Obituary for Donald A. Roberts

DONALD A. ROBERTS

Donald A. Roberts, age 83, of Liberty, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on June 8, 2023, surrounded by family. Donald was born at home in Liberty on December 1, 1939, the son of the late Elmer Donald and Ruth Pauline Hamilton Roberts. 

Donald was united in marriage to the love of his life, Wilma Sue Smith Roberts, at the Liberty Church of Christ on December 24, 1956. They met at the age of 14 and enjoyed 61 years of marriage prior to her death in 2018.  

Donald drove a truck for Wayne Works for several years. After retiring, he ministered at Whitewater Commons Nursing Home in Liberty where he enjoyed preaching, playing his guitar and banjo and spending time with the residents.

His passion resided in his ministry and his family. He served as the Pastor of the Laurel Community Baptist Church for more than 40 years as well as a Deacon at the Bible Baptist Church in Liberty for many years thereafter. Donald treasured the time spent with his family, especially his grand-children, and many friends throughout the community.

Donald will be greatly missed by his children, Debbie Mauller, Sandy (Maxie Lee) Colyer, Donna (Larry) Ailes, Darrell (Jane) Roberts and Robert (Christina) Durham; 14 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, eight great-great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, a brother-in-law, Charles Mauer Jr. and his close K9 companions, Sasha and Ava. 

Besides his parents and wife, he was welcomed into Heaven by a sister, Amelia “Sally” Roberts; a son-in-law like a son, David Mauller; a sister, Tonya Mauer; and a grandaughter, Jennifer Colyer Rush.

Visitation for Donald will be held on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, from 11 am until 1 pm at Liberty Baptist Church in Liberty. The funeral service will begin at 1 pm at the church. A graveside service will immediately follow in Westpoint Cemetery.  

Obituary for Steven Gene Burch

STEVEN GENE BURCH

Loving husband, father, and Paw Paw Steven Gene Burch went to his eternal home on June 7, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born December 17, 1960, to Ronald and Wanda Burch. Those surviving who will cherish Steve’s memory are his beloved wife of 40 years, Patricia (Denham) Burch; his loving children, Stevie Cheyenne (Seth) Simonson of Batesville, Jacob “Jake” Burch of Brookville, and three wonderful grandchildren Henry Abner, Matilda Grove, and Shepherd Stone Simonson; loving mother, Wanda Burch and sister, Tonya (Don) Huber. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and many lifelong friends. 

Steve was a man with a strong work ethic who provided for his family and his interests by working at Pepsi Cola for many years. He practiced his masonic brotherhood through the Laurel Masonic Lodge #447 and became an honorary member of the Metamora Masonic Lodge. He acquired his Pilot License in 1990, so if the weather was clear, you could find him in the sky, flying his airplane with his wife, Pat, and dog, Frankie. He was an active member at the Nulltown Wingnuts Airfield, Whitewater Valley RC Club and Eastern Indiana 4-wheeler Club. He instilled his love of flight into Laurel’s community youth by starting the Young Astronauts Club in the Laurel Elementary and Middle School. He had many hobbies from spending time hiking on nature trails, camping, hunting out west, to riding his motorcycle. He loved to spend time with his grandchildren and often would be seen slipping them candy at any given time. 

Those who knew Steve saw he was someone that could always be counted on. He never hesitated to go out of his way and lend a helping hand. Steve’s caring demeanor and quick-witted, dry humor would bring smiles and laughter as it never went unnoticed. It is an understatement to say he will be greatly missed by many. 

Friends may visit the family on Monday, June 12, 2023, from 11 a.m., until 1 p.m., with the service to follow at Cook Rosenberger Funeral home, 929 Main Street Brookville, Indiana. A Masonic service will begin at 1 p.m., followed by the funeral service. Burial will conclude services at New Fairfield Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be directed to Nulltown Wing Nuts Airfield. To sign the online guestbook or to leave a personal condolence, please visit www.cookrosenberger.com. The staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home is honored to care for the family of Steve Burch. 

Obituary for Edward Purkey

EDWARD PURKEY

Edward Purkey, 89, of Camino, California, died peacefully, January 26, 2023, surrounded by family. He was born in Hamilton, Ohio on April 16, 1933, to James Purkey and Alice King (Purkey). Edward married Dorothy Kunkel on October 17, 1953, at St. Peters Catholic Church in Brookville. 

Edward was a proud Air Force veteran who served two enlistments before moving to a quieter civilian life. After his service, Edward and his family moved to Southern California where Edward ran a used car sales business. In 1988, their dreams led them north where they would settle in Camino, CA in a home he would lovingly call “The Farm,” In town, Edward and Dorothy opened a video rental store, which they maintained through their retirement in 1994. There, you would often find him kicked back in his favorite chair reading the daily newspaper. Edward loved music, and always had an ear for it. He had the ability to hear a song and then play it out on an instrument. He loved classic country music and could often be found playing his harmonica or trumpet. Perhaps, more than anything, Edward loved spending time with his family, particularly on his farm. He loved his grandchildren, but he really had a soft spot for his great-grandchildren. Being able to watch another generation brought up on the farm gave him the greatest joy.

Edward was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great–grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be missed dearly by all. He is survived by two children: Melinda Purkey (George) and David Purkey; four grandchildren: Matthew George, Rebecca Dolcini (George), Nicole Gocke (Purkey) and Christopher Purkey; eight great-grandchildren; Abbigayle George, Olivia Dolcini, Charlotte Dolcini, Emma Gocke, Easton Gocke, Colt Gocke, Presley Purkey, and Caden Purkey; and several nieces and nephews. Edward was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, his parents, sisters Polly Crockford (Purkey) and Wilma Jane Reece (Purkey), and brother Charles Purkey.

A graveside burial service will be conducted at 11 a.m., on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at St. Peters Catholic Church with Father Vince Lampert officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Brookville American Legion, Post #77.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. Peters Catholic Church or to the St. Peters Cemetery Fund.

For more information, send condolences, or sign the online guest book please go to, www.cookrosenberger.com. The Staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home is honored to serve Edward’s Family.

Obituary for Bonnie Faye (Brandenburg) Denham

BONNIE FAYE (BRANDENBURG) DENHAM

Bonnie Faye (Brandenburg) Denham, 73, of Brookville, was born on October 3, 1949, in Clay County, Kentucky and died on Thursday, June 1, 2023. 

She was the daughter of the late Rawlie Brandenburg and Zella (Hubbard) Deaton. Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband Larry G Denham and a sister Brenda (Brandenburg) Whitaker. She is survived by her sister Barbara (Brandenburg) Foreman and brother Barry Brandenburg; three children: Lisa (Clyde) Gordon of Owenton Kentucky, Buddy Denham of Brookville, and Angela (Kenneth) Cox of Laurel; 12 grandchildren: Kristi Voelker, Andrew, (Emily) Voelker, Kati (Michael) Callahan, Ashley (Ryan) York, Woody (Brandy) Kater, Natasha Cox, Hannah Kater, Derick Denham, Damon Cox, Kenneth (Megan) Cox II, David Denham and Shayna Cox; twenty-two great-grandchildren: Keegan, Cooper, Colton, Bryson, Bailey, Brayton, Trey, Paisley, Ryder, Ryleigh, Otto, Brianna, Brandon, Jaden, Jacob, Zayden, Ziah, Nelly, Hudson, Edith, Eli, Jaxson.

Bonnie married Larry on October 21, 1967, in Metamora. Together they had three beautiful children. Bonnie was a homemaker all her life. She was proficient in making crocheted blankets, doll clothes, baby clothes, hats, scarves and anything she could think of. One year, she crocheted an American Flag blanket that was auctioned off at the Metamora Fire Department.

Bonnie enjoyed vacationing in the mountains of Tennessee and riding the Harley with the love of her life and their friends. Although she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren she enjoyed her quiet time watching true crime on Netflix.

Arrangements to celebrate Bonnie’s life and last ride will be determined at a later date. Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements. 

For more information, send condolences or sign the online guest book please go to www.cookrosenberger.com. The Staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home is honored to serve Bonnie’s Family.

Obituary for John C. McCracken

JOHN C. MCCRACKEN

John C. McCracken age 70, of Brookville, died Friday, June 2, 2023, following injuries sustained in an automobile accident on May 4, 2023.    

Born July 24, 1952, he was the son of the late Clyde O. and Joanne M. (Lee) McCracken. John was a graduate of the former Brookville High School, and a United States Navy Veteran of the Vietnam Conflict. John owned and operated John’s Barber Shop in Brookville for more than 35 years.

He was a lifelong member of the Brookville United Methodist Church, the Brookville Kiwanis Club, where he had served as Treasurer for many years, and had been active with the Bernard Hurst Post #77 of the American Legion in Brookville. In his leisure time, he enjoyed sports and was a supporter of Franklin County High School athletics.

Survivors include a sister, Jane Fox of Plainfield, and a brother, Jerry McCracken of Covington, Kentucky; a nephew, Paul Fox of Ridgewood, New Jersey; as well as many friends and loyal customers of his Barber Shop.  

John was preceded in death by his mother Joanne M. McCracken who died April 16, 2007, and his father, Clyde O. McCracken who died March 5, 2009.

Family and friends may visit from 10 a.m. until 12 Noon on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at the Brookville United Methodist Church, 150 East 8TH Street, Brookville.

Rev. Steve Rundel, pastor of the Brookville United Methodist Church, will officiate the Funeral Services at 12 Noon, Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at the Brookville United Methodist Church. Burial with full military graveside honors by the Bernard Hurst Post #77 of the American Legion, will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Brookville.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Brookville United Methodist Church or the Bernard Hurst Post #77 of the American Legion.  The staff of Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home is honored to once again serve the McCracken family, to sign the online guest book or send personal condolences to the family please visit www.phillipsandmeyers.com.

Obituary for Elizabeth A. “Betty” Burk

ELIZABETH A. “BETTY” BURK

Elizabeth A. ‘Betty’ Burk, age 82, of Brookville, died Saturday, June 3, 2023, at her residence in Brookville following a brief illness.    

Born January 8, 1941, in Cincinnati, Ohio she was the only child of the late Eugene and Marcella (Erhardt) Rugg. On December 19, 1959, she was united in marriage to John Burk, and he survives.

Betty had worked at the former Fernald Materials Production Center as a Secretary for many years. In her leisure, she cherished time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, watching birds, and taking care of her flowers. She was proud to live on a Hoosier Homestead Farm, which has been in the family for more than 100 Years.

Besides John, her loving husband of more than 63 years, survivors include two sons, Christopher (Mary) Burk of Brookville, and Daniel Burk of Cincinnati; two grandchildren, Derek Burk and Dustin (Bridget) Burk; two great-grandchildren, Elliott Burk and Lydia Burk.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no public services.  

Memorial contributions may be directed to Hospice of Margaret Mary.  The staff of Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home is honored to serve the Burk family, to sign the online guest book or send personal condolences to the family please visit www.phillipsandmeyers.com.

Obituary for Neal David Pelsor

NEAL DAVID PELSOR

Neal David Pelsor, age 51, of Brookville, died unexpectedly Monday, June 5, 2023, at his residence in Brookville.    

Born November 22, 1971, in Batesville, he was the son of David L. and Rebecca (Reister) Pelsor. 

He had attended Indiana University Bloomington, and had worked as a Network Engineer. In his leisure time, he enjoyed following IU Basketball, and the Cincinnati Bengals. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion, Bernard Hurst Post #77 of Brookville, as well as the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary.

Survivors include his parents, David and Becky Pelsor of Brookville, a sister, Lisa Pelsor of Muncie, as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Louis and Martha Pelsor and Ivan and Mabel Reister.

Family and friends may visit from 9 until 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 8, 2023, at Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home, 1025 Franklin Ave., Brookville.

Rev. Vincent Lampert will officiate the Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, June 8, 2023, 11 a.m. at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 145 E. St. Michaels Blvd., Brookville. Burial will follow in St. Michael Catholic Cemetery in Brookville.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Blooming Grove Volunteer Fire Department. The staff of Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home is honored to serve the Pelsor family, to sign the online guest book or send personal condolences to the family please visit www.phillipsandmeyers.com.

Obituary for Bertha Helen Watts Steele

BERTHA HELEN WATTS STEELE

Bertha Helen Watts Steele, 84, passed away Friday, June 2, 2023, at her home on Steele Drive in Laurel.

She was born March 27, 1939, in Fall River, Massachusetts, the daughter of Joseph A. Watts Sr. and Olila Menard Watts.

A native of Laurel, Bertha was a homemaker, bookkeeper for B. & J. Construction, and superintendent of the Laurel Nazarene Church. She loved gardening, her flowers, and most of all spending time with her family.

On May 9, 1956, she was married in Laurel to Benjamin Lee Steele Sr. Mr. Steele passed away September 25, 2016.

Survivors include two sons, Benjamin (Sharon) Steele Jr. and Jason (Ashley) Steele; a daughter, Denise (Randy) Bare; two brothers, James (Josephine) Watts and George (Brenda) Watts; two sisters, Rosemary Lupachini and Suzanne Thomas; nine grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren.

Other than her husband of 60 years, Benjamin Lee Steele Sr., she was preceded in death by three brothers, Joseph Jr. “Tootsie,” Thomas, and Edward Watts; and three sisters, Jacqueline Cormier, Irene Dwiggins, and Dorothy Arruda.

Funeral services will be conducted by Pastor Duane Harrison at 3 p.m. Thursday, June 8, 2023, at the Reach Community Church (formerly Laurel Nazarene Church) where friends may call from noon until the time of the service. Burial will be in Laurel North Cemetery. Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Bertha to the Reach Community Church.

Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.

Obituary for Shirley Ann Emery

SHIRLEY ANN EMERY

Shirley Ann Emery, 75, of Connersville, went home to be with her Lord Saturday afternoon, June 3, 2023, at Reid Health, Richmond, after becoming ill earlier in the week.

She was born February 12, 1948, in Batesville, one of seven children of Percil and Florence Hilbert Prifogle, and she lived most of her life in the Brookville area. In her 40s, she obtained her Bachelor of Social Science from Mount St. Joseph College in Cincinnati.

For more than 20 years until her retirement, Shirley was employed at Hill-Rom Industries in Batesville where she became a supervisor.

She was a member of the Liberty Church of Christ. In her leisure, she enjoyed working on crafts. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family.

Active in the community, Shirley donated her time at the Fayette Regional Health Hospice Care.

Survivors include a daughter, Carmen (Russell) Bothast of Liberty; two grandsons, Tyler Bothast and Cody (Linsey) Bothast, both of Liberty; two great grandchildren, Alexis and Grayson Bothast; two brothers, Billy (Linda) Prifogle of Brookville, and Brian Prifogle of Connersville; three sisters, Ruth (John) Estridge of Brookville, Barbara Taylor and Brenda Prifogle, both of Connersville; and a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Gary Prifogle.

Upon her request, a private Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family. Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.

Obituary for Milton Edward Osman

MILTON EDWARD OSMAN

Milton Edward Osman, 77, of West Harrison, died on Friday, June 2, 2023, at Mercy West Hospital in Cincinnati.

Milton was born in West Union, Ohio, on August 13, 1945, to Milton and Marilyn Stout Osman. He married Barbara Brinkman on June 9, 1965, in Lawrenceburg and spent more than 57 years together before he died. During his life he was employed as a carpenter. Milton enjoyed gardening, mowing the grass, fishing, hunting, and all outdoor activities. He loved spending time with his family and his best friend named Spot.

In addition to his wife Barbara, Milton is survived by one son: Edward Osman and his wife Brenda of Sunman; one granddaughter: Katelynn Osman; one brother: Terry Osman (Sue) of Lebanon, Ohio; a sister- in – law: Becky Osman of Pinole, CA; a brother-in-law: Erv (Laina) Brinkman in CA; and Milton’s best friend, Spot the dog. Milton was preceded in death by his parents; a brother: Kevin Osman; and a sister: Sarah Case Gable.

Honoring Milton’s wishes, cremation was chosen. A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 10, 2023, at 1 p.m. at Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home ~ 107 Vine Street ~ Sunman, with Father Vince Lampert officiating. A Memorial Visitation will be at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place at St. Peters Cemetery at a later time.

To send condolences or to sign the online guest book please go to www.cookrosenberger.com.  The Staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home is honored to serve Milton’s Family.