On May 31, 2024, the world lost a beloved soul with the passing of Jodie Fisher. Jodie was born on January 12, 1965, in Hays, Kansas, to Fred and Carol (Dechant) Werth where she spent her formative years surrounded by love and laughter.&nbsp;Jodie's life was a tapestry of diverse passions and endeavors. As a small business owner, she ran a successful cleaning service and craft store, leaving an indelible mark on her community. Her knack for collecting carnival glass showcased her appreciation for beauty in the simplest of things.&nbsp;Beyond her entrepreneurial spirit, Jodie was renowned for her culinary skills. Her traditional German recipes, particularly the German Wedding Soup and Galuskies, were a source of joy for her family and friends. Cooking brought her immense happiness, evident in the smiles her dishes brought to those around her.&nbsp;Nature held a special place in Jodie's heart; she found solace in tending to her garden and nurturing colorful blooms. Her garden was not just a collection of plants but a haven of tranquility and peace—a reflection of her nurturing personality.&nbsp;Jodie's home in Wentzville, Missouri was a sanctuary not only for flowers but also for hummingbirds. With 14 hummingbird feeders adorning her yard, she welcomed these delicate creatures with open arms and marveled at their beauty.&nbsp;As a pet parent to Yorkshire Terriers and Golden Retrievers, Jodie displayed unwavering love and care for her fur babies. The bond she shared with them was one of unconditional love and companionship—a testament to her kind and gentle nature.&nbsp;In the hearts of those who survive Jodie resides an eternal legacy of love and memories. She is survived by her loving husband Kenneth Fisher, who stood by her side through thick and thin. Jodie's memory will forever be cherished by her brother Gary Werth (Patty) of Salina, Kansas; sister Jillaine Curry of St Charles, Missouri; mother-in-law Josephine Fisher; brothers-in-law Francis Fisher, Jerry (Brenda) Fisher, Mark (Melanie) Fisher; sisters-in-law Patty Arias, Cindy (Floyd) Lang, Pam McCormack, Wanda (Lee) Staab, Sheila (Jim) Goodwin, Laura Smull (Dave Titus), Donna (Alex) Cape; numerous nieces and nephews—and all extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her Parents, her brother Steve Werth, her father-in-law Francis Fisher; a sister-in-law Linda Fisher; and a brother-in law Jimmy Arias.

Mass of Christian burial will be Friday, June 7, 2024, at 10:00 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church - Hays with Father Nick Parker officiating. Viewing and Visitation will be from 5 PM to 8 PM with a combined parish vigil service at 7 PM on Thursday, June 6, 2024, all at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, KS 67601. Interment will follow the services in the St Joseph Catholic Cemetery - Hays.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains in care of the Funeral Home.&nbsp;Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601. Memories and words of comfort may be left on Jodie's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717615153446.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On May 31, 2024, the world lost a beloved soul with the passing of Jodie Fisher. Jodie was born on January 12, 1965, in Hays, Kansas, to Fred and Carol (Dechant) Werth where she spent her formative years surrounded by love and laughter.&nbsp;Jodie's life was a tapestry of diverse passions and endeavors. As a small business owner, she ran a successful cleaning service and craft store, leaving an indelible mark on her community. Her knack for collecting carnival glass showcased her appreciation for beauty in the simplest of things.&nbsp;Beyond her entrepreneurial spirit, Jodie was renowned for her culinary skills. Her traditional German recipes, particularly the German Wedding Soup and Galuskies, were a source of joy for her family and friends. Cooking brought her immense happiness, evident in the smiles her dishes brought to those around her.&nbsp;Nature held a special place in Jodie's heart; she found solace in tending to her garden and nurturing colorful blooms. Her garden was not just a collection of plants but a haven of tranquility and peace—a reflection of her nurturing personality.&nbsp;Jodie's home in Wentzville, Missouri was a sanctuary not only for flowers but also for hummingbirds. With 14 hummingbird feeders adorning her yard, she welcomed these delicate creatures with open arms and marveled at their beauty.&nbsp;As a pet parent to Yorkshire Terriers and Golden Retrievers, Jodie displayed unwavering love and care for her fur babies. The bond she shared with them was one of unconditional love and companionship—a testament to her kind and gentle nature.&nbsp;In the hearts of those who survive Jodie resides an eternal legacy of love and memories. She is survived by her loving husband Kenneth Fisher, who stood by her side through thick and thin. Jodie's memory will forever be cherished by her brother Gary Werth (Patty) of Salina, Kansas; sister Jillaine Curry of St Charles, Missouri; mother-in-law Josephine Fisher; brothers-in-law Francis Fisher, Jerry (Brenda) Fisher, Mark (Melanie) Fisher; sisters-in-law Patty Arias, Cindy (Floyd) Lang, Pam McCormack, Wanda (Lee) Staab, Sheila (Jim) Goodwin, Laura Smull (Dave Titus), Donna (Alex) Cape; numerous nieces and nephews—and all extended family members.She was preceded in death by her Parents, her brother Steve Werth, her father-in-law Francis Fisher; a sister-in-law Linda Fisher; and a brother-in law Jimmy Arias.Mass of Christian burial will be Friday, June 7, 2024, at 10:00 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church - Hays with Father Nick Parker officiating. Viewing and Visitation will be from 5 PM to 8 PM with a combined parish vigil service at 7 PM on Thursday, June 6, 2024, all at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, KS 67601. Interment will follow the services in the St Joseph Catholic Cemetery - Hays.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains in care of the Funeral Home.&nbsp;Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601. Memories and words of comfort may be left on Jodie's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Jodie Fisher

Jason S. Hull, age 51 years, of Great Bend, Kansas passed away on Friday morning, May 31, 2024 at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; Jason was born on December 3, 1972 at Dodge City, Kansas and his parents were Patrick Clark and Carole S. (Koehn) Hull. The family moved to Great Bend, where Jason lived nearly his entire life. He worked in the Oilfield most of his adult life, having worked for Klima Well Service of Great Bend about 15 years as well as other oilfield companies. Jason was very outdoor-oriented, and loved fishing and listening to music. He was a member of Grace Community Church in Great Bend.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Survivors include two sons:&nbsp; Zachary (&amp; Keisha) of Joplin, Missouri and Shannon; three daughters:&nbsp; Jailyn, Shyanne and Allene all of Great Bend; one brother Pierce (&amp; Brooke) Hull of Great Bend and one sister Cara (&amp; Tyler) Beck of Salina, Kansas; nieces and nephews.&nbsp; Jason was preceded in death by his parents and a son Matthew Hull.

Jason S. Hull, age 51 years, of Great Bend, Kansas passed away on Friday morning, May 31, 2024 at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; Jason was born on December 3, 1972 at Dodge City, Kansas and his parents were Patrick Clark and Carole S. (Koehn) Hull. The family moved to Great Bend, where Jason lived nearly his entire life. He worked in the Oilfield most of his adult life, having worked for Klima Well Service of Great Bend about 15 years as well as other oilfield companies. Jason was very outdoor-oriented, and loved fishing and listening to music. He was a member of Grace Community Church in Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Survivors include two sons:&nbsp; Zachary (&amp; Keisha) of Joplin, Missouri and Shannon; three daughters:&nbsp; Jailyn, Shyanne and Allene all of Great Bend; one brother Pierce (&amp; Brooke) Hull of Great Bend and one sister Cara (&amp; Tyler) Beck of Salina, Kansas; nieces and nephews.&nbsp; Jason was preceded in death by his parents and a son Matthew Hull.

Jason Hull, age 51

Tuesday, July 13th, 1954-Sunday, June 2nd, 2024

<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/trixie-carney/5440593/index.php">Service details can be found by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
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 </figure><h2>Trixie Lu Carney (Underhill)</h2>Tuesday, July 13th, 1954-Sunday, June 2nd, 2024<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/trixie-carney/5440593/index.php">Service details can be found by clicking here.</a>

Trixie Lu Carney (Underhill)

Charles Leslie Blau, age 91 passed away on Sunday, June 2nd, 2024, at the Wichita County Health Center in Leoti, KS. Some knew him as Charles or Chuck, but he was known as Charlie to his beloved community.&nbsp;

Charlie was born October 5th, 1932, at the home of his Uncle Don and Aunt Annie in Russell Springs, KS; the last son of Louie and Julia (Rubottom) Blau. He grew up in southern Logan County where the Blau families homesteaded in 1885. Charles grew up with Aunts, Uncles, cousins, and four brothers. He helped with the farming and cattle from the time he was a small boy. Charles attended grade school at the Laurel School affectionately known as the “Blau School.” He went to high school in Leoti and graduated in 1950. He started farming for himself soon after he graduated.

On December 29th, 1959, he married Joyce Adele (Wonsetler) at the First Baptist Church in Leoti. They made their first home in Logan County near the Blau Ranch, starting their lives together farming and raising cattle. They later moved to the Wichita County farm where they shared 53 years of marriage before Joyce passed in 2013. Together they raised four children. Charlie was active in his community as a 4-H leader, Baptist Youth Fellowship leader, bus driver, deacon, and trustee for the First Baptist Church. He served his community as a board member for Camp Christy, the senior center, and many volunteer hours during the county fair. He always made time to visit with those in the nursing home and was a big fan of the Wichita County Athletic teams cheering them on from his seat at the top of the bleachers. He dearly enjoyed John Wayne movies, his Wednesday morning coffee group, and playing pitch down at the senior center.

Charlie will be fondly remembered for his faith in God, his genuine kindness, and his delightful sense of humor. We will miss his great stories and those one-liners that always made us laugh. Charles is survived by his daughter Charla (Ronald) Dunn of El Dorado, KS, son Steven (Lisa) Blau of Wichita, KS, daughter Cynthia (Mike) Mills of Iliff, CO, and daughter Trisha Blau of Fayetteville, AR. His pride and joy; Granddaughters Charisse Riddle, Julia Riddle, Kirsten Blau (engaged to August Fielding), Leslie Riddle, Kylee Blau, Sienna Dunn, grandson Garrett Mills, and great-grandson Henry Fielding, sister-in-law Mary Cannady, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Carl and Earl Wonsetler, brothers Martin (Albertine), Hale (Irene), Fritz (Marilla), and John (Joyce) Blau.

Please join us to celebrate and honor this great man and a well-lived life on Saturday, June 8th, 2024, at 10:30 at the First Baptist Church, 101 Carter Avenue, Leoti, Kansas with pastor Gary Salmans presiding. Services will be livestreamed at&nbsp;<a href="https://priceandsons.com/">priceandsons.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://evt.live/blauservice">https://evt.live/blauservice</a>.

Interment will be at the Beulah Cemetery in North Eastern Wichita County following the funeral service.Memorials may be given to the "Wichita County Amusement Association," "The Wichita County EMTs" or "First Baptist Church of Leoti" in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 161, Leoti, KS 67861.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717532445593.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Charles Leslie Blau, age 91 passed away on Sunday, June 2nd, 2024, at the Wichita County Health Center in Leoti, KS. Some knew him as Charles or Chuck, but he was known as Charlie to his beloved community.&nbsp;Charlie was born October 5th, 1932, at the home of his Uncle Don and Aunt Annie in Russell Springs, KS; the last son of Louie and Julia (Rubottom) Blau. He grew up in southern Logan County where the Blau families homesteaded in 1885. Charles grew up with Aunts, Uncles, cousins, and four brothers. He helped with the farming and cattle from the time he was a small boy. Charles attended grade school at the Laurel School affectionately known as the “Blau School.” He went to high school in Leoti and graduated in 1950. He started farming for himself soon after he graduated.On December 29th, 1959, he married Joyce Adele (Wonsetler) at the First Baptist Church in Leoti. They made their first home in Logan County near the Blau Ranch, starting their lives together farming and raising cattle. They later moved to the Wichita County farm where they shared 53 years of marriage before Joyce passed in 2013. Together they raised four children. Charlie was active in his community as a 4-H leader, Baptist Youth Fellowship leader, bus driver, deacon, and trustee for the First Baptist Church. He served his community as a board member for Camp Christy, the senior center, and many volunteer hours during the county fair. He always made time to visit with those in the nursing home and was a big fan of the Wichita County Athletic teams cheering them on from his seat at the top of the bleachers. He dearly enjoyed John Wayne movies, his Wednesday morning coffee group, and playing pitch down at the senior center.Charlie will be fondly remembered for his faith in God, his genuine kindness, and his delightful sense of humor. We will miss his great stories and those one-liners that always made us laugh. Charles is survived by his daughter Charla (Ronald) Dunn of El Dorado, KS, son Steven (Lisa) Blau of Wichita, KS, daughter Cynthia (Mike) Mills of Iliff, CO, and daughter Trisha Blau of Fayetteville, AR. His pride and joy; Granddaughters Charisse Riddle, Julia Riddle, Kirsten Blau (engaged to August Fielding), Leslie Riddle, Kylee Blau, Sienna Dunn, grandson Garrett Mills, and great-grandson Henry Fielding, sister-in-law Mary Cannady, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Carl and Earl Wonsetler, brothers Martin (Albertine), Hale (Irene), Fritz (Marilla), and John (Joyce) Blau.Please join us to celebrate and honor this great man and a well-lived life on Saturday, June 8th, 2024, at 10:30 at the First Baptist Church, 101 Carter Avenue, Leoti, Kansas with pastor Gary Salmans presiding. Services will be livestreamed at&nbsp;<a href="https://priceandsons.com/">priceandsons.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://evt.live/blauservice">https://evt.live/blauservice</a>.Interment will be at the Beulah Cemetery in North Eastern Wichita County following the funeral service.Memorials may be given to the "Wichita County Amusement Association," "The Wichita County EMTs" or "First Baptist Church of Leoti" in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 161, Leoti, KS 67861.

Charles Leslie Blau

Harry Zachman, age 84 of Wichita, Kansas passed away Saturday June 1, 2024. He was born March 31, 1940, in Ellis County Kansas to John J. and Mary (Armbrister) Zachman.

He is survived by sisters: Helen Deines of Wakeeney, KS; Martha Massier of Ellis, KS; sister-in-law: Adabelle Zachman; and brother-in-law: Milton Dietz.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: Ernest Zachman, Oscar Zachman, Raymond Zachman and infant brother Wayne Zachman, and Sisters: Dorthy Dietz, Frieda Allphin and Anna Hamburg.

Funeral services will be Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 10 AM at Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 East 17th&nbsp;Street Ellis, KS 67637. Visitation will be from 9 AM until service time at the Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow the services in the St John Cemetery – Ellis.

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 East 17th&nbsp;Street Ellis, KS 67637.

Memorials suggested to St John Lutheran Church – Ellis in care of the Funeral Chapel.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717451364205.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Harry Zachman, age 84 of Wichita, Kansas passed away Saturday June 1, 2024. He was born March 31, 1940, in Ellis County Kansas to John J. and Mary (Armbrister) Zachman.He is survived by sisters: Helen Deines of Wakeeney, KS; Martha Massier of Ellis, KS; sister-in-law: Adabelle Zachman; and brother-in-law: Milton Dietz.Harry was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: Ernest Zachman, Oscar Zachman, Raymond Zachman and infant brother Wayne Zachman, and Sisters: Dorthy Dietz, Frieda Allphin and Anna Hamburg.Funeral services will be Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 10 AM at Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 East 17th&nbsp;Street Ellis, KS 67637. Visitation will be from 9 AM until service time at the Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow the services in the St John Cemetery – Ellis.Services in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 East 17th&nbsp;Street Ellis, KS 67637.Memorials suggested to St John Lutheran Church – Ellis in care of the Funeral Chapel.Memories and words of comfort may be left on Harry's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Harry Zachman

Joel P. Daubert, of rural Otis, Kansas, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024. Service will be Friday, June 7, 2024, at 10:00 A.M., at Trinity Lutheran Church, Otis, Kansas.

Visitation will be Thursday, June 6, 2024, from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.

Church visitation will be Friday, June 7, 2024, from 9:00 A.M. to 9:50 A.M. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Otis, Kansas.

Joel P. Daubert, of rural Otis, Kansas, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024. Service will be Friday, June 7, 2024, at 10:00 A.M., at Trinity Lutheran Church, Otis, Kansas.Visitation will be Thursday, June 6, 2024, from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.Church visitation will be Friday, June 7, 2024, from 9:00 A.M. to 9:50 A.M. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Otis, Kansas.A complete obituary will follow.

Joel P. Daubert

Russell D. “Speedy” Hoberecht, a longtime resident of Great Bend, peacefully went to be with his heavenly Father on June 3, 2024. Russell was born on Oct. 4, 1931, in Newton, son of William Delmer and Gladys Marie (Howard) Hoberecht. He married Wanda Joyce Kirkman Sept. 20, 1953, in Great Bend. She survives.

Russell enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served in the Korean War, earning the rank of Sergeant. He co-owned and operated Ace Pipe Pulling. He was then employed with Koch Industries as a Gauger until his retirement. Russell was a faithful member of First Christian Church. He had a photographer’s talent and could build anything from birdhouses to furniture.

Russell is survived by his wife of 70 years; sons, Mark Hoberecht (Cheryl) of Great Bend, Kirk Hoberecht of Salida, Colo.; daughter, Lisa Kjellberg of Hutchinson; brother, Leland Hoberecht of Newton; sister, Thelma Buettgenbach (Sol) of Great Bend, grandchildren; Vanessa Reece (Travis), Jace Hoberecht (Mary Kate), Kristen Hoberecht, Cassie Hoberecht, Nicholas Kjellberg, Andrew Kjellberg; great grandchildren, Skylar Bowers, Maddie Bowers, Atlas Reece, and Larke Reece.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Don Hoberecht; sister, Glenna Bone; son in law, Stanley Kjellberg.

Funeral Services will be Tuesday, June 11, 2024, 10:30 a.m. at First Christian Church, Great Bend, with Pastor Joseph Smeragliuolo presiding. Military Honors conducted by United States Marine Corps Honor Guard. Visitation will be from noon until 8 p.m., Monday June 10, Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to First Christian Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.

Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net. Arrangements by Bryant Funeral Home 1425 Patton Road Great Bend, Kansas 67530

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717520355528.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Russell D. “Speedy” Hoberecht, a longtime resident of Great Bend, peacefully went to be with his heavenly Father on June 3, 2024. Russell was born on Oct. 4, 1931, in Newton, son of William Delmer and Gladys Marie (Howard) Hoberecht. He married Wanda Joyce Kirkman Sept. 20, 1953, in Great Bend. She survives.Russell enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served in the Korean War, earning the rank of Sergeant. He co-owned and operated Ace Pipe Pulling. He was then employed with Koch Industries as a Gauger until his retirement. Russell was a faithful member of First Christian Church. He had a photographer’s talent and could build anything from birdhouses to furniture.Russell is survived by his wife of 70 years; sons, Mark Hoberecht (Cheryl) of Great Bend, Kirk Hoberecht of Salida, Colo.; daughter, Lisa Kjellberg of Hutchinson; brother, Leland Hoberecht of Newton; sister, Thelma Buettgenbach (Sol) of Great Bend, grandchildren; Vanessa Reece (Travis), Jace Hoberecht (Mary Kate), Kristen Hoberecht, Cassie Hoberecht, Nicholas Kjellberg, Andrew Kjellberg; great grandchildren, Skylar Bowers, Maddie Bowers, Atlas Reece, and Larke Reece.Russell was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Don Hoberecht; sister, Glenna Bone; son in law, Stanley Kjellberg.Funeral Services will be Tuesday, June 11, 2024, 10:30 a.m. at First Christian Church, Great Bend, with Pastor Joseph Smeragliuolo presiding. Military Honors conducted by United States Marine Corps Honor Guard. Visitation will be from noon until 8 p.m., Monday June 10, Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to First Christian Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net. Arrangements by Bryant Funeral Home 1425 Patton Road Great Bend, Kansas 67530

Russell 'Speedy' Hoberecht, age 92

Wednesday, September 28th, 1921-Friday, May 31st, 2024

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 </figure><h2>Lois Louise Ferguson (Sears)</h2>Wednesday, September 28th, 1921-Friday, May 31st, 2024

Lois Louise Ferguson (Sears)

On Friday May 31, 2024 Earth lost a beautiful soul and Heaven gained an Angel when Joann (Crawford) Eller went home to her Lord. She was born June 16, 1936 in Harlan, KS at home the daughter of Gerald and Avis Crawford. Joann grew up in Gaylord, KS and graduated from Gaylord High School. She married Jim Eller November 25, 1956 in Gaylord at the Nazerene Church, they moved to Hays, KS where Jim attended Fort Hays State University, who with Jo's help attained a BS in Education and later an MS in Counseling. They lived in Kirwin, KS and Long Island, KS before moving to Sylvan Grove, KS where they lived for over 50 years recently moving to Lucas, KS. Joann was a caregiver at the very core of her being, loving and caring for many children over several decades as a daycare provider and taking care of Jim in the last years of her life. Joann loved her Lord and working with children and combined that by being a long time teacher of Vacation Bible School. She joined the Sylvan Presbyterian Church in 1967 and worked in the Sylvan Library. Joann was always a loyal friend and loving wife, mom and grandma supporting anyone who came to her needing an ear to l‪isten and a shoulder to lean on. And, of course, a hug before leaving. They always left knowing someone loved them unconditionally and forgave as Jesus would. One of her favorite pasttimes was watching her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren participate in activities especially playing sports (even volleyball which made her very nervous.) She could be seen nervously walking the hallways and sidelines during close games and around the track cheering during races. She and Jim were a known by all the friends of their grandkids as Grandma Jo and Grandpa Jim because they were at so many of their activities everyone knew them.

Joann was a woman of deep faith drawing strength from her love of God and she is home and at peace in Heaven. She is survived by her husband of 67 years Jim Eller; three daughters, Sheree Poskey and husband Mitch of Lawrence, KS, Kristi Mettlen and husband Wes of Lucas, KS, and Heidi Gillespie of Chase, KS; ten grandchildren Shane Mettlen and wife Jennifer, Clay Mettlen and wife Stephanie, Christopher Poskey and wife Sara, Sara (Mettlen) Smith and husband Chris, Jordan Poskey and wife Jeni, CJ Mettlen and wife Lindsay, Jamie Gillespie, Chelsee Poskey, Sierra Gillespie, and Breahna (Gillespie) Crawford and husband Jordan; and 20 (soon to be 21) great grandchildren.&nbsp;

A viewing will be held at the mortuary in Sylvan Grove on Wednesday, June 5 from 4 to 8.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 6 at 2:00 pm at the Sylvan Grove Presbyterian Church with Sharon Ringler and Steve Boor presiding.&nbsp;

She will be laid to rest in the Sylvan Grove Cemetery.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Sylvan Grove Public Library and the Sylvan Presbyterian Church for Vacation Bible School. Rest in Peace our beautiful Guardian Angel.

On Friday May 31, 2024 Earth lost a beautiful soul and Heaven gained an Angel when Joann (Crawford) Eller went home to her Lord. She was born June 16, 1936 in Harlan, KS at home the daughter of Gerald and Avis Crawford. Joann grew up in Gaylord, KS and graduated from Gaylord High School. She married Jim Eller November 25, 1956 in Gaylord at the Nazerene Church, they moved to Hays, KS where Jim attended Fort Hays State University, who with Jo's help attained a BS in Education and later an MS in Counseling. They lived in Kirwin, KS and Long Island, KS before moving to Sylvan Grove, KS where they lived for over 50 years recently moving to Lucas, KS. Joann was a caregiver at the very core of her being, loving and caring for many children over several decades as a daycare provider and taking care of Jim in the last years of her life. Joann loved her Lord and working with children and combined that by being a long time teacher of Vacation Bible School. She joined the Sylvan Presbyterian Church in 1967 and worked in the Sylvan Library. Joann was always a loyal friend and loving wife, mom and grandma supporting anyone who came to her needing an ear to l‪isten and a shoulder to lean on. And, of course, a hug before leaving. They always left knowing someone loved them unconditionally and forgave as Jesus would. One of her favorite pasttimes was watching her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren participate in activities especially playing sports (even volleyball which made her very nervous.) She could be seen nervously walking the hallways and sidelines during close games and around the track cheering during races. She and Jim were a known by all the friends of their grandkids as Grandma Jo and Grandpa Jim because they were at so many of their activities everyone knew them.Joann was a woman of deep faith drawing strength from her love of God and she is home and at peace in Heaven. She is survived by her husband of 67 years Jim Eller; three daughters, Sheree Poskey and husband Mitch of Lawrence, KS, Kristi Mettlen and husband Wes of Lucas, KS, and Heidi Gillespie of Chase, KS; ten grandchildren Shane Mettlen and wife Jennifer, Clay Mettlen and wife Stephanie, Christopher Poskey and wife Sara, Sara (Mettlen) Smith and husband Chris, Jordan Poskey and wife Jeni, CJ Mettlen and wife Lindsay, Jamie Gillespie, Chelsee Poskey, Sierra Gillespie, and Breahna (Gillespie) Crawford and husband Jordan; and 20 (soon to be 21) great grandchildren.&nbsp;A viewing will be held at the mortuary in Sylvan Grove on Wednesday, June 5 from 4 to 8.Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 6 at 2:00 pm at the Sylvan Grove Presbyterian Church with Sharon Ringler and Steve Boor presiding.&nbsp;She will be laid to rest in the Sylvan Grove Cemetery.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Sylvan Grove Public Library and the Sylvan Presbyterian Church for Vacation Bible School. Rest in Peace our beautiful Guardian Angel.

Joann (Crawford) Eller

Virginia Helen (Jacobs) Jacobs of Hesston, Kan., peacefully went to be with her heavenly Father on June 2, 2024. &nbsp;Virginia was born on August 18,1930, in Pfeifer, Kan., daughter of George and Bridget (Schmidt) Jacobs. She married Lloyd “Buddy” Crain August 31, 1948. He preceded her in death July 26, 2000. Virginia and Alfred Jacobs were wed in 2004. Alfred passed away May 3, 2018.

Virginia was a longtime resident of Great Bend and was employed as a ward secretary and nurses’ aide on the Medical Surgical floor of CKMC. She was a member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church and served as a communion minister. Virginia also belonged to the Altar Society. She was talented in art and loved sewing, drawing, embroidery, cooking, and baking.

Virginia is survived by sons; Mark D. Crain of Pratt, Ks, Michael L. Crain (Renay) of Eads, Colo.; Her daughters, Cheryl Alexander of Great Bend, Ks., Debra Moss (Ed) of Pratt, Ks., Nancy Wetig (John) of Wichita, Ks., and Lisa Viegra (Jeremy) of Larned, Ks., sister; Janice Leiker, Ellis, Ks.; 23 grandchildren, 48 great grandchildren, and 27 great great grandchildren.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, stepfather, Joe Urban; her brothers; Norman Jacobs, James Jacobs, Larry Urban, sisters; Rita Jacobs and Florence Morris; and two grandchildren; Maria Fuentes and Lyndee Scott.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:30 p.m. Friday, June 7, 2024, at St. Rose Of Lima Catholic Church in Great Bend, with Father Prakash Kola presiding. &nbsp;Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, June 6, 2024, with an Altar Society Rosary at 4:00 p.m. and Vigil at 7:00 p.m. all at Bryant Funeral Home. Additional visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to Noon, Friday, June 7, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to the Prince of Peace Parish or Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS &nbsp;67530.

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 </figure>Virginia Helen (Jacobs) Jacobs of Hesston, Kan., peacefully went to be with her heavenly Father on June 2, 2024. &nbsp;Virginia was born on August 18,1930, in Pfeifer, Kan., daughter of George and Bridget (Schmidt) Jacobs. She married Lloyd “Buddy” Crain August 31, 1948. He preceded her in death July 26, 2000. Virginia and Alfred Jacobs were wed in 2004. Alfred passed away May 3, 2018.Virginia was a longtime resident of Great Bend and was employed as a ward secretary and nurses’ aide on the Medical Surgical floor of CKMC. She was a member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church and served as a communion minister. Virginia also belonged to the Altar Society. She was talented in art and loved sewing, drawing, embroidery, cooking, and baking.Virginia is survived by sons; Mark D. Crain of Pratt, Ks, Michael L. Crain (Renay) of Eads, Colo.; Her daughters, Cheryl Alexander of Great Bend, Ks., Debra Moss (Ed) of Pratt, Ks., Nancy Wetig (John) of Wichita, Ks., and Lisa Viegra (Jeremy) of Larned, Ks., sister; Janice Leiker, Ellis, Ks.; 23 grandchildren, 48 great grandchildren, and 27 great great grandchildren.Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, stepfather, Joe Urban; her brothers; Norman Jacobs, James Jacobs, Larry Urban, sisters; Rita Jacobs and Florence Morris; and two grandchildren; Maria Fuentes and Lyndee Scott.A Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:30 p.m. Friday, June 7, 2024, at St. Rose Of Lima Catholic Church in Great Bend, with Father Prakash Kola presiding. &nbsp;Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;Visitation will be 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, June 6, 2024, with an Altar Society Rosary at 4:00 p.m. and Vigil at 7:00 p.m. all at Bryant Funeral Home. Additional visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to Noon, Friday, June 7, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to the Prince of Peace Parish or Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS &nbsp;67530.

Virginia Helen (Jacobs) Jacobs

Thomas L. Demel, 87, passed away June 2, 2024, at Credo Senior Living, Hoisington, Kansas. &nbsp;He was born February 21, 1937, on the family farm west of Odin, Kansas, to Frank and Mary (Klug) Demel. &nbsp;On May 6, 1961, Tom married Darleen Graves at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hoisington, and shared 63 years together.

Tom graduated from Odin High School in 1955, and proudly served in the Army from 1955-1957 as a Specialist Third Class in the 155th Artillery in Darmstadt Germany along the Russian border. He returned to the states and worked for DS&amp;W in the oilfield, for Jerry Beran at The Odin Store, for Marlette Homes and for Bob Beran at the Tap Room. &nbsp;Tom then started his career in auto parts sales working for Great Bend Auto Parts and Sidles Auto Parts and eventually buying into Sidles Auto Parts to own his own business. &nbsp;In 1977 he changed the name to TD’s Auto Parts and relocated to Main Street, Hoisington, Kansas, and was in business until 1999 when he retired.

Tom was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hoisington, Kansas, Odin Knights of Columbus, the VFW and American Legion serving on honor guards for many functions. &nbsp;Tom collected baseball cards, coins, and sports memorabilia. &nbsp;He enjoyed every level of sports and was known to watch 4 to 5 TV’s so he wouldn’t miss any action and you never thought to try to grab the remote to change the channel. &nbsp;He was also an avid pitch player and was known for being very competitive in his younger days. &nbsp;He was a huge fan of the Hoisington Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, Kansas State Wildcats and Kansas Jayhawks basketball. &nbsp;He especially enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren to whom he was proud to gift his sports memorabilia collection and who enjoy this same passion. &nbsp;Tom was also known for his friendliness by giving out Smarties candy.

Survivors include his wife, Darleen, of the home; daughters, Janet (Shawn) Jonas of Hoisington, and Tammy (Peter) Burke of Campbell, Texas; and son, Tom (Brenda) Demel of Wichita; grandchildren, Austin (Katie) Jonas, Cosby, Missouri, Audra (Adam) Paquette, Manhattan, Brandon (fiancé Blair) Burke and Walter (Meaghan) Burke, Campbell, Texas; great-grandchildren, his greatest joy, Hunter, Jordy and Brecken Jonas, Anthony, Ajla and Audie Leonard, Layton and Landyn Burke, Bodie and Stella Rose Burke, Austin Paquette, Jeremiah Valles, Layton, Liam and Averie Garcia, and Jacob and David Alter; brothers, Robert (Rosemary) Demel, Great Bend, Marvin (Phyllis) Demel, Kanopolis, Allen (Margaret) Demel, Elk City, Oklahoma, Mark (Barbara) Demel, Hoisington; sisters, Dolores (Jim) Rosenberg, Simsbury, Connecticut, and Rosemary Schremmer, Hoisington, and sister-in-law Patricia Demel, Great Bend.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, Raymond Demel, brother-in-law Kenneth Schremmer, and nephew, Lance Walters and great-grandchildren Jack and Cade Jonas.

Visitation will be at 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home. Family will greet friends from 6- 8 p.m. with Vigil and Knights of Columbus Rosary beginning at 7 p.m.&nbsp;

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 6, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hoisington, Kansas, celebrated by Father Warren Stecklein. &nbsp;Interment with military honors will follow at the St. John Catholic Cemetery, Hoisington.

Memorials have been designated to Clara Barton Hospital Foundation, St. John Catholic Cemetery Fund, or Gentiva Hospice in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, Kansas 67544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717451228228.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas L. Demel, 87, passed away June 2, 2024, at Credo Senior Living, Hoisington, Kansas. &nbsp;He was born February 21, 1937, on the family farm west of Odin, Kansas, to Frank and Mary (Klug) Demel. &nbsp;On May 6, 1961, Tom married Darleen Graves at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hoisington, and shared 63 years together.Tom graduated from Odin High School in 1955, and proudly served in the Army from 1955-1957 as a Specialist Third Class in the 155th Artillery in Darmstadt Germany along the Russian border. He returned to the states and worked for DS&amp;W in the oilfield, for Jerry Beran at The Odin Store, for Marlette Homes and for Bob Beran at the Tap Room. &nbsp;Tom then started his career in auto parts sales working for Great Bend Auto Parts and Sidles Auto Parts and eventually buying into Sidles Auto Parts to own his own business. &nbsp;In 1977 he changed the name to TD’s Auto Parts and relocated to Main Street, Hoisington, Kansas, and was in business until 1999 when he retired.Tom was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hoisington, Kansas, Odin Knights of Columbus, the VFW and American Legion serving on honor guards for many functions. &nbsp;Tom collected baseball cards, coins, and sports memorabilia. &nbsp;He enjoyed every level of sports and was known to watch 4 to 5 TV’s so he wouldn’t miss any action and you never thought to try to grab the remote to change the channel. &nbsp;He was also an avid pitch player and was known for being very competitive in his younger days. &nbsp;He was a huge fan of the Hoisington Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, Kansas State Wildcats and Kansas Jayhawks basketball. &nbsp;He especially enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren to whom he was proud to gift his sports memorabilia collection and who enjoy this same passion. &nbsp;Tom was also known for his friendliness by giving out Smarties candy.Survivors include his wife, Darleen, of the home; daughters, Janet (Shawn) Jonas of Hoisington, and Tammy (Peter) Burke of Campbell, Texas; and son, Tom (Brenda) Demel of Wichita; grandchildren, Austin (Katie) Jonas, Cosby, Missouri, Audra (Adam) Paquette, Manhattan, Brandon (fiancé Blair) Burke and Walter (Meaghan) Burke, Campbell, Texas; great-grandchildren, his greatest joy, Hunter, Jordy and Brecken Jonas, Anthony, Ajla and Audie Leonard, Layton and Landyn Burke, Bodie and Stella Rose Burke, Austin Paquette, Jeremiah Valles, Layton, Liam and Averie Garcia, and Jacob and David Alter; brothers, Robert (Rosemary) Demel, Great Bend, Marvin (Phyllis) Demel, Kanopolis, Allen (Margaret) Demel, Elk City, Oklahoma, Mark (Barbara) Demel, Hoisington; sisters, Dolores (Jim) Rosenberg, Simsbury, Connecticut, and Rosemary Schremmer, Hoisington, and sister-in-law Patricia Demel, Great Bend.He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, Raymond Demel, brother-in-law Kenneth Schremmer, and nephew, Lance Walters and great-grandchildren Jack and Cade Jonas.Visitation will be at 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home. Family will greet friends from 6- 8 p.m. with Vigil and Knights of Columbus Rosary beginning at 7 p.m.&nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 6, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hoisington, Kansas, celebrated by Father Warren Stecklein. &nbsp;Interment with military honors will follow at the St. John Catholic Cemetery, Hoisington.Memorials have been designated to Clara Barton Hospital Foundation, St. John Catholic Cemetery Fund, or Gentiva Hospice in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, Kansas 67544.

Thomas L. Demel

Linda A. Dinning, age 74, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado. &nbsp;She was born on October 11, 1949, in Dodge City, Kansas, the daughter of Howard &amp; Joan Harger Koehn. &nbsp;A lifetime resident of Scott City, Kansas, she worked at Park Lane Nursing Home for 16 years in Scott City, Kansas.

In 1984 she married David Dinning in Scott City, Kansas. &nbsp;He passed away on September 28, 2006 in Hays, Kansas.

Survivors include her Two Sons - Hank Dinning of Lenexa, Kansas, David J. &amp; Cindi Dinning of Larned, Kansas, One Daughter - Dana Dinning of Plano, Texas, Two Granddaughters - Faith Dinning of Garfield, Kansas, Kiley Schlesener of Louisburg, Kansas, One Grandson - Christian Dinning of Ellis, Kansas, One Great Grandson - Jace Schlesener.

She is preceded in death by her Parents and Husband.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717451185385.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Linda A. Dinning, age 74, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado. &nbsp;She was born on October 11, 1949, in Dodge City, Kansas, the daughter of Howard &amp; Joan Harger Koehn. &nbsp;A lifetime resident of Scott City, Kansas, she worked at Park Lane Nursing Home for 16 years in Scott City, Kansas.In 1984 she married David Dinning in Scott City, Kansas. &nbsp;He passed away on September 28, 2006 in Hays, Kansas.She was a member of the Christian Faith.Survivors include her Two Sons - Hank Dinning of Lenexa, Kansas, David J. &amp; Cindi Dinning of Larned, Kansas, One Daughter - Dana Dinning of Plano, Texas, Two Granddaughters - Faith Dinning of Garfield, Kansas, Kiley Schlesener of Louisburg, Kansas, One Grandson - Christian Dinning of Ellis, Kansas, One Great Grandson - Jace Schlesener.She is preceded in death by her Parents and Husband.A private memorial service will be held at a later date.There are no calling times.

Linda Ann Dinning

Patricia “Patti” Ann Schoenthaler (Ruggles) died on March 15th in Hoisington, Kansas. Patti was born on April 17, 1947 in Falls Church, Virginia and was the second of 5 children born to Verlea and Lee Ruggles.&nbsp; Her father was in the Air Force so she and her four siblings traveled extensively.&nbsp; Patti attended Kansas State University where she earned a teaching degree and became a life-long Wildcat.&nbsp; She met Terry Schoenthaler at K-State, and they married on June 1, 1969. Patti and Terry eventually settled at the family farm in Ellis, Kansas.

Patti had an infectious smile and laugh.&nbsp; Her curiosity was contagious, and her mind wanted to know how things worked.&nbsp; She was playful, loved to be outdoors and was a good sport, unless she was playing Monopoly with her siblings.&nbsp; She was a terror on a lawn mower and prided herself on her bonfire capabilities.&nbsp; Most importantly she was somebody you wanted by your side during the tough times.

Patti is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Thomas Ruggles.&nbsp; Surviving family includes her husband, her two sons Chad (Prairie Village, KS) and John and his wife Keriann (Gilroy, CA), her two brothers Charles Ruggles and his wife Teri (Colorado Springs, CO) and Richard Ruggles and his wife Jill (Lewisville, CO), her sister Barbara Pierpont and her husband John (Greenville, NC), three grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp;A celebration of life for Patti will be held at a later date.

A celebration of life will be held at Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis, Kansas on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 6:00 PM. Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS 67637.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Ellis Public Library, Humane Society of the High Plains or Christ Lutheran Church. Donations made payable to the organization may be mailed to Keithley Funeral Homes PO Box 86 Hays, KS 67601.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717449760693.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia “Patti” Ann Schoenthaler (Ruggles) died on March 15th in Hoisington, Kansas. Patti was born on April 17, 1947 in Falls Church, Virginia and was the second of 5 children born to Verlea and Lee Ruggles.&nbsp; Her father was in the Air Force so she and her four siblings traveled extensively.&nbsp; Patti attended Kansas State University where she earned a teaching degree and became a life-long Wildcat.&nbsp; She met Terry Schoenthaler at K-State, and they married on June 1, 1969. Patti and Terry eventually settled at the family farm in Ellis, Kansas.Patti had an infectious smile and laugh.&nbsp; Her curiosity was contagious, and her mind wanted to know how things worked.&nbsp; She was playful, loved to be outdoors and was a good sport, unless she was playing Monopoly with her siblings.&nbsp; She was a terror on a lawn mower and prided herself on her bonfire capabilities.&nbsp; Most importantly she was somebody you wanted by your side during the tough times.Patti is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Thomas Ruggles.&nbsp; Surviving family includes her husband, her two sons Chad (Prairie Village, KS) and John and his wife Keriann (Gilroy, CA), her two brothers Charles Ruggles and his wife Teri (Colorado Springs, CO) and Richard Ruggles and his wife Jill (Lewisville, CO), her sister Barbara Pierpont and her husband John (Greenville, NC), three grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp;A celebration of life for Patti will be held at a later date.A celebration of life will be held at Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis, Kansas on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 6:00 PM. Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS 67637.Memorial contributions are suggested to Ellis Public Library, Humane Society of the High Plains or Christ Lutheran Church. Donations made payable to the organization may be mailed to Keithley Funeral Homes PO Box 86 Hays, KS 67601.Memories and words of comfort may be left on Pat's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Patricia “Patti” Ann Schoenthaler (Ruggles)

Arlene D. Hamel, 87, of Russell, Kansas, died on Sunday, June 02, 2024, at the Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell, Kansas.

Arlene was born on August 10, 1936, in Clyde, Kansas, the daughter of Harvey E. &amp; Marie Rose (L’Ecuyer) Harper. She grew up in Cloud County, Kansas on the family farm, located on the Republican River. She attended country schools until 6th grade, then attended Clyde Grade School and graduated from Clyde High School in 1954. She met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Joseph Ernest Hamel on November 12, 1955, in Clyde, Kansas. From this union Arlene and Ernie were blessed with seven children Lynette, Stan, Barb, Mark, Brian, Brad and Annette. The Hamel family lived in Hays, Kansas for a few years before moving to Russell in 1964. In 1988, Arlene went to work for the Russell County Court House in the court clerks office and retired in 2003. She is a longtime member of St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell and was a member of the St. Mary Church Cemetery Board. She enjoyed sewing, making quilts from used jeans for friends and family, reading and spending time with family. Most of all she enjoyed spending time and playing with her many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving family include her daughter Lynette Gross (Jeff) of Lincoln County, Kansas, son Stan Hamel (Pam) of Leavenworth, Kansas, daughter Barb Hake (Brian) of Omaha, Nebraska, son Mark Hamel (Melanie) of Russell, Kansas, son Brian Hamel (Lisa) of Bunker Hill, Kansas, son Brad Hamel of Papillion, Nebraska and daughter Annette Heald (Tracy) of Omaha, Nebraska; brother Rex Harper (Jolene) of Concordia, Kansas; sister Carolyn Nickerson (Duane) of Omaha, Nebraska; 19 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband J.E. (Ernie) Hamel on January 15, 2004.

A celebration of the funeral mass of Arlene’s Life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, June 06, 2024, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell, Kansas. Burial will follow at the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Russell. Viewing and Visitation will be from 9 A.M to 5 P.M. on Wednesday, June 05, 2024, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary with family greeting guests from 3:30 P.M. to 5 P.M. at the mortuary. A Vigil and Rosary will be held at 7:15 P.M. on Wednesday evening June 05, 2024, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church. Memorials may be given to the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery and sent in care of the mortuary. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Arlene D. Hamel, 87, of Russell, Kansas, died on Sunday, June 02, 2024, at the Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell, Kansas.Arlene was born on August 10, 1936, in Clyde, Kansas, the daughter of Harvey E. &amp; Marie Rose (L’Ecuyer) Harper. She grew up in Cloud County, Kansas on the family farm, located on the Republican River. She attended country schools until 6th grade, then attended Clyde Grade School and graduated from Clyde High School in 1954. She met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Joseph Ernest Hamel on November 12, 1955, in Clyde, Kansas. From this union Arlene and Ernie were blessed with seven children Lynette, Stan, Barb, Mark, Brian, Brad and Annette. The Hamel family lived in Hays, Kansas for a few years before moving to Russell in 1964. In 1988, Arlene went to work for the Russell County Court House in the court clerks office and retired in 2003. She is a longtime member of St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell and was a member of the St. Mary Church Cemetery Board. She enjoyed sewing, making quilts from used jeans for friends and family, reading and spending time with family. Most of all she enjoyed spending time and playing with her many grandchildren and great grandchildren.Surviving family include her daughter Lynette Gross (Jeff) of Lincoln County, Kansas, son Stan Hamel (Pam) of Leavenworth, Kansas, daughter Barb Hake (Brian) of Omaha, Nebraska, son Mark Hamel (Melanie) of Russell, Kansas, son Brian Hamel (Lisa) of Bunker Hill, Kansas, son Brad Hamel of Papillion, Nebraska and daughter Annette Heald (Tracy) of Omaha, Nebraska; brother Rex Harper (Jolene) of Concordia, Kansas; sister Carolyn Nickerson (Duane) of Omaha, Nebraska; 19 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents and husband J.E. (Ernie) Hamel on January 15, 2004.A celebration of the funeral mass of Arlene’s Life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, June 06, 2024, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell, Kansas. Burial will follow at the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Russell. Viewing and Visitation will be from 9 A.M to 5 P.M. on Wednesday, June 05, 2024, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary with family greeting guests from 3:30 P.M. to 5 P.M. at the mortuary. A Vigil and Rosary will be held at 7:15 P.M. on Wednesday evening June 05, 2024, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church. Memorials may be given to the St. Mary Catholic Cemetery and sent in care of the mortuary. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Arlene D. Hamel

Shirley Pundsack, 79, passed away June 2, 2024, at her home in Great Bend, Kansas. Shirley was born June 9, 1944, in Quinter, Kansas, to Titus and Matilda (Herzog) Kuntz. After high school in 1962, Shirley moved to Great Bend and married her husband Don Pundsack on April 19, 1969.

Shirley worked for dentist Dr. Reinhardt after moving to Great Bend. She then went to beauty school and had her own beauty shop, Hair Fashions, for 15 years. Shirley was co-owner of Moeder Oil and the office manager from 1980 to 2000 when she retired. Shirley enjoyed going to concerts like Neil Diamond and Jimmy Buffet, and enjoyed traveling. She was very giving and enjoyed helping others, whether it be providing a meal for a group or donating money.

Shirley is survived by her husband Don of Great Bend; three sisters, Caroline Vonfeldt, Nancy Jane Kuntz O.P., and Roma Lea and husband George Michel; brothers-in-law, Larry Boor and Don Sherman; and many nieces and nephews.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Doreen Boor and Maxine Sherman; and nephew, Andrew Sherman.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 10, 2024, at St. Rose Of Lima Catholic Church, Great Bend, with Father Aneesh Parappanattu presiding. Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd, Great Bend, KS, 67530.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717448299123.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Shirley Pundsack, 79, passed away June 2, 2024, at her home in Great Bend, Kansas. Shirley was born June 9, 1944, in Quinter, Kansas, to Titus and Matilda (Herzog) Kuntz. After high school in 1962, Shirley moved to Great Bend and married her husband Don Pundsack on April 19, 1969.Shirley worked for dentist Dr. Reinhardt after moving to Great Bend. She then went to beauty school and had her own beauty shop, Hair Fashions, for 15 years. Shirley was co-owner of Moeder Oil and the office manager from 1980 to 2000 when she retired. Shirley enjoyed going to concerts like Neil Diamond and Jimmy Buffet, and enjoyed traveling. She was very giving and enjoyed helping others, whether it be providing a meal for a group or donating money.Shirley is survived by her husband Don of Great Bend; three sisters, Caroline Vonfeldt, Nancy Jane Kuntz O.P., and Roma Lea and husband George Michel; brothers-in-law, Larry Boor and Don Sherman; and many nieces and nephews.Shirley is preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Doreen Boor and Maxine Sherman; and nephew, Andrew Sherman.Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 10, 2024, at St. Rose Of Lima Catholic Church, Great Bend, with Father Aneesh Parappanattu presiding. Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd, Great Bend, KS, 67530.

Shirley Pundsack, age 79

Joe Allen Zink, 75, passed away May 30, 2024 in Larned in the same home he grew up in.

He was born July 2, 1948 in Great Bend, the son of F. Lloyd and Eleanor Berglund Zink. &nbsp;A lifetime area resident, he was a retired MHDD from Larned State Hospital. &nbsp;

He was of the Christian faith, graduated from the University of Kansas with a Bachelors Degree in Journalism. &nbsp;He was a sports fan, especially KU, KC Chiefs and KC Royals. &nbsp;He liked reading, history, science and was an amateur astronomer. &nbsp;His greatest joy in life was being a dad and grandpa, spending time with his kids and grandkids.

On February 14, 1976 he married Mary Ann Reames. &nbsp;She survives.

Other survivors include; his children, Step-Son, Richard (Keena) Davis, Wichita, son Ryan (Amanda) Zink, Highlands Ranch, CO, a daughter, Andrea (Kris) Henkhaus, Olathe, and son, Adrian Zink, Overland Park; eleven grandchildren; Austin Davis, Jadon Davis, Lucas Rauscher, Max Rauscher, Icen Zink, Simone Zink, Logan Rauscher, Xavier Zink, Dewell Zink, Niobe Zink, Zelia Zink and five step-grandchildren, Alyssa Wichman, Rylen Hansen, William Henkhaus, Jon Henkhaus and Steven Henkhaus.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Larry Zink.

Cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held at a later date.

Beckwith Mortuary, Inc. P.O. Box 477, Larned, Kansas is in charge of arrangements and personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717360375592.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joe Allen Zink, 75, passed away May 30, 2024 in Larned in the same home he grew up in.He was born July 2, 1948 in Great Bend, the son of F. Lloyd and Eleanor Berglund Zink. &nbsp;A lifetime area resident, he was a retired MHDD from Larned State Hospital. &nbsp;He was of the Christian faith, graduated from the University of Kansas with a Bachelors Degree in Journalism. &nbsp;He was a sports fan, especially KU, KC Chiefs and KC Royals. &nbsp;He liked reading, history, science and was an amateur astronomer. &nbsp;His greatest joy in life was being a dad and grandpa, spending time with his kids and grandkids.On February 14, 1976 he married Mary Ann Reames. &nbsp;She survives.Other survivors include; his children, Step-Son, Richard (Keena) Davis, Wichita, son Ryan (Amanda) Zink, Highlands Ranch, CO, a daughter, Andrea (Kris) Henkhaus, Olathe, and son, Adrian Zink, Overland Park; eleven grandchildren; Austin Davis, Jadon Davis, Lucas Rauscher, Max Rauscher, Icen Zink, Simone Zink, Logan Rauscher, Xavier Zink, Dewell Zink, Niobe Zink, Zelia Zink and five step-grandchildren, Alyssa Wichman, Rylen Hansen, William Henkhaus, Jon Henkhaus and Steven Henkhaus.He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Larry Zink.Cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held at a later date.Beckwith Mortuary, Inc. P.O. Box 477, Larned, Kansas is in charge of arrangements and personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Joe Allen Zink

Larned – John Dwight Moore, 68, of Larned, passed away on May 3, 2024 in Larned.

He was born July 29, 1955 in Larned, the son of Alfred Raymond and Laura Belle Ullom Moore.

A lifetime area resident, he was a Power Plant Operator for Sunflower Electric Power Corporation. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, NRA, SRCA Dragstrip and lifetime member of Ft. Larned Arms Association. For 30 plus years did ET Bracket Drag Racing. John also enjoyed bowling.

On May 30, 1980 he married Brenda Sharp, in Larned; she preceded him in death.

Survivors include: one son, Chris Moore, Larned; and cousin, Norma Jean O’Neal, Kansas City, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife.

Cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.

Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717360317208.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Larned – John Dwight Moore, 68, of Larned, passed away on May 3, 2024 in Larned.He was born July 29, 1955 in Larned, the son of Alfred Raymond and Laura Belle Ullom Moore.A lifetime area resident, he was a Power Plant Operator for Sunflower Electric Power Corporation. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, NRA, SRCA Dragstrip and lifetime member of Ft. Larned Arms Association. For 30 plus years did ET Bracket Drag Racing. John also enjoyed bowling.On May 30, 1980 he married Brenda Sharp, in Larned; she preceded him in death.Survivors include: one son, Chris Moore, Larned; and cousin, Norma Jean O’Neal, Kansas City, Missouri.He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife.Cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.&nbsp;

John Dwight Moore

Sharon Sue Carlson (Wayman/Savage), 86, of Lenexa, Kansas passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 28th, 2024.

Sharon was born January 3, 1938, to Charles and Frances Wayman in El Dorado, Kansas. Sharon enjoyed a happy childhood with her parents and brother Glenn in El Dorado but contracted polio at the age of ten. This left her with one leg that was slightly shorter than the other, but that didn’t stop her from dancing and cheerleading in high school. She was very sociable, always surrounded by friends. When gathering constantly across the span of 60 years with those same high school friends, they referred to themselves simply as ‘The Gang’. Sharon went on to study at Butler County Community College where she was a cheerleader. While at Butler County, Sharon met another student, Donald Savage, a football player from Texas, and they were married in 1958.

Don joined the military, and Sharon lived in numerous places while he served as an officer in Army Intelligence. They lived in six different states, with a two-year stint in Germany as well. They had two children: Marcy, in 1963, and Greg in 1968. This began Sharon’s lifelong love of travel both with the moves, but also the yearly two-week long family driving vacations all over the United States. After Don’s retirement from the military, Sharon’s life took another change when in 1981, they decided to divorce. At that point Sharon moved from Santa Barbara, California to Hays, Kansas with Marcy and Greg. She then began a long and fulfilling career, working for the Hays Public Library. Sharon was an avid reader (a hobby she passed on to her children) her entire life, so her career at the library mirrored her passion for all types of books. Sharon’s greatest loves were her children and grandchildren. Almost every single vacation day was spent visiting them. Watching sporting events, reading at their schools, and sometimes even being a prop to scare the kids’ friends in their Halloween haunted houses. Her love language was thoughtful giving, and she got such joy in doing so. In 2002 Sharon retired to travel, read, and spend time with her grandchildren. Sharon always loved to sing and dance and had sung in the First United Methodist Church choir in Hays over the years. It was at that church she would discover love in her golden years to Earl Carlson. They met in a ‘Keenagers’ group at church, were married in 2011, until Earl’s death in 2020. They enjoyed playing bridge, European travel and travelling to see their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Glenn Wayman, an infant brother, Charles Ronald, and her beloved husband Earl Carlson. She is survived by her daughter Marcy Gansel (Chris) of Hill City, Kansas and son Greg Savage (Tiffany) of Lenexa; grandchildren: Emily Gansel of Austin, Texas, Megan Walker (Colton) of Kansas City, Kansas, Ethan Gansel of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, Dylan Gansel of Hill City, Ben and Nick Savage of Lenexa; three great grandchildren: Jeremiah, Zella and Wesley Walker of Kansas City, Kansas; and her brother Glenn’s children: Ricky, Michelle, Rob and their families.

Her arrangements are being handled by Stinemetz Funeral Home, Hill City, Kansas with a graveside ceremony and burial Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 3.30 p.m. at Memorial Lawn Cemetery, Hill City, Kansas where Sharon will rest eternally. Donations in Sharon’s memory can be made to the Graham County Public Library or the Hays Public Library. The family wishes to thank everyone at Ascend Hospice, Brookdale Memory Care and Benton House, Lenexa for their loving care and friendship to Sharon.

Sharon Sue Carlson (Wayman/Savage), 86, of Lenexa, Kansas passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 28th, 2024.Sharon was born January 3, 1938, to Charles and Frances Wayman in El Dorado, Kansas. Sharon enjoyed a happy childhood with her parents and brother Glenn in El Dorado but contracted polio at the age of ten. This left her with one leg that was slightly shorter than the other, but that didn’t stop her from dancing and cheerleading in high school. She was very sociable, always surrounded by friends. When gathering constantly across the span of 60 years with those same high school friends, they referred to themselves simply as ‘The Gang’. Sharon went on to study at Butler County Community College where she was a cheerleader. While at Butler County, Sharon met another student, Donald Savage, a football player from Texas, and they were married in 1958.Don joined the military, and Sharon lived in numerous places while he served as an officer in Army Intelligence. They lived in six different states, with a two-year stint in Germany as well. They had two children: Marcy, in 1963, and Greg in 1968. This began Sharon’s lifelong love of travel both with the moves, but also the yearly two-week long family driving vacations all over the United States. After Don’s retirement from the military, Sharon’s life took another change when in 1981, they decided to divorce. At that point Sharon moved from Santa Barbara, California to Hays, Kansas with Marcy and Greg. She then began a long and fulfilling career, working for the Hays Public Library. Sharon was an avid reader (a hobby she passed on to her children) her entire life, so her career at the library mirrored her passion for all types of books. Sharon’s greatest loves were her children and grandchildren. Almost every single vacation day was spent visiting them. Watching sporting events, reading at their schools, and sometimes even being a prop to scare the kids’ friends in their Halloween haunted houses. Her love language was thoughtful giving, and she got such joy in doing so. In 2002 Sharon retired to travel, read, and spend time with her grandchildren. Sharon always loved to sing and dance and had sung in the First United Methodist Church choir in Hays over the years. It was at that church she would discover love in her golden years to Earl Carlson. They met in a ‘Keenagers’ group at church, were married in 2011, until Earl’s death in 2020. They enjoyed playing bridge, European travel and travelling to see their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Glenn Wayman, an infant brother, Charles Ronald, and her beloved husband Earl Carlson. She is survived by her daughter Marcy Gansel (Chris) of Hill City, Kansas and son Greg Savage (Tiffany) of Lenexa; grandchildren: Emily Gansel of Austin, Texas, Megan Walker (Colton) of Kansas City, Kansas, Ethan Gansel of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, Dylan Gansel of Hill City, Ben and Nick Savage of Lenexa; three great grandchildren: Jeremiah, Zella and Wesley Walker of Kansas City, Kansas; and her brother Glenn’s children: Ricky, Michelle, Rob and their families.Her arrangements are being handled by Stinemetz Funeral Home, Hill City, Kansas with a graveside ceremony and burial Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 3.30 p.m. at Memorial Lawn Cemetery, Hill City, Kansas where Sharon will rest eternally. Donations in Sharon’s memory can be made to the Graham County Public Library or the Hays Public Library. The family wishes to thank everyone at Ascend Hospice, Brookdale Memory Care and Benton House, Lenexa for their loving care and friendship to Sharon.

Sharon Sue Carlson (Wayman/Savage)

Reta Gayle Barlow (Heisel) was born November 2nd, 1947, in Oberlin, Kansas, and blessed the gates of Heaven on May 28th, 2024. She was the fifth of eight children born to Ralph Howard and Veda Iola Heisel (Black). She attended Oberlin Elementary and Decatur County High School. She received her GED in Norton, KS in 2010. On August 28th, 1965, Reta was united in marriage to Michael James Barlow, ““OLD MAN”. Together they raised five wonderful children, were enthusiastic fans of their children’s many activities, and always welcomed friends into their home with open arms. They lived in several states before settling in Lenora, Kansas in July of 1978.

Reta worked at the Fifth Wheel Restaurant in Oberlin, Kansas, until moving to Lenora where she worked at United Casing Crew, Karen’s Café, Senior Center, the school cafeteria, and for the City of Lenora. Her hobbies included arts and crafts such as keychains, jewelry, Jacob’s Ladder blocks, magic loops, painted pumpkins, and gourds pictures, and she loved creating costumes for events. She loved fishing on the pontoon with family and friends, finding treasures such as rocks, shells, and petrified wood. Reta gained a deep love of music while listening to her family members play and sing and always had a radio nearby. She carried on a long tradition of making beautiful quilts for the grandchildren. Reta had an uncanny ability to entertain even the most precocious of children for hours on end.

Reta was preceded in death by her parents, brother Loyal Ralph Heisel, and grandchildren Brett Michael Barlow, Chelsea Marie Barlow, and Cody James Barlow. Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Mike Barlow, children Troy (and Lori) Barlow of Newton, Kansas, Teresa (and Kelly) Jones of Baker, Florida, Trendy (and Rex) Striggow of Norton, Kansas, Tracy (and Angie) Barlow of Bloomfield, Indiana and Trevor (and Lisa) Barlow of Lenora, Kansas. Also left to cherish her memory are 16 grandchildren and 22 greatgrandchildren, siblings Verle Heisel of Log Lane, Colorado, Karen Carpenter of Norton, Kansas, Vivan (and Vicky) Heisel of Brush, Colorado, David Heisel of Oberlin, Kansas, Lorena (and Larry) Taylor of Lenora, Kansas, Connie (and Denis) Shea of Post Falls, Idaho and many, many dear relatives and friends.

Reta Gayle Barlow (Heisel) was born November 2nd, 1947, in Oberlin, Kansas, and blessed the gates of Heaven on May 28th, 2024. She was the fifth of eight children born to Ralph Howard and Veda Iola Heisel (Black). She attended Oberlin Elementary and Decatur County High School. She received her GED in Norton, KS in 2010. On August 28th, 1965, Reta was united in marriage to Michael James Barlow, ““OLD MAN”. Together they raised five wonderful children, were enthusiastic fans of their children’s many activities, and always welcomed friends into their home with open arms. They lived in several states before settling in Lenora, Kansas in July of 1978.Reta worked at the Fifth Wheel Restaurant in Oberlin, Kansas, until moving to Lenora where she worked at United Casing Crew, Karen’s Café, Senior Center, the school cafeteria, and for the City of Lenora. Her hobbies included arts and crafts such as keychains, jewelry, Jacob’s Ladder blocks, magic loops, painted pumpkins, and gourds pictures, and she loved creating costumes for events. She loved fishing on the pontoon with family and friends, finding treasures such as rocks, shells, and petrified wood. Reta gained a deep love of music while listening to her family members play and sing and always had a radio nearby. She carried on a long tradition of making beautiful quilts for the grandchildren. Reta had an uncanny ability to entertain even the most precocious of children for hours on end.Reta was preceded in death by her parents, brother Loyal Ralph Heisel, and grandchildren Brett Michael Barlow, Chelsea Marie Barlow, and Cody James Barlow. Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Mike Barlow, children Troy (and Lori) Barlow of Newton, Kansas, Teresa (and Kelly) Jones of Baker, Florida, Trendy (and Rex) Striggow of Norton, Kansas, Tracy (and Angie) Barlow of Bloomfield, Indiana and Trevor (and Lisa) Barlow of Lenora, Kansas. Also left to cherish her memory are 16 grandchildren and 22 greatgrandchildren, siblings Verle Heisel of Log Lane, Colorado, Karen Carpenter of Norton, Kansas, Vivan (and Vicky) Heisel of Brush, Colorado, David Heisel of Oberlin, Kansas, Lorena (and Larry) Taylor of Lenora, Kansas, Connie (and Denis) Shea of Post Falls, Idaho and many, many dear relatives and friends.

Reta Gayle Barlow (Heisel)

Thomas Dean Schertz, 82, of Winona, Kansas, passed away on May 30, 2024. Tom was born on the farm in rural Thomas County on January 9, 1942, to Bill and Florence (Berry) Schertz.

Tom went to school in Page City then Winona High School before beginning one of his life’s greatest joys: leading his family farm and cultivating God’s land to feed the world. To Tom, farming was not just his family’s livelihood, but his hobby and his passion. In a lifetime of farming, technology constantly changed, and Tom not only embraced the changes, but was excited about every new step forward. Tom always said, “The only thing about the good ole days, they are gone.” Tom considered himself retired when he sold the cows. However, Tom never retired from farming. This was evident in a million ways, but especially when he started a silage cutting business in his late 50’s-60’s. At one time the whole crew was over 65 years of age. His farm and love of farming will continue through his grandson, Brett Gfeller.

On December 21, 1963, Tom was united in marriage with the love of his life, Nancy Ann Atkinson. The couple recently celebrated 60 years of marriage with family and friends by their side. It was said by his nephew – “if you saw Tom, you saw Nancy.” From their union was born three daughters: Julie Sue (Kurt) Maurath of Oakley, Cindy Ann (Kent) Gfeller of Winona, and Kandy Dea (Andy) Kwapnioski of Marysville. Tom’s family was his pride and joy, and he loved family get-togethers and any chance to bond over a game of cards. Thanksgiving was always a “big” event at the farm. Extended family always knew they were invited. Food was abundant, stories extravagant and pitch was almost always the game of choice.Tom loved being a grandpa. He was always excited to spend time with his grandkids and the first to cheer them on in whatever adventure was ahead of them.

Most important to Tom was his relationship with Christ. Tom and Nancy were baptized in Scott City, because the Church of Christ did not have a building at the time. Tom and others were instrumental in buying the building in Oakley and starting a new congregation. He was involved from the beginning throughout his life. Tom took seriously his role as a Christian and strived to make sure that everybody he met knew and built a relationship with Jesus. His faith was evident in everything he did. There was never a family gathering where Tom didn’t pause the family for a prayer before the meal, no matter how full the house was.

Tom had a love for anything fast. He loved to drive fast, whether it was in his car, a ’59 red and white Ford, or later on the seat of a motorcycle. He raced motorcycles locally and sold them for a short time with David Gfeller (years later David’s son Kent would marry Tom’s daughter, Cindy). For years here was an annual motorcycle trip with church friends to the mountains of Colorado. The kids actually got to go once where they would ride 4 on 1 bike across the trails and the continental divide. Tom was always ready for a trip. In later years, Tom and Nancy would find themselves driving without a plan but always finding implement dealerships.

Tom and Nancy did everything together including getting their pilots licenses. He loved to fly and would even check cattle on the ranch with low flying maneuvers.

Always an entrepreneur, in the 90’s after selling his plane, he began a mower business (maybe because it gave him hours and hours to visit with people at garden and farm shows). The 3-I show was a “National Holiday” and was never missed. When he could no longer walk for miles, he would rent a golf cart or use his scooter. No matter what, he wanted to go!

Tom knew the value of a hard days’ work, never met a stranger, always had a smile and a joke to tell, and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He not only lived out these values but passed them down to his children and grandchildren.

Tom is survived by his wife of the home; his three daughters and sons-in-law; three sisters: Verla Moser of Colby, Shirley Cranston of Colby, and Kathy Haug of Long Beach, Washington; sister-in-law Lila Greene of Oakley; nine grandchildren: Adam (Jannessa) Maurath of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Leigh Ann (Abraham) Pfannenstiel of Oakley; Michael (Katherine) Maurath of Manhattan; Amberly (Jeff) Hennick of Oakley; Brett (Jill) Gfeller of Winona; Ryan (Cassidy) Gfeller of Garden City; and Wylde, Cash, and Ruby Kwapnioski of Marysville; and six great-grandchildren: Dawsyn, Sawyer and Hollynd Hennick and Bennelli, Walker and Carli Gfeller.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his mother and father-in-law, and four brothers-in law.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 2 from 5-7 pm at the Baalmann Mortuary in Oakley. Celebration of Life services will be held on Monday, June 3 at 10:00 a.m. at Church of Christ in Oakley with internment in the Winona Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Church of Christ, Oakley and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701.

Thomas Dean Schertz, 82, of Winona, Kansas, passed away on May 30, 2024. Tom was born on the farm in rural Thomas County on January 9, 1942, to Bill and Florence (Berry) Schertz.Tom went to school in Page City then Winona High School before beginning one of his life’s greatest joys: leading his family farm and cultivating God’s land to feed the world. To Tom, farming was not just his family’s livelihood, but his hobby and his passion. In a lifetime of farming, technology constantly changed, and Tom not only embraced the changes, but was excited about every new step forward. Tom always said, “The only thing about the good ole days, they are gone.” Tom considered himself retired when he sold the cows. However, Tom never retired from farming. This was evident in a million ways, but especially when he started a silage cutting business in his late 50’s-60’s. At one time the whole crew was over 65 years of age. His farm and love of farming will continue through his grandson, Brett Gfeller.On December 21, 1963, Tom was united in marriage with the love of his life, Nancy Ann Atkinson. The couple recently celebrated 60 years of marriage with family and friends by their side. It was said by his nephew – “if you saw Tom, you saw Nancy.” From their union was born three daughters: Julie Sue (Kurt) Maurath of Oakley, Cindy Ann (Kent) Gfeller of Winona, and Kandy Dea (Andy) Kwapnioski of Marysville. Tom’s family was his pride and joy, and he loved family get-togethers and any chance to bond over a game of cards. Thanksgiving was always a “big” event at the farm. Extended family always knew they were invited. Food was abundant, stories extravagant and pitch was almost always the game of choice.Tom loved being a grandpa. He was always excited to spend time with his grandkids and the first to cheer them on in whatever adventure was ahead of them.Most important to Tom was his relationship with Christ. Tom and Nancy were baptized in Scott City, because the Church of Christ did not have a building at the time. Tom and others were instrumental in buying the building in Oakley and starting a new congregation. He was involved from the beginning throughout his life. Tom took seriously his role as a Christian and strived to make sure that everybody he met knew and built a relationship with Jesus. His faith was evident in everything he did. There was never a family gathering where Tom didn’t pause the family for a prayer before the meal, no matter how full the house was.Tom had a love for anything fast. He loved to drive fast, whether it was in his car, a ’59 red and white Ford, or later on the seat of a motorcycle. He raced motorcycles locally and sold them for a short time with David Gfeller (years later David’s son Kent would marry Tom’s daughter, Cindy). For years here was an annual motorcycle trip with church friends to the mountains of Colorado. The kids actually got to go once where they would ride 4 on 1 bike across the trails and the continental divide. Tom was always ready for a trip. In later years, Tom and Nancy would find themselves driving without a plan but always finding implement dealerships.Tom and Nancy did everything together including getting their pilots licenses. He loved to fly and would even check cattle on the ranch with low flying maneuvers.Always an entrepreneur, in the 90’s after selling his plane, he began a mower business (maybe because it gave him hours and hours to visit with people at garden and farm shows). The 3-I show was a “National Holiday” and was never missed. When he could no longer walk for miles, he would rent a golf cart or use his scooter. No matter what, he wanted to go!Tom knew the value of a hard days’ work, never met a stranger, always had a smile and a joke to tell, and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He not only lived out these values but passed them down to his children and grandchildren.Tom is survived by his wife of the home; his three daughters and sons-in-law; three sisters: Verla Moser of Colby, Shirley Cranston of Colby, and Kathy Haug of Long Beach, Washington; sister-in-law Lila Greene of Oakley; nine grandchildren: Adam (Jannessa) Maurath of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Leigh Ann (Abraham) Pfannenstiel of Oakley; Michael (Katherine) Maurath of Manhattan; Amberly (Jeff) Hennick of Oakley; Brett (Jill) Gfeller of Winona; Ryan (Cassidy) Gfeller of Garden City; and Wylde, Cash, and Ruby Kwapnioski of Marysville; and six great-grandchildren: Dawsyn, Sawyer and Hollynd Hennick and Bennelli, Walker and Carli Gfeller.He is preceded in death by his parents, his mother and father-in-law, and four brothers-in law.A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 2 from 5-7 pm at the Baalmann Mortuary in Oakley. Celebration of Life services will be held on Monday, June 3 at 10:00 a.m. at Church of Christ in Oakley with internment in the Winona Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Church of Christ, Oakley and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701.

Thomas Dean Schertz

Donald Craig Donecker, 66, passed away June 1, 2024, at his home in Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;He was born October 1, 1957, in Great Bend, to Donald and Carolyn (Drews) Donecker. &nbsp;Craig married Anna Keffer Oct. 5, 1974, in Great Bend.

Craig, a longtime resident of Great Bend living in Claflin from 1976 - 2005, had owned and operated Little Giant Fittings Company since 1995. &nbsp;Prior to operating Little Giant Fittings, Craig worked for Rice Engineering. &nbsp;He was a member of Our Saviour Lutheran Church and Claflin Lions Club. Craig enjoyed pheasant, deer, and duck hunting, fishing, and wrenching on his VW dune buggies. &nbsp;Above all, he treasured time spent with his family. &nbsp;Being civically minded, Craig held a high regard for Lions International, administrating many state-wide events as Past District Governor.

Survivors include wife Anna Donecker of the home; two sons, Jonathan Donecker and wife Misty of Pawnee Rock, Kan.; and Jeffery Donecker and wife Megan of Claflin; five grandchildren, Hunter, Gage, Temprance, Philip, and JoAnna Donecker; one brother, Kevin Donecker and wife Elaine of Claflin; one sister, Cherlyn Maier and husband Rodney of Claflin; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 6, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church, Ellinwood, Kan., with Rev. Kenton Abbott presiding.&nbsp; Interment will follow at Claflin Cemetery, Claflin.&nbsp; Visitation will be held 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 4, and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, 2024, with the family receiving friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home, Great Bend. &nbsp;Memorials may be given to Kansas Lions Foundation or Our Saviour Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS &nbsp;67530.

Donald Craig Donecker, 66, passed away June 1, 2024, at his home in Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;He was born October 1, 1957, in Great Bend, to Donald and Carolyn (Drews) Donecker. &nbsp;Craig married Anna Keffer Oct. 5, 1974, in Great Bend.Craig, a longtime resident of Great Bend living in Claflin from 1976 - 2005, had owned and operated Little Giant Fittings Company since 1995. &nbsp;Prior to operating Little Giant Fittings, Craig worked for Rice Engineering. &nbsp;He was a member of Our Saviour Lutheran Church and Claflin Lions Club. Craig enjoyed pheasant, deer, and duck hunting, fishing, and wrenching on his VW dune buggies. &nbsp;Above all, he treasured time spent with his family. &nbsp;Being civically minded, Craig held a high regard for Lions International, administrating many state-wide events as Past District Governor.Survivors include wife Anna Donecker of the home; two sons, Jonathan Donecker and wife Misty of Pawnee Rock, Kan.; and Jeffery Donecker and wife Megan of Claflin; five grandchildren, Hunter, Gage, Temprance, Philip, and JoAnna Donecker; one brother, Kevin Donecker and wife Elaine of Claflin; one sister, Cherlyn Maier and husband Rodney of Claflin; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 6, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church, Ellinwood, Kan., with Rev. Kenton Abbott presiding.&nbsp; Interment will follow at Claflin Cemetery, Claflin.&nbsp; Visitation will be held 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 4, and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, 2024, with the family receiving friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home, Great Bend. &nbsp;Memorials may be given to Kansas Lions Foundation or Our Saviour Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS &nbsp;67530.

Donald Craig Donecker

Kathleen Ann “Kathy” McFarren, 71, passed away Thursday, May 30, 2024, at her home in Great Bend, Kansas. She was born on October 29, 1952, in Hoisington, Kansas, to Elmer and Elsie (Moeder) Hill, and was lovingly nicknamed “Kitten”. On December 26, 1970, she married Terry McFarren in Goodland, Kansas.

A resident of Great Bend for 53 years, Kathy was a homemaker, being very dedicated to having a clean home. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Kathy was an avid reader, and loved her family, especially spoiling her grandchildren, and her dogs, specifically Grace.&nbsp;

Survivors include her husband of the home; two sons, Troy McFarren and wife Shelly of Great Bend, and Travis McFarren and wife Marina of Castle Rock, Colorado; eight grandchildren, Trey, Trenton, Camron, Kenda, Tyler, Makayla, Emily and Garrett; ten great grandchildren; three brothers, David Hill and wife Jolene of Great Bend, Peter Hill and wife Jen, of Phoenix, Arizona, and Tim Hill and wife Katie of Phoenix, Arizona; two sisters, Mary Channell of Great Bend, and Betsy Edwards and husband John of Wamego; and former sister-in-law, Tina (Mallette) Hill of Phoenix, Arizona.

She is preceded in death by her parents; and brother, John Hill.

Memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Father Warren Stecklein presiding. Memorials have been designated to Dementia Society of America or American Cancer Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.

Kathleen Ann “Kathy” McFarren, 71, passed away Thursday, May 30, 2024, at her home in Great Bend, Kansas. She was born on October 29, 1952, in Hoisington, Kansas, to Elmer and Elsie (Moeder) Hill, and was lovingly nicknamed “Kitten”. On December 26, 1970, she married Terry McFarren in Goodland, Kansas.A resident of Great Bend for 53 years, Kathy was a homemaker, being very dedicated to having a clean home. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Kathy was an avid reader, and loved her family, especially spoiling her grandchildren, and her dogs, specifically Grace.&nbsp;Survivors include her husband of the home; two sons, Troy McFarren and wife Shelly of Great Bend, and Travis McFarren and wife Marina of Castle Rock, Colorado; eight grandchildren, Trey, Trenton, Camron, Kenda, Tyler, Makayla, Emily and Garrett; ten great grandchildren; three brothers, David Hill and wife Jolene of Great Bend, Peter Hill and wife Jen, of Phoenix, Arizona, and Tim Hill and wife Katie of Phoenix, Arizona; two sisters, Mary Channell of Great Bend, and Betsy Edwards and husband John of Wamego; and former sister-in-law, Tina (Mallette) Hill of Phoenix, Arizona.She is preceded in death by her parents; and brother, John Hill.Memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Father Warren Stecklein presiding. Memorials have been designated to Dementia Society of America or American Cancer Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.

Kathleen Ann “Kathy” McFarren

Lifelong Wallace, Kansas resident Goldie Louise (Lock) Daily, passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at&nbsp;Hope Springs Care Home in Sharon Springs, KS. &nbsp;She was 91.

Goldie was born October 9, 1932 to Cecil Clyde Lock and Frances Mabel (Collins) Lock on the family farm in rural Wallace County, West of Wallace on Pond Creek. She was brought into the world by her great grandmother Emily Collins. The oldest of 10 children she was a loving, caring helper to her parents.

She attended 1st-8th grade at Wallace Grade School. Goldie completed 7th and 8th grade in one school term. She was very proud of this accomplishment. She graduated from Wallace County Community High School in 1949.&nbsp;

On November 5, 1950 she married S.L. Daily on the Lock family farm. Together Goldie and S.L. had a loving home and marriage for 65 years. To this marriage 7 children were born.&nbsp;

Goldie was a homemaker until 1972 when she began a 20-year career as the cook at Wallace Grade School until retiring in 1992.

&nbsp;She was a member of the Sharon Springs Methodist Church, the Busy Bee Women’s Club and a 4-H leader. Many 4-Hers were fortunate to be guided by her as she shared her gifts of cooking and sewing. Late nights were spent sewing perfectly tailored clothes for her children. Goldie was known for the beautiful wedding cakes she made for family, friends and members of the community. She enjoyed working in her large vegetable and flower gardens. It brought her great joy to host family gatherings as well as extended visits from nieces, nephews and of course her grandchildren. Even in her later years, she looked forward to attending the county fair with her family. You could find her in the gym supporting local sporting events of her children and grandchildren as recent as 5 months ago. Goldie was honored to be featured in the book, “Raising the West”, a collection of experiences and stories shared by several women from the community.&nbsp;

She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, sisters Gladys and Gloria, and several brother and sister-in-laws.&nbsp;

She is survived by her children; Lynn (Kathy) Daily El Dorado, KS, Curtis (Melinda) Daily, Wallace, KS, Gail (Dan) Lewis, Dresden, KS, Ann (Fred) Husband, New Caney, TX, Laura (Daryl) Stegman, Spearville, KS, David (Jori) Daily, Sharon Springs, KS and Edith (Trevor) Jensen, St. George, KS. &nbsp;

She is also survived by 26 grandchildren; Nicole Daily, Terin (Kelly) Walters, Chanity and Joshua Daily, Brent Hensley, Jeremy (Bethany) Samson, Jeffrey (Misty) Samson, Kyle Lewis, Dustin (Dee) Lewis, Jay (Heather) Lewis, Evan Husband, Dara Bruins, Jessica Stegman, Katie (Brad) Rice, Cayden (Jenna) Daily, Jaelyn Daily, Logan (Tayler) Jensen and Allie Jensen; 11 great grandchildren and 1 great great-grandchild.&nbsp;

Other surviving family members include her siblings; Georgia Pancake, Sharon Springs, KS, Clydene Young, Salina , KS, Leon (Patty) Lock, Wallace, KS, Lee (Pauline) Lock, Wallace, KS, Elaine Fischer, Sharon Springs, KS, Larry (Sharon) Lock, Scott City, KS and Dale (Judy) Lock, Saginaw, TX and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made out to the Wallace County 4-H and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

Lifelong Wallace, Kansas resident Goldie Louise (Lock) Daily, passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at&nbsp;Hope Springs Care Home in Sharon Springs, KS. &nbsp;She was 91.Goldie was born October 9, 1932 to Cecil Clyde Lock and Frances Mabel (Collins) Lock on the family farm in rural Wallace County, West of Wallace on Pond Creek. She was brought into the world by her great grandmother Emily Collins. The oldest of 10 children she was a loving, caring helper to her parents.She attended 1st-8th grade at Wallace Grade School. Goldie completed 7th and 8th grade in one school term. She was very proud of this accomplishment. She graduated from Wallace County Community High School in 1949.&nbsp;On November 5, 1950 she married S.L. Daily on the Lock family farm. Together Goldie and S.L. had a loving home and marriage for 65 years. To this marriage 7 children were born.&nbsp;Goldie was a homemaker until 1972 when she began a 20-year career as the cook at Wallace Grade School until retiring in 1992.&nbsp;She was a member of the Sharon Springs Methodist Church, the Busy Bee Women’s Club and a 4-H leader. Many 4-Hers were fortunate to be guided by her as she shared her gifts of cooking and sewing. Late nights were spent sewing perfectly tailored clothes for her children. Goldie was known for the beautiful wedding cakes she made for family, friends and members of the community. She enjoyed working in her large vegetable and flower gardens. It brought her great joy to host family gatherings as well as extended visits from nieces, nephews and of course her grandchildren. Even in her later years, she looked forward to attending the county fair with her family. You could find her in the gym supporting local sporting events of her children and grandchildren as recent as 5 months ago. Goldie was honored to be featured in the book, “Raising the West”, a collection of experiences and stories shared by several women from the community.&nbsp;She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, sisters Gladys and Gloria, and several brother and sister-in-laws.&nbsp;She is survived by her children; Lynn (Kathy) Daily El Dorado, KS, Curtis (Melinda) Daily, Wallace, KS, Gail (Dan) Lewis, Dresden, KS, Ann (Fred) Husband, New Caney, TX, Laura (Daryl) Stegman, Spearville, KS, David (Jori) Daily, Sharon Springs, KS and Edith (Trevor) Jensen, St. George, KS. &nbsp;She is also survived by 26 grandchildren; Nicole Daily, Terin (Kelly) Walters, Chanity and Joshua Daily, Brent Hensley, Jeremy (Bethany) Samson, Jeffrey (Misty) Samson, Kyle Lewis, Dustin (Dee) Lewis, Jay (Heather) Lewis, Evan Husband, Dara Bruins, Jessica Stegman, Katie (Brad) Rice, Cayden (Jenna) Daily, Jaelyn Daily, Logan (Tayler) Jensen and Allie Jensen; 11 great grandchildren and 1 great great-grandchild.&nbsp;Other surviving family members include her siblings; Georgia Pancake, Sharon Springs, KS, Clydene Young, Salina , KS, Leon (Patty) Lock, Wallace, KS, Lee (Pauline) Lock, Wallace, KS, Elaine Fischer, Sharon Springs, KS, Larry (Sharon) Lock, Scott City, KS and Dale (Judy) Lock, Saginaw, TX and many nieces and nephews.Memorial contributions may be made out to the Wallace County 4-H and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

Goldie Louise (Lock) Daily

Nancy Jane Hanson Smith who passed away Tuesday morning, May 28, 2024, at The Journey Home, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, at the age of 85. She was born November 12, 1938, to John Malcolm and Dorothy Anne Robar Hanson at Boston Osteopathic Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.

Nancy attended Medford Hillside Grade School in Medford, Massachusetts. After moving from Medford to Denver, Colorado in 1949, she continued her schooling and graduated from Aurora High School, Class of 1956.

Nancy was united in marriage to Samie Lee Smith on October 1, 1961, at the First Christian Church in Hoxie, Kansas. Nancy and Sam raised three children- Bryan Leighton, Scott Lathan, and Shanda Sue.

Nancy was a homemaker until 1974 when she began working outside the home as the deputy County Clerk at the Sheridan County Courthouse in Hoxie. Later, Nancy and Sam purchased Mrs. D’s Shoppe, a ladies clothing store in Hoxie, and she operated that store for many years. Nancy may also be fondly remembered as manager at the Hoxie Short Stop, the local Ben Franklin store, bookkeeping for the Hoxie Coop or working at Red’s Convenience Store. Nancy was a “people person” and especially enjoyed her volunteer time with the Hoxie Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Wagon.

Nancy enjoyed working with her hands, from knitting and sewing, to baking goodies, and playing the piano. She most loved taking care of her family, especially the time with her grandkids.

Nancy was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church, where she served as Elder and in the women’s organizations. She was a Cub Scout leader for many years and enjoyed membership in the Cultus Club and Order of Eastern Star, all in Hoxie. Nancy was a part of Monday Night Bible Study Group for many years.

In 2005, Nancy and Sam moved to Independence, Kansas to be closer to their children and for health reasons. Nancy began volunteering with the Mercy Hospital Auxiliary and attended church at the First Church of the Nazarene. She spent countless hours helping with the church’s community clothes closet and did so for many years. Nancy was a member of Sassy Sisters, and enjoyed playing cards every Wednesday evening with a group of friends.

Survivors include her sons Bryan Smith, Tulsa, OK; Scott Smith and wife Anne, Dallas, TX; daughter Shanda Chambers and husband James, Independence, KS; grandchildren Lathan Smith; Eden Smith; Courtney (Chris) Goen; and Logan Chambers; and great granddaughters Savannah and Taylor Goen.

Nancy is preceded in death by her parents; husband Sam in July 2012; brothers John M. Hanson, Jr. and Richard S. Hanson; grandchildren Kalan N. Smith and Ashley N. Chambers.

Nancy was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was a gift from God, and now she has returned to His care, leaving her family and friends’ lives richer from her positivity and many cherished memories.

A Graveside Service for Nancy is planned for Saturday, June 15, 2024, 2:00 P.M., at the Hoxie City Cemetery, Hoxie, Kansas. Following the service all are invited to the Hoxie United Methodist Church to greet the family, share memories, and refreshments.

Nancy Jane Hanson Smith who passed away Tuesday morning, May 28, 2024, at The Journey Home, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, at the age of 85. She was born November 12, 1938, to John Malcolm and Dorothy Anne Robar Hanson at Boston Osteopathic Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.Nancy attended Medford Hillside Grade School in Medford, Massachusetts. After moving from Medford to Denver, Colorado in 1949, she continued her schooling and graduated from Aurora High School, Class of 1956.Nancy was united in marriage to Samie Lee Smith on October 1, 1961, at the First Christian Church in Hoxie, Kansas. Nancy and Sam raised three children- Bryan Leighton, Scott Lathan, and Shanda Sue.Nancy was a homemaker until 1974 when she began working outside the home as the deputy County Clerk at the Sheridan County Courthouse in Hoxie. Later, Nancy and Sam purchased Mrs. D’s Shoppe, a ladies clothing store in Hoxie, and she operated that store for many years. Nancy may also be fondly remembered as manager at the Hoxie Short Stop, the local Ben Franklin store, bookkeeping for the Hoxie Coop or working at Red’s Convenience Store. Nancy was a “people person” and especially enjoyed her volunteer time with the Hoxie Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Wagon.Nancy enjoyed working with her hands, from knitting and sewing, to baking goodies, and playing the piano. She most loved taking care of her family, especially the time with her grandkids.Nancy was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church, where she served as Elder and in the women’s organizations. She was a Cub Scout leader for many years and enjoyed membership in the Cultus Club and Order of Eastern Star, all in Hoxie. Nancy was a part of Monday Night Bible Study Group for many years.In 2005, Nancy and Sam moved to Independence, Kansas to be closer to their children and for health reasons. Nancy began volunteering with the Mercy Hospital Auxiliary and attended church at the First Church of the Nazarene. She spent countless hours helping with the church’s community clothes closet and did so for many years. Nancy was a member of Sassy Sisters, and enjoyed playing cards every Wednesday evening with a group of friends.Survivors include her sons Bryan Smith, Tulsa, OK; Scott Smith and wife Anne, Dallas, TX; daughter Shanda Chambers and husband James, Independence, KS; grandchildren Lathan Smith; Eden Smith; Courtney (Chris) Goen; and Logan Chambers; and great granddaughters Savannah and Taylor Goen.Nancy is preceded in death by her parents; husband Sam in July 2012; brothers John M. Hanson, Jr. and Richard S. Hanson; grandchildren Kalan N. Smith and Ashley N. Chambers.Nancy was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was a gift from God, and now she has returned to His care, leaving her family and friends’ lives richer from her positivity and many cherished memories.A Graveside Service for Nancy is planned for Saturday, June 15, 2024, 2:00 P.M., at the Hoxie City Cemetery, Hoxie, Kansas. Following the service all are invited to the Hoxie United Methodist Church to greet the family, share memories, and refreshments.

Nancy Jane Hanson Smith

Francine "Francy" Titus, has passed away at the age of 63 on May 24, 2024, in Garden City, Kansas. Born on May 9, 1961, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Francy's journey through life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family, her passion for her work, and her generosity.

Francy was raised in Elkhart and moved to Garden City in the 80’s. She poured into this community beginning at Terrace Garden as an Activity Director, then Recreational Manager at SDSI. She ran Garden City Special Olympics for 20+ years and coached all sports, then in 2000 she started Advocacy Unlimited-Independent Case Management, she loved her career in the Developmental Disability field. For over three decades, Francy poured her heart into everything she did. Her commitment to those with developmental disabilities was not just a career, but a calling, and she touched countless lives with her kindness and expertise. She passed down her dedication to serving others to her daughter who began working alongside her in 2007, who will continue her legacy and the company she built. Francy was the embodiment of the idea that to give is to receive, and her selflessness was a lesson in the power of putting others first.

Francy’s life was woven with threads of love, family, and cherished memories. As a daughter, sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, and friend, she touched countless lives. Her children, Brandon and Sheree Evans, Sarah Evans and Michael Walker, Marlie and Mike Crain, Tyson Phillis, and her spoiled fur-baby, Cooper, were the pride of her life. Francy's grandchildren, Madison, Katlie, C.J., Acelynn, Alex, Xavier, Isaac, Brooklyn, Braylon, Evan, Kyler, Noah, and Josh, were the light of her life. Francy also loved her siblings, Kathy, Marie, Mike, and her late brother Phil. She wore the title of “Aunty Fra” with pride, showering her nieces and nephews with affection as if they were her own. She created a treasure trove of memories for everyone, filled with love, laughter, and the magic of her G-Ma camp, family activities, crafting with her best friend LeaAnn Lee, holiday gatherings, and summers at the lake.

Francy was proceeded in death by her brother Philip McCready and her mother Patsy Ryman.

A Memorial Service will be held&nbsp;Thursday June 13th, 2024&nbsp;at 10:30am at Cornerstone Church with Pastor Raul Silva officiating. The service will be broadcast live via the Garnand Funeral Home Facebook Page. A small reception at Cornerstone will immediately follow the Memorial Service to allow family and friends an opportunity to visit, offer condolences and share memories; refreshments will be provided. Burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Francine Titus Memorial Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 412 N 7th Street. Garden City KS. 67846

Francine "Francy" Titus, has passed away at the age of 63 on May 24, 2024, in Garden City, Kansas. Born on May 9, 1961, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Francy's journey through life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family, her passion for her work, and her generosity.Francy was raised in Elkhart and moved to Garden City in the 80’s. She poured into this community beginning at Terrace Garden as an Activity Director, then Recreational Manager at SDSI. She ran Garden City Special Olympics for 20+ years and coached all sports, then in 2000 she started Advocacy Unlimited-Independent Case Management, she loved her career in the Developmental Disability field. For over three decades, Francy poured her heart into everything she did. Her commitment to those with developmental disabilities was not just a career, but a calling, and she touched countless lives with her kindness and expertise. She passed down her dedication to serving others to her daughter who began working alongside her in 2007, who will continue her legacy and the company she built. Francy was the embodiment of the idea that to give is to receive, and her selflessness was a lesson in the power of putting others first.Francy’s life was woven with threads of love, family, and cherished memories. As a daughter, sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, and friend, she touched countless lives. Her children, Brandon and Sheree Evans, Sarah Evans and Michael Walker, Marlie and Mike Crain, Tyson Phillis, and her spoiled fur-baby, Cooper, were the pride of her life. Francy's grandchildren, Madison, Katlie, C.J., Acelynn, Alex, Xavier, Isaac, Brooklyn, Braylon, Evan, Kyler, Noah, and Josh, were the light of her life. Francy also loved her siblings, Kathy, Marie, Mike, and her late brother Phil. She wore the title of “Aunty Fra” with pride, showering her nieces and nephews with affection as if they were her own. She created a treasure trove of memories for everyone, filled with love, laughter, and the magic of her G-Ma camp, family activities, crafting with her best friend LeaAnn Lee, holiday gatherings, and summers at the lake.Francy was proceeded in death by her brother Philip McCready and her mother Patsy Ryman.A Memorial Service will be held&nbsp;Thursday June 13th, 2024&nbsp;at 10:30am at Cornerstone Church with Pastor Raul Silva officiating. The service will be broadcast live via the Garnand Funeral Home Facebook Page. A small reception at Cornerstone will immediately follow the Memorial Service to allow family and friends an opportunity to visit, offer condolences and share memories; refreshments will be provided. Burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Francine Titus Memorial Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 412 N 7th Street. Garden City KS. 67846

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