Arlene Helen Lafond-Melcher, age 88, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2021 at Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca, KS.

Arlene was born in Cliffton, Kansas on July 12, 1933, a daughter of the late Albert Charles and Jane Helen (Nault) LaFond. Arlene attended Corning Grade School and High School. Arlene was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Seneca, KS.

Arlene married Elmer Melcher on October 15, 1958 at Saint Gregory’s Catholic Church in Marysville, KS. They lived on their farm south east of St. Benedict for nearly 33 years, before moving in 1985 to Seneca.

Throughout her life Arlene gave the gift of nursing as she followed along with her sisters Pat and twin sister Charlene working in area hospitals and nursing homes. In 1958 she married Elmer Melcher and transitioned into a homemaker. Arlene provided daycare services for her area neighbors and family. She cherished getting to raise her own five children, her children’s children, and then some. She was always a large part of each of the lives that she helped bring into this world. She was selfless, and always had a smile on her face no matter the smallest of gestures. She and Elmer built a solid foundation for their family, and valued being present in each and every little thing. Arlene took much pleasure in simplicity, and always made the simple things in life seem so special.

Arlene is preceded death by her parents Jane Helen (Nault) and Albert Charles LaFond, husband Elmer Melcher, son Glenn Melcher, and sister Mary Catherine Kay’ Dechant.

Arlene is survived by her four children Gary (Geriann) Melcher of Seneca, Ks, Donna (Boyd) Altenhofen of Seneca, KS, Karen (John) Smith of Marysville, KS, Randy Melcher of St. Joseph, MO. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren – Kim (Curt) Schultejans of Seneca, KS, Kirt (April) Henry of Seneca, KS, Michael (Debra) Altenhofen of Leawood, KS, Michelle (Ross) Harrington of Wichita, KS, Kent (Hana) Henry of Columbus, IN, Renae (Russ) Fitzgerald of Seneca, KS, Melissa (Andrew) Hastings of Colorado Springs, CO, Kyle (Chelsea) Henry of Olathe, KS, Michaela (Alex) Hermesch of Salina, KS, and Karla (Jake) Hermesch of Seneca, KS. She is also survived by 14 great-grandchildren – Callie, Eli Schultijans of Seneca, KS, Landon, Grace & Allison Fitzgerald of Seneca, KS, Benjamin, Eva, Wesley Altenhofen of Leawood, KS, Jackson & Cannon Harrington of Wichita, KS, Vincent Hermesch of Salina, KS, Kadance & Aidan Henry, Seneca, KS, Alma Henry of Olathe, KS. She is also survived by her siblings Patria Ehrsam, of Seneca, Kansas, Charlene Creiver, of Seneca, Kansas, and Larry LaFond and his wife Nancy, of Haven, Kansas.

Arlene will be in state all day Thursday, December 2, 2021 at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. A rosary will be prayed at on Friday, December 3, 2021 at 10:30 AM, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 A.M. following the rosary, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Burial will be at the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery in Seneca, KS.

Memorials are for Nemaha Valley Community Hospital, sent in care of the family.

Imogene H. Kentzler, 92, Atchison, Kansas died Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at Vintage Park of Atchison.

Mass of Christian burial will be Friday, December 3, 2021 at 2:00 P.M. at St. Benedict Catholic Church with Rev. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A parish rosary will be recited at 1:00 P.M. at St. Benedict Church with visitation following until the time of Mass. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Parish and may be left in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom funeral care has been entrusted.

Imogene was born June 8, 1929 the daughter of Lawrence and Florentine Zelfer Weber at her parents’ home in the St. Patrick’s Community. She attended St. Patrick’s Elementary School and graduated from Atchison County Community High School in Effingham, Kansas.

She and Charles H. Kentzler were united in marriage on June 1, 1954 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Mr. Kentzler preceded her in death on February 7, 2004.

Imogene was formerly employed at the Snowden Mize Drug Company prior to her marriage. She then became a housewife and homemaker for the remainder of her life.

She was a member of St. Benedict Parish and the Altar Society of the church. She enjoyed spending time with her family especially her grandchildren.

Imogene is survived by her four sons, David (Beverly) Kentzler; Dan (Cheryl) Kentzler; and Mike (Stacey) Kentzler all of Atchison, KS; and Mark (Mandy) Kentzler of Sedgwick, KS; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

She was preceded in a brother, Larry Weber and three sisters, Geraldine Gering, Rita Weishaar and Marlene Lutz.

John “Butch” William Alspach, 79, of Sabetha, Kansas died on Saturday, November, 27, 2021 at the Sabetha Community Hospital.

Butch was born on October 15, 1942 in Washington, D.C the only child of John Charles and Elva (Hewitt) Alspach.   He attended Suitland High School in Forestville, Maryland a suburb of Washington D.C. and graduated in the class of 1960.  

He entered the United States Air Force and served three tours of duty in Vietnam.  After serving his country for 26 years, he retired from the Air Force.    

He was united in marriage to Joyce Shump in 2003 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.  
He loved his family, his dogs, Norman and Dolly, and his country.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce of the home in Sabetha; two children, Roger Housholder and his wife, Anna, of Topeka, Kansas, Jackie Lyda and her husband, Richard, of Salina, Kansas; three step-children, Wayne Studer of Sabetha, Dennis Studer and his wife, Tammy, of Sabetha, Jude Michael and her husband, Rick, of Topeka, Kansas; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and one cousin, George (Pat) Vaughn of Washington, D.C.

Services will be at a later date and time.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Brown County Humane Society sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas   66534.  Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com

R. Daniel Lykins, 75, Topeka, Kansas passed away on Thursday, November 25, 2021.

Dan was born January 22, 1946, in Atchison, Kansas, the son of Robert and Mary McNerney Lykins. He graduated from Maur Hill High School in 1964, KState in 1968 and Washburn University Law School in 1972. He married Judy Becher on May 20, 1972, in Topeka. Dan was a personal injury attorney and senior partner at Bryan Lykins Hejtmanek Law Firm. As a Topeka attorney, he tried over 90 civil and criminal jury trials in Federal and State courts in Kansas. Dan received numerous awards from Washburn Law School for work he did for the law school. Dan also received numerous awards and honors over the years from the Kansas Trial Lawyers Association, the Kansas Bar Association, the Topeka Bar Association, the Topeka Inn’s of Court and the American Association for Justice. The majority of his practice centers around helping people involved in serious personal injury claims, motor vehicle claims, product liability claims and wrongful death claims.

According to WIBW’s Chris Fisher, “In 2002, Lykins ran to represent Kansas’ Second Congressional District as a Democrat, but fell short to Republican Jim Ryun. He also mounted an unsuccessful bid to become Kansas Attorney General. Lykins served as a member of the Kansas Board of Regents, and used his personal success as a lawyer to contribute to several non-profit and charitable causes across Northeast Kansas. Lykins was an active supporter of the Topeka Rescue Mission, Maur Hill/Mount St. Scholastica, Sisters of St. Benedict of Ferdinand Children’s Emergency Fund, Skyline Schools Foundation, Washburn Law School, KSU Foundation, TARC, and partnered with WIBW’s Chris Fisher in his annual “Just a Buck” campaign for Big Brothers Big Sisters.”

Dan is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Jeremy Lykins, Danya Wirtz (Stephen) and Brendan Lykins; grandchildren, Lindsey Gatz (Jake), Chase Lykins, Jake and Sierra Wirtz; great-grandchildren, Sutton and Ariya Gatz; and siblings, Barb Lykins (Christie), Tom Lykins (Jenny) and Tim Lykins (Linda). He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Lykins, parents, siblings, Mary Pat McKelvy, Jim Lykins and Jane Lykins.

Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, December 2nd, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Rosary and memorial service will be 11 a.m. Friday, December 3rd, at the funeral home. Inurnment will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

A memorial for Dan Lykins has been established at the Kansas State University Foundation. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the KSU Foundation (indicate fund M47379 on the memo line), 1800 Kimball Ave., Ste 200, Manhattan KS 66502, or to make a gift online go to www.ksufoundation.org/giv/memorials. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

Eugene Carl Hartman, 84, of Sabetha, Kansas, died on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at the Sabetha Community Hospital.

Gene was born on May 2, 1937 in Sabetha, Kansas the only child born to Carl and Louise Hartman.  They lived on a farm west of Bern, Kansas then moved to Sabetha when Gene was in the 2nd grade.  Gene graduated from Sabetha High School in the class of 1955.  

After graduation, he attended Clarks Business School in Topeka, Kansas.  Then, he returned to Sabetha and worked at Wenger Manufacturing until he was drafted into the United States Air Force in 1959.  He attended boot camp at Lackland Air Force base in San Antonio, Texas.  Then, he was stationed at Fort McClellan Air Force Base in Sacramento, California.  He served 15 months in Pakistan where he was a food inspector.

After being honorably discharged from the Air Force, he returned to Sabetha and worked as a parts man for McFall Motors.  Then, he became a parts man for International Harvester.  He was united in marriage to Doris June Shroyer on December 28, 1963 and to this union one son was born, Louis Hartman.  He was also a father to Kathy, Renee, Billy, and Mike.  

Gene enjoyed music and was a member of the band, “Jim and the Countrymen” for many years playing lead guitar.  Gene had many interests including racing of any kind, model planes, and he enjoyed working on cars.  He was a member of the Sabetha Twisters Car Club and the Sabetha V.F.W. Post #7285.   

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Doris.

He is survived by his children, Kathy Davis of Sabetha, Renee (Gary) Koch of Fairview, Kansas, Billy Shroyer of Sabetha, Mike (Brenda) Shroyer of Morrill, Kansas, and Louis Hartman of Whiting, Kansas; 11 grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Joyce Alspach of Sabetha.  

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, December 11, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha, Kansas with military honors conducted by the Sabetha V.F.W. Post #7285.  Memorial contributions may be made to Sabetha Twisters Car Club sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas   66534.  Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com

Henry “Hank” de Koning, 100, of Burchard,Ne. passed  away in his home on November. 28,2021. He was born on October 23, 1921 to Dick and Stella(Loverink) de Koning  near Gillette,Wyoming. When Hank was 15 months old his family moved to a farm south of Pawnee City,  Ne.

    Hank attended Pleasant Hill Country  School through the 8th grade.

    On June 2, 1946 Hank married Ellen Sejkora at the Presbyterian Church in Summerfield, Ks. They were blessed to celebrate 69 years of marriage. They raised their family and farmed south of Burchard until 1992 when they moved into Burchard to retire.

    Hank and Ellen attended the Faith Baptist Church in Pawnee City. 

    Hank had many interests - auctions, bee keeping, gardening, reading, and wood working. He made hundreds of little wooden crosses and gave them to nurses, doctors, clerks, friends, relatives and kids. He always carried a few in his pocket.

    He was very proud of his Dutch heritage. He loved the courage,honesty,wisdom and brevity of Abraham Lincoln and enjoyed country music.  He loved his family and enjoyed watching his grandkids and great grandkids grow and learn. Young children were drawn to him and he prayed every day “for all the little children”.

    Hank was preceded in death by his wife Ellen, parents Dick and Stella de Koning, his sisters - Dorothy Juhl (Bill), Emma Robertson (Floyd), Ann Buman(Andy) and Minnie Hickenbottom (Phil), brothers - Neal (Marge),John (Jennie) and Rich, daughter Coleen Tanner and grandson Aaron Tanner. 

    Hank is survived by sister-in-law Joni de Koning, Port Clinton, Ohio, children Gary, Anchorage, Ak. Allen (Janice) Dawson, Ne. Nancy (Richard) Burgert, Burchard,Ne,Kathy (Don) Fritch, Fairbury, Ne. Terry(Linda) Burchard Ne. Grandchildren Casey (Brian) Justus, Jesse(Jen)Tanner, Courtney (Josh) Wall, Jessie (Bob) Everett,  Porter de Koning, Britt de Koning, Eve(Ryan) Seeba, Megan (Matt) Holes, Garrett de Koning, Jared Fritch, Bailey (Adam) Brill, Ethan de Koning and fiancé Ashleigh Kapke. Great grandchildren Cooper, Quincy, Simon Justus, Taylee,Cruz Tanner, Madilyn, Brody Wall, Tucker, Oliver, Miles Everett, Alivia, Aiden Seeba, Luka Brill, Logan Holes, and

Services 10:00 a.m., Friday, December 3, 2021at the Faith Baptist Church, Pawnee City, Nebraska.  Officiating Pastor Chris Rohrbaugh and Pastor Connor Barr. Visitation on Thursday, December 2, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Interment at the Burchard Cemetery, Burchard, Nebraska. Service will be lived-streamed on Wherry Mortuary/Wherry Monument Facebook page. Memorials to family choice. 

Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com. Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary, Pawnee City, Ne

Julie A. (Kurzdorfer) Kocour, age 81, of Atchison, Kansas, passed away Saturday, November 27, 2021.

Mass of Christian burial will be Thursday, December 2, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Benedict Church with Rev. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A parish rosary will be on Thursday, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the church with visitation to follow until time of the mass. Memorial contributions are suggested to Benedictine College Women’s Athletic Department, St. Benedict Parish or Mount St. Scholastica and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom funeral care has been entrusted. Memories of Julie and condolences to the family may be left online at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Julie was born on July 26, 1940 in St. Louis, MO, the daughter of Arthur and Helen (Leatherman) Kurzdorfer and graduated from Nerinx Hall High School in St. Louis in 1958 and from Mount St. Scholastica College in 1962. She married Robert G. “Bob” Kocour on June 27, 1964. Julie remained at Mount St. Scholastica following graduation as a faculty member of the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Department. She served in that capacity for 38 years and upon retirement, given the status of Professor Emeritus. During her tenure she served as a teacher, coach, intramural director, member of the college Fine Arts Committee, club sponsor and Athletic Director. Julie taught and mentored thousands in her tenure. While sometimes “tough” she always cared for ALL and only wanted the best for every single student. She was appreciated and admired by many and the feeling was mutual with all her students. Thank you to all for your compassion and friendship.

In 2001, Julie was recognized as a “Pioneer” in Women’s intercollegiate sports, at which time she was inducted to the Benedictine “Raven Hall of Fame” for such accomplishments as, instructor, gymnastics coach, Women’s Athletic Director, Board of Directors for Kansas Women’s intercollegiate Athletic Organization, State Commissioner for Kansas Women’s intercollegiate Athletics, Director of Intramurals, moderator for cheerleader’s and dance club and as her last joy, Director of Athletics, Benedictine College from 1997-2000.

Julie served as a volunteer driver for American Cancer Society’s “Road to Recovery Program” for over twenty years. She taught various community classes for the Atchison Recreation Commission. She was on the Board of Directors for Atchison Recreation Commission and Mount St. Scholastica Academy, was a Co-Chairwoman of the Mount St. Scholastica Alumni Association- establishing the Atchison Bridge Roundelay, a social club that existed for 35 years for the benefit of the schools and was a parishioner of St. Benedict Parish where she served on the Parish Council and on the Education Committee, Social Committee and Athletic committee; she aided in establishing the schools first Athletic Handbook.

In Julie’s own words, she enjoyed PEOPLE! Opening her house and heart to family and friends, the spirit of fun, giving time to others, working in the yard, playing golf, card games, sports…… and above all else rejoicing in family! Be Kind, Love one another!

Julie was preceded in death by her husband and love, Robert “Bob” Kocour on July 16, 2012; her parents; a brother, Arthur Kurzdorfer, Jr.; sisters-in-law, Mary Jo (George) Park, Helen Jeanne (Hank) Maggard; brother-in-law, Bud (Barbara) Kocour.

She is survived by her two sons, Robert and Michael (Julie) Kocour, both of Atchison, KS; and grandchildren, Broc (Selena), Trevor (Kimmie), Brad, Alec, Tobin, Betsy, Colten and Tyler. Also survived by sisters-in-law, Gabrielle Kocour, OSB and Sue Kurzdorfer and numerous nieces and nephews.
 

James E. Dame, 66, Highland, Kansas died Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at his residence.

A visitation with the family will be Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home from 6:00 P.M. until 7:30 P.M.  Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Parish and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Jim was born January 26, 1955 in Atchison, Kansas the son of Raymond E. and Ona L. Gilliland Dame.  He attended schools in Atchison, Kansas graduating from Atchison High School in 1973.

Jim was involved with construction his entire life and in 2017 founded the Northeast Kansas Builders, LLC as owner and operator until his death.

He and Carla S. Lutz were united in marriage on October 20, 2012 in Atchison.

Jim was a member of the Catholic faith.

Jim served in the United States Marine Corps from 1973 until his honorable discharge in 1979.

Survivors include his wife, Carla of the couples home in Highland, KS; children, Casi Adamson (Nick); Ryan Dame; Nathan Dame (Ashley); Nick Dame, stepchildren, J.C. Felts (Allysa); Rebecca Felts Ernzen (Adrian); grandchildren, Mitchell Adamson; Ella Adamson; step grandchildren, Peytan Felts; Jaycee Felts; Mia Ernzen; and Alex Ernzen, one sister, Sherry Dame Baker (Stuart); two brothers, Dennis Ray Dame (Gayle); and Daryl Dame (Cathleen).

James E. Dame, 66, Highland, Kansas died Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at his residence.

A visitation with the family will be Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home from 6:00 P.M. until 7:30 P.M.  Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Parish and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Jim was born January 26, 1955 in Atchison, Kansas the son of Raymond E. and Ona L. Gilliland Dame.  He attended schools in Atchison, Kansas graduating from Atchison High School in 1973.

Jim was involved with construction his entire life and in 2017 founded the Northeast Kansas Builders, LLC as owner and operator until his death.

He and Carla S. Lutz were united in marriage on October 20, 2012 in Atchison.

Jim was a member of the Catholic faith.

Jim served in the United States Marine Corps from 1973 until his honorable discharge in 1979.

Survivors include his wife, Carla of the couples home in Highland, KS; children, Casi Adamson (Nick); Ryan Dame; Nathan Dame (Ashley); Nick Dame, stepchildren, J.C. Felts (Allysa); Rebecca Felts Ernzen (Adrian); grandchildren, Mitchell Adamson; Ella Adamson; step grandchildren, Peytan Felts; Jaycee Felts; Mia Ernzen; and Alex Ernzen, one sister, Sherry Dame Baker (Stuart); two brothers, Dennis Ray Dame (Gayle); and Daryl Dame (Cathleen).

Darrel Wayne Coffman, age 46, of Meriden, Kansas, died unexpectedly on Sunday, November 28, 2021 at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka, Kansas.

Graveside services will be Friday, December 3, 2021 at Horton Cemetery at 11:30 a.m. Visitation with the family will be on Friday, from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home in Atchison, KS. A procession will leave the funeral home at 11:00 to the cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Darrel’s family and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Darrel was born January 16, 1975, in Hiawatha, Kansas, the son of Thomas and Katherine (Gilbert) Coffman. He graduated from Horton High School and attended Emporia State College.

He has always been employed in the painting industry. He was previously a store manager and account manager and was currently working as a job site manager for Graystone Painting.

He enjoyed playing guitar and played in various bands. He enjoyed yardwork and keeping a nice lawn, visiting Colorado and spending time with his babies and family. He was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan.

Darrel is survived by his wife of eight years, Jamie Stahoski, and their four children, Aubree, Avery, Ava and Thomas James “T.J.”; his parents, Tom and Katherine Coffman; a sister, Tami (Lenny) Zvonik and three nieces, Alli, Reese and Mattea.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

Vivian Mae Hamilton, 81 of Huron, KS, passed away Sunday, November 28, 2021, at Amberwell Hiawatha, Hiawatha, KS.

Funeral service will be 2:00 PM, Thursday, December 2, 2021, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS, with Rev. Marty Reed officiating. Burial will follow at the Miller Cemetery, Everest, KS. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and may be left in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Vivian was born December 8, 1939, in Atchison, KS, the daughter of Andrew and Christina (Robbins) Evans. She was a nurse for many years having worked at the Atchison Hospital and various nursing homes in the area retiring in 2006. Vivian was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church and she enjoyed sewing, embroidery, cooking and building doll houses and furniture. Vivian’s main purpose in life was to take care of others and to make sure you had what you needed and were comfortable.

Vivian married Leland Hamilton on March 11, 1961, he preceded her in death on May 21, 1977. Survivors include their children, Steve and Michelle Hamilton, Holton, KS, Sherry and Tim Gray, Atchison, KS, Terry and Beth Hamilton, Effingham, KS, three sisters, Dorothy SFerlazza, Rose Nollen, Turner, OR, Donna Broyles, Albany, OR, ten grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.

She was also preceded by her parents, four brothers, Andrew “Jack”, Dennis, Oscar and Kenneth “Bud” Evans and a sister Anna Lee Kirkham.

Lyle Irvin Droge, 99 years, six months, of Pawnee City, was born on the family farm southwest of DuBois, NE, on May 13, 1922 to Herbert and Nell (Bock) Droge, and passed away at Pawnee County Memorial Hospital on November 22, 2021.

Memorial service 10:00 a.m., Saturday, December 4, 2021 at the United Presbyterian Church/Christian Church, Pawnee City, Nebraska with Rev. Diane Morgan officiating. Visitation on Friday, December 3, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 5-7 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City. Inurnment at the Pawnee City Cemetery, Pawnee City with Military Honors.  The service will be live-streamed on the Wherry Mortuary/Wherry Monument Facebook page and than a link will be posted to the bottom of his webpage.  Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com. 

Survivors include his wife, Wilma; daughter, Doreen, of Hickman; sons, Bruce (Karin) of Pawnee City and Dale (Ginny Freitag) of Madison, SD; grandchildren, Leah Droge (Chad Petska), Lincoln, Jed (Sarah) Droge, Tecumseh, Jarrell (Ali) Freitag, Sioux Falls, SD, Colin Droge, Pawnee City, Simone Droge, Lincoln; great grandchildren, Everest and Theodore Droge, Tecumseh, Caprianha Freitag, Sioux Falls, SD; sister, Lola Jean (Howard) House, Liberty, MO; sister-in-law, Jane Preston, Springfield, MO; seven nephews, 11 nieces, (16 spouses); Ardell Chauza and Judy Mueller who helped Lyle and Wilma stay at home for many years; and a host of relatives and friends, old and new. 

Memorials to Pawnee County Memorial Hospital Foundation or United Presbyterian Church, Pawnee City. 

Wherry Mortuary , Pawnee City is entrusted with arrangements.  

Roger Fritz, 64, of White Cloud, KS, passed away November 26, 2021 at Hiawatha, KS. He was born May 16, 1957 to Elmer and Thelma (Bahr) Fritz. 

He married Sharyl Tilton on April 17, 1976 at Verdon, NE.

Roger was raised at Verdon and graduated from Dawson Verdon High School in 1975. Following graduation he worked for Frontier Trailer Factory at Falls City and also farmed. He was a hard working man who loved to work outside. He was an over the road truck driver for 30 years and was currently working for Harm’s Farms of Beatrice, NE at the time of his death.

He was a loving husband, father and grandpa. He loved his grandkids and were the apple of his eye. He is survived by his wife Sharyl of White Cloud, daughter, Faith Anderson and her husband Karl of Florida, brother, Merle and his wife Anita of Colorado, Gary and his wife Donna of Washington, sister, Wylene Picton of Falls City, sister-in-law, Julie Fritz of Dawson, NE, grandchildren, Daphne, Linnea, Simon, Xavier, Violet and Lucia, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Rick.

His funeral will be held on Friday, December 3, 2021 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home. Interment will be in Verdon Cemetery.

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

Viewing will begin on Wednesday afternoon.

Lela Katherine Campfield, 90, of Centralia, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at the Eastridge Nursing Facility, where she resided.

Lela was born on July 13, 1931 in Corning, Kansas the daughter of Harry and Mildred (Mohringer) Fowler. She was married to Harold “Dick” Eugene Campfield on February 18, 1951. They made their home in the Centralia area. They were blessed with three children, Forrest, Morris, and Mark.

Lela graduated from Centralia High School in 1949. She was remembered fondly by many during the time she owned and operated the D & L Drive-In in Centralia. Lela poured love into everything she made and took great pride in the fact that she made the best doughnuts around. Lela also worked part time as the Postmaster Relief in the Centralia Post Office for 20 years before retirement.

Lela was driven by love of the Centralia Community and enjoyed her involvement in the Centralia Methodist Church, the Centralia Cemetery Board, the Centralia Boosters, the Eastern Star, and numerous organizations. She was always willing to lend a hand for the good of the community. She and Dick enjoyed lifelong friends and were known for their love of laughter.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dick; son, Forrest Campfield; and two brothers, Robert Fowler and Ralph Fowler.

Lela is survived by her two sons, Morris and his wife, Connie, of Lincoln, Nebraska and Mark and his wife, Ruth, of Manhattan, Kansas; five grandchildren, Todd Campfield of Lincoln, Nebraska, April Campfield of Austin, Texas, Kelsey (Dan) Halverson of Lincoln, Nebraska, Garrett (Lisa) Campfield of Rockwall, Texas, and Grant (Markie) Campfield of Carrollton, Texas; and four great-grandchildren, Claire Halverson, Jack Halverson, Cora Campfield, and Theodore Campfield. She will also be remembered by her beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Centralia Community Church-West. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to service time at the church. The interment will be made in the Centralia Cemetery. Lela will lie in state on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Popkess Memorial Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to the Centralia Community Church or Eastridge Nursing Facility sent in care of the Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle, Seneca, Kansas 66538. Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com

Harold “Lloyd” Reichart, 93, of Valley Falls, KS, passed away Saturday, November 27, 2021 in Topeka. He was born November 11, 1928 in Arrington, KS, the son of Charles and Mary (Frommer) Reichart.

Lloyd graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1946, and continued with some college. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Lloyd operated his family farm North of Valley Falls.

He was a member of the Coal Creek Methodist Church, and a member of Grahem-Herbers V.F.W. Post 3084.

Lloyd married Brenda Kay Delfelder on April 27, 1958 at the Presbyterian Church in Effingham, KS. They celebrated over 63 years of marriage.

Survivors include his wife, Brenda, of the home; 3 daughters, Terri Sheeley (Dan) of Effingham, KS, Chris Maddox of Houston, MO, and Janet Postier (Todd) of Derby, KS; a son, Gale Reichart (Shana) of Valley Falls, KS; 2 sisters, Velda Smith of North Carolina, and Yvonne Whitener (Jim) of Texas; a sister-in-law, Betty Reichart of Nebraska; a daughter-in-law, Jackie Reichart of Holton; 21 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary; 2 sisters, Dorothy Briley and Virginia Schultz; 2 brothers, Don and Charles Reichart; a son, Steven Reichart; a daughter, Norma Jean Reichart; a grandson, and a great-granddaughter.

Graveside services will be held 1:30 P.M. Thursday, December 2, 2021 at Coal Creek Cemetery in rural Valley Falls, KS. In lieu of a formal visitation, Lloyd will lie in state at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls beginning Tuesday afternoon until 6:00 P.M. and Wednesday from 10:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M. Memorial contributions may be made to the Harold “Lloyd” Reichart Memorial Fund to be designated at a later date c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. To leave a special message for the family please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Glenda ( Marlatt)  Frost, of Nortonville, died Saturday, November 27 at the age of 74.

Glenda was born August 15, 1947, to parents, Raphael Marlatt and Barbara Stillman Marlatt Clinkenbeard in Leavenworth, KS.

She graduated from Nortonville High School in 1965. She married Kenneth E. Frost on June 24, 1966, at the Nortonville Christian Church.

Glenda graduated from Cosmetology School. Her and husband Kenny were self employed for 27 years, owning Atchison Office Machines and Capital City Office Machines in Topeka, KS.

She was a member of the Nortonville Christian Church Ladies Aid and Rebecca Lodge #157 until it dissolved.

Glenda was preceded in death by her father Raphael Marlatt; mother Barbara Clinkenbeard, and stepfather Willard Clinkenbeard. Along with brothers, Terry Marlatt (Janie), Jerry Marlatt (Joan) and sister, Wanda Chmidling (Catch).

Survivors include her husband, Kenneth Frost of the home; a son, Troy Frost (Jill) of Valley Falls, KS; a daughter, Tiffany Dunham (Rob) of Osage City, KS; a brother, Ed Clinkenbeard (Patty) of Olathe, KS; a sister, Donna Bannister (Charlie) of Eudora, KS; 9 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 1, 2021, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at the Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls, KS. Funeral Service will be 2:00 p.m.  Thursday, December 2, 2021, at the Pleasant Grove Christian Church in Nortonville, KS. Burial will follow at the Nortonville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorial be given to Mercer Funeral Home c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. To leave a special message for the family please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

James H. “Jim” Snyder, 79, of Effingham, KS died on Friday, November 26th, 2021, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Casual attire is requested for attending the graveside services and burial at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, November 30th, 2021, at the Evergreen Cemetery in Effingham KS with Rev. Seth Montgomery officiating.  After attending the graveside service, the family invites family and friends to join them for a meal at 8600 Haskell Rd (shed south of Kelli and Justin Bottorff’s).  Friends may call to view Jim and sign the register on Monday, November 29th, from 10:00 am until 7:30 pm at the Becker Chapel, 402 3rd St, Effingham, KS.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the March of Dimes or the American Cancer Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Jim was born on January 8, 1942, in Horton, KS the son of Walter Scott and Clara Mae (Hawk) Snyder.  He attended the Rose Valley Grade School and Muscotah Grade School before graduating from the Atchison County Community High School in 1959.  He served in the Army National Guard.  Jim worked as a dairy farmer in the Effingham Community for most of his life.  He was a past board member of the USD # 377 School Board, a member of the DHIA Board for Atchison County and a member of the Atchison County Dairy Board.  Jim enjoyed participating in tractor pulls and talking to and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  He was a wonderful, Husband, Dad, and Grandpa to his family and will be missed greatly.

Jim was married to Patricia A. “Pat” Kloepper on September 30, 1961, at the St. John’s Lutheran Church, Lancaster, KS.  She survives of the home. Additional survivors include his children; Kathy (Jim) Hawk, Joe (Rhonda) Snyder, James H. (Jennifer) Snyder, Jr., and Debbie (Mike) Warriner, all of Effingham, KS a brother Gerald (Retta) Snyder, Everest, KS, twelve grandchildren and nineteen great grandchildren.  His parents, and stepfather, Elmer Page preceded him in death.

Sister Elena (Antonia) Hernandez, OSB, 101, a Benedictine sister of Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, Kan., died Tuesday, November 23, 2021, at the monastery. The vigil service will be Tuesday, November 30, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. in the monastery chapel, and the Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. in St. Scholastica’s Chapel. The public may attend the funeral Mass if fully vaccinated and masked.

Sister Elena was born in the village of San Gabriel, Mexico, on Sept. 5, 1920. When her mother died, she got a job in a clothing factory in a nearby city to help the family. Having always loved her faith and desired religious life, at age 30 she accompanied some Benedictine sisters to Alabama and then went to Oklahoma in 1956. She was determined to receive an education, which culminated in a B.S. in secondary education. In 1977, she became a pastoral associate for the Hispanic community at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Hollis, Okla., serving there until 1993. After the move of her Red Plains Monastery community from Peidmont, Okla., to Atchison in 2009, she continued to sew, care for her beloved parakeets, and make beautiful crafts for the monastery gift shop.

Sister Elena was preceded in death by her parents, Adelaida and Juan Hernandez, her brothers Juan, Pedro, and Alfonso, and sister Carmen. She is survived by nieces and nephews and her monastic family. Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home (www.beckerdyer.com) is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be sent to Mount St. Scholastica or made online at the Mount’s web site (www.mountosb.org)

John F. Frayer, 72, formerly of Powhattan, passed away on November 21, 2021 at Highland Healthcare and Rehab Center.

John was born to Ernest and Janet Lawrence Frayer on January 11, 1949. He lived in highland most of hischildhood. Later, he became a farm hand and handyman. In his younger years, he worked for a large dairy operation at Norton, KS. John enjoyed camping, fishing, spending time with family and friends.  He helped others and had a great sense of humor.                                                                                                                                               
 He was married to Debbie R. Frayer for 23 years before her death in December of 2019. He was also preceded in death by his daughters:  Nema Brown and Breanna Frayer, and  his brother Richard Frayer.

He is survived by son Nathan Davis and wife Jonna Davis, Daughter Melissa Coots and husband Eric Coots, Grandsons Jacob Sullivan, Chance Sullivan, Logan Brown, Wesley Coots, and Patrick Coots, granddaughters:   Emma Middleton and husband Billy Middleton, Alanna Young, and Kenna Davis; with several great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his brothers:  Alvin Frayer of St. Joseph, MO, Robert Frayer of Chanute, KS, a sister Sarah Lavret of Hiawatha, KS, several nieces and nephews.

Cremation is planned with services and inurnment pending.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Joe B. Kidd, 90 of Everest, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, November 21, 2021 at his home surrounded by his long-time fur baby, Sammie and his family by his side.

Joe was a kind soul who made an unforgettable impression on everyone. He was quiet, yet had a subtle, surprising wit. Joe was born on March 19, 1931 in Valliant, Oklahoma the son of Lloyd and Alta Mae Story Kidd. He was raised in Broken Bow, Oklahoma until he graduated from high school in 1950. He attended Draughons Business School in Dallas, Texas and later proudly served in the U.S. Navy. He received an honorable discharge in 1952. Joe worked as a purchasing agent for Boeing in Wichita and later for Tyson Food in Broken Bow, Oklahoma until he retired, he had many other jobs in between. Joe’s “little girl puppy”, Samantha was his loyal sidekick. He was rarely seen without her.

Joe is survived by his son, Joe “Bob” (Sue) Kidd Jr. of Everest, Kansas; a daughter, Sarita (Craig) Cooper of Celina, Texas; five grandchildren, Haley (Rob) Williams of Anna, Texas, John Paul Kidd of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Crystal (Marco) Ugge of Frisco, Texas, Kate (Clay) Spanger of Shawnee, Kansas and Alex (Nikki) McAfee of Sabetha, Kansas; fourteen great grandchildren, Everett, Cash, Isabella, Brayden, Tegan, Gabriel, Liliana, Roman, Jetta, Clara, MacKenzie, Alexis, Skylar and Christian. Joe is also survived by many nieces and nephew, who thought dearly of him. They are Nancy, Paul, Mark, Kathy, Shelby, Joey, Charla, Maria, Kelly, Russell and many great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and step father, Burt Dodd, sisters, Kathryn Kidd, Denise Beach, great nephew, Jason Willingham and nephew, Shelby Gene Beach.

Joe was the patriarch of his family for many years and will forever be in our hearts.

A memorial service is planned in Everest, Kansas and Broken Bow, Oklahoma where he will be laid to rest, at a later date. A special message may be sent to the family at dishon-maple-chaney.com

Marvin “Punky” Leo Massey, age 82, passed away surrounded by family on Thursday evening, the 25th of November 2021 in Hiawatha, KS. Husband, father, grandfather, & great-grandfather, Punky will be missed by all who loved & were loved by him.

Born on January 28th, 1939 in Goff, KS to Elmer “Boots” Massey & his wife Janie, Punky grew up with an unparalleled work ethic. He graduated from Robinson High School in Robinson, KS & went on to take college classes as well. He met his wife, Jo Ann (Schuetz) Massey in Falls City, NE at the movie theater where she worked. It was love at first sight for Punky when the gorgeous, stubborn girl behind the candy counter kicked him & his friends out of the movie “for being too rowdy.” Punky & Jo Ann were joined in marriage on December 28th, 1958 & loved each other fiercely for 62 years.

Punky, a member of the National Guard, was a pillar in the community of Robinson, KS, where he worked at the co-op for 42 years. He also served as a member of the city council, & even held a position as a town cop for a time. Perhaps his best known service to the people of Robinson were his 30 years as part of the volunteer fire department, including an extended period of service as the fire chief. His commitment to family, friends, & community will never be forgotten.

Punky is survived by his loving wife, Jo Ann, & their four children:
Marvin “Peanut” Massey, his wife Tereta, & their son & grandson.
Sandy (Massey) Collins, her husband Kevin, their son, two daughters, & ten grandchildren.
Beth (Massey) Hall, her husband Mark, & her son.
Eric Berry-Massey & his spouse, Dani.

Though the family is sad to lose the man they cherished, they take comfort in the fact that Punky is whole again, no longer in pain, & safe in the arms of Jesus.

Family & friends are invited to celebrate Punky’s life at 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 1, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.  Chaplin Tim Champ, Freedom Hospice, will officiate.  Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, Robinson.

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Robinson Fire Department sent in care the funeral, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Betty Bryan Wenger, Hiawatha, formerly of Powhattan, was born November 24, 1926, to Edgar and Ella Collins Bryan near White Cloud.

Betty passed away a day after her 95th birthday, November 25, 2021 at Amberwell Hiawatha.
She graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1944 and attended Kansas State University.  She taught at a rural school near Powhattan where she met Loyd V. Wenger.  They were married March 4, 1945 and settled on the family farm.  Loyd died March 9, 1984.  She married Chuck Ludwig in February, 1988.  He died August 2004.

She is survived by sons Dennis (Jackie) Wenger and Dean Wenger of Powhattan, daughter Jane (Lee) Osburn of Lawrence, son–in-law Don Ehrlich of Emporia.  Also surviving are grandchildren Dedra (Justin) Stutesman, Amy (Scott) Corcoran, Jered (Michael) Solace, Denise (Greg) O’Bryan, Dusty Wenger, Erin (Jared) Schreiner, Jill (Jason) Selland and Jill Blake, 17 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, brothers: Homer, Woodrow, Robert, Bill, and Clyde Bryan, two sisters Fern Pierson and Alyce Ragan, and her daughter Judy Ehrlich, daughter-in-law Brenda Wenger, and step-grandson Todd Widman.

A Celebration of Betty’s life is planned for 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 30, at the United Methodist Church of Powhattan, with Shane Spangler and Pastor Nicholas Marsh officiating.  Interment will follow at Powhattan Cemetery.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home until 6 p.m. Monday.  The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services Tuesday at the Church.

In lieu of flowers, the Betty requested memorials contributions to the Powhattan Methodist Church, c/o the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

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

Wearing of masks is requested

Wayne Lynn Willmeth, 67, of Kansas City, KS died on Saturday, November 20, 2021, at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, November 30th, 2021, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS with Rev. Mike Bobbitt officiating. Burial will follow in the Sunset Memory Gardens, Atchison, KS. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Monday, November 29th, 2021, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to the Milestone Youth of Greater Kansas City and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Wayne was born on November 10th, 1954, in Atchison, KS the son of Warren L. and Isabelle E. (Graves) Willmeth. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1973. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Kansas. He attended the Christ Unlimited Bible Institute, Kansas City. Wayne worked as a youth minister for Youth for Christ for 16 years, and the 2nd Mile Ministries/Milestone Youth Center for 27 years. Wayne was an Eagle Scout, served as a Boy Scout Adult Leader, was a Sachem in the Tribe of Mico-Say, were he also served as dance director and chaplain for many of the scout camps in the summer. He was a member of the Who’s Who from college, played alto sacs for the Kansas University Marching Band while in KU, and in the Alumni Band. Wayne was also a member of the Order of the Arrow, and had attended Philmont Scout Ranch, and Boundary Waters scout camps. Wayne was known for his generous and kind spirit, devoted to youth ministries’.

Survivors include two brothers, Warren (Joan) Willmeth, Rolling Meadows, IL, and Willie (Patty) Willmeth, Leavenworth, KS, four nieces, two nephews, four great nieces and two great nephews. His parents and grandparents preceded him in death.

Francis S. Koelzer, 93, formerly of Centralia, passed away on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at his daughter’s home near Havensville.

He was born August 29, 1928 the son of Francis W. and Catherine Weber Koelzer.  Francis attended grade school at Coal Creek.  In his early years he worked as a blacksmith at Lillis.  He then moved to Lincoln, Nebraska and worked for the Cushman Motor Company.  He also took night classes at Devry University, which enabled him to own and operate Koelzer T.V. & Appliance, later becoming Koelzer and Sons, for a total of twenty-five years.  He then managed an organic food market in Lincoln for five years.  When he moved back to Kansas he was the maintenance supervisor for the Frankfort Nursing Home, then Community Hospital, Onaga and the Golden Acres Nursing Center.  Francis worked until he was in his late 70’s.

He was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Onaga.  He also led the Rosary at the church and was a Eucharistic Minister to the homebound and nursing home residents.  Francis enjoyed playing cards, checkers, and ice cream.  He loved gardening and nature, especially birds, and did many woodworking projects, making grottos and rosaries.

He married Marjorie R. Marcy on December 27, 1950 at Coal Creek.  She preceded him in death on December 27, 1996.  He married Helen B. Guardiola on July 17, 1999.  She preceded him on January 31, 2021.

Francis was also preceded in death by his parents, a son, William Koelzer, a step-son, Charles Guardiola, and his siblings, Clem Koelzer, Cordula Becker, Dolorosa Engelken, Michael Koelzer, and twin brothers who died at birth, Gabriel and Raphael Koelzer.

Survivors include two sons, James Koelzer (Debbie), Centralia and Eugene Koelzer (Colleen), Firth, NE; three daughters, Marianna Murphy (Mike), Lincoln, NE, Frances Zessin (Greg), Malcolm, NE and Dorothy Fisher (John), Havensville; three step-sons, Calvin Covington (Dorothy), St. Marys, Richard Guardiola (Debbie), Wichita and Varo Guardiola (Sandy), Topeka; three step-daughters, Sandy Erickson (Ray), St. Marys, Renee Vandevelde (Rick), Topeka and Dr. Espe Guardiola, Onaga; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 30th at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.  Burial will follow in St. Patrick Cemetery at Coal Creek.  Francis will lie in state from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Onaga.  He will lie in state after 5:00 p.m. at the church where a Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m., followed by visitation.  Memorials are suggested for Masses for Francis and Helen, their children and grandchildren, and the poor souls in purgatory, and may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 312, Onaga, KS  66521.  On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Francis S. Koelzer, 93, formerly of Centralia, passed away on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at his daughter’s home near Havensville.

He was born August 29, 1928 the son of Francis W. and Catherine Weber Koelzer.  Francis attended grade school at Coal Creek.  In his early years he worked as a blacksmith at Lillis.  He then moved to Lincoln, Nebraska and worked for the Cushman Motor Company.  He also took night classes at Devry University, which enabled him to own and operate Koelzer T.V. & Appliance, later becoming Koelzer and Sons, for a total of twenty-five years.  He then managed an organic food market in Lincoln for five years.  When he moved back to Kansas he was the maintenance supervisor for the Frankfort Nursing Home, then Community Hospital, Onaga and the Golden Acres Nursing Center.  Francis worked until he was in his late 70’s.

He was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Onaga.  He also led the Rosary at the church and was a Eucharistic Minister to the homebound and nursing home residents.  Francis enjoyed playing cards, checkers, and ice cream.  He loved gardening and nature, especially birds, and did many woodworking projects, making grottos and rosaries.

He married Marjorie R. Marcy on December 27, 1950 at Coal Creek.  She preceded him in death on December 27, 1996.  He married Helen B. Guardiola on July 17, 1999.  She preceded him on January 31, 2021.

Francis was also preceded in death by his parents, a son, William Koelzer, a step-son, Charles Guardiola, and his siblings, Clem Koelzer, Cordula Becker, Dolorosa Engelken, Michael Koelzer, and twin brothers who died at birth, Gabriel and Raphael Koelzer.

Survivors include two sons, James Koelzer (Debbie), Centralia and Eugene Koelzer (Colleen), Firth, NE; three daughters, Marianna Murphy (Mike), Lincoln, NE, Frances Zessin (Greg), Malcolm, NE and Dorothy Fisher (John), Havensville; three step-sons, Calvin Covington (Dorothy), St. Marys, Richard Guardiola (Debbie), Wichita and Varo Guardiola (Sandy), Topeka; three step-daughters, Sandy Erickson (Ray), St. Marys, Renee Vandevelde (Rick), Topeka and Dr. Espe Guardiola, Onaga; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 30th at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.  Burial will follow in St. Patrick Cemetery at Coal Creek.  Francis will lie in state from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Onaga.  He will lie in state after 5:00 p.m. at the church where a Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m., followed by visitation.  Memorials are suggested for Masses for Francis and Helen, their children and grandchildren, and the poor souls in purgatory, and may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 312, Onaga, KS  66521.  On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Paschual “Andy” Andrew Robertson, 53 of Holton, KS passed away with his family by his side on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at the Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, KS. He was born May 4, 1968 in Carlsbad, New Mexico the son of Samuel Jr. and Reba Nell (Thacker) Robertson. He graduated from Lubbock Monterrey High School in 1986.

On June 25, 1994 Andy was united in marriage to Mona Lynn Tapp at the Lenexa Church of Christ in Lenexa, KS They shared over 27 years of marriage. To this union they shared 4 children; Lori, James, Katie and Rebecca.

Andy worked for Albertson Grocery Store in Lubbock, TX as a customer service manager for over 10 years. Andy for the past 10 years has been employed for BNSF Railroad as a mechanical carman. Andy was a life long member of the Church of Christ and a current member of the 17th Street Church of Christ in Topeka. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting. Andy loved reading books, especially world war history and old westerns. Andy saw himself as a cowboy and he loved the landscape of southwest. Most of all, Andy was a loving husband and father where he taught his family how to love God and to love one another. They will continue on those life lessons in all of their daily lives forever…

Andy is preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Reba Robertson.

Andy is survived by his wife Mona of the home; 4 children, Lori Nell Robertson of Holton, KS, James Andrew Robertson of Lawrenceville, GA, Katie Lynn Robertson of Loganville, GA and Rebecca Leigh Robertson of Holton, KS; granddaughter, Caitlin E. Cook-Robertson of Holton, KS; sister, Carrie A. Hurd (Jeff) of West Virginia; and a brother, Samuel Robertson III (Gina) of Albuquerque, NM.

Funeral services will be held at 6:30 P.M. Monday, November 29, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, KS. Andy will be cremated after the service and a private family inurnment will take place at a later date. Andy will lie-in-state Saturday, November 27, 2021 from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. He will also lie-in-state Sunday from 10 A.M. – 2 P.M. until the family will greet friends 2-4 P.M. Sunday, November 28, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, KS. Memorial contributions may be made to the 17th Street Church of Christ of Topeka c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave the family a condolence please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Roy Lee Thornton, 65, of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Monday, November 22, 2021 at Mosaic Hospital. 

Roy was born on July 8, 1956 in Highland, Kansas to David and Martha (Ackerson) Thornton, Sr. 

He worked at MGP in Atchison, Kansas.  Roy’s career with MGP Ingredients spanned 47 years starting on August 14, 1974.  He spent his entire career in the distillery with the majority of the time in the Feed and Grain area.  Roy was the most senior operator in the Plant (this is a big deal in the union).   

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters, Alice Cheek, Mary Ann Weir and brother, David Thornton, Jr. 

He is survived by his daughter, Dianna Beck (Shane) of Derby, Kansas 

              Son, Roy Thornton, Jr. of St. Joseph, Missouri 

           Brother, Paul Thornton of Horton, Kansas 

           5 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

FUNERAL: Saturday, November 27, 2021 – 2:00 P.M. 

            At: Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas 

           Burial: Courter Cemetery N.E. of Troy, Kansas 

      Visitation:  the family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the funeral (1-2pm) at the funeral home. 

   Memorials: In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to the Roy Thornton Memorial Fund 

                      www.harmanrohde.com 

Merlin James Phillips, 84, of rural Humboldt, Nebraska was born on November 17, 1937 in rural Humboldt, Nebraska to James and Marie (Gartner) Phillips.  Merlin was raised with his younger brother Paul on the family farm north of Humboldt and attended Northwest Star country school.  He then attended Bratton Union High School where he participated in football and basketball.  Merlin graduated as Salutatorian of the class of 1955.  After graduation, he took classes at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and served in the National Guard for 11 years. 

Merlin was a life-long farmer and farmed in partnership with his brother until Paul’s retirement in 2006.  He was a member of the Pleasant View Methodist Church where he served as Financial Secretary before changing his membership to the United Methodist Church in Humboldt.  While a member in Humboldt, Merlin served the congregation as Head Usher.  Merlin was also treasurer of the Bratton Union Alumni and treasurer of the Pleasant View Cemetery.  He enjoyed watching high school sports, Husker Volleyball and visiting with his family, neighbors and friends.

Merlin went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, November 22, 2021, at the Falls City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Falls City, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of eighty-four years and five days.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Paul and niece by marriage Patti Phillips.

Merlin is survived by his nephew Brad Phillips and wife Ann of rural Humboldt, NE; niece Shari Drake and husband Les of Humboldt, NE; sister-in-law Janice Phillips of Humboldt, NE; great-nephews: Will, Carter and Trey Drake of Humboldt, NE; and many friends and neighbors.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 30, 2021, at the United Methodist Church in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Dorothy Smith officiating.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Monday, November 29, 2021, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska.  Family will greet friends from 6-7 p.m. at the mortuary.

Interment will immediately follow services at the Pleasant View Cemetery in rural Humboldt, Nebraska.

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

Messages of condolence can be left online at www.wherrymortuary.com

Services are entrusted to Wherry Mortuary-Humboldt, Nebraska (402) 862-2915

Carol Allison (Schultz) Guier, 67, of Kansas City, Missouri passed away Saturday, November 20, 2021 at her home. 

Carol was born on December 10, 1953 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri to Edward and Betty (Shankle) Schultz. 

Carol is a graduate of Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri. 

She married Roger Guier on April 15, 1978. He survives of the home. Carol was preceded in death by her parents. 

Additional survivors include her daughter, Gillian Ewart (Nicholas), brother Edward Schultz and one granddaughter. 

Memorial Service: 2:00 P.M. Friday, November 26, 2021 at the Harman Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas. 

Visitation: 1 hour prior to service at the funeral home. 

Inurnment at the Bellevue Cemetery, Leona, Kansas. 

www.harmanrohde.com 

Vera B. (Willard) Jeanneret, 86, of Brock, Nebraska passed away on Sunday, November 21, 2021, at the Nemaha County Hospital in Auburn.  She was born on November 12, 1935 in Brownville, Nebraska.  Vera was the oldest of four children born to Clarence and Eva Bell (Simms) Willard.  She was raised in Auburn and graduated from Auburn High School.

On May 31, 1953, Vera was united in marriage to Paul Jeanneret Jr. and to this union four boys, David, Dennis, Darrell and Delbert were born.  Vera was a member of the Auburn Christian Church where she was baptized in 1951.  For many years, Vera helped the community print the Brock Bugle and volunteered her time at the Good Samaritan Society in Auburn.  She enjoyed cross stich and working with plastic canvas.  Vera made all the family Christmas ornaments throughout the years.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband Paul in 2004, her sister Dorothy Schlup and brother Ronald (Kayberdena) Willard.  Vera is survived by her sons: Dave Jeanneret of Brock, Dennis Jeanneret and Linda Carder of Brock, Darrell Jeanneret of Auburn, Delbert Jeanneret and wife Kristal of Brock, 12 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, several great-great-grandchildren and her sister Janice Jeanneret of Papillion, NE.  She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 29, 2021, at the Hall Funeral Chapel, 707 15th Street in Auburn with Johnny Jeanneret officiating.

Visitation will be from 1 p.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday, November 28, 2021, at the Hall Funeral Chapel in Auburn with the family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m.

Interment will immediately follow services at the Clifton Cemetery near Brock, Nebraska.

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

Condolences can be shared online at www.hallfuneral.net

Arrangements entrusted to Hall Funeral Chapel-707 15th ST.-Auburn, NE 68305 (402) 274-3131  

Mildred Frances Streeter, 82, of Vermillion, Kansas died Sunday, November 21, 2021 at her grandson’s residence in Raytown, Missouri.

Graveside service will be Saturday, November 27, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Centralia Cemetery. A visitation will be held Saturday, November 27, 2021 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Popkess Memorial Chapel in Seneca, Kansas.

Mildred will lie in state Wednesday, November 24, 2021 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Popkess Memorial Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermillion American Legion Post #257 sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel 814 Castle Seneca, Kansas 66538. www.popkessmortuairs.com

Curtis Edward Gamble, of Hiawatha, passed away November 18, 2021 at the age of 64; he was surrounded by his wife and children after a long fight with pancreatic cancer.

Curtis was born March 16, 1957, in Hiawatha, Kansas, to Rowena Elizabeth (Dixon) Gamble and Edgar Curtis Gamble. He attended Hiawatha schools, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track, setting multiple records that still stand today. After graduating from Hiawatha High school in 1975, Curtis attended Highland Community College before receiving his Bachelor of Science in Social Science from Kansas State University in 1982.

After college, Curtis joined the U.S. Navy, where he reached the rank of Petty Officer Third Class. He served aboard the frigate U.S.S. Bagley, working as both an administrative assistant and Chief Petty Officer, and contributed to Over-the-Horizon Targeting and cruise missile employment before being honorably discharged in 1988.

In a true example of love-at-first-sight, Curtis met Jeanne Marie (Henry) Gamble on a blind date in September 1986. A few short months later, the two were married on April 25, 1987. Their love is manifested by their three children: Christi, Kathryn, and Jonathan.

Curtis worked tirelessly at whatever he set out to do. He served 21 years in law enforcement as a Probation Officer in Brown and Doniphan Counties and as a Corrections Counselor for the California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation. He also followed his father’s footsteps and created his own business, starting Gamble’s Lawn Care & Spraying Service. In its decades–plus years of operation, it flourished into one of the largest and most renowned black-owned business in northeast Kansas. He would work from sunrise to sunset, to the annoyance of his children who were forced to try to keep up with him.

Few people love their sports teams more than Curtis. Each weekend, he could be found watching his KSU Wildcats or Kansas City Chiefs, yelling at the referees or shouting, “Chiefs, baby!” at the top of his lungs. He also enjoyed grilling a mean steak, watching every Star Trek episode known to man, and remembered his love of music. His voice could move mountains, and all who heard him sing were blown away. In the mornings, he enjoyed obnoxiously waking his children by singing “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning!” at the top of his lungs. He was voted World’s Best Dad, as evidenced by his many mugs and t-shirts (except during his kids’ teenage years, when they dropped him a few notches). Curtis was also a man of great faith and cultivated a life-long relationship with the Lord; he studied Hebrew, sang in the choir, and read his Bible diligently.

Curtis is survived by his wife Jeanne Gamble of the home; sisters: Jacqueline Dodson of Topeka, KS, and Michaelle (Gamble) Warner of Overland Parks, KS; three children: Christi (Daniel) Gentry of Hiawatha, KS; Kathryn Gamble of Hiawatha, KS; Jonathan (Jaime) Gamble of Livermore, CA; five grandchildren: Sean, Faith, and Matthew Gentry, Damien Jackson, and Mariah Weathersby; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. Curtis is now reunited in paradise with his parents, Rowena and Edgar “Jack” Gamble, grandparents, and many cousins and friends. His faith, which carried him through his earthly troubles/struggles has been rewarded with an eternal glory.

The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November, 27, at 1 p.m. at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha. Burial with military honors, a courtesy of Brown County Veterans Honor Guard, with follow services at Hiawatha Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Fisher Center.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 12 noon Friday and after 10 a.m. Saturday. The family will meet with friends Friday evening from 6 until 7:30.

Memorial contributions are suggested to either Hope Brown County Cancer Fund or Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434.

Condolences or notes to the family may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Penny Lee Zeller Hasenkamp of rural Baileyville, Kansas passed away at the age of 64 on Friday, November 19, 2021 surrounded by family at the Onaga Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.

Penny was born December 13, 1956 in Manhattan, Kansas.  She was one of four daughters born to William B. Evans and Anita (Ochs) Evans.  She was raised in the St. George community and graduated from St. George High School in May of 1974.  She attended Cloud County Community College and graduated in May of 1976 with a degree in journalism.

While attending college, she met her first husband, Daniel Zeller, of Paxico, Kansas.  They were married on June 12, 1976.  Three children were born to this union.  They later divorced.

On Labor Day weekend of 1991, she met her second husband, Glen Lee Hasenkamp.  They were united in marriage on January 18, 2012.

Penny offered years of child care services to many children in the Paxico area.  She was later well known for her work with The Smoke Signal in Wamego, Kansas.  After meeting her husband, Glen Lee, and moving to Baileyville, Kansas she worked for KANZA Land Radio for a number of years.  Penny then worked for the Seneca Chamber of Commerce and Midland Hospice. 

Penny enjoyed being actively involved in all her children’s school activities and being able to attend all their events.  Over the years, Penny had many hobbies that she enjoyed. She was an avid camping, fishing, and outdoors woman.  She enjoyed passing these activities along to her grandchildren.  Penny had a passion for photography and enjoyed traveling with her husband and being able to capture all kinds of beautiful scenery.  She was also a proud member of the Columbian Theater Art group in Wamego, Kansas where she had the opportunity to showcase her photography.  Her all-time favorite hobby was spending time with her grandchildren and adopted grandchildren all of whom she dearly loved. 

Penny is survived by Glen Lee, her loving husband of 30 years of the home. Her children, Amy (Kieron) Butler of Hartselle, Alabama; Amber (Anthony) Heigert of Paxico, Kansas; and Andy (Shawn Hulsing) of St. George, Kansas;  her two sisters, Nancy Tobias of Overland Park, Kansas and Billie Anderson of Missoula, Montana.  As she affectionately called them her “Babies” Bryce (Jaden Kincaid) Schultz, Bradyn and Cierra Schultz, Zowie Butler, Henry and Madelyn Heigert, Jed and Kiptyn Zeller, Byren Hulsing, and her many surrogate children and grandchildren.   She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Sharlot Barr; and brother-in-law, Robert Barr.

Penny will lie in state at Popkess Memorial Chapel in Seneca, Kansas on Monday, November 22, 2021 and the family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.  She will then lie in state at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan, Kansas on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 and the family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.   

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home in Manhattan, Kansas on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at 11:00 a.m.  Interment will follow at the Westmoreland City Cemetery in Westmorland, Kansas.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Penny Hasenkamp Memorial Fund.  Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com

Ruth Kathleen Wenger 95, of Whiting, Kansas passed away peacefully on November 17, 2021 at home surrounded by her family.

Ruth was born on April 23, 1926 in Everest, Kansas the daughter of Robert and Alexa (Brull) Irsik and was the oldest of two children.

She graduated from Everest High School in 1944 and was then employed at her uncle’s grocery store, Rosenhoover Mercantile, in Everest, Kansas.

Ruth married the love of her life, Chester Wenger, on February 4, 1948 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Everest, Kansas. Ruth and Chester made their home near Whiting, Kansas where Ruth was a homemaker and helped on the farm. They were members of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Mercier, Kansas then became members of St. Leo’s Catholic Church in Horton, Kansas after St. Peter’s closed.

Ruth was a member of the Altar Society at St. Peter’s, St. Leo’s Altar Society, Bingo Committee, and helped with the Religious Education program. Ruth’s interests included cooking, playing pitch, dancing, gardening, and visiting with family and friends.

She is survived by her loving husband of 73 years, Chester Wenger of the home.  Children Katherine (John) Scott of Horton, Kansas, Frances (Marty) Ramirez of Lebo, Kansas, David (Jill) Wenger of Atchison, Kansas, and Charla (Scott) Bailey of Seguin, Texas. She is also survived by ten grandchildren John (Tricia) Scott of Shawnee, Kansas, Alex Scott of DeSoto, Kansas, Paul (Starla) Scott of Tonganoxie, Kansas, John (Carly) Russell of Windsor, Wisconsin, Nicole (Jonathan Wilke) Ramirez of Lawrence, Kansas, Jesse (Jessey) Ramirez of Bayfield, Colorado, Sarah (Bill) Bourne of Kansas City, Missouri, Melissa (Keith) Van Horn of Lawrence, Kansas, Shelly (Levi) Valentine of Olathe, Kansas, and Miles (Lindsey) Wenger of Marquette, Michigan. Ruth is also survived by 17 great grandchildren Connor, Hallie, Alyssa, Ella, James, Zane, Soren, Arianna, Veronica, Marcus, Alexa, Avery, Claire, Lawson, Benjamin, Owen, and Carson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, William (Bill) Irsik, and great granddaughter, Zaira Josephine Bourne.

Friends and family may pay their respects on Tuesday, November 23 at Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. A parish rosary will be recited on Wednesday, November 24 at 9:45am at St. Leo’s Catholic Church in Horton, Kansas. Following, the family will greet friends from 10:00-10:30am.  A mass of Christian burial will then be at 10:30am with Father Dan Gardner officiating. Interment will follow at the St. Leo’s Catholic cemetery in Horton, Kansas. Memorials may be made to the Holton Community Hospital Home Health & Hospice. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com.

Mark Brewer, 52, of Falls City, NE, passed away November 19, 2021 at Falls City after a 2 1/2 years battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born January 27, 1969 at Falls City to Fred and Dorothy (Scholl) Brewer.

He married Becky Huppert on July 18, 1992 at Falls City.

Mark was raised at Falls City and graduated Falls City High School in 1987. Following graduation he started farming with his father and continued with his father and brother, Scott, on the family farm his entire life. In addition to farming, Mark also operated a bulldozer, excavator and had boom lifts he rented. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and the Falls City Catholic Cemetery Board. He served on the Rural Volunteer Fire Department. He was also a member of the NK Pullers Association, was active in the Jaycees and had a love for tractor pulling, helped with local tractor pulls and assisted in preparing the local Jaycee track for competition, earning awards for “Track of the Year” and a member of the Rulo Boat Club.

Mark is survived by his wife, Becky of Falls City, children, Sydney, Justin and Alexis all of Falls City, siblings, Scott and his wife Trish of Falls City, Michelle Becker and her husband Dennis of Seneca, KS and Nicole McAfee of Falls City.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, November 24, 2021 at 10:30 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Lawrence Stoley as the presiding priest. Interment will be in Falls City Catholic Cemetery.

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS THE FAMILY PREFERS MEMORIALS BE MADE TO FAMILY CHOICE.

A Parish Rosary will be recited on Tuesday at 6:00 PM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. The family will receive friends following the rosary at Tiehen Gymnasium

A Celebration of Mark's life will take place following the committal service at the "Brewer Shop".

Shannon Louise Scott, 65, of Everest, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 at the Amber Health Hiawatha Hospital.

She was born on April 30, 1956 in Atchison, Kansas the daughter of Patrick and Patricia Callahan Moore. After graduating from high school she attended Kansas University for three years and then later she received her Associates Degree from Barton County Community College. She served with the U.S. Army.

Shannon worked as an editor for the Horton Headlight, Gaskell Machine but she enjoyed being a paramedic and EMT the most of all, working for the Horton EMS for years and the Town & Country EMS. She was a lifetime member of the Everest American Legion and the Everest Fire Department.

On August 6, 1977 she married Mark Scott in Horton, Kansas.

Survivors include her husband, Mark Scott of the home, Everest, Kansas; mother, Patricia Callahan Moore of Horton, Kansas; two sons, Corey (Pam) Scott of Everest, Kansas and Cody Scott of Everest, Kansas; two grandchildren, Haley and Patrick Scott. She was preceded in death by her father.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, November 22, 2021 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas with burial to follow at the Kimberlin Cemetery northeast of Everest, Kansas.

The family will greet friends on Sunday from 2:00 to 3:30 P.M. at the mortuary.

Memorial may be made to the Shannon Scott memorial fund to be designated later and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Johny “John” Martin, age 79, of Effingham, Kansas, died Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family.

Graveside services will be Saturday, November 20, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery in Effingham, KS. No formal visitation is scheduled as John will lie in state on Friday Nov. 19th at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home where friends may call after 11:00 A.M. Memorial contributions are suggested to the ACCHS Drama Department or Freedom Hospice (Hiawatha, KS) and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom funeral care has been entrusted.  

Johny Orville Warner Martin was born on November 24, 1941, Pixley, California, the son of Rosebud “Fuller” and Ethel (Chaney) Martin. He attended schools in Arkansas.

John and Patricia Canterberry were united in marriage on January 26, 1962 in Wesley, Arkansas. They would have celebrated 60 years of marriage in January 2022.

John started his work history helping build a feed lot in Nebraska. He then became employed with Weyerhaeser Lumber in Oregon before being transferred to Wright City, Oklahoma. John worked for Weyerhaeser for 26 years until his retirement.

He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Wright City, Oklahoma. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and welding. John was a true handy man, there wasn’t much he couldn’t fix ranging from electrical to plumbing and all things in between.  He had a huge heart and was always willing to help someone in need. John was extremely proud of his family.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Pat Martin, of the home in Effingham, KS; a daughter, Melinda (Lee) Oswald, Effingham, KS; a son, Johnny (Donna) Martin, Effingham, KS; two sisters, Freda Bear, NV, Shirley Ann (Mike) Gomez, Big Fort, MT; two brothers, Willie “Maxie” (Mary Kay) Martin, Black Foot, ID; James Alfred Martin, Post Falls, ID; five grandchildren, Tricia (Robbie) Parker, Sarah (Phil) Sinclair, Phillip (Katie) Martin, Derek Oswald, Trevor Oswald, and six great grandchildren, Blake and Brooklynn Parker, Annabelle and Joseph Sinclair, Valerie Oswald and Camden Martin.

He is preceded in death by four sisters, Sarah Margaret, Lillian Marie, Ida Lee, Mary Collen and two brothers, Rosebud and George Andrew.

Sandra Keller, 65, of Salem, NE, passed away November 16, 2021 at Salem. She was born June 5, 1956 at St. Joseph, MO to Mayford and Donna (Wilson) Stevenson.

She married Rodney Elrod on January 3, 1976. He passed away in August of 1978. She then married Charlie Keller on April 1, 2015 at Sabetha, KS. He passed away April 12, 2018.

Sandra was spent some of her youth in California but grew up mostly in Northeast Kansas. She and her mother ran a restaurant in Fanning, KS for a few years before she became employed at Sabetha Manor working in laundry and housekeeping, she eventually became the supervisor for that department, later she worked at Dairy Queen and All Star Truck Stop at Sabetha.

Sandra is survived by her son, Jason Elrod and his wife Britinna of Dawson, NE, brothers, Ron and Jeff Hass both of Branson, MO, sisters, Diana Hluze and her husband Joe, Debbie Large and her husband Dennis and Cindy Berg all of Branson, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and both husband.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, November 22, 2021 at 1:30 PM at Rulo Cemetery with Pastor Cheryl Mishler officiating.

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

Viewing will begin on Saturday afternoon.

Cleo Nathan Coffman, 88, of Horton, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 at the Hiawatha Community Hospital.

He was born on July 11, 1933 in Horton, Kansas the son of Thomas and Alice Thompson Coffman. After high school Cleo was drafted into the U.S. Army, he served during the Korean Conflict. Cleo worked for the City of Horton in the water department until he retired. He enjoyed, fishing, hunting, gardening and traveling in this later years. He married Nancy Wilhelm on April 27, 1957 in Horton, Kansas. She preceded him in death in 1994. He then married Lorna Gullickson LaCroix in 1995 at the Horton Baptist Church.  She also preceded him in death in 2016.

Survivors include two daughters, Pam Watkins of Horton, Kansas and Alice Trundle of Horton, Kansas; two sons, Thomas Coffman of Cummings, Kansas and Nathan Coffman of Horton, Kansas; two sisters, Joyce Olberding of Seneca, Kansas and Jean Thornton of Wamego, Kansas; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, Mary Coffman, Alberta Grauer and Della Hartley and two brothers, Johnie Coffman and Cecil Coffman.

Graveside services and burial will be at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, November 20, 2021 at the Horton City Cemetery. Friends may call on Friday at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. Memorial may be made to the Cleo Coffman memorial fund to be designated later and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Henry “Hank” T. Osterhaus, 71, of Salem, NE, passed away November 15, 2021 at Falls City. He was born February 21, 1950 at Axtell, KS to Henry A. and Frances (Holthaus) Osterhaus.

He married Theresa Wessel in 1971 and they were divorced in 1994.

Hank was raised at St. Benedict and graduated B & B High School at Baileyville, KS in 1968. Following graduation he worked as a mechanic for various farmers, Brey Motor’s and Osterhaus Garage both of Sabetha. He also worked at Stalder Cattle for many years, retiring in 2014. He then worked part-time for many farmers fixing their older equipment. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church at St. Benedict, KS. 

Hank is survived by his son, Brian and his wife Brandon of Colorado Springs, CO, Darin and his wife Jennifer of Sabetha, KS, brothers, Robert and his wife Zita of Summerfield, KS, Richard and his wife Mary Kay of Beatrice, NE, Gerald C. and his wife Judy of Seneca, KS, Dennis and his wife Kathleen of Sabetha, sisters, Mildred Eisenbarth of Hoyt, KS, Sister Immaculata DCJ at Wauwatosa, WI, Sharon Broxterman and her husband Richard of Sabetha, Jeanette Koch and her husband Elmer of Kansas City, MO and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Marvin and Edward (10), and sisters, Delores Brucken and Jo Ann Sandmann.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 19, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Lawrence Stoley as the presiding priest.

A Parish Rosary will be recited on Friday, 1 hour prior to service at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

No viewing or visitation.

Thomas E. Sowers, 89 of Atchison, KS, passed away Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at the Highland Nursing Home, Highland, KS.

Funeral service will be 1:30 PM Friday, November 19, 2021, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Atchison, KS, with Rev. Tim Sowers and Rev. Robert Ziegler officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens, Atchison, KS. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran School Endowment Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Tom was born August 16, 1932, in Atchison, KS, the son of William and Freida (Kley) Sowers. He worked for many years at General Motors Assembly plant in Arlington, TX. Tom was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church and enjoyed traveling with his wife Betty to the Holy Land, Egypt, and Europe.

Tom married Charlotte Lakey they later divorced. He married Betty Jamison on October 6, 2002; she survives of the home. Survivors include three sons, Larry Sowers, Arlington, TX, Neal Sowers, Crowley, TX, Don and Angie Sowers, Franklin, TN, stepchildren, Mark Jamison, Goddard, KS, Chris Jamison, Helena, MT, Tarryn Jamison, Bolder, CO, Kim Williford, Bolder, CO and Robin Jamison, Westminster, CO, a brother Robert Sowers, St. Joseph, MO, six grandchildren and numerous step grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren.

He was preceded by his parents, a stepson, Scotty Jamison, three brothers, Charlie, Gerald, and Edward (his twin) Sowers and a sister Mildred Hamersky.

Carolyn Ruth Bell, 81, of Holton, KS, passed away, Monday, November 15, 2021 at Medicalodge Jackson County. She was born October 7, 1940 in Sabetha, KS, the daughter of Walter and Alice (Derr) Fund.

Carolyn graduated from Goff High School in 1958. She worked for Capper Publications in Topeka, Kansas State Bank in Holton and along side her husband, Gary, at Bell Graphics in Holton.

She was a member of Circleville Christian Church, Sunshine Club, Holton Business Women and Pilots Club.

Carolyn married Gary Lee Bell on July 9, 1960 in Goff, KS. They celebrated over 61 years of marriage.

Survivors include her husband, Gary of the home; daughter, Lori Mellenbruch (Earl) of Soldier, KS; son, Darren Bell (Arthur Gilkison) of Denver, CO; sister, Mary Fund (Ed Reznicek) of Goff, KS; brother, Arlie G. Fund of Delia, KS; 5 grandchildren and 2 great-granddaughters.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Alice Fund; son, Paul Bell and brother, Roger Fund.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 18, 2021 at the Circleville Christian Church. Carolyn will lie in state at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton on Wednesday and the family will meet friends from 5 – 7 p.m. Wednesday evening. Interment will be in Barnes Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be given to the Circleville Christian Church or HCH Hospice c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Cody Lee "Waa-Ka-Mo" Ramirez, 32, of the Kickapoo Reservation, but lived in Topeka, Kansas passed away on Friday, November 12, 2021 at his home in Topeka, Kansas.

He was born on January 28, 1989 in Hiawatha, Kansas the son of Stefani Gomez and Tony Ramirez. Cody had a lot of hard obstacles to deal with at a very young age. He got diabetes at five years of age and leukemia at six. He was able to beat the cancer and went on to grow into a very empathetic compassionate person who despite his own struggles cared very deeply for everyone in his own way. He was an old 'soul who believed with all his heart! He loved his music, reading, studying the bible and being with friends and family. He definitely left his mark! And will be deeply missed!

He is survived by his parents, Stefani (Gomez) McKinney of Pawnee, Oklahoma and Tony Ramirez of Hiawatha, Kansas; son, Cody Ramirez Jr. of White Cloud, Kansas; brother, Kyle Ramirez of Pawnee, Oklahoma; four aunts, Andrea Shuckahosee of Topeka, Kansas, Nicole Gomez of St. Joseph, Missouri, Dana Jo Dooley of Kansas City, Kansas and Sabrina Ramirez of Kansas City, Missouri; One uncle, Sam Ramirez of Horton, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Calvin Ramirez. A community supper and visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at the Kickapoo Community Building from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. on the Kickapoo Reservation. Service will begin on Thursday, November 18, 2021 at 9:30 A.M. at the Kickapoo Community Building with burial to follow at the Kennekuk Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Linda Paulette Hartley, age 72, of Troy, formerly of Severance, passed away at home November 12, 2021, with her fiancé Joe and daughter Mindy due to complications from COPD.

Linda was born April 19, 1949, in Seattle, Washington, and was blessed to have three children:  Melissa, Mindy, and Gary.  She loved music, singing, movies, crocheting and doing crafts.

She was active on the city council for Severance, KS a few years.  She also worked for NEK CAP and Highland Healthcare as a housekeeper for a short time.

Linda is survived by her three children, her fiancé, eight grandchildren fifteen great-grandchildren and two brothers.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, and three brothers.

Memorial services are planned for 11 a.m. Monday, November 22, 2021, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland, with Chaplin Tim Champ of Freedom Hospice officiating.

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to Freedom Hospice which may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33, Highland 66035

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

Margaret Ann (Handke) Green, 78, of Atchison, KS, passed away Saturday, November 6, 2021, at Olathe Medical Center, Olathe, KS.

Funeral service will be 1:00 PM, Saturday, November 20, 2021, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Doniphan Cemetery, Doniphan, KS. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Friday, November 19, 2021, at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to Doniphan Cemetery and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Margaret was born February 27, 1943, in Leavenworth, KS, the daughter of Ted and Margaret (Vossmer) Handke. She was an entrepreneur who owned many businesses over the years, which included a trucking company a real estate business, a restaurant, a fireworks business, farming, and many more. Margaret was a cowgirl. She participated in the National High School Rodeo, Rodeo Cowboys of America, and The American Royal. She trained horses and was a competitive barrel racer into her mid-forties. Margaret took great pride in driving a semi-truck for the past 37 years, which she continued until her final days. She was an avid fan of KU Jayhawks basketball and Kansas City Chiefs football fan. Margaret enjoyed designing, building, crafting, and remolding projects. She was very handy with tools.

Survivors include two daughters, Ann Hutchinson, Atchison, KS, Cory and Ed Cardona, Lake Placid, FL, two sons, Brian and Avelyn Green, Peyton, CO, Ted and Shayla Harvey, Ottawa, KS, a brother, Richard and Laura Yelton Handke, Boise ID and a sister, Teddy Jean and Ivan Berends, Hailey, ID, thirteen grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren.

She was preceded by her parents and a son in law, David Hutchinson.

 Steven Ray “Steve” Robinson, 67, of Holton, KS, passed away Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at University of Kansas St. Francis Campus in Topeka, KS. He was born October 9, 1954 in Holton, KS, the son of Robert Eugene and Katherine Mary (Welch) Robinson.

Steve attended Netawaka Grade School and Jackson Heights High School.

He was a lifelong farmer and stockman. Steve and his wife, Otha, raised draft mules for many years. He also worked at Holton Livestock Exchange off and on for over 30 years. He was a member of the Midwest Pony Pullers.

 Steve married Otha Ree Spielman on July 12, 1980 in Topeka, KS. They celebrated over 41 years of marriage.

 Survivors include his wife, Otha of the home; son, Donny Robinson (Cara) of Holton, KS; 3 daughters, Jessie Robinson, Jackie Robinson and Catlin Cooper (Chris) all of Holton, KS; sister, Linda Kirkham of Holton, KS and 3 grandchildren, Cash, Rilley and Ruby.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Katherine Robinson.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 15, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. Sunday afternoon at the funeral home. Memorial may be given to the Steven R. Robinson Memorial Fund to be designated at a later date c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Adam F. Hestermann, age 40 of Auburn, passed away Wednesday, November 10, 2021, at Nemaha County Hospital in Auburn.

Survivors include his partner Beth Hestermann of Auburn; children Amber, Joseph, Steven, and Bailey Hestermann all of Auburn; parents Gary and Princess Hestermann of Humboldt; parents-in-law Steve and Dee Smallfoot of Auburn; sisters and brother-in-law Regina Hestermann of Tennessee, Deonna and James Portrey of Pawnee City; brother Eric Hestermann of Humboldt; sisters-in-law Michelle (Brian) Schuetz of Auburn, Rebecca (Adam) Liess of Rock Port; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be Monday, November 15, 2:00 p.m. at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn. Visitation will be on Sunday at the funeral home from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with family greeting friends from 1:00 to 3:00.

Memorials are suggested in lieu of flowers to family choice

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.

Barbara A. Baumgartner, 89, Atchison, Kansas died Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at Vintage Park of Atchison.

Mass of Christian burial will be Monday, November 15, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church with Rev. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant.  Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  A parish rosary will be recited on Sunday, November 14, 2021 at 4:00 P.M. in the chapel of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 5:00 P.M.  Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Abbey or Mount St. Scholastica Convent or St. Benedict Parish and may be left in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.

Barbara was born November 27, 1931 in Fort Worth, TX to Eugene Raymond Stotts and Mary Frances Harris Stotts, where her father began his pilot’s training.  When Gene Stotts retired, he was Chief Pilot for American Airlines’ western division and had designed their first logo.

Her parents divorced when Barbara was a baby, and her mother returned to her hometown, Carthage, MO.  Years later, Barbara became the beloved stepdaughter of Harold O. Beard, partner in Miller Beard’s men’s clothing store (Carthage) when he and Mary married.

Barbara was graduated from Hawthorn Grade School and Carthage High School, then attended college in Atchison, KS at Mount St. Scholastica College, and was graduated in 1953. While there, she met her husband, chemistry professor George J. Baumgartner, Ph.D.  They married Pentecost Monday, June 7, 1954 in Carthage.  They resided in Atchison and were members of St. Benedict’s Parish.

After college, Barbara was hired by Mother Alfred Schroll to teach French and English at the Academy of Mount St. Scholastica. Carthage Public Schools were paying $2800 a year.  Mother Alfred told her they couldn’t pay that, but they could pay $2700 plus $50 a month room & board.

Barbara stayed home 21 years to raise their six children as George progressed in his career, later becoming Academic Dean at Benedictine College.   Sr. Paula Howard requested her return to teaching at the Academy of Mount St. Scholastica.  She first taught while her youngest child was in morning kindergarten.

Through the years, Barbara taught at Benedictine College and the American Language Academy, including French, English and English as a Second Language.  Her students were from all over the world, including the Middle East, South America and Asia, and she was often invited to stay with their families.  She took students on a group tour to France. On later continuing education trips, she made lifelong friends in France. 

Barbara was an Oblate at St. Benedict’s Abbey for 69 years.  She was a Red Cross volunteer, certified by the Red Cross in home nursing and as a water safety swimming instructor.  She also served as a Gray Lady for Leavenworth’s veterans’ hospital.   She volunteered on numerous committees for St. Benedict’s Church and Grade School.

In 2016, George & Barbara were awarded Benedictine College’s highest honor, The Cross of the Order of St. Benedict.

Dr. Baumgartner preceded her in death February 10, 2018.  Their children survive: Virginia A. Baumgartner, Thomas A. Baumgartner (Diane Howard), Joan C. Taylor (Raymond), David F. Baumgartner (Charlotte), Stephen J. Baumgartner and M. Constance Broski (Mark).  They have nine grandchildren, two step grandchildren and three step great grandchildren.

Jesse Lane Reiss, 64, of Weston, MO, died Saturday, November 6, 2021, at his home in Weston, MO.

Memorial services will be 3:00 pm on Saturday, November 13th, 2021, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Elder Don Payne officiating. Burial of cremated remains will be at a later date in the Oak Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services on Saturday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Three Rivers Hospice or the American Cancer Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Jesse was born on February 17, 1957, in Smithville, MO, the son of Frederick “Wayne” and Elizabeth Anne (Borland) Reiss. He graduated from West Platte (Weston) High School in 1975. Jesse worked at several grocery stores as a department manager. He was a member of the Community of Christ Church. Jesse also played in several Country / Rock bands including Stagecoach and Diesel Smoke. He enjoyed playing drums and keyboards. He also enjoyed making people laugh, especially his nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, his stepchildren, and step grandchildren.

Jesse was married to Karen Merrill on July 12, 1985, in Weston, MO. Karen preceded him in death on April 28, 2014. His parents, four sisters; Mary Anne, Waunita, Gloria and Diana Reiss, a nephew, Adam Reiss, niece, Jean Anne Mitchell, and three grandchildren; Lainey Fultz, Nolan Fultz, and Logan Watowa also preceded him in death.

Survivors include three brothers; Fredrick (Rebecca) Reiss, Kansas City, MO, Frank (Rebecca) Reiss, Weston, MO, Donald (Janice) Reiss, Cummings, KS, a stepdaughter, April (Daryl) Watowa and two stepsons; Alan Fultz and Jeff Fultz, Atchison, KS, four grandchildren, one great granddaughter, several nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Kenneth Neil Glassel, 85, of Valley Falls, KS, passed away Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at University of Kansas Hospital St. Francis Campus in Topeka. He was born June 22, 1936 in Valley Falls, KS, the son of Orville Otis and Ilene “Blanche” (Coleman) Glassel.

 Kenneth graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1954. He proudly served in the United States Army Reserves for many years. He worked for Mercer Chevrolet in Valley Falls as a bookkeeper, and Clark Chevrolet in Holton for the Parts Department. He also worked for Sunflower Ammunition Plant in Eudora, KS. Kenneth retired from Goodyear after 30 years of service. His favorite pastime for more than 50 years was spending time on his farm raising cattle.

 He was a member of the St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Kenneth married Darlene Huerter on July 7, 1959 in Wetmore, KS. They celebrated over 62 years of marriage.

He enjoyed spending time with his family and was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Survivors include his wife, Darlene, of the home; a son, Kevin Glassel (Laurie); 2 daughters, Rhonda Kearney (Rob) and Janell Watson (Rodney) all of Valley Falls; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Blanche; a sister, Myra Pemberton; 4 brothers, Robert, Virgil, Lowell, and infant baby brother Glassel, and a son, Brad Glassel (1985).

 Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, November 16, 2021 at the St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Valley Falls, KS. Burial will follow to St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. A rosary will be recited at 5:30 P.M. Monday, November 15, 2021 at the St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Valley Falls, KS. The family will receive friends following the rosary until 7:30 P.M. Memorial contributions may be made to the Valley Falls Athletic Association or St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Catholic Church c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Donna M. Faller, 87, of Falls City, NE, passed away November 6, 2021 at Falls City. She was born December 6, 1933 at Falls City to Robert and Lorena (Castan) Pruesse.

She married Cecil Faller on May 9, 1954 at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Donna was raised at Falls City, baptized and confirmed at Zion United Church of Christ Church and was church pianist and organist there a number of years. She graduated from Falls City High School in 1952 and began working at Richardson County Bank. When married the couple made their home in Falls City and in 1960 moved to the Faller family farm. She took employment with Wiltse Law Officer in 1968 and worked there until 1983 when she became employed by Dorr Funeral Home. She retired in 2015. She was a member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (20th & Towle St.) and was church organist for a number of years, a member of Miriam-Esther Circle of the church and held various offices in the LCW as well as serving on the church council for six years.

She is survived by her husband, Cecil of Falls City, children, Brad and his wife Regina of Falls City, Nancy Niedfeldt and her husband David of Beatrice, grandchildren, Ryan Ross, Jordan (Kim) Faller, Logan (Melissa) Faller, Austin (Katelin) Niedfeldt, Emily (Derrick) Vanover all of Omaha, great-grandchildren, Kaden Ross, Greyson and Madison Niedfeldt. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Her funeral will be held on Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at 10:30 AM at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor Amalia Spruth-Janssen officiating. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery.

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

The family prefers memorials be made to her church.

Cora L. Genail, 103, of Atchison, KS, passed away Friday, November 5, 2021, at Gran Villa nursing home, Atchison, KS.

Funeral service will be 2:00 PM, Wednesday, November 10, 2021, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Atchison, KS, with Rev. Robert Ziegler officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens, Cemetery. The family will receive friends 1:00 to 2:00 PM prior to the service at the church. Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran School Sponsor Plan and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Cora was born October 12, 1918, the daughter of Frederick and Elizabeth (Vogel) Bierbaum. She graduated from Atchison High School in 1936. Cora had worked in the ship yards when they lived in Portland OR and then Wilson’s Poultry in Atchison and was a clerk for Kresgie Variety Store for twenty-two years as well a homemaker. She was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, a charter member of the Priscilla Guild and LWML. She enjoyed bowling, sewing quilt tops, having made over two thousand of them and Royals baseball.

Cora married William D. Genail on June 28, 1938, in Troy, KS; he preceded her in death on August 6, 1987. Survivors include three daughters; Sandra Green, Atchison, KS, Marsha and Edward Durkin, Bartlesville, OK and Vicky and William Godding, Kingston, OK, three sons; Bill and Anelle Genail, Atchison, KS, Gary and Linda Genail, Atchison, KS, Larry Genail, Atchison, KS, thirteen grandchildren, twenty-three great grandchildren and eleven great great grandchildren.

She was also preceded by her parents, two sons; Dwayne and Wayne Genail, two brothers; Frederick and Carl (twin of Cora) Bierbaum, three sisters; Magdalene Stubinger, Edna Cecil and Marie Shepherd and a son-in-law, Gene A. Green.

Benedict “Ben” Heideman, 82, of Corning, Kansas died on Monday, November 8, 2021, at Country Place Living in Seneca, due to complications of Covid-19.

Ben was born on March 8, 1939 to Henry F. and Catherine C. Heideman in Baileyville, Kansas. Ben attended Sacred Heart Grade School until the family moved to the Corning community; when he attended St Patrick’s Grade School and graduated from the 8th grade, and in 1957 he graduated from Corning High School.

Ben served in the Kansas National Guard from May 1, 1960 until he was discharged in March 29, 1966; he served six months of active duty. Ben and his brother, Ray, were farming partners on the family farm; and on weekends he was helped by his brother, Charlie on the family farm. Ben was a farmer and a stockman; he also had a dairy operation, he simply loved the farm life. Ben enjoyed bowling, playing cards, visiting with family and watching local youth athletics, KSU, the Royals and the Chiefs.

He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning, the St. Patrick’s Cemetery Committee and St. Patrick’s Church Council (serving as a past president). He was a life time member of the Seneca Knights of Columbus Council 1769, where he was active in many aspects to the organization, he called Bingo and served on the building committee for the Knights of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Sr. Karen Heideman O.S.B and Virginia Runnebaum; brothers, Charlie, Tony, Jerry and Ray; and brothers-in-law, Vern Runnebaum, Buck Reed and Charles Gress.

He is survived by his brothers, Bob (Eleanor) Heideman of Seneca and Gene (Marilyn) Heideman of Topeka; his sisters, Ann Gress of Seneca, Carolyn (Jerry) Osterhaus of Seneca and Rita Reed of Topeka;  sisters-in-law, Anna Marie Heideman of Corning and Alice Heideman of Seneca; nieces and nephews; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 P.M. on Wednesday, November 10th at the Lauer

Funeral Home in Seneca. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, November 11, 2021 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning, with burial in the church cemetery.

Memorials are for St. Patrick’s Church and/or NCTC in Seneca, sent in care of the family.

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

Walter George Boyd, 62, of Wetmore, passed away on Sunday, November 7, 2021 at the Holton Community Hospital.

He was born September 2, 1959 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the son of Edwin and Georgia Beasley Boyd.  Walt graduated from El Dorado High School in Albuquerque in 1977.  He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, attended the University of Southern Colorado in Pueblo, New Mexico State University in Albuquerque, the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, and received his Master’s Degree in theatre from Kansas State University in Manhattan. 

Walt had worked as a furniture salesman for Slumberland Furniture and Kansas Furniture Mart in Topeka.  He also was the Special Education van driver for U.S.D. 501 in Topeka.

He had been a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Holton until it closed.  He was a fixture of the Topeka Civic Theatre, Helen Hocker Theatre and Ad Astra Theatre, all in Topeka, and Theatre Atchison.  In all, he acted in well over 200 shows, not counting his college performances.  Walt loved the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals, and the Dallas Cowboys.  He also followed Nascar, especially Jeff Gordon, and he was an old movie buff.

He married Linda Rose Lovell on June 24, 1995 at the First Presbyterian Church in Holton.  She survives, of the home.

Walt was preceded in death by his parents and a half-brother, Robert.

Other survivors include two step-sons, Benjamin Benton LaMee and his wife Vanessa Raine, Memphis, TN and Adam Michael LaMee, Seneca; and a sister, Debra Batts, Albuquerque, NM.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 12th at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Holton.  Cremation will follow the service.  Walt will lie in state after noon on Wednesday at the funeral home where visitation will be from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Nemaha County Training Center, Theatre Atchison or the Topeka Civic Theatre and Academy, and may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 1034, Holton, KS  66436. On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com 

Gary Lee Meader, 85, passed away on Sunday, November 7, 2021 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 1, 1936 to Elmo and Eleanor (Hinton) Meader in Pawnee City, Nebraska.

He attended a country school through the 8th grade. Then, he graduated from Pawnee City High School in 1954. In 1955, he moved to Atchison, Kansas for work and met the love of his life, Helen Lewman. They were married on July 13, 1957. They moved to Seneca, Kansas in 1959 where they raised their four sons.

After retirement, Gary and Helen moved to Sabetha, Kansas in 2014.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Elmo and Eleanor; a son, Douglas; and a sister, Joyce Meader.

Gary is survived by his wife, Helen, of 64 years of Sabetha; sons, Rick (Donna) of Topeka, Kansas, Brian (Tony) of Kansas City, Missouri, and Mike (Beth) of Sabetha; two granddaughters, Kimberly (Dylan) and Kaitlyn; and one grandson, Wyatt.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, November 12, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha, Kansas. Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 11, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary. Interment will be at the Seneca Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sabetha Community Hospital and Apostolic Christian Home and sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Eldon William Rokey, 97, died on Sunday, November 7, 2021 at his home in Sabetha, Kansas surrounded by his family. He was born on January 25, 1924 to Peter and Emma (Strahm) Rokey on the family farm, one mile north of the Sabetha Lake. He graduated from Sabetha High School in 1943. Eldon was drafted into the U.S. Army where he served as a military policeman during World War II. He served in France and Berlin in 1945 and was later called to serve in the Korean War.

Eldon was united in marriage to Evelyn Ruth Halbert on April 14, 1949. Five children were born to this union.

Eldon was a beloved member of the Sabetha community. He was a U.S. Postal Service mail carrier for 28 years in Sabetha and developed many friendships throughout the community. Also, he was a founding and active member of the Sabetha V.F.W. Post #7285. He loved music and dancing with his favorites being jazz and big band. A fun and creative man, he enjoyed wood working and other various projects which he would gift to family and friends. Also, he enjoyed fishing and hunting.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Evelyn; and siblings, Viola Mishler, Andrew Rokey, Pearl Williamson, Alice Herrmann, Bert Rokey, Ollie Rokey, Ruby Berkley, and Irene Mendenhall.

Surviving are his five children, Lisa Lyons of Sabetha, Kyle (Lisa) Rokey of Des Moines, Iowa, Lori Rokey of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Scott (Theresa) Rokey of Baileyville, Kansas, and Paige (Susan) Rokey of Sabetha; ten grandchildren, Shanna (Meg) Rokey, John (Debbie) Lyons, Kelly (Chet) Ford, Tyler (Sarah) Rokey, Ian (Sam) Robinson, Neil Robinson, Catherine (Zach) Mee, Lexie Rokey, Piper Rokey, and Irish Rokey; five great-grandchildren, Mache and Farrah Ford, Emmet and Delilah Lyons, and Bella Rose Robinson.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, November 11, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha, Kansas. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to service time at the funeral home. Interment will be at the Sabetha Cemetery with full military honors conducted by the Sabetha V.F.W. Post #7285. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sabetha V.F.W. Post #7285 and sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. A Celebration of Life gathering will follow the services at the Sabetha V.F.W. Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Jimmy Allen Robbins, 77, of Holton, KS, passed away Friday, November 5, 2021 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka. He was born June 8, 1944 in Holton, KS, the son of Alfred J. and Ida Mae (Moore) Robbins.

In early years, Jimmy worked for saw mills in Topeka and helped his brother-in-law, Fred Stoldt and brother, Billie Robbins pouring and finishing concrete. For over 30 years, Jimmy worked at the Holton Cemetery, maintaining and mowing.

Jimmy married Alice Irene Heiniger on January 21, 1977 in Holton, KS; she preceded him in death on January 18, 2011. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Ida Mae Robbins and daughter, Yvonne Cox.

 Survivors include his 2 sons, James Robbins of Denison, KS and Jimmie Streeter of Iola, KS; daughter, Shelly Robbins of Holton, KS; 2 sisters, Karen Shea (Fred) and Patty Robbins both of Holton, KS; brother, Billie Robbins of Denison, KS and grandson, Avery Robbins.

 Graveside Memorial Service will be 3:30 p.m. Friday, November 12, 2021 at the Holton Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Jimmy Robbins Memorial Fund to help with expenses 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.

John Wallace Hervey, 90, of Sabetha, Kansas died Saturday, November 6, 2021 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha. John was born February 7, 1931 on the family farm in Ogden, Kansas to George F. Hervey, Sr. and Minnie M. (Haase) Hervey.

John grew up in the Meriden and Hoyt, Kansas areas. He attended Rock Creek High School until it closed. Then, he transferred and graduated from Meriden High School in 1948. John served in the Army in Korea from 1951-1953. After his discharge, he worked at the Colmery-O’Neil VA Medical Center in Topeka, Kansas where he met his wife, Roma. He married Roma Lea Bauman on August 7, 1960 at the First United Methodist Church in Sabetha. To this union three children were born Sally, Gerald, and Melissa. They lived on the family farm for 61 years before declining health required moving to the Apostolic Christian Home in April of 2021. John raised cattle and hogs and they were partners in the Sabetha Livestock Auction for many years. After retiring, John spent many hours making wooden trucks, tractors and other farm toys, as well as shelves and other items which he gifted to family members, friends, and many toys were sent to charity.

John was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Sabetha, past member of Kansas Livestock Association, and Nemaha County Farm Bureau. He was also a member of the Sabetha Saddle Club serving as President for several years and he enjoyed riding in the drill team.

John was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Opal Stuessie and Shirley Richards.

John is survived by his wife Roma; children Sally (Jim) Kisssel of Wetmore, Kansas, Gerald (Cass) Hervey of Sabetha, and Melissa Harberts of Larchwood, Iowa; grandchildren, Jamie (Matt) Grollmes, Jason (Casey) Kissel, Katie Hervey, Wyatt Hervey, Tucker (Sarah) Hervey, Emmett Hervey, Nicole (Ben) McCray, Mindy (Brady) Van Sant, Jessica (Riley) Klinger, and Becca Harberts; 5 great-grandchildren with three more on the way; brothers, George Hervey, Jr., Dan (Sue) Hervey, and Don (LeAnn) Hervey; and sister, Elain Ellenwood.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to service time at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sabetha FFA Chapter sent in care of the Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Eva Elizabeth (Davis) Tupa, 88, of rural Humboldt, Nebraska, passed away into the arms of our loving Savior and God on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, at her home in Lincoln, Nebraska.  She was born on January 12, 1933, in Rock Port, Missouri and later graduated from Hamburg High School in Hamburg, Iowa with the class of 1952.  Eva was united in marriage to Loren Tupa and the couple made their home on a farm southwest of Humboldt, Nebraska for the majority of their married life together.  Eva is preceded in death by her parents and siblings.

She is survived by her loving husband Loren Tupa of rural Humboldt, NE; and other relatives and friends.

Graveside Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 9, 2021, at the Humboldt Cemetery in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Eric Biehl officiating.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. on Monday, November 8, 2021, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska.

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

 Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

Edward LeMoyne Dodson, 81, of Denison, KS, passed away November 2, 2021 at the Onaga Hospital in Onaga, KS.

LeMoyne, or Lee, as he preferred to be called, was born April 7, 1940 at Christs Hospital in Topeka, KS. The son of Carl E. and Evelyn (Buehler) Dodson.

He was a lifelong resident of Denison, graduating at Denison Rural High School in 1958.

Following graduation, Lemoyne enlisted in the National Guard in 1961. He spent his enlistment time as a member of the Holton based unit, the 137th Infantry in Company B, before being Honorably Discharged on 1968, just weeks before his unit was to join forces with Colorado to be sent to Vietnam.

 LeMoyne was a dairyman for over 30 years, working along side his dad. He was also a self-employed carpenter, working with his good friend, Gary McCrory, or with others who needed help. Often times, he would take on projects on his own, with the help from different family members or friends. One such project was the remodeling of his son, Jim’s home north of Holton and the Playhouse he built for his grandchildren.

 He also worked at Goodyear in Topeka for a short time. His real love was his family and his farm north of Denison. Every morning he enjoyed driving up there and checking on the renter’s cattle, as well as just driving and checking fences and just enjoying taking it all in, with his wife and dog beside him. It was his pride and joy!

On May 3, 1964, LeMoyne married Arlene Wood, his high school sweetheart; at the Denison Bible Church, where he was a lifetime member. He and Arlene celebrated over 57 years together.

One main recent highlight in LeMoyne’s life was the completion of being able to recognize and establish the site of the Dodson Hill Grade School. This had been a special project for him for years because his ancestor, Alfred Dodson, had owned the property, but donated part of it for the school to be built in the late 1800’s, known as District #30.  In July 2020, we celebrated as the plaque and stand were erected on the original grounds of the former grade school. This always gave him pleasure as he would drive past it.

LeMoyne was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Evelyn Dodson and his only brother, Orville Dodson of Onaga on September 20, 2021.

 He is survived by his wife, Arlene of the home; two sons, Jim and wife Pam of Holton, KS and Joel and wife Jane of Caney, KS; two very special grandchildren, Jordan and Bailey Dodson of Caney, KS; two nephews, Lyndall Dodson and wife Karen of Kearney, MO and Daryl Dodson and wife Gina of Liberal, MO and one sister-in-law, Melba Dodson of Onaga, KS. Along with many friends and relatives who will miss him greatly and his love for telling stories about the past.

          ***Until we meet again, I’ll look after the farm**

Graveside Service will be 10:30 A.M. Friday, November 12, 2021 at the Netawaka Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 5:00-7:00 P.M. Thursday, November 11, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, KS. LeMoyne will lie in state Tuesday and Wednesday at Mercer Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Denison Bible Church or to the Netawaka Cemetery c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave the family a special message please visit www.mercerfunealhomes.com.

Laura Marie Cameron, of Summerfield, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, November 3rd, 2021, at her home. 

Laura was born February 26, 1964, to John E and Rosalie M (Mitchell) Meybrunn in Marysville, KS. 

Mass of Christian Burial, 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Summerfield, Kansas, Officiating Father James Shaughnessy.  

Visitation on Monday, November 8, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.

Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Monday at Holy Family Catholic Church, Summerfield, Kansas.  

Internment at Mission Creek, rural Liberty, Nebraska.

Memorials to family choice. On line condolence may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com.

Services entrusted to wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska.

William Michael ‘Mike’ Richey, 72, of Atchison, KS, passed away Tuesday, November 2, 2021 at Providence Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

Funeral Services will be 2:30 pm, Saturday, November 6, 2021 at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, 800 Kansas Ave, Atchison, KS, with Rev. Robert Ziegler, officiating. Burial will follow in the Sumner Cemetery, south of Atchison. Family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Friday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, American Cancer Society or Trinity Lutheran Church. Words of remembrance and sympathy may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

William Michael Richey was born on August 10, 1949 in Buchanan County, Missouri, the son of William R. and Carmen F. (Jolencia) Richey. Mike attended the Catholic Schools in St. Joseph, MO. Mike entered the US Marine Corps on May 30, 1972 and served until May 29, 1976. Mike was proud of his military service to his country and was proud to be a Marine. After being honorably discharged, Mike worked for Rockwell Steel Foundry and Pillsbury Flour Mill, both in Atchison. Mike then worked for the Department of the Army at Fort Leavenworth as a Construction Representative Directorate of Installation Support from 1987 until he retired in 2015. Mike was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Atchison, and the NRA.

Mike and Anna L. Hundley were married on August 31, 1977 in Leavenworth, KS. Anna preceded Mike in death on December 7, 2016 after 39 years of marriage. Mike was also preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Brandon Ross.

Survivors include two daughters, Schella (Kenneth) Servaes and Brenda (Jason) Thomas, both of Atchison; son, Gary (Michelle) Sandy, Wichita, KS; eight grandchildren, Amber Kelley, Melissa Servaes, Chad Servaes, Jeremy Ross, Chelsea Ross, Ashely Venter, Aarika Moore and Travis Sandy; 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Theresa Brown, Mexico, MO; brother, Brian Richey, St. Joseph; step-father, Dave Jefferson, Mexico, MO.

Terry Lynn Meyer, 68, of Soldier, KS, passed away Tuesday, November 2, 2021 at Advent Health Care Center in Overland Park, KS. He was born April 16, 1953 in Axtell, KS, the son of Frank H. Meyer, Jr. and Mildred A. (Olberding) Meyer.

Terry graduated from B & B Baileyville High School in 1971. He worked for over 32 years at Goodyear Tire Company, retiring in 2012. Terry was a volunteer fire fighter for Soldier Fire Department.

 He married Patricia Anne Vogelsberg on October 27, 1973; she preceded him in death on January 11, 2011. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Mildred Meyer and 2 brothers, Roy and Glen Meyer.

 Survivors include his daughter, Jaime Hudson (Joe) of Grain Valley, MO; 2 sons, Brian Meyer of Soldier, KS and Scott Meyer (Fate) of Meriden, KS; 6 grandchildren, Gehrig, Hailey, Taden, Tanner, Colton and Brody; 4 brothers, Gary Meyer (Nancy), Dan Meyer (Vickie), Mark Meyer (Brenda) and Alan Meyer (Joan) and a sister-in-law, Sue Meyer.

 Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Soldier Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Monday evening. Terry will lie in state beginning Sunday afternoon. Memorials may be given to the Soldier Cemetery 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.

Randall Dean Korthanke, 70, passed away Sunday, October 31st, 2021, in his home with family by his side, after a difficult battle with cancer.

Randy was born in Sabetha, April 27th, 1951. He was one of four children born to Robert “Bob” and Verneal Oldfield Korthanke.

Born and raised in the area, CK, as he was known by many, attended Robinson schools prior to graduating from Hiawatha High School in 1969. He later attended Highland Junior College. His true passion came from working and learning alongside his father farming and raising livestock; a family tradition Randy would continue until his retirement in 2020.

Among his many interests Randy enjoyed golfing, bowling, and watching Chiefs and Kansas State football games. He particularly enjoyed spending time with wife Karen, riding their Harley, traveling, especially to Mexico, and attending Renaissance Festivals. Above all he valued spending time with family.

Randy is survived by his wife Karen, and his children Kimberly Korthanke, Elizabeth Nicole Dunn (Justin), Candice Schulz (Christopher), and Christopher Nelson (Katrina), His grandchildren, Alana, Bailey, Camdyn, Chole, Adelynn, Liam, Jackson, Charlotte, and baby Dunn, due February 2022. Brothers, Steve Korthanke (Linda), Stanley Korthanke (LaDonna) and brother-in-law Chuck Weaver.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Marsha, and grandson Landyn.

Randy’s family and friends are invited to A Celebration Life on Friday, November 5, 2021, at 10:30 a.m., at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha. The family will also host a visitation on Thursday, November 4, 2021, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha.

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

Amelia Ann Cawthorn, 97, of Atchison, KS died on Friday, October 29, 2021, at Amberwell, Hiawatha, KS.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 5, 2021, at Trinity Lutheran Church with Rev. Robert Ziegler officiating. Burial will follow in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Atchison. Visitation will be from 10:00 until time of service at the church. The Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, 800 Kansas Ave, Atchison, KS is handling the arrangements. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Trinity Lutheran Church Building & Grounds or the Trinity Lutheran School Grant Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences and remembrances may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Amelia was born on November 30, 1923, in Atchison, KS the daughter of William E. and Anna P. (Braun) Gerhardt. She graduated from Atchison High School in 1941 and attended Atchison Business College. Amelia worked as a secretary for Blish-Mize Company for over 47 years retiring in 1988. She was an active member of the Trinity Lutheran Church serving as past president of the Altar Guild, member of the Properties Committee, Rebekah Circle, LWML, sang in the choir, was a Kennedy Caller and was manager of the church’s bookstore. She enjoyed yard work and being outside, hand work, making hand towels for baptisms, was Treasurer for Sunday School and a member of Pastor’s Adult Bible Class.

She was married to Sherman A. “Duke” Cawthorn on August 24, 1963, at Trinity Lutheran Church. Mr. Cawthorn preceded her in death on January 9, 2001. Survivors include her caregiver, Terry Mills, Atchison, a stepdaughter, Phyllis West, Topeka, KS, step granddaughter, Robyn West, and a cousin, Lois Vowels, Atchison. Her parents, husband Duke, and a sister, Anna Louise Gerhardt preceded her in death.

Amelia Ann Cawthorn, 97, of Atchison, KS died on Friday, October 29, 2021, at Amberwell, Hiawatha, KS. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 5, 2021, at Trinity Lutheran Church with Rev. Robert Ziegler officiating. Burial will follow in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Atchison. Visitation will be from 10:00 until time of service at the church. The Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, 800 Kansas Ave, Atchison, KS is handling the arrangements. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Trinity Lutheran Church Building & Grounds or the Trinity Lutheran School Grant Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences and remembrances may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Amelia was born on November 30, 1923, in Atchison, KS the daughter of William E. and Anna P. (Braun) Gerhardt. She graduated from Atchison High School in 1941 and attended Atchison Business College. Amelia worked as a secretary for Blish-Mize Company for over 47 years retiring in 1988. She was an active member of the Trinity Lutheran Church serving as past president of the Altar Guild, member of the Properties Committee, Rebekah Circle, LWML, sang in the choir, was a Kennedy Caller and was manager of the church’s bookstore. She enjoyed yard work and being outside, hand work, making hand towels for baptisms, was Treasurer for Sunday School and a member of Pastor’s Adult Bible Class. She was married to Sherman A. “Duke” Cawthorn on August 24, 1963, at Trinity Lutheran Church. Mr. Cawthorn preceded her in death on January 9, 2001.

Survivors include her caregiver, Terry Mills, Atchison, a stepdaughter, Phyllis West, Topeka, KS, step granddaughter, Robyn West, and a cousin, Lois Vowels, Atchison. Her parents, husband Duke, and a sister, Anna Louise Gerhardt preceded her in death.

Kevin Daniel Linck, 69, of rural Robinson, Kansas passed away October 29, 2021, at the Mosaic Medical Center in St Joseph, Missouri.

Kevin was born on August 8, 1952, in Highland, Kansas, to Bernard and Barbara (Soden) Linck. On March 2, 1974 Kevin married his sweetheart Karen Pierson at the Willis Christian Church. From their love they had five children.

Kevin and his siblings were raised on a farm outside Everest were he attended grade school and then graduated from Horton High School in 1970. From there he attended Northeast Kansas Technical School in Atchison where he received a certificate in Auto Mechanics. He also attended one year at Manhattan Christian College.

Kevin and Karen spent most their years together living in Everest and then Robinson. Over the years Kevin spent time as a mechanic, driving a school bus for South Brown County Schools, as a member of the Everest/Horton Jaycees, and the Horton and Robinson Boy Scouts. Kevin held various positions within the church as well as being involved at Mission Lake Christian Camp in Horton, for more than 30 years.

Kevin was preceded in death by his parents and nephew Nathanial Linck.

Survivors include his wife, Karen; sons, Kim (Lisa) of Manhattan, Kirt of Robinson, Kelly (Becky) of Hiawatha; daughters, Keisha (Brandon) Statler of Holton, and Kandace Linck of Holton; grandchildren, Macoy, Pierson, Eleanor, Slader, William, Allen, Margaret, Ruby, Aaron, Alyssa (Nelver), Alex, Ashton, Kohl, Jackson; one great grandchild, Noelle; brothers, Barry (Thelma) of Havensville, Randy (Cynthia) of Horton, Dennis (Nancy) of Everest; one sister Angela (Troy) Carlton of Omaha, NE; several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established at Manhattan Christian College to honor Kevin’s commitment to Christian principles and to benefit scholarships of those preparing for ministry, which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 6634.

A celebration of Kevin’s Eternal Life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 8, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha.  Tim Champ of Freedom Hospice will officiate.  Inurnment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, Robinson.

The family will meet with friends Sunday at the funeral home from 3 until 5 p.m.

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

Sherman Arden Colglazier, age 81 of Shubert, passed away Sunday, October 31, 2021, in Falls City, Nebraska.

Survivors include his children Nikki Colglazier of Auburn, Jerry Colglazier of Nemaha, Marjorie (John) Hoelting of Bonner Springs, KS; grandchildren Melissa Kirkendall, Tyler Kirkendall, Jared Kirkendall, John Hoelting, Bryce Hoelting, and Josie Hoelting; numerous great-grandchildren; sister Doris Quigley of Shawnee, KS; other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be Saturday, November 6, 10:00 a.m. at the Shubert Christian Church in Shubert. Burial will follow in the Prairie Union Cemetery near Shubert. Visitation will be at the funeral home in Auburn Friday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 6:00 to 8:00.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral of Auburn.

Betty Jane Lull, 82, of Falls City, Nebraska passed away on Friday, October 22, 2021, at the Falls City Care Center in Falls City.  She was born on February 7, 1939 in a farmhouse outside of Verdon, Nebraska to Leo and Viola (Wiggins) Massey. Betty enjoyed school and helping her sister Martha take care of her kids – even taking one of her nieces to school with her one day for show and tell. She graduated from Dawson High School in 1956. 

Always the hard worker, Betty raised 5 children as a single mom, while working at Campbell Soup in Tecumseh in the 60’s and 70’s. In 1977, she moved her family to Falls City so she could work for The Falls City Chamber of Commerce. Once her kids were out of the house Betty decided to move to Portland, Oregon. While there she worked for an insurance company and when she decided to return to Nebraska, another insurance company in Omaha. In 1999, Betty retired to Falls City.

While her kids were growing up Betty was considered a pretty good cook, making most things from scratch, including the fresh baked bread that her kids and their friends enjoyed.  She enjoyed sewing and crocheting, once making a special doll for her oldest granddaughter.  Betty was an avid reader, crossword puzzle and Jeopardy fan. She was a lady who loved life especially springtime when she could smell all the blooming flowers. Her constant companion in later years was her cockatiel, Precious.

Betty was preceded in death by her father Leo Massey, mother Viola Carmichael, step-father Andrew Carmichael, son Robbin, daughter Peggy, sisters Martha Percival & Sally Percival and brother Ted Massey.

Betty is survived by her son Glenn Lull (Eva) of Wichita, KS, daughter Linda Lull of Marysville, KS, son John Lull of St Joseph, MO, daughter-in-law Chan-La Lull of Portland, OR and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends. She will be greatly missed.

A Graveside Inurnment will be held at noon on Monday, November 8, 2021 at the Steele Cemetery in Falls City, Nebraska with Father Kenneth Hoesing officiating.

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

Condolences can be left online at www.hallfuneral.net

Violet May Dotson, 88, of Humboldt, Nebraska, passed away into the arms of our loving Savior and God on Sunday, October 17, 2021, at the Colonial Acres Nursing Home in Humboldt, Nebraska surrounded by her loved ones.  She was born on July 8, 1933, in Vermillion, Kansas to Lester and Myrtle Mae (Marvin) Bestwick. 

She married Delbert L. Rose and to this union seven children were born, Sandra, Vicky, Linda, Larry, Pam, Jeff and Kim.  Violet later married Robert Dotson on April 1, 1977.

Violet had a career as a homemaker and managed and owned several restaurants in the surrounding areas, including the Log Cabin in Seneca, KS, The Bar in Home City, KS, The Camp in Humboldt, One Stop Cafe in Falls City and Vi's Cafe in Centralia, KS. She was well known for her excellent cooking skills and making sure no one went hungry.  Violet and Robert retired in Vermillion, KS where she spent endless hours canning fruits and vegetables.  

She is survived by her children, Sandra Penn of Topeka, KS, Vicky Lynch of Humboldt, Linda Rose of Providence, KY, Jeff Rose of Council Bluffs, IA and Kim Rose of Crete, 18 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, brother, Roy Bestwick of Jonesboro, GA and a large extended family and an abundance of friends.

Violet was preceded in death by her parents, children, Larry Rose and Pam Gouty, husbands, Delbert Rose and Robert Dotson, grandchildren, Alex Rose, Dakota Dettmann and Tyra Rose and great-granddaughter, Alicia Westbrook.  

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 6, 2021 at the Wherry Mortuary in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Howard Blecha officiating.  

Condolences can be shared on www.wherrymortuary.com.

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

Michael James Housh, 40, of Lawrence, KS, died Thursday, Oct. 28th at his home in Lawrence, KS.

Funeral services will be held at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, Nov. 3rd, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Rev. Cyd Stein, Pastor of the United Methodist Church officiating. Visitation with the family will follow the service until 8:30 pm at the funeral home. The body will be cremated following the visitation and service and a private family interment later. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Wagon Wheel Memorial Campership Fund or Atchison Humane Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences and remembrances to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Michael was born on Nov. 25, 1980, in Atchison, KS the son of Gary and Patty (Laipple) Housh. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1999 and attended Highland Technical School earning an Associates Degree in Computer Science and a Computer Technician Degree from Northeast Kansas Technical School. Michael owned and operated his own computer company called DB Duality, in Lawrence, KS working as the I.T. person for several different companies in Lawrence and Kansas City.

Michael was an Eagle Scout and had earned the rank of Fire Builder in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say, the Pony Express Council Honorary Camping Society. He had attended the High Adventure Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, and enjoyed camping, being outdoors, biking, cars, and stereos. Michael especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and his best friend Budro who went everywhere with him.

Survivors include his mother, Patty Housh, Atchison, KS, his brother Marc (Angie) Housh, Newell, IA, a sister Megan Housh, Effingham, KS, a niece Colby Housh, Effingham, two nephew Vernon Siard, Lancaster, KS and Jarid Siard, Horton, KS and his dog and BFF Budro and several aunts, uncles and cousins. His dad and grandparents preceded him in death.