Legacy Zimmer

03/10/2026

The Zimmer Biomet Club is requesting your assistance. If you have any comments or questions please feel free to contact Kathy at kathy.miles@zimmerbiomet.com

03/08/2026

Jack E. Parr, 86, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, after a brief illness. He was born in Mansfield, Ohio, on July 27, 1939, to Andrew Bruce Parr and Ada Arta Keller Parr.

Jack spent his early childhood in West Virginia, where at age six he survived a life-threatening accident that resulted in severe burns to both lower legs. After nearly a year of intensive medical treatment and recovery, he returned to school having missed all of first grade. This experience shaped his life in profound ways. He went on to excel academically and athletically, with particular strengths in science and football.

In 1958, Jack graduated from Tyler County High School as a National Merit Scholar. He attended West Virginia University, majoring in chemistry, and after earning his undergraduate degree in 1962, he moved to Indiana to pursue doctoral studies in organic chemistry at Purdue University. While at Purdue, he met Karen Burrin, the love of his life, and they were married in 1966.

Jack’s greatest passions were his family and his career. He achieved remarkable professional success, earning more than a dozen medical device patents and holding membership in distinguished organizations including the Society For Biomaterials, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He began his career as a researcher at DuPont and later devoted much of his professional life to advancing materials for hip and knee replacements. He served as Vice President of Research at Zimmer in Warsaw, Indiana, and later as Executive Vice President of Research and Development and Chief Scientific Officer at Wright Medical Technology in Memphis, Tennessee, before retiring in 2004.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jack was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He doted on his wife, Karen, and their three children. Jack and Karen shared a love of travel and enjoyed hosting gatherings for their close circle of friends. He rarely missed his children’s sporting events and concerts and took great joy in spending time with his grandchildren. He also found peace in gardening and working in the yard, cultivating a home life that beautifully balanced his demanding career.

Jack traveled extensively for his work, including trips to Japan, throughout Europe, and across the United States, where he enjoyed fine dining and golfing on spectacular courses. No matter where his career took him, he always loved coming home to his family and never lost his West Virginia roots.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Boyd and Bill; and his beloved wife, Karen. He is survived by his three children: Drew (Lina) Parr, Amy (J.J.) Sinnema, and Suzanne (Eric) Olson, as well as eight cherished grandchildren: Lindy, Sammy, Ben, Ryan, Katie, Meghan, Ginny, and Nick.

A funeral service celebrating Jack’s life will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m., at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th Street, Indianapolis. Interment will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Waynetown Masonic Cemetery in Waynetown, Indiana, where he will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jack’s memory to the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation.

03/03/2026

ZB retiree breakfast tomorrow 9 am Don Pablo’s.

02/20/2026

Thomas W. Ramey
Thomas “Tom” W. Ramey, 90, of Warsaw, passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Parkview Hospital, Warsaw, surrounded by loved ones.

Born November 5, 1935 in Volga, Kentucky, he was one of four children to Arthur and Mary (Campbell) Ramey.

Tom enlisted in the Army in August of 1954. He married Georgia L. Canterbury on August 27, 1960 in Emma, Kentucky. They spent 62 wonderful years together until her passing in 2021.

Tom worked for Zimmer as a machinist retiring in 2000. In his spare time, he enjoyed breakfast with his friends, traveling, golfing, and flying. Tom enjoyed music of all kinds, and was a talented guitar and banjo player.

He attended First Free Will Baptist Church of Kosciusko County and Warsaw Family Worship Center.

Tom is survived by several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Georgia, and brothers, Eugene and John and sister Rushe.

A service in Tom’s honor will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 10-12:00 pm at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel, with services following. Pastor William Whitaker will be officiating the service. Interment will follow in Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Warsaw Family Worship Center, 1250 Husky Trail, Warsaw, Indiana 46582.

02/13/2026

It’s back!

Amish Acres Arts and Craft Festival returns August 2026. Vendors please book your booth space now!

02/12/2026

M. Elaine Helvey, 90, passed away peacefully at Paddock Springs Health Campus in Warsaw on Thursday morning February 5, 2026.
Born in Morocco, Indiana on May 22, 1935, she was one of two girls born to Earl and Marjorie (Porter) Long. She graduated from Warsaw High School with the class of 1953.
She married Jack Albert Helvey on February 14, 1953 in Warsaw, Indiana and they would settle on Winona Lake after his military discharge and raise three girls. He would proceed her in death on March 2, 2015.
A dedicated, organized and hard-working woman, Elaine started off working as the secretary for Brooks Dalton at Dalton’s Foundry in Warsaw. This led him to starting Big Boy Products where she would also follow and work as his secretary. Elaine lastly worked for 25 years for Zimmer. She began as a secretary but then began medical education all over the country. This was a fond memory for her kids as they were able to travel to these fun places with her.
In her younger years, she was a member of Tri Kappa and enjoyed helping with the Red Stocking Review. She was also member of the First United Methodist Church in Warsaw. After retirement and now permanent residence in Fort Meyer’s Beach, Florida with Jack, she joined the Dancing Grannies in their Bayside Estates subdivision.
Elaine was well read and loved completing hard crossword puzzles. She was artistic, enjoying drawing and painting the windows in their home for the holidays.
She is survived by her daughters, Debra Miller of Silver Lake and Penny Helvey of Warsaw, and grandchildren, Neil Harris and Amy Harris.
Elaine was preceded in death by her husband; her daughter Diane Jones in 2025; her sister Barbara Long in 2008 and her parents.
Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapels, 2290 Provident Court, Warsaw.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, in the funeral chapel.
Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Animal Welfare League, 1048 S. 325 E., Pierceton, IN 46562.

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02/11/2026

Those that have given me your email address, did you get the ZB newsletter today? If you haven’t, send me a message with your email and I’ll have them check and get you properly included. If you’re not set up and want to be, message me your email and I’ll submit it. Newsletter includes ZB club events, discounts, classified ads.

02/11/2026

Martha L. Sellers, of Warsaw, was called home on Monday, February 9, 2026, at Millers Merry Manor in Warsaw at the age of 88. Born on March 4, 1937, in Imboden, Arkansas, she was the daughter of William Owen and Eula Wi******er (Weir). Martha carried her roots with pride throughout her life and embodied a presence that resonated deeply with all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Martha worked in the wax room at Zimmer, where she dedicated herself to her work until her retirement. Following this chapter, her vibrant personality shone through as she took on the role of Hostess at several local restaurants. Those who encountered her quickly learned that she never met a stranger, and her spunky and sassy demeanor made her memorable to many.

Martha was also a member of the Warsaw Evangelical Presbyterian Church and previously attended First Brethren Church in Warsaw, reflecting her deep faith. She also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life including watching birds outside. She also loved lighthouses and enjoyed collecting them.

Family was the cornerstone of Martha's life. She is survived by her children, Bill (Mary Beth) Sellers of Traverse City, Michigan; Teresa (Joel) Pratt of Asheville, North Carolina; Krista (Tim) Baker of Warsaw; and Nicole Sellers of Warsaw; grandchildren, Layla, Adam, Elyse, Justin, McKenzy, Mason, Landon, and Jordan, along with her 11 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. In addition, she found companionship in her precious dog, Kobe, who brought her comfort and joy in her later years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Michele Renee and her nine siblings.

Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw is entrusted with the care of Martha. Per her wishes, no public services will be held. To leave a condolence, please visit

Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services provides cremation and funeral services for Warsaw, Syracuse, & North Webster Indiana call us for immediate assistance at 574-267-3104.

01/31/2026

Retirees monthly breakfast is this Wednesday, February 4, 9 am at Don Pablo’s. Not sure I’ll be able to be there but enjoy!

01/26/2026

Jerry Lee Smith, lifelong resident of Kosciusko County, peacefully passed away in his home with his wife by his side on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on Dec. 9, 1939, in North Webster, he was the son of Keith and Verna Smith (Amsden). Jerry was a proud graduate of North Webster High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Navy.

After his military service, Jerry built a fulfilling career as a polisher for Zimmer, where he devoted 26 years before retiring. Throughout his life, he was known for his strong work ethic, which he instilled in those around him.

On May 22, 1965, Jerry married the love of his life, Jacquelynn Hamman, who lovingly stood by his side throughout their years together. Their partnership was characterized by a deep love for their family and a shared joy for life’s simple pleasures.

Jerry found joy in many hobbies, including fishing, traveling and gardening. He also was an avid Green Bay Packers and Notre Dame fan. Most of all, Jerry loved his family and enjoyed indulging in family activities such as spending time outdoors and grilling.

Along with his wife, Jackie, and their children, Lisa (Steve) Light, Shelly (Mark) Alber, Keith Smith and Jennifer Smith Reagan, his legacy extends to his grandchildren, Ashley (Cory) Starkweather, Conner (Lisa) Shepherd, Joshua (Alexis) Light, Caleb (Laura) Light, Zach Alber, Hannah (Landon) Newsome, Jordan Alber, Michael Smith and Emily (Dylan) Roberts, along with 11 great-grandchildren, with one on the way. Jerry is also survived by his brother, Jack (Loretta) Smith, and his special dog, Rocky, as well as many extended family members and friends. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Don; and sister, Charlotte.

Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Warsaw, is entrusted with Jerry’s Life Celebration. Friends and family may gather for visitation from 10 a.m. until noon Thursday, Jan. 29, at Capstone Free Methodist Church (formerly Walnut Creek Church), 2033 S. 150W, Warsaw, with the memorial service beginning at noon. To leave a condolence or send flowers, please visit TitusFuneralHome

01/14/2026

Richard "Dick" "Cowboy" Staley Obituary

Richard B. “Dick” “Cowboy” Staley, 80, Syracuse, was called home by our heavenly father at 4:32 p.m. Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born March 28, 1945, in Olney, Illinois, to Gerald D. & Kathleen (Smith) Staley. On July 20, 1968, he married Shirley Jean (Rurak) Staley.

Surviving are his wife, Shirley, Syracuse, son, Shane Staley, Elkhart, grandchildren, Brittani Staley, Middlebury & Logan Staley, Middlebury, 3 great-grandchildren, Riley, Carson & Chloe, a sister, Carolyn Pashea, Magnolia, Kentucky & niece, Melissa Pashea, Magnolia, Kentucky.

Preceding him in death are his parents and a son, Travis Staley.

Cowboy lived a full Life: After graduating high school, he and two of his close high school friends, Terry Lile & Gerald Burd, father of (Billy Burd), joined the Air Force, on the buddy system. While serving in the Air Force (1963-1967), he met his beloved wife, Shirley in the upper, New England states. They married in the late 1960’s and moved to the Northern Indiana area, Syracuse, Indiana. In college, he majored in Forestry. He worked for many years, in the trailer industry. Being a talented craftsman, he & close friends helped build, their home in Syracuse, where he resided until the Lord called him home. Unsure of the year, he landed his last employer: Zimmer Biomet, where he invested wisely & was able to retire in 2001, at the young age of 51 and enjoyed life!! Cowboy loved his family, friends, and Furbabies and spent time with them all, every chance he would get. He loved to laugh, smile and give someone else a smile. He and his wife, & family loved traveling. Their travels took them to Europe, Canada and several of the US states, as well. Cowboy was a gunsmith for several years in the Northern Indiana area and an avid fisherman, and guide on the local lakes in Syracuse Indiana, surrounding areas & Lake Michigan. He loved nature, the outdoors, boating & camping. Cowboy never met a stranger and loved to talk!! He was the type of person who would give the shirt off his back, and would help anyone in need. His hearty laugh & precious smile will be dearly missed!!

A celebration of life will be 12-2 p.m. Saturday, January 17, 2026, followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m., all at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, 311 S. Main St., Goshen, Indiana 46526. Pastor Marc Stutzman will officiate. Memorial donations may be directed to Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, 1530 Wilson Blvd., Suite 550, Arlington, VA 22209

Online condolences may be sent at

Rieth-Rohrer-Ehret Funeral Homes in Goshen, IN provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surroun... Learn More

01/07/2026

Plrase see funeral home website for photos

Verlon Caldwell Jr. Obituary

Verlon Charles “Chuck” Caldwell, Jr. traded his pain on this earth for a new home with Jesus on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Blair Ridge Health Campus. He had been diagnosed with cancer 4 years ago. Chuck was born to Verlon Charles Caldwell Sr. and Gerlene Faye (Hatton) Caldwell on September 25, 1956. He was born and raised in Peru, Indiana.

Chuck graduated from Peru High School. And then went on to earn an Associate’s degree from Indiana University, a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. Before retirement, Chuck was an employee at Square D in Peru for 13 years, Zimmer Biomet in Warsaw for 21 years and Chrysler in Kokomo for 10 years.

In his early adulthood, he was active in bowling, golfing and playing men’s softball on a well-known Peru team called the Moby’s. And, he loved mowing his yard on his zero turn John Deere tractor. In the last few years, Chuck used his artistic ability by creating no-sew quilt canvases that he enjoyed gifting to others. He attended East Pointe Bible Church in Peru.

Chuck married the love of his life, Diana (Kanippe) Caldwell on June 4, 1978. They spent over 47 years together- 40 of those living in their home in Mexico, Indiana. He had 1 daughter, Abbey Michelle. And also 2 grandsons, Colton Gilbert and Julian Conrad, who were the absolute joys of his life. He was so proud of them.

Chuck is survived by Diana and his 2 grandsons. He is preceded in death by both his parents and daughter.

Chuck’s wishes were to be cremated. However, a Celebration of his Life will take place at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana on Thursday, January 8, 2026 from 5:00pm-7:00pm. A memorial service will follow at 7:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions towards the post high school education of grandsons, Colton and Julian, may be received at the funeral home or mailed to Diana at their home.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Verlon Charles "Chuck" Caldwell Jr., please visit our floral store.

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