Keith Bray, age 89, of Florence, Colorado, passed away Saturday, October 28, 2023, at The Bruce McCandless Veterans Community Living Center, Florence, CO. 

  Schmitt Funeral Home, Quinter, is handling arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Keith Bray, Florence, CO</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698879412521.jpeg" alt="Keith Bray" />
 <figcaption>Keith Bray</figcaption>
 </figure>June 22, 1934 - October 28, 2023Keith Bray, age 89, of Florence, Colorado, passed away Saturday, October 28, 2023, at The Bruce McCandless Veterans Community Living Center, Florence, CO. Schmitt Funeral Home, Quinter, is handling arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Keith Bray

Jermy Lynn Jimison, 45, died October 31, 2023, at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home, Little River, Kansas. &nbsp;He was born February 19, 1978, in Great Bend, Kansas, the son of Kyle M. and Deborah Ann (Mooney) Jimison. &nbsp;

Jermy graduated from Quivira Heights High School in 1996.

On June 6, 1998, he married Heather Dunlap in Great Bend, Kansas and they were blessed with a daughter, Taylor in 2000. They then later divorced.&nbsp;

A former resident of Bushton and Claflin areas, Jermy worked various jobs, he had been a farm hand for many farmers, and had worked for Walmart and Wells Furniture. 

Jermy’s favorite thing to do was spending time behind the wheel of his beloved 1985 Chevy Truck. Whether it was mudding with his brother or just country cruising with his daughter. Jermy was always available to help fix anything or share a pizza even if it was around the midnight hour.&nbsp;

He is survived by his daughter, Taylor Jimison and companion Austin Pruitt of Ellsworth; father, Kyle M. Jimison of Bushton; twin brother, Chad Jimison and wife Misty of Clearwater; nephew, Daxton Jimison of Clearwater; and niece, Tymberlin Jimison, of Great Bend; and his many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Deborah Ann “Debbie” Jimison.

Friends may sign the book today and until service at the funeral home. There will be no viewing as cremation has taken place.&nbsp;

Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m., November 10, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Diana Webster presiding. Inurnment will follow in Holy Name Cemetery, rural Bushton, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Jermy Jimison Memorial Fund, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Jermy Lynn Jimison, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/jermy-jimison/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Jermy Lynn Jimison</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698878880026.jpeg" alt="Jermy Lynn Jimison" />
 <figcaption>Jermy Lynn Jimison</figcaption>
 </figure>February 19, 1978 - October 31, 2023Jermy Lynn Jimison, 45, died October 31, 2023, at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home, Little River, Kansas. &nbsp;He was born February 19, 1978, in Great Bend, Kansas, the son of Kyle M. and Deborah Ann (Mooney) Jimison. &nbsp;Jermy graduated from Quivira Heights High School in 1996.On June 6, 1998, he married Heather Dunlap in Great Bend, Kansas and they were blessed with a daughter, Taylor in 2000. They then later divorced.&nbsp;A former resident of Bushton and Claflin areas, Jermy worked various jobs, he had been a farm hand for many farmers, and had worked for Walmart and Wells Furniture. Jermy’s favorite thing to do was spending time behind the wheel of his beloved 1985 Chevy Truck. Whether it was mudding with his brother or just country cruising with his daughter. Jermy was always available to help fix anything or share a pizza even if it was around the midnight hour.&nbsp;He is survived by his daughter, Taylor Jimison and companion Austin Pruitt of Ellsworth; father, Kyle M. Jimison of Bushton; twin brother, Chad Jimison and wife Misty of Clearwater; nephew, Daxton Jimison of Clearwater; and niece, Tymberlin Jimison, of Great Bend; and his many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.He was preceded in death by his mother, Deborah Ann “Debbie” Jimison.Friends may sign the book today and until service at the funeral home. There will be no viewing as cremation has taken place.&nbsp;Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m., November 10, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Diana Webster presiding. Inurnment will follow in Holy Name Cemetery, rural Bushton, Kansas.In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Jermy Jimison Memorial Fund, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Jermy Lynn Jimison, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/jermy-jimison/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Jermy Lynn Jimison

Delorse F. Prater, 89, died on Monday October 30, 2023 at Garden Valley Retirement Village in Garden City. She was born on August 15, 1934 at Ulysses, Kansas, the daughter of William Archer &amp; Esta Mable (Dye) Hatcher. 

She married Frank Wyatt in 1954 at Lakin. She later married Eugene Prater on January 30, 1975 at Garden City. He died on February 25, 2010.

Delorse attended Ulysses schools and the Dodge City Cosmetology School. She then opened at Beauty Shop in Johnson. In 1966 she moved to Garden City and had several jobs including being a Drill Press Operator at Oswalt Manufacturing. She and her husband were owners and operators of the Dee &amp; Gene Tavern referred to as the Old Pub. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, playing cards and dominos. She was very proud of being a Licensed Cosmetologist for over 60 years.

She is survived by her three sons- Donald Wyatt of Norfolk, Nebraska, Norman Wyatt and Marvin Wyatt both of Garden City, two daughters- Donna Allen-Roth of Garden City and Janet Wilson of Scott City, 17 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Husband, son- Gary Wyatt, three brothers- Doyle Hatcher, Dale Hatcher and Larry Joe Hatcher and three sisters- Juda Ann Hatcher, Pearl E. Hatcher and Esta May Hatcher.

Funeral Service will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City with Rev Jim Akins officiating. Graveside service will be at 1:00 PM at Plains Cemetery in Plains. 

Memorials are suggested to Garden Valley Retirement Village Residents Activity Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home. Friends may call from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday at Garnand Funeral Home. 

Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>&nbsp;Delorse F. Prater</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698878549529.jpeg" alt="Delorse F. Prater" />
 <figcaption>Delorse F. Prater</figcaption>
 </figure>August 15, 1934 - October 30, 2023Delorse F. Prater, 89, died on Monday October 30, 2023 at Garden Valley Retirement Village in Garden City. She was born on August 15, 1934 at Ulysses, Kansas, the daughter of William Archer &amp; Esta Mable (Dye) Hatcher. She married Frank Wyatt in 1954 at Lakin. She later married Eugene Prater on January 30, 1975 at Garden City. He died on February 25, 2010.Delorse attended Ulysses schools and the Dodge City Cosmetology School. She then opened at Beauty Shop in Johnson. In 1966 she moved to Garden City and had several jobs including being a Drill Press Operator at Oswalt Manufacturing. She and her husband were owners and operators of the Dee &amp; Gene Tavern referred to as the Old Pub. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, playing cards and dominos. She was very proud of being a Licensed Cosmetologist for over 60 years.She is survived by her three sons- Donald Wyatt of Norfolk, Nebraska, Norman Wyatt and Marvin Wyatt both of Garden City, two daughters- Donna Allen-Roth of Garden City and Janet Wilson of Scott City, 17 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, Husband, son- Gary Wyatt, three brothers- Doyle Hatcher, Dale Hatcher and Larry Joe Hatcher and three sisters- Juda Ann Hatcher, Pearl E. Hatcher and Esta May Hatcher.Funeral Service will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City with Rev Jim Akins officiating. Graveside service will be at 1:00 PM at Plains Cemetery in Plains. Memorials are suggested to Garden Valley Retirement Village Residents Activity Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home. Friends may call from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday at Garnand Funeral Home. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Delorse F. Prater

Mary Lee Molz, age 92, of Deerfield, Kansas died on Monday, October 30, 2023 at the Kearney County Hospital in Lakin, Kansas. She was born July 28, 1931 in Wilson, Kansas. She is the daughter of John Francis and Caroline Kathryn (Knauer) Healey. 

She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Lakin, Kansas.

After the passing of her parents, she completed her high school education in Ames, Iowa. She continued her education in Des Moines, Iowa, where she earned her teaching certificate from Drake University. Upon receiving her certificate from Drake, Mary Lee obtained employment as a teacher in her beloved Kansas. She arrived to teach in Deerfield, Kansas elementary school in 1951. She was highly respected and loved by all the students under her guidance.

Mary Lee taught three years before meeting her life-time companion. In January 1956, she married Otis H. Molz of Deerfield and lived on their farm for 67 years. 

With Otis, they built a very successful farm business eventually taking their farm knowledge to countries far and near. Mary Lee and Otis were very involved in co-op activities and funded many local agricultural scholarships through the co-op. In 2001, both Mary Lee and Otis were inducted into the National Co-op Hall of Fame, Washington, DC.

Mary Lee had a passion for cooking and baking, collecting hundreds of recipes through the years. Mary Lee loved art and often volunteered her time, talent, and artwork to various community organizations.

She is survived by her husband, Otis H Molz, son, Bobby Joe Molz of Garden City, and daughter, Barbara Ann Franklin of Topeka, and two great grandchildren. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, three grandchildren, three brothers and two sisters.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lakin with Reverend Magdiel Fajardo officiating. Grave site service will be held at the Deerfield, Kansas cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Salvation Army or American Red Cross in care of Garnand Funeral Home. 

Friends may call from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday at Gardand Funeral Home in Lakin. 

<h2>Mary Lee Molz, Deerfield</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698845995398.jpeg" alt="Mary Lee Molz" />
 <figcaption>Mary Lee Molz</figcaption>
 </figure>July 28, 1931 - October 30, 2023Mary Lee Molz, age 92, of Deerfield, Kansas died on Monday, October 30, 2023 at the Kearney County Hospital in Lakin, Kansas. She was born July 28, 1931 in Wilson, Kansas. She is the daughter of John Francis and Caroline Kathryn (Knauer) Healey. She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Lakin, Kansas.After the passing of her parents, she completed her high school education in Ames, Iowa. She continued her education in Des Moines, Iowa, where she earned her teaching certificate from Drake University. Upon receiving her certificate from Drake, Mary Lee obtained employment as a teacher in her beloved Kansas. She arrived to teach in Deerfield, Kansas elementary school in 1951. She was highly respected and loved by all the students under her guidance.Mary Lee taught three years before meeting her life-time companion. In January 1956, she married Otis H. Molz of Deerfield and lived on their farm for 67 years. With Otis, they built a very successful farm business eventually taking their farm knowledge to countries far and near. Mary Lee and Otis were very involved in co-op activities and funded many local agricultural scholarships through the co-op. In 2001, both Mary Lee and Otis were inducted into the National Co-op Hall of Fame, Washington, DC.Mary Lee had a passion for cooking and baking, collecting hundreds of recipes through the years. Mary Lee loved art and often volunteered her time, talent, and artwork to various community organizations.She is survived by her husband, Otis H Molz, son, Bobby Joe Molz of Garden City, and daughter, Barbara Ann Franklin of Topeka, and two great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, three grandchildren, three brothers and two sisters.Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lakin with Reverend Magdiel Fajardo officiating. Grave site service will be held at the Deerfield, Kansas cemetery.Memorials are suggested to Salvation Army or American Red Cross in care of Garnand Funeral Home. Friends may call from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday at Gardand Funeral Home in Lakin. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mary Lee Molz

<h2>Romajean Hahn</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698845714915.png" alt="Romajean Hahn" />
 <figcaption>Romajean Hahn</figcaption>
 </figure>December 11, 1930 - October 30, 2023Obituary pending.

Romajean Hahn

Laura Ann (Steinbacher) Schenkel, 83, passed away October 31, 2023, at Bridge Haven Memory Care, Lawrence, Kansas. She was born August 2, 1940, at Great Bend, to Charles and Eulalia (Brehm) Steinbacher. 

She married Ray S. Schenkel August 12, 1959, at Great Bend. He died December 15, 2012.&nbsp;

A lifetime Great Bend resident, Ann started her long time career in banking shortly after graduating from Great Bend High School. &nbsp;Her commitment to the community began at First National Bank, spanning over 30 years, then finally retiring as the senior vice president of Community Bank of the Midwest.

 She was a member of Prince of Peace Parish, Altar Society, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and served on the Cedar Park Place board of directors. She was an avid reader, enjoyed cooking and baking, drawing and painting with water colors and Hallmark Christmas movies. Ann especially loved spending time with her family.&nbsp;

Survivors include two sons, Scott Schenkel and wife Leilani of Great Bend and Todd Schenkel and wife Michelle of Topeka; two brothers, Jerry “Pete” Steinbacher of Great Bend, and Jim Steinbacher (Debra) of New Braunfels, Texas; three sisters, Jolene Romme of Lawrence, Jeanne Hollembeak (Bruce) of Lee’s Summit, MO, and Mary Lou Steinbacher of Denver, CO; one sister-in-law, Anne Steinbacher of Kansas City, MO; four grandchildren, Evan Schenkel, Cory Schenkel (Jessica), Taylor Christopher (Andy), and Tate Schenkel; five great-grandchildren with one expected in May, 2024; and 13 nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ray S. Schenkel; two brothers, Charlie F. Steinbacher and Larry “Bones” Steinbacher; and brother-in-law, Leon Romme.&nbsp;

Visitation will be held from noon to 8:00 p.m., Friday, November 3, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Altar Society rosary at 4:00 p.m., and vigil service at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, November 4, 2023, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church with Father Aneesh Parappanattu presiding. Inurnment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Dominican Sisters of Peace or Golden Belt Humane Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Laura Ann Schenkel, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/laura-schenkel/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>

<h2>Laura Ann Schenkel, Great Bend</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698787843829.png" alt="Laura Ann Schenkel" />
 <figcaption>Laura Ann Schenkel</figcaption>
 </figure>August 2, 1940 - October 31, 2023Laura Ann (Steinbacher) Schenkel, 83, passed away October 31, 2023, at Bridge Haven Memory Care, Lawrence, Kansas. She was born August 2, 1940, at Great Bend, to Charles and Eulalia (Brehm) Steinbacher. She married Ray S. Schenkel August 12, 1959, at Great Bend. He died December 15, 2012.&nbsp;A lifetime Great Bend resident, Ann started her long time career in banking shortly after graduating from Great Bend High School. &nbsp;Her commitment to the community began at First National Bank, spanning over 30 years, then finally retiring as the senior vice president of Community Bank of the Midwest. She was a member of Prince of Peace Parish, Altar Society, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and served on the Cedar Park Place board of directors. She was an avid reader, enjoyed cooking and baking, drawing and painting with water colors and Hallmark Christmas movies. Ann especially loved spending time with her family.&nbsp;Survivors include two sons, Scott Schenkel and wife Leilani of Great Bend and Todd Schenkel and wife Michelle of Topeka; two brothers, Jerry “Pete” Steinbacher of Great Bend, and Jim Steinbacher (Debra) of New Braunfels, Texas; three sisters, Jolene Romme of Lawrence, Jeanne Hollembeak (Bruce) of Lee’s Summit, MO, and Mary Lou Steinbacher of Denver, CO; one sister-in-law, Anne Steinbacher of Kansas City, MO; four grandchildren, Evan Schenkel, Cory Schenkel (Jessica), Taylor Christopher (Andy), and Tate Schenkel; five great-grandchildren with one expected in May, 2024; and 13 nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ray S. Schenkel; two brothers, Charlie F. Steinbacher and Larry “Bones” Steinbacher; and brother-in-law, Leon Romme.&nbsp;Visitation will be held from noon to 8:00 p.m., Friday, November 3, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Altar Society rosary at 4:00 p.m., and vigil service at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, November 4, 2023, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church with Father Aneesh Parappanattu presiding. Inurnment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Dominican Sisters of Peace or Golden Belt Humane Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Laura Ann Schenkel, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/laura-schenkel/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>

Laura Ann Schenkel

Kirk L. Halderman passed away unexpectedly on October 18, 2023, at the Oklahoma University Medical Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 61.

Kirk was born July 30, 1962, the oldest of two children of Lynne and Phyllis (Ross) Halderman. 

Kirk grew up on a farm northwest of Long Island, Kansas. 

He attended Northern Valley Schools and graduated with the class of 1980. He went on to further his education at Fort Hays State University and Wichita Practical Nursing School, graduating in 1986. 

Kirk married Tim Hopkins on June 3, 1995, in Seattle, Washington. 

In 2000 they moved to Oklahoma City. Kirk was area sales manager for Dillard’s Department Store. Later he went to dog training school and was employed at the Warwick Animal Hospital. After an early retirement due to health issues, he took over the job as HOA president where he and Tim have lived for 11 years.

Kirk enjoyed traveling, gardening, antique shopping, and eating out, especially for breakfast and visiting. He had hours of enjoyment with their pet dogs Peanut, Dallas, Josie, and the cat Elvira.

Kirk was preceded in death by his grandparents, Oscar and Elizabeth Ross, and Ernest and Mae Halderman, uncles, aunts, cousins, and other relatives.

Survivors include his husband of 28 years, Tim Halderman, parents Lynne and Phyllis Halderman, sister Kendra Graf and husband James, niece Maloree Graf, and many other relatives and friends. Kirk will be deeply missed.

A graveside service will be held for Kirk on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 2:00 p.m., with Pastor Jason Bonnicksen officiating, at the Long Island Cemetery in Long Island, Kansas.

Following the graveside service, the family will receive friends and relatives at the Long Island Methodist Church for a time of fellowship and refreshments.

Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, November 10, 2023, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Long Island Community Building or The Peace Lutheran Church in Alma, Nebraska.

<h2>Kirk L. Halderman, Oklahoma City, OK</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698783896154.jpeg" alt="Kirk L. Halderman" />
 <figcaption>Kirk L. Halderman</figcaption>
 </figure>July 30, 1962 - October 18, 2023Kirk L. Halderman passed away unexpectedly on October 18, 2023, at the Oklahoma University Medical Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 61.Kirk was born July 30, 1962, the oldest of two children of Lynne and Phyllis (Ross) Halderman. Kirk grew up on a farm northwest of Long Island, Kansas. He attended Northern Valley Schools and graduated with the class of 1980. He went on to further his education at Fort Hays State University and Wichita Practical Nursing School, graduating in 1986. Kirk married Tim Hopkins on June 3, 1995, in Seattle, Washington. In 2000 they moved to Oklahoma City. Kirk was area sales manager for Dillard’s Department Store. Later he went to dog training school and was employed at the Warwick Animal Hospital. After an early retirement due to health issues, he took over the job as HOA president where he and Tim have lived for 11 years.Kirk enjoyed traveling, gardening, antique shopping, and eating out, especially for breakfast and visiting. He had hours of enjoyment with their pet dogs Peanut, Dallas, Josie, and the cat Elvira.Kirk was preceded in death by his grandparents, Oscar and Elizabeth Ross, and Ernest and Mae Halderman, uncles, aunts, cousins, and other relatives.Survivors include his husband of 28 years, Tim Halderman, parents Lynne and Phyllis Halderman, sister Kendra Graf and husband James, niece Maloree Graf, and many other relatives and friends. Kirk will be deeply missed.A graveside service will be held for Kirk on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 2:00 p.m., with Pastor Jason Bonnicksen officiating, at the Long Island Cemetery in Long Island, Kansas.Following the graveside service, the family will receive friends and relatives at the Long Island Methodist Church for a time of fellowship and refreshments.Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, November 10, 2023, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, Kansas.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Long Island Community Building or The Peace Lutheran Church in Alma, Nebraska.

Kirk L. Halderman

Steven D. Dubbert, 75, Cawker City, KS, transitioned from his earthly life, peacefully on the morning of October 17, 2023, while recuperating at the Spalding Acute Rehabilitation Center, Aurora, CO, after previously undergoing open-heart surgery at The Medical Center of Aurora, Aurora, CO.&nbsp; Steve was born on February 15, 1948, to Gerald Carl and Doralyn Ann (Gasper) Dubbert in Beloit, Kansas.

Steve grew up on a farm west of Cawker City near Oak Creek. He attended St. Theresa’s Parochial School and Cawker City High School, graduating in 1966.&nbsp; He attended Fort Hays State University, and then began an amazing life of travel adventures and work experiences.

Through his 20s, Steve was employed in a variety of work disciplines, including the manufacturing sector while in Kansas and ultimately seeking adventures throughout the United States including harvesting peas in Maine, and fishing for crab and salmon in Alaska.&nbsp; His common mode of travel at that time involved hitchhiking from place to place across the United States and throughout northern Europe. During his travels, he loved visiting local and historical sites, music festivals, all while staying at youth encampments/hostels along the way. He was a true adventurer!

Beginning in his 30s, Steve decided to make Colorado his home, including the cities of Loveland, Lakewood, Wheatridge, and Aspen. He thoroughly embraced a clean living lifestyle as many Coloradans do…of holistic healing and Eastern philosophy medicine and supplementation – something that he studied and practiced until his death. He loved snow skiing, hiking, ballroom dancing, playing his guitar/country music, attending flea markets/thrift shops, reading, and the mountains! Steve appeared quiet and reserved, but he thoroughly enjoyed meeting new people and engaging in conversation, thus landing him in the profession of transporting travelers between airports and ski resorts across Colorado, as well as managing several apartment units during the majority of his working life.

Steve called Colorado his home until 2010 when a serious infection required an extensive back surgery. As a toddler, Steve had incurred 3rd&nbsp;degree burns to his back and neck which caused pain and chronic wounds throughout his life. This surgery was life-changing. He returned to Kansas where his mother, Doralyn, opened her home to him and cared for him as he recovered. After his recovery, he continued to live with her in their rural home, helping to maintain the property and to care for her with the daily chores of living until her passing in 2020.&nbsp; 

He loved fishing, gardening, following politics, history, travel, watching the Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos football, working on his vehicles, small building projects, and weekly outings to visit family. Steve continued to reside at his residence until a twist of fate required that he be airlifted from the Hays Medical Center, Hays, KS, to Colorado for the recent open-heart procedure. This was the first time he had returned to Colorado since his departure in 2010.

Steve’s “Celebration of Life” Mass will be held on May 25, 2024, at Sts. Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church in Cawker City at 10:00 a.m.with a luncheon immediately following at the Parish Hall.&nbsp; The inurnment of his ashes will be held in a private service at the St. Boniface Cemetery, Tipton, KS. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of A Better Place Funeral Service, Denver, CO.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Gerald (2000), his mother, Doralyn (2020) and his younger brother, Rodney (2022). He is survived by his sisters, Debby Loy (Wally), Barnard, KS; Darla Fuertges, Hays, KS; Carolyn McDaneld (Kenny), Wellington; a sister-in-law, Renee Dubbert, Johnstown, CO; and his nieces and nephews and their families.

<h2>Steven D. Dubbert, Cawker City</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698780818766.jpeg" alt="Steven D. Dubbert" />
 <figcaption>Steven D. Dubbert</figcaption>
 </figure>February 15, 1948 - October 17, 2023Steven D. Dubbert, 75, Cawker City, KS, transitioned from his earthly life, peacefully on the morning of October 17, 2023, while recuperating at the Spalding Acute Rehabilitation Center, Aurora, CO, after previously undergoing open-heart surgery at The Medical Center of Aurora, Aurora, CO.&nbsp; Steve was born on February 15, 1948, to Gerald Carl and Doralyn Ann (Gasper) Dubbert in Beloit, Kansas.Steve grew up on a farm west of Cawker City near Oak Creek. He attended St. Theresa’s Parochial School and Cawker City High School, graduating in 1966.&nbsp; He attended Fort Hays State University, and then began an amazing life of travel adventures and work experiences.Through his 20s, Steve was employed in a variety of work disciplines, including the manufacturing sector while in Kansas and ultimately seeking adventures throughout the United States including harvesting peas in Maine, and fishing for crab and salmon in Alaska.&nbsp; His common mode of travel at that time involved hitchhiking from place to place across the United States and throughout northern Europe. During his travels, he loved visiting local and historical sites, music festivals, all while staying at youth encampments/hostels along the way. He was a true adventurer!Beginning in his 30s, Steve decided to make Colorado his home, including the cities of Loveland, Lakewood, Wheatridge, and Aspen. He thoroughly embraced a clean living lifestyle as many Coloradans do…of holistic healing and Eastern philosophy medicine and supplementation – something that he studied and practiced until his death. He loved snow skiing, hiking, ballroom dancing, playing his guitar/country music, attending flea markets/thrift shops, reading, and the mountains! Steve appeared quiet and reserved, but he thoroughly enjoyed meeting new people and engaging in conversation, thus landing him in the profession of transporting travelers between airports and ski resorts across Colorado, as well as managing several apartment units during the majority of his working life.Steve called Colorado his home until 2010 when a serious infection required an extensive back surgery. As a toddler, Steve had incurred 3rd&nbsp;degree burns to his back and neck which caused pain and chronic wounds throughout his life. This surgery was life-changing. He returned to Kansas where his mother, Doralyn, opened her home to him and cared for him as he recovered. After his recovery, he continued to live with her in their rural home, helping to maintain the property and to care for her with the daily chores of living until her passing in 2020.&nbsp; He loved fishing, gardening, following politics, history, travel, watching the Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos football, working on his vehicles, small building projects, and weekly outings to visit family. Steve continued to reside at his residence until a twist of fate required that he be airlifted from the Hays Medical Center, Hays, KS, to Colorado for the recent open-heart procedure. This was the first time he had returned to Colorado since his departure in 2010.Steve’s “Celebration of Life” Mass will be held on May 25, 2024, at Sts. Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church in Cawker City at 10:00 a.m.with a luncheon immediately following at the Parish Hall.&nbsp; The inurnment of his ashes will be held in a private service at the St. Boniface Cemetery, Tipton, KS. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of A Better Place Funeral Service, Denver, CO.Steve was preceded in death by his father, Gerald (2000), his mother, Doralyn (2020) and his younger brother, Rodney (2022). He is survived by his sisters, Debby Loy (Wally), Barnard, KS; Darla Fuertges, Hays, KS; Carolyn McDaneld (Kenny), Wellington; a sister-in-law, Renee Dubbert, Johnstown, CO; and his nieces and nephews and their families.

Steven D. Dubbert

Ann L. (Schafer) Dechant, wife of the late Virgil C. Dechant, Past Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, died peacefully, Wednesday, October 25, 2023. She was 93.

She was born November 14, 1929, on her family’s farm near Liebenthal, Kan., the youngest child of Joseph and Rosa (Herrman) Schafer. 

Ann graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in Wichita, where she earned a teacher certification, and later attended Sacred Heart College in Wichita and Fort Hays State University in Hays.

On August 20, 1951, she married Virgil Dechant at St. Joseph Church in Liebenthal. 

Ann spent the next four years working as an elementary school teacher, and she continued her passion for education throughout her life, later serving four years as a member of the board of directors of the National Catholic Educational Association.

In 1967, Ann and Virgil and their children moved from Kansas to Connecticut, where Virgil took a full-time job working for the Knights of Columbus. He would be named Supreme Knight in 1977. The couple would live in Connecticut until 2001, when they moved back to Kansas and settled in Leawood.

In 1982, Saint John Paul II appointed Ann and Virgil to the Pontifical Council for the Family; they would be reappointed for five-year terms in 1988, 1993, and 1998. In 1987, they were appointed as auditors to the Synod of Bishops convened in Rome to examine the role of the laity in church affairs.

In a life full of special relationships, none was more noteworthy than Ann’s close ties with Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Theirs was a friendship rich in personal visits, phone calls, and correspondence that lasted from 1980 until Saint Teresa’s death in 1997.

In 1998, Saint John Paul II awarded Ann the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal, a decoration of the Holy See to honor service to the church and mankind.

Ann was preceded in death by her father Joseph, her mother Rosa, her husband Virgil, her brother Berthold, and sisters Rosemary Simpson, Geraldine Schafer, Coleta Haberman, and Leola Gottschalk. 

She is survived by her four children: Tom (Maggie) of La Crosse, Kan.; Dan of Lampe, Mo.; Karen (Bob Thompson) of Leawood, Kan.; and Bob (Gina) of Aldie, Va.; 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Other survivors include sisters-in-law Peggy Norris, Lucy Dechant and Karen Depperschmidt.

In Ann’s last few years, she and her family were touched by the love and attention she received from her caregivers, whose steadfast commitment ensured her daily comfort.

A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, Kan. on Thursday, November 2, with a visitation preceding Mass at 10 a.m.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael Church in La Crosse, Kan. on Saturday, November 4, followed by interment at the La Crosse Catholic Cemetery. A visitation will precede Mass at 9:30 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Church of the Nativity of Leawood, Kan. or to the St. Michael Tri-Parish Fund of La Crosse, Kan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698770580794.jpeg" alt="Ann L. (Schafer) Dechant" />
 <figcaption>Ann L. (Schafer) Dechant</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Ann L. (Schafer) Dechant</h2>November 14, 1929 - October 25, 2023Ann L. (Schafer) Dechant, wife of the late Virgil C. Dechant, Past Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, died peacefully, Wednesday, October 25, 2023. She was 93.She was born November 14, 1929, on her family’s farm near Liebenthal, Kan., the youngest child of Joseph and Rosa (Herrman) Schafer. Ann graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in Wichita, where she earned a teacher certification, and later attended Sacred Heart College in Wichita and Fort Hays State University in Hays.On August 20, 1951, she married Virgil Dechant at St. Joseph Church in Liebenthal. Ann spent the next four years working as an elementary school teacher, and she continued her passion for education throughout her life, later serving four years as a member of the board of directors of the National Catholic Educational Association.In 1967, Ann and Virgil and their children moved from Kansas to Connecticut, where Virgil took a full-time job working for the Knights of Columbus. He would be named Supreme Knight in 1977. The couple would live in Connecticut until 2001, when they moved back to Kansas and settled in Leawood.In 1982, Saint John Paul II appointed Ann and Virgil to the Pontifical Council for the Family; they would be reappointed for five-year terms in 1988, 1993, and 1998. In 1987, they were appointed as auditors to the Synod of Bishops convened in Rome to examine the role of the laity in church affairs.In a life full of special relationships, none was more noteworthy than Ann’s close ties with Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Theirs was a friendship rich in personal visits, phone calls, and correspondence that lasted from 1980 until Saint Teresa’s death in 1997.In 1998, Saint John Paul II awarded Ann the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal, a decoration of the Holy See to honor service to the church and mankind.Ann was preceded in death by her father Joseph, her mother Rosa, her husband Virgil, her brother Berthold, and sisters Rosemary Simpson, Geraldine Schafer, Coleta Haberman, and Leola Gottschalk. She is survived by her four children: Tom (Maggie) of La Crosse, Kan.; Dan of Lampe, Mo.; Karen (Bob Thompson) of Leawood, Kan.; and Bob (Gina) of Aldie, Va.; 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Other survivors include sisters-in-law Peggy Norris, Lucy Dechant and Karen Depperschmidt.In Ann’s last few years, she and her family were touched by the love and attention she received from her caregivers, whose steadfast commitment ensured her daily comfort.A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, Kan. on Thursday, November 2, with a visitation preceding Mass at 10 a.m.A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. at St. Michael Church in La Crosse, Kan. on Saturday, November 4, followed by interment at the La Crosse Catholic Cemetery. A visitation will precede Mass at 9:30 a.m.Memorial contributions may be made to the Church of the Nativity of Leawood, Kan. or to the St. Michael Tri-Parish Fund of La Crosse, Kan.

Ann L. (Schafer) Dechant

Ernest L. McElfish, of Plainville, Kansas, passed away on October 24, 2023, at Redbud Village in Plainville, at the age of 91. He was born on December 17, 1931, to Ernest and Martha (Ede) McElfish in Mulberry, Kansas. 

He was married on April 4, 1982, to Melva Irene Kerns. She preceded him in death on December 23, 2019.

Ernest grew up in Mulberry, KS. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He worked as a mechanic. He was good at welding and building things. He loved the outdoors and animals. He enjoyed riding his bike and traveling to New Mexico, the Lake of the Ozarks, and camping on the family farm in Mulberry.

He is survived by his daughters, Judy (Darrell) Ross of Liberty, MO, Renee Snyder of Kansas City, and Kim (Shane) Mai of Plainville; son, Mark McElfish of Kansas City; 11 grandchildren: Marty, Amy, Angie, Missy, Chad, Cortney, Ashley, Loni, Stevie, Cali, and Devin; 16 great-grandchildren: Colby, Blake, Danielle, Ellie, Derrick, Victoria, Julia, Max, Georgia, Jacob, Owen, Emma, Spencer, Darla, Joelle, and David; and great-great-granddaughter, Tycie and several cousins.

Ernest is preceded in death by his five sisters, Della May, Nadine, Anna Ruth, Wilma Faye, Nelly Fern; two brothers, Wilmer and George; daughter, Cheryl Kohl; several aunts and uncles.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 2 at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Plainville. There will be no visitation. Burial will follow in the Plainville Cemetery.

To&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/?oId=29743898&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698756925.128.1.1698757033.46.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29743898&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698756925.128.1.1698757033.46.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Ernest, please&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/?oId=29743898&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698756925.128.1.1698757033.46.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

<h2>Ernest Lloyd McElfish</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698757078460.png" alt="Ernest Lloyd McElfish" />
 <figcaption>Ernest Lloyd McElfish</figcaption>
 </figure>December 17, 1931 - October 24, 2023Ernest L. McElfish, of Plainville, Kansas, passed away on October 24, 2023, at Redbud Village in Plainville, at the age of 91. He was born on December 17, 1931, to Ernest and Martha (Ede) McElfish in Mulberry, Kansas. He was married on April 4, 1982, to Melva Irene Kerns. She preceded him in death on December 23, 2019.Ernest grew up in Mulberry, KS. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He worked as a mechanic. He was good at welding and building things. He loved the outdoors and animals. He enjoyed riding his bike and traveling to New Mexico, the Lake of the Ozarks, and camping on the family farm in Mulberry.He is survived by his daughters, Judy (Darrell) Ross of Liberty, MO, Renee Snyder of Kansas City, and Kim (Shane) Mai of Plainville; son, Mark McElfish of Kansas City; 11 grandchildren: Marty, Amy, Angie, Missy, Chad, Cortney, Ashley, Loni, Stevie, Cali, and Devin; 16 great-grandchildren: Colby, Blake, Danielle, Ellie, Derrick, Victoria, Julia, Max, Georgia, Jacob, Owen, Emma, Spencer, Darla, Joelle, and David; and great-great-granddaughter, Tycie and several cousins.Ernest is preceded in death by his five sisters, Della May, Nadine, Anna Ruth, Wilma Faye, Nelly Fern; two brothers, Wilmer and George; daughter, Cheryl Kohl; several aunts and uncles.A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 2 at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Plainville. There will be no visitation. Burial will follow in the Plainville Cemetery.To&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/?oId=29743898&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698756925.128.1.1698757033.46.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29743898&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698756925.128.1.1698757033.46.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Ernest, please&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/?oId=29743898&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698756925.128.1.1698757033.46.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

Ernest Lloyd McElfish

Ted L. Lambert, 85, passed away on October 29, 2023, at the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, KS. He was born on December 12, 1937, at the family farm to the late Alford E. and Ival M. (Kern) Lambert. 

He married Freda J. Hiser on Feb. 27, 1960, in Plainville, KS. They were blessed with four children: Becky, Chris, Mark, and Donna.

Ted took great pride in his community. He was an active member of the Lions Club, the Knights of Columbus, and the Palco Pride Committee. Ted was also a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Damar.

In his younger years Ted served on the USD 269 School Board, drove the school bus for 30 years, and worked as a custodian at the grade school. He was also a member of the Palco EMT, Palco Saddle Club, served on the Rooks County Fair Board, and was a Rooks County Commissioner.

Most who knew Ted knew that his hobby was farming. When he took over running the family farm, he spent some of those years in partnership with his brother George. Although he officially turned the farm over to his son Chris, he was blessed that he was able to still go out and run the tractor. Thankfully his grandson Taylor was able to fix most of his repairs.

Ted’s pride and joy was his family. He was married to the love of his life, Freda, for over 60 years. They enjoyed spending time with their kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids. Holidays were always very special with activities that included lots of good food, laughs, and card playing.

Ted is survived by his sons Chris (Johnna) Lambert of Palco, KS and Mark Lambert and Laura Stevenson of Arlington, KS; daughter Donna (Mike) Raile of Durant, OK; brothers Wayne and George; nine grandchildren, Zachary (Bryanna) Allsbury, Lauren (Chris) Skov, Marissa (Kelton) Lambert, Taylor (Maddie) Lambert, Nathan Lambert, Daniel (Nikki) Lambert, Patrick Lambert, Paige (Landon) Stucky, and Maverick Raile; and six great-grandchildren with four more on the way.

Preceding Ted in death are his wife, Freda; daughter, Rebecca Allsbury Nolan; grandson Brandon Nolan; his parents; and two sisters.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023 at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Damar, Kansas starting at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Pleasantview Cemetery, in Palco, Kansas. Visitation will be on Thursday from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. with a parish vigil and rosary starting at 7 p.m. at the church in Damar.

Memorials are suggested to Palco Lions Club or Rooks County Health Center and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, Kansas 67663.

To&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/?oId=29743007&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698684656.127.1.1698684667.49.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29743007&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698684656.127.1.1698684667.49.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Ted, please&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/?oId=29743007&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698684656.127.1.1698684667.49.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

<h2>Ted Lyn Lambert</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698756903644.jpeg" alt="Ted Lyn Lambert" />
 <figcaption>Ted Lyn Lambert</figcaption>
 </figure>December 12, 1937 - October 29, 2023Ted L. Lambert, 85, passed away on October 29, 2023, at the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, KS. He was born on December 12, 1937, at the family farm to the late Alford E. and Ival M. (Kern) Lambert. He married Freda J. Hiser on Feb. 27, 1960, in Plainville, KS. They were blessed with four children: Becky, Chris, Mark, and Donna.Ted took great pride in his community. He was an active member of the Lions Club, the Knights of Columbus, and the Palco Pride Committee. Ted was also a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Damar.In his younger years Ted served on the USD 269 School Board, drove the school bus for 30 years, and worked as a custodian at the grade school. He was also a member of the Palco EMT, Palco Saddle Club, served on the Rooks County Fair Board, and was a Rooks County Commissioner.Most who knew Ted knew that his hobby was farming. When he took over running the family farm, he spent some of those years in partnership with his brother George. Although he officially turned the farm over to his son Chris, he was blessed that he was able to still go out and run the tractor. Thankfully his grandson Taylor was able to fix most of his repairs.Ted’s pride and joy was his family. He was married to the love of his life, Freda, for over 60 years. They enjoyed spending time with their kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids. Holidays were always very special with activities that included lots of good food, laughs, and card playing.Ted is survived by his sons Chris (Johnna) Lambert of Palco, KS and Mark Lambert and Laura Stevenson of Arlington, KS; daughter Donna (Mike) Raile of Durant, OK; brothers Wayne and George; nine grandchildren, Zachary (Bryanna) Allsbury, Lauren (Chris) Skov, Marissa (Kelton) Lambert, Taylor (Maddie) Lambert, Nathan Lambert, Daniel (Nikki) Lambert, Patrick Lambert, Paige (Landon) Stucky, and Maverick Raile; and six great-grandchildren with four more on the way.Preceding Ted in death are his wife, Freda; daughter, Rebecca Allsbury Nolan; grandson Brandon Nolan; his parents; and two sisters.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023 at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Damar, Kansas starting at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Pleasantview Cemetery, in Palco, Kansas. Visitation will be on Thursday from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. with a parish vigil and rosary starting at 7 p.m. at the church in Damar.Memorials are suggested to Palco Lions Club or Rooks County Health Center and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, Kansas 67663.To&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/?oId=29743007&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698684656.127.1.1698684667.49.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29743007&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698684656.127.1.1698684667.49.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Ted, please&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-plainville.tributestore.com/?oId=29743007&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1698684656.127.1.1698684667.49.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

Ted Lyn Lambert

David J. Stenger, 61, Topeka, passed away Sunday, August 15, 2021.

He was born October 18, 1959, the son of Paul and Margie (Wolf) Stenger.&nbsp; He graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology.&nbsp; His hobbies included working on cars and anything he could build with his hands.&nbsp; David was a very caring man who loved his family and friends. &nbsp;

He is survived by his brothers and sisters: Vicki (Karen Hyland) Willenborg of Kansas City, MO, Patrick Stenger of Topeka, Steven Stenger of Holton, and Suellyn Stenger of Hays, sister-in-law: Anne E. Stenger of Kansas City, MO, along with his former wife and lifelong friend, Ronna Walker, and daughters Miranda (Jarrod) Ferguson, Samantha (Dave) Cordell and Natalie Stenger, all of Texas.&nbsp; David also leaves behind four grandchildren: Raelynn Ferguson, Mikayla Kizziar, Olivia Cordell, and Morrison Stenger, one great grandson: Oliver Kizziar, along with many nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, and wonderful friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister: Mary Kay Stenger, and brothers: Donald J. Stenger, Michael J. Stenger, and Paul J. Stenger, Jr.

David’s body was donated to The University of Kansas Medical Center.

Inurnment will be at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 4, 2023 in St. Joseph Cemetery, Hays, Kansas.

Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association or to Helping Hands Humane Society of Topeka and may be sent to the family, in care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. 

Condolences may be left for the family at www.haysmemorial.com.

<h2>David J. Stenger, Topeka</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629900637652.jpeg" alt="David J. Stenger" />
 <figcaption>David J. Stenger</figcaption>
 </figure>October 18, 1959 - August 15, 2021David J. Stenger, 61, Topeka, passed away Sunday, August 15, 2021.He was born October 18, 1959, the son of Paul and Margie (Wolf) Stenger.&nbsp; He graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology.&nbsp; His hobbies included working on cars and anything he could build with his hands.&nbsp; David was a very caring man who loved his family and friends. &nbsp;He is survived by his brothers and sisters: Vicki (Karen Hyland) Willenborg of Kansas City, MO, Patrick Stenger of Topeka, Steven Stenger of Holton, and Suellyn Stenger of Hays, sister-in-law: Anne E. Stenger of Kansas City, MO, along with his former wife and lifelong friend, Ronna Walker, and daughters Miranda (Jarrod) Ferguson, Samantha (Dave) Cordell and Natalie Stenger, all of Texas.&nbsp; David also leaves behind four grandchildren: Raelynn Ferguson, Mikayla Kizziar, Olivia Cordell, and Morrison Stenger, one great grandson: Oliver Kizziar, along with many nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, and wonderful friends.He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister: Mary Kay Stenger, and brothers: Donald J. Stenger, Michael J. Stenger, and Paul J. Stenger, Jr.David’s body was donated to The University of Kansas Medical Center.Inurnment will be at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 4, 2023 in St. Joseph Cemetery, Hays, Kansas. Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association or to Helping Hands Humane Society of Topeka and may be sent to the family, in care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences may be left for the family at www.haysmemorial.com.

David J. Stenger

Alfred John Dreiling, 102, of Hays, Kansas, died Friday, September 8, 2023, at the Kansas Soldiers’ Home, Fort Dodge. He died the oldest military veteran in Ellis County.

He was born November 9, 1920, in Herzog Township, Kansas, to Nick and Anna (Stadleman) Dreiling. When was three years old, he moved with his family to a farm southeast of Ogallah, in Trego County, Kansas, where he graduated from Trego Community High School in 1938. He attended Fort Hays State University for one year as a pre-law major and baseball player, then worked as a brakeman on the Union Pacific Railroad the succeeding year to pay back his benefactor, Trego County Probate Judge Walter Swiggert.

As the nation prepared for World War II, he moved to Los Angeles, California, where he was employed at the Douglas Aircraft Co. Long Beach factory as an experimental mechanic on the SBD Dauntless dive bomber. He was inducted into the U.S. Army in July 1943, serving as a clerk typist, and honorably discharged as a staff sergeant in June 1946.

Following his military service, he began a long career in banking and finance, beginning in 1946 with Bank of America in Los Angeles, during which he earned a master of banking degree from the California Bankers Association Graduate School of Banking at the University of California-Los Angeles in 1950. He moved to Aurora, Colorado in 1952, where he was executive vice president of United Bank of Aurora (now Wells Fargo Bank), until he moved to Hays, Kansas, and became vice president and chief operating officer of Hays National Bank in 1977 until his retirement in 1985. 

He enjoyed returning to the family farm, raising wheat, sorghum, and stocker cattle until he sold the farm in 2000, then working on his lawn and garden until he was 98 years old. In his later years, he enjoyed attending FHSU athletic events, watching the Kansas City Royals and Denver Broncos on television, as well as meeting up daily with friends for coffee at McDonald’s of North Hays.

He married his high school sweetheart Dorothea Nell Blakely of WaKeeney, Kansas, at St. Michael Catholic Church, Los Angeles, on February 20, 1944. She died June 7, 2005. He was appointed by Archbishop of Denver James V. Casey in 1967 to be founding president of the first Catholic parish council west of the Mississippi River at St. Therese Parish of Aurora. He was also an active member of the Aurora Rotary Club, Aurora Lions Club, and Aurora Elks Lodge #1921. He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church of Hays, and Hays American Legion Post #173.

Survivors include two sons, James (Linda), of North Charleston, S.C., and Larry, of Hays; four grandsons, three granddaughters, two great-grandsons, five great-granddaughters, two stepgreat-grandsons, and one stepgreat-granddaughter.

Along with his wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Donna Jeanne, his parents, six brothers, and three sisters.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Inurnment with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard will follow in Christ the King Cemetery in WaKeeney. The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. until service time on November 4, 2023 at the&nbsp;church. Friends and family may gather from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at McDonald's of North Hays, 3406 Vine Street, to celebrate Alfred's life and sign the register book.

&nbsp;Memorials are suggested and payable to Fort Hays State University Foundation for the Alfred and Larry Dreiling Family Fund for Excellence in Political Science or to HaysMed Foundation. 

Services are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. 

Condolences and memories of Alfred may be left for the family at www.haysmemorial.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695348498625.jpeg" alt="Alfred John Dreiling" />
 <figcaption>Alfred John Dreiling</figcaption>
 </figure>November 9, 1920 - September 8, 2023Alfred John Dreiling, 102, of Hays, Kansas, died Friday, September 8, 2023, at the Kansas Soldiers’ Home, Fort Dodge. He died the oldest military veteran in Ellis County.He was born November 9, 1920, in Herzog Township, Kansas, to Nick and Anna (Stadleman) Dreiling. When was three years old, he moved with his family to a farm southeast of Ogallah, in Trego County, Kansas, where he graduated from Trego Community High School in 1938. He attended Fort Hays State University for one year as a pre-law major and baseball player, then worked as a brakeman on the Union Pacific Railroad the succeeding year to pay back his benefactor, Trego County Probate Judge Walter Swiggert.As the nation prepared for World War II, he moved to Los Angeles, California, where he was employed at the Douglas Aircraft Co. Long Beach factory as an experimental mechanic on the SBD Dauntless dive bomber. He was inducted into the U.S. Army in July 1943, serving as a clerk typist, and honorably discharged as a staff sergeant in June 1946.Following his military service, he began a long career in banking and finance, beginning in 1946 with Bank of America in Los Angeles, during which he earned a master of banking degree from the California Bankers Association Graduate School of Banking at the University of California-Los Angeles in 1950. He moved to Aurora, Colorado in 1952, where he was executive vice president of United Bank of Aurora (now Wells Fargo Bank), until he moved to Hays, Kansas, and became vice president and chief operating officer of Hays National Bank in 1977 until his retirement in 1985. He enjoyed returning to the family farm, raising wheat, sorghum, and stocker cattle until he sold the farm in 2000, then working on his lawn and garden until he was 98 years old. In his later years, he enjoyed attending FHSU athletic events, watching the Kansas City Royals and Denver Broncos on television, as well as meeting up daily with friends for coffee at McDonald’s of North Hays.He married his high school sweetheart Dorothea Nell Blakely of WaKeeney, Kansas, at St. Michael Catholic Church, Los Angeles, on February 20, 1944. She died June 7, 2005. He was appointed by Archbishop of Denver James V. Casey in 1967 to be founding president of the first Catholic parish council west of the Mississippi River at St. Therese Parish of Aurora. He was also an active member of the Aurora Rotary Club, Aurora Lions Club, and Aurora Elks Lodge #1921. He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church of Hays, and Hays American Legion Post #173.Survivors include two sons, James (Linda), of North Charleston, S.C., and Larry, of Hays; four grandsons, three granddaughters, two great-grandsons, five great-granddaughters, two stepgreat-grandsons, and one stepgreat-granddaughter.Along with his wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Donna Jeanne, his parents, six brothers, and three sisters.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Inurnment with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard will follow in Christ the King Cemetery in WaKeeney. The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. until service time on November 4, 2023 at the&nbsp;church. Friends and family may gather from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at McDonald's of North Hays, 3406 Vine Street, to celebrate Alfred's life and sign the register book.&nbsp;Memorials are suggested and payable to Fort Hays State University Foundation for the Alfred and Larry Dreiling Family Fund for Excellence in Political Science or to HaysMed Foundation. Services are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences and memories of Alfred may be left for the family at www.haysmemorial.com.

Alfred John Dreiling

******PLEASE NOTE SERVICE IS SCHEDULED ON CENTRAL TIME**********

Jay Dean Gordon, age 65, of McDonald, Kansas passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at HaysMed in Hays, Kansas. &nbsp;

Jay was born June 7, 1958 to Robert and Patricia (Haps) Gordon in California. Jay grew up and went to school in Havre, Montana. 

Jay served in the United States Army and Navy from 1976 to 1980 and 1982 to 1989 Navy and 2005 to 2018 Army National Guard. 

On April 23, 1994 he married Rose Smith Johnson. 

They moved to McDonald and Jay worked for the Rawlins County Road and Bridge Department for many years. He was a commander of the Bird City Legion, served on the McDonald City Council and belonged to the American Legion Riders. &nbsp;Jay enjoyed camping, fishing and spending time with his family and friends.

Surviving Jay are his wife Rose of McDonald, KS; son John Smith of Johnstown, CO; daughters Brandy (Michael) Luna of Commerce City, CO, Mandy Miller of Livingston, MT and Brittany Longmire of Louisville, KY; brothers Glenn Robin (Marion) Lanius of Reno, NV, Robert (Brenda) Gordon of Hillsboro, OK, William (Jodi) Lanius of Oaksdale, WA, Russell Gordon of OR, &nbsp;Brendon Gordon of OR; sister Jana (Kenneth) Mantzey of Goodyear, AZ; 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and many more family &nbsp;and &nbsp;friends. &nbsp;

Jay is preceded in death by his parents and son Joseph.&nbsp;

Memorial service will be Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 11 a.m. CT at the Federated Church of McDonald, 211 Jewell Avenue, McDonald, Kansas 67745. Inurnment following the service at the McDonald Cemetery.&nbsp;

Memorials may be designated to the McDonald Area Development, P.O.&nbsp;Box 75 McDonald, KS 67745. 

Information and condolences&nbsp;www.batemanfuneral.com.

To&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Jay-Gordon/sympathy-landing">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Jay-Gordon/1069737/memorial-tree">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Jay Dean Gordon, please&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Jay-Gordon/sympathy-landing">visit our floral store.</a>

<h2>Jay Dean Gordon, McDonald</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698331612529.jpeg" alt="Jay Dean Gordon" />
 <figcaption>Jay Dean Gordon</figcaption>
 </figure>June 7, 1958 ~ October 18, 2023 (age 65)******PLEASE NOTE SERVICE IS SCHEDULED ON CENTRAL TIME**********Jay Dean Gordon, age 65, of McDonald, Kansas passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at HaysMed in Hays, Kansas. &nbsp;Jay was born June 7, 1958 to Robert and Patricia (Haps) Gordon in California. Jay grew up and went to school in Havre, Montana. Jay served in the United States Army and Navy from 1976 to 1980 and 1982 to 1989 Navy and 2005 to 2018 Army National Guard. On April 23, 1994 he married Rose Smith Johnson. They moved to McDonald and Jay worked for the Rawlins County Road and Bridge Department for many years. He was a commander of the Bird City Legion, served on the McDonald City Council and belonged to the American Legion Riders. &nbsp;Jay enjoyed camping, fishing and spending time with his family and friends.Surviving Jay are his wife Rose of McDonald, KS; son John Smith of Johnstown, CO; daughters Brandy (Michael) Luna of Commerce City, CO, Mandy Miller of Livingston, MT and Brittany Longmire of Louisville, KY; brothers Glenn Robin (Marion) Lanius of Reno, NV, Robert (Brenda) Gordon of Hillsboro, OK, William (Jodi) Lanius of Oaksdale, WA, Russell Gordon of OR, &nbsp;Brendon Gordon of OR; sister Jana (Kenneth) Mantzey of Goodyear, AZ; 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and many more family &nbsp;and &nbsp;friends. &nbsp;Jay is preceded in death by his parents and son Joseph.&nbsp;Memorial service will be Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 11 a.m. CT at the Federated Church of McDonald, 211 Jewell Avenue, McDonald, Kansas 67745. Inurnment following the service at the McDonald Cemetery.&nbsp;Memorials may be designated to the McDonald Area Development, P.O.&nbsp;Box 75 McDonald, KS 67745. Information and condolences&nbsp;www.batemanfuneral.com.To&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Jay-Gordon/sympathy-landing">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Jay-Gordon/1069737/memorial-tree">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Jay Dean Gordon, please&nbsp;<a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/Jay-Gordon/sympathy-landing">visit our floral store.</a>

Jay Dean Gordon

Ronald Dean Swalley, 81, died at his home in Wichita, Kansas, on October 29, 2023. &nbsp;He was born July 30, 1942, in Nowata, Oklahoma, the son of James E. and Edith (Hicks) Swalley. 

Ronald graduated from Hoisington High School in 1960. He served in the United States Army Reserves from 1966 to 1971 as a Specialist 5.

On December 22, 1962, he married Carol Darlene Stuart in Ulysses, Kansas.&nbsp;

Ronald worked as a CO-OP grain elevator manager for 37 years, that took them across four states, retiring in 2006. &nbsp;He was active in his community serving as a volunteer fireman, in civil defense, and with the chamber of commerce. He was a member of the Believer’s Southern Baptist Church of Wichita.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carol Swalley of the home; son, Shane (Sue) Swalley of Belpre; daughter, Kara (Paul) Jones of Tulsa, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Justin Swalley and Janessa Swalley both of Great Bend, Kaylin Drake of Belpre, Baleigh (Zaid) Kadhim of Dallas, Texas, and Stuart Jones of Tulsa, OK; and brothers, Glenn Swalley of Ft. Collins, Colorado, and Hal Swalley of Wichita; sisters, Janice Kempke of Claflin, Kansas, Wanda Flood of Mayfield, New York, Sue Helfer of Alaska, and Ann Wolff of Tulsa, Oklahoma.&nbsp;

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant son, Thad Stuart Swalley.

Friends may sign the book today and until service. There will be no viewing as cremation has taken place.

Memorial service will be 1:00 p.m., Friday, November 3, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Tim Ohls presiding. Inurnment with military honors will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, rural Great Bend, Kansas.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or Believer’s Southern Baptist Church of Wichita, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Ronald Dean Swalley, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/ronald-swalley/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Ronald Dean Swalley, Wichita</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698693766896.jpeg" alt="Ronald Dean Swalley" />
 <figcaption>Ronald Dean Swalley</figcaption>
 </figure>July 30, 1942 - October 29, 2023Ronald Dean Swalley, 81, died at his home in Wichita, Kansas, on October 29, 2023. &nbsp;He was born July 30, 1942, in Nowata, Oklahoma, the son of James E. and Edith (Hicks) Swalley. Ronald graduated from Hoisington High School in 1960. He served in the United States Army Reserves from 1966 to 1971 as a Specialist 5.On December 22, 1962, he married Carol Darlene Stuart in Ulysses, Kansas.&nbsp;Ronald worked as a CO-OP grain elevator manager for 37 years, that took them across four states, retiring in 2006. &nbsp;He was active in his community serving as a volunteer fireman, in civil defense, and with the chamber of commerce. He was a member of the Believer’s Southern Baptist Church of Wichita.He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carol Swalley of the home; son, Shane (Sue) Swalley of Belpre; daughter, Kara (Paul) Jones of Tulsa, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Justin Swalley and Janessa Swalley both of Great Bend, Kaylin Drake of Belpre, Baleigh (Zaid) Kadhim of Dallas, Texas, and Stuart Jones of Tulsa, OK; and brothers, Glenn Swalley of Ft. Collins, Colorado, and Hal Swalley of Wichita; sisters, Janice Kempke of Claflin, Kansas, Wanda Flood of Mayfield, New York, Sue Helfer of Alaska, and Ann Wolff of Tulsa, Oklahoma.&nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant son, Thad Stuart Swalley.Friends may sign the book today and until service. There will be no viewing as cremation has taken place.Memorial service will be 1:00 p.m., Friday, November 3, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Tim Ohls presiding. Inurnment with military honors will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, rural Great Bend, Kansas.Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or Believer’s Southern Baptist Church of Wichita, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Ronald Dean Swalley, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/ronald-swalley/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Ronald Dean Swalley

Curtis Lee Uhl, age 80, died at the Great Bend Regional Hospital, Great Bend, Kansas on October 28, 2023. &nbsp;He was born on December 7, 1942, in Amarillo, Texas the son of George and Dorothy (French) Uhl.

Curtis worked in the oil field most of his adult life, spending most of it as a driller.  When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed collecting things, especially antique cars and tractors which he would often restore.  Curtis also spent many hours riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Graveside funeral service will be held at the Ness City Cemetery, on November 2, 2023, 1:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be given to Children’ Mercy Hospital, Kansas City in Curtis’ memory.

Memories and words of support may be left for the family by writing in the guest book.

<h2>Curtis Lee Uhl</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698588436270.jpeg" alt="Curtis Lee Uhl" />
 <figcaption>Curtis Lee Uhl</figcaption>
 </figure>December 7, 1942 - October 28, 2023Curtis Lee Uhl, age 80, died at the Great Bend Regional Hospital, Great Bend, Kansas on October 28, 2023. &nbsp;He was born on December 7, 1942, in Amarillo, Texas the son of George and Dorothy (French) Uhl.Curtis worked in the oil field most of his adult life, spending most of it as a driller. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed collecting things, especially antique cars and tractors which he would often restore. Curtis also spent many hours riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle.Graveside funeral service will be held at the Ness City Cemetery, on November 2, 2023, 1:00 p.m.Memorial contributions may be given to Children’ Mercy Hospital, Kansas City in Curtis’ memory.Memories and words of support may be left for the family by writing in the guest book.

Curtis Lee Uhl

John William Palmer – b. May 27, 1939 d. October 27, 2023

John was born to John Howard Palmer and Esther Lora (Hill) Palmer at Rock Dell, Minnesota, on May 27, 1939. He was the first of four children. His siblings are David Palmer of Bison, KS, Charles Palmer of Ocala, FL, and Mary Buchanan of Abilene, KS. 

John was raised as a farmer and dairyman. 

He married Doris Mae Prohaska on October 4, 1963, and from this union were born John Daniel Palmer, James Dennis Palmer, and Jerry Duane Palmer. 

Born into labor, John spent most of his working life in construction and building. In addition to the farming of his youth, he also owned and operated a D8 Caterpillar dozer that he used to clear land, clean out ponds, and do heavy landscaping in Minnesota and Iowa. He was also naturally talented at other heavy equipment including large scrapers, ditchers, loaders, all manner of farm equipment, over-the-road trucking, and highway equipment. During his life he also operated his own concrete construction business. He built everything from sidewalks, to basements, house and building foundations, grain bins, and industrial floors in Minnesota and Kansas. He was proud that he had successfully poured concrete in every month of the year in both states. 

He also framed houses in Prescott, Arizona, and worked in the oil field around Russell, Kansas. He spent the last 15 years of his regular working career recycling highways in Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, until he “retired” with Doris to operate Maple Springs Campground in southern Minnesota for 15 more years. Together, they transformed a small, locally known campground into the top-rated campground in the entire state of Minnesota.

When he worked for others instead of himself, John always ascended into a supervisory position. He had a natural way of making his employees and subordinates feel valued. Consequently, John was always able to get the best from his men and was rewarded by loyalty from them as they would request to work with him instead of other supervisors. John was patient and a good teacher who worked with his men instead of over them.

John worked in Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, and Florida at different times during his working life. During lean times he also worked as an over-the-road trucker, criss-crossing much of the lower 48 states and occasionally into Canada. 

John worked many and varied jobs to make sure his family was cared for. This also resulted in traveling to find climates more suitable to the health struggles of his children. In 1976, John moved his family to the Alton, KS, area and into Osborne, KS, in 1978, where they have owned a home until his passing.

John enjoyed nature, so loved hunting, fishing, and camping when time allowed. He also enjoyed the company of people, thus card parties, dominoes, food, ice cream, and campfires with friends and family were always highlights of his life.

John was very proud of his family. He was married to Doris for over 60 years. He loved his children and regretted how work prevented him and Doris from being able to spend more time with them and his grandchildren. But John was always very generous with his family, both immediate and extended, when needs arose. He was also very generous to the many churches he and Doris had become a part of as they worked around the country.

As a man of labor, the intangibles of life seemed harder to stand on than the things he could control, but John obeyed the gospel with Doris early in their marriage and continued to hold membership and involvement with churches of Christ throughout his life.

The one struggle John could never overcome was his battle with Parkinson's disease that infiltrated the last 20 years of his life. He fought with everything medical science had to offer and all his stamina until he succumbed on October 27, 2023.

John is survived by his wife Doris, his three siblings, three sons, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He has been cremated and is with family.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>John William Palmer</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698686066439.jpeg" alt="John William Palmer" />
 <figcaption>John William Palmer</figcaption>
 </figure>John William Palmer – b. May 27, 1939 d. October 27, 2023John was born to John Howard Palmer and Esther Lora (Hill) Palmer at Rock Dell, Minnesota, on May 27, 1939. He was the first of four children. His siblings are David Palmer of Bison, KS, Charles Palmer of Ocala, FL, and Mary Buchanan of Abilene, KS. John was raised as a farmer and dairyman. He married Doris Mae Prohaska on October 4, 1963, and from this union were born John Daniel Palmer, James Dennis Palmer, and Jerry Duane Palmer. Born into labor, John spent most of his working life in construction and building. In addition to the farming of his youth, he also owned and operated a D8 Caterpillar dozer that he used to clear land, clean out ponds, and do heavy landscaping in Minnesota and Iowa. He was also naturally talented at other heavy equipment including large scrapers, ditchers, loaders, all manner of farm equipment, over-the-road trucking, and highway equipment. During his life he also operated his own concrete construction business. He built everything from sidewalks, to basements, house and building foundations, grain bins, and industrial floors in Minnesota and Kansas. He was proud that he had successfully poured concrete in every month of the year in both states. He also framed houses in Prescott, Arizona, and worked in the oil field around Russell, Kansas. He spent the last 15 years of his regular working career recycling highways in Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, until he “retired” with Doris to operate Maple Springs Campground in southern Minnesota for 15 more years. Together, they transformed a small, locally known campground into the top-rated campground in the entire state of Minnesota.When he worked for others instead of himself, John always ascended into a supervisory position. He had a natural way of making his employees and subordinates feel valued. Consequently, John was always able to get the best from his men and was rewarded by loyalty from them as they would request to work with him instead of other supervisors. John was patient and a good teacher who worked with his men instead of over them.John worked in Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, and Florida at different times during his working life. During lean times he also worked as an over-the-road trucker, criss-crossing much of the lower 48 states and occasionally into Canada. John worked many and varied jobs to make sure his family was cared for. This also resulted in traveling to find climates more suitable to the health struggles of his children. In 1976, John moved his family to the Alton, KS, area and into Osborne, KS, in 1978, where they have owned a home until his passing.John enjoyed nature, so loved hunting, fishing, and camping when time allowed. He also enjoyed the company of people, thus card parties, dominoes, food, ice cream, and campfires with friends and family were always highlights of his life.John was very proud of his family. He was married to Doris for over 60 years. He loved his children and regretted how work prevented him and Doris from being able to spend more time with them and his grandchildren. But John was always very generous with his family, both immediate and extended, when needs arose. He was also very generous to the many churches he and Doris had become a part of as they worked around the country.As a man of labor, the intangibles of life seemed harder to stand on than the things he could control, but John obeyed the gospel with Doris early in their marriage and continued to hold membership and involvement with churches of Christ throughout his life.The one struggle John could never overcome was his battle with Parkinson's disease that infiltrated the last 20 years of his life. He fought with everything medical science had to offer and all his stamina until he succumbed on October 27, 2023.John is survived by his wife Doris, his three siblings, three sons, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He has been cremated and is with family.&nbsp;&nbsp;

John William Palmer

David Walter Kuerschner, the fifth child of Reverend Edwin M. and Olivia B (Krueger) was born July 13, 1945 in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. 

His at-home baptism occurred on August 12 with confirmation of that vow on March 22, 1959, at Trinity Lutheran, North Morristown, Minnesota. At three years of age, Dave determined he would be a pastor. The majority of his formal education reflected this goal beginning at the Lutheran Day School, North Morristown, Concordia Academy and College (St. Paul, Minnesota), Concordia Senior College (Fort Wayne, Indiana) and Concordia Seminary (St. Louis, Missouri - Masters of Divinity degree, 1971) completed the pastoral education. His love of singing was evident in all of his participation in all of the Concordia choirs.

While at Concordia College, Dave met PeggyJean Holste. They were married on June 9, 1968, Ludell, Kansas. God blessed this union with three children: Jonathan Kirk ('75), Jeffrey Kristof ('80) and Jenienne Kim ('82). 

After completing his vicarage year at Bethel, Middleberg Heights, Ohio and seminary graduation, Dave was called to Holy Trinity, Lakeview, Michigan, where he served for nine plus years. Other parishes he served were Zion, Staunton, Illinois and Immanuel, Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 1992, Cargill Associates (a para church company) approached Dave to be a church consultant. Six years later he was asked to do this work for Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod as Vice President of Agency Services. As part of the "umbrella" of Lutheran Church Extension Fund, he later became VP of Capital Funding Services. During this time, he ministered to 41 congregations and 36 agencies, programs at 56 and 48 respectively. 

Retirement in 2011 brought many joys. First and foremost was time spent with adult children and grandchildren, siblings and friends. Other activities included still writing stewardship materials, wood working, gardening, fishing, puttering in the yard so he could visit with passersby, continuing theological discussions and sharing faith times with old and new friends. 

David was released from much pain to be with our Savior October 22, 2023. 

Those who predeceased him were his parents, his sister Doris, nephews, Michael Kuerschner and Bradley Meech and sister-in-law, Betsy Holste.

Those left to enjoy memories are PeggyJean, Jonathan, Jeffrey, Jenienne (Jason); grandchildren Jonathan II (Shalee), Joseph "Joey" Kuerschner, Lucas and Louis Gabathuler; great grandchild, Ben; god children Jan Flores, Joel Kuerschner, Bryan Meech, Nathan Kuerschner and Nikki Haas; siblings Victor (Dorothy), Vernon (Valeria), John (Shirley), Edwin (Patricia) Kuerschner; many nieces, nephews and spouses, relatives and friends.

Memorial designations: Mission Central, Mapleton, lowa, Concordia Academy, Roseville, Minnesota, Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri, Holy Cross Lutheran Church Endowment Fund, O'Fallon, Missouri, or donor's choice.

Remembrance Service at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Atwood, KS, November 5, 2023, with visitation at 1:30 p.m., service at 2:30 p.m. and interment at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Ludell, Kansas. 

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

<h2>David Walter Kuerschner</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698685463834.jpeg" alt="David Walter Kuerschner" />
 <figcaption>David Walter Kuerschner</figcaption>
 </figure>July 13, 1945 - October 22, 2023David Walter Kuerschner, the fifth child of Reverend Edwin M. and Olivia B (Krueger) was born July 13, 1945 in Ladysmith, Wisconsin. His at-home baptism occurred on August 12 with confirmation of that vow on March 22, 1959, at Trinity Lutheran, North Morristown, Minnesota. At three years of age, Dave determined he would be a pastor. The majority of his formal education reflected this goal beginning at the Lutheran Day School, North Morristown, Concordia Academy and College (St. Paul, Minnesota), Concordia Senior College (Fort Wayne, Indiana) and Concordia Seminary (St. Louis, Missouri - Masters of Divinity degree, 1971) completed the pastoral education. His love of singing was evident in all of his participation in all of the Concordia choirs.While at Concordia College, Dave met PeggyJean Holste. They were married on June 9, 1968, Ludell, Kansas. God blessed this union with three children: Jonathan Kirk ('75), Jeffrey Kristof ('80) and Jenienne Kim ('82). After completing his vicarage year at Bethel, Middleberg Heights, Ohio and seminary graduation, Dave was called to Holy Trinity, Lakeview, Michigan, where he served for nine plus years. Other parishes he served were Zion, Staunton, Illinois and Immanuel, Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 1992, Cargill Associates (a para church company) approached Dave to be a church consultant. Six years later he was asked to do this work for Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod as Vice President of Agency Services. As part of the "umbrella" of Lutheran Church Extension Fund, he later became VP of Capital Funding Services. During this time, he ministered to 41 congregations and 36 agencies, programs at 56 and 48 respectively. Retirement in 2011 brought many joys. First and foremost was time spent with adult children and grandchildren, siblings and friends. Other activities included still writing stewardship materials, wood working, gardening, fishing, puttering in the yard so he could visit with passersby, continuing theological discussions and sharing faith times with old and new friends. David was released from much pain to be with our Savior October 22, 2023. Those who predeceased him were his parents, his sister Doris, nephews, Michael Kuerschner and Bradley Meech and sister-in-law, Betsy Holste.Those left to enjoy memories are PeggyJean, Jonathan, Jeffrey, Jenienne (Jason); grandchildren Jonathan II (Shalee), Joseph "Joey" Kuerschner, Lucas and Louis Gabathuler; great grandchild, Ben; god children Jan Flores, Joel Kuerschner, Bryan Meech, Nathan Kuerschner and Nikki Haas; siblings Victor (Dorothy), Vernon (Valeria), John (Shirley), Edwin (Patricia) Kuerschner; many nieces, nephews and spouses, relatives and friends.Memorial designations: Mission Central, Mapleton, lowa, Concordia Academy, Roseville, Minnesota, Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri, Holy Cross Lutheran Church Endowment Fund, O'Fallon, Missouri, or donor's choice.Remembrance Service at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Atwood, KS, November 5, 2023, with visitation at 1:30 p.m., service at 2:30 p.m. and interment at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Ludell, Kansas. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Obituaries