Shirley Ann Urban, 86, La Crosse, Kansas, passed away Sunday, June 
19, 2022, at Rush County Memorial Hospital Intermediate Swing Bed, La 
Crosse, Kansas.

Shirley was born November 2, 1935, in rural Rush County, Kansas, the 
daughter of Edmond B. and Charlet D. (Schaffer) Kline.&nbsp; She was a 
lifelong resident of Rush County, Kansas.&nbsp; Shirley and her husband, Art,
 owned and operated the Wishbone Café in La Crosse, Kansas. She also 
worked at Leiker’s Daylight Donut, and the Rush County Memorial 
Hospital, both of La Crosse, Kansas, before her retirement.

She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, La Crosse, Kansas.

On March 5, 1962, she married Wendlin A. “Art” Urban at St. Michael’s
 Catholic Church, La Crosse, Kansas.&nbsp; He preceded her in death July 16, 
2011.

Shirley and Art&nbsp; enjoyed camping, fishing, and spending time with their families.

Survivors include:&nbsp; two sisters, Bernice Stegman (Sy), Derby, Kansas,
 and Eileen Love (Jack), Great Bend, Kansas; and numerous nephews and 
nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and &nbsp;two brothers, Gerald “Jerry” Kline, and Gene Kline.

Church visitation will be Saturday, June 25, 2022, from 9:00 A.M. to 
10:00 A.M. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, La Crosse, Kansas.&nbsp; A 
rosary will be at 9:30 A.M. &nbsp;

Memorial service will be Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 10:00 A.M. at 
St. Michael’s Catholic Church, La Crosse, Kansas, with Father Stephen 
Dabanka, Father Edmond Kline, and Reverend Reginald A. Urban 
officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in the La Crosse City Cemetery, La 
Crosse, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to the 
Rush County Memorial Hospital Intermediate Swing Bed, La Crosse, Kansas.

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655817129706.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Shirley Ann Urban, 86, La Crosse, Kansas, passed away Sunday, June 
19, 2022, at Rush County Memorial Hospital Intermediate Swing Bed, La 
Crosse, Kansas.Shirley was born November 2, 1935, in rural Rush County, Kansas, the 
daughter of Edmond B. and Charlet D. (Schaffer) Kline.&nbsp; She was a 
lifelong resident of Rush County, Kansas.&nbsp; Shirley and her husband, Art,
 owned and operated the Wishbone Café in La Crosse, Kansas. She also 
worked at Leiker’s Daylight Donut, and the Rush County Memorial 
Hospital, both of La Crosse, Kansas, before her retirement.She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, La Crosse, Kansas.On March 5, 1962, she married Wendlin A. “Art” Urban at St. Michael’s
 Catholic Church, La Crosse, Kansas.&nbsp; He preceded her in death July 16, 
2011.Shirley and Art&nbsp; enjoyed camping, fishing, and spending time with their families.Survivors include:&nbsp; two sisters, Bernice Stegman (Sy), Derby, Kansas,
 and Eileen Love (Jack), Great Bend, Kansas; and numerous nephews and 
nieces.She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and &nbsp;two brothers, Gerald “Jerry” Kline, and Gene Kline.Church visitation will be Saturday, June 25, 2022, from 9:00 A.M. to 
10:00 A.M. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, La Crosse, Kansas.&nbsp; A 
rosary will be at 9:30 A.M. &nbsp;Memorial service will be Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 10:00 A.M. at 
St. Michael’s Catholic Church, La Crosse, Kansas, with Father Stephen 
Dabanka, Father Edmond Kline, and Reverend Reginald A. Urban 
officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in the La Crosse City Cemetery, La 
Crosse, Kansas.In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to the 
Rush County Memorial Hospital Intermediate Swing Bed, La Crosse, Kansas.Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

Shirley Ann Urban

Doreen Elizabeth (Wagoner) Kennedy, 99, passed away at the Sheridan 
County Health Complex LTC on June 18, 2022. She was born to Edward 
Nicholas and Kathryn (Schwarz) Wagoner on March 16, 1923, at the family 
home northeast of Grinnell, Kansas. 

Doreen grew up on the farm with her 
seven siblings. She attended a one-room grade school, Hillside #60 and 
went to high school in Oakley for a year and finished her last three 
years and graduated from Hoxie High School in the class of 1941. Raymond
 Garland, Principal of Hoxie High School, got her a scholarship to 
attend Barnes Business College in Denver where she earned a certificate.
 After attending Business College, she returned to Hoxie and went to 
work at the ASCS office. 

Doreen Wagoner married William Francis Kennedy 
on October 2, 1945, at St. Paul Catholic Church, in Angelus, Kansas. 
After their marriage, they lived on a farm near Stockton, Kansas. 
Several years later, they moved to their farm south of Hoxie. They were 
blessed with six children which they raised on the family farm south of 
Hoxie. Bill passed away on August 19, 1978.
 Doreen was elected and served as Sheridan County Clerk for twelve 
years. She enjoyed growing a big garden and had a huge strawberry patch.
 She spent many hours canning tomatoes, peaches, pears, beets and 
making pickles. She loved to bake, and her pies were the best. She 
worked for the Hoxie Sale barn and baked pies for them to serve with the
 meals they prepared. Doreen was a hard worker, but she enjoyed many 
activities. She loved dancing. she especially liked the polka, big 
band swing and square dancing. Playing cards, Pitch, and Pinochle, was 
another favorite pastime.

She was a member of the Red Hats Group, was 
involved with the Western Plains Arts Association, and the Northwest 
Kansas Area Agency on Aging. Doreen spent many mornings enjoying coffee 
and the company of friends at the Stop-to-Shop and Mahanna’s Pharmacy. 
She also enjoyed traveling with several of her friends going on bus 
trips around the country as well as trips to Hawaii, Mexico, and the 
Panama Canal. Family get togethers, particularly, Thanksgiving and 
Christmas celebrations were some of her favorite family times. She loved
 going to the Sheridan County Fair and always enjoyed visiting with 
friends. She just loved being around people and socializing. Doreen grew
 up and was a member of the St. Paul Catholic Church in Angelus. After 
moving to Hoxie, Doreen attended the Church in Seguin, Kansas until 
Hoxie got a Catholic Church in 1949. She became a lifelong member of the
 St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas. She served as the 
treasurer of the St. Frances Cabrini Sodality for many years. 
 Doreen is survived by are her daughters Marilynn Nemes (Al) of 
Littleton, Colorado, Sheryl McIlnay (Joe) of Colby, Kansas; sons, Don 
Kennedy (Kathy) of Oakley, Kansas, Jim Kennedy (Deb) of Dodge City, 
Kansas, and Keith Kennedy (Pat) of Hoxie, Kansas; grandchildren, 
Kimberly Garfield (Aaron), Michelle Guthrie (Lee), Brian Kennedy (Lily),
 Dan Kennedy, Michael Kennedy (Mahalia), Melissa Johnson (Douglas), Dr. Brad
 McIlnay (Gretchen), Angela Holtz (Bobby), Amanda Juenemann (Michael), 
Cari Miller (Jay), Ryan Kennedy (Lacie), Adam Kennedy (Lorena), Jenna 
Sloan (Hale), Jill Schoendaler (Drew), and Kyle Kennedy (Jennifer); and 
thirty-five great-grandchildren.
 She was preceded in death by her husband, William Kennedy; son, 
Ronald Kennedy and great-grandson, John Juenemann; parents, Edward and Kathryn Wagoner; sisters, Marjorie 
Bachand, Eileen Nondorf, and Patricia Foster; and brothers, Wilfred 
Wagoner, LeRoy Wagoner, James Wagoner, and Kenneth Wagoner.
 A Mass of Christian Burial is planned for Friday, June 24, 2022, 
10:30 A.M., at the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas. 
Visitation will be Thursday, June 23, 2022, from 1:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. 
with family receiving friends from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral
 home. The Vigil and Rosary Service will be held following the 
visitation and will begin at 7:00 P.M.

The family suggests memorials to 
the Sheridan County Amusement Company, Sheridan County Benefit Walk or 
Masses. Memorial may be sent in care of Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO 
Box 987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740. Words of comfort may be left at 
www.mickeyleopoldfuneral.com&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655817032866.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Doreen Elizabeth (Wagoner) Kennedy, 99, passed away at the Sheridan 
County Health Complex LTC on June 18, 2022. She was born to Edward 
Nicholas and Kathryn (Schwarz) Wagoner on March 16, 1923, at the family 
home northeast of Grinnell, Kansas. Doreen grew up on the farm with her 
seven siblings. She attended a one-room grade school, Hillside #60 and 
went to high school in Oakley for a year and finished her last three 
years and graduated from Hoxie High School in the class of 1941. Raymond
 Garland, Principal of Hoxie High School, got her a scholarship to 
attend Barnes Business College in Denver where she earned a certificate.
 After attending Business College, she returned to Hoxie and went to 
work at the ASCS office. Doreen Wagoner married William Francis Kennedy 
on October 2, 1945, at St. Paul Catholic Church, in Angelus, Kansas. 
After their marriage, they lived on a farm near Stockton, Kansas. 
Several years later, they moved to their farm south of Hoxie. They were 
blessed with six children which they raised on the family farm south of 
Hoxie. Bill passed away on August 19, 1978.
 Doreen was elected and served as Sheridan County Clerk for twelve 
years. She enjoyed growing a big garden and had a huge strawberry patch.
 She spent many hours canning tomatoes, peaches, pears, beets and 
making pickles. She loved to bake, and her pies were the best. She 
worked for the Hoxie Sale barn and baked pies for them to serve with the
 meals they prepared. Doreen was a hard worker, but she enjoyed many 
activities. She loved dancing. she especially liked the polka, big 
band swing and square dancing. Playing cards, Pitch, and Pinochle, was 
another favorite pastime. She was a member of the Red Hats Group, was 
involved with the Western Plains Arts Association, and the Northwest 
Kansas Area Agency on Aging. Doreen spent many mornings enjoying coffee 
and the company of friends at the Stop-to-Shop and Mahanna’s Pharmacy. 
She also enjoyed traveling with several of her friends going on bus 
trips around the country as well as trips to Hawaii, Mexico, and the 
Panama Canal. Family get togethers, particularly, Thanksgiving and 
Christmas celebrations were some of her favorite family times. She loved
 going to the Sheridan County Fair and always enjoyed visiting with 
friends. She just loved being around people and socializing. Doreen grew
 up and was a member of the St. Paul Catholic Church in Angelus. After 
moving to Hoxie, Doreen attended the Church in Seguin, Kansas until 
Hoxie got a Catholic Church in 1949. She became a lifelong member of the
 St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas. She served as the 
treasurer of the St. Frances Cabrini Sodality for many years. 
 Doreen is survived by are her daughters Marilynn Nemes (Al) of 
Littleton, Colorado, Sheryl McIlnay (Joe) of Colby, Kansas; sons, Don 
Kennedy (Kathy) of Oakley, Kansas, Jim Kennedy (Deb) of Dodge City, 
Kansas, and Keith Kennedy (Pat) of Hoxie, Kansas; grandchildren, 
Kimberly Garfield (Aaron), Michelle Guthrie (Lee), Brian Kennedy (Lily),
 Dan Kennedy, Michael Kennedy (Mahalia), Melissa Johnson (Douglas), Dr. Brad
 McIlnay (Gretchen), Angela Holtz (Bobby), Amanda Juenemann (Michael), 
Cari Miller (Jay), Ryan Kennedy (Lacie), Adam Kennedy (Lorena), Jenna 
Sloan (Hale), Jill Schoendaler (Drew), and Kyle Kennedy (Jennifer); and 
thirty-five great-grandchildren.
 She was preceded in death by her husband, William Kennedy; son, 
Ronald Kennedy and great-grandson, John Juenemann; parents, Edward and Kathryn Wagoner; sisters, Marjorie 
Bachand, Eileen Nondorf, and Patricia Foster; and brothers, Wilfred 
Wagoner, LeRoy Wagoner, James Wagoner, and Kenneth Wagoner.
 A Mass of Christian Burial is planned for Friday, June 24, 2022, 
10:30 A.M., at the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas. 
Visitation will be Thursday, June 23, 2022, from 1:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. 
with family receiving friends from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral
 home. The Vigil and Rosary Service will be held following the 
visitation and will begin at 7:00 P.M. The family suggests memorials to 
the Sheridan County Amusement Company, Sheridan County Benefit Walk or 
Masses. Memorial may be sent in care of Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO 
Box 987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740. Words of comfort may be left at 
www.mickeyleopoldfuneral.com&nbsp;

Doreen Elizabeth (Wagoner) Kennedy

Glen
 Armbruster of Hays, Kansas, died Monday, June 20, 2022, at The Good 
Samaritan Society - Hays.&nbsp; 

Services are pending and will be announced by
 Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine Street, Hays, 
Kansas 67601.

Condolences may be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or by email at keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655816937326.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Glen
 Armbruster of Hays, Kansas, died Monday, June 20, 2022, at The Good 
Samaritan Society - Hays.&nbsp; Services are pending and will be announced by
 Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine Street, Hays, 
Kansas 67601.Condolences may be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or by email at keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com

Glen Armbruster

Scott L. Thein, age 69 years, Of Great Bend, Kansas, passed away on 
Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at Aster Estates in Great Bend.&nbsp; Scott was born 
in Seattle, Washington, and grew up in Sand Diego, California.&nbsp; He 
attended the University of California Berkeley where he graduated with 
high honors and was awarded a degree in philosophy.&nbsp; He then moved to 
New York City, New York, where he lived for over 40 years.&nbsp; It was there
 that he picked up a pencil and began to chronicle his experience of 
life within the warrens of the urban grid.&nbsp; Most recently Scott moved to
 Great Bend, Kansas to be among friends.&nbsp; He is survived by a brother 
Stephen Thein.

Scott was an artist, a melancholic philosopher and critic of the 
human condition.&nbsp; He had an analytical intellect that bordered on tragic
 genius.&nbsp; His art and his conversation revealed an obsessive need to 
expose inner connections and workings hidden beneath mundane social 
realities.&nbsp; Scott had a particular love and spiritual connection to the 
writings of Martin Heidegger.

In one exhibition, Scott used drawings, done on cast off shopping 
bags, to illustrate the famous philosopher’s way of interpreting the 
world.&nbsp; In his introduction to the series “Heidegger’s Ghost” he wrote, 
“… the shopping bag in becoming abandoned, useless, refuse, is becoming 
its own unique ontology which can then be transformed into a work of 
art.” Which is to say that when something or someone no longer fulfills 
its assigned function in the world and loses its labels it can be seen 
with new eyes. Scott embraced this sense of estrangement in his life and
 his art.&nbsp; He says in the same essay that our personal feelings of 
alienation “seem strange to us and in its strangeness we can picture it 
and we can draw it.”

A Memorial Celebration and scattering of cremated remains will be 
held on Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 10:30 AM on the campus of Aster 
Estates, 155 NW 10 Avenue, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; Refreshments and good 
conversation will be provided.&nbsp; 

Memorials in Scott’s name may be made to
 the Barton Community College Foundation (aka Barton Foundation) for the
 Shafer Art Gallery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655817382246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scott L. Thein, age 69 years, Of Great Bend, Kansas, passed away on 
Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at Aster Estates in Great Bend.&nbsp; Scott was born 
in Seattle, Washington, and grew up in Sand Diego, California.&nbsp; He 
attended the University of California Berkeley where he graduated with 
high honors and was awarded a degree in philosophy.&nbsp; He then moved to 
New York City, New York, where he lived for over 40 years.&nbsp; It was there
 that he picked up a pencil and began to chronicle his experience of 
life within the warrens of the urban grid.&nbsp; Most recently Scott moved to
 Great Bend, Kansas to be among friends.&nbsp; He is survived by a brother 
Stephen Thein.Scott was an artist, a melancholic philosopher and critic of the 
human condition.&nbsp; He had an analytical intellect that bordered on tragic
 genius.&nbsp; His art and his conversation revealed an obsessive need to 
expose inner connections and workings hidden beneath mundane social 
realities.&nbsp; Scott had a particular love and spiritual connection to the 
writings of Martin Heidegger.In one exhibition, Scott used drawings, done on cast off shopping 
bags, to illustrate the famous philosopher’s way of interpreting the 
world.&nbsp; In his introduction to the series “Heidegger’s Ghost” he wrote, 
“… the shopping bag in becoming abandoned, useless, refuse, is becoming 
its own unique ontology which can then be transformed into a work of 
art.” Which is to say that when something or someone no longer fulfills 
its assigned function in the world and loses its labels it can be seen 
with new eyes. Scott embraced this sense of estrangement in his life and
 his art.&nbsp; He says in the same essay that our personal feelings of 
alienation “seem strange to us and in its strangeness we can picture it 
and we can draw it.”A Memorial Celebration and scattering of cremated remains will be 
held on Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 10:30 AM on the campus of Aster 
Estates, 155 NW 10 Avenue, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; Refreshments and good 
conversation will be provided.&nbsp; Memorials in Scott’s name may be made to
 the Barton Community College Foundation (aka Barton Foundation) for the
 Shafer Art Gallery.

Scott L. Thein

Kevin Otis Gross, 55, passed away Sunday June 19, 2022, at his 
residence in Larned, KS. He was born December 3, 1966, in Wichita, KS. 
the son of Vern “Bud” and Loretta Belisle Gross. An area resident, he 
was a construction worker in Dodge City.

Kevin was known for having a green thumb, growing anything especially
 tomatoes. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, music, cooking, fishing, 
anything outdoors and the Green Bay Packers. He especially loved his 
grand kids, kids and family.

On October 2, 1993, he married Brenda F. Musgrove in Great Bend, KS. She survives.

Other survivors include: his mother, Loretta Gross, Forreston, TX.; 
one son, Brandon Gross, Great Bend, KS.; two daughters, Tasha (Luke) 
Lloyd, Larned, KS. and Jacy (Seth) Gross, Larned, KS.; four brothers, 
Paul (Tina) Gross, Wichita, KS., Steve Gross, Spearville, KS., Danny 
(Karen) Gross, Schererville, IN. and Terry Gross, Miami, OK; one sister,
 Kimberly Gross, Forreston, TX.; six grandchildren, Anna Marie, Graydon 
Lee, LaShauna Kay, Memphis Bradley, Willow Grace, Laynee Faye and many 
nieces and nephews and adopted kids. &nbsp;

He was preceded in death by his father, Vern “Bud” Gross and his right-hand man, dog Mystery.

Funeral Service will be held 3:00pm Friday, June 24, 2022, at Beckwith
 Mortuary with Pastor David Spare presiding. Family requests casual 
attire. Visitation will be held 9am to 8pm Thursday, June 23, 2022, at 
Beckwith Mortuary with family present from 5pm to 7pm. Cremation will 
take place following the service.

Memorials may be given to the Kevin Gross Memorial Fund in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, KS. 67550.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655755032207.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kevin Otis Gross, 55, passed away Sunday June 19, 2022, at his 
residence in Larned, KS. He was born December 3, 1966, in Wichita, KS. 
the son of Vern “Bud” and Loretta Belisle Gross. An area resident, he 
was a construction worker in Dodge City.Kevin was known for having a green thumb, growing anything especially
 tomatoes. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, music, cooking, fishing, 
anything outdoors and the Green Bay Packers. He especially loved his 
grand kids, kids and family.On October 2, 1993, he married Brenda F. Musgrove in Great Bend, KS. She survives.Other survivors include: his mother, Loretta Gross, Forreston, TX.; 
one son, Brandon Gross, Great Bend, KS.; two daughters, Tasha (Luke) 
Lloyd, Larned, KS. and Jacy (Seth) Gross, Larned, KS.; four brothers, 
Paul (Tina) Gross, Wichita, KS., Steve Gross, Spearville, KS., Danny 
(Karen) Gross, Schererville, IN. and Terry Gross, Miami, OK; one sister,
 Kimberly Gross, Forreston, TX.; six grandchildren, Anna Marie, Graydon 
Lee, LaShauna Kay, Memphis Bradley, Willow Grace, Laynee Faye and many 
nieces and nephews and adopted kids. &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his father, Vern “Bud” Gross and his right-hand man, dog Mystery.Funeral Service will be held 3:00pm Friday, June 24, 2022, at Beckwith
 Mortuary with Pastor David Spare presiding. Family requests casual 
attire. Visitation will be held 9am to 8pm Thursday, June 23, 2022, at 
Beckwith Mortuary with family present from 5pm to 7pm. Cremation will 
take place following the service.Memorials may be given to the Kevin Gross Memorial Fund in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, KS. 67550.

Kevin Otis Gross

Jody Lee (Elwood) Black was born on July 23, 1963, to Robert Neal and 
Norma Jean (Michals) Elwood in McCook, Nebraska and gained her wings on 
June 20, 2022, at the age of 58. 
 She grew up on a farm outside of Wilsonville, Nebraska, with her 6 
siblings where you’d find her outside most of the time riding horses, 
tantalizing her sister Susan with cats, helping her mom and sisters 
dress chickens, and playing with the animals especially the German 
Shepard puppies her mom would raise. She avoided inside chores as much 
as possible. During the summer, it was her and younger brother Kyle’s 
job to bring the milk cows from the pasture every afternoon and take 
them back across the creek to pasture the next morning. She had many 
fond memories growing up on the farm and had said many times she wished 
her kids could have been so lucky. 
 She attended K-7th grade in Wilsonville baptized at the Christian 
Church of Wilsonville before transferring her membership to the United 
Methodist Church in Oberlin where her family moved in 1976. Her faith 
was very important to her and gave her great comfort during her years of
 dealing with kidney cancer. She participated in all sports and 
especially loved throwing the shot put and discus in track where she 
held the Decatur Community High School records for many years and earned
 two state medals before graduating from DCHS in 1981.
 On February 21, 1982, Jody married the love of her life and high 
school sweet-heart, Kenny Black. They lived their married life in 
Oberlin and were blessed with two amazing children, Chelsey, and Jobey. 
Vacations were something very important to her and she planned a family 
getaway each summer. She and Kenny also spent weekends at their trailer 
at Red Willow Lake north of McCook and entertained many relatives and 
friends over the years but the best memories were spent with their kids 
and especially their grandchildren, Paisley, Taydem, Kreightyn and 
Nashlynn. They had many fun weekends fishing, boating, skiing, tubing, 
going for walks and making s’mores.

Jody and Kenny loved to fish and 
their vacations without the kids usually included a fishing trip in 
places like San Francisco Bay, the Pacific Ocean and on the Columbia 
River in Oregon where they caught huge sturgeon. Jody loved to travel 
and persuaded Kenny to drive several times to the west coast to her 
favorite destination, The Oregon Coast and had also driven to the east 
coast to visit Cape Cod, New York City, Boston, and Canada accompanied 
by her sister Char who often traveled with them. She often invited 
younger sister Sandi or one of her nieces to accompany them on vacation.
 Kenny and Jody raised Labrador Retrievers for many years, and she 
loved spending weekends at HRC Hunt Tests and was especially proud when 
Kenny earned his first championship title. Paisley and Taydem went with 
them and decided they could do what Grandpa did needless to say she was a
 very proud Grandma when they both earned their started titles on their 
pups.

Jody had a career in banking that spanned over 40 years beginning
 her senior year of high school she started as a teller/bookkeeper and 
later a Consumer Loan Officer for Farmers National Bank in Oberlin where
 she worked until they sold. She and a coworker/ friend Mick Glaze 
successfully convinced the Atwood banker Barney Horton to start a branch
 of Farmer Bank &amp; Trust in Oberlin which she served as Branch 
Manager and COO for 18 years before deciding she needed a new challenge 
and began as a Residential Real-estate Lender at MNB Bank in McCook 
where she was working at the time of her death. She cherished the 
friendships she’d made while working at those institutions and stayed 
close over the years with many co-workers. Jody enjoyed decorating and 
flower arranging and loved to share her talent with others especially 
her family and friends. She was a very private person and her best 
friend of many years, Jane Gilliam, after many futile attempts finally 
gave up trying to get her to join social clubs.
 Jody is survived by her husband, Kenny Black, Oberlin, daughter, 
Chelsey and Leigh Zodrow, Arapahoe, NE, son, Jobey and Kylee Black, 
Phillipsburg, KS, grandchildren, Paisley, Taydem and Kreightyn Zodrow 
and Nashlynn Black. Siblings, Charlene Springer, Lebanon, NE, Mike 
(Jacque) Elwood Hickman, NE, Danny Elwood, Oberlin, KS, Susan Wilson, 
Omaha, NE, Kyle (Jill) Elwood, Salina, KS and Sandi (Monty) McLain, 
Perryton, TX. In-Laws, Sharon Black, sister-in-laws, Jean (Byron) Hale 
and Carla (David) Depperschmidt all of Oberlin, KS as well as many 
nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

She was 
preceded in death by her parents Neal and Norma Elwood, grandparents, 
Henry and Grace Michals, Tom and Florence Elwood and brother-in-law Lyle
 Springer, father-in-law Lyman Black.
 Funeral services will be held on June 23, 2022, at 10:00 AM at the 
United Methodist Church of Oberlin. Visitation will be on June 22, 2022,&nbsp; from 1:00 - 7:00 PM at Pauls Funeral Home with family receiving guests 
from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. Burial will be in Oberlin Cemetery. Memorial 
contributions may be made to United Methodist Church of Oberlin. 
Condolences can be left at www.paulsfh.com.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655754772731.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jody Lee (Elwood) Black was born on July 23, 1963, to Robert Neal and 
Norma Jean (Michals) Elwood in McCook, Nebraska and gained her wings on 
June 20, 2022, at the age of 58. 
 She grew up on a farm outside of Wilsonville, Nebraska, with her 6 
siblings where you’d find her outside most of the time riding horses, 
tantalizing her sister Susan with cats, helping her mom and sisters 
dress chickens, and playing with the animals especially the German 
Shepard puppies her mom would raise. She avoided inside chores as much 
as possible. During the summer, it was her and younger brother Kyle’s 
job to bring the milk cows from the pasture every afternoon and take 
them back across the creek to pasture the next morning. She had many 
fond memories growing up on the farm and had said many times she wished 
her kids could have been so lucky. 
 She attended K-7th grade in Wilsonville baptized at the Christian 
Church of Wilsonville before transferring her membership to the United 
Methodist Church in Oberlin where her family moved in 1976. Her faith 
was very important to her and gave her great comfort during her years of
 dealing with kidney cancer. She participated in all sports and 
especially loved throwing the shot put and discus in track where she 
held the Decatur Community High School records for many years and earned
 two state medals before graduating from DCHS in 1981.
 On February 21, 1982, Jody married the love of her life and high 
school sweet-heart, Kenny Black. They lived their married life in 
Oberlin and were blessed with two amazing children, Chelsey, and Jobey. 
Vacations were something very important to her and she planned a family 
getaway each summer. She and Kenny also spent weekends at their trailer 
at Red Willow Lake north of McCook and entertained many relatives and 
friends over the years but the best memories were spent with their kids 
and especially their grandchildren, Paisley, Taydem, Kreightyn and 
Nashlynn. They had many fun weekends fishing, boating, skiing, tubing, 
going for walks and making s’mores. Jody and Kenny loved to fish and 
their vacations without the kids usually included a fishing trip in 
places like San Francisco Bay, the Pacific Ocean and on the Columbia 
River in Oregon where they caught huge sturgeon. Jody loved to travel 
and persuaded Kenny to drive several times to the west coast to her 
favorite destination, The Oregon Coast and had also driven to the east 
coast to visit Cape Cod, New York City, Boston, and Canada accompanied 
by her sister Char who often traveled with them. She often invited 
younger sister Sandi or one of her nieces to accompany them on vacation.
 Kenny and Jody raised Labrador Retrievers for many years, and she 
loved spending weekends at HRC Hunt Tests and was especially proud when 
Kenny earned his first championship title. Paisley and Taydem went with 
them and decided they could do what Grandpa did needless to say she was a
 very proud Grandma when they both earned their started titles on their 
pups. Jody had a career in banking that spanned over 40 years beginning
 her senior year of high school she started as a teller/bookkeeper and 
later a Consumer Loan Officer for Farmers National Bank in Oberlin where
 she worked until they sold. She and a coworker/ friend Mick Glaze 
successfully convinced the Atwood banker Barney Horton to start a branch
 of Farmer Bank &amp; Trust in Oberlin which she served as Branch 
Manager and COO for 18 years before deciding she needed a new challenge 
and began as a Residential Real-estate Lender at MNB Bank in McCook 
where she was working at the time of her death. She cherished the 
friendships she’d made while working at those institutions and stayed 
close over the years with many co-workers. Jody enjoyed decorating and 
flower arranging and loved to share her talent with others especially 
her family and friends. She was a very private person and her best 
friend of many years, Jane Gilliam, after many futile attempts finally 
gave up trying to get her to join social clubs.
 Jody is survived by her husband, Kenny Black, Oberlin, daughter, 
Chelsey and Leigh Zodrow, Arapahoe, NE, son, Jobey and Kylee Black, 
Phillipsburg, KS, grandchildren, Paisley, Taydem and Kreightyn Zodrow 
and Nashlynn Black. Siblings, Charlene Springer, Lebanon, NE, Mike 
(Jacque) Elwood Hickman, NE, Danny Elwood, Oberlin, KS, Susan Wilson, 
Omaha, NE, Kyle (Jill) Elwood, Salina, KS and Sandi (Monty) McLain, 
Perryton, TX. In-Laws, Sharon Black, sister-in-laws, Jean (Byron) Hale 
and Carla (David) Depperschmidt all of Oberlin, KS as well as many 
nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. She was 
preceded in death by her parents Neal and Norma Elwood, grandparents, 
Henry and Grace Michals, Tom and Florence Elwood and brother-in-law Lyle
 Springer, father-in-law Lyman Black.
 Funeral services will be held on June 23, 2022, at 10:00 AM at the 
United Methodist Church of Oberlin. Visitation will be on June 22, 2022,&nbsp; from 1:00 - 7:00 PM at Pauls Funeral Home with family receiving guests 
from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. Burial will be in Oberlin Cemetery. Memorial 
contributions may be made to United Methodist Church of Oberlin. 
Condolences can be left at www.paulsfh.com.&nbsp;

Jody Lee Black

David Edwin Reuber, 64, passed away on Saturday, June 18, 2022, in 
Atwood, Kansas. David was born to Eugene and JoAnn Reuber on January 
16, 1958. 
David was a beloved father, grandfather, son, and friend to all. 
David's passions in life were his kids, grandkids, his faith, playing 
cards, watching sports, cooking, reading, old westerns, and helping 
others. David owned and operated Reuber Construction for over 30 years 
and was always there to lend his advice to any project. 
He was preceded in death by his father Eugene Reuber. 
David is survived by his six children, Trisha (Bryan) Slough, of 
Lawrence, KS, Talia Brown, of Ottawa, KS, Tucker (Christie) Reuber, of 
Belton, TX, Tessa (Sam) Reuber, of Arvada, CO, Trinity (Bart) Ginther, 
of Dalhart, TX and Tasia (Andrew) Straker, of Carrollton, GA; 13 
grandchildren Stella, Frankie, Oscar, Skylar, Addyson, Grady, Cailynn, 
Kaylee, Kadee, Bridger, Leo, Silas, and Iyla on the way; his mother 
JoAnn and siblings. 
Services will be held at the Sacred Heart Church in Atwood, Kansas on 
Wednesday, June 22, 2022 at 10:00 am, with burial in the Rose Hill 
Cemetery, Ludell, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to 
the David Reuber Memorial Fund and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO
 Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or to leave condolences, visit
 www.baalmannmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655666550978.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>David Edwin Reuber, 64, passed away on Saturday, June 18, 2022, in 
Atwood, Kansas. David was born to Eugene and JoAnn Reuber on January 
16, 1958. 
David was a beloved father, grandfather, son, and friend to all. 
David's passions in life were his kids, grandkids, his faith, playing 
cards, watching sports, cooking, reading, old westerns, and helping 
others. David owned and operated Reuber Construction for over 30 years 
and was always there to lend his advice to any project. 
He was preceded in death by his father Eugene Reuber. 
David is survived by his six children, Trisha (Bryan) Slough, of 
Lawrence, KS, Talia Brown, of Ottawa, KS, Tucker (Christie) Reuber, of 
Belton, TX, Tessa (Sam) Reuber, of Arvada, CO, Trinity (Bart) Ginther, 
of Dalhart, TX and Tasia (Andrew) Straker, of Carrollton, GA; 13 
grandchildren Stella, Frankie, Oscar, Skylar, Addyson, Grady, Cailynn, 
Kaylee, Kadee, Bridger, Leo, Silas, and Iyla on the way; his mother 
JoAnn and siblings. 
Services will be held at the Sacred Heart Church in Atwood, Kansas on 
Wednesday, June 22, 2022 at 10:00 am, with burial in the Rose Hill 
Cemetery, Ludell, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to 
the David Reuber Memorial Fund and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO
 Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or to leave condolences, visit
 www.baalmannmortuary.com.

David Edwin Reuber

Larry A. Nelson of Evergreen, Colorado, passed away on April 6, 2022,&nbsp; in Evergreen. Larry was born on January 22, 1938, to Martin A. and 
Gladys B. (Collins) Nelson of Ruleton, Kansas. Larry was the eldest of 
six siblings, Leonard, Janice, Judy, Joyce and Lynn. He attended school 
in Ruleton, Wichita and Goodland and graduated in 1956 from Sherman 
County High School. Although flying as early as 9 with his father, Larry
 earned his pilot’s license while attending high school.

Larry went to Kansas State University where he studied Biology and 
joined the Air Force ROTC program. He was a member of Acacia Fraternity.
 After graduating from Kansas State, he joined the Air Force where he 
became a pilot instructor. He instructed at Moody Air Force base in 
Georgia. Planes he instructed in were the T-37 primary trainer, T-33 
advanced trainer and the T-38. After 5 ½ years in the Air Force, Larry 
took a position with continental Airlines on the West Coast and flew 
Boeing aircraft 727 and 707 on continental and intercontinental flights.
 With a base transfer to Stapleton, Larry moved to Evergreen, Colorado, 
where he spent 50 years enjoying the mountains, fishing, hunting, and 
skiing. Larry retired from Continental Airlines in 1999 after 33 years. 
In retirement Larry purchased a 1946 J3 Cub aircraft where has no 
electrical system or radios. This was a similar airplane to the one his 
father, Martin taught him to fly during his high school years.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents.

Larry is survived by his wife Janice Park Nelson and his children, 
Mark, Todd (Sarah) Martine (Chuck Lee), Matt (Debra), and 7 
grandchildren; his siblings, Leonard (Lorna), Janice (George Robert 
Dempsey), Judy Marturano, Joyce (Richard Jones), Lynn (Cynthia), and 
Uncle Carl Nelson, and nephews, nieces, and cousins.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655748716352.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Larry A. Nelson of Evergreen, Colorado, passed away on April 6, 2022,&nbsp; in Evergreen. Larry was born on January 22, 1938, to Martin A. and 
Gladys B. (Collins) Nelson of Ruleton, Kansas. Larry was the eldest of 
six siblings, Leonard, Janice, Judy, Joyce and Lynn. He attended school 
in Ruleton, Wichita and Goodland and graduated in 1956 from Sherman 
County High School. Although flying as early as 9 with his father, Larry
 earned his pilot’s license while attending high school.Larry went to Kansas State University where he studied Biology and 
joined the Air Force ROTC program. He was a member of Acacia Fraternity.
 After graduating from Kansas State, he joined the Air Force where he 
became a pilot instructor. He instructed at Moody Air Force base in 
Georgia. Planes he instructed in were the T-37 primary trainer, T-33 
advanced trainer and the T-38. After 5 ½ years in the Air Force, Larry 
took a position with continental Airlines on the West Coast and flew 
Boeing aircraft 727 and 707 on continental and intercontinental flights.
 With a base transfer to Stapleton, Larry moved to Evergreen, Colorado, 
where he spent 50 years enjoying the mountains, fishing, hunting, and 
skiing. Larry retired from Continental Airlines in 1999 after 33 years. 
In retirement Larry purchased a 1946 J3 Cub aircraft where has no 
electrical system or radios. This was a similar airplane to the one his 
father, Martin taught him to fly during his high school years.Larry was preceded in death by his parents.Larry is survived by his wife Janice Park Nelson and his children, 
Mark, Todd (Sarah) Martine (Chuck Lee), Matt (Debra), and 7 
grandchildren; his siblings, Leonard (Lorna), Janice (George Robert 
Dempsey), Judy Marturano, Joyce (Richard Jones), Lynn (Cynthia), and 
Uncle Carl Nelson, and nephews, nieces, and cousins.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Larry-Nelson">HERE</a> for service details.

Larry A. Nelson

Riley Jo Bieberle,&nbsp;was born on June 17, 2022, in Merriam, Kan., the 
infant daughter of Ryan and Kelsey (LaRocco) Bieberle. She passed away 
peacefully with her loving parents by her side at Advent Health – 
Shawnee Misson in Merriam, Kan., on Friday, June 17, 2022.

While only here with us on Earth for a short time, precious memories 
were made with Riley Jo, surrounded by love from family both far and 
near. Through her passing due to complications due to Trisomy 18, she 
was able to bring awareness and add a perfect little face to the affect,
 not just a diagnosis. Her family is at great peace knowing she is in 
heaven, was greatly loved, and will forever cherish the 35 weeks and 
time in the hospital with her.

Survivors include her parents; grandparents, Amy Wright of Overland 
Park, Kan., Mike (Kathy) Crellin of Olathe, Kan., Glen and Starla 
Bieberle of Hoisington, Kan.; great-grandparents, Jim and Cindi LaRocco 
of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, Viola Glanville of Great Bend, Kans.; and 
numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is preceded in death by a 
grandfather, Tony LaRocco; and great-grandparents, Leonard and June 
Wright, Harold Glanville, Gilbert Bieberle, Dolores and Jim Westbrook, 
and Grandma Perez.

A private family service has been scheduled. Memorials have been 
designated to the Choices Medical Clinic, in care of Nicholson-Ricke 
Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

Riley Jo Bieberle,&nbsp;was born on June 17, 2022, in Merriam, Kan., the 
infant daughter of Ryan and Kelsey (LaRocco) Bieberle. She passed away 
peacefully with her loving parents by her side at Advent Health – 
Shawnee Misson in Merriam, Kan., on Friday, June 17, 2022.While only here with us on Earth for a short time, precious memories 
were made with Riley Jo, surrounded by love from family both far and 
near. Through her passing due to complications due to Trisomy 18, she 
was able to bring awareness and add a perfect little face to the affect,
 not just a diagnosis. Her family is at great peace knowing she is in 
heaven, was greatly loved, and will forever cherish the 35 weeks and 
time in the hospital with her.Survivors include her parents; grandparents, Amy Wright of Overland 
Park, Kan., Mike (Kathy) Crellin of Olathe, Kan., Glen and Starla 
Bieberle of Hoisington, Kan.; great-grandparents, Jim and Cindi LaRocco 
of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, Viola Glanville of Great Bend, Kans.; and 
numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is preceded in death by a 
grandfather, Tony LaRocco; and great-grandparents, Leonard and June 
Wright, Harold Glanville, Gilbert Bieberle, Dolores and Jim Westbrook, 
and Grandma Perez.A private family service has been scheduled. Memorials have been 
designated to the Choices Medical Clinic, in care of Nicholson-Ricke 
Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

Riley Jo Bieberle

Curtis Jay Schmidt, age 45, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Thursday, June 16, 2022, in Hays. He was born March 15, 1977, in Hays to Timothy and Esther (Burgardt) Schmidt. Curtis graduated from TMP-Marian High School in 1995 and obtained a MS from Fort Hays State University. On October 4, 2003, he married Amanda VanCampen in Victoria. Curtis was the Zoological Collections Manager at Sternberg Museum of Natural History in Hays. He was also an Adjunct Faculty Instructor at Fort Hays State University and Environmental Scientist at JTC Enterprises. He was a member of the Optimist Club of Hays currently serving as president, a member of the Kansas Herpetological Society having served as a past president and a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hays. Curtis truly loved his work and sharing his knowledge with others. His passion for the natural world came through with the enthusiasm he brought to teaching others, especially about reptiles, small mammals, and nature conservation.&nbsp; Being with animals and nature brought him great joy. He enjoyed caring for his animals and pets, walking his dogs, and he was often heard saying he was “Going Herping.” True to Curtis’s compassion and love for life through his passing he saved and enhanced numerous lives through organ, eye and tissue donation. Curtis is survived by his Wife, Amanda; daughter, Avery; step son, Jonathan VanCampen all of the home in Hays; his father, Timothy Schmidt of Hays; his sister, Leslie Karlin and husband David of Hays as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Esther and sister, Tammie; and a brother-in-law, Ted VanCampen. Live Streaming of services will be available through the funeral home website.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;then select Facebook Live. Funeral services are 10:30 AM Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church 215 W. 13th Hays, Kansas. Memorial visitation will be Tuesday 6 PM - 8 PM with a combined parish vigil and rosary service at 7 PM all at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601. Memorial contributions made payable to the Avery Schmidt Education Fund may be sent in care of Keithley Funeral Homes, PO Box 86, Hays, KS 67601. Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655744098334.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Curtis Jay Schmidt, age 45, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Thursday, June 16, 2022, in Hays. He was born March 15, 1977, in Hays to Timothy and Esther (Burgardt) Schmidt. Curtis graduated from TMP-Marian High School in 1995 and obtained a MS from Fort Hays State University. On October 4, 2003, he married Amanda VanCampen in Victoria. Curtis was the Zoological Collections Manager at Sternberg Museum of Natural History in Hays. He was also an Adjunct Faculty Instructor at Fort Hays State University and Environmental Scientist at JTC Enterprises. He was a member of the Optimist Club of Hays currently serving as president, a member of the Kansas Herpetological Society having served as a past president and a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hays. Curtis truly loved his work and sharing his knowledge with others. His passion for the natural world came through with the enthusiasm he brought to teaching others, especially about reptiles, small mammals, and nature conservation.&nbsp; Being with animals and nature brought him great joy. He enjoyed caring for his animals and pets, walking his dogs, and he was often heard saying he was “Going Herping.” True to Curtis’s compassion and love for life through his passing he saved and enhanced numerous lives through organ, eye and tissue donation. Curtis is survived by his Wife, Amanda; daughter, Avery; step son, Jonathan VanCampen all of the home in Hays; his father, Timothy Schmidt of Hays; his sister, Leslie Karlin and husband David of Hays as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Esther and sister, Tammie; and a brother-in-law, Ted VanCampen. Live Streaming of services will be available through the funeral home website.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;then select Facebook Live. Funeral services are 10:30 AM Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church 215 W. 13th Hays, Kansas. Memorial visitation will be Tuesday 6 PM - 8 PM with a combined parish vigil and rosary service at 7 PM all at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601. Memorial contributions made payable to the Avery Schmidt Education Fund may be sent in care of Keithley Funeral Homes, PO Box 86, Hays, KS 67601. Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>

Curtis Jay Schmidt

Charlene Flax, age 78, of Ellis passed away Sunday, June 19, 2022, at Trego Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney. Funeral services will be 10 AM Thursday, June 23, 2022, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Ellis with Fr. Dana Clark officiating. Burial will follow services in the St. Mary's Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday 6 PM - 8 PM and Thursday 9 AM until service time all at the church. A combined Daughters of Isabella rosary and parish vigil will be Wednesday at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Mary's Cemetery Fund. Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a> A complete obituary will be provided by Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655739611611.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Charlene Flax, age 78, of Ellis passed away Sunday, June 19, 2022, at Trego Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney. Funeral services will be 10 AM Thursday, June 23, 2022, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Ellis with Fr. Dana Clark officiating. Burial will follow services in the St. Mary's Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday 6 PM - 8 PM and Thursday 9 AM until service time all at the church. A combined Daughters of Isabella rosary and parish vigil will be Wednesday at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Mary's Cemetery Fund. Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a> A complete obituary will be provided by Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67601.

Charlene Flax

Newell E. “Sam” Jones, 79, died unexpectedly on June 13, 2022, at the 
Pensacola Baptist Hospital. He was born April 21, 1943, in Kansas, the 
son of Earl and Mildred Jones. 
Sam graduated from Colby High School, Class of 1958. Following 
graduation, he served in the United States Navy, deploying to conflicts 
in Vietnam and Libya as an Aviation Warfare Specialist and a broadening 
assignment with the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, The Blue 
Angels in Pensacola, Florida. He retired from the Navy in August of 
1990, after 30 years of honorable service, at which point he was one of 
the first enlisted Sailors to receive the Meritorious Service Medal. Sam
 was a loyal member of the VFM, Shriners Hospital for 
Children, Masonic Lodge, and a Blue Angel Alumni. In 2006 he married his
 wife Lavilla Deloviar, settling in Pensacola, Florida. They would have 
been celebrating 16 years of marriage on June 26. 
He is survived by his wife Lavilla Deloviar Jones, his son Sammy Earl 
Jones, his step daughters Cheska Deloviar, Shalatelle Deloviar, Marisol 
Crews, and Ivette Pruett, grandsons Quinton Moody, Zachary Birney, Liam 
Deloviar Jones, and granddaughters Marissa Brewer, Megan Moody Brown, 
and Brianna Birney. Ma. In addition, he is survived by his brother 
Richard Jones and sisters Lorraine Kilgore, Kathleen Sirota, and Linda 
Kistler. 
A remembrance service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at 
Oak Lawn Funeral Home, Pensacola, FL 32506, followed by a visitation 
beginning at 1 p.m. Friday, June 24, 2022, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby 
with burial at 2:00 p.m. at Beulah Cemetery, Colby, with full Military 
Honors.

For information or condolences, visit www.baalmannmortuary.com. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655736227878.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Newell E. “Sam” Jones, 79, died unexpectedly on June 13, 2022, at the 
Pensacola Baptist Hospital. He was born April 21, 1943, in Kansas, the 
son of Earl and Mildred Jones. 
Sam graduated from Colby High School, Class of 1958. Following 
graduation, he served in the United States Navy, deploying to conflicts 
in Vietnam and Libya as an Aviation Warfare Specialist and a broadening 
assignment with the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, The Blue 
Angels in Pensacola, Florida. He retired from the Navy in August of 
1990, after 30 years of honorable service, at which point he was one of 
the first enlisted Sailors to receive the Meritorious Service Medal. Sam
 was a loyal member of the VFM, Shriners Hospital for 
Children, Masonic Lodge, and a Blue Angel Alumni. In 2006 he married his
 wife Lavilla Deloviar, settling in Pensacola, Florida. They would have 
been celebrating 16 years of marriage on June 26. 
He is survived by his wife Lavilla Deloviar Jones, his son Sammy Earl 
Jones, his step daughters Cheska Deloviar, Shalatelle Deloviar, Marisol 
Crews, and Ivette Pruett, grandsons Quinton Moody, Zachary Birney, Liam 
Deloviar Jones, and granddaughters Marissa Brewer, Megan Moody Brown, 
and Brianna Birney. Ma. In addition, he is survived by his brother 
Richard Jones and sisters Lorraine Kilgore, Kathleen Sirota, and Linda 
Kistler. 
A remembrance service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at 
Oak Lawn Funeral Home, Pensacola, FL 32506, followed by a visitation 
beginning at 1 p.m. Friday, June 24, 2022, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby 
with burial at 2:00 p.m. at Beulah Cemetery, Colby, with full Military 
Honors. For information or condolences, visit www.baalmannmortuary.com. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Newell E. 'Sam' Jones

Richard
 Wayne Winter, age 62, died at his home on June 18, 2022. He was born on
 March 4, 1960, in Marion, Kansas the son of Donald and Judith (Cogdill) 
Winter.

Funeral
 service will be held on Thursday, June 2022, 10:30 a.m. at the United 
Methodist Church, Ness City, followed by burial in the Ness City 
Cemetery. Viewing will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on Wednesday 
from 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. with the family present from 7:00 until 
9:00 that evening.

Memorial
 contributions may be given to the Marley and Maggie Winter Education 
Fund. Memories and words of support may be left for the family at 
www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

Richard
 Wayne Winter, age 62, died at his home on June 18, 2022. He was born on
 March 4, 1960, in Marion, Kansas the son of Donald and Judith (Cogdill) 
Winter.Funeral
 service will be held on Thursday, June 2022, 10:30 a.m. at the United 
Methodist Church, Ness City, followed by burial in the Ness City 
Cemetery. Viewing will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on Wednesday 
from 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. with the family present from 7:00 until 
9:00 that evening.Memorial
 contributions may be given to the Marley and Maggie Winter Education 
Fund. Memories and words of support may be left for the family at 
www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

Richard Wayne Winter

March 16, 1923
 -
 June 18, 2022

An obituary is pending with Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home.

Click <a href="https://www.mickeyleopoldfuneral.com/obituaries/Doreen-Elizabeth-Wagoner-Kennedy?obId=25154536#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

March 16, 1923
 -
 June 18, 2022An obituary is pending with Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home.Click <a href="https://www.mickeyleopoldfuneral.com/obituaries/Doreen-Elizabeth-Wagoner-Kennedy?obId=25154536#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Molly Faye Blair, 65, passed away June 18, 2022, at University Of 
Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, Great Bend.&nbsp; She was born 
August 5, 1956, in Great Bend, to George and Effie (Larkin) Blair.

Molly, a longtime resident of Great Bend and Albert, was a faithful 
22-year employee of Walmart, serving as a stocker and checking clerk.&nbsp; 
She attended Heartland Community Church, was a former member of the 
American Legion Riders Post #180, and enjoyed diamond art and, in the 
past, riding her motorcycle with her twin sister, Polly.&nbsp; In recent 
years, Molly and Polly provided day care for Baen Hamilton, who they 
have loved like their own.

Survivors include two brothers, Billy R. Blair and wife Gene of 
Salina, and Roger J. Blair and wife Jacque of Scott City; and two 
sisters Linda K. Worley and husband Mark of Pomona, and twin sister, 
Polly G. Blair of Great Bend; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and
 nephews, and many cousins, including Stacey Tiede of Great Bend.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 21, 2022, 
at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Troy Miller presiding.&nbsp; Interment 
will follow at Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend.&nbsp; Visitation will be from
 2:00 to 8:00 p.m., Monday, June 20, at Bryant Funeral Home, with the 
family receiving friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; 

Memorials may be given 
to Heartland Community Church or American Diabetes Association, in care 
of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS&nbsp; 67530.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655729642800.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Molly Faye Blair, 65, passed away June 18, 2022, at University Of 
Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, Great Bend.&nbsp; She was born 
August 5, 1956, in Great Bend, to George and Effie (Larkin) Blair.Molly, a longtime resident of Great Bend and Albert, was a faithful 
22-year employee of Walmart, serving as a stocker and checking clerk.&nbsp; 
She attended Heartland Community Church, was a former member of the 
American Legion Riders Post #180, and enjoyed diamond art and, in the 
past, riding her motorcycle with her twin sister, Polly.&nbsp; In recent 
years, Molly and Polly provided day care for Baen Hamilton, who they 
have loved like their own.Survivors include two brothers, Billy R. Blair and wife Gene of 
Salina, and Roger J. Blair and wife Jacque of Scott City; and two 
sisters Linda K. Worley and husband Mark of Pomona, and twin sister, 
Polly G. Blair of Great Bend; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and
 nephews, and many cousins, including Stacey Tiede of Great Bend.Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 21, 2022, 
at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Troy Miller presiding.&nbsp; Interment 
will follow at Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend.&nbsp; Visitation will be from
 2:00 to 8:00 p.m., Monday, June 20, at Bryant Funeral Home, with the 
family receiving friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Memorials may be given 
to Heartland Community Church or American Diabetes Association, in care 
of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS&nbsp; 67530.

Molly Faye Blair

Eldon E. Dohe, age 82, passed away Friday, June 17, 2022, at the Smith 
County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, KS. He was born May 24, 1940,&nbsp; in Smith County, KS to Harold and Naomi (Hartsook) Dohe.  He was a 
farmer.

Eldon is survived by his sister Ava Woods of Melbourne, FL.

Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Eldon-E.-Dohe?obId=25154166#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655729616411.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eldon E. Dohe, age 82, passed away Friday, June 17, 2022, at the Smith 
County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, KS. He was born May 24, 1940,&nbsp; in Smith County, KS to Harold and Naomi (Hartsook) Dohe. He was a 
farmer.Eldon is survived by his sister Ava Woods of Melbourne, FL.Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Eldon-E.-Dohe?obId=25154166#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Eldon E. Dohe

Agnes Mae Schrant, 90, longtime Hays resident, died Friday, June 17, 2022, at Brandon Woods at Alvamar in Lawrence.

Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.

Agnes Mae Schrant, 90, longtime Hays resident, died Friday, June 17, 2022, at Brandon Woods at Alvamar in Lawrence.Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.

Agnes Mae Schrant

Harold L.R. “Corky” Johnson passed away on June 16, 2022. He was born to Chester and Josephine (Heisz) Johnson on June 17, 1928, in rural Graham County KS.

He attended the Happy Home one room school and grew up on the farm. Early days he worked farms, dairies, and feedlots.  He joined the army in1955 and was honorably discharged Specialist Third Class in 1957.

In 1965, while working in a Colorado dairy, he met and married Sherril Joan Kennedy. The couple moved to Lenora, KS and together raised 7 children Rebecca, James Martin, Robert, Susan, Vivian, Patsy and Ginger.

He began auctioneering in the 1950s and graduated “Colonel” from the Fort Smith Arkansas Auction School in 1970. He then started Johnson Auction Service. He worked for 24 years for Norton County from 1967 until retirement in 1991, most of that time operating a road grader. Many people in area called on “Cork” to plow their road or perform an auction. 

He loved animals and hobby farming. Through the years he had cattle, horses, pigs, goats, bucket calves, ducks, geese and chickens. He had a rooster that ate out of his pocket and cattle that came when he called their names. He professed love for farm auctions, vintage tractors and the sale barn. 

He was preceded in death by his loving wife Sherry; parents, Chet and Josie; a brother Wilber; three sisters Alice, Patricia and Lela and one son James Martin.

He is survived by 2 sisters, Glenda Stephen and Esther Headley; 6 children, Rebecca Rodriguez, Robert Holmes, Susan Bliss, Vivian Dietz, Patsy Gunn, Ginger Pursell, 16 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. 

Service will be held at Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. with Pastor Troy Buss officiating.  Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery, Phillipsburg.

Mr. Johnson will lie in state from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, KS, with family receiving friends from 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. that evening for visitation.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Logan Manor Community Health Services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655666770922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Harold L.R. “Corky” Johnson passed away on June 16, 2022. He was born to Chester and Josephine (Heisz) Johnson on June 17, 1928, in rural Graham County KS.He attended the Happy Home one room school and grew up on the farm. Early days he worked farms, dairies, and feedlots. He joined the army in1955 and was honorably discharged Specialist Third Class in 1957.In 1965, while working in a Colorado dairy, he met and married Sherril Joan Kennedy. The couple moved to Lenora, KS and together raised 7 children Rebecca, James Martin, Robert, Susan, Vivian, Patsy and Ginger.He began auctioneering in the 1950s and graduated “Colonel” from the Fort Smith Arkansas Auction School in 1970. He then started Johnson Auction Service. He worked for 24 years for Norton County from 1967 until retirement in 1991, most of that time operating a road grader. Many people in area called on “Cork” to plow their road or perform an auction. He loved animals and hobby farming. Through the years he had cattle, horses, pigs, goats, bucket calves, ducks, geese and chickens. He had a rooster that ate out of his pocket and cattle that came when he called their names. He professed love for farm auctions, vintage tractors and the sale barn. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Sherry; parents, Chet and Josie; a brother Wilber; three sisters Alice, Patricia and Lela and one son James Martin.He is survived by 2 sisters, Glenda Stephen and Esther Headley; 6 children, Rebecca Rodriguez, Robert Holmes, Susan Bliss, Vivian Dietz, Patsy Gunn, Ginger Pursell, 16 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. Service will be held at Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. with Pastor Troy Buss officiating. Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery, Phillipsburg.Mr. Johnson will lie in state from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, KS, with family receiving friends from 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. that evening for visitation.Memorial Contributions may be made to Logan Manor Community Health Services.

Harold L.R. 'Corky' Johnson

Phillipsburg resident John Mark Jarvis passed away on Friday, June 17, 2022, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, NE at the age of 62.

John was born May 18, 1960, in Baldwin, Alabama.  He served in the Army National Guard.

He was united in marriage to Konnie Hales on May 19, 2007, in Wichita, KS.

Survivors include his parents Wendell and Beverly (Babcock) Jarvis of Phillipsburg; his wife Konnie Jarvis of Phillipsburg; 3 step-sons Christopher Smith and Brian Smith both of Wichita, and Jason Smith and wife Christie of Rose Hill, KS; 2 step-daughters Stacie Washington and husband Darryl of Oklahoma City, OK and Sandra Bogart and husband Fred of Wichita; 2 brothers Stuart Jarvis and wife Donna and Shane Jarvis and fiance' Angie all of Phillipsburg; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 23, 2022, in the First Christian Church in Phillipsburg, KS with Pastor LeRoy Herder officiating.  The service will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page.  Burial with military honors will follow in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Phillips County.

Mr. Jarvis will lie in state from 5:00 until 9:00 p.m. Tuesday and 12:00 until 9:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, where the family will receive friends from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. Wednesday evening for visitation.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Christian Church or the Phillipsburg Elementary School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655666690722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Phillipsburg resident John Mark Jarvis passed away on Friday, June 17, 2022, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, NE at the age of 62.John was born May 18, 1960, in Baldwin, Alabama. He served in the Army National Guard.He was united in marriage to Konnie Hales on May 19, 2007, in Wichita, KS.Survivors include his parents Wendell and Beverly (Babcock) Jarvis of Phillipsburg; his wife Konnie Jarvis of Phillipsburg; 3 step-sons Christopher Smith and Brian Smith both of Wichita, and Jason Smith and wife Christie of Rose Hill, KS; 2 step-daughters Stacie Washington and husband Darryl of Oklahoma City, OK and Sandra Bogart and husband Fred of Wichita; 2 brothers Stuart Jarvis and wife Donna and Shane Jarvis and fiance' Angie all of Phillipsburg; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 23, 2022, in the First Christian Church in Phillipsburg, KS with Pastor LeRoy Herder officiating. The service will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page. Burial with military honors will follow in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Phillips County.Mr. Jarvis will lie in state from 5:00 until 9:00 p.m. Tuesday and 12:00 until 9:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, where the family will receive friends from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. Wednesday evening for visitation.Memorial contributions may be made to the First Christian Church or the Phillipsburg Elementary School.

John Mark Jarvis

Shirley Marie Vance, 85, of Rexford, died Thursday, June 16, 2022, at 
Citizens Medical Center, in Colby. She was born March 30, 1937, in Smith
 Center, KS, to Allen and Eva (Zade) Mullin. Shirley married Vernon 
Vance on December 5, 1964, in Phillipsburg, KS and to this union three 
children were born. In 1974, the family moved from Phillipsburg, to 
Rexford, KS. Shirley enjoyed painting, reading, and gambling. 
She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Della Hansen. 
Shirley is survived by her husband Vernon; children, Dennis Vance, 
Vickie (Mike) Egner, and Brian (Teresa) Vance; brother Victor Mullin; 
eight grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Monday, June 20, 2022, at Baalmann Mortuary, 
Colby. Funeral Service is 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at the 
Rexford Community Church, Rexford, KS, with burial in the Rexford 
Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Rexford Community Church and sent
 in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For 
information or to leave online condolences visit 
www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Shirley Marie Vance, 85, of Rexford, died Thursday, June 16, 2022, at 
Citizens Medical Center, in Colby. She was born March 30, 1937, in Smith
 Center, KS, to Allen and Eva (Zade) Mullin. Shirley married Vernon 
Vance on December 5, 1964, in Phillipsburg, KS and to this union three 
children were born. In 1974, the family moved from Phillipsburg, to 
Rexford, KS. Shirley enjoyed painting, reading, and gambling. 
She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Della Hansen. 
Shirley is survived by her husband Vernon; children, Dennis Vance, 
Vickie (Mike) Egner, and Brian (Teresa) Vance; brother Victor Mullin; 
eight grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Monday, June 20, 2022, at Baalmann Mortuary, 
Colby. Funeral Service is 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at the 
Rexford Community Church, Rexford, KS, with burial in the Rexford 
Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Rexford Community Church and sent
 in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For 
information or to leave online condolences visit 
www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Shirley Marie Vance

John Billinger was born August 26, 1933, to Mike and Barbara (Richmeier)
 Billinger of Rural Graham County, Kansas. He passed away from this 
life June 16, 2022, at the age of 88.
 	John was one of 14 children raised on the family farm north of St. 
Peter. Life on the farm instilled the values of Love of God and Church,
 love of family, and the ethics of hard work that was the core of their 
existence. Being one of only four boys born into the family meant that 
John took on much of the responsibility of operating the farm. However, 
all fourteen children worked hard to maintain their life on the farm. 
 	There was always time for some orneriness. John remembered fondly 
the pranks he pulled with his cousins and siblings such as "swiping 
baked goods" and releasing wild rabbits into a relative’s house. The 
family loved card games such as Pitch and Rock, fishing, and playing 
baseball together. Their family went through many tough years of hard 
living, but survived from the land, raising cattle and growing wheat. 
 	John was the first of the children to graduate from high school 
attending Morland High School, in the class of 1952. Shortly afterwards 
he enlisted in the U.S. Army serving as a Private, stationed in France. 
 He was a trained mechanic and was recruited into the Army’s traveling 
baseball team which helped provide entertainment for the troops while 
overseas. 
 	His amazing talent as the team's pitcher carried over into civilian
 life once he returned to Graham County and settled down in Hill City. 
John was playing on a local baseball team, the Hill City Athletics, and 
working in the oil patch when he met "The Love of His Life", Sara Jane 
Biles. Shortly after that set-up first date they were married August 8,
 1959 and started their family. Together John and Sara raised six 
children while he worked as an operator for Central Kansas Power and 
also maintained the St. Peter family farm.
 	John was all about hard work and living a conservative lifestyle. 
He was a devoted son to his parents, and a husband and father who knew 
he had to be a good provider. Besides working his day jobs, he did 
enjoy his hobbies of gardening, yard work fishing, bowling, working on 
cars and keeping all the farm equipment working, welding, and building 
things with his hands. John loved watching the stars and planets 
through his telescope, teaching and playing baseball with his boys, and 
tinkering in his garage on various projects while listening to his polka
 music. 
 	Never wanting to slow down, he kept busy. Work was his life. Trips
 to the farm were a daily activity, Having his boys and eventually his 
grandsons working by his side made John so happy. He taught them all 
about farm life, including how an electric fence "really" worked! His 
promise of supplying all the BB’s for the guns was a sure way to get 
them to the farm with him! John retired from Midwest Energy and worked 
for years as a crop adjustor, before retiring completely to focus on the
 farm and family. 
 	The grandchildren fondly remember his love of popcorn and his dogs,
 his big smile, his tears through uncontrollable laughter, rides on the 
golf cart, his obsession with John Deere tractors, and his simple reply 
of "OK" when they told him they loved him. 
 John was preceded in death by his parents; his son Duane; three 
brothers: Adolph, Pete and Louis; five sisters: Bridget Mann, Lucine 
Horak, Dorothy Fagan, Clara Herman and Elaine Rome. Survivors include 
his wife Sara, Hill City; two sons: Stephen (Lori) Billinger, Ellinwood 
and Mark (Jessica) Billinger, Stockton; three daughters: Debra (Les) 
Burton, Holyrood, Tammy (Dennis) Mersch, Hill City, Saundra (Steven) 
Nickelson, Penokee; five sisters: Carolyn Whittman, Topeka, Agnes Rome, 
Denver, Colorado, Barbara Rome, Denver, Colorado, Mary Anne (Neil) Rome,
 Denver, Colorado and Shirley Kuppetz, Ellis; 18 grandchildren and five 
great grandchildren.
 	 Health issues eventually forced John to quit working entirely. 
Sara, who lovingly called him her "Johnnie B.” provided great care for 
him in their home until it was necessary for family to provide 
additional help. John and Sara's days consisted of caring for their 
dogs, watching their favorite tv shows and sports, endless games of 
Solitaire, tracking the weather, and keeping up with busy family members
 through phone calls and visits. John believed in God's promises of 
giving us glimpses of Heaven on Earth, He treasured all the simple joys 
of life. His nature was one of being very content even though he was 
restricted with very little mobility at the end of his life. He dealt 
with his health situation with great courage and strength His greatest 
joy was being with his wife and family who were blessed to be at his 
side at the moment of death. John will be forever in our hearts and our
 memories. He was greatly loved and will be deeply missed. Eternal rest
 grant unto him, O Lord, and may the Perpetual Light shine upon him. May
 he rest in peace.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Click <a href="https://www.stinemetzfh.com/obituaries/John-Billinger?obId=25148485#/obituaryInfo">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655666505567.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>John Billinger was born August 26, 1933, to Mike and Barbara (Richmeier)
 Billinger of Rural Graham County, Kansas. He passed away from this 
life June 16, 2022, at the age of 88.
 	John was one of 14 children raised on the family farm north of St. 
Peter. Life on the farm instilled the values of Love of God and Church,
 love of family, and the ethics of hard work that was the core of their 
existence. Being one of only four boys born into the family meant that 
John took on much of the responsibility of operating the farm. However, 
all fourteen children worked hard to maintain their life on the farm. 
 	There was always time for some orneriness. John remembered fondly 
the pranks he pulled with his cousins and siblings such as "swiping 
baked goods" and releasing wild rabbits into a relative’s house. The 
family loved card games such as Pitch and Rock, fishing, and playing 
baseball together. Their family went through many tough years of hard 
living, but survived from the land, raising cattle and growing wheat. 
 	John was the first of the children to graduate from high school 
attending Morland High School, in the class of 1952. Shortly afterwards 
he enlisted in the U.S. Army serving as a Private, stationed in France. 
 He was a trained mechanic and was recruited into the Army’s traveling 
baseball team which helped provide entertainment for the troops while 
overseas. 
 	His amazing talent as the team's pitcher carried over into civilian
 life once he returned to Graham County and settled down in Hill City. 
John was playing on a local baseball team, the Hill City Athletics, and 
working in the oil patch when he met "The Love of His Life", Sara Jane 
Biles. Shortly after that set-up first date they were married August 8,
 1959 and started their family. Together John and Sara raised six 
children while he worked as an operator for Central Kansas Power and 
also maintained the St. Peter family farm.
 	John was all about hard work and living a conservative lifestyle. 
He was a devoted son to his parents, and a husband and father who knew 
he had to be a good provider. Besides working his day jobs, he did 
enjoy his hobbies of gardening, yard work fishing, bowling, working on 
cars and keeping all the farm equipment working, welding, and building 
things with his hands. John loved watching the stars and planets 
through his telescope, teaching and playing baseball with his boys, and 
tinkering in his garage on various projects while listening to his polka
 music. 
 	Never wanting to slow down, he kept busy. Work was his life. Trips
 to the farm were a daily activity, Having his boys and eventually his 
grandsons working by his side made John so happy. He taught them all 
about farm life, including how an electric fence "really" worked! His 
promise of supplying all the BB’s for the guns was a sure way to get 
them to the farm with him! John retired from Midwest Energy and worked 
for years as a crop adjustor, before retiring completely to focus on the
 farm and family. 
 	The grandchildren fondly remember his love of popcorn and his dogs,
 his big smile, his tears through uncontrollable laughter, rides on the 
golf cart, his obsession with John Deere tractors, and his simple reply 
of "OK" when they told him they loved him. 
 John was preceded in death by his parents; his son Duane; three 
brothers: Adolph, Pete and Louis; five sisters: Bridget Mann, Lucine 
Horak, Dorothy Fagan, Clara Herman and Elaine Rome. Survivors include 
his wife Sara, Hill City; two sons: Stephen (Lori) Billinger, Ellinwood 
and Mark (Jessica) Billinger, Stockton; three daughters: Debra (Les) 
Burton, Holyrood, Tammy (Dennis) Mersch, Hill City, Saundra (Steven) 
Nickelson, Penokee; five sisters: Carolyn Whittman, Topeka, Agnes Rome, 
Denver, Colorado, Barbara Rome, Denver, Colorado, Mary Anne (Neil) Rome,
 Denver, Colorado and Shirley Kuppetz, Ellis; 18 grandchildren and five 
great grandchildren.
 	 Health issues eventually forced John to quit working entirely. 
Sara, who lovingly called him her "Johnnie B.” provided great care for 
him in their home until it was necessary for family to provide 
additional help. John and Sara's days consisted of caring for their 
dogs, watching their favorite tv shows and sports, endless games of 
Solitaire, tracking the weather, and keeping up with busy family members
 through phone calls and visits. John believed in God's promises of 
giving us glimpses of Heaven on Earth, He treasured all the simple joys 
of life. His nature was one of being very content even though he was 
restricted with very little mobility at the end of his life. He dealt 
with his health situation with great courage and strength His greatest 
joy was being with his wife and family who were blessed to be at his 
side at the moment of death. John will be forever in our hearts and our
 memories. He was greatly loved and will be deeply missed. Eternal rest
 grant unto him, O Lord, and may the Perpetual Light shine upon him. May
 he rest in peace.&nbsp;&nbsp;Click <a href="https://www.stinemetzfh.com/obituaries/John-Billinger?obId=25148485#/obituaryInfo">HERE</a> for service details.

John Billinger

Curtis Jay Schmidt, age 45, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Thursday, June 16, 2022, in Hays. Funeral services are 10:30 AM Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 215 W. 13th, Hays, Kansas. Memorial visitation will be Tuesday 6 PM - 8 PM with a combined parish vigil and rosary service at 7 PM all at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601. Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655572437939.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Curtis Jay Schmidt, age 45, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Thursday, June 16, 2022, in Hays. Funeral services are 10:30 AM Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 215 W. 13th, Hays, Kansas. Memorial visitation will be Tuesday 6 PM - 8 PM with a combined parish vigil and rosary service at 7 PM all at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601. Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>

Dortha Jean Batchman, 60, passed away June 17, 2022, at Via Christ 
St. Francis, Wichita.&nbsp; She was born August 13, 1961, in St. John, to 
Leonard and Florene (Kendall) Batchman.

A lifetime resident of Great Bend, Dortha attended First Church of 
the Nazarene, Great Bend, and enjoyed reading, word searches and writing
 letters to her family.&nbsp; She was a longtime client and employee of 
Sunflower Diversified Services, with a broad range of skills, from 
manufacturing pallets to the delicate craft of making tea towels.

Survivors include one sister, Diane Lewis and husband Glen of Great 
Bend; two aunts Barbara Phillips of Hutchinson and Laura Lou Rodarmel of
 St. John; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.&nbsp; She was preceded in 
death by her parents, and a sister, Debra Hapes.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at 
Bryant Funeral Home, with Rev. Wade Russell presiding.&nbsp; Interment will 
follow at Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend.&nbsp; Visitation will be 9:00 a.m.
 to service time, Wednesday, June 22, at Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp; 

Memorials
 may be given to First Church of the Nazarene or Sunflower Diversified 
Services, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, 
KS&nbsp; 67530.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655666888065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dortha Jean Batchman, 60, passed away June 17, 2022, at Via Christ 
St. Francis, Wichita.&nbsp; She was born August 13, 1961, in St. John, to 
Leonard and Florene (Kendall) Batchman.A lifetime resident of Great Bend, Dortha attended First Church of 
the Nazarene, Great Bend, and enjoyed reading, word searches and writing
 letters to her family.&nbsp; She was a longtime client and employee of 
Sunflower Diversified Services, with a broad range of skills, from 
manufacturing pallets to the delicate craft of making tea towels.Survivors include one sister, Diane Lewis and husband Glen of Great 
Bend; two aunts Barbara Phillips of Hutchinson and Laura Lou Rodarmel of
 St. John; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.&nbsp; She was preceded in 
death by her parents, and a sister, Debra Hapes.Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 22, 2022, at 
Bryant Funeral Home, with Rev. Wade Russell presiding.&nbsp; Interment will 
follow at Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend.&nbsp; Visitation will be 9:00 a.m.
 to service time, Wednesday, June 22, at Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp; Memorials
 may be given to First Church of the Nazarene or Sunflower Diversified 
Services, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, 
KS&nbsp; 67530.

Dortha Jean Batchman

Raymond C. Morgan, age 73, died suddenly on June 14,
 2022, at his home in Talmage, KS. He was born on January 24, 1949, in 
Pueblo, CO., the son of Richard and Doris (Halfman) Morgan. Ray married 
Mary Jo Karn in 1969, divorcing in 1979. Ray married Linda (Holt) Morgan
 on April 19, 1980.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ray spent his early childhood in Pueblo, CO moving to Tribune, KS to 
complete high school.&nbsp; Ray served in the U.S. Army for 4 years 
specializing in Military Police.&nbsp; Upon honorable discharge, Ray moved 
back to Kansas and continued his law enforcement career serving the 
public as a police officer/deputy for the Goodland Police Department, 
Garden City Police Department, and Finney County Sheriff’s Department. 
In 1982. Ray took the position as Undersheriff in Kearny County, KS 
serving the citizens of Kearny County in that position until his 
retirement in 2004.

Ray was an active Life Member in the Kansas Peace Officers 
Association for many years including serving as a District Governor, 
Governor Emeritus and Chair of the Roster Committee.&nbsp; Ray earned his 
Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from the Garden City Community 
College.

An animal lover, Ray was on-call deputy for all snake and crawly 
creature calls in Kearny County, rescuing either the snake or the 
resident.&nbsp; Following retirement, he spent many volunteer hours driving 
the Finney County Humane Society van transporting rescue animals to 
no-kill facilities in Kansas and Colorado. Slamming on the brakes to 
rescue a turtle crossing the road was common practice. Motorcycle trips,
 camping, 4-wheeling and spending time with family and friends was a 
major part of Ray’s life.

Ray is survived by his wife, Linda, of the home, daughters Raquel 
Chavez and great-grandson Damyen, Brooke Morgan and Scott Stecklein, 
Ryan and Cortney Morgan. grandchildren, Raif, Vryah, Rade Morgan, Chris 
(Marcos) Chavez, Kyle Chavez, Taeler and Alec Rosales, great- 
grandchildren Easton, Kylie, and Lincoln Chavez.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Predeceased by daughter Tisha Morgan, sister and brother-in-law, Brenda and Harold Hoffman and parents.

The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, July 2, 2022, at 
10:00 a.m. at the Emmanuel Church, 1300 N. Vine Street, Abilene, KS. The
 service will be livestreamed at the folllowing links:

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ecabilene/videos/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank">Emmanuel Facebook Livestream</a>

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=emmanuel+church+abilene+ks" target="_blank">Emmanuel YouTube Channel Livestream</a>

Suggested donations to the Finney County Humane Society, PO Box 2031,
 Garden City, KS 67846, the Talmage Library &amp; Event Center, 2994 
Main Street, PO Box 807 Talmage, KS 67482 or the Emmanuel Church Youth 
Programs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655573062312.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Raymond C. Morgan, age 73, died suddenly on June 14,
 2022, at his home in Talmage, KS. He was born on January 24, 1949, in 
Pueblo, CO., the son of Richard and Doris (Halfman) Morgan. Ray married 
Mary Jo Karn in 1969, divorcing in 1979. Ray married Linda (Holt) Morgan
 on April 19, 1980.&nbsp; &nbsp;Ray spent his early childhood in Pueblo, CO moving to Tribune, KS to 
complete high school.&nbsp; Ray served in the U.S. Army for 4 years 
specializing in Military Police.&nbsp; Upon honorable discharge, Ray moved 
back to Kansas and continued his law enforcement career serving the 
public as a police officer/deputy for the Goodland Police Department, 
Garden City Police Department, and Finney County Sheriff’s Department. 
In 1982. Ray took the position as Undersheriff in Kearny County, KS 
serving the citizens of Kearny County in that position until his 
retirement in 2004.Ray was an active Life Member in the Kansas Peace Officers 
Association for many years including serving as a District Governor, 
Governor Emeritus and Chair of the Roster Committee.&nbsp; Ray earned his 
Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from the Garden City Community 
College.An animal lover, Ray was on-call deputy for all snake and crawly 
creature calls in Kearny County, rescuing either the snake or the 
resident.&nbsp; Following retirement, he spent many volunteer hours driving 
the Finney County Humane Society van transporting rescue animals to 
no-kill facilities in Kansas and Colorado. Slamming on the brakes to 
rescue a turtle crossing the road was common practice. Motorcycle trips,
 camping, 4-wheeling and spending time with family and friends was a 
major part of Ray’s life.Ray is survived by his wife, Linda, of the home, daughters Raquel 
Chavez and great-grandson Damyen, Brooke Morgan and Scott Stecklein, 
Ryan and Cortney Morgan. grandchildren, Raif, Vryah, Rade Morgan, Chris 
(Marcos) Chavez, Kyle Chavez, Taeler and Alec Rosales, great- 
grandchildren Easton, Kylie, and Lincoln Chavez.&nbsp; &nbsp;Predeceased by daughter Tisha Morgan, sister and brother-in-law, Brenda and Harold Hoffman and parents.The memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, July 2, 2022, at 
10:00 a.m. at the Emmanuel Church, 1300 N. Vine Street, Abilene, KS. The
 service will be livestreamed at the folllowing links:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ecabilene/videos/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank">Emmanuel Facebook Livestream</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=emmanuel+church+abilene+ks" target="_blank">Emmanuel YouTube Channel Livestream</a>Suggested donations to the Finney County Humane Society, PO Box 2031,
 Garden City, KS 67846, the Talmage Library &amp; Event Center, 2994 
Main Street, PO Box 807 Talmage, KS 67482 or the Emmanuel Church Youth 
Programs.

Raymond C. Morgan

Courtney Dawn Towery-Thorne, 28, passed away June 17, 2022, in Larned,
 KS. &nbsp;She was born April 28, 1994, in Great Bend, KS the daughter of 
Scott and Sheila VanBuskirk Towery. A lifetime area resident she was a 
child care professional and loved teaching “littles.”

She was a member of First Christian Church, Larned.&nbsp; Courtney enjoyed
 all animals, loved succulents and crafts and was Miss Fort Larned in 
2011. She liked her farm and especially her cows, Caroline and Eclipse 
and her chicken, Pearl.

On May 1, 2015, she married Dakota Thorne in Larned.&nbsp; He survives.

Other survivors include: father, Scott (Cheyenna) Towery, Larned; 
son, Kaden Thorne, Larned; brother, Cameron Bubb, New York; sister, 
Samantha Towery, Tulsa, OK; step-brother, Raven Bethel, Larned; 
grandfather, Elvin Towery, Larned, and grandmother Carol Chinn, 
Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Sheila Towery and grandmother MaryAnn Towery.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be at a later date.

Memorials may be given to Autism Association in care of Beckwith Mortuary, Box 477 Larned, KS 67550.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655572974133.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtney Dawn Towery-Thorne, 28, passed away June 17, 2022, in Larned,
 KS. &nbsp;She was born April 28, 1994, in Great Bend, KS the daughter of 
Scott and Sheila VanBuskirk Towery. A lifetime area resident she was a 
child care professional and loved teaching “littles.”She was a member of First Christian Church, Larned.&nbsp; Courtney enjoyed
 all animals, loved succulents and crafts and was Miss Fort Larned in 
2011. She liked her farm and especially her cows, Caroline and Eclipse 
and her chicken, Pearl.On May 1, 2015, she married Dakota Thorne in Larned.&nbsp; He survives.Other survivors include: father, Scott (Cheyenna) Towery, Larned; 
son, Kaden Thorne, Larned; brother, Cameron Bubb, New York; sister, 
Samantha Towery, Tulsa, OK; step-brother, Raven Bethel, Larned; 
grandfather, Elvin Towery, Larned, and grandmother Carol Chinn, 
Oklahoma.She was preceded in death by her mother, Sheila Towery and grandmother MaryAnn Towery.Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be at a later date.Memorials may be given to Autism Association in care of Beckwith Mortuary, Box 477 Larned, KS 67550.&nbsp;

Obituaries