Nancy Irene Christie, 75, of Effingham, KS, passed away Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at the Medicalodge of Atchison, KS.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 AM, Friday, May 3, 2019 at the Becker Chapel in Effingham, KS. Burial will follow in the Old Huron Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, Thursday, at the Becker Chapel in Effingham. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Effingham Fire Department. Words of sympathy and remembrance may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Nancy was born on May 2, 1943 in Horton, KS, the daughter of Robert Floyd and Zelda May (Rickell) Kelley. Nancy graduated from Atchison County Community High School in Effingham and had attended nurses training in Kansas City. Nancy later worked in Horton at Pat’s Thriftway in the meat department for over 15 years. Nancy enjoyed tending her rose garden; bowling, having bowled at local, state, and national levels; and she enjoyed traveling with a lifelong friend from high school. Nancy especially loved spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Nancy and Robert ‘Bob’ Christie were married on December 7, 1962 in Effingham. Bob preceded her in death on March 24, 2013. Together they celebrated 50 years of marriage. Nancy was also preceded in death by a grandson, Jacob Christie.

Survivors include two sons, David (Rhonda) Christie and Dean (Leslie) Christie, both of Effingham; brother, Harry Kelley, Jacksonville, FL; six grandchildren, Lacey Christie, Cody Bennett, Kaylee Bennett, Kori Bennett, Amy Russell and Gabrielle Schuetz; four great grandchildren. Katie Russell, William Russell, Brooks Russell, and Brecken Bennett.

Alice M. Patterson, of Holton,  passed away in her home, 2 days after her April 28, 2019 birthday, with loving family around her, complications from Lymphoma.

The oldest of 3 children born to H.C. & Martha Poos at Lancaster, Ks. She attended grade school in Lancaster.

Alice received her teaching certificate, called “Normal Training” her Senior year of high school, thus becoming a teacher. She also received her school letter “A” in band playing the clarinet.

After graduating from Atchison County Community High School in Effingham, Ks, she taught at a 1 room school at South Creek in Atchison County and at Walnut Creek in Jackson County.  Teaching 12 students in 8 grades in a 1 room school house.

She met the love of her life her freshman year in high school, Joe W. Patterson. They married on December 25, 1942, they celebrated 70 years together. They lived in the Whiting community then moved to Netawaka, farming for over 60 years. They moved to Holton after retirement in 1999.

Her greatest pleasures in her life was her family, joys of gardening, flowers, cooking/canning, sewing, especially quilt tops, and farming. She enjoyed sharing her knowledge with family and her family members each receiving at least 1 hand made quilt from her, many as wedding gifts, and all of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren received a baby quilt. A great cook, her pies and homemade bread were always a wonderful treat! Cooking 3 meals every day, always from the farm or garden fresh. The summer busy time included hired hands to feed as well. To share home-made gifts was a treat for her, and she loved to share her knowledge to those interested.

She helped care for several family members, believing in the natural way of healing when possible. Her father being a veterinarian she knew a lot of both people and animal needs.

She and Joe did most home repairs and purchasing a few houses for rentals, doing what needed to be done, no matter if it was carpentry, wall papering, painting, plumbing or concrete work she knew how. She and Joe worked side by side repairing, fixing, or farming.

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, and 4 Seasons Garden Club. She helped with 4-H not only as director, but for many years helped with the open class flowers. She inherited her mother and grandmother’s love of flowers. At the age of 80 she purchased a computer. Having never had taken typing in school, she learned how to use it and was amazed at the modern technology; and enjoyed keeping in touch with family and friends from other states. A great invention from the 1 room school house.

To this union 5 children were born. She is survived by: Nancy Bower (Don), Linda Wenger, Steve Patterson (Donna) and Sherry Burns (Rick). 14 grandchildren, Tammy Caffrey (Mark), Donna Lehman (Daniel), Marsene Feldt (Nate), Charlene Moran (Richard), Scott Fund, Joe Fund (Andrea), Jennifer Dennon (David), Jannelle Welliver (Rick), Katie Ingels (Kyle), Casey Patterson (Kisha), Lyndee Stabel (Taylor), Annie Shanholtzer (Abe), Dean Burns (Ashley), Robyn Jones (Jason); 32 great-grandchildren (1 more this year), Shannon Caffrey, Emily Lehman, Megan Lehman, Maverick Feldt, Atticus Feldt, Allyson Shugart (Aaron), Trent Moran, Grace Moran, Blake Fund, Ethan Fund, Cody Fund, Ashten Jackson (Josh), Colton Fund, Samantha Dennon, Josh Wenger (Alysha), Jessica Swart (Isaac), Bryce Denton, Taylor Welliver, Kolden Ingels, Kallan Ingels, Rowan Patterson, Dawson Patterson, Lakin Patterson, Taylee Stabel, Tia Stabel, Afton Shanholtzer, Reece Burns, Addyson Schumaker, Comyn Schumaker, Corey Jones, Dalton Jones, Devon Jones and 4 great-great-grandchildren (2 more due this year), Easton Shughart, Ava Jackson, Liam Jackson and Norah Wenger. She has 1 sister, Cara Triplett.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joe Patterson on August 4, 2013; daughter, Marsha Abarr on June 27, 2016; grandson, William Fund on October 10, 1963 and brother, Alan Poos on November 27, 2012.

Funeral Service will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, May 5, 2019 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 4:30 – 7:00 p.m. Saturday evening at the funeral home.  Memorials may be given to the Beck-Bookman Library, First United Methodist Church 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.

Mary Ann Schrick, 92, of Nortonville, KS, passed away Monday, April 29, 2019 at the Village Villa Nursing Home, Nortonville, KS.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM, Saturday, May 4, 2019 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church with Fr. Jeremy Heppler as Celebrant.  Burial will follow at St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery.  A Parish Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM, Friday, May 3, 2019 at the church with visitation following until 8:00 PM.  Memorials are suggested to Atchison County Rural Fire District #2 or Atchison County EMS 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 Ann was born April 17, 1927 in Atchison, KS, the daughter of Charles and Josephine “Dolly” (Fuhrman) Hiebsch.  She attended Mount Saint Scholastica.  Mary Ann worked for Horton Garment Factory for a couple of years before becoming a housewife and homemaker.  She and Herman also had a dairy farm in Effingham, KS.   She grew up in the St. Louis Good Intent parish and then became a member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church where she served on the Altar Society.  Mary Ann founded the Sunflower 4-H Club and was a member of the Busy Bee Club, Bunco Club in Effingham, KS, and enjoyed bingo, gambling and spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Mary Ann married Herman Schrick on November 15, 1944 at the St.Louis Catholic Church in Good Intent.  He preceded her in death in 1993.  Survivors include two daughters, Judy Cody (RJ Corneilson) Topeka, KS, Nancy Marlatt, Effingham, KS, a sister Dorothy Craig, Wellington, KS, two grandchildren, Christina Hunt (Timmy Atkins), Tracy (Dennis) Redding, three great grandchildren, Cody (Ashley) Hunt, Macon (Shane) Paulo, Morgan (Eric) Vincent, two great great grandchildren, Arina Jo Vincent, Emberlynn May Hunt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son Jim Schrick, a sister, Margaret Hiebsch.

Jeannette Ann Wahwahsuck "Nee-bom-a-quah", 72, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Monday, April 29, 2019 at the Atchison Community Hospital.

She was born on September 2, 1946 in Lawrence, Kansas the daughter of Roscoe and Ida Browning Wahwahsuck. Jeannette graduated from Haskell University. 

She worked as a computer software engineer for NASA for years until she retired. Jeannette was a member and treasurer for the Lawrence Golf Course, she loved playing golf and spending time with her family.

Survivors include a brother, Duwayne Wahwahsuck of Horton, Kansas and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Michael Wahwahsuck Sr., nephew, Silas Vigil and great niece, Cheyenne Wahwahsuck.

Kennekuk services will be held at 6:00 P.M. on Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at the Kickapoo Community Building on the Kickapoo Reservation. Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday morning at the Kennekuk Cemetery. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Della Marie Hartley, 91, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on April 29, 2019 at the Medicalodges of Jackson  County in Holton, Kansas.

She was born on June 15, 1927 in Goff, Kansas the daughter of Thomas and Alice Thompson Coffman. Della was a homemaker. On July 29, 1944 she married Clifford Hartley in Hiawatha, Kansas. They later were divorced.

Survivors include, 4 sons, Steven Hartley of Austin, Texas, William Hartley of Valley Falls, Kansas, Ricky Hartley of Quenemo, Kansas and David Hartley of Willis, Kansas; a daughter, Gail Statler of Horton, Kansas; brother, Cleo Coffman of Horton, Kansas; 2 sisters, Joyce Olberding of Seneca, Kansas and Jean Rae Thornton of Wamego, Kansas; 14 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers, Johnny Coffman, Cecil Coffman and 2 sisters, Mary Coffman and Alberta Grauer.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, May 3, 2019 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas where the family will greet friends on Thursday evening from 6:30 to 7:30 P.M.. Burial will be at the Horton Cemetery. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Carol Jean Hopkins, 65, of Highland, KS died unexpectedly Sunday evening at the Hiawatha Community Hospital.

She was born April 7, 1954 in Wathena, KS to Rex and Betty Jean Hinson Wheeler. Carol grew up in Wathena, KS and attended Wathena Grade School until moving to Denton, KS in 1967. She graduated from Midway High School with the Class of 1972.

Carol married her high school sweetheart and dancing partner for life, Roger Hopkins, August 25, 1973 in the Denton United Methodist Church. Carol was a mother first to her beloved sons, Bob and Bill. She was a homemaker, and worked at various businesses throughout the years in Highland and surrounding areas. Some of these businesses include Tim Miller Implement, Todd Drugs, City of Highland, and Carol’s Hallmark in Hiawatha.

Carol enjoyed antiques, crocheting, knitting, oldie’s music, and old quilts. She and Roger also enjoyed driving through the countryside looking at cattle in the pastures, looking at the pretty country fields, and enjoying the landscape.

She is survived by Roger of the home, two sons; Bob (Sharon) Hopkins of Springfield, VA and Bill Hopkins of White Cloud, KS, grandsons; Samual and Benjamin Hopkins of Springfield, VA, sister; Mabel Ann (Gary) Laipple of Wathena, KS, and three nephews; Matthew, Brett, and Wyatt Laipple.

Carol was preceded in death by her baby dogs; Patty and Toby.

Graveside Services are planned for 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 3, 2019 at the Highland Cemetery. Angie Cluck will officiate.

Friends may call the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland after 10 a.m., Thursday where the family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. that evening. Memorials are suggested to the Brown County Humane Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home, P.O. Box 33, Highland, KS 66035. Online condolences may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Kenneth Michael Heideman, 66, of Corning, died on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at Shawnee Mission Medical Center in Overland Park, KS of an extended illness.

Ken was born September 13, 1952, the oldest of eleven children to Alice and the late Gerald Heideman.

He spent his childhood on the family farm working beside his beloved father and brothers. After graduating from Centralia High School in 1970, he moved to Topeka working construction. In 1972, he married Cindy Thoman, and to this union was born his daughter, Jennifer Jo. They later divorced. That same year, Ken received notification to report to active duty in the US Army. Ken spent the next three years in Germany working on post in the commissary, while training as a radio operator. He separated from service in November 1975 but continued in active reserve until he was honorably discharged on October 30th, 1978.

Upon his return from service, Ken began working for the Watertower Paint & Repair Company. In 1979, he suffered a near fatal fall inside of a tower leaving him on permanent disability. Ken’s work ethic and his determination were his best assets. Although disabled, he spent the remainder of his life volunteering for just about anything he could find to keep busy.

On October 17th, 1987, he married Mary Hiltibrand in Topeka. They had a son, Mitchell Evan in 1991. In 1996 they moved back to Corning where he found his livelihood. He spent the next 10+ years as President of the Corning Ball Association and coached his son’s baseball teams.

Ken loved helping anyone around the farm spending most of his time with his brother, Mark, and their uncle, Ben. He also enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and socializing with his many, many friends and family. During the long winters, Ken kept busy in the kitchen and was well know for his many specialty dishes.

Ken is survived by his wife Mary and his son Mitchell of the home, and his daughter Jennifer (Michael) of Chandler, AZ. Also surviving is his mother Alice Heideman of Seneca and siblings; Ron (Teresa) Heideman of Overland Park, 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, and Dennis (Janet) Heideman of Baileyville. Other survivors are his three granddaughters; Jenna, Ryleigh, and MaKenna.

Rosaries are at 2:00pm and 7:00pm on Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at the Lauer Funeral home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at 10:30am. Burial will be in the St. Patrick’s Cemetery.

Memorials will be designated to the Corning Museum, the Corning Ball Association, and the American Legion Post 37.

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

Ella Mae Romine, 90, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 28, 2019 at Falls City. She was born August 2, 1928 at Morrill, KS to Byron and Vera (Benfer) Boyer. 

She married Carl Romine on June 15, 1947 at Hiawatha, KS. He passed away November 26, 2015.

Ella Mae was raised in the Hiawatha area and graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1947. When married she was a homemaker and bookkeeper for her husband’s auto body repair business. She was active in Boy Scouts, her church and the Falls City Volunteer Ambulance Squad. She also worked as a flower arranger for the Flower Cart. She was a member of First Christian Church and the Humane Society both of Falls City and Shubert VFW Ladies Auxiliary.

Ella Mae is survived by her sons, Alan and his wife Freeda of Falls City, Paul and his wife Linda of Columbia, MO, ten grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sons, Dana and Kevin, granddaughter, Emily Romine, brother, Kenneth Boyer, sisters, Jean Shannon and Nola Darlene Lock.

Her funeral will be held on Friday, May 3, 2019 at 10:30 AM at First Christian Church with Reverend Fay Ann Blaylock officiating. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

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

In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials be made to Richardson County Humane Society.

Bernice Vivian Taylor, Lt. Colonel, age 100, USAF retired, formerly of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, died April 27, 2019, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.

She was born to Ada Park Taylor and Peter Taylor of rural White Cloud, Kansas, on June 20, 1918.  She graduated from the White Cloud Kansas High School in 1936, and Missouri Methodist Hospital School of Nursing in St. Joseph, Missouri, in 1940.  She joined the American National Nurses in 1940, and as an American National Nurse was called to serve in 1941 and served five months at Camp Funston in Kansas.  In 1942, she joined the US Army as a member of the Los Angeles Medical Group organizing the 73rd Evacuation Hospital. In 1943, she was assigned to the China, Burma, India (CBI) theater, serving with the US and Chinese armies in Burma.  Her patients for 2 years were Chinese soldiers. 

After the war she was stationed with the occupation forces in Japan.  In 1949, she transferred to the US Air Force.  She permanently retired in 1966, as Lieutenant Colonel, by reason of physical disability, with 24 years, 9 months of combined Army and Air Force service, from Elgin Air Base in Florida.  She moved to Manhattan, KS, in 2012 to be closer to family.

Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, five brothers: Orville, Fred, Herman “Mike”, Leo and Ralph; also six nephews and one niece.  She is survived by nieces: Phyllis Taylor of Manhattan, KS, Linda Taylor of California, Judy Holliday of Topeka, KS; and nephews: Donald Taylor, Sr. of Larned, KS, Ronald Taylor of St. Joseph, MO, and Douglas Taylor and David Taylor of Oskaloosa, KS.

Memorial inurnment services with military honors will be at 1:30 PM, Saturday, May 18, 2019 in the Peter Taylor lot in Olive Branch Cemetery, White Cloud, KS.

Online condolences may be left for the family through the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com.

 The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502, is assisting with local arrangements. Barnett Family Funeral Home of Oskaloosa is assisting with Cemetery inurnment services. www.barnettfamilyfh.com

Maurice Edward Bergman, 58, of Vermillion, died in Frankfort, Kansas on Sunday, April 28, 2019.

Maurice was born on December 20, 1960 in Seneca to Merlin H. and Leona Koelzer Bergman. Maurice attended Vermillion Grade School and attended Centralia High School, graduating in 1979.

After he graduated, Maurice was employed by Frosty McClary Oil and later for James Woolsoncroft. Maurice also helped his father with the everyday farm operation and with their custom farming.  Due to his father’s failing health Maurice and his brother, Stephen, bought the family farm in 1983 and started farming together, a partnership that was still active at the time of Maurice’s death.

Maurice had one hobby and that was farming; although his greatest passion was his children. He enjoyed a good tractor pull, KU and going to concerts when he could.

He was a member of the Annunciation Catholic Church in Frankfort, where he was an usher. He was also member of the Knights of Columbus in Frankfort.

He is survived by his son, Jordan Bergman of Vermillion; his daughter, Bailey Bergman of Vermillion; brothers; Stephen (K’lyn) Bergman of Frankfort and Roger (Brenda) Bergman of Vermillion; and sisters, Connie (Morris) Campfield of Lincoln, Nebraska, Denise (Joe) Kohake of Centralia and Stacie (David) Korte of Kelly.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 P.M. on Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM Wednesday, May 1, 2109 at Annunciation Catholic Church in Frankfort.  Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Church Cemetery in Baileyville.

The memorials will be designated later.

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

Michael D. Streit, 61, of Sabetha, Kansas formerly of Seneca, Kansas passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2019.

Mike was born on April 20, 1958 in Seneca, Kansas to Raymond and Mildred (Heaton) Streit.  Mike graduated from Nemaha Valley High School in 1976.  He served in the United States Navy. He worked at Wenger Manufacturing in Sabetha for over 30 years.  

Mike enjoyed spending time at his farm, collecting antique farm equipment, volunteering with the Albany Historical Society and riding Harleys.  Mike was known for building an outdoor fire and making excellent food on his cast iron cookware. 

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Dennis Streit in 1977 and Richard Streit in 1990.

He is survived by his sister, Janet Streit of Palm Desert, CA; two brothers, Don Streit and Ken Streit both of Seneca, KS; eight nieces and nephews, Jamie (Adam) Edie, Travis (BranDee) Stuke, Chelsea (Myron) Liu, Tracy Linden, Katie Linden, Megan (Kent) Wilmeth, Elizabeth Streit and Heather Streit.

Funeral service is Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the Popkess Memorial Chapel in Seneca.  Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home.  Interment will be in the Seneca Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Albany Historical Society sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle St. Seneca, KS 66538. Online condolences may be left at www.popkessmortuaries.com

Retta Sue (Moore) Wenger, 79, of Sabetha, Kansas was born on August 7, 1939, at her parents’ home in Falls City, Nebraska.  She was the daughter of Raymond and Catherine “Kate” (Brazau) Moore.  Retta was raised in Falls City and attended Falls City public schools.  She graduated from Falls City High School with the class of 1957.  Retta was married and divorced and two daughters, Susan and Mary Ann, were born to this union.  She was later united in marriage to Merlin D. Wenger in 2004 after retiring from the Sabetha Community Hospital after completing 38 years of service as Director of Medical Records.  Retta became a resident of the Apostolic Christian Home when her health began to decline.  Her finals wishes were to turn to your child and give them a hug and celebrate the time you have together.  “Our time is like a wisp in the wind.”

Retta passed away quietly and peacefully on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha, Kansas having reached the earthly age of seventy-nine years, eight months and twenty days.  She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant daughter Mary Ann, brothers Bob and Karlus Moore, and brother-in-law Don Shaw.

Retta is survived by her loving husband Merlin Wenger of Sabetha, KS; daughter Susan Phillips-Keholm and husband Greg of Omaha, NE; grandchildren: Mandy Bowen and husband Quentin of Humboldt, NE; Trenton Phillips and wife Tiffany of Humboldt, NE; Katie Phillips of Bellevue, NE; great-grandchildren: Lillian, Bradyn and Evelyn Bowen of Humboldt, NE; Charlotte Phillips of Humboldt, NE; a sister JoEtta Shaw of Falls City, NE; sisters-in-law: Janice Moore of Falls City, NE; Pat Moore of Nebraska City, NE; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 4, 2019, at The Church of Christ, 310 Oregon Street, in Sabetha, Kansas with Don Fischer officiating.  Family will greet friends one hour prior to services at the church.

Inurnment will be prior to services at the Sabetha Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Carpenter Place Children’s Home, 1501 N. Meridian, Wichita, Kansas 67203.

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

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

Lois Jean (Hines) Myers, 90, of Lancaster KS passed away at her home on Saturday, April 27, 2019.

Funeral services will be 2:00 pm on Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at the Lancaster United Methodist Church with Rev. Seth Montgomery officiating. Burial will follow in the Alderson Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 7:00 to 8:30 pm on Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison KS.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Lancaster United Methodist Church or the Alderson Cemetery and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Lois was born on January 1, 1929 in Atchison KS the daughter of L. Frank and Ruth A. (Bunnell) Hines. She graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1946 and attended one year at Emporia State University.  Lois taught school for 3 years at Maple Grove and Hopewell Schools. She worked from 1969-1993 as an elementary para educator for USD # 377 and USD # 409 schools. Lois was a member of the Lancaster United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women; she was a 70 year charter member of the Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority, and a member of the Atchison Area Association of Retire School Personnel (AAARSP).

She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, cooking, and sewing. She and Melvin enjoyed traveling having traveled to all 50 states. Lois had the gift of being able to teach and being approachable by children.

She was married to Melvin M. Myers on July 30, 1950 at Lancaster United Methodist Church and remained married for 68 years until his death on Feb. 26, 2017.  Her parents, a son Duane Myers, a brother Milton Hines also preceded her in death. 

Survivors include two favorite sons, David (Deborah) Myers, and Kevin (Lisa) Myers, both of Lancaster, KS and two favorite daughters, Nancy Myers (Roger Dreyer) Leavenworth, KS and Lori (Mark) Boos, Lancaster, KS, two grandchildren, Hannah (Cory) Eckert and Paige (Lane) Chew and two step grandchildren, Sarah Felton and Raymond Felton.

Verna Mae Smith, 83, formerly of Effingham KS died Saturday, April 27, 2019 at the Atchison Senior Village Nursing Home.

Funeral services will be 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at the Becker Chapel, 402 3rd St, Effingham, KS with Rev. Jeff Cochran officiating. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery, Effingham, KS.  The family will receive friends from   6:30 until 8:00 pm on Monday, April 29th, 2019 at the Becker Chapel in Effingham, KS.  Memorial contributions are suggested to Faith Bible Fellowship Church and may be sent in care of the funeral home at 800 Kansas Ave, Atchison.  Condolences online may be left at www.beckerdyer.com

Verna Mae Kidd was born on May 2, 1935 in Kimball, NE the daughter of Guy V. and Eva Mae (Mellott) Kidd. She moved to Effingham from Dickinson TX in 1992. Verna worked as a sewing machine operator for the Topeka Tent & Awning.  She was a member of the Faith Bible Fellowship Church, Atchison KS, Weight Watchers, and enjoyed crocheting, and traveling.

She was married to Charlie M. Smith on Sept. 18, 1964 in San Antonio, TX. Mr. Smith survives of the home in Effingham.  Additional survivors include a son,   Martin L.(Dena) Smith, Meriden, KS and three daughters, Diana M Stone, Topeka, KS and Debra K. (Allen) Cell, Lake Perry, KS, Delores A. Garfrerick, Alpine, AL and a sister,  Claire E. Oberle, Ft. Wayne, IN, fifteen grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. 

Her parents, two sons, Timothy J. and William A. Smith, a daughter, Patricia M Smith, two brothers, Guy Verne Kidd and Louis Kidd, and two sisters, Alberta L. Mangum and Rena Keatel and two grandchildren preceded her in death.

June Clarine Coleman, 86, of Valley Falls, formerly of Holton, died Friday, April 26, 2019, at Midland Care at Linnwood Park Home Plus at Valley Falls.

She was born Dec. 5, 1932, at Valley Falls, the daughter of John Clarence and Noma Merle Lewis Matthews. She graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1950.
When she was 60 yrs old, she received her LPN degree from Kaw Valley Technical School in Topeka.

Clarine worked alongside her husband, Ron, first at Coleman’s IGA Foodliner at Valley Falls, and then at Ron’s United Super grocery store at Holton. She managed the bakery and cake decoration department. After becoming a nurse, she worked at the Holton Hospital and also as a clinic nurse for Dr. Joel Hutchins and Dr. Carlos Chavez.

She was a member of the Vallerian Study Club in Valley Falls, and was a 50 yr member of PEO Sisterhood with Chapter DK in Valley Falls and Chapter P in Holton. She belonged to Pilot Club and was a member of the First United Methodist Church, both in Holton. She had served as treasurer of the Kendall Memorial Swimming Pool Fund Raising Committee in Valley Falls.

Clarine married Ronald E. Coleman, Oct. 30, 1950, at Hot Springs, Ark. He died Oct. 30, 2001.

Survivors include two sons, Gary (Jayne) Coleman, Valley Falls, and Scott (Susie) Coleman, Topeka; a daughter, Gail (Dr. Darrell) Carder, Perry; two sisters, Mary Lou Irwin and Caroline Kern, both of Topeka; nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Lisa; her brother, Dr. Joseph Matthews; and her sister, Noma Eisler.

The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 30, 2019, at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Burial will follow at the Valley Falls Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Monday.

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

Donald C. Vice, 93, of Stella, NE, passed away April 26, 2019 at Falls City. He was born January 9, 1926 at Shubert, NE to William “Glen” and Gladys (Ramsey) Vice.

He married Shirley Bragg on October 17, 1954 at Shubert, NE.

He enlisted in the U. S. Army in 1946 and was honorably discharged in 1948.

Don was raised on a farm east of Shubert with 9 brothers and sisters. Following his discharged he worked in the oil fields and did construction for several years. He was a field superintendent for Brandt Drilling Company for five years in Wichita, KS. He decided to go back into construction working with Shirley, alongside his children and grandchildren until 2011 when he finally retired at the age of 86. He still liked to go with the boys at sites after that. Next to God and family, his work was his life. Nothing was ever to hard or unimportant for him to do.

Preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ was his joy. He was never ashamed to share his love for Christ, he enjoyed praying for the needs of other people. He wrote several songs and loved to sing and play guitar. His favorite song he wrote was “Lord I Know I’m Not Worthy”. His favorite songs to sing with his brother, Rolland was “One Day At A Time Sweet Jesus”, “Without Jesus You Won’t Make Heaven” and “If You Do Not Know Jesus Today, You may Not Have Tomorrow”. He was a member of Good News Assembly Of God Church at Falls City

Don is survived his wife, Shirley of Stella, sons, Zac and his wife Kathy of Verdon, Montana and his wife Patty of Shubert, Noha and his wife Carrie of Stella, daughters, Christy Berglund of Stella, Zina Dotson and her husband Kenny of Shubert, brothers, Glenn and his wife Maurine of Shubert, Teddy and his wife Colleen of Omaha, NE, Leland and his wife Lorraine of Shubert, Rolland and his wife Iris of Stella, sister, Lila Meyerkorth of Shubert, fourteen grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, thirty-one great-grandchildren and twelve step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by by his parents, sisters, Darlene Bednorz, Gladys Lundy, Wilda Halligan, brother, Howard Vice, son-in-law, Stanley Berglund and a son, Laythan Vice.

His funeral will be held on Monday, April 29, 2019 at 10:00 AM at Good News Assembly of God Church with Reverends Tim Boatright and Bob Nazarenus officiating. Interment will be in Harris Cemetery. Military Graveside Honors by Shubert American Legion.

The family will receive friends on Sunday from 4-6:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Melvin Dean Guffey, 67, of Winchester, died Tuesday, April 24, 2019 at the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City.

Melvin  lived in Winchester since 2008, moving from Riverside, CA.  He was born May 18, 1951 in Novinger, MO, the son of Grover Cleo and Norma Jean Glaspie Guffey.  He was a 1971 graduate of Jefferson County North High School and served three years in the U.S. Navy. He worked 20 years as a custodial  floor technician for hospitals in California before retiring in 2008. 

He is survived by two brothers, John Guffey, St. Joseph, MO, Richard Guffey, Winchester, one sister, Betty Gast, McLouth, and extended family.  He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother, Grover C. Guffey, JR.

Funeral Service will be 1:00 PM, Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at Barnett Family Funeral Home, Oskaloosa. Burial will be at Winchester-Wise Cemetery. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at the Funeral Home. Memorials suggested to Alzheimer’s Foundation in car of Barnett Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602, Oskaloosa, KS,   66066.   www.barnettfamilyfh.com

John “Boulder” Ramer, 77, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 24, 2019 at Lincoln, NE. He was born December 29, 1941 at Barada, NE to Joseph and Alice (Sailors) Ramer.

He married Judy Poorker on July 15, 1960 at Hiawatha, KS

John was raised in the Barada area and graduated Shubert High School in 1958. He was given the nickname of “Boulder” during his junior football season in high school. Following graduation he worked on farms then for Union Pacific Railroad and then for Burlington Northern Railroad, becoming disabled in 1978.

John is survived by his wife, Judy of Falls City, daughters, Lou Anne Munoz and her husband Tito of Verdon, NE, Cindy Clancy and her husband Steve of Dawson, NE, Sheila Snodgrass and her husband Dan of Humboldt, NE Amy Gibson and her husband Rich of Falls City, son John Ramer II and his wife Stacy of Shubert, NE, brother, Gary and his wife Janice of Reserve, KS, nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Dorman, Herbert and Bud all in infancy and Don, sisters, Doris Jared, Melba Rowell and Bonnie Eaton.

His funeral will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Tom Bentley officiating. Interment will be in Harris Cemetery.

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

Leona D. (Laue) Bartels, 79, of rural Tecumseh, passed away April 24, 2019 in Lincoln, Nebraska.   She was born to Edward and Dorothy (Koehler) Laue, Sr. on March 6, 1940 in Tecumseh, Nebraska.  Leona was baptized April 14, 1940 and confirmed Feb. 22, 1953 at the St. Paul’s Evangelical Reformed Church, rural Tecumseh, Nebraska.  She went to elementary school at District #68 near Tecumseh, and high school in Tecumseh, graduating in May of 1957.

She was united in marriage to Harold Lee Bartels on April 27, 1958 by Pastor Kaiser at the St. Paul’s Evangelical Reformed Church, rural Tecumseh, Nebraska.

Leona worked at the Campbell’s Soup Company and as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Med Aide, and later in the laundry for the Maple Grove Home until it closed in 1998.  She was a homemaker and dedicated farm wife to her husband Harold. She was a member of the Southeast Farmettes Extension Club. Early in their marriage, Harold and Leona enjoyed going to dances and they always liked going out to eat together.  Leona loved cooking and baking and taught many of her grandchildren baking, cooking and canning skills. Her home was always an open door for family and she would have plenty of food around to share.  She often babysat for many of her nieces and nephews.  Leona faithfully watched Big Joe’s Polka Show over the years.  She dearly loved her family and was thrilled to recently welcome her first great-grandson.   Her husband Harold passed away January 17, 2017. Leona continued to live on the farm with the assistance of her son and his family.  The date of her funeral would have been Harold and Leona’s 61st wedding anniversary. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and aunt and will be deeply missed by many.

She is survived by her daughters, Deb Matulka and husband Mike of Thedford and Lynette Fleck and husband Larry, Jr. of Owasso, OK, son, Daniel Bartels and wife Kim of rural Tecumseh, grandchildren, Drew (Tayla) Fleck, Jessica Matulka, Caitlin Fleck, Melissa (Jared) Mracek, Valerie Matulka, Cody Bartels and Kyle Bartels, great-grandson, Brayden Michael, sisters, Bernice Rinne of Beatrice, Ruby McGuire and husband Dave of Cortland, brothers, Larry ”Pee-Wee” Laue of Tecumseh, Richard Laue and wife Lois of Wymore and sisters-in-law Cynthia Laue of Lincoln and Sharon Hestermann and husband Eldon of Eagle and brother-in-law, Eldon Bartels and wife Lois Ann of Elk Creek and numerous nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Barbara Jean, husband, Harold, sister, Donna Beth Laue, brothers, Glen Laue and Edward Laue, Jr., brothers-in-law, Charles Rinne and Kenneth Bartels and sister-in-law, Delilah Laue.                                    

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 27, 2019 at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Tecumseh, Nebraska with Rev. Robert Schermbeck officiating.  

Visitation will be at the Wherry Mortuary in Tecumseh, Nebraska, Friday, April 24, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m.

Memorials may go to the family's choice.

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

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

Kenneth Allen Guy Jr., 58, of Robinson, KS died unexpectedly April 24, 2019 at his home.

Allen was born September 22, 1960 in Hiawatha, KS to Kenneth Allen Guy Sr. and Elsie Mae Miller. Allen grew up in Robinson, KS. He later moved to south Dallas, TX for three years and worked construction. Allen then returned back to Kansas and worked around his house. Tinkering with his lawnmowers and mowing lawns. He was very artistic and loved to draw flowers and write poems.

He is survived by his mother; Elsie Guy of Robinson, KS, sisters; Barbara (Kennedy) Loper of Fair Hope, Alabama, Elizabeth “Betsy” (Gary) Armstrong of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Gail (Sam) Adkins of Hiawatha, KS, brother; Scott (Paula) Guy of Olathe, KS and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Guy Sr. March 11, 2019, a niece; Amanda Jennings Knowlton, grandparents, and a dear friend; Linda Perkins.

Memorials services will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the Kenneth Allen Guy Jr. Memorial Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S. 7th St. Hiawatha, KS 66434.

Online condolences may be made to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Marion E. Marmet, 85, of Sabetha, Kansas died Thursday, April 25, 2019 at the Sabetha Community Hospital.

Marion was born June 22, 1933 in Sabetha the son of Wesley and Viola (Eichelberger) Marmet. Marion was raised on a farm north of Sabetha and attended Rock Creek Grade School. He graduated from Honey Creek High School in 1951. Upon graduation, he farmed and worked at the Nemaha Cooperative Creamery in Sabetha.

Marion married Bernita Bucher of DuBois, Nebraska in 1953. He served two years in the U.S. Army (1955-1956) with one year in Korea. Marion owned and operated his business, “Marmet’s Service,” for 27 years where he sold and serviced household appliances and did electrical wiring, refrigeration, heating and air conditioning.

Marion loved the outdoors and for all of his life was an avid fisherman and hunter. In retirement, he joined the Topeka Wood Carvers Association and pursued his loved of nature by carving ducks, fish, pictures, and also made many pieces of furniture. He was a member of the NorthRidge Church, formerly the Congregational Church, where he served as a Trustee and Assistant Sunday School Superintendent.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Melvin Marmet and Merle Marmet.

He is survived by his wife, Bernita of the home; his son, Terry (Mary) Marmet of Topeka, KS; his daughter, Brenda (Richard) Coldiron of Wichita, KS; his brother, Paul Marmet of Holton, KS; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be held Monday, April 29, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to service time at the funeral home. Interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to NorthRidge Church of Sabetha, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Lester V. Deters, 93, of Corning, passed away peacefully at the Onaga Community Hospital in Onaga, KS on Tuesday, April 23, 2019.

Lester was born on September 25, 1925 on the family farm to Bernard A. and Anna (Wiltz) Deters of Baileyville, KS. He was the oldest of 14 children. He graduated from the 8th grade in May of 1940 in Baileyville.

After graduation, he worked on the family farm until he was called to serve in World War II in 1945. He was in the First Field Artillery Battalion and earned a rank of Tech 4. He was honorably discharged on December 29, 1946. The date of his future wife’s birthday. He then went back to work on the family farm in Baileyville until he married.

On February 16, 1949, he married Rosalia “Sally” Boeckman at St. Bede’s in Kelly. They farmed west and north of Centralia and later moved to a farm east and south of Corning. They were parents to 11 children, 5 boys and 6 girls. His wife of 43 years passed away August 8, 1992. He later married Arlene Feldhausen in 1994 in Marysville, where they lived for several years until she passed away in 2016. He later moved to Seneca and eventually entered Eastridge Nursing Home in Centralia, KS.

His occupation and his hobby was farming, which he passed on to his sons. His grandpa, Henry Deters, was his mentor who taught him all about farming with horses. He enjoyed watching his children play sports especially baseball and softball. He also loved to watch the Royals play on tv.

In 2005, Lester received a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of his valuable contributions to the United States of America and a Certificate of Continuous Membership to the American Legion for more than 60 years of membership.

Lester was member of the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning, and was a current member of the Corning American Legion and past church council member.

Besides his parents and wives, he was preceded in death by his children; Lisa Marie, Mary Louise and Sheri Mary who died in infancy; and a son, Galen on September 21, 2016; brothers, Merlin Deters on September 23, 2006, Urban Deters on July 23, 2008, Alvin Deters on August 30, 2009, Raymond Deters on May 11, 2016 and an infant brother; sisters, Shirley Banks on July 14, 2008 and Lucille Boeckman on August 6, 2012.

Survivors include seven children, Danny (Pat) Deters, Corning, Ron Deters, Corning, Marlene (Bob) Griffith, Bern, Debbie (Ross) Manuel, Havensville, Marcia (Steve) Kramer, Seneca, Bruce (Brenda) Deters, Seneca and Eric Deters, Corning; 15 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren with 2 more on the way. Other survivors include his brothers, LeRoy Deters, Baileyville, Bernie Deters, Baileyville, Dwaine Deters, Seneca, Gene Deters, Gravois Mills, Missouri and sisters, Alicia Burdick, Sabetha and Aurea Schmitz, Seneca.

Rosaries will be prayed at Lauer Funeral Home on Thursday, April 25, 2019 at 2 & 7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, April 26th at 10:30AM at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning. Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military honors.

Memorials may be given to the St. Patrick’s Church and/or Cemetery at Corning.

On Monday January 28, 2019 Dale Walter Stuke passed away at the age of 65 in a Wichita Hospital.

Dale was born on April 10, 1953 in Seneca to Wilbur and Louise Niekamp Stuke. He attended Sts. Peter and Paul Grade school and graduated form Sts. Peter and Paul High School in 1971.

After graduation he helped his father on the family farm, until he had a motorcycle accident which prevented him from doing heavy labor. Shortly after that he went to a correspondence school for drafting and graduated after the course was finished. Later he owned and operated EFD service for a couple years it was a every day delivery company. The he went out west to work For Jim Koehler in the haying fields for a couple years before returning to Wichita to purchase a gas station. He later sold it and started to work for an auto glass company which he worked there for 30 years.

Dale had a passion for music, classic cars and tinkering on house projects. He had played in various bands throughout the years doing what made him happiest, making music. He was known for his sense of humor, sarcasm and at time stubbornness.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents.

Dale was survived by his children Sack Stuke in Wichita and Amie Stuke in Fayetteville, Arkansas, his brothers, Wayne Stuke of Topeka and Galen (Lynette) Stuke of Seneca several nieces and nephews and many cousins.

A visitation and a gathering will be from 1 to 2 P.M. on April 27 at the Lauer Funeral home in Seneca with the burial to follow in the Sts. Peter and Paul catholic Cemetery in Seneca.

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

Jeananne (Hanna) Orr, 76, of Sabetha, Kansas passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha.

Jeananne was born August 6, 1942 in Washington, D.C. the daughter of Andrew Maurice and Jean Cecil (Roberts) Hanna.

Jeananne and George were married on May 29, 1965 in Arlington, Virginia. They moved around the world a lot due to George being in the military – Germany, Kentucky, California, Florida and Oklahoma. They made their final home in Sabetha, Kansas.

Jeananne was a member of the Business & Professional Woman’s Club, TRI Kapa Sorority, and volunteered in Hospital Guild and the Christian Woman’s Club.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, George on August 1, 2018; and her son, Jim on November 8, 2013.

She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Payne of Sabetha, KS; her son-in-law, Josh Payne of Sabetha, KS; and four grandchildren, Lauren, Karrington, and Ava Payne, and Olivia Orr.

A Visitation will be held Sunday, April 28, 2019 from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. Inurnment will be made in the Albany Cemetery at a later date and time. Memorial contributions may be made to Nemaha County Home Health & Hospice or the First United Methodist Church of Sabetha, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Denise Metzner, 64, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 23, 2019 at Lincoln, NE. She was born March 14, 1955 at Lincoln, NE to Wendall and Lois (Ziemann) Wissel. 

She married Vince Metzner on November 16, 1985 at Falls City.

Denise was raised at Hickman, NE and graduated Norris High School in 1973. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and then graduated University of Nebraska Medical Center as a Medical Technologist. She moved to Falls City in 1977 and became employed by Community Medical Center in the hospital lab. She was promoted to supervisor in 1987 and worked there until her death.

She enjoyed coaching junior high volleyball at Sacred Heart School, team roping mom and watching kids at roping events. She loved to garden and make Christmas candy. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

Denise is survived by her husband, Vince of Falls City, daughter, Cassie Metzner of Lincoln, son, Dusty and his wife Andrea of Rulo, parents, Wendall and Lois Wissell of Hickman.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, April 26, 2019 at 10:30 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Cole Kennett as the presiding priest. Interment will be in Falls City Catholic Cemetery.

A Parish Rosary will be recited on Thursday at 7:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. The family will receive friends following the rosary.

Kathy Johnson, 66, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 20, 2019. Her memorial service will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to service time at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Kathy was raised on a ranch at Guernsey, Why and loved working on the ranch. She was a waitress in various restaurants and also transported railroad workers to different locations. She moved to Falls City in 1996 and worked waiting tables at A & G Restaurant and also White Cloud Casino. She worked at Falls City Care Center in the Dietary and Housekeeping departments until retiring in 2003 due to her health

Survivors include

Son: Daniel Sailer of Wheatland, WY

Daughter: Kathi Jo (Chris) Wilcox of Falls City

Step-son: Scott Johnson of Phoenix, AZ

Mother: Margaret McCurdy and her friend Richard Gerdes both of Falls City

Grandchildren: Emilee, Lakoda and Evan Sailer, Mataya and Keira Wilcox, Naya, Wayne and Elisha Johnson.

Her pet dog, Charlie

Betty Jean Lee, age 93 of Falls City passed in peace April 19, 2019 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Lincoln.  She was born January 4, 1926 in Union to Winnie and Frances (Hill) Crawford.  Betty was the third of four children.  While in high school, she was the head drum majorette for the Union Marching Band.  During World War II she served as a “Rosie the Riveter” at the bomber plant in Bellevue.  Following World War II she met her husband, Chester Lee Sr.  He was a railroader whose tracks led them to Falls City where they planted their roots and started their family.  They had six beautiful children, three boys and three girls.  Throughout their lives, she was a Cub Scout Leader, Girl Scout Leader and taught many children at Sunday School.   Betty was an accomplished seamstress and made all her children’s clothes, countless wedding dresses and formal wear.  At the age of 40, she decided to become a long-distance telephone operator where she stayed until her retirement. Her passions included planting flowers, drinking hot tea with toast and watching birds.  She often shared her love of the Bible and Jesus to everyone she encountered.  Her greatest passion in life was raising children.  Betty is survived by her daughters, Paula Frederick of Falls City and Jill Lee of Lincoln; sons, Roger Lee and wife Linda of Falls City and Todd Lee and wife Heather of Des Moines, IA; 14 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; siblings, William Crawford, Margaret Kearney and Rosetta Thoms; daughter, Donna Marie Schawang; son, Chet Lee Jr.; grandson, Randy Schawang and great grandson, Gage Schawang.

Funeral services will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, April 24, 2019 at Marshall Funeral Chapel in Nebraska City with the family greeting friends one hour prior to the service.  The casket will remain closed.  No other visitations are planned.

Burial will follow in the East Union Cemetery near Union.

Memorials are suggested to the family’s choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.marshallfuneral.com.  

Marshall Funeral Chapel of Nebraska City is in charge of arrangements.

Bernetta Schecher passed away quietly at home in the loving company of her husband, children and dog Wednesday evening April 17, 2019.

Bernetta was preceded in death by her parents Benny and Viola Clarke and a great-grandson Jeffrey Hedrick.

She is survived by her husband, Chuck Schecher, her brother, Don Clarke; three children: Jerry Schecher, Laura Cowart and Mike Schecher; four grandchildren; Nichole Henry, Jacob Cowart, Naaman Schecher and Keaton Schecher; and two great-grandchildren: Kadon and Jaxon Henry.

Bernetta held positions with Southwestern Bell Telephone, Brown Atchison REA, Meyer Lumber, Tri County Manor and the Horton Public Library as well as being a busy fulltime mother and homemaker.

Active in school activities throughout  the years as well as volunteering in the community, Bernetta’s kindness, nurturing spirit and willingness to help people touched a number of people’s lives during hers.

Bernetta had a green thumb, she could grow anything; and never meet a child or animal she didn’t like or an egg she couldn’t hatch!  Her generosity and kind heart guided her through life and she will be missed by us all.

The immediate family will celebrate a private service and interment.  A worthy cause suitable for public donations in Bernetta’s name will be determined by the family at a later date.
 

Verla “Jean” (Hiskey) Newton, 92, passed away Friday, April 19, 2019 at her home in Wathena, Kansas.

She was born on March 5, 1927 in Murray, Iowa to Elroy & Hattie Belle (Palmer) Hiskey.

Jean married Roy Newton on September 29, 1945 at the courthouse in Troy, Kansas. They celebrated 67 years of marriage. Her husband, Roy passed away on March 28, 2013.

Verla Jean was a loving & devoted wife & mother. Loved sewing, baking & decorating cakes, & fishing on the river bank. Enjoyed all her grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by all.

Verla Jean was preceded in death by her husband Roy Newton, her parents, brothers, Edward, Walter, Galen, and Wayne Hiskey; sisters, Florence Cunningham, Mary Iva Banks, and Marie Falkenbach, son-in-law, Leonard Snodgrass, grandchild Rynita Reiling, great-grandchildren Miranda Clary, and baby Hawkins.

Survivors: son, David (Kassie) Newton

 Daughters, Barbara Cardwell, Carolyn (Ronald) Schultz, Dianna (Steve) Shellenberger & LaDonna Snodgrass.

Sister, Laura Ripper,

17 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchild & numerous nieces & nephews.

A special “thank you “ to St. Croix Hospice, Hiawatha, KS and her caregivers: Barbara Cardwell, Carolyn Schultz, Dianna Shellenberger, David & Kassie Newton and LaDonna Snodgrass. Also we want to thank Keen Age Center.

Service will be held at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home, Wathena, Kansas at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, April 27, 2019 with granddaughter Rychelle Reiling-Mullins officiating. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday evening April 26, 2019, at the funeral home, where friends may call after 9:00 AM Thursday.

In Lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Croix Hospice, Hiawatha, KS.and/or Wathena EMS.

Burial: Bellemont Cemtery in Wathena, Kansas.

www.harmanrohde.com

...

Larry Joe “L J” Trant, 62, of Everest, KS died unexpectedly Thursday evening, April 18, at the Hiawatha Community Hospital.

L J was born December 29, 1956 in Horton, KS to Leo and Ina Trant.  He grew up in Everest and graduated from Horton High School with the Class of 1974.  L J continued his education at the Hutchinson Community College starting his career in broadcasting.

LJ’s Voice was an on air presence for several years with Multiple Farm Station Owner & Agriculture broadcaster Larry Steckline in southern and western Kansas, and enjoyed doing the morning show at station WNAD/WWLS 640 AM, in the Oklahoma City Market.  LJ also worked in Salina and Pratt Kansas before starting his 32 year career in Kanzaland. Over the years, L J has earned numerous awards through the Kansas Association of Broadcaster’s, including 4 First place awards in categories from News Reporting to Commercial Advertising.

In 2007 KNZA was named “Station of the Year” by the Kansas Association of Broadcasters.

L J also enjoyed golf, water fowl hunting and fishing and although he has never had swimming lessons, would not hesitate to jump in a float plane and fly to a remote northern Canadian Lake to spend a week away from phones and computers.

Survivors include brothers; Leon Trant of Hiawatha, KS, Lee (Susan) Trant of Crescent, Iowa, sister; Betty (James) Taylor of Hutchinson, KS and niece Sarah Trant of Crescent, Iowa.

L J was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial Services are planned for 1 p.m., May 2, 2019 at the First Baptist Church Family Life Center, 210 Lodge Rd, Hiawatha, with Pastor Blake Wyatt officiating.

Memorials are suggested in his name and may be sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S. 7th St.  Hiawatha, KS  66434.

Online condolences may be made to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Kelli Rae Royer, 41, of Arrington, died Sunday, April 21, 2019 at her home.

She was born August 31, 1977 at Holton the daughter of George and Joyce Johnson Royer.  She graduated from ACCHS in Effingham in 1995 and from the Highland Tech Nursing Program in 2013. 

Kelli had worked as an LPN at area nursing homes.

She was preceded in death by a son, Darian Campbell, and a sister, Halei Royer.  Both were stillborn.

Survivors include a son, Zachary Campbell, two daughters, Brooklyn Royer and Alexys Campbell, and a close friend of the family, Cailyn Castillo, all of the home, her parents, George and Joyce Royer, Arrington, one sister, Tammi Parrott and husband Duane,St. Joseph, MO and a nephew, Austin Parrott.

Kelli will lie instate at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Holton where family and friends will meet from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday.  Cremation will follow the visitation.  Memorials are suggested to the Kelli Rae Royer Memorial Fund, to benefit her children, or Jackson 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 

Robert George Schirmacher, 84, of Muscotah, Kansas formerly of Fall River, Wisconsin, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2019 at his son's home in Muscotah, Kansas.

Bob was born on February 11, 1935 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin the son of George and Vera Lee Schirmacher. He served with the U.S. Army in Panama from 1958 to 1961. Following his enlistment he worked with his dad in his grocery store and then managed several other grocery stores in the area before going to work as the food supervisor for the V.A. Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin where he retired after 31 years of service. Bob was the treasurer for the Columbus Auditorium and was a member of the NARFE, TOPS, Masonic Lodge and VFW of Columbus, Wisconsin.  He enjoyed photography, stamp collecting, model cars and wood working.

On March 12, 1960 he married Carole Vorhies in Keansburg, New Jersey. She preceded in death on August 20, 2012.

Survivors include two sons, Al (Deb) Schirmacher of Muscotah, Kansas and Dale (Kris) Schirmacher of Wausau, Wisconsin; daughter, Susan Buningh of Columbia, Maryland; 9 grandchildren, Daniel Reno, Josiah (Susan) Alan-Lee, Christine Reno, Matthew (Alexandra) Schirmacher, Rebekah (Timothy) Beaudry, Brandon (Jessie) Schirmacher, Nathan Schirmacher, Emily Schirmacher, Irie Schirmacher; 6 great grandchildren, Lillian, Ava, Abigail, Annabelle, Benjamin and Ashtyn.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at the Muscotah United Church in Muscotah, Kansas. The family will greet friends on Monday evening from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. A graveside service will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Sunday, April 28, 2019 at the Fountain Prairie Cemetery in Town of Fountain Prairie, Wisconsin. Memorials may be made to the Muscotah United Church or the St. Croix Hospice and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Raymond J. Tackett, 80, of Troy, KS, passed away April 18, 2019 at St. Joseph, MO. He was born June 19, 1938 at Leavenworth, KS to Raymond and Nina (Feverly) Tackett. 

Raymond served in the United States Navy.

Raymond was raised at Leavenworth and moved to the Bay area in California at the age of 14. He had several jobs and practiced several trades. He helped build I-29 and drove trucks. He had lived in Troy since 1975 and worked flea markets for the last 30 years. 

Raymond is survived by his partner, Norma Mez of Troy, daughter, Robin Smith and her husband Duane of Denison, TX, sons, Billy Ray of Missouri, Chad Ray of Billings, MT, brother, Ronald of Jamestown, CA, sister, Sandra Lewis of Castro Valley, CA, two grandchildren and a great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Yvonne Kennedy

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Reverend Paul Weinert officiating. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Monday from 6-7:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Rolande "Rolly" Nielsen Jr., 61, of Elk Creek, passed away unexpectedly on April 18, 2019.  He was born to Rolande and Betty (Shearer) Nielsen, Sr. on January 28, 1958.                                       

Survivors: wife Tami of Elk Creek, son, Jason Nielsen and wife Sonia of Elk Creek, grandchildren, Ashley Hagge, Brittany Krause and husband Landon and Dustin Rowen and wife Ragina, great- grandchildren, Garrett and Wyatt Krause, mother, Betty Nielsen of Tecumseh, sisters Pam Hanika and husband Kent of Lincoln and Wanda Nielsen of Tecumseh, brother Wade Nielsen and wife Michele of Wilsonville, AL, mother-in-law, June Heideman of Tecumseh, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, many friends and special companion Hoss. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, rural Elk Creek, Nebraska with Rev. Robert Schermbeck officiating. 

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, April 22, 2019 at the Wherry Mortuary in Tecumseh, Nebraska.

Memorials may go to the family’s choice.

Interment will be in the St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery, rural Elk Creek, Nebraska.

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

Jessiefaye L. Thornton, 92, Atchison, Kansas died Sunday, April 7, 2019 at the Atchison Hospital, Atchison, Kansas.

Funeral services will be Saturday, April 20, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. at Shiloh Baptist Church with Rev. Tim Wolfe officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Vernon Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. at Shiloh Baptist Church on Saturday, April 20th. Memorial contributions are suggested to Shiloh Baptist Church and may be left in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom the final care has been entrusted.

Born in Elwood, Kansas to Georgianna Favors Chambers and Leonard Brown. She accepted Christ at an early age.

Jessiefaye attended the Elwood schools during the early years. She loved spending most of her time at the home of her grandparents, Thomas and Edna Favors. Her family later moved to Wathena, KS where she graduated for high school in 1944.

On October 25, 1947, Jessiefaye married William H. Thornton in Elwood, KS. The couple made their home in Atchison, KS, where she become a homemaker.

In addition to being a homemaker, Jessiefaye worked diligently in her church. The earlier years, she sang in the choir, worked in the Mission Department and later on the Usher Board. Jessiefaye also was found on the kitchen committee, known for her Lemon Meringue pies. Jessiefaye loved attending the Annual Northeast District Association in various cities. She later worked for the Saunders Mfg. Company until her retirement.

After retirement, Jessiefaye could be found cheering for the Kansas City Royals and the KU Jayhawk men’s basketball team.

She leaves to cherish her memories, one son, William (Rozetta) Thornton, Atchison, KS, three daughters, Deborah (Gregory) Henderson-Green, Topeka, KS, Christel (Stanley) Oliver, Lithonia, GA, Haregwoin “Jo” (Junious) Goodwin, Olathe, KS. Seven grandchildren, Jason Goodwin, Brandi(Kyle)Doucet, Stanley Oliver, Jr., Nicholas Oliver, Holli Faye Henderson, Johnathan (Angela) Oliver, Gregory Green, II and Great Grand, Jasanel Goodwin and Kayl Doucet.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Georgianna (Sis) Chambers and stepfather, Robert S. Chambers, husband, William H. Thornton.

Elizabeth Palmer, 86, of Seneca died on Monday, April 15, 2019 at her home.

She was born on November 28, 1932 in Warrington, England to John and Ada Gibbons Riley. She grew up and attended High School in England.  In 1951, she married Keith Hibbeler; to this union six children were born.  The couple split and their marriage was resolved.  

On July 27, 1972 she married Bernie Palmer in Warrington, England.  Elizabeth moved to America in December 1972; while Bernie was in the military.  In 1990 Bernie retired from the Military and he Elizabeth moved to Seneca, his home town.  

Elizabeth enjoyed game shows, Bingo, her grandchildren, yard sales and gifting family and friends with items from her home that they admired.  She loved to clean house; and cleaned several homes in the Seneca area until her health prevented her from doing so.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Bernie of the home; six children, Paula (tony) Whitbred of Spain, Dave (Bonnie) Hibbeler of Clarksville, Tenn., Stephen (Diane) Hibbeler of Warrington, England, Pat (Ray) Bolton of Warrington, England, Julie (Dave) Buttress of Warrington, England and Wayne (Helen) Hibbeler of Warrington, England; one brother, John Riley of Warrington, England; 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held at Lauer funeral Home on Friday, April 19, 2017 from 6-7 PM.  Her funeral will be held at Lauer Funeral Home on Saturday, April 20th at 10:30 AM.  Burial will be in Warrington, England at a later date.

Memorials may be left in her memory to C.O.I.N.S for a cause and/or Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church.

Charles (Chuck) Kaster, 83, of Seneca died on Saturday, April 13, 2019 with family and friends at his side, Chuck had been in declining health this past year and had been residing at Crestview Nursing & Residential Living where he had received wonderful care and loved many of his caregivers.

Chuck was born on December 31, 1935 in Seneca to Bryan and Ethel Fluent Kaster. Chuck grew up the middle of five brothers. In his early years, while still attending high school, he lived with Henry and Vada Tegtmeier and worked at their farm, Angus Acres. He was active in sports at that time and he would remanence about the football games he played in high school. After graduation, he traveled around the country and held various jobs before enlisting in the Air force. During his six years in the Air Force, he served as an MP in Turkey. He returned to the States and completed his enlistment, being stationed at the base in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Charles married Charlene Rohlmeier on April 9, 1960 at Friedens United Church of Christ west of Bern, the couple celebrated 55 years of marriage, prior to Charlene passing away on June 30, 2015.

The couple moved to their farm in 1961; chuck loved the farm and raised a few hogs and cows. He developed a love for horses and horse racing in the late 1970s and he and his cousin, Ralph Kaster, owned several thoroughbreds that ran on the tracks in the mid-west. Also, in 1970 Charlene and he began what they both felt was a calling to be foster parents. Over the years, they opened their home to approximately 50 children.

Chuck retired from farming in 1985 and became a crop adjuster, a job he enjoyed until computers came in the picture. He retired in 2005.

Chuck was a life time member of Seneca VFW. He loved drinking coffee and beer with friends and enjoyed horses, horse racing and tractor pulls—especially the mini rods. He was often called Chuckles because he could tell some pretty funny stories.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Ryan R. Sextro on July 17, 2012; and a brother, David Kaster.

Chuck is survived by his daughters, Karla (Bob) Sextro of Seneca, Kathy (Joe) Kroeger of Marysville, Kansas and Barb (Jamey) Crockett of Dearborn, Missouri; a son Dillon Kaster of Seneca; brothers, LeRoy (Jane) Kaster of Eldorado, Roger (Rowena) Kaster of Bern, Kenny (Marcel) Kaster of Fall City, Nebraska; 15 grandchildren; and sixteen great-grandchildren with one on the way

Funeral Services for Chuck will be 10 AM on Friday, April 19, 2019 at the Du Bois Methodist Church; Chuck will lie in state at the church one hour prior to the funeral service. A visitation will be held at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca on Thursday, April 18th from 6 to 7:30 PM.

Memorials will be designated later.

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

Anna Mae Goodlet, 101, Rushville, Missouri, died Tuesday, April 16, 2019, at Atchison Senior Village.

Funeral services will be Thursday, April 18, 2019, at 2:00 P.M. at Crossroads Chapel, formerly Lewis & Clark Baptist Church, Rushville, Missouri with Rev. Terry Moore officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Bethel Cemetery, Weston, Missouri. Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 until 2:00 at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to Crossroads Chapel or Senior Village Garden Fund or Sugar Creek Christian Church and may be left in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom the final care has been entrusted.  Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Anna was born April 4, 1918, in Iatan, Missouri, the daughter of John T. and Catherine (Loubey) Large. She attended school in Iatan.

She and George Russell Goodlet were united in marriage on December 7, 1940, in Weston, Missouri. Mr. Goodlet preceded her in death on February 27, 2004.

Anna was employed with the Atchison Hospital for 30 years, serving as the head of housekeeping.

Anna was a Charter member of the Lewis & Clark Baptist Church, now the Crossroads Chapel. She loved flowers, gardening, and quilts. She cherished her family and being able to spend time with those she loved.

Survivors include a daughter, Linda Jones, Rushville, MO, a son, Wayne Goodlet, Rushville, MO, four grandchildren, three great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Russell Goodlet, a sister, Margaret Groves, a granddaughter Kelly Goodlet, and a daughter-in-law, Janice Goodlet.

Margaret Wilma (Walker) Strahm, 100, of Sabetha, KS passed away Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha.

Wilma was born October 8, 1918 in Sabetha, KS the oldest of three daughters born to Glenn and Minnie (Nohl) Walker. Wilma attended Victory Country School for eight years before she went to the Sabetha High School, and graduated in 1936.

She met her future husband, LeRoy Strahm, while roller skating at Sycamore Springs. They married in 1947 after LeRoy returned home from serving in the Marines. To this union two children were born. Donald was born in 1952 and Carol was born in 1955. Wilma worked at Fred Darval’s Drug Store and later at Paul Miller’s Drug Store. When Wilma wasn’t working in the drug stores, she was busy at home keeping the house up, cooking, butchering, gardening and attending her children’s events.

In the early 1970’s, Wilma and LeRoy purchased the Fina Service Station in Sabetha. They owned the business until the mid-1990s. They were both active in supporting causes for veterans, especially since the war affected their lives so much. Wilma was a part of the Sabetha Ladies V.F.W. Auxiliary and the American Legion Auxiliary, while LeRoy was an important part of the Sabetha V.F.W.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, LeRoy Strahm; and her sister, Irene Williams.

She is survived by her daughter, Carol Strahm of Manhattan, KS; her son, Don (Lorinda) Strahm of Sabetha, KS; her sister, Mildred Walker of Sabetha, KS; her sister-in-law’s, Lila Rice and Darlene Drolett both of Topeka, KS; and seven grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. She will always be loved and remembered for being a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, April 20, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. prior to service time at the funeral home. Interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sabetha Ladies V.F.W. Auxiliary, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Darrell W. Williams, 72, of Netawaka, KS, passed away April 17, 2019 at Medicalodge Jackson County. He was born April 4, 1947 in Holton, KS, the son of Wayne and Aletha (Bottenberg) Williams.

Darrell graduated from Netawaka High School. He was a lifelong member of the Netawaka community. He worked at Slimaker Dress Factory, Holton Manor for many years, Holton Hospital and Sac & Fox Casino.

He married Bonnie J. Turner on June 16, 1989 in Horton, KS; they celebrated over 29 years of marriage. Bonnie survives of the home. Other survivors include his mother, Aletha Williams of Holton, KS; a sister, Connie Bontrager (Roger) of Holton, KS; 3 brothers, David Williams (Mary) of Netawaka, KS, Henry Williams (Marty) of Soldier, KS and Frank Williams (Sonja) of Netawaka, KS; 4 step-children, Mary, Wendell Allen, Sonny and Ronnie and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 22, 2109 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Netawaka Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Netawaka United Methodist Church c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visitwww.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Glenn E. Lockhart, 81, Valley Falls, died Tuesday, April 16, 2019, at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka.

He was born March 14, 1938, at Wetmore, the son of VanBuren and Flossie Costen Lockhart. He graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1956. Glenn served in the US Army from 1961-63.

Glenn was a surveyor for the City of Topeka from 1968-1998. He had worked as a surveyor for several watershed dam projects and had worked at the Muscotah Hardware Store.

He enjoyed working on his grain and livestock farm and repairing equipment. He enjoyed being outdoors, especially boating activities.

He married Shirley J. Heineken, Sept. 18, 1966, at Denison.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley, of the home; two sons, Melvin (Jody) Lockhart, and Michael (Kathryn) Lockhart, all of Valley Falls; six grandchildren, Tyler, Peyton, David, Stephanie, Jennifer and Zachary; and 12 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Willis Lockhart, and sister Hazel Harrier.

The funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 20, 2019, at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Burial will follow at the Valley Falls Cemetery with military honors by Grahem-Herbers Post 3084, V.F.W. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m until service time, Saturday.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grahem-Herbers Post 3084 V.F.W. or to the Valley Falls Athletic Association and sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, PO Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. Online condolences are welcome at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Lloyd Henry Scheid, 95, of Holton, KS, passed away Monday, April 15, 2019 at The Pines in Holton with family by his side. He was born August 5, 1923 on his family farm in Whiting, KS, the son of Henry Jacob and Anna Christine (Grousch) Scheid.

 Lloyd was a lifelong member of the Jackson County community as a farmer and stockman. He learned to play the guitar at a very young age and enjoyed playing for most of his life. Lloyd was also a Caller for square dance clubs.

 He married Frances “Marie” Marriott on September 10, 1943 in Springfield, MO. They celebrated over 75 years of marriage.

Survivors include his wife Marie Scheid of the home; a son, Russell Lloyd Scheid of Mayetta, KS; a granddaughter, Jerica Marie Gallardo (Justin); step-granddaughter, Jameia Haines and 2 great-grandsons, Jaylen and Jaren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant daughter, Estella Ann Scheid.

 Funeral Services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2019 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Lloyd will lie in state beginning Wednesday afternoon. Memorial may be given to the Heart of Jackson Humane Society c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Evelyn C. Kramer, 91, of Baileyville died on Monday, April 15, 2019 at Life Care Center of Seneca.

Evelyn was born on June 7, 1927 in the family home in St. Benedict, the daughter of Frank and Mary Stegeman; when her parents died, she was only 2 ½ years old. She and her two sisters went to live with her Uncle and Aunt, John and Mary Blocker. She attended Saint Benedict School and graduated from the 8th Grade in 1942.

After she graduated, she worked in at the Blocker Hardware Store. In addition, she cooked for Father Egbert Hall and Father Cyril Boyer, rang the Parish bells and helped area families with domestic work. In 1944, Evelyn went to Kansas City and worked at Russell Stover’s Candy Company, returning home in 1945. She worked for Dr. Mollohan and his wife in Seneca, and again helped in the Hardware Store.

Evelyn married Leonard Kramer on June 10, 1947 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. The couple lived on a farm south of Baileyville. After raising her family Evelyn worked for several restaurants in Seneca, and the Gilford Hotel. In March of 1965, the couple purchased a farm east of Vermillion. After moving to the Vermillion community, Evelyn worked at the Centralia Café, the Marysville Infirmary, the Frankfort Care Home and the Nemaha-County Farm Care Home until they closed. In 1988, the couple retired from farming and moved to Baileyville. Evelyn was employed by Nemaha Valley Community Hospital for 18 years in Housekeeping & Laundry. She was named Employee of the month December 1993. She also kept house for Father George Klasinski and Father Sébastien Cleruvallath at the Baileyville Parish. Leonard and Evelyn celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary, prior to his death on January 9, 1998.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Altar Society; the past several years she attended Mass every morning. She loved her flowers and gardening. She enjoyed attending the dances at Club 36 and the Eagles. The friendships she made playing cards in the Baileyville community brought her great joy.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Ryan E. Kramer; and siblings, Mary Catherine Ornelas, Gilbert Stegeman and Amelia Stegeman.

She is survived by her four sons, Ron Kramer of Silver Lake, Gary (Helen) Kramer of Topeka, Duane (Susan) Kramer of Topeka and Dan (Gale) Kramer of Vermillion; sisters, Francis Kramer of Seneca and Juanita Koelzer of Othello, Washington; ten grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at 2PM at Sacred Heart Church in Baileyville. Rosaries will be prayed on Tuesday, April 16th, 2019 at 2 & 7 PM at Sacred Heart Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be left in Evelyn’s memory to Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Judith Kay Decker Thompson, 79, of Denison, KS, passed away Sunday, April 14, 2019 at The Pines in Hiawatha, KS. She was born May 25, 1939 in Holton, KS, the daughter of Howard and Mary Helen (Kling) Kidney.

She graduated from Holton High School in 1957 and beauty school in 1983 in Topeka.

Judy was a hairdresser and owned and operated beauty salons in Topeka, Lyndon, Circleville and Holton.

She was a member of the Evangel United Methodist Church and several card clubs.

Judy married Marvin L. Decker on November 5, 1958; they later divorced.

Judy married Harold E. Thompson on June 2, 1998; they celebrated over 20 years of marriage. Harold survives of the home. Other survivors include 3 daughters, Kellie Decker Hundley of Holton, KS, Tammie Decker Abel of Port Aransas, TX and Beckie Decker Rouse (Dennis) of Meriden, KS; step-daughter, Ruth Ann Thompson of Kansas City, MO; 2 brothers, H. Keith Kidney of St. Mary’s, KS and Robert Kidney (Elaine) of Carmel, IN; 6 grandchildren, Erika, Annie, Jeni, Parker, Hunter and Corbin; 6 great-grandchildren, Chase, Shelbie, Collier, Maddie, Charlie and Jonah and her favorite companions-her dogs, Sophie and Bella.

 She was preceded in death by her parents and a great-grandson, Rowdie Grant Nimmo.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 18, 2019 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday evening at the funeral home. 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 visitwww.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Lola Genevieve (Davis) Hatfield, 97 of Pawnee City, Nebraska passed away on Thursday, April 11, 2019 at the Pawnee County Hospital.  She was born on May 23, 1921 to Melvin and Ollie (Miner) Davis in Pawnee City, Nebraska.

Lola was raised around the Pawnee City area and attended elementary school.  Lola graduated from Pawnee City High School in 1939.

On November 16, 1941 Lola married Edward Earl Hatfield, Sr. in Abilene, Kansas.  To this union 3 children were born, Charlie, Ed and Judy.

After Edward and Lola were married they traveled a lot due to Edward being in the Military.  After Edward retired they moved back to Pawnee City in 1963.  She worked at the Drive in, S&G store, A.B. Edie, and then worked for H& H Auto until she retired.

Lola was a member of the United Methodist Church in Pawnee City for many years.  She was also a member oft the VFW Auxiliary.

Lola liked to crochet, make quilts, work puzzles and cook.  Lola loved working in the kitchen and making something new for her family and friends. She was also famous for her Chocolate Chip cookies. 

She was preceded in death by her parents Melvin and Ollie Davis, husband Edward, brothers, Wayne Davis, Dean Davis, Clarence Davis, Elton Davis, sisters, Berniece Hartman, Grace Harris, Betty Veeder.

Lola is survived by her children, Judy (Ron) Habegger of Pawnee City, NE, Edward (Cindy) Hatfield of Sebastian, Fl, Charlie Hatfield of Pawnee City, NE, nine grandchildren, five great grandchildren, brothers, Marvin Davis of Iowa, Willis Davis of Woodbine, IA, Keith Davis of Woodbine, IA, Larry Davis of Woodbine, IA, sister, Alice Davis of Dunlap, IA, several nieces, nephews and friends.

Services 10:00 a.m., Thursday, April 18, 2019 at the United Methodist Church, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Officiating Reverend Sherry Sklenar and Reverend Dale Schoening Visitation on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary,919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Interment at the Pawnee City Cemetery. Memorials to family choice.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

Irene Niekamp, 95, of Seneca passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2019 at Crestview Nursing & Residential Living, where she had been a resident since 2009.

She was born on August 8, 1923, on a farm north of Seneca, to Allie A. and Frances E. Luckeroth Stallbaumer. She grew up in the St. Benedict Community attended St. Mary’s Grade School at St. Benedict and Sts. Peter & Paul High School, graduating in 1941.

On May 5, 1943, she married Elmer H. Niekamp at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict.  The couple farmed for four years at Baileyville and four years at Sabetha before moving to the St. Benedict community where they farmed and had stock for 38 years and a dairy for 21 years.  In 1989, they retired and moved to Seneca.  After celebrating 56 years of marriage, Elmer passed away on March 18, 2000.

Irene was a homemaker and a helpful farmwife—driving a grain truck as well as the tractor doing field work.  She worked part time in the Register of Deeds Office from 1972-1980.  She planted a large garden every year and enjoyed her flowers.  She loved to quilt and crochet; she made many quilts that her and her husband, Elmer, quilted together.

She was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church and St Ann’s Altar Society. She was the Democratic Committee Woman and Supervising Judge for 12 years.   She belonged to the Richmond Township Election Board for 35 years and the Hospital Guild Card Club for many years.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Diane F. Haverkamp on September 14, 1998; a great-granddaughter, Jessica Joane Koelzer on September 10, 1997; and brothers, Eugene Stallbaumer on March 13, 2007, Mark Stallbaumer on June 4, 2008 and Gilbert Stallbaumer on July 13, 2009.

She is survived by three daughters, Mary Alice (Stanley) Schmitz of Seneca, Carolyn (Gene) Strathman of Baileyville and Ellen (Kenny) Sudbeck of Seneca; a sister, Dorothy Heiman of Seneca; twelve grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren and four step-great-grandchildren.

Rosaries will be prayed on Tuesday, April 16th at 1 & 7 PM at Lauer Funeral Home.  Mass of Christian will be at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church.  Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Cemetery and/or St. Mary’s Catholic Church and/or Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

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

James Samuel Page, 97, of Rock Falls, IL formerly of Nortonville, KS died Friday, April 12, 2019 at St. Margaret’s Hospital, Spring Valley, IL.

Funeral services will be 11:00 am on Saturday, April 20th, 2019 at the O’Trimble Chapel, 329 Main St. Nortonville, KS. Burial will follow in the Nortonville Cemetery.  The family will receive friends one prior to services at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Disabled American Veterans and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

James was born on August 17, 1921 in Atchison County, KS the son of Charles and Emma (Davidson) Page. He graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1939.  Mr. Page served in the United States Army during World War II, in the 91st Infantry, serving in North Africa and Italy.  After returning home he continued farming in the Nortonville Community.  He had attended the Nortonville Christian Church, before moving to Illinois in 1984. He was a member of the Moose Lodge in Rock Falls, IL, and enjoyed traveling, attending old thrasher and tractor shows.

He was married to Mary Eylar on Aug. 8, 1945, they were later divorced.  He later married Clare Novak on April 14, 1987, they were later divorced.  Survivors include three sons, Kenneth Page, Chino Valley, AZ, Charles (Chrissy) Page, Phoenix, AZ, and Gary (Cheryl) Page, Nortonville, KS and one daughter, Patricia Smith, LaGrange, GA., a sister, Dorothy Alderman, Littleton, CO, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.  His parents, and two sisters, Elizabeth Dimick, and Evelyn Lynn and one grandson, Trent Dedmon preceded him in death.

Nona “Polly” Pauline Schneider, 84, of Valley Falls, KS, passed away Saturday, April 13, 2019 at Linnwood Park Home Plus in Valley Falls. She was born March 17, 1935 in Topeka, KS, the daughter of Ernest “Ike” and Voleta M. (McGuire) Schuster.

Nona graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1953. She worked as a Hospice Nurse at Jefferson County Health Department from 1982-1992. She was also a homemaker.

On October 3, 1953 she was united in marriage to Kenneth Alfred Schneider. To this union they shared three children, Kendy, Trudy and Toby. They later divorced.

She was a member of Valley Falls United Methodist Church and member of the Vallerian Study Club. She was also a member of the Sunset Haven Board.

Survivors include her children, Toby D. Schneider (Deborah) of Effingham, KS, Kendy K. Trowbridge (DeWayne) of Liberty, MO and Gertrude “Trudy” Erhart (Ken) of Valley Falls, KS; a sister, Alma G. Wilkerson of Cameron, MO; 4 grandchildren, Trenton Trowbridge of Liberty, MO, Kelli Hernandez (Adam) of Valley Falls, KS, Christopher Erhart (Dera) of Valley Falls, KS and Kayla Schneider of Effingham, KS;  6 great-grandchildren, Colton Trowbridge, Chase Trowbridge, Kennadi Hernandez, Emmarie Hernandez, Addlee Hernandez and Baby Girl Erhart due in September.

Graveside Service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 17, 2019 at Spring Grove Cemetery in Valley Falls, KS. Family will greet friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at the Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Memorials may be given to the Midland Care (Home Plus) at Linnwood Park in Valley Falls, KS c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Gerald “Jerry” Rhodd, 66, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 12, 2019 at St. Joseph, MO. He was born July 7, 1952 to William and Wanda (Sisk) Rhodd.

He married Carla Stevens and they were later divorced, then married Toni Bennett and were later divorced.

He served in the Nebraska National Guard located at Falls City.

Jerry was raised in White Cloud, KS and after moving to Falls City he graduated Falls City High School in 1971. He worked for Safeway, Gambles, Derby Gas Station, Price Chopper and Hinky Dinky. In 1988 he began working for the City of Falls City in the Gas Department, he worked for 23 years, retiring in 2011 due to his health. He also worked part time for Brewer Farms during planting and harvest seasons. He was a member of Falls City Elks Lodge and Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska.

Jerry is survived by his daughter, Erin Hagedorn and her husband Tim of Lincoln, son, Josh and his wife Carla of Falls City, sisters, Wanda Craig, Marguerite Packett, Georgia Rhodd all of Falls City, special friend, Carol Zimmerman of Falls City and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Ronnie.

His funeral will be held on Thursday, April 18, 2019 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Reverend Fay Ann Blaylock officiating. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

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

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

Frederick Frank “Fred” Zabel, 93, of Atchison KS died on Thursday, April 10, 2019 at the Atchison Senior Village.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:00 pm on Monday, April 15th, at St. Benedicts Church with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as Celebrant. Burial will follow in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Atchison. A parish rosary will be recited at 2:00 pm on Sunday, April 14th, with visitation to follow until 4:00 pm at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict’s Abbey or the Benedictine Sisters and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Fred was born on April 1, 1926 in Atchison KS the son of Frank and Marie (Rohleder) Zabel. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1944. Fred served during World War II in the United States Air Force. He worked starting as a lineman for Southwestern Bell and retired as a wire chief for AT &T Telephone Company in 1985 after 39 years of service. He was a member of the St. Benedicts Church, member of the V.F.W. and American Legion Posts, Atchison and the Pioneers. Fred enjoyed bowling, yard work, flowers, woodworking and especially watching the Royals and Chiefs.

He was married to Marcelline Jean Compton on June 8, 1948 at Sacred Heart Church. She preceded him in death on July 16, 2009. Survivors include two daughters, Barbara (Leonard) Hundley, Atchison, KS and Jacqueline (Gary) Pauley, Smithville, MO, a granddaughter, Nicole (Paul) Howard, and great granddaughter, Emily Howard. His parents, wife Marcelline, a brother, William Zabel and sister, Henrietta Stucker preceded him in death.

Joyce E. Titus, 74, of Falls City, surrounded by family, passed away April 11, 2019, at Falls City Nursing and Rehab Center.

Joyce was born at Falls City March 9, 1945, the youngest of three children born to Elmer and Rhoda Bryson Stewart and was a life- long Falls City resident. She grew in Falls City where she attended public schools, graduating high school with the class of 1963. Since she was many years younger than the other two siblings, she would get away with so much more than they ever dreamed of, plus was told that she was the ‘favorite’. Joyce worked at several different things through the years including Pamida and the Falls City Journal. Most importantly she was a mother and wife.

She married James Titus at Falls City September 17, 1967. They enjoyed raising their two sons and years later, watching their grandchildren grow, participate in sporting activities, and babysitting. In later years, Joyce and Jim enjoyed doing and participating in craft shows, instructional classes which included several trips a year to Branson and other locations that hosted classes that demonstrated ‘something different’. Jim survives.

Also surviving are two sons: Scott & Cindy Titus of Lincoln, NE, Steven & Katie Titus of Reserve, KS, 2 granddaughters: Katelynn & Bristol, a grandson Bridger; a step-grand-daughter Kali. A sister in law Sue Gilsdorf of Glenwood, IA also survives.

Jokingly, years ago, it was understood among family that Joyce was not good at cooking and was told ‘she could burn French Fries.’ In her early years of marriage, her nephew would make sugar cookie dough for her to freeze to bake later. This was after her sister tried on several occasions to teach her how to make these cookies. Only Jim knows the truth if it had improved! Since she was only a few years older than her niece and nephews, she did not want to be called “Aunt Joyce”, which still holds true today (plus now it doesn’t sound right). Her heart of gold loved unconditionally, without expecting anything in return. Her love of her beloved pets runs deep. Though the years she had Mollie, Casper, and Zoe (miniature schnauzers) and a poodle named Coquette. No matter what circumstances, Joyce was a great source of strength, support, love and forgiveness. She loved deeply, without limits. There’s no care giver quite like Joyce was. She always gave so much of herself and put others needs before herself, even in her last days.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; a brother Donald, and a sister Betty Brock.

A visitation to celebrate Joyce’s life is planned from 6 until 8 Wednesday evening, April 17, at the Christian Center, 519 N First St., Hiawatha.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Richardson County Humane Society or Richardson County Cancer Fund which may be sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

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

Karen Elizabeth Radatz, 73, of Falls City, NE, passed away Wed., April 10, 2019 at Falls City.  Karen was born October 24, 1945 at Manitowoc, WI to Harlan and Gladys (Houghton) Ott of Manitowoc, WI.

Karen attended First German Lutheran School, Wilson Junior High School, and graduated from Lincoln High School, Manitowoc in 1963.  She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Library Science from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and earned additional credits in the field of Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Peru State College, Peru, NE.

Karen met her husband, Charlie, Sheboygan, WI while he was visiting in her hometown of Manitowoc.  They married on May 25, 1968 in Manitowoc and made their home in Sheboygan where Charles was a news reporter for WKTS Radio and where Karen began her teaching career as a 3rd Grade Teacher at Lincoln Elementary School.  Karen took a sabbatical from her teaching career following the birth of her first child and while she assisted her husband in the operation of KTNC Radio acquired by C.R. Communications in 1981.  She worked as an elementary school library aide in the Falls City Public Schools for five years and was a Title I teacher at North school for ten years, retiring in 2010. She was a member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (20th & Towle), retired teachers association and Falls City Education Association. She loved singing in the church choir and Sweet Adelines.

Karen is survived by her husband, Charlie, a daughter, Jenny and her husband Joseph Liu, West Covina, CA, a son, Jeff and his wife Bonnie Radatz, Seward, NE, two grandchildren, Sophia and Sean Liu, West Covina, CA, a sister, Judi Guse, Germantown, WI, nephews and nieces.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

Her funeral will be held on Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at 10:30 AM at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (20th & Towle) with Reverend Andrew Chavanak officiating. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

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

Anna Hasenkamp, 97, of Topeka, Kansas, died on Thursday, April 11, 2019, at the Midland Hospice House in Topeka.

Anna was born December 6, 1921, on a farm south of Kelly, Kansas, to Bernard and Caroline Klunenberg Schultejans. She attended and graduated from the 8th grade at St. Bede's School in Kelly. She helped on the family farm while her brothers went to war and helped the neighbors with their newborns.

On February 3, 1948 Anna married Fred J. Hasenkamp at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly. They farmed for two years in the Axtell area before moving to a farm south of Goff and Bancroft area. Fred died on November 17, 1973. After her husband died, she worked for a couple years at the Goff Cafe in Goff, Kansas. In 1980’s Anna moved to Topeka and was employed by the Topeka VA for 10 years in Food Service. Later she volunteered at the Topeka VA and also the Topeka Clothing Bank.

Besides her husband Fred she was preceded in death by a daughter, Twila (Mark) Heinen on May 31, 2014; five brothers, Bernard in 1944 (in World War II), Edwin in 1972, Albert in July 22, 1977, Ted on November 14, 2000 and Clarence on March 28, 2014; and two sisters, Mary C. Schultejans on May 30, 1931 and Bernadine Wessel on August 8, 2010.

She is survived by her children, Loren Hasenkamp of Topeka; daughters, Elaine Hasenkamp of Topeka and Susan Worrell of Topeka. A son-in-law Mark Heinen of Basehor, a sister in law, Eleanor Schultejans of Anamosa, Iowa; 12 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 AM Saturday, April 13, 2019 at the St. James Catholic Church in Wetmore. Burial will be in the Wetmore City Cemetery. A rosary will be prayed at 9:30 A.M. before Mass.

Memorials will be designated at a later date, and sent in care of the family.

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

James E.”Jim” Pike, 62, of Lancaster, KS died on Thursday, April 11, 2019 at Vintage Park in Hiawatha, KS.

Funeral services will be 11:00 am on Monday, April 15, 2019 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Rev. Shane Spangler, Pastor of the Bethany United Church of Christ Church, Hiawatha, KS officiating. Burial will follow in the Camp Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 14th, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society or the Camp Creek Cemetery and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Jim was born on September 1, 1956 the son of Wallace and Charlotte (Weber) Pike. He graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1974. He was a farmer /rancher and also worked for the Kansas Department of Transportation, out of Atchison on the road crew and lastly as a dispatcher for KDOT. Jim was an avid hunter, and enjoyed fishing, trail and horseback riding, team roping, restoring guns and reloading ammunition. He was a member of the Kansas Livestock Association, and Ducks Unlimited. He had attended Camp Creek United Methodist Church as a child with his parents.

Survivors include a brother, Gary (Mary Alice) Pike, Lawrence, KS and a sister, Debra (J.R.) Adcock, Hiawatha, KS, nieces and nephews, Joey & Molly Pike, and Megan (Kyle) Geffert, Jennifer (BJ) McKay, and great nieces and nephews, Kyler & Kayden Geffert, and Kaylie & Karsen McKay. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Leslie L. “Les” Franklin, Jr., 67, Denison, KS, passed away Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at his home. He was born April 5, 1952 in St. Joseph, MO, the son of Leslie L. Franklin, Sr. and Mildred (Byers) Franklin.

          Les graduated from Midway Denton High School in 1970. He grew up in the Denton community and also lived in Soldier, KS and San Angelo, TX. After high school he worked for Atchison Casting. He also farmed and was an over-the-road truckdriver. He later worked as a rural mail carrier, serving the areas of Robinson, Goodland, Soldier, Havensville and Circleville.

          Les enjoyed watching his grandchildren’s activities. Socializing with friends and dancing! After returning to Kansas he enjoyed reconnecting with his adult children.

          He married Shirley Norris on May 13, 1972 in Branson, MO; they later divorced. To this union 3 children were born, Wendy, Jason and Tracy.

          He married Jennifer Emert on December 22, 1990 in Branson, MO; they later divorced.

          Survivors include 2 daughters, Wendy Johnson of St. Marys, KS and Tracy Catlin (Ted) of Topeka, KS; a son, Jason Franklin of Topeka, KS; 2 step-daughters, Briana Coplin of Topeka, KS and Maggi Emert of Holton, KS; step-son, Breck Emert of Kent, WA; 3 sisters, Arlene Kuhnert (Wayne) of Bendena, KS, Sandra Maxwell (Ray) of Virginia Beach, VA and Marcille Hanlan of Blue Springs, MO and 7 grandchildren, Ty, Allie and Jayla Johnson, Taelyn and Cooper Catlin and Ferris and Elli Coplin.

          He was preceded in death by his parents; a stillborn infant brother and brother-in-law, Ron Hanlan.

          Family will greet friends from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Sunday, April 28, 2019 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Inurnment will be at a later date. Memorials may be given to the Les Franklin 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.

Virgil C. Wenger, 93, of Hiawatha formerly of Powhattan, KS died Wednesday, April 10, 2019 at the Hiawatha Community Hospital.

Family Visitation is planned for 6p.m.- 8p.m., Monday at the Bethany United Church of Christ in Hiawatha.

Memorial services are planned for 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at the Powhattan United Methodist Church in Powhattan, KS.

Memorials are suggested to the Powhattan United Methodist Church or the Bethany United Church of Christ and sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S. 7th Hiawatha, KS 66434.

Online condolences may be made to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Christopher Frenzel, 31, of Omaha, NE, passed away April 9, 2019 at Omaha. He was born October 16, 1987 at Falls City, NE to Joy and Carol (Cooper) Frenzel.

Christopher was raised in Falls City and attended Falls City Public Schools. He moved to Omaha at the age of 15 to continue his schooling. He was employed at the Autism Center of Nebraska at Omaha at the time of his passing. He was a member of First Christian Church at Falls City.

Christopher is survived by his mother, Carol Frenzel, brothers, Jeff and his wife Rana, Brandon, sisters, Jennifer Willman and her husband Larry, Lacey Acton and her husband Tom, Amber Cunningham and her husband Tom all of Falls City, a biological sister, Rachel and caregiver, Dan Swantek of Omaha. He was preceded in death his father.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2019 at 2:30 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Reverend Fay Ann Blaylock officiating.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2:30 PM on the day of the service at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Ben Oxley, 82, Kansas City, formerly of Atchison, passed away on April 6, 2019 in Kansas City, 

Funeral services will be a 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10 at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home with burial at Mount Olivet Cemetery. 

Visitation will be held at the  at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. 

Ben is survived by his wife of 50 years, Rosalie (Lalumia) Oxley; two sons, Jeff (Sherri) Oxley of Rantoul, KS and Benny (Shannon) Oxley; Kansas City, MO; two daughters, Debbie Sherer(Blaine) of Everest, KS and Shirley Irvin (Ron) of Rosehill, KS;  Brother--in-law, Mike Piper, Atchison; 18 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; three great, great grandchildren.

Norma Jean Beightel, 90, of Rifle, Colorado passed away Friday, April 5th, 2019 at E. Dene Moore Care Center. She was a 30 year Breast Cancer survivor.

Norma was born on May 9, 1928 in Southgate, California to Nolah A. and Blanche E. (Narance) Stanton.

As a child, they moved to St. Joe, Missouri and then to Atchison, Kansas. Norma worked alongside her father, who later retired from Blish-Mize Hardware Warehouse.

In 1948, Norma met the love of her life, Merrill Eugene Beightel. They married on January 23, 1949 in Holton, Kansas.

After Gene managed A&P grocery stores in Eastern Kansas, they moved to Emporia, Kansas, where they owned and operated Gene’s IGA for 15 years. Norma was their meat cutter. They then owned and operated Gene’s Quik Lube for 6 years, where they sponsored several stock car teams. She also worked at Reebles South Grocery Store as a meat cutter.

She enjoyed jitterbugging, square dancing, and camping around the many Kansas lakes and spent many summers with the family at the Lake of the Ozarks, boating and waterskiing.

Norma was a loving mother, grandmother, and was a friend to everyone she met. She was loved by everyone that she met throughout her 90 years.

After retirement, Gene and Norma celebrated 50 years of marriage, spending winters in Wellton, Arizona. After Gene’s passing, she continued to go to Arizona, with her friend, Glen Bazil.

Merrill “Gene” preceded her in death in 1999. Her sisters, Ruby Olds (Ronald) and Vera Burnett (William) and her brother, Edward “Bud” Stanton also preceded her in death.

She is survived by her son, Gregory (Greg) Beightel (Teresa) of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, daughter, Teresa (Terri) Breslin (James) of Silt, Colorado and 2 grandchildren, Sierra, Cheyenne and numerous Beightel relatives.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 Saturday, April 13th 2019 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, Kansas. Family will greet friends and relatives at 9:30. Burial will be at Olive Hill Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing 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 Kathryn (Steiner) Marti, 87, of Sabetha, KS died unexpectedly on Sunday, April 7, 2019 at the Apostolic Christian West Village Apartments in Sabetha.

She was born in Sabetha on June 16, 1931, the daughter of Joseph and Esther (Stoller) Steiner. She grew up on a farm west of Sabetha and attended the IXL Country School until 6th grade and then transferred to Sabetha Jr. High and High School. Mary graduated from Sabetha High School in 1949. Her favorite part of growing up on a farm was riding her horse.

After high school she worked at the Cook-Jones Motor Company as a bookkeeper, and then later at the Farmers State Bank. She married Eugene Marti in April of 1954, and they moved to Topeka, KS where he attended business college. Later they moved to Springfield, MO. After retiring in 1989, they moved to Overland Park, KS and then returned to Sabetha in 2016. During her retirement years, she acquired a love for making quilts and continued that until her death.

Mary became a member of the Apostolic Christian Church at the age of 25. In later years, she was a member of the Apostolic Christian Faith Church.

She was a much loved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and will be missed by all.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Eugene on October 14, 2018; sisters, Estelle Ann Steiner and Lois Meyer; and brothers, Joseph Jr., Lyle, Loren, and Merlin.

She is survived by a son, Darin (Jo) Marti of Manhattan, KS; daughters, Kara (Greg) Snyder of Stilwell, KS, Jamie Marti of Overland Park, KS and Trela (Chuck) Wirtz of Whittemore, IA; grandchildren, Quinton (Heather) Snyder and Kenton (Heidi) Snyder all of Quincy, IL, Lora (Matt) Pfeifer and Stacey Marti of Manhattan, KS, Garrett (Kathryn) Wirtz of Algona, IA, Tyson (Autumn) Wirtz of West Bend, IA and Carson (Addie) Wirtz of West Bend, IA. She was lovingly known as Nana to her 11 great-grandchildren, Declan Pfeifer, Emma, Allana, Zach, Ridge, Slate, and Tripp Snyder, and Beckett, Lincoln, Emerson, and Espyn Wirtz.

She is also survived by her siblings: Florence Meyer of Sabetha, Eleanor Weiss of Dundee, IL, Norman of Longmont, CO, Alma George of Lakeland, FL, and James of Overland Park, KS.

Funeral service will be Thursday, April 11, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Apostolic Christian Faith Church of Sabetha.  Visitation will be Wednesday, April 10, 2019 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha.  Interment will be made in the Apostolic Christian Faith Church Cemetery of Sabetha. Memorial contributions may be made to the Apostolic Christian Home – West Village, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia St., Sabetha, Kansas 66534. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Frieda K. Stahl, age 89 of Auburn, passed away Saturday, April 6, 2019 at Good Samaritan Society-Auburn.

Survivors include her sons and daughters-in-law Douglas and Kelly Stahl of Johnson; David and Diane Stahl of Auburn; grandchildren Paige Stahl and fiance` Levi Patton, Nicholas Stahl, Tawna and husband Ryan Bennett; sisters and brothers-in-law Janyce and Dick Heywood of Auburn; Myrna and Ray Meister of Fremont; Ardis and Joe Schenk of Bad Axe, MI; sister- and brother-in-law Betty and Ron Schroeder of Liberty, NE; brother-in-law Dean Epp of Plymouth, NE; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

A funeral service will be Thursday, April 11, 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran (Hickory Grove) Church near Auburn. Visitation will be at the funeral home Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Frieda’s body will be cremated following the service, and burial of ashes will be at a later date at St. Paul Lutheran (Hickory Grove) Cemetery.

Memorials to family choice are suggested in lieu of flowers.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.

Donald “Leon” Culp, 94, of Wathena, Kansas passed away Sunday, April 7, 2019 at the Wathena Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

Leon was born on April 24, 1924 in Fortescue, Missouri to Tilman & Annie (Robinson) Culp.

He served in the U.S. Army & was a member of the American Legion post #161 & the First Baptist Church of Wathena, Kansas. He worked for Richmond Screw & Anchor as a spot welder.

Leon married Gary Lou Krumme on June 10, 1950 in Troy, Kansas. She preceded him in death on August 14, 2013. He was also preceded in death by his parents, 7 brothers & 1 sister.

Survivors: Daughter, Linda Morehead, St. Joseph, Missouri

                  Son, Arley (Patty) Culp, St. Joseph, Missouri

                 5 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren & 3 great-great grandchild

                 Nieces & nephews

Funeral Service: 10:30 A.M. Thursday, April 11, 2019

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

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

Burial: Bellemont Cemetery, Wathena, Kansas. Where there will be military honor’s under the auspices of the American Legion Post #161.

Memorials: Wathena EMS

www.harmanrohde.com

Judy Ann Hayes, 73, of Holton, KS, passed away Sunday, April 7, 2019 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka. Judy was born March 9, 1946 in Concordia, KS, the daughter of Vern and Wilma Garlock.

 Judy attended Mankato High School. She lived in the Holton community since 1980 and previously in St. Mary’s. Judy was a homemaker and housewife. She was a member of the Assembly of Yahweh in Rocheport, MO.

Judy married Edwin Dean Hayes on November 24, 1975 in Formosa, KS. They celebrated 42 years of marriage.

Survivors include her husband, Edwin of the home; a daughter, Lora J. Hayes-Albert (Jeremy) of Tonganoxie, KS; 5 sisters, Darlene Garst of Mankato, KS, Shirley Elsner of WI, Ruth Mcentee of KS, Janie Sheets of FL and Beth Riley of FL; a brother, Wendell Garlock of NE and 3 grandchildren, Allyson, Caedmon and Jaxon.

 She was preceded in death by her 2 sons, Erwin and Gary Hayes on January 29, 2004 (from a tragic house fire) and 7 siblings.

 Funeral Services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 12, 2019 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Buck’s Grove Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Memorials may be given to the Jackson County Senior Citizens Center c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Wendy Marrs Walle, 41, of Table Rock, NE, passed away April 6, 2019 at Table Rock. She was born January 26, 1978 at Falls City, NE to Harry and Theresa (Prater) Marrs. 

Wendy was raised at Burlington, KS and graduated Burlington High School in 1996. She moved back to the Falls City area in 2006 and has lived in the Richardson County and Pawnee Counties areas ever since.

Wendy is survived by her daughters, Emma Knight of Andover, KS, Grace and Theresa Walle both of Table Rock, mother, Theresa Marrs of Falls City, brothers, Dan Marrs and his wife Stephanie of Oak Grove, MO, Mark Marrs and his wife Jennie of Syracuse, NE, Matt Marrs and his wife Phyllis of Falls City and a boyfriend, Don Larson of Table Rock. She was preceded in death by her father and a niece, Kylee Marrs.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at 3:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Reverend Fay Ann Blaylock officiating.

The family will receive friend 1 hour prior to service time at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Shirley Kay Trower, 74, El Dorado, formerly of Atchison, died Friday, Apr. 5, 2019, at Wesley Medical Center at Wichita.

She was born Jan. 23, 1945, at Atchison, the daughter of Edward and Gladys Hinson Bennett. She graduated from Atchison High School in 1963.

Kay worked for many years at Tony’s Pizza Plant in Salina. She later worked at Wal-Mart at El Dorado. She was a member of Carol Baptist Church and the Elks Lodge, both at Atchison.

She married Michael E. Trower, May 18, 1974, at Atchison. He died Oct. 18, 2018.

Survivors include four sons, Troy Cloves, Atchison, Tony (Julie) Trower, Topeka, Shawn Trower, El Dorado, and Nicholas (Rachel) Trower, Topeka; six daughters, Michelle Cloves, Leavenworth, Tamara Meis, Atchison, and Traci Potts, CA, Angela (Rick) Heuertz, Tecumseh, Rebecca (Scott) Brown, Meriden, and Rachelle Rice, McLouth; 18 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Douglas Bennett.

A Memorial Service will be at a later date.

Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences are welcome at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Shirley Kathleen Litke Ten Eyck, 82, of Seneca, Kansas died Friday, April 5, 2019 at Nemaha Valley Community Hospital.

Shirley was born on a farm approximately 5 miles east of Alta Vista near the north Pole Country School to John and Minnie Reinking Litke on August 31, 1936.

At the age of 6 she began 1st grade at the South Pole School District. When she was in the 3rd grade they moved to the Beman School District. In July of 1952 she was confirmed into the Lutheran Faith at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Alta Vista, Kansas. She graduated from Alta Vista High School in June of 1954.

On November 21, 1954 Shirley was united in marriage with Eldon R. Ten Eyck at St. Paul’s Lutheran church in Alta Vista. Eldon was in the United States Air Force at the time of his marriage. Their first son Ricky was born August 19, 1955 at Ft Riley Hospital. Randy was born at Cannon AFB Hospital in New Mexico on the 19th of November 1957.

In 1958 Eldon was sent to Lahore, Pakistan for duty. The family went to stay in Alta Vista during this time. In 1960 Eldon returned from Pakistan and sent to McClellan AFB, in California. Ronald was born in Citrus Heights, California on October 12, 1963.

In November of 1968, Eldon and his family were shipped to Richmond AFB in Australia. In 1971 the family returned to the United States and was stationed at Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka. Eldon Retired from the Air Force and moved his family to Seneca in July of 1973 where he was employed for Ray Hunninghake Appliance.

Shirley is survived by her husband Eldon and her sons, Rickey (Peggy) Ten Eyck of Lancaster, California, Randy (Linda) Ten Eyck of Wamego and Ronnie Ten Eyck of Seneca. A brother John Litke of Biloxi, Mississippi, 7 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be on Sunday, April 7, 2019, from 1 to 3 P.M. at the at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM, Monday, March 8, 2019 at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.  The burial will be in the Alta Vista Cemetery around noon on Monday.

Memorials can be given in Shirley’s memory to Nemaha County Training Center in Seneca 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 .

Alma Meyer, 91, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 4, 2019 at Lincoln, NE. She was born August 25, 1927 at Falls City to Carl and Caroline (Hahn) Weinert. 

She married Carl “Pat” Meyer on October 19, 1946 at Falls City. He passed away November 2, 1989.

Alma was raised at Falls City and graduated Falls City High School in 1945. She worked for Girksy Law Firm before her children were born, but after having children she became a homemaker and stayed one her entire life. When married the couple established their home at Falls City and moved  She was a member of First United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women at Falls City, Richardson County Humane Society and her Thursday coffee group.

Alma is survived by her sons, Doug and his wife Shelley, Allen and his wife Brenda, Dwight and his wife Krista, all of Falls City, nine grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, nephews and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers, Leonard and Howard Weinert, a sister, Dorothy Greenwood, a great-grandson, Gage Ramsey, and a niece, Cheryl Greenwood.

Her funeral will be held on Monday, April 8, 2019 at 10:30 AM at First United Methodist Church with Reverend Young Je Kim officiating. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

Open visitation will begin Saturday afternoon.

Steve Keller, 68, of Havensville, passed away April 1, 2019 at his home.

Steve was born January 7, 1951 in Blackfoot, ID to Ed and Mary Keller. He grew up and attended school in Firth, ID, graduating from Firth High School. He also attended Idaho State University and received his associate’s degree in body shop.

On April 5, 1991 he married Diana Hildebrand in Idaho Falls, ID. They made their home in Havensville, KS, where Steve worked as a truck driver for Jackson County.

Steve loved the outdoors. He spent his time hunting, fishing, and camping. He also liked to spend time in his shop refurbishing old items into new.

Steve is survived by his loving sisters, Fay Lloyd of Idaho Falls, ID and Carol Mecham of Shelley, ID and his brother, Tim Webb of Blackfoot, ID.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Diana; his parents, Ed and Mary Keller; his sisters, Vonda Winsky and Arlene Short; his brother, LaVern Keller, his brother-in-law’s, Shirley Short, KC Lloyd, and Mont Mecham; and his faithful dog, Morgan.

Family will greet friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, 2019 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton.

Services will be at a later date in Idaho.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in Steve’s name.

Marlene Anne Watts, 78, of Hiawatha, KS died Wednesday, April 3, 2019 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

Survivors include sons; Jeff Watts of Hiawatha, KS and Randy (Donna) Watts of Topeka, KS, brother; Jerry (Ruth) Miller of Topeka, KS, 7 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.

Graveside Memorial Services are planned for 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 9, 2019 at the Mt. Hope Cemetery in Hiawatha. Rev. Shane Spangler will officiate.

Memorials are suggested to the Trinity United Methodist Church or the Doniphan County American Legion Post #55 for the baseball program, which may be sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S. 7th St. Hiawatha, KS 66434.

Marjorie Irene Buessing, 91, Axtell, died April 3, 2019 at Crestview Manor Nursing Home, Seneca, Kan.

Visitation will be Sunday, April 7, from noon until 5 p.m. at Axtell-Landreth Funeral Home, Axtell, Kan.

A rosary service will be at 7 p.m., Sunday at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Axtell.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, April 8 at St Michael's Catholic Church with Father Jim Shaughnessy officiating.

The pallbearers are all grandchildren of Marjorie. They are Brian Hinkle, Dan Hinkle, Phillip Buessing, Gil Korpi, Daniel Buessing, Jonathan Todd, Andrew Todd and Dakota Angell.

Burial will be in St. Michael's Catholic Cemetery.

Marjorie was born in Axtell, Kansas February 15, 1928 to Peter and Irene (Godbout) Porting and lived her entire life within five miles from where she was born. She attended Grand View Country School one year and the remaining in St Michael’s and Axtell Public schools. She was a lifelong member of St Michael’s parish and the Ladies Guild.

On August 27, 1946 she married Leo Henry Buessing. To this marriage were born seven children, six of whom survive: Diane (Mike) Hinkle, Kansas City, KS; Barry (Peggy) Buessing, Axtell; Debra (Steve) Korpi, Leawood, KS; Roger Buessing, Bennett, CO; Karen (Doug) Todd, Seneca; Connie (Jeff) Angell, Dillon, CO. Also surviving are 15 grandchildren, 2 step grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren, and a sister Dorothy (Robert) Landrum of Hot Springs, AR.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Carol in 1975, her husband Leo in 2006, her parents, her brothers Alfred, Eugene & Gerald and her sisters Eileen Shaughnessy, Mary Kay Burdolski, Rita Kuckelman & Anna Marie Kuckelman.

A life-long homemaker, she will be forever remembered for her unforgettable meals that her brother-in-law referred to as “country cuisine” and for her gardening, sewing, embroidery and quilting skills. She was also an avid and enthusiastic Kansas City Royals baseball fan a follower of K-State sports.

Nora Lucille Statler, 74, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2019 at the Highland Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Highland, Kansas.

She was born on July 26, 1944 in Whitesburg, Kentucky the daughter of Earl and Jettie Calahan Caudill. After high school Nora served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era. Nora worked as a Certified Nurse’s Aide for a number of years prior to becoming self employed, helping her husband manage Statler Auto and Wrecker Service along with the video store in Horton, Kansas. She was a member of the Horton American Legion Post #7 and enjoyed arranging the Veteran's Day Parade. On July 26, 1986 she married Gerald Statler in Horton, Kansas. He preceded her in death on February 25, 2003.

Survivors include three sons, Steven (Coleen) Wilson of Conway, Arkansas, Ronnie Statler of Topeka, Kansas and Dennis (Gail) Statler of Horton, Kansas; a daughter, Debbie Shaw of Horton, Kansas; sister, Janetta Morgan of Clarksville, Tennessee; three brothers, Lloyd "Bud" Caudill of Cadiz, Kentucky, Lorne of Clarksville, Tennessee and Lynn Caudill of Oak Grove, Kentucky; fourteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Teresa Wilson.

Graveside services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, April 6, 2019 at the Horton City Cemetery. The family will greet friends on Friday evening from 6:30 to 7:30 P.M. at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. Memorials may be made to the Horton American Legion and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com
 

Zelma Mae Schnepp 83 of Beatrice, Nebraska formerly of Du Bois, Nebraska  passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2019 at Good Samaritan Society in Beatrice.  She was born on October 16,1935 in Branson, Missouri to Ernest and Violet (Bacon) Bockus.  When she was a small child the family moved to Pawnee City, Nebraska area where she grew up and attended school.

Zelma met Lee Roy Schnepp in the spring of 1955, they were married on December 31, 1955.  Lee Roy and Zelma farmed all of their married life in the Du Bois area.  They were blessed with three precious daughters, Susan, Ann and Lori.  Zelma’s greatest joy was spending time with her girls and their families.  Zelma also loved music, reading, gardening and flowers.  Following a heart attack in 2001, she moved to a retirement home in Beatrice to be closer to her heart doctor and other family members.

Zelma was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, Belva Mendenhall, Ethel Sugden and Melva Waldron.

Zelma is survived by her daughter, Susan and husband Jim Christman of Du Bois, NE, their children, Jason and Lori Marteney ( Brady, Austin and Ashlyn) of Topeka, KS, Jeremy Marteney and family of Pawnee City, NE, and Marie (Christman) and Sam Randall (Maisie, Paisley, and Grady) of Adams, NE, daughter, Ann and husband Al Rumbaugh of Plymouth, NE, their children, Beth Yoble Clifton and Eric Townsley (Tucker and Ryker) of Plymouth, NE, Cody Rumbaugh of Milford, NE, daughter Lori and husband James Verhoeff of Lincoln, NE, their children, Jamie Schweiter (Jovie and Jennica) of Lincoln, NE, James and Courtney Verhoeff (Agnes and Avila) of Lincoln, NE, sister, Connie Summers, brothers, Richard, Raymond and Harvey and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Memorial service 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 8, 2019 at the Du Bois Community Center in Du Bois, Nebraska. Visitation on Sunday, April 7, 2019 from Noon-8:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 4-6 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Private family inurnment at the Pawnee City Cemetery.  Memorials to family choice.  On line condolence may be left t www.wherrymortuary.com

Keith “Butch” Rogers, 67, of Fairview, Kansas passed away on Monday, April 1, 2019 at the St. Francis Hospital in Topeka surrounded by family.

 Butch was born May 26, 1951 in Sabetha, Kansas the son of Lyle Douglas and Alta Mae (Justis) Rogers. Butch attended Fairview High School until May of 1966 when the school closed. He graduated from Sabetha High School in 1969. Butch worked with Burt Koch during his high school years going on wheat harvesting crews. He also worked two years at KDOT right after his high school graduation. He was employed by Dave Thieme and Richard Werner for several years doing construction and roofing work.

 His main love in life besides his family was his business “Checkers” that he owned for 20 plus years. He also loved his cattle, dogs, and cats. Butch was known for his famous “Butchie Burgers” and steaks. People from far and near came to Checkers to enjoy Butch’s cooking and hometown hospitality. Butch didn’t know a stranger.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Alta; a brother, Kent Rogers; two brother-in-law’s, Larry Meyer and Lyle Edelman; and a nephew, Tad Melichar.

He is survived by his four sisters, Joyce Meyer and Lyla Edelman both of Sabetha, KS, Turi (Al) Melichar of Caldwell, KS, and Nila (Dave) Swett of Sanford, ME; a sister-in-law, Sondra Rogers of Manhattan, KS; two brothers, Brad (Marie) Rogers of Emporia, KS, and Dal (Diane) Wenger of Topeka, KS; seven nieces and nine nephews; and 16 great nieces, and 10 great nephews.

Visitation will be Friday, April 5, 2019 at the Fairview Community Center from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, April 13, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Church of Christ in Fairview, KS. Casual wear is requested by the family. Private family inurnment will be made in the Mount Hope Cemetery in Hiawatha. Memorial contributions may be made to the Brown County Humane Society, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Alma M. Kramer, 93, of Kelly, Kansas died on April 1, 2019 at Crestview Nursing and Residential Living in Seneca.

Alma was born on November 18, 1925, on a farm south of Kelly to Ferdinand and Dora Haverkamp Steinlage.

Alma grew up south of Kelly and attended School in Kelly; graduating and from St. Bede’s Catholic High School in 1943. After graduating high school, she went to Iowa for few years and was employed as a mid-wife, before returning home to help the neighbors their children and child births.

On June 8 1948, she was united in marriage to Callistus Jacob Kramer at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly, Kansas.  Together they made their home and raised their family on a farm just south of Kelly.

Alma was an active member of the St Bede’s Alter Society.  As a farm wife Alma took care of many daily chores around the farm.  She enjoyed taking care of orphaned calves, many litters of pigs, a flock of chickens and most of all, her six children: Marilyn, Don, Alan, Rose, Bob, and Deann.

Alma’s favorite season was spring and each year she spent countless hours tending her large garden and strawberry patch by the road. She had a green thumb when it came to plants, tree, and flowers.  There was never a visit through spring and summer that you didn’t leave with whatever was being harvested in the garden at the time.  In the fall, you didn’t leave without canned goods.  Alma’s garden never seemed to be a chore, it was what she enjoyed and shared with all. All the grand children had a favorite pie and it was not an unusual visit to grandmas to find that favorite pie on the counter or readily pulled from the freezer.

Most of all, she loved her family and had the blessing to see her six children grow, her 14 grandchildren be born, and 20 great grandchildren join the family.  She loved her church and fittingly enough for Alma Kramer the circle of life was completed from birth to death in this church and on this hill overlooking the world in which she grew up. This was her home and this is where she lived a full life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Cal, on November 3, 1995; a son, Don on March 16, 2014; two son-in-laws, Max Sudbeck on July 8, 2003 and Galen Lackey on December 12, 2012; two grandsons, Jacob on February 19, 1996 and David Lackey on October 3, 2003; by a sister, Lorena Olberding on September 10, 1998; and two brothers, Francis Steinlage on January 15, 2004 and Ronald Steinlage on April 12, 2015.

Alma is survived by her children, Marilyn Lackey of Seneca, Alan Kramer of Goff, Rose Sudbeck of Hiawatha, Bob Kramer of Goff and Deann (Bill) Shields from Colby; her brothers, Norbert and Elton Steinlage both of Kelly; and two sisters, Melita Bodensteiner of Waucoma, IA and Geraldine Kramer of Corning.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM on Wednesday, April 3, 2019 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 AM Thursday, April 4, 2019 at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly.   Burial in the church cemetery.

Memorials are to be to be designated at a later date, and sent in care of the family.
To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

William “Bill” Mortimer McCauley, 98, of Topeka, KS, formerly of Great Bend, passed away Sunday, March 31, 2019 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka. He was born December 26, 1920 in Holton, KS, the son of Mortimer E. and Jeanette (Chrisman) McCauley.

 Bill graduated from Holton High School in 1938. He spent most of his life in Great Bend and moved to Topeka in 2009. He was a civilian with the Signal Corps during WWII. He was a parts manager for Foley Tractor in Great Bend, retiring in 1985.

 He was a member of First United Presbyterian Church and American Legion both in Great Bend. Bill was a Ham Radio Operator; his call letters were W0QGO.

 Bill married Ruth Darlene Spicher on April 13, 1941 in Topeka; she preceded him in death on August 20, 2008. They celebrated over 67 years of marriage. He was also preceded a sister, Lucille Miller and 2 brothers, Russell and Fred McCauley.

 Survivors include his daughter, Melissa Borsick (Robert) of Topeka, KS; 4 grandchildren, Kylie Loupe, Connor Loupe, Holly Betts and Lori Koelsch and 6 great-grandchildren.

  Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 11, 2019 at the First United Presbyterian Church in Great Bend. Burial will follow in the Great Bend Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 7, 2019 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Memorials may be given to the First United Presbyterian Church c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Marilyn Joyce (Moore) Callighan, 82, of Chillicothe, MO died on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at the Liberty Hospital, Liberty MO surrounded by her loving family.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 am on Wednesday, April 3, 2019 at the Heritage Funeral Home, Chillicothe, MO with burial to follow in the Meadville Cemetery, Meadville, MO.  The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Tuesday, April 2, 2019 at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the NWTF-Scott Callighan Memorial or Liberty Hospital Tree House and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, 800 Kansas Ave, Atchison, KS  66002 Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com

Marilyn was born on January 25, 1937 in Hatfield, MO the daughter of Kenneth M. and Lucile (Campbell) Moore. She attended Ridgeway Grade School, high school in Palmyra, MO then graduating from South Harrison High School, Bethany, MO in 1955.  She had worked as a cook for the South Shelby School District and was a homemaker and mother of seven children.  She attended the Trinity United Methodist Church, Brookfield, MO. Marilyn enjoyed sewing, craft work, growing flowers, gardening, baking and was an avid reader. She especially enjoyed her grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

Marilyn was married to Jay Dee Callighan on June 9, 1955 at the Methodist Church in Palmyra, MO.  He preceded her in death on Dec. 5, 2006.  Survivors include three sons, Jay Dee (Gloria) Callighan, Paris, MO, Kenny (Tena) Callighan, Salisbury, MO, and Michael (Amy) Callighan, Norfolk, VA, four daughters, Deborah K (Jim) Bennett, Meadville, MO, Patricia A. (Bryan) Becker, Atchison, KS, Peggy (Steve) Beachum, Norfolk, VA and Cindy Swinarsky, Virginia Beach, VA, a brother, Robert “Bob” (Dee) Moore, Tulsa, OK, and two sisters, Elizabeth (Ed) Carter, Cumberland, IA, and Carol Coulson, Bethany, Mo, Sister-in-law, Jean Moore, Lee Summit, MO, twelve grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews.  Her parents, husband Jay Dee, brother Richard “Dick” Moore, brother-in law, Roger Coulson, and two grandsons, Brandon Bennett and Scott Callighan preceded her in death.

Kenneth "Kenny" L. Sells, 66, of Marysville, Kan., died March 30, 2019 at his home.

Visitation will be Wednesday, April 3, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Kinsley Mortuary in Marysville.

A rosary service will be held at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday at St. Gregory's Catholic Church in Marysville.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 4 at St. Gregory's Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established and will be designated later.  Contributions may be sent in care of Kinsley Mortuary.