Dena Stoll was born Elizabeth Darlene Cox in Leach, OK on October 9, 1948. Dena worked in many fields throughout her life. Her occupations included everything from waitress to security guard to business owner to over-the-road truck driver to hotel operator. She lived in many places from Texas to Oklahoma to California and traveled to many more. She eventually settled in Oakley to concentrate on her favorite jobs; being a mom, grandma, and gigi. Dena’s mammoth personality, paired with her enormous heart and devastating wit, made at least an impression on everyone she met. For others, she became family; Corina preceded her in death but called her “Mom” until the day she passed. So did Tiffany, Jennifer, Mindy, and many more.

Dena passed away following a pitched battle with Parkinson’s Disease on February 4, 2024, at the Logan County Manor in Oakley, KS. She was preceded in death by her parents, Realis and Ruby (Cox) Merrell, and an infant son, Brian Williamson. She is survived by her husband, Gary Stoll, her four children, Bob and Trish (Parker) Williamson, Laura (Williamson) and Jason Crick, Tiffany (Byers) and Jason Mader, and Tim and Jillian (Hahn) Byers, her stepdaughters Jennifer Stoll and Kylie Stoll, fifteen grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

A celebration of life is scheduled for 10:00 am, February 10, 2024, at the United Christian Church in Oakley, KS. Memorials, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. Online condolences may be left at baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707333751992.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dena Stoll was born Elizabeth Darlene Cox in Leach, OK on October 9, 1948. Dena worked in many fields throughout her life. Her occupations included everything from waitress to security guard to business owner to over-the-road truck driver to hotel operator. She lived in many places from Texas to Oklahoma to California and traveled to many more. She eventually settled in Oakley to concentrate on her favorite jobs; being a mom, grandma, and gigi. Dena’s mammoth personality, paired with her enormous heart and devastating wit, made at least an impression on everyone she met. For others, she became family; Corina preceded her in death but called her “Mom” until the day she passed. So did Tiffany, Jennifer, Mindy, and many more.Dena passed away following a pitched battle with Parkinson’s Disease on February 4, 2024, at the Logan County Manor in Oakley, KS. She was preceded in death by her parents, Realis and Ruby (Cox) Merrell, and an infant son, Brian Williamson. She is survived by her husband, Gary Stoll, her four children, Bob and Trish (Parker) Williamson, Laura (Williamson) and Jason Crick, Tiffany (Byers) and Jason Mader, and Tim and Jillian (Hahn) Byers, her stepdaughters Jennifer Stoll and Kylie Stoll, fifteen grandchildren and two great grandchildren.A celebration of life is scheduled for 10:00 am, February 10, 2024, at the United Christian Church in Oakley, KS. Memorials, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. Online condolences may be left at baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Dena" Elizabeth Darlene Stoll (Merrell)

Edward Thelsten Kocher, 89, quietly passed away at the Good Samaritan, in Atwood, KS on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

Ed grew up on his parents’ farm south of Concordia, KS. He attended Cottonwood Rural and in 1952, graduated from Concordia High School. Edward loved sports, he played both football and baseball throughout high school.

Ed then attended Kansas State University. He graduated with a dual major in Agriculture and Journalism. Edward was a life-long fan of K-State and was very proud to be an Alumni. While at school in Manhattan, KS, he met Donna Jane Brown, of Atwood, KS. They were married on June 15, 1957. Following college, Ed and Donna moved to North Carolina for two years, where Ed served in the 82nd Airborne stationed at Ft. Bragg, NC. While in the Army he made dozens of jumps as a paratrooper!

Ed and Donna then moved to Omaha, NE, where he took a position at the Stockman Journal as their advertising manager. Ed and Donna had both of their children while living in Omaha.

From there, Ed moved the family to Leawood, KS. Ed spent his working hours as the sales manager at BSnB building corp, and ad manger at Big Farmer Magazine. He also formed his own steel building company, K-Steel.Following the death of his father, Ed and his family re-located to Concordia, KS, where he took over the family farm, while marketing his K-Steel products.

In addition to farming, Ed operated a custom harvesting operation. He traveled extensively in business throughout his career and found common interest with almost everyone he met. In the early 1990’s Ed and Donna moved to Atwood, KS to be nearer to family. While in Atwood, Ed enjoyed gardening, was committed to work, and loved to share his stories. (Whether it be his wife of 66 years, his children, or grandchildren, he was happy to show how proud he was of the people he cared for.Ed and Donna bought a little acreage west of Atwood at Blakeman, their “Hobby Farm”. Ed started “Blakeman Gardens”. He grew tomatoes, melons, and anything else that Donna liked. He worked full time until he suffered a fall in 2021 at The Atwood Corner filling station and enjoyed selling vegetables at the local Farmers Market.

Edward was never short of words and was a friend to nearly every person he met. His love for his family and friends was shown in countless ways, he was a steady, unwavering man, who was fiercely loyal and firm in his convictions. He loved spending time in his garden, talking to genuine people and loved his family with all his heart.

Edward is survived by his wife, Donna Kocher; his grandson Cody Wayne Kocher, his wife Emily and son Colt James; and grandson Damien Paul Kocher, his wife Jade and son Finn Edward.Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Adeline Kocher, of Concordia, KS; his son Kenneth (Russ) Kocher and his daughter, Kara Jane Coates.A graveside service will take place at 2:00 p.m. Monday, February 12, 2024, at Fairview Cemetery, Atwood, KS. Memorials may be made to the Atwood Good Samaritan and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visitbaalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Edward Thelsten Kocher, 89, quietly passed away at the Good Samaritan, in Atwood, KS on Saturday, February 3, 2024.Ed grew up on his parents’ farm south of Concordia, KS. He attended Cottonwood Rural and in 1952, graduated from Concordia High School. Edward loved sports, he played both football and baseball throughout high school.Ed then attended Kansas State University. He graduated with a dual major in Agriculture and Journalism. Edward was a life-long fan of K-State and was very proud to be an Alumni. While at school in Manhattan, KS, he met Donna Jane Brown, of Atwood, KS. They were married on June 15, 1957. Following college, Ed and Donna moved to North Carolina for two years, where Ed served in the 82nd Airborne stationed at Ft. Bragg, NC. While in the Army he made dozens of jumps as a paratrooper!Ed and Donna then moved to Omaha, NE, where he took a position at the Stockman Journal as their advertising manager. Ed and Donna had both of their children while living in Omaha.From there, Ed moved the family to Leawood, KS. Ed spent his working hours as the sales manager at BSnB building corp, and ad manger at Big Farmer Magazine. He also formed his own steel building company, K-Steel.Following the death of his father, Ed and his family re-located to Concordia, KS, where he took over the family farm, while marketing his K-Steel products.In addition to farming, Ed operated a custom harvesting operation. He traveled extensively in business throughout his career and found common interest with almost everyone he met. In the early 1990’s Ed and Donna moved to Atwood, KS to be nearer to family. While in Atwood, Ed enjoyed gardening, was committed to work, and loved to share his stories. (Whether it be his wife of 66 years, his children, or grandchildren, he was happy to show how proud he was of the people he cared for.Ed and Donna bought a little acreage west of Atwood at Blakeman, their “Hobby Farm”. Ed started “Blakeman Gardens”. He grew tomatoes, melons, and anything else that Donna liked. He worked full time until he suffered a fall in 2021 at The Atwood Corner filling station and enjoyed selling vegetables at the local Farmers Market.Edward was never short of words and was a friend to nearly every person he met. His love for his family and friends was shown in countless ways, he was a steady, unwavering man, who was fiercely loyal and firm in his convictions. He loved spending time in his garden, talking to genuine people and loved his family with all his heart.Edward is survived by his wife, Donna Kocher; his grandson Cody Wayne Kocher, his wife Emily and son Colt James; and grandson Damien Paul Kocher, his wife Jade and son Finn Edward.Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Adeline Kocher, of Concordia, KS; his son Kenneth (Russ) Kocher and his daughter, Kara Jane Coates.A graveside service will take place at 2:00 p.m. Monday, February 12, 2024, at Fairview Cemetery, Atwood, KS. Memorials may be made to the Atwood Good Samaritan and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visitbaalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Edward Thelsten Kocher

Phillipsburg resident, Dave Pfeil, passed away January 31, 2024 in Thornton IA at the age of 68.

Survivors include his sons, Bryce of Newbern, NC &amp; Shaun of Concordia; his daughters, Sarah, Sheena &amp; Brelyn “Nin” Pfeil all of Phillipsburg; 2 brothers, Curtis &amp; Russ of Alma; his sister, Judy Williamson of Alma &amp; 10 grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Feb. 9 at 10:30 a.m. in the Huck Boyd Community Center with Pastor Dave Hutson officiating. &nbsp;The service will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page. &nbsp;

A graveside service will be held Friday at 2:00 p.m. in the Alma Cemetery, Alma, NE.

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 9:00 Wednesday &amp; 9:00 to 9:00 Thursday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel with the family receiving friends from 6:30 to 7:30 Thursday evening.

Memorial contributions may be made to his grandchildren’s education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707333645092.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Phillipsburg resident, Dave Pfeil, passed away January 31, 2024 in Thornton IA at the age of 68.Survivors include his sons, Bryce of Newbern, NC &amp; Shaun of Concordia; his daughters, Sarah, Sheena &amp; Brelyn “Nin” Pfeil all of Phillipsburg; 2 brothers, Curtis &amp; Russ of Alma; his sister, Judy Williamson of Alma &amp; 10 grandchildren.Funeral services will be held Friday, Feb. 9 at 10:30 a.m. in the Huck Boyd Community Center with Pastor Dave Hutson officiating. &nbsp;The service will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page. &nbsp;A graveside service will be held Friday at 2:00 p.m. in the Alma Cemetery, Alma, NE.Visitation will be from 5:00 to 9:00 Wednesday &amp; 9:00 to 9:00 Thursday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel with the family receiving friends from 6:30 to 7:30 Thursday evening.Memorial contributions may be made to his grandchildren’s education.

Dave Pfeil

Lindsay Homeier, a radiant soul whose life was a symphony of love, laughter, and dance, left our world too soon, but her spirit and legacy continue to inspire and uplift all who knew her. Born on May 14, 1988, in Hays, Kansas. &nbsp;Lindsay was the cherished daughter of Jim and Jaci Feil. From the very beginning, she captivated her father Jim’s heart, forging a bond of love and mutual admiration that was truly special. Lindsay’s love for dance was evident at the age of 3.&nbsp; She would leap throughout the house and in the yard.&nbsp; We were always afraid she was going to hurt herself or break something.&nbsp; Her love of dance led us to enroll her in dance classes which she absolutely loved going to.&nbsp; As she entered middle school, she wanted to enroll in Jackie Creamer’s dance studio in Hays, so she could try out for the competition team, which she made.&nbsp; This love continued throughout high school as she was a member of the RHS dance team for all four years.

Lindsay’s love of dance was not only her passion, but the very essence of who she was.&nbsp; She touched many lives and created a beautiful dance family, who she loved dearly. After graduating from Russell High School in the Class of 2006, she honed her craft at the University of Kansas, where she earned a degree in Political Science with a Minor in Dance. &nbsp;&nbsp;While at KU, she took multiple dance classes in a variety of genres.&nbsp; She wanted to learn everything she could so she could teach others.&nbsp; Realizing her dream led her to becoming the owner and operator of her own dance studio, Euphoria Dance Centre in Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; Her love story with Bobby Homeier, whom she married on June 20, 2015, was a beautiful testament to partnership and shared dreams. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and the playful antics of their beloved pets, Missi and Phoebie.

Throughout her life, Lindsay was a beacon of joy and inspiration, especially through her dance program and mentorship, where she empowered countless children to express themselves and embrace the transformative power of dance. Her infectious enthusiasm and genuine warmth turned every encounter into a memorable experience, enriching the lives of all who crossed her path. As we reflect on Lindsay’s journey, we are comforted by the image of her in heaven, joyfully preparing her song list, choreography dances with the angels, basking in the peace and love of our Lord.

To honor Lindsay’s lifelong commitment to dance and her desire to make it accessible to all, the Lindsay Homeier Legacy Dance Scholarship has been established. This scholarship is a tribute to Lindsay’s belief in the power of dance to illuminate the brightest parts of our souls, just as she did every day with her indomitable spirit and radiant smile. It is our hope that through the Lindsay Homeier Legacy Dance Scholarship, we can continue to support and nurture young dancers, helping their talents to flourish and their inner light to shine as brightly as Lindsay’s. In this way, we keep her passion alive, ensuring that her legacy of love, joy, and the transformative power of dance endures, touching the lives of future generations.

Lindsay is lovingly remembered by her husband Bobby Homeier, her mother Jaci Feil, her brother Ryan Feil, his wife Erica, and her nephews Bryson and Lawson and niece Jayde, her grandmother Velma Beeman and her cousins Jessica Dumler, Chris Feil and Kellin Feil.&nbsp; She also leaves behind a cherished circle of nieces and nephews—Taelyr Blehm, Jayden Braun, Riley Braun, Lilly Braun, Neveah Buffington, Tavia Buffington, Skylard Buffington, Natalia Buffington, Hazel Henderleiter, Phoebe Henderlieter, Porter Henderleiter, and Cameron Henderleiter—who will forever hold dear the joy and lessons she shared with them.

Rest in peace, Lindsay. Your spirit dances on, a guiding light for all who had the privilege of knowing you and experiencing the beauty you brought into the world. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:11 AM, Thursday, February 8, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church of Russell.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, with the family present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, a Memorial has been established as the Lindsay Homeier Legacy Dance Scholarship.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707333266178.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lindsay Homeier, a radiant soul whose life was a symphony of love, laughter, and dance, left our world too soon, but her spirit and legacy continue to inspire and uplift all who knew her. Born on May 14, 1988, in Hays, Kansas. &nbsp;Lindsay was the cherished daughter of Jim and Jaci Feil. From the very beginning, she captivated her father Jim’s heart, forging a bond of love and mutual admiration that was truly special. Lindsay’s love for dance was evident at the age of 3.&nbsp; She would leap throughout the house and in the yard.&nbsp; We were always afraid she was going to hurt herself or break something.&nbsp; Her love of dance led us to enroll her in dance classes which she absolutely loved going to.&nbsp; As she entered middle school, she wanted to enroll in Jackie Creamer’s dance studio in Hays, so she could try out for the competition team, which she made.&nbsp; This love continued throughout high school as she was a member of the RHS dance team for all four years.Lindsay’s love of dance was not only her passion, but the very essence of who she was.&nbsp; She touched many lives and created a beautiful dance family, who she loved dearly. After graduating from Russell High School in the Class of 2006, she honed her craft at the University of Kansas, where she earned a degree in Political Science with a Minor in Dance. &nbsp;&nbsp;While at KU, she took multiple dance classes in a variety of genres.&nbsp; She wanted to learn everything she could so she could teach others.&nbsp; Realizing her dream led her to becoming the owner and operator of her own dance studio, Euphoria Dance Centre in Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; Her love story with Bobby Homeier, whom she married on June 20, 2015, was a beautiful testament to partnership and shared dreams. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and the playful antics of their beloved pets, Missi and Phoebie.Throughout her life, Lindsay was a beacon of joy and inspiration, especially through her dance program and mentorship, where she empowered countless children to express themselves and embrace the transformative power of dance. Her infectious enthusiasm and genuine warmth turned every encounter into a memorable experience, enriching the lives of all who crossed her path. As we reflect on Lindsay’s journey, we are comforted by the image of her in heaven, joyfully preparing her song list, choreography dances with the angels, basking in the peace and love of our Lord.To honor Lindsay’s lifelong commitment to dance and her desire to make it accessible to all, the Lindsay Homeier Legacy Dance Scholarship has been established. This scholarship is a tribute to Lindsay’s belief in the power of dance to illuminate the brightest parts of our souls, just as she did every day with her indomitable spirit and radiant smile. It is our hope that through the Lindsay Homeier Legacy Dance Scholarship, we can continue to support and nurture young dancers, helping their talents to flourish and their inner light to shine as brightly as Lindsay’s. In this way, we keep her passion alive, ensuring that her legacy of love, joy, and the transformative power of dance endures, touching the lives of future generations.Lindsay is lovingly remembered by her husband Bobby Homeier, her mother Jaci Feil, her brother Ryan Feil, his wife Erica, and her nephews Bryson and Lawson and niece Jayde, her grandmother Velma Beeman and her cousins Jessica Dumler, Chris Feil and Kellin Feil.&nbsp; She also leaves behind a cherished circle of nieces and nephews—Taelyr Blehm, Jayden Braun, Riley Braun, Lilly Braun, Neveah Buffington, Tavia Buffington, Skylard Buffington, Natalia Buffington, Hazel Henderleiter, Phoebe Henderlieter, Porter Henderleiter, and Cameron Henderleiter—who will forever hold dear the joy and lessons she shared with them.Rest in peace, Lindsay. Your spirit dances on, a guiding light for all who had the privilege of knowing you and experiencing the beauty you brought into the world. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:11 AM, Thursday, February 8, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church of Russell.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, with the family present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, a Memorial has been established as the Lindsay Homeier Legacy Dance Scholarship.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these services.

Lindsay Homeier

Sammy Dean “Sam” Patterson, 81, Hays, died Monday, February 5, 2024 at HaysMed.

He was born July 22, 1942 in Texas County, Missouri, the son of Leslie and Verna (Farris) Patterson.&nbsp; Sam married Rosalie Klaus in June 1981 in Midland, Texas, and they celebrated 42 years of marriage.&nbsp; He enjoyed his truck driving career, restoring vehicles, and going to car shows.&nbsp; Most of all, he loved his family and his dog, Buddy.

Survivors include his wife Rosalie of Hays, his son, Timmy Patterson of Texas, a step-daughter, Karen Simpson and husband Tom of Arizona, four step-sons, Bruce Befort and wife Janel of Texas, Rod Befort and wife Kathy of Garden City, Clayton Befort and wife Sharon of Hays, and Rex Befort and wife Karen of Wichita, 11 grandchildren, Chad, Cole, Cory, Becky, Tammy, Clinton, Austin, Shellie, Andy, Mitch, and Cory, 14 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, four sisters, and a nephew.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 pm until 5:00 on Friday, February 9, 2024 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Sam may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707333183228.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sammy Dean “Sam” Patterson, 81, Hays, died Monday, February 5, 2024 at HaysMed.He was born July 22, 1942 in Texas County, Missouri, the son of Leslie and Verna (Farris) Patterson.&nbsp; Sam married Rosalie Klaus in June 1981 in Midland, Texas, and they celebrated 42 years of marriage.&nbsp; He enjoyed his truck driving career, restoring vehicles, and going to car shows.&nbsp; Most of all, he loved his family and his dog, Buddy.Survivors include his wife Rosalie of Hays, his son, Timmy Patterson of Texas, a step-daughter, Karen Simpson and husband Tom of Arizona, four step-sons, Bruce Befort and wife Janel of Texas, Rod Befort and wife Kathy of Garden City, Clayton Befort and wife Sharon of Hays, and Rex Befort and wife Karen of Wichita, 11 grandchildren, Chad, Cole, Cory, Becky, Tammy, Clinton, Austin, Shellie, Andy, Mitch, and Cory, 14 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, four sisters, and a nephew.The family will receive friends from 3:00 pm until 5:00 on Friday, February 9, 2024 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Sam may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

Sammy "Sam" Dean Patterson

Richard Lynn Charles, 79, died February 5, 2024, at his daughter’s home in Newton, Kansas. &nbsp;He was born May 18, 1944, in Hoisington, Kansas, the son of Cecil C. and Geraldine J. (Whitlow) Charles. &nbsp;Richard graduated from Hoisington High School and then attended Fort Hays State College majoring in botany and wildlife management. Richard enlisted with the Army National Guard in the 995th Maintenance Company out of Barton County and later served his country in the Vietnam Conflict from 1968 to 1969 with the 26th Infantry Division of the United States Army. &nbsp;

Richard farmed the family farm near Beaver Kansas for many years while also working as a conductor for the railroad. He worked on the Rio Grande Management and the Missouri Pacific and later retired with the Union Pacific Railroad in 2002.

A resident of Lindsborg since 2013 moving from Great Bend, Richard was an outdoor enthusiast. He loved spending time outdoors watching wildlife and even helping raise wild birds. Although he was most passionate about watching his grandkids in their school events and sports games and never missed an opportunity to cheer them on.

On May 28, 1983, he married Marilyn Kay Funk in Great Bend, Kansas. They later divorced but remained good friends until her passing on October 2, 2022.

He leaves behind a daughter; Cassie Koehn and husband Dustin of Newton; a sister, Sandra Kae Stout of Battle Creek, Michigan; and six grandchildren, Cade, Matthew, Tyler, Kylie, Lakyn, and Kinzie.; and his loyal dog, Jake.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, JoAnn Fraser.

Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, with family to greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m., at the funeral home.

Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, Hoisington, Kansas.

Memorials may be made to Richard Charles Memorial Fund, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707333127172.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Richard Lynn Charles, 79, died February 5, 2024, at his daughter’s home in Newton, Kansas. &nbsp;He was born May 18, 1944, in Hoisington, Kansas, the son of Cecil C. and Geraldine J. (Whitlow) Charles. &nbsp;Richard graduated from Hoisington High School and then attended Fort Hays State College majoring in botany and wildlife management. Richard enlisted with the Army National Guard in the 995th Maintenance Company out of Barton County and later served his country in the Vietnam Conflict from 1968 to 1969 with the 26th Infantry Division of the United States Army. &nbsp;Richard farmed the family farm near Beaver Kansas for many years while also working as a conductor for the railroad. He worked on the Rio Grande Management and the Missouri Pacific and later retired with the Union Pacific Railroad in 2002.A resident of Lindsborg since 2013 moving from Great Bend, Richard was an outdoor enthusiast. He loved spending time outdoors watching wildlife and even helping raise wild birds. Although he was most passionate about watching his grandkids in their school events and sports games and never missed an opportunity to cheer them on.On May 28, 1983, he married Marilyn Kay Funk in Great Bend, Kansas. They later divorced but remained good friends until her passing on October 2, 2022.He leaves behind a daughter; Cassie Koehn and husband Dustin of Newton; a sister, Sandra Kae Stout of Battle Creek, Michigan; and six grandchildren, Cade, Matthew, Tyler, Kylie, Lakyn, and Kinzie.; and his loyal dog, Jake.He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, JoAnn Fraser.Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, with family to greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m., at the funeral home.Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, Hoisington, Kansas.Memorials may be made to Richard Charles Memorial Fund, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

Richard Lynn Charles

Larry Dean Horton, 79, passed away February 4, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. &nbsp;He was born February 27, 1944, in Great Bend, to Melvin &amp; Katherine (Koch) Horton. He married Carol Ann Riebel on April 4, 1964, in Great Bend. She survives.&nbsp;

A lifetime Great Bend resident, Larry was a foreman for Great Bend Manufacturing and later a heavy equipment operator for K.M.W., retiring in 2021. He was a member of the B 4 5 Club at Sarge’s, formerly the Pour House and enjoyed fishing, hunting, casinos, and playing KENO. &nbsp;Above all, Larry treasured his time spent with his family and friends. &nbsp;Larry served his country in the Army National Guard, earning the rank of Sergeant, and later being the recipient of a Golden Plains Quilt of Valor in 2022.

Survivors include his wife, Carol; three daughters, Laura Brown (Scott), Carla Rodie (Dave Davis), and Kathy Kellar (Greg) all of Great Bend; six grandchildren, Justin Kelly (Corry), Cody Kelly (Jessica), Brianna Mahin (Jacey), Nicole Unruh, Nick Schwager (Georgia), and Trevor Schwager; 16 great grandchildren; and his cat, meano Keno. He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Horton; and mother and stepfather, Katherine and Wayne Coyle.&nbsp;

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, February 8, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Debbie Fegan presiding. Interment will follow in the Great Bend Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Army National Guard Honor Guard and the Southwest Kansas Veterans Funeral Honor Guard.&nbsp; Memorials have been designated to Angel Flight Central or Victory in the Valley, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707333078992.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Larry Dean Horton, 79, passed away February 4, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. &nbsp;He was born February 27, 1944, in Great Bend, to Melvin &amp; Katherine (Koch) Horton. He married Carol Ann Riebel on April 4, 1964, in Great Bend. She survives.&nbsp;A lifetime Great Bend resident, Larry was a foreman for Great Bend Manufacturing and later a heavy equipment operator for K.M.W., retiring in 2021. He was a member of the B 4 5 Club at Sarge’s, formerly the Pour House and enjoyed fishing, hunting, casinos, and playing KENO. &nbsp;Above all, Larry treasured his time spent with his family and friends. &nbsp;Larry served his country in the Army National Guard, earning the rank of Sergeant, and later being the recipient of a Golden Plains Quilt of Valor in 2022.Survivors include his wife, Carol; three daughters, Laura Brown (Scott), Carla Rodie (Dave Davis), and Kathy Kellar (Greg) all of Great Bend; six grandchildren, Justin Kelly (Corry), Cody Kelly (Jessica), Brianna Mahin (Jacey), Nicole Unruh, Nick Schwager (Georgia), and Trevor Schwager; 16 great grandchildren; and his cat, meano Keno. He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Horton; and mother and stepfather, Katherine and Wayne Coyle.&nbsp;Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, February 8, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Debbie Fegan presiding. Interment will follow in the Great Bend Cemetery, with military honors provided by the Army National Guard Honor Guard and the Southwest Kansas Veterans Funeral Honor Guard.&nbsp; Memorials have been designated to Angel Flight Central or Victory in the Valley, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Larry Dean Horton

Mona Carrell Close, 87, of Oakley, passed away Tuesday, January 30th, 2024, at the Logan County Hospital.&nbsp; She was the only child of Charles and Pauline Downs, born August 5th, 1936, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas where they resided until 1943, when their family moved to Burbank, CA.

Mona remained in California until she married Stuart Doyle Close on May 25th, 1959, once married, they moved to Northwest Kansas to custom harvest and start their own farm.&nbsp; Over the next few years, they had four children, Michael, Patricia, Donna, and David.&nbsp; On January 1st, 1962, they, along with Stu’s brother, opened Close Brothers Implement (John Deere).&nbsp; In 1968, due to congenital heart defect Mona required open heart surgery, this is what prompted her parents to move from California and open the Sears store. &nbsp;Mona stayed busy raising her family and working as needed at both Sears and Close Brothers Implement.&nbsp; After leaving Close Brothers Implement, they retired for a few years before opening Carrell’s True Value.&nbsp; During this time, Mona served on the Oakley City Council from 1985-1988, and then became Oakley’s first and only female Mayor, an office she proudly held until 2001. &nbsp;During her time as Mayor she accomplished many things such as bringing in new businesses, building a new swimming pool, developing new parks, 2nd Street curb and guttering and be able to give back to every resident with free electricity for the month of December two years in a row.

Mona was very involved in different groups such as the Red Hat Society, Garden Club, Camilla Club, and many card clubs, as well as an active member of the United Christian Church.&nbsp; She loved interacting with people, offering a friendly smile and a helping hand whenever possible.&nbsp; One of her favorite parts of retirement was vacationing in Arizona for the winter.&nbsp; This, along with other vacations, allowed her to meet so many new people and develop lifelong friendships with people from across the country.&nbsp; Another highlight of retirement was the added time this allowed for quilting.&nbsp; Mona loved quilting and was usually working on two or three at a time.&nbsp; All of her family (and most of her close friends) probably have at least three quilts given to them by&nbsp;Mona, all of them worthy of display.&nbsp; Among her many talents, Mona really enjoyed knitting, making diamond art, painting and, for a time, hanging wallpaper.&nbsp; Shopping was another favorite pastime of Mona’s, rarely passing a store without spending hours inside.&nbsp; She really was a remarkable person and someone to be looked up to by all.

Mona was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Pauline Downs, husband Stu Close, son Michael, infant son David, and her son-in-law Randy Sangster.&nbsp; She is survived by her daughters Patricia Sangster and Donna (Russell) Cox, grandchildren Matthew (Danielle) Bertrand, Samantha (Shaelum) Barnett, Stacy (Troy) Tauber, Steven Cox, Nathan Cox,&nbsp;Christopher Cox, Shari (David) Oren, Suzanne (Jason) Schielke, Staci (Vince) Weigle and 15&nbsp;great-grandchildren.

Funeral Service is 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 3, 2024 at the United Christian Church of Oakley with Pastor Bob Kelly officiating.&nbsp; Interment will follow at the Oakley Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5 - 7 p.m. on Friday, February 2, 2024 at the Church.

Memorials:&nbsp; United Christian Church of Oakley may be sent in care of Kennedy-Koster Funeral Home, P.O. Box 221, Oakley, KS&nbsp; 67748.

Sign the online guestbook at www.kennedykosterfh.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707333023105.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mona Carrell Close, 87, of Oakley, passed away Tuesday, January 30th, 2024, at the Logan County Hospital.&nbsp; She was the only child of Charles and Pauline Downs, born August 5th, 1936, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas where they resided until 1943, when their family moved to Burbank, CA.Mona remained in California until she married Stuart Doyle Close on May 25th, 1959, once married, they moved to Northwest Kansas to custom harvest and start their own farm.&nbsp; Over the next few years, they had four children, Michael, Patricia, Donna, and David.&nbsp; On January 1st, 1962, they, along with Stu’s brother, opened Close Brothers Implement (John Deere).&nbsp; In 1968, due to congenital heart defect Mona required open heart surgery, this is what prompted her parents to move from California and open the Sears store. &nbsp;Mona stayed busy raising her family and working as needed at both Sears and Close Brothers Implement.&nbsp; After leaving Close Brothers Implement, they retired for a few years before opening Carrell’s True Value.&nbsp; During this time, Mona served on the Oakley City Council from 1985-1988, and then became Oakley’s first and only female Mayor, an office she proudly held until 2001. &nbsp;During her time as Mayor she accomplished many things such as bringing in new businesses, building a new swimming pool, developing new parks, 2nd Street curb and guttering and be able to give back to every resident with free electricity for the month of December two years in a row.Mona was very involved in different groups such as the Red Hat Society, Garden Club, Camilla Club, and many card clubs, as well as an active member of the United Christian Church.&nbsp; She loved interacting with people, offering a friendly smile and a helping hand whenever possible.&nbsp; One of her favorite parts of retirement was vacationing in Arizona for the winter.&nbsp; This, along with other vacations, allowed her to meet so many new people and develop lifelong friendships with people from across the country.&nbsp; Another highlight of retirement was the added time this allowed for quilting.&nbsp; Mona loved quilting and was usually working on two or three at a time.&nbsp; All of her family (and most of her close friends) probably have at least three quilts given to them by&nbsp;Mona, all of them worthy of display.&nbsp; Among her many talents, Mona really enjoyed knitting, making diamond art, painting and, for a time, hanging wallpaper.&nbsp; Shopping was another favorite pastime of Mona’s, rarely passing a store without spending hours inside.&nbsp; She really was a remarkable person and someone to be looked up to by all.Mona was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Pauline Downs, husband Stu Close, son Michael, infant son David, and her son-in-law Randy Sangster.&nbsp; She is survived by her daughters Patricia Sangster and Donna (Russell) Cox, grandchildren Matthew (Danielle) Bertrand, Samantha (Shaelum) Barnett, Stacy (Troy) Tauber, Steven Cox, Nathan Cox,&nbsp;Christopher Cox, Shari (David) Oren, Suzanne (Jason) Schielke, Staci (Vince) Weigle and 15&nbsp;great-grandchildren.Funeral Service is 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 3, 2024 at the United Christian Church of Oakley with Pastor Bob Kelly officiating.&nbsp; Interment will follow at the Oakley Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5 - 7 p.m. on Friday, February 2, 2024 at the Church.Memorials:&nbsp; United Christian Church of Oakley may be sent in care of Kennedy-Koster Funeral Home, P.O. Box 221, Oakley, KS&nbsp; 67748.Sign the online guestbook at www.kennedykosterfh.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mona Carrell Close

Dale Francis Meitl, 63, passed away on February 4, 2024. Dale was born on June 30, 1960, to Walter and Rosella (Bange) Meitl in Colby, KS.

Dale grew up on the family farm south of Oberlin and attended Leoville and Oberlin Elementary Schools and graduated from Decatur County High School in 1978. After high school Dale went to Colby Community College and received an Associates of Arts Degree. Then he attended Fort Hays State University to study Art Education. After Fort Hays, Dale enrolled for a short time at Conception Seminary in Conception, MO.

Dale had many jobs in his life from construction, nursing home maintenance, lawn care, and many others. But Dale loved art, any type of art. He loved to draw in pencil, colored pencil, ink, and all kinds of paint. While at Fort Hays the Denver Zoo decided to purchase three of Dale’s art pieces and printed them on shirts that the zoo would sell. Dale had many pieces of art, but one piece was extra special to him, and it was called “The Passion”. “The Passion” was sold statewide, nationwide, worldwide and can be seen in Catholic Magazines.

Dale was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus for 45 years. Dale’s road through life was tough but he always kept a strong faith in God.

Dale is survived by mother: Rosella Meitl; brothers: Charlie (Debbie) Meitl, Gary (Tina) Meitl, and Carl (Stephanie) Meitl; sisters: Joyce (Robert) Miller and Karen (Shawn) Dooley; he is also survived by 4 nephews, 8 nieces, and many extended family and friends. Dale was preceded by his grandparents, father: Walter Meitl; 4 infant siblings and several aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held on February 9, 2024 from 1:00-7:00PM at Plumer – Gobber Funeral Home, with family receiving guests from 5:00-7:00PM. A Rosary will be held at 7:00PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Oberlin, KS at 10:30AM. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Leoville, KS. Memorial contribution may be made out to the Dale Meitl Memorial Fund. Condolence can be left at www.plumergobber.com.

Dale Francis Meitl, 63, passed away on February 4, 2024. Dale was born on June 30, 1960, to Walter and Rosella (Bange) Meitl in Colby, KS.Dale grew up on the family farm south of Oberlin and attended Leoville and Oberlin Elementary Schools and graduated from Decatur County High School in 1978. After high school Dale went to Colby Community College and received an Associates of Arts Degree. Then he attended Fort Hays State University to study Art Education. After Fort Hays, Dale enrolled for a short time at Conception Seminary in Conception, MO.Dale had many jobs in his life from construction, nursing home maintenance, lawn care, and many others. But Dale loved art, any type of art. He loved to draw in pencil, colored pencil, ink, and all kinds of paint. While at Fort Hays the Denver Zoo decided to purchase three of Dale’s art pieces and printed them on shirts that the zoo would sell. Dale had many pieces of art, but one piece was extra special to him, and it was called “The Passion”. “The Passion” was sold statewide, nationwide, worldwide and can be seen in Catholic Magazines.Dale was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus for 45 years. Dale’s road through life was tough but he always kept a strong faith in God.Dale is survived by mother: Rosella Meitl; brothers: Charlie (Debbie) Meitl, Gary (Tina) Meitl, and Carl (Stephanie) Meitl; sisters: Joyce (Robert) Miller and Karen (Shawn) Dooley; he is also survived by 4 nephews, 8 nieces, and many extended family and friends. Dale was preceded by his grandparents, father: Walter Meitl; 4 infant siblings and several aunts and uncles.Visitation will be held on February 9, 2024 from 1:00-7:00PM at Plumer – Gobber Funeral Home, with family receiving guests from 5:00-7:00PM. A Rosary will be held at 7:00PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Oberlin, KS at 10:30AM. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Leoville, KS. Memorial contribution may be made out to the Dale Meitl Memorial Fund. Condolence can be left at www.plumergobber.com.

Dale Francis Meitl

Woon Hak Pak, 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Garden City, KS on Monday, February 5, 2024. He was born December 10, 1944, in South Korea.

Woon was born and raised in South Korea, and served in the Vietnam War from 1966 – 1967. Following his time serving in the South Korean army he met and married his wife, Won Pak on September 29, 1971. Together they moved to the United States in February 1976 and resided in Leoti, KS. They then moved to Garden City, Ks in 1978 and have resided here since then. He began working at IBP on June 1, 1981 and retired from Tyson after 42 years of service. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, boating and gardening. He loved spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Won Pak of Garden City, KS, son Tong &amp; Dory Pak of Arlington, TX, son Yong Pak of San Jose, CA, son Dae &amp; Vy Pak of Wantagh, NY, daughter Hyun Me Pak of Garden City, KS; sister Yong Chu Gonzales of Wichita, KS, brother Kyong Hak &amp; Young Pak of Garden City, KS, sister Yong Hwa Pak of South Korea, sister Yong Yi Cecconi; 8 Grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Garnand Funeral Home from 1:00pm to 8:00pm. Funeral service will be at 2:00pm Friday, February 9, 2024 at Word of Life Church in Garden City with Pastor Rick Beard and Pastor Lenoir Randle officiating. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers family suggest memorials be made to Word of Life Church in care of Garnand Funeral Home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707332887710.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Woon Hak Pak, 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Garden City, KS on Monday, February 5, 2024. He was born December 10, 1944, in South Korea.Woon was born and raised in South Korea, and served in the Vietnam War from 1966 – 1967. Following his time serving in the South Korean army he met and married his wife, Won Pak on September 29, 1971. Together they moved to the United States in February 1976 and resided in Leoti, KS. They then moved to Garden City, Ks in 1978 and have resided here since then. He began working at IBP on June 1, 1981 and retired from Tyson after 42 years of service. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, boating and gardening. He loved spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren.He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Won Pak of Garden City, KS, son Tong &amp; Dory Pak of Arlington, TX, son Yong Pak of San Jose, CA, son Dae &amp; Vy Pak of Wantagh, NY, daughter Hyun Me Pak of Garden City, KS; sister Yong Chu Gonzales of Wichita, KS, brother Kyong Hak &amp; Young Pak of Garden City, KS, sister Yong Hwa Pak of South Korea, sister Yong Yi Cecconi; 8 Grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents.Visitation will be held Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Garnand Funeral Home from 1:00pm to 8:00pm. Funeral service will be at 2:00pm Friday, February 9, 2024 at Word of Life Church in Garden City with Pastor Rick Beard and Pastor Lenoir Randle officiating. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers family suggest memorials be made to Word of Life Church in care of Garnand Funeral Home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Woon Hak Pak

Jesus G. Ortega 86, died on Sunday February 4, 2024, at The Ranch in Garden City. He was born on January 28th, 1938 in San Miguel de la Herradura, Zacatecas, Mexico. Jesus is the son of Andres Ortega and Francisca Garcia. His siblings are Maria Hortencia Castillo, Felipe Ortega Garcia, Maria Natalia Ortega de Amaya, and Esperanza Ortega.

Jesus in his early years worked in Martinos, Restaurant in Juarez, Mexico. On May 20th of 1967, Jesus Garcia Ortega married Carolina Hinojos Vaca in Juarez Mexico. Together their family consists of three sons Fernando Fajardo, Oscar and Ginger Ortega, Octavio and Shannon Ortega. Jesus had 18 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 3 expecting great grandchildren. Together Jesus and his family moved to Aurora, Illinois in 1969. While in Aurora alongside his wife, Jesus worked at Georgia Pacific for 9 years. In 1977 they moved to Garden City, KS where he worked at Jayhawk Rendering, later known as National by product, until retirement. He spent his days with his wife and children traveling. Later on in life he spent many days with his grandchildren. He spent his time sharing his favorite things like dancing, rodeos, working on cars and participating in parades. What Jesus loved to do the most and took pride in was spending time with his beloved family and cherishing time with his grandkids and great grandkids.

Jesus is preceded in death by his wife Carolina Hinojos Ortega, parents Andres Ortega and Francisca Garcia, Sisters: Alejandrina Ortega de Gurrola, and Maria Santos Ortega Moreno.

A Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Garden City. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2024, also at St. Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Jacob Schneider as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Friends may call from Noon to 5:00 p.m. on Friday at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. Condolences may be given at garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707332777955.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jesus G. Ortega 86, died on Sunday February 4, 2024, at The Ranch in Garden City. He was born on January 28th, 1938 in San Miguel de la Herradura, Zacatecas, Mexico. Jesus is the son of Andres Ortega and Francisca Garcia. His siblings are Maria Hortencia Castillo, Felipe Ortega Garcia, Maria Natalia Ortega de Amaya, and Esperanza Ortega.Jesus in his early years worked in Martinos, Restaurant in Juarez, Mexico. On May 20th of 1967, Jesus Garcia Ortega married Carolina Hinojos Vaca in Juarez Mexico. Together their family consists of three sons Fernando Fajardo, Oscar and Ginger Ortega, Octavio and Shannon Ortega. Jesus had 18 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 3 expecting great grandchildren. Together Jesus and his family moved to Aurora, Illinois in 1969. While in Aurora alongside his wife, Jesus worked at Georgia Pacific for 9 years. In 1977 they moved to Garden City, KS where he worked at Jayhawk Rendering, later known as National by product, until retirement. He spent his days with his wife and children traveling. Later on in life he spent many days with his grandchildren. He spent his time sharing his favorite things like dancing, rodeos, working on cars and participating in parades. What Jesus loved to do the most and took pride in was spending time with his beloved family and cherishing time with his grandkids and great grandkids.Jesus is preceded in death by his wife Carolina Hinojos Ortega, parents Andres Ortega and Francisca Garcia, Sisters: Alejandrina Ortega de Gurrola, and Maria Santos Ortega Moreno.A Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Garden City. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2024, also at St. Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Jacob Schneider as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Friends may call from Noon to 5:00 p.m. on Friday at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. Condolences may be given at garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jesus G. Ortega

Donald Lee Miller, age 74, of Dighton, Kansas, passed away on February 2, 2024, at the Lane County Hospital in Dighton Kansas. He was born August 23, 1949, in Colby, Kansas to Verle Sr. and Twila (Leister) Miller. He was the fourth of six children. He attended school in Gem, Kansas. After attending high school he enlisted into the Navy in 1968. He finished his military career in 1971 and later that year he married the love of his life, Ruth Ann Zerr on December 19, 1971, in Colby, Kansas. To this union they were blessed with one daughter and two sons, Jennifer Ann (Tillman), Marvin Don, and Lucas Moses Miller. The real joy of his life was when he was blessed with his six grandchildren, Nikki Ann Hemel, Mara Dawn Hemel, Lane “Buddy” Christian Hemel, Iean Gene Hemel, Mackayla Eileen Miller, and Madison Marie Miller.

After Don and Ruth married they lived in Missouri and Nebraska then finally settled in Lane County, Kansas where he worked at Lane County Feeders for 32 years as a pen rider. Lane County was where he raised his children and taught them how to be hard dedicated workers, life lessons on truth and honesty, and exposed them to the adventures and joys of outdoor life. He was a proud lifetime member of the VFW post in Grinnell, Kansas and the Knights of Columbus in Dighton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Verle Sr. and Twila Miller, older sister, Sandra (Miller) and brother-in-law Darrel Coombs, baby brother, John Miller, son Marvin Miller, and brother-in-law Edwin Havel.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Ann Miller of Dighton Kansas, daughter Jennifer (John) Tillman of Assaria, Kansas, son Lucas (Shantelle) Miller of Healy, Kansas, six grandchildren, Nikki (Cody Drylie) Hemel of Hays, Kansas, Mara Hemel of WaKeeney, Kansas, Lane Hemel of Hays, Kansas, Iean Hemel of Atwood, Kansas, Mackayla Miller of Oakley, Kansas, and Madison Miller of Wichita, Kansas, and three step grandchildren, Gabriel Bowers of Colby, Kansas, Riley and Taylee Kallsen of Healy, Kansas and siblings Verle Jr (Barb) Miller of Hays, Kansas, Carol Havel of Benkelman, Nebraska, Barb (Lee) Naaze of Spearville, Kansas.

Visitation will be held Thursday February 8, 2024 at Boomhower Funeral Home from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Vigil services will be held at 7:00 pm Thursday February 8, 2024 at St Theresa Catholic Church of Dighton, Kansas; family will be present to receive guests from 5:00 pm until vigil services begin. Funeral Mass will take place at 10:00 am Friday February 9, 2024 also at St. Theresa Catholic Church with Rev. Donald Bedore as Celebrant. Burial will follow in Dighton Memorial Cemetery with Military Honors performed by the United States Navy Honor Guard. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Don Miller Memorial Fund in care of Boomhower Funeral Home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707332689854.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Donald Lee Miller, age 74, of Dighton, Kansas, passed away on February 2, 2024, at the Lane County Hospital in Dighton Kansas. He was born August 23, 1949, in Colby, Kansas to Verle Sr. and Twila (Leister) Miller. He was the fourth of six children. He attended school in Gem, Kansas. After attending high school he enlisted into the Navy in 1968. He finished his military career in 1971 and later that year he married the love of his life, Ruth Ann Zerr on December 19, 1971, in Colby, Kansas. To this union they were blessed with one daughter and two sons, Jennifer Ann (Tillman), Marvin Don, and Lucas Moses Miller. The real joy of his life was when he was blessed with his six grandchildren, Nikki Ann Hemel, Mara Dawn Hemel, Lane “Buddy” Christian Hemel, Iean Gene Hemel, Mackayla Eileen Miller, and Madison Marie Miller.After Don and Ruth married they lived in Missouri and Nebraska then finally settled in Lane County, Kansas where he worked at Lane County Feeders for 32 years as a pen rider. Lane County was where he raised his children and taught them how to be hard dedicated workers, life lessons on truth and honesty, and exposed them to the adventures and joys of outdoor life. He was a proud lifetime member of the VFW post in Grinnell, Kansas and the Knights of Columbus in Dighton.He was preceded in death by his parents, Verle Sr. and Twila Miller, older sister, Sandra (Miller) and brother-in-law Darrel Coombs, baby brother, John Miller, son Marvin Miller, and brother-in-law Edwin Havel.He is survived by his wife, Ruth Ann Miller of Dighton Kansas, daughter Jennifer (John) Tillman of Assaria, Kansas, son Lucas (Shantelle) Miller of Healy, Kansas, six grandchildren, Nikki (Cody Drylie) Hemel of Hays, Kansas, Mara Hemel of WaKeeney, Kansas, Lane Hemel of Hays, Kansas, Iean Hemel of Atwood, Kansas, Mackayla Miller of Oakley, Kansas, and Madison Miller of Wichita, Kansas, and three step grandchildren, Gabriel Bowers of Colby, Kansas, Riley and Taylee Kallsen of Healy, Kansas and siblings Verle Jr (Barb) Miller of Hays, Kansas, Carol Havel of Benkelman, Nebraska, Barb (Lee) Naaze of Spearville, Kansas.Visitation will be held Thursday February 8, 2024 at Boomhower Funeral Home from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Vigil services will be held at 7:00 pm Thursday February 8, 2024 at St Theresa Catholic Church of Dighton, Kansas; family will be present to receive guests from 5:00 pm until vigil services begin. Funeral Mass will take place at 10:00 am Friday February 9, 2024 also at St. Theresa Catholic Church with Rev. Donald Bedore as Celebrant. Burial will follow in Dighton Memorial Cemetery with Military Honors performed by the United States Navy Honor Guard. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Don Miller Memorial Fund in care of Boomhower Funeral Home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Lee Miller

Melvin F. Meis passed away on February 3, 2024, at Cedar Village, Ness City, Kansas. He was born on October 29, 1930, in Ness City, Kansas, the son of Leo and Sera (Stecklein) Meis. Melvin went to Sunshine School and then graduated from Ness City High School in 1948. He was a lifelong resident of Ness City.

Melvin married Lora Jean Rohr on September 15, 1952.

In the early Spring of 1959, Melvin started Meis Construction and began building houses. If you’ve lived in Ness City for any time, you probably know someone that lives in a home built by Melvin. He built over 85 homes, remodeled, or built over 13 commercial buildings and recorded over 40 major additions on homes (not counting the number of finishing basements, building garages, kitchen cabinet jobs, etc.) While he was semi-retired, he continued smaller remodeling jobs on his own.

Melvin was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ness City. He joined the Knights of Columbus on May 1, 1949, and he earned his 2nd and 3rd degrees. He served as Grand Knight from 2002-2004. He was just 3 months short of being a Knight for 75 years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lora Jean, on May 21, 2006, as well as his parents and seven siblings. Survivors include four daughters, Paulette (Keith) Pfannenstiel, Baldwin City, Kansas; Carol Deanne (Steve) Mulvihill, Berthoud, Colorado; Myrna Mohr, Berthoud, Colorado; and Melinda (Randy) Warford, Taylorsville, Kentucky; two brothers, Don and Arlin; three sisters, Julie Beutler, Diane Klaus and Delores Musetto; 11 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Ness City. Private services will be on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ness City preceded by a Rosary at 9:30 a.m., burial in Sacred Heart Cemetery.&nbsp;

Memorials are suggested to Sacred Heart Parish.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707332614999.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Melvin F. Meis passed away on February 3, 2024, at Cedar Village, Ness City, Kansas. He was born on October 29, 1930, in Ness City, Kansas, the son of Leo and Sera (Stecklein) Meis. Melvin went to Sunshine School and then graduated from Ness City High School in 1948. He was a lifelong resident of Ness City.Melvin married Lora Jean Rohr on September 15, 1952.In the early Spring of 1959, Melvin started Meis Construction and began building houses. If you’ve lived in Ness City for any time, you probably know someone that lives in a home built by Melvin. He built over 85 homes, remodeled, or built over 13 commercial buildings and recorded over 40 major additions on homes (not counting the number of finishing basements, building garages, kitchen cabinet jobs, etc.) While he was semi-retired, he continued smaller remodeling jobs on his own.Melvin was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ness City. He joined the Knights of Columbus on May 1, 1949, and he earned his 2nd and 3rd degrees. He served as Grand Knight from 2002-2004. He was just 3 months short of being a Knight for 75 years.He was preceded in death by his wife, Lora Jean, on May 21, 2006, as well as his parents and seven siblings. Survivors include four daughters, Paulette (Keith) Pfannenstiel, Baldwin City, Kansas; Carol Deanne (Steve) Mulvihill, Berthoud, Colorado; Myrna Mohr, Berthoud, Colorado; and Melinda (Randy) Warford, Taylorsville, Kentucky; two brothers, Don and Arlin; three sisters, Julie Beutler, Diane Klaus and Delores Musetto; 11 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.Visitation will be from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Ness City. Private services will be on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ness City preceded by a Rosary at 9:30 a.m., burial in Sacred Heart Cemetery.&nbsp;Memorials are suggested to Sacred Heart Parish.

Melvin F. Meis

Maurice Lee Hall, 83, died Feb 2, 2024 at Legacy in Salina.&nbsp;

He was born Nov 17, 1940 in Larned to Earl and Louise (King) Hall.

A lifetime resident, he was the director of EMS before retiring in 2002. He served in the United States Navy.&nbsp;

&nbsp;On June 25, 1962 he married Judy Hoeck; she survives

Other survivors include: two sons, Maurice (Brenda) Hall, Garfield, Michael (Stephanie) Hall, Salina; sister Jolene Bryant, Dodge City; two granddaughters, Michaela (Randy) Picking, Salina, Kelsie (Ariel) Hall, Salina; four great- grandchildren, Elias Williams, Abby Picking, Rylan Picking, Raelynn Picking; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Michelle Marie; brother, Roland Hall; and three sisters, Mary Lange, Pat Haremza, and Sharon Baxter.

Memorial service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel, Larned. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, February 12, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary. Inurnment in Larned Cemetery with military graveside rites.

Memorials may be given to Pawnee County EMS in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707332553055.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Maurice Lee Hall, 83, died Feb 2, 2024 at Legacy in Salina.&nbsp;He was born Nov 17, 1940 in Larned to Earl and Louise (King) Hall.A lifetime resident, he was the director of EMS before retiring in 2002. He served in the United States Navy.&nbsp;&nbsp;On June 25, 1962 he married Judy Hoeck; she survivesOther survivors include: two sons, Maurice (Brenda) Hall, Garfield, Michael (Stephanie) Hall, Salina; sister Jolene Bryant, Dodge City; two granddaughters, Michaela (Randy) Picking, Salina, Kelsie (Ariel) Hall, Salina; four great- grandchildren, Elias Williams, Abby Picking, Rylan Picking, Raelynn Picking; and many nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Michelle Marie; brother, Roland Hall; and three sisters, Mary Lange, Pat Haremza, and Sharon Baxter.Memorial service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel, Larned. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, February 12, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary. Inurnment in Larned Cemetery with military graveside rites.Memorials may be given to Pawnee County EMS in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.&nbsp;

Maurice Lee Hall

Beverly J. Cornelison, 83, passed away February 5, 2024 at Country Place Senior Living, Larned.

&nbsp;She was born March 27, 1940 in Larned, the daughter of C. Kenneth and Luella Maxine Givens Murray.

A lifetime Larned resident, she owned and operated Murray Grain Trucking. She was a member of First Christian Church, Pawnee County Humane Society, and afternoon coffee club, all of Larned.

Survivors include: son, Daryl (Jill) Cornelison, Wichita; two daughters, Sheri McQueen, Henderson, Nevada, Sheli (Rick) Nemeth, Ludell, Kansas; sister, Bonnie (Clinton) Russell, Belpre; seven grandchildren, and one great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Gary Robert Murray, and two sisters, Barbara Root and Betty Gardner.

Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 9, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned. Burial in Larned Cemetery.

Memorials may be given too Pawnee County Humane Society in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707332413206.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Beverly J. Cornelison, 83, passed away February 5, 2024 at Country Place Senior Living, Larned.&nbsp;She was born March 27, 1940 in Larned, the daughter of C. Kenneth and Luella Maxine Givens Murray.A lifetime Larned resident, she owned and operated Murray Grain Trucking. She was a member of First Christian Church, Pawnee County Humane Society, and afternoon coffee club, all of Larned.Survivors include: son, Daryl (Jill) Cornelison, Wichita; two daughters, Sheri McQueen, Henderson, Nevada, Sheli (Rick) Nemeth, Ludell, Kansas; sister, Bonnie (Clinton) Russell, Belpre; seven grandchildren, and one great grandchild.She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Gary Robert Murray, and two sisters, Barbara Root and Betty Gardner.Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 9, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned. Burial in Larned Cemetery.Memorials may be given too Pawnee County Humane Society in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.&nbsp;

Beverly J. Cornelison

Lois Burr Combs born August 23, 1928 to Frank and Jessie Burr, passed away February 3, 2024 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Lois graduated from Bird City High School, Bird City, Kansas in 1946 and attended Ft. Hays State University where she met Lee Combs and married November 26, 1948. They had two daughters Lisa and Laurel and moved from Spearville, Kansas to Lebanon Kansas. Lee retired from his teaching and administrative career moving to Larned, Kansas in 1984. Lee passed away in 1988. Lois was a member of the Larned First Christian Church and Women’s Fellowship Group. She was also a church representative to the Pawnee County Food Pantry and a clerk at C.W.F. thrift shop and was also a past member of St. Joseph Hospital Auxiliary.

Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Lee and granddaughter Leah Walter, sister Melba Herrman and husband Ben and her brother Bill Burr, wife Darlene and nephew Richard.

Survivors are daughters Lisa Walter and husband Phillip, Laurel Younger and husband Les, grandson Bryce Younger and wife Leslie and two great granddaughters Avery Younger and Quinn Younger. Lois also is survived by two nieces and one nephew.

Graveside services will be held at Larned Cemetery Friday, February 9th at 10 AM with Pastor Bill Stapleton presiding. &nbsp;Visitation will be held at Beckwith Mortuary Larned, Kansas on Thursday February 8 from 9AM to 8PM with family present from 3 to 5PM.

Memorial gifts may be made to First Christian Church, in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550. &nbsp;Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Lois Burr Combs born August 23, 1928 to Frank and Jessie Burr, passed away February 3, 2024 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.Lois graduated from Bird City High School, Bird City, Kansas in 1946 and attended Ft. Hays State University where she met Lee Combs and married November 26, 1948. They had two daughters Lisa and Laurel and moved from Spearville, Kansas to Lebanon Kansas. Lee retired from his teaching and administrative career moving to Larned, Kansas in 1984. Lee passed away in 1988. Lois was a member of the Larned First Christian Church and Women’s Fellowship Group. She was also a church representative to the Pawnee County Food Pantry and a clerk at C.W.F. thrift shop and was also a past member of St. Joseph Hospital Auxiliary.Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Lee and granddaughter Leah Walter, sister Melba Herrman and husband Ben and her brother Bill Burr, wife Darlene and nephew Richard.Survivors are daughters Lisa Walter and husband Phillip, Laurel Younger and husband Les, grandson Bryce Younger and wife Leslie and two great granddaughters Avery Younger and Quinn Younger. Lois also is survived by two nieces and one nephew.Graveside services will be held at Larned Cemetery Friday, February 9th at 10 AM with Pastor Bill Stapleton presiding. &nbsp;Visitation will be held at Beckwith Mortuary Larned, Kansas on Thursday February 8 from 9AM to 8PM with family present from 3 to 5PM.Memorial gifts may be made to First Christian Church, in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550. &nbsp;Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Lois Burr Combs

Eunice Elizabeth (Schempp) Prediger, 91, of Russell, Kansas and formerly of Dorrance, Kansas, passed away Monday, February 5, 2024 at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.

Eunice was born June 14, 1932, in Brunsville, Iowa.&nbsp; She was one of three children born to Rev. Andrew and Ida (Henne) Schempp.&nbsp; In 1948 the family moved to Dorrance. She graduated from Dorrance High School in 1950.

Eunice was united in marriage to Gerald Prediger on May 17, 1953 in Dorrance.&nbsp; This union was blessed with five children; Joel, John, Susan, Kay, and James.&nbsp; They made their home in Dorrance.&nbsp; Gerald preceded her in death on February 15, 1993.

Eunice was a devoted wife and homemaker for her family.&nbsp; Before being married she worked as a Clerk at the Russell State Bank.&nbsp; Later in life, she worked for the Malir Insurance Agency in Wilson, Kansas.&nbsp; She was an active member of the First Lutheran Church of Dorrance.&nbsp; For over 33 years, she served in the Women’s Group, taught Sunday school and was the Financial Secretary.&nbsp; Her family was the twinkle in her eye.&nbsp; She loved attending family gatherings.

Eunice’s surviving family includes children, Joel Prediger (Sue) of Hays, John Prediger of Belleville, Susan Steinert (Kevin) of Concordia, Kay Prediger of Hays, and James Prediger (Lori) of San Pedro, Belize; brother, Andrew Schempp, Jr. (Patricia) of Salina; four grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; a niece, and several nephews.

Eunice was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gerald; and sister, Lillian Stoppel.

Celebration of Eunice’s life will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, February 12, 2024, at First Lutheran Church of Dorrance.&nbsp; Cremation has taken place and a private burial will follow later.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to service time, Monday at the Church.&nbsp; A Memorial has been established with First Lutheran Church of Dorrance.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, 610 N. Maple, Russell, KS 67665, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707330520772.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Eunice Elizabeth (Schempp) Prediger, 91, of Russell, Kansas and formerly of Dorrance, Kansas, passed away Monday, February 5, 2024 at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.Eunice was born June 14, 1932, in Brunsville, Iowa.&nbsp; She was one of three children born to Rev. Andrew and Ida (Henne) Schempp.&nbsp; In 1948 the family moved to Dorrance. She graduated from Dorrance High School in 1950.Eunice was united in marriage to Gerald Prediger on May 17, 1953 in Dorrance.&nbsp; This union was blessed with five children; Joel, John, Susan, Kay, and James.&nbsp; They made their home in Dorrance.&nbsp; Gerald preceded her in death on February 15, 1993.Eunice was a devoted wife and homemaker for her family.&nbsp; Before being married she worked as a Clerk at the Russell State Bank.&nbsp; Later in life, she worked for the Malir Insurance Agency in Wilson, Kansas.&nbsp; She was an active member of the First Lutheran Church of Dorrance.&nbsp; For over 33 years, she served in the Women’s Group, taught Sunday school and was the Financial Secretary.&nbsp; Her family was the twinkle in her eye.&nbsp; She loved attending family gatherings.Eunice’s surviving family includes children, Joel Prediger (Sue) of Hays, John Prediger of Belleville, Susan Steinert (Kevin) of Concordia, Kay Prediger of Hays, and James Prediger (Lori) of San Pedro, Belize; brother, Andrew Schempp, Jr. (Patricia) of Salina; four grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; a niece, and several nephews.Eunice was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gerald; and sister, Lillian Stoppel.Celebration of Eunice’s life will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, February 12, 2024, at First Lutheran Church of Dorrance.&nbsp; Cremation has taken place and a private burial will follow later.&nbsp; Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to service time, Monday at the Church.&nbsp; A Memorial has been established with First Lutheran Church of Dorrance.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, 610 N. Maple, Russell, KS 67665, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Eunice Elizabeth (Schempp) Prediger

Greg Ernst, age 65, of Ellis, Kansas passed away Saturday, February 3, 2024 in Ellis.

Celebration of Life services will be 3:00 PM Friday, February 9, 2024 at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.

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

A full obituary will be provided when completed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>Greg Ernst, age 65, of Ellis, Kansas passed away Saturday, February 3, 2024 in Ellis.Celebration of Life services will be 3:00 PM Friday, February 9, 2024 at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Greg's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.A full obituary will be provided when completed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Greg Ernst

He was born July 22, 1942 in Texas County, Missouri, the son of Leslie and Verna (Farris) Patterson. Sam married Rosalie Klaus in June 1981 in Midland, Texas, and they celebrated 42 years of marriage. He enjoyed his truck driving career, restoring vehicles, and going to car shows. Most of all, he loved his family and his dog, Buddy.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 pm until 5:00 on Friday, February 9, 2024 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences and memories of Sam may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
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 </figure>Sammy Dean “Sam” Patterson, 81, Hays, died Monday, February 5, 2024 at HaysMed.He was born July 22, 1942 in Texas County, Missouri, the son of Leslie and Verna (Farris) Patterson. Sam married Rosalie Klaus in June 1981 in Midland, Texas, and they celebrated 42 years of marriage. He enjoyed his truck driving career, restoring vehicles, and going to car shows. Most of all, he loved his family and his dog, Buddy.Survivors include his wife Rosalie of Hays, his son, Timmy Patterson of Texas, a step-daughter, Karen Simpson and husband Tom of Arizona, four step-sons, Bruce Befort and wife Janel of Texas, Rod Befort and wife Kathy of Garden City, Clayton Befort and wife Sharon of Hays, and Rex Befort and wife Karen of Wichita, 11 grandchildren, Chad, Cole, Cory, Becky, Tammy, Clinton, Austin, Shellie, Andy, Mitch, and Cory, 14 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, four sisters, and a nephew.The family will receive friends from 3:00 pm until 5:00 on Friday, February 9, 2024 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences and memories of Sam may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

Sammy Dean “Sam” Patterson

Sharon Kay Munday, 79, of Greeley, CO, passed away February 4, 2024 at her home in Greeley following a prolonged neurological disorder. She was born on August 21, 1944 in Stafford, KS to John Jacob and Ethelene A. (Rowland) Christy and was one of five children.

She graduated from Hays High School in Hays, KS in 1962. She also graduated from Cosmetology School in 1963. Sharon met her husband, Alan Loy Munday, while in High School and they were married June 15, 1964. They had two daughters together.

The family moved to Ft. Morgan, CO in August of 1973 where Sharon worked as a teacher’s aide and later as a bookkeeper for her husband’s business.

Sharon and Alan moved to Greeley, CO in 1995. She retired from Banner Health in 2006. She enjoyed spending time in her garden, spending time with her grand dogs, and watching the Denver Nuggets and Bronco’s play. She also enjoyed spending time with her nephew, Tyler Christy (Milliken, CO) and her nieces, Dawn (James) Turner (Milliken, CO) and Danette Christy (Milliken, CO).

Sharon is survived by her husband, Alan; children, Crystal Munday (Elizabeth, CO), Julie (Dwight) Mallory (Windsor, CO), and six grand dogs.

The family will host a Celebration of Life on February 24, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. at the home of Julie and Dwight Mallory, 620 Southwood Ln., Windsor, CO 80550. Please visit www.stoddardsunset.com to sign an online guestbook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707269035107.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Sharon Kay Munday, 79, of Greeley, CO, passed away February 4, 2024 at her home in Greeley following a prolonged neurological disorder. She was born on August 21, 1944 in Stafford, KS to John Jacob and Ethelene A. (Rowland) Christy and was one of five children.She graduated from Hays High School in Hays, KS in 1962. She also graduated from Cosmetology School in 1963. Sharon met her husband, Alan Loy Munday, while in High School and they were married June 15, 1964. They had two daughters together.The family moved to Ft. Morgan, CO in August of 1973 where Sharon worked as a teacher’s aide and later as a bookkeeper for her husband’s business.Sharon and Alan moved to Greeley, CO in 1995. She retired from Banner Health in 2006. She enjoyed spending time in her garden, spending time with her grand dogs, and watching the Denver Nuggets and Bronco’s play. She also enjoyed spending time with her nephew, Tyler Christy (Milliken, CO) and her nieces, Dawn (James) Turner (Milliken, CO) and Danette Christy (Milliken, CO).Sharon is survived by her husband, Alan; children, Crystal Munday (Elizabeth, CO), Julie (Dwight) Mallory (Windsor, CO), and six grand dogs.The family will host a Celebration of Life on February 24, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. at the home of Julie and Dwight Mallory, 620 Southwood Ln., Windsor, CO 80550. Please visit www.stoddardsunset.com to sign an online guestbook.

Sharon Kay Munday

Kenneth “Kenny” Frank Branda, of rural Wilson, passed away on February 1, 2024, at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas, at the age of 80. He was born on October 19, 1943, to Bohumil “Shorty” and Edith (Mahoney) Branda in Ellsworth, Kansas.

Kenny graduated from Wilson High School in 1961 and went on to attend Fort Hays State University. He chose a ski trip over his finals, which ended his higher education. He married Amy (Hoch) in front of a few close friends and family on June 3, 2005, in rural Wilson.

Kenny farmed his whole life, which began with his father. He started plumbing in 1963 before starting Kennys Construction, Inc in 1972. Kenny was in the construction business for 52 years. Kenny played in the dirt every opportunity he had, whether it was moving and setting up drilling rigs, digging basements, or building roads and terraces. He was a perfectionist in his work and didn’t quit until the work was just right. Kenny would also move snow in the winter from the high school parking lot, clear streets and driveways for those who he knew needed to go to doctors’ appointments, etc.

God did not give Kenny patience. He would paint something and have it assembled before the paint even dried. Which resulted in getting paint all over his hands and clothes. Before he was old enough to have a license, he rode his bike to town and traded it for his first car. Later in life Kenny and Amy purchased two jet skis. Kenny had to try them out on the pond before he could get them on the lake. He and the jet ski both ended up on the shore.

Kenny was a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus (Former Grand Knight), Wilson High School Alumni Association (Coordinator), Sons of the American Legion, Former City Council Member, and Former Wilson Fire Department Chief.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Amy of rural Wilson; daughters, Joan Branda of Trenton, TX, Sharon (Mike) McConnell of South Haven, KS; bonus son, Martin (Courtney) Swart of Canton, KS; five grandchildren, Kristin (Josh) Weger, Jessica (Cody) Douglas, Kaitlin (Roger) Graham, Breanna (Seth) Stroman, James McConnell and his two bonus grandchildren, Kensington and Oliver Swart and ten great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the funeral home in Wilson. Visitation will be on Friday, 6:00-8:00 PM with a Rosary at 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Scattering will take place at a later time in Rural Wilson.

Memorials are suggested to Wilson Alumni Association and Golden Belt Humane Society and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, P.O. Box 533, Wilson, KS 67490.

Kenneth “Kenny” Frank Branda, of rural Wilson, passed away on February 1, 2024, at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas, at the age of 80. He was born on October 19, 1943, to Bohumil “Shorty” and Edith (Mahoney) Branda in Ellsworth, Kansas.Kenny graduated from Wilson High School in 1961 and went on to attend Fort Hays State University. He chose a ski trip over his finals, which ended his higher education. He married Amy (Hoch) in front of a few close friends and family on June 3, 2005, in rural Wilson.Kenny farmed his whole life, which began with his father. He started plumbing in 1963 before starting Kennys Construction, Inc in 1972. Kenny was in the construction business for 52 years. Kenny played in the dirt every opportunity he had, whether it was moving and setting up drilling rigs, digging basements, or building roads and terraces. He was a perfectionist in his work and didn’t quit until the work was just right. Kenny would also move snow in the winter from the high school parking lot, clear streets and driveways for those who he knew needed to go to doctors’ appointments, etc.God did not give Kenny patience. He would paint something and have it assembled before the paint even dried. Which resulted in getting paint all over his hands and clothes. Before he was old enough to have a license, he rode his bike to town and traded it for his first car. Later in life Kenny and Amy purchased two jet skis. Kenny had to try them out on the pond before he could get them on the lake. He and the jet ski both ended up on the shore.Kenny was a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus (Former Grand Knight), Wilson High School Alumni Association (Coordinator), Sons of the American Legion, Former City Council Member, and Former Wilson Fire Department Chief.Kenny is survived by his wife, Amy of rural Wilson; daughters, Joan Branda of Trenton, TX, Sharon (Mike) McConnell of South Haven, KS; bonus son, Martin (Courtney) Swart of Canton, KS; five grandchildren, Kristin (Josh) Weger, Jessica (Cody) Douglas, Kaitlin (Roger) Graham, Breanna (Seth) Stroman, James McConnell and his two bonus grandchildren, Kensington and Oliver Swart and ten great-grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents.A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the funeral home in Wilson. Visitation will be on Friday, 6:00-8:00 PM with a Rosary at 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Scattering will take place at a later time in Rural Wilson.Memorials are suggested to Wilson Alumni Association and Golden Belt Humane Society and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, P.O. Box 533, Wilson, KS 67490.

Kenneth “Kenny” Frank Branda

Connie Rae (Nudson) Carlson, of Gaylord, KS, passed away on January 31, 2024, at the Smith County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, at the age of 79. She was born on April 4, 1944, to Virgil Y. and Mildred M. (Noland) Nudson in Manhattan, KS. She was married to Keith L. Carlson on February 14, 1965, in Sedalia, KS. They were blessed with two sons: Cory and Coley.

Connie grew up in the Keats, Riley area of Riley County, KS and graduated from Riley County High School in 1962. She started out working alongside her mother at Farm Bureau in Manhattan, and then for a while she was a welder at Gilmore-Tatge in Clay Center where she welded flight for augers. She was a school bus driver for students from Kindergarten to Seniors for 10 years, a UPS driver in Manhattan, Ft. Riley, and Junction City, a custodian and greenhouse operator at KSU and at the same time an animal caretaker used for the purpose of teaching students. She and Keith were members at one time of the Wagon Wheel Whirlers Square Dancers and Buckbrush Riders Saddle Club.

Connie grew up with horses and owned a number of them. Connie and Keith almost always had horses, cows and milk cows, pigs, and chickens. She was a great gardener and did a lot of canning. She enjoyed exploring mountains, deserts, and where Indians lived, prospecting, and oil and acrylic painting. She excelled in all ways and endeavors from wife, mother, homemaker, partner, friend, and getting us all through hard times.

Connie is survived by her husband, Keith of Gaylord; sons, Cory Dale (Cathy) Carlson of Stockton, KS and Coley Joe (Carol) Carlson of Kiowa, CO; sister, Debra Lynn Nudson; 5 grandchildren, Warren Tyler (Melissa) Carlson, Colesie Lea Carlson, Orin (Tracy) Carlson, Dylan (Eleanor) Carlson, and Cheyene Carlson; and 3 great-grandchildren, Wade, Riley and Logan Carlson.

Preceding Connie in death are her parents.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 1PM at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS. Casual wear may be worn.

Connie Rae (Nudson) Carlson, of Gaylord, KS, passed away on January 31, 2024, at the Smith County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, at the age of 79. She was born on April 4, 1944, to Virgil Y. and Mildred M. (Noland) Nudson in Manhattan, KS. She was married to Keith L. Carlson on February 14, 1965, in Sedalia, KS. They were blessed with two sons: Cory and Coley.Connie grew up in the Keats, Riley area of Riley County, KS and graduated from Riley County High School in 1962. She started out working alongside her mother at Farm Bureau in Manhattan, and then for a while she was a welder at Gilmore-Tatge in Clay Center where she welded flight for augers. She was a school bus driver for students from Kindergarten to Seniors for 10 years, a UPS driver in Manhattan, Ft. Riley, and Junction City, a custodian and greenhouse operator at KSU and at the same time an animal caretaker used for the purpose of teaching students. She and Keith were members at one time of the Wagon Wheel Whirlers Square Dancers and Buckbrush Riders Saddle Club.Connie grew up with horses and owned a number of them. Connie and Keith almost always had horses, cows and milk cows, pigs, and chickens. She was a great gardener and did a lot of canning. She enjoyed exploring mountains, deserts, and where Indians lived, prospecting, and oil and acrylic painting. She excelled in all ways and endeavors from wife, mother, homemaker, partner, friend, and getting us all through hard times.Connie is survived by her husband, Keith of Gaylord; sons, Cory Dale (Cathy) Carlson of Stockton, KS and Coley Joe (Carol) Carlson of Kiowa, CO; sister, Debra Lynn Nudson; 5 grandchildren, Warren Tyler (Melissa) Carlson, Colesie Lea Carlson, Orin (Tracy) Carlson, Dylan (Eleanor) Carlson, and Cheyene Carlson; and 3 great-grandchildren, Wade, Riley and Logan Carlson.Preceding Connie in death are her parents.A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 1PM at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS. Casual wear may be worn.

Connie Rae (Nudson) Carlson

Genette Elaine (Nelson) Keas, of Plainville, KS, passed away on February 3, 2024, at the Rooks County Health Center after a brief illness, at the age of 92. She was born on May 29, 1931, the third daughter of Merle and Ethel (Lamb) Nelson in Codell, Kansas.

Genette grew up in the Codell community where she worked in her family’s grocery store, pumped gas for customers, and roller skated many miles up and down the sidewalk. She was a good student and graduated from Codell High School in 1949. She never lost her love of reading and always encouraged her family to read with frequent trips to the library. Genette married Glenn “Buck” Keas on September 14, 1949. They settled on a farm in the Twin Mounds area of Rooks County and raised their four children there.

Genette was an active member of the community and enjoyed participating in various clubs and organizations, including the Stitch and Chatter Club, EHU, and Farm Bureau. She served as a 4-H leader and taught Sunday School for many years. She was part of the same quilting group at Codell Baptist Church where her mother and grandmother had quilted. In later years, Genette was a member of First Christian Church of Plainville where she volunteered in many capacities. Genette baked countless cookies, cakes, pies, and kolaches as well as other treats. She once baked her way through an entire cookbook of bread recipes, much to her family’s approval. She brought home many Grand Champion awards from the Rooks County Fair where she volunteered for over forty years. In 2018 Genette was honored with the Volunteer of the Year Award by the Auxiliary of Rooks County Health Center. Throughout her life Genette enjoyed playing cards and games. She worked crossword puzzles for many years and had a dog-eared crossword dictionary to prove it. Genette moved to assisted living in 2018 but that did not stop her participation in church activities or her knitting group. She continued to be helpful to those living around her.

Genette was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Glenn Keas; sisters Geraldine Davenport, Genevieve Zeigler, and Gwendolyn Nelson; an infant brother; and son-in-law, Byron Beal.

She is survived by her children Margena Worley (Allen) of Chesterfield, VA, Dena Pederson (Gary) of McPherson, KS, Douglas Keas (Stacey) of Plainville, KS, and Matthew Keas (Pat) of Plainville, KS; sisters-in-law, Karen Preston and Gena Lee Keas; 13 treasured grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren whom she welcomed each with an afghan she had crocheted; and many nieces and nephews.

Genette lived a good life surrounded by people who loved her.

A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 10:30AM at the First Christian Church in Plainville. Visitation will be Thursday, 2-7PM with the family receiving friends 4-6PM at the funeral home in Plainville.

Memorials are suggested to the Plainville Memorial Library or Rooks County Fair Board and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.

Genette Elaine (Nelson) Keas, of Plainville, KS, passed away on February 3, 2024, at the Rooks County Health Center after a brief illness, at the age of 92. She was born on May 29, 1931, the third daughter of Merle and Ethel (Lamb) Nelson in Codell, Kansas.Genette grew up in the Codell community where she worked in her family’s grocery store, pumped gas for customers, and roller skated many miles up and down the sidewalk. She was a good student and graduated from Codell High School in 1949. She never lost her love of reading and always encouraged her family to read with frequent trips to the library. Genette married Glenn “Buck” Keas on September 14, 1949. They settled on a farm in the Twin Mounds area of Rooks County and raised their four children there.Genette was an active member of the community and enjoyed participating in various clubs and organizations, including the Stitch and Chatter Club, EHU, and Farm Bureau. She served as a 4-H leader and taught Sunday School for many years. She was part of the same quilting group at Codell Baptist Church where her mother and grandmother had quilted. In later years, Genette was a member of First Christian Church of Plainville where she volunteered in many capacities. Genette baked countless cookies, cakes, pies, and kolaches as well as other treats. She once baked her way through an entire cookbook of bread recipes, much to her family’s approval. She brought home many Grand Champion awards from the Rooks County Fair where she volunteered for over forty years. In 2018 Genette was honored with the Volunteer of the Year Award by the Auxiliary of Rooks County Health Center. Throughout her life Genette enjoyed playing cards and games. She worked crossword puzzles for many years and had a dog-eared crossword dictionary to prove it. Genette moved to assisted living in 2018 but that did not stop her participation in church activities or her knitting group. She continued to be helpful to those living around her.Genette was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Glenn Keas; sisters Geraldine Davenport, Genevieve Zeigler, and Gwendolyn Nelson; an infant brother; and son-in-law, Byron Beal.She is survived by her children Margena Worley (Allen) of Chesterfield, VA, Dena Pederson (Gary) of McPherson, KS, Douglas Keas (Stacey) of Plainville, KS, and Matthew Keas (Pat) of Plainville, KS; sisters-in-law, Karen Preston and Gena Lee Keas; 13 treasured grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren whom she welcomed each with an afghan she had crocheted; and many nieces and nephews.Genette lived a good life surrounded by people who loved her.A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 10:30AM at the First Christian Church in Plainville. Visitation will be Thursday, 2-7PM with the family receiving friends 4-6PM at the funeral home in Plainville.Memorials are suggested to the Plainville Memorial Library or Rooks County Fair Board and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.

Genette Elaine (Nelson) Keas

Abby was born January 10, 1981 in the Phillipsburg, KS hospital, and passed on January 30, 2024 in the Smith County Memorial Hospital, Smith Center, KS. She was baptized in the American Lutheran Church, Smith Center, on February 8, 1981, and confirmed in May of 1995. She spent the majority of her life living in Gaylord, KS. She appreciated the folks and town of her youth and did her best to repay this community while working as a city treasurer and later as city clerk throughout her life.

Abby was ‘big sis’ to her twin sisters Baylee and Catlin, and when disgusted with their antics, she tried her best to ‘give them away.’ Her mother, Barb, would be quickly notified by a close neighbor, Minnie Henning, of Abby’s mission. The three girls played Barbies, baby dolls, games and enjoyed their kitties, Mr. Whiskers and Lady Petunia. Sometimes the chaos of twin sisters led Abby to spend more time with her dad, Dennis, to help irrigate, check cattle, and be ‘a big helper’ with field work. When older, Abby helped her younger sisters as they worked on 4-H projects, competing in floral, gardening, baking, craft and livestock projects.

Abby thoroughly enjoyed learning and appreciated her teachers’ encouragement. All of her teachers helped Abby find various career paths. Abby attended Gaylord Grade School until her sixth-grade year, and then transferred to the Kensington School District. She graduated as a Goldbug on May 5, 1999. From Bob Bearley, she learned : God is Good! From Don Weins, she learned to give her time to helping others, whether in the school, town, or community. From Butch Whelchel, she learned analytical decision making and organizational skills helped, not only at meat’s judging contests, but also in life. Abby graduated from Colby College with a Vet Tech’s degree in 2001. Then she worked as a vet tech in Smith Center, Osborne, and Ellsworth, KS. Later she studied Veterinary Science at KSU, but left to work as a secretary and city clerk. Abby liked the challenge of studying city documents, interpretating ordinances, and completing government regulation forms. She wanted the Gaylord kids to have fond memories of their youth, so she planned a Halloween party which has become a yearly event. This was a dedication to Jeri Brooks, another mentor for Abby. When the city clerk position became part time, she worked for MAP. Later she worked at the Guaranty Bank in Smith Center. Abby found herself among a group of unique individuals who included her as a friend from day one. Their friendship and laughter eased the constant reminder of her ongoing health problems.

Abby married Wil Neussendorfer on October 16, 2010, at the American Lutheran Church. When Wil repeated his vows, ‘in sickness and in health’, he faithfully demonstrated this meaning every day. They, usually, enjoyed working the endless hours when remodeling their home. They enjoyed concerts, traveling the countryside, helping Dennis with farming, and running farm errands. With Wil’s encouragement, Abby started professional machine quilting, and many quilts will carry on in her memory, especially those displaying her free hand quilting of feathers.

In May of 2011, when hospitalized in the Wesley Hospital, she learned of her Renal disease. Here, after the loss of infant son, Montgomery, her life changed forever. In 2013, Abby started dialysis, and when unable to perform dialysis at home, she spent three days a week driving or being driven to Kearney for dialysis. Because of her Vet Tech degree and interest in medicine, she understood her disease and carried through with the doctor’s orders. The disease controlled her life, but she kept a cheerful outlook and did her best to perform her tasks at hand. As she often remarked: I’m taking one for the team.

Abby was brave, and she taught her family the meaning of courage. Few realize the physical pain she suffered; few realize her mental endurance. A day after her passing, we saw a lone robin perched on the tallest branch of our backyard crabapple tree, chirping his spring song melody We interpret this to mean: Abby is in ‘the great beyond,‘ holding her infant son, Montgomery. Now, for Abby, her spiritual eternity is good because God is good.

Left to mourn: Wil Neussendorfer (husband) Gaylord; Barbara and Dennis Lehmann (parents) Gaylord; Baylee (sister) CA; Catlin (sister) and Brian (brother-in-law) Shawnee .

Ken and Susan Neussendorfer (in laws) ND; Megan and Tyler Neussendorfer (step children) ND.

Brock and Ruth Mueller (uncle and aunt) Sylvan Grove; Shay and Shannon (cousins) and their families.

Bill and Sheryl Thorpe (cousins), North Carolina; and son Steve and family.

Daryl and Katherine Lehmann (uncle and aunt) Smith Center; their children TJ, Candy, and Dallas (cousins) and their families.

Dean and Dixie Matson (uncle and aunt) Wichita, and their children Lindsey and Wes (cousins) and their families.

Denton and Kathy Lehmann (uncle and aunt) Smith Center; Scout, Kris and Spenser (cousins) and their families.

Dirk and Roberta Lehmann (uncle and Aunt), Eudora; Dominic, Cecilia, Victoria, Sophia, Olivia, and Derek (cousins) and their families.

Preceding in death: Montgomery Neussendorfer; Raymond and Audrey Mueller; Leland and Vanora Lehmann; Dianne Wahl; Craig Neussendorfer; Allen and Dorothy Olson; Paul and Magdeline Neussendorfer.

Abby was born January 10, 1981 in the Phillipsburg, KS hospital, and passed on January 30, 2024 in the Smith County Memorial Hospital, Smith Center, KS. She was baptized in the American Lutheran Church, Smith Center, on February 8, 1981, and confirmed in May of 1995. She spent the majority of her life living in Gaylord, KS. She appreciated the folks and town of her youth and did her best to repay this community while working as a city treasurer and later as city clerk throughout her life.Abby was ‘big sis’ to her twin sisters Baylee and Catlin, and when disgusted with their antics, she tried her best to ‘give them away.’ Her mother, Barb, would be quickly notified by a close neighbor, Minnie Henning, of Abby’s mission. The three girls played Barbies, baby dolls, games and enjoyed their kitties, Mr. Whiskers and Lady Petunia. Sometimes the chaos of twin sisters led Abby to spend more time with her dad, Dennis, to help irrigate, check cattle, and be ‘a big helper’ with field work. When older, Abby helped her younger sisters as they worked on 4-H projects, competing in floral, gardening, baking, craft and livestock projects.Abby thoroughly enjoyed learning and appreciated her teachers’ encouragement. All of her teachers helped Abby find various career paths. Abby attended Gaylord Grade School until her sixth-grade year, and then transferred to the Kensington School District. She graduated as a Goldbug on May 5, 1999. From Bob Bearley, she learned : God is Good! From Don Weins, she learned to give her time to helping others, whether in the school, town, or community. From Butch Whelchel, she learned analytical decision making and organizational skills helped, not only at meat’s judging contests, but also in life. Abby graduated from Colby College with a Vet Tech’s degree in 2001. Then she worked as a vet tech in Smith Center, Osborne, and Ellsworth, KS. Later she studied Veterinary Science at KSU, but left to work as a secretary and city clerk. Abby liked the challenge of studying city documents, interpretating ordinances, and completing government regulation forms. She wanted the Gaylord kids to have fond memories of their youth, so she planned a Halloween party which has become a yearly event. This was a dedication to Jeri Brooks, another mentor for Abby. When the city clerk position became part time, she worked for MAP. Later she worked at the Guaranty Bank in Smith Center. Abby found herself among a group of unique individuals who included her as a friend from day one. Their friendship and laughter eased the constant reminder of her ongoing health problems.Abby married Wil Neussendorfer on October 16, 2010, at the American Lutheran Church. When Wil repeated his vows, ‘in sickness and in health’, he faithfully demonstrated this meaning every day. They, usually, enjoyed working the endless hours when remodeling their home. They enjoyed concerts, traveling the countryside, helping Dennis with farming, and running farm errands. With Wil’s encouragement, Abby started professional machine quilting, and many quilts will carry on in her memory, especially those displaying her free hand quilting of feathers.In May of 2011, when hospitalized in the Wesley Hospital, she learned of her Renal disease. Here, after the loss of infant son, Montgomery, her life changed forever. In 2013, Abby started dialysis, and when unable to perform dialysis at home, she spent three days a week driving or being driven to Kearney for dialysis. Because of her Vet Tech degree and interest in medicine, she understood her disease and carried through with the doctor’s orders. The disease controlled her life, but she kept a cheerful outlook and did her best to perform her tasks at hand. As she often remarked: I’m taking one for the team.Abby was brave, and she taught her family the meaning of courage. Few realize the physical pain she suffered; few realize her mental endurance. A day after her passing, we saw a lone robin perched on the tallest branch of our backyard crabapple tree, chirping his spring song melody We interpret this to mean: Abby is in ‘the great beyond,‘ holding her infant son, Montgomery. Now, for Abby, her spiritual eternity is good because God is good.Left to mourn: Wil Neussendorfer (husband) Gaylord; Barbara and Dennis Lehmann (parents) Gaylord; Baylee (sister) CA; Catlin (sister) and Brian (brother-in-law) Shawnee .Ken and Susan Neussendorfer (in laws) ND; Megan and Tyler Neussendorfer (step children) ND.Brock and Ruth Mueller (uncle and aunt) Sylvan Grove; Shay and Shannon (cousins) and their families.Bill and Sheryl Thorpe (cousins), North Carolina; and son Steve and family.Daryl and Katherine Lehmann (uncle and aunt) Smith Center; their children TJ, Candy, and Dallas (cousins) and their families.Dean and Dixie Matson (uncle and aunt) Wichita, and their children Lindsey and Wes (cousins) and their families.Denton and Kathy Lehmann (uncle and aunt) Smith Center; Scout, Kris and Spenser (cousins) and their families.Dirk and Roberta Lehmann (uncle and Aunt), Eudora; Dominic, Cecilia, Victoria, Sophia, Olivia, and Derek (cousins) and their families.Preceding in death: Montgomery Neussendorfer; Raymond and Audrey Mueller; Leland and Vanora Lehmann; Dianne Wahl; Craig Neussendorfer; Allen and Dorothy Olson; Paul and Magdeline Neussendorfer.

Aubrey (Abby) Lehmann Neussendorfer

Wanda Raelene Prowse, 69, passed away January 30, 2024, in rural Smith County, Kansas. She was born September 27, 1954, in Lyons, Kan., to Dwight D. and Lou Ann (Mitchell) Ritterhouse. She had previously married Mark Bartlett, Jr., at Great Bend, Kan., later marrying Daniel Prowse January 7, 2000, at Albert, Kan.&nbsp;

A current Natoma, Kan. resident coming from Cimarron, Syracuse and Great Bend, Wanda, a cosmetologist at heart, was a paraprofessional and bus driver for U.S.D. 399 in Natoma. &nbsp;Previous to her U.S.D. 399 employment, Wanda was employed by Hamilton County FSA, Ingalls Feed Yard, Bryant Funeral Home, CPI, CKMC, and JC Penney hair salon. &nbsp;She was a member of Mother of Twins, and enjoyed BINGO, bowling, attending rodeos, fellowship with friends, and above all, was a very proud and dedicated wife, mom, grandma, and great grandma. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707160887424.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wanda Raelene Prowse, 69, passed away January 30, 2024, in rural Smith County, Kansas. She was born September 27, 1954, in Lyons, Kan., to Dwight D. and Lou Ann (Mitchell) Ritterhouse. She had previously married Mark Bartlett, Jr., at Great Bend, Kan., later marrying Daniel Prowse January 7, 2000, at Albert, Kan.&nbsp;A current Natoma, Kan. resident coming from Cimarron, Syracuse and Great Bend, Wanda, a cosmetologist at heart, was a paraprofessional and bus driver for U.S.D. 399 in Natoma. &nbsp;Previous to her U.S.D. 399 employment, Wanda was employed by Hamilton County FSA, Ingalls Feed Yard, Bryant Funeral Home, CPI, CKMC, and JC Penney hair salon. &nbsp;She was a member of Mother of Twins, and enjoyed BINGO, bowling, attending rodeos, fellowship with friends, and above all, was a very proud and dedicated wife, mom, grandma, and great grandma. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Survivors include, her husband, Daniel Prowse, and son, Colton Prowse, both of the home; two daughters, Amanda Mitchell (Bradley) of Pratt and Andrea Bartlett (Tracy) of Great Bend and; three brothers, Robert Ritterhouse and wife Lois of Albert, Lyle Ritterhouse and (Darcy) of Lyons, and a brother that was recently discovered, Robert Price of College Station, Texas; a sister, Susan Hendricks and husband Harry of Raymond; three grandchildren, Cheyanne Bartlett, Cassidee Hoch and Mary Hoch; a great granddaughter, MaKena Moss; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.Wanda was preceded in passing by her parents Dwight and Lou Ritterhouse; and a nephew, Darren Ritterhouse.Celebration of Life services are pending. &nbsp;Memorials have been designated to Colton Prowse Education Fund, Wanda’s Expense Fund, or USD 399 Foundation, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Obituaries