“Whopshan” John Ferris Thomas, Jr., 56, was born on January 20, 1965, in Holton, Kansas, to John Ferris Thomas Sr., and Bernadette Masqua Thomas.  Whopshan passed away on September 29, 2021, at 4:20 a.m. surrounded by his loved ones and friends.

Whopshan is a military veteran who served in the Navy.  He attended high school at Intermountain Intertribal School (Brigham City, Utah), Pawnee High School (Pawnee, Oklahoma), and Kickapoo Nation School (Powhattan, Kansas) where he graduated in 1985. Whopshan attended Northeast Kansas Technical College and Haskell Indian Junior College.

Whopshan who was known for his humble nature, a benevolent heart, and his sense of humor was proud to call the Kickapoo Reservation, Kansas his home.  The reservation is where he enjoyed spending time with his family, friends, and many relatives.  He loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was an outdoorsman who always enjoyed a campfire as well as fishing, camping, hunting, hiking, and cruising the backroads.  He loved attending gun shows, concerts, demolition derbies, monster truck shows, car shows, and listening to country music and classic rock namely George Jones and Hank Williams Jr.  Whopshan was also a sports enthusiast when it came to the Kansas City Chiefs football team and the KU Jayhawks basketball team.  One of his lastly famous words was “Chiefs forever”.

Whopshan is survived by his three daughters Leotta Castro, Johna Raye (Chris) Delong and Amber Marie (Gonk) Wakolee. He is survived by his sons Alvin Whitebird and Devin Whitebird whom he helped raise.  He has seventeen precious grandchildren and one grandchild on the way.  In addition to his children and grandchildren, Whopshan is survived by his parents John Thomas Sr., Ruth Thomas, and Bernadette Thomas. He is survived by his five sisters, Kelley Manylightnings, Christina Jim, Lorinda Thomas, Michelle Thomas, and Johanna Shopteese. Three brothers Jason Thomas, Jeffrey Thomas, and Jonathon Thomas survive him.  His survivors include many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Hollis Thomas, Minnie Soldier, Leroy Masqua, Orlando Green, Julia Jessepe Green, his son Justice Sky Thomas, and Jacqueline Castro, loving mother of his children.

Services will be at the Kickapoo Community Building at 5:00 P.M. on Saturday, October 2, 2021. Burial service will be at 9:00 A.M. on Sunday at the Kickapoo Community Building with burial to follow at 10:00 A.M. at the Kennekuk Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Waymer G. Esslinger, 86, a lifelong resident of Bern, Kansas, recently of Sabetha, Kansas, passed away September 29, 2021 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, Kansas.

He was born December 1, 1934, the youngest son of Peter “Pete” and Louise (Leuthold) Esslinger on the family farm south of Bern.  

Waymer completed the 8th grade at the Union Rural School in 1948.  He went to work on his father’s farm until he was drafted into the U.S. Army.  He served from 1957-1959 and also, completed his General Education Degree.

He was united in marriage to Pauline Specht on March 5, 1961 at Sabetha.  They lived and farmed the family farm their entire married life.  They welcomed three children to this union.  

Waymer was a member of the Bern Apostolic Christian Church.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Pauline; a granddaughter, Ariel Esslinger; a daughter in law, Karen Esslinger; a sister, Adele Bruellman; and two brothers, Vernon Esslinger and Martin Esslinger.  

He is survived by his children; Mark (Melinda) Esslinger of McLouth, Kansas, Mike Esslinger of St. Benedict, Kansas, and Dawn (Stan) Feldkamp of Seneca, Kansas; 12 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren; two sisters Irma Gerber of Lester, Iowa and Esther Scott of Scottsdale, Arizona.   

Funeral services will be Monday, October 4, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bern Apostolic Christian Church - Sabetha, Kansas.  Prior to the funeral service at the church, visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  Interment will be in the church cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the Bern Apostolic Christian Church and the Kidney Foundation sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, Kansas 66534.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at popkessmortuaries.com

Richard A. Ellner, 73, of Manhattan, KS, passed away on Sept. 27, 2021, with his loving family at his side.  

Richard was born Nov. 25, 1947, in Jamaica, NY, to Abraham and Mildred (Slobidinski) Ellner. He grew up in Hollis and Massapequa, NY. He spent his childhood playing baseball, lacrosse, and hockey on the local ponds. 

Richard married Kathy Sweet on March 28, 1971. The couple melded their Jewish and Catholic customs and shared the joys of each with their family and friends. Together with family, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year. 

After attending Windham College, Richard spent his life in the family lumber business, working his way from buyer to manager, and later becoming president of an international door and millwork company. Although he spent most of his career traveling internationally, Richard and Kathy moved to Hiawatha, KS, in 1977 where they raised their two sons and he served as general manager of Flair Fold Inc. 

Richard never met a stranger. If he wasn’t chatting about his beloved Jayhawks, Chiefs, Yankees, or Rangers, he was entertaining friends and family on his boat. You could always find him with one or two of his many dogs and cats.  He was also an avid golfer and tennis player. However, his greatest pride and joy was watching and cheering on his sons and grandchildren. 

Richard is survived by his wife, Kathy, of the home; two sons: Andrew and wife, Jonann, of Olathe, KS, and Mark and wife, Jill, of Manhattan, KS; five grandchildren: Marcus, Avery, Macie, Zac, and Miles; brother Marty Ellner of Hiawatha, KS and sister Vicki Ellner of New York. He was preceded in death by his parents Abraham and Mildred Ellner, and brother Larry Ellner. 

A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be left to either The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or Riley County Humane Society. 

The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.  ymlfuneralhome.com

Donna Jean (Lobb) Cunningham Wenger 87 of Hiawatha, passed away September 26th surrounded by her family at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha, Kansas.

Donna was born December 17, 1933 at Oskaloosa, Kansas to George and Willetta (Bell) Lobb.  She attended school at Winchester until 1951 when her parents moved to Hiawatha.  She graduated on May 23, 1952 from Hiawatha High School on the same day she married Dearld Richard Cunningham He preceded her in death December 19, 2002.

On December 27, 2003 she married Virgil Wenger.  He preceded her in death on April 10, 2019.

She loved to sing and sang in the school trio and choir in school and church choirs.
She worked at Sunflower Motel, Centralia lunch room and custodian and then in different nursing homes.  She also worked at Hiawatha Hospital in housekeeping.  She also cleaned houses for many people in Hiawatha.

She is survived by Susan Roche, of Topeka, Debra (Gene) Quirarte of Lawrence, Sandra (Kenneth) Yarger of Centralia, Cindy (Wayne) Kramer of Seneca, and Richard (Leslie) Cunningham of Hiawatha, 17 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren with 1 on the way, and 2 great great grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Mildred Hoecker, Clifford Lobb, Leonard Lobb, Bessie Everret, Imogene Lobb, and Dick Lobb, and a son in law Steven Roche.

A celebration of Donna’s Eternal Life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Friday, October 1, 2021, at Bethany United Church of Christ in Hiawatha.  Pastor Shane Spangler will officiate.  Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 10 a.m. Thursday where the family will meet from 6 until 8 that evening.  MASKS ARE RESPECTFULLY REQUESTED BUT NOT REQUIRED

Memorial contributions are suggested to Bethany United Church of Christ or Donna Wenger Memorial Fund, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434.

Emily Jane Stoll, 95, of Holton, KS, passed away Monday, September 27, 2021 at Medicalodge Jackson County. She was born January 24, 1926 in Banner Township (Holton), KS, the daughter of Frank L. and Josephine M. (McColgin) Davis.

Emily graduated from Holton High School in 1944 and earned her Teaching Certificate from Emporia State Teacher’s College. Emily began teaching in one-room schools in Jackson County and Highland Park Elementary. Emily stayed home with her children, working at Coach House Café at night. Emily worked as Librarian at Royal Valley Grade School for a couple of years and for Jackson Heights Grade School for over 14 years; retiring in 1995.

She was a member of Evangel United Methodist Church. She was a life member of Kansas State Historical Society; volunteering to transcribe many historical documents, including Carrie Nation’s and Samuel Reader’s diaries. Emily was Charter Member of Jackson County Historical Society, member of Samuel Linscott Chapter DAR, Delta Kappa Gamma and Banner Grange.

Emily married Wilbur Schirmer Stoll on December 26, 1959 in Holton. He preceded her in death on January 18, 1977. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Josephine Davis; her first husband, Otis Meyer; sister, Marianne E. McClintock; brother, James Davis and nephew, Harry Patton.

Survivors include her son, William Stoll of Holton, KS; 3 daughters, Mary Beth Stoll of Holton, KS, Melissa Clark (Mike) of Silver Lake, KS and Ann Foster (Alan) of Rossville, KS; sister, Harriet Patton of Nathrop, CO; brother, John E. Davis of Holton, KS; 3 grandchildren, Perry, Ethan and Amelia and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, September 30, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Jackson County Historical Society or Beck-Bookman Library c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Barry B. Lee, 72, of Pawnee City, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 24, 2021 in Columbus, Nebraska.  He was born on November 11, 1948 to Goodson and Betty (Bennett) Lee in Columbus, Nebraska.  Barry grew up in Columbus and later moved to Bellevue and graduated from Bellevue East High School with the class of 1967. 

He married the love of his life Karen Kerr.  To this union two daughters were born Michelle and Tracy.  They lived in Perry, Iowa and he worked for the Old Milwaukee Railroad.  Karen battled many illnesses and he took care of her, she was the center of his world.  Karen passed away in 1987.  

Barry devoted the rest of his life to his daughters and was the best dad and eventually the best grandpa. He retired early and enjoyed his life as simply as possible in Pawnee City.  He loved to golf, camp, fish, travel, Nebraska Football and to sit with close friends by the campfire in the great outdoors. 

Barry enjoyed his family and the small things in life while waiting to reunite with Karen. They are together at last.

He was preceded in life by his father Goodson and wife Karen.

He is survived by his daughters, Michelle (Tom) Van Soelen and Tracy (Ed) Fletcher, mother, Betty Bicking, grandchildren, Kailyn, Maisy, Matthew, Audrey and Olivia, brothers, Jim (Sharon),  Ron and Lee (Sandy), numerous, nieces and nephews and many good friends.                   

A Celebration of Life for Barry will be held on Wednesday, September 29, 2021 from 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Fairview Golf Course Club House, 1700 D Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Dress casual and wear your Husker Red.  Come and share memories of Barry with his family. Memorials in lieu of flowers to family for a later designation.

Inurnment at a later date.  Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com. 

Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary, Pawnee City, Nebraska.

Charlotte Ann (Rieger) Dickinson, 94, of rural Hiawatha, Kansas, passed away Thursday afternoon, September 23, 2021, at Valley Falls, Kansas.  Charlotte was born March 21, 1927, near Powhattan, Kansas, to Lloyd Earl and Winifred May (King) Rieger.

She attended Plum Creek School and graduated from Fairview High School in 1944.

Upon graduation from high school, Charlotte was employed for several years at a Hiawatha bank and later part-time in various offices at the courthouse.

Charlotte was united in marriage to Alvin Emery Dickinson on December 15, 1946, at the Evangelical Reformed Church in Fairview, Kansas.  To this union were born three children:  Linda Stephens, Steven Dickinson, and Brenda McNary.

Following their marriage, Charlotte and Alvin made their home in Hiawatha, Kansas; they moved to a farm south of Hiawatha in 1950.  Charlotte was a farm wife for 41 years and helped Alvin with typical farming activities such as feeding livestock, driving the tractor for hay making, hauling grain to the elevator, taking lunches to the field, and going for repair parts.

Mrs. Dickinson was a longtime member of  Bethany United Church of Christ and Bethany Women’s Guild, where she was very active through the years.  She was also a former Primary Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School teacher, and choir member.  Charlotte was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post 0066, VFW 5210 Ladies Auxiliary, and Maple Leaf Squares.

Charlotte and Alvin enjoyed family vacation trips including visiting family in Okinawa, Japan.  During retirement years, she enjoyed the tour trips which included visiting 49 states, Panama Canal, Bahamas, Jamaica, Mexico, and Canada.

Charlotte was predeceased by her husband Alvin on February 26, 2012, her parents, her sister Kathryn Rees and husband LeRoy Rees, her sister Mary Holt and husband Leonard Holt, her brother Bernard Rieger, her son-in-law Robert Stephens, her brother-in-law Warren Dickinson and wife Dorothy Dickinson, and her sister-in-law Myrtle Krebs and husband Elmer Krebs. 

Survivors include her daughters Linda Stephens of Auburn, Kansas, Brenda (Michael) McNary of Meriden, Kansas, and her son Steven (Kelly) Dickinson of Horton, Kansas, and sister-in-law Glenda Rieger of Hiawatha, Kansas.  

Grandchildren surviving include Marcella (Derek) Barker, Topeka, KS; Stephanie Ness, North Branch, MN; Rebecca Dickinson, Merriam, KS; Bethanie (Dean) Miller, Norfolk, NE; Matthew McNary, Omaha, NE; and Jennifer (Joel) Kruse, St. Louis Park, MN.  Step-grandson is Kenneth (Dawn) Stephens, Hiawatha, KS.

Great-grandchildren surviving include Cody Barker, Trenton Barker, Bailey Dudrey, Dominic Dudrey, Kaleb Miller, Kellie Miller, and Kaycie Miller.   Step-great-grandchildren are Derek Stephens and Althea Jo Jante.  Step-great-great-grandchild is Carter Jante.

A celebration of Charlotte’s life is planned for 10:30 in the morning, Monday, September 27, at the Bethany United Church of Christ in Hiawatha with Pastor Shane Spangler officiating.  Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after noon on Sunday, September 26, where the family will meet with friends from 6 until 8 that evening.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Church Memorial Fund, Brown County Historical Society, or Midland Care Hospice, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha, KS 66434.

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

Michael Edward Batchelder, 71, of Highland, KS peacefully passed away Sept 22, 2021.

Mike was born April 19. 1950, in St. Joseph, Missouri, the oldest of three children of John and Dorothy (Cole) Batchelder and was a lifelong Doniphan County resident where he attended Highland Schools, later graduated from Highland High School with the class of 1969.

Mike has had many health obstacles throughout his life, and he has faced each one head on. Mike could always be depended on to have a smile and make the best of every situation.

Law enforcement was his lifetime career, doing police work in Highland for a number of years. He later served as Doniphan County Deputy Sheriff to full time Sheriff retiring in 2001.

Mike loved his community and was involved in many civic activities including Highland Lions Club, Fire Department, EMS work and was a member of the city council. He was instrumental in helping obtain the funding for the new Fire Department/Community Building,

He was a lifelong active member of Highland United Methodist Presbyterian Church. He especially enjoyed mission work of cooking meals in St. Joseph at the Open-Door Kitchen.

Mike was preceded in death by both parents, and a niece Bobbie Lyn Chauza.

He is survived by 2 sisters, Beverly (Terry) Montgomery of Sabetha, Patti (Bob) Chauza of West Jordan, UT, half-brother Buddy Noah of Phoenix, AZ, niece, Christi Grant and nephews, Daniel, Alex and Ryan Montgomery, great niece Keira Grant and nephew Wesley Grant.

A celebration of Mike’s eternal life is planned for 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 28, 2021, at the Highland United Methodist-Presbyterian Church. Inurnment will follow at the Highland Cemetery. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to service. The wearing of masks is requested.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland from 1 until 4 Monday afternoon.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Highland Community Meal Center which may be sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, PO Box 33, Highland 66035.

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

A special note of thanks to the staffs at Maple Heights Nursing Home and Two Timbers for the excellent care Mike received while residing there.

 

Matthew Jay ‘Matt’ Carroll, Sr., 37, Atchison, KS, passed away Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at the Mosiac Life Care Hospital in St. Joseph, MO. Through the gift of organ donation, Matthew has helped save the lives of others.

Cremation is planned and a visitation with the family will be held on Sunday, September 26, 2021 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home in Atchison. Private family burial will be on Saturday, October 2, 2021, at the Cummings (KS) Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to help the family with final expenses. Words of remembrance and comfort may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Matt was born on March 6, 1984, in Atchison, KS, the son of John H. (Janette) Carroll and Deborah Ann (Hopple) Carroll. Matt attended Atchison Public Schools. Matt was blessed and baptized in Atchison at The Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints. Matt had worked for Golden Star and for the past eleven years was working as a delivery driver for Pizza Hut of Atchison. Matt enjoyed doing yardwork and playing video games.

Matt and Jerica Harris were united in marriage on July 17, 2017, in Rushville, MO. She survives of the home. Matt was preceded in death by Amy Smith, mother to Matthew II and Michael; stepmother, Merry Carroll; a brother, Michael Lee Carroll.

Survivors include his wife, Jerica; his parents, Deborah (Darren) Gilliland, Atchison; Janette Carroll, Atchison; two sons, Matthew Jay Carroll, II, and Michael Carroll; two stepdaughters, Kaylin Harris and Paiten Thummel; sister, Marisol Carroll, and two step-brothers, Kevin and Alex Garcia.

Ralph F. Broxterman, 85, of Vermillion, KS, died September 20, 2021 at his home.

Visitation will be Sunday, September 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Padden Funeral Chapel in Frankfort.

A rosary service will be held at 6:00 p.m., Sunday at Annunciation Catholic Church in Frankfort.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, September 27 at Annunciation Catholic Church.

Burial will be in St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery, Lillis, KS.

A memorial fund has been established to Annunciation Catholic Church.  Contributions may be sent in care of Padden Funeral Chapel.

Patrick Michael McMillin, 67, passed away Friday, September 3, 2021, at Marquis Plaza Regency in Las Vegas. He was born July 10, 1954, in Berchtesgaden, Germany.

Patrick was adopted in 1956 by William R. McMillin and his then wife, Eyvonne, while they were stationed in England with the USAF. He spent much of his young childhood on military bases in several states including Hawaii and his teen years in both California and Colorado.

Patrick graduated high school in Fairplay, CO, in 1972. He received his AS degree at the Florida Institute of Technology. Pat then transferred to the University of Washington where he graduated in 1977 with a BA in Biological and Physical Sciences, with an emphasis in Oceanography. Later, Patrick received his Masters of Science at Navy Post Graduate School in Monterey, CA and attended Marine Corps Command and Staff College in Quantico, VA.  Patrick was enrolled in ROTC while attending the U of W and upon graduation was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. He proudly served his country for 20 years assigned to the Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet and he rose to the rank of Commander.  Patrick was actively involved in both Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He served on the USS Kinkaid, the USS Albert David, the USS Wabash and his final deployment was as Executive Officer Afloat on the USS Brewton. He completed his naval career as Resource Manager of the J-8 Directorate, Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. During his career Patrick was awarded numerous medals including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, 3 Navy Commendation Medals, 3 Navy Achievement Medals and the Joint Meritorious Unit Award. Whenever on leave, Patrick traveled visiting family, friends and many different countries.  He enjoyed playing golf, bicycling and experiencing different cultures.  Patrick faced many challenges during his lifetime including a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) he received from a bicycling accident in 1995. His fortitude, grit and perseverance helped him through the 2 years of rehab relearning many basic physical functions and regaining his independence. Patrick focused on having a positive attitude usually laced with humor. His recovery was a remarkable journey that included resuming his love for running and practicing daily yoga. He was proud of finishing 37 marathons in 17 states during his lifetime. Patrick’s favorite motto after the accident was BTFL-TNTF: Better To Finish Last Than Not To Finish.  Patrick was an active member of the Desert Spring United Methodist Church in Las Vegas where he enjoyed bible study, playing in the bell choir and performing trumpet specials.  Patrick always put God, family and his country above himself. He loved to take pictures of his adventures to share with others. Those pictures reflect a rich life full of unique experiences.  Patrick cherished his family, shipmates, church, neighbors and all the friends he had made near and far.  He was married to Kathleen Schaeffer in 1987 and later divorced. Patrick is survived by his brother, Terry McMillin of Atchison, KS; his sisters, Sharon (Martin) McCallie of Edna, KS; Jeannette (Noel) Rueb of Atchison, KS, and his nephews, James McCallie and Jacob McCallie.  He was preceded in death by his parents William and Sarah McMillin.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at Desert Spring United Methodist Church with Rev. David Devereaux officiating. Interment will be held Tuesday, September 28, 2021, at 1:30 p.m. at Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, KS. Memorials are suggested to the Desert Spring United Methodist Church or to a veterans program of your choice and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who is handling local arrangements. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Orville Lee Dodson, 84, of Onaga, KS, passed away Monday, September 20, 2021 at Onaga Health and Rehab. He was born February 11, 1937 at Christ Hospital in Topeka, KS, the son of Carl and Evelyn (Buehler) Dodson.

Orville earned his Bachelors Degree at Emporia State University and his Master Degree at Pittsburg State University. He was a high school teacher for over 38 years; teaching 21 years in Onaga and 17 years in St. Marys. Orville had a passion for coaching as well. Orville coached the Onaga boys basketball team. He also coached the St. Mary’s boys basketball team and the St. Mary’s girls softball team where he coached the girls to a state title in 1997. After Orville’s retirement in 1997, he coached the Onaga girls basketball team for three years and then officially retired. Orville enjoyed wood working so much that he custom built cabinets for families and he even built a few houses including his own. Most of all, Orville was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, coach, teacher, neighbor and friend. He will be dearly missed!

Orville married Melba Wallisch on June 2, 1957 in Denison, KS. They celebrated over 64 years of marriage. Survivors include his wife, Melba of the home; 2 sons, Lyndall Dodson (Karen) of Kearney, MO and Daryl Dodson (Gina) of Liberal, MO; brother, Lemoyne Dodson (Arlene) of Denison, KS; 5 grandchildren, Dr. Christopher R. Dodson (Sarah), Stephen Dodson, Katie Smith, Mandy Short (Zac) and Kori Dodson and 3 great-grandchildren, Charles Dodson, Tanner Short and Andrew Short.

Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, September 23, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at Denison Cemetery. Orville will lie in state beginning Wednesday at 8 A.M. until service time at the funeral home. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Memorials may be given to the Onaga Senior Center or to the Onaga Historical Museum 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.

Charlene E. Hippen, 83, of Lewiston, Nebraska, passed away Friday, September 17, 2021 at her home at Lewiston, Nebraska. She was born February 20, 1938 to L. H. Lovitt and Marguerite (Hause) (Searcey) Lovitt, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.  

Memorial services: 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at the American Lutheran Church, Filley, Nebraska.  Officiating Pastor Jonathan Jensen.

 A Register book will be available for signing from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.

Memorials to family's choice. Inurnment will be in the Lewiston Cemetery, Lewiston, Nebraska.  Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com. 

Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary, Pawnee City, Nebraska.

Gloria Ann Vollmer (nee Hazen), 87, formerly of Gahanna, Ohio, died peacefully surrounded by her family in Waterloo, IL, on January 17, 2021.

Raised on a farm outside of Denton, she married Air Force pilot, Albert Vollmer, and traveled the world. Gloria was a master seamstress and skilled craftsperson. She could be found with a dachshund on her lap and was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Gloria is survived by her daughters Lizabeth (Dwight) Boehm and Amy (Greg) Fitzgerald; son-in-law Steve (Tracy) Siefert; grandchildren Mitchell and Emma Boehm, Eliza (Jay) Bladen, Alexander and Grant (Brenda) Fitzgerald, John (Meredith), Stephen (Meredith), Patrick (Courtney) and William Siefert; and great-grandchildren James, Madeleine, Mathias and Jillian Siefert, Jack Fitzgerald, and Christopher, William and Gabriel Siefert; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gloria is preceded in death by her husband Lt. Col. USAF (Ret.) Albert Vollmer; son David Vollmer; daughter Anita Siefert; parents Lewis Orville and Georgia Dale (nee Denton) Hazen; and brother Harlan Hazen.

A funeral service will be held at her beloved Denton United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 25 at 10 am. Burial in the Denton Cemetery will follow the service.

Robert “Earl” Koch, age 93, passed away February 3, 2021.  Earl was born September 29, 1927 in Centralia, Kansas to William J. and Clementine Mueller Koch.  He met Cora M. Spacek after his brother Jack stole one of Cora’s senior pictures and brought it home for his brothers to see.  Earl and Cora married November 22, 1953 in Centralia, Kansas.

Earl started trucking at the age of 16. Then after he was able to get his CDL at 21, he hauled cars from Kansas City to Nebraska, South Dakota and North Dakota.  After Earl and Cora were married, they moved to Summerfield, Kansas where Earl and his brother Ed owned and operated the grain elevator.  By 1965 Earl and Cora were ready to try lease trucking and worked with Glenn Keim until 1972.  Then he and Cora established their own corporation of R. Earl Koch Trucking.  He and his drivers did all types of commodities hauling from livestock to U.S. mail routes, watermelons and potatoes.  Mainly he was involved with grain hauling and at one point followed the grain harvest especially in North and South Dakota.

While still running his trucking business in 1981, he purchased a farm in Fairview, Kansas which he farmed until 2005.  Also, Earl and Cora dabbled in buying houses to use as rentals or for repair and resell.  

Earl loved Cora and often said he lost his right hand when she passed away in 2013.  Earl also loved his family.  He loved showing off his daughter Jo Ann, husband Mick and granddaughters Andrea and Allison New at the local diner “Cozy Café,” “Grandpa’s Kitchen” and “Butch’s Bar.”  Earl enjoyed socializing with friends at “the information booth,” as he called it, at the Cozy Café and Ampride.  Earl was always there for anyone who needed a hand and had some very special friends.

Survivors include daughter Jo Ann New and son-in-law Mick New of Topeka,  granddaughters Andrea(Scott) Nei of Rochester, Minnesota and Allison New of Topeka, and sister Mary Ann(Tom) Bulkley of Topeka.  He was proceeded in death by his wife Cora on March 29, 2013, as well as six sisters and three brothers. 

Memorial services will be Saturday, September 25, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at the Rochester Cemetery in Topeka, KS.  Memorial contributions may be made to the United Church of Christ of Fairview, Kansas sent in care of Davidson Funeral Home.  davidsonfuneral.com

 Drusa Fay “Kikiqwah” Wabaunsee, 84 of Hoyt, KS passed away Wednesday, September 15, 2021 surrounded by family at the Onaga Hospital in Onaga, KS. She was born March 1, 1937 in Horton, KS the daughter of Robert E. and Carrie (Puckee) Masquat.

She graduated from Topeka High School in 1955. She also attended Haskell Indian Technical Institute and Highland Community College.

Drusa worked as a secretary at the Royal Valley High School in Hoyt. She worked in the soft count room for many years at the Prairie Band Casino & Resort. She also worked alongside her husband Will in his business “Will’s Drywall” until his retirement.

She was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and descendant of the Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas. She was also a member of the St. Francis Xavier Church and Altar Society. She was also member of the Royal Valley Booster Club, Impact Aid, JOM, Title VII, tribal election board and Hoyt election board.

On February 24, 1962 Drusa was united in marriage to Will Wabaunsee at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Mayetta, KS. They shared over 39 years of marriage before Will passed away on May 9, 2001.

Drusa is survived by 1 son, Lil Will Wabaunsee (Amy) of Tulsa, OK; 4 daughters, Carrie O’Toole (Jim) of Mayetta, KS, Elizabeth Wabaunsee-Tye of Hoyt, KS, Shawnna Wabaunsee of Mayetta, KS, and Ah-Sha-Ni Wabaunsee of Topeka, KS; 17 grandchildren, Kateri, Christopher, Kavan, Josh, Lara, Wilburn, Zabrina, Pallas, Alston, Quo-Jon, Mimi, Alejandra, Elena, Gloria, Victor, Eric and Xavier; 24 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband Will; 3 sisters, Val McKinney, Carole Garrison and Yvonne “Tee” Villegas; 1 brother, Eugene “Chub” R. Masquat.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Mayetta, KS. Burial will follow to Shipshee Cemetery. A rosary will be recited at 6:00 P.M. Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Mayetta, KS. The family will receive friends following the rosary all evening. Memorial contributions may be made to the Royal Valley Booster Club c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave Drusa’s family a condolence, visit www.mercerfunealhomes.com

David Lewis Gilbert, 72, of Holton, KS, passed away Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at Medicalodge Jackson County. He was born August 8, 1949 in Springfield, OH, the son of Charles and Mariemma (Gorman) Gilbert.

David graduated from Springfield Ohio High School and from Southern Louisiana University with his Bachelors Degree. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corp from 1965-1967 during the Vietnam War.

David enjoyed being a car dealer in his early years for Heritage Motors in Odessa, MO. For most of his life he worked as a loan officer for many banking institutions.

 He was a member of the Evangel United Methodist Church, member and Past-President of Holton Lions Club and member of Holton V.F.W. Post 1367.

David was proud to have Sandra K. (Murphy) Mitchell-Studebaker-Gilbert as his wife. They were united in marriage on April 1, 2013 in Council Grove, KS.

 Survivors include his wife, Sandy Gilbert of the home; son, Andrew Gilbert of San Antonio, TX; daughter, Suzanne Kreutzer of Overland Park, KS and sister, Anne Beidler (Peter) of Seattle, WA.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mariemma Gilbert and a brother, Gorman Gilbert.

 Honoring David’s request, cremation is planned. Memorial Service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 24, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Inurnment with Military Honors conducted by Holton V.F.W. Post 1367 will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Memorials may be given to Evangel United Methodist Church or Holton VFW Post 1367 c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, Kansas 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Billy G. Price, 73, of Holton, KS, passed away Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at his home with family by his side. He was born January 8, 1948 in Breckenridge, MN, the son of Jess W. and Alice M. (Korth) Price.

Billy proudly served in the United States Navy from 1967 – 1971, during the Vietnam War. He worked for 14 years in construction and for 101 Greystone Graphics in Kansas City. Billy was a member of Holton V.F.W. Post 1367.

He married Sarah J. Price; they later divorced.

Survivors include his son, Billy Price of Mayetta, KS; 2 daughters, Emilee Gordon (Matthew) of Overland Park, KS and Heather Price of Lawrence, KS; 3 sisters, Karen Nester (Eddie) of Rockport, TX, Jessie Cochran (Kenneth) of Washington and Pauline Mitchell (Larry) of St. Joseph, MO; 3 brothers, Dan Price of Gladstone, MO, Sammy Price (Pamela) of Kearney, MO and Tommy Price of Colorado and 5 grandchildren, Shanokwe, Felicity, Hadley, Graham and Miles.

Billy is preceded in death by his parents and a brother Eugene Price.

Memorial graveside service with military honors will be held 10:30 A.M. Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at the Holton Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Holton VFW Post #1367 c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave Billy’s family a condolence, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Donald C. McRae, 88, Atchison, Kansas died Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at his home.

Christian funeral services will be Saturday, September 18, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with Pastor Marty Reed officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Saturday, beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Atchison Project Concern or Atchison Humane Society and may be left in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom the final arrangements have been entrusted. Masks during the service are encouraged.

Don was born December 20, 1932 in Atchison, Kansas and attended school in Atchison and Augusta, KS, graduating in 1952 from Atchison High.  He served in the United States Coast Guard, following in his older brothers’ footsteps.

After his return to Atchison, he began his career at the Atchison Water Department where he retired as crew superintendent after 44 years of service.  

He met Mary “Carol” Seeger, and was united in marriage on May 12, 1956 at St. Joseph’s Church by Fr. Matthew Hall, OSB.

He was a member of the American Legion and previously a volunteer for Atchison Project Concern as a meal delivery person for Meals on Wheels.

Don enjoyed playing golf at Pineview Country Club after learning to play while a young caddy with his brothers and cousins at Bellevue CC.  An avid supporter of Atchison High sports and Benedictine football and basketball, he could always be heard cheering for his teams, especially when a grandson or granddaughter was performing. 

Survivors include a son, Steve (Sandy) McRae, Rose Hill, KS; a daughter, Kim (Tom) Bartlett, Atchison, KS; five grandchildren, Amie Johnson (fiancé Bruce Spilman), Breanna (Tim) Hottovy, Jared (Whitney) McRae, Dustin (Abby) Bartlett, Tobin (Kelsey) Bartlett; one step-grandchild, Corey (Brock) Hinz;  ten great grandchildren, Macie and Adam Molt, Avery, Wyatt and Cash Hottovy, Landon and Ellis McRae, Carter, Hogan and Keaton Bartlett; and three step-great grandchildren, Allysen Owens, Tristan and Taylin Merkle.

He was preceded in death by his spouse, Mary Carol (Seeger) McRae; parents Merlin and Bessie (Stickler) McRae; a grandson Jason Johnson;  brothers, Frank Kurtz, Murray McRae, Robert “Bob” McRae and sisters, Mary Francis Kinney and Connie Canterberry. 

Ronald Louis "Wash-Way-Heng-Yeh" Medicine Horse, 75, of Falls City, Nebraska, passed away quietly at his home on Sunday, September 12, 2021.

He was born on July 31, 1946 in Horton, Kansas the son of Frank Medicine-Horse Jr. and Geraldine Dupuis and was raised on the Kickapoo Reservation. He graduated from Powhattan High School in 1964 and attended Haskell Community College. Ron worked as a certified welder at Topeka Iron and was a roofer in the Topeka and Kansas City area until he retired. He was also known for his art work and carvings of fire sticks. Some of his art work has been displayed in the Indian Casino's in the area.

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Medicine Horse of the home, Falls City, Nebraska; two daughters, Frankie Medicine Horse of Falls City, Nebraska and Beth Wabnum of Horton, Kansas; two sons, Ronald Wabnum of Kansas City, Missouri and Colin Medicine Horse of Lawrence, Kansas; two step daughters, Tabitha Cowhick of Olathe, Kansas and Sharon Cowhick of Nevada, Missouri; two step sons, Fred Cowhick of Rich Hill, Missouri and Kenneth Cowhick of Alabama; ten grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren; nine sisters, Beverly (Marty) Greemore of Topeka, Kansas, Nancy Bear of Horton, Kansas, Kathy (Russell) Bradley of Horton, Kansas, Barbara Weaver McIntosh of Alabama, Patti (Otis) Sampleton of Manhattan, Kansas, Debbie (Frank) Tartsah of Cacahe, Oklahoma, Barbara Medicine Horse of Lodge Grass, Montana, J-Shon Skinner of Lodge Grass, Montana and Wanda Medicine Horse of Lodge Grass, Montana; two brothers, Raymond Schuetz of Horton, Kansas and James Medicine Horse of Lodge Grass, Montana; numerous nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his mother, Geraldine, father, Frank Medicine Horse Jr., step-father, Robert Schuetz, three sisters, Diana Medicine Horse, Lydia Vi Medicine Horse and Anita Haukaas, and a brother, Frank Medicine Horse III.

Friends may call at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary on Wednesday from 2 to 4:00 P.M. A private family service will be held on Thursday at the mortuary. Burial will follow at the Kennekuk Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Robert (Bob) Dean Hirsch, Sr (Pup) passed away September 13th at Amberwell Hiawatha, Hiawatha KS. He was born February 8, 1932 in Fairbury, NE, the second son to Alvin Carl and Veda Mae Hirsch. The family moved to Powhattan when he was 8 years old where Bob attended Powhattan Grade School and graduated in 1950 from Powhattan High School. Bob had a football scholarship to play at Kansas State University, but due to an injury he lost his scholarship. He joined the Kansas Army National Guard in 1949 and served over 30 years with 154th FA BN & 2nd BN 130TH FA, retiring with a rank of CSM and 10 years in the Retired Reserves. He was mobilized in 1968 with the 69th Bde to Fort Carson Co where he volunteered to serve in Vietnam. He was inducted into the Ancient Order of Saint Barbara of the Field Artillery.

On December 6th, 1953 he married the love of his life, Barbara Harvey, to this union were 6 children. They spent the majority of their lives in Powhattan KS, where he worked many years for Bartley Grain Elevator, Brown County Coop, and later the Robinson Coop. He was very active and dedicated to his church, community and country. He was a lifelong member of Powhattan United Methodist Church and longtime Powhattan School Board member, where he served as president for many years. He was a member of Hiawatha Elks Lodge 1741 and later Atchison Elks Lodge 647. where he served many years on the Kansas Elks KETCH board, was District Deputy for the National Grand Lodge of the Elks and coordinated many hoop shoots. He was a member of Hiawatha Masonic Lodge #35, Life time member of the Powhattan American Legion Wenger Post 373. Life time member of Sabetha VFW Post 7285. In his later years he got involved with making Sleeping Mats for homeless vets. He continued this until his hands wouldn’t let him due to arthritis.

Bob is survived by his wife, Barbara, Daughter in Law Susan Hirsch Netawaka, Childen, Peggy (Rick) Hutchison Wakarusa KS, Fred (Joan) Abilene KS, Terry (Jean) Hiawatha KS, and Ron, Sabetha KS. His siblings, Leroy (Sylvia) Mesa, AZ, Larry (Bernita) Syracuse, KS and Rose Ann (Gene) Odermatt, Topeka KS, Sisters in Laws Virginia Lee Hirsch Lorton VA, Mary Hirsch Hiawatha KS. Grandchildren Jenna (Art) Merriman Shawnee KS, Jessica (Philip) Jeffery Tonganoxie KS, Danielle Hutchison Overland Park KS, Bryan (Kelsee) Hirsch, Horton KS, Michelle (Doug) Niehues, Holton KS, Brent (Abbey) Hays KS, Michael Hirsch, Hiawatha KS, Steven Hirsch Sabetha KS, Ashley (Paul) Janzen Hesston KS, April Braxdale, Sabetha KS, Great Grandchildren, Zoe and Xander Merriman, Aria and Ella Jeffery, Soyer and Shelbi Coan, Rachel and Charlotte Hirsch, Henry Niehues, Lucy Hirsch, Alyssa Braxdale And 2 more expecting great grandchildren, and numerous nieces & nephews.

Bob preceded in death by parents, his sons Robert Dean Jr (Bobby), Walter Bryan. Brothers Fred, Dennis and Jim and Sister and Brother-in-Law Carol and Mike Brady

His enjoyed fishing, hunting, watching NASCAR. He tried to attend all of his Kids and grandkid’s activities, often driving many miles to watch their activities. A grandfather like no other.

Celebration of life service is planned for 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 17, 2021, at the Powhattan United Methodist Church. Interment will follow with military honors at Powhattan Cemetery.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 10 a.m. Thursday where the family will meet with friends that evening from 6 until 7:30.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Powhattan Methodist Church or Powhattan American Legion, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

A special message may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com which is also live streaming site.

Scott Underwood, 39, of Overland Park, KS, formerly of Atchison, KS, passed away Friday, September 10, 2021, at University of Kansas Health System.

Celebration of life service will be 2:30 PM, Saturday, September 18, 2021, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS, with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as Celebrant. The family will receive friends from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to help defray funeral costs or Atchison Humane Society or Unleashed Pet Rescue and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Scott was born February 2, 1982, in Atchison KS, the son of Frankie Underwood and Marla DeJonge (Wolfe). He graduated from Atchison High School in 2001 and then attended Kansas University earning a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. Scott was the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Operations at Orizon Aerostructures, Kansas City, MO. He loved his family, and his children were his pride and joy. He also enjoyed watching sports and going to the lake.

Scott is survived by his mother Marla DeJonge, Kansas City, MO, his father Frankie and Debbie Underwood, Independence, MO, his fiancé Katie Heeter and son Hendrix, Overland Park, KS, Hudson, Avi Underwood and their mother Lindsay Underwood, Olathe, KS, maternal grandparents Kay and Larry Wolfe, Atchison, KS, two brothers Jason DeJonge, Lawrence, KS, Shawn (Missy) Underwood, Smithville, MO, a sister Kimberly (Jordan) Buhler, Excelsior Springs, MO and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins.

Scott was preceded in death by a brother Dustin Underwood, his aunt Kimberly Wolfe, his paternal grandparents, and maternal great grandparents.

 Sally D. Shirley, 83, of Grantville, passed away peacefully after an extended illness on Friday, September 10, 2021. 

Sally was born July 24, 1938 at Des Moines, IA, the daughter of Charles Ellsworth and Evelyn Hanson Buford. She was a 1956 graduate of East High School and a 1958 graduate of Grandview College in Des Moines, IA.  Sally was proud to have been elected a cheerleader.  She earned her teaching certificate and taught school in Reno, NV, Topeka and Grantville.  She married Robert W. Shirley on July 19, 1959 at Grantville, where they raised their three daughters, Diane, Saundra and Carla.

Sally was an active member of Grantville United Methodist Church. After her girls were grown, Sally opened her own successful business named Sally’s Ladies Apparel in Topeka and at one time had three open locations. She served a term as President of Downtown Topeka, Inc., which supported growth among downtown Topeka businesses. She was an avid reader and a life-long student of history. Sally loved learning about the history of Grantville and was a contributor to a book of essays recording the Shirley family contributions to local history.

 She is survived by her husband, Robert “Bob” Shirley, Grantville, three daughters, Diane Shirley, Saundra Shirley, both of Grantville, Carla (Jimmy) Henson, Bixby, OK, a sister, Gloria Weixelman, Topeka, , a grandson, Jared Shirley, Asheville, N.C., and granddaughter, Jenna Henson, Bixby, OK. She will also be missed by countless nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and friends that she leaves and who were inspired by her tireless energy and boundless goodwill.
 

A Grave Side Service will be 1:00 PM, Thursday, September 16, 2021 at Grantville Cemetery, all are welcome. A time of visitation will be at the Shirley home in Grantville following Services at the Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Memorials suggested to Jefferson County Friends of Hospice or to Grantville United Methodist Church in care of Barnett Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602,  Oskaloosa, KS,  66066.  barnettfamilyfh.com

“What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose,
  for all that we love deeply becomes part of us.”

Raymond Vinsonhaler, 80, of Falls City, NE, passed away September 12, 2021 at Falls City. He was born on June 27, 1941 to Clarence and Edith (Grady) Vinsonhaler.

He married Delores Schawang in February of 1971 and they were later divorced. He married Ruth Meugniot in 1990 and they were later divorced.

Raymond enlisted in the United States Air Force on July 23, 1963, he earned a good conduct medal and was honorably discharged on May 1, 1967.

Raymond was raised at Falls City and graduated from Falls City High School in 1960. Following graduation he took employment with Frontier Homes and then Falls City Creamery. He then enlisted in the Air Force and upon his discharge returned to Falls City and then moved to Omaha, NE where he worked for Conagra. He returned to Falls City and worked various jobs, most notably he managed the Legion Club and worked at Corner Liquor. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, VFW, American Legion, DAV, Falls City Honor Guard and Elks Lodge, all of Falls City.

Raymond is survived by step-children, Ann Huerter and her husband Jim of Topeka, Kim Bauman of Topeka, Candy Bauman of Falls City, Jeff Hoppe of Falls City, Lari Joe Thompson and her husband Todd of Rulo, many step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Don and Larry and a step-child, Don Hoppe.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 10:00 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Lawrence Stoley as the presiding priest. Inurnment will be in Steele Cemetery. Military graveside honors by Falls City Ceremonial Honor Guard.

A Parish Rosary will be recited on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 9:30 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

David M. Dishon, 71, of St. Joseph, Missouri formerly of Troy, Kansas passed away Friday, September 10, 2021 at St.Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City. 

David was born on October 26, 1949 in Elwood, Kansas to Robert and Doris (Paden) Dishon.  He graduated from Wathena High School, served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam.  David worked for Nash Fuel Transport as a fuel transport driver. 

He attended Frederick Boulevard Baptist Church in St. Joseph, Missouri. 

David married Marilee Gaither on March 23, 1974 in St. Joseph, Missouri.  She survives of the home.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Rex Dishon. 

Additional survivors include his children; Stefanie Dishon (Jeremiah Horn) of Grain Valley, Missouri 

                                       Jason Dishon (Tiffany) of Troy, Kansas 

                                   Kelly Fuemmeler (Robert) of Troy, Kansas 

         6 grandchildren; Gavin, Eva, Logan, Alex, Isabella and Liam 

                     Brothers; Marc Dishon (Cindy) of St. Joseph, Missouri 

                                    Kevin Dishon (Gail) of Wathena, Kansas 

                           Sister-in-law: Marcia Dishon of Indianapolis, Indiana 

                       Nieces and nephews 

FUNERAL:  Wednesday, September 15, 2021 – 11:00 A.M. 

               At: Troy First Christian Church in Troy, Kansas 

    Visitation; the family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the funeral service at the church (10am-11am) 

   Friends may call after 9 am Tuesday at the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Troy. 

         Burial: Mount Olive Cemetery in Troy, Kansas where there will be Military Honors under the auspices of the U.S. Army.  

    Memorials:  Troy Ambulance 

                                 www.harmanrohde.com  

David Walz, 68, of Falls City, NE, passed away September 10, 2021 at Falls City. He was born September 17, 1952 at Sabetha, KS.

He married Maria Zezer on April 2, 2004 at Falls City.

David was raised at Sabetha and enlisted in the United States Nave, when he was discharged he attended Washington State University, moving back to Falls City in 1999. He worked at Telemarketing, Crosswinds in Sabetha and then in Hiawatha in quality assurance. He retired in December of 2020.

David is survived by his wife, Maria of Falls City, sons, Scott Reynolds of Sabetha, Chuck Reynolds of Falls City and special friends, Jim and Angel Cole of Falls City. He was preceded in death by his parents and four sisters.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 18, 2021 at 1:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home.

Friends and family may sign a guest book during regular business hours.

Dolores M. Brucken, 90, formerly of Soldier, passed away on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha.

She was born January 24, 1931 at St. Benedict, the daughter of Henry and Frances Holthaus Osterhaus.

Before her marriage, Dolores had worked as a nurse’s aide in Seneca. After raising her children, she cooked for the Emmett Sale Barn, and later for Golden Acres Nursing Home in Onaga for more than twenty years.

She was a member of St. Dominic Catholic Church in Holton, and the Altar Society and Mary Ann Circle at the church. She also taught CCD and had been the Religious Education Coordinator at one time.

She married Lawrence “Hap” Brucken on April 29, 1950 in St. Mary Catholic Church at St. Benedict. He preceded her in death on February 10, 2012.

Dolores was also preceded in death by her parents, two sons, John Brucken and Pat Brucken, two brothers, Eddie Osterhaus, who died in childhood, and Marvin Osterhaus, and a sister, JoAnn Sandmann.

Survivors include three sons, Garry Brucken (Linda), Circleville, Allen Brucken (Dorinda), Alma and Galen Brucken (Tena), Soldier; two daughters, JoAnn Trinder (John), Kansas City, MO and Joleen Tannahill (Jack), Soldier; five brothers, Robert Osterhaus (Zita), Summerfield, Dick Osterhaus (Kay), Beatrice, NE, Jerry Osterhaus (Judy) Seneca, Dennis Osterhaus (Kathy), Sabetha and Hank Osterhaus, Salem, NE; four sisters, Mildred Eisenbarth, Hoyt, Sr. Mary Immaculata, Milwaukee, WI, Sharon Broxterman (Richard), Sabetha and Jeanette Koch (Elmer), Kansas City, MO, twenty-two grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 15th at St. Dominic Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, west of Holton. Dolores will lie in state after 9:00 a.m. Tuesday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Holton where a Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m., followed by visitation until 8:00. Memorials are suggested to St. Dominic Catholic Church, and may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 1034, Holton, KS 66436.

Roger West, Jr., 81, of Falls City, NE, passed away September 10, 2021 at Lincoln, NE. He was born November 23, 1939 at Cole Camp, MO to Roger & Maxine (Shumaker) West, Sr.

He married Joanne Bohlken at Hiawatha, KS and divorced in 1990. He then married Larrita Boatman on April 17, 1993 at Falls City.

Roger was raised and graduated from Falls City High School in 1957. He attended Midland College and then Peru State College. He started the Junior Midget Program in Falls City while still in college. He became employed by Missouri Pacific Railroad and worked for 42 years. He retired as a conductor in 2001 with the Union Pacific. He was a member of First Christian Church and was a church Elder and served in many capacities.

Roger is survived by his wife, Larrita West of Falls City, daughters, Debra West of Omaha, Michelle West and Pamela Farmer both of Lincoln, step-daughter, Glenda Harders and her husband Roger of Wahoo, NE, step-sons, Kent Buchholz and his wife Julie of Plattsmouth, NE, Jay Morehead and his wife Shari of Falls City, sister, Carol Frederick of Blair, NE, twelve grandchildren and twenty great-great grandchildren.

His funeral will be held on Thursday, September 16, 2021 at 10:30 A.M. at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Boatright officiating. Interment will be Steele Cemetery.

Open visitation will begin Tuesday afternoon.

Mary Ann (Robke) Vondemkamp, 85, of Seneca, Kansas, passed away on Friday, September 10, 2021, at Life Care Center of Seneca.  

Mary Ann was born April 10, 1936 in Axtell, to August (Gus) and Pauline (Paula) Runnebaum Robke.  She was the fourth of eight children, and attended Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School, graduating in 1953.   

On April 17, 1956, Mary Ann married Richard Vondemkamp at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Seneca. They lived and farmed southeast of Centralia, Kansas for 40 years. In 1996 they built a new home and moved to Seneca.

Mary Ann was employed at Citizens State Bank and Trust in Seneca, Kansas for a total of 32 years, retiring as Vice President in 1998. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Church and the St. Ann’s Altar Society, and a former member of St. Bede’s in Kelly. Mary Ann volunteered at Sts. Peter & Paul Mission Center, the church’s quilting group, with the parish’s funeral dinners, and with the Red Cross Bloodmobile.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Al and Ray Robke; a sister, Agatha; and a son-in-law, Robert Lada.

Mary Ann is survived by her husband of 65 years, Richard; her two sons; Michael of St. Joseph, Missouri and Tim (Bernadette) Vondemkamp of Argyle, Texas; two daughters, Linda Lada of Wamego and Diane (Curt) Carlisle of Joplin, Missouri; two sisters, Rita Kelly of Gladstone, Missouri and Sharon Hurley of Wichita, Kansas; two brothers, Joe Robke of Seneca, Kansas and Herb Robke of Kansas City, Missouri; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

A rosary will be prayed at 7 PM Monday, September 13, 2021 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.  The burial will be in St. Bede’s Cemetery in Kelly.  

Memorials are to be Nemaha Valley Community Hospital or a charity of your choice.
To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

George “Bud” Kautz, who grew up on a farm in Atchison County and lived most of his life in Atchison, Kansas, passed away on September 9, 2021. He was 88 years old, born on January 15, 1933. His family was with him throughout his life and at the time his life here on Earth ended. George passed as he lived his life, surrounded by his three girls and JoAnn, his high school sweetheart and spouse of 67 years. He is survived by JoAnn, his children Kathryn Barrett, Leesa Willming and Janelle Kautz Hegarty, his son-in-laws Gene Barrett and Mark Hegarty, his grandchildren Kadi (and husband Joe), Michael, Blake, Spencer and granddog Bo, and his greatgrandchildren, Landon and Luke. George’s family also included his son-in-law Bill Willming, brother Glen Kautz and his parents, George and Etta Kautz, who preceded him in death.

His family loved him dearly and will keep in their memories and hearts his quiet way and selfless love and look forward to when they will be reunited with him in God’s Kingdom. George graduated from the Atchison County Community High School and proudly served in the Army during the Korean War, where he was elected to leadership school. After serving his country, George worked at the LFM foundry and Kansas Grain Inspection Department before joining the United States Postal Service. He retired from the Postal Service after 37 years. George and JoAnn stayed active in retirement, traveling, spending time with their family and volunteering for many years at the Atchison Hospital and delivering books to the homebound for the Atchison Library. In 2018, George and JoAnn received an award from the Northeast Kansas Library Association. George was also a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

The Rosary for George will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, September 13, 2021, at Becker Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, 800 Kansas Avenue, Atchison, Kansas. Visitation will follow the Rosary until 8:00 PM. The Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday September 14, 2021, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 705 Spring Garden Street, Atchison, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Words of comfort for the family may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Gerald “Jack” H. Weishaar, 95 of Nortonville, KS, passed away Wednesday, September 8, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM, Monday, September 13, 2021, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Nortonville, KS, with Fr. Lazar Carasalas as Celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Nortonville, KS. Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM, Sunday, September 12, 2021, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church with visitation following until 8:00 PM. Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph Catholic Church, for Mass Intentions or Amberwell Home Health and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton and O’Trimble Funeral Home, who has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences to the family may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Jack was born July 3, 1926, in Nortonville, KS, the son of John and Cecelia (Bertels) Weishaar. Jack was an avid farmer, who raised cattle, pigs early on in his life along with being a row crop farmer. He loved raising animals and taking care of them along with showing his children the necessities of making sure the animals were given good care and it takes hard work for the animals to grow and be ready for market. The farm was his livelihood and his success of raising good animals and having good crops was his passion. Jack took great pride in his work while instilling the proper values in his children and raising them well by proper examples. Other things he took great pride in during his long life were straight rows of corn & beans, good looking Angus cattle and Hampshire hogs, while maintaining his well-maintained homestead. His life evolved around farming & being a true “Steward of the Land” as evidenced with his Soil Conservation Award he received in 1992. Jack basically did most of his own work on the farm with the help of his children while they lived at home. When it came to constructing buildings or maintaining farm equipment, he did most of his own work. He also liked to grow a big garden where much of the food was grown and raised on the farm. He worked well into his eighties. He didn’t want to give up farming, but still helped his nephew with items around the farm like driving tractors and other mild work. He was a lifelong member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus for 76 years.

Jack married Freida Noll on December 26, 1956; she survives of the home. He is also survived by his children Randy and Sandy Weishaar, Flower Mound, TX, Rick and Debby Weishaar, Nortonville, KS, Russell “Rusty” and Lori Weishaar, Wathena, KS, Glen and Rebecca Weishaar, Nortonville, KS, Deb and Mike Reagan, Rushville, MO, a brother William Weishaar, Nortonville, KS, seventeen grandchildren and twenty-five great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Chris Weishaar, a brother, Harold Weishaar, five sisters, Ruth Forge, Dorothy Domann, Marceline Weishaar, Mildred Weishaar and Geraldine Weishaar.

James William “Jim” Baxter, 78, of Holton, KS, passed away Thursday, September 9, 2021 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, KS. He was born July 10, 1943 in Corning, KS, the son of Fred J. and Lena L. (Hittle) Baxter.

Jim graduated from Goff Rural High School in 1961. He served in the Army Reserves.

He worked as a Boilermaker for Santa Fe Railroad for 33 years; retiring in 2003. He was a musician, pianist and singer for most of his life; playing with Classic Country, 15 Minutes Late and Prairie Pickers. Jim’s love for music was also shared with his family, singing and playing with his son, grandson, granddaughter and great-nephew.

Jim was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Holton.
          
He married Beverly Ann Bohnenkemper on December 12, 1965 in Holton at Trinity Lutheran Church. They have celebrated over 55 years of marriage.
          
Survivors include his wife, Beverly of the home; daughter, Christianna Hartman (Thad) of Topeka, KS; son, James “Michael” Baxter formerly of Holton, KS; 2 grandchildren, Claire (Mitchell) Hartman and Max Hartman; sister, Barb McGinnis of Topeka, KS; sister-in-law, Linda Baxter of Onaga, KS; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
          
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lena Baxter; infant daughter, Heather Baxter; brother, Herb Baxter and brother-in-law, Dan McGinnis.    
          
Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, September 13, 2021 at the Trinity Lutheran Church. Burial will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Family request casual attire. Jim will lie in state at the Mercer Funeral Home beginning Saturday afternoon thru Sunday until 6:30 p.m. Memorials may be given to the Trinity Lutheran Church or Prairie Pickers 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.
 

Janice M. Carpenter, 94, of Falls City, NE, passed away September 9, 2021 at Falls City. She was born May 12, 1927 at Barada, NE to William John and Bertha (Kuker) Honea.

She married William S. Carpenter on September 13, 1945 at Hiawatha, KS. He passed away February 27, 2006.

Janice was raised in the Barada area and attended Barada School. Following her schooling she did domestic work and also worked at Brown’s Café. When married the couple established their home in Kansas City, later moving to Richardson County. She was a homemaker and farm wife and enjoyed attending her children and grandchildren’s events. She moved to town in 1978 and has lived here since. She attended First Christian Church

Janice is survived by her son, Marlin and his wife Kelly of Falls City, daughters, Marlene Honea of Carbondale, KS, Charlene Chellew and her husband Ron of Hiawatha, seven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers, Orville, Marvin, Owen and Howard Honea and a sister, Opal Duncan.

Her funeral will be held on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

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

Phyllis Koelliker, surrounded by family passed from this life into eternal life September 8, 2021, at her home in Hiawatha. She was 80.

Phyllis was born December 23, 1940, at Troy, one of two children born to James Daniel and Helen Margaret Garvin Hopkins and has lived in the northeast Kansas area nearly all of her life. She grew up at Troy where she attended schools. Phyllis was a licensed cosmetologist, working with her mother Helen in the beauty shop they operated in Highland. She loved being around kids of all ages and cooking allowed that opportunity. She was a cook at Highland High School, and at Highland College Student Union for a while, and was a Head Start Teacher. She was dedicated to Gary and the kids.

Phyllis had the biggest heart! If someone needed help, she was there whether it was family, church, or community, you could count on her. She was a longtime member of the Community of Christ Church, where she cooked for Peacemakers. In her spare time, she loved to quilt and made one for the children and grandchildren. While quilting, the TV was on and she enjoyed Matlock and Perry Masson series. She read Amish books written by Janette Oke, and enjoyed making pizza, scotharoos and potato salad for family and friends. Phyllis also sang for several churches in the area as part of their service. It was always a date: the day after Christmas, she and the grand-daughters went shopping to spend their Christmas money!

She married Gary Koelliker, December 9, 1959, at the Fanning Church. They made Highland their home until just a few months ago when they moved to Hiawatha. An interesting note is an opportunity presented itself for them to be chosen to work for a time for Ewing and Muriel Kaufman in Kansas City: she cooked and he worked maintenance. Gary survives of the home.

Also surviving are her son Gregg Koelliker of Palmyra MO, daughters: Angie Cluck (David) of Highland, Julie Bachman (Jim) of Hiawatha, Grandchildren: Tyler Koelliker (Lora), Morgen Irvin (T.J.), Amelia Atkinson (Steven), Nick Cluck, Matt Cluck (Jennifer), Miranda Jensen (A.J.), Jordan Cluck (Tiara), Molly Wallenberg, Meghan McClintock (Tyrel), Michael Hurd (Michelle), Gary “Bear” Koelliker (Taylor), and Adam Wilmes. Phyllis was blessed also to have 22 great-grandchildren in her life and one on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son Randy Koellker, a daughter Penny Koelliker and a brother James Daniel “Bud” Hopkins.

A Celebration of Phyllis’s eternal life is planned for 11 a.m. Monday, September 13, 2021, at Community of Christ in Fanning.

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Community of Christ Church, sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

A special message may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com which is also the livestreaming site

Florence “Flo” Gieber, (pronounced Ga-bar) 74, of St. George, Kansas, passed away on September 6.

Florence was born August 2, 1947, in Sabetha, to Jack & Aldine Mathewson.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, September 10th, at 10:00 am, at St. Edward Catholic Church in Belleville, with burial following at St. Isidore Catholic Cemetery in Cuba.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 9th, from 1:00 pm until 7:00 pm, with family greeting friends from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home.

Rosary/Vigil Services will be held at 6:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorials are requested to the Cuba Booster Club, St. Isidore Catholic Church or Hope Brown County, and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home of Belleville has arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

Rocky Gabriel Gene Delfs, lived for 15 years on this earth and crossed the finish line on August 31, 2021, at Children’s Mercy Hopsital in Kansas City, Missouri from a rare birth defect, Brugada Syndrome. Through the loss of Rocky, he was able to save his brother’s life by learning he has the same syndrome and five others through organ donation. His memory will live on forever through others.

Celebration of Rocky’s Life will be Friday, September 10, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. in the lawn of Rocky’s House, 517 Parallel Street, Atchison, KS. Burial will follow in Mt. Vernon Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be on Thursday, September 9th from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home to assist the family with Rocky’s farewell.

Rocky was born on October 11, 2005, in Tucson, AZ, the son of Judy Eckes. He has a sister, Ella Eckes. On July 15, 2015, he and his twin brother were adopted by William C. Delfs and Joseph H. Leotaud. They lived in Tucson, AZ, until moving to Atchison, KS, in December of 2019. While in Tucson, he played Jr. High football and was in the school plays. He spent most Friday nights at Joe’s alma mater watching the high school football games and weekends hiking in the mountains.

Rocky was currently a student at Atchison High School and was so excited to be able to be at a new school and on the Cross-Country Team. All throughout his schooling he was a Straight A Student and aspired to do great things and invent new technology. He always said he was going to create something amazing and make the family rich!

He was insistent on always be the center of attention and wanted to make sure everyone liked him; he was no doubt a people pleaser! He was a confident, friendly person, but was competitive about everything he did. He was going to make sure he always won! When he was right, he would make sure to constantly remind you. His kind spirit and constant sarcasm will be forever missed, but never forgotten.

Rocky’s animals were considered siblings and were treated like family. He is survived by his parents, Bill Delfs and Joe Leotaud; three brothers, his twin brother, Alias Delfs, Joshua Delfs, Timothy Delfs; grandparents, William (Cece) Delfs, Sr. and Gladstone Leotaud; two aunts, Deborah Delfs, Wanda (Ray) Kerrins, and his cousins, Craig Beckham, Scott Beckham, Ysela Bedolla, Derek Kerrins, Tyler Kerrins, Lex Shaw, Gavin Shaw and Annabelle Shaw.

He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Lucy Leotaud and Julaine Sue Atkinson, and an aunt, Christina Delfs.

Larry Dean Leck, 74, of Holton, KS, passed away Sunday, September 5, 2021 at The Pines in Holton. He was born September 28, 1946 in Marysville, KS, the son of H. Paul and Eva (Allerheiligen) Leck.

Larry graduated from Washington High School earning the FFA State and American Farmer Degree. He had also lived in the Washington and Netawaka communities. Larry was a farmer and stockman, drove the school bus for Jackson Heights USD 335, worked for Noxious Weed in Washington County and also worked for BMB in Holton for many years.

Larry was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church in Netawaka, KS. He set a World Drag Racing Record with American Hot Rod Association in August of 1969.

Survivors include his children, Deanna McAllister (Joe) of Holton, KS, Kirk Leck of St. Joseph, MO, Kelly Devinney (Sonya) of Merkel, TX and Jacob Devinney (Mehrnaz) of Pleasanton, CA; a sister, Rosalie Bernasek (Galen) of Washington, KS; a brother, John Leck (Mary) of Washington, KS; 10 grandchildren, Haley, Jenna, McKenzie, Skyler, Kody, Cyrus, Soraya, Heather, Bentley and Manuel.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Eva Leck and a brother, Donald Leck.

Family will greet friends 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 9, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 10, 2021 at Ward Funeral Home in Washington, KS. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Washington Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Netawaka Immanuel Lutheran Church or Washington County FFA 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.

Richard Earl Dugan, 83, of Soldier, KS, passed away Saturday, September 4, 2021 at The Pines in Holton. He was born July 26, 1938 in Circleville, KS, the son of John T. Dugan, Sr. and Lezetta May (Schultz) Dugan.

Richard graduated from Circleville High School in 1957. He proudly served in the United States Army.

He was a lifelong farmer and dairyman. He was Baptized at the Circleville Christian Church in his high school years. Richard was a member of Soldier Lions Club, Holton V.F.W. Post 1367 and had served as a 4-H Leader.

Richard married Mary Anna McKinney on April 17, 1961 in Miami, OK. She preceded him in death on May 9, 2015; after over 54 years of marriage. He was also preceded in death by his parents, John and Lezetta Dugan; infant son, Michael A. Dugan; infant daughter, Julia May Dugan and brother, John T. Dugan, Jr.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Wendy Edwards (Louis) of Netawaka, KS and Barbara Polson (Thad) of Nortonville, KS; 2 sons, Richard Dugan (Michele) of St. George, KS and Kenneth Dugan of Corinth, TX; sister, Ethel M. Caulk (Tracy) of Rockingham, NC; 3 brothers, Charles E. Dugan (JoAnn) of Delia, KS, Wilbur D. Dugan of Holton, KS and Robert R. Dugan (Sandy) of Lumberton, TX; 11 grandchildren, Jeremy, Christopher, Matthew, Sara, Kyle, Heather, Gavin, Spencer, Grant, Kennedy and Nicholas and 5 great-grandchildren, Alex, Lily, Gage, London and Brextyn.

Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 11, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial with Military Honors will follow at the Holton Cemetery. He will lie in state beginning Wednesday at the funeral home. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time Saturday. Memorials may be given to the Medicine Lodge Band Dept. 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.

Lloyd Francis Bindle, 99, of Falls City, passed away Monday, September 6, 2021, at Falls City Community Medical Center. He was born on March 3, 1922, 10 miles south of Sabetha, KS to the late Frank Bindel and Mildred (Hows) Bindel. 

He attended Powhattan High School, Powhattan, KS graduating in 1941.  He went on to attend Chillicothe Missouri Business College for approximately a year until he entered the U.S. Navy in WWII in 1942 where he was stationed at Midway Island and Pearl Harbor until he was discharged while living in Fallbrook, CA in 1945. Lloyd worked for Missouri Pacific Railroad for 8 years and Great Lakes Gas Pipeline approximately 1 year before he began working for the U.S. Postal Service around 1954 retiring after 30 years in 1984.  On April 30, 1945, he married the love of his life June Elizabeth Wagner at Hiawatha, KS. The couple established their home in Fallbrook, CA, where Lloyd was stationed while serving in the Navy. After his discharge from the Navy, they moved to Falls City until 1952 when they moved to Atchison, KS for a short period of time while Lloyd worked for the railroad, returning to Falls City permanently in 1953. 

He was a very active member of Immanuel United Methodist Church for many years. He was a member of Falls City Lodge #9, A.F. & A.M., Orient Lodge #13, Rulo, Falls City Eastern Star, York Rite Masons and Sesostris Temple of Shriners.  He enjoyed fishing, golfing, gardening, working in the yard and spending time with his family.

Lloyd is survived by his daughters, Carol (Larry) Graham, of Lincoln, and Sondra (Brian) Haarberg, of Frisco, TX; his son, Bruce (Roberta) Bindle, of Falls City; three grandchildren, Brian (Shawna) Bindle (Falls City), Heather Bahr (The Colony, TX) and Nathan Haarberg (University of Nebraska-Lincoln); and two great-grandchildren Bailey Bindle (Brownville, NE) and Brody Bindle (Omaha, NE). As well as his sister, Elsie Monaghan of Hiawatha, KS and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, June in 2015 after nearly 70 years of marriage; his parents, his stepmother, Lillie Bindel; sisters, Dorothy Bindel and Frances Vaughn, and brothers, Russell, Phillip, and Raymond Bindel. 

A private family only funeral (due to Covid) will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home, Falls City, with Pastor Rick Martin of the First Presbyterian Church Falls City officiating with private interment at Steele Cemetery. Military graveside honors by Falls City Ceremonial Honor Guard.

Open visitation to the public will began Thursday afternoon, September 9th for those who wanted to pay their respects.

Wayne Clarence Olberding, 67, passed away Thursday, September 2, 2021. He was born on February 10, 1954 in Axtell to Clarence and Eileen (Dick) Olberding. Wayne married Ruth Ann Ronnebaum on November 24,1979 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.

Wayne graduated from Centralia High School in 1972 then completed studies in Diesel Mechanics at North Central Kansas VoTech in Beloit. He worked as a diesel mechanic in Seneca, St. Mary’s and Topeka. He was a very dedicated employee and hard worker, extending himself to do the best he could in helping others. He was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Rossville where he served on the parish council and later in life a member at Christ the King Catholic Church in Topeka. Wayne grew up farming in Nemaha County and continued throughout his life. In 1982, they purchased a farm near Topeka where he would continue this passion. He also enjoyed working and feeding cattle and loved watching the baby calves run and play. He raised three wonderful children and enjoyed spending time with his family and following K-State sports.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth; children Brian (Christina) Olberding of Kansas City, MO, Lisa (Joe) Metzen of Goddard, Eric (Lindsay) Olberding of North Bend, WA; 8 grandchildren Brandonlee Sanchez and Alessandra Olberding, Olivia, William, Kate, and Ethan Metzen, Eli and Avery Olberding; siblings Diane (Kenneth) Keegan of Baileyville, Janice (Jim) Kramer Baehrens of Goff, Dale Olberding of Centralia, Lynn Olberding of Topeka, and Larry Olberding of Seneca.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Steven and Laurie Ann; and brother-in-law Don Kramer.

Rosary will be prayed at 7 PM at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca on Thursday, September 9, 2021. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 AM Friday, September 10, 2021 at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly. Burial will be at St. Bede’s Cemetery.

Memorials can be given in Wayne’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association and St. Bede’s Catholic Church in care of the family.

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

Lawson Charles Schmelzle, 16, of Seneca, died on Monday, September 6, 2021, as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.

Lawson was welcomed into this world by his loving parents, Norman and Zena Kennedy Schmelzle on May 18, 2005, in San Diego, California.

Lawson grew up in the Seneca community, and was a Junior at Nemaha Central High School, Class of 2023. He was a percussionist in the school band and a member of the high school golf team.

Lawson enjoyed fishing, hunting, and riding around with friends. He spent every summer golfing and playing baseball in Kelly. Lawson was known for doing backflips off anything, and always said “I just want to have fun”. Lawson had a deep appreciation for music, knew all the words to songs of every genre and era, and was a self-taught drummer who played by ear. Always carrying drum sticks, you would find him drumming on everything.

Most importantly, Lawson loved being around family and friends, and cherished the time they spent together. He had a lot of bonus moms to whom he would shout out a “Hi, Mom,” followed by a hug! He was always on the lookout for a good scare. He loved to spend his hard-earned money on Dr. Pepper and cookies. Lawson could talk to anyone, and he will continue to stay with those who knew him through shared laughter and memories.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict.

Lawson is survived by his parents, Norman and Zena Kennedy Schmelzle of Seneca; siblings, Emmery, Grady and Rylee Schmelzle, all of the home; grandparents, Larry and Sharon Schmelzle of Oneida and Charles Kennedy of Holton; many aunts and uncles, and 44 first cousins.

Lawson was preceded in death by his grandmother, Virginia Kennedy on March 27, 2001.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM Friday, September 10, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:00 AM Saturday, September 11th at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. Burial will be at Sts. Peter and Paul’s Cemetery in Seneca.

Memorials will be designated for the percussion section of the Nemaha Central High School Band and Kelly Ball Association.

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

Lawson Charles Schmelzle, 16, of Seneca, died on Monday, September 6, 2021, as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.

Lawson was welcomed into this world by his loving parents, Norman and Zena Kennedy Schmelzle on May 18, 2005, in San Diego, California.

Lawson grew up in the Seneca community, and was a Junior at Nemaha Central High School, Class of 2023. He was a percussionist in the school band and a member of the high school golf team.

Lawson enjoyed fishing, hunting, and riding around with friends. He spent every summer golfing and playing baseball in Kelly. Lawson was known for doing backflips off anything, and always said “I just want to have fun”. Lawson had a deep appreciation for music, knew all the words to songs of every genre and era, and was a self-taught drummer who played by ear. Always carrying drum sticks, you would find him drumming on everything.

Most importantly, Lawson loved being around family and friends, and cherished the time they spent together. He had a lot of bonus moms to whom he would shout out a “Hi, Mom,” followed by a hug! He was always on the lookout for a good scare. He loved to spend his hard-earned money on Dr. Pepper and cookies. Lawson could talk to anyone, and he will continue to stay with those who knew him through shared laughter and memories.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict.

Lawson is survived by his parents, Norman and Zena Kennedy Schmelzle of Seneca; siblings, Emmery, Grady and Rylee Schmelzle, all of the home; grandparents, Larry and Sharon Schmelzle of Oneida and Charles Kennedy of Holton; many aunts and uncles, and 44 first cousins.

Lawson was preceded in death by his grandmother, Virginia Kennedy on March 27, 2001.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM Friday, September 10, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:00 AM Saturday, September 11th at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict. Burial will be at Sts. Peter and Paul’s Cemetery in Seneca.

Memorials will be designated for the percussion section of the Nemaha Central High School Band and Kelly Ball Association.

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

Geraldine Ann “Gerri” Schmelzle, age 95, of Effingham, Kansas, formerly of Seneca and Nortonville, Kansas, passed away Friday, August 27, 2021 at Medicalodge of Atchison.

Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ann’s Church in Effingham, Kansas with Rev. Hughes Sundeme as celebrant. Interment of cremated remains will follow in St. Ann’s Church Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be on Friday, September 10th from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. The family will also receive friends from 10:30 until 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Ann’s Church or Town & Country Senior Center, Effingham, KS, and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home, Atchison, Kansas.

Geraldine was born on September 27, 1925, in Corning, Kansas, the daughter of Frank and Amelia (Heinen) Wilhelm. She attended St. Bede’s Catholic School in Kelly, Kansas, and Head Community School for two years in rural Seneca, Kansas.

She and Carl Schmelzle were united in marriage on February 6, 1945, at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly, Kansas. They were married for nearly sixty years before Carl’s passing on November 17, 2003.

While raising her children, Gerri worked alongside Carl at their auto repair shop as the bookkeeper and parts runner and drove a school bus for Jefferson County North school district. After closing the shop, she worked at Rockwell International for nine years and then was a nurse’s aide at Jefferson County Geriatric Center in Winchester, Kansas, until her retirement.

She was a member of St. Ann’s Church in Effingham and an active member of the church Altar Society; she was a member of American Legion Auxiliary #285 in Effingham. Gerri enjoyed woodcrafts, embroidering and quilt making. She was most proud of being a mother, grandmother and a homemaker.

She is survived by her seven children, including three daughters: Mary Werner, Effingham, KS, Dorothy (Dick) Bockelman, Shawnee, KS, Betty Parhomek, Topeka, KS; four sons, Donald Schmelzle, Nortonville, KS, Jim (Virginia) Schmelzle, Topeka, KS, Tom (Carol) Schmelzle, Independence, MO, Mike Schmelzle, Effingham, KS; three sisters-in-law, Peggy, Arlene and Ann Wilhelm; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and a very special friend, Mary Ann Krier.

Gerri was preceded in death by her husband, Carl; two children, George Schmelzle, Linda Eaton; two grandchildren, David Bockelman, Carl Dean Smith; a great granddaughter, Heather James and two infant great grandchildren, five brothers and one sister.

Terry Douglas Murphy “Witatai”, 79, of the Iowa Reservation at White Cloud, KS, left this earthly life to join his forefathers in eternal life September 4, 2021.

Witatai, his Iowa name, was given to him by his ancestors, was born January 26, 1942, at Escondido, California.  His family lived between the California home and near White Cloud, where Terry attended White Cloud and Reserve, schools, prior to attending high school in California.

Terry spent his working career as an independent contractor, escorting oversize tractor trailer loads, all across the United States.  To enhance his career and address the bigger challenges, he became a certified flagger.  He said that he had traveled the entire United States except Alaska.

He was a member of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska.  Terry was proud of his native heritage and Iowa Reservation was always dear to him.  Because of his travel, he wasn’t able to participate in a lot of their activities or memberships.  But in later years, he was able to participate in the Pow Wows as a Gourd Dancer, and just loved it!!

Terry married Janet Stice of the Falls City, Nebraska area and lived most of their life in Texas and was blest with a daughter Shelly.  Janet and Terry divorced in later years, and he re-connected to friends in the Rulo area and married Karen Simmonds Shea, December 12, 2005.  They had made their home on the Iowa Reservation where she survives.

Also surviving are his daughter Shelly Marsalek of Santa Maria, California, step-children Mike and Rita Shea of Bennet, Nebraska, Cindy and Shad Hemminger of Nebraska, Brenda and Chan Merry of Lincoln, Nebraska, grandchildren Wyatt, Emma, and Asah.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother Stanley Murphy.

A Celebration of Terry’s eternal life is planned for 1 p.m. Wednesday, September 8, 2021, at the Rulo Cemetery, Rulo, Nebraska.

The family will meet with friends from 6 until 8 p.m. Tuesday at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha.

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

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

Thomas W. “Tom” Shupe, 81, of Holton, KS, passed away Friday, September 3, 2021 at Community Health Systems in Onaga, KS. He was born December 14, 1939 in Topeka, KS, the son of Cyrus Joyce and Ruth (Linge) Shupe.

Tom graduated from Topeka High School in 1957. He attended Washburn University. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1957 – 1965 during the Korean Conflict and Vietnam War. Tom lived in the Holton community since 1961, serving 2 terms as Mayor 1968 – 1969 and 1971 – 1972.

 Tom owned and operated the City Hotel from 1961 – 1976, co-owned Adkins & Shupe Insurance and worked for the State of Kansas Insurance Department.

He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, a member of Holton Lions Club and Holton Country Club.

Tom married Joyce Cowan on August 5, 1961 in Topeka, they celebrated over 60 years of marriage.

Survivors include his wife, Joyce of the home; son, David Shupe (Kerrey) of Lee’s Summit, MO; 3 grandchildren, Logan Poole (Zach) of Lee’s Summit, MO, Landon Shupe (Emily) of Charlotte, NC and Bailey Stuart (Braden) of Lee’s Summit, MO and 2 great-grandchildren, Collins Poole and McQuady Stuart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cyrus and Ruth Shupe and an infant daughter, Susan Shupe.

Tom will lie in state beginning Sunday afternoon, September 5, 2021 thru Tuesday, September 7, 2021 until 6:30 p.m. at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Private Family Funeral will be Wednesday, September 8, 2021 with burial to follow at Holton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Beck-Bookman Library c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Wilbur Carl Wagner, 87, McLouth, KS, passed away Monday August 30, 2021, at Saint John’s Hospital, Leavenworth, KS.

Funeral mass will be 11 am Monday September 6, 2021, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Tonganoxie. The family will receive friends for 1 hour prior to the funeral service. Burial will be 2pm Tuesday September 7, 2021 in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, St. Joseph, MO.

Wilbur was born February 7, 1934, in Atchison, KS, the son of Carl and Rose Marie (Enzbrenner) Wagner. He was a 1952 graduate of Winchester Rural High School. A member of the Leavenworth County Lucky 6 4-H Club. He was a member of the Kansas Livestock Association. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard. Wilbur was a Farmer and Cattle Rancher all his life and was hard at work on the farm until just a few days before he passed. He was united in marriage July 21, 1979, to Charlene (Kempa) Wagner. She preceded him in death on January 26, 2017. He was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Parish, Tonganoxie where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Gerald Wagner.

Survivors include; brother and sister in law, Melvin and Elaine Wagner, Winchester, KS; two sisters, Mary Newell, Oskaloosa, KS, Dolores Wood, Atchison, KS.

The family suggests memorial donations to the Sacred Heart Church Building Fund; or a charity of your choice.

Esther L. Henthorne, 92, of Perry, died Tuesday, August 31, 2021 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan. 

She was born December 28, 1928 at Herkimer, KS, the daughter of Adolph “Pat” and Minna Marie Hoffman Minder. Esther was a 1946 graduate of Marysville High School. She worked many years as a switchboard operator and supervisor of forecasting in Customer Service for the Southwestern Bell Company.  She was an active member of the Perry United Methodist Church,  United Methodist Women, Perry Civic Club, the Perry Pride Organization and a Perry Fall Festival planning volunteer. She was an active member of Kansa Prairie Quilter’s club and the Perry UMW Quilters. She was a member of Telephone Pioneers of America and the Perry Squares Square Dance Club. 

 She married Charles William Henthorne on September 27, 1947 at Hastings, NE, he preceded her in death on February 22, 2007.  Survivors include four daughters, Mary (Larry Bettac) Scheetz, Silverton, OR, Cindy (William) Lake, Cheyenne, WY, Brenda (Thomas) Williamson-Mills, Silverton, OR, Stephanie (Scott) Johnson, Manhattan, three sons, Michael (Susan) Henthorne, Philomanth, OR, Robert “Bob” (Mary Ann) Henthorne, Valley Falls, James A. Henthorne, Oskaloosa, 20 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.   She was preceded in death by a daughter, Christine Henthorne ,two sisters, Irene Coufal and Hilda Minder.

Cremation Care is planned. Private Family Services will be at a later date. Memorials suggested to the Esther Henthorne Memorial to be divided between her favorite charities or to organization of choice and sent in care of Barnett Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602, Oskaloosa, KS,   66066. 
www.barnettfamilyfh.com

Raymond William Pettinger, 98, of Burchard, Nebraska was born on October 2, 1922 to Joseph and Anna (Fitz) Pettinger in Pawnee County, Nebraska.  Raymond was the sixth of nine children.  Raymond grew up helping his family on their farm.  He graduated from Burchard High School  in 1941.  Raymond continued working on the farm until he was called to serve his country as an Army MP in WWII from 4/2/1945 to 12/13/1946.  Following the war, Raymond returned to the farm.

He was introduced to Anna Kathleen “Katie” Bruce by a mutual friend and they wed in Red Oak, IA on August 1, 1953.  Raymond and Katie started their married life on a farm near Burchard, Nebraska.  Raymond was then selected to serve as Postmaster of Burchard by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, a position he held for 28 years.

In their early years of marriage, Raymond and Katie welcomed several foster children and their nieces into their home.  They were later blessed (as were their children) to raise a daughter, Denise and a son, Douglas.  Raymond was a father figure to his grand-daughter, Erin, and they enjoyed a special relationship.  

In his younger years, Raymond enjoyed raising a large garden, hunting and stamp/coin collecting.  He was a member of American Legion Post 156, Sacred Heart Catholic Church and was publisher of the BEN (Burchard Eagle News) Alumni newsletter.  During his retirement, Raymond enjoyed restoring antique tractors, shelling and sharing black walnuts, having coffee with his friends and traveling.

Raymond left this earth on August 29, 2021, following a brief illness. He is dearly missed by those who remain including his wife of 68 years, Katie, daughter Denise Pettinger of Beatrice, NE, son, Doug Pettinger and wife Ava of Hillsboro, TX, granddaughter, Erin of Arlington, VA, his sister-in-law, Evelyn Pettinger of Pawnee City, NE, brother-in-law, Bernard Bruce of Loveland, CO, step-grandchildren, Christopher Devlin and wife Alexi of Olympia, WA, Josh Devlin and wife Leticia of Hillsboro, TX and Sean MacMillian of Medford, OR, and  many nieces and nephews and their families. 

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings and other family and friends.

Graveside service 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Burchard, Nebraska. Officiating Father Michael Christensen. Masks are required at the graveside and visitation.   A radio transmitter will be available at the graveside service for those choosing to stay in their vehicles. 

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. on Monday, September 6, 2021 at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.

Memorial masses can be offered at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Burchard, Nebraska. 

Interment will be in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Burchard, Nebraska. 

Memorials may go to the family's choice.

Military Honors provided by the Nebraska Army National Guard Honor Guard, the American Legion Post 289 Table Rock, VFW Post 5289 of Pawnee City, American Legion Post 156 of Burchard.

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

Velma Odessa Church, 93, formerly of Valley Falls and Oskaloosa, died Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at F.W. Huston Sr. Living Center in Winchester.

Velma was born April 29, 1928 in Winchester, the daughter of Roy Frederick and Dessie Stevens Petitt. She was a homemaker and also worked outside the home at Josten’s American Yearbook in Topeka for eight years. She also worked part time for the Kansas Department of Revenue during tax season from 1992 to 2012. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Valley Falls.
Velma married Wayne Alfred Church, Sr. October 11, 1943 at Topeka, he preceded her death May 16, 1980.

She is survived by one son, David (Sharon) Church, Valley Falls, one daughter, Jo Ann (Steve) Adams, Oskaloosa, a son-in-law, Gary Goodin, Muscotah, 13 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Janice Goodin, two sons, Frederick Church, Wayne Church, Jr., a granddaughter, Sandra Ann Church and a great-grandson, Josh Montgomery.

 A graveside service will be at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at Valley Falls Cemetery. Social distancing and face coverings are encouraged.  Mrs. Church will lie in state at the Funeral Home from 12:00 noon to 4:00 PM, Monday, September 6,  2021. Memorials suggested to Calvary Baptist Church in care of Barnett Family Funeral Home, Oskaloosa, KS, 66066. barnettfamilyfh.com

Jean R. (Livingston) Jansson, 98, formerly of Wathena, Kansas passed away Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at her son’s home in Shawnee, Kansas. 

Jean was born on March 24, 1923 in Elwood, Kansas to Herman and Rose (Liechti) Livingston.  She served in the U.S. Navy during WWII as a Petty Officer First Class.   

Jean is a member of the First Baptist Church in Wathena. 

She married John Jansson on April 19, 1946.  He preceded her in death on July 23, 1982.  She was also preceded by her parents, daughter-in-law, Jenny Jansson, siblings, Stan, Neil and Don Livingston, Ruth Weir and Janice Livingston. 

Survivors include her children; Jack Jansson (Mary Jo), Neil Jansson, Pam Larson (Bob) and  

Deb Grandjean (Sam) 

           9 Grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren 

Brother, Paul Livingston 

Numerous nieces and nephews. 

FUNERAL: Saturday, September 4, 2021 – 2:00 P.M. 

              At: First Baptist Church in Wathena 

There is no scheduled family visitation, family will greet friends half hour before service. 

           Burial: Bellemont Cemetery in Wathena 

         Memorials: Avant Ministries, First Baptist Church Music Fund or Donor’s Choice. 

                               www.harmanrohde.com  

Richard William Beal, (Rich), 82 of Effingham, Kansas passed away August 27, 2021 at Medical Lodge in Atchison Kansas under hospice care.

Rich was born in Springfield, Missouri on July 27, 1939 to William C. and Laura Lou (Brown) Beal and graduated from Fredonia High School in Fredonia, Kansas in 1957.

Rich attended Kansas State College of Pittsburg (Pittsburg State University) and earned a B.S.E.D. and a MS.ED in Industrial Arts. He was a member of the Gorilla football team and as a senior was a captain of the National Championship 1961 team while earning honors as a First Team NAIA All-American. He was also a two-time; first team All-Central Intercollegiate Conference selection. In 1993, Rich was inducted into the Pittsburg State University (PSU) Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame. In 2002, he was selected to the 100th Anniversary Pittsburg State University Football Team. This 34-member team was determined by a vote of all living PSU football lettermen.

Rich began his teaching and coaching career in USD 501, teaching at Holladay Junior High, Topeka High, and Topeka West. After 5 years he moved to Fredonia, Kansas where he taught and coached at Fredonia High School for 9 years. In 1970, he coached the track team at Fredonia High School to a 2nd place finish in the state track meet. A state placer himself in the shot put for Fredonia, he developed a talented group of throwers in the late 60’s and early 70’s at Fredonia that included 3 consecutive 1st place finishes in the shot put and discus at the Kansas state track meet. In 1968, Rich started the wrestling program at Fredonia High School.

In 1976, he and his family moved to Effingham, Kansas. Rich taught industrial arts and coached football, wrestling and track at Atchison County Community High School (ACCHS) until he retired in 1997. During his time at ACCHS, Rich took great pride that his students produced high quality wood furniture including cedar chests, gun cabinets, roll-top desks, and grandfather clocks.

Rich remained a wrestling coach until his retirement, including being an assistant coach to Wrestling Hall of Fame coach Larry Tilton and taking over the program after Tilton’s retirement. In 1996, Rich was awarded the Big 7 League Wrestling Coach of the Year and in 1997, he was awarded the 321A Sportsmanship Coach of the Year by the Kansas Wrestling Officials Association.

After retiring in 1997 from 35 years of teaching industrial arts, he pursued his hobbies of wood carving, tying flies and his love of trout fishing at Bennett Springs State Park in Missouri. Many of his carvings won awards at regional carving shows.

In 1962, he married Ruth Anne Leming at the First Methodist Church in North Kansas City Missouri. Rich and Ruth were married 59 ½ years.  She survives of the home. In addition to his wife Ruth, he is survived by a son Jon (Elizabeth) Beal and two daughters, Lori (Mike) Green and Cheryl (Will) Taber and several grandchildren and one great grandchild. Rich is also survived by one sister, Sara (Stephen) Bohrer. He was preceded in death by his parents.

There will be a family celebration of life at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be given to Atchison County Emergency Management or St Croix Hospice of Hiawatha and sent to the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Homes in Atchison. 800 Kansas Avenue Atchison, Kansas. Condolences to the family may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Family would like to thank the staff of Medicalodge and St. Croix Hospice for the excellent end of life care he received.

Marsha Ann Fitzpatrick, loving mother of two & aunt to three, passed away unexpectedly Monday, August 30th,2021

Marsha was Born January 2, 1970, in Atchison, Kansas to Victor & Patricia Mae Fitzpatrick (nee Kelley). The second of twin girls, born three minutes after her sister Vicky. Marsha raised two sons, Spenser & Patrick. After graduating from Atchison High School in 1988, she would relocate to Lawrence with her niece Kamithy. She worked as a contact support member for Maximus Federal in Lawrence. She loved taking long walks with pup Sadie, always making sure to get her steps in. Her boys were her world, as were her nieces & nephew. She enjoyed going on vacations, especially to the Disney theme parks. Marsha enjoyed reading in her downtime & was well known for her baking skills.

Marsha is survived by; sons Patrick Sniff & Spenser Fitzpatrick (Robben Stanley), Mother Patricia Fitzpatrick; Sister Vicky Davis (Thomas Stalder); Nieces Kamithy Brown and Jennifer Stalder; Nephew Michael Davis (Rachel McCabe). She is preceded in death by her father Victor Fitzpatrick and stepfather Jack Ross.

Services will be held at 3 pm Sunday, September 5, 2021, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home in Atchison, Kansas with Paul Kelley Officiating. Visitation will be one hour before the service from 2:00-3:00PM at the funeral home. Services will be open casket, followed by Cremation after the service. In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to help cover funeral cost. Condolences may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com