Robin "Rob" David Ranieri, 66, of Seneca, Kansas, for nearly forty-seven years, beloved father, father-in-law, and grandfather, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 30, 2021. 

He is survived by his sister, Venetia Angel of Hawaii; two brothers, Randy Ranieri of California, and Ramon Ranieri of Montana; his four sons, Jerett Ranieri (Laura) of Seneca, Stefan Ranieri (Alex) of North Carolina, Dylan Ranieri of Manhattan, and Tanner Ranieri (Brittany) of Illinois; and his three grandchildren, Kamryn, Cole, and Nora Ranieri of Seneca. He is preceded by his father, Larry Ranieri; his mother, Bobby Nelson Ranieri; his brother, Romel Ranieri; and his sister, Vicki Ranieri. 

Robin Ranieri was born in San Jose, California on December 10, 1954 and moved to Black Eagle, Montana as a child. Then, Robin was a high school graduate of Maur Hill - Mount Academy in Atchison, Kansas. Robin worked a number of jobs including building agricultural silos, at CR industries, painting oil rigs off the coast of Texas, and at Wolfe's Camera Shop in Topeka. He attended St. Thomas Seminary in Denver, Colorado. Robin married Janet Olberding on August 6, 1977 in St. Benedict. They welcomed their first son, Jerett, into the world the following year. The couple worked as photographers in Northeast Kansas and captured special moments for nearly forty years, and won numerous photography awards in the Tri-State Area while running multiple one-hour photo labs. He was continuously a hard-worker, and also started the Seneca Main Street Drive-In with his brother, Ramon. Robin and Janet went on to have three more sons, Stefan, Dylan, and Tanner. Robin was known as the life of the party, boisterous, and could talk to anyone who would listen. People always knew he was in attendance at events by his unique laughter. He was gregarious and friendly to everyone, bringing smiles to all of those around him. Robin spent his final years as a loving father to his sons, spending time with friends on morning walks, enjoying being a grandfather, and attending sports games of his three grandchildren.

His memorial visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at the Popkess Memorial Chapel in Seneca, Kansas with a rosary prayed at 6:00 p.m. There will be a graveside service at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Great Falls, Montana. His ashes will be buried next to his sister and parents. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in his memory to Saints Peter & Paul Schools sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle, Seneca, Kansas 66538. www.popkessmortuaries.com

Gregory Charles “Greg” Wagner, age 64, of Cummings, Kansas, passed away May 29, 2021 at his home with his loving family at his side.

Mass of Christian burial will be Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Joseph Church with Rev. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant. A parish and Knights of Columbus Rosary will be prayed on Tuesday, June 1st at 6:00 p.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 7:30 p.m. Greg will be cremated following the service and burial will be at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Knights of Columbus Council #818 and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Greg was born on November 5, 1956 in Atchison, Kansas the son of Charles R. and Carol A. (Anslinger) Wagner. He attended schools in Easton, Kansas until 10th grade and then graduated in 1974 from Atchison County Community High School in Effingham. He attended Kansas State University where he participated in the marching band as a tuba player, was very active in the ROTC and was on the KSU Rifle Team.  

He married Robyn Kuhnert on August 17, 1979 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Atchison and they shared over forty years together.

Greg was employed in the Grain Elevator Industry as a superintendent at Atchison County Coop for fifteen years, ConAgra for six years and Bunge for five years. He worked at the Pipe Plant for two years and Atchison Castings for six years. He and Robyn bought Daylight Donuts in 2005 and Greg loved frying donuts, enjoyed visiting with the customers and was in charge of quality control. They met so many nice people during their seven years as owners of Daylight Donuts. Greg completed his employment career as a maintenance supervisor at Wal-Mart.

He was a member of St. Benedict Parish and the Knights of Columbus Council #818. He coached baseball and Steelers Football for many years. Greg was a hunter, fisherman and a shooter.

Survivors include his wife Robyn Wagner, of the couple’s home in Cummings, KS; three sons, Gabe (Jennifer), Jacob (Dana), Lucas (Sarah); four grandchildren, Hannah, Kori, Emma, Alan; siblings, Jennifer (Kevin) Gigstad, Stephanie (Tom) Nichols, Angela (Russ) Seybert, Richard (Kathy) Wagner, Jeffrey (Bev) Wagner; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Carol Wagner; and an infant sister, Mary Katherine Wagner.

Ralph E. Raaf, 81, of Holton, KS, passed away Saturday, May 29, 2021 at Promise Long Term Acute Care in Overland Park, KS. He was born March 27, 1940 in Gridley, KS, the son of Sam and Ella (Knapp) Raaf.

Ralph graduated from Burlington High School in 1958. He lived in the Holton Community since 1967. Ralph retired from Kansas Department of Transportation as Engineering Technician. He was a member of the Kansas Prairie Pickers.

Ralph married Linda Kay Bentley on May 26, 1961 in Miami, OK. She preceded him in death on February 9, 2008; after 47 years of marriage.

Survivors include son, Tony Raaf (Michelle) of Holton, KS; daughter, Cindy Delfelder (Jim) Meriden, KS; sister, Emily Garrett of Burlington, KS; brother, Clarence Raaf of Wichita, KS; 5 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

 Funeral Service will be 11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 3, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Ralph will lie in state beginning Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday until 6:30 p.m. Memorials may be given to the Heart of Jackson Humane Society c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Hiawatha, KS……Judith Ann Daily, 71, formerly of Hiawatha, died Saturday evening, May 29, 2021, at Bryan West Hospital Campus in Lincoln, Nebraska, from complications arising from covid pneumonia.

Judy was born January 20, 1950, at Severance, KS, the daughter of Samuel Floyd and Erma Leona Heaston McNett and has lived in the northeast Kansas area most of her life. She grew up at Severance, where she attended schools there prior to graduating high school. She operated a machine at Flair Fold Shutter Plant in Hiawatha for thirteen years until it closed.

She attended faithfully at the Calvary Temple Assembly of God Church in Hiawatha until recent months. She formerly was a member of the Cornerstone Church in Hiawatha where she served as Sunday School teacher for a number of years. Judy was devoted to her God, and was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was very personable to visit with, and a great sense of humor.

She married Donald Daily, December 22, 1967, at Severance and had made Hiawatha their home until his death April 16, 2018. She in recent months moved to Marysville, KS to be near family.

Survivors her children: Donnie Daily (Judith Watton) of Havensville, KS; daughters Wendy Bradley (Tim Shalla) of Fairbury, Nebraska, and Donna Oldridge of Glenwood, Iowa; her siblings: Don, Cheryl, Ben and Vicki; eleven grandchildren with twenty-three great-grandchildren.

Judy was also preceded in death by her parents; brothers Samuel, Raymond, Ernie, Ronnie McNett; grandson Tad Michael Clary, and great-grand-daughter Sua Duenow.

A Celebration of Judy’s eternal life is planned for 2 p.m. Thursday, June 3, at the Calvary Temple. Pastor Jim Farris and Sheldon Smith will officiate. Interment will follow at Hiawatha Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wednesday and until 11 a.m. Thursday. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services Thursday at Church.

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

MASKS ARE OPTIONAL

A special message or remembrance may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com which also includes Livestreaming site

Thelma Jean Young, 79, of Las Vegas, NM, formerly of Whiting, KS, passed away Monday, May 24, 2021 in Payson, AZ, at her daughter’s home. She was born December 8, 1941 in Horton, KS, the daughter of Henry Richard and Helen Lava (Irey) Brown.

Thelma graduated from Whiting High School. She lived 18 years in Whiting, KS, 4 years in Atchison, KS, 2 years in Raton, NM and 56 years in Las Vegas, NM. Thelma retired from various jobs, as bookkeeper and clerical sales. She owned and operated TJ’s Helping Hands, taking care of elderly clients and house cleaning. Two of her clients were over 100 years old. Thelma was a former member of the First Baptist Church in Whiting.

She married Carroll D. Young on May 16, 1959 in Whiting, KS. They later divorced.

Survivors include a daughter, Janet Young of Payson, AZ; a son, Randy Young of Prescott, AZ; 2 sisters, Beverly Searcy of Peoria, IL and Shirley Martin of Fairfield, OH; 3 grandchildren, Derek A. Young, Kevin A. Young and Sarah N. Young all of Phoenix, AZ.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Charlotte Hollander.

Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Springhill Cemetery at Whiting. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Cards of condolence for the family can be mailed to Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Bruce Walker, 82, of Falls City, passed away Thursday, May 27, 2021 at Lincoln Nebraska. Bruce was born Dec. 03, 1938 at Caribou ME, to the late Paul and Elsie Hammel Walker.

On Oct. 24, 1957 he married Mary Alice Selders at Elm Creek NE.
Bruce graduated from Elm Creek High School in 1957.  When married, the couple established their home in Grand Island, then moved to Pawnee City and, in 1963, they moved to Falls City.  Bruce worked for the Soil Conservation Service and earned many honors there.  He also owned Ye Ole Pine Patch growing and selling Christmas trees.  Along with Mary, Bruce owned the Inspiration House Christian Book Store in Falls City for 24 years.

Bruce was active in many community events.  He enjoyed visiting nursing homes with his dogs, Patches and then Molly.  All were dressed in appropriate costumes for the occasion and brought much enjoyment to all.  His favorite activity was being Santa Claus.  Growing Christmas trees was his passion.  Helping families pick their tree and the children cutting their tree brought him great joy. He was a member of the Nemaha NRD (Natural Resource District) and the Falls City Tree Board.  Bruce was the recipient of the 1970 Distinguished Service award from the Falls City Area Jaycees. 

Bruce and Mary Walker donated 24 white pines to the Steele Cemetery in 2010. These beautiful trees border the north side of the cemetery’s property line and the center circle.   

He was a member of First United Methodist Church.

Bruce is survived by his daughter, Linda (Eric) Cook, of Topeka KS; sons, Brian (Cindy), of Hickman NE, Steven (Angela), of Colorado Springs, CO; 10 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.  Bruce was preceded in death by his wife Mary, his parents, his sister Barbara Rich, and 2 great-grandchildren.

Friends may call at the First United Methodist Church in Falls City after 2 p.m. Tuesday, where the family will meet  from 5:30 until 7:30 that evening.

Graveside services are planned for 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 2, at the Steele Cemetery in Falls City.  A Celebration of Bruce’s eternal life is to follow at 11 a.m. at First Methodist Church.  Ben Walker and Eric Cook will officiate.  Everyone is invited to join the family for lunch immediately following services in the Church basement.
All are invited, in your memory of Bruce to bring an ornament to place on a tree, to be returned at conclusion of services.

Memorial contributions are suggested to First United Methodist Church Memorial Fund memo Falls City Ministerial Alliance Benevolence Fund, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha, KS 66434.

A note of remembrance or livestreaming site is www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Edith Elaine “Dane” Normile, 75, of Denton, KS went home with our Lord and Savior in the early hours of Thursday, May 27, 2021 at her home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at St. Mary’s Church, Purcell, KS with burial to follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery.  A parish rosary will be recited at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS with visitation to follow until 8:30 pm.  Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Mary’s Cemetery or the Doniphan County Fire District # 3 and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Dane was born on Feb. 11, 1946 the daughter of Michael J. “Joe” and Edith (Pauly) Normile. She graduated from the Mt. St. Scholastica Academy in 1963 and earned an Associate’s Degree.  Dane spent most of her life on the family farm. She was an avid pay it forward person who always did for others. Dane made over 1,000 baby blankets, knitted caps and Afghans, along with presenting 26 Quilts of Valor, and making a lot of other quilts.  She baked, cooked, sewed and quilted her whole life.  She was an honorary member of the Pony Express.  Dane was a nanny for Margo (Schecher) Ellerman and Pattie (Schecher) Leheu. She owned and operated the “Happy Days” preschool for 35 years in Horton, KS.  After that she was a manager and tourism coordinator for the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce. She was a member of the Saint Mary Catholic Church, Purcell, KS where she had taught CCD classes in previous years and was a Cub Scout leader.

Dane is survived by three sisters, Mary Jo (Ray) Becker, Margie (Ron) Moore, and Alicia (Richard) Mallon, one niece Ashley (Scott) Banister, and nephews Bryan (Carrie) Sterling, David (Gail) Becker, Mike (Marci) Becker, Tim (Kelli) Becker, Patrick (Cathy) Becker, Steve Moore. Great nephews; Matthew Sterling, Garret (Lauren) Becker, Austin (Stephanie) Becker, Brock Becker, Conner Becker, Carson Becker, Devin Becker, Jaxon Banister, Alex Moore, great nieces; Micaela Becker, Rachel Becker, Caroline Becker, Reagan Becker, Grace Becker, and Lilly Banister.  She is also survived by a cousin, nurse by profession, Kathy Albers.  Her parents, a sister Katherine Sterling, a niece Christy Moore, and her lifelong friend Dean Robke preceded her in death.

Joann D. Deters, 87, of Seneca, died on Friday, May 28, 2021, at Life Care Center of Seneca.

Joann was born north of Marysville on a farm belonging to her parents, Lawrence and Carlene Stroemer Travelute, on June 18, 1933. Joann’s family moved to Bremen and Joann attended school in a country school called Deer Creek Country School, before attending St. Gregory’s Catholic School. She graduated from the eighth grade; and attended a boarding school in Paola for a few years.

On January 27, 1955 she married Alvin Deters at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church in Marysville. The couple farmed southwest Baileyville and raised cattle, hogs and chickens. They celebrated 54 years of marriage, before Alvin’s death August 30, 2009. Shortly after becoming a widow, Joann made Country Place Living in Seneca her home.

She was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the St. Ann’s Altar society both in Baileyville. Joann enjoyed embroidery work and knitting, especially knitting baby booties and giving them away. She liked playing Bingo and frying the best fried chicken. Her children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her the most joy. She was always delighted by her birthday gifts, stating the gift was just what she wanted.

The ultimate gift for her, is just what she wanted to go home to her husband and parents.

Survivors are two sons, Doug and Gary Deters, both of Baileyville; two daughters, Colette (Ken) Hermesch and Theresa (Scott) Rokey, both of Seneca; a brother Harold (Rosemary) Travelute of Scottsdale, Arizona; two granddaughters, Emily and Erin and 3 great-grandchildren.

Preceding Joann in death were her parents, her husband Alvin and her sister, Kathy Leiker on September 2010.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 AM Monday, May 31, 2021, at Sacred Heart Church in Baileyville. Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM on Sunday at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Memorial contributions may be given for Sacred Heart Catholic Church and/or COINS for a Cause, and sent in care of the family.

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

Albert Earl Zishka, 87, of Lancaster, KS died on Wednesday, May 26th, 2021 at his home in Lancaster, KS.

Graveside services and burial will be held at 11:15 am on Saturday, May 29th, 2021 at the St. Joseph Cemetery, Nortonville KS. The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:00 am on Sat. at the O’Trimble Funeral Chapel, 329 Main St, Nortonville, KS. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com. Albert was born on May 2, 1934 in Valley Falls, KS the son of George W. and Leona B. (Shughart) Zishka. He graduated from Nortonville High School in 1952 and served in the Kansas National Guard. Albert lived most of his life in Canfield, Ohio where he owned and operated Canfield Day Care Center and Apartment Building. Before moving to Greenville, South Carolina he spent a lot of time with his church on missionary trips to eighteen different countries including Russia, Mexico, Euthopia, and North Dakota. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, Canfield, OH where he served as Elder and Deacon, and several other positions. He was married to Marilyn Shaffer and later divorced.

Albert is survived by two sons, Jeffrey Zishka, Canfield OH, and Jason Zishka, Greenville, SC, two sisters Mary Kane, Atchison, KS and Helen Whitlock, Dearborn, MO, two brothers James Zishka, Dallas,TX and Marvin Zishka, Basehor, KS, a granddaughter Alexis Morgan, and several nieces and nephews. His parents, four brothers Paul, Don, Harold and Leo Zishka and a sister Rose Perkins preceded him in death.

Albert Earl Zishka, 87, of Lancaster, KS died on Wednesday, May 26th, 2021 at his home in Lancaster, KS.

Graveside services and burial will be held at 11:15 am on Saturday, May 29th, 2021 at the St. Joseph Cemetery, Nortonville KS.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:00 am on Sat. at the O’Trimble Funeral Chapel, 329 Main St, Nortonville, KS. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Albert was born on May 2, 1934 in Valley Falls, KS the son of George W. and Leona B. (Shughart) Zishka. He graduated from Nortonville High School in 1952 and served in the Kansas National Guard.  Albert lived most of his life in Canfield, Ohio where he owned and operated Canfield Day Care Center and Apartment Building.  Before moving to Greenville, South Carolina he spent a lot of time with his church on missionary trips to eighteen different countries including Russia, Mexico, Euthopia, and North Dakota.  He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, Canfield, OH where he served as Elder and Deacon, and several other positions.

He was married to Marilyn Shaffer and later divorced.  Albert is survived by two sons, Jeffrey Zishka, Canfield OH, and Jason Zishka, Greenville, SC, two sisters Mary Kane, Atchison, KS and Helen Whitlock, Dearborn, MO, two brothers James Zishka, Dallas,TX and Marvin Zishka, Basehor, KS, a granddaughter Alexis Morgan, and several nieces and nephews. His parents, four brothers Paul, Don, Harold and Leo Zishka and a sister Rose Perkins preceded him in death.

HOLTON - Francis Edward DeVader, 90, passed away Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at the Onaga Health and Rehabilitation Center in Onaga. 

He was born June 21, 1930 at Emmett, the son of Henry and Inez Hladky DeVader.  He served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve for four years from 1951-1955. 

Francis worked at Goodyear in Topeka for thirty-seven years.  He was also a farmer and a stockman.

He was a member of St. Dominic Catholic Church in Holton, Holton Knights of Columbus Council No. 4219, American Legion Post No. 44, Holton, and Holton Memorial Post No. 1367 of the V.F.W.  He also served as President of the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Board at Holton for many years.

Francis married Edna F. Johnson on March 18, 1953 in Lincoln, Nebraska.  She preceded him in death on November 27, 1997.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, a son, Dennis DeVader, a grandson, James Christopher Schmidt, three brothers, Raymond DeVader, Richard “Dick” DeVader and Roger DeVader, and two sons-in-law, Thomas Kelly and Daryl Heslop. 

Survivors include five sons, Dan DeVader (Sharon), Holton, Henry F. DeVader (Marvene), Hoyt, Peter DeVader (Sandy), Holton, Douglas DeVader (Mary), Holton and Martin DeVader (Dana), Mayetta; three daughters, Jan Heslop, Neosha Falls, Ingrid Kelly, Hawaii, and Lisa Gerhardt (Larry), Netawaka; one brother, Robert DeVader, in California; three sisters, Ramona Robinson and Renetta Moore, both of Mayetta, and Rosalie Boling, Hoyt; twenty-nine grandchildren and forty-eight great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 2nd at St. Dominic Catholic Church.  Burial will in follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Francis will lie in state from noon until 8:00 p.m. on Monday, and all day Tuesday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Holton, where a Rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m., followed by visitation until 8:00 p.m.  Memorials are suggested to the Thanksgiving and Christmas Community Dinners, and may be sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, PO Box 1034, Holton, KS  66436.

Loretta Mae Porter, 95, of Salem, NE, went to be with her Lord and savior May 24th 2021. She was born April 16th 1926 in rural Bern, KS to Art and Alta (Britt) Moser. She was the third oldest to 6 children. She was raised in the Summerfield and Pawnee City area. She married Frank Porter on April 20, 1945 in Seneca, KS. She attend grade school until the 8th grade then later obtain her GED at the age of 62.

She lived in California from 1956 to 1969. She worked at woodings verona and Burger King in Falls City, NE for several years. She owned and operated the Snoop Shop in Salem for many years sharing her love of a great find. She worked as a waitress at the Dubois bar and grill in Dubois, NE.

She was a member of the Good New Assembly of God in Falls City, NE for many years.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was a homemaker to her four children. She enjoyed playing cards, dancing every Saturday night away, hitting the slots at the casino, going to farm sales, bird watching, traveling and watching her grandchildren and great grandchildren grow.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, husband Frank, daughter Bonnie Graves, son Stephen Porter, grandson Mathew Porter, three brothers, and one sister.

Loretta is survived by her Sister Shirley Dietrich of Dubois, daughters, Linda Luedeke and husband John of Lincoln, daughter Janice de Koning and husband Henry of Dawson. Nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. She will remain in our hearts forever, until we are reunited again.

Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at 1:00 PM at Good News Assembly of God Church with reception luncheon to follow. Inurnment will be in the DuBois Cemetery.

Friends may sign the guest registry at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home during regular business hours.

Alodyne Mayme Shackleton Parks was born to Harold and Josephine Shackleton on March 13, 1924 in Pawnee City, Nebraska.  She passed away at Colonial Acres, Humboldt, NE on May 20, 2021 at the age of 97.
Surviving Alodyne are her children, Dan (Sandy) Parks, Sandee (Ron) Ballou and Mike Parks; Grandchildren Dion (Rebecca) Parks, their children, Alaina Alodyne and Holly; Tyson (Kari) Parks, their children Tucker and Palmer; Cassie (Ross) Eickhoff, and their children Lincoln and Carrick; Michaela Parks and Grace Parks; sisters-in-law Minnie Louise Binder and Mary Dovel; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial services 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 29, 2021 at Salem U.C.C. Church, rural Steinauer, Nebraska. Officiating Pastor Eric Biehl.
Visitation on Friday, May 28, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  
The service will also be lived-streamed on the Wherry Mortuary/Monument Facebook page for those unable not attend. 
Inurnment at Salem U.C.C. Cemetery, rural Steinauer, Nebraska.
Memorials to family choice.
Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com. 
Services entrusted with Wherry Mortuary, Pawnee City, Nebraska.
 

Richard Eugene Bacon, 73, of Humboldt, Nebraska was born to Robert Lloyd and Viola (Rader) Oakley Ruby on February 5, 1947 in Auburn, Nebraska.  He received his early education in Brock until moving to Auburn in 1962 and graduated from Auburn High School in 1965.  Rich worked for Armstrong’s Dairy Queen in Auburn part- time through school.   He attended Peru State College where he received a Bachelor’s Degree of Fine Arts in Art and Industrial Arts in 1973.  His first teaching position was at Humboldt Public Schools where Richard taught art and shop at Humboldt for 37 years.  Rich received his master’s degree in Art Education at Northwest Missouri State in 1986 and retired from Humboldt-Table Rock-Steinauer Schools in 2010.   He was united in marriage to Mary Sherman of Peru, on Nov. 4. 1966 at the Auburn Christian Church in Auburn, Nebraska.  The couple made their home in Auburn and Humboldt.  Rich was a member of the Auburn Christian Church.

Rich loved working with young people and coaching softball and baseball for many years.  He also enjoyed keeping stats at games, watching sports, collecting baseball cards, painting and drawing.  For many years, Rich drew the beautiful scenes portrayed on the backdrop for the Richardson County Fair.  He built their home in Auburn and later remodeled their home in Humboldt.  Rich also worked for the Auburn Newspapers for 29 years, did sign painting throughout his teaching career and other various jobs.  He was honored to the Richardson County Fair King in 1994 and was a member of the Nebraska Softball Hall of Fame and the Quad County Museum.  Rich passed away on Friday, September 4, 2020, at the Stormont Vail Medical Center in Topeka, Kansas having reached the earthly age of seventy-three years, six months and thirty days.  He is preceded in death by his father and mother.

Rich is survived by his loving wife Mary Bacon of Humboldt, sons: Jeffrey Bacon of Pawnee City, Matthew Bacon of San Padro, CA; step-grandchildren: Angel Oakley of Manhattan, KS; Carly Salak of West Point, NE; Matt Steinblock of Bennet, NE; brothers: Robert Bacon of Nebraska City, Charles Bacon and wife Shelly of Lincoln and Ronald Bacon of Lincoln, sisters: Rogene McMullen and husband Richard of Genesco, IL; Rosamary Moore of Springfield, MO; Linda Wallen and husband Craig of McCook, NE;  step-mother Kinuko Jean Bacon of McCook, NE; 7 step great-grandchildren, special friends Dan, Vicki, Jakob and Joshua Manning, and other nieces, nephews, relatives and many former students and softball players from days gone by.

A Celebration of Richard's Life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 29, 2021 at the Hall Funeral Chapel, 707 15th Street in Auburn, Nebraska with Pastor Tom Osborne officiating.  Inurnment will immediately follow services at Mount Vernon Cemetery in Peru, Nebraska.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Friday, May 28, 2021, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska.  Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary.

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

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

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

On Sunday, May 23, 2021, Delus W. Ricklefs, loving husband and father of three sons, passed away in his home at the age of 86 surrounded by family.

Delus was born on April 19, 1935 in Bendena, KS to Theodore and Barbara (Franklin) Ricklefs. He was a life-long farmer and rancher of Texas Longhorns, a Biologicals, Liquid Fertilizer salesman, and served in the Army National Guard. On May 5, 1957, he married Yvonne “Bonnie” Young. They raised three sons, Ronald, Craig, and Rodney.

Delus had a passion for farm shows, collecting tractors, Blue Glass, and bird watching. He was known for his quick wit, his infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit. Delus was a life-long member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bendena, KS.

Delus was preceded in death by his father, Theodore, and his mother, Barbara. He is survived by his wife, Yvonne “Bonnie” (Young) Ricklefs; their three children, Ronald and Lisa (Wilburn) Ricklefs of Bendena, KS, Craig Ricklefs of Independence, MO, and Rodney Ricklefs and Christine Horan of Atchison, KS; six grandchildren, Rachael, Christopher, Nathan, Colby, Corey, and Austin; two great-grandchildren, Juliet and Carter; sister, Nora Ann (Ricklefs) Hibsman of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA; and several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home in Atchison, KS from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. A funeral service will be held at the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bendena, KS on Friday, May 28, 2021 at 10:00am. Memorials are suggested St. John’s Lutheran Church and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Words of comfort to family may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Shirley A. (Ragan) Clary, 83, of Troy, Kansas passed away Saturday, May 22, 2021 at a hospital in St. Joseph, Missouri. 

Shirley was born on August 4, 1937 in Kansas City, Missouri to Ethan Allen and Frances Mae (Carl)   Ragan.  She lived most of her life in Troy where she was a lunch supervisor. 

Shirley is a member of the Lutheran faith, Troy American Legion Auxiliary #55, Wathena V.F.W. Auxiliary #5531 and Ladies Christian Temperance. 

She married Gerald Clary on September 11, 1955 in Troy.  He preceded her in death on November 5, 1987.  Shirley was also preceded by 2 sons; Ray Eugene and Danny Clary, 3 grandsons; Joseph, Travis and Andrew Clary, great-granddaughter, Blaine Clary. 

She is survived by her children; Walter Clary (Mary Kaye) of Troy 

           Rick Clary (Amy) of Wathena, Kansas 

           Larry Clary (Sharon) of St. Joseph, Missouri 

           David Clary (Rose) of Troy 

          Sharon Gentry (Ron) of Wathena, Kansas 

       Brother, Pat Ragan of Portland, Oregon 

       14  grandchildren,   numerous  great-grandchildren 

FUNERAL: Thursday, May 26, 2021 – 2:00 P.M.   

             At: Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Troy 

         Visitation: family will receive friends Wednesday evening 6-8 where friends may call after 12 NOON Wednesday. 

            Burial: Mount Olive Cemetery in Troy 

         Memorials: Troy Pioneer Center C-2  

              www.harmanrohde.com  

Frances V. (Tomlinson) Johnstone, 105, passed away Saturday, November 21, 2020 at the Eastridge Nursing Facility in Centralia, Kansas. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; her son, Phil; three brothers and three sisters, and many dear friends. Frances is survived by her daughter, Jacque (Dave) Lierz of Fulshear, Texas, and their three daughters, Phil’s two daughters, eight great grandchildren, and her nieces and nephews. 

A Memorial service will be held Saturday, June 5, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. at the Centralia Community Church - West.  Memorial contributions can be made to Centralia Community Church or Eastridge Nursing Home, sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle Street, Seneca, Kansas 66538.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

James Clement Sudbeck, 73, of Bern, Kansas died on May 20, 2021 at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.

Jim was born in Axtell, Kansas on August 20, 1947, the first child of Clemens Carl and Cyrilla Bertha (Bergman) Sudbeck.  He graduated from St. Mary’s High School in St. Benedict with the Class of 1965. As a young man he joined the Marysville National Guard and was deployed to Vietnam. Upon his return he farmed alongside his father.  

On January 10, 1970 he married Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Schmits at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. The couple made their home and raised their children on the farm they purchased from his parents five miles West of Bern, where they raised crops and cattle. The couple was blessed with 51 years of marriage.

Jim drove a school bus for 19 years within the Bern and Nemaha Central school districts where he was proud to be part of the “team.” He also served on St. Mary’s Catholic Church Financial Committee and Church Council, as well as coached his children’s baseball teams.

Jim volunteered his time with the American Legion Firing Squad at numerous local funerals and took great pride in continuing to serve his country in this role. Above all Jim was most passionate and found his calling within the AA community celebrating 35 years of sobriety in April of 2021. He regularly attended meetings making several lifelong friends and helping countless others in their recovery. Jim truly believed in living one day at a time. Jim served on the Advisory Board for Valley Hope of Atchison for over 20 years.

Jim was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Charles F. Fankhauser Post 326 of the American Legion in Bern and the Seneca Memorial Post #7458 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

He enjoyed attending his kids and grandkid’s events where he was rarely seen without his lawn chair and a cold Diet Pepsi.  Jim was very proud of the accomplishments of each of his children, grandchildren, son-in-law & daughters-in-law. There are so many things that will be missed by his family, but just to list a few: smarties in church, buckets of bubble gum, westerns on the tv, Gator rides, games of cribbage and his onery streak.

He is survived by his wife, Betty of Bern; his daughter, Dana (Bryce) Bradley of Seneca; sons, Darren (Denese) Sudbeck of Hebron, NE and Curt (Mindy) Sudbeck of St. Benedict; 10 grandchildren; Kelsey, Zachary (fiancé Shelby Bruna), Caleb Bradley; Elizabeth, Murphy, Quinlan, and Joselyn Sudbeck; Kanin, Adrian, and Brynne Sudbeck. Siblings, Richard (Betty) Sudbeck of Seneca, Kathryn (Richard) Heinen of Wetmore, Kenneth (Ellen) Sudbeck of Seneca, Donald (Nancy) Sudbeck of Seneca, Jeanne (the late Nick) Holthaus of Seneca, and John (Theresa) Sudbeck of Seneca.

Rosaries will be prayed on Monday, May 24th 2 & 7 pm at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, May 25th, 10 AM in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be left in Jim’s memory to St. Mary’s Church Electrical Fund and/or Valley Hope of Atchison.

Aleta Rae Harris, 80 of Atchison, KS, passed away Thursday, May 20, 2021 at her home.

Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Tuesday May 25, 2021 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS with Rev. Stephen Lucas officiating.  Burial will follow at the Oak Hill Cemetery.  Family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 PM prior to the service at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to Faith Bible Fellowship Church or American Heart Association and may be sent in care of the funeral home.  Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Aleta was born January 15, 1941 in Oelwein, IA, the daughter of Lester and Helen (Brant) Sinclair.  She graduated from ACCHS in 1960.  Aleta was a homemaker and babysitter for majority of her life but had also worked as a CNA at Gran Villa for fifteen years.  She was a member of the Faith Bible Fellowship Church, Atchison, KS and enjoyed spending time with grandchildren.  

Aleta married James Harris on June 24, 1962; he preceded her on July 10, 2004. 

Survivors include a son Jim and Denise Harris, Olathe, KS, two sisters, Margaret Wiley, Horton, KS, Priscilla Hill, Atchison, KS and a son in law Donald Rasdall, Atchison, KS, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

She was also preceded by her parents, a daughter Kathie Rasdall, two brothers, John Paul and Roger Sinclair, three sisters, Dorothy Darlene, Mary Jeannette and her twin sister Anita Evans.

Melvin “Mel” Lee Garner, 71, passed away peacefully at his home in Fairview, Kansas on Thursday, May 20, 2021 after an extended illness.  

He was born on May 13, 1950, to parents, Ben and Katherine (Cotton) Garner, in Houston, Texas.  His mother and step-father, Roland “Jack” Bellis moved the family to Westminster, Colorado, when Mel was a young boy.  During his school years, he enjoyed sports, music, and his many friends.  He graduated from Ranum High School with the class of 1969.  During his early adult years, Mel tried his hand at various jobs including construction and drywall work, and then began his machining career at Sunstrand Aviation in Denver, Colorado.

Mel met Cheryl Campbell in Pueblo, Colorado, and they were married in Axtell, Kansas on December 27, 1986.  After their daughter, Lindsey, came into their lives, they wanted to live closer to family, to both enjoy and deepen family ties.  Mel was hired for a machining position with Wenger Manufacturing in Sabetha, Kansas.  So, they moved from Colorado to Fairview, Kansas in July, 1989.  He continued to work at Wenger’s for 13 years until illness forced a change.  He was also employed at Koch & Co. in Seneca, Kansas for a brief time following his employment at Wenger Mfg.

Mel was a strong man with a big heart, hard-working, fun-loving, always with a smile, and more than a hint of mischief.  He was always guaranteed to make you laugh from one of his stories or jokes.  He could, and would, talk to anybody about anything.  Mel was proud, mostly of his family, but also a little bit about himself.  He enjoyed good food, Diet Pepsi, music, watching sports, and playing Xbox.  Throughout the challenges and adventures of life and illness, he continued every day with a positive attitude, determination and humor, always giving his best and never complaining.  He is lovingly remembered and sadly missed.

Preceding Mel in death are his beloved daughter, Lindsey, November 9, 2008; his father; his mother and step-father; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Barbara Cain Campbell.

Surviving Mel are his wife, Cheryl, of the home; his sisters- and brothers-in-law and love, Cindy Jones of Seneca, Kansas, Carla and David Fairfield of Waukee, Iowa, and Angie and Mark Pippia of Axtell, Kansas; his special nieces and nephews, Nathan (Rachel) Jones, Jeremy (Chelsea) Jones, McKenna (Loren) Hulsing, Evan (Tejal) Fairfield, Kelsey Fairfield (Steve Fugate), Russ (Kate) Fairfield, Michelle Miller (Tommy Smoot), Andrea Pippia (Jared Malcolm), and Jessica Pippia (David Kimmel); his cousins; and many great-nieces and nephews.  

It was Mel’s wish to finish his journey quietly and simply.  To honor and respect his wishes, cremation is planned with a private family service at a later date in the Rosehill Cemetery in Axtell, Kansas. 

A memorial book will be available from Wednesday, June 2, 2021 to Friday, June 4, 2021 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha, Kansas.  Mel’s friends are asked and encouraged to leave a thought or memory of Mel, or simply to sign his memorial book. 

Memorial contributions will be designated at a later date and may be sent to Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas  66534.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com

Melvin “Mel” Lee Garner, 71, passed away peacefully at his home in Fairview, Kansas on Thursday, May 20, 2021 after an extended illness.  

He was born on May 13, 1950, to parents, Ben and Katherine (Cotton) Garner, in Houston, Texas.  His mother and step-father, Roland “Jack” Bellis moved the family to Westminster, Colorado, when Mel was a young boy.  During his school years, he enjoyed sports, music, and his many friends.  He graduated from Ranum High School with the class of 1969.  During his early adult years, Mel tried his hand at various jobs including construction and drywall work, and then began his machining career at Sunstrand Aviation in Denver, Colorado.

Mel met Cheryl Campbell in Pueblo, Colorado, and they were married in Axtell, Kansas on December 27, 1986.  After their daughter, Lindsey, came into their lives, they wanted to live closer to family, to both enjoy and deepen family ties.  Mel was hired for a machining position with Wenger Manufacturing in Sabetha, Kansas.  So, they moved from Colorado to Fairview, Kansas in July, 1989.  He continued to work at Wenger’s for 13 years until illness forced a change.  He was also employed at Koch & Co. in Seneca, Kansas for a brief time following his employment at Wenger Mfg. 

Mel was a strong man with a big heart, hard-working, fun-loving, always with a smile, and more than a hint of mischief.  He was always guaranteed to make you laugh from one of his stories or jokes.  He could, and would, talk to anybody about anything.  Mel was proud, mostly of his family, but also a little bit about himself.  He enjoyed good food, Diet Pepsi, music, watching sports, and playing Xbox.  Throughout the challenges and adventures of life and illness, he continued every day with a positive attitude, determination and humor, always giving his best and never complaining.  He is lovingly remembered and sadly missed.

Preceding Mel in death are his beloved daughter, Lindsey, November 9, 2008; his father; his mother and step-father; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Barbara Cain Campbell.

Surviving Mel are his wife, Cheryl, of the home; his sisters- and brothers-in-law and love, Cindy Jones of Seneca, Kansas, Carla and David Fairfield of Waukee, Iowa, and Angie and Mark Pippia of Axtell, Kansas; his special nieces and nephews, Nathan (Rachel) Jones, Jeremy (Chelsea) Jones, McKenna (Loren) Hulsing, Evan (Tejal) Fairfield, Kelsey Fairfield (Steve Fugate), Russ (Kate) Fairfield, Michelle Miller (Tommy Smoot), Andrea Pippia (Jared Malcolm), and Jessica Pippia (David Kimmel); his cousins; and many great-nieces and nephews.  

It was Mel’s wish to finish his journey quietly and simply.  To honor and respect his wishes, cremation is planned with a private family service at a later date in the Rosehill Cemetery in Axtell, Kansas.  A memorial book will be available from Wednesday, June 2, 2021 to Friday, June 4, 2021 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha, Kansas.  Mel’s friends are asked and encouraged to leave a thought or memory of Mel, or simply to sign his memorial book.  Memorial contributions will be designated at a later date and may be sent to Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas  66534.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com

Gladys Marie Hunninghake Kongs, 97, of Seneca, Kansas died on, May 20, 2021 at Nemaha Valley Community Hospital.

Gladys was born in Baileyville on December 12, 1923, to Joseph and Rose Dick Hunninghake; and grew up on a farm north of Baileyville.  Gladys attended school in Baileyville, graduating from high school. Gladys continued to pursue her education at business school in Topeka and then was employed for the County Clerk’s Office in Lawrence.

On August 13, 1949 Gladys married John Robert Kongs at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. After their marriage, she was a homemaker and a “stay at home” Mom for their two daughters, while they lived in Kansas City and Michigan.

After 1973, John and Gladys moved back to Seneca to helped John’s mother operate the movie theater, which had been in their family since 1920 --- the Royal Theater. In 1991, John and Gladys sold the theater to Ray Hunninghake and retired. On August 13, 2009, Gladys and John moved to Topeka to be closer to their daughter, Laura. Gladys returned to Seneca after John’s death, on October 26, 2018, and made her home at Crestview Nursing & Residential Living.  

Gladys enjoyed playing bridge, baking, cooking, playing scratch tickets, politics and loved taking her granddaughter to play bingo when they visited.   

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Lester Hunninghake on May 21, 2013, Henry Hunninghake on July 10, 1994 and Elmer Hunninghake on October 4, 2012.

Gladys was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.

Gladys is survived by her two daughters, Janet (Andy) Hickman of Bellaire, Michigan and Laura (Phyllis Sanderholm) of Omaha; two granddaughters; and 3 great-granddaughters.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Gladys will be at 2 PM on Monday, May 24, 2021 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Baileyville.  A rosary will be prayed at 1:30 PM prior to the Mass. 

Burial was in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Baileyville.

Memorials for Gladys will be designated at a later date.

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

Mary Elizabeth Ward Gilmore  December 8, 1922 ~ May 19, 2021

 Mary was born in Highland, Kansas to Charles Edgar Ward and Addie Idella Noll Ward.  She grew up in Highland and after graduating from Highland Junior College completed her Bachelor's Degree at Kansas University in Lawrence.  While at KU majoring in journalism, she continued her life-long love of music by playing the piano for her friends and sorority sisters at Alpha Delta Pi.  She even accompanied the New York City Rockettes when they toured in Lawrence during WWII.  After graduating from KU in 1944, Mary moved to Los Angeles to work at Douglas Aircraft in the photograph reconnaissance laboratory.

 Following the end of WWII, Mary returned to Highland to marry her fiancé, Byron Harold Gilmore who was also born and raised in Highland.   The young couple moved to Topeka so that Byron could complete his college degree at Washburn.  Having been a pilot during the war, Byron elected to continue flying as a member of the newly formed United States Air Force after graduation, and Mary began her new career as a military wife and mother making a home for her family wherever they went.  While moving was challenging, it also offered opportunities including visiting many historical sites in Turkey, southern and western Europe, and northern Africa.  After living in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania for over 20 years following Byron's retirement, they decided to return to Kansas and moved to Brandon Woods in Lawrence in 1996.

 In addition to a talent for music, Mary had a green thumb and enjoyed inviting the wild birds to her garden and arranging the flowers she grew for which she won numerous ribbons.  She also loved cats and playing bridge belonging to several clubs at a time.

 Mary is survived by her sister-in-law, Helen Marie Gilmore Boyd of Missoula, Montana; her daughter, Patricia Louise Raby of Spokane, Washington; her son, Charles Byron Gilmore of Lawrence, Kansas; a grandson, Gordon Gilmore Raby and a granddaughter, Victoria Elizabeth Raby both of Spokane, Washington as well as her nieces and nephews.

 Interment will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 24, 2021 at the Highland Cemetery in Highland, KS.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s ’s name to The Lied Center in Lawrence, KS and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

For more information or to post a condolence go to warrenmcelwain.com.

Edna Mae Wolters, age 95, of Atchison, Kansas, passed away Monday, May 17, 2021 at Vintage Park in Atchison.

Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, May 22, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Benedict Church with Rev. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Parish rosary will be recited on Friday, May 21st at 6:00 p.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 7:30 p.m. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Parish, Mount St. Scholastica or Maur Hill-Mount Academy and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.  

Edna Mae was born on March 29, 1926, in El Dorado, Kansas, the daughter of James C. and Florence (Killion) Morley. She attended and graduated high school from Mount St. Scholastica Academy in Atchison.

She and William H. “Bill” Wolters, Jr. were united in marriage on June 10, 1950, at St. Benedict Church in Atchison. They welcomed their daughter Stephanie in 1959, to complete their family. They shared sixty-five years together before Mr. Wolters preceded her in death on October 14, 2015.

Edna Mae above all things was a wonderful homemaker and mother. She was a lifelong member of St. Benedict Parish, the church Altar Society, the church choir and served as a Eucharistic Minister for many years. She gave countless contributions of her time and love to her church and previously served as the secretary and bookkeeper. Edna Mae enjoyed playing bridge at the mount roundelay.

She is survived by her daughter, Stephanie (Max Fleming) Wolters, Addison, TX; niece, Karen LaPlant, Buffalo, MN; nephew, Rick Morley, Cross Lake, MN; sisters-in-law, Roberta Wolters, Catherine (Jim) Lahey, Gere Greene, Terry Wolters, Sr. Dorothy Wolters, OSB, Theresa (Ray) Miller; brother-in-law, Mike (Connie) Wolters; and numerous additional nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; step-mother, Anne Morley; husband, Bill; brother, Jim Morley; and two nephews, Mike and Dave Morley; brothers-in-law, John, Phil and Tom Wolters; sister-in-law, Margaret Mary Johannes and countless other Morley, Killion and Wolters family members.

Joelline La Vaun (Wikle) Stoller was born on June 10, 1934 at Sabetha, Kansas and passed away on May 19, 2021 at age 86. She was the daughter of Addison Willer Wikle and Minnie Pearl (Fisher) Wikle. Her early years were spent on a farm 3 ½ miles east of Sabetha and she attended Eagle Country School. She moved with her parents into Sabetha in 1944. She graduated from Sabetha High School in 1951. She attended a technical school in Omaha and then worked in civil service for the Air Force in Dayton, Ohio and Rome, New York.

She was married to Glen Robert Stoller on June 14, 1953. To this union were born three children, Robert Glen, David Lee, and Sue Ann Baumgartner.

She studied piano with Miss Pauline Fisher as a child and returned to her for further instruction in teaching piano as well as attending several workshops at Washburn University and Wichita State University. She taught individual piano lessons in her home for over 40 years and was a member of the Northeast Piano Teachers Association. She always enjoyed working with young people.

She was a member of the First Congregational Church, now known as NorthRidge, in Sabetha. She was a past president of the Women’s Fellowship and assisted May Wines in teaching the Junior High Sunday School class for many years. She was also a long-time member of the church choir.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Glen; and her six brothers, Baxter, Vernon, Lesley, Guy, Rayburn, and Hobart Wikle.

She is survived by her three children; her eight grandchildren, Gwen (Stoller) Morgan and Amanda Stoller, Matt and Mark Stoller, Darin, Steven, Delaney, and Sally Baumgartner; her two great-grandchildren, Abigail and Henry Morgan; and her many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, May 24, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at NorthRidge church in Sabetha, Kansas. A visitation will be held on Sunday, May 23, 2021 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, Kansas. The interment will be in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Cotton Public Library in Sabetha sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com

Jean M. Burdett Lackey was born at Wakefield, Kansas on September 30, 1921, and departed this earth on May 19, 2021 in Seneca, Kansas.  She was born the daughter of Albert Philip and Ada Mae Clayton Berlin and graduated from Wakefield High School in 1939.  Following high school, she studied nursing  at Christ Hospital, (later becoming Stormont-Vail Hospital) in Topeka.  She graduated as a registered nurse in 1943.

On September 4, 1943, Jean married John W. Burdett at Centralia, Kansas.  Jean worked in base hospitals while John was serving in the Navy. She learned to be a farm wife when they returned to Centralia to raise their family.  Jean did some special duty nursing at the Seneca Hospital and worked as the school nurse for school district #380. 

After John passed away on March 30, 1983, Jean continued to reside on the edge of Centralia.  On April 14, 1986 she married Raphael J. “Ray” Lackey, moving to Seneca.  Ray died on April 14, 1993.

Jean was a member of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church of Seneca and St. Ann’s Altar Society and was a former member of the United Church of Christ in Centralia where she served in various offices of the church Women’s Fellowship organization and was a Sunday school teacher.  She was also a member of Lis’ N Learn Extension Unit and other clubs in Centralia and the Harmony Homemakers Extension Unit in Seneca. For many years, Jean volunteered at the Red Cross Blood Mobile at Seneca, and in 1996, assisted in organizing the Cancer Support Group.  

Jean will be remembered as: devoted to her family, a caring neighbor, sending many encouraging notes and greeting cards, enjoying reading local newspapers, and interested in community activities, especially those medically related.

Jean is survived by her children, with John, Kathy (Harry) Steinfort, Bill (Jeanniene) Burdett, Barbara (Neil) Shea, and Ellen (Steve) Walker.  She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren.  Additionally, she is survived by Ray’s children, Jim (Arlene) Lackey, Gary (Betty) Lackey and Mary Grace (Ron) Boland who adopted her into the Lackey family, providing her with countless opportunities to enjoy one family or the other throughout many years.

Jean was predeceased by her parents, two sisters, Betty King Amburg and Phyllis Trautwein, two brothers, George Berlin and Robert Berlin, two husbands, one grandchild, and one great-great grandchild. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 AM on Monday, May 24th at Sts.Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.  Burial will be in the Centralia City Cemetery.  A visitation will be held at Lauer Funeral Home on Sunday, May 23rd from 5PM to 8PM; with the Rosary being prayed at 7 PM.

Memorials will be designated at a later date. 

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

 Larry Dean Redmond, 81, of Wathena, Kansas passed away Monday, May 17, 2021 at a nursing home in Hiawatha, Kansas. 

Larry was born on September 6, 1939 in Wathena, Kansas to Harry and Myrtle (Jones) Redmond.   

Larry graduated Bendena High School in 1957 and then served in the U.S. Navy from 1957 to 1961. He worked for Quaker Oats for 30 years and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Wathena, Kansas. 

He married Almeda Ruark on June 7, 1963 in St. Joseph, Missouri. She survives.  Larry was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Virginia Redmond and Betty Blair and brother-in-law, Richard Johnson. 

Additional survivors include his children; Larry Redmond II (Jeane’), Basehor, Kansas 

                                                                       Renee Clary (Jeff) of Troy, Kansas 

 Grandchildren, Bailey Freeman (Adam), Brooke Scott (Matt), Amanda Clary (Fiancé, Jared Deeken), and Aimee Clary. 

Sisters, Darlyne Johnson of Bendena, Kansas and Lois Waldron (Leroy), Gladstone, Missouri. 

Numerous nieces and nephews 

FUNERAL: 10:30 A.M. Friday, May 21, 2021 

           At the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena, Kansas 

          Burial: Bellemont Cemetery in Wathena 

       Visitation: family will receive friends from 6-8 P.M. Thursday evening at the funeral home. Friends may call after 9 A.M. Thursday. 

         Memorials: Wathena EMS 

                    www.harmanrohde.com 

Graveside memorial services for Bonnie Reetz, of Hiawatha, will be held at 11 a.m. May 24, 2021, at Mount Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.  Pastor Darlene Sheffer, of Zion United Methodist Church, will officiate.   Inurnment will follow.

Bonnie passed away on May 2, 2021 at Amberwell Hospital in Hiawatha, KS, surrounded by family.

The Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, in Hiawatha, is in charge of the arrangements.

Norma “Jean” Dreyer Vandorn, 87, of Vliets, Kansas, peacefully passed on from this life on Tuesday morning, May 18, 2021 surrounded by family.

Visitation will be Sunday, May 23, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Padden Funeral Chapel in Frankfort. The family will receive friends from 3 to 6 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, May 24 at Salem Lutheran Church near Axtell.

Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Jean was born on May 5, 1934, in Jeffersonville, Indiana, daughter of Norman and Mena Dreyer of Sellersburg, Indiana. She had an older brother Bill and a younger brother, Stan, both deceased. She grew up on a dairy farm and enjoyed training Jersey cows to show at fairs. Graduating in 1952 from Silver Creek High School, she attended DePauw University, in Greencastle, Indiana, for one year, then graduated as an R.N. from Chicago Wesley Memorial Hospital in 1956.

On March 1, 1958, she married Wendell Vandorn, of Frankfort, Kansas, on March 1, 1958 at Sellersburg, Indiana. They settled into their farm in Vliets, Kansas. To this union were born Brian (Kelly) Vandorn, Johnson, VT, Kristin (Roger) Simpson, Double Oak, TX, and Eric Vandorn, deceased. Grandchildren of “Granny Jean” are Ben, Anchorage, AK, Jacob, Kaeti, and Colin Vandorn, Johnson, VT, Jonas and Harley Simpson, Double Oak, TX, and Rebecca (Travis) Werthmann, Strasburg, CO; great grandchildren are Alexus and Oliver Werthmann, Strasburg, CO, Bernie and Alice Vandorn, Gary and Eileen Johnson, and Ellen Dreyer; brothers-in-laws and sisters-in-law, cousins, nephews, nieces, great nephews, and nieces live in many states.

Jean was a very devoted wife and mother who loved unconditionally and gave freely to others. She loved her partnership with Wendell on the farm and being a homemaker. She had many good friends and enjoyed visiting, music, reading, travel and making baby quilts. She was an active member of Salem Lutheran Church (Axtell, KS) and in the Salem ELCW, and she sang in the choir for many years. She enjoyed volunteer work at the Marshall County Blood Mobile and Habitat for Humanity and enjoyed attending local High School sporting events and programs.

She was known for her smile, kindness, sincerity, caring and as a supportive encourager. She was like a mother to many. A great number of people were blessed by her dedicated life of service and now by her memory.

A memorial fund has been established to Habitat for Humanity or the Salem Lutheran Church Altar Fund. Contributions may be sent in care of Padden Funeral Chapel.

Mark Edward Dunavan, 59, of Hiawatha, was born September 10, 1961 and passed into heaven May 17, 2021, at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka, KS

A celebration of Mark’s eternal life is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, May 22, 2021, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha, with Pastor Mike Dunaway officiating.  Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha, with military honors a courtesy of the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Friday.  The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services Saturday.

Mark was born in Falls City, Nebraska, the only child of George and Rita (Niemeyer) Dunavan.  He lived in the Hiawatha area his entire life where he attended schools, graduated from Hiawatha High School with the class of 1979.  He was active in Boy Scouts and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.  He later graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Washburn University in Topeka.  

Mark served his country in the United States Air Force, at the start of Iraq Freedom.  His duties as First Lieutenant was launch officer for Minuteman II missiles before being discharged after six years of service.  He later served with the 2 BN 130th FA, Kansas Army National Guard in Hiawatha, discharged as sergeant in 2004.  Mark worked for the city of Hiawatha in the wastewater department and later for the State of Kansas Department of Corrections before retiring due to health concerns.  He still found time to be a ham radio operator, like his dad.

He was a member at Zion Lutheran Church in Hiawatha where he was active on the Church boards.

Survivors include his mother Rita Dunavan of Hiawatha, as well as his daughters who were his greatest joy and source of pride, Alicia Dunavan of Spokane, WA, Savannah Dunavan of Omaha, NE.  Also surviving are many neighbors, relatives, and friends.

Mark is preceded in death by his father George.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Zion Lutheran Church Memorial Fund or Brown County Veterans Honor Guard, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434.

MASKS ARE REQUESTED

A special message or remembrance may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com   which also includes Livestreaming site

Deanne (Hitchcock) Bahr, 66, of Falls City, NE, passed away May 17, 2021 at Lincoln, NE. She was born march 24, 1955 at Falls City to Dean and Janice (Lehew) Hitchcock.

She married Gary Bahr on July 1, 1977 at Verdon, NE.

Deanne was raised at Verdon and graduated Dawson-Verdon High School in 1973. When married the couple established their home in Falls City. She worked at Sac and Fox for many years and also worked for Kawres as well. She retired in 2017. She had a green thumb and loved gardening, sewing and most of all, her grandchildren. She was a member of Verdon Christian Church.

Deanne is survived by her husband, Gary, daughters, Tiffany Godemann and her husband Todd, Melinda Dorste and her husband Aaron all of Falls City, brother, Phil Hitchcock of Verdon, grandchildren, Hailey and Haiden Dorste, Delaney and Hadley Godemann. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at 11:30 AM at Falls City Elks Lodge. Inurnment will be in Verdon Cemetery.

A book will be available to sign at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home during regular business hours.

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

Sharon Lynn Fitzpatrick, 77, Lawrence, Kansas died unexpectedly Saturday, May 15, 2021 at her residence.

Sharon will be cremated.  A visitation with the family will be Thursday, May 20, 2021 in the chapel of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home from 10:00 until Noon.

Sharon was born November 20, 1943 in Atchison, Kansas the daughter of Elmer and Luella Fleiner Fitzpatrick.  She attended schools in Sumner and Oak Mills Communities south of Atchison.

Sharon was employed in the cafeteria of the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas until her retirement.

In her spare time Sharon enjoyed listening to country music; reading; doing word search puzzles; watching soap operas and taking relaxing walks.

Survivors include two sons, Robert (Tina) Fitzpatrick, Atchison, KS; Anshel Bomberger, Georgetown, CO; two daughters, Lori Fitzpatrick, Lawrence, KS; Shawn Smith-Murphy, Titusville, FL; four brothers, Howard, Gary, Walter and David Fitzpatrick; seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a grandson, Robert Murphy, a brother, Victor Fitzpatrick and three sisters, Annie Bledsoe, Linda Lavaco and Becky Goodpasture.

Gerald George Hammes, 91, of Seneca, Kansas, passed away on May 16, 2021 at Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca, with his family by his side.

Gerald was born on November 11, 1929 to Lawrence & Cora (Cornelia Stallbaumer) Hammes at their home southeast of Baileyville, Kansas. He was the 2nd oldest of 12 children. Gerald attended school in Baileyville and graduated from the 8th Grade in 1943. After graduation, he stayed home and worked on the family farm and helped his father with his custom corn shelling business.

Gerald joined the Army National Guard, Battery “A” 154th Field Artillery Battalion, in 1948. He was honorably discharged in 1955 as a Master Sergeant.

On February 27, 1954 he married Cleta Mae Lierz at St. Augustine’s Church in Fidelity, Kansas. She preceded him in death on February 9, 2005. He spent many of Cleta’s later years caring for her as she suffered with Parkinson’s disease. They lived west of Seneca on their farm since 1968. He was a grain farmer and also raised livestock. Gerald loved farming the land and retired from that in 2000.

After retirement, Gerald’s favorite pastimes were mowing with his “Grasshopper” and joining his friends each morning for coffee at the local McDonald’s. He entered Life Care of Seneca in October 2017.

Gerald was a member of Sacred Heart Church in Baileyville, Kansas. He was a choir member for 27 years, a Eucharistic minister for 17 years, on the Parish Council for 3 years, and served at weekday Masses. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Besides his wife Cleta, he was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence (1993) and Cora (1975); a brother, Donald (1967); and sisters Dorothy Bergman Schraad (2017) and Cleta Mae Haverkamp (2020).

He is survived by his seven children: LuAnn Roth (Bill) of Paxico, Marlene Wessel (Bob) of Seneca, Joan Glissman (Ron) of Centralia, Ellen Laird (Mark) of Topeka, Bob Hammes (Mary) of Hoyt, Mike Hammes of Topeka, and Tricia Hammes of Shawnee; five brothers, Alvin, Galen, Leo, and Kenneth all of Seneca, and Larry of Topeka; three sisters, Bernice Heiman of Baileyville, Mary Rose Feuerborn of Richmond, and Jeanette Becker of Seneca; 18 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 6 step great-grandchildren, and 2 step great-great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, May 19, 2021, at the Sacred Heart Church in Baileyville. Burial with military honors will follow at the Sacred Heart Cemetery. Rosaries will be prayed at 2 and 7 P.M. on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca.

Memorials may be left in his memory to Sacred Heart Church, Baileyville, sent in care of the family.

Lammert Christopher DeJonge, 99, of Humboldt, Nebraska was born on April 15, 1922, in Ostfriesland, Germany to Eibo and Elise (Schmidt) DeJonge.  As a young boy, Lammert’s family moved from Germany to a farm near Hildreth, Nebraska where he attended country school.  In 1936, his family moved to rural Humboldt where Lammert worked for neighbors and other farmers.  On June 15, 1949, Lammert was united in marriage to Emma Lee King at the Chritian Church in Humboldt by Rev. C.W. Long.  The couple lived on a farm northeast of Humboldt after their marriage and then moved to the farm northwest of Humboldt.  They lived at that farm many years before moving to town after they retired.  Lammert and Emma Lee were members of Faith Lutheran Church in Humboldt.

Lammert passed away on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, at the Colonial Acres Nursing Home in Humboldt, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of ninety-nine years and twenty-seven days.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Emma Lee, brothers George (Lucille) DeJonge and Ommo (Marilyn) DeJonge, nephews David and Leland DeJonge and sister-in-law Edna DeJonge.

Lammert is survived by his brother Ed DeJonge of Humboldt, NE; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 20, 2021, at the Faith Lutheran Church in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Tim Llewellyn officiating.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 19, 2021, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska.

Interment will follow services at the Humboldt Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Faith Lutheran Church.

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

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

Linda Marie (Wenzl) Kalin 59 of Burchard, Nebraska passed away on Friday, May 14 in Lincoln, Nebraska. She was born on June 23, 1961 to David and Jean Marie (Brunn) Wenzl in Lincoln, Nebraska.

She is survived by her loving husband Patrick Kalin of Burchard, NE, father David Wenzl of Steinauer, NE, stepchildren, Michelle Gray of Shelby, NE, Matthew (Alyssa) Kalin of Lincoln, NE, grandchildren, Jaxson Gray of Shelby, NE, Chase & Alexis Kalin of Lincoln, NE, sisters, Kristi Rears of Tecumseh, NE, Jane (John) Kress of Steinauer, NE, aunts, uncles, nieces, cousins and other relatives.

Funeral Mass 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 21, 2021 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Steinauer, Nebraska. Officiating Father Michael Christensen. Visitation on Thursday, May 20, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Rosary on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Interment at St. Anthony’s Catholic Cemetery, Steinauer, Nebraska. Memorials to family choice. Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com 

Susan K. Mulroy, 75, of Holton, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Friday, May 14, 2021 at The Pines South near Holton.

Sue, as she preferred to be called, was born November 14, 1945 in Topeka, the daughter of Fred and Nadine Wilson Geisen.  She attended Assumption Elementary School and Hayden High School.  She was united in marriage to Patrick Mulroy, they were divorced.

She was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Mayetta.

From an early age Sue was fond of animals and was particularly keen on horses.  As a teenager she was always bringing home strays, much to her parents’ dismay.  Most of her adult life was spent living in the country, where she loved fishing, mushroom hunting, and watching her sons in their early years compete in horse shows.  Sue was a country girl through and through.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Nadine Geisen.

Survivors include two sons, Tim Mulroy (Michelle), Mayetta and Tom Mulroy (Susan), Holton; her father, Fred Geisen, Topeka; a brother, Jon Geisen (Ronda), Mayetta; two sisters, Paula George (Neal), Lawrence and Mary Headley (Charlie), San Antonio, TX.  She was particularly proud of her five grandsons, Brady, Cody, Blake, Riley and Cameron Mulroy.

Sue will lie in state after noon Wednesday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Holton, where a Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, followed by visitation until 8:00 p.m.  Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday at the funeral home, with burial to follow in St. Joseph Cemetery at Hoyt.  Memorials are suggested to the Heart of Jackson Humane Society or Holton Community Hospital Hospice, and may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 1034, Holton, KS  66436. On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com  
 

Donald Edward Higley, 91, of Atchison, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, May 13, 2021.

Memorial services will be held at 5:00 pm on Monday, May 17, 2021 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Rev. Jim Cormode officiating. According to Don’s wishes, he will be cremated, and the family will hold a private family burial of cremated remains at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Cummings Christian Church 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.

Don was born Feb. 17, 1930, in Cummings, KS, the son of Clarence and Viola (Mayfield) Higley. He was raised in both Cummings and Horton, KS.

Don married the love of his life, Dorothy Brun on June 26, 1953, at First Christian Church in Horton, KS. They raised one son, Gary Dean Higley, and three daughters, Cindy Higley, Cathy (Jeff) White, and Teila (Matthew) Keys, all of Atchison, KS. Their grandchildren and great grandchildren include Kea, Kilee, Emily, Elliot, Sam, Cody, Macie, Claire, Kailee, Aubrey, Romana, Ari, and Ira.

Don was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army after serving in the Korean War. He was passionate about his faith in Christ, caring for his family, high morals, and hard work. He was also a truck driver for Everest Creamery, retired truck driver of Midwest Grain Products, stock car racer, guitar player, and a perfectionist with all of life’s tasks. Don was well-known and highly admired for upholding the Gold Standard of a great man, in every aspect. Further, he always enjoyed his nightly conversations with his son, “Gary Boy.” He was a member of the Cummings Christian Church where he had served as a Deacon.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Marie, brothers Fred, Tom, and Norman, son Gary, and infant daughter Dorothea. He is survived by his wife and family members mentioned above, along with his sister, Lois Ann Lindsey, Pilot Grove, MO.

Bonnie Maxine McKee McNeil, 94, left this earth to join her Lord and Savior on May 12, 2021 at Vintage Park in Holton, KS. She was born November 16, 1926 in Pawnee City, NE, the daughter of F.S. (Freeborn Sylvester) and Bertha Louella (Buzzard) Bradney.

Bonnie attended schools in Nebraska and Kansas, graduating from Goff Rural High School in 1946. She then attended Emporia State Teachers, after which she taught school for 3 years. She worked for 4 years at the beginning of Nek-Cap program as one of the original Social Outreach Workers and later as Deputy County Clerk in Nemaha County Kansas County Clerk’s Office for 21 years, retiring January 1991.

 She married Kenneth D. McKee on May 4, 1948 in Holton, KS. They were parents of Janet Lea Zwonitzer and Jack Kent McKee. Kenneth passed away September 11, 1993. On January 7, 1997, Bonnie married Francis E. McNeil in Golden CO. He also preceded her in death on September 20, 2020.

Bonnie accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior in 1943 at the age of 16. She was an active member of the Goff United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women. She taught Sunday School and Bible School for many years, was an officer on the Goff United Methodist Church Board and UMW organization. After her marriage to Francis, she became a member of Applewood UMC and UMW in Golden, CO.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Kenneth McKee and Francis McNeil; sisters, Ruth Hill, Gladys Koch and Delores Scott and a brother, Jack Bradney.

Survivors include her daughter, Janet Lea Summers Zwonitzer of Holton, KS; son, Jack McKee (Lanette) of Netawaka, KS; step-daughter, Lynn Grimm (Stanley) of Staunton, VA; step-sons, Mark McNeil (Abby) of Newberg, OR, Michael McNeil (Patti) of Thornton, CO, Murray McNeil (Sharon) of Littleton, CO and Todd McNeil (Mary) of Morrison, CO; 8 grandchildren, Jay Summers (Kim), Mark Summers, Brett Summers (Allie), Ross Summers, Emily Zwonitzer, Kenton McKee (Amy),Nathan McKee (Angela) and Kristen Jensen (Jay); 11 step-grandchildren, Jessie McNeil (Fallon), Heather McNeil (Anna), Lisa Rein (Jon), Eleanor Hutchins (Steve), Brandon McNeil (Kenslie), Jason McNeil (Katie), Kaylin McNeil, Matthew McNeil (Kim), Tyler McNeil (Steven), Ryan McNeil and Allison McNeil; 9 great-grandchildren, Olivia, Jackson, Reid, Emma, Caylie, Kennedy, Hadley, Colt and Malory and 9 step-grandchildren, Ada Marie, Niko, Calvin, Wesley, Madeline, Lucy Rose, Luther, Kellen and Rory.

Funeral Service will be 1:00 p.m. Monday, May 17, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Fairview Cemetery in Goff, KS. Bonnie will lie in state beginning Friday afternoon. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Memorials may be given to the Goff United Methodist Church, Potawatomi United Methodist Church or Holton Community Hospital Hospice c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Clarence F. Middendorf, 99, a life-long resident of Brown County, Kansas, passed away peacefully May 3, 2021, at The Pines in Hiawatha. Clarence was born September 17, 1921 in Brown County, the youngest of four children of George and Alvina (Brockhoff) Middendorf.

He grew up near Fairview attending country school and graduating from Mulberry District # 28. Clarence spent his working life as a mechanic for Leman Motors for 31 years and then in the parts department for NEK Implement. He also served in the 2nd BN 130th FA, Kansas Army National Guard. Clarence served on the Board of Directors for the Brown County Historical Society where his legacy to the community was helping to erect and maintain Windmill Lane at the Ag Museum. He demonstrated a deep passion for history and worked to preserve the past for future generations.

His faith and family were the center of his life. Clarence was baptized February 19, 1922, and confirmed July 9, 1935 at Zion Lutheran Church, Hiawatha. During his long life, he served in numerous positions at Zion. His hobbies included woodworking, stamp collecting and his volunteer work at church and the Historical Society. We will miss is wisdom, humor, friendly nature and love of life.

Clarence was married to Esther Ruhnke on June 7, 1948. They celebrated 68 years of marriage and were blessed with three children, Karen, Judy and David. Esther passed away December 7, 2016. Clarence was also preceded in death by his parents, brothers Harold and Elmer (George), sister Ethel Mellenbruch, and daughter-in-law Nancy Middendorf.

Survivors include his children, Karen McNamee (Jim Keyser) of Portland, OR; Judy Middendorf of Fort Collins, CO; and David (Lela) Middendorf of Hiawatha, KS; Granddaughters: Jessica (Jeff) Young, Linwood, KS and Katie (Chris) Knoll, Fayetteville, NY; Step-grandchildren: Brandon (Laura) Smith of Overland Park, KS and Jenna Smith, Lincoln, NE; Great grandchildren: Haley Young, Ava Knoll, Liam Knoll and Benton Young; Step-great grandchildren: Mitchell Smith and Meredith Smith; along with many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his eternal life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on May 26, 2021 at Zion Lutheran Church in Hiawatha with Pastor Michael Dunaway officiating. Family visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, and inurnment for Clarence and Esther will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Special remembrances may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com which is also the live streaming site.

Monetary remembrances may be given to Zion Lutheran Church or the Brown County Historical Society sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434.

Clarence F. Middendorf, 99, a life-long resident of Brown County, Kansas, passed away peacefully May 3, 2021, at The Pines in Hiawatha. Clarence was born September 17, 1921 in Brown County, the youngest of four children of George and Alvina (Brockhoff) Middendorf.

He grew up near Fairview attending country school and graduating from Mulberry District # 28. Clarence spent his working life as a mechanic for Leman Motors for 31 years and then in the parts department for NEK Implement. He also served in the 2nd BN 130th FA, Kansas Army National Guard. Clarence served on the Board of Directors for the Brown County Historical Society where his legacy to the community was helping to erect and maintain Windmill Lane at the Ag Museum. He demonstrated a deep passion for history and worked to preserve the past for future generations.

His faith and family were the center of his life. Clarence was baptized February 19, 1922, and confirmed July 9, 1935 at Zion Lutheran Church, Hiawatha. During his long life, he served in numerous positions at Zion. His hobbies included woodworking, stamp collecting and his volunteer work at church and the Historical Society. We will miss is wisdom, humor, friendly nature and love of life.

Clarence was married to Esther Ruhnke on June 7, 1948. They celebrated 68 years of marriage and were blessed with three children, Karen, Judy and David. Esther passed away December 7, 2016. Clarence was also preceded in death by his parents, brothers Harold and Elmer (George), sister Ethel Mellenbruch, and daughter-in-law Nancy Middendorf.

Survivors include his children, Karen McNamee (Jim Keyser) of Portland, OR; Judy Middendorf of Fort Collins, CO; and David (Lela) Middendorf of Hiawatha, KS; Granddaughters: Jessica (Jeff) Young, Linwood, KS and Katie (Chris) Knoll, Fayetteville, NY; Step-grandchildren: Brandon (Laura) Smith of Overland Park, KS and Jenna Smith, Lincoln, NE; Great grandchildren: Haley Young, Ava Knoll, Liam Knoll and Benton Young; Step-great grandchildren: Mitchell Smith and Meredith Smith; along with many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his eternal life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on May 26, 2021 at Zion Lutheran Church in Hiawatha with Pastor Michael Dunaway officiating. Family visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, and inurnment for Clarence and Esther will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Special remembrances may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com which is also the live streaming site.

Monetary remembrances may be given to Zion Lutheran Church or the Brown County Historical Society sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434.

Dale Lloyd Clements, 91, of Holton, KS, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at Midland Hospice with family by his side. He was born August 28, 1929 in Havensville, KS, the son of Ralph “Ivan” and Florence Nell (Nicholas) Clements.

Dale graduated from Havensville High School in 1947. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1951 – 1953, during the Korean Conflict. Dale worked for Goodyear Tire Company in Topeka for over 28 years; retiring in 1992. He also worked for various road construction companies and was a farmer.

He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Holton and served on many committees; he also mowed and cared for the lawn at the church for 20 years. He was a member of Holton Cemetery Board for many years and Holton V.F.W. Post 1367. He served twice as Commander and countless hours for Holton American Legion Post 44, earning his life-time membership.

Dale married Joy Dean Hodges on March 22, 1957 in Cassoday, KS. They celebrated over 64 years of marriage.

Survivors include his wife, Joy; 2 sons, Vernon Clements (Caryn) of Overland Park, KS and Chris Clements of Manhattan, KS; 2 daughters, Ereline Clements of Kansas City, MO and Linda Clements of Topeka, KS; sister, Phyllis Clements of Denver, CO and 6 grandchildren, Luke, Joe, Matt, Jordan (wife, Jielyna), Samantha and Jackson.

Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, May 17, 2021 at the First United Methodist Church in Holton. Burial with Military Honors conducted by Holton V.F.W. Post 1367, Holton American Legion Post 44 and Kansas Army National Guard will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. Sunday afternoon at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Memorials may be given to the First United Methodist Church Memorial Fund c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Elizabeth (Betty) Jean Griebat, 78 of Hiawatha, Kansas passed away at her home surrounded by her children on Wednesday, May 12, 2021.

 Mass of a Christian Burial will be held at 10:30am, May 18, 2021 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church with burial to follow in Mount Hope Cemetery. There will be a rosary recited at 6:00 pm, Monday evening, May 17, 2021. The family will receive friends from 6:30 - 8:00 pm following the rosary at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home at 124 S 7th Street in Hiawatha, Kansas. Masks are recommended but not required. Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Monday.

Betty was born on October 5, 1942 to Richard Meiners Sr. and Helen (Joergens) Meiners at St. Mary’s Hospital in Kansas City, MO. Betty spent her childhood in Lenexa, KS and then moved to Falls City, NE when her father was transferred with Wilde Tool Company from Kansas City to Hiawatha in 1957. Betty graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Falls City in 1961. She met her husband Joe Griebat of Morrill, KS in 1963. They married June 20, 1964 and made their home in Morrill for four years before moving to Hiawatha in 1968. Betty attended Highland Community College and then went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Missouri Western State College in 1980. She earned her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in reading from Emporia State University in 1991. Betty taught for 37 years at Hiawatha Elementary School primarily as a Title 1 reading teacher for first through fourth grades. She loved teaching children to read and was passionate about her work. A feature of the Title 1 program was reading conferences, which she attended all around the country. Betty spent her entire career teaching at USD 415 School District until her retirement in May 2016.

Betty was a member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Hiawatha. She was a devoted Catholic who practiced her faith daily. She was a member of St. Ann’s Alter Society and a Eucharistic minister. She was a member of the Kansas Association of Retired School Personnel, Morrill Public Library Board of Directors, Saturday Club and played in several bridge card clubs. Betty loved spending time with her family and attending her grandchildren’s activities. She was an excellent seamstress and sewed many clothes for her children when they were young. Betty spent several years as a wonderful caregiver for her husband Joe and then her mother Helen prior to their deaths. Betty enjoyed exercising at Highland Community College and walked two miles nearly every day until recently. She also enjoyed spending time and visiting with her friends and neighbors.

Betty was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, sister-in-law, cousin and friend to many. Betty is survived by her five children; Pam Grimes (Russ) of Kansas City, MO, Becky Dunster of Lenexa, KS, Joey (Teri Jo) of Mechanicsville, IA, John (Heidi) of St. Joseph, IL and Jeb of Chanute, KS. She is also survived by 2 brothers: Richard Meiners Jr. (Charlene) of Lenexa, KS and Ron Meiners (Sandy) of Montrose, CO, 12 grandchildren, 2 great grand-daughters and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Joe, November 2006, and her parents, Richard Meiners Sr., March 1970 and Helen (Joergens) Meiners, November 2015.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for those interested to send donations to Chapel Oaks Funeral home on behalf of either Freedom Hospice or Hope Brown County. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com which is also the livestreaming site.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 AM, Monday, May 17, 2021 at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Perry, for Melvin Joseph “Mel” Lang.  Visitation will be 3:00 to 5:00 PM, Sunday, May 16, at St. Theresa Parish Hall in Perry with  Rosary Recitation at 2:30 PM Sunday. Burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Perry.  Memorials suggested to Jefferson County Friends of Hospice or to St. Theresa Catholic Church in care Barnett Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602, Oskaloosa, KS, 66066
  
  Melvin Joseph “Mel” Lang, 86, of Perry, KS, died Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at Pioneer Ridge Nursing Home in Lawrence.  Melvin was born January 20, 1935 at Great Bend, the son of Frank E. And Gertrude (Eckart) Lang. He grew up on a farm in southern Russell County, KS, until seventh grade, when the family moved to a farm  northeast of Hoisington, KS. He completed grade school at St. Joseph Catholic School in Beaver, KS, and was a 1952 graduate of Hoisngton High School.  He served in the U.S. Army and U.S. Army Reserves from May 18, 1957 to May 31, 1963. He was employed at Prosser Produce in Hoisington until entering the Army. After his military service, he was employed as an Assistant Manager at Beaver Grain Corporation from1959 to 1963. He then served as Manager of Farmer’s Co-Op Elevator in Hedville, KS from 1963 to 1967 and then as Manager of Kaw Valley Grain Elevator in Perry, KS from 1967 to 1987. He retired as Manager of the North Lawrence Farmer’s Co-Op Elevator in 1997.   After retirement , Mel worked part time for Jefferson County Water District #2.

  He was a member of St. Theresa Catholic Church in Perry, where he served on the Parish Council and mowed the church grounds for several years. He served on the Perry City Council and was a member of Perry American Legion Post #142.  He was a past member and officer of Kansas Feed and Grain Dealers Association.  Mel enjoyed watching sporting events and was active in the Perry Ball Association and Perry- Lecompton High School Booster Club while raising his four sons. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and antiques.  He was especially devoted to his family and was always willing to lend a helping hand to neighbors and friends.
   He married Yvonne Reif on November 7, 1955 at Beaver, KS, she survives at the home in Perry. He is also survived by four sons, Randy (Sheryl) Lang, Perry, David (Brenda) Lang and step-granddaughter, Audiey  McTaggart, Lawrence, Michael (Carloyn) Lang, Perry, Brian (Donna) Lang and grandson, Andrew Lang, Lawrence, three step-grandchildren, five nephews and two nieces.  He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Kenneth Lang, Francis J. Lang,  Lyle Lang, a sister,  Lorene Reif and two step-grandsons.  www.barnettfamilyfh.com

Bernadine L. “Bernie” Fox, 93, St. Joseph, Missouri formerly of Atchison, Kansas died Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at Carriage Square in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Funeral services will be Saturday, May 15, 2021, at 11:00 A.M. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A parish rosary will be Saturday at 10:30 A.M. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Mt. Calvary Cemtery.

Bernadine was born July 12, 1927 in Nebraska City, Nebraska the daughter of Adolph and Anna Brandt Gottwald.  She attended St. Joseph’s Grade School in Paul, Nebraska.

She and Harold J. Fox were united in marriage on June 3, 1947 at St. Joseph’s Church in Paul, Nebraska.  Mr. Fox preceded her in death on September 13, 1991.

While living in Nebraska, Bernie was an active parishioner with St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at Paul, Nebraska.  She was the organist for the choir and a member of the Altar Society.  She also worked in the post office for Paul, Nebraska in 1950, which was run by her mother-in-law Helen Fox.

After moving to Atchison, Kansas in 1965, Bernie worked and retired from Pamida Discount Center.  She loved the interaction with the people shopping at the store.  After her retirement, she volunteered at the Atchison Visitors Center and enjoyed all the people she met and talked to over the years. She was a member of St. Benedict Parish. She also organized and was active in the Red Hat Club.  She enjoyed baking and being with her family.

Survivors include two daughters, Linda A. Webb, Atchison, KS; Karen R. Belcher, St. Joseph, MO; a son, Terrence L. “Terry” Fox, St. Charles, MO; a sister, Rosemary Burger, Nebraska City, NE; five grandchildren; seven great grandchildren and a great-great grandchild.

Bernie was preceded in death by a brother, Alton Gottwald.

Janice (Richling) Sanders, age 62, passed away on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at the Mission Village Living Center in Horton, Kansas.

She was born on January 4, 1959 in Horton, Kansas the daughter of Harold (Hinky) and Joyce Torkelson Richling. She had a wonderful upbringing with all of her siblings through the values her loving parents instilled in her. She graduated from Horton High School in 1977. She was charismatic, loving, compassionate, hardworking and just a joy to be around.

Janice was preceded in death by her father, Harold (Hinky), brother in law Marlon, and her sweet sister, Karen. Janice is survived by her husband, Jerry Sanders, her sons, Michael Joe and Curtis (Kelsey), grandson, Knox, her loving mother, Joyce, siblings, Sharon, Susan, Jeannie (Rick), Ginger (Evans), Amy (Jeff), Shelly (Michael), David (Carol) and Jimmy (Marsha), step grandchildren, Jesse Lock, Sarah Lock and Bryan Sanders. Numerous nieces and nephews and her dear friend, Rhonda Paden.

The family will greet friends on Saturday, May 15, 2021 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton from 10:00 to 11:30 A.M. with a private family graveside service to follow at the St. Leo's Catholic Cemetery. There will be a meal at the St. Leo's Catholic Hall following the burial. Memorials may be made to the Janice Sanders 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

Vera Marie Irvin, 97, of Atchison, Kansas, passed away peacefully Saturday, May 8, 2021, at the Atchison Senior Village.

Vera was born, June 16, 1923 in Highland, KS, the daughter of Charles T. and Mamie M. (Wilson) Butner. Vera attended Highland Schools and she and Clarence R. Irvin were united in marriage on April 4, 1940 in Hiawatha, KS. Clarence preceded Vera in death on July 2, 1954.

Vera and her children moved to Atchison in 1961 coming from Grandview, MO. Vera worked for JC Penney’s, and then Saunders Mop Factory, where she became a floor supervisor, until she retired. After retirement, Vera had worked in the deli at Dan & John’s Grocery Store; at the VFW hall, waiting tables in the evening; and then for a brief time doing office work at the SRS Office in the former TG&Y building. Vera was a devoted wife and mother and cared for the family home. Vera was a member of the VFW Auxiliary and a former member of the Highland Methodist Church. Vera was a ‘Recipe Collector’ and thus was an excellent cook, who also made the best chocolate candy. Vera also enjoyed arranging flowers.

Vera is survived by a son, Charles (Renee) Irvin of Atchison; a daughter, Jeanie Winchester of Council Bluffs, IA; six grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.

Vera was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a daughter, Judy Eubanks; brothers, Lloyd, Melvin, Leonard, John Harmon, Lawrence Jeff and Gale Butner; sisters, Louise Beaman, Dorothy Winters, and Margaret Painter.

Memorial services will be at 11:45 AM, Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Highland (KS) Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 11:00 AM, Wednesday until of service. Memorial contributions in memory of Vera are suggested to the Atchison Senior Village and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Words of sympathy and remembrance may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Annabelle Grady of Falls City passed away May 8, 2021 at Falls City.  She was born October 20, 1932 to Jesse and Bell (Prater) Roberts in Rulo.She married Charles Grady in Hiawatha, Kansas on August 10, 1950, he passed away February 10, 2002.

Annabelle grew up in Rulo, attending grades K-5 in Rulo, then grades 6-7 in Oregon and then back to Happy Hollow where she graduated from Rulo High in June of 1950.

When married the coupe established their home in Omaha, NE where two children were born to this union, Cheryl and Charles.  They lived there until 1958 when they moved to Falls City.  Annabelle worked at Whittens Market and the Falls City Creamery.  Because Frontier Homes went on strike in1964 they took on different employment and moved the family to Papillion, NE where they lived until after the children graduated from high school.

Annabelle loved High School in Rulo and all the friends she made there.  She loved telling stories of the free show nights there, the dances and the lasting bonds she had with her classmates.  She and two of her classmates started the Rulo School Reunion many years ago.

Family came first to her as a wife and a mother.  She loved to play board games with each and every one of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She took great pride in teaching all of them how to play Rummikub and knowing that each family had their very own Rummikub game.

Annabelle is survived by, Daughter: Cheryl (Dennis) Hullman, Falls City,  Brother: Cecil Roberts, Oregon, Missouri, Grandchildren:  Ben (Racy) Hullman, Falls City, Jillian (Shawn) Holle, Otoe, NE, Lee (Laura) Hullman, Houston, TX,, Emily (Andrew) Shelby, Omaha, NE, Brian Grady, Gretna, NE, 5 Great Grandchildren and 2 Step Great Grandchildren

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Charles 2013, brothers, William Roberts and Harvey Roberts and a sister Evely (Jim) Hodge.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at 2:00 P.M.  Steele Cemetery   

Virginia Ilene (Williams) Jones, 98, of Troy, Kansas passed away Friday, May 7, 2021 at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, Missouri. 

Virginia was born to Earl R. and Loretha May (Doll) Taylor Williams on July 5, 1922 one mile west of Troy. As a child, she attended several one room schools in rural Doniphan County, including Eclipse, Oakland and Zimmerman. While attending Oakland, she would walk 2 and a half miles one way down highway 7, some days in treacherous blowing and drifting snow. She also attended Troy High School. Her first job as a teenager was driving a team of horses as her dad sprayed apple trees on the Zimmerman Orchard. It was in the orchard also that her mother taught her to drive, learning on a “stick shift” truck, a skill that she mastered well until her 90’s, and maintained that “all kids should learn to drive with a stick shift before driving an automatic transmission”. 

Virginia married Orville Jones in Brown County, Kansas on June 9, 1942. To this union two children were born, Larry and Pamela. For 72 years they made their home 3 and a half miles west of Troy, where they farmed. Virginia (Gin) had many noteworthy hobbies, but perhaps her most enjoyed and successful was the flock of chickens she raised, at one time tending to over 300 laying hens. She would also boast that she could “milk just as many cows by hand at a time” that Orville could. Virginia also enjoyed traveling, including a trip to both Spain and England. Virginia is a member of the Troy Christian Church, Troy Christian Church Ladies Guild, Order of Eastern Star, and the Moray Friends Extension Club Unit. 

Virginia was preceded in death by her father, mother, husband in August of 1987, son, Larry Jones, November of 2016 and brother, Earl R. Williams Jr. 

She is survived by her daughter, Pamela Kostman (Steven)  

      grandsons; Craig Kostman (Kimberly)  

                          Corey Kostman (Katherine)  

      great-grandchildren; Ellie, Avery, Adelyn, Ainsley and Otto Kostman 

FUNERAL: Tuesday, May 11, 2021 – 10:30 A.M. 

           At: Troy Christian Church in Troy 

         Interment: Moray Cemetery in Bendena, Kansas 

           Visitation: family will receive friends Monday evening 6-8 pm at the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas where friends may call after 9 am Monday. 

        Memorials: Troy Christian Church, Moray Cemetery Fund or the Doniphan County Ambulance Dist #1 

                   www.harmanrohde.com 

Kenneth Lee Harmon, 85, of rural Dawson was born on July 2, 1935, in Falls City, Nebraska to William and Pearl Elizabeth (Jarred) Harmon. He was raised with his family on a farm near Dawson.  Kenneth received all of his schooling from Honey Creek schools and graduated from Honey Creek High School with the class of 1953.  On September 5, 1953, Kenneth was united in marriage to Donna Fairbanks in Hiawatha, Kansas.  To this union four children, Gail, Tony, Jill and Cindy were born.  The couple began their marriage living in Nebraska where Kenneth worked construction and later owned his own mechanic shop.  They moved for a short time to Texas before moving to Pagosa Springs, Colorado where Kenneth worked for the water sanitation district.  He and Donna moved back to Texas where Kenneth worked for the Y.M.C.A. in Midland, Texas.  The couple returned to the farm near Dawson in 1990 where Kenneth has farmed and they have resided since. 

Kenneth passed away on Wednesday, March 10, 2021, at his home in rural Dawson, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of 85 years, 8 months and 8 days.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Bill (Phyllis) Harmon and Robert Harmon, sisters: Clara Hollister, Helen Iliff and Donna Kay Harmon, grandson Kenneth Bratcher and son-in-law Kent Bailey.  Kenneth is survived by his wife Donna of rural Dawson, NE; children: Gail Harmon of Burnet, TX; Tony Harmon of rural Dawson, NE; Jill Bratcher of Wakefield, KS; Cindy Bailey of Burnet, TX; 7 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; a brother Larry Harmon and wife Judy of rural Dawson, NE; a sister Peggy Sue Harmon of Falls City, NE; special friends Janie Roddy of Burnet, TX; Rick Karas of rural Dawson, NE; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Kenneth’s Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 15, 2021, at the Southeast Nebraska Cancer Garden in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Dorothy Smith officiating.

Inurnment will be at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in rural Dawson, Nebraska.

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

Lois P. Betts went to be with her Lord and Savior onMay 6th 2021.  Lois passed peacefully inher home surrounded by loved ones after a short battle with cancer.

Lois was born March 17, 1939 to George E. and WildaJ. (Carson) Behler.  Lois was the fourthof nine children.  Lois married BennyOxley in January of 1959.  She had threechildren from that union, Jeff, Debbie and Shirley Oxley.  She married James Betts, Sr., in January of1966.  She had three children from thatunion, Jimmy, Ricki and Amy Betts.

Lois was preceded in death by both parents and two brothersKent and Paul Behler, two grandsons, Trevor and Eric Betts and daughter-in-lawPamela Oxley.  Survivors include Jeff(Sherri) Oxley, Rantoole, KS, Debbie and Blaine Sherer, Everest, KS, Shirley andRonnie Irvin, Rosehill, KS, Jimmy Betts, Huron, KS, Ricki Harvey, Willis, KS,Amy and Dave Jones, Stilwelll, KS, twenty-two grandchildren, thirteen greatgrandchildren and three great-great grandchildren, siblings, Grimes Behler,Atchison, KS, five sisters, Leila McConnaughey, Edythe Myers, Everest, KS,Linda, McRay, St. Joseph, MO, Sharon Gladman, and Pam Westbrook, Independence,MO.

Lois retired as a Youth Service Worker from YouthCenter of Atchison after twenty-three years of service.  She raised her children in Denton, Kansasthen made her home in Atchison, Horton and finally Willis, KS.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday,May 11, 2021 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS with Rev.Tom Stone officiating.  Burial will followat the Old Huron Cemetery, Huron, KS. Family will receive friends from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Monday, May 10,2021 at the funeral home.  Memorials aresuggested to Horton First Baptist Church and may be sent in care of the funeralhome.  Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Steven Vincent Martineau, 64 years of age, of Falls City, Nebraska was born into his eternal life on Monday, May 3, 2021.  On September 19, 1956, he was the first-born child to Larry and Ethel (Fouraker) Martineau in Falls City.  Steven was raised in Falls City where he received his schooling and graduated from Sacred Heart High School with the class of 1974. After graduating, he took on the study of auto mechanic which greatly benefited himself and his family.  Steven drove trucks for many years while working for Bohr Bros. and Niehaus in Sabetha, Kansas and later drove trucks for Western Dairymen’s Coop out of Thornton, Colorado.  He was united in marriage to Mary Engel in Golden, Colorado on November 17, 1984.  To this union two sons, Jason and Casey, were born.  In 1998, the couple moved their family to Falls City, Nebraska to leave the big cities behind and for their sons to attend Sacred Heart Schools.  For a while, Steven worked at Casino White Cloud and Sac ‘N’ Fox Casino

Steven is survived by his wife Mary of Falls City, sons: Jason Martineau and his lady friend Sara Connely and her son Zak of Kansas City, KS; Casey Martineau of Kansas City, MO; grandsons: Don and Anthony Martineau of Kansas City, KS; uncles: Jerry Martineau and wife Mary of Sioux Falls, SD; Jim Martineau and wife Debbie of Carthage, MO; a nephew Zak Peterson and many other relatives and friends.  He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Vic Martineau and his sister Linda Peterson

Graveside Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 15, 2021, at the Maple Cemetery in Salem, Nebraska with Father Lawrence Stoley officiating. 

Condolences can be shared online at www.hallfuneral.net

Memorial contributions are suggested to Sacred Heart School.

Services entrusted to Hall Funeral Chapel-2403 Harlan ST-Falls City, Nebraska 68355 (402) 245-3131

Andrew Scott Vaughan, 36, of Falls City, Nebraska, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, near Hiawatha, Kansas.  He was born in Pawnee City, Nebraska on June 11, 1984 and was raised in Falls City where he received all of his schooling.  Andrew graduated from Falls City High School with the class of 2002.  He was currently employed at Crosswinds Industries, Inc. in Sabetha, Kansas where he had worked for over a year.  Andrew liked watching wrestling and scary movies, listening to Ozzy Osborne music and following the Boston Red Sox.  He most of all enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his uncles.

Andrew is survived by his loving mother Lori Vaughan of Falls City, NE; a brother J.T. Tisdel and special friend Samantha of Falls City, NE; uncles: Chuck Vaughan and wife Karen of Dawson, NE; Rick Vaughan and wife Daggi of Humboldt, NE; Steve Vaughan and wife Nancy of Sioux Falls, SD; Jeff Vaughan of Humboldt, NE; Justin Vaughan and wife Ronda of Bennet, NE; an aunt Dena Vaughan and special friend Mike Taiclet of Humboldt, NE; a niece Cassidy Tisdel of Falls City, NE; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Howard Blecha officiating.  Interment will follow services at the Humboldt Cemetery in Humboldt, Nebraska.  

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Monday, May 10, 2021, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt.  Family will greet friends from 5-7 p.m. at the mortuary.

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

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

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

Beverly Lee Miller, of Highland, went to be with her Lord and Savior Sunday evening, May 2, 2021, at her home surrounded by her loving family.  Beverly was born July 30, 1928, near Faucett, Mo, one of three children born to Lawrence Lee and Augusta Elder Utz.  She was a lifelong resident of Highland, Ks.  She attended Arnold Country School in Doniphan County, later graduating from Highland High School in 1946, then going on to Highland Junior College for a year. She was a substitute teacher in Winona, and White Cloud. 

Beverly was a long-time member of the Highland Christian Church where she was a loyal follower. She loved her church family, and was active up until the pandemic.  She remained faithful in her ministry of card writing right up to the week before she died.  Throughout her service to the Lord, she taught Sunday school, was active in Christian Women’s Fellowship, and assisted wherever needed.  

Beverly had three very close friends throughout her life (over 80 years).  Ruth McCauley, Betty Lou French, and Leola Winters.  Beverly was the last one to leave this earth, she always made the comment, that they were having fun without her.  (They are all together again)  

She met her husband Thomas Wayne Miller while they were attending high school.  They married in Highland on June 1, 1947.  Tom and Beverly farmed for 15 years in the Highland area before they started a John Deere dealership in Highland which they operated for 25 years.  Beverly continued in her role under Deutz Allis for 2 years, then did secretarial work for Doug Miller Crop Insurance for 3 years.  Tom and Beverly made their home in Highland where they raised their family, and were very active in the community.  Beverly and Tom were both EMTs, enjoying the opportunity to help others together.  Tom’s love and concern for the community was encouraged and supported by Beverly, as she too loved the community.  

Beverly was preceded in death by her Tom, March 11, 2016; Son-In-Law Larry Beaman, and brother Donald E. Utz.    Survivors include her sister Donna Keebler (Keith) of rural Highland, their children:  Doug (Linda) of Hiawatha; Greg (Joyce) of St. Joseph; Ellen Beaman of Highland; Jane (George) Bruning of Everest; fifteen grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, and a host of good friends.   Daughters claimed; Linda Parker Souder of Grover, Mo; Beverly (Jay) Brock of Hiawatha; Sue (Martin) Idol of Highland.

A Celebration of Beverly’s eternal life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May11, at the Highland Christian Church, with Pastors Dave Welch and Jerry Petering will officiate.  Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Highland, after 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday.    The family will meet with friends at the Highland Christian Church from 6 until 8 p.m. that evening.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Highland Christian Church, sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33 66035. 

A special message or remembrance may be sent to  www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com which is also the 

Livestreaming site.

Douglas R. Sefried, 61, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 19, 2021 in Buffalo, NY. Doug was born October 28, 1959 to James R. and Diane (Shipley) Sefried and was raised in Falls City, NE.

He graduated from Falls City High School with the Class of 1978 and was active in all sports but really love the science and movement of basketball. After high school, he followed in his grandfather’s footsteps and started his student training with the Union Pacific Railroad working out of Falls City and later moving to Kansas City, MO as a conductor. After over 20 years of service and wanting more time with his family, he moved to Buffalo where he and his wife Barbara were the co-owners of Niagra Sports Awards.

Doug is survived by his wife, Barbara L. (Shiesley) Sefried, three daughters, Rachel and Sarah, who are both students at St. Bonaventure University, and Katie, who is a sophomore in high school, parents, Jim and Diane Sefried of Falls City, Uncle Allen Shipley and family of Scottsdale, AR, niece, Cynthia and sister-in-law, Kris Sefried of Sanford, FL, aunt, Beverly Kimmel of Falls City. Doug was preceded in death by his grandparents and his beloved brother, Brad.

A memorial service was held at the D. Lawrence Ginnane Funeral Home in Buffalo. A private graveside service will be held at Steele Cemetery at a later date with Father Lawrence Stoley and Reverend Young Je Kim officiating.

A book is available to sign at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home during regular business hours.

Marcene Elaine Huettner of Falls City, NE, passed away December 31, 2020 at the Falls City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center at the age of 95.  She was born July 10, 1925 in Falls City Nebraska to Tracy LaForge and Minnie Margaret (Metzger) LaForge.   

Marcene is survived by her children, Richard and his wife Jill of LaQuinta, CA, Suanne Chesnut and her husband Lyle of Hiawatha, KS, grandchildren, Darci Wojcicki, Kirk (Jessica) Huettner, Carrie (David) Streeter, Carla (Matt) Wenger and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Huettner, brother, Tracy “Bud” LaForge and a special friend, Richard Hillyard.

Graveside service will be Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. at Steele Cemetery with Reverend Fay Ann Blaylock officiating. Close family and friends are invited to celebrate her life.

Friends may sign her book at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home during regular business hours.

Glynda May Noe, 84, of Sabetha, KS, formerly of Netawaka, KS, passed away Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at Sabetha Manor. She was born November 2, 1936 in Wetmore, KS, the daughter of Glyn T. and Elsie May (Linn) McCall.

Glynda graduated from Wetmore High School and attended a business college. Glynda had lived in Netawaka for 15 years and also Holton for 1 year, Wetmore for 31 years, Phoenix, AZ for 15 years and Topeka for 8 years. She was a stenographer, apartment manager, worked at nursing homes and a waitress.

She attended Methodist and Unity Church. Glynda enjoyed visiting with family and friends and reading a good book.

Glynda married James Victor Chilson on February 26, 1955 in Wetmore, they divorced. She married Freeman Lee Noe on August 9, 1974 in Holton; he preceded her in death on December 2, 2000. She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Vicky Ann Chilson and a brother, Keith Dee McCall.

Survivors include her children, Robert “Bob” Glynn Chilson (Diana) of Topeka, KS, Lynda Kay Good of Topeka, KS, Celeste “Renee” Meininger (Bruce) of Westmoreland, KS and Lorraine Chilson of California; brother, Max Lee McCall of St. Claire, MO; 7 grandchildren, Kayce Chilson, Jared Chilson, Megan Hennesay, Melissa Moffitt, Abby Stous, Taelor Poncin and Jaeme Poncin and 7 great-grandchildren.

Memorial Service will be at a later date. Memorials may be given to the Sabetha Manor 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.

Gary Cummings, 74, of Falls City, NE, passed away May 3, 2021 at Falls City. He was born November 14, 1946 at Falls City to Fred and Marguerite (Estes) Cummings.

Gary was raised at Verdon and started working after his schooling in various places in and around Richardson County. He last worked for WASP before retiring.

Gary is survived by his brothers, Larry of Lincoln, NE, Donald Fouraker of Spanaway, WA and a sister, Julia Eaton and her husband Edward of Verdon, NE. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at 2:00 PM at Verdon Cemetery. Mr. Cummings has been cremated and no viewing or visitation will be held.

Alfred James Henry, 84, of Nortonville, Kansas, died peacefully at home on Monday, May 3, 2021.

Alfred was born August 14, 1936, in Atchison, Kansas, the son of James H. and Edna L. (Ellerman) Henry.  On January 31, 1959, Alfred married Mary Kay Noll at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Nortonville, Kansas. 

Alfred’s family includes his wife of 62 years, Mary Kay; his children, Arlene (Don) Wheeler, Bartlesville, Oklahoma; Alicia (John) Robertson, Phoenix, Arizona; Jon (Judy) Henry, Oskaloosa, Kansas; Mark (Dane) Henry, Los Angeles, California; Paula (Lance) Larson, Nortonville, Kansas; Joe (Cheryl) Henry, Asbury, Missouri; and one daughter in-law, Jane Henry, Winchester, Kansas, two sisters, Dorothy Flory, Nortonville, Kansas and Naomi Hook, Lees Summit, Missouri, 24 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his oldest son, Wayne Henry, his granddaughter, Emily Jean Henry, parents Edna and James Henry, a sister Vivian Hoerner, and brother Donald Henry.

Alfred served in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1957, serving on the U.S.S. Hornet as a Naval Corpsman. Alfred and Mary began their married life in Atchison and moved to a farm north of Nortonville in 1962.  Alfred was a dairy farmer until 1985.  He took up bicycling and retired from farming to bicycle across America in 1990.  He and Mary bicycled and traveled many states, including Yuma, Arizona where they wintered for several years.  

 Funeral service will be Saturday, May 8th at 10:30 am at St. Joseph Catholic School in Nortonville, Kansas.  Burial will be at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, at Ellsworth and 238th Road, Nortonville, Kansas.    

Memorials are suggested to Nortonville Pleasant Grove Christian Church or The Atchison Family YMCA in care of Barnett Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602. Oskaloosa, KS 66066.   barnettfamilyfh.com

Bonnie J. Reetz, 83, of Hiawatha, was born on a farm outside of White Cloud, KS, on February 23, 1938, to Woodrow & Hazel (Lear) Bryan. She passed away on May 2, 2021 at Amberwell Hospital in Hiawatha, KS, surrounded by family.

Bonnie graduated from Robinson High School with the Class of 1956. She then attended Kansas State University and received her Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics. Bonnie was a wonderful seamstress and enjoyed being creative with her sewing. Her time at Kansas State turned her into an avid K-State fan, and she was rarely seen without purple.

Owning and operating the Inn Shoppe clothing store in downtown Hiawatha was an integral part of Bonnie’s life. She later was the Director of the Hiawatha Chamber of Commerce and worked at the Brown County Historical Society’s Ag Museum. Bonnie had a love for history and sharing her expertise with others.

Bonnie cared for those around her. Being an animal lover, she had many pets throughout her lifetime- dogs, cats, horses… you name it!  She took pride in caring for every one of them. Aside from caring for her animals, one of Bonnie’s greatest joys was hearing about her great nieces and nephews and their accomplishments.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Lu Hallauer, brother in-law Warren Pray, and companion Ray Hatt.

Survivors include a brother, Jerry (Wanda) Bryan of Hiawatha; sister Bea Pray of Estero, Florida; brother in-law Virgil Hallauer; niece Michelle (John) Wright; nephews Rick (Deb) Bryan, Terry Hallauer, and Von Hallauer; and 6 great nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, in Hiawatha  beginning Monday, May 10 after 10 a.m.   to sign the register book, view pictures, and remember Bonnie.  Family graveside services will be held at later date at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

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

Those wishing to leave a note or remembrance for the family can be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Mark Alan Babbs, loving son and brother, passed away May 1, 2021, at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka.  He was 56.

Mark was born November 11, 1964, in Hiawatha Hospital, the son of Glenn and Janet Rutland Babbs.  He grew up in Hiawatha, attending schools here, graduating with the class of 1984.  After graduation, he worked at Flair Fold in Hiawatha for many years prior to deciding to attend DeVry Institute to study computers.  He then moved to Florida to work in a factory called “Flowers”. After working there many years, he retired due to health issues which brought him back to be closer to family.

He enjoyed his music and going to concerts when he was younger.  Mark enjoyed spending time with his family, was devoted to his mother and always willing to help her out.  Mark enjoyed watching movies, then recording them for his Mom, then talking about them with her.

Mark is survived by his mother Janet Babbs-Burnheide, a sister Ronda Ferris (Terry, nephews:  Jesse Ferris, Lane Ferris, Levi Ferris, and a good friend Salina Padilla.

He was preceded in death by his father Glenn Babbs, grandparents:  Neil and Gold Rutland, John and Cleo Babbs.

Cremation is planned with no services planned at this time.  Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha to sign the register book beginning Monday.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the National Kidney Foundation which may be sent to the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434.

Patty Ann (Eaton) Lehwald, 82, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 3, 2021 surrounded by family at the Sabetha Manor in Sabetha, Kansas. 

Patty was born in Carroll, Iowa to Halver "Hal" Eaton and Della (Davis) Eaton on January 18, 1939. She was united in marriage to Merlin Edward Lehwald, Sr. on April 30, 1960 in Audubon, Iowa. Merlin and Patty lived in Audubon and Nebraska before ultimately settling in Sabetha in 1977. Patty worked various jobs in the area over the years, with the most important ones being "mom" and "grandma.” She loved her family very much and will be dearly missed.

In addition to her parents, and her husband, Patty was preceded in death by her brother, Donald Eaton, a daughter, Diane Herbst, of California, and infant grandson, Shannon Lehwald.

Patty is survived by her children; Cindy Meyer (Alan) of Sabetha, Debra Lehwald of Sabetha, Tamara Lehwald of Sabetha, Merlin "Butch" Lehwald, Jr. (Sue) of Lenexa, Kansas, and Douglas Lehwald (Heather) of Sabetha, her brother, Halver "Bill" Eaton, sister-in-law, Melba Musfeldt, sister-in-law, Ardella Petersen, and family friend/"daughter” Julie Burenheide. At the time of her passing, Patty had 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren in California, Kansas, Nebraska, Texas, and Arizona.

Memorial services will be on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha. A family visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 9:30 a.m. until time of service at Popkess Mortuary. The inurnment will be in the Albany Cemetery north of Sabetha. Family and friends will meet at the First Lutheran Church in Sabetha for lunch after the services. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Lutheran Christian Preschool of Sabetha, Sabetha Caring Neighbors Cancer Fund, or the Sabetha VFW Post 7285 sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com

A special thanks to the staff at the Sabetha Manor and the Sabetha Community Hospital for the care provided to Patty.

Amy Elizabeth Klepper-Madel, 39 formerly of Pawnee City, Nebraska passed away on Monday, May 3, 2021 at the Premier Estates in Pawnee City.  She was born on February 8, 1982 to Herb and Mary Sue (Edwards) Klepper in Pawnee City, Nebraska.

She is survived by her husband, Steven Madel, father, Herb Klepper, mother and stepfather, Susie and Jerry Malik, siblings, Glenda (David) Embree, Debi (Blaine) Hubbard, Steve (Amy) Klepper, David (Brenda) Klepper, Herb (Laurie) Klepper, T.J. (Jenna) Malik, Jennifer (Luke) Foster, Patricia Malik, nieces, nephews that she loved as if they were her own children, aunts, uncles, cousins, special friend, Sarah, other relatives and her beloved cats, Jasmine and Callie.

Services 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 7, 2021 at Faith Baptist Church, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Officiating Chaplain Sharon Schuster.  Visitation on Thursday, May 6, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Interment at the Pawnee City Cemetery, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Memorials to family choice.  On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com

A celebration of life service for Karen Hewitt, of Sabetha, will be held Saturday, May 8  at the Crossroads Wesleyan Church in Sabetha. There will be a short service starting at 11 am.  Then shortly after her service, the family will have a come-and-go period to visit with Karen’s family and enjoy a light lunch.  

Karen died Nov. 27, 2020.

She was the daughter of Tresa Bethine (Newsham) Allen and Lynn Eugene Allen. She grew up in Oneida and graduated high school in 1959.

She married the love of her life, Kendall M. Hewitt on July 12, 1963.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and brothers, Jerry, Vaden, Max and Roger Allen.

She is survived by her children, Randy (Debbie) Hewitt of Topeka, Mark Hewitt of Sabetha and Michelle (Brad) Stolzenberger of Morrill; brother, Robert Allen of Sabetha; sister, Shirley Allen of Topeka; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters-in law, Waunita Allen of Seneca, Barbara Allen of Sabetha, Ethel Allen of Seneca and Jean Allen of Fairview.

Larry Studer, 75, of Wathena, Kansas passed away Friday, April 30, 2021. 

Larry was born on June 14, 1945 in Wathena, Kansas to Pete and Catherine (Fahey) Studer Jr. 

Larry was a member of the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Wathena, Kansas. He worked and retired from Heartland Hospital. Larry always had a smile on his face, whether it being seeing family and friends or his love for animals. He enjoyed working in his garden and mowing the lawn and just being outdoors enjoying nature.  

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Gerald Studer. 

Survivors: brothers, John Studer, Wathena, Kansas, Tony Studer (Shelley), Wathena, Kansas and  Bob Studer (Wendy) St. Joseph, Missouri 

Sisters, Marilyn Perry, St. Joseph, Missouri, Cathy Coy (Vernie), Wathena, Kansas and Janice Studer, Wathena, Kansas. Numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. 

Funeral Service: 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, May 4, 2021 

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

Visitation: 5-7 Monday evening at the funeral home. Friends may call after 12 noon Monday. 

Burial: Mount Calvary Cemetery, Wathena, Kansas. 

Memorials: Wathena EMS or the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Renovation Fund. 

www.harmanrohde.com 

Betty Eileen Fitzpatrick, 75, of Winchester, KS died on Friday, April 30, 2021 at the Providence Hospital, Kansas City, KS.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, May 6th, 2021 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, KS on Friday, May 7th at 10:00 AM. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, May 5th at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Guide Dogs for the Blind and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Betty was born on January 1, 1946 in Springfield, IL, the daughter of Wesley L. and Ruth Ann (Tremaine) Duncan. She worked as a registration secretary for the St. John’s Hospital in Leavenworth, KS from 1998-2012. Betty enjoyed making ceramics, collecting Tiffany Lamps, rings, Alegra Shoes and especially her animals and pets which include seven cats, five dogs, and a pony.

She was married to Walter F. Fitzpatrick on March 30, 1967 in Dakota City, NE by a Justice of the Peace. Mr. Fitzpatrick survives of the home. Additional survivors include two nephews and one niece. Her parents, and two brother Wesley Allen and Ronald Eugene Duncan preceded her in death.

 Phyllis N. Campbell, 88, of Holton, KS, passed away Saturday, May 1, 2021 at The Pines of Holton. She was born November 7, 1932 in Horton, KS, the daughter of Marvin and Edna (Keiswetter) Hall.

Phyllis graduated from Powhattan High School in 1950. She worked for many years at Wilde Tool Factory in Hiawatha as a tool maker and selling Avon.

Phyllis married Keith Whitson Campbell on November 21, 1950 in Horton. He preceded her in death in 2006 after 56 years of marriage.

Survivors include 3 daughters, Cathy Haug (Steve) of Holton, KS, Marcella Godfrey (Dean) of Emporia, KS and Virginia Postma (Bill) of Muscotah, KS; son, Steve Campbell (Linda) of Circleville, KS; 16 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.

 She was also preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Edna Hall; 2 sisters, Marlene Bowser and Dolores Britt and a grandchild, Alex.

 Funeral Service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 5, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Horton Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Memorials may be given to The Pines of Holton 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.

Gerald Edwin “Jerry” Taliaferro, 80, of Holton, KS, passed away Friday, April 30, 2021 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka. He was born March 26, 1941 in Horton, KS, the son of Jack and Theresa (Meador) Taliaferro. 

Jerry graduated from ACCHS High School in 1959. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1965 – 1967; he was stationed in Korea in charge of transporting ammunition for Military Tanks. 

 Jerry and his wife owned and operated Holton Livestock Express in Holton from 1976 -2013. He also owned and operated Taliaferro Farms with his brother Rick. 

 He attended Evangel United Methodist Church, Atchison American Legion Post 1617 and NRA.

 Jerry married Erma “Gail” Mick on May 29, 1968 in Oklahoma. They celebrated over 52 years of marriage. 

Survivors include his wife, Gail of the home; daughter, Barbara Sides (Troy) of Holton, KS; son, Gerald “Jerry” Taliaferro, Jr. (Dana) of Topeka, KS; 3 sisters, Mary Ann Bergmann (Mark) of Clive, IA, Eileen Buttron of Lancaster, KS and Marsha Collins (Don) of Valley Center, KS; brother, Rick Taliaferro (Gerri) of Effingham, KS and 3 grandsons, Rusty Taliaferro and Preston and Parker Sides. 

Funeral Service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial with Military Honors will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Jerry will lie in state beginning Monday afternoon, May 3, 2021 and family will greet friends Tuesday one hour prior to service time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Gerald Taliaferro Memorial Fund (to be designated towards a youth scholarship for diesel mechanic or semi-truck driving) 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.

Robert Wayne “Bob”. Kleopfer, 88, of rural Morrill, peacefully passed away April 30, 2021, at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha where he resided for the last 7 years.

Robert was born January 10, 1933 at home, near Morrill, the son of Karl and Ella (Fortmeyer) Kleopfer.  He attended grade school at Old Fairview and walked two and a fourth miles most days, or rode his bicycle.  He then attended Fairview High School and graduated in 1951.  After graduation he farmed with his father, Karl, and helped his uncles Paul, Will and John Kleopfer during hay and harvest seasons.

In 1957, Bob married Annalee Rannebeck at Falls City, NE.  They moved to the farm, one and one half miles east of Bob’s parents where they still reside today.  They were married September 22, 1957.  God blessed this union with 63 years of marriage and three children. 

Bob was a lifetime and active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Fairview where he served on various church offices all through the years.  He was a member of the Lutheran Layman’s League serving as president many years.  He served as LLL zone president, and the Aid Association for Lutheran’s board.  He served on the Walnut Township Board; the Walnut Creek Watershed Board serving as clerk for many years; and was county 4-H tractor leader for 10 years.

Survivors include his wife Annalee of the home, children: Dennis Kleopfer (Kim) of Fairview, Melinda Vanness (Chris) of Latimer, IA, Douglas Kleopfer (Sarah) of Morrill, seven grandchildren:  Matthew Kleopfer (Jenessa) of Fredonia, KS, Andrew Kleopfer (Jessica) of Morrill, Kaylee Borcherding (Mike) of Latimer, Kyle Vanness of Raeford, NC, Kendra Vanness of San Jose, CA, Hannah Gavin (Tom) of St. Joseph, MO, Emma Boyer (Nate) of Pullman, WA, great-grandchildren:  Kamden, Kennedy, Karson, Kortlan Kleopfer, Bella Peterson, Collin, Paige, Charley Borcherding, nephews and a niece.

Preceding him in death are his parents, brother Leland, and sister Mary Ella “Peggy” Hofmeister.

A Celebration of Bob’s Eternal Life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Fairview, with Rev. Michael Dunaway officiating.  Interment will follow at Isely Cemetery, north of Fairview.

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Paul Lutheran Church or to the Lutheran Hour Ministries, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

A note of remembrance may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com which is also the livestreaming site.

Lawrence Dean McKinsey, 87, of Falls City, NE, passed away April 30, 2021 at Falls City. He was born April 16, 1934 to George W. and Hazel (Goolsby) McKinsey.

He married Janet Miner on August 14, 1982 at Verdon, NE. She passed away December 20, 2014.

Dean enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany for 2 years.

Dean was raised at rural Verdon and graduated Verdon High School in 1951. When he returned home, he started farming his own land and raised livestock. He also worked at Rolland Owens machine shop. He worked part time at the Morrill Elevator following his retirement from farming,

Dean is survived by his brother, Charles McKinsey of Lincoln, NE, sister, Betty Spitzer of Pawnee City, NE, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, four brothers and one sister.

Graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at 10:30 A.M. at Steele Cemetery.

No viewing or book will be available at the funeral home.

After forty feisty years, on April 23, 2021, Amanda Thacker was taken home to be with her mom and dad in heaven.  Amanda fought a courageous battle against cancer for one short year.  It was with the best attitude, strongest will, and the loving support of her closest friends and family that she found herself facing the decision to be happy and enjoy the precious time she had left.  (Which she did with grace, cold hard honesty, and a positive attitude).

Amanda Sue Thacker was born on December 15, 1980, to James (Jim) & Glenda Thacker.  She was one of the last babies to be born at the Horton Community Hospital.  Amanda graduated from Horton High School in 1998.  Amanda was a dedicated hard worker at whatever she did in life.  She spent the last 14 years “rocking” every position, most recently Supervisor at Carlos O’ Kelly’s in Topeka. 

Amanda had a very contagious and unique laugh that everyone would be sure to hear and love.  Anyone who knew Amanda would know she was a HUGE LeBron James fan.  Amanda and her mom enjoyed going to as many games as they could.  Amanda had a way of getting her mom to do things no one else could, for example, parasailing!   She also enjoyed spoiling her niece, Tesia, with whom she shared an incredibly special bond with.  They would spend many days and nights laughing, being ornery, and just having fun.  Amanda was the best Aunt Nana Creedence could ever ask for.  Even in her times of illness, she would muster up the energy and strength to play with him.  She quickly taught him “ring around the rosy,” let him lead her around the house by her hoodie strings, and she would give him as many snuggles as he would hold still for. 

Amanda and her sister, Natasha, had quite the list of shenanigans in their lifetime also.  During her childhood she would tag along with Natasha and her best friend, Tina; where she quickly gained the nickname “Speed Bump.”  Natasha was kind enough to share her wise advice and bad influences with Amanda.  The two of them spent the last year together every day, where the sister bond continued to grow even through the toughest of times.  Amanda was a “PRO” with tiny home knowledge, and two years ago she finally achieved her dream of owning her own.  Amanda enjoyed collecting Gingerbread Man memorabilia, Popeye memorabilia, and ALL THINGS LeBron.  Amanda had a fiery spirit, a heart of gold, stubbornness from a long line of genetics, a strong mind, and a faith that whatever was to come would be ok.  Amanda received a special blessing from her chaplain while at home, which brought her a sense of peace and comfort. 

Amanda leaves behind her sister, Natasha Gladden & “Brother” Justin Gladden; niece, Tesia Thacker; great-nephew, Creedence Cole; nephew, Logan Gladden; close friend. Sherri Stallbaumer; & several aunts, uncles, & cousins.  Amanda was greeted in heaven by her parents, Jim & Glenda Thacker; infant brother, James Matthew; maternal grandparents, Glenn & Helen Weidman; paternal grandparents, Raymond & Gladie Lois “Maggie” Thacker; uncle Marion Thacker; dear friend, Jerome Travis; and her beloved dachshunds, Willabie William & Lillian Ann Louise.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at NEK Home Health & Hospice.  A special thank you to Abby, Charlie, Holly, Jerry, Sarah, Edna, and Fonda; you will always hold a special place in our hearts.  To the staff “behind the scenes,” we appreciate your hard work and dedication to improving the lives of not only the patient, but also the family.

Amanda’s wish was to be honored with a memorial service followed by a celebration of life which will be held at Country Crossing Wedding & Events Center located at 1225 120th Street, Horton, Ks on Saturday, May 15th, at 3 p.m.  There will be food and live music to follow directly after the memorial service.  Memorial contributions will be determined at a later date and may be sent in care of the funeral home Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com