Obituaries, January 25, 2024

Written on 01/25/2024


Clyde G. Forsythe

Clyde G. Forsythe, 87 of Ft. Wayne passed away at 12:05 p.m. on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at St. Anne Randallia Place in Ft. Wayne. Clyde was a former resident of Sharpsville for many years. He was born in Carroll County, Missouri on March 24, 1936, to William H. & Francis Catherine (Bingham) Forsythe. On July 18, 1971, he married Martha Jane Hunter. The couple enjoyed 32 years of marriage before her passing on July 15, 2004.

Clyde worked at Continental Steel in Kokomo. He proudly served his country as a peacetime soldier in Germany as an Army Engineer. Clyde also used to “hobby farm” 18 acres; he loved to garden and can his fresh grown produce. He was an avid bird hunter and enjoyed playing his guitar. He also loved to go ride his BMW motorcycle on warm summer days and nights.

He is survived by two children, Tony E. Forsythe and wife Alison of Ft. Wayne, and Bobby E. Forsythe and wife Spring of Galveston; four grandchildren, Alova Chianna Chadwell and husband Aaron, Gracie E. Forsythe, De Michael Forsythe, and Daniel Gene Forsythe. He was preceded in death by his wife, Martha; siblings, Donald H. Forsythe, Wilbur Forsythe, Barton Forsythe, Lucille Krupf, Johnny Forsythe, Erma Ralls, Vernon Forsythe, Bill J. Forsythe, and Evelyn L. Perry.

Clyde’s funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 27 at Young-Nichols Funeral Home with Steve Brown presiding. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until service time on Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Tetersburg Cemetery with Military Honors conducted by the United States Army and the Tipton American Legion Post.

Condolences for Clyde’s family may be left on his obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, 1101 S Waugh St., Kokomo, Indiana, 46902.



Eric Shawn Foust

Eric Shawn Foust, 54, of Kokomo, passed away unexpectedly January 20, 2024, at St. Vincent Hospital in Kokomo. He was born June 25, 1969, in Kokomo to Donald Keith Foust and LaVonne (Chambers) Thomas. He played basketball for the Eastern Comets before moving to the Walton area where he graduated from Lewis Cass High School in 1988.

Shawn was employed at Chrysler/Stellantis as a cutter grinder for the past 25 years. His passion was racing. He loved working on his race cars, riding his Harleys and four wheeling in his RZR. He loved spending time in Tennessee at Pioneer and Brimstone and traveling. One of his favorite things in the world was his mom’s homemade potato salad, nobody could make it like she did. He was a member of NHRA (National Hot Rod Association), ABATE Motorcycle Organization, NMRA/NMCA and UAW Local #685 in Kokomo.

Surviving family include his mother and stepfather, LaVonne and Okie Thomas of Kokomo, his fiancée Donna Conatser of Kokomo and his beloved dogs, Ellie Mae and Jaxs. And countless racing friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Donald Keith Foust and his grandparents of whom he was very close to.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Galveston First Baptist Church, 207 S. Sycamore Street in Galveston, Indiana. Services will follow visitation at 5:00 p.m. with Pastor and special friend, Sean Cooper officiating. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Shawn’s Memory. Murray Weaver Funeral Home in Galveston has been entrusted with arrangements. www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com



Naithan Allen Chorrushi (Roark)

Naithan Allen Chorrushi (Roark), age 19, of Kokomo, Indiana passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024. He was born in Kokomo, Indiana, to Chad and Christina (Chorrushi) Roark on October 7, 2004. He had battled epilepsy since he was 5 years old. He was very smart. His favorite school subject was science, but he enjoyed learning about anything and everything. He especially enjoyed learning about space and wanted to one day visit Mars. His favorite activities were hunting with his Dad, watching movies with his Mom, playing Mario with his brother, and spending time with his dogs, Buster and Baylee. He will be deeply missed.

Naithan is survived by his parents, Chad and Christina Roark; brother, Braidan Roark; grandmothers, Sherri Chorrushi and Debbie Scott; great-grandfather, Robert Williams; uncle, Derrick Chorrushi; aunt, Christy (Ed) Merriweather; and cousins, Jewell Chorrushi, Elijah Merriweather, D.J. Chorrushi, Whitney Chorrushi, Faith Merriweather, Josh Merriweather, Aryonna Chorrushi and Lilly Chorrushi.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandmothers, Jewell Williams and Rose Kail; and grandfathers, Tony Chorrushi and Lane (Grandpa Chicken) Roark.

A time of visitation for Naithan will be held Monday, January 29, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary & Crematory Center, 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, Indiana 46902, followed by a funeral service at 6:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the family to help with Naithan's funeral expenses. Condolences and messages of comfort may be left at www.ellersmortuaryandcremationcenter.com.



Charles Cambron Doran

Charles Cambron Doran, aged 91, passed away on January 18, 2024, after a lengthy illness. He was a beloved father, grandfather, husband, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Charles was born on March 23 in Maryville, MO to William & Agnes Doran. Charles was the youngest and last surviving of the 6 children: William, Eugene, Marvin, Mary Louise (Gilbert), and James.

Charles went on to attend Northwest Missouri State University, where he met his wife, Maxine Hull. After their marriage in 1958, he proceeded to take Maxine on a 5-year multi-state odyssey, which would result in 4 children: Sedalia, MO (David), De Queen, AR (Dan), Amarillo, TX (Susan), Grants, NM (Sandra). On December 27th, 2023, Charles and Maxine celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

It was in Amarillo, TX that Charles started his 25-year Finance career with the US Forest Service. The USFS took the family to Cadillac, MI, eventually settling in Bedford, IN with the Hoosier National Forest. After his retirement, he and Maxine moved to Tipton, IN in 1992.

Charles never shied away from travel adventures. His Navy service aboard the USS Onslow (AVP-48) and U.S.S Princeton (CVA-37) 1952-1955 took him to throughout Asia and the South Pacific. He and Maxine continued to explore, visiting every US state, including Alaska and Hawaii, Canada, and New Zealand.

In his free time, Charles enjoyed playing golf and in his later years, going to the casino (he called it physical therapy), and quietly sharing his knowledge and wisdom with others. Charles is survived by his wife, 4 children, 6 grandchildren: Nathan, Andrew, Evan, and Jordan Doran (David & Laura), Alex and Michelle Gerdom (Susan & Andrew Gerdom). Charles had 2 great grandchildren: Caroline and Juliette Doran (Nathan & Laura Doran)

A small, graveside ash interment service will be held for family and close friends on April 7, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at St. John Cemetery in Tipton. Young-Nichols Funeral Home in Tipton is handling the arrangements. His celebration of life will be held April 8 to coincide with the total solar eclipse as he when he would wax philosophically about life after death and that our souls do not merely reside in heaven but become part of the universe. We encourage those who knew and loved Charles to take part in this celestial event and think of him whenever they contemplate life, nature, world phenomenon and the cosmos.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St John the Baptist New Church Building Fund. Online donations can be made at Stsjohnandjoseph.com or checks can be sent to St John the Baptist 335 Mill St, Tipton, IN 46072-1403



Naomi Dunning

Naomi Dunning, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2024, in Peru, Indiana. Born on April 14, 1935, in Mt. Vernon, Missouri, Naomi's vibrant spirit and nurturing presence touched the lives of many throughout her 88 years.

The daughter of the late William Clifford Maddox and Bertha Violetta (Rich) Maddox, Naomi was a cherished sibling to her brothers and sister. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Johnnie Dunning, whom she married on June 2, 1954, and passed away on January 24, 2005. Her loving son, John Dunning, also preceded her in death.

Naomi's legacy is carried on by her beloved family, including her daughter-in-law Debbie Dunning, son Alan (Chris) Dunning, daughter Karen (Tony) Mendenhall, brother Odell (Joyce) Maddox, sister Anna Mann, and brother-in-law Don Mann, who has passed. Her grandchildren, Cory (Wayne Brindle) Mendenhall, Erica Silence, Ashleigh (Jeremy) Geiger, Toni Mendenhall, Jackie (Chris) George, Nathan (Rebekah) Dunning, and Erin (Doug) Stidham, along with her great-grandchildren, Hailey, Logan, Bethany, Chase, Maura, Oliver, Kathrine, William, Kinley, and John, will forever cherish the memories and the love she shared.

A proud graduate of Arura High School in 1952, Naomi's work ethic and dedication were evident throughout her 22-year tenure at Gen Core Manufacturing, from which she retired at the age of 61. Her commitment to her community shone brightly during her 10 years as a pink lady at Dukes Memorial Hospital, where she offered comfort and care to countless individuals.

Naomi's life was a reflection of her passions and interests. A long-time member of Zion Chapel, her faith was a cornerstone of her existence. She found joy in working word search puzzles, playing the piano, and singing melodies that would resonate in the hearts of those around her. An avid card player, Naomi's love for games like Euchre was only matched by her enthusiasm for bingo in her later years.

Her sense of style was unmistakable; Naomi was always dressed snazzy, often complemented by a new bag or shoes. She had a flair for fashion and loved her hats, each one a statement of her spirited personality. Her home was adorned with colorful flowerpots, a testament to her appreciation for beauty in all its forms.

Naomi's zest for life was contagious, and her famous quote, "Love you to the moon and back," encapsulated the depth of her affection for her family and friends. Known for her spontaneous shopping trips, an invitation from Naomi meant an adventure was on the horizon, filled with laughter and the promise of finding the perfect treasure.

Those who knew Naomi will remember her as a loving and generous soul, a woman whose spirit could light up a room and whose kindness knew no bounds. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the impact of her love and the memories she created will continue to inspire and comfort those she leaves behind.

Naomi Dunning's life was a journey of joy, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her loved ones. As we say farewell to this remarkable woman, we celebrate the legacy she has left us—a legacy of love, laughter, and the kind of spirited grace that will never be forgotten.

A celebration of life is pending at this time. Memorial contributions can be sent to the funeral home for The Waters of Peru Nursing Home. Envelopes will be available as well at the celebration of life. City of Firsts Cremation & Funeral Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.



Debra Nolen

Debra Nolen, a beacon of optimism and selflessness, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2024, in Kokomo, Indiana, at the age of 71. Born on January 9, 1953, in Austin, Texas, Debra's life was marked by her unwavering love for her family, her friendly spirit, and her zest for life's simple pleasures.

Debra's journey began as the beloved daughter of Claud A. Rice and Mabel Linder-Rice. Her early years in Austin were filled with the laughter and camaraderie of a large and loving family. She shared her childhood with her sisters Wanda Steve, Nancy Gold, Betty Sue Forster, Loraine Eckart, Lynette, Darlene Harton, and Joyce, as well as her brothers Milford Johnson, Leonard Johnston, Clifton Johnston, and Allen Rice.

In a true testament to love, Debra married her childhood sweetheart, Jackie Wayne Nolen Sr., on June 6, 1969. Their union was a cherished one, lasting until Jackie's passing in 2014. Together, they raised a family of strong and caring sons: Jackie, Cody, and Eddie, who, along with their spouses Robin, Sasha, and the late Jackie Wayne Nolen Sr., continued the legacy of love and kindness that Debra and Jackie had established.

Debra's life was enriched by the joy of her grandchildren, Cedric, Oceana, Zachari, Cody Petro, Blair, Elizabeth Petro, Linda, Ashley, Marlene, and Sethann, and further brightened by the arrival of her great-grandchildren Eli, Kara, R'E, Crimson, August, Noah, Jonah, Sarafaye, Nicholas, Braxtyn, Greyson, Ayla, and Delilah. She delighted in playing and dressing up with them, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Though her formal education concluded after the 10th grade so she could begin her life with Jack, Debra's wisdom and warmth were evident to all who knew her. She dedicated over two decades of her life to working at 7-Eleven, where she was not just an employee but a friend to many.

Debra's interests were a reflection of her love for life and the simple joys it offers. She was an avid bingo player, traveling far and wide to indulge in the game. Her passion for reading was evident in her collection of western and love novels, and she could often be found enjoying episodes of "Texas Walker Ranger," a show that mirrored her own sense of adventure and justice.

In her interactions with others, Debra embodied the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." She lived by this creed, always putting others before herself and ensuring that her presence was a source of comfort and happiness.

Debra's life was a tapestry woven with the threads of kindness, generosity, and love. She leaves behind a legacy that will be carried on by her surviving family members, including her sister Wanda Steve, brother-in-law Greg Harton, her sons and their spouses, her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews, with a special mention to Penny Pierce who provided loving care in her final days.

As we bid farewell to Debra Nolen, we celebrate a life lived with an open heart and an unwavering commitment to her family. Her spirit, characterized by her friendly nature and selfless devotion, will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Debra's memory will be held dear, a reminder of the profound impact one life can have on so many.

City of Firsts Cremation & Funeral Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.

 



David L. Dant

David L. Dant, a cherished brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2024, in Amboy, Indiana, at the age of 67. Born on January 19, 1956, in Beech Grove, Indiana, to the late Thomas S. Dant and Patricia A. Carter Dant, David's life was a testament to his hardworking spirit and his boundless generosity.

A proud graduate of Zionsville High School in 1974, David carried the diligence and discipline he learned in his youth throughout his life. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to become the respected owner of DLD Lawn Maintenance and Indy Used Snowmobile Parts. His businesses were not just a source of livelihood but also a means to connect with the community he held dear.

David's zest for life was evident in his many interests. An avid fisherman, he found solace and joy in the tranquility of nature. His passion for snowmobiling was not just a hobby but a reflection of his adventurous spirit. David was always on the move, planning his next road trip, eager to explore new horizons and create lasting memories.

Known for his ability to never meet a stranger, David's warm and welcoming nature meant he made friends wherever he went. His handy skills were always at the service of others, and he took great pleasure in helping anyone in need. Generous to a fault, David's kindness and willingness to share his time and talents were hallmarks of his character.

David is survived by his loving family: sisters Sandra (Eddie) Phillips and Brenda (Levi) Hoover; brothers Michael (Debbie) Dant, Thomas Dant, and Donald (Debbie) Dant; nieces and nephews; Jessica Hobson, Rachel Averitt, Nick Averitt, Thomas Dant, Duncan Dant, Tommy Dant, Eric Woodrum, Robert Dant, Ronald Dant Jr., Johnson Dant, Katherin Rosberg, Donald Dant Jr., and Christina Kragenbrink, and the fond memories of his late brother Ronald Dant and nephew, Kevin Woodrum. His family will remember him as the glue that bound them together, always ready with a helping hand or a word of encouragement.

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." David lived by this credo, touching the lives of many with his selflessness and his unwavering commitment to the well-being of others.

David's legacy is one of love, friendship, and the courage to embrace life's adventures. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will continue to inspire those he has left behind.

As we bid farewell to David L. Dant, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey well-traveled, and a man who was truly one of a kind. May he rest in peace, knowing that his life was a beacon of hope and a source of comfort to many.

City of Firsts Cremation & Funeral Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.