The Press-Dispatch
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The Press-Dispatch Wednesday, December 9, 2020 A-7 OBITUARIES Submit obituaries: Call: 812-354-8500 Email: obits@pressdispatch.net or bring in a hard copy: 820 E. Poplar Street, Petersburg Deadline: 5 p.m. on Monday Obituary deadline Every Monday at 5 p.m. ALLAN T. BIRK Allan T. Birk, 68, of Velpen, passed away at 3:48 p.m. on Tuesday, December 1, 2020, at home. She was born in Hunting- burg on September 5, 1952, to Woodrow and Phoebe ( Wil- lis) Birk. He married Sharon Poselwait on September 29, 1973, at the Petersburg Gos- pel Center. He retired from Ditto Sales in Jasper, where he had worked for several years. He was a member of the Gener- al Baptist Church in Velpen, where he had been a deacon for seven years. He loved fish- ing, hunting, tinkering on lawnmowers, camping, and spending time with family and friends. Surviving are his wife, Sha- ron Birk, of Velpen; two chil- dren, Tina (Marvin) Horn, of Winslow, and Justin Birk, of Velpen; three grandchil- dren, Gary Fickas, Jr., Jessica Fickas and Jolene Fickas; two great-grandchildren, Avah Rose Birk and Isabella Ray Birk; and one brother, David (Peggy) Birk, of Birdseye. Preceding him in death besides his parents are one brother, Roger Birk; and one sister, Sophie Price. Graveside services will be at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the wishes of the family. Online condolenc- es may be made at www.be- cherkluesner.com. MARIAN A. BURCH Marian A. Burch, 80, for- merly of Oakland City, entered rest on Monday, Nov. 30, 2020, at Golden Living Center in Pe- tersburg. She was born on Sept. 28, 1940, in Tennessee, to Robert and Daisey Carter Burns. She was a member of Bless- ed Sacrament Catholic Church and retired from Gibson Coun- ty Ambulance services as an EMT after several years of service. She is survived by a daugh- ter, Rachel Burch, of Livonia, Ind; a son, Daniel Burch, of Dayton, Ohio; grandchildren, Leah Pakish and Dallas Reed; great-grandchild, Mia Reed; and sister, Johnita Powers, of Princeton. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her hus- band, Tom Burch. A Mass of Christian burial was at 9 a.m. on Saturday Dec. 5, 2020, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, with Fr. Frank Renner as Celebrant. Burial will follow in Montgom- ery Cemetery. Lamb-Basham Memorial Chapel is honored to assist Marian's family. Family and friends may send messages of comfort to www.lambbash- am.com. MAE K ATHRYN PHILLIPS Mae Kathryn Phillips, 86, of Petersburg, entered rest on Dec. 5, 2020, at Golden Living Center in Petersburg. She was born on Feb. 16, 1934, in Pike County. She is survived by her daughter, Debbie (Mark) Hopf, of Petersburg; grand- children, Katie Jo (Noland) Renck, of Princeton, Heather (BJ) Sorgius, of Petersburg, Matthew (Tara) Phillips, of Princeton, Joshua Hopf, of Petersburg, and Amber (Na- than) Jannasch, of Lafayette; great-grandchildren, Quinton, Kendric, Lakin and Channing Sorgius, Kiera and Bryleigh Phillips, Lila Mae and Elnora Jean Jannasch, and Noah and Stella Renck; and her sister, Linda Carey, of Petersburg. She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Rick Phillips, on Nov. 17, 2016; and her husband, Millard "Buster" Phillips, on Dec. 13, 2016. Private graveside ser- vices will take place at a lat- er date. Lamb-Basham Memo- rial Chapel is honored to as- sist Mae's family. Family and friends may send messages of comfort to www.lambbasham. com. DONALD OWEN FLENER Donald Owen Flener, 63, a former resident of Winslow, passed away in Louisville, Ky., on November 6, 2020, after a long bout of cancer. He was born in Louisville, Ky., to Clifton Owen Flener and Betty (Foutch) Flener Selby on September 18, 1957. He graduated from Pike Central High School in 1975. He was a woodworker and cab- inet maker. He loved to deer hunt and was an avid bass fish- erman. As a hobby, he helped his brother, Ron, make fish- ing lures. He is survived by a son, William S. (Tearisha) Flen- er, of Winslow; two grandchil- dren, Noah and Hazel Grace, of Winslow; a brother, Ron W. (Annette) Flener, of Flor- ida; a sister, Tasha Flener, of Bardstown, Ky.; an aunt, Billie Grubb, of Winslow; stepfather, Arthur Selby, of Winslow; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his broth- ers, Clifton O. Flener, Jr., of Louisville, and Clifton O. Flen- er, Jr., who died as an infant. A memorial service will be at a later date. JUDITH ANN TRUE Judith Ann True, 76, of Ha- zleton, passed away on Thurs- day, December 3, 2020, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Vincennes. She was born to John and Ollie Waple in Evansville on October 25, 1944, and was a graduate of Memorial High School. She was the former editor of the White River News and al- so wrote a "Personals" column for the The Press-Dispatch. She was previously the president of the Hazleton Lions Club, pres- ident of the Hazleton Commu- nity Center, a Girl Scout lead- er and was active in the White River-Hazleton Ball League by running the concession stand for many years. Her pride and joy were her children and grandchildren. She loved to cook, bake, cro- chet and talk on the phone. She loved animals, especial- ly her Irish Setters, that she raised and bred for more than 25 years. She also enjoyed tak- ing care of the cattle on the farm. She is survived by her son, John (Melissa) True, of Bruceville; daughter Maggie (Michael) Wilson, of Lyons; three grandchildren, Isaac, Caleb and Ella True; and sev- eral nieces and nephews, in- cluding a very special niece she considered a daughter, Dessi Waple. Preceding her in death were her parents; brother, Joseph Waple; and her husband of 42 years, David "Mike" True. Due to COVID-19 precau- tions, there will be no visita- tion or services at this time. Colvin Funeral Home has been entrusted with the ar- rangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with funeral and med- ical expenses. Contributions can be mailed to Maggie Wil- son, PO Box 375, Lyons, IN 47443. Judy's family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff at Golden Living Center in Petersburg for their years of love, care and com- passion. You may leave a message of sympathy or light a memorial candle at www.colvinfuneral- home.com. JOHN WILLIAM DUNN John William Dunn, 82, passed away on December 2, 2020, at the Washington Nurs- ing Center. He was born on July 6, 1938, in Vincennes, the son of Ralph P. and Estelle D. (Phipps) Dunn. He enjoyed arts and crafts while living at the Washing- ton Nursing Center. His fa- vorite pastimes were watch- ing old westerns, as well as fishing and hunting shows on television. Survivors include his broth- er, Paul R. Dunn, of Washing- ton; sisters, Dyanne F. Chest- nut and Margaret E. (David) Brummett, all of Washington; four nieces; and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents; two broth- ers, James E. and Kenneth D. Dunn; and one nephew. A private graveside service will be at Wheatland Ceme- tery at a later date. Online memories may be shared with John's family and friends at www.goodwin- sieversfh.com. Goodwin-Siev- ers Funeral Home is honored to assist the Dunn family with arrangements. MICHAEL ALAN ECK Michael Alan Eck, 61, of Pe- tersburg, passed away on De- cember 6, 2020. He was born July 11, 1959, in Petersburg, to Austin and Car- ma (Chew) Eck. He lived his life in Peters- burg, where he was very loved by friends and family. He en- joyed being active in the com- munity and engaged in conver- sation with anyone who was willing. He was a devout pa- rishioner at the Gospel Center Church, Petersburg. He spent his days cheering on his fami- ly at sporting events and com- petitions, and he was known to end his day by reading his Bible and doing crossword puzzles. He attended Petersburg El- ementary and graduated from Pike Central High School in 1978. While in high school, he excelled in football and base- ball, and was offered several scholarships. He was the first person to hit a homerun out of the newly-built Pike Cen- tral Chargers field. He loved basketball, but did not play because he refused to cut his hair. He was a man fond of love and was married twice, first to Starla Wiseman, who is de- ceased, and then to Christina Eck. He had enormous love for his children and grandchil- dren, and would share with everyone how proud he was of each one. He was known to be the second hardest worker, only under his father, Austin Eck. Frequently, he would be an hour or more early to every event, typically the first per- son there. He was a fighter and over- came many personal and health battles before God called him home. He was blessed with a large number of descendants who will miss his wit and regular cheering on. He is survived by his three sons, Sean (Kimber- ly) Eck, Shaine (Ariel) Eck and Eli Eck; two daughters, Lib- by (Kale) Shelton (Bell) and Shayna Eck; nine grandchil- dren, Zane Pride (14), Tanner Shelton (13), Kole Eck (8), Avery Eck (8), Presleigh Bell (5), Caleb Eck (4), Blakely Eck (3), Zeppelin Benjamin (3) and Kade Shelton (3); brother, Lar- ry Eck ( Julie Weeks); cousin, Jerry Bob Catt; and nieces and nephews, Krista (Collins) Sto- rey, Trent Eck, Troy Eck, Bri- an Collins, Michele (Dale) Car- dinal (Collins) and Tracy Eck. He was preceded in death by his parents, Austin and Car- ma (Chew) Eck; brother, Da- vid Eck; sister, Karen Collins (Eck); grandparents, Joe and Myrtice (Chameness) Chew; aunt and uncle, Betty (Chew) Catt and Bob Catt; and uncle, Clifford Chew. Preceding a service, a view- ing will be from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Wednesday, December 9, 2020, at The Gospel Center, Illinois Street, Petersburg. Those who wish to follow, buri- al will be at Walnut Hills Ceme- tery. Due to COVID-19, masks and social distancing are re- quired. Memorial Contributions can be made to PAWS (Pike Ani- mal Welfare Shelter) and The Gospel Center Church. e Family of Bill Slaven e Family of Billy Slaven want to give a very sincere, heartfelt thank you to friends, family, and neighbors for all the acts of kind- ness, comfort and support shown by visits, cards, food and gifts. Words cannot express how much we appreciated everything you did. A special thank you to Pastors Denny Wis- caver, of Jesus Christ Our Firm Foundation, Joe Henson and Eddie Willis, from Glezen Revival Center, for the comforting words at the graveside service, and to all those who came to the cemetery. Also to all those who came to the house the evening Billy passed away, your presence meant so very much. ank you also to the EMTs and first re- sponders For their care and quick response. ank you to Greg Hawkins who orches- trated a wonderful graveside service and to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3587 and the Honor Squad, thank you so much. Billy would have been proud for every kindness showed. Jeree and Xavier Rama and Eric, Ramy and Adam Sarah and Jett, Dale and Jaia PEACE of MIND Let our 130 years of experience aid you in your selection of a meaningful memorial. SCHUM MONUMENTS, INC. Dale, Indiana www.SchumMonuments.com 812-937-4921 Local Representative RONALD WOODS 812-789-2009 BET TY LOU CHESSER Betty Lou (Olds) Chesser, 89, of Petersburg, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on December 6, 2020. She was born on January 15, 1931, in Gibson County, to Doris and Marjorie Olds. She married Robert (Bob) Lee Chesser, of Winslow, on July 24, 1948. She was known for her fierce love and affection for her family, her kindness to friends and acquaintances, her exemplary work ethic, and her devotion to God. She worked as a supervisor at Gos- sard's Ladies Apparel factory in Huntingburg and as a dieti- tian at the nursing home now known as Golden Living Cen- ter in Petersburg. For the ma- jority of her adult life, she at- tended Gospel Center in Pe- tersburg, teaching ladies' Bi- ble studies, Sunday school and Vacation Bible Study for de- cades. She loved hosting fam- ily get-togethers, cooking for her grandchildren, and camp- ing with her husband during their retirement. Her infec- tious laugh, warm smile and faithful spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She is survived by one sis- ter, Shirley Ferrell, of Indi- anapolis; five children, Da- vid Chesser, of Hillsboro, Ill., Pamela Jerrell, of Peters- burg, Myra Hack, of Green- wood, Dedra Like, of Rock- port, and Ruthann Hildeb- rand, of Greenwood; as well as her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were her pride and joy. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, who went to be with the Lord in September 2016; her sister, Katherine; and her brother, John. Graveside services will be at 1 p.m. EST on Friday, De- cember 11, 2020, at Pleas- ant Ridge Cemetery. Due to COVID-19, masks and social distancing are required. Har- ris Funeral Home is entrusted with her care. The family would also like to extend their deepest appre- ciation to all the staff at Gold- en Living Center, who gave Betty such thoughtful and at- tentive care during her time there, and especially during these challenging times. MARY J. VIRDEN Mary J. "Jeannie" Virden, 76 of Newburgh, entered rest on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, at her home. She was born on Sept. 21, 1944, in Oakland City, to John Earles and Mabel Dudgeon. She graduated from Vin- cennes University and became an LPN. She owned and oper- ated Around the Clock Care for 15 years. She is survived by her hus- band of 45 years, Michael L. Virden; her daughters, Kan- di Brucken, of Evansville, and Michele Lester, of Rock- port; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sis- ter, Carol Ray, of Vincennes; and her brothers, John (Clau- dia) Earles, of Mayfield, Ky., and Jim (Susie) Earles and George (Brenda) Earles, all of Vincennes. She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Alan Virden, in 2014; a grandson, Jacob Lester; and a brother, James Earls. Private graveside services will take place at Montgomery Cemetery. Lamb-Basham Memorial Chapel is honored to Assist Mary's family. Family and friends may send messages of comfort to www.lambbash- am.com. MICHAEL KEITH ERWIN Michael Keith Erwin, 72, of Buffalo, Iowa, passed away Sunday, December 6, 2020, at the VA Hospital in Iowa City. He was born May 23, 1948, in Gibson County, the son of Owen "Speed" and Marcella (Drury) Erwin. He served in the Army during the Vietnam War. He married Lillie Stowe on April 14, 1990, in Buffalo. He retired from Arch Mirror Company and then worked as a driv- ing instructor for Scott Com- munity College until retiring this year. He served as a Boy Scout leader and achieved Order of the Arrow. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason and a Past Commander of the American Legion Post #115 in Winslow. Known for his giving spirit, he found great joy in helping others. He loved tinkering and repairing items, along with golfing and woodworking. He greatly enjoyed cooking for the many events at The Beach Pub in Buffalo. Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Lil- lie; daughters, Stacey (Ad- am) Blanks, and their chil- dren, Jonathan, Gabe and Dayne, of Macon, Ga., Kristi- na (Randy) Dill, and their chil- dren, Alek, Adam and River, of Winslow, and Jennifer (Greg) Quinones, and their children, Tyler, Logan and Sydney, of Rock Island, Ill.; sister, Cher- yl Lynn Erwin; sister-in-law, Marlene Erwin, and her chil- dren, Tammy, John and Con- nie, all of Winslow; and his best friend, Walt (Marilyn) Bassow, of Muscatine, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, John and Stephen. Private family services will be held, with burial in Rose Hill Cemetery in Buffalo at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, American Cancer Society or the American Legion Post #115 in Winslow. Online con- dolences may be left at www. rungemortuary.com. SUBSCRIBE TODAY! 812-354-8500 We're not afraid to shed some light on the truth.