James Dwight Noble, 79, passed away March 20, 2023, at his home, Larned.

He was born September 29, 1943, in Wellington, Kansas; the son of 
James and Dorothy Bruce Noble.&nbsp; A longtime area resident, he was a 
mechanic for John Deere Implement and USD 495 Bus Barn. He retired from 
the Army National Guard as a Staff Sergeant after twenty years of 
service.

Dwight was a master of many trades, Lock Smith, Plumber and Carpenter, was a Mason and a Shriner.

Survivors include; his common law spouse, LaVerna (Schaffer) Ochs, 
Larned; three daughters, Dana Noble, Larned, Danette Noble, Salina, and 
Dawnita Noble, Wesley Chapel, Florida; two sisters, Carolyn Prather, 
Peoria, IL and Judy Lauterbach, Oregon; six grandchildren, Trenton 
Barrett, Kelton Barrett, Mickiah Whaley, Shaughn Noble, Abbygayle Noble 
and Tiffany Bair; two great grandchildren, Johnathon King Barrett and 
Rocky Noble; a nephew Chance (Michelle) Noble, Larned, and numerous 
other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by; two brothers, his twin brother, Dwayne Noble and Merel Lauterbach.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 24th, at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel.&nbsp; Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, March 23rd, at the mortuary.&nbsp;

Memorials may be given to the Pawnee County Humane Society, in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679426151244.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>James Dwight Noble, 79, passed away March 20, 2023, at his home, Larned.He was born September 29, 1943, in Wellington, Kansas; the son of 
James and Dorothy Bruce Noble.&nbsp; A longtime area resident, he was a 
mechanic for John Deere Implement and USD 495 Bus Barn. He retired from 
the Army National Guard as a Staff Sergeant after twenty years of 
service.Dwight was a master of many trades, Lock Smith, Plumber and Carpenter, was a Mason and a Shriner.Survivors include; his common law spouse, LaVerna (Schaffer) Ochs, 
Larned; three daughters, Dana Noble, Larned, Danette Noble, Salina, and 
Dawnita Noble, Wesley Chapel, Florida; two sisters, Carolyn Prather, 
Peoria, IL and Judy Lauterbach, Oregon; six grandchildren, Trenton 
Barrett, Kelton Barrett, Mickiah Whaley, Shaughn Noble, Abbygayle Noble 
and Tiffany Bair; two great grandchildren, Johnathon King Barrett and 
Rocky Noble; a nephew Chance (Michelle) Noble, Larned, and numerous 
other nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by; two brothers, his twin brother, Dwayne Noble and Merel Lauterbach.Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 24th, at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel.&nbsp; Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, March 23rd, at the mortuary.&nbsp;Memorials may be given to the Pawnee County Humane Society, in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550.&nbsp;

James Dwight Noble

Cody Alan Ragan, 34, passed away on March 19, 2023, at his home in 
Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on July 28, 1988, in Great Bend, Kan., 
to Kenneth Ragan and Staci Hammer-Ragan.

A lifelong Barton County resident, Cody was a hard worker, 
immediately starting work after high school at Larned Correctional 
Mental Health Facility prior to becoming a driver for UPS. He loved 
spending time with his children, family, and friends, cheering on the 
Kansas City Chiefs, and being outdoors – specifically fishing and 
hiking.

Survivors include a son, Dace Alan Ragan; three daughters, Kylee 
Elizabeth, Mia Jade, and Madelyn Mae Ragan; mother, Staci (David) Moore 
of Sherwood, Ark.; father, Kenneth “Ken” (Joni Carr) Ragan, of 
Milberger, Kan.; two brothers, Jonathan (Jessica Michael) Ragan of 
Auburn, Wash., and Tanner Ragan of Silverdale, Wash.; a sister, Ashely 
Jackson of Sherwood, Ark.; nieces and nephews, Joseph, Austin and Hunter
 Ragan, Adaline Ragan, Jonathan and Jozlyn Bohl, Elijah Ragan, Mike 
Leiker, Korban and Logan Bain; grandparents, William and Marietta Hammer
 of Montrose, Colo., and LaVon Rosell of Wamego, Kan.; and lots of 
aunts, uncles, and cousins.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. A 
celebration of life will be scheduled for a later date. Memorials have 
been designated to Cody Ragan Memorial Fund or Children’s Education 
Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679425938258.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Cody Alan Ragan, 34, passed away on March 19, 2023, at his home in 
Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on July 28, 1988, in Great Bend, Kan., 
to Kenneth Ragan and Staci Hammer-Ragan.A lifelong Barton County resident, Cody was a hard worker, 
immediately starting work after high school at Larned Correctional 
Mental Health Facility prior to becoming a driver for UPS. He loved 
spending time with his children, family, and friends, cheering on the 
Kansas City Chiefs, and being outdoors – specifically fishing and 
hiking.Survivors include a son, Dace Alan Ragan; three daughters, Kylee 
Elizabeth, Mia Jade, and Madelyn Mae Ragan; mother, Staci (David) Moore 
of Sherwood, Ark.; father, Kenneth “Ken” (Joni Carr) Ragan, of 
Milberger, Kan.; two brothers, Jonathan (Jessica Michael) Ragan of 
Auburn, Wash., and Tanner Ragan of Silverdale, Wash.; a sister, Ashely 
Jackson of Sherwood, Ark.; nieces and nephews, Joseph, Austin and Hunter
 Ragan, Adaline Ragan, Jonathan and Jozlyn Bohl, Elijah Ragan, Mike 
Leiker, Korban and Logan Bain; grandparents, William and Marietta Hammer
 of Montrose, Colo., and LaVon Rosell of Wamego, Kan.; and lots of 
aunts, uncles, and cousins.There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. A 
celebration of life will be scheduled for a later date. Memorials have 
been designated to Cody Ragan Memorial Fund or Children’s Education 
Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Cody Alan Ragan

Wednesday, August 25th, 1943-Monday, March 20th, 2023

An obituary is pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Click <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/james-urbanek/5161957/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

Wednesday, August 25th, 1943-Monday, March 20th, 2023An obituary is pending with Baalmann Mortuary.Click <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/james-urbanek/5161957/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

James Lewis Urbanek

Clayton Keith Huck, age 97, of Ellis, passed away Saturday, March 18, 2023, at Homestead of Hays. He was born December 18, 1925 in Hays, Kansas, to John and Minnie (Schwab) Huck. 

Clayton graduated from Ellis High School in 1943 and then attended college. In 1952, he married Joyce Gardner in Otis, Kansas. She preceded him in death in 2005. Clayton was a 3rd generation family farmer and rancher. He was also a mechanic working with his son, Greg at their shop, Huck Repair in Ellis for several years. He was also an avid animal lover, particularly his pet dogs that were important to him throughout his life. He was also a member of the Ellis United Methodist Church. Clayton is survived by two sons, Dennis Huck and wife Lernie of Hays and Tim Huck and wife Carol of hays; two grandsons, John Huck and Daniel Huck; three step grandchildren, and 2 step great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Joyce; two sons, David and Gregory Huck and a sister, Madeline Schoenthaler. Funeral services will be 11 AM Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at the Ellis United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the Mt. Hope Cemetery, Ellis. Visitation will be Wednesday 10 AM until service time at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Ellis United Methodist Church. Condolences may be left on Clayton's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>. Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679420150122.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clayton Keith Huck, age 97, of Ellis, passed away Saturday, March 18, 2023, at Homestead of Hays. He was born December 18, 1925 in Hays, Kansas, to John and Minnie (Schwab) Huck. Clayton graduated from Ellis High School in 1943 and then attended college. In 1952, he married Joyce Gardner in Otis, Kansas. She preceded him in death in 2005. Clayton was a 3rd generation family farmer and rancher. He was also a mechanic working with his son, Greg at their shop, Huck Repair in Ellis for several years. He was also an avid animal lover, particularly his pet dogs that were important to him throughout his life. He was also a member of the Ellis United Methodist Church. Clayton is survived by two sons, Dennis Huck and wife Lernie of Hays and Tim Huck and wife Carol of hays; two grandsons, John Huck and Daniel Huck; three step grandchildren, and 2 step great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Joyce; two sons, David and Gregory Huck and a sister, Madeline Schoenthaler. Funeral services will be 11 AM Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at the Ellis United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the Mt. Hope Cemetery, Ellis. Visitation will be Wednesday 10 AM until service time at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Ellis United Methodist Church. Condolences may be left on Clayton's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>. Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.

Clayton Keith Huck

Sherry Kathleen Cook, WaKeeney, passed away February 28, 2023, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital, at the age of 75.

Sherry was born June 1, 1947, to Elmer and Armella (Rome) Struss in WaKeeney. She attended Trego schools graduating in 1966. On May 25, 1968, she married Richard Lee Cook. Sherry was a lifelong resident of rural WaKeeney, living on the family farm until she and Richard made the move into town in 2020.

Everyone that knew Sherry was aware that she was a very private person, preferring to spend her time at home on the farm with her kids and grandkids and tending to her beautiful flower gardens. Unless, of course, it involved shopping, then she was more than happy to venture out for the day with family. She was famous in the family for her fried chicken, potato salad, and green bean dumpling soup, all of us requesting as often as possible. Sherry is survived by her two sons, Tate and wife Bridget, of WaKeeney, and Miles and wife Amy, of Collyer, five grandchildren: Mikayla Decatur (Brandon) of Wichita, Skylar Wittman of Russell, Tatum Cook of WaKeeney, Hayden Cook and significant other Macy Howard and her daughters, Delilah and Amari of Russell, and Carson Cook of Collyer, and one great-grandson, Slade Decatur, her sister&nbsp;Marguriet&nbsp;McFarling&nbsp;(Ronnie), one brother, Kevin Struss, nephew Cody Sandlin (The Mooch as Sherry called him), nieces Jodi&nbsp;Desair, Megan Peterson, and Elizabeth Yancey, and many great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Richard, and two nephews, Kurt and Ryan Struss. Funeral services will be held at 10:30, Friday, March 24, 2023, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in WaKeeney with a graveside inurnment of both Sherry and Richard immediately following at&nbsp;WaKeeney Cemetery. A lunch will follow back at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sherry Cook Memorial Fund in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678297774409.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sherry Kathleen Cook, WaKeeney, passed away February 28, 2023, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital, at the age of 75.Sherry was born June 1, 1947, to Elmer and Armella (Rome) Struss in WaKeeney. She attended Trego schools graduating in 1966. On May 25, 1968, she married Richard Lee Cook. Sherry was a lifelong resident of rural WaKeeney, living on the family farm until she and Richard made the move into town in 2020.Everyone that knew Sherry was aware that she was a very private person, preferring to spend her time at home on the farm with her kids and grandkids and tending to her beautiful flower gardens. Unless, of course, it involved shopping, then she was more than happy to venture out for the day with family. She was famous in the family for her fried chicken, potato salad, and green bean dumpling soup, all of us requesting as often as possible. Sherry is survived by her two sons, Tate and wife Bridget, of WaKeeney, and Miles and wife Amy, of Collyer, five grandchildren: Mikayla Decatur (Brandon) of Wichita, Skylar Wittman of Russell, Tatum Cook of WaKeeney, Hayden Cook and significant other Macy Howard and her daughters, Delilah and Amari of Russell, and Carson Cook of Collyer, and one great-grandson, Slade Decatur, her sister&nbsp;Marguriet&nbsp;McFarling&nbsp;(Ronnie), one brother, Kevin Struss, nephew Cody Sandlin (The Mooch as Sherry called him), nieces Jodi&nbsp;Desair, Megan Peterson, and Elizabeth Yancey, and many great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Richard, and two nephews, Kurt and Ryan Struss. Funeral services will be held at 10:30, Friday, March 24, 2023, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in WaKeeney with a graveside inurnment of both Sherry and Richard immediately following at&nbsp;WaKeeney Cemetery. A lunch will follow back at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sherry Cook Memorial Fund in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Sherry Kathleen Cook

Robert "Bob" Leonard Dinkel, 85 years old, of Collyer, KS., passed away on February 12, 2023. Robert was born in Gove County on November 3, 1937, to&nbsp;Antone&nbsp;and Rosalia (Giebler) Dinkel. He graduated from Collyer High School in 1955.&nbsp;

Bob enlisted in the Army on March 11, 1959, and was a Light Vehicle Driver until his discharge on November 22, 1960. While in the Army, he received a Marksman Certificate of Achievement.

Bob returned to Collyer, where he spent the remaining years of his life, working as a farmer. He also was employed by&nbsp;Ben Dinkel’s&nbsp;gas station in Collyer, City of Collyer,&nbsp;George&nbsp;Parsons&nbsp;to help move houses, and served for the St. Michael Catholic Church as a cemetery sexton and maintenance man.&nbsp;Bob was a lifelong member of St. Michael Catholic Church in Collyer, KS.&nbsp;Bob was united in marriage to Lori Smith on June 2, 2001. They were married for 18 years until Lori passed on October 16, 2019. In his spare time, you could find Bob playing cards, especially a good game of cribbage.

Bob Dinkel is survived by many nieces and nephews and Lori’s sons Nick, Adam, and Paul Smith, as well as loved ones and friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Paul Dinkel, Leo Dinkel, Don Dinkel, Alvin Dinkel, Clarence Dinkel; sisters, Bertha&nbsp;Applehans, Beata&nbsp;Malsom, Marcella&nbsp;Malsom, Rosalie Shaffer, Rosemary Walt.

A Memorial Funeral Mass will be held on March 25, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church. Inurnment will take place immediately following at St. Michael Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be on March 25, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., with a rosary to be held at 9:30 a.m. prior to service.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Gove County Medical Center Long Term Care. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678901206426.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Robert "Bob" Leonard Dinkel, 85 years old, of Collyer, KS., passed away on February 12, 2023. Robert was born in Gove County on November 3, 1937, to&nbsp;Antone&nbsp;and Rosalia (Giebler) Dinkel. He graduated from Collyer High School in 1955.&nbsp;Bob enlisted in the Army on March 11, 1959, and was a Light Vehicle Driver until his discharge on November 22, 1960. While in the Army, he received a Marksman Certificate of Achievement.Bob returned to Collyer, where he spent the remaining years of his life, working as a farmer. He also was employed by&nbsp;Ben Dinkel’s&nbsp;gas station in Collyer, City of Collyer,&nbsp;George&nbsp;Parsons&nbsp;to help move houses, and served for the St. Michael Catholic Church as a cemetery sexton and maintenance man.&nbsp;Bob was a lifelong member of St. Michael Catholic Church in Collyer, KS.&nbsp;Bob was united in marriage to Lori Smith on June 2, 2001. They were married for 18 years until Lori passed on October 16, 2019. In his spare time, you could find Bob playing cards, especially a good game of cribbage.Bob Dinkel is survived by many nieces and nephews and Lori’s sons Nick, Adam, and Paul Smith, as well as loved ones and friends.Bob was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Paul Dinkel, Leo Dinkel, Don Dinkel, Alvin Dinkel, Clarence Dinkel; sisters, Bertha&nbsp;Applehans, Beata&nbsp;Malsom, Marcella&nbsp;Malsom, Rosalie Shaffer, Rosemary Walt.A Memorial Funeral Mass will be held on March 25, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church. Inurnment will take place immediately following at St. Michael Catholic Cemetery.Visitation will be on March 25, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., with a rosary to be held at 9:30 a.m. prior to service.Memorial contributions are suggested to Gove County Medical Center Long Term Care. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Robert 'Bob' Leonard Dinkel

Sunday, October 19th, 1975-Sunday, March 19th, 2023

An obituary and services are pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Sunday, October 19th, 1975-Sunday, March 19th, 2023An obituary and services are pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Carson Charles Cobb

Ruth Laverne (Taylor) Starkey, of Russell, Kansas, passed away March 
19, 2023, at her home in Hutchinson, surrounded by family. Ruth was born 
June 6, 1930, in Plainville, Kansas, to Ellery and Esther Grace (Blauer) 
Taylor. She was preceded in death by her parents, and a younger sister 
Wilma Lee (Taylor) Wilson, of Lawrence, Kansas.

Ruth graduated from Plainville High School in 1948, and was active in
 music and church activities. She then attended Fort Hays State 
University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music in 1952. 
While attending college, she met the love of her life, Jerald Leland 
Starkey of Haviland, Kansas. Married on June 2, 1952, the young couple 
started a new life in Kansas City, where Jerald began his medical 
education at KU, and Ruth taught elementary school music. Ruth and 
Jerald celebrated 70 years of marriage last year in June 2022. Their 
marriage was a testimony to their commitment to God and to one another.

Upon Jerald’s completing his medical training, the couple relocated 
to Alaska, with their infant daughter Mary, where Jerald served his US 
Public Health Service commitment. In 1962, the Starkey’s moved to 
Russell, Kansas, where Ruth remained active in church service and music 
education for the next 50 years. While in Russell, Ruth taught private 
piano lessons and served the Otterbein United Methodist Church by 
playing the piano and organ. She also directed youth choirs, led Bible 
studies, youth groups, and mission trips. Ruth’s commitment to her Lord 
Jesus Christ and to her family defined her as a person.

Ruth and Jerald moved to Hutchinson, Kansas, in 2012, to be closer to 
David’s family and enjoy watching their grandsons grow up. She enjoyed 
countless basketball games and other school activities. During this time
 she remained in close contact with family and friends through visits, 
letters, and phone calls.

Ruth is survived by her husband of 70 years, Dr. Jerald Starkey of 
Hutchinson, Mary Beth Starkey of El Paso, Texas, son Dr. David Starkey 
and his wife Karla, along with their children, Jared Starkey, and wife 
Jewelia of Kansas City, Noah Starkey of Oklahoma City, and Luke Starkey 
of Hutchinson. Also, she is survived by a brother in law, Verle Starkey 
of Haviland, Kansas, nieces Jackie Sundell and Jolene Haehl both of 
Lawrence, Kansas, as well as several special cousins.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 23, 2023,&nbsp; at Otterbein United Methodist Church, 136 West Wisconsin, Russell, 
Kansas, with Pastor Michael W. Eurit officiating. A graveside service 
will be held at 3:30 p.m.at Wellsford Cemetery in Haviland, Kansas. 
Friends may sign her registration book from 9:00 to 5:00 Wednesday, 
March 22, at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Otterbein United 
Methodist Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson,
 KS 67501.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679408168846.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ruth Laverne (Taylor) Starkey, of Russell, Kansas, passed away March 
19, 2023, at her home in Hutchinson, surrounded by family. Ruth was born 
June 6, 1930, in Plainville, Kansas, to Ellery and Esther Grace (Blauer) 
Taylor. She was preceded in death by her parents, and a younger sister 
Wilma Lee (Taylor) Wilson, of Lawrence, Kansas.Ruth graduated from Plainville High School in 1948, and was active in
 music and church activities. She then attended Fort Hays State 
University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music in 1952. 
While attending college, she met the love of her life, Jerald Leland 
Starkey of Haviland, Kansas. Married on June 2, 1952, the young couple 
started a new life in Kansas City, where Jerald began his medical 
education at KU, and Ruth taught elementary school music. Ruth and 
Jerald celebrated 70 years of marriage last year in June 2022. Their 
marriage was a testimony to their commitment to God and to one another.Upon Jerald’s completing his medical training, the couple relocated 
to Alaska, with their infant daughter Mary, where Jerald served his US 
Public Health Service commitment. In 1962, the Starkey’s moved to 
Russell, Kansas, where Ruth remained active in church service and music 
education for the next 50 years. While in Russell, Ruth taught private 
piano lessons and served the Otterbein United Methodist Church by 
playing the piano and organ. She also directed youth choirs, led Bible 
studies, youth groups, and mission trips. Ruth’s commitment to her Lord 
Jesus Christ and to her family defined her as a person.Ruth and Jerald moved to Hutchinson, Kansas, in 2012, to be closer to 
David’s family and enjoy watching their grandsons grow up. She enjoyed 
countless basketball games and other school activities. During this time
 she remained in close contact with family and friends through visits, 
letters, and phone calls.Ruth is survived by her husband of 70 years, Dr. Jerald Starkey of 
Hutchinson, Mary Beth Starkey of El Paso, Texas, son Dr. David Starkey 
and his wife Karla, along with their children, Jared Starkey, and wife 
Jewelia of Kansas City, Noah Starkey of Oklahoma City, and Luke Starkey 
of Hutchinson. Also, she is survived by a brother in law, Verle Starkey 
of Haviland, Kansas, nieces Jackie Sundell and Jolene Haehl both of 
Lawrence, Kansas, as well as several special cousins.Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 23, 2023,&nbsp; at Otterbein United Methodist Church, 136 West Wisconsin, Russell, 
Kansas, with Pastor Michael W. Eurit officiating. A graveside service 
will be held at 3:30 p.m.at Wellsford Cemetery in Haviland, Kansas. 
Friends may sign her registration book from 9:00 to 5:00 Wednesday, 
March 22, at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Otterbein United 
Methodist Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson,
 KS 67501.

Ruth Laverne (Taylor) Starkey

With great sorrow, the Boots and Lewis families announce the 
unexpected passing of our loving and caring mother and grandmother, 
Margaret (Darlene) Knox.&nbsp; Her soul peacefully ascended into heaven on 
Tuesday, March 14, 2023, in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Darlene was born February of 1944 to Harry and Christobelle (Henning)
 Huck in Wichita, Kansas, and moved with her parents soon thereafter to 
Zook and Larned, Kansas.&nbsp; She was a previous member of the Larned United
 Methodist Church.&nbsp; Darlene graduated from Fort Hays State University in
 1969 with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Music with a concentration in piano 
performance.&nbsp; Darlene resided ‘on the hill’ in Larned for the majority 
of her life until recently relocating to be closer to family in Hesston 
and then on to Hutchinson.

Darlene’s youthful years were full of energy and passion for her love
 of dance and playing the piano.&nbsp; She often danced as a child and into 
her young adult years performing in recitals and specials events, she 
choreographed performances for the Sweet Adelines of Wichita, and even 
had the opportunity to perform on television in 1959.&nbsp; Her love of the 
arts was further fulfilled by providing private piano and group dance 
lessons to young children for many years in Larned.&nbsp; Darlene went on to 
study nursing while working full time and obtained her RN degree from 
Barton County Community College in Great Bend in 1978.&nbsp; She worked as a 
nurse for Dr. Durwin K. Smith Chiropractic and then at Larned State 
Hospital as a charge nurse for 16 years until retiring in 2002 to spend 
more time with her grandchildren.

Darlene’s family meant the world to her.&nbsp; She never hesitated to tell
 anyone who would listen just how proud she was of the accomplishments 
of both her daughters, their husbands, and her grandchildren.&nbsp; Darlene 
was a generous mom and mamaw who took joy in hearing about family 
updates and reliving memories until her physical body tired and 
succumbed too early.

Darlene was the only daughter born to Harry and Christobelle Huck who
 both preceded her in death.&nbsp; Darlene is survived by her daughter, 
Denise Boots and son-in-law Henry Boots Jr.; daughter, Dana Knox Lewis 
and son-in-law Pat Lews; grandchildren Ashleigh Boots, Austin Boots, 
Peyton Lewis and Gunnar Lewis.

Darlene will be honored at a small family service this summer.&nbsp; 


Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association, in care of 
Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550.&nbsp; Condolences may be 
left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679403051491.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>With great sorrow, the Boots and Lewis families announce the 
unexpected passing of our loving and caring mother and grandmother, 
Margaret (Darlene) Knox.&nbsp; Her soul peacefully ascended into heaven on 
Tuesday, March 14, 2023, in Hutchinson, Kansas.Darlene was born February of 1944 to Harry and Christobelle (Henning)
 Huck in Wichita, Kansas, and moved with her parents soon thereafter to 
Zook and Larned, Kansas.&nbsp; She was a previous member of the Larned United
 Methodist Church.&nbsp; Darlene graduated from Fort Hays State University in
 1969 with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Music with a concentration in piano 
performance.&nbsp; Darlene resided ‘on the hill’ in Larned for the majority 
of her life until recently relocating to be closer to family in Hesston 
and then on to Hutchinson.Darlene’s youthful years were full of energy and passion for her love
 of dance and playing the piano.&nbsp; She often danced as a child and into 
her young adult years performing in recitals and specials events, she 
choreographed performances for the Sweet Adelines of Wichita, and even 
had the opportunity to perform on television in 1959.&nbsp; Her love of the 
arts was further fulfilled by providing private piano and group dance 
lessons to young children for many years in Larned.&nbsp; Darlene went on to 
study nursing while working full time and obtained her RN degree from 
Barton County Community College in Great Bend in 1978.&nbsp; She worked as a 
nurse for Dr. Durwin K. Smith Chiropractic and then at Larned State 
Hospital as a charge nurse for 16 years until retiring in 2002 to spend 
more time with her grandchildren.Darlene’s family meant the world to her.&nbsp; She never hesitated to tell
 anyone who would listen just how proud she was of the accomplishments 
of both her daughters, their husbands, and her grandchildren.&nbsp; Darlene 
was a generous mom and mamaw who took joy in hearing about family 
updates and reliving memories until her physical body tired and 
succumbed too early.Darlene was the only daughter born to Harry and Christobelle Huck who
 both preceded her in death.&nbsp; Darlene is survived by her daughter, 
Denise Boots and son-in-law Henry Boots Jr.; daughter, Dana Knox Lewis 
and son-in-law Pat Lews; grandchildren Ashleigh Boots, Austin Boots, 
Peyton Lewis and Gunnar Lewis.Darlene will be honored at a small family service this summer.&nbsp; 
Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association, in care of 
Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550.&nbsp; Condolences may be 
left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Margaret Darlene Knox

Curtis Loyal Beach, age 75, passed away Monday, March 20, 2023,&nbsp; at the Smith County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;Curtis was 
born October 13, 1947, in Rural Smith County, KS to Agustus Clare and 
Dorothy (Abbott) Beach. He was a Feed &amp; Animal Health Sales 
Specialist.

Curtis was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Cameron.

Survivors
 include his wife Mary Gay (Beckman) Beach of Kensington, daughter Amber
 (Bruce) Hardacre of Kensington, son Kiley (Katie) Beach of Dighton, 
KS;&nbsp; &nbsp;brother Abbott Craig (Margaret) Beach of Lincoln, NE; sister 
Lynette (Beach) Sprague (Randy) of Alta Vista, KS and 6 granddaughters.

Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Curtis-Loyal-Beach?obId=27533232#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679402926920.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Curtis Loyal Beach, age 75, passed away Monday, March 20, 2023,&nbsp; at the Smith County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;Curtis was 
born October 13, 1947, in Rural Smith County, KS to Agustus Clare and 
Dorothy (Abbott) Beach. He was a Feed &amp; Animal Health Sales 
Specialist.Curtis was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Cameron.Survivors
 include his wife Mary Gay (Beckman) Beach of Kensington, daughter Amber
 (Bruce) Hardacre of Kensington, son Kiley (Katie) Beach of Dighton, 
KS;&nbsp; &nbsp;brother Abbott Craig (Margaret) Beach of Lincoln, NE; sister 
Lynette (Beach) Sprague (Randy) of Alta Vista, KS and 6 granddaughters.Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Curtis-Loyal-Beach?obId=27533232#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Curtis Loyal Beach

Mason Zackary Givens, 17, of Colby, passed away Friday, March 17, 2023. 
He was born August 23, 2005, in Colby, KS. 

Mason enjoyed the outdoors, 
riding ATVs, spending time hunting and fishing with his dad and Doug. He
 was a happy owner of multiple collections. Mason enjoyed music, 
particularly Upchurch, working out, and cheering on the Kansas City 
Chiefs. He enjoyed all of his motorized vehicles, especially driving 
around town with his friends. Mason had an infectious smile and a great 
sense of humor. He was incredibly smart and had dreams of pursuing a 
career as a veterinarian or psychologist. Above all, Mason had so much 
love for his family and friends. 
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Elvis Givens and Patricia Givens and brothers Brendon Givens and Braxton Marcum. 
Mason is survived by his mother, Amanda (Chris) Keen; father, Robert 
(Anne) Givens; step parents, Doug (Amy) Marcum; siblings, Garrison 
Marcum, Kamrie Marcum and Kaeli Marcum; step siblings, Zachary Gardner, 
Keely Gardner and Ryleigh Gardner; grandparents, Karen Weber, Ferman 
Gibson, Vaughn and Marie Marcum; aunt Tanya Martin; uncles, David Givens
 and Allen (Stacey) Marcum; and his dog Tesla. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary,
 Colby. The funeral will be at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at 
Celebration Community Church, Colby.

Memorials may be made to Baalmann Mortuary for funeral expenses, PO Box 391, Colby,
 KS 67701. For information or condolences, visit www.baalmannmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679402850558.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mason Zackary Givens, 17, of Colby, passed away Friday, March 17, 2023. 
He was born August 23, 2005, in Colby, KS. Mason enjoyed the outdoors, 
riding ATVs, spending time hunting and fishing with his dad and Doug. He
 was a happy owner of multiple collections. Mason enjoyed music, 
particularly Upchurch, working out, and cheering on the Kansas City 
Chiefs. He enjoyed all of his motorized vehicles, especially driving 
around town with his friends. Mason had an infectious smile and a great 
sense of humor. He was incredibly smart and had dreams of pursuing a 
career as a veterinarian or psychologist. Above all, Mason had so much 
love for his family and friends. 
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Elvis Givens and Patricia Givens and brothers Brendon Givens and Braxton Marcum. 
Mason is survived by his mother, Amanda (Chris) Keen; father, Robert 
(Anne) Givens; step parents, Doug (Amy) Marcum; siblings, Garrison 
Marcum, Kamrie Marcum and Kaeli Marcum; step siblings, Zachary Gardner, 
Keely Gardner and Ryleigh Gardner; grandparents, Karen Weber, Ferman 
Gibson, Vaughn and Marie Marcum; aunt Tanya Martin; uncles, David Givens
 and Allen (Stacey) Marcum; and his dog Tesla. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary,
 Colby. The funeral will be at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at 
Celebration Community Church, Colby. Memorials may be made to Baalmann Mortuary for funeral expenses, PO Box 391, Colby,
 KS 67701. For information or condolences, visit www.baalmannmortuary.com.

Mason Zackary Givens

September 13, 1933
 &nbsp;-&nbsp;
 March 20, 2023

An obituary is pending with Plumer-Overlease Funeral Homes.

Click <a href="https://www.plumeroverlease.com/obituaries/LaDonna--Rae-Schnuerle?obId=27533903#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679402739971.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>September 13, 1933
 &nbsp;-&nbsp;
 March 20, 2023An obituary is pending with Plumer-Overlease Funeral Homes.Click <a href="https://www.plumeroverlease.com/obituaries/LaDonna--Rae-Schnuerle?obId=27533903#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

LaDonna Rae Schnuerle

Maria Dolores Holguin, 68, passed away March 20, 2023, at her home in Lewis.

She was born February 8, 1955, in Chihuahua, Mexico, the daughter of Manuel Holguin Urvina and Guadalupe Rivas Payan.

A resident of Lewis for 23 years, she moved from Chihuahua. She was a
 member of the Christian Faith and attended Iglesia Pan De Vida in 
Kinsley. She was a homemaker and enjoyed reading, weaving, watching tv 
and going to church.

Survivors include: son, Alonzo (Nancy) Ponce, Lewis; daughter, Rocio 
(Rene) Guevara, Lewis; eight siblings, Javier Holguin Rivas, Chato 
Holguin Rivas, Victor Holguin Rivas, Sol Holguin Rivas, Esther Holguin 
Rivas, Irma Holguin Rivas, Rosy Holguin Rivas, Luz Holguin Rivas; eight 
grandchildren, Rene Alonzo Guevara, Orion Guevara, Max Guevara, Ares 
Guevara, Khloe A. Ponce, Yarel S. Ponce, Sebastian Ponce, and Santiago 
Ponce.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral service will be 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at the 
First Christian Church, Kinsley with Pastor Oscar Claro presiding. 
Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 
Beckwith Mortuary, Larned.

Personal condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.beckwithmortuary.com">www.beckwithmortuary.com</a>. Services provided by Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679402495558.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Maria Dolores Holguin, 68, passed away March 20, 2023, at her home in Lewis.She was born February 8, 1955, in Chihuahua, Mexico, the daughter of Manuel Holguin Urvina and Guadalupe Rivas Payan.A resident of Lewis for 23 years, she moved from Chihuahua. She was a
 member of the Christian Faith and attended Iglesia Pan De Vida in 
Kinsley. She was a homemaker and enjoyed reading, weaving, watching tv 
and going to church.Survivors include: son, Alonzo (Nancy) Ponce, Lewis; daughter, Rocio 
(Rene) Guevara, Lewis; eight siblings, Javier Holguin Rivas, Chato 
Holguin Rivas, Victor Holguin Rivas, Sol Holguin Rivas, Esther Holguin 
Rivas, Irma Holguin Rivas, Rosy Holguin Rivas, Luz Holguin Rivas; eight 
grandchildren, Rene Alonzo Guevara, Orion Guevara, Max Guevara, Ares 
Guevara, Khloe A. Ponce, Yarel S. Ponce, Sebastian Ponce, and Santiago 
Ponce.She was preceded in death by her parents.Funeral service will be 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at the 
First Christian Church, Kinsley with Pastor Oscar Claro presiding. 
Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 
Beckwith Mortuary, Larned.Personal condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.beckwithmortuary.com">www.beckwithmortuary.com</a>. Services provided by Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.

Maria Dolores Holguin

Sister Mercedes Geib, CSA, baptized Lois Catherine, died peacefully March 13, 2023, at St. Francis Home, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Lois
 was born March 25, 1922, in Barton, Wisconsin, the daughter of Peter 
Geib and Mathilda Meyer Geib. She was always proud to say that she grew 
up with her brother and three sisters in Barton, one block from the 
original motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Agnes established by Father 
Caspar Rehrl.  After attending St. Mary’s Springs Academy for two years,
 Lois entered St. Agnes Convent in 1938 where she completed her high 
school education. She made her first profession of vows in the 
Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes as Sister Mercedes on August 15, 
1941, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Sister Mercedes was a 
gifted educator, musician, organist, liturgist, and pastoral minister. 
She earned several credits in music from Alverno College, Milwaukee, 
Wisconsin, and St. Norbert College, DePere, Wisconsin. She received 
certification as a Choirmaster from St. John’s University, Collegeville,
 Minnesota, in 1951. In 1957, she earned a BS in Education from Marian 
College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and an MST in Teaching from the 
University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, in 1974.  Her musical and educational 
skills were enhanced by attending courses in theology and certification 
programs in religious education.

Sister ministered as 
an elementary teacher, music teacher, and principal in parish schools in
 Wisconsin and Indiana from 1941-1975. Beginning in 1975, she served as a
 Religious Education Coordinator in parishes in Wisconsin and Kansas.  
From 1984-1989 she was the music minister and parish minister at St. 
Mary’s Parish, Ellis, Kansas. 

She returned to Fond du Lac in 1989 to be 
the liturgist and organist at St. Agnes Convent. In 1993, Sister 
Mercedes moved to Ohio where she spent the remaining twenty years of her
 active ministry beginning with four years in Cincinnati as a Pastoral 
Minister at Good Samaritan Hospital and Our Lady of Victory Parish and 
sixteen years in Circleville, Ohio, where she was a companion to one of 
her CSA sisters ministering in that area. 

While in Circleville, she was a
 member of St. Joseph’s Parish and very active in the Ministry of 
Neighboring.  She could be found volunteering in the hospital, playing 
piano and organ at nursing homes and senior care residences, and serving
 as a substitute organist for the parish. She was well-known and loved 
for her smile, her caring, and her wholehearted hospitality.

In
 June 2013, Sister Mercedes joined the community of sisters at Nazareth 
Court and Center in Fond du Lac, sharing her love for music and her 
compassionate presence with her sisters in the retirement center. Frail 
health necessitated her move to St. Francis Home in August of 2020.  
There she received loving care until the time of her death.

Sister
 Mercedes was preceded in death by her parents Peter and Mathilda; her 
brother Sarto; her sisters Orlinda Schacht, Loretta Kirchner, and 
Dolores Sauter.

She is survived by several nieces and 
nephews and their families and the Sisters of St. Agnes with whom she 
lived, prayed, and ministered.

Visitation will be held 
on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, from 8:30 - 9:45 a.m. at Nazareth Center 
Chapel, 375 Gillett Street, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

A 
Prayer Service will be held at 9:45 a.m. on March 21, 2023, in Nazareth 
Center Chapel. Visitation will continue following the Prayer Service 
until 10:45 a.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 
offered for Sister Mercedes at 11:00 on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at St. 
Francis Home Chapel, 33 Everett Street, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, with 
Father Randy Knauf, OFM Cap., presiding. Burial will follow at St. 
Joseph Springs Cemetery, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Memorials may be directed to the CSA Mission Advancement Office, 320 County Road K, Fond du Lac, WI 54937.

The
 Sisters of St. Agnes are grateful to the nurses and staff of Nazareth 
Court and Center, St. Francis Home, and Hospice Hope for their devoted 
care of Sister Mercedes.

Zacherl Funeral Home is serving the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679337425812.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sister Mercedes Geib, CSA, baptized Lois Catherine, died peacefully March 13, 2023, at St. Francis Home, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.Lois
 was born March 25, 1922, in Barton, Wisconsin, the daughter of Peter 
Geib and Mathilda Meyer Geib. She was always proud to say that she grew 
up with her brother and three sisters in Barton, one block from the 
original motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Agnes established by Father 
Caspar Rehrl. After attending St. Mary’s Springs Academy for two years,
 Lois entered St. Agnes Convent in 1938 where she completed her high 
school education. She made her first profession of vows in the 
Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes as Sister Mercedes on August 15, 
1941, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.Sister Mercedes was a 
gifted educator, musician, organist, liturgist, and pastoral minister. 
She earned several credits in music from Alverno College, Milwaukee, 
Wisconsin, and St. Norbert College, DePere, Wisconsin. She received 
certification as a Choirmaster from St. John’s University, Collegeville,
 Minnesota, in 1951. In 1957, she earned a BS in Education from Marian 
College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and an MST in Teaching from the 
University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, in 1974. Her musical and educational 
skills were enhanced by attending courses in theology and certification 
programs in religious education.Sister ministered as 
an elementary teacher, music teacher, and principal in parish schools in
 Wisconsin and Indiana from 1941-1975. Beginning in 1975, she served as a
 Religious Education Coordinator in parishes in Wisconsin and Kansas. 
From 1984-1989 she was the music minister and parish minister at St. 
Mary’s Parish, Ellis, Kansas. She returned to Fond du Lac in 1989 to be 
the liturgist and organist at St. Agnes Convent. In 1993, Sister 
Mercedes moved to Ohio where she spent the remaining twenty years of her
 active ministry beginning with four years in Cincinnati as a Pastoral 
Minister at Good Samaritan Hospital and Our Lady of Victory Parish and 
sixteen years in Circleville, Ohio, where she was a companion to one of 
her CSA sisters ministering in that area. While in Circleville, she was a
 member of St. Joseph’s Parish and very active in the Ministry of 
Neighboring. She could be found volunteering in the hospital, playing 
piano and organ at nursing homes and senior care residences, and serving
 as a substitute organist for the parish. She was well-known and loved 
for her smile, her caring, and her wholehearted hospitality.In
 June 2013, Sister Mercedes joined the community of sisters at Nazareth 
Court and Center in Fond du Lac, sharing her love for music and her 
compassionate presence with her sisters in the retirement center. Frail 
health necessitated her move to St. Francis Home in August of 2020. 
There she received loving care until the time of her death.Sister
 Mercedes was preceded in death by her parents Peter and Mathilda; her 
brother Sarto; her sisters Orlinda Schacht, Loretta Kirchner, and 
Dolores Sauter.She is survived by several nieces and 
nephews and their families and the Sisters of St. Agnes with whom she 
lived, prayed, and ministered.Visitation will be held 
on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, from 8:30 - 9:45 a.m. at Nazareth Center 
Chapel, 375 Gillett Street, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.A 
Prayer Service will be held at 9:45 a.m. on March 21, 2023, in Nazareth 
Center Chapel. Visitation will continue following the Prayer Service 
until 10:45 a.m.A Mass of Christian Burial will be 
offered for Sister Mercedes at 11:00 on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at St. 
Francis Home Chapel, 33 Everett Street, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, with 
Father Randy Knauf, OFM Cap., presiding. Burial will follow at St. 
Joseph Springs Cemetery, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.Memorials may be directed to the CSA Mission Advancement Office, 320 County Road K, Fond du Lac, WI 54937.The
 Sisters of St. Agnes are grateful to the nurses and staff of Nazareth 
Court and Center, St. Francis Home, and Hospice Hope for their devoted 
care of Sister Mercedes.Zacherl Funeral Home is serving the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes.

Sister Mercedes Geib

Melvin Dean Hamilton of Flagstaff, AZ went home to be with the Lord 
on December 15, 2022 after a life full of love, laughter and family.&nbsp;

Born on March 20, 1934, in Weskan, KS to Elva and Lloyd Hamilton, Mel 
was part of a large family where he grew up on a farm, learned to drive 
at the age of 10, and gained his ability to both work and play hard.

Mel had a long life full of captivating experiences shared through 
stories, and adventures shared with his children, grandchildren, and 
great grandchildren including trail riding, hiking, sledding, building, 
creating and treasure hunting.&nbsp; He taught many of us the value of hard 
work, how to drive, how to live and how to love. &nbsp;

Mel loved to work with his hands and held a number of jobs using his 
mechanical skills including mining in Colorado, before settling in 
Flagstaff where he got a job at Arizona Department of Transportation and
 spent the majority of his career leading a traffic maintenance crew 
that striped the highways in the summer and plowed the snow in the 
winter. &nbsp;Mel retired from ADOT in 1999 and enjoyed his retirement with 
time spent working on projects on his property and visiting family in 
Oregon, Colorado, and Kansas.

Mel married the love of his life Jean Pittman on April 13, 1981 and 
together they built a loving home where all were welcome on a small 
piece of property north of Flagstaff with a stunning view of the San 
Francisco Peaks.&nbsp; Mel’s daughters Anna (Andre) and Becky (and Randy 
DeWitt) and grandson James (and Tasibah Carrillo) and great 
grand-daughters Juniper, and Scarlett (Carrillo) have many memories of 
fun times with family on their property. Jean’s children and their 
spouses John and Lena Pittman, Jim and Tana Pittman, Jeri and Ken 
Puccio, Tammy and Chris Rouse, and Russell and Trish Pittman and their 
children and grandchildren also enjoyed their visits and fun at “Grandma
 and Grandpa’s” house.&nbsp; 

Mel and Jean always welcomed their extended 
family with a warm meal and an offer for off road adventures, hikes, 
sledding or impromptu trips to the Grand Canyon.&nbsp; We all loved these 
adventures as well as our times together at home working on a puzzle, 
watching Diamondbacks or Suns games, or enjoying the view of the sun 
setting over the mountains.&nbsp;

Other people’s cast off “junk” often became “recyclables” to Mel. He 
could fix almost anything and gave new life to any number of objects by 
recycling/welding/laser cutting found metal objects into&nbsp; bicycles, 
toys, yard art, and statues.

Mel’s family will always remember him for the mischievous twinkle in 
his eye, humor, warm hugs, common sense approach to life, numerous 
stories, love of the outdoors, and ability to take a nap almost 
anywhere.

Mel is survived by Jean, her children and spouses, his daughters Anna
 and Becky, sisters Melva and Aleta, brother Gilbert, and numerous 
grandchildren. Mel was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Don 
and Morris, sister Lucille and beloved grandchildren Becky and Harley 
Pittman.

As Jean has often said, Mel was “a good Christian man” who loved her 
dearly. His family and loved ones were the light of his life.&nbsp; We have 
had the benefit of feeling the unwavering support of his love and pride 
and the numerous spoken and unspoken lessons that he taught us.&nbsp; He will
 be missed.&nbsp;

Mel’s celebration of life will be held on a future date once the family has determined the best timing to gather.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679337185974.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Melvin Dean Hamilton of Flagstaff, AZ went home to be with the Lord 
on December 15, 2022 after a life full of love, laughter and family.&nbsp;Born on March 20, 1934, in Weskan, KS to Elva and Lloyd Hamilton, Mel 
was part of a large family where he grew up on a farm, learned to drive 
at the age of 10, and gained his ability to both work and play hard.Mel had a long life full of captivating experiences shared through 
stories, and adventures shared with his children, grandchildren, and 
great grandchildren including trail riding, hiking, sledding, building, 
creating and treasure hunting.&nbsp; He taught many of us the value of hard 
work, how to drive, how to live and how to love. &nbsp;Mel loved to work with his hands and held a number of jobs using his 
mechanical skills including mining in Colorado, before settling in 
Flagstaff where he got a job at Arizona Department of Transportation and
 spent the majority of his career leading a traffic maintenance crew 
that striped the highways in the summer and plowed the snow in the 
winter. &nbsp;Mel retired from ADOT in 1999 and enjoyed his retirement with 
time spent working on projects on his property and visiting family in 
Oregon, Colorado, and Kansas.Mel married the love of his life Jean Pittman on April 13, 1981 and 
together they built a loving home where all were welcome on a small 
piece of property north of Flagstaff with a stunning view of the San 
Francisco Peaks.&nbsp; Mel’s daughters Anna (Andre) and Becky (and Randy 
DeWitt) and grandson James (and Tasibah Carrillo) and great 
grand-daughters Juniper, and Scarlett (Carrillo) have many memories of 
fun times with family on their property. Jean’s children and their 
spouses John and Lena Pittman, Jim and Tana Pittman, Jeri and Ken 
Puccio, Tammy and Chris Rouse, and Russell and Trish Pittman and their 
children and grandchildren also enjoyed their visits and fun at “Grandma
 and Grandpa’s” house.&nbsp; Mel and Jean always welcomed their extended 
family with a warm meal and an offer for off road adventures, hikes, 
sledding or impromptu trips to the Grand Canyon.&nbsp; We all loved these 
adventures as well as our times together at home working on a puzzle, 
watching Diamondbacks or Suns games, or enjoying the view of the sun 
setting over the mountains.&nbsp;Other people’s cast off “junk” often became “recyclables” to Mel. He 
could fix almost anything and gave new life to any number of objects by 
recycling/welding/laser cutting found metal objects into&nbsp; bicycles, 
toys, yard art, and statues.Mel’s family will always remember him for the mischievous twinkle in 
his eye, humor, warm hugs, common sense approach to life, numerous 
stories, love of the outdoors, and ability to take a nap almost 
anywhere.Mel is survived by Jean, her children and spouses, his daughters Anna
 and Becky, sisters Melva and Aleta, brother Gilbert, and numerous 
grandchildren. Mel was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Don 
and Morris, sister Lucille and beloved grandchildren Becky and Harley 
Pittman.As Jean has often said, Mel was “a good Christian man” who loved her 
dearly. His family and loved ones were the light of his life.&nbsp; We have 
had the benefit of feeling the unwavering support of his love and pride 
and the numerous spoken and unspoken lessons that he taught us.&nbsp; He will
 be missed.&nbsp;Mel’s celebration of life will be held on a future date once the family has determined the best timing to gather.&nbsp;

Melvin Dean Hamilton

Clayton Keith Huck, age 97, of Ellis, passed away Saturday, March 18, 2023, at Homestead of Hays.

Funeral services will be 11 AM Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at the Ellis United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the Mt. Hope Cemetery, Ellis.

Visitation will be Wednesday 10 AM until service time at the church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Ellis United Methodist Church.

Condolences may be left on Clayton's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>. Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679335608687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clayton Keith Huck, age 97, of Ellis, passed away Saturday, March 18, 2023, at Homestead of Hays.Funeral services will be 11 AM Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at the Ellis United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the Mt. Hope Cemetery, Ellis.Visitation will be Wednesday 10 AM until service time at the church.Memorial contributions are suggested to the Ellis United Methodist Church.Condolences may be left on Clayton's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>. Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.A full obituary is pending.

Phillipsburg resident Guy "Nick" Earl Ortiz passed away on Friday, 
March 17, 2023, at the Phillips County Hospital at the age of 56.

Nick was born on November 20, 1966, son of Jose Ortiz and Peggy Winters.

He is preceded in death by his mother Peggy.&nbsp;

Nick is survived by his son Nicholas Ortiz of Phillipsburg, sister 
Sandra Molnar, and brothers Dan Wilfong of Plainfield, Connecticut, and 
Randy Ortiz of Connecticut.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679334072370.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Phillipsburg resident Guy "Nick" Earl Ortiz passed away on Friday, 
March 17, 2023, at the Phillips County Hospital at the age of 56.Nick was born on November 20, 1966, son of Jose Ortiz and Peggy Winters.He is preceded in death by his mother Peggy.&nbsp;Nick is survived by his son Nicholas Ortiz of Phillipsburg, sister 
Sandra Molnar, and brothers Dan Wilfong of Plainfield, Connecticut, and 
Randy Ortiz of Connecticut.&nbsp;Cremation was planned.

Nick Earl Ortiz

Wayne Joseph Armbrister, 71, of Burlington, Colorado, passed away Thursday, March 16, 2023, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas. Wayne was born July 16,1951, in Hays, Kansas, to Joseph and Martha (Keller) Armbrister.

Wayne spent his childhood and adolescence in Ellis and Rooks counties, attending school in Zurich and Palco. He learned to farm from his dad, Joe, while tending the family’s land. He enjoyed spending time with his cousins and his sister, Donna (Armbrister) Benoit. Wayne graduated from Palco High School in 1969 and attended Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland, where he learned carpentry.

Wayne married Terry Billenwillms in 1972. She and their unborn child preceded him in death in 1974. In 1978, he married Terrill Bartels of Burlington, Colorado. While living in Zurich, they had three children, Jonathan Armbrister in 1979, Haley Armbrister in 1982 and Molly Armbrister in 1988. Wayne and his family moved to Colorado in 1989 and settled in Burlington. They later divorced.

While living in Burlington, Wayne became well-known in the community as a talented carpenter and hard-working farmer. He built homes and completed renovations for countless families in the area and made friends wherever he went. An active member of First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Wayne served several terms as president of the church council and led the effort to finance and build a new church for the congregation in the late 1990s.

In 2004, Wayne married Kimberly Whipple, and together the couple built a successful carpentry business. They also volunteered to operate the First St. Paul’s food booth, raising money for the church, and operated Red Cross shelters in Burlington, offering food and shelter to travelers stranded in town during inclement weather.

In addition to farming and carpentry, Wayne enjoyed playing and watching sports, especially baseball, watching Western movies, gardening and spending time with his wife, kids and grandkids.

Wayne is survived by his children, Jon Armbrister of O’Fallon, MO, Haley Armbrister of Alamosa, CO, and Molly Armbrister of Windsor, CO; step-children, Brad (Amanda) Whipple of Virginia, and Stephanie (Bob) Miller of Casper, WY; grandchildren Tyler and Sophia Armbrister and Hannah Leiker; and sister Donna (Tom) Benoit.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Martha; siblings, Jeanette, Jean, Darrell and Wilma; and wives Terry and Kim.

A visitation will be held Monday, March 20, from 6 PM to 8 PM CT. with a prayer service at 8 PM all at Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.

Funeral services will be held at 10 AM CT Tuesday, March 21, at St. John Lutheran Church in Ellis.

Additional visitation will be 3 PM – 4 PM MT at First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Burlington, CO, followed by a short graveside service and burial at Fairview Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. John Lutheran Church flooring repair project.

Condolences may be left on Wayne's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679331681251.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wayne Joseph Armbrister, 71, of Burlington, Colorado, passed away Thursday, March 16, 2023, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas. Wayne was born July 16,1951, in Hays, Kansas, to Joseph and Martha (Keller) Armbrister.Wayne spent his childhood and adolescence in Ellis and Rooks counties, attending school in Zurich and Palco. He learned to farm from his dad, Joe, while tending the family’s land. He enjoyed spending time with his cousins and his sister, Donna (Armbrister) Benoit. Wayne graduated from Palco High School in 1969 and attended Northwest Kansas Technical College in Goodland, where he learned carpentry.Wayne married Terry Billenwillms in 1972. She and their unborn child preceded him in death in 1974. In 1978, he married Terrill Bartels of Burlington, Colorado. While living in Zurich, they had three children, Jonathan Armbrister in 1979, Haley Armbrister in 1982 and Molly Armbrister in 1988. Wayne and his family moved to Colorado in 1989 and settled in Burlington. They later divorced.While living in Burlington, Wayne became well-known in the community as a talented carpenter and hard-working farmer. He built homes and completed renovations for countless families in the area and made friends wherever he went. An active member of First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Wayne served several terms as president of the church council and led the effort to finance and build a new church for the congregation in the late 1990s.In 2004, Wayne married Kimberly Whipple, and together the couple built a successful carpentry business. They also volunteered to operate the First St. Paul’s food booth, raising money for the church, and operated Red Cross shelters in Burlington, offering food and shelter to travelers stranded in town during inclement weather.In addition to farming and carpentry, Wayne enjoyed playing and watching sports, especially baseball, watching Western movies, gardening and spending time with his wife, kids and grandkids.Wayne is survived by his children, Jon Armbrister of O’Fallon, MO, Haley Armbrister of Alamosa, CO, and Molly Armbrister of Windsor, CO; step-children, Brad (Amanda) Whipple of Virginia, and Stephanie (Bob) Miller of Casper, WY; grandchildren Tyler and Sophia Armbrister and Hannah Leiker; and sister Donna (Tom) Benoit.He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Martha; siblings, Jeanette, Jean, Darrell and Wilma; and wives Terry and Kim.A visitation will be held Monday, March 20, from 6 PM to 8 PM CT. with a prayer service at 8 PM all at Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.Funeral services will be held at 10 AM CT Tuesday, March 21, at St. John Lutheran Church in Ellis.Additional visitation will be 3 PM – 4 PM MT at First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Burlington, CO, followed by a short graveside service and burial at Fairview Cemetery.Memorial contributions are suggested to St. John Lutheran Church flooring repair project.Condolences may be left on Wayne's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Wayne Joseph Armbrister

Neil Lynn Carstens was born May 11, 1950, to Maynard and Mabel 
Carstens in St. Francis, Kansas. He graduated from Bird City High 
School, later attending Vo-Tech school in Goodland, graduating with a 
degree in Mechanics at the top of his class. He was known in the 
community as an excellent mechanic throughout his life.&nbsp;

Survived by his sister Marla Stams, brother-in-law Rusty Stams, 
daughter Kimla, as well as all of the many Bird City area community 
friends that always watched over him.&nbsp;

Preceded in death by parents Maynard, Mabel, and sister Nora Wilson.&nbsp;

Memorial service Wednesday, March 22, 2023, 10:00 AM. St. John's Lutheran Church, Bird City, Kansas.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4

Neil Lynn Carstens was born May 11, 1950, to Maynard and Mabel 
Carstens in St. Francis, Kansas. He graduated from Bird City High 
School, later attending Vo-Tech school in Goodland, graduating with a 
degree in Mechanics at the top of his class. He was known in the 
community as an excellent mechanic throughout his life.&nbsp;Survived by his sister Marla Stams, brother-in-law Rusty Stams, 
daughter Kimla, as well as all of the many Bird City area community 
friends that always watched over him.&nbsp;Preceded in death by parents Maynard, Mabel, and sister Nora Wilson.&nbsp;Memorial service Wednesday, March 22, 2023, 10:00 AM. St. John's Lutheran Church, Bird City, Kansas.Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4

Neil Lynn Carstens

Phillipsburg resident Fostine Kay Gardner passed away on December 
20, 2022, at the Phillipsburg Retirement Center at the age of 83.&nbsp;

She was born on December 21, 1938, in Centralia, Illinois, to her parents Carl "Gene" Britt and Helen "Iris" (Whitten) Britt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fostine was preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Iris Britt.&nbsp;

She was survived by her son, Bradford Parker of Phillipsburg, her two
 daughters, Kimberly Shields of Phillipsburg, and Loujena Cardenas of 
Hawthorne, Nevada, as well as 7 grandchildren and 14 great 
grandchildren.

A memorial service, officiated by Pastor David Manyara, will be held 
on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church 
in Phillipsburg.&nbsp;

Phillipsburg resident Fostine Kay Gardner passed away on December 
20, 2022, at the Phillipsburg Retirement Center at the age of 83.&nbsp;She was born on December 21, 1938, in Centralia, Illinois, to her parents Carl "Gene" Britt and Helen "Iris" (Whitten) Britt.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fostine was preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Iris Britt.&nbsp;She was survived by her son, Bradford Parker of Phillipsburg, her two
 daughters, Kimberly Shields of Phillipsburg, and Loujena Cardenas of 
Hawthorne, Nevada, as well as 7 grandchildren and 14 great 
grandchildren.A memorial service, officiated by Pastor David Manyara, will be held 
on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church 
in Phillipsburg.&nbsp;

Fostine Kay Gardner

Margaret “Peggy” Jane Muehlenkamp, 85, of Oakley, died Thursday, March 
16, 2023, at Hays Medical Center. She was born on July 1, 1937, in Hays,
 to James and Orpha (Mountford) Moss. 

Margaret enjoyed reading the Bible
 and was a member of the Mormon Church and later joined the Catholic 
Church. In her free time, she enjoyed sewing, cooking, shopping and 
especially spending time with her children and grandchildren. On May 1, 
1992, she married Lawrence Muehlenkamp. 
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Johnny Moss, 
Earl Moss and Esther Woofter and grandchildren, Mitchell Ottley, Lancy 
Heady and Matthew Patton. 
She is survived by her husband Lawrence; children, Penny (Bob) Ottley, 
Rhonda Litton, Karin (Todd) Good, Kyle (Lori) Litton, Kurt (Jewel) 
Litton, Marcie (Blake) Heady and Lonnie (Denise) Litton; 35 
grandchildren; 63 great grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren and
 sisters-in-law, Opal Moss, Fern Ottley, Verna Wright, Mary Alice Gibson
 and Margie Brown. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Sunday, March 19, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary, 
Oakley, with a Vigil at 6:00 p.m. and a Mormon service at 6:30 p.m. 
Funeral Mass is at 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 20, 2023, at St. Joseph 
Catholic Church, Oakley, with burial in the church cemetery.

Memorials 
may be made to St. Joseph School or The Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter-day Saints, Colby and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 
391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit 
www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679325038255.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Margaret “Peggy” Jane Muehlenkamp, 85, of Oakley, died Thursday, March 
16, 2023, at Hays Medical Center. She was born on July 1, 1937, in Hays,
 to James and Orpha (Mountford) Moss. Margaret enjoyed reading the Bible
 and was a member of the Mormon Church and later joined the Catholic 
Church. In her free time, she enjoyed sewing, cooking, shopping and 
especially spending time with her children and grandchildren. On May 1, 
1992, she married Lawrence Muehlenkamp. 
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Johnny Moss, 
Earl Moss and Esther Woofter and grandchildren, Mitchell Ottley, Lancy 
Heady and Matthew Patton. 
She is survived by her husband Lawrence; children, Penny (Bob) Ottley, 
Rhonda Litton, Karin (Todd) Good, Kyle (Lori) Litton, Kurt (Jewel) 
Litton, Marcie (Blake) Heady and Lonnie (Denise) Litton; 35 
grandchildren; 63 great grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren and
 sisters-in-law, Opal Moss, Fern Ottley, Verna Wright, Mary Alice Gibson
 and Margie Brown. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Sunday, March 19, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary, 
Oakley, with a Vigil at 6:00 p.m. and a Mormon service at 6:30 p.m. 
Funeral Mass is at 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 20, 2023, at St. Joseph 
Catholic Church, Oakley, with burial in the church cemetery. Memorials 
may be made to St. Joseph School or The Church of Jesus Christ of 
Latter-day Saints, Colby and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 
391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit 
www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Margaret 'Peggy' Jane Muehlenkamp

Franklin A. Callaway of Newton, Kansas, passed away March 18, 2023, 
at Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita, Kansas. He was born to Frederick 
L. and Lola M. (Bowman) Callaway on March 18, 1938, in Norton, Kansas.

Attending school in Norton until 1955, Frank joined the 
Kansas National Guard, transferring to the U.S. Army in 1959. After 
retiring from the military in 1965, he continued with 36 years on the 
railroad, retiring in 2001.

In 1959, Frank married Barbara White in Phillipsburg, Kansas. They 
were blessed with two sons, Frank and Scott and a daughter, Tamara. 
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, and three sisters, Joyce, 
Maxine, and Ruth.

Frank is survived by his wife Barbara; sons, Frank L. (Debra) and Scott (Gloria); daughter, Tamara Merkwan (Michael).

Visitation will be at the funeral home on Thursday, March 23, 2023, 
from 5-9pm, with the family present from 6-8pm. The funeral service will
 be at 2pm on Friday, March 24, 2023 at Petersen Funeral Home in Newton.

Franklin A. Callaway of Newton, Kansas, passed away March 18, 2023, 
at Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita, Kansas. He was born to Frederick 
L. and Lola M. (Bowman) Callaway on March 18, 1938, in Norton, Kansas.Attending school in Norton until 1955, Frank joined the 
Kansas National Guard, transferring to the U.S. Army in 1959. After 
retiring from the military in 1965, he continued with 36 years on the 
railroad, retiring in 2001.In 1959, Frank married Barbara White in Phillipsburg, Kansas. They 
were blessed with two sons, Frank and Scott and a daughter, Tamara. 
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, and three sisters, Joyce, 
Maxine, and Ruth.Frank is survived by his wife Barbara; sons, Frank L. (Debra) and Scott (Gloria); daughter, Tamara Merkwan (Michael).He went to be with his Lord and Savior.Visitation will be at the funeral home on Thursday, March 23, 2023, 
from 5-9pm, with the family present from 6-8pm. The funeral service will
 be at 2pm on Friday, March 24, 2023 at Petersen Funeral Home in Newton.

Franklin A. Callaway

Arthur “Art” Leiker, 92, died Friday, March 17, 2023, at St. Catherine 
Hospital in Garden City, Kansas. He was born September 19, 1930, in 
Collyer, Kansas, the son of Adolph &amp; Margaret (Braun) Leiker. 
 Art moved with his family to Garden City in 1934, where he grew up 
on a sugar beet farm north of Holcomb, Kansas. He attended St. Mary 
Catholic School and Holcomb schools where he graduated from high school.
 After school hours, Art went to work at the Company’s Sugar Factory 
until he entered the service. He served 18 months in the United States 
Army and 3 years active in the Army Reserves. After active duty in the 
service, Art returned to Garden City and worked for the Garden City 
Company. He retired after 33 years as a Farm Maintenance 
Superintendent. 
 On May 16, 1955, he married Joan Cason in Garden City. Art was a 
member of St. Mary Catholic Church, a life member of the Knights of 
Columbus #2795, member of the American Legion, Harry H. Renick Post #9, 
the APS Stamp Association, and numerous coin associations. He enjoyed 
spending his time going to antique auctions and collecting coins and 
stamps. 
 Survivors include a son John Leiker of Garden City; a daughter 
Karen Wells of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, a brother James Leiker of Scott, 
Louisiana; 6 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. Art is preceded 
in death by his wife Joan who died on October 15, 2006. He is also 
preceded in death by his parents; a daughter Cynthia Romero; a sister 
Esther Smith; a brother Otto Leiker; and a grandson Arthur Romero. 
 A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. on 
Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. 
Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 23, at St. 
Mary Catholic Church in Garden City with Fr. Jacob Schneider as 
Celebrant. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City 
with military graveside rites conducted by the Kansas Army National 
Guard Honor Guard. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on 
Wednesday at Garnand Funeral Home.

 The family suggests memorials given 
to St. Mary Catholic Church or to Wounded Warriors, both in care of the 
funeral home.  Condolences may be given at garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679266530479.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Arthur “Art” Leiker, 92, died Friday, March 17, 2023, at St. Catherine 
Hospital in Garden City, Kansas. He was born September 19, 1930, in 
Collyer, Kansas, the son of Adolph &amp; Margaret (Braun) Leiker. 
 Art moved with his family to Garden City in 1934, where he grew up 
on a sugar beet farm north of Holcomb, Kansas. He attended St. Mary 
Catholic School and Holcomb schools where he graduated from high school.
 After school hours, Art went to work at the Company’s Sugar Factory 
until he entered the service. He served 18 months in the United States 
Army and 3 years active in the Army Reserves. After active duty in the 
service, Art returned to Garden City and worked for the Garden City 
Company. He retired after 33 years as a Farm Maintenance 
Superintendent. 
 On May 16, 1955, he married Joan Cason in Garden City. Art was a 
member of St. Mary Catholic Church, a life member of the Knights of 
Columbus #2795, member of the American Legion, Harry H. Renick Post #9, 
the APS Stamp Association, and numerous coin associations. He enjoyed 
spending his time going to antique auctions and collecting coins and 
stamps. 
 Survivors include a son John Leiker of Garden City; a daughter 
Karen Wells of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, a brother James Leiker of Scott, 
Louisiana; 6 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. Art is preceded 
in death by his wife Joan who died on October 15, 2006. He is also 
preceded in death by his parents; a daughter Cynthia Romero; a sister 
Esther Smith; a brother Otto Leiker; and a grandson Arthur Romero. 
 A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. on 
Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. 
Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 23, at St. 
Mary Catholic Church in Garden City with Fr. Jacob Schneider as 
Celebrant. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City 
with military graveside rites conducted by the Kansas Army National 
Guard Honor Guard. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on 
Wednesday at Garnand Funeral Home. The family suggests memorials given 
to St. Mary Catholic Church or to Wounded Warriors, both in care of the 
funeral home. Condolences may be given at garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Arthur 'Art' Leiker

Frances Witt, age 86, formerly of Hays, passed away March 17, 2023, in Grandview, Missouri.

Graveside
 services will be at a later date under the direction of 
Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601.

Frances Witt, age 86, formerly of Hays, passed away March 17, 2023, in Grandview, Missouri.Graveside
 services will be at a later date under the direction of 
Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601.

Frances Witt

Tuesday, August 23rd, 2005-Friday, March 17th, 2023

Click <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/mason-givens/5160533/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

Tuesday, August 23rd, 2005-Friday, March 17th, 2023An obituary is pending with Baalmann Mortuary.Click <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/mason-givens/5160533/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

Obituaries