Betty J. Pruter of Natoma passed away at her home on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. 

Services are pending with Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell and Natoma.

Betty J. Pruter of Natoma passed away at her home on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. Services are pending with Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell and Natoma.

Betty J. Pruter 

Sherril “Lynn” Cameron, 83, of Colby, passed away at Citizens Medical Center, Colby on Jan. 3, 2024. He was born on May 6, 1940, to Orville Hershel and Veva (Miller) Cameron, in Colby.

Lynn was a lifetime resident of Colby and attended Colby schools. Due to having polio at the age of 13, his education was delayed, but he was able to successfully complete his schooling and graduate with the class of 1960.

Lynn worked many jobs around Colby, but the one he enjoyed the most was working maintenance and custodial at Colby Community College for 40 years. He retired from there in 2019. This job allowed him the opportunity to study under Ken Mitchell to expand his artistic talent. Not too many people knew he could draw, that awesome photos and also sing.

Over the years, Lynn had many interests, which included roller skating, riding motorcycles and fishing, with bowling being his favorite pastime. He also loved woodworking, eventually giving away and selling some of his projects.

Lynn married Carol (Neill-Custard) Cameron on May 3, 2014, in Colby. With this marriage, he gained a daughter, three sons and grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Orville and Veva Cameron; brother Marian Ray Cameron; brother-in-law Alan D. Beougher and son-in-law Lee Jaderlund.

He leaves behind his wife, Carol; daughters from his first marriage, Dawn Cameron and Deana Jaderlund, both of Washington State; from his marriage to Carol, children; Bonnie (Doug) Lewis, Cheney, Raymond “Mike” Custard, Colby, Gary (Daphne) Custard, Springer, Okla., and James Custard, Ardmore, Okla.; siblings, Sharon Beougher, Burlington, and Jay (Sally) Cameron, Hoxie; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Cremation was chosen. A private family burial will take place at a later date in the Lacey Township Cemetery, Gem, Kan. Cards may be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>.

Sherril “Lynn” Cameron, 83, of Colby, passed away at Citizens Medical Center, Colby on Jan. 3, 2024. He was born on May 6, 1940, to Orville Hershel and Veva (Miller) Cameron, in Colby.Lynn was a lifetime resident of Colby and attended Colby schools. Due to having polio at the age of 13, his education was delayed, but he was able to successfully complete his schooling and graduate with the class of 1960.Lynn worked many jobs around Colby, but the one he enjoyed the most was working maintenance and custodial at Colby Community College for 40 years. He retired from there in 2019. This job allowed him the opportunity to study under Ken Mitchell to expand his artistic talent. Not too many people knew he could draw, that awesome photos and also sing.Over the years, Lynn had many interests, which included roller skating, riding motorcycles and fishing, with bowling being his favorite pastime. He also loved woodworking, eventually giving away and selling some of his projects.Lynn married Carol (Neill-Custard) Cameron on May 3, 2014, in Colby. With this marriage, he gained a daughter, three sons and grandchildren.Preceding him in death were his parents, Orville and Veva Cameron; brother Marian Ray Cameron; brother-in-law Alan D. Beougher and son-in-law Lee Jaderlund.He leaves behind his wife, Carol; daughters from his first marriage, Dawn Cameron and Deana Jaderlund, both of Washington State; from his marriage to Carol, children; Bonnie (Doug) Lewis, Cheney, Raymond “Mike” Custard, Colby, Gary (Daphne) Custard, Springer, Okla., and James Custard, Ardmore, Okla.; siblings, Sharon Beougher, Burlington, and Jay (Sally) Cameron, Hoxie; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.Cremation was chosen. A private family burial will take place at a later date in the Lacey Township Cemetery, Gem, Kan. Cards may be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>.

Sherril 'Lynn' Cameron

Elmen Dale “Bud” Wright – dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and friend – passed away at Logan County Hospital on Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024.

Bud was born to Ole and Goldie Wright in Oakley, KS. He graduated from Oakley High School. Bud was known to be a “jack-of-all-trades” and did many things throughout his life. It was common for people to call on him to fix, repair, or install various things.

Bud had been active in the local Lodge and in his church. He enjoyed spending time with family members and talking to many friends. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, as well as four children, seven grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, numerous extended family members, and a wealth of friends.

No memorial service is planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the United Christian Church of Oakley and condolences may be sent to Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704393624907.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Elmen Dale “Bud” Wright – dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and friend – passed away at Logan County Hospital on Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024.Bud was born to Ole and Goldie Wright in Oakley, KS. He graduated from Oakley High School. Bud was known to be a “jack-of-all-trades” and did many things throughout his life. It was common for people to call on him to fix, repair, or install various things.Bud had been active in the local Lodge and in his church. He enjoyed spending time with family members and talking to many friends. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, as well as four children, seven grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, numerous extended family members, and a wealth of friends.No memorial service is planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the United Christian Church of Oakley and condolences may be sent to Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Elmen "Bud" Dale Wright

Friday, May 16th, 1947-Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024

A full obituary will be posted when it becomes available.

<h2>Sidsel Anna Kamp (Johannessen)</h2>Friday, May 16th, 1947-Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024A full obituary will be posted when it becomes available.

Sidsel Anna Kamp (Johannessen)

&nbsp;verna Marie Eby, 92, of Goodland, died Saturday, December 30, 2023, at Citizens Medical Center, in Colby. She was born April 10, 1931, in Herndon, KS, to Urban and Helen (Solko) Lippold. On September 20, 1949, she married George Fredrick Eby. They settled in Goodland, where she remained a lifelong resident.

Iverna was preceded in death by her parents; husband George; sister Betty Pickett; children, Rhonda Lovins and Stan Eby and grandchildren, Terry Steier and Cathy Deterding.

She is survived by her daughters, Debbie Steier, Nandy Anderson and Becky (Don) Luckert; sister Delphine (Richard) Dozbaba; 18 grandchildren; 44 great grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren.

Cremation was chosen. A private family burial will take place at a later date in the Goodland Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Iverna Eby Memorial Fund and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;verna Marie Eby, 92, of Goodland, died Saturday, December 30, 2023, at Citizens Medical Center, in Colby. She was born April 10, 1931, in Herndon, KS, to Urban and Helen (Solko) Lippold. On September 20, 1949, she married George Fredrick Eby. They settled in Goodland, where she remained a lifelong resident.Iverna was preceded in death by her parents; husband George; sister Betty Pickett; children, Rhonda Lovins and Stan Eby and grandchildren, Terry Steier and Cathy Deterding.She is survived by her daughters, Debbie Steier, Nandy Anderson and Becky (Don) Luckert; sister Delphine (Richard) Dozbaba; 18 grandchildren; 44 great grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren.Cremation was chosen. A private family burial will take place at a later date in the Goodland Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Iverna Eby Memorial Fund and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iverna Marie Eby (Lippold)

Joaquín García Chávez married Carlota Franco Torres on June 25, 1961 in Mexico. &nbsp;He worked for many years in road construction. &nbsp;He loved his horses and enjoyed being with his family. He was a very cheerful husband, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, father-in-law, and friend.

Other members of the family include his children, Ramon Garcia (Morima), Jesus Manuel Garcia (Fela), Maria Garcia (Antonio), Natividad Garcia (Amanda), Raul Garcia (Karina), Joaquin Garcia, Jr. (Brenda), numerous grandchildren and two&nbsp;brothers and three sisters.

He was preceded in death by a grandson, a brother and a sister.

August 7, 1941 - January 1, 2024Joaquín García Chávez married Carlota Franco Torres on June 25, 1961 in Mexico. &nbsp;He worked for many years in road construction. &nbsp;He loved his horses and enjoyed being with his family. He was a very cheerful husband, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, father-in-law, and friend.Other members of the family include his children, Ramon Garcia (Morima), Jesus Manuel Garcia (Fela), Maria Garcia (Antonio), Natividad Garcia (Amanda), Raul Garcia (Karina), Joaquin Garcia, Jr. (Brenda), numerous grandchildren and two&nbsp;brothers and three sisters.He was preceded in death by a grandson, a brother and a sister.

Joaquín García Chávez

Lynn Raymond Menagh, 74, of Norton, Kansas passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, December 31, 2023 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska.

Lynn was born in Oxford, Nebraska, on June 17, 1949, to his parents, Merlin and Betty Menagh. He had one sister, Sher Drassen, and three brothers, Mike Menagh, Terry Menagh, and Steve Menagh. Lynn attended kindergarten through 12th grade in several rural towns in Nebraska and graduated from Ainsworth High School in 1967. He then attended Kearney State College and graduated in 1971. In Kearney, he met his wife Pamela Daffer and they married on June 14, 1970. Lynn took graduate classes from the University of Nebraska-Omaha and continuing education classes at Baker University throughout his career.

Lynn taught Industrial Arts in Friend, Nebraska from 1971-1972. From 1973 until 1985, he served as a police officer and a police sergeant in Crete, Nebraska. In 1985, Lynn was selected to be the Chief of Police in Norton, Kansas where he served until his retirement in 2007. Over his career, he provided counseling to high school students and co-wrote the original DUI statute in Kansas. Lynn also served his country in the Army National Guard for several years and was honorably discharged in 1977.

Lynn enjoyed being a police officer and working with his law enforcement peers in Nebraska and Kansas, as well as providing support to the community. Lynn was involved with the Norton Classic Cruisers and took his restored classic cars to various car shows in the Midwest and travelled several times on Tour Nebraska.

Lynn never met a stranger and made a humorous comment to everyone he met. His family, both immediate and extended, were extremely important to him. In his spare time, he enjoyed restoring classic cars, spending time with family, camping, fishing, hunting, going to coffee with his friends at the Sheriff’s office, and relaxing at his lake house in Kearney.

Survivors include Lynn’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren: Chad and Jennifer Menagh, grandchildren Isabel and Luke, great-grandchild Hudson (Crete, NE), Corey and Amie Menagh, grandchildren Sydney and Colby (Norton, KS), Zach and Megan Zielonko, grandchildren Ava and Ethan (Denver, CO). Lynn is also survived by his siblings: Sher and Mel Drassen (Golden, MO), Mike and Lora Menagh (Centennial, CO), Terry and Denise Menagh (Beatrice, NE), Steve and Rhonda Menagh (South Bend, NE). He was preceded in death by his spouse, Pamela Daffer; his parents, Merlin and Betty Menagh; and in-laws Carl and Josephine Welborn.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm Saturday, January 6, 2024 at Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, Norton. Burial will follow in the Norton Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 pm Friday, January 5, 2024 also at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of the Prairie Dog State Park and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com

Lynn Raymond Menagh, 74, of Norton, Kansas passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, December 31, 2023 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska.Lynn was born in Oxford, Nebraska, on June 17, 1949, to his parents, Merlin and Betty Menagh. He had one sister, Sher Drassen, and three brothers, Mike Menagh, Terry Menagh, and Steve Menagh. Lynn attended kindergarten through 12th grade in several rural towns in Nebraska and graduated from Ainsworth High School in 1967. He then attended Kearney State College and graduated in 1971. In Kearney, he met his wife Pamela Daffer and they married on June 14, 1970. Lynn took graduate classes from the University of Nebraska-Omaha and continuing education classes at Baker University throughout his career.Lynn taught Industrial Arts in Friend, Nebraska from 1971-1972. From 1973 until 1985, he served as a police officer and a police sergeant in Crete, Nebraska. In 1985, Lynn was selected to be the Chief of Police in Norton, Kansas where he served until his retirement in 2007. Over his career, he provided counseling to high school students and co-wrote the original DUI statute in Kansas. Lynn also served his country in the Army National Guard for several years and was honorably discharged in 1977.Lynn enjoyed being a police officer and working with his law enforcement peers in Nebraska and Kansas, as well as providing support to the community. Lynn was involved with the Norton Classic Cruisers and took his restored classic cars to various car shows in the Midwest and travelled several times on Tour Nebraska.Lynn never met a stranger and made a humorous comment to everyone he met. His family, both immediate and extended, were extremely important to him. In his spare time, he enjoyed restoring classic cars, spending time with family, camping, fishing, hunting, going to coffee with his friends at the Sheriff’s office, and relaxing at his lake house in Kearney.Survivors include Lynn’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren: Chad and Jennifer Menagh, grandchildren Isabel and Luke, great-grandchild Hudson (Crete, NE), Corey and Amie Menagh, grandchildren Sydney and Colby (Norton, KS), Zach and Megan Zielonko, grandchildren Ava and Ethan (Denver, CO). Lynn is also survived by his siblings: Sher and Mel Drassen (Golden, MO), Mike and Lora Menagh (Centennial, CO), Terry and Denise Menagh (Beatrice, NE), Steve and Rhonda Menagh (South Bend, NE). He was preceded in death by his spouse, Pamela Daffer; his parents, Merlin and Betty Menagh; and in-laws Carl and Josephine Welborn.Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm Saturday, January 6, 2024 at Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, Norton. Burial will follow in the Norton Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7:00 pm Friday, January 5, 2024 also at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of the Prairie Dog State Park and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com

Lynn Raymond Menagh

Our dear mother and grandmother, Wilda Mae Koehn Yost, was born to Edward and Katie Koehn on November 18, 1933, in rural Grant County, Kansas. She departed this life for her new home in Glory on January 1, 2024, at Western Prairie Care Home in Ulysses, Kansas.

When Mom was four years old, she and her family moved to the farm just three-quarters of a mile north of the present Grant Mennonite church. Here, along with her seven siblings, she learned the lessons that would serve her well for the rest of her life, including the three-quarter mile walk to school nearly every day of her school life. Mom’s memory was sharp and clear to the last, and we listened with interest as she recalled the memories of those far away days. One of her cherished memories was that the revival meetings held in the Rock Island School house sometimes lasting as long as six weeks.

Her conversion was clear, testifying to the simple plan of salvation. Seeking relief from her burden of sin, she confessed to her mother that she too, along with her friends, wanted to become converted, and peace flooded her soul. Upon the confession of her faith, she was baptized into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite on March 27, 1947. Nothing could stop her from remaining true to these vows unto the end.

Mom married our dad, Loren Yost, in the new little white Grant Mennonite Church on Easter Sunday, April 22, 1962. They were the first couple married in the newly organized congregation in Grant County.

Mom and Dad lived in a number of different locations, always following Dad’s dream of being a farmer. In the course of time, we five children were born, sharing in the various moves- some locally, some out of state, and one as far away as Canada.

In 1976, Mom felt a need for a more stable situation for us children, and with the help of the brethren, a suitable house was found, and Mom made it into a home. She lived in this home until just six weeks ago.

After being married for almost exactly thirty-three years, on another Easter Sunday, April 16, 1995, Dad was tragically taken from us in an automobile accident. Mother loved us children unconditionally, and we believe that her prayers for us will never be forgotten by her God.

Mother’s determination to take care of herself in her own home was very clear as she neared her ninetieth birthday with birthday preparations well underway. This was not to be. Sunday, August 27, was the start of her cancer journey…Three days before her birthday she moved into the care home.

However, her testimony was clear. “The time I have left is likely short, and my work is done.”

Those left to treasure her memory: three sons; Rod and Jonetta, Bentley, KS; Doyle and Marilyn, Ulysses, KS; and Sanford, Ulysses, KS; one daughter, Melissa and Steve Seiler, Shepherd, MI; eleven grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; two brothers, Leevern Koehn, Bonners Ferry, ID; and Wilbur and Lovella Koehn, Grant, NE; one sister, Luella Koehn, Montezuma, KS; and one sister-in-law, Bonnie Jackson, DeRidder, LA.

Wilda was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Loran; one daughter, Verona Yost; and four brothers.

Funeral service will be Friday, January 5, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Grant Mennonite Church in rural Grant County with Minister Stuart Jantzen and Minister Karlan Koehn officiating. Interment will follow at the Grant Mennonite Cemetery. Arrangements are in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Our dear mother and grandmother, Wilda Mae Koehn Yost, was born to Edward and Katie Koehn on November 18, 1933, in rural Grant County, Kansas. She departed this life for her new home in Glory on January 1, 2024, at Western Prairie Care Home in Ulysses, Kansas.When Mom was four years old, she and her family moved to the farm just three-quarters of a mile north of the present Grant Mennonite church. Here, along with her seven siblings, she learned the lessons that would serve her well for the rest of her life, including the three-quarter mile walk to school nearly every day of her school life. Mom’s memory was sharp and clear to the last, and we listened with interest as she recalled the memories of those far away days. One of her cherished memories was that the revival meetings held in the Rock Island School house sometimes lasting as long as six weeks.Her conversion was clear, testifying to the simple plan of salvation. Seeking relief from her burden of sin, she confessed to her mother that she too, along with her friends, wanted to become converted, and peace flooded her soul. Upon the confession of her faith, she was baptized into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite on March 27, 1947. Nothing could stop her from remaining true to these vows unto the end.Mom married our dad, Loren Yost, in the new little white Grant Mennonite Church on Easter Sunday, April 22, 1962. They were the first couple married in the newly organized congregation in Grant County.Mom and Dad lived in a number of different locations, always following Dad’s dream of being a farmer. In the course of time, we five children were born, sharing in the various moves- some locally, some out of state, and one as far away as Canada.In 1976, Mom felt a need for a more stable situation for us children, and with the help of the brethren, a suitable house was found, and Mom made it into a home. She lived in this home until just six weeks ago.After being married for almost exactly thirty-three years, on another Easter Sunday, April 16, 1995, Dad was tragically taken from us in an automobile accident. Mother loved us children unconditionally, and we believe that her prayers for us will never be forgotten by her God.Mother’s determination to take care of herself in her own home was very clear as she neared her ninetieth birthday with birthday preparations well underway. This was not to be. Sunday, August 27, was the start of her cancer journey…Three days before her birthday she moved into the care home.However, her testimony was clear. “The time I have left is likely short, and my work is done.”Those left to treasure her memory: three sons; Rod and Jonetta, Bentley, KS; Doyle and Marilyn, Ulysses, KS; and Sanford, Ulysses, KS; one daughter, Melissa and Steve Seiler, Shepherd, MI; eleven grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; two brothers, Leevern Koehn, Bonners Ferry, ID; and Wilbur and Lovella Koehn, Grant, NE; one sister, Luella Koehn, Montezuma, KS; and one sister-in-law, Bonnie Jackson, DeRidder, LA.Wilda was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Loran; one daughter, Verona Yost; and four brothers.Funeral service will be Friday, January 5, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Grant Mennonite Church in rural Grant County with Minister Stuart Jantzen and Minister Karlan Koehn officiating. Interment will follow at the Grant Mennonite Cemetery. Arrangements are in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wilda Mae Koehn Yost

Dessa Fay Woods, age 76, passed away at the Greeley County Long Term Care in Tribune, Kansas on Tuesday, January 2, 2024. She was born in Tribune, Kansas on April 23, 1947, to Glenn Alfred and Dessa Fay Crittenden Doty. She worked at the hospital as a nurse's aide and purchaser. She was also involved in the local 4H and a victory walk volunteer. She was a member of the Syracuse Weyslian Church in Syracuse, Kansas.&nbsp;

On January 8, 1966. Dessa married Eugene Woods at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Tribune, Kansas. He survives.

Dessa is survived by her husband, her sons Jeff Woods of Bowling Green, Missouri, Brad &amp; Laura Woods of Tribune, Kansas, Doug &amp; Alisha Woods of Tribune, Kansas, Lance Woods of Horace, Kansas, her uncle Web Crittenden of Horace, Kansas, her aunts- Pat &amp; Marty Caraway of Washington D.C., Betty Palmer of California, &nbsp;brother, Gary Doty of Stafford, Kansas, sister, Glenna Fogo of Larned, Kansas one grandson, Tyler Woods, and two great-granddaughters - Karlie and Kinley Woods.

Dessa is preceded in death by her parents, and her sister Pamela Sue Babcock.

Funeral Service will be on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Price and Sons Funeral Home at 322 2nd St., Tribune, Kansas, 67879.

Interment will follow at the Greeley County Cemetery.

In Lieu of Flowers, memorials may be written to the Victory Walk in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 161, Leoti, Kansas 67861.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704393057753.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Dessa Fay Woods, age 76, passed away at the Greeley County Long Term Care in Tribune, Kansas on Tuesday, January 2, 2024. She was born in Tribune, Kansas on April 23, 1947, to Glenn Alfred and Dessa Fay Crittenden Doty. She worked at the hospital as a nurse's aide and purchaser. She was also involved in the local 4H and a victory walk volunteer. She was a member of the Syracuse Weyslian Church in Syracuse, Kansas.&nbsp;On January 8, 1966. Dessa married Eugene Woods at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Tribune, Kansas. He survives.Dessa is survived by her husband, her sons Jeff Woods of Bowling Green, Missouri, Brad &amp; Laura Woods of Tribune, Kansas, Doug &amp; Alisha Woods of Tribune, Kansas, Lance Woods of Horace, Kansas, her uncle Web Crittenden of Horace, Kansas, her aunts- Pat &amp; Marty Caraway of Washington D.C., Betty Palmer of California, &nbsp;brother, Gary Doty of Stafford, Kansas, sister, Glenna Fogo of Larned, Kansas one grandson, Tyler Woods, and two great-granddaughters - Karlie and Kinley Woods.Dessa is preceded in death by her parents, and her sister Pamela Sue Babcock.Funeral Service will be on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Price and Sons Funeral Home at 322 2nd St., Tribune, Kansas, 67879.Interment will follow at the Greeley County Cemetery.In Lieu of Flowers, memorials may be written to the Victory Walk in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 161, Leoti, Kansas 67861.

Dessa Fay Woods

Clarinda M. “Cindy” Unrein, age 95, passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at the Scott County Hospital in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on November 29, 1928, in Modoc, Kansas, the daughter of Alexander Jacob &amp; Susanna Eva Klein Weber.&nbsp; A resident of Scott City, Kansas since 1953 moving from LaCrosse, Kansas, she was a restaurant owner &amp; operator of Cindy’s Drive-In and then a bookkeeper for Hoover Electric.

She was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Daughters Of Isabella, Altar Society, and Beta-Sigma-Phi Sorority all of Scott City, Kansas.

On June 21, 1949, she married Marvin H. Unrein in LaCrosse, Kansas.&nbsp; He passed away on February 1, 2007, in Scott City, Kansas.

Survivors include her One Son - Terry &amp; Sharon Unrein of Wichita, Kansas, Two Daughters - Beverly Pinnell of Nixa, Missouri, Kathryn Lowenthal of Scott City, Kansas, One Sister - Rosetta Tuzicka of Scott City, Kansas, Seven Grandchildren and Ten Great Grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by Her Parents, Husband, One Sister - Hedy Coughlin, Four Brothers - Marvin Weber, Loyd Weber, Elmer Weber, Everett Weber, and One Grandson - David Guhr.

Vigil services will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 5, 2024, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Scott City, Kansas.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 6, 2024, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Scott City, Kansas with Fr. Don Bedore presiding.

Memorials can be written to the St. Joseph Catholic Church or Scott County VIP Center in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 553, Scott City, Kansas, 67871.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Friday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, 401 S. Washington St., Scott City, Kansas.

Graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, January 6, 2024, in the LaCrosse Cemetery in LaCrosse, Kansas pending weather conditions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704393008487.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Clarinda M. “Cindy” Unrein, age 95, passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at the Scott County Hospital in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on November 29, 1928, in Modoc, Kansas, the daughter of Alexander Jacob &amp; Susanna Eva Klein Weber.&nbsp; A resident of Scott City, Kansas since 1953 moving from LaCrosse, Kansas, she was a restaurant owner &amp; operator of Cindy’s Drive-In and then a bookkeeper for Hoover Electric.She was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Daughters Of Isabella, Altar Society, and Beta-Sigma-Phi Sorority all of Scott City, Kansas.On June 21, 1949, she married Marvin H. Unrein in LaCrosse, Kansas.&nbsp; He passed away on February 1, 2007, in Scott City, Kansas.Survivors include her One Son - Terry &amp; Sharon Unrein of Wichita, Kansas, Two Daughters - Beverly Pinnell of Nixa, Missouri, Kathryn Lowenthal of Scott City, Kansas, One Sister - Rosetta Tuzicka of Scott City, Kansas, Seven Grandchildren and Ten Great Grandchildren.She was preceded in death by Her Parents, Husband, One Sister - Hedy Coughlin, Four Brothers - Marvin Weber, Loyd Weber, Elmer Weber, Everett Weber, and One Grandson - David Guhr.Vigil services will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 5, 2024, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Scott City, Kansas.Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 6, 2024, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Scott City, Kansas with Fr. Don Bedore presiding.Memorials can be written to the St. Joseph Catholic Church or Scott County VIP Center in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 553, Scott City, Kansas, 67871.Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Friday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, 401 S. Washington St., Scott City, Kansas.Graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, January 6, 2024, in the LaCrosse Cemetery in LaCrosse, Kansas pending weather conditions.

Clarinda M. "Cindy" Unrein

Franco Barrientez Cruz, age 69 years, lifelong Great Bend, Kansas resident, passed away on Tuesday morning, December 19, 2023 at Azria Health Woodhaven in Great Bend. &nbsp;Franco was born on March 10, 1954 at Great Bend to Juan and Minga (Barrientez) Cruz. He was united in marriage to Karen A. Stoskopf on May 9, 1980 in Great Bend. They later divorced, but remained close friends. Throughout his life, Franco worked in the oilfield, and as a mechanic and welder before he became disabled in 2009. &nbsp;His passions were working on old cars, watching Westerns on television, and a love for animals of all kinds. &nbsp;Franco loved showing off his large collection of tools. He was very popular and loved to take the time to talk to friends everywhere he went. Franco was a member of the Church of Christ at Great Bend.

Survivors include a son, John Cruz of Great Bend; two daughters: Shilo Cruz (&amp; Timothy Galliart) and Sarah Cruz (&amp; David Alseike) all of Great Bend; two grandchildren: &nbsp;Trenten Vsetecka and Sophie Cruz; his former wife, Karen Gerhart of Great Bend; a brother, Oxley Barrientez; and numerous cousins. &nbsp;Franco was preceded in death by his parents; one brother Jesse Flores and a grand-daughter JuneAnna Cruz-Gray.

Cremation has been chosen and a joint Celebration of Life Service for Franco Cruz and Jesse Flores will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 11:00 am at Church of Christ in Great Bend, Kansas. The family requests that Memorial Contributions be directed to the Franco Cruz Funeral Expense Fund.&nbsp;

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 </figure>Franco Barrientez Cruz, age 69 years, lifelong Great Bend, Kansas resident, passed away on Tuesday morning, December 19, 2023 at Azria Health Woodhaven in Great Bend. &nbsp;Franco was born on March 10, 1954 at Great Bend to Juan and Minga (Barrientez) Cruz. He was united in marriage to Karen A. Stoskopf on May 9, 1980 in Great Bend. They later divorced, but remained close friends. Throughout his life, Franco worked in the oilfield, and as a mechanic and welder before he became disabled in 2009. &nbsp;His passions were working on old cars, watching Westerns on television, and a love for animals of all kinds. &nbsp;Franco loved showing off his large collection of tools. He was very popular and loved to take the time to talk to friends everywhere he went. Franco was a member of the Church of Christ at Great Bend.Survivors include a son, John Cruz of Great Bend; two daughters: Shilo Cruz (&amp; Timothy Galliart) and Sarah Cruz (&amp; David Alseike) all of Great Bend; two grandchildren: &nbsp;Trenten Vsetecka and Sophie Cruz; his former wife, Karen Gerhart of Great Bend; a brother, Oxley Barrientez; and numerous cousins. &nbsp;Franco was preceded in death by his parents; one brother Jesse Flores and a grand-daughter JuneAnna Cruz-Gray.Cremation has been chosen and a joint Celebration of Life Service for Franco Cruz and Jesse Flores will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 11:00 am at Church of Christ in Great Bend, Kansas. The family requests that Memorial Contributions be directed to the Franco Cruz Funeral Expense Fund.&nbsp;

Franco Barrientez Cruz

Wanda Jeannine Brown, 80, of Russell, died on Monday, Jan. 1, 2024, at her home in Russell.

Wanda was born on Oct. 9, 1943, in Russell, the daughter of Herman and Mary K. (Ginther) Deines. She grew up and spent her entire life in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in the class of 1961.

She was married to Dennis Dean Brown on May 16, 1970, at St. John Lutheran Church in Russell. From this union, Wanda and Dennis were blessed with four children — sons Shane, Wade and Kelby, and daughter Tara. She worked for many years at Home State Bank in Russell and later worked as a certified nursing assistant at Wheatland Nursing Home in Russell.

She was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church. She enjoyed riding around town in her car, playing bingo and reading magazines. Most of all she enjoyed being with her family and spending time with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Surviving family includes her sons, Shane Brown and wife Jill of Russell, Wade Brown of Wichita and Kelby Brown of Russell and daughter Tara Brown-Suchy and husband Jerry of Russell, sister Mary Ann Hogan of Russell; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Rod Deines and sister Sylvia June Farr.

A celebration of Wanda’s life will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Russell, and burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery in Russell. Visitation will be from 1 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024, at the mortuary with family greeting guests from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the mortuary.

Memorials may be given to the Wanda J. Brown Memorial Fund and sent to PVP Mortuary, 610 N. Maple St., Russell, KS 67665. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
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 </figure>Wanda Jeannine Brown, 80, of Russell, died on Monday, Jan. 1, 2024, at her home in Russell.Wanda was born on Oct. 9, 1943, in Russell, the daughter of Herman and Mary K. (Ginther) Deines. She grew up and spent her entire life in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in the class of 1961.She was married to Dennis Dean Brown on May 16, 1970, at St. John Lutheran Church in Russell. From this union, Wanda and Dennis were blessed with four children — sons Shane, Wade and Kelby, and daughter Tara. She worked for many years at Home State Bank in Russell and later worked as a certified nursing assistant at Wheatland Nursing Home in Russell.She was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church. She enjoyed riding around town in her car, playing bingo and reading magazines. Most of all she enjoyed being with her family and spending time with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Surviving family includes her sons, Shane Brown and wife Jill of Russell, Wade Brown of Wichita and Kelby Brown of Russell and daughter Tara Brown-Suchy and husband Jerry of Russell, sister Mary Ann Hogan of Russell; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Rod Deines and sister Sylvia June Farr.A celebration of Wanda’s life will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Russell, and burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery in Russell. Visitation will be from 1 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024, at the mortuary with family greeting guests from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the mortuary.Memorials may be given to the Wanda J. Brown Memorial Fund and sent to PVP Mortuary, 610 N. Maple St., Russell, KS 67665. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Wanda Jeannine Brown

Linda S. “Cindy” Dunham, 73, formerly of Hays and Great Bend, died Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023, at Wilson Care and Rehabilitation Center in Wilson.

She was born Jan. 22, 1950, in Hays, the daughter of Jack and Esther (Butler) Dunham. Cindy graduated from Great Bend Senior High School. She loved sports and playing softball, and after graduating from high school, she moved to Oklahoma City, where she played women’s football with the Oklahoma City Dolls. Cindy worked for El-Kan in Ellsworth and as a corrections officer in Oklahoma City.

Cindy later moved to the Fort Lauderdale, Fla., area and bought her first home in Hollywood, Fla. She took great pride in her home, doing much of the remodeling herself.

 In Florida, she put herself through cosmetology school and became a hairdresser. After a short time, she chose a different career path and enrolled in the police academy. After graduating and working for many years, not missing any work, she retired at the early age of 62 from Miami-Dade Corrections.

Cindy returned to Great Bend from Florida in January 2022. In August 2022, she moved to Hays to live with her nephew Patrick Meyeres Nolan. As her health declined, she was moved to skilled nursing care in Wilson. She loved animals but was especially fond of cats and dogs.

Survivors include her three siblings, Janet Meyeres and David Dunham, both of Great Bend and Gary Dunham of Wilson, formerly of Great Bend, five nieces and nephews, and ten great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, and two brothers, Jack L. “Jackie” Dunham and Stephen L. “Steve” Dunham.

Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences and memories of Cindy may be left for her family at <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">www.haysmemorial.com</a>.

Linda S. “Cindy” Dunham, 73, formerly of Hays and Great Bend, died Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023, at Wilson Care and Rehabilitation Center in Wilson.She was born Jan. 22, 1950, in Hays, the daughter of Jack and Esther (Butler) Dunham. Cindy graduated from Great Bend Senior High School. She loved sports and playing softball, and after graduating from high school, she moved to Oklahoma City, where she played women’s football with the Oklahoma City Dolls. Cindy worked for El-Kan in Ellsworth and as a corrections officer in Oklahoma City.Cindy later moved to the Fort Lauderdale, Fla., area and bought her first home in Hollywood, Fla. She took great pride in her home, doing much of the remodeling herself. In Florida, she put herself through cosmetology school and became a hairdresser. After a short time, she chose a different career path and enrolled in the police academy. After graduating and working for many years, not missing any work, she retired at the early age of 62 from Miami-Dade Corrections.Cindy returned to Great Bend from Florida in January 2022. In August 2022, she moved to Hays to live with her nephew Patrick Meyeres Nolan. As her health declined, she was moved to skilled nursing care in Wilson. She loved animals but was especially fond of cats and dogs.Survivors include her three siblings, Janet Meyeres and David Dunham, both of Great Bend and Gary Dunham of Wilson, formerly of Great Bend, five nieces and nephews, and ten great-nieces and great-nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, and two brothers, Jack L. “Jackie” Dunham and Stephen L. “Steve” Dunham.Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences and memories of Cindy may be left for her family at <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">www.haysmemorial.com</a>.

Linda S. 'Cindy' Dunham

Mary Worcester, also known as Marilyn “Mary” June Maxine (Maupin) Worcester, passed away peacefully December 30, 2023, at the age of 87 in Hill City, Kansas. She was born June 23, 1936, on the farm north of Antelope Lake, near Morland, Kansas, to Charles Courtney and Essie Lydia (White) Maupin. Mary was a beloved member of her community and will be deeply missed by her friends, family, and all who knew her.

Mary was described as the epitome of sweetness. She had a kind heart and a generous spirit, which endeared her to everyone she met. She made it very easy for everyone to love her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Mary's educational journey began at a country school north of Antelope Lake near Morland, Kansas. She then attended public schools in Morland, Kansas with two years at Morland High School and then two years at Hill City High School, in Hill City, Kansas, while providing nanny services to the Chipman family. She graduated from Hill City High School in May 1954. After graduating from Hill City High School, Mary was married to Don Worcester September 5, 1954. Mary also pursued outreach classes in bookkeeping through Colby Community College.

Throughout her life, Mary dedicated herself to raising her children and later found employment at Shields IGA in town. She then spent 27 years working as a bookkeeper and clerk for The Farmers Lumber Company of Hill City, Kansas. Mary and Don also owned the Pomeroy Inn for many years in Hill City, which she considered her pride and joy. At the Inn, she baked extraordinary homemade cinnamon rolls for the guests and the local community before heading to work at the lumber yard. Mary saw the inn not only as a business, but also as a mission to help people. She often provided accommodation for needy families and individuals, who had been referred to her by the Hill City Ministerial Alliance, without any cost.

Mary's faith played an important role in her life. While raising her family, she and Don attended the Hill City Christian Church. Later, she re-established her affiliation with the Methodist Church, attending services and finding solace in her faith during her husband's long illness.

Outside of her professional life, Mary had a variety of hobbies and interests. She actively participated in local elections and served as a Graham Township Trustee and a Hill City Township Treasurer at one time. Following in her father's footsteps, she valued politics as an important aspect of daily life. Mary also enjoyed family activities, baking, cooking, sewing, and raising chickens while selling eggs to people in town. As a farmer's wife, she embraced the hard work that came with harvest time each year.

She was preceded in death by her father, Charles Maupin; her mother, Essie Maupin; brothers and sisters-in-law: Elwin and Birdie Maupin and Dale and Ann Maupin; sisters and brothers-in-law: Imogene and Leo Garrison, Coralie and Otto Keith, Redonda and Don Patton; and brothers-in-law, Norman Brandyberry, and Archie Edgell. She was also preceded in death by her high school sweetheart and husband, Donald "Don" Worcester; brother and sister-in-law, Eugene and Helen Worcester; sister-in-law, Lola Worcester; and brother-in law, Barton “Bart” Morse.

Mary is survived by her five loving children: Sherri Worcester (Dale Gillman) of WaKeeney, Terry (Sandy) Worcester of Flagstaff, Arizona, Larry (Jody) Worcester of rural Hill City, Karri (Jim) Sisk of Norton, and Perry “PJ” Worcester of Santa Fe, New Mexico; two sisters, Phyllis Brandyberry and Charlene Edgell, both of Dawson Place, Hill City; brother-in-law, Charles Worcester, of Cheney, Kansas; and sister-in-law, Katherine Morse, of New Braunfels, Texas; nine grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Mary Worcester will forever be remembered for her sweet nature, generosity, and love for her family and community. Her legacy will continue to inspire and touch the lives of those she leaves behind.

At this time, no memorial service will be held. However, a remembrance and visitation with family members is planned for the spring of 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any charitable donations be made payable to Dawson Place Nursing Home at 208 W. Prout Street, Hill City, Kansas 67642 and can be sent in care of Stinemetz Funeral Home 522 N. Pomeroy, Hill City, Kansas 67642

Mary Worcester, also known as Marilyn “Mary” June Maxine (Maupin) Worcester, passed away peacefully December 30, 2023, at the age of 87 in Hill City, Kansas. She was born June 23, 1936, on the farm north of Antelope Lake, near Morland, Kansas, to Charles Courtney and Essie Lydia (White) Maupin. Mary was a beloved member of her community and will be deeply missed by her friends, family, and all who knew her.Mary was described as the epitome of sweetness. She had a kind heart and a generous spirit, which endeared her to everyone she met. She made it very easy for everyone to love her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her.Mary's educational journey began at a country school north of Antelope Lake near Morland, Kansas. She then attended public schools in Morland, Kansas with two years at Morland High School and then two years at Hill City High School, in Hill City, Kansas, while providing nanny services to the Chipman family. She graduated from Hill City High School in May 1954. After graduating from Hill City High School, Mary was married to Don Worcester September 5, 1954. Mary also pursued outreach classes in bookkeeping through Colby Community College.Throughout her life, Mary dedicated herself to raising her children and later found employment at Shields IGA in town. She then spent 27 years working as a bookkeeper and clerk for The Farmers Lumber Company of Hill City, Kansas. Mary and Don also owned the Pomeroy Inn for many years in Hill City, which she considered her pride and joy. At the Inn, she baked extraordinary homemade cinnamon rolls for the guests and the local community before heading to work at the lumber yard. Mary saw the inn not only as a business, but also as a mission to help people. She often provided accommodation for needy families and individuals, who had been referred to her by the Hill City Ministerial Alliance, without any cost.Mary's faith played an important role in her life. While raising her family, she and Don attended the Hill City Christian Church. Later, she re-established her affiliation with the Methodist Church, attending services and finding solace in her faith during her husband's long illness.Outside of her professional life, Mary had a variety of hobbies and interests. She actively participated in local elections and served as a Graham Township Trustee and a Hill City Township Treasurer at one time. Following in her father's footsteps, she valued politics as an important aspect of daily life. Mary also enjoyed family activities, baking, cooking, sewing, and raising chickens while selling eggs to people in town. As a farmer's wife, she embraced the hard work that came with harvest time each year.She was preceded in death by her father, Charles Maupin; her mother, Essie Maupin; brothers and sisters-in-law: Elwin and Birdie Maupin and Dale and Ann Maupin; sisters and brothers-in-law: Imogene and Leo Garrison, Coralie and Otto Keith, Redonda and Don Patton; and brothers-in-law, Norman Brandyberry, and Archie Edgell. She was also preceded in death by her high school sweetheart and husband, Donald "Don" Worcester; brother and sister-in-law, Eugene and Helen Worcester; sister-in-law, Lola Worcester; and brother-in law, Barton “Bart” Morse.Mary is survived by her five loving children: Sherri Worcester (Dale Gillman) of WaKeeney, Terry (Sandy) Worcester of Flagstaff, Arizona, Larry (Jody) Worcester of rural Hill City, Karri (Jim) Sisk of Norton, and Perry “PJ” Worcester of Santa Fe, New Mexico; two sisters, Phyllis Brandyberry and Charlene Edgell, both of Dawson Place, Hill City; brother-in-law, Charles Worcester, of Cheney, Kansas; and sister-in-law, Katherine Morse, of New Braunfels, Texas; nine grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Mary Worcester will forever be remembered for her sweet nature, generosity, and love for her family and community. Her legacy will continue to inspire and touch the lives of those she leaves behind.At this time, no memorial service will be held. However, a remembrance and visitation with family members is planned for the spring of 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any charitable donations be made payable to Dawson Place Nursing Home at 208 W. Prout Street, Hill City, Kansas 67642 and can be sent in care of Stinemetz Funeral Home 522 N. Pomeroy, Hill City, Kansas 67642

Marilyn “Mary” June Maxine (Maupin) Worcester

Melva M. (Herman) Smith was born June 19, 1929 in Hill City, Kansas and passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on December 16, 2023 at the Santana, Kansas Long Term Care Facility. She had been a resident of the Satanta facility the past six years. Melva always joked that she had outlived most all of her friends, and they were all now located “north” of town.

Melva graduated from Hill City High School in 1946 and married Ivan Smith that very same day. After Ivan returned from WWII, they began their life together in Cut Bank, Montana where he started a long career in the oil pipeline business. They soon returned to their roots in Hill City where their two children, Jerry and Kimberly, were born and raised, both graduating from Hill City High.

Ivan’s career with Mobil took them to stints in Valley Center and Topeka, and finally, three years in Saudi Arabia. After retirement in the mid’80’s, they settled back in their hometown of Hill City while spending time traveling the country in their beloved Holiday Rambler Motorhome. They also took many trips abroad with the Holiday Rambler Owner’s Club. They loved spending their winters in an RV retirement community in South Texas in Donna.

Melva was preceded in death by her parents George and Marvel Anderson; husband Ivan; and daughter Kimberly. Survivors remaining to cherish her memory include her son Jerry and his wife Joy of Woodland Park, Colorado and their children Reilly Smitherman and husband Seth (Reno, Nevada), Kylee Smith (Washington, D.C.), Kody Smith (Bozeman, Montana) and granddaughters Allison Schaaf and husband Brook (Dripping Springs, Texas), Kayla Beck and husband Evin (Franklin, Tennessee) and Whitney Merritt and husband Travis (Naples, Florida). In addition, she leaves ten great-grandchildren, Reagan and Teddy Smitherman; Ivan, Seven and Tovin Schaaf; Maddox, Emmy and Elsa Beck and Taras and Anjali Merritt.

Melva’s remains were cremated and placed at the Hill City Cemetery next to her husband Ivan.

Melva M. (Herman) Smith was born June 19, 1929 in Hill City, Kansas and passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on December 16, 2023 at the Santana, Kansas Long Term Care Facility. She had been a resident of the Satanta facility the past six years. Melva always joked that she had outlived most all of her friends, and they were all now located “north” of town.Melva graduated from Hill City High School in 1946 and married Ivan Smith that very same day. After Ivan returned from WWII, they began their life together in Cut Bank, Montana where he started a long career in the oil pipeline business. They soon returned to their roots in Hill City where their two children, Jerry and Kimberly, were born and raised, both graduating from Hill City High.Ivan’s career with Mobil took them to stints in Valley Center and Topeka, and finally, three years in Saudi Arabia. After retirement in the mid’80’s, they settled back in their hometown of Hill City while spending time traveling the country in their beloved Holiday Rambler Motorhome. They also took many trips abroad with the Holiday Rambler Owner’s Club. They loved spending their winters in an RV retirement community in South Texas in Donna.Melva was preceded in death by her parents George and Marvel Anderson; husband Ivan; and daughter Kimberly. Survivors remaining to cherish her memory include her son Jerry and his wife Joy of Woodland Park, Colorado and their children Reilly Smitherman and husband Seth (Reno, Nevada), Kylee Smith (Washington, D.C.), Kody Smith (Bozeman, Montana) and granddaughters Allison Schaaf and husband Brook (Dripping Springs, Texas), Kayla Beck and husband Evin (Franklin, Tennessee) and Whitney Merritt and husband Travis (Naples, Florida). In addition, she leaves ten great-grandchildren, Reagan and Teddy Smitherman; Ivan, Seven and Tovin Schaaf; Maddox, Emmy and Elsa Beck and Taras and Anjali Merritt.Melva’s remains were cremated and placed at the Hill City Cemetery next to her husband Ivan.

Melva M. (Herman) Smith

Candace Rae (Candy) Austin was born on August 3, 1947, the daughter of Claude Jr and Gladys (Lindsay) Austin. &nbsp;Candy passed away on January 1, 2024, after a three year battle of cancer.

Candy attended school in WaKeeney and was a graduate of Trego Community High School &nbsp;After graduation Candy married R.D. Rothe. &nbsp;To this marriage was born a son, Travis. &nbsp;Candy and R.D. later divorced but remained friends.

Candy retired in 2016 after 34 years of working at the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital, in several departments, finally in the laundry department.

Survivors include her son, Travis Rothe, Ness City; brother, Rod Austin, WaKeeney; aunt, Ann (Lindsay) Newcomer, WaKeeney; Uncles, Richard Austin, Medicine Lodge and Ron Austin, Idaho; many cousins and many cherished friends.

Candy was preceded in death by her parents and life-long friend, R.D.

Services will be held on January 12, 2024, 1:30 p.m. &nbsp;at Schmitt Funeral Home in WaKeeney

Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society.

Candace Rae (Candy) Austin was born on August 3, 1947, the daughter of Claude Jr and Gladys (Lindsay) Austin. &nbsp;Candy passed away on January 1, 2024, after a three year battle of cancer.Candy attended school in WaKeeney and was a graduate of Trego Community High School &nbsp;After graduation Candy married R.D. Rothe. &nbsp;To this marriage was born a son, Travis. &nbsp;Candy and R.D. later divorced but remained friends.Candy retired in 2016 after 34 years of working at the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital, in several departments, finally in the laundry department.Survivors include her son, Travis Rothe, Ness City; brother, Rod Austin, WaKeeney; aunt, Ann (Lindsay) Newcomer, WaKeeney; Uncles, Richard Austin, Medicine Lodge and Ron Austin, Idaho; many cousins and many cherished friends.Candy was preceded in death by her parents and life-long friend, R.D.Services will be held on January 12, 2024, 1:30 p.m. &nbsp;at Schmitt Funeral Home in WaKeeneyMemorials are suggested to the Humane Society.

Candace Rae (Candy) Austin

Mark, our second child, was born in Bellefontaine, Ohio during my pastoral service to the Belle Center, RPCNA congregation. He spent his first four years often playing quietly in my study in the sunshine of the morning hours. A vivid memory haunts me of our family physician showing us Mark’s umbilical cord tied into a knot by his restlessness in the womb. I’ve often revisited that memory, thinking that this was almost prophetic of his nearly 43 years of life. As an infant when he struggled to calm his soul our kitten would hop into the crib, snuggling with the baby and wonderfully settle him down in quiet rest.

During our move in December of 1984 to what would be a 13-year pastoral ministry in Minneola, Kansas, at his persistent request, Mark and I sang Christmas carols over and over in the U-Haul truck! These early years were spent under Mom’s homeschooling instruction. His artistic interests were awakened as he made poster-boards for our family’s Psalm-singing memory efforts. As a boy Mark loved to sing Psalms in Church worship. He could sing heartily, loudly and joyfully!

He also did well in 4-H, little league baseball, and especially enjoyed model rocketry with Dad who was project leader for several boys. Please browse our memory-table display in the Quonset area and sign and comment, if you wish, in our memory book. Mark was a gifted son and, even as a young boy, was possessed of an entrepreneurial spirit. His first, major business venture was mowing yards in Minneola. Elder Reed Hindmansold him a used riding mower and kindly trained him in mower maintenance. Mark paid him with borrowed money from Grandpa Edwards, which he repaid dutifully. He later had a web design business called Frontier Webs. Beginning in November, 2002, he cranked out website templates for Pixel Mill, a web template company, receiving regular royalty payments for almost four years. Check out the invoice he prepared for Rev. Dennis Prutow’s The Sterling Pulpit &amp;Westminster Evangelistic Ministries. This week I found invoices and other mementos of such business efforts, which usually suffered from failure to follow through for the long haul. He was an extraordinarily apt sketch artist. I’ve placed some of them on the memory table. At age 14 he won correspondence art lessons by entering a drawing contest, but never finished the course due to his aversion to structured instruction. And he was a gifted pianist, which he sadly abandoned after his first and only recital.

Mark enjoyed hunting and exploring with his best friend, Samuel McKissick, a fellow church member, who lived on a farm south of Minneola. Sam’s father, Dr. McKissick, kindly and generously provided a 4-H calf for Mark, which was a highlight of those halcyon days. They could spend hours in their rural wonderland, even camping out overnight in the pasture on the lookout for coyotes. Mark excitedly reported that one night a coyote charged them and jumped right over them in their defensive dugout. On another, more infamous, occasion those two friends found and feasted on wild onions! This, of course, was to their sisters’ chagrin! These girls were distressed by the happy boys’ pungent odors for the remainder of the day, especially in the closed quarters of our automobile.

Mark was an intelligent, gifted, sensitive soul with a life-long affliction of social anxieties and increasing, tormenting, physical and mental health problems. Mark was a kinesthetic learner. The traditional academic path was not for him. He was self-taught and even learned computer programing languages. Alas, he was never able to launch a successful business career. He dropped out of High School after one semester due to being sentenced to the Juvenile Detention Center in Garden City, Kansas. During this month-long incarceration he not only honed his criminal skill-set by acquaintance with fellow inmates, he earned his GED. During his adult years he was increasingly plagued by “voices” in his head which seemed never to give him respite for long.

It behoves me to emphasize that he was just ONE of our five, gratefully-cherished , covenant children. Five, distinguished pastors who invested in our lives in various ways baptized each of them. Rev. Stan Copeland baptized Mark as an infant in Ohio, but he never made a profession of faith in the RP Church. Later, during a six-month, court-ordered stay in San Diego, California in “New-Hope House,” Mark became actively involved in a Baptist Church, made a public profession of his faith in Christ and was baptized as a believer. Mind you, it is not sacramental or ritual baptism, but Christ alone by Spiritual Baptism who sovereignly saves as He wills. Living union with Christ is our only hope of peace with God andeverlasting life.

After he returned home to be with us again, he discovered that we had accepted a pastoral call to Clay Center, Kansas where we labored for 18 years. The initial years there were filled with great expectations. Sadly, however, it wasn’t long before Mark was back into trouble. In the summer and fall of 2016 we initiated and completed our move to Colorado Springs. Gay and I have been blessed by our fellow Church members and many other friends who have supported us, wept with us, and prayed with and for us faithfully. Our District 20 Transportation family has richly blessed us with a fulfilling work environment and, of course, much laughter and joy as well! “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine!” WE THANK YOU ALL for your love and friendship in Christ. We praise God! “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” (James 1:17, KJV)

Mark was preceded in death by grandparents who loved him unconditionally as they did all their grandchildren. His Uncle Joey also recently passed away. My brother, Joey, knew well the anguish of mental illness in his own life.

I often reminded myself and others when Mark was center stage, unfairly stealing the spotlight, “We have FOUR other, precious and beloved children in whom we delight with pleasure beyond words; WORDS, which can never adequately express our immense pride and joy in THEM!“ At this moment we continue to thank our blessed, triune God for His “good and perfect” living gifts of four beloved sons and four beloved daughters: Jes &amp; Laurisa, Jeremiah &amp;Emily, Daniel &amp; Anna and Samuel &amp; Madi. I pray daily for each of you by name and for our ten, delightful grandchildren: Justis, Lily, Knox &amp; Kellen; Adelyn, Charlotte, sweet Lucia &amp; Ezekiel; Benjamin &amp; Ceilidh. As our tribe increases and as long as I am of sound mind, I pledge to pray for you, to love you and everyone who walks along side us during this pilgrim journey heavenward; sharing the mundane and the breathtaking, mountain top experiences as well as the deep darkness of the valleys of death. For each one of you and for all the saints and for every dear friend, near and far, in the Apostle Paul’s words, “I want you to know how great a contest [in prayer] I have for you.” (Colossians 2:1, ESV). MORE IMPORTANTLY, PLEASE KNOW that “...we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:15 &amp; 16, KJV)

GAY AND I THANK YOU FROM THE DEPTHS OF OUR HEARTS FOR BEING HERE WITH US TODAY, WHETHER IN BODY OR IN SPIRIT! Earlier this week our daughter, Emily, shared these words of encouragement from Samuel Rutherford, a seventeenth-century Scottish pastor and theologian:

What God layeth on, let us suffer, for some have one cross, some seven, some ten, some half across - yet all the saints have whole and full joy, and seven crosses have seven joys. Glorify the Lord in your sufferings, and take his banner of love, and spread it over you. Others will follow you, if they see you strong in the Lord; their courage shall take life from your Christian carriage. The weightiest end of the cross of Christ that is laid upon you, lieth upon your strong Savior.

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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mark Elliot Graham A Beloved SonJanuary 3, 1981 - December 23, 2023Mark, our second child, was born in Bellefontaine, Ohio during my pastoral service to the Belle Center, RPCNA congregation. He spent his first four years often playing quietly in my study in the sunshine of the morning hours. A vivid memory haunts me of our family physician showing us Mark’s umbilical cord tied into a knot by his restlessness in the womb. I’ve often revisited that memory, thinking that this was almost prophetic of his nearly 43 years of life. As an infant when he struggled to calm his soul our kitten would hop into the crib, snuggling with the baby and wonderfully settle him down in quiet rest.During our move in December of 1984 to what would be a 13-year pastoral ministry in Minneola, Kansas, at his persistent request, Mark and I sang Christmas carols over and over in the U-Haul truck! These early years were spent under Mom’s homeschooling instruction. His artistic interests were awakened as he made poster-boards for our family’s Psalm-singing memory efforts. As a boy Mark loved to sing Psalms in Church worship. He could sing heartily, loudly and joyfully!He also did well in 4-H, little league baseball, and especially enjoyed model rocketry with Dad who was project leader for several boys. Please browse our memory-table display in the Quonset area and sign and comment, if you wish, in our memory book. Mark was a gifted son and, even as a young boy, was possessed of an entrepreneurial spirit. His first, major business venture was mowing yards in Minneola. Elder Reed Hindmansold him a used riding mower and kindly trained him in mower maintenance. Mark paid him with borrowed money from Grandpa Edwards, which he repaid dutifully. He later had a web design business called Frontier Webs. Beginning in November, 2002, he cranked out website templates for Pixel Mill, a web template company, receiving regular royalty payments for almost four years. Check out the invoice he prepared for Rev. Dennis Prutow’s The Sterling Pulpit &amp;Westminster Evangelistic Ministries. This week I found invoices and other mementos of such business efforts, which usually suffered from failure to follow through for the long haul. He was an extraordinarily apt sketch artist. I’ve placed some of them on the memory table. At age 14 he won correspondence art lessons by entering a drawing contest, but never finished the course due to his aversion to structured instruction. And he was a gifted pianist, which he sadly abandoned after his first and only recital.Mark enjoyed hunting and exploring with his best friend, Samuel McKissick, a fellow church member, who lived on a farm south of Minneola. Sam’s father, Dr. McKissick, kindly and generously provided a 4-H calf for Mark, which was a highlight of those halcyon days. They could spend hours in their rural wonderland, even camping out overnight in the pasture on the lookout for coyotes. Mark excitedly reported that one night a coyote charged them and jumped right over them in their defensive dugout. On another, more infamous, occasion those two friends found and feasted on wild onions! This, of course, was to their sisters’ chagrin! These girls were distressed by the happy boys’ pungent odors for the remainder of the day, especially in the closed quarters of our automobile.Mark was an intelligent, gifted, sensitive soul with a life-long affliction of social anxieties and increasing, tormenting, physical and mental health problems. Mark was a kinesthetic learner. The traditional academic path was not for him. He was self-taught and even learned computer programing languages. Alas, he was never able to launch a successful business career. He dropped out of High School after one semester due to being sentenced to the Juvenile Detention Center in Garden City, Kansas. During this month-long incarceration he not only honed his criminal skill-set by acquaintance with fellow inmates, he earned his GED. During his adult years he was increasingly plagued by “voices” in his head which seemed never to give him respite for long.It behoves me to emphasize that he was just ONE of our five, gratefully-cherished , covenant children. Five, distinguished pastors who invested in our lives in various ways baptized each of them. Rev. Stan Copeland baptized Mark as an infant in Ohio, but he never made a profession of faith in the RP Church. Later, during a six-month, court-ordered stay in San Diego, California in “New-Hope House,” Mark became actively involved in a Baptist Church, made a public profession of his faith in Christ and was baptized as a believer. Mind you, it is not sacramental or ritual baptism, but Christ alone by Spiritual Baptism who sovereignly saves as He wills. Living union with Christ is our only hope of peace with God andeverlasting life.After he returned home to be with us again, he discovered that we had accepted a pastoral call to Clay Center, Kansas where we labored for 18 years. The initial years there were filled with great expectations. Sadly, however, it wasn’t long before Mark was back into trouble. In the summer and fall of 2016 we initiated and completed our move to Colorado Springs. Gay and I have been blessed by our fellow Church members and many other friends who have supported us, wept with us, and prayed with and for us faithfully. Our District 20 Transportation family has richly blessed us with a fulfilling work environment and, of course, much laughter and joy as well! “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine!” WE THANK YOU ALL for your love and friendship in Christ. We praise God! “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” (James 1:17, KJV)Mark was preceded in death by grandparents who loved him unconditionally as they did all their grandchildren. His Uncle Joey also recently passed away. My brother, Joey, knew well the anguish of mental illness in his own life.I often reminded myself and others when Mark was center stage, unfairly stealing the spotlight, “We have FOUR other, precious and beloved children in whom we delight with pleasure beyond words; WORDS, which can never adequately express our immense pride and joy in THEM!“ At this moment we continue to thank our blessed, triune God for His “good and perfect” living gifts of four beloved sons and four beloved daughters: Jes &amp; Laurisa, Jeremiah &amp;Emily, Daniel &amp; Anna and Samuel &amp; Madi. I pray daily for each of you by name and for our ten, delightful grandchildren: Justis, Lily, Knox &amp; Kellen; Adelyn, Charlotte, sweet Lucia &amp; Ezekiel; Benjamin &amp; Ceilidh. As our tribe increases and as long as I am of sound mind, I pledge to pray for you, to love you and everyone who walks along side us during this pilgrim journey heavenward; sharing the mundane and the breathtaking, mountain top experiences as well as the deep darkness of the valleys of death. For each one of you and for all the saints and for every dear friend, near and far, in the Apostle Paul’s words, “I want you to know how great a contest [in prayer] I have for you.” (Colossians 2:1, ESV). MORE IMPORTANTLY, PLEASE KNOW that “...we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:15 &amp; 16, KJV)GAY AND I THANK YOU FROM THE DEPTHS OF OUR HEARTS FOR BEING HERE WITH US TODAY, WHETHER IN BODY OR IN SPIRIT! Earlier this week our daughter, Emily, shared these words of encouragement from Samuel Rutherford, a seventeenth-century Scottish pastor and theologian:What God layeth on, let us suffer, for some have one cross, some seven, some ten, some half across - yet all the saints have whole and full joy, and seven crosses have seven joys. Glorify the Lord in your sufferings, and take his banner of love, and spread it over you. Others will follow you, if they see you strong in the Lord; their courage shall take life from your Christian carriage. The weightiest end of the cross of Christ that is laid upon you, lieth upon your strong Savior.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL

Mark Elliot Graham

Victoria resident, Jacqueline Babcock, passed away peacefully at home, on January 1, 2024 at the age of 76.

Jacqueline was born on July 30, 1947, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, to her parents Warren and Ida (Bickett) Rogers.

She married Dennis Babcock in 1967 and was later divorced.

Jacqueline is preceded in death by her parents Warren and Ida Rogers, sister Ardith Horn, and brother Larry Rogers, as well as an infant brother Terrance Rogers.

Survivors include son Darin Babcock and wife Jessica of Littlefield, Texas, daughter Dedra Karlin and partner Mike Lindsay of Victoria, Kansas, brother Mike Rogers of Salina, Kansas, and sister Diane Portenier of McPherson, Kansas, as well as 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

A celebration of life service, officiated by Pastor Jay Brandon, will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, with a visitation to follow until Noon.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Jacqueline Babcock Memorial Fund.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704309302206.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Victoria resident, Jacqueline Babcock, passed away peacefully at home, on January 1, 2024 at the age of 76.Jacqueline was born on July 30, 1947, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, to her parents Warren and Ida (Bickett) Rogers.She married Dennis Babcock in 1967 and was later divorced.Jacqueline is preceded in death by her parents Warren and Ida Rogers, sister Ardith Horn, and brother Larry Rogers, as well as an infant brother Terrance Rogers.Survivors include son Darin Babcock and wife Jessica of Littlefield, Texas, daughter Dedra Karlin and partner Mike Lindsay of Victoria, Kansas, brother Mike Rogers of Salina, Kansas, and sister Diane Portenier of McPherson, Kansas, as well as 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.Cremation was planned.A celebration of life service, officiated by Pastor Jay Brandon, will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, with a visitation to follow until Noon.Memorial contributions may be made to the Jacqueline Babcock Memorial Fund.

Jacqueline Andrea Babcock

Beverly Marlene “Bev” Christiansen, 80, passed away December 13, 2023, with her devoted husband David of 39 years by her side, at Brookdale Senior Living, Great Bend. &nbsp;She was born February 15, 1943, at Scott City, Kan., to Merlin and Margaret (Evans) Keyse. &nbsp;Bev married Kenneth Romey on Sept. 16, 1973, in Ellis, Kan. &nbsp;Kenneth died Jan. 17, 1978. &nbsp;She later married David E. “Christy” Christiansen on May 18, 1984, at St. Mark Lutheran Church, Great Bend, where they've been lifelong members.

Bev, a long time Great Bend resident coming from Hays and a graduate of Scott City High School, was part owner of Action Video Store until she retired. &nbsp;Bev's hobbies included crocheting and knitting. &nbsp;She was well known for crocheting "scrubbies" even teaching a “how-to” class at the Great Bend Rec Center. &nbsp;Her scrubbies were often purchased for gifts and shipped all over the United States. &nbsp;Beverly also knitted hundreds of dish cloths, lid covers for crock pots and many baby blankets. &nbsp;She also crafted red and white beaded Santa Claus necklaces which were gifted to dozens of young children the month of December.&nbsp;

Bev is survived by her husband, David “Christy” of the home; one daughter, Linda Susan (Keyse) Estep Payne; two granddaughters, Andrea (Estep) Stockton and husband Zach, and Alyson Estep and fiancé Chase Junke, all of Wichita; grandson, Nicholas Estep of Wichita; one brother, David Keyse and wife Carol of Great Bend; two sisters Norene Buehler of Scott City, and Terri Brau and husband Don of Scott City; and numerous nieces and nephews.&nbsp;

Other survivors include her stepchildren; David L. Christiansen and wife Cindy of McPherson, and Jennifer (Christiansen) McClain and husband LD of Ben Wheeler, Texas; step grandchildren and step great grandchildren, Kami (Christiansen) Jessop and husband Greg, Harper and Emery, of Papillion, Nebr.; Chad Christiansen and wife Stephanie, Cade and Evan, of River Falls, Wis.; Bret Christiansen and wife Jackie, Gentri, Hattie and Bodie of McPherson; Laura (Simcik) Gilchrist and husband Paxton, Aiden Ragsdale and Marshall of Ben Wheeler; and Jerry Simcik and wife Laura, Jamie and Jenna of Ft Collins, Colo. &nbsp;

Bev was preceded in passing by one daughter; Racine Rens; first husband Kenneth Romey; and brother, Thomas Keyse.

The family wishes to extend a special note of gratitude to all of the Brookdale staff, Gentiva Hospice staff and Pam Finley, friend and caretaker, who provided loving care for Bev and her family during her time of need.&nbsp;

Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 12, 2024, at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Great Bend, with Rev. Adam Wutka presiding. &nbsp;Inurnment will be in Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend. Memorials may be given to St. Mark Lutheran Church or Kansas Honor Flight, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704309241060.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Beverly Marlene “Bev” Christiansen, 80, passed away December 13, 2023, with her devoted husband David of 39 years by her side, at Brookdale Senior Living, Great Bend. &nbsp;She was born February 15, 1943, at Scott City, Kan., to Merlin and Margaret (Evans) Keyse. &nbsp;Bev married Kenneth Romey on Sept. 16, 1973, in Ellis, Kan. &nbsp;Kenneth died Jan. 17, 1978. &nbsp;She later married David E. “Christy” Christiansen on May 18, 1984, at St. Mark Lutheran Church, Great Bend, where they've been lifelong members.Bev, a long time Great Bend resident coming from Hays and a graduate of Scott City High School, was part owner of Action Video Store until she retired. &nbsp;Bev's hobbies included crocheting and knitting. &nbsp;She was well known for crocheting "scrubbies" even teaching a “how-to” class at the Great Bend Rec Center. &nbsp;Her scrubbies were often purchased for gifts and shipped all over the United States. &nbsp;Beverly also knitted hundreds of dish cloths, lid covers for crock pots and many baby blankets. &nbsp;She also crafted red and white beaded Santa Claus necklaces which were gifted to dozens of young children the month of December.&nbsp;Bev is survived by her husband, David “Christy” of the home; one daughter, Linda Susan (Keyse) Estep Payne; two granddaughters, Andrea (Estep) Stockton and husband Zach, and Alyson Estep and fiancé Chase Junke, all of Wichita; grandson, Nicholas Estep of Wichita; one brother, David Keyse and wife Carol of Great Bend; two sisters Norene Buehler of Scott City, and Terri Brau and husband Don of Scott City; and numerous nieces and nephews.&nbsp;Other survivors include her stepchildren; David L. Christiansen and wife Cindy of McPherson, and Jennifer (Christiansen) McClain and husband LD of Ben Wheeler, Texas; step grandchildren and step great grandchildren, Kami (Christiansen) Jessop and husband Greg, Harper and Emery, of Papillion, Nebr.; Chad Christiansen and wife Stephanie, Cade and Evan, of River Falls, Wis.; Bret Christiansen and wife Jackie, Gentri, Hattie and Bodie of McPherson; Laura (Simcik) Gilchrist and husband Paxton, Aiden Ragsdale and Marshall of Ben Wheeler; and Jerry Simcik and wife Laura, Jamie and Jenna of Ft Collins, Colo. &nbsp;Bev was preceded in passing by one daughter; Racine Rens; first husband Kenneth Romey; and brother, Thomas Keyse.The family wishes to extend a special note of gratitude to all of the Brookdale staff, Gentiva Hospice staff and Pam Finley, friend and caretaker, who provided loving care for Bev and her family during her time of need.&nbsp;Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 12, 2024, at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Great Bend, with Rev. Adam Wutka presiding. &nbsp;Inurnment will be in Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend. Memorials may be given to St. Mark Lutheran Church or Kansas Honor Flight, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Beverly Marlene "Bev" Christiansen

Shirley Louise Janssen, 87, passed away December 29, 2023, at her home in Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;She was born January 8, 1936, in Glendale, Kan., to Merrill and Ruth (Brown) Smither. &nbsp;Shirley married Larry Lee Larson June 11, 1961, in Salina, Kan. &nbsp;Larry passed away June 14, 1978. &nbsp;She then married William Lorin “Bill” Janssen Nov. 1, 1986, in Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;Bill died March 7, 2015.

Shirley, a resident of Great Bend since 1977, was a loving wife, mom, grandma and great grandma. &nbsp;She enjoyed bowling, baking, Christmas season shared with loved ones, and the companionship of her black lab puppy, Wesson. &nbsp;Above all, Shirley's life passion was showing love and endless support to her family and friends, which was often demonstrated through the commitment of many hours of lessons and fellowship at the local bowling alley. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Survivors include her children, Kimberly Klucas and husband Jim of Salina, Kan., Edward Larson and wife Janice of Bel Aire, Kan., Douglas Larson of Great Bend, and Kenneth Larson and wife Heidi, of Wichita, Kan.; daughter-in-law, Renee Larson of Great Bend; brother, Donald Smither and wife Iliene; grandchildren, Chad Shriver, Elisha Morris, Kristian Larson, Tyler Larson, Danielle Delgadillo, Heather Snapp, Brandon Blackburn, and 14 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by husbands, Larry Larson and Bill Janssen; one brother, Merrill Smither, Jr.; and sister, Sandra Dyer.

Memorial services have been scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 5, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Chaplain Guy Hannah presiding. &nbsp;A private family inurnment will be at Franklin Cemetery, Tescott, Kan., at a later date. &nbsp;The family has requested that funeral guests wear bowling or Christmas attire in memory of Shirley. &nbsp;Memorials may be given to the Shirley Janssen Memorial Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704309184650.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Shirley Louise Janssen, 87, passed away December 29, 2023, at her home in Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;She was born January 8, 1936, in Glendale, Kan., to Merrill and Ruth (Brown) Smither. &nbsp;Shirley married Larry Lee Larson June 11, 1961, in Salina, Kan. &nbsp;Larry passed away June 14, 1978. &nbsp;She then married William Lorin “Bill” Janssen Nov. 1, 1986, in Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;Bill died March 7, 2015.Shirley, a resident of Great Bend since 1977, was a loving wife, mom, grandma and great grandma. &nbsp;She enjoyed bowling, baking, Christmas season shared with loved ones, and the companionship of her black lab puppy, Wesson. &nbsp;Above all, Shirley's life passion was showing love and endless support to her family and friends, which was often demonstrated through the commitment of many hours of lessons and fellowship at the local bowling alley. &nbsp;&nbsp;Survivors include her children, Kimberly Klucas and husband Jim of Salina, Kan., Edward Larson and wife Janice of Bel Aire, Kan., Douglas Larson of Great Bend, and Kenneth Larson and wife Heidi, of Wichita, Kan.; daughter-in-law, Renee Larson of Great Bend; brother, Donald Smither and wife Iliene; grandchildren, Chad Shriver, Elisha Morris, Kristian Larson, Tyler Larson, Danielle Delgadillo, Heather Snapp, Brandon Blackburn, and 14 great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by husbands, Larry Larson and Bill Janssen; one brother, Merrill Smither, Jr.; and sister, Sandra Dyer.Memorial services have been scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 5, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Chaplain Guy Hannah presiding. &nbsp;A private family inurnment will be at Franklin Cemetery, Tescott, Kan., at a later date. &nbsp;The family has requested that funeral guests wear bowling or Christmas attire in memory of Shirley. &nbsp;Memorials may be given to the Shirley Janssen Memorial Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

 Shirley Louise Janssen

Fabio Chavez, 38, passed away December 29, 2023, in Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on October 24, 1985, in Great Bend, Kansas to Jose Luis and Marina Chavez.&nbsp;

A lifetime Great Bend resident, Fabio worked chain hand in the oilfield as well as working in the roofing industry. He was a member of Prince of Peace Parish. Fabio enjoyed break dancing, graffiti art, low riders, and skateboarding.&nbsp;

Survivors include his four children, Fabio, Jr., Mea, Nova, and Alexia Chavez; his mother, Marina Chavez; three sisters, Anais Chavez, Gisela Chavez, and Lucero Chavez and husband, Carlos; uncle, Bernadino Moreno; and numerous other loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jose Luis Chavez.

Visitation will take place from noon to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 3, 2024, with vigil at 7:00 p.m., at Bryant Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 4, 2024, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, with Father Prakash Kola presiding. Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery North. &nbsp;Memorials are suggested to the Fabio Chavez Funeral Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704309148305.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Fabio Chavez, 38, passed away December 29, 2023, in Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on October 24, 1985, in Great Bend, Kansas to Jose Luis and Marina Chavez.&nbsp;A lifetime Great Bend resident, Fabio worked chain hand in the oilfield as well as working in the roofing industry. He was a member of Prince of Peace Parish. Fabio enjoyed break dancing, graffiti art, low riders, and skateboarding.&nbsp;Survivors include his four children, Fabio, Jr., Mea, Nova, and Alexia Chavez; his mother, Marina Chavez; three sisters, Anais Chavez, Gisela Chavez, and Lucero Chavez and husband, Carlos; uncle, Bernadino Moreno; and numerous other loved ones.He was preceded in death by his father, Jose Luis Chavez.Visitation will take place from noon to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 3, 2024, with vigil at 7:00 p.m., at Bryant Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 4, 2024, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, with Father Prakash Kola presiding. Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery North. &nbsp;Memorials are suggested to the Fabio Chavez Funeral Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. &nbsp;

Fabio Chavez

A full obituary will be posted once it becomes available. &nbsp;No services will be held at this time.

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 </figure><h2>October 11, 1948 — January 1, 2024</h2><h2>Goodland, Kansas</h2>A full obituary will be posted once it becomes available. &nbsp;No services will be held at this time.

Anna Marie Carter

WICHITA – Evelyn Reece, passed away December 25, 2023, Larned, Kansas

Evelyn blessed this Earth for 86 years before returning to her Heavenly home. As the daughter of Kenneth and Glenna Showalter, she grew up knowing how important it was to be a woman of faith, show kindness to others, and to love her family beyond measure. When she was a young woman, Evelyn was a baton twirler. She met the love of her life, Roland Reece, early on and her life forever changed for the better. She loved Roland dearly and ever since their marriage, she preferred to go by Mrs. Roland Reece.

Roland and Evelyn got married in Larned and shortly after they moved to Kentucky while Roland was serving in the United States Army. Roland and Evelyn later moved back to Kansas and established roots in Larned. Together they had 3 wonderful children: Donna, Deana, and Daryl, who were the lights of their lives. In Larned, Evelyn supported Roland while he served as the Larned Chief of Police, EMS Director, and Sheriff of Pawnee County. Back when Roland was Sheriff, the Sheriff’s family was expected to live in the jail on the first floor and help maintain the jail on the second floor. As result, Evelyn cooked and prepared food for all of the inmates.

During Roland’s public service in those roles, Evelyn was hired as an Avon sales representative in Larned. Evelyn quickly rose through the ranks to become Avon District Manager. Roland and Evelyn later moved to Wichita so she could continue working for Avon after her promotion. After her over 27-year career with Avon, Evelyn began babysitting children in her neighborhood. Word traveled fast about Evelyn’s natural ability to connect with kids and raise them with lifelong values, and Evelyn would go on to babysit approximately 30 kids in her lifetime. Many of the kids she babysat became like her second family. Those kids grew up to be adults and invited their bonus, redheaded Grandma to their football games, graduations, and weddings. Unfortunately, Evelyn’s husband Roland returned to his Heavenly home in 1991 after a long-fought battle with cancer.

Above all of her careers over the years, Evelyn was the most proud of her community service and church involvement. Evelyn served as a leader for a Christian grief group called Good Grief, which was designed for widows and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Through the Good Grief organization, Evelyn created a welcoming community of support for fellow widows to connect with others grieving. Members of Evelyn’s group saw her as the encourager they needed to work through their grief, friend they turned to when they need a shoulder to cry on or a heartfelt prayer, or even as the sole person to get them to leave the house when all they wanted to do was self-isolate during their grieving. Evelyn was also heavily involved in her church throughout her lifetime. Evelyn was a member of the Larned Methodist Church and attended West Heights Methodist Church in Wichita.

Survivors include her 3 children: Donna (Don) Stejskal of Burdett, Deana (Ivan) Roberts of Pawnee Rock, and Daryl (Geri) Reece of Olathe; 5 grandchildren: Louis (Nicole) Stejskal of Shawnee, Nic (Barbara) Roberts of Wichita, Michael (Kara) Stejskal of Dallas, Texas, Allison (Andrew) Denning of Olathe, and Ashley Reece of Olathe; 6 great grandchildren: Landon Roberts, Charles Stejskal, Emily Denning, William Stejskal, Lucy Stejskal, and Anna Stejskal; and a brother David (Cheryl) Showalter of Canon City, Colorado.

Evelyn was preceded in death but is rejoined in Heaven with her husband Roland Reece; parents Kenneth and Glenna Showalter; and grandparents Martha Dupree and Dave and Mamie Showalter.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 6, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Berniece Ludlum presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, January 5, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with family present from 5-7 p.m. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery.

The Family suggest memorials be given to Larned Methodist Church or West Heights Methodist Church in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704308990894.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – Evelyn Reece, passed away December 25, 2023, Larned, KansasEvelyn blessed this Earth for 86 years before returning to her Heavenly home. As the daughter of Kenneth and Glenna Showalter, she grew up knowing how important it was to be a woman of faith, show kindness to others, and to love her family beyond measure. When she was a young woman, Evelyn was a baton twirler. She met the love of her life, Roland Reece, early on and her life forever changed for the better. She loved Roland dearly and ever since their marriage, she preferred to go by Mrs. Roland Reece.Roland and Evelyn got married in Larned and shortly after they moved to Kentucky while Roland was serving in the United States Army. Roland and Evelyn later moved back to Kansas and established roots in Larned. Together they had 3 wonderful children: Donna, Deana, and Daryl, who were the lights of their lives. In Larned, Evelyn supported Roland while he served as the Larned Chief of Police, EMS Director, and Sheriff of Pawnee County. Back when Roland was Sheriff, the Sheriff’s family was expected to live in the jail on the first floor and help maintain the jail on the second floor. As result, Evelyn cooked and prepared food for all of the inmates.During Roland’s public service in those roles, Evelyn was hired as an Avon sales representative in Larned. Evelyn quickly rose through the ranks to become Avon District Manager. Roland and Evelyn later moved to Wichita so she could continue working for Avon after her promotion. After her over 27-year career with Avon, Evelyn began babysitting children in her neighborhood. Word traveled fast about Evelyn’s natural ability to connect with kids and raise them with lifelong values, and Evelyn would go on to babysit approximately 30 kids in her lifetime. Many of the kids she babysat became like her second family. Those kids grew up to be adults and invited their bonus, redheaded Grandma to their football games, graduations, and weddings. Unfortunately, Evelyn’s husband Roland returned to his Heavenly home in 1991 after a long-fought battle with cancer.Above all of her careers over the years, Evelyn was the most proud of her community service and church involvement. Evelyn served as a leader for a Christian grief group called Good Grief, which was designed for widows and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Through the Good Grief organization, Evelyn created a welcoming community of support for fellow widows to connect with others grieving. Members of Evelyn’s group saw her as the encourager they needed to work through their grief, friend they turned to when they need a shoulder to cry on or a heartfelt prayer, or even as the sole person to get them to leave the house when all they wanted to do was self-isolate during their grieving. Evelyn was also heavily involved in her church throughout her lifetime. Evelyn was a member of the Larned Methodist Church and attended West Heights Methodist Church in Wichita.Survivors include her 3 children: Donna (Don) Stejskal of Burdett, Deana (Ivan) Roberts of Pawnee Rock, and Daryl (Geri) Reece of Olathe; 5 grandchildren: Louis (Nicole) Stejskal of Shawnee, Nic (Barbara) Roberts of Wichita, Michael (Kara) Stejskal of Dallas, Texas, Allison (Andrew) Denning of Olathe, and Ashley Reece of Olathe; 6 great grandchildren: Landon Roberts, Charles Stejskal, Emily Denning, William Stejskal, Lucy Stejskal, and Anna Stejskal; and a brother David (Cheryl) Showalter of Canon City, Colorado.Evelyn was preceded in death but is rejoined in Heaven with her husband Roland Reece; parents Kenneth and Glenna Showalter; and grandparents Martha Dupree and Dave and Mamie Showalter.Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 6, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Berniece Ludlum presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, January 5, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with family present from 5-7 p.m. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery.The Family suggest memorials be given to Larned Methodist Church or West Heights Methodist Church in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Evelyn Darlene Reece

Larned – Treva Beatrice Smith, 96, passed away December 31, 2023 at Country Living of Larned.

She was born November 4, 1927 in Great Bend, Kansas, the daughter of Gilbert Martin and Lena Margaret Bortz. Lifetime area resident, she was a farmwife and Activity Therapist in greenhouse at the Larned State Hospital.

She was a member of the Larned Methodist Church, UMW and JFR club. She loved spending time with family, attending family reunions, enjoyed gardening, volunteering at the Budget Shop and was a 4-H leader.

On December 20, 1945 she married Clayton C. Smith in Larned; he preceded her in death on April 21, 1998.

Survivors include: son, Dennis (Beth) Smith, Larned; two grandchildren Marc Novak, Athens, Georgia, Jacob Smith, Larned, Kansas; and numerous much-loved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by: her father, Gilbert Martin; mother, Lena Margaret Bortz Johnson; daughter, Lora Novak; son-in-law, Edward Novak; brother, Elton Johnson; and three sisters, Mildred Booker, Dorras Barnes and Darlene Fox.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 5, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with Pastor Linda Doyle presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, January 4, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned. Burial will be in Larned Cemetery, Larned.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704308934477.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Larned – Treva Beatrice Smith, 96, passed away December 31, 2023 at Country Living of Larned.She was born November 4, 1927 in Great Bend, Kansas, the daughter of Gilbert Martin and Lena Margaret Bortz. Lifetime area resident, she was a farmwife and Activity Therapist in greenhouse at the Larned State Hospital.She was a member of the Larned Methodist Church, UMW and JFR club. She loved spending time with family, attending family reunions, enjoyed gardening, volunteering at the Budget Shop and was a 4-H leader.On December 20, 1945 she married Clayton C. Smith in Larned; he preceded her in death on April 21, 1998.Survivors include: son, Dennis (Beth) Smith, Larned; two grandchildren Marc Novak, Athens, Georgia, Jacob Smith, Larned, Kansas; and numerous much-loved nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by: her father, Gilbert Martin; mother, Lena Margaret Bortz Johnson; daughter, Lora Novak; son-in-law, Edward Novak; brother, Elton Johnson; and three sisters, Mildred Booker, Dorras Barnes and Darlene Fox.Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 5, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with Pastor Linda Doyle presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, January 4, 2024 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned. Burial will be in Larned Cemetery, Larned.Memorials may be given to Larned State Hospital Greenhouse in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Treva Beatrice Smith

Sharon Beth Jumper, 86, of Colby, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2023. She was born June 30, 1937, in St. Francis, KS, to Elmer and Merle (Anderson) Hallagin. Sharon graduated from McDonald High School and attended Fort Hays State where she received her teaching degree. She taught in many schools around the Northwest Kansas area and even after retiring she never passed up the opportunity to learn or to keep teaching those around her. Sharon could play almost any musical instrument handed to her and in her words, "was a lifelong learner." She was also a proud member of the VFW Auxiliary.

She loved spending time with her family, students, and friends. Always encouraging and supporting those close to her.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704308260975.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sharon Beth Jumper, 86, of Colby, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2023. She was born June 30, 1937, in St. Francis, KS, to Elmer and Merle (Anderson) Hallagin. Sharon graduated from McDonald High School and attended Fort Hays State where she received her teaching degree. She taught in many schools around the Northwest Kansas area and even after retiring she never passed up the opportunity to learn or to keep teaching those around her. Sharon could play almost any musical instrument handed to her and in her words, "was a lifelong learner." She was also a proud member of the VFW Auxiliary.She loved spending time with her family, students, and friends. Always encouraging and supporting those close to her.Sharon was preceded in death by her parents.She is survived by her son Larry (Christine) Jumper; sisters Sheila (Dennis) Dietz and Ione (Les) Clarke; grandchildren, Kelsey (Melissa) Jumper, Lori Beth (Brian) Wicks and Jennifer Jumper; great grandson Dylan Wicks; and numerous other relatives and friends.A memorial service will take place at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby with inurnment in Fairview Cemetery, Atwood. Memorials may be made to the family and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Obituaries