Pastor Ronald Stanley Ahlgren, 76, of Holton, KS, passed away Thursday, June 29, 2023 at his home with family by his side. Ron fought a courageous battle with cancer. He was born January 10, 1947 in Litchfield, MN, the son of Charles Stanley and Lucille (Radunz) Ahlgren.

Ron graduated from Dassel High School in MN in 1964. He graduated from Manhattan Christian College in 1987, Summit Theological Seminary earning his Bachelor- Degree in Sacred Literature in 1989 and he also graduated from Kentucky Christian College in 1989 with his Master- Degree.

He was a minister for Christian churches located in Moose Lake, MN, Baxter, MN, Circleville, KS, Viroqua, WI, Hill City, KS, Worthington, MN and currently in Soldier, KS for over 47 years.

Ron married Barbara Klarstrom on November 4, 1967 in Darwin, MN; they celebrated over 55 years of marriage.

Everyone loved Ron- sense of humor and his love for people. He loved to play the accordion and sing. He loved spending time with his grandkids and great-grandkids, building things in the woodshop, and he loved to preach! He continued preaching even while in the hospital to every nurse, doctor, and caregiver that was a part of his day.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara of the home; daughter, Lorilee Thomas (Chris) of Whiting, KS; son, Tim Ahlgren (Tanya) of Circleville, KS; sister, Joanne West (Ron) of Joplin, MO; 4 brothers, Richard Ahlgren (Jeanne), Bob Ahlgren (Connie), Steve Ahlgren (Pam) and Galen Ahlgren (Sue) all of Minnesota; sister-in-law, Mary Ahlgren of MN; 6 grandchildren, Corey Thomas (Allison), Austen Thomas (Kaley), Payton Thomas, Tyler Ahlgren, Kyle Ahlgren and Jackson Ahlgren and 3 great-grandchildren, Adlee, Cohen and Hayes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stan and Lucille Ahlgren and a brother, David Ahlgren.

Memorial Service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at the Soldier Christian Church in Soldier, KS. Private family inurnment will be at a later date in Minnesota. Memorials may be given to the Soldier Christian Church Scholarship Fund, or to Peace On Earth Ministries (P.O.E.M.) 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.

Floyd Eugene Oswald, 89, life-long farmer of Muscotah, KS passed away Thursday, June 29, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family.

Floyd was born February 24, 1934, in Horton, KS the son of Oliver Henry and Alice (Wenger) Oswald. He attended ACCHS in Effingham and graduated in 1952. Floyd married Alleta Frommer on August 26, 1956, at the Coal Creek United Methodist Church. Together they celebrated 66 years of marriage.

Floyd lived a full life and made many friends along the way. He served as a sergeant in the Kansas Army National Guard- 130th Division at Horton, Kansas from 1954 -1963. Floyd worked at LFM Foundry - now Bradken - for seven years while farming full time. He was an avid livestock and grain farmer and steward of the land. Countless hours were spent on his bulldozer putting in waterways, terraces, and ponds throughout the county as a soil conservation contractor. Floyd had a passion for Farmall tractors. He spent many hours in his garden, sharing much of his produce with senior citizens at Effingham, friends, and neighbors. Several years he enjoyed surprising the children of the neighborhood dressed as Santa Claus. For 28 years he served on the Kapioma Township Board as treasurer. He served nine years on the board of directors for Jackson Farmer- Inc. Floyd always wanted to be a county commissioner and his wish came true when he was elected as Atchison County Commissioner in 2000. He served two consecutive 4-year terms.

Floyd liked to help others and would often volunteer whenever he could. He served on various church boards and attended the Larkinburg Christian Church.

He is survived by his wife, Alleta, of the home; his three children, Donna Oswald of Atchison, Gregg (Terri) Oswald of Muscotah, and Ronda (Ray) DeLay of Holton; six grandchildren; Rachel (Kyle) Haught, Jackson DeLay (fiancé Jessie Chastain), Paige DeLay, Michael Oswald, Ashlea (Jonathan) Fedler, and James Oswald; and one great-grandchild. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Gary Bottorff. He was preceded in death by his parents, his older brother and sister-in-law Roger and Vivian Oswald, and his younger sister Jessie Bottorff.

Family visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 2, 2023, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home in Atchison, Kansas. Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 3, 2023, at the Becker Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Armstrong and Rev. Johnny Williams officiating. Burial will follow in the Powhattan Cemetery, Powhattan, Kansas where his parents and maternal grandparents are buried. Memorials in honor of Mr. Oswald are suggested to the Larkinburg Christian Church, Powhattan Cemetery, or the Muscotah Cancer Support Group and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Words of comfort for the family may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

The family would like to thank NEK Multi-County Home Health and Hospice for their compassion and care.

John B. Rethman Jr., 89, of Seneca, died on June 29, 2023, at the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca, with his family by his side.

JR was born April 11, 1934 in Seneca, to John and Marcella Rettele Rethman. He attended Old Lincoln Country School 1-2nd grade. When it closed, he transferred to Saints Peter & Paul school and attended 3rd-8th grade, graduating from 8th grade in 1948.

After finishing his schooling, he spent seven years working on the family farm until 1955, when he enlisted into the United States Army. He spent 16 weeks at Fort Carson Colorado and 18 months in Detroit Michigan. He was honorably discharged as a Private 1st Class with the Specialized Anti-Aircraft Division on December 12, 1956.

Returning home, he accepted a job with Ben C. Holthaus Farming and Trucking where he worked for two years. At that time, he purchased a canned milk route which he successfully operated for two years. In 1962, he was employed by the Holton Farmers COOP for two years. Then in 1964, he accepted a job for Gudenkauf Rendering, which later became National By-Products, where he performed duties from driving to dispatching. JR retired in 1996 from National By-Products after 35 years of service.

He married Carolyn Koch on March 30, 1959, who preceded him in death in 1998. Together they had two children; David (Debbie) Rethman and Dennis (Monica) Rethman; four grandchildren Kylie (Nick Thompson) Rethman, Cody (Staci) Rethman, Tristan Rethman and Haven Rethman.

JR later married Jerian Stallbaumer on September 5, 1999 at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Seneca. To that union he gained four adult children of Jerian-; Cindy (Dan) Crevier, Lori (Dan) Broxterman, Jan (Rick) Strathman and Rich (Jan) Stallbaumer.

JR was a member of the American Legion Post #21 in Seneca, Kansas for 50+ years and actively served as Honor Guard at numerous military funerals, prepared fried chicken and served meals at many of the “chicken feeds,” and participated in many other activities of the Post.

Pitching Horseshoes was one of the many hobbies he enjoyed. He pitched horseshoes competitively at local and state tournaments. He was also an avid card player, playing with many of his family and friends over the years. JR bowled for many years on both men- and mixed leagues, and enjoyed his time with friends.

Once retired and remarried, JR and Jerian had some wonderful traveling adventures across the country, and snow birding in Arizona during winter months for many years.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Carolyn on April 5, 1998. He was also preceded in death by his parents, John on July 3, 1968, and Marcella on April 1, 1999; four sisters, Juanita Rethman on November 27, 1937, Marceil "Sis" Fouraker on October 11, 1998, Betty Himmelberg on October 30, 2005 and Judy (Walter) Hein on November 1, 2022; and two brothers, Walter Rethman on October 5, 2018 and Tom Rethman on October 21, 1965.

JR is survived by his wife, Jerian of Seneca; two sons, David (Debbie) Rethman of Seneca and Dennis (Monica) Rethman of Lawrence; step-children, Rick (Jan) Stallbaumer of Topeka, Jan (Rick) Strathman of Baileyville, Lori (Dan) Broxterman of Seneca and Cindie (Dan) Crevier of Spring Hill, Kansas. Other survivors are one brother, Wayne Rethman (Marlene), El Dorado; four sisters, Doris Fairfield, Kansas City, Missouri, Mary Sanders (Glenn), Morrill and Carol Karnowski (Dan), LaVistia, Nebraska; 20 grandchildren; and 31 great-grandchildren.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 & 7 PM Sunday, July 2, 2023 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10AM on Monday, July 3, 2023 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca. Burial in the church cemetery.

Memorials can be given in Junior- memory to Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery, and sent in care of the family.

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

Dale Richard Morgan, 75, of Horton, KS and formerly of Whiting, KS, passed away Monday, June 26, 2023 at Anew Healthcare & Rehab of Horton. He was born February 29, 1948 in Holton, KS, the son of Laurel Robert and Geraldine (Schuetz) Morgan.

Dale attended Whiting and Holton Schools. He served in the United States Army, stationed in Germany, during the Vietnam War. Most of his life he was a home health caregiver, but he also worked Security for the Golden Eagle and Sac and Fox Casinos.

He married Cindy Smith and they lived in the Twin Cities in MN, Bella Vista, AR and Hutchinson, KS. Cindy and their son Jim preceded him in death. He was also predeceased by his older brother Jerry, his parents and his Fiancée, Heide Watkins. Heide and Dale resided together on the family farm where Dale grew up.

Survivors include his sister, Dyana Morgan (Stacey) of Holton, KS and his step-children, Marcus, Monica, Zac and Genna and their families. He loved his Grandchildren very much.

Dale was an avid fisherman and hunter; he loved his yearly turkey leg from the Renaissance Festival and took great pride in his son Jimmy- 55 Chevy.

Per Dale- wishes he was cremated and there will be no service. A celebration of his life will be scheduled at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jackson County Historical Society or NEK Multi-County Home Health & Hospice c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Merle Patrick "Wapsah" Jessepe, 61, of Netawaka, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at his sister's home in Hoyt, Kansas.

He was born on September 20, 1961 in Horton, Kansas the son of Nelson and Mary Shipshee Jessepe. Merle worked as a printer for Hallmark cards, in culinary arts, as a carpenter and as a cook for the Kickapoo Senior Citizens. He married Lori Wabnum in Horton, Kansas. He was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Tribe.

Survivors include his wife, Lori Wabnum Jessepe; two sons, Stryder Keo and Sobie Banks; three daughters, Taylor Keo, Lea Mae Jessepe and Jade Jessepe; two sisters, Gaynell Jessepe and Gilreath Aitkens; four brothers, Louie Aitkens, Lyman Shipshee, Kevin Aitkens and Robert Jessepe and numerous grandchildren.

Kennekuk Church Services will be at 6:00 P.M. on Thursday, June 29, 2023 at the Kickapoo Community Building on the Kickapoo Reservation. Burial will be on Friday morning at the Mason Cemetery on the Kickapoo Reservation. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Bettie Jean “Jeanie” (Hundley) Miner, age 92, of Atchison, Kansas, died June 24, 2023, at a care facility in Overland Park, KS. She was born on May 20, 1931, in Atchison, the daughter of Bryant Henry Hundley and Ruby Myrtle (Tull) Hundley. She attended Washington, Sunnyside and Franklin grade schools before graduating from Atchison High School in 1949. She continued her education at Vo-Tech for secretarial training.

Jeanie was most importantly a mother and grandmother. She was a Brownie Scout Leader while raising her children. She managed the Mode O’day, was employed at the Wagon Wheel, and was a custodian at Rockwell, St. Benedict- College and USD 409 until her retirement in 1993. She was a member of the Carol Baptist Church where her and Richard “Dick” Van Wey, were married; they later divorced. She married Gary Martin; they divorced and she married Larry Miner; they divorced. She enjoyed the time she shared with, Bob Barnes, until his passing. She enjoyed cooking, cleaning and preparing large meals for family gatherings, celebrating holidays, staying fashionable by wearing and collecting jewelry, working on word searches but most of all she loved her family; she showed her love the best she could through her actions. She maintained her devotion to God privately and loved reading the bible.

She is survived by her children, Claudia Jo Payne, Horton, KS; Dorothy Jean (Bill) Mercer, Polo, MO; Robert Harold “Bobby” (Cheryl) Van Wey, Atchison, KS; Danette Ruby (Francis) Brownfield, Polo, MO; Dennis Franklin (Ala) Van Wey, Lees Summit, MO; Garie Jean (Scot) Martin Brownrigg, Welda, KS; a brother, Harold L. (Susan) Hundley, St. Joseph, MO; seventeen grandchildren, thirty-two great grandchildren and nineteen great-great grandchildren.

Preceding her in death include her parents; grandchildren, Cinnamon Payne Odonnell, Shana Van Wey, Dennis Andrew Skeen, Traci Lynn Smith; brothers, Henry, Earl “Buster”, Jim and Charlie Bill; sisters, Delia Burge, Dorothy Ola Wilburn and Ruby Cox; and son-in-law, Ray Payne.

A funeral service for friends and family will be Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with Rev. Joseph Hansen officiating. Visitation will be for one hour before the service beginning at 10 a.m. She will be laid to rest at the Sumner Cemetery.

A reception in memory of Sandra Hill, will be held in the meeting room at the Morrill Free Public Library, 413 Oregon Street, Hiawatha, from 1 until 3 p.m. Saturday, July 8, 2023.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Library which may be left in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha, 66434 who is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sandy died June 10, 2023 at Maple Heights Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Hiawatha, at the age of 78.

Among survivors are her sister Lana Reigel (Jim) of Hiawatha.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

A Celebration of Dean Tollefson- Eternal Life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 8, 2023, at Zion Lutheran Church, north of Everest, with Pastor Bud Elliott officiating. Inurnment was at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, nearby. Brown County Veterans Honor Guard will provide military honors.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha, till 5 p.m. Thursday, July 6. The family will meet with friends from 5:30 until 7 p.m. Friday, July 7, and half hour prior to services at Church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

Dean “The Noisy Norwegian” passed away May 15, 2023 in a Topeka hospital after complications from COVID and traumatic brain injury.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Billy Joe Rodvelt, 58, of Horton, Kansas passed peacefully after a 2 year battle with cancer on Sunday June, 25, 2023 at Amberwell Hospital, Hiawatha, with Sister-n-law, Lachelle Hartley, and Aunt, Cathy Neibling at his side.

He was born on October 25,1964 in Hiawatha, Kansas the son of Morris and Norma (Grossner) Rodvelt. He attended ACCHS and graduated in 1983.

Survivors include his Wife, Exzondria Rodvelt of 34 years, Mother, Norma Rodvelt, Brothers, Gary (Donna) Rodvelt, Ronnie ( Susan) Rodvelt, Kevin (Ginger) Rodvelt and Sister, Brenda (Kevin) Wilhelm and numerous beloved nieces and nephews, Mother and Father in laws, Bob and Linda Fee, Bill and Connie Hartley, and sister-in- laws, Lachelle and Shannon Hartley and "DUKE" his best fur baby. Preceding in death was father, Morris Rodvelt in November 1994.

He was raised milking and farming for his family. Some of the most influential people of his life include but are not limited to, Ronnie Schuetz, Larry Matthias and Kirk Gaskell, who he considered family. Darryl Hundley and Becky Ashton Barton were a blessing during his battle with cancer. He regrettably retired from Gaskell Machine and Metal in January 2023 due to health reasons after 22 years of service. The hardest decision of his life.

The family will greet friends on Thursday evening from 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, June 30, 2023 at the Zion Lutheran Church north of Everest, Kansas. A private family burial will take place. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Muscotah Cancer Society and NEK Multi-County Home Health & Hospice and may be sent in care of the mortuary. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Robert L. “Bob” Spicer, 75, of Hiawatha, died early Monday morning, June 26, 2023, at Maple Heights Nursing Home.

Bob was born at Sabetha, October 26, 1947, one of four children born to Alva Leroy and Elizabeth Arnold Spicer and had lived most of his life in Hiawatha. He grew up south of Hiawatha and attended schools here and Willis before graduating with the last class at Robinson High School in 1966. Soon after high school, he served with the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam Conflict, discharged at the rank of sgt. In 1971. He served in the KSARNG in Hiawatha before being discharged in 1974.

After the military when his family was younger, they lived at Cozad Nebraska for 6 years where he worked for Monroe Automotive before returning to Hiawatha. He then joined the family business, Spicer Salvage, working with his father and brother Jim prior to working for CR Industries in Seneca for 14 years. In 2008, he started his own business recycling scrap metal until ill health forced him to retire.

He grew up in the Methodist Church in Willis.

He married Rose Ann McNett, August 12, 1974, at Church of Christ at Horton. They divorced in 1989 but still remained friends. She survives.

Also surviving is a son Michael Spicer (Tammy) of Fairview, step-daughter Karen Roland of Bellingham, Mass., a brother Jim Spicer of rural Hiawatha, 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters: Linda Curless and Jane Stahl.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 10 a.m. Thursday where the family will meet that evening from 5 until 7 p.m. Services will then be held with Shane Spangler officiating. Brown County Veterans Honor Guard will perform military honors. Cremation to follow service with private family inurnment at Corneilson Cemetery, Reserve.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Chapel Oaks Funeral Home to assist the family with final expenses.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Shirley M. Spangler, 88, of Axtell, KS, died June 8, 2023, at Frankfort Community Care Home.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., July 1, at Mission Covenant Church, southwest of Axtell. Rev. Herb Schrader will officiate. Pianist is Carissa Shirley. The congregation will sing "In The Garden" and Seth Bishop will sing "The Old Rugged Cross."

Honorary pallbearers are David Broxterman, Jordan Broxterman, Caleb Broxterman, Jacob Broxterman, Mariah Broxterman, Christa Warner, Grace Warner and Avery McCune.

Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Axtell.

Shirley was born on July 1, 1934 in Axtell to Ralph and Edith (Temple) Temple. She attended school in Axtell and graduated from Axtell High School. On August 15, 1958, she was united in marriage to Eddie Spangler in Denver, CO. This union was blessed with three daughters, Lisa, Laura and Linette.

Shirley was a bookkeeper for Rural Electric Cooperative in Axtell and worked previously for various banks in Topeka and Denver. She was a long-time member of the Mission Covenant Church, where she served as a deaconess and church reporter. Her faith was important to her and she participated in several community Bible studies. Shirley was a devout Christian.

Her home was the center of every holiday and family gathering. Peppernuts (a secret family recipe) on Christmas Eve was a family tradition. At the church potlucks, her cakes and brownies were favorite desserts. Shirley raised huge gardens that provided the family food all year long. Along with Eddie, she planted several acres of sweet corn to freeze and share with friends and family. She also raised chickens and shared the eggs with family and friends.

Reading, gardening, genealogy, and attending her grandchildren- sports and activities were favorite pasttimes. She never missed a family event. Her family was very important to her. Shirley was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband, Eddie; and brother, James Temple.

Survivors include daughters, Lisa (Terry) Broxterman, Axtell, Laura (Mark) Warner, Manhattan, and Linette (Marc) McCune, Ozawkie; grandchildren, David (Meghan) Broxterman, Jordan (Drew) Broxterman, Caleb (Rebecca) Broxterman, Jacob (Ashley) Broxterman, Mariah Broxterman, Christa Warner, Grace Warner and Avery McCune; and great grandchildren, Calvin Broxterman, Eddie Broxterman, Emmett Broxterman, Perry Broxterman and Sullivan Broxterman.

A memorial fund has been designated to Frankfort Community Care Home. Contributions may be sent in care of Axtell-Landreth Funeral Home.

Evelyn M. Spencer, 93, of Circleville, KS passed away Saturday, June 24, 2023 at The Pines in Holton.

She was born October 3, 1929 in Sabetha, Kansas, the daughter of Charles August and Nora May (Shumaker) Zwahl. She graduated from Wetmore High School in 1946. After high school, she completed Clark Business School.

Evelyn worked as a clerk for the Topeka and Shawnee County Health Departments. She also worked as a clerk for the Jackson County ASCS Office in Holton.

Evelyn was a member of Ayli Club and the Circleville United Methodist Church.

Evelyn married Richard Spencer in March 5, 1951 in Bentonville, Arkansas. He preceded her in death on October 20, 2008. She is also preceded by her son, Kelly Spencer and a brother, Elvin Zwahl.

Survivors include her daughter, Myla K. Cole (Jim) of Circleville, Kansas and a granddaughter, Erin Spencer of Omaha, Nebraska.

Graveside services will be held 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at the Circleville Cemetery in Circleville, Kansas. Evelyn will lie in state at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton Monday afternoon until 6 P.M. Memorials may be made to the Circleville United Methodist Church c/o P.O. Box 270, Holton, Kansas 66436. To leave the family a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com

Kenneth L. Stewart, 93, of Wathena, Kansas passed away Sunday, June 18, 2023, at the St. Joseph Senior Living.

Kenneth was born on August 14, 1929, in Seneca, Kansas to Charles and Georgia (Shaeffer) Stewart.

He served in the U.S. Army during Korean Conflict. He was a member of the Wathena United Methodist Church and a 70-year member of the Local Union #579, St, Joseph, Missouri and the American Legion Post #161 and VFW Post #5531 of Wathena, Kansas.

Kenneth married Patricia Ebelmesser on March 14, 1953, in Topeka, Kansas. She survives of the home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers and 2 sisters.

Additional survivors include sons, David C. Stewart (Dina) and James M. “Mike” Stewart both of Wathena, Kansas.

Brenda G. Wagner, Kansas City, Missouri.

Grandchildren, Christopher Stewart, Barry Stewart, Angela Cochneuer, Kylie Humpert and Alan Stewart.

Great-grandchildren, Riley and Rory Stewart, Olive and Quinn Humpert, and Reese Cochneuer and a step-great-grandson, Chase Cochneuer.

Nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service: 11:00 A.M. Monday, June 26, 2023.

At the United Methodist Church, Wathena, Kansas.

Visitation: 5-7 P.M. Sunday evening at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena, Kansas. Friends may call after 10:00 A.M. Sunday.

Burial: Bellemont Cemetery, Wathena, Kansas.

Memorials: United Methodist Church or the Wathena EMS.

www.harmanrohde.com

Thomas Neil MacPherson, age 75, of Atchison, Kansas, passed away Monday, June 19, 2023, at Mosaic Life Care. He was a proud organ donor and was able to donate his eyes through Saving Sight.

Tom was born on November 8, 1947, in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, one of two children to Robert Neil MacPherson and Laura Mae (Young) MacPherson. As a military family, they moved all over the country growing up but ended up back in Atchison where he graduated from high school in 1966. Tom joined the United States Army in 1970, and spent most of his tenure in Korea until his Honorable Discharge in 1974. He returned to the states and pursued a criminal justice psychology degree from Missouri Western in St. Joseph, MO, graduating in 1980. During his years in school, he worked for his best friend, Joe Peltzer at the Warf.

He and Karen Jones were married on October 14, 1981, in Fort Worth, Texas. Tom used his degree to make a full career of Law Enforcement. He joined the Bedford, TX, police department in 1982, where he served as a police officer until he retired in 2005. He had many specialties throughout his career, especially working under cover. After retiring, they returned to Atchison, and he spent his time again with Joe Peltzer at Commercial Vending.

Tom is survived by his wife, Karen MacPherson; his in-laws, Norman G. and June Jones; sister-in-law, Rita (J.D.) Hartman; brother-in-law, Leon (Virginia) Jones; two nieces, a nephew and numerous cousins. He will also be missed by his fur babies, Tom never saw a stray animal he didn’t feed; he even kept treats in his patrol car.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his only sibling, Jerry MacPherson.

A visitation with the family to celebrate Tom- life will be Monday, June 26, 2023, from 6-8:00 p.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Please wear casual attire because Tom wouldn’t want you to be uncomfortable! Memorial contributions may be made to the Atchison Humane Society or to the family and may be left in care of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.

Ellen Arlette Lacey, 88, of Holton, KS, passed away Thursday, June 22, 2023 at Vintage Park in Holton. She was born June 24, 1934 in Abilene, KS, the daughter of Seth M. and Estella Esther (Bear) Knapp.

Ellen graduated from Abilene High School in 1952 and from Asbury School of Nursing in Salina, KS, earning her Registered Nurse Degree.

She was a Registered Nurse for over 30 years at hospitals in Topeka and Clay Center. She also worked at the former Merry Manor Nursing Home and Jackson County Nursing Home (now Medicalodge Nursing Home) both in Holton.

Ellen was a member of the Evangel United Methodist Church (now Holton Evangel) and American Legion Post 44 Auxiliary.

Ellen married Floyd Richard Lacey on October 16, 1954 in Abilene, KS. He preceded her in death on July 10, 2014, after almost 60 years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Seth and Stella Knapp and a grandson, Joshua Lacey.

Survivors include her son, Floyd E. Lacey (Donna) of Topeka, KS; 3 daughters, Anita L. Lacey of Topeka, KS, Barbara J. Schneider (Tim) of Hillsboro, KS and Cheryl L. Hill (Rex) of Circleville, KS; 9 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 26, 2023 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Memorials may be given to the Heart of Jackson Humane Society c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Robert “Bob” Willis Frazee passed away, going to his heavenly home, on June 21, 2023 at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska following complications from an esophageal blockage. Bob was born to Willard and Hattie Reed Frazee on March 22, 1930 in Pawnee City, NE. He was raised on the family farm northwest of Summerfield, KS with his 2 brothers and 2 sisters. Bob attended country school and graduated from Summerfield High School in 1947.

Bob married Mary Ellen Loch on January 18, 1953 at the Presbyterian Church in Summerfield and they set up housekeeping on a dairy farm north of town. Together they raised 5 children, 3 boys and 2 girls. He milked dairy cows, first using stanchions and then building a double 3 herringbone milk parlor, following a barn fire in 1972. Bob spent his time growing a variety of crops and large quantities of hay and silage for the cattle.

He attended the Summerfield United Presbyterian Church his entire life until its closing last year and held numerous positions within the Church. The activities of 5 kids kept him involved in 4-H, school activities, and sporting events. Bob and Mary Ellen enjoyed attending the activities of their 14 grandchildren and hosted many family dinners which now includes 24 great grandchildren. They enjoyed taking many bus trips around the country until Mary Ellen- health would not allow it. Woodworking became a favorite pastime, creating many treasured items from toys to furniture for his family. Bob could still be seen playing cards this past winter at the local card parties and sitting on his front porch, watching the traffic go by, as he did a word search puzzle. He traveled many miles to eat at local establishments, where he visited with friends, and enjoyed windshield farming along the way. He could always be counted on to give the boys rides from farm to farm and check up on their daily work.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, wife Mary Ellen (2016), brothers Don and Richard (Dick) Frazee, sisters Carol Lantz and Mary Ann Koch, brothers-in-law Robert (Bob) Loch, Bill Lantz, Jack Koch, Sam McKee, sisters-in-law Irene Loch and Dorothy Frazee, grandchildren, Chad Frazee, Nicole Schlueter and Spencer Barr.

He is survived by: sons Bruce (Cherie), Summerfield; Dennis (Linda), Sabetha, KS; Doug (Gay), Summerfield; daughters, Karen (Randy) Schlueter, Beatrice, NE; Lori (Skip) Barr, Liberty, NE; grandchildren, Jasper (Gina) Frazee, Miranda (Brian) Lehman, Haley (Ben) Scheer, Regan (Jessica) Barr, Megan Frazee, Lee (Heather) Barr, Cody (Angie) Frazee, Blake (Janae) Frazee, Abby (Brent) Cole, Ethan (Gabriel) Schlueter, and Lucas (Vanessa) Barr; 24 great grandchildren and sister-in-law Grace Frazee McKee, and many nieces and nephews.

Celebration of Life 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 26, 2023 at The Summerfield Community Center/Firehall, Summerfield, Kansas. Visitation Sunday, June 25, 2023 from Noon to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 4-6 p.m., at Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska. Service will be will also be live-streamed on the Wherry Mortuary/Wherry Monument Facebook page for those unable to attend. Interment at the Summerfield Cemetery, Summerfield, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be designated at a later date to the family's choice. Online condolence may be left at www.wherrymortaury.com

Services entrusted to Wherry Mortuary, 919 G Street, Pawnee City, Nebraska

Margaret Jane Dodge, 80, of Everest, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at her home in Everest, Kansas.

She was born on December 22, 1942 in Holton, Kansas the daughter of Clarence and Nora May Marshall Jacobs.

After graduating from high school she married Gerald Dodge on July 28, 1963 in Everest, Kansas. She was a homemaker and helped take of the elderly in the Everest, Kansas area.

Survivors include two sons, Allen Dodge of Jacksonville, Florida and Leroy Dodge of Everest, Kansas; five grandchildren and six great grandchildren; two sisters, Etta Mae Matthias of Horton, Kansas and June Talbot of Des Moines, Iowa and a brother, Floyd Jacobs of Muscotah, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Gerald, two daughter-in-law-, Elena Poe Dodge and Jennifer Lynn Dodge, sister, Martha Butterfield, two brothers, Donald Jacobs and Dale Jacobs.

The family will greet friends on Saturday, June 24, 2023 from 1:00 to 2:30 P.M. at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas. A private family burial will take place at the Horton Cemetery.

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

Gerald J. “Jerry” Madden, 65, of Effingham, KS died on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at the Anew Nursing Home, Nortonville, KS, following an automobile accident on Dec. 19, 2020, that he never recovered from.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at St. Ann- Church, Effingham with Fr. Hughes Sundeme as Celebrant. Burial will follow in the St. Ann- Cemetery. A parish rosary will be recited at 6:00 pm on Friday, June 23rd, 2023, at the Becker Chapel, Effingham, KS, with visitation to follow until 8:00 pm. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Ann- Church and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who is entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Jerry was born on July 15, 1937, in Horton, KS, the son of George D. and Angela (Blocker) Madden. He graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1975. Jerry wrestled in high school earning 2nd place in the State of Kansas his senior year. He had attended Highland College, Benedictine College and received a bachelor- degree from Missouri Western University. Mr. Madden worked as counselor for the Kansas State Department of Correction and later served as a disability judge for the Social Security Administration. He was a member of the St. Ann- Catholic Church, Effingham, KS, where he served on the rebuilding committee. Jerry also served as an Atchison County Commissioner and on the Atchison County Community District #377 School Board and as an assistant wrestling coach for ACCHS. He enjoyed participating, watching, coaching and keeping up with the boys wrestling program.

Survivors include seven brothers; Jim Madden, Atchison, KS, Mike Madden, Topeka, KS, Ralph Madden, Effingham, KS., Louis Madden, Topeka, KS, Bill Madden, Junction City, KS, Alva Madden, Atchison, KS, and Henry Madden, Norman, OK, and two sisters; Frances Robinson, Atchison, KS, Mary Kimmi, Everest, KS, special friends, Steven Haywod and Stevie Patton and numerous nieces and nephews.

His parents, brothers; John and Paul Madden, sisters; Lois Sage, Irene Madden, and Helen Hagen, preceded him in death.

Francis E. “Smitty” Schmidt, 86, of Winchester, KS passed away at his home on Monday, June 19, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, June 26, 2023, at the Corpus Christi Church, Mooney Creek with Fr. Bill William as Celebrant. Burial will follow in the Corpus Christ Cemetery. A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at 6:00 pm on Sunday, June 25th, 2023, at the church, memorial contributions are suggested to the Corpus Christi Church for Mass Intentions, Corpus Christi Cemetery or Faith Hospice and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who is handling the services. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Francis was born on September 14, 1936, in Emporia, KS the son of Paul & Clara (Didde) Schmidt. After he graduated from 8th grade he came to Mooney Creek and lived with his aunt & uncle while he attended high school. He graduated from Maur-Hill Prep in 1954. While he was in high school, he joined the Kansas Army National Guard and served in the reserves for nine years. After graduation from high school, he helped his uncle on the farm. Later he went to work for the Leavenworth Steel CO. and then the Don Grandon Steel Co. In 1970, Francis started his own Backhoe Business. He did all kinds of construction work and decided to branch off into laying field tile in 1974. The field tile would drain wet spots in the field and drain the waterways so they could be mowed. This helped farmers to farm most of their ground and raise better crops. Later Smitty started putting in terrace tile outlet systems, this took care the place of waterways and let the farmer have more of his field to farm. Smitty loved visiting and talking to friends and customers. He also opened and closed graves for several area cemeteries. He was a member of the Corpus Christi Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the Eagles in Leavenworth KS. HE enjoyed going out on Saturday evenings dancing. Smitty enjoyed watching his sons and grandsons working and building their business.

He was married to Eulaine Noll on June 17, 1958, being married for 65 years this month. She survives of the home. Addition survivors include his children; Alvin (Deanna) Schmidt, Nortonville, KS, Glen (Susan) Schmidt, Atchison, KS, Larry (Dianna) Schmidt, Easton, KS, Terry (Rebecca) Schmidt, Nortonville, KS, a sister Carol Ann Vaughan, Tonganoxie, KS, ten grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. His parents, and brothers; Robert & Harold Schmidt, and sister, Mary Louise Weishaar, preceded him in death.

Clarence John Meyer, 93 of Soldier, KS passed away on Sunday, June 18, 2023, Father- Day, at Crestview Nursing Home, Seneca Kansas where he resided for the past 2 ½ years. He had his family by his side.

Clarence was born April 20, 1930 on the family farm in Baileyville, Kansas to his parents Henry and Clara Haug Meyer. He graduated Valedictorian of his class at Baileyville High School in 1948. Clarence was a member of the St Patrick- Catholic Church, Corning Kansas. He served on the St Patrick- School Board, Parish Council, Nemaha County Coop Board and the Pottawatomie District #3 Water Board.

On April 20, 1963, Clarence married JoAnn Glissman at St. Bede- Church, Kelly, Kansas. They lived on their family farm south of Corning for the past 60 years. He was a grain farmer and stockman, raising both cattle and hogs during his lifetime. His hobbies were spending time with his family and going to their school events, along with collecting toy John Deere Tractors, playing cards and just being outdoors doing what he loved, which was farming.

He is survived by his wife, JoAnn of 60 years; his children, Gary (Lisa) Meyer, Onaga; Brenda (Dan) Hasenkamp, Centralia; Ed Meyer, Corning and Karen Meyer (Kelly Innes), Topeka. He is also survived by five sisters, Elaine Meyer (Jean Placke), Baileyville; Marilyn Holthaus, St. Benedict; Delores Saggars, Olathe; Kathy (Richard) Buessing, Axtell and Janice (Tom) Tomlinson, Sarasota, Fl.; one sister-in- law, Thelma Meyer, Granger, IA. Clarence will be missed by his grandchildren, Brent (Rachel) Hasenkamp, Kansas City, Mo; Danielle (Peter) Willcott, Valley Falls; Cody (Jeri Wesley) Meyer, Onaga; Kylar (Vanessa) Meyer, Basehor; Kori (Tyler) Roberts, Topeka; Breanna Hasenkamp, Tulsa, OK; Caidin Meyer, Topeka along with ten great-grandchildren.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Vernis, Donald and Kenny; his sisters, Mildred and Sister Mary John; brothers-in-law, Dennis Holthaus and Steve Saggars; and sister-in-law, Marcy Meyer.

Rosaries will be prayed at 2 and 7 PM on Friday, June 23, 2023 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at St. Patrick- Church, Corning. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Memorials can be given in Clarence- memory to the Step Foundation Dementia Fund or to the Crestview Nursing Home- Activity Fund, sent in care of the family.
To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

Keith David Mez was born to Charles Mez and Minnie Katherine Mez on October 10, 1932, in Falls City, Nebraska. He was the second of three children born into the family. Keith passed away peacefully in New Braunfels, Texas on June 16, 2023, at the age of 90 years.

He attended Falls City Public School, graduating in May of 1950. Following graduation, Keith joined his father on the family farm. In 1951, Keith went on a blind date with Jennie (Joan) Richardson; this was the beginning of their life-long love story.

Keith was drafted by the US Army and entered selective service on March 10, 1953. He completed Basic Training at Fort Riley, Kansas. Following Basic Training, Keith completed the Pipeline Installer-Operator course, Engineer Department, Eta Jima Specialist School, finishing first in his class. Keith was sent to Korea where he served his country until his release from active military service February 5, 1955, at the rank of Corporal. While serving, he earned the United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and one overseas bar. Keith was then transferred to the Army Reserves for the next eight years.

Upon his return home from active duty, Keith married Joan Richardson February 14, 1955, in Tucumcari, New Mexico. Keith and Joan began their married life on the family farm near Verdon Nebraska and remained there for the next few years, then moved to New Mexico and California for a short time while Keith worked in the pipeline industry. They later returned to southeast Nebraska, and then to Omaha where Keith completed coursework in Commercial and Residential Refrigeration. Utilizing his training, Keith worked for various companies in Omaha while a member of the Steamfitters and Plumbers Union Local 464.

In 1984 Keith and Joan moved to San Antonio, Texas where he took a supervisory position in commercial refrigeration with HEB grocery stores. Keith remained with HEB until his retirement in 1997. Keith liked to say that he retired from HEB on Friday and went to work for Joan on Saturday.

Keith was preceded in death by his wife Joan of 62 years, his parents Charles and Minnie Mez, his brother Harold Mez and his sister Lois Kehr.

Keith is survived by his sisters-in-law, Marie Lyons of Falls City, Nebraska and Peggy Fairbanks of Green Valley, Arizona as well as many nephews and nieces.

Keith and Joan made many friends through their love of Square Dancing. Keith was an avid golfer and continued to play into his 80-. He also enjoyed tinkering and spent many hours creating apparatuses to help Joan be more independent as her MS progressed. Keith and Joan enjoyed a long, happy marriage and found joy in every day they spent together.

Bryce Daniel Pruett, 37, King City, MO, formerly of Lancaster, KS, passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at Mosaic Life Care, St. Joseph, MO.

Funeral service will be 10:30 AM Friday, June 23, 2023, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS. Burial will follow at the Lancaster Cemetery, Lancaster, KS. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Thursday, June 22, 2023, at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the children- education fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent to www.beckerdyer.com.

Bryce was born May 2, 1986, in Atchison, KS, the son of Danny and Shelley (Wells) Pruett. He graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 2004. Bryce was a Sale Barn Manager for Maryville Livestock Auction. Bryce was baptized and raised in the St. Louis Catholic Church Good Intent. He was attending the Christian Community Church, King City, MO with his family. Bryce loved livestock and animals, horseback riding, having grown up at the Atchison Sale Barn. He was a member of the Lancaster Saddle Club and participated in FFA and Sound Masters in High School. Bryce had a big personality which matched his stature, he absolutely loved spending time with his kids, family, and friends.

Bryce married Lorann Brewer on October 13, 2012; she survives of the home. He is also survived by his children, Lillian, Kylee and JW Pruett of the home, his parents Dan and Kim Pruett, Lancaster, KS, Shelley and Jim Buttron, Lancaster, KS, sister Emily and JR Bare, Lancaster, KS, step brother Cowen and Dani Otte, Atchison, KS, step sister, Myka and Steven Sinclair, Everest, KS, grandmothers Melva Harrison and Nancy Wells, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Donald J. Reid, 93, of Atchison KS died on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family.

Cremation is planned according to his wishes with the burial of his cremated remains at a later date in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Atchison. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Atchison Library, Mt. Vernon Cemetery or St. Croix Hospice and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who has been entrusted with his care. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Don was born on Oct. 17, 1929, in Atchison, KS, the son of Harry W. and Loretta E. (Stamper) Reid. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1948. He was a Cattleman and Farmer, and a member of the First Christian Church, Atchison. Don was a past member of the Active Masonic Lodge #158 and the Atchison Elks. He served on the Board of Atchison County CO-OP and the Atchison County Livestock Board. He enjoyed reading, playing cards, camping, welding and worked on several creative metal projects and building four homes. He especially enjoyed his family, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

He was married to Jolene S. Pinder on May 26, 1957, in Effingham, KS. Jolene survives in their home. Additional survivors include two daughters Chaunzey E. Tenbrink, Berryton, KS, and Peggy (Mark) Kistler, Atchison, KS, a sister Marjorie Bruhn, Laguna Woods, CA, four grandchildren Tony (Theresa) Tenbrink and Drew (Kiley) Tenbrink, and Katie and Carrie Kistler, and several great grandchildren. His parents, sister and brother-in-law Betty L and Roy Bahnson, brother-in-law Walter Bruhn and Son-in-law, Steven Tenbrink preceded him in death.

The family would like to thank the hospice and in-home care workers that took care of Don at home.

LeRoy “Butch” Bestwick, 77, of Falls City was born on July 31, 1945, in Frankfort, Kansas. He was the only son of Earl and Vivian (Prosser) Bestwick and had one sister, Rhonda Trundle and one half-sister, Mary Lou Foster. LeRoy ‘s early years of growing up were in Kansas until his parents decided to move to Gig Harbor, Washington to be near other family members. They moved back to Lincoln, Nebraska in 1959 where his dad worked on a dairy farm with his help. Later it was on a dairy north of Seneca, Kansas and finally Crook- east of Humboldt, Nebraska.

It was in Humboldt that LeRoy met his best friend and life time love Hazel Carpenter. They were married after Hazel- graduation on February 8, 1964. LeRoy returned to the dairy north of Seneca, Kansas for several months and then farmed west of Salem, Nebraska before obtaining a job at Flare Folds in Falls City where they moved and he worked for several years. In 1968, they moved to Lincoln, Nebraska where Hazel was transferred to the Lancaster County ASCS Office from the Richardson County office. This was when LeRoy started his occupation in floor covering which continued for 40 years. Unfortunately, it also contributed to his declining health in later years. After celebrating their 59th wedding anniversary on February 8, 2023, LeRoy and Hazel decided to start saving some money and have a huge celebration for their 60th. They didn’t quite make it After spending over 60 years together, his passing has left a big void in Hazel- life but she is extremely thankful for the good times they shared and for all of the memories. After a four-month courageous battle, LeRoy passed away on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at the Falls City Nursing and Rehab facility. He tried hard to achieve his goal of ’going home’ but couldn’t reach it. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Rhonda Trundle, half sister Mary Lou Foster, all of his grandparents, and aunts and uncles.

LeRoy is survived by his beloved wife and soul mate Hazel, his only nephew Brian Sanders and wife Jen, brother-in-law Ron Trundle and wife Linda, ex-brother-in-law Jerry Sanders plus Robert and Lana Carpenter, Harlan and Ruth Ann Carpenter, Dorothy Deeke, nieces and nephews, cousins plus many friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 on Friday, June 23, 2023, at The Good News Assembly of God Church in Falls City with Pastor Tim Boatright officiating. A luncheon will follow services at the American Legion Club in Falls City. Graveside Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the Humboldt Cemetery in Humboldt following the luncheon.

Visitation will be from noon-8 p.m. on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at The Hall Funeral Home, 2403 Harland Street in Falls City. Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

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

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

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

Jeane Marie (Rears) Kuhlmann, daughter of Amel F. and Ruby L. (Caskey) Rears was born at home near Stella, Nebraska on March 14, 1922. She attended North Star rural school District 101 and lived with her parents until she began teaching in rural schools in Southeast Nebraska. Jean graduated from Bratton Union High School and later graduated from Peru State Teachers College. She taught in several rural schools for seven years. On June 30, 1946, Jean married her sweetheart, Edmund J. Kuhlmann. The couple set up housekeeping and farming near Table Rock, Nebraska before moving to a farm east of Humboldt where they raised their children Amy (Kuhlmann) Holsapple and Ken Kuhlmann.

Jeane and Edmund became charter members of Faith Lutheran Church in Humboldt where they were active throughout their lives. Jeane was also a charter member of LWML since 1957, Concordia Guild since 1967 and charter member of the Sewing Granny's; holding various positions within the groups. She performed lots of services at the church including crocheting altar clothes, Chrismons for the Christmas Tree, making banners to be displayed in the church for the various seasons and given to babies baptized and for other milestones. Beginning in 1986, Jeane wrote her famous Jeane- Sense and Nonsense article for the monthly church newsletter. She shared her faith in God with others through this article, never missing a month. Her most important revelation was her "Damascus Road" witness which she shared with so many people. Jeane wants to be remembered for being a child of God and a witness to his grace.

Jeane passed away on Sunday, June 18, 2023, at Colonial Acres Nursing Home in Humboldt, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of 101 years, 3 months, and 4 days. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Edmund, sisters: Anna May (Edwin Kuhlmann), Ruby Lee (Lee Remmers), brother Donald (Rose Marie Lewis), brothers-in-law: Edwin Kuhlmann, Lee Remmers, Hank Haynes, Alvin Kuhlmann, Ernest Kuhlmann, Walter Kuhlmann, Ervin Kuhlmann, Reinhart Kuhlmann, sisters-in-law: Rosa Kuhlmann, Leona Kuhlmann, Ida (Mikal) Kuhlmann, Rosina (Mikal) Kuhlmann, Leona (Grauerholz) Kuhlmann, Rose Marie (Lewis) Rears.

Jeane is survived by her daughter Amy Holsapple of Overland Park, KS; son Ken Kuhlmann and wife Jan (Voght) of Humboldt, NE; sister, Mary Lou (Rears) Haynes of Auburn, sister-in-law Manetta Kuhlmann of Sterling, CO; 4 grandchildren and spouses, 6 great-grandchildren and spouses, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, friends, and neighbors.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at Faith Lutheran Church in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Tim Llewellyn officiating. Interment will follow services at the Humboldt Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt. Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be given to The Lutheran Hour.

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

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

Harry Harold Wist departed this life on June 4, 2023, at his home in Topeka, Kansas, at 74 years, 10 months and 29 days. He was the seventh of nine children born to Henry William and Berniece Lenore (Adams) Wist on July 5, 1948, in Falls City, Nebraska. He lived his first 15 years in the Honey Creek Area of Nebraska.

In 1963 the family moved to Hiawatha, Kansas, where he attended Hiawatha High School, graduating with the Class of 1966. After high school, Harry was employed by Wilde Tool and drove a mail truck from Hiawatha to Topeka and back. In 1990 Harry moved to Topeka, Kansas and worked for a book binding company until he retired.

Preceding Harry in death were his mother and father; sisters Elenora Alice Wisdom and Roberta Agnes Unertl and brothers William Russell Wist and Henry Leroy West.

Surviving family includes sister Grace Ilene (Chet) Weinstroer Jr., brother Edward Clarence (Joyce) Wist, brother Howard Wayne (Melissa/Missy) Wist, sister Anita Kay (Scott) Star-buck and 17 nieces and nephews. Harry will be missed!

Harry- body has been cremated, and his final resting place will be in Steele Cemetery, Falls City, Nebraska. There will be no funeral, only the graveside service. The graveside service will be Wednesday, July 5, at 11:00 am. All friends and extended family are welcome to join the family at Steele Cemetery.

Colleen Cherie (Hall) Masonbrink, 87, of Humboldt, Nebraska was born on May 10, 1936, in Nebraska City, Nebraska to Ralph and Phoebe (Streeter) Hall. She received her schooling in Nebraska City and graduated from Nebraska City High School with the class of 1954.

On February 15, 1963, Colleen was united in marriage to Duane Masonbrink. The couple made their home in Humboldt while raising their 10 children until moving to the farm in 1973. Duane and Coleen owned and operated the Humboldt Sale Barn and farmed until selling the Sale Barn in December of 1982. The couple lived in Omaha and Lincoln where they managed apartment buildings and Duane was an over the road truck driver. In 1991, they moved back to Humboldt to their present home while Duane continued to truck until his retirement. Colleen was an excellent cook, seamstress and immaculate housekeeper. She will be remembered for her hospitality to all.

Colleen went to be with her Lord on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Auburn, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of eighty-seven years, one month, and five days. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Duane, children: Norman, Lesa, and Charlene, one grandchild, and brother Jerry Hall.

Colleen is survived by her sons: Mike (Jerri) Masonbrink, Roger (Christy) Masonbrink, David (Julie) Masonbrink, Ken (Cindy) Masonbrink, Patrick Masonbrink, daughters: Susie (Jim) Shupp and Brenda Franks, 22 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and sister-in-law Beverly Hall.

Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at the Humboldt Cemetery in Humboldt, Nebraska with Pastor Dorothy Smith officiating. Casual attire is requested by the family for those attending services.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska. Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. at the mortuary.

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

Condolences can be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

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

William R. “Bill” Bohlken, age 83 of Auburn, passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2023, in Lincoln, Nebraska.

He leaves behind his wife Ellen of Auburn; children Jay (Abbie Widger) Bohlken of Syracuse, Joel (Natalie) Bohlken of Palmer, Jon (Keri) Bohlken of Phoenix, AZ, and Angie (George) Herrera of Peoria, AZ; grandchildren Connor(CJ) Bohlken, Breea Herrera, Stacy Bohlken, Anna Bohlken, Marie Bohlken, Chloe Herrera, Lexi Bohlken, Daisy Herrera, Eva Herrera, Frannie Herrera, Megan (Rich) Christensen, and Dustin (Brooke) Gerdes; great grandchildren Faye Bohlken, Addison and Raegan Christensen, and Kinsley Gerdes. He is also survived by his sister Maureen (Allan) Reinking, many nieces and nephews, special cousins, brothers-in-law Ken Palm, Darwin (Natalie) Kloster, Vaugn (Carolyn) Kloser, sister-in-law Darlene Yovonie, and many friends including church family friends.

A funeral service will be Friday, June 23, 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Auburn. Burial will be at Grant Evergreen Cemetery near Talmage at 2:00 p.m. Friday. Visitation will be at the funeral home Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 6:00 to 8:00.

Memorials are suggested to St. Paul Lutheran Church or Auburn BackPack Program.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.

Robert “Bob” Lea Cloves 76, formerly of Atchison, KS, passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at Lamoni Specialty Care, Lamoni, IA.

Funeral service will be 2:00 PM, Saturday, June 17, 2023, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral, with Rev. Bob Kraus officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to Lamoni Specialty Care and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Bob was born Dec. 13, 1946, in Atchison, KS, the son of Malcolm Troy and Barbara Leticia (Langworthy) Cloves. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1964. Bob worked at Ayers Auto Part and then Napa for twenty years. It was said he was the best parts man around, loved to work on cars, go fishing, play cards and pool, there wasn’t a pool hall he didn’t know and wasn’t known at. Robert was member of the First Baptist Church, Atchison, KS.

Bob married Connie Sue Holthusen, they later divorced. He married Deanna Chase Mullins they later divorced. Survivors include his daughter, Lori and Marty Young, Blythedale, MO, a brother Dennis Dean Cloves, Overland Park, KS, a granddaughter, Ashly Paige Young, two great grandchildren, Emmett Wayne Miller, Presley Raylynn Miller.

He was preceded by his parents and brothers, Donald Smith, Marvin and Richard Cloves, sisters, Betty Daum and Joan Smith.

Esther “Sissy” Irene Morris, 89, of Elwood, Kansas passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at the Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Sissy was born on July 18, 1933, in St. Joseph, Missouri to Harry and Fern (Linegar) Harris.

She was a wonderful homemaker and a very loving mother and grandmother.

Sissy married Edward “Ed” John Morris on October 22, 1949, in St. Joseph, Missouri. He preceded her in death on March 28, 2014. She was also preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers and one great-grandson, Kye.

Survivors: daughters, Linda Stull (Tom), and Margi Clark (Rod).

Granddaughters, Rachelle Arnold (Brian), Crystal Clark (Mike Norman), Lacey Gabler (Mike), and Tina Slibowski (Jeff).

Grandsons, TJ Stull (Zack Harris) and Jeff Stull (Lisa).

Great-granddaughters, Brooklyn, Kalyn, Mariah, Linzi, Lexi and Maiya.

Great-grandsons, Dade and Landyn.

Numerous nieces and nephews.

There is no scheduled service.

Visitation: 11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. Friday at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena, Kansas.

Burial: Ole #6 Cemetery, Frazier, Missouri.

In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Esther Morris Memorial Fund.

www.harmanrohde.com

Rosa Lee “Rosie” Turpin, of Atchison, Kansas, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother during her 90 years of life, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2023.

Rosie was born on April 28, 1933, in Effingham, Kansas, daughter of George and Katharine (Schneider) Regan. She attended St. Joseph- Grade School and graduated from Mount St. Scholastica Academy in 1951.

At the age of 14, she met a handsome neighbor boy who would later become her husband. She and Donald Turpin were married on July 5, 1952 at Keesler Air Force Base, in Biloxi, Mississippi. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary last summer.

Rosie spent much of her adult life raising children and grandchildren. She also worked as a bus driver for Benedictine College throughout the 1970-, transporting students back and forth from north to south campus. In 1978, she became a chauffeur for the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica. She worked for them for 33 years, until her retirement in 2011. Rosie loved her job, and became close friends with many of the Sisters. After her retirement, she and Don spent the next 9 years as full-time babysitters for some of their great-grandchildren.

In her younger years, Rosie enjoyed playing and coaching softball. She coached all of her daughters as members of the Turpin- Tornadoes. She took pride in working hard throughout her life. This was especially evident in the way she took care of her home and yard, mowing it herself until she was almost 80. She will be remembered for her sense of humor, her stubbornness and the never-ending love that she gave to her family.

Rosie is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bob Regan; sisters, Mary Ellen Matthews, Kathleen Badger, Eileen Graves, and Marjorie Willming. She was also preceded in death by her son-in-law, Michael Coulter; grandson Tim Phillips and great-grandson, Jayden Langan.

Left to cherish her memory include her husband, Don Turpin; children: Mike (Tracey) Turpin, Chris (Melissa) Turpin, Kathy Phillips, Sherry Coulter, Vicki Bennett, Pam (Mike) Andre, Tracie Turpin; twenty-two grandchildren, thirty-eight great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rosie- life will be celebrated on Monday, June 19, 2023, beginning with a visitation at 10:00 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m., at St. Joseph Church. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery and a lunch will be served at the church basement after the burial. Memorials may be left to Children- Mercy Hospital or Mount St. Scholastica. Funeral care has been entrusted to the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.

Rosa Lee “Rosie” Turpin, of Atchison, Kansas, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother during her 90 years of life, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2023.

Rosie was born on April 28, 1933, in Effingham, Kansas, daughter of George and Katharine (Schneider) Regan. She attended St. Joseph- Grade School and graduated from Mount St. Scholastica Academy in 1951.

At the age of 14, she met a handsome neighbor boy who would later become her husband. She and Donald Turpin were married on July 5, 1952 at Keesler Air Force Base, in Biloxi, Mississippi. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary last summer.

Rosie spent much of her adult life raising children and grandchildren. She also worked as a bus driver for Benedictine College throughout the 1970-, transporting students back and forth from north to south campus. In 1978, she became a chauffeur for the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica. She worked for them for 33 years, until her retirement in 2011. Rosie loved her job, and became close friends with many of the Sisters. After her retirement, she and Don spent the next 9 years as full-time babysitters for some of their great-grandchildren.

In her younger years, Rosie enjoyed playing and coaching softball. She coached all of her daughters as members of the Turpin- Tornadoes. She took pride in working hard throughout her life. This was especially evident in the way she took care of her home and yard, mowing it herself until she was almost 80. She will be remembered for her sense of humor, her stubbornness and the never-ending love that she gave to her family.

Rosie is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bob Regan; sisters, Mary Ellen Matthews, Kathleen Badger, Eileen Graves, and Marjorie Willming. She was also preceded in death by her son-in-law, Michael Coulter; grandson Tim Phillips and great-grandson, Jayden Langan.

Left to cherish her memory include her husband, Don Turpin; children: Mike (Tracey) Turpin, Chris (Melissa) Turpin, Kathy Phillips, Sherry Coulter, Vicki Bennett, Pam (Mike) Andre, Tracie Turpin; twenty-two grandchildren, thirty-eight great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rosie- life will be celebrated on Monday, June 19, 2023, beginning with a visitation at 10:00 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m., at St. Joseph Church. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery and a lunch will be served at the church basement after the burial. Memorials may be left to Children- Mercy Hospital or Mount St. Scholastica. Funeral care has been entrusted to the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.

Rosa Lee “Rosie” Turpin, of Atchison, Kansas, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother during her 90 years of life, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2023.

Rosie was born on April 28, 1933, in Effingham, Kansas, daughter of George and Katharine (Schneider) Regan. She attended St. Joseph- Grade School and graduated from Mount St. Scholastica Academy in 1951.

At the age of 14, she met a handsome neighbor boy who would later become her husband. She and Donald Turpin were married on July 5, 1952 at Keesler Air Force Base, in Biloxi, Mississippi. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary last summer.

Rosie spent much of her adult life raising children and grandchildren. She also worked as a bus driver for Benedictine College throughout the 1970-, transporting students back and forth from north to south campus. In 1978, she became a chauffeur for the Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica. She worked for them for 33 years, until her retirement in 2011. Rosie loved her job, and became close friends with many of the Sisters. After her retirement, she and Don spent the next 9 years as full-time babysitters for some of their great-grandchildren.

In her younger years, Rosie enjoyed playing and coaching softball. She coached all of her daughters as members of the Turpin- Tornadoes. She took pride in working hard throughout her life. This was especially evident in the way she took care of her home and yard, mowing it herself until she was almost 80. She will be remembered for her sense of humor, her stubbornness and the never-ending love that she gave to her family.

Rosie is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bob Regan; sisters, Mary Ellen Matthews, Kathleen Badger, Eileen Graves, and Marjorie Willming. She was also preceded in death by her son-in-law, Michael Coulter; grandson Tim Phillips and great-grandson, Jayden Langan.

Left to cherish her memory include her husband, Don Turpin; children: Mike (Tracey) Turpin, Chris (Melissa) Turpin, Kathy Phillips, Sherry Coulter, Vicki Bennett, Pam (Mike) Andre, Tracie Turpin; twenty-two grandchildren, thirty-eight great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rosie- life will be celebrated on Monday, June 19, 2023, beginning with a visitation at 10:00 a.m. followed by Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m., at St. Joseph Church. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery and a lunch will be served at the church basement after the burial. Memorials may be left to Children- Mercy Hospital or Mount St. Scholastica. Funeral care has been entrusted to the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.

Phyllis Jean Wilson, 92, of Holton, KS, formerly of Mayetta, KS, passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at The Pines South. She was born August 11, 1930 in Bloomfield, NE. Shortly after birth, she was relinquished for adoption. She was adopted in Omaha, NE, by Guy Elwin and Cora F. (Fitzgerald) Devars. She grew up in Orleans with them.

She was the middle child of 5 children of her biological family. In later years, she got acquainted with her biological family.

Phyllis graduated from high school in Orleans, Nebraska and lived in Mayetta for over 55 years. She was a homemaker and worked as a secretary for Security Benefit for many years.

She married Earl S. Wilson on December 4, 1949 in Orleans, NE. They celebrated over 43 years of marriage before his passing on October 16, 1993. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Gora Devars.

Survivors include her 2 sons, Jeff Wilson (Thelma) of Mayetta, KS and Jim Wilson (Liz) of Raymore, MO; 4 grandchildren, Jeremy Wilson (Nicole), Todd Wilson (Alison), Caitlin Morse (Mitch) and Emily Carberry (Stephen); 7 great-grandchildren, Karsyn & Conner, Timber & Tinley, Kennedy & Deacon and Wilson as well as many biological family members.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 A.M. Monday, June 19, 2023 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at Mayetta Cemetery. Cards of condolence may be sent to Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.

Mary Alyce Lednicky, 94, of Everest, Kansas passed on Sunday, June 11, 2023 away after a short stay at the Maple Heights Nursing Center in Hiawatha, Kansas.

She was born on April 20, 1929 in Horton, Kansas the daughter of James and Cora McCraw Peterson. After Mary Alyce graduated from high school she married John F. Lednicky on November 10, 1948 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Purcell, Kansas.

She was a homemaker and worked during the tax season for Knouse Accounting in Horton. Mary Alyce played the organ for St. Mary's Catholic Church for over fifty years. She loved her flowers, music, sewing, watching KU basketball but most of all spending time with children and grandchildren. Mary Alyce always remembered birthdays and sent out cards, early enough so they would arrive on time.

Survivors include three daughters, Linda (Tom) Oertel of Leavenworth, Kansas, Carla Earp of Tonganoxie, Kansas and Lisa Burke (David) Jasper of Everest, Kansas; three sons, Timothy (Sue) Lednicky of Leavenworth, Kansas, Michael (Cindy) Lednicky of Everest, Kansas and James (Joy) Lednicky of Horton, Kansas; twenty two grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren with two on the way and three great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John, son, Stephen Lednicky, two son-in-laws, Rick Earp and Jim Burke and a grandson, Ryan Earp.

A rosary will be recited at 6:00 P.M. on Friday, June 16, 2023 at the St. Leo's Catholic Church in Horton, Kansas with visitation to follow. A funeral mass will be at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday at the St. Leo's Catholic Church with burial to follow at the St. Leo's Catholic Cemetery. The family would like to thank NEK Hospice for their mother's special care by those that she bonded with. Memorials may be made to the Mary Alyce Lednicky memorial fund to be designated later. A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com

Joe "Bob" Kidd, Jr., 69, of Everest, Kansas was born on October 21, 1953, in Upland, California.

The son of Joe Bob Kidd and Marcelene Lucille Stevenson, he passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on May 31, 2023.

Bob married Sue on May 27, 1988 in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. He was a kind man with a witty sense of humor that enjoyed spending time with family and friends, playing the guitar, listening to music, and collecting coins. He was a Clinical Laboratory Specialist with the U.S Public Health Service for many years before his retirement.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Sarita Cooper.

He is lovingly remembered by: his wife, Sue Kidd; sons John-Paul Kidd and Alex McAfee (Nikki) daughter Kate Stanger (Clay); grandchildren McKenzie, Alexis, Skylar, Christian, Isabella, Brayden, Roman, Jetta, and Clara.

Memorials may be made to the NEK Home Health and Hospice.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Mortuary in Horton, Kansas.

Merle Cline Strole, 84, of Valley Falls, KS, passed away Tuesday, June 13, 2023. He was born June 29, 1938 in Denison, KS, the son of Vernon Maxey and Florence “Pauline” (Cline) Strole.

Merle graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1956 and attended Washburn University towards a teaching degree in History. He proudly served in the United States Army. He was a lifelong member of the Valley Falls community.

He worked for Guys Potato Chips selling on his route, he worked for American Linen and later retired in July 2000 from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Merle enjoyed most sports including Chiefs, Royals, KU and K-State. He was known for this sense of humor, sarcasm and quick wit. It was common to find him at home by 5:00 p.m. so he wouldn’t miss his show, Jeopardy. He liked cars- working on them and took pride in having a clean car.

He married Janie Spielman on August 9, 1966 in Miami, OK, she preceded him in death after 33 years of marriage on April 7, 2000. His companion, Laura Jane Foley preceded him after 10 years on September 8, 2010. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Florence “Pauline” Strole; brother, Connie Strole and 2 great-grandchildren, Slader Ray Shinn and Rylee Welborn.

Survivors include his 3 children, Lori Glissman (Mike) of Valley Falls, KS, Rod Strole of Topeka, KS and Lee Welborn (Larry) of Valley Falls, KS; sister, Peggy Wichman (Galen) of Richmond, KS; 5 grandchildren, Shelbie Morgison (Kyle) of Perry, KS, Kolbie Glissman and Kyle Glissman both of Valley Falls, KS, Cindi Welborn and Erik Welborn (Lacy) of Valley Falls, KS and 6 great-grandchildren, Kayden, Kolt and Cort Morgison, Vada Shinn, Lucas and Wade Welborn,

Funeral Service will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 17, 2023 at the Valley Falls United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at the Valley Falls Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Memorials may be given to the Valley Falls Community Foundation 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.

Ruth Woods, 96, of Falls City, NE, passed away June 11, 2023 at Falls City. She was born March 26, 1927 at Omaha, NE to Fremont and Blanche (Swihart) Wilson.

She married Philip Woods on January 6, 1949 at Hiawatha, KS. He passed away February 22, 2017.

Ruth was raised in Dunbar and moved to Willis, KS at 17 and graduated Willis High School in 1945. She then worked for Dr. Brown at Nebraska City, then moved to Topeka and worked for SBA Insurance and then Security Benefit Insurance. Following her husband- return from service they moved to Tennessee then to Atchison, KS and in 1963 they moved to Falls City where she was a homemaker. She was a member of First Christian Church.

Ruth is survived by her son, Michael and his wife Eve of Hutchison, KS, Morris and his wife Joyce of Joaquin, TX, Timothy and his wife Susan of Overland Park, KS, Alan and his wife Sandi of Leavenworth, KS, Scott of Falls City, Tony and his wife Kelli of Smithville, MO, daughter, Donn Krohn and her husband Gary of Wheaton, KS, twelve grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, a great-granddaughter, husband and brothers, Neal and Robert Wilson.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at 11:00 AM at First Christian Church with Reverend Fay Ann Blaylock officiating. Inurnment will be at Leavenworth National Cemetery at a later date.

The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the service at First Christian Church.

Laurence “Larry” Charles James, 77, of rural Du Bois, Nebraska was born on March 18, 1946, in Holdrege, Nebraska to Ardelle Francis and Charlotte (Hansen) James. Larry attended school in Dawson and graduated from Dawson-Verdon High School with the class of 1965. He continued his education at Hastings Technology College where he received a degree in agriculture in 1968. Larry worked in various farms and for different farmers before coming back to the James Dairy Farm in Verdon, Nebraska in 1968.

On July 18, 1981, Larry was united in marriage to Juanita Vollmers at the United Church of Christ in Steinauer, Nebraska. The couple moved to a farm near Du Bois, Nebraska in the summer of 1993 and Larry continued to work as a hired hand for various farmers throughout the local area. Between 2005-2008, Larry worked on the harvesting crew and even survived a heart attack with surgery in August of 2008. He enjoyed time with his family, and anything John Deere or Snap0On Tools.

Larry passed away on Saturday, June 10, 2023, at the Bryan LGH Medical Center West in Lincoln, Nebraska having reached the earthly age of seventy-seven years, two months, and twenty-three days. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Patty Lou James, grandparents, and step brother-in-law Orville Henry.

Larry is survived by his wife Juanita James of rural Du Bois, NE; children: Christina James of Pickrell, NE; Charlotte Wallace and husband Ryann of Beatrice, NE; John James, grandchildren: Coby and Elizabeth of Pickrell, NE; sister Elizabeth “Betty” Wilson and husband Tom of Shawnee, KS; brother Richard “Dick” James and wife Jennifer of Verdon, NE; step-sister Marie Henry of Palmer, AR; step-brothers: Tom and Don Ballue both of Osage City, KS; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 16, 2023, at Zion Lutheran Church in Pawnee City, Nebraska with Pastor Tim Llewellyn officiating.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha Street in Humboldt, Nebraska. Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m.

Interment will be at the Salem U.C.C. Cemetery in Steinauer, Nebraska

Memorial contributions may be given to the family with a later designation. Condolences may be shared online at www.wherrymortuary.com

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Alex Karl Baumgartner, age 38, was called home to the Lord on Friday, June 9, 2023, in Fort Worth, Texas.

Alex was born on April 5, 1985 in Sabetha, Kansas the son of Stacey Baumgartner and Cindy (Wittmer) Baumgartner. Alex grew up in Hiawatha, Kansas with his two brothers, Nick and Jake, and his sister, Neah. As a teenager, he loved to play football, to participate in weightlifting, and to hang out with friends. Alex was always the life of the party!

After graduating from Hiawatha High School in 2003, Alex attended the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. While in Arizona, he met Katie Schaul the mother of his children. Alex and Katie moved back to Hiawatha, Kansas where Alex worked for Harley-Davidson in St. Joseph, Missouri. Alex and Katie were later divorced. A few years later, Alex and his father-in-law, Paul O’Connor, started a construction company where Alex worked as the Vice President of construction.

Alex eventually settled in Weatherford, Texas and had two beautiful daughters, Audrey, Tessa, and one son, Morgan. In his spare time, Alex loved to travel for work and work on big commercial projects, and volunteer at his local church. However, Alex- real passion was riding and working on motorcycles. But, even though he loved motorcycles, Alex put his family above everything else. Alex was devoted to his family especially his two daughters and one son who he loved immensely.

Alex was preceded in death by his grandparents, Denzel and Ethel Baumgartner and his grandfather, Carroll Wittmer.

Alex is survived by his parents, Stacey Baumgartner of Falls City, Nebraska and Cindy (Jerry Gilbert) Wittmer Of El Dorado, Kansas; his two daughters, Audrey Baumgartner, Tessa Baumgartner, and son, Morgan Baumgartner all of Weatherford, Texas; his two brothers, Nick of Weatherford, Texas and Jake Baumgartner of Sabetha, Kansas ; his sister, Neah (Kelly) Schmidt of Bentley, Kansas; his grandmother, Maridel Wittmer of Sabetha; his niece, Autumn Baumgartner of Falls City, Nebraska; his two nephews, Kurt Baumgartner of Sabetha and baby Schmidt; and his numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, June 16, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Prior to the service, a visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the mortuary. Interment will be in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alex Baumgartner Children- Educational Fund sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Elvon Fredrick VanDalsem, 83, of Fairview, Kansas passed from this life into the presence of his Savior on Monday, June 12, 2023, with his family by his side.

Elvon was born on December 30, 1939, to Fred and Verna Loyd VanDalsem, and he grew up in rural Fairview on a dairy farm. During his high school years at Fairview High School, he enjoyed showing his Brown Swiss dairy cows, and doing various FFA and 4-H projects. During these years, he developed a strong work ethic and a love for fixing things. On October 12, 1969, Elvon married Cleo Hutchinson and they were blessed with two children, Elaine and Scott. They lived in Fairview where Elvon and Cleo purchased a 3-acre lot on the east end of town. It was on this property that they built a home and where Elvon started his electrical business, Van- Electric. For more than 50 years, Elvon met the many electrical needs of the Brown and Nemaha County regions.

Elvon was a strong believer in hard work. It was a belief that he thrived upon and lived by every single day. His electrical customers were not the only ones to benefit from Elvon- propensity for hard work. He lovingly helped complete projects for his church, Fairview United Church of Christ, where he was a lifelong member, and he enjoyed helping his friends, neighbors, and the Fairview community with various projects.

Elvon gave his all, not only to his work, but also, to his two passions. Elvon is well known for his model trains and train memorabilia collection. Generations of school children, community members, and groups passing through Fairview toured this enormous collection. In September or October of each year, Elvon and his family began working on his second passion which was putting up the annual Christmas light display at their home. Every year during the Christmas season, people from around the area and beyond have driven by and through the property while enjoying the decorated red Caboose and the many other Christmas displays and lights. Whether showing his beloved train collection or watching people drive through their property at Christmas time, Elvon and Cleo loved the smiles that were brought to the faces of the children, their friends, and community members as they experienced these two spectacular sights.

Elvon is survived by his loving wife, Cleo, of Fairview; his daughter, Elaine (Duane) Mellenbruch of Lawrence. Kansas; his son, Scott (Michelle) VanDalsem of Goodyear, Arizona; his two grandchildren, Ben and Megan Mellenbruch; his brother, John, of Topeka, Kansas; and a large number of nieces, nephews, and extended family members who he loved dearly.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Fairview United Church of Christ in Fairview, Kansas. Prior to the service, a visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the church. Interment will be made in the Sabetha Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fairview United Church of Christ sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Pearl Nadine Cowley, 96, of Nortonville, KS died Saturday, June 10, 2023.

Funeral services will be 2:00 PM, Thursday, June 15, 2023, at the Nortonville Pleasant Grove Christian Church, Nortonville, KS with Dr. Rick L. Wright officiating. Burial will follow at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Effingham, KS. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at the church. Memorials are suggested to the Nortonville Pleasant Grove Christian Church or the Atchison County 4-H Scholarship Fund and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton and O’Trimble Funeral Home which has been entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.beckerdyer.com.

Pearl was born August 30th, 1926, one mile south of Nortonville, KS, to William & Irene Pearl (Stockwell) Locklin. At the age of sixteen she was baptized by her brother-in-law, Willis Schnelle. She graduated from Nortonville High School in 1944. After High School Pearl worked in Topeka in the office of John Morrell Meat Packing Plant for about four years. She then worked for Blish Mize in Atchison for 37 years, retiring in 1993. She was a member of the Nortonville Pleasant Grove Christian Church.

She married Don Cowley on August 1st, 1948, at the Nortonville Pleasant Grove Christian Church. They shared 71 years of marriage before Don- death on January 14, 2020. Around 1980 she and Don started working on antique cars. She enjoyed farming with Don, milking cows, making ice cream rolls, gardening and raising Boston Terriers.

Survivors include numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and all of her siblings, Catherine Ellerman, June Ellerman, Eva Schnelle, Edith Page and John Locklin.

Norma Jeanneret, 101, of Onaga, passed away on Monday, June 12, 2023, at the Eastridge Nursing Facility in Centralia.

She was born June 18, 1921, southwest of Onaga, the daughter of George and Marie Savago Graf. She attended Onaga Grade School and graduated from Onaga High School in 1939.

Norma worked at the Pyramid Garment Factory in Onaga for twenty-six years. She was a true farm wife, caring for the home and children, helping with outside farm chores, raising a large garden, and preserving produce for the winter. She was an excellent bread maker and will be remembered by her family and friends for her delicious “long johns”. She was also an accomplished seamstress, making much of the family- clothing.

She was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church at Coal Creek until it closed in 1972, where she served as President of the Altar Society. Since then, she has been a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Onaga. She was also a member of the Onaga Historical Society from 1993 to 2002, and served as secretary for many of those years. She was a member and former President of the Auxiliary at Community Hospital Onaga and a volunteer coordinator for the Hospital Gift Shop.

Norma enjoyed genealogy, reading, keeping up with current events, and working Sudoku and other puzzles. She sent many notes and greeting cards to friends and neighbors. Her grandchildren always received a birthday card with a $2.00 bill in it.

She was devoted to her family and enjoyed her grandchildren- activities. She clipped newspaper articles of their accomplishments and put them in scrapbooks, along with their school photos.

Norma married Wilbur S. Jeanneret on June 28, 1939 at St. Michael Catholic Church in Wheaton. After their marriage they rented and farmed farmland. In 1947 they bought a farm home and acreage eight miles north of Onaga in the Coal Creek Community. After raising their family they enjoyed traveling in their R.V. throughout the U.S. They also traveled outside the country to Switzerland, The Holy Land, the Philippines and Hawaii. Wilbur preceded her in death on July 3, 2011 after seventy-two years of marriage. After his passing, Norma remained on the farm until 2019, when she moved to Redbud Assisted Living in Onaga. In April of 2022 she moved to the care home at Centralia.

Norma was also preceded in death by three sons, Gerald and James Jeanneret, twins who died at birth, and Greg Jeanneret, a son-in-law, Elmer Suther, a daughter-in-law, Janet Jeanneret, a brother, Kenny Graf, and two sisters, Rose Marie Allen and Mary Frances Ard.

Survivors include three sons, Doug Jeanneret (Linda), Onaga, Kent Jeanneret, CMSgt (Ret), (Linda), New Baden, IL and Mark Jeanneret (Kathy), Topeka, two daughters, Sonja Suther, Seneca and Janet Hunsaker (Bill), Arvada, CO, twenty-four grandchildren, thirty-eight great grandchildren and thirteen great-great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 19th at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Onaga. Burial will follow in St. Patrick Cemetery at Coal Creek. Norma will lie in state from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Sunday at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Onaga. A Rosary will be prayed at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday at the church, followed by visitation until 5:00 p.m. Memorials are suggested to St. Patrick- Coal Creek Historical Church or Cemetery, or the Onaga Historical Society, 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

Sharon Ruth (Garrett) Meade, 77, Atchison, Kansas, passed Saturday, June 10, 2023.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, June 15, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph Church with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as celebrant. A parish rosary will be on Wednesday June 14th, at 5:30 P.M. with visitation to follow until 7:00 at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Sharon will be laid to rest at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the The V Foundation for Cancer Research or St. Jude- Childrens Hospital and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Sharon was born on August 19, 1945 in Atchison to Charles William and Virginia Ruth (Thomas) Garrett. She grew up in Atchison before moving to Effingham during high school. She graduated from Atchison County Community High School in 1963. As a child she enjoyed spending time with her grandparents and that was when she started rocking in a rocking chair. No matter what house she was in or porch she was on, she was rocking.

Sharon went to work at Snowden Mize in Atchison after graduation.

She married Robert Meade on February 10, 1968, at St. Ann- Church in Effingham, Kansas. As a young newlywed she watched her husband leave for the Army in November 1968. She continued working and praying for Robert- safe return from Vietnam.

In 1971, they welcomed a daughter, Bobbie Jo, and a son, Jeffrey Alan, in 1974. Sharon worked hard to help raise her family. When the kids were young, she worked at Medicalodge as a nurses’ aide. She worked at Rockwell as a security guard. She at one time worked three jobs; St. Joseph- Church, Theatre Atchison, and the Atchison Presbyterian Church as a custodian before retiring. Sharon was a dedicated mother and wife. She volunteered to be a room mother and head room mother during their grade school years. She was a member of the Community Club and served as Carnival Chairman as well. She never missed Jeff- ball games or Bobbi Jo- band concerts. She was commonly known as “mom” or “band mom”.

Sharon was a devoted catholic and a member of St. Joseph- Church. She was very involved in St. Matthew- circle, Alter Society, Daughter- of Isabella, and the Church Bazaar, where she could be found at the Fancy Booth. She was faithful with adoration, praying every Thursday at 1:00 P.M. She many times covered the following time slot as well. Sharon was a life time member of Girl Scouts, and received many awards, including the Honor Pin. She was a leader, trainer, consultant, and leader for her granddaughter- troop. She volunteered at The Amelia Earhart Festival, Junior Guild, and President of The Garden Club. She dedicated herself, along with Robert, to Ducks Unlimited earning a 25 year pin.

Sharon was a member of St Benedict Parish. She was a former member and past president of the Daughter- of Isabella. Sharon also participated in Matthew- Circle and Adoration at the church. She was a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts of America. Sharon was very active in her community and had a passion for volunteering,

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents Henry and Maude (Matthias) Garrett and Olin and Edna (Burch) Thomas, uncles Jim and Louie Garrett, Bud and Maxine Thomas. She was also preceded in death by a son-in-las, Justin Behler.

Sharon is survived by her husband Robert, of the home, her daughter Bobbi Jo (Pat Neumann), her son Jeffrey Alan, and a brother Richard (Virginia) Garrett; sister-in-laws, Gayla Tempton, Cheryl (Cliff) Lowry, and a number of nieces and nephews. She is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Sharon loved all her pets throughout the years, feeding her birds, flower gardening, and sports. She could always be found watching an NCAA basketball or football game, and NFL games. She entertained her kids and grandkids with songs and making animal sounds.

William Leroy Hayes, 77, of Falls City, NE, went to the lord on June 9, 2023, surrounded by family. He was born November 1, 1945 at Baltimore, MD to William Howard and Betty (Riddle) Hayes.

Leroy was the eldest of eight children and graduated from Falls City High School. He married Ruth E. Torrez on November 5, 1966 and they were later divorced. Leroy worked at Missouri Beef Packers, Woodings Verona Tool, and laboring jobs in Pawnee and Auburn until he retired in 2011. Leroy loved to hunt, fish and anything having to do with nature. He loved to play pool and in his later years he enjoyed going to the casino.

Leroy is survived by his daughters, Lisa Huddleston and her husband Ron and Sherry Huddleston and her husband Ed both of Falls City, son, William “Butch” and his wife Tina of Falls City, ten grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, sisters, Helen Mandery and Linda Waggoner both of Falls City and a brother, Larry Jo Hayes of Falls City. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Paul D. Hayes and Michael, in infancy and sisters, Debra Lear and Vicky Lowe.

His memorial service will be held on Friday, June 16, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Pastor Charles Musil officiating. Inurnment will be in Steele Cemetery.

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

Mary Ann Grollmes, 93, of Netawaka, Kansas, died on Saturday, June 11, 2023 in her home, surrounded by her children.

She was born on August 18, 1929, on a farm near Kelly, Kansas, the daughter of Suitbert and Elizabeth Hutfles Stallbaumer. She grew up on the family farm south of Corning; her parents moved to Corning in 1955. Mary Ann attended St. Patrick- Grade School.

On November 14, 1951, she married Andrew H. Grollmes at St. Patrick- Catholic Church in Corning. The couple made their home on a farm near Netawaka; operating a dairy. They celebrated 50 years of marriage before Andrew- death in 2002.

Mary Ann was a homemaker and helped on the dairy farm for many years. She had a daily routine to ensure everything was completed each day. She made a lot of homemade bread and always had warm bread ready when her children returned home from school. She always thought of others before herself and prayed daily for her children, grandchildren and all of the family. She helped watch grandchildren when she could and when she was able, she enjoyed attended their sporting events. She was a big fan of the Kansas City Royals and watched them on TV whenever possible.

She was a member of St. James Church in Wetmore and St. James Altar Society.
She was preceded in death by her husband on March 1, 2002 and a son, Edward Leo Grollmes on May 9, 1986. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Daniel Stallbaumer on November 1, 2003, Benedict L. Stallbaumer on February 23, 2006, Terry L. Stallbaumer on July 29, 2007, Margaret “Peggy” Osterhaus on October 7, 2007, Lucille Eisenbarth on April 9, 2008, Mike Stallbaumer on October 12, 2008, Barbara Osterhaus on August 9, 2015, James Stallbaumer on January 13, 2019, Lester Stallbaumer on May 20, 2020 and Ervan Stallbaumer on January 12, 2022.

Survivors of Mary Ann are five sons, Gary, and Lynn, of Netawaka, Victor (Becky) of Holton, KS, Linus (Jan) of Wetmore and Mark (Cindy) of Circleville, KS; four daughters, Donna (Ron) Toman of Olathe, KS, Clara (Dan) Child of Whiting, KS, Jane (Rick) Bailey of Lawrence, KS, and Karen (Mike) Gudenkauf of Seneca, a brother John (Susan) Stallbaumer of Hoyt, Kansas; a sister, Janice Jenkins of Paola, Kansas; 15 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; three bonus great grandchildren and three bonus great-great- grandchildren.

A rosary will be prayed at 7 PM on Monday, June 12, 2023, at St. James Catholic Church in Wetmore. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at St. James Church in Wetmore. Burial will be in the Wetmore Cemetery.

Memorials may be left in Mary Ann- memory to the St. James Catholic Church or the Holton Community Hospital Hospice, sent in care of the family.
To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .

Wayne W. Myers, 80, of rural Denton, Kansas met his Savior Thursday, June 8, 2023 at the Medical Lodge in Atchison, Kansas.

Wayne was born January 19, 1943, to William and Harriet (Gish) Myers, in Horton, KS. Wayne faced many heartaches and struggles throughout his life, starting the day after he was born.

Wayne grew up in Denton, working on the farm. Wayne worked various jobs throughout his life mostly farming and heavy equipment operation. In 1979, Wayne married Sheila Davis and they were married within 3 months of meeting. Wayne was a quiet, kind man. He never met an enemy! Later Wayne was blessed with one daughter, Bridget, and later 5 beautiful grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren who will all miss him terribly.

Wayne was preceded in death by his wife, Sheila in 2009, (the only time I ever saw him cry), by his parents, William and Harriet, stepmother Naomi, stepmother Betty, brother Gerald and brother-in-law Leonard Thompson.

Wayne was a member of the St. John- Lutheran Church in Bendena, Kansas.

He is survived by his daughter, Bridget, Atchison, KS

Grandchildren Sgt. Malachi Manis of Ft. Campbell, Kentucky; Caleb Manis of St. Joseph, MO, Sierra Manis (Austin), Dakota and Gracelynn Taylor all of Atchison, KS.

Brother Lewis (Patricia) of Troy, KS and sister Sylvia Thompson of Denton, Kansas

Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

FUNERAL: Graveside, Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 11:30 AM

At the Denton Cemetery, Denton, KS

Visitation: the family will receive friends at Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Troy, Kansas from 10:00 to 11:00

Memorials: Wayne will surely be missed by all who knew him, but we are comforted by the fact he- finally home. Donations in Wayne- honor could be made to Alzheimer's Association for Parkinson- Research.

www.harmanrohde.com

Kathleen M. Navinskey, 68, of Atchison, Kansas died June 9, 2023, at Medicalodge of Atchison.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, June 16,2023, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Atchison with Fr. Jeremy Heppler, OSB as Celebrant. Visitation will be held from 1-2PM, the day of service at the church. Burial will follow in the Sumner Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested for final expenses. Condolences for the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com

Kathleen was born on November 30, 1954, in Atchison, Kansas, the daughter of William and Freida (Hanf) Navinskey. She graduated from Atchison High School in 1972, and was a member of DECA and 4-H. She worked as a supervisor for Amerisource that supplied medical equipment.

Survivors of Kathleen are sisters; Diane (Curt) Paste, Lisa (Jack) Hill, Angela (Justin Coffelt) Navinskey, brothers; Leo (Regina) Navinskey, Daniel Navinskey and sister-in-law Patty Navinskey. She is preceded by her parents and brother Steven Navinskey.

Mary C. Glathar, age 77 of Auburn, passed away Wednesday, June 7, 2023, in Auburn.

Survivors include her children Laura and husband Jay Nutter of Panama, Carla and husband Thomas Farrell of Plant City, FL, Ryan Glathar and fiancé Taryn Merideth of Oak Grove, KY; grandchildren Bailey Thomas and husband Dakota, Owen and Sierran Nutter, Tyler and Riley Farrell, Kirsten Olson and Ryker Glathar; great-grandchild Daisy Thomas; brother and sister-in-law Gary and Tina Frenzel of Shubert; sister and brother-in-law Joan and Jon Allen of Effingham, KS; sister-in-law Pat Frenzel of Stella; other relatives and many friends.

A memorial service will be Wednesday, June 14, 2:00 p.m. at the Stella Community Church in Stella. Visitation will be at the funeral home in Auburn Tuesday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 6:00 to 8:00. Burial of ashes will be later in Bedford Cemetery at Howe.

Memorials, in lieu of flowers, are suggested to Bedford Cemetery or Stella Community Church.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.

Leah-Rae Cox, 87, Atchison, Kansas Died Friday, May 26, 2023 at her residence.

Leah was born April 5, 1936 in Oakland, Nebraska the daughter of Warren E. and Catherine Schoenfeldt Carlson. She attended and graduated from Mount St. Scholastica Academy in Atchison.

Leah worked at J. G. Decorating before taking the role of an executive secretary at L.F.M. Corporation, Rockwell International Corporation and then Bradken Corporation for more than fifty years in Atchison, Kansas.

She and Carl Leon Cox were united in marriage in Atchison, Kansas. Mr. Cox preceded her in death.

Survivors include her daughter, Kim Ruhnke of Atchison, KS; her one grandchild, Zachary Ruhnke, Atchison, KS; and two great grandchildren, Brayden Ruhnke and Emma Ruhnke.

Graveside service will be Monday June 12, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. at Sunset Memory Gardens with Rev. Jeremy Heppler, OSB officiating.

N. Jean Jones, 93, of Falls City, NE, passed away June 7, 2023 at Falls City.

Her funeral will be held on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 10:30 AM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Reverend Fay Ann Blaylock officiating. Interment will be in the Jones Family Cemetery.

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

Eleanor M. (Meyer) Hewitt, 100, of Sabetha, Kansas passed away Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha.

Eleanor was the third child of five children born to Henry Lee Meyer and Maudie Frances (Williams) Meyer of rural Oneida, Kansas. She attended school at Oneida and graduated with the class of 1940.

On December 5, 1939, Eleanor eloped to Kansas City, Missouri and married her first love, Donald Ellsworth Hewitt. They made their home on a farm one-mile northeast of Oneida. In 1942, they welcomed to the world their only son, Ellsworth Joy Hewitt. Eleanor and Donald were married for 52 years before he passed away on May 22, 1992. After Donald- death, Eleanor remained on the farm for a few years before moving to Sabetha.

As a young woman, Eleanor worked as a bookkeeper at the Oneida Elevator for a short time. Then, she was appointed as a United States Postal Service employee. Eleanor worked at the Oneida and Sabetha Post Offices for 32 years until her retirement in 1987.

On April 5, 1997, she married Wilbur (Bill) G. Thompson, and they enjoyed their retirement years in Arizona and Sabetha. Bill passed away on August 28, 2011. In 2014, Eleanor moved into the Apostolic Christian Home where she resided until her death.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents; her two husbands; her son; her two brothers, Joy and Gerald; and her two sisters, Mavis Milne and Freda Kenney.

She is survived by her four grandsons, Patrick (Vicky) Hewitt of Phillipsburg, Kansas, Michael (Melinda) Hewitt of Circleville, Kansas, Richard (Sally) Hewitt of Prosser, Washington, and Scott Hewitt of Holton, Kansas; her daughter-in-law, Sandra Hewitt of Holton, Kansas; her ten great-grandchildren, and her ten great- great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, June 12, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Prior to the service, a visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until service time at the mortuary. The interment will be in the Oneida Cemetery west of Oneida. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Oneida Cemetery and the Sabetha Methodist Church sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Leora Runkles, 78, of Falls City, NE, passed away June 7, 2023 at Falls City. She was born November 23, 1944 at Sylvan Grove, KS to John Franklin and Leona (Sulsar) Cuffman

She married William Runkles Sr. in 1970 at Nebraska City.

Leona was raised in Sylvan Grove. When married the couple established their home in Nebraska City and had lived in Auburn and in 1994 they moved to Falls City and she has lived here since. She was a homemaker.

Leora is survived by her husband, William, Sr., of Falls City, son, William, Jr. of Falls City, five grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Christina Ahlquist, brother, John Cuffman, sisters, Sharon Massey and Betty Watson.

Leora has been cremated and no services are planned at this time.

Steven Ray Lock, a lifelong mechanic and farmer, passed away unexpectedly on June 6, 2023 at the University of Kansas Health System Hospital in Topeka. Steve was born on October 15, 1952 to Harold and Eunice Lock of Hiawatha. He and his brother, Stan, helped with the family farm while attending Hamlin Public Schools. Steve was an active member of the Hamlin Pied Pipers 4-H Club and was proud of his first-place award at the Kansas State Fair in the trailer-backing competition. Steve graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1970.

Upon graduation, he attended NCKA Vo-Tech in Beloit where he learned diesel mechanics. Steve later received a draft letter and chose to join the Army National Guard where he received honors in field radio mechanics. Upon returning home, he worked for the Case dealership before he opened his own independent tractor repair in 1976. He moved his business, Steve's Tractor Repair, to town in 1983, retiring in 2019.

Steve met the love of his life, Linda Holeman, on a blind date. They married in 1982 and added three sons to their family: Matthew in 1983, Jared in 1984, and Greg in 1997.

Steve served on the Hiawatha School Board for 16 years and was able to present all three of his sons with their diplomas. He remained a huge supporter of the Brown County 4-H program all throughout his life and enjoyed watching his kids and grandkids in later years. He will be remembered as a man who made a difference in the production agriculture and ag mechanics industry within and around the community. Steve loved a challenging mechanical situation and could adapt and overcome any obstacle.

Steve never knew a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone—sometimes driving his family crazy. With his good sense of humor, he enjoyed teasing others. Steve had a need for speed and loved air shows, drag racing, and tractor pulling. He loved to drive and enjoy the countryside and was the chauffeur to many KSU bowl games.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents and brother Stanley. He is survived by his wife Linda and sons Matthew, Jared (Kristin), Greg (fiancé Kelly), and granddaughter Lainey and grandson Rhett.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM Monday, June 12, 2023 at St. Ann- Catholic Church, Hiawatha with Father Dan Gardner as celebrant.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 12 noon Sunday where a parish rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM Sunday June 11 at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, Hiawatha, followed by visitation from 6:30 to 8 pm. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hiawatha High School Ag Department, Hiawatha FFA Chapter, or Brown County 4H which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Richard Dee” Dick” Christensen, 86, of Atchison, KS passed away peacefully on June 1, 2023, in Henderson, NV.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, June 12th, 2023, at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, Atchison, KS, with burial following at the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Lansing, KS. There will be a luncheon to follow the burial at the Riverfront Community Center, Leavenworth, KS. The family will receive friends from 4-6:00 pm on Sunday, June 11th, 2023, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Christensen Family Scholarship Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Dick was born September 24, 1936, in Tescott, KS. He was the son of Frank and Ruth (Horting) Christensen. He joined the United States Army and served most of his time in Germany. Dick was then employed by the United State Postal Service. He became a steward for the Postal Union during his 40-year tenure as a Rural Letter Carrier. During this time, he also used his skills as a carpenter doing sheetrock and ceiling texture in many homes in the Atchison area.

After retirement, Dick pursued many hobbies including learning how to play the guitar. That led him to join a small band called the Back Porch Band. He enjoyed crafting homemade beer and wine which he shared with many as well as the love of gardening. Dick was also a member of the Sacred Heart Church and the VFW in Atchison.

Dick is survived by 6 children: Rob Fitzgerald (Kris) of Lawrence, KS, Richard Christensen (Robin) of Cave Creek, AZ, Randy Fitzgerald of Lawrence, KS, Betty Hutson of Henderson, NV, Bobbi Davis of Henderson, NV and Rodney Christensen of Shawnee, KS. He also had 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Edith and sister LaDonna Stafford.

Eugene (Gene) William Weishaar, Wathena, Kansas, age 78 passed away peacefully surrounded by his family June 3, 2023. Gene was born November 10, 1944, the third oldest child of Arthur and Loretta (Noll) Weishaar.

Gene graduated from ACCHS in 1963, joined the Air Force in 1965 and was honorably discharged in 1969 at the Rank of E-5. He served in Goose Bay Labrador, Canada and Minot, North Dakota as a jet engine/airplane mechanic where he formed lifelong friendships with his fellow servicemen. He then worked at Rockwell International (Bradken) as a machinist/quality control manager until his retirement. In 2004 he went to work for I&M Machine and Fabrication, retiring in 2014.

Gene- hobbies included woodworking, golfing, a good game of pitch, and hunting and fishing with his kids and grandkids. There was nothing he couldn’t fix, build or repurpose with his many talents. His children will remember his strong hands, kind heart and perseverance. He thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors and family gatherings, especially Sundays spent with family at Grandma and Grandpa Weishaar-.

Gene was a faithful member of St. Joseph- Catholic Church of Wathena for over 44 years. There was not a part of the church Gene did not touch. He served as Eucharistic Minister for over 30 years and obtained status of Grand Knight and Chancellor of the Knights of Columbus Council 9532. Gene will be fondly remembered as Grandpa Gene by the many youths he taught in religious education.

He was an active member of Wathena American Legion Post 161, serving as Chaplain, Color Guard and Bugler.

Gene married DeAnn Marie Huff on August 22, 1970. DeAnn preceded him in death on June 6, 1982. Gene then met and married Jennifer A. Mercer on July 27, 1990. She preceded him in death on July 13, 2012. He was also preceded in death by his parents, infant sister Alberta Weishaar, brothers -in-law Jon Larson and Mike Lee.

Survivors include six children: David Weishaar, Troy, Ks; Annette Weishaar, Las Vegas, NV; Paula (Scott) Morris, Holton, Ks; Peggy (Tim) Franken, Troy, Ks; Duane (Jamie) Weishaar, Troy, Ks and Jana Campbell, St. Joseph, MO., 13 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren. Also, Sisters Betty Larson, Roberta Spradling, Theresa (Bob) Freeman, Alvera Lee and Pauline (Tom) Lee, brother Don (Pat) Weishaar and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mass of Christian burial Saturday, June 10, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph- Catholic Church, Wathena, Kansas. Visitation Friday, June 9, 2023, beginning with rosary at 5:30 P.M. followed by visitation from 6:00P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the church. Interment St. Joseph- Catholic Cemetery, Nortonville, Kansas, following the service at 1:30 P.M. Friends may call after 12 noon Thursday at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home in Wathena, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to St. Joseph- Catholic Church Renovation Fund, Knights of Columbus Council 9532 or Wathena American Legion Post 161 c/o Harman Rohde Funeral Home PO Box 426, Wathena, Kansas 66090.

www.harmanrohde.com

Louise Pickman, 91, Fishers, Indiana, died Wednesday, March 8, 2023.

Memorial services will be Saturday, June 10, 2023, at 11:30 A.M. in the chapel of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home, with Deacon, Ron Zishka, officiating. Visitation with the family from 10:00 A.M. until 11:30 A.M. Memorial contributions are suggested to St Benedict Parish or Mt. Calvary Cemetery and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Louise was born August 25, 1931, in Kansas City, Missouri, the daughter of Harvey and Matle (Logan) Tompson. She attended school in Kansas City graduating from West Port High School.

On November 27, 1952, she and Carl Pickman were united in marriage at St. Patrick- Church with Rev. Cyprian Nordhus, OSB presiding. Mr. Pickman preceded her in death on October 13, 2008.

Louise began her work history with Southwestern Bell. She also worked at the Tea Room on the campus of Mount St. Scholastica. Louise was employed with Domann Drug for a time, she also owned her owned fabric store in downtown Atchison. Her last major employment was at the Super 8 in Atchison.

Louise and her husband, Carl, were members of St. Joseph Church for over 50 years and she was active in the altar society.

Survivors include two sons, Jim (Lyn) Pickman, Luxembourg, WI; David Pickman, Atchison, KS; three daughters, Peggy (Robert) Shine, Fishers, IN; Sarah Kinast, Haven, KS; Susan (Russ) Karch, Manchester, TN; an adopted Mount St. Scholastica daughter, Pat Peterson; fourteen grandchildren and twenty-three great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a grandson, Thomas Wood; a granddaughter, Angela Kathleen Shine Gibbs; a great grandson, Madden Alexander Pickman; two sons-in-law, Richard Carlson, Dean Kinast; a brother Orville Tompson; and two sisters, Hazel Hutchens and Betty Medley.

Mary Margaret (Billman) “Marge” Morgan, age 85, formerly of Denison, KS, passed away unexpectedly, June 3, 2023 in Denison, TX. She was born on March 6, 1938 in Lyons, KS, the daughter of Carl G. and Mary Madeline (Gabel) Billman.

Marge attended Holton High School and graduated from Circleville High School in 1956.

Marge worked for the State of Kansas Architecture Department for 27 years, retiring in 2000.

She married her high school sweetheart, Darrel Dean Morgan, on Valentines Day in 1956; he preceded her in death on October 29, 2018 after 62 years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Mary Billman and a son, Mark E. Morgan.

Darrel and Marge attended countless wrestling matches, baseball, softball and football games for their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Gigi was always their biggest cheerleader. There was never a wonder if Marge loved you or not, she made it very well known, that is the greatest blessing she leaves behind with her family. She will be missed by so many.

Marge moved to Denison, TX, with her daughter Cindy, after Darrel passed away in 2018.

Survivors include her daughter, Cindy Morgan (Larry) of Denison, TX; son, Rodney D. Morgan of Denison, TX; daughter-in-law, DeAnn Jackson of Wamego, KS; 8 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; dearest friends, Maddy Sterrett of Holton, KS, Lee Collins of Holton, KS and Lori Plaude of Valley Falls, KS and so many more nieces, nephews and family members that consider her their Gigi.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 9, 2023 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, KS. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Burial will follow at the Holton Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Childrens Mercy Kansas City 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

Lonnie Dale Goff, 66, of Falls City, NE, passed away June 3, 2023 at his home. He was born on June 28, 1956 in Lincoln, NE to Dale Elbrage Goff and Mary Jo (Canterbury) Goff. He spent most of his life growing up in Falls City and graduated from Falls City High School in 1974. He later graduated from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln with a major in Agriculture Economics.

He married Kimberly Yoder in Falls City on October 20, 1979 and to this union were born four sons, Lukas (Megan) of Falls City, Daniel (Cassondra) of Salem, David (DeAnna) of Salem and Matthew (Laura) of Falls City. He is survived by his wife Kim, his sons, mother, Mary Jo Tangeman of Falls City, sister, Connie (Jeff) Laney of Smithville, MO, brother, Ladd (Cindy) of York, NE and sister, Cheryl (Mike) Finck of Falls City, brother-in-law, Steve (Linda) Yoder of Seattle WA, and 13 very loved grandchildren. He was a special Grandpa to Jessica Burns of Falls City. He also shared his fatherly love with nine exchange students. They include; Sandro Kalbermatter (Switzerland), Tomas Franco (Brazil), Florian Hoffman (Germany), Alex Olsen (Norway), Alessandro Bosio (Italy), Rasmus Nurminen (Finland), Eamon Kunze (Germany), Joost Tipke (Germany) and Patrick Micheelsen (Denmark). He loved learning about new cultures and customs as well as sharing our great state of Nebraska with them.

At an early age, he became interested in amateur radio and was a member of the Falls City and Hiawatha amateur radio clubs. He was always proud of his “Extra” license earned for his ability to transmit morse code at over twenty words per minute. His official call sign was WE0C.

He became employed at Stalder Cattle Company in 1982 working closely with Merle Stalder as manager of the cattle feedlot and large farming operation. In his farm operation, he always had a high regard for environmental and animal stewardship. Early in his ag career, Lonnie carried on a family tradition as a third-generation pork producer. He took a special interest in the Poland China breed and was an active member of the Quad County Pork Producers organization.

Lonnie took an active role as working member of the Itha Krumme arboretum board. He was an avid hunter and supporter of gun safety. He initiated the Richardson County Hotshots shooting sports 4H club, serving as a leader for many years. He highly supported his four sons through Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts including helping all of them to complete their Eagle Scout community service projects. He was a member of the Falls City Elks Lodge.

He was a confirmed member of First United Methodist Church in Falls City and served on many leadership committees. He received an FFA State Degree and was instrumental in starting the local FFA Alumni chapter.

He remained active as a mentor with Goff Farms in farming with his four sons. Lonnie treasured his family, many friends and business associates. He passed away at his home near Falls City, surrounded by his family. He was very appreciative of the loving care received from his AseraCare Hospice Team.

A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church, 17th and Harlan St. in Falls City on Friday, June 9th at 3:00 PM with Reverend Michael Brown officiating. Family will receive friends at the church on Thursday, June 8th from 6:00-8:00 PM for visitation.

Eutiva JoAnn Dunn, 102 of Omaha, NE (formerly of Falls City, NE), passed away June 3, 2023 at Omaha. She was born August 23, 1920 at Bridgeport, NE to Louis T. and Dorthea (Kentopp) Townsend.

JoAnn graduated from Falls City High School with the class of 1937 and after 1 year of college at Peru State she worked with and married her husband, Wayne E. Dunn. During the war they moved to Bremerton, WA where he worked in the ship yards and she worked at the Bremerton Branch of the First National Bank of Seattle. Following this she worked ten years at the Falls City Creamery, four years at International Harvester in Falls City, six years for the Cohn Foundation in Oklahoma City and twenty years with the State of Oklahoma Retirement System where she was an accountant. When she returned to Richardson County, she operated the Salem Post Office for six years and retired at the age of 83. In the years since she has lived in the Falls City, Henderson, NV and had just recently taken up residence in Omaha, NE.

Her hobbies included square dancing, bowling and sudoku. She loved animals and passionately worked to help reduce homeless dogs and cats by finding them homes and promoting spaying and neutering.

She is survived by her son, Tom and his wife Karen of Plattsmouth, NE, grandchildren, Tim Dunn and Gina Long, great-grandchildren, Katie, Skylar and Jace Long and Nathan Dunn. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 9, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Steele Cemetery with Elysia McGill officiating.

No viewing, visitation or register book to sign.

Matilda “Irene” Wood, 96, of Atchison, KS died on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at the Atchison Medicalodge.

Graveside services and burial will be held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, June 7th, 2023, at the Doniphan Cemetery, Doniphan, KS. No visitation will be held. Memorial contributions are suggested to help with final expenses and may be sent in care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home who is handling the arrangements. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Irene was born on July 4th, 1926, in Doniphan County, Kansas, the daughter of George F. and Matilda (Scholz) Wood. She graduated from Atchison High School in 1945. She worked as a telephone operator for the former Pacific SW Bell Telephone Company (1952-1953), and then the Pacific NW Bell Telephone Company (1953-1986), retiring on July 31, 1986. She was a member of the Haller Lake Baptist Church, Seattle, WA. She moved to Atchison in 2022 from Kuna, Idaho. Irene volunteered at the Senior Center after retirement and enjoyed traveling and took two ocean cruises.

She was never married, survivors include several nieces, nephews to great, great, great nieces and nephews. Her parents, four brothers, George, Henry, Woodrow, and Everett Wood, and five sisters, Frances Wood, Mildred L. Wood, Ruth A. Jacobson, Grace L. Cash, and Anna M. Fitkin preceded her in death.

Ashley Lynn Hill, 43, of Highland, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2023 surrounded by family at KU Medical Center after a sudden illness.

Ashley was born February 3, 1980 in St. Joseph, the daughter of Leslie (Danbury) Kinkead and Sam Hill. Ashley spent her early years in St. Joseph attending Hall and Pershing Elementary and Robidoux Middle schools before moving to Highland in 1994. She graduated from Highland High School in 1998.

After suffering a spinal cord injury in a car accident her sophomore year, Ashley learned to walk again with assistance and achieved her goal of walking down the aisle with classmates at graduation to accept her diploma. Over the years, Ashley was an inspiration to everyone she met as she overcame numerous health challenges in the 28 years since her injury. During a year-long stay at the Highland Care Center in 2003 she was a ray of light to all the residents becoming close to many of her high school friends’ grandparents. Ashley was named a Paul Harris Fellow through the St. Joseph Rotary East in the mid-2010s. Ashley loved the Kansas City Chiefs, music, animals, astronomy, and had an affinity for those in need. Her favorite volunteer work was socializing foster cats and kittens. She is reunited with her best friend, Carrie, her beloved cat who was always by her side. Ashley was the best ‘Aunt Tildy’ to her nephews Lincoln, Knox and Barrett Yurth--the light in her life.

Her family would like to thank all of her therapists, nurses, doctors and caregivers, especially her mother, who never left her side.

She is survived by her parents, Leslie (Bill) Kinkead, Highland, and Sam Hill, Springfield; her younger brother Deven (Kristin) Yurth, Highland; her elder brothers Sam (Alecia) Hill, Surprise, Ariz. and Harold (Annetta) Hill, Springfield; sister Diane Bloznik; grandmother, Charlotte Shaw Danbury, St. Joseph; uncle Jim (Monica) Danbury, St. Joseph; beloved aunt and caregiver Lisa Danbury, Kansas City, Mo.; stepsisters Suzie (Mike) Smith, Angie (Rick) Eberly, Molly Wollenberg; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ashley was preceded in death by her stepfather, Jerry (Gloria) Yurth, grandfather, Jerry (Maxine Moore) Danbury, grandparents Clarence and Mabel (Cohn) Hill, aunt Sallye (Rollin deceased) (Hill) Marsh, and uncle Jerry Michael (Gwenda) Danbury.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Falci Institute for Spinal Cord Injuries at Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado or the Northland Animal Welfare Society in Kansas City, Missouri, sent to Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 302 W. Main Street, Highland, Kansas 66035.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland after 10 a.m. Thursday where the family will meet from 5 until 8 p.m. for visitation

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 9, 2023, at Highland Cemetery.

Following graveside services, everyone invited to the Highland Community Center, 407 W Avenue, Highland, for food and to continue to celebrate Ashley- life.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Ethel Mae Woolsey, 97, of Hiawatha, with family by her side, went to be with Jesus, Saturday June 3, 2023.

Ethel Mae was born in St. Joseph, Missouri, March 24, 1926, one of two daughters born to Harley and Goldie Flay Caddell Willian and had lived in Hiawatha all of her life. She attended schools here and later graduated from Hiawatha High School with the class of 1945. Ethel Mae had worked as an aide for a few years at Oak Ridge Acres Nursing Home.

Mrs. Woolsey was a longtime member of Bethany United Church of Christ in Hiawatha where she had been very active through the years, teaching Sunday school, Women- Group, and was the ladies quilting group. She was active in the auxiliary to the VFW and American Legion, both of Hiawatha where she had served as president of both organizations at one time. She enjoyed sewing, embroidery, and maintaining her own home and lawn up until a few years ago.

She was married to Royal W. “Roy” Woolsey, December 2, 1946, at the Baptist Church in Hiawatha. They had lived 6 miles west of town for a number of years, before moving to town. Ethel Mae was the bookkeeper for his backhoe and trenching business. He died July of 1995.

Ethel Mae was also preceded in death by her parents, and a sister Martha Carnes in December 2006.

Survivors include a daughter Nancy Campbell (Don) of St. Joseph, grandchildren- families: Rebecca Lower and family, Natalie McBreen and family, Nathan Shorb and family.

A Celebration of Ethel Mae- life is planned for 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at Bethany United Church of Christ with Shane Spangler officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

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 Church.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Bethany United Church of Christ or NEK Hospice which may be sent to the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434.
www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

Judy Mae Young, 68, of Rushville died June 3, 2023, at her home surrounded by her family.

No services will be held. Cremation is under the direct care of the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home in Atchison, Kansas. Memorials are suggested to the Mosaic Cancer Center. Condolences for the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com

Judy was born on August 16, 1954, in Atchison, Kansas, the daughter of Roy and Shirley (Watts) Lewman. She married Charles Young in 1974 and they later divorced, they had three children together. She worked in management positions in retail sales and food services. In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, quilting and sewing.

Judy is survived by her daughters; Michelle (Terry) Hess and Monica (Toby) Stevens, son; Matthew Young, six grandchildren and three great- grandchildren, brothers; Raymond Lewman, Bobby Lewman, David Lewman, sisters; Peggy Engeman, Sharon Peuker and Carol Lewman She is preceded in death by her parents and long-time companion Harry Peabody.

Jerry L. Botts, 86, of Atchison, KS, passed away on Thursday, June 1ST , 2023, at his home.

A graveside service and burial will be at 11:15 am on Thursday, June 8th, 2023, at Mt. Vernon Cemetery with Rev. Brad Greene officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 AM Thursday at the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Atchison Humane Society or The Atchison Salvation Army and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences to the family may be left online at www.beckerdyer.com.

Jerry was born May 16, 1937, on a farm near Cameron, MO, to Jennings and Alma (Hawkins) Botts. He graduated from Cameron High School in 1955 and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from the University of Missouri in 1961. He was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps upon graduation from college, and served on active duty from 1961 through 1963. His active duty included a tour with the 3rd Tank Battalion as a Platoon Commander in Okinawa, Japan. Jerry served as an active reservist for eight years after release from active duty. He was employed by Oppenheimer Industries, Inc. in Kansas City, MO, and later by Commerce Bank of Kansas City. In 1977 he and his family moved to Atchison, KS, where he was a Vice President of The Exchange National Bank for 24 years. Jerry enjoyed golfing, gardening, investing and maintaining several hundred walnut trees that he planted shortly after his retirement. He loved hosting picnics with his lunch buddies at his tree farm, where they enjoyed his burgers and chili. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and a proud Marine! Jerry was named 2019 Forest Stewardship Landowner of the Year by the Kansas Forestry Association. He was a member of the American Legion and served as an advisory board member of The Salvation Army for many years. He was best known for his witty humor, his sense of adventure (including skydiving & international travel), and eagerly looked forward to daily Happy Hour at home at 5:00pm sharp. Jerry was a man of incredible discipline, a trait that became ingrained during his time in the Corps, and one that he instilled in his children.

He and Kathleen Barb, his wife of 56 years, were married in Bonner Springs, KS, on August 14th, 1966. She survives of the home. Additional survivors are daughter Melanie Viola (Ivano), East Windsor, NJ, son Bryan Botts (Midge), Shawnee, KS, and grandchildren Morgan Botts, Mallory Botts, Shen Viola and Sukanya Viola. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Charles R. Botts, and an infant sister.

Kenny Holthus, age 74 of Elk Creek, passed away Thursday, June 1, 2023, in Auburn.

Survivors include his wife Sharyl of Elk Creek; daughter Amanda Larkin of Charleston, NC; son Jamie Helton of Fayetteville, AR; grandchildren Chloe, Avery, and Cheyenne; great-grandson Waylon; sisters Sharon McGee, Velda Stewart; brothers-in-law Sam (Patti) Borrell, Delbert Borrell, Dan (Diane) Borrell; numerous other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be Tuesday, June 6, 10:30 a.m. at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn. Burial will follow in St. John (Stone) Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home Monday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Memorials are suggested to family choice.

Services are entrusted to Hemmingsen Funeral Home of Auburn.

Julie Davis, 60, of Reserve, KS, passed away June 1, 2023 at Lincoln, NE. She was born October 5, 1962 at Falls City, NE, to Ronald and Delores (Noyes) Feighner.

She married Kenneth Davis on July 6, 1981 at Reserve.

Julie was raised at Falls City and attended Falls City High School. She was a homemaker and had various jobs but was best known for working at White Cloud Casino as the kitchen manager. She loved bingo, playing cards and her family. She was a member of Church of Christ Church at Sabetha.

Julie is survived by her husband, Kenneth of Reserve, sons, Kevin and his wife Lindsay of Falls City, Zach and his wife Sarah of Highland, KS, Kyle of Reserve, mother, Delores Feighner of Falls City, brother, Jeff Feighner and his wife Kim of Wilbur, NE, sister, Christa Feighner and her husband Zach Hammonds of Falls City and seven grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father and a brother, Rick Feighner.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Cornelison Cemetery at Reserve with Pastor Eric Hicks officiating.

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

Viewing will begin at noon on Sunday and last until 5:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral.

Edward Leo “Ed” Hund, 96, of Meriden, died Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at his home.

He was born October 17, 1926 at Leavenworth, the son of Francis Joseph and Mary Katherine Schmina Hund. Ed was a farmer all his life and also worked as a tuber operator at the Goodyear Company in Topeka for 31 years, retiring in 1982. He was a U.S. Army Veteran of WWII, serving in the U.S. Army Engineers from March 30, 1945 to November 20, 1946. He was a member of St. Aloysius Catholic Church and a charter member of the Knights of Columbus Council of the Church. He was a lifetime member of Meriden V.F.W. Post #10815.

He married Avis Jean Edwards on February 2, 1949 at Leavenworth, she preceded him in death on August 5, 2002.

Survivors include two sons, Frank Hund, Meriden, James Edward (Jim Peterson) Hund, Meriden, seven daughters, Katherine (Frank) Serio, Harvey, LA, Avis (Wayne) Fletcher, Meriden, Linda (Jim) Cummings, Meriden, Connie (Tom) Rangel, Topeka, Janet Hund-Bigley, Meriden, Joyce Harden, Meriden, Lora Hund-Gutierrez, Meriden, one brother, Robert Hund, Beverly, MO, 27 grandchildren, 50 plus great-grandchildren and 20 plus great-great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Charlotte Gregory, three sisters, Monica Fink, Eleanor Parr, Rita Dahl and two brothers, Lawrence Hund and Myron Hund.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, Meriden. Burial will follow at St. Aloysius Cemetery. Knights of Columbus Rosary at 6:00 PM, Monday, June 12, 2023 with Visitation from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Church. Memorials suggested to St. Aloysius Cemetery in care of the Church or Barnett Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 602m Oskaloosa, KS 66066.
barnettfamilyfh.com

Charlotte Ruth Graham Orton, 78, of Sabetha, Kansas, entered eternal rest on Thursday, June 1, 2023 at the Sabetha Hospital in Sabetha, Kansas.

Charlotte was born on March 9, 1945, in Hamburg, Iowa to Clarence David Graham and Margaret Ruth (Ditmars) Graham. Charlotte- early years were spent on the family farms near Farragut and Sidney, Iowa. She attended Sunny Side Primary, a one-room schoolhouse, Farragut Schools then graduated from Sidney High School with the class of 1963. On December 19, 1964, she married her high school sweetheart, La Verne Everett Orton, at the Methodist Church in Sidney, Iowa. Together they started building a family and home following La Verne- career across Nebraska and Iowa. In 1984, Charlotte and La Verne would make their final move to Sabetha, Kansas where their family continues to call home. Charlotte and La Verne welcomed three children: a son, Lance and two daughters, Julie and Kristen.

Charlotte took great pride in her responsibilities at home, at work, and in the community. At home, she cared for her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, providing organization, love, and devotion. She enjoyed hosting family gatherings, had a love for her flower gardens, and dedicated many hours to following her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren- activities. Over the years, Charlotte shared her talents with others by way of her creativity and compassion as a paraprofessional, bookkeeper, interior designer, and florist. In addition to being a member of the Sabetha Methodist Church, she was a member of countless local organizations including the Sabetha PEO Chapter and Sabetha Booster Club.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Margaret; her brothers Howard, Don, Lester, and Leonard Graham; her sister June Graham Brown; and her son Lance Orton.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 58 years, La Verne; two daughters, Julie (Steve) Howard, Kristen (Scott) Lekatz; daughter-in-law Linda (John) Orton Hopp; seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren; other relatives and dear friends.

Funeral service will be held Monday, June 5, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Sabetha Methodist Church in Sabetha. Prior to the funeral service, a visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Sabetha Methodist Church. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Sabetha Methodist Church or the Stormont Vail Health - Cotton O’Neil Cancer Center in Topeka, Kansas sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences can be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.

Virgil E Simpson, 98, of Falls City, Nebraska passed away May 31, 2023 in Kansas City, KS. He was born October 06, 1924 to John and Nora (Edie) Simpson in Emerson, Iowa and grew up in the White Cloud, Kansas area. After school he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving during WWII where he received the Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign Medal, the American Area Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. After his service in the Navy, Virgil worked in several vocations from Florida to Omaha, NE, finally settling down in Falls City, Nebraska where he worked as a carpenter for Krumme Building & Supply and Woodings Verona Tool Company.

He married Marie Cavanaugh on July 11, 1966. She passed away May 08, 2001. They established their home on West 15th Street which soon became the neighborhood house where all their children and friends gathered.

Virgil was an avid fisherman with stories as big as the fish he caught. In his younger years he also enjoyed hunting and he and Marie bowled on several bowling leagues. He was a member of the local VFW and St Paul Lutheran Church (20th and Towle).

Virgil is survived by his children, Cindy McClean and husband Michael of Centennial CO, Fred Simpson and his wife Rhonda of Holland, NE and Robert “Ed” Simpson of Denton, TX. Three stepdaughters, Linda Penegar and husband Robert, Basehor KS, Marcella Cavaness and husband Carl of southern Leavenworth County, KS and Diana Hankins and husband Dan of Falls City, NE. Thirteen grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson. He is also survived by a dear son-like friend, Jerry McKim and his wife Nancy, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, two brothers, Clarence and Paul and five sisters, Elsie Morris, Naomi Wood, Ruby Allen, Maxine French and Ardith Rhodd.

His funeral will be held on Friday, June 2, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Dorr and Clark Funeral Home with Reverend Jason Boetcher. Interment will be in Steele Cemetery. Military graveside honors by Falls City Ceremonial Honor Guard.

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