Janice Marie Kuck, Joseph Lon Steenbergh, Shirley J. (Surber) Hoel, Bedford Hill Pruitt, Jr., Anthony Donald LaCluyse, Linda Jean (Politte) Moon, Eric Joseph Cross, John I. Dixon
Janice Marie Kuck
Janice Marie Kuck passed away on Monday, October 26, 2026, at the Mennonite Memorial Home in Bluffton. She was born in Kenton, Ohio, to the late George and Marjorie (Ford) Ziegler. She married Thomas Kuck on July 7, 1962, and he preceded her in death on August 13, 2021.
Janice is survived by her children Heidi (Lloyd) Myers of Fishers, Indiana, Eric (Kyunga) Kuck of Korea, Warren (Donna) Kuck of Eaton, Ohio, Joel Kuck of Kokomo, Indiana, and Mark (Hannah) Kuck of Kenton. She is also survived by her brother George (Connie) Ziegler; sister-in-law Dorothy Ziegler; 11 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her siblings Doug Ziegler, Mike Ziegler, Burke Ziegler, Joanne Ziegler, and Judy Woodard.
Janice graduated from Kenton High School in 1959 and earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Ohio Northern University in 1962. She taught in the Dayton School System and served as a substitute teacher for Kenton City Schools for 21 years.
In her free time, Janice enjoyed attending yard sales, supporting worldwide missions for children, spending time outdoors, and traveling in a motorhome with her husband. Together, they achieved their goal of visiting all 45 national parks in the continental U.S., as well as parks in Alaska and Hawaii. She was a faithful member of the Walnut Grove Global Methodist Church.
A graveside service will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at the Grove Cemetery Committal Building in Kenton. The Price-McElroy Funeral Home in Kenton is assisting the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Janice’s honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Heifer Project.
Online condolences may be expressed at pricefh.net.
Joseph Lon Steenbergh
Joseph Lon Steenbergh was born sleeping on October 27, 2026, at St. Vincent Hospital in Kokomo. He is the son of Jackson & Olivia (Lindsay) Steenbergh. Though his time with us was brief, he left an everlasting imprint on our hearts and our family.
Along with his loving parents, Joseph is also survived by his sister Emilia Steenbergh; grandparents Bryce & Jamie Lindsay and Tim & Tracey Steenbergh; great-grandparents Larry & Gail Lindsay, Neil & Margaret Owsley, Jack & Elaine Steenbergh, and Lon & Diane Kinney; and aunts and uncles Kaitlynn Lindsay, Colton Lindsay, Brynn Lindsay, Abdi Steenbergh, Molley Steenbergh, and Lincoln Steenbergh.
Funeral service will be held at noon, Monday November 2, 2026, at Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer, 705 Southway Blvd. East, Kokomo, with Pastor John Dreyer and Vicar Stephen Peeler officiating. Burial will follow in Heaven’s Hands Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. until time of service on Monday at the church. Memorial contributions may be made in Joseph’s memory to Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.
Shirley J. (Surber) Hoel
Shirley J. (Surber) Hoel, of Elwood, Indiana, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Tuesday, October 27, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a beautiful legacy of love and devotion to her family.
Shirley was born on January 31, 1940, in New Castle, Indiana, to Jay Lee and Beulah (Sparks) Surber. Though the winter day was bitterly cold, it marked the beginning of a life that would bring so much warmth and love to those who knew her.
A proud graduate of New Castle Chrysler High School, Class of ‘59, Shirley went on to marry the love of her life, Ernest “Ernie” Hoel. Together, they shared 47 wonderful years of marriage before Ernie’s passing in 2006. Their years together were filled with friendship, laughter, and countless adventures. Whether traveling to Indiana University to cheer on their favorite teams with friends, square dancing, or enjoying their Sunday night bowling league at Wells Lanes, Shirley and Ernie treasured the time they spent together. Above all, they shared a deep love for family, a value they lovingly passed down through the generations.
Together, Shirley and Ernie built their greatest pride and joy: their family. Their three sons were the center of their world, and Shirley embraced every moment of being a mother. Wherever Ernie was coaching, Shirley could be found right alongside him, proudly serving as the devoted team mom. She was also a Den Leader for Cub Scout Troop #385, always finding ways to support and encourage her boys.
Shirley was a wonderful cook who believed in the importance of gathering around the dinner table. No matter how busy life became, she made sure her family enjoyed a home-cooked meal each evening. As their boys grew, the Hoel family enjoyed countless vacations and adventures throughout the United States, creating memories that would be treasured for generations. Shirley was rarely without a camera, faithfully capturing the special occasions, everyday moments, and family milestones that meant so much to her.
Following Ernie’s retirement in 1997, the couple built their dream home in Nashville, Indiana. It became a special gathering place where their family continued making some of their most treasured memories. After Ernie’s passing in 2006, Shirley returned to Elwood to be closer to the family she loved so dearly.
Shirley was as hardworking as she was devoted to her family. She spent much of her career at Excello, where she worked as a skilled trades cutter and grinder. Known for her remarkable precision and talent, Shirley became one of the best at her trade, capable of sharpening aircraft blades with a speed and skill that few could match.
After retiring from Excello in 1987, Shirley continued to stay active and involved in her community. She worked in the cafeteria at Elwood High School and later devoted herself to caring for her mother. That experience inspired her involvement with the Bartholomew County Alzheimer’s Association, an organization that held special meaning in her life.
Following her mother’s passing in 2001, Shirley found a new role at the Columbus Jay-C store, where she became known as the “Sample Lady.” After returning to Elwood in 2007, she kept herself busy working at Taylor’s Dairy. No matter where she worked, Shirley had a way of leaving a lasting impression on those she met.
Shirley was a member of Main Street Wesleyan Church in Elwood and a former member of Walker Chapel in Rosstown, Indiana.
Of all the roles Shirley held throughout her life, none brought her greater happiness than being a wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family was her greatest accomplishment, and the love she poured into each generation will remain a lasting part of her legacy.
Shirley leaves behind her three beloved sons, whom she always affectionately referred to as her “boys”: Ernie (Cindy) Hoel, Randy (Rana) Hoel, and Tim (Stephanie) Hoel.
Her legacy of love lives on through her nine cherished grandchildren: Jeremy (Timaree) Hoel, Christopher (Brittany) Hoel, Jared Hoel, Megan (Colin) Schaefer, Chelsea (Andrew) Meyer, Jordan Hoel, Brandon (Jordan) Hoel, Tiffanie (Zack) Hoel, and Tyler Hoel. She was also blessed with 18 great-grandchildren, each of whom will carry a special piece of her love into the generations to come.
Shirley is also survived by her sister-in-law Donna Sue Burris, along with many extended family members and dear friends.
She will be especially missed by her loyal four-legged companion Buddy, who brought her comfort, companionship, and unconditional love.
Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband Ernest L. Hoel; her father Jay Lee Surber; her mother Beulah Lena Prewitt; her stepfather Russell L. Prewitt; and her sisters-in-law Velma Jean Davis, Wilma Jane Firth, and Edna Mae Ballenger.
A funeral service celebrating Shirley’s life will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, November 2, 2026, at Heritage Christian Church, 1509 S. D Street, Elwood, IN, with Pastor Jeff Haill officiating. Burial will follow in Elwood Cemetery. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. to the time of the service, at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Shirley’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Bedford Hill Pruitt, Jr.
Bedford Hill Pruitt, Jr., known to friends and family as “B.J.” or “Junior,” passed away on October 25, 2026, at Riverview Hospital in Noblesville, Indiana.
He was born on November 21, 1947, in Mud Lick, Monroe County, Kentucky, the son of the late Bedford Pruitt, Sr., and Martha (Abney) Pruitt. B.J. was the youngest of 12 children.
B.J. proudly served his country in the United States Army, serving 20 years of active duty and an additional 10 years in the reserves. During his military career, he served in the Vietnam War and distinguished himself as an advisor and trainer. He retired as a Sergeant First Class. B.J. always expressed his love for his country, and that love never faltered.
Upon retiring from the Army, B.J. continued to stay active and worked several jobs, including restaurant management and as a military training instructor. His last job was driving a school bus for Westfield-Washington Schools.
B.J. loved life. He really enjoyed cooking for his family and grilling out any chance he could. He loved spending time outdoors, sitting in the sunshine, talking politics, and watching his grandchildren. B.J. had quite the green thumb and could grow just about anything. He put a lot of love and care into his garden and took great pride in everything he grew. He also enjoyed watching old Westerns, especially those starring John Wayne. B.J. was a NASCAR fan and never missed watching a race. Above all, he loved his family and treasured the time spent with those closest to him.
Left to carry on his legacy of love are his children Cynthia Hill (Jeremy), Angela Pruitt (Michael Green), Melissa Pruitt, and Mark Pruitt; grandchildren Brandon Plake, Savannah Hill, Billy Wirick, and Jordan Pruitt; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews who will sadly miss him.
B.J. was welcomed into heaven by his parents Bedford Pruitt, Sr., and Martha (Abney) Pruitt; and siblings George Pruitt, Russell Pruitt, Jessie Pruitt, Jimmy Pruitt, James Pruitt, Iva Watson, Roxie Tooley, Lucielle Rayburn, Floy Mitchell, Jean Morgan, and Corrine Geralds.
A visitation for B.J. will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 314 N. Main Street in Tipton, Indiana. A funeral service celebrating B.J.’s life will begin at 1:00 PM, with Pastor Aaron Purvis officiating. Burial and Military Honors will take place on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Marion National Cemetery.
Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve Bedford’s family in their time of need.
Anthony Donald LaCluyse
Anthony Donald LaCluyse, 39 years old, passed away Monday afternoon, October 26, 2026, by means of a car accident. He was born in Kokomo, IN, on December 3, 1986, the son of Kathy (Roberson) Novinger.
Anthony attended Western School Corp. He worked in construction and general contracting and was currently employed by Hansen & Homes, LLC. Anthony was the ultimate outdoorsman. He was passionate about any activity outdoors, but especially hunting, fishing, and kayaking. He had a strong work ethic. Anthony adored his daughter and lit up any chance they spent time together.
He is survived by his mom Kathy (Wayne) Novinger; daughter Alayna LaCluyse; sister Sara (Troy) Meadows; grandparents Jean Sosbe and Charles Roberson; niece and nephews Ashton Young, Cameron Young, and Sophia Meadows; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; the mother of his daughter Suellen; her children Makayla, Katie, and Shawn; and countless dear friends who meant the world to Anthony.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Donald and Alice LaCluyse and maternal grandfather Richard Sosbe.
Anthony’s family would like to extend an appreciation and gratitude for the woman and angel who was with him and prayed with him after the car accident. We will never forget what you did for him.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, IN 46902. A funeral service celebrating Anthony’s life will begin at 4 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions and any checks may be made to Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, c/o a future education fund for Anthony’s daughter. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.
Linda Jean (Politte) Moon
Linda Jean (Politte) Moon, age 56, of Festus, Missouri, passed away Sunday, October 25, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Festus. She was born May 8, 1970, in St. Louis, Missouri, the daughter of the late Donna R. (nee Stout) and Eugene L. Politte.
Linda’s life was filled with experiences, challenges, and memories that shaped the woman she became. Her story lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the generations of family who carry a piece of her with them.
She is survived by her longtime partner Michael Kirk; her four children Hallie (Andrew) Gust of Kokomo, Indiana, Natalie (Roger) Pettit of West Mansfield, Ohio, Kayla (Patrick) Smith of Mishawaka, Indiana, and James Bayes of Riggins, Idaho; her beloved grandchildren Landon (Krystal), Jayden, Emma, Elijah, Benjamin, Gabriel, Emberlyn, Ezekiel, Madelyn, Brielle, Asa, Olivia, Vivian, Wade, Eleanor, Sebastian, Ada, Tyler, Kaelynn, and Aiden; along with three great-grandchildren; her brothers Leonard (Sharon) Politte, Rick (Jeanie) Politte, and Charles Politte; her sister Ann Christopher; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother Ron Politte; her sisters Carol (Politte) Duncan and Donna Lynn (Politte) Wideman; and her infant siblings Rose Marie and Larry Politte.
Linda’s memory will live on through the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the love passed from one generation to the next. Her legacy continues through the many lives connected to hers, and she will forever remain a part of her family’s story.
Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until time of funeral services at 11:00 AM, Friday, November 6, 2026, at Lebanon Baptist Church, Bloomsdale, Missouri, officiated by Pastor Jeff Fleeman. Interment will follow in Concord Cemetery, Bloomsdale.
Eric Joseph Cross
Eric Joseph Cross, 67, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on October 28, 2026, in Kokomo, Indiana.
He was born on February 2, 1959, in Kokomo, Indiana, to Mettie and Paul Cross. Eric lived his life with a steady hand, a creative spirit, and a warm heart that touched the lives of many who knew him. He was a lifelong resident of the community he called home, and he carried with him a deep appreciation for family, hard work, and the simple joys of everyday life.
Eric graduated from Kokomo High School and later attended the John Herron Art Institute in Indianapolis. His education reflected both his practical nature and his artistic side, qualities that remained with him throughout his life. He worked in construction and built custom homes, taking pride in the skill, care, and craftsmanship he brought to his work. Those who knew Eric understood that he was handy, creative, and dependable, and he approached each project with dedication and pride.
A Christian by faith, Eric lived with values that were evident in the way he treated others. He was known for his loving nature and his easygoing personality. He had a gift for making people smile and was always telling jokes, bringing laughter and lightheartedness wherever he went. He also enjoyed drawing, which gave him another way to express his creativity and imagination. Whether he was working with his hands or sketching on paper, Eric found joy in creating something meaningful.
In his free time, Eric enjoyed playing pool, horseshoes, and gardening. He also loved cheering on the Colts and Pacers, following his teams with enthusiasm and loyalty. These interests brought him happiness and gave him time to relax and enjoy life’s pleasures. He especially valued the moments spent with family and friends, and he will be remembered for the warmth and humor he shared so freely.
Eric is survived by his daughter Ashlei Smith (Andy Williams) and by his three grandchildren Brayden, Kaelyn, and Marlei, who brought great joy to his life. He is also survived by his siblings David Cross and his wife Terri, James Cross and his wife Val, Janice Arnett, and Robin Mickler, along with several nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his father and by the love of his life Dot.
Eric will be remembered for his kind heart, his creative talents, and the love he showed to those around him. His presence brought comfort, laughter, and strength to his family and friends. Though his passing leaves a deep void, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com
John I. Dixon
John I. Dixon, age 65, of Frankfort, Indiana, passed away on October 26, 2026, in the same town where he was born on January 14, 1961, and where he spent his life leaving behind a trail of laughter, hard work, and unforgettable stories.
Born to Erma Mae and George Vernon Dixon, John came into the world in Frankfort and never really lost his connection to it. He graduated from Frankfort High School and, like many men who knew how to get things done, he enlisted in the United States Army right after graduation. That was John in a nutshell. He did not just talk about duty, grit, and showing up. He lived it. After his military service, he worked in factories, in maintenance, in roofing, and in automobile mechanics, proving that if something needed fixed, built, repaired, or rescued, Dixon was the right man for the job.
He carried himself with a quiet strength that people noticed, even when he was busy being the funniest guy in the room. John had a way of making ordinary moments memorable, and he could turn a simple conversation into a full comedy special without ever seeming to try. He was selfless, intelligent, and interesting, which is a rare combination and, frankly, a difficult one to beat.
He loved playing guitar and loved playing music, and that love was not just a hobby. It was part of who he was. Music gave him another way to connect, to relax, and to share joy with the people around him. He also loved rebuilding his Harleys with his son and riding them, which was the kind of father-son project that sounds practical until you realize it also involved grease, patience (lack thereof), pride, and probably a few jokes that should have been written down. John enjoyed having a good time with his friends and family, and he made sure that good times were never in short supply when he was around.
John is survived by his daughter Jadi Dixon and his son Dustin Dixon (companion Amy Shelton), stepdaughter Kandra Polston, grandchildren Aven John Booth, Naomi Jade Krasinski, Leland Alfaro, Mia Hiatt, Maverick Shelton, and Marleigh Shelton, sister Dixie Sims (Paul), and by the mother of his children Alisha King.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Terry Dixon.
Those who knew John will remember a man who worked hard, loved deeply, and laughed often. He had a personality that filled a room. He was the kind of man who could make you laugh when you were trying to be serious, which is either a gift or a public service, depending on the day. His life was built on family, friendship, music, and a whole lot of character.
John Dixon will be remembered for the way he lived with humor, heart, and honesty. He was a man who could fix things, make people laugh, and leave behind stories that will be told for years. His family and friends will carry forward his memory with love, gratitude, and probably a few smiles that arrive right in the middle of tears, because that is exactly the kind of legacy John would have appreciated.
Thank God it’s Friday!
A Celebration of Life will be published in the following days.
City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com