Keith Stoner

Keith Laverne Stoner, 85, of Worthington Indiana, passed away May 6 in the home that he loved and lived in for 52 years.

He was born Dec. 1, 1933, in Randolph County, Indiana, to the late Harold L. and Vera E. Orr Stoner.

He married his loving wife Hazel Marie Barger on Oct. 2, 1959, at the West Walnut Christian Church, Portland, Indiana. Together they raised a devoted family, enjoying family camping trips and spending time outdoors.

Keith was an avid collector and enjoyed meeting people wherever he went, never having met a stranger. He was especially proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandkids and the joy and laughter they brought to the home.

Keith graduated from Portland High School in 1953 and served in the United States Navy from 1953 to 1957, serving on the USS Des-Moines CA 134 (The Daisy Mae) during the Korean War. He enjoyed the experience of traveling throughout the Mediterranean, which sparked his love for travel. He retired from the federal government after 25 years working as a health and safety coal mine inspector.

After his retirement, he and Hazel spent much time traveling the 50 states and abroad, including annual trips to Pennsylvania to attend the USS Des-Moines ship reunion.

He was a member of Linton Christian Church, Prime Timers, American Legion of Worthington, Greene County and Jay County historical societies, NRA and the Worthington Senior Citizen Center.

Family left to cherish include his wife of 59 years, Hazel, and their six children, Bruce L. (Robin) Stoner, Linda M. Albright, Sharon M. (Randy) Fields, Brenda K. Stoner of Columbus, Brian L. (Sabra) Stoner and Barry A. Stoner; grandchildren Brent (Jessica) Stoner, Helen (Garrett) Buis of Coal City, Brady Stoner, Brooklyn Stoner, Mason Stoner and R.J. Fields; great-grandchildren BretNi Hansel, Corbin Waite, Elliannah Buis, Brantley Stoner, Tristan Buis and Bailee Stoner; sister Marilyn M. (Talma) Gribble; niece Kathy (Tom) Graham and nephew Robert (Erin) Klingshirn.

He was preceded by his parents, Harold L. and Vera E. Orr Stoner. Brother in-law, Dwayne L. Klingshirn and Son in-law, Walter E. Albright.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, May 10, 2019, at the Welch & Cornett Funeral Home, 23 South Jefferson St., Worthington. Pastor will officiate. Burial will follow in Worthington Cemetery.

Visitation will be 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 9, 2019, and again 11 a.m. until the time of service Friday, all at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Linton Christian Church, Worthington Sonshine Food Pantry or the donor's choice.