Obituary for Wilma Ruth Benedict

WILMA RUTH BENEDICT

Wilma Ruth Benedict beloved wife of 49 years to the late Dale Benedict; loving mother of Elaine (Jeff) Painter, Josette (Rich) Spence, and the late Larry Benedict; cherished grandmother of Brian (Christina) Painter, Renee Painter, Matthew Painter, Allison Hartfiel (John), Madeline Binder, Lindsay Binder, Jessica (Jeremy) Vance, Joel Benedict, Lydia (Scott) Sargent, Tabitha (Daniel) Baird; great-grandmother to Juliana, Alexander, and Leila Painter; Ronan, Evangeline, Juliet, Violet, Aurora, Felicity, and Archer Vance; Selah, Quinn, and Calian Sargent; Reeves, Alia, Paul, and Jane Baird.

In addition to her husband, Dale, and her son, Larry, she was preceded in death by her parents Dallas Clyde and Mary Lola Wells, her older brothers Willie J. Wells (Christine) and Denver Earl Wells (Juanita), and grandson, Joshua Benedict. 

Wilma was born in Barbourville, Kentucky, spent her teenage years on the family farm in Brookville, and was a graduate of Brookville High School. Wilma and Dale, who were high school sweethearts, married in 1953 and later settled in Cincinnati where they raised their family. She managed their apartment buildings in the Clifton Gaslight area and opened her home to many who became lifelong friends. She also loved welcoming guests to the “Monte Vista,” the second home in Virginia she took great joy in furnishing.  

With a long legacy of faith that preceded her, she too, found her strength in God and prayer. Wilma went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, October 30, only four weeks after the family celebrated her 90th birthday.

Wilma was a longstanding member of the Mt. Healthy Eastern Star #365. She was a loving, classy woman and will be remembered for her hospitality, encouragement and her ease in making others laugh.  She will be missed by all who were blessed to know her. 

Funeral Services will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Friday, November 5, 2021, at Spring Grove Funeral Home, 4389 Spring Grove Ave, Cincinnati. Friends may gather with the family beginning at 1 p.m. and lasting until the time of service. An Eastern Star service will be conducted at 12:50 p.m. by the Mt. Healthy Eastern Star #365.

She will be laid to rest at Spring Grove Cemetery and a celebration of life reception will follow at the funeral home event center from 3-5 pm. Memorial contributions in Wilma’s memory may be given to Mid-Western Children’s Home, 4585 Long-Spurling Road, Pleasant Plain, OH 45162. 

Obituary for James Wesley Rose

JAMES WESLEY ROSE

James Wesley Rose, 50, of Laurel, passed away Monday, November 1, 2021, at his residence.

He was born January 15, 1971, in Rushville, one of four children of Gilbert and Betty Hicks Rose.

At the age of 16, James began driving a truck with his father, ultimately allowing him to own and operate his own truck driving business as an adult.

He was a member of Buena Southern Missionary Baptist Church in Laurel.

An outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding his motorcycle. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his mother, Betty Hicks of Laurel; three children, Chelsey (Michael) Nieto of Westport, Alicia (George) Scott of Indianapolis, and James (Alycia) Rose of Greenwood; 10 grandchildren, Nylah, Brooklynn, Ava, James, Weslynn, Kinsley, Bo, Benjamin, Keaton, and Kailyn; two brothers, Charles (Rita) Rose and Randal (Theresa) Rose, both of Laurel; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father, Gilbert Rose; a brother, Gilbert Ray Rose; paternal grandparents, Charles and Carrie Rose; maternal grandparents, Willard and Rebecca Hicks; and a step-grandfather, Roy Holloway.

Friends may visit from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. Friday, November 5, 2021, at Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home. Pastor Rob Edwards will officiate the service. Burial will be at Laurel North Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.

Brookville taxpayers pledged to hire Indianapolis law firm for BTC due to ongoing ISP investigation

By John Estridge

It took 1:54 for Brookville Town Council to hire the Indianapolis law firm Bose McKinney & Evans to represent the town, if needed, due to the ongoing Indiana State Police investigation into BTC President Curtis Ward and BTC Member Chuck Campbell.

The state police opened an investigation concerning Conflict of Interest, a possible felony or felonies, after Ward purchased nine lots adjacent to Brook Hill Golf Club on July 7 and then he demanded the town hurry up and purchase the golf course at the August 10 BTC meeting. Since that time, Ward negotiated the purchase agreement, read into record, voted for and signed many documents concerning the golf course purchase. Campbell voted for and signed documents related to the purchase, and he owns one lot adjacent to the golf course.

And the taxpayers were forced to purchase the golf course, which includes a 22-year $2.2 million bond.

BTC Attorney Tammy Davis was about the only person to speak during the Tuesday afternoon special meeting. She said she picked the Indy firm because that firm has represented the town in other issues. That includes the bond issue for the purchase of the golf course, with the purchase being one of the reasons behind the ISP investigation. It is also assisting the town with the annexation process. That also figures into the ISP investigation as Ward wrote a $4 million READI Grant application for infrastructure to help proposed housing developments in the proposed annexation area, including a 96 condo development on the nine lots, about 12 acres, Ward purchased on July 7. The only way for Ward to be able to put 96 condos on less than 12 acres is to have sanitary sewers and upgraded water lines. Those would come with annexation.

Davis specifically wants to hire Timothy DeLaney, a partner in the law firm.

The cost for DeLaney’s services is $420 per hour, and Davis said there will be additional costs for associate attorneys and paralegals.

Davis said the law firm may not be needed, but she wanted the town to have access to it, if the firm is needed.

“I would like to have the board’s approval to engage them with anything that may stem from this ongoing investigation,” Davis said. “Not that I think it will come to that. But if it does, I would like to have Bose McKinney engaged in that, if it is something I am not able to assist with.”

There were no smiles at the council table. Campbell was not present. The vote was 3-0 as Ward did not vote. Brooke Leffingwell, Eric Johnson and Cathy Pelsor voted for the motion.

It was not explained how the firm will be used and if the town taxpayers will have to pay for the Indianapolis law firm to defend Ward and Campbell personally. If that is the purpose, then the taxpayers will pick up the attorneys’ bill to defend the two men if the men are charged as a result of the investigation.

After the meeting, Brookville resident Bridget Hayes asked Davis and council members if DeLaney was also working on the infamous feasibility study. There is a feasibility study concerning the annexation and it was thought it also concerned the golf course purchase. However, nothing apparently has been done about the study even though Ward said, at almost every BTC meeting in the past year, the feasibility study is ongoing. Another attorney for the Bose McKinney & Evans firm, Brenda K. DeVries, said in a recent public hearing on the $2.2 million bond issue, it is not public record concerning the law firm’s contract with the town.

The only answer Hayes received came from Ward.

“I’m not answering questions,” Ward said before leaving the meeting.

Public Access Counselor rules BTC’s Tuesday afternoon meeting is legal meeting

By John Estridge

Tuesday afternoon’s BTC meeting is a legal meeting.

Indiana’ Public Access Counselor Luke Britt said it does not matter the town office was closed for business on Friday when the special meeting notice was posted on its door window. He said the fact it was before 5:30 p.m., made the meeting a legal meeting, giving the required 48 hours notice.

The town is having a special meeting with McKinney Bose and Evans LLP concerning an engagement letter. The law firm is involved in all aspects of what is occurring on Snob Knob.

Obituary for Ronald Nelson Renfro (complete)

RONALD NELSON RENFRO

Ronald Nelson Renfro, age 59, of Laurel, died Thursday, October 28, 2021, at Margaret Mary Health in Batesville following a brief illness.

Born April 5, 1962, in Springfield, Ohio he was one of four children born to the late Nelson Alonzo and Evelyn (Smith) Renfro. He was united in marriage to the former Jamey McQueen and she survives.

He was self-employed in Excavating and Contracting for much of his life. In his leisure time, he enjoyed classic cars and motorcycles.

Besides his wife Jamey, he is survived by his children, Ryan Albin of Napoleon, Randy Renfro of Ohio, Matt Albin of Napoleon, Justin Renfro of Laurel, Ronny Renfro of Laurel, Brad McQueen of Connersville, and Ashley Fultz of Osgood; four grandchildren, Chloe, Carly and Carter McQueen and Mason Wilson; two sisters, Debra Richardson of Laurel, and Barbara Gibson of New Carlisle, Ohio.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother James Renfro.

Family and friends may visit from 5 till 6 p.m. on Friday, November 5, 2021, at Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home, 1025 Franklin Avenue, Brookville.

Rev. Mike Holman will officiate the Funeral Services at 6 p.m., Friday, November 5, 2021, at Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home, 1025 Franklin Avenue, Brookville.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Franklin County Humane Society. 

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

Obituary for Thomas W. Hall (complete)

THOMAS W. HALL

Thomas W. Hall, age 83 of Fairfield, Ohio and formerly of West Harrison, died Sunday, October 31, 2021, at his residence in Fairfield surrounded by family.

Born May 17, 1938 in Indianapolis, he was one of four children born to the late George Wesley and Julia (Larner) Hall. He was united in marriage in 1960, to the former Nancy Lu Rieber, and she preceded him in death August 24, 2019.

Tom was a member of the former Holy Guardian Angels Parish in Cedar Grove, where he had served on Parish Council, the Knights of Columbus, as well as the Ohio Valley Austin Healey Club. In his leisure time he enjoyed landscaping and gardening, and classic car shows.

Survivors include four children, Juliann (Rob) King of Fairfield, Ohio, Mark Hall of Batavia, Ohio, Marie (David) Saylor and Randy Hall both of Western Hills, Ohio; two sisters, Sharon Sommerville and Linda Connor both of Indianapolis; a brother, Dennis Hall of Jacksonville, Florida; seven grandchildren, Wesley King, Joseph King, Alexandra Hall, Stephanie Hall, Jack Hall, Carlyann Hall, and Steven Hall.

Thomas W. Hall, was a wonderful, kind, man who went out of his way to make friends with anyone that he had met in his life. Tom was a loving son, father, grandfather, and friend who loved everyone deeply He was a free spirit who enjoyed the little things in life, such as hunting, his nightly watches of Jeopardy, and spending time with his family. He was also a member and had a deep dedication to the Austin Healey Club. Tom once said, “There is nothing more freeing than taking a ride through the country on nice sunny day.” Tom was greatly loved by so many in his life time and could always make someone laugh with his hilarious dad jokes, knowing that there was comfort and warmth behind them. Tom also enjoyed spending time with his seven grandchildren and loved teaching them about the wonders of fishing, shooting, how to change the oil on a vehicle, and how a golf cart works.

If you knew Tom you’d know that the love of his life Nancy passed two years ago and in his final wishes he longed to be with her, we think now he is resting on a bench somewhere splitting that vanilla ice cream cone with his love and enjoying every single second of it. Tom Hall you will always be remembered and never forgotten, rest easy friend.

Family and friends may visit from 11 till 12 Noon on Wednesday, November 3, 2021, at Holy Guardian Angels Oratory, 405 U.S. Highway 52, Cedar Grove, Indiana.

Rev. Vincent Lampert will officiate the Mass of Christian Burial at 12 Noon, Wednesday, November 3, 2021, at Holy Guardian Angels Oratory in Cedar Grove. Burial will follow in Holy Guardian Angels Cemetery in Cedar Grove.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Cancer Society. The staff of Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home are honored to serve the Hall family, to sign the online guest book or send personal condolences please visit www.phillipsandmeyers.com.

Obituary for Lawrence P. Enzinger

LAWRENCE P. ENZINGER

Lawrence P. Enzinger, age 72 of Batesville, died Saturday, October 30, 2021, at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. Born July 9, 1949, in Batesville, he is the son of Virginia (Nee: Seevers) and Paul Enzinger Sr. He married Joyce Holland October of 1975, in Dillsboro. Larry worked at Doyle Heating Company for several years before going to work at Batesville Casket Company for more than 25 years before retiring in 2015.

Many of Larry’s interests took him outdoors. He loved to go fishing and golfing in addition to playing softball for many years. Although he was a Reds fan, he enjoyed watching sports of all sorts and often could be found in the crowd of his nieces’ and nephews’ sporting events. Larry and Joyce liked to travel, with Gatlinburg and Destin Florida their favorite destinations. He was also generous volunteering his time to the church for the annual church picnic and bingos as well as helping at the Knights of Columbus regularly.

He is survived by his sisters and brother-in-laws Constance and Vernon Munchel of Milroy, Barbara and Jim Koester of Batesville; brother Paul Enzinger Jr. of Indianapolis and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his wife Joyce who passed away on October 30 as well.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 4, from 4 – 7 p.m. at the funeral home with a rosary service at 4 p.m. Funeral services are 10 a.m. Friday, November 5, at St. Louis Church with Rev. Stan Pondo officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military rites conducted by the Ripley Co. V.F.W. Post #3183 and the Prell-Bland American Legion Post #271. The family requests memorials to the Batesville Knights of Columbus.

Obituary for Mark J. Stein

MARK J. STEIN

Mark Joseph Stein, 63 of Carmel, passed away September 25, 2021. He was born January 22, 1958, in Batesville to Elizabeth and William Stein Sr. He was a 1976 Graduate of Batesville High School where he wrestled and was voted Mr. BHS.

Mark was a born fighter and against all odds, conquered what most of us would not have had the courage to endure. In and out of multiple surgeries and casts from birth, his parents were told he would never walk, run, or play sports. With gentle, yet firm love and encouragement from his parents, he went on to not only walk and run, but he played baseball and football in his younger years and would wrestle in high school where he was a conference champion. Through it all, he never, ever, complained and always had a smile on his face. This adversity readied him for the world as it shaped and strengthened his resolve in all that he did.

Mark graduated from Ball State University and used his Marketing degree in various sales and management roles including Regional Business Manager, National Director GPO’s & Segment Marketing, as well as National Director Corporate Accounts – Integrated Health Networks, while at Roche Diagnostics. He later became National Director of Corporate Accounts for Instrumentation Laboratory (IL) in Bedford, Massachusetts.

Mark’s career success took a back seat to his family. His greatest achievements were his children. He loved them with his entire being, bragging about the smallest of steps they took, cheering for them as a loving father does, every step of the way. Happy when they were well and worrying about them when they were not.

Mark had many passions and whatever he did, he was all in, 100 percent. One of his passions was motorcycles, from the time he was a child, riding mini-bikes and collecting motorcycle trading cards. He loved riding with friends and family and often referred to it as his “wind therapy.” He also had a passion for projects, whether they were around the house or involving things that needed to be done to his vehicles and motorcycles. He would meticulously research the subject and become more knowledgeable than the experts hired to do the actual work. This preparedness also benefitted him in one of his other passions, negotiating the deal.

Mark loved catching up at family gatherings, talking about the antics of his youth and laughing about the adventures life had thrown our way. He was a very confident and charismatic man, as well as generous, and humble. His contagious laughter filled the room, our hearts, and our souls. He represented the best in all of us.

Mark is survived by; his wife Wendy, son Jonathan (Chelsea) Stein and precious grandson Damien Joseph of Columbus, Ohio; daughter Addison of Nashville, Tennessee; stepdaughters Carley Baker of Laguna Nigel, California, Sydney Baker (Ryan) of Sacramento, California; his mother Elizabeth of Batesville; sisters Mary (Kenny Peetz) Starost of Oldenburg, Cheryl Bittermann of West Chester, Ohio, Melissa Bradley of Osgood, and brothers William Jr. (Judy) of Oldenburg, Gregory (Susan) of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Thomas (Ginger) of Annville, Pennsylvania, David (Bethsabe) of New Baltimore, Michigan, Larry (Susan) of Noblesville and Michael (Terri) of Mount Orab, Ohio. He is also survived by 25 nieces and nephews, 42 great nieces and nephews and two great, great nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father.

Mark was cremated. The family will receive friends from 9 – 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 6, at the funeral home. A memorial service follows at 11 a.m. with inurnment in St. Louis Cemetery. The family requests memorials to Riley Children’s Hospital, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Room 4510, Indianapolis, IN 46202.

Obituary for Irene Agatha Marie Fitzpatrick

IRENE AGATHA MARIE FITZPATRICK

Irene Agatha Marie Fitzpatrick of Batesville, passed away on Friday, October 29, 2021, at The Chateau in Batesville. She was 101 years old. The daughter of John and Irene (Rodert) Gladwish was born on August 15, 1920, in Cincinnati. 

Irene grew up in Ludlow, Kentucky. Stories from her childhood included the Great Depression, the Flood of ’37 and how she and her friends used to swim across the Ohio River in her teenage years. She married Garrett Fitzpatrick Jr. and together they raised 10 children.

Irene was very fond of everything sewing, from making all the clothes for her children to crocheting afghans and knitting. She belonged to a few quilting groups over the years too. Irene enjoyed cooking and was a good cook as well. Mostly she loved to travel, taking trips down the river on the Delta Queen or cruises through the islands and tours to Hawaii, Europe and beyond, Irene was always ready for the next adventure.

She will be dearly missed by her children, Glenn ‘Bob’ Fitzpatrick (Jane) of Batesville, Kathy Nishihira (Ron) of Aubrun, WA, Michael Fitzpatrick (Debbie) of Casa Grande, AZ and Colleen Fitzpatrick of Ft. Collins, CO; 20 grandchildren, 39 great grand children and nine great great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, and husband Garrett, she is preceded in death by her children, Garrett Fitzpatrick III, John Fitzpatrick, Irene Brafford, Randolf Fitzpatrick, James Fitzpatrick and Patrick Fitzpatrick.

Her wishes were to be cremated with private services at a later date. 

Obituary for Emily Jane (Janie) Sparks

EMILY JANE (JANIE) SPARKS

Emily Jane (Janie) Sparks, 76, of Connersville, passed away on Saturday, October 30, 2021. She was born on August 2, 1945, in Connersville, to her parents Leonard Tomlin, and Ruth (Allen) Tomlin.

She later graduated high school and married her husband and the father of her children, Donnie Ray Sparks, and they lived a life together until he passed away in 1987.

Janie went to a few churches throughout her life, some of those being Baptist Temple, and Assembly of God.

Janie loved going camping, she loved her animals especially her dog Annie, and her cat Kelly, she enjoyed playing sports with her children and grandchildren, and cooking. Most of all she cherished the time she was able to spend with her family.

Along with the love of her life Jay Hayes of more than 30 years, she leaves behind her children; Emma (Bill) Highlander, Deena (Mark) Burke, April Sparks, Danny (Denise) Sparks, a brother Bill Tomlin, sisters; Loreda (Petey) Ramsey, and Anne McMillan, grandchildren; Brittany, Donnie, Darrien, Carlee, Kira, Caleb, Hayley, Dane, Corey, Will, Blake, Devon, Brayden, Austin, and Candice, as well as 13 great grandchildren.

Janie was preceded in death by her father Leonard Tomlin, the father of her children Donnie Ray Sparks, her brother Leonard Tomlin, and her son, Donnie Sparks.

Visitation for Janie will be held on Thursday, November 4, 2021, at Urban Winkler Funeral Home from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, November 5, 2021, at the funeral home starting at 11 a.m., with Bobby Ward officiating. 513 W 8th Street Connersville, IN 47331.

Burial will follow in Dale Cemetery.