Mary Louise (Hatch) Grier, 57, of Hiawatha, Kansas, passed away Friday, April 28, 2017, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.

Mary was born in Falls City, Nebraska, August 15, 1959, to Delbert Dwayne and Marilyn Maureen Hatch. She went to high school at Falls City and graduated in 1977.  Mary married Barry Lamont Grier, August 21, 1983 and had made Hiawatha their home all of their married life.  She went on to get her CNA and CMA and worked at Ketter Manor in Falls City.  She also worked at Hiawatha Place and Maple Heights Nursing Home; and in later years, at Champs Chicken at Lindy’s Thriftway, all in Hiawatha.

She loved family game nights; playing Liverpool, Yahtzee, and various other board games. She enjoyed taking night time cruises with her husband Barry; also watching cooking shows and having her grandchildren stay the night with them.

Survivors include her husband Barry of the home; three children: Courtney Large (34), Kyle Grier (28), and Caleb Grier (23), all of Hiawatha; a brother David Hatch (Cindy) of Sabetha, KS.  As well as, a number of grandchildren, many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and a grandson Christopher Winder.

A Celebration of Mary’s life is planned for 11 a.m. Thursday, May 4, at the Fisher Community Center in Hiawatha. Malcolm Grier will officiate.  Interment will follow at the Hiawatha Cemetery, with lunch immediately following for family and friends at the Fisher Community Center.

The family will meet with friends from 6:30 until 8 Wednesday evening at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.

Memorial contributions to be made in her name to help with funeral costs, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

Elizabeth L. “Betty” Buehler, 94, of Hiawatha, died Saturday, April 29, 2017, at the Hiawatha Community Hospital.

Survivors  include three daughters:  Barbara Mitchell, Mary Ann Edds, Janet Mendez; brother Robert Lehnherr, sister Dorothy Zimbelman.

A Celebration of Betty’s life is planned for 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, at the First Presbyterian Church in Hiawatha.

The family will receive friends from 11 until 1 p.m. just prior to service at the Church.
Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha, is in charge of arrangements.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Megan Kay Mooney, 27, of Hiawatha, died unexpectedly Saturday, April 29, 2017, at her apartment in Hiawatha.

Survivors include her parents Michelle and Terry Mooney, her brother Christopher Mooney, paternal grandmother Sharon Mooney, all of White Cloud, and maternal  grandmother Connie Knight of Leavenworth.

Cremation is planned with a Celebration of Megan’s life at 10 a.m. Friday, May 5, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha.  Family and friends are invited to the George Ogden Community Building on the Iowa Reservation immediately following service for fellowship and lunch.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Brown County Humane Society, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Dorothy E. Gerhardt, 77, Missouri Valley, IA, formerly of Netawaka, KS passed away January 20, 2017, in Missouri Valley, IA.

A memorial Graveside Service will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 6, 2017, at the Netawaka Cemetery.

The Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is assisting the family.

To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.
 
 

Terry William ‘Butch’ Ball, 76, a lifelong Atchison resident and Pharmacist, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, April 26, 2017.

Memorial services have been set for 10:00 AM on Tuesday, May 2, 2017, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB, will be officiating. Burial will follow at the Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Atchison. Family will receive friends from 6:00pm to 8:00pm on Monday, May 1, 2017, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Atchison YMCA, Atchison Achievement Services or The University of Kansas School of Pharmacy and may be sent to the funeral home. Words of comfort and sympathy may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Butch was born on March 5, 1941 in Atchison, the son of Max and Zilpha (Cummings) Ball. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1959 and from The University of Kansas School of Pharmacy in 1965. Upon graduation, Butch was drafted into military service with the United States Army and served his country honorably from 1966 to 1968. After completing his military commitments, Butch returned to Atchison with his family and began working for his father (Max) and his uncle (Merle) at Ball Brothers’ Drug Store at 733 Commercial. A year later, in 1969, he purchased his uncle’s stake of the business and became partners with his Dad. He subsequently became the sole proprietor of the store in 1975 after purchasing Max’s half of the business. Butch purchased Domann’s Drug Store in 1992. He merged the two businesses, and moved to the larger Domann’s building at 504 Commercial and closing the 733 Commercial Street location. Butch’s son Chad followed in his footsteps by becoming a pharmacist and going to work for his father in 2001. Chad eventually bought the business from Butch in 2009, and he and Butch continued to work side by side until Ball Brothers’ Drug Store closed its doors for good in 2011. Butch served the Atchison Community, which he dearly loved, for over forty-six years as a pharmacist. He was known for his ability to connect with his customers and for always having the people of Atchison’s best interest at heart. Ever the people person, Butch loved to keep busy, so in 2013, he earned his realtor’s license and was currently working for United Country Realty in Atchison. He was thoroughly enjoying his second career.

Butch was member of the Atchison Elk’s Club, Bellevue Country Club, Past-President of the Fellowship Club, and served on the Board of Directors for the Atchison YMCA. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Atchison Achievement Services, and Valley Hope. He was a member of the Kansas Pharmacist Association, the National Community Pharmacy Association and the University of Kansas Williams Fund.

Butch’s passions in life were his family, sports, snow skiing, and the Atchison Community. He was proud to be an alumnus of Atchison High School and The University of Kansas. He played all sports in high school, and continued to follow and support the Redmen and the Jayhawks as a fan and booster for his entire adult life. He loved to go snow skiing and his annual treks to Colorado with his best friend of 47 years, J. David Farris, were always an adventure. Butch loved Atchison, Kansas. He took great pride in his hometown and always saw it for its very best. Butch was very proud of his sons and grandchildren and loved to spend time with them, and attend their sporting events. His favorite sport was basketball and he particularly enjoyed watching his son Brad coach and grandson Tanner play.

Butch and Mary Nass were united in marriage on June 10, 1967 in Atchison. After briefly living in El Paso, Texas while Butch was still in the military, Butch and Mary returned to Atchison in 1968.

Butch was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Judy Taylor. Survivors include his wife, Mary, of 50 years; two sons, Brad (Anne) Ball of Tomball, TX and Chad (Carri) Ball of Wichita, KS; five grandchildren, Tanner, Avery, Lindsey, Maxwell and Addison; sister, Kathy Hines of Atchison, Numerous nieces and nephews and many, many, many friends.

Melvin Dwayne Sinclair, 60, of Circleville, KS passed away suddenly Thursday, April 27, 2017 at Hiawatha Hospital E.R. He was born December 4, 1956 in Winchester, KS the son of David H. and Thelma Louise (Donovan) Sinclair.

Melvin graduated from ACCHS in 1975 and had attended Vo-Tech in Atchison. Melvin and his wife, Debra, owned and operated M&D Tree Shearing. He had worked for Collins Pipe in Holton for about 10 years, worked at Effingham CO-OP repairing farm tires and had also owned and operated The Cellar in Holton in the early 1990’s. Melvin had a passion for farming; he also owned many cattle and goats.

Melvin married Debra L. Hill on October 14, 2000 in Soldier, KS. She survives of the home. Other survivors include 3 step-children, Shawnna Long of Kansas, Krystal “Krys” Bevan (Mike) of Star Valley, WY and Rickey Long (Kimberly) of Humbolt, NE; a brother, Michael R. Sinclair (Charlotte) of Oskaloosa, KS; 8 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson.

Funeral Services will be 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 2, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Monday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Circleville Saddle Club or Jackson Heights FFA c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Emmett Joseph Kramer, 71 of Pawnee City, Nebraska formerly of Seneca, Kansas, died April 26,2017 at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca.

He was born February 26,1946 to Lawrence and Rose Kramer in Baileyville, Kansas. He spent his childhood growing up in the Seneca and Baileyville area. He attended school at Baileyville Kansas. After school Emmett did various truck driving and harvest jobs. He loved talking to people, driving around the country side and spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. 

On February 12, 1972, he married Sandra Rose. Out of that marriage came 3 children Sherri, Jamie, and Chris. At a later date, they divorced.

Emmett is survived by his mother Rose Kramer, fiancé Verniece Scott, his 3 children Sherri and (husband) Frank DeLeon of Garden City, Kansas, Jamie Kramer of Pawnee City, Nebraska, and Chris and (wife) Tonya Kramer of Johnson, Nebraska, 5 Grandchildren Alisha, Alissa, Tristen, Dalton, Daykon, 3 sisters Jeanette , Mary Ann and Elsie, 3 brothers Ken, Marvin, Cletus, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Emmett is proceeded in death by his father Lawrence August Kramer, a brother Richard Kramer and a sister Rita Kramer.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM Sunday, April 30, 2017 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca, Kansas. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM Monday, May 1st at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Baileyville, Kansas.  Burial in the church cemetery.

Lauer Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

Today we lost a son of the greatest generation.  Lewis C. Carter, 93, of Holton, KS passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at Holton Community Hospital.  He was born May 10, 1923 in Millen, GA, the son of John Lewis and Mary Alicia (Butler) Carter.

     After graduating from Roosevelt High School, Kansas City, Mo. in 1941, he proudly served in the United States Navy during WWII -- Pacific Area -- fighting in three major battles, Iwo Jima, Okinawa and South China Sea.  Lewis earned the Victory Medal, 3 stars Asiatic Pacific and Good Conduct Medal.

    After the war, Lewis traveled the country working on farms and ranches, which led him to studies at Kansas State University. Lewis graduated with a BS in Agriculture and MS in Animal Husbandry and Genetics.  During his college years, Lewis worked for Kansas State University on their farm and ranch and later taught the university's adult education program, teaching farm management.  Throughout his career Lewis proudly displayed his livestock brand - Clothespin E.

    While teaching, Lewis attended Washburn University School of Law graduating with a Juris Doctor.  Lewis began private law practice in nominal partnership with E.V. Bruce in Holton for 13 years; he served as Municipal Judge for the City of Holton from July 1959 - 1960.  In August of 1961 he was appointed Chief Attorney for the State Property Valuation Dept; in 1969 he was appointed Special Assistant Attorney General and later Assistant Attorney General.  On January 1, 1971 Lewis was appointed by Chief Justice Price to serve as Clerk of the Kansas Supreme Court where he worked until his retirement on August 30, 1991.  In retirement, among Lewis' many activities he enjoyed playing harmonica with local country musicians and analyzing the stock market.

    He was member of several Bar related organizations, including the Bar Association of the State of Kansas, Jackson County Bar Association, National Conference of Appellate Court Clerks where he served as President (1981 - 1982), Appellate Rules Committee, Administrative Procedures Committee and Records Committee.

    Local memberships included the Holton V.F.W. Post #1367, American Legion Post #44, Holton Masonic Lodge #42 AF & AM, Scottish Rite Bodies and Arab Shrine where he belonged to the Royal Order of Jester Court #125.

    Lewis married Jeane Katherine Coggins on November 26, 1947 in Kansas City, Mo.; celebrating 69 years of marriage last year.  She survives of the home.

    Other survivors include two sons, John Carter (Stacey) of Tucson, AZ; Blaine Carter (Lynda) of Lake Wabaunsee, KS; daughter-in-law Catherine L. Carter of Albuquerque NM; three grandchildren, Ashley, Elyse and Eryn and one great-granddaughter, Renee.

    He was preceded in death by a son, Steven D. Carter; a sister, Kathleen Rickert and a toddler brother, John Lewis Carter, Jr.

You've lived a full and remarkable life Dad -- We love you and will miss you.

    A private family graveside service with Military Honors will be held at the Floral Hill Cemetery in Kansas City, Mo.  Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is in charge of arrangements.

    Memorials may be given to the Shriner's Hospital for Children or Holton V.F.W. Post 1367 c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, Kansas 66436.  To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Evelyn Wissmann, 91, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 24, 2017 at Falls City. She was born February 15, 1926 at Falls City to Albert and Anna (Gossoehmig) Niedfeldt, Sr.

On February 3, 1948 she married Meinert Wissmann at Falls City. He passed away February 26, 2000.

Evelyn was raised north of Falls City and graduated Falls City High School in 1945. She attended Peru State Teachers College over the summer and obtained her teaching certificate and she taught in the rural school system until getting married. When married the couple established their home southeast of Verdon and then moved to the family dairy east of Barada. She was a homemaker, worked on the dairy and always had a large garden. They moved into Falls City in 1995. She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (north of Falls City), Dorcas Circle, Concordia Guild, Lutherans For Life and was a 4-H Leader.

Evelyn is survived by her sons, Larry of Falls City, Leon and his wife Susan of Hiawatha, KS, Loren and his wife Gloria of Milford, NE, Lyle of Falls City, daughters, Lela Middendorf and her husband David of Hiawatha, LuAnn Galucia and her husband Marty of Wentzville, MO, brother, Harold Niedfeldt and his wife Joann of Falls City, sisters, Ilene Hall and her husband Lyle of Lincoln, Elaine Nispel of Kearney, NE, thirty-one grandchildren and twenty-seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter in infancy, husband, and brothers, Albert, Jr., Kenneth and Glenn.

Her funeral will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 10:30 AM at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (6 miles north of Falls City) with Reverend Daniel Gifford officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Friday from 7-8:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home

The family prefers memorials be made 

DENTON, KANSAS - Betty L.(Adkins) Myers, 92, of Denton, Kansas died Monday, April 24, 2017 at an assisted living home in Hiawatha, Kansas. 

Betty was born on March 5, 1925 in Table Rock, Nebraska to Samuel (Frank) and Maude (Randall) Adkins. She lived most of her life in the Leona and the Denton area. Betty was a homemaker. Betty loved gardening, planting flowers, horses, making quilts and embroidering tea towels. 

Betty is a member of the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bendena, Kansas and W.E.L.C.A. of the church, a Saddle Club and Bendena Homemakers Club. 

She married Bill Myers on December 23, 1969 in Bendena, Kansas. He preceded her in death on June 23, 1996. Betty was also preceded by her siblings, an infant, Sam Adkins, Erma Pohl, Melvin Adkins, Jack Adkins, Dickie Adkins and Alfred Adkins. 

Survivors include daughter, Sylvia Thompson (Leonard); 
Sons,  Gerald Myers, Wayne Myers and Lewis Myers (Pat); 
10 Grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; 
Siblings, Gertrude Hamilton, John Adkins(Eva),(Mildred) Adkins, Art Adkins (Rosalee), Delbert Adkins(Sharon), Cleo Stewart, Joyce Moppin(Kenny), Danny Adkins(Terry); 
Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Funeral: Thursday, April 27, 2017 – 10:30 A.M. 
At: St. John’s Lutheran Church – Bendena, Kansas. 
Burial: Denton Cemetery – Denton, Kansas 
Visitation - family will receive friends Wednesday evening 6-8 pm at the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas. 
Memorials: St. John’s Lutheran Church, Highland Ambulance or Northeast Kansas Hospice.

Jimmy Don Entrikin, 70, of Horton, Kansas, passed away suddenly on April 23, 2017 in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Jim was born on September 12, 1946 in Potter, Kansas the son of Wilbur and Pat Fowler Entrikin. Jim graduated from Everest High School in 1966, he then joined the United States Naval Service in May of the same year. After completing a four year tour of duty with another two years in the Naval Reserves, he then joined the Kansas Army National Guard stationed in Horton, Kansas. Jim retired from active duty from the 2nd Battalion 130th Field Artillery Unit in Hiawatha, KS with 20+ years total active duty service in 1999.

After “retiring” Jim held numerous part time jobs including USD #430 bus driver and custodian before completely retiring in June of 2016. He was a faithful and active member of the Horton First United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir, taught Sunday School and served in various capacities on several church committees.

Jim married Dorothea Wakefield on May 28, 1967 in Everest, KS. They have three children Jackie (and Mark) Milroy of Hiawatha, KS; Alan Entrikin of Reading, KS; and Dennis Entrikin of Hiawatha, KS. Jim is also survived by grandkids: Lisa (and James) Blanton, Nick Milroy, Nikki Entrikin, Darrin Walter, Samantha (and Chris) Gray, Drew (and Sara) Entrikin, Autumn Esher, William Entrikin, Tonya Esher, Ryker Entrikin, Becca Entrikin, Miclan, Emma, and Phoenix Entrikin; and 6 great grandkids: Blayz, Frankie, Jayden, Natalie, Anakin, and Warren. Surviving siblings: Byron (and Mary Jane) Frank of Elkhorn, NE; Leroy Entrikin of Hiawatha, KS; Roger (and Eileen) Entrikin of Junction City, KS; Robert Entrikin of Atchison, KS; Nedra Sellens of Lansing, KS; Dora (and Bruce) Miller of Everest, KS; and John Entrikin of Atchison, KS. There are also numerous nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents Wilbur and Pat Entrikin; sister-in-law Erika Entrikin; and nephew Martin Entrikin.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, April 28, 2017 at the United Methodist Church in Horton, Kansas. The family will greet friends on Thursday evening from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Ks. Burial with Military graveside rites will be at the Horton Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the United Methodist Church and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com
Attachments area

Ronald Ray Collins, 57, of Havensville, KS passed away Sunday, April 23, 2017 at his home. He was born November 11, 1959 in Onaga, KS the son of Lewis L. and Evelyn “Lorene” (Rieschick) Collins.

Ron graduated from Onaga High School in 1977. He had lived in the Onaga, Havensville and Holton communities. Ron had worked for Oldham’s Sausage in Holton for many years.

Survivors include 2 brothers, Donald Collins (Diana) of Elon, NC and Jerold Collins of Havensville, KS; 3 nephews; 3 great-nieces and nephews and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

 A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 28, 2017 at Bucks Grove United Methodist Church. Memorials may be given to the church c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is in charge of arrangements. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Gayleen Zentner, 84, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 24, 2017 at Falls City. She was born January 5, 1933 at Shubert to Kenneth and Hazel (Rase) Wilson.

On July 20, 1958 she married Lewis Zentner at Falls City.

Gayleen was raised in Shubert and Falls City, graduating Falls City High School in 1950. She then attended Peru State Teachers College and obtained a teaching certificate that summer and began teaching at Cupola Rural School north of Verdon. She graduated from Peru State Teachers College in 1957 with a teaching degree and taught school in Lincoln, NE for a year before marrying and moving to a farm northeast of Salem, NE. She taught school at Five Point School and Salem School for a year each before taking leave for the birth of their first daughter. When Brenda began kindergarten she started teaching first grade at North School in Falls City until retiring from teaching to help manage her and her husband’s Vermeer Business. She retired in 2003 and the couple moved into Falls City. She was a member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (20th & Towle), Sunday School Superintendent and teacher, as well as church wedding coordinator, Morning Circle of the church, helped with numerous quilting projects and a member of Fairview Club.

Gayleen is survived by her husband Lewis of Falls City, daughters, Brenda Vampola and her husband Kenneth of Arlington, NE, Valorie Zentner and her fiancé, Randy Cramer of Omaha, NE, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Jean Kechely and a brother in infancy, Elwin Dean Wilson.

Her funeral will be held on Friday, April 28, 2017 at 10:30 AM at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church with Reverend Andrew Chavanak officiating. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Thursday from 7-8:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Retired Falls City Journal Publisher and popular columnist Scott Schock passed away at his home Saturday, April 22, 2017 from apparent sudden cardiac arrest. He was 68. 

Mr. Schock was associated with the Journal for 38 years, beginning as a reporter and photographer in 1976 before being promoted to editor, then publisher. His column, “Off the Cuff,” regularly appeared on Page 2 for nearly four decades. Scott retired in 2014, but remained a part-owner of the company at the time of his death. 
  
  In the spring of 2007, Schock was named the winner of the Nebraska Press Association’s Harpst Leadership Nebraska Award, “created to recognize a newspaper or publisher that best illustrates efforts in promoting lead ership within their community,” as well as the Omaha World-Herald’s prestigious Francis L. Partsch Award for Editorial Leadership, which includes a $10,000 cash award. 

A avid golfer for most of his life, Scott was a member of the State Tournament-qualifying 1966 FC Tiger Golf Team that to this day is the lone FCHS squad ever to qualify as a team. Later, in the early 1990s, he was the Men’s Club Champion of the FC Country Club. 

Mr. Schock served as chairman of the Falls City Educational Foundation and led the effort to drum up public support and pass a bond issue that paid for the multi-million dollar renovation of FC High School around the turn of the 21st Century. He also played an active role in the FC Library & Arts Center project and at one time served as President of the FCCC Board of Directors. 

He loved Nebraska Football, was a prodigious reader, and was the biggest Rolling Stones fan in the 
world. 

William Scott Schock was born May 1, 1948 in Falls City to George William “Bill” and Dorothy 
Lucille (Lunsford) Schock. He was raised in Falls City, graduating from FCHS in 1966. He graduated 
from Northwest Missouri State College in 1970 and taught high school social studies and coached the high school golf team in Moberly, MO, for five years before moving back to Falls City to work at the paper. He married Peggy Pickard on Jan. 3, 1966 in Hiawatha, KS. They had two children, Amy Beth, on July 19, 1966, and William Jason, on Aug. 4, 1972. They were later divorced. 

Scott is survived by his children, Amy (Dave) Meinzer, of Omaha, and Jason (Alicia) Schock, of Falls City; his grandchildren, Emma, Chloe and Evi Schock, all of Falls City; his father, Bill, of Falls City; sister, Laurie Obbink, of New York City; and niece, Elisabeth Obbink, also of NYC. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy, in 2007. 

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, April 28, 2017 at Dorr & Clark Funeral Home. Inurnment will follow at Steele Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. 

Maxine Bowman Staley, 91, died Saturday evening, April 22, 2017, at Hiawatha Community Hospital, surrounded by her family.  She had made her home next door to her daughter and son in law Linda and Steve Korthanke of rural Robinson, for the past 16 years.

Maxine was born December 5, 1925, at Buffalo, KS, one of five children born to Arnold and Hazel Gilliland Moreland.  She had spent most of her life in the Osawatomie, KS area where she worked as an activity therapist for the Osawatomie State Hospital for most of her working life.

She attended the Methodist Church at Osawatomie.  She was a ham radio operator (an activity that was male dominant); and a member of the Red Hat Society of the Hiawatha area.  While still in school herself, she was asked to be the basketball coach and teacher at Parker, KS.  She loved music of all types with her favorite being blue grass.  Maxine was an artist—she enjoyed painting of all types: oil, water color, acrylic, etc.  To say that she enjoyed collecting elephants was an understatement!

Survivors include her children:  Linda Korthanke (Steve) of rural Robinson, Barbara Nash of Centerville, KS, Dianna Swinehart (Mike) of Paola, KS, LaDonna Cornett (Glenn) of Parker, KS,  Roger Bowman (Linda) of LaCygne, KS; 16 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren.  Maxine also had a very special friend she called a daughter:  Walta Fry.

Maxine was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband for nearly 25 years Frankie Bowman; her second husband they were married for nearly 10 years Earl Staley; three grandchildren:  Tennille McCracken, Scott Nash, and Stacie Koelsch.  She was last survivor of her family:  three brothers:  Jake, Keith and Junior; and a sister Ruth.

Graveside services are planned for 2 p.m. Thursday, April 27, at Goodrich Cemetery, near Parker, Kansas.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Maxine Staley Memorial Fund, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

A special message or remembrance may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Maxine Bowman Staley, 91, died Saturday evening, April 22, 2017, at Hiawatha Community Hospital, surrounded by her family.  She had made her home next door to her daughter and son in law Linda and Steve Korthanke of rural Robinson, for the past 16 years.

Maxine was born December 5, 1925, at Buffalo, KS, one of five children born to Arnold and Hazel Gilliland Moreland.  She had spent most of her life in the Osawatomie, KS area where she worked as an activity therapist for the Osawatomie State Hospital for most of her working life.

She attended the Methodist Church at Osawatomie.  She was a ham radio operator (an activity that was male dominant); and a member of the Red Hat Society of the Hiawatha area.  While still in school herself, she was asked to be the basketball coach and teacher at Parker, KS.  She loved music of all types with her favorite being blue grass.  Maxine was an artist—she enjoyed painting of all types: oil, water color, acrylic, etc.  To say that she enjoyed collecting elephants was an understatement!

Survivors include her children:  Linda Korthanke (Steve) of rural Robinson, Barbara Nash of Centerville, KS, Dianna Swinehart (Mike) of Paola, KS, LaDonna Cornett (Glenn) of Parker, KS,  Roger Bowman (Linda) of LaCygne, KS; 16 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren.  Maxine also had a very special friend she called a daughter:  Walta Fry.

Maxine was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband for nearly 25 years Frankie Bowman; her second husband they were married for nearly 10 years Earl Staley; three grandchildren:  Tennille McCracken, Scott Nash, and Stacie Koelsch.  She was last survivor of her family:  three brothers:  Jake, Keith and Junior; and a sister Ruth.

Graveside services are planned for 2 p.m. Thursday, April 27, at Goodrich Cemetery, near Parker, Kansas.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Maxine Staley Memorial Fund, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

A special message or remembrance may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Marilyn Waller, 67 of St. Joseph, MO was welcomed into the arms of Jesus, Friday, April 21, 2017 at her home.

She was born on January 29, 1950 to Clifford J. and Mary Ellen (Harrach) Coufal in Highland, Kansas.  Marilyn grew up in the Bendena, KS area and graduated valedictorian from Midway High School in 1968.  Marilyn attended Methodist School of Nursing and received her LPN from Hillyard Techincal School.

On October 31, 1970 she was united in marriage to Wilbur Waller and to this union a daughter, Tonya, was born.  For the last 30 years, they have resided in St. Joseph, MO where they made their home.

Marilyn was a member of the Green Valley Baptist Church in St. Joseph.  She enjoyed crafting, reading and baking. 

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Marilyn is survived by her husband, Wilbur, of the home; daughter, Tonya M. Waller-Roach and husband Terrence; brother, Neil Coufal; sisters-in-law Barbara Delaney and husband Jerry and Carole Parson; several nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Service:  1:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 25th with visitation from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service at Green Valley Baptist Church, St. Joseph.

Burial: Ashland Cemetery, St. Joseph, MO.

Arrangements, Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Gower, MO

Donations may be made to the Green Valley Baptist Church Deacon’s Benevolence Fund.

Bertille Lucy “Bert” Zeltner, 96 of Everest, Kansas passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2017 at the Maple Heights Senior Living Center in Hiawatha, Kansas.

Mass of Christian burial will be Monday, April 24, 2017 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Mary’s Church at Purcell, Kansas with Rev. Benjamin Tremmel, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Church Cemetery. A parish rosary will be recited on Sunday, April 23rd at 6:30 P.M. in the Chapel of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 8:00 P.M. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Bertille L. Zeltner Memorial Fund to be determined at a later date and may be left in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Bertille was born on September 26, 1920 in rural Effingham, Kansas the daughter of the late Edward A. and Anna (Schmitz) Wohletz. Bertille graduated from St. Ann’s Parochial School and Atchison County Community High School in Effingham, Kansas in 1939. After graduation she went to work for J. C. Penney Company and also worked at a drug store.

She and Bernard Zeltner were united in marriage on February 19, 1941 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Effingham, Kansas. Mr. Zeltner preceded her in death on August 13, 1989.

Bertille was a homemaker, a loving mother, a partner in farming with her husband and worked as a bookkeeper for the Huron Elevator for twenty-five years.

She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Purcell, Kansas and was a member of St. Mary’s Altar Society. She loved her flowers, working in the yard, gardening, canning her produce from the garden, quilt making and sewing.

She experienced all the changes in life from the old wringer washing machines to making her own laundry soap, rationing of food during the depression to the joy of raising four children while married to a wonderful husband.

Suriviors include her daughters, Hazel (Frank) Wiederholt, Princeton, KS, Connie (Ronald) Torkelson, Everest, KS, two sons, Thomas Zeltner, Overbrook, KS, Richard (Mary) Zeltner, Huron, KS, two sisters-in-law, Mary Hopkins, Everest, KS, and Eileen Wohletz, Effingham, KS, nine grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren and six great-great grandchildren.

Bertille was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard of forty-nine years; a grandson, Raymond Bernard Zeltner, two brothers, Hardy and Walter Wohletz and an infant brother and sister.

Ethel Agnes (Wilhelm) Baumgartner, 88, of Sabetha, Kansas passed away Friday, April 21, 2017 at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Ethel was born on February 6, 1929 to Frank and Amelia (Heinen) Wilhelm near the Seneca and Kelly area. She attended and graduated from St. Bede’s High School in Kelly, Kansas. Ethel was united in marriage to Denzel Baumgartner on August 9, 1952 at the St. Bede’s Church in Kelly, Kansas. Born to this union were 11 children.

Ethel was a housewife and helped on their farm in Woodlawn, Kansas. She was also a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Sacred Heart Catholic Church Altar Society. Ethel loved working in her garden and doing quilting.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Denzel on February 12, 2014; a son-in-law, Bob Herzog; three brothers, Francis, Irvin and Vollie Wilhelm; four step-sisters, Dorothy Gray, Isabel Hamersky, Phyllis Phillips and Armelia McPhail; four step-brothers, Aloysius, Richard, Maurice and Francis Hamersky.

Ethel is survived by her six sons, Dwaine (Teresa) Baumgartner, Robert (Patty) Baumgartner, Russell Baumgartner, Dennis (Lisa) Baumgartner all of Sabetha, Kansas, Stacey Baumgartner of Springtown, Texas, and Paul (Sherry) Baumgartner of Falls City, Nebraska; five daughters, Elaine (Harry) Worden of Topeka, Kansas, Darlene (Duane) Briggeman of Surprise, Arizona, Jane Herzog of Huntsville, Texas, Mary Addington of Topeka, Kansas, and Shirley (Shane) Magness of Houston, Texas; a sister, Geraldine Schmelzle of Effingham, Kansas; two brothers, Marvin Wilhelm of Shawnee, Kansas, and Joe Wilhelm of Green Valley, Arizona; a step-brother, Vic; a step-sister, Christina; and 21 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, several step-grandchildren, and step-great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, April 25, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sabetha. A rosary will be recited Monday, April 24, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha with visitation to follow from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Interment will be made at the Woodlawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, sent in care of the funeral home, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Louis F. Bidding, 88, of Atchison, KS, passed away Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at Mosaic Life Care, St. Joseph, MO.

Funeral service will be 2:00 PM, Monday, April 24, 2017 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Atchison, KS, with Rev. Robert Ziegler officiating.  Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens, Atchison, KS.  Family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 PM,Sunday, April 23, 2017 at Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS.  Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran School Endowment and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Condolences to the family may be left atwww.beckerdyer.com.

Louis was born on September 29, 1928 in Atchison, KS the son of Ralph and Katherine (Miller) Bidding.  He attended Deer Creek Grade School, later completing GED. Louis served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.   He was a maintenance worker for Ford Motor Co. in Claycomo, MO for thirty years, retiring in 1985.  Louis was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, having served as the Sunday School Superintendent and in the church choir.  He was also a member of the American Legion and VFW # 249.  He enjoyed singing, reading, fishing, hunting and working on cars.

Louis married Geraldine Dykstra on December 27, 1954 in Atchison, KS; she preceded him in death on August 19, 2012. Survivors include a daughter, Nancy Whiting, Atchison, KS and two grandchildren, Kara Whiting and Eric Whiting.  He was also preceded in death by his parents, three brothers; Edward, Ralph and William Bidding, five sisters; Ruth Watson, Doris Marr, Mary Farley, Velma Surritt and Rose Kohl.

Jesse Miles Hamilton, 61, of Denton, Kansas passed away Monday, April 17, 2017 at his home.

Jesse was born on April 12, 1956 in Highland, Kansas to George & Gertrude (Adkins) Hamilton.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Troy, Kansas. Jesse worked for MGP Ingredients of Atchison, Kansas as a Material Handler.

Jesse married Sheryl Arnold on October 9, 1982 in Rockville, Maryland. She survives of the home.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Additional survivors: daughters, Jennifer Brown (Kyle)
Robyn Lamme (Trevor)
Wendy Hamilton
Son, Bryan Hamilton (Karen)
Grandchildren, Kaelyn Lamme, Elena Russell & Benjamin Lamme
Mother, Gertrude Hamilton
Siblings, Georgia Jones (Richard), Robert Hamilton (Huicha), Mary Waggoner (Robert), Susan Drake (Roger), Clinton Hamilton (JoNell), Pamela Hamilton, Francie Hamilton & Carla Watkins (Morris)
Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces & nephews

Memorial Service: 10:30 A.M. Saturday, April 22, 2017
At the First Baptist Church in Troy, Kansas
Visitation: 6-8 Friday evening at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas. Friends may call after 9 A.M. Friday.
Jesse’s wishes are to be cremated with inurnment at a later date.
Memorials: First Baptist Church, Troy, Kansas or Midland Ministries, St. Joseph, Missouri

James H.  Macke, 66, of Seneca, Kansas, died unexpectedly Monday, April 17, 2017, at his home in Seneca.

He was born on August 21, 1950, in Seneca, the only son of Henry and Mary Nordhus Macke. He grew up on the Macke farm and attended B & B school; graduating from High School in 1969. He was a farmer and a stockman, farming with his Father until his own health forced him to retired. Jim moved into Seneca in 2009.

Jim enjoyed traveling and skiing in his younger days. Jim liked his daily walks in Seneca.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Church in Baileyville; and a former Knights of Columbus member of the Axtell Council #1163.

He is survived by his Mother, Mary; five sisters, Donna Macke of Leavenworth, Jane Macke of Overland Park, his twin, Joyce Macke of Aurora, CO, Mary Beth (Kenneth) Feldkamp of Centralia and Vicki (Greg) Hulsing of Seneca.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry on November 25, 2003.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 AM Saturday, April 22, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Baileyville. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery at Baileyville. A rosary will be prayed at 7 PM Friday at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Memorials may be given for Sacred Heart Cemetery, and sent in care of the family.

Thelma (Vance) Sawyer, 91, of Pawnee City, Nebraska was born on February 1, 1926, in Bassett, Nebraska to Harold and Blanche (Olson) Vance.  Her family moved to Pawnee City in 1938 when her father took over the position of Ag teacher at Pawnee City High School.  Thelma graduated from Pawnee City High School with the class of 1943.  She went one year to Nebraska Wesleyan University and then on to a lab technician school in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

After World War II, Thelma was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, J. Tom Sawyer on December 31, 1946 in Pawnee City.  The couple began their marriage by moving to New York City, New York where Tom attended New York University of Retail.  During this time, Thelma worked in a medical lab at a doctor’s office. Returning to Pawnee City, Tom took over the Sawyer-Barclay Clothing Company eventually owning and calling the store, Sawyer’s Clothing.  To this union three children Jay, Bob, and Ann were born.  Thelma was very involved with the lives of her three children and seven grandchildren.  She loved hunting quail, fishing, playing golf, and Nebraska football.

Thelma passed away on Sunday, April 16, 2017, at her home in Pawnee City, Nebraska having reached the age of ninety-one years, two months, and fifteen days.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband J. Tom Sawyer, and brothers Bill and Alvin Vance.

Thelma is survived by children: Jay Sawyer of Holdrege, NE; Bob Sawyer of Las Vegas, NV; Ann Butler of Neal, KS; a sister Doris Dahlke of Ord, NE; one grandson and six granddaughters; five great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, April 21, 2017, at the United Methodist Church in Pawnee City, Nebraska with Reverend Sherry Sklenar officiating.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday, April 20, 2017, at the Wherry Mortuary, 919 “G” St., Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary.

Interment will be at the Pawnee City Cemetery.   

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Pawnee City SENCA or the Pawnee County Memorial Hospital.

Online messages of condolence can be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Services are entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-919 “G” ST. Pawnee City, NE (402) 852-2387

Pacey Marie Maxfield passed away peacefully in the loving arms of her mother and father on the evening of April 18, 2017. She came early to her loving family and left us too soon. Pacey was born on her mother’s birthday April 17, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. at Stormont Hospital in Topeka, Kansas.

She is survived by her parents Samantha Stephenson and Wesley Maxfield of Horton, KS; Grandparents Lori “Charlie” Wiltz (Jeff Morton) of Kansas City, KS, Rodney Stephenson (Kim) of St. Joseph, MO, Lesa Blunt of Horton, KS; Aunts and Uncles: Matthew Stephenson (Taylor) of St. Joseph, Christopher Jones of Hiawatha, Hunter Huss and Payton Huss, both of St. Joseph, Nichole (Juan) Gonzales of Hiawatha; Great-grandparents: Virgil and Lois Wiltz, Verle and Jeanne Stephenson, of Hiawatha, and Virginia Blunt of Effingham, KS; numerous great aunts and uncles: Brenda (Tim) Schuetz, Debbie (Randy) Phillips of Hiawatha, Tony (Carol) Stephenson of St. Joseph, Angela (Fred) Dimmel of Blue Springs, MO, Diana (Vic) Bear of Wathena, Jennifer (Paul) Crandell of Gilbert, AZ, Sandy (Larry) Becker of Everest, and Angie (Tom) Grandpre of Everest.

Services planned for 11 a.m. Friday, April 21, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha, with Shane Spangler officiating. Interment will follow at Babyland at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services.

Memorial contributions suggested to Stormont-Vail Neonatal Intensive Care sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Esther Ellen Clark, 98, formerly of Talmage, Nebraska was born on January 27, 1919 in Hardin, Montana to Boyd and Eunice Violet (Young) Whisnant.  She attended grade school in Clarkston, Montana and later attended Clarkston High School where she graduated in 1936.

 Esther met her future husband Charles Clark while he was working in the shipyards in Washington and they were united in marriage on February 1, 1941 in Kelso, Washington. To this union three sons, Donald, Roger, and Doug were born.  After the war, the couple returned to Talmage in 1946 and lived in Talmage for a short period of time before moving to the farm southwest of Talmage where they raised their family.  Esther was a homemaker most of her married life.  She and Charles ran a dairy and small grain farm until retiring in 1978.  They continued to live on the farm until Charles death in 2015.  Esther moved to Nebraska City and has been a resident of the Ambassador.  Esther and Charles were members of Faith Lutheran Church in Talmage.

Esther passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2017, at the Ambassador Nursing Facility in Nebraska City, Nebraska having reached the age of 98 years, 2 months, and 22 days. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Charles “Ralph” Clark, three sisters Grace, Mary and Ruth and two brothers Wayne and Warren Whisnant.

Esther is survived by her three sons: Donald Clark of Talmage, NE; Roger Clark of Franklin WI; Douglas Clark of Talmage, NE; eight grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 24, 2017, at The Faith Lutheran Church in Talmage Nebraska with Pastor Mary Grundman officiating.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church.

Interment will be at the Grant Evergreen Cemetery in rural Talmage, Nebraska.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Talmage Rescue Squad.

Online messages of condolence can be left at www.hallfuneral.net

Services are entrusted to Hall Funeral Chapel-707 15th ST.-Auburn, NE (402) 274-3131

Trenton Carl Stutheit, age 29 of Omaha, passed away Sunday, April 16, 2017, at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha.

Survivors include his daughter Annella of Omaha; Annella’s mother Amanda Schulte of Omaha; mother and step-father Linda and Patrick Portrey of Shubert; father and step-mother Mervin and Patty Stutheit of Dawson; grandmothers Judie Douglas of Peru; Daisy Anderson of Humboldt; brothers and sisters Tyler (Jenny) Stutheit of Humboldt; Danielle (Michael) Wilkinson of Lincoln; Jessica (Michael) Murphy of Peru; Michael Portrey (fiancée Tricia Angell) of Aguilar, CO; Jim Nincehelser of Dawson; Jamie Vaughan of Auburn; Joshua Nincehelser (significant other Courtney DeBuhr) of Dawson; Jacob (Melanie) Nincehelser of Columbus; many aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, and many friends.

A funeral service will be Saturday, April 22, 2:00 p.m. at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn.  Trent’s body will be cremated following the service, and burial of ashes will be at a later date at Mt. Vernon Cemetery at Peru.  Visitation will be at the funeral home Friday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 6:00 to 8:00.

Memorials are suggested to the Annella Pearl Stutheit Trust Fund.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.
 

Lynn Elmer Heiman, 65, of Seneca, Kansas, died unexpectedly on Easter Sunday, April 16, 2017 at his daughter’s home in Kansas City, Missouri.

Lynn was born on July 18, 1951 in Axtell, to Elmer F. and Aurelia Macke Heiman. He grew up in the Baileyville community; and attended B & B High School, graduating with the Class of 1970. He attended Emporia State College for a couple of years. Lynn returned to Baileyville to work for his Father at the Baileyville State Bank. He began his career at the bank in 1972, joined the Board of Directors in 1974, became VP in 1978 and served as Board Secretary from 1983-1987; the family sold the bank to Elk State Bank in June of 2016, he continued to work until he retired in September of 2016.

Lynn married Connie E. Morrison on September 24, 1983 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. The couple celebrated 33 years of marriage; and enjoyed numerous trips during their lifetime together.

He was a member of Sts Peter & Paul Catholic Church, St. Joseph’s Society, the Knights of Columbus Council 1769, where he was the past Grand Knight, the Ponce De Leon Assembly 283 of the 4th Degree Knights of Columbus of Seneca, the Community Bankers Association, the Kansas Bankers Association, the Seneca Lions Club and was a past Treasure of the Seneca Chamber of Commerce.

Lynn enjoyed a good game of cards, bingo, traveling, playing golf, hunting, and watching football and basketball. 

He is survived by his wife, Connie; his three children, Sara Heiman of Manhattan, Kansas, Jennifer Heiman of Kansas City and Jeff Heiman of Seneca, Missouri; his mother Aurelia Heiman of Seneca, and his sisters, Marilyn (Paul) Boeding of Seneca and Judi (Rob) Stork of Topeka, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer on February 13, 2008; his father-in-law, Wilbur Morrison on September 17, 1999; and his mother-in-law, Lily Jane Morrison on May 17, 2008.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM Thursday, April 20, 2017 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM Friday, April 21st at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. 

Memorials can be given in Lynn’s memory to Seneca Fire Dept. and or Baileyville City Cemetery, and sent in care of the family.

To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

Margaret E. Heuertz, 77, Valley Falls, died Monday, April 17, 2017, at a Topeka hospital as a result of injuries from a single vehicle accident near Topeka.

She was born Feb. 12, 1940, at Valley Falls, the daughter of Elmer A. and Esther Gile Hosler. She graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1957.

Margaret was a homemaker. She had done residential cleaning and had worked as a custodian at USD 338 in Valley Falls. She had worked at Slimaker Dress Factory in Holton. She was a member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church at Meriden and a member of the church choir. She enjoyed quilting and was a member of Jillann’s Fabric Junkies in Grantville and Kaw Valley Quilters Guild in Lawrence.

She married John J. Heuertz, June 4, 1966, at Valley Falls. She was preceded in death by a son, James Joseph Heuertz, July 8, 1977, and a brother, John Hosler, Aug. 16, 1997.

Survivors include her husband, John, of the home; two daughters, Susan Fritch, and Ann Harden, both of Meriden; son, Thomas (Sara) Heuertz, Bartlesville, OK; brother, Francis Hosler, Valley Falls; ten grandchildren, Kimberley, Jessica, Jacob, Danelle, Sara, Travis, T.C., Joshua, Jolee and Levi; and two great-grandchildren, Railynn and Jackson.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 22, 2017, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church at Meriden. Cremation will follow the service and inurnment will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery at Valley Falls at a later date. The Rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m. Friday, at the church, followed by visitation.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association and sent c/o Mercer Funeral Home, PO Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. Online condolences are welcome at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Harvey Perl Sauvage, 87, of Havensville, KS passed away Monday, April 17, 2017 at Medicalodge Jackson County. He was born November 2, 1929 in Emmett, KS the son of Carl Charles and Nellie “Mae” (Day) Sauvage.

Harvey attended Holton and Havensville schools. He grew up helping his dad on the family farm and later was a farmer and stockman on his own farm south of Havensville.

He married Myra Lee Channel on September 12, 1953 in Emmett, KS. She survives. Other survivors include a son, Douglas Sauvage (Lana) of Havensville, KS; a sister, Betty Myers of Havensville, KS; 2 brothers, Carl Eugene “Gene” Sauvage of Havensville, KS and Bill L. Sauvage of Linn, KS; 3 grandchildren, Jessica L. Stowers, Auston Sauvage and Dennis DeVader; 3 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a son, Marc H. Sauvage on May 24, 2009.

Private family inurnment will be in the Havensville Cemetery. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be given to the Havensville Christian Church c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Eugene F. “Gene” Miller, 87 years young, of Atchison, Kansas, died peacefully in his sleep on Easter Sunday at his home.

Mass of Christian burial will be Thursday, April 20, 2017 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph’s Church with Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A Parish and Knights of Columbus rosary will be recited on Wednesday, April 19, at 6:00 P.M. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 7:30 P.M. Memorial contributions are suggested to Mount St. Scholastica Monastery or St. Benedict Parish and may be left in care of the funeral home. Online condolences and messages to the family may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Eugene was born February 20, 1930 in Atchison, Kansas the son of Henry Albert and Irmina C. Schletzbaum Miller. He attended St. Benedict’s School and graduated from Maur Hill High School. He then attended classes at a vocational school in the electrical department and became a journeyman electrician.

He and Mary E. “Beth” Wagner were united in marriage on June 2, 1956, by Fr. Matthew Hall at St. Joseph’s Church.

Gene was employed with Mount St. Scholastica until 1972 when he began working for Schultz Electrical Company in St. Joseph, Missouri as a journeyman electrician retiring at the age of sixty-two in 1992.

He was a member of St. Benedict Parish where he participated at St. Joseph’s Church and was a member of Sacred Heart Council #723 of the Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of the IBEW Electrical Union of St. Joseph, Missouri.

In his spare time he enjoyed playing golf, gardening with Beth, bowling, fishing, wine making, mushroom hunting, traveling the country with his wife, spending time with family and friends, attending coffee club at CVS, and he enjoyed time outside “taking care of a bad habit” as he often told his children. He was also widely known as a handy man who was a “fixer” of all things.

Survivors include his wife of sixty-one years, Mary E. “Beth” Miller, Atchison, KS; two sons, Phillip (AnaMaria) Miller, Overland Park, KS; Henry J. “Hank” Miller, Merriam, KS; three daughters, Ruth A. (Lee) Eckert, Atchison, KS; Peggy (David) Howard, Leavenworth, KS; Sara Miller, Prairie Village, KS; two sisters, Sr. Irmina Miller, OSB, Atchison, KS; Alberta Prohaska, Atchison, KS; six grandchildren and a large extended family.

Gene was preceded in death by three brothers, Louis Miller, John Miller, Leo Miller and a sister, Mary Cecilia Patton.

The family wishes to personally thank Kevin & Marcy Handke, and Peggy Davis, for everything they did for Dad the last 10 years.

George “Jules” Langdon passed away on Saturday evening, April 15, 2017, at the Hiawatha Community Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Jules was born January 26, 1942, to Arthur and Margurete Dome Langdon, in Muscotah, KS, the youngest of 4 children. Jules graduated from Oskaloosa High School in l960 and married Janice Spence, his high school Sweetheart August 18, 1961.

He retired from the Gas Service Co, in 2002, after working 35 years for them. Jules, in his younger years was instrumental in bringing Meals on Wheels and Senior Citizens Taxi service to Brown County. Over the years he served as president of several organizations Including Jaycees, Kiwanis and Horton Industrial Development Board. He was also active in Boy Scouts while his son was a scout and was tapped into the Mic-O-says. He served on the Board of Trustees at the Horton UMC.

One of Jules’ favorite pastimes was woodworking and refinishing furniture. His family members all have furniture he built from wood harvested on his home place. He refinished several pieces for the Horton United Methodist Church.

Mr. Langdon is survived by his wife, of 55 years, Janice, son Ted Langdon (Janice) Sabetha, daughters Robin Hughes (Randy), Menifee, CA, and Amy Mueting (Ray) Axtell, Ks., and one sister, Lovie Smith (Clarence) of Topeka. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, and 6 great-grand-children. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, Bill and Jon Langdon, and 2 grandsons, Tobey and Tyson Langdon and grand-daughter Stacy Griffith.

Funeral services for Mr. Langdon will be held Thursday, April 20, 2017 at the Horton United Methodist Church at 10:00 a.m. with burial at Spring Grove Cemetery, Valley Falls, KS. Visitation will beWednesday, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Smile Train, a charity of special importance to Jules, or Mission Village Living Center and sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

David Clark, 69, of Troy, Kansas passed away Wednesday, April 12, 2017 at the Highland Healthcare. 

David was born on August 18, 1947 in Troy, Kansas to Robert L. & Mary A. (Sell) Clark. 

He was a member of the U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam as a medic. David owned & operated his own business as a land surveyor in Troy, Kansas. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #55, Troy, Kansas, VFW Post #5531, Wathena, Kansas, society of Land Surveyors of Kansas & Missouri. 

David married Kay Cornett on January 11, 1971 in Miami, Oklahoma. She survives of the home. 

He was preceded in death by his parents. 

Additional survivors: Son, Rick Clark (Amanda), Highland, Kansas;
 Daughter, Wendy Rahe (Bob), Hiawatha, Kansas; 
Grandchildren, Justin, Ellie, Cooper, Lilly & Zayla Clark; 
His dog, Lady; 
Brother, Bill Clark, St. Louis, Missouri; 
Sister, Mary Rose Sargent, St. Joseph, Missouri; 
Nieces & nephews. 

Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Tuesday, April 18, 2017 
At the Community of Christ Church in Fanning, Kansas 
Visitation: 6-8 Monday evening at the church. Friends may call after 9 A.M. Monday at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas. 
Burial: Mount Olive Cemetery, Troy, Kansas, where there will be military honors under the auspices of the Troy American Legion Post #55. 
Memorials: Troy Class of 1965 Scholarship Fund.

Rose Mary Garber, 88, of Sabetha died Sunday, April 16, 2017 at the Sabetha Manor.

Rose Mary was born February 17, 1929 at home in Oneida, Kansas to Edwin E. Bauman, Sr. and Mae (Milne) Bauman. She was the third of four children. She was united in marriage to Allen G. Garber on July 19, 1946 in Washington, Kansas. Rose Mary and Allen lived and farmed south of Berwick, Kansas. She was a member of the NorthRidge Church in Sabetha.

Rose Mary spent her life caring for her family. She also worked various times at the Sabetha Community Hospital as a Nurse’s Aide, and Midway Café as a waitress. Rose Mary owned Sunny Fabric Store, and raised hogs and various other farmers’ wife jobs, such as raising a big garden, and canning the produce.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Allen G. Garber of 62 years; one brother; and two great grand-sons.

Rose Mary is survived by one daughter, Bonnie M. Dundee; two sons, Randall (Kay) Garber, and Douglas (Debra) Garber all of Sabetha; sisters, Beulah Noble of the Sabetha Manor, and Lavonne (Earl) Hartter; a sister-in-law, Virginia Bauman of the AC Home; thirteen grandchildren, twenty-seven great grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren.

Funeral service will be Thursday, April 20, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the NorthRidge Church in Sabetha. A visitation will be Wednesday, April 19, 2017 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. The interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association and the Boys Town of Nebraska, sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Sabetha, Kansas 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Eugene A. “Gene” Sawyer, 94, of Holton, KS passed away Sunday, April 16, 2017 at Vintage Park in Holton. He was born August 31, 1922 in Hamlin, KS the son of Don A. and Helen M. (Felmlee) Sawyer.

Gene graduated from Hamlin High School in 1940. A few years after graduation, Gene proudly served in the United States Army during World War II and Pacific Saipan; earning Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal and World War II Victory Medal.

Gene lived most of his life in the Horton and Holton communities. He worked for E.I. DuPont from 1951 - 1980 in South Carolina and Topeka. He also worked for Ag Statistics. After retirement, Gene enjoyed full time camping for several years.

Gene was a member of New Life Church of the Nazarene in Holton, a member of Holton V.F.W. Post #1367 and long-time member of Holton Masonic Lodge #42 AF&AM. He also volunteered at Holton Community Hospital.

He married Lucille E. McKim on January 31, 1942 in Morrill, KS; she preceded him in death on January 21, 2000. He later married Edna M. Bradberry in Holton, KS; she preceded him in death on December 24, 2011. He was also preceded in death by 2 brothers, Francis and Richard Sawyer.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Sharon Bowser (Allen) of Holton, KS and Terri Morris of Holton, KS; 2 sons, Jerry Sawyer (Deb) of Fort Collins, CO and Gary Sawyer (Janine) of Holton, KS; 1 step-son, Douglas Bradberry; 2 step-daughters, Glenda Williams (Allan) and Cindy Thornton (Larry); a sister, Rosalie Oelschlaeger of Tonganoxie, KS; 8 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandson.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 21, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial with Military Honors will follow in the Morrill Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.Thursday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Holton Vets Club or New Life Church of the Nazarene c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Richard A. Liberty, Sr., 85, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 16, 2017 at his residence. He was born May 3, 1931 at Springfield, IL to the late Ralph and Hazel (Miller) Liberty.

On November 23, 1949 he married Leora M. Rowell at Auburn, NE. She passed away May 15, 2007.

Richard was raised at Rulo and attended Rulo Public School. Following his schooling he worked with his father on bridges, wheat harvest and commercial fishing on the Missouri River. He moved to Kansas City in 1952 where he took employment at Owens Corning Fiberglass Factory. He retired in 985 and moved back to Falls City in 1986 where he has lived since. He was a member of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Asbestos Workers Union.

Ricard is survived by his sons, Timothy and his wife Sandy, Steven and his wife Deborah, Gerald and his wife Brenda all of Kansas City, MO, daughters, Theresa Gonzales and her husband Louie of Tonganoxie, KS, Terrie Lee Foster and her husband Matt and Becky Nowling and her husband Kevin both of Falls City, brothers, Sammy and his wife Mary Jo of Falls City, Arthur and his wife Sue of Lawson, MO, sister, Eva Smith and her husband Lee of Rulo, twenty grandchildren and twenty-one great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, a son, Richard, Jr. great-granddaughter, Gia Liberty and eleven siblings.

His funeral will be held on Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at 2:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Butch Liberty officiating. Interment will be in Rulo Cemetery.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Harry R. Bowman, age 65 of Auburn, passed away Saturday, April 15, 2017, at his home.

Survivors include his wife Dianne; son and daughter-in-law Chad and Kathy Bowman of Auburn; daughter Kara Vaughn of Auburn; grandchildren Rachel, Preston, and Ashlynn Vaughn; Jacob and Jessica Bowman; mother LaVerne Bowman of Falls City; sisters Ruth (John) Rogers of Omaha; Judy Jane Becker of Falls City; Margie (Douglas) Sailors of Falls City; brothers Ben (Cherie) Bowman of Topeka, KS; Melvin (Carolyn) Bowman of Lincoln; brother-in-law Dale (Charlotte) McCullough of AL; sister-in-law Doris (Frank) Lowrey of MO; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

A funeral service will be Tuesday, April 18, 10:30 a.m. at Hemmingsen Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Walnut Grove Cemetery at Brownville. Visitation will be at the funeral home Monday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 6:00 to 8:00.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.

Loretta A. (Miller) Severin, 81, of Falls City, NE, passed away Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at Lincoln, NE. She was born June 16, 1935 at Wathena, KS to Aloysius and Frances (Studer) Miller.

Loretta was raised in the Leavenworth, KS area. She graduated from Immaculata High School, Leavenworth, KS in 1952 and from The Sisters of Charity School of Nursing in September 1955. She married Ralph (Jerry) Severin on October 19, 1957, at St. Joseph of the Valley Catholic Church in Easton, KS. She was a Registered Nurse until retiring in 1982. She lived in various places due to her husband’s service in the Air Force. They moved from rural Lolo, MT to Falls City in 1999.  Loretta spent many hours cultivating her flower garden and she shared those flowers with everyone. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, DAV Auxiliary, and Catholic Daughters of America, all of Falls City, 

Loretta is survived by a son, Dr. Stephen Severin and his wife Ann of Falls City, brothers, Robert Miller and his wife Gloria of Kansas City, MO, Douglas Miller and his wife Vi of Lonsdale, MN, sister, Alicia Sifford of Leavenworth, KS, and a granddaughter, Kayla Severin of Falls City. She was preceded in death by her husband Ralph (Jerry) Severin in 2010, her parents Aloysius and Frances Miller, and sons Ronald Shane and Michael Shawn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 25, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Thomas Dunavan as the presiding priest. Inurnment will be in St. Benedict’s Catholic Cemetery at Bendena, KS.

A Catholic Daughters rosary will be recited on Monday, April 24, 2017 at 4:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. A Parish Rosary will be recited the same day at 6:30 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home in Falls City with family receiving friends following the parish rosary.  

Ivan Smith, 83, of Lenexa, KS, passed away on April 11, 2017.

Ivan was born April 10, 1934 in Horton, Kansas to Junius and Viola (Schuetz) Smith. He married Laura Louise (Lolly) Keele in 1955. Lolly passed away 2000. He married Barbara A. (Yeamans) (White) in 2002. He is a member of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa, KS.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, at the Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia Lenexa, KS . Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 19, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 13615 W. 92nd St. Lenexa, KS. Interment will be held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Leo's Cemetery in Horton, Kansas. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to, Holy Trinity Catholic Church or to St. Leo Catholic Church.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Lolly and his brother, Larry Smith, of Atchison, KS.

He is survived by his wife Barbara of the home, sons Stephen D. Smith and wife Elaine of St. Joseph, MO., Michael D. Smith and wife Jane of Overland Park, KS and Bradley L. Smith and wife Robin of Leavenworth, KS, seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, stepdaughters Marsha Johnson and Lisa Coke and husband Jon Stone, four step-grandchildren, five step great-grandchildren, an uncle, John Smith of Horton, KS, a brother and sister-in-law, Daryl and Nadine Smith of Whiting, KS, a sister-in-law Marjorie Smith of Atchison, KS, a sister-in-law, Bette Marcurella of Holden, MO and numerous nephews and nieces.

He attended Horton High School and graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1952. Following High School, he attended Emporia State University where he earned a BS in Education in 1956 and Kansas State University where he earned a Ph.D in Chemistry in 1960.

Following graduation he joined Phillips Petroleum in Bartlesville, OK as a Research Scientist. He joined Midwest Research Institute (MRI) in 1961 where he rose from the position of Associate Chemist to Senior Advisor for Science and Technology. He conducted and managed research in such diverse fields as: rocket propellants, fuel cells and batteries, industrial coating technology, agriculture science, environment and waste management and human health.

He was the author of eight books as well as numerous articles and technical publications. He served as Chairman of a National Academy of Science Committee, "Environmental Geochemistry and Health." The Committee consisted of a team of international scientists looking at relationships between the environment and human health. He served as editor of an International Journal "Science of the Total Environment" published in Amsterdam. He also served as President of the International Society of Environmental Geochemistry and Health and as Chairman of the Kansas City Section of the American Chemical Society.

He accepted an assignment with the Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI) (now the National Renewal Energy Laboratory) in 1979 to head a large international solar energy program (SOLERAS), jointly funded by the United States and Saudi Arabia. He later assumed management responsibility for all SERI International programs which afforded numerous opportunities to travel to Europe and the Middle East. In 1982 he returned to MRI Operations in Kansas City to organize, structure and manage MRI Ventures, a for-profit subsidiary of MRI established to commercialize MRI developed intellectual properties. In 1985 he left MRI to serve as President and CEO of a new commercial venture, ENZYTEC. He left ENZYTEC in 1988 to establish Kansas City Tech Associates which conducted research for industry and government. He merged KC Tech Associates into a new company, Tech Industry Consultants in 1990 which also served as a contract subsidiary of the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation which was established to assist start-up technology companies in Kansas.

In 1995 he was a founding Board member, helped structure, was then selected to manage the new Johnson County Business Incubator, now known as the Johnson County Enterprise Center. He served as CEO of that organization until his retirement in 1999.

He was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Social Fraternity, and was elected to the following honorary societies: Phi Kappa Phi (Scholastic), Sigma Xi, (Science), Phi Lambda Upsilon (Chemistry), Lambda Delta Lambda (Physical Science), Phi Mu Alpha (Music), Kappa Mu Epsilon (Mathematics) and the Research Society of America. Other honors included: The MRI Council of Principal Science "Professional Award", Emporia State Universities recognition as a "Distinguished Alumni" and recognition in Whose-Who of American Men and Women in Science.

He coached little-league football, basketball and track while continuing to play softball until age 55 and basketball until age 65 when he took up walking and working out at a gym. His vocation was science but his avocations were family, music and sports while never losing his agricultural roots. He sang in Catholic Church Choirs his entire life beginning at age of about ten, and with various choral groups through- out his life, and added karaoke to his music interests in his later years.
 

Lois Ragan Prather, of Wahoo, Nebraska and a Brown County, Kansas native, died Tuesday morning, April 4, 2017, at Saunders Medical Center, in Wahoo, Nebraska.  She had lived the last 4 ½ years in Nebraska to be closer to family.

Lois was born, July 30, 1920, at Robinson, Kansas, the second of four children born to Walter Clarence and Daisy Mensen Ragan.  The family lived in the Zion neighborhood, northeast of Hiawatha, where she went to Heckler Grade School and graduated from Hiawatha High School with the class of 1938.  She went to all class reunions up until the last few years.  Family reunions were also treasured, and she attend all annual Koelliker reunions of her mothers family and desendants until she could no longer travel.  Lois moved to Kansas City, Missouri in the mid 1940’s where she worked as a sewing machine operator at Wilson Sporting Goods and later at G & L Bowling Supplies.

She met Ben Prather in Kansas City while working as a waitress, he being a frequent patron and they married April 29, 1951, at Hiawatha.  They made Kansas City their home and enjoyed square dancing, bowling, and camping with friends for many years.  He died in 1974. 

At that time she traveled extensively with friends and had many adventures with her good friend Dottie Freeman.  She made it to every state in the union and tried to visit every national Forrest, park and scenic attraction in the United States.  She traveled frequently by car doing a lot of the driving herself, but also by plane, cruise ship, ferries and trains.  She made several trips to the state of Alaska to visit her dear cousin Betty Hartley in Fairbanks.

She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, three brothers:  Orville Ragan, Newton Ragan, Wallace Ragan, nephew Ronald Ragan, and many friends.

Survivors include nephews:  Michael Ragan, Kevin Ragan; nieces Janet Misner, Cherrie Cejka, Candy Berridge; sister in law Glenda Ragan, 12 great nieces and nephews; many great-great-nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Lois’s life is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, April 22, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha, with interim pastor Kevin Rhea officiating.  Inurnment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

The family will meet with friends a half hour prior to services.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Lois Prather Memorial Fund, sent in care of the funeral home.

A special message or remembrance may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Terry Lynn Schafer, was born to Albert William and Florence Irene (Hunzeker) Schafer in Pawnee City, Nebraska on January 11, 1945.  Terry passed away in his home in Du Bois, Nebraska on April 12, 2017.  He was 72 years old.

As a child he attended the Pawnee County District 31 Union Grade School and the District 15 Hunzeker school west of the family farm where he grew up. He graduated from Pawnee City High School in 1963.  In high school, he was a member of the FFA, and as a senior was awarded the Nebraska State Farmer award.

Terry was married to Cathy Klepper on July 3, 1966 in Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Terry and Cathy made their home on the family farm outside of Du Bois, Nebraska.  They welcomed four children: Theresa Lynnette, Tammy Jo, John William and Leighton Ray.  They were blessed to have eight grandchildren; two girls and six boys.

Terry, Cathy and their children enjoyed working together on the family farm.  He had a herd of dairy cattle, and raised horses, pigs, chickens, sheep, and farmed a variety of field crops.  Terry was a hard worker, often working around the clock in the dairy barn and in the fields. He enjoyed combining the most; he said it was relaxing.  Terry loved the smell of newly turned dirt and freshly cut alfalfa. In fact, after moving to the city he would stop along the side of the road to pick up a handful of fresh cut alfalfa and throw it on the floorboard of the truck so he could enjoy the smell for the day.

In 1984, the family moved to Mesa, Arizona where Terry was self employed as a carpenter.  Terry was a Jack-of-All-Trades and could fix anything with the resources that he had.  He labeled himself The Redneck Engineering Company.

Growing tired of city life, and desiring to be close to family, Terry and Cathy moved back to Du Bois in 1994 where he continues working in construction and lovingly restored their 100-year-home where he lived out the rest of his life.

Family was the most important thing to Terry; he was a loving husband, father and grandfather.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Florence Schafer and brother Larry.

He is survived by his wife, Cathy and his four children and their spouses: Theresa and Troy Huffman of Aurora, CO; Tammy and David Weber of Superior, WI, John and Dena Schafer of Goodyear, Az, Leighton Schafer and Amelia Morcuende of Du Bois, NE; eight grandchildren: William and Matthew Stephens, Joe and Georgina Weber, Justin, Ashley, and Joshua Schafer, and Michael Schafer, many in-laws, nieces and nephews, and many other family and friends

Services 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 15, 2017 at Faith Baptist Church, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Officiating Chris Rohrbaugh.  Visitation, no viewing on Friday, April 14, 2016 from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Inurnment at the Pawnee City Cemetery, Pawnee City, Nebraska at a later date. Memorials to family choice. On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Thomas Bruce Lanter, 56, of Loveland, Colorado, passed away on Thursday, April 6, 2017 at the Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland, Colorado.

He was born on July 15, 1960 in Horton, Kansas. Tom worked as a plumber. He married Angela Wilson on August 25, 2010 in Aurora, Colorado.

Survivors include his wife, Angela Lanter of the home, Loveland, Colorado; parents, Richard and Donna Lanter of Horton, Kansas; two sons, Scott Lanter of Concordia, Kansas and Matthew Alexander of Leavenworth, Kansas; three daughters, Andrea Gallagher of Lake Summerset, Illinois, Sarah Mann of Galva, Kansas and Jenna Lanter of Wathena, Kansas; four brothers, Duane (Deanna) Lanter of Lancaster, Kansas, Rodney (Amy) Lanter of Basehor, Kansas, Eric Fennern of Condon, Oregon and Shane Fennern of Vancouver, Washington; four sisters, Donna Jean (John) Haines of Shawnee, Kansas, Diane Dempster of Malibu, California, Erin Fennern of Gresham, Oregon and Michelle Badgley of Portland, Oregon; three grandchildren, Maddux Gallagher, McCoy Gallagher and Lindsay Mann; sister-in-law, Diana Lanter of Everest, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Rick D. Lanter.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, April 15, 2017 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. Inurnment will be at the Horton City Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Everest Christian Church and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com
    

Connie Sue (Miller) Lehman, 67, of Sabetha passed away April 7, 2017 in her home surrounded by her loving family, ending a 20 month struggle with cancer. Connie was born April 16, 1949 in Fort Scott, Kansas, the oldest child of Wayne and Pearl (Massner) Miller.  She was raised on a dairy farm north of Fort Scott.  After completing the 8th grade at Bunker Hill Grade School, Connie attended Fort Scott High School, graduating with the class of 1967. Connie pursued a degree in elementary education, graduating from Pittsburgh State University in 1971.   After completing one year of teaching at Iola Grade School, she married the love of her life, John Lehman, on June 11, 1972 in Fort Scott, Kansas.The couple lived in Holton for 3 years before moving to Sabetha in 1975, where they raised their family of 5 children.   She had a love for interior decorating and for a number of years Connie was a business partner with her cousin, Karen Beyer, founding Draperie Décor in 1974.

Connie was a dedicated servant of Jesus Christ, becoming a faithful believer in His shed blood and was baptized in March, 1970 at the Fort Scott Apostolic Christian Church.  Since her marriage, Connie was a very active member of the Bern Apostolic Christian Church. Her family was a great joy and blessing to her.  She was a dedicated mother to her children, as well as being very supportive to the spiritual ministries that her husband was involved with.  Her home was always open to many guests who were recipients of her hospitality.  Connie was a board member of the Rural Gospel and Medical Missions of India, serving as secretary to that organization and making numerous trips to India with her husband.

She is survived by her husband, John, of the home.  Four daughters:  Natalie (Jason) Stratton, Quincy, Illinois; Kristen (Gabe) Hill, Scottsdale, Arizona; Lori (Myreon) Menold, Sabetha; Leann (Neil) Banwart, Zionsville, Indiana;  one son:  Timothy (Amber) Lehman, Taylor, Missouri.   Fifteen Grandchildren; her mother, Pearl Miller, Sabetha; two Brothers:  Dennis (April) Miller, Olathe; Kent (Jane) Miller, Tremont, Illinois;  Three sisters:  Evelyn (Neil) Hartter, Bern; Carol (Dean) Steffen, Marengo, Illinois; Cheryl (Dave) Byrne, Morton, Illinois, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bern Apostolic Christian Church. Visitation will be Monday, April 10, 2017 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Interment will be made at the Bern Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the Apostolic Christian Home of Sabetha or the Rural Gospel and Medical Missions of India, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534.

 Daniel Jackson “Jack” Thornton, 75, of Wathena, Kansas passed away on Thursday April 6th, 2017 at Mosaic Life Care of St. Joseph, MO after a courageous battle with cancer. Jack was born on February 10th, 1942 in Troy, Kansas to Cecil H. Thornton Sr. and Helen (Scott) Thornton. Jack married Donna Marie Euler on June 4th, 1960 in St. Joseph, Missouri. She survives of the home. He was a truck driver for Seitz Foods, an independent truck driver for Schneider National, and a member of the Teamsters Union. He retired in 1998.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Kimberly. He was greatly saddened by the death of his daughter Kimberly, but the birth of his great-grandchildren gave newfound joy and vitality to his life. Jack was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren cherished him and had bestowed him with the treasured nickname of “Poppa”.Additional survivors include: daughter Tamarah Pritchett (Marty) of Wathena, KS; six grandchildren Ashleigh Green (Matt) of Grain Valley, MO, Corey Bauman (Jordan) of Wathena, KS, Mardi Alysse Clark (Taylor) of Kansas City, KS, and Jacob, Cooper, and Austin. Four great-grandchildren include Presleigh Green, Teagan and Silas Bauman, and Charlotte Clark. Siblings include Marjorie Layman of Berryton, KS, Virginia Coffee of Merrill, OR, Betty Hunt (Henry) of St. Joseph, MO, Nancy Hartman of Excelsior Springs, MO, and Cecil H. Thornton Jr. (Helen) of Savannah, MO.

Thank you to Dr. AJ and his team at Mosaic Life Cancer Care, Dr. Kathryn Stueve and her staff, Dr. Francisco Aleman and his staff, the fantastic nurses, doctors, and staff in the ICU and Oncology Units at Mosaic Life Care, and many other healthcare professionals too numerous to list.Thank you to all friends and family who poured out their loving support to Jack and the family during this time. He was blessed to be surrounded by such great care and compassionate people.

The funeral service will take place Monday, April 10th, 2017 at 2:00pm at Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, KS. The family will receive friends for visitation on Sunday, April 9th from 2:00pm- 4:00pm at the funeral home. Jack will be buried at Mount Olive Cemetery in Troy, KS. Memorial donations can be made to either the Troy Ambulance Fund or Wathena EMS.

www.harmanrohde.com

Francis George “Sonny” Krier, 91, of Effingham, KS, passed away Saturday, April 08, 2017 at the Atchison Hospital, Atchison, KS.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM Wednesday, April 12, 2017 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Effingham, KS, with Fr. Benjamin Tremmel, OSB as Celebrant.  Burial will follow at St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery, Effingham, KS.  A Parish Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM with visitation following until 8:00 PM, Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at Becker Chapel, Effingham, KS.  Memorials are suggested to St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Atchison County Fire District #2 or The Town and Country Senior Center, Effingham, KS and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Sonny was born on May 30, 1925 in Rural Atchison County the son of Mathias and Wilhelmina (Watowa) Krier.  He had worked as a welder for Page Airways for forty-two years.  Sonny was a member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church and a past member of the Elks.  

He enjoyed gardening, camping, and fishing, wine making and going to Texas.

Sonny married Mary Ann Sauer on May 13, 1953 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atchison, KS, she survives of the home.  Additional survivors include a son Terrance and Christine Krier, McPherson, KS,  two daughters, Judy and Bruce Chalfant, Everest, KS, Jane Knudson and Allen Simmons, Denton, KS, a sister, Mildred Hoffman, Denton, KS, eleven grandchildren, seven step grandchildren, thirty-four great grandchildren, with one on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson Mathias Krier, a brother, Robert Krier, two sisters; Anna Mae Vollmer and Lucy Hibbs.   
    

Barbara Jean (Goebel) Keithley, 90, of Seneca, Kansas passed away Friday, April 7, 2017 at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital.

Barbara was born on August 15, 1926 to John and Kate (Vaught) Goebel. She attended Centralia High School. She was united in marriage to Elmer Keithley on October 5, 1941 in Marysville, Kansas.

Barbara and Elmer had a long, happy marriage of 63 years. She enjoyed their 6 children they raised together, and found joy in being with them all. She especially enjoyed rocking all her sweet grandbabies. She had many talents such as sewing, cooking, and baking but her greatest gift was her ability to make beautiful quilts. She also enjoyed reading, playing card games, and traveling with her beloved husband. Barbara was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Seneca, and a council woman for the City of Oneida.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer “Bud” Willis Keithley on January 11, 2004; a son, Ronald Eugene Keithley on September 25, 2013; a grandson, Brent Larkin on August 8, 1974; two grand-daughters, Melissa Feldkamp on July 9, 1980, and Lisa Baker on September 1, 2001; and eight brothers and sisters.

She is survived by four daughters, Linda (Ken) Haggard of Pontoon Beach, IL, Barbara S. Enneking of Seneca, KS, Jeanne (Jim) Cateron of Des Moines, IA, and Joni (Brian) Feldkamp of Baileyville, KS; a son, Elmer (Jean) Keithley, Jr. of Norfork, AK; a daughter-in-law, Floy Keithley of Liberty, MO; a special niece, Kate Sanders of Baileyville, KS; and 18 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Popkess Memorial Chapel in Seneca, Kansas. Visitation will be Monday, April 10, 2017 from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be made at the Seneca Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Church, sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle, Seneca, KS 66538. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Robert B. “Bob” Davis, 86, of rural Hiawatha, died Friday evening, April 7, 2017, at the Sabetha Manor.

Born October 15, 1930, at St. Joseph, MO, one of two children born to Albert and Ferne Syster Davis.  Bob wrote:  “After much deliberation, my parents brought me back to the farm home 2 ¼ miles east of Hiawatha where except for brief periods of time, I lived my entire life.   I suppose it could be said I didn’t get far in this world.”  Bob attended the LaGrange country school for 6 years prior to graduation from Hiawatha High School.

Robert belonged to the Mt. Zion Rustlers 4 H Club of Hiawatha.  While in 4 H, he constructed the first terrace on his parents’ farm and won the state soil conservation award.  He also accompanied the Brown County Soil Conservation Board as a winner of the Goodyear Soil Conservation award for outstanding work in Brown County.  The winners received a weeklong trip to Goodyear’s Litchfield Park in Phoenix, AZ.

Robert enlisted in the 2 BN, 130 FA, Kansas Army National Guard of Hiawatha, as a private, later received a commission and completed training as an army aviator in 1956, where he served for 12 years before being discharged.  He started flying when he was 20 and enjoyed this sport for over 53 years and received his commercial license in 1956.

Mr. Davis was a longtime member of Bethany United Church of Christ of Hiawatha where he served on the board, and as consistory president; BPOE #1741, Hiawatha Elks Lodge; the Hiawatha Lions Club; and had served on the Wolf River Watershed Board through the years.  Bob loved to help and do for others, especially those in need.

On July 3, 1955, he married Evelyn Crane from Powhattan.  To this union two children were born:  Greg and Kim.  The family farmed and operated a dairy on the same farm east of Hiawatha until he and Evelyn retired.  Evelyn survives of the home.

Other survivors include his children Gregory Davis (Diane), and Kimberly Neibling (Gary), all of Hiawatha; a sister Bette Lukert (John) of Sabetha; 6 grandchildren:  Ryan Davis, Jillian Hefner (Josh), Cody Neibling, Zach Perry, Allison Jackson (LaShawn), Rachel Henninger (Daniel); and 4 great-grandchildren:  Ty Jackson, Makayla Neibling, Neaka Henninger, and Draven Henninger.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a grandson Deivid Davis.

A Celebration of Bob’s life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 13, at Bethany United Church of Christ of Hiawatha, with Pastor Shane Spangler officiating.  Private inurnment will be at a later date at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.  Military honors a courtesy of Brown County Veterans Honor Guard.

The family will meet friends from 6 until 7:30 Wednesday evening, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Robert Davis Memorial Fund, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

A special message or remembrance may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com
   

Connie Sue (Miller) Lehman, 67, of Sabetha passed away April 7, 2017 in her home surrounded by her loving family, ending a 20 month struggle with cancer.

Connie was born April 16, 1949 in Fort Scott, Kansas, the oldest child of Wayne and Pearl (Massner) Miller.  She was raised on a dairy farm north of Fort Scott.  After completing the 8th grade at Bunker Hill Grade School, Connie attended Fort Scott High School, graduating with the class of 1967.

Connie pursued a degree in elementary education, graduating from Pittsburgh State University in 1971.   After completing one year of teaching at Iola Grade School, she married the love of her life, John Lehman, on June 11, 1972 in Fort Scott, Kansas.

The couple lived in Holton for 3 years before moving to Sabetha in 1975, where they raised their family of 5 children.   She had a love for interior decorating and for a number of years Connie was a business partner with her cousin, Karen Beyer, founding Draperie Décor in 1974.

Connie was a dedicated servant of Jesus Christ, becoming a faithful believer in His shed blood and was baptized in March, 1970 at the Fort Scott Apostolic Christian Church.  Since her marriage, Connie was a very active member of the Bern Apostolic Christian Church.

Her family was a great joy and blessing to her.  She was a dedicated mother to her children, as well as being very supportive to the spiritual ministries that her husband was involved with.  Her home was always open to many guests who were recipients of her hospitality.  Connie was a board member of the Rural Gospel and Medical Missions of India, serving as secretary to that organization and making numerous trips to India with her husband.

She is survived by her husband, John, of the home.  Four daughters:  Natalie (Jason) Stratton, Quincy, Illinois; Kristen (Gabe) Hill, Scottsdale, Arizona; Lori (Myreon) Menold, Sabetha; Leann (Neil) Banwart, Zionsville, Indiana;  one son:  Timothy (Amber) Lehman, Taylor, Missouri.   Fifteen Grandchildren; her mother, Pearl Miller, Sabetha; two Brothers:  Dennis (April) Miller, Olathe; Kent (Jane) Miller, Tremont, Illinois;  Three sisters:  Evelyn (Neil) Hartter, Bern; Carol (Dean) Steffen, Marengo, Illinois; Cheryl (Dave) Byrne, Morton, Illinois, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bern Apostolic Christian Church. Visitation will be Monday, April 10, 2017 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Interment will be made at the Bern Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Apostolic Christian Home of Sabetha or the Rural Gospel and Medical Missions of India, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Victoria Louise (Drake) Blevins, 71, long time resident of Highland, passed away peacefully Thursday morning, April 6, 2017, at Mosaic Life Care Center in St. Joseph, MO.

Vicki was born on August 19, 1945, in Hiawatha, Kansas to Charles and Mary (Idol) Drake. In her youth Vicki lived in Hiawatha, Kansas, Kansas City, and St. Joseph, Missouri. The family moved to Highland at the beginning of her 7th grade year where she made many life long friends.

Vicki married Jerry Blevins in 1963. Together, they had four daughters. She was a farm wife who served many meals to Jerry’s crew and was the bookkeeper for Blevins Farms and BT Limited. She served as activities director at the Highland Care Center and was owner/operator of Vicki’s Vintage and the Highland Guest House in recent years. She had a love for the arts. She crafted, painted, sketched, acted in community theatre, and encouraged her daughters in their love of music.

Granny loved and cherished her grandchildren. She had a fun playful personality that showed through her love of game playing and warm summer days at the pool. She always wore an apron when cooking and made many delicious baked treats.

Vicki dedicated her life to teaching others about the love of Christ. She has been an active member of the Highland Christian Church. She taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Youth Group, served as Hospitality Chairman, Sunday School Superintendent, and was active in CWF for many years.

Survivors include her children: Kelly Twombly (John Paul) of Highland, Kansas, Tracey Nicodemus (David) of Olathe, Kansas, Stephanie Peterson (Matthew) of Highland, Kansas, and son-in-law, Scott Twombly of Highland, Kansas; 11 grandchildren and 1 great grand child. Also surviving is a sister, Kathy Boatright (Mark) of Troy, Kansas and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Charles, and her daughter, Leigh Ann Twombly.

Vicki’s celebration of life service will be Tuesday, April 11, 2017, at 11:00 am at the Highland Christian Church. Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland after 10:00 am until 6:00 pm on Monday, April 10, 2017. The family will meet friends on Tuesday, April 11, 2017, starting at 9:30 am at the church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Vicki Blevins Memorial Fund which may be sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home at PO Box 33, Highland, Kansas, 66035.
www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Pamela Louise Keller passed away Thursday, April 6, 2017 at the Mosaic Life Care of St. Joseph, Missouri, with numerous family & friends by her side. 

Pam was born on May 23, 1954 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Calvin & Joyce (Judd) Ptomey. 

She worked as a Librarian’s Aide for 15 years at the Troy Schools. She loved attending & supporting her children & grandchildren’s activities. Pam’s love & devotion to her family was her greatest priority in life. 

Pam married Paul E. Keller on December 21, 1969 in Fanning, Kansas. He preceded her in death on January 4, 2008. She was also preceded in death by her father. 

Survivors: sons, David (Jo) Keller of Wathena, Kansas; 
Doug (Laurie) Keller of St. Joseph, Missouri; 
Dallas (Andrea) Keller of Highland, Kansas; 
6 grandchildren, Amani, Amelia, Kya, Isabella, Jhett & Tayla Keller; 
Mother, Joyce Ptomey of Troy, Kansas; 
Brother, David (Diana) Ptomey of St. Joseph, Missouri; 
Nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law & sisters-in-law; 
Her dog Princess. 

Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Monday, April 10, 2017 
At the First Christian Church in Troy, Kansas 
Visitation: 6-8 Sunday evening at the church, where friends may call after 11 A.M. Sunday at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas. 
Burial: Courter Cemetery, Troy, Kansas 
Memorials: Troy Ambulance Fund

Lynne McCullough, 78, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 6, 2017 at Falls City. She was born December 18, 1938 at Chicago, IL to Oscar and Lucille (Nieske) Holste.

On October 7, 1967 she married William “Bill” McCullough at Englewood, CO. He passed away January 2, 2002.

Lynne attended Chicago Public Schools and graduated from Palatine High School in 1956 at Palatine, IL. She attended Northern Illinois University and graduated in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. During her thirty year teaching career she taught in Illinois, Colorado and Nebraska. She retired from teaching in May of 2001 after teaching at North School for fourteen years. She was a member of First United Methodist Church of Falls City and was an officer of the Nebraska Retired Teachers Association.

Lynne is survived by her sons, Corey and his wife Brooke of Falls City, Mike and his wife Missy of Falls City and eight grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Her funeral will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at 10:30 AM at First United Methodist Church with Reverends John Hogue and Paul Weinert officiating. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Monday from 7-8:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

The family prefers memorials be made to Richardson County Cancer Fund or Richardson County Humane Society.

Ada Marie “Meeks-sah-quah” Levier, 89, of Mayetta, KS passed away Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at her home on the Potawatomi Reservation. She was born June 21, 1927 in Mayetta, KS, the daughter of Oscar and Mary (Mahkuk) Levier.

Ada attended Haskell Institute. She had worked various places in the housekeeping and linen department, including the State Hospital in Topeka. Ada was a homemaker, taking care of her 3 sons.

She was baptized at a young age as Catholic and later joined the Native American Church. Ada was also a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.

Survivors include her husband, Bernard J. Fogg, of the home; 2 sons, Gary Buskirk of Rossville, KS and Mike O’Dell of Montana and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ada was preceded in death by a son, Edgar Lee Levier on February 25, 2016; a sister, Phidelia Levier and a brother, Tucker Levier.

Native American Services will be Sunday evening, April 9, 2017 at Nozhackum Hall west of Mayetta. Burial will be Monday afternoon, April 10, 2017 in Mahkuk Cemetery. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is in charge of arrangements. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.
 

Kathryn Jeanette Smith, 100, Auburn, formerly of Valley Falls, died Wednesday, April 5, 2017, at a care facility at Auburn.

She was born May 16, 1916, at St. Paul, MN, the daughter of Daniel and Fanny Griser Johnson. She graduated from high school and business school at Frederick, WI. She had lived in Valley Falls from 1961-2015.

Jeanette was a homemaker. She and her husband, Walt Smith, had lived in California. When they moved to Kansas, they farmed in the Cummings, Nortonville, Effingham and Valley Falls communities. Jeanette had been an adult care provider and had worked at the Western Auto Store and Hatfield’s Variety Store, both in Valley Falls. She was a member of the Valley Falls United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, the Prairie Hall Club and Delaware Valley Quilters. She was a volunteer at the Clothes Closet in Valley Falls.

Jeanette enjoyed painting in different mediums, reading, discussing books and their authors, gardening and raising flowers. She often met with friends who shared the same interests.

She married Walter B. Smith, Oct. 11, 1940, at St. Paul, MN. He died June 15, 1993. She was also preceded in death by a son, Donald Smith, Feb. 22, 2016.

Survivors include her son, Ronald (Pamela) Smith, Auburn; her daughter, Marilyn Anne Curry, San Antonio, TX; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and family friend, Sherry Santee, Broken Arrow, OK.

The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 11, 2017, at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Burial will follow at the Valley Falls Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until service time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Jefferson County Friends of Hospice and sent c/o Mercer Funeral Home, PO Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. Online condolences are welcome at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Floyd Eugene Watkins, 87, of Soldier, KS passed away Thursday, April 6, 2017 at his home.

Floyd had been cared for by his great-nephew, Rick Watkins and Kristina Spillman. He was born December 16, 1929 in Soldier, KS the son of Lawrence Elvin and Marguerite Frances (Tomlinson) Watkins.

Floyd graduated from Soldier High School in 1947. After high school, Floyd served in the United States Army. He was a lifelong member of the Soldier community. Floyd was a farmer and stockman. In his earlier years, he was a member of 4-H and was honored to show his steer at the American Royal in Kansas City. He was a member of the Holton Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Survivors include 4 nephews, Richard Watkins of Soldier, KS, Ronald Watkins of Soldier, KS, Paul Watkins of Silver Lake, KS and Steven Watkins of Topeka, KS; 2 nieces, Sandra Hill of Oklahoma and Teresa Watkins of Pennsylvania and a sister-in-law, Marcia Watkins of Topeka, KS.

He was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Robert and Larry Watkins and a sister-in-law, Susie Watkins.

Funeral Services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, April 10, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Floyd will lie in state at the funeral home where family will greet friends from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Sunday afternoon at the funeral home. Private family inurnment will be at a later date in the Soldier Cemetery. 

Memorials may be given to Children’s Mercy Hospital c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.
 
 

Melvin Russell Benshoof, 86 years old, of Atchison, Kansas, died Friday, March 31, 2017 at the Medicalodge of Atchison.

Memorial Services will be Friday, April 7, 2017 at 6:00 P.M. at the United Methodist Church in Atchison. Visitation with the family will be Friday from 5:00 P.M. until time of services at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to assist with cremation expenses and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom the final arrangements have been entrusted. Online condolences and messages to the family may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Melvin was born on June 16, 1930 in Iowa Falls, Iowa the son of Elvin L. and Marie (Hamre) Benshoof.

He and the former Shirley Ownby were united in marriage on May 30, 1987 at the United Methodist Church in Atchison, Kansas.

He worked in the janitorial department of Midwest Grain Products in Atchison, Kansas until his retirement.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Atchison. Melvin was a collector of eagles and loved anything about old cars and car shows. He also enjoyed spending time fishing.

Melvin is survived by his wife, Shirley Benshoof, Atchison, KS, a daughter, Lilly Benshoof and her fiancé Jonathan Lincoln, Atchison, KS, and two sisters, Beverly Joyce and Betty Lou.

He was preceded in death by six brothers, Mervin, Lewis, Keith, Verdell, Lavern and Dale Benshoof, and three sisters, Arlene Evelyn, Shirley Pike and Mary Delores.

Julia M. “Bitsy” Griffith, 89, Atchison, Kansas died Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at her home.

Funeral services will be Monday, April 10, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Monday from 10:00 A.M. until time of services at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Parish and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Bitsy was born June 5, 1927 in Atchison, Kansas the daughter of James and Myrtle Martin Griffith. She attended St. Joseph and St. Benedict Elementary Schools, graduating from Mt. Saint Scholastica Academy. She then attended Highland Community Junior College.

Bitsy was employed with Electra Company in Atchison and then became employed with Holly’s Nursing Home as a social service representative. Following the closing of Holly’s Nursing Home she joined Grace Hollingsworth in the opening of Medicalodge Nursing Home in their social service department and continued with Medicalodge until her retirement in 1982.

She was a member of St. Benedict Parish of Atchison. In her free time of retirement, Bitsy became an avid reader to occupy her time. She formed a relationship with many Benedictine College students who frequently visited in her home.

She is survived by nieces and nephews including Rosemary Gary, Atchison, KS; Kellie King-Baltezor, Lawrence, KS; Barbara Yumang, Wichita, KS; Jim Gary, Leavenworth, KS; and Joe Gary, Leavenworth, KS; and many cousins and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by three sisters, Betty Jane Gary, Jimmie Mae Morphis, Mary JoAnn McCray, two brothers, Bud Griffith and Jack Griffith.

Pauline H. Wisdom, 100, of Sabetha passed away Thursday, April 6, 2017 at the Sabetha Community Hospital.

She was born on December 22, 1916 to Robert and Fannie (Hock) Wempe in Seneca, Kansas. She attended school in Seneca and worked on the family farm and dairy business. She was married to Irvin Wisdom on November 26, 1935. They established a home near Bern. In this union were born 3 children: Vonda, Ronald, and Eldon. They moved to a rented farm south of Sabetha, where they lived until the house was destroyed by a fire in December 1949. They then purchased a farm north of Goff, where they lived for 30 years until retiring and moving to Sabetha.

Pauline spent all of her married life as a home maker. She enjoyed gardening and especially flowers of which she had many. She was also a seamstress, knitter, crocheted, and hand quilted until the age of 90. Her quilts went to many states and 7 to Hawaii with always a waiting list. She quilted for over 80 years. Pauline was also a member of the United Brethren Church in Sabetha.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Irvin Wisdom on October 23, 1999; her daughter, Vonda McClain on December 20, 1994; a sister, Virginia Studer; and a grandson, Ricky McClain on December 18, 2012.

She is survived by her two sons, Ronald (Marie) Wisdom of Silver Lake, KS, and Eldon (Anita) Wisdom of Concordia, KS; and 10 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, April 12, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Visitation will be Wednesday morning from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel. The interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sabetha Community Hospital, sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Sabetha, Kansas 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Barbara Ellen Wenzl, 90 of Pawnee City, NE passed away peacefully Tuesday April 4, 2017 at the Pawnee County Hospital. She was born January 8, 1927, the 9th of 10 children to Stephen and Minnie(Gottula) Wenzl in Steinauer, NE.

She grew up on the family farm northeast of Steinauer, attended St. Anthony's school and then High School in Steinauer.

In 1949 she moved with her infant son to the farm and home of Joy and Hester Wilson west of Pawnee City to work as a domestic aid and companion for Hester.

In 1979 she went to work at the Pawnee Manor where she was a CNA and Medication aid for several years before finally retiring at the age of 80.

Her life was never easy but to complain she would say there was "no need". Happiness was found with her family and on many outdoor adventures with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Gardening, crossword puzzles, collecting recipes and cookbooks, bluebirds and coloring many pictures took up her spare time.

She had a strong will but an even stronger faith. She is loved and missed by many.

She is survived by her only son Galen Wenzl, Pawnee City. Granddaughter Carrie( Todd ) Albers, Liberty, NE. Grandson Steven( Stephanie ) Wenzl, Milbank, SD. Great grandchildren Ashton (Preston) Sunneberg, Hayden Albers, Siera and Kale Wenzl. Sister Valeria Wenzl Shearer, Lincoln, NE, Sister in law Jean Wenzl, Lincoln, NE, several nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stephen and Minnie(Gottula ) Wenzl. Two sisters; Francis and Agnes, and six brothers; Raymond, Richard, Julius, Lawrence, Robert and Walter.

Memorial services 11:00 am Tuesday April 18, 2017 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Burchard, NE. Rosary at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, April 17, 2017 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Father Michael Christensen officiating. Register book available for signing on Monday, April 17, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.,  at Wherry Mortuary, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Inurnment at the St. Anthony’s Catholic Cemetery, Steinauer, Nebraska.  Memorials to family choice.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Hudson Wayne Rottinghaus, stillborn infant of Sara R. Rottinghaus and Mark Singleton died on Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca.

He is survived on his maternal side, by a sister, McKenzie Rottinghaus of Seneca; grandparents, Wayne and Marilyn Gress Rottinghaus of Seneca; a great-grandmother, Helen Rottinghaus of Seneca; and his aunts, Tammy Rottinghaus and Jill Rottinghaus of Seneca.

Preceded in death by his great grandparents, Albert A. Rottinghaus on December 28, 2000, Norbert Francis Gress on July 21, 2016 and Maleta Gress on November 25, 1984.

A visitation will be on held on Saturday, April 8th  from 9 to 10 A.M. at  St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. The Mass of Angels will follow the visitation at 10 A.M., with the burial in the church cemetery.

Memorials are to be designated at a later date.

The Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca is in charge of the arrangements.

Gary L. Holthaus, 72, of Onaga, died Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at the Onaga Health and Rehabilitation Center.
 
He was born January 11, 1945 at Seneca, the son of Adolph and Esther Stuke Holthaus.  He graduated from Baileyville High School in 1963.
 
After high school Gary worked at The Creamery in Sabetha until he married.  He then worked at Goodyear in Topeka for about ten years, farmed south of Havensville, and since 1982 has owned and operated Northeast Transit trucking company.
                                                                                                                                               
He was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Onaga and had served as the Parish Council President for several years.  He served on the Onaga City Council from 1997 to 1999, and was the city Mayor from 1999 to 2013.
 
Gary married Beryl Ann Haverkamp on October 2, 1965 at Baileyville.  She died August 22, 2013.
 
He was also preceded in death by a son, Kevin Holthaus, who died in 1981.
 
Survivors include two daughters, Julie Falk (Rodney), Maple Hill and Dana Brock (Rocky), Kearney, MO; two sons, Brad Holthaus (Lori), Topeka and Matt Holthaus (Heather), Maple Hill; four brothers, Bob Holthaus, Seneca, Jim Holthaus, Topeka, Keith Holthaus, Holton, and Steve Holthaus, Seneca; a sister, Bev Holthaus, Wamego, fifteen grandchildren and two great grandsons.
 
Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 8th at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.  Inurnment will be later in Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery at Seneca.  Gary will lie in state until 4:00 p.m. Friday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Onaga.  He will lie in state after 5:00 p.m. at the church where visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary prayed at 7:00. 

Memorials are suggested to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church or Great Lakes Hospice, and may be sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, P.O. Box 312, Onaga, 66521.  On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com
 

Richard Niesluchowski, 78, Valley Falls, died Wednesday, April 5, 2017, at his home.

He was born July 14, 1938, at Chicago, IL, the son of Edward & Ruby May Niesluchowski. He graduated from Farragut High School at Chicago in 1956.    

Richard served in the US Army and was stationed at Ft. Leavenworth. He had attended Calvary Baptist Church in Valley Falls.

He worked at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. in Topeka for over 25 years and was a member of United Steel Workers Local 307.

He married Carol James, Sept. 19, 1964, at Broadview, IL. She survives of the home. Other survivors include his son, Samuel Niesluchowski, Orlando, FL; two daughters, Dr. Pamela Niesluchowski, and her husband, Travis Nielsen, Oak Park, IL, and Wendy Ribelin, and her husband, Thomas, Crown Point, IN; a brother, William Niesluchowski, and his wife, Sharon, North Riverside, IL; six grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

A Memorial Service will be at 2:30 p.m. Monday, April 10, 2017, at the Calvary Baptist Church in Valley Falls. Inurnment will follow at the Valley Falls Cemetery with military honors conducted by Grahem-Herbers Post 3084, Veterans of Foreign Wars. Visitation will be from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Sunday at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Valley Falls Food Pantry and sent c/o Mercer Funeral Home, PO Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. Online condolences are welcome at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

David Laurance Small, 73, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at the Horton Community Hospital.

He was born on October 11, 1943 in Horton, Kansas the son of Laurance and Ione Denton Small. David attended Mound Valley country school east of Horton, Kansas. David attended the Horton Christian Church and the Willis Christian Church. He loved golf, riding his bicycle, taking pictures and supporting Horton High School athletics. He was an avid supporter of the State of Kansas.

Survivors include three sisters, Virginia Miller of Houston, Texas, Charlene Branch of Willis, Kansas and Rise` Hoffman of Denton, Kansas; sister-in-law, Sharon Small of Sabetha, Kansas; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jon Small.

Graveside services will be at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, April 8, 2017 at the Horton City Cemetery. The family will greet friends on Saturday at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary from 1:00 P.M. until 2:00 and then go in procession to the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Horton Ambulance fund or the Mission Village Living Center and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Wathena, Kansas Alfred C. Schoenfeldt Jr., 86, of Wathena, Kansas Passed away Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at the Wathena Nursing & Rehab Center.

Bud was born on June 2, 1930 in West Point, Nebraska to Alfred Chris & Crystal (Beck) Schoenfeldt Sr.

He was a carpenter & a cabinet maker. Bud drove the school bus for Wathena Schools for 22 years, in which he was very proud of.

Bud married Charlene (Heinen) Winchester on May 21, 1981. She survives of the home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Art & Jimmie Schoenfeldt, & a sister, Evelyn Stifner.

Additional survivors, daughters, Debbie Halberg & Diane Schoenfeldt,  Son, Dennis Schoenfeldt 11 grandchildren & 2 great-grandchildren Step-sons, Michael, Randy & Scott Winchester Step-daughter, Rhonda Morris Brother, Alvie (Marie) Schoenfeldt Nieces & nephews

Funeral Service: 1 P.M. Saturday, April 8, 2017 At the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena, Kansas Visitation: 1 hour prior to service at 12noon at the funeral home, where friends may call after 3 P.M. Friday. Bud’s wishes are to be cremated after services, with inurnment at a later date. Memorials: American Diabetes Association or the Wathena EMS. www.harmanrohde.com

Darlene G. Boyette, 84, Auburn, died Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at her home.

She was born Nov. 13, 1932, at Ozawkie, the daughter of Everett and Lillie Meyers King. She graduated from Ozawkie High School in 1950.

She married Woodie L. Boyette, Dec. 7, 1951, at Topeka.

Darlene was a day care provider in her home for over 20 years. She had worked in the Insurance Department of Capper’s Weekly Publication in Topeka. She had attended Shawnee Heights Christian Church.

Darlene was preceded in death by a son in infancy; two brothers, Everett King Jr. and Alvin King; and five sisters, Lecta Decker, Oleta King, Louise Illig, Betty Butterfield, and Arlene Payne.

Survivors include her husband, Woodie, of the home; two sons, Philip Boyette, Topeka, and Paul Boyette, Springhill; four daughters, Patricia (Stan) Compton, and Pamela (Daryl) Compton, all of Topeka, Paula (James) Fox, Olathe, and Page (Mike) Lollman, Broken Arrow, OK; a sister, Linda Metzger, Valley Falls; 15 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

The funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 10, 2017, at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Burial will follow at the Ozawkie Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Memorial contributions may be made to United Cerebral Palsy of Kansas and sent c/o Mercer Funeral Home, PO Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. Online condolences are welcome at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.
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Richard Louis Traxler, 72, of Perry, died Monday, April 3, 2017 at Lawrence Memorial Hospital.

Richard was born February 3, 1945 in Lawrence, the son of  Louis F. and Marie Elizabeth Cottrell Traxler. He was a 1963 graduate of Lecompton High School. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Reserves, serving six years, from 1965 to 1971. 

Richard was a farmer for more than 50 years in the Perry and Lecompton area. He owned property in Dubois, WY, where he enjoyed helping friends with  the building of cabins, barns and fencing, and helping with hunting trips. He was a member of the American Legion Post #142, Perry.  

He was married to Dorothy “Dotty” Schaake on July 26, 1969 in Lawrence, she preceded him in death on November 9, 1989. He was also preceded in death by his longtime companion, Dawn R. Finley on December 7, 2016.

He is survived by one daughter, Nicole Ann (Terry) Collins, Concordia, KS, one sister, Linda (Robbie) Orr, Linwood, KS, one grandson, Trey Collins, Concordia, KS, and extended family, Chad (Misty) Finley and family, Haysville, KS.

Services at 11:00 AM, Saturday at Perry American Legion Post #142, Perry.  Visitation 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Friday at Barnett Family Funeral Home, Oskaloosa.  Cremation to follow services. 

Memorials suggested to the Bighorn Sheep Center, Dubois, WY, or to Palliative Care unit of Lawrence Memorial Hospital in care of the Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602, Oskaloosa, KS   66066.   http://www.barnettfamilyfh.com/

ST. JOSEPH, MO - Virginia (Forbes) Sheridan, 90, of St. Joseph, Missouri died Sunday, April 2, 2017 in St. Joseph, Missouri. 

Virginia was born on January 30, 1927 in Wathena, Kansas to Russell and Edith (Wilson) Forbes. She lived in Elwood until moving to St. Joseph in 1993. Virginia worked and retired from J C Penny in St. Joseph. 

Virginia is a member of the First Baptist Church in Wathena and the American Baptist Women of the church. 

She married Gerald “Jerry” Sheridan on June 8, 1946 in Elwood, Kansas. He preceded her in death on January 29, 2003. Virginia was also preceded by her parents. 

She is survived by daughter, Pat Hughes (Les) of Topeka, Kansas; 
Sons; Steven Bruce (Janet) Sheridan and Tim Sheridan both of St. Joseph, MO; 
4 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren; 
Sisters; Dixie Paden of Wathena; 
June Handley of St. Joseph, Missouri; 
Brothers; Russell (Eddie) Forbes of Wathena; 
Phil Forbes of Richardson, Texas; 
Numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends. 

FUNERAL: Friday, April 7, 2017 – 11:00 A.M. 
At: First Baptist Church – Wathena 
Interment: Bellemont Cemetery – Wathena 
Visitation: 1 hour prior at 10:00 A.M at the church. Friends may call after 2 P.M. Wednesday at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena. 
Memorials: In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to the First Baptist Church or the American Baptist Women of the church.

Marlene Gerdes, age 82 of Auburn, passed away Tuesday, April 04, 2017 at Long’s Creek Assisted Living in Auburn.

Survivors include her sons Jerry of Omaha; Terry of Aurora; Craig and wife Bobbi of Lousiville; grandchildren Tara and Trent; sisters Bernice Grable of Auburn; Judy and husband Robert Pence of Kearney, MO; other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be Friday, April 7, 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Auburn. Burial will follow in St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 6:00 to 8:00.

Memorials are suggested to St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.

Jack L. Anderson, 78, of Hoyt, KS passed away Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at his home. He was born February 1, 1939 in Holton, KS the son of Stanley A. and Geneva L. (Whiting) Anderson.

Jack graduated from Denison High School in 1957. He had lived in the Hoyt community since 1972. Jack worked as a meat cutter in north Topeka and has also worked in Nebraska and Missouri. He was a member of the Union Local #576.

Jack married Charlene Pappan on February 1, 1958 in Holton. She survives of the home. Other survivors include 2 sons, Gary Anderson (Leslie) of Meriden, KS and Doug Anderson (Brandy) of Netawaka, KS; a sister, Barbara Miller of Denison, KS; 5 grandchildren, Blake, Brock, Kacie, Taylor and Colt and 5 great-grandchildren, Kadyn, Paisley, Camden, Hoyt and Axel.

Funeral Services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 8, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Denison Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation EMS or the Holton Family Health Clinic c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.
 

Betty Carl (Volk) Taylor, 90, formerly of Atchison, KS died peacefully on Monday, April 03, 2017 at the New Mark Care Center, Kansas City, MO surround by her loving family.

Funeral services will be 11:00 am on Saturday, April 8th, 2017 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Rev. Harry Foockle, Pastor of the Antioch Community Church officiating. Burial will follow in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 am on Saturday until time of service at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Antioch Community Church, Kansas City, MO and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home.  Condolences to the family may be left online atwww.beckerdyer.com.

Betty was born on May 18, 1926 in Atchison, KS the daughter of Carl A. and Alice M. (Robb) Volk.  She graduated from Atchison High School in 1944 and attended the Northeast Kansas Area Vo-Technical School.  Betty had worked as a secretary for Blish-Mize Company, and the Fox Drug Company, Kansas City, MO.  She was a member of the Platte Woods United Methodist Church, and the Martha Washington Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star.  She enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Betty was married to William F. Taylor.  They were later divorced. Survivors include her daughter, Anne Volk-Wilcox, Kansas City, MO, a brother, Charles Volk, Sr., Overland Park, KS, four grandchildren, a great grandchild on the way who will be named Taylor and several nieces and nephews.

Her parents, a son, Robert C. Taylor, and two sisters, Dorcus Merriman, and an infant, Alice Volk, preceded her in death.

Kasie Dawn Steinlage, 30, of Topeka, KS passed away Monday, April 3, 2017 at Stormont Vail Hospital. She was born February 12, 1987 in Topeka, the daughter of Leon Lambert Steinlage and Lucille Ann (Holliday) Steinlage.

Kasie attended Topeka West High School and had lived all her life in Topeka.

Survivors include her father and step-mother, Leon and Sandy Steinlage of Topeka, KS; her son, Juelian Steinlage of Topeka, KS; a brother, Shawn Steinlage (Kristen) of Dallas, TX; 4 step-sisters, Angie Hallows of Kansas City, KS, Julie Hallows of Topeka, KS, Jamie Hernandez (Ben) of Grandview, MO and Megan Hallows of Topeka, KS; 2 nephews, Dion Hallows and Jerrick Beck and a niece, Zella Hallows.

Kasie was preceded in death by her mother, Lucille Ann Steinlage on November 5, 2004.

Memorial Services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 10, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Inurnment will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Monday morning at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Juelian Steinlage Educational Fund c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Arlene Rogers, 92, of Kansas City, MO (formerly of Falls City, NE), passed away April 1, 2017 at Kansas City. She was born May 14, 1924 at Stella, NE to the late Wesley and Edna (Arington) Curfman.

She married Peter Rogers at Hiawatha, KS. He passed away October 29, 1988.

Arlene was raised in the Dawson and Stella areas and graduated Dawson High School in 1942. When married the couple established their home in Falls City. She was a homemaker her entire life and when she moved to Pioneer Plaza she attended and enjoyed St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Ladies Coffee on Thursday mornings. She moved to Kansas City in 2011 to be near her daughters. She was a member of First Brethren Church and American Legion Auxiliary #102 of Falls City.

Arlene is survived by her daughters, April Mahoney, Pamela Lange and her husband Steven both of Overland Park, KS, six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers, Fred, Edward and Bob Curfman, sisters, Verna Bauman and Minnie Kuker and a granddaughter, Angela Lange.

Her funeral will be held on Thursday, April 6, 2017 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Reverend Andrew Chavanak officiating. Interment will be in Heim Cemetery at Dawson.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Dean Chapman 80 of rural Summerfield, Kansas, passed away on Monday, April 3, 2017 .

Funeral services 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 6, 2017 at Summerfield Community Center, Summerfield, Kansas. Visitation 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 6 prior to funeral at the Summerfield Community Center.  Officiating Pastor Howard Blecha.  Interment at Center Cemetery, rural Summerfield, Kansas. Memorials to Colonial Acres, Humboldt, Nebraska.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com
 

Patricia Lee (Grover) Dodds, (90), most recently of Onaga, Kansas, died Saturday, April 1, 2017 at the Community Hospital in Onaga.

She was born June 28, 1926, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka, Kansas.  Her parents were Orrin and Opal (Day) Grover.  She attended PleasantValley Grade School and graduated from Onaga High School in 1944.

Patricia married her childhood sweetheart, Courtland Warren Dodds on October 25, 1944.  They were married in her parents’ home in Onaga.  She spent most of her adult life in Seneca, Kansas; winters in Texas, and later retired to Climax Springs, MO, before returning to Onaga.

She was employed by Santa Fe Railroad of Topeka, Todd Tractor Company of Seneca, and served as the Deputy County Treasurer for NemahaCounty.  Patricia was also a homemaker for many years.

Patricia enjoyed cooking and spending time with her family.

She was a member of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Onaga.  She was also a member of the Order of Eastern Star.

She is survived by her husband Courtland.  Other survivors include two daughters, Diane (John) Harkness, Maple Hill, KS; Connie (Richard) Flammang, Climax Springs, MO; three grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and one great-great grandson.  Patricia was especially attached to her granddaughter, Tracey Talley.

Her parents preceded her in death.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, April 6th at the First Congregational, UCC in Onaga.  Visitation will be from 1:00 until service time.  Burial will follow in the Onaga Cemetery.  Patricia will lie in state Wednesday and until noon Thursday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Onaga.  On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Charles Robert “Arch” Brenner, 85, of Holton, KS passed away Sunday, April 2, 2017 at Holton Community Hospital. He was born October 20, 1931 in Arrington, Kansas, the son of Ralph Adam and Elsie Mae (Auxier) Brenner.

Arch attended Arrington Grade School and Effingham High School; he later received his GED. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict from 1951 – 1953. After serving his country, Arch worked for over 40 years for the Kansas Department of Transportation as an engineer and in maintenance.

He was a member of the Larkinburg Christian Church. He served as manager and secretary of the Larkinburg Cemetery from 1964 to 2017 and was a member of AF & AM Masonic Lodge in Netawaka. He was also a member of Odd Fellows, American Legion Post 44 and life member of V.F.W. Post 1367, all in Holton.

Arch married Mary Ann Logsdon on June 18, 1954. She passed away September 27, 1999. He was also preceded in death by an infant sister, Charlene Brenner and 4 brothers, Wilbur, Junior, Don and George Brenner.

Survivors include a daughter, Jeanne Jenson (Bradley) of Holton, KS; 4 grandchildren, Andrew Jenson (Danielle), Amy Mellenburch (Troy), Betsy Jenson (Mike) and Zach Jenson; and 7 great-grandchildren, Issiah, Walker and Carter Jenson, Ahnna and Cammee Mellenbruch and Preston and Parker Harris.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 6, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial with Military Honors will follow in the Larkinburg Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Larkinburg Christian Church or Heart of Jackson Humane Society c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Justin Edward Rottinghaus, 92, of Seneca, KS died Saturday, April 1st, 2017 at Crestview Nursing Home in Seneca, Kansas.

Justin was born January 14, 1925 at a rural home southwest of St. Benedict, KS, son of Alvin and Rose Haverkamp Rottinghaus.  He graduated from the 8th grade at St. Mary’s School in 1940.  He then helped on the family farm.  He also repaired watches and trapped for furs used in the war effort.

On October 14, 1948 he married Frances Niehues at St. Bede’s Church in Kelly, Kansas.  She survives at the home in Seneca.  They raised crops and livestock at their farm north of St. Benedict.  Justin also owned a bulldozer and did conservation work.  After that he ran a rock quarry, sand and gravel business.  He continued to farm until 1985 when he suffered a severe stroke which left him partially paralyzed.  He moved to Seneca in 1986 and then to Crestview Nursing Home in 2011 until his death.

He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Seneca and formerly a member of St. Mary’s Church in St. Benedict, where he served on the church council.  He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #1769 in Seneca.  He served on the Clear Creek township board and was a director on the Nemaha-Marshall Electric Cooperative.

He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.  His hobbies included hunting, fishing, playing cards, woodworking, tinkering/fixing things and square dancing. He was always smiling, joking and happy to see you.  His life was an inspiration to many as he rarely complained about his condition during those 31 years.

Survivors besides his wife Frances are his six children: Dianne (Larry) Halley of Overland Park, KS; Terry (Peggy) Rottinghaus of Axtell, KS; Don (Sue) Rottinghaus of Raymond, NE; Betty (Don) Wessel of Paola, KS; Bob (Annette) Rottinghaus of Baileyville, KS; Jeanne (Judd) O’Connor of Adel, IA; seven siblings: Dorothy Fangman of Pasco, WA; MaryAnn Dressman of Frankfort, KS; Mildred Heinen of Pasco, WA; Elmer Rottinghaus of Prairie Village, KS; Rosalita Skeels of Concordia, KS; Galen Rottinghaus of Pasco, WA; and Regis Rottinghaus of Pasco, WA; 16 Grandchildren and 22 Great-Grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Wilbert, Albert and Leonard Rottinghaus.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 and 7 PM Tuesday, April 4th, at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.  Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, April 5th, 2017 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.  Burial will be at St. Bede’s cemetery.

Memorials are for Sts. Peter and Paul Church Window Fund and or/ St. Mary’s Church Roof Fund sent in care of the family.

To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

Herbert Eugene Olson, 87, of Hiawatha, died Friday morning, March 31, 2017, at Hiawatha Community Hospital.

He was born August 25, 1929, in St. Joseph, Missouri, one of two sons born to Charles and Vivian Jacques Olson and had lived in northeast Kansas his entire life. He grew up in the Highland-Robinson areas and graduated from Robinson High School with the class of 1949. In high school, he played basketball. He served two years in the U.S. Army before he was discharged in 1957. Herb returned to this area and worked for the Robinson Co op for many years until he retired.

Herbert was a member of the First Baptist Church Family Life Center in Hiawatha. He enjoyed camping and spending time with family and friends. He never met a stranger, loved to talk to anyone who would listen. Later in life, he enjoyed bird watching.

He married the former Betty Adams, July 10, 1955. She survives of the home.

Also surviving are five sons: Douglas (Lisa) Olson of Hiawatha, Steve (Robin) Olson of Burlington Junction, MO, Charles (Teresa) Olson of Hiawatha, Jeffery (Margaret) Olson of Hiawatha, Rick (Mary) Olson of Hiawatha; two daughters: Teresa (Gary) Campbell of Clarksdale, MO, Pamela (Steven) Gunnells of Nolensville, TN; 16 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is also survived by an aunt Ruth Montague.

Herb was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother James.

A Celebration of Herbert’s life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 4, at the First Baptist Church Family Life Center, with Pastor James Callaway officiating. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, Robinson. The family will meet with friends from 6 until 8 Monday evening at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Family Life Center, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434. A special message or remembrance may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Michael E. McDermed, 69 years old, Retired Fire Chief of the Atchison, Kansas Fire Department, passed away Thursday, March 30, 2017 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Celebration of Life Services will be Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at 2:00 P.M. at the Atchison Event Center, 710 S. 9th Street, Atchison, KS. Visitation with the family will be Tuesday, April 4, 2017 from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. The family encourages dressing in bright colors or Hawaiian attire. Memorial contributions are suggested to the National Brain Tumor Society (NBTSevents.braintumor.org/2017chiefscombatforacure) or the Michael McDermed Memorial Fund c/o City of Atchison. Online condolences and messages to the family may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Michael was born on April 26, 1947 in Topeka, Kansas the son of John and Minnie (Lipps) McDermed. He attended Franklin Elementary School in Atchison and graduated from Atchison High School in 1966. He was awarded numerous scholarships in the Arts and due to his athletic abilities in gymnastics received many athletic scholarships. He attended Kansas State University, participating in gymnastics, where he was an all-around champion.

He and the former Diane Kimmi were united in marriage on October 9, 1971 at St. Benedict’s Church in Atchison, Kansas with Fr. Roderic Giller, OSB as celebrant.

Prior to his employment with the Atchison Fire Department, Mike modeled for the Atchison Leather Products Company and served as an usher at the former Fox Theatre.

Mike began with the Atchison Fire Department on February 14, 1971 and was promoted to Fire Chief on June 1, 1981, where he served as Fire Chief for an unprecedented 35 years. He remained with the department until his retirement on June 17, 2016. Throughout his career he had several periods where he served as an interim City Manager.

He was a member of the National Association of Fire Chiefs, Kansas State Association of Fire Chiefs, and was an active participant in the Kansas League of Municipalities. He was an avid softball player in the Atchison community for many years. He enjoyed weekly trips to movie theatres to watch numerous different movies. Mike and Diane enjoyed their many years of traveling to Florida to spend time with their son and his family. He was also an avid sports fan of the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys. He was dearly loved by his many family friends and his co-workers.

Mike is survived by his wife of 45 years, Diane McDermed, of the couple’s home in Atchison, KS, a son, Brandon and his wife Dr. Jenna McDermed, Orlando, FL, two grandchildren, Elliet McDermed and Ronan McDermed, and a sister, Bev Crum, Parkville, MO.

Merlyn Ann “Fritzie” Blandin, 77, of Hiawatha, died Thursday afternoon, March 30, 2017, at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha.

She was born at Mt. Hope, Kansas, July 5, 1939, one of nine children born to Elmer and May Johnson Romig.  She grew up at Mt. Hope, attended school there where she later graduated high school.  Fritzie lived at Burrton, Hutchison, and moved to Hiawatha to be near her daughter Tammy about 18 years ago.  She worked for Flair Fold in Hiawatha for about 10 years.  She began working as a Green Thumb worker, first in the office at NEK CAP in the Brown County Courthouse, later for Big Brothers Big Sisters a few years before she retired.

Fritzie loved her family first, loved to watch KU Basketball and was a whiz at growing African violets.  She enjoyed raising pansies and iris.  To say Merlyn loved to sew was an understatement—she started sewing at a young age.  She also enjoyed  craft painting and reading.

She married Glenn Dale Blandin, December 6, 1955, at Seagraves, Texas.

Survivors include her children: Glen Dale Blandin of Round Rock, Texas, Jeff Blandin (Mabel) of Hutchinson, Kansas, Tammy Adams (James) of Hiawatha, Terry McMillan (Brian) of Hillsboro, Kansas, Jennifer Jaquet (Brian), also of Hutchinson; 19 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.  Also surviving is a brother Virgil Romig of Lansing, Michigan; with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings:  Lawrence, John, Edna Hackett, Edith “Maxine” Athens, Betty Bitter, Nellie Reichenberger, and Ella Rose Walker.

Cremation is planned with a memorial service to be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Merlyn Blandin Memorial Fund, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com