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Miami County decked the halls in 2021
Winners announced for Celebration of Lights, 2021 First Place Business Display DeRozier’s Bakery took first place in the Best Business Display category for the Celebration of Lights contest. Second place went to 2 Days Boutique and third place went to Gigi’s Design Works.Best Large Residential and Best Small Residential Display winners are on Page 2. Photo by Michelle Boswell
United Way of Miami County meets, exceeds goal for 2021 By United Way of Miami County "At United Way, we have the belief that we are a community asset—owned by the community, led by volunteers, and managed by staff," said Debi Wallick, CEO, United Way of Miami County. "I'm humbled by everyone that came together to lend their time, talent, and treasures during a time when it's not easy to do, and the needs of the community are incredibly significant. With the help of several last-minute donations, the United Way of Miami County surpassed its $160,000 goal raising $178,493 for its 2021 Fall
Vol. 3, No. 1
Campaign. While donations began coming in slowly while touching hundreds across the Miami County area, United Way leaders fought to maintain the social services programs that depend on those dollars. “What a fantastic community we live in. We see first-hand how genuinely generous people are. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made a gift to our 2021 campaign. We've all seen the challenges people are facing during the pandemic. We called our community, and so many answered that call. The generosity we witnessed this year was phenomenal," said Wallick.
Proudly Serving Miami County
"It's a major relief, and it's very empowering to know that we were able to reach that goal," United Way President Morgan Gold said. "We raised $177,000 earlier in 2020 while still raising funds for our Covid Relief Fund." This year's campaign was chaired by Carrie Young, along with her division chairs: Brooke Robertson, Giles Hoagland, Kathy Brehmer, Becky Wright, Amy Million, Sam Watkins, Jamey Callane, Kenny Hanson, Fran Harding, Mary Brown, Susan Stanley. Carrie also had sevSee United, Page 2
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January 5, 2022
First Place - Best Large Residential Display
The Best Large Residential Display was awarded to Bryan Wilkinson, Mexico. The display was so large, it had to be photographed in two parts. Second Place went to Bill Oaf, Bunker Hill. Third place
went to Leroy Burdine, Peru. Photos by Michelle Boswell
For the latest COVID-19 information, go to IN.gov.
First Place - Best Small Residential Display
HAUL-ALL 260-330-1802 • 260-571-2778 The Best Small Residential Display was awarded to Diana Hershey, West Second Street, Peru. Second place went to Melynda Gower on
United
Madison Avenue, Peru. Third place went to Dave and Laura Douglass, W 500 S, Peru. Photo by Michelle Boswell
continued from Page 1
eral other volunteers that helped with the campaign blitz. Young said, “United Way passing its goal bodes well for local families and philanthropy, but it also speaks favorably about Miami County's economy." United Way's annual campaign focuses on the three core issues of health, education, and financial stability. Funds are also directed toward strategies to end family homelessness, reduce barriers to employment, bridge the digital divide, and meet urgent needs in the community. United Way of Miami County fundraising supports eight nonprofits and three
initiatives in Miami County. These programs are directly responsible for providing subsidized childcare, mental health services, after-school programs, and housing solutions, among other outcomes in Miami County. Further, United Way supports a volunteer platform and the 211 Free First Call for Help, which experienced a 200% increase in call volume during the pandemic. Thanks to your contribution, United Way will continue to bond people and resources together to build a stronger and healthier community.
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Debi Wallick, Executive Director for United Way of Miami County uses the goal thermometer to show their goal was reached for 2021. Photo provided.
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January 5, 2022
105 W.Third St. | Peru 765.473.6674
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Obituaries Donna Marie Tyre, 87
Alan D. Adkins, 68
Betty Jayne (Shank) Bobo, Baker, Brown, 94
Marlee Fishback, 97
Donna Marie Tyre was ushered into the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021, after a brief illness. She was an active member of the Peru Grace Brethren Church. She dearly loved her family, church family and God’s chosen people. Donna was born March 21, 1934, to the late William and Mary (Warner) Nickels. She married Robert D. Tyre in 1959, and he preceded her in death. She is survived by her children; Mark Tyre of Peru, Lisa (Tyre) Patton of Peru, and Teresa (Tyre) Perkins of Rochester; grandchildren, Jay and Eliza Patton, Nathan Patton, Tim, and Mallory Weathers; great grandchildren, Ava and Ruby; and sister, Wanda Sue Nickels of Logansport. Donna is preceded in death by her parents; husband; still born daughter, Brenda Lee Tyre; brothers, Jim Nickels, Bill Nickels, and Richard Nickels; sisters, Marjorie Baker, Delores Titus, Jeanette Towe, Rosemary Cattin, Betty Saunders, and Bonnie Miller. Visitation was held Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Peru Grace Brethren Church, 430 South Broadway, Peru, Indiana. Funeral Service was held at the Church Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022, at 10 a.m. with pastor Dave Jodry officiating. Visitation was held one hour prior to the funeral service. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to Gideons International. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Alan D. Adkins passed away Dec. 28, 2021, at Dukes Memorial Hospital in the presence of his family. He was born Sept. 7, 1953, to Merrill S. Adkins and Ruby A. (Perry) Scot in Coshocton, Ohio. He married Belerma (Sanjur) Adkins Nov. 25, 1983. Alan retired from the United States Air Force in 1993 and from Chrysler Corporation in 2008. He was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church. While in the military he was deployed to England and Panama. Alan was an animal lover and his hobbies included SCUBA diving, woodwork, traveling, motorcycles, hunting, fishing, and ham radio. He was also a CPR instructor, volunteer EMT, and transported patients to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children. In addition to being a Shriner, he was a member of the Masonic Lodge, International Legion of Honor, VFW, and American Legion. Alan is survived by his wife, three children Daralene, Thomas, and Jonathan, sisters Wyona and Illa Kay, cousins Terry Adkins Kline and Ronald Adkins, and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Vivian and brother David. Any contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society or ASPCA. Visitation will be held at FlowersLeedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana, Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home Friday, Jan. 7, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Betty Jayne (Shank) Bobo, Baker, Brown was born in Peru, June 25, 1927, and passed away Dec. 27, 2021. She was the daughter of Benjamin Franklin (Frank) Shank and Blanch (Hatfield) Shank. She had two brothers Garl, Bill her twin brother, two sisters Maxine and Bernice. Betty has two daughters Charlene and Roy of Chili, Patricia of Peru, and a son Charles of Florida. Betty has seven grand kids and 27 great grand kids, and 20 great great grand kids. One grand kid is deceased, and two great grand kids are deceased. Betty was a member of Oakdale Baptist Church and lived in Peru all her life. Betty’s mother passed when she and her twin brother were eight years old, and her sisters helped raise them. A descendant of Hatfield’s and McCoy’s, this woman loved her family but with all of her 85 lbs., she could be a devil in disguise if you pissed her off. Born in 1927 and married at a young age, she has two beautiful daughters and a son. When her first husband left her during the war for another woman, she worked for 25 cents an hour to try and make ends meet. She ended up having to send her children to foster care. Fast forward a few years and she remarried and was able to get her children back. Fast forward again and she lost her second husband because of a blood clot. She moved in with our family for a short time while, she built a small house in Peru, Indiana. She remarried. Several years later she lost her third husband. Time flies forward, and at 94 years old what a hell of a ride she has lived in this world. We love you to the moon and back, we understand you’re tired and ready to go home, we hope whatever or whomever you are waiting on comes soon so the suffering ends-God is waiting with open arms to bring you home. Visitation was held at FlowersLeedy Funeral Home, 105 West 3rd Street, Peru, Indiana, Dec. 31, 2021, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The funeral service followed at 2 p.m. with pastor Julie Walker from Chili Baptist Church officiating. Burial took place at Mount Hope Cemetery in Peru, Indiana. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Marlee Fishback, 97, of Peru, passed away at 10:10 p.m., Friday, Dec. 24, 2021, at her residence. She was born in Peru Oct. 2, 1924, the daughter of Herman and Mary Bowers Welke. Marlee married Albert Fishback March 26, 1944, and he preceded her in death Dec. 27, 2010. Marlee was a 1942 graduate of Peru High School and a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church. Her mission in life was her family and it was her role as family matriarch that most will remember her. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and loved her family unconditionally. Surviving are daughters Lee Ann Spranger and her husband Harold of Ft. Wayne and Michelle Darling and her husband Michael of Waynesville, Ohio; sons Kevin Fishback of Peru and Mark Fishback and his wife Sharon Suwanee, Georgia; a sister Sara Welke of Peru; grandchildren Andrew (Roxanne) Fishback, Megan (Ben) Pastian, Krista (Michael) Thena, Tracey (Brian) Hepner and Lindsey (Jonathan) Blessing; great-grandchildren Ashley (Taylor) Miller, Mitchel (Maddison) Spranger, Lauren (Philip) Girard, Haley Pastian and Charlotte Blessing and Katelyn (Nic) Mathieson and greatgreatgrandchildren Blakelyn Spranger, Felicity Girard, A service celebrating the life of Marlee Fishback was held at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 181 W. Main St., Peru with pastor Kenneth Greenwald officiating. Burial was in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery. Family and friends gathered from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., Friday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. John’s Lutheran Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home, Peru.
Roaten Jackson Nunn, Jr., 83 Roaten Jackson Nunn Jr. passed away Monday, Dec. 27, 2021, at his residence. He was born Oct. 4, 1938, to Roaten Jackson Nunn and Mary Elizabeth (Elliott) Nunn. He married Marcia A. (Hoagland) Nunn and she survives. Roaten retired from General Tire as a factory worker. He was also a member of Grace Pointe Community Church. In addition to his wife, Roaten is survived by his son, Ron Nunn; daughter, Michelle (Norman) Scroggin; nine grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren;
a brother, Robert Nunn; and sisters, Marie Scott, Betty Cox, Eileen Schoolcraft, and Brenda Nunn. He is preceded in death by his parents; a son, Randy Nunn; brothers, Donald Nunn and Roger Nunn; and sisters, Hazel Corvin, Ruth Nunn, and Shirley Nunn. A celebration of life was held at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana, Monday, Jan. 3, 2022, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with pastor Dan Keaton officiating. Burial took place at Ever-Rest Memorial Park in Logansport, Indiana at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
More obituaries can be found on Page 4
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January 5. 2022
Obituaries Judith A. Pullman, 83
Johnie M. Jackson, 58
Judith A. Pullman, 83, of Peru, passed away Monday, Dec. 20, 2021, at Dukes Memorial Hospital. She was born in Peru Sept. 23, 1938, to Lewis Harold and Gladys Irene (Ralston) Laudenschlager. Judy worked as a cashier at Kroger. She enjoyed crafts and watching movies. She is survived by her daughter, Wendy Pullman of Peru; as well as brother Ron (Nancy) Laudenschlager of Peru, and sisters Sue (Glenn) Homes of Goshen, and Janet Staller of Peru. A memorial service was held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021, at EverRest Memorial Park Chapel in Logansport. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family to assist with funeral expense. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Johnie M. Jackson, 58, of Wabash, Indiana, passed away at 1:20 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021, at Parkview Hospital, Ft. Wayne. He was born in Warsaw, Indiana, Nov. 23, 1963, the son of John and Zefie Conley Jackson. Johnie married Misty Hawkins Sept. 30, 2017, and she survives. Johnie was employed at Ford Meter Box as a Grinder for 23 years. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family. He didn’t want to be anywhere without his wife, Misty. Johnie was a lover of animals particularly his Yorkie ‘Mia.’ Surviving in addition to his wife, Misty, is his mother, Zefie Jackson of Akron, Indiana; sons Johnie Light of Wabash, Indiana, and Zachary Jackson of Florida; daughters Misti Jackson of Lagro, Indiana, and Shanda Enyart of Lagro, Indiana; a stepson James Eltzroth of Noblesville, Indiana; sisters Shirley Miller of Akron, Indiana, and Pam Schaaf of Akron, Indiana, and grandchildren Briley, Zack, and Iris. A service celebrating the life of Johnie M. Jackson was held at 3 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021, at the LairdEddy Funeral Home, 201 N. Main St., Amboy, Indiana. Burial was in Park Lawn Cemetery, Amboy, Indiana. Family and friends gathered from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday at the Laird-Eddy Funeral Home.
Joy Helen (Wagner) Porter, 92 Joy Helen (Wagner) Porter, 92, of Peru, passed away at 3:10 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 23, 2021, at Miller’s Merry Manor, Peru. She was born in New York, New York, July 4, 1929, the daughter of Herbert and Helen Miller Smith. Joy married Kurt Wagner in New York March 17, 1945, and he preceded her in death in September 1995. Joy was a member of the St. Charles Catholic Church and the Altar and Rosary Society. She was a homemaker at heart and former travel agent. Surviving are her children Barbara Wagner of Arizona, Pamela Wagner of California, Kathy Kendric of California, Claudia Naegele of California, Kurt (Lyn) Wagner of Minnesota and Mary (Bob) Hilliker of California; grandchildren Susan Good, Russell Wagner, Melissa Church, Daniel Gilbert, Kayla Kendric, Corey Kendric, Michael Naegele, Christina Naegele, Kevin Wagner and Kathlyn Wagner. Joy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and a grandson, Darrell. A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating the life of Joy Helen Porter will be held at 11 a.m., Friday Jan. 7, 2022, at the St. Charles Catholic Church, 58 W. Fifth St., Peru with Rev. Adam Mauman officiating. Burial will be in the St. Charles Catholic Cemetery. Family and friends will gather from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022, at the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home, 84 W. Main St. Peru. There will be a Prayer Service at 7 p.m., Thursday at the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made through the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home to St. Charles Catholic Church.
More obituaries, Page 5
Deborah Jeanne Collins, 59 Deborah Jeanne Collins of Peru, Indiana, passed away peacefully at her home Friday, Dec. 24, 2021, at the age of 59 after a courageous battle with cancer. Deborah Collins was born in Laredo, Texas, Dec. 12, 1962, to Elida and Pat Collins. She is survived by her four children Angela Leinberger, Christopher Leinberger, Jessica Davis and Sarah Copeland all of Peru, Indiana and her eight grandchildren Isaiah, Anthony, Brayden, Kassandra, Dylan, Ameliah, Layken, and Hazel. She is also survived by her parents Elida and Pat Collins of Clovis, New Mexico; siblings Linda Coiner and Chickie Henderlite also of Clovis, New Mexico, Denise Collins of Sarasota, Florida, Jennifer Collins of Dallas, Texas and Houston Collins of Seattle, Washington. Deborah was the granddaughter of the late Roy and Clarine Collins of Clovis, New Mexico and Antonia and Bartolo Garcia of Laredo, Texas. Deborah graduated from Clovis High School in 1981 and attended Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico. She began modeling in her teens and attended Barbizon School of Modeling in Dallas, Texas. Deborah often accompanied her father, now a retired cattle rancher, to brand cattle and help around the ranch. In her mid-twenties, she moved to Indiana where she had many creative pursuits including cabinet making, painting, and making decorative concrete statues and lawn ornaments.
Many of Deborah’s handmade lawn ornaments, angels and birdbaths can be seen in neighborhoods across Peru. One proud moment Deborah experienced was when she was featured in the Peru Tribune in an article entitled “Local Woman Embraces the Arts.” Deborah said that she always wanted to be a missionary until someone told her she could be a missionary in her own backyard. This mindset inspired Deborah to start writing Christian songs at the age of 23 and she went on to write several hundred songs and lyrics throughout her lifetime. Deborah also taught herself American Sign Language (ASL) so she could translate the songs performed at her church to the congregation. "Use every talent God gave you to heal your part of the earth He created," was Deborah's favorite quote, which she not only embodied in her poetry and songwriting but in her many other talents and hobbies including singing, crocheting, knitting, sewing, hiking, bird watching, sign language and baking her grandmother Clarine’s favorite fudge and candy recipes during the holidays. A humble friend to all, Deborah will be remembered for her beautiful singing voice, silly humor, her kind heart, her devotion to her children, her ready smile, and her devotion to Christ. She will be missed by everyone who knew her. A private graveside ceremony will take place in Clovis, New Mexico. A celebration of life memorial will take place in Peru, Indiana at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
William Paul “Bill” Wolfe, Jr., 93 Our hero, William Paul "Bill" Wolfe Jr., Peru, passed peacefully from his 93-year earthly life Thursday Dec. 23, 2021, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne holding the hand of his oldest grandson, William Paul Wolfe IV. He was born July 16, 1928, to William Paul and Edna Marie (Prather) Wolfe Sr. In 1946, he began following the footsteps of his father and went to work for Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad in Muncie as a telegraph operator. In 1948, he joined the U.S. Army where he attained the rank of Corporal. He served in the occupation of Korea, later stationing in Leavenworth, Kansas, where he ran a telecommunications office until 1950 when he was honorably discharged and awarded the Good Conduct Medal. Immediately afterward, he went to work for the Wabash Railroad, which later became Norfolk & Western and subsequently Norfolk & Southern, where he retired as a dispatcher in 1990. On Nov. 25, 1951, he married Barbara Jean Summers in Montpelier, Ohio. She preceded him in death Jan. 16, 2014.
Bill was a loving father, husband, and friend, always putting the needs of others ahead of his own. In 1963, he and his younger brother Reginald Wolfe founded Wolfe's Sunoco in Mexico, which Reggie continues to operate today. Bill enjoyed woodworking, building beautiful furniture for the family. After retirement, he turned his hobby into a small business building picnic tables and Adirondack chairs. He volunteered at Helping Hands and Meals on Wheels for many years. He attended Mexico Baptist Church and First Church of the Brethren. He was also a life member and Past Exalted Ruler of Peru Elks Lodge #365. Bill was predeceased by one son, William Paul Wolfe III, two sisters, Patsy Plaue and Barb Beachler, and a brother, Courtney Wolfe. Keeping his memory are one son, Michael Wolfe (Diane), Macy; three daughters, Gina P. Lopez, Peru; Julie A. White (Carl), Peru; and Amanda Redman, Peru: daughter-in-law Brenda Wolfe, Peru; one sister, Sharon Staller (Jerry), Garrett, two brothers, Reginald Wolfe (Karla), Mexico, and Ronnie Wolfe (Linda), Fort Wayne; Thirteen grandchildren, William Paul Wolfe IV (Christine) Cambridge City, Jeffrey W. Wolfe, Indianapolis, Noah Wolfe (Trinda) Weston, Missouri, Joseph Wolfe, Delphi, Amber M. (Kenny) Wheetley, Macy, Brandi Turner (Lawrence), Peru, Christian Wolfe, Macy, Melissa Rood (Robert), Peru,
Zachary (Stefanie) White, Macy, April Lopez, Peru, Tony Lopez, Indianapolis, Gipsy Redman, Indianapolis, Kalika Redman, Chicago; three step-grandchildren Dawn Stapleton (Jessie Sons), Cynthia Elliott (James), and Anthony Stapleton (Jen), Peru; Great-Grandchildren Anne Marie Wolfe, Tommy Wolfe, Jordan Wolfe, Quinn Wolfe, Lorelei Wolfe, Hannah Grismore, Reece Grismore, Abby Rood, Robert Rood, Rebecca Rood, Savannah Rood, JC White, Benjamin White, Levi White, Hailey Wolfe, Mackenzie Wolfe, Brady Turner, Toby Turner, Audrey Turner, Jase Wolfe, Carter Hopper, and Maci Durham; step great-grandchildren, Nicholas Stapleton, Dalton Church, Cheyenne Sons, Nevaeh Elliott, Angelina Elliott, Hannah Mueller, Hannah Garcia, Emily Stapleton and Kyndal Wheetley; one great-great-grandchild, Charlee Rood; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends. A celebration of his amazing life was held at the Mexico Baptist Church with military rites provided by the Miami County Military Rites Unit. Family and friends called just prior to the service. A private graveside service will be held later at Ever Rest Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Helping Hands. Eikenberry Eddy Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
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January 5, 2022
Obituaries Donnetta H. Hobbs, 80
William “Bill” Hand, 98
Jason Michael Johnston, 47
John Nester Oleszkewycz, 67
Donnetta H. Hobbs, 80, of Wabash, Indiana, formerly of rural Roann, Indiana, died at 3:23 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021, at Miller's Merry Manor East in Wabash. She was born June 3, 1941, in Rochester, Indiana, to Harold Chapman and Dorothy (Kindig) Pattee. Donnetta married Tony Earl Hobbs in Morganfield, Kentucky Dec. 5, 1969; he died April 20, 2011. She worked at the Wabash Wal-Mart 12 years. Donnetta lived in Columbia City, Indiana, for eight years and attended the Oak Grove Church of God in Columbia City. She volunteered at the Access in Wabash and was a driver for Meals on Wheels. She enjoyed playing Bingo, flower gardening, bird watching, collecting lighthouses, and was an avid Fort Wayne Tin Caps fan. Donnetta enjoyed working with Missions and was a Sunday School Teacher at Olive Branch Church of God many years. She is survived by six children, Deana (John) Carter of Columbia City, Dennis (Cathie) Harshman of Tampa, Florida, Daniel (Renee) Harshman of North Manchester, Indiana, Denise (DeWayne) Yocum of Macy, Indiana, Liz Hobbs of Wabash, and Karen (Kraig) Stuart of Wyoming, nine grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Lee Chapman, and her sister, Jeanette Chapman. Services will be held at a later date at the Olive Branch Church of God, rural Roann. Inurnment will be in the Roann Community Cemetery. Arrangements by Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service. Preferred memorial is the Access Youth Center. The memorial guest book for Donnetta may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
William “Bill” Hand, 98 of Peru passed away Saturday, Dec. 25, 2021, at his home. He was born in Peru May 14, 1923, to Charles and Alma Joy (Sawyer) Hand. He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Delight (Constable) Hand Aug. 15, 2021. They were married July 19, 1945. In their 76 years of marriage, they had four daughters, Tana Bondar of Peru, Pam Sampson (Gary) of Denver, Lynn Morris (John) of Peru and Becky Martin (Charles) of Elwood, eight grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 10 great great grandchildren. He served for six years in the U.S. Navy during WWII on the USS Aircraft Carrier WASP which was sunk at Guadalcanal Sept. 15, 1942. After returning to civilian life, he went to work on the N&W Railroad. In his younger years he enjoyed carpentry and yardwork. Bill had a great sense of humor, quick witted, always grateful, and never complained. He loved kids and animals. In his golden years his walk with the Lord deepened as he looked forward to his home in Heaven. With age comes a saying “If you can’t be good be nice.” Bill was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. There will be no visitation or service. Burial with Military Rites will be performed at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Bill’s online guestbook is available, and condolences can be shared with the family at www.riverviewfhperu.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Riverview Funeral Home, 421 W. Canal St., Peru.
Jason Michael Johnston, 47, of Peru passed away tragically in Walton Thursday, Dec. 23, 2021, doing what he loved to do as a logger and lumberjack. Born Nov. 20, 1974, in Peru, he was the son of Michael and Doris (Morgan) Johnston. He was a 1993 Maconaquah High School graduate. Jason enjoyed puzzles, fishing, and tinkering in his garage. Survivors include his son, Tyler Johnston of Kokomo, daughter, Janét Johnston of Peru, parents, Michael and Doris Johnston of Peru, brother, George Johnston (Dawn) of Florida, grandmother, Anna Marie Johnston of Peru and three nieces. He was preceded in death by grandparents, Virginia and J.P. Morgan and George Johnston. Visitation was from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021, at Riverview Funeral Home, 421 W. Canal St., Peru. A memorial service followed at 7 p.m. Jason’s online guestbook is available, and condolences can be shared with the family at www.riverviewfhperu.com.
John Nester Oleszkewycz, 67, Peru, passed away at 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, at his daughter's residence in Peru. Born June 7, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of Joseph Oleszkewycz and Olga “Lucy” Bojikowski Oleszkewycz. He was married to Mildred Aline McPherson Oleszkewycz who preceded him in death. Survivors include his children, Josie E. (James) Bailey, Peru; Jennifer Oleszkewycz (Frank Thorpe), Rochester, Indiana; and Jessica Bullinger (Terry Bidlack), Oakwood, Ohio; grandchildren, Zoey, Andrew, Raelynn, Rowan, Maylia, Malchi, Myriah, Kurtis, and Konnor; and siblings; Geroge Oleszkewycz, Peru, Indiana; Jean Hernandez (Hector Hernandez), Florida; Irene (Arizona) Anna Stumpf (Danny Stumpf, Sr.), Peru; and Zush Bontrager (Sam Bontrager), Peru, Indiana. Burial was at noon Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2021, at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Peru. Visitation was from 11 a.m. to Noon in the cemetery chapel prior to burial. McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, has been entrusted with arrangements.
Miami County residents named to Ball State University’s Dean’s List, Fall 2021 The following students were named to the Ball State University Dean’s list in the fall of 2021. Abby Bourne and Jayci Wimmer, both of Bunker Hill. Peru residents Rosalie Buckley, Zane Hanaway, Stevee Judy, Alexis Knight and Danielle Thomas. Is-
Peru man, son die in two-vehicle accident in Grant County At approximately 7:30 a.m. Dec. 24, 2021, the Grant County Sheriff ’s Department was notified of a twovehicle crash on State Road 37 at approximately 7300 South by an off-duty sheriff ’s detective in the area. The detective also responded. Upon the off-duty officer’s arrival, one of the vehicles involved, a small two door sedan, was on fire. The detective was able to enter the vehicle from the back window but was unable to remove the driver, the only visible occupant, from the vehicle due to the flames. Upon the fire department’s arrival, the vehicle fire was extinguished. After
the fire was extinguished, it was discovered that another victim was in the backseat area of the vehicle. The occupants of the vehicle were Braden Kaylor and his oneyear-old son. The detective then began to render aid to the occupants of the other vehicle involved. The front seat passenger of the second vehicle had to be extricated by the fire department and was flown from the scene to an Indianapolis area hospital. The other four occupants of the second vehicle were transported by ambulance to Ascension St. Vincent Mercy in Elwood where they were treated and re-
leased. The crash investigation showed that the small two door sedan was traveling southbound on S.R. 37 drove left of center into the path of the second vehicle, a 2006 GMC Yukon, that was Northbound on S.R. 37. This occurred at approximately 7300 South. The driver of the Yukon advised that she attempted to swerve away from the impact but was unable. Impact was to the front passenger side of the Yukon and the front passenger side of the small two door sedan. After impact, the Yukon came to a rest facing South along the West side of the roadway, the small two door sedan came to a rest off the road-
way to the East down an earth embankment facing Southeast with the driver’s side door pinned against a tree. The driver of the Yukon has been identified as Ashley Farrell, 32, Elwood. The front seat passenger was Thomas Farrell, 34, Elwood, and three children ages one, seven, and 12 years old from Elwood. Thomas Farrell had lower leg injuries. All else from the vehicle had only complaints of pain and minor bleeding. The deceased child was in a car seat, but it is unknown if Kaylor was wearing a seatbelt. An autopsy revealed Kaylor’s cause of death was blunt force trauma.
abella McBride, Denver. Marissa O'Blenis and Kelli Shawver, both of Amboy.
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January 5, 2022
Sports Mac girls handed loss from Caston at tourney Final Score Maconaquah: 48 Caston: 56
Peru boys win tourney; nineth consecutive time Final Score Peru: 58 Maconaquah: 47
Photos by Michelle Boswell
Local Sports Calendar Maconaquah Jan. 5 6 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Kokomo High School – Home 6 p.m. – Boys Freshman Basketball @ Delphi Community High School 7:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Kokomo High School Jan. 6 5:30 p.m. – Boys and Girls Varsity Swimming vs. Rochester High School Jan. 7 4 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity, coed and Boys Varsity Wrestling/Regional – Home Jan. 8 9 a.m. – Boys Junior Varsity, coed, and Boys Varsity Wrestling/Maconaquah Invitational – Home 6:15 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Wabash High School – Home 7:45 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Wabash High School – Home Jan. 10 5:30 p.m. – Girls and Boys Varsity Wrestling vs. Logansport High
School – Home 6 p.m. – Boys Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball vs. Southwood Jr./Sr. High School – Home 6 p.m. – Girls Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball @ Western Middle School 6:30 p.m. – Boys Freshman Basketball @ Northfield Jr./Sr. High School Jan. 11 6 p.m. – Coed, Boys Varsity and Boys Junior Varsity Wrestling vs. Peru High School – Home 6 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball @ Pioneer Jr./Sr. High School 7:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball @ Pioneer Jr./Sr. High School North Miami Jan. 6 6 p.m. – Boys Seventh Grade Basketball vs. Pioneer High School – Home 6 p.m. – Girls Seventh Grade Basketball @ Northfield High School 6 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Argos Community Jr./Sr. High
School – Home 7:15 p.m. – Boys Eighth Grade Basketball vs. Pioneer High School – Home 7:15 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Argos Community Jr./Sr. High School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Girls Eighth Grade Basketball @ Northfield High School Jan. 7 6:15 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball @ Manchester Jr./Sr. High School 7:45 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball @ Manchester Jr./Sr. High School Jan. 8 9 a.m. – Varsity Wrestling @ Norse Invitational/Northfield 9 a.m. – Boys Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball @ Culver 4-way Tournament 6:15 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Manchester Jr./Sr. High School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Manchester High School – Home Jan. 11 6 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball
vs. Argos Community Jr./Sr. High School – Home 6 p.m. – Boys Seventh Grade Basketball vs. Whitko Jr./Sr. High School – Home 7:15 p.m. – Boys Eighth Grade Basketball vs. Whitko Middle School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Argos Community Jr./Sr. High School – Home Peru Jan. 5 6 p.m. – Girl Junior Varsity Basketball @ Tri-Central Jr./Sr. High School 6:3-0 p.m. – Varsity Wrestling vs. Wabash High School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball @Tri-Central Jr./Sr. High School Jan. 7 6:15 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Oak Hill High School – Home 7:45 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Oak Hill High School – Home Jan. 8 Noon – Varsity Wrestling @ IH-
SWCA Team State Duals Noon – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball @ Delphi Community High School 1:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball @ Delphi Community High School 6:15 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Lewis Cass High School – Home 7:45 p.m. – Boys Var-
sity Basketball vs. Lewis Cass High School – Home Jan. 10 5:30 p.m. – Boys Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball vs. Northfield Jr./Sr. High School – Home 6:15 p.m. – Girls Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball @ Oak Hill Junior High School Jan. 11
5:30 p.m. – Boys Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball @ Manchester Junior High School 5:30 p.m. – Girls Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball vs. Manchester Junior High School – Home 6 p.m. – Junior Varsity Wrestling @ Maconaquah High School
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January 5, 2022
Police Reports Miami County Sheriff ’s Department Dec. 8 Disorderly conduct was reported at 44044 MacDill Court, Peru. A slide off was reported at W 500 S & S 400 W, Peru. A single-vehicle personal injury crash was reported at E Lovers Lane Road and W Old Key Drive, Peru. Indiana State Police worked crash and Heeter towed vehicle. Harassment was reported at 3311 S St. Road 19, Smithfield, Peru. A two-vehicle property damage crash was reported at 314 E Washington Ave, Prescott Green, Bunker Hill. State report completed. A female at 2667 Capehart St, Peru advised she wishes for a female be trespassed. Officers attempted to locate the female and was unable. An animal problem was reported at 4326 W Old Stone Road, Peru. Officers at E U.S. 24 and E 250 N, Peru responded to a single vehicle car deer crash. There were no injuries reported. A state crash report was submitted. Officers at 8566 S 250 W, Bunker Hill responded to an ongoing animal problem. Individual was given a warning about the issue. A suspicious package or item was reported at 2787 N 300 E, Peru. Invasion of privacy was reported at 1860 W 1050 S, Miami. Dec. 9 An animal problem was reported at Logansport Road and U.S. 31,
Peru. An animal problem was reported at S 300 E & E 1100 S, Amboy. A structure fire was reported at 150 W 900 S, Bunker Hill. A suspicious package or item was reported at N 100 W & W 400 N, Peru. Officers at 2661 S U.S. 31, Knight’s Inn, Peru checked on a suspicious vehicle. All checked okay. Burglary was reported at 4504 W 450 N, Peru. All checked okay. Dec. 11 Domestic disturbance was reported at 1507 Forbes Ave, Peru. An animal problem was reported at 5322 N St. Road 19, Peru. A heart attack was reported at 9937 N Meridian Road, Denver. Unwanted guest, trespass warning issued. A two-vehicle crash with injuries was reported at N U.S. 31 and W St. Road 16, Denver. Subjects were transported to area hospitals by Dukes EMS. Miami County Sheriff's Office was assisted by Dukes EMS, Denver, and Mexico Fire Departments. Dec. 13 A female near 550 N, Peru, reported that her money was taken from her purse while in her possession inside her residence, but she did not see it occur. She suffers from delusions from apparent dementia. Female's family is aware of the ongoing issue. For record only at this time. A suspicious vehicle was reported at 196 S Emmons St, Denver Community
Bldg., Denver, but was unable to be located. A reckless cement truck was reported at N U.S. 31 and W U.S. 24, Peru, but was unable to be located. A traffic accident with damage was reported at 256 E 800 S, Maconaquah High School, Bunker Hill. Trespassing was reported at 1946 W Reed St, Miami. Thomas Henderson was issued a no trespass. A car vs. deer accident was reported at W U.S. 24 and N 500 W, Peru. No injuries were reported. Dec. 14 A property damage crash was reported at N U.S. 31 and W 900 N, Macy. A two-vehicle crash was reported at W Airport Rd. and S U.S. 31, Peru. Indiana State Police worked the call. A three-vehicle crash was reported at S U.S. 31 and W Blair Pike Rd, Peru. A car vs. deer accident was reported at 1692 E 900 N, Denver. No injuries were reported. A state crash report was submitted. A threat was reported at 632 E 900 N, North Miami Elementary School, Denver. This is an ongoing investigation. A burglary report was taken at 2478 W Airport Road, Peru. An unwanted guest was reported at 2934 S 300 W, Lot 230, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, Peru. Dec. 17 A traffic accident with damage was reported at W 500 S & S 400 W, Peru.
An unconscious person was reported at S McKee St. and W Macy Gilead Rd, Macy. A civil dispute over marital property was reported at W Seventh St. and N Fremont St, Peru. An unconscious person was reported at 12948 S U.S. 31, Lot 17, Kokomo. The reported person was talking when offi-
cers arrived. A report was made with CPS. Domestic disturbance was reported at 64 S Chandler St, Denver. A two-vehicle crash was reported at 266 S Business 31 Peru Family Restaurant, Peru. No injuries were reported. A car vs. deer accident was re-
ported at N U.S. 31 and W 1250 N, Macy. No injuries were reported. A state crash report was submitted. Dec. 18 Theft was reported at 45011 Little Rock Court, Peru. A suspicious package or item was reported at S 50 W and W Riverside Dr, Peru. All checked okay.
A suspicious person or vehicle was reported at 7216 S 400 E, Peru. A possible case of driving under the influence was reported at S U.S. 31 and W St. Rd. 218, Peru. Officers at 13783 S 400 W, Kokomo, spoke with two mothers regarding children sending explicit photographs on SeePolice, Page 8
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January 5, 2022
Police
continued from Page 7
snapchat. A traffic accident with minor injuries was reported at 2059 S Bus. 31, Peru. A state crash report was completed. A traffic accident with damage was reported at 859 W Riverside Dr, Peru. Dec. 19 A suspicious package or item was reported at 1626 Warhawk Rd, Peru. A traffic accident with injuries was reported at 4448 S Strawtown Pike, Peru.
A possible case of driving under the influence was reported at 4366 Strawtown Pike, Peru. Reports of gunshots were taken at 4457 W 1350 S, Galveston. A mother at 4131 E 800 N, Denver was trying to leave with her three minor children when her adult daughter didn’t think she should take kids. Daughter thought mom was taking them to her boyfriends which they felt was unsafe for
children. Mother was taking children to their fathers in Peru. A verbal domestic occurred at 2874 W 500 S, Peru. Parties separated for the evening. A car vs. deer accident was reported at 84 Albert St, Peru. No injuries were reported. Dec. 20 Burglary was reported at 2943 S U.S. 31, Peru. A single vehicle minor injury accident occurred at W Blair Pike Road
and N U.S. 31, Peru. Indiana State Police oversaw the crash. An unwanted guest was reported at 1942 George Ave, Peru. The subject was gone prior to officer arrival. Officers responded to the area of 1942 George Ave, Peru in reference to a male trespassing on a property. Males was trespassed from the property. A two-vehicle crash was reported at W 500 S & S 50 W, Peru. No in-
juries were reported. Officers assisted Duke’s EMS at 2450 S 550 E, Peru with a medical call. A multiple vehicle accident with injury was reported at S U.S. 31 and S Graber Dr, Peru. Officers responded to the area of S Bus. 31 and W River Road, Peru for a male attempting to jump. An officer Peru Police Department was able to save the male from jumping. A possible case of
driving under the A caller at 4414 E influence was reSanta Fe Pike, ported at S 100 W & Peru reported a W 1350 S, Kokomo. phone fraud. A case report was Dec. 21 completed. A suspicious A traffic accident package or item with injuries was was reported at reported at E 4236 W Hoosier Third St. and N Blvd, Grissom Inn, Elm St, Bunker Peru. Hill. Disorderly conA car vs. deer acduct was reported cident was reat 12948 S U.S. 31, ported at E U.S. 24 Maple Lawn Viland N 550 E, Peru. No injuries were lage, Lot 45, reported. A state Kokomo. Dec. 22 crash report was A car vs. deer ac- completed. cident was reA mental case report was taken at ported at N 400 W Mississinewa and W U.S. 24, Peru. reservoir Peru.
Community Calendar
Accepting Applications through WorkOne of Wabash, Huntington and Marion or Online at onepaperworks.com
for Laborer Position. This position is full-time with benefits in 90 days working swing-shift. STARTING HOURLY WAGE IS $20.62 AND AFTER 90 DAYS COULD EARN UP TO $27.58. Requirements to submit application: • High school diploma or GED • Pass 1 test at WorkOne
Every Monday 10:30 a.m. – Movers and Shakers, a music and movement program at the Peru Public Library. Ages 0-5. Every Tuesday 10 a.m. – Every Tuesday, one dozen regular (no specialty) doughnuts can be purchased for $12 directly from Joe DeRozier. $6 goes directly to the
Policemen and Firemen Appreciation fund. Contact DeRozier on Mondays before 10 a.m. to place an order. Doughnuts need to be picked up before 10 a.m. on Tuesdays. DeRozier can be reached through his personal Facebook page to place orders. 10:30 a.m. – Story time at the Peru Public Library. Noon-3 p.m. –
Wanted – Senior Pinochle players are invited to play every Tuesday at the Miami County Senior Center, 661 E. Main Street, Peru. The cost is fifty cents. For more information, contact Annie Speth at 765473-3209. Every Thursday 4:30 p.m. – Lego Club at the Peru Public Library.
Every third Thursday each month 4:30 p.m. – American Girl Club at the Peru Public Library. Jan. 13 4 p.m. – The Peru High School Class of 1960 will hold their monthly dinner at My Pizza My Way. If you have an upcoming event in 2022, send it to: mboswell@thepaperofmiami.com.