Sheriff John A. Plasse, a respected figure in Vigo County, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at the age of 60, surrounded by his loving family. His life was marked by unwavering commitment to public service, both in law enforcement and military roles, leaving a lasting impact on his community and beyond.
Born on October 2, 1963, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to Eli John Plasse and Violet Marie Traverse Plasse, John Plasse was a lifelong resident of Vigo County. He graduated from Terre Haute North High School in 1982 and furthered his education at Indiana State University, earning a degree in 1990. These local roots deeply influenced his dedication to serving the people of Vigo County throughout his distinguished career.
Sheriff Plasse’s commitment to law enforcement spanned over three decades. He retired from the Terre Haute Police Department (THPD) in 2018 after 33 years of service. His career at THPD was diverse and impactful, starting in the uniform division and progressing through the criminal investigation and juvenile divisions, as well as the Vigo County Drug Task Force. Rising through the ranks, he was promoted to Sergeant and Lieutenant before being appointed Chief of Police on January 1, 2008, a position he held until his retirement from the department. His dedication and effectiveness were recognized throughout his THPD tenure, earning him accolades such as The Exchange Club of Terre Haute Officer of the Year in 2001 and First Financial Bank Officer of the Year in 2003, among numerous other awards.
Parallel to his esteemed law enforcement career, John Plasse demonstrated exceptional dedication to military service. He retired as a Sergeant Major from the 38th Infantry Division in the Indiana Army National Guard in November 2017, after 34 years of service to his country. Sergeant Major Plasse’s military career was decorated with numerous prestigious awards, including the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (3), and the Afghanistan Campaign Medal (3), highlighting his bravery and commitment during multiple deployments. His expertise in marksmanship was further recognized by his induction into the Association of Marksman in the National Guard Shooters Hall of Fame in 2018, distinguishing him as one of the world’s few double distinguished military marksmen.
In 2018, Sheriff John Plasse was elected Vigo County Sheriff, assuming office on January 1, 2019. His election signified the community’s trust in his leadership and experience. Reelected, he began his second term in 2023, continuing his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Vigo County residents. His tenure as Sheriff was marked by his dedication to community service and his proactive approach to public safety. Further recognition of his public service came in 2021 when he was named Wabash Valley Recovery Community Public Official of the Year, and again in 2024 with an Honor Guard recognition.
Beyond his professional achievements as Vigo County Sheriff and his decorated military service, John Plasse was deeply involved in numerous community organizations, reflecting his commitment to the well-being of Vigo County. He served on the boards of the United Way of the Wabash Valley, Boys and Girls Club of Terre Haute, Happiness Bag, and Hamilton Center. He was also an active member of the Indiana Sheriff’s Association Board, Vice President of the Indiana Sheriff’s Youth Ranch, a Life Member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 972, American Legion Post 104, AMVETS, and the Fraternal Order of Police (Past President). His affiliations also included the Association of Marksman in the National Guard, National Sheriff’s Association, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police, demonstrating his wide-reaching influence and dedication to professional development and community engagement.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Eli John and Violet Marie Plasse. Sheriff Plasse is survived by his wife, Julie Plasse; his son, Ryan Plasse of Terre Haute; daughters, Bryttany Dunkley (Jeremy) of New Goshen, and Dylaney Plasse of Terre Haute; brother, Robert David Plasse (Diane) of Louisiana; sister, Carol Jones of Terre Haute; and three grandchildren, Brynley, Bryley, and Bentley. He is also survived by his mother and father-in-law, Georgia and Jerry McIntyre, sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jennifer and Mark Boyll, nephew, Jaden Brown (Sarah), and nieces, Kyleigh Shell (Trevor), and Kaleigh Riley (Corey), along with numerous other nieces and nephews.
Services to honor and celebrate the life of Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse will be held on Monday, July 29, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Hulman Civic Center, 200 North 8th Street, Terre Haute, IN 47809. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. Noon until the service time at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Highland Lawn Cemetery in Soldiers Circle. Pastor Billy Joe Henry will officiate the service. The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to your local Animal Rescue of choice, reflecting Sheriff Plasse’s compassionate nature. Arrangements are under the direction of Greiner Funeral Home. Online condolences may be offered at www.greinerfuneralhome.com.
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