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December 8, 2021
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Peru Elks Lodge No. 365,
PHS Choir continue tradition By Michelle Boswell mboswell@thepaperofmiami.com In a solemn ceremony, the Peru Elks Lodge No.365 memorialized lodge members who passed away this year. Lodge Secretary and Past Exalted Ruler (P.E.R.), Phil Walker, opened the ceremony, which took place Sunday, Dec. 5 at 2 p.m. “Members and guests. Phil Walker our order has decreed the first Sunday of December we set apart as a day for Elks to gather and refresh with the dew of recollection, the tender blossoms of hope and love, the memory of the departed. Obedient to our laws with hearts attuned to perfect sympathy, we meet on this Memorial Day to pledge anew, fidelity to the memory of our fellow members who have passed into the realm of eternity,” Walker said. Walker asked that all in attendance stand as the Chaplin said a prayer. After the prayer, the Peru High School Choir, lead by choral director, Dr. Jason Gornto, sang, “Mary Had a Boy Child.” When the song ended, Brad Dillon, Esquire, went to the candelabra and waited for the roll call of the departed members to be announced. As each departed member was named, a candle was extinguished in their honor. The names of the departed were Donald Beech, Melissa Bishop, Sherry Bohn, James Chapman,
Vol. 2, No. 41
Brad Dillion, Esquire, extinguishes a candle representing an Elks Lodge member who passed away this year. The Peru Elks Lodge No. 365 has this ceremony annually. Photo by Michelle Boswell Jerry Chase, P.E.R, Rex Colgrove, Penny Frederick, Kenny Maple, Edwin M. Maus, Don Ousley, Nelson Owens, Charles Radliff, P.E.R., and Ron Wheetly. Following the roll call, Walker said, “In vain we call they have passed through the valley of the shadows into sunlight of eternal morning. Places that have known them shall know them no more. But upon our tablets of love and memory their names shall endure forever.” Walker then asked what offerings would be
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placed on the altar in memory of those who are departed. The offerings were placed on the altar with the meaning behind each one explained. The Forget Me Not, to remind many that fellow members are never forgotten; the Amaranth, the emblem of immortality, and the Ivy, the symbol of brotherly love. The PHS Choir stood and sang its second song called, “That’s Christmas to Me.”
See Elks, Page 8
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THE PAPER
December 8, 2021
Distinguished Young Woman competition set for Dec. 11
The Distinguished Young Women competition, formerly known as the Junior Miss Pageant, will take place in Peru, Dec. 11, 2021. The event begins at 6:45 p.m. at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 181 W Main Street. Admission is free. The scholastic judging will be completed before competition day and interviews will be conducted the afternoon of Dec. 11. The categories of self-expression, talent, and fitness will take place at the 6:45 p.m. showcase. The awards ceremony will take place at the conclusion of the event. The young women competing are referred to as participants, not contestants, because the DYW competition is a scholarship program, not a beauty pageant. During the practice sessions for DYW at the Peru/Miami County YMCA, the participants had several workshops including make-up, safety, “Be Your Best Self,” (BYBS) and how to be interviewed. The BYBS category includes the following: Be Healthy – Care for you physical and mental health; Be Involved – Serve your community; Be Studious – Stay in school and be a lifelong learner; Be Am-
Allison Burns School: North Miami HS Activities: Dance, FFA, 4-H, Student Council College Choice: Huntington Career Goal: Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Talent: Tap Dance
Annie Isenburg School: Maconaquah HS Activities: Tennis, Soccer, Swimming, Student Government College Choice:
bitious – Set and achieve goals and be responsible – Live by moral and ethical principles. In 1987, DYW developed and launched the BYBS program as the organization’s national outreach aimed at encouraging boys and girls all over the country to lead successful and productive lives. Through the BYBS program, DYW seeks to give program participants at the local, state, and national level a means to make a positive and lasting impact on the world around them. The five elements of the BYBS program are at the heart of the DYW philosophy, and the program helps to instill those values in others. In
spreading the BYBS message to young people, participants are encouraged to choose to implement it into their own lives. There are five categories in the competition. The first category is scholastic, and it is worth 25%. A qualified educator reviews and rates transcripts. Scores are based on standardized tests, grade-point average, academic extracurriculars, and difficulty of courses. Second is the interview category and it is worth 25%. A participant’s personal interactive skills are evaluated in a 10minute interview designed to allow her to reveal her personality while also indi-
Indiana University
Career Goal: Nurse Practitioner Talent: Piano
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Molly Nord School: Maconaquah HS Activities: Dance, Circus, Basketball, Soccer College Choice: Trine University Career Goal: Physical Therapist Talent: Lyrical Dance cating her maturity, reasoning skills, moral code, individual beliefs, and the ability to communicate effectively in a personal setting. The third category is selfexpression, and it is worth 15%. A participant is evaluated on her public speaking ability in front of a live audience. Judges look for clarity and content of speech, clear and concise delivery of ideas, confidence, posture, and carriage. The fourth category is talent, and it is worth 20%. A maximum 90-second solo performance is evaluated based on showmanship, technical ability, stage presence, and appropriateness of selection and costume. The final category is fitness, and it is worth 15%. A participant’s overall conditioning during a choreographed routine is evaluated. Co-
Elisabeth Pennington School: Maconaquah HS Activities: Girl Scouts, FFA, Next Level Swing Choir, Academic Super Bowl College Choice: Purdue or Ball State Career Goal: To make a difference Talent: Theatrical Monologue ordination, stamina, agility, strength, and body tone are considered in the overall evaluation. This program, although it has a different name, has been in Miami County over 50 years. It is one of the longest running local programs in the state of Indiana. Shane Matlock and Julie Worland, former Miami County chairpersons, are the DYW of Indiana program chairpersons. More scholarship money can go into this program because the staff for the competition is volunteer based. Scholarships and expenses are covered by numerous local donors. The 2022 DYW of Miami County awards will be presented to winners for the following categories: Be Your Best Self - $250; Spirit -
Elizabeth Rogers School: Peru HS Activities: Golf, Tennis, National Honor Society, Student Council College Choice: Notre Dame Career Goal: English/Law Talent: Narrative Reading
Hannah Yoo School: Yoo Academy Activities: Circus, Flight Lessons, Piano, Track College Choice: Moody Career Goal: Mission Aviation Talent: Presentation
$250; Scholastic $250; Interview - $250; Self-Expression $250; Talent - $250; Fitness - $250; Third Runner-up - $200; Second Runner-up $250 and First Runner-up - $500. The 2022 Distinguished Young Woman of Miami County will receive $1000 for a total of $3,700 of scholarships awarded. Miami County’s
winner will go to the state competition in February 2022. The state winner will advance to the DYW of America program in Mobile, Alabama, June 2022. The 2018 national winner was Aaryan Morrison from Howard County. For more information about this program, visit http://miami.in.distinguishedyw.org/
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Obituaries Kevin McKinney, 62 Kevin McKinney, 62, of Peru, passed away Sunday, Nov. 21, 2021, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Kevin was born in Peru Oct. 1, 1959, to William Frank and Mary (Deeter) McKinney. He was employed at NIPSCO as a heavy equipment operator and was also a member of USW Local 12775. Kevin was a member of the Wabash Valley Coonhunters Association. He loved to camp, ride four wheelers and sit around anybody's campfire to drink beer and B.S. He is survived by his wife Susan McKinney, his two sons Kevin McKinney II and Christopher McKinney, and stepson Justin (Danielle) Norman. Also surviving is a brother Bill McKinney and sisters Mary Kay McKinney, Carla Worley, and Sue McKinney. Kevin was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Rick McKinney and Terry McKinney, and a sister Paula. Per Kevin's wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Judy Kaye Harmon, 69 Judy Kaye Harmon, 69, of Peru passed away Saturday, Nov. 27, 2021, at Miller’s Merry Manor in Peru. Judy was born April 22, 1952, to Malcolm D. and Patricia Louise (Parks) Harmon. She was previously employed by Miller’s Merry Manor Nursing Home as a housekeeper. In her spare time, Judy enjoyed watching tv and spending time with her cat, Shadow. Judy was preceded in death by her parents and infant son, David Eugene Harmon. At this time, there are no services scheduled. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
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Charles Melvin “Charlie” Shilling, Jr. 82 Charles Melvin “Charlie” Shilling Jr., 82, of Peru passed away Friday, Nov. 26, 2021, at the Ft. Wayne VA Hospital. He was born June 25, 1939, in Bunker Hill, Indiana, to Charles Melvin Shilling Sr. and Martha M. (Austin) Shilling. He married Marilyn Ann (Curtis) Shilling Nov. 23, 1962, and she survives. Charlie served our country in the Marines as a Mail Clerk from November 1958-August 1962. He retired from CSX Railroad as an electrician. He loved reading western novels and anything to do with trains. Charles was a sweet loving soul and did not know a stranger. He enjoyed helping others when someone needed him. He was a member of the Zion Chapel Church in Peru, Indiana. Charles enjoyed spending time with family and friends while eating out. He also liked to fish. Charlie loved his church family, railroad companions, and all of his nieces and nephews. Charles was a good husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. In addition to his wife, he is also survived by his children, Jeffery Allen Shilling (Teresa), Denver, Charles David Shilling, Peru; four grandchildren, Wesley Shilling (Erika) Warsaw, Indiana, Chelsey Shilling Chicago, Illinois, Racheal Pegg and companion, Forrest Blackman Peru, Austin Watts, Chili; three great-grandchildren, Trace and Ian Shilling, and Eden Blackman. Charlie is also survived by twin brother Ralph Shilling, Peru, and sister Linda (Burt) Conner, Oxford, Indiana Charles is preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Martha Correll and Virginia Hedrick. Visitation was held at the Zion Chapel Church, 915 South Broadway, Peru, Indiana, Dec. 3, 2021, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The funeral service followed at 2 p.m. with pastor Rod Correll officiating. Burial took place at Greenlawn Cemetery in Mexico, Indiana. Military rites were provided by Miami County Military Rites. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family to help with funeral expenses. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Jody Lynn Heeter, 54
Don R. Christensen, 92
Jody Lynn Heeter, 54, of Indianapolis, passed away Monday Nov. 29, 2021, at Community Hospital North in Indianapolis. She was born March 28, 1967, in Kokomo, Indiana, to Dave Herpolsheimer and Joyce (Kling) Baker. Joyce currently resides in Lebanon, Indiana, and Jody's father resides just east of Terre Haute, Indiana. Her father served in the military at Grissom Air Force Base. Jody and Kevin were married on 08.08.08 in a destination wedding on the island of Jamaica. They have lived in Indianapolis since their marriage. Jody graduated from Lebanon High School and received a bachelor's degree in childhood education from Indiana State University. She was employed by the State of Indiana for a few years but later found her passion in massage therapy. She loved helping people and improving their lives through her excellent skills she acquired and maintained throughout her career. Her pets were always a passion in her life. Jody and Kevin adopted a rescue animal that she adored. Jody was an avid reader and was loved by everyone that came into her life. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Patricia (Smith) Kling 2002, and R. Everett Kling, 2014. They were instrumental in influencing her life and she always adored them both. She is survived by her husband, Kevin Heeter, her mother, father, aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins. Visitation was Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.at Allen Funeral Home, 136 S. Elm St., Bunker Hill, Indiana. The graveside service followed at Clymer Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lucci's House Bully Rescue www.LuccisHouse.org. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Don R. Christensen, 92, of Peru passed away Monday, Nov. 29, 2021, at his residence. He was born in Monticello, Indiana, April 13, 1929, to Harry Chris Christensen and Lulu Bessie (Helfrich) Christensen. Don served in the United States Navy from July 13, 1948, to Feb. 6, 1950. Don retired as the vice president of Peru Trust Company. He was an active member of the Church of the Brethren, he enjoyed golf, basketball, dancing and helping others. Don’s greatest joy was his kids and family. Don is survived by his children: Chris (Janet) Christensen of Nyona Lake, Teri (Dave) Merritt of Noblesville, Curt (Tracy) Christensen of Noblesville, and Carl Christensen of Peru; and grandchildren: David (Kelly) Christensen of Louisville, Carly Christensen of Portage, Michigan, Christy (Chris) McGuire of Peru, Kelly (Jason) Hines of Noblesville, Andrew Petry of Colorado, Caitlin (Jared) Warne of Lafayette; as well as 9 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are sisters Mary Baker of Monticello and Minnie Rayburn of Indianapolis, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson Jason Christensen, one great-great-grandchild, brothers Rut Christensen, Bob Christensen and Jim Christensen, and sisters Betty Christensen and Lou Lesley. Visitation was held from 10 a.m. to Noon, Monday, Dec. 6, 2021, at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana. The funeral service followed at Noon, with pastor Phil Troxell officiating. Burial took place at Helfrick Cemetery in Monon, Indiana. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Church of the Brethren, 134 East Fifth Street, Peru, Indiana 46970. 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 Pages 4 & 6
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THE PAPER
December 8, 2021
Obituaries Donald Eugene McKinley, 74
Janet Kay Thomas, 78
Donald Eugene McKinley of Peru, Indiana, returned suddenly to the Lord’s hands on the morning of Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2021. Born July 6, 1947, Don was a kind and helpful man who was an avid sports fan, loved classic cars and spending time with his family. He was well loved and will be missed by all who knew him. Don worked in Entomology first in Civil Service and then through an independent contractor at Grissom Air Force Base for over 50 years. Preceded in death are his parents, Charles “Bud” McKinley, and Norma (Bowman) McKinley, and brother Patrick McKinley. Don is survived by his wife Jennifer (Smith) of 53 years and also by his sister, Jeanine Grant (husband Kenny). two children: Janel Little (husband, Jeffrey) of Muncie and Donald “Duke” McKinley (wife, Heather) of Cincinnati, Ohio. Six grandchildren: Wesley Little (wife, Jenny of Cunningham, Tennessee), Marlena Wolfe (husband, Mason) of Muncie, Kayla Steinhall (Fiancée, Shane Wilcox) of Muncie, and Madisyn Little of Muncie, Aiden McKinley of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Zoe McKinley of Cincinnati, Ohio. Two great-grandchildren: Maxwell Bertram (Muncie) and Rowan Wilcox (Muncie) and a beloved cat Lucky. Visitation was Saturday, Dec. 4 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana. The funeral service was held Sunday, Dec. 5 at 1:30 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 181 West Main Street, Peru, Indiana. Burial will take place at Ever-Rest Memorial Park Cemetery in Logansport, Indiana. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Janet Kay Thomas, 78, of Peru, passed away Dec. 2, 2021, at Community North Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. Janet was born May 4, 1943, in Bunker Hill, Indiana, to the late Delton and Mildred (Hilligoss) Boyer. She married James Thomas and he preceded her in death May 27, 2008. She was retired from American Stationary. Janet was also an active member of the Calvary Temple Church. She is survived by her daughter, Teresa (Rick) Tracy of Mesa, Arizona, and son Mark (Candy) Thomas of Peru, Indiana. Janet is also survived by her grandchildren Michael (Sarah) Tracy of Gilbert, Arizona, Heather Tracy of Chandler, Arizona, Brayton (Bridgette) Thomas of Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, Alyssa Thomas of Peru, Briana Thomas of Peru, and great grandchildren Savannah Tracy of Gilbert, Arizona, and Jaiden Thomas of Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. Also surviving is her sister, Kitty Ribble, of Peru. Janet was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sister, Linda Bell. A graveside service will be held with Kevin Palmer officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to the Calvary Temple Church, 2908 W. 200 N., Peru, Indiana. Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Norman L. Durbin, 85 Norman L. Durbin, of Peru passed away Friday, Nov. 19, 2021, at St. Elizabeth Healthcare Campus in Delphi. Born Nov. 6, 1936, in St. Elmo, Illinois, he was the son of the late Loren A. Durbin and Beulah L. (Richardson) Durbin. He was preceded in death by his wife Sue C. Durbin Dec. 8, 2018. A private burial was held at Ever-Rest Memorial Park in Cass, County. Riverview Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Norman’s online guestbook is available, and condolences can be shared with the family at www.riverviewfhperu.com.
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Bobby E. Thurston, 64 Bobby E. Thurston, 64, of Peru passed away Nov. 9, 2021, in Arizona. Born Feb. 20, 1957, in Tipton, Indiana, he was the son of the late William and Margie (McCool) Thurston. Bobby was an active missionary with PCG World Missions. Survivors include his children both of Peru, Angel Butzin (Mark), Niky Clark (Michael), grandchildren, Noah Wiley (Shania), Dailynn Butzin, Maci Butzin, Chace Gottschalk, Brady Butzin, Caegan Gottschalk and siblings, Claude Thurston (Texas), Randy Thurston (Texas). He was also preceded in death by his wife, Iliana Thurston. Services will be at Noon, Saturday, Dec. 18, 2021, at Riverview Funeral Home with Pastor Virgil Kincaid officiating. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to Noon. Bobby’s online guest book is available, and condolences can be shared with the family at www.riverviewfhperu.com.
More Obituaries on Page 6
Weldon Dee Sutton, 85 Weldon Dee Sutton, 85, St. Joseph Drive, Kokomo, died at 9:35 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 2, 2021. Dee was born in Miami County, Indiana, June 19, 1936, the son of James Lloyd “Slip” and Maude M. Condit Sutton. He married Diann Sullivan of Peru July 6, 1958, and she survives. Dee was a member of Pipe Creek Church of the Brethren where he was a deacon and member of the finance committee. He graduated from Clay High School and was an engineer on the Norfolk Southern Railroad for 42 years. Dee enjoyed fishing, traveling, reading the Bible, eating ice cream and spending time with his family. Dee is survived by two daughters, Tammy (Mark) Ro-
billard of Canton, Georgia, and Julie (Dennis) Carter of Russiaville, Indiana; four grandsons, Jon Mark Robillard, Tyler Robillard, Josh Carter and Chris (Mandy) Carter and great granddaughter Charlotte Carter. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Cletus, Wesley, and infant brother Gene. A Celebration of Life Service for Weldon Dee Sutton will be held at 3 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021, at the EikenberryEddy Funeral Home, 84 W. Main St., Peru, with Rev. Les Cooper officiating. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery, Peru, Indiana. Family and friends will gather from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made through the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home to Miami County Helping Hands.
Wilma Jean Willard Tullis, 93 Wilma Jean Willard Tullis, 93, Macy, went to be with Jesus Nov. 20, 2021, at Woodlawn Hospital, Rochester, Indiana, with her daughter Mary at her side. Born Jan. 28, 1928, in Fulton County, she was the daughter of Mary Catherine Schamp Willard and Joshua Willard. She was married to Richard Gene Tullis Dec. 21, 1944, and he preceded her in death in 1993. Wilma and Richard raised one daughter, Mary Tullis Goodwin and one son, Bernard Eugene Tullis, who preceded
her in death in January 2020. She leaves behind her grandchildren, Pam and Paul Goodwin, and Crystal, Richard Bernard, Jr.; and greatgrandma to Mary Dunham Melendez (Julio Victor Melendez) and great-great grandmother to Samantha, Kailyn, Victoria, and Aria. She also leaves behind one brother Willis Dean (Shirley) Willard, Rochester. There will be no public services at this time. A gathering is being planned in the spring. Burial was in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester. McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.mcclainfh.com.
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THE PAPER
December 8, 2021
Sports Local Sports Calendar North Miami Dec. 8 5:30 p.m. – Boys Sixth Grade Basketball vs. Blair Pointe School – Home 6:30 p.m. – Varsity Wrestling – Peru/Rochester/Whit ko/NM Quads @ Rochester High School Dec. 9 6 p.m. – Boys Seventh Grade Basketball @ Logansport Middle School 7:15 p.m. – Boys Eighth Grade Basketball vs. Logansport Middle School (Lincoln) @ Columbia Middle School Dec. 10 6:15 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Tippecanoe Valley High School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Tippecanoe Valley High School – Home Dec. 11 9 a.m. – Varsity Wrestling – Super 6 @ Caston High School 6 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball @
Pioneer High School 7:30 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball @ Pioneer High School Dec. 13 6 p.m. – Boys Sixth Grade Basketball @ Wabash Elementary School 6:15 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Peru High School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Peru High School – Home Dec. 14 5:30 p.m. – Boys Seventh Grade Basketball vs. Tippecanoe Valley Middle School – Home 6 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball @ Lakeland Christian Academy 7:15 p.m. – Boys Eight Grade Basketball vs. Tippecanoe Valley Middle School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball @ Lakeland Christian Academy
7:30 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball @ Tipton High School
Peru
Maconaquah Dec. 8 6 p.m. – Boys Sixth Grade Basketball vs. Taylor High School – Home Dec. 9 5:30 p.m. – Boys and Girls Varsity Swimming @ Tippecanoe Valley High School 6 p.m. – Boys Freshman Basketball @ Marion High School 6 p.m. – Boys Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball @ Northfield Jr./Sr. High School 6 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Tri-Central Jr./Sr. High School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Tri-Central Jr./Sr. High School – Home Dec. 10 6:15 p.m. – Boys Jun-
ior Varsity Basketball @ Wabash High School 7:45 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Wabash High School Dec. 11 9 a.m. – Boys Junior Varsity, Varsity and Coed Varsity Wrestling @ Lebanon Girls Wrestling Invitational 9 a.m. – Boys Freshman Basketball @ Caston Tournament 10 a.m. – Boys Sixth Grade Basketball @ Oak Hill High School 11 a.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Lewis Cass Jr./Sr. High School – Home 12:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Lewis Cass Jr./Sr. High School – Home Dec. 13 5:30 p.m. – Girls and
Boys Varsity Swimming @ Wabash High School/Wabash County YMCA 6 p.m. – Boys Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball @ Western High School 6 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Carroll High School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Carroll Jr./Sr. High School (Flora) – Home Dec. 14 6 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball @ Tipton High School 6 p.m. – Boys Eighth Grade Basketball @ Rochester (Seventh Grade Only) 6 p.m. – Boys Seventh Grade Basketball @ Rochester (Seventh Grade Only)
Dec. 8 6:30 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity and Varsity Wrestling @ Rochester Quad Meet Dec. 9 5:30 p.m. – Boys Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball @ Southwood High School 6 p.m. – Girls Junior Varsity Basketball @ Lewis Cass High School 6:15 p.m. – Boys Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball (7A/7B) @ Southwood High School 6:15 p.m. – Boys Freshman Basketball vs. Lewis Cass High School – Home 7:30 p.m. – Girls Varsity Basketball @ Lewis Cass High School Dec. 11 9 a.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Wrestling @ Plymouth JV Invitational
9 a.m. – Boys Freshman Basketball @ Frosh Four Way Invitational 6:15 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball vs. Northfield Jr./Sr. High School – Home 7:45 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Northfield Jr./Sr. High School – Home Dec. 13 6 p.m. – Boys Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball @ Oak Hill Junior High School 6 p.m. – Boys Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball (8A-8B) @ Oak Hill High School 6 p.m. – Boys Freshman Basketball @ Tipton High School Dec. 14 5:30 p.m. – Boys Seventh and Eighth Grade Basketball vs. Manchester Junior High School 6:15 p.m. – Boys Junior Varsity Basketball @ Tippecanoe Valley High School 7:45 p.m. – Boys Varsity Basketball @ Tippecanoe Valley High School
North Miami Middle/High School announces ‘All A’ honor roll students First Nine Weeks All A: Seniors: Allison Burns, Alison Herren, Jaden Hetzner, Benjamin Hostetler, Shyloe Hunt, Seth Ireland, Parker Johnson, Chloe Keith, Amara Laycock, Gabriel Laycock, Kayla Main, Madison Maynard, Amos Nice, Audrey Piel, Ethan Ramsell, Dryaden Schanlaub, Trevor
Simons, Macey Stockdale, Jerzi Trigg, Alaina Weaver, Kaci Whann, Malachi Wiley. Juniors: Connor Bahney, Amaya Blickenstaff-James, Allison Bowman, Gabriella Francis, Madison Goulette, Blakely Herren, Reese Hoover, Landen Hunt, Anna Kaiser, Aaliyah Klapp, Tyler Kling, Austin Knauff, Han-
nah Miller, Landon Thomas, Jalin Utter, Garrett Walker, Allie Wildermuth. Sophomores: Dolan Blakely, Lacy Coakley, Brooklyn Correll, Kacie Deardorff, Benson Eckrote, Aslan Emberton, Gracyn Gidley, Kaiden Hanley, Kayla Hill, Isaac Ireland, Reid Johnson, Andrew Lane, Edward Lane, Bradlee Larrowe,
Pierce Madden, Parker Mallow, Lulu McBride, Alexander Phillips, Zekiel Reshkus, Braya Schanlaub, Alison Smith, Emily R. Smith, Peyton Stoner, Graycie Storm, Jordan Weaver, Sophia Wohlfarth. Freshmen: Michael Cleaver, Calie France, Maliyah Hall, Katrina Longawa, Jacob
Peru student on championship Manchester University Smash team For the second time in a row, Manchester University Esports Super Smash Bros. Ultimate team has brought home the Great Lakes Esports Conference (@GLEC_GG) championship. Sophmore James Walsh won the playoffs' MVP award with his clutch game 2 performance against Trine University to keep the Spartans' championship hopes alive. Walsh is from Peru, Indiana, and is majoring in
English/Lang Arts Education. "I am so incredibly proud of what this team has accomplished," said Garrett "toweroftoast" Schieferstein, director of esports at Manchester. "This team, from top to bottom, has improved so much over the last three months. They work hard every day, lab matchups after class, and watch opposing team VODs (videos on demand) all on their own outside of practice time. They deserved every win
they earned this season." This is the team's second undefeated season. It went 6-0 last year and it went 12-0 this year. "The Smash team had two insanely tough goals this year. We wanted to place top eight in nationals and win the GLEC championship with an undefeated record. Now with this win, I can proudly say that we accomplished both of those goals. GGs (good games) to Huntington, Trine, Mount Union, and
all other schools that we played this year in the GLEC. We are already practicing for next year!" The grand finals against the University of Mount Union at Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio, saw a clean sweep. MUES Smash (@MU_esport) won 30 to claim its second @GLEC_GG championship. Manchester defeated teams from Trine and Huntington University to get to the finals.
Riley, Garrett Starkey, Dakoda Whann. Eighth Grade: Annabelle Buffington, Katelyn Cleaver, Riley Collins, Hannah Early, Hannah Fennell, Isaac Floyd, Jordyn Hackworth, Ashtyn Halterman,
Hartley Hoover, Alivia Kinney, Braylon McIntire, Ryan Meredith, Leah Miller, Laney Musall, Zephaniah Reshkus, Alivia Resler, Grace Sailors, Chloe Sparks, Zoey Sparks, Meggan Starkey, Brinly Sturch, Tay-
lor Sturch, Kamren Whann, Gabriel Wiley. Seventh Grade: Michelle Hawkins, Laina Kling, Karasyn Kuhn, Leona Mullet, Zion See, Logan Smith, Kinzy Storm.
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Obituaries Glenn Russell Conner, 75 Glenn Russell Conner, 75, Peru, passed away Tuesday evening, Nov. 30, 2021, at St. Vincent Hospital, Kokomo. Born June 29, 1946, in Peru, Indiana, he was the son of Lawrence, Jr. and Harriette M. (Stoffer) Conner. On July 21, 1968, at the Mexico Church of the Brethren, he was married to Donita M. Balsbaugh. Glenn graduated from North Miami High School in 1964, where he played basketball and was active in the Future Farmers of America (FFA). He was a veteran of the United States Army and was a life-long farmer in the North Miami Community as well as being the salesman for DCM Monograms in Mexico. Glenn served on the Board of Directors for the Miami County Museum and Greenlawn Cemetery and was a member of the first corn checkoff board. He was an active member of the Mexico Church of the Brethren, where he served in many positions and was currently the church historian. He enjoyed gardening, coloring with crayons, and spending winters in Ft. Myers, Florida. Survivors include his wife Donita M. Conner, Peru; two sons, Bret M. Conner, Peru; and Bart (Katie) M. Conner, Westfield; five grandchildren, Kennedy Conner, Keegan Conner, Owen Page, Baylor Conner, and McKenzie Conner, all of Westfield; one great-grandson, Chace Lea; two brothers, Eldon (Jean) Conner, Peru; and Larry (Diane) Conner, Peru; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, at the Mexico Church of the Brethren, Mexico, with pastor Matt Myers and Chaplain Jason See officiating. The service was live streamed through the funeral home website at www.mcclainfh.com/livestream. Burial followed in Greenlawn Cemetery, Mexico, with military rites provided by the Miami County Military Rites Unit. Visitation was from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, 2021, and one hour prior to the service on Saturday, at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mexico Church of the Brethren or Greenlawn Cemetery. McClain Funeral Home, Denver, has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at
Harrison Jackie “Jack” Ousley, 59 Harrison Jackie “Jack” Ousley, 59, passed away surrounded by loved ones Saturday, Nov. 27, 2021, at Parkview Regional Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was born March 13, 1962, to Obie and Martha Ousley. Jack graduated
from Peru High School in 1980. He was a member of the U.S. military. He also was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and a member of the Literary Aid Society. Survivors include his father, Obie Ousley; wife Rhonda Ousley; four children,
Jasper County ‘John Doe’ identified as former Peru resident Press release - Redgrave Research Forensic Services, a company in Massachusetts which specializes in the use of Forensic Genetic Genealogy, working in cooperation with the coroner’s office of Jasper County, Indiana, have successfully identified the Jasper County John Doe who was an unidentified victim of serial killer Larry Eyler. The young man, who was murdered by Eyler in 1982, has been confirmed to be William Joseph “Bill” Lewis, age 19, of Peru, Indiana. On Oct. 15, 1983, skeletal remains were discovered on a private plot of land in Jasper County, Indiana in a rural area outside of Rensselaer by a man checking and setting fox traps. Authorities arrived on the scene, and officials determined that the remains belonged to that of a white male with shoulder-length reddish-brown hair, approximately 18 to 26 years of age, who was
the victim of a homicide. Despite the best efforts of investigators, he remained unidentified. About a decade later in 1994, convicted and imprisoned serial killer Larry William Eyler confessed to his attorney, Kathleen Zellner, that he had killed the John Doe along with 20 other young men and boys. Eyler stated that he had picked up the young man around the weekend of Nov. 20, 1982, along U.S. Rt. 41 in the Vincennes area, and driven him several hours north to Jasper County, where he would later be discovered. Eyler was unable to provide a name or relevant information about the identity of the victim, but authorities concluded that he was responsible for the man’s death based on the confession.
Harrison “JJ” (Kelly) Ousley, Jeffery (Lori) Ousley, Meghan (Carlos) Delgado, and Sarah (Joseph) Copeland; brother, Brian (Boo); sisters, Dawn Brewer, Beverly Rogers, and Denise Mathis. He also leaves eight grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, cousins,
and friends. He was preceded in death and welcomed with open arms by his mother Martha (Prater) Ousley. He loved his wiener dogs just as much as his Budweiser and will be dearly missed. Celebration of life is planned for Thursday, Dec. 2, 2021, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at The
Literary Aid Society. Arrangements have been entrusted to McClain Funeral Home.
For the latest COVID-19 information, go to IN.gov.
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Classifieds
Mobile Food Pantry in Mexico Dec. 15 The Mobile Food Pantry will be at Mexico Church of the Brethren, 4460 N. Mexico Rd., Mexico, Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 11 a.m. It is being sponsored by Anthem Blue Cross and Shield. This is a drivethru distribution and no one should arrive before 10:30 a.m. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the organizers ask that all who will
Classifieds work hard so you don’t have to! Call 260. 563.8326
be receiving food remain in their vehicles.
Classifieds
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continued from Page 1 Community Calendar
Elks Walker then gave his memorial address highlighting the history of the lodge. Walker told attendees the lodge was chartered in 1897 which means in 2022 it will celebrate its 125th anniversary. The lodge moved to their current location, 122 N. Broadway, Peru in 1900. To Walker’s knowledge, the lodge is the oldest business or organization with a continued presence on Broadway in downtown Peru. After Walker’s memorial address, The PHS choir sang its final song, “Joy to the World.” The PHS Choir became a part of the memorial service in 1948 and have been at nearly every service since then. Gornto said he was happy to be a part of the ceremony. He shared some of his knowledge about the history of Peru High
December 8, 2021
Every Monday 10:30 a.m. – Movers and Shakers, a music and movement program at the Peru Public Library. Ages 0-5. Every Tuesday 10:30 a.m. – Story time at the Peru Public Library.
Get your picture taken with Santa and drop off your letter to Santa. Every Sunday
Dec. 10 2 p.m. –to 4 p.m. - Get your picture taken with Santa and drop off your letter to Santa. Dec. 8 - Jan 2
Dr. Jason Gornto, Choral Director for Peru High School, directs the choir during a performance at the Peru Elks Memorial Ceremony Dec. 5. Photo by Michelle Boswell School’s involvement with the service. “James E. Noble, when he was director at Peru High School, began the tradition of having the high school choir sing at the memorial service which is the first Sunday of December for every Elks club in the United States,” Gornto said. “The Peru High School Choir
has continued to do that every single year with the exception I believe of one year in the 1970s where a small chamber group from maybe Maconaquah performed and of course last year during the pandemic. We are happy to continue that tradition and share the music as part of their memorial service,” Gornto said. After the final
song, the “Eleven O’clock Toast” was led by Walker and the ceremony ended with the benediction. After the ceremony, Walker said he was pleased with the turnout and enjoys giving the memorial address. “It’s the one time we have a captive audience, and we can talk about the Elks and our history.”
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 765-473-3209. 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. Every Friday and Saturday 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. –
High School Class of 1960 will hold their monthly dinner at My Pizza, My Way, 647 E. Main Street, Peru.
Lights in the Airpark at Grissom Air Museum. Thursdays through Sundays, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call 765-689-8011 or email director@grissomairmuseum.com. Dec. 8 6 p.m. – Decorate some plain ball ornaments for the holidays. Learn how to use paint, ribbon, paper, and temporary tattoos to create ornaments. Sign up on Facebook, in the computer room at the library, or by calling 765-473-3069. Dec. 9 4 p.m. – The Peru
4 p.m. – Silly Safaris live Reindeer Show will be at the Peru Public Library. There will be a reindeer and other animals of the North Pole. Dec. 31 7 p.m. - Ring in 2022 with a bang at the Riverview Event Center, 421 W. Canal Street, Peru. Attendees must be 21 years of age and older. A photo ID is required. Guests will enjoy a dinner served at 7:30 p.m., and a complimentary toast (wine or champagne) served at midnight! This is a semi-formal dress event. There will be fireworks to ring in 2022. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Light Up! Peru fund. For costs and ticket information, go online to: www.eventbrite.com.
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