Ronald Jerome 'Ronnie' Herl, age 79, of Ogallah, Kansas, passed
away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at his home in Ogallah.

Ronnie was born on November 20, 1946, in Hays, Kansas, to Alvin K.
and Dorothy Frances (Karlin) Herl, Sr. He graduated from Trego Community High
School in 1965. He married Karen Schmeidler on October 10, 1987 at St. Mary's
Church in Ellis, Kansas, and together they enjoyed 38 years of marriage.

His early years were spent as a farmer and rancher; he was a
genuine steward of the land, a way of life that shaped his strong work ethic
and influenced both his personal and professional life. After a brief time
hauling propane for Schreiner’s out of Ogallah, Ronnie started a thirty year
career working for Enersys (Yuasa/Exide). This position, which he retired from
in 2022, provided him with many great friends, the opportunity to work with his
hands, and time spent working with his wife and daughter.

An entertainer at heart, Ronnie was a gifted musician, especially
on the guitar. He and his bands performed at many local functions, parties, and
weddings. Over the years, he played with the Don Younger Band, the Ron Herl
Band alongside his siblings, and most recently with the Wes Windholz Polka Band.

Ronnie was also known as a talented mechanic, possessing the
remarkable ability to repair nearly anything with his skilled hands. He
especially enjoyed spending time with all of his family and was very proud of
his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife, Karen; his children, Aaron
(Shelby) Herl of Hays and Alyssa Herl (Meny Rodriguez) of Great Bend; his
brother, Alvin (Amy) Herl, Jr. of Ogallah; his sisters, Jeannette (Charles)
Augustine of Ellis, Joyce (Kenneth) Kinderknecht of Collyer, and Joan (Donovan)
Neufeldt of Moundridge; his two granddaughters, Lilia and Kaeli; and many
nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Alvin, Sr., and Dorothy
(Karlin) Herl, his twin brother, Donald 'Donnie' Herl, and his father-in-law,
Ralph Schmeidler.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, January 12, 2026, at
10:00 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church - Ellis, 703 Monroe Street Ellis, Kansas
67637. Inurnment will follow the mass in the parish cemetery. Memorial
visitation will be Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM with a combined
parish vigil and rosary service at 7 PM all at Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory - Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 East 17th Street Ellis, Kansas 67637.

Memorials are suggested to St. Mary’s Parish in care of the
funeral chapel.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Ronnie's family
on his tribute page via:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767978356695.png" alt="Ronald Jerome 'Ronnie' Herl" />
 <figcaption>Ronald Jerome 'Ronnie' Herl</figcaption>
 </figure>Ronald Jerome 'Ronnie' Herl, age 79, of Ogallah, Kansas, passed
away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at his home in Ogallah.Ronnie was born on November 20, 1946, in Hays, Kansas, to Alvin K.
and Dorothy Frances (Karlin) Herl, Sr. He graduated from Trego Community High
School in 1965. He married Karen Schmeidler on October 10, 1987 at St. Mary's
Church in Ellis, Kansas, and together they enjoyed 38 years of marriage.His early years were spent as a farmer and rancher; he was a
genuine steward of the land, a way of life that shaped his strong work ethic
and influenced both his personal and professional life. After a brief time
hauling propane for Schreiner’s out of Ogallah, Ronnie started a thirty year
career working for Enersys (Yuasa/Exide). This position, which he retired from
in 2022, provided him with many great friends, the opportunity to work with his
hands, and time spent working with his wife and daughter.An entertainer at heart, Ronnie was a gifted musician, especially
on the guitar. He and his bands performed at many local functions, parties, and
weddings. Over the years, he played with the Don Younger Band, the Ron Herl
Band alongside his siblings, and most recently with the Wes Windholz Polka Band.Ronnie was also known as a talented mechanic, possessing the
remarkable ability to repair nearly anything with his skilled hands. He
especially enjoyed spending time with all of his family and was very proud of
his children and grandchildren.He is survived by his loving wife, Karen; his children, Aaron
(Shelby) Herl of Hays and Alyssa Herl (Meny Rodriguez) of Great Bend; his
brother, Alvin (Amy) Herl, Jr. of Ogallah; his sisters, Jeannette (Charles)
Augustine of Ellis, Joyce (Kenneth) Kinderknecht of Collyer, and Joan (Donovan)
Neufeldt of Moundridge; his two granddaughters, Lilia and Kaeli; and many
nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents: Alvin, Sr., and Dorothy
(Karlin) Herl, his twin brother, Donald 'Donnie' Herl, and his father-in-law,
Ralph Schmeidler.Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, January 12, 2026, at
10:00 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church - Ellis, 703 Monroe Street Ellis, Kansas
67637. Inurnment will follow the mass in the parish cemetery. Memorial
visitation will be Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM with a combined
parish vigil and rosary service at 7 PM all at Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory - Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 East 17th Street Ellis, Kansas 67637.Memorials are suggested to St. Mary’s Parish in care of the
funeral chapel.Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Ronnie's family
on his tribute page via:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Ronald Jerome 'Ronnie' Herl

Lois Christine (Stickney) Thompson, 73, of&nbsp;Hays, Kansas,
passed away on&nbsp;January 6, 2026 in Kansas City at Providence Medical
Center, after a brief illness. She passed peacefully with her cherished
children by her side. 

Lois&nbsp;was born&nbsp;on October 14, 1952 in Great Bend,
Kansas,&nbsp;to Thomas and Mabel (Scott) Stickney. She referred to herself as a
treasured “only child”, until 14 months later five siblings were born in quick
succession. She grew up in Ellinwood, Kansas, playing fast pitch softball,
participating in 4-H, and delivering newspapers along with her siblings. They
had an unwavering bond until her last breath. Lois absolutely treasured her
childhood, making an effort to attend every family event possible. She also
maintained friendships with many of her classmates throughout her life and never
missed a class reunion. 

In 1970, Lois graduated from&nbsp;Ellinwood High School, and
then moved to Hays, Kansas, to join a secretarial program at Fort Hays State. While
attending classes, she was recommended to High Plains Mental Health Center when
they were looking to fill a secretarial position. She proudly accepted the role
and worked there during the day and served cocktails at the Alpine Room at
night.

Lois married&nbsp;Steven Thompson&nbsp;on&nbsp;May 8, 1976, in
Ellinwood. They were married for 21 years until Steven’s death in 1997. During
this time, they had two children, Jana Christine and Bradley Wayne, whom she
absolutely adored. She filled their home with laughter, made intricate
Halloween costumes and elaborate birthday cakes, and prepared amazing meals
from her expansive garden. But most importantly, she smothered her kids with
affection, endlessly giving hugs and kisses. Always keeping her promise that
they would know how much she loved them. 

In 1986, Lois started working as a&nbsp;bookkeeper for Adams,
Brown, Beran &amp; Ball.&nbsp;She treasured her relationships with her clients
and loved teaching QuickBooks. While employed, she remained an amazing mother
and kept an active social life filled with activities. She continued working
for 32 years until she retired to focus on her grandsons, hobbies, and
overflowing social calendar. 

Lois&nbsp;especially enjoyed golfing, sewing, baking,
quilting, crocheting, and attending her grandson’s golf tournaments, baseball
and football games. She loved taking her grandson, Caleb, to his junior golf
tournaments all around Kansas and was excited to start the same adventure with
her grandson, Colby, this summer. &nbsp;She
was endlessly passionate about supporting female sports and local businesses.
She loved traveling, visiting friends, bestowing hugs to her nieces and
nephews, and forming friendships with virtually everyone she met. She always
looked forward to her family’s annual golf tournament in Chase, Kansas, held in
honor of her parents who passed on their love of golf to their entire family. 

Lois was member of Smoky Hill Country Club, VFW Auxiliary,
Sigma Phi Gamma Sorority, Kansas Women’s Golf Association formerly serving as
treasurer, and was a proud Rotarian where she also acted as treasurer. 

Lois was the proudest mother of her two children; Jana
Thompson and husband Craig Maleta of Kansas City, and Brad Thompson and wife
Kristi of Hays. She was a doting grandma to her cherished grandson’s Caleb and
Colby and wonderful bonus grandma to Kolby and Mason. She deeply treasured her
five siblings; Larry Stickney and wife Lorrie of Great Bend, Leroy Stickney and
wife Debra of Chase, Lyle Stickney of Ellinwood, Lila Schartz and husband
Curtis of Great Bend, and Luella Zorn and husband David of Augusta. Lois also
adored her 16 nieces and nephews and her best friend of over 50 years, De Roth.


Lois was proceeded in death by her husband, parents, and
dear friends Judy Manning and Glenda Newell. 

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, January
15, 2026 at Celebration Community Church with Pastor Brant Rice
officiating.&nbsp; Visitation will be from
5:00 pm until 8:00 on Wednesday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from
10:00 am until service time on Thursday at the church.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be at a later
date in Mt. Allen Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials
are suggested to Hays High School – Golf Fund or to the Community Assistance
Center.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Lois
may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768073740286.jpeg" alt="Lois Christine (Stickney) Thompson" />
 <figcaption>Lois Christine (Stickney) Thompson</figcaption>
 </figure>Lois Christine (Stickney) Thompson, 73, of&nbsp;Hays, Kansas,
passed away on&nbsp;January 6, 2026 in Kansas City at Providence Medical
Center, after a brief illness. She passed peacefully with her cherished
children by her side. Lois&nbsp;was born&nbsp;on October 14, 1952 in Great Bend,
Kansas,&nbsp;to Thomas and Mabel (Scott) Stickney. She referred to herself as a
treasured “only child”, until 14 months later five siblings were born in quick
succession. She grew up in Ellinwood, Kansas, playing fast pitch softball,
participating in 4-H, and delivering newspapers along with her siblings. They
had an unwavering bond until her last breath. Lois absolutely treasured her
childhood, making an effort to attend every family event possible. She also
maintained friendships with many of her classmates throughout her life and never
missed a class reunion. In 1970, Lois graduated from&nbsp;Ellinwood High School, and
then moved to Hays, Kansas, to join a secretarial program at Fort Hays State. While
attending classes, she was recommended to High Plains Mental Health Center when
they were looking to fill a secretarial position. She proudly accepted the role
and worked there during the day and served cocktails at the Alpine Room at
night.Lois married&nbsp;Steven Thompson&nbsp;on&nbsp;May 8, 1976, in
Ellinwood. They were married for 21 years until Steven’s death in 1997. During
this time, they had two children, Jana Christine and Bradley Wayne, whom she
absolutely adored. She filled their home with laughter, made intricate
Halloween costumes and elaborate birthday cakes, and prepared amazing meals
from her expansive garden. But most importantly, she smothered her kids with
affection, endlessly giving hugs and kisses. Always keeping her promise that
they would know how much she loved them. In 1986, Lois started working as a&nbsp;bookkeeper for Adams,
Brown, Beran &amp; Ball.&nbsp;She treasured her relationships with her clients
and loved teaching QuickBooks. While employed, she remained an amazing mother
and kept an active social life filled with activities. She continued working
for 32 years until she retired to focus on her grandsons, hobbies, and
overflowing social calendar. Lois&nbsp;especially enjoyed golfing, sewing, baking,
quilting, crocheting, and attending her grandson’s golf tournaments, baseball
and football games. She loved taking her grandson, Caleb, to his junior golf
tournaments all around Kansas and was excited to start the same adventure with
her grandson, Colby, this summer. &nbsp;She
was endlessly passionate about supporting female sports and local businesses.
She loved traveling, visiting friends, bestowing hugs to her nieces and
nephews, and forming friendships with virtually everyone she met. She always
looked forward to her family’s annual golf tournament in Chase, Kansas, held in
honor of her parents who passed on their love of golf to their entire family. Lois was member of Smoky Hill Country Club, VFW Auxiliary,
Sigma Phi Gamma Sorority, Kansas Women’s Golf Association formerly serving as
treasurer, and was a proud Rotarian where she also acted as treasurer. Lois was the proudest mother of her two children; Jana
Thompson and husband Craig Maleta of Kansas City, and Brad Thompson and wife
Kristi of Hays. She was a doting grandma to her cherished grandson’s Caleb and
Colby and wonderful bonus grandma to Kolby and Mason. She deeply treasured her
five siblings; Larry Stickney and wife Lorrie of Great Bend, Leroy Stickney and
wife Debra of Chase, Lyle Stickney of Ellinwood, Lila Schartz and husband
Curtis of Great Bend, and Luella Zorn and husband David of Augusta. Lois also
adored her 16 nieces and nephews and her best friend of over 50 years, De Roth.
Lois was proceeded in death by her husband, parents, and
dear friends Judy Manning and Glenda Newell. Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, January
15, 2026 at Celebration Community Church with Pastor Brant Rice
officiating.&nbsp; Visitation will be from
5:00 pm until 8:00 on Wednesday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from
10:00 am until service time on Thursday at the church.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be at a later
date in Mt. Allen Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials
are suggested to Hays High School – Golf Fund or to the Community Assistance
Center.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Lois
may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Lois Christine (Stickney) Thompson

Kathryn Nadine
(Neff) Wedermyer departed to live with her Lord and Savior on January 7, 2026.
She was born during the dirty dust bowl days in her country home in Trego
County Kansas, the first child of Homer and Ella (Claycamp) Neff, on January 2,
1933 and lived 93 years.

Kathryn
grew up on the farm with her three younger siblings near Big Creek and loved
roaming the creek as it was her job to bring in the milk cows every evening.
Her first 8 years of elementary school was in a one room country school.
Kathryn always delighted in school and graduated Trego Community High School
with National Honor Society.

On
August 5, 1951, Kathryn married her high school sweetheart and lived on a farm
near WaKeeney. To this union four wonderful children were born. Patti Lynn,
Douglas Dean, Vicki Lea and David James. A new home was built in 1963 for the
comfort of their family. In 1965 the family was awarded the 0.Y.F. (Outstanding
Young Farmer) award by the WaKeeney Jaycee, also the Trego County Soil
Conservation Award. In 1972 the family moved off the farm to live in Goodland
where Jim was employed by the Moorman Feed Company as a Field District Manager.

Kathryn's
greatest joy in life was her beloved family and working around and with
children, most especially, her grand and great grandchildren! and volunteering
was her passion. Teaching Church School was a priority for many years teaching
over 30 years and attending Synod School at Emporia in the summer. The family
was a foster family for over 10 years, keeping in contact yet today with
several. In 1977-78 hosted Preecha Subhikam from Thailand who became part of
the family, visiting almost every year. Then a few years later they hosted a
teacher, Jittima from Thailand. Kathryn instigated the child abuse program
FACES (Family and Child Education Service) in Goodland followed by the NKFS
(Northwest Kansas Family Services (Options). Both of them now head quartered in
Colby and Hays. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in WaKeeney
transferring to the United Methodist Church in Goodland, serving as a Bible
teacher also taking the Stephen Ministry course and serving as a Stephen
Minister. Gladly serving as the coordinator of the churches part in the Meals
on Wheels program, loved to coordinate the monthly communion, playing piano,
delivering pies to newcomers, etc.

She
was preceded in death by her husband James William Wedermyer; parents Homer and
Ella (Claycamp) Neff; father and mother-in-law V.V. and Emma Wedermyer;
&nbsp;two daughters, Patti Lynn Gray and Vicki Lea Hilty; two brothers Earl
Neff and Homer Leon Neff; &nbsp;sister Verna Maulsby; two sister in laws Ann
(Wedermyer) Kirkland and Virginia (Wedermyer) Hager; brother-in-law Jerry
Wedermyer; all of her Aunts and Uncles are deceased.

Kathryn
is survived by two sons Douglas (Sandy) Wedermyer of WaKeeney, KS and David
(Laura) Wedermyer of Olathe, KS; sister-in-laws Shirley Neff-Mai of WaKeeney,
KS, Darlene Neff of San Diego, CA and Kay Wedermyer of Kansas City, MO;
brother-in-laws Melvin (Bev) Wedermyer, Larry (Eunice) Wedermyer.
Grandchildren: Traci (Jason) Ketter, Michael (Gina) Wedermyer, Staci (Mike)
Kessinger, DeAnne (Cody) Spencer, Christopher (Sarah) Geeseka, Lindsey (Caleb)
Schmidt, Landon (Laura Mertz) Wedermyer, Alison (Evan) Koch, Ryan (Jessica)
Wedermyer, step children Brad Haas and Michelle Hass-Heinrich. Great
grandchildren: Simon, Miles, Amelia and Ella Ketter, Adam, Rebecca and Jacob
Wedermyer, Abram, Leo and Elihu Spencer, Preston and Gracelyn Geeseka, James
Koch, Mackenzie Haas, Grayson Haas-Heinrich, Nolan and Isla Wedermyer and Levi
Schmidt; many loved cousins, nieces, nephews, the Sudhikam family, Jittima, and
foster Schmid-families, Matthew Haeffner and many others.

Funeral
service will be Friday, January 16, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. MT at the Goodland
United Methodist Church, 1116 Sherman Avenue, Goodland, luncheon following the
service at the Goodland United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Interment will
be at 3 p.m. CT at the WaKeeney City Cemetery, MD-25, WaKeeney. Visitation will
be Thursday, January 15, 2026 from 5 to 7 p.m. MT at Bateman Funeral Home, 211
East 11th Street, Goodland. Memorials may be designated to the Goodland United
Methodist Church Bible Studies and may be left at the services or sent in care
of Bateman Funeral Home, PO Box 278, Goodland, KS 67735. Information and
condolences&nbsp;<a href="http://www.batemanfuneral.com">www.batemanfuneral.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768020004117.jpeg" alt="Kathryn Nadine (Neff) Wedermyer" />
 <figcaption>Kathryn Nadine (Neff) Wedermyer</figcaption>
 </figure>Kathryn Nadine
(Neff) Wedermyer departed to live with her Lord and Savior on January 7, 2026.
She was born during the dirty dust bowl days in her country home in Trego
County Kansas, the first child of Homer and Ella (Claycamp) Neff, on January 2,
1933 and lived 93 years.Kathryn
grew up on the farm with her three younger siblings near Big Creek and loved
roaming the creek as it was her job to bring in the milk cows every evening.
Her first 8 years of elementary school was in a one room country school.
Kathryn always delighted in school and graduated Trego Community High School
with National Honor Society.On
August 5, 1951, Kathryn married her high school sweetheart and lived on a farm
near WaKeeney. To this union four wonderful children were born. Patti Lynn,
Douglas Dean, Vicki Lea and David James. A new home was built in 1963 for the
comfort of their family. In 1965 the family was awarded the 0.Y.F. (Outstanding
Young Farmer) award by the WaKeeney Jaycee, also the Trego County Soil
Conservation Award. In 1972 the family moved off the farm to live in Goodland
where Jim was employed by the Moorman Feed Company as a Field District Manager.Kathryn's
greatest joy in life was her beloved family and working around and with
children, most especially, her grand and great grandchildren! and volunteering
was her passion. Teaching Church School was a priority for many years teaching
over 30 years and attending Synod School at Emporia in the summer. The family
was a foster family for over 10 years, keeping in contact yet today with
several. In 1977-78 hosted Preecha Subhikam from Thailand who became part of
the family, visiting almost every year. Then a few years later they hosted a
teacher, Jittima from Thailand. Kathryn instigated the child abuse program
FACES (Family and Child Education Service) in Goodland followed by the NKFS
(Northwest Kansas Family Services (Options). Both of them now head quartered in
Colby and Hays. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in WaKeeney
transferring to the United Methodist Church in Goodland, serving as a Bible
teacher also taking the Stephen Ministry course and serving as a Stephen
Minister. Gladly serving as the coordinator of the churches part in the Meals
on Wheels program, loved to coordinate the monthly communion, playing piano,
delivering pies to newcomers, etc.She
was preceded in death by her husband James William Wedermyer; parents Homer and
Ella (Claycamp) Neff; father and mother-in-law V.V. and Emma Wedermyer;
&nbsp;two daughters, Patti Lynn Gray and Vicki Lea Hilty; two brothers Earl
Neff and Homer Leon Neff; &nbsp;sister Verna Maulsby; two sister in laws Ann
(Wedermyer) Kirkland and Virginia (Wedermyer) Hager; brother-in-law Jerry
Wedermyer; all of her Aunts and Uncles are deceased.Kathryn
is survived by two sons Douglas (Sandy) Wedermyer of WaKeeney, KS and David
(Laura) Wedermyer of Olathe, KS; sister-in-laws Shirley Neff-Mai of WaKeeney,
KS, Darlene Neff of San Diego, CA and Kay Wedermyer of Kansas City, MO;
brother-in-laws Melvin (Bev) Wedermyer, Larry (Eunice) Wedermyer.
Grandchildren: Traci (Jason) Ketter, Michael (Gina) Wedermyer, Staci (Mike)
Kessinger, DeAnne (Cody) Spencer, Christopher (Sarah) Geeseka, Lindsey (Caleb)
Schmidt, Landon (Laura Mertz) Wedermyer, Alison (Evan) Koch, Ryan (Jessica)
Wedermyer, step children Brad Haas and Michelle Hass-Heinrich. Great
grandchildren: Simon, Miles, Amelia and Ella Ketter, Adam, Rebecca and Jacob
Wedermyer, Abram, Leo and Elihu Spencer, Preston and Gracelyn Geeseka, James
Koch, Mackenzie Haas, Grayson Haas-Heinrich, Nolan and Isla Wedermyer and Levi
Schmidt; many loved cousins, nieces, nephews, the Sudhikam family, Jittima, and
foster Schmid-families, Matthew Haeffner and many others.Funeral
service will be Friday, January 16, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. MT at the Goodland
United Methodist Church, 1116 Sherman Avenue, Goodland, luncheon following the
service at the Goodland United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Interment will
be at 3 p.m. CT at the WaKeeney City Cemetery, MD-25, WaKeeney. Visitation will
be Thursday, January 15, 2026 from 5 to 7 p.m. MT at Bateman Funeral Home, 211
East 11th Street, Goodland. Memorials may be designated to the Goodland United
Methodist Church Bible Studies and may be left at the services or sent in care
of Bateman Funeral Home, PO Box 278, Goodland, KS 67735. Information and
condolences&nbsp;<a href="http://www.batemanfuneral.com">www.batemanfuneral.com</a>

Kathryn Nadine (Neff) Wedermyer

Ruth May Grace was born on
September 30, 1930, at Mercy Hospital in Denver, Colorado, to Leonard Wallace
Grace and Mary Baldwin Grace. She was raised in Denver, attending Columbine
Grade School and graduating from Manual Training High School in 1948. Ruth
received a scholarship to Loretto Heights and completed her first year of
nursing education at Mercy Hospital. After graduating and becoming a Registered
Nurse, she worked at Mercy Hospital in Denver.

In 1952, Ruth entered the
Discalced Carmelite Order in Iron Mountain, Michigan, where she spent four
years before discerning a different calling. She later relocated to Colby,
Kansas, where she met her future husband. On November 3, 1956, she married William
(Bill) Joseph Moriarity. In Colby, Ruth embraced her cherished roles as wife
and mother to their beloved children, Patrick Joseph, Mary Eileen and William
Joseph who died during pregnancy.

Ruth continued her nursing career
at Thomas County Hospital as a staff nurse. Committed to lifelong learning, she
earned both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in
Counseling from Fort Hays State University. She served as Director of Nursing
at Thomas County Hospital and later taught in LPN and ADN nursing programs,
while still working weekends as a staff RN. Ruth always remembered and
treasured the many student nurses she taught.

In the 1980s, Ruth and Bill moved
to Hays, Kansas, where she found new opportunities for service and creativity.
She became involved with the Hays Generations Page Committee and wrote a
monthly column for the Hays Daily News. Deeply devoted to her Catholic
faith, Ruth served as a Eucharistic Minister and Proclaimer at Holy Family
Catholic Church, assisted with the parish RCIA program, and led a weekly
Catholic Communion Service for the homebound. She also valued her membership in
the Courtney-Spalding Chapter of the Kansas Society Daughters of the American
Revolution (KSDAR).

Ruth embraced retirement with
enthusiasm. She filled her days with gardening, quilting, traveling, and
spending time with friends. She volunteered at her home parish, Holy Family
Catholic church, the Fort Hays State University Senior Companion/Foster Grandparent
Board, and the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. Her family later grew with
the birth of her granddaughter, Amalia (Molly) J. Madrid, in 1994. Ruth
considered it a special gift when following high school, Molly moved to Hays to
attend and graduate from Fort Hays State University. In 2015, Ruth and Bill
relocated from Hays to Loveland, Colorado, to be closer to their daughter Mary
Eileen and her husband, Anthony (Tony) Madrid. 

Ruth passed peacefully on
December 27, 2025 in Loveland, Colorado after celebrating with her family
Christmas and her granddaughter’s birthday. Ruth was preceded in death by her
forever-beloved husband of 62½ years, William (Bill) Moriarity; their sons, Patrick
Joseph and William Joseph; her parents, Leonard and Mary Grace; her sister,
Maribeth Grace Augustyn; and her brother, Jim Grace.

She is survived by her beloved
daughter, Mary Eileen Moriarity Madrid, and son-in-law Anthony (Tony) Madrid of
Loveland, Colorado; her granddaughter, Amalia (Molly) J’anette Madrid Atherton,
and husband Bryce Atherton; along with many cherished nieces, nephews,
grandnieces, grandnephews, and dear friends.

Ruth will be remembered for her
infectious giggle, her compassionate spirit, her warmth that made others feel
seen and valued, and her lifelong devotion to faith, family, and service.
Ruth’s greatest joys in life were her family and her Catholic faith.

A Rosary and Funeral Mass for
Ruth will be held on: Thursday, January 15 at St. John the Evangelist
Catholic Church in Loveland, Colorado.&nbsp;&nbsp; Rosary at 1000 followed by
the Funeral Mass at 1100. A reception will follow in St. John’s Hall.

Burial will be January 17 at 1100
in the family plot at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Colby Kansas.&nbsp;
Lunch will be served in the Sacred Heart Church Basement, 585 N. French Ave. Colby,
KS 67701, following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, a
Memorial Gift on behalf of Ruth Moriarity may be made either to the Catholic
Foundation for the schools of Northern Colorado:&nbsp; 303-468-9885, 6160 S.
Syracuse Way, Suite 111, Greenwood Village, CO 80111 <a href="https://archden.org/give/legacy/">https://archden.org/give/legacy/</a> .
Or to the Sternberg Museum: 877-332-1165 3000 Sternberg Dr, Hays, KS 67601 <a href="https://sternberg.fhsu.edu/">https://sternberg.fhsu.edu/</a>

Here is a link for the funeral on January 15th at
11:00am&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://youtube.com/live/wwgz0Ahe6ww?feature=share" target="_blank">https://youtube.com/live/wwgz0Ahe6ww?feature=share</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767737910824.jpeg" alt="Ruth May Grace Moriarity&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ruth May Grace Moriarity&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Ruth May Grace was born on
September 30, 1930, at Mercy Hospital in Denver, Colorado, to Leonard Wallace
Grace and Mary Baldwin Grace. She was raised in Denver, attending Columbine
Grade School and graduating from Manual Training High School in 1948. Ruth
received a scholarship to Loretto Heights and completed her first year of
nursing education at Mercy Hospital. After graduating and becoming a Registered
Nurse, she worked at Mercy Hospital in Denver.In 1952, Ruth entered the
Discalced Carmelite Order in Iron Mountain, Michigan, where she spent four
years before discerning a different calling. She later relocated to Colby,
Kansas, where she met her future husband. On November 3, 1956, she married William
(Bill) Joseph Moriarity. In Colby, Ruth embraced her cherished roles as wife
and mother to their beloved children, Patrick Joseph, Mary Eileen and William
Joseph who died during pregnancy.Ruth continued her nursing career
at Thomas County Hospital as a staff nurse. Committed to lifelong learning, she
earned both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in
Counseling from Fort Hays State University. She served as Director of Nursing
at Thomas County Hospital and later taught in LPN and ADN nursing programs,
while still working weekends as a staff RN. Ruth always remembered and
treasured the many student nurses she taught.In the 1980s, Ruth and Bill moved
to Hays, Kansas, where she found new opportunities for service and creativity.
She became involved with the Hays Generations Page Committee and wrote a
monthly column for the Hays Daily News. Deeply devoted to her Catholic
faith, Ruth served as a Eucharistic Minister and Proclaimer at Holy Family
Catholic Church, assisted with the parish RCIA program, and led a weekly
Catholic Communion Service for the homebound. She also valued her membership in
the Courtney-Spalding Chapter of the Kansas Society Daughters of the American
Revolution (KSDAR).Ruth embraced retirement with
enthusiasm. She filled her days with gardening, quilting, traveling, and
spending time with friends. She volunteered at her home parish, Holy Family
Catholic church, the Fort Hays State University Senior Companion/Foster Grandparent
Board, and the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. Her family later grew with
the birth of her granddaughter, Amalia (Molly) J. Madrid, in 1994. Ruth
considered it a special gift when following high school, Molly moved to Hays to
attend and graduate from Fort Hays State University. In 2015, Ruth and Bill
relocated from Hays to Loveland, Colorado, to be closer to their daughter Mary
Eileen and her husband, Anthony (Tony) Madrid. Ruth passed peacefully on
December 27, 2025 in Loveland, Colorado after celebrating with her family
Christmas and her granddaughter’s birthday. Ruth was preceded in death by her
forever-beloved husband of 62½ years, William (Bill) Moriarity; their sons, Patrick
Joseph and William Joseph; her parents, Leonard and Mary Grace; her sister,
Maribeth Grace Augustyn; and her brother, Jim Grace.She is survived by her beloved
daughter, Mary Eileen Moriarity Madrid, and son-in-law Anthony (Tony) Madrid of
Loveland, Colorado; her granddaughter, Amalia (Molly) J’anette Madrid Atherton,
and husband Bryce Atherton; along with many cherished nieces, nephews,
grandnieces, grandnephews, and dear friends.Ruth will be remembered for her
infectious giggle, her compassionate spirit, her warmth that made others feel
seen and valued, and her lifelong devotion to faith, family, and service.
Ruth’s greatest joys in life were her family and her Catholic faith.A Rosary and Funeral Mass for
Ruth will be held on: Thursday, January 15 at St. John the Evangelist
Catholic Church in Loveland, Colorado.&nbsp;&nbsp; Rosary at 1000 followed by
the Funeral Mass at 1100. A reception will follow in St. John’s Hall.Burial will be January 17 at 1100
in the family plot at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Colby Kansas.&nbsp;
Lunch will be served in the Sacred Heart Church Basement, 585 N. French Ave. Colby,
KS 67701, following the burial.In lieu of flowers, a
Memorial Gift on behalf of Ruth Moriarity may be made either to the Catholic
Foundation for the schools of Northern Colorado:&nbsp; 303-468-9885, 6160 S.
Syracuse Way, Suite 111, Greenwood Village, CO 80111 <a href="https://archden.org/give/legacy/">https://archden.org/give/legacy/</a> .
Or to the Sternberg Museum: 877-332-1165 3000 Sternberg Dr, Hays, KS 67601 <a href="https://sternberg.fhsu.edu/">https://sternberg.fhsu.edu/</a>Here is a link for the funeral on January 15th at
11:00am&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://youtube.com/live/wwgz0Ahe6ww?feature=share" target="_blank">https://youtube.com/live/wwgz0Ahe6ww?feature=share</a>

Ruth May Grace Moriarity 

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a>

How to submit an obituary to the Hays Post

Please email obituaries to haysobits@eaglemedia.com.

Please allow up to 24 hours from the submission of the obituary for it to be posted on the Hays Post.&nbsp;

If you have questions, please contact Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.&nbsp;

If you have an issue outside of business hours or your obit has not been published within 24 hours, please email <a href="mailto:hayspost@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">hayspost@eaglemedia.com</a> or call Cristina Janney, Hays Post editor, at 785-301-2077.&nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561995642681.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>How to submit an obituary to the Hays Post</h2>Please email obituaries to haysobits@eaglemedia.com.Please allow up to 24 hours from the submission of the obituary for it to be posted on the Hays Post.&nbsp;If you have questions, please contact Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.&nbsp;If you have an issue outside of business hours or your obit has not been published within 24 hours, please email <a href="mailto:hayspost@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">hayspost@eaglemedia.com</a> or call Cristina Janney, Hays Post editor, at 785-301-2077.&nbsp;

Recent obituaries, how to submit an obituary

Roger Keith Nichols, 80, of
Russell, Kansas, died on Monday, January 05, 2026, at the Russell Regional
Hospital Emergency Room. 

Roger was born on August 08, 1945,
in Russell, Kansas, the son of William 'Bill' and Irene (Deines) Nichols. He
grew up in the Russell area and lived there his entire life. He worked as a
Janitor for Pohlman Hardware and also worked at DSNWK both in Russell. He
attended Bible Baptist Church in Russell. He loved watching oil rigs run and
enjoyed tinkering with toy trains and exploring large locomotives. Most of all
he enjoyed interacting with his family and close friends. 

Roger enjoyed services from
Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) for 36 years.

Surviving family includes his
cousin Diana Boxberger (Boatright) and husband Ronnie of Russell, Kansas;
Delores (Boatright) Wegele and husband Allen of Concho, AZ.&nbsp;His group home friends James
Hemphill (cousin), Collette Whitman, Rosemary Dancer, Caid Breon. 

He was preceded in death by his
parents and stepbrother Clifford Deines. 

Eileen (Boatright)Hemphill and
husband Earl Hemphill. 

A gathering service to celebrate
Roger’s life will be held from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026,
at the mortuary with family present to greet guests from 5 P.M. to 6 P.M.
Wednesday evening. In lieu of flower the family requests memorials be given to
DSNWK and sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler
Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the services. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767910936054.jpeg" alt="Roger Keith Nichols" />
 <figcaption>Roger Keith Nichols</figcaption>
 </figure>Roger Keith Nichols, 80, of
Russell, Kansas, died on Monday, January 05, 2026, at the Russell Regional
Hospital Emergency Room. Roger was born on August 08, 1945,
in Russell, Kansas, the son of William 'Bill' and Irene (Deines) Nichols. He
grew up in the Russell area and lived there his entire life. He worked as a
Janitor for Pohlman Hardware and also worked at DSNWK both in Russell. He
attended Bible Baptist Church in Russell. He loved watching oil rigs run and
enjoyed tinkering with toy trains and exploring large locomotives. Most of all
he enjoyed interacting with his family and close friends. Roger enjoyed services from
Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK) for 36 years.Surviving family includes his
cousin Diana Boxberger (Boatright) and husband Ronnie of Russell, Kansas;
Delores (Boatright) Wegele and husband Allen of Concho, AZ.&nbsp;His group home friends James
Hemphill (cousin), Collette Whitman, Rosemary Dancer, Caid Breon. He was preceded in death by his
parents and stepbrother Clifford Deines. Eileen (Boatright)Hemphill and
husband Earl Hemphill. A gathering service to celebrate
Roger’s life will be held from 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026,
at the mortuary with family present to greet guests from 5 P.M. to 6 P.M.
Wednesday evening. In lieu of flower the family requests memorials be given to
DSNWK and sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler
Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the services.

Roger Keith Nichols

Linda Mae Sekavec, 76, of Ness
City, Kansas, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, at Cedar Village Care
Center. She was born on June 18, 1949, in Hays, Kansas, the beloved daughter of
Eugene and Mary (Befort) Leiker.

Linda was a devoted member of
Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Altar Society. She dedicated her
professional life to serving children as an elementary and middle school
special education teacher, teaching in the Abilene, Jetmore, and Ness City
school systems. Her deep compassion for children and her commitment to their
success were evident throughout her career. Sadly, multiple sclerosis forced
her to retire earlier than she had planned, but her caring spirit never
wavered.

On December 27, 1971, Linda
married Ronald Sekavec in Hays, Kansas. Together they shared a loving marriage
and raised two sons, Matthew and Daniel, who were the pride and joy of her
life. Linda will be fondly remembered for her kindness, gentle nature, and
unwavering concern for others.

She is survived by her husband, Ron Sekavec of Ness City;
her sons, Matthew and his wife, Milagros, of Hays, and Daniel and his wife,
Jessica, of Golden, Colorado; her grandchildren, Christian and Taylor Sekavec;
her brothers, Dennis Leiker of Austin, Texas, Ric Leiker of Tennessee, and
Rodney (Lori) Leiker of Hays; and her brothers-in-law, Dale (Brenda) Sekavec of
Garden City, Marvin (Twylia) Sekavec of Brownell, and Gerald (Judy) Leiker of
Hays.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother,
Garold Leiker; and her sisters-in-law, Linda and Jolene Leiker.

A Rosary service will be held at
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ness City on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at
10:30 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place
in the Sacred Heart Cemetery. Viewing will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home
in Ness City on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be
made to Ness County Home Health, Cedar Village Long Term Care, or Hospice of
the Prairie.

Words of sympathy and support may
be shared with the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767814763676.jpeg" alt="Linda Mae Sekavec" />
 <figcaption>Linda Mae Sekavec</figcaption>
 </figure>Linda Mae Sekavec, 76, of Ness
City, Kansas, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, at Cedar Village Care
Center. She was born on June 18, 1949, in Hays, Kansas, the beloved daughter of
Eugene and Mary (Befort) Leiker.Linda was a devoted member of
Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Altar Society. She dedicated her
professional life to serving children as an elementary and middle school
special education teacher, teaching in the Abilene, Jetmore, and Ness City
school systems. Her deep compassion for children and her commitment to their
success were evident throughout her career. Sadly, multiple sclerosis forced
her to retire earlier than she had planned, but her caring spirit never
wavered.On December 27, 1971, Linda
married Ronald Sekavec in Hays, Kansas. Together they shared a loving marriage
and raised two sons, Matthew and Daniel, who were the pride and joy of her
life. Linda will be fondly remembered for her kindness, gentle nature, and
unwavering concern for others.She is survived by her husband, Ron Sekavec of Ness City;
her sons, Matthew and his wife, Milagros, of Hays, and Daniel and his wife,
Jessica, of Golden, Colorado; her grandchildren, Christian and Taylor Sekavec;
her brothers, Dennis Leiker of Austin, Texas, Ric Leiker of Tennessee, and
Rodney (Lori) Leiker of Hays; and her brothers-in-law, Dale (Brenda) Sekavec of
Garden City, Marvin (Twylia) Sekavec of Brownell, and Gerald (Judy) Leiker of
Hays.She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother,
Garold Leiker; and her sisters-in-law, Linda and Jolene Leiker.A Rosary service will be held at
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ness City on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at
10:30 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place
in the Sacred Heart Cemetery. Viewing will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home
in Ness City on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.Memorial contributions may be
made to Ness County Home Health, Cedar Village Long Term Care, or Hospice of
the Prairie.Words of sympathy and support may
be shared with the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

Linda Mae Sekavec

Milton Gene Ginther (Butch), 83,
of Russell, Kansas, went to heaven on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the Russell
Regional Hospital in Russell surrounded by his loving family.

Milt was born December 2, 1942,
in Russell. He was one of six children born to Alex S. and Helen (Schmidt)
Ginther. He grew up in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in the
Class of 1960. After graduating he met and fell in love with Sharlet Eileen
Fisk. They were united in marriage on August 28, 1965 in Russell. This union
was blessed with three children: Kelly, Natalie and Kyle.

Milt joined the National Guard
and then was drafted into the US Army during 1966. He was stationed at Ft.
Riley of Kansas before going to Ft. Ord and Ft. Irwin of California. Milton
courageously served his country in the Vietnam War from 1966-1967. He was a
rifle sharp shooter and mechanic/operator of heavy artillery. After his tour of
duty was completed, they moved back and made their home in Russell until
Sharlet preceded him in death on August 30, 2015.

He worked for Lee Fisk Tank
Service as a tank truck driver and backhoe operator. Later he started his own
backhoe service called Rusty Bucket Backhoe and then he became an independent
oil operator. In his spare time, Milton enjoyed remodeling and moving homes
with Sharlet, over 50 in the Russell area. He was an active member of the
Otterbein Methodist Church, Russell V.F.W. Post #6240 and the Dorrance American
Legion Post #334.&nbsp; He was a member of the singing group, Living Water,
produced his own album and enjoyed singing gospel music with Sharlet. Milton
comforted many families by singing at funerals for many years.

Milton enjoyed fishing and
hunting, flying model airplanes, watching the Chiefs and Jayhawks, going to
dirt track races, riding his scooter and attending administrative meetings at
USA Express. He was a devoted Christian, husband, father, grandpa and Rusell
Broncos fan. He was always willing to share the gospel through singing and his
testimony and we know that he is finally home in heaven with Sharlet.

Milt’s surviving family include
his daughter, Natalie Yarmer (Justin) of Russell, Kansas; sons, Kelly Ginther
(Kimberly) of Russell, Kansas and Kyle Ginther of Russell, Kansas; brother,
Glenn Ginther (Daisy) of Hays, Kansas; sister, Elnora Boatright (Robert) of
Overland Park, Kansas; seven grandchildren, Dalton Ginther (Dani), Danika Drake
(Andrew), Mackenzie Hartman (Alan), Savanna Ryan (Levy), Brittney Mayberry,
Kaegan Ginther and Kylee Ginther, ten great grandchildren; friends, Randy
Hurlbut and the USA Express Coffee Crew.

Milt was preceded in death by his
parents; wife, Sharlet; brothers, Dwain Ginther, Alan Ginther and Don Ginther.

Celebration of Milt’s Life will
be held at 10:30 AM, Monday, January 12, 2026 at the Otterbein Methodist
Church. Burial of Milt and Sharlet’s ashes will follow at the St. John Lutheran
Cemetery, where military honors will be conducted for Milt. Visitation will be
held from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Sunday, January 11, 2026, at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family present to greet friends from
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Memorials have been established with the Russell Booster
Club or the Otterbein Methodist Church. Contributions and condolences may be
sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767796517531.jpeg" alt="Milton Gene Ginther (Butch)" />
 <figcaption>Milton Gene Ginther (Butch)</figcaption>
 </figure>Milton Gene Ginther (Butch), 83,
of Russell, Kansas, went to heaven on Monday, January 5, 2026, at the Russell
Regional Hospital in Russell surrounded by his loving family.Milt was born December 2, 1942,
in Russell. He was one of six children born to Alex S. and Helen (Schmidt)
Ginther. He grew up in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in the
Class of 1960. After graduating he met and fell in love with Sharlet Eileen
Fisk. They were united in marriage on August 28, 1965 in Russell. This union
was blessed with three children: Kelly, Natalie and Kyle.Milt joined the National Guard
and then was drafted into the US Army during 1966. He was stationed at Ft.
Riley of Kansas before going to Ft. Ord and Ft. Irwin of California. Milton
courageously served his country in the Vietnam War from 1966-1967. He was a
rifle sharp shooter and mechanic/operator of heavy artillery. After his tour of
duty was completed, they moved back and made their home in Russell until
Sharlet preceded him in death on August 30, 2015.He worked for Lee Fisk Tank
Service as a tank truck driver and backhoe operator. Later he started his own
backhoe service called Rusty Bucket Backhoe and then he became an independent
oil operator. In his spare time, Milton enjoyed remodeling and moving homes
with Sharlet, over 50 in the Russell area. He was an active member of the
Otterbein Methodist Church, Russell V.F.W. Post #6240 and the Dorrance American
Legion Post #334.&nbsp; He was a member of the singing group, Living Water,
produced his own album and enjoyed singing gospel music with Sharlet. Milton
comforted many families by singing at funerals for many years.Milton enjoyed fishing and
hunting, flying model airplanes, watching the Chiefs and Jayhawks, going to
dirt track races, riding his scooter and attending administrative meetings at
USA Express. He was a devoted Christian, husband, father, grandpa and Rusell
Broncos fan. He was always willing to share the gospel through singing and his
testimony and we know that he is finally home in heaven with Sharlet.Milt’s surviving family include
his daughter, Natalie Yarmer (Justin) of Russell, Kansas; sons, Kelly Ginther
(Kimberly) of Russell, Kansas and Kyle Ginther of Russell, Kansas; brother,
Glenn Ginther (Daisy) of Hays, Kansas; sister, Elnora Boatright (Robert) of
Overland Park, Kansas; seven grandchildren, Dalton Ginther (Dani), Danika Drake
(Andrew), Mackenzie Hartman (Alan), Savanna Ryan (Levy), Brittney Mayberry,
Kaegan Ginther and Kylee Ginther, ten great grandchildren; friends, Randy
Hurlbut and the USA Express Coffee Crew.Milt was preceded in death by his
parents; wife, Sharlet; brothers, Dwain Ginther, Alan Ginther and Don Ginther.Celebration of Milt’s Life will
be held at 10:30 AM, Monday, January 12, 2026 at the Otterbein Methodist
Church. Burial of Milt and Sharlet’s ashes will follow at the St. John Lutheran
Cemetery, where military honors will be conducted for Milt. Visitation will be
held from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Sunday, January 11, 2026, at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family present to greet friends from
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Memorials have been established with the Russell Booster
Club or the Otterbein Methodist Church. Contributions and condolences may be
sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Milton Gene Ginther (Butch)

William (Bill) R. Berger, age 82, of Hays, Kansas, passed
away on January 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bill was born to Jean and Rose Berger on March 13, 1943 and
grew up in Jetmore, Kansas, where his deep roots in Western heritage were first
planted. He carried those values throughout his life, remaining devoted to the
Western way of life and spending many of his years on horseback, right up until
the months before his passing. He attended countless rodeos and horse events
and could often be found enjoying a classic western on TV. His love of horses
and rodeo were a legacy he proudly shared with all his children, and many of
his grandchildren continue to carry that passion forward.

Bill attended Sterling College and went on to build a life
of service to others. After earning his Master degree from the University of
Kansas in 1998, Bill was a proud Jayhawk Social Worker for well over two
decades. &nbsp;Over the course of his career, Bill helped countless individuals
facing behavioral health challenges. Many of those people later approached his
family to share stories of his compassion, guidance, and the lasting healing he
brought into their lives. In addition to his counseling work, Bill was a
successful businessman who owned western stores in Hutchinson and Hays, Kansas.
He raised his children to understand the importance of hard work and selfless
giving, dedicating many years to volunteering with the Rodeo Special Olympics
and other causes close to his heart. Through his mother’s lineage, Bill was a
proud member of the Chickasaw Tribe of Oklahoma, and later in life he took
meaningful steps to reconnect with and honor that heritage.

Bill was a loyal husband to his wife, Susie Berger. Bill was
the proud father of three children; Bruce Berger of Ensign; Bret Berger and his
wife Tammy of Dodge City, and Christina Boyd and her husband Brent of Dodge
City. Bill was also blessed with two stepdaughters, Jill Miller and husband
Michael of Kansas City and Amy Grabbe of Hays. He was a cherished brother to
Linda Gass and her husband Randy and a proud grandfather to Ceara Berger, Cody
Berger, Taryn Berger, Collin Berger, Connor Berger, Sloan Berger, Payton
Berger, Ethan Grabbe, Liz Miller, Sam Miller, Maggie Housman, Elise Heim, as
well as a growing number of great-grandchildren who brought him joy. He was
preceded in death by his parents, 3 infant siblings, and daughter in law, Marca
Berger.

Known for his easy laugh and warm spirit, Bill loved being
surrounded by friends and family and made those around him feel valued. Bill
was known for his love of thrift—some might call it frugal, others might even
say cheap—but it earned him the affectionate nickname 'Dollar Bill' from a
lifelong friend who appreciated this endearing quality. Common knowledge was
that Bill could fix anything with a little duct tape and bailing wire. Bill
would often find humor in the everyday and would laugh so hard until the joy
would leak from his eyes as tears. He treasured deep friendships that lasted
decades. He gave miles on the road, hours in the stands, and lots of love from
his heart to support his family down whatever path their own passions led them.
Some of the fondest memories that his kids have are of him cheering on their
dreams from the side of an arena. His legacy lives on through the many lives he
touched, the family he loved deeply, and the traditions he proudly carried
forward.

Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him,
including his most loved dog and constant companion, Ginger.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Friday,
January 9, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays with Fr. Fred Gatschet
and Fr. Curtis Carlson, OFM Cap. officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow in
St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on
Thursday and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel
Funeral Home.&nbsp; A vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30 on Thursday at
the funeral home.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the
Humane Society of the High Plains or for masses.&nbsp; Condolences and memories
of Bill may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767718113901.jpeg" alt="William (Bill) R. Berger" />
 <figcaption>William (Bill) R. Berger</figcaption>
 </figure>William (Bill) R. Berger, age 82, of Hays, Kansas, passed
away on January 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.Bill was born to Jean and Rose Berger on March 13, 1943 and
grew up in Jetmore, Kansas, where his deep roots in Western heritage were first
planted. He carried those values throughout his life, remaining devoted to the
Western way of life and spending many of his years on horseback, right up until
the months before his passing. He attended countless rodeos and horse events
and could often be found enjoying a classic western on TV. His love of horses
and rodeo were a legacy he proudly shared with all his children, and many of
his grandchildren continue to carry that passion forward.Bill attended Sterling College and went on to build a life
of service to others. After earning his Master degree from the University of
Kansas in 1998, Bill was a proud Jayhawk Social Worker for well over two
decades. &nbsp;Over the course of his career, Bill helped countless individuals
facing behavioral health challenges. Many of those people later approached his
family to share stories of his compassion, guidance, and the lasting healing he
brought into their lives. In addition to his counseling work, Bill was a
successful businessman who owned western stores in Hutchinson and Hays, Kansas.
He raised his children to understand the importance of hard work and selfless
giving, dedicating many years to volunteering with the Rodeo Special Olympics
and other causes close to his heart. Through his mother’s lineage, Bill was a
proud member of the Chickasaw Tribe of Oklahoma, and later in life he took
meaningful steps to reconnect with and honor that heritage.Bill was a loyal husband to his wife, Susie Berger. Bill was
the proud father of three children; Bruce Berger of Ensign; Bret Berger and his
wife Tammy of Dodge City, and Christina Boyd and her husband Brent of Dodge
City. Bill was also blessed with two stepdaughters, Jill Miller and husband
Michael of Kansas City and Amy Grabbe of Hays. He was a cherished brother to
Linda Gass and her husband Randy and a proud grandfather to Ceara Berger, Cody
Berger, Taryn Berger, Collin Berger, Connor Berger, Sloan Berger, Payton
Berger, Ethan Grabbe, Liz Miller, Sam Miller, Maggie Housman, Elise Heim, as
well as a growing number of great-grandchildren who brought him joy. He was
preceded in death by his parents, 3 infant siblings, and daughter in law, Marca
Berger.Known for his easy laugh and warm spirit, Bill loved being
surrounded by friends and family and made those around him feel valued. Bill
was known for his love of thrift—some might call it frugal, others might even
say cheap—but it earned him the affectionate nickname 'Dollar Bill' from a
lifelong friend who appreciated this endearing quality. Common knowledge was
that Bill could fix anything with a little duct tape and bailing wire. Bill
would often find humor in the everyday and would laugh so hard until the joy
would leak from his eyes as tears. He treasured deep friendships that lasted
decades. He gave miles on the road, hours in the stands, and lots of love from
his heart to support his family down whatever path their own passions led them.
Some of the fondest memories that his kids have are of him cheering on their
dreams from the side of an arena. His legacy lives on through the many lives he
touched, the family he loved deeply, and the traditions he proudly carried
forward.Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him,
including his most loved dog and constant companion, Ginger.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Friday,
January 9, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays with Fr. Fred Gatschet
and Fr. Curtis Carlson, OFM Cap. officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow in
St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on
Thursday and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel
Funeral Home.&nbsp; A vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30 on Thursday at
the funeral home.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the
Humane Society of the High Plains or for masses.&nbsp; Condolences and memories
of Bill may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

William (Bill) R. Berger

Roger Lynn Reddig, 81, of
Russell, Kansas, passed away Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Wheatland Nursing
Center in Russell.

Roger was born January 26,
1944, in Russell.&nbsp; He was the son of James L. and Alvetia 'Fern\' (Phillips) Reddig.&nbsp; He grew up in Russell and Gorham, Kansas and attended
school in Gorham.

Roger was united in marriage
to Dona K. Harbaugh on June 15, 1962, in Russell.&nbsp; This union was blessed
with two children; Melisa and Eric.&nbsp; They made their home in Gorham and
then in Russell.

Roger has spent his whole
life in the oil industry.&nbsp; He was the owner and operator of Clover Oil
Company of Russell.&nbsp; He was a member of the Russell Masonic Lodge and the
Iris Shrine of Salina.&nbsp; In his spare time, he enjoyed going to car races
and classic car shows, trap shooting, watching the Denver Broncos, 4-wheeling
with family and friends, and his amateur radio.&nbsp; He especially loved
spending time with family.

Roger’s surviving family
include his wife of 63 years, Dona of the home; daughter, Melisa Kennedy (Tom)
of Dodge City, Kansas; son, Eric Reddig (Kelly) of Russell, Kansas; four
grandchildren, Kellen Kennedy (Laurie), Kourtney Soltero (Benny) of Dodge City,
Kansas, Kylie Reddig and Hunter Reddig (Kaitlyn) of Russell, KS; and six
great-grandchildren, Payton and Hayden Soltero of Dodge City, Kansas and
Kaycie, Sofie, Deklen and Waylen Kennedy of Hays, Kansas.

Roger was preceded in death
by his parents; infant son, Todd Reddig; and brother, Richard Reddig.

Celebration
of Roger’s Life will be held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, January 8, 2026, at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the
Russell City Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8 PM,
Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family
present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; Condolences may be sent
to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, which is in charge of these
arrangements.&nbsp; Flowers are appreciated; however, should you wish to contribute
to a memorial, donations may be made to Wheatland Nursing Home

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767715414209.jpeg" alt="Roger Lynn Reddig" />
 <figcaption>Roger Lynn Reddig</figcaption>
 </figure>Roger Lynn Reddig, 81, of
Russell, Kansas, passed away Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Wheatland Nursing
Center in Russell.Roger was born January 26,
1944, in Russell.&nbsp; He was the son of James L. and Alvetia 'Fern\' (Phillips) Reddig.&nbsp; He grew up in Russell and Gorham, Kansas and attended
school in Gorham.Roger was united in marriage
to Dona K. Harbaugh on June 15, 1962, in Russell.&nbsp; This union was blessed
with two children; Melisa and Eric.&nbsp; They made their home in Gorham and
then in Russell.Roger has spent his whole
life in the oil industry.&nbsp; He was the owner and operator of Clover Oil
Company of Russell.&nbsp; He was a member of the Russell Masonic Lodge and the
Iris Shrine of Salina.&nbsp; In his spare time, he enjoyed going to car races
and classic car shows, trap shooting, watching the Denver Broncos, 4-wheeling
with family and friends, and his amateur radio.&nbsp; He especially loved
spending time with family.Roger’s surviving family
include his wife of 63 years, Dona of the home; daughter, Melisa Kennedy (Tom)
of Dodge City, Kansas; son, Eric Reddig (Kelly) of Russell, Kansas; four
grandchildren, Kellen Kennedy (Laurie), Kourtney Soltero (Benny) of Dodge City,
Kansas, Kylie Reddig and Hunter Reddig (Kaitlyn) of Russell, KS; and six
great-grandchildren, Payton and Hayden Soltero of Dodge City, Kansas and
Kaycie, Sofie, Deklen and Waylen Kennedy of Hays, Kansas.Roger was preceded in death
by his parents; infant son, Todd Reddig; and brother, Richard Reddig.Celebration
of Roger’s Life will be held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, January 8, 2026, at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the
Russell City Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8 PM,
Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family
present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; Condolences may be sent
to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, which is in charge of these
arrangements.&nbsp; Flowers are appreciated; however, should you wish to contribute
to a memorial, donations may be made to Wheatland Nursing Home

Roger Lynn Reddig

Nancy Gaines Holland, 85, of
Russell, Kansas, passed away Sunday, January 4, 2026 at her home with her sons
by her side.

Nancy was born January 2,
1941, in Joplin, Missouri to Eugene and Emma Gaines.&nbsp; She grew up in
Joplin alongside her twin brother, Gene, forming a close family bond that
remained important throughout her life.&nbsp; Nancy graduated from Joplin High
School in the Class of 1959.&nbsp; She then attended Kansas University where
she obtained a degree in education.

Nancy met, fell in love, and
was united in marriage to Michael Shaffer Holland on February 5, 1972 in Kansas
City, Kansas.&nbsp; This union was blessed with two sons; Michael II and
Gene.&nbsp; They made their home in Russell.&nbsp; Michael preceded her in
death on June 7, 2007.

Shortly after graduation from
KU, she taught elementary school in Kansas City, Kansas for four years before
moving to Russell. She resumed her teaching at the Trinity United Methodist
church as a Sunday school teacher in Russell and taught many children over the
years. 

Nancy’s professional career
included being the CEO of NGH Operations and Manager of Holland Farms. 

Her community was her main
focus in life, where she served on the Russell City Council for over 12
years.&nbsp; Nancy was a Co-Founder of Russell Main Street and lead the
revitalization of downtown and Lamp Post project. Nancy and Mike were lifelong
supporters of the Holland Fund for Russell Regional Hospital and she was a
Co-Chair of the Campaign for Excellence to build the Physicians Clinic. Founder
of the Friends of Deines Cultural Center nonprofit organization, as she
inspired many young artists with her own artistic talents she used throughout
the years in fine arts, architectural and landscape design. She served on the
Russell Community Theatre board and was a major sponsor of the Ad Astra Concert
Series. Nancy was active with the Post Rock Family Services and was a member of
the local P.E.O Chapter HD. She supported the Bronco Vocational Training Fund
with the Russell High School, the Nancy Holland Fund For The Arts with USD 407,
and was very active in the Russell County Area Community Foundation.&nbsp; She
served on the Russell County Hospital Board, the Russell Chamber of Commerce
board and received the Lifetime Achievement Award. 

Nancy’s surviving family
include her two sons, Michael Shaffer Holland, II (Nadia) of Russell, Kansas
and Gene Gaines Holland (Mary) of Golden, Colorado; four grandchildren, Elsie
Holland, Cole Michael Holland, Zane Colvin and Jack Colvin.

Nancy was preceded in death
by her parents; husband Michael; and twin brother, Gene Gaines.

Nancy Gaines Holland will be
remembered for her loving spirit and unwavering commitment to her family and
community. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched, the
communities she strengthened, and the family she loved.

Celebration of Nancy’s Life
will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Trinity United Methodist
Church of Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery.&nbsp;
Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary with the family present to greet friends from
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; A Memorial has been established with R.C.A.C.F.&nbsp;
Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary,
who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767713494763.jpeg" alt="Nancy Gaines Holland" />
 <figcaption>Nancy Gaines Holland</figcaption>
 </figure>Nancy Gaines Holland, 85, of
Russell, Kansas, passed away Sunday, January 4, 2026 at her home with her sons
by her side.Nancy was born January 2,
1941, in Joplin, Missouri to Eugene and Emma Gaines.&nbsp; She grew up in
Joplin alongside her twin brother, Gene, forming a close family bond that
remained important throughout her life.&nbsp; Nancy graduated from Joplin High
School in the Class of 1959.&nbsp; She then attended Kansas University where
she obtained a degree in education.Nancy met, fell in love, and
was united in marriage to Michael Shaffer Holland on February 5, 1972 in Kansas
City, Kansas.&nbsp; This union was blessed with two sons; Michael II and
Gene.&nbsp; They made their home in Russell.&nbsp; Michael preceded her in
death on June 7, 2007.Shortly after graduation from
KU, she taught elementary school in Kansas City, Kansas for four years before
moving to Russell. She resumed her teaching at the Trinity United Methodist
church as a Sunday school teacher in Russell and taught many children over the
years. Nancy’s professional career
included being the CEO of NGH Operations and Manager of Holland Farms. Her community was her main
focus in life, where she served on the Russell City Council for over 12
years.&nbsp; Nancy was a Co-Founder of Russell Main Street and lead the
revitalization of downtown and Lamp Post project. Nancy and Mike were lifelong
supporters of the Holland Fund for Russell Regional Hospital and she was a
Co-Chair of the Campaign for Excellence to build the Physicians Clinic. Founder
of the Friends of Deines Cultural Center nonprofit organization, as she
inspired many young artists with her own artistic talents she used throughout
the years in fine arts, architectural and landscape design. She served on the
Russell Community Theatre board and was a major sponsor of the Ad Astra Concert
Series. Nancy was active with the Post Rock Family Services and was a member of
the local P.E.O Chapter HD. She supported the Bronco Vocational Training Fund
with the Russell High School, the Nancy Holland Fund For The Arts with USD 407,
and was very active in the Russell County Area Community Foundation.&nbsp; She
served on the Russell County Hospital Board, the Russell Chamber of Commerce
board and received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Nancy’s surviving family
include her two sons, Michael Shaffer Holland, II (Nadia) of Russell, Kansas
and Gene Gaines Holland (Mary) of Golden, Colorado; four grandchildren, Elsie
Holland, Cole Michael Holland, Zane Colvin and Jack Colvin.Nancy was preceded in death
by her parents; husband Michael; and twin brother, Gene Gaines.Nancy Gaines Holland will be
remembered for her loving spirit and unwavering commitment to her family and
community. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched, the
communities she strengthened, and the family she loved.Celebration of Nancy’s Life
will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Trinity United Methodist
Church of Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery.&nbsp;
Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary with the family present to greet friends from
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; A Memorial has been established with R.C.A.C.F.&nbsp;
Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary,
who is in charge of these arrangements.

Nancy Gaines Holland

John Adolph Thurow, 79, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Azria Woodhaven Nursing Home in Great Bend, Kansas.

John was born on November 6, 1946, in St. Luke’s Hospital in Denver, Colorado. He was the son of Arnold William, Sr., and Marion Maxine (Held) Thurow. He grew up on several ranches in Colorado. The first was the Flying A Angus Ranch in Hayden, Colorado. Also, the Seven J Ranch at Steamboat Springs and the Lakeview Angus Farm in Broomfield. 

He attended grade school in Broomfield and Hayden. His family moved to Denver in May 1961. While he was in junior and senior high, he was a member of the wrestling and football teams. 

He graduated from Denver East High School in 1964. After high school, John attended several Junior colleges. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley.

John’s first teaching position was at Saguache High School, where he taught physical education and coached wrestling and football. He then moved back to Denver and taught at Bishop Machebeuf Parochial High School. He taught physical education, coached wrestling, girls’ volleyball, girls’ track, and was an assistant football coach. John moved to Great Bend, Kansas, in 1987. He was hired to be the Head Wrestling Coach and teach physical education at Harrison Junior High in Great Bend, then moved to the Middle School and finally to Great Bend High School. He was the Wrestling Coach from 1987 to 2002. 

During his wrestling career with Great Bend, his wrestlers were WAC Champions in 1991, Regional Champs in 1988, 1991 and 1999. His teams placed 5th at the State Tournament in 1988 and 2nd in 1999. He also had four State Champions in 1989. 1993, 1999 and 2001. Wrestling was his true passion. He was very proud to know some of his former wrestlers are now coaches and referee matches.

On December 31, 1991, John married Janet (Brown) Milke. He gained stepchildren who he regarded as his own: twins, Anliet and Jarred Milke. They made their home in the country near Ellinwood, Kansas.

The family enjoyed sharing John’s beloved Colorado by taking trips to a variety of places in Colorado; also, in Utah, Wyoming and South Dakota. His favorite place to share is the family's one-room log cabin near Steamboat Springs. The cabin was built in 1966 by John, his father and brother, with the help of a couple of friends. Many adventures were shared at the cabin with beautiful views of the mountains and Marren Creek. John retired from USD 428 in 2008. During his retirement, he enjoyed farming his family land near Ellinwood. John, Janet and Jarred moved to Russell in December of 2013.

John’s surviving family include his wife of 33 years, Janet of the home; his children, Anliet Milke of Wichita, Kansas and Jarred Milke of Russell, Kansas; his sister, Pam Thurow of Greeley, Colorado; sister-in-law, Zanna Thurow of Evans, Colorado; nieces, Tammy Schneider (Bill) and Wendy Thurow; great nieces and great nephews; cousins; close friend, Lonnie Carter and his fellow coaches and colleagues. Thank you to the people at Sonic, USA Express, McDonald’s and Prost for the kindness you showed John.

John was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Bill Thurow Jr.

The family is planning a scattering of Ashes in the Summer of 2026 at the family cabin in Colorado. 

A memorial has been established with the Great Bend Wrestling Team. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767638865874.png" alt="John Thurow" />
 <figcaption>John Thurow</figcaption>
 </figure>John Adolph Thurow, 79, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Azria Woodhaven Nursing Home in Great Bend, Kansas.John was born on November 6, 1946, in St. Luke’s Hospital in Denver, Colorado. He was the son of Arnold William, Sr., and Marion Maxine (Held) Thurow. He grew up on several ranches in Colorado. The first was the Flying A Angus Ranch in Hayden, Colorado. Also, the Seven J Ranch at Steamboat Springs and the Lakeview Angus Farm in Broomfield. He attended grade school in Broomfield and Hayden. His family moved to Denver in May 1961. While he was in junior and senior high, he was a member of the wrestling and football teams. He graduated from Denver East High School in 1964. After high school, John attended several Junior colleges. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley.John’s first teaching position was at Saguache High School, where he taught physical education and coached wrestling and football. He then moved back to Denver and taught at Bishop Machebeuf Parochial High School. He taught physical education, coached wrestling, girls’ volleyball, girls’ track, and was an assistant football coach. John moved to Great Bend, Kansas, in 1987. He was hired to be the Head Wrestling Coach and teach physical education at Harrison Junior High in Great Bend, then moved to the Middle School and finally to Great Bend High School. He was the Wrestling Coach from 1987 to 2002. During his wrestling career with Great Bend, his wrestlers were WAC Champions in 1991, Regional Champs in 1988, 1991 and 1999. His teams placed 5th at the State Tournament in 1988 and 2nd in 1999. He also had four State Champions in 1989. 1993, 1999 and 2001. Wrestling was his true passion. He was very proud to know some of his former wrestlers are now coaches and referee matches.On December 31, 1991, John married Janet (Brown) Milke. He gained stepchildren who he regarded as his own: twins, Anliet and Jarred Milke. They made their home in the country near Ellinwood, Kansas.The family enjoyed sharing John’s beloved Colorado by taking trips to a variety of places in Colorado; also, in Utah, Wyoming and South Dakota. His favorite place to share is the family's one-room log cabin near Steamboat Springs. The cabin was built in 1966 by John, his father and brother, with the help of a couple of friends. Many adventures were shared at the cabin with beautiful views of the mountains and Marren Creek. John retired from USD 428 in 2008. During his retirement, he enjoyed farming his family land near Ellinwood. John, Janet and Jarred moved to Russell in December of 2013.John’s surviving family include his wife of 33 years, Janet of the home; his children, Anliet Milke of Wichita, Kansas and Jarred Milke of Russell, Kansas; his sister, Pam Thurow of Greeley, Colorado; sister-in-law, Zanna Thurow of Evans, Colorado; nieces, Tammy Schneider (Bill) and Wendy Thurow; great nieces and great nephews; cousins; close friend, Lonnie Carter and his fellow coaches and colleagues. Thank you to the people at Sonic, USA Express, McDonald’s and Prost for the kindness you showed John.John was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Bill Thurow Jr.The family is planning a scattering of Ashes in the Summer of 2026 at the family cabin in Colorado. A memorial has been established with the Great Bend Wrestling Team. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

John Adolph Thurow

Join our new Hays Post Newsletter and receive the top news stories from your community every morning in your email inbox plus one-click access to the latest obituaries.&nbsp;

Join our new Hays Post Newsletter and receive the top news stories from your community every morning in your email inbox plus one-click access to the latest obituaries.&nbsp;Sign up today for free.<div><script src="https://xp.audience.io/widget.js"></script>

<div class="aptivada-widget" data-widget-id="1732609" data-widget-type="app" >
 <div>
 <div style="background:#ffffff url('https://cdn3.aptivada.com/images/iframeLoader.gif') no-repeat center; min-height:500px;"></div>
 <a style="display:block; max-width: fit-content; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank" href="https://xp.audience.io/contest/1732609">Campaign not loading? Click here</a>
 </div>
</div></div>

Sign up for free Hays Post Newsletter

Mark H. Quigley, 73, Hays, died Thursday, January 1, 2026, at HaysMed.

He was born August 8, 1952, in Larned, Kansas, the son of Clarence “Al” and Virginia (Reed) Quigley. Mark graduated from Hays High School, and on June 23, 1973, he was united in marriage to Becky Augustine in Hays.

Mark worked in the field of transportation and logistics. He was employed at Northwest Distributors, Inc. for over 25 years as a driver with multiple HazMat certifications and as an order administrator. 

In 2002, he joined USD 489 as a bus driver and route planner, and in 2003, he won the Kansas State Pupil Transportation Association, Northwest District, School Bus Safety Road-E-O competition. Mark was known for his dedication to the students he transported and to supporting his coworkers at USD 489.

Mark’s passions included coaching youth softball, grandfather clocks, and fixing almost anything he could get his hands on. He was especially skilled at plumbing, landscaping, and automotive work, and was a patient problem solver by nature. 

Mark was a big supporter of KU basketball and Chiefs football. He loved traveling, especially to mountainous and coastal areas. His love for Estes Park, Colorado, was unrivaled, and being on a sailboat was his slice of heaven on earth. As an avid history enthusiast, Mark did genealogy on his great-grandfather, who fought for the Union at the Battle of Gettysburg, and he had the opportunity to visit the battlefield with a trained guide to show the specific areas where his predecessor served.

Survivors include his wife, Becky of Hays, son Chad Quigley and wife Tara of Overland Park, daughter Amber Delcamp and husband Josh of Hays, his grandchildren Tyler Quigley of New York City, Helen Cappuccio of Hays, and Anna Cappuccio of Hays, his siblings Mary Sloan and husband Larry of Albert and Chris Quigley and wife Tina of Hays, two sisters-in-law Kathy Quigley of Manhattan and Linda Quigley of Mulvane, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers CA and Dan Quigley, and an infant brother, Michael Bruce Quigley.

Funeral Services will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Fr. Nick Parker officiating. 

Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, and from 10 a.m. until service time on Wednesday, all at the funeral home.

Recitation of the Rosary will be at 7 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. 

Memorials are suggested to The Salvation Army of Hays. Condolences and memories of Mark may be left for his family at <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">www.haysmemorial.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767387026242.jpeg" alt="Mark Quigley" />
 <figcaption>Mark Quigley</figcaption>
 </figure>Mark H. Quigley, 73, Hays, died Thursday, January 1, 2026, at HaysMed.He was born August 8, 1952, in Larned, Kansas, the son of Clarence “Al” and Virginia (Reed) Quigley. Mark graduated from Hays High School, and on June 23, 1973, he was united in marriage to Becky Augustine in Hays.Mark worked in the field of transportation and logistics. He was employed at Northwest Distributors, Inc. for over 25 years as a driver with multiple HazMat certifications and as an order administrator. In 2002, he joined USD 489 as a bus driver and route planner, and in 2003, he won the Kansas State Pupil Transportation Association, Northwest District, School Bus Safety Road-E-O competition. Mark was known for his dedication to the students he transported and to supporting his coworkers at USD 489.Mark’s passions included coaching youth softball, grandfather clocks, and fixing almost anything he could get his hands on. He was especially skilled at plumbing, landscaping, and automotive work, and was a patient problem solver by nature. Mark was a big supporter of KU basketball and Chiefs football. He loved traveling, especially to mountainous and coastal areas. His love for Estes Park, Colorado, was unrivaled, and being on a sailboat was his slice of heaven on earth. As an avid history enthusiast, Mark did genealogy on his great-grandfather, who fought for the Union at the Battle of Gettysburg, and he had the opportunity to visit the battlefield with a trained guide to show the specific areas where his predecessor served.Survivors include his wife, Becky of Hays, son Chad Quigley and wife Tara of Overland Park, daughter Amber Delcamp and husband Josh of Hays, his grandchildren Tyler Quigley of New York City, Helen Cappuccio of Hays, and Anna Cappuccio of Hays, his siblings Mary Sloan and husband Larry of Albert and Chris Quigley and wife Tina of Hays, two sisters-in-law Kathy Quigley of Manhattan and Linda Quigley of Mulvane, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers CA and Dan Quigley, and an infant brother, Michael Bruce Quigley.Funeral Services will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Fr. Nick Parker officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, and from 10 a.m. until service time on Wednesday, all at the funeral home.Recitation of the Rosary will be at 7 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to The Salvation Army of Hays. Condolences and memories of Mark may be left for his family at <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">www.haysmemorial.com</a>.

Mark H. Quigley

Donald Galen
Emerick, 99, of Hoxie, Kansas died December 30, 2025, at Amber Med Long Term
Care in Hoxie. 

Don was born
August 28, 1926, on a farm near Hamburg, Illinois, to George Louis and Louise
Marie (Heil) Emerick. In 1944, Don graduated from Griggsville High School,
Griggsville, Illinois. World War II was raging and knowing he would be drafted,
Don enlisted in the US Army and was sent to the island of Luzon in the
Philippines where he became a driver for an amphibious truck (duk) company.
When the war ended in 1945, he was assigned to the American Occupation Forces
in Japan until December 1946. 

In the spring
of 1947, Don came to Kansas to work in the wheat harvest. In Quinter, Kansas he
met Dolores Roberta Sanders and after a two-year courtship, they married
September 19, 1949, at Sacred Heart Church, Park, Kansas. To their union were
born four children: Diana Jane, David Lee, Darlene, and Douglas Shane.

After attending
Stevens Automotive School in Kansas City, Missouri, Don began a career as an
automotive mechanic. In 1963, Don opened his own business, Don’s Alinement, in
Hoxie, which he owned and operated until 1989 when he sold his business to his
son, Dave. In the 1970s, Don also started Emerick Motorhome Service. 

He was an avid
hunter and fisherman. Ducks, geese, pheasants, elk, deer, mountain lions,
turkey – he hunted them all! His successful racoon hunting led to him being
nicknamed “Coonie,” and his passion was Walleye fishing. Don continued hunting
and fishing through his 97th year.

Don and Dolores
traveled all over the United States and Mexico in their motorhome. From the
Florida Keys to Niagra Falls to Disneyland in California, they enjoyed the RV
life. 

&nbsp;After Dolores passed away in 2015, Don enjoyed
the companionship of a special friend, Myrna Prewett of Beloit, KS. 

He entered the
Amber Med Long Term Care in Hoxie, KS in September 2025, and resided there at
the time of his death.

He was preceded
in death by his wife, Dolores; his parents; his brother Roger Emerick, and his
sister Joyce Emerick Maffin. 

Don is survived
by his four children: Diana Emerick, Colby, KS; David (Joanne) &nbsp;Emerick, Hoxie, KS; Darlene Emerick, Bailey,
CO, and Doug (Stacy) Emerick, Plainville, KS; and two grandchildren: Tanner
Emerick, Mt. Hope, KS; Jasmine Emerick, Fort Collins, CO.

A Mass of
Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM, Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the
St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in Hoxie, Kansas. Visitation will be held
at the Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, January 2, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM
will family receiving friends from 5:30 PM until 7:00 PM. The Vigil and Rosary
Service will immediately follow Visitation at 7:00 P.M.

Memorial are
suggested to the St. Frances Cabrini Cemetery, Sheridan County Benefit Walk, or
Masses. Memorials may be sent in care of Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO Box
987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740.
Posted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767203526511.jpeg" alt="Donald Galen Emerick" />
 <figcaption>Donald Galen Emerick</figcaption>
 </figure>Donald Galen
Emerick, 99, of Hoxie, Kansas died December 30, 2025, at Amber Med Long Term
Care in Hoxie. Don was born
August 28, 1926, on a farm near Hamburg, Illinois, to George Louis and Louise
Marie (Heil) Emerick. In 1944, Don graduated from Griggsville High School,
Griggsville, Illinois. World War II was raging and knowing he would be drafted,
Don enlisted in the US Army and was sent to the island of Luzon in the
Philippines where he became a driver for an amphibious truck (duk) company.
When the war ended in 1945, he was assigned to the American Occupation Forces
in Japan until December 1946. In the spring
of 1947, Don came to Kansas to work in the wheat harvest. In Quinter, Kansas he
met Dolores Roberta Sanders and after a two-year courtship, they married
September 19, 1949, at Sacred Heart Church, Park, Kansas. To their union were
born four children: Diana Jane, David Lee, Darlene, and Douglas Shane.After attending
Stevens Automotive School in Kansas City, Missouri, Don began a career as an
automotive mechanic. In 1963, Don opened his own business, Don’s Alinement, in
Hoxie, which he owned and operated until 1989 when he sold his business to his
son, Dave. In the 1970s, Don also started Emerick Motorhome Service. He was an avid
hunter and fisherman. Ducks, geese, pheasants, elk, deer, mountain lions,
turkey – he hunted them all! His successful racoon hunting led to him being
nicknamed “Coonie,” and his passion was Walleye fishing. Don continued hunting
and fishing through his 97th year.Don and Dolores
traveled all over the United States and Mexico in their motorhome. From the
Florida Keys to Niagra Falls to Disneyland in California, they enjoyed the RV
life. &nbsp;After Dolores passed away in 2015, Don enjoyed
the companionship of a special friend, Myrna Prewett of Beloit, KS. He entered the
Amber Med Long Term Care in Hoxie, KS in September 2025, and resided there at
the time of his death.He was preceded
in death by his wife, Dolores; his parents; his brother Roger Emerick, and his
sister Joyce Emerick Maffin. Don is survived
by his four children: Diana Emerick, Colby, KS; David (Joanne) &nbsp;Emerick, Hoxie, KS; Darlene Emerick, Bailey,
CO, and Doug (Stacy) Emerick, Plainville, KS; and two grandchildren: Tanner
Emerick, Mt. Hope, KS; Jasmine Emerick, Fort Collins, CO.A Mass of
Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM, Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the
St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church in Hoxie, Kansas. Visitation will be held
at the Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, January 2, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM
will family receiving friends from 5:30 PM until 7:00 PM. The Vigil and Rosary
Service will immediately follow Visitation at 7:00 P.M.Memorial are
suggested to the St. Frances Cabrini Cemetery, Sheridan County Benefit Walk, or
Masses. Memorials may be sent in care of Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO Box
987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740.
Posted.

Donald Galen Emerick

Longtime Goodland, KS resident Patricia Ann Hansen, 82,
passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025 at the Topside Manor in Goodland.

Pat was born on January 15, 1943 in Flint, Michigan to Leo
and Abigail (Green) Tipton.&nbsp; She was one
of seven children.&nbsp; She attended school
in Stockton, KS and attended Stockton High School.&nbsp; She completed her Master’s Degree in 1993 at
Fort Hays State University in Hays, KS.

On July 5, 1997, Pat married Wallace Hansen in Goodland, KS.

She worked for many years as a special education teacher
with the Goodland USD 352 school system.&nbsp;
She moved from Hays to Goodland where she lived for over 30 years.&nbsp; 

She
found joy in reading, playing cards and dominos,&nbsp;and spending time with
the family and friends she held close to her heart. She was proud to serve in
the VFW Women’s Auxiliary, Chapter 122 Eastern Star,&nbsp;and delighted in
cheering on her Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals.&nbsp; Above all, she loved her family.&nbsp;

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, her two brothers
Robert and Wayne Tipton, four sisters Dolores Mangold, Edna Stice, Merna Poore
and an infant sister Anna Louise Tipton.

She is survived by her husband Wallace Hansen of Goodland,
her children Joelene (David) Vitztum of Hays, KS, Janice (Steve) Jacobs of
Hays, KS, James (Sher) Maska of Hays, KS, Jon (Debbie) Maska of Gardner, KS,
Mike (Trish) Hansen of O’Fallon, MO, Kurt (Michaela) Hansen of Columbus, NE,
Chris (Ulcca) Hansen of Durango, CO and Jeff (Margret) Hansen of Olathe,
KS.&nbsp; She is also survived by 23
grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, January 2,
2026 at 11:00 AM MT at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church with Father
Carlos Ruiz officiating.&nbsp; A Rosary
service was held at 10:30 AM Saturday at the Church.&nbsp; Burial was held on Saturday, January 3, 2026
at 11:00 AM CT at the Red Cloud Cemetery in Red Cloud, NE.

Visitation was held on Thursday, January 1, 2026 from 5:00
to 7:00 PM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS
67735.

Memorial contributions may be made out to the Goodland USD
352 Special Education Department, the Goodland United Methodist Church or to
the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and may be left at the services or mailed to
Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

Online condolences to the family may be left at <a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.

Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home
in Goodland, KS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767148844744.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Patricia Ann Hansen" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Patricia Ann Hansen</figcaption>
 </figure>Longtime Goodland, KS resident Patricia Ann Hansen, 82,
passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025 at the Topside Manor in Goodland.Pat was born on January 15, 1943 in Flint, Michigan to Leo
and Abigail (Green) Tipton.&nbsp; She was one
of seven children.&nbsp; She attended school
in Stockton, KS and attended Stockton High School.&nbsp; She completed her Master’s Degree in 1993 at
Fort Hays State University in Hays, KS.On July 5, 1997, Pat married Wallace Hansen in Goodland, KS.She worked for many years as a special education teacher
with the Goodland USD 352 school system.&nbsp;
She moved from Hays to Goodland where she lived for over 30 years.&nbsp; She
found joy in reading, playing cards and dominos,&nbsp;and spending time with
the family and friends she held close to her heart. She was proud to serve in
the VFW Women’s Auxiliary, Chapter 122 Eastern Star,&nbsp;and delighted in
cheering on her Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals.&nbsp; Above all, she loved her family.&nbsp;Pat was preceded in death by her parents, her two brothers
Robert and Wayne Tipton, four sisters Dolores Mangold, Edna Stice, Merna Poore
and an infant sister Anna Louise Tipton.She is survived by her husband Wallace Hansen of Goodland,
her children Joelene (David) Vitztum of Hays, KS, Janice (Steve) Jacobs of
Hays, KS, James (Sher) Maska of Hays, KS, Jon (Debbie) Maska of Gardner, KS,
Mike (Trish) Hansen of O’Fallon, MO, Kurt (Michaela) Hansen of Columbus, NE,
Chris (Ulcca) Hansen of Durango, CO and Jeff (Margret) Hansen of Olathe,
KS.&nbsp; She is also survived by 23
grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday, January 2,
2026 at 11:00 AM MT at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church with Father
Carlos Ruiz officiating.&nbsp; A Rosary
service was held at 10:30 AM Saturday at the Church.&nbsp; Burial was held on Saturday, January 3, 2026
at 11:00 AM CT at the Red Cloud Cemetery in Red Cloud, NE.Visitation was held on Thursday, January 1, 2026 from 5:00
to 7:00 PM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS
67735.Memorial contributions may be made out to the Goodland USD
352 Special Education Department, the Goodland United Methodist Church or to
the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and may be left at the services or mailed to
Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.Online condolences to the family may be left at <a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home
in Goodland, KS.

 Patricia Ann Hansen

JoAnn Eckles Fleharty, a beloved sister, wife, mother,
grandmother, great grandmother and dedicated community volunteer, passed away
peacefully on December 25, 2025, in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/kansas/topeka-area" target="_blank">Topeka, KS</a>,
at the age of 92. Born on October 27, 1933, in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/nebraska/nelson" target="_blank">Nelson, NE</a>,
she spent her life cultivating deep connections in Hays where she lived for 62
years.

JoAnn married Eugene Dale Fleharty on August 12, 1955, and their
union was a testament to enduring love, marked by shared adventures and
cherished memories. Family she leaves behind include her daughter, Debbie
(Kevin) Culley; her son, Chris (Donna) Fleharty; her sister, Barbara (Dwight)
Ittner; and her beloved grandchildren, Ann Culley, John (Michelle) Culley,
Renee (Chris) Stefani, and Kristen (Thayne) Griffin. She was also a proud
great-grandmother to Shannon, Peter, Erin, Parker, Hudson, and Desmond, each
bringing her much joy.

JoAnn was known for her tireless dedication to the Hays
community where she served as the Welcome Wagon Lady for many years, greeting
newcomers to the city and reflecting her warm-hearted nature. JoAnn volunteered
at Hays Medical Center for over thirty years, was actively involved in the
First Presbyterian Church, and participated on the Hays Beautification
Committee.

JoAnn cherished summer vacations that took her and her loved
ones across the United States. These adventures fostered strong bonds and
wonderful memories. JoAnn's enthusiasm for life extended to her hobbies as
well, from playing bridge, to working in her yard, to attending FHSU sports and
activities, to satisfying her sweet tooth with coffee ice cream and pecan pie.

An avid baseball fan, JoAnn cheered enthusiastically for the
Royals, and she was a dedicated supporter of the FHSU softball team. Her quiet
strength and faithful commitment to those around her created a legacy of love
that will be remembered fondly by all who were privileged to know her.

JoAnn is preceded in death by her father, Dewey Dean Eckles; her
mother, Helen Louvinia Eckles; and her sister, Donna (Ray) Bise.

Friends and family will deeply miss JoAnn's kindness, open
hospitality, gentleness, and steadfast service. She leaves behind a legacy that
will continue to inspire compassion in the hearts of those she touched
throughout her life.

A celebration of JoAnn's life will be held at 11 a.m. on
Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall St,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/kansas/hays" target="_blank">Hays, KS</a>&nbsp;67601.

Memorial contributions may be made to FHSU Athletics or to the
First Presbyterian Church.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767110084096.jpeg" alt="JoAnn Eckles Fleharty" />
 <figcaption>JoAnn Eckles Fleharty</figcaption>
 </figure>JoAnn Eckles Fleharty, a beloved sister, wife, mother,
grandmother, great grandmother and dedicated community volunteer, passed away
peacefully on December 25, 2025, in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/kansas/topeka-area" target="_blank">Topeka, KS</a>,
at the age of 92. Born on October 27, 1933, in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/nebraska/nelson" target="_blank">Nelson, NE</a>,
she spent her life cultivating deep connections in Hays where she lived for 62
years.JoAnn married Eugene Dale Fleharty on August 12, 1955, and their
union was a testament to enduring love, marked by shared adventures and
cherished memories. Family she leaves behind include her daughter, Debbie
(Kevin) Culley; her son, Chris (Donna) Fleharty; her sister, Barbara (Dwight)
Ittner; and her beloved grandchildren, Ann Culley, John (Michelle) Culley,
Renee (Chris) Stefani, and Kristen (Thayne) Griffin. She was also a proud
great-grandmother to Shannon, Peter, Erin, Parker, Hudson, and Desmond, each
bringing her much joy.JoAnn was known for her tireless dedication to the Hays
community where she served as the Welcome Wagon Lady for many years, greeting
newcomers to the city and reflecting her warm-hearted nature. JoAnn volunteered
at Hays Medical Center for over thirty years, was actively involved in the
First Presbyterian Church, and participated on the Hays Beautification
Committee.JoAnn cherished summer vacations that took her and her loved
ones across the United States. These adventures fostered strong bonds and
wonderful memories. JoAnn's enthusiasm for life extended to her hobbies as
well, from playing bridge, to working in her yard, to attending FHSU sports and
activities, to satisfying her sweet tooth with coffee ice cream and pecan pie.An avid baseball fan, JoAnn cheered enthusiastically for the
Royals, and she was a dedicated supporter of the FHSU softball team. Her quiet
strength and faithful commitment to those around her created a legacy of love
that will be remembered fondly by all who were privileged to know her.JoAnn is preceded in death by her father, Dewey Dean Eckles; her
mother, Helen Louvinia Eckles; and her sister, Donna (Ray) Bise.Friends and family will deeply miss JoAnn's kindness, open
hospitality, gentleness, and steadfast service. She leaves behind a legacy that
will continue to inspire compassion in the hearts of those she touched
throughout her life.A celebration of JoAnn's life will be held at 11 a.m. on
Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall St,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/local/kansas/hays" target="_blank">Hays, KS</a>&nbsp;67601.Memorial contributions may be made to FHSU Athletics or to the
First Presbyterian Church.

JoAnn Eckles Fleharty

Deborah Anne Lindenman, daughter of Kenneth and Geraldine (Cochran) Corns
was born at Fort Sill Army Base in Lawton, Oklahoma November 9, 1949 and passed
away at the age of&nbsp; 76, December 26,
2025, in Hoxie, Kansas. She spent her early childhood growing up on army bases
in Washington, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Alaska. When Deborah was 11,
the family moved home to Norton, Kansas. She graduated&nbsp; from Norton Community High School in 1968.

Deborah married John Lindenman May 22, 1971 in Norton, Kansas. They
welcomed their first child Tamara into the world August 16, 1972.&nbsp; February 20, 1975, they welcomed a son Shawn.
A second son, Cory arrived March 7, 1977. The family was later blessed with
another son Brent&nbsp; September 29, 1981.

Deborah devoted many years to serving students as a speech-language
paraprofessional, working in both the Morland and the Hill City schools. She
had a special gift for connecting with students and took immense pride in
helping them learn, grow, and succeed. In addition to her work in the
classroom, she served on the Morland School board and served as a cheer sponsor
at Morland High School, supporting and encouraging countless students along the
way.

After retiring from the Hill City school system, Deborah continued her
passion for helping children by participating in the Foster Grandparent
Program, volunteering at the Hill City Grade School, where she once again made
a lasting impact on young lives.

Her grandkids were her joy, she could be seen attending as many events as
possible: school and church programs, basketball, volleyball, and football
games,&nbsp; cross-country, track and golf,
dance competitions and recitals. Her grandchildren, both near and far, made her
proud. 

She is survived
by her husband John, of Morland; daughter Tamara (Roger) VanLoenen, Hill City;
sons: Shawn (Melissa) Lindenman, of Morland, Cory (Beth) Lindenman, of
Winfield, Brent Lindenman, of Central City, Nebraska; grandchildren: Leslie
(Nathan) Hanna, of&nbsp; Topeka, Shaelynn
VanLoenen and fiancé, Brenton Lumpkins, of Russell, Gabriella (Tyler) Krueger,
of Kensington, Jacob and Leah Lindenman, of Morland, Breckyn Lindenman, of
Nashville, Tennessee, Brody and Cale Lindenman, both of Winfield, and Aria Hodge
and Mila Lindenman, of Central City, Nebraska; great grandchildren, Lochlyn and
Lakyn Hanna, and Galveston Krueger; sisters-in law: Lois (Wayne) Richmeier, of
Morland, Rita (Duane) Feely&nbsp; of
Independence, Missouri, Caroline (Ron) Bartlett, Goddard, Thea (Lance) Pfeifer,
of Concord, North Carolina, Julia Rabuck, of Manhattan; brothers-in-law: Elvin
Edgett, of WaKeeney, Wade (Chris) Lindenman, of Edmond, Oklahoma, Ken
Schamberger, of Blue Springs, Missouri;&nbsp;
niece Stacie Edgett-Minson, of WaKeeney, great nephews:&nbsp; Carter (Bailey) Minson, of Mechanicsburg,
Pennsylvania and Cooper Minson, WaKeeney, and many nieces, nephews, great
nieces and great nephews.

Deborah was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Geraldine
Corns; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Elmer and Elva Lindenman; sister,
Pamela Edgett; brother, David Corns; aunt, Marcia Cochran; sister-in-law,
Doreen Schamberger; brother-in-law, Roger Rabuck; grandparents, aunts and
uncles.

Visitation will be Tuesday,
December 30, 2025 from 5 to 7p.m. at Stinemetz Funeral Home, Hill City, Kansas.

Funeral Services Wednesday,&nbsp; December 31, 2025 at 11:00
a.m. at the Hill City United Methodist Church, Hill City, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767038350532.jpeg" alt="Deborah Anne Lindenman" />
 <figcaption>Deborah Anne Lindenman</figcaption>
 </figure>Deborah Anne Lindenman, daughter of Kenneth and Geraldine (Cochran) Corns
was born at Fort Sill Army Base in Lawton, Oklahoma November 9, 1949 and passed
away at the age of&nbsp; 76, December 26,
2025, in Hoxie, Kansas. She spent her early childhood growing up on army bases
in Washington, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Alaska. When Deborah was 11,
the family moved home to Norton, Kansas. She graduated&nbsp; from Norton Community High School in 1968.Deborah married John Lindenman May 22, 1971 in Norton, Kansas. They
welcomed their first child Tamara into the world August 16, 1972.&nbsp; February 20, 1975, they welcomed a son Shawn.
A second son, Cory arrived March 7, 1977. The family was later blessed with
another son Brent&nbsp; September 29, 1981.Deborah devoted many years to serving students as a speech-language
paraprofessional, working in both the Morland and the Hill City schools. She
had a special gift for connecting with students and took immense pride in
helping them learn, grow, and succeed. In addition to her work in the
classroom, she served on the Morland School board and served as a cheer sponsor
at Morland High School, supporting and encouraging countless students along the
way.After retiring from the Hill City school system, Deborah continued her
passion for helping children by participating in the Foster Grandparent
Program, volunteering at the Hill City Grade School, where she once again made
a lasting impact on young lives.Her grandkids were her joy, she could be seen attending as many events as
possible: school and church programs, basketball, volleyball, and football
games,&nbsp; cross-country, track and golf,
dance competitions and recitals. Her grandchildren, both near and far, made her
proud. She is survived
by her husband John, of Morland; daughter Tamara (Roger) VanLoenen, Hill City;
sons: Shawn (Melissa) Lindenman, of Morland, Cory (Beth) Lindenman, of
Winfield, Brent Lindenman, of Central City, Nebraska; grandchildren: Leslie
(Nathan) Hanna, of&nbsp; Topeka, Shaelynn
VanLoenen and fiancé, Brenton Lumpkins, of Russell, Gabriella (Tyler) Krueger,
of Kensington, Jacob and Leah Lindenman, of Morland, Breckyn Lindenman, of
Nashville, Tennessee, Brody and Cale Lindenman, both of Winfield, and Aria Hodge
and Mila Lindenman, of Central City, Nebraska; great grandchildren, Lochlyn and
Lakyn Hanna, and Galveston Krueger; sisters-in law: Lois (Wayne) Richmeier, of
Morland, Rita (Duane) Feely&nbsp; of
Independence, Missouri, Caroline (Ron) Bartlett, Goddard, Thea (Lance) Pfeifer,
of Concord, North Carolina, Julia Rabuck, of Manhattan; brothers-in-law: Elvin
Edgett, of WaKeeney, Wade (Chris) Lindenman, of Edmond, Oklahoma, Ken
Schamberger, of Blue Springs, Missouri;&nbsp;
niece Stacie Edgett-Minson, of WaKeeney, great nephews:&nbsp; Carter (Bailey) Minson, of Mechanicsburg,
Pennsylvania and Cooper Minson, WaKeeney, and many nieces, nephews, great
nieces and great nephews.Deborah was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Geraldine
Corns; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Elmer and Elva Lindenman; sister,
Pamela Edgett; brother, David Corns; aunt, Marcia Cochran; sister-in-law,
Doreen Schamberger; brother-in-law, Roger Rabuck; grandparents, aunts and
uncles.Visitation will be Tuesday,
December 30, 2025 from 5 to 7p.m. at Stinemetz Funeral Home, Hill City, Kansas.Funeral Services Wednesday,&nbsp; December 31, 2025 at 11:00
a.m. at the Hill City United Methodist Church, Hill City, Kansas.

Deborah Anne Lindenman

Dr. Fred Leslie
Moss DVM, age 77, of Hoxie, Kansas, passed away peacefully on December 24,
2025, with his loving family by his side.

Fred was born
on December 19, 1948, in Sheridan County, to Robert and Mildred (Conard) Moss.
He was raised in Hoxie, where he met the love of his life, Kristine (Baalman).
They were married July 11th, 1969, in Hoxie and shared 56 years of
marriage, building a life rooted in faith, family, and community.

Fred was a
proud Kansas State University Alumnus, earning his Doctorate in Veterinary
Medicine there. His career led him to serve as a Captain in the United States
Air Force, a role that took him and his family to Altus, Oklahoma. Upon
honorable discharge from the Air Force, he practiced Veterinary Medicine in
Steele, North Dakota and Hoxie, Kansas alongside his true passion in farming. 

Throughout his
life, Fred had many accomplishments. He was a skilled basketball player, an
avid outdoorsman, a devoted farmer, and a trusted friend to many. Of all his
roles, his greatest pride was being a “girl dad” to his three daughters—Lesley,
Robin, and Adriane—whom he loved fiercely. Fred often referred to himself as
proud High Plains person and took his role seriously as a steward of the land. 

Fred was
preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mildred Moss and his brother, Kirt
Moss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766922979812.png" alt="moss.png" />
 <figcaption>moss.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Fred Leslie
Moss DVM, age 77, of Hoxie, Kansas, passed away peacefully on December 24,
2025, with his loving family by his side.Fred was born
on December 19, 1948, in Sheridan County, to Robert and Mildred (Conard) Moss.
He was raised in Hoxie, where he met the love of his life, Kristine (Baalman).
They were married July 11th, 1969, in Hoxie and shared 56 years of
marriage, building a life rooted in faith, family, and community.Fred was a
proud Kansas State University Alumnus, earning his Doctorate in Veterinary
Medicine there. His career led him to serve as a Captain in the United States
Air Force, a role that took him and his family to Altus, Oklahoma. Upon
honorable discharge from the Air Force, he practiced Veterinary Medicine in
Steele, North Dakota and Hoxie, Kansas alongside his true passion in farming. Throughout his
life, Fred had many accomplishments. He was a skilled basketball player, an
avid outdoorsman, a devoted farmer, and a trusted friend to many. Of all his
roles, his greatest pride was being a “girl dad” to his three daughters—Lesley,
Robin, and Adriane—whom he loved fiercely. Fred often referred to himself as
proud High Plains person and took his role seriously as a steward of the land. Fred was
preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mildred Moss and his brother, Kirt
Moss.He is survived
by his beloved wife, Kristine Moss; his three daughters, Lesley, husband Jeff
Walden; Robin, husband Steve Walden; and Adriane, husband Ryan Falco—and his
six cherished grandchildren—Olivia, Madeline, Maggie, Henry, Jack, and Gunnar;
brothers Thomas (Dolores) Moss and Max (Penny) Moss and a host of nieces and
nephews. Visitation will
be held Monday December 29th 2:00 p.m. at Mickey Leopold Funeral
Home with family receiving guests from 5:00-6:30 p.m.&nbsp; Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday,
December 30 at the Hoxie Christian Church at 10:30 a.m.&nbsp; Burial will be at the Hoxie City Cemetery
immediately following the funeral service. &nbsp;Fred was a generous man who preferred to give
quietly and without recognition. In that same spirit, the family will honor his
legacy by establishing a scholarship in his memory to support a Hoxie High
School Graduate. Memorial contributions may be made out to The Sheridan County
Community Foundation for the creation of The Fred L. Moss Memorial Scholarship.
Memorials may be sent to Sheridan County Community Foundation, PO Box 445,
Hoxie, KS 67740 or online at <a href="https://tinyurl.com/sdcofund">https://tinyurl.com/sdcofund</a> or Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO Box
987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740. &nbsp;Please
indicate the memorial is for the Fred L. Moss Memorial Scholarship.

Obituaries