Arthur
Charles Karlin, age 98, of Hays, Kansas passed away Monday, February 2, 2026 at
Via Christi Village, Hays.



Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Monday, February 9, 2026 at St. Joseph's
Catholic Church. Burial will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery.



Visitation will be Monday 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM with a rosary service at 10:30 AM
all at the church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Joseph's Church or the St. Thomas
More Society.

&nbsp; A complete obituary will be provided by Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory
2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601 when completed.


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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770296964373.png" alt="Arthur Charles Karlin" />
 <figcaption>Arthur Charles Karlin</figcaption>
 </figure>Arthur
Charles Karlin, age 98, of Hays, Kansas passed away Monday, February 2, 2026 at
Via Christi Village, Hays.

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Monday, February 9, 2026 at St. Joseph's
Catholic Church. Burial will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery.

Visitation will be Monday 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM with a rosary service at 10:30 AM
all at the church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Joseph's Church or the St. Thomas
More Society.&nbsp; A complete obituary will be provided by Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory
2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601 when completed.

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

Arthur Charles Karlin

Lawrence 'Jug' Younger, Jr. passed away peacefully on
February 3, 2026 in Hays, Kansas surrounded by family.&nbsp;

Many words describe Lawrence 'Jug' Younger, Jr. &nbsp;Amongst those are leader, police officer,
comedian, fisherman, presidential chauffeur, sports enthusiast, brother,
dishwasher, uncle, friend, garbage disposal, onion chopper, raw-hamburger
maker, vacuum king, and channel surfer. &nbsp;However,
his favorite titles included that of husband, father, grandfather, and great
grandfather.&nbsp;

He was born at over eleven pounds to Lawrence Younger Sr.
and Anna (Pfannenstiel) Younger on July 17, 1938 in Hays. Upon arrival, he was
greeted by three eager and doting older sisters, Rosie, Lesta, and Florence.&nbsp; Eventually a younger sister, Dorothy, joined
the family. &nbsp;His sisters were more than a
little disappointed by his rather large size as they expected a baby and were
given a toddler. &nbsp;Growing up, Jug loved
fishing at Big Creek and shooting his BB gun.&nbsp;

His life really got interesting his freshman year of high
school when, at age 14, he met his future wife and partner, Louise Walburn. &nbsp;On May 19, 1957, Jug and Louise were married
in Great Bend. Together they had five children and acted as surrogate parents
to many others throughout the years.&nbsp;

Professionally, Jug worked his way through the ranks of
the Hays Police Department and after 24 years became Chief of Police in 1982. &nbsp;He remained police chief for 20 years, the
longest of any Hays police chief, and a record he still holds today.&nbsp;

Jug will be remembered by those who loved him as someone
who was a family man through and through.&nbsp;
During his retirement years he spent time doing countless projects in
and around the house with Louise as well as entertaining and enjoying his
children, their spouses, and his 11 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Jug is survived by his wife of almost 69 years, Louise
Younger of Hays, his children Cindy Younger of Wichita, Dave Younger (Kelly) of
Oakley, Chris Hobbs (Greg) of Hays, Darryl Younger of Hays, and Doug Younger
(Kelly) of Auburn, one sister Florence Wear of Hays, his grandchildren Keaton
Younger (Katie), Kamri Younger, Karson Younger, KT Younger, Deacon Younger
(Kelsey), Kirby Younger, Macy Younger (Robert), Dustin Hobbs (Megan), Brooke
Keltner (Stu), Summer Demel (Dylan), and Austin Sloyer (Lauren), his great
grandchildren Taylor Garner (Derrik), Tyson, Brooklyn, Cam, Landry, Owen, and
Beau Younger, Halle, Shae and Miles Keltner, Lindsay and Landyn Demel, Hudson
Sloyer, Benjamin, Oliver, and Louis Delgado, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three
sisters, Rosie Koirth, Celeste Pfannenstiel, and Dorothy Mermis.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on
Saturday, February 7, 2026 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Susan
Murithi, Pastor Chad Pritchett, and the Hays Police Department Honor Guard
officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be at a later date in Mt. Allen
Cemetery.&nbsp; The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on
Friday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from 10:00 am until service
time on Saturday at the church.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Heartland
Community Foundation for the Hays Police Department Endowment Fund.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Jug may be left
for his family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770296687515.jpeg" alt="Lawrence 'Jug' Younger, Jr" />
 <figcaption>Lawrence 'Jug' Younger, Jr</figcaption>
 </figure>Lawrence 'Jug' Younger, Jr. passed away peacefully on
February 3, 2026 in Hays, Kansas surrounded by family.&nbsp;Many words describe Lawrence 'Jug' Younger, Jr. &nbsp;Amongst those are leader, police officer,
comedian, fisherman, presidential chauffeur, sports enthusiast, brother,
dishwasher, uncle, friend, garbage disposal, onion chopper, raw-hamburger
maker, vacuum king, and channel surfer. &nbsp;However,
his favorite titles included that of husband, father, grandfather, and great
grandfather.&nbsp;He was born at over eleven pounds to Lawrence Younger Sr.
and Anna (Pfannenstiel) Younger on July 17, 1938 in Hays. Upon arrival, he was
greeted by three eager and doting older sisters, Rosie, Lesta, and Florence.&nbsp; Eventually a younger sister, Dorothy, joined
the family. &nbsp;His sisters were more than a
little disappointed by his rather large size as they expected a baby and were
given a toddler. &nbsp;Growing up, Jug loved
fishing at Big Creek and shooting his BB gun.&nbsp;His life really got interesting his freshman year of high
school when, at age 14, he met his future wife and partner, Louise Walburn. &nbsp;On May 19, 1957, Jug and Louise were married
in Great Bend. Together they had five children and acted as surrogate parents
to many others throughout the years.&nbsp;Professionally, Jug worked his way through the ranks of
the Hays Police Department and after 24 years became Chief of Police in 1982. &nbsp;He remained police chief for 20 years, the
longest of any Hays police chief, and a record he still holds today.&nbsp;Jug will be remembered by those who loved him as someone
who was a family man through and through.&nbsp;
During his retirement years he spent time doing countless projects in
and around the house with Louise as well as entertaining and enjoying his
children, their spouses, and his 11 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.Jug is survived by his wife of almost 69 years, Louise
Younger of Hays, his children Cindy Younger of Wichita, Dave Younger (Kelly) of
Oakley, Chris Hobbs (Greg) of Hays, Darryl Younger of Hays, and Doug Younger
(Kelly) of Auburn, one sister Florence Wear of Hays, his grandchildren Keaton
Younger (Katie), Kamri Younger, Karson Younger, KT Younger, Deacon Younger
(Kelsey), Kirby Younger, Macy Younger (Robert), Dustin Hobbs (Megan), Brooke
Keltner (Stu), Summer Demel (Dylan), and Austin Sloyer (Lauren), his great
grandchildren Taylor Garner (Derrik), Tyson, Brooklyn, Cam, Landry, Owen, and
Beau Younger, Halle, Shae and Miles Keltner, Lindsay and Landyn Demel, Hudson
Sloyer, Benjamin, Oliver, and Louis Delgado, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents and three
sisters, Rosie Koirth, Celeste Pfannenstiel, and Dorothy Mermis.Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on
Saturday, February 7, 2026 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Susan
Murithi, Pastor Chad Pritchett, and the Hays Police Department Honor Guard
officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be at a later date in Mt. Allen
Cemetery.&nbsp; The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on
Friday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from 10:00 am until service
time on Saturday at the church.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Heartland
Community Foundation for the Hays Police Department Endowment Fund.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Jug may be left
for his family at www.haysmemorial.com

Lawrence 'Jug' Younger, Jr

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.

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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

Marguerite Stewart of Hays, joined her loved ones in Heaven
on her 93rd birthday, January 29, 2026.&nbsp;
She had lived at Via Christi Village in Hays since June 10, 2024.

Marguerite was born on her family’s dairy farm in rural Clay
County, Kansas on January 29, 1933, to Quin B. and Mary M. (Benfer)
Steenbock.&nbsp; As soon as she was old
enough, she looked after her younger siblings Helen, Raymond, and Marvin, and
fixed breakfast while her parents were doing the morning milking on their dairy
farm.&nbsp; When she was older, she also
helped milk the cows and many other farm chores.&nbsp; She attended a one-room school from first to
eighth grade.

In the fall of 1947, she became a freshman at Longford Rural
High School in the small town of Longford, Kansas, where she met her future
husband, Wayne.&nbsp; They dated for three
years, and after her graduation in May of 1951, they were married September 2,
1951.&nbsp; Their marriage lasted more than 72
years and resulted in four children: Brenda, Susan, Brian, and Sharon.

Marguerite took great pride in being a homemaker and
mother.&nbsp; She kept a spotless house and
was a wonderful cook and baker.&nbsp; When
anyone came to visit and walked through the kitchen, they were met with the
sight and aroma of freshly baked cookies, cake, pie, or cinnamon rolls.&nbsp; She was also a very talented seamstress who
sewed most of her three daughters’ clothes until they were in high school and
made many of their bridesmaid dresses when they married.&nbsp; When granddaughters came along, she sewed for
them as well.&nbsp; In her later years
Marguerite rarely sat down without some handwork to keep her busy and
embroidered many sets of tea towels for her granddaughters and quilt blocks for
baby quilts for her great grandkids.&nbsp;
Every quilt she gifted to her family was sewn with love and care in
every stitch and will provide cherished memories of her for years to come.&nbsp; She was a faithful member of the Tuesday
Morning Quilter’s Group at First United Methodist Church (FUMC) for many years
and looked forward to their weekly gatherings.&nbsp;
She loved the fellowship and satisfaction of completing another quilt to
be auctioned off at the church’s annual Peddler’s Fair.&nbsp; Like her mother, she enjoyed gardening and
growing flowers and houseplants, and she, too, taught her daughters to cook at
a young age so they could fix supper while she worked in the yard.

Marguerite was a very active member of FUMC and participated
in countless ways after becoming a member in 1964.&nbsp; She taught pre-school and first grade Sunday
School, helped with Bible School and Kids’ Club, and accompanied Children’s
Choir.&nbsp; She was a member of Council on
Ministries, Ad Board, and a Stephen Minister.&nbsp;
Serving as the church wedding coordinator, training and scheduling
acolytes, and participating in United Methodist Women (UMW) brought her great
fulfillment and joy. She served as president of her local UMW chapter and also
as Hays District President.&nbsp; She
supervised countless Peddler’s Fair luncheons and funeral dinners. She and
Wayne enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels and visiting other shut-ins.&nbsp; A favorite memory of grandkids is going along
to deliver cookies or a piece of cake to neighbors and nursing home
residents.&nbsp; Marguerite and Wayne always
agreed that their best friends were their church friends.

Marguerite was preceded in death by her parents, her husband
Wayne, her brother-in-law Jack (Helen), and sister-in-law Audrey (Marvin).

She is survived by daughters Brenda Hinton, Hays, and Sue
Riley, Wichita, son Brian Stewart (Alicia) Leawood, and daughter Sharon Bunting
(Rob), Wichita. Her nine grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren include:
Blythe Brown (Mike), daughter Emersyn and son Ellis, Victoria; Breanne Nelson
(partner Mike), daughter Shiloh, Merriam; Jennifer Hartman (Jeremy),
Lillington, North Carolina; Courtney Waller (Andy), son Cash and daughter Ava,
Wichita; Hannah Marchand (Curtis IV ), sons Curtis V and Vincent, and daughter
Riley, Overland Park; Sydney Stewart, Leawood; Katelyn Miller (Jordan), and
daughter Mia, Overland Park; Andrew Bunting (Jessica), son Camden and daughter
Chloe, Kansas City, Missouri; and Alex Bunting, Wichita.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, February
14, 2026, at First United Methodist Church with Pastor Troy Miller
officiating.&nbsp; The family will receive
friends from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Hays Memorial
Chapel Funeral Home, and from 10:00 am until service time on Saturday at the
church.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be
at a later date in Fort Hays Memorial Gardens Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to First United
Methodist Church or to St. John’s Chapel at Via Christi Village, Hays.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Marguerite may be
left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769811812550.jpeg" alt="Marguerite Stewart" />
 <figcaption>Marguerite Stewart</figcaption>
 </figure>Marguerite Stewart of Hays, joined her loved ones in Heaven
on her 93rd birthday, January 29, 2026.&nbsp;
She had lived at Via Christi Village in Hays since June 10, 2024.Marguerite was born on her family’s dairy farm in rural Clay
County, Kansas on January 29, 1933, to Quin B. and Mary M. (Benfer)
Steenbock.&nbsp; As soon as she was old
enough, she looked after her younger siblings Helen, Raymond, and Marvin, and
fixed breakfast while her parents were doing the morning milking on their dairy
farm.&nbsp; When she was older, she also
helped milk the cows and many other farm chores.&nbsp; She attended a one-room school from first to
eighth grade.In the fall of 1947, she became a freshman at Longford Rural
High School in the small town of Longford, Kansas, where she met her future
husband, Wayne.&nbsp; They dated for three
years, and after her graduation in May of 1951, they were married September 2,
1951.&nbsp; Their marriage lasted more than 72
years and resulted in four children: Brenda, Susan, Brian, and Sharon.Marguerite took great pride in being a homemaker and
mother.&nbsp; She kept a spotless house and
was a wonderful cook and baker.&nbsp; When
anyone came to visit and walked through the kitchen, they were met with the
sight and aroma of freshly baked cookies, cake, pie, or cinnamon rolls.&nbsp; She was also a very talented seamstress who
sewed most of her three daughters’ clothes until they were in high school and
made many of their bridesmaid dresses when they married.&nbsp; When granddaughters came along, she sewed for
them as well.&nbsp; In her later years
Marguerite rarely sat down without some handwork to keep her busy and
embroidered many sets of tea towels for her granddaughters and quilt blocks for
baby quilts for her great grandkids.&nbsp;
Every quilt she gifted to her family was sewn with love and care in
every stitch and will provide cherished memories of her for years to come.&nbsp; She was a faithful member of the Tuesday
Morning Quilter’s Group at First United Methodist Church (FUMC) for many years
and looked forward to their weekly gatherings.&nbsp;
She loved the fellowship and satisfaction of completing another quilt to
be auctioned off at the church’s annual Peddler’s Fair.&nbsp; Like her mother, she enjoyed gardening and
growing flowers and houseplants, and she, too, taught her daughters to cook at
a young age so they could fix supper while she worked in the yard.Marguerite was a very active member of FUMC and participated
in countless ways after becoming a member in 1964.&nbsp; She taught pre-school and first grade Sunday
School, helped with Bible School and Kids’ Club, and accompanied Children’s
Choir.&nbsp; She was a member of Council on
Ministries, Ad Board, and a Stephen Minister.&nbsp;
Serving as the church wedding coordinator, training and scheduling
acolytes, and participating in United Methodist Women (UMW) brought her great
fulfillment and joy. She served as president of her local UMW chapter and also
as Hays District President.&nbsp; She
supervised countless Peddler’s Fair luncheons and funeral dinners. She and
Wayne enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels and visiting other shut-ins.&nbsp; A favorite memory of grandkids is going along
to deliver cookies or a piece of cake to neighbors and nursing home
residents.&nbsp; Marguerite and Wayne always
agreed that their best friends were their church friends.Marguerite was preceded in death by her parents, her husband
Wayne, her brother-in-law Jack (Helen), and sister-in-law Audrey (Marvin).She is survived by daughters Brenda Hinton, Hays, and Sue
Riley, Wichita, son Brian Stewart (Alicia) Leawood, and daughter Sharon Bunting
(Rob), Wichita. Her nine grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren include:
Blythe Brown (Mike), daughter Emersyn and son Ellis, Victoria; Breanne Nelson
(partner Mike), daughter Shiloh, Merriam; Jennifer Hartman (Jeremy),
Lillington, North Carolina; Courtney Waller (Andy), son Cash and daughter Ava,
Wichita; Hannah Marchand (Curtis IV ), sons Curtis V and Vincent, and daughter
Riley, Overland Park; Sydney Stewart, Leawood; Katelyn Miller (Jordan), and
daughter Mia, Overland Park; Andrew Bunting (Jessica), son Camden and daughter
Chloe, Kansas City, Missouri; and Alex Bunting, Wichita.Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, February
14, 2026, at First United Methodist Church with Pastor Troy Miller
officiating.&nbsp; The family will receive
friends from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Hays Memorial
Chapel Funeral Home, and from 10:00 am until service time on Saturday at the
church.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be
at a later date in Fort Hays Memorial Gardens Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to First United
Methodist Church or to St. John’s Chapel at Via Christi Village, Hays.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Marguerite may be
left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Marguerite Stewart

Fenton
Jerome 'Jerry' Horton, age 90, of Hays, Kansas passed away Tuesday,
February 3, 2026 at the Good Samaritan Society, Hays.



Arrangements are pending and will be announced by Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory-Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KSS 67601.


Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains
or to the First Presbyterian Church of Hays.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770297127603.png" alt="Fenton Jerome 'Jerry' Horton" />
 <figcaption>Fenton Jerome 'Jerry' Horton</figcaption>
 </figure>Fenton
Jerome 'Jerry' Horton, age 90, of Hays, Kansas passed away Tuesday,
February 3, 2026 at the Good Samaritan Society, Hays.

Arrangements are pending and will be announced by Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory-Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KSS 67601.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains
or to the First Presbyterian Church of Hays.

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

Fenton Jerome 'Jerry' Horton

Steven C. 'Steve' Hawthorne, 70, Hays, died Monday, February
2, 2026 at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita.

He was born August 1, 1955 in Little River, Kansas the son
of Howard and Georgine (Ginn) Hawthorne.&nbsp;
He graduated from Hays High School with the class of 1973 and was
Director of Engineering and Technical Services at Cross Manufacturing,
Inc.&nbsp; On November 4, 1978 he was united
in marriage to Vicki L. Pfannenstiel in Antonino.&nbsp; 

Steve loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and
fisherman in his younger years. He loved sitting around the campfire with his
family and friends, sharing stories after days of boating and water sports.
Steve grew up on the family lake in Little River, Kansas, and he made sure
Vicki and his girls spent at least a week every summer, and most weekends,
camping and boating. Steve instilled his love of cooking in his daughters and
was always trying new techniques and recipes.&nbsp;


Steve was creative with activities for the kids and
grandkids to do, like axe throwing in the backyard and turning a stock tank
into a pool. He always had glow sticks and popsicles ready to give the
grandkids when they would visit. He loved music and dancing and there would be
family dance nights with music blasting in the living room. 

On July 2, 1976, he started working for Cross Manufacturing,
Inc. and was looking forward to celebrating his 50th anniversary
this coming July.

Survivors include his wife Vicki of Hays, three daughters
Skye Bare (Robert) of Pratt, Erin Kinderknecht (Dr. Benjamin) of Maryville, MO,
and Carly Hawthorne (Jesse Stockwell) of Colorado Springs, CO, five
grandchildren Natalie Noland (Nick), Shawndra Cook (Jacob), Blake Bare, and
Quenton and Isabella Kinderknecht, two great grandchildren Isla Cook and Nevaeh
Noland, his mother-in-law Jean Pfannenstiel Rozell of Pittsburg, TX, a brother
Lee Hawthorne of Otis, and numerous nieces and nephews.&nbsp; 

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Wynona
Murray, a niece Kathleen Murray, and his father-in-law Lester Pfannenstiel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday,
February 17, 2026 at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church in Antonino
with Fr. Job Varghese, OFM Cap. Officiating.&nbsp;
Inurnment will follow in the church cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on
Monday, February 16, 2026 at the Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from
9:00 am until service time on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at the church.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Antonino
Cemetery Association or to the Cancer Council of Ellis County.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Steve may be
shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770214711895.jpeg" alt="Steven C. 'Steve' Hawthorne" />
 <figcaption>Steven C. 'Steve' Hawthorne</figcaption>
 </figure>Steven C. 'Steve' Hawthorne, 70, Hays, died Monday, February
2, 2026 at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita.He was born August 1, 1955 in Little River, Kansas the son
of Howard and Georgine (Ginn) Hawthorne.&nbsp;
He graduated from Hays High School with the class of 1973 and was
Director of Engineering and Technical Services at Cross Manufacturing,
Inc.&nbsp; On November 4, 1978 he was united
in marriage to Vicki L. Pfannenstiel in Antonino.&nbsp; Steve loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and
fisherman in his younger years. He loved sitting around the campfire with his
family and friends, sharing stories after days of boating and water sports.
Steve grew up on the family lake in Little River, Kansas, and he made sure
Vicki and his girls spent at least a week every summer, and most weekends,
camping and boating. Steve instilled his love of cooking in his daughters and
was always trying new techniques and recipes.&nbsp;
Steve was creative with activities for the kids and
grandkids to do, like axe throwing in the backyard and turning a stock tank
into a pool. He always had glow sticks and popsicles ready to give the
grandkids when they would visit. He loved music and dancing and there would be
family dance nights with music blasting in the living room. On July 2, 1976, he started working for Cross Manufacturing,
Inc. and was looking forward to celebrating his 50th anniversary
this coming July.Survivors include his wife Vicki of Hays, three daughters
Skye Bare (Robert) of Pratt, Erin Kinderknecht (Dr. Benjamin) of Maryville, MO,
and Carly Hawthorne (Jesse Stockwell) of Colorado Springs, CO, five
grandchildren Natalie Noland (Nick), Shawndra Cook (Jacob), Blake Bare, and
Quenton and Isabella Kinderknecht, two great grandchildren Isla Cook and Nevaeh
Noland, his mother-in-law Jean Pfannenstiel Rozell of Pittsburg, TX, a brother
Lee Hawthorne of Otis, and numerous nieces and nephews.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Wynona
Murray, a niece Kathleen Murray, and his father-in-law Lester Pfannenstiel.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday,
February 17, 2026 at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church in Antonino
with Fr. Job Varghese, OFM Cap. Officiating.&nbsp;
Inurnment will follow in the church cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on
Monday, February 16, 2026 at the Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from
9:00 am until service time on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at the church.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Antonino
Cemetery Association or to the Cancer Council of Ellis County.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Steve may be
shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

Steven C. 'Steve' Hawthorne

Thayne Alstin Spresser, age 36, of Hays, Kansas, passed away on
February 2, 2026, at his home in Hays. He was born February 13, 1989, in Colby,
Kansas, to Gregory Paul Spresser and Dana Rae Delehoy.

Thayne attended Hoxie High School, graduating with the Class of
2007. He participated in many sports throughout his school years, with
basketball being his true passion. He was also an accomplished golfer and
enjoyed time at the racetrack, but many will fondly remember him as the
luckiest guy in the casino.

Family was central to Thayne’s life, and he took great pride in
being an uncle. He will be remembered for his great dancing skills, his loyalty
as a friend, and his deep love for dogs.

Thayne worked as a Paintless Dent Removal technician with Spresser
Auto Care.

He is survived by his father, Gregory Spresser (Leslie Smith) of
Hays; his mother, Dana (Tim) Moss of Selden; his significant other, Kiana Kukus
of Hays; and his brothers, Nathan (Leslie) Spresser of Kechi and Gerid
(Chandra) Spresser of Granbury, Texas. He is also survived by his nieces and
nephews, Owen, Harper, Hudson, and Sutton, and his grandparents: Butch and
Arlene Spresser.

He is preceded in death by grandparents: Gerold and Maribeth
Delehoy; and his uncles, Dustin Delehoy and Greg Overlease.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11:00
a.m. at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Cline’s Chapel, 1919 East 22nd
Street, Hays, Kansas 67601. Viewing and visitation will be Friday, February 6,
2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral chapel.

Cremation is under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory. Memorials are suggested to Thayne's family to be designated at a
later date, please make checks payable to Greg Spresser or Dana Moss in care of
the funeral chapel.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770242548401.png" alt="Thayne Alstin Spresser" />
 <figcaption>Thayne Alstin Spresser</figcaption>
 </figure>Thayne Alstin Spresser, age 36, of Hays, Kansas, passed away on
February 2, 2026, at his home in Hays. He was born February 13, 1989, in Colby,
Kansas, to Gregory Paul Spresser and Dana Rae Delehoy.Thayne attended Hoxie High School, graduating with the Class of
2007. He participated in many sports throughout his school years, with
basketball being his true passion. He was also an accomplished golfer and
enjoyed time at the racetrack, but many will fondly remember him as the
luckiest guy in the casino.Family was central to Thayne’s life, and he took great pride in
being an uncle. He will be remembered for his great dancing skills, his loyalty
as a friend, and his deep love for dogs.Thayne worked as a Paintless Dent Removal technician with Spresser
Auto Care.He is survived by his father, Gregory Spresser (Leslie Smith) of
Hays; his mother, Dana (Tim) Moss of Selden; his significant other, Kiana Kukus
of Hays; and his brothers, Nathan (Leslie) Spresser of Kechi and Gerid
(Chandra) Spresser of Granbury, Texas. He is also survived by his nieces and
nephews, Owen, Harper, Hudson, and Sutton, and his grandparents: Butch and
Arlene Spresser.He is preceded in death by grandparents: Gerold and Maribeth
Delehoy; and his uncles, Dustin Delehoy and Greg Overlease.Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11:00
a.m. at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Cline’s Chapel, 1919 East 22nd
Street, Hays, Kansas 67601. Viewing and visitation will be Friday, February 6,
2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral chapel.Cremation is under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and
Crematory. Memorials are suggested to Thayne's family to be designated at a
later date, please make checks payable to Greg Spresser or Dana Moss in care of
the funeral chapel.Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Thayne’s family
on his tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;--

Thayne Alstin Spresser

JoAnn Fleharty’s funeral was postponed. The date for the service is&nbsp;now Saturday, February 21st at 11:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church in Hays

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 on Saturday, February 21st at 11:00 am, 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 was postponed. The date for the service is&nbsp;now Saturday, February 21st at 11:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church in HaysJoAnn 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 on Saturday, February 21st at 11:00 am, 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

Erin Ann
Hughes, 64, of Hays, Kansas, died on February 1st, 2026, at Hays Medical
Center.

Erin was born
Erin Ann McGinnis on June 18th, at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Hays, KS, to
Darrell D. McGinnis and Grace K. Staab. She graduated from Hays High School in
1979 and earned a degree in Early Childhood Education from Fort Hays State
University in 1983. While attending college, she met David B. Hughes, and they
were married on June 16th, 1984 at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in
Hays.&nbsp;

Erin lived her
life as a reflection of God's grace. She was a loving mother of five children,
whom she cherished deeply and guided with patience, wisdom, and unwavering
faith. Her love extended far beyond her own family, with her motherly care
reaching countless others who would also consider her a 'mom'. Her life was
marked by a quiet strength, a gentle spirit, and a heart that embraced all of
God's children without hesitation or judgment.&nbsp;

She was a
teacher for 20 plus years, shaping young lives with kindness, encouragement,
and a steady belief in each child's worth. Her compassion and conviction
extended far beyond the classroom. Erin dedicated herself to mentoring others
walking alongside them with patience and love. She believed deeply in
redemption, restoration, and the power of God's healing grace.

Known as a
fierce prayer warrior, Erin carried others in prayer faithfully and tirelessly.
She was warm, kind, and comforting, with a wisdom that brought peace to those
seeking guidance. Her words were thoughtful. Her presence was calming. Her love
was sincere.

Erin leaves
behind a legacy of faith, service, and unconditional love. Her impact lives on
through her brothers, nieces, nephews, children, grandchildren, life long
friends, and all who were blessed to know her.

Erin was
preceded in death by her parents; and her brother Martin, who died in
childhood.

She is survived
by her husband David Hughes of Hays; brothers Collin and wife Maria Cordoba of
Maize, KS; Sean and husband Stéphane Lescoules of Paris, France; and Patrick
and wife Penny Moss of Hays; sons Martin of Park City, KS; Jeremy and wife
Brittany Deeson of St. Petersburg, FL; daughters Megan and husband Devin
Rohweder of Hays, KS; Jessica of Portland City, OR; and Hannah and husband
Christian "CJ" West of Oakley, KS; honorary daughter Eleasha Bitte of
Hays; and 6 grandchildren: John, Ada, Nora (children of Megan and Devin), Ally,
Chapman (children of Jeremy and Brittany), and Syrus (child of Hannah and CJ).

First viewing
and visitation will be Friday, February 6th, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at
Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel Crematory, 2509 Vine St, Hays.

Second viewing
and visitation will be Saturday, February 7th, 2026 at 09:00 AM, followed by
funeral service at 10:00 am, followed by a meal at 11:00am at Celebration
Community Church - Hays, 5790 230th Ave Hays, Kansas 67601. Following lunch, a
processional caravan will leave for the burial service at the Walnut Grove
Cemetery, Robb Rd, Pleasant Valley Township, KS 67484.

Services in
care of Keithley Funeral Homes, Hays, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770151692442.jpeg" alt="Erin Hughes" />
 <figcaption>Erin Hughes</figcaption>
 </figure>Erin Ann
Hughes, 64, of Hays, Kansas, died on February 1st, 2026, at Hays Medical
Center.Erin was born
Erin Ann McGinnis on June 18th, at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Hays, KS, to
Darrell D. McGinnis and Grace K. Staab. She graduated from Hays High School in
1979 and earned a degree in Early Childhood Education from Fort Hays State
University in 1983. While attending college, she met David B. Hughes, and they
were married on June 16th, 1984 at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in
Hays.&nbsp;Erin lived her
life as a reflection of God's grace. She was a loving mother of five children,
whom she cherished deeply and guided with patience, wisdom, and unwavering
faith. Her love extended far beyond her own family, with her motherly care
reaching countless others who would also consider her a 'mom'. Her life was
marked by a quiet strength, a gentle spirit, and a heart that embraced all of
God's children without hesitation or judgment.&nbsp;She was a
teacher for 20 plus years, shaping young lives with kindness, encouragement,
and a steady belief in each child's worth. Her compassion and conviction
extended far beyond the classroom. Erin dedicated herself to mentoring others
walking alongside them with patience and love. She believed deeply in
redemption, restoration, and the power of God's healing grace.Known as a
fierce prayer warrior, Erin carried others in prayer faithfully and tirelessly.
She was warm, kind, and comforting, with a wisdom that brought peace to those
seeking guidance. Her words were thoughtful. Her presence was calming. Her love
was sincere.Erin leaves
behind a legacy of faith, service, and unconditional love. Her impact lives on
through her brothers, nieces, nephews, children, grandchildren, life long
friends, and all who were blessed to know her.Erin was
preceded in death by her parents; and her brother Martin, who died in
childhood.She is survived
by her husband David Hughes of Hays; brothers Collin and wife Maria Cordoba of
Maize, KS; Sean and husband Stéphane Lescoules of Paris, France; and Patrick
and wife Penny Moss of Hays; sons Martin of Park City, KS; Jeremy and wife
Brittany Deeson of St. Petersburg, FL; daughters Megan and husband Devin
Rohweder of Hays, KS; Jessica of Portland City, OR; and Hannah and husband
Christian "CJ" West of Oakley, KS; honorary daughter Eleasha Bitte of
Hays; and 6 grandchildren: John, Ada, Nora (children of Megan and Devin), Ally,
Chapman (children of Jeremy and Brittany), and Syrus (child of Hannah and CJ).First viewing
and visitation will be Friday, February 6th, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at
Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel Crematory, 2509 Vine St, Hays.Second viewing
and visitation will be Saturday, February 7th, 2026 at 09:00 AM, followed by
funeral service at 10:00 am, followed by a meal at 11:00am at Celebration
Community Church - Hays, 5790 230th Ave Hays, Kansas 67601. Following lunch, a
processional caravan will leave for the burial service at the Walnut Grove
Cemetery, Robb Rd, Pleasant Valley Township, KS 67484.Services in
care of Keithley Funeral Homes, Hays, Kansas.

Erin Hughes

Matthew Aaron “Matt” Markley, age
48, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Tuesday morning, January 27, 2026, at the
University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, after a courageous
six-year battle with cancer.
He was born August 23, 1977, in Hays, Kansas, to Rick Markley and Kimberly
Weigel. Matt was a
1996 graduate of Hays High School.

Matt enjoyed a distinguished career in information technology spanning nearly
two decades. After earning
his Bachelor of Science in Technology Management from Kansas State University
in 2001, he began
his career at Microsoft Corporation in Dallas, Texas, as a Solution Architect
for over five years. He then
advanced to Enterprise Solutions Architect at IBM for over 11 years, where he
spearheaded projects in
cloud migration, IT discovery, and infrastructure management. In his later
years, he held various consulting
positions. He held more than a dozen U.S. patents primarily assigned to IBM,
focusing on IT migration,
cloud infrastructure analysis, and software component management, and he earned
numerous&nbsp;key
IT-related accreditations throughout his career, including in system
administration and architecture.

Matt loved sports and outdoor activities, especially boating, camping, and
riding his motorcycle. He was an
avid hunter and fisherman. His other hobbies included playing the guitar,
drawing, computers and gaming,
traveling, and cheering for the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas State
Wildcats.

Matt is survived by his father, Rick Markley of Hoyt, Kansas; his mother and
stepfather, Kimberly and Terry
Weigel of Hays, Kansas; his three beloved children, Dr. Payton Markley; of
Denver, Colorado, Keaton
Markley; of Tucson, Arizona, and Merrek Markley; of Hays, Kansas; his three
brothers, Eric Markley
(Danielle); of Hays, Kansas, Tyler Weigel (Erin); of Overland Park, Kansas, and
Tanner Weigel (Abby);
of Overland Park, Kansas; his nieces, Kamree Friend (Hayden) and Scarlette
Weigel; his nephews, Shae Markley; Sage Markley; Hudson Weigel; Sterling
Weigel; Shepard Weigel; and Graham Weigel; his great-niece, Fynlee Friend; his
great-nephews, Damian Gager; Baker Friend; and Jonah Friend; his grandparents,
Dennis and Kathy Hamel of Plainville, Kansas; and his many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his son, Aaron Matthew Markley; his stepmother,
Vicki Markley; his uncles, Aaron Markley; Kelly Hamel; and Kyle Hamel; his
aunts Lisa Markley and Michelle Burlison; and his grandparents, Joyce Newell, Arnold 'Buck' and Nona Markley, and Kenneth and Elizabeth 'Betty' Weigel.&nbsp;

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Thursday, February 5, 2026, at
Celebration Community Church, I-70 and Exit 157, Hays, Kansas, with Pastor
Brant Rice, Officiating. Burial will be in the Saint Michael the Archangel
Cemetery, south of Hays, Kansas.

A wake for Matt will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00
p.m. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd,
Hays. Kansas.&nbsp; Visitation will be held at noon on Thursday, February 5,
2026, at Celebration Community Church, immediately prior to the service at 1:00
p.m. a reception will follow from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Smoky Hill Country Club,
3303 Hall Street, Hays, Kansas, to celebrate Matt’s life.

A memorial fund is being established in honor of Matt. In lieu of sending
flowers, please consider donating
to the memorial fund and make checks payable to: Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of
Hays. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770138580067.png" alt="Matthew Aaron 'Matt' Markley" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Aaron 'Matt' Markley</figcaption>
 </figure>Matthew Aaron “Matt” Markley, age
48, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Tuesday morning, January 27, 2026, at the
University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, after a courageous
six-year battle with cancer.
He was born August 23, 1977, in Hays, Kansas, to Rick Markley and Kimberly
Weigel. Matt was a
1996 graduate of Hays High School.Matt enjoyed a distinguished career in information technology spanning nearly
two decades. After earning
his Bachelor of Science in Technology Management from Kansas State University
in 2001, he began
his career at Microsoft Corporation in Dallas, Texas, as a Solution Architect
for over five years. He then
advanced to Enterprise Solutions Architect at IBM for over 11 years, where he
spearheaded projects in
cloud migration, IT discovery, and infrastructure management. In his later
years, he held various consulting
positions. He held more than a dozen U.S. patents primarily assigned to IBM,
focusing on IT migration,
cloud infrastructure analysis, and software component management, and he earned
numerous&nbsp;key
IT-related accreditations throughout his career, including in system
administration and architecture.Matt loved sports and outdoor activities, especially boating, camping, and
riding his motorcycle. He was an
avid hunter and fisherman. His other hobbies included playing the guitar,
drawing, computers and gaming,
traveling, and cheering for the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas State
Wildcats.Matt is survived by his father, Rick Markley of Hoyt, Kansas; his mother and
stepfather, Kimberly and Terry
Weigel of Hays, Kansas; his three beloved children, Dr. Payton Markley; of
Denver, Colorado, Keaton
Markley; of Tucson, Arizona, and Merrek Markley; of Hays, Kansas; his three
brothers, Eric Markley
(Danielle); of Hays, Kansas, Tyler Weigel (Erin); of Overland Park, Kansas, and
Tanner Weigel (Abby);
of Overland Park, Kansas; his nieces, Kamree Friend (Hayden) and Scarlette
Weigel; his nephews, Shae Markley; Sage Markley; Hudson Weigel; Sterling
Weigel; Shepard Weigel; and Graham Weigel; his great-niece, Fynlee Friend; his
great-nephews, Damian Gager; Baker Friend; and Jonah Friend; his grandparents,
Dennis and Kathy Hamel of Plainville, Kansas; and his many aunts, uncles, and cousins.He was preceded in death by his son, Aaron Matthew Markley; his stepmother,
Vicki Markley; his uncles, Aaron Markley; Kelly Hamel; and Kyle Hamel; his
aunts Lisa Markley and Michelle Burlison; and his grandparents, Joyce Newell, Arnold 'Buck' and Nona Markley, and Kenneth and Elizabeth 'Betty' Weigel.&nbsp;Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Thursday, February 5, 2026, at
Celebration Community Church, I-70 and Exit 157, Hays, Kansas, with Pastor
Brant Rice, Officiating. Burial will be in the Saint Michael the Archangel
Cemetery, south of Hays, Kansas.A wake for Matt will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00
p.m. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd,
Hays. Kansas.&nbsp; Visitation will be held at noon on Thursday, February 5,
2026, at Celebration Community Church, immediately prior to the service at 1:00
p.m. a reception will follow from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Smoky Hill Country Club,
3303 Hall Street, Hays, Kansas, to celebrate Matt’s life.A memorial fund is being established in honor of Matt. In lieu of sending
flowers, please consider donating
to the memorial fund and make checks payable to: Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of
Hays. Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or left by
guest book&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Matthew Aaron 'Matt' Markley

&nbsp;Ronald E Surface, passed away quietly at his home on January 5,
2026, at the age of 80.

He was born September 26, 1945, in
McPherson, Kansas to Leroy and Goldie (Vosburg) Surface, graduated from
Hoisington High School and joined the Navy in 1965. He served until 1969
leaving the Navy as a Petty Officer Third Class. He lived in Rush Center for
several years and married Leona Nichol on August 23, 1980.

Ron was co-owner of R&amp;R Chimney
Sweep and was known as the 'Clock Maker' and made beautiful clocks and plaques.
They moved to Ness City where he was Mountain Man Candy salesman, and he worked
for several oilfield companies until he retired in 2017. He continued with his
clocks and plaques as a hobby and small business.

Ron was a kind and generous soul,
always thinking of others. He enjoyed taking part in the St. Patrick’s Day
parade in Rush Center from the beginning as a founding member. He also adopted
families from the Angel Tree at Christmas. He especially loved helping children
and donating to various organizations. He loved animals and had many over the
years, including hunting dogs and house cats. He left behind his cats, Fuzzy
and Socks. Hunting and fishing were his passion, and he was a great fisherman.
No pond was left behind if he had his say! He traveled through many states to
fish.

Ron was preceded in death by his wife,
Leona, brother Leland, brothers-in-law Bob Feck and Charlie Nichol,
sister-in-law Linda Archer, and nephew Yancey Feck.

Survivors include his two sisters,
Shirley Feck and Gayla Bieker along with Leona‘s brothers Gary, Daryl and Ron.
He is also survived by many nieces and nephews along with great nieces and
nephews.

Services will be held on Monday,
February 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ness City,
Kansas. Burial will follow at the Pleasant View Cemetery in Logan, Kansas, at
3:30 p.m., with military honors conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard
and Southwest Kansas Veterans Funeral Honor Guard.

Memorials can be made to the Ness City
Food Bank or to Hospice of the Prairie of Dodge City, Kansas, and mailed to
Hugunin Family Funeral Homes, PO Box 563, Phillipsburg, Kansas, 67661.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770135847284.jpeg" alt="Ronald E Surface" />
 <figcaption>Ronald E Surface</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Ronald E Surface, passed away quietly at his home on January 5,
2026, at the age of 80.He was born September 26, 1945, in
McPherson, Kansas to Leroy and Goldie (Vosburg) Surface, graduated from
Hoisington High School and joined the Navy in 1965. He served until 1969
leaving the Navy as a Petty Officer Third Class. He lived in Rush Center for
several years and married Leona Nichol on August 23, 1980.Ron was co-owner of R&amp;R Chimney
Sweep and was known as the 'Clock Maker' and made beautiful clocks and plaques.
They moved to Ness City where he was Mountain Man Candy salesman, and he worked
for several oilfield companies until he retired in 2017. He continued with his
clocks and plaques as a hobby and small business.Ron was a kind and generous soul,
always thinking of others. He enjoyed taking part in the St. Patrick’s Day
parade in Rush Center from the beginning as a founding member. He also adopted
families from the Angel Tree at Christmas. He especially loved helping children
and donating to various organizations. He loved animals and had many over the
years, including hunting dogs and house cats. He left behind his cats, Fuzzy
and Socks. Hunting and fishing were his passion, and he was a great fisherman.
No pond was left behind if he had his say! He traveled through many states to
fish.Ron was preceded in death by his wife,
Leona, brother Leland, brothers-in-law Bob Feck and Charlie Nichol,
sister-in-law Linda Archer, and nephew Yancey Feck.Survivors include his two sisters,
Shirley Feck and Gayla Bieker along with Leona‘s brothers Gary, Daryl and Ron.
He is also survived by many nieces and nephews along with great nieces and
nephews.Services will be held on Monday,
February 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ness City,
Kansas. Burial will follow at the Pleasant View Cemetery in Logan, Kansas, at
3:30 p.m., with military honors conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard
and Southwest Kansas Veterans Funeral Honor Guard.Memorials can be made to the Ness City
Food Bank or to Hospice of the Prairie of Dodge City, Kansas, and mailed to
Hugunin Family Funeral Homes, PO Box 563, Phillipsburg, Kansas, 67661.

Ronald E Surface

Twyla Mae (Krug) Ehrlich, 84, of Russell, Kansas, died on Friday,
January 30, 2026, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.

Twyla&nbsp; was born February 28, 1941
at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Hays, Kansas to Tillman L. and Wilma (Boger) Krug.


She was an only child and grew up in Russell County on a farm 10 miles
south of Russell.&nbsp; She attended a country
school (Mulberry) from 1st—8th grade which was the same school where her father
once attended and then attended Russell High School and graduated in the Class
of 1958.&nbsp;&nbsp; 

She met, fell in love, and was united in marriage to Dale David Ehrlich
on February 27, 1965, in Russell.&nbsp;&nbsp; From
this union, Twyla and Dale were blessed with 3 children, Thomas, Tori, and
Tami.&nbsp; 

Twyla was baptized in the Lutheran faith as a baby in the Michaelis
Lutheran Church south of Russell in the Sellens Creek area.&nbsp;&nbsp; She attended that church with her parents
until it was combined with the Emanuel Lutheran Church in Hoisington.&nbsp;&nbsp; She was confirmed and a member of this
church until her marriage to Dale and then she transferred to St. John Lutheran
where they were married and became members there together.&nbsp; While at Emanual Lutheran, she was organist
for 10 years and also played for many weddings in the Russell area (city and
rural).&nbsp;&nbsp; She played piano for Sunday morning
Sunday school while her daughters were in Sunday school at St. John.&nbsp; She was a member of the Russell County Saddle
Club and rode in may parades with her father.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Twyla was 1st runner up for queen in the 1961 Prairiesta.&nbsp; She worked as a secretary for RMS and
Director of Elementary Education, Harold R. Elliott for 11 years.&nbsp;&nbsp; Upon her retirement, she took a leave of
absence to begin her family.&nbsp;&nbsp; She
returned to USD 407 as an employee in the RMS kitchen and worked for 36 more
years before retiring after working a total of 47 years for USD 407.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Twyla loved life and her family and lived
each day to its fullest.&nbsp;&nbsp; Family meant
everything to her; including her great grand-pups Giz and Willow.

She couldn’t wait to be a NANA!&nbsp;&nbsp;
Twyla and Dale took pride in their family.&nbsp;&nbsp; Twyla always made sure Dale was included in
as many family events as possible after he went to Wheatland Nursing Home.&nbsp; She even made sure he could attend part of
the wedding of their only grandchild, Halle.

Surviving family include, daughters Tori Hall &amp; husband Roy of
Russell, Kansas and Tami Ehrlich of Manhattan, Kansas; granddaughter Halle
Anderson &amp; husband Colton of Russell, Kansas; great grand-pups Giz and
Willow; niece Gwenna Green and nephew Lionel Green both of Russell,
Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp; She was proceeded in death by
her beloved husband Dale, son Thomas D. Ehrlich, parents, in-laws as well as
sister in-law and brother in-law and many aunts/uncles.

A celebration of Twyla’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday,
February 05, 2026, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the St. John Lutheran
Cemetery in Russell.&nbsp; 

Visitation will be
from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. on Wednesday, February 04, 2026 at the mortuary, with
family greeting guest from 5 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. Wednesday evening.&nbsp; Memorials may be given to the St. John
Lutheran Church and sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell,
Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770055816350.jpeg" alt="Twyla Mae (Krug) Ehrlich" />
 <figcaption>Twyla Mae (Krug) Ehrlich</figcaption>
 </figure>Twyla Mae (Krug) Ehrlich, 84, of Russell, Kansas, died on Friday,
January 30, 2026, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.Twyla&nbsp; was born February 28, 1941
at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Hays, Kansas to Tillman L. and Wilma (Boger) Krug.
She was an only child and grew up in Russell County on a farm 10 miles
south of Russell.&nbsp; She attended a country
school (Mulberry) from 1st—8th grade which was the same school where her father
once attended and then attended Russell High School and graduated in the Class
of 1958.&nbsp;&nbsp; She met, fell in love, and was united in marriage to Dale David Ehrlich
on February 27, 1965, in Russell.&nbsp;&nbsp; From
this union, Twyla and Dale were blessed with 3 children, Thomas, Tori, and
Tami.&nbsp; Twyla was baptized in the Lutheran faith as a baby in the Michaelis
Lutheran Church south of Russell in the Sellens Creek area.&nbsp;&nbsp; She attended that church with her parents
until it was combined with the Emanuel Lutheran Church in Hoisington.&nbsp;&nbsp; She was confirmed and a member of this
church until her marriage to Dale and then she transferred to St. John Lutheran
where they were married and became members there together.&nbsp; While at Emanual Lutheran, she was organist
for 10 years and also played for many weddings in the Russell area (city and
rural).&nbsp;&nbsp; She played piano for Sunday morning
Sunday school while her daughters were in Sunday school at St. John.&nbsp; She was a member of the Russell County Saddle
Club and rode in may parades with her father.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Twyla was 1st runner up for queen in the 1961 Prairiesta.&nbsp; She worked as a secretary for RMS and
Director of Elementary Education, Harold R. Elliott for 11 years.&nbsp;&nbsp; Upon her retirement, she took a leave of
absence to begin her family.&nbsp;&nbsp; She
returned to USD 407 as an employee in the RMS kitchen and worked for 36 more
years before retiring after working a total of 47 years for USD 407.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Twyla loved life and her family and lived
each day to its fullest.&nbsp;&nbsp; Family meant
everything to her; including her great grand-pups Giz and Willow.She couldn’t wait to be a NANA!&nbsp;&nbsp;
Twyla and Dale took pride in their family.&nbsp;&nbsp; Twyla always made sure Dale was included in
as many family events as possible after he went to Wheatland Nursing Home.&nbsp; She even made sure he could attend part of
the wedding of their only grandchild, Halle.Surviving family include, daughters Tori Hall &amp; husband Roy of
Russell, Kansas and Tami Ehrlich of Manhattan, Kansas; granddaughter Halle
Anderson &amp; husband Colton of Russell, Kansas; great grand-pups Giz and
Willow; niece Gwenna Green and nephew Lionel Green both of Russell,
Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp; She was proceeded in death by
her beloved husband Dale, son Thomas D. Ehrlich, parents, in-laws as well as
sister in-law and brother in-law and many aunts/uncles.A celebration of Twyla’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday,
February 05, 2026, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the St. John Lutheran
Cemetery in Russell.&nbsp; Visitation will be
from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. on Wednesday, February 04, 2026 at the mortuary, with
family greeting guest from 5 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. Wednesday evening.&nbsp; Memorials may be given to the St. John
Lutheran Church and sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell,
Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Twyla Mae (Krug) Ehrlich

Hellen Louise James, age 89, of Ellis, Kansas passed away Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at the Good Samaritan Center, Ellis. She was born February 21, 1936 in Lovell, Oklahoma to Joseph Lee and Ethel Mae (Price) Brown. 

On October 23, 1953 she married Donald L. Hodges in Lyons, Kansas. Together they had four children, Diana, Donna, Denise and Donald II. He preceded her in death on August 5, 1972. 

Hellen was a daycare provider for many years. She particularly enjoyed her time with infants and the extra care she could spend on them. She was able to travel throughout the United States and the world including the Panama Canal, and Alaska. As some of her fondest trips. 

Hellen loved to bake pies, enjoyed singing and will be remembered as a hard worker and loving mother and grandmother. 

She is survived by three daughters, Diana Kroeger of Ellis and her fiancé Pat Martin, Donna Honas and husband Verlin of Ellis and Denise Schwab and husband Rick of Norton; son-in-law, Tim Kroeger of Ellis; grandchildren, Tim (Aimee) Kroeger, Matt (Rachael) Kroeger, Jordan Kroeger, Amanda (Fiance, Todd Ashbaugh) Conness and Amber (Josh) Castaneda; as well as 13 great grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a son, Donald L. Hodges II and a sister, Georgia Mae Logsdon. 

Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory-Ellis Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS 67637. Burial will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Ellis.

 Visitation will be Monday 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM and Tuesday 10:00 AM all at the funeral chapel. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Ellis Public Library or HaysMed Hospice. Please share memories on Hellen’s tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770052231557.png" alt="Hellen Louise James" />
 <figcaption>Hellen Louise James</figcaption>
 </figure>Hellen Louise James, age 89, of Ellis, Kansas passed away Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at the Good Samaritan Center, Ellis. She was born February 21, 1936 in Lovell, Oklahoma to Joseph Lee and Ethel Mae (Price) Brown. On October 23, 1953 she married Donald L. Hodges in Lyons, Kansas. Together they had four children, Diana, Donna, Denise and Donald II. He preceded her in death on August 5, 1972. Hellen was a daycare provider for many years. She particularly enjoyed her time with infants and the extra care she could spend on them. She was able to travel throughout the United States and the world including the Panama Canal, and Alaska. As some of her fondest trips. Hellen loved to bake pies, enjoyed singing and will be remembered as a hard worker and loving mother and grandmother. She is survived by three daughters, Diana Kroeger of Ellis and her fiancé Pat Martin, Donna Honas and husband Verlin of Ellis and Denise Schwab and husband Rick of Norton; son-in-law, Tim Kroeger of Ellis; grandchildren, Tim (Aimee) Kroeger, Matt (Rachael) Kroeger, Jordan Kroeger, Amanda (Fiance, Todd Ashbaugh) Conness and Amber (Josh) Castaneda; as well as 13 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a son, Donald L. Hodges II and a sister, Georgia Mae Logsdon. Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory-Ellis Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS 67637. Burial will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Ellis. Visitation will be Monday 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM and Tuesday 10:00 AM all at the funeral chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Ellis Public Library or HaysMed Hospice. Please share memories on Hellen’s tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Hellen Louise James

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Cory
Michael Eberle, age 51, of Ellis, Kansas, passed away Sunday morning, January
25, 2026, at his home after a short battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral
Sclerosis). He was born April 25, 1974, in Trego County, the beloved son of Ken
and Sherry Eberle.



Cory was a lifelong resident of Ellis, Kansas, where he attended Washington
Grade School and Ellis High School. After graduating, he attended Fort Hays
State University in Hays, Kansas, earning a Bachelor of Administration (BBA)
degree with a major in Accounting. It was at Fort Hays State University that he
met his wife, Michele Weisenberger. They were married on November 1, 1997, at
St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellis, Kansas.



Upon graduation, Cory began his professional career as an accountant at
Lindburg &amp; Vogel. He later joined Sizewise, a medical equipment
manufacturer, where he spent the majority of his career as the Chief Financial
Officer. Following the acquisition of Sizewise by Agiliti Health, Inc., Cory
assumed the role of Vice President of Finance. He later served as Chief
Financial Officer for Key Ventures until his health concerns required his
retirement.



Cory found great joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. He loved spending
time at Cedar Bluff Lake, taking pride in his classic cars, and, most of all,
being with his family. His favorite word was 'accountable,' a value
he lived by through his strong faith, dedication to his family, and unwavering
work ethic. Cory generously shared his time and talents with the community,
serving as Treasurer of the Community Foundation of Ellis, as a Board Member of
the Ellis Food Box program, and as a Board Member and Past Chair of Grow Hays
Board of Directors in Hays, Kansas. His commitment to service reflected both
his character and his deep care for others.



Cory is survived and missed by his loving wife Michele of Ellis and his two
children, Cody and Macy, both of Hays. Forever cherished and remembered by his
loving parents, Ken and Sherry Eberle; his brother, Kyle Eberle and his wife,
Jolene of Spearville, KS; his nephew, Spencer Eberle and his wife, Jessica and
great-niece, Tatum, all of Spearville, KS. He also leaves behind his
grandmother, Catherine Eberle of Wakeeney, KS; his In-Laws, Orvile and Marcine
Gorman of Augusta, KS; four brothers-in-law, Joe Weisenberger of Avondale, AZ,
Jay and Kelli Gorman of Ulysses, KS, Chris and Kristi Gorman of Lacey, WA, and
Linn and Penny Gorman of Log Lane Village, CO.; as well as numerous aunts,
uncles, cousins, and wonderful friends.



A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 5,
2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Ellis, KS. Inurnment will follow in the
church cemetery. A rosary service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday before
the funeral mass.



A Celebration of Life and visitation with the family to honor Cory will be held
at 1:00 – 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Knights of Columbus
Hall, Ellis, KS.



In place of flowers and plants, memorial contributions are suggested to the
Community Foundation of Ellis (Ellis, KS).


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

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes - Ellis Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS
67637

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769782044576.jpeg" alt="Cory Michael Eberle" />
 <figcaption>Cory Michael Eberle</figcaption>
 </figure>Cory
Michael Eberle, age 51, of Ellis, Kansas, passed away Sunday morning, January
25, 2026, at his home after a short battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral
Sclerosis). He was born April 25, 1974, in Trego County, the beloved son of Ken
and Sherry Eberle.

Cory was a lifelong resident of Ellis, Kansas, where he attended Washington
Grade School and Ellis High School. After graduating, he attended Fort Hays
State University in Hays, Kansas, earning a Bachelor of Administration (BBA)
degree with a major in Accounting. It was at Fort Hays State University that he
met his wife, Michele Weisenberger. They were married on November 1, 1997, at
St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellis, Kansas.

Upon graduation, Cory began his professional career as an accountant at
Lindburg &amp; Vogel. He later joined Sizewise, a medical equipment
manufacturer, where he spent the majority of his career as the Chief Financial
Officer. Following the acquisition of Sizewise by Agiliti Health, Inc., Cory
assumed the role of Vice President of Finance. He later served as Chief
Financial Officer for Key Ventures until his health concerns required his
retirement.

Cory found great joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. He loved spending
time at Cedar Bluff Lake, taking pride in his classic cars, and, most of all,
being with his family. His favorite word was 'accountable,' a value
he lived by through his strong faith, dedication to his family, and unwavering
work ethic. Cory generously shared his time and talents with the community,
serving as Treasurer of the Community Foundation of Ellis, as a Board Member of
the Ellis Food Box program, and as a Board Member and Past Chair of Grow Hays
Board of Directors in Hays, Kansas. His commitment to service reflected both
his character and his deep care for others.

Cory is survived and missed by his loving wife Michele of Ellis and his two
children, Cody and Macy, both of Hays. Forever cherished and remembered by his
loving parents, Ken and Sherry Eberle; his brother, Kyle Eberle and his wife,
Jolene of Spearville, KS; his nephew, Spencer Eberle and his wife, Jessica and
great-niece, Tatum, all of Spearville, KS. He also leaves behind his
grandmother, Catherine Eberle of Wakeeney, KS; his In-Laws, Orvile and Marcine
Gorman of Augusta, KS; four brothers-in-law, Joe Weisenberger of Avondale, AZ,
Jay and Kelli Gorman of Ulysses, KS, Chris and Kristi Gorman of Lacey, WA, and
Linn and Penny Gorman of Log Lane Village, CO.; as well as numerous aunts,
uncles, cousins, and wonderful friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 5,
2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Ellis, KS. Inurnment will follow in the
church cemetery. A rosary service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday before
the funeral mass.

A Celebration of Life and visitation with the family to honor Cory will be held
at 1:00 – 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Knights of Columbus
Hall, Ellis, KS.

In place of flowers and plants, memorial contributions are suggested to the
Community Foundation of Ellis (Ellis, KS).

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

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes - Ellis Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS
67637

Cory Michael Eberle

Allan Lee Thaemert,
87 of Manhattan, Kansas, died on Monday, January 26, 2026, at the Via Christi
Village in Manhattan.

Allan was born on
April 09, 1938, in Sylvan Grove, KS, the son of Erwin and Viola (Thaete)
Thaemert.&nbsp; He grew up on the family farm
in rural Sylvan Grove, KS where he spent many years helping with the farming
and ranching. He graduated from Sylvan Grove High School in the class of
1956.&nbsp; Allan was an outstanding athlete
at Sylvan Grove where he excelled in 4 sports including baseball, basketball,
football, and track.&nbsp; After high school
he graduated from Kansas State University achieving his bachelor’s degree in
education and eventually worked to achieve his master’s degree from
Southwestern State Teacher’s College in Weatherford, Oklahoma.&nbsp; While attending Kansas State, he was a
letterman on the baseball team where he started at shortstop for the
Wildcats.&nbsp; He was united in marriage to
Mary Ann Reese on May 31, 1959, at the rural Immanuel Lutheran Church near
Laton, KS.&nbsp; Allan and Mary Ann first met
through their local Lutheran Church’s high school youth group functions
('Walther League').&nbsp; From this union Allan
and Mary Ann were blessed with five children: Troy, Todd, Becky, Tom and James.
They raised their children in the Lutheran faith and provided them with a firm
foundation of God’s grace through Christ.&nbsp;
They settled in Manhattan, KS where Allan taught math and drivers
education at Manhattan High School for over 30 years.&nbsp; During this time Allan enjoyed his children’s
activities and coached several of the children’s little league teams.&nbsp; Upon his retirement in 1994 Allan and Mary
Ann moved back to the Reese family farm located north of Natoma.&nbsp; He enjoyed the rural setting as well as
actively maintaining the homestead.&nbsp; Many
enjoyable years were spent hosting his children and grandchildren for frequent
family gatherings at 'The Farm”'&nbsp; Allan
was a member of Lutherans for Life and proud Kansas State University
Alumni.&nbsp; He was able to follow K-state
football quite closely as he worked on the football chain gang for 33
years.&nbsp; He loved gardening, the county
fair, the circus, antiques, auctions, arrowhead hunting, war history, watching
westerns.

Surviving family
include his son Todd Thaemert of Manhattan, KS, daughter Becky Pancost (Jon) of
Lucas, KS, son Tom Thaemert (Krista) of Manhattan, KS, son James Thaemert of
Manhattan, KS; brothers Ravon Thaemert (Shirley) of Denver, CO and Leon
Thaemert (Donna) of Colorado Springs, CO&nbsp;
and 5 grandchildren:&nbsp; Savannah
Awbrey (Nate), Reese Thaemert (Marissa), Sophie, Harlan, and Lily Pancost.

He was preceded in
death by his parents, wife Mary Ann, and son Troy Thaemert.

A celebration of
Allan’s life will be held at 11 A.M. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the
Peace Lutheran Church in Natoma, Kansas.&nbsp;
Viewing will begin at 10 A.M. on Saturday at the church with family
greeting guests from 10 A.M. to service time.&nbsp;
Burial will follow at the North Lutheran Cemetery in rural north
Natoma.&nbsp; The family invites family and
friends to join them at the church for lunch immediately following the graveside
service.&nbsp; Memorials can be made to the
Peace Lutheran Church and sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell,
Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769627815933.jpeg" alt="Allan Lee Thaemert" />
 <figcaption>Allan Lee Thaemert</figcaption>
 </figure>Allan Lee Thaemert,
87 of Manhattan, Kansas, died on Monday, January 26, 2026, at the Via Christi
Village in Manhattan.Allan was born on
April 09, 1938, in Sylvan Grove, KS, the son of Erwin and Viola (Thaete)
Thaemert.&nbsp; He grew up on the family farm
in rural Sylvan Grove, KS where he spent many years helping with the farming
and ranching. He graduated from Sylvan Grove High School in the class of
1956.&nbsp; Allan was an outstanding athlete
at Sylvan Grove where he excelled in 4 sports including baseball, basketball,
football, and track.&nbsp; After high school
he graduated from Kansas State University achieving his bachelor’s degree in
education and eventually worked to achieve his master’s degree from
Southwestern State Teacher’s College in Weatherford, Oklahoma.&nbsp; While attending Kansas State, he was a
letterman on the baseball team where he started at shortstop for the
Wildcats.&nbsp; He was united in marriage to
Mary Ann Reese on May 31, 1959, at the rural Immanuel Lutheran Church near
Laton, KS.&nbsp; Allan and Mary Ann first met
through their local Lutheran Church’s high school youth group functions
('Walther League').&nbsp; From this union Allan
and Mary Ann were blessed with five children: Troy, Todd, Becky, Tom and James.
They raised their children in the Lutheran faith and provided them with a firm
foundation of God’s grace through Christ.&nbsp;
They settled in Manhattan, KS where Allan taught math and drivers
education at Manhattan High School for over 30 years.&nbsp; During this time Allan enjoyed his children’s
activities and coached several of the children’s little league teams.&nbsp; Upon his retirement in 1994 Allan and Mary
Ann moved back to the Reese family farm located north of Natoma.&nbsp; He enjoyed the rural setting as well as
actively maintaining the homestead.&nbsp; Many
enjoyable years were spent hosting his children and grandchildren for frequent
family gatherings at 'The Farm”'&nbsp; Allan
was a member of Lutherans for Life and proud Kansas State University
Alumni.&nbsp; He was able to follow K-state
football quite closely as he worked on the football chain gang for 33
years.&nbsp; He loved gardening, the county
fair, the circus, antiques, auctions, arrowhead hunting, war history, watching
westerns.Surviving family
include his son Todd Thaemert of Manhattan, KS, daughter Becky Pancost (Jon) of
Lucas, KS, son Tom Thaemert (Krista) of Manhattan, KS, son James Thaemert of
Manhattan, KS; brothers Ravon Thaemert (Shirley) of Denver, CO and Leon
Thaemert (Donna) of Colorado Springs, CO&nbsp;
and 5 grandchildren:&nbsp; Savannah
Awbrey (Nate), Reese Thaemert (Marissa), Sophie, Harlan, and Lily Pancost.He was preceded in
death by his parents, wife Mary Ann, and son Troy Thaemert.A celebration of
Allan’s life will be held at 11 A.M. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the
Peace Lutheran Church in Natoma, Kansas.&nbsp;
Viewing will begin at 10 A.M. on Saturday at the church with family
greeting guests from 10 A.M. to service time.&nbsp;
Burial will follow at the North Lutheran Cemetery in rural north
Natoma.&nbsp; The family invites family and
friends to join them at the church for lunch immediately following the graveside
service.&nbsp; Memorials can be made to the
Peace Lutheran Church and sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell,
Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Allan Lee Thaemert

Patricia
Ann 'Wooley' Wooldridge, age 79, of Hays, Kansas passed away Monday,
January 26, 2026 at HaysMed.



Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Friday, January 30, 2025 at St. Joseph's
Catholic Church in Hays. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be Thursday, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM and Friday 9:00 AM-9:30 AM all
at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS
67601. 

A combined parish vigil and rosary will be 7:00 PM Thursday at Brock's
Chapel.

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


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

A complete obituary is pending.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769576442168.png" alt="Patricia Ann 'Wooley' Wooldridge" />
 <figcaption>Patricia Ann 'Wooley' Wooldridge</figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia
Ann 'Wooley' Wooldridge, age 79, of Hays, Kansas passed away Monday,
January 26, 2026 at HaysMed.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Friday, January 30, 2025 at St. Joseph's
Catholic Church in Hays. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be Thursday, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM and Friday 9:00 AM-9:30 AM all
at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS
67601. A combined parish vigil and rosary will be 7:00 PM Thursday at Brock's
Chapel.

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

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

A complete obituary is pending.

Patricia Ann 'Wooley' Wooldridge

Lloyd 'Elvin' Edgett, 80, of Norton, Kansas
passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Trego County Lemke
Memorial Hospital Long Term Care, WaKeeney, Kansas, after a courageous battle
with cancer.

Elvin was born in Norton on October 4,1945 to
Ivan and Fern (Livingood) Edgett.&nbsp; Upon her divorce, Elvin and Fern lived
in Norton with his Grandmother Maude (Bartels) Livingood and Uncle Wayne
Livingood. Fern later married Harold Yearka where Elvin lived until graduation
in 1965 from Huntley High School, Huntley, NE. Elvin’s home was always in
Norton, spending time with his Grandmother and Uncle, and he spent every chance
he had there. These times were where he learned his love for pets, vehicles and
motorcycles. Elvin was proud of the fact he could say he still had his first
car and motorcycle!! Elvin had
a knack for tinkering and mastered the art of scrapping and recycling and more
than likely where he earned his CB radio call of 'Tin Collector.'

Elvin enlisted in the United States Army. He
attended the United States Army Engineer School in Fort Leonard Wood, MO
earning certificates in Gas Turbine and Generator Repair and Continental I
Precise Power Generation Courses. These certifications allowed him to continue
his military service in Germany instead of Vietnam. Upon his return, he worked
at the Hilltop Texaco Service Station for Gilbert (Gil) Courtain.

In 1970, a young lady caught his eye each day
on her way to or from work as she passed the Hilltop Texaco Gas Station. One
day she stopped to get gas, and asked him to go on a date.&nbsp; After the
third date he asked, 'so when are we going to get married'&nbsp; Pam wanted a
long engagement so Elvin must have decided that good things come to those who
wait and after eighteen long months, he married the love of his life on
September 12, 1971, in Norton, KS.&nbsp; Pam passed away on September 14, 2018,
after 47 blessed years of marriage. 

Elvin was hired by Norton County Road and
Bridge in June 1972 as a mechanic.&nbsp; He took his job very seriously while
working on all kinds of equipment.&nbsp; Because of his attention to detail, he
eventually became Shop Foreman, retiring in September 2010.&nbsp; 

On September 6, 1972, Pam and Elvin welcomed
Stacie Lynn into this world.&nbsp; Stacie was wrapped around his finger the
minute she was born. Elvin’s love language wasn’t flashy. It was subtle and
probably to many unnoticed.&nbsp; He was the person in the corner supporting,
challenging, showing, teasing and watching. As an only child, Stacie always had
friends over. Elvin learned quickly it was best to go 'hide and tinker' outside
because sometimes there could be an entire grade of girls for slumber parties,
even entire classes or the entire junior high when dances were held across the street in the
County Shop parking lot on warm summer nights. Regardless, he was watching and
knew every friend that was there making sure they were always safe. Elvin
teased Stacie’s friends and many of them were as special to him as they were to
Stacie. Gayleen (Babcock) Chickering, was one of those 'special' friends that
became a true sister that Elvin welcomed as
his own daughter.&nbsp; 

Pam and Elvin created a marriage many wished
and dreamed of and were each other’s biggest advocates in the good times and
bad, especially in those final years when Pam’s health declined.&nbsp; They
enjoyed traveling all across the United States in Elvin’s 1954 Kaiser
Manhattan, sightseeing and attending Kaiser Frazer car meets with Gil &amp; Ila
Courtain, Stacie, Carter, Cooper and the nieces and nephews.&nbsp; 

Elvin’s hobbies centered around the
automotive industry. Ford and Kaiser were his trade and other makes were dirty
words in his mind. He enjoyed rebuilding engines; tinkering with engines and
vehicles; and collecting engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, tires,
rims, hubcaps; and about any other part you can imagine. He had earned and
achieved the gold star in collecting!&nbsp; Elvin was one of the first people
thought of, if they needed a Ford part or help with an older Fords. His catch
was he wouldn’t take any money. He wanted to trade for something and boy did he
do that well. Plus, mowing and trimming were something Elvin enjoyed. He had a knack at bringing lawn
mowers and trimmers back to life. 

Elvin became a grandpa when his grandsons,
Carter (2002) and Cooper (2005) were born. Elvin loved those two grandsons with
all that was in him. Again, showing his love by teasing them. He wasn’t always
the best at telling them he loved them but he would get that grin, when they
shared about their mowing business or when they told him they’d bought their
first vehicles (even though they didn’t pick Fords to start with). After Pam
passed away, he was the one supporting the boys in all they did. Two granddaughters
were also brought into Elvin’s family when Gayleen and Clay Chickering welcomed
Addison and Morgan. Elvin had the best with two grandsons and two
granddaughters.

He was a member of the Kaiser Frazer Owners
Club International, Sunflower Pioneer Power Association and the Butterfield
Trail Antique Auto Club.

Survivors include his daughter, Stacie
Edgett-Minson (Eric Kinderknecht), WaKeeney, KS; grandsons, Carter (Bailey)
Minson, Mechanicsburg, PA &amp; Cooper Minson, WaKeeney, KS; sister, Linda
(Cal) Fritz, Hildreth, NE; cousin, Jennifer (Adrian) Wiltshire, Lyndhurst,
England; brother-in-law, John Lindenman, Morland, KS; nieces, Tammy (Roger)
VanLoenen and family, Hill City, KS, Amaryah (Skyler) Jenkins and family, Grand
Island, NE, Carina Fritz, Hildreth, NE; and nephews, Shawn (Melissa) Lindenman
and family, Morland, KS, Cory (Beth) Lindenman and family, Winfield, KS, Brent
Lindenman family, and Gayleen (Clay) Chickering, Addison and Morgan, Glenwood,
IA; step-siblings, Karen Edgett and Kelvin Edgett.&nbsp; 

Elvin is preceded in death by&nbsp;his wife,
Pamela (Corns) Edgett; parents, Ivan Edgett and Fern (Harold) Yearka; brother,
Lynn Yearka; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kenneth &amp; Geraldine Corns;
brother-in-law, David Corns; sister-in-law, Deborah (Corns) Lindenman; uncles,
Wayne Livingood and Neil Livingood; grandparents, Perry &amp; Maude Livingood;
William and Cleo Edgett; friends and other
relatives. 

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am
Friday, January 30, 2026, at the Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS.
Burial with military honors will follow in the Norton Cemetery. Visitation will
be from 5-7:00 pm Thursday, January 29 also at the funeral home. In lieu of
flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions may be made to the
Elvin Edgett Memorial fund and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215
W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.plumergobber.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExa211NXAwN2JIblhXeUw3N3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5tY6SWr9Xkn1E6cMS8keL1z-YLgt8Mu9UUdOiOB1W_l9qZpH19NTTvsATlTw_aem_u0eDYVkwmX05xsf4rG8Gtg">www.plumergobber.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769546035421.jpeg" alt="Lloyd 'Elvin' Edgett" />
 <figcaption>Lloyd 'Elvin' Edgett</figcaption>
 </figure>Lloyd 'Elvin' Edgett, 80, of Norton, Kansas
passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Trego County Lemke
Memorial Hospital Long Term Care, WaKeeney, Kansas, after a courageous battle
with cancer.Elvin was born in Norton on October 4,1945 to
Ivan and Fern (Livingood) Edgett.&nbsp; Upon her divorce, Elvin and Fern lived
in Norton with his Grandmother Maude (Bartels) Livingood and Uncle Wayne
Livingood. Fern later married Harold Yearka where Elvin lived until graduation
in 1965 from Huntley High School, Huntley, NE. Elvin’s home was always in
Norton, spending time with his Grandmother and Uncle, and he spent every chance
he had there. These times were where he learned his love for pets, vehicles and
motorcycles. Elvin was proud of the fact he could say he still had his first
car and motorcycle!! Elvin had
a knack for tinkering and mastered the art of scrapping and recycling and more
than likely where he earned his CB radio call of 'Tin Collector.'Elvin enlisted in the United States Army. He
attended the United States Army Engineer School in Fort Leonard Wood, MO
earning certificates in Gas Turbine and Generator Repair and Continental I
Precise Power Generation Courses. These certifications allowed him to continue
his military service in Germany instead of Vietnam. Upon his return, he worked
at the Hilltop Texaco Service Station for Gilbert (Gil) Courtain.In 1970, a young lady caught his eye each day
on her way to or from work as she passed the Hilltop Texaco Gas Station. One
day she stopped to get gas, and asked him to go on a date.&nbsp; After the
third date he asked, 'so when are we going to get married'&nbsp; Pam wanted a
long engagement so Elvin must have decided that good things come to those who
wait and after eighteen long months, he married the love of his life on
September 12, 1971, in Norton, KS.&nbsp; Pam passed away on September 14, 2018,
after 47 blessed years of marriage. Elvin was hired by Norton County Road and
Bridge in June 1972 as a mechanic.&nbsp; He took his job very seriously while
working on all kinds of equipment.&nbsp; Because of his attention to detail, he
eventually became Shop Foreman, retiring in September 2010.&nbsp; On September 6, 1972, Pam and Elvin welcomed
Stacie Lynn into this world.&nbsp; Stacie was wrapped around his finger the
minute she was born. Elvin’s love language wasn’t flashy. It was subtle and
probably to many unnoticed.&nbsp; He was the person in the corner supporting,
challenging, showing, teasing and watching. As an only child, Stacie always had
friends over. Elvin learned quickly it was best to go 'hide and tinker' outside
because sometimes there could be an entire grade of girls for slumber parties,
even entire classes or the entire junior high when dances were held across the street in the
County Shop parking lot on warm summer nights. Regardless, he was watching and
knew every friend that was there making sure they were always safe. Elvin
teased Stacie’s friends and many of them were as special to him as they were to
Stacie. Gayleen (Babcock) Chickering, was one of those 'special' friends that
became a true sister that Elvin welcomed as
his own daughter.&nbsp; Pam and Elvin created a marriage many wished
and dreamed of and were each other’s biggest advocates in the good times and
bad, especially in those final years when Pam’s health declined.&nbsp; They
enjoyed traveling all across the United States in Elvin’s 1954 Kaiser
Manhattan, sightseeing and attending Kaiser Frazer car meets with Gil &amp; Ila
Courtain, Stacie, Carter, Cooper and the nieces and nephews.&nbsp; Elvin’s hobbies centered around the
automotive industry. Ford and Kaiser were his trade and other makes were dirty
words in his mind. He enjoyed rebuilding engines; tinkering with engines and
vehicles; and collecting engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, tires,
rims, hubcaps; and about any other part you can imagine. He had earned and
achieved the gold star in collecting!&nbsp; Elvin was one of the first people
thought of, if they needed a Ford part or help with an older Fords. His catch
was he wouldn’t take any money. He wanted to trade for something and boy did he
do that well. Plus, mowing and trimming were something Elvin enjoyed. He had a knack at bringing lawn
mowers and trimmers back to life. Elvin became a grandpa when his grandsons,
Carter (2002) and Cooper (2005) were born. Elvin loved those two grandsons with
all that was in him. Again, showing his love by teasing them. He wasn’t always
the best at telling them he loved them but he would get that grin, when they
shared about their mowing business or when they told him they’d bought their
first vehicles (even though they didn’t pick Fords to start with). After Pam
passed away, he was the one supporting the boys in all they did. Two granddaughters
were also brought into Elvin’s family when Gayleen and Clay Chickering welcomed
Addison and Morgan. Elvin had the best with two grandsons and two
granddaughters.He was a member of the Kaiser Frazer Owners
Club International, Sunflower Pioneer Power Association and the Butterfield
Trail Antique Auto Club.Survivors include his daughter, Stacie
Edgett-Minson (Eric Kinderknecht), WaKeeney, KS; grandsons, Carter (Bailey)
Minson, Mechanicsburg, PA &amp; Cooper Minson, WaKeeney, KS; sister, Linda
(Cal) Fritz, Hildreth, NE; cousin, Jennifer (Adrian) Wiltshire, Lyndhurst,
England; brother-in-law, John Lindenman, Morland, KS; nieces, Tammy (Roger)
VanLoenen and family, Hill City, KS, Amaryah (Skyler) Jenkins and family, Grand
Island, NE, Carina Fritz, Hildreth, NE; and nephews, Shawn (Melissa) Lindenman
and family, Morland, KS, Cory (Beth) Lindenman and family, Winfield, KS, Brent
Lindenman family, and Gayleen (Clay) Chickering, Addison and Morgan, Glenwood,
IA; step-siblings, Karen Edgett and Kelvin Edgett.&nbsp; Elvin is preceded in death by&nbsp;his wife,
Pamela (Corns) Edgett; parents, Ivan Edgett and Fern (Harold) Yearka; brother,
Lynn Yearka; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kenneth &amp; Geraldine Corns;
brother-in-law, David Corns; sister-in-law, Deborah (Corns) Lindenman; uncles,
Wayne Livingood and Neil Livingood; grandparents, Perry &amp; Maude Livingood;
William and Cleo Edgett; friends and other
relatives. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am
Friday, January 30, 2026, at the Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home in Norton, KS.
Burial with military honors will follow in the Norton Cemetery. Visitation will
be from 5-7:00 pm Thursday, January 29 also at the funeral home. In lieu of
flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions may be made to the
Elvin Edgett Memorial fund and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215
W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.plumergobber.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExa211NXAwN2JIblhXeUw3N3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5tY6SWr9Xkn1E6cMS8keL1z-YLgt8Mu9UUdOiOB1W_l9qZpH19NTTvsATlTw_aem_u0eDYVkwmX05xsf4rG8Gtg">www.plumergobber.com</a>

Lloyd 'Elvin' Edgett

Norbert
Fisher, age 76 of Ellis, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Via
Christi Village - Hays. He was born on August 11, 1949, in Hays to George and
Adeline (Haas) Fisher.


Norbert graduated from Ellis High School in 1968. In January of 1970, he was
inducted into the US Army serving his country in Vietnam. After his service in
the Army, he returned to Ellis and married Sherry (Armbrister) in 1973 at
Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis. Sherry preceded him in death on November 9,
2025.



His career was building bridges as a crane operator with King Construction of
Hesston. He was also a lifelong farmer, starting with on his parents’ farm
south of Ellis and continuing with Sherry’s parents’ farm north of town.
Norbert was also a lifetime member of the Ellis VFW and forever a fan of the
K-State Wildcats.



Survivors include his daughters; Renee Fisher of Scottsdale, Arizona and
Melissa Fisher of Denver, Colorado; brothers, Marvin Fisher (Kay) of Hays and
George Fisher Jr (Debbie) of North Carolina; sisters, Lillian Bongartz (George)
of Ellis and Charlene Staab (Kenny) of Hays; a sister-in-law, Connie Fisher;
and three grandchildren, Lainey, Oliver and Evie.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sherry; two brothers, Ronnie
and Kenny Fisher as well as two sisters, LouAnn Dinkel and Joan Fisher.



Memorial&nbsp; Services will be Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Keithley
Funeral Homes and Crematory - Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 East 17th Street
Ellis, Kansas 67637.



Inurnment with Military Honors, will follow the services in the Mt. Hope
Cemetery - Ellis.

Memorials are suggested to: VFW Post 9139 - Ellis, Kansas in care of the
funeral chapel.


Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Norbert's family on his
tribute page via: <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769532149868.png" alt="Norbert Fisher" />
 <figcaption>Norbert Fisher</figcaption>
 </figure>Norbert
Fisher, age 76 of Ellis, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Via
Christi Village - Hays. He was born on August 11, 1949, in Hays to George and
Adeline (Haas) Fisher.
Norbert graduated from Ellis High School in 1968. In January of 1970, he was
inducted into the US Army serving his country in Vietnam. After his service in
the Army, he returned to Ellis and married Sherry (Armbrister) in 1973 at
Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis. Sherry preceded him in death on November 9,
2025.

His career was building bridges as a crane operator with King Construction of
Hesston. He was also a lifelong farmer, starting with on his parents’ farm
south of Ellis and continuing with Sherry’s parents’ farm north of town.
Norbert was also a lifetime member of the Ellis VFW and forever a fan of the
K-State Wildcats.

Survivors include his daughters; Renee Fisher of Scottsdale, Arizona and
Melissa Fisher of Denver, Colorado; brothers, Marvin Fisher (Kay) of Hays and
George Fisher Jr (Debbie) of North Carolina; sisters, Lillian Bongartz (George)
of Ellis and Charlene Staab (Kenny) of Hays; a sister-in-law, Connie Fisher;
and three grandchildren, Lainey, Oliver and Evie.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Sherry; two brothers, Ronnie
and Kenny Fisher as well as two sisters, LouAnn Dinkel and Joan Fisher.

Memorial&nbsp; Services will be Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Keithley
Funeral Homes and Crematory - Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 East 17th Street
Ellis, Kansas 67637.

Inurnment with Military Honors, will follow the services in the Mt. Hope
Cemetery - Ellis.

Memorials are suggested to: VFW Post 9139 - Ellis, Kansas in care of the
funeral chapel.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Norbert's family on his
tribute page via: <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Norbert Fisher

Henry Charles Stramel, 88, of Hays, Kansas passed away
Sunday, January 25, 2026 at his home.&nbsp; He
passed away peacefully with family by his side.

Henry was born in Hays on January 30, 1937 to Stephen and
Elizabeth (Braun) Stramel.&nbsp; He was the
youngest of six children and was preceded in death by his parents and siblings;
Alfred, Eleanor, Agnes, Richard, and Mary.&nbsp;
He grew up in Hays, attended school, and raised his family there.

Henry was united in marriage to Irene Miller on December 27,
1958, and they were married for 56 years.&nbsp;
Their life was blessed with five children: Kathy, Sharon, Laurie, Carol,
and Delores.&nbsp; 

Hard work was imbedded in Henry’s character and he instilled
that work ethic in his daughters.&nbsp;&nbsp; He
was employed by Hunter Construction and later by Pierce – Schippers
Construction Company for 35 years. 

Fishing was one of Henry’s favorite pastimes, and he would
have bets with his girls for the biggest or most fish caught on a trip to the
local lakes around Hays. Henry enjoyed thrifting at local thrift shops and
garage sales looking for that special deal.&nbsp;
The best buy he ever made at a garage sale was his dog, Tucker, which he
bought for a $20 bill.&nbsp; This brought a
chuckle every time that story was told.&nbsp;
He also enjoyed playing games, putting puzzles together, gardening, and
watching television with his dog, Tucker, on his lap. He often got roped into
helping with crafty woodworking projects for his family.&nbsp; His construction background also gave him the
ability to be the family handyman, and he frequently had his toolbox out, building
or repairing something for someone.&nbsp; 

Henry is survived by his children; Kathy Cooley (Tracy) of
Overland Park, Sharon Obenland of Roeland Park, Laurie (Jim) Mortinger of Hays,
Carol Williams of Wichita, and Delores Stramel of Hays, eight grandchildren,
ten great-grandchildren and his dog, Tucker. 

Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Monday, February 2,
2026 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Fr. Nick Parker
officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in St.
Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from
5:00 pm until 7:00 on Sunday and from 9:30 am until service time on Monday, all
at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;
Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Henry may be left
for his family at www.haysmemorial.com 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769523033632.jpeg" alt="Henry Charles Stramel" />
 <figcaption>Henry Charles Stramel</figcaption>
 </figure>Henry Charles Stramel, 88, of Hays, Kansas passed away
Sunday, January 25, 2026 at his home.&nbsp; He
passed away peacefully with family by his side.Henry was born in Hays on January 30, 1937 to Stephen and
Elizabeth (Braun) Stramel.&nbsp; He was the
youngest of six children and was preceded in death by his parents and siblings;
Alfred, Eleanor, Agnes, Richard, and Mary.&nbsp;
He grew up in Hays, attended school, and raised his family there.Henry was united in marriage to Irene Miller on December 27,
1958, and they were married for 56 years.&nbsp;
Their life was blessed with five children: Kathy, Sharon, Laurie, Carol,
and Delores.&nbsp; Hard work was imbedded in Henry’s character and he instilled
that work ethic in his daughters.&nbsp;&nbsp; He
was employed by Hunter Construction and later by Pierce – Schippers
Construction Company for 35 years. Fishing was one of Henry’s favorite pastimes, and he would
have bets with his girls for the biggest or most fish caught on a trip to the
local lakes around Hays. Henry enjoyed thrifting at local thrift shops and
garage sales looking for that special deal.&nbsp;
The best buy he ever made at a garage sale was his dog, Tucker, which he
bought for a $20 bill.&nbsp; This brought a
chuckle every time that story was told.&nbsp;
He also enjoyed playing games, putting puzzles together, gardening, and
watching television with his dog, Tucker, on his lap. He often got roped into
helping with crafty woodworking projects for his family.&nbsp; His construction background also gave him the
ability to be the family handyman, and he frequently had his toolbox out, building
or repairing something for someone.&nbsp; Henry is survived by his children; Kathy Cooley (Tracy) of
Overland Park, Sharon Obenland of Roeland Park, Laurie (Jim) Mortinger of Hays,
Carol Williams of Wichita, and Delores Stramel of Hays, eight grandchildren,
ten great-grandchildren and his dog, Tucker. Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Monday, February 2,
2026 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Fr. Nick Parker
officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in St.
Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from
5:00 pm until 7:00 on Sunday and from 9:30 am until service time on Monday, all
at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;
Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Henry may be left
for his family at www.haysmemorial.com

Henry Charles Stramel

Virginia
Ann ‘Tina’ Bobek, of Plainville, Kansas, passed away on January 23, 2026, at
the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, Kansas, at the age of 86.

She
was born on December 14, 1939, to Albert and Rosie (Desaire) Hamel in Damar,
Kansas. Following high school, Tina began working as a waitress in Letha’s Cafe
where she met the love of her life, William ‘Bill’ Bobek, a regular customer of
Letha’s, who slid a silver dollar under his plate for her tip. Following their
marriage in 1960, she worked at Travenol in Hays before she and Bill purchased
B&amp;M Recreation in Plainville, later renamed Tina’s Recreation (fondly known
locally as ‘The Pool Hall’). She never met a stranger she couldn’t befriend.
Many patrons often returned for her friendly, hometown service, and she spent
many years serving old and new friends. When she wasn’t serving friends, she
enjoyed crocheting, embroidering, spending time with her grandchildren, and the
occasional trip to the casino to play her favorite penny slots. The family
fondly remembers her smiling and quoting customers, ‘Just one more, then I have
to go.’

Tina
is survived by her children: Kayla Hamblet (Rocky) of Plainville, Chris Bobek
(Stacey) of Phoenix, AZ, and Kevin Bobek (Shari) of Plainville; brothers, Alvin 'Pal' Hamel of Damar, Ronald ‘Duck’ Hamel of Plainville; sister, Dorothy Staab
(Bob) of Plainville; seven grandchildren: Lindsey Base-Hamblet (Nick) of
Aurora, CO, Lacey Sweeney (Kenny) of Hays, KS, Landon Hamblet of Hays, KS,
Samantha Bobek (Bradley Buck) of Hays, KS, Dalton Bobek of New York, NY, Colton
Bobek of Hays, KS, Simone Griest (Brandon) of Manhattan, KS;&nbsp; and eight great-grandchildren.

She
was preceded in death by her husband, William ‘Bill’ Bobek; her parents;
brothers, Gene and Junior Hamel; and sisters, Betty McNabb and Kaylene
Hazelhorst.

A Mass
of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM at
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart
Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesday, 6-7 PM with a Vigil and
Rosary Service at 7 PM, all at the funeral home in Plainville.

Memorials
are suggested to Sacred Heart Catholic Church and may be sent to
Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67663.

Online
condolences may be sent to <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769459133087.jpeg" alt="Virginia Ann ‘Tina’ Bobek" />
 <figcaption>Virginia Ann ‘Tina’ Bobek</figcaption>
 </figure>Virginia
Ann ‘Tina’ Bobek, of Plainville, Kansas, passed away on January 23, 2026, at
the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, Kansas, at the age of 86.She
was born on December 14, 1939, to Albert and Rosie (Desaire) Hamel in Damar,
Kansas. Following high school, Tina began working as a waitress in Letha’s Cafe
where she met the love of her life, William ‘Bill’ Bobek, a regular customer of
Letha’s, who slid a silver dollar under his plate for her tip. Following their
marriage in 1960, she worked at Travenol in Hays before she and Bill purchased
B&amp;M Recreation in Plainville, later renamed Tina’s Recreation (fondly known
locally as ‘The Pool Hall’). She never met a stranger she couldn’t befriend.
Many patrons often returned for her friendly, hometown service, and she spent
many years serving old and new friends. When she wasn’t serving friends, she
enjoyed crocheting, embroidering, spending time with her grandchildren, and the
occasional trip to the casino to play her favorite penny slots. The family
fondly remembers her smiling and quoting customers, ‘Just one more, then I have
to go.’Tina
is survived by her children: Kayla Hamblet (Rocky) of Plainville, Chris Bobek
(Stacey) of Phoenix, AZ, and Kevin Bobek (Shari) of Plainville; brothers, Alvin 'Pal' Hamel of Damar, Ronald ‘Duck’ Hamel of Plainville; sister, Dorothy Staab
(Bob) of Plainville; seven grandchildren: Lindsey Base-Hamblet (Nick) of
Aurora, CO, Lacey Sweeney (Kenny) of Hays, KS, Landon Hamblet of Hays, KS,
Samantha Bobek (Bradley Buck) of Hays, KS, Dalton Bobek of New York, NY, Colton
Bobek of Hays, KS, Simone Griest (Brandon) of Manhattan, KS;&nbsp; and eight great-grandchildren.She
was preceded in death by her husband, William ‘Bill’ Bobek; her parents;
brothers, Gene and Junior Hamel; and sisters, Betty McNabb and Kaylene
Hazelhorst.A Mass
of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM at
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart
Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesday, 6-7 PM with a Vigil and
Rosary Service at 7 PM, all at the funeral home in Plainville.Memorials
are suggested to Sacred Heart Catholic Church and may be sent to
Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67663.Online
condolences may be sent to <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

Virginia Ann ‘Tina’ Bobek

Virgil
William Ziegler 83, passed away on January 25, 2026, at the Decatur County
Health Complex, Oberlin, KS. He was born July 31, 1942, to Adam and Genevieve
Ziegler in rural Park, KS. He attended the Hoxie Public Schools and graduated
from Hoxie High School in 1960.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769458769400.jpeg" alt="Virgil William Ziegler&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Virgil William Ziegler&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Virgil
William Ziegler 83, passed away on January 25, 2026, at the Decatur County
Health Complex, Oberlin, KS. He was born July 31, 1942, to Adam and Genevieve
Ziegler in rural Park, KS. He attended the Hoxie Public Schools and graduated
from Hoxie High School in 1960.&nbsp; Virgil
attended Kansas State University in the fall of 1960, where he learned a lot
and decided that college was not for him.&nbsp;
He decided to volunteer for the draft with the US Army.&nbsp; He was in the Army from 1961-1963 as a PFC3
with the 5th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado.&nbsp; In 1963 he asked his Major if he should
re-enlist or go home; after the advice of his major, He decided to return home and
start his family and his life on the farm.Virgil
and Virginia moved to the farm in 1963; where he raised cows, pigs and
chickens.&nbsp; He farmed the land rotating
from wheat, milo and feed.&nbsp; Virgil
decided in 1979 to go into the fat hog business and built the hog
building.&nbsp; He raised fat hogs until the
early 2000’s when he rented out the building to neighbors for their hogs.&nbsp; In
2005 Virgil started his own Business, ZZ Mats.&nbsp;
He made mats out of recycled tires. He made custom mats for trailers,
feedlots, packing plants, and various other businesses.&nbsp; He enjoyed figuring out how to make the
custom sized mats and delivering them all over the country.&nbsp; Virgil
retired in 2017 and enjoyed spending more time with Virginia.&nbsp; He traveled around the country, finding their
favorite casinos.&nbsp; His hobbies included
reading, playing cards and telling jokes.&nbsp;
He enjoyed playing Keno at the pit stop in Quinter and having coffee
with the farmers.&nbsp; Virgil
is survived by his three children, Kevin of Elkins, AR; Cynthia (Rob) Bieberle
of Colby, KS; Patti (Shay) of Phoenix, AZ. He also leaves behind three beloved
grandchildren: Anna Ziegler, Zell (Alysha) Bieberle, Tayler (Mason) Wright; one
great-grandchild, Quinn Bieberle.Virgil
was preceded in death by his wife Virginia, parents Genevieve and Adam; and
brother Leland. The
family would like to acknowledge with love and appreciation the care given by
the staff who took care of him at the Decatur County Hospital, Kearney Regional
and Amber Health in Hoxie. A
funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at
Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home.&nbsp; Visitation
will take place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at
the funeral home. The family will be present to receive friends from 5:00 p.m.
to 7:00 p.m. during visitation.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers please make donations to
the Sheridan County Benefit Walk. Memorials may be sent in care of
Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO Box 987, Hoxie, KS. 67740.

Obituaries