G.H. Herrmann Funeral Homes - Indianapolis Obituaries

Obituary Preview: Michael Eugene Ralston, MD, FACS, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana at the age of 75. He was born on October 8, 1948 in Van Wert, Ohio to the late Dorothy (Christen) Ralston and Myron “Mike” Ward Ralston. He was preceded in death by his sister, Linda L. Bebout.Mike was a 1967 graduate of Van Wert High School in Van Wert, Ohio where he was a three sport athlete. He was a 1971 Phi Beta Kappa graduate of The Ohio State University where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and a 1974 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Medicine.Dr. Ralston was a distinguished Orthopaedic Surgeon, having completed his Residency training in General Surgery at the University of Florida in Gainesville and his Residency in Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Missouri in Columbia. He furthered his expertise with Fellowship training in Total Joint Replacement at The Ohio State University Affiliated Hospitals. Dr. Ralston was highly respected, being Board certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, a Fellow in the American College of Surgeons, and a Fellow in the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. He served as Chair of the Orthopaedic Department at Mount Carmel East Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and was an integral part of the Orthopaedics Departments at Grant Hospital and St. Ann’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and the Franciscan Health System in Indianapolis, Indiana.Outside of his professional life, Dr. Ralston was a proud member of various organizations including the Sons of the American Revolution, First Families of Ohio, The Military Order of The Loyal Legion, and the Society of the Descendants of Washington’s Army at Valley Forge.He is survived by his wife of fifty years, Mary Ann (Keckstein), his children Elizabeth (Colin) Clark and Geoffrey (Katherine) Ralston, as well as his brothers and sisters-in-law Bradley Bebout of Van Wert, Ohio, John and Julie Keckstein, and James and Toni Keckstein of Columbus, Ohio, Miles and Martha Kouskouris of Powell, Ohio, Mark and Marcia Keckstein of Bradenton, Florida, James and Ruth Anderson of Phoenix, Arizona, and many beloved nieces and nephews.Contributions in Memory of Dr. Ralston can be made to the University of Missouri Residency Research Fund which he helped to initiate.Funeral arrangements are being handled by GH Herrmann Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Indianapolis, Indiana.A private burial will take place in Dublin, Ohio.

Obituary Preview: Wayne Noel Burns, 68, of Fairland, passed away on March 9, 2024. He was born on May 19, 1955 in Franklin, Indiana to the late Jackie Lee Burns and Alta Mae (Higgins) Newton.On July 1, 1972 he married the love of his life, Cathryn June Stickles. Together they have 3 daughters.Wayne was a true family man who would give to them before worrying about himself. By trade Wayne was a truck driver. His CB handle was Popeye.He loved camping and building model cars in his spare time. He was a stock car driver at Indianapolis Speedrome for many years. He was always helping everyone with anything.Wayne is preceded in death by his wife, Cathy June (Dear); his mom and dad Alta Mae and Herbert Paul Newton and his father, Jackie Lee Burns; his great grandson, Walker Thomas Jones and brothers, Eddie Newton, and Donald Newman; and his beloved fur babies, Squirt, and Marlee.Wayne is survived by his daughters, and sons, Juanita and Ricky Goode, Cathy and Raul Flores-Lopez and Beverly and Matthew Mangrum; his best friend, Joyce Perkins. His honorary children, Andrew and Michelle Fleming and Matt and Candice Fleming; grandchildren, Erica and Tony, Jennifer, Leslie Wayne, Vanessa and Sammy, Dakota and Austin, Vicki and Richard, Kassie and Tony, Rachel and Devon, JJ, Courtney and Jon, Scotty, Colton, Marie and Biggz, Tyler, Jace, Lily, Madeline, Adam, and RJ; great grandchildren, Alyssa, Colt, Samantha, Blake, Caden, Catherine, Jeydon, Braxton, Xavier, Christine, Caleigh, Addy, Izaiah, Amira, Evelynn, Baby M., Everlee and Dawson; siblings, Bev Newman, Cathy Ann Burns, Jeff Burns, Ricky Burns, Jackie Burns, Angela Whitaker, Nancy Napier, Paula Tucker, Jennifer Vaught, Donna Helterbrand, Keith Stickles, Jerry Stickles and Bobby Stickles; many nieces, and nephews.Wayne will be missed by all who knew and loved him.The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at G. H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 S. East Street. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 15, 2024 at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest at Acton Cemetery.Please share your fond memories, photographs of Wayne and online condolences with the family.

Obituary Preview: Michael J. Hopkins, 67, of Indianapolis, passed away on February 8, 2024.  He was born on January 6, 1957 in Indianapolis, to the late William Hopkins and Mary Lou Freeman.Michael worked as a mechanic for most of his life. Most recent being at Jackson & Oil Solvents.He enjoyed camping, spending time with his family and friends, cooking, piddling around in his garage, and drinking beer with his friends.Michael leaves behind to treasure his memory, his children, Riley Hopkins (his dog), Chasity Brake (Jeffery Brake), Jennifer Nelson (Joseph Nelson), Jason Hopkins, William Hopkins (Jana Hopkins), and Michael Hopkins, his grandchildren, Catelin Martinez (Juan Martinez), Taylor Grider (Jeremy Dillon), Alyssa Clark, Amiah Hopkins, Jemma Hopkins, Elizabeth Petrey, Michael Hopkins, Hannah Hopkins, William Hopkins, step children, other grandkids, great grandkids, nieces, and nephews.The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Monday, February 12, 2024 at G.H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 South East Street, Indianapolis.Please share memories, photographs and online condolences with the family.

Obituary Preview: Tracey William Becraft, 58, of Indianapolis, passed away on December 11, 2023.  He was born on February 28, 1965 in Indianapolis, Indiana to the late Charles William Becraft, Sr. and Nora Maxine Becraft.Tracey loved to listen to country music, collect Native American figurines, drink coffee, sit outside, talk about his children and grandchildren and take walks when he was able to.He is survived by his daughters, Sara McGauhey and Ashley Smith; grandchildren, Logan McGauhey, Sean McGauhey, Lilly McGauhey, Daniel McGauhey, Brandon Kent; siblings, Sandra Becraft and Steve Becraft; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.He is preceded in death by his father Charles William Becraft, Sr. and mother, Nora Maxine Becraft; granddaughter, Payton Smith; siblings, Mark Becraft, Charles Becraft, Jr., Debbie Becraft Gibson; nephew Dustin Harris and niece Rachel Becraft.Visitation will be from 12:30 pm until the service time at 2:30pm Friday, December 22, 2023 at G.H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 S. East Street, Indianapolis, IN 46225.

Obituary Preview: Willard Lewis Smith, 53, of Indianapolis, passed away on December 7, 2023. He was born on March 23, 1970 in Indianapolis, IN to Jackie Lewis Smith and Carolyn (Davis) Payton.He is survived by his mother, Carolyn Payton; sister, Connie Smith, brother, Joe Smith, 2 nieces, Angie Pinkson and Shelby Smith.Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM at G.H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 South East Street, Indianapolis, IN followed by a graveside service at 1:00 PM at New Crown Cemetery, 2101 Churchman Avenue, Indianapolis, IN.

Obituary Preview: Ronald Ritchie Benz, 84, Indianapolis, IN, passed away into the arms of Heaven on November 27, 2023. He was born on January 8, 1939 in Cincinnati, Ohio where his parents were caretakers for the United Methodist Children’s Home. Ron survived by his three children — Tim Benz (Ruth Benz), April Benz, and Tara Benz-Moy (Edward Moy), and his two siblings — Phyllis Hollis and Donald Benz. Ron was preceded in death in Oct. 2023 by his loving wife of 62 years, Sarah Benz. He doted on, joked with, and crafted wooden games of yesteryear for his three grandchildren — Matthias, Ellis, and Clara, step grandchildren — Allyson and Kara, one great-grandchild — Hazel, and six step great-grands. Sarah's funeral will be held jointly with that of Ronald R. Benz. The funeral service will be held Friday, December 8, 2023 at 11:30 a.m. with a visitation on Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 4 to 8 p.m. at G. H. Herrmann Funeral Home, 5141 Madison Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana. Please see full obituary at www.ghherrmann.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association in Ron’s name. If you would like to send flowers, the family is using McNamara as their preferred florist.Throughout his life, Ron wanted to help people in whatever ways he could. Even as cancer stole his breath, he joked about the bristleless toothbrush the nurse handed him in hospital and the “thing that people had lost for a long time, but finally found” — a picture he’d found off the internet of a needle in a haystack. “The person’s demeanor changes,” he’d grin with childish mischief after delivering his jokes. “They come in all serious with no expression [on their lips], but then I show them this, and they warm up.” In his last days, he expressed the wish that he could have helped more people in his life, but while he may have felt that way, the fatherless boys and men that looked to him for mentorship, the man that owes his left leg to a thrifted treadmill Ron helped locate, and the host of neighbors, friends, and family who benefited from his homemade bread, cookies, free snow removal services, and care would probably say he helped plenty. He befriended people with simple gestures and kept going back to remind them they were seen and loved.When he was about three, Ron’s parents moved the family back to their hometown of Marengo, Indiana. It was there that he first learned the joy he could bring to himself and others through service. He woke up at 5 a.m. to help his Daddy milk the cows, helped make hay and keep a large garden, and was even lowered twenty-two feet to clean the bottom of the family well with a rope tied under his armpits because he “was little, and the only one who could do it.” When he wasn’t helping out on the farm, Ron loved to roam it; for him, a good roam was wandering down by the woods looking for squirrels. In that quiet, he listened for a nut to drop, for the rattling of leaves as the squirrels jumped from limb to limb, or for them to chatter in tiny voices at him. In those moments, he cultivated his love for calm quiet and his legendary patience. Ron enjoyed shooting his Red Ryder BB gun; when he was around eight, he proudly invented and built a target that would catch his BB’s after he shot them. Growing up on the farm, he learned early on not to waste and to fix or make what he needed, and that experimentation was the incubator for his lifelong love of tinkering.Ron had a deep connection to the land, but he also was a keen observer of people; it was in those observations, that he learned the kind of person he wanted to be. When his Mother and Daddy would go into town for groceries, his Daddy would give him ten cents, and he’d go down the road to the pharmacy and read comic books. When it was time to go, he’d pick a comic he hadn’t read yet and buy it; for his whole life, he has appreciated that the owner was kind to him and never said anything to him about reading many more comics than he purchased. I’d like to think he kept those comic books his whole life as a reminder of the human warmth and connection that he found in that pharmacy.One time, Ron’s baby blue eyes witnessed that his hardworking parents were forced to pay the insurance man with a chicken because they didn't have the money available for the premium. At that time, he vowed to help his future family be more financially stable than his childhood one, so after he graduated from Milltown High School with 21 in his graduating class, he decided to go to college and leave the farm. The only problem was, he didn’t know what he wanted to study.At Indiana Central (now University of Indianapolis), he took an aptitude test where he scored much higher in math than any other subject. In his mind, that score decided his future, and so he chose to major in math to become a math teacher. His rural high school did not push academics, so his most recent math class had been a first year algebra class that he took as a freshman in high school. Now a freshman in college and having forgotten much of first year algebra, he struggled that first semester to pass second year algebra. Luckily for him, Professor Sidebottom said Ron could stop by anytime for help, and Ron stopped by often. Mr. Sidebottom saw his pluck and potential and passed him with a ‘C’ even though he’d earned a ‘D.’ Without the help from Mr. Sidebottom, Ron wouldn’t have been able to major in math. After that first semester, he continued to study hard to compete with students from more academic backgrounds, and he earned ‘A’s in his math classes after that. He would later earn a Master’s in Math from Northwestern University. He saw his trajectory as a math student to teacher as part of God’s guidance, taking him down a path that he could not have imagined or traversed alone. Perhaps it was then that he saw the impact having one person in his corner could do. Perhaps it was then that he began to consider how he could be that person for others.After graduation, he took a teaching job at Warren Central that lasted 49 years; he taught all levels of math, but Algebra II was his favorite to teach. He never told many people about his background because he worried they wouldn’t trust him as a teacher, but it was that humble, hardworking background that made him a truly “gentle”man that held kids accountable but encouraged and worked with them to make sure they could succeed. He felt he needed to “try to reach the minds of the students to help them understand the necessary steps to be successful.” A few WCHS students shared with me that he “gifted them” a grade, but when quizzed over that, he furrowed his eyebrows and shook his head, “I doubt it. That’s not something I did much of.” Instead, he viewed his job was to be in their corner, walking with them and making sure they earned their grades. Thankfully, Ron found more than a love for math at Indiana Central. It was there that he happened to sit next to his future wife, Sarah, during a bonfire at freshman orientation at Indiana Central, and they talked a little. After that, to his surprise (She hardly knew him!), she continued to seek him out for conversation and companionship at weekly chapel. In February of that year, she asked him to a Sadie Hawkins dance — their first date, where, he “danced a little; [he] didn't know how, but [he] did.” She believed he was an answer to prayer; he knew she showed interest in him and what he liked, communicated with him, and thought he was important to her. In other words, she spoke his love language of being seen and understood, and she saw beauty in his practicality and down-to-earth nature. In this way, the man who was voted “Most Bashful” in his senior year of high school in 1956, let our mother into his heart. He would say that his marriage was part of God’s plan too because he would have been too nervous to ask Sarah on a date himself, let alone a date where there was dancing involved!With the engagement ring he chose lost in the mail and reordered, Ron likely proposed without a ring, but of course, Sarah just knew he was meant for her, and they were married after five years of dating. As Ron and Sarah built their life together, he continued to love her with hard work and service. Whenever Sarah asked him to fix a chair or pick tomatoes, he dropped everything and did it right away. His baby blue eyes would lock with hers and speak of love, safety, peace, and a little mischief. He didn’t need words to tell her; those steady eyes could say it all. God knew they were perfectly imperfect for each other.From work on the farm and his experiences at college, he became the man that wasn’t afraid to try something he hadn’t done before and “figure it out.” He built extra rooms onto his house, refinished furniture, and even built his youngest a swinging teeter totter. He was the guy going through your trash this week and calling his neighbors the next to see if they needed a table that he’d replaced a leg on. Ron didn’t believe in waste. At least once, he found a squirrel that had been run over by a car, and since it was still fresh because it was warm to the touch, he carted it home and had Sarah cook it for dinner. One of his keys to happiness was “looking for the good in people instead of something you can criticize them about.” He looked for the good in things and people, the salvageable, and the hope.He loved his three kids like he loved his salvaged furniture and tinkering projects; that is to say, he was a calm, fierce protector of imperfect people, and he gave us the best tools he knew of to navigate this broken world. He took us to church every Sunday. He allowed us to hammer in a nail or solder two wires together as he supervised and to help out with his projects; he taught us the joy that comes from creating and making something broken whole. He taught us to get up early on Saturdays for garage sales and how to negotiate the best deals for the most interesting treasures — a second-hand apple picker or metal detector held the promise of quality adventures spent with people or nature. He taught us how refreshing a quiet evening on the backyard swing can be. He taught us to walk in the woods, to listen for squirrels to drop a nut or chatter at us, and to be quiet and simply be with the world. He taught us how to reach out to people with simple acts of kindness. Most importantly, he taught us to wonder at the beauty and promise of God’s world, the people in it, and ourselves.In his retirement years, he continued to live life as he’d always lived it. Working on novel math problems, caring for the squirrels and birds in his backyard that came to feast on corn and bathe old pots, growing a jungle of a garden with produce rivaling those of award-winning crops, puttering around fixing things, turning beautiful wooden bowls, and making a host of children’s games from yesteryear. Then, he took those things that he loved and shared them —gifting his creations or introducing the scampering baby squirrels he’d been feeding after their momma passed to his own grandchildren. If he was sitting still, it was because kids or grandkids were visiting and he was watching them with gentle eyes, grinning quietly at their antics, and giving advice in an even voice.Toward the end of his life, so many people surrounded us to help us care for Ron and Sarah. Thank you to Debbie, Alyson, Robin, Liesl, Bev, Nancy, John, and Diana for stepping in to be at the house when we needed extra caregivers for hours at a time. Thank you to Ronnie and Gary for your consistent visits. Community Home Health services supported Ron and his family while he was on hospice. Thank you to Leigh for your steady attention, calm, care, and friendship. Thank you to Rob for your songs and prayers one difficult night. Thank you to Dachelle, Kim, Mike, and Pam for your ongoing care and support and the dignity you brought with you. Thank you to Mia and her kind team at Seals Ambulance Services for going above and beyond to transport Ron to the hospital to see his dying wife in a “we’ve never seen this situation before” scenario. These people stepped in as friends, strangers, and community members and became the people in Ron’s corner; we are grateful for you, and so was he.Ron was a man who found much joy in the everyday and loved so-called ordinary people and things in an extraordinary way. He loved God, and he loved the imperfect with firm belief that if God held him close, he was free and bold to hold others close too. May we all aspire to live how he lived — looking for the good in each person, helping others, and dancing through life. Even if we don’t know how, we can work hard to figure it out.

Obituary Preview: Anna Mae Pike, 68, of Indianapolis, passed away on July 18, 2023. Anna was born on July 2, 1955 in Indianapolis, IN to Robert E. John, Sr. and Shirley J. (Scales) John.She was a member of Indianapolis Baptist Temple. Anna enjoyed spending time with her family, friends, two dogs Zim and Jasper, and capturing all the moments through her photography. She worked as a professional photographer at Lifetouch until she retired.Anna is survived by her daughter, Shirley Byram; son, Donald Lake II; grandchildren, Stacey Gomes, Alexis Lake, Katelyn Engle, Mark Byram II, Madalyn Byram, Miles Byram, Marina Byram, Chloe Lake, Max Byram; great grandchildren, Josephine Sparks, Oliver Sparks, Nadine Gomes; brothers, Robert John Jr. And Paul John.She was preceded in death by her father Robert E John Sr., mother Shirley J. (Scales) John, and stepbrother Richard Branson.Visitation will be held on Monday, July 24, 2023 from 12:30 pm until the time of service at 2:30 pm at G.H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 South East Street, Indianapolis, IN. Memorial contributions may be made to https://venmo.com/u/Shirley-Byram Please share memories, photographs, and online condolences with the family at www.ghherrmann.com

Obituary Preview: Mary J. Teeters, 71, of Indianapolis passed away at her residence on June 23, 2023. She was born on October 22, 1951 to the late William Leroy and Mary Ellen Teeters.After attending Harry E. Wood High School, Mary went to work for Holiday Inn Express and Goodwill. Mary loved people and if you were her friend, you knew it.Mary leaves behind memories of her laughter and stories about her life.Besides her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her infant son, Edward L. Taylor; brother, Richard Teeters and sister, Peggy Montgomery.There will be no services or calling. Arrangements entrusted to G.H. Herrmann Funeral Homes, 1505 S. East St. Indianapolis, IN. Condolences can be shared at www.ghherrmann.com

Obituary Preview: Donna Kay Davis, 77, of Indianapolis, passed away on May 21, 2023.  She was born on February 18, 1946 in Indianapolis, Indiana to the late Elmer and Marie Bailey.She was married to Daniel W. Davis for 43 years.She was a member of Berean Baptist Church.She enjoyed: her dog Bella, working outside, she loved to cook and make her fried chicken, she loved to work in her garden, and cutting grass in her bare feet. She enjoyed sitting out in the sun, and making her sun tea, she loved to have her family around and she was always the mom of the neighborhood. She was know as Betty or Donna k and momma K.She is survived by her children, Daniel W. Davis, Jr., Karen Bockover,  Jimbo Davis, Robbie Davis, Loretta Gaines and Mary Brown; grandchildren, Ashley Leach, Sandy Aguilar, Brittany Price, Robbie Davis Jr, Raymond Stader, Jessie Stader, Danielle Phillips, Daymond Davis, JR, Keith Brown, Tobias Brown; great grandchildren, Ryan, Emma, Makayla, Adin, Kensley, Abigale, Eggsy, Aubery, Finnley, Wesley, Athena, Rosa, Andrea, Kiara, Aries, and Danica; siblings, Reese Bailey, Patricia Bailey, Mary Darlene Bailey, Sharon Bailey, Pamela Bailey, Rita Bailey, Butch Bailey, David Lee Bailey.She was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel W. Davis; and several siblings.Visitation will be from 11:30 AM until 1:00 PM on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at G. H. Herrmann East Streeet Funeral Home, 1505 S. East Street, Indianapolis, IN.  A graveside service will be conducted at 1:30 PM on Thursday, May 25th at New Crown Cemetery where she will be laid to rest.Please share memories, photographs and online condolences with the family.

Obituary Preview: Caleb Timothy Clingaman, 18, of Greenwood, passed away in an accident on the island of Guam on January 31, 2023. He was born on February 6, 2004 to Bruce and Monette Clingaman.Caleb graduated from High School, 2022 from Ignite Christian Academy.Caleb had ambitions to attend Purdue University then become a pilot for the US Coast Guard. He was fearless, adventurous, humorous, and dramatic. He preached from the Bible with passion and was a big giver. He played piano for church and sang in the youth choir. His love for his family was evident. Caleb and his family have been members at Southeast Baptist Tabernacle since 2014 and was serving alongside his parents as missionaries to the military in Guam. Caleb knelt before the King of Kings and could stand before anyone. He was memorizing this Bible passage before his passing: 2 Cor 12:9 - "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."Caleb left behind his Parents Bruce and Monette Clingaman, brothers Jonathan (26) and David (23), sister Sophia (15).Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 16, 2023 from 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Southeast Baptist Tabernacle, 6835 Shelbyville Road, Indianapolis, IN 46237. Funeral Service will be conducted on Friday, February 17, 2023 at 1:00pm with additional visitation from 12pm - service time.He will be laid to rest at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Greenwood, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be made to: Southeast Baptist Tabernacle, Indianapolis. Please share memories, photographs and online condolences with the family at www.ghherrmann.comIf I knew... If I knew it would be the last time That I’d see you fall asleep, I would tuck you in more tightlyand pray the Lord, your soul to keep. If I knew it would be! the last time that I see you walk out the door, I would! give you a hug and kissand call you back for one more. If I knew it would be the last time I’d hear your voice lifted up in praise, I would videotape each action and word,so I could play them back day after day. If I knew it would be the last time, I could spare an extra minute to stop and say “I love you,”instead of assuming you would KNOW, I do. If I knew it would be the last time I would be there to share your day, Well, I’m sure you’ll have so many more,so I can let just this one slip away. For surely there’s always tomorrow to make up for an oversight, and we always get a second chanceto make everything just right. There will always be another day to say “I love you,” And certainly, there’s another chance to say our “Anything I can do?” But just in case I might be wrong, and today is all I get, I’d like to say how much I love youand I hope we never forget. Tomorrow is not promised to anyone, young or old alike, And today may be the last chanceyou get to hold your loved one tight. So if you’re waiting for tomorrow, why not do it today? For if tomorrow never comes, you’ll surely regret the day, That you didn’t take that extra time for a smile, a hug, or a kiss and you were too busy to grant someone,what turned out to be their one last wish. So hold your loved ones close today, and whisper in their ear, Tell them how much you love them and that you’ll always hold them dear Take time to say “! I’m sorry,” “Please forgive me,” “Thank you,” or “It’s okay! .” And if tomorrow never comes,you’ll have no regrets about today. -SIDNEY W. JOHNSTON

Obituary Preview: Harry R. Short, Sr, 81, of Indianapolis, passed away on October 17, 2022. He was born on September 29, 1941 in Indianapolis, IN to the late Amburs and Katherine (Piper) Short.Harry attended Harry E. Wood High School. Harry was the proprietor of H & S Painting/auction owner. He loved horse racing, fishing, the outdoors and wildlife.Harry is survived by his son, Harry R. (Brandi) Short Jr; grandchildren, Courtney, Jessie, and Abbie Short; and sister, Betty Short Wilson.He was preceded in death by brothers, Don, Bill, Les, and George Short.Arrangements have been entrusted to G. H. Herrmann Madison Avenue Funeral Home, 5141 Madison Avenue, Indianapolis, IN.Please share memories, photographs and online condolences with the family.

Obituary Preview: Daiquon “Dai-Dai” Dupree was born in Indianapolis,Indiana on April 11, 2002. During elementary years, Daiquon attended Indianapolis Public Schools. Daiquon spent majority of his elementary childhood playing basketball for School #34. Daiquon won a lot of trophies while being apart of the Garfield Park Leagues youth basketball team.In 7th grade “Dai-Dai” went on to attend Crispus Attucks Medical Magnet High School. During his educational career at CAMMHS, Daiquon was apart of the basketball team, drum-line and band. While attending CAMMHS, Dai-Dai gained many many friends due to his infectious smile and his genuine personality. Daiquon was also able to balance both school and working at McDonalds during his final years of high school. Daiquon graduated from CAMMHS in 2020. After making the decision that college wasn’t for him, Daiquon went on to pursue a career as an Order picker team member at the Amazon Fulfillment Center.Daiquon’s hobbies and interest include extreme gaming, playing drums, basketball, gym sessions, checking up on his loved ones, sporting athletic wear, and watching tv. Daidai was always known for being a gamer. Growing up, there were times you wouldn’t see Dai- Dai and it was because he was locked away in the room playing his game. Sometimes the only time that you knew he was home was because you would hear him yell “LET’S GO!” The older he got, the more his love for video games increased.Daiquon enjoyed Marvel cartoons. He would binge watch movies and tv shows all day, only coming out to raid the fridge. He loved his $1 steak tacos on Tuesday and whole pizzas from Little Caesar’s. Once he moved on his own with his best friend Dakariye', his moms house became his grocery store and fast food restaurant. He’d take it upon himself to sneak in the house while everyone was in their room sleeping. Then, he would call his mom just to let her know that he completed his mission.Daiquon was a young man with a heart of gold. He took the things around him and used it as fuel to not only motivate himself, but others to be the best they can be. He was caring, funny, playful and a mentor to a lot of youth around him. Daiquon would give anyone the shirt off his back just because that was the kind of person he was.Daiquon “Dai-Dai” Dupree passed away on Sunday, February 13th, 2022 at the age of 19 years old.Daiquon is predeceased by Eddie Richardson (uncle), Willa Mae Moore (great grandmother), and Roosevelt Griffin (paw-paw).

Obituary Preview: Hazel Skaggs of Indianapolis passed away on February 7th, 2022. She was born to James Ott Brown and Dorothy Wilhoite-Brown in Kentucky on April 7th, 1939.Hazel is survived by her sister Zane “Robin” Lambert of Indianapolis, IN and all her nieces and nephews. Hazel is preceded in death by her husband Richard “Dickie” Skaggs, daughter Norma Skaggs and grandson Robbie Skaggs, brothers Jimmy and Raymond Brown and her sisters Barbara O’Connor, Judy Perry and Sherry Smith.Hazel married Richard Skaggs her high school sweetheart and started their family on the southside of Indianapolis where they raised their daughter and grandson. Hazel worked for Mechanic’s Laundry as a Supervisor for over 40 years before she retired to make memories with her family.Although Hazel had many great accomplishments in her life, she was most proud to be the Matriarch of her family. As the eldest child of her siblings Hazel supported all of brothers and sisters throughout their lives and had an amazing impact on all her nieces and nephews. Hazel was truly an inspiration to everyone in her family, very well loved and will be missed tremendously.

Obituary Preview: Jeffery “Jeff” D. Owens, 61, of Indianapolis, passed away on February 7, 2022. He born on May 16, 1960 in Indianapolis. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at G.H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 South East Street, Indianapolis, with visitation from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

Obituary Preview: Claudia Lynn Adams, 74, of Reelsville, Indiana passed away on February 4, 2022. She was born on May 1, 1947 in French Lick, IN to the late Oscar and Muriel (Palmer) Allen.Claudia “Lynn” worked for Western Electric as an assembler for 15 years. She loved her dogs, horses and all animals.She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Leon Edward Adams; son, Leon Earl (Bennetha) Adams; four grandchildren, Lydia, DJ, Heather and Noel; four great grandchildren, Darbi, Kayli, Makenzie and Trey; sister, Debbie Straight.She was preceded in death by her daughter, Alicia Brown and her parents.Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at G. H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 South East Street, Indianapolis, IN. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 10, 2022 at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest at Washington Park East Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Lavonne Kay Donath Smith, 75, of Indianapolis, passed away on January 15, 2022. She was born on July 6, 1946 in Philippi, WV to the late Edward and Madeline Donath. She will be remembered for her love of crocheting for charity and her love of dogs! She always loved spotting a Cardinal because that always had a meaning of someone special or a special event in her or her family’s life. She also enjoyed watching and attracting the hummingbirds outside her window.Survivors include her husband Gaylon Wayne Smith, her 4 daughters; Debra S. Davis Ottinger (William), Kathryn L. Schneider, Rebecca M. Herman, and Bernadette R. LaChar (Don), nine grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Vincent David Davis, her grandchild Dominique LaChar and her son-in-law Larry Herman. Visitation will be on Thursday , January 20, 2022 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at G.H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 South East Street, Indianapolis, IN.

Obituary Preview: Kay Kise, 74, of Indianapolis, passed away on January 8, 2022. She was born on April 15, 1947 in Madison Heights, Michigan to the late William and Rosetta F Schultz-Haselette.Kay passed away in her home surrounded by the ones she loved. She was a high school graduate from Madison Heights High School. Kay was a stay at home mom to her two sons ,a wife to her husband, Donald Kise of over 50 years and also known as mamaw to many children who she loved and looked after. Many of the kids will always relate her house to standing on the wall!Kay loved collectible frogs and oh, did she have so many of them. Her favorite things to do were cooking, crocheting, dancing to rock n roll and the oldies. She was passionate when it came yard selling. She was always where the deals were at. She always had a helping hand, and helped others more than she helped herself sometimes. She volunteered at Holy Cross for over 10 years known as the bread lady.Kay’s love was very powerful, when she loved you, she loved with her whole heart. She was loved by everyone that she came in contact with. She was very strong willed and could be as ornery as they come sometimes. Kay is survived by her sons; Donnie and Charles Kise; Bonus children, Marty Corpuz , Tina Butler and Kevin Smith;brother, William Schultz and sister, Rosemary Walker (David); her grand daughters; Kayla Brantley (Jordan ) and Bryanna Kise;Grandsons ; Donnie, Billy, Christopher, Chandler, and Jonathan Kise; one great grand daughter ; Allyanna Brantley; and her life long best friend of many many years: Mary Jane Benge; as well as many nieces, nephews, & cousins. She is proceeded in death by her beloved husband,mother, father; grand daughter, Allyssa Corpuz; and daughter in law, Kristy KiseArrangements have been entrusted to G.H. Herrmann, 1505 S. East Street, Indianapolis, IN.

Obituary Preview: David DeWayne Massey, Sr., 61, of Indianapolis, passed away on January 8, 2022. He was born on January 14, 1960 in Indianapolis, to Birchard Massey and Martha (Loveall) Massey.Survivors include his wife, Teresa (Wimmer) Massey; children, Sabrina Massey, David Massey Jr., Birchard Massey, Tina Poe and Joey Wimmer; 6 grandchildren and a brother, Bruce Massey.Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, January 21, 2022 at G.H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 South East Street, Indianapolis, with visitation from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

Obituary Preview: Timothy (Tim) Schalk, 63Timothy Earl Schalk died at 11:25 pm on December 25, 2021, succumbing to liver disease at IU Health University Hospital in Indianapolis. Tim passed away peacefully with both his son and daughter by his side. He is survived by his children, Donald Zachary Schalk (Hannah Calkins) and Carolyn Kiana Schalk; two granddaughters, Fiona Lilias Schalk and Rhiannon Rose Schalk; and siblings Susan Freed (David), Joseph Schalk (Brenda), Anita Davidson (Don) and Michael Schalk (Shirley). He was preceded in death by his parents William “Bill” and Carolyn (Cook) Schalk.Tim was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on November 7, 1958. The third of five children, Tim was part of a large family. Bill and Carolyn, originally from Anderson, Indiana, returned to the state with their children when Tim was nine years old. He lived out the rest of his childhood in New Market and Ladoga.Tim attended Southmont High School, where he excelled at football, wrestling, and track & field before graduating in 1977. His passion for athletics would extend throughout his life as both a fan and youth sports coach.Tim spent one year at Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana, before ultimately finishing his undergraduate studies with a Bachelor’s of Science from Indiana University’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs in 1989. While his time at Indiana State was short, it left a lasting impact on his life. During that first year, he met Susan Mowery(-Schalk), and the two would marry from 1981 - 2012. They moved from Terre Haute to Indianapolis, where they raised two children and called the historic neighborhood of Lockerbie Square home for more than 20 years.Professionally, Tim built a successful career powered by his passion for hard work and public service spanning more than three decades. He spent his early career as a manager in the restaurant industry, where he relished the fast pace and staff camaraderie. His career path shifted towards affordable housing development when he completed his bachelor’s degree. He built experience working for the City of Indianapolis and the Mapleton-Fall Creek Development Corporation before launching his own independent consultancy, Community Development Connection, inc. in 1995. Over more than nine years as President of CDC, inc., Tim helped to develop affordable housing in communities around the state of Indiana. Tim would go on to work for several other community development nonprofits, eventually managing a national portfolio comprising thousands of affordable housing units.While Tim took great pride in his work, he also prioritized his family life. He was a generous and engaged father to Zach (born in 1988) and Kiana (born in 1997), serving as coach, chef, chauffeur, tutor, and enthusiastic supporter through countless games, recitals, performances, and late-night homework sessions. And despite limitations imposed by his illness and the COVID-19 pandemic, he aspired to embrace a similar role with his two young granddaughters.In Tim’s 63 short years, he traveled the world from Ladoga, Indiana, to the Greek Island of Lesvos and many places in between; helped to house countless people; raised a family; and never met a beach he couldn’t sink his toes into. Tim leaves a legacy of love, public service, and countless joyful memories for those who knew him best.In honor of Tim’s love for a good Race Day cookout, the family will hold a celebration of Tim’s life on Sunday, May 29 (additional details forthcoming).

Obituary Preview: Nancy Marie Long, 61 of Indianapolis passed away on December 24th ,2021. She was born on December 9th, 1960 in Nashville, TN. She loved spending time with her family and friends. Her children were her pride and joy, her granddaughters were the light of her world. You could always find her reading a book and drinking her coffee. She had a green thumb and her Garden was her “Happy Place”.She was an amazing mother and grandmother. She had a special bond with each of her children and Granddaughters. She was a best friend and loving mother to all her children. But her grandchildren had a more special place in her heart. She loved spending time with her family. It was the simple things in life to her. Just having cook outs and chasing the kids around the backyard. She was a kid at heart. Always making everyone around her smile and laugh. Her smile just lite up any room up when she stepped in.She was a beautiful woman inside and out. She would do anything for anyone if she could, seeing you smile just made her heart overflow with joy. She opened her home up to many adopted children over the years. You always felt safe if you were in her presences. She had a Heart of Gold. She was Loved by many and will be Truly Missed.Survivors include her children James T. Long, Ashley I. Brooks and Alisha D. (Andres) Vazquez; Granddaughters Autumn, Aerith and Mila; Also, her best friend /life partner Bennett T. Hoppes and Step daughters Deanna Culvahouse and Rhonda Blankenship. Her siblings Sharon, Amy, Kenny and Sam and Leonard.She was preceded in death by Papa Joe and Granny Irene and brothers Tommy and John.

Obituary Preview: Marshall Roger Moore Sr., 74, of Indianapolis, passed away on December 19, 2021. Born on August 6, 1947 in Indianapolis, IN to the late Hobart Moore and Ruth Moore.He is survived by his children, Marshall Roger Moore, Jr. and Mary Moore; and 3 grandchildren.He was a veteran of the United States Army and worked for CMP Cold Metal Products.

Obituary Preview: Charles Henry (POPS) Stewart Jr., 74, of Indianapolis, passed away on December 5, 2021. He was born on November 26, 1947 in Bethpage, TN to the late Charles Henry Stewart Sr. and Mary Catherine Stewart. He graduated from NorthWest High School. Pops then retired from Numerical Productions in 2007. As we all know Pops had a passion for music, to his many Elvis shows back to just staying home and enjoying Football and Wrestling. He was a member of the band Mystery Train. His survivors include his wife, Susan, his two sons Charles and Justin, his daughter in law Michelle, his brothers: Ernie, Jim Bo, David, John, and lastly his grandchildren: Aislin, Brianna, Mackenzie, Destiny, Jacob, Brooklynn, Levi, Justin Jr, Braydin, and Great Grandchild Ayla. Charles was preceded in death by his parents Mary Stewart and Charles Riley and his Daughter Brook Stewart. Visitation will be on Sunday, December 12, from 2:00PM - 6:00 PM at G.H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 South East Street, Indianapolis, IN. Funeral Service will be conducted on Monday at 1:00 PM. Burial will be at New Crown Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to The G.H Herrmann (317) 787-7211 or the GoFund me page https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-put-charles-h-stewart-jr-pops-to-rest?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1 Please share memories, photographs and online condolences with the family at www.ghherrmann.com

Obituary Preview: Steve A. Tapscott, 73, of Indianapolis, passed away on December 5, 2021. He was born on September 17, 1948.Per Steve’s wishes there will be no services. He will be laid to rest at Washington Park East Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Please check back for full obituary.

Obituary Preview: Ruth E. Purvis, 83, of Indianapolis, passed away on November 23, 2021. She was born on February 25,1938 in Martins Ferry, OH to the late William and Shirley Hadsell. She earned her high school diploma at the age of 42 setting a good example for her children and grandchildren. Although she never worked outside the home, she did work extremely hard raising 8 children. Her hobbies writing, reading her bible but most of all hugging everyone she met. She was a member of True Gospel Assembly Church. She was preceded in death by her husband Marion Sr., her children Marion JR., William, Lisa and Gary her sister Shirley and brother Bill. She is survived by her children Roy, Kim, Jerry and Joy, her brother Joe and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Visitation will be on Thursday, December 2, 2021 from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM at G.H. Herrmann East Street Funeral Home, 1505 South East Street, Indianapolis, IN, with the service at 1:00 PM. She will be laid to rest at Washington Park North Cemetery. Please share memories, photographs and online condolences with the family at www.ghherrmann.com