Ronald “Mike” Ganzel, 92, of Pawnee City, Nebraska, passed away February 27, 2018, at the Premier Estates in Pawnee City, Nebraska. 

Mike was born to Lloyd and Genevieve Ganzel on December 3, 1925.  Mike grew up on a small farm outside of Otoe, Nebraska.  He graduated from Otoe High School in 1943 and as a senior he was selected as an All-State End in six man football. He then attended Nebraska Wesleyan University playing on the University’s basketball team. Mike was selected for the Navy V-5 Program to be trained as a Naval Aviator. Through the V-5 program he attended Doane College and the University of Iowa.

After his discharge from active duty he married Betty June Bock on August 11, 1946.  He attended the University of Nebraska where he and Betty lived in a camper that his father built.  They parked in the driveway of a relative’s house, used their facilities, and maintained the premises.  Both Mike and Betty attended UNL the first year.  Mike continued his education and graduated from UNL Ag College with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1949.  Mike then began his teaching career as a Vocational Agricultural Instructor in Allen, Nebraska. He later obtained his Master’s Degree from UNL in 1964. In 1951 Mike began teaching in Pawnee City, Nebraska where he taught until his retirement in 1987. 

Mike was the Future Farmers of America Adviser for Pawnee City High School. Many of his former FFA members will remember the annual chicken barbecue FFA Banquet, fruit sales, soil judging teams, and FFA conventions. His former students will remember, Pigs-n-Posies, building bookcases and gun racks, and those who misbehaved in his class will surely remember scrubbing the stainless steel sink and cleaning shop windows. When he was growing up Mike had an Uncle that lived near Memorial Stadium in Lincoln and he would go to Cornhusker games sitting in the knothole section. While he was a student at UNL he told stories about being asked to sit in the card section so they would have enough people to hold up the cards. Mike supervised student teachers from UNL which allowed him to purchase faculty season football tickets. This allowed him to pass his lifelong Cornhusker fandom on to his family.

Mike was very involved in the community where he was the master of ceremonies for many years at the Pawnee County Fair, dyed Easter Eggs and helped with many community projects.  He was a member of several organizations including the Pawnee Athletic Booster Club and the American Legion, and a charter member of the Rotary Club.

Mike was a member of the United Methodist Church in Pawnee City and Methodist Men’s Club and for many years served as church Treasured. Mike and Betty taught Adult Sunday School for many years. Mike served in various leadership positions within the Church, and was actively involved in any and all construction projects associated with the church.  In memory of his father, Mike with the assistance Bob Fink, built the walnut alter in the United Methodist Church out of wood milled from the farm where Mike grew up.

Ever the builder, Mike built a pick-up overhead camper and loaded the family in it for family vacations.  He built canoes, sailboats and a barge that the Ganzels, Sawyers, and Metzgers enjoyed at Burchard Lake. For his grandchildren Mike built rocking horses, doll houses, pedal airplanes, book shelves and many, many other things. 

Upon his retirement from teaching Mike fulfilled a life long dream and purchased a 19 foot motor boat.  Then he, Betty and their 14 year old grandson, Michael Krondak, set off from Rulo Nebraska, traveling down the Missouri River then down the Mississippi River to the Ohio River, and then up the Ohio River to Louisville, Kentucky where his son, Brian, and his family reside.  It has been debated among his children as to why Betty accompanied Mike. They were not sure it was because if the boat sunk she wanted to go down with him or if he drowned she wanted to  witness to it.

As a member of the Rotary Club, Mike and Betty opened their home to foreign exchange students. They formed a close bond with one particular student, Jose Rodriguez, whom they traveled to Spain to visit. Jose continues to maintain contact with the Ganzel family.

Mike was also known for rope making exhibitions at the Pawnee Historical Society, area schools, scout groups and the Homestead National Monument. He was an avid member of the 9:00 a.m. morning coffee group and kept track of who had to pay for the day’s coffee, determining the end of year, winners or losers.

Mike and Betty found their perfect traveling companions in Lyle and Wilma Droge who enjoyed Mike’s unique style of travel. Mike habitually avoided interstates and traveled the highways which allowed them to stop and explore construction projects, and any other interesting sites such as the World’s Largest Ball of String.  Mike and Betty also traveled to the Philippines, Spain, Hawaii, Alaska and Canada.

Mike, along with his wife Betty, inspired family and community members to achieve higher education. Their children earned post graduate degrees, and their grandchildren either have or are currently working on degrees.  Many of Mike’s students went on to further their education as well. Though suffering from dementia in his later years, Mike always enjoyed talking to former students and it brightened his day to hear of the impact he had on their life through his teaching.

Mike was preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Betty June, an infant son, Michael Ganzel and older sister, Wanda June, at the age of 7.

He is survived by: daughter, Anita and husband William Krondak; sons, Dr. Brian Ganzel and his wife, Dr. Toni Ganzel; Terry Ganzel, CAPT, JAGC, USN, (Ret) and his wife, Rhoda Ganzel, CDR, JAGC, USN, (Ret); seven grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. 

Services 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at the United Methodist Church in Pawnee City, Nebraska. Officiating Pastor Sherry Sklenar.  Visitation on Friday, March 2, 2018 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. Private  interment at the Otoe Cemetery, rural Oteo, Nebraska. Memorials to the United Methodist Church, Pawnee City, and/or Pawnee City Public School-FFA. Memorials can be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Joseph J. Harpenau, 91, of Topeka, formerly of Seneca, died February 27, 2018, a Via Christi Nursing Home in Wichita.

Joe was born on December 28, 1926 to Joseph C. and Philomena A. Cheray Harpenau in Long Beach, California.  In 1934, at the age of 8, Joe moved with his family to Kansas.   He attended Sts. Peter & Paul Grade School and graduated from Sts. Peter & Paul High School in 1944. He enlisted with the U.S. Navy and served in Korea during the Korean Conflict. He served on the USS912 ship; it carried tanks, jeeps and soldiers to the beaches.

After being discharged Joe worked for the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) for 38 years; retiring in 1988.

Joe was a passionate amateur radio operator for many years, going by the call letters WBØZEQ, and was a member of the Kaw Valley Amateur Radio Club in Topeka. On April 16, 1986 he was allowed into the Wireless Room of the R.M.S. Queen Mary, at Long Beach, California as an amateur Radio Operator, a fact he was very proud of.

He was a member of the Earl W. Taylor Post #21 of the American Legion, the Seneca Memorial Post #7458 of the VFW, the Knights of Columbus Council 1769.  On March 9, 2009 Joe stood on the Pyramid, the Official Center of the World, located in Felicity, California.
He is survived by his brother, Robert Harpenau of Wichita a sister Ruth Crawford of Wichita. Several nieces and nephews.

A rosary will be at 10:00 A.M. prior to the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. The Burial will be in the church cemetery.

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

Brete William DeBord, 63, of Topeka, KS formerly of Centralia, KS passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2018.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Popkess Memorial Chapel in Seneca, KS. Visitation will be from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Inurnment will be held at a later date and time.  www.popkessmortuaries.com

Vera Jo Harnish, 94, of Hiawatha died Wednesday evening, January 24th, 2018, at the Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha, where she was a resident.

Vera Jo was born November 9, 1923, at her parents’ home in Salemsberg, Kansas with the assistance of her two grandmothers.  She graduated from Smolan High School May 1941.  Following high school she entered nurses training at Asbury Protestant Hospital Salina, Kansas and received her registered nursing degree in January 1945.   As a nurse, Vera Jo worked 40 years as a surgical, obstetrical, pediatric, evening supervisor, industrial, public health and school nurse. 

In 1946, she married Frank Huna who died suddenly in 1950.  Following his death she met and married Eugene Harnish February 18, 1951 in Valeda, Kansa.  After living many places, they moved to Hiawatha in 2000 and had celebrated 60 years of marriage prior to Eugene’s death.

Throughout Vera Jo’s life she volunteered multiple places and participated in various church and Tri Sigma activities since retiring from nursing.  Most recently she was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church, Hiawatha, Kansas.

Vera Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Carl Nelson and Margarite Drevits-Nelson, husband Eugene and sister Carol.  She is survived by her brother in law Art Harnish and wife Shirley, cousins, numerous nieces and nephews and great and great-great nieces and nephews.

She and Eugene had no children but enjoyed their cats and dogs and babysitting some delightful children.

Memorial services are planned for 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 5, at the Zion Lutheran Church in Hiawatha, with Reverend Michael Dunaway and Reverend Sean Kilgo will officiate. Inurnment will follow at the Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Memorial contributions will be made to Maple Heights in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St, Hiawatha 66434.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Patricia Anne Liller was born to Charles and Louise (O’Haver) Liller on May 24, 1946 in Baltimore, Maryland.   She grew up in Baltimore and attended schools there.  She married Jerry LaFrance and they had Lita, Joe and Karen and lived in California.  Jerry passed away at a young age.  After Jerry passed away returned to Maryland for about ten years. She met Mac and the two of them and their family moved to Nebraska in June of 1977 when Mac started working for the railroad.

Pat was united in marriage to Orland “Mac” McKinney, Jr. on September 29, 1971 at Wahoo, Nebraska. To this union were born, Kevin, Kelly and Dennis. 

 Pat worked as a waitress for the Veteran’s Club in Syracuse.  Later Pat and Mac owned the Ace Café and the Country Cottage Inn and Daycare in Tecumseh, Nebraska.  She provided childcare for many children in Tecumseh for years which she dearly loved. 

 She was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church in Tecumseh, Nebraska where she volunteered as an Awana instructor.  Pat was also a member of the VFW and Legion Auxiliary in Tecumseh.

  Pat enjoyed shopping, reading, crocheting, was a huge Baltimore Orioles fan and especially loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

  She passed away at Bryan Medical Center East in Lincoln, Nebraska, Friday, February 23, 2018 at the age of 71 years.     

  Pat is survived by her sons, Joe LaFrance and wife Janet of Odenton, MD, Kevin McKinney and wife Terri of Tecumseh and Dennis McKinney of Tecumseh, daughters, Lita Bosch of Pasadena, MD, Karen (LaFrance) Belding and husband Darrin of Tecumseh, Kelly Simmons and husband Mike, Jr. of Omaha and Haleigh McKinney of Bellevue, grandchildren, Kristan, Ashley and Chelsea Bosch, Robert and Hannah LaFrance, Ronny and Andrew Hazen, Trish McKinney and Milayna McKinney, numerous great-grandchildren, sister, Linda Tomsick of Reno, NV and nieces and nephews. 

  She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands Jerry LaFrance and Orland "Mac" McKinney, Jr. (5/20/2002), brother, Donny and sisters, Sandra Jones, Gean Deege and Bernie Graham. 

   Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at the First Baptist Church in Tecumseh, Nebraska, with Rev. Hugh Giesbrecht officiating.

   Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. Monday, February 26, 2018 at the Wherry Mortuary in Tecumseh, Nebraska.

   Memorials in lieu of flowers may go to Shriners Hospital for Children.

   Interment will be in the Tecumseh Cemetery, Tecumseh, Nebraska.

   Online condolences may be left @ www.wherrymortuary.com.

Sharon S. Dieckhoff, 74, of Tecumseh, passed away at her home in Tecumseh, Nebraska, Saturday, February 24, 2018.  She was born to Harry Gerold and Ruby Ellen (Moreland) Myers on December 4, 1943 in Lemons, Missouri.  Her family moved to the Cook, Nebraska area when she was a young girl and she attended Cook Public Schools graduating from Cook High School in 1961.  She was united in marriage to Arnold Dieckhoff on July 4, 1964 at Martin Luther Church, Johnson, Nebraska.  To this union one son was born, Arnold Dieckhoff, Jr. Arnold and Sharon made their home on their family farm about 5 1/2 miles northeast of Tecumseh.  She and Arnold were long time members of Martin Luther Church.  Arnold passed away December 30, 2008.
  Sharon worked for the Campbell Soup Company in Tecumseh as well as being a farm wife and mother.  In April of 2009, Sharon moved to the Tecumseh Manor.  In her spare time she enjoyed reading, walking and visiting with friends and attending bible study groups. She loved having coffee and fellowship with her friends at the Tecumseh Manor.
  She is survived by her son, Arnold Dieckhoff, Jr. and special friend Tonya Raw and her son Alexander of Kansas City, KS, sister, Judy "Ruby" Rezac, brother, Jerry "Vonn" Myers, sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary Kay Hengon, Carol Dieckhoff, Ralph and Donna Dieckhoff, Eleanor and Larry Hart, Linda and Roger Vogel and Sharon and Jim Gnade, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.  
 Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Arnold, and brother, Albert. 
    Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 1, 2018 at the Martin Luther Church, rural Johnson, Nebraska with Rev. Ken Tubbesing officiating.
  Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 5-6 p.m. Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at the Wherry Mortuary in Tecumseh, Nebraska and one hour prior to the service at the church.
  Memorials may go to the family’s choice.
   Interment will be in the Martin Luther Cemetery, rural Johnson, Nebraska.
  Online condolences may be left @ www.wherrymortuary.com.
 

Richard Marion Lassiter, 82, of Denison, KS passed away Monday, February 26, 2018 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, KS. He was born August 23, 1935 in Valley Falls, KS the son of Frank Marion and Sarah Elizabeth (Boydston) Lassiter.

Richard graduated from Denison High School in 1954. He proudly served in the United States Army Reserves from 1958 – 1964 as a military policeman. Richard was a farmer, he worked as a coach carpenter for Santa Fe Railroad, he worked for the State of Kansas for the Fish and Game Department and he also worked for the City of Denison. He attended the Evangel United Methodist Church in Holton. Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping.

Richard married Rosalie E. Bailey on January 26, 1959 in Paonia, CO; they shared over 60 years of marriage. Rosalie survives of the home. Other survivors include his children, Janette “Beth” Lassiter-Smith of Topeka, KS, Richard “Dick” Lassiter (Thresa) of Denison, KS, Keith Lassiter of Denison, KS and Jennifer Ingels (Kevin) of Holton, KS; a brother, Don (Elke) Lassiter of Ozawkie; 6 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Richard was preceded by infant sister, Lida Lassiter and a brother, Francis Lassiter.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, March 2, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Denison Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Denison Parks and Rec 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.
 

William Lee “Bill” Emery, 88, of Rushville, Missouri died Sunday, February 25, 2018 at his home.

Mass of Christian burial will be Thursday, March 1, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Benedict’s Church with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant.  Interment with military honors will follow in Sugar Creek Cemetery, Rushville, MO.  A parish rosary will be recited on Wednesday, Feb. 28, at 5:30 p.m. followed by a Masonic Service at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home; the family will then receive friends until 7:30 p.m. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to ­­­­­­St. Benedict Parish and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.  Condolences and memories may be shared at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Gerald L. Studer, 75, of Wathena, Kansas passed away Sunday, February 25, 2018 at the Wathena Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

Gerald was born on August 11, 1942 in Wathena, Kansas to Peter & Catherine (Fahey) Studer.

He was a member of the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Wathena, Kansas. Gerald was a farmer. He loved his chickens & field work. Gerald was very fond of his lock collection, playing bingo & taking 4-wheeler rides. He always looked forward to the holidays & having cookouts with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors: brothers, John Studer, Wathena, Larry Studer, Wathena, Robert Studer (Wendy), St. Joseph, Missouri & Tony Studer (Shelley), Wathena.

Sisters, Marilyn Perry, St. Joseph, Missouri, Cathy Coy (Vernie), Wathena, & Janice Studer, Wathena.

Numerous nieces & nephews

Funeral Service: 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, February 27, 2018

At the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home, Wathena, Kansas.
Friends may call after 12 noon Monday. There is no scheduled visitation.
Burial: Mount Calvary Cemetery, Wathena, Kansas.
Memorials: Wathena EMS, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church or the Wathena Nursing Home Activity Fund.

Alice Savala, 82, of Falls City, NE, passed away February 23, 2018 at Falls City. She was born August 26, 1935 at Fowler, CO to Donald and Mary Anna (Magert) Cook, she was the oldest of eight children.

She married Allen Ray Gardner in Amarillo, TX and he passed away. She then married Phillip Savala, he also passed away.

She and her first husband were both hairdressers and owned a beauty salon together. In Falls City she was very active in her church and participated in the praise and worship team. She and Phillip led worship and she loved to sing. She attended Northridge Church at Falls City.

Alice is survived by a sister, Shirley of Texas, grandson, Joshua Willis of Virginia, Jacob Willis and his wife Brittany of Omaha, NE, grandchildren, Amory, Owen and Becket, special friends, Pam and Mark Harkendorff. She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Rayne Willis, siblings, Donald, Thomas, Samson, Walter, Donna and Richard.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at 2:00 PM at Steele Cemetery.

Open visitation will begin on Monday afternoon at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Dorlene M. Blodig, 84, of Atchison, Kansas, died unexpectedly on Friday, February 23, 2018.

Mass of Christian burial will be Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Benedict’s Church with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A parish and Daughters of Isabella rosary will be recited on Tuesday, Feb. 27th, at 6:30 p.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Parish or St. Benedict’s Abbey and may be left in care of the funeral home. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Dorlene was born on September 17, 1933 the daughter of Daniel W. and Nellie J. (Lee) George in Garden City, Kansas. She attended Independence Country Grade School in Sublette, Kansas and graduated from Dodge City High School in 1951. She then completed Wilcox Beauty School in 1952.

Dorlene and George B. Blodig were united in marriage on August 26, 1958 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Garden City, Kansas. George preceded her in death on December 4, 2016.

She began her employment in Garden City, Kansas at Milody Beauty Shop in the Warren Hotel until she moved to Atchison, Kansas in 1958. She continued as a beautician in Atchison at Cut-Curl Beauty Shop. After having children, Dorlene became a stay at home mother. She did alterations for different people over the years and loved making tea towels to sell at the church fiestas. Dorlene had a great love for dancing.

Dorlene and her best friend, Joan Krupinski, visited all four nursing homes as often as they could and they really enjoyed how happy that the residents were to see them. She also loved caring for her older neighbors.

She enjoyed her family and loved spending time with them doing crafts, reading, and showing them how to embroider and sew. She was always so proud of her children. When she became a grandma, Dorlene baby sat her grandchildren; a job she loved because they were all so special to her. Her great grandchildren all called her “Candi”. She cared deeply about her family and she always stayed in touch with everyone.

Dorlene was a member of St. Benedict Parish and formerly Daughters of Isabella. She was a community civilian liason officer for the Bootstrapper from 1971-1974. She also was previously a member of the Junior Guild and the Red Hat Group.

Survivors include one son, Jeffrey (Allison) Blodig, Ozawkie, KS, three daughters, Debbie (Billy) Beagle, Atchison, KS, Deidre Keith, Kansas City, MO, Denise Blodig (Gene Gregory), Franktown, CO, twelve grandchildren, Jeremy Beagle, Lance Beagle, Ashley (Keith) Griffin, Samantha Keith, Sidney Keith, Justin Gregory, Reed Gregory, Lane Gregory, Nicci Gregory, Pierce Gregory, Chris Gregory, Alex Crouch, eight great grandchildren and a sister-in-law, Bernita George.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband George, a daughter, Mary Carol Blodig, brothers, Delmar, Deloyd, Dorrell and Dannell George, and a sister, Deloyce George.

Dr. George J. Baumgartner, 93, Atchison, Kansas, died unexpectedly on February 10, 2018 at the Atchison Hospital. He was born on June 27, 1924, to Andrew and Pauline (Miller) Baumgartner. He attended St. Benedict’s Grade School, Maur Hill Prep and was graduated from St. Benedict’s College in 1945 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree, cum laude, in chemistry. As a college student, he worked for the Abbey Student Press.

In the summer of 1943, he worked as a mechanical radio inspector for Aircraft Accessories Corporation in Kansas City, KS. The next summer, he worked as a chemist for the Kansas City Testing Laboratory. After graduation from college, he was employed as an inorganic chemist by the Midwest Research Institute in Kansas City, MO.

In September 1946, he was admitted to the Graduate School of the University of Notre Dame which he attended until 1949. From 1949 to 1950, he attended Ohio State University to which his research professor had transferred.

In the fall of 1950, he became instructor of chemistry at Mount St. Scholastica College in Atchison. He received his Doctor of Philosophy degree in chemistry from the University of Notre Dame in 1953. Mount St. Scholastica College appointed him a full professor in 1956. In 1966, he was made chairman of the natural sciences and mathematics division of the Mount College. He was appointed assistant academic dean in 1967 and academic dean in 1968 and became a member of the seven member board of directors of Mount St. Scholastica College.

Dr. Baumgartner was an active participant in merger considerations between Mount St. Scholastica College and St. Benedict’s College.

In the fall of 1971, he was granted a year’s sabbatical which he took at the University of Maryland studying environmental science and nuclear chemistry. While there, he used the nuclear reactor of the National Bureau of Standards at Gaithersburg, MD, in his studies.

In the fall of 1972, he returned to Benedictine as a chemistry professor. He was appointed assistant academic dean in 1973 and academic dean in 1977, a post which he filled until his retirement in 1988. In 1981, Benedictine College instituted the Educator of the Year program for faculty and administrators. Dr. Baumgartner was the first administrator named the Educator of the Year.

Dr. Baumgartner was awarded six National Science Foundation grants for college chemistry professors: at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science, Indiana University, Rensselaer Polytechnic University, Michigan State University and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

He was a member of the American Chemical Society and of Delta Epsilon Sigma, a National Scholastic Honor Society. In his retirement, he was an adjunct chemistry professor for Highland Community College for ten semesters. He was a member of the board of the Atchison Salvation Army and its secretary for most of those years.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Barbara Ann Stotts Baumgartner, the daughter of Eugene R. and Mary Frances (Harris) Stotts Beard and beloved stepdaughter of Harold O. Beard of Carthage, MO.

They married June 7, 1954, and are the parents of six children: Virginia Ann, Thomas Andrew (Diane Howard), Joan Cecelia Taylor (Raymond), David Francis (Charlotte), Stephen Joseph, and Mary Constance Broski (Mark). They have nine grandchildren, two step grandchildren and three step great grandchildren. He is also survived by one sister Rosina Halpin (Joseph), Arlington, TX.

In 2016, Dr. & Mrs. Baumgartner were awarded Benedictine College’s highest honor, The Cross of the Order of St. Benedict.

His parents and two sisters, Sr. Rosina Baumgartner, OSB, and Pauline Amrein preceded him in death.

Mass of Christian burial will be concelebrated by the Monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey on Monday, February 26, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Benedict’s Church with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. The rosary will be recited on Sunday, Feb. 25, at 3:00 p.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 5:00 p.m. Memorial contributions are suggested to Benedictine College, St. Benedict Parish, St. Benedict’s Abbey or Mount St. Scholastica and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home, Inc. 913-367-6403 Dorlene M. Blodig 1933 – 2018 Dorlene M. Blodig, 84, of Atchison, Kansas, died unexpectedly on Friday, February 23, 2018. Mass of Christian burial will be Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Benedict’s Church with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A parish and Daughters of Isabella rosary will be recited on Tuesday, Feb. 27th, at 6:30 p.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Parish or St. Benedict’s Abbey and may be left in care of the funeral home. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.arensbergpruett.com. Dorlene was born on September 17, 1933 the daughter of Daniel W. and Nellie J. (Lee) George in Garden City, Kansas. She attended Independence Country Grade School in Sublette, Kansas and graduated from Dodge City High School in 1951. She then completed Wilcox Beauty School in 1952. Dorlene and George B. Blodig were united in marriage on August 26, 1958 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Garden City, Kansas. George preceded her in death on December 4, 2016. She began her employment in Garden City, Kansas at Milody Beauty Shop in the Warren Hotel until she moved to Atchison, Kansas in 1958. She continued as a beautician in Atchison at Cut-Curl Beauty Shop. After having children, Dorlene became a stay at home mother. She did alterations for different people over the years and loved making tea towels to sell at the church fiestas. Dorlene had a great love for dancing. Dorlene and her best friend, Joan Krupinski, visited all four nursing homes as often as they could and they really enjoyed how happy that the residents were to see them. She also loved caring for her older neighbors. She enjoyed her family and loved spending time with them doing crafts, reading, and showing them how to embroider and sew. She was always so proud of her children. When she became a grandma, Dorlene baby sat her grandchildren; a job she loved because they were all so special to her. Her great grandchildren all called her “Candi”. She cared deeply about her family and she always stayed in touch with everyone. Dorlene was a member of St. Benedict Parish and formerly Daughters of Isabella. She was a community civilian liason officer for the Bootstrapper from 1971-1974. She also was previously a member of the Junior Guild and the Red Hat Group. Survivors include one son, Jeffrey (Allison) Blodig, Ozawkie, KS, three daughters, Debbie (Billy) Beagle, Atchison, KS, Deidre Keith, Kansas City, MO, Denise Blodig (Gene Gregory), Franktown, CO, twelve grandchildren, Jeremy Beagle, Lance Beagle, Ashley (Keith) Griffin, Samantha Keith, Sidney Keith, Justin Gregory, Reed Gregory, Lane Gregory, Nicci Gregory, Pierce Gregory, Chris Gregory, Alex Crouch, eight great grandchildren and a sister-in-law, Bernita George. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband George, a daughter, Mary Carol Blodig, brothers, Delmar, Deloyd, Dorrell and Dannell George, and a sister, Deloyce George.

Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home, Inc. 913-367-6403 Dr. George J. Baumgartner 1924 – 2018 Dr. George J. Baumgartner, 93, Atchison, Kansas, died unexpectedly on February 10, 2018 at the Atchison Hospital. He was born on June 27, 1924, to Andrew and Pauline (Miller) Baumgartner. He attended St. Benedict’s Grade School, Maur Hill Prep and was graduated from St. Benedict’s College in 1945 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree, cum laude, in chemistry. As a college student, he worked for the Abbey Student Press. In the summer of 1943, he worked as a mechanical radio inspector for Aircraft Accessories Corporation in Kansas City, KS. The next summer, he worked as a chemist for the Kansas City Testing Laboratory. After graduation from college, he was employed as an inorganic chemist by the Midwest Research Institute in Kansas City, MO. In September 1946, he was admitted to the Graduate School of the University of Notre Dame which he attended until 1949. From 1949 to 1950, he attended Ohio State University to which his research professor had transferred. In the fall of 1950, he became instructor of chemistry at Mount St. Scholastica College in Atchison. He received his Doctor of Philosophy degree in chemistry from the University of Notre Dame in 1953. Mount St. Scholastica College appointed him a full professor in 1956. In 1966, he was made chairman of the natural sciences and mathematics division of the Mount College. He was appointed assistant academic dean in 1967 and academic dean in 1968 and became a member of the seven member board of directors of Mount St. Scholastica College. Dr. Baumgartner was an active participant in merger considerations between Mount St. Scholastica College and St. Benedict’s College. In the fall of 1971, he was granted a year’s sabbatical which he took at the University of Maryland studying environmental science and nuclear chemistry. While there, he used the nuclear reactor of the National Bureau of Standards at Gaithersburg, MD, in his studies.

Jaroslav “Sid” Sedlacek, 95, of Holton, KS passed away Monday, February 19, 2018 at his home in Holton, KS. He was born April 28, 1922 in Abie, Nebraska the son of Frank and Theresa (Stach) Sedlacek.

Sid graduated from Rossville High School in 1940. After high school Sid served in the United States Army during WW II. After his enlistment in the Army he came home to his family farm in the Whiting area where he continued to farm for over fifty years until his retirement in 2000.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Libbie Elsik and Viola Anderly; four brothers, Zdenek, Raymond, Victor and Jerry Sedlacek; and one nephew, Dale Elsik.

Sid is survived by one brother, Louis Sedlacek of Prague, NE; three nieces, Pam Todd of Midlothin, TX, Susan Anderly of Phoenix, AZ and Kelly Luth of Little Rock, AR; five nephews, Alvin Elsik of San Antonio, TX, Gary Anderly of Phoenix, AZ, Steven Anderly of Phoenix, AZ and Russell Sedlacek of Lincoln, NE.

A memorial graveside service with military honors will be held at Prague National Cemetery in Prague, Nebraska at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the Jackson County Senior Citizen Center 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

Doris Widerburg, 84, of Lawrence, KS, formerly of Overbrook, passed away Thursday, February 22, 2018 at her home. She was born September 28, 1933 in Valencia, KS, the daughter of Virgil H. and Agnes (Banaka) Snoddy.

Doris graduated Rossville High School. She had lived in the Overbrook community for 25 years. She had also previously lived in Lawrence for 9 years, Topeka for 14 years and Los Angeles, CA for 5 years. Doris was a homemaker.

Survivors include her 2 daughters, Elizabeth G. Stewart (Alan) of Lenexa, KS and Jennifer L. Unekis (David) of Lawrence; her son, Lewis Tyrone “Ty” Rinehart (Nancy) of Baldwin City, KS; 5 grandchildren, Rory Moran, Joshua Moran and Adeline Grace Unekis, Aubrey and Rhett Rinehart and great-grandson, Corwin Moran.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton with burial to follow in the Netawaka Cemetery. Family will greet friends Tuesday morning from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. Memorials may be given to the Mid-America Nutrition Program or Prairie Paws Animal Shelter both in Ottawa c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visitwww.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Earl Joseph Hartter, 92, of Lenexa, KS died Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at the Overland Park Regional Hospital.

He was born January 16, 1926 in Sabetha, KS the son of Joe and Ida (Aeschliman) Hartter.

Earl attended Sabetha Schools participating in many school activities and sports, graduating in 1944. He was inducted into the Army after graduation, receiving basic and advanced training at Camp Robinson Arkansas and Fort Benning Georgia.  He served with the 28th Infantry Division in Europe as a rifleman returning to the United States after the War in Europe, and was reassigned to the 2nd Infantry Division at Camp Swift Texas. After discharge from the service he returned to Sabetha and entered into partnership with his father in Hartter Oil Company.  He later farmed west of Hiawatha for several years.  Earl then became a member of the Kansas Highway Patrol serving as an Examiner, Trooper and Sergeant in Pittsburg, the Kansas City area, the Kansas Turnpike, again the Kansas City area Johnson, Wyandotte, Leavenworth and Miami Counties.  After retiring from the Patrol in 1981 he was employed in the Johnson County Kansas Appraisers Office retiring in 1988 as Chief Deputy of Commercial & Personal Property.

During his working years he was a Charter member of the Kansas City area Major Case Squad, a Graduate of the F.B.I. National Academy, a District Governor of the Kansas Peace Officers Association, a Master Mason, a Scottish Rite Mason, an Abdallah Shriner, Legionnaire, and Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  He attended Heartland Honor Flight for WWII veterans October 2013. Earl enjoyed camping and the outdoors with his wife and children.  For several years after retirement, Earl and LaVonne enjoyed traveling in their motorhome to Alaska, the lower 48 states, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, George Hartter; his grandson, Daniel Franco; and his sister, Mildred Gillispie.

Earl married LaVonne Marie Bauman on August 15, 1948 in Sabetha, she survives.  He is also survived by a son, Dr. Mark Earl Hartter of Lee's Summit, MO; three daughters, Deanna Lou Franco and Cynthia Marie Vermilye, both of Olathe, KS, and Suzanne May Banks of Fenton, MO; six grandsons, David Franco, Matthew Vermilye, Austen Banks, Jesse Hartter, Ross Hartter, and Dillon Banks; three great grandsons, Ryan Richeson, Daniel Vermilye, and William Franco; and four great granddaughters, Paige Vermilye, Cecilia Franco, Makayla Banks and Leah Banks.

Funeral service will be Monday, February 26, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at the Apostolic Christian Church in Sabetha, KS. Visitation will be held Sunday, February 25, 2018 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha.  Interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Sabetha V.F.W. Post #7285. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation or the Apostolic Christian Home, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, Kansas 66534.  www.popkessmortuaries.com

Tanner Dean Wolfe, 16, of Atchison, KS, passed away Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at his home.

Funeral service will be 12:00 PM on Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS, with The Rev. Dr. Rachel Danner officiating.  Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.  Family will receive prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the funeral home.  In lieu of flower memorials are suggested to help defray funeral expenses and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Tanner was born August 24, 2001, in Atchison, KS, the son of Joseph and Samantha (Goodman) Wolfe.  He attended Atchison High School and earned a spot on the Varsity Baseball team. Tanner was a member of TRIO and JAG at Atchison High School.  He loved baseball, spending time with his siblings and friends.  Tanner was a story teller, enjoyed scary movies, fishing and cooking egg sandwiches at midnight.  He was very organized and everything had to be clean.

Tanner is survived by his parents, Joseph and Samantha Wolfe of the home, a brother, Matthew, sisters, Gracie and Nevaeh Wolfe all of the home, maternal grandparents, Jim and Pam Goodman, Atchison, KS, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, godmother, Lisa Phillips, and special friends, Sam Avey and Chris Wallace.

He was preceded in death by paternal grandparents, Shirley Piper and Leroy Wolfe, great grandparents, Darlene and Leslie Eylar.

Alfred H. "Alf" Roeder, 89, of Seneca, died Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca.

He was born on August 31, 1928 on a farm near Seneca, to Leo G. and Frances Shaeffler Roeder.  He attended Diamond Country School before attending Sts. Peter & Paul; where he graduated from the 8th Grade.  He graduated from Baileyville High School with the Class of 1946. After graduation, he served his country during the Korean War as a member of Battery A 145th FA Battalion; as a member of the Artillery division. He was honorably discharged in 1952.

As a young man Alf began farming with his brother Melvin, and they had a cow calf livestock operation, and operated a custom corn shelling business. He also enjoyed helping his father buying and selling farm equipment. After the death of his Father, he took over Roeder Implements.  He expanded and specialized in AC Round Balers and New Holland Bale Wagons.  He was business minded and knew when to buy and when to sell.  In 1981, he purchased shares in the Hiawatha John Deere Dealership.

On December 1, 1984 he married Darlene Stallbaumer Nolte at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. The couple celebrated 33 years of marriage.

Alfred was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, St Joseph’s Society, the Knights of Columbus Council 1769 and the Seneca Veterans of Foreign War. He enjoyed bowling, playing cards, dancing and farming.  

He was preceded in death by his father, Leo George on August 29, 1970; his mother Frances Caroline on November 29, 1969; brothers, Matthias Roeder on December 15, 1989 and Melvin Roeder on June 11, 2013; and a sister, Viola Schmidt on November 2, 1994. A grandchild Jason Nolte on June 21, 2014.

He is survived by his wife, Darlene; and step-children Sharon (Daniel) Ketter of Manhattan, Robert (Kathleen) Nolte of Seneca, Thomas (Marilyn) Nolte of Centralia, Kris (Denise) Nolte of Seneca, Carol (Todd) Surdez of Vermillion and Janell (David) Holt of Topeka. 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Many nieces and nephews that were very fond of their uncle.  

Rosaries are 2 and 7 P.M. Thursday, February 22nd at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 A.M. Friday, February 23, 2018 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Ricky Dean Huey, age 64 of Nemaha, passed away Thursday, February 15, 2018.

Survivors include his daughters and sons-in-law Candy Brown and Rocky of Topeka, KS, Misty Huey of Auburn, Peggy Adams and Rick of Verdon, Dawn Allgood-Hale and Trevor of Red Oak, IA; grandchildren: Chance, Taylor, Sidney, Spencer, Payton, Lillian, Austin, Caitlyn; great-grandson Zaidyn; sister and brother-in-law Paula and Gary Hayes of Shubert, brother and sister-in-law Jim and Linda Huey of IA; other relatives and many friends.

A celebration of life will be held Friday, February 23, 2:00 p.m. at the American Legion Club in Auburn.  

Memorials suggested to family choice.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn. 
 

Justice LouAnne Scoggins, infant daughter of Kyle and Meghan Friend Scoggins, went to be with Jesus, Saturday morning, February 17, 2018, at Hiawatha Community Hospital.

Also surviving are her siblings: Destiney, Patience, GraceLynn, and Marshall, all of the home in Horton; grandparents are David and Tracy Merz of Everest, Cindy Benton and Rodney Scoggins of Hiawatha; great-grandparents include Sally and Clifford Friend of Horton, and Alma Carter of Hiawatha. Several aunts, uncles, and cousins also survive.

The family will meet with friends from 10:30 until 11 a.m. Friday, February 23, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha. Ryan VanPeursem will officiate the service which will start at 11.a.m. Burial will follow at Bablyland at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Donations to help with expenses may be left with Chapel Oaks Funeral Home.

Leave a message with the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Justice LouAnne Scoggins, infant daughter of Kyle and Meghan Friend Scoggins, went to be with Jesus, Saturday morning, February 17, 2018, at Hiawatha Community Hospital.

Also surviving are her siblings: Destiney, Patience, GraceLynn, and Marshall, all of the home in Horton; grandparents are David and Tracy Merz of Everest, Cindy Benton and Rodney Scoggins of Hiawatha; great-grandparents include Sally and Clifford Friend of Horton, and Alma Carter of Hiawatha. Several aunts, uncles, and cousins also survive.

The family will meet with friends from 10:30 until 11 a.m. Friday, February 23, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha. Ryan VanPeursem will officiate the service which will start at 11.a.m. Burial will follow at Bablyland at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Donations to help with expenses may be left with Chapel Oaks Funeral Home.

Leave a message with the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Ricky Dean Huey, age 64 of Nemaha, passed away Thursday, February 15, 2018.

Survivors include his daughters and sons-in-law Candy Brown and Rocky of Topeka, KS, Misty Huey of Auburn, Peggy Adams and Rick of Verdon, Dawn Allgood-Hale and Trevor of Red Oak, IA; grandchildren: Chance, Taylor, Sidney, Spencer, Payton, Lillian, Austin, Caitlyn; great-grandson Zaidyn; sister and brother-in-law Paula and Gary Hayes of Shubert, brother and sister-in-law Jim and Linda Huey of IA; other relatives and many friends.

A celebration of life will be held Friday, February 23, 2:00 p.m. at the American Legion Club in Auburn.

Memorials suggested to family choice.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.

Alice Eickhoff, 82, of Falls City, NE, passed away February 20, 2018 at Falls City. She was born December 7, 1935 at Falls City to James “J.O.” and Eva (Strough) Richmond.

On May 13, 1956, Alice married Dearl Herman Eickhoff at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church six miles north

Alice was raised at Falls City and graduated from Falls City High School in 1954. Following high school she worked for a lawyer and then as a bookkeeper at the Ford garage. The couple established their home eight miles northeast of Falls City where they lived for 49 years. Alice dedicated her life to raising her four children and assisting her husband with the farm following marriage. When her children were older she worked as a bookkeeper for Scholl Fertilizer until retiring in 1994. She was a member of Christ Lutheran Church at Falls City and the Women’s Missionary League of her church.

Alice enjoyed reading, counted cross stitch and spending time with her children and grandchildren. 

Alice is survived by her husband Dearl of Falls City, children, Martin and his wife Mary of Falls City, Darren and his wife Donna of Falls City, Danette Seelig and her husband Joe of Horseshoe Bay, TX, Sean and his wife Michelle of St. Louis, MO, brothers, James Richmond, Jr. of Kansas City, MO Gary Richmond of Citrus Springs, FL, Dale Richmond and his wife Fran of Kansas City, Douglas and his wife Heather of Kansas City, sister, Patricia Scheitel of Falls City, ten grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2018 at 10:30 AM at Christ Lutheran Church with Reverend Daniel Gifford officiating. Inurnment will be in Silver Creek Cemetery.

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

George H. Johnson, Jr., 92, of Troy, Kansas died Tuesday, February 20, 2018.

George was born on July 11, 1925 in Troy, Kansas to George H. and Clara (Dittemore) Johnson, Sr.  He served in the U.S. Army during Korea from 1950 until 1953 and received several medals.  George also served on the Doniphan County Rural Water District #5 Board for 18 years.  He received the Kansas Bankers Soil Conservation and Windbreak Awards.  George farmed and raised livestock all of his life.

He is a member of the Community of Christ Church in Fanning, Kansas

George married Erma Weishaar on April 21, 1954 in Atchison, Kansas.  She survives of the home.  He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Mark Johnson, an infant son, Jay, an infant daughter, Ann, brother, Bob Johnson, sister, Doris Delk.

Additional survivors include his son, Jerry Johnson (Janie) of Troy

                                                    Daughter-in-law, Brenda Johnson of Country Club, Missouri

                                                    Grandchildren; Jed Johnson (Angela), Jay Johnson (Morgan),

                                                    Jena Tharman (Carl),  Brian Johnson (Allison)  

                                                    7 great-grandchildren and one on the way.

                                                    Sister, Clara Belle Culp

                                                    Brothers; Paul and Don Johnson

FUNERAL:  Friday, February 23, 2018 – 10:30 A.M.
At:  Community of Christ Church in Fanning, Kansas                                
Visitation;  family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the funeral (9-10 AM) at the church. 
Friends may call after 9 A.M. Thursday, at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas.
Burial: St. Charles Catholic Cemetery in Troy
Memorials: family suggests either the Community of Christ Church or St. Charles Cemetery

Chloe Louise Workman was born to Doug and Kellie (Johnson) Workman on October 1,1999 in Falls City, Nebraska.  She grew up in Humboldt and graduated from HTRS High School with the class of 2017 where she was salutatorian of her class.  After graduation Chloe continued her education at the University of Nebraska in Omaha where she made the Dean’s List for the Fall semester while studying Music Technology and English.  

Chloe was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church where she was baptized, attended Sunday School, served as an acolyte, sang in the choir and enjoyed performing special music with her voice, piano, trumpet and violin.  She was very involved in activities at HTRS during her high school years.  Some of her activities included: choir, band, where she played violin and was selected for Honor Band and Honor Choir, show choir and jazz band, drill team, speech, where she medaled in duet acting, humorous prose, serious prose, oral interpretation of drama and poetry. She was also involved in quiz bowl, HTRS Titan Youth Mentoring, served as student council representative for 3 yrs, Mock Trial, One Act, Math Contest Participant, cheerleader, sophomore vice president of her class and track student manager.  Chloe performed leading roles in Seussical the Musical, James and the Giant Peach and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.  She was crowned Richardson County Fair Queen in 2016 and was an active member of the National Honor Society, Quad County Historical Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and STARS, where she was in a leadership position. Chloe earned High Honor Roll throughout her high school career and was a letter winner in One Act, Mock Trial, Band, Chorus, Track, Quiz Bowl, Speech, Cheerleading and Drill Team.  She received the HTRS Music Leadership Award her Junior and Senior year.  Her Mock Trial team earned 8th place in 2015 and 5th place in 2016 in State Competition.  She received 2nd place in both Serious Prose and Poetry at the State Speech Contest in Kearney in 2017; she also placed 5th in Serious Prose and 6th in Humorous Prose at State Speech in 2016.   Chloe had a poem published in the America Library of Poetry entitled “Think and Watch and Hope” in 2017 and earned 1st place in the Bess Streeter Aldrich Writing Contest in her age group in 2017.   She was a member of two Nebraska All State Musicals, Seussical the Musical in 2015 and Smokey Joe’s Café in 2016.  With all of her involvements Chloe gave back to her community through many hours of community service because she loved Humboldt and the people that helped shape her life. 

Growing up she spent much of her time with long-time friends Lauren Patzel and Kendall Werts; together the three of them comprised "The Three Musketeers."  The girls thrived along with the rest of the HTRS speech team, where they dominated at speech competitions including winning State Speech under the guidance of Coach Linnerson.

She was extremely talented musically and was destined for greatness in her field of music. She was influenced by so many members of her musical family, from her great-grandparents, grandparents, parents and sisters. The latest instruments of choice were her ukulele and the cajon. She loved writing poetry and songs including music and lyrics. Chloe was passionate about so many things in life and enjoyed being outdoors, four-wheeling, camping, and especially spending time at her favorite place, The Pond. She loved going fishing, boating, on motorcycle rides and helping her Dad on the farm. Chloe loved cooking, watching movies and reading books with her Mom. She always looked forward to spending time with her older sister, Rachel, to whom she looked up to. Chloe and her sister Haley were two opposites that fit perfectly together. When they weren't eating Mexican or Cajun food they were singing their hearts out in Haley's car during their frequent jam-sessions. Her favorite indoor activities were attending concerts and musicals, especially at the Orpheum. She also loved to cook and only cook from her Harry Potter cookbook. Needless to say, her family quickly became her guinea pigs. Harry Potter was one of her many obsessions that included anything from Jack Sparrow to the Hobbit to her favorite band, Twenty One Pilots. Chloe's parent's favorite memories are those of Haley and Chloe playing music in the parlor, especially duets with Haley on the piano and Chloe on the violin. She will always be their little "ChloeBear."

Chloe passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, February 18, 2018 at the age of 18 years. 

  Left to cherish her beautiful memory are her loving parents, Doug and Kellie of Humboldt, sisters, Rachel Workman of Lincoln and Haley Workman of Omaha. Grandparents Larry and Jackie Johnson of Verdon; Maxine Workman of Humboldt; Great-Grandmother JoAnn Brandt of Falls City. Uncle Stuart (Ginger) Workman of Enterprise, KS and aunt Susan (Louis) Eagan and their daughter Katelin of Lexington, MO, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, family, and friends, including long-time special friend Noah Sherman of Kearney and her buddy Jack the Cat.  

Chloe was preceded in death by her grandfather, Robert “Bob” Workman, grandfather Ron Brandt and her uncle William "Bill" Johnson.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 24, 2018, at the United Methodist Church in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Dorothy Smith officiating.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Friday, February 23, 2018, at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska.  Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary.

Interment will be at the Humboldt Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials contributions may be given to the family’s choice with a later designation.

Messages of condolences can be shared at www.wherrymortuary.com

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

Lawrence E. “Larry” Hart, Jr., 61, of Atchison, Kansas, died unexpectedly Sunday, February 18, 2018.

A parish rosary will be recited on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Benedict’s Church with Mass of Christian burial to immediately follow the rosary.  Interment of cremated remains will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Luncheon and visitation will follow the burial at the Elk’s Lodge, 609 Kansas Ave.- Main Floor (entrance off of the alley) for all family and friends of Larry. Memorial contributions are suggested to Maur Hill-Mount Academy and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom final care has been entrusted.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.arensbergpruett.com.  Larry was an organ donor and was able to continue to do good for others, even after his death. 

Larry was born on November 7, 1956 to Lawrence and Jean (Pinderski) Hart in San Diego, California.  The family moved to Atchison in 1965.  Larry went to St. Benedict’s Grade School and graduated from Maur Hill Prep in 1974.  He attended college at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. 

In 1976, he began his employment with the Kansas State Department of Transportation as an Engineer Tech until 1986.  He then began employment with Atchison Home Health Equipment, working his way up to General Manager in 1988, and becoming a part owner of the business in 1997;  he continued working there until his death.

Larry was a forty year member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, he also had been a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Larry was a kind and giving man who worked hard and played hard.  He was half Irish and half polish; he always had a joke to tell and a whole lot of blarney along the way.  He loved spending time with family and friends and lived his life on his terms. 

Larry and Jane (Ramsey) were married on April 12, 1980, she survives of the home.  He has a daughter Tara of Lenexa, KS, and a son Tim (Ally) of Bennington, KS.  He is also survived by his sister, Teresa (Dan) Lohman, Kansas City, MO, a sister-in-law, Ruth Ann Ramsey, Atchison, KS, brother-in-law, Bill (Jan) Lancaster, Amarillo, TX.  His paternal aunt, Ellen (Hart) Cermak, Oklahoma City, OK, maternal aunt, Lillian (Pinderski) Jackowiak, Chicago, IL, nephews Ryan and Sean Lohman, Kansas City, MO, Drew (Kay) Feek, Atchison, KS, Richard (Sara) Lancaster, Amarillo, TX, Brian (Jen) Lancaster, Gainesville, FL, nieces Ericka Lohman, Kansas City, MO, Katlyn (John) Danher, Chicago, IL, Morgan Hull and Evie Ramsey, both of Atchison, KS.  Great niece and nephew twins, Marleigh and Everett, Gainesville, FL.  Larry has numerous cousins all over the United States; family was so important to him and he loved them with all of his heart. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Jean (Pinderski) Hart, his paternal and maternal grandparents, both paternal and maternal aunts and uncles, a cousin, Bob Nicoletti, his mother-in-law, Ruth (Rindom) Ramsey, and brothers-in-law, Richard and Glenn Ramsey.

He will be missed by his loyal dog Barley and his beloved cat Bella, they followed him everywhere. 

Ronald Eugene Woody Childs, 62, formally of Netawaka, KS. passed away Feb 19th, 2018 at his home in Russell, KS.

He was born April 2, 1955 to Robert N. and Martha Jane Childs. He graduated from Jackson Heights High School in 1973 and lived most of his life in the Netawaka area.

He married Sharon Fitzsimmons in 2017. She survives him. He was proceeded in death by his father. He is also survived by his mother, sister Barb Rick, and brother Mike all of Nebraska, his son Ryan Krista, daughters Staci Jason and Kerra Kyle, and 7 grandchildren.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be sent to Farmers State Bank Po Box 465 Holton KS 66436 in memory of Ron Childs. Pohlman Varner Peeler Mortuary 610 N Maple Russell KS 67665 785-483-221

Vaunda Lee (Wilcox) Rausch, 89, of Humboldt, Nebraska was born on May 13, 1928, on the family farm northeast of Table Rock, Nebraska to Harry and Beulah (Williamson) Wilcox. She attended country school near Table Rock and later graduated from Table Rock High School with the class of 1945. After graduating, Vaunda earned a teaching certificate from Peru Normal School and taught at various country schools in the area. She was united in marriage to Wayne Lee Rausch on September 24, 1950, at the United Methodist Church in Table Rock, Nebraska. The couple were proud parents of two children, Brad and Brenda. Vaunda spent the next 60 years of her life as a farm wife, from driving tractor to working livestock, she worked side by side with Wayne. In her spare time, Vaunda helped at the kid’s school, was a 4-H leader, a Sunday school teacher, and enjoyed gardening. As an only child, Vaunda spent a lot of time with her parents and she enjoyed that they moved to Humboldt upon retirement.

Vaunda took great pride in being a member of the United Methodist Church for over 60 years, serving on the courtesy committee for many years. She was also a 67-year member of the Crescent Rebekah’s Lodge # 100 serving in various offices over the years. Vaunda was very involved in her community, but her greatest enjoyment was her family, especially her grandchildren.

Vaunda passed away on Monday, February 19, 2018, at the Colonial Acres Nursing Home in Humboldt, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of eighty-nine years, nine months, and six days. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband of 67 years Wayne.

Vaunda is survived by her children: Brad (Cheryl) Rausch of rural Humboldt, NE; daughter Brenda (Bill) Douglas of Humboldt, NE; grandchildren: Brandon (Tiff Brejcha) Rausch of Dorchester, NE; Britt (Eric) Lee of Ft. Worth, TX; Shayne (Jenn Noel) Rausch of Hebron, NE; Blake (Kendra) Douglas of Humboldt, NE; Shanda (Jarred) Stutheit of Auburn, NE; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 22, 2018, at the United Methodist Church in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Dorothy Smith officiating.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 21, 2018, at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska. Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary.

Interment will be at the Humboldt Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humboldt United Methodist Church.

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

Services are entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-207 N. Nemaha ST. Humboldt, NE (402) 862-2915

Lyle Loring Kufahl, 86, of Wheaton, Kansas, died Sunday, February 18, 2018, at Community Hospital, Onaga.   He was a life-long resident of the community.

Lyle was born on January 26, 1932, in Wheaton, Kansas, the son of Loring H. and Irene C. Bosse Kufahl.  He attended local schools and graduated from Wheaton High School in 1950.

Lyle was a farmer and stockman and worked his entire adult life on the family farm.  He served on the Rural Fire Department Board and Wheaton School Board.  He was an active member of St. Luke Lutheran Church and held several different offices at the church including treasurer and trustee.  Lyle loved to play pitch and ping pong.

Lyle married Erma Jean Abitz on May 31, 1953, in Wheaton.  She survives at their home.

Lyle is also survived by his children; Gerry Kufahl (Roberta), Wheaton, Jay Kufahl (Susie), Wheaton, and Cindy Bryson (Chris), Wamego; his eight grandchildren, Bridget Kufahl, Michael Kufahl (Holly), Adam Kufahl, Aileen Taylor (Ryan), Holly Thomas (Josh), Maggie Kufahl, Tyler Bryson (Dorian), and Tara Shaw (Bret), eleven great-grandchildren; and his sister, Vera Teske.  Lyle was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, William Kufahl, Doris Orr and Alice Krohn.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, February 23, 2018, at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Wheaton, Kansas.  Reverend Terry DeGiovanni will be officiating.  Burial will follow at St. Luke Lutheran North Cemetery.  Lyle will lie-in-state on Thursday, beginning at 3:00 p.m. at the church, where the family will greet friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.  A prayer service will be held at 7:00 p.m.  They suggest memorial contributions to St. Luke Lutheran Church, and those may be sent in care of Campanella-Kufahl Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be made at www.campanellafuneral.com.

Due to the forecast for inclement weather, the funeral service for Curtis Lash, Sr., of McLouth, has been postponed from Thursday morning, February 22 to Friday afternoon February 23 at 2:00 at the Barnett Family Funeral Home, Oskaloosa.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Curtis Dean Lash, Sr., 89, of McLouth, died Monday, February 19, 2018 at his home.

He was born October 7, 1928 in St. Joseph, MO, the son John Ralph and Mamie Rosella Reno Lash. He was a 1946 graduate of Atchison High School and attended Plumbing Trade School Central for a year of training. He was a U.S. Army Veteran of WWII, serving 1946 to 1947.  Curtis was the co-owner and operator of Jayhawk Radiator and Jayhawk/Mid America Radiator in Kansas City, KS, retiring in 1994, but remained involved in the business until his death. He attended McLouth First Baptist Church, and  was an avid golfer.

He was married to Peggy Lee Yeager on September 27, 1953 in Kansas City, KS, she survives at the home. He is also survived by two sons, Curtis (Phyllis) Lash, Jr., McLouth, Michael Lee (Vickie) Lash, McLouth, one daughter, Deborah Ann Lash, McLouth, one brother, Kenneth Lash, Leawood, two sister, Margery Slifer, Eugene OR, Shirley Earp, Horton, 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one son, Robert Lash and two brothers, Don Lash and Richard Lash.

Funeral Services at 11:00 AM, Thursday at Barnett Family Funeral Home, Oskaloosa. Visitation will be from 10:00 until service time at the Funeral Home. Inurnment will be at a later date at McLouth Cemetery. Memorials suggested to Veteran Administration Charities or American Heart Association in care of Barnett Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602, Oskaloosa, KS   66066.   www.barnettfamilyfh.com.

Marjorie Elizabeth Steinlage, 87, of Kelly, died on Saturday, February 17, 2018 surrounded by her family at Crestview Nursing and Residential Living in Seneca.

Marjorie was born on May 2, 1930 in Baileyville to Anton and Margaret Broxterman Nolte. She attended Head School House, north of Kelly, thru 8th Grade.  After moving to Kelly, she cleaned house for the Nuns of St. Bede’s Parish.   She continued to clean at St. Bede’s Church and Rectory for many years.  For 18 years she worked a Home-Maker for Three Rivers, going over and above for her clients.  She would spend extra time visiting and bringing them baked goods.

On August 23, 1949 she married Bernard Steinlage; they celebrated 37 years of marriage before his death on September 23, 1986. She lived all her married life on the family farm, where she raised her family; until three months ago when her health deteriorated and she moved to Crestview.

She was a lifelong member of St. Bede’s Catholic Church and Altar Society.  She loved spending time with family, traveling, playing cards, embroidery, growing flowers and cooking.  She was known for her fried chicken and homemade bread.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Roxanne on January 23, 1961; a son Glen, on December 24, 1972; two sisters, Francis McAsey and Bernice Wilhelm; and two brothers, Kenneth Nolte and Cletus Nolte.

She is survived by children, Gary (Karen) Steinlage of Topeka, Richard Steinlage of Kelly, Dennis (Connie) Steinlage of Silver Lake, Geralynn (Fred) Kohake of Centralia, Douglas Steinlage of Kelly and Gerimarie (Dale) Steinlage of Corning; 14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Theresa Korte of Anamosa, Iowa and Reva Korte of Holton.

Rosaries are at 2 and 7 P.M. Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Memorials are for St. Bede’s Church and or St. Jude’s Children Hospital sent in care of the family.

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

Robert E. Snyder, 80, of Sabetha, KS passed away Saturday, February 17, 2018.

Robert was born November 11, 1937 in Sabetha, KS the son of Eldon and Lena (Radar) Snyder.  He attended Derby High School and graduated with the class of 1955.  While in high school Robert was an avid basketball player.  

Robert worked for Sears in Wichita, KS for 26 years as a delivery appliance driver.  He enjoyed playing basketball with his children and taking family camping trips to Roaring River State Park in Missouri.

He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Daryl Snyder, and a sister, Delores Kirby.

Robert is survived by his children, Mark (Heather) Snyder of Salina, KS, Brad (Annette) Snyder of Rogers, AR, Shellie (Greg) Reynolds of Derby, KS, Lorri Perkins of Lincoln, CA; his sister, Phyllis Meece of Wichita, KS; a sister-in-law, Xiao han Snyder of Aliso Viejo, CA; 15 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Inurnment will take place in the Morrill Cemetery. Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha is handling arrangements.  www.popkessmortuaries.com

Charles Robert “Bob” Shaver, 71, of Atchison, KS died on Thursday, Feb. 15th, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family.

Funeral services will be 2:00 pm on Monday, Feb. 19, 2018 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Rev. Robert Ziegler officiating. Burial will follow in the Sunset Memory Gardens, Atchison. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 pm on Monday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church or Trinity Lutheran School Grant Fund. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Bob was born on Dec. 1, 1946 in Atchison, Kansas the son of Clarence H. and Leona J. (Bane) Shaver. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1964, attended Highland Community College and received his B.S. Degree in Finance and Business from Pittsburg State University. Mr. Shaver was a U.S. Army veteran serving during Vietnam Conflict. After returning from the service he worked for a short time in the finance dept of Shell Oil. He then owned and operated “Shaver Landscaping” in Atchison for many years until his health forced him to stop. Mr. Shaver finished his working career at Walmart for several years.

Bob enjoyed working with youth as a basketball coach for Trinity Lutheran Grade School and Mount St. Scholastica Academy. He was an avid KU Basketball fan, as well as KC Royal and KC Chief’s fan. He especially enjoyed watching his children and later his grandchildren play sports.

He was married to Georgia Young on May 24, 1968 at the First Baptist Church, Atchison, KS. Gerogia survives of the home. Additional survivors include two daughters, Melodi A. (Max) Bona, Lenexa, KS, and Misti A. (Dan) Wilson, Cummings, KS, three brothers, Clarence H. Shaver, III, Boise, ID, Larry D. Shaver, Scottsdale, AZ, and Harold E. “Hal” Shaver, Overland Park, KS, and four grandchildren, Bailey R. Wilson, Brianna N, Madeline N. and Andrew R. Bona. His parents, and sister, Patty Lou Shaver preceded him in death.

Thomas D. “Tom” Henry, 53, of Topeka, formerly of Seneca, died February 15, 2018 at his home in Topeka.

Tom is survived by his children, Kirt (April) Henry of Seneca, Kyle (Chelsey) Henry of Olathe, Kent (Hanna Hoffman) of Columbus, Indiana and Carla (Jake) Hermesch of Seneca. His siblings, Michael Henry of Topeka, Wayne Henry of Holton, Alan Henry of Wetmore, Jeff Henry of Topeka, Rosemary Henry of Holton, Kathy Sheid of Goff and Joyce Stallbaumer of Wetmore. Three grandchildren

Rosaries are 2 and 7 P.M. Sunday, February 18, 2018 at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Mass and Christian Burial will be Monday, February 19, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.

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

Patricia Cannon Welch, 59, of Holton, KS passed away Monday, February 12, 2018 at University of Kansas Health St. Francis Campus. She was born May 2, 1958 in Charlotte, N.C. the daughter of Joe Edgar and Ruth Clementine (Hearn) Cannon.

 Patricia had lived in the Holton community for 2 months to be closer to her son and daughter-in-law; she previously lived in Dallas, N.C. for most of her life. She was owner and operator of Superior Cleaning in N.C. for 6 years. Patricia was a former member of Revival Tabernacle Church in N.C.

She married Steve L. Welch; he preceded her in death on November 18, 2012. She was also preceded in death by her parents.

 Survivors include 3 sons, Adam Welch (Carrie) of Holton, KS, Jack Sides, Jr. and John Sides both of Charlotte, N.C.; 3 sisters, Sandra Cannon, Twila Arrendale and Kelly Cannon all of N.C.; 2 brothers, Joe and David Cannon of N.C. and 3 grandchildren, Jack, Cheyenne and Jacob.

Graveside Service will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 19, 2018 at the Holton Cemetery. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be given to Medicalodges Jackson County Church Service Fund c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.

Robert M. “Bob” Weber, 84, of Atchison, Kansas passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 13, 2018 surrounded by his loving family.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in Paolucci’s Banquet Room, 115 S. 3rd St, Atchison. A rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. with a celebration of Bob’s life to follow. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Parish or Maur Hill-Mount Academy School and may be left in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home, 208 North 5th Street, Atchison, Kansas 66002. Condolences and memories of Bob can she shared at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Robert was born on June 13, 1933 in Atchison, Kansas the son of Jacob P. and Alice (Knowles) Weber. He attended St. Patrick’s Elementary School and graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1952.

He and Rosemary Ellen Begley were united in marriage on April 23, 1960 at St. Benedict’s Church in Atchison, Kansas. Rosemary preceded him in death on October 17, 2009.

Bob was employed as a grain inspector for the state of Kansas for thirty-six years until his retirement. He then worked as a delivery man for Van Dyke’s Grocery Store for several years, delivering groceries to numerous residents of Atchison.

Bob was a member of St. Benedict Parish, V.F. W. Post #1175, Fleming-Jackson-Seever Post #6 of the American Legion and a former member of Sacred Heart Council #723 of Knights of Columbus. He was an avid fan of the Kansas City Royals, the Chiefs and KU Jayhawks. He enjoyed attending his children’s sporting events and watching his grandchildren participate in their sporting activities. He loved to play bingo in his spare time.

He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corp from March 26, 1954 until his honorable discharge on May 24, 1957.

Survivors include three sons, Rick (Karin) Weber, Atchison, KS; Michael (Bonnie) Weber, Houston, TX; Robert (Sheryl) Weber, Atchison, KS; a daughter, Cel (Kevin) Clements, Plano, TX; two sisters, Ruthanna Ramsey, Topeka, KS; Delores “Jean” Moranz, Mountain Home, Arkansas; ten grandchildren, Bridget, Sarah, Amber, Caroline, Megan, Michael, Amanda, Mary, Ryan and Nicole; five great grandchildren, Marley Rose, Alex, Delylah, Harrison, Madelyn Rose and his faithful companion, Nancy Beien, Atchison, KS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and four sisters, Helen Lee, Dorothy Weber, Evelyn Gray, Irene Glancy and seven brothers, Herman, Al, Jake, Leo, Ralph, Leonard and Edward

Gilbert Leroy Downing Sr., 62 died February 10, 2018 at his home.

Funeral services will be Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 1:00 P.M. at Ebenezer Baptish Church with Pastor Michael Kelley officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Thursday, Feb. 15th from 12:00 until 1:00 P.M. at the church. The Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home has been entrusted with the final care.

Gilbert was born May 7, 1955, to John H. Downing, Sr. and Sarah Mary James (Wilson) Downing.

Gilbert attended Atchison Public Schools, graduating from Atchison High in 1974. Gilbert perused studies at Fort Scott Junior College and the University of Kansas. In his youth Gilbert was known for his outstanding skills on the football field.

Gilbert loved his children and gave them unconditional support throughout his life. Gilbert was an avid fan of KU, he loved watching and attending sporting events. Gilbert loved his family and always doing his part to be some of the humor at reunions and other family gatherings.

Gilbert was formerly employed with UPS and the youth center in Atchison.

Most of all Gilbert accepted Christ at a young age and knew/loved Jesus Christ. Gilbert was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church, throughout his lifetime.

Sadly, Gilbert departed this life peacefully at home surrounded by family as he requested on Saturday, February 10, 2018.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Johnny and Mary James Downing, and is brother’s John “Lou Jack” Downing, Harold Downing, and an infant daughter.

Gilbert is survived by three sons Jason (Annie) Downing, Miami Beach, FL, Gilbert Downing, Jr, Shawnee, KS, Chester Downing, Atchison, KS, a daughter, Chesney Downing, Atchison, KS, two grandsons Miles and Landon Downing, Miami Beach, FL, two brothers George Downing, Atchison, KS, and Jovarie Downing, Topeka, KS, a sister Justine Downing, Little Rock, AR, three aunts, nine nieces and nephews and a host of cousins and other relatives.  

Keith Ray ”Poo-Bear” Kuykendall, 59, of Atchison KS died on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018 at the Atchison Hospital unexpectedly.

Funeral services will be 10:30am Thursday, Feb. 15th at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Rev. Jim Cormode officiating. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery, Effingham, KS.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, Wednesday, Feb. 14th, 2018 at the Becker Dyer Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison KS.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Keith was born on April 15, 1958 in Holton, KS the son of Jess and Ileta (Hadway) Kuykendall.  Keith served in the National Guard for 21 years.  Mr. Kuykendall worked as a molder for Rockwell International, Atchison for forty years. He was a member of the First Christian Church, Atchison, KS  , a member of the Steel Workers Union, the Lions Club,  and enjoyed traveling, riding his tri-cycle, going to the casino, and helping family and friends being a shade tree mechanic and working on cars.

He was married to Cynthia L. Scott on April 8, 1978 at the Effingham Christian Church. She preceded him in death on March 7, 2000.  Keith was later married to Linda Lewman on March 15, 2012.  Linda survives of the home.  Additional survivors include a son, Travis Kuykendall, Jacksonville, FL, three sisters,  Leona (Don) Steuart, Effingham, KS, Diana (Jerry) Gearhart, Effingham, KS and Beverly (Dale) Gaddis, Effingham, KS,  His parents,  half brother, Leon Kenworthy, and a sister, Verna Jones, also preceded him in death.  

Willa F. (Rickman) Rabstejnek, 88 of Table Rock passed away on February 12, 2018.  She was born on April 4, 1929 at Humansville, Missouri, to Charles and Orba (Abbott) Rickman.

The family moved to Nebraska and settled on a farm near Crab Orchard, Nebraska.

Willa attended country school near Crab Orchard and attended Lewiston High School where she graduated.  She took normal training at Peru State College. She taught in rural schools in Johnson and Pawnee Counties.

She was united in marriage to Philip Rabstejnek on August 20, 1953.  To this union three sons were born, Charles, Rick and Randall.  They lived on a farm east of Table Rock. Willa was employed at the Pawnee County Veteran Service Office for 45 years.

She was a member of Brown-Hays unit 289 Legion Auxiliary, VFW 5289, Eastern Star, and the Jolly Workers Club. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Philip, son Randy, grandson Aaron; parents Charles and Orba Rickman; brothers and sisters-in-law, Jay and Helen Rickman, Lou and Ilene Rickman, Charles (Buzz) and Lois Rickman; brother-in-law, Dave Davison.

She is survived by her sons, Charles and Cheryl Rabstejnek, Rick Rabstejnek; sister, MaryLou Davison; grandchildren, Philip and Loni Rabstejnek, Sara Rabstejnek and Adam Lloyd, and Ryan Rabstejnek, great grandchildren, Katie, Rylie, Lucas and Sadie. 

Graveside memorial services 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 24, 2018,  at the Czech Cemetery, rural Table Rock, Nebraska. Officiating Pastor Howard Blecha. No visitation. For those who cannot make it out to the Cemetery, family would like to invite them to a time of fellowship and refreshment in the basement of the United Methodist Church in Table Rock, Nebraska.  Memorials to family choice.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Della Butler, 92, formerly of Atchison, died in her sleep, Sunday, February 11, 2018.

She was a teacher at Salt Creek Valley Elementary School, in Easton, Kansas, while her husband, Lawrence Butler, served as the Superintendent of Schools in Atchison.

She loved sewing, quilting, gardening, and supported music in Atchison.

She was preceded in death by her husband.

Her survivors include her three children, David, Mark, La Dell Weinbach, and seven grandchildren.

Visitation for Della Butler will be Saturday, February 17, at 1:00 at the United Methodist Church, in Atchison. A memorial service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the Atchison United Methodist Church or to the Dementia Society of America.

Veda Nadine Knudson, 91 of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, February 11, 2018 at the Mission Village Living Center in Horton, Kansas.

She was born on March 28, 1926 in Horton, Kansas, the daughter of Carl and Frankie Rupe Bechtold. Veda attended grade school and graduated from Horton High School in 1944. She then went on to graduate from Stewarts Beauty Academy in Topeka, Kansas. She moved back to Horton and married Kenneth Knudson on October 11, 1947 at the Horton United Methodist Church.

Veda worked as a hairdresser and was recognized by the State Board for being a hairdresser for over 69 years. Veda and Kenneth owned and operated Knudson Jewelry and Hairport for years. Veda also was a farmwife and enjoyed babysitting her grandchildren. She was an active member of the Zion Lutheran Church, Horton Chamber of Commerce, Horton Centennial Booster Club and was a former 4-H leader. Veda was a avid Horton promoter organizing 4-H parades and other community events.

Survivors include her husband, Kenneth Knudson; a son, Knute (Debbie) Knudson of Hiawatha, Kansas; daughter, Jana (Tim) Ross of Horton, Kansas; 8 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Velma Barlow and Madeline Scott.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, February 16, 2018 at the Zion Lutheran Church North of Everest, Kansas where the family will greet friends from 10:00 A.M. until service time. Burial will be at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Veda Knudson 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

Raymond L. Flanders, 87, of Topeka, KS passed away Saturday, February 10, 2018 at his home in Topeka. He was born September 12, 1930 in Soldier, KS, the son of Clarence A. and G. Maye (Scheidegger) Flanders.

Ray grew up in the Circleville area, attending Kiwonka School and graduating from Holton High School in 1948. He married the love of his life, Beverly Sharrai on March 24, 1951 in Holton, KS. They celebrated 65 years of marriage before Beverly passed on December 18, 2016.

Ray was in the U.S. Marine Corp serving in the Korean War from 1951 – 1953. He operated Flanders 66 gas station from 1956 to 1962. He worked at various car dealerships in the 60s and 70s including Dale Sharp Pontiac Cadillac as a salesman. He work at Whelans selling vinyl siding, windows and fencing retiring in 1992. After retirement he and Ben Ashley installed vinyl siding from 1992-2004.

He was a kind and generous man that would help anyone who needed it including giving them the shirt off his back.

 Ray is survived by his son, Steve (Diane) of Topeka, KS; his grandchildren Katrina, Austin and Randy; his brothers, Richard (Shirley) of Topeka, KS and Kenny (Virginia) of Haysville, KS and many nieces and nephews. Along with his wife he was preceded in death his parents, an infant brother George in 1929, brothers; John (Jack) 2002 and Paul in 1985.

 Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Olive Hill Cemetery west of Holton. He will lie in state at the funeral home where the family will greet friends from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening.

Memorials may be given The American Heart Association c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
 

Ora Lee Moore, 67 of Holton, KS passed away on Friday, February 9, 2018 at the Holton Community Hospital.

He was born April 13, 1950 the son of Kenneth and Erma (Montgomery) Moore. Ora graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1968 and he graduated from Washburn University in 1972 where he earned his B.A. in Business.

Ora was a life long farmer and stockman, plus he was employed by the Federal Corp Insurance as an adjuster.

He was a member of the Larkinburg Christian Church, Kansas Farm Bureau, a board member of a Rural Water District and Alpha Delta Fraternity at Washburn University

Ora was preceded in death by his father Kenneth Moore.

Survivors include his mother Erma Moore of Holton, KS and his sister Velda Schwarm (Mark) of Hutchinson, KS. He was also survived by his niece Kellen Liebsch (Andy) and their children Tyler and Madelyn of Westmoreland, KS.

Funeral Services will be held 2:00 P.M. Tuesday,  February 13, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, KS with the burial to follow at the Larkinburg Cemetery in Larkinburg, KS. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Holton Hospital Rehab or to the Holton Senior Citizen Center 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

Connie L. Schlodder, 66, of Holton, KS passed away February 10, 2018 at her home. She was born November 24, 1951in Holton, KS the daughter of Dean Campbell and Betty (Campbell) Moser.

Connie attended Holton High School graduating in 1969. After high school she attended Stormont Vail School of Nursing where she received her Registered Nursing Degree. Connie worked as an RN for the Cardiology Consultants in Topeka for over 20 years, she also worked at Medicalodge Jackson County in Holton.

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Holton, the Order of the Eastern Star and Jobs Daughters. 

On June 30, 1978 Connie married Alan Schlodder in Holton. They shared over 35 years of marriage before Alan passed away on March 31, 2014. She was preceded in death by her father Dean Campbell and by her stepfather Dr. Ross Moser.

Survivors include: her mother, Betty Moser of Holton, KS; her sons, Kyle Schlodder (Crystal), Johnathan Schlodder (Kristel) and James Schlodder all of Holton, KS; her eight grandchildren, Kaitlynn, Abigail, Tristan, Carter, Addison, Mickenzie, Breckon and Mason; her step-sisters, Colene Gutierrez of Holton, Lorene Gakle of Holton, Kathlene Welch of Aurora, CO and Marlene Bizub of Colorado Springs, CO.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 15, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton.  Family will greet friends 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 14, 2018. Memorials may be given to the Connie Schlodder Memorial Fund to be designated at a later date, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Rebecca “Becky” Sue Gerdes, 67, of Humboldt, Nebraska was born on March 16, 1950, in Pawnee City, Nebraska.  She graduated from Hastings High School in 1968.  Throughout the years, Becky worked in the food services industries.  She owned “B’s Camp,” co-owned “Mom’s Café,” kitchen manager for Southeast Consolidated School, and managed the Harvey-Mann Legion Club Post #269 in Humboldt where she was also an active member of the Legion Auxiliary.

On March 16, 1984, Becky found the love of her life and married Loren Gerdes at The Christian Church in Beatrice, Nebraska.  The couple moved to Humboldt and were married 24 years until Loren’s passing in 2008.  Becky enjoyed cooking, playing pool, darts, going to the casino, playing cards, and crocheting.  But most of all, she loved spending time with family, especially her grandchildren, and friends.  Becky passed away on Monday, January 29, 2018, at the Colonial Acres Nursing Home in Humboldt, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of sixty-seven years, ten months, and thirteen days.  She is preceded in death by her loving husband Loren Gerdes, mother Eunice (Harshbarger) Beem, her father C.E. “Slim” Beem, mother-in-law Dorothy Gerdes, a sister Dixie Hager, nephew Darren Hager, brothers-in-law: Tim Hergenrader and Ronald Hager, and sister-in-law Carol Duff.

Becky is survived by her children: Scott (Terri) Otto of Humboldt, NE; Angelia (Thomas) Lazarski of Middletown, MD; Wendy Williamson of Hastings, NE; 5 grandsons; 2 granddaughters; brothers: Lyle (Denise) Amos of Summerville, SC; Ken Duff of Bakersfield, CA; sisters: Diane (Chuck) ConCannon of Haymarket, VA; Harriet Hergenrader of Homer, NE; brother-in-law Gary (Linda) Gerdes of Humboldt, NE; sisters-in-law: Marilyn (Tom) Glathar of Lincoln, NE; Donna Donavon of Kansas City, MO; step-mother Jerry Beem of Falls City, NE; step-brothers: Gene Hayes of Phoenix, AZ; Dave Hayes of Buckeye, AZ; Keith (Snooks) Hayes of Falls City, NE; step-sister Sue (Lee) Alders of Kansas City, MO; Mary Jo (Jim) Huettner of Verdon, NE; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.


Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 17, 2018, at The Christian Church in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Howard Blecha officiating. 

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. on Friday, February 16, 2018, at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska.  Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary.

Inurnment will be at the Humboldt Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the wishes of the family with a later designation.
  
Online messages of condolence can be left at www.wherrymortuary.com
 
Services are entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-207 N. Nemaha ST. Humboldt, NE (402) 862-2915
 

 Lois (Morris) Herpich, 82, of Troy, Kansas, surrounded by her family, entered the presence of her Lord Jesus Christ, Friday, February 9, 2018.

Lois was born on November 24, 1935 in Oregon, Missouri to Clarence and Lillian (Breckenridge) Morris.  She was devoted to her family, returning to work after her youngest girls entered school. Lois worked as a nutritionist for Head Start in Troy before her retirement.Lois attended the Christ Lutheran Church in Wathena, Kansas.

She married John Herpich on March 5, 1955 in St. Joseph, Missouri.  He preceded her in death on September 25, 2006.  She was also preceded by her parents, and siblings Louis Morris, Esther Drake, Richard Drake, George Drake, Floyd Drake, Pearl Meier and James Drake.

Lois is survived by her children; Pamela Cone (Lee) of St. Joseph, Missouri,  Jon Herpich (Tammy) of Licking, Missouri, Laura Vittetoe (Mark) of Everest, Kansas, Jackie Kiehnhoff (Mark) of Wathena, Kansas, Jenny Hasenjaeger (Brad) of Bennet, Nebraska, Brother, Frank Morris of Holton, Kansas, Mother-in-law, Rosalee Herpich, Denton, Kansas. Grandchildren; Jodie Barks, Lacie Hammond, Captain Dakota Herpich USMC, Madelyn Vittetoe, Morgan and Brooke Kiehnhoff, Sawyer Hasenjaeger. Great-grandchildren; Kyson, Kayden, Kody, Emma and Savanna, and many nieces and nephews.  

FUNERAL:  Tuesday, February 13, 2018 – 11:00 A.M. At: Christ Lutheran Church in Wathena, Kansas. Burial: Wolf River Cemetery #3 – Denton, Kansas. Visitation: The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the funeral service at the Christ Lutheran Church (10-11 AM).

Friends may call after 11:00 A.M. Monday, February 12, 2018 at Harman-Rohde Funeral Home, Troy, Kansas.

Memorials: Lois Herpich Memorial Fund.  www.harmanrohde.com 

Kurt Thomas Holthaus, 63, of Seneca, KS died Friday, February 9, 2018 at his home near Seneca.

He was born October 16, 1954 to Henry (Hienie) and Vera Johnson Holthaus in Axtell.  He attended Sts. Peter & Paul School thru 8th grade graduation.  He graduated in 1972 from Nemaha Valley High School.  As a young man he ventured to Topeka and was employed by Hallmark. The desire to work with his hands and be outdoors lead him to return to Seneca and start his own business: Holthaus Construction.  He was very particular about his craftmanship; he always wanted it done correctly.  He was instrumental in the restoration of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in 2012.

On April 5, 1975 he married Debra J. Kohake at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.

Kurt was a member of He was a member of the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and St. Joseph’s Society.  He served on the Nemaha Valley School Board from 1989-1999.  He coached baseball in Kelly for several years, His lawn was important to him; he was very particular about its upkeep.  He enjoyed going to his children and grandchildren’s events.  Kurt found solus and peace in praying the Rosary.  Kurt lived life with the philosophy “Work Hard-Play Hard.”    He ended each work week having a beer with his friends and co-workers.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Deb; a son, Steve Holthaus of Seneca; two daughters, Mandy (Sam) Ficarrotta of Olatha, Kansas and Tish (Greg) Hermesch of Kelly; three grandchildren, Charlie, Ellie and Henry; two brothers, Mike (Judy) Holthaus of Topeka, and Tim (Roxann) Holthaus of Seneca; one sister, Cheryl (Terry) Osterhaus of Lakewood, Colorado; and a sister-in-law, Donna Holthaus of Seneca.  

Kurt was preceded in death by his father, Henry on January 25, 1997; his mother, Vera on March 21, 2003; a brother, Randy on February 11, 2013; and two infant brothers, Henry on December 27, 1945 and Joseph on September 16, 1946.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 and 7 P.M. on Sunday, February 11, 2018 at Lauer Funeral Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 A.M. on Monday, February 12, 2018 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Burial will be in the Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to Sts. Peter & Paul School. To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com.

Alice Marie Wessel, 75, of Effingham, KS, passed away Thursday, February 8, 2018 at the Holton Hospital, Holton, KS.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM, Monday, February 12, 2018 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Effingham, KS, with Father Benjamin Tremmel, OSB as Celebrant.  Burial will follow at St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery.  A Parish Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM, Sunday, February 11, 2018 with visitation following until 8:00 PM at the church. Alice will lie-in-state from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sunday, at the Becker Chapel 402 3rd St., Effingham, KS prior to the visitation.

Memorials are suggested to St. Ann’s Catholic Church or Effingham Newsleaf and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, who is handling the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Alice was born January 16, 1943 in Atchison County, KS, the daughter of Gerard “Hardy” and Ruth (Canderia) Wohletz.  She graduated from Atchison County Community High School.  Alice was mainly a housewife but had also worked for LFM in the office and Atchison Leather Products and Berger Company as a cutter and sewer.  She was a member of the St. Ann’s Catholic Church, serving on the Altar Society, Happy Hour Club and Winsum Dozen Bunco Club.  Alice enjoyed sewing and quilting, gardening and attending events of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Alice married Jerry Wessel on February 4, 1961 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Effingham, KS; he preceded her in death on May 10, 2006. 

Survivors include a son, Mike Wessel, Effingham, KS, two daughters; Theresa and Gary Cattrell, Nortonville, KS, Margaret and Bruce Diehl, Wichita, KS, two brothers; Louis Wohletz, Lyndon, KS, Leo and Jan Wohletz, Denton, KS, a sister, Judy and Rex Logan, Eskridge, KS, three grandsons, Jason Cattrell, Randy (Alicia) Cattrell, Kevin (Ashley) Diehl and a great grandson, Ryan Keith.

She was also preceded in death by her parents.

Stella “Mavis” Lucas, 91, of Sabetha, KS passed away Thursday, February 8, 2018 at the Apostolic Christian Home.

Funeral service will be Monday, February 12, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. Visitation will be from1:00 to 2:00 p.m. prior to service time at the funeral home.

Mavis will be lying in state on Sunday, February 11, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha. Interment will be made at the Sabetha Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Brethren in Christ Church, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Gerald H. “Jerry” Miner, 83, of Hiawatha, was born October, 30, 1934, in Brown County, one of three children born to the late Carl and Cordelia Snodgrass Miner. He passed away Wednesday, February 7, at the Sabetha Manor.

He grew up in the Reserve community where he attended District #83 country school prior to attending and later graduating from Reserve High School in 1952. Jerry served 8 years with the 2nd Battalion, 130th FA, Kansas Army National Guard of Hiawatha.

Jerry farmed for 22 years and then moved to Hiawatha to be a plumber, electrician for another 20 years. He had a love for old tractors and had a collection of over 50...his favorite were the John Deere’s. They hauled them from the states of Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, Indiana, Kansas. Jerry belonged to a local tractor club for many years. He also loved to bowl, starting in 1965 until December of 2016. He loved to travel with Colorado being his favorite place to visit.

He married Mary Jane Baker, May 24, 1953. They had 3 children: Mary Ann, Carol, and Mike. His wife Mary survives of the home after 64 years of marriage.

Also surviving are two daughters: Mary Ann (C.J.) of Tucson, AZ, Carol Harahan of Muscotah; a daughter-in-law, Kathy Miner; a sister Kathleen Smith (Larry) of Tonganoxie, KS; grandchildren: Craig Hayes (Tara), Jennifer Breeding (Michiel), Jessica Blush (Austin), Jon Middendorf (Brittany), Kyle Miner (Brenna); and several great-grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; a sister Laura Gibbs; and his son Mike in 2011.

Services are planned for 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 12, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha, with Pastor Mike Dunaway of the NEK Partnership officiating. Interment will follow at Corneilson Cemetery, east of Reserve.

Friends may call after 10 a.m. Sunday where the family will meet from 3 until 5 Sunday afternoon.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Brown County Humane Society, Hiawatha Volunteer Fire Dept. or Brown County Ag Museum, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Daryl M. Ford, 94, Valley Falls, died Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2018, at Midland Care at Linnwood Park Assisted Living at Valley Falls.
 
He was born July 18, 1923, in the North Cedar Community, west of Valley Falls, the son of Calvin Courtney and Eva Viola Ferrell Ford. He graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1941. He served aboard the USS Sierra in the US Navy in World War II in the Pacific Theater. He attained the rank of Fireman First Class.

Daryl was Postmaster at the Valley Falls Post Office and had served as president and secretary of the Kansas Postmasters Association. He was a past National Vice President of the National Postmasters Association, representing Kansas, Nebraska and Oklahoma. He was past president of the Jefferson County National Association of Retired Federal Employees, and had been secretary of Kansas NARFE. He had been a cashier at the Citizens State Bank in Valley Falls, and was a member of the Kansas Bankers Association.

 In 1952, he became a charter member of the Valley Falls Lions Club and in 2017 was presented the Melvin Jones Award from Lions Club International. He was a member of the Valley Falls United Methodist Church, serving in many offices including Chairman of the Church Board. He had been Mayor of Valley Falls, served on the USD 338 School Board, and was a member of the Valley Falls Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Jefferson County Democratic Organization.

Daryl was Chaplain of the Grahem-Herbers Post 3084, Veterans of Foreign Wars. He had also served as Post Commander. Accompanied by his granddaughter, Jennifer Clark, he traveled on an Honor Flight in 2014 to Washington D.C. At a Kansas City Royals baseball game in 2015, Daryl was recognized as an Honored Veteran. He was a member of Meriden Masonic Lodge No. 236, A.F.&A.M., Topeka Consistory Scottish Rite and Abdulah Shrine.

 He married Bette M. Parrott, July 30, 1944, at Valley Falls. She died June 14, 2009. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Wanda Koons.

Survivors include his daughter, Deidre L. Slagle, and her husband, Steven, his granddaughter, Jennifer Clark, and her husband, Eric, all of Lolo, MT; and his brother, Lyndall Ford, Overland Park.

The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, 2018, at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Military honors by Grahem-Herbers Post 3084, Veterans of Foreign Wars, will be conducted at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Gragg’s Chapel Cemetery west of Valley Falls.  Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday.

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

Toeti M. Deuninck, 77, of Seneca, died on Monday, February 6, 2017 at a Life Care Center of Seneca.

Toeti was born on February 13, 1940 to Marcus and Soemirah Rahajoeningish Sastrodibroto Salmon in Jakarta, Indonesia. As a young girl Toeti and her mother, Some, were imprisoned in a Japanese internment camp during the war. Times were tough for them, as food was scares; but they survived. Toeti attended school in Indonesia, till the 1950 when they moved to the Netherlands, where they had family. The family later moved to the United States. She lived in Topeka for 10 years before moving to Phoenix. In 1990, Toeti moved back to Topeka and lived there until she moved to Seneca in 2009.

In 1960, she married Adrian Deuninck in Topeka, they later divorced. To this union two children were born, a son, Andy and a daughter, Astrid.

Toeti was preceded in death by her parents; and a granddaughter, Brittney Dueninck in 2000.

Survivors are children, Andy M. Deuninck of Springfield, Missouri and Astrid (Warren Dupont) Deuninck of Seneca; and six grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Memorials will be designated at a later date, 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 .

Bonnie June Cameron, 65, of Atchison, KS, passed away Wednesday, February 7, 2018, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Bonnie’s wishes were to be cremated and no services held. The family invites friends to celebrate Bonnie’s life with them on Saturday, February 10th, beginning at 1:00 PM at 1726 Santa Fe Terrace, Atchison. Memorial contributions in honor of Bonnie are suggested to the Kansas State School for the Blind and may be left in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, who is handling the arrangements. Words of comfort and remembrance may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Bonnie June Cameron was born on February 17, 1952 in Atchison, the daughter of John and Betty (Jones) Cameron. Bonnie graduated from ACCHS in Effingham in 1970 and received her CNA (Certified Nurse’s Assistant) certificate from Northeast Kansas Area Vo-Tech, Atchison. Bonnie worked as a CNA at the Mt. St. Scholastica Dooley Center and Gran Villas in Atchison; she retired in 2015. Bonnie loved her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews and the time she got to spend with them. To those who knew Bonnie she was everyone’s ‘Nana’.

Bonnie and Roy Hale were married in 1970. They later divorced. Roy preceded her in death on December 8, 2015. Bonnie was also preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Bill Cameron.

Survivors include three daughters, all from Atchison, Jenny (Brian) Spilman, Cassandra Hale, and Shelly Werner; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren; sister, Mary Liggett; sister-in-law, Linn Cameron; many nieces and nephews.

Sister Mary Margaret (religious name Theodore) Bunck, OSB, 94, a Benedictine sister of Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, Kansas, died Monday, February 5, 2018, at the monastery. The vigil service will be Sunday, February 11, at 7:00 p.m. in the monastery chapel, and the Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated there Monday, February 12, at 10:30 a.m.

Sister Mary Margaret was born in Everest, Kansas, on November 16, 1923. She attended a country school and Everest High School before entering the Mount community in 1945. On her personnel file, she listed work experience before entering as “farmer’s daughter: drove tractor, harvested crops, milked cows and many other activities.” She made her monastic profession in 1946. After earning a B.S. in education from Mount St. Scholastica College, she was a beloved and creative primary teacher for 42 years in Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa, making every child feel accepted and involved. She later did varied services in the monastery including gracious and cheerful chauffeuring for sisters unable to drive.

Sister Mary Margaret was preceded in death by her parents William and Anna Hrenchir Bunck, by her brothers William, Jr., Albert and Edward Bunck and her sisters Amy Bunck, who died at birth, Alma Cavanaugh and Jeanette Gronniger. She is survived by nieces, nephews and her monastic family. Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home (www.beckerdyer.com) is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be sent to Mount St. Scholastica or made online at the Mount’s web site (www.mountosb.org).

John Bernard Schaible, 67, answered His call, as a result of a fire at the family home near Fairview in the early morning of February 1, 2018.

John was born June 19, 1950 at St. Anthony Hospital in Sabetha, KS the son of Bernard Dale and Alice Jane Sterns Schaible. He graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1968 and attended Highland Community College, Kansas State University and Washburn University. John was married to Janet Boos on June 30, 1996. He spent his entire life on the family farm near Fairview and was known for having a generous heart and for his love for his many dogs over the years.

Surviving John are his brother James and wife Jeannie of Kansas City, MO; a niece Eva Schaible of San Francisco, CA and nephews: Collin Schaible of Sydney, Australia; Aidan and Nicholas Schaible of Kansas City, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law Una Schaible; and his nephew, John Connor Schaible.

A Celebration of John's life is planned for 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 16 at the United Church of Christ in Fairview with Pastor Shane Spangler officiating. The family will meet with friends after the services. A mass in John's honor will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, February 17 at Sacred Heart Church, Sabetha, KS.

Memorial contributions are suggested for the Brown County Humane Society or the Fairview-Walnut Volunteer Firefighters in care Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434, who is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Charles Patrick Jewell, 85, of Mayetta, KS passed away Sunday, February 4, 2018 at the VA Hospital in Topeka, KS. He was born March 23, 1932 in Lincoln, KS, the son of Charles Milton and Vaughn Hazel (McCormick) Jewell.

Charles attended schools in Lincoln and Farmington, KS. He was a longtime resident of Mayetta. He proudly served in United States Navy during the Korean Conflict; he served in Japan, China, Philippines and Korea. On June 25, 2000 he was awarded the 50 year South Korean pin from Randolph Air Force Base. In his early years he farmed and worked for Jackson County as a Road Grader Operator. He later worked for Lutz Construction and Wildcat Construction where he retired.

Charles was a member of the Mayetta Christian Church, Holton VFW Post #1367 and a member of the Holton American Legion Post #44.

Charles married Colene Watts on August 25, 1954 in Hiawatha, KS. They shared over 60 years of marriage before Colene passed away on May 11, 2015. He was also preceded in death by 4 sisters Katherine McGee, Carrie Schroeder, Nellie Coloff, and Ruth Ann Hittle and 5 brothers, Denny, Ray, Jim, John and Bill Jewell.

Survivors include 2 sisters; Vaughn Kreider of Horton, KS, and Mildred Traphagen of Hoyt, KS; 5 children; Patsy Jewell of Mayetta, KS, Paula Henry of Hoyt, KS, Mike Jewell (Cindy) of Mayetta, KS, Penny Hegemann (David) of Mayetta, KS and Charles Jewell (Lee) of Mayetta, KS; 6 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Memorial Service with Military Honors will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 9, 2018 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Inurnment will follow in the Mayetta Cemetery. Family will greet friends Thursday evening from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Charles Jewell Memorial Fund to be designated at a later date to the VA Hospital in Topeka c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.

Patricia “Trish” Lynn (Vinson) Keithley, 54, of Lexington, Nebraska was born on October 12, 1963, in Omaha, Nebraska to James W. and Connie L. (Trosper) Vinson.  She was raised in Nemaha and attended school K-12th in Stella at Southeast Consolidated Schools.  Trish graduated from Southeast Consolidated High School with the class of 1981.  After her schooling, Trish worked for a sewing factory in Nebraska City.  It was there that she met Kevin Keithley and the couple would later unite in marriage on November 19, 1988 in Humboldt, Nebraska.  They began their marriage living outside Humboldt before moving to a farm outside of Auburn.  In 1992, Trish and Kevin moved to Lexington, Nebraska where Trish worked at Walmart.  She continued to work there until her health began to decline and was forced to stop working in 1995.  Trish enjoyed hunting, spending time with her family, and anything outdoors.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and sister who will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved her.  

Trish passed away on Friday, February 2, 2018, at the Lexington Regional Health Center in Lexington, Nebraska having reached the age of 54 years, 3 months, and twenty-one days.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Kevin Keithley, brothers William and Earl Vinson, and a nephew Shawn Anderson.

Trish is survived by her daughter Samantha Schippert of Lexington, NE; grandsons: Damien Peterson of Lexington, NE; Maverick Schippert of Lexington, NE; sisters: Lauretta Anderson and husband Lee of Humboldt, NE; Kathleen Mensing of Springfield, MO; a brother Michael Vinson and wife Virginia of Auburn, NE; brother-in-law Rodney Keithley and his wife Kathryn of Auburn, NE; sister-in-law Michelle Vinson of Bolivar, MO; son-in-law Mark Schippert of Johnson Lake, NE; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 9, 2018, at The Hall Funeral Chapel in Auburn, Nebraska with Pastor Corey Miller officiating.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday, February 8, 2018, at The Hall Funeral Chapel in Auburn.  Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary.

Interment will be at the Nemaha Cemetery in Nemaha, Nebraska.

Memorial contributions will be designated according to the wishes of the family.  

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

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

Travis Edward Ries, 26 of Pawnee City, Nebraska passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2018.  He was born on July 6, 1991 in Edmonds, Washington to Mike and Debbie (Collins) Ries.

Memorial service 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2018 at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Officiating Reverend Ken Tubbesing. Visitation on Friday, February 9, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 5-6 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, Pawnee City.   Memorials to family choice. Online condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Mary Theresa (Vrtiska) Rinne 98 of Pawnee City, passed away on Tuesday, February 6, 2018.  She was born on October 11, 1919 on a farm east of Steinauer to Anton and Emma (Obrist) Vrtiska.

She attended St. Anthony's grade school and Steinauer High School, graduating in 1937. During High School and after graduation she worked at a grocery store in Steinauer.  She also was a bookkeeper for the store.

She was united in marriage to Norman Rinne on November 28, 1940 at St. Anthony’s chapel.  To this union 5 children were born, Donald, Russell, John (Jack), William (Bill) and Rosemary. They lived on a farm southwest of Steinauer the rest of their lives. She was a homemaker.

In 1957 she was employed at the State Development Center as a supervisor of staff, she retired in 1983.

Mary was a member the choir from elementary school until her marriage and active in C.Y.O and served as president for many years.  After her marriage she became a member of Sacred Heart  Church at Burchard.  She was a member of Holy Rosary Altar Society, D.C.C.W. Auxiliary, member of the Pink Sisters.  Honorary member of Fraternal order of Eagles.  She was a member of the Steinauer Women’s Club for many years. She served as a member of the Ground Observers Corp, in the early 1950’s.  She and Norman visited family in Arizona, Nevada and the Boston area many times.  She enjoyed following the school and sports activities of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Mary entered Premier Estates Nursing Home in Pawnee City in August 2013.

Mary loved dancing and music and had many friends.  A very special friend in the later years of her life was Helen Gyrha.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Anton and Emma Vrtiska, husband, Norman (1995), son William, sisters and brothers-in-law, Donata Pendergast (Jim), Madaline Matthews (Lloyd), Dorothy Gunzelman (Tex), Sr. Mary Walter (Peggy),  Esther and Bill Schafer, Erna and Vernon  Hoffman, Emeline and Bob Morrissey. Brothers and sisters-in-law, Adrian Leona, John (Norma), Charles, Tony (Pat).

She is survived by  Donald (JoAnne) Rinne of Beatrice, NE, Russell Rinne of Burchard, NE,  John (Mary) of Flagstaff, AZ, daughter, Rosemary (Jay) Wischmeier of Burchard, NE, daughter-in-law, Janice Rinne of Boston, sister and brother-in-law, Betty Bedea (Gary), sister-in-law, Clara Vrtiska, brother, William (Carol), 12 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews.

Services 10:00 a.m., Saturday, February 10, 2018 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Steinauer, Nebraska. Officiating Father Michael Christensen.  Visitation Friday, February 9, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..  Rosary on Friday February 9, 2018 at 7:00 p.m., at St. Anthony's Catholic Church, with family greeting friends an hour before the Rosary.  Interment at Evergreen Cemetery, Beatrice, Nebraska.  Memorials to family choice. On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Frank L. Schuetz, 73, died early Monday morning February 5, 2018, at Mosaic Life Care Center in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Funeral Services are planned for 2:30 p.m. Friday, February 9, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha, with Pastor Rich Lehmkuhl, of the Eternal Hope Worship Center. Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Thursday. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services.

Frank was born at Falls City, Nebraska, November 21, 1944, the son of the late Theodore and Lena Durfey Schuetz. He grew up at Falls City where he attended school. Growing up in the community he was active delivering newspapers, worked in the grocery stores, always had a job doing something. Frank did road construction a short time before going to work for Wilde Tool Co. in Hiawatha for 12 years. He worked for 25 years for Hammersmith Manufacturing in Horton before retiring in 2012.

Frank enjoyed wood working. He and Norma enjoyed watching football games together.

Frank married Norma Buckminster, February 3, 1963 in Falls City. They have made Hiawatha their home nearly all of their life where they raised their family. Together, they operated Walt & Jane’s Tavern in Hiawatha for 4 years. Norma survives.

Also surviving is a son Alan Schuetz (Connie) of Illinois; a son-in-law Roy Hartley of Hiawatha; two granddaughters: Emily and Kayla; 3 great-grandchildren, Kolby, Karter, and Korrie. A sister JoAnn Massey of Robinson, also survives.

Frank was also preceded in death by his daughter Paula Hartley; siblings, Bill, Jimmy, Gene, and Susie Elliott.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Frank Schuetz Memorial Fund, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

Leave a message for the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Marvin Eugene Seager, Sr., 82, Atchison, KS, passed away Sunday, February 4, 2018, at Midland Hospice House, Topeka, KS.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM Friday, February 9, 2018 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as Celebrant.  Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at6:00 PM, Thursday, February 8, 2018 with visitation following to 8:00 PM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Food for the Poor and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer- Stanton Funeral Home who is handling the arrangements.  Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Marvin was born February 26, 1935 in Atchison, KS, the son of Cyril and Edith (Gerardy) Seager.  He graduated from Atchison High School in 1952 and served in the Army Reserves for six years.  Marvin was a letter carrier for United States Postal Service for twenty-four and half years.  He was a member of St. Benedict Parish, the Knights of Columbus, having served as PTO President on the Sacred Heart Church council during the consolidating of schools, the Letter Carriers Union, serving as the union secretary and shop steward for a number of years.  Marvin enjoyed woodworking, having built his own home, furniture, toys.  He also enjoyed yard work, traveling with family, serving as the Flyswatter Camping Club President. 

Marvin married Edonna “Jane” Grand Pre on January 12, 1957, at Sacred Heart Church, Atchison, KS, she survives of the home.  Additional survivors include three daughters; Marla (Luke) Jesnowski, Atchison, KS, Donna (Mike) Reno, Topeka, KS, Laura (Mike) Falk, Atchison, KS, three sons; Marvin “Gene” (Beckie) Seager, Atchison, KS, Brian (Joanne White) Seager, Atchison, KS, Terrance (Sheila) Seager, Fall City, NE, two brothers; Kenneth Seager, Wamego, KS, Duane (Sheila) Seager, Cameron, MO, a sister; Marilyn (Harold) Agnew, Lawrence, KS, eleven grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren, two sister in laws, Thelma Seager and Marilyn Grand Pre, of Atchison, KS and a brother in law Arland (Sandy) Grand Pre, Cummings, KS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son; Marty Seager, two brothers; Harold and Donald Seager, Sister in law, Debra Grand Pre.

Lloyd E. Wilhelm, 89, of Verdon, NE, passed away February 2, 2018 at Falls City, NE. He was born October 13, 1928 at Verdon to Karl and Bertha (Becker) Wilhelm.

On July 21, 1956 he married Shirley Zimmerman.

Lloyd attended Verdon School and then helped his father farm in rural Verdon. He then became employed at the Missouri Pacific Railroad as a trackman from 1947 until 1951. He then enlisted in the U. S. Army on February 21, 1951 and was honorably discharged on February 2, 1953 and then served in the Army Reserve from February 3, 1953 to April 4, 1957. Upon his return he became employed at Millworks and Woodings Verona in Falls City. He retired from Woodings Verona. He was a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church at Verdon.

Lloyd is survived by his wife, Shirley of Verdon, children, Patricia Rash and her husband Ron of Morrill, KS, Michael of Verdon, Bonnie Muse and her husband Billy of Humboldt, NE, Bert Cochran and her husband Dan of Bloomington, IL and Connie Wilhelm of Normal, IL, grandchildren, Wade Lowe, Derek Cochran, Michelle Cochran and a great-grandchild, Arrison Lowe. He was preceded in death by by his parents, brother, Kenneth, sisters, Bessie Gilfillan and Martha Hollens.

The last few years Lloyd was a resident at Falls City Nursing & Rehab where he could often be found sitting silently in his room watching birds gather at the feeder outside his window.  Lloyd’s family would like to thank the staff at Falls City Nursing & Rehab for their loving and personal care provided to Lloyd during the final years of his life. The family is also very appreciative of the compassion extended by AseraCare Hospice. 

Lloyd was a man of few words who often sat outside in quiet solitude on warm summer days for hours at time.  Staying true to his quiet demeanor and personality, Lloyd requested to be cremated with no service to be held.

Sister Johnette Putnam, OSB, 84, a Benedictine sister of Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, Kans., died Sunday, February 4, 2018, at the monastery. The vigil service will be Thursday, February 8, at 7:00 p.m. in the monastery chapel, and the Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated there Friday, February 9, at 10:30 a.m.

Born in New Orleans, La., Sister Johnette was a member of St. Scholastica Priory in Covington, La., until it closed in 1988 and she transferred to Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison. She taught in grade schools in Louisiana and was a principal for several years. From 1958 to 1968, she taught at St. Joseph High School in Chauvin, La., and St. Scholastica Academy in Covington, La. She held a B.A. in English from Mount St. Scholastica College, M.A. in theology from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minn., and an honorary doctorate from Mount Marty College in Yankton, S.D. In 1968, she was elected prioress in Covington and in 1978 became president of the Federation of St. Scholastica, an organization of Benedictine monasteries. She held this position for 12 years and then was a retreat director at Sacred Heart Monastery in Cullman, Ala., before moving to Atchison. There she served as director of Sophia Center from 1992 to 2003 and helped launch Souljourners, an ecumenical program for training spiritual directors at Sophia Center. She wrote many articles and gave lectures and workshops on monastic life, community leadership, liturgy, and spirituality.

Sister Johnette was preceded in death by her parents Gorham and Georgiana Serpas Putnam, by her brothers Charles, Joseph and S. Jerome, and a sister, Emilie Nicaud.

She is survived by her twin brother John (Dot) of Tierra Verde, Fla., nieces and nephews, and her monastic family. Arensberg Pruett Funeral Home (www.arensbergpruett.com) is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be sent to Mount St. Scholastica or made online at the Mount’s web site (www.mountosb.org).

Janice D. Smith, 84, of Atchison KS died on Sat. Feb. 3, 2018 at the Atchison Senior Village.

Funeral services will be 10:30 am on Thursday, Feb. 8th, 2018 at the Trinity Lutheran Church with Rev. Robert Ziegler, Officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Atchison, KS. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8: 00 pm on Wednesday, Feb. 7th, 2018 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Trinity Lutheran School Endowment Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Janice D. Bryan was born on Jan. 6, 1934 in Atchison, KS the daughter of Virgil and Charlotte (Thompson) Bryan. She attended Atchison Schools and had worked for the Horton Garment Factory for 7 years. Mrs. Smith also owned and operated a day care for children in her own home for over 26 years before retiring. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, the Altar Guild, was a former Sunday School Teacher, a Kennedy Caller, former Cub Scout Den Leader for Pack 94, Trinity and member of Pastor Ziegler’s Adult Bible Class. She enjoyed dancing, bird watching, traveling and especially her children and grandchildren.

She was married to JohnW. (Bill) Smith on Nov. 19, 1949 in Troy, KS, they were later divorced. Survivors include a son Rodney (Sherri) Smith, Atchison, KS, a sister, Shirley Jones, Rushville, MO, half sister, Linda (Jim) Miller, Atchison, KS, four grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. and several nieces and nephews. Her parents, a son, William Steven Smith, and a brother, William Goodwin and special friend, John Curry also preceded her in death.

John Edward Knudson, 89, of Everest, Kansas, passed away on February 3, 2018 at the Mission Village Living Center in Horton, Kansas.

He was born on April 28, 1928 in Horton, Kansas the son of Carl John and Emma Christina Edwardson Knudson.

John was baptized and in 1943 confirmed at the Zion Lutheran Church of Everest, Kansas. He attended Pleasant Ridge Grade School and Atchison County Community High School in Effingham. In 1952 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving during the Korean Conflict.

After his discharge he returned to Everest to farm with his father until his father retired. He then started farming and raising cattle with his brother Lee. John was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church and the Everest American Legion.

Survivors include a brother, Lee Knudson of Horton, Kansas; nephew, Greg Knudson of Everest, Kansas; niece, Lynda (Dennis) Ross of Horton, Kansas and numerous great nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, February 7, 3018 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas where the family will greet friends from 10:00 A.M. until service time. Burial with military graveside rites will be at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, north of Everest, Kansas. Memorials may be made to the Zion Lutheran Church and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Gerald Dale Dodge, 76, of Everest, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, January 31, 2018 at the Mission Village Living Center in Horton, Kansas.

He was born on November 18, 1941 in Horton, Kansas the son of Benjamin and Evelyn Gragg Dodge.

Gerald worked for Foster Ford in Horton as a mechanic prior to going to work for Rockwell International in Atchison where he retired after working there 39 years.  He served on the Everest Fire Department for 40 plus years.

On July 28, 1963 he married Margaret Jacobs in Everest, Kansas.

Survivors include his wife, Margaret Dodge of the home, Everest, Kansas; two sons, Allen (Elena) Dodge of Jacksonville, Florida and Leroy (Jennifer) Dodge of Everest, Kansas; sister, Neoma Thomas of Omaha, Nebraska; 5 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

A private service will be held at a later date at the Horton City Cemetery. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Cheryl Sue “Susie” Browning, 66, Mound City, Missouri passed away Friday, February 2, 2018.

She was born April 23, 1951 in Omaha, NE to William and Luellyn (Vogt) Kinney.

Cheryl married Danny Browning in 1998.  He survives of the home.

She worked at MODOT for 20 years and retired as Aggregate Specialist Inspector.  In her younger years, she enjoyed playing softball and bowling.  Cheryl’s hobbies included painting, crossword puzzles, sewing, and gardening.  She loved her grandchildren most of all and going to all of their sporting events.

She was preceded in death by her father, William Kinney; and grandson, Dunkken Lundy.

Additional survivors include children, Steffani Miller (Eric), Jennifer Collins, Kevin Collins, Pamela McGinnis (Kevin), Patrick Browning (Janet), and Robert Browning; mother, Luellyn Kinney; grandchildren, Chase, Taylor, Kelton, Kenzie, Maddison,and Brennon; siblings, Robert Kinney (Brenda), Bill Kinney (Diane), Jim Kinney, and Joe Kinney (Ashley); first husband and father of her children, Gary Collins; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, Pettijohn and Crawford Funeral Service. Interment Mount Hope Cemetery.  The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, Pettijohn and Crawford Funeral Service.  Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, family request donations to the Ronald McDonald House.   Online guest book and obituary at www.pettijohncrawford.com.

Norbertine Elizabeth (Niehues) Miller, 95, of Seneca, KS passed away Friday, February 2, 2018 at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital surrounded by her family.

Norbertine was born October 19, 1922 in Kelly, KS to Frank H. and Elizabeth (Steinlage) Niehues. She graduated from Kelly High School in 1941. Norbertine attended Mount St. Scholastica College for one year, and entered nurses training in Sabetha at St. Anthony’s School of Nursing from 1942 until 1945. After becoming a registered nurse, she worked at St. Luke’s in Kansas City and later worked at the Seneca Hospital from 1946 until her retirement in 1984. Following her retirement, Norbertine worked for Crestview Manor.

On September 23, 1948 she married Dale Miller at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly, KS.
After retirement, Norbertine enjoyed volunteering at Crestview Nursing Residential, spending time with her grandchildren, reading, and crocheting. Throughout her life her faith was important and she ministered to many people, even when she was home bound herself she would write and call others with encouragement and prayer. After becoming widowed,

Norbertine and her sister Frances spent many hours in each other’s company and recited the chaplet each night together.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dale Miller on June 15, 2010; her brothers, Herbert and Ferdinand; her sisters, Anita (2 yrs. old), Florence, Bernadine, and Rita.

She is survived by her children, Richard (Donna) Miller of Seneca, KS, June (Robert) Bieri of Derby, KS, Dwayne (Shirley) Miller of St. George, KS, Jan (Donald) Stallbaumer of Frankfort, KS, Jeanette (Gary) Heiman of Seneca, KS, Joan (Roger) Haverkamp of  Kelly, KS, Dean (Vickie) Miller of Manhattan, KS, and Jackie (Brian) Fragel of Marysville, KS; her sister, Frances Rottinghaus of Seneca, KS; and eleven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca, KS. Rosary will be recited Monday, February 5, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. Family will greet friends from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Popkess Memorial Chapel in Seneca, KS. Private family inurnment will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sts. Peter & Paul Grade School or Crestview Nursing & Residential or the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital, sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle, Seneca, KS 66538. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Emma Mae Rooney, 89, of Hiawatha, died Thursday evening, February 1, 2018, at the Hiawatha Community Hospital.

She was born in Falls City, Nebraska March 22, 1928, one of four children born to the late George and Elizabeth Mackey Proctor and has lived in the Falls City/Hiawatha areas all of her life.  She grew up at Falls City where she attended school.

Emma loved to fish, camp, and loved her children, grand children, and spending time with her great-grandchildren.  She raised her grandchildren like they were one of her own.
She married Orlie “O.J” Rooney at Sabetha, October 20, 1958.  They made Hiawatha their home all their married life where they raised their children and grand children.  One of her most significant memory was when her and O,J, celebrated their 50th Anniversary.

Emma was preceded in death by her parents; husband Orlie “O.J.” in 2013; a sister Nellie LaCounte; two brothers Donald Proctor and Jimmy Proctor.

Survivors include her children:  Lloyd Hawes, Jenny Rooney, Miranda Nadeau, Tonia Hawes; 7 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

Due to cold weather/snow in the forecast, the graveside will be held at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha, at 2 p.m. Tuesday, February 6, 2018.  Youth Pastor Ryan VanPeureusm, of First Baptist Church, will officiate.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Monday.  The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services.

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

Jo Ann Wenger, 88, of Topeka, formerly of Hiawatha, died Thursday, February 1, 2018, at Midland Hospice in Topeka.

She was born August 27, 1929, near Hiawatha, one of two children born to George Buckley and LaVena “Tillie” Wolf and has lived in the northeast Kansas area nearly all of her life. She grew up in Hiawatha where she attended Hiawatha Schools, later graduating from Hiawatha High School with the class of 1947.  Jo Ann started working for the state of Kansas, Social & Rehabilitation Services in Hiawatha in 1960, retiring in 1994 after 34 years of service.  She moved to Topeka to be near family in 2004.

Jo Ann attended the First Christian Church in Hiawatha.  She enjoyed cooking, baking, sewing and crocheting, but she REALLY enjoyed her grandchildren!

Survivors include two daughters Pamela Karns (Chuck Wurtz) of Topeka, Peggy Hudson (Ralph) of Danville, Illinois; a son Patrick Wenger (Theresa) of Concord, California; 9 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother Theodore Buckley.

Services are planned for 11 a.m. Friday, February 9, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.  Pastor Dennis Fullbright of the First Christian Church will officiate.  Interment will follow at the Hiawatha Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Thursday.  The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services.

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

Raymond Bosch, Jr., 45, of Effingham, KS died Sunday, Jan. 28th, 2018 from injuries sustained in a single vehicle accident near 22nd & Main St., Atchison, KS.

Memorial Services will be 10:00 AM Friday, February 9th, 2018 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Rev. Jeff Cochran officiating. The body has been cremated according to his wishes. Private Family burial of cremated remains will be at a later date. The Family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Thursday February 8, 2018 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Raymond was born on May 5th, 1972 in Atchison, KS the son of Raymond and Elizabeth “Sis” (Goodpaster) Bosch, Sr. He graduated from Dekalb High School in 1990 and concurrently earned a Certification in Auto Mechanics from Hillyards Vo-Tech, Saint Joseph, MO. Raymond grew up in Rushville, MO and vicinity and was known by his family, friends and community for his incredible knowledge of auto mechanics. Just after his high school years, his mother, he and his close friends constructed what would later become a place where he would spend considerable time during his 20’s and 30’s maintaining and repairing automobiles and spending time with his family and friends, Raymond’s garage. Raymond worked in the steel industry for over 22 years where he completed his time as a 2nd shift Melting Supervisor for Bradken (formerly Atchison Casting) in July 2016. Raymond joined Henke Manufacturing, Leavenworth, KS during October 2016, where he remained a 2nd Shift Production Supervisor, until his death. Between employment, Raymond brought his wife’s childhood dream to reality when he assisted with the construction, electrical and finishing of his family’s new home, on the farm, in rural Effingham, KS. It was several years ago that Raymond was introduced to Dirt Track Racing when his brother-in-law allowed him his first drive in the “Green Weenie”. From that moment, dirt tracking racing became his passion. He purchased his son and himself race cars, and from there, he never looked back. In his racing career, Raymond earned a first-place finish and several top placements. He loved his racing family. Through it all, Raymond was known for his quiet calmness, compassion and determination to finish the job. He was a family man. He loved his three children more than anything and was proud of their accomplishments no matter how big or small. He enjoyed spending time with them, riding 4-wheelers, shooting guns, working on cars and watching all their athletic events and dancing routines. He was the steady in his family and had an incredible ability to weather any storm.

He was married to Leslie Bromley on July 8, 2015. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include a son, Brennen Bosch, of the home, a daughter, Malorie Bosch, of the home, and step-daughter Katie Beien, of the home, his mother, Elizabeth “Sis” Barwald, Rushville, MO, his step-father, Gaylord “Leon” Barwald, Rushville, MO, his father Raymond Bosch, Sr., Weston, MO and half-sister, Raylene Bosch, Weston, MO.

Kenneth Wayne Shurtleff, 64, passed away on January 31, 2018 after a long battle with lung cancer and COPD.  He was born in Falls City, Nebraska, on February 7, 1953, the only son of Wayne Shurtleff and Rose Parker Shurtleff.

Kenny graduated from Falls City High School with the class of 1971. He enlisted in the US Marines on August 2, 1971 at Omaha, NE. He earned a National Defense Service Medal, Pistol Sharpshooter Badge, Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, Letter of Commendation and a Good Conduct Medal with 1 Star. He was honorably discharged on June 14, 1977 at Lansing, MI. He married Barbara Vollmer on September 27, 1986 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church rural Falls City. The couple have one son, Derek James Shurtleff, of Falls City. The Shurtleff family lived in Lincoln, NE and Milford, NE and currently reside in Falls City.

Kenny worked in various jobs in Falls City and Lincoln, retiring from the United States Postal Service in Lincoln in 2013 after twenty plus years. Kenny was a member of the American Legion Post 0102. 

Kenny was a true Nebraska Husker fan, he enjoyed watching all types of sports but especially golf. He also enjoyed golfing, hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his wife and son; mother-in-law, Dorothy Vollmer; sisters, Jean Sailors, Mary and Rodney Wissmann, and Harriett Shurtleff all of Falls City; sister-in-law Leann and James Nelson, Aurora; brother-in-law, Tim Wood, North Platte; nieces and nephews; and many good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Sue Petsche, Annice Utecht, and Carol Shurtleff; father-in-law, Harold Vollmer; and sister-in-law, Lynett Wood.

Visitation will be from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Sunday, February 4, 2018 at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home, 2303 Harlan St, Falls City, NE. 

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 5, 2018 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 6 mi. north of Falls City with Reverend Daniel Gifford officiating. Interment will be in St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Cemetery. Military graveside honors by Falls City Ceremonial Honor Guard.

Sister Mary (Mary Arthur) Kratina, OSB, 93, a Benedictine sister of Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, Kans., died Thursday, February 1, 2018, at the monastery. The vigil service will be Sunday, February 4, at 4:00 p.m. in the monastery chapel, and the Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated there Monday, February 5, at 10:30 a.m.

Sister Mary was born in Chicago, Ill., on April 2, 1924, but spent most of her childhood in the Rossville, Kan., area. After graduating from Immaculate Conception High School in St. Marys, Kan., she worked as a welder during World War II until entering the monastery in 1944. She earned her B.S. in education at Mount St. Scholastica College and M.S. in education at St. Louis University, and pursued further studies at the University of Detroit and Washburn University. She taught in area schools and was also a principal for several years. Later, she served in religious education for children and adults in several parishes, conducting workshops, leading prayer groups, and teaching in ecumenical settings, and also taught in St. Marys, Kan. Returning to Atchison in 1998, she was laundry supervisor for eight years.

Sister Mary was preceded in death by her parents Helen and John Kratina, and her brother George Kratina. She is survived by her brother John M. (Marjorie) Kratina, sister-in-law Patricia Kratina, the families of nieces Tammy (Dennis) Biswell of Wamego and Debra (Karim) Hazim of Topeka, and nephew John M. (Cynthia) Kratina of Topeka, and her monastic family. Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home (beckerdyer.com) is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be sent to Mount St. Scholastica or made online at the Mount’s web site (www.mountosb.org).

Sister Mary (Mary Arthur) Kratina, OSB, 93, a Benedictine sister of Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, Kans., died Thursday, February 1, 2018, at the monastery. The vigil service will be Sunday, February 4, at 4:00 p.m. in the monastery chapel, and the Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated there Monday, February 5, at 10:30 a.m.

Sister Mary was born in Chicago, Ill., on April 2, 1924, but spent most of her childhood in the Rossville, Kan., area. After graduating from Immaculate Conception High School in St. Marys, Kan., she worked as a welder during World War II until entering the monastery in 1944. She earned her B.S. in education at Mount St. Scholastica College and M.S. in education at St. Louis University, and pursued further studies at the University of Detroit and Washburn University. She taught in area schools and was also a principal for several years. Later, she served in religious education for children and adults in several parishes, conducting workshops, leading prayer groups, and teaching in ecumenical settings, and also taught in St. Marys, Kan. Returning to Atchison in 1998, she was laundry supervisor for eight years.

Sister Mary was preceded in death by her parents Helen and John Kratina, and her brother George Kratina. She is survived by her brother John M. (Marjorie) Kratina, sister-in-law Patricia Kratina, the families of nieces Tammy (Dennis) Biswell of Wamego and Debra (Karim) Hazim of Topeka, and nephew John M. (Cynthia) Kratina of Topeka, and her monastic family. Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home (beckerdyer.com) is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be sent to Mount St. Scholastica or made online at the Mount’s web site (www.mountosb.org).

Harry E. Kiehl, Jr. 69, of Atchison, KS, passed away Wednesday, January 31, 2018 at Mosaic Life Care Center, St. Joseph, MO.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 AM, Saturday, February 3, 2018 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atchison, KS with Father Jeremy Heppler, OSB, as celebrant.  Private family burial will be at a later date at Corpus Christi Cemetery.  Family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, February 2, 2018 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS. Memorials are suggested to the Shriner’s and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences may be left atwww.beckerdyer.com.

Harry was born August 13, 1948 the son of Harry and Bette Cox (Robinson) Kiehl.  He graduated from Atchison High School and served in the United States Airforce.  Harry owned and operated Kiehl Trucking.  He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Elk’s and the VFW.  Harry knew no stranger and could talk and visit with anyone and everyone.  He enjoyed racing and participating in Truck Driving Championships having drove over eight million miles accident free and watching his grandkids.

Harry married Delores Cline on December 30, 1967, she survives of the home.  Additional survivors include three sons; Harry (Jennifer) Kiehl, III, Atchison, KS, Tony (Kim) Kiehl, Atchison, KS, Chris (Tabitha) Kiehl, Atchison, KS, seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Carol E. Pierce, 89 of Atchison, KS, passed away Saturday, January 27, 2018 at her home surrounded by her family.

Memorial service will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church, with Rev. Robert Ziegler officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens, Atchison, KS. Family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the church. Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church or Multiple Sclerosis and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Carol was born on July 29, 1928 in Atchison, KS, the daughter of Charles and Elva (Chilson) Brun. She graduated from Atchison High School in 1946. Carol worked as a nurse’s aide for twenty-five year for the Atchison Hospital. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and the VFW Auxiliary. Carol and her husband were a Head Start foster family for many years. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting, flowers, reading and going to First Steps Childhood Learning Center and being with the kids. Carol especially loved her grandchildren.

Carol married Lawrence Pierce on August 31, 1946 in Atchison, KS. He preceded her in death on August 19, 2002. Survivors include three daughters, Janice (Dean) Lawrence, Platte City, MO, Linda (Rick) Dorssom, Atchison, KS, Lea Ann Callaway, Atchison, KS, eight grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, a son Larry Pierce, two brothers, Kenneth Brun, Warren Brun, and a son in law Jack Callaway.