The City of Winter Haven is currently seeking bids for an Airport Operations Storage Facility project, including the construction of a storage structure, concrete slab, and electrical installation. Additional information and specifications are available.
For full details and to submit a bid, visit: https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/winterhavenfl
*Info provided by the City of Winter Haven
May 5th, 1956 – March 14th, 2026
Robert “Rocky” V. Caruso, Jr., 69, of Winter Haven, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026. He was born on May 5, 1956, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, to Robert Vincent Caruso and Jean Mary Faro. Rocky was a proud veteran who honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps as a lineman for three and a half years. He moved to Winter Haven on July 2, 2025, from Jackson, New Jersey, and was of the Catholic faith.
Rocky enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved reading, listening to music—especially his favorite band, The Beatles He enjoyed watching movies, Tv, game shows and baseball, faithfully cheering for his favorite team, the New York Mets or cheering for the New York Giants. He treasured time spent with those he loved most. He loved going to amusement parks or anything adventurous, playing cards or games with his brother Jerry. Rocky was deeply family-oriented, a devoted son to his mother, and known for being a playful trickster with a warm heart and a great sense of humor.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Vincent Caruso, his grandparents Fred Faro and Carmella Faro. Rocky leaves his loving mother who he cherished, Jean Mary (Faro) Bingert of Lakeland, Florida; his sister, Sharlene Caruso(Tim Banister) of Winter Haven, Florida; brother, Gerald Caruso of Winter Haven, Florida; Aunt, Julie Such of New Brunswick, New Jersey; a nephew, David and his wife Gigi Moss of Winter Haven, Florida; niece, Jessica Moss and her fiancé Dylan Cohen of Winter Haven, Florida; two great-nieces, Beverly and Imogen Moss of Winter Haven, Florida; his beloved fur babies, Daisy and Scooter ; as well as several cousins and many dear friends.
Memorial services will be held privately with the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rocky’s memory to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.
October 5th, 1935 – March 13th, 2026
Joann Elizabeth Sheffield, 90 of Winter Haven, Florida went home to be with her Lord on March 13, 2026. Born in Bowling Green, Florida, she was a lifelong resident of the area and retired from State Farm Insurance in Winter Haven after many years of service as an underwriter. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend she will be dearly missed. Joann was proceeded in death by her husband, Ernest Monroe Sheffield and one son Thomas Monroe Sheffield. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra Gail Heath, her husband Michael and daughter-in-law, Candace Sheffield. Five grandchildren, Daniel Burns, Sara Davis, Tiffany McNally, Cory Sheffield, Aaron Sheffield, and fourteen great grandchildren. Services will be private.
March 19th, 1933 – March 16th, 2026
James C. Pearce, 92, a lifelong resident of Winter Haven, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026. He was born on March 19, 1933, in Lulu, Florida, to Seth and Mertie Unice (Dicks) Pearce.
James was a proud U.S. Navy veteran who served his country honorably for four years. Following his military service, he worked for GTE (General Telephone) for thirty-five years as a communications manager. He later served as the Polk County 911 Communications Director for five years, retiring in 1995. James dedicated much of his life to serving others. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels and was an active member of the Winter Haven Sertoma Club for most of his adult years. He was an Eagle Scout and earned both Bronze and Gold Palms. He was also actively involved in youth sports, supporting Little League baseball and football, and was a member of the Winter Haven High School Booster Club. James remained a faithful member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winter Haven.
James was an avid dog lover, and in his later years he enjoyed playing golf and fishing. He loved his wife deeply—more than most ever witnessed—and was unwavering in his devotion to his family. A true family man, he was always present at his children’s games and rarely missed a single one. Known for his calm demeanor, steady judgment, and ability to solve problems, James earned the respect and admiration of all who knew him. Friends, coworkers, and fellow church members alike held him in the highest regard.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Seth and Mertie Pearce. James leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of more than 72 years, Marilyn Louise Pearce of Winter Haven, Florida; his sons, Tim Pearce and wife Lori, Randy Pearce and wife Kim, and Brian Pearce and wife Lisa, all of Winter Haven, Florida; nine grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of great pride and joy in his life.
A memorial service will be held on April 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Winter Haven, Florida. In lieu of flowers donation can be made to Good Shepherd Hospice and to the Polk County Humane Society.
October 18th, 1935 – March 23rd, 2026
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Teresa Rodriguez Matos, who departed this life on March 23, 2026, in Winter Haven, Florida, at the age of 90. Born on October 18, 1935, in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, Teresa led a life filled with love and devotion to her family and community.
Teresa was a remarkable woman known for her kindness and considerate nature. She touched the hearts of those around her, demonstrating the true meaning of compassion. Throughout her life, Teresa found joy in family time and made it a priority to create lasting memories with her loved ones. She was passionate about serving the Lord, reflecting her deep faith and commitment to her beliefs. Teresa also enjoyed road trips and had a particular fondness for seafood, often sharing meals and laughter with family and friends.
She is survived by her beloved daughters, Nydia Gregory and Sonia Pagan; brothers, Rafael, Felipe, Manuel, and Francisco, and her sister Carmen Lydia. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her spirit and values.
She will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered as a matriarch who exemplified love, strength, and grace. May she rest in peace as she reunites with her loved ones who have gone before her.
A visitation will be held April 4, 2026 at 11am at Oak Ridge Funeral Care (2425 Havendale Blvd NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881) with a funeral service to follow at 12pm.
Interment will be at Auburndale Memorial Park.
April 27th, 1935 – March 12th, 2026
R. Owen Sear, age 90, of Winter Haven, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, at Winter Haven Hospital.Owen was born on April 27, 1935, in Shanghai, China, a British citizen, to Robert Vaughan Sear and Lillian Ritchie Sear. He lived in China until 1945. During World War II he and his family were held as prisoners in a Japanese concentration camp in Shanghai for 2 1/2 years. After repatriation, the family spent time in Canada and Colombia before moving to the United States. Owen became a naturalized U.S. citizen at age 18.Owen attended Johns Hopkins University for both undergraduate studies and medical school, earning his Doctor of Medicine in 1962 with specialties in pathology and nuclear medicine. He spent most of his career as a pathologist at Winter Haven Hospital, retiring in 1997.Throughout his life, Owen enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies and interests. During college he participated in track and football and enjoyed summers lifeguarding in Ocean City, MD. Upon completing school, he earned his pilot’s license, delighting in flying his family on trips and adventures. He was an avid golfer and snow-skier, later taking up snowboarding. He competed in triathlons and loved boating. He frequently contributed letters to the editor in various publications. He had a wide-ranging taste in music and a love of dance. Owen also enjoyed weekly poker games with friends.He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Julie Sear; his son, Owen Sear, Jr.; his daughter, Kelley Sear; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his children, Shawn Rice and Ryan Sear; his parents; and his sisters, Romany Wilkinson and Dorothy Gable.A visitation will be held on March 29, 2026, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Winter Haven. A private inurnment in the church columbarium will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Grace Lutheran School Endowment Fund, 321 Ave C SE, Winter Haven, FL 33880.Owen will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family.
August 22nd, 1935 – March 17th, 2026
Bobby Grant Ketchum, lovingly known as “Pops,” entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, March 17, surrounded by the comfort of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother, and friend—whose kindness and faith left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Bobby was born on August 22, 1935, in Nettleton/Jonesboro, Arkansas, to the late Archie Ketchum and Ethel Lorene (Blagg) Faulkner. He was preceded in death by his sisters Patricia, Betty Jo, and Rachel, and brothers Roy Dan and Junior. He is survived by his loving sisters Billie Sue, Brenda, and Linda, his brother Raymond, and a large extended family who will cherish his memory.
On November 17, 1960, Bobby married the love of his life, Ruby Mae, in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Together, they shared 65 wonderful years of marriage, raising four devoted children: Carol (David) Wilkins, Tony (Cindy) Ketchum, Donna (Daniel) Carr, and Mark (Tammy) Ketchum. His legacy continues through his nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great joy and pride.
After completing his military service in the United States Army, Bobby enjoyed a long and dedicated career of over 35 years in the citrus industry, serving as a supervisor of maintenance and engineering with Adams Packing of Auburndale, Florida, and Sunkist Citrus of Ontario, California. Outside of work, he was happiest spending time outdoors—fishing, hunting, gardening and sharing stories with family and friends. Above all, his love for God and his family guided every part of his life.
A man of unwavering faith, Bobby was an active member of Berkley Chapel in Auburndale, Florida, where he found strength, comfort, and peace in his Savior, Jesus Christ. One of his favorite Bible verses, Isaiah 41:10, reflects his steadfast spirit: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, March 27, at 2:00 p.m. at Oak Ridge Funeral Care, 2425 Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Pastor John Nix of Berkley Chapel will officiate. Interment will follow at Auburndale Memorial Park.
Bobby’s faith, humor, and devotion to family will be remembered by all who were blessed to know him.
August 23rd, 1929 – March 20th, 2026
Billy M. Culbertson, Ph. D., Professor emeritus of biomaterials and materials science at The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio died on Friday, March 20, 2026, at the age of 96.
He is survived by his loving wife Catherine Laura Koenig Culbertson, whom he married on July 23, 1949, in Muscatine, Iowa. He is also survived by two children, Brian Mitchel Culbertson (Columbus, OH) and Jeffrey Daniel Culbertson (Joplin, MO). Also, he is survived by five grandchildren, Jason Herning, Aaron Herning, Adam Herning, Anders J. Culbertson and Britta Mae Culbertson, as well as two great grandchildren, i.e., Mark Herning and Nichole Herning.
He was born in Central City, KY, (August 23, 1929). The Culbertson family moved to Chicago in the early 1940’s. After serving in the Air Force during the Korean War, he enrolled in college using the GI Bill, earning a BA degree (1959) in chemistry and physics from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL. Then, he went on to earn MS (1962) and Ph.D. (1963) degrees in Chemistry and Physics from the University of Iowa.
Leaving the Univ. of Iowa in the winter of 1962, after finishing his dissertation research for the Ph.D., he took a research chemist position at the Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) Chemical Company, in Minneapolis, MN. At ADM, he became part of a new research thrust directed toward synthesis of new polymers and organic chemicals. The new ADM research laboratory was located in Richfield, MN. The work at ADM resulted in a good number of publications and several patents. In 1967 ADM Chemicals was acquired by Ashland Oil, forming Ashland Chemical Co. Ashland Chemical subsequently built a new chemical laboratory in 1971 in Dublin, OH, with Dr. Culbertson moving to that location. As a Sr. Research Associate at Ashland Chemical Co., working in collaboration with other chemists, he authored a large number of scientific publications and patents, along with several (4) books. Taking early retirement from Ashland Chemical, he joined The Ohio State University faculty as a tenured, full professor in the College of Dentistry in 1989. He collaborated with faculty in the College of Dentistry, Chemistry, Pharmacy and the Medical School on a number of NIH and other industrial grants. He and the MS and Ph. D. Degree students he mentored, as well as his post-doctoral associates, authored a large number (<200) of scientific publications as well as (<50) patents. He traveled and lectured on his research efforts in many places (<25 countries), involving many universities and industries. He received a good number of awards, i.e., Columbus Section ACS, Polymer Division of ACS Fellow, ACS Industrial Polymer Scientist Award, etc. with the most recent being named a Fellow of The American Chemical Society. A testimony to his success resides in the many students and post-doctoral fellows he has mentored doing outstanding work in government and industrial positions. Truly, Emeritus Prof. Bill M. Culbertson has demonstrated outstanding leadership, teaching research, etc. with all due to his excellent preparation as a scientist at Univ. of Iowa.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Oak Ridge Funeral Care. He will be buried in Rolling Hills Cemetery in Winter Haven, FL. Graveside Services will be held at 2:00pm, Thursday. March 26, 2026, at Rolling Hills Cemetery.
Polk County Parks and Recreation are hiring bus drivers for summer camp.
Be part of a team that supports fun, safe summer experiences for local kids.
📅 June 8 – July 31
⏰ Full-time | 40 hours per week
What We’re Looking For:
This is a seasonal, full-time position supporting our Summer Camp programs.
*info provided by Polk County Parks and Rec
PCSO Press Release
Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 23 year-old Vidal Jimenez after he assaulted an 18 year-old victim during an incident in Mulberry on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Jimenez is in the United States illegally from Mexico.
Deputies responded to Bailey Place in Mulberry regarding a possible armed disturbance. The victim told deputies the following: that he had been at a local park when two suspects approached him and asked if he was selling marijuana, and that when he told them he was not, the suspects became angry, and Jimenez began striking him. The victim said he attempted to flee, but Jimenez continued chasing him.
The victim contacted his brother and asked him to call law enforcement. The brother arrived at the park but initially could not locate him because the victim was hiding from the suspects. When the suspects found him again, Jimenez was armed with a knife and the second suspect was armed with a bottle. Both began chasing the victim, who ran toward his brother as the suspects pursued them.
A short time later, deputies observed a man matching the suspect’s description walking out of the Willow Oak Mobile Home Park. When deputies attempted to detain him, he pulled away and fled on foot. After ignoring multiple commands to stop, a deputy deployed his Taser, allowing deputies to take him into custody. Deputies are continuing to investigate the identity and whereabouts of the second suspect.
Jimenez is charged with two counts of aggravated assault without intent to kill (F2), simple battery (F3), and resisting without violence (F3). Due to his illegal status in the United States, each charge is enhanced by one degree.
“This suspect assaulted a young man, armed himself, and then tried to outrun deputies. He’s also in this country illegally. That didn’t work out for him, and it won’t work out for anyone else who tries it.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
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