Marie Morgan, Rebecca “Becky” Alice (McCorkle) Swails, Geraldine Forkner, Xavier D. Brunnemer, Bernard "BJ" John Raskauskas

Marie Morgan

Marie Morgan, 99, of Tipton, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025, at Century Villa Health Care in Greentown. She was born on October 12, 1925, in Delaware County, Indiana, to Grover & Hazel (Reed) Mitchener. On November 28, 1947, she married the love of her life William Morgan. The couple enjoyed 56 years of marriage together before William’s death on September 16, 2004.

Marie was a proud graduate of Fairmount High School and spent her life as a devoted homemaker. She nurtured her family and created a warm, welcoming home filled with joy and laughter. Those who knew her will remember her kind-hearted nature, her unwavering support for her loved ones, and her passion for simple pleasures, such as enjoying jigsaw puzzles in her free time.

An active member of the United Methodist Church, Marie's faith played a significant role in her life. She contributed to her community in meaningful ways, embodying the spirit of service and compassion that is integral to her church's mission. Marie Morgan's spirit will forever live on in the hearts of her loved ones, and her contributions to her family and community will not be forgotten. Her life, marked by warmth and love, serves as a reminder of the beauty found in family, faith, and cherished moments.

Marie is survived by her children Dennis Morgan and his wife Sherry of Fernandina Beach, Florida, Tim Morgan of Tipton, and Susan Huffer of Nevada, Indiana, along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was the last of nine children. She was preceded in death by her siblings Delbert, Lillian, William, Kenneth, Gilbert, Melvin, Matilda, and Clarence, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Funeral services for Marie will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 31, at Young-Nichols Funeral Home with Pastor Jodie Brown presiding. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Tipton. Visitation will be on Monday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Online condolences may be left on Marie’s obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.

Memorial donations in Marie’s honor should be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 50 East 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46240.

Rebecca “Becky” Alice (McCorkle) Swails

Rebecca “Becky” Alice (McCorkle) Swails, 95, of Kokomo, passed away 10:09 a.m. Thursday, March 27, 2025, at her home in Kokomo. She was born in Indianapolis, IN, on May 1, 1929, the daughter of the late Clyde and R. Violet (Davenport) McCorkle. On August 2, 1947, she married Stanley W. Swails, and he preceded her in death on May 9, 2002.

Becky was a 1947 graduate of Prairie Township High School in Tipton County. She achieved a Bachelor’s in Mathematics from Butler University, then a Master’s in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University. She retired from Delco Electronics as a General Supervisor in 1990 after 38 years of service. Becky was the hardest worker and provider to her family. She was family-oriented and enjoyed hosting everybody for the holidays. She was a faithful member of the ConneXion Church where she was active in several ministries. She was a 4-H leader for 30 years and often judged projects in Howard and surrounding counties. She was awarded several recognitions for her sewing, baking, and canning. Becky volunteered at the Kokomo Rescue Mission and was the leader at Community Gardens. She will be remembered for being an avid Chicago Cubs fan and for having a contagious laugh.

She is survived by her children Harry Ronald (Cindy Chaplin) Swails, Rebecca Ellen Napper, and Cindy Lu (Rudy) Suryantoro, granddaughters Kelly (John) Uncapher and Michelle (Erik) Orstead, great-grandchildren Justin (Samantha) Wogerman, Emma (Jonathon) Harrah, Madison (Nolan) Groninger, and Ethan Orstead, and great-great-grandchildren Jagger James Harrah, Addy Williams, Caiden Williams, and Jayce Wogerman.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, siblings John (Patricia) McCorkle, Carolyn (Robert) Mitchell, and Virginia (Fred) Henderson, and son-in-law Bill Napper.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at ConneXion Church, 700 E. Southway Blvd. Kokomo, IN 46902. A funeral service celebrating Becky’s life will begin 1 p.m. on Wednesday at the church with Pastor Samuel Padgett officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memory Garden. Contributions may be made in Becky’s memory to ConneXion Church or to the National Hospice Foundation. Stout & Son Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be made online at www.stoutandson.com.

Geraldine Forkner

Geraldine Forkner, 79, of Tipton, passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at The Waters of Tipton. She was born on April 1, 1945, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Thomas and Mary Elizabeth (Morgan) Rogers. In 2001, she married David M. Forkner, who survives her.

Throughout her life, Geraldine dedicated herself to her work in a communications factory in Shelbyville, where she was known for her skills in testing and repairing phones. She took great joy in spending time with her family and found happiness in crafting, gardening, and sewing during her leisure hours.

Geraldine is survived by her loving husband David, her six children Derek Shmitts, Mary Yost, Sherry Tucker, Tina Lawson, Jerri Arias-Garcia, and Robert Pitcock, one sister Linda Isgrigg, one brother Dale Rogers, as well as several adoring grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her three siblings Jimmy Rogers, Ellen Waltz, and Doug Rogers.

A private family graveside service to honor Geraldine's life will be held at Normanda Cemetery, with Rev. Jared Williams presiding over the service.

Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to assist the Forkner family in their time of need. Condolences for the family may be left on Geraldine’s obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of Geraldine may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 681405, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46268.

Xavier D. Brunnemer

Xavier D. Brunnemer, a treasured soul known for his adventurous spirit, handy skills, and thoughtful nature, left this world too soon on March 25, 2025, at the age of 32. Born on May 20, 1992, in Peru, Indiana, Xavier was a lifelong resident of his beloved hometown, where he also drew his last breath, surrounded by the warmth of his family's love.

The cherished son of Anthony Brunnemer and Amanda Thomas, Xavier grew up in a close-knit family, where he was a beacon of light and joy. He was a loving father to his son Wyatt Brunnemer, imparting the values of kindness and exploration. Xavier was a beloved brother to Zachary (Kristin) Brunnemer, Austin Brunnemer, Alexis (Andy) Lees, and Jayden Brunnemer. His role in the family extended to being a caring nephew to his aunts and uncles Brooke (Debbie) Balsbaugh and Jeff (Lynette) Combs. He was also a cherished grandson to Erich and Sue Snoke, and he held fond memories of his late grandparents James and Elaine Thomas in his heart.

Professionally, Xavier dedicated himself as a fork truck operator at Braun Ability, where his colleagues respected him for his work ethic and camaraderie. He was known to tackle challenges with a smile and could be relied upon to lend a helping hand whenever needed. His presence at the workplace was a source of positivity and strength for his team.

Xavier's zest for life was evident in his love for the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, finding peace and solitude by the water's edge. Fishing was not just a pastime for him but a passion that allowed him to connect with nature and his inner self. He also shared memorable times playing video games with his friends, where he was celebrated for his competitive yet fair play. These moments of joy and laughter created bonds that would last a lifetime.

Described as adventurous, Xavier never shied away from exploring the unknown. His adventures led him to discover new places, experiences, and friendships. His handy nature was a gift he utilized to create, fix, and improve anything he set his mind to, often to the delight and amazement of those around him. Above all, he was thoughtful, always considering the feelings and needs of others before his own.

Xavier's legacy is one of love, laughter, and the pursuit of happiness. He leaves behind a trail of cherished memories that will continue to inspire and guide his family and friends. His spirit, characterized by his adventurousness, handiness, and thoughtfulness, will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

As we bid farewell to Xavier D. Brunnemer, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and passion. We remember the son, father, brother, nephew, and friend who made our world a brighter place. Though he has departed from our sight, his spirit remains a guiding light, leading us to embrace life with the same courage and love that he exemplified.

Xavier's life will be honored in a private ceremony, where family and friends will gather to share stories, laughter, and tears, commemorating a life that, although cut short, was lived to the fullest. His departure from this earthly realm leaves a void that cannot be filled, but the memories he created will be treasured forever.

Rest in peace, dear Xavier. Your journey through this life was a testament to the beauty of the human spirit, and your memory will be held in our hearts for eternity.

City of Firsts Cremation and Funeral Services by Rose and Geiger was entrusted with the arrangements. www.cityoffirstscremations.com

Bernard "BJ" John Raskauskas

Bernard "BJ" John Raskauskas, 93, passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2025. He was born November 22, 1931, in Canton, Illinois, to the late Bernard Raskauskas and Lucille Henry.

He graduated from Canton High School in 1949 and was a member of the National Honor Society. BJ was a proud soldier in the U.S. Army, gaining the title of Second Lieutenant when he was discharged. He retired as a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserves. He later went on to attend the University of Illinois, graduating in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He continued post-graduate work at IU/PU Kokomo. BJ began working for Delco Electronics in June of 1958 until his retirement in December of 1996. He worked mainly in the automotive electronic department and was the coordinator for General Motors’ racing program. This program required him to travel to many places, including Santa Barbara and England being the most frequent. He married Marcia Lake on October 14, 1967. After retirement, they spent six months in Florida every year for 28 years. BJ was an avid golf player and member of the Kokomo Country Club for many years. He had two holes in one.

BJ is survived by his loving wife Marcia Raskauskas of Kokomo, children Julie Raskauskas and John Raskauskas, both of Carmel, sister Marilyn Scalf of Lisbon, Illinois, as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, BJ is preceded in death by his sister Carol Lafferty.

A private service will take place for BJ, officiated by his nephew Dr. Todd Lafferty and special music by Susan Lafferty.