JoAnn Fleharty’s funeral has been postponed. A future date for the service has yet to be determined.

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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 a later date, 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 Fleharty’s funeral has been postponed. A future date for the service has yet to be determined.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.&nbsp;&nbsp;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 a later date, 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

Lucille D. (Mansholt) Blide, age 95 passed away on Jan. 20,
2026 at Kenwood Plaza, St. John, KS.&nbsp; She
was born on Nov. 19, 1930 at Downs, KS., the daughter of Henry John and Johanna
Helena (Arkebauer)Mansholt.&nbsp; 

Moving to
St. John in 1960, she had been a secretary and spent most of her time driving a
school bus for the children of USD-350 St. John-Hudson schools. She was a
member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Great Bend, KS. &nbsp;

On Apr. 10, 1951 she married Keith Blide at
Downs, KS., he passed away in 2007.&nbsp;


Lucille is survived by a daughter, Linda D. Fisher, St. John, KS; two
sons, Terry L. (Lisa) Blide, Ellis, KS, Brian K. (Mary) Blide, Larned, KS; a
brother-in-law, Lowell Eberle, Derby, KS; four grandchildren, Staci (Todd)
Willems, Travis Blide, Sara (Chris) Teeter, Grant Fisher; four great
grandchildren, Hunter Teeter, Kraytyn Blide, Brooklynn Teeter and Tanner
Willems; several nieces and nephews. &nbsp;

She
was preceded in death by both parents; a grandson, Jeremy Fisher; a son-in-law,
Gregory Fisher; brothers, Leonard and Kenneth Mansholt; sisters, Marie Hadley,
Norma Christianson and Berniece Eberle; and a special friend, Gene
Rothenberger. 

Visitation will be on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026 from 1-5PM, with
family present from 1-3PM. Funeral service will be at 11:00 AM, Monday, Jan.
26, 2026 at Minnis Chapel, St. John, with Pastor Wade Russell presiding. 

Burial
will follow in the Fairview Park Cemetery, St. John, KS. Memorial checks may be
made out to USD-350 Education Foundation for Track Maintenance or to the Our
Savior Lutheran Church in care of Minnis Chapel, P.O. Box 34, St. John, KS&nbsp; 67576.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769097350191.jpeg" alt="Lucille D. (Mansholt) Blide" />
 <figcaption>Lucille D. (Mansholt) Blide</figcaption>
 </figure>Lucille D. (Mansholt) Blide, age 95 passed away on Jan. 20,
2026 at Kenwood Plaza, St. John, KS.&nbsp; She
was born on Nov. 19, 1930 at Downs, KS., the daughter of Henry John and Johanna
Helena (Arkebauer)Mansholt.&nbsp; Moving to
St. John in 1960, she had been a secretary and spent most of her time driving a
school bus for the children of USD-350 St. John-Hudson schools. She was a
member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Great Bend, KS. &nbsp;On Apr. 10, 1951 she married Keith Blide at
Downs, KS., he passed away in 2007.&nbsp;
Lucille is survived by a daughter, Linda D. Fisher, St. John, KS; two
sons, Terry L. (Lisa) Blide, Ellis, KS, Brian K. (Mary) Blide, Larned, KS; a
brother-in-law, Lowell Eberle, Derby, KS; four grandchildren, Staci (Todd)
Willems, Travis Blide, Sara (Chris) Teeter, Grant Fisher; four great
grandchildren, Hunter Teeter, Kraytyn Blide, Brooklynn Teeter and Tanner
Willems; several nieces and nephews. &nbsp;She
was preceded in death by both parents; a grandson, Jeremy Fisher; a son-in-law,
Gregory Fisher; brothers, Leonard and Kenneth Mansholt; sisters, Marie Hadley,
Norma Christianson and Berniece Eberle; and a special friend, Gene
Rothenberger. Visitation will be on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026 from 1-5PM, with
family present from 1-3PM. Funeral service will be at 11:00 AM, Monday, Jan.
26, 2026 at Minnis Chapel, St. John, with Pastor Wade Russell presiding. Burial
will follow in the Fairview Park Cemetery, St. John, KS. Memorial checks may be
made out to USD-350 Education Foundation for Track Maintenance or to the Our
Savior Lutheran Church in care of Minnis Chapel, P.O. Box 34, St. John, KS&nbsp; 67576.

Lucille D. (Mansholt) Blide

Virginia V. Johnson, 99, Hays,
died Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Via Christi Village.

A Celebration of life will be at
2:00 pm on Sunday, January 25, 2026 at First United Methodist Church in Hays
with Pastor Troy Miller and Rev. Dr. Susan Murithi officiating.
&nbsp;Visitation will be from 1:00 pm until service time on Sunday at the
church. &nbsp;Burial&nbsp;will be at 2:00 pm on Monday, January 26, 2026 in
Oberlin Cemetery in Oberlin. &nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested
to FHSU Choirs. &nbsp;Services are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral
Home and condolences and memories of Virginia may be shared with her family at
www.haysmemorial.com

A complete obituary will be
published by Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769090177461.jpeg" alt="Virginia V. Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Virginia V. Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>Virginia V. Johnson, 99, Hays,
died Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Via Christi Village.A Celebration of life will be at
2:00 pm on Sunday, January 25, 2026 at First United Methodist Church in Hays
with Pastor Troy Miller and Rev. Dr. Susan Murithi officiating.
&nbsp;Visitation will be from 1:00 pm until service time on Sunday at the
church. &nbsp;Burial&nbsp;will be at 2:00 pm on Monday, January 26, 2026 in
Oberlin Cemetery in Oberlin. &nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested
to FHSU Choirs. &nbsp;Services are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral
Home and condolences and memories of Virginia may be shared with her family at
www.haysmemorial.comA complete obituary will be
published by Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Virginia V. Johnson

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

John Louis Sanders, Sr., age 69 of Hays died August 1, 2025, at
HaysMed - Hays. He was born on December 26, 1955, in Hays, to Elmer Louis
Sanders and Freda Marie (Leikam). He married Susan (Cook) December 27, 2001, in
Hays.

John attended Hays High (Class of 1973) and left his junior year
to enlist in the US Navy. He was a cook for the US Navy from 1972 to 1976. His
life after the military included times as a cable line installer, owning Sand
Construction Company in Denver, then moving to Hays to cook at the family
business, Ted’s Steakhouse. He then worked as a supervisor for Paul
Wertenberger Construction from 1990 to 2017.

He is survived by his wife, Susan; stepdaughters, Christina Raz,
Arvada, CO, Angeline Butler, Manhattan KS; brothers Jeff Sanders, Hays, Joseph
Sanders, Georgia; sisters Judy Laurie, Russell, KS, Janet Pfeifer, Pottsboro,
TX; and one step grandson, Christian Butler, Manhattan, KS.

John was preceded in death by his parents, and his older brother,
Jim.

Memorial Services will be Monday, January 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM at
Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays,
Kansas 67601. Inurnment with Military Honors will follow the services in the
St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery - Hays.

Memorials are suggested to: Hospice at HaysMed and/or the Robert
J. Dole VA Hospital in care of the VA Heartland Network via:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/50728406/">https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/50728406/</a>&nbsp;

Cremation under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory. Memories and words of comfort may be shared with John's family on
his tribute page via:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769027269847.jpeg" alt="John Louis Sanders, Sr." />
 <figcaption>John Louis Sanders, Sr.</figcaption>
 </figure>John Louis Sanders, Sr., age 69 of Hays died August 1, 2025, at
HaysMed - Hays. He was born on December 26, 1955, in Hays, to Elmer Louis
Sanders and Freda Marie (Leikam). He married Susan (Cook) December 27, 2001, in
Hays.John attended Hays High (Class of 1973) and left his junior year
to enlist in the US Navy. He was a cook for the US Navy from 1972 to 1976. His
life after the military included times as a cable line installer, owning Sand
Construction Company in Denver, then moving to Hays to cook at the family
business, Ted’s Steakhouse. He then worked as a supervisor for Paul
Wertenberger Construction from 1990 to 2017.He is survived by his wife, Susan; stepdaughters, Christina Raz,
Arvada, CO, Angeline Butler, Manhattan KS; brothers Jeff Sanders, Hays, Joseph
Sanders, Georgia; sisters Judy Laurie, Russell, KS, Janet Pfeifer, Pottsboro,
TX; and one step grandson, Christian Butler, Manhattan, KS.John was preceded in death by his parents, and his older brother,
Jim.Memorial Services will be Monday, January 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM at
Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays,
Kansas 67601. Inurnment with Military Honors will follow the services in the
St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery - Hays.Memorials are suggested to: Hospice at HaysMed and/or the Robert
J. Dole VA Hospital in care of the VA Heartland Network via:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/50728406/">https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/50728406/</a>&nbsp;Cremation under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory. Memories and words of comfort may be shared with John's family on
his tribute page via:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;

John Louis Sanders, Sr.

Rodney
James Augustine, age 57, of Ellis, Kansas passed away Saturday, January 10,
2026, at Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado. Rodney was born April
6, 1968, in LaCrosse, Kansas to Francis and Edna (Depperschmidt) Augustine. He
married Kala Leiker on May 9, 1992. She preceded him in death on May 18, 1994.
He then married Rebecca Scheck and later divorced.



Rodney attended school in Ellis and worked as a pumper in the oilfields for
over twenty years. He loved fishing as often as he could and had a fondness for
all animals and especially his fur baby, Alaska.&nbsp; Rodney also treasured
his time with his family and close friends.



He is survived by his mother, Edna Augustine of LaCrosse; a daughter, Chandra
Augustine (Taylor Hammond) of Ellis; sisters, Brenda Urban (Steve) of Hays,
Wanda Augustine of Hays and Loretta Akins (Orlin) of Oregon.



He was preceded in death by his father, Francis.



A Celebration gathering will be Saturday, January 31, 2026 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
at Keithley Funeral Homes-Ellis Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS 67637.&nbsp; Lunch
will follow at the Ellis Knights of Columbus Hall.


Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains.

Please share words of comfort on Rodney's tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768856651167.jpeg" alt="Rodney James Augustine" />
 <figcaption>Rodney James Augustine</figcaption>
 </figure>Rodney
James Augustine, age 57, of Ellis, Kansas passed away Saturday, January 10,
2026, at Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado. Rodney was born April
6, 1968, in LaCrosse, Kansas to Francis and Edna (Depperschmidt) Augustine. He
married Kala Leiker on May 9, 1992. She preceded him in death on May 18, 1994.
He then married Rebecca Scheck and later divorced.

Rodney attended school in Ellis and worked as a pumper in the oilfields for
over twenty years. He loved fishing as often as he could and had a fondness for
all animals and especially his fur baby, Alaska.&nbsp; Rodney also treasured
his time with his family and close friends.

He is survived by his mother, Edna Augustine of LaCrosse; a daughter, Chandra
Augustine (Taylor Hammond) of Ellis; sisters, Brenda Urban (Steve) of Hays,
Wanda Augustine of Hays and Loretta Akins (Orlin) of Oregon.

He was preceded in death by his father, Francis.

A Celebration gathering will be Saturday, January 31, 2026 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
at Keithley Funeral Homes-Ellis Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS 67637.&nbsp; Lunch
will follow at the Ellis Knights of Columbus Hall.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains.

Please share words of comfort on Rodney's tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Rodney James Augustine

Megan Nicole (Lybarger) Borger,
32, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Monday morning, January 19, 2026, at the
Russell Regional Hospital in Russell.

Megan was born November 5, 1993
in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; She was one of
two daughters born to Gerald Lee and Stacy R. (Riedesel) Lybarger.&nbsp; She grew up in Blue Springs, Missouri and
graduated from Blue Springs South in the Class of 2012.&nbsp; She then attended two years at the Rockhurst
College before graduating from Brown Mackie – Overland Park with an LPN Degree.

Megan met, fell in love, and was
united in marriage to Brady Borger on May 5, 2018.&nbsp; This union was blessed with a son,
Jameson.&nbsp; They made their home in
Russell.

Megan was a Nurse, and proud of
it.&nbsp; She worked for First Care Clinic in
Hays, Kansas and loved taking care of her patients.&nbsp; When visiting her parents she would attend
Crossroads Church in Grain Valley, Missouri.&nbsp;
She was involved with the Mason’s Mourning Light foundation, serving as
Vice President.&nbsp; She loved her son and
being a Mom above all things. She enjoyed everything Disney; building Legos;
reading; spending time with family and friends and the weekends at the lake.

Megan’s surviving family includes
her husband, Brady; son, Jameson Max of the home; her parents, Jerry and Stacy
Lybarger; sister, Dr. Paige White (Glen); her paternal grandmother, Clara
Lybarger; her maternal grandfather, Vincent Riedesel; her mother-in-law, Chelli
Shauers; father-in-law, Craig Borger and wife Chandis; her siblings-in-law,
Eric, Lisa, and Shawna; and numerous Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, nieces and
nephews.

Megan was preceded in death by
her grandmother, Joyce Riedesel and her two babies who she got to meet when she
arrived in Heaven.

A Memorial Service will be held
at 2:00 PM, Monday, January 26, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in
Russell.&nbsp; The family will be present to
greet friends from noon to 2:00 PM, Monday, at the mortuary.&nbsp; A Memorial has been established as the Megan
Borger Memorial Fund in lieu of flowers.&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/2026/1/1769010914353.jpeg" alt="Megan Nicole (Lybarger) Borger" />
 <figcaption>Megan Nicole (Lybarger) Borger</figcaption>
 </figure>Megan Nicole (Lybarger) Borger,
32, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Monday morning, January 19, 2026, at the
Russell Regional Hospital in Russell.Megan was born November 5, 1993
in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; She was one of
two daughters born to Gerald Lee and Stacy R. (Riedesel) Lybarger.&nbsp; She grew up in Blue Springs, Missouri and
graduated from Blue Springs South in the Class of 2012.&nbsp; She then attended two years at the Rockhurst
College before graduating from Brown Mackie – Overland Park with an LPN Degree.Megan met, fell in love, and was
united in marriage to Brady Borger on May 5, 2018.&nbsp; This union was blessed with a son,
Jameson.&nbsp; They made their home in
Russell.Megan was a Nurse, and proud of
it.&nbsp; She worked for First Care Clinic in
Hays, Kansas and loved taking care of her patients.&nbsp; When visiting her parents she would attend
Crossroads Church in Grain Valley, Missouri.&nbsp;
She was involved with the Mason’s Mourning Light foundation, serving as
Vice President.&nbsp; She loved her son and
being a Mom above all things. She enjoyed everything Disney; building Legos;
reading; spending time with family and friends and the weekends at the lake.Megan’s surviving family includes
her husband, Brady; son, Jameson Max of the home; her parents, Jerry and Stacy
Lybarger; sister, Dr. Paige White (Glen); her paternal grandmother, Clara
Lybarger; her maternal grandfather, Vincent Riedesel; her mother-in-law, Chelli
Shauers; father-in-law, Craig Borger and wife Chandis; her siblings-in-law,
Eric, Lisa, and Shawna; and numerous Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, nieces and
nephews.Megan was preceded in death by
her grandmother, Joyce Riedesel and her two babies who she got to meet when she
arrived in Heaven.A Memorial Service will be held
at 2:00 PM, Monday, January 26, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in
Russell.&nbsp; The family will be present to
greet friends from noon to 2:00 PM, Monday, at the mortuary.&nbsp; A Memorial has been established as the Megan
Borger Memorial Fund in lieu of flowers.&nbsp;
Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler
Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Megan Nicole (Lybarger) Borger

Darlene
Kay (Desair) Marcotte, of Plainville, KS, passed away on January 19, 2026, at
Solomon Valley Manor in Stockton, Kansas, at the age of 78. 

Darlene
was born on September 21, 1947, to Adelore and Fern (Bush) Desair on the family
farm in Rural Graham County, Kansas. She grew up in Palco, Kansas and graduated
from Palco High School in 1965. She completed one year of college in Omaha and
spent much of her life working as a waitress and homemaker. She also ran the DK
Diner in Plainville.

On
April 19, 1975, she married James Leo Marcotte at St. Ann Catholic Church in
Zurich, Kansas. They were blessed with two children, Sean and Jamie.

Darlene
was an avid bowler and took great pride in competing at both state and national
levels. She especially enjoyed spending time at 183 Lanes in Stockton and
participating in local bowling leagues in Plainville and Stockton. She also enjoyed
art, particularly drawing, as well as collecting jewelry and baking. As a
baker, she was especially well known for her pies and cinnamon rolls, talents
she shared generously with family and friends.

Darlene
found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including drinking Coca-Cola,
watching NCIS, and playing bingo. A woman of strong faith, she was a
devoted member of St. Ann Catholic Church and its Sodality in Zurich, Kansas.
She was also an active member of the Solomon Valley Antique and Machinery
Association.

Darlene
will be remembered for her creativity, competitive spirit, generous heart, and
the warmth she shared with family, friends, and her community.

Darlene
is survived by her children: Sean (Kim) Marcotte of Damar, KS and Jamie
Marcotte of Kansas City, KS; siblings, Jeanette Roy of Stockton, Geraldine Roy
of Aurora, CO, Claude Desair of Palco, Connie Fisher of Bland, MO, and Ronnie
Desair of WaKeeney, KS; three grandchildren: Kedra (Andrew) Dopita, Kiley
(Eric) Pfeifer, and Kirsten (Ethan Hamilton) Marcotte; four
great-grandchildren: Karly, Kason and Kaley Dopita, and Kohen Pfeifer; and grand-dogs,
Tank and Toby. 

She is
preceded in death by her parents; husband, James; sister-in-law, DeeAnn Desair;
brothers-in-law, Joe Roy, Allan Roy, and Gary Fisher; and her beloved dog,
Sadie.

A Mass
of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10AM at the
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. Burial will follow at the St. Ann
Catholic Cemetery in Zurich. Visitation will be on Thursday, 5-7PM, with the
family receiving friends 6:30 until the Vigil and Rosary Service at 7PM, all at
the funeral home in Plainville.&nbsp; 

Memorials
are suggested to High Plains Humane Society and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease
Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67663.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768941927238.jpeg" alt="Darlene Kay (Desair) Marcotte" />
 <figcaption>Darlene Kay (Desair) Marcotte</figcaption>
 </figure>Darlene
Kay (Desair) Marcotte, of Plainville, KS, passed away on January 19, 2026, at
Solomon Valley Manor in Stockton, Kansas, at the age of 78. Darlene
was born on September 21, 1947, to Adelore and Fern (Bush) Desair on the family
farm in Rural Graham County, Kansas. She grew up in Palco, Kansas and graduated
from Palco High School in 1965. She completed one year of college in Omaha and
spent much of her life working as a waitress and homemaker. She also ran the DK
Diner in Plainville.On
April 19, 1975, she married James Leo Marcotte at St. Ann Catholic Church in
Zurich, Kansas. They were blessed with two children, Sean and Jamie.Darlene
was an avid bowler and took great pride in competing at both state and national
levels. She especially enjoyed spending time at 183 Lanes in Stockton and
participating in local bowling leagues in Plainville and Stockton. She also enjoyed
art, particularly drawing, as well as collecting jewelry and baking. As a
baker, she was especially well known for her pies and cinnamon rolls, talents
she shared generously with family and friends.Darlene
found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including drinking Coca-Cola,
watching NCIS, and playing bingo. A woman of strong faith, she was a
devoted member of St. Ann Catholic Church and its Sodality in Zurich, Kansas.
She was also an active member of the Solomon Valley Antique and Machinery
Association.Darlene
will be remembered for her creativity, competitive spirit, generous heart, and
the warmth she shared with family, friends, and her community.Darlene
is survived by her children: Sean (Kim) Marcotte of Damar, KS and Jamie
Marcotte of Kansas City, KS; siblings, Jeanette Roy of Stockton, Geraldine Roy
of Aurora, CO, Claude Desair of Palco, Connie Fisher of Bland, MO, and Ronnie
Desair of WaKeeney, KS; three grandchildren: Kedra (Andrew) Dopita, Kiley
(Eric) Pfeifer, and Kirsten (Ethan Hamilton) Marcotte; four
great-grandchildren: Karly, Kason and Kaley Dopita, and Kohen Pfeifer; and grand-dogs,
Tank and Toby. She is
preceded in death by her parents; husband, James; sister-in-law, DeeAnn Desair;
brothers-in-law, Joe Roy, Allan Roy, and Gary Fisher; and her beloved dog,
Sadie.A Mass
of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10AM at the
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. Burial will follow at the St. Ann
Catholic Cemetery in Zurich. Visitation will be on Thursday, 5-7PM, with the
family receiving friends 6:30 until the Vigil and Rosary Service at 7PM, all at
the funeral home in Plainville.&nbsp; Memorials
are suggested to High Plains Humane Society and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease
Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67663.Online
condolences may be left for the family at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

Darlene Kay (Desair) Marcotte

Hedwig (Hedy) Niedens, 93, a long-time resident of Trego
County, passed away in Salina, Kansas, on January 19, 2026. Services will be
announced at a later date. Ryan Mortuary, Salina, Kansas, is handling
arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725638659520.jpg" alt="Hedwig (Hedy) Niedens" />
 <figcaption>Hedwig (Hedy) Niedens</figcaption>
 </figure>Hedwig (Hedy) Niedens, 93, a long-time resident of Trego
County, passed away in Salina, Kansas, on January 19, 2026. Services will be
announced at a later date. Ryan Mortuary, Salina, Kansas, is handling
arrangements.

Hedwig (Hedy) Niedens

Loretta Faye Hutchinson, 92, WaKeeney, passed
away on January 16, 2026, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital.

Born in the family home in Hooker, OK, on May 3, 1933, to Millard and Edith (George) Wells. Loretta’s grade school years were spent in
Hooker and the surrounding area towns.&nbsp;
She attended high school in Liberal, KS, and later earned her GED.&nbsp; She continued her education with coursework
at Colby Community College and Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Loretta was united in marriage for 72 years to Garland R.
Hutchinson on August 21, 1949, in Liberal.&nbsp;
Two children were born to this union: Thomas Ray Hutchinson in 1950 and
Connie Lea Hutchinson Busch in 1952.&nbsp; The
family followed Garland’s career as a Duckwall manager in southeastern Colorado
and western Kansas, finally settling in WaKeeney.&nbsp; Loretta worked at WaKeeney Redi-Mix, Trego-WaKeeney
State Bank, and First United Methodist Church, WaKeeney, and First United
Methodist Church, Ulysses.&nbsp; 

Loretta had a variety of creative and artistic interests and
hobbies.&nbsp; She enjoyed sewing, knitting,
crocheting, and painting.&nbsp; Along with
Garland, they constructed and painted wooden birdhouses, ornaments, plaques,
and knick-knacks for family and friends.&nbsp;
Jigsaw puzzles, board games, card games, reading the New York Times, and
reading and researching information on her iPad filled Loretta’s free
time.&nbsp; She was a member of the WaKeeney
United Methodist Church, the Locust Club, and the Courtney-Spalding Chapter of
the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Loretta is survived by her son, Thomas R. (Cassandra) of
Salina; daughter, Connie L. Busch of Hays; brother-in-law, Richard Hutchinson,
Parker, CO; grandsons, Bourke B. (Kari) Hutchinson of Gardner, and Roberto L.
(Adriana) Busch of Hays; four great-grandchildren; cousins, nieces, nephews,
and their families.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother
Teddy Wells, son-in-law, Allan J. Busch, Jr., and family members Lloyd and
Norma (Hutchinson) Palmer, Dean and Billie Hutchinson, and Dolores Hutchinson.

A private family graveside service will be held at Kansas
Veterans Cemetery in WaKeeney at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Scholarship Fund,
WaKeeney First United Methodist Church.&nbsp;
Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th Street,
WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Loretta Faye Hutchinson, 92, WaKeeney, passed
away on January 16, 2026, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital.Born in the family home in Hooker, OK, on May 3, 1933, to Millard and Edith (George) Wells. Loretta’s grade school years were spent in
Hooker and the surrounding area towns.&nbsp;
She attended high school in Liberal, KS, and later earned her GED.&nbsp; She continued her education with coursework
at Colby Community College and Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;&nbsp; Loretta was united in marriage for 72 years to Garland R.
Hutchinson on August 21, 1949, in Liberal.&nbsp;
Two children were born to this union: Thomas Ray Hutchinson in 1950 and
Connie Lea Hutchinson Busch in 1952.&nbsp; The
family followed Garland’s career as a Duckwall manager in southeastern Colorado
and western Kansas, finally settling in WaKeeney.&nbsp; Loretta worked at WaKeeney Redi-Mix, Trego-WaKeeney
State Bank, and First United Methodist Church, WaKeeney, and First United
Methodist Church, Ulysses.&nbsp; Loretta had a variety of creative and artistic interests and
hobbies.&nbsp; She enjoyed sewing, knitting,
crocheting, and painting.&nbsp; Along with
Garland, they constructed and painted wooden birdhouses, ornaments, plaques,
and knick-knacks for family and friends.&nbsp;
Jigsaw puzzles, board games, card games, reading the New York Times, and
reading and researching information on her iPad filled Loretta’s free
time.&nbsp; She was a member of the WaKeeney
United Methodist Church, the Locust Club, and the Courtney-Spalding Chapter of
the Daughters of the American Revolution.Loretta is survived by her son, Thomas R. (Cassandra) of
Salina; daughter, Connie L. Busch of Hays; brother-in-law, Richard Hutchinson,
Parker, CO; grandsons, Bourke B. (Kari) Hutchinson of Gardner, and Roberto L.
(Adriana) Busch of Hays; four great-grandchildren; cousins, nieces, nephews,
and their families.She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother
Teddy Wells, son-in-law, Allan J. Busch, Jr., and family members Lloyd and
Norma (Hutchinson) Palmer, Dean and Billie Hutchinson, and Dolores Hutchinson.A private family graveside service will be held at Kansas
Veterans Cemetery in WaKeeney at a later date.Memorial contributions may be given to the Scholarship Fund,
WaKeeney First United Methodist Church.&nbsp;
Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th Street,
WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Loretta Faye Hutchinson

Raymond 'Ray' Edward Zahn, age 90, of WaKeeney,
Kansas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Trego
County–Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was born December 5, 1935, in Bazine,
Kansas, to Otto and Pearl (Kilpatrick) Zahn.

Ray was a man defined by hard work, quiet observation, and a
deep love for his community and the simple joys of life.

He grew up south of Ogallah, Kansas, beneath the bluffs
where his parents farmed the land now known as Cove 4 at Cedar Bluff Reservoir.
Those early years shaped his appreciation for the outdoors and instilled in him
a strong work ethic that would follow him throughout his life. In 1947, when
the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation began plans for the construction of Cedar Bluff
Dam, the family was forced to leave the farm and move into town—a transition
that marked a new chapter in Ray’s life.

Ray graduated from Trego High School with the Class of 1953
and soon began working in the oil fields, a line of work he would return to
time and again throughout his life. He was never afraid of hard labor or
heights and could often be found on oil derricks, doing whatever needed to be
done. From 1957 to 1962, he worked alongside his father, helping operate the
family business, Zahn Plumbing and Heating. Unknowingly at the time, Ray would
go on to use the skills he learned from his father to continue providing
dependable service and reliability to the WaKeeney community.

From 1965 to 1969, Ray returned to oil field work before
beginning what would become a long and dedicated career with the City of
WaKeeney. From 1969 until 2000, he served as City Superintendent, taking great
pride in maintaining the town he called home. Even after “retiring” at the age
of 65, Ray did not slow down. He returned once more to the oil fields, working
until the age of 78. When he finally stepped away from that work, he still
found ways to stay useful, delivering clean uniforms to oil workers until he
was 80 years old.

His commitment to service extended beyond his employment.
Ray was an active member of the WaKeeney City Fire Department for approximately
20 years, always willing to step up and help when his community needed him.

Those who knew Ray often described him as 'the observer'. Between himself and his brother, Leonard, Ray was the quiet one. He listened
more than he spoke, but when he did offer a comment or a joke, it was often
unexpected and delivered with a smile that made it all the more memorable.

For more than 40 years, Ray continued his father’s plumbing
legacy as an after-hours plumber, often answering calls to open sewers or
assist with various projects—well into his later years and up to the age of 80.
He was also an avid coin collector, a hobby he began in high school. Ray loved
studying his coin digest magazines, absorbing all the information he could, and
recalling remarkable details about each piece. He was always eager to share the
story behind a particular coin with anyone willing to listen.

Known jokingly as a 'professional recycler', Ray found
enjoyment in salvaging and scrapping metal—mostly aluminum—and took quiet
satisfaction in giving materials a second life.

In his true retirement years, Ray finally found more time to
enjoy the outdoors he had loved since childhood. Though he had a notable
dislike for pinecones, he otherwise appreciated nature’s beauty. He could often
be found sitting on his porch, watching rabbits in the yard, squirrels racing
across the power lines—what he affectionately called the 'squirrel freeway'—and
feeding the birds. Ray LOVED feeding the birds and he graciously left behind
barrels and barrels of old birdseed in the shed, a lasting reminder of one of
his favorite pastimes.

Ray is survived by his sons, Kendal (Dwana) of Ellis, Nathan
(Tina) of Wichita, and Mark (Carol) of Quinter; his daughter, Marla Woods of
WaKeeney; twelve grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; one
great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in
death by his wife, Clara Lucille 'Lucy'; his parents; two sons, Timothy and
Alan; grandson Max; and fourteen siblings.

A visitation will be held Monday, January 19, 2026, from
5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th Street, WaKeeney,
Kansas. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.
at WaKeeney Church of God, 1300 Easter Avenue, WaKeeney, Kansas, with Pastor
Jerod Brown officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336
N. 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit <a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768845021314.jpeg" alt="Raymond 'Ray' Edward Zahn" />
 <figcaption>Raymond 'Ray' Edward Zahn</figcaption>
 </figure>Raymond 'Ray' Edward Zahn, age 90, of WaKeeney,
Kansas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Trego
County–Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was born December 5, 1935, in Bazine,
Kansas, to Otto and Pearl (Kilpatrick) Zahn.Ray was a man defined by hard work, quiet observation, and a
deep love for his community and the simple joys of life.He grew up south of Ogallah, Kansas, beneath the bluffs
where his parents farmed the land now known as Cove 4 at Cedar Bluff Reservoir.
Those early years shaped his appreciation for the outdoors and instilled in him
a strong work ethic that would follow him throughout his life. In 1947, when
the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation began plans for the construction of Cedar Bluff
Dam, the family was forced to leave the farm and move into town—a transition
that marked a new chapter in Ray’s life.Ray graduated from Trego High School with the Class of 1953
and soon began working in the oil fields, a line of work he would return to
time and again throughout his life. He was never afraid of hard labor or
heights and could often be found on oil derricks, doing whatever needed to be
done. From 1957 to 1962, he worked alongside his father, helping operate the
family business, Zahn Plumbing and Heating. Unknowingly at the time, Ray would
go on to use the skills he learned from his father to continue providing
dependable service and reliability to the WaKeeney community.From 1965 to 1969, Ray returned to oil field work before
beginning what would become a long and dedicated career with the City of
WaKeeney. From 1969 until 2000, he served as City Superintendent, taking great
pride in maintaining the town he called home. Even after “retiring” at the age
of 65, Ray did not slow down. He returned once more to the oil fields, working
until the age of 78. When he finally stepped away from that work, he still
found ways to stay useful, delivering clean uniforms to oil workers until he
was 80 years old.His commitment to service extended beyond his employment.
Ray was an active member of the WaKeeney City Fire Department for approximately
20 years, always willing to step up and help when his community needed him.Those who knew Ray often described him as 'the observer'. Between himself and his brother, Leonard, Ray was the quiet one. He listened
more than he spoke, but when he did offer a comment or a joke, it was often
unexpected and delivered with a smile that made it all the more memorable.For more than 40 years, Ray continued his father’s plumbing
legacy as an after-hours plumber, often answering calls to open sewers or
assist with various projects—well into his later years and up to the age of 80.
He was also an avid coin collector, a hobby he began in high school. Ray loved
studying his coin digest magazines, absorbing all the information he could, and
recalling remarkable details about each piece. He was always eager to share the
story behind a particular coin with anyone willing to listen.Known jokingly as a 'professional recycler', Ray found
enjoyment in salvaging and scrapping metal—mostly aluminum—and took quiet
satisfaction in giving materials a second life.In his true retirement years, Ray finally found more time to
enjoy the outdoors he had loved since childhood. Though he had a notable
dislike for pinecones, he otherwise appreciated nature’s beauty. He could often
be found sitting on his porch, watching rabbits in the yard, squirrels racing
across the power lines—what he affectionately called the 'squirrel freeway'—and
feeding the birds. Ray LOVED feeding the birds and he graciously left behind
barrels and barrels of old birdseed in the shed, a lasting reminder of one of
his favorite pastimes.Ray is survived by his sons, Kendal (Dwana) of Ellis, Nathan
(Tina) of Wichita, and Mark (Carol) of Quinter; his daughter, Marla Woods of
WaKeeney; twelve grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; one
great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in
death by his wife, Clara Lucille 'Lucy'; his parents; two sons, Timothy and
Alan; grandson Max; and fourteen siblings.A visitation will be held Monday, January 19, 2026, from
5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th Street, WaKeeney,
Kansas. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.
at WaKeeney Church of God, 1300 Easter Avenue, WaKeeney, Kansas, with Pastor
Jerod Brown officiating.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336
N. 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.To share memories or leave condolences, please visit <a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

Raymond 'Ray' Edward Zahn

Josie Summers Worcester, age 91, of Hill City, Kansas, went
peacefully to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 15, 2026. 

Josie was born on
May 8, 1934, to Silas Dayton and Germie Taylor Summers and was raised in
Walton, West Virginia, where she grew up as one of five children. Those early
years shaped her strong faith, her deep sense of family, and her lifelong
commitment to serving others.

 In 1957, Josie moved to Denver, Colorado, with
her young son Darris and her Aunt Alta Gay. It was there, while attending
church, that she met Merlyn Worcester, a Kansas farm boy working as a fry cook
at the airport. Their meeting was the beginning of a beautiful love story
rooted in faith, hard work, and devotion. Josie and Merlyn were married on July
19, 1958, at the Christian Church in Hill City, Kansas, the community they
would proudly call home for the rest of their lives. Together, Josie and Merlyn
raised five children: Darris, Denise, Dennis, Derwin, and Darren.

 Family was
the center of Josie’s world, and she poured her heart into being a loving and
supportive mother. In May of 1965, Josie and Merlyn opened a Montgomery Ward
store in Hill City, which they operated for more than 20 years. Their store
became the longest privately owned Montgomery Ward in the state of Kansas and
was not only a business, but a place where friendships were built and the
community gathered. 

Josie was one of her family’s greatest and most devoted
supporters. She rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on her children and
grandchildren, faithfully attending activities and events near and far. From
cross country and track meets to tennis tournaments, basketball games, and
wrestling matches, Josie was there, proud and encouraging. Her presence in the
stands, her steady support, and her genuine interest in each child’s passions
meant more than words could ever express. 

Josie and Merlyn also shared a love
for travel and adventure, creating countless cherished memories along the way.
Family road trips began with a 1974 Chevy pickup and a homemade camper topper,
followed by a remodeled school bus that Josie herself painted blue with white
stripes and stars using nothing but a brush. Eventually, they purchased their
first motorhome and continued traveling with family and friends, always valuing
time together and new experiences.

 Josie had a servant’s heart and a deep love
for her community. She volunteered faithfully at church, helped at polling
stations during elections, and worked tirelessly at the local thrift store, The
Mission Mart. When the store faced closure, Josie and Merlyn were instrumental
in keeping it open. The Mission Mart became one of Josie’s greatest passions
and was eventually relocated to the former Montgomery Ward building beneath
their residence. Proceeds from the store supported Hill City Christian youth,
helping fund activities and provide opportunities for children to attend church
camps. Through this work, Josie quietly touched countless lives. 

Above all,
Josie loved the Lord and lived her faith daily through kindness, generosity, and
compassion. She was always ready to help anyone in need, in any way she could.
Josie cherished every role she held in life: daughter, sister, wife, mother,
aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Each title
was worn with pride and gratitude, and her love for her family knew no bounds.


Josie was preceded in death by her parents, Silas Dayton and Germie Taylor
Summers; her brother, Herbert Summers; and her sisters, Bernadine Scruggs and
Wandalee Holland, all of West Virginia. 

She is survived by her beloved husband
of 67 years, Merlyn Worcester of Hill City, Kansas; her children, Darris (Aida)
of Hill City, Kansas; Denise (Dave) Kempke of Claflin, Kansas; Dennis (Kim) of
Miramar, Florida; Derwin (Melissa) of Lucas, Kansas; and Darren (Christy) of
Olathe, Kansas; her brother, Johnnie (Sharon) Summers of Walton, West Virginia;
15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
Josie’s life was a testament to faith, love, dedication to family, and service
to others. Her legacy lives on through her family, her community, and the
countless lives she touched with her gentle spirit and giving heart.

The family will be present for the Visitation on Sunday,
January 18, 2026 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Stinemetz Funeral Home, 522 North
Pomeroy Avenue, Hill City, Kansas.&nbsp; The
Service is Monday, January 19, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. in the Hill City Christian
Church, 122 North Pomeroy Avenue, Hill City, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp; Internment will be at the Memorial Lawn
Cemetery, Hill City, Kansas.&nbsp; Memorial
donations will be for the Hill City Christian Youth Group, The Well,&nbsp; Stinemetz Funeral Home. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768680165261.jpeg" alt="Josie Summers Worcester" />
 <figcaption>Josie Summers Worcester</figcaption>
 </figure>Josie Summers Worcester, age 91, of Hill City, Kansas, went
peacefully to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Josie was born on
May 8, 1934, to Silas Dayton and Germie Taylor Summers and was raised in
Walton, West Virginia, where she grew up as one of five children. Those early
years shaped her strong faith, her deep sense of family, and her lifelong
commitment to serving others. In 1957, Josie moved to Denver, Colorado, with
her young son Darris and her Aunt Alta Gay. It was there, while attending
church, that she met Merlyn Worcester, a Kansas farm boy working as a fry cook
at the airport. Their meeting was the beginning of a beautiful love story
rooted in faith, hard work, and devotion. Josie and Merlyn were married on July
19, 1958, at the Christian Church in Hill City, Kansas, the community they
would proudly call home for the rest of their lives. Together, Josie and Merlyn
raised five children: Darris, Denise, Dennis, Derwin, and Darren. Family was
the center of Josie’s world, and she poured her heart into being a loving and
supportive mother. In May of 1965, Josie and Merlyn opened a Montgomery Ward
store in Hill City, which they operated for more than 20 years. Their store
became the longest privately owned Montgomery Ward in the state of Kansas and
was not only a business, but a place where friendships were built and the
community gathered. Josie was one of her family’s greatest and most devoted
supporters. She rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on her children and
grandchildren, faithfully attending activities and events near and far. From
cross country and track meets to tennis tournaments, basketball games, and
wrestling matches, Josie was there, proud and encouraging. Her presence in the
stands, her steady support, and her genuine interest in each child’s passions
meant more than words could ever express. Josie and Merlyn also shared a love
for travel and adventure, creating countless cherished memories along the way.
Family road trips began with a 1974 Chevy pickup and a homemade camper topper,
followed by a remodeled school bus that Josie herself painted blue with white
stripes and stars using nothing but a brush. Eventually, they purchased their
first motorhome and continued traveling with family and friends, always valuing
time together and new experiences. Josie had a servant’s heart and a deep love
for her community. She volunteered faithfully at church, helped at polling
stations during elections, and worked tirelessly at the local thrift store, The
Mission Mart. When the store faced closure, Josie and Merlyn were instrumental
in keeping it open. The Mission Mart became one of Josie’s greatest passions
and was eventually relocated to the former Montgomery Ward building beneath
their residence. Proceeds from the store supported Hill City Christian youth,
helping fund activities and provide opportunities for children to attend church
camps. Through this work, Josie quietly touched countless lives. Above all,
Josie loved the Lord and lived her faith daily through kindness, generosity, and
compassion. She was always ready to help anyone in need, in any way she could.
Josie cherished every role she held in life: daughter, sister, wife, mother,
aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Each title
was worn with pride and gratitude, and her love for her family knew no bounds.
Josie was preceded in death by her parents, Silas Dayton and Germie Taylor
Summers; her brother, Herbert Summers; and her sisters, Bernadine Scruggs and
Wandalee Holland, all of West Virginia. She is survived by her beloved husband
of 67 years, Merlyn Worcester of Hill City, Kansas; her children, Darris (Aida)
of Hill City, Kansas; Denise (Dave) Kempke of Claflin, Kansas; Dennis (Kim) of
Miramar, Florida; Derwin (Melissa) of Lucas, Kansas; and Darren (Christy) of
Olathe, Kansas; her brother, Johnnie (Sharon) Summers of Walton, West Virginia;
15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
Josie’s life was a testament to faith, love, dedication to family, and service
to others. Her legacy lives on through her family, her community, and the
countless lives she touched with her gentle spirit and giving heart.The family will be present for the Visitation on Sunday,
January 18, 2026 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Stinemetz Funeral Home, 522 North
Pomeroy Avenue, Hill City, Kansas.&nbsp; The
Service is Monday, January 19, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. in the Hill City Christian
Church, 122 North Pomeroy Avenue, Hill City, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp; Internment will be at the Memorial Lawn
Cemetery, Hill City, Kansas.&nbsp; Memorial
donations will be for the Hill City Christian Youth Group, The Well,&nbsp; Stinemetz Funeral Home.

Josie Summers Worcester

Doris M. Casey, 100, Hays, Kansas, passed away peacefully on
Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Brookdale Senior Living. 

She was born on March 15, 1925, in Plainville, Kansas to
Charles and Anna (Johnson) Marston. Doris graduated from Plainville High School
in 1943.&nbsp; She briefly joined the
workforce as a switchboard operator at the local telephone company before
enlisting in the United States military. Doris bravely and dutifully
volunteered to serve her country during World War II in the Navy’s
groundbreaking WAVES program (Women Accepted for Volunteer Services). She was
trained in medical care and support and was stationed in the Pacific Northwest.
After returning home from service, she married Donald M. Casey on November 26,
1947. Together they took up residence on the Casey family farm east of
Plainville, where she lived and worked as a farmwife for many decades. From this
union, Donald and Doris had one son, Thomas E. Casey.&nbsp; She retired from the farm and moved back to
Plainville where she volunteered at Sacred Heart Catholic School as a preschool
teacher’s aide. Years later, she transitioned to Hays to be closer to family. 

Throughout her life, Doris enjoyed every form of crafting,
including crochet, quilting, painting, drawing, and decorating cakes. She was a
devout member of Plainville’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Sacred Heart
Ladies Guild. She woke up early each day to pray rosaries for her loved ones.
Doris prioritized staying active with swimming being her favorite form of
exercise. She loved to play poker, had mastered the art of delivering a good
joke, and made the best kolaches in town.&nbsp;
She was a proud member of VFW Post #8871 and VFW Auxiliary #8871. 

Doris is survived by her daughter-in-law, Mary (Hackerott)
Casey; her grandchildren Amy (Paul) Matlack, Spencer (Michelle) Casey, Kim
(Frank) Musalek, and Robyn (Brandon) Crichton; as well as her ten beloved great
grandchildren: Laura Casey, Nate Matlack, Hailey (Garrett) Rounsley, Nick
Matlack, Abbey Musalek, Ryan Casey, Ella Musalek, Lexi Casey, Luke Musalek, and
Colin Crichton. She was preceded in death by her husband, only son, parents,
twin brother Delmar (Dorothy) Marston, brother Jack (Louise) Marston, brother
Darrell Fred Marston, stepfather Jess Morris, and many beloved in-laws and
friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Monday,
January 19, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, with Fr. Fred Gatschet
officiating.&nbsp; Burial with military honors
by the Plainville VFW Post #8871 Honor Guard will be at 2:00 pm in Sacred Heart
Cemetery in Plainville.&nbsp; Visitation will
be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Sunday and from 10:00 am until 10:45 on Monday,
all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;
A vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30 pm on Sunday at the funeral
home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to Sacred
Heart Catholic School in Plainville or to VFW Post #8871.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Doris may be
shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768599562704.jpeg" alt="Doris M. Casey" />
 <figcaption>Doris M. Casey</figcaption>
 </figure>Doris M. Casey, 100, Hays, Kansas, passed away peacefully on
Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Brookdale Senior Living. She was born on March 15, 1925, in Plainville, Kansas to
Charles and Anna (Johnson) Marston. Doris graduated from Plainville High School
in 1943.&nbsp; She briefly joined the
workforce as a switchboard operator at the local telephone company before
enlisting in the United States military. Doris bravely and dutifully
volunteered to serve her country during World War II in the Navy’s
groundbreaking WAVES program (Women Accepted for Volunteer Services). She was
trained in medical care and support and was stationed in the Pacific Northwest.
After returning home from service, she married Donald M. Casey on November 26,
1947. Together they took up residence on the Casey family farm east of
Plainville, where she lived and worked as a farmwife for many decades. From this
union, Donald and Doris had one son, Thomas E. Casey.&nbsp; She retired from the farm and moved back to
Plainville where she volunteered at Sacred Heart Catholic School as a preschool
teacher’s aide. Years later, she transitioned to Hays to be closer to family. Throughout her life, Doris enjoyed every form of crafting,
including crochet, quilting, painting, drawing, and decorating cakes. She was a
devout member of Plainville’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Sacred Heart
Ladies Guild. She woke up early each day to pray rosaries for her loved ones.
Doris prioritized staying active with swimming being her favorite form of
exercise. She loved to play poker, had mastered the art of delivering a good
joke, and made the best kolaches in town.&nbsp;
She was a proud member of VFW Post #8871 and VFW Auxiliary #8871. Doris is survived by her daughter-in-law, Mary (Hackerott)
Casey; her grandchildren Amy (Paul) Matlack, Spencer (Michelle) Casey, Kim
(Frank) Musalek, and Robyn (Brandon) Crichton; as well as her ten beloved great
grandchildren: Laura Casey, Nate Matlack, Hailey (Garrett) Rounsley, Nick
Matlack, Abbey Musalek, Ryan Casey, Ella Musalek, Lexi Casey, Luke Musalek, and
Colin Crichton. She was preceded in death by her husband, only son, parents,
twin brother Delmar (Dorothy) Marston, brother Jack (Louise) Marston, brother
Darrell Fred Marston, stepfather Jess Morris, and many beloved in-laws and
friends.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Monday,
January 19, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, with Fr. Fred Gatschet
officiating.&nbsp; Burial with military honors
by the Plainville VFW Post #8871 Honor Guard will be at 2:00 pm in Sacred Heart
Cemetery in Plainville.&nbsp; Visitation will
be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Sunday and from 10:00 am until 10:45 on Monday,
all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;
A vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30 pm on Sunday at the funeral
home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to Sacred
Heart Catholic School in Plainville or to VFW Post #8871.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Doris may be
shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Doris M. Casey

Jin Guey 'Gene' Mar 馬友振 (1935–2026), 90, died January
10, 2026, in Hays, Kansas. He was born in Canton, China on July 10, 1935 and
was raised in Gong How Village, a rural community in southern China.

Jin grew up in a poor village and later recalled the period when
communists took control of the country. At the age of 15, he immigrated to the
United States alone, entering through Seattle. He spoke no English and arrived
with few connections, learning how to survive through work, observation, and
persistence.

He began working in Chinese kitchens in entry-level roles and
learned the restaurant business from the ground up. Through steady effort, he
eventually opened his own restaurant, becoming the owner of the first Chinese
restaurant in Hays, Kansas. He remained a familiar and respected presence in
the community for decades.

Jin was proud of his Chinese heritage and enjoyed sharing it with
others. He took quiet pleasure in music (though he usually played it much
louder than anyone else preferred), photography, cars, hunting, and fishing. At
home, he often listened to Chinese opera. When he was not at home, he was
likely at the fishing hole. His freezer was always stocked with fish he caught
himself.

He was generous in ways that felt natural to him. If someone
admired something he loved, he often insisted they take it. Records, candy,
tea, fruit, and small gifts were offered freely. Giving brought him visible
joy. If he had the ability to help someone, he did, without hesitation or
expectation.

Jin had a quiet, reserved manner and an excellent sense of humor.
He was known for his steady presence, his smile, and his willingness to share
what he had. Despite challenges and hardships throughout his life, he
maintained a positive outlook and was a beloved member of the community.

He cared deeply for his children, grandchildren, and
great-grandchildren. He passed along a strong work ethic and a spirit of
generosity through example. His legacy is found in the family he raised, the
values he lived by, and the life he built through patience, resilience, and
quiet kindness.

He is survived by his children: Keena Longstaff (Al); James Mar;
Kathy Krannawitter (Jon); Kelly Mar; Colleen Schneider (Mark); and Gene Mar;
his 13 grandchildren: Charles, Ashley, Jamie, Steve (Emily), Josh (Addison),
Amy (Jaron), Krystal (Brandon), Shaun, Clinton (Alisha), Christopher (Kristin),
Nicholas (Blair), Mar-Amanda, and Shane; and his 25 great-grandchildren: Nancy,
Alex, Dakota, Zackerian, Brennan, Jordyn, Charles, Mason, McKenzie, Marcus,
William, Zaylyn, Eloise, Geddy, Benmont, Sydney, Lorelai, Ethan, Logan, Audrey,
Amelia, Callie, Rachael, Stiles, and Lily. He was preceded in death by his
daughter, Karen Mapstone.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, January 23, 2026, at
10:00 a.m. at Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel, 2509 Vine, Hays. A meal will
follow at The Venue, 2704 Vine.

A memorial has been established with the ALS Clinic in Wichita.
Contributions and condolences may be sent to Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel or
made directly in Jin’s name to Neurology Consultants of Kansas, ALS Clinic,
2135 Collective Lane, Wichita, KS.

In keeping with Jin’s Chinese heritage, the family will provide
guests with a small red envelope containing a coin and a piece of candy. The
candy sweetens the bitterness of loss, and the coin is meant to ward off bad
luck. Guests are encouraged to eat the candy and spend the coin before
returning home, symbolizing the sealing of good fortune and leaving sorrow
behind at the funeral.

Cremation under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared with
Jin'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/2026/1/1768579530922.png" alt="Jin Guey 'Gene' Mar" />
 <figcaption>Jin Guey 'Gene' Mar</figcaption>
 </figure>Jin Guey 'Gene' Mar 馬友振 (1935–2026), 90, died January
10, 2026, in Hays, Kansas. He was born in Canton, China on July 10, 1935 and
was raised in Gong How Village, a rural community in southern China.Jin grew up in a poor village and later recalled the period when
communists took control of the country. At the age of 15, he immigrated to the
United States alone, entering through Seattle. He spoke no English and arrived
with few connections, learning how to survive through work, observation, and
persistence.He began working in Chinese kitchens in entry-level roles and
learned the restaurant business from the ground up. Through steady effort, he
eventually opened his own restaurant, becoming the owner of the first Chinese
restaurant in Hays, Kansas. He remained a familiar and respected presence in
the community for decades.Jin was proud of his Chinese heritage and enjoyed sharing it with
others. He took quiet pleasure in music (though he usually played it much
louder than anyone else preferred), photography, cars, hunting, and fishing. At
home, he often listened to Chinese opera. When he was not at home, he was
likely at the fishing hole. His freezer was always stocked with fish he caught
himself.He was generous in ways that felt natural to him. If someone
admired something he loved, he often insisted they take it. Records, candy,
tea, fruit, and small gifts were offered freely. Giving brought him visible
joy. If he had the ability to help someone, he did, without hesitation or
expectation.Jin had a quiet, reserved manner and an excellent sense of humor.
He was known for his steady presence, his smile, and his willingness to share
what he had. Despite challenges and hardships throughout his life, he
maintained a positive outlook and was a beloved member of the community.He cared deeply for his children, grandchildren, and
great-grandchildren. He passed along a strong work ethic and a spirit of
generosity through example. His legacy is found in the family he raised, the
values he lived by, and the life he built through patience, resilience, and
quiet kindness.He is survived by his children: Keena Longstaff (Al); James Mar;
Kathy Krannawitter (Jon); Kelly Mar; Colleen Schneider (Mark); and Gene Mar;
his 13 grandchildren: Charles, Ashley, Jamie, Steve (Emily), Josh (Addison),
Amy (Jaron), Krystal (Brandon), Shaun, Clinton (Alisha), Christopher (Kristin),
Nicholas (Blair), Mar-Amanda, and Shane; and his 25 great-grandchildren: Nancy,
Alex, Dakota, Zackerian, Brennan, Jordyn, Charles, Mason, McKenzie, Marcus,
William, Zaylyn, Eloise, Geddy, Benmont, Sydney, Lorelai, Ethan, Logan, Audrey,
Amelia, Callie, Rachael, Stiles, and Lily. He was preceded in death by his
daughter, Karen Mapstone.A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, January 23, 2026, at
10:00 a.m. at Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel, 2509 Vine, Hays. A meal will
follow at The Venue, 2704 Vine.A memorial has been established with the ALS Clinic in Wichita.
Contributions and condolences may be sent to Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel or
made directly in Jin’s name to Neurology Consultants of Kansas, ALS Clinic,
2135 Collective Lane, Wichita, KS.In keeping with Jin’s Chinese heritage, the family will provide
guests with a small red envelope containing a coin and a piece of candy. The
candy sweetens the bitterness of loss, and the coin is meant to ward off bad
luck. Guests are encouraged to eat the candy and spend the coin before
returning home, symbolizing the sealing of good fortune and leaving sorrow
behind at the funeral.Cremation under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory.Memories and words of comfort may be shared with
Jin's family on his tribute page via:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Jin Guey 'Gene' Mar

Larry Leroy Booth, age 93, of Colby, Kansas, passed away on Sunday,
January 11, 2026, at the Citizens Medical Center in Colby. He was born June 15, 1932,
in Kansas City, Kansas, to Leroy Camille and Dorothy Helene (Hall) Booth.

Larry graduated from Wyandotte High School in Kansas City. He
joined the United&nbsp;States Marines and fought in the Korean conflict, where he was
honored with a Purple Heart and an expert marksmanship award. Following his military
service, Larry attended Ottawa University and earned a bachelor’s degree in
history and psychology.

He continued his education at Central Baptist Seminary, graduating
with a degree in Christian education. Larry also served as a chaplain in the Navy
Reserves.

Larry dedicated fifteen years to the ministry and served as the
administrator at Lantern Park Manor in Colby. He worked as an interim administrator in
several nursing homes throughout Kansas and Nebraska. Larry resumed preaching as an
interim pastor across Kansas and Nebraska, and served as the preacher at the Presbyterian
Church in Hoxie, Kansas, and the First Congregational Church in Grant, Nebraska.

Larry had a remarkable love for music. He enjoyed singing and
whistling, and his&nbsp;mother said when she was looking for Larry when he was out playing,
she would find him by stepping out on the porch and listening for his whistle.
Larry taught himself to play the guitar both left-handed and right-handed, since he was
left-handed but had only a right-handed guitar available. He loved to sing and play for
weddings, funerals, church, festivals, parks, clubs, and living rooms. He was
instrumental in starting Pickin’ on the Plains Music Festival in Colby 30 years ago. In
addition to his musical talents, Larry cherished reading, poetry, woodworking, flying, and,
above all, connecting with people. He was known for his warm heart, and he
never knew a stranger.

Larry was married to Joann Krueger and later to his current wife,
Jo (Bannister) Booth. His parents; son, Stephen Leroy Booth; sister, Jacqueline
(Bill) Shultz, brother-in-law Bill Shultz, and his nephew, David Shultz passed before him.


He is survived by his children: Larry Dale, Timothy Michael and Jon Martin (Renae)
Booth, all of Hays; stepchildren Kristi Foss of Manitou Springs, Co. and Kendall (Laura
Reif) Foss of Plainville. Larry leaves behind eleven grandchildren: Kim (Drew)
Gourlay, Brandon (Sarah) Booth, Matthew, Jacob and Elijah Booth, Andrew, Nicholas,
Zachary and Lucas Doneson, Madison (Foss) Olmstead and husband Logan , and Destiny Foss. He is also
survived by eight great-grandchildren: Josey (Noah) Yetter, Phoebe Booth, Karson
Kuhlmann, Pierce and Declan Gourlay, Louis and Otto Olmstead, Clara Bellew, and
numerous nieces and nephews.

A service to honor his life will be held on January 17, 2026, at
1:00 PM at the Colby United Methodist Church. Burial will be at Beulah Cemetery
following the service, and a social gathering will be held afterward at the church, featuring
snacks and music. Memorials are suggested to Pickin’ on the Plains Music Festival and
to Sons of the American Legion and may be mailed to Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391,
Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768415622022.jpeg" alt="larry leroy booth.jpg" />
 <figcaption>larry leroy booth.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Larry Leroy Booth, age 93, of Colby, Kansas, passed away on Sunday,
January 11, 2026, at the Citizens Medical Center in Colby. He was born June 15, 1932,
in Kansas City, Kansas, to Leroy Camille and Dorothy Helene (Hall) Booth.Larry graduated from Wyandotte High School in Kansas City. He
joined the United&nbsp;States Marines and fought in the Korean conflict, where he was
honored with a Purple Heart and an expert marksmanship award. Following his military
service, Larry attended Ottawa University and earned a bachelor’s degree in
history and psychology.He continued his education at Central Baptist Seminary, graduating
with a degree in Christian education. Larry also served as a chaplain in the Navy
Reserves.Larry dedicated fifteen years to the ministry and served as the
administrator at Lantern Park Manor in Colby. He worked as an interim administrator in
several nursing homes throughout Kansas and Nebraska. Larry resumed preaching as an
interim pastor across Kansas and Nebraska, and served as the preacher at the Presbyterian
Church in Hoxie, Kansas, and the First Congregational Church in Grant, Nebraska.Larry had a remarkable love for music. He enjoyed singing and
whistling, and his&nbsp;mother said when she was looking for Larry when he was out playing,
she would find him by stepping out on the porch and listening for his whistle.
Larry taught himself to play the guitar both left-handed and right-handed, since he was
left-handed but had only a right-handed guitar available. He loved to sing and play for
weddings, funerals, church, festivals, parks, clubs, and living rooms. He was
instrumental in starting Pickin’ on the Plains Music Festival in Colby 30 years ago. In
addition to his musical talents, Larry cherished reading, poetry, woodworking, flying, and,
above all, connecting with people. He was known for his warm heart, and he
never knew a stranger.Larry was married to Joann Krueger and later to his current wife,
Jo (Bannister) Booth. His parents; son, Stephen Leroy Booth; sister, Jacqueline
(Bill) Shultz, brother-in-law Bill Shultz, and his nephew, David Shultz passed before him.
He is survived by his children: Larry Dale, Timothy Michael and Jon Martin (Renae)
Booth, all of Hays; stepchildren Kristi Foss of Manitou Springs, Co. and Kendall (Laura
Reif) Foss of Plainville. Larry leaves behind eleven grandchildren: Kim (Drew)
Gourlay, Brandon (Sarah) Booth, Matthew, Jacob and Elijah Booth, Andrew, Nicholas,
Zachary and Lucas Doneson, Madison (Foss) Olmstead and husband Logan , and Destiny Foss. He is also
survived by eight great-grandchildren: Josey (Noah) Yetter, Phoebe Booth, Karson
Kuhlmann, Pierce and Declan Gourlay, Louis and Otto Olmstead, Clara Bellew, and
numerous nieces and nephews.A service to honor his life will be held on January 17, 2026, at
1:00 PM at the Colby United Methodist Church. Burial will be at Beulah Cemetery
following the service, and a social gathering will be held afterward at the church, featuring
snacks and music. Memorials are suggested to Pickin’ on the Plains Music Festival and
to Sons of the American Legion and may be mailed to Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391,
Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.

Larry Leroy Booth

Randall Lewis 'Randy' Schmidtberger, 77,
of Hays, Kansas, passed away on Sunday,&nbsp;January 11, 2026, at his home.

He was born March 14, 1948, to Lewis C.
and Armella (Sander) Schmidtberger. He married Kate (Hein) Monhollon on September 15, 1973, at Hays, Kansas.

Randy spent most of his career as a
prominent banker in the Ellis County area at Farmers National Bank in Victoria, Sunflower Bank, First National
Bank, and Astra Bank, all in Hays.&nbsp; As a banker, he believed in giving people
chances to achieve their dreams. 

He grew up in Victoria, Kansas, was a
1968 graduate of Victoria High School, and received his BS from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; A star
athlete at Victoria High School, Randy remained competitive in sports well into his forties
and enjoyed coaching both of his sons’ sports teams.&nbsp; He was an avid golfer and
enjoyed playing almost any sport. Randy was a master at barbequing and loved listening to
loud music, playing cards and games, and family gatherings.&nbsp; He was quick-witted and
had everyone in stitches with his one-liners.

Randy is survived by his wife, Kate, of
the home; his sons, Gregg Monhollon and wife, Stef, Munjor, KS; Blake Schmidtberger and wife, Meredith
Green, Hays, KS; his sister, Mary Kay Hirsch, Plano, TX; his grandchildren, Kelsey
Schoessow; Alec Monhollon; Kirstin Smith; Stella Green-Schmidtberger; his step
grandson, Jack Hawkins, his nine great grandchildren, and his brothers-in-law
and sisters-in-law.

Randy was preceded in death by his
parents, Lewis and Armella Schmidtberger; his brother, Rayme Schmidtberger; his
brother-in-law, John Hirsch; and his sisters-in-law, Denise Scott and Melissa
Bradfield.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held
at 10 a.m. Thursday, January 15, 2026, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900
Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas, with Celebrant, Father Fred Gatschet. Burial
will be in Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.

A Vigil Service and Rosary will be at
6:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 14, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.

Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, and from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Thursday at the Basilica of Saint Fidelis.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests
memorials made payable to: Fort Hays University Endowment or Humane Society of
the High Plains in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd
&nbsp;Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.

Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com" target="_blank">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>
or left in the guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768331736495.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Randall 'Randy' Schmidtberger" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Randall 'Randy' Schmidtberger</figcaption>
 </figure>Randall Lewis 'Randy' Schmidtberger, 77,
of Hays, Kansas, passed away on Sunday,&nbsp;January 11, 2026, at his home.He was born March 14, 1948, to Lewis C.
and Armella (Sander) Schmidtberger. He married Kate (Hein) Monhollon on September 15, 1973, at Hays, Kansas.Randy spent most of his career as a
prominent banker in the Ellis County area at Farmers National Bank in Victoria, Sunflower Bank, First National
Bank, and Astra Bank, all in Hays.&nbsp; As a banker, he believed in giving people
chances to achieve their dreams. He grew up in Victoria, Kansas, was a
1968 graduate of Victoria High School, and received his BS from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; A star
athlete at Victoria High School, Randy remained competitive in sports well into his forties
and enjoyed coaching both of his sons’ sports teams.&nbsp; He was an avid golfer and
enjoyed playing almost any sport. Randy was a master at barbequing and loved listening to
loud music, playing cards and games, and family gatherings.&nbsp; He was quick-witted and
had everyone in stitches with his one-liners.Randy is survived by his wife, Kate, of
the home; his sons, Gregg Monhollon and wife, Stef, Munjor, KS; Blake Schmidtberger and wife, Meredith
Green, Hays, KS; his sister, Mary Kay Hirsch, Plano, TX; his grandchildren, Kelsey
Schoessow; Alec Monhollon; Kirstin Smith; Stella Green-Schmidtberger; his step
grandson, Jack Hawkins, his nine great grandchildren, and his brothers-in-law
and sisters-in-law.Randy was preceded in death by his
parents, Lewis and Armella Schmidtberger; his brother, Rayme Schmidtberger; his
brother-in-law, John Hirsch; and his sisters-in-law, Denise Scott and Melissa
Bradfield.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held
at 10 a.m. Thursday, January 15, 2026, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900
Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas, with Celebrant, Father Fred Gatschet. Burial
will be in Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.A Vigil Service and Rosary will be at
6:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 14, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Wednesday at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, and from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Thursday at the Basilica of Saint Fidelis.In lieu of flowers, the family suggests
memorials made payable to: Fort Hays University Endowment or Humane Society of
the High Plains in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd
&nbsp;Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com" target="_blank">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>
or left in the guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.&nbsp;

 Randall 'Randy' Schmidtberger

Gene D. Betts, 83, of Russell,
Kansas, passed away Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Wheatland Nursing Center in
Russell.

Gene was born April 20, 1942, in
Dorrance, Kansas, the first of two sons born to Marvin G. and Georgenna I.
(Miller) Betts. He grew up in Dorrance and later Russell, where he formed the
roots and relationships that shaped his life. He graduated from Russell High
School with the Class of 1960 and went on to attend Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; In his early years, Gene worked at Campbell’s
Greenhouse—an experience that sparked his lifelong love of gardening—and at
Evans Radiator Service. After Playdium Bowl was built in 1953, Gene began
working there as a young pinsetter, building the foundation for the love of
bowling that would follow him throughout his life. He later began what would
become a dedicated 34-year career with USD 407 as a custodian from 1967 to
2001. During this time, Gene also fulfilled a dream by owning Playdium Bowl
from 1991 to 2003, a place where he shared his love of bowling with countless
friends and families. Even long after his retirement from USD 407, he was
fondly known throughout the community as “Mr. Betts,” a testament to the impact
he had on generations of students. To his closest friends, he was known as
Geno.

After retiring from USD 407, Gene
continued to stay active and involved in his community by working at R&amp;M
Heating and Klema’s. He also spent time at Brunswick Zone in Westminster,
Colorado, working as a janitor and pin chaser from 2006 to 2010.&nbsp; On April 21, 1963, Gene married the love of
his life, Ruth Ann Brown. Their marriage was one built on loyalty, laughter,
and quiet devotion. Together they built a simple, honest life in Russell,
raising their daughter, Vickie, whom Gene cherished deeply. Ruth preceded him
in death on January 25, 2024, and the two are now reunited in eternal peace.

Gene was a longtime custodian at
Simpson Elementary School, where children and staff appreciated his
helpfulness, humor, and gentle spirit. He was a member of the 1st
Congregational Church of Russell, Russell Masonic Lodge #177, Russell Elks
Lodge, and the V.F.W. Post #6240. His hobbies reflected who he was—steady,
patient, and joyful. He enjoyed gardening, dancing, bowling, and spending time
with Vickie and his grandchildren, cherishing every moment with the family he
adored. Gene’s passion for the sport extended beyond bowling itself—he owned
Gene’s Pro Shop, where he enjoyed helping others find the right equipment and
improve their game. He took great pride in his bowling accomplishments,
including rolling a state high series of 748 on September 25, 1968, his first
800 series on January 12, 1982, and his first 300 game on January 27, 1982.
Gene also looked forward to his weekly “Safety Meetings” with the manager and
head mechanic from Brunswick—moments filled with friendship, laughter, and a
beer or two.

Gene lived a life defined by
kindness, hard work, and quiet generosity. He found joy in simple
things—freshly turned soil in the garden, a well-thrown bowling ball, a shared
laugh with friends, and precious time with family. His legacy lives on in the
people he loved, the community he served, and the countless small acts of care
that brightened the lives of others. Those who knew Gene will remember his
gentle heart, steady presence, and the warmth he brought into every room. He
leaves behind a legacy of love that will be felt for generations.&nbsp;

Gene’s surviving family include
his daughter, Vickie Hill and husband Tom of Russell, Kansas; grandchildren
Tabitha (Phillip), Tiffany (James), Thomas, and Trevor (Sarah); and eight
great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

Gene was preceded in death by his
father, Marvin; his brother, Gerald; his mother, Georgenna; and his beloved
wife, Ruth.

A Memorial Service will be held
at 11:00 AM, Friday, January 16, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary.
Visitation will be held Thursday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM at the mortuary, with
the family present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A memorial has
been established with Wheatland Nursing Center. 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/2026/1/1768320090255.jpeg" alt="Gene D. Betts" />
 <figcaption>Gene D. Betts</figcaption>
 </figure>Gene D. Betts, 83, of Russell,
Kansas, passed away Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Wheatland Nursing Center in
Russell.Gene was born April 20, 1942, in
Dorrance, Kansas, the first of two sons born to Marvin G. and Georgenna I.
(Miller) Betts. He grew up in Dorrance and later Russell, where he formed the
roots and relationships that shaped his life. He graduated from Russell High
School with the Class of 1960 and went on to attend Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; In his early years, Gene worked at Campbell’s
Greenhouse—an experience that sparked his lifelong love of gardening—and at
Evans Radiator Service. After Playdium Bowl was built in 1953, Gene began
working there as a young pinsetter, building the foundation for the love of
bowling that would follow him throughout his life. He later began what would
become a dedicated 34-year career with USD 407 as a custodian from 1967 to
2001. During this time, Gene also fulfilled a dream by owning Playdium Bowl
from 1991 to 2003, a place where he shared his love of bowling with countless
friends and families. Even long after his retirement from USD 407, he was
fondly known throughout the community as “Mr. Betts,” a testament to the impact
he had on generations of students. To his closest friends, he was known as
Geno.After retiring from USD 407, Gene
continued to stay active and involved in his community by working at R&amp;M
Heating and Klema’s. He also spent time at Brunswick Zone in Westminster,
Colorado, working as a janitor and pin chaser from 2006 to 2010.&nbsp; On April 21, 1963, Gene married the love of
his life, Ruth Ann Brown. Their marriage was one built on loyalty, laughter,
and quiet devotion. Together they built a simple, honest life in Russell,
raising their daughter, Vickie, whom Gene cherished deeply. Ruth preceded him
in death on January 25, 2024, and the two are now reunited in eternal peace.Gene was a longtime custodian at
Simpson Elementary School, where children and staff appreciated his
helpfulness, humor, and gentle spirit. He was a member of the 1st
Congregational Church of Russell, Russell Masonic Lodge #177, Russell Elks
Lodge, and the V.F.W. Post #6240. His hobbies reflected who he was—steady,
patient, and joyful. He enjoyed gardening, dancing, bowling, and spending time
with Vickie and his grandchildren, cherishing every moment with the family he
adored. Gene’s passion for the sport extended beyond bowling itself—he owned
Gene’s Pro Shop, where he enjoyed helping others find the right equipment and
improve their game. He took great pride in his bowling accomplishments,
including rolling a state high series of 748 on September 25, 1968, his first
800 series on January 12, 1982, and his first 300 game on January 27, 1982.
Gene also looked forward to his weekly “Safety Meetings” with the manager and
head mechanic from Brunswick—moments filled with friendship, laughter, and a
beer or two.Gene lived a life defined by
kindness, hard work, and quiet generosity. He found joy in simple
things—freshly turned soil in the garden, a well-thrown bowling ball, a shared
laugh with friends, and precious time with family. His legacy lives on in the
people he loved, the community he served, and the countless small acts of care
that brightened the lives of others. Those who knew Gene will remember his
gentle heart, steady presence, and the warmth he brought into every room. He
leaves behind a legacy of love that will be felt for generations.&nbsp;Gene’s surviving family include
his daughter, Vickie Hill and husband Tom of Russell, Kansas; grandchildren
Tabitha (Phillip), Tiffany (James), Thomas, and Trevor (Sarah); and eight
great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride.Gene was preceded in death by his
father, Marvin; his brother, Gerald; his mother, Georgenna; and his beloved
wife, Ruth.A Memorial Service will be held
at 11:00 AM, Friday, January 16, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary.
Visitation will be held Thursday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM at the mortuary, with
the family present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A memorial has
been established with Wheatland Nursing Center. Contributions and condolences
may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these
arrangements.

Gene D. Betts

Grace Kathleen McGinnis, 87, of Hays, Kansas, died on January 9,
2026, at Hays Medical&nbsp;Center.

Grace was born Grace Kathleen Staab on July 4, 1938, at Saint
Anthony’s Hospital in Hays,&nbsp;Kansas,
to Joseph J. Staab and Rose M. Schuvie. She graduated from Girls Catholic High&nbsp;School in Hays and earned a degree in Art from
Fort Hays State University. While attending&nbsp;college,
she met Darrell D. McGinnis, and they were married on August 20, 1960, at Saint&nbsp;Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hays. Darrell
preceded her in death in August 2020. Together, they&nbsp;made their home on West 13th Street in Hays for
55 years, remodeling the house in the late&nbsp;1970s.

Grace’s life reflected both creativity and dedication. She was a
homemaker, co-owner of&nbsp;Beadery
and Baskets in Hays, a medical transcriptionist, and a talented cellist. An
avid reader,&nbsp;she often read
three or more books a week and meticulously cataloged every one. She especially&nbsp;enjoyed suspense and crime novels.

Grace embraced creativity in all forms and encouraged it in others
through crafts, cooking,&nbsp;baking,
and needlework. One of her favorite pastimes was reading cookbooks for pleasure
and&nbsp;collecting recipes—even
those she never made. She also loved trying new foods.

She volunteered many years with the Hays Arts Council, generously
donating countless hours&nbsp;of her
time.

Grace is remembered for her sense of humor, generous hospitality,
strong self-determination, and&nbsp;belief
in equality. She guided her children to be independent and confident
individuals. She loved&nbsp;music,
dancing, playing cards, and word and board games, and was the original champion
of&nbsp;Squeel. While watching
Jeopardy!, she could often provide the questions to most of the answers.

Grace was preceded in death by her son Martin, who died in
childhood; her husband Darrell;&nbsp;her
parents; and her brother Terry Staab.

She is survived by her sister Nancy and husband Marvin
Schmidtberger of Pratt; sister-in-law&nbsp;Betty
Staab of Texas; daughter Erin and husband David Hughes of Hays; sons Collin and
wife&nbsp;Maria Cordoba of Maize,
Kansas; Sean and husband Stéphane Lescoules of Paris, France; and&nbsp;Patrick and wife Penny Moss of Hays; 12
grandchildren: Marty Hughes; Megan Hughes and&nbsp;husband Devin Rohweder; Jessica Hughes; Hannah
Hughes and husband C.J. West;&nbsp;Anthony
Barone; Shelby Barone and husband Michael Baggett; Sydney McGinnis; Emily&nbsp;McGinnis; Josh McGinnis and wife Brittney Craft;
Aubrey McGinnis and husband&nbsp;Zachary
Woolf; and Andrew McGinnis and fiancée Kati Burge; and 11 great-grandchildren:&nbsp;John, Ada, Nora, Ally, Chapman, Syrus, Evelyn,
Lincoln, Liam, Logan, and Leighton.

Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, January 17, 2026 at
11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church - Hays, 215 West 13th Street Hays,
Kansas 67601. Inurnment will follow the mass in the parish cemetery. Viewing
and visitation will be Friday, January 16, 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM with a
combined parish vigil and rosary service beginning at 7 PM all at Keithley
Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas
67601.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Darrell and Grace
McGinnis Memorial Scholarship at Fort Hays State University in care of the
funeral chapel.

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

Services in care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory -
Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768319938014.jpeg" alt="Grace Kathleen McGinnis" />
 <figcaption>Grace Kathleen McGinnis</figcaption>
 </figure>Grace Kathleen McGinnis, 87, of Hays, Kansas, died on January 9,
2026, at Hays Medical&nbsp;Center.Grace was born Grace Kathleen Staab on July 4, 1938, at Saint
Anthony’s Hospital in Hays,&nbsp;Kansas,
to Joseph J. Staab and Rose M. Schuvie. She graduated from Girls Catholic High&nbsp;School in Hays and earned a degree in Art from
Fort Hays State University. While attending&nbsp;college,
she met Darrell D. McGinnis, and they were married on August 20, 1960, at Saint&nbsp;Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hays. Darrell
preceded her in death in August 2020. Together, they&nbsp;made their home on West 13th Street in Hays for
55 years, remodeling the house in the late&nbsp;1970s.Grace’s life reflected both creativity and dedication. She was a
homemaker, co-owner of&nbsp;Beadery
and Baskets in Hays, a medical transcriptionist, and a talented cellist. An
avid reader,&nbsp;she often read
three or more books a week and meticulously cataloged every one. She especially&nbsp;enjoyed suspense and crime novels.Grace embraced creativity in all forms and encouraged it in others
through crafts, cooking,&nbsp;baking,
and needlework. One of her favorite pastimes was reading cookbooks for pleasure
and&nbsp;collecting recipes—even
those she never made. She also loved trying new foods.She volunteered many years with the Hays Arts Council, generously
donating countless hours&nbsp;of her
time.Grace is remembered for her sense of humor, generous hospitality,
strong self-determination, and&nbsp;belief
in equality. She guided her children to be independent and confident
individuals. She loved&nbsp;music,
dancing, playing cards, and word and board games, and was the original champion
of&nbsp;Squeel. While watching
Jeopardy!, she could often provide the questions to most of the answers.Grace was preceded in death by her son Martin, who died in
childhood; her husband Darrell;&nbsp;her
parents; and her brother Terry Staab.She is survived by her sister Nancy and husband Marvin
Schmidtberger of Pratt; sister-in-law&nbsp;Betty
Staab of Texas; daughter Erin and husband David Hughes of Hays; sons Collin and
wife&nbsp;Maria Cordoba of Maize,
Kansas; Sean and husband Stéphane Lescoules of Paris, France; and&nbsp;Patrick and wife Penny Moss of Hays; 12
grandchildren: Marty Hughes; Megan Hughes and&nbsp;husband Devin Rohweder; Jessica Hughes; Hannah
Hughes and husband C.J. West;&nbsp;Anthony
Barone; Shelby Barone and husband Michael Baggett; Sydney McGinnis; Emily&nbsp;McGinnis; Josh McGinnis and wife Brittney Craft;
Aubrey McGinnis and husband&nbsp;Zachary
Woolf; and Andrew McGinnis and fiancée Kati Burge; and 11 great-grandchildren:&nbsp;John, Ada, Nora, Ally, Chapman, Syrus, Evelyn,
Lincoln, Liam, Logan, and Leighton.Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, January 17, 2026 at
11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church - Hays, 215 West 13th Street Hays,
Kansas 67601. Inurnment will follow the mass in the parish cemetery. Viewing
and visitation will be Friday, January 16, 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM with a
combined parish vigil and rosary service beginning at 7 PM all at Keithley
Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas
67601.Memorial contributions are suggested to the Darrell and Grace
McGinnis Memorial Scholarship at Fort Hays State University in care of the
funeral chapel.Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Grace's family on
her tribute page via:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;Services in care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory -
Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

Grace Kathleen McGinnis

Shannon Leigh McGuire, a woman of unwavering love for her family and friends, was born on August 21, 1973, in Osborne, Kansas. She passed away on December 27, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.

Shannon grew up on the family farm, an experience that instilled in her a deep appreciation for the great outdoors and shaped her lively spirit. She was educated at Osborne Elementary and Smith Center Elementary, proudly graduating from Smith Center High School in 1991. Those who knew her would often describe her as feisty, fearless, and fiercely protective of those she loved.

Her love for life was reflected in her early years when she worked at Jiffy Burger during her high school days, where she started to develop her strong work ethic. Throughout her career, Shannon brought dedication and passion to her roles at Classic Eagle, O'Malley Beverage Company, and Western First Aid and Safety.

In addition to her professional life, Shannon had a plethora of interests and hobbies that brought her joy. She took great pleasure in practicing Pilates, playing tennis, and swimming. Her love for animals was profound, particularly for dogs, as she actively adopted from the humane society and made it a mission to provide a loving home for those in need.

Shannon is survived by her devoted husband, Chris Adams, of Topeka, Kansas. She cherished her family deeply, including her mother and step-father, Brenda (Reed) Stahn, and her siblings: Jeremy (Jessica) McGuire of Hays, Kansas; Allison (Mark Spears) McGuire of Lucas, Kansas; David Sturgeon (Donel) of Plainville, Kansas; Rose Sturgeon of Denver, Colorado; Tom (Ronda) McGuire of Independence, Missouri; Shelly (Bill) McGuire-Herbert of Belton, Missouri; Cindy (Alan) Poore of Alton, Kansas; Toby (Jodi) Boyle of Smith Center, Kansas; Matt (Carly Stahn) of Des Moines, Iowa; and Will Stahn of Lincoln, Nebraska; and her mother in law, Beth (Wayne) Kalsow of Markesan, WI. Shannon was preceded in death by her father, Richard McGuire.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 12:00pm-3:00pm at the Blue Sage Barn, 1484 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, KS 66503. Memories will be shared beginning at 12:30pm. The family kindly asks that RSVP’s be sent to the funeral home by email to Misty Patel,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mpatel@newcomer.com">mpatel@newcomer.com</a>. In her honor, memorial contributions can be made to the Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st, Topeka, KS 66604.

To leave a message for her family online, please visit the guestbook below.

To order<a href="https://websites.tukios.com/o/v2/trees/7379bf79-5446-4a47-a935-0ea3b5dc5c37" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Shannon Leigh McGuire, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://websites.tukios.com/orders/v2/flowers/7379bf79-5446-4a47-a935-0ea3b5dc5c37" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768258214935.jpeg" alt="Shannon Leigh McGuire" />
 <figcaption>Shannon Leigh McGuire</figcaption>
 </figure>Shannon Leigh McGuire, a woman of unwavering love for her family and friends, was born on August 21, 1973, in Osborne, Kansas. She passed away on December 27, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.Shannon grew up on the family farm, an experience that instilled in her a deep appreciation for the great outdoors and shaped her lively spirit. She was educated at Osborne Elementary and Smith Center Elementary, proudly graduating from Smith Center High School in 1991. Those who knew her would often describe her as feisty, fearless, and fiercely protective of those she loved.Her love for life was reflected in her early years when she worked at Jiffy Burger during her high school days, where she started to develop her strong work ethic. Throughout her career, Shannon brought dedication and passion to her roles at Classic Eagle, O'Malley Beverage Company, and Western First Aid and Safety.In addition to her professional life, Shannon had a plethora of interests and hobbies that brought her joy. She took great pleasure in practicing Pilates, playing tennis, and swimming. Her love for animals was profound, particularly for dogs, as she actively adopted from the humane society and made it a mission to provide a loving home for those in need.Shannon is survived by her devoted husband, Chris Adams, of Topeka, Kansas. She cherished her family deeply, including her mother and step-father, Brenda (Reed) Stahn, and her siblings: Jeremy (Jessica) McGuire of Hays, Kansas; Allison (Mark Spears) McGuire of Lucas, Kansas; David Sturgeon (Donel) of Plainville, Kansas; Rose Sturgeon of Denver, Colorado; Tom (Ronda) McGuire of Independence, Missouri; Shelly (Bill) McGuire-Herbert of Belton, Missouri; Cindy (Alan) Poore of Alton, Kansas; Toby (Jodi) Boyle of Smith Center, Kansas; Matt (Carly Stahn) of Des Moines, Iowa; and Will Stahn of Lincoln, Nebraska; and her mother in law, Beth (Wayne) Kalsow of Markesan, WI. Shannon was preceded in death by her father, Richard McGuire.A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 12:00pm-3:00pm at the Blue Sage Barn, 1484 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, KS 66503. Memories will be shared beginning at 12:30pm. The family kindly asks that RSVP’s be sent to the funeral home by email to Misty Patel,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mpatel@newcomer.com">mpatel@newcomer.com</a>. In her honor, memorial contributions can be made to the Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st, Topeka, KS 66604.To leave a message for her family online, please visit the guestbook below.To order<a href="https://websites.tukios.com/o/v2/trees/7379bf79-5446-4a47-a935-0ea3b5dc5c37" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Shannon Leigh McGuire, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://websites.tukios.com/orders/v2/flowers/7379bf79-5446-4a47-a935-0ea3b5dc5c37" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

Shannon Leigh McGuire

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) Sekavec of
Hays.

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.

<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) Sekavec of
Hays.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.

Obituaries