Candra Mae Nelson

Candra Mae Nelson, 61, Greentown, passed away at 2:30 a.m. Saturday, September 7, 2024, at her home. She was born May 28, 1963, in Kokomo to Richard and Sandra (Michael) Guge. On January 26, 1990, she married Brian Nelson, who survives.

A 1982 Haworth High School graduate, Candra went on to work in special education and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from St. Mary of the Woods College in 2013. She was a dedicated teacher, caring for and educating children with special needs. Candra was a devoted wife and mom who cherished time spent with her family. She will be remembered for her love of reading (especially Jane Austen), chocolate, and Diet Coke.

She is survived by her husband, Brian Nelson; children, Jamie (Thomas McClain)) Bentley, Jennifer Nelson, and Breeanna (Jordan) Crook; grandchildren, Haleigh, Brooklynn, Lyla, Shealee, Alekzander, Kemberly, Benjamin, and Levi; sisters, Sandra Cavazos and Margie Rosenbaum; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Mark Guge.

A graveside service will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 12, 2024, in Greenlawn Cemetery, Greentown. A celebration of Candra’s life will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Phi Delta Kappa Beta Nu, 2401 Saratoga Ave Kokomo, IN 46902. Hasler and Stout Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left at www.hasler-stout.com.

Robert “Bob” Benjamin Smock

Robert “Bob” Benjamin Smock, 76, of Russiaville, passed away at 8:49 p.m. Sunday, September 8, 2024, at Community Howard Regional Health in Kokomo. He was born in Frankfort, IN, on September 10, 1947, the son of the late Robert L. Smock and Geraldine (Watkins) Lemen. On February 14, 1997, he married Vicki Bertram, and she survives.

Bob was a 1966 graduate of Frankfort High School. He proudly served our country in the United States Army from 1966 through 1968 and earned the rank of Sergeant. He was recognized with a National Defense Service medal, two Over Seas Service Bars, and several other badges and honors. He retired from Chrysler in 2001 after 35 years of service in quality inspection. His favorite hobbies were playing tennis and pickleball with his friends. Bob’s greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Vicki, Bob is survived by his children, Krisstopher (Britney Vestey) Smock, Lyndsey (Joey) Dyer, Kristin (Ryan) Jenkins; sister, Diane Lemen; grandchildren, Evan Smock, Preston Dyer, Quinn Dyer, and another grandson due in October; nieces, Jennifer (Michael) Hammontree, Jamie McCook; and dear friend, Jim Rawls.

He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Geraldine and Gene Lemen; father, Robert L. Smock.

Bob’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Annette Moore, DR. Karthik Polsani, Paradigm Hospice, and Community Howard TMS nurses for the excellent care they provided to him.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. Funeral service will begin 10 a.m. Friday, September 13, 2024, at the funeral home with Pastor Aaron Perry officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memory Garden. Military honors will be provided by the United States Army and the Kokomo VFW Military Rites Team. Contributions may be made in Bob’s memory to the American Cancer Society.

Larry Lee Cook

Larry Lee Cook, 78, Kokomo, stepped into the arms of his Heavenly Father on Sunday, September 8, 2024. He was born September 22, 1945, in Kokomo to Arlie Eugene & Christine Marie (Speigle) Cook. On July 14, 1980, in Kokomo, he married Joyce Bell, and she survives.

Larry was a 1963 graduate of Northwestern High School. Larry worked for 46 years at the only job he ever had, as a dedicated employee at the Maplecrest Kroger in Kokomo. He often said that the best part was meeting and talking with the people, and in turn he was known and loved by many customers.

In his retirement, and before his health deteriorated, Larry played golf and bowled with his best friends, Jeff Goltry, Doug Pier, Walt Adams, and Brian Adams. You could also find him listening to country music while walking or riding his bicycle. Larry loved and served the Lord faithfully, and the love of Christ emanated to all who knew him.

Larry was an avid reader and frequent visitor to our local library. He enjoyed working crossword puzzles. Larry loved the warmth of the sun and being outdoors. He had a passion for meticulously maintaining his lawn, mowing, trimming, and blowing the trimmings away to keep a beautiful property.

He is survived by his devoted and beloved wife of 44 years, Joyce Cook; children, Darrin (Kelly) Cook, Andrea Carrie (Greg Heitman), Julie (Bryan) Rich, Susan (Marlin) Schul, Eric (Meghan) Johnson; grandchildren, Gabrielle Cook, Cole Cook (Taylor Lamb), Chase Cook, Austin Carie, Alex Carie, Amber Hieston, Emma (Dillon) Dowell, Madison Schul, Alyssa Schul, Mia Schul, Ella Johnson, Claire Johnson, Kathryn Johnson, Lily Johnson; great grandchildren, Carson Walker, Pynes Cook, Rooker Cook; sisters, Joyce Clarkson, Arletta Reith, Peggy Hose; brother-in-law, Gary (Jane) Bell; several nieces and nephews; and a special cousin Richard (Dinah) Hackard. Larry was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Pat (Don) Bottom, Jack Markley; and his brother-in-laws, Dick Clarkson and Mike Hose.

The family offers special thanks to Fresenius Dialysis Center, his home away from Home, for taking such good care of him these past 14 years. He often remarked that you were all angels.

A funeral service celebrating Larry’s life will be held at Noon Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Pastor Stan Sutton officiating. Visitation will follow the service at the funeral home until 3:00 p.m. Private burial will be held later at Ball Hill Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Larry’s memory to the American Kidney Foundation, Bona Vista, or to Cross America. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Ms. Nearlean Walker

In loving memory of Nearlean Walker (Casteal).

Nearlean Walker, aged 81, of Kokomo, Indiana, peacefully departed this world on September 4, 2024, to embrace her eternal rest with God. Born on July 4, 1943, in Corsicana, Texas, she was the fourth of 12 beloved children of Cleveland and Geneva Casteal.

Nearlean's journey of life began with her education at Artesia High School in Artesia, New Mexico. After graduation, she pursued her passion for caring for others by attending nursing school, which led her to work at Topeka State Hospital in Kansas. It was there that she met and married the love of her life, David Walker. Following this new chapter, Nearlean ventured into the automobile manufacturing industry with American Motors, relocating to Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Throughout her life, Nearlean remained deeply committed to her community, proudly serving as a leader and member of the 23rd Avenue Church of Christ in Kenosha. In 1989, she transferred to the Kokomo Transmission Plant in Indiana, where she dedicated many years to Chrysler until her retirement in May 2007. Her spirit of solidarity was embodied in her active participation with UAW Local 685 and various organizations such as The Red Hat Society, the American Cancer Society, and numerous UAW programs. Nearlean also cherished her role as Vice President of the Kids Over Fifty-Five at the Kokomo Senior Center, where her kindness and compassion made a lasting impact.

A beacon of unwavering strength and generosity, Nearlean's selfless service enriched the lives of all she encountered, leaving an indelible legacy of love that will be fondly remembered by family and friends alike. Her dedication to putting others before herself exemplified the beautiful spirit she embodied.

She leaves behind cherished memories in the hearts of her siblings, including Wanda Sue Carter, James Casteal (and wife Tammy), Delphine Hollins (and husband Oasker), and Pamela Buitimea, along with her sister-in-law Molly Casteal (Herron). Nearlean was a loving mother to her daughters, Tammy Casteal and Dr. Marquita Reid (and husband Recardo Reid). She took immense pride in her grandchildren, Khalil (Hunny) Carter, Kezia Casteal, Kreshundra Casteal, DeAndre Casteal-Calvert, Christian Calvert, Jaidin Calvert, Tiyahnna Calvert, and Caleb Reid. Additionally, she leaves behind treasured nephews and nieces, Daymon Casteal, Todd Steven Casteal, LaToya Castro, Alexis Casteal, and Marquisha Casteal, along with a host of extended family and friends.

Nearlean was preceded in death by her beloved parents and several siblings—Fred Casteal, Cleveland Carson Casteal Jr., Arthur, Edward, and Lionel Casteal, as well as her sisters Rachel Pellum, Viola Ledet, and Linda Kay Metcalf. She was also preceded by her niece Rella Chriee Shawnta Hollins and her nephew Oasker Hollins Jr.

As we reflect on Nearlean’s remarkable life, we celebrate the warmth of her spirit and the legacy of love she leaves behind, forever etched in our hearts. Her memory will continue to inspire and uplift all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Final Interment will take place at Valley of the Sun Mortuary & Cemetery, 10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler, AZ 85248

A funeral service will be held for Nearlean on Sat., Sept. 14, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Wayman Chapel AME Church, 920 N. Apperson Way, Kokomo. Visitation for friends and family will take place at 10 a.m. prior to the funeral service.

William W. Mann

William W. Mann, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024.

A time of visitation for William will be held Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Sunset Memory Garden Funeral Home & Cemetery, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. A funeral service will occur Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 3:00 PM, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. A burial with military rites will occur Monday, September 16, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, Indiana 46902.

Beverly Sue (Pope) Hyde

Beverly Sue (Pope) Hyde, age 71, of Houston, Texas, returned to the loving arms of her Savior on Saturday, August 31, 2024. She was born on April 10, 1953, in Anderson, Indiana, and adopted by her parents, Henry & Lucille (Parker) Pope on July 15, 1956. On December 1, 1981, Beverly married the love of her life, Richard Hyde, and the two shared 43 wonderful years together and a lifetime of memories.

Beverly graduated from Tipton High School, class of 1971. She attended college at San Jacinto College where she earned her degree as a certified medical assistant. After college, Beverly worked for Diagnostic Clinic of Houston. Her faith was very important to her and her love for Jesus was contagious. Beverly was a member of the First Baptist Church in Tipton.

Beverly loved everything Halloween, a love she shared with her lifelong best friend, Linda Stacy. She would come back to Indiana every October to celebrate together. She also enjoyed visiting cemeteries, antiquing, scrapbooking, camping, swimming, fishing, collecting medical memorabilia, and crocheting. Beverly felt at home while in nature and always enjoyed the wildlife around her. She had a love for all animals, especially her cherished pets.

Beverly had a heart for others, always ready to help anyone in any way she could. Being in the medical field let her servant’s heart shine bright. The way she cared for those around her was always done with kindness and loyalty. Her family was a top priority, and she will be greatly missed.

Those left to carry on Beverly’s legacy of love are her husband, Richard J. Hyde; sons, Robert C. (Helen) Lee, Stacy B. (Tessa) Hyde; grandchildren, Fabian Hyde, Dusty Hyde; sister, Kathy J. Heppen; brother, Danny E. Hancock; and best friend, Linda Stacy.

Beverly was welcomed into Heaven by her parents, Henry & Lucille Pope; sister, Eva M. Saiter; brother, Richard L. Tharp; and daughter, Michelle M. Lee.

A graveside service celebrating Beverly’s life will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Fairview Cemetery, located at 418 Fairview Drive in Tipton.

Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hyde family in their time of need.

David Mast

It is with great sadness that the family of David Mast, 78, of Bloomington, Illinois, announce his passing at home on September 7, 2024, from congestive heart failure. David had heart problems most of his adult life as he lived with a pacemaker for almost 30 years, but his family is blessed that he was able to live a long life and see his grandchildren born and one granddaughter get married.

David was born on August 28, 1946, in Indiana, to Robert “Bob” and Martha (Horner) Mast. He grew up in the Howard-Miami Mennonite Church community in Waupecong, Indiana. During his childhood, his father owned the feed mill in Waupecong and was a Purina dealer. David was always involved in agriculture as a child whether working alongside his dad at the mill or taking care of the baby chicks in the hatchery. This had an impact on his career choice, and David spent his life in feed sales ultimately retiring from Purina after 24 years.

He is survived by his wife Mary (Hershberger) of Bloomington, IL; three daughters, Marlene (Paul) Bliss of Bloomington, IL; Janelle (Robert) Windmiller of Naperville, IL; and Deborah Mast Smith of Phoenix, AZ; and two sisters, Clarice (Rex) Kling of San Diego, CA and Elizabeth (Roger) Miller of Amboy, IN. He is survived by his grandchildren Allison (Cameron) Burns of Normal, IL; Taylor Bliss of Keizer, OR; Nick Windmiller of Fishers, IN; Zephyr Windmiller, Ava Windmiller, and Claire Windmiller of Naperville, IL; Eric Smith and Brian Smith of Chicago, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents and son-in-law, Paul Smith.

David devoted his life to working in feed sales. Over his career, he worked for Kent Feeds and Yoder Feeds, owned a feed mill (Da-Mar Feed and Supply) in Orangeville, IL, and finished his career with Purina in Colorado. He was a successful salesman and stayed current on industry news. At Purina, he earned multiple awards for his sales accomplishments such as Sales Quest, Team Quest, Summit Club, and the Circle of Achievement Award twice for the highest sales growth from the prior year. David enjoyed working in feed sales as he always enjoyed meeting new customers and talking with people. His family can attest that he would not hesitate to strike up a conversation with a stranger anywhere.

David enjoyed spending time with friends and family and watching college basketball. He enjoyed watching March Madness and passed the love of the tournament on to his daughters. Family and traditions were important to him. He enjoyed the annual tradition of spending a week in Michigan at Little Eden Camp with his immediate family and many cousins.

A visitation will be held at Howard-Miami Mennonite Church, 3976 E 600N, Kokomo, Indiana, on Friday September 20, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral will be held at the same location on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. Burial to follow in Mast-Hensler Cemetery. Funeral services will be provided by Hasler-Stout of Greentown, IN. Messages of condolence may be left at www.hasler-stout.com.

Benjamin “Benny” L. Wisher

Benjamin “Benny” L. Wisher, 69, of Kokomo, passed away on Friday, September 6, 2024, at Community North Hospital. He was born on August 21, 1955, in Kokomo, the son of Norman L. and Sharon S. (Bennett) Wisher. On October 6, 1979, he married Kimberly L. Foreman, and she survives.

Benny graduated from Kokomo High School in 1973. He retired as a mechanic for the American Legion after previously working at Southside Marathon for over 30 years. Benny was an avid outdoorsman where he enjoyed golfing, fishing, and hunting. He was a big Kokomo High School wrestling, and both girls’ and boys’ basketball fan. Benny loved spending time with his friends and family, especially attending all his grandchildren’s extracurricular activities. He enjoyed life and making people laugh. Benny was a member of the American Legion Post 6, NRA, and was boat captain for the kids’ fishing clinic for numerous years.

Along with his loving wife of 44 years, Kimberly, Benny is survived by his children, Jennifer (Shaun) Arnold, and Harry (Kaely Leary) Wisher; bonus daughter, Kara (Ryan Murphy) Lovegrove; grandchildren, Mallory Arnold, Willow Wisher, Dylan Wisher, and Ben Arnold; siblings, Brian Wisher, Todd Wisher, and Amy Hubbard; brothers-in-law, Myron Moorman, Toby Hubbard, and Tim McElfresh; sisters-in-law, Lori Wisher, and Marcie Walker; uncle, Don Wisher; aunt, Dixie Bennett; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Benny was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters, Deborah Moorman, and Paula Myers.

A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at The Venue, 1201 W. Alto Rd. Kokomo. Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, https://www.lls.org/?campaign=390400. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation. Messages of condolence may be left at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Linda Sue Bielewicz

Linda Sue Bielewicz, 78, died peacefully at 8:23 PM on September 7, 2024, in her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on June 6, 1946, in Gary, IN, the daughter of Bill and Jean (Ainsworth) Dance. On August 18, 1967, she married Gerald W. Bielewicz who preceded her in death.

She worked at Indiana University of Kokomo as the Administrative Assistant for the Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs for 26 years. She enjoyed gardening, crafting and jewelry making.

Surviving is her daughter, Nicole (Mark) Houston. She was preceded in death by her husband, mother, father, two brothers, and half-sister.

There will be no services held.

Mark Guge

Mark Guge aka "Pooh Bear", 68, of Greenfield, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024. He was born January 23, 1956, in Kokomo, Indiana, to the late Richard Guge and Judie Sallee. He briefly served in the US Navy after high school.

Mark was an avid sports fans, though controversial he loved the Colts AND the Bears, as well as the Pacers. He found joy in watching Westerns and shared a love of Supernatural with his son. Mark loved to have a good time, he was always joking around and making everybody laugh. He kept McDonalds in business by buying his favorite drink, Coke. He spent the last several years of his life in assisted living and was always ready to break out. He loved when his kids took him out for the day for even a simple car ride. Though he was a troublemaker, he did always return back to the facility when he was supposed to.

Mark is survived by his children Mark Guge II, Brian Guge, Richard Guge II, Jessica Adams (Zackary), and Jay Wright, stepdaughter; Brittany Hamilton (Bradley), 6 grandchildren, sisters; Sandy Cavazos (Agpito) and Margie Guge, as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents Mark is preceded in death by his son Michael Guge, sister Candy Nelson, and his stepmother Sandra Guge.

There will be no public services. Contributions in Mark's memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, Virginia 22116.