Warner Freese

Warner “Buster” William Freese, age 85, of Covington, IN passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on October 15, 2026, at Franciscan Hospital in Lafayette, IN.

Warner was born on June 14, 1941, in Shelby, OH to Milan and Helen Barkdull Freese.

Warner graduated from Shelby High School in 1959. He then attended Duke University, and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering in 1963. While at Duke, he was a member of the Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity. Additionally, Warner completed a Graduate School of Business Management Program with the University of Michigan in 1978.

In July of 1963, Warner started his career with the Quaker Oats Company in Chicago, IL. He advanced to Marion, OH, Cedar Rapids, IA and Shiremanstown, PA, serving as Project Engineer, Sr. Engineer and Engineering Manager. He was a Certified Professional Engineer in Indiana and Illinois. Warner was dedicated to the company and was very instrumental in the start up of the Danville Quaker Oats plant. After 39 years of service, he retired to become a farmer, hunter, guide, advisor, and grandpa.

In 1963, Warner married Carol Ann Davis, whom he had met at Duke University. For 61 wonderful years, they shared a love for family, hunting, vacationing, and contributing to their community. Over the years, Warner was also a proud supporter of Carol Ann’s business, House with the Lions Antiques.

Warner is survived by his wife, Carol, and his daughters, Jane-Ann Freese-Chapman (Brian) of Blackstone, MA, and Susan Davis Reynolds (Steve) of Covington, IN. He leaves behind four grandchildren whom he adored: Erin Marie Reynolds (24) of St. Pete, FL, Jada-Jane Caroline Chapman (23) of Blackstone, MA, Cora Jane Reynolds (22) of Irving, TX, and Brock Warner Chapman (22) of Tuscaloosa, AL. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Jane Phipps of Kokomo, IN and several nieces and nephews. Warner also leaves behind his special hunting and bridge buddies, along with many other friends and their families.

Warner was a member of the Covington United Methodist Church. He was a 50-year member of the Scottish Rite, a 50-year 32nd Degree Mason, Past Master of the Covington Masonic Lodge #60, a member of the Western Indiana Shrine Club, and a member of the Knights of Pythias. He was a board director for Danville, IL Junior Achievement, and received a national award for his contribution and service. He enjoyed working on his farms, going for country rides and playing bridge with friends. Warner instilled reverence and respect for wildlife and wildlife management in his family, and he especially loved hunting with them. He was passionate about wildlife, game and land conservation (supported through local chapters of Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, National Rifle Association, National Wild Turkey Federation, etc.). Warner proudly initiated the Quaker Oats Big Buck Contest, and his personal “Mill Creek Hunting Camp,” which he ran for over 40 years.

The family will celebrate his life and memory with services on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Covington Chapel 420 3rd Street Covington, Indiana 47932. Visitation will be held from 1-3pm, and a funeral service will follow at 3pm. Masonic Services will be held before the service with private graveside services following the 3pm service. The services are to be conducted by Pastor Andy Harkleroad of Covington First Baptist Church and Pastor Noel Whiteman of Covington United Methodist Church.

The family would like to extend a special appreciation to Andy Harkleroad for his devotion and assistance. Please join Warner’s family in sharing pictures, videos, and memories on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com

Memorial contributions can be made to Covington United Methodist Church or to the Western Indiana Community Foundation.