Ruby Belle Hageman Mosher was born July 20, 1928, in Stockton, Kansas to Edward C. VI and Jesse Rae Maris Hageman. She passed away at the age of 96, at Redbud Village in Plainville on August 26, 2024.

Ruby graduated from Stockton High School with the Class of 1946. On October 19, 1947, she married Gail Arven Mosher at the Methodist Church in Stockton. Ruby &amp; Gail moved to Kansas City after marriage while Gail attended mortuary school. They then returned to Plainville, where Gail eventually joined in business with his father, R.A., to operate Mosher’s Inc., which consisted of a hardware store in downtown Plainville and a funeral business. When R.A. and his wife retired, the hardware store was liquidated and Gail &amp; Ruby together operated Mosher Funeral Home, and Wheatland Vault Co. Ruby &amp; Gail traveled extensively, attending conventions and other business-related ventures. Highlighted personal trip locations included the Middle East and Australia.

Through the years, three children joined the family – Nancy Ann, David Arven and Michelle Rae “Shelly”. David passed away in January of 1976, and Gail passed in March of 2005. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, E. Charles Hageman VII and Joanna Johnson.

Ruby was a good housekeeper, and a wonderful cook for her family. She enjoyed gardening, needlework and reading, and was an avid collector of numerous items. She loved clothes and fashion, and all things sparkly, and was known to have color-matched shoes for every single outfit she owned. Decorating her home was another passion. She loved movies, which created another favorite hobby, recording them from TV so she could watch them again and again. In her later years, when her eyesight failed her, she would play soothing music on her TV all day long.

She was a member of the Plainville United Methodist Church, Plainville VFW Auxiliary, RCHC Auxiliary, Eastern Star and Chapter HB of PEO.

Ruby is survived by her daughters, Nancy Clopton and husband Jim of Lubbock, Tx and Michelle “Shelly” Haas and her husband Danny of Plainville; 4 grandchildren, Sarah Clopton of Plano, Tx, Jeff Clopton of Lubbock, Jennifer Vohs of Kirwin and Katie Hunziker of Plainville; two step-grandchildren, Clayton Haas and Angela Calvin; 21 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great grandchildren.

A Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 2:00 PM, at the United Methodist Church in Plainville. Visitation will be on Thursday, August 29th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the funeral home in Plainville.

Memorials are suggested to United Methodist Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724970011231.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ruby Belle Hageman Mosher was born July 20, 1928, in Stockton, Kansas to Edward C. VI and Jesse Rae Maris Hageman. She passed away at the age of 96, at Redbud Village in Plainville on August 26, 2024.Ruby graduated from Stockton High School with the Class of 1946. On October 19, 1947, she married Gail Arven Mosher at the Methodist Church in Stockton. Ruby &amp; Gail moved to Kansas City after marriage while Gail attended mortuary school. They then returned to Plainville, where Gail eventually joined in business with his father, R.A., to operate Mosher’s Inc., which consisted of a hardware store in downtown Plainville and a funeral business. When R.A. and his wife retired, the hardware store was liquidated and Gail &amp; Ruby together operated Mosher Funeral Home, and Wheatland Vault Co. Ruby &amp; Gail traveled extensively, attending conventions and other business-related ventures. Highlighted personal trip locations included the Middle East and Australia.Through the years, three children joined the family – Nancy Ann, David Arven and Michelle Rae “Shelly”. David passed away in January of 1976, and Gail passed in March of 2005. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, E. Charles Hageman VII and Joanna Johnson.Ruby was a good housekeeper, and a wonderful cook for her family. She enjoyed gardening, needlework and reading, and was an avid collector of numerous items. She loved clothes and fashion, and all things sparkly, and was known to have color-matched shoes for every single outfit she owned. Decorating her home was another passion. She loved movies, which created another favorite hobby, recording them from TV so she could watch them again and again. In her later years, when her eyesight failed her, she would play soothing music on her TV all day long.She was a member of the Plainville United Methodist Church, Plainville VFW Auxiliary, RCHC Auxiliary, Eastern Star and Chapter HB of PEO.Ruby is survived by her daughters, Nancy Clopton and husband Jim of Lubbock, Tx and Michelle “Shelly” Haas and her husband Danny of Plainville; 4 grandchildren, Sarah Clopton of Plano, Tx, Jeff Clopton of Lubbock, Jennifer Vohs of Kirwin and Katie Hunziker of Plainville; two step-grandchildren, Clayton Haas and Angela Calvin; 21 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great grandchildren.A Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 2:00 PM, at the United Methodist Church in Plainville. Visitation will be on Thursday, August 29th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the funeral home in Plainville.Memorials are suggested to United Methodist Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.

Ruby Belle Hageman Mosher

Joan Ostmeyer, 72, died at home in Overland Park, Kansas, on Wednesday, August 28th, 2024, surrounded by the family that loved her, after battling glioblastoma brain cancer with strength and grace.

This beautiful wife and mother was born on October 18th, 1951, to Stephen and Elizabeth “Betty” (Halbleib) Broeckelman of Angelus, Kansas. She was blessed with six siblings: Phyllis Rueschhoff, Edith Broeckelman, Judith Brull, Lee Broeckelman, Lois Stafford, and Barb Dayvault. Joan attended Angelus Grade School and Grinnell High School. She played the alto saxophone and French horn in the high school pep and dress bands. Joan was a dedicated student and was the salutatorian of her high school class. She attended Fort Hays State University majoring in elementary education.

Joan fell in love with Rick Ostmeyer, and they married on January 8th, 1971. They were united as one for 53 wonderful years, and had two daughters, Jennifer Hunter and Darielle McGriff. Rick was the dreamer and Joan was the strength that led them all over Kansas from Oakley to Kansas City to Derby and then home to Hays, Kansas, where they built a successful business and beautiful life.

Rick and Joan co-owned Hays Memorial Chapel since 1983 until their retirement in 2014. Joan was a faithful member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Hays, Kansas and Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, Kansas. She served on the Board of Trustees at Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, the parish board of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, was a former member of Daughters of Isabella, a CASA volunteer, and devoted religion teacher. The achievement she was most proud of was being a dedicated wife, mother and grandma to her family.

Survivors include her husband Rick; daughter Jennifer Hunter and her husband Levi of Olathe, Kansas; daughter Darielle McGriff and her husband Derek of Olathe, Kansas; six grandchildren, Haley McGriff, Miles McGriff, Caitlin McGriff, Drew McGriff, Lia Hunter and Kyla Hunter; brother Lee (Barb) Broeckelman of Oakley, Kansas, sister Lois (Don) Stafford of Hays, Kansas, and sister Barbara Dayvault of Sacramento, California.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stephen and Elizabeth Broeckelman, sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Day Rueschhoff, sister Edith Broeckelman, sister and brother-in-law Judith and Kenneth Brull, brother-in-law Doug Powers, and niece Michelle Mason.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Don Zimmerman, Fr. Fred Gatschet, Fr. David Metz, and Fr. Alvin Werth officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Monday at the church and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Tuesday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A vigil service and rosary will be at 7:00 pm on Monday at the church. Memorials are suggested to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays, Good Shepherd Hospice of Olathe, or to Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. Condolences and memories of Joan may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Joan Ostmeyer, 72, died at home in Overland Park, Kansas, on Wednesday, August 28th, 2024, surrounded by the family that loved her, after battling glioblastoma brain cancer with strength and grace.This beautiful wife and mother was born on October 18th, 1951, to Stephen and Elizabeth “Betty” (Halbleib) Broeckelman of Angelus, Kansas. She was blessed with six siblings: Phyllis Rueschhoff, Edith Broeckelman, Judith Brull, Lee Broeckelman, Lois Stafford, and Barb Dayvault. Joan attended Angelus Grade School and Grinnell High School. She played the alto saxophone and French horn in the high school pep and dress bands. Joan was a dedicated student and was the salutatorian of her high school class. She attended Fort Hays State University majoring in elementary education.Joan fell in love with Rick Ostmeyer, and they married on January 8th, 1971. They were united as one for 53 wonderful years, and had two daughters, Jennifer Hunter and Darielle McGriff. Rick was the dreamer and Joan was the strength that led them all over Kansas from Oakley to Kansas City to Derby and then home to Hays, Kansas, where they built a successful business and beautiful life.Rick and Joan co-owned Hays Memorial Chapel since 1983 until their retirement in 2014. Joan was a faithful member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Hays, Kansas and Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, Kansas. She served on the Board of Trustees at Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, the parish board of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, was a former member of Daughters of Isabella, a CASA volunteer, and devoted religion teacher. The achievement she was most proud of was being a dedicated wife, mother and grandma to her family.Survivors include her husband Rick; daughter Jennifer Hunter and her husband Levi of Olathe, Kansas; daughter Darielle McGriff and her husband Derek of Olathe, Kansas; six grandchildren, Haley McGriff, Miles McGriff, Caitlin McGriff, Drew McGriff, Lia Hunter and Kyla Hunter; brother Lee (Barb) Broeckelman of Oakley, Kansas, sister Lois (Don) Stafford of Hays, Kansas, and sister Barbara Dayvault of Sacramento, California.She was preceded in death by her parents, Stephen and Elizabeth Broeckelman, sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Day Rueschhoff, sister Edith Broeckelman, sister and brother-in-law Judith and Kenneth Brull, brother-in-law Doug Powers, and niece Michelle Mason.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Don Zimmerman, Fr. Fred Gatschet, Fr. David Metz, and Fr. Alvin Werth officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Monday at the church and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Tuesday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A vigil service and rosary will be at 7:00 pm on Monday at the church. Memorials are suggested to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays, Good Shepherd Hospice of Olathe, or to Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. Condolences and memories of Joan may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Joan Irene Ostmeyer

Mr. Robert James “Bob” Dinges, age 88, of Dalton, Georgia, passed away Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Hamilton Hospital.

Graveside services will be 10:30 AM Monday, September 2, 2024 at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Hays.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Vincent de Paul Society (St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 968 Haig Mill Lake Road, Dalton, GA) or the Women’s Enrichment Center (109 W. Gordon St., Dalton, GA.)&nbsp;Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Robert's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, KS 67601.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724867903730.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mr. Robert James “Bob” Dinges, age 88, of Dalton, Georgia, passed away Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Hamilton Hospital.Graveside services will be 10:30 AM Monday, September 2, 2024 at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Hays.In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Vincent de Paul Society (St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 968 Haig Mill Lake Road, Dalton, GA) or the Women’s Enrichment Center (109 W. Gordon St., Dalton, GA.)&nbsp;Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Robert's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, KS 67601.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Robert James “Bob” Dinges

Todd J. Van Schuyver passed away on August 25, 2024, at his home in Plainville, KS, at the age of 46. He was born on January 12, 1978, to Anna Gravatt in Salina, KS. He was adopted by David and Mary (Staab) Van Schuyver.

Todd grew up in Plainville and graduated from Plainville High School in 1997. He was currently working at Wilkens Manufacturing and had previously worked at Schulte Homes and Classic Cloth. He played Special Olympics Basketball with the Solomon Valley Larks and Hays Buffaloes. He was a member of Plainville Knights of Columbus and Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Todd enjoyed hunting, fishing, living independently, helping his parents, and hanging out with his nephews Kaiden and Chayse, brother Ryan and many friends.

Todd leaves behind his parents, David and Mary; brother, Ryan (Gina) Van Schuyver; sister, Carrie Van Schuyver (Mike); nephews, Kaiden Van Schuyver and Chayse McCullough and Emily; and niece, Ayvre Van Schuyver.

He is preceded in death by his brothers, Scott David and Brent Michael.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. Burial will follow at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday, 6-8PM with a Vigil and Rosary service at 7PM at the Church.

Memorials are suggested to Solomon Valley ARC Larks or The Arc of Central Plains Buffaloes and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd Street, Plainville, KS 67663. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.plumeroverlease.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724852357983.jpeg" alt="VanSchuyver" />
 <figcaption>VanSchuyver</figcaption>
 </figure>Todd J. Van Schuyver passed away on August 25, 2024, at his home in Plainville, KS, at the age of 46. He was born on January 12, 1978, to Anna Gravatt in Salina, KS. He was adopted by David and Mary (Staab) Van Schuyver.Todd grew up in Plainville and graduated from Plainville High School in 1997. He was currently working at Wilkens Manufacturing and had previously worked at Schulte Homes and Classic Cloth. He played Special Olympics Basketball with the Solomon Valley Larks and Hays Buffaloes. He was a member of Plainville Knights of Columbus and Sacred Heart Catholic Church.Todd enjoyed hunting, fishing, living independently, helping his parents, and hanging out with his nephews Kaiden and Chayse, brother Ryan and many friends.Todd leaves behind his parents, David and Mary; brother, Ryan (Gina) Van Schuyver; sister, Carrie Van Schuyver (Mike); nephews, Kaiden Van Schuyver and Chayse McCullough and Emily; and niece, Ayvre Van Schuyver.He is preceded in death by his brothers, Scott David and Brent Michael.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. Burial will follow at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday, 6-8PM with a Vigil and Rosary service at 7PM at the Church.Memorials are suggested to Solomon Valley ARC Larks or The Arc of Central Plains Buffaloes and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd Street, Plainville, KS 67663. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.plumeroverlease.com.

Todd J. Van Schuyver

On Friday, August 23, 2024, James M Eller went to meet his beloved wife Joann in their Heavenly home. He was born May 7, 1935 in Speed, Kansas the son of James and Doris Eller. Jim grew up in Kirwin, Kansas and graduated from Kirwin High School. Following graduation he joined the Army during the Korean War and worked on guided missles. After his enlistment he returned home to Kirwin and on November 25, 1956 he married Joann Crawford in Gaylord at the Nazarene Church. Soon after they moved to Hays, KS where he attended Fort Hays State University and attained a Bachelor's of Science degree in Education. He returned to Kirwin to begin his teaching career for 2 years followed by 2 years in Long Island, KS. During those years he taught PE and English and coached football, basketball, and baseball and directed school plays. In the summer of 1967 he and Joann moved to Sylvan Grove, KS. It was the first year of the new Sylvan Unified School district and the first year in the "new" school. Jim taught various subjects over the years including English, Science, PE and was always willing to take on any position that was needed at the school either as a teacher, coach or sponsor. Some of those included track, basketball, speech and school plays. In the 1972-73 school year he became the first girl's basketball coach at Sylvan Unified High School, leading the team to winning seasons. He went back to FHSU to earn his MS in High School Counseling, adding that to his duties at SUHS. During the summers he built Butler Buildings, worked at the Sylvan Elevator or helped farmers in the fields. Jim was instrumental is starting the Girl's Quivira Softball league and coached the team from Sylvan for many years. He retired from teaching in 1996 but continued to substitute teach for many years and later volunteered in the lunchroom serving lunches at the high school until he was into his 80s. Eduction was something that he loved and he passed that on to the next 2 generations of his family. His 3 daughters and several grandchildren have followed in his footsteps. When Jim and Joann moved to Sylvan Grove, they found a place to call home for over 50 years.

Jim was full of fun and had a quick wit, often ready with a joke and was quick to laughter. He was the best example of a girl Dad, encouraging independence in his daughters and leading by example of how to treat people with kindness, to always have love in your heart, and to never judge or hate. Jim was a much loved teacher, counselor, and coach, showing compassion and acceptance to his students. Sports were always very important to Jim, he was a talented player and successful coach. He instilled the love of sports to his daughters and supported all of their activites and those of his grandchildren. He and Joann were affectionately known and Grandad Jim and Grandma Jo to students at Chase and Lucas where their grandchildren attended school and participated in many sports and activities. They were a constant at games and their presence meant the world to their grandchildren.

The Sylvan Presbyterian Church was especially important to Jim and he often filled the pulpit and was a very active and faithful member in all church activities. His deep faith and abiding love of Jesus was the code he lived by and the foundation that he laid for his family. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched as a teacher, church leader, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Jim is preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, following her to Heaven after a short 12 weeks without her here on Earth. He is survived by his three daughters, Sheree Poskey and husband Mitch of Lawrence, KS, Kristi Mettlen and husband Wes of Lucas, KS, and Heidi Gillespie of Chase, KS; ten grandchildren Shane Mettlen and wife Jennifer, Clay Mettlen and wife Stephanie, Christopher Poskey and wife Sara, Sara (Mettlen) Smith and husband Chris, Jordan Poskey and wife Jeni, CJ Mettlen and wife Lindsay, Jamie Gillespie, Chelsee Poskey, Sierra Gillespie, and Breahna (Gillespie) Crawford and husband Jordan; and 21 (soon to be 22) great grandchildren.

On Friday, August 23, 2024, James M Eller went to meet his beloved wife Joann in their Heavenly home. He was born May 7, 1935 in Speed, Kansas the son of James and Doris Eller. Jim grew up in Kirwin, Kansas and graduated from Kirwin High School. Following graduation he joined the Army during the Korean War and worked on guided missles. After his enlistment he returned home to Kirwin and on November 25, 1956 he married Joann Crawford in Gaylord at the Nazarene Church. Soon after they moved to Hays, KS where he attended Fort Hays State University and attained a Bachelor's of Science degree in Education. He returned to Kirwin to begin his teaching career for 2 years followed by 2 years in Long Island, KS. During those years he taught PE and English and coached football, basketball, and baseball and directed school plays. In the summer of 1967 he and Joann moved to Sylvan Grove, KS. It was the first year of the new Sylvan Unified School district and the first year in the "new" school. Jim taught various subjects over the years including English, Science, PE and was always willing to take on any position that was needed at the school either as a teacher, coach or sponsor. Some of those included track, basketball, speech and school plays. In the 1972-73 school year he became the first girl's basketball coach at Sylvan Unified High School, leading the team to winning seasons. He went back to FHSU to earn his MS in High School Counseling, adding that to his duties at SUHS. During the summers he built Butler Buildings, worked at the Sylvan Elevator or helped farmers in the fields. Jim was instrumental is starting the Girl's Quivira Softball league and coached the team from Sylvan for many years. He retired from teaching in 1996 but continued to substitute teach for many years and later volunteered in the lunchroom serving lunches at the high school until he was into his 80s. Eduction was something that he loved and he passed that on to the next 2 generations of his family. His 3 daughters and several grandchildren have followed in his footsteps. When Jim and Joann moved to Sylvan Grove, they found a place to call home for over 50 years.Jim was full of fun and had a quick wit, often ready with a joke and was quick to laughter. He was the best example of a girl Dad, encouraging independence in his daughters and leading by example of how to treat people with kindness, to always have love in your heart, and to never judge or hate. Jim was a much loved teacher, counselor, and coach, showing compassion and acceptance to his students. Sports were always very important to Jim, he was a talented player and successful coach. He instilled the love of sports to his daughters and supported all of their activites and those of his grandchildren. He and Joann were affectionately known and Grandad Jim and Grandma Jo to students at Chase and Lucas where their grandchildren attended school and participated in many sports and activities. They were a constant at games and their presence meant the world to their grandchildren.The Sylvan Presbyterian Church was especially important to Jim and he often filled the pulpit and was a very active and faithful member in all church activities. His deep faith and abiding love of Jesus was the code he lived by and the foundation that he laid for his family. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched as a teacher, church leader, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Jim is preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, following her to Heaven after a short 12 weeks without her here on Earth. He is survived by his three daughters, Sheree Poskey and husband Mitch of Lawrence, KS, Kristi Mettlen and husband Wes of Lucas, KS, and Heidi Gillespie of Chase, KS; ten grandchildren Shane Mettlen and wife Jennifer, Clay Mettlen and wife Stephanie, Christopher Poskey and wife Sara, Sara (Mettlen) Smith and husband Chris, Jordan Poskey and wife Jeni, CJ Mettlen and wife Lindsay, Jamie Gillespie, Chelsee Poskey, Sierra Gillespie, and Breahna (Gillespie) Crawford and husband Jordan; and 21 (soon to be 22) great grandchildren.

James M Eller

Larry Vern Litton, 82, died Saturday, September 30, 2023 at Kearny County Hospital in Lakin, Kansas. He was born July 21, 1941 in Grinnell, Kansas, the son of Vern and Hazel (McQuitty) Litton. Larry grew up in rural Gove and Scott Counties, attending school in Scott City. He graduated from Scott Community High School in 1959.

While young, Larry spent school days with his maternal grandparents, Walter &amp; Annis McQuitty in Scott City, because his parents lived on the ranch in the country. Larry often commented that he played a part in developing many of the cakes Grandma McQuitty was known for. He described himself as the “guinea pig” for new recipes that needed to be taste-tested during the time he spent in their home.

On September 3, 1961, Larry married Judy Ann Carpenter in Shallow Water, Kansas. The union produced two children. Larry worked in the water well industry in the Scott City area before moving to Holcomb, Kansas in 1977. Larry became maintenance coordinator for the Sunflower Electric plant under construction in the early 1980’s and would work there for twenty years. During retirement, he worked various jobs to keep busy.

Larry followed his parents in joining and remaining active in the Order of Eastern Star, and Masons organizations. Prior to his death, he received his 50-year Eastern Star recognition. He also enjoyed hunting, shooting sports, and collecting firearms. He and Judy enjoyed travel. The pair visited numerous cities and countries and went on several cruise adventures. He and Judy raised their children with a love of water, and many family outings involved camping at the lake and water skiing.

Larry is survived by his wife, Judy, of the home; his son, Curtis Litton, of Holcomb, Kansas; his daughter, Chrisshell (Darrell) Walters of Lakin; four grandchildren: Jessica (Steve) Luttrell of Overton, Nebraska; Jarrett Walters of Kearney, Nebraska; Joshua Walters of Alexandria, Virginia; and Nichole Vaden of Wichita, Kansas, as well as five great-grandchildren. Larry is survived by two sisters: Leanna (Lester) Webb of Deerfield, Kansas, and Linda (Andy) Berning of Nebraska, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Brent Litton.

Graveside Services will be held at 9:00 am Saturday August 31, 2024 at the Lakin Cemetery in Lakin, Kansas. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Finney County Humane Society in care of Garnand Funeral Home as a tribute to Larry’s pal, a rescue-dog named Maddie.

Larry Vern Litton, 82, died Saturday, September 30, 2023 at Kearny County Hospital in Lakin, Kansas. He was born July 21, 1941 in Grinnell, Kansas, the son of Vern and Hazel (McQuitty) Litton. Larry grew up in rural Gove and Scott Counties, attending school in Scott City. He graduated from Scott Community High School in 1959.While young, Larry spent school days with his maternal grandparents, Walter &amp; Annis McQuitty in Scott City, because his parents lived on the ranch in the country. Larry often commented that he played a part in developing many of the cakes Grandma McQuitty was known for. He described himself as the “guinea pig” for new recipes that needed to be taste-tested during the time he spent in their home.On September 3, 1961, Larry married Judy Ann Carpenter in Shallow Water, Kansas. The union produced two children. Larry worked in the water well industry in the Scott City area before moving to Holcomb, Kansas in 1977. Larry became maintenance coordinator for the Sunflower Electric plant under construction in the early 1980’s and would work there for twenty years. During retirement, he worked various jobs to keep busy.Larry followed his parents in joining and remaining active in the Order of Eastern Star, and Masons organizations. Prior to his death, he received his 50-year Eastern Star recognition. He also enjoyed hunting, shooting sports, and collecting firearms. He and Judy enjoyed travel. The pair visited numerous cities and countries and went on several cruise adventures. He and Judy raised their children with a love of water, and many family outings involved camping at the lake and water skiing.Larry is survived by his wife, Judy, of the home; his son, Curtis Litton, of Holcomb, Kansas; his daughter, Chrisshell (Darrell) Walters of Lakin; four grandchildren: Jessica (Steve) Luttrell of Overton, Nebraska; Jarrett Walters of Kearney, Nebraska; Joshua Walters of Alexandria, Virginia; and Nichole Vaden of Wichita, Kansas, as well as five great-grandchildren. Larry is survived by two sisters: Leanna (Lester) Webb of Deerfield, Kansas, and Linda (Andy) Berning of Nebraska, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Brent Litton.Graveside Services will be held at 9:00 am Saturday August 31, 2024 at the Lakin Cemetery in Lakin, Kansas. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Finney County Humane Society in care of Garnand Funeral Home as a tribute to Larry’s pal, a rescue-dog named Maddie.

Larry Vern Litton

“Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! &nbsp;I once was lost, but now am found was blind but now I see.”

Beverly June (Fyler) Steitz of Inola, Oklahoma, transitioned from her earthly life to her heavenly home on August 24, 2024. &nbsp;She passed peacefully in her sleep to the arms of Jesus in the early hours of the morning, leaving quietly and with dignity.

Beverly was born in Great Bend, Kansas, on July 26, 1930, to William and Blanche Fyler, the fourth of six children. The family later moved to Bison, Kansas, where Beverly attended high school and graduated in 1948. December 18, 1949, Beverly married the love of her life, Eberhardt Steitz at the United Methodist Church. &nbsp;While Eber served his country, Beverly worked for a local dentist office. &nbsp;She was eager to help the young family’s finances and her years in the work force include Dollies, Western Auto, Ben Franklin, and a stint in the Elkhart School District cafeteria. Her favorite job, her most important job, and the vocation for which she was most proud, was that of a mother. On March 17, 1960, the young couple proudly added to their family a baby girl, Janice June. For Beverly, Janice was an answer to her dreams. Four years later, March 19, 1964, the proud couple added a son, Randy Jay, making their family unit complete. &nbsp;Beverly was also a favorite aunt to her many nephews and nieces before and after her children joined the flock. &nbsp;She definitely found her niche as a homemaker where her baking abilities went unsurpassed. &nbsp;Family members in the know say she was most famous for her cinnamon rolls and pumpkin pies. &nbsp;She was not shy about sharing her abilities with granddaughter, Tia, who now follows in her grandmother’s footsteps baking for family get togethers.

Beverly loved to sew, loved cutting hair and giving perms, enjoyed playing the piano by ear and singing to her children, was adventuress when traveling with her husband, and was the life of the party when sharing stories with others. &nbsp;The family laughingly recognize that when Beverly had something to say she had the floor until she was finished.

She and Eberhardt made Elkhart, Kansas, their family home. &nbsp;When he passed in 1993, she continued living in their family residence until she relocated in October, 2017, to Inola, Oklahoma, to live with her son, Randy, where she remained until December 2022. It was at this point she moved to Inola Care Facility.

Her last two years have been filled with the upheaval felt by many families as a cherished elder in the family makes that tragic transition from parent to child, from healthy to weak and tired, from cared for to misunderstood in the chaos of unspeakable illnesses of the old, tired and forgotten. &nbsp;Beverly left a grieving family behind, struggling to make sense of just what the horrors of dementia and how it ravishes a once vital human being bring.

Her legacy remains: Honest love only a parent can show a child and a willingness to forgive that which most think is unforgiveable. &nbsp;Her strengths are many and admired but when she passed her words were few. If she could talk, perhaps she would have used the words of a favorite hymn, “I’m but a stranger here, Heaven is my home; Earth is a desert drear, Heaven is my home. &nbsp;Danger and sorrow stand round me on every hand; Heaven is my fatherland, Heaven is my Home.”

Beverly June Steitz is survived by her sister Joyce Buchholtz; her son, Randy Jay Steitz (Teresa); daughter, Janice June Moe; two granddaughters, AhLia Hoover and Tia (Ryan) Drifka; five great-grandsons and one great-great-grandson; along with a slew of thankful and loving nieces and nephews. &nbsp;She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Eberhardt Steitz; her parents, William and Blanche Fyler; son-in-law, Ron Moe; brothers, Kenneth Fyler, Bill Fyler, Carl Fyler; and sister, Doris Jackson.

Funeral service will be Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at the First Lutheran Church, La Crosse, Kansas, with Pastor Phyllis Burdge officiating. &nbsp;Interment will be in the La Crosse City Cemetery, La Crosse, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to the First Lutheran Church, La Crosse, Kansas.

Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

<figure>
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 </figure>“Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! &nbsp;I once was lost, but now am found was blind but now I see.”Beverly June (Fyler) Steitz of Inola, Oklahoma, transitioned from her earthly life to her heavenly home on August 24, 2024. &nbsp;She passed peacefully in her sleep to the arms of Jesus in the early hours of the morning, leaving quietly and with dignity.Beverly was born in Great Bend, Kansas, on July 26, 1930, to William and Blanche Fyler, the fourth of six children. The family later moved to Bison, Kansas, where Beverly attended high school and graduated in 1948. December 18, 1949, Beverly married the love of her life, Eberhardt Steitz at the United Methodist Church. &nbsp;While Eber served his country, Beverly worked for a local dentist office. &nbsp;She was eager to help the young family’s finances and her years in the work force include Dollies, Western Auto, Ben Franklin, and a stint in the Elkhart School District cafeteria. Her favorite job, her most important job, and the vocation for which she was most proud, was that of a mother. On March 17, 1960, the young couple proudly added to their family a baby girl, Janice June. For Beverly, Janice was an answer to her dreams. Four years later, March 19, 1964, the proud couple added a son, Randy Jay, making their family unit complete. &nbsp;Beverly was also a favorite aunt to her many nephews and nieces before and after her children joined the flock. &nbsp;She definitely found her niche as a homemaker where her baking abilities went unsurpassed. &nbsp;Family members in the know say she was most famous for her cinnamon rolls and pumpkin pies. &nbsp;She was not shy about sharing her abilities with granddaughter, Tia, who now follows in her grandmother’s footsteps baking for family get togethers.Beverly loved to sew, loved cutting hair and giving perms, enjoyed playing the piano by ear and singing to her children, was adventuress when traveling with her husband, and was the life of the party when sharing stories with others. &nbsp;The family laughingly recognize that when Beverly had something to say she had the floor until she was finished.She and Eberhardt made Elkhart, Kansas, their family home. &nbsp;When he passed in 1993, she continued living in their family residence until she relocated in October, 2017, to Inola, Oklahoma, to live with her son, Randy, where she remained until December 2022. It was at this point she moved to Inola Care Facility.Her last two years have been filled with the upheaval felt by many families as a cherished elder in the family makes that tragic transition from parent to child, from healthy to weak and tired, from cared for to misunderstood in the chaos of unspeakable illnesses of the old, tired and forgotten. &nbsp;Beverly left a grieving family behind, struggling to make sense of just what the horrors of dementia and how it ravishes a once vital human being bring.Her legacy remains: Honest love only a parent can show a child and a willingness to forgive that which most think is unforgiveable. &nbsp;Her strengths are many and admired but when she passed her words were few. If she could talk, perhaps she would have used the words of a favorite hymn, “I’m but a stranger here, Heaven is my home; Earth is a desert drear, Heaven is my home. &nbsp;Danger and sorrow stand round me on every hand; Heaven is my fatherland, Heaven is my Home.”Beverly June Steitz is survived by her sister Joyce Buchholtz; her son, Randy Jay Steitz (Teresa); daughter, Janice June Moe; two granddaughters, AhLia Hoover and Tia (Ryan) Drifka; five great-grandsons and one great-great-grandson; along with a slew of thankful and loving nieces and nephews. &nbsp;She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Eberhardt Steitz; her parents, William and Blanche Fyler; son-in-law, Ron Moe; brothers, Kenneth Fyler, Bill Fyler, Carl Fyler; and sister, Doris Jackson.Funeral service will be Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at the First Lutheran Church, La Crosse, Kansas, with Pastor Phyllis Burdge officiating. &nbsp;Interment will be in the La Crosse City Cemetery, La Crosse, Kansas.In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to the First Lutheran Church, La Crosse, Kansas.Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

Beverly June (Fyler) Steitz

Deloris M. (Inderlied) Pianalto, 94, of Atwood, died Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood. She was born on November 29, 1929, in DeWitt, NE, the third child of William and Mildred Inderlied. Deloris was baptized on December 22, 1929, and confirmed on May 9, 1943, at Trinity Lutheran Church, in DeWitt, NE. Deloris attended Country School near the family farm where she was raised. She graduated from DeWitt High School in 1948, then went to work at the Elgin Watch Factory in Lincoln, NE.

In 1952, Deloris moved to California and married a service man in the Marines. They moved to Baton Rouge, LA when he got out of the service. They were blessed in 1956, with son Glenn and another son Roy, in 1969. After they divorced in 1974, Deloris moved back to her hometown, DeWitt, NE.

Deloris met and married Lester Pianalto on May 7, 1982, in Lincoln, NE. They lived on a dairy farm in Atwood, KS until moving into the town of Atwood in 1997.

Deloris joined Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Atwood, in October of 1994. She was a member of the Christian Mothers Altar Society, Homemakers Club, Coffee Club, Red hat Club and helped with many community projects. Deloris knew no stranger and always had a kind word and helped those in need. She loved watching football games, reading, dancing and many other hobbies.

She was preceded in death by her son Glenn in 1976; her parents; husband Lester Pianalto; sister Betty and brother Lowell.

Survivors include her son Roy Lee Harris and wife Jenn; three stepdaughters, Anita Squier, Diane Kostal and Teresa Clark; sisters, Meryl Hespin and Margie Aksamit; brother Bob Inderlied; five step-grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and many relatives and friends.

Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood. Funeral Mass is 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 23, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, with burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Atwood. Memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood or the Rawlins County Hospital and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>Deloris M. (Inderlied) Pianalto, 94, of Atwood, died Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood. She was born on November 29, 1929, in DeWitt, NE, the third child of William and Mildred Inderlied. Deloris was baptized on December 22, 1929, and confirmed on May 9, 1943, at Trinity Lutheran Church, in DeWitt, NE. Deloris attended Country School near the family farm where she was raised. She graduated from DeWitt High School in 1948, then went to work at the Elgin Watch Factory in Lincoln, NE.In 1952, Deloris moved to California and married a service man in the Marines. They moved to Baton Rouge, LA when he got out of the service. They were blessed in 1956, with son Glenn and another son Roy, in 1969. After they divorced in 1974, Deloris moved back to her hometown, DeWitt, NE.Deloris met and married Lester Pianalto on May 7, 1982, in Lincoln, NE. They lived on a dairy farm in Atwood, KS until moving into the town of Atwood in 1997.Deloris joined Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Atwood, in October of 1994. She was a member of the Christian Mothers Altar Society, Homemakers Club, Coffee Club, Red hat Club and helped with many community projects. Deloris knew no stranger and always had a kind word and helped those in need. She loved watching football games, reading, dancing and many other hobbies.She was preceded in death by her son Glenn in 1976; her parents; husband Lester Pianalto; sister Betty and brother Lowell.Survivors include her son Roy Lee Harris and wife Jenn; three stepdaughters, Anita Squier, Diane Kostal and Teresa Clark; sisters, Meryl Hespin and Margie Aksamit; brother Bob Inderlied; five step-grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and many relatives and friends.Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood. Funeral Mass is 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 23, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, with burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Atwood. Memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood or the Rawlins County Hospital and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Deloris Pianalto (Inderlied)

Mitchell Christopher Howard, 20, of Atwood, KS, died Thursday, August 22, 2024. He was born on August 29, 2003, in Benkelman, NE, to Christopher and Dana (Sabatka) Howard. He grew up in Bird City, KS and was a 2022 graduate of Cheylin High School. He worked at SurePoint Ag Systems in Atwood. Mitchell enjoyed driving go karts, working on cars and listening to music, loudly. You could always hear his car coming. He also loved to fish and proudly caught a 29 lb catfish in Atwood Lake. Mitchell had a loud personality and loved to make people laugh. One of his favorite things to do was mess with his little sister Kyla.

He was preceded in death by his cousins, Gage and Devon Mick.

He is survived by his parents; sister Kyla; grandparents, Dennis and Lila Howard and Brian and Connie Sabatka; several aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.

Funeral Service is 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Wesleyan Church, Bird City, KS, with burial in the McDonald Grace Cemetery, McDonald, KS. Memorials may be made to the Mitchell Howard Memorial Fund and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>Mitchell Christopher Howard, 20, of Atwood, KS, died Thursday, August 22, 2024. He was born on August 29, 2003, in Benkelman, NE, to Christopher and Dana (Sabatka) Howard. He grew up in Bird City, KS and was a 2022 graduate of Cheylin High School. He worked at SurePoint Ag Systems in Atwood. Mitchell enjoyed driving go karts, working on cars and listening to music, loudly. You could always hear his car coming. He also loved to fish and proudly caught a 29 lb catfish in Atwood Lake. Mitchell had a loud personality and loved to make people laugh. One of his favorite things to do was mess with his little sister Kyla.He was preceded in death by his cousins, Gage and Devon Mick.He is survived by his parents; sister Kyla; grandparents, Dennis and Lila Howard and Brian and Connie Sabatka; several aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.Funeral Service is 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Wesleyan Church, Bird City, KS, with burial in the McDonald Grace Cemetery, McDonald, KS. Memorials may be made to the Mitchell Howard Memorial Fund and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mitchell Christopher Howard

Robert Dale Wallsmith was born in Wichita Kansas on June 14, 1948. He passed away from cancer on August 25, 2024. He was the youngest of five siblings. Beverly French of Carbondale, Kansas, Michael Wallsmith (deceased) of South Carolina, Phillip Wallsmith of Topeka, Kansas, and Thomas Wallsmith (deceased) of Levant, Kansas. Bob was raised on a farm north of Levant, Kansas by Fred and Wilma Wallsmith (both deceased). Much of his childhood was spent helping around the farm and even digging their swimming pool for recreation. They also raised hunting dogs. Bob's love for guns and hunting would last him a lifetime. He would later share this hobby with his children, nephews, neighbor kids, and grandchildren. Bob attended Sacred Heart Catholic School in Colby, KS and then graduated from High School in Brewster, Kansas in 1967. He was a graduate of Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;

Over the years Bob worked in many professions. He worked at Service Oil Company in Colby, KS for many years. He owned the Grocery store in Brewster, KS. He worked as a mechanic at meatpacking plants in Colorado, Nebraska, Georgia, and Texas. Everywhere he went he made close contacts that he kept in touch with.&nbsp;

Bob was especially close with his grandkids. They have many great memories with him. The youngest, Hunter, recalls learning to drive with Grandpa’s 3-speed pickup in the yard. Caleb remembers shooting his first dove crouched down in a ditch with grandpa and his dad. Ashley says grandpa was always ready to help me. He even mowed my lawn when I lived in Brewster. Alexis will never forget getting 1000 kisses and neither will her kids! She was also very fond of her morning coffee dates with her mom and grandpa. Amber and grandpa always had a great time on the dance floor and when she started beauty school her biggest tip ever came from Grandpa Bob! Zebulun was named by grandpa. Alicia always looked forward to visiting Grandpa in Denver. She said he was as excited about our adventures such as the color run and zombie run as we were. She will never forget watching him wave goodbye from his yard as we got on the interstate to go home. Missy would love to say her best memory was all the times he stopped by and had dinner with her family in Brewster but it is actually dancing with him when she was a little girl! He was so energetic and fun. He spun her round and round and she thought he was the best dancer in the world! Tyler remembers getting a tool set from grandpa when he was very young. Grandpa took the time to go through each tool and tell him what it was called. He remembers asking him “Who is Allen?” when he got to the allen wrenches. He was very supportive of all that they did and made time for each of them.&nbsp;

Bob is survived by his three children, Julie Williams of Brewster, Kansas, Matthew (Stacy) Wallsmith of El Dorado, Kansas, and Jessica (Jim) House of Hays, Kansas. Ten grandchildren, Zebulun Wallsmith (Courtney Ress) of Colby, KS, Alexis (Wyatt) Werth of Winona, KS, Tyler Williams of Stockton, KS, Chevy Buck of Ark City, KS, Melissa (Aaron) Mann of Brewster, KS, Amber (Matthew) Isley of Hays, KS, Robert Caleb (Madison) of Wichita, KS, Ashley Barrie of Hays, KS, Alicia (Eric) Rincon of Hays, KS, and Hunter House of Hays, KS. And also twenty-five great-grandchildren.&nbsp;

To Bob, family was much more than blood. He also leaves behind many special friends that he made over the years. The Faber family, Robert Lehman, Stefan Toth, Sam Bailey and Bill Nopens. Just to name a few. The Galloway and Goss families of Denver and many exchange students throughout the world will forever think of him as “Grandpa Bob” and they all held a special place in his heart.&nbsp;

Cremation is under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

Memorials are suggested to: The ARC of Central Plains in care of the Funeral Home.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Bob's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com

<figure>
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 </figure>Robert Dale Wallsmith was born in Wichita Kansas on June 14, 1948. He passed away from cancer on August 25, 2024. He was the youngest of five siblings. Beverly French of Carbondale, Kansas, Michael Wallsmith (deceased) of South Carolina, Phillip Wallsmith of Topeka, Kansas, and Thomas Wallsmith (deceased) of Levant, Kansas. Bob was raised on a farm north of Levant, Kansas by Fred and Wilma Wallsmith (both deceased). Much of his childhood was spent helping around the farm and even digging their swimming pool for recreation. They also raised hunting dogs. Bob's love for guns and hunting would last him a lifetime. He would later share this hobby with his children, nephews, neighbor kids, and grandchildren. Bob attended Sacred Heart Catholic School in Colby, KS and then graduated from High School in Brewster, Kansas in 1967. He was a graduate of Fort Hays State University.&nbsp;Over the years Bob worked in many professions. He worked at Service Oil Company in Colby, KS for many years. He owned the Grocery store in Brewster, KS. He worked as a mechanic at meatpacking plants in Colorado, Nebraska, Georgia, and Texas. Everywhere he went he made close contacts that he kept in touch with.&nbsp;Bob was especially close with his grandkids. They have many great memories with him. The youngest, Hunter, recalls learning to drive with Grandpa’s 3-speed pickup in the yard. Caleb remembers shooting his first dove crouched down in a ditch with grandpa and his dad. Ashley says grandpa was always ready to help me. He even mowed my lawn when I lived in Brewster. Alexis will never forget getting 1000 kisses and neither will her kids! She was also very fond of her morning coffee dates with her mom and grandpa. Amber and grandpa always had a great time on the dance floor and when she started beauty school her biggest tip ever came from Grandpa Bob! Zebulun was named by grandpa. Alicia always looked forward to visiting Grandpa in Denver. She said he was as excited about our adventures such as the color run and zombie run as we were. She will never forget watching him wave goodbye from his yard as we got on the interstate to go home. Missy would love to say her best memory was all the times he stopped by and had dinner with her family in Brewster but it is actually dancing with him when she was a little girl! He was so energetic and fun. He spun her round and round and she thought he was the best dancer in the world! Tyler remembers getting a tool set from grandpa when he was very young. Grandpa took the time to go through each tool and tell him what it was called. He remembers asking him “Who is Allen?” when he got to the allen wrenches. He was very supportive of all that they did and made time for each of them.&nbsp;Bob is survived by his three children, Julie Williams of Brewster, Kansas, Matthew (Stacy) Wallsmith of El Dorado, Kansas, and Jessica (Jim) House of Hays, Kansas. Ten grandchildren, Zebulun Wallsmith (Courtney Ress) of Colby, KS, Alexis (Wyatt) Werth of Winona, KS, Tyler Williams of Stockton, KS, Chevy Buck of Ark City, KS, Melissa (Aaron) Mann of Brewster, KS, Amber (Matthew) Isley of Hays, KS, Robert Caleb (Madison) of Wichita, KS, Ashley Barrie of Hays, KS, Alicia (Eric) Rincon of Hays, KS, and Hunter House of Hays, KS. And also twenty-five great-grandchildren.&nbsp;To Bob, family was much more than blood. He also leaves behind many special friends that he made over the years. The Faber family, Robert Lehman, Stefan Toth, Sam Bailey and Bill Nopens. Just to name a few. The Galloway and Goss families of Denver and many exchange students throughout the world will forever think of him as “Grandpa Bob” and they all held a special place in his heart.&nbsp;Cremation is under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.Memorials are suggested to: The ARC of Central Plains in care of the Funeral Home.Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Bob's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com

Robert Dale Wallsmith

Shirley Elaine Boeve Olliff was born January 3, 1934, in rural Prairie View, the daughter of Louis and Edith (Bogart) Boeve. &nbsp;She grew up in Prairie View and Phillipsburg, along with her three brothers, Ron, Larry, and Gary. &nbsp;She graduated from Phillipsburg High School where she was a cheerleader, homecoming queen, and salutatorian of her graduating class. &nbsp;Shirley was an avid reader and loved to do crossword puzzles and word finds. &nbsp;

On February 13, 1955, she married Darel D. Olliff in Phillipsburg. &nbsp;To this union two sons were born, Kenton Lee and Gary Lynn. &nbsp;Shirley and Darel spent their working life in the funeral business and Shirley was a licensed funeral director. &nbsp;They lived in the funeral home in Phillipsburg until 1984 when they bought a home. They enjoyed many summer vacations at their cabin in Colorado and in later years loved having their two grandchildren spend time with them at the cabin. &nbsp;As their grandchildren grew, they spent a lot of time at grandpa and grandmas after school. Shirley loved sports and was often heard in the stands cheering and yelling at the officials at her boys and grandchildren’s games. Shirley and Darel loved attending their grandchildren’s events and spent quite a bit of time driving to see them perform. &nbsp;

Shirley was a member of the First Christian Church in Phillipsburg and served many roles there. &nbsp;She loved God, her family and her church. She was a volunteer at the hospital gift shop. &nbsp; Upon their retirement, Shirley and Darel spent many days eating out, going for coffee, and enjoying their lives. &nbsp;After Darel died in 2017 Shirley and her good friend Ireeta Ubben spent many days eating lunch together at the Bakery Shop. &nbsp;The biggest issue they usually had was coming out after lunch and trying to remember who drove that day! &nbsp;Shirley also spent a great deal of time with her sister-in-law Eunie Boeve and her forever friend Vicki Constable and good friend Ruth Hackerott. &nbsp;Eunie put together a book of pictures of Shirley’s life and Vicki would bring pictures to add. &nbsp;She enjoyed looking at the book to pass time at the Retirement Center. Shirley and Ruth enjoyed going out to eat and drives around Phillipsburg and the area. &nbsp;While she had many dear friends who helped her before and after Darel died, we can’t name them all. &nbsp;However, we do know Shirley was grateful for all of them. &nbsp;The last few years of her life she dealt with dementia. &nbsp;Even though this was difficult her humor and smile remained intact most of the time. &nbsp;&nbsp;

She was preceded in death by her husband Darel, her parents Louis and Edith Boeve, her stepmother Blanche Boeve, and her three brothers Ron, Larry, and Gary Boeve. &nbsp;She is survived by her two sons Kenton (Carol) and Gary Olliff. &nbsp;Her two grandchildren Sydnie (Jesse) Olliff-Brown and Thomas (Cydnee) Olliff. &nbsp;Also, her two greatgrandchildren Juniper and bonus greatgrandchild Paden, and several nieces and nephews and many friends

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 30 at 10:30 a.m. in the First Christian Church with Pastors LeRoy Herder &amp; Joel Hiesterman officiating. &nbsp;Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9:00 to 9:00 Wed. &amp; Thurs at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel with the family receiving friends from 7:00 to 8:30 Thurs. evening.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillips Co. Retirement Center Activities Fund, Hospice Services or the First Christian Church for Local Missions.

Shirley Elaine Boeve Olliff was born January 3, 1934, in rural Prairie View, the daughter of Louis and Edith (Bogart) Boeve. &nbsp;She grew up in Prairie View and Phillipsburg, along with her three brothers, Ron, Larry, and Gary. &nbsp;She graduated from Phillipsburg High School where she was a cheerleader, homecoming queen, and salutatorian of her graduating class. &nbsp;Shirley was an avid reader and loved to do crossword puzzles and word finds. &nbsp;On February 13, 1955, she married Darel D. Olliff in Phillipsburg. &nbsp;To this union two sons were born, Kenton Lee and Gary Lynn. &nbsp;Shirley and Darel spent their working life in the funeral business and Shirley was a licensed funeral director. &nbsp;They lived in the funeral home in Phillipsburg until 1984 when they bought a home. They enjoyed many summer vacations at their cabin in Colorado and in later years loved having their two grandchildren spend time with them at the cabin. &nbsp;As their grandchildren grew, they spent a lot of time at grandpa and grandmas after school. Shirley loved sports and was often heard in the stands cheering and yelling at the officials at her boys and grandchildren’s games. Shirley and Darel loved attending their grandchildren’s events and spent quite a bit of time driving to see them perform. &nbsp;Shirley was a member of the First Christian Church in Phillipsburg and served many roles there. &nbsp;She loved God, her family and her church. She was a volunteer at the hospital gift shop. &nbsp; Upon their retirement, Shirley and Darel spent many days eating out, going for coffee, and enjoying their lives. &nbsp;After Darel died in 2017 Shirley and her good friend Ireeta Ubben spent many days eating lunch together at the Bakery Shop. &nbsp;The biggest issue they usually had was coming out after lunch and trying to remember who drove that day! &nbsp;Shirley also spent a great deal of time with her sister-in-law Eunie Boeve and her forever friend Vicki Constable and good friend Ruth Hackerott. &nbsp;Eunie put together a book of pictures of Shirley’s life and Vicki would bring pictures to add. &nbsp;She enjoyed looking at the book to pass time at the Retirement Center. Shirley and Ruth enjoyed going out to eat and drives around Phillipsburg and the area. &nbsp;While she had many dear friends who helped her before and after Darel died, we can’t name them all. &nbsp;However, we do know Shirley was grateful for all of them. &nbsp;The last few years of her life she dealt with dementia. &nbsp;Even though this was difficult her humor and smile remained intact most of the time. &nbsp;&nbsp;She was preceded in death by her husband Darel, her parents Louis and Edith Boeve, her stepmother Blanche Boeve, and her three brothers Ron, Larry, and Gary Boeve. &nbsp;She is survived by her two sons Kenton (Carol) and Gary Olliff. &nbsp;Her two grandchildren Sydnie (Jesse) Olliff-Brown and Thomas (Cydnee) Olliff. &nbsp;Also, her two greatgrandchildren Juniper and bonus greatgrandchild Paden, and several nieces and nephews and many friendsFuneral services will be held Friday, August 30 at 10:30 a.m. in the First Christian Church with Pastors LeRoy Herder &amp; Joel Hiesterman officiating. &nbsp;Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery.Visitation will be from 9:00 to 9:00 Wed. &amp; Thurs at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel with the family receiving friends from 7:00 to 8:30 Thurs. evening.Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillips Co. Retirement Center Activities Fund, Hospice Services or the First Christian Church for Local Missions.

Shirley Elaine Boeve Olliff

Craig Alan Hitschmann, 64, of Natoma, Kansas, died on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Homestead of Russell Assisted Living in Russell, Kansas, surrounded by his loving family.

Craig was born on July 12, 1960, in Hoisington, Kansas, the son of Urban and Glenda (Wurm) Hitschmann. He grew up in Beaver, Kansas, and graduated from Claflin High School in the class of 1979. He met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Ronda Lea Beck on July 20, 1984, in Claflin, Kansas. From this union Craig and Ronda were blessed with two daughters Rebecca and Amy. The family moved and made their home in Natoma, Kansas in 1993. Craig owned C&amp;R Oil, as operator and pumper as well as enjoying his time on his ranch. He was a longtime member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville, Kansas and attended St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell, Kansas. He was also a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed team roping, competitive pattern horse racing, golfing and spending time with his friends and family. Craig’s biggest joy was spending time with his grandchildren.

Surviving family include his wife Ronda of the home, daughters Rebecca Rogge and husband Cody of Russell, Kansas and Amy Doyle and husband Dwayne of Wichita, Kansas; brother Marlin Hitschmann and wife Michelle of Hoisington, Kansas; sister Kim Hoffman and husband Jim of Stafford, Kansas; brother Curtis Hitschmann and wife Kathy of Hoisington, Kansas; and sister Tina Johnson of Hoisington, Kansas; five grandchildren Steele, Abel, Valeen, Asher, and Adalynn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and one niece.

The funeral mass to celebrate Craig’s life will be held at 10:00 A.M on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell, Kansas. A graveside service will be held at 1:30 P.M. at the St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Beaver, Kansas, Thursday afternoon, August 29th. Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, with family greeting guests from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M. Wednesday evening. A rosary will be held at 7 P.M. at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary Chapel Wednesday evening August 28th. Memorials may be given to the Craig Hitschmann Memorial and sent in care of the mortuary. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

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 </figure>Craig Alan Hitschmann, 64, of Natoma, Kansas, died on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Homestead of Russell Assisted Living in Russell, Kansas, surrounded by his loving family.Craig was born on July 12, 1960, in Hoisington, Kansas, the son of Urban and Glenda (Wurm) Hitschmann. He grew up in Beaver, Kansas, and graduated from Claflin High School in the class of 1979. He met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Ronda Lea Beck on July 20, 1984, in Claflin, Kansas. From this union Craig and Ronda were blessed with two daughters Rebecca and Amy. The family moved and made their home in Natoma, Kansas in 1993. Craig owned C&amp;R Oil, as operator and pumper as well as enjoying his time on his ranch. He was a longtime member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville, Kansas and attended St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell, Kansas. He was also a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed team roping, competitive pattern horse racing, golfing and spending time with his friends and family. Craig’s biggest joy was spending time with his grandchildren.Surviving family include his wife Ronda of the home, daughters Rebecca Rogge and husband Cody of Russell, Kansas and Amy Doyle and husband Dwayne of Wichita, Kansas; brother Marlin Hitschmann and wife Michelle of Hoisington, Kansas; sister Kim Hoffman and husband Jim of Stafford, Kansas; brother Curtis Hitschmann and wife Kathy of Hoisington, Kansas; and sister Tina Johnson of Hoisington, Kansas; five grandchildren Steele, Abel, Valeen, Asher, and Adalynn.He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and one niece.The funeral mass to celebrate Craig’s life will be held at 10:00 A.M on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell, Kansas. A graveside service will be held at 1:30 P.M. at the St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Beaver, Kansas, Thursday afternoon, August 29th. Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, with family greeting guests from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M. Wednesday evening. A rosary will be held at 7 P.M. at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary Chapel Wednesday evening August 28th. Memorials may be given to the Craig Hitschmann Memorial and sent in care of the mortuary. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Craig Alan Hitschmann

Daryl Walter Hartzog, 93, passed away on August 21, 2024 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Daryl was born on October 3, 1930 to Harold Clifton Hartzog and Dena Kroeze Hartzog in Long Island, Kansas. Following Harold’s death in 1936, Dena married George Gillespie in 1940 and the family moved to a farm south of Jennings where Daryl and his siblings grew to adulthood. Daryl was drafted during the Korean War and joined the Army in 1952, later completing 10 weeks of basic training at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. He served the remainder of his tour of duty at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and was honorably discharged in 1954.

After discharge from the US Army at the rank of Corporal, Daryl resumed working on the family farm and raised wheat, corn and milo in addition to managing a cattle and hog operation. Daryl married Marjorie Shimmick on October 25, 1959 in Jennings and they had four sons; Scott, Steve, Stann and Stacy. Daryl eventually turned over primary operation of the farm to Stann but never ceased to be involved in the farming operation. He drove the tractor and worked in the field as recently as two months prior to his death. With the exception of the most recent wheat harvest and

time spent in the Army, Daryl was involved with around 80 summer harvests, starting when he was 14.

Daryl was a 70 year member of the American Legion, and was very active in supporting and promoting Legion events and participating in the Honor Guard and firing squad at Memorial Day ceremonies and funerals. He was a strong supporter of veteran causes and was the inspiration for the re-establishment of a Sons of The American Legion squadron in Jennings. He was instrumental in working with the American Legion to promote the creation of the SAL in Jennings, and proud of his sons’ participation in the Sons of the American Legion. Daryl had a lifelong hobby of collecting coins, especially silver dollars. In later years, he gave out many valuable dollar coins as Christmas gifts. He also had a passion for collecting Winchester rifles and other rare guns. He collected small farm toys and was passionate about antique cars and pickups. Daryl was an avid sports fan, especially of all Kansas teams. Some of the more recent highlights of his life included a family trip to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, an Honor Flight to Washington, DC, a trip to Angel Fire, NM to help his sons lay a brick in his name at the Veterans Memorial Brick Walkway, and the realization of a lifelong desire to visit Saguaro National Park in Arizona, along with a visit to White Sands, NM on the return trip home.

One of the brightest parts of Daryl’s life was his only grandchild, Allison Hartzog. They enjoyed running the combine together, as well as taking rides on the 4 wheeler and the John Deere Gator, where he helped her learn how to drive.

Daryl is survived by his wife Marjorie Hartzog, sons Scott Hartzog and wife Tracey, Norcatur, KS, Steve Hartzog, Garland, TX, Stann Hartzog, Jennings, KS, Stacy Hartzog and wife Jocelyn, and granddaughter Allison Hartzog of Olathe, KS. Daryl was preceded in death by his father Harold Hartzog, his mother Dena Kroeze Hartzog Gillespie, step-father George Gillespie, brother Earl Hartzog, sister Darlene LaRue, brother in law Martin LaRue, and sisters in law, Patty Hartzog, Joyce Hartzog, and Erma Gillespie.

Viewing and visitation with family and friends will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 27 at the Jennings United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on August 28, 2024 at the Jennings United Methodist Church at 10:30 am. Interment will be in the Jennings Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jennings American Legion, Post #351. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com.

Daryl Walter Hartzog, 93, passed away on August 21, 2024 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Daryl was born on October 3, 1930 to Harold Clifton Hartzog and Dena Kroeze Hartzog in Long Island, Kansas. Following Harold’s death in 1936, Dena married George Gillespie in 1940 and the family moved to a farm south of Jennings where Daryl and his siblings grew to adulthood. Daryl was drafted during the Korean War and joined the Army in 1952, later completing 10 weeks of basic training at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. He served the remainder of his tour of duty at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and was honorably discharged in 1954.After discharge from the US Army at the rank of Corporal, Daryl resumed working on the family farm and raised wheat, corn and milo in addition to managing a cattle and hog operation. Daryl married Marjorie Shimmick on October 25, 1959 in Jennings and they had four sons; Scott, Steve, Stann and Stacy. Daryl eventually turned over primary operation of the farm to Stann but never ceased to be involved in the farming operation. He drove the tractor and worked in the field as recently as two months prior to his death. With the exception of the most recent wheat harvest andtime spent in the Army, Daryl was involved with around 80 summer harvests, starting when he was 14.Daryl was a 70 year member of the American Legion, and was very active in supporting and promoting Legion events and participating in the Honor Guard and firing squad at Memorial Day ceremonies and funerals. He was a strong supporter of veteran causes and was the inspiration for the re-establishment of a Sons of The American Legion squadron in Jennings. He was instrumental in working with the American Legion to promote the creation of the SAL in Jennings, and proud of his sons’ participation in the Sons of the American Legion. Daryl had a lifelong hobby of collecting coins, especially silver dollars. In later years, he gave out many valuable dollar coins as Christmas gifts. He also had a passion for collecting Winchester rifles and other rare guns. He collected small farm toys and was passionate about antique cars and pickups. Daryl was an avid sports fan, especially of all Kansas teams. Some of the more recent highlights of his life included a family trip to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, an Honor Flight to Washington, DC, a trip to Angel Fire, NM to help his sons lay a brick in his name at the Veterans Memorial Brick Walkway, and the realization of a lifelong desire to visit Saguaro National Park in Arizona, along with a visit to White Sands, NM on the return trip home.One of the brightest parts of Daryl’s life was his only grandchild, Allison Hartzog. They enjoyed running the combine together, as well as taking rides on the 4 wheeler and the John Deere Gator, where he helped her learn how to drive.Daryl is survived by his wife Marjorie Hartzog, sons Scott Hartzog and wife Tracey, Norcatur, KS, Steve Hartzog, Garland, TX, Stann Hartzog, Jennings, KS, Stacy Hartzog and wife Jocelyn, and granddaughter Allison Hartzog of Olathe, KS. Daryl was preceded in death by his father Harold Hartzog, his mother Dena Kroeze Hartzog Gillespie, step-father George Gillespie, brother Earl Hartzog, sister Darlene LaRue, brother in law Martin LaRue, and sisters in law, Patty Hartzog, Joyce Hartzog, and Erma Gillespie.Viewing and visitation with family and friends will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 27 at the Jennings United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on August 28, 2024 at the Jennings United Methodist Church at 10:30 am. Interment will be in the Jennings Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jennings American Legion, Post #351. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com.

Daryl Walter Hartzog

August 21, 2024 was a warm but breezy day, the kind of day Chuck Rader &nbsp;would love to be out either tinkering in his shop or sitting on the &nbsp;deck enjoying the peacefulness of Harlan with his wife Vicki. This day &nbsp;was when this amazing &nbsp;and kind man's life would end and leave this &nbsp;world to start a new journey with the Lord. Chuck passed away &nbsp;peacefully in the early morning at his home in Harlan, surrounded by &nbsp;his wife Vicki, son Chris, and sister-in-law Peggy.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Charles Robert (Chuck) Rader was born on March 14, 1936 on his grandparents farm, Bertha (Purdy) and Charlie Atherton, south of &nbsp;Speed, KS. He was the first born child to Lloyd and Zelma (Atherton) &nbsp;Rader. &nbsp;Chuck started school at an very early age of one, as his &nbsp;mother was a teacher at a country school south of Speed and took him &nbsp;to school with her since she had no sitter. Chuck grew up on the &nbsp;family farm west of Kirwin and attended grade and high school in &nbsp;Kirwin. He married Cecile Power in 1956. To this union were born two &nbsp;children, Chris and Cheryl. The marriage ended in divorce and Chuck &nbsp;went to California where he became involved with his love of music.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Chuck returned to Kansas and worked for Beech Aircraft in Wichita. He &nbsp;later moved to Harlan, KS, where he began working for the railroad. &nbsp;He remarried twice more, with one marriage ending in divorce and the &nbsp;other in death of his spouse. He later married Vicki Steele on July &nbsp;27, 1998 at Rader, MO. &nbsp;They made their home in Harlan for the remainder of Chuck's life.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Chuck continued his love of music from his early life up until shortly &nbsp;before his death. He played in a dance band around the Smith Center &nbsp;area and later, he formed a small unique band with area musicians, &nbsp;known as the Bow Creek Skunkrunners. The Skunkrunners became widely &nbsp;known for their fun loving &nbsp;antics and hillbilly dress. &nbsp;If you would &nbsp;attend an antique engine show in the area, the Skunkrunners would &nbsp;appear and be playing their bluegrass songs. The group still got &nbsp;together up until a few years ago, when illness and mother nature &nbsp;prevented further playing.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Chuck loved to travel and besides music, another of his loves was the Big Bend Area in Texas. Chuck and Vicki enjoyed their winters on their &nbsp;place there for many years. &nbsp;Chuck wanted to make Texas his final &nbsp;home, but that was not to be. He never tired of pulling jokes or &nbsp;making people laugh. He acquired a magnitude of friends throughout his &nbsp;life with his music and will be sadly missed by many.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Chuck is survived by his wife Vicki of the home; son Chris and wife &nbsp;Priscilla Rader of Salina, KS; sisters-in-law Peggy and husband Ken &nbsp;Hiatt of Pagosa Springs, CO; &nbsp;Kathy Steinke of Olpe KS; brother-in-law &nbsp;Terry Steele of Denison, TX; stepdaughters Jamie Roth of Phillipsburg, &nbsp;KS; Jenny Nichols of Holdredge, NE, and stepson Joe Lour of Grand &nbsp;Island, NE. &nbsp;He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, twenty-two great &nbsp;grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in life by &nbsp;his parents Lloyd and Zelma Rader, his daughter Cheryl, sister Glenda &nbsp;and mother and father-in-law Bill and Mary Steele.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A service and celebration of life will be held on September 4 at 10:30 at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel in Phillipsburg, KS, with close &nbsp;friend Carl Feril performing the service. Chuck loved Harlan and has &nbsp;lived there for over fifty years. He was a well known figure of the &nbsp;area and when you mentioned his name, there was always a story to tell &nbsp;among the locals. To keep his memory alive, memorials may be made to &nbsp;the Harlan HIstorical Society located in the old Harlan Church and/or NWKareS, the hospice service that cared for Chuck during his final days.

August 21, 2024 was a warm but breezy day, the kind of day Chuck Rader &nbsp;would love to be out either tinkering in his shop or sitting on the &nbsp;deck enjoying the peacefulness of Harlan with his wife Vicki. This day &nbsp;was when this amazing &nbsp;and kind man's life would end and leave this &nbsp;world to start a new journey with the Lord. Chuck passed away &nbsp;peacefully in the early morning at his home in Harlan, surrounded by &nbsp;his wife Vicki, son Chris, and sister-in-law Peggy.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Charles Robert (Chuck) Rader was born on March 14, 1936 on his grandparents farm, Bertha (Purdy) and Charlie Atherton, south of &nbsp;Speed, KS. He was the first born child to Lloyd and Zelma (Atherton) &nbsp;Rader. &nbsp;Chuck started school at an very early age of one, as his &nbsp;mother was a teacher at a country school south of Speed and took him &nbsp;to school with her since she had no sitter. Chuck grew up on the &nbsp;family farm west of Kirwin and attended grade and high school in &nbsp;Kirwin. He married Cecile Power in 1956. To this union were born two &nbsp;children, Chris and Cheryl. The marriage ended in divorce and Chuck &nbsp;went to California where he became involved with his love of music.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Chuck returned to Kansas and worked for Beech Aircraft in Wichita. He &nbsp;later moved to Harlan, KS, where he began working for the railroad. &nbsp;He remarried twice more, with one marriage ending in divorce and the &nbsp;other in death of his spouse. He later married Vicki Steele on July &nbsp;27, 1998 at Rader, MO. &nbsp;They made their home in Harlan for the remainder of Chuck's life.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Chuck continued his love of music from his early life up until shortly &nbsp;before his death. He played in a dance band around the Smith Center &nbsp;area and later, he formed a small unique band with area musicians, &nbsp;known as the Bow Creek Skunkrunners. The Skunkrunners became widely &nbsp;known for their fun loving &nbsp;antics and hillbilly dress. &nbsp;If you would &nbsp;attend an antique engine show in the area, the Skunkrunners would &nbsp;appear and be playing their bluegrass songs. The group still got &nbsp;together up until a few years ago, when illness and mother nature &nbsp;prevented further playing.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Chuck loved to travel and besides music, another of his loves was the Big Bend Area in Texas. Chuck and Vicki enjoyed their winters on their &nbsp;place there for many years. &nbsp;Chuck wanted to make Texas his final &nbsp;home, but that was not to be. He never tired of pulling jokes or &nbsp;making people laugh. He acquired a magnitude of friends throughout his &nbsp;life with his music and will be sadly missed by many.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Chuck is survived by his wife Vicki of the home; son Chris and wife &nbsp;Priscilla Rader of Salina, KS; sisters-in-law Peggy and husband Ken &nbsp;Hiatt of Pagosa Springs, CO; &nbsp;Kathy Steinke of Olpe KS; brother-in-law &nbsp;Terry Steele of Denison, TX; stepdaughters Jamie Roth of Phillipsburg, &nbsp;KS; Jenny Nichols of Holdredge, NE, and stepson Joe Lour of Grand &nbsp;Island, NE. &nbsp;He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, twenty-two great &nbsp;grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in life by &nbsp;his parents Lloyd and Zelma Rader, his daughter Cheryl, sister Glenda &nbsp;and mother and father-in-law Bill and Mary Steele.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A service and celebration of life will be held on September 4 at 10:30 at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel in Phillipsburg, KS, with close &nbsp;friend Carl Feril performing the service. Chuck loved Harlan and has &nbsp;lived there for over fifty years. He was a well known figure of the &nbsp;area and when you mentioned his name, there was always a story to tell &nbsp;among the locals. To keep his memory alive, memorials may be made to &nbsp;the Harlan HIstorical Society located in the old Harlan Church and/or NWKareS, the hospice service that cared for Chuck during his final days.

Charles Robert (Chuck) Rader

Bob was born June 29, 1925 on the land his Grandpa Joe McClelland homesteaded, in the house his Grandpa had built about 1898. His parents were Charles and Emma (Williams) McClelland. He had an older sister, Beth (Bryant) and older brother Kenneth. &nbsp;The McClelland family moved to a farm ½ mile south of Long Island when Bob was a young child. &nbsp;Bob started school there and went there almost the end of third grade. Then they moved back to the family homestead 8 ½ miles northwest of Almena. &nbsp;Bob finished grade school at the Star Country School 1 ½ miles from the farm. &nbsp;Bob attended High School in Almena, graduating in 1943. &nbsp;He helped his Dad on the farm until he was drafted in 1944.

Bob was drafted and sworn into the Army August 4, 1944 at Fort Leavenworth. 26 guys from Norton County were drafted at the same time. &nbsp;From Fort Leavenworth he was sent to Fort Hood Texas for basic training. &nbsp;From there to Fort Lawton, Seattle WA and on to Hawaii on the USS Pickaway. &nbsp;The next stop was to Saipan for more training, then on to Okinawa. &nbsp;The army was deployed by lowering them in a cargo net and slept on the ground the first night.

There were 4 Divisions on the front line in Okinawa. &nbsp;Bob was with the 27th Infantry Division. The invasion began on April 1, 1945. &nbsp;Bob’s unit fought on the front lines until there were only 56 men out of 250 left and on April 29, 1945, the army took those 56 soldiers off the front line, and replaced with a whole other unit of 250 men. &nbsp;April 29th is significant in that it was Hirohito’s (124th Emperor of Japan) birthday. &nbsp;On Hirohito’s birthday the Japanese called for an all-out Banzai attack (which is a mass attack, all-out, usually desperate attack). &nbsp;This attack that night drove our (#250 men) U.S. soldiers back ½ mile North…so badly that the Japanese recovered Moshinawa (Machinato) Air Field. &nbsp;It took the U.S. soldiers 2-3 weeks to regain the ground. &nbsp;Had Bob’s unit of #56 men not been replaced by the #250…those 56 men would have pretty certainly been killed. &nbsp;

Bob’s unit was getting ready to train for invasion when the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. &nbsp;3 days later, August 9th, United States military dropped a second bomb on Nagasaki. &nbsp;Japanese leaders then began steps toward surrender. &nbsp;Injuries and death toll from the bombs dropped at Hiroshima and Nagasaki estimated at 130,000. &nbsp; Had the US military carried out the invasion that Bob was getting ready to train for, the estimated loss of life and injuries would have been 500,000…not counting injuries and loss of life for the Japanese army and civilians. &nbsp;

The group stayed in Japan for 11 months. &nbsp;Bob returned to the US on the USS Stetson Victory ship back to Seattle. &nbsp;He received his discharge on August 29, 1945. &nbsp;Bob remembered he rode on the old train arriving back in Norton at 3 am.

After his discharge, he farmed with his Dad and worked other jobs as well.

Donna Schilowsky became the love of Bob’s life. &nbsp;She was a sophomore in high school in Almena when they first got glimpses of each other. &nbsp;He finally met her at a party and they started dating. &nbsp;They were married May 29, 1949 and moved to the farm where Bob was born. &nbsp;They spent all their married life there.

They welcomed 2 children into this union, Janice Kay in 1952 and Dennis Jay in 1958. &nbsp;Then they welcomed grandchildren and great grandchildren through the years. &nbsp;They both enjoyed spending time with the family and friends.

Bob never knew a stranger…he loved to visit and loved to be around people. &nbsp;He loved to drive, loved the mountains, loved to read and could remember names of people like none other! &nbsp;He was quite a history buff too.

In 2006, Bob and Donna were contemplating moving into Almena and started looking at houses. &nbsp;Their love story took a sad turn in 2006 when Donna had a massive cerebral hemorrhage and died. &nbsp;Bob moved into the Wheatridge apartments in Almena. &nbsp;The following year his son, Dennis suddenly died of a stroke as well. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bob was a member of the Almena Congregational Church and Almena Bible Church. &nbsp;He knew the Lord Jesus. &nbsp;He believed Christ died for him and paid the penalty for his sins. &nbsp;He loved the Lord and wanted to obey Him. &nbsp;

Bob was able to spend 98 ½ years of his life living independently. &nbsp;Then his health started digressing and he moved to the Phillips County Retirement Center in Phillipsburg where he died. Bob was ready to go home and be with his Lord and Savior.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Donna McClelland, parents Charles and Emma McClelland, son Dennis McClelland, brother Kenneth McClelland, and sister Beth Bryant.

Survivors include his daughter Jan Long and husband Tom of Phillipsburg, Kansas, daughter-in-law Carla Bruning of Glade, Kansas, grandchildren Tana Christensen and husband Nicholas of Orleans, Nebraska, Kelly Leonard and husband Rustin of Salina, Kansas, Brooke Shikhman and husband Arthur of Brooklyn, New York, Jake McClelland of Phillipsburg, Kansas, and Lori Schiefen of Overland Park, Kansas.

A funeral service for Bob McClelland will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, with Harold Rivera officiating. Burial will follow at the Mount Hope Cemetery in Almena, Kansas, with military honors conducted by the Norton American Legion Harmonson-Redd Post 63, and the Fort Riley Honor Guard.

Bob will lie in-state on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Monday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a visitation on Monday evening from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel in Phillipsburg, Kansas.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillips County Retirement Center or the Almena City Library.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724622055704.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Bob was born June 29, 1925 on the land his Grandpa Joe McClelland homesteaded, in the house his Grandpa had built about 1898. His parents were Charles and Emma (Williams) McClelland. He had an older sister, Beth (Bryant) and older brother Kenneth. &nbsp;The McClelland family moved to a farm ½ mile south of Long Island when Bob was a young child. &nbsp;Bob started school there and went there almost the end of third grade. Then they moved back to the family homestead 8 ½ miles northwest of Almena. &nbsp;Bob finished grade school at the Star Country School 1 ½ miles from the farm. &nbsp;Bob attended High School in Almena, graduating in 1943. &nbsp;He helped his Dad on the farm until he was drafted in 1944.Bob was drafted and sworn into the Army August 4, 1944 at Fort Leavenworth. 26 guys from Norton County were drafted at the same time. &nbsp;From Fort Leavenworth he was sent to Fort Hood Texas for basic training. &nbsp;From there to Fort Lawton, Seattle WA and on to Hawaii on the USS Pickaway. &nbsp;The next stop was to Saipan for more training, then on to Okinawa. &nbsp;The army was deployed by lowering them in a cargo net and slept on the ground the first night.There were 4 Divisions on the front line in Okinawa. &nbsp;Bob was with the 27th Infantry Division. The invasion began on April 1, 1945. &nbsp;Bob’s unit fought on the front lines until there were only 56 men out of 250 left and on April 29, 1945, the army took those 56 soldiers off the front line, and replaced with a whole other unit of 250 men. &nbsp;April 29th is significant in that it was Hirohito’s (124th Emperor of Japan) birthday. &nbsp;On Hirohito’s birthday the Japanese called for an all-out Banzai attack (which is a mass attack, all-out, usually desperate attack). &nbsp;This attack that night drove our (#250 men) U.S. soldiers back ½ mile North…so badly that the Japanese recovered Moshinawa (Machinato) Air Field. &nbsp;It took the U.S. soldiers 2-3 weeks to regain the ground. &nbsp;Had Bob’s unit of #56 men not been replaced by the #250…those 56 men would have pretty certainly been killed. &nbsp;Bob’s unit was getting ready to train for invasion when the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. &nbsp;3 days later, August 9th, United States military dropped a second bomb on Nagasaki. &nbsp;Japanese leaders then began steps toward surrender. &nbsp;Injuries and death toll from the bombs dropped at Hiroshima and Nagasaki estimated at 130,000. &nbsp; Had the US military carried out the invasion that Bob was getting ready to train for, the estimated loss of life and injuries would have been 500,000…not counting injuries and loss of life for the Japanese army and civilians. &nbsp;The group stayed in Japan for 11 months. &nbsp;Bob returned to the US on the USS Stetson Victory ship back to Seattle. &nbsp;He received his discharge on August 29, 1945. &nbsp;Bob remembered he rode on the old train arriving back in Norton at 3 am.After his discharge, he farmed with his Dad and worked other jobs as well.Donna Schilowsky became the love of Bob’s life. &nbsp;She was a sophomore in high school in Almena when they first got glimpses of each other. &nbsp;He finally met her at a party and they started dating. &nbsp;They were married May 29, 1949 and moved to the farm where Bob was born. &nbsp;They spent all their married life there.They welcomed 2 children into this union, Janice Kay in 1952 and Dennis Jay in 1958. &nbsp;Then they welcomed grandchildren and great grandchildren through the years. &nbsp;They both enjoyed spending time with the family and friends.Bob never knew a stranger…he loved to visit and loved to be around people. &nbsp;He loved to drive, loved the mountains, loved to read and could remember names of people like none other! &nbsp;He was quite a history buff too.In 2006, Bob and Donna were contemplating moving into Almena and started looking at houses. &nbsp;Their love story took a sad turn in 2006 when Donna had a massive cerebral hemorrhage and died. &nbsp;Bob moved into the Wheatridge apartments in Almena. &nbsp;The following year his son, Dennis suddenly died of a stroke as well. &nbsp;&nbsp;Bob was a member of the Almena Congregational Church and Almena Bible Church. &nbsp;He knew the Lord Jesus. &nbsp;He believed Christ died for him and paid the penalty for his sins. &nbsp;He loved the Lord and wanted to obey Him. &nbsp;Bob was able to spend 98 ½ years of his life living independently. &nbsp;Then his health started digressing and he moved to the Phillips County Retirement Center in Phillipsburg where he died. Bob was ready to go home and be with his Lord and Savior.He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Donna McClelland, parents Charles and Emma McClelland, son Dennis McClelland, brother Kenneth McClelland, and sister Beth Bryant.Survivors include his daughter Jan Long and husband Tom of Phillipsburg, Kansas, daughter-in-law Carla Bruning of Glade, Kansas, grandchildren Tana Christensen and husband Nicholas of Orleans, Nebraska, Kelly Leonard and husband Rustin of Salina, Kansas, Brooke Shikhman and husband Arthur of Brooklyn, New York, Jake McClelland of Phillipsburg, Kansas, and Lori Schiefen of Overland Park, Kansas.A funeral service for Bob McClelland will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, with Harold Rivera officiating. Burial will follow at the Mount Hope Cemetery in Almena, Kansas, with military honors conducted by the Norton American Legion Harmonson-Redd Post 63, and the Fort Riley Honor Guard.Bob will lie in-state on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Monday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a visitation on Monday evening from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel in Phillipsburg, Kansas.Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillips County Retirement Center or the Almena City Library.

Robert Richard McClelland

Charlotte Ann (Powell) Shaffer, 93, of Bunker Hill, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at the Russell Regional Hospital.

Charlotte was born January 3, 1931, in Salina, Kansas.&nbsp; She was the daughter of Charles and Goldie (Anderson) Powell.&nbsp; As a youth, she grew up in Salina and later moved to Bennington where she graduated from Bennington High School with the Class of 1947.&nbsp; She then attended and graduated from Kansas Wesleyan University with a bachelor’s degree in music education and a minor in Spanish in 1951.&nbsp; While teaching she continued her education obtaining her master’s in music in 1960 and her Music Education Specialist degree in 1972, both from Fort Hays State University. Charlotte’s first teaching job was at Bunker Hill.&nbsp; It was in Bunker Hill where she met and fell in love with Everett Ralph Shaffer.&nbsp; They were later united in marriage in a double wedding to include her sister Barbara Powell and Lowell Beach Sykes on September 4, 1955, in Salina.&nbsp; This union was blessed with a daughter, Connie.&nbsp; They made their home in Bunker Hill.&nbsp; Everett preceded her in death on January 31, 2010.

Charlotte was a Music and Spanish Teacher for the schools in Bunker Hill, Lorraine, Center School, Mt Brokaw and 3 Corners.&nbsp; Charlotte is best known for her many years in the USD 407 District.&nbsp; After retiring from full-time teaching, she substituted at local schools for many years.&nbsp; She also taught music privately with instruction in Guitar, Piano, Organ, Violin, Cello and the Viola.&nbsp; She loved sharing her musical talents anywhere.&nbsp; Charlotte played for Dorrance Catholic Church, Trinity United Methodist Church, the Bible Baptist Church and the First Congregational Church. &nbsp;God gifted her with musical talent, and she served him throughout her life with that gift as well as teaching God’s word to youth, young adults, and senior adults. Charlotte was extremely passionate about music and enjoyed all aspects of it. She shared her gift of music with literally hundreds and hundreds of students and adults. &nbsp;Many of those people credit her with their love of music to this day.&nbsp; In her spare time, she loved collecting antique glassware, reading a good book, canning vegetables and fruits, and spending time with family.

Charlotte’s surviving family includes her daughter, Connie Blanke and husband Michael of Russell, Kansas and her loving pet companion, Rover. She also leaves behind many nieces &amp; nephews and her brother-in-Law Lowell Sykes.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents, husband Everett, and sister Barbara Sykes. Celebration of Charlotte’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM, Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Otterbein Methodist Church.&nbsp; A burial will follow at the Bunker Hill Cemetery in Bunker Hill.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary.&nbsp; A memorial has been established with the First Congregational Church.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724621864945.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Charlotte Ann (Powell) Shaffer, 93, of Bunker Hill, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at the Russell Regional Hospital.Charlotte was born January 3, 1931, in Salina, Kansas.&nbsp; She was the daughter of Charles and Goldie (Anderson) Powell.&nbsp; As a youth, she grew up in Salina and later moved to Bennington where she graduated from Bennington High School with the Class of 1947.&nbsp; She then attended and graduated from Kansas Wesleyan University with a bachelor’s degree in music education and a minor in Spanish in 1951.&nbsp; While teaching she continued her education obtaining her master’s in music in 1960 and her Music Education Specialist degree in 1972, both from Fort Hays State University. Charlotte’s first teaching job was at Bunker Hill.&nbsp; It was in Bunker Hill where she met and fell in love with Everett Ralph Shaffer.&nbsp; They were later united in marriage in a double wedding to include her sister Barbara Powell and Lowell Beach Sykes on September 4, 1955, in Salina.&nbsp; This union was blessed with a daughter, Connie.&nbsp; They made their home in Bunker Hill.&nbsp; Everett preceded her in death on January 31, 2010.Charlotte was a Music and Spanish Teacher for the schools in Bunker Hill, Lorraine, Center School, Mt Brokaw and 3 Corners.&nbsp; Charlotte is best known for her many years in the USD 407 District.&nbsp; After retiring from full-time teaching, she substituted at local schools for many years.&nbsp; She also taught music privately with instruction in Guitar, Piano, Organ, Violin, Cello and the Viola.&nbsp; She loved sharing her musical talents anywhere.&nbsp; Charlotte played for Dorrance Catholic Church, Trinity United Methodist Church, the Bible Baptist Church and the First Congregational Church. &nbsp;God gifted her with musical talent, and she served him throughout her life with that gift as well as teaching God’s word to youth, young adults, and senior adults. Charlotte was extremely passionate about music and enjoyed all aspects of it. She shared her gift of music with literally hundreds and hundreds of students and adults. &nbsp;Many of those people credit her with their love of music to this day.&nbsp; In her spare time, she loved collecting antique glassware, reading a good book, canning vegetables and fruits, and spending time with family.Charlotte’s surviving family includes her daughter, Connie Blanke and husband Michael of Russell, Kansas and her loving pet companion, Rover. She also leaves behind many nieces &amp; nephews and her brother-in-Law Lowell Sykes.Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents, husband Everett, and sister Barbara Sykes. Celebration of Charlotte’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM, Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Otterbein Methodist Church.&nbsp; A burial will follow at the Bunker Hill Cemetery in Bunker Hill.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary.&nbsp; A memorial has been established with the First Congregational Church.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Charlotte Ann (Powell) Shaffer

Our much loved Jacob Edward Taggart (Jake/ “JT”) died Monday, August 19th in an auto accident in Western Kansas as he traveled cross-country from California to begin a new job opportunity in Boston. He planned to spend time in the midwest with family and friends.

Jake was born in December 1993 in Indianapolis where he grew up and lived most of his life; he also spent time in California where he grew to love its culture, climate and people.

While his death was a direct result from an auto accident, he was collateral damage in the opioid crisis. Jake struggled with drug addiction for many years. It defined most of his twenties. He was brilliant and complex. Despite his struggles, he received a BS in Infomatics, joined a two month intensive coding program and became a talented software engineer.

Jake tried many times to get sober on his own and was successful for short periods of time. He saw many friends overdose and pass away. He never wanted to become that statistic. No one does. He wanted to honor those deaths by overcoming the powerful draw of addiction and living a healthy, strong and happy life.

In 2022, Jake entered a period of his life devoted to intense recovery efforts with amazing, caring, devoted talented professionals. He made multiple attempts in inpatient and outpatient rehab, recovery and yes, had relapses. It was in these years that he found his people and his recovery community in California being sober living and in a 12 step program. The journey to recovery is not linear, but the support he found allowed him to be sober for nearly a year. He built on that success and secured a new job at a specialty technical software company he was to begin in September. He began to build his east coast recovery community where he wanted to become a sponsor for others struggling with addiction.

Jake was brilliant and loved to read and write. He wrote stories regularly from the time he was 8 years old. He regularly tossed out obscure vocabulary words assuming we would know them. When talking to Jake, it was important to remember that Google is your friend. He spent his youth playing and watching sports of every type but his passion was baseball. There were countless hours spent at Little League baseball fields from the age of 5 through high school. Music of every type and genre was his adult passion and he loved to share new artists with others. And, all those Phish shows!

A life can’t be captured in an obituary, especially if addiction has been a part of that life. Addiction pulls its victims down while family and friends often detach to save themselves. Know that if you pulled away from him, he understood. We love and cherish each of you. Jake was the youngest of our immediate family; one that we viewed as our greatest life challenge. We took that challenge head on. We had no choice because he was ours; a part of us. We changed our lives because of and in spite of him over and over. In the few short days since his passing, we’ve been inundated with hilarious stories about him, examples of his tenderness, kindness, and his incredible way with words that changed and saved lives.

Jake is survived by his parents, Sheila Taggart and Bob Taggart; his brothers, Travis, Pat and Ben; His “Gran,” Jean Goebel; his aunt, Linda Oetting; his Kimball step-brothers Jeff, Zach &amp; Pat; as well as so many beloved Aunts, Uncles and cousins (particularly Sam who held a special place in his heart); The Eichenbergers, Atteberrys, Goebels, Deneaus and the Oettings were just some of the multitude of family that loved and cared deeply for him. His friends are countless and include those that are Taggarts in spirit. He was predeceased by his Grandfather, Larry Goebel, who we feel was waiting for him. Together, they are our guardian angels.

A California sunset Celebration of Life is planned for September 6th at 6:30 P.M. at the shoreline of the water at 1 Driftwood Street Marina del Ray, CA 90292.

The Indiana Celebration of Life will be held at a future date in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Although we are beyond devastated by his loss just when he was moving into his next chapter, we are grateful that we had the opportunity to spend time with the beautiful soul we loved and always knew was still somewhere inside.

Everyone who loved and cared for Jake was hoping that he had overcome the worst of his battles. His future was looking bright again. Our hearts are shattered. We feel his loss deeply but we are grateful that he died happy, healthy and ready to take on life.

The below was borrowed from a beautifully written obituary.

“If you yourself are struggling from addiction, know that every breath is a fresh start. Know that hundreds of thousands of families who have lost someone to this disease are praying and rooting for you. Know that we believe with all our hearts that you can and will make it. It is never too late.”

Our much loved Jacob Edward Taggart (Jake/ “JT”) died Monday, August 19th in an auto accident in Western Kansas as he traveled cross-country from California to begin a new job opportunity in Boston. He planned to spend time in the midwest with family and friends.Jake was born in December 1993 in Indianapolis where he grew up and lived most of his life; he also spent time in California where he grew to love its culture, climate and people.While his death was a direct result from an auto accident, he was collateral damage in the opioid crisis. Jake struggled with drug addiction for many years. It defined most of his twenties. He was brilliant and complex. Despite his struggles, he received a BS in Infomatics, joined a two month intensive coding program and became a talented software engineer.Jake tried many times to get sober on his own and was successful for short periods of time. He saw many friends overdose and pass away. He never wanted to become that statistic. No one does. He wanted to honor those deaths by overcoming the powerful draw of addiction and living a healthy, strong and happy life.In 2022, Jake entered a period of his life devoted to intense recovery efforts with amazing, caring, devoted talented professionals. He made multiple attempts in inpatient and outpatient rehab, recovery and yes, had relapses. It was in these years that he found his people and his recovery community in California being sober living and in a 12 step program. The journey to recovery is not linear, but the support he found allowed him to be sober for nearly a year. He built on that success and secured a new job at a specialty technical software company he was to begin in September. He began to build his east coast recovery community where he wanted to become a sponsor for others struggling with addiction.Jake was brilliant and loved to read and write. He wrote stories regularly from the time he was 8 years old. He regularly tossed out obscure vocabulary words assuming we would know them. When talking to Jake, it was important to remember that Google is your friend. He spent his youth playing and watching sports of every type but his passion was baseball. There were countless hours spent at Little League baseball fields from the age of 5 through high school. Music of every type and genre was his adult passion and he loved to share new artists with others. And, all those Phish shows!A life can’t be captured in an obituary, especially if addiction has been a part of that life. Addiction pulls its victims down while family and friends often detach to save themselves. Know that if you pulled away from him, he understood. We love and cherish each of you. Jake was the youngest of our immediate family; one that we viewed as our greatest life challenge. We took that challenge head on. We had no choice because he was ours; a part of us. We changed our lives because of and in spite of him over and over. In the few short days since his passing, we’ve been inundated with hilarious stories about him, examples of his tenderness, kindness, and his incredible way with words that changed and saved lives.Jake is survived by his parents, Sheila Taggart and Bob Taggart; his brothers, Travis, Pat and Ben; His “Gran,” Jean Goebel; his aunt, Linda Oetting; his Kimball step-brothers Jeff, Zach &amp; Pat; as well as so many beloved Aunts, Uncles and cousins (particularly Sam who held a special place in his heart); The Eichenbergers, Atteberrys, Goebels, Deneaus and the Oettings were just some of the multitude of family that loved and cared deeply for him. His friends are countless and include those that are Taggarts in spirit. He was predeceased by his Grandfather, Larry Goebel, who we feel was waiting for him. Together, they are our guardian angels.A California sunset Celebration of Life is planned for September 6th at 6:30 P.M. at the shoreline of the water at 1 Driftwood Street Marina del Ray, CA 90292.The Indiana Celebration of Life will be held at a future date in Indianapolis, Indiana.Although we are beyond devastated by his loss just when he was moving into his next chapter, we are grateful that we had the opportunity to spend time with the beautiful soul we loved and always knew was still somewhere inside.Everyone who loved and cared for Jake was hoping that he had overcome the worst of his battles. His future was looking bright again. Our hearts are shattered. We feel his loss deeply but we are grateful that he died happy, healthy and ready to take on life.The below was borrowed from a beautifully written obituary.“If you yourself are struggling from addiction, know that every breath is a fresh start. Know that hundreds of thousands of families who have lost someone to this disease are praying and rooting for you. Know that we believe with all our hearts that you can and will make it. It is never too late.”

Jacob Edward Taggart

Ida Mary Smrcka, 93, passed away August 24, 2024 at Diversicare of Larned.

She was born March 28, 1931 in La Crosse, the daughter of Clarence and Anna Irish Morrison.

A lifetime Rush County resident, she was a homemaker. She loved cooking, sewing, gardening, and working alongside her husband on the farm. Her greatest joy was to be a grandma to Katie Ann and a great grandma GG to Brielle.

On October 15, 1955 she married Willard Dean Smrcka at La Crosse; he preceded her in death.

Survivors include: &nbsp;daughter, Vickie Sue (R.J.) Tammen, Timken; granddaughter, Katie Ann (Shawn) Doyle, Timken; great granddaughter, Brielle Maryn Doyle; brother, Victor Morrison, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Robert Allen Smrcka; and her brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday, August 26, 2024 with family present from 6-8 p.m. Burial will be in Bohemian National Cemetery, Timken. Private family service will be at a later date.

Memorials may be given to Bohemian National Cemetery in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724621628269.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ida Mary Smrcka, 93, passed away August 24, 2024 at Diversicare of Larned.She was born March 28, 1931 in La Crosse, the daughter of Clarence and Anna Irish Morrison.A lifetime Rush County resident, she was a homemaker. She loved cooking, sewing, gardening, and working alongside her husband on the farm. Her greatest joy was to be a grandma to Katie Ann and a great grandma GG to Brielle.On October 15, 1955 she married Willard Dean Smrcka at La Crosse; he preceded her in death.Survivors include: &nbsp;daughter, Vickie Sue (R.J.) Tammen, Timken; granddaughter, Katie Ann (Shawn) Doyle, Timken; great granddaughter, Brielle Maryn Doyle; brother, Victor Morrison, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Robert Allen Smrcka; and her brothers and sisters.Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday, August 26, 2024 with family present from 6-8 p.m. Burial will be in Bohemian National Cemetery, Timken. Private family service will be at a later date.Memorials may be given to Bohemian National Cemetery in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Ida Mary Smrcka

Roberta Josephine “Tinker” Jacobs, 89, of Aurora, Colo., passed away on March 28, 2024. She was born July 23, 1934 to Simon and Ida Jacobs, in Hays, one of six children.

A 1952 graduate from Hays High School, Tinker helped blaze a trail for women while becoming a renowned biochemist after earning a B.A. degree at the Fort Hays Kansas State College (now FHSU) in 1956 with a major in biology and minor in zoology.

She spent her career researching immunology possibilities with a focus on finding ways to improve treatments for arthritis and lupus, among other health issues. While working at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation in the 1980s, at least three of her research papers were published in the Journal of Immunological Methods. She retired from her career as a research scientist from the University of Colorado Health Science Center in Denver.

Throughout her career, she continued to teach and learn while earning multiple post-graduate degrees. Beginning at the University of Buffalo with an M. Med in medicine (1962), continuing at the University of Kansas with an M. Arts in biology (1966), and concluding at the State University of New York-Buffalo with a Ph.D. in biochemistry (1980), Tinker was focused on helping others.

When not studying or working, Tinker spent time hiking and cycling, honing her photography skills, and caring for a collection of pets, including her beloved ‘Little Guy’ after retiring in the Denver area. While living in Oklahoma City, Okla., she became a handywoman as she worked through the process of fixing problems and making improvements as a homeowner.

She is survived by her sister, Stephanie Schumacher (Leon) of Hays, four nephews, seven nieces, and 12 great-nephews and great-nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, Simon and Ida (Linenberger) Jacobs, brothers David Jacobs, Leroy Jacobs and Norman Jacobs, sister Verna Lou (Jacobs) LaBan, and two nieces, Robin LaBan White and Stacey Schumacher Badger.

A memorial service has been scheduled for October 26, 2024 in Hays, Kansas. This obituary will be updated with more information as it becomes available.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please consider making a donation to the Aurora (Colo.) Animal Shelter. Donations can be sent by mail or made online. To donate by check payable to the Aurora Animal Shelter, mail it to: 15750 E. 32nd Ave., Aurora, CO 80011. To donate online, go to: https://licensepet.com/wl3/don/aurowd/457. Condolences and memories of Tinker may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724525954920.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Roberta Josephine “Tinker” Jacobs, 89, of Aurora, Colo., passed away on March 28, 2024. She was born July 23, 1934 to Simon and Ida Jacobs, in Hays, one of six children.A 1952 graduate from Hays High School, Tinker helped blaze a trail for women while becoming a renowned biochemist after earning a B.A. degree at the Fort Hays Kansas State College (now FHSU) in 1956 with a major in biology and minor in zoology.She spent her career researching immunology possibilities with a focus on finding ways to improve treatments for arthritis and lupus, among other health issues. While working at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation in the 1980s, at least three of her research papers were published in the Journal of Immunological Methods. She retired from her career as a research scientist from the University of Colorado Health Science Center in Denver.Throughout her career, she continued to teach and learn while earning multiple post-graduate degrees. Beginning at the University of Buffalo with an M. Med in medicine (1962), continuing at the University of Kansas with an M. Arts in biology (1966), and concluding at the State University of New York-Buffalo with a Ph.D. in biochemistry (1980), Tinker was focused on helping others.When not studying or working, Tinker spent time hiking and cycling, honing her photography skills, and caring for a collection of pets, including her beloved ‘Little Guy’ after retiring in the Denver area. While living in Oklahoma City, Okla., she became a handywoman as she worked through the process of fixing problems and making improvements as a homeowner.She is survived by her sister, Stephanie Schumacher (Leon) of Hays, four nephews, seven nieces, and 12 great-nephews and great-nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, Simon and Ida (Linenberger) Jacobs, brothers David Jacobs, Leroy Jacobs and Norman Jacobs, sister Verna Lou (Jacobs) LaBan, and two nieces, Robin LaBan White and Stacey Schumacher Badger.A memorial service has been scheduled for October 26, 2024 in Hays, Kansas. This obituary will be updated with more information as it becomes available.In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please consider making a donation to the Aurora (Colo.) Animal Shelter. Donations can be sent by mail or made online. To donate by check payable to the Aurora Animal Shelter, mail it to: 15750 E. 32nd Ave., Aurora, CO 80011. To donate online, go to: https://licensepet.com/wl3/don/aurowd/457. Condolences and memories of Tinker may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Roberta Josephine “Tinker” Jacobs

Thomas Olson, a loving husband, dad, grandpa and great grandpa passed away on Monday, August 19, 2024 at the age of 91 in Hays, Kansas.

Tom was born on April 1, 1933 to Henry T. Olson and Frances (Smith) Olson at home in rural Dalton, Minnesota. Tom grew up on their farm and was his dad’s constant companion. Tom’s family moved to Fergus Falls when Tom was 13 years old. Tom married the love of his life, Carolyn Buel on August 30, 1958 in McIntosh, South Dakota. They were married almost 66 years and were blessed with five children, Valerie, Jay, Paula, Kristi and Denise.

Tom spent two years in the Army and then worked for Mid America Dairy in Fergus Falls for 43 years. Tom lived in Fergus for most of his life. He and Carolyn raised their family there. Tom enjoyed camping, gardening, mowing the lawn, going to auction sales, and being with his family. He was an avid collector of pocketknives and belt buckles and was fond of cars having built a kit car that he drove in parades.

Tom was a great man who had a tender heart and always had a story to tell. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was a very kind and helpful man. He loved popcorn and candy! His favorite word was “Uffda”, a fun Norwegian expression that now all his children and many grandchildren enjoy using as well. He was an active member of the Nazarene church in Fergus Falls until he and his wife moved to Guernsey, Wyoming in 2015. They lived there until 2024 when they moved to Hays, Kansas.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Carolyn, and their five children, Valerie Mills of Casper, Wyoming, Jay (Nancy) Olson of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Paula (Kurt) Martin of Hays, Kansas, Kristi (Davin) Wirrenga of Jamestown, North Dakota and Denise O’Neil of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. He also leaves 18 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Tom was proceeded in death by his parents; his siblings, Gilma Sporre, Corrine Biksen and Herb Olson; a grandson, Judson Thomas Jarboe and twin grandsons, Otto and Elliott Wirrenga.A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, September 16, 2024 at North Oak Community Church 3000 Oak Street in Hays. A private family inurnment will take place in Dalton, Minnesota.

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

Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724267797980.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas Olson, a loving husband, dad, grandpa and great grandpa passed away on Monday, August 19, 2024 at the age of 91 in Hays, Kansas.Tom was born on April 1, 1933 to Henry T. Olson and Frances (Smith) Olson at home in rural Dalton, Minnesota. Tom grew up on their farm and was his dad’s constant companion. Tom’s family moved to Fergus Falls when Tom was 13 years old. Tom married the love of his life, Carolyn Buel on August 30, 1958 in McIntosh, South Dakota. They were married almost 66 years and were blessed with five children, Valerie, Jay, Paula, Kristi and Denise.Tom spent two years in the Army and then worked for Mid America Dairy in Fergus Falls for 43 years. Tom lived in Fergus for most of his life. He and Carolyn raised their family there. Tom enjoyed camping, gardening, mowing the lawn, going to auction sales, and being with his family. He was an avid collector of pocketknives and belt buckles and was fond of cars having built a kit car that he drove in parades.Tom was a great man who had a tender heart and always had a story to tell. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was a very kind and helpful man. He loved popcorn and candy! His favorite word was “Uffda”, a fun Norwegian expression that now all his children and many grandchildren enjoy using as well. He was an active member of the Nazarene church in Fergus Falls until he and his wife moved to Guernsey, Wyoming in 2015. They lived there until 2024 when they moved to Hays, Kansas.He leaves behind his devoted wife, Carolyn, and their five children, Valerie Mills of Casper, Wyoming, Jay (Nancy) Olson of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, Paula (Kurt) Martin of Hays, Kansas, Kristi (Davin) Wirrenga of Jamestown, North Dakota and Denise O’Neil of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. He also leaves 18 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.Tom was proceeded in death by his parents; his siblings, Gilma Sporre, Corrine Biksen and Herb Olson; a grandson, Judson Thomas Jarboe and twin grandsons, Otto and Elliott Wirrenga.A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, September 16, 2024 at North Oak Community Church 3000 Oak Street in Hays. A private family inurnment will take place in Dalton, Minnesota.Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Tom’s tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.

Thomas Palmer Olson

Magdalena was born on January 17, 1929, to George and Theresia (Lovenstein) Zimmerman. She was the youngest of eight children.

She passed away at the age of 97 years and 7 months at Trego Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney, Kansas.

Magdalena was born south of Grainfield into a German-speaking family on the family farm. She graduated from Grainfield High School in 1947. She took her first airplane ride while in high school.

She worked a number of jobs in Grainfield before meeting the love of her life, George Uhrich, at Zeman Dance Hall in Collyer. They were married on February 20, 1950, in the St. Agnes Catholic Church basement in Grainfield and lived on a farm north of Collyer.

From this union, three daughters were born: Ruan, Mary Ladd, and Karen.

Magdalena was a dedicated housewife who helped with milking the cows, feeding the pigs, harvesting, driving a tractor, butchering, and anything else that needed to be done. She was active in her church, serving as president of the Altar Society in both Collyer and WaKeeney.

When her daughters were all in school, she volunteered as a Gray Lady at the Long-Term Care facility in Quinter. She was also a news contributor, gathering news around Collyer for the Western Kansas World.

After her husband had a heart attack, she took a job at the Coast-to-Coast store in WaKeeney and later at Duckwalls, until the store closed. When they moved to WaKeeney, they started G&amp;M Crafts, making wooden toys and sewing potholders. She continued making potholders and selling them at the Farmers Market in Hays and at her garage sales in WaKeeney.

She often remarked on how she had lived long enough to witness many changes:

Magdalena was born on January 17, 1929, to George and Theresia (Lovenstein) Zimmerman. She was the youngest of eight children.She passed away at the age of 97 years and 7 months at Trego Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney, Kansas.Magdalena was born south of Grainfield into a German-speaking family on the family farm. She graduated from Grainfield High School in 1947. She took her first airplane ride while in high school.She worked a number of jobs in Grainfield before meeting the love of her life, George Uhrich, at Zeman Dance Hall in Collyer. They were married on February 20, 1950, in the St. Agnes Catholic Church basement in Grainfield and lived on a farm north of Collyer.From this union, three daughters were born: Ruan, Mary Ladd, and Karen.Magdalena was a dedicated housewife who helped with milking the cows, feeding the pigs, harvesting, driving a tractor, butchering, and anything else that needed to be done. She was active in her church, serving as president of the Altar Society in both Collyer and WaKeeney.When her daughters were all in school, she volunteered as a Gray Lady at the Long-Term Care facility in Quinter. She was also a news contributor, gathering news around Collyer for the Western Kansas World.After her husband had a heart attack, she took a job at the Coast-to-Coast store in WaKeeney and later at Duckwalls, until the store closed. When they moved to WaKeeney, they started G&amp;M Crafts, making wooden toys and sewing potholders. She continued making potholders and selling them at the Farmers Market in Hays and at her garage sales in WaKeeney.She often remarked on how she had lived long enough to witness many changes:<ul>
 <li>From her parents emigrating to the United States by ship to the moon landing.</li><li>From a horse-drawn carriage to a 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass.</li><li>From a crank telephone to a rotary phone, and then to cell phones that take pictures.</li><li>From a wringer washing machine to electric washers and dryers.</li><li>From an outhouse to indoor plumbing.</li><li>From rationing during WWII to online shopping 24/7.</li><li>From thrashing machines drawn by horses to 30-foot header combines.</li><li>From gathering wood chips for heating the house to gas furnaces.</li>
 </ul>Magdalena loved ice cream so much that she would eat a gallon of it every two weeks.In her younger days, Magdalena and George enjoyed square dancing. After moving to WaKeeney, Magdalena line danced from 1976 until she was 91 years old.While working at Wagon Ho in Quinter, she wore the dress she made for the Grainfield Centennial, cooked meals over an open fire in the middle of the prairie, spent the night in the pickup truck, and cooked breakfast the next morning. She was paid $3 per hour.Magdalena and George spent seven years at the Kansas State Fair, entering exhibits in the Domestic Art Building. Their travels included working one season at Yellowstone and driving to Alaska, Florida, Arizona, Indiana, Nevada, South Dakota, Washington, Oregon, and Texas.She enjoyed family reunions, picnics, dancing, sewing, reading, assembling puzzles, and gardening.Preceding her in death are her parents; her husband, George; and siblings, Margaret Deges, Jacob Zimmerman, Frances Zerr, Joseph Zimmerman, Victoria Zerr, and Anna Mary Heier.Surviving to mourn her passing are her three daughters, Ruan (Wes) Windholz, Mary Ladd (Larry) Dague, and Karen (Reg) Flagler; her sister, Joan Engel; grandchildren, Terri (Doug) Rule, Tiffany (Bill) Weber, Chad (Tracy) Dague, Michael (Jessica Davis), Justin, Amanda, Ryan, and Paul Flagler, Raisa (Clint) Little, Carson Windholz, Stephanie (Dustin) Foster, and Stephen Windholz; 19 great-grandchildren, with one on the way; five great-great-grandchildren, with one on the way; and 65 nieces and nephews.A visitation will be held at Schmitt Funeral Home, located at 336 N 12th St, WaKeeney, KS, on Friday, August 23, 2024, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a vigil service beginning at 6:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Christ the King Catholic Church, located at 412 N 9th St, WaKeeney, KS, on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., with interment immediately following at St. Michael Catholic Cemetery in Collyer, KS.Memorial donations can be made to the Dominican Sisters of Peace or to Masses at Christ the King Catholic Church. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home at 336 N 12th St, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

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