Obituaries, April 11, 2024 (2024)

Debra Ann Hubbard

Debra Ann Hubbard, 69, of Cicero, Indiana passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024. She was born April 1, 1955, in Kokomo, Indiana, to the late Jack and Ruby Bordner.

Deb didn't know a stranger. She was a funny and sassy social butterfly. She loved dancing and was actually pretty good at it. She was a true foodie, always going out to dinner especially to Hibachi with her family. She enjoyed thrifting and kept an eye out for any yard sales when she was driving around. She and her husband, Charlie, were on a bowling league together. They competed in many tournaments over the years. Deb was also a huge fan of Purdue.

Deb is survived by her daughters Stacy Patrick (Scott) and Jessica Allee (Ray); her grandchildren Tyler Compton, Logan Compton, Alex Allee (Bailey), Jonah Allee, Cameron Allee; sister-in-law Pat Bordner and nephew Jeff Bordner.

In addition to her parents Deb was preceded in death by her husband Charlie Hubbard; and her siblings Joseph Bordner, Terry Denton, and Kenneth Bordner. As well as her fur baby, Rocco.

A visitation for Deb will be held Friday, April 12, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary & Crematory Center, 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, Indiana 46902, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM. Deb will be laid to rest in Kokomo Memorial Park, 1300 E North St, Kokomo, Indiana 46901.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Debra's memory may be made to American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, Virginia 22116.

Steven Charles Hicks

Steven Charles Hicks, 72, Kokomo, passed away at 6:27 p.m. Sunday April 7, 2024, at his home. He was born July 18, 1951, in Logansport, IN, to Laurence and Thelma (O’Banion) Hicks. On June 6, 1970, he married Dixie Bline, and she survives.

Steven proudly served his country in the Unites States Army Reserve. He was the owner and operator of Hicks & Son Plumbing and Heating. Known by his nickname, the governor, he will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality. Steven enjoyed fishing, camping, travel, and all things related to real estate. Most of all he cherished his family, especially his wife, children, and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Dixie Hicks; daughter, Amy Hicks; son, Steve (Heather) Hicks; grandchildren, Cody Hicks, Dakota Hicks, Grace Ghaznawi, and Mason Ghaznawi; great-grandchildren, Faith, Teaven, King, Cyncere, Pheonix, Violet, Olivia, and Cali; siblings, Linda Hicks, Sue Hicks, Nancy Smith, Carroll Dean Hicks, and Marcia Wilson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and great-grandson, Cody Jr.

Funeral services celebrating Steven’s life will be at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 West Lincoln Road, with Pastor Tim Cooper officiating. Military honors will be provided by the United States Army and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team. Friends may visit with the family from 2:00 p.m. until service time Saturday at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Michael V. “Mike” Byers

Michael V. “Mike” Byers, 58, Kokomo, passed away at 10:51 pm Saturday, April 6, 2024, at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. He was born October 7, 1965, in Kokomo, the son of the late Gary “Yacky” & Connie (Coleman) Byers. On October 2, 1993, in Kokomo, he married Robin Bliss, and she survives.

Mike was a proud graduate of Haworth High School class of 1984 and had attended every history class offered by Purdue University. He had worked for the Kokomo Tribune from 1999-2012 then Frito Lay from 2012 to present. Mike was a social butterfly. He loved being around people and never met a stranger. Family and friends always came first and would come running when called upon. Mind you, if the Bears were on TV, he might be delayed. His sister, Michelle Ebert, was his world, and he was the ever-protective big brother. Mike was a proud uncle to 4 nieces and nephews, Nate, Darius, Cora, and Alie. He constantly reminded them how much he cared by “picking” and “poking” at them any time they were in arm’s reach.

Mike was married to Robin Byers for 30 years. She was his angel as he often called her. However, he often miswrote it as “angle,” and it became a running joke for many years. He very rarely called her by her given name and called her “sweetie”. Mike told people if he hadn’t met Robin, he probably wouldn’t have made it past age 30. He lived life for her.

Mike loved fishing, football, especially the Bears, Chicago Cubs, playing games, and traveling with Robin. But he truly enjoyed the Gen Con Gaming Convention. When it came to Indy in 2003, author, Tracy Hickman reached out to him and asked if the Kokomo Irregulars (that’s another story) could help him at the con. Of course we jumped. This led to meeting some wonderful people from all around the world. In 2013, it grew to working in a booth for Howard Tayler and Tracy Hickman. That pair turned into 3 when Jim Zub was added. He looked forward every year and would count down the days starting the moment it ended till the next year.

Mike loved grilling and smoking various meats and things and was always in constant search of new things, but for him it wasn’t just about the smoking of food, it was the sharing of the food. He loved smoking for family and friends and having that interaction of fun, loving and laughing companionship. Mike loved his family and friends deeply and loved making memories. He was loved by many for his quick smile, playful jokes and a contagious laugh. The hole he has left will be filled with funny stories and loving memories,

Mike was quick to lend a helping hand to whoever and whenever. He continued that legacy and gifted life to total strangers as he left this world and went to his heavenly home, no doubt asking God if he needs help with anything.

Along with his wife Robin, Mike is also survived by his loving sister, Michelle Ebert; his nieces and nephews, Nate Ebert, Darius Ebert, Cora Ebert and Alie Ebert.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 5-7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Sheriff Jerry Asher offering words of comfort at 7:30 p.m. Anyone who would like to join the family and celebrate Mike after the service is welcome at the Kokomo F.O.P., 102 W. Markland Ave. Memorial contributions may be made in Mike’s memory to the Indiana Donor Network or the American Cancer Society.

Carol Louise Hinkle

Carol Louise Hinkle, 84, of Bringhurst, passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024, at 5:47 a.m. at Milner Community Healthcare in Rossville. She was born January 9, 1940, in Carroll County, IN, the daughter of the late Robert L. and Lora A. (Albaugh) Wertz. On July 10, 1960, she married Danny K. Hinkle at the Burlington United Methodist Church, who preceded her in death on December 10, 1984.

Carol was a homemaker her entire life working various jobs over the years. She was a member of the Burlington United Methodist Church, Burlington Girls Euchre Club, and Burlington Bunko Club. She enjoyed gardening in her earlier years.

Carol is survived by her children, Kim (Randy) Sparks, David (Dana) Hinkle, and Jeff Hinkle; grandchild, Jacelynn Hinkle; sisters, Mary Trapp Miller, and Betty McCarty; along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband Danny, Carol was preceded in death by her parents; 2 brothers, Bill (Bonnie) Wertz, and Bob (Mary) Wertz Jr.; and brother-in-law, Max McCarty.

A funeral service will take place at 1 p.m. Monday, April 15, 2024, at Stout & Son Funeral Home-Neptune Chapel, 44 Michigan Rd., Burlington, with Rev. David Osborne officiating. Casual attire is welcome for services. Burial will follow in Maple Lawn Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family on Monday, April 15, 2024, from 11 a.m. until the start of the service at the funeral home. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in June of 2024. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.

Jean Carol (Moss) Parker

Jean Carol (Moss) Parker, 90, of Michigantown, passed away 1:30 p.m., Sunday, April 7, 2024, at IU Health Arnett Hospital in Lafayette, IN. She was born in Indianapolis, IN, on February 25, 1934, the daughter of the late Charles Arthur Moss and Betty Mildred (King) Moss. On May 31, 1954, she married Jimmie Max Parker, and he preceded her in death on January 3, 2022.

Jean was a 1952 graduate of Burlington High School. After high school, she worked at the Kokomo Tribune as a telephone operator. Jean was the ultimate caretaker and worked as a farm wife and homemaker to her husband and sons. She was passionate about animals and took in numerous strays that showed up at their farm. Jean found joy in working at Walmart for more than 30 years. She formerly attended the Burlington Brethren Church. She was an avid reader who would often take trips to the Michigan Road Community Library in Michigantown.

She is survived by her sons, Michael “Douglas” Parker, James “Scott” (Sharon) Parker, Jonathon Brett Parker; grandchildren, Nadia Parker, Max (Kristen) Parker, Cassie (Brian) VerVaet, Allayna Parker; great-grandchildren, Raelyn Parker, Kinsley Parker.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Brian Curtis Parker; and sister, Evelyn (Glenn) Newby.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Stout & Son Funeral Home – Neptune Chapel, 44 Michigan Street, Burlington, IN 46915. Funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home with Pastor John Drexler officiating. Burial will follow in Burlington Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Jean’s memory to the Michigan Road Community Library.

John G. Serowik

John G. Serowik, 68, Westfield, passed away at 4:50 a.m., Friday, April 5, 2024, at Maple Park Village. He was born in Detroit, MI on January 28, 1956, the son of the late Alexander and Irene T. (Wroblewski) Serowik.

John graduated from Taylor High School in 1975 and attended IUK. He was a cook at Ducky’s Restaurant for 18 years, he had also worked as a semi-truck driver. John had found Jesus over the past decade and was a member of St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church in Westfield. He had a great interest in Great Lake freighters and shipping. John was a car enthusiast who loved his pets and was active in the scouts in his youth.

John is survived by his siblings, Alexander (Ronalda) Serowik Jr., Susan Serowik, and Michael Serowik; nieces & nephews, Lisa Crowder, Jeffrey (Shawna) Crowder, Staci (Darrell) Griffin, Rochelle (Greg) Grove, Corey (Joni) Serowik, and Christine (Christopher) Gartin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister & brother-in-law, Ann Marie and Thomas Crowder.

A memorial service will take place at 2 p.m., Friday, April 19, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Rev. Fr. Kyle Neterer officiating. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 12-2 p.m., on Friday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kokomo Rescue Mission, kokomorescuemission.org/donate/. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Randy Clark Smith

Randy Clark Smith, age 62, of Roann, Indiana, passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024.

A visitation for Randy will be held Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Bethel Tabernacle Church of God, 661 W. 400 S., Kokomo, Indiana 46902, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM.

Randy will be laid to rest in Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery, 2097 W. Alto Rd., Kokomo, Indiana 46901.

Lillian Frances “Frances” Robinson

Lillian Frances “Frances” Robinson, 80, of Kokomo, passed away on April 10, 2024, at Community Howard Hospital in Kokomo.

Frances was born on October 26, 1943, in Howard County, IN, to Theo and Maude (Andrews) York. She graduated from Carroll High School and went on to become a licensed cosmetologist. For over 20 years, Frances taught cosmetology classes at Wright’s Beauty College in Kokomo. She loved hair and makeup and always kept herself looking nice. She was very creative and loved to paint and write. Although she was an independent, stubborn woman, Frances loved her family very much.

Frances is survived by her children, David (Tracey) Robinson, and Amber Robinson; grandchildren, Emily Robinson, Elise (Connor) Hamilton, Ethan Robinson, and Justin (Rachel) Zook; great-grandson, Nolan Zook; and sisters, Lucille and Patricia.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Don, Bill, Roy, Jean, and Ludean.

No services are scheduled at this time. A private burial will take place at Crown Point Cemetery, at a later date. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Ricky Allen Weese

Ricky Allen Weese, 64, Kokomo, passed away at 7:30 a.m., Monday, April 8, 2024, at Community Howard Regional Health in Kokomo. He was born January 27, 1960, in Kokomo, the son of the late Frederick T. & Juanita R. (Lewellen) Weese. On November 16, 2021, in Kokomo, he married Anna McGlothlin who survived.

Ricky earned his GED from Logansport High School. He enjoyed his time and meeting new people while working for Door Dash. Ricky also enjoyed working on cars, watching sports, NASCAR and watching westerns. His greatest joy was spending time with family and friends, especially his son, Richard.

Ricky is survived by his children, Janet Weese, Ryan Weese and Richard Weese, along with several grandchildren; siblings, Frederick Weese I, Tom (Glenda) Weese, Kenny Weese, Jerry (Helen) Weese, Roy (Billie) Weese and Susanna (Brian) Clark; mother-in-law, Mary (Dan) Sigman; father-in-law, John (Laura) McGlothlin; brother-in-law, Stephen “Steve” (Reanda) McGlothlin, along with several nieces and nephews.

Ricky was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Richard Weese.

In keeping with Ricky’s wishes, no services will be held. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation.

Danny Joe Groves

Danny Joe Groves, age 90, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away at home surrounded by family on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. He was the son of Edward and Zelma (George) Groves. After graduating from Kokomo High School, he joined the Navy and was honorably discharged in August of 1960. He retired from the Kokomo Police Department after 20 years of service. He enjoyed boating, camping, his dogs, and farm animals.

He survived by his son, Daniel Groves; stepdaughter, Loretta Smith; grandchildren, Ashley Crites, Katie Brown, Lance Groves, Kay Groves and Kim Groves; great-grandchildren, Aubrey Gibson, Anmecria Gibson, Karley Groves, Madilyn Cheeseman, Jonas Groves; 4 great-great-grandchildren; nephew, Rick Dillman; niece, Bonnie Sue Schrom; and daughters-in-law, Kristi Groves and Rose Groves.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Zelma; wife, Mary Lou (Campbell) Groves; sister, Colleen Dillman; son, Donald Groves; and nephew, Joe Dillman.

The family will be having private services for Danny. Condolences and fond memories can be left for the family at www.ellersmortuaryandcremationcenter.com.