Mary Anne McMurry, 89, passed away from this earth on July 27, 2022,&nbsp; at the Grisell Memorial Hospital in Ransom, Kansas. Mary Anne was born 
October 10, 1932, to Clyde and Martha (Jaehde) Willour. She was named 
after her mother's twin sister Mary and her mother's other sister Ann.

She had an eye for beautiful things and she worked for many years as 
an interior decorator. She was an accomplished seamstress and it should 
be noted that during her college years she was the fastest typist in the
 state of Kansas! She was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta. On July 25, 
1951 she married the handsome Dr. Charles Stewart McMurry, Jr. The 
McMurry family was known in that area during that era because of Dr C.S.
 McMurry, Sr. who according to Mary Anne delivered upwards of 2,500 
babies. Sadly, on April 1, 1961, Mary Anne's young husband died. She was 
bereft, a widow with three young children. Mary Anne chose to channel 
her grief into a willingness to move forward and be positive and because
 of her faith in Jesus Christ, the love &amp; support of friends and 
family and her own resilience she endorsed the idea that a good attitude
 in spite of sorrow was the way to live. In 1965 Mary Anne established 
the New Haven Methodist Daycare in Tulsa and it is still in operation 
today. As a single Mother she raised her three children lovingly during 
the tumultuous 1960s-1970s and did her best to steer a safe course for 
her children. She lived for 50 years in Tulsa, Oklahoma, before returning
 home to Ransom in 2006. It is worthy of thought that Mary Anne's first 
and final chapters of life took place in Ransom, Kansas. She enjoyed 
reconnecting with her hometown community and living closer to her 
younger brother Randy and his wife Kathy.

She was known affectionately as "Mimi" by her grandchildren, 
great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Among her many fine 
qualities she was a wonderful cook and talented gardener. Mimi always 
put her heart into the things she enjoyed and she was a family historian
 who made many detailed scrapbooks outlining what she had observed and 
learned. She was a wealth of information.&nbsp; Additionally, Mary Anne's 
family and friends all enjoyed her handwritten letters, she wrote 
beautifully from the heart with lovely handwriting. In later years her 
eyesight didn't allow for continued correspondence or letter writing and
 her family saw that a joyful part of life was gone, Mary Anne; however,
 never complained and instead redoubled her efforts to petition the Lord
 in prayer for her family and friends. She was indeed a prayer warrior: a
 happy warrior at that! &nbsp;She had a distinct and beautiful singing voice 
and a large vocabulary, enjoyed reading books and was never timid about 
sharing her opinion or viewpoint but did so with dignity and grace. From
 time to time she would get a smile on her face and let you know she had
 a "Bee in her bonnet" about some project she wanted to pursue. Mimi is 
remembered for a habit of "humming" and it was always a cheerful tune.

Our loving and lovely Mimi &amp; Mary Anne has gone on to be with her
 savior whom she so loved and while we will miss her and her many 
wonderful qualities we are assured of her salvation and look forward to 
seeing her again. "Au Revoir" translated as "We'll see you again" is 
fitting for her departure.

Special thanks to: Jolene Gable, A.J. Willour, Grisell Memorial Hospital staff and the community of Ransom.

Survivors include 2 sons, Charles Stewart McMurry III (Carol) of 
Guymon, OK, Brent McMurry (Marcy) of Tulsa, OK; daughter, Michelle Marie
 McMurry (Kelly) of Guymon, OK; brother, Randy Willour (Kathy) of 
Ransom, KS; 12 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren. She was 
preceded in death by her parents; husband, Charles Stewart McMurry, Jr; 
brother, Byron "Jim" Willour and grandson, Patrick Kelly McMurry. &nbsp;

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be on August 27, 2022, at Praise Fellowship Church.&nbsp;

Memorial Contributions may be given to Praise Fellowship Church.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659709955640.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mary Anne McMurry, 89, passed away from this earth on July 27, 2022,&nbsp; at the Grisell Memorial Hospital in Ransom, Kansas. Mary Anne was born 
October 10, 1932, to Clyde and Martha (Jaehde) Willour. She was named 
after her mother's twin sister Mary and her mother's other sister Ann.She had an eye for beautiful things and she worked for many years as 
an interior decorator. She was an accomplished seamstress and it should 
be noted that during her college years she was the fastest typist in the
 state of Kansas! She was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta. On July 25, 
1951 she married the handsome Dr. Charles Stewart McMurry, Jr. The 
McMurry family was known in that area during that era because of Dr C.S.
 McMurry, Sr. who according to Mary Anne delivered upwards of 2,500 
babies. Sadly, on April 1, 1961, Mary Anne's young husband died. She was 
bereft, a widow with three young children. Mary Anne chose to channel 
her grief into a willingness to move forward and be positive and because
 of her faith in Jesus Christ, the love &amp; support of friends and 
family and her own resilience she endorsed the idea that a good attitude
 in spite of sorrow was the way to live. In 1965 Mary Anne established 
the New Haven Methodist Daycare in Tulsa and it is still in operation 
today. As a single Mother she raised her three children lovingly during 
the tumultuous 1960s-1970s and did her best to steer a safe course for 
her children. She lived for 50 years in Tulsa, Oklahoma, before returning
 home to Ransom in 2006. It is worthy of thought that Mary Anne's first 
and final chapters of life took place in Ransom, Kansas. She enjoyed 
reconnecting with her hometown community and living closer to her 
younger brother Randy and his wife Kathy.She was known affectionately as "Mimi" by her grandchildren, 
great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Among her many fine 
qualities she was a wonderful cook and talented gardener. Mimi always 
put her heart into the things she enjoyed and she was a family historian
 who made many detailed scrapbooks outlining what she had observed and 
learned. She was a wealth of information.&nbsp; Additionally, Mary Anne's 
family and friends all enjoyed her handwritten letters, she wrote 
beautifully from the heart with lovely handwriting. In later years her 
eyesight didn't allow for continued correspondence or letter writing and
 her family saw that a joyful part of life was gone, Mary Anne; however,
 never complained and instead redoubled her efforts to petition the Lord
 in prayer for her family and friends. She was indeed a prayer warrior: a
 happy warrior at that! &nbsp;She had a distinct and beautiful singing voice 
and a large vocabulary, enjoyed reading books and was never timid about 
sharing her opinion or viewpoint but did so with dignity and grace. From
 time to time she would get a smile on her face and let you know she had
 a "Bee in her bonnet" about some project she wanted to pursue. Mimi is 
remembered for a habit of "humming" and it was always a cheerful tune.Our loving and lovely Mimi &amp; Mary Anne has gone on to be with her
 savior whom she so loved and while we will miss her and her many 
wonderful qualities we are assured of her salvation and look forward to 
seeing her again. "Au Revoir" translated as "We'll see you again" is 
fitting for her departure.Special thanks to: Jolene Gable, A.J. Willour, Grisell Memorial Hospital staff and the community of Ransom.Survivors include 2 sons, Charles Stewart McMurry III (Carol) of 
Guymon, OK, Brent McMurry (Marcy) of Tulsa, OK; daughter, Michelle Marie
 McMurry (Kelly) of Guymon, OK; brother, Randy Willour (Kathy) of 
Ransom, KS; 12 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren. She was 
preceded in death by her parents; husband, Charles Stewart McMurry, Jr; 
brother, Byron "Jim" Willour and grandson, Patrick Kelly McMurry. &nbsp;Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be on August 27, 2022, at Praise Fellowship Church.&nbsp;Memorial Contributions may be given to Praise Fellowship Church.

Mary Anne McMurry

Robert “Bob” Eugene Stephens, 77, of Sioux City, Iowa, formerly of 
Kansas, passed away surrounded by his family on July 30, 2022, at a 
local hospital.&nbsp;

Bob was born on July 29, 1945, in Hays, Kansas, to Fay Elvin and 
Vernita (Seltmann) Stephens.&nbsp; After graduating from high school, he 
received his bachelor’s degree in Business.&nbsp; He joined the United States
 Army where he served for 23 years before retiring.&nbsp; He served several 
tours in Germany and Italy. After his service, he worked for The 
Department of Energy at Savannah River Site in Ellenton, South Carolina,
 as a safety trainer.&nbsp; He was united in marriage to Kay Lynn Stanberry 
on July 3, 1965.&nbsp; To this union they were blessed with 5 children.&nbsp; Bob 
later married Marilyn Barner on March 7, 1998, in Aiken, South 
Carolina.&nbsp; He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing basketball and watching 
KU basketball.&nbsp; He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ-Church of 
Latter-Day Saints.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Marilyn Stephens, 
Sioux City, Iowa; children, Heather (Dan) Chambless, Gilbert, South 
Carolina, April (Steven) Fanning, Harlem, Georgia, Hillery (Gregory) 
Still, Blackville, South Carolina; step-children, Troy (Tina) Strid, 
Corsica, South Dakota, Jenny (Brett Austin) Barner, Sioux City, Iowa, 
Gina (Jason Hanson) Barner, West Des Moines, Iowa, Jana (Robb) Nash, 
Sioux City, Iowa; and grandchildren, Taylor Chambless, Jacob Chambless, 
Gracen Chambless, Caleb Chambless, Griffin Fanning, Owen Fanning, Kaylee
 Fanning, McKay Fanning, Logan Hutto and Reagan Still.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Terry; and his sons, Robert Neal Stephens and Grant Austin Stephens.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, August 2, 2022,&nbsp;from 2:00 P.M to 
4:00 P.M. at Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel, Sioux City, Iowa.&nbsp; 
Online condolences may be made to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.meyerbroschapels.com/">www.meyerbroschapels.com</a>

Visitation will be Friday, August 5, 2022, from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 P.M. at the Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.

Graveside service will be Friday, August 5, 2022, at 3:00 P.M. at the
 Alexander Cemetery, Alexander, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial with military honors 
will be in the Alexander Cemetery, Alexander, Kansas.

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659709855050.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Robert “Bob” Eugene Stephens, 77, of Sioux City, Iowa, formerly of 
Kansas, passed away surrounded by his family on July 30, 2022, at a 
local hospital.&nbsp;Bob was born on July 29, 1945, in Hays, Kansas, to Fay Elvin and 
Vernita (Seltmann) Stephens.&nbsp; After graduating from high school, he 
received his bachelor’s degree in Business.&nbsp; He joined the United States
 Army where he served for 23 years before retiring.&nbsp; He served several 
tours in Germany and Italy. After his service, he worked for The 
Department of Energy at Savannah River Site in Ellenton, South Carolina,
 as a safety trainer.&nbsp; He was united in marriage to Kay Lynn Stanberry 
on July 3, 1965.&nbsp; To this union they were blessed with 5 children.&nbsp; Bob 
later married Marilyn Barner on March 7, 1998, in Aiken, South 
Carolina.&nbsp; He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing basketball and watching 
KU basketball.&nbsp; He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ-Church of 
Latter-Day Saints.Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Marilyn Stephens, 
Sioux City, Iowa; children, Heather (Dan) Chambless, Gilbert, South 
Carolina, April (Steven) Fanning, Harlem, Georgia, Hillery (Gregory) 
Still, Blackville, South Carolina; step-children, Troy (Tina) Strid, 
Corsica, South Dakota, Jenny (Brett Austin) Barner, Sioux City, Iowa, 
Gina (Jason Hanson) Barner, West Des Moines, Iowa, Jana (Robb) Nash, 
Sioux City, Iowa; and grandchildren, Taylor Chambless, Jacob Chambless, 
Gracen Chambless, Caleb Chambless, Griffin Fanning, Owen Fanning, Kaylee
 Fanning, McKay Fanning, Logan Hutto and Reagan Still.He is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Terry; and his sons, Robert Neal Stephens and Grant Austin Stephens.Visitation will be held Tuesday, August 2, 2022,&nbsp;from 2:00 P.M to 
4:00 P.M. at Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel, Sioux City, Iowa.&nbsp; 
Online condolences may be made to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.meyerbroschapels.com/">www.meyerbroschapels.com</a>Visitation will be Friday, August 5, 2022, from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 P.M. at the Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.Graveside service will be Friday, August 5, 2022, at 3:00 P.M. at the
 Alexander Cemetery, Alexander, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial with military honors 
will be in the Alexander Cemetery, Alexander, Kansas.Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.Kansas arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

Robert 'Bob' Eugene Stephens

Tony William New, 67, passed away on August 1, 2022, at the 
University of Kansas Medical Systems – Kansas City. He was born on March
 16, 1955 to George and Bettie (Riden) New in McLeansboro, Ill. On April
 7, 1984, he married Debra Stoss in Olmitz, Kan. She survives.

A long-time area resident, Tony was a self-employed superintendent 
and tool pusher in the oilfield, as well as an owner of That New Place 
in Olmitz. Tony was a member of the Olmitz Volunteer Fire Department. He
 had a strong passion for work, loved his dog, Bud, and cherished 
spending time with his family, especially his grandkids.

Survivors include his wife, Debbie, of the home; two sons, Jim 
(Kelsey) and Jason (Maddie) New, all of Olmitz; and three grandsons, 
Jaxson, Mitchell and Maxwell. He is preceded in death by his parents; a 
grandmother, Hazel New; and a brother, Steven.

Visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, 
August 4, 2022, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, with the family 
receiving friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral service will take 
place at 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 5, 2022, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral 
Home with Pastor Don Fisher presiding. Interment will follow at Saint 
Anns Cemetery in Olmitz. 

Memorials have been designated to the Olmitz 
Volunteer Fire Department or Kans for Kids, in care of Nicholson-Ricke 
Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS, 67544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659709759385.png" alt="8156051_fbs.png" />
 <figcaption>8156051_fbs.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Tony William New, 67, passed away on August 1, 2022, at the 
University of Kansas Medical Systems – Kansas City. He was born on March
 16, 1955 to George and Bettie (Riden) New in McLeansboro, Ill. On April
 7, 1984, he married Debra Stoss in Olmitz, Kan. She survives.A long-time area resident, Tony was a self-employed superintendent 
and tool pusher in the oilfield, as well as an owner of That New Place 
in Olmitz. Tony was a member of the Olmitz Volunteer Fire Department. He
 had a strong passion for work, loved his dog, Bud, and cherished 
spending time with his family, especially his grandkids.Survivors include his wife, Debbie, of the home; two sons, Jim 
(Kelsey) and Jason (Maddie) New, all of Olmitz; and three grandsons, 
Jaxson, Mitchell and Maxwell. He is preceded in death by his parents; a 
grandmother, Hazel New; and a brother, Steven.Visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, 
August 4, 2022, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, with the family 
receiving friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral service will take 
place at 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 5, 2022, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral 
Home with Pastor Don Fisher presiding. Interment will follow at Saint 
Anns Cemetery in Olmitz. Memorials have been designated to the Olmitz 
Volunteer Fire Department or Kans for Kids, in care of Nicholson-Ricke 
Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS, 67544.

Tony William New

Orville Lewis Monroe, 87, passed away August 3, 2022, at Country 
Place Senior Living in Hoisington. He was born October 24, 1934, in 
Geneseo to John &amp; Amanda (Brandon) Monroe. He married Betty Jean 
Moulton and they later divorced. He then married Jacquelyn “Jackie” 
(Brack) Eulert on April 14, 1976, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

A longtime area resident, Orville started his career in the oilfield 
with Raymond Oil right out of high school. He then went on as the 
production supervisor for Clinton Oil, K&amp;E Drilling, Energy Reserve 
and the Sterling Oil Company. &nbsp;Orville then left the corporate world and
 started his own oil production business, Big O, LLC. He was a member of
 the men's coffee group and a former member of the American Legion Post 
#180. Orville served in the United States Army during the Korean 
Conflict, obtaining the rank of Sergeant.

Survivors include, his wife Jackie of the home; his children, Janelle
 “Jenny” (Monroe) Hejny and husband Daniel of McCamey, Tex., Eileen 
(Monroe) Wilkinson and husband Bobby of Denison, Tex.,&nbsp; Melissa (Eulert)
 Dickson and husband Tim of Ellinwood, John Eulert of San Diego, Calif. 
and Bret Eulert (Connie Weber) of Great Bend; eight grandchildren, 
Rachael Dickson, Jeremy Hejny (Shannon), J.D. Hejny (Whitney), Jessica 
Brooks (Ron), Christen Cory, Amanda Robbins (Rocky), Josh Cory and Tony 
Hammond; seventeen great grandchildren; and two great great 
grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, 
Raymond Monroe, John Monroe, Jr., Francis Monroe and Bruce Monroe; and 
four sisters, Garnet Hicks, Mary Cormeny, Irene Droegemeier and 
Marguerite Cormeny.

Visitation will be held from Noon to 8:00 p.m., Monday, August 8, 
2022 at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 7:00 to
 8:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 
9, 2022, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Chaplain Jeffrey Owen presiding. 
Interment will be in Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood with 
Military Rites conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. 

In lieu of 
flowers, memorials have been designated to Kindred Hospice or Golden 
Belt Humane Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659709706221.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Orville Lewis Monroe, 87, passed away August 3, 2022, at Country 
Place Senior Living in Hoisington. He was born October 24, 1934, in 
Geneseo to John &amp; Amanda (Brandon) Monroe. He married Betty Jean 
Moulton and they later divorced. He then married Jacquelyn “Jackie” 
(Brack) Eulert on April 14, 1976, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.A longtime area resident, Orville started his career in the oilfield 
with Raymond Oil right out of high school. He then went on as the 
production supervisor for Clinton Oil, K&amp;E Drilling, Energy Reserve 
and the Sterling Oil Company. &nbsp;Orville then left the corporate world and
 started his own oil production business, Big O, LLC. He was a member of
 the men's coffee group and a former member of the American Legion Post 
#180. Orville served in the United States Army during the Korean 
Conflict, obtaining the rank of Sergeant.Survivors include, his wife Jackie of the home; his children, Janelle
 “Jenny” (Monroe) Hejny and husband Daniel of McCamey, Tex., Eileen 
(Monroe) Wilkinson and husband Bobby of Denison, Tex.,&nbsp; Melissa (Eulert)
 Dickson and husband Tim of Ellinwood, John Eulert of San Diego, Calif. 
and Bret Eulert (Connie Weber) of Great Bend; eight grandchildren, 
Rachael Dickson, Jeremy Hejny (Shannon), J.D. Hejny (Whitney), Jessica 
Brooks (Ron), Christen Cory, Amanda Robbins (Rocky), Josh Cory and Tony 
Hammond; seventeen great grandchildren; and two great great 
grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, 
Raymond Monroe, John Monroe, Jr., Francis Monroe and Bruce Monroe; and 
four sisters, Garnet Hicks, Mary Cormeny, Irene Droegemeier and 
Marguerite Cormeny.Visitation will be held from Noon to 8:00 p.m., Monday, August 8, 
2022 at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 7:00 to
 8:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 
9, 2022, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Chaplain Jeffrey Owen presiding. 
Interment will be in Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood with 
Military Rites conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. In lieu of 
flowers, memorials have been designated to Kindred Hospice or Golden 
Belt Humane Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Orville Lewis Monroe

Former Phillips County resident Becky Rae Stuckman passed away 
Sunday, July 31, 2022, at the Parkview Care Center in Osborne, KS at the 
age of 77.

She was born March 30, 1945, at the St. Anthony’s Hospital in Hays, KS
 the daughter of Ted and Helen (Ernst) Stuckman of Kirwin, KS.&nbsp; She 
attended grade school and graduated from Kirwin High School with the 
class of 1963.&nbsp; Following high school she attended Brown Mackie School 
of Business in Salina, KS, graduating in February 1964.

Becky accepted a job at the Beloit Hospital in Beloit, KS in their 
medical records department where she worked for a number of years.&nbsp; She 
then decided to answer an ad in a professional magazine for a Medical 
Record Department Head in Cedar Vale, KS.&nbsp; While there she was wiped out
 twice in tornadoes.&nbsp; She had always been terrified in storms, as Mother
 was, but surprisingly she stayed in Cedar Vale until she retired in 
2016 and moved to West View Apartments in Phillipsburg, KS.

Becky enjoyed playing games, especially Gin Rummy when she was 
younger.&nbsp; She also enjoyed spending time in the kitchen.&nbsp; As a child she
 enjoyed making “Special” meals; such as, grape tapioca pudding for her 
family from a cook book for kids she received as a gift.&nbsp; Her mother 
strongly encouraged her, in all her cooking endeavors. She did become an
 excellent cook over the years.&nbsp; She assisted in the kitchen at the West
 View Apartments while she was there.&nbsp; Becky had many dogs over the 
years.&nbsp; She loved preparing special meals for them as well.&nbsp; Not one 
ever had hair on their bellies because they were so chubby it rubbed off
 on the carpet.

Becky was active in the Westview community.&nbsp; She assisted in the 
Westview kitchen, preparing and serving many meals over the years to not
 only residents, but the community. &nbsp;

She was preceded in death by her parents; a niece Keri Bremenkamp; 
cousin Mary Lou Ernst; and many aunts; uncles; other cousins; and her 
many dogs over the years.

She leaves to mourn her passing a sister Patricia Bremenkamp of 
Salina, KS; two nephews Gregory and Matthew Bremenkamp, both of 
Davenport, IA; four great nephews Noah, Logan, Mason, and Liam; along 
with a great niece Maddie; cousins Bob Ernst of Estes Park, CO, Jim 
Ernst of San Antonio, TX, Mark Merrill, Kathy Boroff, Kristi Dubbs all 
of Grand Island NE, and Cheri Sperling of Corpus Christi, TX.

Becky also leaves many friends and many memories for us to remember her by.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 4, 2022,&nbsp; in the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, with Pastor Jay 
Brandon officiating.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Olliff-Boeve-Memorial-Chapel-158648587502325/">Services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page.</a>&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Kirwin Cemetery, Kirwin, KS.

Friends may sign the book from noon until 9:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lynn Vice Companion Animal Continued Care Fund c/o the funeral chapel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659709610595.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Former Phillips County resident Becky Rae Stuckman passed away 
Sunday, July 31, 2022, at the Parkview Care Center in Osborne, KS at the 
age of 77.She was born March 30, 1945, at the St. Anthony’s Hospital in Hays, KS
 the daughter of Ted and Helen (Ernst) Stuckman of Kirwin, KS.&nbsp; She 
attended grade school and graduated from Kirwin High School with the 
class of 1963.&nbsp; Following high school she attended Brown Mackie School 
of Business in Salina, KS, graduating in February 1964.Becky accepted a job at the Beloit Hospital in Beloit, KS in their 
medical records department where she worked for a number of years.&nbsp; She 
then decided to answer an ad in a professional magazine for a Medical 
Record Department Head in Cedar Vale, KS.&nbsp; While there she was wiped out
 twice in tornadoes.&nbsp; She had always been terrified in storms, as Mother
 was, but surprisingly she stayed in Cedar Vale until she retired in 
2016 and moved to West View Apartments in Phillipsburg, KS.Becky enjoyed playing games, especially Gin Rummy when she was 
younger.&nbsp; She also enjoyed spending time in the kitchen.&nbsp; As a child she
 enjoyed making “Special” meals; such as, grape tapioca pudding for her 
family from a cook book for kids she received as a gift.&nbsp; Her mother 
strongly encouraged her, in all her cooking endeavors. She did become an
 excellent cook over the years.&nbsp; She assisted in the kitchen at the West
 View Apartments while she was there.&nbsp; Becky had many dogs over the 
years.&nbsp; She loved preparing special meals for them as well.&nbsp; Not one 
ever had hair on their bellies because they were so chubby it rubbed off
 on the carpet.Becky was active in the Westview community.&nbsp; She assisted in the 
Westview kitchen, preparing and serving many meals over the years to not
 only residents, but the community. &nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents; a niece Keri Bremenkamp; 
cousin Mary Lou Ernst; and many aunts; uncles; other cousins; and her 
many dogs over the years.She leaves to mourn her passing a sister Patricia Bremenkamp of 
Salina, KS; two nephews Gregory and Matthew Bremenkamp, both of 
Davenport, IA; four great nephews Noah, Logan, Mason, and Liam; along 
with a great niece Maddie; cousins Bob Ernst of Estes Park, CO, Jim 
Ernst of San Antonio, TX, Mark Merrill, Kathy Boroff, Kristi Dubbs all 
of Grand Island NE, and Cheri Sperling of Corpus Christi, TX.Becky also leaves many friends and many memories for us to remember her by.Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 4, 2022,&nbsp; in the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, with Pastor Jay 
Brandon officiating.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Olliff-Boeve-Memorial-Chapel-158648587502325/">Services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page.</a>&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Kirwin Cemetery, Kirwin, KS.Friends may sign the book from noon until 9:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral chapel.Memorial contributions may be made to the Lynn Vice Companion Animal Continued Care Fund c/o the funeral chapel.

Becky Rae Stuckman

Esther Ann (Whaling) Lamm was born the daughter of Henry &amp; Mary 
(Porter) Whaling on February 18, 1928, on the family farm south of 
Osborne, KS.
 She was united in marriage to Dean Lamm on July 21, 1957. Dean 
&amp; Esther were blessed with a daughter Jane Deanna, born on August 9,
 1959. Jane passed away on June 23, 1984.
 Dean &amp; Esther made their home in Alton, KS and then moved to Osborne, KS in 2000.
 After Dean passed away on March 20, 2019, Esther moved into Parkview
 Care Center in Osborne, and then moved to Solomon Valley manor in 
Stockton, KS to be closer to her family. Esther was preceded in death by her parents, husband and daughter. 
She is survived by her nephews; nieces; and a sister-in-law Judy Lamm.&nbsp;

Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Esther-Ann-Lamm?obId=25528552#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659709526414.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Esther Ann (Whaling) Lamm was born the daughter of Henry &amp; Mary 
(Porter) Whaling on February 18, 1928, on the family farm south of 
Osborne, KS.
 She was united in marriage to Dean Lamm on July 21, 1957. Dean 
&amp; Esther were blessed with a daughter Jane Deanna, born on August 9,
 1959. Jane passed away on June 23, 1984.
 Dean &amp; Esther made their home in Alton, KS and then moved to Osborne, KS in 2000.
 After Dean passed away on March 20, 2019, Esther moved into Parkview
 Care Center in Osborne, and then moved to Solomon Valley manor in 
Stockton, KS to be closer to her family. Esther was preceded in death by her parents, husband and daughter. 
She is survived by her nephews; nieces; and a sister-in-law Judy Lamm.&nbsp;Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Esther-Ann-Lamm?obId=25528552#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Esther Ann (Whaling) Lamm

Fidel Guerra Juarez Sr., 74, died Tuesday, Aug. 
2, 2022, at Ascension Via Christi-St. Francis in Wichita. He 
was born March 23, 1948, in Navecilla Municipio de Villocampo, DGO, 
Mexico, the son of Simon Guerra Villa and Maria de el Refujio Guerra. 
Fidel grew up in Mexico and moved to the United States in 1970. He 
married Janice L. Bustamante in 1980 in Ulysses. Fidel worked as a 
derrick hand in the oil fields for many years. He loved hunting deer 
and fishing. Many times he would share his love of fishing with anyone 
that would go with him. He will be remembered as being kind, making the
 best red chili in town, sharing what he had, and helping others. He 
treasured his grandkids and the time he got to spend with them. Fidel 
attended Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Ulysses. 
Fidel is survived by his son, Fidel Guerra Jr. of Ulysses; daughter, 
Dilia Girón of Ulysses; brother, Rodrigo Guerra of Cd Juarez, Mexico; 
sister, Martina Guerra of Cd Juarez, Mexico; three grandchildren, Anna 
Molina, Italia Guadalupe Girón, and Yaretzi Milagros Girón; and many 
nieces and nephews. 
Fidel was preceded in death by his parents, Simon and Maria; wife, 
Janice in 2020; and siblings, Pedro Guerra, Eulalia Guerra, Setomino 
Guerra, Maria de el Refujio Guerra, Juana Guerra, Luis Guerra, Avelina 
Guerra, and Valeriano Guerra. 
Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, and Funeral Mass will 
be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022, both at Mary, Queen of Peace 
Catholic Church in Ulysses, with Reverend Charles Seiwert 
officiating. Interment will follow at Ulysses Cemetery.

Friends may call
from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, at Garnand Funeral 
Home in Ulysses.

Memorial contributions may be given to Fidel Guerra 
Juarez Sr. Memorial Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant
 Ave., Ulysses, KS  67880.

Condolences may be posted at 
<a href="http://www.garnandfuneralhomes.com">www.garnandfuneralhomes.com</a>.<a> </a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659647980436.png" alt="Fidel Guerra Juarez" />
 <figcaption>Fidel Guerra Juarez</figcaption>
 </figure>
 Fidel Guerra Juarez Sr., 74, died Tuesday, Aug. 
2, 2022, at Ascension Via Christi-St. Francis in Wichita. He 
was born March 23, 1948, in Navecilla Municipio de Villocampo, DGO, 
Mexico, the son of Simon Guerra Villa and Maria de el Refujio Guerra. 
Fidel grew up in Mexico and moved to the United States in 1970. He 
married Janice L. Bustamante in 1980 in Ulysses. Fidel worked as a 
derrick hand in the oil fields for many years. He loved hunting deer 
and fishing. Many times he would share his love of fishing with anyone 
that would go with him. He will be remembered as being kind, making the
 best red chili in town, sharing what he had, and helping others. He 
treasured his grandkids and the time he got to spend with them. Fidel 
attended Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Ulysses. 
Fidel is survived by his son, Fidel Guerra Jr. of Ulysses; daughter, 
Dilia Girón of Ulysses; brother, Rodrigo Guerra of Cd Juarez, Mexico; 
sister, Martina Guerra of Cd Juarez, Mexico; three grandchildren, Anna 
Molina, Italia Guadalupe Girón, and Yaretzi Milagros Girón; and many 
nieces and nephews. 
Fidel was preceded in death by his parents, Simon and Maria; wife, 
Janice in 2020; and siblings, Pedro Guerra, Eulalia Guerra, Setomino 
Guerra, Maria de el Refujio Guerra, Juana Guerra, Luis Guerra, Avelina 
Guerra, and Valeriano Guerra. 
Rosary will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, and Funeral Mass will 
be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022, both at Mary, Queen of Peace 
Catholic Church in Ulysses, with Reverend Charles Seiwert 
officiating. Interment will follow at Ulysses Cemetery.Friends may call
from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, at Garnand Funeral 
Home in Ulysses.Memorial contributions may be given to Fidel Guerra 
Juarez Sr. Memorial Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant
 Ave., Ulysses, KS 67880.Condolences may be posted at 
<a href="http://www.garnandfuneralhomes.com">www.garnandfuneralhomes.com</a>.<a> </a>

Fidel Guerra Juarez

There will an informal celebration of life and reception at 2 p.m.
Saturday, August 6 at the Sharon Springs United Methodist Church 520 W. Sixth St. Sharon Springs, KS 67758.

Donations can be made to Ebbot Brooks College Fund and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735

Arrangements are being handled by <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/">Koons-Russell Funeral Home</a>.

<h2>Oxby Brooks </h2>April 9, 2018 ~ August 1, 2022 (age 4)There will an informal celebration of life and reception at 2 p.m.
Saturday, August 6 at the Sharon Springs United Methodist Church 520 W. Sixth St. Sharon Springs, KS 67758.Donations can be made to Ebbot Brooks College Fund and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735Arrangements are being handled by <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/">Koons-Russell Funeral Home</a>.Photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Oxby Brooks

Esther Ann (Whaling) Lamm was born the daughter of Henry and Mary (Porter) Whaling on Feb. 18, 1928, on the family farm south of Osborne.

She was united in marriage to Dean Lamm on July 25, 1957. Dean and Esther were blessed with a daughter Jane Deanna, born on Aug. 9, 1959. Jane passed away on June 23, 1984.

Dean and Esther made their home in Alton and then moved to Osborne in 2000.

After Dean passed away on March 20, 2019, Esther moved into Parkview Care Center in Osborne, and then moved to Solomon Valley manor in Stockton to be closer to her family.

Esther was preceded in death by her parents, husband and daughter. She is survived by her nephews; nieces; and a sister-in-law Judy Lamm.

Esther Ann (Whaling) Lamm was born the daughter of Henry and Mary (Porter) Whaling on Feb. 18, 1928, on the family farm south of Osborne. She was united in marriage to Dean Lamm on July 25, 1957. Dean and Esther were blessed with a daughter Jane Deanna, born on Aug. 9, 1959. Jane passed away on June 23, 1984.Dean and Esther made their home in Alton and then moved to Osborne in 2000.After Dean passed away on March 20, 2019, Esther moved into Parkview Care Center in Osborne, and then moved to Solomon Valley manor in Stockton to be closer to her family.Esther was preceded in death by her parents, husband and daughter. She is survived by her nephews; nieces; and a sister-in-law Judy Lamm.

Amil J. Ablah was born in Wichita to Nellie and Frank Ablah, May 12, 1934. He died on July 30, 2022, at 88 years of age. Amil graduated from Wichita East High School in 1952. He attended the University of Kansas and Wichita State University and made many lasting friendships along the way. In 1961, through mutual friends, Amil met a dental hygienist, Carol Robinson. They married in 1962 and were fortunate to spend the next 60 years together. They had two children, Andrew and Elizabeth. Amil adored his children and did anything he could to be a part of their lives – including driving to Minnesota in a blizzard to attend a father-daughter banquet. Early in his career, he served in the Air Force Reserve and then joined the family business, the Ablah Hotel Supply, where he worked until 1986. After earning his real estate license, he joined his brother, Don, and two nephews at Classic Real Estate. Before long, his love of food service led him to join a physicist, Brian Clothier, to form TSI, and invent warming devices for food delivery. He retired in 2016. Amil is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Lucille (Milton) Barkett; and brother, George (Virginia) Ablah. Amil is survived by his wife, Carol; his children, Andrew (Story) Ablah and Elizabeth Ablah; his brother, Don (Faith) Ablah; his grandchildren, Stella and Oscar; a beloved grand dog; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. A celebration of life will occur at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2022, at College Hill United Methodist Church in Wichita. The family would like everyone to be safe and requests you wear a mask. The celebration of life will be live-streamed through the church’s website. Lunch will follow the service. A graveside service and burial will occur at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, at the Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Hill City, handled by Stinemetz Funeral Home of Hill City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lord’s Diner or Meals on Wheels.

Services in care of Downing &amp; Lahey East Mortuary. Share tributes online at <a href="http://www.dlwichita.com">www.dlwichita.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659646815203.jpeg" alt="Amil J. Ablah" />
 <figcaption>Amil J. Ablah</figcaption>
 </figure>Amil J. Ablah was born in Wichita to Nellie and Frank Ablah, May 12, 1934. He died on July 30, 2022, at 88 years of age. Amil graduated from Wichita East High School in 1952. He attended the University of Kansas and Wichita State University and made many lasting friendships along the way. In 1961, through mutual friends, Amil met a dental hygienist, Carol Robinson. They married in 1962 and were fortunate to spend the next 60 years together. They had two children, Andrew and Elizabeth. Amil adored his children and did anything he could to be a part of their lives – including driving to Minnesota in a blizzard to attend a father-daughter banquet. Early in his career, he served in the Air Force Reserve and then joined the family business, the Ablah Hotel Supply, where he worked until 1986. After earning his real estate license, he joined his brother, Don, and two nephews at Classic Real Estate. Before long, his love of food service led him to join a physicist, Brian Clothier, to form TSI, and invent warming devices for food delivery. He retired in 2016. Amil is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Lucille (Milton) Barkett; and brother, George (Virginia) Ablah. Amil is survived by his wife, Carol; his children, Andrew (Story) Ablah and Elizabeth Ablah; his brother, Don (Faith) Ablah; his grandchildren, Stella and Oscar; a beloved grand dog; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. A celebration of life will occur at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2022, at College Hill United Methodist Church in Wichita. The family would like everyone to be safe and requests you wear a mask. The celebration of life will be live-streamed through the church’s website. Lunch will follow the service. A graveside service and burial will occur at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, at the Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Hill City, handled by Stinemetz Funeral Home of Hill City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lord’s Diner or Meals on Wheels. Services in care of Downing &amp; Lahey East Mortuary. Share tributes online at <a href="http://www.dlwichita.com">www.dlwichita.com</a>

Amil J. Ablah

Berniece Catherine (Kinderknecht) Heier, age 90, passed away on July 
31, 2022 at her Grainfield, Kansas home.&nbsp; She was born Feb. 23, 1932
 in Menlo to Joseph and Philomena (Hertel) Kinderknecht.&nbsp; She&nbsp; 
married Alfred Heier on Aug. 5, 1952 and unto this union seven children 
were born. Most of her life was spent on the farm raising their 
children and being a supportive farmer’s wife. Alfred and 
Berniece were active members of the Kansas chapter “Po.L.K. of A” and 
traveled to many dances throughout the area.&nbsp; Their Polka influence 
carried through their family as they taught their children and 
grandchildren the dances and played Polka at every gathering. They were
 also lifelong members of the local American Legion and VFW. Once 
Alfred passed, Berniece moved to Grainfield and carried on these 
traditions with her friends and family through volunteering at the 
American Legion “Stag and Stagette” dinners and attending American 
Legion Ladies Auxiliary meetings and events. Berniece further 
contributed to the community through her service to the church via the 
Altar Society and the St. Agnes Ladies. Berniece was a woman of strong 
Catholic faith and showed that to the very end of her life. Even 
shortly after her passing, one of her great-granddaughters commented on 
how much “Grandma really loved Jesus.” Her faith shaped and enriched 
her life, and she led by example with her devotion. Her 
contributions to the community were noticed through her involvement and 
further supported via her hobby of quilt making as she donated some of 
her handiwork to various fundraisers. She enjoyed constructing 
different quilt designs through various patterns of quilt blocks, 
material, and embroidery, and she shared her passion with family and 
friends by revealing her latest finished design and teaching others the 
art of quilt making. In addition to the family memories of her quilt 
making hobby, many remember her homemade bierocks as a family favorite 
as well as her delicious Christmas time rosettes, German potato salad, 
barbecue meatballs, coconut cream pie, and cinnamon bread.&nbsp; Berniece’s 
influence along with her cooking and sewing skills created many 
memories. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and 
Philomena Kinderknecht, her loving husband, Alfred, one son, Alan, two 
infant daughters: Kay Ann and Catherine Marie, her grandson, Brandon 
Heier.&nbsp; Also preceding were her brother, Emanuel (Marilyn) Kinderknecht,
 and sisters:&nbsp; Angeline (Robert) Kaiser, Alberta (John) Wolf, Olinda 
(Douglas) Zeigler, and Caroline Kaiser. She will be greatly 
missed by her surviving children and families including her four sons: David, Ron (Patti), Mel (Catherine), and Larry (Marilyn), her sister 
Dorothy (Don) Schroeder, her brother-in-law Frank Kaiser, 11 
grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and many others. Services 
are to be at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Grinnell.&nbsp; Visitation: &nbsp;Friday, August 5, 2022 from 5 to 8 p.m., with Rosary/vigil at 8 p.m.&nbsp; Funeral Mass on Saturday, Aug. 6 at 10 
a.m. with Fr. James Thomas officiating. Burial to follow at the Church 
Cemetery with Honor Guard by the Wheatland VFW Auxiliary #2864. Memorials
 may be made to the Immaculate Conception Church in Grinnell or St. 
Agnes Catholic Church in Grainfield, or for masses and may be sent in 
care of Kennedy-Koster Funeral Home, P.O. Box 221, Oakley, KS&nbsp; 67748. Sign the online guestbook at <a href="http://www.kennedykosterfh.com">www.kennedykosterfh.com</a>

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Berniece Catherine Heier, please <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kennedykosterfh.com/obituary/berniece-heier/gifts?campaign=obituaryInline-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Berniece Catherine Heier, Grainfield</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659618575859.jpeg" alt="Berniece Catherine Heier" />
 <figcaption>Berniece Catherine Heier</figcaption>
 </figure>Berniece Catherine (Kinderknecht) Heier, age 90, passed away on July 
31, 2022 at her Grainfield, Kansas home.&nbsp; She was born Feb. 23, 1932
 in Menlo to Joseph and Philomena (Hertel) Kinderknecht.&nbsp; She&nbsp; 
married Alfred Heier on Aug. 5, 1952 and unto this union seven children 
were born. Most of her life was spent on the farm raising their 
children and being a supportive farmer’s wife. Alfred and 
Berniece were active members of the Kansas chapter “Po.L.K. of A” and 
traveled to many dances throughout the area.&nbsp; Their Polka influence 
carried through their family as they taught their children and 
grandchildren the dances and played Polka at every gathering. They were
 also lifelong members of the local American Legion and VFW. Once 
Alfred passed, Berniece moved to Grainfield and carried on these 
traditions with her friends and family through volunteering at the 
American Legion “Stag and Stagette” dinners and attending American 
Legion Ladies Auxiliary meetings and events. Berniece further 
contributed to the community through her service to the church via the 
Altar Society and the St. Agnes Ladies. Berniece was a woman of strong 
Catholic faith and showed that to the very end of her life. Even 
shortly after her passing, one of her great-granddaughters commented on 
how much “Grandma really loved Jesus.” Her faith shaped and enriched 
her life, and she led by example with her devotion. Her 
contributions to the community were noticed through her involvement and 
further supported via her hobby of quilt making as she donated some of 
her handiwork to various fundraisers. She enjoyed constructing 
different quilt designs through various patterns of quilt blocks, 
material, and embroidery, and she shared her passion with family and 
friends by revealing her latest finished design and teaching others the 
art of quilt making. In addition to the family memories of her quilt 
making hobby, many remember her homemade bierocks as a family favorite 
as well as her delicious Christmas time rosettes, German potato salad, 
barbecue meatballs, coconut cream pie, and cinnamon bread.&nbsp; Berniece’s 
influence along with her cooking and sewing skills created many 
memories. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and 
Philomena Kinderknecht, her loving husband, Alfred, one son, Alan, two 
infant daughters: Kay Ann and Catherine Marie, her grandson, Brandon 
Heier.&nbsp; Also preceding were her brother, Emanuel (Marilyn) Kinderknecht,
 and sisters:&nbsp; Angeline (Robert) Kaiser, Alberta (John) Wolf, Olinda 
(Douglas) Zeigler, and Caroline Kaiser. She will be greatly 
missed by her surviving children and families including her four sons: David, Ron (Patti), Mel (Catherine), and Larry (Marilyn), her sister 
Dorothy (Don) Schroeder, her brother-in-law Frank Kaiser, 11 
grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and many others. Services 
are to be at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Grinnell.&nbsp; Visitation: &nbsp;Friday, August 5, 2022 from 5 to 8 p.m., with Rosary/vigil at 8 p.m.&nbsp; Funeral Mass on Saturday, Aug. 6 at 10 
a.m. with Fr. James Thomas officiating. Burial to follow at the Church 
Cemetery with Honor Guard by the Wheatland VFW Auxiliary #2864. Memorials
 may be made to the Immaculate Conception Church in Grinnell or St. 
Agnes Catholic Church in Grainfield, or for masses and may be sent in 
care of Kennedy-Koster Funeral Home, P.O. Box 221, Oakley, KS&nbsp; 67748. Sign the online guestbook at <a href="http://www.kennedykosterfh.com">www.kennedykosterfh.com</a>
 
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Berniece Catherine Heier, please <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kennedykosterfh.com/obituary/berniece-heier/gifts?campaign=obituaryInline-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Berniece C. Heier

Mildred Merle Lohr was born on April 3, 1925, in Kanorado to Louis F. Lohr and Tillie G. (Luken) Lohr. 

She grew up on the family farm and went to school in Kanorado until transferring to Sherman County High School where she completed her senior year and graduated with the class of 1944. 

She was one of five children and enjoyed farm life with her older sister Maxine (Winfrey), two brothers, Kenneth and Melvin, and younger sister, Evelyn (Davis).

Together they survived the dust storms of the “dirty thirties," as well as the trials and joys of farming in western Kansas. Mildred had fond memories of life in Kanorado and the many good friends she had there. &nbsp;

Moving to Goodland expanded her circle of friends, and introduced her to a handsome upper classman, Joe Gutsch, who become the love of her life as her husband and life partner.

 Joe joined the Army and was stationed in California. Wanting to get married before he was shipped overseas, Mildred boarded the train in Goodland and traveled west where they were married on Jan. 20, 1945, in Paso Robles, Calif. After Joe’s military service ended, they moved to Goodland and began farming with his father, Joseph P. Gutsch, on some of the land originally homesteaded by relative J.L. Gandy, early settler, and landowner in Sherman County.

 Mildred and Joe began their farm life and raised their family on some of the same land once owned by Gandy, and now farmed by their children north of Goodland. They were blessed with three sons, Steve, Larry and Jim, and one daughter, Carol.

Farming became the center of their lives with the expansion of their operation, to include irrigation and then livestock, which eventually lead to the formation of J &amp; J Feeders, which is today Sherman County Feedyard.

Mildred was an active participant on the farm, helping Joe during harvest and keeping things running behind the scenes with the home, yard, children, community activities and church.  She continued to live on the farm even after Joe’s untimely death in 1977. 

Mildred was an active member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Goodland. She was the only continuous member of Emmanuel who was baptized as an infant in the original white framed church and was later confirmed on May 12, 1940. She was a member of the Rebecca Circle and served the church in many capacities throughout her life.

Mildred was a community member through her membership in many organizations. She served on the Goodland Regional Medical Center Foundation Board. She proudly served in the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post #1133. Mid was a member of Thetis Women’s Federated Club, and “U &amp; I” Extension Homemakers Unit. &nbsp;As a co-owner of Collage Ltd. she enjoyed being involved in the business aspects of the Goodland community. &nbsp;

Mildred’s biggest pride and joy was always her family, and she leaves to mourn, her sons, Steve Gutsch of Lakewood, Colo., Larry (Linda) Gutsch of Goodland, James (Karen) Gutsch of Olathe, and daughter Carol (Robin) Deeds, of Edson.

She was the loving grandmother to Steven (Jessie) Gutsch Jr. of Highlands Ranch, Colo., Chasiti (Shawn) Gerstenkorn of Huntley, Ill., Lance (Annie) Gutsch of Denver, &nbsp;Lara Gutsch Firman of Denver, Leah (Mike) Lehrburger of Corona Del Mar, Calif., Sarah (David) Fuchs of Springfield, Mo., Julie (Brandon) Yates of Olathe, Dexter (Jessica) Deeds of Leawood, Dr. Aaron (Macy) Deeds of Salina, and Nathan (Shayley) Deeds of Goodland.

She was so proud of her 17 precious great-grandchildren, including Ethan and Madeline Gutsch, Sidney and Sadie Gerstenkorn, Gatsby and Georgia Gutsch, Ella Firman, Ryan, Kaitlin, Alex and Jackson Fuchs, Carson, Averie, Vera and Silas Yates, and Henry and Natalie Deeds.

Mid had a special evening ritual where every night before she went to sleep, she would recite the first and middle names of all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She leaves a rich legacy of &nbsp;love, trust, compassion, strength, kindness, wit and humor, and perseverance to her family who will treasure the times they got to spend with her. She will be dearly missed by all.  She also leaves her sweet sister, Evelyn Davis of Burlington, Colo., and sister-in-law Louise Gutsch Panas of North Carolina, as well as a host of dear nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, family, friends, and her community of faith family at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Goodland. 

Preceding Mildred in death were her parents, Louis and Tillie Lohr, her husband, Joe Gutsch, his parents, Joseph P. Gutsch and Dorothy D. Gutsch, her brothers and sisters-in-law; Kenneth (Joyce) Lohr, Melvin (Patricia) Lohr, her older sister and brother-in-law Maxine (Irvin) Winfrey, sisters-in-law Catherine Brown, Nellie (Guy) Wallace, and brother-in-law George Panas. 

 Family meant everything to Mildred and she cherished every visit, phone call, letter and gift she ever received from each one. Her family dinners were legendary, and her homemade pies were blue ribbon special treats. She always put her family first and she would do anything for every one of them. Mid enjoyed time with her many friends, and for years the ladies would gather for coffee at Evans Café, Ray’s Café or Hank’s.  She was a lifelong resident of Sherman County and one of the most well-known, well-loved community supporters. Thanks to the love and assistance of her family and friends, she was able to live her life out in her own home in Goodland, a goal and source of pride for her. 

&nbsp;Mildred passed away peacefully on Aug. 2, 2022, at the Goodland Regional Medical Center. &nbsp;

 Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 7 at Koons- Russell Funeral Home . 

Celebration of life service will be at 10 a.m. (MT) Monday, Aug. 8 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Goodland with Pastor Don McMillan officiating.  Burial will follow the Goodland Cemetery.

Memorials may be designated to the Emmanuel Lutheran Church and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

Online condolences to the family may be left at www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com.

Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659562123269.jpeg" alt="Mildred M. Gutsch" />
 <figcaption>Mildred M. Gutsch</figcaption>
 </figure>Mildred Merle Lohr was born on April 3, 1925, in Kanorado to Louis F. Lohr and Tillie G. (Luken) Lohr. She grew up on the family farm and went to school in Kanorado until transferring to Sherman County High School where she completed her senior year and graduated with the class of 1944. She was one of five children and enjoyed farm life with her older sister Maxine (Winfrey), two brothers, Kenneth and Melvin, and younger sister, Evelyn (Davis).Together they survived the dust storms of the “dirty thirties," as well as the trials and joys of farming in western Kansas. Mildred had fond memories of life in Kanorado and the many good friends she had there. &nbsp;Moving to Goodland expanded her circle of friends, and introduced her to a handsome upper classman, Joe Gutsch, who become the love of her life as her husband and life partner. Joe joined the Army and was stationed in California. Wanting to get married before he was shipped overseas, Mildred boarded the train in Goodland and traveled west where they were married on Jan. 20, 1945, in Paso Robles, Calif. After Joe’s military service ended, they moved to Goodland and began farming with his father, Joseph P. Gutsch, on some of the land originally homesteaded by relative J.L. Gandy, early settler, and landowner in Sherman County. Mildred and Joe began their farm life and raised their family on some of the same land once owned by Gandy, and now farmed by their children north of Goodland. They were blessed with three sons, Steve, Larry and Jim, and one daughter, Carol.Farming became the center of their lives with the expansion of their operation, to include irrigation and then livestock, which eventually lead to the formation of J &amp; J Feeders, which is today Sherman County Feedyard.Mildred was an active participant on the farm, helping Joe during harvest and keeping things running behind the scenes with the home, yard, children, community activities and church. She continued to live on the farm even after Joe’s untimely death in 1977. Mildred was an active member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Goodland. She was the only continuous member of Emmanuel who was baptized as an infant in the original white framed church and was later confirmed on May 12, 1940. She was a member of the Rebecca Circle and served the church in many capacities throughout her life.Mildred was a community member through her membership in many organizations. She served on the Goodland Regional Medical Center Foundation Board. She proudly served in the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post #1133. Mid was a member of Thetis Women’s Federated Club, and “U &amp; I” Extension Homemakers Unit. &nbsp;As a co-owner of Collage Ltd. she enjoyed being involved in the business aspects of the Goodland community. &nbsp;Mildred’s biggest pride and joy was always her family, and she leaves to mourn, her sons, Steve Gutsch of Lakewood, Colo., Larry (Linda) Gutsch of Goodland, James (Karen) Gutsch of Olathe, and daughter Carol (Robin) Deeds, of Edson.She was the loving grandmother to Steven (Jessie) Gutsch Jr. of Highlands Ranch, Colo., Chasiti (Shawn) Gerstenkorn of Huntley, Ill., Lance (Annie) Gutsch of Denver, &nbsp;Lara Gutsch Firman of Denver, Leah (Mike) Lehrburger of Corona Del Mar, Calif., Sarah (David) Fuchs of Springfield, Mo., Julie (Brandon) Yates of Olathe, Dexter (Jessica) Deeds of Leawood, Dr. Aaron (Macy) Deeds of Salina, and Nathan (Shayley) Deeds of Goodland.She was so proud of her 17 precious great-grandchildren, including Ethan and Madeline Gutsch, Sidney and Sadie Gerstenkorn, Gatsby and Georgia Gutsch, Ella Firman, Ryan, Kaitlin, Alex and Jackson Fuchs, Carson, Averie, Vera and Silas Yates, and Henry and Natalie Deeds.Mid had a special evening ritual where every night before she went to sleep, she would recite the first and middle names of all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.She leaves a rich legacy of &nbsp;love, trust, compassion, strength, kindness, wit and humor, and perseverance to her family who will treasure the times they got to spend with her. She will be dearly missed by all.  She also leaves her sweet sister, Evelyn Davis of Burlington, Colo., and sister-in-law Louise Gutsch Panas of North Carolina, as well as a host of dear nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, family, friends, and her community of faith family at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Goodland. Preceding Mildred in death were her parents, Louis and Tillie Lohr, her husband, Joe Gutsch, his parents, Joseph P. Gutsch and Dorothy D. Gutsch, her brothers and sisters-in-law; Kenneth (Joyce) Lohr, Melvin (Patricia) Lohr, her older sister and brother-in-law Maxine (Irvin) Winfrey, sisters-in-law Catherine Brown, Nellie (Guy) Wallace, and brother-in-law George Panas.  Family meant everything to Mildred and she cherished every visit, phone call, letter and gift she ever received from each one. Her family dinners were legendary, and her homemade pies were blue ribbon special treats. She always put her family first and she would do anything for every one of them. Mid enjoyed time with her many friends, and for years the ladies would gather for coffee at Evans Café, Ray’s Café or Hank’s. She was a lifelong resident of Sherman County and one of the most well-known, well-loved community supporters. Thanks to the love and assistance of her family and friends, she was able to live her life out in her own home in Goodland, a goal and source of pride for her. &nbsp;Mildred passed away peacefully on Aug. 2, 2022, at the Goodland Regional Medical Center. &nbsp; Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 7 at Koons- Russell Funeral Home . Celebration of life service will be at 10 a.m. (MT) Monday, Aug. 8 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Goodland with Pastor Don McMillan officiating. Burial will follow the Goodland Cemetery.Memorials may be designated to the Emmanuel Lutheran Church and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.Online condolences to the family may be left at www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com.Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.&nbsp;

Mildred M. Gutsch

Joyce Ann Misiag, 72, Aiken, South Carolina, died Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022, at Select Specialty Hospital in Augusta, Ga.

Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659623430180.jpeg" alt="Joyce Ann Misiag" />
 <figcaption>Joyce Ann Misiag</figcaption>
 </figure>Joyce Ann Misiag, 72, Aiken, South Carolina, died Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022, at Select Specialty Hospital in Augusta, Ga.Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home</a>.

Joyce Ann Misiag

James Patrick Page passed away on July 31, 2022, at his home in Lucas. He was born in Hays, the second son of Dr. Vale Page and Patricia Page on Nov. 5, 1954. Jim graduated from Plainville High School in 1973 where he excelled in football, track and basketball. He earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary of the Plains College in Dodge City, then entered the investment and insurance business.

He was an avid fisherman and spent his spare time taking family and friends on outings to Wilson Lake. He loved sports of all kinds and was always ready to argue about politics. He loved family get-togethers but was especially devoted to his two daughters and his grandkids. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jeff.

He is survived by daughter Katie Barnes (Branden) and children Brevyn, Kasen and Sadie of Wichita and daughter Hannah Page (Whitney) of Overland Park. Also left to mourn are his former spouse Susan Gibson Page of Pratt, brothers Mike (Sheri) of Plainville, Dan (Holly) of Lawrence and sisters Mary Bond (Steve) of Wichita, Susan Kerns (Dave) of Sawyer, Melanie Calcara (Mark) of Great Bend and Missy Rempe (Mike) of Pratt as well as a host of nephews, nieces and friends.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659622417146.jpeg" alt="James Patrick Page" />
 <figcaption>James Patrick Page</figcaption>
 </figure>James Patrick Page passed away on July 31, 2022, at his home in Lucas. He was born in Hays, the second son of Dr. Vale Page and Patricia Page on Nov. 5, 1954. Jim graduated from Plainville High School in 1973 where he excelled in football, track and basketball. He earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary of the Plains College in Dodge City, then entered the investment and insurance business.He was an avid fisherman and spent his spare time taking family and friends on outings to Wilson Lake. He loved sports of all kinds and was always ready to argue about politics. He loved family get-togethers but was especially devoted to his two daughters and his grandkids. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jeff.He is survived by daughter Katie Barnes (Branden) and children Brevyn, Kasen and Sadie of Wichita and daughter Hannah Page (Whitney) of Overland Park. Also left to mourn are his former spouse Susan Gibson Page of Pratt, brothers Mike (Sheri) of Plainville, Dan (Holly) of Lawrence and sisters Mary Bond (Steve) of Wichita, Susan Kerns (Dave) of Sawyer, Melanie Calcara (Mark) of Great Bend and Missy Rempe (Mike) of Pratt as well as a host of nephews, nieces and friends.

James Patrick Page

Saturday, June 4th, 1938-Monday, August 1st, 2022

Arrangements are pending with <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com">Baalmann Mortuary</a>.

Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

<h2>Kay Suzane McCarthy</h2>Saturday, June 4th, 1938-Monday, August 1st, 2022Arrangements are pending with <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com">Baalmann Mortuary</a>. Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Kay Suzane McCarthy

Melvin Leonard Phillips died July 15, 2022. Melvin was born on Dec. 24, 1941, in San Diego, Calif., to Leonard William Phillips and Lois 
Katherine Withers.

Melvin was the oldest of 22 siblings. When he was in 
his sophomore year in high school his father left his mother. He was 
then the man of the house and he left school and went to work to help 
support the family. 

Later when he turned 18, Melvin joined the U.S. Army 
and gained his GED. That was in the year of 1960.

Melvin saw a young 
lady who lived across the street from him in Blackfoot Idaho and her 
name was Afton Marie Smith and he said that she was going to be his 
wife. They were married on March 23, 1961. 

Melvin traveled a great deal 
while in the service. Melvin and Afton welcomed their first child in 
Fort Hood, Texas, who was born Barry Keith Phillips. Then Melvin was sent
 to Germany and in Fulda, Germany, came their second child Dennis Adam 
Phillips.

Melvin was then sent to Washington to place his small but 
growing family at Fort Lewis and along came their next child Christine 
Phillips. It was here that Melvin went to Vietnam — four tours in total in 
Vietnam. 

The family then moved to Fort Ord where Melvin was assigned as a
 drill instructor. During this time another Phillips member arrived 
Jason Melvin. Then the family moved again to Bamberg, Germany, where 
Hollyanne was born. Then they returned to the states and was stationed 
in Ft. Riley and the birth of their sixth child Jared Asael joined
 the Phillips clan.

Then in 1980 Melvin retired from the U.S. Army and the
 family moved to Porterville, Calif., and was blessed with their last
 child Andrew David Phillips. It was as this point that the family grew,
 and several moved out to make their way in the world and Melvin gained 
and education at the local college in carpentry and contractor licenses.

He moved not long after that to Lindsey, Calif., to continue in 
carpentry work. However, it was difficult to live in California at this 
time they moved to Moreland, Idaho. It was at this time that Melvin and 
Afton separated and divorced in 1992. 
Melvin found work everywhere and began repairing many areas in the 
Blackfoot township and he met Glenda Rae Scott Kraeger. They lived 
together for 23 years, and Melvin built many areas of the community that
 he lived. He helped Glenda put additions to her home and then helped to
 work her 5-acre Ranch. 
Melvin enjoyed carpentry above all else, fishing, camping, late night 
lightening strike shows, traveling and time with his family. His 
children were always important to him, and he made sure to always call 
on their birthdays, send a card or just give a kind word of 
encouragement. Melvin was a wonderful father, friend, mentor and 
patriot. He will be missed but loved by all.

Melvin was the oldest of 22 brothers and sisters. His mother remarried 
after Leonard left and married Mike Plumisto. He lost five of his brothers,
 sisters, and parents. George (Joyce) Phillips, Glenn (Ida) Phillips, 
Debbie (Anthony) Blackhart, Chuck (Tammy) Plumisto, and Sheryl Woodward,
 Leonard Phillips, Lois Withers Phillips Plumisto, and one grandson 
Welles Welch and one granddaughter Caroline Fynck.

His living brothers 
and sisters are Marsha (Bill) Long of Cedaredge, Colo., Marvus (Florence) 
Phillips of San Francisco, Calif., Lenita Schofield of Carson City, Nev., 
Terry (Darline) Phillips of Dallas, Dwayne (Rebecca) Plumisto of 
Colby, Mikel (Louann) Plumisto of Colby, Dale Plumisto of Colby, Cathy (Ross) Carney of Colby, Mickey Miller of Colby, Kelly
 Marker of Colby, Lois (Kurtis) Armstrong of Goodland, Charlene 
Plumisto of Jennings, Roy Plumisto Golden, Colo., Gene Plumisto of 
Brighton, Colo., David Plumisto, of Fort Lupton, Colo., Lynette Plumisto of 
Colby.

His grandchildren will miss him too. Michael White of 
California, Joseph Guy Phillips of Idaho, Aaron (Adrianna) Phillips of 
California, Shawn Phillips of Texas, and Shane Phillips of California, 
Callie Camacho of California, Eric Phillips of Colorado, David Phillips 
of Idaho, Rebecca Phillips of Wyoming, Brent Phillips of Idaho, Craig 
Phillips of South Dakota, Alan Phillips of Kansas, Amber Fynck of Idaho,
 Crystal Barrientos of Idaho, Brandon (Alex) Phillips of Wyoming, Joseph
 Phillips of Wyoming, Benjamin Phillips of Wyoming, Jacqueline Phillips 
of Wyoming, Jazmine Phillips of Wyoming, Forrest Welch of New Hampshire,
 Hunter Welch of New Hampshire, and Archer Wilson of New Hampshire.

He 
was also blessed to have 22 great-grandchildren Emily Alise Phillips, 
Gracey Fayth Phillips, Serenity Breanne Phillips, Layla Leanne Phillips,
 Nakita Phillips, Damian Phillips, Jaydain Cole Phillips, Connor Fynck, 
Charlotte Fynck, Carson Fynck, Cayden Fynck, Emmett Barrientos, and 
Dallas Barrientos and Zachary Barrientos. Also, hundreds of nieces and 
nephews all over the United States who all knew the leader of this large
 village. 
A graveside service will be at the grave of Melvin Leonard Phillips
 in the Blackfoot veteran’s cemetery in Blackfoot Idaho. There will also
 be a graveside service and 21-gun salute at the Beulah Cemetery by the 
Phillips, Plumisto site in Colby. A dedicated sight to a man who 
worked the land and now he will be laid in the land that he loved to 
work on. 
Our appreciation goes to Hawker Funeral Home for there help during a 
really difficult time. Also, we would like to thank Baalmann Mortuary,in Colby for making Melvin’s final wish come to pass. Dedication
 of the grave will be done in both locations.

Melvin Leonard Phillips died July 15, 2022. Melvin was born on Dec. 24, 1941, in San Diego, Calif., to Leonard William Phillips and Lois 
Katherine Withers.Melvin was the oldest of 22 siblings. When he was in 
his sophomore year in high school his father left his mother. He was 
then the man of the house and he left school and went to work to help 
support the family. Later when he turned 18, Melvin joined the U.S. Army 
and gained his GED. That was in the year of 1960.Melvin saw a young 
lady who lived across the street from him in Blackfoot Idaho and her 
name was Afton Marie Smith and he said that she was going to be his 
wife. They were married on March 23, 1961. Melvin traveled a great deal 
while in the service. Melvin and Afton welcomed their first child in 
Fort Hood, Texas, who was born Barry Keith Phillips. Then Melvin was sent
 to Germany and in Fulda, Germany, came their second child Dennis Adam 
Phillips.Melvin was then sent to Washington to place his small but 
growing family at Fort Lewis and along came their next child Christine 
Phillips. It was here that Melvin went to Vietnam — four tours in total in 
Vietnam. The family then moved to Fort Ord where Melvin was assigned as a
 drill instructor. During this time another Phillips member arrived 
Jason Melvin. Then the family moved again to Bamberg, Germany, where 
Hollyanne was born. Then they returned to the states and was stationed 
in Ft. Riley and the birth of their sixth child Jared Asael joined
 the Phillips clan.Then in 1980 Melvin retired from the U.S. Army and the
 family moved to Porterville, Calif., and was blessed with their last
 child Andrew David Phillips. It was as this point that the family grew,
 and several moved out to make their way in the world and Melvin gained 
and education at the local college in carpentry and contractor licenses.He moved not long after that to Lindsey, Calif., to continue in 
carpentry work. However, it was difficult to live in California at this 
time they moved to Moreland, Idaho. It was at this time that Melvin and 
Afton separated and divorced in 1992. 
Melvin found work everywhere and began repairing many areas in the 
Blackfoot township and he met Glenda Rae Scott Kraeger. They lived 
together for 23 years, and Melvin built many areas of the community that
 he lived. He helped Glenda put additions to her home and then helped to
 work her 5-acre Ranch. 
Melvin enjoyed carpentry above all else, fishing, camping, late night 
lightening strike shows, traveling and time with his family. His 
children were always important to him, and he made sure to always call 
on their birthdays, send a card or just give a kind word of 
encouragement. Melvin was a wonderful father, friend, mentor and 
patriot. He will be missed but loved by all.Melvin was the oldest of 22 brothers and sisters. His mother remarried 
after Leonard left and married Mike Plumisto. He lost five of his brothers,
 sisters, and parents. George (Joyce) Phillips, Glenn (Ida) Phillips, 
Debbie (Anthony) Blackhart, Chuck (Tammy) Plumisto, and Sheryl Woodward,
 Leonard Phillips, Lois Withers Phillips Plumisto, and one grandson 
Welles Welch and one granddaughter Caroline Fynck.His living brothers 
and sisters are Marsha (Bill) Long of Cedaredge, Colo., Marvus (Florence) 
Phillips of San Francisco, Calif., Lenita Schofield of Carson City, Nev., 
Terry (Darline) Phillips of Dallas, Dwayne (Rebecca) Plumisto of 
Colby, Mikel (Louann) Plumisto of Colby, Dale Plumisto of Colby, Cathy (Ross) Carney of Colby, Mickey Miller of Colby, Kelly
 Marker of Colby, Lois (Kurtis) Armstrong of Goodland, Charlene 
Plumisto of Jennings, Roy Plumisto Golden, Colo., Gene Plumisto of 
Brighton, Colo., David Plumisto, of Fort Lupton, Colo., Lynette Plumisto of 
Colby.His grandchildren will miss him too. Michael White of 
California, Joseph Guy Phillips of Idaho, Aaron (Adrianna) Phillips of 
California, Shawn Phillips of Texas, and Shane Phillips of California, 
Callie Camacho of California, Eric Phillips of Colorado, David Phillips 
of Idaho, Rebecca Phillips of Wyoming, Brent Phillips of Idaho, Craig 
Phillips of South Dakota, Alan Phillips of Kansas, Amber Fynck of Idaho,
 Crystal Barrientos of Idaho, Brandon (Alex) Phillips of Wyoming, Joseph
 Phillips of Wyoming, Benjamin Phillips of Wyoming, Jacqueline Phillips 
of Wyoming, Jazmine Phillips of Wyoming, Forrest Welch of New Hampshire,
 Hunter Welch of New Hampshire, and Archer Wilson of New Hampshire.He 
was also blessed to have 22 great-grandchildren Emily Alise Phillips, 
Gracey Fayth Phillips, Serenity Breanne Phillips, Layla Leanne Phillips,
 Nakita Phillips, Damian Phillips, Jaydain Cole Phillips, Connor Fynck, 
Charlotte Fynck, Carson Fynck, Cayden Fynck, Emmett Barrientos, and 
Dallas Barrientos and Zachary Barrientos. Also, hundreds of nieces and 
nephews all over the United States who all knew the leader of this large
 village. 
A graveside service will be at the grave of Melvin Leonard Phillips
 in the Blackfoot veteran’s cemetery in Blackfoot Idaho. There will also
 be a graveside service and 21-gun salute at the Beulah Cemetery by the 
Phillips, Plumisto site in Colby. A dedicated sight to a man who 
worked the land and now he will be laid in the land that he loved to 
work on. 
Our appreciation goes to Hawker Funeral Home for there help during a 
really difficult time. Also, we would like to thank Baalmann Mortuary,in Colby for making Melvin’s final wish come to pass. Dedication
 of the grave will be done in both locations.
 Cover courtesy of Pixabay.

Melvin Leonard Phillips

Marie Carmella Rall, 66, of Russell, Kansas, died on Thursday, July 28, 2022, at her home in Russell, Kansas.

Marie was born on December 10, 1955, in Bayshore Long Island, New York. The family moved to Russell, Kansas for several years before Marie moved back to New York when she was 13 years old. In 1971, she moved with her father to Tucson, Arizona where she graduated from high school. 

She was united in marriage to Chuck Rall and from this union they were blessed with a daughter Megan. Later the marriage ended in divorce but continued to have a close relationship in raising their daughter. 

She worked as a medical transcriptionist working with doctor’s offices and hospitals. She attended and was to become a member of the First Congregational Church in Russell. She was a member of the Russell T.O.P.S. and church bible study. She enjoyed reading novels, watching television, listening to music, loved animals playing and spending time and taking care of children and her nieces and nephews.

Marie is survived by her daughter Megan Schwab and husband Kevin of Mesa, Arizona; brothers Gary Mauro and Salvatore John Mauro, Jr., both of Russell, Kansas; sister Cathy Pasek and husband David of Russell, Kansas. 

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A memorial service to celebrate Marie’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 06, 2022, at the First Congregational Church in Russell, Kansas. 

A memorial has been established to the Marie Rall Memorial Funeral Fund to help with funeral services. 

Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659541341999.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Marie Carmella Rall, 66, of Russell, Kansas, died on Thursday, July 28, 2022, at her home in Russell, Kansas.Marie was born on December 10, 1955, in Bayshore Long Island, New York. The family moved to Russell, Kansas for several years before Marie moved back to New York when she was 13 years old. In 1971, she moved with her father to Tucson, Arizona where she graduated from high school. She was united in marriage to Chuck Rall and from this union they were blessed with a daughter Megan. Later the marriage ended in divorce but continued to have a close relationship in raising their daughter. She worked as a medical transcriptionist working with doctor’s offices and hospitals. She attended and was to become a member of the First Congregational Church in Russell. She was a member of the Russell T.O.P.S. and church bible study. She enjoyed reading novels, watching television, listening to music, loved animals playing and spending time and taking care of children and her nieces and nephews.Marie is survived by her daughter Megan Schwab and husband Kevin of Mesa, Arizona; brothers Gary Mauro and Salvatore John Mauro, Jr., both of Russell, Kansas; sister Cathy Pasek and husband David of Russell, Kansas. She was preceded in death by her parents.A memorial service to celebrate Marie’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 06, 2022, at the First Congregational Church in Russell, Kansas. A memorial has been established to the Marie Rall Memorial Funeral Fund to help with funeral services. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Marie Rall

Merrill Jean Frydendall, age 88, of 
Mankato, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday, July 31, 2022. Memorial service will be 
held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at Hilltop United 
Methodist Church, Mankato. Visitation will be held from 5-7:30 p.m., on 
Friday, August 5, 2022, at Northview – North Mankato Mortuary, and will 
continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Burial
 will be in Minneopa Cemetery, Mankato. To view a livestream of the 
service visit <a href="https://youtu.be/mJO1hHfJNjo">https://youtu.be/mJO1hHfJNjo</a>. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to The Friends of Minneopa, Boy Scouts of America, or Lifelong Learners.

Merrill Jean Frydendall, 88, was born to
 Milo Elgin and Bessie Bernetha (Goheen) Frydendall on March 28, 1934 in
 Portis, KS. He graduated from Fort Hays Kansas State College in Hays, KS
 with a B.S. in 1956 and M.S. in 1960, having served two years 
(1957-1959) in the U.S. Army. In August 1959, he married Karen Laizure in
 Hays, KS. He continued his education and, in 1966, graduated from Utah 
State University with a Ph.D. in Vertebrate Ecology. From Fall of 1966 
to June 1998, he taught vertebrate biology courses, including 
Ornithology, at Mankato State University. Merrill and Karen raised two 
children and were happy to see them grow into successful and positive 
members of society. He was a loving and supportive grandfather of four 
granddaughters.

Merrill developed a love of the outdoors
 and animal life as a young boy. As an adult he loved his students and 
teaching, sending many of his students off with their Master’s degrees 
to contribute to the health and welfare of our animals in the wild and 
in zoos, with others passing on their knowledge and passion to further 
generations of students. He became a Scoutmaster with The Boy Scouts of 
America, helping boys develop skills and healthy values to carry them 
through life. Six Scouts earned the Eagle rank under his leadership. 
Merrill himself received The Silver Beaver, the highest adult award in 
Scouting. He also was active in FFA, coaching students for their annual 
wildlife contest. He was a long-time member of the Minnesota 
Ornithological Union, serving a term as President and received the 
Thomas Roberts Sadler Memorial Award, its highest honor, in 2015. 
Merrill was one of the founding members of Friends of Minneopa and 
served as President for several years. He organized Mankato Bird Club in
 1980. This group constructed 50 Eastern Bluebird nest boxes and placed 
them throughout Minneopa State Park, significantly increasing the number
 of bluebirds there. Merrill walked the trail weekly during breeding 
season, checking the boxes and banding the nestlings. Merrill organized 
the Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count in Mankato and administered 
it for many years. He will be ever loved and missed by his family.

Merrill is survived by his wife of 63 
years, Karen; children, Edwin (Gladys) Frydendall, and Laura (Craig) 
Sievert; grandchildren, Kaia Sievert, Kellen (Kevin Campion) Sievert, 
Brenna (Austin) Bushman, and Mattea Sievert; siblings, Sue (Larry) 
Geiger, Gaylene (Dwight) Wiehl, Larry (Dronda) Frydendall; 
sisters-in-law, Marilyn Frydendall, and Patricia Frydendall, as well as 
many nieces and nephews.

Merrill was preceded in death by his 
parents; siblings, Charles Frydendall, and LeRoy Frydendall; nephews and
 niece, Michael Frydendall, Curtis Frydendall, and Mary Jane Frydendall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659475922705.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Merrill Jean Frydendall, age 88, of 
Mankato, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday, July 31, 2022. Memorial service will be 
held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at Hilltop United 
Methodist Church, Mankato. Visitation will be held from 5-7:30 p.m., on 
Friday, August 5, 2022, at Northview – North Mankato Mortuary, and will 
continue one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Burial
 will be in Minneopa Cemetery, Mankato. To view a livestream of the 
service visit <a href="https://youtu.be/mJO1hHfJNjo">https://youtu.be/mJO1hHfJNjo</a>. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to The Friends of Minneopa, Boy Scouts of America, or Lifelong Learners.Merrill Jean Frydendall, 88, was born to
 Milo Elgin and Bessie Bernetha (Goheen) Frydendall on March 28, 1934 in
 Portis, KS. He graduated from Fort Hays Kansas State College in Hays, KS
 with a B.S. in 1956 and M.S. in 1960, having served two years 
(1957-1959) in the U.S. Army. In August 1959, he married Karen Laizure in
 Hays, KS. He continued his education and, in 1966, graduated from Utah 
State University with a Ph.D. in Vertebrate Ecology. From Fall of 1966 
to June 1998, he taught vertebrate biology courses, including 
Ornithology, at Mankato State University. Merrill and Karen raised two 
children and were happy to see them grow into successful and positive 
members of society. He was a loving and supportive grandfather of four 
granddaughters.Merrill developed a love of the outdoors
 and animal life as a young boy. As an adult he loved his students and 
teaching, sending many of his students off with their Master’s degrees 
to contribute to the health and welfare of our animals in the wild and 
in zoos, with others passing on their knowledge and passion to further 
generations of students. He became a Scoutmaster with The Boy Scouts of 
America, helping boys develop skills and healthy values to carry them 
through life. Six Scouts earned the Eagle rank under his leadership. 
Merrill himself received The Silver Beaver, the highest adult award in 
Scouting. He also was active in FFA, coaching students for their annual 
wildlife contest. He was a long-time member of the Minnesota 
Ornithological Union, serving a term as President and received the 
Thomas Roberts Sadler Memorial Award, its highest honor, in 2015. 
Merrill was one of the founding members of Friends of Minneopa and 
served as President for several years. He organized Mankato Bird Club in
 1980. This group constructed 50 Eastern Bluebird nest boxes and placed 
them throughout Minneopa State Park, significantly increasing the number
 of bluebirds there. Merrill walked the trail weekly during breeding 
season, checking the boxes and banding the nestlings. Merrill organized 
the Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count in Mankato and administered 
it for many years. He will be ever loved and missed by his family.Merrill is survived by his wife of 63 
years, Karen; children, Edwin (Gladys) Frydendall, and Laura (Craig) 
Sievert; grandchildren, Kaia Sievert, Kellen (Kevin Campion) Sievert, 
Brenna (Austin) Bushman, and Mattea Sievert; siblings, Sue (Larry) 
Geiger, Gaylene (Dwight) Wiehl, Larry (Dronda) Frydendall; 
sisters-in-law, Marilyn Frydendall, and Patricia Frydendall, as well as 
many nieces and nephews.Merrill was preceded in death by his 
parents; siblings, Charles Frydendall, and LeRoy Frydendall; nephews and
 niece, Michael Frydendall, Curtis Frydendall, and Mary Jane Frydendall.

Merrill Jean Frydendall

Allen Edwin Fisher, 83, of Downs, Kan., passed away July 24, 2022, after
 a two and a half year battle with cancer. He was born March 14, 1939, 
to Nora (Ahlvers) and Edwin Fisher on their farm in Glen Elder, Kan.&nbsp; 
Allen’s family and four children grew up three miles southeast of Cawker
 City. In 1943, Allen lost his father Edwin in a farming accident which 
led to Nora selling the farm to move in with Fred and Louis Ahlvers.&nbsp; 
In the summer of 1944 they then moved to Glen Elder where Allen attended
 12 years of school and in 1956 worked for Smoke Casey until February 
1963. At that time he was drafted into the US Army. Allen served one 
year in Vietnam from May of 1964 to May 1965, one year in Germany, and 
one year in Ft. Stony, Va. Allen was honorably discharged from the Army 
in December of 1966. 
In 1967 he married and to the union Terry and Allen Jr. were born. He later remarried and had four stepchildren.&nbsp; 
Survivors include his children: Terry (Doug) Haws, Allen (Jennifer) 
Fisher; stepchildren, Kevin Sullivan, Kathy McCart, Kirk (Jeana) 
Sullivan, and Kent Sullivan; eleven grandchildren, six great 
grandchildren; and sister, Becky Marzolf.&nbsp; 
Graveside services are at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, at Glenwood Cemetery, Glen Elder. 
Memorials may be given to the Allen Fisher Memorial, to be designated at
 a later date, in care of Schoen Funeral Home and Monuments.&nbsp;

Allen Edwin Fisher, 83, of Downs, Kan., passed away July 24, 2022, after
 a two and a half year battle with cancer. He was born March 14, 1939, 
to Nora (Ahlvers) and Edwin Fisher on their farm in Glen Elder, Kan.&nbsp; 
Allen’s family and four children grew up three miles southeast of Cawker
 City. In 1943, Allen lost his father Edwin in a farming accident which 
led to Nora selling the farm to move in with Fred and Louis Ahlvers.&nbsp; 
In the summer of 1944 they then moved to Glen Elder where Allen attended
 12 years of school and in 1956 worked for Smoke Casey until February 
1963. At that time he was drafted into the US Army. Allen served one 
year in Vietnam from May of 1964 to May 1965, one year in Germany, and 
one year in Ft. Stony, Va. Allen was honorably discharged from the Army 
in December of 1966. 
In 1967 he married and to the union Terry and Allen Jr. were born. He later remarried and had four stepchildren.&nbsp; 
Survivors include his children: Terry (Doug) Haws, Allen (Jennifer) 
Fisher; stepchildren, Kevin Sullivan, Kathy McCart, Kirk (Jeana) 
Sullivan, and Kent Sullivan; eleven grandchildren, six great 
grandchildren; and sister, Becky Marzolf.&nbsp; 
Graveside services are at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, at Glenwood Cemetery, Glen Elder. 
Memorials may be given to the Allen Fisher Memorial, to be designated at
 a later date, in care of Schoen Funeral Home and Monuments.&nbsp;

Allen Edwin Fisher

James McGinness Jr., 80, entered his eternal rest on August 1, 2022,&nbsp; at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, KS.&nbsp; He was born on October 9, 1941,&nbsp; at Ava, MO to James and Bessie (Phillips) McGinness.&nbsp; He married Sharon
 Lloyd-May, on December 25, 1975, at Tribune, KS.

A Larned resident since 1981, coming from Great Bend, he was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Larned.

He was a devoted husband and father.&nbsp; The happiest moments of his 
life were spent with his family, and his children and grandchildren were
 his pride and joy.&nbsp; He cherished his four-legged “children”, Max, Coco,
 and Keesha.

He was preceded in death by a son, Ryan McGinness; his parents; two 
brothers and sisters-in-law, Carl (Cheryl) McGinness and Claude (Gloria)
 McGinness; a sister and brother-in-law, Judith (Harlan) Campbell.

He is survived by his wife, of the home; his son, Tim McGinness; 
daughter, Michele (Michael) Pfortmiller, all of Larned; grandchildren, 
Jessica (Aaron) Winger, Lubbock, TX; Nathanael Pfortmiller, McPherson, 
KS; Kimberly Pfortmiller, and Christian McGinness, both of Larned; a 
sister, Juanita (Joe) LeDesma, El Paso, TX; numerous nieces, nephews, 
and cousins.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 5, 2022, at Sacred 
Heart Catholic Church, Larned, with Father Bernard Felix presiding.&nbsp; 
Vigil service and Rosary will be 7 p.m. Thursday, August 4, 2022, at 
Beckwith Mortuary, Larned.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 
Thursday at the Mortuary.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, 
Larned, KS.

Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society, Larned Food 
Pantry or Sacred Heart Catholic Church in care of Beckwith Mortuary, Box
 477 Larned, KS 67550.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659474562892.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>James McGinness Jr., 80, entered his eternal rest on August 1, 2022,&nbsp; at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, KS.&nbsp; He was born on October 9, 1941,&nbsp; at Ava, MO to James and Bessie (Phillips) McGinness.&nbsp; He married Sharon
 Lloyd-May, on December 25, 1975, at Tribune, KS.A Larned resident since 1981, coming from Great Bend, he was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Larned.He was a devoted husband and father.&nbsp; The happiest moments of his 
life were spent with his family, and his children and grandchildren were
 his pride and joy.&nbsp; He cherished his four-legged “children”, Max, Coco,
 and Keesha.He was preceded in death by a son, Ryan McGinness; his parents; two 
brothers and sisters-in-law, Carl (Cheryl) McGinness and Claude (Gloria)
 McGinness; a sister and brother-in-law, Judith (Harlan) Campbell.He is survived by his wife, of the home; his son, Tim McGinness; 
daughter, Michele (Michael) Pfortmiller, all of Larned; grandchildren, 
Jessica (Aaron) Winger, Lubbock, TX; Nathanael Pfortmiller, McPherson, 
KS; Kimberly Pfortmiller, and Christian McGinness, both of Larned; a 
sister, Juanita (Joe) LeDesma, El Paso, TX; numerous nieces, nephews, 
and cousins.Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 5, 2022, at Sacred 
Heart Catholic Church, Larned, with Father Bernard Felix presiding.&nbsp; 
Vigil service and Rosary will be 7 p.m. Thursday, August 4, 2022, at 
Beckwith Mortuary, Larned.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 
Thursday at the Mortuary.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, 
Larned, KS.Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society, Larned Food 
Pantry or Sacred Heart Catholic Church in care of Beckwith Mortuary, Box
 477 Larned, KS 67550.&nbsp;&nbsp;

James McGinness Jr.

An obituary is pending with Koons-Russell Funeral Home.

Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Betty-Stolz">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659474474052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 11, 1940 ~ July 31, 2022An obituary is pending with Koons-Russell Funeral Home.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Betty-Stolz">HERE</a> for service details.

Betty Ann (Norby) Stolz

Saturday, June 4th, 1938-Monday, August 1st, 2022

An obituary and services are pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Saturday, June 4th, 1938-Monday, August 1st, 2022An obituary and services are pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Goldie Marie Pizel was a beloved grandmother, mother and wife during her incredible 92 years of life. She passed away peacefully in the early hours of Wednesday, July 27th, 2022, at her home in Littleton, Colo. 

Goldie had a long and full life. She was born on Feb. 10, 1930, in Agra, to two loving parents, George H. and Rose (Schmidt) Phillips. She graduated from Goodland High School in the class of 1947.

Goldie met the love of her life, Vernon L. Pizel, while still in high school. They were married June 22, 1947, at the First Christian Church in Goodland, Kansas during a dual ceremony for both her and her sister-in-law.

Vernon served in the Air Force during World War II. When Vernon left the Air Force, he became a partner in a family business called BP&amp;VP Construction Company aka “The Alphabet Boys." Goldie and Vernon moved numerous times for his job traveling all over the great state of Kansas while he helped build parts of Interstate 70 and other roads. Goldie and Vernon welcomed their daughter Diana Dec. 14, 1949, and their son John on July 5, 1952. 

In 1963, they settled back in Goodland where Goldie worked as assistant manager at Sears before they moved to the farm in Kanorado. While on the farm, Goldie enjoyed helping with the cattle, gardening, canning, as well as helping her kids with their 4-H activities.

Goldie was also known for her impeccable sewing abilities. She crafted many outfits and costumes throughout all her years. She was known to stay up all night making costumes for dance recitals for Diana and horse shows for Jordan when things didn’t always go as planned. 

Goldie had a heart for caring for people and dedicated herself to serve others in various ways. She became a full-time caretaker to her son, John, after his accident in 1968 until his death in 1984. After Vernon’s death in 1987, Goldie moved to Denver to help care for her granddaughters Lindsay and Jordan.

She then volunteered as an aid at Westridge Elementary when Lindsay was in kindergarten. She later was hired on to be a paid paraprofessional for the school. For over 20 years children in the hallways of Westridge Elementary called her “Grandma Goldie."

She filled the grandparent role for many children through the years and loved them all as her own. Goldie earned the title of “great-grandma” in 2014 with the birth of her first great-grandson Logan. She helped Jordan raise Logan and run an in-home daycare where she again shined at being a caretaker. Grandma Goldie always had a lap to sit on, arms open for a hug, and an “I love you” waiting to be said. 

She doted on her granddaughters. Lindsay and Jordan couldn’t spend a minute with her without her telling them how much she loved them and how proud she was to be their grandmother. She showed up to almost every school event, sports practice/game, horse riding show, dance recitals, etc. they had. Lindsay and Jordan's friends lovingly called their group of grandparents the “G-Unit” and always noted how they were always there for them. That love continued to her two great-grandsons Logan and Timothy. We know without a doubt that she would have showed up for them in the same ways if given the chance.

We will miss Goldie dearly, but we are so grateful for the time we had to spend with her. We will always feel her presence in our hearts. We all will remember Goldie for her love of family and all children, her multitude of skills, her sass, her care-taking abilities, and her endearing stubbornness.

Goldie is survived by her daughter Diana (Ellis) Black of Hall, Montana. Granddaughters Lindsay (Jenni) Black of Highlands Ranch, Colo., and Jordan (Tim) Doyle of Hall, Mont. Great-grandsons Logan and Timothy of Hall, Mont., and sister-in-law, Shirley Churchill of Novato, Calif. She is preceded in death by her mother Rose Phillips, Father George H. Phillips, step-mother Lota Phillips, husband Vernon Pizel, and son John Pizel. 

Funeral service for Goldie will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland with Rev. Dr. Donald Warren officiating.  Burial will follow in the Goodland Cemetery.  

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. (MT) Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022, at Koons-Russell Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be given to The Denver Hospice or charity of your choice and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

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

Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659455157484.jpeg" alt="Goldie Marie Pizel" />
 <figcaption>Goldie Marie Pizel</figcaption>
 </figure>Goldie Marie Pizel was a beloved grandmother, mother and wife during her incredible 92 years of life. She passed away peacefully in the early hours of Wednesday, July 27th, 2022, at her home in Littleton, Colo. Goldie had a long and full life. She was born on Feb. 10, 1930, in Agra, to two loving parents, George H. and Rose (Schmidt) Phillips. She graduated from Goodland High School in the class of 1947.Goldie met the love of her life, Vernon L. Pizel, while still in high school. They were married June 22, 1947, at the First Christian Church in Goodland, Kansas during a dual ceremony for both her and her sister-in-law.Vernon served in the Air Force during World War II. When Vernon left the Air Force, he became a partner in a family business called BP&amp;VP Construction Company aka “The Alphabet Boys." Goldie and Vernon moved numerous times for his job traveling all over the great state of Kansas while he helped build parts of Interstate 70 and other roads. Goldie and Vernon welcomed their daughter Diana Dec. 14, 1949, and their son John on July 5, 1952. In 1963, they settled back in Goodland where Goldie worked as assistant manager at Sears before they moved to the farm in Kanorado. While on the farm, Goldie enjoyed helping with the cattle, gardening, canning, as well as helping her kids with their 4-H activities.Goldie was also known for her impeccable sewing abilities. She crafted many outfits and costumes throughout all her years. She was known to stay up all night making costumes for dance recitals for Diana and horse shows for Jordan when things didn’t always go as planned. Goldie had a heart for caring for people and dedicated herself to serve others in various ways. She became a full-time caretaker to her son, John, after his accident in 1968 until his death in 1984. After Vernon’s death in 1987, Goldie moved to Denver to help care for her granddaughters Lindsay and Jordan.She then volunteered as an aid at Westridge Elementary when Lindsay was in kindergarten. She later was hired on to be a paid paraprofessional for the school. For over 20 years children in the hallways of Westridge Elementary called her “Grandma Goldie."She filled the grandparent role for many children through the years and loved them all as her own. Goldie earned the title of “great-grandma” in 2014 with the birth of her first great-grandson Logan. She helped Jordan raise Logan and run an in-home daycare where she again shined at being a caretaker. Grandma Goldie always had a lap to sit on, arms open for a hug, and an “I love you” waiting to be said. She doted on her granddaughters. Lindsay and Jordan couldn’t spend a minute with her without her telling them how much she loved them and how proud she was to be their grandmother. She showed up to almost every school event, sports practice/game, horse riding show, dance recitals, etc. they had. Lindsay and Jordan's friends lovingly called their group of grandparents the “G-Unit” and always noted how they were always there for them. That love continued to her two great-grandsons Logan and Timothy. We know without a doubt that she would have showed up for them in the same ways if given the chance.We will miss Goldie dearly, but we are so grateful for the time we had to spend with her. We will always feel her presence in our hearts. We all will remember Goldie for her love of family and all children, her multitude of skills, her sass, her care-taking abilities, and her endearing stubbornness.Goldie is survived by her daughter Diana (Ellis) Black of Hall, Montana. Granddaughters Lindsay (Jenni) Black of Highlands Ranch, Colo., and Jordan (Tim) Doyle of Hall, Mont. Great-grandsons Logan and Timothy of Hall, Mont., and sister-in-law, Shirley Churchill of Novato, Calif. She is preceded in death by her mother Rose Phillips, Father George H. Phillips, step-mother Lota Phillips, husband Vernon Pizel, and son John Pizel. Funeral service for Goldie will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland with Rev. Dr. Donald Warren officiating. Burial will follow in the Goodland Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. (MT) Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022, at Koons-Russell Funeral Home.Memorial contributions may be given to The Denver Hospice or charity of your choice and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.Online condolences to the family may be left at <a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.

Goldie Marie Pizel

Rita Louise Welle, age 100, of&nbsp;Goodland, Kansas&nbsp;passed away Friday, 
July 29, 2022, at Richmond Health Care and Rehabilitation Center in 
Richmond, Kansas.&nbsp;

Rita Welle, daughter of James and Bessie (Hess) Sponsel, was born in 
Sherman County Kansas on October 19, 1921.&nbsp; When she was three months 
old, her parents moved to Cheyenne Wells, Colorado.&nbsp; They lived there 
for nine years.&nbsp; Her mother died when Rita was seven years old putting a
 strain on the family.&nbsp; It was decided that her dad should place her and
 two of the sisters in the Abilene Boarding School.&nbsp; She was there 
through the eighth grade, which was as long as they kept them at that 
time.&nbsp; From there, she returned to Cheyenne Wells where she lived with 
her sister, Frances where she attended high school.

She was married on June 25,1939 to Harold Welle.&nbsp; They lived on a 
farm at Arapahoe, Colorado&nbsp; where they farmed and ranched.&nbsp; They 
weathered many storms, drought and hail. In 1953 they were forced to 
sell all of the cattle due to a severe drought.&nbsp; Vowing to not have to 
do this again, they put in the first registered&nbsp;irrigation well in 
Cheyenne County, it showed what water could do.

In 1963 they sold the farm to retire, but soon&nbsp; bought The Trail In 
Motel in Cheyenne Wells. They ran it for 9 years and then sold it to try
 to retire a little longer this time.&nbsp; They purchased a motorhome&nbsp;and 
travelled through 49 states, Mexico, Canada and 5 European countries.

After Harold's passing, she moved to Goodland in 1990 to be closer to
 some of her sisters.&nbsp; She worked at&nbsp;Carnegie Arts and Red Cross.&nbsp; Rita 
spent her spare time playing cards, crocheting, reading and going around
 the area playing bingo.

She spent several years in the Goodland Nursing home after becoming 
unable to live alone in her house.&nbsp; She spent about a month in the 
Richmond Nursing home in Richmond Kansas where she passed away.

She was preceded in death by her husband, 2 infant daughters, her&nbsp; 
parents, brother Bud Sponsel, and sisters&nbsp;Frances Pilger, Mertle 
Vinduski, Blanche Beltch, Veronica Pilcher, Opal Ihrig, and Teresa 
Schreivogel.

She leaves to mourn her son, Linden Welle and his wife Marcene 
(Wolfe) of Fort Morgan Colorado, daughter Rose Welle (Woods) of Richmond
 Kansas, 3 grandchildren, Darrin Welle and wife Ricelle of Morgan 
Heights California, Janna Baker (Welle) and husband Doug of Wray 
Colorado and Verle Welle and wife Rhonda of Osawatomie Kansas, 5 great 
grandchildren, Brock Welle of Osawatomie Kansas, Jordan Welle (wife 
Kimberly) of Wellsville Kansas, Toya Welle of Washburn Iowa,&nbsp; Tonya 
(husband Donnie) Welch and Mark Baker in the US Navy, and 8 great great 
grandchildren, Jaden Welch, Karson Welch, Kaysen Welch, Tristan Welch, 
Zachary Welle, Adalynn Welle, Ryliegh Welle, Skylar Welle, and many more
 friends and relatives.

Memorials may be designated to OLPH Catholic Church and may be left 
at the services or sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 278, 
Goodland, Kansas 68835.&nbsp; Information or online condolences visit 
www.batemanfuneral.com

Click <a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Rita-Welle">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659443570883.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rita Louise Welle, age 100, of&nbsp;Goodland, Kansas&nbsp;passed away Friday, 
July 29, 2022, at Richmond Health Care and Rehabilitation Center in 
Richmond, Kansas.&nbsp;Rita Welle, daughter of James and Bessie (Hess) Sponsel, was born in 
Sherman County Kansas on October 19, 1921.&nbsp; When she was three months 
old, her parents moved to Cheyenne Wells, Colorado.&nbsp; They lived there 
for nine years.&nbsp; Her mother died when Rita was seven years old putting a
 strain on the family.&nbsp; It was decided that her dad should place her and
 two of the sisters in the Abilene Boarding School.&nbsp; She was there 
through the eighth grade, which was as long as they kept them at that 
time.&nbsp; From there, she returned to Cheyenne Wells where she lived with 
her sister, Frances where she attended high school.She was married on June 25,1939 to Harold Welle.&nbsp; They lived on a 
farm at Arapahoe, Colorado&nbsp; where they farmed and ranched.&nbsp; They 
weathered many storms, drought and hail. In 1953 they were forced to 
sell all of the cattle due to a severe drought.&nbsp; Vowing to not have to 
do this again, they put in the first registered&nbsp;irrigation well in 
Cheyenne County, it showed what water could do.In 1963 they sold the farm to retire, but soon&nbsp; bought The Trail In 
Motel in Cheyenne Wells. They ran it for 9 years and then sold it to try
 to retire a little longer this time.&nbsp; They purchased a motorhome&nbsp;and 
travelled through 49 states, Mexico, Canada and 5 European countries.After Harold's passing, she moved to Goodland in 1990 to be closer to
 some of her sisters.&nbsp; She worked at&nbsp;Carnegie Arts and Red Cross.&nbsp; Rita 
spent her spare time playing cards, crocheting, reading and going around
 the area playing bingo.She spent several years in the Goodland Nursing home after becoming 
unable to live alone in her house.&nbsp; She spent about a month in the 
Richmond Nursing home in Richmond Kansas where she passed away.She was preceded in death by her husband, 2 infant daughters, her&nbsp; 
parents, brother Bud Sponsel, and sisters&nbsp;Frances Pilger, Mertle 
Vinduski, Blanche Beltch, Veronica Pilcher, Opal Ihrig, and Teresa 
Schreivogel.She leaves to mourn her son, Linden Welle and his wife Marcene 
(Wolfe) of Fort Morgan Colorado, daughter Rose Welle (Woods) of Richmond
 Kansas, 3 grandchildren, Darrin Welle and wife Ricelle of Morgan 
Heights California, Janna Baker (Welle) and husband Doug of Wray 
Colorado and Verle Welle and wife Rhonda of Osawatomie Kansas, 5 great 
grandchildren, Brock Welle of Osawatomie Kansas, Jordan Welle (wife 
Kimberly) of Wellsville Kansas, Toya Welle of Washburn Iowa,&nbsp; Tonya 
(husband Donnie) Welch and Mark Baker in the US Navy, and 8 great great 
grandchildren, Jaden Welch, Karson Welch, Kaysen Welch, Tristan Welch, 
Zachary Welle, Adalynn Welle, Ryliegh Welle, Skylar Welle, and many more
 friends and relatives.Memorials may be designated to OLPH Catholic Church and may be left 
at the services or sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 278, 
Goodland, Kansas 68835.&nbsp; Information or online condolences visit 
www.batemanfuneral.comClick <a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Rita-Welle">HERE</a> for service details.

Rita Louise Welle

Martha Letsch, age 88 of Luray, KS went to be with the lord, July 24, 2022, at the Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington, KS.
 She was born November 13, 1933, in Russell, KS the daughter of Hynek 
and Anna (Sita) Brant. Martha grew up on her family farm located north 
of Lucas. She graduated from Lucas High School and later married Duane 
Letsch. One child was born the union, Duane Douglas (Doug). Duane and 
Martha worked on their farm for several years before selling it and 
moved to Luray. Duane later died, leaving Martha to raise Doug through 
his youth, and seeing him graduate from Lucas High School.
 She loved to work in her yard, reading the paper, watch movies and 
kept her mind sharp by doing many types of puzzle books. Martha enjoyed
 keeping in touch (mostly by phone) with many family members and 
friends.
 She is survived by her son; Doug of Luray, KS. She was preceded in 
death by her husband Duane; parents, sisters Emilie Lynn, Anna Gardner, 
Vera Lewis and Beatrice (Brant-Pike) Honomichl; and brothers Vaclav 
(Jim) Brant, Anton Brant and Stanley Brant.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659443501573.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Martha Letsch, age 88 of Luray, KS went to be with the lord, July 24, 2022, at the Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington, KS.
 She was born November 13, 1933, in Russell, KS the daughter of Hynek 
and Anna (Sita) Brant. Martha grew up on her family farm located north 
of Lucas. She graduated from Lucas High School and later married Duane 
Letsch. One child was born the union, Duane Douglas (Doug). Duane and 
Martha worked on their farm for several years before selling it and 
moved to Luray. Duane later died, leaving Martha to raise Doug through 
his youth, and seeing him graduate from Lucas High School.
 She loved to work in her yard, reading the paper, watch movies and 
kept her mind sharp by doing many types of puzzle books. Martha enjoyed
 keeping in touch (mostly by phone) with many family members and 
friends.
 She is survived by her son; Doug of Luray, KS. She was preceded in 
death by her husband Duane; parents, sisters Emilie Lynn, Anna Gardner, 
Vera Lewis and Beatrice (Brant-Pike) Honomichl; and brothers Vaclav 
(Jim) Brant, Anton Brant and Stanley Brant.&nbsp;Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Martha-Letsch?obId=25481768#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Obituaries