Obituaries, August 1, 2025

Written on 08/01/2025


Lindley “Flash” Heath Bales, Darwin Lee Graham, Wendy K. Taylor (Holler)

Lindley “Flash” Heath Bales

Lindley “Flash” Heath Bales, 90, of Greenfield, passed away on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on September 24, 1934, in Marion, the son of Grant and Eva (Rupley) Bales. On September 13, 1952, he married Carolyn June Price, and she preceded him in death on June 3, 2002. On October 25, 2003, he married Mona Herr, and she survives.

Lindley retired after 33 years from Indiana Bell, working as a repair supervisor. Lindley enjoyed golf, motorcycle riding, road trips, and racing go-carts and modified cars. He loved animals, wearing hats, and his family very dearly. Lindley was a member of the Fortville Optimist Club.

Along with his wife Mona Herr, Lindley is survived by his children Steven (Kelly) Bales, Cynthia J. (Greg) Lewis, Deborah L. (Mike) Males, and Jamie C. Bales, sister Christine Judith Knox, eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Lindley was preceded in death by his wife and mother of his children Carolyn Bales, parents Grant & Eva Bales, and brothers Sylvan Bales and Clinton Bales.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Stout & Son Funeral Home - Sharpsville, 204 N. Church Street, Sharpsville, IN. Burial will follow in Sharpsville Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service on Saturday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made in Lindley’s name to the American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Association. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.



Darwin Lee Graham

Darwin Lee Graham, 75, Greentown, passed away at 2:45 a.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Community Hospital North in Indianapolis. He was born June 28, 1950, in Peru, IN, the son of the late Laverne and Minardean (Foland) Graham. On November 14, 2008, he married Patty Shaw in Tennessee, and she survives.

Darwin was a 1968 graduate of Eastern High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Tri-State University. Darwin began his career as an engineer at Chrysler before spending nearly 50 years with the same company through its transitions from Delco to Delphi and eventually BorgWarner. His dedication, technical knowledge, and steady presence earned him deep respect across the industry. In addition to his engineering work, Darwin was also a committed farmer, working alongside his brother – a reflection of his strong roots, work ethic, and love for the land. He approached both careers with quiet determination and integrity, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Darwin was a member of the Indiana Snow Mobile Club, Greentown Lions Club, and the Greentown Masonic Lodge. He had also been the chairman or co-chairman in some capacity for the last 37 years for the Howard County 4-H Fair Pageant. Darwin loved traveling, especially to Florida, Arizona, and Hawaii with his family.

More than anything, he loved his big family. Being surrounded by his kids, grandkids, and loved ones was what made him happiest. He leaves behind a legacy full of love and laughter. In addition to his wife Patty, Darwin is survived by his children Rachelle “Shelley” (Ken) Swan, Shannon (Mitch) Townsend, Brandon Graham, Amy Graham, Brandon (Natalie) Robbins, and Autumn (Kevin) Powell, grandchildren Blake (Taylor) Swan, Ethan Swan, Keenan (Kelley) Swan, Madaleine (Michael) Niemi, Camryn (Ryan) Manfred, Ava Townsend, Uriah Graham, Opal Graham, Andrew Graham, Mason (Lexi) Graham, Caleb Graham, Chloe Graham, Allison Robbins, Owen Robbins, Cassidy Keene, Scarlet Chapel, and Knox Powell, great-grandchildren Hope Leaird, Dean Swan, Wren Swan, Braylen Graham, Rowan Graham, and Baby Graham on the way, and brother Edwin (Jackie) Graham.

Darwin was preceded in death by his parents and son Bradley Graham.

A funeral service celebrating Darwin’s life will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, August 4, 2025, at Hasler & Stout Funeral Home, 112 E. Main St., Greentown, with Pastor Mike Horner officiating. Burial will take place in Greenlawn Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, August 3, 2025, at the funeral home. Masonic rites will take place at 5 p.m. provided by the Greentown Masonic Lodge #341. Memorial contributions may be made to the Greentown Lions Club or the Greentown Masonic Lodge #341. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.hasler-stout.com.



Wendy K. Taylor (Holler)

Wendy K. Taylor (Holler) of Kokomo, aged 64, a cherished mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on July 25, 2025. Born on April 25, 1961, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Betty L. Kendall (Robison) and late Mike Holler, Wendy was a joy to all who knew her.

Wendy's life was a testament to her loving nature and her ability to bring laughter and happiness to those around her. Her compassionate spirit led her to a fulfilling career in home health, where she provided care and comfort to many.

Wendy's love for her family was unparalleled. She is survived by her three children Joshua Fristoe, Michael Wendt, and Shasta Cole, her precious grandchildren John-Paul Lummus and three granddaughters who brought immense joy to her life, and her best dog Yoda, who was her loyal and constant companion.

Wendy's legacy continues through her siblings Lisa Sommers, Tricia Blankenship, Paula Muller (Robin), Paul Holler, and her nieces and nephews Jennifer Winger (Josh), Hyllary Thomas (Will), Leslie Sigler (Jake), Sam Dunn (Meg), Nick Muller (Tori), Evan McCorkle, and Collin McCorkle. Her life's influence will also live on in the numerous great-nieces and great-nephews who will miss her dearly.

An enthusiast of life's simple pleasures, Wendy found happiness in playing pool, listening to music, and spending quality time with her family and her beloved dog. Her sense of humor was infectious, and she had the unique ability to find the silver lining in every cloud. Wendy's thoughtful and funny personality was a source of comfort and laughter, and she will be remembered for the love she so freely gave.

Wendy K. Taylor's life was a beautiful melody composed of moments of kindness, laughter, and love. As we say farewell to a woman who was the embodiment of warmth and generosity, we take solace in the memories we shared and the impact she made on each of our lives. Wendy's spirit will continue to inspire us every day, and her memory will be cherished forever in the hearts of those who loved her.

A private service will be held by family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to her mother Betty L. Kendall and sent to the address 1012 S. Leeds St., Kokomo, IN 46902.

City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com