Our Father in Heaven open His arms to receive Ferne Evelyn Cutshall on, Sunday, December 30, 2018, she passed away at Colonial Acres, Humboldt, Nebraska at the age of 95 years, 5 months, and 6 days.  Ferne was born on July 24, 1923 in Bern, Kansas, to Anton and Minnie (Gewecke) Rasmussen  Ferne graduated from Bern High School in 1941. Ferne married Glenn W. Cutshall November 29, 1941 in Papillon, Nebraska. They were married 57 years, before Glenn passed away on  May 22, 1999.  In 1952 Ferne accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her personal Savior.  Ferne was a member of Faith Baptist Church in Pawnee City, Nebraska since 1953.  She had a Good News Club in her home, taught Sunday school and helped with AWANA. Ferne was a devoted wife and wonderful caring Mother.  She cherished her family and above all else she was a women of strong Christian faith who loved the Lord.  She loved to read her Bible every day.  She enjoyed baking cinnamon rolls, angel food cakes, taking a walk, and gardening.  She loved sitting on the porch swing listening to the little wrens.

Ferne was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Glenn Cutshall, her sisters, Belva Cox, Pearle Howell, Leona Kooser, her brothers, Raymond Rasmussen, Leland Rasmussen and grandson David Cutshall.

She is survived by her children, Bonnie Meyer (Russell) of Owasso, OK, Karen Binder (Richard) of Table Rock, NE, Mike Cutshall (Sharon) of Topeka, KS, Brenda Moreels (Dave) of Stewartsville, MO, and Tracy Bredow (Mark) of Topeka, KS.

Also loved by 13 grandchildren, Todd Meyer (Tracy), Shayla McQueary (Steven), Darwin Binder (Jennifer), Dustin Binder (Jenny), LaShawn Noel (Blake), Matt Cutshall, Michelle Kirk (Doug), Monte Cutshall (Tamara), Casey Potter (Derrick), Melissa Stallbaumer, Julie Stallbaumer, Nathan Bredow, Carly Bredow.

She was blessed with 23 great grandchildren, Lexi, Peyton, Taylor, Kaitlyn, Madison, Megan (Andrew), Rachel, Juliana, Clayton, Brooklyn, Kristin, Kallista, Wyatt, Lily-Kate, Weslyn, Shelby, Sheyann, Austin, Ashley, Whitney, Mathew, JD, Roman  and one great great grandson, Milo.  Also surviving many nieces, nephews and host of friends.

Services 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 4, 2019 at Faith Baptist, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Officiating Pastor Chris Rohrbaugh. Visitation on Thursday, January 3, 2019 form 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Interment at the Bern Cemetery, Bern, Kansas. Memorials to family choice.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com
 

Dortha Mae (Bell) Wikle, 94, of Sabetha, KS died Saturday, December 29, 2018 at the Apostolic Christian Home.

Mrs. Wikle was born in Powhattan, Kansas on March 7, 1924 to Ralph and Josephine (Krebs) Bell. She was one of six children born to this union. Dortha grew up in the Powhattan, Fairview and Sabetha area. She attended Pleasant Dale School and graduated from Fairview High School. She was a homemaker and ran a beauty shop out of their home for many years. They farmed south of Fairview for many years until Leslie’s death. She moved to the Apostolic Christian apartments in 2013.

She was united in marriage to Leslie Wikle on March 12, 1944 in Sabetha, Kansas. Two daughters and one son were born to this union. Dortha was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Sabetha, and a member of the Rebekah Lodge and the Quindecim club.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Leslie; a son, Cedric; a brother, Raymond Bell; a sister, Donna Vermillion; and a grandson, Mark Werner.

She is survived by two sisters, Dora Davis of Apache Junction, Arizona, and Betty Hoffman of Clarinda, Iowa; a brother, Art Bell of St. Joseph, Missouri; two daughters, Ireta Werner of Topeka, Kansas, and Bonnie Mendenhall of Colorado Springs, Colorado; three grandchildren, Chris Snyder of Pueblo, Colorado, Jared Mendenhall of Santa Cruz, California, and Kim Forsythe of Northpole, Alaska; and five great-grandchildren, Ashley Runstadler, Alexa Sandoval, Jaden Mendenhall, Asher Mendenhall, and Serena Mendenhall; and two great-great grandchildren, Skyler Runstadler and Rylie Runstadler.

Funeral services will be Thursday, January 3, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha, KS. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. prior to service time at the funeral home. Interment will be made at the Isley Cemetery following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Nemaha County Home Health & Hospice, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Blanche (Kugler) Dye, 99, of Centralia, KS passed away Friday, December 28, 2018.

Blanche “Billie” was born in Centralia, KS on July 22, 1919 to John Peter and Elizabeth (Marticke) Kugler. She graduated from rural White Hall School and later Centralia High School in 1936. Blanche was employed by the Centralia Telephone Company before moving to Wichita in 1941 to work in aircraft factories during World War II.

Blanche married Frances E. Harmon in 1942. They were later divorced. In 1964 Blanche married Orvan L. “Pappy” Dye. They enjoyed travelling and toured 46 of the continental United States, Canada, and Mexico.  She retired as a secretary to the Personnel Manager of Cessna Aircraft Company in Wichita, KS. She returned to Centralia to make it her home in January 1987.

Blanche was a member of the Leisure Lodge Club, Kensington Club, Centralia Reading Circle, Maize Friendship Club (EHU), a board member of the Centralia Library, Beta Sigma Sorority, and the Rose Douglas Chapter. She was also a member of the Eastern Star in Wichita, KS and served several years on the funeral service.

She loved gardening and music. Her favorite song was “Rhapsody in Blue” by Gershwin.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Orvan “Pappy” Dye in 1982; Sister Esther in 1935 and sister Blondena in 1999.

She is survived by her niece Mary K Patterson of Liberty, MO; seven great nephews, Brian, Richard, Steve, Tracy, Bill, Bob and Chris; one great niece, Pam; and several great-great nieces and nephews.  

Funeral service will be held Thursday, January 3, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the Centralia Community Church – West in Centralia, KS. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to service time at the church. Interment will be made in the Old Mission Cemetery in Wichita, KS. Memorial contributions may be made to the Centralia Library or charity of donor’s choice, sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle Street, Seneca, KS 66538. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

William Samuel Ellerman, 84, passed away December 29, 2018 at Mosaic Life Care.

Mr. Ellerman has been cremated under the direction of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home and no services are planned.  A register book will be available after 8:00 A.M. on Wednesday, January 2, 2019 at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to the Mark Bottorff Scholarship or New Life Assembly of God Royal Rangers and may be left in care of the funeral home.

William was born September 13, 1934 to Miles and Mary (Vincent) Ellerman in Atchison County.

William married Mary Jane Gore on October 24, 1959 in Nortonville Kansas. William lived and farmed on the family homestead all of his life. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed his wolf hounds. He loved seeing and visiting with his neighbors and friends.

William is survived by his wife, three sons William and Mary, Chester, Virginia; Thomas and Shannon, Atchison, Kansas; James and Julia, Lancaster, Kansas and one daughter Jane and Jim Bartlett, Atchison, Kansas. Six grandchildren and four great grandchildren and one brother Donald Ellerman, Nortonville, Kansas.

William is proceeded in death by his parents Miles and Mary Ellerman.

William Franklin “Billy” Stonebarger, 45, of Greenleaf, KS, formerly of Highland, died unexpectedly Friday, December 28, 2018, in Washington, KS.

Billy was born in St. Joseph, Missouri, December 31, 1972, the son of Charles and Hannah “Jody” Weiland Stonebarger.  He grew up in Highland where he attended Highland schools, gradating with the class of 1990, soon after he moved to Greenleaf to make his home.    He learned welding as a trade and was working for Titan West, Inc. at Linn, KS for nearly 15 years; and 10 years with the previous owner.

He enjoyed hunting, and fishing.  To say he enjoyed riding his Harley was an understatement!

He married Ida Jorgenson November 22, 1992.  To this union, Crysta and Dalton were born, before Billy and Ida divorced.  On July 3, 2010, he married Melissa Russell.  She survives of the home with her children Joe and Serina.

Survivors include his mother Hannah “Jody” of Hiawatha; sisters Lucinda of Hiawatha, Jessica of St. Joseph; grandson Grayson; with nieces, nephews and numerous cousins.

Billy was preceded in death by his father Charles; brother Jason; both sets of grandparents and a step-daughter Veronica Hogle, many aunts and uncles.

A Gathering to Celebrate Billy’s life is planned to start at 1 p.m. Friday, January 4, to last thru the afternoon, at Greenleaf Club House, Greenleaf, KS.

The family will also meet with friends Sunday afternoon from 4 to 6 at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, in Highland.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Billy Stonebarger Memorial Fund, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, PO Box 33, Highland 66035.

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

Glendonald “Bud” Runyan, 94, of Falls City, Nebraska passed away December 27, 2018. He was born July 22, 1924 one and a half miles north of Barada, Nebraska to Don and Frieda “Fritz” (Kammerer) Runyan. He was baptized at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church on November 9, 1924 and also later confirmed there.

Bud graduated 8th grade from Cottier School, then from Falls City High School in 1942. After high school he farmed until he was drafted into the U. S. Army in 1945. He had basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He was stationed at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii where he was a weather observer and radio operator for one year. He was a corporal and was decorated with an Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon and received a Victory Medal. He then returned home to farming. On June 19, 1949 he married Gertrude Biedenweg at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, rural Falls City. Gertie passed away November 2, 2014. Bud was a member of St. Peter’s church and served on many boards. He was a former member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Brotherhood. This past March, the Shubert American Legion Post #222 honored Bud with a certificate for 70 years of continuous membership. Bud really enjoyed farming. He designed and built several pieces of farm machinery including numerous planters and detasseling equipment. If something was broken he would always try to fix it to keep it running. He also worked on the Meriwether Lewis Dredge on the Missouri River.

Bud is survived by a sister, Nelle Pfister, children, Roxann (Mark) Stitzer of Salem, NE, Don (Becky) Runyan, Joni Milam, all of rural Falls City, and Gaye Runyan of Nebraska City. Grandchildren, Staci (Derek) Deger of Firth, NE, Judd (Jamie) Milam of Falls City, Darcy (Paul) Demmel of Chicago, IL, Brooke (Brian) Adam of Lincoln, NE, Jace (Amanda) Milam of Salem, MO, Andy Runyan of York, NE, Courtney (Byron) Anway of Lincoln, NE and Maggie Ochsner of Orange, CA. Great-grandchildren, Drake and Gage Deger, Braiden Gapsch, Baylee and Brynlee Adam, Ellie Milam, Amalia Demmel, Parker Milam, Ashlyn and Jaelyn Milam, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a sister at birth and a son-in-law, Steve Milam.

His funeral will be held on Monday, December 31, 2018 at 10:30 AM at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, northeast of Falls City, with Pastor Jerry Yount officiating. Interment will be in Williamsville Cemetery. Military graveside honors by Shubert American Legion assisted by the Falls City Ceremonial Honor Guard.

The family will receive friends on Sunday from 3-4:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Francis Edward “Doc” Sprang, 92, of Valley Falls, KS died Monday, December 24, 2018 at the F.W. Huston Senior Living Center, Winchester, KS.

Masonic service followed by funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 3, 2019 at the O’Trimble Funeral Home, Nortonville, KS with Active Masonie Lodge # 158, and Rev. Jeff Cochran officiating. Burial will follow in the Nortonville Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Meals on Wheels of Eastern Kansas, Inc. or Hospice of Jefferson County, and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family can be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Francis Edward Sprang was born on February 13, 1926 in Effingham, KS, the only child of W. Bryan and Leota Ada (Binkley) Sprang. Francis grew up on a farm and graduated in 1944 from high school at Atchison County Community High School in Effingham, KS. He was married to Virginia Lee McGrew on September 23, 1945 in Emporia, KS. They lived on the family farm south of Effingham, KS and operated a Holstein dairy for over 25 years. Their registered Holstein-Friesian herds at Fran-Gin Acres became widely known, and they were involved for many years in dairy industry organizations at the county and state level. In 1978, they moved to Valley Falls, KS and a few years later to a property near Boyle, KS. Francis worked for the Weights and Measures Division of the Kansas Board of Agriculture as a small scale inspector for nineteen years until his retirement in 1991. He was a 68-year member of the Masonic Fraternity, Mount Zion Lodge #266, Topeka, KS.

He is survived by a son, Rick and his wife Susan Sprang, Effingham, KS; a daughter, Janet and her husband, Jack Ayres, Scottsdale, AZ; 7 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Virginia; a son, Dennis E. Sprang; and his parents.

Jeanne Giles, age 82, of Lincoln, died 12-24-2018 at Southlake Village under the loving care of Kindred Hospice. Jeanne Giles was born October 3, 1936 in Sioux City, IA to Harmon and Esther (Rosofsky) Barton. The family moved to Omaha in 1941, where Jeanne attended school and graduated from South High School in 1954. Jeanne married Robert L. Giles on May 11, 1956 at Wheeler Memorial Presbyterian Church in Omaha. To this union three daughters were born, Jennifer Sue, Julie Lynne, and Janine Ann.

Jeanne attended Omaha University, now the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) and received a BS in Journalism May, 1958 and a BS in Elementary Education August, 1961. She returned to school and received an MS in Elementary Education in August, 1976 from UNO and received an MS in Speech-Language Pathology in August, 1994 from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.

In 1961, the family moved to San Anselmo, California, where Robert (Bob) attended San Francisco Theological Seminary. Jeanne taught school at Novato, California. The family moved to Las Vegas, Nevada during seminary so Bob could complete an internship. The family moved back to San Anselmo and Bob graduated from seminary in 1965.

In 1965, the family moved to Falls City, Nebraska where Bob accepted his first call to the First United Presbyterian Church. Jeanne taught preschool at the church before starting at Falls City Public Schools where she taught for seven years. Jeanne taught at Southeast Consolidated, Stella, Nebraska for eleven years.

Jeanne ended her teaching career as a Speech-Language Pathologist at ESU No. 4, Lincoln and Waverly Public Schools, Unadilla Community Schools, Sterling Public Schools, Palmyra-Bennet Public Schools, and South Sioux City Public Schools.

Jeanne was an avid writer and photographer starting at Omaha South High School and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She also wrote for Mutual of Omaha, Presbyterians Today, Lincoln Journal-Star, The Falls City Journal, and The Homesteader, a publication of Homestead Presbytery, PCUSA.

Jeanne was also a member of Sweet Adelines International, the Presbyterian Writers Guild, Reading Groups, NSLP (National Speech-Language Pathology), Campfire Girls President/Co-President, PCUSA General Assembly Delegate, Member of the Session, Coordinator for New Pastors, Outstanding Presbyterian Award, Summer Repertoire Theater, Synod Delegate, Choir Director in Falls City, Children’s Ministry Choir Director in Falls City, Member of Westminster, The Landing Choir Member, Band Parents.

The family loved to travel and a highlight was a trip to Alaska with Bob for their 40th Anniversary. They also travelled to many National Parks and Ghost Ranch near Abiquiu, New Mexico. Jeanne traveled to the Hawaiian Islands with her good friend, Nancy Meeker.

Jeanne loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She devoted one wall of every home to photos of her grandchildren.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her husband, Reverend Robert Giles; mother and step-father, Esther and Bob Steinwart; father and step-mother, Harmon and Sadie Barton; brother-in-law John Yacio; and Molly St. Joan of Bark, her beloved dachshund.

Jeanne is survived by:  her children: Jennifer (Dick) James, Verdon, NE, Julie (Mark) Hopp, Dunbar, NE, Janine (Russ) McClintock, Roca, NE; Grandchildren: Sarah James, Papillion, Chris Hopp, Omaha, David (Ally) Hopp, Omaha, Matthew (Bridgette) James, Lincoln, Kyle (Marisa) McClintock, Elkhorn, Brandon (Jordan) McClintock, Lincoln, Zach (Emily) McClintock, Hickman. Great-grandchildren: Moira Hopp, and Rook McClintock; siblings: Larry Barton (Lindy Platt), Omaha; Eddie (Kay) Sebron, Henderson, NV; Judy Yacio, Euless. TX; Frank Sebron (Judy), Omaha; Nick (Diana) Barton, Richmond, TX; Ardi (Don) Blazek, Omaha.

Graveside Service: 10:00 a.m. Saturday (12-29-18) Hopewell Cemetery, Unadilla, NE.

Memorial Service: 1:00 p.m. Saturday (12-29-18) Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2110 Sheridan Blvd. with Rev. Dr. Valerie Putnam officiating.

Memorials to Westminster Presbyterian Church, PCUSA Theological Education Fund or a church that Pastor and Mrs. Giles had served.

Visitation from 3-8 p.m. Friday with family present from 6-7:30 p.m. at Roper and Sons, 4300 ‘O’ Street.

Condolences online at Roperandsons.com.

Randy Ray Grauer, age 61, a prominent Seneca business man, who owned and operated Freddy’s Pizza Palace unexpectedly passed away on Tuesday, December 25, 2018 at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca.

Randy was born on January 11, 1957, in Marysville, Kansas, to George "Butch" and Alberta "Red" (Coffman) Grauer. Randy grew-up around the area—living in Marysville, Sabetha, and Seneca. He graduated from Nemaha Valley High School in 1975 where enjoyed playing football.

Four years later, on October 13, 1979, Randy married Janice (Heideman) Grauer at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Randy and Janice had two children together, Maranda and Tara.

An entrepreneur, Randy owned and operated several businesses throughout his life. Following high school, Randy purchased Randy's Standard Service. He then worked for his father-in-law, George Heideman, at Heideman Locker, which Randy later took over and renamed Seneca Meat Market. Continuing in the butchering business, Randy also founded Wild Thing Processing, where he butchered deer and other game. But Randy did not just butcher meat—he could cook it too. Randy and his wife Janice ran Freddy's Pizza Palace for two stints between 1983 and the present, for a total of 25 years. In addition to his own businesses, Randy worked at Haverkamp's Grocery in Centralia and Big B Thriftway in Seneca.

Outside of work, Randy enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren: Dylann, Mykal, Emersyn, and Ryder. Randy was a member of the Sons of the American Legion. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who never backed down from a challenge. A man of many talents, Randy also liked to work on antique cars, motorcycles, and go-carts. Randy was known to enjoy a “occasional” Budweiser and some may remember his monkey, which often tagged along with him. Taken too soon, Randy will be greatly missed.

Randy was proceeded in death by both of his parents; his father-in-law, George Heideman and his brother, Terry Grauer.

Randy is survived by his wife, Janice of 39 years, his daughters, Maranda (Lg) Novotny of Seneca and Tara (Andrew) Lohmann of Topeka, and four grandchildren.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 and 7 P.M. on Friday, December 28, 2018 at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, December 29, 2018 at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. The Burial will be in the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery in Seneca.

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

Raymond W. Montgomery, 90, lifelong Atchison resident, passed away Christmas morning, December 25, 2018 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Montgomery has been cremated and a Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Croix Hospice or Atchison First Christian Church and may be sent to the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who is entrusted with Mr. Montgomery’s funeral arrangements. Words of sympathy and remembrance may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Raymond was born on February 18, 1928 in Atchison, the son of Raymond K. and Edna L. (Knapp) Montgomery. Raymond graduated from Atchison High School in 1946. Raymond had worked most of his life in the roofing trade, having worked many years for Allied Materials & Equipment Co in Kansas City, MO. Raymond was a member the Atchison First Christian Church; Atchison Kiwanis Club for over 25 years, having served a term as President; and the Atchison Masonic Lodge. Raymond enjoyed fishing, hunting, golf, KU Basketball and singing with the Atchison Rivermen. Raymond especially loved his family and spending time with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Raymond married Patricia A. Hofacre on July 13, 1947 in Kansas City, KS.

Survivors include Raymond’s wife of 71 years, Patricia; their children, Peggy A. Montgomery (Gary) Wohlgemuth, Raymond W. (Rebecca) Montgomery II, Robert G. (Mary Jane) Montgomery and Elizabeth L. Montgomery; brother, Michael E. Montgomery; seven grandchildren; six great grandchildren and six great-great grandchildren.

Darcy Kaye Rodvelt, 54, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Monday, December 24, 2018 at the Wathena Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Wathena, Kansas.

He was born on December 2, 1964 in Horton, Kansas the son of Eugene and Ruth Grossner Rodvelt. Darcy graduated from the Horton High School.

Darcy was a farmer and stockman all his life. He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church. Survivors include two brothers, Doug Rodvelt of rural Horton, Kansas and David Rodvelt of rural Hiawatha, Kansas; aunts, Norma Rodvelt, Linda Gunn, Cathy Iverson, Donna Barnhart, Sharon Rodvelt, Connie Rodvelt, Patricia Rodvelt  and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will greet friends from 2:30 P.M. until 3:00 P.M. on Friday, December 28, 2018 at the Zion Lutheran Church north of Everest, Kansas with funeral services to follow at 3:00 P.M. Burial will be in the Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Darcy Rodvelt memorial fund to be designated later and may be sent in care of the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas.

A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Deane Wilbur Thorson, 92, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, December 25, 2018 at the Horton Community Hospital.

Deane the only child of Ward W. and Senova Tobiason Thorson, was born on August 15, 1926 at their home north of Everest, Kansas. Deane attended Union Dale  rural school, Everest junior high, and the Horton junior and senior high school, graduating in 1944. He entered the U.S. Army in November of 1944 and served until October 1946, at which time he returned and farmed with his father on the farm north of Horton. He served over thirty years as director of dairy cooperatives, and retired from the dairy business in 1987.

He was married on June 12, 1948 to Emily J. Burgert, only daughter of Ernest and Gladys Narbett Burgert. To this union four children were born, Patricia Anne of Topeka, Kansas, Randall Deane of Horton, Kansas, Mark Bradley of Mission, Kansas and Darren Michael of Horton, Kansas. He is also survived by two daughters-in-laws, Connie and Tambra as well as 7 grandchildren, Elizabeth Ann, Blake Edward, Mark Bradley Jr., Katherine Jule, Brent Michael, Cole Dillon and Annika Nicole; 4 great grandchildren, 7 step great grandchildren plus 2 more great grandchildren arriving in the spring.

Deane was a lifelong member of the Zion Lutheran Church of rural Everest, Kansas where he served on the church council and participated in vocal music for a long period of time. He also was a longtime member of the Horton Lakeview Country Club.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, December 28, 2018 at the Zion Lutheran Church north of Everest, Kansas where the family will greet friends from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the church. Memorials may be made to the Zion Lutheran Church and may be sent in care of the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com 

Tony Acton, 47, of Falls City, NE, passed away December 25, 2018 at Falls City. He was born August 6, 1947 at Hiawatha, KS to John Acton and Georgia Hamilton.

He married Tami Johansen on August 8, 2006 at Reno, NV.

Tony was raised near Craig, MO and graduated Craig High School in 1989. He graduated boot camp his junior of high school and following his high school graduated he joined the Navy full time. He was an air traffic controller on air craft carriers. When he was honorably discharged he worked and lived in various places. When married the couple made their home in Falls City and he worked for Armstrong Cabinet Factor in Auburn.

Tony is survived by his wife, Tami of Falls City, step-children, Amber Newman and her fiancé Charlie Liberty of Humboldt, NE, Sky Shy and her husband Mike of Falls City, Jordon Newman and his wife Sarah of Falls City, mother, Georgia Jones and her husband Richard of Falls City, step-mother, Lori Acton of Lenexa, KS, brothers, Jim Radley and his wife Kim of Council Bluffs, IA, Tim Radley and his wife Angel of Reno, NV, Jeremy Radley and his wife Tish of Falls City, John Acton of St. Joseph, MO, Tom Acton and his wife Lacey of Falls City, grandmother, Gertrude Hamilton of Horton, KS, brother-in-law, Donald Holle of Falls City and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, John and a step-father, Carroll Radley.

A celebration of life service will be held on Monday, December 31, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Good News Assembly of God Church with Pastor Tim Boatright officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials be made to the funeral home to help offset funeral expenses.

No viewing or visitation at the funeral home.

Raymond K. Fairbanks, 94, of Larkinburg, died Friday, December 21, 2018 at the Midland at Linnwood Nursing Home in Valley Falls.

He was born January 19, 1924 at Onaga, the son of Ira and Carolina Albin Fairbanks.  He graduated from OnagaHigh School in 1942.

Raymond was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, having served from 1943 to 1946 at Saipan, Okinawa, and with the army occupational force in Japan.  He was a member of the first Honor Flight for veterans sponsored by Jackson Heights.

He was a member of the Larkinburg Christian Church and since 1951, a member of Mayetta Masonic Lodge No. 393, A.F.&A.M.

Raymond retired from Goodyear in Topeka and was a farmer and a stockman.

He married Irene V. Neal on November 6, 1946 in Holton.  She preceded him in death on October 22, 2011.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents and all of his siblings.

Survivors include a son, Randy Fairbanks and wife Tammy, Eureka Springs, AR, a daughter, Kristi Springstead and husband Wayne, Holton, a special great nephew, Dan Fairbanks and wife Candy, in Michigan, six grandchildren, Kari Irvin (Patrick, Kurtis Springstead (Rachel), Kadi Atteberry (Mike), Bailey Springstead, Justin Fairbanks (Casie) and Amber Fairbanks, and thirteen great grandchildren, Alex and Kelsea Irvin, Adalease, Lillian and Logan Springstead, Charlotte, Sadie and Kacy Atteberry, Kaitly, Lexi, Piper and Aspen Fairbanks and Jacob Wilson.

Memorial services with Masonic rites will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 4th at the Larkinburg Christian Church.  Inurnment, with military honors of Raymond, and his wife Irene will follow in the Larkinburg Cemetery.  Family and friends will meet from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 3rd at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Holton.  Memorials are suggested to Jefferson County Friends of Hospice and may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 1034, Holton, KS 66436.  On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

          Christian Michael Carter, 22, of New Market, IA, formerly of Mayetta, KS, passed away Friday, December 21, 2018 at the result to a car accident in Shenandoah, IA. He was born December 29, 1995 in Topeka, KS the son of Raphael C. Carter and Amy Marie Lawrence.

          Christian graduated from Royal Valley High School in 2014 and graduated from Washburn Tech with an Associate’s Degree as an Industrial Technician.

          He worked for Reeser’s in Topeka in mechanical maintenance and most recently worked for NSK-AKS Steel Ball Company in mechanical maintenance in St. Clarinda, IA.

          Christian attended the Calvary Lutheran Church in Topeka, KS.

          Survivors include his fiancé, Dakota Culley of Shenandoah, IA; son, Jace Michael Carter of Mayetta, KS; daughter, Caytlin Marie Carter of Shenandoah, IA; a son “on the way”, Christian James Carter; his mother, Amy Lawrence of Topeka, KS; his father, Raphael C. Carter; his brothers, Aaron O. Lawrence and Vincent S. Carter both of Topeka, KS; his sister, Alexis G. Carter of Topeka, KS; maternal grandparents, Norman and Marie Foster of Topeka, KS; paternal grandparents, Dennis and Martha Miller of Topeka, KS and Ralph Carter of Topeka, KS and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

          He was preceded by his maternal grandfather, Darren Alvin Lawrence.

          Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 28, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home. Cremation will follow the service with inurnment at a later date in the Hoyt Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Christian Carter Memorial Fund to be designated at a later date c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Mary Margaret Underwood, 67 of Atchison KS, passed away Sunday, December 23, 2018, at the Atchison Hospital.

Memorial service will be 3:00 PM, Saturday, December 29, 2018 at the First Baptist Church, Atchison, KS, with Rev. Michael Strickland officiating. Burial will be at a later date. Family will receive friends prior to the service from 2:00 to 3:00 PM at the church. Memorials are suggested to First Baptist Church or American Cancer Society 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.

Mary was born October 23, 1951 in Clarinda, IA, the daughter of James and Marjorie (Parker) Lane. She graduated from West Nodaway RI High School in 1969 and then attended Gard Business University. Mary worked for the Social Security Administration from 1970 to 1972 and the Department of Defense from 1973 to retirement in 1999. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, serving as a Sunday school teacher and the Mission Board. Mary also was a member of Amelia Earhart Chapter 621 National Association of Active and Retired Federal Employees serving as Vice President and Public Relations. She enjoyed sewing and counter cross-stitch and puzzles.

Mary married Ronald Underwood on December 23, 1972, he survives of the home. Additional survivors include a son James and Chasity Underwood, Atchison, KS, sisters, Carol Ann (Robert) Payne, Maryville, MO, Susan (Gordon) Postle, Lansdowne, VA, grandchildren, Jaden, Alaina, Collin, and Andrew Underwood.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Virgil R. “Pooch” Rains, 80, of Atchison, KS died on Sunday, December 23, 2018 at the Village Villa Nursing Home, Nortonville, KS.

A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held on Thursday, Dec. 27th, 2018 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the VFW Post # 1175, 2201 Main Street, Atchison. Burial of his cremated remains will be at a later date in the Sugar Creek Cemetery, Rushville, MO. Memorial contributions are suggested to the VFW, Post 1175 or the American Legion Post # 6, both of Atchison and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who is handling the arrangements. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Virgil was born on Sept. 20th, 1938 in Kansas City, MO the son of Russell and Genelle (Farmer) Rains. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1956. He had worked at the former LFM Foundry, Gerardy Machine Shop, and in the Ice Cream Division of Safeway Groceries. He later worked as a plumber for Lee Liechiti Plumbing and himself. Mr. Rains served in the United States Navy from 1960-1964. He was a life time member of the VFW Post # 1175, and the American Legion Post # 6, Atchison, KS, the Pineview Golf Club and the BPOE (Elks). Pooch enjoyed playing softball, bird hunting, fishing, and playing golf. Pooch never knew a stranger and would talk and get to know anyone.

He was married to Sharon Baldridge on Dec. 12, 1958. They were later divorced. Survivors include a daughter, Rusty Willis, Atchison, KS, two brothers, Kenneth Rains, Rushville, MO, and Robert Rains, Atchison, KS, two grandchildren, Jenna and Jon Archer Willis, and special companion Shirley Simpson, and her family, Heather Simpson, DeKalb, MO, and Gene Simpson, Kansas City, MO, and grandchildren, Jaleia, Presley, and Elizabeth. His parents, and a sister, Janice Goodlet, preceded him in death.

Genevieve Arlene Wenger, 94, of Hiawatha, died unexpectedly December 21, 2018, at Vintage Park Assisted Living Facility in Hiawatha, Kansas.

She was born in Topeka, Kansas, on July 23, 1924, the daughter of: Richard Wunsch and Kate Jameson Wunsch. Genevieve attended East Indianola Grade School in North Topeka and graduated from Seaman High School in 1942. She attended Kansas University for one year before going to work for the Santa Fe Railroad Offices in Topeka for 13 years. While there she became President of the Santa Fe Women’s Club. She taught shorthand at Clark’s Business School for one year.

On September 23, 1956 she married Harry Wenger of rural Powhattan, Kansas. Together they raised 2 sons: Eli (Paula) Wenger of Hiawatha and Eric (Kristi) Wenger of Lenexa, Kansas. Also surviving are four grandchildren: Anthony Koehn, Aaron Wenger, Emily Covington and Eric Covington. Her legacy also includes 7 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews that she loved very much.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Margaret McNaught of Oregon and husband Harry.

Genevieve was an accomplished musician and was involved in many community organizations. She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Powhattan where she played the organ and directed the choir for nearly 60 years. She was an active member of the UMW group and served on many of the committees within the church. She was a member of the Women’s Auxiliary to Wenger Post #373 and was recently recognized for 62 years of membership and over 65 years as a member of Eastern Star.

Genevieve very much enjoyed her time in the Hiawatha Music Club where she was a longtime member. She served on the Powhattan USD 510 School board for a number of years and then began working there as the High School Secretary in the late 1970’s. She was a lifelong member of the Girl Scout Troup 10 of North Topeka. Genevieve was actively involved in 4-H in her youth and later in the Modern Sunflowers Club of Powhattan.

Prior to moving to Powhattan she was the Church organist and Choir director for 10 years at Seaman Congregational Church in Topeka. One of her greatest joys in life was giving piano lessons to nearly 200 students through the years. She played for over 100 funerals and nearly as many weddings in the Powhattan area.

A Celebration of Genevieve’s life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 28, at the Powhattan United Methodist Church. Pastor Kevin Rea and Shane Spangler will officiate. Interment will follow at the Powhattan Cemetery.

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to United Methodist Church of Powhattan or the Morrill Free Public Library of Hiawatha, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, Chapel Oaks 124 S7th., Hiawatha, 66434.

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

Ike Pekarek, 80, of rural Reserve, KS, with family by his side, died early Saturday morning, December 22, 2018, at his home.

He was born at Ellsworth, KS, September 10, 1938, the older of two children born to Louis and Eunice Wild Pekarek and moved with his family at the age of 3 to the Padonia/Reserve area where his Dad managed the Bartlett Elevator. Ike attended schools in Reserve, graduating from high school with the class of 1956. During his high school years, he was very active in sports: basketball, football, and was a sprinter in track. He attended two years at Emporia State University before volunteering to serve in the U.S. Army where he spent most of his career at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas. He returned to northeast Kansas where he worked for his Dad a few years at the elevator before working at White Cloud Grain Co., for a career that spanned 35 years before retiring. He started work in White Cloud, later became the manager of the Reverse Branch.

Ike enjoyed his spare time by enjoying being out of doors on the farm, gardening, and his family. He attended the Reserve Christian Church through the years before it disbanded.

He was married to Patricia Kee June 7, 1964, at Oregon, Missouri. They lived nearly all their married life near Reserve. She survives of the home.

Other survivors include two daughters: Susan Pekarek Overland Park, KS, Sara Smith (Shawn) of Hiawatha, KS; a sister Karen Olson of Reserve; two grandchildren: Sydney and Cooper.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Ike’s life is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, December 29, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha. Shane Spangler will officiate. Cremation to follow services with private family inurnment at a later date at Corneilison Cemetery, Reserve.

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

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

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Stanley Lee Watters, 55, of Seneca died on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka with Lynn and Rose by his side.

Stanley was born at the Axtell Kansas Hospital on September 20, 1964 to Donald and Helen Hittle Watters. He was raised in the Axtell Community and attended Axtell Grade School until the age of 12.  The family moved around during his teenage years.  He worked as a hired man; doing farm work and working for dairymen.  Later he worked for a bridge crew building creek bridges; and he also traveled with a company who installed grain bins.

Stanley loved to learn new skill sets; so, he worked for Vermillion Grain and learned how to drive a Big Wheel Tractor, Semi-Trucks and Bulldozers. Later he worked building custom doors, first for Koch and Company for seven years; before transferring to Industrial Mill Works for ten years.  He had to quit working due to his health; diabetes caused him to lose his leg.

To occupy his time, he would rebuild electronics.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by sisters Hilda Hoover, Marysville, Wanita Slack of Newborn, North Carolina, Lynn (Corey) Ricker of Hanover and Rose (Bob) Gilbert of Meridian and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held at Lauer Funeral Home on Saturday, December 22nd from 9:30-10:30 AM; a Funeral Service will be held directly after the visitation at 10:30AM.  Burial will be in the Edinborough Cemetery in Frankfort, Kansas.

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

The Rodeo and Sale Barn World lost a great man, John B. “Jake” Jacobsen, 89, rural Delia passed away Saturday, December 15, 2018 at his home.

He was born July 3, 1929 the oldest son of Clyde F. and Marguerite Crouse Jacobsen at Fairmont, NE. He grew up in the Fairmont community and lived in Nebraska until moving to Kansas over 60 years ago.

He and his wife Pearl along with their family owned and operated Jacobsen Rodeo Company many years. They provided rodeo livestock in Kansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Nebraska and Missouri. Jake was an order buyer. He had worked in the ring at livestock barns in St. Marys, Emmett, Marysville, Frankfort, Onaga and at both barns in Holton. He raised horses and cattle. Jake gathered cattle by horseback many years. He was a member of the Delia Presbyterian Church, and was a past member of the Fairmont Methodist Church. Jake was a member of the Eagles Lodge, I.O.O.F., SCA, URA and IRA; the Kansas Livestock Association and the Jackson County Livestock Association. A grandson gave him the nickname of Albert which stuck with him as many family members called him that. Jake loved his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Francis, Bill, Floyd (Karen) and Glen. He was also preceded in death by Mark Morgan whom he considered a son.

On March 1, 1947 he was united in marriage to Pearl McDonald at Geneva, NE, she survives of the home.

Other survivors include his son, Dale (Carolyn) Jacobsen, Circleville; his daughter, Bonita “Sis” (Wilbur Jr.) Stum, Topeka; four grandsons; 10 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Beverly, Jean and Pat Jacobsen; several nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, December 22, 2018 at the Holton Livestock Exchange Sale Barn, Holton, KS. Inurnment will be at a later date in Nebraska.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Friday, December 21, 2018 at Piper Funeral Home in St. Marys. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Cowboy Crisis Fund or the Potawatomi Tribe Rescue Squad and sent in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple Street, St. Marys, Kansas 66536. To read a full obituary or leave online condolences go to www.piperfuneralhome.com.

Donice M. (Adams) Barrett, 95, of Sabetha, KS passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 surrounded by family.

Donice was born September 8, 1923 near Centralia, KS the daughter of Henry and Minnie (Fisher) Adams. She attended one room schools in Nemaha County. Donice graduated from Centralia High School in 1941. Then she attended Emporia State Teacher College, and received her teaching certificate. She taught for 4 years.

Donice married Garwood Barrett in Hiawatha on October 2, 1945 and moved to a farm southwest of Sabetha, and resided there for 71 years. After 46 years of marriage he preceded her in death on December 21, 1991.

Her daughter Kathy and husband Jim cared for her the past 2 years to keep her close to family and home. Her hobbies included gardening and flowers, quilting, embroidery and reading. Her primary interests were in her family and particularly in the younger members.

Donice was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Garwood; 4 brothers; 3 sisters; and 3 grandchildren.

Survivors include one sister, Mary Linden of Seneca; 3 sister-in-law’s; her children, Sharon Gillitte, David (Ann) Barrett, Gayle Devore, Keith (Audree) Barrett, Steve (Mary Ann) Barrett, Kathy (Jim) Graney, and Gary Barrett, all of Sabetha, KS, and Jeff (Robin) Barrett of Franklin, TN; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and 2 great- great grandchildren, as well as nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, December 22, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. The family will greet friends from 9:30 a.m. to service time at the funeral home. Interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Woodlawn Baptist Church or Nemaha County Home Health & Hospice, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Elmer Lyman Gilbert was born May 28, 1921 to Edgar and Mary (Aylor) Gilbert. He passed away on December 18, 2018 at his home in Pawnee City.

Pete, as he was known by everyone, was born on the home place north of Table Rock, and spent his early years there. He attended the Miller School District 49 for eight years and then went to high school in Table Rock, where he graduated in 1940.

Pete went to Frye Aircraft School in Omaha, and then went to Dayton, Ohio where he worked in a defense plant at Wright-Patterson Field in 1942.

Pete and Dorothy Fellers where married June 12, 1942 in Covington, Kentucky and lived near Dayton, Ohio for the first few months of their marriage. They came back to Nebraska and he enlisted in the Army Air Corps in November of 1942. He spent 3 years in the service during World War II.

In 1946 they started farming north of Table Rock. They farmed for a total of 22 years at Table Rock, NE, Seneca, Summerfield, and Oketo, KS. Pete was always a farmer at heart. He loved the land and the livestock. After a devastating hail storm in 1967, they gave up farming and moved to Beatrice, NE. He held numerous jobs there including driving the Gage County ambulance and working for the Police Department.

After 5 years in Beatrice they moved to Lyons, Colorado where they bought a home in the mountains. Pete was employed at the North Boulder Recreation Center for several years, and then went to work for Storage Technology where he did outside maintenance. He was injured there and had surgery on both shoulders which limited his ability to work after that. He then worked at several restaurants until he retired and moved back to Pawnee City after spending 22 years in Colorado. He enjoyed helping his son-in-law on the farm, and cleared the snow from many businesses and individuals in Pawnee City as long as his health permitted. He had a heart attack and stroke in 2004 and had to give up all the things he enjoyed doing.

Pete was baptized and became a member of the Methodist Church in Table Rock in 1952. He and Dot joined the Methodist Church in Pawnee City in 1997. He was also a member of the American Legion in Pawnee City. At one time he belonged to the Legion, Eagles, and Elks Lodge in Beatrice, and the Moose Lodge in Longmont, CO.

Pete loved being around people and was a stranger to no one. When he was able he went to “coffee” at the Senior Center in the morning and in the afternoon to the Little Brown Jug. He never got tired of visiting with people. He also loved animals and working outdoors. He was truly a farmer forever.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents, brother George and wife Irma, brother Kenneth and wives Darlene Clark, Lucille Hendrix Clark, and Ida Farwell Kanel, brother Dwain, and infant great granddaughter Elizabeth Gilbert.

Those left to mourn his passing are his beloved wife of 76 years, Dorothy, and children June and husband Lyle Hess of Pawnee City, Allen Gilbert of Lincoln, and Lynn and wife Sharon Gilbert of Lafayette, CO, 9 grandchildren, Vicki Hess, Lori Linenberger, Kay and husband Jeff Parks, Lisa and husband Harlan Beethe, Sandra and husband Rob Montgomery, Barbara and husband Layne Fallon, Nancy Gilbert and fiancé Tim Hauck, Keith and wife Melanie Gilbert, Richard Gilbert and special friend Amy Schultz, 10 great-grandchildren, Julie Lockhorn and husband Eric, Stephanie Seacrest and fiancé Lenny Fleek, Sumner Gilbert, Tristin Gilbert, Trinity Gilbert, Alex Linenberger, Kyle Fenway Parks, Bryan Montgomery, Brent Beethe, Haley Beethe, and 3 great-great grandsons, Hunter Miller, A.J. Seacrest, and John Lockhorn, sister Dorothy Penkava of Table Rock and sister-in-law Delores Gilbert of Table Rock, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and a host of friends.  

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 22, 2018 at the United Methodist Church in Pawnee City, Nebraska with Rev. Sherry Sklenar officiating.  

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m. at the Wherry Mortuary in Pawnee City, Nebraska.

Interment will be at 3:30 p.m. in the Table Rock Cemetery, Table Rock, Nebraska with full military honors.

Memorials may go to the family's choice. 

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

Peggy Sue (Showalter) Snyder was born June 26, 1939 to Ralph and Johnnie Belle (Veazey) Showalter at Maryville, Missouri.  She was raised in Missouri and was one of 15 children.  Peggy loved helping her mother with the younger siblings and also enjoyed helping with the cooking, laundry and ironing. 

Throughout her youth, Peggy loved reading and sewing as well as spending time with her family and friends.  She maintained these relationships throughout her life, always attending family functions, as well as keeping up with her girlfriends through cards, phone calls and Round Robin letters with her high school girl friends.   Peggy graduated from Union Star High School in 1957 and then attended college at Northwest Missouri State.  While in college, Peggy met Robert on a blind date.  They were married on July 24, 1960. 

In their early years of marriage, they resided in Missouri where their three sons were born.  They later moved to Nebraska and had two daughters.  After various moves within Nebraska, they settled in the Firth area to raise their children.  In retirement, Peggy and Robert resided and farmed near Cortland and then Odell.  When her children were in school Peggy drove a bus for Norris Public Schools.  Most of her adult life, Peggy was a member of the Living Life Reformed Church where she taught Sunday School and God’s kids clubs for many years in Firth.  Peggy was a member of the Cortland Homemakers Extension Club.  She loved to bake and her specialties were fried chicken and cinnamon rolls.  Peggy was known to effortlessly prepare a huge meal for guests, whether expected or at the last minute and dessert was mandatory!  She loved to quilt and taught many others how to quilt and continued her love of reading throughout her lifetime.  Peggy had a way of letting family and friends always know that they were special to her and deeply loved. 

She passed away December 17, 2018 in Lincoln, Nebraska at the age of 79 years.

Peggy is survived by her husband of 58 years, Robert of Odell, children, sons, Lee Snyder, Ralph Snyder and Ryan Snyder, daughter, Barb Tegley, 14 grandchildren, Rachel, Jennifer, Ryan Lee, Savannah, Justin, Joanna, Tony, Stephanie, Tommy and Evan and 9 great-grandchildren, Nora, Madison, Ella, Paisley, Hailee, Elijah, Lyrik, Nathan and Andre, sisters, Nadine Hendrix, Mary Howes, Connie Renne, Deborah Showalter-Johnson, Donna Barratt and Cindy Showalter, brothers, Kirk Showalter and Terry Showalter and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Johnnie, sisters, Barbara Ann Showalter, Betty Langosch, Beverly Beeney and Darlene LaBorde and brothers, Ralph W. Showalter and Lynn Showalter.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018 at the Living Life Reformed Church, 603 Russell Street, Firth with Pastor Mark Starr officiating. 

Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m., with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2018 at the church.

Memorials may go to Friends of Sharp’s Grove or Living Life Reformed Church in care of Wherry Mortuary, Pawnee City. 

Interment will be at 3:00 p.m. Sat. in the Pawnee City Cemetery, Pawnee City, NE. 

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

Donald Anthony Smith (“Smitty”) 85 of Winchester & Valley Falls formerly of Atchison departed this on world on December 18, 2018 at F.W. Huston Senior Center, Winchester.

A Memorial Catholic Mass will be held on Saturday December 22nd, 2018 at St Joseph’s Catholic Church Atchison, Kansas at 1pm. Family and Friends will be received Friday night at the Elks Lodge from 7pm-9pm. In Honor of his wish’s inurnment will be at a later date.

He was born in Atchison, Kansas, the son of Anthony W Smith and Phoebe A Trout on December 16th, 1933. He attended Catholic schools in Atchison, KS. He Married Miriam “Joan” Noble on February 27th, 1953.

He was employed by the Pillsbury Company in Atchison for 36 years. He also had his own Electrical service business for over 25 years. He was a member of St Benedicts and St Joseph Catholic Parishes in Atchison.

He enjoyed life by participating in many outdoor activities Softball, Golf, Boating, Fishing, Hunting, Bowling, Horses, Motorcycles, Camping, and Traveling. He was a lifelong fan of the KC Chiefs, KC Royals, and KU Basketball.  He was also very active in many local organizations, Atchison Optimist Club, Bellevue County Club, Pineview Country Club, Miller’s National Federation, Atchison City Inspectors Licensing Division-Electrical.

Left to cherish his memory are his four children, Nancy Briefs Daniels (Ralph) of Nashua, NH, Norma Wilburn (Hoyt) of Atchison, KS, Tony Smith (Laurie Beffa) of Manhattan, KS, Joy Knowles (Tim)of Tecumseh, KS; and 16 Grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

Memorial Contributions in his name can be made to St Joseph’s Catholic Church Atchison, Atchison County Humane Society, or Jefferson County Humane Society.

Vivian Leona (McKee) Pfister, 92, passed away Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at Medicalodge Jackson County. She was born January 23, 1926 near Fairview, KS the daughter of Nick and Dorothy (Bindel) McKee.

Vivian graduated from Powhattan High School in 1944. She was a candidate at the Hiawatha Halloween pageant.

Vivian married Gale Pfister at Hiawatha, KS on December 29, 1944. They celebrated over 73 years of marriage.

She had worked at Mayfield’s Grocery Store in Powhattan, worked for USD #336 as a cook at Central School, was a custodian at Denison State Bank and provided child care to several families. She considered all the kids as family. Vivian was also a homemaker and housewife. She lived in the Holton community since 1954.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gale Pfister on September 25, 2018; her parents; brother, Louie V. McKee and sister, Valora McKee Schmidt.

Survivors include her daughter, Geralin Jo Altenburg (Wayne) of Holton, KS; grandson, Darin Altenburg (Kristi) of Holton, KS; granddaughter, Kimberly J. Clark (Terry) of Holton, KS4 great-grandchildren, Taygen & Logan Altenburg and Xoe and Xavier Clark; 3 step-grandchildren, Katie, Dacey and Ryon Clark; step-great-great-granddaughter, Natali; sister, Cora Smith of Arlington, WA; 2 brothers, Calvin McKee (Juanita) of Hiawatha, KS, Keith McKee (JoAnne) of Salina, KS; 2 sister-in-laws Donna Bairow of Holton, Nelle Pfister or Falls City, NE and numerous nieces and nephews.

Vivian’s grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchild were very special to her. Including Chad and Cole Gerhardt.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, December 22, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Family will greet friends an hour before service time. Family suggests casual and Christmas attire. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Heart of Jackson Humane Society or Holton Community Hospital Hospice c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Loretta Agnes (Gergen) Davis, 82, of Nebraska City, Nebraska passed away Monday, December 17, 2018 at The Monarch in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was born February 19, 1936 to William and Marie (Grote) Gergen on the family farm, rural Shickley, Nebraska.

Loretta was the youngest of ten children. Her father passed away when she was 7 years old and her mother raised her and her siblings on the family farm.  

She graduated from Geneva High School in 1952 at the age of 16. Loretta started college late in life, graduating from Peru State College in 1974 with B.S. in Education and receiving her Masters Degree in Education from the University of Nebraska in 1988.

On May 23, 1959 she married Roger Davis at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, rural Shickley, Nebraska. To this union three children were born; Carol Ann, John Charles and Joseph William.  Loretta and Roger lived their 43 years of marriage in Nebraska City.  Roger passed away on November 7, 2002.  Loretta was a member of St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Nebraska City. 

Loretta loved to play Bridge and Pinochle, crocheting, playing the piano, organ, singing and gardening.  In her younger years she enjoyed playing golf on a league in Nebraska City.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Marie, husband Roger, grandson, Bret Dahmke, sisters, Dorothy Steube and Theresa Reinsch and brothers, infant brother, Paul, Irvin, Father Charles, Jerome and Clement Gergen.

Loretta is survived by her children, Carol (Mitch) Dahmke of Louisville, KY, John Davis of Nebraska City, NE, Joe (Nancy) Davis of Pawnee City, NE, grandchildren, Ashley (Robert) Erwin of Louisville, KY, Chris (Jennifer) Dahmke of Louisville, KY, Jessica Dahmke ( wife of the late Bret Dahmke) of East Bernstadt, KY, Hannah Davis of Lincoln, NE, Andrew Davis of Lincoln, NE, great grandchildren, Jacob and Tyler Erwin of Louisville, KY, Noah Dahmke of East Bernstadt, KY, Sophia Dahmke of Louisville, KY, sisters, Sr. Marionita Gergen of Milwaukee, WI and Florence Dondlinger of Fairmont, NE, several nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Funeral Mass: 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 20, 2018 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Geneva, Nebraska with Father Harlan Waskowiak and Father Michael Gergen officiating.

Visitation: Wednesday, December 19, 2018 from 1:00-8:00 p.m. at Marshall Funeral Home 1109 1st Corso Nebraska City, Nebraska and also one hour before service at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Geneva.

Interment at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery (Turkey Creek) rural Shickley, Nebraska.

Memorials to V.I.P.s for Bret Dahmke Scholarship Fund, School Sisters of St. Francis in Milwaukee, The Monarch in Lincoln, Nebraska or Bishop’s Appeal for Vocation. Please direct memorials to Wherry Mortuary and state preference on check or envelope.

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

Mona M. Davidson, 84, of Hiawatha, died Sunday, December 16, 2018, at her home.

Mona was born March 20, 1934, at Dante, South Dakota, one of fourteen children born to Harvey ad Hazel Hallman Myers.  She moved with her family to the Gower, MO community where she grew up and attended school.  The family later moved to Dearborn, MO where she graduated from high school with the class of 1952.

Mona was an active bowler in a league for many years at Maple Lanes in Hiawatha.  To say she enjoyed her bingo was an understatement!  Mona enjoyed spending time with her family and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister.  

She married Richard Davidson Sr. April 17, 1955, at Camden Point Baptist Church in Platte County, MO.  He survives of the home.  They lived in the Kansas City area for a few years before moving to Hiawatha in 1969.  She began working for Abitibi Price wood shutter plant in Hiawatha for nearly 26 years before retiring.  

Also surviving are three sons:  Richard Jr. (Amanda) of Hiawatha, Robert (Nancy) of Mayetta, Sean of Hiawatha; a daughter Michelle Martindale (Roger) of Everest; four brothers:  Harvey Myers, Jr. of Oklahoma City, OK, Robert Myers (Delaine) of Tina, MO,  Mike Myers (Vicki) of St. Joseph, MO, Larry Myers, also of St. Joseph; three sisters:  Ellen Creager, also of Tina, Betty Tebow of St. Joseph, Bonnie Chavez, also of St. Joseph;  9 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren.

Mona was preceded in death by her parents; brothers:  Charles, Sheldon, Roger, Billy; sisters Ruth Myers and Sharon Melton.

A visitation/family reunion will be held in the spring of 2019 to celebrate and remember Mona’s life.

For those wishing to make a memorial contributions, may do so to the American Cancer Society, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434, who is assisting the family.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Funeral services will be 2:00 pm, Thursday,   December 20,  2018 at Becker Dyer Stanton Funeral Home with Reverend Carter officiating.  Family will receive friends from 6:00pm to 8:00pm on Wednesday December 19, 2018 at the funeral home.  Burial of cremated remains will be at a later date.  Memorials are to help defray funeral cost and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Beverly was born May 22, 1952 in Hutchison KS, the daughter of John and Betty Grisby Dale, (both preceded in death).  In 1969, Beverly moved to Atchison Kansas where Roland and Veryl Tyler, (both preceded in death), welcomed her into their home heart and family.  She worked at the Atchison Senior Village for 20 plus years, during that time she worked as a CNA, Restorative aid as well as assisting with patient activities.  Beverly’s compassion and loving heart was felt by everyone whom she came in contact with.

Beverly loved her community and was very activity, as a member of Second Christian Church where she faithfully served as an usher.  She was a member of the Sunday Supper Club as well as a foster parent, where among the many ways she was able to give back.  Beverly loved to help others as well as helping out whenever and wherever there was a need.  Beverly was also active for many years with the bowling league where she was teammate and friend, but most of all, Beverly loved her family and spending time with those she loved.  During the summers, she enjoyed having everyone with her camping.

Beverly married Herbert Thompson may 15, 1971, he preceded her in death.  Beverly married Dwight Downing May 12, 2006, he still survives.  Survivors include three daughters Ronald Vessar and Vernika Thompson of Cummings, KS, George and Dawn Goolsby of Kansas City MO, Tihesha Wallace of Conroe, TX, two sons Jared Thompson and Eryn Hassler of Manhattan, KS, and Calvin Thompson, six grandchildren and one great granddaughter.  Siblings include John and Mayday Dale Atchison, KS, Donna Kay Williams Wichita, KS, Roland and Patricia Tyler Jr., Atchison, KS, Cheryl and Adam Shaw Kansas City, MO, Marjorie Boldridge of Atchison KS, Sandra Dowdy of Kansas City, MO, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her brother's Thomas Lee Dale, Jimmy Tyler, and a sister Betty Jane Dale.

Amos Grant Goslin, 88, of Horton, KS passed away December 16, 2018 at his home. He was born September 7, 1930 in St. Joseph, MO the son of Lester “Dutch” and Nora Goslin.

Amos attended schools in Kansas and served in the United States Navy. He owned and operated Kickapoo Trucking and traveled across the country. He worked in the movie industry in New York City; he was first class auto mechanic and worked on residential maintenance and “Jack of All Trades” in Maui, HI.

Amos was a member of Holton Congregation of Jehovah’s Witness, Kickapoo Tribe of Kansas-serving as Tribal Chairman and was the oldest member at the time of his death.

He married Celia Kahbeah on October 7, 1970 in Hiawatha, KS. She survives of the home. Other survivors include 5 children, Michael Goslin (Doreen) of Maui, HI, Amy Osborne (Mike) of Yelm, WA, Ann Marie Goslin of Craig, CO, Tony Royal (Anna) of Lawrence, KS and Lea Ella Dudoit of Horton, KS; 23 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; sisters, Nona Allen of  Hemet, CA, Nancy Hue Sing (Ernest) of Maui, HI, Esther George of WA, Karen Greene (Don) of WA and Donna Cabral (Mark) of WA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dutch and Nora Goslin; sister, Paula Carpenter and brother, Buddy Goslin.

Funeral Service will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 22, 2018 at Kingdom Hall in Holton. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is assisting the family. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Barbara May Gaede 79, of Hiawatha, died unexpectedly Saturday evening, December 15, 2018, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.

Barbara was born in Troy, KS, October 17, 1939, one of seven children born to the late William and Dorothy Huber Brook and had lived in Hiawatha nearly all of her life. She grew up at Hiawatha where she attended school, later working to earn her GED.  She worked as seamstress at the Horton Garment Factory for several years.  She most importantly was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

Barb attended the First Christian Church in Hiawatha. She was dedicated a sponsor of the Brown County Humane Society.  Through the years, she enjoyed attending the monthly genealogy meetings in Hiawatha.

She married Bill Gaede. They worked together in housekeeping for a number of years at the Brown County Courthouse.  He died in 2002.  She was also preceded in death by her parents; step-children:  Bill Gaede, Jr., Debbie Helms; two sisters:  Wilma Fischer and Mary Ellen Schoonover, infant sister Patricia Brook; and grandson Joseph Douglas Kaufman.

Survivors include two sons: Kenny Kaufman (Mary), David Kaufman (Georgia), all of Hiawatha; two daughters:  Kim McQueen (Brian) of Hiawatha, Lyn Henry (Brian) of Shawnee, KS; step-son Terry Gaede of Johnson, NE; two brothers:  John Brook (Sandy) of Grain Valley, MO, Ben Brook (Deborah) of Colby, MO; sister Pauline Blanton of Hiawatha; 16 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-granddaughter.

Memorial services are planned for 11 a.m. Thursday, December 20, 2018, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha. Pastor Tom Stone will officiate.  Inurnment at a later date at the Hiawatha Cemetery.

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Brown County Humane Society, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

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

David M. Engelken, 59, passed away Saturday, December 15, 2018 at the Midland Hospice House in Topeka after a hard-fought battle with colon cancer.

David was born February 21, 1959, in Axtell, KS to Aloysius “Wishy” and Marjorie (Heideman) Engelken. He grew up in Seneca, KS attending St. Peter & Paul grade school and Nemaha Valley High School. As a young man, David worked at his parents’ grocery store on Main Street in Seneca. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed hosting large dances and bringing bands to perform at the Seneca Community Building. He later moved to Topeka, KS where he managed Food4Less & several Falley’s grocery stores.

David married Barbara Stallbaumer on May 2, 1981 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. The couple had two children and celebrated nearly 38 years of marriage.

After returning home to Seneca in 1993 to raise his family, David ran the buses for the Nemaha Valley School District for more than a decade earning numerous safety awards. He ran the Phillip 66 convenience store and gas station and served on the Seneca City Council for a number of years. David was also a longtime supporter of the Seneca American Legion baseball program where he enjoyed attending games and creating the printed schedule for many years.  

In 2012, David and Barb returned to Topeka where David was employed by Tank Management Services until the time of his death.

In his free time, David enjoyed attending concerts, working in his yard, watching KU sports & the Kansas City Royals. You could often find him sitting on his deck enjoying a good cigar, exploring the aisles of a well-organized grocery store, or playing with his granddaughters, Audra & Ryann Parks.

David was proceeded in death by his father, Aloysius “Wishy” Engelken on January 11, 2004. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; their children, Briena (Matthew) Parks and Dylan of Topeka; granddaughters, Audra & Ryann Parks of Topeka; his mother, Marjorie Engelken of Seneca; four brothers, Daryl “Joe” of Benton, Randy and Ron of Seneca and Dale “Odie” of Topeka; and a sister, Dana Emmert of Seneca.

Rosaries will be prayed on Wednesday, December 19th at 2 & 7 PM at the Lauer Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, December 20th  at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be given for the Sons of the American Legion or Midland Hospice House.
Lauer Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

Eugene William Kramer, 81, of the  Mooney Creek community of rural Winchester, died Sunday, December 16, 2018 at Midland Hospice Care in Topeka. He was born March 25, 1937 in Winchester, the son of William Adolph and Eulalia Rosella Shrick Kramer.  

As a lifelong resident of the area, he was a 1955 graduate of Winchester High School.  He was a farmer and stockman all his life and also worked as a welder.  He served many years in the Kansas National Guard, stationed in Atchison. He was a member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Mooney Creek and Knights of Columbus Council#132.  

He married Joan Ann Wagner on April 11, 1961 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Potter, she preceded him in death on May 21, 2014.

He is survived by four sons, Doug (Lisa) Kramer, Winchester, David Kramer, Manhattan, Curtis (Jenny) Kramer, Basehor, Kent (Brenda) Kramer, Valley Falls, three brothers, Jerry Kramer, Winchester, Wayne Kramer, Carbondale, Stephen Kramer, Winchester, four sisters, Verda Walters, Parkville, MO, Connie Speaks, Paola, Janice Firestone, Topeka, Deborah Borek, Broomfield, CO, and 10 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Angela Kramer, two brothers, Danny Kramer, Terrence Kramer and a sister, Mary Linda Malicke.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 AM, Thursday, December 20, 2018 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Mooney Creek. Burial will follow at Corpus Christi Cemetery.  A Parish Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM, Wednesday at Barnett Family Funeral Home, Oskaloosa. Visitation 6:30 to 8:00 PM, Wednesday at the Funeral Home.

Memorials suggested to Corpus Christi Catholic Cemetery fund or to Midland Hospice Care in care of Barnett Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602, Oskaloosa, KS, 66066.  www.barnettfamilyfh.com

Madison Eileen Taliaferro, 18, of Holton, KS passed away peacefully, with her many family members by her side on Saturday, December 15, 2018 at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in St. Louis, MO; after a courageous-long-fought battle with cystic fibrosis.

Madison was born September 16, 2000 in Olathe, KS the daughter of Michael D. and Desiree D. (Razak) Taliaferro.

Madison was a senior at Holton High School and had attended Washburn Rural High School from 9-10th grade. She was an active “high schooler”; as a member of Resist, SADD, JCYC, Unity Task Force, Notables and Vice-President of her senior class. She was also Holton High School football manager, a youth counselor for Tallgrass Christian Camp, a member of Central Church of Christ, and member of the youth group.

Survivors include her parents, Mike and Desiree Taliaferro and brother, Keegan Taliaferro all of the home; maternal grandparents, Galen and Shari Monaghan of Holton, KS, Virgil and Becky Razak of Wakarusa, KS; paternal grandparents, Don and Ruth Taliaferro of Topeka, KS; maternal great-grandmother, Sandy Studebaker; aunts and uncles, Brett and Allie Summers of Holton, KS, Jesse and Andrea Razak of Berryton, KS and Jason and Amber Taliaferro of Topeka, KS; 7 cousins, Olivia and Emma Summers, Caden and Harper Razak and Mira, Ava and Molly Taliaferro; beloved dogs, Sadie, Sophie, Chloe and Cooper; boyfriend, Ethan Teter; best-friends, friends, classmates and many doctors and nurses.

She was preceded in death by her donor, Alex Lott.

Madison’s family would be honored for anyone to attend her Celebration of Life that will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 21, 2018 at Holton High School. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation and viewing will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday evening at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Memorial may be given to the Benefit of Madison Taliaferro (to be designated to Madison’s school activities) c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. 

Donald K. Meyer, 69, of Sabetha, Kansas passed away Saturday, December 15, 2018.

Donald was born in Sabetha on December 6, 1949 to Fremond A. and Ruth E. (Strahm) Meyer.  He attended grade school at Excelsior and graduated from Sabetha High School in 1967.  Don attended Kansas State University, where he met Marianne Addeo Root.  They were united in marriage September 1, 1977, in Flush, Kansas.  She preceded him in death August 29, 2012.

He worked as an independent contractor and carpenter starting in Colorado in the 1970’s. Don moved to the Meyer home place in 1995 where he farmed, raising cattle and horses. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time with his family, and helping those in need. 

Donald was preceded in death by his father, Fremond; his son, Abraham Meyer; and brother, Lynn.

He is survived by his mother, Ruth Meyer of Sabetha; sister, Janet Meyer of Wichita; brother, Robert (Gayle) Meyer of Sabetha; stepson, Eric (Theresa) Root of Atchison; daughter-in-law, Sara Meyer-Pursley and Aaron Pursley of Lawrence; grandchildren, Owen Root, AnnaMaria Root, Kellen Meyer, Sophia Meyer, and Kayden Pursley.

Memorial services will be Friday, December 21, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha.  The family will greet friends one hour prior to service time.  

Dorothy E. Gress Dick, 93,  died on Thursday December 13, 2018 at Living Community of St. Joseph in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Dorothy was born on January 11, 1925 on a farm northeast of Seneca, the daughter of Aloysius and Lorena Tanking Gress.   The family lived on various farms near Baileyville and St. Bridget before settling on the Gress homestead in 1937.  She graduated from Sts. Peter & Paul High School in 1942.

On January 27th, 1948, she married Kenneth J. Dick at Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Seneca, KS.  They lived in Kansas City for a short time before moving to a farm near Horton, KS.  They moved back to Kansas City in 1954 and eventually moved to Smithville, MO where they lived for 34 years.

Dorothy was active in the community, serving in Altar Society and PTAs.  She was a Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader.  She volunteered for over 20 years at the hospital in Smithville. She made crocheted projects for family as well as for donations to various organizations. She created books of genealogy history for her families.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth in 2003; parents, Allie in 1985 and Lorena in 1997; and brothers, Leonard in 1959, Emmett in 1931, Charles in 2013, and Norbert in 2016.

She is survived by her children, Marlene (Bill Ebling) Dick of Newark, DE, Lois (Jim) Ussary of Platte City, MO, Carroll (Ruth) Dick of Wildwood, MO; 4 grandchildren, Matthew Ussary, Joshua Ussary, Laura Meinzen-Dick, Kevin Richardson; and three great-grandchildren.  She is also survived by her sisters Eleanor Heideman and Arlene Haverkamp both of Seneca, KS and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be from 1 to 3 PM and a Rosary will be prayed at 2 PM on Tuesday, December 18, 2018, at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11AM on Wednesday, December 19, 2018, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Burial will be in Sts. Peter & Paul Cemetery in Seneca.

Memorial contributions can be given for Project More and/or Bishop Sullivan Center, and sent in care of the family.

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

Mark Gerald Heideman, 64, of Corning, died on Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at his home.

Mark was born in Seneca on December 10, 1954, to Gerald and Alice Mahoney Heideman. He grew up near Corning and attended Corning Grade School and graduated from Centralia High School in 1973. After graduating from high school, he went to work for the Railroad. Mark later painted water towers and helped on the construction of CR Industries in Seneca. He returned to the family farm, to farm, where he remained until his death.

On August 11, 1993 he married Joni Davis. They were later divorced.

Mark had many enjoyments --fishing, gardening, his cattle, playing cards, coffee, butchering hogs and giving his grandkids tractor rides and skid loader rides to whomever. He dearly loved his family and grandkids.

Mark is survived by his children, Rachel (Andrew) Moffett of Warner Robins, Georgia, Dean Heideman of Burchard, Nebraska, Renee (Aaron) Boeschling of Waterville and Kim (Ryland) Critchfield of Barnes. His parents Jerry and Alice Heideman of Seneca, siblings; Ken (Mary) Heideman of Corning, Ron (Teresa) Heideman of Topeka, Keith (Lana) Heideman of Wamego, Gary (Phyllis) Heideman of Corning, Carol (Tim) Sack of Seneca, Deb (Keith) Hermesch of Seneca, Marcia (Bob) Johnson) of Maple Hill, Craig (Deb) Heideman of Topeka, Chris Heideman of Wichita, Dennis (Janet) Heideman of Baileyville; and eight grandchildren.

Rosaries are 2 and 7 PM on Sunday, December 16, 2018 at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. A funeral service will be held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning on Monday, December 17, 2018 at 10:30 AM.

Memorials are to the Mark Heideman Memorial to be designated at a later date.

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

Mary Elizabeth Hochuli, 91, passed away on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 at The Pines in Holton, Kansas.  She was born on November 14, 1927 in Frankfort Kansas to Minnis and Dorothy (Kaul) Riley.

The family moved to Holton where she spent the rest of her days living on Iowa Street.  She graduated from Holton High School and went on to attend Kansas State University where she was a member of Alpha Zi Delta sorority.  She married Sheldon Don Hochuli at the Presbyterian Church in Holton on February 22, 1948. Sheldon preceded her in death on November 8, 2017.  They were happily married for 69 years.  

Mary is survived by her daughter, Cindy (Mike) Vanek of Peoria, Illinois; her son, Sheldon (Martha) Hochuli of Topeka, Kansas; grandchildren, Jeff, Kristen, Elizabeth, Grace and Matthew; great-grandchildren Jackson, Paisley, Ivan and Siena; her sister, Dorothy Jean Atlakson of Atchison, Kansas and brother, Kenny Riley of Hiawatha, Kansas.

Mary worked as the secretary at her church, Evangel United Methodist (formerly the Evangelical United Brethren Church) for 13 years.  Following that, she was at the Denison State Bank for almost 14 years retiring in March 1984.  Mary enjoyed being involved in the community as a member of PEO Chapter P, Tourist Club and Beck-Bookman Club.  She was a talented seamstress and enjoyed knitting and cross stitch.

Mary and Sheldon loved to travel.  Many wonderful memories were made   wintering at their condo in Wimberly, Texas where they enjoyed golfing with friends and hosting family.  Her golfing experiences included 3 holes-in-one.  She was the matriarch of her family and loved having family gatherings at her home.  The family tradition of Christmas Day at Mary’s home went well into her early 80’s.  She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who will be dearly missed.

The family would like to express their thanks and appreciation to the staff at The Pines and Vintage Park for the tender love and care that Mary received while a resident.

Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 20, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., one hour prior to service time. Memorials may be given to the Beck-Bookman Library c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.
 
 
 

Mike Meyerkorth, 64, of Paxico, KS passed away December 12, 2018 at Manhattan, KS. He was born October 22, 1954 at Humboldt, NE to Laver and Lila (Vice) Meyerkorth. 

He married Rebecca Ganger on March 1, 1977 at Alliance, OH and they were later divorced.

Mike was raised in the rural Shubert area and graduated Peoples Bible College at Colorado Springs. He returned home to farm on the family farm and started his hay business. When married the couple established their home on a farm near Shubert. In 1984 they moved to Wamego, KS and he joined a roofing company and then joined the Wamego Police Force as a law enforcement officer, then sold insurance and did estate planning all while continuing the hay business and livestock work. He then became employed in the transport business in Alaska and North Dakota, he continued trucking in Kanas and then drove a taxi in Manhattan until the time of his death. He was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association and National Hay Association.

Mike is survived by his children, Lincoln and his wife Tracy of Wheaten, KS, Dorlan and his companion Casie Laumann of Westmoreland, KS, Heather Hurla and her husband Steve of Paxico, mother, Lila of Shubert, brother, Greg and his friend Mary Nelsen of Verdon, sisters, Pam Pickard and Judith Jeffrey of both of Verdon and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, December 18, 2018 at 10:30 AM at Mt. Zion Brick Church, east of Shubert with Pastor Tim Pearson officiating. Interment will be in Mt. Zion Brick Church Cemetery.

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

Jeffrey “Jeff” Ogden, 50, of Rulo, NE, passed away December 12, 2018 at Rulo. He was born October 8, 1968 at Falls City to Louis and Shirley (Nitzsche) Ogden.

He married Linda Petersen on July 4, 2007 at Lincoln, NE.

Jeff was raised at Rulo and graduated Falls City High School in 1986. After graduation he attended the Police Academy at Hutchinson, KS and then worked as an Iowa Tribal Officer. He then took employment at Wilde Tool in Hiawatha, KS and then Armstrong Cabinet Factory in Auburn, NE and finally at Van Tech Industries at Falls City. He was forced to retire due to his health in 2012. He was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Linda of Rulo, sons, Stephen and his fiancé Sydney Tisdel of Dawson, NE, Ty and his fiance Natasha Rowland of Falls City, Tomee Ogden of Rulo, two sisters, and grandchildren, Zachery, Kenzleigh, Carter and Megan. He was preceded in death by his parents and twin siblings in infancy.

His funeral will be held on Monday, December 17, 2018 at 3:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to service time at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. Cremation to follow with private inurnment at a later date at Rulo Cemetery.

Leslie "Chick" Hale "Wag Gesh G'Muk", 75, of Hiawatha, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 surrounded by his wife, children, and loving family at the Hiawatha Hospital.

He was born on July 11th, 1943 at home in Topeka, Kansas to Jessie William Hale and Alfredia Williams Hale.  Chick graduated from Whiting High School in Whiting, Kansas and went on to enlist in the United States Army with an honorable discharge in 1965.

Chick served as Tribal Chairman for the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, and was instrumental with Tribal programs and entities on State, Federal, and Local levels. He took pride in advocating in Native American Rights and Sovereignty Issues throughout Native America. His voice could be heard throughout the pow wow trail as he was Honorable MC throughout his life. Most notably could be heard on the microphone at the Golden Eagle Casino in Horton, Kansas until his retirement in May of 2015. He was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi and enrolled Kansas Kickapoo Tribe.

Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Bertha Mijessepe of the home; 3 daughters, Sherry Hale, Sabetha, Kansas, Corinna Hale-Ross( Joseph Ross, Sr.) Lawrence, Kansas, Voneen Hale and companion Anthony Juliano, Lawrence, Kansas; two sons, Jeremy Hale, Hiawatha, Kansas, and Solon Jessepe, Omaha, Nebraska. Two sisters, Marilyn Wakolee, Mayetta, Kansas, and Arnetta Hale, Topeka, Kansas. Fifteen grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Chick is proceeded in death by his parents, his twin brother, Weslie Hale, brother, Jessie "Bonce" Hale; Sylvia Hale Kahbeah, daughter, Geneva Jo Hale, and grandson Jorden Rylee Hale.

Drum services will be at 6:00 on Saturday evening, December 15, 2018 at Kickapoo Community building. Burial will be at 9:00 Sunday morning, December 16, 2018 at Kennekuk Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Les Baumgartner, 93, of Sabetha, Kansas formerly of Bern, Kansas passed away Thursday, December 13, 2018 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, December 15, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at the Bern Apostolic Christian Church. Visitation will be Friday, December 14, 2018 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha, and a Saturday visitation from 9:30 a.m. to service time at the church. Interment will be made in the Bern Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Apostolic Christian Home or the Nemaha County Training Center, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Elmer Henry Melcher, age 91, passed away December 12, 2018 at Crestview Nursing and Residential Living in Seneca, KS.

Elmer was born August 25th, 1927 in St. Benedict, Kansas on his family farmstead. Elmer was the son of Frank and Lena (Bergman) Melcher. He attended school at St. Benedict Catholic School.

Elmer married Arlene Helen (LaFond) Melcher, on October 15, 1958 at Saint Gregory’s Catholic Church in Marysville, KS. They lived on their farm south east of St. Benedict for nearly 33 years, before moving in 1985 to Seneca where they currently reside. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in Seneca, KS on October 15, 2018.
 
In 2018, Elmer was placed in Crestview Nursing and Residential Living in Seneca where he lived and received excellent care until shortly before his death.
 
Elmer was a farmer and a stockman, throughout his entirety. In 1953, at the age of 26, Elmer entered the U.S. Army for service in the Korean War. Elmer served in Okinawa, Japan where he was stationed and served as a CPL, until 1955 when he returned home. Elmer received many honors while in the military, including National Defence, United Nations, Korean Service, as well as the Good Conduct award.
 
After returning home, he returned to the family farm to continue farming. Throughout Elmer's life, he was an avid worker in which he had many jobs. Elmer worked at Seneca Furniture, a family owned business by Lucille and Joe Wichman, Elmer also worked at Lauer Funeral home, Chicago Rawhide (SKF), and was a bus driver for USD 451. Elmer also worked with Eldon (Corky) Stallbaumer, taking on numerous jobs as carpet layers. After retiring, Elmer worked with Russel Deters at Seneca Furniture.
 
In Elmer's free time, he was a lector/commentator, as well as sang in the choir, at St. Benedict Catholic Church, and Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church. He also called bingo for the Knights of Columbus and the Legion. His memberships include the Knights of Columbus, the fourth degree Ponce de Leon Assembly, and the American Legion Post #21, all in Seneca, KS.
 
Elmer was a family man. He created many memories with his grandchildren, and the fondest of them being taking his grandchildren fishing. Some of his favorite hobbies included farming, golfing, bowling, and coon hunting.  Elmer was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Lena Melcher, son Glenn Melcher, and brothers Vern, Francis Melcher, and sisters Melita Haverkamp, Evelyn Waters, Lucille Wichman.  

 
Elmer is survived by his wife – Arlene of the home. Four children Gary (Geriann) Melcher of Seneca, Ks, Donna (Boyd) Altenhofen of Seneca, KS, Karen (John) Smith of Marysville, KS, Randy Melcher of St. Joseph, MO. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren – Kim (Curt) Schultejans of Seneca, KS, Kirt (April) Henry of Seneca, KS, Michael (Debra) Altenhofen of Leawood, KS, Michelle (Ross) Harrington of Overland Park, KS, Kent (Hana) Henry of Columbus, IN, Renae (Russ) Fizgerald of Seneca, KS, Melissa Altenhofen (Fiance Andrew Hastings) of Chicago, IL, Kyle (Chelsea) Henry of Olathe, KS, Michaela Altenhofen of Wichita, KS, and Karla (Jake) Hermesch of Seneca, KS. He is also survived by 11 great-grandchildren - Callie, Eli of Seneca, KS, Landon, Grace of Seneca, KS, Benjamin, Eva, Wesley, of Leawood, KS, Jackson of Overland, KS, Kadance, Aidan, of Seneca, KS, Alma of Olathe, KS. He is also survived by his sister Lavonne Strathman of Juda, WI.
 
Rosaries will be prayed at 2 &  PM, Friday, December 14, 2018 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00AM, Saturday, December 15, 2018 at St. Benedict Catholic Church in St. Benedict, KS. Burial will be at the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery in Seneca, KS.  

Memorials are for Sts. Peter and Paul School sent in care of the family.

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

Mary (Carter) Means, 63, formerly of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 at her home in Big Lake, Missouri.

Mary was born on August 23, 1955 in Summersville, Missouri to William and Imogene (Krueger) Carter.  She was a devoted and supportive wife, mother, grandmother and friend.

Mary married Dan Means on December 17, 1982 in Mission, Kansas. He survives of the home.  She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Shirley, brothers; Bill, John Mark, mother-in-law, Joann Means.

Additional survivors include 2 daughters; Renee Grable (Craig) of Wathena, Kansas

                       Danielle Polachek (Steve) of St. Joseph, Missouri

Grandchildren; Carter Hundley, Delainie Hundley, Charlie Grable, Steven Polachek, Jr. and Charleigh Polachek.

Sisters; Trudy, Francis, Nancy, Carolyn and Bonnie.

Brother, Craig Carter

Father-in-law, John Means of St. Joseph, Missouri

Brother-in-law, Bob and Linda Means

Sister-in-law, Carol and Richard Mooreland

Numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial visitation:  the family will receive friends Saturday, December 15, 2018 from 1-3 pm at the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena, Kansas

Memorials: family requests memorials in lieu of flowers to either the 139th Airlift Wing Family Readiness Center or Mosaic Life Care Hospice.

There will be a family inurnment at a later date.

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Dennis J. ‘DJ’ Bales, 37, of Weston, MO, passed away Monday, December 10, 2018 at his home in Weston.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 AM, Saturday, December 15, 2018 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS. Burial will follow in the Doniphan (KS) Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 9:30 AM, Saturday, until the time of service at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Kansas Federation of Houndsmen – Youth Hunt and may be sent to the funeral home. Words of sympathy and remembrance may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com

DJ was born on September 21, 1981 in Atchison, the son of William D. and Monica Sue (Faught) Bales. DJ graduated from ACCHS in Effingham, KS. DJ worked in construction and owned his own fencing company, Premier Fencing Company in Muscotah. DJ enjoyed being outdoors and was an avid coon and deer hunter. He also enjoyed fishing, riding ATV’s, playing darts and watching Chiefs football. DJ especially loved spending time and cooking for his family at their family dinners.

DJ is survived by his father, Bill Bales of Muscotah; brother, Travis (Darcie) Bales of Soldier, KS; two nephews, Grant and Owen; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

DJ was preceded in death by his mother, Sue Bales in 2009.

Donald Earl Agnew, 64, of Atchison KS died on Monday, December 10, 2018 at the Atchison Hospital with his loving family by his side.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, Dec. 22nd, 2018 at St. Joseph Church with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB officiating. Friends are also invited to visit with the family from 2:00 to 3:00 pm on Saturday afternoon out at Esther’s Restaurant (at Pineview) following the services. Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society or the Atchison Humane Society and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who is handling the services. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Don was born on January 30, 1954 in Atchison, KS the son of William and Esther (Morris) Agnew. He graduated from Maur-Hill in 1972. He earned a BA degree in Business from Missouri-Western College. Don managed Terrace Hills Apartments for over 5 years for Yarco Properties. He attended St. Joseph Parish as a young man, enjoyed fishing, gardening, making jewelry, photography, stain glass, and metal working for hobbies. Don was a big Kansas City Chiefs and KU Basketball fan. He especially enjoyed his family and grandchildren.

He was married to the love of his life, Karen Wohrna on Oct. 6, 2006. Karen survives of the home. Additional survivors include three sons, Tim (Meagan) Agnew, Westcliff, CO, Steve Agnew, Denver, CO, and Zach (Anne) Agnew, Atchison, KS, a daughter, Carina Agnew, Atchison, KS, four brothers, Harold (Marilyn) Agnew, Lawrence, KS, Mike (Nancy) Agnew, of Pennsylvania, Fred Agnew, Atchison, KS, and Gerard (Nancy) Agnew, Leavenworth, KS, three sisters, Anna Cooke, and Theresa Dungans, both of Shawnee, KS, and Martha (Don) Huff, Atchison, KS, sister in law, Barbara Agnew, and six grandchildren. His parents, and two brothers, Richard and John Timothy Agnew preceded him in death.

JO MOCK PUGH
FORMERLY OF SABETHA
DIED SUNDAY DECEMBER 9TH
AT THE AGE  65

SERVICES
FOR JO MOCH PUGH
FORMERLY OF SABETHA
WILL BE TUESDAY DECEMBER 18TH
AT 2 PM
AT THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH IN SABETHA

FAMILY WILL GREET FRIENDS
FROM 1:00 UNTIL 2:00 PM
AT THE CHURCH

SURVIVORS OF JO MOCK PUGH INCLUDE: HER HUSBAND BILL PUGH, SON, SCOTT; MOTHER, VERNELLE MOCK, AND BROTHER GREG MOCK

Luther Anderson, 90, of Hiawatha died peacefully in his sleep Sunday morning, December 9, 2018 at the Maple Heights Nursing Home.

Luther was born in Robinson, KS, July 8, 1928 to Daniel and Anna Lieneman Anderson and was raised in the Robinson area.  He graduated from Robinson High School in 1946.  He married Betty Jane Stoffer September 11, 1949 at the Upper Wolf Lutheran Church, rural Robinson.  They farmed near Robinson until moving to Hiawatha in 1974.  She preceded him in death March 3, 1999.

They farmed for 10 years before Luther took a job with the Robinson Coop where he worked for 13 years.  He worked for John Deere in Hiawatha for 18 years and drove a school bus for USD 415 for 11 years.

Luther was a volunteer Fireman for Robinson and Hiawatha for a total of 41 years.  He also worked for Howard Auction Service for many years.
He was a member of the Upper Wolf Lutheran Church before transferring his membership to the Zion Lutheran Church in Hiawatha.

Luther enjoyed volunteering at the American Legion Baseball Field, woodworking, and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He also enjoyed supporting the Hiawatha High School athletes at almost every event he was able to attend.

He was preceded in death by a son; Dennis Neal Anderson in 1959, a sister and brother in childhood Janette and Arthur Anderson, two brothers; Donald and Oscar Anderson, and his two sons-in-law; Woody King and Paul Rockey.

Luther is survived by his two daughters; Connie King and Nancy Rockey both of Hiawatha, KS, three grandsons; Justin Yingling of Ogden, UT, Brady (Michelle) Rockey of Clemmons, North Carolina, and Bryan (Mandy) Rockey of Hiawatha, KS, five great-grandchildren; Alex, Ashton, Payton, Pauly, and Sydney Rockey.

Funeral Services are planned for 11 a.m., Thursday, December 13, 2018 at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.  Pastor Michael Dunaway will officiate.  Interment will follow at the Upper Wolf Lutheran Church Cemetery southeast of Robinson.

Friends may call the funeral home after 10 a.m. Wednesday.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to services on Thursday from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.  Memorials are suggested to the American Legion Baseball Team and may be sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home 124 S. 7th St., Hiawatha, KS  66434.

A special message or remembrance may be shared at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Maxine Louise Workman, of Humboldt passed away on Saturday, December 8, 2018 at the Pawnee County Memorial Hospital in Pawnee City, Nebraska having reached the age of 87 years, 9 months, and 1 day. 

Maxine is survived by her sons: Stuart Workman and his wife Ginger of Enterprise, KS; Doug Workman and his wife Kellie of Humboldt, NE; daughter Susan Eagan and husband Louis of Lexington, MO; granddaughters: Rachel Workman of Lincoln, NE; Haley Workman of Omaha, NE; Katelin Eagan of Rolla, MO; sisters-in-law Shirley Wiemers of Lincoln, NE; Jeanne Workman of St. James City, FL; brothers-in-law Russel (Judy) Workman of Lincoln, NE; Haney (Karen) Milstead of Lincoln, NE; many nieces and nephews who will miss their “Auntie Max”, and many relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 15, 2018, at the United Methodist Church in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Dorothy Smith officiating.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on December 14, 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 Humboldt United Methodist Church Fund or Pawnee County Memorial Hospital Foundation.

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-207 N. Nemaha ST.-Humboldt, NE 68376 (402) 862-2915  

Erma Brewer, age 95 of Auburn, passed away Saturday, December 8, 2018 at Good Samaritan Society in Auburn.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law Carol and Wes Pope of Sterling, NE; Dixie and Paul Enerson of Marshall, MN; Deanna and Chuck McKee of Red Oak, IA; son and daughter-in-law Tim and Susan Brewer of Humboldt, NE; son-in-law John Bebb of Altamont, KS; grandchildren Derek (Malia) Pope, Dennis (Joanna) Pope, Stacy (Zach) Watson, Nikki (Marlon) Enerson McPherson, Erik Enersen, Phillip (Susan) McKee, Julia (Scott) Goheen, Paula (Jay) Reyhons, John Jr. (Carla) Bebb, Justin (Jennifer) Bebb, Jana (Cody) Neer, Carly (Darian) Haynes; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters Luella Eitzmann and Velma Morton; many nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

A funeral service will be Wednesday, December 12, 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Auburn.  Burial will follow in Sheridan Cemetery near Auburn.  Visitation will be at the funeral home Tuesday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 6:00 to 8:00.

Memorials are suggested to Auburn Senior Center or Auburn Rescue Squad. 

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn. 
 

Andrew Leon “Andy” Bowser, 84, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away Friday, December 7, 2018.  Andrew was born February 7, 1934 in Holton, Kansas, the son of Andrew E. and Margaret A. Ernst Bowser. He married Shirley Jean Higgins on August 31, 1958, in Holton, Kansas.

Andy graduated from Holton High School in 1952 and completed barber school following graduation.  He was in the United States Navy, stationed at Hawaii from 1953-55. Andy was barbering primarily in Manhattan and some in Topeka.

Andy is survived by his daughter Catherine “Cathy” Marie (Eric) Cowger of Kansas City MO; brother, Allen (Sherry) Bowser of Holton; three grandsons Christopher “Chris” (Judy) Cowger of Liberty MO, Phillip “Mike” (Megan) Cowger of Parkville, and Ian Cowger of Gladstone, MO; four great granddaughters Madison, Claire, Avery, and Charlotte Cowger; two great step-grandsons Christopher Hale and Gerad Hale.

Andy was preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Margaret Bowser and his wife Shirley Bowser.

Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 15, 2018 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, Kansas with services immediately following. Burial will be in Holton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Betty Jean Buttron, 89, of Lancaster, KS passed away on Sat. Dec. 8th, 2018 at the Atchison Senior Village.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 pm on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Rev. Cynthia Schnaath, Pastor of the St. John’s Lutheran Church, officiating. Burial will follow in the Lancaster Cemetery, Lancaster, KS.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to services on Saturday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Betty Jean was born on June 30, 1929 in Topeka, KS the daughter of August and Carrie (Meyer) Thowe, of Alma KS. She graduated from Alma High School in 1947. Betty was married to Albert Buttron, of Lancaster on March 28, 1954.They were married over 61 years.  Albert preceded her in death. She was a member of the St. John’s Lutheran Church, Lancaster, KS. For many years she baked communion bread for the church and worked in the church office. Betty retired from the Atchison County District Court after 17 years as Probate Clerk. For years she enjoyed crocheting, knitting, reading, making jellies, pickles, baking breads and sharing cinnamon rolls to bereaved families. She was a volunteer for over 22 years for the Atchison Count Fair, judging 4-h sewing, and open class foods.

She is survived by a daughter, Nancy (Tom) Land, Burlingame, KS, and two sons, Steven and Eric Buttron, Lancaster, KS, two grandchildren, Avery (Jeff) Rush, and Thomas Hatch, granddaughter Sadie Jo. Betty loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and treasured when she could be with them. Betty Jean very much loved her friends and liked people in general.

Rosetta A. Thornton, 84, formerly of Troy, Kansas passed away Friday, December 7, 2018 at the Hickory Point Nursing home in Oskaloosa, Kansas.

Rosetta was born on June 5, 1934 in Moray, Kansas to Lyman W. & Elsie M. Browning.

She was preceded in death by her parents & a daughter, Patricia Thornton.

Survivors: son, James Thornton;

                 Sister, Helen Kibler;

                 Nephews, Henry Brassfield & Donald Graves;

                 Nieces, Shirley Butler, Alberta Spencer & Janet Schoenfelder.

Graveside service: 1:00 P.M. Tuesday at the Mount Olive Cemetery in Troy, Kansas.

There is no scheduled visitation.

Memorials: Rosetta Thornton Memorial Fund.

God celebrated Garrett Nathaniel Klahr’s arrival in Heaven on December 6, 2018, due to injuries suffered in a car accident. Garrett was born July 9, 2002 in Topeka, KS, the son of Darrek and Inga (Beitz) Klahr. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Netawaka, KS.

Garrett was 16 and a sophomore at Jackson Heights High School. He was at the top of his class scholastically, a talented saxophone player and a dedicated cross country and track athlete for the Cobras. He had attained the Life Rank in Boy Scouts and was working on his Eagle Rank.

Garrett loved the challenge of computer games, he had a contagious smile, a fun- loving quirky sense of humor and a kind spirit. He was also an organ donor.

Garrett was the son of Inga and the late Darrek Klahr; the brother of Trevor; the grandson of maternal grandparents, Jim and Barbara Beitz of Eureka, paternal grandparents, Barbara and Owen Jacobson of Hiawatha and the late Duane Klahr; nephew of Doug and Trish Klahr of Wetmore, Tracy Beitz and Melissa Barkus of Reece, Jason and Tara Beitz of Eureka and cousins, Christian Orness, Kendall and Kolby Beitz.

Half of the funds originally designated to Trevor and Garrett’s education fund collected from Garrett’s dad’s service, will be used to establish a memorial scholarship at Jackson Heights High School in Garrett’s memory.

Garrett’s wonderful spirit and life will be celebrated with a funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 12, 2018 at Jackson Heights High School. Burial will follow in the Netawaka Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton.  The family requests casual dress.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Immanuel Lutheran Church or to Garrett’s Eagle Project completion (nature trail signs around the Jackson Heights cross country course) 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.
 

Curtis Eugene Stirton, 59, of Muscotah, Kansas passed away during surgery on December 6, 2018 at the University of Kansas Health System-St. Francis Campus in Topeka, Kansas.

He was born on July 29, 1959 in Horton, Kansas the son of Harold and Bernice Daugherty Stirton.

Curtis worked in construction as a heavy equipment operator for years and was a farmer.

He was a member of the Muscotah United Church.

Survivors include his sole mate, Pam Green Stirton of the home, Muscotah, Kansas; a son, C.J. Stirton of the home, Muscotah, Kansas; his mother, Bernice Stirton of Muscotah, Kansas; two sisters, Beverely (Cecil) Jeffrey of Effingham, Kansas and Barbara (Fleet) Scoggins of Muscotah, Kansas; numerous nieces, nephews and his faithful companion Cassie dog.

The family will greet friends Friday evening from 6:30 to 7:30 P.M. at the mortuary. Memorial services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, December 15, 2018 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas.

Memorials may be made to the Curtis Stirton 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

William (Bill) M. Gleason, 93, of Seneca, KS passed away peacefully, of natural causes, on Thursday, December 6, 2018 at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca.

Bill was born on February 2,1925 in Goff, KS to William Gleason Sr and Sarah (Jones) Gleason, who both preceded him in death. Bill grew up in Goff community; attending and graduating from Goff High School.  As a young man, he helped his father at family car dealership.  

Bill was a veteran of World War II, at the age of 18 Bill joined the United States Navy. He served his country and attained the rank of Aviation Cadet V-5; he was discharged on June 30, 1947. Bill returned to Nemaha County and continued the Chevrolet car dealership, owning Gleason Chevrolet for over 40 years.  He was also a volunteer firefighter, and served on numerous community boards and organizations for many years.

Bill loved to hunt and fish, attend car races, build and fly remote control model airplanes, and sing and dance. In his later years, he endlessly drove around the streets of Seneca, visiting many places and friends. He may not have always known where he was going, but was always in a hurry to get there as well as in a hurry to leave.

On October 28, 1945 Bill married Evelyn (Goodman). They were married for 67 years before she passed. They had three children who survive, Sondra Rogers (husband Kent passed in 2017), Roger and Jolene (Davin) Gleason and Dennis and Betty (Jones) Gleason.

Preceding him in death were his brother, Mike and sisters, Faye Jean (Dean) and an infant sister, Dorothy Mae. Surviving siblings are Alvin and his wife Lilah and Steve and his wife Nancy.

He is also survived by grandchildren, Randall Rogers and his wife Cindy, Kirby Rogers and his wife Christina, Scott Gleason and his wife Amy, Eric Rogers, and Melinda (Gleason) Rocheleau and her husband Nathan; and nine great grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 10th from 2-3 PM at Lauer Funeral Home; a funeral service will be held at 3’oclock, also at the Funeral Home.  Military Honors will conclude the burial at the Seneca City Cemetery.

Memorials can be sent to American Legion Post #21 or Seneca Fire Department.

Lorraine Joe Richter, 86, and John D. Richter, 70, of Circleville, KS passed away at the Midland Hospice House in Topeka. Lorraine passed on Wednesday, December 5, 2018, and John on December 6, 2018.

She was born February 14, 1932 on the Potawatomi Reservation in Jackson County, the daughter of David Marion and Beulah (Cowger) Wykert. She graduated from Soldier High School in 1950 and was a lifelong member of the Circleville Community. Lorraine was a waitress and homemaker. She was also a CNA at the Holton Hospital, working for Dr. Roy, and the Merry Manor Nursing Home.

She was a member of the Circleville Christian Church. Lorraine was a devoted mother and grandmother, and enjoyed yard work, gardening, soap operas and the Royals.

She married Willis Shupe in 1950. They later divorced. They shared five children together, Danney, Patty, LeRoy, Alan and Avis.

Lorraine and John were married on November 16, 1975 in Bunker Hill, IN.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Alan Shupe, a daughter, Avis M. Rodney, and two sons-in-law, Greg Logan and Al Rodney.

John was born April 14, 1948 in Topeka, the son of Joe and Ada Mae Myers Richter. He attended Perry High School for three years before graduating from Holton High School in 1966.

He was a farmer and a stockman. He was a member of the Circleville Christian Church, a volunteer fireman with the Holton Fire Department, Jackson County Storm Spotters, and Circleville Masonic Lodge No. 20, AF&AM.  He loved hunting, old vehicles, and visiting with friends and neighbors.

His parents preceded him in death.

Survivors of John and Lorraine include children, Danney Shupe (DeeAnn) Topeka, Patty Logan, Holton, and LeRoy Shupe (Marla), Circleville; sisters, Linda G. Smalley (Robert), Spring City, TN, Marie Starkson (Dan), Holton, and Joyce Richter, Beatrice, NE; brothers, Henry Richter (Carol), Holton, and Wayne E. Richter, Topeka; Lorraine's aunt, Irene Cowger, Holton, nine grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, five great-great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral Services for John and Lorraine will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 10, 2018 at the Circleville Christian Church. Burial will follow in the Olive Hill Cemetery.  Family and friends will meet from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sunday at the church. Memorials are suggested to Midland Hospice House, Heart of Jackson Humane Society, Holton Fire Department, or the Circleville Christian Church and may be sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270 or Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, PO Box 1034, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com or chapeloaksfuneralhome.com.

Donald Schurman, 73, of Seneca found his eternal peace on Thursday, December 6, 2018, as a result of health issues that compounded from a 2004 stroke.

Don was born in Seneca on November 15, 1945 to Lawrence and Nora Wichman Schurman.  He attended Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic School; and graduated in 1963.  The early years of parochial school shaped the man he became, and strengthened his ties to his faith.  He was actively involved with marriage prep classes, he taught CCD classes, was an usher and was one of the original members of Sts. Peter & Paul’s Adoration.

On April 24, 1965 he married Shirley Heinen at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly.  The couple celebrated 53 years of marriage based on love, faith and hard work. As a young married couple, they lived and farmed near Kelly. They moved to Emmitt, Kansas, where Don sold Insurance for three years.  They moved back to Seneca, and Don farmed his family farm until he suffered a stroke.  In 1978, Don and Shirley started Sure Crop Fertilizer in Seneca; a business Don’s family continues to own and operate.  Don often lobbied in Washington, DC on behalf of Kansas farmers.  He was also a past Director of NFO.

Don was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, St. Joseph’s Society and the Knights of Columbus Council 1769. He enjoyed collecting antique tractors, toy tractors and visiting with fellow farmers throughout the United States.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Natalie and his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley of Seneca, children, Cory (Deanna) Schurman of Steamboat Island, Iowa, Monae (Doug) Schmelzle of Seneca and Shanon Schurman of Seneca; five grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, December 11th at 10 a.m. at the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church.  Rosaries will be prayed on Monday, December 10th at 2 & 7 PM at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.  Burial will be in St. Bede’s Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials are for Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church Stained Glass Window Fund, sent in care of the family.

Cletus Haverkamp, 94, of Corning peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on December 6, 2018 at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital, Seneca, KS.   

Cletus was born on September 22, 1924 on the family farm NW of Baileyville.  He was the son of Edward B. and Mary (Mae) Feldkamp Haverkamp.  He attended a country grade school, NW of Baileyville, District # 10 through the 8th grade.  He walked one mile to school.  He attended Baileyville High School, graduated in 1942.  He went to school three days each week and worked the farm the other two days as his father was ill.  After graduation, he continued farming the family farm until 1949.

On September 20, 1949 he married the love of his life, Ann Lierz, at Annunciation Church in Frankfort.  They celebrated many wonderful anniversaries and were blessed with 67 years of marriage.  They made their home and he farmed a 240-acre farm south of Corning for 48 years.  He also operated a dairy farm until 1977.  He began working for John Deere in St Mary’s in 1972 as a mechanic and truck driver until his retirement in 1988.  He then trucked for Lambert Heiman for several years.  In 1997, they built a new home and moved into Corning.  He then, at the age of 73, began a new career of grading roads for Red Vermillion and Reilly townships which he continued for 16 years, retiring from this job at age 90.  He also served on the Red Vermillion township board from 1969 until 1994.

His hobbies included gardening and woodworking.  In his spare time, he was a very talented woodworker and created many treasures for his children and grandchildren.  He also enjoyed donating these treasures to church functions and benefits.   He also enjoyed volunteering his time by mowing and other activities for St. Patrick’s parish for many years and was a member of the Corning Knights of Columbus, Post 13394.  He loved helping anyone who needed and always made himself available.  He was also a member of National Farmers Organization (NFO).  His greatest joy was spending time with his family.  He was a faithful husband and loving father.  He gave his time to his children and grandchildren giving them the gift of his strong faith in the Lord.  He was an amazing example of devotion to his loving wife, family and Christian faith.  He is survived by 24 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren and 60 great-grandchildren.  

Cletus was a member of St. Patrick’s Church where he and Ann prayed together an hour of adoration each week for many years.  

He is survived by eight children, who watched over and loved him dearly – Mary Ann (Harold) Brokamp, Dorothy (Harry) Taylor, Cleta and Sharon Haverkamp, Gary (Diane) Haverkamp all of Corning; Monica (Mike) Shaughnessy, and daughter-in-law Connie Haverkamp of Silver Lake; Vernon (Sue) Haverkamp of Goff and Galen Haverkamp of Topeka.   

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Haverkamp on February 5th, 2017; a son, Daniel on June 28, 2014; brothers, Kenneth and Vernus; and sister, Elda Stallbaumer.

Mass of a Christian burial will be offered at 10 AM on Monday, December 10th at St Patrick’s Church, Corning.  Rosary will be prated at 4 PM on Sunday, December 9th at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Memorial contribution will be given to Nemaha County Training Center and/or the newly established Corning Community Fund with the Nemaha County STEP Foundation.  

Lon “Lonnie” Harbour, 73, formerly of Humboldt, passed away on Thursday, December 6, 2018, at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Auburn, Nebraska.  He was born on November 2, 1945, in Omaha, Nebraska to Chester and Norma (Stettler) Harbour.  Lonnie was raised in Missouri and Texas before moving to Humboldt, Nebraska.  He lived in Humboldt with his mother and sister for many years before becoming a resident of Good Samaritan Society in Auburn.

Lonnie is survived by his sisters: Sarah Adams of Ft. Calhoun, NE; Sheryl Harbour of Auburn, NE; niece Connie Adams of Omaha, NE; nephew John M. Adams of Omaha, NE; and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law John G. Adams.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 10, 2018, at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Howard Blecha officiating. 

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 9, 2018, at The Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska.

Interment will be in the Four-Mile cemetery.

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

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-207 Nemaha ST.- Humboldt, NE 68376 (402) 862-2915

Stephen James McGinnis, 65 of Weston, MO died on Thursday, Dec. 6th, 2018 at St. Luke’s Hospice House, Kansas City, MO with his children by his side.

Funeral services will be 2:00 pm on Tuesday, Dec. 11th, 2018 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, with Rev. Robert Ziegler officiating. Burial will follow in the Sugar Creek Cemetery, Rushville, MO. The family will receive friends on Monday, Dec. 10th, 2018 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to help with funeral expenses and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Steve was born on Dec. 19, 1952 in Atchison, KS the son of Everett “Mick” and Margie (Smith) McGinnis. He graduated from Maur-Hill in 1971 and served in the U.S. Army until 1973. Steve worked with his father as an auto body repair man, and manager of the family business, Main Street Auto Parts, Atchison KS. He worked there for over 30 years. Steve enjoyed gardening, cooking, bowling, playing golf and especially spending time with this children and grandchildren.

He was married to Pamela Witte in 1971 and they later divorced. Survivors include his daughter, Stephanie (James) Filbert, Nortonville, KS, three sons, Brent (Kecia) McGinnis, Jeremy (Brandi) McGinnis, and Neil (Cheyenne) McGinnis all of Weston, MO, his mother, Margie McGinnis, Atchison, KS, siblings, Cathy Lowry, Shawnee, KS, Greg McGinnis, Pine, CO, Debbie Hundley, Atchison, Mary Jo VanDyke, Atchison, Lori Simmens, Jamestown, MO, Susie Arensberg, Grandview, MO, Peggy Olson, Atchison and Amy Berry, Olathe, KS, and nine grandchildren. His father preceded him in death.

Samuel Max Roush, 88, longtime resident of Morrill, KS, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 5, 2018, at the Apostolic Christian Home, Sabetha, KS. Sam will be forever remembered for his love of children, great sense of humor and his hard-work ethic.

Sam was born in Morrill, Kansas on February 27, 1930 to Charles and Ruth (Miller) Roush, one of seven children. He attended Morrill High School, graduating in 1948. Sam met his bride to be, Janice Ione Berkley, at the Sycamore Skating Rink. Sam and Janice were married on September 25, 1955, and have enjoyed a wonderful marriage.

Sam loved being a farmer and managing his farms, north of Morrill, KS. He had 80 head of cattle, raised hogs, and many crops. He enjoyed the comradery with other farmers in the area in downtown Morrill at the local coffee shop.

Sam leaves a Christian legacy of kindness, faithfulness and joy. Sam was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, who died at birth; brothers, Myrl, Marion and Vernon Roush, and Edgar and Garald Roush, who were raised with Sam and were like brothers to him.

His beloved wife, Janice, of 63 years, of Sabetha, KS, survives him. He leaves his son, Eldon Roush (Janet), granddaughter, Emma, all of Overland Park, KS; daughter, Jane Sunderland (Robert), grandson, Luke, granddaughter, Anna, and grandson, Isaac all of Sabetha, KS; daughter, Mary Kaye Howard (Scott), granddaughters, Christal, Makayla, Kate and Charli Kaye all of Topeka, KS; and twin sisters, Wanda Bonham of Olathe, KS, and Wilma Lehman of Nashville, TN.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 14, 2018 at the Popkess Funeral Home in Sabetha, KS, with Shane Spangler officiating. The family will greet guests before the service from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. The graveside services, for immediate family only, will follow the service, at the Morrill Cemetery. The family suggests a memorial, in lieu of flowers, to Kansas Foster and Adoptive Children Scholarship Fund. Memorials may be left at the funeral home or mailed to Popkess Funeral Home, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Samuel Max Roush, 88, longtime resident of Morrill, KS, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 5, 2018, at the Apostolic Christian Home, Sabetha, KS. Sam will be forever remembered for his love of children, great sense of humor and his hard-work ethic.

Sam was born in Morrill, Kansas on February 27, 1930 to Charles and Ruth (Miller) Roush, one of seven children. He attended Morrill High School, graduating in 1948. Sam met his bride to be, Janice Ione Berkley, at the Sycamore Skating Rink. Sam and Janice were married on September 25, 1955, and have enjoyed a wonderful marriage.

Sam loved being a farmer and managing his farms, north of Morrill, KS. He had 80 head of cattle, raised hogs, and many crops. He enjoyed the comradery with other farmers in the area in downtown Morrill at the local coffee shop.

Sam leaves a Christian legacy of kindness, faithfulness and joy. Sam was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, who died at birth; brothers, Myrl, Marion and Vernon Roush, and Edgar and Garald Roush, who were raised with Sam and were like brothers to him.

His beloved wife, Janice, of 63 years, of Sabetha, KS, survives him. He leaves his son, Eldon Roush (Janet), granddaughter, Emma, all of Overland Park, KS; daughter, Jane Sunderland (Robert), grandson, Luke, granddaughter, Anna, and grandson, Isaac all of Sabetha, KS; daughter, Mary Kaye Howard (Scott), granddaughters, Christal, Makayla, Kate and Charli Kaye all of Topeka, KS; and twin sisters, Wanda Bonham of Olathe, KS, and Wilma Lehman of Nashville, TN.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 14, 2018 at the Popkess Funeral Home in Sabetha, KS, with Shane Spangler officiating. The family will greet guests before the service from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. The graveside services, for immediate family only, will follow the service, at the Morrill Cemetery. The family suggests a memorial, in lieu of flowers, to Kansas Foster and Adoptive Children Scholarship Fund. Memorials may be left at the funeral home or mailed to Popkess Funeral Home, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Warren “Curly” Gatz arrived on this earth on March 27, 1926, and departed this earth on Dec. 5, 2018, in Hiawatha, Kan., at the age of 92.

The fourth child of Henry “Pete” and Frieda Gatz of rural Falls City, Neb., Warren was a farm kid and attended a Falls City country school commonly known as “Pig Hill,” leaving school to work on the family dairy farm. While showing pigs as a Richardson County 4-H member, Warren met Gertie Gerweck. The two were united in marriage on Feb. 19, 1947, and to this union were born three children: Rita, Roger and Teres(a).

A hard worker who had a passion for agriculture, Warren was one of the first artificial inseminators of dairy cattle in the state of Kansas. He and Frank Davis established Sunflower Proved Sire Service and the two AIed thousands of dairy and beef cows. Warren seldom took a day off, instilling a strong work ethic in his children.

In the 1960s, Warren joined American Breeders Service where he served as a District Sales Manager. He remained an ABS employee until his retirement.
In the 1960s, Warren and Gert purchased a farm just east of Hiawatha. This farm was the home to numerous sows and young pigs as well as beef cows. Warren had a tremendous eye for high-quality beef animals and earned a reputation for producing some powerful club calves. ABS also relied on Warren’s expertise to scout out bulls for its bull stud.

Even after retirement, Warren wasn’t a man to sit around. He kept busy raising beef cattle, removing thistles, driving grain trucks during harvest and other farm-related tasks. Gatz Stock Farm was in full gear for many years. Until shortly before he passed, Warren also enjoyed playing cards and being Grandpa and Great Grandpa to his grandkids and his “greats.”

Warren is survived by:

• Daughter Rita, son-in-law Bob Haley of Denver, Colo., and their daughter Brittany Haley of Parsons, Kan.

• Son Roger, daughter-in-law Peg and their children Taylor (Jennifer), Walker (Kyley) and Parker (Mallory), all of Hiawatha

• Daughter Teres Lambert and son-in-law John Krueger of Fort Collins, Colo., and Teres’ children Holly (Jason) Holland, Fort Collins, Colo., and Trey Lambert, Howard, Colo.

• Great grandchildren: Sloan & Skylar Holland; Jordan, Lauren & McKenna Gatz; Lily and Willow Gatz; and Rogan Gatz

He was preceded in death by his wife Gertie in 2015, parents Henry & Frieda Gatz, sisters Thelma and Marcille and brother Wes and a baby sister who died at birth.

A Parish Rosary will be recited at 2 p.m. Sunday, December 9, 2018 at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha with Family Visitation from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Warren and Gertie Gatz Scholarship Fund which may be sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S.7th St. Hiawatha, KS  66434.

The family offers special thanks to the staff at Maple Heights Nursing Home where Warren lived the past six-plus years and to the Hiawatha Community Hospital staff who provided care to him during his hospital stays in July-August and recently.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Clarence “Fuzz” Lewis passed away Wednesday,December 5, 2018 at the Hiawatha Hospital after a short stay.  

Clarence is survived by his wife Betty of the home, three children, Michelle Ann Lewis (Joe), Melissa Elayne Rodgers (Tim), and Michael Wayne Lewis (Kim), ten grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Clarence will be cremated. A private inurnment will be held at a later date. 

A Celebration of Life is planned for December 14, 2018 at the Highland Community Center from 4 to 7 p.m.

Norman L. Hrenchir, 92, of Wathena, Kansas passed away December 3, 2018 at the Highland Healthcare in Highland, Kansas.

Norman was born on January 9, 1926 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Victor & Beulah (Brown) Hrenchir.

He served in the U.S. Army as Sergeant for 2 years in Germany during the Korean Conflict. Then served in the Air National Guard for over 20 years, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. Norman was a mechanic, farmer and stockman. He also worked as a civil engineer for the state of Missouri for over 20 years. Norman enjoyed farming, nature, music, and spending time with family.

Norman married Nina Simpson on November 17, 1950. She survives of the home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Victor and Harold, and sisters Geneva and Mildred.

Additional survivors: sons, Jerry (Wanda) Hrenchir, Wathena, Kansas.

                                            Tim Hrenchir, Wathena, Kansas.

                                  Daughters, Karen Spicer, St. Joseph, Missouri

                                                    Linda (Dennis) Jennings, St. Joseph, Missouri

                                  Grandchildren, Amy Hoover, Jami Hrenchir, Tanner Hrenchir, Katie Lyle, Brianna Wardein, Luke Spicer and Kristen Jennings.

Great-grandchildren, Tristan, Kenny, Jake, Cruz, Greyson, Jackson and Jonesy.

Brother, Wilfred Hrenchir, Williams, Arizona

Sister, Mary Griffis, Corpus Christi, Texas.

Numerous nieces and nephews

Funeral Service: 2:00 P.M. Friday, December 7, 2018 at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home, in Wathena.

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

Burial: Memorial Park Cemetery, St. Joseph, Missouri

Memorials: Special Olympics Missouri North Area or the Alzheimer’s Association.

www.harmanrohde.com

Laura J. Theurer, 71, Atchison, Kansas died Tuesday, December 4, 2018 in Atchison, Kansas.

Memorial services will be Friday, December 7, 2018 at 3:00 P.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with Rev. Cassandra Quick officiating. Memorial contributions are suggested to Hope For Hemophilia and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Laura was born October 22, 1947 in Wichita Falls, Texas the daughter of Niles D. and Martha Jones Hasten. She attended schools in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Laura was a member of the Baptist faith. In her spare time she enjoyed watching old western movies and listening to country music.

Survivors include two sons, Darrell Johnson, Atchison, KS; Martin Hasten, Wichita Falls, TX; a daughter, Patricia Hambright, Atchison, KS; seven grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Hasten.

Doyle Dean Nauman, 59, Union, formerly of Mound City, Missouri, and Memphis, Tennessee, passed away Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018.

He was born April 21, 1959, in Mound City, to Duane and Martha Anne Nauman.

Doyle graduated from Holt County R-II High School in Mound City, and Northwest Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science.

He worked for Darling Ingredients for 24 years in International Marketing and Sales Management. He enjoyed international traveling, playing golf, and spending time with his family.

Doyle married Maree Howell on Nov. 19, 1988, she survives of the home.

Doyle was preceded in death by his mother.

Additional survivors include: two daughters, Rebecca Quinn (Ryan), Memphis, Victoria Liffrig (Thomas), Orlando, Florida; father, Duane L. Nauman, Mound City; brother, Duane A. Nauman (Linda), Mound City; sister, Gale Ball (Ralph), Fairfax, Missouri; and granddaughter, Lucy Quinn.

Farewell Services: 11 a.m. Thursday, Mound City United Methodist Church. Interment to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will receive friends 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Pettijohn & Crawford Family Funeral Service, Mound City.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Cancer Society or Mound City United Methodist Church.

Online guest book and obituary at www.pettijohncrawford.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.

Dan “Ke-so-kwah” McKinney, 80, of Soldier, KS, passed away Sunday, December 2, 2018 at his home, with family by his side. He was born September 12, 1938 on the Potawatomi Reservation, the son of Dan McKinney, Sr. and Ellen (Lewis) McKinney.

Dan was a firefighter for many years on the Prairie Band Potawatomi Reservation. He was a member of Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and Peyote Religion.

Dan married Ellen Fair in August of 1969 in Carnegie, OK. They celebrated over 49 years of marriage.

Survivors include his wife, Ellen, of the home; 5 sons, Troy McKinney (Amber) of Mayetta, KS, Sam McKinney (Rachel), Phillip McKinney, James McKinney and Dan McKinney, Jr. III (Virginia) all of Soldier, KS; 2 daughters, Mona McKinney (David) of Soldier, KS and Lola Wilson of Topeka, KS; 2 sisters, Betty Jo Hugar (Charles) of Apache, OK and Donna Poore (Tyrone) of Ponca City, OK; a brother, Danny Boy McKinney of Oklahoma; 29 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

 He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Jack McKinney; 4 sisters and 4 brothers.

 Family will greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 5, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Cremation will follow. Private family inurnment will be at a later date. Memorials may be given to the Dan McKinney Memorial Fund c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Caldyn David Wasinger, 1-month old son of Austin and Krista Wasinger of Sabetha, met the eyes of Jesus on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018. He was born on Oct. 28, 2018, in Sabetha.

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)

Caldyn gave his family — parents Austin and Krista, and siblings Bayley Marie, Myley Gracyn, Daxtyn Wesley and Ryker Thomas — a lifetime of love during his short time on Earth.

He is greeted in Heaven by his great-grandparents, G. Don and Harriet Wasinger and uncle, Taylor Lutgen. He is mourned on Earth by his grandparents, Dave and Karen Wasinger, Tom Lutgen and Sheila Lutgen; great-grandparents, Herb and Olive McReynolds, Leon and Joan Lutgen and Kenneth and Mary Bader; uncles, aunts and cousins, Jared Lutgen, Katelyn (Paul) Arterburn, Leo and Silas, and Lynae (Lee) Freeman and Elsie.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018, at NorthRidge Church in Sabetha. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. A private family burial will be held in the Sabetha Cemetery immediately following the service. Memorial contributions may be sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, KS 66534, to be designated at a later date. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Robert G. Krier, Sr., 54, Atchison, Kansas passed away Saturday, December 1, 2018 at Mosaic Life Care Hospital, St. Joseph, Missouri.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, December 5, 2018 at 10:30 A.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with Rev. Jeremy Heppler, OSB officiating. A parish rosary will be recited on Tuesday, December 4th at 6:30 P.M. at the funeral home with visitation with the family to follow until 8:00 P.M. Memorial contributions are suggested to Salvation Army and may be left in care
of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com .

Robert was born September 20, 1964 in Atchison, Kansas the son of Robert M. and Ruth Abbott Krier. He attended elementary school in Effingham, Kansas and attended Atchison County Community High School.
He and Martha C. Miller were united in marriage in Atchison, Kansas. They later divorced.

Robert was a member of St. Benedict Parish. He was also a longtime volunteer at the AtchisonSalvation Army. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing, camping and especially enjoyed the time he could spend with his grandchildren.
Survivors include two daughters, Melissa Swenson, Atchison, KS; Ruth Krier, Dallas, TX; a brother, Brian Krier, Atchison, KS; and three grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son Robert G. Krier, Jr., and his parents, Robert and Ruth Krier.

Larry Gayle Cummins, 82, of rural Humboldt, Nebraska was born on February 2, 1936, in Dawson, Nebraska to Lockwood Glen and Gertrude (Porter) Cummins.  He was raised in Dawson and attended school there.  Larry graduated from Dawson High School ith the class of 1954.  Following graduation, Larry worked for Boring Transfer in Dawson and Burlington Northern Railroad in Lincoln in the rail car repair shop.  On June 15, 1958, Larry was united in marriage to Hazel Luginbill at the Four-Mile United Church of Christ in rural Humboldt.  The couple had three children Nick, Holley and Christopher, they also raised several foster children together.  Larry served his country in the United States Army from October of 1958, until he was honorably discharged in November of 1961.  He returned home and continued farming until he and Hazel started Countryside Upholstery.  Larry upholstered many different things from furniture, horse drawn buggies, and car and truck interiors.  He had many of his car and truck interiors featured in several car magazines.  In his spare time, Larry did Fretwork, shich was juried and sold at the IMAX theatre gift shop in Hastings, Nebraska and in the Nebraska Gift Catalogue.  He served on the Humboldt School Board, Humboldt Hosptial Board, and Friedens United Church of Christ Board.  Larry was a member of the Quad County Museum, Humboldt Chamber of Commerce, and belonged to the Nebraska Coun ty Assistance Team and the Southeast Nebraska ARC.  He donated time to help with the Nemaha County Kansas Food Pantry and Harvesters Food distribution in Seneca, Kansas.  Larry played intramural softball in Lincoln and for Friedens UCC teams.  He loved hunting, fishing, playing cards, steaks and coconut cream pie.

Larry passed away on Tuesday, November 27, 2018, at the Community Medical Cneter in Falls City, Nebraska having reaced the age of 82 years, 9 months, and 25 days.  He was preceded in death by his parents, children Holley Marie and Christopher William, sisters-in-law Imogene Cummins, Elizabeth Da Silva and brother-in-law Erasmo Da Silva.

Larry is survived by his loving wife Hazel of rural Humboldt, son Nick Cummins of Kenesaw, NE; several Foster Children, brothers: William Cummins of Fairbury, NE; Ronald (Sandy) Cummins of Lincoln, NE; sister-in-law Frances (Gordon) Warner of Eden Prairie, MN; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Memorial Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 7, 2018, at Friedens United Church of Christ in rural Bern, Kansas with Rev. Jacqueline Lamensky officiating.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday, December 6, 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 Four-Mile Cemetery in rural Humboldt, Nebraska at a later date.

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

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

Arrangements entrusted to Wherry Mortuary- 207 N. Nemaha ST- Humboldt, Nebraska 68376 (402) 862-2915

Glenda Irene Thacker, 66, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, November 25, 2018, at her home in Topeka, Kansas.

She peacefully passed away with her daughter, Amanda at her side, after many years of stubbornness and only a few weeks knowing cancer had taken over her body.

She was born on June 3, 1952, in Horton, Kansas, the daughter of Glenn and Helen (Bell) Weidman. After graduation from Powhattan high school, she attended Platt College of Commerce in St. Joseph, Missouri where she received a Diploma in the Personal Secretarial Course.

She married James (Jim) Thacker in 1972, they later divorced in 2001. They continued a life of friendship that many did not understand but admired-spending holidays, family birthdays, and special events together with their children and grandchildren. Glenda enjoyed working in food service, she especially liked her positions that gave her authority to run the show, which she did very well. She most recently worked at The Shack in Topeka. Anyone who knew her would not be surprised to know she worked up until she was no longer physically able.

She was formally a member of Bethany United Church Of Christ, where she continued to associate herself with, and would attend as often as she could before moving to Topeka. When she wasn’t working you could find her enjoying a NBA game, particularly Miami Heat, in person or at home with her daughter, Amanda cheering for LeBron’s team next to her. She also enjoyed attending as many Kenny Rogers concerts as she could. When Halloween came around you could find her dressed up in whatever crazy costume her daughter, Natasha came up with. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with ‘her girls’; Natasha, Amanda, and Tesia.

Survivors include two daughters, Natasha (Justin) Gladden of Agency, Missouri, and Amanda Thacker of Topeka, Kansas; two sisters, Beverly Albertson (Wayne) of Robinson, Kansas, and Delores Lochmiller (Len) of San Diego, California, two grandchildren, Tesia Thacker of Kansas City, Missouri, and Logan Gladden of Agency, Missouri, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her ex husband, Jim Thacker, her parents, Glenn & Helen Weidman, infant son, James Matthew Thacker, and a brother, Georgie Weidman.

Memorial services are planned for Saturday, December 8, 2018, at 1pm with visitation to follow until 3pm at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. Memorials may be made to the Glenda Thacker memorial fund and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com