Oscar Ozete

October 5, 1939 – February 20, 2023

Oscar Ozete, 83, of Evansville, Indiana, passed away Monday, February 20, 2023 at River Pointe Health Campus.

Oscar was born in Havana, Cuba on October 5, 1939 to the late Magdelena (Perez) and Oscar Ozete, Sr. He earned his doctorate from Indiana University in 1974 . Oscar taught as a Spanish Professor at University of Wisconsin-Madison before accepting a position at University of Southern Indiana in 1980 where he worked until his retirement in 2004. While there, he served as chair of Department of Foreign Languages and was the author or co-author of several top selling text books. Oscar was passionate about Rotary and was a member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church. Recipient of multiple awards, he was named Indiana’s Spanish Professor of the Year in 1994, Distinguished Professor in 1999 at the University of Southern Indiana, and a Sagamore of the Wabash in 2004. He was awarded the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages “Nelson Brooks Award.” Member of numerous professional and service organizations, he was District 6580 Governor of Rotary International. In 2011 he received his District’s highest accolade, the Orphie Bridges Award Honoring a Legacy of Service. Also in 2011, his Rotary Club created in his honor the Oz Award to recognize members for distinguished service.

Oscar is survived by his wife of 54 years, Anita Ozete of Evansville, IN; son, Andrew Ozete (Mary Beth) of Evansville, IN; daughter, Jennifer Cole (Matt) of Evansville, IN; and grandchildren, Alex Ozete, Lauren Ozete, Emily Ozete, Madalyn Cole, and Andrew Cole. His book, ¡Ánimo!: Living in Different Worlds, recalls his efforts to surmount the hurdles of living in two different and bewildering cultures, those of Cuba and the United States. From childhood to grandparenthood, he smoothly moved back and forth in time, sharing the cross-cultural experiences and travel insights that shaped his being.

Oscar was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Oscar’s life will be held at 9:00 am on Saturday, February 25, 2023 at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 5130 Lincoln Ave., Evansville, IN 47715 with Rev. Heather Foley officiating. Please note that the Lincoln Ave. entrance to Aldersgate may be closed due to road construction. If so, it can be accessed from Cullen Avenue. Entombment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Friends may visit from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Friday, February 24, 2023 at Browning Funeral Home, 738 E. Diamond Ave., Evansville, IN 47711.

Memorial contributions may be made to Oscar Ozete Scholarship in care of USI Foundation, 8600 University Blvd., Evansville, IN 47712 or National Parkinson Foundation, 200 SE 1st Street, Ste 800, Miami, FL 33131, USA or Evansville Morning Rotary Club, P.O. Box 5663, Evansville, IN 47716.

Duane Ray Sterling

January 22, 2023

Dr. Duane Ray Sterling, age 85, passed away January 22, 2023 surrounded by his family.
Duane is survived by his wife Pat, three daughters: Allison Ludlam (Chuck), Shannon Pierce (Chris) and Tiffany Sterling (Raul Gutierrez). Six grandchildren: Brook Filis (Kaleb), Chase Ludlam (Mackenzie), Haley Pierce, Sterling Pierce, Liv Gutierrez and Rome Gutierrez. Three great grandchildren: Landry Filis, Cade Ludlam and Charlotte Ludlam.

Duane was born on January 18, 1938, to Raymond Alger and Opal Josephine (McBroom) Sterling in Tipton, Missouri. He graduated from California High School in 1955. Duane attended Central College where he played on the men’s basketball team in Fayette, Missouri. He then chose to join the U.S. Army where he served for three years.
Duane then attended Southwest Missouri State University where he met the love of his life, Patricia Jo Allison. They married on April 20, 1962 and both received their Bachelor of Science in Education degrees in May that year. They moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana where they received their Master of Science in Education degrees from Louisiana State University. Duane continued and completed his Ph.D. in Kinesiology and Zoology from Louisiana State University in 1969. His love of education ran deep.
Duane and Pat arrived in Warrensburg, Missouri in 1965 where Duane was a professor in the physical education department at Central Missouri State University (now University of Central Missouri). He spent time on the coaching staff of the Mules men’s basketball, tennis and golf teams. He then transitioned to administrative roles including Assistant to the Vice President for Administrative Affairs, Assistant to the President and his final position as University Director of Planning, Governmental and Informational Services. Duane concluded his distinguished 32-year career at the University when he retired in 1997.

Duane was a faithful servant to the community. He participated and held leadership roles with the Warrensburg Chamber of Commerce, WAFB Community Council, Missouri Boys State, American Legion, Warrensburg Missouri Sesquicentennial Committee, United Way, Warrensburg First Christian Church, and Jaycees. His love of community ran deep.
In 1970, Duane joined the Warrensburg Rotary club and found a place where he could fulfill his passion for community and service. He was an active member for over 50 years, and expanded into leadership roles that included Club President 1983-84, District Rotarian of the Year 1985, District Governor 1987-88, Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator, Chair of the Rotary Peace Symposium, and General Manager of the Rotary Foundation for Rotary International 1997-2003.

After Duane retired from the University, he followed his passion for the Rotary organization and accepted a full-time position as the General Manager of the Rotary Foundation for Rotary International. Duane and Pat moved to Evanston, Illinois where he served at the Rotary International Headquarters. During his tenure, he impacted the world by helping establish seven International Peace Centers with partnering universities such as Duke, University of North Carolina, and the University of Bradford, England. Since their inception over 1500 students from all over the world have completed a Master’s program or certificate in international development policy, peacekeeping, and conflict resolution. He also continued the fight to eradicate the world of polio through awareness & fundraising campaigns, and bringing vaccines to remote areas of the world. His love of Rotary ran deep.

After Duane’s second retirement, he and Pat moved back to their home in Warrensburg, where they enjoyed their family and friends to the fullest. He enjoyed spending time on family vacations he planned, taking his son-in-laws on fishing trips, watching his grandkid’s sporting and life events, fishing trips with his “Good Ol’ Boy” high school friends, attending UCM events, and celebrating with his family with games, laughter, stories, and so much love. He not only loved traveling the world, he loved his daily trips to Starbucks. His kind and generous spirit allowed him to make amazing connections wherever he went in his life. His love of family and friends ran deep.
Duane’s life was led by his faith in God, the strong love for his family, and the Rotary Four-Way Test. His love, loyalty, friendship, and community contributions will be incredibly missed.

A Celebration of Life for Duane Sterling will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at the Milestones Barn, 380 NW MO-13 Business, Warrensburg, MO 64093. Doors will open at 1pm for visiting with friends and family. The ceremony will begin at 2pm and followed by continued visiting and reminiscing until 4pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in honor of Duane Sterling, to the Kansas City Hospice House, 12000 Wornall Rd, Kansas City, MO 64145. Online contributions can be made to kchospice.org/donation.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Duane Ray Sterling, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

Published by Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home – Warrensburg on Jan. 27, 2023.

Betty Jo Hopson Dulaney

May 15, 1939 – January 18, 2023

Betty Jo Hopson Dulaney died peacefully at home in Tunica, Mississippi, on January 18, 2023. She was surrounded by her devoted husband of more than 64 years, William Proby Dulaney, Sr. (William), and various family members.

She was born in Philadelphia, PA, on May 15, 1939, to Nellie Elizabeth Hopson, and Joseph Schramm, her biological father. Joseph Schramm was killed in World War II. Her mother remarried and thereafter, Claude Thomas Hopson, adopted and raised her as his own. Growing up as a child of a career naval officer resulted in Betty Jo living all over the world, including spending several of her formative years in Guam. These experiences helped shape her life and created a loving, caring young woman with a desire to help others and serve the less fortunate.

Betty Jo graduated from The Philadelphia High School for Girls. She later attended University of Tennessee for a short period of time. She married William on August 9, 1958. After the wedding, she moved to Tunica, Mississippi, and was a lifelong resident. She continued her education and graduated with honors from the University of Memphis. Betty Jo lived a life of service. First and foremost, she led a life of service to Christ, and a very close second, she led a life of service and devotion to her family. She epitomizes a life led in service to others. She was a doer and a participant, rarely ever a spectator – which was a source of embarrassment at time for her children when they were younger, but later became a source of pride and gratitude.

Her civic service includes numerous clubs and organizations. She was a lifelong member of the Episcopal Church (Church of the Epiphany). As part of her Church service and life, she was an active member of the Episcopal Church Women including serving as President of the State of Mississippi. Through this, Betty Jo participated in many domestic as well as international mission trips. She was a longtime member of the Tunica Women’s Club. She was instrumental in its success and being able to grant annual scholarships to many young women of Tunica County. Her service in the local Woman’s Club led to her providing leadership to the organization on state and national level. Betty Jo served as President of the GFWC-Mississippi Federation of Women’s Clubs, Inc. from 1982-1984. There she successfully lobbied for many important state-wide initiatives. She was recognized for her accomplishments including having lunch at The White House with Nancy Reagan.

After her children were grown, she became interested in adult literacy. She was the moving force behind the formation and successful operation of the Tunica County Literary Council, Inc. She served as its director for almost 20 years. The program expanded to provide daycare as she realized the lack of childcare was an obstacle for adults to learn and further their education. Again, her accomplishments and the success of her program were recognized on state and national levels including being named the 2011 Humanitarian of the Year by the MS Head Start Program. As part of her commitment to education, she served as an elected member of the Tunica County School Board. She worked tirelessly to improve the education system for the entire community.

She joined the Rotary Club of Robinsonville as one of its founding members. Like the other organizations she participated in, she gave it her all. Her leadership was recognized, and it was not long before she was Rotary District 6800 Governor. After her term expired, she continued to serve through Rotary including traveling to and administering polio vaccines in Nigeria. She is a Paul Harris Fellow.

Betty Jo served on the Board of Directors of the Northwest Mississippi Community Foundation, Inc. As part of her lifelong dedication to education, she established a permanent fund to support education for children in Mississippi. Betty Jo was named the Margaret Maddox Woman of the Year in 2014.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, William, and her six children, Peter Hopson Dulaney (Ginny), William Proby Dulaney, Jr. (Cheryl), Mary Margaret Dulaney Hurley (Greg), Andrew Thomas Dulaney (Lynn), Joseph Ratcliff Dulaney, Sr. (Kara) and Betty Jo Dulaney, Jr. (Terri). Additionally, she is survived by her sixteen grandchildren, Carley Dulaney Lanuax (Trey), Robyn Dulaney Pela (John Michael), Amanda Dulaney Byrd (Nick), William Proby Dulaney, III (Lauren), Kathleen Dulaney Estes (John), Christine Dulaney Tomlinson (JR), Gregory John Hurley, Jr. (Mila), Alexander Hopson Hurley, Nicholas Dulaney Hurley, Mary Quinn Dulaney Myers (Tolly), Andrew Thomas Dulaney, Jr., Laura Ainsley Dulaney, Joseph Ratcliff Dulaney, II, Ameliea Rose Dulaney, Isabelle Beatrice Dulaney, William Montgomery Dulaney, and a host of great-grandchildren.

Visitation is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Saturday, January 21, 2023, at Epiphany Episcopal Church, 1061 Shady Lane, Tunica, MS 38676, with the funeral to follow at 11:00 a.m.

Freed Hutto Duncan, Jr.

1935 – 2023

Freed Hutto Duncan, Jr., born November 25, 1935, in England, Ark., to Myrl and Freed H. Duncan, Sr., went to be with the Lord on January 1, 2023.

Freed is preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Gail; his parents; granddaughter, Lauren Dunn, and grandson, Clayton Otwell. He is survived by two sons, Ted Duncan (Dayna) of Maumelle, and Mitch Duncan (Lori) of Springdale; two daughters, Danette Dunn (Craig), and Sandra Duncan-Reese (Chris), both of Conway; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two sisters, Janis Lindley, and Ann Wood (Jim); two brothers, Wayne Duncan (Linda), and Larry Duncan (Sharon).

Freed loved his church family at Second Baptist Conway where he was a deacon and Sunday School teacher.

Freed was raised by his parents in Augusta, Ark., where he graduated high school.

Freed went on to a career in the Army followed by a decades long career with AP&L/Entergy. He was active in his community, supporting a number of charitable organizations and enthusiastically serving in the Rotary Club of Conway.

Freed especially enjoyed his extended family, his relationship with the Lord, golfing with his many friends and following the Arkansas Razorbacks.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m., Saturday, January 7, 2023, at Second Baptist Church in Conway, Ark. A visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Friday, January 6, 2023, at Second Baptist Church in Conway, Ark. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Conway.

Pallbearers will be Freed’s grandsons; Jordan Dunn, Britton Dunn, Alex Dunn, Sam Duncan, Tyler Duncan, and Corbin Otwell. Honorary Pallbearers will be Freed’s Sunday School Class.

In lieu of flowers the Duncan family requests that you give in memory of Freed, to:
Rotary International; rotary.org/en/donate or Second Baptist Church, 2600 Dave Ward Drive, Conway, Ark. 72034; mysecond.family/give/

Jacqueline “Jacque” Howard

January 13, 2023

Robert W. Shoemaker Jr.

October 3, 1921 – December 20, 2022

After a full life of giving, serving, learning, traveling, and loving, Robert W. Shoemaker, Jr. “Bob” passed away peacefully on December 20, 2022 at the age of 101 years and 2 1/2 months. The only child of Robert W. Shoemaker, Sr. (1898-1968) and Irene English Shoemaker (1900-1988), Bob was born on October 3, 1921, in New Philadelphia, Ohio, and moved to Anderson in 1935. Following his time in college, graduate school, and the United States Navy, he chose to reside, build a business, serve the community, and raise his family in Anderson.

Bob was predeceased in January 2018 by his beloved wife of almost 68 years, Mary Ann (Gephardt). He is survived by four children: Robert III of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania; Ann of Anderson; Sara (husband, Bran) McFarland of Fishers and North Webster; and Janet (husband, Mark) Rutan of Lafayette and Cicero. Also surviving are ten grandchildren and spouses: Jarrod (Alicia) Shoemaker, Jenna Parker, Martha (Alan) Murphy, Jacob (Julia) Shoemaker. Danielle (Sam) Willis, Alexander (Tiffany) Smith, Reed (Miriam) Smith, Neil (Erin) Rutan, Craig (Kara) Rutan, and Luke (Keely) Rutan. His eleven great-grandchildren are Finn and Parker Murphy; Elliott Willis; London and Livia Smith; Scarlett, Elias, and Malachi Smith; and Nolan, Norah, and Claire Rutan. In addition, Bob leaves behind two nieces and three nephews, as well as several cousins. His beloved son-in-law Jeffrey Smith (Sara) tragically died in 2015.

After graduating from Anderson High School in 1939, Bob traveled east to attend Harvard College with the Class of 1943. Due to an interruption for World War II military service and related changes in educational programs, he earned two graduate degrees from Harvard Business School (Class of 1947), including an MBA, before receiving his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Government from Harvard College in 1947. While at Harvard, Bob enjoyed rowing lightweight crew and House crew for several years and volunteering with the college radio station WHRB. After graduation, he attended college class reunions regularly, assisted the Admissions Office by interviewing central Indiana applicants for many years, and maintained life-long friendships with many classmates.

Bob was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Naval Reserve in 1942 and attended officers’ training programs in the Bronx, NY, and Washington, D.C, before being assigned to the Naval Mine Warfare Test Station at Solomons Island, MD, where he served as Naval personnel officer. After requesting a shipboard assignment, Bob was transferred to the Pacific for duty aboard the escort aircraft carrier U.S.S. Corregidor (CVE-58) as Lieutenant Junior Grade and Signal Officer until the ship’s decommissioning after the war in 1946. Following his return to Anderson in 1947, Bob remained active in the U.S. Naval Reserve Division 9-31, commanded by Tom McMahan, who was later Mayor of Anderson. His reserve duty ended in December 1951 at the rank of Lieutenant Senior Grade and Division Commanding Officer.

In 1949, Bob and his parents purchased Short Printing, Inc., then located on 20th Street near Fairview Street. He successfully operated the business as President for almost five decades, which included building a larger new facility on Madison Avenue in 1961 and changing the name to Business Printing, Inc. He retired and sold the business in 2000.

Guided by a kind heart, a generous spirit, and a desire to improve any organization in which he participated. Bob became actively involved in community service following his 1947 return to Anderson. Perhaps the seeds were planted during his youth as a Boy Scout. While attending the 1937 National Boy Scout Jamboree in Washington DC, Bob received his Eagle Scout award and then sailed overseas to participate in the 1937 World Jamboree in the Netherlands and to travel around Europe. Later, after Harvard and the Navy, Bob became Scoutmaster of a local troop in Anderson and Skipper of a Sea Scout ship. He progressed to hold a variety of district and council leadership positions in Scouting over many years and in 1963 was honored with the Silver Beaver Award for distinguished service to Scouting as an adult leader.

Bob obtained his amateur radio license in 1946 with call sign W9MTU and enjoyed communicating with his father on road trips and with other “hams” around the world. As a result of that hobby, he was asked in 1952 to organize amateur radio communications for the Madison County Civil Defense, which led to his appointment as County Civil Defense Director, a position he held for 12 years. This period witnessed rising tensions with the Soviet Union and the threat of nuclear attacks, including the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. As CD Director, Bob gave many educational slide presentations regarding proper preparations in the face of nuclear threats, oversaw the selection and stocking of emergency fallout shelters throughout the county, and helped organize the conversion of the old Lindbergh School north of town into a CD emergency command headquarters. His slide show included photos taken in his capacity as an official observer at the Yucca Flats, Nevada nuclear test in 1955. Later Bob was invited by NASA to Cape Canaveral to observe the launch of Apollo 8, which carried astronauts into orbit around the moon for the first time, and the Apollo 15 moon mission launch.

Bob’s volunteer contributions also included active involvement in the local business community. He served eight years as a Director of the Indiana Manufacturers Association, Chairman of the IMA Insurance Committee, Vice-President of the Anderson Chamber of Commerce, and Director and Treasurer of the Anderson YMCA. In 1955, the Junior Chamber of Commerce honored him as Anderson’s Young Man of the Year. For 20 years, Bob served as a Director of First Savings and Loan Association of Central Indiana, and for the last several years, he acted as Chairman of the Board. A long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church of Anderson, Bob served as an Elder, a member of the Whitewater Valley Presbytery Council, and President and Vice-President of the Presbytery. He also wrote and published a pictorial history of the First Presbyterian Church for the 150th anniversary commemoration in 2001.

For more than 70 years, the major volunteer beneficiary of Bob’s time, talent, and energy was Rotary International (“RI”). Following his induction as member of the Anderson Rotary Club in 1948, he took on a variety of roles, and for one 60-year period, he maintained perfect attendance. As the Club’s first history chairman, Bob produced a publication in 1963 that included photos of every Club member over the years. While Club President in 1965-66, he organized the first Interact Club for high school students and soon thereafter chaired the 50th Anniversary Committee in 1967-68. That effort resulted in an updated bound history and two celebratory dinners with special speakers, one involving Herb Taylor, past President of RI and author of the Four-Way Test, and one with NASA astronaut Al Worden, who later flew on Apollo 15.

In 1970-71, Bob was asked to serve as the Rotary District’s first Youth Exchange Officer, which required him to organize a program from scratch. The following year he served as District Governor, overseeing the creation of the first District Directory, the chartering of the first new club in the district in 15 years, the first seminar for incoming Club Presidents, and a program to encourage Paul Harris Fellows, a fund-raising initiative honoring the founder of Rotary’s first club. In early 1972 Bob and seven other District Governors met to form the Central States Youth Exchange, and soon thereafter he began arranging student exchanges with South American nations. He became Chairman of CSYE in 1976, serving for 12 years, during which time the program expanded to include many more Rotary Clubs and Districts, the summer conference attendance rose to 1100, yearly exchanges increased to 325, additional bus tours were arranged for inbound students, and financial stability was achieved.

With this successful experience, Bob was asked to serve as Chairman of the International Youth Activities Committee during 1978-79 and then was elected as one of 17 RI Directors for 1979-81. Throughout the 1980’s, he chaired various RI and Zone committees coordinating youth activities, world service projects, volunteers in action, and special study groups. Three times Bob served on committees that nominated RI Presidents, and for ten years he chaired the committee that succeeded in bringing the RI Convention to Indianapolis in 1998. In addition, Bob has represented the District on the RI Council on Legislation three times, including the session that voted to allow female membership. Over time he has attended 21 International Conventions and 60 District Conferences, and he has represented the RI President at 25 District Conferences in seven countries. Primarily because of the opportunities available through his Rotary duties, Bob has traveled to 45 countries on five continents. During his Rotary travels, he and Mary Ann enjoyed the honor of meeting Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa. In tribute to his efforts, Bob was honored with the Anderson Club’s Ideal of Service Award and “Rotarian of the Century” Award and was often referred to as “Mr. Rotary.”

Though Bob was devoted to service activities, family was always his priority, and he never seemed to be missing at the dinner table each evening. He organized many family vacation trips with Mary Ann and his children to various U.S. destinations. In particular, the annual August vacation week at Hunky Dory Farms Resort in Wisconsin was an extended family tradition for almost 50 years. Later in life, he and Mary Ann traveled regularly to participate in their children’s and grandchildren’s family events and enjoyed time at their home on Lake Webster in northern Indiana.

Bob’s mind remained sharp until the end, and his ability to recall people, places, events, and details from every era of his life was truly extraordinary. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning new things, meeting new people, taking advantage of special opportunities, and traveling widely were contagious personality traits. “Always ask more questions” was one of his guiding principles. Toward that end, Bob devotedly remained connected to many friends and relatives throughout the world, primarily by written letter in his younger years and by e-mail as that service became available more recently. Among Bob’s hobbies and interests were amateur radio, fishing, rowing and canoeing, reading, history, and photography. Through slides, home movies, videos, and cell phone images, he (and his father before him) compiled a remarkable visual history of his life and the life of his family from the 1920’s to the current century. His many slides and movies taken during the 1937 Jamboree trips provide a fascinating glimpse of life in Washington DC and Europe before the tragic onset of World War II.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations may be directed to the Rotary Foundation to aid in its worldwide humanitarian efforts, 14280 Collection Center Drive, Chicago, IL 60693 or to the Robert W. Shoemaker, Jr. Youth Exchange Scholarship Fund (c/o Joe Sawyer, Treasurer, Central States Rotary Youth Exchange, 222 S. Norton Street, Corunna MI 48817) to provide scholarships for financially needy inbound and outbound exchange students.

Burial will be private. A memorial service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held at Brown-Butz-Diedring Funeral Service & Crematory in Anderson at a date to be determined in January.

William E. Ruse

December 3, 1934 ~ August 30, 2022

William E. Ruse (Bill), 87, died on Tuesday, August 30th in the early afternoon at the Bridge Hospice Care Center.

Born Dec. 3, 1934, to Mary and Ollie Ruse in Cleveland, Ohio.

He is survived by wife Donna; daughter Rebecca and husband Steve; son Robert and wife Bretta and three grandchildren Olivia and husband Tim, Abigail, and Sophia.
He is preceded in death by his twin brother John, his parents Mary and Ollie, and his son William.

Bill had a distinguished career in healthcare administration, teaching, and writing, and active throughout the community in various organizations and committees.

In 1957 Mr. Ruse started his career as a staff pharmacist and subsequently chief pharmacist at Lima Memorial Hospital in Lima, Ohio. In 1960, he joined the staff of Blanchard Valley Hospital in Findlay, Ohio where he served as Chief Pharmacist, Director of Personnel and Purchasing, Assistant Administrator and subsequently, chief executive in 1964. Served as President and CEO of the Blanchard Valley Health Association, a parent corporation of Blanchard Valley Hospital formed in 1984.

Bill Ruse is President Emeritus of the Blanchard Valley Health Association headquartered in Findlay, Ohio. Bill retired from Blanchard Valley in 2001 after serving as its President and CEO for 36 years.

During Bill Ruse’s tenure with the Blanchard Valley Hospital/Blanchard Valley Health Association, Bill and his team, Board and Medical Staff went from a single hospital to the System of two acute care hospitals (Findlay and Bluffton, Ohio), Nursing Home, Home Health services, Hospice services plus an in-patient Hospice unit, Indigent Care Clinic, and Occupational Medicine Division; one of Ohio’s largest regional healthcare systems.

Following his retirement, he served as a member of Adjunct Faculty in the College of Business and College of Pharmacy at the University of Findlay; a founding owner and Board Member – Buckeye State Bank; a founding Member – Creative Solutions Enterprises – Maximizing asset utilization for small and mid-sized colleges and universities and small business; and as the founder, President and CEO – Ultra Seniors, LLC. which keeps those who have outlived the average longevity in the US, active and engaged.

A Rotarian since 1983 and a past member of the Findlay Rotary Club, Bill had served as the Clubs President and chaired the Past President’s Committee. Following two terms as an Assistant Governor of Rotary International, Bill served his three terms as Chairperson of the Assistant Governors Committee and on July 1,2004 became the Governor for Rotary’s District 6600 (67 clubs) for the 2003/2004 Rotary year. And, in 2022, he started the Ultra Seniors Online Rotary Club.

He was committed to the Community and giving back. He was a long time member of St. Michael Parish; a Past Member – Commercial Savings Bank – Upper Sandusky, OH; University of Findlay – Findlay, OH – Trustee Emeritus; past member of Executive and Business Affairs Committee and Chair Compensation Committee, College of Business Healthcare Management Advisory Board and College of Pharmacy Advisory Board; Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce – Past Chair; Findlay-Hancock County Community Development Foundation – Past Chair; Findlay-Hancock County Foundation – Past Chair; Findlay Development LLC; Buckeye State Bank – 2014 to present, Member, Executive Committee; Past Member – Ohio Hospital Association; Hancock County Agency on Aging; Hancock Historical Museum – Chair; and Ultra Seniors – Founder, President and CEO.

Bill was a recipient of numerous awards and recognitions throughout his distinguished career; as well as a seasoned author of countless articles and professional journals and ten books. One of his books was even co-authored with his three granddaughters.

A graduate of Collinwood High School – Cleveland, Ohio – 1953; Ohio Northern University – Ada, Ohio – BSc. In Pharmacy, 1957; Xavier University – Cincinnati, Ohio – MBA in Hospital Administration, 1963; University of Toledo – Doctor of Jurisprudence – 1972; University of Findlay – Honorary Doctor of Health Care Management – 1997; and Ohio Northern University – Honorary Doctor of Public Service – 2003. He was a licensed attorney since 1972, a licensed pharmacist -1957 – 2000.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 3, 2022, at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 750 Bright Road, Findlay. Monsignor Michael Hohenbrink Celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Michael Cemetery, Findlay.

Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00 p.m., Friday at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 750 Bright Road, Findlay.

Arrangements are being handled by COLDREN-CRATES FUNERAL HOME, Findlay.

Memorial contributions may be given to: Blanchard Valley Hospital Foundation; Rotary International Foundation; Ohio Northern University Foundation; Xavier University Foundation; University of Toledo Foundation; University of Findlay Foundation; and/or Bridge Home Health and Hospice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.coldrencrates.com.

Gene Austin Whitmer

December 3, 1929 – September 12, 2022

Gene Austin Whitmer, age 92, a resident of Chillicothe, Missouri, passed away on Monday, September 12, 2022, at North Kansas City Hospital, North Kansas City, Missouri.

Gene was born in a country home near Hamilton, Missouri, during a snowstorm on December 3, 1929, the son of Milbern and Juanita Whitmer. He grew up on the farm and attended Lovely Ridge Elementary School through the 8th Grade. He graduated from Hamilton High School in May of 1947. While in high school, he was on the committee that founded the Missouri State Student Council Association. Gene received his Bachelor’s Degree with a major in Mathematics and minor in Science from Northwest Missouri State College in Maryville, Missouri, in August of 1951. He received his Masters of Secondary Education from the University of Missouri-Columbia in August of 1955. Later, he received his Secondary School Specialist Degree also from the University of Missouri.

Gene spent 39 years in the Field of Education; two years (1951-1953) teaching high school math and science at Osborn, Missouri, from 1951 until 1953, and then eleven years teaching advanced math classes and serving as administrative assistant to the Superintendent and Principal for the Trenton R-IX School System from 1953 until 1964. During this time, he also served as Sponsor of the Student Council. The next thirteen years, from 1964 until 1977, were spent in Richmond, Missouri, where he served as High School Principal. Gene finished his career in the Chillicothe R-II Schools, serving as Assistant Superintendent from 1977 until 1990. Gene served in the United States Army Air Force from 1948 until 1949, and 6 years in the Reserves: receiving his honorable discharge in 1955.

Gene was united in marriage to Ellen Dee Shadduck of Cameron, Missouri, at the Methodist Church in Cameron, on August 6, 1950.

Gene was very community minded – serving on many committees: he was a lifetime member of the United Methodist Church; serving as Administrative Council Chairman, Board of Trustees, Staff Parish, Finance and Property committees, Co-chaired the promotion for the UMC 2000 “Build the Vision” Building Project, Co-Lay leader of the congregation, Captain of the UMC Relay-For-Life-Team, Member of United Methodist Men, Helped deliver Meals on Wheels as well as Meals for the Livingston County Multi-Purpose Senior Center, for 26 years. He served the City as Councilman-at-Large and various committees related to the position, Initial promoter of downtown beautification projects while on the city council, founding donor for YMCA, member of Chillicothe Chamber of Commerce, Chambers Ambassadors’ Club, Tri chaired the committee to save the Green Hills Public Golf Course, promoted the building of the new Chillicothe R-II High School and other building improvements. Gene served on the Hope Haven Board, Livingston County Historical Board, Camp Rainbow, Blood Donor Drives, He enjoyed a long tenure with Rotary International – serving as President of the Chillicothe and Richmond Clubs; District 6030 Governor of Rotary International; President of Livingston County Retired Teachers Association.

Gene loved spending time with his family; especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed everything outdoors from gardening to yard work. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and golfer. He seldom missed any of the grandchildren’s activities, such as ballgames, track, wrestling, music concerts or dance recitals. He and his wife, Ellen enjoyed traveling together.

Gene is survived by his wife, Ellen, of 72 years; two daughters, Mary Ellen Kincaid (Dowell) and Terri Jean Figg (Troy) of Chillicothe; six grandchildren, Scott Austin Kincaid (Laura) of Ames, Iowa, Staci Marie Kincaid Wright (Nate) of Roeland Park, Kansas, Travis Ryan Figg (Meghann) of Columbia Missouri, Trent Andrew Figg (Tori) of Eugene, Oregon, Taryn Nicole Figg Schumacher (Cody) of Keller, Texas, and Ty Colton Figg (Lillian) of Columbia, Missouri; fourteen great grandchildren, Leah Jeanine Kincaid, Austin Michael Kincaid, Cole Daniel Kincaid, and Jenna Grace Kincaid, of Ames, Iowa, Andrew Kamden Wright, Anna Catherine Wright, of Roeland Park, Kansas, Avery Ryan Figg, Wesley Wilson Figg, Bowen Christopher Figg, of Columbia, Missouri, Titus Reid Figg, Thomas Pierce Figg, Tobias Andrew Figg, of Eugene, Oregon, and Brynlee Nicole Schumacher, Bennett Mack Schumacher, of Keller, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents and infant brother.

Funeral services will be held at the United Methodist Church, Chillicothe, Missouri, on Friday, September 16, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. A scheduled visitation will be held at the United Methodist Church, Chillicothe, Missouri, on Friday, September 16, 2022, one hour prior to the service at 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Friends may call at the Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri, on Thursday, September 15, 2022, from 12 noon until 7:00 p.m. Burial will be held at Edgewood Cemetery, Chillicothe, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to House of Prayer and/or Chillicothe Rotary Foundation and may be left at or mailed to Lindley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 47, Chillicothe, Missouri 64601. Online condolences may be made at www.lindleyfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri.

John D. Kurfess

November 3, 1937 – August 18, 2022

John Kurfess, 84, left this earth for eternal life on August 18, 2022. He was born in Wood County on November 3, 1937 and has been a lifetime resident of the Perrysburg area. John was a graduate of Troy Luckey High School, now known as Eastwood High School. He was a three-year veteran of the U.S. Navy with active duty from 1955 – 1958 completing two U.S. Navy Class A service schools. John’s career included 18 years in production agriculture, owning and operating a dairy and contract tomato growing business for Heinz and Hunt processing companies. His second career was as owner and President of Valleybrook Realty, Inc., a real estate and small development company.

Throughout John’s life, he enjoyed a wide variety of civic and social membership activities. He served on the Board of Trustees for The Greater Toledo YMCA as founder and Charter President of the Northern Wood County YMCA. John also served as Trustee for the Perrysburg Arts Council and President of the Perrysburg Symphony Board of Trustees. As a 45-year charter member of the Perrysburg Rotary Club, he served on various boards and committees and became President of the Perrysburg Rotary Club in 1989 – 1990 and Rotary District 6600 Governor in 1995 – 1996. During John’s Rotary involvement, he was very active in MESA (Medical Equipment and Supplies Abroad) and served as the corporation’s Board President in 1997 – 1998. John visited all seven countries in Central America numerous times to help participating Central American Rotary Clubs distribute medical equipment including fire trucks and ambulances. John’s four sons traveled with him in the work of Rotary International Service. John was a member of The American Legion Post 240 and was also designated Perrysburg Area Chamber of Commerce Business Citizen of the Year in 1998.
John was a born leader and loved adventure, whether it be boating, classic car rides, special holiday events or trying exotic foods.

Left to cherish his memory are his significant other, Ruth Glanzman, John’s sons Brian (Sandra), Mark (Beverlee), Michael and Eric, as well as his sister, Dr. Nancy Johnson, brother, Charles (Helyn) Kurfess, and sister-in-law Mary (Jim), grandchildren Ryan (Emily), Brittney, Ashley, John, Jordan, Joshua, Justin, and Sydney, great grandchildren Harmony, Mycah, Megan, and Tyler, mothers of John’s sons Mary Susan Kurfess and Carol Kurfess, extended family and friends and faithful companion, Riley. He was preceded in death by his parents, John F. and Margaret Kurfess, and his brother, James.

Family and friends will be received 10 a.m., to 12 p.m., on Saturday, August 27, 2022 with a Funeral Service at 12 p.m., at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 5520 Fremont Pike Perrysburg, OH. Rev. Mike Hughes will officiate. John will be laid to rest in Troy Township Cemetery at a family committal service. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes any contributions be sent to Medical Equipment and Supplies Abroad Foundation Inc., 1092 Bending Brook Lane, Waterville, Ohio 43566-1612 or St. John’s Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 279, 5520 Fremont Pike, Stony Ridge, Ohio 43463.

Those wishing to express a word of encouragement, share a memory or photo may do so at: www.marshfuneralhomes.com

Steve Sorenson

March 6, 1956 ~ August 20, 2022

Steve Sorenson, 66, of Fowler, Indiana, passed away on Saturday, August 20, 2022 in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Steve was born March 6, 1956 to the late Ross and Betty Sorenson.

Steve is survived by close friends, extended family, and a loving community. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Betty Sorenson.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 29, 2022 at 1:00pm (EST) at First Presbyterian Church in Fowler, Indiana with visitation from 11:00am (EST) until the funeral hour. Burial at Fowler Cemetery with refreshments to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Fowler Rotary Club.

Arrangements entrusted to Gerts, Windler & Keller Funeral Homes ~ Fowler Chapel. 506 E. Main St., Fowler, IN 47944. (765) 884-0110. www.kellerfh.com

John (Jack) A Young

May 16, 1947 – August 20, 2022

John “Jack” A. Young, 75, of Brunswick, OH, died peacefully on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at Heritage Senior Living in Marysville, OH.

After graduating from Marietta High School in 1965, he attended Bliss College where he received his bachelor’s degree in business. He earned two master’s degrees in human resource management and health care administration from Central Michigan University. In 1969, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Colorado, California, Iceland, and Oklahoma, where he was honorably discharged as Staff Sergeant.

Employed in human resource management positions throughout his career, he was also founder and administrator for The Villa at the Lake, an assisted living facility in Conneaut, OH. He also served on many professional service organizations from which he received many distinguished honors.

Long-time Rotarian Jack Young, since 1995, who received the highest award that can be given in Rotary, the “Service above Self” award and the prestigious Scouting Silver Wheel Award for his leadership as the Chair for the Inter-American Region for the Fellowship of Scouting, was recently honored with the silver level of the President’s Volunteer Service Award for his work with ShelterBox USA.

The national award was created in 2003 to recognize those who contribute a significant amount of time to volunteer activities. Young was nominated by those at ShelterBox, who have worked to provide shelter and supplies to more than 210,000 people in 17 countries affected by natural disaster. Aid comes in the form of family-sized tents and essential tools to repair and rebuild homes, as well as items to use in a shelter, such as cooking sets, solar lights, blankets, and water.

Young said giving back is in his blood, with his family showing him the importance of service as his father was a firefighter and his mother was a secretary of the First Congregational Church in Marietta, Ohio.

He was also on the board of American Nicaragua International Hope and Relief Foundation and has been to Chinnendega, Nicaragua, 11 times and seen children living out of a garbage dump. We don’t know what poverty is in the U.S. We go there and deliver shoe boxes, which are the only Christmas presents these kids get. The program was founded by a Rotarian to see if we could help kids get an education. We get a shoebox and fill it with a toy and school supplies. I’ve been on that board since 2007.

Education: Marietta High School Class of 1965; attended Marietta College; Bachelors Degree in business from Bliss College; Double Masters Degree in Labor Relations and Health Care Administration from Central Michigan University.

The son of Charles E. Young and Vera Haug Young, he was born in Marietta, OH on May 16, 1947. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Donald Hayes Young. Jack is survived by three children: Melissa (Eric) Yinger, Emily Williams, and Michael (Holly) Young; grandchildren: Kaleb Jolliff, Kameron Young, Cole Young, Zachary Young, Wyatt Williams, Kyleigh Luke, and Mason Luke; nephew Mitchell Young and niece Shelley Forsythe; sister-in law Sarah Young; former spouse, Ann Young; and his beloved dog, Zoey.

Burial with military honors will be held in Oak Grove Cemetery in Marietta, Ohio, on September 10th at noon.

The family asks that donations be made to either of these organizations

ShelterBox USA
www.ShelterBoxUSA.org
Call 941-907-6036
Please reference in memory of Jack Young, Rotary District 6630

or

ViaQuest Hospice
171 Morey Dr. Suite B
Marysville, OH 43040
Please reference in memory of Jack Young

Ingram Funeral Home of Marysville, is honored to serve Jack’s family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.IngramFuneralService.com. Jack’s family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the nurses and staff at Heritage Senior Living of Marysville, as well as ViaQuest and Jill Johnson for their care and compassion.

Ronnie Valdez

August 17, 2022

Ronnie Valdez passed away Wednesday, Aug. 17, after a long battle with diabetes.

Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Valdez was a well-known businessman in Enid who started several businesses during his lifetime. He opened his first business at the age of 20 and later purchased a vending company in Del Rio, Texas.

He had a successful career in the oil business leading him from Carrizo Springs, Texas, to Wakita, where he worked for Sun Oil Co., which later became Oryx Oil Co.

He moved to Enid where he opened Indian Hills Auto Wash, a full-service car wash on West Garriott. He then opened Goldie’s Patio Grill on East Garriott. In 1988, he purchased Heritage Cleaners, later expanding to the Oklahoma City market, purchasing Nuway Cleaners with locations in Oklahoma City, Midwest City and Moore. At the time of his death, he still owned two Heritage Cleaners locations in Enid, one on Randolph and one on Willow.

In 2008, he sold Indian Hills Auto Wash, but in 2009 he got the car wash back and renamed it Ocean Blue Carwash. He later sold the property to Aqua Wash.

It was through Enid Rotary that his heart for public service took hold. He was a president of Enid Rotary Club from 2002-03 and Rotary District Governor of District 5750 from 2005-2006. He served as assistant district governor for three years, including a year as assistant to the late Irv Honigsberg, of Enid.

Fellow Rotarian David Morley remembers Valdez as a huge proponent of serving the community.

“He worked very hard at the district level and was very active in going to visit other clubs,” Morley said. “He really demonstrated and lived out the Rotary motto of service above self.”

With his help, Enid Rotary Club started Math Mania, a popular program on PEGASYS. He also led the club to full membership in the Every Year Every Rotarian program, that led each club member to pledge at least $100 to the Rotary Foundation every year. This money is used to fund local programs and those around the world to help better people’s lives.

During his tenure as District 5750 governor, he was responsible for 40 clubs and 2,000 Rotarians in and around Oklahoma City and Northwest Oklahoma. He helped more clubs in the district sign up to be sustaining clubs, with each member giving annually to the Rotary Foundation.

Valdez volunteered many hours to the Enid High School DECA Association, for which he was awarded an honorary lifetime membership in the Oklahoma DECA program. DECA is an association for marketing students and focuses on professional development and business for high school students. He helped mentor students as they prepared for their regional, state and national DECA competitions. He accompanied the Enid DECA chapter to several national competitions, where he served as a national judge.

He was raised and educated in San Antonio. Traveling with his father’s Air Force career, he graduated from Del Rio High School with the class of 1973. He and his wife, Gwen Gibson, were married in July 1975 at his parent’s home in Del Rio. They celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary this summer.

They raised their three daughters, Kristi, Cammi and Ashley, in Enid. He is also survived by a grandson, Gibson.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Dale F. McKee

January 22, 1936 ~ June 26, 2022

Dale F. McKee, 86, died Sunday morning, June 26, 2022, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Carmel. He was born January 22, 1936, to Clyde M. and Gertrude E. (McKean) McKee in Merom, Indiana. After family moves from Merom, he attended public school in Mulberry, Indiana, before moving to Sheridan, Indiana, prior to his high school senior year. He was graduated from Sheridan High School in 1954.

He thereafter enrolled at Indiana State College (now Indiana State University) where he earned a baccalaureate degree in education in 1957. He later earned a M.A. degree at ISU in 1960. He was conferred an Ed.D. Degree by Indiana University in 1975. He was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity.

He met Nancy Jane Lehr while growing up in Mulberry. Their first date occurred on Dale’s 16th birthday and they were together thereafter, dating as each completed high school and pursued college education. They were married on September 8, 1956. They had been married more than 62 years when Nancy died on January 2, 2019.

Dale’s professional career began as a teacher and coach at Jefferson High School near Frankfort, Indiana, in 1957. He accepted a teaching and coaching position at Sheridan for the 1961-62 school year and then started a brief career in school administration at Carlisle (IN) High School in 1962. He then accepted the high school principal appointment at Rockville (IN) High School from 1963 to 1965.

On July 1, 1965, Dale began a 33-year career at Indiana State, first as assistant alumni director and then assuming duties as Director of Alumni Affairs in 1966 and remaining in that position until 1981. He then became the Executive Director of the Indiana State University Foundation (later, Executive Vice President of the Foundation and Acting Vice President for University Advancement) where he served the university until retirement effective in June 1998.

Dale and Nancy lived in Terre Haute for nearly 50 years. Among Dale’s community activities were service on the boards of United Way of the Wabash Valley, Wabash Valley Goodwill Industries, Hospice of the Wabash Valley, and the Wabash Valley Council of Boy Scouts of America. He joined the Rotary Club of Terre Haute in 1965 (later honored with status as an honorary life member) and served in leadership capacities throughout that affiliation, including service as Club President in 1983-84, Club Secretary, and District Governor of District 6580 in 1989-90. He was honored multiple times as a Paul Harris Fellow.

Dale and Nancy were longtime members of Central Presbyterian Church where Dale served as an elder, deacon, and trustee. After moving to Carmel, Indiana, in 2015, they joined Second Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis.

Dale’s long career at ISU was a source of pride and recognition. Both Dale and Nancy were honored with the University Medallion for Exceptional Service and Dedication in 1997 and served as homecoming grand marshals in 1998. Dale’s dedication to the university and its annual fund-raising efforts was recognized in 2019 when the ISU Foundation established the Dale McKee Society, a recognition for donors who make recurring annual gifts to the University.

In 2010, Dale and Nancy established the McKee Nursing Center on the ISU campus as a resource for nursing students in recognition of Nancy’s long ISU career in nursing education. They established the Nancy and Dale McKee Family Scholarship for ISU students in 2006. Dale and his family made additional gifts to Indiana State in 2021 to support the university’s President’s Scholars program. The McKee Family Heritage Lounge at Tirey Hall was renamed to honor their support.

After retirement in 1998, Dale and Nancy lived at Sun Lakes, AZ, during the winter months and traveled extensively throughout the United States with focus on presidential libraries and national parks.

Survivors are a son, Craig M. McKee, and his wife, Diann E. McKee, of Terre Haute; a daughter, Elizabeth A. McKee, of Carmel; and a son, Christopher J. McKee, of Carmel.

A memorial service is scheduled at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 7, 2022, at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis. The Rev. Brian Shivers will officiate. Family members will greet friends and guests in the church’s parlor from 9 a.m. until the service begins. To view a livestream of the service please click here. The family also will greet friends and guests from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday, July 8, 2022, at the McKee Family Heritage Lounge, Tirey Hall, 220 N. 7th Street, Terre Haute, on the ISU campus. A private inurnment at Second Presbyterian Church will be conducted at a later date.

The family encourages friends to consider supporting the important work of Indiana State University in lieu of sending flowers. Gifts in memory of Dale will support the McKee Family Scholarship, the proceeds of which support higher education opportunities for non-freshman undergraduate students, and may be sent to: Indiana State University Foundation, 30 N. 5th Street, Terre Haute, IN 47809 (or online at www.indstate.edu/give)

Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.flannerbuchanan.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Flanner Buchanan – Carmel.

Dr. M Olin Cook

January 21, 1933 – May 4, 2022

Dr. M. Olin Cook, age 89, of Russellville died Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center. He was born January 21, 1933, in Preston, Mississippi to Milton Chester and Rosie Mae Fulton Cook.

Olin was a servant leader who dedicated his life to his family, career, church, and community. He began his career in education as a high school math teacher and accepted an opportunity at the Arkansas Department of Higher Education after receiving his Doctor of Administration of Higher Education at Auburn University. During these years, Olin and his family made their home in North Little Rock, where he established life-long friendships as he worked tirelessly in his field and volunteered in community outreach, particularly at Lakewood United Methodist Church.

Olin continued to serve students and advocate for educational opportunities through his leadership at Arkansas Tech University in Russellville. While nurturing the University community, he also dedicated his time and effort to a wide range of local, statewide, and national organizations, including Russellville First United Methodist Church, the River Valley Arts Center, the Democratic Party of Pope County, Rotary International, the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church.

In retirement, he was honored to work for the residents of Pope County while serving as an Arkansas State Representative and chairing the House Education Committee.

Throughout his life, Olin consistently sought ways to empower and engage others. He cultivated relationships everywhere he went and generously carved out time for conversation and laughter. He was always ready to offer a helping hand and donate support.

He and Millicent routinely and joyfully welcomed others into their home and modeled family values, hospitality, and generosity for their children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Millicent Cook; a brother, Nolin Cook; and a sister, Opal Cook.

Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Kim and Randy West and Leslie and Patrick Rhode, all of Dripping Springs, Texas; a brother, Grady Cook; and his grandchildren, Garrett and spouse, Pilar Jones of Burien, Washington, Connor Jones of Austin, Texas, Chelsea West of Austin, Texas, Anna Rhode, and Philip Rhode, both of Dripping Springs, Texas.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, May 27, 2022, at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Tony Griffin officiating. A private burial for the family will be held in Oakland Cemetery and under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church.

His education legacy continues through the Olin and Millicent Cook Scholarship, which makes annual awards to high school and college students. Contributions can be made to Russellville First United Methodist Church, 304 S. Commerce Avenue, Russellville, Arkansas, 72801.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.shinnfuneral.com.

Donald R. Shaffner

August 10, 1940 – March 21, 2022

Don was born and raised in East St. Louis. He graduated from East St. Louis High School and completed a B.S. Degree in Elementary Education with a Masters in Supervision at Illinois State Normal University.

Don was an educator since 1962. He had worked with Elementary, Junior, Senior High and Special Education Students. He served as coordinator of off-campus education for the Granite City Public Schools for 21 years starting that program from scratch in 1973. Don retired from public education in June 1994 after 32 years.

He served as President and was a member of the Granite City Rotary Club from 1973-1995 after which he joined the Collinsville Rotary Club. He served 5yrs as the secretary to the Governor of District 6460. He was Club Youth Exchange Chairperson District 6460 and Youth Exchange Chairperson. He was Director for Central States Rotary Youth Exchange. He had been the newsletter editor for the Collinsville Rotary Club since 1996 and was the District Governor in 1983-1984. Don was a Paul Harries Fellow which was awarded by his Rotary club for his work in Rotary Youth Exchange. He served European Correspondent for Central States Rotary which allowed him to travel to Europe and Asia six times as a representative to the European Youth Exchange meetings. Don was a member of St. John United Church of Christ in Collinsville and served on various committees including the church council for 6 years. While on council, he developed the procedures for Liturgists which is used today. In May 1995 he started the position of coordinator of volunteer ministries.

Don was the Campaign Chairperson for the 1986 Tri-City Area United Way and served 2 terms as Executive Member. He served on committees for the Department of Rehabilitative Service, Executive member of the Tri-Cities Labor Council. He served as a Division Leader for W.I.N.G.S. which is a fundraising project for St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Granite City.

Don was affiliated with many professional organizations: IL Federation of Teachers, Granite City Federation of Teachers, IL Vocational Assoc., Past President of the Southwest Area Council of Teachers, Chairperson of the Granite City Federation of Teachers, Secretary of the Metro-East Restaurant Assoc., Phi Delta Kappa, IL State Vocational Evaluation Team Member and Member of the Regional Superintendent of Schools Committee on School Violence. He was also a member of the IL Retired Association and Madison County Chapter. Don Served as Vice-President of the Twin Lakes Property Association. In 1994 he completed 5yrs as President of the Pointe North Phase 11 Condo Association and neighborhood watch chairperson.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Donna (Scaturro) father John V. Shaffner, mother, Agnes B. (Schmulbach), a brother John V. (Jack) Shaffner and sister Dorothy Mae Cooper-Cusack. He leaves behind a sister, Jeannine F. Domescik and many living nieces and nephews.

The last selfless act that Don requested was to donate his body to Washington University for research. A celebration of life service will be held at St. John United Church of Christ located at 307 W. Clay St. in Collinsville on April 30, 2022, at 10 a.m. Donations can be made in his name to: St. John’s United Church of Christ.

Herr Funeral Home in Collinsville, Illinos is in charge of arrangements.
An online guestbook may be found at www.herrfuneral.com

Col. Gary F. Andrew, US Army (Ret.)

November 19, 1944 – February 27, 2022

In loving memory of Colonel Gary F. Andrew- Rotary Governor 2016-2017, District 6860

Gary Franklin Andrew was born on November 19, 1944, to Franklin and Wilma George Andrew in Siler City, NC. He went to be with our Lord on February 27, 2022.

Gary is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joann McNeill Andrew; daughter, Amanda (Mike) Brown of Owensboro, KY; son, Neil Andrew of Huntsville, AL; grandchildren, Reagan, Andrew and Carter Brown, and Bailey and Aiden Andrew; sister, Susan Thomas (Joe) of Siler City, NC; mother-in-law, Maxine McNeill of Robbins, NC; sister-in-law, Debra McNeill-Sattler (Chuck) of Easley, SC; and brother-in-law, Walter Powers of Myrtle Beach, SC.

Gary attended N.C. State University earning a B.S. in Mathematics Education. Gary was commissioned as an officer in the Army upon his graduation in 1968. He earned his MS Program Management Degree from USC. He served his country for 26 years with a tour in Korea and three tours in Germany. He retired from active duty in 1994 as the Assistant Commandant of the Ordnance Missile and Munitions Center and School on Redstone Arsenal. Then, he was the Director of Training for the US Army Corps of Engineers Learning Center for 18 years.

Gary was recognized by the city of Huntsville as an Honorary Citizen in 1986 for his outstanding community service. He is a past president of Madison County Habitat for Humanity, and he led and built houses for Trinity UMC for years. He led and built wheelchair ramps for CASA and delivered Meals on Wheels. Gary is a past president of Rotary Club of Greater Huntsville, 2006-2007. In 2013, he was honored as the District Rotarian of the Year, the Thomas L. Milford, Jr. Service Above Self Award.
Joann and Gary received honorary membership in the Rotary Club of Greater Huntsville after his failing health and he had to resign.

Gary and Joann have been active members of military chapels and at Trinity. Gary served as chairman of the Board of Trustees and on the finance committee at Trinity. Gary enjoyed fellowship with the Cokesbury Sunday School Class and the Men’s Bible Study Group.

Visitation will be from 12 to 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 3, 2022, at Trinity UMC, 607 Airport Rd., Huntsville, AL 35802, immediately followed by a Celebration of Life. Burial to follow at Maple Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Gary’s honor to Habitat for Humanity, Rotary Foundation, or The Alzheimer’s Association.

Thomas A. Branum Sr.

March 6, 1937 – February 7, 2022

Thomas A. Branum Sr., 84, of Fishers, passed away on Monday, February 7, 2022, at Riverview Health in Noblesville. He was born on March 6, 1937 to Delmer and Margaret (Gregg) Branum in Clinton, Indiana.

Tom grew up in Parke County, IN and graduated from Rosedale High School in 1955. He was a financial planner for over 40 years, working for Equitable Life Assurance Company. A huge part of Tom’s life was being a member of Rotary International, joining in 1977, having perfect attendance for over 37 years. He served as District Governor for Central Indiana (1995-1996), served on the Rotary International Board of Directors (2007-2009), and he was Chairman of Rotary’s Reach-out Africa Program (2010-2015). Tom was on the Board of Hamilton Centers, Past Master of Rosedale Lodge and Past President of Alexander Hamilton chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. He was a member of Carmel United Methodist Church. He loved animals, especially horses and dogs. Tom loved traveling with his wife, Linda, and the rest of his family. He wanted to make sure his grandchildren saw the world, taking them on international trips.

Tom is survived by his wife of 63 years, Linda (Gardner) Branum; daughter, Kimberly Branum; sons, Thomas Branum Jr., and Gregg Branum; grandchildren, Becky (Jeremy) Dyson, Jonathan (Lora) Webster, and Victoria (Justin) Sue; and his great-granddaughter, Shea Dyson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, James Branum and Joseph Branum.

Services will be held at Heartland Church, 14900 E 126th St, Fishers, IN 46037 on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 12:00 Noon, with Sr. Pastor Darryn Scheske officiating. Visitation will be from 10:30 AM until the time of service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Fishers Rotary Water Is Life Project (FishersWaterIsLife.com) or The Rotary Foundation (Rotary.org).

William (Bill) Jones

March 12, 1939 – January 31, 2022

William J. Jones, 82, of Villa Grove passed away Monday (Jan. 31, 2022) at home.

Bill was born on March 12, 1939, in Tuscola, to William and Isabelle (Davis). He married Lois Robinson on Dec. 10, 1967, in Tolono.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Lois Jones; two children, Phillip (Sara) Jones and Jane (Doug) Pickett; four grandchildren, Susie Pickett, Sam Pickett, Will Jones and Jack Jones; and one brother, Thomas (Becky) Jones.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two twin sons, Joseph and Jackson Jones; one daughter, Susan Jones; and one brother, John Jones.

Bill was on the Camargo Township Library Board, School Board of Education, Chamber of Commerce, member of the Villa Grove Rotary, Masonic Lodge, Crime Stoppers, Ham Radio Club, Nifty Fifties, Experimental Aircraft Association and spent 58 years in dental practice (1964-2022). He was also an avid railroad enthusiast and a small-plane pilot.

Visitation will be from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6, at Villa Grove United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. at the church the same day with Pastor Duane Piercy officiating. Burial will follow in Villa Grove Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Camargo Township Library.

Stephen N. Ferri

January 28, 2022

Stephen N. Ferri, age 109, of Peoria, passed away at 2:41 PM on January 28, 2022 at Independence Village.

Born September 2, 1912 in Beverly, N.J. to Marie and Alfonso Ferri. He married Helen Dolan of Shawano, Wisc., on October 27, 1950. She preceded him in death in 1998. Stephen was also preceded in death by two sisters and one brother.

Survivors include several nieces and nephews, and one very special friend.

After his retirement in 1976 from Georgia-Pacific Corp., he devoted most of his time in volunteering. Stephen was a member of the Rotary Club of East Peoria where he served as president and later as District Governor of Rotary International in 1979. During WW2 he served in the U.S. Coast Guard in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theatres. Stephen was a member of St. Thomas Catholic Church.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 10, 2022 from 9:30 AM until time of funeral services at 10:00 AM at Resurrection Mausoleum. Father Thomas Taylor will officiate, and entombment will follow in the Mausoleum.

Memorials in Stephen’s memory may be made to a charity of the donors choosing.

Friends and family may sign the online guestbook by logging onto www.wrightandsalmon.com.

Donald Kwait

August 28, 1928 – January 22, 2022

Donald Kwait, 93, of Northbrook, Ill., passed away Jan. 22, 2022.

A resident of Cleveland for 92 years, Donald was born Aug. 28, 1928, and graduated from Cleveland Heights High School. Following a stint in the U.S. Navy, he studied at Ohio University and Case Western Reserve University, earning a degree in dentistry.

A dentist by profession, Donald also belonged to Rotary International, and served as district governor, aid to rotary president and on the board of trustees. He attended services at Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple.

With a passion for volunteering, Donald once received the Volunteer of the Year award from Cleveland Clinic.

Donald is survived by his wife of 72 years, Beatrice Kwait (nee Madow); children, Cory Kwait, Lisa Kohn (nee Kwait) and Brian Kwait; grandchildren, Adam Block, Samantha Kramer (nee Block), Haley Zollo (nee Kwait), Jared Kwait, Jason Kwait, Taylor Kwait, Danielle Kwait, Benjamin Kohn and Jackson Kohn; and great-grandchildren, Talia Block, Judah Block, Shira Block, Lily Kramer, Noah Kramer, Grey Kwait and Bryn Zollo. He was predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Lillian Kwait (nee Lash); brother, Robert Kwait; and son, Kim Kwait.

Funeral services were held Jan. 23 at Shalom Memorial Park in Arlington Heights, Ill.

Contributions in his memory can be made to Rotary International.

Sammy Chaffin

April 2, 1936 ~ November 19, 2021

Sam Chaffin, 85, passed away Nov. 19 at his home in Benton, surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eva and Millard Chaffin, and his daughter, Patty John Chaffin. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Charlie Cole Chaffin; son Cole of North Little Rock; daughter Marty Maier (David) of Crossville, TN; grandchildren Phoebe Chandler (Lindsay) of Springdale, AR; Emily Bain of Charlottesville, VA; Gracie Bain (Ross) of Fayetteville, AR; Parker Bain (Casey) of Denver, CO; and Laura Lane Rose (Brandon) of Durango, CO; great-grandchildren Scarlett Rose, Vincent Chandler and Cole Chandler; brother Thomas Chaffin of Lake Jackson, TX; and sister Amenda Meadows of West Monroe, LA.

A native of Magnolia, Sam graduated from the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in 1959 and a master’s degree in industrial engineering in 1960. He was the founder of Eagle Material Handling of Arkansas.

Sam joined the Rotary Club of Little Rock, Club 99, in 1975 and served in many leadership positions, including President, District Governor and Foundation Chair.

No service is planned. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Rotary Club of Little Rock, Club 99 (621 E. Capitol Ave., Little Rock, AR 72202-2421).

Cremation arrangements entrusted to www.ArkansasCremation.com

Carolyn A. Huston

October 14, 2021

Carolyn A. Huston (nee Howington), 68, of Amherst, died October 14, 2021 at MetroHealth Medical Center of injuries sustained in an automobile accident. She was born August 26, 1953 in Oberlin and was a 1971 graduate of Elyria High School. She received her associate degree in accounting from Lorain County Community College and a bachelor degree in business management from David N. Myers University. She was employed as chief financial officer for 35 years at Superior Electric Supply from where she retired. Carolyn was a member and a past president of Lorain Rotary, served as district governor and was active with MESA. She was also involved with Genesis House, served on the Lorain Community Foundation, board of The Elyria Salvation Army and established the Brian T. Huston Memorial Fund in honor of her son. She was an avid reader, enjoyed crafting and sewing and time with her grandchildren.

Carolyn is survived by her husband of 50 years, Robert; son, Tom (Pam) Huston of Amherst; daughters, Melissa (Ryan) Brunner of Lorain and Bethany Huston of Toledo; grandchildren, Benjamin, Dylan and Katelyn Brunner and Trevor and Olivia Huston; mother, Josil Howington; brother, Chuck (Rose) Howington of St. Louis; sisters, Barb (Al) Peterson of Bellville and Joyce (Keith) Sibert of Elyria.

She was preceded in death by a son, Brian Huston in 2016 and her father, Bill Howington in 2017.

Friends will be received Thursday, October 21, 2021 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Dicken Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 323 Middle Avenue, Elyria. A service will be Friday, October 22, 2021 at 10:00 am Heritage Presbyterian Church, 515 N. Leavitt Road, Amherst. Pastor Jennifer Walker Noyes will officiate. Burial will be in Brookdale Cemetery, Elyria.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Brian T. Huston Memorial Fund at the Community Foundation of Lorain County, 9080 Leavitt Road, Elyria, OH 44035.

Donald P. Chauvin

October 14, 2021

Past District Governor of Rotary and Abbeville High School Athletic Hall of Fame Founder Donald P. Chauvin passed away on October 14, 2021, at the age of 77 while surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy of “Service Above Self.”

In June of 1964, Don married Janet Young, and they have been happily married for 57 years. They are the proud parents of 4 children, Todd Chauvin, Pamela Chauvin Trahan married to Marshall Trahan, Kimberly Chauvin Etie’ married to Shawn Etie’, and Clayton Chauvin. He is the loving grandfather of 8 grandchildren, Zachary Chauvin, Jake Chauvin, Maddison Chauvin, Emiley Chauvin, Maggie Lackie married to Matt Lackie, Mallory Trahan, Morgan Trahan, and Everett Etie’. He has 12 great-grandchildren.

Don graduated from Abbeville High School in 1962 and continued his education at LSU, majoring in Accounting. In 1970, Don joined his dad in the operation of an H & R Block tax franchise in Abbeville. In 1985, he established the family business known to all as FACTS-5. He dedicated 51 years to serving the community with accounting, income tax, computer, and financial planning. In 2020, Don semi-retired. He worked primarily during tax season and enjoyed the remainder of a calendar year doing his favorite pastimes-namely watching LSU and Saints football. He was instrumental in organizing the Abbeville Youth Football League (AYFL). Over time the league expanded from the original 4 teams in Abbeville and added 2 teams from Erath and 1 from Kaplan. This AYFL provided an opportunity for 10, 11, and 12-year-old boys to fall in love with the game of football. He served as the league’s President for many years. He also served as Chairman of the Abbeville Parks and Recreation Commission. In the mid 70’s Don became active with the Abbeville High School Boosters Club and eventually was elected as President of this organization. At that time, the Boosters were only active during football season, and it was mostly a “greet and eat” organization. Don knew they could do much more for athletics and he set out to find additional opportunities for the Boosters to serve all athletic needs of Abbeville High School and thus he founded the AHS Athletic Hall of Fame in 1977. He hoped that this hall of honor would encourage the young athletes at the school to excel, hoping that someday they too would be enshrined into the Hall of Fame. His entire adult life was dedicated to various community service projects for which he is best known.

He was a member of the Abbeville Lions Club, the Abbeville Chamber of Commerce, Abbeville Historical Alliance, and he was a board member of the Abbeville Country Club. From 2005 thru 2016 he had the honor to serve as the Rotary International District 6200 Governor. Don’s dedication to Rotary allowed him to serve the district and his club where he managed the distribution of two million dollars in contributions for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita relief efforts. Throughout all of his Rotary service, Don truly exemplified Rotary’s motto “Service Above Self.” Don leaves behind his loving wife, 4 children, 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, 2 sisters Rose Williams, Mary Ann Stoutes, and his cousin who he saw more like a son, Tony Meaux.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert Sr. & Enola Chauvin, 2 brothers Robert Chauvin Jr. and Oscar Chauvin, sister Roberta Fox, and life-long best friend Cliffton Alleman. A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 19th, 2021, at David’s Funeral Home in Abbeville, Louisiana from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm with a tribute ceremony to honor him at 12:00 pm. The Chauvin family would like to express their most sincere appreciation for the exceptional care he received from the Abbeville First Responders and the outpouring of love and support from friends and extended family during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Rotary Foundation at myrotary.org in Donald Chauvin’s honor.

Thomas Simeon Clower Jr.

April 4, 1945 – September 25, 2021

Thomas Simeon Clower, Jr., a native of Gulfport, Mississippi, peacefully passed away at home in Gulfport on September 25, 2021.

Tom was an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Gulfport High School, Tulane University of New Orleans, and the Tulane unit of the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps. He served his military service as a Special Services Officer at the Gulfport Seabee Center. After military service, he was an officer of the J.C. Clower Furniture Company founded by his father, uncle and great uncle in 1911. He and his cousin J.R. Clower, Jr. later closed the business in 2002 after 91 years of operation.

Tom was active in the Rotary Club for many years serving on the board of directors, various committees, and as President in 1980-1981. He also served as District 684 Governor and was named Rotarian of the Year in 1978-1979 and 2012-2013. He served on the board of directors of The Great Southern Golf Club, belonged to the Gulfport Yacht Club, and was a member of the Gulfport Business Club. Tom was a longtime participant of the “9 o’clock crowd” coffee group at Triplett Day Drug Store until their closing in 2020. At that time, he moved with the coffee group to Petie’s Eats. He enjoyed his many travels, especially in Europe and South America, including the Amazon and the Norwegian Fjords.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Olive Barrett Clower and Thomas Simeon Clower Sr.; sisters, Olive Elizabeth Clower Rankin Beach and Catherine Clower Meeks Thornhill.

He is survived by his sisters, Dorothy Clower Phillips and Margaret Clower Hannen; and his nieces and nephews, Marianne Rankin, Stephen Rankin (Linda), Carolyn Rankin Arinder (Lanny), Christopher Rankin (Jane), Catherine Meeks Cottrell (Barry), Pamela Meeks Baswell (Steve), Margaret Phillips Sheehan (John), Patricia Phillips Philips, Sharon Hannen Robinson (David), Lynne Hannen, and Brian Hannen (Suzanne); and Solveig “Surrey” TenEyck, a very special friend.

The funeral service will be held at noon on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport. Friends may visit beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Gulfport. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is honored to serve the Clower family.

The family would prefer memorial gifts to The Salvation Army, 2019 22nd Street, Gulfport, MS 39501, Rotary Club of Gulfport Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 1436, Gulfport, MS 39502-1436, or a favorite charity.

Robert “Bob” K. Richardson

July 6, 1930 ~ September 21, 2021

Robert Kent Richardson, 91, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 21, 2021.Bob was born on July 6, 1930, the son of the late Kenneth and Eva (Guild) Richardson. Bob played football and boxed in high school. He won the Golden Gloves novice 160 lb. championship boxing trophy in 1948. After graduating from Mishawaka High School in 1949, he heard the call of duty and proudly enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps.: 2 years active duty (1950-52), 10 years in the Reserves. He fought on the front lines during the Korean Conflict until his honorable discharge with rank of sergeant. Bob was honored for his service at age 89 through the Honor Flight.

Bob married Anne Marie (Lisi) on September 19, 1953. They married on Anne’s parent’s anniversary, the late Giuseppe and Concetta Lisi. Bob and Anne enjoyed 65 years of marriage.

Bob retired as an executive at CTS. He was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church and St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church. Bob was also a member of the Mayflower Society, The Association of Energy Engineers, I.A.R.A, the Knights of Columbus, Elkhart Moose Lodge #599, the Elkhart Art League and charter member of the Concord Rotary where he served as president and district governor. Bob and Anne hosted several Rotary exchange students. He enjoyed traveling the world, golfing, dancing, Notre Dame Football, bowling, cowboy movies, art, band concerts at the park, Wagon Wheel productions and playing poker for 50 years with the same neighbors. But most important to him was spending time with his family.

He is survived by his daughters: Catherine DeGroote (Jim Kiefer) and Karen Carden. He is also survived by his grandchildren Brittan Bright (Michael King), Lauren Stewart (Reid Stewart), Garrett Frey, Kathryn Rowe, Nicki Clarke (Jeremy Clarke), Cole Went (Chrystal Went), and David Eberwein (Nayeli Rodriguez) with seven great-grandchildren and one more on the way. And countless others that have joined his family over the years and he considered family including all former bonus kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids. He was preceded in death by his wife, Anne Marie Richardson, daughter, Dr. Lori Linn Eberwein Patton, brothers, Al Richardson and Jim Richardson.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 25, at St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church, 411 W. Vistula St. in Bristol, with visitation 1 hour prior. Rev. Robert “Bob” VanKempen will officiate. Military honors rendered by the United States Marine Corps Funeral Honor Guard and the Elkhart Marine Corps League Detachment #1397 of which Bob was a charter member, will immediately follow the mass. A luncheon will then be served following the honors. Burial and graveside services will then take place at St. Vincent Cemetery.

Masks at all indoor elements will be required and we asked if you have experienced any symptoms of illness commiserate with COVID-19, that you do not attend physically out of an abundance of caution. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request memorials in Robert’s name to the St. Vincent dePaul Cemetery restoration fund, C/O St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church.

Mark Christian Anderson

1961 -2021

Mr. Mark Christian Anderson, 60, passed away from this life on September 3, 2021 at KDMC in Brookhaven, MS.

He was born on March 11, 1961 in Chapel Hill, NC to James Anderson and Carroll Ann Wombacher.

He is survived by his wife Shahla Fataliyeva/Anderson.

Mark Anderson was a member of Rotary for over 21 years and was serving as District Governor 2021-22 for district 6820. He was a second generation Rotarian, multiple Paul Harris Fellow and Paul Harris Society member. He served as President of 2 different Rotary Clubs in Districts 6820 and 6840. Mark has also served as Assistant Governor, Presidential Citation Chair, District Raffle Chair, District Sponsorship Chair and was an active Rotary Leadership Institute Facilitator. In recognition of his hard work and dedicated service, Mark was honored as both Club Rotarian of the Year and District Rotarian of the Year. Mark is the son of Dr. James William Anderson, a Presbyterian theologian and life-long Rotarian.

A Memorial service will be held on September 18, 2021 at Brookhaven Funeral Home (894 Natchez Drive, Brookhaven, MS) at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be at the Funeral Home on the same date from 10:00 AM till 11:00 AM.

Charles Michael (Mike) Crabill

January 10, 1949 – July 30, 2021

Charles Michael (Mike) Crabill, age 72, of Osceola, died Friday, July 30, 2021 at his residence. He was born January 10, 1949 in South Bend to Charles And Mary (Kraly) Crabill.

He married Teri Sue Crabill on June 3, 1999 in Kauai, Hawaii. Teri survives along with his son Brian (Christa) Crabill of Urbana, Indiana and one grandson, Everett.

Mike graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1967. He received psychology degrees from both John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio (Undergraduate) and Purdue University (Graduate).

He started his career in research and then began working at IDS (American Express) in Minneapolis in Financial Services. He moved back to South Bend in the late 1980’s and began his banking career in financial services at 1st Chicago NBD (Chase) and Wells Fargo until 2006. He then began working with Walter & Keenan Financial Consulting as an Investment Counselor until June 30, 2021.

Mike was an active Rotarian as a member of the Elkhart Rotary Club (Morning) since 1999. He was President of the local club three times and held numerous rotary district positions of district Governor (2011-2012), Foundation Chairman and Grants Chairman to name a few. The Rotary Motto of “Service Above Self” is how Mike lived his life. He cared more about what he could do for others than for himself.

One of Mike’s most gratifying life experiences was his numerous trips to the Appalachian Trail as part of a volunteer group rebuilding the shelters for the hikers.

He will be remembered by his wife Teri as simply a good, kind man. It was not in grand gestures but in the small day-to-day things that made life with mike so special to her (coffee in bed every morning, cribbage matches and pizza and a movie every Friday night for over 20 years).

A gathering of family and friends will be held Wednesday August 4, 2021 from 4-6pm with a memorial service following at 6pm at Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home in Elkhart.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Rotary Foundation at 14280 Collections Center Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60693.

Carol G. Fletcher

1928 – 2021

Carol G. Fletcher passed away on Sunday, July 25, 2021 at home in Marshall, Texas. Mr. Fletcher was born November 24, 1928 in Benton, Illinois, a son of the late Claude F. and Maude E. Fletcher. He attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois, the USAF Government Contract Law, Air University and Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He married Gracie M. Gilbreath in 1948 and went into business with his father as Tri-State Gas & Electric Company. He joined the U.S. Air Force in December 1951. His years in the Air Force were in various procurement assignments. After separation from the military, he went to work as a civilian procurement analyst for Headquarters Air Material Command and then transferred to the Atomic Energy Commission. In 1959 he accepted a procurement position with Thiokol at Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Alabama. He spent many years with Thiokol’s Longhorn Division at Marshall, Texas after service with the Space Booster Division in Brunswick, Georgia. He served as Director of Finance & Administration and at times, Plant Manager. In 1975 he received his Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) from University of Texas.

He retired from Longhorn in February 1986. After retirement he served as a consultant to Thiokol at Ogden, Utah and a variety of volunteer activities including Rotary International District Governor. He received both the Rotary International Citation for Meritorious Service and the Distinguished Service Award. He served at First Baptist Church, as a Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, BTU Director, Deacon and Chairman of Deacons, Chairman of Greeters and Host of the Welcome Center. Various positions included: President of Harrison County United Way, President of Harrison County Historical Museum, General Chairman of ETBU Annual Fund Drive, Chairman of Board Development ETBU, Chairman of Business Advisory Council ETBU School of Business, President Marshall Metro Rotary Club and for several years a Member of the Board of Directors Southwest Meter & Supply in Marshall.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Claude F. & Maude E. Fletcher, his loving wife since 1948, Gracie M. Fletcher, two brothers, Robert L. Fletcher and Dr. Ben S. Fletcher, son-in-laws, Gary Hall and Donnie Yeagin. He is survived by his children; Debbie Hall, David Fletcher and wife, Mary Lou and Denice Fletcher Yeagin, grandchildren; Josh Fletcher, Niki Monte and husband, Jason, Amy Hall and husband Punit Modi, Jessie Hall Moses and husband Nelson, great grandchildren; Jaxon, Braden and Kasen Monte.

Funeral Service will be 2:00 pm, Saturday, July 31, 2021 in the Chapel at Downs Funeral Home, Marshall, Texas with visitation at 1 pm and burial will be in Yates Cemetery, Scottsville, Texas. Pallbearers will be Charles Cornish, Charles Gillis, Brad Morin, David Neel, and Randy Pringle. Honorary Pallbearers: Dr. David King, Wayne McWhorter, Sam Moseley, Paul Tapp, Bob Thompson, Cary Workman

The Family would like to thank all the care given to their father by Barbara Gould, Debbie Williams, Debra Gaither, Shirley Campbell, Beverly Smith, Christi Young and Rose Mary Holmes. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Marshall, Texas, ETBU or Rotary Foundation.

John Osborn Gooch

1938 – 2021

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of John Osborn Gooch of Lees Summit, Missouri, born in Mexico, Missouri, who passed away on July 11, 2021, at the age of 82, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends can light a candle as a loving gesture for their loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of John Osborn Gooch to show support.

He was predeceased by : his parents, Cortes Gooch and Gertrude Hulse Gooch; and his brother Gerald Gooch. He is survived by : his wife Beth Hammond Gooch; his children, Nina Gooch (Erica French) and Carl Ollivier-Gooch (Kelly Ollivier-Gooch); and his granddaughters, Kaitlin Ollivier-Gooch (Kayla Carleton) and Jada Ollivier-Gooch (Isaac Sandri).

He was a Rotary District Governor in 2006 – 2007 and was quite active with Rotary International Foundation work.

Roger Frederic Viers

1937 – 2021

Roger Frederic Viers, 83, passed away July 9, 2021 in Gahanna, Ohio. He was born November 19, 1937 in Akron, Ohio to the late Hazel Louise (Payne) and Glenn Raymond Viers. After serving in the U.S. Army as a lieutenant , he went on to complete his undergraduate work at The University of Akron and later earned a master’s degree in Educational Psychology from Kent State University. While at Kent State he met and later married his first wife, Norma Jean (Weil) who proceeded him in death in 2008.

A lifelong educator, Roger began his career as a math teacher in Cleveland, followed by positions as school counselor, principal and finally superintendent in New Philadelphia. In 1981, Roger transitioned to the role of superintendent for the Gahanna-Lincoln School District. Shortly after moving to Gahanna, Roger was introduced to Rotary International which was an instant fit. The motto “Service Above Self” rang true in all areas of Roger’s life. He served as President of the Gahanna Rotary Club (1994-1995) as well as District Governor for Rotary International District 6690 (2000-2001). He became passionate about the Rotary youth exchange and fulfilled the role of country contact for the Ohio-Erie Youth exchange with Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and the Philippines.

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Sue Pyle-Viers; sons Dr. James (Amanda Orders) Viers and Joseph (Michelle) Viers; grandchildren Tyler, Austin, Bob (Mirella), Jim, Glenn, Niki, Mame, and David; great-grandchildren, Adelaida, Michael, Mariana and Liriola; stepsons, Shane (Angie) Pyle and Eric (Chris) Pyle; step-grandchildren James (Ashly), Jennifer, Hannah, Sophia, Cassie, Tasha, Katie, Jackson and Reagan; step-great-grandchildren, Noah and Hailee; brothers Robert (Janie) and John (Pam); extended family and friends including numerous exchange students.

Calling Hours will be held Sunday July 18th from 1 – 3 pm at the Schoedinger Northeast Chapel, 1051 Johnstown Rd in Gahanna. Funeral services for family and close friends at 5pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Roger F. Viers Scholarship Fund in care of Gahanna Rotary, PO Box 30786, Gahanna, OH 43230. Private interment will take place in Mifflin Twp. Cemetery. Services entrusted to Schoedinger Northeast. Visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories or to extend condolences.

Kendall “Ken” Messer

October 18, 1949 – April 03, 2021

Kendall “Ken” Brice Messer, a long-time Warrensburg resident, died unexpectedly on April 3, 2021 at the age of 71.

Kendall is survived by his wife of 50+ years, Barbara (nee Avaux); his children, Jessica (Doug) Brauer, Sara (Brian) Shewry; and Eric (Alisa) Messer; his grandchildren Jacob and Addison Brauer, Aiden Shewry, and Kaci and Angelica Messer; his two sisters Shirley (Lee) Smith and Sharon (Brad) Stanley, and his brother, Brian (Joy) Messer.

Ken was born in Fairfield, Iowa, on October 18, 1949, to Clifford and Mazie Messer. He graduated from Iowa State University in 1971 with a degree in Animal Science. He later graduated from the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 1988. Kendall retired from Edward Jones in 2011 after a 37-year career in banking and financial planning.

Ken was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He greatly enjoyed gardening and singing in the First United Methodist Church choir. He was a long-time member of Rotary International, serving as District Governor from 2013-2014. A strong believer in servant leadership and an avid volunteer, Ken served on many boards and participated in many organizations including Lions Club, the Executive Board of Care Connection for Aging Services, and the Board of Directors of the Trails Regional Library Foundation, and WIG Investment Club.

A visitation will be held on Friday, April 9th from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Sweeney-Phillips & Holdren Funeral Home in Warrensburg. A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 10th at First United Methodist Church in Warrensburg followed by burial at Sunset Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Music Ministry of the First United Methodist Church in Warrensburg or the Trails Regional Library Foundation in Warrensburg. Due to Covid, masks will be required at all memorial events to honor, respect, and protect Ken’s family.

Richard Neal Bollinger

December 7, 1949 – March 20, 2021

Richard Neal Bollinger, 71, lifelong resident of Montgomery, Al went to be with the Lord on March 20, 2021 after a valiant battle with cancer. Richard will have visitation on Saturday March 27th from 10 am to 12 noon at Montgomery City Hall with a Celebration of Life Service service from 12 until 1pm.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Frank John and Ruth “Doll” Bollinger.

He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Cheryl Lynn Bollinger; his children, Stephanie “Pete” Bollinger McGough (Chris), Jeff Josey, Patrick Haigler (Kristan), and Ashley Boswell; his brother, Alan Bollinger (Stephanie). He was also known as “Grandaddy” to eight grandchildren that he admired and adored.

Richard was a member of First Baptist Church Montgomery, enjoyed a career as a professional civil engineer and land surveyor at J.M. Garrett and Son for 50 years, he retired after 24 years of service as a Major in the National Guard, he was elected and served as a City Councilman in Montgomery, Al for 9 years. He was a member of the Sunrise Rotary Club in Montgomery, Al for 24 years, he was the 7th President of the club from 2001-2002 and served as the District Governor from 2007-2008. He traveled to India with the Rotary club to administer Polio Vaccines in 2010 and also traveled to Africa to work on a water project in 2014. Richard looked at life by following one of the Rotarian mottoes, Service above Self. He served at the Montgomery Area Council on Aging, Eastern Seals, Montgomery Housing Authority, Camp ASCCA, United Way, and many more nonprofit organizations.

He was an Auburn University Fan who loved to watch the Tigers play, liked to play golf, scuba dive, enjoyed boating on Lake Martin, and spending time with family and friends during his spare time. Richards heart, mentoring, willingness to help others, and love will be sincerely missed and felt by the community, friends, and family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in his honor to Rotary Foundation Memorial: https://rotary.raisenow.net/organisations/rotary/Bruce-Mcneal/memorial.

Paul bearers: Chris Mcgough, Jonathan Ball, Tom Mann, Barry Cavan, Eric Lewis, George Chapman, Willie Durham, Jimmy Hill

Dr. James Roscoe Shamblin M.D. Jr.

February 14, 2021

Dr. James Roscoe Shamblin, Jr. passed away peacefully the night of February 14, 2021, after a long life well-lived. Jim was born to Dr. James Roscoe Shamblin Sr. and Charlotte Avery Shamblin on March 19, 1933, and grew up in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Alabama. Jim then attended Tulane School of Medicine and, upon his graduation, took an internship at the University Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. He obtained his fellowship in surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. After serving in the Army as a Captain, stationed at Ft Benning, GA, he began his medical practice in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and later retired in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was certified by the American Board of Surgery and was a founding member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. During his fifty years of service, he performed twenty-three hundred bariatric operations and maintained his general surgery practice.

In addition to his medical practice, he published eighteen articles on various surgical subjects and made presentations throughout the United States and around the world, including London, England; Kyoto, Japan; Sydney, Australia; and Acapulco, Mexico.

In public service, he held many positions in the Rotary Club, including the Tuscaloosa Rotary Club’s presidency for two terms and vice-president of Rotary International from 2002-2003. During his Rotary service, he traveled around the world carrying out Rotarian missions to improve people’s living conditions in third world countries, particularly in Africa.

Throughout his life, he found time to enjoy his favorite sport, golf. As with all of his activities, he excelled in this sport and won many local and state championships. Next to golf, his favorite pastime was cheering on the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Jim was preceded in death by his best friend and brother, Dr. Bill Shamblin. He is survived by his wife, Betty Hoffman Shamblin, and his five children: James Avery Shamblin and wife Sara, Brian Shamblin and wife Brenda, Wayne Shamblin and wife Belinda, Anne McCanless and husband Chris, and Scott Shamblin and wife Kelley. He also leaves behind his stepchildren, Tommy Chapman and wife Debbie and Tammy Ballard and husband Chris, and many very much-loved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

The family extends deep gratitude to Jim’s loving friends and caregivers at Harbor Chase Assisted Living in Plano, Texas.
Graveside services and burial will be held at Tuscaloosa Memorial Park and Chapel on February 21, 2021 at 4:00 P.M. with Reverend Michael R. Bailey officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Rotary Club of Tuscaloosa, P.O. Box 2403, Tuscaloosa, AL 35403.

Gregory F. Yank

August 13, 1946 – January 05, 2021

Gregory Francis Yank, age 74, of O’Fallon, Illinois, born August 13, 1946 in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, to Frank Andrew Yank and Carole Florence, nee Carney, Yank, died Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. Greg was preceded in death by his parents.

Surviving are his wife Catherine Taylor Yank, whom he married January 22, 2000; his three children Damien (Lauren, nee Wolf) of Troy, Ill., Julia of O’Fallon, Ill., Gerrit of O’Fallon, Ill.; and three grandchildren Grayson, Stella and Lilly; his siblings Roberta (Nicolas) Curich, Carolyn (Michael) Gillespie, Christine (Ronald Rick) Cash, Thomas (Kathleen), Valerie (Kris Mainz), and Theodore (Linda Paulson).

Greg considered athletics an important part of his life and played basketball in high school and college. Having been raised in Wisconsin, Greg was a passionate fan of the Green Bay Packers and the University of Michigan Wolverines. As an avid golfer he spent many days on the golf course with friends and family. Greg attended golf school with Gerrit, then with Julia and Catherine. The Yanks have always enjoyed St. Louis Cardinal baseball and waited for Opening Day with much anticipation. Greg enjoyed watching his grandson Grayson play select baseball (Redbirds), watching his granddaughter Stella play select soccer (Missouri Rush), and being entertained by his youngest granddaughter Lilly. He reprised the role of Tiny Tim every December in A Christmas Carol at the Looking Glass Playhouse, Lebanon, Ill. He loved being on stage and participated in community theatre throughout his life.

Greg was a devoted Catholic who lived his faith through Rotary. He was a Rotarian in the Rotary Club of O’Fallon, Illinois, where he served as President in 1992-93 and then as Governor of Rotary International District 6510 Southern Illinois in 2001-2002 and again in 2010-11. Greg completed his term as Rotary International Director 2017-2019. Additionally, he served as Chair and then Member of Rotary’s Strategic Planning Committee. Greg received the Service above Self Award in 2014 which is a prestigious award for Rotarians who demonstrate their commitment to helping others by volunteering their time and talents. Greg and Catherine are members of the Arch Klumph Society and the Bequest Society. Greg believed that Rotary enabled him to live a life that mattered because he knew that lives in our communities and the world could be change because of what Rotarians do!

Greg has served on the Metro East Park & Recreation District and was a Board Member of the O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce. From the beginning, Greg has facilitated the quarterly meetings of BEST (Building Educational Success Together), bringing together the four school districts in the O’Fallon area.

Greg had a BA in philosophy from St. Mary of the Lake Seminary, Mundelein, Ill.; an MBA from Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio; a “Specialist in Aging” Certificate from the University of Michigan/Wayne State; and was a Graduate of Stanford University’s Executive Program.

Greg spent 25 years in health care executive management and leadership, serving twice as a hospital CEO, and as President and CEO of a Catholic Health System. For 11 years, Greg owned The Alternative Board TAB, a business coaching/peer advisory board franchise. He then continued to be a business coach on a part-time basis mentoring and working with business owners. He was the principal in GY Consulting & Facilitation Services and specialized in business coaching, strategic planning, facilitation, strategic governance and board development.

Memorial donations may be made to the Rotary using this link https://www.endpolio.org/donate. Presently, donations to End Polio Now are being matched by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.wfh-ofallon.com

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 am, Friday, January 15, 2021 at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 625 St. Nicholas Dr., O’Fallon, Illinois, with Msgr. William J. Hitpas presiding. Due to COVID restrictions, capacity is limited. Attendance via live-streaming is encouraged using this link https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCasP3n4VfIKTiiKSRAyAP1A

James “Jim” Fitzgerald

October 12, 1936 ~ December 19, 2020

Jim was born on Monday, October 12, 1936 in Stamford, TX to Ennis and Mary (Lawrence) Fitzgerald. From an early age he was fascinated and loved working with machinery and tools. By the age of 8, he spent his free time learning the skills of carpentry alongside his father. At Abilene High School (in Abilene, TX), he was active in Track & Field and shop. But it was the sassy personality of a certain young red head, by the name of Georganna Lee, that caught his eye and captured his heart. The couple spent many ‘dates’ riding his Triumph Trophy motorcycle along the open roads of Abilene.

On November 24, 1954 Jim and his High School sweetheart, Georganna Lee were married. It was a quintessentially warm and sunny Texas day. Together, they raised three wonderful children: David, Kenneth, and Melody. Life was busy with a young family to support. During the day, while Georganna managed the children and the household, Jim was busy at Bell Helicopter fabricating parts. The evenings were filled with night school at the University of Texas at Arlington. In 1968 he received his BA degree.

With the job of running a machine manufacturing facility waiting for him, Jim moved the family to Marshall in 1972 to manage Wesco Valve. In 1978, he joined Ed Baker and started E. Baker and Associates. He had always dreamed of owning his own machine manufacturing business, and so, it was in 1990 that he established Magnum Machine & Mfg. Magnum Machine & Mfg. continues today under the leadership of his son, Kenneth.

Jim had a passion for serving others. He expressed this service primarily through Rotary – but also in-service projects for First Baptist Church Marshall, The Marshall News Messenger, and Marshall High School Band. In Rotary, he was an avid and contributing member of the Rotary Club of Marshall for over thirty years. During that time, Jim served in numerous positions of the club, including president and eventually as Governor of District 5830. His long service included sponsoring several area Rotary Club formations, scholarships for at risk High School students, guiding the inauguration of a Rotary club at Wiley College, and the Marshall Rotary Flags program – among many others. Across the region, Jim was instrumental in training new club presidents through Texas Rotary President Elect Training. Internationally, Jim and his wife Georganna traveled to the Philippines to commission a Rotary Humanitarian Matching Grant to provide clean water and public toilets with septic systems in the Orani Philippines area. While there, he assisted a surgical mission treating over 300 children and adults. Eradication of polio and preventable diseases were always close to his heart and he was a major donor to the Rotary Foundations Polio Vaccination Program.

Jim was also a patented inventor. A problem solver. His inventive and ever busy mind was always searching for solutions to everyday problems. Like many inventors, not every idea was a winner. But others were huge hits. His inventions revolutionized natural gas engine push rods, wax slabbing, compressed air dehydration and others. His ideas extended beyond work to the community. One recommendation he made – to reduce traffic accidents along Highway 59 – was to widen turn lanes to accommodate long pine logging trucks.

But Jim’s greatest joy was his family and bringing smiles to friends and neighbors. Some will remember Jim for his annual Santa Claus performance. Sitting in the window of his home, dressed as Santa Claus he would wrap presents all evening, as cars and buses passed by. Looking up from time-to-time, to wave, he was eager to see the look of astonishment in the children’s faces. His family will remember him for his warmth, welcoming spirit and generous soul. He and Georganna were never happier than being at family get-togethers surrounded by their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his daughter Mary Dell and his sisters, Freida, Rachel, Eunice, Onita, and Juanita, and only brother, Ralph. He is survived by his wife, Georganna, his three children, David, Kenneth, and Melody. His nine prolific grandchildren, Cullen, Lauren, Erin, Crystal, DeAnna, Chris, Virginia “Gini”, Sarah and Jeremy, and by 14 great-grandchildren, Rocket, Audi, Daxxus, Draven, Alice, Xander, Ledric, Sophie, Mary, Jaxon, Lillian, Ford, Lincoln and Kennedy.

Jim was always concerned for others. Given that concern and his desire for all to stay healthy, there will be no public service. Flowers may be sent to Meadowbrook Funeral Home in Marshall, TX, or donations sent to the Rotary Club of Marshall.

William (Bill) Williams French, III

December 10, 2020

William (Bill) Williams French, III, son of Anna McLester French and William Williams French, Jr., passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at the age of 89. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama and graduated from Ramsey High School in 1949.

He graduated from Princeton University with a degree in engineering in 1953 and was a Lt JG on the USS Philippine Sea at the end of the Korean War from 1953 – 1955. He continued his education, graduating in 1957 with an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Bill had a distinguished business career, beginning with Alabama Power from 1957 – 1963. He worked at Moore – Handley beginning in 1963 and became President of Moore-Handley Hardware Company and was also a member of the Young Presidents Organization. He continued his career, founding The Storeroom as a division of Thompson Tractor Company, and subsequently The Storeroom was sold to Turner Supply Company.

Bill was President of the Downtown Rotary Club of Birmingham and District Governor of District 6860. He was a member of The Redstone Club and Mountain Brook Club. As a longtime member of Blooming Grove Hunting and Fishing Club, he enjoyed bird hunting and was an avid fly fisherman; he knew where every fish was in the streams. He was a fourth generation member of South Highland Presbyterian Church, baptized there as a baby, later serving as an Elder and Trustee. He enjoyed greatly the Leadership Sunday School class.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Jane Blough French, his daughter, Helen Decker Caldwell, his son, William W. French, IV, and his daughter, Janie French Fahey. He has four grandchildren: Billy (Madison) and Gabi Fahey, and Cate and Griffin Caldwell. He is also survived by his sister, Anna Brantley of Wilmington, Delaware and his brother and sister-in-law, Jamie and Mary French of Birmingham, Alabama. His sister and brother-in-law, Ada and Jamie McWane, are deceased.

There will be a Service of Witness to the Resurrection at South Highland Presbyterian Church on Sunday, December 13 at 2 PM with limited attendance, due to Covid 19 precautions.

Dale M. Pence

August 27, 1922 – December 9, 2020

Dale M. Pence, 98, of Columbia City, died Wednesday, December 9, 2020, at Heritage Point, Fort Wayne, where he had been a resident for the past three years.

Dale was born August 27, 1922, in Huntington County, Indiana, the son of the late Harry L. and Agnes Grace (Shideler) Pence. He graduated from Clear Creek High School and began at Huntington College, playing basketball both places.

On January 20, 1944, he was united in marriage to Marjorie A. Williams while he was home on leave from the Army. Soon after, he shipped to Europe, where he served in the 134th Infantry, 35th Division during WWII. He was twice wounded in France. Dale was awarded the Bronze Star for his action on November 10, 1944, when he lost his right foot. Upon his eventual return, he and Marjorie first lived in Huntington and then moved to Columbia City. They were married for 74 years until her death, November 10, 2018.

Dale completed his senior year at Huntington College after returning from his Army service, and he began as a teacher at Huntington Township High School. He and Marjorie spent summers at Indiana University, Bloomington, as he completed graduate courses. He was first a Principal at Monument City High School and moved in 1954 to the Columbia City Public Schools where he was a Principal and later Assistant Superintendent when he retired in 1984.

Active in the Columbia City Rotary Club for over 50 years, he served as a Rotary District Governor in 1985-86. Despite living 20 miles away, Dale and Marjorie were long-time members of St. Peter’s First United Church of Christ in Huntington, where her parents had been members. Dale taught an adult Sunday school class there for 50 years. They left that congregation when it voted to leave the denomination, and then they joined the Columbia City United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his two sons (and wives), Dr. Dennis (Rebecca) Pence, Kalamazoo, MI, and Dr. Neil (Ann) Pence, Columbus, IN; three grandchildren, Adam (Maddie) Pence, Ithaca, NY, Brian Pence, and Abigail Pence, both of Indianapolis; and one great-grandchild, Charles Pence, Ithaca, NY. He also has many surviving nieces and nephews who have been very dear to him.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Mae McCombs, Marie Lahr, and Helen Mickley; and three brothers, D L Pence, R. George Pence, and Carl Pence.

A private service will be held for immediate family followed by burial in a family plot in the St. Peter’s First Church Cemetery, Huntington. Arrangements by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorials are to St. Peter’s First Community Church or Rotary Foundation.

Donald (Don) Dean Walker

June 17, 1935 – November 30, 2020

Finally and forever reunited with the love of his life, Shirley, Don peacefully departed from us with a full life and a full heart. After graduating from The University of Tulsa in 1958, with a degree in Petroleum Engineering, he married his Sand Springs High School sweetheart, Shirley Marie Strout. They first met as children, then dated throughout high school. Don was the only son of Fredrich Floyd Walker and Bethel Okla Walker (nee Clugston).

In 1959, he and Shirley moved to Venezuela and then to Tripoli, Libya in 1968 with their two young sons, where he worked in oilfield services. After several years in Tripoli, he and three of his friends started their own oil field service company, Superior Services. In 1980, he retired from the petroleum world and moved his family back to Tulsa where he owned and operated several self-serve car washes in the Tulsa area. He devoted the rest of his life to his family and international philanthropy.

Don was one of the first members of the Sunrise Rotary Club, in Tulsa. He and Shirley made many trips with Rotary to help eradicate polio around the world. Don and fellow Rotarians also worked on two other key projects: One was to fit children with recycled/donated eyeglasses; the other was to correct cleft palates in the Rotarian effort known as “Rotaplast”. For both projects, Don spent much of his time in his adoptive country of Chile.

Don served, not only as President of his own Rotary club, but as the 1995-1996 District Governor of Rotary District 6110, serving 4000 Rotarians across four states. He proudly bragged to anyone that would listen, that his 1994 Chevy Blazer took 400K miles as he visited each and every club within 6110!

He was himself a Paul Harris Fellow and was proud to also make that claim of all 9 of his grandchildren, his favorite fellowship being his granddaughter Kathryn, whom he proudly made a fellow while she was still in the womb! His darling Shirley served as President of the Rotary Ann’s, even before women were admitted into Rotary International! Don traveled the world extensively in his 85 years, visiting over 110 countries and all seven continents.

He leaves behind a sister, Fern Mundy of Tulsa, OK; son Mitch of Carrollton, Texas; son Keith and daughter-in-law Kelly of Broken Arrow; and 9 of his most favorite people, his grandchildren, Alexander of Tulsa; Jude of Brooklyn, NY; Jackson of Broken Arrow; Major of Kansas City, MO; Kathryn of Broken Arrow; Mallory of Carrollton, TX; Hudson of Carrollton, TX; Elizabeth of Broken Arrow; and Lorena of Carrolton, TX; and literally thousands of Rotarian friends throughout the world. Don and Shirley were members of Memorial Baptist Church in Tulsa Oklahoma.

The Walker family encourages the support of local florists, especially during 2020, and would happily welcome any arrangements to our home in Broken Arrow or directly to the funeral home for Thursday’s viewing. As an alternative, Don would have loved and welcomed donations to the Sunrise Rotary Club in Don’s name to be utilized toward the worldwide fight against Polio, or to help establish the

DONALD WALKER EDUCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP. Checks can be made payable to
Sunrise Rotary Foundation
PO Box 701391
Tulsa OK 74170
In Memorial Don Walker

Timothy Gover

March 16, 1938 – Dec. 3, 2020

Former Mattoon Mayor, Timothy D. Gover, age 82, of Mattoon passed away at 6:48 a.m. on Thursday, December 3, 2020 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center.

Timothy D. Gover was born on March 6, 1938 in Mattoon the son of the late Daniel P. Gover and M. Josephine (McVay) Gover. In 1955, while a Junior at Mattoon High School, he was elected to serve as Governor of the American Legion sponsored Premier Boys State. That same year he was selected to attend Boys Nation in Washington, D.C. where he met President Dwight Eisenhower and Vice President Richard Nixon. Upon graduation from Mattoon High School in 1956 he attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. There he was initiated into Delta Sigma Pi professional business fraternity. In 1960 he received the Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

Gover received the Master of Science degree with a major in Finance from the University of Illinois-Urbana in 1961.

From the U of I he went to the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville where he was Instructor of Economics and also worked on a doctorate. It was there where he met the love of his life, Marilyn Schof, who was working on a Master of Business Administration degree. They were married on August 31, 1963 in Marilyn’s home town of New Orleans, LA.

They both joined the faculty of the School of Business at Eastern Illinois University in 1963. Tim was an Assistant Professor of Marketing and Marilyn was an Instructor of Accounting. Tim advanced through the ranks of Assistant Professor, Associate Professor and finally Professor of Finance. He served as a member or chairman of several University committees including the Faculty Senate. He organized Epsilon Omega Chapter of Delta Sigma Pi professional business fraternity and served as Chapter Advisor for 20 years. He served the Fraternity as a District Director and as a member of the national board of directors. In addition, he served as a member or chairman of several national committees. Gover received two Testimonials of Appreciation from the national Fraternity. In 2015 he was selected to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest recognition of the Fraternity, for his many years of service. He had previously been recognized for 25 years and 50 years as a member of the Fraternity.

During his years at Eastern, Gover authored more than 30 articles which were published in banking and other periodicals. After 32 years as a faculty member at Eastern Illinois University Gover retired in 1995.

Gover joined the Charleston Rotary Club in 1981 and served as president in 1990-1991. In 1995-1996 he served as Governor of Rotary District 6490. The District level he served as a member or chairman of several major committees. He was named to the District Hall of Honor in recognition of his service to the District and Rotary. He was a multiple Paul Harris Fellow and a major donor to the Rotary Foundation.

Gover served at one time as a director of three banks. He was a director of the Greenup National Bank, now a part of First Neighbor Bank. He helped organize and was a director of the Bank of Charleston, now a part of Prairie State Bank. He served on the board of directors of First Federal Savings and Loan of Mattoon, now a part of Washington Savings Bank, for 36 years. Gover served on the board of directors of the Coles County Council on Aging from 1997 until the time of his death. From 1999 until 2011 he served as president during which time was planning, fund-raising and construction of the LifeSpan Center. In 2010 he was selected as the recipient of the Dr. Arthur M. Larson Leadership Award by the East Central Illinois Area Agency of Aging. In 2013 he was named Donor-of-the-Year by the Coles County Council on Aging.

He served on the Lincoln/Sargent Farm Foundation for 13 years. Gover was on the board of directors of the Eastern Illinois University Foundation for five years and served as president for one year. He was a member of the Coles County Board from 1999 until 2003.

In 2009, Gover was elected to the Mattoon City Council. Upon the resignation of Mayor David Cline, he was named Mayor. Gover was re-elected Mayor in 2013 and 2017 without opposition. As Mayor he served on the board of directors of Coles Together, the Mattoon Area Industrial Corporation and the East Central Illinois Development Corporation. He also served on the board of directors of Coles County Crime Stoppers and the Local Emergency Preparedness Committee. Gover was elected Vice President of the Illinois Municipal League in 2013. Among the committees he served on were the Executive and Nominations Committees.

He was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Department of Accounting at the University of New Orleans in 2014 which was Marilyn’s alma mater. Tim and his son Ed endowed a Scholarship in Marilyn’s name at the University.

For several years Gover served on the Finance Council of the Immaculate Conception Parish and was an usher and greeter. He was a member of the Building Committee for the Parish Center. For more than 30 years he taught the finance program for the engaged couples at the Newman Center at EIU.

Gover was elected in 2018 to serve on the board of directors of the Lake Land College Foundation. At various times he was on the board of directors of the Coles County Historical Society.

Tim and Marilyn have one wonderful and loving son, Edward T. Gover and he survives with his wife, Bonnie in Frisco, TX. He has two granddaughters, Lainey Gover of Dallas, TX and Katie Gover of Kansas City, MO. Also surviving is one brother, Dr. Phil (Joyce) Gover of San Antonio, FL; and several nieces and nephews. Mike and Jan Ziebka and their family have been like family to Tim.

Marilyn Gover died in 2008 and his brother, Bob, died in 2019.

A Funeral Mass honoring his life will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at the Immaculate Conception Church with Father Brayden Maher officiating. Internment will be at Calvary Cemetery. Schilling Funeral Home is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be given to the LifeSpan Center or the Marilyn Gover Endowed Scholarship at Lake Land College. Online condolences may be expressed at www.schillingfuneralhome.net or Schilling Funeral Home’s Facebook page.

Donald R. Collette

November 29, 2020

Donald R. “Don” Collette, of McMinnville, age 84, died on November 29, 2020.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles M. Collette and Maredia R. Collette Bales.

Mr. Collette is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Cameron Collette, who cared for him throughout his illness; children, Dr. David Collette (Debbie) Huntsville, AL and Dr. Ann Collette, Murfreesboro, TN (Jack Campbell); grandchildren, Emily Collette (Bartlee Linton), Olivia Collette, and Lauren Durham; sister-in-law, Carolyn Cameron Jones (Tom); and brother-in law, Joe Cameron (Ann).

He served as General Manager/CEO of McMinnville Electric System for 26 years and was a Certified Power Executive. He was active throughout his life in many business and trade associations, serving as President of national, regional and state power organizations. He was a member of the Rotary Club of McMinnville and served as Rotary District Governor in 1993-1994. He was proud of his service as a Director of Security Federal Savings Bank for 27 years, beginning in 1993 and enjoyed his role as a Director of Accu-Router, Inc., in McMinnville. His long-time involvement in economic development in Warren County was a most satisfying accomplishment. After his retirement in 1999, he spent fifteen years as a contractor to the Federal Emergency Management Agency working in disasters.

Don was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a Scottish Rite Mason. He was an active member of both First Christian Church (Rockwood, TN) and St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (McMinnville, TN).

A memorial service will be held at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church on Wednesday, December 2, 2020 at 11:00 am for family members. The service will be live-streamed on YouTube and information regarding a link to the service can be found at the church’s website, www.saintmatthewschurch.net. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Kastaway Kitties (KKRS), or Magness Memorial Library.

Arrangements are by High Funeral Home, McMinnville, TN.

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com

Gerald L. Harp

October 16, 2020

Gerald L. Harp passed away October 16, 2020 at 8:17 p.m. Gerald was the son of Harvard and Floy Harp, founders of Harps Food Stores. He was born March 21, 1940, in Springdale, Ark. Gerald married Vicki in 1989, she was the inspiration of his life, and motivated him to levels that he did not know he could achieve.

Gerald graduated from Springdale High School in 1958 and helped organize the class reunions during the years following graduation. Served his country in the US Army, most notably during the Berlin Wall Crisis. Years later he would be instrumental in a monument being erected for Veterans of Springdale Schools who died serving their country. He returned home to graduate in 3 ½ years from the University of Arkansa in 1966. Gerald joined the family business, Harp’s Food Stores, where he worked for 45 years. He served the last seven years as the President of the company and was instrumental in selling the 70 year old company to the Employees in 2001. He gave 10% of his share of the sale to long term employees of the company. Harp’s Food Stores operated on the belief that if associates and customers were served, that the company would be successful.

Gerald has been a member of the First Baptist Church of Springdale since 1940. He and Vicki believed in faithful tithing and supporting the church.

Gerald enjoyed annual fishing trips to Alaska, elk hunting in Colorado (38 yrs) and pheasant hunting in South Dakota with friends.

Gerald was a Rotarian, joining the Springdale Rotary Club in 1968 serving as President 1977-78. He served as District Governor of District 6110, RI, 2004-05 in the 100th Anniversary Year of Rotary International, with a firm belief that Rotary benefited mankind throughout the world. While District Governor of District 6110 and a Paul Harris Fellow, he helped over 800 other Rotarians become Paul Harris Fellows. District 6110 was the number two club of 150 districts in the United States, fifth in the world of 529 districts, and led the U.S. in total membership growth.

He was a level six donor to the Rotary Foundation, endowed a scholarship to the University of Arkansas where a low income student could come and study. Endowed a Rotary Peace Scholarship believing this would be a major source of supporting peace in the world. He supported Rotary in many other ways from delivering loads of medical supplies and equipment to the District Medical Supply Warehouse to support digging water wells in Nigeria, Nicaragua, Peru, and other countries. He purchased soybean/milk producing machines for the country of Peru.

Gerald was a major supporter of the Polio Plus campaign that eradicated Polio from the world. He was a major donor to the Wheelchair Foundation, Chamber of Commerce, Broyles Matthews Scholarship, and Springdale Rotary Family Park. He supported Springdale Schools and helped finance Harp’s Elementary School in honor of his parents and their children.

He served on many charitable boards during his life including the United Fund, as Fund Chairman/President, Ozark Guidance Foundation Board, Salvation Army, Red Cross, and the Washington Regional Hospital Board.

Gerald was a life member of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Mule Deer Foundation, National Turkey Federation, Ducks Unlimited, Trout Unlimited, Arkansas Historical Society, Arkansas Alumni Association, Springdale Schools Alumni Association, AAII, Consumer Reports, National Rifle Association, and was the first Life Member of the National Hummingbird Society of Arkansas.

Gerald enjoyed supporting the Washington 4-H kids in the premium buying of their animals at the county fair each year and has left support for this project in the future.

Gerald and Vicki enjoyed cruising the many seas and oceans of the world and were fortunate to visit many countries. They enjoyed staying in Branson because of it’s family orientation and peaceful atmosphere.

Gerald was proud to have lived in Springdale, Ark. Based on it’s great southern hospitality, along with the persons in the community who gave of their time and resources, he always said it was the best place in the world to live and raise a family. He believed that the quality of your life is greatly influenced by helping others less fortunate than you, prayer, and by taking care of your body through exercising and proper nutrition.

Gerald and Vicki are very appreciative of Pam Everett as a long time associate, and Roger Collins who was instrumental in leading Harp’s Food Stores employees after the purchase of the company by the employees.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Kimi, son Jerry, sister Judy, brothers Don and Reland, and his parents.

He is survived by his wife Vicki, his daughters Timi Ray; her husband Frank; Jackie Harp. Step Daughters, Christy Moreno; husband Gerry, Heather Scholl. Grandchildren; Kourtney Blythe, Frankie Ray, Tiffani Ray, John G. Ray, Kate Williams; husband John. Joshua Moreno; his wife Sydney S. Moreno; Sydney B. Moreno, Noah Scholl and Nick Scholl. Great-grandchildren Parker and Kimberly Ray, Nyla Barbosa, Haley, Haiden, and Jase Williams.

Funeral service will be Thursday, October 22, 2020 at 2pm at Cross Church in Springdale.

Burial will follow in Friendship Cemetery.

Memorials should be made to the Springdale Rotary Charitable Foundation, P.O Box 6006, Springdale, Ark., 72766 for the purpose of digging water wells.

Online condolences may be left at www.siscofuneral.com.

Lt. Col. John Brady Castleberry, U.S. Air Force, Ret.

1944-2020

John Brady Castleberry, age 76, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2020, after a 10-year battle with a rare autoimmune condition of the lungs.

John was born May 14, 1944, in Hattiesburg, MS, to Okel Brady and Mildred Campbell Castleberry. His family moved to Gulfport when John was four. John was a 1962 graduate of Gulfport High School, playing on GHS’s championship football team and was selected to play in the Mississippi All-Star Game. He attended Mississippi State University on a football scholarship. He earned his B.S. degree from MSU and his M.S. from William Carey College.

After college, John worked briefly in banking and insurance sales, and then coached football and taught at Gulfport East High School for a number of years. His final career was with the Mississippi Air National Guard from which he retired in 1998 as Director of Logistics at the Air National Guard Training Site in Gulfport.

John was a longtime member of the Rotary Club of Long Beach, where he served as club President, was a Paul Harris Fellow, and served a term as District Governor of Rotary District 6840 in 2002-03. He served a term on the Long Beach School Board, including a year as President. He was a lifelong member of Gulfport First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), where he served in numerous positions and was an Elder Emeritus.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Okel and Mildred; his grandparents, sister-in-law, and niece.

He is survived by Mary Annette Oden Castleberry, his wife of almost 49 years; his sons, John Brady Castleberry, II of Las Vegas, NV; Patrick Oden Castleberry of Long Beach, MS; and Eric Mitchell Castleberry (Kellsi) of Metairie, LA; brother Okel Castleberry; nephew Clark Castleberry and family; brother-in-law Martin Mitchell Oden; two cousins; and grandpup, Archer.

There will be a public graveside service at Long Beach City Cemetery on Friday, October 16, 2020, at 11:00 A.M.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gulfport First Christian Church (DOC), P. O. Box 1536, Gulfport, MS 39502; The Rotary Foundation (www.rotary.org) , or an organization of choice.

Nicholas (Nick) M. Monaco

April 29, 1930 – October 11, 2020

Nicholas M. Monaco, age 90, passed away on October 11, 2020, at his home in Jefferson City, MO; and was born on April 29, 1930, in St. Louis, MO to Michael Monaco and Concetta Bevilacqua Monaco. Nick was married to Mildred Picket Monaco who predeceased Nick in death on September 6, 2009.

Nick’s early life was spent working with his parents in the family bakery in St. Louis, MO. After graduating from Christian Brothers College High School (“CBC”) in St Louis, MO, Nick attended the University of Missouri, Columbia, MO. Following graduation Nick served in the Unites States Air Force until his retirement from the Reserves with the rank of Lt. Colonel. While stationed at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, AZ, Nick met the love of his life, Mildred Pickett. Upon release from active duty with the loving support from Mildred, Nick graduated from the University Of Missouri School Of Law in 1958. Upon being admitted to the Missouri Bar Association in August of 1958, Nick was appointed as Assistant Counsel at the Missouri Division of Insurance where he became Chief Counsel and Acting Superintendent of Insurance. As an advocate of insurance regulation for the protection of Missouri policyholders, he joined Forrest Carson and John Inglish, becoming at that time the Law Firm of Carson, Inglish & Monaco, P.C., adding insurance regulation to their well-established practices in 1962. Nick’s practice of law continued for over 60 years in Jefferson City, MO, during which he co-founded the Federation of Regulatory Counsel (“FORC”) now a national organization of insurance regulatory attorneys. Nick transitioned from practicing as an active Member of Inglish & Monaco, P.C., to serving in his capacity as Of Counsel to the firm in the later years of his law practice in Jefferson City, MO.

In addition to Nick’s law practice, he became engaged in community service including Boy Scouts as Scout Master, Boy Scout District Chairman, receiving one of the highest Boy Scout awards, the Silver Beaver; Rotary Club President and Rotary District Governor; and an Advisory Board Member of SSM St. Mary’s Foundation and a Board Member of the SSM St. Mary’s Board of Directors; a Missouri Insurance Education Foundation co-founder with past directors of insurance; and the University of Missouri Alumni Association Board Member. As a member of the Air Force Reserves, Monaco worked with the Jefferson City High School Junior ROTC program teaching the Uniform Code of Military Justice for seven years to high school students.

Nick and Mildred were active members of Immaculate Conception Parish of Jefferson City, MO, and of the Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulcher. Nick was active in the Immaculate Conception Holy Name Society and served as president of the Immaculate Conception Home & School Association and the Immaculate Conception Parish Counsel.

Monaco was a member of the Cole County Bar Association, St. Louis Bar Association, Missouri Bar Association and American Bar Association. He was also admitted to practice before the Eighth and Ninth United States Circuit Courts of Appeals located in St. Louis and San Francisco, and the Supreme Court of the United States. As a community minded supporter, Nick sought opportunities for new business as a board member of the Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce, was a member of the Chamber’s Committee of Fifty, and as the Chamber’s Vice President helped to attract Scholastic, Inc. and Chesebrough Ponds to locate in Jefferson City. Nick was active in the Jefferson City YMCA expansion to the current locations on Ellis Blvd and on Stadium Blvd. in Jefferson City, MO. As an alumnus of the University of Missouri, he was a charter member of the University of Missouri Alumni Alliance when the University adopted the four-campus system, becoming the first president.

Nick and Mildred made their home in Jefferson City in 1955, where they became early advocates of historic preservation, being active in the Cole County Historical Society, and completed a one-year restoration in 1965 of the Vineyard Place, which was originally built in 1828 and completed in 1846; the Parker House, built in 1904; and the Monroe House, built in 1884. Nick was Foundation Board President of Historic City of Jefferson (“HCJ”); member of the Jefferson City Redistricting Commission 1960, 1970, and 1980; and Capitol Avenue Landmark League Board Member. Also, Nick was a member of the Jefferson City Country Club, and was involved in the JC Downtown Business Association as president and a board member.

Nick was preceded in death by his loving wife Mildred, his parents, and his younger brother Anthony Monaco. He is survived by his children: Catherine Monaco Moore and husband Clifford Ray Moore, Jr. of Frankston, TX, Ann Monaco Warren and husband Mark G. R. Warren of Jefferson City, MO, and Michael E. Monaco and wife Cynthia Fay Monaco of Lee’s Summit, MO; grandchildren: Clifford Ray Moore III and wife Karey McPhee Moore of Frankston, TX, Catherine Elizabeth LeFevre of Frankston, TX, Mary Grace Monaco Warren of St. Louis, MO, Frederick Monroe Warren III of Jefferson City MO, Christina Ann Rellergert and husband Aaron Rellergert of Lee’s Summit, MO., and Nicholas Gerard Monaco of Macon, GA; and great grandchildren: Kennedy Catherine LeFevre and Jameson E Autry LeFevre of Frankston, TX, and Siena Rose Rellergert, Sloane Avery Rellergert and Stella Ray Rellergert of Lee’s Summit, MO; and Nick’s sister Teresa Monaco of Jefferson City, MO.

A Private Funeral Mass of Christian Burial with Interment at Resurrection Cemetery has been arranged due to the Covid-19 Pandemic with Reverend Don Antweiler officiating.

In lieu of flowers, any memorial contributions may be made in Nick’s name to the Central Missouri Honor Flight; Immaculate Conception Parish, Jefferson City, MO; the SSM St. Mary’s Foundation, Jefferson City, MO or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Dr. Robert L. Lynn

September 8, 202

Dr. Robert L. Lynn, 88, died September 8, 2020 in Norman, OK, after several years battling Parkinson’s Disease.

He is remembered for his passionate and compassionate leadership as an inclusive university president for over 22 years, as an avid Rotarian and Rotary District Governor, managing editor, journalist and writer; as an award-winning writer of his inspiring poem “Cancer is So Limited”; and as a gracious husband, father and grandfather.

He was born November 19, 1931 to Warren Amos Lynn and Mary Emma Johnston Lynn at their modest homestead in Fox, Oklahoma’s arid hills, surrounded by oil derricks.

Lynn graduated from Fox High School in 1949, while serving as music director of Fox Baptist Church with his twin sister Betty as pianist. He earned his BA degree from Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) in Shawnee, OK, and subsequently earned Master’s degrees at Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He earned his Ph.D at the University of Oklahoma in Higher Education Administration, and a Harvard University Leadership Certificate.

At OBU on a track scholarship he competed in the 800m and mile, met his wife Bonnie, and reported sports for The Shawnee (OK) News-Star. From 1953 to 1967, he was a writer and managing editor at All Church Press in Fort Worth,Texas.

From 1967-1975, he was a Vice President and then served as interim president for a year at Oklahoma Baptist University, mentored by Grady C. Cothen. He was an active member of the Shawnee Kiwanis Club.

Lynn became president of Louisiana College (LC) July 1, 1975. At LC, Lynn wrote a column for the state Baptist newspaper, the Baptist Message. Lynn was beloved by his students and strived to know each by name. He connected with students, faculty and staff via his original poems and was often found in his outdoor “president’s office” bench swing.

He served on the commission of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, council of presidents of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, and the Association of Southern Baptist Colleges and Schools. He served on many civic boards including United Way and Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce.

Under Lynn’s presidency, LC received national recognition for academic quality and Christian atmosphere. The institution was recognized by U.S. News and World Report, “Barron’s 300 Best College Buys”, and the Templeton Foundation’s “Honor Roll for Character-Building Colleges”. His leadership achieved 22 years of no-deficit budgets, substantial endowment funding, and various building projects and expansions. He valued his long-term administrative team, faculty and staff as partners in education and as friends, and he supported alumni well beyond college.

A Rotarian for over 44, he valued service above self, embracing Rotary International’s worldwide projects, serving as president of Alexandria, LA Rotary Club and as a District Governor in Louisiana. Upon retirement, he continued active Rotary service in Duluth, GA, and helped charter 10 new Rotary Clubs in Louisiana and Georgia. He was a Paul Harris Fellow and bestowed that honor on many family members and friends.

Lynn authored four poetry books including “Service Yields Its Own Rewards” a collection of Rotary themed poems. He authored “Cancer Is So Limited” a poem which has given hope to millions across the globe, published in 2013 in the book “Cancer Is So Limited and Other Poems of Faith,” preceded in 2009 by his book “Midnight Verse.” Traveling across the region, he shared verses with 63 Rotary Clubs. In later years he conducted poetry workshops in elementary classrooms across Georgia, and was active in poetry societies in Georgia, North Carolina, Alabama and Oklahoma earning numerous awards.

From his high school years, Lynn faithfully led in his church communities as a deacon, in music ministries and as a Sunday School teacher. He visited home-bound church members weekly for decades. He wrote and led a series of interactive lessons for adult Sunday School classes, publishing collections of their memoirs of faith.

He championed education, social justice, and equality. He brought speakers to LC’s campus to discuss perspectives on national and global issues including President Jimmy Carter, former Louisiana Governor Jimmie Davis, and leaders of Historically Black Colleges and Universities as well as classmates and friends astronaut Bill Pogue and journalist Bill Moyers. Lynn exchanged international visits with a Chinese educational delegation, and in 1998 served as a UNICEF educational consultant to the government of Somaliland, spending six weeks abroad to help develop the new country’s educational system. Among many awards, he and his wife, Dr. Bonnie Lynn, both received OBU’s Alumni Achievement Award in 1983. Lynn was the first ever recipient of the Bill Bradley Leadership Award, sponsored by the James MacGregor Burns Academy of Leadership at the 1988 Leadership for a New Century Conference.

He was an avid runner, logging two miles a day into his 80’s and loved to fish, travel, golf, garden and spend time with family, who lovingly addressed him as Doc.

Robert L. Lynn is survived by his college sweetheart and wife of 68 years, Bonnie Moore Lynn; daughter Susy Lynn Calonkey and husband Steve of Norman, OK; son Christopher and wife Angie of Asheville, NC; Grandchildren Rob Calonkey, Katelynn Calonkey Henry and husband Dillon, Darcey Lynn, Jessica Lynn, Audrey Lynn, and great grand-daughter, Clara Henry. His brother Bill Lynn and wife Jane of Pasadena, CA, and sister in law Helen Moore Montgomery of McKinney, TX and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and infant son Robert Lee Lynn, Jr.; siblings Doris Lynn Taylor, Kane Lynn, Don Lynn, and twin sister Betty Lynn Thomas.

Max W. Ernest

October 11, 2020

Mr. Max W. Ernest, 90, of Seymour, died on Sunday, October 11, 2020 at 11:46 a.m. at Schneck Medical Center. He was born July 21, 1930 in Jackson County to the late Henry and Glydia Ernest. He married Virginia Picklesimer on July 16, 1963 in Seymour.
Max graduated from Seymour High School in 1948. He graduated from Franklin College. Max retired from Jackson County Bank as Executive Vice President. He also served as a Trust Officer and was the founder of the trust department. He was a past district Governor of Rotary International as well as a Korean War Veteran and Mason.

Family and friends may call at Voss & Sons Funeral Service on Friday, October 16 from 12:00 noon until time of service. A Masonic service will be held at 1:15 pm. Funeral services for Max will be conducted at 1:30 pm with Rev. Robin Everheart officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery with full military graveside rites conducted by VFW Post 1925, American Legion Post 89, Disabled Veterans 47, Korean and Vietnam Veterans, all of Seymour. (Masks are respectfully required within Voss & Sons Funeral Service)

Max and Virginia had two children, Jeffrey Max Ernest and Paul “Wesley” Ernest, both survive. Also surviving are grandchildren, Clay Ernest, Sara Ernest, Chad Ernest, Isaac Ernest and 6 great-grandchildren Daisy Ernest, Delany Hauersberger, Madelyn Davers, Delyla Ernest, Briceon Ernest and Brealei Ernest.

He was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife; and brother, Lynn Ernest.

Memorials may be written to Greater Seymour Trust Fund – FTBO Mande Welch Fund, in care of Voss & Sons Funeral Service.

Charles N. “Shot” Nunley

July 26, 1937 – September 07, 2020

A Titan in service to church, community and humanity—Charles Newman (Shot) Nunley—died Monday morning [September 7} at his McMinnville home after being diagnosed last month with pancreatic cancer. A career educator and engineer, he was 83.

Born July 26 1937 to Jesse L and Fanny Belle Nunley, he and his family were long associated with the Mt Zion community, for which he served as unofficial but enthusiastic historian. He was an elder in McMinnville’s First Presbyterian Church, where he was a member since 1945. His wife of 60 years, Patti (Patricia), survives, along with daughter, Susan Marttala (husband David), and son, Charles N Nunley, Jr (wife Allison), and five grandchildren: Shelby, Will and Lilly Marttala, and Erin and Morgan Nunley.

After graduating from McMinnville Central High School, where he played in the Bulldogs Marching Band, Nunley earned the BS in mechanical engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he played trumpet in the famed Pride of the Southland Band. Pursuing diverse interests in his vocation and professional career, he later earned a Master’s in Education at Middle Tennessee State University and was a graduate of the Education for Ministry Program at the University of the South School of Theology in Sewanee.

Nunley’s career included work for the US Navy Department as a mechanical engineer on the Dyna-Soar Project at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton OH, and at the supersonic wind tunnel at Arnold Engineering Development Center near Tullahoma. He retired in year 2000 after many years as director of the State Area Vocational Technical School in McMinnville.

Among his numerous activities in the civic and social life of Warren County, he was one of the longest-serving members of the McMinnville Silver & Gold Band, the oldest continuously functioning community band in Tennessee. His public service involvement continued in his duties as chair of the local chapter of the American Red Cross and as trustee of Magness Memorial Library as well as a director of the Upper Cumberland Regional Library board. In his service with the Warren County Economic and Community Development Committee (predecessor of the Industrial Development Board), Nunley played a major role in landing the mammoth Bridgestone Warren Tire Plant near Morrison.

In honor of his accomplishments, the McMinnville-Warren County Chamber of Commerce conferred its Free Enterprise Award on Nunley in 1988, and in 1999 he was cited for the McMinnville Evening Exchange Club’s Recognition Award. He was also a member of the Tennessee Valley Regional Aerospace Committee.

Nunley is probably best remembered for his leadership in The Rotary Club of McMinnville, which was chartered in 1923 as a local affiliate of Rotary International, which was founded a couple of years earlier in Chicago with a mission to initiate and support humanitarian programs in the US and in under-served places around the world.

Not long after joining McMinnville Rotary Club in 1970, he held a number of offices, leading ultimately to the presidency. Meanwhile, he was active in Rotary International’s District 6780, which comprises local clubs in much of East Tennessee and the eastern part of Middle Tennessee. At the district level Nunley held several major positions and was elected as district governor, serving in 1998-99. A Paul Harris Fellow (named in honor of one of Rotary’s founders), Nunley was honored with the Rotary Foundation District Service Award for 2000-2001.

“Shot Nunley was one of those exceptional people who lead through the power of their example,” said Shane Brock, immediate past president of Noon Rotary and a vice-president of Citizens Tri-County Bank.

“From his years of work on the local and district level, Shot saw the many ways Rotary’s energy and compassion went deep into the roots of communities and nourished human development, health, education and prosperity for millions of people worldwide,” Brock commented.

A friend from early childhood and fellow Rotarian for decades, Dr Neil Schultz, remembered Nunley as an accomplished musician in the Central High marching band and decades later as leader of Shot in the Dark, a local combo of mostly Rotarians who traveled to entertain at several Rotary conventions and programs. Other band members included wife Patti on the mandolin and son Charles Jr on banjo.

Schultz cited 1945 as a milestone year in McMinnville. Not only did the year see the end of World War II but also the arrival of the Nunley family on Roundhouse Street, along with their fourth-grader son Shot. The little group of friends came to be known as the Roundhouse Gang and included future mayor Dr Norman Rone, future Circuit Court Judge Charles (Chuck) Haston, Dr Jimmy Jones, Campbell Smoot Jr and Allen Myers.

Retired family physician Dr Wallace Bigbee, another veteran of Rotary service, cited Nunley’s successful leadership, along with his wife, Patti, as sponsors for student members of Warren County High School’s Rotary Interact Club. It was then that the local Interact established a tradition of excellence and dominance in state and national talent competitions.

“Shot always had a great heart for service and for giving,” observed Rotary District 6780 Governor Ron Appuhn. “He was spontaneous and generous in his giving, whether it be his experience, time or counsel. He was an effective mentor for many Rotary leaders at the district level. In this sense, his service will be a perpetual, living memorial to his work among us.”

The Nunley family suggests that any gifts in remembrance be directed to the Rotary International Foundation, First Presbyterian Church or Magness Memorial Library.

The graveside service for PDG ‘Shot’ Nunley will be tomorrow, September 9, 11:00 am CT, at Mt Zion Cemetery near the Viola township in southern Warren County (closest access is from SR 108). High’s Funeral Home in McMinnville is in charge of arrangements.”

Mary Jo Duke

July 24, 1935 – September 3, 2020

Mary Jo Hamlin Duke, age 85 of Clinton passed away 10:24 am Thursday, September 3, 2020 at the Clinton Place. Mary Jo was a member of First Assembly of God and former owner of Edwards Trucking, active in the Rotary Club and a Mary Kay Consultant.

She is survived by her husband, Joseph “Joe” Duke of Clinton; Sister, Norma Jean Byrd of South Fulton, TN and Several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her Parents, Albert Monroe Hamlin and Ester Mae Harrison Hamlin. 4 Brothers, Johnny, Arvell, James and Charlie Hamlin and Sister Ruth Caksackkar.

Funeral Services will be held 2 PM Sunday at the Brown Funeral Home in Clinton with Rev. Bob Risner officiating. Burial will follow in the Pleasant View Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held after 11a.m. on Sunday at the Brown Funeral Home in Clinton.

Donations: Clinton First Assembly of God Missions, c/o Bertha Davis, 202 State Route 58 East, Clinton, KY 42031 or Clinton Rotary Club Scholarship Fund (checks payable to: Clinton Rotary Club), c/o Rick Canty, P.O. Box 217, Clinton, KY 42031.

William (Bill) W. Baldwin, Ph.D.

August 25, 2020

William (Bill) W. Baldwin, Ph.D., 80, passed away Tuesday, August 25, 2020 in Ft. Wayne, IN.

Born in Fort Wayne, IN on July 27, 1940 to Hiram and Ethel (Smith) Baldwin. Resident of Fort Wayne, IN and formerly of Gary, IN (Miller Beach), and Snow Lake, Fremont, IN; married to Sharon M Sutton on June 25, 1975. Bill was a graduate of Indiana Central College and received his Masters and PhD from Indiana University, Bloomington.

He retired after 42 years of combined educational service from Indiana University Northwest Medical School in 2005 as Assistant Dean and Executive Director of the Northwest Center for Medical Education, Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, and in his early career a teacher at George Washington High School in Indianapolis IN. He was the 2005 recipient of the distinguished Sagamore of Wabash Award; a member of: Rotary International in which he was the 2004-2005 Governor, District 6540; and the United States Power Squadron. He and Sharon enjoyed travelling, playing golf, and he was an avid fisherman.

He is survived by daughter Kimberly C. Covell-Campbell and son-in-law Frank Campbell, Osawatomie, KS; step-grand-daughter, Krystle Campbell (Ryan Gindlesperger), Pittsburg, PA; brother-in-law Wayne Lantz, Fort Wayne, IN; and numerous cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Joanne B. Lantz and Alvera M. Shaw, brother-in-law David R. Shaw, and nephew David J. Shaw.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Rotary International or Indiana University Northwest School of Medicine

A Graveside Service will be held at 11 am Monday, August 31, 2020 at Mt. Zion United Methodist Cemetery, Pleasant Lake, Indiana. Dr. William Smith will officiate the service. Due to the current pandemic masks will be required. Internment provided by Beams Funeral Home, Fremont, Indiana.

Condolences may be sent online to www.beamsfuneralhome.com.

George P. Ziebold

August 25, 2020

George P. Ziebold, 94, of Waterloo, died Aug. 25, 2020, in St. Louis. He was born July 3, 1926, in St. Louis, son of the late George C. and Viola (nee Pinkel) Ziebold.

George was a member of Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Waterloo, a U.S. Merchant Marine Veteran, member of Waterloo Rotary Club (past district governor) and former owner of Ziebold Home Utilities.

He is survived by his wife Noreen Ziebold (nee Burris); nephews and niece Chris Ziebold, Steven (Pat) Ziebold, William (Delores) Conner, Marqui Jones; additional nieces and nephews; great nieces and great nephews.

George is preceded in death by his brother Paul Ziebold; sisters Margaret Esther Fuller, Rosemarie Ziebold and Mary Conner; and niece Sandra Ziebold.

Visitation will be from 2-7 p.m. Aug. 30 at 8-9:30 a.m. Aug. 31 at Quernheim Funeral Home in Wateroo.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Aug. 31 at Ss. Peter & Paul Church in Waterloo.

Interment will follow at Ss. Peter & Paul Cemetery in Waterloo.

As an expression of sympathy, the family prefers memorial contributions to: Waterloo Rotary Tree of Lights or Ss. Peter & Paul Education Endowment Fund.

John M. Brodbeck

August 15, 2020

It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we announce the passing of Past District Governor, John Brodbeck, John passed away on August 15, 2020, at the age of 85 from heart failure.

John Brodbeck was born on November 2, 1934, in Swanton, Ohio. He was raised in a three bedroom farmhouse with his parents and six siblings. John learned at an early age the impact that giving could have a person when he was gifted $1.00 every Christmas from his cousins.

After graduating high school, John enlisted in the U.S. Army and served his country for two years. Then, he was onto college at Bowling Green State University on a GI Bill. He was a member of the varsity wrestling team and the Kappa Sigma fraternity. In true John fashion, he graduated in under three years with a degree in business.

John met the love of his life, Marilee, in his hometown during the summer of 1958 and, on August 12, 1961, they married after graduating from college. Following graduation, John began selling animal pharmaceuticals to Tyson and other large poultry companies in Southern Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. In 1963, he was offered a job as General Manager of Lipscomb Caribbean, Ltd, that would take him and his growing family to Trinidad.

John and his family would spend the next twelve years enjoying life in the Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago. In 1968, John became a charter member of The Rotary Club of St. Augustine where he served as Club President. Ultimately, joining Rotary would become one of the most pivotal moments in John’s life.

John and his family returned to the U.S. in 1974 and settled back in their hometown where John became President of the family business, The Pilliod Co. John continued his love of service as President of the Swanton School Board, Sunday school teacher at Trinity United Methodist Church, mentor and honorary wrestling coach with Swanton High School, member of the Zoning and Planning Commission and, Club President of the Swanton Rotary Club. He would also served as District Governor for Rotary District 6600 for two terms.

In 1998, John sold the family business and retired to Holiday Island, AR. Retirement did not slow John down a bit! He served as Chairman of the Carroll County Republican Party, President of his HOA, and, once again, he served as Club President with Rotary Club of Eureka Springs for two terms.

Ultimately, life would lead the Brodbeck’s to Springdale, Arkansas. Once in Springdale, John immediately joined the Rotary Club of Springdale and was very active in the club as well as Rotary District 6110. John and Marilee Brodbeck were honored by Rotary District 6110 in 2018 at the annual Rotary Foundation Banquet Ceremony for their contributions and service to Rotary. It is impossible to list all of John’s personal and professional awards, accolades and accomplishments. John’s proudest and most loved memories surround his beloved family including his wife, Marilee, their two daughters, Debra and Jonna, and his grandchildren.

There will be a private memorial service at Heritage Funeral Home on Saturday, August 22, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. The Memorial Service will be live-streamed on Facebook for all of John’s family and friends around the globe to participate. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his honor to the Springdale Rotary Charitable Foundation, PO Box 6006, Springdale, AR, 72766.

John Oakley Childs

August 18, 2020

John Oakley Childs of Tyler went to be with his savior on August 18, 2020 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his family. A memorial service will be held Thursday, August 20, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. in the Green Acres Baptist Church Chapel, with Dr. David Dykes, Rev. Warren Culwell, and Rev. Woody Woodward officiating. A private burial will take place prior to the service at Rose Hill Cemetery. On Wednesday, August 19, 2020, a viewing will be held from noon to 7:00 p.m. at Stewart Family Funeral Home.

Dukie was born and raised in Jacksonville, Texas. He was affectionately known to family as little brother, Dad, Pops and Ruff Ruff. Fish Childs entered Texas A & M in the Fall of 1949. His class, the Class of 1953. was the last class to live at the Annex. He graduated from Texas A & M College in Aug 1953 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and has a Master’s Degree in Personnel Administration from The George Washington University.

During his years at Texas A & M, Childs was a member of the corps of cadets, a terrific P Head, company commander of an all Fish Infantry Company and a senior yell leader. He was a charter member of the Memorial Student Center Student Committee.
One of his favorite stories went, as follows: “Not many people know of the time I “met” L.G. Dupree, Baylor’s tough running back on the Baylor campus the night before the Aggie football game, and the reason is that it was a stupid and naive thing to do and I praise God I was able to get out of Waco with my life and boots.”

Upon graduation A & M, Dukie was commissioned a second lieutenant of Infantry in the Regular Army. Childs served over 21 years in the U.S. Army, primarily as an Infantry unit commander. He had two tours of duty in Viet Nam and commanded the 2nd Battalion of the 506th Airborne Infantry, 101st Airborne Division in combat. (This is the Battalion that was home to the “Band of Brothers” rifle company.) He was a qualified paratrooper, a Ranger and received several combat decorations including the Bronze Star for Valor and the Distinguished Flying Cross. John’s military career culminated at West Texas State University in Canyon, Texas where he served as the Professor of Military Science. He retired as an Infantry Lieutenant Colonel in 1974.
In Canyon, John served as marketing officer for the First National Bank for four years. He was an active member of several civic organizations including serving as President of the Canyon Chamber of Commerce. In 1978, John and his family moved to Tyler, Texas where he was Senior Vice President for marketing at Heritage National Bank. In 1986, John began a new career as instructor in the School of Business and Director of Continuing Education at the University of Texas in Tyler. He retired as Business Officer of Jacksonville College in Jacksonville, Texas in 1994.

Civic organizations have been a top priority of service. He was a Rotarian for over forty years and served in two separate clubs, the Rotary Clubs of Canyon and Tyler. John served in various capacities at the club and district level and was District Governor of District 5830 in 1994-95. During that year, he initiated the first RYLA program for the District.

He gained his nickname “One O’clock John” during his year as District Governor for the brevity of his speeches and desire that Rotary meetings be kept short and to the point. “One O’clock” John was a top-notch instructor from 1996 to 2008 at the Lone Star Presidents Elect Training Seminar which was responsible for training Rotary Club Presidents for the state of Texas. He served as the Operating Chair for the Lone Star Presidents Elect Training Seminar in 2002. John also served as president of the Smith County American Cancer Society and served on the following boards: Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Tyler-Smith County A & M Club, East Texas Deaf and Hearing Council and the Tyler Independent School District. John was also on the Board of Trustees of East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, past board member of San Marcos Baptist Academy, and the Paraguay Baptist Hospital Foundation.

Dukie was an active member of Green Acres Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and taught a large adult Sunday school class for over forty years.

Family was a priority to John, He married Thelma Ruth Stephens of Leesville, Louisiana, The Love Of His Life. They have three sons, John Oakley Childs Jr., a special needs boy who is cared for by the state of Louisiana, Stephen (Brenda) of Tyler, and Charlie (Lisa) of Kingwood. There are six grandchildren, Allison, Brian (Allie), Hannah, Catherine of Houston, Clint (Brittany) of Tyler, Chris (Jessica) of Alexandria Va.; and two great-grandsons, Oakley Childs of Alexandria Va. and Sam Childs of Houston.
John (little brother) loved his sisters, Peggy Ann Morrison of Fort Worth and Nancy Loper of Tyler; as well as four nephews and 3 nieces.

John Oakley liked to make memories. Like taking his grandsons to every game of the last season southwest conference, no matter what the weather. Cooking sausages on the ashes of the Aggie Bonfire early in the morning cannot be forgotten. Christmas was a magical time as family gathered for the annual John Childs scavenger hunt. This came complete with clues created by Pops and placed goodness knows where. Our responsibility was to solve the clues and find the treasure. You can imagine the chaos!

John, Johnny, Dukie, Dad, Uncle John, Pops, One’Oclock John, no matter how you knew him he was never boring!! Heaven got a good one.

In lieu of flowers the family would greatly appreciate any memorial to The Hospice of East Texas Foundation, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, Texas 75707 or Green Acres Baptist Church Foundation, 1607 Troup Hwy, Tyler, Texas 75701.
Gig Em!

Judith “Judy” Ann Bush

April 18, 1943 – August 10, 2020

Judith A. “Judy” Bush, 77, of rural Heltonville, died at home Monday, August 10, 2020 after her almost three-year struggle with cancer. She was born on April 18, 1943, in Clinton, Indiana. She was the daughter of Tony and Christine (Krapesh) Bogetto.

Judy graduated from Clinton High School and received bachelor’s, master’s, EdS. and PhD degrees from Indiana State University. She had a 46-year career in public education starting as a math teacher at Woodrow Wilson Junior High School in Terre Haute in 1965 and later becoming Dean of Girls. In 1973 daughter Christina came along and after a leave she went back as a teacher at Chauncy Rose Junior High School. She joined the staff at Terre Haute North Vigo High School in 1977 as a Dean of Students. From then until 1999 she was a Counselor, Head Counselor, Assistant Principal and Principal. Some might still remember her being back at work in the evening walking the seven-acre building with her faithful Aussie, Wolfie. In 1999 she accepted the position as Superintendent for the Attica Consolidated School Corporation in Attica, Indiana. She remained there until she retired in 2011. Being in Attica was one of the highlights of her career. She still considered so many as good friends. She was always supportive of students and teachers and saw the good in each person.

The same year she joined North, she and husband John bought 115 acres northeast of Terre Haute. Until the move to Attica in 1999, they enjoyed living in the beautiful valley with farm ground, hilly pastures, hay fields and woods filled with morel mushrooms in secret locations. Taking care of the cattle or cutting firewood was a great relief from the hectic pace at school. John knew Judy’s winter job was to walk back to the barn and feed the hay after changing into her farm clothes. It was also a great place to raise daughter Christina who belonged to 4-H for 10 years. Helping her with a difficult show steer sometimes would take the tenacity of a High School Principal. She also had a talent for calmly walking into a pen of calves to be sorted for loading out and getting them separated in contrast to John yelling and poking at them with a stick.

Judy joined the Attica-Williamsport Rotary Club in 2001 after giving a program for them as the new school Superintendent. She viewed Rotary as one of the most worthwhile organizations for doing good in the world. She served two terms as club President, District 6560 Assistant Governor and District Foundation Committee. She made many Rotary friends in central Indiana.

For Judy, retired was just a title to describe not having a job where you get paid. In the summer of 2011, she and John moved halfway between Bloomington and Bedford to the three-acre corner adjoining thirty acres where daughter, Christina, and Jon raised produce for the Farmers Market. John described it as the “middle of nowhere” adjoining Hoosier National Forest. He became the unpaid hired hand.

They transferred their membership from Attica First Lutheran to St. Thomas Lutheran Church in Bloomington. They visited the Bedford Rotary Club and then transferred membership from the Attica-Williamsport Rotary Club.

Judy volunteered for the church Finance Committee and the Worship Committee and had started a term on the church Council this year. She discovered the connection to Monroe County United Ministries (MCUM) and agreed to become a board member. She was involved in many of the fundraisers and other MCUM activities that helped so many in the community.

She almost immediately agreed to become the secretary for the Bedford Rotary Club which included providing a weekly article for the newspaper. Bedford Rotary had inbound and outbound Rotary Youth Exchange students every year going back to 1989. Judy volunteered to be a part of that program and enjoyed getting to know the students and families of students going to other countries for a year or inbound coming here for year to experience life in America. She made the yearly trip to Grand Rapids for the Youth Exchange gathering and accompanied students on trips as part of their experience. A fun one was going with District Youth Exchange Chair, Santhana Naidu, to Washington DC with students from several other countries. Rotary Youth Exchange is one of the most recognized programs of Rotary.

Bedford Rotary volunteered to help every fourth Saturday at The Teachers Warehouse in Bloomington. Of course, Judy became that regular volunteer. She was asked to join the board and became acquainted with many members from the three Rotary clubs in Bloomington.

Her previous association with many good Rotary friends in District 6560 and her years of volunteer leadership work in District 6580 culminated in Judy being chosen to become the District Governor for Rotary year 2017-18. She viewed this as a great honor and worked hard to do the best job for all the Rotary clubs in Southern Indiana. She worked with the District Governors (and many volunteer members) from northern Indiana (6540) and central Indiana (6560) to have an ALL Indiana Rotary conference in Indianapolis. The first all Indiana conference since 1938. Her efforts were interrupted by major surgery in November 2017 to remove a tumor. She recovered and enjoyed being a part of the conference in April 2018.

Judy and John attended the Toronto Rotary International Convention in June of 2018. The return of cancer was discovered a few weeks before and the trip was cut short so she could start chemo on her last day as District Governor. She never gave up and thought she could beat this dread disease just as she had prevailed so many times before with her life experiences.

Judy is survived by John, her husband of 56 years, and daughter Christina. A sister, Nancy Ewick and nieces and nephews, Jeff Bogetto (Stephanie), Paulette Bogetto, Daryl Ewick, Carla Mosley (Michael), and Tom Ewick (Selena)

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Anton Bogetto Jr.
Judy always wanted a complete funeral service at the church with communion. That is not possible now with restrictions due to Covid-19. A celebration of her life will take place later.

Her ashes will be placed in the St Thomas Lutheran Church Columbarium.

Donations in her memory can be made to St. Thomas Lutheran Church, The Rotary Foundation, MCUM or The Teachers Warehouse.

Julie Boudousquie

November 13, 1936 – July 8, 2020

James William Miller

1928 – 2020

James William Miller, age 91, died of natural causes on July 14, 2020. He was born November 30, 1928, in Lancaster to Winfred Cornelius (Boo) and Lucile Belle Deffenbaugh Miller.

After graduating from Lancaster High School in 1946, he attended Indiana University and graduated from The Ohio State University in 1950. While serving as an officer in the U. S. Army in Japan during the Korean War, he met California girl Sarah Louise Taff. They married in 1953. He graduated from The Ohio State University College of Law in 1955.

Mr. Miller joined his father in the law firm of Deffenbaugh and Miller which was established by his grandfather, Attorney James William Deffenbaugh, in 1902. In 1985, the firm of Deffenbaugh and Miller merged with the firm of Dagger, Johnston, Ogilvie, Charles and Hampson and Mr. Miller continued his association with this firm, now known as Dagger, Johnston, Miller, Ogilvie and Hampson, until his retirement in 2010.

A lifetime resident of Lancaster, he was a lion of the community as was his father before him. He was treasured by his friends and his colleagues in the practice of Law as a great wit and raconteur, a perennial Master of Ceremonies at community events, and a tireless booster of Lancaster.

Mr. Miller dedicated his life to public service. He followed his father and grandfather as President of the Lancaster and Fairfield County Chamber of Commerce. He was President of the Community Improvement Corporation, United Way, Lancaster Rotary Club, the Lancaster Country Club, Coordinating Council of Ohio University-Lancaster. He served as Rotary District 669 Governor for 1976-1977. He was a member of the American Legion and St. John’s Episcopal Church.

He was President of the Fairfield County Bar Association and served on the Council of Delegates of the Ohio State Bar Association for nine years and the Executive Committee of the Ohio State Bar Association for three years. He was selected to be a member of the Ohio Bar Foundation and was also a member of the American Bar Association.

He was Secretary of the City of Lancaster Board of Park Commissioners for 32 years. His grandfather wrote the deed for Rising Park and was the first Secretary of the Board serving for 28 years. His father served as Secretary for 23 years. The three generations served as Secretary of the Board for 83 years.

Among the awards presented to him over the years were the C. Floyd Wolfe Community Service Award by the Chamber of Commerce in 1990; the President’s Award for outstanding contributions to the Chamber of Commerce in 1988; the “Pearl of the Parks” by the Friends of the Parks in 1993; the Citizen of the Year by the Lancaster Board of Realtors in 1994; the Jaycee Distinguished Service Award in 1963; and the Paul Harris Fellowship from the Rotary Foundation. He served as Governor of District 669 (Southeastern Ohio) of Rotary International for 1967 – 1968.

He was a longtime member of the Board of Trustees of the Fairfield County Automobile Club, and after its merger served several years as a corporate Board member of the Ohio Auto Club. He was a member for a number of years of the Board of Directors of the Westerman Companies, and of the Board of Directors of the Frank E. Smith Funeral Home, Inc.

Mr. Miller was preceded in death by his daughter, Marilyn Jean Miller, and his wife of 65 years, Sarah. His surviving children are Michael James Miller of Los Angeles, California, Stephen William Miller (Kim) of Pickerington, Ohio, and Maryjane Leverett Miller Hotaling (Clark) of Webster Groves, Missouri. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Nicholas William Miller of Pickerington, Ohio, Sarah Katherine Miller Loper (Paul) of Powell, Ohio, Jackson Leverett Hotaling and Thomas Daley Hotaling of Webster Groves, Missouri, and one great granddaughter, Lily Loper.

He was preceded in death by his parents, W. C. (Boo) and Lucile D. Miller, grandparents James W. and Mary Deffenbaugh and Max and Adele Miller, and an infant sister, Marlyn Ann Miller.

Friends may wish to contribute to The Friends of the Parks, 1507 E. Main Street, Lancaster, Ohio 43130.

Mr. Miller’s family wishes to thank family friend Teri Ebersbach, the fine staff at Main Street Terrace Care Center, and FAIRHOPE Hospice.

The family will hold a graveside service at Forest Rose Cemetery at 11AM on Saturday, officiated by Father Seth Wymer and the Lancaster Veterans Burial Detail. Due to Covid-19, we request people to remain in their car and drive by the family to give their condolences. A memorial gathering will be planned for a later date when we may safely assemble to celebrate Jim in the exuberant manner he deserves. Arrangements are under the direction of the Frank E. Smith Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.funeralhome.com

John Dewey Salyers

November 24, 1947 – July 7, 2020

John Dewey Salyers, Age 72, entered into the arms of Jesus, surrounded by his beloved wife and daughters on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. John was born in Independence, KY on November 24, 1947. He grew up in Grant County and joined the US Army Corps of Engineers at the age of 18. In 1969, after serving a year long tour in Vietnam he met his beautiful wife-to-be Connie Otten. They quickly fell in love, married and eventually settled into a life in Erlanger, KY. (In his opinion, the greatest city in the world.

In addition to serving in the military, John lived a life of service to our nation. He served as an Erlanger policeman from 1970-1986. While there, he volunteered heavily with the Lloyd Memorial High School football program and Erlanger Lions Little League Baseball. In 1986, after working as a volunteer on Jim Bunning’s congressional campaign he started a new chapter in life by taking a position as a field representative for the newly elected Congressman. He then stood by Mr. Bunning for the next 24 years, eventually becoming a military liaison for the Senator.

After retiring in 2010 he put his whole heart into Rotary International. While serving with Rotary he was President of the Florence, KY club, became Governor of District 6740 and found his true passion as a part of the United States Polio Eradication Task Force.

Despite all of those accomplishments John was most proud of his children and grandchildren, his status as a fan of the Northern Kentucky University Norse and the flowers in his yard that he kept so well.

John was a long time member and elder at Lakeside Christian Church in Lakeside Park, Ky. His most defining characteristic and strongest attribute was his faith in his risen Savior Jesus Christ. His faith could not be shaken, despite all of the hardships he went through, and it is what gives his family the comfort they need to make it through this difficult time.

John is survived by his wife of 51 years, Connie Salyers, his daughters Beth Barker (Don) and Meredith Lewis, his grandchildren Jaelyn, Reagan, Camden, Bekah, Noah and Lainey and his brother and sisters, Janet Lasters, Judy Webster, June Beach and Thomas Chipman.

He is preceded in death by his mother Mildred Jean Dennis, his Aunt and Uncle Marzawilla and Hobart Marsh and his son-in-law Jeremy Lewis.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 11am at Kentucky Veteran’s Cemetery North in Williamstown, KY. Due to social distancing limitations, services are limited to family and close friends of Connie and John. More distant relatives and friends are asked to consider viewing the services at https://youtu.be/eP7GtVX81as . In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Polio Plus Fund (via www.Florencerotary.org). Online condolences can be made at www.Linnemannfuneralhomes.com