Obituaries, February 5, 2024

Written on 02/05/2024


Joyce A. Henderson

Joyce A. Henderson, 96, Sharpsville, passed away at 11:05 pm on Friday, February 2, 2024, at Waterford Place Health Campus. She was born on November 12, 1927, in Grand Rapids, MI, the daughter of the late William and Lillian (Middleton) Little. On February 19, 1947, in Yuma, AZ, she married William D. Henderson, and he preceded her in death on January 30, 2019.

Joyce graduated from Sharpsville High School in 1946. She worked for JC Penney, Tipton Building & Loan, and Tri Central High School as the secretary. She was a member of the Sharpsville United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir. She was also a member of the Sharpsville Eastern Star, and the card club Jolly Molly’s. She was a wonderful seamstress who took pride in taking care of her family and home. Joyce was a very crafty person and a wonderful oil painter.

Joyce is survived by her daughter, Cheryl (Larry) Myers; grandchildren, Penny (Eric) Zakrzewski, Kelly (Jason) Moffit, and William Kent (Kelly) Henderson; great-grandchildren, Matthew Zakrzewski, Nathan Zakrzewski, Caelan Zakrzewski, Payton (Erik) Beasley, Quinn Moffit, Scarlet Henderson, and William Dean Henderson; great great-grandchild, Ellie Beasley; brother, David Little.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Gary R. Henderson; grandson, Clinton Myers; brothers, Don Little and Arnold Little.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Homes, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Pastor Jason Grant officiating. Burial will follow in Sharpsville Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 4 pm to 7 pm on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sharpsville UMC or the Samaritan Care Givers. Messages of condolence may be made online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Kenneth Lee Thieke

Kenneth Lee Thieke, age 86, of Kokomo, Indiana passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024.

A public visitation for Kenneth will be held Thursday, February 8, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary & Crematory Center, 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. A funeral service will occur Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 1:00 PM, 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. A burial will occur Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery.



Ronald Wesley Rabbits

Ronald Wesley Rabbits, a man of many talents and boundless passion, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2024, in Kokomo, Indiana, at the age of 59. Born on May 21, 1964, in Watsonville, California, to Sandra "Carol" Rabbits and the late John "Jack" Rabbits, Ronald's vibrant spirit and loving nature touched the lives of all who knew him.

Ronald, affectionately known as Ron by his friends and family, was a graduate of Haworth High School, class of 1982. His zest for life and learning led him down a diverse career path. He was a skilled craftsman who remodeled homes with an artist's touch, a union painter who took pride in his work, a courageous firefighter who served his community, a dedicated truck driver who traversed the country, and a creative tattoo artist who left his mark on both skin and hearts. His work ethic and dedication to his trades were only matched by his commitment to his loved ones and his involvement in his community.

Ron's interests were as varied as his career choices. Motorcycle riding was not just a hobby but a passion that fueled his free spirit. He found solace in the roar of the engine and the wind on his face as he explored the open road. Fishing and camping were also pursuits that brought him great joy, especially when shared with his family. Ron's happiest moments were those spent surrounded by his loved ones, creating memories that would be cherished forever.

Described by those who knew him best as loving, passionate, and handy, Ron was a man who could fix almost anything and was always willing to lend a helping hand. His love knew no bounds, and he was a source of strength and comfort to his family and friends.

Ron is survived by his adoring mother, Sandra "Carol" Rabbits; his beloved daughter, Kaylee Moon (Jacob); his stepson, Patrick Gump; his cherished grandchildren, Arlo Rabbits, Brook-Lynn Moon, Jacob Moon, Jordyn Moon, Gauge Kendall, Londyn Eldridge, and Blaine Eldridge; his caring sister, Jodi Bitner; and several nieces and nephews who will miss his guidance and warmth. His life was enriched by the love of his girlfriend, Peggy Arnold, who stood by him with unwavering support.

Ron was preceded in death by his father, John "Jack" Rabbits; his daughter, Tiffany Kendall; his sister, Terri Ross; and his wife, Louchelle Rabbits. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and he carried their memories with him every day.

Ronald Wesley Rabbits lived a life full of love, adventure, and service. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the work he accomplished, and the memories he created with those who loved him. As we say goodbye to this remarkable man, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to inspire us to live fully, love deeply, and help others whenever we can.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Ron, you will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. Your journey on earth has ended, but your story will continue in the hearts of all who were privileged to know you. Rest in peace, dear Ronald, until we meet again. (The draft text of this obituary was generated using artificial intelligence technology)

Nancy Skiles

Nancy Skiles, 69, of Young America, passed away Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at her home. She was born June 8, 1954, the daughter of Howard L. “Jiggs” and Mary Lou (Daggett) Wolf. She married Dan Skiles September 1, 1973, in Young America and he survives.

Nancy was a homemaker and devoted her time to making sure her children and all their friends could have the most fun and fulfilling childhoods possible. She had a huge heart and would help anyone in need at any time, she could never say no. Even a short trip to town could take hours, as it seemed she had friends at every stop. She was very proud to work with her grandpa, father, husband and sons in the family business, Wolf Mack Truck Sales and Service, which she later helped to become Rowe Truck Equipment, and loved to see her grandchildren continue the tradition. In her later years, coffee with her mom was the start of each day. Family always came first for her. She enjoyed playing softball, going to the beach, golf cart rides, and reading any book she could get her hands on. The biggest smiles and loudest laughs came from her grandchildren, Justice, Kale, Brody and Leighton. Her amazing life can't be summed up in just a few sentences, but each person lucky enough to know her could tell you story after story of "that one time with Nance." She was an amazing person who wanted the memories of her to bring smiles. She did not want to be mourned, but remembered by her friends for all the great times they had together.

She is survived by her husband Dan Skiles of Young America; sons, Casey (Ashleigh) Skiles and Lucas (Lindsey) Skiles all of Young America. And her four favorite people, her grandchildren, Justice, Kale, Brody and Leighton. She is preceded in death by her parents.

In keeping with Nancy’s wishes, no services are scheduled at this time. Murray Weaver Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com