John H. Surber

John H. Surber, age 70, formerly of New Castle, passed away Friday, September 5, 2014 at his residence in Indianapolis. He was born March 28, 1944 in New Castle, Indiana to the late Hershel “Doc” Surber and Mary Surber Brown.

John graduated from New Castle High School in 1962 and completed a career as the Design Director at L.S. Ayers & Co. He was also responsible for facilitating unique Christmas animated windows. He was also a co-proprietor of Park Avenue Antiques and coordinated activities to get Fletcher Place of Indianapolis placed on the National Registry of Historical Places. He recently moved back to Indiana (Avon) after living in Missouri and New Albany, Ohio. His dedication to helping mankind was exemplified as a member of the Mystic Tie Lodge #398 F&AM and Indianapolis Valley Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. He was a long time supporter of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. He always enjoyed people and laughing with them, as well as his flower garden. John loved animals and had worked at a local veterinarian office.

Survivors include long time partner and soul mate of Richard H. Meier of Avon, a sister: Joyce Atkinson of New Castle; nephews: Jerry (fiancée Joann) Atkinson of Richmond, Larry (Greta) Atkinson of Greensburg, and Gary Atkinson (Michelle) of Wabash; and several great and great-great nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Joann Surber; and a brother-in-law, Ellis Atkinson.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 10, 2014 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle with Reverend Jerry Ingalls officiating. Friends may call from 5 - 8 pm on Tuesday at the funeral home. Masonic services will be held at 7:30 pm on Tuesday. Memorial contributions may be given to the Henry County Humane Society, 11 Midway Drive, New Castle, IN 47362. You may express condolences or share a memory of John at www.hinsey-brown.com .