Gerald Born, 81, of Morocco, Indiana passed away at his home on Tuesday, May 30, 2017. He was born in Hammond, Indiana on May 16, 1936, the son of John Warren Born and Sarah Gay (Nichols) Born.

He received his elementary education in the schools of Morocco and graduated from Morocco High School. He received his liberal arts degree in world religions and history and political science from Butler University in Indianapolis, and an advanced degree in library science and history of fine arts from Indiana University in Bloomington.

Gerald had a passion for religion, libraries and publishing. He served as Director of Library Services for Columbus, Indiana and as a director of the Chicago Library Association.

Gerald was a respected Newton County historian and author. He was the Director of the Beaver Lake Museum and Two Rivers Reference Library. He was often called upon to share his knowledge and collection of old photographs with others interested in local history.

His parents first met at Conrad School; they both graduated from that school. For all of his childhood he was regaled with stories about Beaver Lake, Conrad, Lake Village, and Morocco and the people who lived in the neighborhoods. To Gerald, it only seemed natural to write about these things.

He compiled, wrote and published his own local newspaper, The Morocco Times. He attended many local meetings and reported the hometown news to his friends and neighbors.

He enjoyed collecting antiques and had his own business, Born Antiques, specializing in a general line of antiques tending to high-end items. His collection included porcelain, original art and oriental items.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, John Warren Born and Sarah Gay Born; and his brother, Gordon Born.

A memorial service for Gerald will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2017 at 11 a.m. (CDT) at the Morocco First United Methodist Church, 203 S. Clay Street. Rev. Wayne Williams officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of service. Steinke Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Share memories and condolences online at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.