Evalene J. (Harland) Wolf, Luther Dale Pope, Jerry Lee Busch, Larry Stanton Russell, James “Jim” Gordon Frye, Timothy “Tim” Smith, Richard Daniel Pool, Rebecca Joyce (Rich) Surber
Evalene J. (Harland) Wolf
Evalene J. (Harland) Wolf of Galveston went to be with the Lord on December 6, 2025, after living six years in assisted living at Kokomo Place. She was born July 23, 1934, in Frankfort, IN, to Earl Vernon and Anna Belle (Hamilton) Harland. She had three sisters and one brother who had all preceded her in death. She married Charles R. Wolf on June 6, 1952. They were married 54 years until he passed in 2006.
Evalene and Charles had four children who are all surviving: Steve (Michon) Wolf, Carol (Dan) Nagy, Charlene (Stu) Newcomer, and Lynn (Larry) Fear. She had six grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one step-great-grandchild.
Evalene was an active member of Galveston United Methodist Church for more than 60 years, where she was a member of the choir as well as a director of the choir for 27 years, UMW, and church secretary. She played the piano and organ as well as other instruments, all self- taught.
As a teenager, her family lived in California for several years, where she played the viola in the band while attending Los Angeles High School. They returned to Frankfort for her senior year, where she graduated. She continued to travel the world extensively with her siblings. In her late 50s, Evalene retired from Delco. She pursued drafting course work to promote her career. She enjoyed spending time with her friends, reading, sewing, genealogy, and theatre. She was a loving mother, wife, grandmother, and caregiver for three of her siblings, husband, and other family members.
Evalene has chosen cremation and will be interred at Greenlawn Cemetery with her husband and siblings.
A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Bruce Coats officiating. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service Saturday at the funeral home.
Luther Dale Pope
Luther Dale “Dale” Pope, beloved brother, husband, father, and friend, was born on November 18, 1944, in Tipton, Indiana, to Roy and Virginia (Mason) Pope. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by the memories and love of those who knew him best, on May 7, 2026, at The Waters of Tipton.
Raised in Tipton, Dale attended the Tipton school system and spent most of his life in the community he called home. He was employed for many years at Cuneo Press in Kokomo, Indiana, until its closing, and later worked for Marsh Foods in Carmel, Indiana.
In the late 1960s, Dale married Erissie Frances (McClaren) Moser, who was lovingly known to everyone as Frances. Together, they shared a life built on love, kindness, and resilience. They were parents to two boys Tommy Moser and Richard Pope. Tragically, both boys passed away at very young ages. Dale later endured the loss of Frances in 2010.
Dale was known as an honest and honorable man who was always willing to lend a helping hand to those less fortunate. Though he and Frances lived modestly, they gave generously from the heart. Dale had a kind spirit and was well-liked by everyone fortunate enough to know him.
In his later years, Dale enjoyed spending time playing video action games on his laptop and reading space-related fiction books, interests that brought him both entertainment and comfort.
Those left to carry on his legacy of love are his sisters Barbara A. Pearson of Huntsville, Texas, and Saundra S. Mullins of Coeburn, Virginia; brother Donald W. Pope of Fort Collins, Colorado; along with several extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
He was welcomed into Heaven by his wife Frances Pope; son Richard Pope; stepson Tommy Moser; brothers Jerry L. Pope and Roy K. Pope; and his parents Roy & Virginia Pope.
Dale will be remembered for his gentle heart, quiet generosity, and the goodness he showed to others throughout his life.
Burial will take place at Fairview Cemetery on Tuesday, May 12, at 11:00 AM with Pastor Steve Brown sharing a prayer and final blessing for Dale.
Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve Dale’s family in their time of need.
Jerry Lee Busch
Jerry Lee Busch, 79, passed peacefully on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent Kokomo. He was born on September 27, 1946, the son of William J. and Irene (Arbuckle) Busch. On July 4, 1971, he married Darlene (Gaddis) Busch in Kokomo, IN, and she survives.
Jerry attended Kokomo High School. Jerry served in the U.S. Army from March 30, 1966, until he medically retired on November 4, 1968. He worked at Mal’s Sporting Goods as a fishing rod and reel repairman. He was a life member of the DAV since 1982. Jerry loved fishing and mushroom hunting. He enjoyed spending time with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. Jerry adored his dog Ellie.
Jerry is survived by his wife Darlene Busch; daughter Monica K. (Darren, Sr.) Metz; grandchildren Darren (Ellie Jones) Metz, Jr., and Crystal (Ryan Roark) Metz; great-grandchildren Wyatt Metz, Grayson Roark, and a great-granddaughter on the way; brothers Danny Busch and Jimmie (Sandra) Busch; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Crystal D. (Busch) Lewis; and siblings Shirley Hoffman, Janet Taylor, Jeanette Eades, Patty Myers, and Johnny Busch.
A funeral service celebrating Jerry’s life will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo. Burial will follow Kokomo Memorial Park Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the U.S. Army and the Kokomo V.F.W. Military Honors Team. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. Wednesday until the time of the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Messages of condolence may be made online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Larry Stanton Russell
Larry Stanton Russell, 92, passed away on May 4, 2026, in his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 19, 1933, and raised in Kokomo, IN, where he attended Kokomo High School, graduating in 1951.
He was a member of the Army National Guard. He was very involved in The United Way in Kokomo. Larry worked at Chrysler for more than 40 years, where he was known for his loyalty, financial acumen, and attention to detail. He retired as the Manager of Outside Sales, a job that led him to Japan and Europe on behalf of Chrysler.
On May 7, 1955, Larry married Roberta “Bertie” (Richards) Russell at Grace Methodist Church in Kokomo, IN. Together, they built a life in Kokomo, IN, and shared almost 71 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife Roberta (Richards) Russell; their children Susan (Jeff) Markley, Julia (Jeff) Wainscott, Janet Fortner, and John (Mandie Garner) Russell; his 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and his sister Melanie (Ronald) Shrader.
He was preceded in death by his parents Marriott “Soapy” McClure and Jayne (Winkler) McClure; his uncle Bob Winkler; daughter Shari Lee Russell; and son Patrick Michael Russell.
Larry looked out for others with a big heart. He enjoyed coaching youth sports, participating in his church, and getting to share in the successes of others. He was always available to listen and share solid advice when needed. Larry excelled as a baseball player, bowler and golfer. Larry loved the Brooklyn Dodgers, Perry Como, and Louie’s Coney Island, but he loved his family even more. He was active in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Larry and Bertie shared countless fun adventures throughout the U.S. during their lives together. He was also quick to remind you of his sense of humor and kind heart when he would ask if you liked your meal.
A celebration of life will be held at the family home on May 31 from 2:30 p.m. until dusk for his family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis and/or the Ronald McDonald House of Indianapolis.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com
James “Jim” Gordon Frye
James “Jim” Gordon Frye, 92, of Kokomo, passed away Friday May 8, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Kokomo. He was born in Kokomo, IN, on March 23, 1934, the son of the late James Gordon Frye Sr. and Mildred (Forysthe) Frye. On November 4, 1961, he married Mary Lou Isenogle, and she preceded him in death on March 25, 2013.
Jim was a 1953 graduate of Kokomo High School. He retired from General Motors. Jim was most passionate about his family and playing golf. He was the best G-Pa to his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After he retired, Jim rated golf courses around the state of Indiana for the PGA. His other hobbies included gardening, watching old Country-Western TV shows, and keeping a well-manicured lawn.
He is survived by his daughters Debi Sipes and Luan (Roger) Cantu; five grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; sister Vicki Puett; son-in-law Rick Sipes; stepsons Rick Farmer and Nick Farmer; and grandson James Farmer.
Cremation has been entrusted to Stout & Son Funeral Home – Russiaville Chapel. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.
Timothy “Tim” Smith
Timothy “Tim” Smith lived life with passion, personality, and a rhythm entirely his own. He left an impression wherever he went; whether through music, conversation, his work, or his larger-than-life presence.
Music was at the heart of Tim’s life from a young age, a passion first inspired by his father that stayed with him throughout his life. More than a hobby, music was his truest form of self-expression. When words fell short, he communicated what he felt most deeply through the keys of a piano and the energy of a performance. He felt most alive behind a keyboard and never missed an opportunity to take the stage. He loved talking about music with anyone willing to listen and proudly embraced his love for performing, especially jamming out on the keyboards.
Later in life, Tim turned his love of gardening into a career, creating beautiful landscapes that remain part of his legacy. He approached life with determination, curiosity, and humor, loved riding motorcycles, and had a lifelong love for dogs.
Tim was preceded in death by his beloved wife Diana Smith, whose loss deeply impacted him, as well as his parents Rodderick and Beverly Smith.
He is survived by his daughter Carrissa Locher; stepchildren Steven Turnpaugh and Mandi McMinn; grandchildren Christopher, Bryce, Ayden, Garrett, Jaiden, and Abrielle; a great-grandson; sister Becky Barrickman; brothers Robert Smith and David Smith; extended family members; dear friends, and many others who will miss him deeply.
Tim will be remembered for his passion, individuality, humor, and the way he made life feel a little louder, brighter, and far more interesting. His legacy lives on through the music he shared, the landscapes he created, and the memories of all who knew and loved him
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com
Richard Daniel Pool
Richard Daniel Pool, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026, in Peru, Indiana.
He was born on February 1, 1944, in Hammond, Indiana, to Carl Calvin Pool and Claudia Irene (Russell) Pool.
Richard’s greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his loving wife Linda Pool.
He was a proud father to his children Tammy Davis, Richard Pool II, and William (Stacey) Pool, and a cherished stepfather to Ronald (Jolene) Hood Jr. and Robert Hood. He helped raise Brittany (Christopher) Rymer and Jacob Hood with the same love and care he gave his own.
He leaves behind 13 grandchildren, one great-granddaughter (whom he adored), 17 step-grandchildren, and 16 step-great-grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will miss him dearly. He was especially thrilled to meet and hold his great-granddaughter Leilani Danielle.
Richard is also survived by his sisters Joyce (Gary) Judson and Sharon (Wayland Smith) Arcella, and his surviving sisters-in-law Margaret (Walter) Specht, Susan (John I) Wachter, Jean (Paul) Medley, and Debbie Pool.
Richard found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved bowling, fishing, camping, watching old Westerns and cowboy movies, and cheering at roller derby events. Above all, he treasured spending time with his family, watching his grandchildren grow and sharing quiet moments with those he loved.
He retired after 30 faithful years with the School Town of Highland, Indiana, and enjoyed the lasting friendships he formed there, particularly with Michael White Sr. and Scotty Gonzales.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Claudia Pool; his in-laws Otho and Charlene (Brown) Householder; his brothers Carl, Donald, David, and Jerry; his sisters Barbara Copeland, Georgia Nightingale, Sandra Pondo, and Claudette Steffan; along with brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Charles Householder, Arvel Copeland, George Nightingale, Emil Pondo, (Sharon) Diane Rodgers, Reba Spoor, and Carol Pool. He was also preceded by his stepdaughter Crystal Hood and son-in-law Donald Davis, as well as his nephew Arvel Copeland.
Though his time with us has ended, the love Richard gave so freely will continue to live on in every story told, every family gathering, and every memory cherished by those who were lucky enough to know him. He will be deeply missed.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com
Rebecca Joyce (Rich) Surber
Rebecca Joyce (Rich) Surber, 75, of Rose Hill, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 25, 2026 after recent health issues. Rebecca was a resident of Tipton for many years and will be laid to rest here. She was born on May 23, 1950, to her parents Paul Rich and Ruth (Judd) Rich. Rebecca was married to her husband Chester Surber for many years before he passed away in 2002.
Rebecca attended Frankfort High School. She married young and started a family soon after. She and her husband moved to Tipton when their children were young to be closer to family.
Rebecca enjoyed being a homemaker, and her three sons kept her very busy! She enjoyed being a wife and mother and was very thankful for her family. Rebecca babysat through the years and also worked seasonally for Pioneer.
It was always Rebecca and Chester’s plan to retire in Virginia. After Chester finalized his 30 years for Chrysler, the two set off for their adventure. They were blessed to build a new home and enjoy several years together, taking in the beauty of Virginia.
Anyone who knew Rebecca would tell you she was a very kind-hearted and giving person. She led by example, teaching her children and grandchildren the importance of being a good neighbor and caring for those around them. She worked hard to keep her family connected, believing that those bonds mattered most. She loved spending time thrift shopping and crafting with her senior group, but nothing brought her more happiness than being a grandmother.
Rebecca will be deeply missed by her children Mark Surber (Valarie) and David Surber (Lisa Engle); grandchildren Micah Surber, Hannah Surber, Jonathan Surber, Andrew Surber (Megan), and Rachel Engle; brother Dan Rich; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Rebecca was preceded in death by her parents Paul & Ruth Rich; husband Chester Surber; son Gregory Surber; and siblings Paul Rich Jr., Don Rich, Jim Rich, Jerry Rich, Joe Rich, Polly Rich, Martha Brewer, and Debbie Simmons.
A private graveside service to celebrate Rebecca’s life was held at Fairview Cemetery in Tipton.
Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Surber family in their time of need.