Michael James Paulson

October 1, 1953 – June 23, 2020

Michael was preceded in death by his grandparents; brother, Steve Paulson; nephew, Steven “Bubba” Paulson Jr.; uncle, Don Milburn; and other family. He is survived by his wife, Dawn Paulson; children, Jocelyn Paulson and Jillian Paulson; grandchildren, Jordan Williams, Jakobe Williams, Jeveah Young, and Alivianah Schaffart; mother, Ruth Paulson; sisters, Kathi Hyde and Cheri Miller; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family, friends, and teammates.

Michael was a kidney transplant recipient and an active participant on Team Nebraska. He was especially proud of the ballroom dance medal he won at his last Transplant Games. Michael loved nature and visiting the national and state parks. He enjoyed the springtime and being able to watch the cranes. Other outdoor activities he liked to participate in included: football, volleyball, softball, boxing, hiking, spelunking, fishing, hunting, and rafting events. Michael was also a big fan of car racing. He liked to both drive cars in amateur events and watch professional races. He was the proud owner of a ’76 Mustang Cobra.

Michael was an intelligent, educated person, and was a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, the highest leadership fraternity at UNO. While in school, he received a bachelor’s degree in psychology/sociology and later a master’s degree in social work. Most importantly, he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He loved all of his family and friends and enjoyed making memories with everyone.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: 2:00 - 4:00 pm Saturday, July 11, 2020 at Kremer Funeral Home, Omaha, NE

Inurnment will take place on Saturday, July 25, 2020 at 11:00 AM at Falls City Catholic Cemetery with Father Kenneth Hoesing officiating. 

Ethel Gilbert, of Sabetha, died Sunday, June 28 at the age of 84.

Services will be Friday, July 3rd at 11 a.m. at the Sabetha Wesleyan Church.  Burial will be at the Albany Cemetery. 

She is survived by a sister, Betty Lou Kellberger, and her children, Lonnie Gilbert, of Sabetha; Connie Rowland, of Salem, Nebraska; Deborah Hewitt, of Topeka; Robert Gilbert, of Table Rock, Nebraska; Teresa Gilbert, of Topeka; and Gary Gilbert, of Fairview.  She is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 35 great grandchildren.    

Roxie Ellen Stalder, age 91, of Atchison, Kansas, passed away Monday, June 29, 2020, at the Atchison Hospital.

Funeral services will be Thursday, July 2, 2020, at 10:30 A.M. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with Rev. Wendy Zaragoza officiating. Interment will follow in Leavenworth National Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Thursday, one hour prior to the service, from 9:30 until 10:30 A.M. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom care has been entrusted. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Roxie was born on December 31, 1928, in Jacksonville, North Carolina, the daughter of Van and Elizabeth “Betty” (Dixon) Foy. She attended school in North Carolina.

She and Dean Van Houtan were united in marriage on November 2, 1946, and were later divorced; to this union five children were born. She and Elmer Day Stalder, Jr., were united in marriage on March 25, 1972, at the First Christian Church in Atchison, Kansas. Mr. Stalder preceded her in death on March 31, 2015.

Roxie was always a hard worker and started this trait as a young mother as she worked diligently doing laundry out of her home to provide for her family. She began her employment outside of the home in 1965, at Skyway Laundry, she ran the kitchen for years at the VFW Post #1175 and was the supervisor of Laundry at Atchison Medicalodge for over 25 years.

She was a very active member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and also volunteered for the Lunch of Champions at USD #409.

Roxie loved playing BINGO and going out dancing. She would go fishing with her late husband and most of all she enjoyed gambling – St. Joe Frontier Casino was her favorite!

Roxie is survived by her five children, Darrell (Rebecca) Van Houtan, Warr Acres, OK, Karen McGee, Atchison, KS; Leslie (Rosa) Van Houtan, Yukon, OK, Dennis Van Houtan, Atchison, KS, Mark (Cindy) Van Houtan, Yukon, OK; a sister, Edith Swinson, Jacksonville, North Carolina; eleven grandchildren, twenty-two great grandchildren, six great-great grandchildren and a sister-in-law, Phoebe Foy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Elmer Stalder, Jr., her siblings, Eula Barber, Frances Mobley, Exie Bennett, Adrian “Buddy” Foy, and her daughter-in-law, Adella Bierbaum.

Terry Charles Marsh, 82, of Ozawkie, KS, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at his home. He was born May 22, 1938 in Valley Falls, KS, the son of William Raymond and Mary Elizabeth (Simons) Marsh.

Terry graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1956. He proudly served in the United States Air Force beginning in 1956 and retiring after 20 years in 1977 as Tech Sargent during the Vietnam Era. He worked for the Middletown, IN Police Department for 19 years, retiring as Captain.

He was a member of I.L.E.A (Indiana Law Enforcement Assoc.), I.A.C.P (Indiana Assoc. of Chiefs of Police), N.A.C.P (National Assoc. of Chiefs of Police), A.F.N.C.O.A.(Airforce N. Co. Assoc.), N.M.L.R.A. (National Muzzle Loading Rifle Assoc.). Terry was Patron Member and Firearms Instructor Asst. for N.R.A. and former member of American Legion Post 225 in Ozawkie.

Terry married Norma Louise Geyer on October 1, 1960 in Indianapolis; IN, she preceded him in death on May 26, 2017, after over 56 years of marriage. He was also preceded in death by a twin brother, Jerry William Marsh and a sister, Mary Francis Walters in April 12, 2020.

Survivors include 2 sons, Jerry Wade Marsh of Cedar Creek, TX and William A. Marsh of Ozawkie, KS; a daughter, Terri L. Smith (Gordon) of Cicero, IN; 2 sisters, Wilma Nell Schneider of Shawnee, KS and Kathy Irene Langhus of Smithville, MO and 2 grandsons, Cooper and Jack Smith.

A visitation will be 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2020 at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Graveside Services with Military Honors will follow the Visitation at Valley Falls Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the American Legion Post 225 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.

Terry Charles Marsh, 82, of Ozawkie, KS, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at his home. He was born May 22, 1938 in Valley Falls, KS, the son of William Raymond and Mary Elizabeth (Simons) Marsh.

Terry graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1956. He proudly served in the United States Air Force beginning in 1956 and retiring after 20 years in 1977 as Tech Sargent during the Vietnam Era. He worked for the Middletown, IN Police Department for 19 years, retiring as Captain.

He was a member of I.L.E.A (Indiana Law Enforcement Assoc.), I.A.C.P (Indiana Assoc. of Chiefs of Police), N.A.C.P (National Assoc. of Chiefs of Police), A.F.N.C.O.A.(Airforce N. Co. Assoc.), N.M.L.R.A. (National Muzzle Loading Rifle Assoc.). Terry was Patron Member and Firearms Instructor Asst. for N.R.A. and former member of American Legion Post 225 in Ozawkie.

Terry married Norma Louise Geyer on October 1, 1960 in Indianapolis; IN, she preceded him in death on May 26, 2017, after over 56 years of marriage. He was also preceded in death by a twin brother, Jerry William Marsh and a sister, Mary Francis Walters in April 12, 2020.

Survivors include 2 sons, Jerry Wade Marsh of Cedar Creek, TX and William A. Marsh of Ozawkie, KS; a daughter, Terri L. Smith (Gordon) of Cicero, IN; 2 sisters, Wilma Nell Schneider of Shawnee, KS and Kathy Irene Langhus of Smithville, MO and 2 grandsons, Cooper and Jack Smith.

A visitation will be 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2020 at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Graveside Services with Military Honors will follow the Visitation at Valley Falls Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the American Legion Post 225 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.

NAME:   Carolee Harring      AGE:  74   of Falls City, Nebraska. 

DATE & PLACE OF DEATH:   June 27, 2020 at Falls City

DATE & PLACE OF BIRTH:   December 13, 1945 at Troy, KS
PARENTS:   Carl and Mary Rose (Bracken) Shelton

MARRIAGE:   She married Alvin Miner on August 14, 1964 at Blair, KS, they divorced on August 13, 1974. She then married Henry Kendall on August 23, 1987 at Plattsburg, MO, he passed away December 18, 2000 and on July 28, 2005 she married F. Marvin Harring at Falls City, he passed away November 5, 2016.

LIFE HISTORY:
Carolee was raised at Troy, KS and graduated Troy High School in 1964. When married to Mr. Miner the couple established their home in Troy and moved to Falls City in 1987, then to Lincoln in 2012 and back to Falls City in 2015. She had worked at Heartland West Hospital in St. Joseph, MO as a nurse’s Aide for four years before moving to Falls City and then worked at Falls City Care Center and Careage Estates.

ORGANIZATION:
She was a member of First Christian Church. 

SURVIVORS:
Daughters: Georgia (Mark) Beckner of Falls City
                  Gail (Joe) Cluck of Troy, KS
Sons: Jeffery Miner of Lincoln 
            James (Valentina) Miner of Temple, TX
            Christopher (Rebecca) Miner of Fairview Heights, IL
Step-sons: Mikel Jon Harring of Lincolon
                  Eric Dale Harring of Winston Salem, NC
Brothers: Rick (Mary) Shelton 
                Kenny Shelton of Troy, KS
Sisters: Betty Schriner of Lee’s Summit, MO
            Pam (Mark) Lehmer of Mound City, MO
12 grandchildren
5 step-grandchildren
2 great-grandchildren

PRECEDED IN DEATH BY: by her parents and husbands.

FUNERAL SERVICES:  A graveside service will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2020 at 10:00 AM at Steele Cemetery. No viewing or visitation. 

DORR & CLARK FUNERAL HOME, 2303 HARLAN ST.  FALLS CITY, NE. IS IN CHARGE OF ARRANGEMENTS 
 

LaVerne Stolzenberger, 91, of Lamar, Colo., formerly of Sabetha, died on April 22, 2020, at the Prowers Medical Center.

LaVerne was born on July 1, 1928, in Sabetha to Walter Lee and Sara Fern (Hampton) Chase.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Billy Paul Stolzenberger; her parents; brother, Earl Chase; and grandson, J.W. Stolzenberger.

LaVerne is survived by her children, Cheryl (Clinton) Ashley of Lamar, Colo., and William Lee Stolzenberger of Mayetta; grandchildren, Tammy (Gilbert) Herrera, Jeri (Rob) Hernandez, Danny Stolzenberger, Darrell (Jodi) Stolzenberger, Shonda Stolzenberger, Jessie Stolzenberger and Billy Joe (Jessica) Stolzenberger; thirteen great-grandchildren; and twelve great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Marvin (Rosalie) Chase of Kansas City, Kan.; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other family; and a host of friends.

A Celebration of Life Service for LaVerne will be held Thursday morning, July 2, at 10:00 at the Trinity Church of the Brethren, in Sabetha.

A visitation with family will follow from noon to 2:00 at the church.

Donna Jean (Phillippi) Leman, 92, of Sabetha, Kansas passed away surrounded by her family on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at the Apostolic Christian Home.

Donna was born on June 6, 1928 in Brown County to William E. and Isabella Margaret (Babst) Phillippi. She was the youngest in her family, born thirteen years after her sister, Martha LaVaun.

She attended Sabetha High School. While in high school, she played clarinet in the band for four years. She also participated in a clarinet trio, and even had the opportunity to play at state in Lawrence. While in high school, Donna enjoyed spending her time at Sycamore Springs. It was there, she met her future husband, Bill Leman. She graduated from Sabetha High School in 1946.

After high school, Bill returned home from service in November of 1946. Bill and Donna married August 24, 1947 at the First United Methodist Church in Sabetha. John Lukert and Mary McGinty were their attendants. In 1952, they had their first daughter, Shari. In 1955, they welcomed home their second daughter, Cari.

Donna worked at Joe McGenty’s Dodge/Plymouth in Sabetha. Later she worked as a bookkeeper at L&L Pontiac, Leman Pontiac Buick, and finally, Leman Motors. She also belonged to PEO and was a scout leader with June McFall. She participated on the library board, as well as a few church committees. Donna was musically talented, playing multiple instruments and was an avid pianist. In her free time,

Donna enjoyed playing golf. She played for 50 years, picking up the sport around age 30.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill Leman in 2014; her infant granddaughter, Lauren Julia Kuhl in 1982; and her sister, Martha LaVaun Saylor in 2001.

She is survived by her daughters, Shari (Bill) Smith of Merriam, Kansas and Cari (Wes) Kuhl of Parkville, Missouri; her five grandchildren, Emily (Scott) Pope, Chris (Dana) Smith, Justin (Katy) Kuhl, Kaitlin (Drew) Way, and Kristen (Kyle) Harrington; and ten great grandchildren, Ella Pope, Will Pope, and Clara Pope, Lauren Smith, Lauren Kuhl, James Kuhl, Claire Kuhl, Jack Way, Bennett Way, and newest baby Samuel Harrington.

A Private Family Service will be held Thursday, July 2, 2020 at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Viewing will be open to the public on Tuesday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Sabetha or the Mary Cotton Library, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia St., Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Gene Edward (Eddie) Groshong, 57, of Horton, Kansas, was taken to his heavenly home at sunrise on Friday, June 26, 2020 at his mother, Nancy Groshong’s home.

Eddie was born on September 21, 1962 in St. Joseph, Missouri the son of Max and Nancy Polson Groshong. Eddie attended and graduated from Kansas School for the Deaf.

After graduation, Eddie worked side by side with his dad, Max Groshong with running the Olathe Tow Service, specializing with semi- truck towing. They were always together working on cars, painting vehicles, running Groshong Steakhouse, even raising stock cows. Eddie loved the tractor and working outside.

Eddie was married to Brenda and two sons were born from this marriage,Josh Groshong and Danny Groshong. After the marriage dissolved, Eddie moved back to Horton to raise his sons.

Eddie is survived by his mother, Nancy Groshong of Horton, Kansas; son, Danny Groshong of Ellsworth, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his father, Max Groshong, son, Josh Groshong, sister, Tracy Bartley and a brother, Robert Dale Groshong.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 at the Muscotah Cemetery.

Friends may call on Monday at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. Memorials may be made to the Eddie Groshong memorial fund to be designated later and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Nancy S. Painter, 67, of Sabetha, died peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2020, surrounded by her loving family.

Nancy was born on November 1, 1952 in Humboldt, NE, to Walter E. and Ila Mae (Gilfillan) Arnold. She grew up south of Morrill, KS. She attended school in Morrill until her senior year when she transferred to Sabetha High.  After graduation from Sabetha High, she attended Highland Community College and graduated in 1972. Nancy also attended Kansas State University from 1972-73, majoring in Dietetics.

On August 4, 1973, Nancy married Zane M. Painter of Sabetha. They were happily married for 46 years. To this union there were two children, Nicholus and Jennifer.

After having her children, Nancy started back to work in the Sabetha schools as a cook. She loved her job and the children she served for 26 years.

Nancy was also a devout member of Twin Oaks Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Zane; children, Nick (Crystal) Painter of Topeka and Jennifer (Sid) Ewing of Hutchinson;  two granddaughters, Aubrey and Layla of Hutchison; a brother, Dan (Gina) Arnold of Atwater, CA and a sister, Cindy (Phil) Fritz of Verdon, NE; numerous nieces and nephews, along with a host of family and friends.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Twin Oaks Church with Gerald Hervey officiating. Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 30, 2020 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha.  Interment will be at the Albany Cemetery.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Twin Oaks Church or The Sabetha Caring Neighbors Cancer Fund in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia St., Sabetha, KS 66534.

Ali Michele Gildersleeve, 33,of Falls City, passed away June 23, 2020 at Falls City. She was born Feb 12, 1987 at Falls City to Joe and Donna (Larkin) Gildersleeve.

From the day she was born, Ali put smiles on everyone's face she came in contact with. You could not meet Ali and not fall in love with her. Ali was a beautiful young lady, even though she was still a child in so many ways.

Ali loved going shopping, going to the buffet, loved to color and she loved to read her books.  Ali loved to watch her favorite TV shows, "Max and Ruby" and "Rugrats". She loved going to Sonic and getting cheese balls and a bubble gum slush. Ali touched so many lives in her time here. She loved being with her family and was a friend to everyone. Ali taught us that it's the simple things in life that truly matter. She loved wholeheartedly and never knew a stranger. She will be terribly missed and the world is a bit dimmer without her here.

Ali is survived by her parents Joe and Donna of Falls City, brother,  Colton Gildersleeve and his wife Katie of Falls City, Aunt, Debi Johansen of Joplin MO, Uncle, Randy Gildersleeve of St. Joe, MO, nephews Xavier and Baron Gildersleeve of Falls City, Grandparents, Wilfred and Peggy Gildersleeve of Falls City, Viola Schroff of St. Joe MO, special cousin, Heather Mitchell of Joplin MO and Gretchen Courtney and her husband Bobby of Coral Springs, FL, special friends and caregivers, Zach Hall of Falls City, Julie Boatman, of Falls City, Ginger Feek of Falls City, special dog friends, Zelda, Ellie Mae, Siggy, and Royal, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Ali was preceded in death by her grandparents, Don and Janis Larkin

Her memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2020 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Reverend Andrew Chavanak officiating. Inurnment will be in Steele Cemetery.

Open visitation and viewing will begin Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from noon until 5:00 PM.

Please examine the Covid 19 Information tab for further information on attendance. It is located on our home page. We will broadcast the service in the area around the funeral home on 88.7 FM.

Please practice social distancing and masks are recommended.

David G. Gaskell, 96 of rural Horton, died Monday, June 22nd at his home shortly after being diagnosed with bone cancer.

He is survived by two daughters, Sue Jones of Wathena, KS and Wendy Mangin of Vincennes, IN, one son Robert of Horton, KS, and one brother, Jim , of Chanute, KS, 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and close friend Connie Mayfield of Horton.

He was preceded in death by wife of nearly 60 years Gladys in 2008, one daughter, Peggy and one son, Steve, his parents, two sisters, June Duce Lancaster and Olive Amsbury, and three brothers, Paul Roy, Sam and Tom.

David was born Sept. 11th, 1923 at Poplar, Montana to Garfield & Lorena Gaskell, who had moved from Missouri to Montana to homestead a farm in 1916.   Shortly after his birth, and following several drought years, the family returned to Missouri with baby David and his mother riding in a Ford Model T. The family moved to the “Kennekuk” community of rural Horton in 1938 to work a farm and later purchased it. David graduated from Horton High School in 1941. He farmed with his father and brothers. David & Gladys were married in 1948 at Horton. In the 1960’s David and his brother Tom began a welding business, Gaskell Bolt Co., which operated until the early 1990’s.

Following the death of his brother Tom, David and son Robert started up Gaskell Fabricators. David continued to work & weld there until a few weeks before his death. David and wife Gladys both had a passion for serving the Lord Jesus Christ, and were active in the Methodist church and work missions. Brothers David and Tom designed and built some pre-fab metal buildings beginning in the mid-1970’s for churches in Haiti. They, their families, and other folks in the area worked many evenings and Saturdays to put the components together, then shipping it all from Miami, FL by ship to Haiti, then traveling to the country and together with local workers, erected the buildings, many of which still serve Christian communities there. In later years, David and Connie volunteered at the Kabeah Fellowship near Horton, working with children.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date at Horton United Methodist church. A private graveside service is planned. Memorial donations may be made to Horton United Methodist, God’s Mountain Camp of Rushville, MO, or Midland Ministries of St. Joseph, MO, they maybe sent in care of Dishon-Maple Chaney Mortuary who are in charge of arrangements. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com  

Rose Mary Sailors, 61, of Shubert, NE, passed away June 6, 2020 at Lincoln, NE. She was born October 29, 1958 at San Antonio, TX to Francisco and Antonia (Rosales) Rangel.

She married Benjamin Sailors on September 24, 1977 at Fresno, CA.

Rose graduated from Roosevelt High School at Fresno in 1977. When married the couple established their home in Fresno until 1985 when they moved to the Falls City area and then to Shubert in 1995. She was a CNA for many years; working at Northview Care Center and then for Community Medical Center, she then worked in housekeeping at CMC, retiring in 2018. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at Nebraska City.

Rose is survived by her husband, Benjamin, Sr. of Shubert, children, Melissa Licon and her husband John of Harrisburg, PA, Katie Montgomery of Mayetta, KS, Benjamin, Jr. of Harrisburg, Jonathan of Omaha, father, Francisco Rangel of Fresno, brothers, Frank and his wife Danette, Roy and his wife Rose both of Fresno, sisters, Jane Hardcastle and her husband Andy, Lizzy Terry and her husband Robert, twin sister, Mary Mosqueda all of Fresno and grandchildren, Layla and Austin Licon and Jeffery Montgomery. She was preceded in death by her mother, son-in-law, Jeremy Montgomery, brother, Frankie and sister, Isabelle Rangel.

Her funeral will be held on Friday, July 3, 2020 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. Interment will be in Harris Cemetery.

Brian Kirk Gaskell, 41, of Houston, TX, passed away on June 7, 2020. He was born on September 11, 1978 in Hiawatha, KS. Brian grew up in Horton, KS. He attended Horton High School for 3 years before completing his GED and diploma as an adult. He spent several years traveling and working. He attended Stephen F. Austin in Nacogdoches, TX for 2 years before moving to Beaumont, TX. Brian later moved to Houston, where he has resided for the past 10 years.

Brian loved music. He was an extremely hard worker. He enjoyed helping others, including any stranger. He was a loyal fan of the KC Royals and KC Chiefs. Brian was a Christian. His honest and caring personality was a true testament of his faith.

He is survived by a daughter, Serena Gaskell of Lawrence, KS; his parents, Tim Gaskell of Muscotah, KS and Jerry and Michelle Williams of Nacogdoches, TX.; sisters, Karen (Eric) Williams of Holton, KS. Jane (Patrick) Sheeran of Kingwood, TX, Amy (Jacob) Thompson of St. Marys, GA and Shalen (Shall-Lin) Williams of Lawrence, KS. He is also survived by his grandfather, Jerry Daniels of Port Orange, FL. Brian had six nephews and three nieces. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM on June 27, 2020 at the Kennekuk Cemetery near Horton, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the Northside Twenty-four Hour Club, 87 Lyerly St. Houston, TX 77022 or to Brian’s daughter via the following link: https://tinyurl.com/y75ksla5 .

Robert Paul "Sonny" Ross, 86, of Horton, Kansas, formerly of Ohio, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2020 at his home, in Horton, Kansas.

He was born on April 8, 1934 in Van Wert, Ohio, the son of Lorentus Paul and Bertha Irene Vogt Ross. Robert worked as a mechanic for Pike County Highway Department for years, until he retired. Sonny loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, fishing, hunting, playing cards and going to the casino's. On September 21, 1952 he married Norval Combs on September 21, 1952 in Cadue, Kentucky.

Survivors include his wife, Norval Ross of the home, Horton, Kansas; daughter, Judy (Marvin) Stone of Horton, Kansas (Mike & Krissy Stone, Jeremy & Nicola Stone and Melissa; son, Alden (Marjorie) Ross of Robinson, Kansas (Bobby & Clarissa Ross and A.J. & Brooke Ross; son, David Ross of Horton, Kansas (D.J., Sarah & Brett and Angelina); son, Timmy Ross of Sinking Spring, Ohio (Crystal & Nick and Elizabeth & Harry); daughter, Cindy (Rick) Rumfield of Hillsboro, Ohio (Candy & William, Cecelia and Christina & Matt); daughter, Brenda (John) Calhoon of Atchison, Kansas (Daris & Lacey Calhoon, Collin Calhoon and Carlee & Wyatt); daughter, Linda Koelliker of St. Joseph, Missouri (Chris, Matt and Shauna & Levi); daughter, Teresa (Jamie) Quinn of New Vienna, Ohio (James and Tiffany & Chris); daughter, Penny (Ted) Carter of Hillsboro, Ohio (Ashley, Brandon and Dawson); thirty one great grandchildren; three brothers, Toby (Sandra) Ross and Otis (Sandra) Ross both of Tennessee and Lorentus (Cleo) Ross of Florida; sister, Barbara Alcantara of Michigan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, James Ross and three sisters, Delores Hagler, Sylvia McCoig and Margaret Swift.

Services will be held in Ohio at a later date. With burial at the Washburn Cemetery in Latham, Ohio. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

David Roy Baum, 55, of Holton, KS passed away Sunday, June 21, 2020 at his home with family by his side. David fought a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born January 15, 1965 in Topeka, KS, the son of Robert Phillip and Carol Ann (Finn) Baum.

David graduated from Holton High School in 1983 and also attended Washburn University and Emporia State University. He was a Contact Representative for the VA Hospital in Topeka. He had also sold insurance for Farm Bureau Insurance, was a caregiver at Developmental Services and was co-owner of Baum Arms Division/J & L Pawn all in Holton.

He was a member of the First Christian Church in Holton and NRA.

David married Pamela Renee Flewelling on August 10, 2012 in Holton. She survives of the home. Other survivors include his mother, Carol Baum of Holton; step-son, Dean Aydlette of Houston, TX; step-daughter, Caycey Wamego (Derek) of Topeka, KS; 2 bothers, Scott Baum (Susan) of Holton, KS and Mike Baum (Ranae) of Topeka, KS; 2 grandchildren, Ellie and McKynzie; 5 nieces and nephews, Mason, Spencer, Regan, Jacob and Zack Baum.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert “Bob” Baum on April 1, 2016.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Holton Community Hospital Hospice or CHCS-Holton Family Health Clinic (for cancer patients with un-met needs) 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 D”, Mary Louise (Slayton) Dornes, 93, died peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2020 at the Sabetha Manor.

She was born on October 19, 1926 on the family farm near Salem, Nebraska to L.W. and Martha (Fisher) Slayton.

She was united in marriage to Charles H. Dornes in October 29, 1944. Two children were born to this union, Daniel Dornes and Bonita (Bonnie) Hanni, seven Grandchildren and nine Great-Grandchildren. Charles died on April 22, 2007.

She owned and operated the historical Sycamore Springs Resort from 1949 to 1966, a public skating rink, swimming pool and camping grounds.

She owned and operated Mary D Dress Shop in Sabetha for 17 years. A tradition began when friends and customers would gather for coffee on Monday mornings. If you were looking for someone you could leave a message with Mary D. After she retired, she continued this coffee tradition for many years in her home. Celebrations, holiday parties, and newcomers to town, were all a part of these gatherings.

Her group of friends formed the “Hysterical (not Historical) Society” who supported each other through happy and sad times in all of their lives and had fun along the way.

She was active in Rock Creek Church of the Brethren; a member of PEO; active with Sabetha Chamber; bowling and golf leagues, playing bridge, collecting antiques, and many other creative projects. She loved traveling to Santa Fe, NM and went on many trips and cruises with friends.

Mary D was preceded in death by her parents; and granddaughter, Amy Jo Dornes in 1979.

Survivors include her son, Dan (Mary F.) Dornes of Sabetha, KS; her daughter, Bonnie Hanni of Lawrence, KS; six grandchildren, David (Delfina) Dornes of Alton, IL, Kevin (Leah) Dornes of Olathe, KS, Melissa Dornes of Sabetha, KS, and Brad (Kate) Dornes of St. George, KS, Jody (Randy) Becker of Corning, KS, and Sam (Sarah) Hanni of Overland Park, KS; nine great-grandchildren, Daxter Dornes, Danica Dornes, Olivia Sharrai, Lyle Dornes, Kennedy Becker, Raegan Becker, Matthew Hanni, Alexandra Hanni, and Scarlett Hanni.

Graveside Services will be Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Sabetha Cemetery. Mary will lie in state Tuesday morning from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. The family will greet friends from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sabetha Manor, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Gerald Eugene “Fed” Rosenberger, 86, of Highland, with family by his side, passed away peacefully at his home, Friday afternoon, June 19, 2020.

Fed, as he was known by family and friends, was born September 12, 1933, one of four children of Edgar and Ruby Hopper Rosenberger, on the family farm near White Cloud.  Fed was a lifelong resident of this area where he attended country schools, Hilltop Grade School, Martin School, before graduating from Reserve High School with the class of 1951.  He served with the Kansas Army National Guard, from 1955 until 1959, discharged at the rank of SP2. 

He was born a farmer, was a good steward of the ground all of his life, worked with his Dad, with his son and later with his grandson  before retiring in 2019 after 69 years under his care.

He was a member White Cloud Christian Church, the Kennel Club, and Saddle Club, both of White Cloud.  He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, and the Order of Eastern Star Chapter 233.  Fed was quite a guy, was always very friendly, personal, and always had a story to tell.  Most importantly, he loved to have fun.  He enjoyed fishing, hunting, trapping, and watching his great-grands.  He loved to mow, and was doing so up to two weeks ago. He said when someone went check on him while mowing he said “I hope there are sunflowers and corn knives in heaven.”

Gerald married Patricia Idol at Manhattan Bible College April 28, 1951.  They have made the Highland community their home for last 44 years.  Patty Ann survives of the home.

Also surviving are his children Randall Rosenberger (Delinda) of Atchison, Dedra Bunck (Bob) of Everest, grandchildren: Branson Rosenberger (Terri) of Troy, Nikia Weber (Jeff) of Atchison, Lindsey Miller (Tyler) of Wathena, Bobbie Ann Jacobson  (Charlie) of Towanda, KS,  Brice Bunck (Allison) of Topeka, Bailey Lanter (Michael) of Everest, great-grandchildren include Cassidy and Caden Rosenberger, Griffin and Emerson Weber, Bryer, Brailee, Bentlee, and Barrett Miller, Spencer Rose, Eli, Brett Violet and Duke Jacobson, Cole, Tenley, Creighton, and Sawyer Bunck, Tiffin and Beckett Lanter.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Melvin Rosenberger, two sisters:  Barb Gurwell, and Betty Dunn.

Friends may call at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland Monday after 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday.

Services are planned for 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 23, at the Doniphan West High School Gymnasium, with Don Harter officiating.  Masonic Committal Service and Military Honors will be conducted.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fed & Pat Rosenberger Scholarship Fund, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, PO Box 33, Highland 66035.

SOCIAL DISTANCING SUGGESTED AND MASKS ARE OPTIONAL

Robert D. Hicks, 68, of Everest, Kansas made his journey to heaven on Tuesday, June 16, 2020.  Robert was born on July 1, 1951 in Millington, TN, the son of Harold Robertson Hicks and Novalene (Marvin) Roberts.

Robert married Betty Seyler “My Betty” on June 5, 1970 in Tacoma, WA. Together they had three children, Dale, Christie and Mindy. Before he passed, Robert celebrated his 50th year of marriage with Betty surrounded by his family and friends, all of whom he cared for intensely. He served in the U.S. Army from 1971 to 1973.

After his discharge, he continued his work for the U.S. Postal Service. In 1981, he was the youngest fleet manager in the United States. He retired as Manager of Fleet Operations in Shawnee Mission, KS after 41 years of service in the Spring of 2009.

Survivors include his wife, Betty J. Hicks of the home, Everest, Kansas; son, Robert “Dale” Hicks Jr. (Laura) of Thousand Oaks, CA; daughters, Christie (Corey) Moman, Everest, KS; Mindy Hicks, Everest, KS; three brothers, Harold “Devon” (Jackie) Hicks, Fox, AK; Alan (Judy) McDivitt, Florence, SC; Charles “Skip” (Terri) McDivitt, Baton Rouge, LA; and a sister, Sherie (Logan) Ragan, Leavenworth, KS; 5 grandchildren, Taylor Moman, Amber (William) Caldwell, Trevor Walkup, Jackson Moman and Hadley Moman.  He was preceded in death by his parents and step father Marvin Roberts.

Robert enjoyed taking care of his family and friends through hospitality whether through a meal or swimming in his pool. Those who knew him always felt welcome because he was sure to let you know “You can’t wear out my water.” Robert saw value where others did not. He drew satisfaction knowing if there was something you needed, he would most likely have it in every color and size and know just where to find it. He taught us all that everything has its place and how to see value in the little things, whether it be a replacement hose fitting that allows you to finish your yardwork or a short conversation about where the best burger comes from that turns into a memory. Every time we find ourselves in an instance that at first seems inconsequential, we’ll remember Robert. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.. but if you do, name it after me.”

Graveside services will be at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, June 26, 2020 at the Horton City Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Robert Hicks memorial fund to be designated later and may be sent in care of the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com
 

Keith F. Keo, 88, of the Kickapoo Reservation, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at his home.

He was born on October 4, 1931 on the Kickapoo Reservation, the son of David and Mildred Anderson Keo.  Keith married Aileen Wahwassuck and they later divorced he then married Nellie Cadue they also later divorced.

Keith was a farmer and was instrumental in starting the Kickapoo Tribal Farm with cattle and buffalo, on the Kickapoo Reservation. He was a member of the Kickapoo Tribe, served on the tribal council as chairman, worked with the housing authority, loved Pow-Wow's, singing and the Royals.

Survivors include two daughters, Dorene Keo of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Maureen Keo of the home, on the Kickapoo Reservation; three sons, Rudy Keo of the Kickapoo Reservation, Dennis Keo of Fort Totten, North Dakota and Ronald Keo of the Kickapoo Reservation; brother, James Keo of Horton, Kansas; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, son, Jackie Keo and brother, Theodore Masquat.

Drum Services will be at 6:00 P.M. on Saturday, June 20, 2020 at the Kickapoo Community Building on the Kickapoo Reservation. Burial will be at 7:00 A.M. on Sunday morning at the Anderson-Negonsott Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation.

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

Paul Sells, 73, of Falls City, passed away June 18, 2020 at Falls City. He was born November 26, 1946 at Falls City to Clifford and Ruth (Majerus) Sells.

He married Sharon Huppert April 25, 1968 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

He was called to active duty on May 13, of 1968 and he was honorably discharged from active duty on August 20, 1969 and served with the Kansas National Guard the remainder of his obligation.

Paul was raised in Brown County Kansas and graduated Reserve High School in 1964. Following graduation he enlisted in the Kansas National Guard. His unit was activated to active duty in March of 1968 and returned in 1969. Following his service he farmed with his father, then worked at the Rulo COOP and then took employment with the City of Falls City as a heavy equipment operator, retiring in 2001. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Falls City Honor Guard and American Legion Post 102.

Paul is survived by his wife, Sharon of Falls City, daughters, Kelli Maas and her husband Don of Omaha, NE, Kerri Egner and her husband Rick of Lincoln, NE, son, Anthony and his wife Tracey of Lincoln, brother, Jack and his wife Frances of Rulo, sisters, Shirley Gormley and her husband Joe of Hiawatha, KS, Margaret Sutherland and her husband Archie of Troy, KS, grandchildren, Ethan Maas, Connor and Sydney Sells. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-laws, Edward, Jr. and Delmond Huppert.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 22, 2020 at 10:30 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Lawrence Stoley officiating. Interment will be in Falls City Catholic Cemetery. Military graveside honors by Falls City Ceremonial Honor Guard.

Funeral mass will be broadcast live on Sts. Peter and Paul’s Facebook page.

Public is invited to attend but please use the social distancing rules.

Parish Rosary to be recited on Sunday at 5:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Elva Lorene “Sis” McConnell, 101, of Robinson, died Monday evening, June 15, 2020, at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha where she had made her home for several years.

Sis was born in Robinson, December 3, 1918, one of six children born to Squire and Della Garner Watson.  One might say she didn’t venture too far from home as she lived in Robinson her entire life.  Sis was a homebody, was very friendly and personal, but just enjoyed being at home and to her self.  

Elva married Thomas McConnell, February 4, 1943 in Hiawatha while he was on leave from the service during WW II.  After he was discharged they lived in Robinson where he worked for the railroad and many times through the years, she would travel and stay with him as they had a ‘boxcar’ on site for them to stay in Being a homebody, she enjoyed cooking, and he enjoyed eating.   That being said, that was the only ‘travel’ they ever done together. He died July 26, 2004.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, a sister, and four brothers.

Survivors include four nieces and their families.

Services are planned for 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.  Adam Claxton officiating.  Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, Robinson.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 10 until 5 p.m. Tuesday.  The family will meet with friends starting at 1:30 p.m.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Maple Heights Activity Fund sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

A special message or remembrance may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com    Refer to live services at the funeral home Facebook group page:  Chapel Oaks Hiawatha & Highland KS.

Cookie Kovar (76), passed away June 12, 2020.  Cookie was born in Atchison, KS on October 15, 1943, to Hamilton “Hamp” and Barbara Rolfes Cook.  She was raised in Weston, MO.  After her 1961 graduation from West Platte High School in Weston, she was employed by the defense storage facility in the caves south of Atchison.  She worked for several defense contractors for nearly 40 years before her retirement in the late 1990s.

Those who knew Cookie understand there is absolutely no way to capture her one-in-a-million personality in any obituary. Wonderful, kind, loving, feisty, stubborn as a mule, candid and funny could be used to describe her.  For certain, she was a kind and compassionate person who was generous to a fault.  She helped anyone she thought needed it.

Cookie was a lover of life and pursued many adventures.  She became a licensed pilot in middle age and very much enjoyed being a member of the Ninety-Nines, Inc. International Association of Women Pilots. She volunteered at the Amelia Earhart Birthplace and was a co-founder of the Birthplace docent program.  She also was a Birthplace tour leader and board member.  She jumped from an airplane and learned to ski and was a member of the National Ski Patrol in 1989.

Upon retirement Cookie lived a short time with her daughter on the east coast before pursuing her next adventure as a caretaker for an elderly woman in Connecticut. She traveled extensively and made friends wherever she went.

She would readily tell her friends her greatest accomplishment was raising a daughter to be an independent and capable woman just like herself.  Indeed, she was a loving Mother who never hesitated to offer guidance, whether one liked it or not.

She is survived by her daughter, Carrie Kovar, Ashburn, VA, one brother Jim (Debbie) Cook, Rushville, M0, sisters Barbara Ann Huffman, Stanberry MO and Margaret (Lee) Smith, St. Joseph, MO, numerous nieces and nephews, and by her treasured group of girl friends from West Platte 1961.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Hamp and Barbara Cook, her brother Thomas Cook, sister Georgia Gray, nephew Thomas Cook, Jr., and niece Marguerite Holtz Marion.

A graveside service will be held July 8 at 11:00 am, Sugar Creek Cemetery, Rushville, MO.  All friends are invited to attend.  Memorial contributions in Cookie’s name may be made to the Benedictine Sisters of Mount Saint Scholastica, Maur Hill - Mount Academy, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Final care has been entrusted to the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Roger K Allen, of rural Fairview, was born July 31, 1938 to Lynn and Teresa Allen in Oneida, Kansas. He was welcomed home to Jesus on June 17, 2020 surrounded by the love, songs and prayers of his wife, Jean and their family.

Roger grew up in Oneida, Kansas with his four brothers, two sisters and loving mother and father. He attended Oneida school where he met Jean in seventh grade and their love story began. They attended school and church together until Jean moved to Denver, Colorado. At the end of his junior year, Roger got on a bus and moved to Denver to be with Jean. He lived with her grandma until they were married in December of 1956.

Roger began his career as a welder at Midwest Steel in Denver, Colorado. After welcoming their three children over 8 years, their family moved to Kansas. Roger worked for Wenger’s in Sabetha, Kansas for more than 30 years.

Roger enjoyed being a pilot for many years, making people laugh, and sharing the love of Christ with everyone he met.

Roger and Jean had the gift of hospitality. Even in the most difficult times, their home was a welcoming place for family, friends, missionaries, evangelist, musicians and you.

Roger was on call to be with family and friends in times of need. He would quietly come along side with strength and comfort. He was known as the person you always wanted there in life’s most challenging moments.

He is survived by his wife Jean; children, Rhonda (Don) Wikle, Rick (Kristi) and Ryan (Paula) Allen; siblings Shirley, Karen, and Bob Allen; grandchildren, Celeste (Casey) Votruba, Nicole (Hunter) Feltes, Skylar Wikle, Ashley (Nathan) Aucker, Kody Allen, Kayla (Tim) Rotola, Brett (Ellie) Allen, and Konnor (Kaitlyn Adams) Allen. He is also survived by 18 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Vaden, Jerry, and Max Allen, brother-in-law, Kendall Hewitt, two nieces and a nephew.

Calling hours will be held at Crossroads Wesleyan Church in Sabetha on Sunday, June 21 from 5-8pm.

A service to celebrate Roger’s life will be held at Crossroads Wesleyan Church on Monday, June 22 at 10am. It will be broadcast on the Crossroads Wesleyan Church Facebook page.

We respectfully ask that you practice social distancing during the visitation and service. Masks are also encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Roger’s Dream Crossroads Wesleyan Church, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

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

Service may be viewed live on the group Facebook page: Chapel Oaks Hiawatha & Highland Ks

My Mama, our two son’s Nan (as they called her) and our 3 grandchildren’s Great Nanny, passed away peacefully at Maple Heights Nursing & Rehabilitation Center on Tuesday, June 16, 2020.

Mary Lee Ulsh was born August 29, 1931, one of two children born to Ted and Alice (Foster) Main.  She grew up in St. Joseph, MO and graduated from Lafayette High School.  

She married Don Ulsh on December 20, 1952 after his return from Korea in 1951.  They eloped and were married in Industrial City, MO in what turn out to be the biggest blizzard of that year.  From this union came a daughter, Karla.

Mary Lee and Don owned and operated NAPA Auto Parts serving Hiawatha and Sabetha for over 40 years, where she loved interacting with all of the shop guys and customers. 

She was known for her sharp tongue, her crazy sense of humor, and wearing her feelings on her sleeve.  She was also known to have a “Lead foot” while driving, receiving two speeding tickets in the same day from the same officer. However, her biggest joy in life were her two grandsons, Jeb and Gabe.  Every single second she spent with them gave her so much happiness.  Her main hobby was crocheting, making beautiful baby blankets for many babies born in the county and elsewhere.

Mary Lee was preceded in death by her husband Don; her sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Don Estes; her parents, Ted and Alice Main.

Survivors include:  daughter Karla (Dennis) Harter, Hiawatha, two grandsons Jeb (Zukeika) Harter, Woodbridge, VA; Gabe (Amanda) Harter, Garden Plain, KS; three great-grandchildren:  Kinley, Grayson, and Graham; niece Kristy (Bob) Plummer, Olathe, KS

Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. with the service to follow at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 20, 2020 at  Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.  Interment to follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Haiwatha.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Brown County Humane Society or to Karla’s Diaper Closet in care of the funeral home, 124 7th St., 66434.

A special message or remembrance may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com    Refer to live services at the funeral home Facebook group page:  Chapel Oaks Hiawatha & Highland KS.

Janet Burnsides, 84, Mound City, Missouri, passed away Monday, June 15, 2020. 
    She was born November 17, 1935 in Corning, Missouri.
    Janet married Billy Burnsides March 9, 1957; he survives of the home.
    She was a 1953 graduate of Craig High School and graduated from Gard Business School. Janet worked at Quaker Oats and later at The Exchange Bank where she retired after 26 years.               
    She was an active member of First Christian Church, was an avid gardener, and loved to travel. More than anything, she loved to spend time with family. Janet was a beautiful singer and was a member of The St. Joseph Sweet Adeline’s and The Omega Club. 
    She was preceded in death by her parents, Irven and Fern (Sanders) Allan.
    Survivors include her husband of 63 years, Bill; daughters, Cheri Patterson (Bill), Annette Burnsides (Joe Waldman), Nina Norton (Brad), Lori Dryer (Mark); 6 grandchildren, Mackenzie Montag, Kaitlynn and Cameron Norton, Morgan, McCain, and Marin Dryer; sister, Shirley Dougherty; brother, Stanley Allan, extended family and friends.
    Private Farewell Services First Christian Church, Mound City, Missouri. Inurnment Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 2:00 to 4:00 P.M. Saturday, First Christian Church, Mound City, Missouri. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to First Christian Church, Mound City, Missouri. Online guest book and obituary at www.pettijohncrawford.com. 

Frank “Pete” Mendez, Jr., 89, of Hiawatha, died early Tuesday morning, June 16, 2020, at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha.

Funeral Service will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 20, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.  Father Dan Gardner will officiate.  Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Friday.

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

Pete was born March 18, 1931 in Hiawatha, the son of Francisco and Trinidad Pantoja Mendez and was a lifelong resident of Hiawatha.  He grew up here where he attended school.  Pete worked for the Missouri Pacific Rail Road for 22 years before operating his own trash and tree service for 22 years before retiring.  He enjoyed staying close to home, working in his yard and watching over his pets.  He also enjoyed socializing with family and friends.

Pete married Carol Joan Welsh in 1950.  Together they had five children before they divorced.

Survivors include his children:  Mike Mendez (Janet) of Basehor, KS, Randy Mendez of Hiawatha, Tyrone Mendez, Cynthia Lehew (Greg) of San Tan Valley, AZ, with 15 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.  The family would also like to recognize Rita Soden, as she was a big part of Pete’s life caring for him and her visits at Maple Heights.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sons: John Mendez, Ray Mendez, a brother Joaquin Mendez, two sisters Augustina Joslin and Mary Baker.

A special message or remembrance may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com    Refer to live services at the funeral home Facebook group page:  Chapel Oaks Hiawatha & Highland KS.  SOCIAL DISTANCING AND FACE MASKS ARE REQUIRED.

The family would like to thank Maple Heights Nursing Home and Freedom Hospice for their many acts of kindness.

Gary Lynn “Devo” Davis, 64, Mound City, Missouri, passed away peacefully in his sleep Monday, June 15, 2020.  
    He was born to Luther and Ruby (Dwyre) Davis, Jr. on March 21, 1956 in St. Joseph, Missouri. Gary was a lifetime resident of Mound City, Missouri. He attended Mound City School District from 1st grade until graduation in 1974. He was passionate about playing baseball as a side arm pitcher and an avid coin collector.
    Gary worked several jobs, Bowers Grocery Store, Beef Packers in Watson, Missouri, Skullkill in Forest City, grounds keeper in Mound City, Rockport, and St. Joseph Country Club. His final job was “playing with dolls”, as he would say, as a merchandiser for National Entertainment Network for 14 years before his health prevented him from working.
    Gary was a member of Mound City United Methodist Church.
    On December 27, 1987 Gary was united in marriage to Debra Lieneman. Through this marriage they had 2 children, many cats and dogs. 
    He was preceded in death by his father, Jr. Davis and beloved dog, Midnight.
    Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Debra Davis; children, Kyle Davis (Lauren Mize), Kelsey Davis; foster daughter, Jazmine Knox; mother, Ruby Davis; brother, Richard Davis (Phil Rhein), extended family and friends.  
    Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Friday, Mound City United Methodist Church. Interment Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, Pettijohn & Crawford Family Funeral Service. In lieu of flowers the family suggest donations to the funeral home to defray funeral expenses. Online guest book and obituary at www.pettijohncrawford.com. 

James “Jim” M. Jones, 76, of Humboldt, Nebraska was born on November 4, 1943 to Montra and Dorothy (Tacha) Jones in Oberlin, Kansas. He was baptized early in his life in the Methodist faith and attended school in Jennings, Kansas.  Jim later graduated from Jennings High School with the class of 1962.  On November 4, 1975, Jim was united in marriage to Janiece Hanna.  The couple lived near Kearney, Nebraska where Jim farmed and worked for Eaton’s Corporation.  While living in Kearney, Jim was a member of the Sons of the American Legion.  After retiring in 2001, Jim and Janiece moved to Humboldt, Nebraska to be closer to family.  While living in Humboldt, Jim enjoyed gardening, spending time on his tractor and attending his grandkids activities, especially ball games and programs.  In his spare time, he helped with the Southeast Nebraska Cancer Garden and the Humboldt Auditorium.  Jim was a loving husband, father and grandfather who loved John Deere tractors and visiting with friends, family and neighbors.
 
Jim passed away peacefully on Monday, June 15, 2020 at his home in Humboldt, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of seventy-six years, seven months and eleven days. He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother Jay Jones and grandson George “Boomer” Shewey.
 
Jim is survived by his loving wife Janiece Jones of Humboldt; daughters: Jamie Chapman and husband David of Hoxie, KS; Kathy Curfman of Humboldt, Veronica Tomasello and husband Fred of Newton, KS; a brother John Jones and wife Mickie of Hutchison, KS; 9 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.
 
A Private Family Graveside Inurnment will be held at the Jennings Cemetery in Jennings, Kansas at a later date.
 
Visitation will be held from 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2020, at The Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska.
 
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the family with a later designation.
 
Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com
 
Wherry Mortuary- 207 N. Nemaha Street- Humboldt, Nebraska 68376 (402) 862-2915
 

Rick Kearney, 66, of Falls City, NE, passed away June 14, 2020 at Falls City. He was born October 27, 1953 at Nebraska City, NE to Harold and Margaret (Crawford) Kearney.

He married Teresa Marx on June 27, 1981 at Falls City. They divorced in 1990.

Rick was raised at Nehawka, NE and graduated Falls City High School in 1973. Following graduation he worked for Bob Frederick farming. He then took employment with Scheitel Feed and Seed and worked over 30 years there until working at Salem Grain. He retired in 2016. He enjoyed taking care of his grandchildren. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

Rick is survived by his children, Stephanie Kearney and Jeremy Kearney and his wife Taylor both of Falls City, brother, Harley of Sioux City, IA, sisters, Cherie Talbot and her husband Brent of Leyton, UT, Linda Ried and her husband Roy of Omaha, NE, Peggy Hobscheidt and her husband Don of Syracuse, NE and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, June 19, 2020 at 10:30 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Lawrence Stoley as the presiding priest. Inurnment will be in Falls City Catholic Cemetery.

A Parish Rosary will be recited on Thursday, 7:00 PM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

JoAnn (Zink) Hofstra age 85, Valley Falls, died Sunday, June 14th, 2020. She was born November 30, 1934 at Leavenworth, the daughter of Emery and Letha (Sales) Zink. She attended Leavenworth High School and participated in the marching band, graduating in 1952. After graduation, she began working for the Red Cross in Leavenworth.

JoAnn married Ed Hofstra Jr. on June 2, 1957, in Leavenworth, and became a Navy fighter pilot’s wife. They raised a family while moving all over America, mostly on the West and East coasts. In 1974, Captain Hofstra retired from the Navy, and the family moved back home to Kansas, buying a farm near Valley Falls. The Hofstra’s became members of Calvary Baptist Church, and JoAnn was active as the church organist and treasurer. She also typed up the church bulletin every week. JoAnn loved the Lord.

In 1977, she started working for Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Topeka, eventually becoming the Administrative Assistant to the Vice President. She made many friends and considered BC/BS her second family. Upon her retirement in 1997, she was active in BC/BS retiree luncheons and get-togethers for many years to come.

Ed passed away in 2006 and JoAnn continued living at the home. She had family support and wonderful neighbors she could always count on. Thanks to all of you. JoAnn was preceded in death by a half-sister, Lorraine Orlowski, Leavenworth. She is survived by her son, Nathan (Kayla) Hofstra, Ozawkie; and two daughters, Marilee (Dennis) Gordinier, Ozawkie; and Becky (Tim) Crouch, Independence Mo.; Eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will at 11:00 A.M. Friday, June 19, 2020 at Calvary Baptist Church in Valley Falls. Visitation will be 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. at the church. Burial will be at Sunset Memory Gardens in Leavenworth at 1:30 P.M. JoAnn will lie in state at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls 2:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M. Wednesday, June 17, 2020 and 10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. Thursday June 18, 2020. Memorials may be given to Calvary Baptist Church –Valley Falls, 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.

John “Curly” C. Thomas, 94, of Falls City was born on January 12, 1926 to John O. and Mabel B. (Fickle) Thomas in Falls City, Nebraska. He met the lovely Harvina Taft in 1949 and swept her off her feet. The two married on April 24, 1950. They set up home in Falls City just five months before he was deployed for a term of service in the US Army during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in October 1951.  When he returned, John worked maintaining steam engines for the Missouri Pacific Railroad for several years before transitioning to home construction with Frontier Homes. He was employed by the City of Falls City for nine years before he began his final career with the United States Postal Service, from which he retired in 1992. A hard and conscientious worker, John also held part-time positions cleaning and delivering the Penny Press newspaper with his grandson, Dylan.

John enjoyed many hobbies, including collecting coins, antique marbles and baseball cards, and exploring family history and genealogy. A long-time member of the Model A Club of America, John relished restoring original Model A Fords. His three youngest children learned how to drive in his 1929 Model A.

John was a beloved husband, father and grandfather who loved entertaining his grandchildren and great-grandchildren with his lively harmonica playing and singing. He was an avid reader and could often be seen poring over a magazine or newspaper, keeping up-to-date on world events.  John passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Monday, June 8, 2020 at his home in Falls City. He is preceded in death by his parents, a son Phillip Thomas, brothers: Gayle “Kelly”, Ernest “Bud”, Patrick (Joanne), Jerry, Jim and Daniel “Babe” Thomas, sisters: Pearl (Al) Black, Sadie (Shorty) Hunzeker, Maxine Thomas and Janeth “Susie” Stevens.

John is survived by his loving wife Harvina Thomas of Falls City; sons: John Thomas and wife Carol of Lincoln, Pat Thomas of Evergreen, CO; Tom Thomas and wife Lori of Holt, MO; Dave Thomas of Verdon, NE; daughter Annie Frederick and husband Harley of Falls City, and daughters-in-law: Norma Thomas of Falls City, NE; Debra Nelson of Verdon, NE; grandchildren: Jarod (Beth) Thomas, Janson Thomas, Megan (Craig) Niemeyer, Erin Anderson and fiancé Joey Jarred, Mariah Thomas, Dylan (Heather) Frederick, Raven Holmes, Cody (Jacqueline) Frederick, and Jorden (Jenny) Frederick; great-grandchildren: Grace and Charlie Thomas, Talon and Conner Anderson, Ava and Braxton Jarred, Peyton and Cole Niemeyer, Lincoln Frederick, Izaiah Meyer, Zeven Holmes, Collin and Camden Frederick, and Chase Frederick, sisters-in-law: Toni Thomas of Lincoln, NE; Marylin Thomas of Fremont, NE; and many other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2020, at the southeast shelter of Grandview Park, 1001 Wilson Street in Falls City, Nebraska.  Full military honors will be conducted at the park by the Nebraska Army Honor Guard.  Due to Covid 19, only the immediate family of John will be underneath the shelter for the celebration.  All public attendance and other family will be asked to watch the celebration from the park or in their vehicles via the live radio broadcast of FM station 88.7

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2020, at The Hall Funeral Home, 2403 Harlan Street in Falls City, Nebraska.

Inurnment will be at the Steele Cemetery in Falls City at a later date.

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

Condolences can be shared online at www.hallfuneral.net

Hall Funeral Home- 2403 Harlan Street- Falls City, Nebraska 68355 (402) 245-3131

Melvin D. Shupe, 77, of Circleville, KS, passed away Friday, June 12, 2020 at Midland Hospice Care in Topeka. He was born January 23, 1943 at the home of Dr. Forest Kendall in Holton, KS, the son of Oscar Curtis and Lela Frances (Myers) Shupe.

Melvin graduated from Circleville High School in 1961. He worked for 45 years for Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. as a clerk, core driller and surveyor. Melvin was a member of the Circleville Christian Church.

Melvin married Kathren S. Simmons on September 6, 1969 in Circleville. They later divorced in October 1997.

Survivors include his 3 children, Candy Sue Mann (Jim) of Montana, Carmella Kay Campbell (Kevin) of Onaga, KS and Curtis Duane Shupe (AJ) of Lenexa, KS; 2 sisters-in-law, Shirley Shupe and Phyllis Shupe both of Circleville, KS; 7 grandchildren, Gena Sullivan, Frank Balazs, Kipp Shupe (Cassey), D.J. Wheeler (Trevah Moeller), Walker Wheeler, Micheala Shupe and Mackenzie Shupe and 6 great-grandchildren, Nevaeh, Jaxson and Nathan Sullivan, Neveah and Donella Wheeler and McKinley Wheeler.

He was preceded in death by 3 brothers, Marvin Shupe in 1935, Claude Shupe in 2009 and Lester Shupe in 2018.

 Cremation has taken place, per Melvin’s wishes. Private Family Inurnment will be at a later date.

 A register book is available at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Memorials may be given to the Banner Creek Science Center of Observatory 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.

Pennie Lynne Scates, 51, of Falls City, NE, formerly of Hiawatha, passed away June 9, 2020, at University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, KS, after battling sickness since Friday, May 29.

Pennie was born January 2, 1969, in Des Moines, IA, the daughter of Alfred and Gayle (Holtman) Bougher. The family moved to Hiawatha when Pennie was in the 7th grade, and attended Hiawatha schools.  Pennie has lived in Northeast Kansas nearly all of her life.  

She married Louis Scates, July 18, 1987.  They lived most of their married life in Hiawatha. They divorced in 2017 after 30 years of marriage.. In her younger years, she worked at Sonic, Walmart, Hiawatha Home Health, and ran a daycare.  Her health started to decline and she became a stay at home Mom.  Family was always important to her.  Shortly after her divorce, she moved to Falls City to make her home.  

Survivors include a daughter Samantha Scates of Hiawatha, a son Kyle Scates of Falls City, her mother Gayle Barnett of Falls City, stepdad Wesley Barnett of Falls City, a half sister Melissa Bougher of Des Moines, IA, step-sisters:  Vickie Barnett of Hawaii, Toni Lovelady of Hiawatha, Angie Hernandez of St. Joseph, MO, along with numerous other relatives.  Three grandchildren also survive:  Aden Ramirez, Alexis Ramirez and Kameron Scates, along with her dog Max.

Pennie was preceded in death by her father Alfred Bougher, sister Shawna Geniuk, aunt Christie Bagby, uncles:  Lee Holtman, Richard Holtman, and grandmother Sylvia Holtman.

Funeral services are planned for 1 p.m. Thursday, June 18, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home.  Paul Burton will officiate.  Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

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

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

Marilyn Virginia Tilton, 83, of White Cloud, died Thursday evening, June 11, at Vintage Park Assisted Living Apartments in Hiawatha.

Marilyn was born January 13, 1937, at Shubert, Nebraska, one of two children born to Roland and Jane Ellen Vaughn Hunt.

She worked at the laundry in Hiawatha for 13 years prior to working for Flair Fold Wood Fabrication Plant in Hiawatha for a number of years before she quit to be a stay at home Mom. Marilyn was a member of the auxiliary to American Legion Post #154, White Cloud. She enjoyed helping in the kitchen at the Legion when they served dinners, reading, watching TV, and visiting with family and friends.

Marilyn married LeRoy Edward Tilton, June 30, 1956 at Hiawatha. They raised their family at Everest. When they retired they moved to White Cloud to make their home. He died April 15, 2015.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, brother Allen Hunt, and grandson Jeremy Tilton.

Survivors include her children: Barry Tilton (Terry), Jacqueline Edie (Bob), Patrick Tilton (Kim) Michelle Betts (Russ), Carroll Tilton (Joanne), Ronald Tilton (Penny), 18 grandchildren, with numerous great-grandchildren.

The family will meet with friends starting at 10 a.m. Tuesday, at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, in Highland, to go in procession to Iowa Point Cemetery for graveside services at 11. Angie Cluck will officiate.

Friends may call at the funeral home from noon until 6 p.m. Monday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Doniphan County Pet Rescue sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33, Highland 66035.

A note of remembrance may be sent to the family www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Service may be viewed on the group Facebook page: Chapel Oaks Hiawatha & Highland Ks

Carol Beth Sinning was born December 12, 1959 to Ralph and Betty Reichert.  She grew up in Riley, Ks making her home later on in Hiawatha, Ks.  She passed June 10th, 2020, surrounded by her children at her home.  They were there to hold her and witness her last breath.  She lost her fight to cancer at age 60. 

She attended Riley County Schools and later met the love of her life, Glen Albert Bannister.  From this love came four children, Courtney Royal, Russel Joseph, Elisabeth Ann and Michael Joseph.  She was left a widow at the young age of 27.  

She later remarried and added the missing piece to the family, Gabrielle (Katie) Katerina Lierz.

Carol spent her early days in Hiawatha working at RCI, Farm Management, State Farm Insurance, and ending her days as part owner of The Country Cabin. 

She also shared a love and last name with Gary Sinning.  A man that helped her raise children when he didn’t have to.  Even after their divorce, she forever kept an unwavering friendship with him.  

Carol was a woman of boundless energy and a strong sense of duty who believed intensely in the importance of a safe, secure, and happy environment for her family. She taught her kids the true meaning of kindness, love and hard work.  She worked tirelessly to provide these principals and raise her five children.  She worked even harder spoiling her grandchildren.  She wasn’t a grandma to them, she was “Bugga.”  

She had many passions during her life.  Her backyard was a place that started as an empty canvas, but through her vision and hard work, she created a place of magic and joy. For herself and her children, she created a space of peace and happiness where many cups of coffee were shared on beautiful, sunny days. For her grandchildren, she created a world of make-believe, imagination, and simplistic childhood happiness. Every grandchild will forever cherish memories of Farwell, Mert, the hunting lodge, fish ponds, swings, and jungle gyms. Watching her grandkids play brought her the greatest happiness.  

Her children were her biggest and best accomplishment.  She was not only a mom, but a best friend to each of her kids. She sacrificed herself constantly to make sure her children had everything they needed, even well into their adulthood. Even as her health declined, she sought to comfort her children, to protect them, by telling them she couldn’t die because it was blindingly clear that they couldn’t survive without her. And even while sadness and loneliness for their mom sits heavy on their hearts today, her children have promised her to always share her silly stories, carry on her smart ass personality, and always show kindness to others.

Carol was preceded in death by her brother Jeff Reichert, her parents Ralph and Betty Reichert and her husband Glen Bannister. 

She is survived by her children Courtney (Jennifer) Bannister, Rusty (Jolene) Bannister, Lizzie (David) Jackson, Mike (Sarah) Bannister, Katie (Aaron Way) Lierz,

She has passed on her legacy to each of her grandchildren, her greatest joys, Trevor, Gavin, Cooper, Forrest, Khloe, Jaylee, Carter, Mason and Jameson. 

She is also survived by her siblings Connie Brunner, Nancy (Chuck) Frank, Donna (Green) Nanninga, Cathy (Steve) Gabay, Jeff (Trish) Reichert, Ralph Reichert and numerous nieces and nephews.  

A visitation will be held Friday June 12 at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha from 6-8 pm. 

A private/family only ceremony will be held at Carol’s Park on Saturday, June 13th.  

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

Carol was preceded in death by her brother Jeff Reichert, her parents Ralph and Betty Reichert and her husband Glen Bannister. 

She is survived by her children Courtney (Jennifer) Bannister, Rusty (Jolene) Bannister, Lizzie (David) Jackson, Mike (Sarah) Bannister, Katie (Aaron Way) Lierz,

She has passed on her legacy to each of her grandchildren, her greatest joys, Trevor, Gavin, Cooper, Forrest, Khloe, Jaylee, Carter, Mason and Jameson. 

She is also survived by her siblings Connie Brunner, Nancy (Chuck) Frank, Donna (Green) Nanninga, Cathy (Steve) Gabay, Jeff (Trish) Reichert, Ralph Reichert and numerous nieces and nephews.  

A visitation will be held Friday June 12 at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha from 6-8 pm. 

A private/family only ceremony will be held at Carol’s Park on Saturday, June 13th.  

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

 Charlene (Vance) Jorgensen, 89, of Troy, Kansas died Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at her home.

Charlene was born on June 18, 1930 in Kansas City, Missouri to Charles and Goldie Vance.  She lived most of her life in Troy.

Charlene is a member of the First Baptist Church, Troy Lions Club, Garden Club, Historical Society, N.A.R.F.E. all of Troy, and the St. Joseph Bowling League.

She married George Jorgensen, Jr. on October 21, 1950 in Johnson County, Kansas.  He preceded her in death on April 19, 2015.  Charlene was also preceded by her parents, 2 sons; Eric and Dennis Jorgensen and a grandson, Jesse Lee Jorgensen.

Survivors include; son Mark Jorgensen (Loretta) of Leavenworth, Kansas

 Daughter-in-law, Carol Jorgensen of Troy

3 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.

MEMORIAL SERVICE:  Saturday, June 13, 2020 – 11:00 A.M. At First Baptist Church in Troy

Visitation:  family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the funeral at the church (10-11 a.m.)

Memorials: In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to either the Troy Ambulance Fund, God’s Mountain or Midland Ministry

Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Troy in care of arrangements, there will be no public visitation at the funeral home.

   www.harmanrohde.com

Sammie Joe Blanton, 73, of Horton, Kansas, passed away at his home, on Monday, June 8, 2020. He was born on July 3, 1946 in Purcell, Kansas the son of Jessie and Lenora Simpson Blanton.

Sam worked as a custodian for the Horton School system for many years before retiring.  On November 9, 1971 he married Mary LaLond in Otsego, Michigan.

Survivors include three sons, Bill Long of Cameron, Missouri, Chris Long of Horton, Kansas and Louis Blanton of Horton, Kansas; daughter, Pebble Hare of Horton, Kansas; sister, Tammy Stephens of Ottawa, Kansas; six, brothers, Wendell Blanton of Tulsa, Oklahoma, William Blanton of Richmond, Kansas, Howard Blanton of Bartlett, Nebraska, Jack Blanton of Hamlin, Kansas, Frank Blanton of Hiawatha, Kansas and George Blanton of Fairview, Kansas; seventeen grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Mary Blanton, daughter, Mary Haverkamp, son, Sammie Blanton, sister, Shirley Richey and a granddaughter, Ashley Moppins.

Memorials may be made to the Sammie Blanton memorial fund to be designated later and may be sent in care of the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary. Funeral services will be held at a later date. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Arden Fred Bredemeier, 87 of Sabetha, Kansas formerly of DuBois, Nebraska, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 8, 2020.  He was born on November 29, 1933 in DuBois, Nebraska to Frederick Carl and Myrtle (Siske) Bredemeier.
 
He attended Cincinnati grade school from first grade thru 8th grade and then attended Pawnee City High school where he graduated in 1951.
 
After graduation Arden spent 2 years in the Army from 1954-1956. Then came back to DuBois to farm, where he farmed until the retired in 2002.
 
On December 8, 1956 Arden married Jan Wade in Lawton, Oklahoma. To this union four children were born, Steven Mark, Lynne Diann, Rhonda Lee and Bradley Scott.
 
He had affiliation with Church of Christ.
 
He served on the Nemaha Resources District for 20 years from 1972 to 1992.
 
Arden loved Antique John Deere Tractors, tractor pulling and land and water conservation.
 
He was preceded in death by his parents Frederick and Myrtle Bredemeier, and  infant grandson Tyler Dale Roland.
 
He is survived by his wife Jan of Sabetha, KS, children, Steven and wife Melany Bredemeier of Bethany, IL, Lynne Diann Roland of DuBois, NE,  Rhonda and husband Kent Cooper of Humboldt, NE, Bradley Bredemeier of Cushing, TX, 15 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, sisters, Alene and husband Paul Davis of Longview, TX, Elane Burkhalter of Casper, WY, brother Edgar and wife Carolyn Bredemeier of Stella, NE, numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
 
 
Memorial service 10:30 a.m., Saturday, June 13, 2020 at the DuBois Community Building, DuBois, Nebraska.  Visitation on Friday, June 12, 2020 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Inurnment at the DuBois Cemetery.  Memorials to family choice.  Military honors provided by American Legion Chester R. Kerl Post 39 of DuBois and the Nebraska Army National Guard Honor Guard.
 

Rosemary Elizabeth (Small) Medlin, age 95, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2020 at the Hiawatha Community Hospital.

Rosemary was born on January 19, 1925 in Horton, Kansas, the daughter Henry O. Small & Hazel Edith (Sleppy) Small. She graduated from Horton High School, Class of 1943. She worked initially at the Horton Garment Factory. She then married Charles Medlin on May 22, 1949 in Horton, Kansas. They lived in a variety of locations over the years, dictated by his job. They returned to Horton to own & run the Town Cafe for several years.

She enjoyed her work via the Horton Senior Citizen’s Center with the bag mat project, watching the Weather Channel, attending church at Horton United Methodist Church and caring for her doggie friend/companion "Mitzi".

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, son, Charles “Rick” Medlin, brother, Charles Small, sister, Velma (Small) Myers and a friend, Jim Bevans.

Rosemary is survived by her daughter-in-law, Margie Medlin, Houston, Texas, two granddaughters, Shonda Montgomery and Tracy Robison of Chelsea, Oklahoma, great granddaughter, Brittany Massey of Yukon, Oklahoma, a grandsons, Daniel Slaughter & Bill Sartain of Horton, Kansas, many nieces, nephews & friends.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, June 12, 2020 at the Horton Cemetery. Friends may call on Thursday at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Robert Jerome “Bob” Fuemmeler, 70, of Effingham, KS died on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at his home in Effingham. KS.

Private Family Memorial services will be held on Friday, June 12, 2020 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison KS. The body has been cremated. A public Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Knights of Columbus and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences and remembrances to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Robert J. Fuemmeler was born on March 13, 1950 in Malden, MO the son of Frank and Lorretta (Larkin) Fuemmeler. He graduated from Campbell High School in 1969. He served in the United States Air Force during Vietnam. Robert was the owner/operator of Fuemmeler Lumber and Manufacturing. He was a member of St. Ann’s Church, Effingham, KS, and the Knights of Columbus. Robert enjoyed fishing and spending time with his grandchildren.

He was married to Virginia Foley on Jan. 30, 1971. They were later divorced. Survivors include three sons ; Robert (Kelly) Fuemmeler, Troy, KS, Nicholas (Judith) Fuemmeler, Bendena, KS, and Nathan (Karen) Fuemmeler, Troy, KS, three brothers; Jim Fuemmeler, Popular Bluff, MO, Ed Fuemmeler, Glennonville, MO, and Joe Fuemmeler, Rushville, MO, two sisters; Delores Weeks, Campbell, MO, and Carolyn Pospeshil, Cherryville, MO, six grandchildren; Gavin, Eva, Jaxton, Steel, Weston, and Reeves Fuemmeler. His parents, one son Eric M. Fuemmeler, and two sisters; Jeannette Counts and Marie Baker preceded him in death.

Branden Tyler Leupold left this earth to rest easy with his Lord and Savior on June 5, 2020. Branden was born on October 11, 1994 and has been touching the lives of those he came in contact with ever since.

He is survived by his parents, John and Megan Leupold,  sister, Rylee Henningson (Ganon), brother, Camron Leupold, fiancé, Adrianne Darnell, Grandparents: Phil and Mary Dachenhausen, Shyrel Bracken, Bill Leupold (Bonnie), many aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends.

Branden loved the outdoors and had a passion for riding his horses, hunting, fishing, dogs, and spending time with all those he loved. He was blessed with a God-given talent for music, sharing his singing and playing the guitar generously for church, weddings, funerals, family gatherings, and the very best bonfires. He wrote many of his own songs, mostly from his study of scripture and words praising the Lord as well as songs about spending time outside, loving this country, and some were just plain silly. He loved to spend time at our church campgrounds, Camp Farwesta, as a youth camper and once old enough, a camp counselor. This is where he met his love, Ada. Ada and Branden then made their way back to each other as adults and began to be the camp directors as a pair. Branden graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology (with an emphasis Criminology), was an officer in the Kansas National Guard, and was a Kansas Highway Trooper, K143. Everything he did was with passion, dedication, kindness, and the best of character. But mostly love.

A register book will be available to sign at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home on Thursday.

Funeral services will be Friday, June 12, at 10 a.m. at the Leupold’s pond (1341 Sugar Tree Lane, Hiawatha, KS 66434).

Please park at Bruning Park (2100 Apache St).  Bus transportation will be provided starting at 8:30 a.m.

There will be a celebration of life lunch immediately following the service at the Hiawatha Armory (108 N 1st St.)

Memorial contributions are suggested in Branden’s honor to:  Camp Farwesta for youth scholarships and camp care.  Please make checks payable to Community of Christ.
A special message or remembrance may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Jerry Lee Hunzeker, 75, of Humboldt, Nebraska was born on October 9, 1944 in Lincoln, Nebraska.  His parents were Rudolph and Mae (Blecha) Hunzeker.  Jerry was raised on the family farm and attended school in Humboldt. 

He was united in marriage to Linda King and the couple made their home in Humboldt, Nebraska for many years.  Jerry passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2020, at St. Elizabeth's Regional Medical Center in Lincoln, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of seventy-five years, six months and twenty-eight days.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law Larry (Julie) Wright.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife Linda of Humboldt, NE; daughter Teresa Schmoe and husband Darin of Ottawa, KS; brothers-in-law: Roger Wright and wife Sheri of Lincoln, NE; Robert King of Fremont, NE; sister-in-law Diana Sautter and husband Rod of Bruning, NE; and many other relatives and friends.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2020, at the Northridge Community Church in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastors David Lockard and Ryan Weaver officiating.

A register book will be available to sign on Friday, June 12, 2020, at The Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska.

Inurnment will be at The Bohemian National Cemetery south of Humboldt.

Memorial contributions may be given to the family's for designation at a later date.

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

Wherry Mortuary-207 N. Nemaha Street- Humboldt, Nebraska 68376 (402) 862-2915

Amelia Ann (Zimmerschied) Hoffman, 82, of Sabetha, Kansas passed away Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at the Sabetha Manor.

Amelia was born on August 21, 1937 in Sabetha, the daughter of Harry and Thelma (Elliott) Zimmershied. She attended Morrill schools and graduated from Morrill High School with the class of 1956.

Amelia was united in marriage to Melvin Hoffman on November 4, 1955. To this union were born three children. She was a homemaker and also babysat for neighboring families. Amelia was a member of the Morrill Baptist Church, enjoyed square dancing and crocheting. She loved her ten grandchildren and her fifteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her step-father, Lee Shanholz; her step-mother, Gladys Zimmerschied; and her sister, Betty Wilson.

Amelia is survived by her husband, Mel of Sabetha, KS; her daughter, Cindy Feagan (George Johnson) of Sanibel, FL; her sons, Randy (Lynda) Hoffman of Sabetha, KS, and Richard (Lisa) Hoffman of Tecumseh, KS; ten grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, June 13, 2020 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Morrill Community Building in Morrill, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sabetha EMS, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family atwww.popkessmortuaries.com.

V. “Louise” Williams, 68, Atchison, Kansas died Thursday, June 4, 2020 at her residence.

Graveside burial services will be Saturday, June 13, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. at Oak Hill Cemetery with Rev. Paul Kelley officiating. Open viewing will be Thursday and Friday from 9:00 A.M. until 4:00 P.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Louise was born August 29, 1951 in St. Joseph, Missouri the daughter of Eddie Bell and Irene Williams. She attended elementary school in St. Joseph, Missouri and Central High School in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Louise was employed with the Hilton Hotels in Kansas City, Missouri and later with Dairy Queen Restaurant of Atchison and then with Atchison Senior Village in Atchison until her retirement.

Louise enjoyed playing bingo, dominoes, darts and a game of pool in her spare time. She also enjoyed tending her many plants and planting them in her yard, singing, watching television and most importantly spending time with her family and friends. Louise was very well known for her many purchases on QVC home shopping network.

She was an active member of Shiloh Baptist Church of Atchison, Kansas.

Survivors include a son, Darrell Jones, Topeka, KS; three daughters, LaShell (Kirk) Herring, Atchison, KS; Jessica Williams, Atchison, KS; Kenya Sharp, Atchison, KS; three brothers, Eddie Williams, Atchison, KS; Clyde Williams, St. Joseph, MO; and Bruce Williams; two sisters, Frances Hays, Leavenworth, KS; Thelma Williams, Leavenworth, KS; two aunts, Joan Harding, Leavenworth, KS; Bonnie Williams, Temple, TX; seventeen grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren.

Louise is preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Lonnetta Williams; brother, Jimmy Williams; grandparents, Homer and Opal Williams.

Judy (Wright) Schoeneck, 71, of Elwood, Kansas died Sunday, June 7, 2020 at her home.

Judy was born on November 20, 1948 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Roy Lee and Maxine (Allen) Wright.  She lived all of her life in Elwood.  Judy ran the Little Lambs Daycare at the Elwood United Community Church from 1996 until 2011.

She is a member of the Elwood United Community Church in Elwood.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers; Gary and Billy Wright.

Survivors include her son, Christopher Schoeneck of Elwood

                 Grandchildren; Stacie Schoeneck (Jason) of St. Joseph, Missouri

                                         Nick Schoeneck (Becky) of St. Joseph, Missouri

             Great-grandchildren; Joshua, Joseph, Emily and Alyssa.

FUNERAL:  Friday, June 12, 2020 – 11:00 A.M.

       At; Elwood United Community Church – Elwood

      Visitation: family will receive friends Thursday evening 6:30 – 8 pm at the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena, Kansas where friends may call after 9 am Thursday.

       Burial:  Bellemont Cemetery in Wathena

       Memorials:  Elwood United Community Church

                 www.harmanrohde.com

Norman Leroy Green, 97, of White Cloud, KS, passed away Monday, June 8, 2020 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha, KS, where he was a resident since 2019. 

Norman was born on May 17, 1923, second child of Roy and Alma (Montgomery) Green. Norman was raised on a farm near White Cloud, KS with an older brother, Harry Green. He attended school in White Cloud, KS where he graduated from in 1941. 

Norman married Mavis Chandler, in this marriage there were three daughters, and one son. Later on he was divorced and then remarried Dorothy Wells in 1961. Norman enjoyed farming and had a passion for improving his own land to become better farms. Norman was a member of the Zion-Methodist Church in Robinson, KS. When Norman was not working he enjoyed playing dominoes and checkers, watching Judd for the Defense, Wizard of Oz, and Ten Commandments. 

Norman was preceded in death by his father, Roy Green in 1958; his mother, Alma Green in 1996; his wife, Dorothy Green in 1994; and his brother, Harry Green in 1997. 

Norman is survived by his children, Sharon Behm(Steve) in Lakewood, CO, Linda Prior in Westminster, CO, Dianna Oswalt in Riverside, AL, and Marvin Green in White Cloud, KS. Norman is also survived by eight grandchildren, Micah Ramey, Tessa Browne, Alan Prior, Austin Prior, Stephanie Stevens, Kristy Wehner, Travis Green, and Megan Green, and 10 great grandchildren. 

Pallbearers are Dennis Leeper, Eddie Wehner, Dreyer (Mate) Coetzee, Jeremy Patton, Derik Holthaus, and Abe Wehner. Honorary Pallbearers are Micah Ramey, Alan Prior, Austin Prior, Dan Collins, Steven Waggoner, Tessa Browne, and Stephanie Stevens.

Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 11, 2020 at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at the funeral home. Interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Apostolic Christian Home, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, KS 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Michael "Mike" Gyhra, 49 of Pawnee City, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 5, 2020 at the Pawnee County Hospital. He was born on August 18, 1970 in Pawnee City to Emmett and Mary (Sperfslage) Gyhra, Sr.  

Services 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at the Faith Baptist Church in Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Traditional service with cremation to follow the service. Officiating Pastor Connor Barr. Visitation on Tuesday, June 9, 2020 from 9 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.  Burial of ashes at a later date. Memorials in lieu of flowers to family choice. Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com.  Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary, Pawnee City, Nebraska. 

 Stephen "Steve" Mitchell Spare was born July 8, 1954 at Hiawatha hospital to Kenneth and Margaret Spare. He and grew up in Padonia with his 2 brothers Keith and Ken and his sister Kathy. He chose to live his life in Padonia where he would grow his farm and enjoy his family.  He passed away Saturday morning, June 6, 2020, with his family by his side.  

 He attended Hiawatha schools where he first met his high school sweetheart, Cathy Linck, during their middle school band class when he left a lasting impression. Following school, he attended mechanic trade school in Wichita. He met and married Patti Cusick and they had their daughter Michelle, raising her in Padonia for a few years. He later married Cathy, taking in her 2 children Steven and Belinda, and then welcoming Scott. 

Steve was a man who has left many stories with many people. A man of hidden talents, he played trumpet in school, guitar at his leisure, and unbeknownst to many, was a talented piano player. He was a proud father of an Eagle scout who spent a lot of time on the road going to wrestling matches and for visits with his daughter. 

Having a heart of gold and never wanting to leave people in a bind, he has cleared countless driveways, mowed acres of yards, and helped many people out of stranded car situations. Family, friends, and even strangers have benefited from his mechanical and car-savvy problem-solving. He was also known to help extinguish field fires, taking loads of water out to burning fields and firefighters who were always happy for an extra hand. 

 He and Cathy rode motorcycles with a group of friends and he loved re-telling stories of their many adventures during their trips that they took them hundreds of miles through several states including South Dakota, Wyoming, New Mexico, Illinois, New York, Michigan....

 He was a proud farmer who loved watching the crops and preferred being outside. From watching the sunsets, to checking the crops during car rides, hunting with family and friends, to working until late in the night. T he farm and his work ran through his veins. 

 Steve was was preceded in death by his father Kenneth Spare, his sister Rebecca, and his son Steven Gaston.

He is survived by his wife Cathy Spare, his children Belinda (Jason) Estes, Michelle (Nicholas) Kieffer, Scott (Kristin Clark) Spare, his grandchildren Sarah White, MaKenzie Kieffer, Adalida Spare, Samuel Estes, Trevor Kieffer, and Jacob Estes; his mother Margaret Spare, and his siblings Keith and Kenneth Spare and Kathy Spare.  

 Services will be provided by Chapel Oaks with his cousin, John Spare, officiating. Visitation hours will be Wednesday June 10th from 10:00am-6:00pm at the funeral home. Private family time will be Thursday morning followed by funeral service at 11:00 am at the family's shed at Scott’s. Service can be viewed at Facebook Group Page: Chapel Oaks Funeral Hiawatha & Highland Ks

Because this will be an outdoor style service, please dress casual and comfortable for the weather and bring chairs for sitting. SOCIAL DISTANCING MUST BE OBSERVED

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for memorial contributions to be sent to Brown County Ag Museum, Hiawatha Fire Dept, or Freedom Hospice, sent in care of the funeral home.

Due to the critical situation our country is in please remember the family during this difficult time. Consider sending a card, or a note on our web site www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Blaine Clary, 3, of Wathena, Kansas passed away Saturday, June 6, 2020 at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City.

Blaine was born on February 3, 2017 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Dillon Clary and Hailey Hundley. 

Survivors include her father, Dillon Clary of Wathena, Kansas

                    her mother, Hailey Hundley of St. Joseph, Missouri

                         her sister, Blaklee Clary of the home

         paternal grandfather, Paul Barnes of St. Joseph, Missouri

          paternal grandmother, Sharon Clary of Wathena

            paternal great-grandmother, Shirley Clary of Troy, Kansas

       maternal grandfather, Monte Ball of Atchison, Kansas

       maternal grandmother, Jennifer Vandeloo of St. Joseph, Missouri

       maternal great-grandmother, Sarah Daum of Atchison, Kansas

aunts and uncles; Kyla Lepez, Chance Barnes, Aerial Barnes, Cheyenne Ponce’ and Taylor Hundley

               numerous nieces, nephews, cousins.

 FUNERAL: Thursday, June 11, 2020 – 11:00 A.M.

              At:  New LifeChurch in Blair, Kansas

        Visitation:  1 hour prior to the funeral at the New Life Church (10-11 am)  Arrangements under the care of the Harman Rohde Funeral in Wathena. There will be no public viewing or visitation except at the New Life Church Thursday.

        Burial: Mount Olive Cemetery – Troy, Kansas

                    www.harmanrohde.com                

Sharon Kay Wofford, 65, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at her home, on the Kickapoo Reservation. She was born on June 11, 1954 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the daughter of Remell and Verda Wahwassuck Spencer. Sharon loved working with children, she worked as a cook for the Boys and Girls Club and was a daycare provider for many children. On June 13, 1973 she married Mike Wofford at the Indian Methodist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was a member of the Kickapoo Tribe. Survivors include her husband, Mike Wofford; three sons, Richard Wofford of Tulsa, Oklahoma, John Wofford of Tulsa, Oklahoma and Chris Wofford of Horton, Kansas; four brothers, Larry Spencer of Berry Hill, Oklahoma, Remell Spencer of Mannford, Oklahoma, Kendall Spencer of Tulsa, Oklahoma and William Spencer of Tulsa, Oklahoma; sister, Patty July of Tulsa, Oklahoma; twelve grandchildren and one great grandson. She was preceded in death by her parents, son, Michael Wofford and a brother, Carl Spencer. Funeral services will be at 12:00 Noon on Monday, June 8, 2020 at the Kickapoo Community Building. Burial will follow at the Kennekuk Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Noel Lundy, 76, of Shubert, NE, passed away June 3, 2020 at Falls City, NE. He was born May 9, 1944 at Falls City to Leon and Gladys (Vice) Lundy.

He married Barbara Kuker in August of 1962 at Falls City. They were divorced in April of 1975.

Noel was raised at Shubert, attended Fike Country School and graduated from Shubert High School in 1961. He then attended Peru State College. Following his schooling he became employed at Frontier Homes and then purchased and ran the Humboldt Bowling Alley, then worked in grain bin construction, then the oil fields and then became a self-employed residential carpenter. He also raised cattle on the side and was an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoors man. He was a member of First United Methodist Church and the Falls City Elks Club.

Noel is survived by his children, Tammy Shafer of Verdon, Dwayne Lundy of Stella, brother, Dan and his wife Judy of Humboldt, NE, sisters, Roxanne Pierce and Cindy Overfield and her husband Dan both of Auburn, grandchildren, Chris Lundy and his wife Erin of Fayetteville, AR, Matt Lundy of Auburn, Luke Lundy of Lawrence, KS, Zebulon Shafer and his wife Caitlin of Shubert, Kenan Shafer and his wife Kaitlin of Morrill, KS, great-grandchildren, Alexa, Brooklyn Gracie Mae, Becket Ann, Jackson Delman and Nolan James and significant other, Ann Liberty of Verdon. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister in infancy, Kathy.

His funeral will be held on Monday, June 8, 2020 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Pastor Jackie Gfeller officiating. Interment will be in Prairie Union Cemetery. People uncomfortable with crowds may listen in their car on 90.1 FM if in close proximity of the funeral home.

Open visitation will begin Saturday afternoon until 5:00 PM and on Sunday from noon until 7:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

For sanitary purposes we ask that you bring your own pen to sign the guest register.

Melissa Fritz Stevenson, 50, of Norfolk, NE, passed away June 4, 2020 at Norfolk. The daughter of Louis and Judy (Lanning) Fritz was born November 23, 1969 at Blair, NE.

She married Lonnie Bahr on November 21, 1987 at Falls City. They divorced in 2001. She married Mark Stevenson on February 14, 2003 at Nemaha, NE and they were later divorced.

Melissa was raised at Verdon and graduated from Dawson Verdon High School in 1988. She worked at Woodings, Ideal Cleaners and Cooper Nuclear Station. She then worked various jobs and moved to Norfolk in 2016, working at Hyvee, and has lived there since. She was a member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church north of Falls City.

Melissa is survived by her children, Cody Bahr of Verdon, Jordan Schwartzer and her husband Taylor of Gretna, parents, Louis and Judy Fritz of Verdon, brothers, Darin Fritz and his wife Kerry of Verdon, Jason Fritz of Verdon, sister, Mara Dungan and her husband Craig of Falls City and two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brother, Edward and her grandparents.

A family funeral will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2020 at 10:30 AM at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church north of Falls City with Reverend Daniel Gifford officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery.

The service will be broadcast on the radio and friends may join the family at the committal service, please observe social distancing rules.

Open visitation will begin late Friday afternoon until 8:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

For sanitary purposes please bring your own pen to sign the guest register.

 Allan “Al” Warner Shumaker, 71, of Wetmore, KS, passed away Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka. He was born January 12, 1949 in Sabetha, KS, the son of Ernest and Edith (Rebenstorf) Shumaker.

    Al graduated Valedictorian from Wetmore High School in 1967. He later graduated Kansas University in 1971 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was a member of the PI Tau Sigma, Tau Beta Pi, Sigma Tau, Theta Tau along with earning the outstanding Mechanical Engineering student his senior year at KU. 

    He worked for Shell Oil Company and Lone Star Service Company as a drilling engineer where he spent a lot of time in the Middle East. Al enjoyed building and creating many projects around his farm but he was very passionate and took much pride in raising his purebred Hereford cattle. 

    Survivors include many cousins around the Wetmore area.

 Al was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Harold Ernest Shumaker.   

   Graveside Funeral Services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 6, 2020 at the Wetmore Cemetery in Wetmore. Memorials may be given to the Herford Cattle Association 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

Wilma J. Geist, 78, of Sabetha, formerly of Hiawatha, died unexpectedly June 1, 2020, at the Sabetha Community Hospital.

She was born at Boyero, Colorado, July 28, 1941, one of four children born to Glenn William and Lena Alberta Summers Welton and graduated from Grainfield, Kansas High School.  

She was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Sabetha, and Auxiliary of Homer-White Post #66, Hiawatha American Legion.  Wilma enjoyed her family, and cooking.

Wilma married Gerald Joseph “Jerry” Geist in 1963 in Grainfield.  When the boys were growing up and attending school, the family moved to Horton prior to moving to Hiawatha where they graduated high school.  In later years, she moved to Sabetha to be near Jerry and Marty who were in the nursing home there.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jerry in 2009, and son Martin in 2007.

Survivors include her son Anthony Geist of Sabetha, grandchildren:  Dylan, Cory, Jordie, Karley, two sisters Fern Mader (Lonnie) of Great Bend, KS, Judy Reinecker (Steve) of Smyrna, TN, brother David Welton (Debbie) of Topeka, KS.

Outdoor funeral mass will be celebrated at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church parking lot in Sabetha, 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 9, with Father Jaime Zarse will officiate.  SOCIAL DISTANCING MUST BE OBSERVED BY STAYING IN VEHICLES. Interment will follow at the Hiawatha Cemetery.   

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha, from 10-5 p.m. Monday

Memorial contributions suggested to Sacred Heart Catholic Church sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

Due to the critical situation our country is in please remember the family during this difficult time. Consider sending a card, or a note on our web site www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Floyd Jay Sutton, 93, Atchison KS died on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at the Gran Villas, Atchison, KS.

Graveside services and burial will be at 11:30 AM on Friday, June 5, 2020 at the Evergreen Cemetery, Effingham, KS with Rev. Matt Broxtermann officiating.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 am at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Shiners’ Children’s Hospital or the First Christian Church (Property and Grounds/Building repair and Maintenance) and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Floyd was born on July 29, 1926 in Emporia, KS the son of Jay R. and Helen E. (Osborn) Sutton. He graduated from Emporia High School in 1944. Floyd served with the 31st Army Infantry Division on Mindanao, PI during World War II from 1944-1946.  He received the Combat Infantry Award.

Floyd was employed at ATSF Railroad as a Engine-Foreman Conductor from 1947-1988. He served as a Boy Scout Comitteeman, and coached as little league baseball team.  Floyd was a member of the First Christian Church where he served many years as a Deacon and President of the Friendship Sunday School Class. He and his wife Doris enjoyed Square Dancing with the local square dancing club here and also in Mesa, AZ where they wintered for many years.   They loved to travel and have visited many foreign countries.  Floyd was a Past Master of the Masonic Lodge # 158, and a Charter member and Past President of the Hi-12 Club, a Life member of the American Legion and VFW.

He was married to Doris Coleen Higley on Oct. 10, 1948 at the First Christian Church, Topeka, KS.  She survives.  Additional survivors include two sons Gary E. (Mary Jo) Sutton, Topeka, KS and Jeffrey (Judy) Sutton, Cedar Falls, IA, five grandchildren Ashley McCaffery, Topeka, KS, Dustin (Jessica) Sutton, Parkville, MO,  Courtney (Josh) Marchbank, Kansas City, MO,  Amelia and Clarissa Sutton, Des Moines, IA. Eight great grandchildren, Cullen, Finn, Patrick and Breccan McCaffery, Teagan and Kellan Marchbank, and Isabella and Milan Sutton. His parents, a brother Thomas Sutton and a sister Elizabeth (Betty) Sutton preceded him in death.

Gary Delome, Jr., 37, of Falls City, NE, passed away May 30, 2020 at Falls City. He was born September 24, 1982 at Nuremberg, Germany.

Gary enlisted in the United States Army in 2000.

Gary was raised at Albuquerque, NM and enlisted in the U. S. Army. Following his discharge he attended New Mexico Community College at Albuquerque. He then became employed at Home Depot. He moved to Morrill, KS and was employed at Extrutech at Sabetha as a supervisor.

Gary is survived by his brothers, Dave Howard of Palmer Lake, CO, Robert Mitchell of Rio Rancho, NM, Scott Delome of Falls City, grandmother, Bertha Mitchell of Albuquerque, special friends, Shelly Thompson and her children, Crystal, Sheldon and Caden all of Falls City, nieces and nephews, Alexis Mitchell, Taylor and Colton Delome, Sydney and Dakota Howard, Sheri, Alexis, R. J. and Easton Mitchell. He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

The body of Mr. Delome has been cremated and services will be held at a later date.

Vernon J. Carter, 91, of Derby, Kansas, formerly of Troy, passed away peacefully Sunday morning May 31, 2020 at home with his daughter at his side.

Mr. Carter was born November 15, 1928 in Dodge City, Kansas to Mary(White) and F.F. Carter. He lived in Colorado for many years and came to Troy in 1942 where he graduated from Troy High School in 1946. Immediately following graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces. While in the USAAF he was stationed in Texas, Guam and the Philippines where he was on the Base’s track team. He ran in the Service competitions in Tokyo, Japan and other locations winning several placement trophies. His daily work was to assist in publishing the Base newspaper. He reached the Rank of Sergeant while in the Service.                                                                                                  

When he returned from the Service he went to work for Armour & Company where he worked for over 32 years until they closed. He then went to work for Peachtree Doors and Windows until the operation returned to Georgia. He then worked for Ag. Processing until he retired.                                                         

After returning from the Service, he married his high school sweetheart Kathryn A. Cummings at the Community of Christ (Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) on February 3, 1950. He was a devoted father who worked hard to meet the needs of his family. They enjoyed 69 years and 7 months together. Good with his hands he could fix anything from clocks to tube TV’s and anything around the house. He studied the Bible extensively especially the Old Testament and at Church taught an Old Testament class.    

Vernon was preceded in death by his wife Kathryn.

Survivors include: a daughter Mary Kathryn (Michael) Clarady all of Derby, Kansas; his brother in law Lyle Cummings, niece Marla Kay Cummings and nephew Robert (Bob) Cummings all of Troy, Kansas; great nephews Shane (Heather) Peden of Wichita, Kansas Clint Peden of Troy, Kansas, and Brady (Mikalla) Cummings of Los Angeles, California; great niece Blair (Brandon) Geiger of Highland, Kansas; great-great nieces and nephew Taylor, Bennett and Brittie.   Vernon’s family friends Christine (Wayne) Determann; John (Sarah) Clarady (Lucas, Aaron, Wyatt); Daniel (Kim) Clarady (Lily).

A celebration of Vernon’s life will be held Thursday June 4, 2020 with visitation at 9 a.m. and services following at 10 a.m. at the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Troy. Burial will follow at Mt Olive Cemetery in Troy.  

Memorials: Troy Ambulance  Fund.                                    www.harmanrohde.com

Elaine (Murphy) Adams, 90, of Troy, Kansas died Sunday evening, May 31, 2020 at a nursing home in Wathena, Kansas.

Elaine was born on March 18, 1930 in Troy, Kansas to Riley and Nellie (Large) Murphy.  She lived most of her life in Troy. Elaine worked and retired from A T &T after 33 years.

Elaine is a member of the St. Charles Catholic Church in Troy.  She volunteered several years at the Pioneer Senior Citizens Center also in Troy.

She married James W. Adams, Sr.  He preceded her in death in 1977.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, son, James W. Adams, Jr., brothers, Paul and Gordon Murphy and a sister, Agnes Pearl Murphy.

Survivors include her children; Steve Adams (Christine) of Troy

                                    Rodney Dwain Adams of Creighton, Nebraska

                                   Karen Wetmore (Dale) of Troy

                                   Sharon Handley (Larry) of Troy

                                   Deborah Shelton (Leslie) of Troy

15 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends

GRAVESIDE: 10:00 A.M. Friday, June 5, 2020

At:  St. Charles Catholic Cemetery of Troy, Kansas.

Rosary: 6:00 P.M. Thursday evening at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home, Troy, Kansas with family visitation to follow.

Memorials: St. Charles Catholic Church or Troy Ambulance Fund

                         www.harmanrohde.com

Betty Marie Satterfield, 85, of Hiawatha, KS, passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2020 surrounded by her family in Overland Park, KS.

She was born February 11, 1935 in Lawrence, KS, the daughter of James Parish and Anne Harvey. Betty attended grade school until the sixth grade where she left to work as a press operator at the local hospital. She worked as a cashier for Walmart in Tennessee and Hiawatha, KS for seventeen and a half years. After retirement she volunteered at the Horton and Hiawatha Thrift Stores. Her favorite hobby was to collect salt and pepper shakers where she collected thousands of pairs. She loved going thrift shopping, garage sales, and gardening flowers. When she could, she enjoyed traveling. Most importantly she enjoyed spending time with her family. Betty was married to Richard Cordell Satterfield until his passing in 1990. She later married David Daniel Buckridge Jr. in 1999 who preceded her in death in June of 2019. Including her two husbands she is preceded in death by her parents, James and Anne; a great grandchild, Paige Bostic; two sons, James "Jim" David Garrett Jr. and Robert "Bobby" Eugene Garrett; and seven siblings.

She is survived by a son, Claude "Shorty" Francis Garrett of Nashville, TN; six grandchildren, Stacy Mackey (Cliff), Jeff Luoma (Julie), Kari Clary (Chad), Renee Bostic (Randy), James Garrett III (Heather), and Deana Watson (Dustin); daughter in law Linda Garrett; four siblings, Butch Parish, Ruth Moore, Francis Hamilton, and Vickie Mullins, and seventeen great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

MEMORIAL SERVICE:  5:30 p.m. June 13, 2020, at the Eternal Hope Worship Center, located at 410 East Iowa Street in Hiawatha.   SOCIAL DISTANCING MUST BE OBSERVED. Betty will be laid to rest at a later date with her late husbands at Elmwood Cemetery in Springfield, TN

Due to the critical situation our country is in please remember the family during this difficult time. Consider sending a card or a note on our web site www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Sarah Emily (Smart) Witte, 86, of Atchison, KS passed away on Monday, June 1, 2020 at the Atchison Senior Village surrounded by her three daughters.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at Trinity Lutheran Church with Rev. Robert Ziegler officiating. Burial will follow in the Sugar Creek Cemetery, Rushville, MO. The family will receive friends and family one hour before the funeral at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church Endowment Fund and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who is handling the arrangements. Condolences and remembrances to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Sarah was born on May 26, 1934 in Atchison KS the daughter of Doug A. and Mary H. (Hilligoss) Smart, Sr. She attended Atchison High School. Sarah worked as a caregiver and florist. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church and served on the Kennedy Evangelism calling team for many years. Sarah enjoyed visiting and sharing the gospel with many people she talked with and spent a lot of her time in a card ministry to all the servicemen in the military and to all the people she knew. Sarah also enjoyed painting, gardening, canning, baking and candy making, crocheting and especially spending time with her family, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was married to Albert E. Witte on Oct. 12, 1950 at the Carol Baptist Church, Atchison KS. He preceded her in death on Jan. 10, 2018. Survivors include three daughters, Pam (Dean) Harden, Everest, KS, Sandy Peuker, Rushville, MO., Cindy (Allen) Harden, Lancaster, KS., a son-in-law Robert Delzeit, Rushville, MO., a sister Patricia Turner, Atchison, KS , eight grandchildren and twenty great grandchildren. Her parents, husband Albert, a daughter Jeannie Delzeit, a great granddaughter Rheagan Smith and great grandson Jayden Filbert, three brothers Robert, Douglas and Thomas Smart, three sisters Bessie and Betty Smart, and twin sister Mary Moore.

Carl Rolland Blevins, Jr. passed away in his home May 30, 2020 in Fairview, KS after a long battle with many health issues.

He was born at Fort Sill Army Base in Lawton, OK to Carl, Sr. and Elizabeth (Castleberry) Blevins on August 5, 1946. Carl graduated from Topeka High School in 1965. Upon graduation he joined the Army National Guard Engineering Division.

Carl would marry Connie (Taylor) Blevins in 1967 whom he had two children with.
In 1969 his division, the 69th Infantry, was activated to serve in the Vietnam War. After returning from serving his country he worked for many years at Volume Shoe Corporation (Payless Shoe Source). Carl started his career working in the warehouse and ended his time there as a Director of Operations, Vice President.

Carl left the corporate world to own and operate Sullivan- Westboro Dry Cleaners in Topeka, KS with his wife Connie (Taylor) Blevins. They divorced in 1995.

In 1996, Carl moved to Fairview, KS with Marilyn (Hartter) Blevins whom he wed in 2001. At that time he started a career at Fairview Mills from which he would eventually retire in 2019.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents Carl, Sr. and Elizabeth Blevins and a sister Kimberly Lutz.

Survivors include his wife Marilyn (Hartter) Blevins, Fairview, KS and his beloved dog Cici. Two children William Blevins (Ron), Victoria, TX and Michele Kychik (Corey), Topeka, KS and one grandchild, Kelli Kychik, Topeka, KS. He is also survived by three sisters Sharon Waters, Topeka, KS, Christy Levings, Paola, KS and Melissa Brown, Heber Springs, AR, and one brother Timothy Blevins, Mayetta, KS.

Carl was a friend to all he knew and will be greatly missed.

Memorial Services will be held June 20, 2020 11am at Fairview Community Center. Shane Spangler will officiate.  SOCIAL DISTANCING MUST BE FOLLOWED.

Military Honors a courtesy of the VFW of Sabetha.  There will be a meal directly following at the Community Center.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Carl Blevins Jr. Memorial Fund, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

Due to the critical situation our country is in please remember the family during this difficult time. Consider sending a card, or a note on our web site www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Mildred Agnes Olberding Meyer, 94, of Seneca, went to her heavenly home, Sunday, May 31, 2020 at Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca, Kansas.

She was born March 7, 1926, in Seneca, Kansas, the daughter of George and Elizabeth (Wessel) Olberding.   She attended school at Diamond Country School near Seneca, KS through 8th grade and graduated from St. Peter and Paul High School in 1946. 

She married Frank H. Meyer Jr.  on January 21, 1948 at Saints Peter and Paul church.   The couple celebrated 34 years of marriage before his death in 1982.   To this union were born 7 children, Gary (Nancy) Meyer, LeRoy (Susan) Meyer, Danielle (Vicky) Meyer, Terrance (Patricia) Meyer, Mark (Brenda) Meyer, Glen and Alan (Joan) Meyer.  In addition to her children, Mildred is survived by her 15 grandchildren, and 19 great grandchildren, and two sisters Edith (Leonard) Wassenburg and Irene (Melvin) Heinen.

Mildred enjoyed life as a homemaker raising seven boys.  After raising her family, she worked for the Knights of Columbus Club room and later for Country View Estates Care Home.   She enjoyed her grandchildren and was active in the early stages of their lives watching and caring for them as needed.  Then attending their activities, ceremonies, and celebrations as they grew up.  Mildred was a member of the Sacred Heart parish and Alter Society in Baileyville, Kansas.  She loved to stay busy with crocheting and gardening.  Mildred was a generous and loving person that always cared for others.

Mildred was preceded in death by her husband, Frank on August 16, 1982, a son Glen on August 26, 2016, her grandson Andrew Meyer on January 8, 2002, and a daughter-in-law Pattie Meyer on January 11, 2011.  Her siblings, Robert Olberding and Raymond Olberding.

Due to the critical situation our country is in, please remember the families during this difficult time and consider sending a card of condolence or posting on our website.

Mildred will lie in state on Tuesday for public viewing and to sign the book at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca; a rosary will be at 7 P.M. Tuesday evening at the Sacred heart church in Baileyville.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at 10:30 A.M. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Baileyville; but it will be livestreamed thru Facebook: Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Baileyville.

Memorials may be left in Mildred’s memory to be designated later sent in care of the family
To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

George Edmond Taylor Sr., son of Lester and Grace (Scott) Taylor, was born February 25, 1928 in Table Rock, Nebraska.  He attended grade school in Table Rock until his family moved to a farm north of Humboldt and then attended Bratton Union for a time, and graduated from Humboldt High School with the class of 1946.  George went to work in sales and finance positions for Stansbury Implement, Strong Brothers Chevrolet, and Federated Finance Corporation.  It was during this time George married his first wife Darlene Stevicks. They had a daughter Delores in 1950 and a son George Jr. in 1954.  After returning to Strong Brothers Chevrolet for a time he purchased the dealership in 1962 and it became Taylor Chevrolet.  George owned and operated Taylor Chevrolet until 1976 when he sold it and returned to farming with his father Lester.  In addition to farming, George at various times operated his own bulldozer, hauled livestock, sold seed, and sold cars at his son’s dealership in Seneca, Kansas.  
George devoted much time and energy to the civic life of Humboldt.  He served as President of the Humboldt Chamber of Commerce in 1965. He served two terms on the Humboldt City Council.  One of his proudest accomplishments while on city council was to help lead the effort to establish Colonial Acres Nursing Home in 1969.  George joined the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge in Humboldt in 1947, and eventually rose to the position of Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska during 2009-10.  He was a member of the Richardson County Weed Board and also served on committees of the Humboldt United Methodist Church.  He was named the 2005 King of the Richardson County Fair.
One day while sitting in the showroom of Taylor Chevrolet he was urged by his salesman John Turner to ask out one of George’s high school classmates who happened to be passing by on the sidewalk.  He did.  They struck up a relationship that eventually led to George marrying Sylvia Tupa on October 19, 1968.  George adopted Sylvia’s son Gary.  George and Sylvia celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary in 2019.  They lived in Humboldt for the remainder of their lives.
George passed away on Monday, March 16, 2020 at Nemaha County Hospital in Auburn, Nebraska after a brief illness.  He was ninety-two years of age at his death.  He is survived by daughter Delores and her husband Ron of Loveland Colorado, their children Heidi and Scott and five great grandchildren; son George Jr. of Beatrice, Nebraska, his children Ed and Kathryn, and three great grandchildren; and son Gary and his wife Lisa, of Ames, Iowa and their children Sam and Madeline. 
George was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sylvia, his brother Kenneth, and sister Mary (Taylor) Harlow. 
Graveside Memorial Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2020, at the Humboldt Cemetery with Pastor Dorothy Smith officiating.  A live radio broadcast will be available to all public attending George’s service.
A register book will be available for signing from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2020, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Humboldt United Methodist Church.
Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com.
Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-207 N. Nemaha Street- Humboldt, Nebraska 68376 (402) 862-2915
 

Faye Richards, 99, of Falls City, NE, passed away May 30, 2020 at Auburn, NE. She was born January 1, 1921 at Shubert, NE to John and Alta (Orr) Shafer.

She married Marvin Hendricks in 1939 at Hiawatha, KS, they were later divorced. She then married Charles Richards in July of 1973 at Rapid City, SD, he passed away in 1981.

Faye was raised in the Shubert and Barada, NE areas. When married the couple established their home in Verdon, NE and moved to Lincoln, NE in 1945 and to Auburn in 2017. She worked for Russell Stover Candy Company in Lincoln for 13 ½ years and later had a day car in her own home, retiring in 1973. She was a member of Church of Christ at Falls City.

Faye is survived by her daughters, Leona Thompson and her husband Gene of Rapid City, SD, Linda Schaab and her husband Jim of Florida, twelve grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her her parents, husband, sisters, Elsie Alexander, Velma Gordon, Luella Jones, Alma Handley and 1 in infancy, brothers, Charles, Edward, Frank, Alfred, Henry, Ralph, Elmer and Alvin Shafer and a daughter, Deanna Tidwell.

Her funeral will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. Interment will be in Barada Cemetery.

Viewing and open visitation will begin late Monday afternoon.

A register book is available to sign at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home during regular business hours starting Monday. Please bring your own pen for sanitary purposes.

Willard Dale Binder was born to Violet Mary (Branek) and Charles Jacob Binder on October 24, 1927 on the family farm west of Table Rock. He was the youngest of five boys, Charles, Glenn, Joe and Leland.  He attended school in Table Rock and graduated with his class in 1945.  In March 1950, Willard and his brother, Leland bought the local lumberyard and Binder Brothers was established. Later a ready mix concrete plant was added. As they grew, his sons joined him in the family business. Willard took great pleasure in designing projects for people. He enjoyed serving the community and spent many hours helping customers.
On November 13, 1954, Willard married Minnie Louise Parks. They settled into a home they built in Table Rock and were blessed with seven children. When the family outgrew the small house, they designed and built a new home a few blocks away. The family made many memories on the road- Sunday drives in the country, riding along on concrete deliveries, driving highway 50 or out of state to pick up supplies for the business, and trips to visit children and grandchildren in other states. Most trips included ice cream somewhere along the route. Some trips, like taking the family to Texas in the back of a straight truck to exchange a cement drum, were quite unique and have provided many stories over the years. In recent years Willard could often be found cracking walnuts to give to others. We will all miss our nut supplier. He enjoyed card games, often beating opponents at Rummy and entering into lively bidding in Some R Set, Pinochle and Hearts.
Willard had a deep passion for God and serving. He was active in the local church, the Gideons International, the prison ministry in Tecumseh and also served on many community boards.  One of his favorite verses was 2 Timothy 1:12 “For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless, I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.”
At home, surrounded by family, Willard entered his true, eternal home on Wednesday, May 27, 2020.  He was preceded in death by his parents, toddler sister Ruth Binder, all four brothers, son-in-law Tony Taylor, many in-laws and friends.
Willard is survived by his loving wife of 65 years Minnie of Table Rock, children: Dr. Jonathan Binder and wife Karen of Wyoming, Rebecca DuBois and husband Neil of Michigan, Martha Lessen and husband Eldon of Illinois, Sarah Taylor of Ohio, Peter, Charles and Samuel Binder of Table Rock, grandchildren: Nicholas Binder and wife Megan of Florida, Dr. Matthew Binder of Texas, Raelyn, Ruth and Grace Lessen of Illinois and great-grandson Declan of Florida. Other survivors include four sisters-in-law, numerous nephews and nieces, plus many friends.
Willard’s heart for Jesus, love of people, quiet little smile and the twinkle in his eyes will be greatly missed.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, June 6, 2020 at the United Methodist Church in Table Rock, Nebraska. Due to covid restrictions, services will be radio broadcast and livestreamed for those wishing to join in that way.
Visitation will be from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2020, at the United Methodist Church in Table Rock, Nebraska.
Inurnment will be at the Table Rock Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Gideons International, Wycliffe Bible Translators for printing the Mapun New Testament or Healing Kadi Foundation.
Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com
Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary- 207 N. Nemaha ST.- Humboldt, Nebraska 68376 (402) 862-2915
 

Ethelann was born on July 20th, 1928 in Denver Colorado, one of 11 children.   Her parents were John Angelo Griebling of Denver Colorado and Frances Leona MacKay Griebling born in Belleville, Kansas.  Ethelann’ s parents moved to Evergreen, Colorado where she attended K-12th grade in July 1937.   She also worked at the local Pharmacy in Evergreen.  After graduation she attended the University of Nebraska, Lincoln Nebraska majoring in Pharmacy.  While attending UNL, she met the love of her life Robert (Bob) Stillinger from Columbus, Nebraska.  They were wed on July 20th, 1950.  After college Ethelann and Bob moved to Columbus, Ne. where Ethelann worked for the local phone company.  They moved to Basset, Ne. where Bob took a position at the local bank and Ethelann gave birth to their daughter Roberta (Bobbie) in 1958.  That same year they had the opportunity to purchase the State Bank of Table Rock from the Guy Bonham family, and both worked together in the bank until her retirement from banking in July 1990.    Ethelann truly enjoyed Table Rock and all the friends they made through the years serving the community and surrounding area.  Ethelann was active in the Table Rock Community Club, Table Rock Development Corporation, Table Rock Village Apartments, Table Rock Senior Citizens Center, and served as an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary for 62 years.   Ethelann was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and St. Anthony’s Alter Society.  She always enjoyed helping with activities at the Steinauer Convent House as well as the Table Rock Senior Center and local activities, parades and festivals of Table Rock Community Club.   Ethelann passed away peacefully in her sleep at the Monarch in Lincoln Nebraska on May 29th.    Ethelann was preceded in death by her parents, John Griebling and Frances Griebling, her husband Robert Stillinger, three brothers, Jack Griebling, George Griebling and Mike Griebling, and a sister Louise Griebling Spanger.   She is survived by her sisters Judy Stockholm of Table Rock, Ne., Lee Johnson of Sacramento, Ca. Sharon Bentley and Husband Ray of Canon City, Co., Brothers Jerry Griebling of Arvada, Co., Bill Griebling, of San Diego, Ca., and Harry Griebling of Table Rock, Ne., and her daughter Bobbie Stillinger-Kunze and son-in-law Rick Kunze of Adams, Ne.;  Grand Daughter Amy Hunzeker and husband Mike and sons Cole and Cooper, of Table Rock, Ne,.; Grand Son John Kostecka and wife Lindsay and daughter Johnna, of Table Rock, Ne.; Grand Son Spencer Kunze and wife Tamara and son Kaden, of Adams, Ne.;  Step Grand Daughter Michelle Phillips and husband Robert and children, Rachel, Maiah, and Corbin, of Omaha, Ne.; Step Grand Daughter Jennifer Rodriguez and husband Andrew, son Cody Westbrook Bakersfield Ca.; and numerous other nieces and nephews.  
Mass of Christian Burial Services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 5, 2020 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Steinauer, Nebraska.  Officiating Father Michael Christensen.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 2-4 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. Thursday June 4, 2020 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Steinauer, Nebraska.  Interment will be in the Table Rock Cemetery, Table Rock, Nebraska.  Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com. 
 

Arlen Francis Ruhnke, 67, went home to Jesus on Friday, May 29, 2020 at his home in Long Island, KS.

Arlen was born on June 12, 1952 to Douglas and Florence (Albers) Ruhnke in Troy, KS where he lived most of his life. He graduated from Troy High School in 1970 and Missouri Western State College in 1974. After college he worked several jobs including working for the REA as a lineman, worked for his dad at the NAPA store, built houses and was a rural mail carrier for 26 years, and ran his own farm north of Troy.

After his retirement, he moved to Long Island, KS in 2013. He married Barbara Prawl on October 22, 1977. They have been married for 42 years. Together they raised 4 children. His family was his life and teaching his children and grandchildren to know Jesus was most important to him. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Troy and the Norton Christian Church in Norton, KS where he was involved with the youth programs. He leaves behind a legacy of the Gospel of Christ.

Arlen is preceded in death by his parents, Douglas and Florence Ruhnke, his brother Wayne Ruhnke, an unborn child, and an unborn grandchild.

Survivors include his wife, Barb of the home, son Daniel and wife Selena, St. Joseph, MO, daughter Corinne and husband Clint, of Long Island, son Aaron and wife Jessica, of Topeka, KS, son Jay and wife Jennifer, of Las Vegas, NV, a sister Rosa Madison of Troy, KS, 13 grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and relatives.

A memorial service will be held at the Norton Christian Church, Norton, KS on Monday, June 1 at 10:30am. A graveside service will be held in Bendena, KS at Moray Cemetery on Wednesday June 3 at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Norton Christian Church youth ministry, mailable to Norton Christian Church 208 N. Kansas, Norton, KS 67654.

Harman-Rohde Funeral Home, Troy, Kansas, www.harmanrohde.com

Marian Florence (Ulmer) Leatherman, 96, passed away on May 30, 2020 at Colonial Acres Nursing Home in Humboldt, Nebraska. She was born on December 31, 1923, in a rural home built by her father. She was the fifth of six children born to Reuben and True (Stratton) Ulmer. Marian graduated from the Dawson Public School in 1941. She worked in Omaha as a typist before she married Wayne Leatherman on October 17th, 1942, in Tucson, AZ, where he was serving in the U.S. Air Force. They returned to Nebraska in 1943. Marian lived in the Humboldt-Dawson area the remainder of her life, primarily in her original family home north of Dawson.

Marian joined the Evangelical United Brethren Church and remained a member after it became the United Methodist Church. She was active in the choir led by her father, and also served as church secretary for several years. She was employed as the secretary for the Dawson-Verdon School and the school board for 30 years, serving under nine different superintendents, retiring in 1993. Marian had a love for music and enjoyed singing with her beautiful alto voice. She learned to play the piano and violin as a child, and played the organ later in life. One of her favorite memories when growing up was all the music in her home.

 A gifted craftswoman, Marian made quilts, tapestries, baskets and stained glass creations. She loved reading, chocolate, Jeopardy and was a crossword puzzle master. She continued to live in her farm home until entering the Colonial Acres Nursing Home in 2014.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne; son Christopher; four sisters, Evelyn, Lorraine, Sylvia, and Nadine; a brother, Ernest; and three great-grandchildren, Stephan, Brittany, and Bethany.

Left to cherish memories of Marian are her five children: Linda (Steve) McGuire of Cheney, KS; Gary (Becky) Leatherman of Pawnee City, NE; Tim (Debbie) Leatherman of Topeka, KS; Andrew (Sue) Leatherman of Parker, CO; and Kristi (Jack) Hall of Spearfish, SD; 16 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild, other relatives and friends.

Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2020, at the Heim Cemetery in Dawson, Nebraska with Pastor Howard Blecha officiating.  Due to the Covid 19 restrictions, services for Marian will be broadcast live on f.m. radio station 88.7 for those wanting to attend.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2020, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska.

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

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com.

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