Obituaries, February 23, 2024

Bret Dean Rivers

Bret Dean Rivers, 69, Hemlock, passed away at 9:30 pm Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born November 8, 1954, in Crawfordsville, IN, the son of the late Ronald Dean & Carol Jean (Clore) Rivers. On October 29, 1976, in Lafayette, IN, he married Peggy Kowalski who survives.

Bret was a 1973 graduate of Northwestern High School and had attended Purdue University. He worked in sales for police and military training services. Bret was a member of First Friends Meeting and served as a Sunday school teacher and enjoyed working with the youth programs. He loved to write poetry and was in the process of writing his own novel. He loved spending time and cooking for his family and friends.

Along with his wife Peggy, Bret is also survived by his daughter, Ruth & Dr. Geoff Bowers; grandsons, Isaac Bowers and James Bowers; siblings, Curt & Allison Rivers, Tipton and Ronna Rivers, Michigan; nieces and nephews, Mitchel & Emily Rivers, Matthew & Emily Rivers, Meredith Rivers, Sarah Kelch, Jennifer Tyler, Andrea Smith and Christina Lane; sister-in-law, Janet & Grey Smith, North Carolina, along with numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Bret was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of life will be held at First Friends Meeting of Kokomo at a later date. Due to Peggy being allergic to flowers, please make memorial contributions in Bret’s memory to First Friends Meeting of Kokomo, 1801 W. Zartman Road, Kokomo. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation.

Richard E. Parks

Richard E. Parks, age 89, of Dandridge, TN, passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at his home. He was born and raised in Kokomo, IN.

He was a veteran of the United States Air Force and was an employee of the Delco Division of General Motors with 31 years of service. Following his retirement he and his wife made Dandridge their home where he was a member of Shady Gove Church.

He is proceeded in death by his wife, Marjorie Parks and is survived by their four children, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Friday, February 23, 2024, at 5:00 pm at Shady Grove Church with Rev. Dr. Jason McIntosh officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday from 4:00pm to 5:00pm prior to services at the church.

There will be a time of visitation on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM with full military rites at 2:00 PM, performed by the United States Air Force and VFW Post #1152 Military Rites Team at Sunset Memory Garden Funeral Home, 2097 West Alto Road, Kokomo, IN 46902. Private entombment will follow at Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery.

Eileen Mae Ward

Eileen Mae Ward, age 95, of Kokomo, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. Eileen was born in Kokomo , Indiana.

A time of visitation for Eileen will be held Thursday, February 29, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Ellers Mortuary, 725 S. Main Street, Kokomo, Indiana 46901. A funeral service will occur Friday, March 1, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Ellers Mortuary.

Eileen will be laid to rest in Crown Point Cemetery, 1101 E. Sycamore St., Kokomo, IN 46901.

Kevin Patrick Shane

Kevin Patrick Shane, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2024, in his hometown of Kokomo, IN. Born on June 5, 1965, to Kenneth and Rose Shane, Kevin lived a life marked by love, laughter, and dedication to his family and community.

Kevin was a proud graduate of Kokomo High School, class of 1983, where he formed friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime. His passion for technology and problem-solving led him to a successful career as a computer programmer at BA Solutions, where his intelligence and wit made him a respected figure in the workplace.

He married his soulmate, Joan, and together they celebrated 29 years of marriage filled with joy, support, and mutual respect. Their love was a beacon for their children and grandchildren, who saw in them the epitome of partnership and affection. Kevin's legacy continues through his beloved family, including his wife Joan, their children, cherished grandchildren, and one great-grandson who brought him immense pride. He also leaves behind two brothers, along with many nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.

Kevin's interests were as varied as they were passionate. An accomplished woodworker, he created pieces that were both functional and beautiful, often gifting them to friends and family. Music filled his home, and he loved nothing more than sharing his favorite tunes with his loved ones, creating a soundtrack for their lives. However, his greatest joy was found in the simple pleasure of spending time with his family, where his generosity and humor were always on display.

Those who knew Kevin will remember him as a man of great intelligence, with a quick wit that could lighten any room. His generous spirit was felt by all, as he was always ready to lend a hand or share his knowledge with others. His laughter was infectious, and his presence was a comfort to those around him.

Preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Rose Shane, Kevin's spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched. He was a man who made a lasting impact on his community and the people he loved, and his absence will be deeply felt by many.

As we say farewell to Kevin Patrick Shane, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of moments that will be cherished by his family and friends forever. His story is one of love, laughter, and the enduring power of family. Kevin's memory will be honored not just in words, but in the way we continue to embody the values he held dear.