Jackson County Indiana Obituaries
Jackson County Indiana Obituaries
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ADAMS
A Brownstown man died late Saturday morning when his motorcycle collided with a vehicle driven by a Medora man. Police said Milburn G. Adams, 24, of 220 W. Commerce St., Brownstown, died of decapitation. Police said he was traveling west on U.S. 50 four miles west of Brownstown on a motorcycle. He was not wearing a helmet and was believed to be killed upon impact, police said. Police said Leland Price Wayt, 77, Medora, was driving north on County Road 500W and had stopped at the U.S. 50 intersection. Wayt told police he was nearly across the edge line of U.S. 50 on the north side when Adams struck him. Wayt was reported in stable condition at Jackson County Schneck Memorial Hospital. He sustained facial lacerations. Damage to Adams’ motorcycle and Wayt’s vehicle was estimated between $1,000 and $2,500 each. Police cited Wayt for failure to yield the right of way on a through highway. The incident is still under investigation. Jackson County Sheriff David J. Rorig investigated. He was assisted by Jackson County Coroner Dr. Mark Bevers, Paul Starr of Medora Police Department, Chuck Greger of Brownstown Police Department and Brownstown Fire Department. A member of Brownstown Christian Church, Mr. Adams worked as a welder at Jeff Boat in Jeffersonville. He served for four years in the U.S. Navy. Born Nov. 26, 1965, in Seymour, he was the son of Wade and Mary Alice Overshiner. Both survive in Brownstown. Other survivors include two brothers, Wade Adams Jr. and Jacob Shawn Adams, both of Brownstown; and a sister, Sarah Beth Adams, Brownstown. Services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Zabel Funeral Home, Brownstown. The Rev. Gary Morning will officiate. Burial will be in Smallwood Cemetery near Brownstown. Friends may call from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday and from 9 a.m. until time of service Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Jackson County Juvenile Residence. – Seymour Daily Tribune – September 17, 1990 - submitted by Francie Ede
Bramble Adams, 85, of Clearspring, died at 7:45 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, at his daughter's residence. He was a member of Valley Home Old Regular Baptist Church. He was a carpenter. He was born April 25, 1917, at Blackey, Ky., a son of the late John Adams and Ella Bach Adams. He was married Dec. 23, 1936, at Whitesburg, Ky., to Ethel Collins Adams, and she died July 9, 1998. Survivors include two daughters, Mary Lois Loudin of Seymour and Sharon Sturgill of Clearspring; a sister, Inez Majors of Indianapolis; and 10 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, two sons, John W. Adams and O. D. Adams; a brother, Vincent Adams, and two grandchildren, Sarah Beth Adams and Milburn Adams. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. today, Tuesday, at Valley Home Old Regular Baptist Church near Freetown with Brother Steve Day officiating. Burial will be at Valley Home Old Regular Baptist Cemetery. Friends may call from noon until service time today at the church. Zabel Funeral Home, Brownstown, is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be given to Jackson County Hospice. – Jackson County Banner – February 25, 2003 - submitted by Francie Ede
A 19-year-old Brownstown woman was killed in a two-vehicle accident at 8:44 a.m. Saturday, April 13, on St. Rd. 11 north of Columbus. Police said Sarah Beth Adams was killed when she pulled her vehicle from the driveway of a business into the path of a northbound car driven by Elaine Powell, 48, Columbus. Both vehicles traveled down an embankment on the west side of the road. Adams was pronounced dead at the Bartholomew County Hospital. Powell and a passenger in her vehicle, Sherry Wilson, Columbus, were taken to the Bartholomew County Hospital where they were released after being treated for injuries. Police said rain was probably a contributing factor. Adams reportedly had traveled to Columbus on an errand for her father, John Adams. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 17, at Zabel Funeral Home, Brownstown, with Rev. Gary Morning officiating. Burial will be in the Smallwood Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home today, Tuesday, April 16, from 3 until 9 p.m. and Wednesday from 9 a.m. until time of the service. Miss Adams was born Dec. 25, 1971 in New Albany to John Wade and Mary Alice Overshiner Adams. Her parents survive in Brownstown. She was a 1990 graduate of Brownstown Central High School and was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church. Survivors include the paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Bramble Adams, Brownstown Rt. 1; two brothers, John Wade Adams Jr. and Jacob Adams, both of Brownstown, and three nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother. Memorials may be made to the church youth group. - Jackson County Banner – April 16, 1991 - submitted by Francie Ede
CAMPBELL
Alfred Campbell Sr., 64, of 615 Mill St., died at 9:20 p.m. Saturday at his home. He had been in failing health several months. Mr. Campbell retired in 1977 from the H.O. Canfield Co., Seymour, after 20 years’ service. He was a World War II veteran and was a member of Seymour Post 89, American Legion, and the local 40 et 8. Born Feb. 26, 1915, in Columbus, he was a son of Fred J. and Mayme E. Hoggins Campbell. On Nov. 21, 1934, he married Violet M. Henderson, who survives. Also surviving are five children, Alfred Campbell Jr., Little Acres; Barbara Deane Shipley, Merrill Lynn Campbell Sr., Michael Lee Campbell, all of Seymour; and Cynthia Gayle Piercefield, Columbus; 17 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; a sister, Mrs. Kathryn Geary, Indianapolis; and a niece. Services will be conducted at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday from Voss Chapel with the Rev. Ronald A. Mueller officiating. Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery, with military graveside rites. Friends may call at any time at Voss Mortuary. - Seymour Daily Tribune – October 8, 1979 - submitted by Francie Ede
Couple Found Dead in Car - A man and a woman were found dead in a car parked along a county road near Honeytown on Saturday morning, March 3. The pair apparently died of carbon monoxide poisoning. The victims were Norma Ann Campbell, 37, Brownstown, and William E. Martin, 32, Bedford Rt. 3. Their bodies were discovered at 9:16 a.m. on Co. Rd. 300-N near the White Creek Bridge east of Honeytown. According to police, a passing motorist, Jack McKain, saw the parked car and stopped to investigate. He found the pair in the front seat of the car and immediately notified the Jackson County Police Department. Sgt. Richard Goben, the investigating officer, said that when he arrived at the scene the car ignition was on and the radio playing, but the engine was not running, apparently having run out of gas. Jackson County Coroner Keith Burkholder, who was called to the scene, stated that carbon monoxide poisoning was the apparent cause of death. Burkholder reportedly said foul play had been “ruled out” of the investigation. The coroner placed the time of death at approximately 3:30 a.m. Saturday, about 6 hours before the couple was found. Mrs. Campbell was born Nov. 22, 1935, in Brownstown, the daughter of the late Otho and Uvah Green Overshiner. She was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church and worked at Sparton Indiana, Inc. She was formerly married to Alfred Campbell Jr. Three children survive: Gordon Ray, serving with the U.S. Army in Frankfort, Germany; Bradley J., at home; and Herchana, also at home. Other survivors are 3 sisters: Mrs. Damon Reynolds, Brownstown; Mrs. James Johnson, Tampa, Fla.; and Mrs. John Adams, New Albany. Services were held Tuesday, March 6, from the Zabel Funeral Home, with the Rev. Larry Morris, assistant pastor of Brownstown Christian Church, officiating. Burial was in the Smallwood Cemetery. - Brownstown Banner – March 7, 1973 - submitted by Francie Ede
Violet M. Campbell, 70, of 816 Evergreen Drive, Seymour, died at 3:10 p.m. Saturday, at Jackson Park Convalescent Center, Seymour, after a four-month illness. She was a housewife. Born Feb. 1, 1917, in Jackson County, she was the daughter of Arthur Raymond Henderson and Flora Izora Davis. She lived her entire life in Jackson County. She married Alfred Campbell Sr. on Nov. 21, 1934, in Columbus. He preceded her in death on Oct. 6, 1979. Survivors include three sons, Alfred Campbell Jr., Seymour R4; Merrill Lynn Campbell Sr. and Michael L. Campbell, both of Seymour; two daughters, Mrs. Jack (Barbara D.) Shipley, Seymour R5, and Cynthia Gayle Piercefield, Columbus; 17 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Marvin Henderson, Frost Proof, Fla., and Oral Henderson, Seymour. Two brothers preceded her in death. Services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Voss Chapel, Seymour, with the Rev. D.G. Morris officiating. Burial will be at Riverview Cemetery, Seymour. Friends may call from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. today and from noon until time of service Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Heart Fund. Seymour Daily Tribune – April 6, 1987 - submitted by Francie Ede
COLLINGSWORTH
Funeral rites were held Monday afternoon from the Winklepleck Funeral Home for 71-year-old Speed Harrison Collingsworth, who had been a resident of Brownstown for more than a half-century. Mr. Collingsworth, who had been in failing health for about seven years and bedfast a greater part of the time since suffering a stroke of paralysis a year ago, died about 3:30 o’clock Friday afternoon. His condition had been critical for two days. A native of Berea, Kentucky, he was born December 9, 1885, a son of the late Ed and Caroline Collingsworth. In 1903 he moved to Brownstown for residence. In February of the following year, he was married to Fannie Kindred and to this union were born ten children, five of whom are deceased. Those surviving are Harry Collingsworth, of Mishawaka; Mrs. Eva Barnes, of Indianapolis; Mrs. Hubert Ashcraft and Mrs. Vivian Weasner, of Seymour, and Mrs. William Rochner, of Brownstown. On June 3, 1942 he was married to Ethel Bidwell Lee, who survives. To this union was born one son, Speed Collingsworth Jr., at home. Also surviving are 21 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Mr. Collingsworth was a laborer and was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church. Bob Martin, pastor of Vallonia Christian Church, was in charge of the funeral service and interment was in Fairview Cemetery here. - Brownstown Banner – July 31, 1957 - submitted by Francie Ede
DEFIBAUGH
Carl E. Defibaugh, 75, Brownstown, died at 9 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22, at Memorial Hospital in Seymour. He had been ill for six months. He was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church and was a World War II veteran. He retired in 1982 from Kieffer Paper Mill and was a former deputy with the Brownstown Police Department. He was a member of American Legion Post 112, Brownstown Veterans of Foreign Wars, Washington Lodge F&AM 13, Order of Eastern Star 264, Fraternal Order of Police, and Hickory Hills Golf Course where he was a board member for four years. He was born Jan. 26, 1920 in Richmond to the late Carl E. and Leona Corter Defibaugh. He moved to Jackson County in 1940. He married the former Rebecca Megan Gray on March 1, 1941 in Bedford, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 5, 1976. He married Roberta Jane Rochner on April 19, 1987 in Indianapolis, and she survives. Other survivors include three sons, Terry Dennis Defibaugh, Jackson, Miss.; Joseph Danny Defibaugh, Deputy, and M. Jonathan Rochner, Evansville; four daughters, Carla Jean Miller, Seymour; Kem Watts, Peru; Marcia McKinney, Indianapolis, and Rebecca Poe, Jeffersonville; 16 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother. Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. today, Thursday, Jan. 25, at Winklepleck-Weesner Funeral Home in Brownstown with Gary Morning officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Brownstown, with full military rites. Friends may call at the funeral home today from 8 a.m. until time of the service. Memorials may be made to the Brownstown Christian Church or the donor’s choice. - Jackson County Banner – January 25, 1996 - submitted by Francie Ede
GREEN
Mrs. Anna Green, wife of William E. Green, owner of Green’s Market in Ewing, died early Sunday morning at her home here. Mrs. Green had been in a wheel chair since suffering a stroke of paralysis twelve years ago and her condition had been critical since a second stroke suffered about ten days ago. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon from Brownstown Christian Church in charge of Bob Martin, pastor of Vallonia Christian Church. Interment was in Fairview Cemetery here. Mrs. Green, who was sixty-two years old, had spent all of her life in Brownstown where she was born on April 28, 1895, a daughter of the late Louis J. and Rosa K. Krantz Rochner. She and Mr. Green were married here on April 2, 1913. Surviving in addition to the husband are a daughter, Mrs. Otho Overshiner, of Brownstown, four grandchildren, one great-grandchild, a brother, William E. Rochner, and a sister, Mrs. Ezra Young, all of Brownstown. Mrs. Green was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church and was held in high esteem by a wide circle of friends. - Brownstown Banner – August 7, 1957 - submitted by Francie Ede
William E. “Bill” Green, 72, retired Brownstown merchant, passed away Saturday at 10 p.m. at the Rose Lawn Annex in Seymour after being in failing health for the past year. Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. from the Brownstown Christian Church with Rev. Lacey Satterfield, pastor, in charge. Burial in Fairview Cemetery. Friends may call at any time at the Zabel Funeral Home in Brownstown and between 1 and 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Brownstown Christian Church. He was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church. Born November 16, 1891, in Brownstown Township, he was the son of the late Jacob A. Sr., and Alice Lewis Green. He was a life-long resident of Jackson County. On April 5, 1913, he was married in Brownstown to Anna Rochner. She preceded him in death on August 5, 1958. Surviving are four granddaughters, Mrs. Alfred Campbell, Jr., of Madison; Mrs. Wade Adams, of Brownstown; Mrs. James Johnson, of Columbus, and Mrs. Anna Margaret Overshiner, at home; three great-grandchildren; a brother, J. A. “Obb” Green, of Freetown R1; a sister, Mrs. J. M. Callahan of North Vernon, and two step-sisters, Mrs. Nellie Stilwell, of Freetown R1, and Mrs. Rella Goss, of Jonesville. One daughter, two brothers and three sisters preceded him in death. - Seymour Daily Tribune – December 30, 1963 - submitted by Francie Ede
MARTIN
Couple Found Dead in Car - A man and a woman were found dead in a car parked along a county road near Honeytown on Saturday morning, March 3. The pair apparently died of carbon monoxide poisoning. The victims were Norma Ann Campbell, 37, Brownstown, and William E. Martin, 32, Bedford Rt. 3. Their bodies were discovered at 9:16 a.m. on Co. Rd. 300-N near the White Creek Bridge east of Honeytown. According to police, a passing motorist, Jack McKain, saw the parked car and stopped to investigate. He found the pair in the front seat of the car and immediately notified the Jackson County Police Department. Sgt. Richard Goben, the investigating officer, said that when he arrived at the scene the car ignition was on and the radio playing, but the engine was not running, apparently having run out of gas. Jackson County Coroner Keith Burkholder, who was called to the scene, stated that carbon monoxide poisoning was the apparent cause of death. Burkholder reportedly said foul play had been “ruled out” of the investigation. The coroner placed the time of death at approximately 3:30 a.m. Saturday, about 6 hours before the couple was found. Mrs. Campbell was born Nov. 22, 1935, in Brownstown, the daughter of the late Otho and Uvah Green Overshiner. She was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church and worked at Sparton Indiana, Inc. She was formerly married to Alfred Campbell Jr. Three children survive: Gordon Ray, serving with the U.S. Army in Frankfort, Germany; Bradley J., at home; and Herchana, also at home. Other survivors are 3 sisters: Mrs. Damon Reynolds, Brownstown; Mrs. James Johnson, Tampa, Fla.; and Mrs. John Adams, New Albany. Services were held Tuesday, March 6, from the Zabel Funeral Home, with the Rev. Larry Morris, assistant pastor of Brownstown Christian Church, officiating. Burial was in the Smallwood Cemetery. - Brownstown Banner – March 7, 1973 - submitted by Francie Ede
MASCHINO
Anthony "Tony" Maschino, 50, of 803 S. Poplar St.,
Brownstown, died at 5:19 p.m. Thursday at his home after an 18-month
illness.
He attended St. Ambrose Catholic Church, Seymour, and retired in August
1986 after 30 years with Cummins Engine Company. Mr.
Maschino was born on March 21, 1937, in Seymour, the son of Frank
Maschino and Mary Vogel. They are both deceased. He is a lifelong
resident of Jackson County. He married Marilyn Wilson on
June 23, 1956, in Seymour. She survives. Also surviving are
two sons, Kevin Maschino, aboard the USS Enterprise, U. S. Navy; and
Greg Maschino, Brownstown; three daughters, Lisa Maschino, White
Plains, New York; Mrs. Brad (Michele) Emerson, Phoenix, Arizona; and
Gina Maschino, Brownstown; three brothers, Orville Maschino, Seymour;
Marvin Maschino, Dell City, Oklahoma; and Joe Maschino, Fort Worth,
Texas; seven sisters, Mrs. Ken (Mary Jean) Kvaal, White Bear Lake,
Minnesota; Annie Hill, Tempe, Arizona; Helen Thoele, Dolores Maschino,
Mrs. Ted (Loretta) Henkle, Mrs. Harrell (Dorothy) Hess and Mrs. John
(Millie) Thomas, all of Seymour. He is preceded in death by a
sister. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at
Winklepeck-Weesner Funeral Home, Brownstown. The Rev. Joseph Sheets
will officiate. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery,
Brownstown. Friends may call from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. today
and from 8 a.m. until time of service Saturday. Memorials can be
made to the Cancer Fund or donor's choice. - Seymour Daily
Tribune - Died: March 26, 1987 - submitted by James D. VanDerMark
MURPHY
Warren Murphy
Seymour, IN. Aug.30,1897
Warren Murphy age 57, and old soldier, was found dead Sunday morning at
the rear of George Lahrman’s saloon at Medora. Mr. Murphy was a member
of the 22 Indiana Volunteers, and has been an inmate of the Soldier’s
Home at Marion. Death resulted from heart failure.
OVERSHINER
Following an illness of two months, David R. Overshiner, age 74, died at his home on Vallonia Rural Route Thursday. Death was due to complications. Funeral services were conducted by the Rev. James Trowbridge Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock. Burial in the Vallonia Cemetery. Mr. Overshiner was a well-known and highly respected farmer. He was the son of Isaac and Melissa Medlock Overshiner, both deceased, and was born on April 18, 1871. In 1902 he was married to Sarah Rich, who survives. He was a member of the Driftwood Christian Church. Surviving besides the widow are two sons, Roscoe and Otho Overshiner, of Brownstown, and three step-children, Oral Griffin, of South Carolina; Mrs. Freda Leffler, of Brownstown, and Armour Griffin. One brother, Floyd Overshiner, of Washington County, also survives. - Brownstown Banner – June 27, 1945 - submitted by Francie Ede
Ethel M. Overshiner, 81, Brownstown, died at 6 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 23, at her residence. She had been ill six years. She was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church and was a homemaker. She was born April 13, 1912 in Green County to the late Chester Owen and Bertha Coleman Bedwell. Survivors include three sons, William “Bill” Lee, Brownstown; Clifford Lee, Columbus, and Speed Collingsworth, Arlington, Tex.; one sister, Eva Robison, Dugger; six grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren. Three brothers preceded her in death. Funeral services were conducted at 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 27, at the Winklepleck-Weesner Funeral Home, Brownstown, with Rev. Doug Lee officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery, Brownstown. - Jackson County Banner – December 28, 1993 - submitted by Francie Ede
A heart attack suffered Friday morning proved fatal to Otho G. Overshiner, life-long resident of this area. Funeral rites were held Monday afternoon from the Zabel Funeral Home in charge of Evan Bolejack, pastor of the Brownstown Christian Church, of which the deceased was a member. Burial was in Smallwood Cemetery in the Ratcliff Grove community. Mr. Overshiner had been in failing health for six months. He was born in Brownstown Township, April 27, 1914, a son of David and Sarah Rich Overshiner and was married on November 21, 1934 to Uvah Green, who died on April 29, 1961. In November 1963, Mr. Overshiner married Ethel Malloy, who survives. Also surviving are: four daughters, Mrs. Alfred Campbell, Jr. of Seymour; Mrs. Wade Adams, New Albany, Mrs. James Johnson, Columbus and Miss Anna Margaret Overshiner, at home. He also leaves seven grandchildren, a brother, Oscar Overshiner, Brownstown R2, a half-brother, Oral Griffin, Romaria, South Carolina and a half-sister, Mrs. Freda Leffler, Brownstown R2. Mr. Overshiner was employed by the Meyers Construction Company of Salem. - Brownstown Banner – August 9, 1967 - submitted by Francie Ede
Mrs. Sarah Ann Overshiner, 78, of Driftwood Township, died at the home of her son, Roscoe Overshiner, near Brownstown Friday morning at 10 o’clock. She had been ill six weeks with a complication of diseases. Mrs. Overshiner was a life-long resident of Jackson County. She was the daughter of the late George and Anna Heimer Rich and was born in Driftwood Township November 15, 1872. She was married twice, first to W. W. Griffin September 5, 1894 and on April 18, 1904, to David Overshiner, both of whom preceded her in death. She was a member of the Driftwood Christian Church, and had many friends. She is survived by five children; Roscoe and Otho Overshiner and Mrs. Freda Leffler, all of Brownstown; Oral Griffin, of Pomaria, S. C., and Armour Griffin. One brother, Jacob Rich, of Indianapolis; 15 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted at the Johnson Funeral Home, Vallonia, Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock in charge of the Rev. James Trowbridge. Burial in the Vallonia Cemetery. - Brownstown Banner – September 5, 1951 - submitted by Francie Ede
Funeral rites were held Monday afternoon from the Zabel Funeral Home for Mrs. Otho Overshiner, who died Saturday at her home here after an illness of five years. E. Lacy Satterfield, pastor of the Brownstown Christian Church, was in charge of the service. Burial followed in Smallwood Cemetery, west of Brownstown. A native of Sullivan County, Mrs. Overshiner, the former Uvah C. Green, was born February 23, 1915, a daughter of William Green and the late Anna Rochner Green. She and Mr. Overshiner were married in Brownstown on November 17, 1934. She was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church. Surviving, in addition to the husband and father, are four daughters, Mrs. Alfred Campbell, of Madison; Mrs. John Adams, Clearspring; Barbara Sue Overshiner and Anna Margaret Overshiner, at home, and two grandchildren. - Brownstown Banner – May 3, 1961 - submitted by Francie Ede
ROCHNER
Charles Rochner, aged 36, of Brownstown, expired suddenly in his automobile Sunday night of heart trouble, while on his way home from Scottsburg. His three companions, Hartley Hotchkiss, Robert Trowbridge and Wayne Malloy, did not know of his demise until they reached Brownstown, thinking that he had fallen asleep as they drove home. The party of four left Brownstown about five or six o’clock Sunday evening driving to Seymour, thence to Scottsburg, where they had planned to attend a picture show. But it was too late when they reached there and they did not go to the show. They left Scottsburg on their return home about 10:30 o’clock, reaching Brownstown about midnight. On their return Rochner asked Malloy to drive the car. As they drove along the other three said they heard Rochner snoring and concluded he had fallen asleep. When they reached here the other three stopped at the Brownstown Lunch for a few minutes leaving Rochner in his car whom they still thought was asleep. Hotchkiss then got into his own car and drove home, while Trowbridge and Malloy got back in the Rochner car and drove to Ewing stopping in front of the Peoples store. There, Trowbridge and Malloy tried to arouse Rochner and discovered that he was dead. The two then went over to the B & O Depot, and Earl Harmon, son of E. C. Harmon, night operator, drove them to the county jail, where they aroused Deputy Sheriff Meredith Stewart, who called Dr. Joe Cummings and Sheriff Otis Hays, and they went to the Rochner car and found Rochner was dead. It was thought that he expired soon after the party left Scottsburg. Coroner Wm. A Dickmeyer was notified and the remains were turned over to undertaker Frank Zabel. Coroner Dickmeyer held an inquest Monday and rendered a verdict that death was due to organic heart trouble. Deceased was 36 years, 8 months and 18 days old. He was a veteran of the World War and served eighteen months in France as a bugler in the 65th Regiment. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Rochner, of Brownstown, two brothers and two sisters, viz: Ralph, William Ernest and Mrs. Wm. Green, of Brownstown, and Mrs. Ezra Young of Keego Harbor, Mich. Funeral services under the auspices of Jackson Post American Legion were conducted at the Christian church this afternoon at 2:30 o’clock, Rev. E. E. Pedicord, officiating, followed by interment in Fairview Cemetery. - Brownstown Banner – November 27, 1929 - submitted by Francie Ede
George “Skunk” Rochner, 79, of Brownstown, died at 8:45 a.m. Monday, Sept. 1, 2003, at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. He was a World War II Army veteran, he was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church, a retired tool and die maker, and he was an avid fisherman, trapper and hunter. Born Dec. 3, 1923 at Brownstown, he was a son of Ralph Rochner and Beatrice Rochner. He married Lois Juanita Reynolds Rochner and she died in 1978. Survivors include a son, Robert Rochner of Warren, Mich.; two daughters, Susie Shell and Jeanie Skaggs, both Brownstown; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and two brothers, Ralph Jr. and Floyd Rochner. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at Zabel Funeral Home with Rev. Jack Shake officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. today and from 10 a.m. until time of service Friday at the funeral home. Graveside military rites will be held. - Jackson County Banner – September 4, 2003 - submitted by Francie Ede
Lillian Marie Rochner, 80, Brownstown, died at 3:10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 8, at her residence. She was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church, Senior Citizens Club of Brownstown, and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10807 Women’s Auxiliary of Brownstown. She was born March 4, 1917 in Jackson County to the late Speed and Fannie Elizabeth Kindred Collingsworth Sr. On Aug. 12, 1933, she married William E. Rochner, and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Shirley Brewer of Vallonia and Mrs. Roger (Jo Ella) Nierman of Brownstown; two sons, Charles Rochner of Atlanta, Ga. and Harry Rochner of Brownstown; a sister, Mrs. Don (Jean) Ray, of Brownstown; a stepbrother, Speed Collingsworth Jr., Mansfield, Tex.; 11 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers, four sisters, an infant brother, and two infant sisters. Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, at Winklepleck-Weesner Funeral Home, Brownstown, with Gary Morning officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Brownstown. Friends may call at the funeral home from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. today, Tuesday, Sept. 9, and Wednesday from 9 a.m. until time of the service. Memorials may be made to Home Health Care of Memorial Hospital, Brownstown Christian Church, or the Alzheimer’s Association. - Jackson County Banner – September 9, 1997 - submitted by Francie Ede
Lois Rochner, 52, of Bartow, Fla., and formerly of Brownstown, died Friday morning, June 9, at the Lakeland General Hospital in Lakeland, Fla. She was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church and had lived in Florida for three and one-half years. She was born Nov. 26, 1925, in Brownstown, to the former Alga Goodpaster and the late Orval Reynolds. On Feb. 6, 1943, she was married in Brownstown to George Rochner, who survives. In addition to her mother and husband, other survivors include a son, Robert Rochner, of Bartow, Fla.; two daughters, Mrs. Robert (Brenda Sue) Kirts, of Mulberry, Fla., and Mrs. William (Junieta Jean) Skaggs, of Brownstown; four brothers, Richard, Glenn, Raymond, and Daymond Reynolds, all of Brownstown; a sister, Mrs. Dan (Doris) Bowman, of Brownstown; and six grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted on Sunday afternoon, June 11, from the Zabel Funeral Home, Brownstown, with the Rev. Elvin Gray officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery, Brownstown. - Brownstown Banner – June 14, 1978 - submitted by Francie Ede
Louis J. Rochner, age 73 years, died at his home in Brownstown Friday morning at 1 o’clock. Death was due to a stroke he suffered three days before. Funeral services were conducted at the Christian Church Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock with the Rev. William Richmond, pastor, in charge. Burial in Fairview Cemetery. Mr. Rochner was the son of James and Mary Rochner and was born in Harrison County, Indiana, February 24, 1867, and moved to Jackson County with his parents when a boy. In 1890, he was married in Brownstown to Miss Rosa Krantz, who died suddenly July 6, 1939. Mr. Rochner was one of Jackson County’s well-known carpenters in which occupation he had been engaged about thirty-five years. On account of failing health he retired ten years ago, most of the time he was confined to his home. He leaves many friends to mourn his death. He was a member of the Christian church and the Modern Woodmen Lodge. He is survived by two sons and two daughters, Ralph and William Rochner, Mrs. Anna Green and Mrs. Clara Young, all of Brownstown; two brothers, August Rochner, of Corydon; George Rochner, of Palmyra; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. - Brownstown Banner – September 25, 1940 - submitted by Francie Ede
Ralph “Junior” Rochner, 47, Brownstown, died Friday afternoon, Oct. 20, at his home. Death was attributed to a heart attack. Born in Brownstown, he was the son of the late Ralph John and Beatrice Dobbins Rochner. On May 17, 1945, he married the former Roberta Gray in Indianapolis, and she survives. He was assistant postmaster in Brownstown and formerly had served as postmaster of the Ewing Post Office. He had spent 23 years with the U.S. Postal Service. A member of the Brownstown Christian Church, he was also treasurer of the Brownstown Lions Club, a member of the board of trustees of the Knights of Pythias, past chancellor and secretary of the Knights of Pythias, and a member of Camp Jackson Post 112, American Legion. He was a veteran of World War II. Other survivors are one son; Mark, at home; 2 daughters; Mrs. Marsha McKinney, Aurora, Ill.; Mrs. Rebecca Evans, Medora; 2 brothers; George, Brownstown; Floyd, Jeffersontown, Ky. and one grandchild. Services were held Sunday afternoon, Oct. 22, from the Brownstown Christian Church, with the Rev. Evan Bolejack, minister, officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery. The Winklepleck-Weesner Funeral Home handled arrangements. Memorials were designated for the church building fund and Lions Club leader-dog program. - Brownstown Banner – October 25, 1972 - submitted by Francie Ede
“Natural Causes” Is Verdict Given in Death of Ralph Rochner - . Victor L. Burkholder, deputy coroner of Jackson County, has returned a verdict of “death from natural causes” in the death of Ralph John Rochner, of Brownstown, funeral rites for whom were held at 1:30 o’clock Monday afternoon from the Zabel Funeral Home and at 2 o’clock from the Brownstown Christian Church, with the pastor, Gene Dulin, and the Rev. E. E. Pedicord, retired Christian minister, in charge. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery. Mr. Rochner was found dead in an automobile at the home of William Marcott about 6 o’clock Saturday morning. Deputy Coroner Burkholder fixed the time of death at approximately 11 o’clock the night before. Mr. Rochner was born in Brownstown May 23, 1900, a son of the late Louis J. and Rosa Catherine Krantz Rochner. In March of 1923 he was married to Beatrice Dobbins, who survives, as do three sons, George Louis Rochner and Ralph J. Rochner, of Brownstown and Floyd Rochner, of Louisville. Also surviving are a brother, William E. Rochner, of Brownstown and two sisters, Mrs. William Green and Mrs. Ezra Young, of Brownstown. Mr. Rochner, who was bartender by occupation, was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church, a veteran of World War II and a member of the Father’s Auxiliary to the V. F. W. - Brownstown Banner – October 22, 1952- submitted by Francie Ede
Mrs. Louis Rochner Dies Suddenly at Home in Brownstown - . Stricken while talking to members of her family, Mrs. Rose Catherine Rochner, age 68 years, wife of Louis Rochner, expired suddenly Thursday evening at her home in Brownstown. She had just finished eating supper and was sitting on the porch with members of the family when she suffered a heart attack and passed away before a physician could be summoned. Short services were held at the home Sunday afternoon at 12:30 o’clock followed by services at the Christian Church at 1 o’clock in charge of the pastor, the Rev. William Richmond. Burial in Fairview Cemetery. Mrs. Rochner, the daughter of John and Martha Samples Krantz was born in Brownstown Township May 18, 1871, and spent her entire life in Jackson County. She was married in Brownstown, September 4, 1890, to Louis John Rochner. To their union were born four children. Deceased was a member of the Christian Church and the Royal Neighbors Lodge. She was a most estimable woman and had a host of friends. She is survived by her husband, two sons, Ralph and William Rochner; two daughters, Mrs. Anna Green and Mrs. Clara Young, all of Brownstown; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. - Brownstown Banner – July 12, 1939 - submitted by Francie Ede
William E. Rochner, 87, Brownstown, died at 10:05 a.m. Wednesday, March 8, at his home. He had been ill since December. He was a member of the Brownstown Christian Church, where he had served as deacon; Brownstown Exchange Club, Brownstown Senior Citizens, Modern Woodmen of America, Brownstown American Legion, Brownstown Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the County Seat Fish and Game Club. He served on Brownstown Town Board for 12 years. He spent his early years in a log home on a Brownstown Township farm. His family moved to the Ewing area where he grew up, attending Brownstown High School. He played basketball on the 1931 team, which made it to the “Sweet 16” at Butler Fieldhouse. In 1944, he enlisted in the Navy, training at Great Lakes Naval Station and Norfolk, Va. before being assigned as cook for a destroyer escort, the DE449 Hannah. He had owned and operated two gas stations in Brownstown and had been custodian of Brownstown High School and had been the sexton at Fairview Cemetery, Brownstown, for many years. After retirement, he operated Bill and Lill’s Antiques throughout southern Indiana. He was born Sunday, March 10, 1912 in Jackson County to the late Louis and Rosa Kate Rochner. He was the youngest of eight children. On Aug. 12, 1933 he married the former Lillian Marie Collingsworth, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 8, 1997. Survivors include two daughters, Shirley Brewer of Vallonia and Mrs. Roger (Joella) Nierman of Brownstown; two sons, Charles Rochner of Atlanta, Ga., and Harry Rochner of Brownstown; 11 grandchildren, Denise Schnell, Jeff Brewer, Deb Stout, Angela Johnston, Dawn Rochner, Brian Nierman, Jason Nierman, Jill Nierman, Matt Rochner, Heidi Rochner, and Lindsi Jo Rochner, and eight great-grandchildren, Christy Schnell, Heather Schnell, Allison Schnell, Daniel Robert Stout, April Johnston, Rachel Johnston, Wyatt Johnston, and Shelby Nierman. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Anne M. Green and Clara B. Young, and five brothers, Frank Rochner, Charles J. Rochner, Lawrence Rochner, Ralph J. Rochner, and Clarence Rochner. Funeral services were conducted Saturday, March 11, at the Brownstown Christian Church with Doug Nuss and Chris Criminger officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery, Brownstown. Memorials may be made to Brownstown Christian Church, Alzheimer’s Association, or the donor’s choice. Winklepleck-Weesner Funeral Home, Brownstown was in charge of arrangements. - Jackson County Banner – March 14, 2000 - submitted by Francie Ede
WILSON
Florence Marie Wilson, 62, Brownstown, died at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, 2003, at Schneck Medical Center, Seymour. Mrs. Wilson worked at Hamers Variety Store and Lorenes Fashion Store, both of Brownstown, Stahl Shoe Store, Seymour, and Lutheran Community Home, Seymour, before retiring in January 2003. She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers. Born March 30, 1941, at Seymour, she was a daughter of Oren John Wischmeier and Selma Minnie Darlage Wischmeier. She married Jack C. Wilson Feb. 12, 1960, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, and he survives. She also is survived by a daughter, Brenda (John) Tormoehlen, Seymour; her father, Oren Wischmeier, Brownstown; a grandson, Brandon Tormoehlen, Seymour; three granddaughters, Brooke Tormoehlen, Lexington, Ky., and Jaclyn and White Tormoehlen, both of Seymour; three brothers, Robert (Violet) Wischmeier and Wayne (Rita) Wischmeier, both of Brownstown, and Randall (Sandy) Wischmeier, Scottsburg; a sister, Flora (Mike) Wheeler, Westport; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her mother, Selma M. Wischmeier; and a sister, Ruth Ellen Wischmeier. The Rev. Craig Mulbach will conduct funeral services at 2 p.m. Tuesday at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sauers, with burial at the church cemetery. Friends may call from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at Myers Funeral Service, Burkholder Chapel, Seymour, and from 1 p.m. until time of service Tuesday at the church. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Lutheran Hour or to her church. - Seymour Daily Tribune, September 15, 2003 - submitted by James D. VanDerMark
YOUNG
Mrs. Ezra (Clara) Young, 76, Brownstown, died Tuesday morning, March 12, at her Crystal River, Fla., residence. She had been in poor health for several years. Born Dec. 28, 1897, in Brownstown, she was the daughter of the late Louis and Rosa Krantz Rochner. She married Ezra Young in 1923 at Clinton, Ill., and he survives. A member of the Brownstown Christian Church, she had taught school for several years, graduating from Danville Normal Teaching College. Survivors are a son: Robert Young, Crystal River, Fla.; a brother; William E. Rochner, Brownstown; 3 grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. A son, 5 brothers, and a sister preceded her in death. Services were held Saturday afternoon, March 16, from the Zabel Funeral Home with the Rev. Evan Bolejack officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery. – Brownstown Banner – March 20, 1974 - submitted by Francie Ede
Ezra “Spike” W. Young, 92, Hoosier Christian Village, Brownstown, died at 7:55 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 22, at the nursing home. He was born June 28, 1900 at Salem, Ill. He married the former Clara Belle Rochner on June 7, 1923 at Salem, Ill., and she preceded him in death on Mar. 12, 1974. He was a carpenter and a member of the Illinois National Guard. Survivors include one son, Robert “Dock” Young, Gloucester, Va.; three grandchildren, Jimmy, Donnie and Mark Young, and one brother-in-law, William Rochner, Brownstown. Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. today, Thursday, Dec. 24, at the Zabel Funeral Home, Brownstown, with the Rev. Gary Morning officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home today from 9 a.m. until time of the service. Memorials may be made to Hoosier Christian Village, Brownstown. - Jackson County Banner – December 24, 1992 - submitted by Francie Ede