Gladys E. Koelzer, 82, of Seneca, died on Monday, July 31, 2017 at Life Care Center of Seneca.

Gladys Emma was born on February 26, 1935 to Raphael Thomas and Florence Ann Tanking Gudenkauf southwest of Corning, Kansas.  She attended Sts. Peter & Paul Grade School and High; graduating from High School, May 1953.  As a young woman, she worked for Merchants National Bank in Topeka as a bookkeeper until 1959.

On February 7, 1959, she married Melvin Henry Koelzer at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. They lived and farmed in the Corning community until Melvin’s death on January 1,2001.

She was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church of Corning, St. Patrick’s Altar Society and St Patrick’s Church Choir, until 2001 when she moved to Seneca after her husband’s death.  She was a member of the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church.  She quilted with both church Altar Societies.  She enjoyed word search, scrabble, embroidery,  playing cards and BINGO.  She took immense pleasure with the time she spent with her four grandsons.

Besides her husband of 42 years, she was preceded in death by her Father on June 18, 1981 and her Mother on December 16, 2013.

She is survived by her twin children, Jane (Phil) Halling of Lancaster and Gerald (Irene) Koelzer of Corning; five sisters, Mary Grace (Hank) Elder of Overland Park, Marilyn (Dave) Carlson of Seneca, Elsie (Glenn) Stueve of Hiawatha, Phyllis (Cletus)  Broxterman of Baileyville and Joyce (Gene) Klingele of Basehor; four grandsons, Allen (April) Halling, Todd (Jenny) Halling, Greg Koelzer and Jared Koelzer; and three great-grandchildren, Noah Ryker and Brooke.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM Wednesday, August 2, 2017, at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 AM Thursday, August 3, 2017, at Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Seneca. Burial will be in the St. Patrick’s Church Cemetery.

Memorials are for Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church or St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.
To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

Edwin Lee Buttner, 68, of Seneca, KS passed away Saturday, July 29, 2017 at the Sabetha Manor.

He was born on February 12, 1949 to Dorothy (Boydsten) Buttner at home in Seneca, KS. Ed attended Seneca Grade School until the 8th grade, and was later drafted into the U.S. Army on December 26, 1969. He served as a heavy vehicle driver in Vietnam and Germany during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home in January 1971 he enlisted in the Kansas National Guard and served until January 15, 1975. Ed worked for several businesses including, Nemaha County Road & Bridge Department, Tanking Equipment Company, Jim Shump Body Shop, Landolls Corporation, and later running his own auto body business, Ed’s Body Shop. 

He was a proud member of American Legion Post #21.  He served on the military honor guard at the post.

Ed married Christine (Lucas) on August 8, 1971 at the United Brethren Church in Sabetha, KS. Christine passed away on April 23, 2006. They made their home in the Seneca area celebrating 34 years of marriage, and having three children. Ed loved to fish and work on vehicles. One of his favorite things was attending local car shows. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy; his wife, Christine on April 23, 2006; his brothers, Frank and Carl Buttner; and sisters, Velma McClintock and Edith Tate.

He is survived by his loving children and grandchildren; daughters, Rita (Patrick) Tangeman of Bern, KS, and Cheryl (James) Johnson of Sabetha, KS; a son, Johnathan Buttner of Axtell, KS; sisters, Ruby Menhausen of Grand Island, NE; Rosie Monaghan of Hiawatha, KS, and Marcia Buttner of Emporia, KS; grandchildren, Tyler (Krystal) Tangeman, Brianna and Devon Johnson; and two great grand-daughters, Isabella and Graclynn Tangeman.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, August 2, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Memorial Chapel in Seneca, KS. Prayer service will be Tuesday, August 1, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. with a visitation from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be made at the Seneca Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by the American Legion Post # 21.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post #21 of Seneca, and Nemaha County Hospice, sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle, Seneca, KS 66538. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Charlene (Heinen) Schoenfeldt, 80, of Wathena, Kansas entered heaven Friday, July 28, 2017. She was surrounded by her children in passing. 
 

Charlene arrived in this world on January 23, 1937. The first child of Magdlena (Maggie) and Aloysius (Allie) Heinen, she was raised on a small farm south of Denton, Kansas. Charlene attended school in Denton where she learned to play the flute and clarinet, and was elected Queen of the Apple Blossom festival in Wathena, Kansas. 

She met her first love, Larry Winchester while in school and they married in April 1956. Making her home in Denton, Charlene believed her greatest accomplishment was raising three sons and a daughter. But there was so much more to her than being a wife and mother. She served as temporary bookkeeper and office staff at the family’s grain elevator during harvest time, she was a hunting companion with her husband on trips for pheasant in western Kansas and the Dakotas.

She helped with family finances by painting people’s houses, and helped her husband coach little league teams and ran the concession stand at ball games. Her charity extended to less fortunate families in the area, providing food, clothing, and sometimes shelter in times of need. Even going so far as to feed the “hobos” who would visit her back porch as they walked up from the rail line not far from her home. 
 

In 1977 she moved to Wathena, Kansas and took a job with Allied Glass in St. Joe. She went on to work as a librarian at the Wathena grade school and eventually moved on to employment at the Farmers State Bank in Wathena from which she retired in 2012. Charlene was a fixture at the drive-through teller window at the bank. 
 

While living in Wathena she met her second love, Alfred (Bud) Schoenfeldt. They married in May 1981 and made their home in Willis Park, Wathena, until they moved to a new home on Jesse St. The house was her pride and joy, she helped her husband keep a garden and the porch was filled with plants. She had many bird feeders, and loved seeing the cardinals, finches and hummingbirds. She even made a spot for the squirrels. It was here she doted on grandchildren, and great grandchildren, providing Easter egg hunts, Christmas celebrations, and Thanksgiving feasts. Her refrigerator was always filled, waiting for family to visit. 
 

Charlene was an adventurous soul. She traveled the United States, from California to Washington D.C. Many a family vacation was spent in the Missouri Ozarks. She visited Puerto Rico, Acapulco, Bermuda, Rome and Vatican City, and Norway. 
 

Charlene had a strong abiding faith. She attended St. Benedict’s and St. Vincent’s Catholic Churches in Bendena and Severance, Kansas, and most recently was a member of St. Joseph’s Church in Wathena. She loved as Jesus did, unconditionally and without judgement. She stood by, supported, and always prayed for each of her loved ones and others in need. 
 

She was preceded in death by her spouse, Bud Schoenfeldt, her parents, and two brothers, John Heinen and Leroy Heinen. She is survived by her brother Ronald Heinen. 
 

Survivors include; 3 sons, Michael Zane Winchester of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Randy Winchester of Olathe, Kansas, Scott Winchester of Kansas City, Missouri, and a daughter, Rhonda Morris of Shawnee, Kansas. She had 2 step-daughters, Debra Ann Helberg and Diane Schoenfeldt, and a step-son, Dennis Schoenfeldt, and 14 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren. 

MASS: Tuesday, August 1, 2017 – 10:30 A.M. 
At: St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wathena 
Burial: St. Benedict’s Catholic Cemetery in Bendena, Kansas 
Rosary: Monday evening 6:30 with visitation to follow at the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena 
Memorials: Catholic Charities 
Thank you for loving us, guiding us, bringing everyone together and always praying for us. Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, wife and friend. You earned a front row seat in Heaven.

Nancy K. Gormly, 71, of Atchison, KS, passed away Friday, July 28, 2017 at her home in Atchison.

Funeral Services will be 10:00 AM, Tuesday, August 1, 2017, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Chris Wagner, officiating. Burial will follow in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Atchison. Visitation with the family will be from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Monday, July 31, 2017 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Helping Hands for the Holidays and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Words of comfort and sympathy may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.Nancy K. Hager was born on June 25, 1946 in Atchison, the daughter of Jack and Marjorie (Rosenauer) Hager. Nancy was a graduate of Atchison County Community High School and worked as Head of Housekeeping at Benedictine College for over 30 years until her health led to her retirement. Nancy enjoyed working in her yard and making crafts. Nancy also loved the time she got to spend with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Nancy Hager and Jerald Gormly were married in Atchison and they later divorced. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Michael ‘Grump’ Gormly (12-8-15); and a sister, Betty Blide (7-13-17).

Survivors include a daughter, Margie (Don) Besette, Atchison; five grandchildren, Shandel Gormly and Steven, Jordan Hord and Cody, Kaleb Gormly, Jenna Hord, and Kyllee Besette; great grandchildren, McKayla Bishop, Michael Bishop and a great grandson due in September 2017; sisters, Barbara Hager and Connie Jones, both of Atchison.

Harry (Buddy) Goodman, 92, of Sabetha, KS passed away on Friday, July 28, 2017.

Harry was born on November 26, 1924 to Clay and Mary (Bindel) Goodman in rural Goff, KS. He attended various country schools and graduated from 8th grade, and later received his GED. He was drafted into the Army and served in Burma and China during World War II. Harry was united in marriage to Virginia Ann Lee on August 17, 1950, and worked for Mid America Dairy before retiring from there with 31 years of service.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Goodman on July 17, 2017; his parents; one daughter, Karen Ann Volker; two sisters, Verna Kossman and Wilma Albertson; two brothers, Walter Goodman and Albert Goodman.

He is survived by two children; a son, Daniel Lee (Rose) Goodman of Mayetta, KS; and daughter, Lisa Mae (Steve) Oom of Denison, KS; two brothers, Elvin Goodman and Robert Goodman; two sisters, Mildred Dade and Lucille Kissel; nine grandchildren, Danny and Corey Goodman, Jeff (Ashley) Goodman, Andy (Steph) Goodman, Susan (Keith) Liles, Cliff Oom, Matt (Brandi) Oom, Michelle (Doug) Nerud, Robin (Darrold) Walters, and Stephanie (Luke) Brown; and twelve great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be Monday, July 31, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the Albany Cemetery with military honors conducted by the V.F.W. Post #7285 of Sabetha. Visitation will be Sunday, July 30, 2017 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Memorial contributions may be made to the V.F.W. Post #7285, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534.

The Matriarch of the Parsons Families, Jean Parsons, entered eternal rest Tuesday, 25 July 2017 at the age of 90, surrounded by the love, admiration and prayers of her families. She passed in the early morning hours of natural causes at her residence at the Falls City Nursing and Rehabilitation, where she has lived for the past seven years.

Born Helen Jean Barrie, 27 June 1927 in Seward, Nebraska, to her parents, Alfred and Ethel (Benjamin) Barrie, Jean was the 7th of 8 children. Jean grew up playing, learning and living with her 4 older Brothers (Edward, Bernard, Phillip & David) and 2 older Sisters (Marian and Elaine) and younger Sister (Marguerite) in Seward and later, Lincoln, Nebraska, where the cornerstone of her life was family and faith. She received her education at the Elementary and High Schools in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Jean met William (Bill) Richard Parsons in 1942 and after their courtship, married 23 April 1943. The couple lived in Lincoln as newlyweds and had their first daughter, Madaline Ann. Soon after, Mrs. Parsons’ husband was drafted into the US Army and served as a Medic in the European Theatre during World War II, during which time Jean and their infant daughter, relocated to Colorado to live with her sister. Upon her husband’s safe return at the end of the war, the young couple, their young daughter and infant Son, William Richard, Jr. relocated to Lincoln, Nebraska to live nearer their families. Mr. Parsons began employment as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. Their Daughter, Mary Jean, Son, Lee Allen and Daughter, Janette Marie joined the family of four in their years of living in Lincoln, Nebraska surrounded by family, faith and community. Mr. & Mrs. Parsons and their five children relocated to Chillicothe, Missouri in 1956 where Mr. Parsons continued his employment with McPike Pharmaceuticals while Mrs. Parsons enjoyed her role as a Wife, Mother of 5 and homemaker with their lives centered around Saint Columban Catholic Church and Bishop Hogan School.

The Parsons Family expanded with the birth of their Daughter, Victoria Ann, Son, Michael Gibbs and Daughter, Monica Lynne. The Parsons Family of 10 was active in the community of Chillicothe, with faith, family and marriages of their older children along with the new blessings of Grandchildren. Mr. and Mrs. Parsons and their three youngest children, Vicky, Mike and Monica, relocated to Cameron, Missouri in 1972 where Mr. Parsons was employed as a Pharmacy Tech at Rexall Drug Company. Additionally, Mr. & Mrs. Parsons assisted with the devoted care of their beloved Granddaughter, Natalie Jill. The family was active in St. Munchin’s Catholic Church in Cameron and community activities. In 1977, Mr. and Mrs. Parsons purchased the Pony Express Package Store (Osborn, Missouri) owning and operating their own small business through 1980.

The love of Helen Jean’s life, William Richard Parsons, died suddenly 10 June 1981. Without her husband of 38 years by her side, Jean continued to live in Cameron, with their youngest daughter, Monica, until 1984 when they relocated to Falls City, Nebraska to live nearer to her oldest daughter, Madaline. At age 56, Jean obtained her first driver’s license so that she could drive herself to church and her new job as a Green Thumb Employee in 1984. She enjoyed working in the office of Eastview Senior Living, the Job Service Office and the Lydia Bruun Woods Library before joining the staff at North School, where she helped the children with reading assignments, assisted in the School Library and supervised the children in the lunch room and on the playground. During the summers, she continued to work at the City Library, alongside the librarians to catalog books, shelf books and lead Storytime for the children. That was, by far, her favorite part of her days at the Library!

Following her retirement, she lived in Fulton Villas and later Eastview Senior Living while enjoying time with her Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren, whom were the greatest joys of her life. She enjoyed spending time in her small garden, reading, and visiting with her neighbors and friends. She has been a member of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Falls City since 1984. Jean relocated to her new apartment at Care Age Estates/Falls City Nursing and Rehabilitation, April 2010 where she was active in crafts, bingo, party planning, volunteer activities and physical therapy until her aged years prevented her. Following her 90th birthday, 27 June 2017, she celebrated her life and love with 60+ family members 1 July 2017 in the dining room at Falls City Nursing and Rehabilitation. Her birthday party was her final stop on her life journey, as she departed this great world 24 days later on 25 July 2017.

Left to love and mourn her are her Children – Daughters – Madaline (Leon) Wilhelm, Mary (Mike) McKim, Jan Beezley, Vicky (Doug) Sackman, Monica Kuker; her Daughter-in-law, Norma (Bill) Parsons; Sons – Lee (Kellie) Parsons, Mike (Teresa) Parsons; Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren - Grandsons – Brett Keller, Bart (Gayle) Keller, Jeff (Megan) Sackman, Mathew (Tricia) McKim, Ryan (Libby) Parsons, Aron Parsons; Granddaughters - Lisa (Brad) Rea, Valarie Bartunek, Molly (Tyler) Garrison, Jill (Jeff) Jones, Carey (John) Rippe, Jessica Holdren, Julie (Henry) Chionuma, Katy (Paul) Samsel, Madison (Cody) Ball, Morgan Parsons, Sydney Seurer, Justine Seurer, Alexis Kuker; Great Grandsons - Caleb Rea, Nate Rea, Clay Keller, Will Bartunek, Smith Garrison, Blake Jones, Reid Jones, Whit Sackman, William Holdren, Mason Samsel, Cameron Samsel, Bryson Samsel, Drake Chionuma, Kade Seurer; Great Granddaughters - Sophie Keller, Haley Johnson, Charlie Garrison, Oliva Rippe, Nichole Holdren, Ellie Sackman, Addison Keller, Aliza Keller, Piper Chionuma, Sara Holdren, Charlotte McKim and the impending birth of Great Granddaughter, Emme Jean Seurer. Additionally, left to love and mourn her are her Step Grandchildren - Jenny (Eric) Self, Kim (Darrin) Schwang, Amy (Steven) Woods; Step Great Grandchildren – Drew Self, Aaron Self, Allie Self, Luke Schwang, Derek Schwang, Cole Schwang, Victor Chionuma, Addison Woods, Gage Woods; Sister - Marguerite Luers, many Nieces and Nephews, extended family, lifelong friends and neighbors.

Jean was pre-deceased by her husband, William Richard Parsons (1981) and most recently, her oldest Son, William Richard Parsons Jr. (2016), Granddaughter, Natalie Jill Cunningham (2006), Son-in-law, Ron Keller (2003), Son-in-law, Jim Cunningham (1972), Mother, Ethel Barrie (1970), Father, Alfred Barrie (1957) and her six siblings.

The Parsons Families extend their gratitude to the Nurses at Falls City Nursing and Rehabilitation that have provided a wonderful home to their Mother with care and kindness that goes above and beyond; a heartfelt thank you to the Doctors and Nurses at Community Hospital of Falls City and the “Ladies of In Home Healthcare Hospice.” A special thank you to Fathers at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church for their many blessings and prayers for Matriarch Jean and the families in recent weeks in Jean’s weakening hours. The guidance and support by Brian Daake (Dorr and Clark Funeral Home) in the families’ hours of need are greatly appreciated.

Service Details

A Parish Rosary will be recited at 10:00 am, 12 August 2017 at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1820 Fulton Street, Falls City, Nebraska.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am, with Father Thomas Dunavan as the presiding priest, also at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

Inurnment for Helen Jean Parsons will be with her Husband, William Richard Parsons at 3:00 that afternoon at St. Munchin's Catholic Church Cemetery, Cameron, Missouri.

Gladys (Taylor) Albers, 86, of Bendena, KS, crossed over to new life on July 23, 2017 at Catholic Care Center in Wichita, KS where she moved in 2012 to be near her daughter.

Gladys was born on February 22, 1931 on a farm near White Cloud, KS to Herman “Mike” and Helen (Thomas) Taylor. She was the second of four children, and their only daughter.

Gladys graduated from Highland (KS) College in 1950. She took her first elementary teaching job at Bendena, KS in August 1950, and met her future husband at a Fall Community Dance at the school. Gladys Taylor married Herbert Albers on June 10, 1951 in White Cloud, KS. They cherished over 53 years of marriage before he passed away on January 27, 2005. Also, she has been a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bendena since 1951.

Gladys did some substitute teaching while raising 3 children, and then in 1968 she enrolled full-time at Benedictine College in Atchison, KS to finish her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education in 1970. Mrs. Albers taught full-time at Midway Elementary for another 15 years, until retiring in 1985. Gladys also enjoyed growing flowers, vegetables, shrubs & trees, and painting artwork. However, her greatest passion was her love for teaching children or anyone who wanted to learn. Even as she became weaker in her final years, she still loved to teach everyone from young kids to senior citizens.

Gladys was preceded in death by her parents, husband Herbert Albers, infant great-granddaughter Susana Livingston, son-in-law Larry Chambers, brother Marvin “Buddy” Taylor, and brother Keith Taylor.

Gladys is survived by one daughter: Susan Chambers of Wichita, KS, and two sons: Colin (Teresa) Albers of Nebraska City, NE, and Glenn (Rose Mary) Albers of Kansas City, MO; Five grandchildren: Derick (Melissa) Albers, Megan (Andrew) Livingston, Dana (Daniel) Dacumos, Thomas Chambers, Kara Chambers; Thirteen great-grandchildren, brother Ron (Lee) Taylor, aunt Bernice Taylor, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. Monday, July 31, 2017 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Bendena, KS. Interment will follow at Moray Cemetery. Friends may call at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, KS after 9 A.M. Sunday, where the family will meet with friends from 7–8:30 that evening.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to St. John's Lutheran Church of Bendena, KS; or Moray Cemetery; or Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice of Wichita, KS.

Mildred Louise Winter, born on March 6, 1921, to Chester and Olive (Sawyer) Marshall, passed from this earth on Thursday, July 27, 2017, at Two Timbers in Highland, at the age of 96.

She graduated from King City, Missouri High School with the class of 1939. Mildred worked at the Quaker Oaks factory in St. Joseph, MO, for 7 years.

On February 5, 1949, Mildred married Raymen D. Winter in St. Joseph. They settled on the Winter family farm in rural Robinson, Kansas. To this union, came three boys—Michael Ray, Edward Dale, and Alan Wayne.

During Mildred’s life, she was very active in Gideon’s Auxiliary and Rainbo Community Clubs, and Zion UMW. She was active in Bellevue United Methodist Church of Leona, and since 1993, an active member of Zion Methodist Church, northeast of Robinson. Mildred’s favorite past-times were working in her flower garden, family gatherings, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Mildred was preceded in death by her husband Raymen in 2010; parents Chester and Olive Marshall; brothers Carl, Coen, Junior, Darrel, Dayle, and a sister Eileen Siela.

Mildred is survived by sons Mike Winter (Dee) of rural Robinson, Ed Winter of the home, Alan Winter (Gwen), also of rural Robinson; brother Loyd (Jean) Marshall; sisters: Twila Tabler, Betty Lyon; sister in law Renie Marshall; five grandchildren: Heather Pilcher (Brad), Holly Gantt (Ron), Deborah Taylor (Jason), Heidi Winter (Terry), David Winter (Andi); 11 great-grandchildren; with numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Mildred’s life is planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, July 29, at Zion United Methodist Church, northeast of Robinson, with Rev. Paul Waters, Rev. Charlie Neill, officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, north of Leona.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 12 noon until 7 Friday evening. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services at Church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Gideon’s International which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Marian L. “Skip” McCarthy, 90 years old, of Atchison, Kansas, died Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at Mosaic Life Care.

Mass of Christian burial will be Monday, July 31, 2017 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Benedict’s Church with Rev. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A parish rosary will be recited on Sunday, July 30th at 3:00 P.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation with the family will follow until 5:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict’s Abbey and St. Benedict Parish and may be left in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Born in Kansas City, MO on October 6, 1926, Skip was the only child of Mildred (Rau) and Francis Hays. She grew up in Kansas City attending St. James Elementary school and St. Agnes Academy. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry with high honors from St Mary’s College in Leavenworth, KS.

Skip worked for Standard Oil in Kansas City before marrying Dennis McCarthy of Springfield, IL on February 3, 1951. They moved to Atchison, KS in 1956 when Dennis was hired to establish the Art Department at (then) St. Benedict’s College. Skip worked at Fred Stein Laboratories and Lincoln Grain (Elders Grain) in Atchison for many years. She volunteered for several years at St Benedict’s parish and parochial school activities, and was a lifetime member of both the Atchison Library Association and the Atchison Hospital Auxiliary. Skip served as Secretary -Treasurer of the Atchison Board of Trade for fourteen years. She was a member of St. Benedicts Parish and an Oblate of St. Benedict’s Abbey.

Together with her husband Dennis, she helped to found the Atchison Art Association and establish the annual River Bend Art Fair. Dennis preceded Skip in death on May 31, 2006

Skip was a member of the Red Hat Society, loved playing bridge and was an avid reader. Her Christmas-themed needlework has been a perennial feature at the Atchison Oktoberfest.

Skip is survived by her five children: Dennis (Janet) McCarthy of Kansas City, MO; Nancy (Colin) Cohen of Southlake, TX; Dr. Aine (Peter Leahy) McCarthy of Colleyville, TX; Shannon McCarthy of Atchison; Kerry (Mark Sandman) McCarthy of Leavenworth, KS; three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. And her little dog Samantha who is now in foster care.

Leonard J. Ronnebaum, 85, of Seneca died July 25, 2017, at Crestview Manor Nursing and residential Living in Seneca.

Leonard was born on October 21, 1931 at the Sabetha Hospital in Sabetha to Joseph C. and Emma V. Rottinghaus Ronnebaum. Leonard grew up southwest of Seneca, He attended the Pickney Country school just east a ¼ mile from his house. Until the 6th grade then he went to Sts. Peter and Paul School and graduated from the 8th grade. After he graduated he went to work on the family farm until January 7, 1953 when he joined the United States Army. Leonard while in the pacific he was stationed on a couple islands of Japan, Hokkaido and Honshu during the Korea War. During his service to his country he was assigned to the C Btry 77th FA Bn, APO 201, he served 1year and 5 months overseas before being discharged at the rank of CPL (T) on December 8, 1954.

After he was released from the army he returned to the family farm where he remained until his death, he was a great farmer raising cattle and hogs and was a good crop farmer.

Leonard was a very hard-working individual and a very generous person giving to the step Foundation and to the church and other organizations. Leonard was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca, St. Joseph Society, Elks Club, Farm Bureau, Step Foundation, Seneca Memorial Post #7458 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Earl W. Taylor Post #21 and the Seneca Knights of Columbus council 1769.

Leonard enjoyed going to the casino, playing cards, gardening, fixing up old tractors to get them to run again after years of sitting in the hedge rows.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents Joseph C, on February 14, 1985, Emma V. on July 25, 1962, a brother Melvin A. on August 12, 1998 and a sister Eleanor Kohake on September 28, 2008.

Leonard is survived by a brother Linus Ronnebaum of Seneca, two sisters Dorothy Dwerlkotte of Wichita and Marie Dwerlkotte of Beattie, several nieces and nephews.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM Thursday, July 27, 2017 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM Friday, July 28th at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Burial will be in the church cemetery next to his parents.

Memorials can be given in Leonard’s memory to Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School and or Seneca Veterans Wall, and sent in care of the family.

Luella Marie Cummins, 95, of Falls City, NE, passed away July 25, 2017 at Falls City. She was born February 10, 1922 in rural Falls City, the daughter of Gus Fiene and Pearl (Duerfeldt) Fiene. She attended Williamsville country school and Barada High School through the 10th grade then graduated from Falls City High School.

In 1943 she graduated as a registered nurse from Missouri Methodist School of Nursing in St. Joseph, MO and worked there as Night Supervisor until she was married.

Luella was united in marriage to James Cummins on December 16, 1944. He died December 19, 1998. During Jim’s Navy career she traveled with him when possible. They lived in Iowa City, IA, San Francisco, Orange, TX, Pensacola, FL, Renton, WA, Mobile, AL and three times in Norfolk, VA.

In 1956 they returned to Nebraska and settled in Verdon to raise their family. She was active in the Verdon Christian Church as Sunday School superintendent, teacher and member of the Missionary and the Willing Workers Society.

She worked alongside her husband in the family owned feed store in Verdon. She was a past member of the Rebeccas, Eastern Star, Past Noble Grand, Kennsington Club and the CWL Club. They moved to Falls City in 1992.

Falls City Community Hospital employed her as a staff nurse and then as the Surgery Supervisor until she retired in 1984. She followed her mother’s footsteps in stamp collecting and has been an avid collector since 1940. She liked to stay busy with embroidery, ceramics, craft activities and spending time with friends. She had been a long distance member of the Happy Hearts and Homes Extension Club since 2014 and won blue ribbons for her embroidery items at the Kay County Fair in Oklahoma.

Jim and Luella loved to travel, see the country and meet people. They visited 45 of the 50 states, as well as Canada and Mexico. Upon Retirement in 1984, she and Jim became ‘snowbirds’ to enjoy spending the winters in Wellton, AZ and returning to Nebraska for the summers. After Jim’s death in 1998, Luella continued with this migration until the travel became too difficult in 2015. Family was very important to her, she loved visits and get-togethers with all of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Luella is survived by her children, Dennis and his wife Viola of San Diego, CA, Linda Blakley and her husband Reford of Blackwell, OK, Bill and his wife Valanda of Lowell, AR, Terry and his wife Dana of Verdon, son-in-law, James Cockerham of Verdon, eleven grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren and a sister, Caroline Palmer of Falls City. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a brother, Milton Fiene, children, Bob Cummins and Donna Cockerham.

Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 5, 2017 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Pastor David Lockard officiating. Her cremains will be taken to The Baker Tanks near Wellton, AZ to be spread with Jim’s cremains.

The family will receive friends on Friday, August 4, 2017 from 7-8:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Phyllis Mae Cobb 97, passed away on Monday morning July 24 in Holton, Kansas. She was born August 24, 1919, in Wheatland, Wyoming, the daughter of Claude and Irene Norris.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Lincoln Cobb, her sisters Margery, Ova, Leta, and by her brothers Leo and Larry.

She is survived by her son, Ronald Lee Cobb and wife Kathleen, of Holton, Kansas, her grandson David Albert Cobb and wife Marce, Rose Hill, Kansas, and great grandsons Lathe and Teagan Cobb also of Rose Hill, her granddaughter Elizabeth Irene Cobb of Holton, Kansas and great grandson Devin Haney of Kansas City, Missouri, step granddaughter, Bonnie Finger Barnett of Holton, Kansas, step granddaughter, Suzie Finger, step great granddaughter, Katie Chepalis, of North Bend, Washington, and step grandson Kenny Finger and wife Peggy, of Leesburg, Virginia, and step great grandsons Justin and Joshua Finger, also of Leesburg, Virginia. Phyllis is also survived by Rebecca Ditmore and Melody Sullivan, of Santa Barbara, California, whom she loved like daughters, and by close friends Mary Woelfel and Melba Wagner of Topeka.

Phyllis put Albert and Ronald through Westmont College, folding laundry at Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara, and later working as high school secretary at Los Prietos Juvenile Delinquent Boys Camp, Paradise Camp, California, where Albert worked as Senior Counselor for 28 years.

A Memorial Service will be held at Topeka Bible Church. Her final memorial service will be held in the Wheatland, Wyoming, First Christian Church after which her ashes will be interred next to her beloved husband, Albert, in the Wheatland Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to Campus Crusade for Christ for Dorothy Johnson, family friend and missionary, in Leon, France c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.

Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Brenda Irene Graner (Pearson), 76, of Holton, KS passed away Monday, July 24, 2017 at Vintage Park in Holton.

She was born April 24, 1941 in Brooklyn, NY, the daughter of George Pearson and Estella (Myers) Pearson. She grew up in Milford, P.A. and graduated from Delaware Valley Joint High School in 1959.

She married Gilbert “Gibby” Graner, Sr. on March 27, 1964 in Mine Hill, N.J. They resided in Rockaway, N.J. and were married for 31 years, until his death on February 17, 1996. She retired from the Stephen Gould Corporation in Whippany, N.J. in 2012 and moved to Kansas.

Brenda was predeceased by her parents and a sister, Gertrude “Snookie” Theresa (Pearson) Seese of South Hempstead, N.Y. in 1988.

She is survived by a daughter, Brenda Lee Pahmahmie (Alan “Boney”) of Mayetta, KS; a son, Gilbert “Gibby” Graner, Jr. (Kim) of Oak Ridge, N.J. and a sister, Annette Berg of Bronx, N.Y. Brenda is also survived by 5 grandchildren, Brandon Fink (Shalenia) of Port Jervis, N.Y., Vanessa Joslin (Ben) of Holton, KS, Brittney Stithem (Doug) of Hoyt, KS, Sierra Pahmahmie (Marcus Frye) and Sage Pahmahmie both of Mayetta, KS; 7 great-grandchildren and numerous other family member.

Brenda will lie in state Tuesday afternoon, July 25, 2017. The family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer 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.

She will continue her journey with visitations from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, July 28, 2017 at Whitham-Kanapaux Funeral Home, 20 Keller Ave., Rockaway, N.J.

Funeral Services will be 9:30 a.m. Saturday at Whitham-Kanapaux Funeral Home with interment to follow at the First Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Rockaway, N.J.
 
 

ELIZABETH ANN ‘CURLY’ HARMON, 54, of Hiawatha, died late Sunday evening, July 23, 2017, at Mosiac Life Care Center, in St. Joseph, MO.

Curly…is ALL she has ever been known by, was born at Temple Hospital, Los Angeles, California, June 5, 1963, the daughter of Marshall Theodore and Delia Teresa Davila Harmon and moved with her family to Tarkio, Missouri when she was 5.  She grew up at Tarkio, attended school there where she later graduated high school with the class of 1981.  Curly spent most of her life at Hiawatha where she worked as a cook and baker at Dave’s IGA and the family restaurant, Maple Leaf, prior to babysitting a number children for area families.

Curly was a Christian, was generous, with a ‘larger than life’ personality.  To say she enjoyed kids was an understatement!

Survivors include her life partner Larry Schofield of the home; her mother Delia Harmon McNulty, also of Hiawatha; a brother Phillip E. Harmon, II, of Topeka; a sister Mary Teresa Atlakson, also of Hiawatha; with numerous other relatives and a host of friends.

Curly was preceded in death by her father Marshall Harmon February of 1996; and step-father William McNulty September of 2013.

A Celebration of Curly’s life is planned for 11 a.m. Thursday, July 27, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha, with Pastor James Callaway officiating.  Cremation will follow service with inurnment service to be held at Claytonville Cemetery, south of Hiawatha, at 10 a.m. Saturday, August 5.

The family will meet with friends one hour prior to service Thursday.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434. www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com
 

Lonnie DeWitt Fletchall, age 75, of Sabetha passed away Saturday, July 22, 2017 at his home in Sabetha.

Lonnie was born October 17, 1941 in Sabetha the son of Alonzo and Kathryn (DeWitt) Fletchall. He graduated from Sabetha High School in 1960. He served in the U.S. Navy for four years during Vietnam and was stationed on the U.S.S. Finch. He married Rose Marie Johnstone on May 31, 1969 in Sabetha. Lonnie worked as a machinist several places in Sabetha and Lawrence. Lonnie was a longtime member of the Sabetha American Legion Post #126 where he served as past Commander. He also was a member of the Sabetha Lions Club. While in Topeka, he was a member of the Heartland Worship Center and in Sabetha at the Northridge Church. Lonnie enjoyed making furniture and restoring cars.

He is survived by his wife, Rose of over 48 years; a son, Michael Shane (Bobbi) Fletchall of Topeka; two daughters, Michelle Dawn (Guy) Claudy of Dupont, Washington and Barbara Collins of Sabetha; a brother, Donald “Sandy” Fletchall of Sabetha and five grandchildren.

Memorial services will be Thursday, July 27, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. also at the mortuary. Inurnment will be at the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post #126 and sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary. popkessmortuaries.com.

Gordon D. Sigrist, 82, of Wathena, Kansas died Saturday, July 22, 2017.

Gordon was born on April 5, 1935 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Emil and Juanita (Brasel) Sigrist. He was a lifelong resident of Wathena and worked as an over the road truck driver.

Gordon is a member of the First Baptist Church in Troy, the Teamsters Union and the U.S. Naval Reserves.

He married Verna Akins on January 15, 1966 in St. Joseph, Missouri. She survives of the home. Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Carol Bruns and son, Mitch Sigrist.

Additional survivors include his children,
Mike Sigrist, Robert Sigrist (Kimberly) and Angelia Sigrist all of St. Joseph, Missouri
Melody Peterson of San Marcos, California
Gaylon Merritt of Troy, Kansas
14 grandchildren 14 great-grandchildren

FUNERAL: Wednesday, July 26, 2017 – 10:30 A.M.
At: First Baptist Church in Troy.
Burial: Mount Olive Cemetery in Troy
Visitation: family will receive friends Tuesday evening 6-8 at the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas
Memorials: First Baptist Church, Troy Ambulance Fund or Wathena EMS

Anna Marie Kneen, 71, of Valley Falls, died Sunday, July 23, 2017 at her home with her daughters close by.

She was born September 11, 1945 in Leavenworth the daughter of Theodore Francis and Kathryn Josephine Brose Wistuba. She was a 1963 graduate of Winchester High School. She retired in 2007after 10 years as a merchandiser for Payless Shoe Source in Topeka. She had formerly worked as a machine operator for the Hallmark Company in Leavenworth and Lawrence for several years. Anna served as a longtime 4-H leader for the Valley Victors 4-H club and served as leader for the Jefferson County 4-H  Horticulture and Beef Projects for many years.

She was married to Thomas Lee “Tom” Kneen on November 6, 1971 at Easton, he preceded her in death on March 12, 2013.  

She is survived by two daughters, Toni (Randy) Reeves, Valley Falls, Kim Kneen, Valley Falls, one sister, Rose Mary (Glen) Herring, Meriden, two brothers, Francis “Ted” (Connie) Wistuba, Winchester, Larry (Louise) Wistuba, Winchester, and four grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by a son, James “Jim” Kneen on June 24, 1996.

Services at 10:00 AM, Wednesday at Barnett Family Funeral Home, Oskaloosa. Burial at Valley Falls Cemetery. Visitation 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Tuesday at Barnett Family Funeral Home. Memorials to Jefferson County 4-H foundation or to Jefferson County Friends of Hospice in care of Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602, Oskaloosa, KS,   66066.  www.barnettfamilyfh.com
Attachments area

Verna Jean “Wen-be-quah” Wahweotten, 56, of Mayetta, KS passed away Saturday, July 22, 2017 with her family. She was born December 14, 1960 in Holton, the daughter of Vernon and Rosemary (Masquat) Wahweotten.

Verna was a lifetime member of the Jackson County community; most of her life was on the Prairie Band Potawatomi Reservation. She was a homemaker and free spirit.

Verna was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. She was a member of the Drum Religion and sat on the Marshno Drum.

She married William Dwight Wilbur in Mayetta; they later divorced.

Survivors include her father, Vernon Wahweotten of Mayetta, KS; 3 daughters, Nis Wilbur of Topeka KS, Keeg Toledo (Ricardo) of Mayetta, KS and Meex Wilbur (Patrick) of Topeka, KS; 3 sisters, Barbara Evans of Mayetta, KS, Lisa Wahweotten of Topeka, KS and Denise Wahweotten of Kansas City, MO; a brother, Alan Wahweotten of Mayetta, KS and 6 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Rosemary (Masquat) Wahweotten, and her brother, Joe Wahweotten.

Drum Services will be Tuesday evening, July 25, 2017 at the Danceground Building. Burial will be Wednesday afternoon, July 26, 2017 at the Masquat Cemetery. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is in charge of arrangements. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.
 

Colby Dean Harris, 11, of Mayetta, died Friday, July 21, 2017 from an accidental death at his home.

He was born August 10, 2005 in Topeka, the son of Chris and Dana Baxter Harris. Colby would have started 6th grade at Royal Valley Middle School this year. He played baseball at Royal Valley and soccer with the Holton Parks and Recreation League. He loved hunting, fishing, swimming, hiking and the shooting sports.

Colby was preceded in death by his grandfather, Eldon Harris and his uncle, Michael Harris.

Survivors include his parents, Chris and Dana Harris, of the home, four brothers, Michael Harris (Betsy) and their children, Preston, Parker and Paxton, Denison, Dakota Harris (Katie) and their children, Colt, Case and Reagan, Mayetta, and Rey Harris and Gage Harris, both of the home; one sister, Izzy Harris, of the home; grandparents, Mary Harris, Holton, and Russell and Marquita Baxter and Gladys and Elmer Schlodder, all of Mayetta, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 26th at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Holton. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery at Holton.

Colby will lie in state Tuesday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Holton where a Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m., followed by visitation until 8:30 p.m.

Memorials are suggested to the Harris Children's Education Fund, and may be sent in care of the funeral home, P.O. Box 1034, Holton, 66436. On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Vergie Mae Harl, 89, of Overland Park, KS died on Friday, July 21st, 2017 at her son’s home in Overland Park.

Funeral services will be 2:00 pm on Monday, July 24, 2017 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home Burial will follow in the Sugar Creek Cemetery, Rushville, MO. The family will receive friends from 12:30 PM until time of service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Kansas City Hospice and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Vergie Thomas was born on Aug. 25, 1927 in Rogers, AR the daughter of Virgil and Alma (Burch) Thomas. She was married to William T. Harl on Sept. 8, 1945 in Atchison, KS. Mr. & Mrs. Harl owned and operated three motels in the Lake of Ozarks, the Deer Motel, the Lucky Motel and the Oak Hill Motel, for 15 years. They retired in 1982 and moved to Overland Park, KS in 1984.

Mr. Harl preceded her in death on Aug. 22, 2006. Survivors include two sons; William C. Harl, Overland Park, KS, and Daniel R. Harl, Gardner, KS, two sisters, Nancy Shelton and Sandra Knowles, both of Atchison, KS, three grandchildren, and four great grandchildren and a sister in law, Anna Allen, Atchison, KS. Her parents, husband William, two sons, David Harl (1986) and Stephen W. Harl, (May 2015) a brother, Lester “Bud” Thomas, and a sister, Mary Ann Liebsch preceded her in death.

Ernesta Mary Handke, 88, Atchison, Kansas died Thursday, July 20, 2017 at Atchison Senior Village Nursing Center.

Mass of Christian burial will be Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Louis Church at Good Intent with Rev. Benjamin Tremmel, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Louis Church Cemetery. A parish rosary will be recited on Monday, July 24th at 6:30 P.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation with the family until 8:00 P.M. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Louis Church or Atchison Hospice and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Mary was born June 2, 1929 in Effingham, Kansas the daughter of Ernest and Marguerite Burg Falk. She attended St. Ann’s Grade School in Effingham and graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1947.

She and Eugene J. “Gene” Handke were united in marriage on May 11, 1948 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Effingham, Kansas. Mr. Handke preceded her in death on January 14, 2014.

Mary worked at Dorothy’s Fabric Shop in Atchison and then as a receptionist at Snowden-Mize Drug Company. She then became a secretary in the industrial engineering department of Rockwell International Corporation for Mr. Fred Summers and later moved to the purchasing department at Rockwell until her retirement.

She was a member of St. Louis Catholic Church and the Altar Society of the church. Mary formerly served as a member of the board of directors at the Atchison YMCA.

Survivors include a son Stephen (Paula) Handke, Atchison, KS; two sisters, Margie (Don) Handke, Lancaster, KS; Irene Becker, Robinson, KS; a son-in-law, John Ferritor, Leavenworth, KS, five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Eugene, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Sharon Ferritor and a brother, Lawrence Falk.

Saundra "Sandy" Lea (Covault) Klepper, 74, of Osceola, Nebraska, passed away on Wednesday, July 19, 2017. 

She was born on May 23, 1943, in Burbank, California, to Delmar and Jeannette (Howarth) Covault.   Delmar served in the Army in Burbank, and in 1944 left for WWII.  After the war ended in 1946, the family moved to the Dairy farm north of Pawnee City.   She attended country school until 3rd grade, and then attended and graduated from Table Rock in 1961. 

After graduation, Sandy briefly attended Nursing School in Lincoln and moved back to Pawnee City to work for Dr. Stewart, Dr. Anderson, and Dr. Jackson for 10 years.  During this time, she married her husband, Richard, of 54 years in 1963 at Dubois Bible Church.  Richard worked for NPPD, and his job transferred them to Sterling, and then on to Osceola.

Sandy worked for the University of Nebraska-Extension office in Osceola for 17 years and helped with 4-H clubs, and county fair.  She was a member of Indian Hills Community Church in Lincoln, Nebraska.  She loved to read, sew, travel, and drag race.    

Sandy is survived by her husband Richard Klepper of Osceola, Nebraska; daughter Kelly Anderson of Osceola, Nebraska; son Rich and Cindy Klepper of Castle Rock, Colorado; daughter Lisa and Michael Cooper of Lincoln, Nebraska; 8 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and brother Rod and Deanna Covault of Lincoln, Nebraska and sister-in-law Pam Covault of Garnett, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents Delmar and Jeannette Covault, and brother Jon Marc Covault.  Sandy praises her wonderful Savior for a positive outlook in her life.  

Funeral services are 10:00 am, Monday July 24, 2017 at Faith Baptist Church, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Officiating Pastor Chris Rohrbaugh.  Visitation on Sunday, July 23, 2017 from 12:00 pm-8:00 pm with family greeting friends from 6:00-8:00 pm at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Interment at the Pawnee City Cemetery.  Memorials to family choice or Operation Smile, 3641 Faculty Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA  23453

Phil Perkins, 51, Valley Falls, died Monday, July 17, 2017, at a Topeka hospital.

He was born Oct. 30, 1965, at Oklahoma City, OK, the son of Phillip B. and Gaynell Wooley Perkins. He graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1983.
   

Phil had worked for Kansasland Tire and Service and Cross Midwest Tire, both in Topeka, D J’s Rock Creek Marina at Meriden, and Valley Health Care in Valley Falls. He had attended the Holton Nazarene Church.
Phil enjoyed cooking, camping and fishing, and his two special dogs, Mollie and Snuggles.

He married Davida Ross, Apr. 8, 1991, at Platte City, MO. They divorced. 

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Katie Perkins, Jan. 28, 2017, a grandson, Jace Andrew Beagle, and his parents, Phillip B. Perkins and Gaynell Hobbs.

Survivors include his life partner, Davida Perkins, Valley Falls; two sons, Phillip Perkins, Valley Falls, and William Michael Perkins, Topeka; two daughters, Carrie Perkins, and Courtney Perkins, both of Valley Falls; family friend, Casey Jones, Hoyt; a brother, Clyde Eudy, and his wife, Carol, Salem, OR; two sisters, Jamie Coppin, Oklahoma, City, OK, and Teresa Benoit, and her husband, Mike, Bethany, OK; and 10 grandchildren, Jake, Emmett, Bailey, Lily, Abel, Alayna, Andrew, Caleb, Alexis and Austin.

Family and friends will gather for a visitation from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, July 28, 2017, at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. There will be a private Memorial Service. Inurnment will be at the Valley Falls Cemetery. Online condolences are welcome at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Allen Dean Wichman, 66, of Topeka, KS formerly of Holton, passed away Friday, July 14, 2017 at Promise Hospital in Overland Park, KS; as a result of injuries sustained from a home invasion. He was born May 19, 1951 in Clay Center, KS, the son of Ernest F. and Patricia F. (Pickett) Wichman.

Allen graduated from Holton High School and Kaw Area Vocational Technical School in 1969. He was an automotive body repairman and mechanic for many garages, including Vic Simon’s in Holton and First Class Auto Glass in Topeka. He had owned and operated Champion Auto Glass in Topeka for a few years. He also worked as a roofer for many construction companies.

Survivors include a son, Vance Spiker (Caramie) of Lyndon, KS; 2 sisters, Carol Searles (Rob Rolin) of Denison, KS and Amy Spiker (Jared) of Holton, KS; 2 brothers, Verlin Wichman (Sue) of Holton, KS and Kevin Wichman (Sandy) of Circleville, KS; a sister-in-law, Cheryl Wichman of Holton, KS and 2 grandchildren, Kylie and Andrew.

He was preceded in death by an infant son, Gregory Allen Wichman, his father, Ernest F. Wichman in 1996, his mother, Patricia F. Wichman in 2017 and a brother, Dale Wichman in 2016.         

 Family will greet friends from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 23, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, with Blair Wagner to speak at the start of visitation. Cremation will follow visitation. Memorials may be given to the Allen Wichman Memorial Fund to be designated at a later date 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.

Easton Vonderschmidt, 16, of Rulo, NE, passed away July 17, 2017 at Rulo. He was born January 9, 2001 at Lincoln, NE to Chance and Jamie (Liberty) Vonderschmidt.

Easton was a Junior at Sacred Heart High School and was a member of the class of 2019. He was employed by Dorothy Towle at Towle Realty and Classic 8 Club at Falls City. While at Sacred Heart he was a member of the track, basketball and football teams, he made honor roll every year since 7th grade, he especially loved winning the 2016 State Football Championship. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, youth group, helping hands, publications, coached summer rec sports, bible school helper, volunteer for many SNC activities, backpack program and was elected Class Treasurer for his junior year. He was an avid Royals, Chiefs and Husker fan and enjoyed 4-wheeling. He took his big brother duties seriously and loved his siblings, taking part in their lives any time he could.

Easton is survived by his parents, Chance and Jamie of Rulo, sister, Erison and Ellery, brother, Elin all of Rulo, grandparents, Gary & Cathy Liberty of Falls City, Mark & Jean Hodge of Falls City, Kevin & Connie Vonderschmidt of Rulo, great-grandparents, Nellie Liberty of Platte City, MO, Helen Taft of Falls City, Carlota Hodge of Falls City, Ray & Bev Koopman of Falls City, Elden & Madalyne Vonderschmidt of Falls City, great-great-grandmother, Margaret Zentner of Falls City, girlfriend, Olivia Welch of Nebraska City, NE, godparents, Felicia Bachman and Todd Liberty, many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2017 at 10:00 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Thomas Dunavan as the presiding priest. Interment will be in Falls City Catholic Cemetery.

A Parish Rosary will be recited on Friday at 7:00 PM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, with family receiving friends following the rosary at O’Connor Hall.

In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials be made to family choice for later designation. 

There's still time to send flowers to the Funeral Mass at the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church at 10:00 AM on July 22, 2017.

Richard Shove, 93, of Holton, KS passed away Tuesday, July 18, 2017 at his home with his wife by his side. He was born January 13, 1924 in Havensville, KS the son of Paul and Mary (Gibson) Shove.

Richard graduated from Havensville High School in 1942 and attended a semester at Washburn University. Richard served for a few months in the United States Navy during World War II.  He later graduated with honors from College of Mortuary Science at St. Louis in 1946. After he was licensed as a funeral director and embalmer, he started his career at Tessendorf Funeral Home in Onaga, Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego and worked for over 60 years with Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Richard was a loving husband.

Richard was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Holton and Holton Chamber of Commerce. He was a life-long member of Holton Lion’s Club, Holton Masonic Lodge #42 AF & AM and Holton American Legion Post #44. Richard also was a former Holton Fire Marshall and served as President of Kansas State Board of Mortuary Arts in 1971.

He married Margie M. Lister on April 28, 1944 in Liberty, MO; she preceded him in death on December 24, 1989. He married Marlene J. Asher on June 15, 1990 in Holton, she survives of the home.

Other survivors include a step-son, Matt Asher of Holton, KS; a sister-in-law, Murrel Ryan of Lake Wabaunsee; 2 nieces, Natalie Poorman (Tom) and Kitsy Maynor (Pete) and 2 nephews, Craig Shove (Jeannie) and Mike Shove.

He was preceded in death by his son, Stephen Shove; brother, Winston Shove and twin brother, Robert Shove.

Funeral Services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 22, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Family will reet friends from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Holton Lion’s Club or Jackson County Friends of Hospice 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.
 

Gary Paul Anderson, 86, of Holton, KS passed away Sunday, July 16, 2017 at Holton Community Hospital. He was born October 24, 1930 in Corning, KS the son of Paul L. and Audrey (Hybskmann) Anderson.

Gary grew up as the eldest of two children and attended Holton High School and Kansas State University. Gary was a partner with his father and brother managing Anderson Construction Company, Inc., which did bridge and dam construction in 3 states for several decades. Gary’s hobbies included traveling, hunting and fishing.

He was a member of the Holton School Board in the early 1970’s and one of the early founders of the Holton High School Wrestling program. He was a 32 degree Mason of the Scottish Rite and a member of the Boater Unit in Topeka.

Gary married Carol Cole in 1953 and the couple had 3 children, Michael, Erik and Korby.

Survivors include his brother, Ronald Anderson of Holton, KS; two sons, Michael Brett Anderson (Sandy) of Phoenix, AZ and Erik Anderson (Sharon) of Atchison, KS and three grandchildren, Korby, Dane and Lindsay.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol and his son, Korby.

Memorial services will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, August 4, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Private family inurnment will be at a later date. Memorials may be given to the Holton High School Wrestling Program 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.
 

Francis “Junior” Drimmel, 87, of Atchison, Kansas died Monday, July 17, 2017, at his residence with his family at his side.

A private family memorial service will be held Thursday, July 20, 2017, at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Croix Hospice and may be left in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Junior was born September 27, 1929, in Atchison, Kansas, the son of Frank and Hanna (Watowa) Drimmel. He attended White Clay School.

He and Joan Betts were united in marriage on July 26, 1950, in Van Burren, Arkansas.

Junior and Joan opened Drimmel Service station in 1965 and served the Good Intent and surrounding community for several years. Junior operated a trucking business from the early 1950’s until 2005. In his spare time he especially enjoyed mowing his yard and visiting with family and friends.

He was a member of the St. Louis Catholic Church in the Good Intent community of Atchison.

Survivors include his wife, Joan, of the couple’s home; a son Daryl (Marta) Drimmel, Atchison, Kansas, two grandchildren, Darin (Christina) Drimmel, Atchison, KS; Bridgette Drimmel, Goddard, KS; and two great grandchildren, Aidden and Leland Drimmel.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother Clarence Drimmel.

Dale A. Dettman, age 88 of Auburn, passed away Saturday, July 15, 2017 at the Good Samaritan Society-Auburn.

Survivors include his wife Naomi “Jinx” of Auburn; sons and daughter-in-law Jeff and Laura of Monroe, NC and Greg of Shubert; grandchildren Nicholas of Monroe, NC and Kelsey of Hickory, NC; sisters and brothers-in-law Doris Jean and Wayne Shafer of Stella; Norma Schutte of Lincoln; Mildred Buethe of Plattsmouth; Marlys and Scott DeVries of Lake City, IA; brothers and sister-in-law Wayne Dettman of Bern, KS; Weldon and Sharon Dettman of Humboldt; other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be Wednesday, July 19, 10:30 a.m. at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn.  Visitation will be at the funeral home Tuesday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 6:00 to 8:00.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Auburn Fire & Rescue or family choice.
 
Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.
 

Donna M. Cockerham, 65, of Verdon, NE, passed away July 16, 2017 at Falls City, NE. She was born November 17, 1951 at Norfolk, VA to James and Luella (Fiene) Cummins.

On October 7, 1970 she married James A. cockerham at Verdon, NE. They established their home in Verdon where they could raise their own family in a small town.

As a young child of a Navy serviceman, Donna lived in various states until the family settled in Verdon in 1957. She enjoyed growing up in the small town environment and graduated Dawson-Verdon High School in 1969. Then attended Methodist Medical Center School of Nursing at St. Joseph, MO and graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1973.

She was employed at what is now the Community Medical Center since 1972 and she enjoyed participating in the challenge of the ever changing practice of nursing. She attended Grace Bible Fellowship Church at Stella, NE.

Donna is survived by her husband, Jim of Verdon, daughters, Kristi Schafersman and her husband Sheldon of Hooper, NE, Jamie Koch and her husband Bill of Dawson, NE, mother, Luella Cummins of Falls City, brothers, Dennis Cummins and his wife Viola of San Diego, CA, Bill Cummins and his wife Valanda of Lowell, AR, Terry Cummins and his wife Dana of Verdon, sister, Linda Blakley and her husband Reford of Blackwell, OK, grandchildren, Gretchen Barber, Ava & McKenna Schafersman, Levi and Jonathan Koch. She was preceded in death by her father and a brother, Bob Cummins.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 21, 2017 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Pastor David Lockard officiating. Inurnment will be in Verdon Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Thursday from 6-8:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

John Kentopp, 59, of Falls City, NE, passed away July 13, 2017 at Falls City. He was born August 25, 1957 at Falls City to Norbert and Dorothy (Lange) Kentopp.

John was raised in rural Falls City and graduated Falls City High School in 1977. Following the death of his father he farmed the family farm and then moved to Denver and worked as a metal fabricator. He lived in several places before moving back to Falls City in the late 1990 and continued to live in Falls City off and on since. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (20th and Towle).

John is survived by his mother, Dorothy Kentopp of Falls City, sisters, Nancy Kentopp of Falls City and Lois Kentopp of Beatrice, NE. He was preceded in death by his father, sisters, Pattie Jo and Diane Kentopp.

A graveside memorial service will be held on Monday, July 24, 2017 at 3:00 PM at Steele Cemetery with Father Larry Parrish officiating.

The family will receive friends on Monday, July 24, 2017 from 1:30 to 2:30 PM at St. Thomas Episcopal Church at Falls City.

Virginia Ann (Lee) Goodman, 86, passed away on Monday, July 17, 2017.

Virginia was born on August 3, 1930 in Nim City, NE to William Douglas and Mildred Mae (Grimm) Lee. She was a graduate of Sabetha High School, Class of 1949. Virginia was married to Harry Goodman on August 17, 1950.

She is preceded in death by her parents, William Lee and Mildred (Grimm) Lee; a daughter, Karen Ann Volker; a brother, William Douglas Lee, Jr.; and a sister, Naydean Gilbert.

She is survived by her husband, Harry Goodman;  two children; a son, Daniel Lee (Rose) Goodman of Mayetta, KS; and daughter, Lisa Mae (Steve) Oom of Denison, KS; and grandchildren, Danny, Jeff and Andy Goodman, Susan (Dan) Liles, Michelle Nerud, Robin Walters, Stephanie (Karen) Brown, Cliff and Matt (Lisa) Oom; and twelve great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be Friday, July 21, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the Albany Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, July 20, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Memorial contributions may be made to the Holton Hospital Hospice & Home Health, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com
 

Rita Marie Reiff, 65, of Atchison KS died Sunday, July 16th, at her daughter’s home in Effingham, KS.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM on Friday, July 21st, 2017 at the Becker Dyer Stanton Funeral Home with Fr. Jon Hullinger, Rector at Trinity Episcopal Church officiating. Burial will follow in the Sunset Memory Gardens, Atchison, KS. The family will receive friends from 6:30 to 8:00 pm on Thursday, July 20th, at the Becker Dyer Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Helping Hand for the Holidays and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Rita M. Betts was born on May 8, 1952 in Atchison, KS the daughter of Charles and Helen (Pickerel) Betts. She worked as a certified nurse’s and medicine assistant at Atchison Senior Village for many years. Rita enjoyed growing flowers, reading, collecting Precious Memories figurines and dolls, and especially spending time with her grandchildren.

She was married to Jacob Reiff on Aug. 1, 1980. Mr. Reiff survives of the home. Additional survivors include three sons, Charles (Crystal) Reiff, Atchison, KS, Preston Reiff, of the home, and Troy (Vickie) Reiff, Atchison, KS, a daughter, Jenny Goodman (Casey Chappell) Effingham, KS, two step daughters, Rhonda Wheeler and Anita Reiff, both of Topeka, KS, three sisters, Peggy Emery, and Sally Brady, both of Atchison, KS and Judy Hayes, Topeka, KS, fifteen grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. Her parents, a son, Ronnie Reiff and six brothers, Walter, Gene, Bill, Robert, Jim, and Mike Betts and two sisters, Juanita Betts, and Lisa Piper preceded her in death.

Doris Maxine Kitrell, 94, of Holton, KS passed away Monday, July 17, 2017 at Medicalodge Jackson County. She was born March 25, 1923 in Mayetta, KS the daughter of Cecil and Effie (Johnson) Bowser.

Doris graduated from Holton High School in 1941. She was a life-long member of the Jackson County community. Doris was a homemaker and housewife. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Holton.

She married Everett Kitrell on February 23, 1942 in Holton. He preceded her in death on August 7, 2011. She was also preceded in death by 2 sisters, Maurine Calderwood and Alberta Townsend and 2 brothers, Lyman and John Bowser.

Survivors include a son, Jerry Kitrell (Carol) of Mayetta, KS; a daughter, Diana Ray (Jerry) of Holton, KS; a brother, Cecil Lee Bowser (Betty) of Mayetta, KS; 5 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren and 14 great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 21, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday evening. Memorials may be given to the First Baptist 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.
 

Daniel Eugene Fox, 51, Valley Falls, died Sunday, July 16, 2017, at a Topeka hospital.

He was born Nov. 17, 1965, at Wayne, NE, the son of Vernie E. and Evalena A. Staggs Fox. He graduated from Clarion, IA High School in 1984. Before his senior year in high school he completed basic training with the Iowa National Guard. He became certified as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic and was stationed at Ft. Jackson, SC, and at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland.

Dan had been a mechanic and an over the road truck driver. He enjoyed raising Longhorn cattle and Basset hounds, was a NASCAR fan, loved Peterbilt trucks, and just happened to like Hippos. He had attended Rock Creek Bible Church, north of Meriden.

Dan married Paula Johnson and they had two daughters, Ashley and Cassandra. They were divorced. He married Gin Wilkins. They were divorced. He had been a domestic partner with Jana Winter.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Lynn Fox, May 30, 2004.

Survivors include two daughters, Ashley Johnson, and her husband, Rickey, Martinez, CA, and Cassandra Fox, and her children, Macie and Winston Fox, Carroll, IA; his parents, Vernie and Evalena Fox, Valley Falls; and his brother, Vernie D. Fox, and his wife, Kristin, Meriden.

A funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 21, 2017, at the Fellowship Hall of the Rock Creek Bible Church. Cremation will follow the service. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rock Creek Bible Church and sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, PO Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. Online condolences are welcome at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Connie (Breeden) Hopkins, 63, of Sabetha, KS passed away Saturday, July 15, 2017 at the Apostolic Christian Home.

Connie was born April 23, 1954 to Kenneth and Ramona (Brinkworth) Breeden. The family moved to Valley, NE in 1960. Connie graduated from Valley High School in 1972. She continued her education and was also a cheerleader at the University of Nebraska in Omaha, NE. On November 20, 1976 she married Mark Hopkins. They were later divorced. Connie was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1980 and later entered the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha on December 10, 1999. She was baptized at the First Methodist Church in Sabetha, KS. Connie had been attending the NorthRidge Church in Sabetha at the time of her death.

Her family was very attentive, and important, and visited her often. She was also close to her teenage caregivers and friends who gave her many laughs, and special attention. Connie’s friends from Nebraska were special and visited her often.

She is preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Breeden; and her grandparents, Garth and Helen Brinkworth, and Harry and Mary Breeden.

Left to remember her spirit, courage and humor is her mother, Ramona Breeden; her aunts, Leona Lukert, Dorothy McDonald; and cousins and friends.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at NorthRidge Church in Sabetha. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 18, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at NorthRidge Church. Interment will be made at the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the NorthRidge Church, Sabetha Community Hospital, or Valley Fire Department of Valley, NE, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Seth Lee Brown, 25, passed away on Friday, July 14, 2017 at his apartment in Sabetha, KS.

He was born in Phillipsburg, KS on April 8, 1992 to Eva (Brown) Ebner and Gary Lee Brown. He started school in Norton, KS, and finished his schooling between Sabetha and Wetmore. Seth was a member of the Lutheran Church in Fairview, KS. He enjoyed fishing, going to car races, and hunting.

He is survived by his mother, Eva Ebner of Netawaka, KS; his father, Edward Ebner; and a sister, Nicole Brown of Charlotte, NC.

Funeral service will be Friday, July 21, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. prior to service. Inurnment will be made at the Saint Peter Lutheran Cemetery in Logan, KS at a later date and time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetic Camp or to help family with funeral expenses.  They can be sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Carolyn A. Johnson, 74, of Falls City, NE, passed away July 14, 2017 at Falls City. She was born December 28, 1942 at Humboldt, NE to Joseph and Ellen (Beer) Johnson.

Carolyn attended school at Honey Creek and graduated Salem High School in 1960. She worked at a sewing factory, Nixon’s Café, Cross Town Café, Red Barn, Subby’s South Side and drove a cab for him and then worked at Pizza Hut until 1992 when her health failed. She enjoyed jig saw puzzles while a resident of East View.

Carolyn is survived by her daughter, Minnie Johnson of Falls City and family friend, Jacqueline Spinner of Falls City. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Frederick Joseph Johnson

A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 24, 2017 at 10:00 AM at Maple Cemetery, Salem, NE with Josh Maxwell officiating.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 23, 2017 from 4-5:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Victor Leonard “Beak” Fee, 58, went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 13, 2017 after a long and courageous battle with leukemia, surrounded by his loving family at home.

He was born on October 24, 1958 to Dwight and Shirley Fee in Falls City, Nebraska.  He was the oldest of four boys.  He attended elementary school in White Cloud and then at Highland. He graduated from Highland High School in 1976.  After high school he worked for Harness Fur Company and then for White Cloud Grain for many years. He graduated from the police academy and then worked for the Iowa Tribe Police Department. He worked for several years for Casino White Cloud as head of security.

Victor was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping, and running coyote dogs and fox hounds. He was a member of the Northeast Kansas and Southeast Nebraska Fox Hunter Association.  He was a member of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska. Victor was preceded in death by his parents and infant son, Jordan Fee.  

He is survived by his daughters: Stacey(Brian) Dumbauld, Escondido, CA; Stephanie(Jason) Davis, White Cloud; Christina Norton, Falls City, and one son Trevor Fee, Falls City; three brothers: Randy(Debbie) Fee, Hiawatha; William Fee, White Cloud; Wesley Fee, Rulo; four grandchildren: Kailey and Christian Davis; Tyler and Sydney Dumbauld.  

A Celebration of Victor’s life will be held at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha at 10:30am on Tuesday July 18th. Pastor Tom Stone, of the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ of Horton, will officiate. Interment will follow at the Partlow Cemetery on the Iowa Reservation, near White Cloud. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6pm-8pm on Monday July 17th.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Victor Fee Memorial Fund which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St, Hiawatha 66434. www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Vanes Moerer, 82, of Humboldt, Nebraska passed away on Friday, July 14, 2017, at Bryan LGH Medical Center East in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, July 17, 2017, at the Faith Lutheran Church in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Tim Llewellyn officiating.

Visitation will be held from noon-8 p.m. on Sunday, July 16, 2017, at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska.  Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary.   

Interment will be at the Humboldt Cemetery.

Memorials contributions may be given to the Faith Lutheran Church or to family’s choice.

Online condolences can be sent to www.wherrymortuary.com

Wherry Mortuary-Humboldt, Nebraska (402) 862-2915

Betty Joan (Hager) Blide, 74, of Atchison, KS, passed away Thursday, July 13, 2017 at the Atchison (KS) Medicalodge with both of her children by her side.

Funeral Services will be 2:00 pm, Monday, July 17, 2017 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, with Rev. Robert Ziegler, officiating. Burial will follow in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Atchison. Visitation with the family will be Sunday from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions in honor of Betty are suggested to Dogs by Debin, a non-profit animal rescue shelter founded by her daughter-in-law. Words of sympathy and comfort for the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Betty was born on March 16, 1943 in Atchison, the daughter of Jack and Marjorie (Rosenauer) Hager. Betty attended Atchison Catholic Schools Betty was primarily a housewife and homemaker throughout her life. She enjoyed crocheting, playing Bingo and board games, was an avid reader, and liked fishing and watching horror movies. Betty was raised in the Catholic faith but attended the Carol Baptist Church later in life. Betty especially loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Betty was married to Richard Norris; they later divorced. She then married Bill Blide who preceded her in death. Betty was also preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Dee Ann Ferris.

Survivors include a son, Rick (Debin) Norris of Kansas City, MO; daughter, Brenda Norris of Atchison; three sisters, Barbara Hager, Nancy Gormly, and Connie Jones, all of Atchison; one granddaughter, Jessica Henry, Atchison and one great grandson, Jaxston.

Vernon A. “Vern” Jarboe, 86, of Topeka, passed away Wednesday, July 12, 2017 at a local hospital.

He was born December 17, 1930 in Iuka, KS, the son of James R. and Charity M. (Geer) Jarboe. He was a graduate of Sawyer High School and attended Pratt Junior College and Washburn University.

Mr. Jarboe served as President of Whelan’s Lumber and later for Ray Anderson Company, retiring in 1996.

He served on the boards of directors for Jayhawk Area Council of Boy Scouts of America, Topeka Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Greater Topeka, American Red Cross, Capper Foundation, Y.M.C.A. of Topeka, Junior Achievement, and Topeka Downtown Rotary.

Vernon married Laurine Hittle on June 4, 1950 in Jetmore, KS. She survives. Other survivors include children, Vernon L. (Deborah) Jarboe, Elaine (Larry) Gill, all of Topeka, Carl (Mariann) Jarboe, Medicine Lodge; grandchildren, Nicole (Brian) Paxson, Kimberley (Jeff) Fund, Sonia (Joe) Schultz, Jessica (Eric) Johnson, Tyler (Jennifer Kongs) Gill, Calla (Justin) Edwards; great-grandchildren, Cassie, Nate, Gabe, Sophia, and Victoria. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Alice Carter; and brothers, Albert, James and Don.

Vernon enjoyed spending time with family, especially grandchildren, woodworking, hunting, snow skiing and spending time outdoors.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 15, 2017 at Countryside United Methodist Church, 3221 SW Burlingame Rd, Topeka, KS 66611. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 14, 2017 at Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd., Topeka.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Jayhawk Area Council of Boy Scouts or Countryside United Methodist Church.

Janet Lucille (Herpich) Scheibe, 79, Overland Park, KS, passed away peacefully in the company of her loved ones and went to be with her Lord June 24, 2017.

Janet was born February 12th, 1938 in Denton, to Clarence and Rosalee Herpich.  

She was preceeded in death by her father and brother, John Herpich.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Scheibe; son, Doug Scheibe, his wife Jane and their children, Eliza and Jack; daughter, Kristin Liechty, her husband Johnny and their children, J.D. and Josh. She is also survived by her mother, Rosalee Herpich (who turns 100 on August 14th); her brother, Dick Herpich, his wife Ruth and their children, Paul (Lori), David and Stephanie; her sister-in-law, Lois Herpich, and her children, Pam (Lee), Jon (Tammy), Laura (Mark), Jackie (Mark), Jenny (Brad), and many great nieces and great nephews.

A memorial service to celebrate Janet's life will be held July 22, at 2 p.m. at Community Covenant Church, 15700 W. 87th Street Pkwy, Lenexa, KS 66219.

If you attend, please feel free to wear something in her favorite color - purple. If you choose to send flowers, the church will be open until 5 p.m. on the Friday before the service. In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored if you made a donation in her name to the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) and/or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (www.pancan.org).

Irene May (Panko) Wright, 96 of Table Rock, Nebraska passed away on Monday, July 10, 2016 at her home.  She was born on June 22, 1921 to Albert and Mary (Skrabol) Panko in Crab Orchard, Nebraska.

Irene’s dad passed away when Irene, was 2 years old.  She was the youngest of 4 children.  Her mother worked hard to keep a roof over their heads.  Irene was sent to town to board in a lady’s home , helping with housework so she could go to school.  She was a big part of her husband’s Skelly service station, working alongside keeping books for him.  She always had a garden and would feed her family from the bounty raised. Irene gardened and canned well into her 90’s.

Irene married Dale Wright on December 31, 1940 in Crab Orchard, Nebraska, to this union four sons were born. Dale died in November of 2004.

Irene was a homemaker, worked for United States Post Office and the Table Rock Library. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Table Rock, Nebraska.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Mary Panko, husband Dale, her brothers and sisters.

Irene is survived by her sons, Don (Pat) Wright of Lincoln, NE, Bob (Linda) Wright of Bettendorf, IA, John (Kathy) Wright of Columbus, NE, Jim (Pat) Wright of Pulaski, WI, 11 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Verna Kizzy, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorial Service 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 17, 2017 at United Methodist Church in Table Rock, Nebraska. Officiating Pastor Dorothy Smith.  Register book signing on Sunday, July 16, 2017 from noon-5:00 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Visitation on Monday one hour before service at United Methodist Church, Table Rock. Inurnment at the Table Rock Cemetery, Table Rock, Nebraska.  Memorials to the United Methodist Church, Table Rock, Nebraska.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Larry Edward Haug, 77, of Seneca, KS passed away in his home on Wednesday, July 12, 2017.  In his last week on earth, he was surrounded by his loving wife (his caregiver), all of his children, and his grandchildren and showered with love, prayer, and singing until the hour of his death.

Larry was born on September 8, 1939 to Omer and Lucille (Noll) Haug.  He attended Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School and graduated in 1957.  He then joined the United States Air Force and served for four years, two of those years in Japan.  After his service he returned to Seneca and joined his father and brothers at H & H Motor Company.  Several years later, Larry along with his brother, Mike Haug, started their own business of Haug Automotive in Seneca. Later, they bought Ray's Auto Supply store, owned by Omer E. Haug & Sons.

Larry married Mary Ellen Holthaus on October 23, 1965.  They have four children, Deann Compo (Steve) Sabetha, KS, Steve Haug (Shelley) Waynesboro, VA, Becky Jones (Chris) Appleton, WI, and Monica Olberding (Dale) Seneca.  He was blessed with 18 grandchildren whom he adored.  Kyle (Sarah), Katie, Justin, Abbie, and Josh Compo, Gabriella, Juliana, Christina, Kolbe, Francesca, and Jonas Haug, Cierra, Alexis, McKenna and Taylee Jones, Amelia, Evan and Noah Olberding.

Larry fostered many passions: airplanes, cars, and reading to name a few, but above all was his love for music.  He played guitar and sang in a country band for 25 years, and he served in the church folk group for 10 years.  Larry volunteered 25 years of loyal service to the Seneca Fire Department, eight of those years as fire chief.  Further, he spent countless nights helping to restore the 1922 Stutz.  He also served as a board member of Saints Peter and Paul School and the Seneca Library. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Omer and Lucille Haug; his brothers, Cotton Haug and George Haug; and his sisters, Bobbie Osterhaus, Sister Connie Haug, and Gerriann Henry. 

Survivors include his wife, children, grandchildren, brother, Mike (Betty) Haug, and sisters, Sister Dominic Haug, Dora (Bill) Cross, Jeanne (Tom) Heiman, Sue Haug, Mary Haug, Regina (Ed) Aldrine, and Cathie Wynkoop.

Mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday, July 15, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church. Visitation will be Friday, July 14, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church. A rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will be made at the Saints Peter & Paul Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School and/or to Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church or to the Seneca Fire Department, sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle, Seneca, KS 66538. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Omer Malpert Leech, son of William and Trena (Malpert) Leech was born in Humboldt, Nebraska on October 25, 1925. He was baptized in the Pleasant View Church of rural Humboldt where he attended until the church closing. He then transferred his membership to the Humboldt United Methodist Church where he was a member for the rest of his life on earth.

Omer attended Maple Grove rural school from first grade through fourth grade. He attended Bratton Union Consolidated School from grade five through twelve, graduating in 1942.

After graduation, he farmed with his father and his brother Myron until he was inducted in the Army at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas on February 4, 1945. His military training took him to Fort Hood, Texas and then to William Beaumont Army Hospital at El Paso, Texas. It was there that he was trained as a medical technician. After additional training at Fort Lawton, Washington, he was sent to Oahu, Hawaii where he worked in a medical hospital. Omer was awarded several medals during his time of service to his country. He was honorably discharged in September of 1946.

On returning to Nebraska he again farmed with his father and brother as Will Leech and Sons. After the death of his father, he and his brother continued to farm as Leech Brothers.

On June 2, 1948, Omer was united in marriage to Harriett J. Smith, daughter of Harry and Edith Smith of Humboldt. Rev. Long of the Humboldt Christian Church performed the ceremony. The couple established their home north of Humboldt where they farmed and raised livestock. To this union two children were born, Debra and Leslie.

Omer and Harriett moved into Humboldt in 1998 at the time of their fiftieth wedding anniversary. Fifteen years later their family joined them to celebrate their sixty-fifth anniversary. Just nine days before his passing, on June 2, 2017 Omer and Harriett celebrated sixty-nine years of marriage.

During their marriage, Omer and Harriett accomplished a personal goal of visiting all fifty states. For many years, the couple wintered in Arizona. They also traveled to fourteen European countries plus Australia, New Zealand, the Fiji Islands, Mexico and Canada. They enjoyed having their children and grandsons accompany them to Aruba and to Hawaii more than once.

After Omer retired, he and Harriett took golf lessons. They golfed in Kansas before the Kirkman’s Golf Course was completed. Omer was thrilled when on July 12, 1997 he hit a hole-in-one.

Omer passed away at the Colonial Acres Extended Care Facility in Humboldt, Nebraska on June 21, 2017 at the age of ninety-one years, eight months and eleven days.

Omer was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Erma Leech Reid, a brother-in-law, Charles Reid of Auburn, Nebraska, a sister-in-law Imogene O. Leech of Humboldt and one niece, Elaine Comer.

He is survived by his loving wife, Harriett; daughter Debra Leech Coombs of Denver, Colorado; son Leslie and daughter-in-law Christine Leech of Omaha, Nebraska; grandsons Adam and is wife Cori Leech of Boston Massachusetts, Aaron Leech of Louisville, Kentucky, Nathan and his wife Claire of Peoria, Illinois; brother Myron and sister-in-law JoAnn Leech of Humboldt, brother-in-law Chuck and his wife Marian Smith of Lincoln; Nephews, Terry and wife Jerri Leech of Nebraska City, Van and wife Kay Leech of Humboldt, John and wife Molly Smith of Seattle, Washington, and Todd Smith of Des Moines, Iowa and by his nieces, Pam and husband Claren Keithly of Brandon, South Dakota and Rhea and husband Dan McGinn of Omaha. He is also survived by a host of other relatives and friends.

Memorial service will be held in the United Methodist Church of Humboldt, Nebraska on Tuesday, July 18, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. Wherry Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Pastors Dorothy Smith and Howard Blecha are officiating. Memorials may be given to the United Methodist Church of Humboldt or the Pleasant View Cemetery.

In order to help further medical science, Omer donated his body to the anatomical board of Nebraska in Omaha. Inurnment with full military rites by Harvey-Mann Post 269 American Legion and Nebraska Color Guard and will be at a later date.

Allen Donigan, 86, of Rulo, NE, passed away July 8, 2017 at Kimberling City, MO. He was born September 26, 1929 at Plainview, NE to William and Jeanette (Holmes) Donigan.

Allen enlisted in the U. S. Army on November 15, 1946 at Scott Field, IL. He served in War World II and earned a Victory Medal and an Army of Occupation Medal. He went on to serve in Korea and earned an Army of Occupation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, United Nation Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star and a Presidential Unit Citation. He then served in Vietnam and earned a Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Bronze Clasp with 3 Loops, Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar, Expert Badge with Sub Machine Gun Bar, Sharpshooter Badge with Tank Weapons Bar. Following an injury he retired and was honorably discharged at Fitzsimons General Hospital at Denver, CO on February 9, 1967.

He married Colleen Lunsford on June 7, 1967 at Nebraska City, NE. They were later divorced.

Allen was raised in Lebanon, MO. Following his military retirement he lived in Denver and flipped houses. He then moved back to Nebraska and worked in residential construction. He retired and lived in Rulo until 2016 when he moved to Kimberling City to be near his niece. He was a member of the Denver Elks Lodge, DAV, Vietnam Veterans of America, VFW and the American Legion.

Allen is survived by his brother, Lee of Lompoc, CA, sister, Ruth Meisenheimer of St. Louis, MO and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers and three sisters.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 14, 2017 at 10:00 AM at Rulo Cemetery. Military graveside honors by Falls City Ceremonial Honor Guard.
 

Duane M. Todd, 95, of Seneca, died on Monday, July 10, 2017, at Life Care Center of Seneca.

Duane M. Todd was born on a farm near Clay Center, Kansas on July 8, 1922 to Warren and Edith Mina Todd. Duane often commented that he started working a team of horses in the field when he was 8 years old.  Duane attended country schools, and in the days before school buses, drove himself to Clay Center High, graduating in 1940.  

Upon graduation, and having acquired his country school teaching certificate, Duane taught school for two years to save money for college. World War II changed his plans.  Todd joined the Navy in 1942, and became a pilot, specializing in multi engine craft such as the Consolidated PBY Catalina, and the Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer.   While stationed at the Naval Air base in Hutchison, Kansas he met Polly Zenor, a recent graduate of Wichita State in speech therapy, at a church gathering. They were married December 27, 1945 at Hutchison, Kansas.  As Duane pursued his education, Polly continued to work in her chosen field in both Hutchison and Lawrence, Kansas. Using the GI bill, Duane graduated from Kansas University with a degree in business administration.   

Duane went to work for Deere & Co in January 1949, as a sales rep, out of the Kansas City, Branch. While making a stop at the John Deere dealership in Seneca, Kansas he learned that the owner was looking for an energetic young partner. He and his young wife decided to move to Seneca, and by 1952, Todd Tractor Co was born. In 1979, a farm division was established. Their family dealership is now 65 years old, with two more generations of Todds.

Duane devoted himself to his family, his business, and his community, serving multiple terms on the Nemaha Valley School Board, the Seneca town council, Earl W. Taylor Post 21 of the American Legion and as a board member of the United Methodist church.   

While attending a 40-year High school reunion in Clay Center, Duane was reacquainted with Ruth Yarrow Lang.  They were married on November 2, 1980 at First Baptist Church in Clay Center and enjoyed a long and happy marriage of 36 years. Ruth survives at the home. He is also survived by five children, Margaret (Steve) Songer of Leavenworth, Kansas, Nancy (Wayne) Ronnebaum of Beloit, Kansas, Warren (Brenda) Todd of Seneca Douglas (Karen) Todd of Seneca and Roger (Caroline) Todd of Havensville; and three step-children, Carolyn Branson of Manhattan, Kansas, Ken Lang (Cindy)of Manhattan, Kansas and Ron (Marcy) Lang of Newton, Kansas. He also leaves 18 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Polly Todd, on January 9, 1980 after a struggle with cancer; two brothers, Dr. Donald Todd and Dr. Eldon Todd; and two sisters, Margaret Mitchell, and Clema Todd.

Duane believed in God, and believed in a hereafter. Most likely he’s riding one of his favorite Arabian horses through heaven right now.

A schedule visitation will be held on Thursday evening from 6 to 8 PM, at the Lauer Funeral Home, family and friends will come together to celebrate Duane’s life at 10:00 AM on Friday, July 14th at United Methodist Church in Seneca. Burial will take place at the Seneca Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to suggest that donations be made to the United Methodist Church, in Seneca, Kansas, or the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital.

Coletta Mae Robidoux, 76, of Reserve, passed late Friday evening, July 7, 2017, at her home with family by her side.

She was born at Horton, April 2, 1941, the daughter of Olaf and Frances Cuddy Armstrong and grew up near Willis where she attended schools, working hard to earn her GED in the 1980’s. Coletta, once her family was raised in this area, then moved to Miles City, MT, Riverton, WY, and finally settled in Arizona where she worked in housekeeping for motels prior to working as a cook on ranches in Tuscan, Arizona most of her working life.

Coletta was a Christian. She was dedicated mother and enjoyed her family. To say she enjoyed crafts was an understatement! She made candy, baked, enjoyed the family dinners, and gatherings with her children.

She and Charles Robidoux were high school sweethearts but went their separate ways, getting together in later years where they both returned to this area about nine years ago. They were married in Falls City, NE, March 29, 2011. Charles survives at home with step-daughter Anna..

Other survivors include children Sandy and Tim Hatcher, William (Billy) Baird, Margie and Wes Hardy, all of Miles City, MT, Anna Baird of Reserve; step-children: Rick Robidoux of Riverton, WY, Joan Robidoux and Darren Hill of Hiawatha, Edward and Lisa Robidoux of Wetmore, Brandon and Ashley Robidoux of Billings, MT, April Robidoux of Riverton; a sister; 19 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter Cristy; brother Willard; ex-husband and father to her children, his name is Charlie Baird.

The family will receive friends at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha from 10 until 11 a.m. Thursday, July 13, with service to follow at 11. Private family burial will be at Claytonville Cemetery, south of Hiawatha.

Memorial contributions are suggested to help with funeral costs, sent in care of funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Darlene K. Broxterman, 88, Vermillion, KS, died Monday, July 10, 2017 at the Frankfort Community Care Home.

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 12, from noon until 5 p.m. at Padden Funeral Chapel in Frankfort.

A rosary service will be held at 7 p.m., Wednesday, at Annunciation Catholic Church in Frankfort.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 13, at Annunciation Catholic Church.

Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Lillis.

Survivors include her husband, Ralph; son, Daniel (Susie) Broxterman, Frankfort; and sister, Rita Neff, Topeka.

A memorial fund has been established and will be designated later. Contributions may be sent in care of Padden Funeral Chapel.

Raymond Carl Madorin, 91, Valley Falls, died Monday, July 10, 2017, at F.W. Huston Senior Living Center at Winchester.

    He was born Dec. 27, 1925, north of Valley Falls, the son of Henry and Esther Florence Wolthausen Madorin. He graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1943. Raymond served in the US Army and was stationed in Oklahoma.

    Raymond was a hard worker and was known as “Mr. Fix-it”. He was a farmer-stockman for most of his life. He was also a mechanic and had worked at Mark’s Repair, Zwygart Chevrolet and Mercier Chevrolet, all in Valley Falls. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Valley Falls.

    Raymond married Janice Jacqulyn Jolliffe, March 10, 1967, at Oskaloosa.

    He was preceded in death by a grandson, Gabriel Kidd; a step-daughter, Jeanie Painter; and a brother, Clarence “Sonny” Madorin.

    Survivors include his wife, Jackie, of the home; a son, Dan Madorin, Valley Falls; a step-daughter, Julie Kidd, Topeka; two brothers, Vernon Dean Madorin, Topeka, and Donald Lee Madorin, Perry; two sisters, Ruth Ann Boten, Topeka, and Carolyn Pringle, Mercer Island, Washington; two grandchildren, Rebecca McMullen and Jonathan Painter; and seven great-grandchildren.

    A funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 15, 2017, at Calvary Baptist Church. Burial will follow at the Valley Falls Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church from 9:00 a.m. until service time.

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

Doris Elaine Krusemark, 93, of Atchison died Sunday, July 9th, 2017 at the Atchison Senior Village.

Funeral services will be 11:00 am on Thursday, July 13th, 2017 at the First Christian Church with Rev. Russ Cooper officiating. Burial will follow in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 AM Thursday, at the First Christian Church, Atchison. Memorial contributions are suggested to the First Christian Church, Benedictine College or Northeast Kansas Hospice and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, 800 Kansas Ave, Atchison, KS which is handling the arrangements. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Doris Elaine Lovgren was born on March 19, 1924 in Atchison, KS the daughter of David E. and Geneva (Fletcher) Lovgren. Elaine graduated from Atchison High School in 1942 and attended the Mt. Saint Scholastica College. She worked as office manager and nurse’s aide for Dr. Charles Young for many years. Elaine was an active member and former deaconess for the First Christian Church, where she also sang in the choir since 1946. She also played the violin, played in the handbell choir, and sang with the Sweet Adelines. Elaine enjoyed singing, music, painting, attending concerts, and especially babysitting the grandchildren.

She was married to Robert F. Krusemark Sr. on April 19, 1944 in Atchison, KS. Mr. Krusemark preceded her in death on May 8, 2001. Survivors include four sons, Robert F.(Cynthia) Krusemark, Jr, Port Jefferson, NY, Dr. William D.(Susan) Krusemark, Kansas City, MO., Lt. Col (Ret) Thomas W. (Renee’) Krusemark, Dayton, Ohio and Daniel L. (Mary Ann) Krusemark, Atchison, KS., a daughter, Dr. Ruth Krusemark, Atchison, KS., twelve grandchildren, eight great grandchildren. Her parents, step-mother Hannah Krusemark Lovgren, husband Robert, and sister Helen Otte, preceded her in death.

Dorothy F. Petty, 81, formerly of Hiawatha, went to be with her Lord Sunday morning, July 9, 2017, at Aldersgate Nursing Home in Topeka, surrounded by her family.

Dorothy was born at Newton, Kansas, one of four children born to Martin and Opal Blosser Loucks. She attended rural Wilson grade school and Fredonia High School. The family moved to Wichita to live briefly in 1945 before returning to rural Wilson County.

Dorothy was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church of Hiawatha where she was very active through the years. In her early years, she taught Sunday school and Bible School; and involved with the United Methodist Women. When her daughters were in Girl Scouts, she served as a leader. Dorothy decorated cakes, belonged to Home Demonstration Unit; and sewed for the hospital for 26 years. First and foremost, she was dedicated to her family and loved them dearly. She enjoyed her friends and neighbors very much. She liked to cook, can, sew, quilt, collect stamps, and bowl.

Dorothy married Jerry R. Petty, July 24, 1955, at Fredonia, KS. When they first were married, they lived near New Albany, KS prior to moving to Burlington, KS in 1964 where he was employed with United/Sprint Telephone Co. In 1969, they moved their family to Hiawatha to live until his death December 21, 2005. Through the years, they enjoyed camping, traveling, and fishing. Dorothy continued to make Hiawatha home until 2006 when she moved to Topeka to be near her daughters.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; a daughter Ronda Lee Wenger, July 28, 1982; and a brother Martin James Loucks.

Survivors include two daughters Rita Petty, Jana Petty, both of Topeka; a brother William Loucks of Manhattan; a sister Rebecca Loucks of Coudersport, PA; grandson Travis (Sheila) Wenger; 4 great-grandchildren: Zayne Wenger, Sydney, Tanner, and Samantha Chartier.

A Celebration of Dorothy’s life is planned for 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 12, at the First United Methodist Church in Hiawatha, with Rev. Jacob Cloud officiating. Interment will follow at Hiawatha Cemetery.

The family will meet with friends from 6 until 8 Tuesday evening, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Midland Hospice or Hiawatha Cemetery, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Paul Ellsworth Dittemore, of Troy, Kansas, passed away July 3, 2017, age 88.

Paul died peacefully in his sleep in Highland, Kansas on July 3, 2017, just shy of his 89th birthday. He was born July 5, 1928 at the family home near Severance, Kansas, the son of Closky James Dittemore and Etta Elizabeth Lewis. He had just started his first year of school in Severance in 1934 when the family lost their farm in the Depression and moved to a three-room filling station in Troy with no heat or plumbing. He graduated from Troy High School in 1946 as President of his class and President of the Troy chapter of the National Honor Society. He received an Associate in Science Certificate in 1949 from St. Joseph Missouri Junior College, after having to drop out twice to work. With financial assistance from his brother Calvin, he was able to enroll in Kansas State University and graduated in 1952 with a BS in Architectural Engineering.

After graduation, Paul returned to Troy and in 1955 started a construction business in rented space. In 1960 he bought the building where he was renting (now the home of the Doniphan County Library). He specialized in light commercial and residential remodeling, and for many years did most of the work on the Doniphan County Courthouse and the buildings of USD#429 school district. He also served as state inspector on the construction of the National Guard Armory at Troy. He mostly retired from his business around 2005. He claimed he was “fortunately or unfortunately” a much better craftsman than businessman.

From the start, Paul was very involved in the civic life of Troy and Doniphan County. In the late 1950s he and a group of Doniphan County business people created a development plan and zoning ordinance for Doniphan County. This grew into the Doniphan County Planning and Zoning Commission of which he was a member and later Chairman. As a member of that Commission he was a founding member of MO-KAN Regional Council, a council of governments comprised of four counties in Missouri and two in Kansas for the purpose of economic development. He served on the MO-KAN Council for 35 years, as the longest-serving founding member. In the late 1960s, Paul served on the Missouri River Recreation Area Central Committee which explored the potential recreational possibilities in the Kansas Counties bordering the Missouri River. In the 1970s he served on the Northeast Kansas Transportation Advisory Council, and was also a member of the Doniphan County Bicentennial Committee. He served several years on the Doniphan County Economic Development Commission. The Doniphan County Chamber of Commerce honored him one year with their “Quiet Hero” award.

For 25 years he was involved in Troy city government as Councilman, Council President and Mayor. He stayed active in Troy’s civic and social life as a member of the Troy Kiwanis Club, a deacon and member of the board of the Troy Christian Church, a troop Committeeman and member of the Executive Board of the Pony Express Council of the Boy Scouts, and a long-time member and Secretary-Treasurer of the Mt. Olive Cemetery Association. He taught Engineering Graphics I and II at Highland Community College for 25 years. After installing bowling lanes for a customer in the late 1950s he became a bowling enthusiast, sponsoring a team and serving as secretary-treasurer of the Merchants League for many years.

Paul was a real history buff and became an expert on the history of Doniphan County. He was a Life Member of the Kansas State Historical Society and a member and past chairman of the Doniphan County Heritage Commission, which develops historical districts and recommends properties for state and national historical registry. As a member of the Doniphan County Historical Society, he provided technical assistance, labor, tools and materials for the restoration of the Nelson Rogers home, the oldest surviving building in Troy, and the related museum. He was a member and preservation officer of the Gateway Chapter of the Oregon California Trails Association.

Paul enlisted and served nine years in the Service Battery, 154th Field Artillery Battalion, 35th Division of the Kansas National Guard, eight of them as Company Clerk.

He will be remembered as a good friend and valued member of his family and community. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Calvin Dittemore and his sister Dorothy Dowden. He is survived by his brother James C. Dittemore of Olathe KS, nephews Roger Dowden of Loveland CO and David Dowden of Malone NY, and nieces Pamela Griffin of Omaha, NE, Janna McGee of Leander TX, Mori Watson of Sherman TX, Brenda Lawrenson of Volin SD, and Robin Meyen of Wichita KS.

Graveside services and burial, 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, July 11 at the Mount Olive Cemetery in Troy. There is no scheduled visitation. A memorial service will be scheduled and announced by late summer. Friends may call at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home, in Troy, after 12 noon Monday.

Donations in lieu of flowers are requested, to the Doniphan County Historical Society, the Mt. Olive Cemetery Association or the Troy Christian Church.

Alfred Roze, age 82 of Auburn, passed away Sunday, July 09, 2017, at his son’s home in LaVista.

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law David Roze and Shirley Roof of LaVista; grandchildren David Scott Roze, Amanda and husband Nelson Chadwick, and Christine and husband Cecilio Ariza; 7 great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends. 

A funeral service will be Thursday, July 13, 10:00 a.m. at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn.  Burial will follow in Sheridan West Cemetery near Auburn.  Visitation will be at the funeral home Wednesday 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.
 

Betty Mae Schwant, 71, of Seneca, died Saturday, July 8, 2017 at her home.
 
She was born April 5, 1946 at the Onaga Hospital to Ward and Genevieve Wege Schwartz.  She attended Onaga Grade School and High School, graduating in 1964.
 
Betty attended Crum’s Beauty School in June of 1964 and graduated in March of 1965.  She worked alongside her twin sister Pat in Council Grove for one year before moving to Topeka and working in the J.C. Penney Styling Salon.
 
She was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Sabetha.
 
Betty married Eldon Schwant on October 9, 1966 at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Wheaton.  He survives, of the home.  Betty and Eldon lived in Manhattan until Eldon finished college.  They then lived in Clay Center, Osborne and Yates Center before moving to Seneca for his final job placement in 1976.  There Betty owned and operated the Hair Affair beauty salon in her home.  She also worked various jobs around town.
 
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ward Schwartz and Genevieve Myers, and her step-father Charles Myers.
 
Other survivors include a son, Scott Schwant (Kristina), Holts Summit, MO; two daughters, Lori Jones, Dearborn, MO and Amy Isaacs (Matthew), Tonganoxie; nine grandchildren, Nathan, Noah, Sara, Hanna, Gavin, Peyton, Tucker, Adam and Sage; one brother, Lee Schwartz (Marilyn), Onaga; two sisters, her twin, Pat Becker (Leon), Centralia and Carol McCormick (Jim), Blaine; a brother and sister-in-law, Dan and Janice Harris, Junction City; and numerous nieces and nephews.
 
Betty was known for her friendly smile and loving, giving heart.  Her family was her life.  In her younger days she enjoyed cooking and camping with family and friends.
 
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 14th at the First Congregational Church, UCC in Onaga.  Burial will follow in the Onaga Cemetery.  Betty will lie in state Thursday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Onaga where a Prayer Service will be held at 6:30 p.m., followed by visitation until 8:00 p.m.  Memorials are suggested to the Betty Schwant Memorial Fund, to be designated later, 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
 

Patricia Sue (Smith) Bratcher, 68, of Brownville, Nebraska was born October 15, 1948, in Columbus, Nebraska to George E. and Nolma E. (Lucht) Smith.  She began her schooling in Columbus, Nebraska before completing 5th and 6th grade in Bellevue.  Patricia then attended junior and senior high school in Ralston graduating from Ralston High School with the class of 1966.

On August 16, 1968, Patricia was united in marriage to John L. Bratcher in Papillion, Nebraska.  To this union a daughter, Elizabeth, was born.  Patricia and John raised their daughter in Brownville where Patricia was active in many local organizations.  She was a member of the Brownville Christian Church, Walnut Grove Cemetery, Bluebirds Across Nebraska, and a former member of the Brownville Order of Eastern Star.  She and John became residents of the Good Samaritan Society later in life when their heath began to decline.

Patricia passed away on Tuesday, June 27, 2017, at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Auburn, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of 68 years, eight months, and twelve days.  She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Richard, Rodney, and David Smith, and an infant daughter.

Patricia is survived by her loving daughter Elizabeth Youngs and her wife Angela Laing of Brownville, NE; granddaughters: Alyssa Youngs, Lilith Laing, and Viviane Laing all of Brownville, NE;  brothers: Jack Smith and his wife Jean of Spring Lake, NC; Ken Smith and his wife Sheryl of Omaha, NE; Steve Smith of Lincoln, NE; a sister Debra Russell-Wright and her husband Donald of Brownville, NE; sisters-in-law: Pam Smith of LaVista, NE; Darla Smith of Omaha, NE; Elaine Smith of Omaha, NE; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 15, 2017, at the First Christian Church in Brownville, Nebraska with Pastor Robert Chitwood officiating.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be given to donor’s choice with a later designation.

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

Services are entrusted to Hall Funeral Chapel-707 15th ST. Auburn, NE 68305 (402) 274-3131

William “Bill” Frederick Osborne, 66, of Auburn, Nebraska was born on December 6, 1950 in Auburn, Nebraska to Willis and Florence (Hill) Osborne.  Bill was raised in Auburn where he attended grade school and junior high.  He was a baptized member of the Auburn Christian Church and graduated from Auburn High School with the class of 1969.  After graduating, Bill took classes at Peru State College. 

Bill began his working career at Wood Carve Cabinets in Auburn.  He was employed there for many years before working with his father at Martin Mariettea Rock Quarry near Weeping Water.  Bill then worked for the Street Department for the City of Auburn and later at Glen’s Corner Market where he helped bag and deliver groceries.

Bill passed away on Thursday, July 6, 2017, at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Auburn, Nebraska having reached the age of sixty-six years and seven months.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Susan Tanner and Nancy Yates.

Bill is survived by his brothers: Tom Osborne and his wife Janet of Auburn, NE; John Osborne and his wife Cyndi of Nebraska City, NE; brothers-in-law: Kurt Tanner of Nemaha, NE; Robert Yates of Auburn, NE; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, July 10, 2017, at The Hall Funeral Chapel in Auburn, Nebraska with Pastor Tom Osborne officiating.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.to 2 p.m. on Monday, July 10, 2017, at The Hall Funeral Chapel  707 15th ST. in Auburn, Nebraska.

Interment will be at the Sheridan West Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Auburn Rescue Squad.

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

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

Leonard Paul Fangman, 83, Topeka, passed away Friday, July 7, 2017.

Leonard was born on December 30, 1933, in St. Benedict KS, the son of Paul and Florence Stallbaumer Fangman. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army. On November 12, 1960, Leonard Fangman and Mary Kay Strathman were united in marriage, enjoying 48 years together. Mary preceded him in death on December 22, 2008. He retired from Santa Fe Railroad as a Carman.

Leonard was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Council No. 4254 and Most Pure Heart of Mary Church, where he was an active volunteer. He enjoyed fishing, but most of all he loved spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren. Leonard was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and brother. He was dearly loved and will be deeply missed.

Grateful to have shared his life are his children, Larry Fangman (Kristy), Topeka, Teresa Stallbaumer (Lynn), Sabetha, James Fangman (Brenda), Douglasville GA, Darren Fangman (Susan) and David Fangman, both of Topeka; ten grandchildren; brothers, Charles, Elmer, John and Lester Fangman; sisters, Janie Werner and Sr. Esther Fangman, OSB.

Leonard was also preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ruth Haug and brother, Gilbert Fangman.

Family will greet friends from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614, where a parish rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church.

Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Most Pure Heart of Mary Church or to the Northeast Kansas Parkinson Association, sent in care of the funeral home.


 

Betty Jean (Duerfeldt) Hersh, 88, of Falls City, Nebraska was born on November 27, 1928, in rural Verdon, Nebraska to Albert and Alta (Nichols) Duerfeldt.  She was raised near Verdon where she attended country school and later graduated from Verdon High School.  As a young girl, Betty was very artistic and enjoyed drawing, painting, and oil painting.  On March 10, 1949, Betty was united in marriage to Billy Hersh.  To this union three daughters, Carol, Donna, and Billy were born.  Betty was a homemaker most of her life and enjoyed flowers, watching and feeding birds, crocheting, painting, and spending time with her grandchildren.  She was also member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Falls City.        

Betty passed away on Wednesday, July 5, 2017, at the Falls City Care Center in Falls City, Nebraska having reached the age of eighty-eight years, seven months, and eight days.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Billy, grandson Trey Lundy, a sister Mary (Harold) Fischer, and a brother DeWayne (Joan) Duerfeldt.

Betty is survived by her daughters: Carol (Jim) King of Omaha, NE; Donna (John) Simpson of Falls City, NE; Billie Mackey of Dawson, NE; 11 grandchildren: 22 great-grandchildren; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Graveside Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 7, 2017, at Steele Cemetery in Falls City, Nebraska with Pastor Andrew Chavanak officiating.

Family will greet friends from 7-8 p.m. on Thursday, July 6, 2017, at The Hall Funeral Chapel in Falls City, Nebraska. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family’s choice with a later designation.

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

Services are entrusted to Hall Funeral Chapel-2403 Harlan ST. Falls City, NE (402) 245-3131

Kathleen Ann Church, 72, Of Omaha formerly of Humboldt, Nebraska was born September 7, 1944 in Humboldt, Nebraska to Leonard V. and Helen Maxine (Richardson) Church.  She attended Pine Ridge country school northwest of Humboldt before schooling in Shubert for a short time.  Kathleen finished her education graduating from Table Rock High School.  After graduating, Kathleen moved to Omaha, Nebraska where she has resided since.  She became a resident of the Omaha Metro Care and Rehabilitation Center later when her health began to decline.

Kathleen passed away on Saturday, July 1, 2017, at the Omaha Metro Care and Rehabilitation Center in Omaha, Nebraska having reached the age of 72 years, nine months, and twenty-four days.  She was preceded in death by her parents and nephew Louis Zuck Jr. 
Kathleen is survived by her loving sisters: Carolyn Zuck and her husband Lou of Omaha, NE; Marilyn Church of Omaha, NE; nieces: Shellie Kroeger and her husband Ron of Omaha, NE; Julie Zuck of Omaha, NE; Angela Zuck of Omaha, NE; and many other relatives and friends. 
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 8, 2017, at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Howard Blecha officiating.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to services on Saturday, July 8, 2017, at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska.
Interment will be at the Humboldt Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to family’s choice with a later designation.

Online messages of condolence can be left at www.wherrymortuary.com
Services are entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-207 N. Nemaha ST. Humboldt, NE 68376 (402) 862-2915 
 

Marian LaVon Kellenberger, 87, of Sabetha died peacefully on July 3, 2017, at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha. Marian was born in Omaha, Nebraska on May 31, 1930 to Verne and Faye (Dunn) Couch.

She attended school in the Shenandoah, Iowa and attended Sabetha High School until her family moved to the Kansas City area.

She was united in marriage to Eugene Kellenberger on June 20, 1948. Six children were born to this union, and a grandson was adopted and raised as their son.

They lived on a dairy farm north of Sabetha and later moved to a home North of Morrill. Marian, first and foremost, was a mom and grandmother. She raised dogs as a business which included numerous breeds. She also worked various jobs outside the home.

Marian and Gene were converted and baptized in the Sabetha Apostolic Christian Church in 1965. They were married for 62 years before Gene passed away in 2010. Also preceding her in death were her daughter, Cathy Jo; parents; daughter-in-law, Kathy; sister, Joyce Fradenburgh, and brother, Dick Couch.

She is survived by her sons, Jay (Marilyn) of Sabetha and Jim (Ann) of Towanda, Illinois; a daughter, Janelle (Bob) of Merriam, Kansas; sons, Art (Joy) of Morrill, Gale (Belinda) of Morrill and Christopher (Nicole) of Mission, Kansas, two sisters, Donna Bean of Kansas City, Missouri and Jackie Robertson of Raymore, Missouri, and brother, Gary Couch of DeSoto, Kansas and 18 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

Funeral service will be Friday, July 7, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at the Apostolic Christian Church in Sabetha. Visitation will be Thursday, July 6, 2017 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha. The interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Apostolic Christian Home sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Sabetha, Kansas 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Lee T. Hinkle, 97, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, July 2, 2017 at the VA Medical Center in Topeka, Kansas.

He was born on May 19, 1920 in Fairview, Kansas the son of Walter and Lillian Thomas Hinkle.

Lee grew up in the Fairview and Wetmore, Kansas areas and graduated from Fairview High School. He attended Kansas State University for 1 year before enlisting in the U.S. Army where he served during WWII in Alaska. After his four year enlistment he graduated from Colorado State University with a entomology degree. Lee then returned to Horton and went to work for Raney Pest Control before starting his own business, Hinkle Pest Control. Lee also ran Hinkle Furs where he bought, sold furs and taught trapping lessons. He was a member of the Horton VFW, American Legion Post #415 Auxiliary, Hall of Fame member of the National Trappers Association and worked with the Alcoholic Anonymous group on the Kickapoo Reservation.

He married Emily Meyers and they later divorced. He then married Maxine Dryer on July 29, 1966 in Oklahoma. She survives of the home. Other survivors include a son, Benjamin Dryer of Horton, Kansas; two daughters, Pamela Pete of Washougal, Washington and LeAnn (Robert) Brown of Horton, Kansas; eight grandchildren those locally, Robert Dryer II, Maresa Dryer, Cheyenne Brown and Dakota Brown, twelve great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Debbie Hinkle, three brothers, Monty, Blaine and Galen Hinkle, two sisters, Edith Dennis and Blanche Davis.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, July 7, 2017 at the Kickapoo Community Building. The family will greet friends on Thursday evening from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. Burial with military graveside rites will be at the Kahbeah Chapel Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation.

A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com. The family has requested that to dress casual and where your K-State or Cardinal Gear to his services.

At the young and playful age of 89, Elmer Peter Lierz, adoring and devoted husband to JoAnn, proud and dedicated father, and loving grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away at his home surrounded by family on July 2, 2017.

The first of eight children to Leo and Bertha Bergman Lierz, Elmer was born in his parents’ farmhouse at 8pm, Thursday, April 12, 1928. Just 11 months later he became a big brother to Lester. Elmer enjoyed telling the stories of the teachers that mistook him and Lester as twins during school. Within 3 years, 2 boys had grown to 4 with Verness and Gerald, and by age 12, Elmer was also big brother to 3 sisters, Cleta Mae, Eileen and Marceil. After completing the 8th grade at Fidelity Country School, Elmer left school to assist on the family farm near Sabetha. Elmer enlisted in the National Guard Army Reserves on June 22, 1948 at 20 years old and was honorably discharged on June 21, 1955 after 7 years of service, having earned the highest rank of Sergeant First Class. He also played with his brothers on the Fidelity Woodlawn Meadowlarks baseball team with Elmer at 2nd base, Lester as shortstop, Verness catching and Gerald pitching or in the outfield.

At 21, Elmer had been eyeing and admiring the dancing talent of the young JoAnn Elizabeth Heiman, so when JoAnn’s ‘ride’ wanted to leave a dance early, Elmer offered to take her home and took the chance to sweep her off her feet. Elmer proposed on Christmas Eve, 1950 in the car outside of church and finally made JoAnn his bride on February 9, 1952 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict, Kansas. Elmer and JoAnn made their home on a 240-acre farm just west of Oneida, only a 5-mile drive from Seneca. They worked hard milking cows, growing crops, raising chickens, hogs and eventually 8 children in the 4 bedroom, 1 bath 2-story farmhouse on the hill (Poverty Knob, as Elmer would often call it).

As a farmer, Elmer was known for his pristine fields and immaculately clean machinery. In 1978 the Kansas Bankers Association presented Elmer, JoAnn and Elmer’s dad, Leo with a Soil Conservation Award for establishing practices to prevent erosion and maintain the fertility and productivity of the land. Elmer was blessed to farm side-by-side with Leo until his death in June, 1987.

Elmer served as Treasurer for the Gilman Township for many years & was an avid hunter. He put his National Guard marksman and sharpshooting experience to good use, eventually taking the CB radio handle name, “One Shot.” Elmer and JoAnn enjoyed socializing and having company over, playing cards, square dancing, attending all the local church picnics and traveling to Kansas City, Iowa, Washington state and California. Elmer enjoyed seeing his family grow as well as attending the baptisms, birthday parties, graduations, games and weddings of his children and grandchildren.

Once all 8 children were grown, Elmer and JoAnn sold the rest of their dairy herd to an Iowa lady and her daughter, Doris and Phyllis Lemke, and, as was customary, a lifelong friendship was born.

In March, 2000, after 48 years on the farm, Elmer and JoAnn moved into their 4-bedroom, 3 bath ranch home in Seneca. Enjoying their new adventure, but missing his 240 acres, Elmer quickly became bored. Living only ½ block east of Crestview Manor, it was not long before Sara Sourk, Administrator noticed his perfectly manicured lawn and approached Elmer about the opportunity to take over as Groundskeeper. As he did everything in life, Elmer took great pride in his work meticulously tending to the lawncare at Crestview. After almost 17 years and at the age of 89, Elmer handed over the lawncare duties to his son, Alan.

Although he missed his days on the farm, Elmer was in high demand once moving into Seneca. At 72 he began working for the Nemaha County Co-op fertilizer department driving trucks to haul anhydrous, corn, soybeans, etc. He relished those days spent with the guys and could still be found working overtime hours at the age of 88. Elmer was also recruited by Nemaha Valley Motors to drive cars, by his son, Lynn to pick up countertops from Lincoln and his son, Gene to assist on his farm.

Elmer’s love for red was on display every spring and summer as he and JoAnn tended to their multiple red geraniums around the house. They also came to love the wrens, finches, sparrows, robins, cardinals, blue jays, orioles and hummingbirds that visited them throughout the year to occupy Dad’s coffee can bird houses, the purple martin bird house, hummingbird feeder, bird bath and water bowl. One day a hummingbird flew into their glass patio door and fell to the step below. Dad hurried out to pick it up, held it in his strong hand while gently petting it until it woke back up and flew away.

Elmer volunteered countless times as a funeral usher at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, could be heard leading the rosary before daily masses, seen with JoAnn every Monday at 8am adoration (which they did for over 20 years) and visiting friends and family at Crestview Manor and Life Care Center.

Taking every opportunity to celebrate life, Elmer and JoAnn brought family together for their 25th, 40th, 50th, 60th and 65th wedding anniversaries as well as their 80th and 85th birthdays.

Elmer was a diehard fan of the Kansas City Royals and the KU men’s basketball team. He was a man of strong faith, always had a corny joke to share or felt the need to give everyone a hard time, loved to celebrate, never had a hair out of place, kept an immaculate farm, always gave when he could (and even when he couldn’t), had a love for red (his cars, Mom’s geraniums, his ties, Mom’s clothes, etc; “Everything looks better in red.”) and had a passion for farming and all things outdoors. Above all else and no matter what, Dad wanted his family to stay together.

Elmer was welcomed ‘Home’ by numerous family members: his parents, Bertha (1976) and Leo (1987); brothers Victor (1937), Lester (1963) and Verness (2014); sisters Cleta Mae Hammes (2005) and Marceil Rottinghaus (2009); son Gerard (1963); and granddaughter Heather (1986).

Elmer leaves behind his dance partner and wife of 65 years, JoAnn; 6 sons, Lynn (Gail), Gene (Joan), Alan (Julie) and Russel (Amy), all of Seneca; Linus, Baileyville; Gary (Brenda), Sabetha; 2 daughters, Donna, Dexter and Sandra (Mike), Wichita; 12 grandsons, Ryan, Randy, Matt, Jeff and Philip Lierz, Bradley Berkley, Chris, Logan, Colin, Jason and Nicholas Lierz and Jacob Berkley; 9 granddaughters, Laurie Osterhaus, Wendy Fleagle, Nikki Ronnebaum, Krista Morgan, Michelle Keim, Lindsey Lierz, Kaylie Berkley, Bridget and Kaitlyn Lierz; 9 great-grandsons, Ethan and Mason Ronnebaum, Aiden Lierz, Hunter Fleagle, Fenton Keim, Jeffrey Lierz, Brycen Ronnebaum, Leo Lierz and Tucker Keim; and 3 great-granddaughters, Josie and Addison Osterhaus and Charli Fleagle; 1 sister, Eileen (Francis) Sudbeck, Seneca and 1 brother, Gerald (Ethel) of Holton.

Elmer will be laid to rest near his son, Gerard, granddaughter, Heather & his parents in the Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Seneca, KS. Pallbearers for the funeral service are all his grandsons.

The rosary will be prayed in the Lauer Funeral Home at 2pm and 7pm on Thursday, July 6th.

The mass of Christian burial will be on Friday, July 7th at 10am, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca, KS.

Memorials are for Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church’s window project and/or Crestview Manor sent in care of the family.

Lillie Marie (Colley) Blevins passed away July 1st, 2017, at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha where she had been a resident since 2013. She was 97.

Lillie Marie was born in Troy, KS on February 7th, 1920, the oldest daughter of Wm Everett Sr. and Verlie Mae (Clary) Colley, who both preceded her in death. She started school in Troy a year ahead of others her age. When the family moved to the Highland area, she attended the Jeffers country school. She graduated from Highland High School in 1937. Lillie Marie worked as a cook at the Highland Grade School for a number of years.

Lillie Marie and Leonard Blevins were married on November 20, 1937. They were married 66 years when he passed in May of 2004.  They lived and farmed in the Highland area for many years. Lillie Marie is also preceded in death by infant son, Eddie Wayne, a granddaughter Leigh Ann (Blevins) Twombly, sister Geneva Wagner, and a brother Wm Everett (Bud) Colley, Jr.

Lillie Marie was baptized and a long time member of the Highland Christian Church. She was a loving Wife, Mother, and Grandmother. All who knew her loved her sweet smile.

Lillie Marie is survived by four sons, Larry (Sharelle), Jerry (Carol), Mike (Pam), Jim (Patty) all of Highland, a daughter Judy (Owen) McCourt of Topeka; a sister Betty French of Hiawatha; sister in law Mary Lou Colley, also of Highland. Also she is survived by 22 grandchildren; 48 great-grandchildren; and 8 great-great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Lillie Marie’s life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 7, at the Highland Christian Church. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland after 10 until 4:30 Thursday. The family will meet with friends from 6 until 7:30 at the Highland Christian Church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Church Memorial Fund, sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33, 66035.

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

Johnnie Leland Andrews (January 29, 1938 - June 30, 2017) Johnnie L. Andrews, 79, of rural Everest, Kansas, passed away on Friday, June 30, 2017 at his home. He was born on January 29, 1938 in Horton, Kansas the son of Charles and Nina Hixson Andrews. Johnnie was a rural mail carrier out of Everest and enjoyed farming and raising his black angus cows. He was a prior member of the Elks Lodge, Lions Club, Kansas Livestock Association, served in the U.S. Army National Guard and on the Washington Township Board. On July 10, 1963 he married Toni Schecher in Horton, Kansas. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include a daughter, Julie Andrews of rural Everest, Kansas; two grandchildren, Shawna Stoldt and Christopher Beagle; three great grandchildren, Gracie Andrews, Aleigha Andrews and Jax Andrews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Arlene Andrews and a son, Jeff Andrews. The family will greet friends on Monday, July 3, 2017 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. Funeral services will be at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, July 5, 2017 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. A private burial will be at the Wolf River Cemetery near Leona, Kansas. Memorials may be made to the Johnnie Andrews memorial fund to be designated later and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com