Harold Franklin Houchens

Harold Franklin Houchens, aged 76, was called to his eternal rest on February 29, 2024. Born on February 12, 1948, in Crawfordsville, Indiana.

Harold lived a life marked by unwavering dedication to his work, his faith, and most importantly, his family. A loyal employee at Chrysler for 32 years and a member of the local UAW #1166. Harold was respected for his integrity and tireless work ethic. A Clinton Central High School alumnus, he carried the values of his upbringing throughout his life's journey. His steadfast faith was nurtured at the Kokomo Missionary Baptist Church, which he attended regularly. Harold's leisure time would often find him engrossed in the melodies of Johnny Cash amongst friends, competing in his local bowling league, or fulfilling his need for speed at the Bunker Hill Drag Strip.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by his brother, John Houchens (Sandy), his son, Travis Houchens (Amber), his beloved granddaughter, Abigail Evans (Garrett), and his treasured great-grandson, Hudson Evans.

Preceding him in passing were his wife, Betty Houchens of 43 years, his parents, John and Ethel Houchens, and a dear brother, Donuel Houchens.

Harold's presence will be deeply missed and his memory cherished in the hearts of those who knew him.

A visitation for Harold will be held Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary & Crematory Center, 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, Indiana 46902, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM.

Phyllis "G.G." Joan Clark

Phyllis "G.G." Joan Clark, 92, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away March 3, 2024. She was born on July 10, 1931, in Kokomo, Indiana, the daughter of Joseph Sr. and Esther (Watkins) Napolitano. She married Marshall Clark on October 22, 1949. Phyllis and Marshall lived at Diamond Lake, Indiana during the summer and spent winters in Naples, Florida.

She loved playing bingo, square dancing, and going to casinos. Phyllis was a long-time member of Omega Phi Tau Sorority. She also volunteered at the United Way and the American Heart Association. She worked at Delco Radio and Claire's Boutique.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Roger Clark, Pam McCrumb, Paula Herr; grandchildren, Destiny (Bret Echelbarger) Herr, Matt Clark, Josh (Amy) Clark, Scott (Jennifer) McCrumb, Julie (Phil) Williamson; great-grandchildren, Aaron Clark, Adam (Shaylee) Clark, Dylan (Keyton Romero) Clark, Olivia Clark, Bailey (Trent Brown) McCrumb, Abby McCrumb, Cory Fagel, Garrett Fagel; 9 great-great- grandchildren; sister-in-law, Karen Cedars; special dog, Millie.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband, Marshall; in-laws, Ray and Elizabeth Clark; sister, Betty Carr; brother, Joseph Napolitano Jr.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Cindy Napolitano, Kelsey Griffin, Lilly Fisher, Madisyn Shorm, Rochelle Swisher, Ashley Tweedy, and special thank you to Dr. Diane Pfeifer, Dr. Facista, Dr. Peterson, and the wonderful staff at Ascension especially Heather Wells.

Visitation will take place Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at Ellers Mortuary from 11:00 am- 1:00 pm. Funeral services will also take place on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Ellers Mortuary 725 S. Main Street Kokomo, Indiana 46901. Burial will follow at Crown Point Cemetery Kokomo, Indiana. Share a memory with the family at www.ellersmortuary.com.

Bruce Leonard Pilon

Bruce Leonard Pilon, a cherished father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2024, at the age of 65 in Macy, Indiana. Born on October 27, 1958, in Melvindale, Michigan, Bruce was a man of warmth and wit, whose presence brought joy to all who knew him.

Bruce's life was marked by his dedication to his family and his passion for his work. As a warehouse supervisor for Modern Materials from 2001 until the cancer took too much from him in 2022, he was respected for his intelligence and his ability to solve any problem that came his way. His colleagues remember him as a friendly and helpful presence, always ready with a smile and a kind word.

Outside of work, Bruce was a true enthusiast of technology and craftsmanship. He was a fanatic about electronics, often found tinkering with computers or engrossed in the latest computer game, with a particular fondness for FreeCell and Solitaire. His love for woodworking was evident in the beautiful pieces he created, and his skill with flying simulators was unmatched, showcasing his love for aviation in a virtual realm.

Bruce's family was the cornerstone of his life. He is survived by his loving children, Timothy Chad Gaddy (Jordan) and Matthew Shawn Gaddy (Natalia Whirl), who will forever cherish the wisdom and love he imparted. His grandsons, Matthew Shawn Gaddy Jr. and Bruce Lenard Gaddy (Ariel), and granddaughters, Ella Marie Roze Gaddy and Mariana Marie Gaddy, will miss their grandfather's gentle guidance and playful spirit. Bruce also leaves behind five siblings who will remember him as the glue that held their family together, as well as fondly recalling the memories shared with those who preceded him in passing; his five siblings and his parents, Lulu Belle and Kenneth Joseph Pilon, who predeceased him.

Bruce's legacy is one of kindness, intelligence, and handiness. He had the rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his friendly demeanor made him a beloved figure in his community. His intelligence shone through in every aspect of his life, from his problem-solving skills at work to his strategic victories in computer games. His hands were skilled in creating and fixing, leaving behind not just tangible items crafted from wood but also the intangible impact of his deeds.

As we bid farewell to Bruce Leonard Pilon, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. His spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him, and his memory will be treasured in the hearts of his family and friends forever. Bruce's journey through life was a testament to the enduring power of love, the strength of family bonds, and the joy of pursuing one's passions. He will be deeply missed, but the light he brought into this world will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those he touched.

City of Firsts Cremations and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. To share a memory or plant a tree in honor of Bruce, visit https://www.cityoffirstscremations.com

Patricia Ann “Pat” Sloan

Patricia Ann “Pat” Sloan, 85, Kokomo, passed away at 1:12 am Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Waterford Place Health Campus in Kokomo. She was born August 25, 1938, in Michigan City, IN, the daughter of the late Edgar & Mildred (Bentley) Gresham. On March 12, 1965, in La Porte, IN, she married Phillip Sloan who survives.

Pat was an outstanding caretaker and homemaker for her husband and 3 sons. Her family was everything to her and she was very active in their lives. She enjoyed family vacations to Tennessee, going fishing, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Pat also enjoyed bowling and participated in many leagues, traveling all over the country for tournaments.

Along with her husband, Phillip, Pat is also survived by her sons, Robert (Tonya) Sloan, Christopher Sloan and Shawn (Debi) Sloan; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, Jimmy, Mary, Jackie, and Sue.

In keeping with Pat’s wishes, no services will be held. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation.

Vicki Lynn Sipkema

Vicki Lynn Sipkema, 68, Greentown, passed away Monday, February 26, 2024, in her home. She was born August 3, 1955, in Lafayette, Indiana, to John William and Mary Louise (Allison) Townsend.

Vicki enjoyed spending time with her family. The family enjoyed visiting state parks around Indiana, one favorite spot was Lincoln State Park. She loved to decorate her house for all seasons of the year. Vicki really enjoyed decorating for Halloween, she loved watching the kids when they would come up for candy. Vicki spent many years working as a home healthcare professional. She loved her patients and found immense joy in helping them achieve a full quality of life.

Vicki is survived by four sons, Justin (Heather) Kanney, Greentown, Mark (Angie) Sipkema, Greenwood, Matt (Annette) Sipkema, Monon, and Robbie (Kelly) Sipkema, Westfield, along with nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Mary Townsend.

Per Vicki's wishes there will be no public services. Hasler & Stout Funeral Home 112 E. Main Street Greentown assisted the family with arrangements.