Rodney John “Rod”
Steckel, 76, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025 at the
Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.

Rod was born August
20, 1949 in Russell, Kansas to Clarence J. and Irene M. (Thielen) Steckel.&nbsp; He grew up in Russell and graduated from
Russell High School in the Class of 1968.

Rod was united in
marriage to Pam Weeks on July 2, 1971.&nbsp;
This union was blessed with three children; Heather, Jerod and
Crystal.&nbsp; Later he was united in marriage
to Galene Brown on November 3, 1991.&nbsp;
With this union, he gained two children; Nicole and Nathan.

In Rod’s younger
years, he was a rancher and custom harvester. He enjoyed off-road and drag
racing. In later years, Rod farmed and owned and operated Steckel Trucking. He
always had a love for firearms and shooting. He competed in everything from
3-gun competitions to trap shooting. He passed on his knowledge to Fort Hays
State University criminal justice students as a shooting instructor. He was
extremely proud to be a member of Team Kansas, a group dedicated to the mastery
of firearms. Their motto: “This Ain’t Dodge City &amp; You Ain’t Bill Hickock!”
Rod dedicated many years as a Reserve deputy with the Russell County Sheriff’s
Office and was named Russell County Volunteer of the Year in 2007. He was a
lifelong member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Rod was described as kind,
respectful, and fun-loving. Many will remember good times with Rod, some
stories well-known and others best left untold. 

Surviving family
include his four children, Heather Steckel of Russell, Kansas, Jerod Steckel
(Marcia) of Russell, Kansas, Crystal Miner (Dan) of Russell, Kansas and Nicole
Barrera of Russell, Kansas; 18 grandchildren, Cole Bilbrey, Sydnie Nickerson,
Shaelynn Ringer, Trey Bitter, Macey Steckel, Jasper DeWitte, Hailey Geir,
Caleigh Befort, Isabelle Kraus, Wilson Miner, Ansen Miner, Jaylynn Walton,
Jensen Miner, Ally Ochampaugh, Regan Betts, Daryss Barrera, Ashtyn Barrera and
Madison Veleta; and nine great grandchildren.

Rod was preceded in
death by his parents; son, Nathan Peterka; and son-in-law, Greg Bitter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758146664267.jpeg" alt="Rodney John 'Rod' Steckel" />
 <figcaption>Rodney John 'Rod' Steckel</figcaption>
 </figure>Rodney John “Rod”
Steckel, 76, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025 at the
Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.Rod was born August
20, 1949 in Russell, Kansas to Clarence J. and Irene M. (Thielen) Steckel.&nbsp; He grew up in Russell and graduated from
Russell High School in the Class of 1968.Rod was united in
marriage to Pam Weeks on July 2, 1971.&nbsp;
This union was blessed with three children; Heather, Jerod and
Crystal.&nbsp; Later he was united in marriage
to Galene Brown on November 3, 1991.&nbsp;
With this union, he gained two children; Nicole and Nathan.In Rod’s younger
years, he was a rancher and custom harvester. He enjoyed off-road and drag
racing. In later years, Rod farmed and owned and operated Steckel Trucking. He
always had a love for firearms and shooting. He competed in everything from
3-gun competitions to trap shooting. He passed on his knowledge to Fort Hays
State University criminal justice students as a shooting instructor. He was
extremely proud to be a member of Team Kansas, a group dedicated to the mastery
of firearms. Their motto: “This Ain’t Dodge City &amp; You Ain’t Bill Hickock!”
Rod dedicated many years as a Reserve deputy with the Russell County Sheriff’s
Office and was named Russell County Volunteer of the Year in 2007. He was a
lifelong member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Rod was described as kind,
respectful, and fun-loving. Many will remember good times with Rod, some
stories well-known and others best left untold. Surviving family
include his four children, Heather Steckel of Russell, Kansas, Jerod Steckel
(Marcia) of Russell, Kansas, Crystal Miner (Dan) of Russell, Kansas and Nicole
Barrera of Russell, Kansas; 18 grandchildren, Cole Bilbrey, Sydnie Nickerson,
Shaelynn Ringer, Trey Bitter, Macey Steckel, Jasper DeWitte, Hailey Geir,
Caleigh Befort, Isabelle Kraus, Wilson Miner, Ansen Miner, Jaylynn Walton,
Jensen Miner, Ally Ochampaugh, Regan Betts, Daryss Barrera, Ashtyn Barrera and
Madison Veleta; and nine great grandchildren.Rod was preceded in
death by his parents; son, Nathan Peterka; and son-in-law, Greg Bitter.

Rodney John 'Rod' Steckel

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Larry Connor, born Joseph Larry, lifelong resident of
WaKeeney, Kansas, met his Lord on September 15, 2025. Larry was born in Hays,
Kansas, on July 6, 1933. He graduated from Trego Community High School and
continued on to Kansas State University, where he majored in Agriculture.
Following college, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, staying
prepared for a potential Russian invasion during the Cold War. While in Europe,
he was able to travel to Paris, but his favorite memory was visiting Rome and
the Vatican.

Larry was married twice, first to Olga Harris in 1972.
Sadly, Olga was taken from him the following year by cancer. He later married
Helen Watson, well known in WaKeeney for Helen’s Café. They remained united
until her passing in 2008. Larry was a lifelong farmer and rancher and employed
and mentored many youths from WaKeeney as well as his nephews during the
summers. A lifelong Democrat, Larry and Helen often hosted local events for the
Democratic Party. He couldn’t understand why everyone wasn’t a Democrat, given
their role in bringing Rural Electric, Social Security, and Medicare.

Beyond his strong work ethic, the defining feature of
Larry’s life was his generosity. He helped countless WaKeeney residents with
bills, groceries, gas, or by providing work when needed. He donated the
property where the Community Center for Christ the King Church now stands.
Larry long dreamed of building an indoor swimming pool for WaKeeney youth; when
that plan did not come to fruition, he dug several ponds on his property to
provide some of the best fishing around.

Larry is survived by sisters Lori Blackwill of WaKeeney,
Kansas; Karen Vail of Salina, Kansas; and Kay Religa of Brookville, Kansas; as
well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Connor,
brother James Connor, and sister Gladys Connor.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from
5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
A graveside service will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 10:30
a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Cemetery, 500 S. 13th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
Fr. James Alaya of Christ the King Catholic Church will be officiating.

Memorial contributions are a personal choice, but Larry
supported many animal and Catholic organizations. Donations may be sent to
Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758146930346.jpeg" alt="Larry Connor" />
 <figcaption>Larry Connor</figcaption>
 </figure>Larry Connor, born Joseph Larry, lifelong resident of
WaKeeney, Kansas, met his Lord on September 15, 2025. Larry was born in Hays,
Kansas, on July 6, 1933. He graduated from Trego Community High School and
continued on to Kansas State University, where he majored in Agriculture.
Following college, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, staying
prepared for a potential Russian invasion during the Cold War. While in Europe,
he was able to travel to Paris, but his favorite memory was visiting Rome and
the Vatican.Larry was married twice, first to Olga Harris in 1972.
Sadly, Olga was taken from him the following year by cancer. He later married
Helen Watson, well known in WaKeeney for Helen’s Café. They remained united
until her passing in 2008. Larry was a lifelong farmer and rancher and employed
and mentored many youths from WaKeeney as well as his nephews during the
summers. A lifelong Democrat, Larry and Helen often hosted local events for the
Democratic Party. He couldn’t understand why everyone wasn’t a Democrat, given
their role in bringing Rural Electric, Social Security, and Medicare.Beyond his strong work ethic, the defining feature of
Larry’s life was his generosity. He helped countless WaKeeney residents with
bills, groceries, gas, or by providing work when needed. He donated the
property where the Community Center for Christ the King Church now stands.
Larry long dreamed of building an indoor swimming pool for WaKeeney youth; when
that plan did not come to fruition, he dug several ponds on his property to
provide some of the best fishing around.Larry is survived by sisters Lori Blackwill of WaKeeney,
Kansas; Karen Vail of Salina, Kansas; and Kay Religa of Brookville, Kansas; as
well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.He was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Connor,
brother James Connor, and sister Gladys Connor.Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from
5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
A graveside service will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 10:30
a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Cemetery, 500 S. 13th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
Fr. James Alaya of Christ the King Catholic Church will be officiating.Memorial contributions are a personal choice, but Larry
supported many animal and Catholic organizations. Donations may be sent to
Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.To share memories or leave condolences, please visit <a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

Larry Connor

Linda Lee Hyatt passed away at her home in Rush Center, Kansas on
September 15, 2025. She was born July 13, 1943, in Bath County, Virginia, one
of four children born to John Andrew and Evelyn Venetta Beck. She enjoyed and
loved growing up and working on the large family farm raising chickens,
turkeys, beef cattle, and participating in the various activities of farm life.
At age 17 she moved with her family to St Petersburg, Florida where she
graduated from high school. After graduation she moved to Maryland and worked
for NASA. While in Maryland she met missionaries from the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints and was soon baptized a member where she loved,
embraced and served faithfully in her church the remainder of her life.

After meeting the love of her life and eternal companion to be,
Chester Blaine Hyatt, and dating for ten days, they were sealed together for
time and all eternity in a Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints in St George, Utah on September 24, 1966. She started her family life in
Parowan, Utah. She had a great love for learning and pursued her education soon
after her marriage attending Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah where
she received her bachelor’s degree in 1970 with a major in Elementary Education
and a minor in Music and Child Development. In 1981 she received her master’s
degree from Utah State University with a major in Elementary Education and an
emphasis on Early Childhood Education. In 1994 she received her doctorate
degree from Walden University, majoring in Educational Administration with
emphasis on Special Education and Gifted Education.

While in Parowan, Utah she owned and operated a private academic
preschool. In 1990 she and her family moved to Eureka, Nevada where she worked
in the following capacities: Director of Special Education Services, Assistant
Administrator to Superintendent, and Gifted Education Teacher, Due Process
Hearing Officer for the State of Nevada, Adjunct Professor of Graduate Studies
for Southern Utah University, Advisor and Coordinator for graduate students in
northeastern Nevada for Southern Utah University, English, Music and History
teacher and Outreach Coordinator for Great Basin College. In 2001 she moved to
Hays, Kansas to teach at Fort Hays State University where she concluded her
career as a professor in 2016. She published numerous professional articles, authored
and co-authored several books.

The most important and cherished things in her life were her
family and church for which she sacrificed and gave selfless service through
her life. She taught classes and served in leadership positions in her church
and felt one of the greatest blessings was the opportunity to serve as a temple
worker in the Kansas City, Missouri temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints.

She is survived by her husband C. Blaine Hyatt of Rush Center,
Kansas; Children: Sandi Hyatt of Hopkinsville, Kentucky; Dr. Andrew B. Hyatt
(Clarice) of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; John Benjamin Hyatt (Sarah) of LaCrosse,
Kansas; and James C. Hyatt (Abby) of Hays, Kansas. 11 grandchildren and two
great grandsons.

Funeral Services will be Monday September 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2901 Canal Boulevard Hays,
Kansas 67601. Viewing and Visitation will be on Sunday September 21, 2025, from
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel,
2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601, and on Monday from 10:00 AM until service
time at the Church. Interment will follow the services on Monday in Locust Hill
Cemetery - Rush Center, Kansas at 2:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the General
Missionary Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (please make
checks payable to Missionary Fund) in care of the Funeral Chapel.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758032195012.jpeg" alt="Linda Lee Hyatt" />
 <figcaption>Linda Lee Hyatt</figcaption>
 </figure>Linda Lee Hyatt passed away at her home in Rush Center, Kansas on
September 15, 2025. She was born July 13, 1943, in Bath County, Virginia, one
of four children born to John Andrew and Evelyn Venetta Beck. She enjoyed and
loved growing up and working on the large family farm raising chickens,
turkeys, beef cattle, and participating in the various activities of farm life.
At age 17 she moved with her family to St Petersburg, Florida where she
graduated from high school. After graduation she moved to Maryland and worked
for NASA. While in Maryland she met missionaries from the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints and was soon baptized a member where she loved,
embraced and served faithfully in her church the remainder of her life.After meeting the love of her life and eternal companion to be,
Chester Blaine Hyatt, and dating for ten days, they were sealed together for
time and all eternity in a Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints in St George, Utah on September 24, 1966. She started her family life in
Parowan, Utah. She had a great love for learning and pursued her education soon
after her marriage attending Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah where
she received her bachelor’s degree in 1970 with a major in Elementary Education
and a minor in Music and Child Development. In 1981 she received her master’s
degree from Utah State University with a major in Elementary Education and an
emphasis on Early Childhood Education. In 1994 she received her doctorate
degree from Walden University, majoring in Educational Administration with
emphasis on Special Education and Gifted Education.While in Parowan, Utah she owned and operated a private academic
preschool. In 1990 she and her family moved to Eureka, Nevada where she worked
in the following capacities: Director of Special Education Services, Assistant
Administrator to Superintendent, and Gifted Education Teacher, Due Process
Hearing Officer for the State of Nevada, Adjunct Professor of Graduate Studies
for Southern Utah University, Advisor and Coordinator for graduate students in
northeastern Nevada for Southern Utah University, English, Music and History
teacher and Outreach Coordinator for Great Basin College. In 2001 she moved to
Hays, Kansas to teach at Fort Hays State University where she concluded her
career as a professor in 2016. She published numerous professional articles, authored
and co-authored several books.The most important and cherished things in her life were her
family and church for which she sacrificed and gave selfless service through
her life. She taught classes and served in leadership positions in her church
and felt one of the greatest blessings was the opportunity to serve as a temple
worker in the Kansas City, Missouri temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints.She is survived by her husband C. Blaine Hyatt of Rush Center,
Kansas; Children: Sandi Hyatt of Hopkinsville, Kentucky; Dr. Andrew B. Hyatt
(Clarice) of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; John Benjamin Hyatt (Sarah) of LaCrosse,
Kansas; and James C. Hyatt (Abby) of Hays, Kansas. 11 grandchildren and two
great grandsons.Funeral Services will be Monday September 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2901 Canal Boulevard Hays,
Kansas 67601. Viewing and Visitation will be on Sunday September 21, 2025, from
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel,
2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601, and on Monday from 10:00 AM until service
time at the Church. Interment will follow the services on Monday in Locust Hill
Cemetery - Rush Center, Kansas at 2:30 PM.In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the General
Missionary Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (please make
checks payable to Missionary Fund) in care of the Funeral Chapel.Services in care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory -
Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

Linda Lee Hyatt

Evelyn Kay Burns,81, of Russell, Kansas, died on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Lincoln Park Manor in Lincoln, Kansas. 

Evelyn was born on November 21, 1943, in rural Natoma, Kansas, on the family farm, the daughter of Verle Dean and LaVon (Dougherty) Naylor.  She grew up in Natoma and graduated from Lucas High School in the class of 1962.  She met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Steve Garrett Burns on June 06, 1969, in Russell, Kansas.  From this union they were blessed with two sons Daniel and Steven.  Evelyn worked as a cook at various restaurants, most notably working for Granda Max in Salina, Kansas, for several years.  She enjoyed knitting, puzzle games, cooking and spending time with her family.

Surviving family include her husband of 56 years, Steve G. Burns of Russell, Kansas, son Steven Burns of Salina, Kansas, five grandchildren Erika Wegele, Zack Burns, Dakota Burns, Cheyenne Burns and Brittany Burns and four great grandchildren.  

She was preceded in death by her parents, son Daniel R. Burns, grandson Steven K. Burns, Jr., brother Gerald Naylor and three sisters Susan Mayberry, Ruth Ryan and Mildred Bland.

Cremation has been selected by the family.  A private memorial celebration of Evelyn’s life will be held at a later date.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas is in charge of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758124547053.jpeg" alt="Evelyn Kay Burns" />
 <figcaption>Evelyn Kay Burns</figcaption>
 </figure>Evelyn Kay Burns,81, of Russell, Kansas, died on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Lincoln Park Manor in Lincoln, Kansas. Evelyn was born on November 21, 1943, in rural Natoma, Kansas, on the family farm, the daughter of Verle Dean and LaVon (Dougherty) Naylor. She grew up in Natoma and graduated from Lucas High School in the class of 1962. She met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Steve Garrett Burns on June 06, 1969, in Russell, Kansas. From this union they were blessed with two sons Daniel and Steven. Evelyn worked as a cook at various restaurants, most notably working for Granda Max in Salina, Kansas, for several years. She enjoyed knitting, puzzle games, cooking and spending time with her family.Surviving family include her husband of 56 years, Steve G. Burns of Russell, Kansas, son Steven Burns of Salina, Kansas, five grandchildren Erika Wegele, Zack Burns, Dakota Burns, Cheyenne Burns and Brittany Burns and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, son Daniel R. Burns, grandson Steven K. Burns, Jr., brother Gerald Naylor and three sisters Susan Mayberry, Ruth Ryan and Mildred Bland.Cremation has been selected by the family. A private memorial celebration of Evelyn’s life will be held at a later date. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas is in charge of the arrangements.

Evelyn Kay Burns

Mary Jo Clevenger, 72, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on
September 15, 2025 after a long, brave, and courageous fight with cancer.

Mary Jo was born on April 21, 1953, to Mary (Bongartz) and
Bonaventure “Barney” Riedel in WaKeeney, Kansas. She was united in marriage
with Darrell Clevenger at Christ the King Catholic Church on June 12th, 1971,
and together they raised two children, Kerby and Kally.

She was deeply devoted to Christ the King Catholic Church
throughout the years, serving on the parish council, as a CCD coordinator,
Eucharistic Minister, and Lector. She was instrumental in the planning of the
parish center and the restoration and renovation of the church. She provided
steadfast support to many of the parish priests.

Her service extended to the broader community as well. She
served multiple terms on the WaKeeney City Council, was a dedicated board
member of the Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, and held the position of
Treasurer for the TCHS Alumni Association.&nbsp;

Mary Jo’s work life reflected the same loyalty and
dedication she gave to her family and community. She retired as Senior Vice
President and Senior BSA officer of the WaKeeney branch of Solutions North Bank
after 46 years of service, where she built lifelong friendships with colleagues
and customers alike.

Beyond her work and service, Mary Jo found joy in life’s
simple pleasures—tending her flower and vegetable gardens, canning,
cross-stitching, cooking meals to share with family and friends, and traveling
across the United States. Her favorite time of the day was watching the sunrise
over her flower gardens as she said her rosary.

Mary Jo will be remembered as a loving wife, mother,
grandmother, sister, and aunt. Those who knew her will never forget her
kindness, her generosity, and the way she always put others before herself.

She is survived by her husband, Darrell; her son, Kerby
(Angela) Clevenger; her daughter, Kally (Jody) Hearron; and six beloved
grandchildren: Kyle and Matthew Clevenger, and Jacob, Krysten, Abby, and Ryan
Hearron. She also leaves behind her sisters Edna Mae Deines, Wilma Silkman, and
Donna Sanders; and her brother Gerald Riedel.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Barney
Riedel, her sister Louise, and her brother Donald.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 5:00
to 7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS, with
a vigil service and rosary immediately following. A Mass of Christian Burial
will be held Friday, September 19, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Christ the King
Catholic Church, 412 North Ninth Street, with burial to follow in the church
cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to
the Christ the King Catholic Church (building fund) or the Trego Hospital
Endowment Foundation. Contributions may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336
North 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758113129529.jpeg" alt="Mary Jo Clevenger" />
 <figcaption>Mary Jo Clevenger</figcaption>
 </figure>Mary Jo Clevenger, 72, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on
September 15, 2025 after a long, brave, and courageous fight with cancer.Mary Jo was born on April 21, 1953, to Mary (Bongartz) and
Bonaventure “Barney” Riedel in WaKeeney, Kansas. She was united in marriage
with Darrell Clevenger at Christ the King Catholic Church on June 12th, 1971,
and together they raised two children, Kerby and Kally.She was deeply devoted to Christ the King Catholic Church
throughout the years, serving on the parish council, as a CCD coordinator,
Eucharistic Minister, and Lector. She was instrumental in the planning of the
parish center and the restoration and renovation of the church. She provided
steadfast support to many of the parish priests.Her service extended to the broader community as well. She
served multiple terms on the WaKeeney City Council, was a dedicated board
member of the Trego Hospital Endowment Foundation, and held the position of
Treasurer for the TCHS Alumni Association.&nbsp;Mary Jo’s work life reflected the same loyalty and
dedication she gave to her family and community. She retired as Senior Vice
President and Senior BSA officer of the WaKeeney branch of Solutions North Bank
after 46 years of service, where she built lifelong friendships with colleagues
and customers alike.Beyond her work and service, Mary Jo found joy in life’s
simple pleasures—tending her flower and vegetable gardens, canning,
cross-stitching, cooking meals to share with family and friends, and traveling
across the United States. Her favorite time of the day was watching the sunrise
over her flower gardens as she said her rosary.Mary Jo will be remembered as a loving wife, mother,
grandmother, sister, and aunt. Those who knew her will never forget her
kindness, her generosity, and the way she always put others before herself.She is survived by her husband, Darrell; her son, Kerby
(Angela) Clevenger; her daughter, Kally (Jody) Hearron; and six beloved
grandchildren: Kyle and Matthew Clevenger, and Jacob, Krysten, Abby, and Ryan
Hearron. She also leaves behind her sisters Edna Mae Deines, Wilma Silkman, and
Donna Sanders; and her brother Gerald Riedel.She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Barney
Riedel, her sister Louise, and her brother Donald.Visitation will be Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 5:00
to 7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS, with
a vigil service and rosary immediately following. A Mass of Christian Burial
will be held Friday, September 19, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Christ the King
Catholic Church, 412 North Ninth Street, with burial to follow in the church
cemetery.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to
the Christ the King Catholic Church (building fund) or the Trego Hospital
Endowment Foundation. Contributions may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336
North 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Mary Jo Clevenger

Alfred Joseph 'Al' Schuster, 89, Hays, died Sunday,
September 14, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family.

Alfred was born November 5, 1935 in the family Trego County
farmhouse, the son of Joe and Theresia (Aschenbrenner) Schuster.&nbsp; He grew
up on the farm near Cedar Bluff Lake, attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in
Ellis, and in 1953, graduated from Brownell High School.&nbsp; Alfred served in
the U.S. Army from 1954-1956, achieving the rank of Private First Class, and
then continued his education at Fort Hays State University where he earned a
Bachelor’s Degree in geology.&nbsp; On May 9, 1959, he was united in marriage
to Phyllis Brull in Hays, and together they raised three daughters, Sherri,
Gerri, and Barbara.&nbsp; In 1962, Alfred moved his young family to the house
he and his father-in-law, Ralph Brull, built on the northeast corner of Ralph’s
farm.&nbsp; Phyllis preceded Alfred in death on February 11, 2006 after nearly
47 years of marriage.&nbsp; Alfred worked for Schwaller Lumber Company in Hays
and then became a Wichita Local 441 Union plumber and pipe fitter for the
remainder of his career, retiring at the age of 62.&nbsp; After retirement, he
enjoyed working on the farm and raising cattle.

Alfred was a member of St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church
and the Hays American Legion Post #173.

Survivors include his daughters, Sherri (Rick) Underwood of
Gorham, Gerri (Brad) Kielhofner of Springfield, MO, and Barbara (Steve)
Tremblay of St. Charles, MO, his sister Carol (Joe) Eckhardt of Topeka, six
grandchildren, Jared (Catherine) Tremblay, Gail (Michael) Clark, Thomas
Kielhofner, Diane (Sandy) McGraw, Jane Kielhofner, and Stephen Kielhofner, four
great grandchildren, Opal Tremblay, William Clark, Mabel Clark, and Poppy
McGraw, two sisters-in-law, Geraldine Pfeifer of Hays and Susan (Mick) Billinger
of Hays, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Phyllis, his parents,
his sister Dorothy Walker, and his brother Ralph Schuster.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Friday,
September 19, 2025 at St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church with Fr. Damian
Richards officiating.&nbsp; Burial with military honors by the Hays VFW Post
#9076 Honor Guard and the Hays American Legion Post #173 will follow in St.
Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 6:00 pm until 8:00 on Thursday
and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral
Home.&nbsp; A vigil service and rosary will be at 7:00 pm on Thursday at the
funeral home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to HaysMed Hospice and condolences
and memories of Alfred may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758038879557.jpeg" alt="Alfred Joseph 'Al' Schuster" />
 <figcaption>Alfred Joseph 'Al' Schuster</figcaption>
 </figure>Alfred Joseph 'Al' Schuster, 89, Hays, died Sunday,
September 14, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family.Alfred was born November 5, 1935 in the family Trego County
farmhouse, the son of Joe and Theresia (Aschenbrenner) Schuster.&nbsp; He grew
up on the farm near Cedar Bluff Lake, attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in
Ellis, and in 1953, graduated from Brownell High School.&nbsp; Alfred served in
the U.S. Army from 1954-1956, achieving the rank of Private First Class, and
then continued his education at Fort Hays State University where he earned a
Bachelor’s Degree in geology.&nbsp; On May 9, 1959, he was united in marriage
to Phyllis Brull in Hays, and together they raised three daughters, Sherri,
Gerri, and Barbara.&nbsp; In 1962, Alfred moved his young family to the house
he and his father-in-law, Ralph Brull, built on the northeast corner of Ralph’s
farm.&nbsp; Phyllis preceded Alfred in death on February 11, 2006 after nearly
47 years of marriage.&nbsp; Alfred worked for Schwaller Lumber Company in Hays
and then became a Wichita Local 441 Union plumber and pipe fitter for the
remainder of his career, retiring at the age of 62.&nbsp; After retirement, he
enjoyed working on the farm and raising cattle.Alfred was a member of St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church
and the Hays American Legion Post #173.Survivors include his daughters, Sherri (Rick) Underwood of
Gorham, Gerri (Brad) Kielhofner of Springfield, MO, and Barbara (Steve)
Tremblay of St. Charles, MO, his sister Carol (Joe) Eckhardt of Topeka, six
grandchildren, Jared (Catherine) Tremblay, Gail (Michael) Clark, Thomas
Kielhofner, Diane (Sandy) McGraw, Jane Kielhofner, and Stephen Kielhofner, four
great grandchildren, Opal Tremblay, William Clark, Mabel Clark, and Poppy
McGraw, two sisters-in-law, Geraldine Pfeifer of Hays and Susan (Mick) Billinger
of Hays, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his wife Phyllis, his parents,
his sister Dorothy Walker, and his brother Ralph Schuster.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Friday,
September 19, 2025 at St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church with Fr. Damian
Richards officiating.&nbsp; Burial with military honors by the Hays VFW Post
#9076 Honor Guard and the Hays American Legion Post #173 will follow in St.
Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 6:00 pm until 8:00 on Thursday
and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral
Home.&nbsp; A vigil service and rosary will be at 7:00 pm on Thursday at the
funeral home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to HaysMed Hospice and condolences
and memories of Alfred may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

Alfred Joseph 'Al' Schuster

&nbsp;Laverne 'Sonny' H. Schoenthaler
and Carolyn M. Mohr Schoenthaler

Laverne was born May 3, 1931, to Frederick (Bill) and Zeta
(Duncan) Schoenthaler at Hays Hospital. He was baptized and confirmed at Christ
Lutheran Church in Ellis, Kansas. At an early age, he was given the nickname 'Sonny,' a name so familiar that many friends never knew him by any other. He
grew up in Trego County and remained there his entire life. A proud member of
the Trego Community High School class of 1949, known as the '49ers,' he enjoyed
sports and participated in both football and track. He went on to spend his
life farming and ranching. Laverne passed away on September 11, 2025, at Trego
County-Lemke Memorial Hospital Long Term Care.

Carolyn Mae Mohr was born June 11, 1933, on the family farm
west of WaKeeney, to Jacob and Bertha (Struss) Mohr. She was baptized and
confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. She attended Old Bosna Country School
and graduated from Trego Community High School in 1951. Carolyn loved sewing
dresses for her daughters and was known for her delicious pies, especially
coconut cream and chocolate cream. Carolyn passed away on September 12, 2025,
at her home.

On December 28, 1951, Sonny and Carolyn were united in
marriage at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in WaKeeney. They made their home on the
Schoenthaler family farm, seven miles southeast of WaKeeney, where they lived
until moving to Keeney Village four years ago.

Together they raised three children: Cindy, Janelle, and
Steve. They were active leaders in 4-H and members of the WaKeeney Saddle Club,
where they enjoyed participating in fairs, horse shows, and community events,
earning many trophies and ribbons along the way. Sonny served his community as
a church council member, Saddle Club officer, Trego Center School Board member,
Farmers Union officer, and for many years as a WaKeeney Township Board member.
He also worked penning cattle at the Sale Barn on Tuesdays. Carolyn contributed
her skills as secretary and bookkeeper at the WaKeeney Animal Clinic and the
WaKeeney Sale Barn office.

Farming and ranching were more than just work to Sonny and
Carolyn—they were a way of life they loved. They even named many of their cows
and had favorite pets, especially their dogs, Odie and Tootsie, who rarely left
their side. In their free time, they enjoyed playing cards, bingo, and visiting
casinos. Sonny especially cherished watching their grandchildren and
great-grandchildren play sports.

They are survived by their children: Steve (Heather)
Schoenthaler of WaKeeney, Cindy (Bill) Level of WaKeeney, and Janelle (Steve)
Riedy of Salina; grandchildren—Kyle (Sage) Level, Kerah (Shawn) Deines of
WaKeeney, Brent (Amber) Riedy of Andover, Shauna (Tyler) Smith of Salina, Deven
Schoenthaler of Ashland, Massachusetts, Emarie Schoenthaler of Raleigh, North
Carolina, and Noah Oborny of Iowa; great-grandchildren—Graeden and Hudson
Deines, Kamdyn Reynolds of WaKeeney, Shawna Deines and son James of Colby, Braxton,
Mason, and Jensen Riedy of Andover, and Blakely and Everly Smith of Salina;
brother Ernie (Leanna) Mohr of DeSoto, Kansas; and brother-in-law Leroy Engel
of Westminster, Colorado, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Laverne was preceded in death by his parents; sisters
Shirley Engel and Ruth Benisch, and Ruth’s husband George. Carolyn was preceded
in death by her parents; brothers Alvin (Freida) Mohr and Martin (Ella) Mohr;
and sisters Marie (Kenneth) Lahmann and Wilma (Ernest) Dietz.

Sonny and Carolyn’s lives were beautifully intertwined for
more than seventy-three years, and in God’s grace, they entered eternal rest
just one day apart—together forever as they had always been.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday,
September 17, 2025, at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th Street, WaKeeney,
Kansas 67672. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, from 9:30
a.m. to 10:30 a.m. A procession to WaKeeney City Cemetery will immediately
follow the funeral service, where the committal will take place.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
Bethlehem Lutheran Church and sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th
Street, WaKeeney, Kansas 67672. Condolences and memories may be shared at <a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757951874590.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Laverne 'Sonny' H. Schoenthaler and Carolyn M. Mohr Schoenthaler" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Laverne 'Sonny' H. Schoenthaler and Carolyn M. Mohr Schoenthaler</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Laverne 'Sonny' H. Schoenthaler
and Carolyn M. Mohr SchoenthalerLaverne was born May 3, 1931, to Frederick (Bill) and Zeta
(Duncan) Schoenthaler at Hays Hospital. He was baptized and confirmed at Christ
Lutheran Church in Ellis, Kansas. At an early age, he was given the nickname 'Sonny,' a name so familiar that many friends never knew him by any other. He
grew up in Trego County and remained there his entire life. A proud member of
the Trego Community High School class of 1949, known as the '49ers,' he enjoyed
sports and participated in both football and track. He went on to spend his
life farming and ranching. Laverne passed away on September 11, 2025, at Trego
County-Lemke Memorial Hospital Long Term Care.Carolyn Mae Mohr was born June 11, 1933, on the family farm
west of WaKeeney, to Jacob and Bertha (Struss) Mohr. She was baptized and
confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. She attended Old Bosna Country School
and graduated from Trego Community High School in 1951. Carolyn loved sewing
dresses for her daughters and was known for her delicious pies, especially
coconut cream and chocolate cream. Carolyn passed away on September 12, 2025,
at her home.On December 28, 1951, Sonny and Carolyn were united in
marriage at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in WaKeeney. They made their home on the
Schoenthaler family farm, seven miles southeast of WaKeeney, where they lived
until moving to Keeney Village four years ago.Together they raised three children: Cindy, Janelle, and
Steve. They were active leaders in 4-H and members of the WaKeeney Saddle Club,
where they enjoyed participating in fairs, horse shows, and community events,
earning many trophies and ribbons along the way. Sonny served his community as
a church council member, Saddle Club officer, Trego Center School Board member,
Farmers Union officer, and for many years as a WaKeeney Township Board member.
He also worked penning cattle at the Sale Barn on Tuesdays. Carolyn contributed
her skills as secretary and bookkeeper at the WaKeeney Animal Clinic and the
WaKeeney Sale Barn office.Farming and ranching were more than just work to Sonny and
Carolyn—they were a way of life they loved. They even named many of their cows
and had favorite pets, especially their dogs, Odie and Tootsie, who rarely left
their side. In their free time, they enjoyed playing cards, bingo, and visiting
casinos. Sonny especially cherished watching their grandchildren and
great-grandchildren play sports.They are survived by their children: Steve (Heather)
Schoenthaler of WaKeeney, Cindy (Bill) Level of WaKeeney, and Janelle (Steve)
Riedy of Salina; grandchildren—Kyle (Sage) Level, Kerah (Shawn) Deines of
WaKeeney, Brent (Amber) Riedy of Andover, Shauna (Tyler) Smith of Salina, Deven
Schoenthaler of Ashland, Massachusetts, Emarie Schoenthaler of Raleigh, North
Carolina, and Noah Oborny of Iowa; great-grandchildren—Graeden and Hudson
Deines, Kamdyn Reynolds of WaKeeney, Shawna Deines and son James of Colby, Braxton,
Mason, and Jensen Riedy of Andover, and Blakely and Everly Smith of Salina;
brother Ernie (Leanna) Mohr of DeSoto, Kansas; and brother-in-law Leroy Engel
of Westminster, Colorado, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.Laverne was preceded in death by his parents; sisters
Shirley Engel and Ruth Benisch, and Ruth’s husband George. Carolyn was preceded
in death by her parents; brothers Alvin (Freida) Mohr and Martin (Ella) Mohr;
and sisters Marie (Kenneth) Lahmann and Wilma (Ernest) Dietz.Sonny and Carolyn’s lives were beautifully intertwined for
more than seventy-three years, and in God’s grace, they entered eternal rest
just one day apart—together forever as they had always been.Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday,
September 17, 2025, at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th Street, WaKeeney,
Kansas 67672. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, from 9:30
a.m. to 10:30 a.m. A procession to WaKeeney City Cemetery will immediately
follow the funeral service, where the committal will take place.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
Bethlehem Lutheran Church and sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th
Street, WaKeeney, Kansas 67672. Condolences and memories may be shared at <a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

 Laverne 'Sonny' H. Schoenthaler and Carolyn M. Mohr Schoenthaler

Richard Brown, Jr. 76, of Walker,
Kansas, died on Monday, September 08, 2025, at his home.

Richard was born on September 04,
1949, in Hays, Kansas, the son of Richard and Bertha (Windholz) Brown.&nbsp; He grew up on the family farm north of
Gorham, Kansas and graduated from Gorham High School.&nbsp; In 1969 Richard served his country by joining
the United States Army and served in the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1971, he
received numerous medals including 2 Bronze Stars with “V” devices for valor,
the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Army Commendation Medal.

After the war, he returned home,
living most of his life in the Gorham, Walker and Russell County areas.&nbsp; He was united in marriage to Sharon Peterson
and from this union, Richard was blessed with four children Jack, Gerald, and
Audrey, and Clayton from a second marrige.&nbsp;
He worked as a truck driver, was a member of the V.F.W. Post, a Wounded
Warrior supporter and loved fishing, target shooting and visiting a good pawn
shop.&nbsp; Though Richard was a private
person, he loved t talk and reminisce about the good ol days.&nbsp; He was sharp witted and funny, and love to
make people smile.&nbsp; His favorite topic of
conversation was his seven grandchildren.&nbsp;


Surviving family include his son
Jack Brown (Jamie) of Russell, Kansas, daughter Audrey Dominguez of Littleton,
Colorado and son Gerald Brown (Heidi) of Akins, South Carolina; brother Rodney
Brown (Michelle) of Gorham, Kansas, sisters Coleene Schmitt (J.W.) of Gorham,
Kansas and Galene Steckel of Russell, Kansas; seven grandchildren, Skyler,
Nolan, Brantly Brown, Meiah and Faith Dominguez, Malakai Johnson and Bodhi
Brown.

He was preceded in death by his
parents, brother Roger Brown, sister Jolene Purvis, nephew Nathan Peterka.

A celebration mass of Richard’s
life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the St.
Fidelis Catholic Church in Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp;
Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. on Monday, September 15, 2025,
at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; The vigil and rosary will be held at 7 P.M.
on September 15, 2025, at the mortuary.&nbsp;
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be given to the Richard
Brown, Jr. Trap Shooting Scholarship 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/2025/9/1757695205128.jpeg" alt="Richard Brown, Jr" />
 <figcaption>Richard Brown, Jr</figcaption>
 </figure>Richard Brown, Jr. 76, of Walker,
Kansas, died on Monday, September 08, 2025, at his home.Richard was born on September 04,
1949, in Hays, Kansas, the son of Richard and Bertha (Windholz) Brown.&nbsp; He grew up on the family farm north of
Gorham, Kansas and graduated from Gorham High School.&nbsp; In 1969 Richard served his country by joining
the United States Army and served in the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1971, he
received numerous medals including 2 Bronze Stars with “V” devices for valor,
the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Army Commendation Medal.After the war, he returned home,
living most of his life in the Gorham, Walker and Russell County areas.&nbsp; He was united in marriage to Sharon Peterson
and from this union, Richard was blessed with four children Jack, Gerald, and
Audrey, and Clayton from a second marrige.&nbsp;
He worked as a truck driver, was a member of the V.F.W. Post, a Wounded
Warrior supporter and loved fishing, target shooting and visiting a good pawn
shop.&nbsp; Though Richard was a private
person, he loved t talk and reminisce about the good ol days.&nbsp; He was sharp witted and funny, and love to
make people smile.&nbsp; His favorite topic of
conversation was his seven grandchildren.&nbsp;
Surviving family include his son
Jack Brown (Jamie) of Russell, Kansas, daughter Audrey Dominguez of Littleton,
Colorado and son Gerald Brown (Heidi) of Akins, South Carolina; brother Rodney
Brown (Michelle) of Gorham, Kansas, sisters Coleene Schmitt (J.W.) of Gorham,
Kansas and Galene Steckel of Russell, Kansas; seven grandchildren, Skyler,
Nolan, Brantly Brown, Meiah and Faith Dominguez, Malakai Johnson and Bodhi
Brown.He was preceded in death by his
parents, brother Roger Brown, sister Jolene Purvis, nephew Nathan Peterka.A celebration mass of Richard’s
life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the St.
Fidelis Catholic Church in Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp;
Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. on Monday, September 15, 2025,
at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; The vigil and rosary will be held at 7 P.M.
on September 15, 2025, at the mortuary.&nbsp;
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be given to the Richard
Brown, Jr. Trap Shooting Scholarship and sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell,
Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Richard Brown, Jr

Devota 'Dee' Irene
(Byfield) Nunn, 83, of Park City, KS, passed away on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at
the Westview of Derby Nursing Home in Derby, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dee was born on October
28, 1941, in the Old Rock House in rural Webster, Kansas, to Freeman and Violet
(Walker) Byfield. She graduated from Stockton High School in 1959. Dee retired
from Southwestern Bell and AT&amp;T after more than 20 years of service. She was
a member of the Master Gardeners and found joy in both reading and gardening
throughout her life.

She is
survived by her sons, Frank Brown of Stockton and Eric L. Brown of Park City;
daughter, Angela “Angie” (Randy) Veatch of Hutchinson, KS; brother, Gary
Byfield of Tulsa, OK; sister, Deberta Hutchison of Stockton; six grandsons; and
many nieces and nephews.

Dee was preceded in death
by her parents; husband, James Nunn; son, Tracy Brown; three brothers; one sister;
and her former husbands, Franklin Thayer and Robert L. Brown.

A Graveside Service
will be held&nbsp;on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 12:30PM at the Stockton
Cemetery in Stockton KS.

Memorials are
suggested to Stockton Library and Arbor Day Foundation and may be sent to
Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757445407758.jpeg" alt="Devota 'Dee' Irene (Byfield) Nunn" />
 <figcaption>Devota 'Dee' Irene (Byfield) Nunn</figcaption>
 </figure>Devota 'Dee' Irene
(Byfield) Nunn, 83, of Park City, KS, passed away on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at
the Westview of Derby Nursing Home in Derby, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dee was born on October
28, 1941, in the Old Rock House in rural Webster, Kansas, to Freeman and Violet
(Walker) Byfield. She graduated from Stockton High School in 1959. Dee retired
from Southwestern Bell and AT&amp;T after more than 20 years of service. She was
a member of the Master Gardeners and found joy in both reading and gardening
throughout her life.She is
survived by her sons, Frank Brown of Stockton and Eric L. Brown of Park City;
daughter, Angela “Angie” (Randy) Veatch of Hutchinson, KS; brother, Gary
Byfield of Tulsa, OK; sister, Deberta Hutchison of Stockton; six grandsons; and
many nieces and nephews.Dee was preceded in death
by her parents; husband, James Nunn; son, Tracy Brown; three brothers; one sister;
and her former husbands, Franklin Thayer and Robert L. Brown.A Graveside Service
will be held&nbsp;on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 12:30PM at the Stockton
Cemetery in Stockton KS.Memorials are
suggested to Stockton Library and Arbor Day Foundation and may be sent to
Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669. Online condolences
may be left for the family at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

Devota 'Dee' Irene (Byfield) Nunn

Teresa
Clementine 'Clemmie' (Robben) Montoia, 97, of Norton, KS passed away September
8, 2025 in Norton, KS. She was born December 18, 1927 in Norton, KS to Clemens
and Katherine (Wieland) Robben. 

Clemmie
grew up in Norton and was a Norton Community High School graduate, class of
1947. After graduation, she did the bookkeeping for her father at Norton
Manufacturing, as well as Seymore Packing Company, and Gamble Robinson Company.
She married Paul A. Montoia of Cuba, New Mexico, on May 1, 1950. Clemmie and
Paul opened the A&amp;W Drive-In in 1958. Over the years, Clemmie did the
bookkeeping for all of their business endeavors, including: Fairmont Milk
Route, Phillips 66 Service Station, Westland Home Sales, Silvaire Club, PAM
Backhoe and Trenching, and Paul’s catering. With her by his side, Paul, and her
family thrived. “Behind every great man is a great woman”, is a quote that
signifies Clemmie. She later worked for First Security Bank, now Solutions North
Bank, in Norton for 20 years as a teller, bookkeeper, and cashier. Clemmie was
a lifetime member of Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and St Francis
Altar Society. She enjoyed playing cards with her bridge club, dancing, and
social activities with friends. She always enjoyed reading books and as her
eyesight made reading difficult, she gravitated to audio books and games on her
iPad, which never left her side.&nbsp; She also enjoyed watching Jeopardy every
day with a snack of Cheetos and a wee glass of Scotch. During Jeopardy she
always claimed she could get more answers right if she only had a few extra
seconds.&nbsp; 

Clemmie
is survived by her 4 children: Paul and wife Leila (Bingaman) Montoia of
Farmington; NM, Tom Montoia of Zurich, KS; Jeanette and husband Gary Lacy of
Norton, KS; Ted and wife Barbara (Engelken) Montoia of St. Louis, MO; 9
grandchildren: Paul, Samuel, and Jayna Montoia; Tyson, Carissa, and Claudia
Lacy; and Erin, Samantha and Dominic Montoia; 16 great grandchildren, and many
other relatives. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Paul in
2020 after 70 years of marriage and her siblings: Catherine Felton, Mary Moore,
Hubert Robben, Pauline Robben, Helen Liddle, and Anna Unrein. 

A Wake
Service and Rosary will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, September 13, 2025 at the
funeral home. Burial will follow in the Norton Cemetery. Memorial contributions
may be made to the Norton Public Library for audio books and may be 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">www.plumergobber.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757520742756.jpeg" alt="Teresa Clementine 'Clemmie' (Robben) Montoia" />
 <figcaption>Teresa Clementine 'Clemmie' (Robben) Montoia</figcaption>
 </figure>Teresa
Clementine 'Clemmie' (Robben) Montoia, 97, of Norton, KS passed away September
8, 2025 in Norton, KS. She was born December 18, 1927 in Norton, KS to Clemens
and Katherine (Wieland) Robben. Clemmie
grew up in Norton and was a Norton Community High School graduate, class of
1947. After graduation, she did the bookkeeping for her father at Norton
Manufacturing, as well as Seymore Packing Company, and Gamble Robinson Company.
She married Paul A. Montoia of Cuba, New Mexico, on May 1, 1950. Clemmie and
Paul opened the A&amp;W Drive-In in 1958. Over the years, Clemmie did the
bookkeeping for all of their business endeavors, including: Fairmont Milk
Route, Phillips 66 Service Station, Westland Home Sales, Silvaire Club, PAM
Backhoe and Trenching, and Paul’s catering. With her by his side, Paul, and her
family thrived. “Behind every great man is a great woman”, is a quote that
signifies Clemmie. She later worked for First Security Bank, now Solutions North
Bank, in Norton for 20 years as a teller, bookkeeper, and cashier. Clemmie was
a lifetime member of Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and St Francis
Altar Society. She enjoyed playing cards with her bridge club, dancing, and
social activities with friends. She always enjoyed reading books and as her
eyesight made reading difficult, she gravitated to audio books and games on her
iPad, which never left her side.&nbsp; She also enjoyed watching Jeopardy every
day with a snack of Cheetos and a wee glass of Scotch. During Jeopardy she
always claimed she could get more answers right if she only had a few extra
seconds.&nbsp; Clemmie
is survived by her 4 children: Paul and wife Leila (Bingaman) Montoia of
Farmington; NM, Tom Montoia of Zurich, KS; Jeanette and husband Gary Lacy of
Norton, KS; Ted and wife Barbara (Engelken) Montoia of St. Louis, MO; 9
grandchildren: Paul, Samuel, and Jayna Montoia; Tyson, Carissa, and Claudia
Lacy; and Erin, Samantha and Dominic Montoia; 16 great grandchildren, and many
other relatives. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Paul in
2020 after 70 years of marriage and her siblings: Catherine Felton, Mary Moore,
Hubert Robben, Pauline Robben, Helen Liddle, and Anna Unrein. A Wake
Service and Rosary will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, September 13, 2025 at the
funeral home. Burial will follow in the Norton Cemetery. Memorial contributions
may be made to the Norton Public Library for audio books and may be 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">www.plumergobber.com</a>

Teresa Clementine 'Clemmie' (Robben) Montoia

Deborah Joyce Watson, age 74, passed away on September 6,
2025, at Hays Med in Hays, Kansas.

Deb was born on September 14, 1950, in Tribune, Kansas, the
beloved daughter of Fred Dale and Elaine (Ingram) Watson.

She dedicated many years of her life to the McCracken School
System as a janitor and took pride in beautifying homes throughout the area
with her skilled painting. 

She shared over 40 wonderful years with her husband, Craig
Rixon, the love of her life. Their devotion to each other was an inspiration to
all who knew them.

Deb is survived by her loving husband, Craig, of McCracken;
her mother, Elaine, of Hays; and her three daughters: Jamie Lynn Sewell of El
Dorado, Shelly Rae DuNah of McCracken, and Tammy Jo Yoke and husband Daniel of
Wichita. She also leaves behind three sisters: Leann (Walter) Hughes of Oakley,
Janice (Bill) Bradstreet of Oakley, and Vanessa (Henry) Reed of Kalvesta; as
well as sisters-in-law Peggy Smith of Jewel and Joy Petz of McCracken.

Deb’s legacy lives on in her 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.

She was preceded in death by her father, Fred; her son,
Verlin Todd Sewell; her brother, Roger Watson; and her son-in-law, Jason DuNah.

A funeral service to celebrate Deb’s life will be held on
Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the McCracken Methodist Church,
with burial to follow at the McCracken Cemetery.

Friends are invited to pay their respects and sign the guest
book at Fitzgerald Funeral Home in Ness City on Friday, September 12, 2025,
from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Deb’s honor may be made to the
McCracken Methodist Church.

Words of sympathy and support may be left for the family at
www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757440614708.jpeg" alt="Deborah Joyce Watson" />
 <figcaption>Deborah Joyce Watson</figcaption>
 </figure>Deborah Joyce Watson, age 74, passed away on September 6,
2025, at Hays Med in Hays, Kansas.Deb was born on September 14, 1950, in Tribune, Kansas, the
beloved daughter of Fred Dale and Elaine (Ingram) Watson.She dedicated many years of her life to the McCracken School
System as a janitor and took pride in beautifying homes throughout the area
with her skilled painting. She shared over 40 wonderful years with her husband, Craig
Rixon, the love of her life. Their devotion to each other was an inspiration to
all who knew them.Deb is survived by her loving husband, Craig, of McCracken;
her mother, Elaine, of Hays; and her three daughters: Jamie Lynn Sewell of El
Dorado, Shelly Rae DuNah of McCracken, and Tammy Jo Yoke and husband Daniel of
Wichita. She also leaves behind three sisters: Leann (Walter) Hughes of Oakley,
Janice (Bill) Bradstreet of Oakley, and Vanessa (Henry) Reed of Kalvesta; as
well as sisters-in-law Peggy Smith of Jewel and Joy Petz of McCracken.Deb’s legacy lives on in her 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.She was preceded in death by her father, Fred; her son,
Verlin Todd Sewell; her brother, Roger Watson; and her son-in-law, Jason DuNah.A funeral service to celebrate Deb’s life will be held on
Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the McCracken Methodist Church,
with burial to follow at the McCracken Cemetery.Friends are invited to pay their respects and sign the guest
book at Fitzgerald Funeral Home in Ness City on Friday, September 12, 2025,
from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.Memorial contributions in Deb’s honor may be made to the
McCracken Methodist Church.Words of sympathy and support may be left for the family at
www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

Deborah Joyce Watson

Jean
Rietcheck, of Grinnell, KS, died Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the Logan
County Senior Living, Oakley, KS. She was 98 years old. 

Jean
was born on August 18, 1927, on the family farm north of Angelus, KS. She was
the youngest of 14 children born to Barney and Regina (Robben) Dickman. 

She
married Jim Rietcheck on November 4, 1947, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church,
Angelus, KS. To this union five children were born, Ronnie, Dan, Jolene, Linda
and Kay. 

Jeannie
was a devoted wife and mother; her family were always her top priority. She was
very active in volunteer work with the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Cub and Boy
Scouts, and various church activities. She was a devoted Catholic and vary
rarely missed Sunday Mass. 

Jean
was preceded in death by her husband Jim; her in-laws, Frank and Josephine
Rietcheck; her brothers and spouses, John (Lucille) Dickman, Tony (Phyllis)
Dickman, Msgr. Bernard Dickman, Vince (Ferne) Dickman, Bob (Eunice) Dickman, Ed
(Theresa) Dickman, Gilbert (Juanita) Dickman, Dave (Laureen) Dickman and Al
(Verlene) Dickman; sisters and spouses, Sister Regina Marie, Walburga (Joe)
Albers, Sister Mary Martha and Martha (Jack) Hamer; and brother-in-law Richard
Rietcheck.

She
is survived by her five children, Ronnie (Elsie) Rietcheck, Menlo, KS, Dan
(Carol) Rietcheck, Grinnell, KS, Jolene (Wayne) Beckman, Manhattan, KS, Lynn
(Tom) Heinrich, Grinnell, KS and Kay Rietcheck, Hays, KS; sister-in-law Judith
Rietcheck, Wichita, KS; 11 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, and 7
great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A
Rosary will be said Monday, September 15, 2025, at 1:30p.m. at the Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Grinnell, KS. The Funeral Mass will follow at 2:00
p.m. with burial in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Grinnell. Memorials may
be made to the Grinnell Cemetery Fund, to replace the American flags at the
cemetery that were destroyed by a recent tornado, and sent in care of Baalmann
Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757600263703.jpeg" alt="Jean Rietcheck" />
 <figcaption>Jean Rietcheck</figcaption>
 </figure>Jean
Rietcheck, of Grinnell, KS, died Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the Logan
County Senior Living, Oakley, KS. She was 98 years old. Jean
was born on August 18, 1927, on the family farm north of Angelus, KS. She was
the youngest of 14 children born to Barney and Regina (Robben) Dickman. She
married Jim Rietcheck on November 4, 1947, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church,
Angelus, KS. To this union five children were born, Ronnie, Dan, Jolene, Linda
and Kay. Jeannie
was a devoted wife and mother; her family were always her top priority. She was
very active in volunteer work with the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Cub and Boy
Scouts, and various church activities. She was a devoted Catholic and vary
rarely missed Sunday Mass. Jean
was preceded in death by her husband Jim; her in-laws, Frank and Josephine
Rietcheck; her brothers and spouses, John (Lucille) Dickman, Tony (Phyllis)
Dickman, Msgr. Bernard Dickman, Vince (Ferne) Dickman, Bob (Eunice) Dickman, Ed
(Theresa) Dickman, Gilbert (Juanita) Dickman, Dave (Laureen) Dickman and Al
(Verlene) Dickman; sisters and spouses, Sister Regina Marie, Walburga (Joe)
Albers, Sister Mary Martha and Martha (Jack) Hamer; and brother-in-law Richard
Rietcheck.She
is survived by her five children, Ronnie (Elsie) Rietcheck, Menlo, KS, Dan
(Carol) Rietcheck, Grinnell, KS, Jolene (Wayne) Beckman, Manhattan, KS, Lynn
(Tom) Heinrich, Grinnell, KS and Kay Rietcheck, Hays, KS; sister-in-law Judith
Rietcheck, Wichita, KS; 11 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, and 7
great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.A
Rosary will be said Monday, September 15, 2025, at 1:30p.m. at the Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Grinnell, KS. The Funeral Mass will follow at 2:00
p.m. with burial in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Grinnell. Memorials may
be made to the Grinnell Cemetery Fund, to replace the American flags at the
cemetery that were destroyed by a recent tornado, and sent in care of Baalmann
Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

Jean Rietcheck

Lori Ann Flesher, 59, Hays, died Monday, September 8, 2025
at her home.

She was born November 10, 1965 in Goodland, the daughter of
Neal Walter and Lorena Marie (Charbonneau) Flesher.&nbsp; Lori graduated from Thomas More Prep-Marian
High School with the class of 1984, and she worked at Golden Belt Bank.

Survivors include her mother, Lorena Flesher of El Dorado,
three brothers, Michael Flesher and wife Paula of Hays, Steven Flesher and wife
Vicki of Wichita, and Kevin Flesher and wife Barbara of Westminster, Colorado,
and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday,
September 17, 2025 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Nick
Parker officiating.&nbsp; The family will
receive friends from 10:00 am until service time with recitation of the rosary
at 10:30, all on Wednesday at the church.&nbsp;
Inurnment will be at a later date in St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society
of the High Plains or for masses.&nbsp; Services
are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and
memories of Lori may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756479509201.jpg" alt="chrysanthemum, flower background, white, nature, flower wallpaper, flower, korean funeral, beautiful flowers, chrysanthemum morifolium, close up" />
 <figcaption>chrysanthemum, flower background, white, nature, flower wallpaper, flower, korean funeral, beautiful flowers, chrysanthemum morifolium, close up</figcaption>
 </figure>Lori Ann Flesher, 59, Hays, died Monday, September 8, 2025
at her home.She was born November 10, 1965 in Goodland, the daughter of
Neal Walter and Lorena Marie (Charbonneau) Flesher.&nbsp; Lori graduated from Thomas More Prep-Marian
High School with the class of 1984, and she worked at Golden Belt Bank.Survivors include her mother, Lorena Flesher of El Dorado,
three brothers, Michael Flesher and wife Paula of Hays, Steven Flesher and wife
Vicki of Wichita, and Kevin Flesher and wife Barbara of Westminster, Colorado,
and numerous nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her father.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday,
September 17, 2025 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Nick
Parker officiating.&nbsp; The family will
receive friends from 10:00 am until service time with recitation of the rosary
at 10:30, all on Wednesday at the church.&nbsp;
Inurnment will be at a later date in St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society
of the High Plains or for masses.&nbsp; Services
are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and
memories of Lori may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Lori Ann Flesher

Gary Lee Schlyer age 79, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on
Saturday, September 6, 2025.

He
was born April 17, 1946, in Hays, Kansas, to William 'Bill' and Mary VonFeldt
Schlyer.

Gary grew up in Hays, and attended Saint Joseph Military Academy, and was a
1964 graduate of Hays High School.

He owned and operated Gary’s Body Shop in Hays and Lucas from 1970 to 1976, he
then did body work part-time.&nbsp; He then was a welder and a machinist at
Farley’s Machine Shop in Russell from 1976 to 1997.&nbsp; Gary later moved to
Wichita, which he managed, and was a machinist at Nance Manufacturing until his
retirement.

Gary was a member of Saint Jude Catholic Church, and attended Saint Catherine
of Sienna Catholic Church of Wichita.&nbsp; He also was a member of the
Adoration Chapel.

Gary married Linda (Rohr) and to this union was born three children, Lisa;
Lori; and Lambert. He later married Karen (Staggs) in January of 2000, in
Wichita, and gained three step children.

Gary is survived by his wife, Karen, of Wichita and her three children; his
daughters, Lisa Dudenhoeffer and husband, Dan, St. Louis, MO; Lori Brungardt
and husband, Glenn, Lawrence, KS; his grandchildren, Mckenzie Carlgren and her
husband, Dawson; Lane Brungardt; Scarlett Harmon; his great granddaughter,
Westyn Carlgren; his sister, LaVera Peacock, NV; his children’s mother, Linda
Height and husband, James. &nbsp;

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, William 'Bill' and Mary Schlyer; and
his step father, Ray Hammerschmidt; his son, Lambert Schlyer; his brother,
Virgil Schlyer, his sisters, JoAnn Combs; and Rita Taggert.

A private family graveside inurnment will be at 1:30 P.M. Friday, September 12, 2025 at Saint
Joseph Cemetery, Hays, Kansas.

The family will receive friends from 11:30 A.M. to 1:15 P.M. at
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.

The family suggests memorials made payable to Kansas Humane Society, Wichita,
or Food Pantry at Saint Jude Catholic Church, Wichita, in care of&nbsp;
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays,
Kansas 67601.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757528570105.jpeg" alt="Gary Lee Schlyer" />
 <figcaption>Gary Lee Schlyer</figcaption>
 </figure>Gary Lee Schlyer age 79, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on
Saturday, September 6, 2025.He
was born April 17, 1946, in Hays, Kansas, to William 'Bill' and Mary VonFeldt
Schlyer.Gary grew up in Hays, and attended Saint Joseph Military Academy, and was a
1964 graduate of Hays High School.He owned and operated Gary’s Body Shop in Hays and Lucas from 1970 to 1976, he
then did body work part-time.&nbsp; He then was a welder and a machinist at
Farley’s Machine Shop in Russell from 1976 to 1997.&nbsp; Gary later moved to
Wichita, which he managed, and was a machinist at Nance Manufacturing until his
retirement.Gary was a member of Saint Jude Catholic Church, and attended Saint Catherine
of Sienna Catholic Church of Wichita.&nbsp; He also was a member of the
Adoration Chapel.Gary married Linda (Rohr) and to this union was born three children, Lisa;
Lori; and Lambert. He later married Karen (Staggs) in January of 2000, in
Wichita, and gained three step children.Gary is survived by his wife, Karen, of Wichita and her three children; his
daughters, Lisa Dudenhoeffer and husband, Dan, St. Louis, MO; Lori Brungardt
and husband, Glenn, Lawrence, KS; his grandchildren, Mckenzie Carlgren and her
husband, Dawson; Lane Brungardt; Scarlett Harmon; his great granddaughter,
Westyn Carlgren; his sister, LaVera Peacock, NV; his children’s mother, Linda
Height and husband, James. &nbsp;Gary is preceded in death by his parents, William 'Bill' and Mary Schlyer; and
his step father, Ray Hammerschmidt; his son, Lambert Schlyer; his brother,
Virgil Schlyer, his sisters, JoAnn Combs; and Rita Taggert.A private family graveside inurnment will be at 1:30 P.M. Friday, September 12, 2025 at Saint
Joseph Cemetery, Hays, Kansas.The family will receive friends from 11:30 A.M. to 1:15 P.M. at
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.The family suggests memorials made payable to Kansas Humane Society, Wichita,
or Food Pantry at Saint Jude Catholic Church, Wichita, in care of&nbsp;
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays,
Kansas 67601.&nbsp;Condolences
can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Gary Lee Schlyer

Delven Lee Kraft, 89,
passed away on August 8, 2025 at the Grisell Memorial Hospital in Ransom,
Kansas.&nbsp; He was born on April 24, 1936 on
the farm in Trego County, Kansas the son of Jacob and Eva (Eichman) Kraft.

Delven was a farmer and
stockman. He married Vivian Hoover on June 2nd, 1956, in Ness City, Kansas. 

Survivors include his wife,
Vivian Kraft of Ransom; daughter, Renata Kraft of Hays; son, Lee Kraft of
Ransom; daughter, Michele Nuttle of Utica; 4 grandchildren, Ryan Kraft, Codi
Kraft, Dalton Nuttle, Dylan Nuttle; 5 great-grandchildren, Blake Nuttle, Logan
Nuttle, Bodhi Kraft, Taegen Kraft, London Gutierrez; and sister, Helen Wagner
of Ness City. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Herman, Reinhold,
Paul, and Hubert; sisters Darlene Cody and Betty Birzer.

A Celebration of Life will
be held at the Ransom VFW, Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 5:30pm.

Memorial contributions may
be given to the Ransom, KS VFW Post No. 7972, grandson’s
nonprofit “Forgotten Stewardship”, or Donor's Choice.

Words of sympathy and support may be left for
the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757518892172.jpeg" alt="Delven Lee Kraft" />
 <figcaption>Delven Lee Kraft</figcaption>
 </figure>Delven Lee Kraft, 89,
passed away on August 8, 2025 at the Grisell Memorial Hospital in Ransom,
Kansas.&nbsp; He was born on April 24, 1936 on
the farm in Trego County, Kansas the son of Jacob and Eva (Eichman) Kraft.Delven was a farmer and
stockman. He married Vivian Hoover on June 2nd, 1956, in Ness City, Kansas. Survivors include his wife,
Vivian Kraft of Ransom; daughter, Renata Kraft of Hays; son, Lee Kraft of
Ransom; daughter, Michele Nuttle of Utica; 4 grandchildren, Ryan Kraft, Codi
Kraft, Dalton Nuttle, Dylan Nuttle; 5 great-grandchildren, Blake Nuttle, Logan
Nuttle, Bodhi Kraft, Taegen Kraft, London Gutierrez; and sister, Helen Wagner
of Ness City. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Herman, Reinhold,
Paul, and Hubert; sisters Darlene Cody and Betty Birzer.A Celebration of Life will
be held at the Ransom VFW, Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 5:30pm.Memorial contributions may
be given to the Ransom, KS VFW Post No. 7972, grandson’s
nonprofit “Forgotten Stewardship”, or Donor's Choice.Words of sympathy and support may be left for
the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

Delven Lee Kraft

John Michael Kolacny, age 78 of Ellis, Kansas died Monday,
September 8, 2025, at Hays Med - Hays.

John was born on March 12, 1947, in Kansas City, Missouri. His
parents were Charles Sherman and Roberta (Hauetter) Kolacny. In 1968 he married
Elizabeth 'Liz' Rowland in Lawrence, Kansas.

He was an accomplished gardener, always paying strict attention to
his rose bushes knowing they needed constant sunlight, and nutrients to reach
their potential. He not only grew great roses but also cultivated and grew
young boys and girls into great men and women as a 33-year educator and coach
with USD 388. He had a profound impact on many students and athletes during his
teaching/coaching career until his retirement in 2005.

He led the Ellis Railroader Golf Team to a State Championship in
1983 and was named State of Kansas Golf Coach of the Year in 2002-2003.

John was a man of faith and passed on to his posterity the values
of doing things right, being kind to people, and trusting in God.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Liz; their children:
Callie Kolacny of Hays, Kansas, and Jarrett (Savanah) Kolacny of Grand
Junction, Colorado. Grandchildren: Grace (Jake) Sebesta, Tenaya Kolacny, and
Teyana Kolacny, and a great-grandson: Erik Sebesta all of Grand Junction,
Colorado. Also surviving are his siblings: Charles Sherman Kolacny, III of
Abilene, Kansas and Louise Kolacny of Berthoud, Colorado.

Memorial Services will be Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 1:30 PM
at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street
Hays, Kansas 67601. Following the memorial service, friends are invited to join
the family at the Ellis Golf Club, 1301 Spruce Street Ellis, Kansas 67637
beginning at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to: The Ellis High
School Railroader Golf Team and/or The Ellis Golf Club in care of the Funeral
Chapel.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757468306214.jpeg" alt="John Michael Kolacny" />
 <figcaption>John Michael Kolacny</figcaption>
 </figure>John Michael Kolacny, age 78 of Ellis, Kansas died Monday,
September 8, 2025, at Hays Med - Hays.John was born on March 12, 1947, in Kansas City, Missouri. His
parents were Charles Sherman and Roberta (Hauetter) Kolacny. In 1968 he married
Elizabeth 'Liz' Rowland in Lawrence, Kansas.He was an accomplished gardener, always paying strict attention to
his rose bushes knowing they needed constant sunlight, and nutrients to reach
their potential. He not only grew great roses but also cultivated and grew
young boys and girls into great men and women as a 33-year educator and coach
with USD 388. He had a profound impact on many students and athletes during his
teaching/coaching career until his retirement in 2005.He led the Ellis Railroader Golf Team to a State Championship in
1983 and was named State of Kansas Golf Coach of the Year in 2002-2003.John was a man of faith and passed on to his posterity the values
of doing things right, being kind to people, and trusting in God.He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Liz; their children:
Callie Kolacny of Hays, Kansas, and Jarrett (Savanah) Kolacny of Grand
Junction, Colorado. Grandchildren: Grace (Jake) Sebesta, Tenaya Kolacny, and
Teyana Kolacny, and a great-grandson: Erik Sebesta all of Grand Junction,
Colorado. Also surviving are his siblings: Charles Sherman Kolacny, III of
Abilene, Kansas and Louise Kolacny of Berthoud, Colorado.John was preceded by his parents.Memorial Services will be Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 1:30 PM
at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street
Hays, Kansas 67601. Following the memorial service, friends are invited to join
the family at the Ellis Golf Club, 1301 Spruce Street Ellis, Kansas 67637
beginning at 3:00 PM.In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to: The Ellis High
School Railroader Golf Team and/or The Ellis Golf Club in care of the Funeral
Chapel.Memories and words of comfort may be shared with John's family on
his tribute page via:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

John Michael Kolacny

Jerry Lee Byrd, age 77, of Beeler, KS, passed away on
September 4, 2025, at HaysMed in Hays, KS. Jerry was born on June 13, 1948, in
Emporia, KS. He was the son of George Robert (Bob) Byrd and Dorothy Mae
Scharff. He met the love of his life, Linda Jane Selves and they were united in
marriage in Hutchinson, KS on June 3, 1968.

Jerry was a lifelong rancher, cattle buyer and land trader.
He had a strong work ethic. He enjoyed life, believed in God and loved his
family. Everything he did was to provide for his family. His grandchildren were
his pride and joy. Jerry was happiest when he was around family and friends. He
also loved to play pitch, watch sports and ride horses.&nbsp;

He is survived by his wife, Linda J. (Selves) Byrd; his
children Traci Scott and husband Roger of Burdett, KS, Kristi Williams and
husband Chad of Victoria, KS and John Byrd and wife Tiffany of Beeler, KS; his
grandchildren Tyler Ralls, Payton Rice and his wife Kristen, Jake Byrd, Kade
Scott, Kylee Scott, Shelby Scott, and Hazen Byrd.&nbsp;

Memorial services will be on Friday September 12, 2025, at
4:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Ness City, KS.&nbsp;

Friends can sign the book at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on
Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Arrowhead
West, Inc. 1100 E Wyatt Earp Blvd, Dodge City, KS 67801 or to Children's Mercy
Hospital, Adele Hall Campus, 2401 Gillham Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108.

Memories and words of support may be left for the family by
writing in the guestbook at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757436676092.jpeg" alt="Jerry Lee Byrd" />
 <figcaption>Jerry Lee Byrd</figcaption>
 </figure>Jerry Lee Byrd, age 77, of Beeler, KS, passed away on
September 4, 2025, at HaysMed in Hays, KS. Jerry was born on June 13, 1948, in
Emporia, KS. He was the son of George Robert (Bob) Byrd and Dorothy Mae
Scharff. He met the love of his life, Linda Jane Selves and they were united in
marriage in Hutchinson, KS on June 3, 1968.Jerry was a lifelong rancher, cattle buyer and land trader.
He had a strong work ethic. He enjoyed life, believed in God and loved his
family. Everything he did was to provide for his family. His grandchildren were
his pride and joy. Jerry was happiest when he was around family and friends. He
also loved to play pitch, watch sports and ride horses.&nbsp;He is survived by his wife, Linda J. (Selves) Byrd; his
children Traci Scott and husband Roger of Burdett, KS, Kristi Williams and
husband Chad of Victoria, KS and John Byrd and wife Tiffany of Beeler, KS; his
grandchildren Tyler Ralls, Payton Rice and his wife Kristen, Jake Byrd, Kade
Scott, Kylee Scott, Shelby Scott, and Hazen Byrd.&nbsp;Memorial services will be on Friday September 12, 2025, at
4:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Ness City, KS.&nbsp;Friends can sign the book at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on
Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Arrowhead
West, Inc. 1100 E Wyatt Earp Blvd, Dodge City, KS 67801 or to Children's Mercy
Hospital, Adele Hall Campus, 2401 Gillham Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108.Memories and words of support may be left for the family by
writing in the guestbook at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com

Jerry Lee Byrd

Priscilla F. Rorstrom of Hays, Kansas passed away peacefully
in her sleep on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Via Christi Village.&nbsp; She was 88 years old.&nbsp; 

Priscilla was born on March 26, 1937 in Boston,
Massachusetts, the daughter of Ralph Irving Freeman and Ella Brewster (Cornish)
Freeman.&nbsp; Priscilla grew up on Cape Cod
in the town of Sandwich, Massachusetts at Bay View Farm, a property that had
been in her family for generations.&nbsp; As a
child she was surrounded by extended family.&nbsp;
Along with her parents and younger brother, Irving, various aunts,
uncles and grandparents also shared the house at different times.&nbsp; The home was the center of frequent family gatherings
involving the greater extended family from nearby towns on the Cape and beyond.&nbsp; There are numerous stories of childhood
adventures with her brother and cousins at the beach and on the farm.&nbsp; Her high school class had only six class
members; therefore, she played flute in the local Shawme Orchestra.&nbsp; She was also active in the Camp Fire Girls
and was the scorekeeper for the school basketball team.

After high school, Priscilla attended Framingham State
Teachers College, where she graduated in 1959 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Home
Economics.&nbsp; After college she worked with
special needs children at the Riverview School in Sandwich from 1959 to 1960.&nbsp; On October 15, 1960 she was united in
marriage to Eric G. Rorstrom at the Federated Church in Sandwich.&nbsp; Eric and her brother were fraternity brothers
at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, which facilitated their meeting.&nbsp; After marriage, the couple rented a small
house in Holden, Massachusetts.&nbsp; Shortly
thereafter, Eric was called into the Army Reserves at the onset of the Berlin
Wall Crisis.&nbsp; She gave birth to their
first child, James, in August of 1961 while Eric was stationed at Fort Dix, New
Jersey.&nbsp; Subsequently, she returned to
the Cape with her baby to live with her parents in Sandwich until Eric was
discharged from the Reserves following the second Berlin Wall crisis in 1962.&nbsp; Being able to now resume a normal life, Eric
pursued his career as a mechanical engineer at the Riley Stoker Corporation in
Worcester, Massachusetts and they purchased a home in Holden, Massachusetts.&nbsp; Priscilla chose to continue as a stay at home
mom and was involved with the choir at the Holden Baptist Church.&nbsp; She gave birth to their second child, John,
in 1965.

In 1967, Eric began employment with the Pratt &amp; Whitney
Aircraft Corporation and the family relocated to Marlborough, Connecticut.&nbsp; They became members of the Marlborough
Congregational Church and then, in 1978, became members of Trinity Covenant
Church in Manchester, Connecticut.&nbsp; They
were active in the choir, Bible studies, prayer groups and served in various
leadership capacities at both churches.&nbsp; Priscilla
was also active in the local PTA and was a room mother for both boys as they
progressed through elementary school.&nbsp; She
enjoyed flower gardening and was an active member of the Marlborough Garden
Club for many years, receiving awards for her flower arrangements at the annual
house and garden tour.&nbsp; She was highly
skilled at sewing, embroidery, knitting and crocheting.&nbsp; She utilized her skills to produce much of
her own clothing, sport coats for Eric, costumes for the boys, Scandinavian
style sweaters and decorative items.&nbsp; Priscilla’s
love of music resulted in her embracing the recorder in the mid 1970’s.&nbsp; After becoming proficient at the instrument,
she joined the Lake Consort.&nbsp; The group
performed their repertoire of music from the Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque
periods at churches and other venues into the late 1980’s.&nbsp; These years were also marked by the annual
family camping trips to the White Mountains and, in 1978, a month long motor
home adventure tour of the U.S.

In 1979, with the oldest son entering college, Priscilla
decided to return to work and took a position as the secretary in the high
school audio visual department.&nbsp; She
remained there until 1988, at which point she became a secretary at Trinity
Covenant Church and remained in that capacity until retirement.&nbsp; In the following years she enjoyed continuing
in her many activities and frequent visits to the family homestead on the Cape.


She also enjoyed traveling with Eric to Maine, Prince Edward
Island and England as well as trips to see her sons and their families in
Kansas and New Hampshire.&nbsp; Grandchildren
had begun to arrive a few years earlier, in 1995.&nbsp; As this next generation grew, she enjoyed
sharing her faith, wisdom, skills, life stories and extensive family history
with them. 

Throughout their 55 years in Marlborough, Priscilla was
known for her love of hospitality and entertaining - blessing family and
friends with sumptuous meals at their home, contributing to church suppers,
making meals for shut-ins and the bereaved, as well as welcoming new families
to the neighborhood with a fresh-baked loaf of bread and other goodies.

In 2022, Priscilla moved with her husband Eric to Hays, Kansas
to be closer to her family.&nbsp; In Hays they
have been involved with the North Oak Community Church and have enjoyed making
friends in the church and community.&nbsp; 

Priscilla is survived by her husband Eric of Hays, two sons
- James Rorstrom and wife Jane of Hays and John Rorstrom and wife Theresa of
Austin, TX, her brother - Irving Freeman and wife Carolyn of Sandwich, MA, four
grandchildren - Katarina Clinton and husband Mark of Southern Pines, NC, Hans
Rorstrom and wife Hannah of Claremore, OK, Eric Rorstrom of Kansas City, MO,
and Carl Rorstrom of Lawrence, KS.&nbsp; There
are three great grandchildren - Hope, Svea, and Cathan. She was preceded in
death by her parents.

A memorial service will be at 2:30 pm on Saturday, September
13, 2025 at North Oak Community Church with Pastor Dave Kumer
officiating.&nbsp; The family will receive friends from 1:30 pm until service
time at the church.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be in Spring Hill
Cemetery in Sandwich, Massachusetts.&nbsp; 

In lieu of flowers, memorial
donations are suggested sent to: North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St.,
Hays, KS&nbsp; 67601.&nbsp; Write: “Memorial – Priscilla” on the memo
line.&nbsp; Funds will be used to support mission outreaches.&nbsp; 

Services
are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and
memories of Priscilla may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756472469112.jpeg" alt="Priscilla F. Rorstrom" />
 <figcaption>Priscilla F. Rorstrom</figcaption>
 </figure>Priscilla F. Rorstrom of Hays, Kansas passed away peacefully
in her sleep on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Via Christi Village.&nbsp; She was 88 years old.&nbsp; Priscilla was born on March 26, 1937 in Boston,
Massachusetts, the daughter of Ralph Irving Freeman and Ella Brewster (Cornish)
Freeman.&nbsp; Priscilla grew up on Cape Cod
in the town of Sandwich, Massachusetts at Bay View Farm, a property that had
been in her family for generations.&nbsp; As a
child she was surrounded by extended family.&nbsp;
Along with her parents and younger brother, Irving, various aunts,
uncles and grandparents also shared the house at different times.&nbsp; The home was the center of frequent family gatherings
involving the greater extended family from nearby towns on the Cape and beyond.&nbsp; There are numerous stories of childhood
adventures with her brother and cousins at the beach and on the farm.&nbsp; Her high school class had only six class
members; therefore, she played flute in the local Shawme Orchestra.&nbsp; She was also active in the Camp Fire Girls
and was the scorekeeper for the school basketball team.After high school, Priscilla attended Framingham State
Teachers College, where she graduated in 1959 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Home
Economics.&nbsp; After college she worked with
special needs children at the Riverview School in Sandwich from 1959 to 1960.&nbsp; On October 15, 1960 she was united in
marriage to Eric G. Rorstrom at the Federated Church in Sandwich.&nbsp; Eric and her brother were fraternity brothers
at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, which facilitated their meeting.&nbsp; After marriage, the couple rented a small
house in Holden, Massachusetts.&nbsp; Shortly
thereafter, Eric was called into the Army Reserves at the onset of the Berlin
Wall Crisis.&nbsp; She gave birth to their
first child, James, in August of 1961 while Eric was stationed at Fort Dix, New
Jersey.&nbsp; Subsequently, she returned to
the Cape with her baby to live with her parents in Sandwich until Eric was
discharged from the Reserves following the second Berlin Wall crisis in 1962.&nbsp; Being able to now resume a normal life, Eric
pursued his career as a mechanical engineer at the Riley Stoker Corporation in
Worcester, Massachusetts and they purchased a home in Holden, Massachusetts.&nbsp; Priscilla chose to continue as a stay at home
mom and was involved with the choir at the Holden Baptist Church.&nbsp; She gave birth to their second child, John,
in 1965.In 1967, Eric began employment with the Pratt &amp; Whitney
Aircraft Corporation and the family relocated to Marlborough, Connecticut.&nbsp; They became members of the Marlborough
Congregational Church and then, in 1978, became members of Trinity Covenant
Church in Manchester, Connecticut.&nbsp; They
were active in the choir, Bible studies, prayer groups and served in various
leadership capacities at both churches.&nbsp; Priscilla
was also active in the local PTA and was a room mother for both boys as they
progressed through elementary school.&nbsp; She
enjoyed flower gardening and was an active member of the Marlborough Garden
Club for many years, receiving awards for her flower arrangements at the annual
house and garden tour.&nbsp; She was highly
skilled at sewing, embroidery, knitting and crocheting.&nbsp; She utilized her skills to produce much of
her own clothing, sport coats for Eric, costumes for the boys, Scandinavian
style sweaters and decorative items.&nbsp; Priscilla’s
love of music resulted in her embracing the recorder in the mid 1970’s.&nbsp; After becoming proficient at the instrument,
she joined the Lake Consort.&nbsp; The group
performed their repertoire of music from the Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque
periods at churches and other venues into the late 1980’s.&nbsp; These years were also marked by the annual
family camping trips to the White Mountains and, in 1978, a month long motor
home adventure tour of the U.S.In 1979, with the oldest son entering college, Priscilla
decided to return to work and took a position as the secretary in the high
school audio visual department.&nbsp; She
remained there until 1988, at which point she became a secretary at Trinity
Covenant Church and remained in that capacity until retirement.&nbsp; In the following years she enjoyed continuing
in her many activities and frequent visits to the family homestead on the Cape.
She also enjoyed traveling with Eric to Maine, Prince Edward
Island and England as well as trips to see her sons and their families in
Kansas and New Hampshire.&nbsp; Grandchildren
had begun to arrive a few years earlier, in 1995.&nbsp; As this next generation grew, she enjoyed
sharing her faith, wisdom, skills, life stories and extensive family history
with them. Throughout their 55 years in Marlborough, Priscilla was
known for her love of hospitality and entertaining - blessing family and
friends with sumptuous meals at their home, contributing to church suppers,
making meals for shut-ins and the bereaved, as well as welcoming new families
to the neighborhood with a fresh-baked loaf of bread and other goodies.In 2022, Priscilla moved with her husband Eric to Hays, Kansas
to be closer to her family.&nbsp; In Hays they
have been involved with the North Oak Community Church and have enjoyed making
friends in the church and community.&nbsp; Priscilla is survived by her husband Eric of Hays, two sons
- James Rorstrom and wife Jane of Hays and John Rorstrom and wife Theresa of
Austin, TX, her brother - Irving Freeman and wife Carolyn of Sandwich, MA, four
grandchildren - Katarina Clinton and husband Mark of Southern Pines, NC, Hans
Rorstrom and wife Hannah of Claremore, OK, Eric Rorstrom of Kansas City, MO,
and Carl Rorstrom of Lawrence, KS.&nbsp; There
are three great grandchildren - Hope, Svea, and Cathan. She was preceded in
death by her parents.A memorial service will be at 2:30 pm on Saturday, September
13, 2025 at North Oak Community Church with Pastor Dave Kumer
officiating.&nbsp; The family will receive friends from 1:30 pm until service
time at the church.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be in Spring Hill
Cemetery in Sandwich, Massachusetts.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, memorial
donations are suggested sent to: North Oak Community Church, 3000 Oak St.,
Hays, KS&nbsp; 67601.&nbsp; Write: “Memorial – Priscilla” on the memo
line.&nbsp; Funds will be used to support mission outreaches.&nbsp; Services
are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and
memories of Priscilla may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Priscilla F. Rorstrom

Donna Jean 'Jeanie' Dreiling, Hays, died Saturday, September
6, 2025 at Homestead of Hays, just three days shy of her 100th
birthday.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Friday,
September 12, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Damian Richards
officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in St.
Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from
5:00 pm until 7:00 on Thursday and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at
Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; A
Daughters of Isabella rosary will be at 5:30 pm followed by a vigil service at
6:30 pm, both on Thursday at the funeral home.&nbsp;


In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to P.E.O., Homestead of
Hays, or for masses.&nbsp; Condolences and
memories of Donna may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

A complete obituary is forthcoming and will be published by
Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757364913353.jpeg" alt="Donna Jean 'Jeanie' Dreiling" />
 <figcaption>Donna Jean 'Jeanie' Dreiling</figcaption>
 </figure>Donna Jean 'Jeanie' Dreiling, Hays, died Saturday, September
6, 2025 at Homestead of Hays, just three days shy of her 100th
birthday.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Friday,
September 12, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Damian Richards
officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in St.
Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from
5:00 pm until 7:00 on Thursday and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at
Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; A
Daughters of Isabella rosary will be at 5:30 pm followed by a vigil service at
6:30 pm, both on Thursday at the funeral home.&nbsp;
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to P.E.O., Homestead of
Hays, or for masses.&nbsp; Condolences and
memories of Donna may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.comA complete obituary is forthcoming and will be published by
Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.

Donna Jean 'Jeanie' Dreiling

George Philip V passed away August 16, 2025. He was born in Hays on August 22, 1954, the oldest son of George “Scotty” Philip IV and Jacqulyn Clowers Philip. He is pre-deceased by his parents and two brothers, Ian and Gordon. Survivors include his son, George Philip VI (Camille Meritan) of Manhattan, his sister, Sheilah Philip (Bob Hartley) of Overland Park, and nephews Alec Philip (Kristen), Hudson Philip, and grand-nephew Evan Philip.

George lived in Hays his whole life, graduating from Hays High in 1972 and FHSU in 1977.  He graduated with a Bachelor’s in Speech Communication, but his passion was the study of Math and Physics, for which he nearly completed a Mathematics degree. Since age eleven he worked at the family business, George Philip Hardware and took over sole ownership in 1984 when his father died.  Just as the three generations before him, he operated the store that was a downtown staple until it closed in 1997. He continued to be called upon by many citizens of Hays for his breadth of skills in hardware, locksmithing, and repair work, so he opened GPH Fabrication and Repair which he operated until 2018. He then decided to go to work again in retail, doing inventory, hardware, and small tool repair at Heartland Building center until retiring in 2022.

He and his former wife, Nancy Mai, had a son, George VI, born in 1987. They were great friends as well as being father and son. They enjoyed working in his shop he had set up on the original family farmstead in Victoria restoring machinery, shooting, and designing and building things together.

George was, in many ways, a Renaissance man. When he was younger, he enjoyed horsemanship, fencing and tae kwon do. His skills in hardware, tools, locks, and repair work were balanced by his love of reading, classical music, and on-going study of physics and mathematics. He was involved in local politics and served as city commissioner and mayor. He had a wonderful sense of humor, enjoyed cooking and eating, and was the first person his sister knew who had a personal computer.

A memorial service to be at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Pastor Brenda Rodger officiating.  Private burial will be in Mount Allen Cemetery at a later date. 

 In lieu of flowers, donations to the Hays Public Library, First Call for Help of Ellis County, or the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging would be appreciated.  Condolences and memories of George may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755708092825.jpeg" alt="George Philip V" />
 <figcaption>George Philip V</figcaption>
 </figure>George Philip V passed away August 16, 2025. He was born in Hays on August 22, 1954, the oldest son of George “Scotty” Philip IV and Jacqulyn Clowers Philip. He is pre-deceased by his parents and two brothers, Ian and Gordon. Survivors include his son, George Philip VI (Camille Meritan) of Manhattan, his sister, Sheilah Philip (Bob Hartley) of Overland Park, and nephews Alec Philip (Kristen), Hudson Philip, and grand-nephew Evan Philip.George lived in Hays his whole life, graduating from Hays High in 1972 and FHSU in 1977. He graduated with a Bachelor’s in Speech Communication, but his passion was the study of Math and Physics, for which he nearly completed a Mathematics degree. Since age eleven he worked at the family business, George Philip Hardware and took over sole ownership in 1984 when his father died. Just as the three generations before him, he operated the store that was a downtown staple until it closed in 1997. He continued to be called upon by many citizens of Hays for his breadth of skills in hardware, locksmithing, and repair work, so he opened GPH Fabrication and Repair which he operated until 2018. He then decided to go to work again in retail, doing inventory, hardware, and small tool repair at Heartland Building center until retiring in 2022.He and his former wife, Nancy Mai, had a son, George VI, born in 1987. They were great friends as well as being father and son. They enjoyed working in his shop he had set up on the original family farmstead in Victoria restoring machinery, shooting, and designing and building things together.George was, in many ways, a Renaissance man. When he was younger, he enjoyed horsemanship, fencing and tae kwon do. His skills in hardware, tools, locks, and repair work were balanced by his love of reading, classical music, and on-going study of physics and mathematics. He was involved in local politics and served as city commissioner and mayor. He had a wonderful sense of humor, enjoyed cooking and eating, and was the first person his sister knew who had a personal computer.A memorial service to be at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Pastor Brenda Rodger officiating. Private burial will be in Mount Allen Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Hays Public Library, First Call for Help of Ellis County, or the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging would be appreciated. Condolences and memories of George may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com

George Philip V

Lori Diane Ross, age 59, of Hays,
Kansas, passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Hays Medical Center, Hays,
Kansas.

She was born on July 18, 1966, in Farmington, New Mexico, to Gary Raymond and
Verlea Isabel (Robson) Ross.

She was a laboratory technician at Edwards County Medical Center, Hays
Pathology Lab, then Quest Lab, for over 30 years, and moved to Hays in
1993.&nbsp; She grew up in Hoisington, Kansas, and was a 1984 graduate of
Hoisington High School.&nbsp; She attended Kansas Technical Institute at
Salina, Kansas, and Barton County Community College. She enjoyed reading,
movies, making crafts, her co-workers, and always her dogs over the years.

Lori is survived by her parents, Gary and Verlea Ross, Hoisington, KS; her
brother, Devin Ross and his wife, Susan, Dravosburg, PA; her aunt, Phyllis
Russell and husband, Ron, Livingston, MT; her nephew, Benjamin Ross and wife, Chelsea;
her nieces, Katharine Ross; Rebecca Ross and fiancé, Josh Guter; her great
nephew, Cedric Ross; and her four legged special friend, Lilli.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Raymond and Marie Ross; George
and Grace Robson; and her aunt, Shelia Burk.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

A Celebration of Life Service will be at 1:00 P.M. Friday September 19, 2025,
at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays with Chaplain Chad Pritchett,
Officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in the Hartman Cemetery in Hartman,
Colorado at a later date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756524005602.jpeg" alt="Lori Diane Ross" />
 <figcaption>Lori Diane Ross</figcaption>
 </figure>Lori Diane Ross, age 59, of Hays,
Kansas, passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Hays Medical Center, Hays,
Kansas.She was born on July 18, 1966, in Farmington, New Mexico, to Gary Raymond and
Verlea Isabel (Robson) Ross.She was a laboratory technician at Edwards County Medical Center, Hays
Pathology Lab, then Quest Lab, for over 30 years, and moved to Hays in
1993.&nbsp; She grew up in Hoisington, Kansas, and was a 1984 graduate of
Hoisington High School.&nbsp; She attended Kansas Technical Institute at
Salina, Kansas, and Barton County Community College. She enjoyed reading,
movies, making crafts, her co-workers, and always her dogs over the years.Lori is survived by her parents, Gary and Verlea Ross, Hoisington, KS; her
brother, Devin Ross and his wife, Susan, Dravosburg, PA; her aunt, Phyllis
Russell and husband, Ron, Livingston, MT; her nephew, Benjamin Ross and wife, Chelsea;
her nieces, Katharine Ross; Rebecca Ross and fiancé, Josh Guter; her great
nephew, Cedric Ross; and her four legged special friend, Lilli.She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Raymond and Marie Ross; George
and Grace Robson; and her aunt, Shelia Burk.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;A Celebration of Life Service will be at 1:00 P.M. Friday September 19, 2025,
at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays with Chaplain Chad Pritchett,
Officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in the Hartman Cemetery in Hartman,
Colorado at a later date.The family will receive friends from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 P.M. at the mortuary.The family suggests memorials made payable to: Humane Society of the High
Plains in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd
Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.Condolences
can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Obituaries