Stanley E. Dearing

Stanley E. Dearing, 93, of Ft. Branch, IN passed away Sunday, December 28, 2025 at RiverOaks Health Campus in Princeton, IN. He was born January 1, 1932 in Ft. Branch, IN to Fred Dearing and Macy (Mead) Dearing. Stanley graduated from Owensville High School in 1949. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict from 1952 until 1954. Stanley married Ruth (Riddle) Dearing, November 8, 1952 and was blessed with 73 years together. He was a part owner with his brother Wayne of Owensville Lumber and lifelong farmer. Stanley was also known to do stand up comedy under the stage name Wille Makitt. In his earlier days, he enjoyed playing many sports. He also enjoyed watching all kinds of sports, especially Purdue basketball. After retiring from farming, he continued his love of the land by planting a large garden each year, a pastime he greatly enjoyed. He held great faith and was a devoted Christian. Stanley enjoyed spending time reading his bible, relaxing in his sun room at home, and listening to music. Stanley enjoyed expressing his creative side by writing poetry and creating art. He would take vacations to Florida and walk the beach for miles to collect shells. Stanley would create the most unique and beautiful things out of the shells. He loved traveling with his wife, Ruth, and would take monthly trips down to Mountain View, Arkansas. There they spent time enjoying the folk music and Stanley performing, however he mostly enjoyed helping the people there. Stanley will be remembered as a very patriotic man. He would make sure to honor and pay tribute to our flag and what it stood for. Stanley was a member of the American Legion, VFW, and Retired Military Veterans Honor Guard for 15-20 years. He volunteered his time to pay respects to and give proper military funerals to countless numbers of veterans in our area. Stanley loved his country and loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will truly be missed by many.

Stanley was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Marilyn (Kenneth 'Pete') Wallace and Wayne Dearing.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Dearing; daughter, Beverly (Ken) Goedde; brother, Donnie (Clara) Dearing; sister-in-law, Marilyn Dearing; grandchildren, Evan (Natasha) Goedde and Alyssa (Brett) Lasher; and great-grandchildren, Draven, Livia, Macy, Theodore, and Cora Ruth.

A graveside service will take place 1 PM Friday, January 2, 2026 at Mt. Moriah Cemetery. Dr. Ray Barber officiating and military rites given by the Retired Military Veterans.

Memorial donations may be made to American Legion Post 51 for the Retired Military Honor Guard.

Condolences and memories may be left online at colvinfuneralhome.com. The Colvin Funeral Home is honored to serve the Dearing family.