Jerry B. Paul, Michael Kent Prifogle, Jacob Alan Burger, Karen Lyn Wooldridge-Cassidy, Jane Annette Alexander

Jerry B. Paul

Jerry B. Paul, a decorated Vietnam veteran and lifelong community advocate, passed away on May 3 at age 76 after a prolonged illness. He spent his final days at the Indiana Veterans Home in Lafayette, surrounded by fellow veterans and family.

Paul served in the Vietnam War from March 23, 1970, to January 24, 1971, as Crew Chief for the 498th U.S. Army Dustoff Helicopter Unit. He was honorably discharged and awarded the Army Air Medal for meritorious achievement in combat. His service deeply shaped his identity and inspired a lifetime of dedication to others.

Recently, Paul was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for exceptional military service as Crew Chief for the 498th U.S. Army Dustoff Helicopter Unit during the Vietnam War. He also received the “Distinguished Hoosier” award from Governor Mike Braun—one of Indiana’s highest civilian honors. The City of Kokomo and Howard County recognized his service and impact with numerous proclamations and awards during his life.

After returning home, Paul earned his bachelor’s degree with honors in Criminal Justice from Indiana University. His passion for law and justice led to his most fulfilling career as a Union Steward at Chrysler Automotive, where he proudly represented fellow workers. He was a committed member of UAW Local 685.

Paul’s civic contributions were far-reaching. As President of the Howard County Veterans Memorial Corporation, he led the creation of several veterans’ monuments, including the Blue/Gold Star Family Memorial and the Opha May Johnson Memorial at Darrough Chapel Park. The Women’s Legacy Memorial sits at the Kokomo Courthouse.

His generosity extended to many causes. He launched initiatives like “One Veteran, One Child, One Million Tabs” for the Ronald McDonald House, Caps for a Cause, and the “Veteran Friendly Business” program. He volunteered for organizations including the Gilead House, Habitat for Humanity, the Jackson Commons Veterans’ Shelter, and supported fundraising for juvenile diabetes research.

To those who knew him, Jerry was more than a decorated veteran—he was a compassionate neighbor who gave without hesitation. Many of his acts of kindness were never publicized but deeply felt by those he helped.

He is survived by two brothers David and Gary Paul, three children Christian Moore, Nick Paul, and Summer Langston, and five grandchildren Tyler Moore, Beverly Paul, and Fox, Barringer, and Violet Langston.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 17 at UAW Local 685, 929 E. Hoffer St., Kokomo. Visitation begins at 10:00 AM, followed by a ceremony with military honors performed by the United States Army and VFW Post #1152 Military Rites Team at 12:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Howard County Veterans Memorial Corporation to keep supporting causes that meant so much to him during his life.

Jerry Paul’s life was a testament to service—to country, to community, and to one another. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Michael Kent Prifogle

Michael Kent Prifogle, age 74, passed away on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

A graveside service for Michael will be held Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Sunset Memory Garden Funeral Home & Cemetery, 2097 W. Alto Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902.

Jacob Alan Burger

Jacob Alan Burger, a cherished son, brother, and grandson, left this world too soon on May 9, 2025, at the age of 28. Born on February 7, 1997, in Kokomo, IN, to parents Renee Perry and Jason (Desier) Burger, Jacob's infectious laughter and adventurous spirit brought joy to all who knew him. He passed away in the same town that witnessed his first breath, surrounded by the love of his family.

Jacob was a proud graduate of Eastern High School, where he discovered his passion for music as a dedicated member of the drum line in the marching band. His rhythm and energy were the heartbeat of many performances, and the skills he honed there stayed with him throughout his life. After high school, he furthered his education at Hobart Welding School, where he excelled and went on to establish a respected career in his field.

In addition to his parents, Jacob leaves behind his brother Jarett Burger, who was not just a sibling but a lifelong friend and confidant. He is also survived by his loving grandparents Russell Ricks, Truman Burger, and Darlene Burger. Jacob was preceded in passing by his grandmother Vianna Ricks and grandfather Willie Perry. His family members will hold onto the cherished memories they created together, finding comfort in the legacy of love and laughter he left behind.

Jacob's sense of humor was unparalleled; he had a knack for lightening the mood and could make anyone smile. Those who knew him will remember his thoughtfulness, as he always put the needs of others before his own. An adventurer at heart, Jacob never shied away from an opportunity to explore, whether it was a new hiking trail or a spontaneous road trip.

His love for music remained a constant throughout his life. It was not just a hobby but a lifeline that connected him to others and to the world around him. Jacob's rhythm will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who loved him, a comforting reminder of the joy he spread.

Jacob's journey may have been shorter than we had hoped, but the depth of his impact on our lives is immeasurable. He taught us to savor every moment, to laugh heartily, and to embrace life's adventures with open arms. We are grateful for the time we had with Jacob and for the countless memories that will forever be a testament to his vibrant spirit.

As we say goodbye to Jacob Alan Burger, we celebrate the light he brought into this world. His story does not end here; it continues in the lives he touched and the love he shared. Jacob's legacy will be carried forward by his loved ones, who will honor his memory by living life to the fullest, just as he did.

City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com

Karen Lyn Wooldridge-Cassidy

Karen Lyn Wooldridge-Cassidy, a beacon of love and joy, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025, in Marion, Indiana, at the age of 72. Born on February 3, 1953, in Pontiac, Michigan, Karen's life was a tapestry of cherished moments and enduring relationships.

Karen was the beloved daughter of Murry Wooldridge and Evelyn Knight. She grew up in a lively household with her sisters Diana Kuntz (Stub), Wanda Likens (Mike), Pamela Gard (Mark), and her brother Wayne Wooldridge. Her formative years were filled with the warmth of family and the close-knit bonds that would define her life.

A proud graduate of Marion High School's class of 1972, Karen carried the spirit of her education into every aspect of her life. Her career was marked by her dedication as a manager at the Pet Warehouse and her compassionate work in the Activities department at Riverbend Nursing Home. It was there that she met Linda Bemman, who became the love of her life and with whom she shared many cherished memories.

Karen's life was a testament to the power of love and the joy of family. She is survived by her loving sons Brian Cassidy (Amanda) and Jerry Cassidy Jr. (Amber), and her adored grandchildren Brian Samos (Adrienne), Rileigh Cassidy, and Schuyler Cassidy. Her legacy continues to bloom through her great-grandchild Sienna Samos. Karen's life was further enriched by the love and companionship of her siblings, who stood by her through every season of life.

Preceding her in death were her parents, the father of her children Jerry Cassidy Sr., and her cherished companion Linda Bemman. Each of them held a special place in her heart and shaped the woman she became. Also preceding her in passing is her brother Michael Wooldridge-Ruckman.

Karen's interests painted a picture of a woman who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. In her earlier years, she enjoyed quilting with her mother and siblings, a tradition that stitched together memories and comfort. She reveled in the art of baking, especially during Christmas, when she joined her mother and siblings to create sweet treats that delighted the senses. Nature was a source of solace and inspiration for Karen, and she cherished her time at Lake Cumberland in Kentucky, where she watched her family and grandchildren fish amidst the serene backdrop.

Her creative spirit found expression in painting ceramics alongside Linda, and her nurturing touch was evident in the care she devoted to her home and garden. Word search puzzles were a favorite pastime, providing quiet moments of reflection. Karen's love for her father was profound, and she treasured the quality time they spent together.

A tradition that Karen held dear was visiting the garden center each year with her sisters Pam and Diana, a ritual that celebrated the changing seasons and the enduring bond of sisterhood. The apple orchard and pumpkin patch were annual destinations that brought joy and a sense of wonder. Her weekly visits with her son Brian and his family were the highlights of her week, as she cherished every moment with her loved ones. Karen cherished the many pets she shared with her family over the years, and her most recent she leaves behind, "Sylvie."

Karen was best described by those who knew her as loving, funny, and generous. Her laughter was infectious, her heart was open, and her generosity knew no bounds. She had the rare ability to light up a room and make everyone feel at home.

As we bid farewell to Karen Lyn Cassidy, we celebrate a life lived with boundless love and an unwavering commitment to family. Her legacy of kindness, humor, and generosity will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Karen's memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories shared, the traditions continued, and the love that endures.

City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com

Jane Annette Alexander

Jane Annette Alexander, age 93, of Nashville, Tennessee, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. She was born October 2, 1931, in Wabash, Indiana, to the late Robert and Alice Gaunt.

Jane was a graduate of Ball State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. She worked for 40 years at St. Joseph Hospital as an RN where she helped start the first cardiac ICU unit in the city.

She is survived by her sister Janice Wilson, her son David (Elizabeth), her son Bruce (Nancy), her grandchildren Barrett Alexander, Sarah Lassiter, Kyle Alexander, and Elliot Alexander, and her great-grandchildren Sallie Lassiter, Leif Alexander, and Valkyrie Alexander.

In addition to her parents Jane is preceded in death by her husband Robert Alexander and her brothers Jerry and Jack Gaunt.

A private family service will take place at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery, 2097 W. Alto Rd. Kokomo, Indiana 46902.