Elda Elene Livengood, 94, of Sabetha, KS passed away Friday, December 29, 2017 at the Apostolic Christian Home.

She was born on a farm north of Sabetha on June 28, 1923 to Forrest and Katie (Mishler) Payne. She attended country grade schools Rock Hill and Rock Creek. In 1940 she graduated from Sabetha High School.

On January 7, 1944 Elda married Leonard Langdon Livengood. She was a homemaker who loved her family and cooking for them. She was a member of the Morrill Baptist Church.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Forrest and Katie (Mishler) Payne; her husband of 73 years, Langdon Livengood; and a twin sister, Nelda Halbert.

She is survived by her three children: Charles “Chuck” (Judy) Livengood of Port St. Joe, FL, Shirley Bozone of Wamego, KS, and Lee (Audra) Livengood of Sabetha, KS; grandchildren, Shannon (Thad) Schneider, Brandon Bozone, Chris (Missy) Livengood, Julie (Jon) Groves, Kody (Alisha) Livengood, Abby (Will) Smith, Dylan (Christina) Livengood, and Lauren Livengood; and eight great grandchildren.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 4, 2018 at Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Visitation will be Wednesday, January 3, 2018 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be made at the Morrill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Albany Historical Society, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Michael S. Oswalt, 60, of Atchison, KS, passed away Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at the Medicalodge of Atchison.

Michael was cremated. A visitation will be held from 12 until 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 6, 2018, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home.

Michael was born on May 6, 1957 in Topeka, Kansas the son of Emmett K. and Mary Patricia ‘Tish’ McKee Oswalt. Michael attended St. Benedict’s Elementary School and graduated from Maur Hill Prep School in 1975. Michael worked as a skilled bricklayer his entire adult life and his craftmanship is found in buildings all over in the Atchison, St. Joseph, and Kansas City, MO areas. Mike was an Eagle Scout and he enjoyed fishing and gardening.

Mike and Lori Jones were married on August 14, 1999 in Atchison, KS.

Michael is survived by a son, Matthew Wayne Oswalt, Effingham, KS; step-son, Tobin Ford, Effingham; step-daughter, Elizabeth (James) Vieyra, Hutchinson, KS; six brothers, David Oswalt, Leavenworth, KS; Kelly (Beth) Oswalt, St. Joseph, MO; Jerome Oswalt, Dearborn, MO; Owen Oswalt and Brian (Amy) Oswalt, both of Atchison; Chris (Shelley) Oswalt, Platte City, MO; four sisters, Diane (Mike) Perkins, Atchison; Patty (Jim) Blevins, Highland, KS; Marcia Collins and Amy (Mark) Peters, both of Leavenworth, KS; and his caregivers, Jay and Sidwell Jones, Atchison.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Emmett and Tish Oswalt; a nephew, Jerome Oswalt. 

James Ullman 92, of rural Pawnee City, Nebraska passed away on Friday, December 29, 2017 at the Life Care Center in Seneca, Kansas.  He was born on May 28, 1925 to Joseph and Mary (Doksansky) Ullman in Omaha, Nebraska. 

Survived by his wife of 70 years, Luree Ullman of Pawnee City, NE, daughter, Mary Ruegge of Pawnee City, NE, son, Jim Ullman of Pawnee City, NE. 

Services 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 3,2018 at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Reverend Duane Westing officiating.  Visitation Tuesday, January 2, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Interment at the Du Bois Cemetery, Du Bois, Nebraska.  Memorials to family choice.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Camilla “Jo” Alderfer, 63, of Centralia, KS passed away Thursday, December 28, 2017.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at NorthRidge Church in Sabetha. Visitation will be Monday, January 1, 2018 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha. www.popkessmortuaries.com

H. Ann Tozier, 90, of Hiawatha, Kansas formerly of Fairview, Kansas passed away Thursday, December 28, 2017.

Ann was born on August 4, 1927 in Kahoka, Missouri to Theodore and F. Elizabeth (Wurth) Baughman. Her father Theodore passed away when she was young. Her mother, Elizabeth remarried William O. Wagner.

Ann was united in marriage to David “Jim” Tozier on April 2, 1953 in Salina, Kansas. To this union two sons were born, Craig Tozier and Mark Tozier. She enjoyed gardening, quilting, reading and giving to her friends and family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jim on December 25, 2007; and her sons, Craig and Mark Tozier.

She is survived by two brothers, William “Bill” Baughman and his wife, Jean of Carmichael, CA, and Larry Baughman and his wife, Marge of Springfield, MO; and many nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

Ann was cremated and no services are planned at this time. Memorial contributions may be made in her honor to Fairview United Church of Christ, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Charles W. Aeschliman, 98, of Sabetha, KS passed away Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at the Apostolic Christian Home.

Charles donated his body to medical science. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha is handling arrangements.www.popkessmortuaries.com

Leon Robert Ball, 83, of Sabetha, KS entered Eternal Life on Saturday, December 23, 2017.

Leon was born February 4, 1934 of Pennsylvania Dutch German heritage, the son of the late Walter and Goldie (Carter) Ball. Leon attended McPherson High School and graduated in 1952. He served in the Korean War from 1954 to 1956 earning the Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal.

He married Janis M. Wallerstedt on February 24, 1954 and they had three children. Leon and Janis moved from El Dorado, KS to Sabetha in 1967 when he bought Wilbur Haxton’s Beauty and Barber.

Leon was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Fairview, KS. He will be remembered for his gentle spirit and his integrity and commitment to the community.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Janis (Wallerstedt) Ball; his daughter, Linda Jan; and oldest brother, Eugene Ball.

Survivors include two sons, Brian R. Ball (Joy Swallow) of Kansas City, MO; and Darwin T. Ball (Dana) of Prairie Village, KS; three grandchildren, Darcey J. Gigstad (Andy), Alexander E. Ball (Anna) and Drew T. Ball (Kayla); six great grandchildren, Ted, Clive, Burke and Beatrice Gigstad, Meadow and Wilma Ball; one brother, Edwin A. Ball (Doris) of Fairfield Bay, AR; and one sister, Mary E. Pate of McPherson, along with a host of loving nieces and nephews.

Memorial services for Leon will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Fairview, KS. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. prior to service time at the church. Inurnment will follow the service at the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Leon’s name to Immanuel Lutheran Church, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Ruth Coffey, 81, Atchison, Kansas, died Thursday, December 28, 2017, at her residence.

Funeral services will be Saturday, December 30, 2017 at 1:00 P.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with Julie Lindsay officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Saturday, December 30, from noon until 1:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Ruth was born March, 8, 1936, in Kansas City, Missouri, the daughter of Edward and Dollie Dee (Boling) Madison.

She and Marvin “Bud” Coffey were united in marriage on August 27, 1979, in Atchison, Kansas.

Ruth worked alongside her husband for 38 years at Atchison Auto Parts, where she handled bookkeeping.

She enjoyed spending time at their cabin at Lake of the Ozarks and fishing.

Survivors include her husband Bud, two sons, Willard W. (Chris) Smith, Pittsfield, MA, Kenneth L. (Earline Southard) Smith, Atchison, KS, a daughter, Dee A. (Steve) Mansker, Tonganoxie, KS, five grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a grandson, John Stephen Mansker, three brothers, Melvin Lamb, Edwin Madison, Mark Madison, and five sisters, Ada Lamb, Leona Bloomster, Lorene Wiggin, Vivian Ham, and Bonnie Lindsay.

Dale Ralph Keim, 91, of Sabetha, KS passed away Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at the Apostolic Christian Home.

Dale was born August 9, 1926 on a farm north of Sabetha to Marvin and Elizabeth Florence (Rotz) Keim. He was the middle child of three children. He attended Albany school until the 8th grade and graduated in 1945 from Sabetha High School. Dale served in the Navy from 1945 to 1947 as a First Class Seaman. He was part of Operation Crossroads when the Navy detonated the first nuclear bomb test in the Pacific.

Dale drove a truck route from Sabetha Depot to St. Joseph for Union Pacific. When his parents moved from the farm Dale took over the farm and raised cattle. Dale loved checking on, buying, and selling cattle. Once the farm was sold, he worked for his cousin Glen Keim as a loading supervisor at the Georgia Pacific Wallboard Plant in Blue Rapids driving back and forth every day. Dale married Marceda Broxterman on April 20, 1991. He retired from GP in 1987.

Dale enjoyed spending time with his family, and upon retirement, he purchased a brand new 1987 Dodge Caravan that he, Marceda, Bette, Bud, Chuck and Patty took on multiple road trips. In 2004 Dale decided to go back to work driving a school bus. He loved that job and the children. He drove for 8 years and retired again.

Dale lived at home with Marceda until October 31st when he entered the AC Home.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Charles Keim; and a brother-in-law, Merril Bestwick.

He is survived by his wife, Marceda Keim of Sabetha, KS; two daughters, Diana (Harold) Hesseltine of Manhattan, KS, and Elaine (John) Mowder of Sabetha, KS; a sister, Bette Bestwick of Manhattan, KS; four grandchildren, Brandon (Jyll) Campbell of Lawrence, KS, Nolan (Kim) Campbell of Somerville, MA, Andrew Mowder of Kansas City, MO, and Melissa (Richard) Young of Overland Park, KS; and great-grandchildren, Brigan Campbell, Greyson and Connor Young; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 5, 2018 at the NorthRidge Church in Sabetha, KS. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to service time at the church. Inurnment will be made at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Kiwanis of Sabetha Avenue of Flags, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Beverly Ann Meister, 86, of Sabetha, KS passed away peacefully with family and friends by her side on Saturday, December 23, 2017, after a brief stay at Sabetha Manor Nursing Home.

Beverly was born at home on December 23, 1931 to Joseph and Mary Marcena (Larimer) Hundley. She attended the Sabetha schools, and on November 21, 1948 she married William E. “Bill” Meister of rural Humboldt, NE.

Beverly always maintained good work ethics, whether at home or outside the home. In her youth she helped her dad at Hundley Salvage, and could throw iron as well as he could. In her adult years she worked as a waitress and cook for M&M Café, Nab’s, Casper Airport Steak House, Redmond Hotel, and Sabetha Country Club. She also worked various other local businesses such as Sabetha Lanes, Fountains Drug Store, Campbell’s, and Sabetha Schools as a bus driver and as a CNA and CMA at Fountain Villa, Sabetha Manor, and Maple Heights in Hiawatha. Beverly also worked as a cashier at Sac & Fox Casino.

Throughout her lifetime Beverly enjoyed a good cup of coffee, and lots of chatting with her friends and family around her table. She enjoyed dancing, especially the Polka, playing Pinochle, roller skating, bowling, softball, and her many beloved pets. Beverly was a member of the United Brethren Church of Sabetha.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Bill Meister on September 21, 2012; a grandson, Michael S. Gerber; and great-grandson, Charlie Meister.

She is survived by her children, Marcena (Leland) Gerber of Gardner, KS, Denise DeBusk of Morrill, KS, William J. Meister (Jan Weber), and Wayland K. Meister both of Sabetha, KS; her siblings, Roberta J. Argabright and Joseph L. Hundley, both of Sabetha, KS; a step-brother, Scotty Larimer of Carbondale, KS; grandchildren, Adam J. Gerber (Christopher Drazic) of Kansas City, MO, Sidney (Jason) Lang of Sabetha, KS, Shane (Amber) Meister of Wichita, KS, Shawn Hulsing of Seneca, KS, Sheyenne (Nate) Farwell of DuBois, NE, and Courtney (CJ) Loiseau of Frankfort, KS; a step-granddaughter, Alicia (Reggie) Pernell of Seneca, KS; and thirteen great-grandchildren, and an abundance of nieces and nephews; and her beloved cat, Matthew and dog, Pearl.

A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Visitation will be 9:30 a.m. prior to service time at the funeral home. Inurnment will be made at a later date and time. Memorial contributions may be made in her honor to United Brethren in Christ Church, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Shirley A. Spitser, 88 of Pawnee City, Nebraska passed away on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at the Premier Estates in Pawnee City, Nebraska.  She was born on March 6, 1929 in Pierce, Nebraska to Willard and Helen (Voecks) Watson.

Shirley is survived by her children, Susan Spitser of Beatrice, NE, Bruce and wife Betsy Spitser of Pawnee City, NE, Mary Depart and husband Kent of League City, TX, grandchildren, Tyler Spitser and Mackenzie Spitser.

Memorial service 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at the United Methodist Church, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Officiating Pastor Sherry Sklenar.  Visitation on Monday, January 1, 2018 form 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Inurnment at the Pawnee City Cemetery, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Memorials to Pawnee City Library Foundation and/or Pawnee City Athletic Boosters. On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com.

Donna Marie (Brackhahm) Rue, 58, died December 22, 2017 at Falls City, Nebraska due to complications from pancreatic cancer.

Donna was born July 8, 1959 to Donald Ford Brackhahn and Roxie Ann (Edgmon) Brackhahn in Wichita, Kansas. Donna spent her childhood in the Wichita area. In 1974 her family moved to Perry, Oklahoma where she lived for a year before moving to Falls City where she lived the remainder of her life. Donna earned her GED in 1979.

Donna was married to Terry Rue November 5, 1977 and divorced November 1, 1978. Donna’s only child, Heather, born October 6, 1978, died from ALS December 15, 2010.

Donna’s hobbies included painting ceramics, reading, and “collecting junk” (knick knacks which she had artfully displayed about her home.)

Donna is preceded in death by her parents, her daughter, Heather, and several well-loved dogs. She is survived by her brother Jim Brackhahn of Benten, Kansas, three nieces, cousins galore, a smattering of very good friends, and one sweet dog named “Joy”.

Services will be held at a later date.

Sharon Kay (McCorkle) Clelland, 69, of Chanute, KS passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Wichita, KS.

She was born on July 21, 1948 in Topeka, KS to Scott and Roma (Norton) McCorkle. Sharon graduated from Sabetha High School, received her Associate’s Degree from Highland Community College, and Bachelor’s Degree from Peru State with honors. She went on to earn her Master’s Degree at Emporia State University. Sharon was a teacher for ANW Special Education Cooperative for 27 years, teaching gifted students in an eight district area. She enjoyed developing projects to help students pursue their intellectual interest including coaching the Scholar’s Bowl. She retired in 2012.

Sharon was a strong and independent person who loved to travel. Remembered for many road trips with her mother. She had several hobbies including antique shopping, and rock hunting with her friends and family. She has many geode and crystal treasures. For years, she was the county 4-H geology leader, and even judged at the Kansas State Fair.

She was preceded in death by her father, Scott McCorkle; brothers, Dennis, Carl and Darrell McCorkle; and grandparents, Lawrence and Norma (Norton) Snyder, Bill Norton, and Harold and Mabel McCorkle.

Sharon is survived by her son, Mark Clelland of Fort Worth, TX; her daughter, Jennifer (Mike) Davis of Fort Worth, TX; her mother, Roma (Norton) McCorkle of Sabetha, KS; her brother, Jeff McCorkle of Fairview, KS; and her sister, Jeannie (McCorkle) Dyke of Sabetha, KS; and grandchildren, Kylie Gray, Ethan Davis, and Carrson Scott McCorkle Davis, which she adored. Sharon had a large and loving family consisting of many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends that are family too.

Funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 30, 2017 at Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. Visitation will be Friday, December 29, 2017 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Inurnment will be made at a later date and time. Memorial contributions may be made to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Kent M. Bestwick, 66, of Manhattan, Kansas died Saturday, December 23, 2017 at Via Christi Hospital following a stroke.  

He was born July 14, 1951 in Sabetha, Kansas to Merril and Bette (Keim) Bestwick.  He grew up on the family farm near Morrill, Kansas and graduated from Morrill High School in 1969.  He attended Kansas State University graduating from the College of Engineering in 1974.  He served in the United States Army from August 1974 to February 1984 as a Communications Electrical Engineer earning the rank of Captain.  Following his honorable discharge, Kent lived and worked in the San Francisco area working for Lockheed and later Tiburon Systems. 

Kent married Nid Mahayotin on July 31, 1976.  The couple later divorced. 

He moved to Manhattan in 1995 and became a full time “first responder” to his family and friends whenever the need arose. Kent was an avid gardener, voracious reader, and skilled carpenter. Eternally curious, Kent shared his love of learning with his nieces and nephews, eagerly loaning his books and expertise at every available opportunity.

He was preceded in death by his father, Merril Bestwick; and brother-in-law, Burton Robinson.

He is survived by his mother, Bette Bestwick of Manhattan, KS; a sister, Connie Robinson of Sabetha, KS; two brothers, Larry (Lila) Bestwick of Randolph, KS, and Brent (Allison) Bestwick of Olathe, KS; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services will be Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, Kansas. Inurnment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Morrill High School Alumni Scholarship Fund, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Genevieve Marie “Shorty” Sumner, 84, of Lancaster, KS died on Monday, December 25, 2017 at the Atchison Hospital.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM on Friday, December 29th, 2017 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Thursday, December 28th, 2017 at the Becker Dyer Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Mt. Vernon Cemetery Association and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Genevieve Marie “Shorty” Huffman was born on March 19, 1933 in Nortonville, KS the daughter of Herbert and Frances (Hazelett) Huffman. She attended Atchison High School and had worked behind the soda fountain at Ball Brother’s Drug Store from 1950-1958. She was married to Marvin A. Sumner on June 9, 1950 in Atchison, KS. She was a farm wife and helped her husband on the farm near Lancaster. Mr. Sumner preceded her in death on September 24, 2008. Shorty enjoyed watching television, reading and especially her children and grandson.

Survivors include two daughters, Pam Sumner, St. Mary’s, KS, and Sharon (Kim) McEvoy, Leavenworth, KS, a grandson, Sean Sumner McEvoy, Leavenworth, a sister, Frances “Tillie” Testerman, Parkville, MO, and several nieces and nephews. Her parents, husband Marvin, and five brothers, Herb, Ralph, Rod, Bill and Bob Huffman, preceded her in death.

Laura Jean ( Pe-At-Sah-Quah) Negonsott Pahmahmie, 53, of Horton died early Monday morning, December 25, 2017 at the Horton Community Hospital.

She was born July 31, 1964 in Holton, KS the daughter of Emery and Patricia Hayes Negonsott. She attended school in Powhattan, KS at the Kickapoo Nation School. Laura married Johnny Pahmahmie June 24, 1988 in Horton, KS. He preceded her in death July 24, 2007.

Laura worked at Tri County Manor in Horton from 2005 until 2012 when health issues required her to retire.

She is survived by Michael Shopteese of the home, sons; Skyler and wife Hannah Pahmahmie of Horton, KS, Thomas Pahmahmie of Horton, KS, step-son, Michael Fisher of Pottawatomie Reservation, brothers; Anthony and wife Callie Negonsott of Atchison, KS, John and wife Sarah Negonsott of Atchison, KS, Jeffery and wife Arlene Negonsott of Horton, KS, and Shane Negonsott of Pottawatomie Reservation, sisters; Violet and husband Thomas Reese of Rushville, MO, Delores Gormley of Atchison, KS, Rebekah and husband Robbie Curtis of Farley, MO, and Jennifer and husband Mike Collins of Effingham, KS, a grandson; Alexander Pahmahmie, step grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and a son; Matthew Pahmahmie April 20, 2012.

Funeral Services are planned for 10 a.m. Thursday, December 28, 2017 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary. Pastor Tom Stone will officiate. Interment will follow at the Negonsott Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation.

The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesday evening at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton. Memorials are suggested in her name and may be sent to the Mortuary, 909 Central, Horton, KS 66439.

Online condolences to www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Eva D. Martin, 90, of Whiting, KS passed away Monday, December 25, 2017 at Lexington Park Nursing Home in Topeka. She was born March 6, 1927 in Muscotah, KS, the daughter of James Bernard and Eva Mae (Derringer) Wagner.

          Eva lived most of her life in the Whiting community. She graduated from Whiting High School in 1946. She was a homemaker and housewife. Eva also worked for 6 years as a State Livestock Commissioner, 9 ½ years for AT & T and over 18 years at Wagon Wheel and Pooge’s Café in Whiting. She was a member of the Holton V.F.W. Women’s Auxiliary.

          Eva married Paul Frank Martin on September 18, 1954 in Minden, NV. He preceded her in death in 1991. She was also preceded in death by a sister, Geraldine Crable and 3 brothers, John, Walter and Carl Wagner.

          Survivors include a son, Jeffrey Paul Martin (Gerre) of Denton, KS; a sister, Dolly Kleppin of Topeka, KS; 5 grandchildren, Jory, Tasha, Kody, Korey and Taylor; 7 great-grandchildren; a niece, Stacy Graf of Topeka, KS; a nephew, Chad Kleppin of Topeka, KS and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

          Eva requested no formal services-her family is honoring her request. She will lie in state at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton beginning Wednesday afternoon, December 27, 2017. A private family graveside service will be in the Horton Cemetery where she will be laid to rest next to her husband, Paul. Memorials may be given to Topeka Shawnee Special Olympics 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.

Sue Steffen, 91, of rural Humboldt, Nebraska passed away on Sunday, December 24, 2017, at her home in rural Humboldt, Nebraska.

Born:  April 20, 1926 in rural Dawson, Nebraska
Died:  December 24, 2017 in rural Humboldt, Nebraska

Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 29, 2017, at the Starr Cemetery east of Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastors Dorothy Smith and Jaclyn Hoy officiating.
      
A register book will be available to sign from 9a.m.-5 p.m. on Thursday, December 28, 2017, at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska.

A luncheon and time of fellowship will be held immediately following the committal service at the United Methodist Church in Humboldt.   

Memorials contributions may be given to the family’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.wherrymortuary.com

Wherry Mortuary-207 N. Nemaha ST., Humboldt, Nebraska (402) 862-2915

Bobby Joe Frealy was born the son of Eugene Stanley Frealy and Maggie Faye (Tyner) Frealy on July 5, 1924, in Camden, Arkansas, and departed this life on December 24, 2017 at the age of 93.

He was united in marriage on June 22, 1946 to Lenora Cotham, who preceded him in death on February 2, 2002.

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Lou Area and son-in-law Jack Area, Topeka, KS, granddaughter, Kristina Rottler (Nathan), Topeka, grandson, Robert W. Area, Colorado, ten great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Maggie Frealy; five brothers, Eugene, Austin, David, Bill and Jackie Frealy; and four sisters, Mary Lou Tourigny, Faye Frealy, Betty Scharff and Alice Frealy.

Bob joined the Navy in January of 1942, where he served with the South Pacific Fleet on the U.S.S. Portland during World War II.  He was a life member of the Holton V.F.W. and American Legion, a former president of the Vet's Club, and was a Bingo caller for many years.

After the war, most of his life he worked in the timber and sawmill business.  He enjoyed life, loved his family and appreciated all of his friends, especially his card playing buddies.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 28th at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Holton.  Burial with military honors will follow in the Holton Cemetery.  Bob will lie in state at the funeral home where family and friends will meet from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday.  Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 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

Ann G. Kaster, 59, of DuBois, Nebraska died on December 23, 2017 at the Pawnee County Memorial Hospital.

Ann was born in Seneca, Kansas on July 27, 1958 to Mienrad J. and Joan G. Haug Bergman.  Ann attended school in Baileyville and graduated from B & B with the Class of 1977.  Ann attended Manhattan Vo-Tech.

Ann married Ronald L. Kaster on April 16, 1977 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Baileyville. For 27 years she was employed by Nemaha County Head Start.  She sat on the Board and attended National Conventions.  Ann also sold Avon in her later years.

Ann was a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and grandmother---she loved spending quality time with her grandchildren.  In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing, gardening, crafts, traveling & cooking Reading, butterflies, angels, stars, and porcelain dolls also brought joy to Ann’s heart.  She appreciated nature and riding with her husband on his motorcycle.  She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

She was preceded in death by her father, Mienrad on February 15, 1978; an infant brother Joseph in 1963; and a nephew, Jeremy Siess on April 29, 2006.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Ron of the home; sons, David (Heather) Kaster of Wymore, Nebraska and Daniel Kaster of Morrill, Kansas; a daughter, Sara (Adam Sumner) Kaster of Topeka; her mother, Joan Ward of Seneca; a brother, Michael Bergman of Baileyville; sisters, Beth Siess of Seneca, Mary Winkler of Seneca; Teresa Skoch of Topeka and Julie Arnold of Kansas City; and grandchildren,  Evan and Harper Kaster of Wymore, Nebraska and Madison, Shelbi, Hannah and Hunter Kaster of Syracuse, Nebraska.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 29th from 6- 7:30PM at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.  Funeral Services will be held at Lauer Funeral Home at 10:30AM on Saturday, December 30, 2017.  Burial will be in the DuBois Cemetery.

Memorials will be designated according to the wishes of the family.

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

  Ruth (Starlin) Wolken, 87, of Tecumseh, Nebraska was born to Charles and Wilma (Wright) Starlin on December 31, 1929 at the family home in rural Vesta, Nebraska.  She was raised in Vesta in a house called the “Carter Place” which was known as being haunted.  It had a cast iron stove that Ruth would fry bird eggs on.  In her early years, she attended grade school in Vesta and graduated from Tecumseh High School with the class of 1947.  Ruth worked for a Tecumseh florist, was a fry cook, and retired from Lincoln Telephone Company.  On April 23, 1983, she was united in marriage to David Wolken at the First Baptist Church in Tecumseh, Nebraska.  Ruth was a loving mother, grandmother, and wife.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Tecumseh and in her spare time enjoyed traveling, camping, spending time with her family, and playing BINGO at the fair.

   When her health began to decline, Ruth became a resident of Belle Terrace in Tecumseh, Nebraska and passed away there on Saturday, December 23, 2017, having reached the age of eighty-seven years, eleven months, and twenty-three days. 

   She is survived by her husband David Wolken of Tecumseh, NE; daughter Lynn Buss and husband Frank of Gretna, NE; 4 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; a brother Mel Starlin of  Lincoln, NE; David’s children:  Vickie Wenzl and husband Roger of Lincoln, NE; Dave Wolken and wife Karen of Tecumseh, NE; Jerry Wolken and wife Jeanne of Lincoln, NE; 8 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Cherie Starlin of Omaha, NE; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

  Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Glen and Les Starlin, a sister Anna May Starlin, and David’s daughter Lori Wolken.

  Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, December 27, 2017, at the First Baptist Church in Tecumseh, Nebraska with Rev. Hugh Giesbrecht officiating.  Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 26, 2017, at the Wherry Mortuary in Tecumseh, Nebraska.  Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary.  Interment will be in the Vesta Cemetery, rural Tecumseh, Nebraska.  Memorials may go the First Baptist Church or Tecumseh Aquatic Association for the new swimming pool.  Online messages of condolence can be shared at www.wherrymortuary.com.  Services are entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-202 3rd St., Tecumseh, Nebraska 68450 (402) 335-2921.  

Joseph J. “Joe” Bowness, 88, Mound City, Missouri passed away Saturday, December 23, 2017.

He was born April 8, 1929 to James and Leda (Fries) Bowness.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. Oswalds Episcopal Church near rural Skidmore, Missouri.

Joe graduated from Bellevue High School in 1947 and graduated from The University of Missouri. He served in the U.S. Navy for four years.

On January 26, 1974 he married Dorilee Tiemeyer. She survives of the home.

He was a lifelong farmer who enjoyed traveling and Navy reunions with friends.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, James William; and infant sister.

Additional survivors include brother, Phillip Bowness (Joan); nephews, James Bowness (Angie), and Kevin Bowness; niece, Christina Webster (Kevin); and 7 great-nieces and great-nephews.

Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, Pettijohn & Crawford Family Funeral Service. Interment New Liberty Cemetery, Mound City, Missouri.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, Pettijohn & Crawford Family Funeral Service. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to First Lutheran Church, Rock Port, Missouri or a charity of their choice. Online guest book and obituary at www.pettijohncrawford.com.

Ruby Lee Hottman, 85, of Holton, KS passed away Saturday, December 23, 2017 at her home. She was born January 1, 1932 in Fillmore, MO the daughter of Charles and D. Katherine (Mink) Bowles.

          Ruby graduated from Atchison High School in 1950. She had lived for over 50 years in the Holton community and previously in Netawaka. Ruby worked for Slimaker Dress Factory for 10 years and she was a Restorative Aide, Certified Nurse Aide and Activities Director at Jackson County Nursing Home for 20 years.

          She was a member of Larkinburg Christian Church, Larkinburg Ladies Aide, Order of Eastern Star in Whiting, Democrat Association and Jackson County Historical Society.

          Ruby married Ray Melvin Hottman on January 27, 1950 in Atchison. He survives of the home. Other survivors include 3 daughters, Rhonda Hottman of Northridge, CA, Becky Newman (Keith) of Raymore, MO and Tina Brand (Steve) of Omaha, NE; a sister, Lurena Hansen formerly of Atchison, KS; 7 grandchildren, Eric Newman (Lynn), Daniel Newman (Brandie), Isaac Newman, Angela Ingram (Tim), Sanci Beth Toledo (Dalton), Chase Geer and Brandon Geer; 11 great-grandchildren and 2 sister-in-laws, Pat Bowles of Lancaster, KS and Eleanor Hottman of Horton, KS.

          She was preceded in death by 2 infant sons, Arthur Norman Hottman and Ricky Lee Hottman; a sister, Frances Hurst and a brother, Bill Bowles.

          Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Springhill Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Larkinburg Christian Church or O.E.S. 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.

Leona Mae Bleier, 84, of Holton, KS passed away Friday, December 22, 2017 at her home. She was born July 3, 1933 in Goff, KS the daughter of Dwight E. and Nola (Clelland) Glenn.

          Leona graduated from Washburn Rural High School in 1951. She lived in the Holton community for over 50 years. She worked for the Kansas State Bank in Holton for 27 years and served as a bank officer. Leona was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Holton and held many positions at the church, including Sunday school teacher. She was also a member of the Violet Club in Holton.

          She married Larry Dean Bleier on February 5, 1955 in Topeka. He preceded her in death on July 12, 2010.

          Survivors include 2 sons, David Bleier (Cheryl) of Parkville, MO and Daniel Bleier (Teresa) of Oklahoma City, OK; 2 daughters, Julie Shaw (Jeff) of Ozawkie, KS and Jill Bleier of Holton, KS; a sister, Mary Jane Oberhelman of Topeka; a brother, Dwight E. Glenn of Wichita, KS; 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

          Memorial Services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 30, 2017 at the First Baptist Church in Holton. The family will greet friends for one hour prior to the service in the fellowship hall at the church. Memorials may be given to the Holton Community Hospital Hospice or Heart of Jackson Humane Society c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, visitwww.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Leona Mae Bleier, 84, of Holton, KS passed away Friday, December 22, 2017 at her home. She was born July 3, 1933 in Goff, KS the daughter of Dwight E. and Nola (Clelland) Glenn.

          Leona graduated from Washburn Rural High School in 1951. She lived in the Holton community for over 50 years. She worked for the Kansas State Bank in Holton for 27 years and served as a bank officer. Leona was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Holton and held many positions at the church, including Sunday school teacher. She was also a member of the Violet Club in Holton.

          She married Larry Dean Bleier on February 5, 1955 in Topeka. He preceded her in death on July 12, 2010.

          Survivors include 2 sons, David Bleier (Cheryl) of Parkville, MO and Daniel Bleier (Teresa) of Oklahoma City, OK; 2 daughters, Julie Shaw (Jeff) of Ozawkie, KS and Jill Bleier of Holton, KS; a sister, Mary Jane Oberhelman of Topeka; a brother, Dwight E. Glenn of Wichita, KS; 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

          Memorial Services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 30, 2017 at the First Baptist Church in Holton. The family will greet friends for one hour prior to the service in the fellowship hall at the church. Memorials may be given to the Holton Community Hospital Hospice or Heart of Jackson Humane Society c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, visitwww.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Mary Elizabeth "Doodle" Watts, 96, formerly of White Cloud, Kansas, went to be with the Lord Jesus on December 21, 2017 at the Highland Healthcare and Rehab Center.

Mary was born on October 8, 1921 on her parents farm south of White Cloud, Kansas. She was the last child born to George and Ella (Putroff) Taylor. She married Edward "Bud" Watts on August 10, 1940 at the Brown County Courthouse in Hiawatha, Kansas.

Mary was a lifetime member of the White Cloud Community Christian Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward "Bud", son, George Watts and son-in-law Claude "Butch" Collins.

Surviving children are a daughter, Sharon Collins of Highland, Kansas, a son, James and wife Jackie Watts of Highland, Kansas, daughter, Linda and husband Richard "Dick" Maris of White Cloud, Kansas. Mary also is survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at the White Cloud Community Christian Church where the family will greet friends from 10:00 A.M. until service time. Burial will be at the Olive Branch Cemetery in White Cloud, Kansas.

Memorials may be made to the Olive Branch Cemetery and may be sent in care of the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

John Dean Rakestraw, age 69 of Nebraska City passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2017 at the Community Memorial Hospital in Syracuse, NE. 

He was born on October 20, 1948 in Nebraska City, NE; the son of Wilbur and Ruth Irene (McCord) Rakestraw.  He graduated from Falls City High School with the class of 1967. 

On January 19, 1974 John was united in marriage to Deborah K. Davis in Nemaha, NE and to this union two children were born:  Ronald and Joni.  John worked at Wyuka Cemetery in Nebr. City and in 1976 joined the Nebraska City Police Department and served as a police officer for 28 years.  He retired in 2004 as a Sergeant on the force.  After his retirement he worked for the Otoe County Sheriff’s Office as a Dispatcher.  He was a member of the National Fraternal Order of Police. 

John is survived by his wife Deborah Rakestraw of Nebr. City; two children:  Ronald Rakestraw and significant other Summer Warren of Nebr. City and Joni Rakestraw of Nebr. City; three grandchildren:  AJ Rakestraw, Averly Rakestraw and Stevie Rakestraw; sister Jo Sperline and husband Ronnie of Morrill, KS; numerous nieces and nephews; other family and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings:  Ruth Ann Tisdel and Wilbur Charles Rakestraw. 

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at Gude Mortuary with Fr. James Morin officiating.  Burial will be held in the Wyuka Cemetery at a later date. 

The family will greet friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday (12/26) at the mortuary. 

Remembrances may be left at www.gudefuneralhomes.com. 

Gude Mortuary in Nebr. City is in charge of arrangements. 

Mabel Pettinger, 93 of Steinauer, Nebraska passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2017 at Premier Estates in Pawnee City, Nebraska. She was born on April 24, 1924 to Michael and Anna (Gyhra) Pettinger and was the youngest of the family.

Her schooling took place at St. Anthony’s Catholic grade school and graduated from Steinauer high school in 1942.  After graduation Mabel choose to remain on the family farm to help her brother Frank with the farm work and livestock.  This arrangement lasted until her brother passed away in 2004.  Frank and Mabel took care of their mother for years, prior to entry into the nursing home.  Mabel enjoyed the outdoors, most of all the cattle.  Her other enjoyments and interests in her life were crocheting, embroidering, puzzles, reading and her cats.

Mabel also served on the Clear Creek precinct election board for several terms.  Mabel was a lifelong member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Steinauer, Nebraska.

Mabel was preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Anna Pettinger, sisters and brothers-in-law, Myra and Leonard Reuter, Anna and Allen Murphy, Agatha and Reese Roberts, Lloyd Botchlet, brothers and sisters-in-law, Michael and Ruth Pettinger, Frank Pettinger, one nephew and two nieces.

Mabel is survived by her sister Florence Botchlet of Bethany, OK, 18 nieces and  nephews and other relatives.

Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Steinauer, Nebraska.  Officiating Father Michael Christensen.  Visitation on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Rosary at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Steinauer, Nebraska. Interment at St. Anthony’s Catholic Cemetery, Steinauer, Nebraska.  Memorials to family choice.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Jackie Dale “Jack” Dorrell, 81, husband, father, and avid sports fan died peacefully at his home in Bendena, Kansas, December 19, 2017.

He was born February 27, 1936 to Russell and Hazel Dorrell on a farm near Highland, Kansas.

Jack attended various county schools with his mother as his teacher. He graduated from Highland High School where he was a charter member of the FFA and enjoyed participating in football, basketball and track where he developed a love of sports that would continue throughout his lifetime. Upon graduation he attended Highland Community College before joining the Navy in 1955. Jack served his country for four years spending time on the USS Hancock and the USS Philippine Sea.

Jack and Rosalie Ramseier were married on November 29, 1958 and enjoyed 59 years together, first making their home in San Diego, California. Upon completion of his service, they moved to Topeka, Kansas, where Jack began honing his skills at a milling company. A transfer took him and Rosalie to Kansas City where they made their home in Gladstone, Missouri. While in Kansas City he worked for various contractors continuing to learn the building trade. Wanting to return to the area, in 1967 the family moved to a farm near Severance where he farmed for several years. However, the building trade had made a strong impact, and in 1974 he started Jack Dorrell Construction building many houses in the Doniphan County area. It wasn’t uncommon for many to refer to their home as the House that Jack built. Later Jack would return to working in Kansas City making the daily trek from their home in Bendena from 1984 until his retirement in 2010.

Jack loved his grand children and was so proud of them. He eagerly attended all their activities whether athletic, musical, or theatrical. Most nights he could be seen cheering on the Mustangs, Blue Jays, or Wildcats. Later as his children attend K-State, he became a die-hard fan enjoying tailgating and attending games. It was always a family affair.

Jack was a member of Highland Masonic Lodge #1 and a 4-H leader for 46 years. During that time he made many lifelong friends at the livestock shows and traveled with his children and grandchildren across the nation hauling cattle to the Jr. Hereford Nationals. He loved an adventure and in 2004 purchased Poppin’ J kettle corn.

Jack is survived by his wife, Rosalie, sons Gregory (Robin), Buckley, WA; Gary (Karen), Highland; daughters Jacqueline (Jeff) Coleman, Atchison; Jennifer (Taylor) Gatz, Sabetha; grandchildren Allie Barger, Megan Dorrell, Ashely Wann, Sarah Roney, Daija Coleman, Katelyn and Allen Dorrell, Jordan, Lauren, and McKenna Gatz, and six great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Jack’s life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, at the Highland Methodist-Presbyterian Church, with Pastor Jerry Petering officiating. Masonic committal services will be a courtesy of Smithton Lodge #1, AF&AM, of Highland. Burial will follow at the Highland Cemetery, with military honors a courtesy of the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 10 a.m. Friday, where the family will meet from 6 until 8 that evening.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Doniphan County 4H Program or Denton United Methodist Church, sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33, Highland 66035.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Mary K. Huppert, 67, of Falls City, NE, passed away December 19, 2017 at Falls City. She was born October 12, 1950 at Kansas City, MO to Thomas and Mildred (Froeschl) Sullivan.

She married Jerry Huppert on September 26, 1970 at Rulo, NE and they were later divorced.

Mary K. was raised at Falls City and graduated Sacred Heart High School in 1968. She then graduated St. Mary’s College of Nursing at Kansas City with and LPN. She returned to Falls City and worked at Community Medical Center for three years. She worked at Falls City Care Center/Health Care Community for twenty years and then for Dr. Tramp for eight years. She retired in 2015 due to her health. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and Falls City Housing Authority Board.

Mary K. is survived by her significant other, Raymond Eickhoff of Falls City, children, Ann Mason and her husband Jarred of Stella, NE, Nancy Meyer and her husband Paul of Auburn, NE, Mike Huppert and his significant other Myriah Gerdes of Falls City, Megan Huppert of Falls City, Brian Huppert and his wife Ashley of Lincoln, NE, brothers, Terry Sullivan and his wife Nancy of Jacksonville, FL, Bob Sullivan and his wife Jomary of Scottsdale, AZ, sister, Marcia Sullivan of Lincoln, twelve grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, Raymond’s children, Travis Eickhoff of Lincoln and Robert Eickhoff of Shubert. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Tom Sullivan, sister, Jean Simonson and her twin brother, David in infancy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 23, 2017 at 10:30 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 6:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. The family will receive friends following the rosary.

 LeAnna Edeleen (Sodmann) Frank, daughter of Edward and Alma (Rockemann) Sodmann was born July 17, 1927 near Humboldt, Nebraska on the family farm.  She attended Greenfield rural school in Nemaha County, graduated from Bratton Union High School and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Peru State College.  She did post-graduate study at UNL and UNK.  LeAnna taught rural schools in Nemaha, Richardson and Pawnee County and then taught first grade for 28 years at Elk Creek until retiring and then did substitute teachings for another 10 years for a teaching career of 45 years.

   LeAnna was married to Loraine “Johnny” Frank on Easter Sunday, April 10, 1955 at the St. James Lutheran Church by interim Pastor H.A. Kolm. The couple lived at Pawnee City for two years and then moved to the farm near Humboldt in 1957 where LeAnna grew up.  To this union two daughters were born.

  Along with elementary school teaching, LeAnna taught Sunday School, assisted with Bible School, served on the Board of Parish Education, as church librarian, and was co-editor of the History and Membership Directory for the Church’s 125th anniversary.  She served as a 4-H Leader for 20 years. LeAnna as a member of the Nebraska State Education Association, the local education association and Falls City Area Retired Teacher’s Association.  She was nominated as an Outstanding Elementary Teacher by her Superintendent, for which she received recognition in 1972.  In 1998, she was nominated by a former student to receive recognition in “Who’s Who Among American Teachers.”  LeAnna was always very proud of the accomplishments of former students.

  LeAnna loved sewing and all types of craft work.  After retirement from teaching she did many wood crafting and tole painting projects, making gifts for numerous occasions.  She made many quilt tops for use at church as well for each of her children and grandchildren.  Her family was her greatest pleasure. 

  LeAnna became a resident at Gold Crest Retirement Center in Adams in August of 2016.  Her husband Loraine “Johnny” passed away February 27, 2017. LeAnna joined him in heaven on December 19, 2017. 

  She is survived by her daughters, Lorinda Stoddard and husband Mick of Custer, SD and Lynette Tegtmeier and husband Mark of Burchard, four grandchildren, Stacey Stoddard, Amanda Shelton and husband Zach, Erica Roth and husband Dan and Kyle Gottula and fiance’ Mary Schram and son Tucker, great-grandchildren, Elliott and Norah Roth, sisters , ElDonna Jager and husband Peter of Colorado Springs, CO and Willa Jean Stutheit of Johnson, brother-in-law, Leland Frank and wife Imogene of Humboldt and many nieces, nephews and friends. 

  LeAnna was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Loraine “Johnny”, grandson, Jacob Stoddard, son-in-law, Alton Gottula, brothers-in-law, Dalen Kracke, Herbert Stutheit and Richard Alden and niece and God-child, Pamela (Kracke) Piper.                                                        

   Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 23, 2017 at the St. James Lutheran (Long Branch) Church, rural Humboldt, Nebraska with Rev. Eric and Amalia Spruth-Janssen officiating.  Visitation will be at the Wherry Mortuary in Tecumseh, Nebraska, Friday, December 22, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m.   Memorials may go to the family’s choice.  Inurnment will be in the St. James Lutheran (Long Branch) Cemetery, rural Humboldt, Nebraska at a later date.   Online condolences may be left @ www.wherrymortuary.com.

Rosie Mabrey, 36, of Hiawatha, died unexpectedly Monday morning, December 18, 2017, in Topeka.

She was born July 1, 1981, in Hiawatha, the daughter of David and LaDonna Hall Moore and had lived in Hiawatha nearly all of her life. She grew up here where she attended school. Through the years, Rosie worked at a variety of jobs including Sonic. In recent years, she was a transitional living specialist for RCIL in Topeka.

Rosie married Darryl Mabrey June 28, 2008. He survives of the home, as well as, a son Jagert.

Other survivors include her mother LaDonna Moore, sisters D’Angel, Shelly and partner Erika, all of Topeka; with many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father David Moore; brother James; nephews Trenton; Grandmother Barbara Hall; cousin Rachelle Dailing.

Services are planned for 2 p.m. Friday, December 22, 2017, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha. Pastor Rich Lehmkuhl will officiate. Interment will follow at Hiawatha Cemetery.

The family will meet with friends 6 until 7 Thursday evening, and a half hour prior to services Friday.

Memorial contributions are suggested to a scholarship fund to be set up for her son Jagert, sent in care of the funeral home.

NOTE: In honor of Rosie, the family asks everyone to wear purple.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Jay Glen Fraser, 65, of Holton, died Monday, December 18, 2017 after being transported to the Holton Community Hospital.

He was born September 14, 1952 at Hiawatha, the son of Glen and Nancy Ham Fraser.  He graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1970.  After high school he served five years in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Sea Dragon, a nuclear submarine based out of Pearl Harbor.

Jay had worked as a concrete truck driver, most recently for Concrete Supply in Holton.

He married Wanda Fraser in 1988.  They were divorced.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, his mom in 2013 and his dad in August of this year.

Survivors include a son, Chris Fraser, Ellenwood, GA; two brothers, David Wynn Fraser, Holton and Timothy Lynn Fraser, Hiawatha; and a sister, Jennifer Shaw and husband Bruce, Holton.

Cremation is planned.  Memorials are suggested to Heart of Jackson Humane Society, and may be sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1034, Holton, 66436. On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Marcella Arvilla Hershberger Niedfeldt, formerly of Falls City, NE, passed away on December 18, 2017 at Lincoln, NE. She was born in Fargo, ND, to the late Swan (Svante Neander Nilssen) Nelson and Alice Isobel (Higgins) Nelson of Moorhead, MN.

On November 1, 1941 she married Charles Hershberger in Moorhead, MN.  He passed away March 26, 1988. On July 21, 1990 she married Albert Niedfeldt in Falls City. He passed away June 25, 2010.

Marcella was raised on the home farm outside of Moorhead, MN and graduated from Moorhead High School. In addition to being a farm wife southeast of Falls City she was employed at the Falls City Creamery, Johnson Insurance Company and the office of William Farmer, M.D. She was a member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, six miles north of Falls City, Lutheran Women’s Missionary League. She was an active member of Order of the Eastern Star (OES) Chapter 254, Rulo, NE, and Chapter 234, Humboldt, NE, BPOE DOES Drove 56, Falls City, and True Homemakers Extension Club, rural Falls City.   

She is survived by son, Larry (Janice) Hershberger, Tecumseh; daughter, Charlotte Nedrow, Waverly; grandchildren: Stephanie (Kevin) Swanson, Syracuse; Michelle Hershberger, Westwood, KS; Heather (Marvin) Rubenking, Waverly; great-grandchildren: Caden and Carley Rubenking, Waverly, Quincey and Kaleb Swanson, Syracuse; and Albert’s surviving children Bill Niedfeldt, Shubert; Tom (Kathy) Niedfeldt, Falls City; Anita (Dan) Zichek, Lincoln; Barbara (Cletus) Benes, Raymond; and grand-and great- grandchildren. Marcella is also survived by a brother, Leonard (Charlotte) Nelson, Moorhead, MN; sister-in-law, Marjorie Nelson, Moorhead, MN; nieces, nephews and numerous friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, husbands, brother, Morris Nelson, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Norman and Marjorie Herschberger, grandson, Michael Hershberger and son-in-law, Larry Nedrow.

Funeral services will be held at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home, Falls City, on Friday, December 22, 2017 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Paul Weinert officiating. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

The family will receive friends one hour before service at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Order of the Eastern Star, Chapter 234, BPOE DOES, Dove 56 and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, six miles north.

Robert O. Halling, 97, formerly of Denton, Kansas died Monday, December 18, 2017 at Vintage Park of Atchison.

Mass of Christian burial will be Friday, December 22, 2017 at 2:30 P.M. at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, Bendena, Kansas with Rev. Francis Bakyor as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Benedict’s Church Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Friday, December 22nd from 1:30 until 2:30 P.M. at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict’s Catholic Church at Bendena and may be left in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home, 208 North 5th Street, Atchison, Kansas 66002. Final care has been entrusted to Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Robert was born October 8, 1920 at his parent’s home in rural Denton, Kansas the son of Bernard and Julia Horsh Halling. He attended Maur Hill Prep School in Atchison,graduating in 1938.

Robert was engaged in farming in the Denton and Bendena, Kansas area all of his adult life until his retirement. He also enjoyed carpentry work and made several pieces of furniture for his home.

He and S. Virginia Dutton were united in marriage on October 12, 1948 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church at Bendena, Kansas. Mrs. Halling preceded him in death on July 7, 1998.

Robert served in the United States Army during World War II with the European Theater Operations. He began his service on August 21, 1942 and served until his honorable discharge on September 11, 1945 as a Sargent.

He was a life-long member of St. Benedict’s Catholic Church at Bendena, Kansas where he formerly served as a lector, church council member, member of the church choir and for two years he was the church “handyman”. He also served as a Denton volunteer fireman for thirty years, fourteen year member of the Denton City Council and a life-long Farm Bureau member.

Robert is survived by a son, Robert F. (DeeAnna) Halling, Bendena, KS; a daughter, Linda (Ron) Chambers, Harrisonville, MO; a brother, John (Dorothy) Halling, Denton, KS; two sisters, Annie Cipriano, Yorktown, VA; Addie Walters, Olathe, KS; ten grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son, Michael Halling, four brothers, Barney, Pete, Luke and Joseph Halling and four sisters, Irene Halling, Lucille Haupt, Betty Johnson and Julie Ann Elias.

Wilma Jane (Cormode) Hawk, formerly of Effingham, passed away on December 16, 2017, at the Apostolic Christian Nursing Home in Sabetha, KS.

Visitation will be held at the Effingham Union Church on Friday, December 22 from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. with interment in the Effingham Evergreen Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Effingham Union Church or the Alzheimer’s Association and may be left in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Wilma was born on June 6, 1926, in Atchison, the daughter of William Grant and Clara (Stutz) Cormode of Farmington. She was raised on a farm 2 miles south and 1 ¼ miles east of Lancaster. The family did diversified crop farming and raised cattle, hogs, and sheep.

Wilma attended Cain Grade School and graduated from ACCHS in 1943. After graduation she worked in the office at Blair Milling, Atchison, before accepting the position of secretary to the principal of ACCHS. She later served as Deputy County Treasurer.

On February 14, 1946, Wilma and her high school sweetheart, Wilson S. Hawk, were married at her parents’ home in Lancaster. They resided in Effingham for 51 years. In 1956, Wilma assisted her husband in opening and operating the Effingham Livestock Auction as well as Hawk Auction Service. She worked in the family businesses for 18 years as the office manager. After selling the sale barn, she continued to assist her husband in their farm and household auction business, cashiering all types of auctions until their retirement in 1992. During their retirement, they enjoyed traveling and spending winters at their Texas home.

Wilma was active in many community organizations, including being a 50-year member of the Rebekah Lodge, 48’ers Club, Sara Circle of the Effingham Union Church, Kansas Auctioneers Wives, and VFW Auxiliary. In addition, she, Wilson, and their children were very active in 4-H. Wilma received the Friend of 4-H and the C.E. Sells awards. She clerked the 4-H Livestock Auction for many years.

Survivors include her children, Saralee (Daniel) Sanchez, Harlingen, TX, Melody (Walter) Elsworth, Pretty Prairie, KS, Clifford W. Hawk, Highland, KS, and Traci (William) Rahe, Morrill, KS. Also surviving are granddaughter, Dawn (Leslie) Reynoso, Olathe, KS, grandson, Taylor (Candice) Rahe, Smith Center, KS, and great-granddaughters, Breanna and Brooklyn Reynoso, Olathe, KS.

Wilma was preceded in death by her husband, Wilson, July 16, 1997, infant daughter, Clara Pauline, June 14, 1949, her parents, and sister, Sarah K. Jensen.

Leonard Anthony Winkelbauer, 93, of Horton, Kansas passed away Sunday, December 17, 2017 at the Mission Village Living Center, in Horton, Kansas.

He was born on October 29, 1924 in Horton, Kansas the son of Robert and Christina (Bickelmeier) Winkelbauer.

Leonard graduated from Horton High School in 1942, and joined the army in 1943, serving in Europe during WWII. Following discharge he married Wilma Schuetz on August 7, 1946 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Mercier, Kansas.

Leonard was a member of St. Leo’s Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, VFW, and American Legion Post 7.

He is survived by two sons Reverend Phillip Winkelbauer of Leavenworth, Kansas; Leland (Sandi) Winkelbauer of Topeka, Kansas; one daughter Colette Winkelbauer, Lawrence, Kansas; one brother Cyril Winkelbauer of Horton, Kansas; two sisters-in-law, Rita Winkelbauer, Horton, Kansas and Patricia Christie, Topeka, Kansas; two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 69 years, a son, Bruce; three brothers and three sisters.

The mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, December 21, 2017, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Leo’s Catholic Church in Horton, Kansas. A rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas where family will greet friends following the rosary. Burial will be at St. Leo’s Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St Leo’s Cemetery or NEK Multi County Home Health and Hospice. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com.

Roberta “Bert” Morrison, 54, of Baileyville lost her battle against cancer on Friday, December 15, 2017 at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital.

The youngest of five children; Roberta Jean Farley was born on May 25, 1963 at the Onaga Hospital to Wilbur D. and Joyce Coverdale Farley.  She grew up in the Corning Community and learned the importance of hard work and being frugal at an early age from her parents. 

She attended Centralia High School; receiving recognition for volleyball and participation on the State Track team.  Her mother died tragically while Roberta was still in high school.  Her senior year Roberta lived with her Uncle Elmer and her Aunt JoAnn Farley; she graduated with the Class of 1981.

At the tender age of 18, Roberta joined the work force and was employed for CR (Chicago Rawhide) Industries; currently known as SKF.  For twelve years she worked at the seal plant, until May of 1993 when she quit to pursue the field of nursing. Roberta loved to be busy and in her youth, could often be found working behind the bar at Four Corners Bar and the Soldier Bar.

As a Certified Nurses’ Aide (C.N.A.), Roberta was known for her attention to detail and her work ethic.  She began her career at Eastridge Nursing Home.  She obtained her status as a Rehabilitative Aide from Manhattan Area Technical Center on April 30, 1994; and her Medication Aide Certificate (C.M.A.)  from Highland Community College December 20, 1995.  She left Eastridge February of 1995; when she began working at Cambridge Assisted Living in Marysville as a CMA.  Roberta worked a short time for Three Rivers helping Kevin Holthaus in the mornings. She began her employment at Crestview, initially working nights in 1995.

Roberta quickly proved herself as a dynamic employee at Crestview and in 2000 was elevated to a leadership position as the Restorative Program Coordinator and Medical Records.  Roberta was a valued leader and organized employee. She truly cared for the residents she served and helped out whenever and wherever she was most needed.  She was an excellent spokesperson for Crestview both cheering on her co-workers and advocating for the residents.  She was extremely knowledgeable and always took the time to pass on her years of vast practical experiences to others. Roberta suffered a stroke on September 23, 2017 and was on medical leave at the time of her death.

Roberta eloped with John Morrison, Sr and the couple was married on May 31, 1995 in Clarksville, Tennessee.    John had two children from a previous marriage, John Jr. and Janet; but Roberta loved and cared for them as if they were her own.   Roberta’s pride and joy were her grandchildren, she was so very proud of each and every one of them and their accomplishments.  She spent numerous hours with them enjoying helping them with crafts, painting and teaching them how to build small projects. She always made it a priority to attend their school events and ballgames.   Every summer John and Roberta set up a swimming pool that the grandkids could enjoy. It was important to Roberta to create special memories with her grandchildren, memories that they would cherish for a lifetime.  

Roberta was very capable with her hands and understood mechanics.  She remodeled her first home, learning along the way, doing most of the work herself.  John and Roberta purchased a 1900s farm house which they pain steakingly restored back to its original glory; which she kept meticulously.   She treasured old furniture which she loved to bring back to its original beauty to fill her home.   

Roberta used her artistical abilities to create beautiful quilts for her family and fund raisers.  She loved to see what her could create on a shoestring budget, often just using up old fabrics. Roberta appreciated a good -time and never met a stranger.  She relished sitting around the campfire, cooking on an open fire and enjoying a Red Beer.  She loved spending time with good friends; and for many years hosted a Memorial Weekend Party.  When it came to travel and vacations Roberta was always ready to go; as long as it did not involve air travel.  She enjoyed traveling with Beav and Deb Koch, in their motor home. Not necessarily hoping to make it rich but rather just something to pass the time, she enjoyed going to the Casino.

Roberta was preceded in death by her parents, Joyce on November 29, 1980 and Wilbur on June 21, 1991; two infant siblings, Chris D. on June 6, 1960 and Rhonda J. on June 13, 1966; and her brother, Charles A. Farley on December 15, 2011.

Roberta leaves behind her husband of 22 years, John; children, John (Becca) Morrison Jr of Centralia and Janet (Brad Haug) Morrison of Vermillion; grandchildren, Kyle Morrison, Abigail Brucken, Reagan Morrison, Aiden Caffrey, Trey Morrison and Hailey Strathman; sisters, Rosemary (Walter) Junod of Soldier and Rosalie Cecil of Holton; and a brother Carl Farley of Soldier.

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 18, 2017 from 6-8 PM at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca, Kansas.  Funeral Services will be Tuesday, December 19th at 11 AM at Lauer Funeral Home.  Burial will be in the Baileyville City Cemetery.

Memorials may be left in Roberta’s name to C.O.I.N.S. for a cause.

Angela Agnes Haverkamp Devillier, 95 years and 10 months, of St. Mary’s, Kansas, passed from this life to eternal life on Saturday morning December 16, 2107 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka.

Angela was born on February 17, 1922 on a farm northwest of St. Benedict, Kansas the eldest child of John F. and Theresa Olberding Haverkamp. She spent her early childhood years in the St. Benedict Area.

When she entered the sixth grade, the family moved to Fidelity, Kansas. She graduated from the Fidelity Parochial grade school and then went on to attended the Fairview high School.

In her Junior year the family moved back to St. Benedict. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School in St. Benedict in 1940. Following high school graduation, she entered St. Anthony Murdoch Memorial School of Nursing and graduated as a Registered Nurse. She was employed in the Seneca Hospital and St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, before joining the U.S. Army

During her time in the Army, she met the love of her life, Russell DeVillier. They were married September 4, 1946 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict by Rev. Cyril Bayer, O.S.B. In 2006, they were married 60 years. Russell passed away. Following their marriage, they moved to Emporia, Kansas where Angela was employed by Newman Memorial Hospital while her husband completed his education Degree.

Honesty, humility, generosity, perseverance and hard work were the guiding principles of her life. She worked hard on the farm with her sister Cecilia, in the early years. She helped raise her younger siblings and was always there to lend a helping hand to others.

Angel was a decorated daughter, sister, wife, mother and a grandmother. She was a school nurse at several schools in Kansas meeting the health care needs of the school children. Her first assignment was serving as a Librarian at the Wetmore Schools 1975 to 1983.

She was preceded in death by her husband Russell on December 12, 2006, a daughter Jane Davida DeVillier in 1966. Three brothers John Henry Haverkamp in 1926, Kenneth A. Haverkamp in 2006 and Lillis Haverkamp in 2012.

Besides the inspiration from her faith, Angela derived great satisfaction from her family. She is survived by four children and their spouses, Dr. James(Jodi) DeVillier of Roxboro, North Carolina, Stephen DeVillier of Lawrence, Eugene (Cheryl) Devillier of Wellsville and Lorraine (Mitch) Poell of Lenexa. 7 grandchildren, David (Alicia) Poell, Lauren Poell, Phillip (Katie) DeVillier, Paul DeVillier, Stephanie DeVillier, Charles DeVillier and Catherine DeVillier.

She is also survived by her siblings Cecilia Kohake of Sabetha, John Haverkamp of Seneca, Luella Curti of Seneca, John J. Haverkamp of Seneca and Henrietta Dressman of Baileyville.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 &7 PM Thursday, December 21st at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM Friday, December 22, 2017, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict.

Memorials may be given in Angela’s memory to the St. Mary’s Cemetery, and sent in care of the family.

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

Cynthia R. “Cindy” Stewart, 55, of Atchison KS died unexpectedly on Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017 at the Atchison Hospital.

Memorial services will be 6:30 pm on Thursday, Dec. 21st, 2017 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with visitation to follow. Burial of cremated remains will be at a later date at the Oak Hill Cemetery, Atchison. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Cynthia Miller was born on June 3, 1962 in St. Joseph, Mo the daughter of Robert and Gloria (Dever) Miller. She attended Troy High School and lived and worked in the Troy area for several years. Cynthia attended the Northeast Kansas Area Vo-Technical School in Atchison in the Medical Assistants Program. She was employed at Plasma-Biological Services as a processor for seven years. Cindy enjoyed gardening, raising flowers, cooking and especially spending time with her grandchildren. She was an avid Chief’s fan.

She was married to Kenneth Stewart on Feb. 15, 1980 in St. Joseph; MO. Mr. Stewart survives of the home. Additional survivors include a son, Kenneth Stewart, Jr, Atchison and a daughter, Christy Pennington, Bendena, KS, a sister, Tess (Bryan) Wagner, Platte City, MO and three grandchildren, Cayden, Gwen, and Weston. Her parents preceded her in death.

Linda Marrs, 58, of Reserve, KS, passed away December 15, 2017 at Reserve. She was born September 22, 1959 at Falls City, NE to Orville and Phyllis (Law) Cudney, Jr.

She married Chuck Reilly in 1984 at Gloucester, NJ and they later divorced. She then married Jesse Marrs on September 4, 1994 at Falls City and they were later divorced.

Linda was raised at Falls City and graduated Falls City High School in 1978. She attended Lincoln School of Commerce and graduated in 1979 as a medical secretary. She then worked at the Lincoln Diagnostic and Evaluation Center until moving back to Falls City in 1981. She then moved to New Jersey with Chuck while he attended school, returning to Mound City in 1986 and she moved back to Falls City after the divorce where she meet Jesse in 1987 and marrying in 1994. She was the office secretary at Flair Fold and following the closure of the plant worked various jobs in Falls City. She moved to Reserve with Leonard in 2003 and had lived there since.

Linda is survived by her daughter, Amanda Reilly and her special friend Clayton Vonderschmidt of Falls City, son, Trevor Marrs of Lincoln, NE, brothers, Glenn Cudney and his wife Carlene of Falls City, Dave Cudney and his friend Betse Stuart of Emigrant, MT, sisters, Karen Brown and her husband Robert of Falls City, Rhonda Reichart of Omaha, NE, a granddaughter, Daycee Witt of Falls City and special friend Leonard Witt of Reserve.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 22, 2017 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Father Thomas Dunavan officiating. Inurnment will be in Steele Cemetery.

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

Lorraine Clement was born April 21, 1921, in Livingston County, Missouri, the daughter of Willard and Clara Dowell Parkey.

Lorraine died late Thursday evening, December 14, 2017, at Hiawatha Community Hospital, where she had been a patient since November 30. She was 96 and able to enjoy her apartment at the Maple Grove Senior Complex in Hiawatha for several years.

She attended schools in Missouri and Kansas, later received her GED from Highland Community College.

Lorraine worked at the United Department Store in St. Joseph, Missouri before her marriage. She was a homemaker and loved her family, gardening, reading, and crossword puzzles.

Mrs. Clement was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church in Hiawatha.

Through the years, she enjoyed assisting with the many funeral lunches through the years.

Lorraine married Lynn Clement, February 16, 1947 and had made Hiawatha their home since that time. He died December 26, 2006.  She was also preceded in death by her parents; brothers:  Harold, Chester, Roger, and Howard Parkey; and a sister Laveene Clayton.

Survivors include her sisters: Eva Sanson of Topeka, Donna Schnitker of Union Star, MO; sister in law Doris Parkey of Chillicothe, MO; many nieces and nephews.

Services are planned for 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 20, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha. Reverend Jacob Cloud will officiate.  Interment will follow at Powhattan Cemetery.

Friends may call after 10 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, where the family will meet from 6 until 7:30 that evening.

Memorial contributions are suggested to First United Methodist Church Memorial Fund or Morrill Free Public Library of Hiawatha, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
 

Phyllis Dove, 72 years old, of Atchison, Kansas, died on December 13, 2017 surrounded by her family.

Visitation with the family will be on Sunday, December 17, 2017 from 4:00 P.M. until 5:30 P.M. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and may be left in care of the funeral home. Words of comfort to the family may be left online at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Phyllis was born on April 1, 1945 in Atchison, Kansas the daughter of Ethyle Marie Zumbrunn. She attended Atchison Public Schools, graduating from Atchison High School in 1963.

She and Donald Ray Dove were united in marriage on January 23, 1965 at St. Joseph’s Church in Atchison.

Phyllis was employed with Atchison Castings as a shipping supervisor for over 35 years.

Survivors include her husband, Don Dove, of the home in Atchison, KS, son Todd (Kim) Dove, Atchison, KS, three sisters, Karolyn (Paul) Garten, Sally (Charles) Estes, Lisa (Roland) Medrano, four brothers, James “Jim” (Carol) Grinlinton, Stephen “Steve” (Ann) Mixon, Claude (Regina) Mixon, Richard (Martha) Zumbrunn, a sister-in-law, Diana Moxley and four grandchildren, Brienna, Zachary, Samantha and Robert Dove.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Michelle Renee Dove, two sons, Shane Michael Dove, Trey Lee Dove, a sister, Jerene Moxley, and a brother-in-law, Gary Moxley.

Harry Edward Bratton, Sr., 62, Atchison, Kansas died Tuesday, December 12, 2017, surrounded by his loving family at Mosaic Life Care, St. Joseph, Missouri.

Funeral services will be Monday, December 18, 2017 at 1:00 P.M. at Campbell Chapel, A.M.E. Church.  The body will be cremated following these services.  Visitation with the family will be Monday, December 18th from 12:00 noon until 1:00 P.M. at the church.  Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Harry was born September 3, 1955 in Atchison, Kansas the son of Arthur Gilbert and Imogene Cushinberry Bratton.  He attended Washington Elementary School and graduated from Atchison High School in 1973.    

He and Yolanda Bitagan were united in marriage on December 28, 2007 in Atchison, Kansas.

Survivors include his wife, Yolanda Bratton; father Arthur Bratton, Sr. Atchison, KS; a son, Harry E. (Tereine)  Bratton, Jr., Atchison, KS; three daughters, Candace Bratton, St. Joseph, MO; Heather (Brandon) Crockett, Rushville, MO; Keiahsha (Richard) McMillian, St. Louis, MO; a brother, Jerome Bratton, Atchison, KS; two sisters, Ramona (Keith) Whitely, Houston, TX; Cynthia Bratton, Atchison, KS; twelve grandchildren, and a host of loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Harry was preceded in death by his mother, Imogene Bratton and two brothers, Arthur G. Bratton, Jr., and William Harvey Bratton.

Dorothy A. Shalz, 94, formerly of Wathena, Kansas passed away Thursday, December 14, 2017 in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Dorothy was born on June 23, 1923 in Wathena, Kansas to Lawrence E. & Mary E. (Banks) Miller.

She was a member of the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, St. Ann’s Altar Society, American Legion Women’s Auxiliary & a lifetime member & past president of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary.

Dorothy married Francis L. Shalz on December 31, 1940 in Wathena, Kansas. He preceded her in death on October 13, 1988. She was also preceded in death by her parents, 4 sons, Francis Wayne, Richard, Larry & Joey Shalz & a sister, Stella Schoenfelder.

Survivors: sons, Neil Shalz of St. Joseph, Missouri;

                           Don Shalz of Kansas City, Kansas;

                 Daughters, Linda Shalz of St. Joseph, Missouri;

                                   Karen Hurd of St. Joseph, Missouri;

               11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren & 5 great-great-grandchildren;

               Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins & many friends.

Funeral Mass: 10:30 A.M. Saturday, December 16, 2017
At the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Wathena, Kansas.
Visitation: 9:00-10:00 A.M. Saturday, prior to service at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena, Kansas.
Burial: Mount Calvary Cemetery, Wathena, Kansas.

Memorials: Mosaic Hospice

Joseph G. Forster, 92, Lansing, Kansas formerly of Atchison, Kansas, died Tuesday, December 12, 2017, at Lansing Care & Rehabilitation Center, Lansing, Kansas.

Funeral services will be Friday, December 15, 2017 at 1:00 P.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with Pastor Stephen Lucas officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Thursday, December 14, 2017 from 6:00 until 7:30 P. M. at the funeral home.

Joseph was born August 23, 1925, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of Robert and Mary (Miller) Forster. He attended Pleasant View School and graduated from Holton High School.

He and Donna J. Keefer were united in marriage on February 2, 1948, in Topeka, Kansas. Mrs. Forster preceded him death on April 26, 1994.

Joseph served with the United States Navy until his honorable discharge on April 26, 1946.

Joseph was self-employed as a metal spinner at Forster Metal Crafters for over thirty years.

Survivors include a daughter Tamara (Robert) Mullins, Atchison, KS, two grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Joseph was preceded in death by three brothers, Gaylen Forster, Charles Forster and Robert Forster.

Beverly “Bev” Jane Enneking Fowler McClary, 75, of Centralia, Kansas died on December 11, 2017, at KU Medical Center in Kansas City; after complications of cancer.

She was born on April 10, 1942, in Seneca, Kansas, to Frank J. and Agnes M. Otting Enneking. The family lived three miles east of Seneca, and she attended Sts. Peter & Paul School, graduating in 1960. She helped on the family farm for a year before she got married.

On April 8, 1961 Bev married Ralph O. Fowler at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. The couple was married 10 years before his death on December 5, 1971. On April 26, 1975 Bev married Forrest McClary at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Forrest passed away on February 25, 2009.

In 1970, Ralph and Bev moved to Centralia, and Bev stated working at the D&L Drive-In for a few years until she married Forrest. After her kids were raised and out of school she started to work for the Centralia School District as a teacher’s aide, retiring after 20 years.

She was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.

Bev enjoyed cooking and baking.  She appreciated a good game of cards and liked throwing a party. She often took trips to the casino.  The most important thing in her life was her family above all. She also cherished her four-legged friends, Fletcher Bella, Brandi, Homer, Allie and Bandit.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Ralph Fowler; her second husband, Forrest McClary; an infant son, David Wayne Fowler on July 8, 1969; parents, Frank J. Enneking on September 6, 1970 and Agnes M. Otting Enneking on April 2, 1991; a brother, Gene on July 3, 2005; and a sister, Norman Melvin on March 6, 2014.

Survivors are a son, Daniel Fowler of Overland Park, Kansas; twin daughters, Pamela Fowler and Patricia Fowler both of Overland Park, Kansas; step children, Kent (Janet Noll) McClary of Elkhorn, Nebraska, Lonn J. McClary of Centralia and Krystal (Dan Rankin) Baldwin of Manhattan; a brother, James Enneking of  Seneca; two sisters, Virginia Huber of Seneca and Lavona Engelken of Topeka; grandchildren, Heidi Fowler and Josh Fowler both of Overland Park, Kansas, Landon (Elizabeth) McClary of Pittsburg, Kansas, Lincoln (Kasey) McClary of Centralia and Laramie McClary of Meade, Kansas; and nieces and nephews.

A rosary will be prayed at 2 PM on Friday and a visitation will be from 6 to 7:30 PM on Friday, December 15, 2017 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Mass of Christian burial will be 10 AM Saturday, December 16, 2017 at Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Seneca. Burial will be in the church cemetery, next to her first husband Ralph and her son David.

Memorials are to be given in Bev’s memory to  Sts. Peter and Paul Church, and sent in care of the family.

Mary Gladys Stephens, 97 of Pawnee City, Nebraska passed away on Monday, December 11, 2017 at the Premier Estates in Pawnee City, Nebraska.  She was born on March 10, 1920 in Pawnee City, Nebraska to Lloyd and Lena Regina (Caverzagie).

She is survived by her children, Robert “Rasty” Stephens of Pawnee City, NE, Johnny Stephens of Pawnee City, NE, Marianne Farwell of Du Bois, Nebraska and Jo Dee Barrett of Pawnee City, NE.  

Memorial service 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2017 at the First Presbyterian Church/First Christian Church, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Officiating Reverend Duane Westing.

Visitation on Friday, December 15, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m., at Wherry Mortuary 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Private family inurnment at the Pawnee City Cemetery, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Memorial Rites conducted by Pawnee City Chapter VFW Auxiliary, Post 5289. Memorials to the Pawnee County hospital Foundation. On line condolence can be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Dorothy E. (Hardenberger) Janko, 86 years of age, of Falls City, passed away Sunday, December 10, 2017 at Falls City Healthcare Community in Falls City. She was born on February 28, 1931 in Grey Eagle, Minneasota to James and Lela (LaMiller) Hardenberger. Dorothy married Richard Shefferd and later divorced. She married Jerry Janko in May of 1963. She worked at the Falls City Creamery, sewing factory, Stephenson Motel, Ketter Manor and Falls City Care Center as a CNA. Dorothy enjoyed gardening, canning and spending time with all of her grandchildren.

Dorothy is survived by her children, James Shefferd and wife Mary of Pawnee Rock, Kansas, Joseph Shefferd of Falls City, Jerri Elwonger and husband Martin of Falls City, Kathy Andrew and husband Pat of Brownville, Elizabeth Kaster and husband Mike of Falls City, John Janko of Falls City; 14 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren and one on the way; 1 great great grandchild; and 1 brother, Delmar Hardenberger. She was preceded in death by her parents; second husband Jerry Janko in January of 1993; 2 sisters, Lois Nissen, Betty Belvins; 4 brothers, Clayton, Eric, Dean, Jimmy; and an infant brother.

Memorial Services will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, December 15th, 2017 at First United Methodist Church in Falls City with Rev. Judith A. Dye officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date at the Bohemian Cemetery near Table Rock. There will be no visitation. Memorials are suggested to the family’s choice in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be left online at www.hallfuneral.net. Hall Funeral Chapel in Falls City in charge of arrangements.

Arlene Emma (Mogler) Esslinger, 92, of Sabetha, KS died Saturday, December 9, 2017 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha.
 
She was born on October 30, 1925 in Lester, Iowa the daughter of Samuel and Tillie (Gerber) Mogler, where she was the oldest of 14 children. She was united in marriage to Martin Dale Esslinger on August 22, 1948. They resided in Bern, Kansas where they raised 8 children.

She was preceded in death by her husband Martin; 2 sisters; and 3 brothers.

Surviving are her children; 5 daughters, Marlene of Morton, IL, Linda of Sabetha, KS, Diane (Ron) Smith of Desoto, KS, Wanda (Joe) Guerra of Phoenix, AZ, and Bonnie (Ron) Burke of Scottsdale, AZ; 3 sons, Lee (Patsy) of Hanna City, IL, Denny (Gerty) of Hanna City, IL, and Dan (Karen) of Richmond, KY; and 17 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 5 sisters and 3 brothers.

Funeral service will be Saturday, December 16, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at the Apostolic Christian Church of Bern. Visitation will be Friday December 15, 2017 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. The interment will be made in the church cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bern Apostolic Christian Church or AC LifePoints, 2125 Veterans Rd Morton, IL 61550, sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534.  www.popkessmortuaries.com

Dr. Gary C. Cameron, 72, of Topeka, KS, passed away Sunday, December 10, 2017 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka. He was born June 14, 1945 in Brooklyn, NY, the son of Daniel and Ellsie Cameron.

Gary grew up in the Canarsie neighborhood of SE Brooklyn in New York City. After graduating from high school there; he attended Northwest Missouri State University (Northwest) in Maryville, MO where he earned a bachelor's degree in business. Gary continued his higher education until he earned a doctorate in business from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Dr. Cameron then returned to his undergraduate alma mater, Northwest, to teach. After 3 years at Northwest, he moved to Topeka, KS where he taught business at Washburn University until he retired in 2007.

Dr. Cameron is survived by two brothers; Daniel Cameron of Manhattan, NY and Gerald Cameron of San Diego, CA.

It was Dr. Cameron's wish to be cremated and no services are scheduled at this time. Memorials are suggested to Northwest Missouri State University or the Topeka Public Library 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.

Rodney A. McCulley, 67, passed away unexpectedly on December 5, 2017 at his home in Aledo, TX. He was born September 24, 1950 in Sabetha, KS, the son of Robert D. and Dona M. (Wittenbach) McCulley. He graduated in 1968 from Emporia High School in Emporia, KS.

Rodney was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam. He was a lifetime member of the V.F.W. and the NRA. He was employed by InServ Field Service based in Tulsa, OK. He worked as a Piping Superintendent and later as a site Safety Manager. He had worked for InServ, Cust-O-Fab, Inc. and ParFab Industries since 1995. Prior to that, Rodney worked for various other construction companies.

He was preceded in death by his father and his nephew, Brian Eisenbarth.

Survivors include his mother, Dona McCulley of Holton, KS; his brother, Bob McCulley of Holton, KS; his sisters, Becky Eisenbarth (Chuck) of Holton, KS and Roxi Jones (Casey) of Aurora, CO. Rodney also leaves his dearly loved niece and nephews, great nieces and nephews and a great-great-niece. They all were the light of his life.

A casual gathering of friends and family will be held on Saturday, December 16th from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, KS. Burial will be held at a later date in Wetmore Cemetery, Wetmore, KS.

 Memorial contributions in memory of Rodney may be made to Holton VFW Post 1367 c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Lance Richard Lingard, 62, died on December 8, 2017, at the Frankfort Community Care Home in Frankfort, Kan.

Lance was born June 14, 1955 in Belmond, Iowa, to Rev. Richard H. and Jeanette (Jaeger) Lingard (Hanson).

Over the years, Lance resided in the communities of: Rowan, Iowa; Pawnee City and Tilden, Neb.; and Axtell, Beattie and Frankfort, Kan.

Lance attended Marysville High School. He worked at the Twin Valley Developmental Services Workshop from 1974-2014, and was a member of the Axtell United Methodist Church.

His favorite activities included: collecting pencils, riding his bike, listening to KNDY on his radio, cheering for the Axtell Eagles, checking his “calendae”, and “Shucken and Jiven”.

Lance was preceded in death by his father, mother, brother Larry Lingard and sister Loretta Winchell.

Survivors include a step-father, Charles Hanson (Topeka); brother-in-law, Kim Winchell (Axtell); and many other extended family members who loved him.

A public visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, December 12, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Axtell-Landreth Funeral Home in Axtell. The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 13, at the United Methodist Church in Axtell.

Burial will be in the Rosehill Cemetery, Axtell.

The family suggests memorial to Twin Valley Developmental Services, Inc. Contributions may be sent in care of the Axtell-Landreth Funeral Home.

Daniel Lee Smith, 60 of Effingham KS, passed away unexpectedly on December 7, 2017.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 AM Thursday, December 14, 2017 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, with Fr. Benjamin Tremmel, OSB as celebrant.  Interment of cremated remains will follow at St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery.  A Parish Rosary will be recited at 9:30 AM with visitation following until service time at the church.  Memorials are suggested to and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, who has been entrusted with the arrangements.  Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Daniel was born on May 28, 1957, in Atchison, KS, the son of Lowell and Jeanette (Gibson) Smith.  Dan was a farmer and caretaker for his mother. He was a member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church.  He had a passion for cooking and eating, enjoyed time with his small dogs and working on cars. He took delight in watching documentaries, he took any chance he could to learn something new. Daniel would fix anything that needed fixing and had a great time doing it. This loving man also adored spending time with his grandchildren. Dan will be remembered as a very selfless, kind hearted man.

Daniel married Jacqueline Frost on February 8, 1996, she survives of the home. Additional survivors include two daughters Sarah (Beau) Sigrist of Platte City, MO, and Libby Smith of the home, a brother, Bob (Tanya) Hudson of Larkinburg, KS, sister Margaret McDonald of Arrington, KS, grandchildren Ethan and Rachel Eaton, William Bindel, Ava, Audrey and Harper Sigrist and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a son Jared Bindel.

Linna (Miller) Mort was born on Oct. 10, 1921, on the family farm in Mission Creek to Oris and Myrle Miller. She was a wife, a sister, a daughter, a mother, an aunt, a grandmother, a great-grandmother, and a friend. She was a strong woman who embodied the pioneer spirit, and was devoted to her faith, family and farm.

As the youngest girl of six children, Linna grew up helping out around the farm and farmhouse. She was baptized into the Christian Church in Liberty and attended country school in Maple Grove District 22. She began high school in Summerfield, but transferred to Barneston High School in 1939, where she graduated.

Before she was married, Linna worked as a housekeeper and nanny and also worked with her sister and brother-in-law showing movies and selling ice cream. From 1945-1951, Linna lived in Lincoln where she worked at a dry cleaning plant as head of the silk department. On hot summer nights, she joined other Lincolnites in sleeping on the lawn of the state capitol building.

She married Donald LeeRoy Mort on Oct. 28, 1951, in Liberty. The couple moved to Don’s family farm in Pawnee where they were blessed with four daughters. Linna loved being outside and helping Don farm. Whether it was Linna’s canning of their garden harvest or her staining of all the woodwork in the home they built, she and Don worked together and made a great team. She was skilled at sewing, knitting and crocheting, making her grandkids beautiful afghan blankets as high school graduation gifts. She was involved in several women’s groups including Scissors and Thimble, Priscilla Circle/CWF, Twentieth Century, and the American Legion Auxiliary. She was a member of the Christian Church in Pawnee City where she taught Sunday school.

Linna’s steady strength was admired and respected. Her capable hands could take on any task – even making Christmas dresses by hand for her granddaughters over the course of one visit. And later a prom dress for one of them – cut on the bias no less! Linna was social and loved a good game of cards. Her quick wit served her well as she was always prepared to tell a funny story or relay a good memory. Holidays were only complete when the family sat down to enjoy one of her many pies and she was always willing to show you how she’d done it despite the fact that she never used a recipe. She lived a full life, seeing her daughters grow into successful adults and becoming a constant and comforting presence in the lives of her grandchildren. She enjoyed travel with Don to visit family and new sights – even and Alaskan cruise! And she was always a gracious and welcoming hostess to friends and strangers alike.

Linna Mort went to be with the Lord on Dec. 9, 2017, peacefully and in her home she had resided in for  years. She was 96 years old. Her passing causes a painful void for her family and her community. She has left a legacy of faithfulness, integrity and wisdom. We look forward with anticipation to the day we will see her again in heaven.

She is survived by her children, Diane and Dale Garner, Columbus, NE, Priscilla and Roger Adams, Lincoln,NE,  Virginia Mort, Pawnee City, NE,  and Jane Mort and Carrie Stemple, Brookings, S.D.; her grandchildren, Joshua Garner, Omaha,NE,  Elizabeth Garner, Lincoln, NE, Lauren and Srdan Sadikovic, Washington, D.C., Claire and Jeff Valder, Lincoln,NE,  and Maggie and Adam Birkel, Bruno; one great-grandson George Leeroy Birkel.; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband Don Mort; her siblings Clair (Helen) Miller, Gladys (Kenneth) Heywood, Clinton (Faye) Miller, Keith (Bonnie) Miller; and sister-in-law Marjorie (Merle) Mort Wallen.

Memorial service 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 15,2017 at the First Christian/First Presbyterian Church, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Officiating Reverend Duane Westing. Visitation on Thursday, December 14, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Inurnment at the Pawnee City Cemetery, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Memorials to the First Christian Church.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Eldon Ray Wehking, 80 of Lancaster, KS passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on Friday, December 8, 2017.He was born October 4, 1937 to Elsie Dorssom Wehking and Gilbert Wehking in Lancaster, KS where he lived in virtually the same location his entire life.  He attended Old Huron Elementary School and was a graduate of the final graduating class of Huron High School. Eldon had a passion for farming and was the third generation in a five-generation farm.  Over the years, Eldon and his sons and grandsons developed the farm into Wehking and Sons.He was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lancaster and had served on the church council.  He also served on the Atchison County Co-op Board and the Huron Cemetery Board.

He married Carol Lockwood on November 26, 1961.  He is survived by his son Todd (Jayne) Wehking, grandchildren Courtney (Joe) Klepees, Matt (Jake) Wisdom, Collin Wehking, Troy Wehking, Austin (Mariah) Gibson, great-grandson Nash Gibson, sisters Marilyn (Larry) Jacobson, Dorothy (Pat) Vercauteren, and several nieces and nephews.Eldon was always happy to assist neighboring friends and farmers with labor, machinery, and his mechanical skills.  He exemplified a quality that is rare in society today, and as a lifelong member of the community was well respected. Ray was blessed with a wonderful sense of humor, and his infectious smile was loved by many.  He was an avid dog lover and owned many dogs throughout his life.  He is survived by his beloved Yorkie, Bo.He was preceded in death by his parents, Elsie and Gilbert Wehking, wife Carol Wehking, son Chris Wehking, daughter Lisa Wilson and son in law James Wilson and a sister Grace Welch.

Graveside service and burial will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, December 11, 2017 at the Huron Cemetery, with Rev. Jeff Cochran officiating.  Memorials are suggested to St. John’s Lutheran Church or Atchison Hospice and may be left in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, who has been entrusted with the arrangements.  Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Dixie K. Elkinton, 68, of Oskaloosa, died Thursday, December 7, 2017 at Lawrence Memorial Hospital.  She was born July 16, 1949 in Ozawkie, the daughter of Cyrus B. and Ethel L. Boyd May. She was a life time resident of Jefferson County and was a 1967 graduate of Oskaloosa High School.

Dixie retired in 2002 after working 14 years for Hays and Hays Law office in Oskaloosa. She had formerly worked at the State Bank of Oskaloosa and worked at Oskaloosa Drug Store.

She was a member of Oskaloosa United Methodist Church and Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She was an active volunteer at Old Jefferson Town for the Jefferson County Historical Society for many years. 

She was married to Larry Lee Elkinton on November 4, 1967 at Ozawkie, celebrating 50 years this year, Larry survives at home. She is also survived by one son, Dusty (Aubrey) Elkinton, Moundville, MO, three sisters, Darlene (Larry) Knudsen, Ozawkie, Patricia (Dale) Brunton, Meriden, Shelley (David) Steffey, Oskaloosa, three grandchildren, Halley Elkinton, Talyn Elkinton and Ryden Elkinton, all of Moundville, MO.  She was preceded in death by one brother, Cyrus “Joe” May. 

Funeral Service at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, December 12, at Oskaloosa United Methodist Church. Burial at Ozawkie Cemetery. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Monday at Barnett Family Funeral Home, Oskaloosa.  Memorials suggested to Jefferson County Historical Society for Old Jefferson Town in care of the Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602, Oskaloosa, KS,    66066.   http://www.barnettfamilyfh.com/

Daniel Charles “Dan” Zeller, 54, of Holton, KS passed away Friday, December 8, 2017 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka. He was born January 12, 1963 in Holton, the son of Fred and Lois Lutz Zeller.

Dan graduated from Holton High School in 1981 and from Kansas State University in 1985. He lived in the Holton area all of his life where he worked in meat processing in Topeka, Onaga and Holton. He most recently worked for Wal-Mart in Holton.

 Dan was married to Carol McNally and they were later divorced. He married Michelle Eshom in 1994 in Mayetta, KS. They also were divorced.

 Dan is survived by his parents; Fred and Lois Zeller of Holton, his sons; Cooper and Parker Zeller both of Hoyt, KS; his daughter, Joni Wardosky (David) of Ft. Riley, KS; his brother, David Zeller of Holton, KS; his sister, Debbie Zeller of Rockford, TN  and his grandchildren, Cameron and Mia.

It was Dan’s wish to be cremated. The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Memorials may be given to the Dan Zeller Memorial Fund c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS, 66436. To leave a special message for the family, visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Brian Hall, age 62 of Stella, passed away at his home Thursday, December 7, 2017.

Survivors include his sons Rian of Lincoln; Kody and wife Erin of LaVista; grandsons Levi and Jacob; siblings Vicki and husband Bob Beilke of Stella; Steve and wife Mary Hall of North Carolina; Linda HallOlson; other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be Tuesday, December 12, 11:00 a.m. at Stella Community Church in Stella. Burial will follow in Prairie Union Cemetery near Shubert. Visitation will be at the funeral home Monday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 5:00 to 7:00.

Memorials are suggested to the Stella Volunteer Fire Department.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.

Clifford Eugene Lowe, 81, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2017 at the Horton Community Hospital.

He was born on July 10, 1936 in Willis, Kansas the son of Ralph Burton and Esther Marie (Robinson) Lowe. Clifford was a school bus driver for Horton, Hiawatha and Willis School districts. He also was a farmer and worked for the Brown County road and bridge department before retiring.

Clifford served in the U.S. Army National Guard and was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Hiawatha, Kansas. He really loved playing Santa Claus, his fried chicken and hot fudge sundae's from Dairy Queen.

On June 8, 1958 he married Ruth Ann Stuff in Powhattan, Kansas. She preceded him in death on January 10, 2015.

Survivors include a daughter, Ellie (Melvin) Lamb of Searcy, Arkansas; four sons, Clifford (Jeanne) Lowe Jr. of Hiawatha, Kansas, Douglas (Jeanette) Lowe of Paxico, Kansas, Roy (Shelley) Lowe of Muscotah, Kansas and David (Dawn) Lowe of Horton, Kansas; brother, Roger Lowe of Wichita, Kansas; sister, Colleen Woelk of Dayton, Ohio; 15 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. onTuesday, December 12, 2017 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Hiawatha, Kansas. The family will greet friends on Mondayevening from 6:00 to 7:30 P.M. at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. Burial will be at the Claytonville Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Clifford Lowe 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

Alphia Strahm Jr., of Sabetha, passed peacefully to his eternal home on Thursday afternoon, December 7, 2017 at the age of 90.

Alphia was born on July 6, 1927, the oldest child of Alphia J. and Lena (Hartter) Strahm in Sabetha, Kansas. He attended the one-room National School just down the road from the family farm where he grew up. His occupation was farming, raising crops to feed hogs and cattle. Alphia surrendered his life to the Lord and was baptized at the age of 19 and remained a life-long member of the Bern Apostolic Christian Church where he served the Lord and his church in many roles including as minister of the Gospel for 34 years.

Alphia was united in marriage to Mamie Marti on March 25, 1951. Together, they raised 8 children: Ada, Dean, Rodney, Curtis, Edwin, Kyle, Michael and Bradley.

Alphia was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years on October 1, 2004, one grandson and one great-grandson.

He is survived by his children: a daughter, Ada (Don) Plattner; sons, Dean (Jan), Rod (Cynthia), Curt (Ellen), Ed (Ramona), Kyle (Peggy), Mike (Diane), and Brad (Michelle), all of Sabetha; two brothers, Waymer Strahm of San Francisco, California, and Clayton Strahm (Miriam) of Sabetha and one sister, Arleta (Harold) Waibel of Remington, Indiana and 32 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren.

Alphia will be remembered as a man of quiet faithfulness to his God, wife, church, and family.

Funeral service will be Monday, December 11, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bern Apostolic Christian Church. Visitation is Sunday, December 10, 2017 from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Visitation will be Monday, December 11, 2017 from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. at the Bern Apostolic Christian Church. The interment will be made in the Bern Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Apostolic Christian Home, Sabetha Community Hospital or to the charity of the donor’s choice sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary 823 Virginia Sabetha, Kansas 66534. www.popkessmortuaies.com

Johanna C. Hylton, 96, of Topeka, formerly of Seneca, died Wednesday evening, December 6, 2017, at Plaza West in Topeka.

Johanna was born to Albert and Elizabeth Waller Lierz on January 30, 1921, six miles east of Seneca in Adams township.  She grew up in this community and attended Ford Country School before attending Sts. Peter & Paul School.

As a young woman she was employed by the Dutch Mill; and later, for eighteen years she worked at the Starlite Motel and fifteen at the Nemaha Grade School.  

She married Warren Hylton on January 5, 1942 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.  The couple raised four children and were just shy of celebrating 52 years of marriage before Warren’s death on January 1, 1994.

She was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church and St. Ann’s Altar Society in Seneca; she enjoyed quilting with the church, embroidery and bingo. She had a wonderful sense of humor and always told her children they were what she cherished the most in her life.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her father Albert on September 29, 1942; her mother Elizabeth on April 2, 1972; thirteen siblings, Magdalene Hasenkamp on July 15, 1980, Lawrence Lierz on September 24, 1978, Stella Mergenmeier on February 5, 1996, Clarence Lierz on October 21, 1975, Albert Lierz, Jr. on June 6, 1942, Walter Lierz on November 13, 1985, Charles Lierz on December 16, 1995, Joseph Lierz on December 18, 1971, Eldora Knox on August 30, 1993, Rosanna Lierz on July 29, 1917, Laura Wietharn on November 29, 1998, Ralph Lierz on October 29, 1999 and  Elizabeth M. Larkin on August 21, 2011; and one great-grandchild.

She is survived by her son, Richard (Kathy) Hylton of Topeka; three daughters, Joan Hochard of Topeka, Bonnie (John) Irwin of Topeka, Kansas and Jeanne (Robert)Lucas of Peru, Illinois; former son-in-law, Maurice Hochard of Topeka; ten grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren, nine step-great grandchildren; 23 step-great-great grandchildren; and four step-great-great-great grandchildren.

A rosary will be prayed at 7 PM Friday, December 8th at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM Saturday, December 9, 2017, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be given in Johanna’s memory to the Sts. Peter & Paul Stained Glass Window Fund, and sent in care of the family.

Robert E. Puckett Sr., 85, formerly of Troy, Kansas passed away peacefully at his home in Elwood, Kansas on December 4, 2017.

Robert was born on May 2, 1932 to Sylvester Ralph and Lena (Mozingo) Puckett in Ravenwood, Missouri.

Robert served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War.

He married Helen Marie Duncan on January 4, 1955 in Troy, Kansas. They were married for 53 years.  She preceded him in death on November 29, 2008. During their marriage they lived in California and Minnesota before moving back to Troy in 1970. Robert worked many factory jobs, but, started as an over the road truck driver in 1963 and for over 45 years that was his career of choice. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, going to the casino and his two favorite bars, First and Last Chance and The Neighborhood.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, wife, sisters, Margaret, Cora, Donna and brothers, Bill, James and Spud.

He is survived by two Daughters; Joann Smith (Dennis) of Elwood, Kansas; Rebecca Franken (Mike) of Topeka, Kansas. One son, Robert E. Puckett Jr. of Elwood, Kansas.

Four Grandchildren; Wendi Smith (Chris Miller) of Elwood, Kansas; Jeff Smith of St. Joseph, Missouri; Caitlyn and Colton Franken of Topeka, Kansas. Six Great-grandchildren; Trenton & Kassydee Smith, Raini Smith and Sunni Smith-Miller, Miranda and Tsali Franken. Sisters, Joyce, Anna and Connie. Brothers, George, Jerry, Larry, Raymond, Hubert and Ralph Curtiss. Niece, Carol Sigrist, who helped with his care and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral Service: 11:30 A.M. Saturday, December 9, 2017.

At the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas.

Visitation: 6:30-8:30 Friday evening at the funeral home, where friends may call after 9 A.M. Friday.

Burial: Mount Olive Cemetery, Troy, Kansas.

Memorials: St. Croix Hospice, Robert Puckett Memorial Fund or the Elwood United Community Church.

Mimi A. Young, 76, Atchison, Kansas died Tuesday, December 5, 2017, at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, Missouri with her family at her side.

Funeral services will be Thursday, December 14, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. St. Francis Baptist Temple, 1610 Angelique Street, St. Joseph, Missouri, with Pastor W. A. Hedge officiating. Interment will follow promptly at 2:30 P.M. at Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, Kansas. Visitation with the family will be Thursday, Dec. 14th from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. at the church. Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home, Atchison, Kansas. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Mimi was born December 5, 1941, in St. Joseph, Missouri, the daughter of George W. and Frances (Hatcher) Harper. She attended elementary school in St. Joseph graduating from Central High School. Following graduation she attended Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas.

She and Joseph Young were united in marriage on March 20, 1971, in Los Angeles, California.

Mimi was employed with the City of Los Angeles for 30 years as a secretary.

She was a member of St. Francis Baptist Temple in St. Joseph, where she served as a Deaconess and as church clerk. She loved to travel, enjoyed volunteering and reading in her free time.

Survivors include her husband, Joseph Young, a son James Allemond (Jolynn) Kemp,II; Pasadena, CA, a step-daughter, Catharia Blackwell, Decator, GA, her mother, Frances Harper, Atchison, KS, a step-grandchild, her special cousin, Clarissa Watson-Blake, Los Angeles, CA, and special friend, Glenis (Kenneth) Davis, Atchison, Kansas.

Mimi was preceded in death by her father, George Harper.

Denise Louise Bottorff, 56, Platte City, MO, passed away Tuesday, December 5, 2017, at North Kansas City Hospital, Kansas City, MO.

Denise Louise Coffey, was born on January 16, 1961 in Atchison, KS. Denise attended schools in Atchison and graduated from Emporia State College with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Denise owned and operated her own accounting firm prior to becoming the accountant for Hull Lumber Company in Weston, MO.

Denise and Scott W. Bottorff were married on July, 30, 1983 at the First Presbyterian Church in Atchison.

Survivors include her husband of 34 years, Scott, of the home in Platte City, daughters, Tabatha (Brett) Davis, Platte City, and Jessica (Travis) Tanksley, Granbury, TX; granddaughters, Bailey and Rylee Davis; her mother, (Dorothy) Louise Winters, Atchison; sister, Janet (Gary) Kottman and Susan (Mark) Falk, mother-in- law, Glenda Bottorff, sisters-in-law, Gayle Theurer and Linda Bottorff, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Brad and Kim Bottorff; and several nieces and nephews.

Denise was preceded in death by her father(s)-in-law, John Winters and Bob Bottorff, brother-in-law, Mark Bottorff; nephew, Kyle Falk; and great grandmother, Lucille Coffey.

Family will receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, Sunday, December 10, 2017 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, 800 Kansas Ave, Atchison, KS. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Private Family burial of the cremated remains will be at a later date. Words of comfort and remembrance may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Clarence Oliver Hayes, Sr., 78, of Sabetha, KS passed away peacefully on Friday, December 1, 2017 at the Crestview Manor Nursing Home.

Clarence was born September 13, 1939 in Phoenix, Arizona to Ambrose and Leva (Ellington) Hayes. He was the youngest of nine children. He grew up in Sabetha, Kansas where he attended and graduated from Sabetha High School. Clarence enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served during the Vietnam War. Sergeant Hayes distinguished himself as an exemplary Marine earning the Bronze Star with combat V. Clarence worked for the Union Pacific Railroad and the Youth Center in Atchison where he served as a Youth Service Counselor. He led a quiet and private life, but touched many lives. Clarence will be dearly missed by all that knew and loved him.

He is survived by his three sons, Tyrone Duncan of Hiawatha, Kansas, Rodney (Angela) Campbell of Omaha, Nebraska, and Clarence Hayes, Jr. of Wichita, Kansas; his sister, Betty Martin of Atchison, Kansas; grandchildren, Olivia Grace Duncan, Rakeem Campbell, Terrah Hayes, and Kailyn Carter; and great-granddaughter, Elizabeth Carter, and a host of friends and relatives.

Funeral service will be Saturday, December 9, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. Interment will be made at the Leavenworth Military Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Crestview Manor Nursing Home, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Margaret A. Scholl, 91, of Falls City, NE, passed away December 5, 2017 at Falls City. She was born January 9, 1926 at Falls City to Orville and Margaret Ann (Willson) Combs,

She married John E. Scholl on February 26, 1944 at Sanford, FL. He passed away December 26, 1997.

Margaret was raised at Preston, NE and graduated Falls City High School in 1943. After graduation she worked at Falls City Creamery, Bakery and for the County Superintendents Office. When married the couple established their home in Sanford and then moved to Virginia Beach, VA. After his service they moved northeast of Falls City and then northwest of Falls City in 1950 and into Falls City in 1985. She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Falls City Chapter of Order of Eastern Star, BPO Does Drove #56 and VFW Auxiliary #1765 all of Falls City.

Margaret is survived by her sons, Edward of Laughlin, NV, Wayne R. and his wife Marsha of Bellevue, NE, grandchildren, John Scholl of Prescott, AZ, Chelsea Hinz and Allison Ostrander of Plattsmouth, NE, step-grandchildren, Melissa Meyer of Austin, TX, Aaron Meyer of Springfield, MO, great-grandchildren, Kinze and Blake Ostrander, Wyatt and Grace Hinz, Alexa, Natasha and Nadia Scholl, step-great-grandchildren Alex and Kaitlynne Meyer, step-great-great-grandson, Joseph Meyer. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a daughter at birth, sister, Frona Vohl and a grandson, Jason Scholl.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, December 11, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Steele Cemetery with Reverend Paul Weinert officiating. 

No viewing or visitation, friends may sign the guest register during regular, weekday business hours.

Lola Ireane Parkerson, 96, of Topeka, Kansas, formerly of Horton, Kansas, passed away on December 4, 2017 at the Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, Kansas.

She was born on July 19, 1921 in Hiawatha, Kansas the daughter of Ernest and Lillie Thompson Lassley. Lola graduated from Powhattan High School and from Highland Community College. Lola was a homemaker. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Horton where she taught Sunday school, held numerous offices and served on various committees. She was also a member of the American Baptist Women, Delphian Club, Horton Hospital Auxiliary, Farm Bureau Unit, Women's Chamber of Commerce, Topeka Baptist Church and was a former Girl Scout and Boy Scout leader.

On July 11, 1948 she married Charles Parkerson in Horton, Kansas. He preceded her in death on March 3, 1997.

Survivors include a son, Robert (Donna) Parkerson of Owasso, Oklahoma; four daughters, Patty (Gary) Anderson of Houlton, Wisconsin, Peggy (Rick) Schuetz of Hoyt, Kansas, Cheryl Hobbs and Sherri Nelson both of Topeka, Kansas; eleven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by two sons, Duwane and Kevin Parkerson and a great grandson, Hunter Arcuri.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, December 8, 2017 at the First Baptist Church in Horton, Kansas where the family will greet friends from 10:00 A.M. until service time. Burial will be at the Horton Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Lola Parkerson 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

Hiawatha  native Margaret J. Henby 93, of Decatur, IL passed away at 9:50 p.m., Thursday, November 30. 2017, in Heritage Manor Nursing Center, Mt. Zion.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, December 8, 2017, in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha, Kansas.  Rev. Nancy Tuma, of  the First Presbyterian Church in Hiawatha, will officiate.   Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha, KS will be assisting the family with services. Memorials may be made to the Golden K (Kiwanis) of Decatur Scholarship Fund.  

Mrs. Henby was born March 29, 1924, in Hiawatha, KS the daughter of Tonie and Emilie (Hansen) Torkelson.  She married Wendell F. Henby on January 1, 1947.  He preceded her in death on February 26, 2014.  Mrs. Henby was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church where she served on the Board of Deacons of the United Presbyterian Women.  She had served as the Past President of the All States Club and was a former member of South Side Country Club and the Decatur Genealogical Society.

Surviving are her niece: Phyllis Grzywinski of Bartlett, IL; nephew: Larry Cannon of Omaha, NE; niece: Doris Hawkins of Richfield, MN; nephew: Glenn (Jane) Boyd of Duncanville, TX; niece: Edwina (Steve) Glass of Lawrence, KS; niece: Peggy Antonson of Newberg, OR; nephew: Bernard Torkelson of Buckley, WA; special friends: Stephen (Susan) Rayhill of Mt. Zion, IL; and Sharon (Kevin) Peabody of Taylorville, IL.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

William “Bill” Jones, 83, of Falls City, NE, passed away December 1, 2017 at St. Joseph, MO. He was born January 20, 1934 at Falls City to Moss and Maude (Odom) Jones. 

Bill was called for active duty in U. S. Army on August 1, 1956 from the National Guard. He was honorably discharged from active duty on May 30, 1958.

He married Mary Ann Bacakos on May 26, 1956 at Falls City.

Bill was raised at Falls City and graduated Falls City High School 1953. Following graduation he worked for his father in construction. He then became employed by Bohrer Brothers Construction and in 1981 he worked construction on his own for several years until he retired.

Bill is survived by his wife, Mary Ann of St. Joseph, daughters, Judy Gerdes and her husband Marvin of St. Joseph, grandchildren, Dakota and Montana Jones, Matthew Gerdes and Emily Hendricks, great-grandchildren, Levi and Zane Gerdes, Kason and Aidan Ferguson. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, David, a sister and seven brothers.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, December 9, 2017 from 2-4:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. Inurnment will be in Steele Cemetery.
 

Frances E. “Jean” Boyce, 84, Valley Falls, died Monday, Dec. 4, 2017, at her home.

She was born Jan. 14, 1933, at Atchison, the daughter of Elmer Cleo and Elsie Marie Wheeler Pennington. She had attended Atchison High School and received her diploma later.

Jean was a Drivers License Examiner for the State of Kansas in Topeka for over 25 years. She had worked at the State of Kansas Titles and Registration Department and for Jostens, both in Topeka. Jean was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and Ladies Auxiliary of Grahem-Herbers Post 3084 V.F.W., both in Valley Falls.

She married James Donald Boyce, Oct. 22, 1950, at Valley Falls. He died April 10, 1981. She was also preceded in death by a son, James Dale Boyce; grandson, Nicholas Boyce; daughter-in-law, Nedra Boyce; and two brothers, Elmer LeRoy and Howard Glenn Pennington.

Survivors include two sons, Frank E. Boyce, Valley Falls, and Raymond E. Boyce, Holton; two daughters, Pamela B. (Bill) Pfannenstiel, Garland, TX, and Donna M. (Robert) Johnston, Valley Falls; four sisters, Susie Berry, Atchison, Ruby Nauman, York, PA, Virginia Pelton, Topeka, and Beatrice McMillan, Cocoa, FL; five grandchildren, Megan, Casey, Aron, Dustin, and Phillip; and seven great-grandchildren, McKayla, Taygen, Braxton, Brooklyn, Alannah, Lennox and Grayson.

Jean dearly loved her family and friends and she enjoyed going fishing with them.

The funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017, at Calvary Baptist Church in Valley Falls. Burial will follow at the Valley Falls Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls.

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

Marlene Emma Lutz, 90, of Nortonville, KS died Sunday, December 3, 2017 at the Village Villa Nursing Home, Nortonville.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 am on Thursday, Dec. 7th, 2017 at the St. Joseph’s Church, Nortonville, with Fr. Lazar Carasala as Celebrant. Burial will follow in the St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Nortonville. A parish rosary will be recited at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, Dec. 6th, with visitation to follow until 8:30 pm at the O’Trimble Chapel, 329 Main, Nortonville, KS. Memorial contributions are suggested to the St. Joseph’s Church and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Marlene Emma Weber was born on March 26, 1927 in Atchison, KS the daughter of Lawrence and Florentine (Zelfer) Weber. She graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1945. She had worked at Blize-Mize as an order picker before she was married to Raymond Albert Lutz on June 23, 1948. Mr. Lutz preceded her in death on Feb. 16, 1974. She was a member of the St. Joseph’s Church, Nortonville, KS, the Altar Society, and enjoyed her grandchildren, cooking, and gardening and was an active member of the family farm.

Survivors include her children, Nancy (Joe) Krakowiecki, Peoria, IL, Ron (Peggy) Lutz, Nortonville, KS, Tom Lutz, Nortonville, KS, Debbie Lutz, Nortonville, KS., Marilyn (Paul) Holmes, Lenexa, KS, and Janet Krueger, Shawnee, KS., a sister, Imogene Kentzler, Atchison, KS, twenty two grandchildren , twenty-two great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Her parents, husband, a brother, Lawrence Weber Jr., and two sisters, Geraldine Gering, and Rita Weishaar preceded her in death.

Steven Loren Boeckman, 65, of Wetmore, KS, passed away peacefully December 1, 2017 surrounded by family and friends. He was born October 1, 1952 in Seneca, KS the son of Raymond and Lucille (Deters) Boeckman. He graduated from Wetmore High School in 1970 and attended Kansas State University. He was an active member of the Wetmore Men’s Club, worked as a welder most of his life, and enjoyed raising cattle. He met his wife, Marilyn, on a blind date and they married eight months later. Steve and Marilyn (Lister) Boeckman eloped on April 10, 1975 and married again in the Assumption Catholic Church on August 9th of that same year.

He was preceded in death by parents Raymond and Lucille Boeckman and his brother, Dennis Boeckman.

Steve will forever be remembered by his wife, Marilyn, of the home, his son Matthew (Julie) Boeckman of Goff, KS, and his daughters Leigh Ann (Tony) Schultejans, of Wetmore, KS and Lindsey (Kenton) Dreiling of Rossville, KS, as well as his 8 grandchildren (with one on the way)- Dustin, Dalton, Madison, Weston, Hayden, Whitney, Lillian, and Katelyn. Survivors also include two brothers, Daryl and Kevin Boeckman.

One of the greatest joys in Steve’s life was spoiling his grandchildren. His cabinets were always stocked with Oreos, pop, ice cream, and chocolate milk. Steve also enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, playing cards, and a good debate around his kitchen table.

A celebration of life service will be held at 1:30 Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at St. James Catholic Church in Wetmore. A rosary will be prayed at 1:15 prior to the service. A reception in the St. James Hall will follow immediately after. The family requests guests to bring photos of Steve to share memories at the reception. The reception will be a time to celebrate his wonderful life in the way he celebrated every day.

Memorial contributions can be made to Wetmore Men’s Club, 639 R Road, Goff, KS 66428. Flowers can be sent directly to St. James Church, Wetmore, Kansas.

Richard H. (Dick) Spingler, 99, passed away Friday, December 1, 2017 at Presbyterian Manor of Topeka, Kansas.

Richard was born June 4, 1918, to Harry and Margarita Spingler in Brooklyn, NY where he spent his early life.  He graduated from Erasmus Hall High School, Brooklyn, and was a member its track team, in 1937.  He attended New York City University.  He took flying lessons and received his pilot’s license in 1940.
Mr. Spingler was a member of the Royal Canadian Air Force prior to Pearl Harbor. 

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, he returned to the United States and completed his pilot training.  He flew 53 missions as a B-25 pilot in African, Italian, and Aegean Sea Campaigns of World War II.  He received the European Theater of Operations medal, a pre-Pearl Harbor Medal, several Air Medals, and a Presidential Citation from President Franklin Roosevelt.  He received the Hellenic Commemorative Medal and Certificate from the Hellenic Republic in appreciation of his participation in the defeat of Germans in Greece.

Upon returning from combat, Mr. Spingler married Nedra Way at Tuscaloosa, Alabama in 1944.  Among other bases during his military service, he was stationed at Marshall Field, Fort Riley, KS, where his son Richard Jr. was born, and where he flew “The Brass” on military business and was part of a team of pilots who participated in air shows around the U.S.

Following his discharge from active duty in 1948, he worked for several auto dealerships before acquiring the Buick agency in Holton, KS, where the family lived in the 1950’s.  They moved to Topeka in 1960 and he worked as a State Farm Agent for 27 years.  Also during the 50’s and 60s, Mr. Spingler kept up his training in the Air Force Reserves.  He retired from the military as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1978 after 28 years of service.  Following his retirement from State Farm at age 70, he worked in property management for Ralph Lewis Enterprises for 12 years.

Mr. Spingler was a former member of the Holton Rotary Club, past-president and life member of the Southwest Optimist Club, Vice President and Skeet Director of Capital City Gun Club, a member of the Kansas State Skeet Shooters Association receiving their Friend of Skeet Award in 1995.  He was a member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Holton, Ks.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Audrey Woltz and her husband Harry of Elyria, OH.  

He is survived by Nedra, his wife of 73 years; a son, Richard Jr. and his wife Charlene of Florence, KY;  a step-granddaughter, Angela Waltz of Kansas City, MO; two granddaughters: Melanie Miner, her husband Greg, and their sons Luke and Finn, of Maineville, OH; Rylan Bender, her husband Nick, and their son Barron, and daughter Baylor, of Union, KY; a nephew David Woltz, Oketo, WI; and a niece Diane Woltz, Bellvue, WA.

Funeral Services will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 7, 2017 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, Kansas. Burial with full military honors will follow at Holton Cemetery.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Memorials may be given to the Presbyterian Manor c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, Kansas 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Gloria Elaine Brockhoff, 90, passed away Saturday, December 2, 2017 at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha.

Gloria was born April 8, 1927 to Sylvester G. and Marie "Lena" Pratz Keller southeast of Hiawatha.  She was a lifelong resident of Brown County.

Gloria attended kindergarten at Central Grade School before her family moved to the Belleview school district.  Later they bought a farm in the White Hall community where she completed 8th grade.  Gloria Graduated from Hiawatha High School.  

Towards the end of WWII Gloria met the love of her life, Carl "Bill" Brockhoff of Hiawatha and they later married on June 1, 1947.  They started out married life as residents of Hiawatha, but subsequently moved to the quaint community of Willis, KS, where they resided until 1968.   They later moved to a small farm north of Willis where Gloria resided for nearly 50 years.

Gloria was preceded in death by her husband Carl on Feb 5, 2000 and by her two beloved brothers Arnold Keller and Lowell Keller.

After a brief stint at the Garment Factory in Horton, Gloria worked at both the Hiawatha and Willis phone offices.  She later worked as a medication aide for nearly 20 years at both the Brown County Infirmary and the Oak Ridge Nursing Home.

Gloria is survived by three children: Karen Sechler and her husband Howard (Hiawatha, KS), Lynne Pinkerton and her husband Rus (Cincinnati, OH), and Ron Brockhoff and his wife Stacey (Manhattan, KS); five grandchildren: Cathy Simmons and her husband Gavin (Ames, IA), Wes Sechler (Wichita, KS), Holly Sutley and her husband Jasen (Lancaster, KS), Alex Pinkerton (Kirtland AFB, NM), and Kristy Pinkerton (Cincinnati, OH). She is also survived by five beloved great grandchildren.  Gloria greatly cherished her family and made them a priority throughout her life.  She will be greatly missed.

Gloria was active in the Willis Garden club and enjoyed crocheting, quilting, puzzles, games, and solitaire. She was also an active member of the Willis Christian Church and was saddened by the closure of the church earlier this year.

Visitation will be held Tuesday at 1:00pm followed by a funeral service at 2:00pm.  Both the visitation and the funeral service will be held at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home.  The funeral service will be officiated by Reverend Billy Watson. Gloria will be interred at Mount Hope Cemetery in Hiawatha, KS. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Gloria Brockhoff Memorial Fund, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.  www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Rex Earl Flentie, 92, of Centralia, KS passed away Thursday, November 30, 2017 at the Community Hospital Onaga.

Rex was born June 9, 1925 in Centralia, KS to Alvin and Elsie (Howard) Flentie. He attended Armstrong County School and graduated from Centralia High School in 1943. Shortly after graduation he joined the U.S. Navy. While in the Navy, Rex was part of a flight crew stationed along the East Coast where they would fly patrols up and down the coastline looking for German subs. Following his Honorable Discharge from the Navy after World War II, Rex attended business college in Topeka. There his dreams came true when he met Virginia Kimball of Vermillion, who was working in Topeka.

Rex and Virginia were married on June 11, 1947. Their first son, Craig Kimball, was born in 1949, and their second son, Allan Greg, was born in 1952.

Rex operated the Flentie Hardware Store until the 1960s when he and Virginia started selling Pioneer seed and chemical products. He served on numerous boards including the Centralia school board, both before and after unification, and the board for the Centralia Care Home. Rex was a member of the American Legion, the Lions Club and was a Mason. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Centralia, and served in various roles for the church.

Rex and Virginia were pleased to always be in a card group with extraordinary friends over the years. Rex enjoyed raising and showing quarter horses. He was happy to be able to see his sons participate in sports and numerous school activities. Throughout the years, he remained steadfast in supporting all of Centralia High School’s events, and was especially honored to be named The Fan of the Year several years ago. The Fourth of July in Centralia was always a fun occasion as he was able to see his grandchildren participate in the tractor pull, ride floats in the parade, and play bossy bingo along with the frog jumping contest. Rex appreciated dogs, especially German Shorthaired Pointers.

Rex was overjoyed with his love for his grandchildren and great grandchildren. The expression on his face said everything. He treasured many nice visits with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Rex was a good and kind-hearted man to everyone. He was well respected and deeply loved. He will forever hold a very special place in our hearts.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia after 55 years of marriage; his parents; his sisters, Thelma Cross and Wilma Roberts; and his brother, Erwin Flentie.

He is survived by his sons, Craig and Suzy Flentie of Lewistown, Montana, and Allan and Kathy Flentie of Overland Park, Kansas; grandchildren, Nick Flentie of Manhattan, Kansas; Elizabeth and Jeff Snodgrass and great granddaughter Cora of Shawnee, Kansas; Kala and Cole Radovich and great grandchildren, Case, Rori and Kodi of Washington, D.C.; Jake Flentie of Bozeman, Montana; and his sister-in-law, Margaret Carlson of Mahattan. He leaves many nieces and nephews, along with numerous wonderful friends.

The pall bearers are John Wetzel, John Showman, J.B. Holland, Bill Cross, Tom Crowther, and Brian Mackey. Honorary Pall Bearers are Larry Flentie, Irwin (Corky) Flentie, Lela Campfield, Julia Wilson, Faye Weyer, and Ray Chadwick.

Funeral service will be Thursday, December 7, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at the East Centralia Community Church in Centralia. Visitation will be Wednesday, December 6, 2017 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will be made at the Centralia Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Rex and Virginia Flentie Memorial Scholarship Fund, sent in care of The First Heritage Bank of Centralia, 620 4th Street, Centralia, KS 66415. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Edward N. Barton, 83, of Holton, died Saturday, December 2, 2017 at Medicalodges Jackson County in Holton.
 
He was born April 15, 1934 on a farm near Holton, the son of Bill and Helen Edwards Barton.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Army.
 
Ed was a member of the Holton Volunteer Fire Department and a special deputy for the Jackson County Sheriff's Department.
 
He had worked for Riley Electric and Walter Bennett Plumbing in Holton, and later owned and operated Barton Electric.  He worked for the City of Holton for eleven and a half years, and retired from the City of Horton after six years.
 
Ed married Dorothy (McGee) Gaston in 1978.  She died April 22, 1996.
 
Survivors include a son, William H. Barton and wife Melissa, Omaha, NE; a brother, Robert Barton and wife Carol, Carbondale; two sisters, Janice Brenner, Leavenworth and Joyce DeVader, Holton and two grandchildren.
 
Cremation is planned.  Family and friends will meet for a short service at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 7th at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Holton, and then go in procession for burial with military honors to the Holton Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to Jackson County Friends of Hospice or the Alzheimer's Association, and may be sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1034, Holton, 66436.  On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Anna Elizabeth (Baker) McCaul 92, of Lowell and Cedar Springs passed away on October 19, 2017 in Grand Rapids. Anna was born in Falls City, Nebraska to the late Frank & Ida (Van Benthem) Baker on December 1, 1924.

Anna graduated Falls City Sacred Heart High School in 1942. She married James B. McCaul on January 20, 1974 in Ada, Michigan. She worked for Clipper Belt Lacer Company in Grand Rapids for many years.

Anna will be lovingly remembered by her step children James (Karen) McCaul III and Paula (Mike) Trigg; her four very special grandsons, Dustin McCaul, Stuart (Johanna) McCaul, Christopher Trigg and Patrick Trigg; her brother Father Nicholas Baker, sisters Rose and Monica. In addition, she is survived by many nieces and nephews and her friend Annette Raymor.  Anna was preceded in death by her loving husband James her parents Frank and Ida, her sisters Emma & Mary, and her brother Francis.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2017 at 10:00 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Nicholas Baker as the presiding priest. Inurnment will be in Falls City Catholic Cemetery.

A Rosary will be recited on Friday, December 8, 2017 at 7:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.