Pamela Ann Rippy, Charles Hunter Jr., Robert Bellarmine Bomhack, Gerald Vincent Sutherlin, Jr., Raymond Keith Pullen, Carole Elaine McCool, Charles D. Yocum, John C. Barker
Pamela Ann (Long) Rippy
Pamela Ann (Long) Rippy, 72, of Kokomo, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 25, 2025. She was born in Tipton on August 8, 1953, to her parents James Long and Margaret (Tidler) Long.
Pam was a graduate of Tipton High School in the class of 1972. Later in life, she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from IU Kokomo. Many will fondly remember Pam from the years she worked for Tipton School Corporation. She was a “cafeteria lady” as well as a bus driver.
In Pam’s down time she enjoyed reading and working puzzles. She was upbeat and encouraging; definitely a fun person to spend time with. Pam was a proud mother and grandmother, and her family was precious to her. She will be so greatly missed!
Those left to carry on Pam’s legacy of love are her children Mike Rippy and Melissa Webb; grandchildren Charles (Lexi) Webb, Brendon Webb, Grace Rippy, and Jacob Rippy; great-granddaughter Lyra Webb; brother Jimmy (Kathy) Long; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Pam was preceded in death by her parents James and Margaret Long; ex-husband Jim Rippy; and sisters Gloria Ruth (Susie) Holliday, Pearl Gallagher, and Linda Reed.
A funeral service celebrating Pam’s life will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 314 N. Main St. in Tipton, with Pastor Steve Brown officiating. Visitation for family and friends will take place prior to the service from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the funeral home.
Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rippy family in their time of need.
Charles “John” Hunter Jr.
Charles “John” Hunter Jr., 86, of Tipton, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, December 26, 2025, at The Waters of Tipton. He was born on November 1, 1939, in Odon, Indiana, to Charles Hunter Sr. and Josie (Strong) Hunter. John was a proud graduate of Odon High School, Class of 1958.
A lifelong hard worker, John began earning money at a young age with a paper route. Over the years, he worked as a gas station attendant and later as a mechanic at Goodyear in Kokomo, gaining skills that stayed with him throughout his life. He went on to dedicate more than 30 years of service to Chrysler, working in the Casting Plant until his retirement in 1998.
John was a skilled carpenter who took great pride in woodworking and gardening; hobbies that reflected his patience, craftsmanship, and strong work ethic. He also enjoyed watching the Indianapolis Colts, doing any kind of yard work, and working alongside and serving with his fellow Lions Club members.
He was deeply involved in his community and fraternal organizations, holding membership in the Masonic Lodge Howard 9311, Scottish Rite, Shriners, Lions Club, UAW Local 1166, and the Church of Christ.
John will be remembered for his dedication to his work, his hands-on skills, and his commitment to the organizations and values he held dear.
Those left to carry on John’s legacy of love include his two daughters Misti Gayle and Mel Eby (Hans); grandchildren Chris Yeary, Cole Yeary (Savannah), Bria Lange (Cody), and Paige Clark (Tyler); 14 great-grandchildren; his brother Gary Hunter (Marsha); his sisters Jan Sitez and Pam Frazier (Ron); along with several nieces and nephews.
He was welcomed into Heaven by his parents Charles Sr. and Josie Hunter; his sons Charles Hunter II and Jeff Hunter; and his brothers Tom Hunter, Jerry Hunter, and Ron Hunter.
A funeral service celebrating John’s life will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, 314 N. Main St., Tipton. Visitation for family and friends will take place prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Committal will follow at Fairview Cemetery.
Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hunter family in their time of need.
Robert Bellarmine Bomhack
Robert Bellarmine Bomhack, known affectionately as Bob to his friends and family, was a beacon of optimism and love throughout his life. Born on June 18, 1959, in Glenview, Illinois, Bob was a man whose presence was as warm as the summer sun of his birth month. On December 28, 2025, Bob passed away peacefully in Kokomo, Indiana, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him.
Bob was the cherished son of Raymond and Bernadette Bomhack, and his life was a testament to the values they instilled in him. He was a loving brother to Regina Corkill (Gary), Dave Bomhack (Ellen), Mary Neuman (Terry), Thomas Bomhack (Rose), Edmund Bomhack, and Frank Bomhack, and a caring brother-in-law to Sue Bomhack. His siblings will remember him as the glue that held the family together, always ready with a word of encouragement and a smile that could light up a room. He is also survived by his wife La-Rue.
A proud graduate of Loyola Academy’s class of 1977, Bob’s thirst for knowledge led him to Oakton Community College, where he earned an Associate’s Degree in IT computers. His passion for technology paved the way for a fulfilling career, working at Cal Comp and various other companies, where he was not only a skilled IT professional but also a friend and mentor to his colleagues.
Bob’s life was a reflection of his Catholic faith, which was the cornerstone of his existence. He lived his beliefs through his actions, showing love, extending friendship, and embodying an unwavering optimism that inspired everyone around him. Bob’s faith was his compass, guiding him through life’s storms and into the calm waters he so loved to navigate with his boat.
Family was the heart of Bob’s world. He was a devoted father to Jacqueline Lipke, Linda Rogers (Will), Sarah Bomhack, and Mary Bomhack. His children were his pride and joy, and he instilled in them the values of love, faith, and friendship. Bob was also a doting grandfather to Kiara Lipke, James Rogers, and Oliver Rogers, who will carry forward his legacy of kindness and joy.
Bob’s love for life was evident in his hobbies. He was an avid boater, finding peace and solace on the water. His sharpshooting skills were honed at the shooting ranges, where he enjoyed the focus and precision the sport required. Bob was also renowned for his amazing Labor Day and New Year’s Eve parties, where his friendly spirit and loving nature turned guests into family.
Those who had the privilege of knowing Bob would describe him as the epitome of an optimistic, loving, and friendly soul. His ability to see the good in every situation, to lift the spirits of those around him, and to spread love unconditionally was truly remarkable. Bob’s life was a sermon of joy, his actions a prayer of compassion, and his memory a blessing to all.
As we bid farewell to Robert Bellarmine Bomhack, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, a journey marked by unwavering faith, boundless love, and a spirit of true friendship. Bob’s legacy will continue to shine brightly through his family, his friends, and the countless lives he touched. He now joins his beloved parents, his son Dan Goad, his brothers Raymond and Mark Bomhack, his sister Bonnie Bomhack, and his in-laws Jacqueline and James Little in eternal peace.
Bob’s life reminds us that every day is a gift, and that we, too, can choose to live with an optimistic heart, to love without reservation, and to extend friendship to all. Let us honor his memory by embracing these virtues and carrying his light into the world. Rest in peace, dear Bob; your spirit lives on in the love you’ve left behind.
Bob will be reunited with his family in All Saint’s cemetery in Des Plaines, Illinois in the coming weeks. City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com
Gerald Vincent “JR” Sutherlin, Jr.
Gerald Vincent “JR” Sutherlin, Jr., 68, Kokomo, passed away at 8:40 p.m. Saturday, December 27, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born February 27, 1957, in Lafayette, Indiana, the son of the late Gerald Sr. & Pauline E. (Farner) Sutherlin.
JR was a 1977 graduate of Western High School. He worked for Chrysler Corp. prior to his accident which left him disabled. His interests were watching the Chicago White Sox and the Indianapolis Colts. When JR was in his 20s, he tried out for the Cincinnati Reds. He was an avid sports card collector and loved listening to WWKI and watching his favorite shows on TV, such as Leave it to Beaver, Little House on the Prairie, Highway to Heaven, the Munsters, and the Addams Family.
JR is survived by his sons Gerald “Jake” Sutherlin III and Jeremy (Claire) Sutherlin; grandchildren Aralynn Sutherlin, Loralai Sutherlin, Lucas Sutherlin, and Hermione Sutherlin; sisters Teri Sams and Pam; and former spouse Julia Mitchell.
JR was preceded in death by his parents.
In keeping with JR’s wishes, no services will be held. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation. If anyone would like to help, Transformation Christian Church has started a meal train for the family, https://mealtrain.com/3yw6lw.
Raymond Keith Pullen
Raymond Keith Pullen, 92, of Walton, passed away 5:46 a.m. Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Waterford Place Health Campus in Kokomo. He was born on April 16, 1933, the son of Keith and Pauline (Butz) Pullen.
Raymond was a 1951 graduate of Young America High School. He once worked at Leffert’s Greenhouse in Walton. His main job was working as a farmhand and raising poultry. Raymond will be remembered for being a simple man. He was fascinated with flowers and gardening.
He is survived by his brothers Larry (Barb) Pullen and Kenny (Kathy) Pullen; nieces and nephews Judy Thomas, Kevin (Dawn) Pullen, Jane (Art) Michael, Dave (Challi) Pullen, Tim (Alicia) Pullen, Mike (Amy) Pullen, Jeremy Pullen, Janelle (Gary) Short, and Josh (Julie) Pullen; countless great-nieces and nephews; and several great-great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Ronald (Joyce) Pullen.
A private graveside service will take place at Center Cemetery in Young America, with Pastor Brent Cripe officiating. Contributions may be made in Raymond’s memory to the Center Community of Faith Church. Stout & Son Funeral Home – Russiaville Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.
Carole Elaine (Stinson) McCool
Carole Elaine (Stinson) McCool, 81 years old, of Sharpsville, passed away 2:51 p.m. Friday, December 26, 2025, at her home. She was born in Elwood, IN, on August 10, 1944, the daughter of the late Robert H. and Mona L. (Stout) Stinson. On June 30, 1962, she married Virgil R. McCool, and he survives.
Carole was a 1962 graduate of Lapel High School. She and her husband Virgil founded McCool’s Carpet Service in 1967. The foundation of the business was built on hard work and family, both traits Carole exhibited throughout her life. She was the best caretaker to her family, providing home-cooked Sunday meals each week. Carole was a humble and God-fearing woman who wanted other people to receive the credit. She had a great relationship with the Lord and attended Heartland Church in Tipton.
In addition to her husband Virgil, Carole is survived by her children Cheryl Gappens and Douglas (Carmen) McCool; brother Brian (Chris) Stinson; grandchildren Bradley (Kelly) Mitchell, Allison (Nathan) Maude, Luke (Antionette) McCool, and Raegan (Cameron) Cooper; great-grandchildren Drew and Ellie Mitchell and Callie Maude; dear niece Laura Harney; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings Malcolm Stinson and Debbie Copp; and son-in-law Jerry Gappens.
Private family services were held and burial took place in Brookside Cemetery in Windfall. Contributions may be made in Carole’s memory to the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center – IU Foundation. Stout & Son Funeral Home – Sharpsville Chapel was entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.
Charles (Charlie) D. Yocum
Charles (Charlie) D. Yocum, 78, born on February 24, 1947, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2025. He was born on February 24, 1947, to Charles and Dora Yocum. He worked for General Motors and Delphi as a machine repairman until his retirement. Charlie met the love of his life at General Motors, and they were married on April 26. 1997. They had a wonderful life together. He was an avid fisherman and loved the outdoors. Charlie never met a stranger.
Charlie is survived by his loving wife Belva; daughter Kerry (Matt) Waite; stepchildren Dawn (David) Thomas and Shawn (Amy Olaf) Harris; grandson Jackson Waite; also, four step-grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Preceded in death by his parents and a brother.
There will be no services for Charlie due to his wishes. He will be greatly missed.
John C. “Chuck” Barker
John C. “Chuck” Barker, 75, passed away early Saturday morning, Dec. 20, 2025, in the comfort of his own home.
Born in Logansport, Indiana, on Nov. 15, 1950, he was the third of four children of Charles Z. and Wilma Jean (Wicker) Barker, and graduated from Lewis Cass High School, class of 1968. On Dec. 13, 1985, he married Sherry J. (Holcombe) Barker of Hartford City in Boone County, Kentucky.
John was a long-time railroad engineer, primarily for Norfolk Southern. During his time at NS, he served as a union representative and mentor to many younger railroaders. In retirement, he served as the primary caregiver to his wife Sherry, who suffered from multiple sclerosis. In the 1990s, inspired by his childhood growing up on a farm, John transformed his back lot into a robust garden that provided fresh produce for his family, friends, and neighbors. A true Hoosier, John was passionate about basketball of all levels.
He leaves behind sons: Cory (Rachelle) Barker and their son Hutchison of State College, Pennsylvania; Kristopher (Laura) Folsom, and their children Kyle, Ashlyn, Gabby, and Everlee of Yuma, Arizona; his siblings: Mark (Carla) Barker of Peru, Indiana; Peg Brown of Galveston, Indiana; and Mary (Mark) Schopper of Brownsburg, Indiana; his sister-in-law Amy (Dan) Fanning of Upland, Indiana; his best friend Dale (Karen) McKee of New Castle, Indiana; his grandchildren Marvin, Jacqui, Gavin, Madison, and Brice; and many nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren.
The family would like to give special thanks to Brenda Hughes of Hartford City, who cared for John and his wife Sherry in their final years, and the team at Southern Care Hospice Services.
John is preceded in death by his mother on Apr. 30, 1985; his father on Jan. 24, 2004; his wife on Nov. 14, 2024; his son, Kevin, on Jul. 29, 2022; and his brother-in-law, Dale Brown, on Oct. 24, 2019.