Tyler Wilson charged with Levels 3 and 5 Felonies in alleged Aggravated Battery at BVFD’s Reverse Raffle

By John Estridge

A 27-year-old Franklin County man was arrested and charged with two felonies and two misdemeanors after allegedly sucker punching a man at the Brookville Voluntary Fire Department’s Reverse Raffle, causing the man to be aircared.

Tyler D. Wilson was charged with Aggravated Battery, as a Level 3 Felony; Battery Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, as a Level 5 Felony; Possession of Marijuana, as a class B misdemeanor; and Possession of Paraphernalia, as a class C misdemeanor.

Matthew Robenstine suffered broken vertebrae and several facial fractures due to the incident.

According to an Affidavit for Probable Cause written by Brookville Police Department Officer Donald Foresee, he was called to the Brookville Firehouse at 11:40 p.m., Saturday, October 1. Several people at the scene told Foresee Wilson sucker punched Robenstine in the face, which caused Robenstine to fall on cement and rendered him unconscious.

After the altercation, Wilson fled the scene. Franklin County Sheriff’s Department deputies located Wilson in an alley off East 10th Street up Ballpark Hill from the firehouse. Upon searching Wilson, the police found a small brown container the deputies said contained marijuana and a smoking device.

On Oct. 10, Foresee spoke with Robenstine at Robenstine’s home. For the first time Foresee saw the extent of Robenstine’s injuries. Foresee said Robenstine’s cheeks were severely bruised and swollen. He had blood red eyes due to ruptured blood vessels, and he wore an eye patch.

Robenstine had trouble speaking because he has numbness in his lips.

According to Robenstine, he suffered three facial fractures, which required brackets to be implanted on both sides of his face. Also, Robenstine has three fractured vertebrae.

Foresee summarized Robenstine’s recollection of the event as: Robenstine was talking to a group of friends when Wilson came up and began calling people in the group names. Robenstine said he tried to defuse the situation and eventually hugged Wilson. The next thing Robenstine knew he heard sounds from a helicopter and recalled someone yelling in his face.

If convicted of a Level 3 Felony, Wilson could receive a sentence of three to 16 years in prison. A Level 5 Felony conviction could result in a sentence of one to six years in prison.

Rush Circuit Court Judge David E. Northam is the special judge in the case. Brookville attorney Judson McMillin is the current defense attorney.

Obituary for Donald (Don) E. Hiatt

DONALD (DON) E. HIATT

Donald [Don] E. Hiatt 92 formerly of Liberty, passed away Wednesday October 12, 2022, at the Village Green in Greenville, Ohio. He was born on September 17, 1930, to the late Chester and Edna Ramey Hiatt in Richmond.

Don graduated in 1949 from Brownsville High School in Brownsville. On October 1, 1950, Don married the love of his life Jeannine Curry at Hanna’s Creek Church in Kitchel. After their marriage, they lived and farmed their land while raising their two children, Randy and Debbie.  Besides farming, Don owned and drove his school bus for Kitchel school in Union County for eight years. Both of his children rode his bus to school every day. 

Don loved singing with his three brothers in the 1960s, when they were younger, they recorded a record during that time. Don sang solos at church and for several weddings and funerals accompanied by his wife, Jeannine. 

In 1989, Don and his wife retired from farming after 41 years and moved to Lakeland, Florida for 18 years. He enjoyed playing golf and cards with their friends and helping his nephew Jerry Lawton in his strawberry fields. 

He enjoyed teaching his grandchildren how to mow yard a certain way (Grandpa’s way). 

They came back home every summer in their motor home to spend time with their family. He and his wife managed Archway Campground in New Paris, Ohio while home. They enjoyed many trips in their motor home over the years. He and Jeannine loved taking their great- grandchildren on trips with them. He loved spending time with his family and friends while home. 

In 2007, he and his wife, returned from Florida to Richmond, to be close to their family. In July of 2021, they moved to Greenville, Ohio, to be closer to their daughter, so she could care for them. On October 1, 2022, they celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary. 

Don was a member of the Edwards Memorial United Methodist Church in Liberty. He was a member of the Liberty Masonic Lodge # 58 for 61 years. He served as Worshipful Master in 1967. Don is preceded in death by his parents, his three brothers, Dale, Bob, and Darrell Hiatt, his daughter- in-law Carolyn Hiatt, sisters-in-law Pat Hiatt and Mary Lawton and brother-in-law Lowell Lawton.

Don will be greatly missed by his beloved wife, Jeannine, and his children Randy and Debbie and special sister-in-law Berneda Hiatt.

Don’s memory will be cherished forever by his six grandchildren, Chad (Abby) Wilson, Nicholas (Becky) Wilson, Nicole (Andrew) Wilson Rose, Melissa (Andy) Hiatt Rodefer, Randi Hiatt James, Donald (Lauren) Hiatt, his 15 great grandchildren, and several special nieces and nephews.

A memorial service for Don will be held on Sunday, October 23, from 1 to 3 pm at Urban Winkler funeral home in Liberty, with Masonic services following visitation and a message from Pastor Paul Wesler.  Music will be furnished by their longtime friend Joan Raper.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Everheart Hospice in Greenville, Ohio (1350 N Broadway, Greenville, Ohio 45331) or Edwards Memorial United Methodist Church, Liberty Indiana.

Obituary for Betty Athelene (Gephart) Harlan

BETTY ATHELENE (GEPHART) HARLAN

Betty Athelene (Gephart) Harlan, 95 of Liberty passed away on Thursday, October 13, 2022. She was born on February 18, 1927, in Preble County, Ohio at home in the Campbells Town area to Lester Gephart and Mildred Johnson Gephart.

On January 10, 1948, she married Wayne C. Harlan at Four Mile Church of the Brethern in Union County. They were able to spend 73 years together before he passed away on November 23, 2021.

Betty went to school in the Campbells Town area until grade 8, she then moved to Kitchel where she graduated in 1940 at the Kitchel School. After graduation she went to work in Richmond. She then stayed home with her children to raise them in Union County.

Betty was in Eastern Star in Brookville, involved with the Ladies Aid at Greenwood Church, a member of the Harmony Club, the Rainbow Girls and the Salem Club.

She enjoyed cooking for her family, friends and neighbors. Many people in the Kitchel area would say if they found any cookies, pies, cake or fresh yeast rolls they would have came from Betty. She was one of the best cooks in the neighborhood.

Betty is survived by her sons, Ted Harlan and Steven Harlan; grandchildren, Matthew, Robert, Kaleb, Daniel and Douglas; and two great grandchildren, Carlitos and Aspen.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 73 years, a daughter, Susan Harlan Franklin; and a son, David Harlan and sisters, Phyllis Gephart and Patricia Kempton.
A graveside service for Wayne and Betty will be held on Saturday, October 29, 2022, at 1:30 pm at College Corner Cemetery with Pastor Paul Ayers officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Union County Public Library; those can be sent to 2 E. Seminary St., Liberty, Indiana 47353.

Urban Winkler Liberty Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the funeral arrangements for Mrs. Betty Harlan.

Obituary for JeAnn Doris Brack

JEANN DORIS BRACK

JeAnn Doris Brack, 79, of Brookville died on Friday, October 14, 2022, at her residence.

JeAnn was born in Batesville, on April 29, 1943, to Alvin and Thelma Troesch Beckman. She attended Brookville High School where she was a Homecoming Queen, and she graduated with the Class of 1961. JeAnn married Robert O. Brack at Klemmes Corner on June 2, 1962, and they enjoyed and shared more than 60 years together. JeAnn was hired on when Save A Lot came to Brookville and worked there until a couple years ago. She was a member of Creekside Church and was a very social person and loved being with people. JeAnn enjoyed gardening and spending time with her family.

In addition to her husband, Robert, JeAnn is survived by a son: Darren ( Jill) Brack of Brookville; a daughter: Amy Chaney of Milroy; a daughter-in-law: Jane Brack of Brookville; grandchildren: Amber (Richard) Feist of Brookville, Alex (Morgan) Brack of Indianapolis; Aaron (Ashley) Brack of Brookville, Amanda Chaney of Milroy, Tyler Chaney of Milroy, and Kendyl Brack of Brookville; great-grandchildren: Jackson, Lily, Violet, Eivin, and Jude Feist and Evelyn Brack. JeAnn was preceded in death by her parents; a son: Rob Brack who died on December 24, 2021.

A private funeral service will be held at Creekside Church at the convenience of the family. Burial will follow in Klemmes Corner Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Creekside Church Cemetery Fund ~ 11001 Bossert Rd, Brookville, IN 47012.

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 JeAnn’s Family.

Obituary for Dewey “Doug” Douglas Sparks

DEWEY “DOUG” DOUGLAS SPARKS

Dewey “Doug” Douglas Sparks, 62, of Everton, passed away Tuesday morning, October 11, 2022, at Reid Health, Richmond.

He was born November 15, 1959, in Connersville to Dewey Sparks and Janice Richter. He was a 1978 graduate of Connersville High School and also attended Hanover College for two years.

On November 28, 2018, he married Rhonda McQuinley in Connersville. Together, they resided in Everton. Mrs. Sparks survives.

Doug worked as a machinist for Aerodyne Engineering. Later, he worked in Indianapolis for Mears Engineering, and he retired from Olsen Custom Designs.

In his leisure, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. An avid sports fan, he loved watching the Colts and the Reds. Above all, he loved spending time with his family and grandbabies.

Survivors include his wife, Rhonda Sparks of Everton; four children, Shanna (Brenton) West of Everton, Doug Sparks, Jr. of Connersville, Daniel Sparks of Indiana, and Matthew Moore of Everton; grandchildren, Dillon, Dominic, Samantha, Alex, and Alyssa Sparks, Carina Badanek, and Jensen West; two brothers, Darron (Jenny) Sparks of Anderson, Indiana and David Sparks of Indianapolis; his step-father, Marvin Richter of Edwardsport, Indiana; his father and mother-in-law, Ted and Joy McQuinley of Everton; a brother-in-law, Mike McQuinley; two sisters-in-law, Mindy McQuinley (Danny Allen) and Sheila (Chris) Hobbs; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Dennis Sparks; maternal grandparents, Ernest and Rebecca Pennington; and paternal grandparents, Green and Emma Sparks.

Friends may visit from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. Friday, October 21, 2022, at Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be held at 6 p.m. Come as you are: comfy, casual, and camo, just as Doug would have wanted!

Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.

Obituary for Robert “Bob” Lee Powers

ROBERT “BOB” LEE POWERS

“The Legend” Robert “Bob” Lee Powers, 85, of Connersville, passed away early Sunday morning, October 9, 2022, at Reid Health, Richmond.

He was born September 15, 1937, in Connersville, one of two children of William and Katherine Smith Powers. He was a 1955 graduate of Connersville High School.

On June 18, 1960, he married the love of his life, Rosalie Brunsman, in St. Gabriel Catholic Church. They were always known as the “Power” couple. Rosalie passed away December 11, 2009.

Bob worked for General Electric in Sharonville from 1957 until 1961. Following his time at General Electric, he worked 38 years for the Connersville News Examiner. In 1961, he started as a sports writer, covering local sports, and eventually became the sports editor. Later, he was promoted to editor, a position he held until his retirement on December 31, 1999. During his career, Bob met many celebrities, including: Hank Aaron, Pete Rose, Johnny Rutherford, Bobby Allison, Ken Griffey, Sr. and Jr., and others. Upon learning of Bob’s death, Betsy Ross, a well-known sports journalist, made the comment that Bob had a big influence on her career.

Bob was a member of St. Gabriel Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, Elks Lodge, the Country Club, the Sports Writers Association, and the Officials Association.

An avid sports fan, he loved officiating various sports for Connersville High School. He was always a devoted supporter and volunteer for CHS Athletics.

Survivors include two daughters, Elizabeth “Beth” (Jimmy) Hisle and Karen (Bob) Kalkhoff, both of Connersville; four grandchildren, Drew (Kaylie) Savoy, Nathan Kalkhoff, Sara Kalkhoff, and Scotty Savoy; a great granddaughter on the way ; two brothers-in-law, Ben (Reita) Brunsman and John (Claudia) Brunsman; a sister-in-law, Judy Brunsman; special friends, Dave and Peggy Bates, Judy Graham, and George Heineman and family; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Rosalie K. Powers; his parents; a grandson, Chris Savoy; a sister, Joan Powers; and a brother-in-law, David Brunsman.

Friends may visit from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Friday, October 14, 2022, at Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home where the rosary will be recited at 3:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Reverend Dustin Boehm at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 15, 2022, at St. Gabriel Catholic Church. Burial will be in Dale Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Bob to St. Gabriel Catholic Church.

Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.

Obituary for Kent Montgomery “Monty” Bannon

KENT MONTGOMERY “MONTY” BANNON

Kent Montgomery “Monty” Bannon, 66, of Andersonville, passed away Monday morning, October 3, 2022, at his residence.

One of seven children of Robert Joseph and Eileen Mathis Bannon, Monty was born on January 21, 1956, in Connersville. He served with the Indiana National Guard for several years.

For many years, he was employed at Visteon as a machinist. He then became employed at Roman Nobbe Concrete of Batesville, ETM of Columbus, Maverick Trucking as an over-the-road driver, and Honda of Greenburg. Recently, he was employed at Best Way Disposal as a driver.

On May 5, 2012, Monty married the former Shannon M. Lemen in Greensburg. Mrs. Bannon survives.

Monty enjoyed golfing, fishing, playing pool, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Besides his wife, Shannon, survivors include a daughter Tanya Bannon of Greensburg; four grandchildren, Mikayla (John) Tomlin, Jaron (Kendall) Markland, Evan Bannon, and Chance Crawley; two great-grandchildren, Liberty Whitham and Riley Markland; four siblings, Loretta Hughes and Marilyn Morgan, both of Connersville, Barbara Hetland of Fern Park, Florida, and Deborah Fredrick of Andersonville; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Monty is preceded in death by two siblings, Beverly Jean Bannon and Michael Bannon, Sr.; and three bothers-in-law, Joe Morgan, Bill Hughes, Sr., and Nicholas Fredrick.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home. Reverend Rob Edwards will officiate. Military Honors provided by Fayette County Veterans Council.

Obituary for Daniel Jacob Schuler

DANIEL JACOB SCHULER

Daniel Jacob Schuler, age 47, of Brookville, died Sunday October 2, 2022, in Brookville.

Born March 13, 1975, in Batesville, he was one of five children born to Arnold E. Schuler and Linda (Hicks) Powers. He remained a lifelong resident of Franklin County.

He worked in construction for much of his life. In his leisure time, he enjoyed art and drawing.

Survivors include two daughters, Cheyenne Schuler of Lawrenceburg, and Angel Schuler of Metamora; his mother, Linda Powers of Harrison, Ohio; two sisters, Deanna Plummer of Kentucky and Kate Walker of Brookville, a brother, Kenneth Schuler of Cedar Grove; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Arnold E. Schuler who died September 3, 2014; as well as a brother, Robert Dale Schuler who died September 15, 2000. 

His aunt, Gayle Bolduc will officiate the private funeral services at Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home. 

The staff of Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home are honored to once again serve the Schuler family. To sign the online guest book or send personal condolences, please visit www.phillipsandmeyers.com.

Obituary for Wayne Edward Monroe (Complete)

WAYNE EDWARD MONROE

Wayne Edward Monroe, age 82, of Brookville, died early Monday morning October 3, 2022, at Bethesda North Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio following a brief illness.    

Born June 10, 1940, in Batesville, he was the son of the late Joseph Monroe and Lucy (Burch) Monroe Sampson. On August 5, 1961, he and the former Barbara J. Reuss united in marriage, and she survives.

Wayne was retired, having worked for many years as a stone and brick mason, before going to work at the former O’Gara Hess & Eisenhardt Armoring Company, which he retired from in 2006. He was a member of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Brookville. He was instrumental in restoring and keeping the Nativity Scene on the courthouse lawn in Brookville.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed the breakfast club at the VFW, gardening, painting as well as spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Besides Barbara, his loving wife of more than 61 years, survivors include four daughters, Annette Sizemore of Cincinnati, Becky (Chuck) Ketchum of Metamora, Cathy Baudendistel of Connersville, and Denise (Mike) Rains of Brookville; 12 grandchildren, Donnie (Christy) Sizemore, Whitney Sizemore, Alayna (Seth Parsley) Sizemore, Josh (Kipp Williams) Ketchum, Jenna Ketchum, Jonathan (Kianna) Baudendistel, Carlee (Nick) Moody, Coren (Curtis) Murphy, Cody Rains, Tyler Rains, Kiya Rains, Cayden Rains; six great-grandchildren, Lily Sizemore, Kyren Sizemore, Brysen Coker, Brody Haffey, Marcus Baudendistel and Kash Murphy; a sister, Sherrie Antonio of Indianapolis, and a brother, Rick (Sandy) Sampson of Boise, Idaho.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death three brothers, Leroy Monroe, Roy Monroe, Melvin Sampson.

Family and friends may visit from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 6, 2022, at Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home, 1025 Franklin Avenue, Brookville.

Rev. Vincent Lampert will officiate the Catholic Funeral Rite, Friday, October 7, 2022 10:30 a.m., at Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Brookville.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Veterans of Foreign Wars or St. Michael Catholic Church. The staff of Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home is honored to serve the Monroe family, to sign the online guest book or send personal condolences to the family please visit www.phillipsandmeyers.com.

Obituary for Geneva Floyd

GENEVA FLOYD

Geneva Floyd, age 101 of Brownsville, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, October 2, 2022. She was born on October 19, 1920, in Mildred, Kentucky to Charley Moore and Eva Lee Lonaker Moore. She was raised in Tyner, Kentucky where she graduated high school in the 10th grade.  

On August 30, 1941, she married Perry McClain Floyd in Richmond; they were able to spend 51 years together before he passed on October 18, 1992. In March of 1948, Geneva and Perry bought their forever home in Brownsville where Geneva spent her life of 74 years as a homemaker.  

Geneva was a faithful member of the Brownsville United Methodist Church. She was a member of the United Methodist Women’s group. She loved helping with the youth ministry and taking church youth trips. You could often find Geneva enjoying cleaning the church and making sure it was all tidy and ready for the next service. 

She was a Girl Scout leader for many years, she volunteered many years at the Union County voting polls, the Union County mental health association and also at the Richmond State Hospital.  

Geneva loved spending time in her yard, growing her flowers and garden. For many years, she had her own greenhouse where she would grow and sell her own plants. Her greatest joy in life was her children and grandchildren, spending time with them, going on many family trips together and going camping.  

Geneva is survived by her two sons, Joseph (Sandy) Floyd, of Liberty and John (Elaine) Floyd of Spring City, TN;  grandchildren, Evelyn (John) Burns, Teresa (Tim) King, Troy (Kim) Floyd, Tina Floyd (Troy Biddle), Jason Floyd, Clint (Amanda) Floyd, Joey (Mariah) Floyd, Anna (Kyle) Taylor and Jacob (Amy) Taylor; great grandchildren, Phillip, Megan, Mark, Derek, Dustin, Tyler, Trey, Adreannah, Dayne, Tristan, Cody, Lilly, Luke and Eli; great great-grandchildren, Tristan, Shayla, Gabriella, Hannah, Ella, Bryson, Ethan, Emma and Toby. 

Geneva was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Perry; a daughter, Eva Floyd; great great granddaughter, Lilly Jo Himelick; and six siblings.  

Visitation for Geneva will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022, from 11 am until 2 pm at Brownsville United Methodist Church, 212 Main St., Brownsville, Indiana 47325. The funeral service will begin at 2 pm at the church. Burial will follow in Brownsville United Methodist Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Brownsville United Methodist Cemetery.  

Urban Winkler Liberty Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.