William Wilson “Bill” Jones, Michael “Mike” Duane Ringeisen, James Douglas Richards (J.D., Jim), Theresa Ann Welland-Bristol, Robert “Bob” Conaway, James Robert Heltzel
William Wilson “Bill” Jones
William Wilson “Bill” Jones, 96, of Kokomo, passed away on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at his home. He was born March 30, 1929, in Indianapolis, to Robert Paul and Mary Elizabeth (Wilson) Jones. On May 27, 1960, he married Nancy J. Dezelan, and she survives.
Bill graduated from Indianapolis Arsenal Technical High School and went on to serve in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict from 1951 to 1953. After his military service, Bill worked as a tool designer for General Motors for 41 years before retiring and also worked as a school bus driver. He enjoyed woodworking and was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church.
In addition to his wife Nancy Jones, survivors include his children Gary (Carrie) Jones, Kevin (Michelle) Jones, Mark Jones, Diane (Tom) Vielee, Lori (Todd) Line, and David (Renata) Jones, grandchildren Ellen (David) Gerth, Joseph (Alexa) Line, William Line, Audrey Jones, Blake Jones, Claire Jones, Sam Vielee, Charles Vielee, Lucy Vielee, and Maria Luiza Coelho, and great-grandchildren Gabriel Gerth and Liam Line.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Merritt Jones, and a sister Margaret.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 24, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1229 N. Washington St., Kokomo, with Rev. Fr. Cole Daily and Rev. Fr. Chris Shocklee concelebrating and Deacon Marty Stout and Deacon Chuck Springer assisting. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Indianapolis, with military honors provided by the United States Navy and the Indy Metropolitan Military Honor Guard. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Rd., Kokomo, where the Rosary will be offered by the Women of Grace at 3:30 p.m., and from 10 to 11 a.m. on Thursday at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to the Sts. Joan of Arc & Patrick School or to the St. Patrick Catholic Church. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Michael “Mike” Duane Ringeisen
Michael “Mike” Duane Ringeisen, 86, of Kokomo, met his Lord and Savior when he entered his heavenly home on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 4:00 AM from Ascension St. Vincent Hospital – Kokomo after enduring a brief illness. The first and only son of Everett and Rachael “Margaret” (Henry) Ringeisen, Mike was born on December 31, 1938, in Kokomo. On August 21, 1960, at Beamer United Methodist Church in Kokomo, Mike married Nancy Larrison, who survives.
After graduating Kokomo High School in 1956, Mike attended Taylor University and Indiana University-Kokomo. From 1961-65 (active duty) and 1965-67 (reserve duty), Mike proudly and humbly served in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his time with the USAF, Mike worked as a radio intercept operator in the USAF’s Security Service, a selective and specialized communications and intelligence branch of the USAF. He spent most of his active service time deployed to Iraklion Air Station in Crete, Greece. After his active military service, Mike worked as a skilled-trades machine repairman at Chrysler for more than 30 years. In addition, he turned his love of photography into a successful business, and for more than 10 years, he operated Mike’s Photography, specializing in wedding photography.
Throughout his adult life, Mike was a HAM radio operator and enjoyed talking to others around the world. He liked to log his encounters and pinpoint them on a world map on the wall. A family man, Mike loved spending time with his family at various school and life events, activities, and gatherings. In addition, Mike liked to watch college football and basketball as well as Cubs baseball and Colts football. A dedicated follower of Christ, Mike read and studied his Bible daily, including while on his breaks at work. He enjoyed sharing his Christian faith with others, including his children, through his lifestyle, Scriptures, music, and testimony. Mike, along with Nancy, traveled to the Holy Land with an airbase tour group while he was stationed in Crete, and he counted this vacation as a blessing and a privilege. During this trip, he won a photography contest within his group for “Best Photo” which further spurred his photography hobby. Mike was an active member of Fair Havens Christian and Missionary Alliance Church as well as Beamer United Methodist Church. In later years, he actively attended One Church, formerly known as First Church of the Nazarene.
Along with Nancy, his wife of nearly 65 years, Mike is survived by: a son Duane Ringeisen of Lafayette, and a daughter Michelle Ringeisen of Kokomo; sister Karen (Mike) McCroskey of Lafayette; brothers-in-law Mike (Debbie) Larrison and Terry Huffer of Kokomo; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and four special grand-dogs.
Preceding Mike in death were his parents Everett and Margaret Ringeisen, sisters Marcia Orem and Jean Huffer, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Bonnie and Jon Joseph, brothers-in-law Ray Douglas and Charles Orem, and several beloved family pets, including his cat KC and three special grand-dogs.
A funeral service celebrating Mike’s life will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, in Kokomo. Pastor Dianne Wagner will officiate. Friends may visit the family at the funeral home from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Friday, April 25, 2025, and 2:00 PM until the service on Saturday, April 26. Military Honors will be provided by the United States Air Force and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team. Entombment is scheduled for Monday, April 28, 2025, at Sunset Memory Garden’s Mausoleum Chapel of Peace. Stout & Son Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Donations in Mike’s memory may be made to One Church’s “Lunch with Liz” or the Christian and Missionary Alliance’s Great Commission fund at www.cmalliance.org/give. Messages of condolence may be left at www.stoutandson.com.
James Douglas Richards (J.D., Jim)
James Douglas Richards (J.D., Jim), 79, of Kokomo, IN, formerly of Hebron, IN, passed away peacefully in his home on April 16, 2025. Born March 30, 1946, in Fordsville, KY, J.D. was a lifelong tinkerer and fixer. Valedictorian of Fordsville High School’s Class of 1964, he continued his education for a year at Western Kentucky University before pursuing an apprenticeship and becoming a shop electrician at Inland Steel from 1966 to 1997. After retiring from the mill, he worked as a small-engine repairman at various local hardware stores. A lifelong learner, J.D. earned numerous certificates and licenses to help advance his trade, which was, officially, a jack of many trades. Deeply connected to his faith, J.D. was an active member of Eastlake Baptist Church of Crown Point before attending the Christian Church of Hebron. His favorite pastimes included tinkering, helping his family and neighbors — especially if he could fix something for them — spending time with friends and family, riding his motorcycle, and making plans for his future big lottery win.
Surviving is his wife of 58 years Patricia (Polly) Richards nee Hollander, son James (Greg) Richards of Kankakee, IL, son Robert Richards and wife Holly of Frankfort, IN, daughter Tricia Bird and husband Jonathan of LaGrange, IN, grandchildren Sean (Kelsey) and Ian (fiancee Jade) Richards, Gavin Richards, and William and Gabriel Bird, six great-grandchildren, brother Joe (Connie) Richards, and many loved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his parents Fountain and Flora Richards, brothers Fountain Jr. (Buster), Bruce, and Charles Richards, and grandchildren Jonathan Jr., Alexander, and Katherine Bird.
A viewing will be held April 25 from 4-6 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Garden Funeral Home and Cemetery, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, IN 46902. In place of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to St. Jude's or Shriners' cancer research.
Theresa Ann Welland-Bristol
Theresa Ann Welland-Bristol, 56, of Windfall, passed away at home at 2:17 p.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on April 24, 1968, to her parents Fred & Carol (Rutherford) Welland.
Theresa worked many jobs in her life; the most recent was as a Dietary Aide at Century Villa Health Care & Rehabilitation in Greentown. When not working, she enjoyed listening to all types of music, especially songs from the ‘70s and ‘80s. She played many video games on her phone. Theresa was one of those people who had to have her coffee! Three scoops of sugar and one of creamer made it just right.
Survivors include her three children Tyler Allen Bristol of Windfall, Taylor William Bristol of Shelbyville, and Tabitha Renae Horn and her husband Dylon of Elwood, and one brother Bill Welland and spouse Dawn Laughter of Elkhart. Theresa has one grandchild Braxton Hunter Bristol. She is also survived by the father of her children Richard Bristol.
It was Theresa’s wish to be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, April 27, at 323 W. South Street in Tipton, starting at 3:00. Theresa's friends are invited to attend and spend some time sharing their memories of her with her family.
Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to assist Theresa’s family with her arrangements. Online condolences may be left on her obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.
Memorial donations in honor of Theresa may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 681405, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46268.
Robert “Bob” Conaway
It is with heavy sadness that we announce the passing of Robert “Bob” Conaway, 74, who departed this life on April 20, 2025, at 8:28 AM, surrounded by his family. A beloved member of the Tipton community, Bob was known for his unwavering dedication, generosity, and warm-hearted nature. Up until the day before his transition, he was feeling good and in great spirits.
On August 6, 1972, Bob married his beloved wife LuAnn (Taylor). Their partnership stood as a testament to love and strength. LuAnn was Bob's loyal companion through every chapter of their lives together. Together, they raised two sons Brandon Conaway (Mandy) and Aaron Conaway (Christy).
Bob was proud of his grandchildren Maverick, Oliver, Raleigh, Stone, Taylor, and Memphis Conaway. He also cherished his step-grandchildren Daxton, Deakin, Mallie, and Dysson Gibson. One of Bob's favorite pastimes was watching his grandchildren play on the beach and swim in his pool. He took great pride in his family and treasured every moment spent with them.
As the son of Allen and Barbara (Whisler) Conaway (both deceased) of Tipton, Bob was part of a large family, growing up with three brothers Bill Conaway (deceased), Stanley Conaway (Tish), and Rick Conaway (Debbie).
Bob graduated from Tipton High School in 1969. He went on to own and operate Bob Standard, a gas and service station that became a cornerstone of the community for 35 years. Bob was more than just a business owner; he was a mentor and father figure to many, employing countless young people from the area and guiding them as they navigated their early careers.
After selling his beloved station, Bob enjoyed a three-day retirement before returning to the workforce, supporting his son Aaron at Total Seed Production. For 12 years, he brought his passion for hard work into every task, earning the respect and admiration of all his colleagues.
Bob's journey took a challenging turn in November 2024 when he was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. After fighting valiantly for five months, he faced his battle with courage and resilience. Those who knew him understood that if anyone could tackle this challenge, it was Bob. His stubbornness, combined with his fierce love for his family and community, shone through even in difficult times.
He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, mentorship, and hard work. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the entire Tipton community. Bob was a vital part of this community, demonstrating both compassion and firmness while always acting in the best interests of those around him.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and staff at IU Health Tipton Hospital. Their exceptional care and support for Bob during his time there were truly remarkable and deeply appreciated.
Following Bob’s wishes, there will not be a funeral. Instead, the family plans to hold a celebration of life when the weather turns nice. They will announce the time and place for this special gathering to honor the life and legacy of Bob Conaway.
Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to assist the Conaway family in their time of need. Condolence messages for Bob’s family may be left on his obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Tipton County Foundation scholarship fund established in honor of Bob Conaway. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Tipton High School who will be attending a trade school and pursuing a degree or certification in agriculture or mechanics, fields that were significant to Bob, in which he excelled.
Bob was deeply committed to giving back to the community he cherished, and this initiative seeks to help the next generation achieve their aspirations. Contributions should be sent to the Tipton County Foundation, 1020 W. Jefferson Street, Tipton, Indiana, 46072, with the memo indicating "Bob Conaway Memorial."
Bob Conaway will forever be remembered for his work ethic, dedication to family, and the profound impact he made in the lives of so many.
James Robert Heltzel
James Robert Heltzel, age 69, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025. He was born November 21, 1955, in Kokomo to Pete and Midge Heltzel. He worked as an auto body repairman. He enjoyed boating, car shows, scenic drives, snowmobiling, motorcycles, racing, fishing, and golfing. He loved his family, and his loss will forever be felt by everyone who had the privilege to know him.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife Mary Heltzel of Kokomo, daughter Hanna Heltzel of Kokomo, stepson Mike Hiers, and sisters Becky Huffman of Kokomo, Georgeanne Nestor of Georgia, and Judy Edwards of Indianapolis.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a son Josh Meeks of Arkansas.