Obituaries, May 23, 2025

Thomas Wayne Morehead, Keith Wayne Garst, Donald S. Marcum, James “Jim” William Auth, Edward Carl Kammeyer, Tiffany Lynne Miller, Diana Pasch-Presley

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Thomas Wayne Morehead

Thomas Morehead was born on Jan. 31, 1968, and passed away on Sept. 30, 2024. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Thomas Wayne Morehead, known affectionately to some as The Moose, Uncle Buck, and William; a beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, colleague, and dear friend to many. Thomas left us unexpectedly on Sept. 30, 2024, in Christiansted, Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. He was 56 years young.

The family wishes to acknowledge he would hate all of this — especially the being dead part — but also the pomp and circumstance of all that follows. However, since he “Irish goodbye-ed” us, we have no other course of action than to proceed, noting his general protest for such displays of adoration, affection, and the love we all feel for him, including the vast void of awesomeness his absence leaves behind.

Born on Jan. 31, 1968, in Kokomo, Indiana, Thomas grew up in a close-knit family and spent his childhood “up to no good” or “having the time of his life,” depending on who you ask. He was the proud son of Katherine “Kitty” Frances Morehead and Kenneth Michael “Daddy O” Morehead, and the brother of Steven “Albert” Michael Morehead and Dana Kay “Madge” Morehead.

From a young age, Thomas had a passion for life and personal connection, building an epically vast and cherished circle of friends. An Honor Society member at Haworth High School and general smart-ass, he was known for his wit, sense of humor and uncanny ability to light up any room he walked into. He was a passionate genealogy enthusiast, particularly focused on the Learner lineage, and proudly held the title of Learner Family Historian.

Thomas pursued higher education at Harlaxton College in England and the University of Evansville, where he pledged and became a Phi Kappa Tau brother while studying Social-Cultural Networking and Epicurean and Libation Studies. His academic journey wasn’t linear, but it was authentic — much like the man himself. These formative years laid the foundation for a life marked by exploration, learning and the pursuit of meaningful experiences with those he held in high regard.

In 2002, Thomas took a leap of faith and relocated to the U.S. Virgin Islands, initially working at Room with a View Restaurant in St. Thomas. It was in the islands that he found his true home, later settling in Christiansted, St. Croix, in 2007. His career as a Media Consultant for the Virgin Islands Daily News spanned almost two decades, during which he became a trusted advisor, talented organizer, and colleague. Described as “reliable as clockwork” and effortlessly professional, Thomas’s influence extended beyond his role — offering wisdom, humor, and friendship to everyone he encountered; Thomas was committed to and revered by the community.

Beyond his career, Thomas was a brilliant mind — a true genius — especially when it came to music. He was particularly fond of 1980s punk and new wave music though his tastes covered just about every genre. His vinyl collection alone could rival the Library of Congress in D.C. Thomas was more than just smart, though. He was a true gentleman, the life of the party, and someone who went out of his way to ensure everyone around him was having the time of their lives. With hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of lifelong friendships to his name, Thomas wasn’t just a friend, he was family to many and the Party Patriarch we never knew we needed. Whether sharing a laugh over cocktails or reminiscing about shared epic adventures along life’s path with some fine tunes playing in the background, Thomas lived life on his own terms and encouraged others to do the same.

“In 20 years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than the ones you did. So, throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” — Mark Twain.

Thomas leaves behind his father, K. Michael Morehead; his brother, Steven Michael Morehead; sister, Dana Kay Morehead; and beloved nieces and nephew, Karalena Fern Morehead (mother, Alexandria Baker), Sylvie Blanche Till (mother, Caitlin Till), and Link Learner Morehead (mother, Maureen (Wilkinson) Maple). He is also survived by his grandmother, Barbara Rose Morehead; Aunt Marcia and Uncle Dighty, Uncle Marty and Aunt Evie, Uncle Mark; cousins, Chris Morehead, Katie Davenport, Tim Switzer, Joe Switzer, Markita Morehead; and countless friends, including Randy Graf, Joe Smith, Colleen Quinn, Beth (Blondie) Webb, Gina Traylor, Matt (Happy) Holaday, Sabrina Schorm, Mike Grant, and Chris Sprinkle.

Thomas immensely enjoyed hosting all family, friends and fraternity brothers who were able to visit Saint Croix. The family expresses their gratitude also to Thomas’ neighbors. Thomas is predeceased by his mother, Katherine Frances Morehead; paternal grandfather, Kenneth Eugene Morehead; maternal grandfather, Karl Osburn Learner; and maternal grandmother, Mary Lee (Reed) Learner.

In honor of Thomas, give back to your community and lend a hand to someone in need. Be there for your friends, just as he always was. Share a shot of Wild Turkey at Thanksgiving and spin your favorite Christmas tunes — or put on some Sinatra, The Doors, The Clash or Hank Williams Jr. If you find yourself in St. Croix, visit Sylvie’s Place or Calvin’s Spratnet Beach Bar, and be sure to raise a glass in his memory.

Celebrate the life of Thomas Wayne Morehead this Saturday, May 24, 2025. Please join family and friends for an open house at the American Legion Post 6, 2604 S. Lafountain St., Kokomo, starting at 2 p.m.

Keith Wayne Garst

Keith Wayne Garst, 84, of Sheridan, entered this world in Tipton County on September 16, 1940. He passed away on the morning of Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at his daughter’s home in Tipton County, surrounded by his loving family. His parents were James S. & Irene E. (Wright) Garst. Keith spent 66 years married to Betty Ann (Featherstone) Garst who he married on October 28, 1959; a union that would produce five children.

Keith joined his dad in the roofing business before he started farming in 1963. He worked for Don Kirby Farms for 53 years, retiring in 2016. Keith really enjoyed working on the farm. He was a member of East Union Christian Church and the Odd Fellows Lodge. Keith attended Jackson Central School in Arcadia. When time allowed, Keith enjoyed camping, but the most enjoyment he received was just spending time with his family.

Survivors besides his wife Betty (who everyone called Grandma) include their children Richard A. Garst and wife Tammy of Sheridan, Patricia A. Rowland and husband Jack of Tipton, Donald W. “Donnie” Garst and wife Shelly of Arcadia, Kevin J. Garst of Atlanta, and Karen S. Handshoe and husband Earl of Lagrange. Keith also has four surviving siblings Gerald Garst and wife Jan of Sheritta, Arizona, Alberta G. Whisler of Goldsmith, Dennis G. Garst of Tipton, and Margaret I. White and husband Glenn of Kokomo. Keith was blessed with 14 grandchildren and 43 great-grandchildren.

Keith was preceded in death by one brother Charles E. Garst and one sister Wuanitta G. Phifer, a grandson Eric Garst, and two brothers-in-law Gene Whisler and Dana (Ike) Lockwood.

A funeral for Keith will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27, at East Union Christian Church, 1711 E. 296th Street, Atlanta, Indiana, 46031 with Revs. Mark Knapp and Rex Dunning presiding. Burial will be in Union Cemetery, Hamilton County. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday.

Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Garst family. Online condolences for Keith’s family may be made on his obituary page at www.young-nichols.com. Memorial contributions in Keith’s honor may be made to the East Union Christian Church.

Donald S. Marcum

Donald S. Marcum, 87, of Windfall, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. He was born January 31, 1938, in Monticello, Kentucky, to his parents Roe & Carrie (Jones) Marcum. Donald married the love of his life Louise Merideth on September 8, 1956, sharing 57 years of marriage before she passed away on February 26, 2008.

Donald retired from Haynes International after 30 years. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, turkey shoots, and steel board shooting. He was a master marksman and rarely missed a shot. He won several competitions for his shooting skills throughout the years. Donald was a very kind man who touched the heart of everyone he met. His great personality made him easy to be around. He always made others feel like they were an important part of his life. He was a true family man and was so proud of each of them! Donald’s family meant the world to him; he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Those left to carry on Donald’s legacy of love are his children Sendy (Joe) Curts, Kathy (Marty) Smith, Penny Alexander, and Stanley Marcum, grandchildren Amy, Amanda, Cory, Kevin, Regina, Bobby, Josh, Carlie, and Makayla, great-grandchildren Dakota, Meghan, Cameron, Kenzie, Kasey, Eric, Jessi, Maggie, Zoey, Jacob, Daisy, Axel, and Maxwell, great-great grandchildren Bennett, Ezra, and Kyson, sister Betty Marcum, his special friend Shirley, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Donald was welcomed into Heaven by his parents Roe & Carrie Marcum, wife Louise Marcum, and his siblings Everett Marcum, Robert Marcum, Flonnie Guffey, Goldie DeRossett, Iva Simpson, and Barb Ward.

A service celebrating Donald’s life will take place on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 314 N. Main St. in Tipton, with Pastor Allen Rawlings officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at the funeral home. Burial will take place immediately following the service at Windfall’s Brookside Cemetery. Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Marcum family in their time of need. Please feel free to leave an online condolence or share a special memory of Donald with his family on his tribute wall.

James “Jim” William Auth

James “Jim” William Auth, 98, of Kokomo, passed away 7:11 a.m. Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Community Howard Regional Health Hospital in Kokomo. He was born in Alexandria, IN, on December 2, 1926, the son of the late William and Helen (Hughes) Auth. He was married to Geneva Margaret Kelly on May 1, 1948, for 50 years, and together they raised three children. She preceded him in death on June 29, 1997. Jim married Doris (Galloway) in November of 1998, and she survives.

Jim was a graduate of Alexandria High School. He achieved his Journeyman’s card and worked at Delco Electronics as a machine builder until his retirement in 1981. Jim was a strong, brave, and independent man. He was a skilled woodworker who crafted birdhouses, model airplanes, and built his own home. He was a member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, UAW #292, Indiana Sheriffs’ Association, and Indiana Fraternal Order of Police. He was a life member of the Moose Lodge in Tipton where he would go dancing often. His favorite memories were spent in Florida or boating on Lake Manitou in Rochester, IN., with Doris and Geneva.

In addition to his wife Doris, Jim is survived by his children Steve Auth, Robert “Bob” (Robin) Auth, and Karen Pearce, grandchildren Laurie and David Johnson, Scott Marshall, Robert and Ana Auth, Emily Auth and Josh Cowgill, Patrick and Bethany Auth, and Chad and Mandi Hamblin, great-grandchildren Austin, Evan, Paige, Seth, Carlos, Victoria, Abigail, Nathan, Geneva, Madelyn, Kai, Rex, Shane, Kayleigh, Brayden, Breanna, Morgan, Tristen, Savannah, and Keagan, great-great-grandchildren Rowan, Ollie, and Wesley, stepchildren Rick and Tracey Sutherland, Jim Galloway, and Marian Sutherland, step-grandchildren Samantha and Richard Stringer, Matthew and Courtney Sutherland, Dawn and Michael Goddard, Bryan Miller, Trisica Brown, Bobbi Jean Sutherland, Michael and Kristen Galloway, and Dave and Janna Galloway, and step-great-grandchildren Tucker, Audrey, and Brody.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Helen Auth, wife Geneva Auth, daughter-in-law Marilyn Auth, stepdaughter Maryann Miller, and stepson Robert Sutherland.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Stout & Son Funeral Home – Russiaville Chapel, 200 E. Main St., Russiaville, IN 46979. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3155 S. 200 W., Kokomo, IN 46902. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10 a.m. until Mass begins on Wednesday at the church. Entombment will follow in Sunset Memory Garden. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.

Edward Carl Kammeyer

Edward Carl Kammeyer, 87, Kokomo, passed away on May 20, 2025, surrounded by his wife and two daughters. He was born October 6, 1937, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and was the son of Lucile Marie (Witzigrueter) and Carl Henry Kammeyer. He married Carolyn Sue Dixon on June 11, 1960, in Kokomo, Indiana.

Ed graduated from Fort Wayne Central High School in 1955, earned a BA degree from Earlham College in 1959, and an MA degree from Ball State Teachers’ College in 1964. He began his teaching career of 38 years at Huntertown, Indiana, (now Carroll of Allen County). In 1962, he and Carolyn moved to Kokomo where he continued his career in education, first teaching at Maple Crest Middle School, then dedicating the remainder of his career as a guidance counselor at Haworth High School and Kokomo High School.

His passion for sports and developing young people was a constant theme throughout his lifetime. Ed ran on track and cross-country teams from junior high school through college. He coached basketball while teaching at Huntertown and Maple Crest, then coached baseball with Babe Ruth summer baseball programs. At Haworth High School, he created a club for student athletes who had been awarded a letter (The Letterman’s club or H-Club). His support of youth athletes continued as a public address announcer for all Haworth High School football and boys’ basketball games (the Voice of the Huskies) and as an inspector at Kokomo Relays for 50 years. He also co-founded the DARE program in the Kokomo school system.

One of Ed’s proudest accomplishments came after graduating from Earlham College. Ed and a college friend (Neil Sowards) reenacted the journey of the Courier-de-Bois fur traders of the 17th century. This adventure began at Lake Erie, followed the Maumee River to Wabash River, Ohio River, Mississippi River to New Orleans. This reenactment entailed traveling by canoe for 1,555 miles and camping along the riverbanks for 55 days.

Ed loved spending time at the family lake home in northern Indiana. Following retirement in 1997, he and Carolyn turned their love of sports into focusing on following the athletics and activities of their five grandchildren. They enjoyed winters with friends and family in Sebring, Florida, for the majority of their retirement. They traveled extensively in retirement, including several cruises with their entire family. He attended First Friends Church in Kokomo. Ed was member of the Elks Club, Phi Delta Kappa education fraternity, the Masons, and the Scottish Rite. He was also a member of Retired ISTA and NEA, and Howard County Retired Teachers.

Ed is survived by his wife of almost 65 years Carolyn Sue (Dixon) Kammeyer, his daughters Cynthia (Chris) Baerman and Kimberly (Jeff) Matsuoka, his grandchildren Christine (Tyler) Stepp, Cameron (Jessica) Baerman, Morgan Matsuoka, Laura (Jonathan) Morales, and Kelly Matsuoka, his great grandchildren Austin and Cooper Stepp, and Jack and Jennifer Baerman, and brother Charles (Connie) Kammeyer. He was preceded in his death by his parents. The family wishes to thank Primrose Retirement Community for their love, care, and support.

A memorial service celebrating Ed’s life will take place at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, 1315 W. Lincoln Road, Kokomo, with Pastors Michael Carson and Joe Johnson. Burial will follow in New London Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Kokomo Schools Education Foundation – Kammeyer Scholarship, a scholarship fund which supports student athletes at Kokomo High School to pursue their advanced education. Memorials may be mailed to Kokomo School Corporation, 1500 S. Washington St., Kokomo, IN. 46902. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

Tiffany Lynne Miller

Tiffany Lynne Miller, 35, of Chicago, IL, formerly of Galveston, IN, passed away Sunday, May 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with breast cancer at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.

Tiffany was born November 11, 1989, in Kokomo, Indiana, to Mark and Kristy (Norris) Miller. She graduated from Lewis Cass High School in 2008 and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in Fashion Merchandising and Business at Indiana University.

Tiffany embraced life with passion and joy, and nothing brought her more happiness than her beloved dog "Charlie." She loved spending time with her family and friends and was always striving to make sure everyone enjoyed their time together. Whether it was organizing games or tackling puzzles, Tiffany was always eager to join in. She was also drawn to the adventure of global travel and was always looking forward to her next trip. Tiff was a devoted IU fan, cheering on the Hoosiers with pride. She was deeply dedicated to her career, giving it her utmost commitment and effort. She had a love for her city of Chicago and especially enjoyed the many friendships she created there. Tiffany cherished her nephews and treasured the time she spent with them.

She is survived by her parents Mark and Kristy Miller of Galveston, her sisters Devin Miller (Dustin Rodkey) and Meagan (Matt) O'Donnell, nephews Hudson, Aiden, and Noah O'Donnell, paternal grandmother Alma Miller, uncles Gary Miller and Brian Miller, aunt Kathy (Brett) Dauenhauer, and cousins Erika (Brady) Sorrells, Emily (Derrick) Aaron, Colby (Allie) Miller, and John Brian Miller (Aubrey Brands). She is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Joe and Anita Norris, paternal grandfather Jonas Miller, uncle Jerry Norris, and aunt Janet Miller Nix.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. at United in Faith Church, 515 S. Maple St. Galveston, IN, with funeral services to follow on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at the church with Pastor Bill Collins officiating. Burial will follow in Galveston Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to The IFOP Association in honor of Tiffany Miller in support of Noah O'Donnell. Murray Weaver Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. www.murrayweaverfuneralhome.com

Diana Pasch-Presley

Diana Pasch-Presley of Indianapolis died peacefully at her residence on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the age of 75. She was born in Baraboo, Wisconsin, on December 26, 1949, to Alvadore and Mary (Boyles) Pasch. She married Lewis Presley on December 27, 1985. Lewis passed in 2018.

Diana was a registered nurse and cared for her patients in Wisconsin, Texas, and Indiana, retiring after 40+ years. She had a life-long passion for learning and would take classes whenever she had time. A huge science fiction fan, she attended some of the first Star Trek conventions ever held. She was an avid book reader and dissectologist. She was best known for her contagious laughter and oddball sense of humor. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her brother Alvadore Jr. Pasch and wife Jane, niece Christina Pasch, nephews Butch (Andrea) and Benjamin Pasch, grandnieces Samantha and Nichole (Christina) Hurst, Shantyl Eastman and Evelynn (Butch) Pasch, godson Joshua Lamb, and many cousins. The family would like to send a special thank you to Diana’s neighbors RJ and Randy Cialdella, Maria Salcedo, and Ryland Rucker, who took such great care of her

A celebration of life will be held in Tomah, Wisconsin, on June 14, 2025.Young-Nichols Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to: Humane Society of Indianapolis, 7929 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268.