Ivan Sizemore

PENDLETON — Ivan Sizemore, 85, of Pendleton, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, at Bethany Pointe Health Campus in Anderson with loved ones near.

Ivan was born on June 11, 1940, in Big Creek, Clay County, Kentucky, to Barrett and Delora (Ross) Sizemore. He proudly carried his Appalachian roots with him throughout his life, never losing his Kentucky accent or the kind of humility that comes from knowing beans don’t shell themselves. He had been a resident of Madison County for 50 years.

A 1961 graduate of Clay County High School, Ivan served his country in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Knox. After his service, he built a life grounded in hard work, faith, and family. He was employed by Allison Transmission in Indianapolis for over 30 years, retiring in 2009.

Ivan was a devoted follower of Christ and served faithfully as an Elder at New Covenant Ministry Center in Anderson. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now at peace in heaven.

He had a lifelong love of music and enjoyed playing bass guitar, as well as hunting, fishing, and tinkering with cars. Known for his quiet consistency and gentle sense of humor, Ivan was a steady presence wherever he went. He took life at his own unhurried pace, often driving far below the speed limit, but never failing to arrive at his destination at least a half hour early. His calm spirit, quick wit, and kind heart made him a favorite not only among friends and family, but also among the caregivers who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Betty Jean (Spurlock) Sizemore, whom he married on June 26, 1965; his children, Michael (Jill) Sizemore of Pendleton and Angela (Joseph Matthew) Shelton of LaPorte; grandchildren, Marie-Claire (Adam) Menard and Samson Sizemore; Kiley Shelton, Katelynn Shelton, and Colton Shelton; siblings, James Sizemore, Hubert Sizemore, Charles Sizemore, Ruth Ann Sizemore, Linda Sizemore, and Doris Hornsby; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Arnold, Kenneth, Eugene, and Ralph Sizemore.

A visitation will be held from 12 to 2 p.m., Friday, January 9, 2026, at Bozell Funeral Homes and Crematory, Lahm Chapel, 211 E. State St., Pendleton with services beginning at 2 p.m. with Pastor Joseph Shelton and Pastor David McConnell officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in Huntsville Cemetery, Pendleton.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to New Covenant Ministry Center, 1224 East 44th St., Anderson, IN 46013.

Online condolences available at www.bozellfuneralhomes.com