Melinda Koralewski, Shirley Ann St. Michel, Verlon Charles Caldwell, Jr., Thomas W. Ticen, Deborah Eileen Shelton, Richard Dewitt, William Bernerd Wagner, Jean R. (Gower) Chalk

Melinda Koralewski

Melinda Koralewski, affectionately known as “Mindy,” passed away on December 26, 2025, at the University of Toledo Medical Center, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion. Born on September 19, 1959, in Kokomo, Indiana, Mindy was a nurturing soul whose primary focus was her family.

Throughout her life, Mindy dedicated herself to the care of her loved ones. Once her children were settled in school, she took on various roles in her career, including that of a PCB assembler and a rehab assistant. Her most recent employment was at EDMT, where she continued to exemplify dedication and hard work.

Mindy’s proudest accomplishments were her beloved grandchildren, whom she cherished above all else. The joy she experienced while being with Tyler and Austyn Balish, along with Bradley and Bentley LaForge, was a testament to the loving Busia she was.

Mindy had a variety of interests that brought her joy during her leisure time. She found happiness in reading, playing cards, and engaging in her favorite game Candy Crush.

She is survived by her devoted husband James Koralewski; her beloved daughters Christina (Bryan) Balish and Heather (Joseph) LaForge; and her cherished grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life. Mindy is also mourned by her siblings Marcie Brown, Mitchell (Teresa) Mittower, and Marvin Mittower; nieces Anna and Abby Mittower; along with her sister-in-law Theresa Evens.

Mindy joins in eternal rest with her father Alan Mittower; stepmother Nadine Mittower; granddaughter Emily LaForge; brother Mark Mittower; mother-in-law Rose Koralewski; and brothers-in-law Carl Evens and Dale Brown, all of whom she held dear to her heart.

Visitation will be held on January 4, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary Service at 6:00 p.m., at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest Toledo, located at 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd, Toledo, OH 43614. A Prayer Service will follow on January 5, 2026, starting at 10:15 a.m., at the same location, culminating in a Mass at Little Flower Catholic Church, at 11:00 a.m. Mindy will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery, at 12:00 p.m., on January 5, 2026.

Mindy Koralewski’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who remember her profound love, devotion, and the laughter she brought into their lives.

Shirley Ann St. Michel

Shirley Ann St. Michel, 75, of Galveston, passed away Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Kokomo. She was born on November 2, 1950, in St. Louis, MO, to John Wright and Imogene (Rood) Maggy. She married Donald A. St. Michel on August 28, 1985, in Kokomo, IN, and he survives.

Shirley retired from Delco Electronics in Kokomo after many years of dedicated service. She was a true pet lover, especially her dogs, of which she had several small Poodles and Maltese mixes. She enjoyed traveling around the United States, fishing, and hunting with her husband Don.

Surviving family members include her husband Don St. Michel of Galveston, her children Laura (Marv) Wyant of Kempton, Brenda (Shane) Bales of Castaic, CA, Jeff (Sheri) St. Michel of Sharpsville, and Diana St. Michel (Mike Killlian) of Phoenix, AZ. Surviving grandchildren include Courtlyn (Adam) Wray, Alex (Madeline) Winter, Jacob, Bryanna, Alese, Jared, Hannah, Rebecca, and Daniel. She is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Murray Weaver Funeral Home in Galveston with Rev. Fr. Pierre Akoka officiating.

Murray Weaver Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com

Verlon Charles “Chuck” Caldwell, Jr.

Verlon Charles “Chuck” Caldwell, Jr. traded his pain on this earth for a new home with Jesus on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Blair Ridge Health Campus. He had been diagnosed with cancer four years ago. Chuck was born to Verlon Charles Caldwell Sr. and Gerlene Faye (Hatton) Caldwell on September 25, 1956. He was born and raised in Peru, Indiana.

Chuck graduated from Peru High School and then went on to earn an Associate’s degree from Indiana University, and a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Before retirement, Chuck was an employee at Square D in Peru for 13 years, Zimmer Biomet in Warsaw for 21 years, and Chrysler in Kokomo for 10 years.

In his early adulthood, he was active in bowling, golfing, and playing men’s softball on a well-known Peru team called the Moby’s. And, he loved mowing his yard on his zero-turn John Deere tractor. In the last few years, Chuck used his artistic ability by creating no-sew quilt canvases that he enjoyed gifting to others. He attended East Pointe Bible Church in Peru.

Chuck married the love of his life Diana (Kanippe) Caldwell on June 4, 1978. They spent more than 47 years together; 40 of those living in their home in Mexico, Indiana. He had one daughter Abbey Michelle and also two grandsons Colton Gilbert and Julian Conrad, who were the absolute joys of his life. He was so proud of them.

Chuck is survived by Diana and his two grandsons. He is preceded in death by both his parents and daughter.

Chuck’s wishes were to be cremated. However, a Celebration of his Life will take place at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. A memorial service will follow at 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions toward the post-high school education of grandsons Colton and Julian may be received at the funeral home or mailed to Diana at their home.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

Thomas W. Ticen

Thomas W. Ticen, 78, of Sedalia, passed away on January 2, 2026, at 7:45 a.m. at Franciscan Health Lafayette East in Lafayette, IN. Thomas was born on September 11, 1947, in Kokomo, IN, to parents Carl W. and Donnabelle R. (Kammerer) Ticen. He married Katherine A. Poe on November 22, 1968. She preceded him in death on January 24, 2012.

Thomas was a graduate of Rossville High School, class of 1966. He worked as an electrician for Chrysler in Kokomo since 1977 where he was a member of UAW #685. He retired in 2007. He was a member of Northview Church of Flora where he served as a greeter. He was a jack of all trades who enjoyed mushroom hunting, tinkering in his “new” garage, and going with a group of friends to spend a week in Canada. He had a heart for giving to others with his time and talents and for children. He loved spending time with and spoiling his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His love was his family, and he spent most of his time making memories and helping his family with projects when and where he could.

Thomas is survived by his children Angela (Brian) Huffman and Todd Ticen; brothers Robert (Bette) Ticen and James (Sokie) Ticen; four grandchildren Emily (James) Smith, Ben Harper, Megan (Elijah Allen) Yost, and Allison Yost; three step-grandchildren Aspen, Nerak, and Bryce; three great-grandchildren Noah, Jaedon, and Blythe; and four step-great-grandchildren Trey, Trenton, Paxton, and Ka’Varion.

Along with his wife, he was preceded in passing by his parents.

Visitation will be held, Friday, January 9, 2026, from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at 1 p.m. at Day & Genda Funeral Home ~ Bodine Chapel in Rossville. Pastor Dave Fulkenburg will officiate. Burial will follow at Geetingsville Cemetery. Messages of condolence can be left at www.dayandgenda.com.

Deborah “Debbie” Eileen Shelton

Deborah “Debbie” Eileen Shelton, 65, passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, in Kokomo, Indiana.

She was born on October 6, 1960, in Kokomo, Indiana, the daughter of James Sherman Shelton and Catherine Ida (DePalma) Torres.

Born with cerebral palsy, Debbie faced many challenges, and she faced them with a smile on her face and sometimes with a little sass. She loved spending time with her family and friends.

Debbie lived in a group home in Greenwood in her younger years which gave her a sense of independence. She also retained a job at Shares that she enjoyed until she decided to retire because she didn’t want to have to get up early anymore. She would come home often to visit and tell us of her adventures and the new things happening in her life. Gathering with family to have a meal gave her joy, especially if you had Dr. Pepper and chocolate.

Debbie had wonderful times with her friends, going shopping and to restaurants. Her caregivers and staff would take them on trips. She loved the trip to New York and the cruise to Jamaica the most. Later in life, Debbie dealt with some health issues that led her to move closer to family. She settled in and enjoyed being able to see more family more often. She also enjoyed watching the Game Show Network and Real Housewives of Orange County. We will miss her very much.

Thank you to all the family, caregivers, and nurses who helped through the years.

Debbie is survived by her siblings: James “Cherokee” Shelton, Tom (Pam) Shelton, Antoinette Shelton, Marie Shelton-Rayls, Jean (Stanley) Brewer, Lisa LaFond, Steve Sample, Elizabeth Shelton, Stephanie Shelton, Allison Kirchner, and Matt Torres, along with several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, sisters Kathy Sue Johnson and Patricia Clara Shelton, and several aunts and uncles.

Friends are invited to visit the family from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Ellers Mortuary & Cremation Center, 3400 S. Webster St., Kokomo, Indiana. Burial at Albright Cemetery following.

Richard “Dick” Dewitt

Richard “Dick” Dewitt, 86, was born November 20, 1939, in Tipton County, the son of Doyle and Rosalie (Davenport) Dewitt. Dick married Judie Henry on October 22, 1960, and she preceded him in death on September 30, 2012. Dick then married Maggie Diaz on February 28, 2014, and she survives.

Dick graduated from Kokomo High School in 1958. He then joined the police department on January 1, 1962, and retired in 1982. In 1964, he was drafted into the United States Army and was stationed in Washington state until 1966, then continued his career with the Kokomo Police Department. After retirement from the police department, he worked for the trustee’s office.

Dick is survived by his wife Maggie Dewitt; children Mark Dewitt, Jeff (Glenda) Dewitt, Sara (Nick) Campbell, and Kenny (Heather) Diaz; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother Mike Dewitt; several nieces and nephews; and dog Trevor.

Along with his parents Doyle & Rosalie Dewitt, Dick was preceded in death by his first wife Judie Dewitt; brothers Jim Dewitt, Bob Dewitt, Herman (Ruth) Henry, Hugh (Maryellyn) Tennent, and Pat Coburn; and son-in-law Kevin Sheridan.

A private family service will be held with honors provided by the Kokomo Police Department. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Dick’s name to the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

William “Bones” Bernerd Wagner

William “Bones” Bernerd Wagner, 95 years old, of Kokomo, passed away 3:15 p.m. Thursday, January 1, 2026, at his home in Kokomo, IN, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. He was born April 12, 1930, the son of the late Louis Wagner and Mary (Adame) Adams Wagner. On September 29, 1951, he married Frances “Elaine” (Working) Wagner, and she survives.

William was a graduate of Kokomo High School.

He was a devoted member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Kokomo for his entire life. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus organization for many years. He was a hardworking and dedicated father. He cared deeply for his family, church, and community. His children and grandchildren respected and admired his work ethic. He had a subtle sense of humor until he could no longer speak due to his illness. He strived to make his family, friends, and even strangers comfortable and welcome in his life. He was a sports fan, especially of basketball, as he was awarded a scholarship to Butler in 1948. He also attended and graduated from Lawrence Technical Institute with a business degree in 1952. William was a proud American serving in the Army for two years and was deployed to Korea and Japan. He worked at Delco Electronics in Kokomo, Indiana, for more than 25 years.

In addition to his wife of 74 years, he is survived by his children Timothy (Dottie) Wagner of Noblesville, IN, Thomas (Shelly) Wagner of Daytona Beach, FL, Teresa (Larry) Young, Lauren (Mike) Watkins, and Louis (Rhonda) Wagner, all of Kokomo, Matthew Wagner of Speedway, IN, and Andrea Wagner of Burnettsville; grandchildren Sarah Wagner, Leigh Hill, Reid Young, Jay Young, Alex Metcalf, and Davis Watkins; and great-grandchildren, Dylan, Brandon, Denver, Owen, Clay, Ford, Henry, Agustin, Iris, Opal, and Eleanor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, four sisters, and granddaughter Emily.

It was our privilege to care for dad in their home the past few years. We wish to thank Kristian of Southern Care Hospice for her help and support on the rough days.

Dad will be dearly missed in our daily lives but will live in our hearts forever.

Private family burial will be held later at North Union Cemetery in Kokomo. Contributions may be made in Bones’ memory to St. Patrick Catholic Church, The Monastery of the Poor Clares, or the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements have been entrusted to Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Jean R. (Gower) Chalk

Jean R. (Gower) Chalk, 89, of Kokomo, passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Waterford Place in Kokomo. She was born February 21, 1936, in Judsonia, Arkansas, to Ray and Lorene (Hembree) Gower. She was raised in the home of Loyd and Lola Maness. Jean married Harold M. Chalk on December 13, 1955, in Judsonia, Arkansas, and he preceded her in death March 9, 2021.

She graduated from Judsonia High School in Judsonia, Arkansas, and Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. She worked for Montogomery Ward in Kokomo and for Darrell Gillem as a secretary for his Kentucky Fried Chicken franchise. Jean also served as secretary for WE CARE in Kokomo for many years. She spent her life caring for others, finding her greatest joy in being a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and aunt to many. Her nurturing spirit, endless patience, and unconditional love shaped generations and touched countless lives.

Surviving family include her son and daughter-in-law Tom and Carol Chalk of Kokomo, and her grandchildren Jamie (Chris) Martin, Jacob (Whitney) Chalk, and Tiffany Taylor. She is also survived by great-grandchildren Casen Martin, Clayton Chalk, and Taylor Chalk. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Harold, daughter Tami Rody, sister Shirlene Thomas, and brother, T.S. Gower.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Waterford Place Health Campus and Compassus Hospice; especially Meagan for the love she showed to her “Jean Bean.”

In keeping with Jean’s wishes, no services are planned. Murray Weaver Funeral Home is honored to serve the Chalk family.