Ferdinand “Fred” Werth, Jr., 85, died November 13, 2023, at The Arbors, Hutchinson. He was born October 3, 1938, in La Crosse, to Ferdinand and Lidwina Lydia (Hepp) Werth, Sr.

Fred graduated from Great Bend High School in 1958 and served in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1965. During his service in the Navy, Fred designed and built bombing range targets. &nbsp;He retired as a welder with Krause Plow in South Hutchinson. 

Fred enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, camping, woodworking, his Harley Davidson, and working on his Chevy truck. 

He was a devout Catholic, attending Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, South Hutchinson. Fred also participated yearly in the Hutchinson Christmas Parade Toys for Tots Motorcycle Drive.&nbsp;

Fred married Virginia “Ginger” Stutzman in November 2003. &nbsp;She passed away April 28, 2020.

Fred is survived by his brother, Vernon (Diana) Werth of Colorado; his children, Katherine (Eugene) Wilbourn of Oklahoma and Michael J (Misty) Werth of Kansas; stepsons John (Amanda) and Chris (Gayle) Stutzman of Kansas; grandchildren Tiffani (Robert) Glen, Kayla (Aaron) Butler, Megan (Lloyd) Welch, all of Oklahoma, Jesseca (John) Brady of Virginia, Ashley (John) Rios of Texas, Sydney Werth of Arizona, and Jordan Werth of Kansas; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Ferdinand and Lydia Werth; his brother, Robert; and his wife, Ginger.

Rosary will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, November 17, 2023, followed by the funeral liturgy at 10:30 a.m., all at Elliott Mortuary, with both led by Father Eric M. Weldon. The family will greet friends from 9:00 a.m. until service time Friday at Elliott Mortuary. &nbsp;Graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the St. Joseph Cemetery, Liebenthal, KS, with military honors conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Alzheimer Association, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.

<h2>Ferdinand 'Fred' Werth</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700069842476.jpeg" alt="Ferdinand 'Fred' Werth" />
 <figcaption>Ferdinand 'Fred' Werth</figcaption>
 </figure>October 3, 1938 - November 13, 2023Ferdinand “Fred” Werth, Jr., 85, died November 13, 2023, at The Arbors, Hutchinson. He was born October 3, 1938, in La Crosse, to Ferdinand and Lidwina Lydia (Hepp) Werth, Sr.Fred graduated from Great Bend High School in 1958 and served in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1965. During his service in the Navy, Fred designed and built bombing range targets. &nbsp;He retired as a welder with Krause Plow in South Hutchinson. Fred enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, camping, woodworking, his Harley Davidson, and working on his Chevy truck. He was a devout Catholic, attending Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, South Hutchinson. Fred also participated yearly in the Hutchinson Christmas Parade Toys for Tots Motorcycle Drive.&nbsp;Fred married Virginia “Ginger” Stutzman in November 2003. &nbsp;She passed away April 28, 2020.Fred is survived by his brother, Vernon (Diana) Werth of Colorado; his children, Katherine (Eugene) Wilbourn of Oklahoma and Michael J (Misty) Werth of Kansas; stepsons John (Amanda) and Chris (Gayle) Stutzman of Kansas; grandchildren Tiffani (Robert) Glen, Kayla (Aaron) Butler, Megan (Lloyd) Welch, all of Oklahoma, Jesseca (John) Brady of Virginia, Ashley (John) Rios of Texas, Sydney Werth of Arizona, and Jordan Werth of Kansas; and 10 great-grandchildren.Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Ferdinand and Lydia Werth; his brother, Robert; and his wife, Ginger.Rosary will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, November 17, 2023, followed by the funeral liturgy at 10:30 a.m., all at Elliott Mortuary, with both led by Father Eric M. Weldon. The family will greet friends from 9:00 a.m. until service time Friday at Elliott Mortuary. &nbsp;Graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the St. Joseph Cemetery, Liebenthal, KS, with military honors conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Alzheimer Association, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS &nbsp;67501.

Ferdinand 'Fred' Werth

Jeffrey Wayne Hare, 46, of Russell, Kansas, died on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at the Russell Regional Hospital&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jeffrey was born on September 11, 1977, in La Mesa, California, the son of Cindy L. Ford. He grew up in La Mesa until he was 10 years old and moved to Kansas in 1987. He attended school in Haviland Schools in Haviland, Kansas. He moved to Russell, Kansas, in 1994 and made Russell his permanent home.&nbsp;

Jeffrey is survived by his mother Cindy L. Ford of Russell, Kansas; daughter Natasha Hare, sons Ashtyn Hare, Zander Hare and David Hare all of Russell, Kansas and sister Jessica Wagner and husband Tim of Great Bend, Kansas. 

He was preceded in death by his stepfather Justin Ploutz. 

Cremation has been selected by the family and a private burial of the cremains will take place at a later date. 

Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements. 

<h2>Jeffrey W. Hare, Russell</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699380202122.jpeg" alt="Jeffrey W. Hare" />
 <figcaption>Jeffrey W. Hare</figcaption>
 </figure>September 11, 1977 - November 4, 2023Jeffrey Wayne Hare, 46, of Russell, Kansas, died on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at the Russell Regional Hospital&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jeffrey was born on September 11, 1977, in La Mesa, California, the son of Cindy L. Ford. He grew up in La Mesa until he was 10 years old and moved to Kansas in 1987. He attended school in Haviland Schools in Haviland, Kansas. He moved to Russell, Kansas, in 1994 and made Russell his permanent home.&nbsp;Jeffrey is survived by his mother Cindy L. Ford of Russell, Kansas; daughter Natasha Hare, sons Ashtyn Hare, Zander Hare and David Hare all of Russell, Kansas and sister Jessica Wagner and husband Tim of Great Bend, Kansas. He was preceded in death by his stepfather Justin Ploutz. Cremation has been selected by the family and a private burial of the cremains will take place at a later date. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements. Any donations can be sent to Pohlman.

Jeffrey W. Hare

<h2>Wade Stanley Stevens</h2>February 3, 1960 - November 12, 2023<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700056894607.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Wade Stanley Stevens

Dorothy M. Lawn was born on January 17, 1926, in Corning, KS to Douglas and Pearl (Bobbitt) Foster. She passed away November 12, 2023, at Emerald Care Nursing &amp; Rehab in Cozad, NE at the age of 97.

When Dorothy was 1½ years old the family moved by horse-drawn covered wagon to Dresden, KS where she grew up with older siblings Flave, Irene, Maurice (Buster), Elfred and Lucile.

At the age of five she started school and graduated 8th grade receiving her first watch. Dorothy graduated high school in 1943 and later moved to Norton, KS and lived with her sister, Lucile, helping her care for her nephew Stephen while her brother-in-law Howard was in the army, while also working at Stapleton Drug Store as a soda jerk.

In August of 1947 she met John Joe Lawn. Their first date was to the county fair, and they went fishing the next day at the Prairie Dog Creek.

On July 28, 1948, Dorothy and John were married at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Norton, KS. Religion was a great part of Dorothy’s life. Though the years she read the family bible twice.

Dorothy lived in Norton until 1955 before moving to the family farm in Norton County, where she resided before the family moved in 1963 to Norcatur, KS, because the Norton Reservoir was constructed.

While raising her family, Dorothy worked at the Cardinal Café in Norcatur for 20 years. There she cooked, waited on customers, and bussed tables.

In fall of 2004, Dorothy moved back to Norton where she resided until fall of 2017 (after being a longtime resident of Kansas) moving to Gothenburg, NE to be closer to her daughter Patty and family. In 2018 she moved to Emerald Care in Cozad, NE where she resided until she passed.

Dorothy learned to sew and embroidery at an early age by getting ideas from catalogs, creating her own patterns and making clothes for her dolls and for herself. She had an eye for design, making her daughters' dresses, shirts for her sons, pillowcases, dresser scarves and quilts, which she made for her grandkids and great-grandkids until her eyes would no longer let her.

At the age of nine she started collecting salt and pepper shakers and at one time had over 3,000, which included a lot from her brothers while they served in the armed forces. She also collected pens, pencils, and refrigerator magnets.

Dorothy was an avid fan of the Kansas City Royals (baseball) and Kansas Jayhawks (basketball). She also had a sweet tooth for DQ strawberry sundaes that her granddaughters April and August always brought her. Her ideal time was reading the bible, romance novels or doing word searches.

Survivors include her daughters Priscilla Duncan, Aurora, CO; Patricia (Fred) Beachel-Darnall, Gothenburg, NE; Donna Wiscombe, Bradford, Ontario, Canada; Brenda (Gabriel) Palma, Salome, AZ; sons Jim (Lea) and Kevin (Lori) both of Kearney, NE; son-in-law Ed Fowler, Norton, KS.

Grandchildren: Melanie, Joshua, Coleen, Corey, Toby, Aaron, Becky, April, August, Jennifer, Chris, Matthew, Dawn, Lynn, Melisa, Kyle, Samantha, Blake, Lance, Jordan, and Caiden.

Great-grandchildren: Kristofer, Jacob, Hannah, Kenna, Morgan, Lauryn, Madison, Tristan, Marley, Jude, Perry, Jaron, Lily, Joseph, Donovan, Brandon, Hannah, Taylor, Trever, Tiara, Trent, Addison, Keegan, Delaney, Camden, Cody, Elliott, Mitchell, Kristen, Dayton, Preston, Carrington, Katie, Devon, Bresarias, Karis and Sophia.

Great-great-grandchildren: Kalyn, Brodie, Avalon, Elsalyn, Braden and Atlas.

Dorothy’s family was her world. After visits from family and friends she would blow you kisses and tell you “Don’t take any wooden nickels.”

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband John Joe, son John Richard, daughters Marlina and Loretta, son-in-law Michael Duncan, granddaughter Berkly Millan, grandson Michael Beachel and great-granddaughter Mary Jane Hernandez.

Funeral service on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with Father Joshua officiating with burial at the Norton Cemetery. Rosary will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday morning. Visitation will be Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Pauls Funeral Home, Oberlin, KS. Live streaming will be available on the funeral home’s website.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Asera Care, 64152 2nd Ave., Suite 3, Kearney, NE 68847, American Cancer Society, American Heart Assoc., or the charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.paulsfh.com.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Dorothy, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://tree.tributestore.com/?oId=29888579&amp;tag=&amp;tn=FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.878610863.1682958623:GS1.1.1700002867.109.1.1700003033.26.0.0&amp;mtph=1">Tree Store.</a>

<h2>Dorothy M. Lawn</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700003124499.png" alt="Dorothy M. Lawn" />
 <figcaption>Dorothy M. Lawn</figcaption>
 </figure>January 17, 1926 - November 12, 2023Dorothy M. Lawn was born on January 17, 1926, in Corning, KS to Douglas and Pearl (Bobbitt) Foster. She passed away November 12, 2023, at Emerald Care Nursing &amp; Rehab in Cozad, NE at the age of 97.When Dorothy was 1½ years old the family moved by horse-drawn covered wagon to Dresden, KS where she grew up with older siblings Flave, Irene, Maurice (Buster), Elfred and Lucile.At the age of five she started school and graduated 8th grade receiving her first watch. Dorothy graduated high school in 1943 and later moved to Norton, KS and lived with her sister, Lucile, helping her care for her nephew Stephen while her brother-in-law Howard was in the army, while also working at Stapleton Drug Store as a soda jerk.In August of 1947 she met John Joe Lawn. Their first date was to the county fair, and they went fishing the next day at the Prairie Dog Creek.On July 28, 1948, Dorothy and John were married at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Norton, KS. Religion was a great part of Dorothy’s life. Though the years she read the family bible twice.Dorothy lived in Norton until 1955 before moving to the family farm in Norton County, where she resided before the family moved in 1963 to Norcatur, KS, because the Norton Reservoir was constructed.While raising her family, Dorothy worked at the Cardinal Café in Norcatur for 20 years. There she cooked, waited on customers, and bussed tables.In fall of 2004, Dorothy moved back to Norton where she resided until fall of 2017 (after being a longtime resident of Kansas) moving to Gothenburg, NE to be closer to her daughter Patty and family. In 2018 she moved to Emerald Care in Cozad, NE where she resided until she passed.Dorothy learned to sew and embroidery at an early age by getting ideas from catalogs, creating her own patterns and making clothes for her dolls and for herself. She had an eye for design, making her daughters' dresses, shirts for her sons, pillowcases, dresser scarves and quilts, which she made for her grandkids and great-grandkids until her eyes would no longer let her.At the age of nine she started collecting salt and pepper shakers and at one time had over 3,000, which included a lot from her brothers while they served in the armed forces. She also collected pens, pencils, and refrigerator magnets.Dorothy was an avid fan of the Kansas City Royals (baseball) and Kansas Jayhawks (basketball). She also had a sweet tooth for DQ strawberry sundaes that her granddaughters April and August always brought her. Her ideal time was reading the bible, romance novels or doing word searches.Survivors include her daughters Priscilla Duncan, Aurora, CO; Patricia (Fred) Beachel-Darnall, Gothenburg, NE; Donna Wiscombe, Bradford, Ontario, Canada; Brenda (Gabriel) Palma, Salome, AZ; sons Jim (Lea) and Kevin (Lori) both of Kearney, NE; son-in-law Ed Fowler, Norton, KS.Grandchildren: Melanie, Joshua, Coleen, Corey, Toby, Aaron, Becky, April, August, Jennifer, Chris, Matthew, Dawn, Lynn, Melisa, Kyle, Samantha, Blake, Lance, Jordan, and Caiden.Great-grandchildren: Kristofer, Jacob, Hannah, Kenna, Morgan, Lauryn, Madison, Tristan, Marley, Jude, Perry, Jaron, Lily, Joseph, Donovan, Brandon, Hannah, Taylor, Trever, Tiara, Trent, Addison, Keegan, Delaney, Camden, Cody, Elliott, Mitchell, Kristen, Dayton, Preston, Carrington, Katie, Devon, Bresarias, Karis and Sophia.Great-great-grandchildren: Kalyn, Brodie, Avalon, Elsalyn, Braden and Atlas.Numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.Dorothy’s family was her world. After visits from family and friends she would blow you kisses and tell you “Don’t take any wooden nickels.”She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband John Joe, son John Richard, daughters Marlina and Loretta, son-in-law Michael Duncan, granddaughter Berkly Millan, grandson Michael Beachel and great-granddaughter Mary Jane Hernandez.Funeral service on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with Father Joshua officiating with burial at the Norton Cemetery. Rosary will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday morning. Visitation will be Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Pauls Funeral Home, Oberlin, KS. Live streaming will be available on the funeral home’s website.In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Asera Care, 64152 2nd Ave., Suite 3, Kearney, NE 68847, American Cancer Society, American Heart Assoc., or the charity of the donor’s choice.Condolences may be sent to the family at www.paulsfh.com.To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Dorothy, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://tree.tributestore.com/?oId=29888579&amp;tag=&amp;tn=FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.878610863.1682958623:GS1.1.1700002867.109.1.1700003033.26.0.0&amp;mtph=1">Tree Store.</a>

Dorothy M. Lawn

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Rudi, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://tree.tributestore.com/?oId=29888485&amp;tag=&amp;tn=FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.878610863.1682958623:GS1.1.1700002867.109.1.1700002878.49.0.0&amp;mtph=1">Tree Store.</a>

<h2>Rudi Nel</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700002965463.png" alt="Rudi Nel" />
 <figcaption>Rudi Nel</figcaption>
 </figure>September 20, 1972 - November 11, 2023Obituary pending.To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Rudi, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://tree.tributestore.com/?oId=29888485&amp;tag=&amp;tn=FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.878610863.1682958623:GS1.1.1700002867.109.1.1700002878.49.0.0&amp;mtph=1">Tree Store.</a>

Rudi Nel

Candi Mae (Bernard) Wagner, 46, of Russell, Kansas, entered into her eternal rest Monday, November 6, 2023, with her loving family by her side after a courageous battle against cancer.

Candi was born December 17, 1976 in Beloit, Kansas. She was the daughter of Dan E. and Deborah M. (Brummer) Bernard. 

Candi grew up in Beloit until the year of 1987, when her family moved to Russell, Kansas. She graduated from Russell High School in 1995. She then attended Fort Hays State University and obtained a bachelor of science in physical education and a master of science in health and human performance.

Candi was united in marriage to Paul M. Wagner on June 8, 1996 in Russell. This union was blessed with three beautiful children, Jordyn, Jacquelyn and P.J. The family made their home in Russell.

Candi worked with her husband to build their family business, B&amp;P Contract Pumping. She also worked for the Russell County Health Department as a daycare surveyor. Candi was a Red Cross certified swim instructor and lifeguard and had her own business in teaching children in the Russell community and surrounding area how to swim. She also worked for the Russell Elk’s and City of Russell pools. &nbsp;Candi also was RHS tennis coach from 2003–2004.

Candi was a member of St. Mary’s Queen of Angel’s Catholic Church, CYO sponsor and a CCD instructor. She served on the Board of Post Rock Family Services. Candi was elected to the USD 407 Board of Education from 2013 to 2017.

Candi was very active in her children’s activities, supporting them in Russell Booster Club, Safe Night After Prom, 4-H, and FFA, along with the numerous pep rallies and traveling when she could, to attend their many games, camps, and academic fairs. FAMILY was the most important part of her life! At any event or celebration, Candi could always be found camera in hand capturing memories to share with others. 

Candi was also very adventurous! She loved everything from sky diving, camping and fire pits, boating, wake boarding, horseback riding, exercise classes, cooking, to baking. She loved celebrating the holidays, especially Thanksgiving and her favorite, Christmas!

Candi’s surviving family include her husband of 27 years, Paul of the home; daughters Jordyn Rohr(Kaden) and granddaughter Blair Taylor of Hays, Kansas; Jacquelyn Wagner of Russell; son, P.J. Wagner of the home; parents, Dan and Deborah Bernard of Russell; brother, Jeremy Bernard (Lyndi) and niece, Lexi of Wichita, Kansas. &nbsp;

Candi was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Donald and Maxine Brummer; paternal grandfather, Marlin Bernard; parent-in-laws, Paul and Betty Wagner; uncle, Larry Bernard; and nephew, Sean Banks.

Celebration of the Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, December 2, 2023 at St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church of Russell. Burial of ashes will follow at the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Russell. Vigil and rosary will be held at 7:30 p.m., Friday, December 1, 2023 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday December 1, 2023 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary. 

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established as the Candi Wagner Memorial Fund. 

Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of the arrangements.

<h2>Candi M. Wagner, Russell</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700002497525.jpeg" alt="Candi M. Wagner" />
 <figcaption>Candi M. Wagner</figcaption>
 </figure>Candi Mae (Bernard) Wagner, 46, of Russell, Kansas, entered into her eternal rest Monday, November 6, 2023, with her loving family by her side after a courageous battle against cancer.Candi was born December 17, 1976 in Beloit, Kansas. She was the daughter of Dan E. and Deborah M. (Brummer) Bernard. Candi grew up in Beloit until the year of 1987, when her family moved to Russell, Kansas. She graduated from Russell High School in 1995. She then attended Fort Hays State University and obtained a bachelor of science in physical education and a master of science in health and human performance.Candi was united in marriage to Paul M. Wagner on June 8, 1996 in Russell. This union was blessed with three beautiful children, Jordyn, Jacquelyn and P.J. The family made their home in Russell.Candi worked with her husband to build their family business, B&amp;P Contract Pumping. She also worked for the Russell County Health Department as a daycare surveyor. Candi was a Red Cross certified swim instructor and lifeguard and had her own business in teaching children in the Russell community and surrounding area how to swim. She also worked for the Russell Elk’s and City of Russell pools. &nbsp;Candi also was RHS tennis coach from 2003–2004.Candi was a member of St. Mary’s Queen of Angel’s Catholic Church, CYO sponsor and a CCD instructor. She served on the Board of Post Rock Family Services. Candi was elected to the USD 407 Board of Education from 2013 to 2017.Candi was very active in her children’s activities, supporting them in Russell Booster Club, Safe Night After Prom, 4-H, and FFA, along with the numerous pep rallies and traveling when she could, to attend their many games, camps, and academic fairs. FAMILY was the most important part of her life! At any event or celebration, Candi could always be found camera in hand capturing memories to share with others. Candi was also very adventurous! She loved everything from sky diving, camping and fire pits, boating, wake boarding, horseback riding, exercise classes, cooking, to baking. She loved celebrating the holidays, especially Thanksgiving and her favorite, Christmas!Candi’s surviving family include her husband of 27 years, Paul of the home; daughters Jordyn Rohr(Kaden) and granddaughter Blair Taylor of Hays, Kansas; Jacquelyn Wagner of Russell; son, P.J. Wagner of the home; parents, Dan and Deborah Bernard of Russell; brother, Jeremy Bernard (Lyndi) and niece, Lexi of Wichita, Kansas. &nbsp;Candi was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Donald and Maxine Brummer; paternal grandfather, Marlin Bernard; parent-in-laws, Paul and Betty Wagner; uncle, Larry Bernard; and nephew, Sean Banks.Celebration of the Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, December 2, 2023 at St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church of Russell. Burial of ashes will follow at the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Russell. Vigil and rosary will be held at 7:30 p.m., Friday, December 1, 2023 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday December 1, 2023 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established as the Candi Wagner Memorial Fund. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of the arrangements.

Candi M. Wagner

Angela Renee Efken, age 49, passed away November 8, 2023, at Downs Health and Rehab in Downs, KS. She was born September 19, 1974, in Beloit, KS to Melvin and Cynthia (Belles) Efken. 

Survivors include her parents Melvin and Cynthia Efken of Tipton, KS; sisters Selena Efken and children Rachel, Rebecka “Forest”, Elisabeth and Joseph of Manhattan, KS and Felicia Ruffu (Joshua) of Ft. Worth, TX and brother Jason (Meredith) and children Jessamyn and Catrin of Austin, TX.

Private family services will be held at a later date at the Osborne City Cemetery, Osborne, KS.

The family requests memorial contributions be given to Cancer Research and to support veterans and can be sent in care of the mortuary.

To send flowers to the family of Angela, please&nbsp;<a href="http://clarkgashaw-mortuary.tributestore.com/?oId=29891854&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.1.837611060.1682956848:GS1.1.1700002143.97.1.1700002151.52.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

<h2>Angela Renee Efken</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700002273564.png" alt="Angela Renee Efken" />
 <figcaption>Angela Renee Efken</figcaption>
 </figure>September 19, 1974 - November 8, 2023Angela Renee Efken, age 49, passed away November 8, 2023, at Downs Health and Rehab in Downs, KS. She was born September 19, 1974, in Beloit, KS to Melvin and Cynthia (Belles) Efken. She was an LPN.Survivors include her parents Melvin and Cynthia Efken of Tipton, KS; sisters Selena Efken and children Rachel, Rebecka “Forest”, Elisabeth and Joseph of Manhattan, KS and Felicia Ruffu (Joshua) of Ft. Worth, TX and brother Jason (Meredith) and children Jessamyn and Catrin of Austin, TX.Private family services will be held at a later date at the Osborne City Cemetery, Osborne, KS.The family requests memorial contributions be given to Cancer Research and to support veterans and can be sent in care of the mortuary.To send flowers to the family of Angela, please&nbsp;<a href="http://clarkgashaw-mortuary.tributestore.com/?oId=29891854&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.1.837611060.1682956848:GS1.1.1700002143.97.1.1700002151.52.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

Angela Renee Efken

&nbsp;January 25, 1947 - November 13, 2023

Keith Melvin Reed, 76 of Monument, died Monday, November 13, 2023, at the Logan County Hospital, in Oakley, Kansas. He was born January 25, 1947, in Colby, Kansas to Burtis and Zelma (Bever) Reed. 

Keith graduated from Monument High School in 1965 and volunteered for the United States Army in 1966 and served two years. Keith served in Ben Hoa, Vietnam with the 173rd Airborne Brigade. Keith was proud of his service to his country.

On February 17, 1968, Keith married Karen Ann Lee, in Oakley, Kansas. They were blessed with two children, Craig and Lisa. 

Keith began his career as a mechanic and worked at Caterpillar. Keith could make anything run, especially the road grader on Halloween night. 

Keith spent the majority of his life doing what he loved, farming and raising cattle. If he wasn’t farming in the field, he was farming from the road. Keith loved the challenge of raising a crop despite mother nature’s unpredictability. Keith and Karen were honored to receive a conservation award for his efforts to be stewards of the land. 

He volunteered his time serving on the Summers Township Board and also the Thomas County Fair Board.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Burt and Zelma, and his brother, Ron Reed.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; son Craig (Doris) Reed of Salina, Kansas; daughter Lisa (JR) Delzeit of St. Louis, Missouri; eight grandchildren, Corey, Tanner, Jake and Elliana Reed, Nickolas, Emily, Jack and Ava Delzeit; one great-grandchild, Jackson Reed; brother Robert (Kay) Reed; sister Kathy Reed; sister-in-law Virginia Reed; niece, Cyndi Circle; and two nephews, Eric Reed and Steven Reed (along with their families).

Visitation will take place from 5-7:00p.m. Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley, KS. Funeral Service will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at the United Christian Church, Oakley, KS with burial in the Oakley City Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, P.O. Box 391, Colby, KS 67701 or Oakley VFW Post 2981. 

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

<h2>Keith Melvin Reed, Monument</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699912666568.jpeg" alt="Keith Melvin Reed" />
 <figcaption>Keith Melvin Reed</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;January 25, 1947 - November 13, 2023Keith Melvin Reed, 76 of Monument, died Monday, November 13, 2023, at the Logan County Hospital, in Oakley, Kansas. He was born January 25, 1947, in Colby, Kansas to Burtis and Zelma (Bever) Reed. Keith graduated from Monument High School in 1965 and volunteered for the United States Army in 1966 and served two years. Keith served in Ben Hoa, Vietnam with the 173rd Airborne Brigade. Keith was proud of his service to his country.On February 17, 1968, Keith married Karen Ann Lee, in Oakley, Kansas. They were blessed with two children, Craig and Lisa. Keith began his career as a mechanic and worked at Caterpillar. Keith could make anything run, especially the road grader on Halloween night. Keith spent the majority of his life doing what he loved, farming and raising cattle. If he wasn’t farming in the field, he was farming from the road. Keith loved the challenge of raising a crop despite mother nature’s unpredictability. Keith and Karen were honored to receive a conservation award for his efforts to be stewards of the land. He volunteered his time serving on the Summers Township Board and also the Thomas County Fair Board.Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Burt and Zelma, and his brother, Ron Reed.He is survived by his wife, Karen; son Craig (Doris) Reed of Salina, Kansas; daughter Lisa (JR) Delzeit of St. Louis, Missouri; eight grandchildren, Corey, Tanner, Jake and Elliana Reed, Nickolas, Emily, Jack and Ava Delzeit; one great-grandchild, Jackson Reed; brother Robert (Kay) Reed; sister Kathy Reed; sister-in-law Virginia Reed; niece, Cyndi Circle; and two nephews, Eric Reed and Steven Reed (along with their families).Visitation will take place from 5-7:00p.m. Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley, KS. Funeral Service will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at the United Christian Church, Oakley, KS with burial in the Oakley City Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, P.O. Box 391, Colby, KS 67701 or Oakley VFW Post 2981. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Keith Melvin Reed

Mary Louise Valdez passed away on November 9, 2023, at Prairie Senior Living Center in Colby, Kansas. She was born in the village of Roy, New Mexico on June 14, 1930, to Dolores (Lola) and Rogerio Valdez. She was the eldest of five children: Edward (Pepper), Martha, John and Taylor Jr.

Mary graduated from Roy High School in 1948 and then married Jose (Joe) Ornelas from the neighboring community of Mills. They moved to Colorado while Joe was still in Korea in the U.S. Army and made a life there with their four children, Evangeline, James, Kathleen and Yvonne.

Mary worked many jobs including Goodwill, Beth Israel hospital and Denver General doing housekeeping. After she and Joe divorced, she continued cleaning houses and later went to work cleaning the 18th floor of the United Bank Center when it was first built. From that job, she made many friends and work connections and would clean houses during the day and go to her job at the United Bank Center at night.

Mary had a wonderful sense of humor, quick wit, loved to laugh and make others laugh as well. One of her favorite things to do was to visit friends and have long visits over coffee. She also loved reading Danielle Steele novels, jigsaw puzzles, thrift stores, yard selling, and she loved to dance. 

When she could, she would go to the Aeroplane Club in Denver and go dancing. That is where she met her second husband, Arthur Cabral in 1984 and they would go dancing as often as they could. They got married in Raton, NM and bought a house back in Denver. Mary went to work for Atlas Metal and Iron as the resident housekeeper and Art worked as a welder. Again, she made many friends with the owners, their families and co-workers. 

Everyone loved Mary as her personality radiated friendliness and good nature. Mary also had a soft and generous heart. If she saw a need and she had the means, she would fill it without hesitation.

In 2004, Mary and Art decided to retire for good and moved to Goodland, Kansas where they traveled in their RV to various places to camp, fish and visit far away family. In 2008, Art passed away and Mary spent her time reading, watching Andy Griffith re-runs and visiting with new friends over coffee and with old friends on the phone for hours. 

In 2013, Mary was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The disease progressed to a point where she couldn’t be at home anymore and was moved into a nursing home, a year after the sudden death of her son, James in 2016.

Preceding her in death were her parents, her first husband, Joe; brothers Taylor (Junior), Johnny and Edward (Pepper); sister Martha; her second husband, Arthur; her son, James; and grandson, Anthony.

She leaves behind three daughters, 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and a legacy of love, laughter and a giving heart. 

A Celebration of Life, followed by inurnment, will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 2, 2023, at Crown Hill Mortuary and Cemetery, Wheatridge, CO. 

<h2>Mary Louise Cabral</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700001638125.jpeg" alt="Mary Louise Cabral" />
 <figcaption>Mary Louise Cabral</figcaption>
 </figure>June 14, 1930 - November 9, 2023Mary Louise Valdez passed away on November 9, 2023, at Prairie Senior Living Center in Colby, Kansas. She was born in the village of Roy, New Mexico on June 14, 1930, to Dolores (Lola) and Rogerio Valdez. She was the eldest of five children: Edward (Pepper), Martha, John and Taylor Jr.Mary graduated from Roy High School in 1948 and then married Jose (Joe) Ornelas from the neighboring community of Mills. They moved to Colorado while Joe was still in Korea in the U.S. Army and made a life there with their four children, Evangeline, James, Kathleen and Yvonne.Mary worked many jobs including Goodwill, Beth Israel hospital and Denver General doing housekeeping. After she and Joe divorced, she continued cleaning houses and later went to work cleaning the 18th floor of the United Bank Center when it was first built. From that job, she made many friends and work connections and would clean houses during the day and go to her job at the United Bank Center at night.Mary had a wonderful sense of humor, quick wit, loved to laugh and make others laugh as well. One of her favorite things to do was to visit friends and have long visits over coffee. She also loved reading Danielle Steele novels, jigsaw puzzles, thrift stores, yard selling, and she loved to dance. When she could, she would go to the Aeroplane Club in Denver and go dancing. That is where she met her second husband, Arthur Cabral in 1984 and they would go dancing as often as they could. They got married in Raton, NM and bought a house back in Denver. Mary went to work for Atlas Metal and Iron as the resident housekeeper and Art worked as a welder. Again, she made many friends with the owners, their families and co-workers. Everyone loved Mary as her personality radiated friendliness and good nature. Mary also had a soft and generous heart. If she saw a need and she had the means, she would fill it without hesitation.In 2004, Mary and Art decided to retire for good and moved to Goodland, Kansas where they traveled in their RV to various places to camp, fish and visit far away family. In 2008, Art passed away and Mary spent her time reading, watching Andy Griffith re-runs and visiting with new friends over coffee and with old friends on the phone for hours. In 2013, Mary was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The disease progressed to a point where she couldn’t be at home anymore and was moved into a nursing home, a year after the sudden death of her son, James in 2016.Preceding her in death were her parents, her first husband, Joe; brothers Taylor (Junior), Johnny and Edward (Pepper); sister Martha; her second husband, Arthur; her son, James; and grandson, Anthony.She leaves behind three daughters, 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and a legacy of love, laughter and a giving heart. A Celebration of Life, followed by inurnment, will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 2, 2023, at Crown Hill Mortuary and Cemetery, Wheatridge, CO. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mary Louise Cabral

Ora Mae's Life Story (written by Ora Mae)

I was born into the family of Carroll Earl Kennedy and Olive Blanche (Lee) Kennedy on December 17, 1931, who already had four children. Carroll Earl Jr. (Ken) was the oldest, then Ilene Ardelia, Roma Lee and Olive Ruth, then me! I’m not sure they were real pleased when I popped out – another girl!)

We were living in Hunter, Kansas at the time and Daddy ran a grocery store – Momma helped there some – I don’t know how much – but we had a “hired girl” who stayed with us when Momma wasn’t home, and she would sing songs to us. They were sad songs. “The East Bound Train Was Crowded”, “A Vine Covered Shack”, “Letter Edged in Black” and so on – and I would lay on the shelf under the table and cry and cry. We were still living in Hunter when one morning we were all told that we had another sister – she was supposed to be Daniel Josephus LDS after Grandpa Kennedy – but she was Doris Jean instead (another girl).

It was during the dust storm days – and that was bad enough! But all of us kids managed to get the measles at the same time during a real bad dust storm. Momma had to hang wet towels up to the window to keep the dust from coming in around the windows.

I remember there was a “Billy Goat” in town and every time I went to town – that “Billy Goat” would chase me up the stairs beside the grocery store! We kids were playing “Hide &amp; Seek” and I hid on the floor in the back seat of our car – but they didn’t have to look for me because there was broken glass on the floor from the accident that had happened when Daddy and Mommy had gone to the World’s Fair in Topeka. Anyway, as you can imagine. I yelled real loud when I knelt on the floor.

I don’t know when Daddy opened a store in Abilene so of course we moved to Abilene – I can’t remember too much about living there but it was a bad time for our family because Daddy lost the store, so Momma made handmade men’s neckties and the older kids had to sell them. It was while Momma was making the ties, Ruth was giving me a bath in the washtub in the kitchen and Ruth said If I didn’t sit still, she would pour hot water on my head and I must have not sat still because she took the tea kettle from the stove and poured that water on my head!

I did attend kindergarten in Abilene; however, I only attended one day because some little boy teased me because I didn’t get my picture all done!! So, I wouldn’t go back – I guess that was not a good deal because that was during the time Momma was making ties and that was the least of their worries.

Shortly after that we moved to Colby where Daddy and Momma ran a feed and grain store or something like that. I remember very little about school in Colby except I guess the 1st grade teacher thought I should take the first grade over, but the 2nd grade teacher said she would help me! But I should have stayed in the 1st grade!! We lived in three different homes while in Colby – the last two houses were closer to the railroad tracks (which was where the folks worked) and we always walked to school. When I started 5th grade we moved to Ogden, Kansas because Daddy had a job at Fort Riley. It was a small town close to the base. I enjoyed school there because the 5th and 6th grade were in the same room, so I really learned 6th grade twice!!

That was when we first started going to church more – at least I remember. That was when I realized I needed Jesus. The speaker was from the Christian Bible College in Manhattan, Kansas. I wanted to go forward, but I thought everyone would think it was awful – because my daddy was the Sunday School superintendent, and I should have already been a Christian! Anyway, I was baptized in the Christian Church in Junction City, Kansas.

We moved to Manhattan, Kansas the summer before my 7th grade, which made it easy for me because everyone came from different grade schools to the Jr. High building. This was when I became interested in singing and I was accepted into “The Robed Choir” with my two good friends in high school. We thought we were so good because 9th graders were not usually in “The Robed Choir.” My folks let me take voice lessons and I was told I was ready for solo work. Ha! Ha!

Between my junior and senior year in high school, Daddy was transferred from Fort Riley to Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka. My folks let me continue voice lessons in Topeka – well that was a BLOW. I wasn’t standing properly nor breathing correctly, so basically, I started from the beginning again!! Since I had planned on going to K-State had we stayed in Manhattan, I had only two classes to take to finish high school. So, at Topeka High, I took “Retail Selling” and worked downtown in the afternoons.

We attended the Topeka Bible Church. That is when I met two girls who also just moved to Topeka. Ruth and I and Faye and Virginia Moore started singing double duets. Sometimes it was more giggling than singing.

After I graduated from Topeka High in 1949, I had decided I wanted to go to Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. But I had to wait until January 1950 because I had to be 18 before I could be accepted. Roma Lee met me at the train station and went with me to Moody. But since I didn’t speak to anyone and of course they were all new – the new students had to be there early for orientation. Anyway after supper I called Roma Lee, who was attending Wheaton College, I told her I wanted to go home because “no one spoke to me.” So she called a friend that she had known at Moody and he called his girlfriend and she and some of her girls came to my room. They helped me with my trunk to my room, so I was fine then. I didn’t do real well because my roommate Geraldine Ruhl and I played “ping-pong” most of the time. I really only attended Moody about three terms when my thyroid started me shaking real bad. I’d get up in conducting class and they couldn’t tell too well if I was conducting or just shaking, so the school nurse put me on the phenobarbital four times a day, then something else to keep me awake in class! So, when I went home for Christmas, Roma Lee insisted I go see the doctor! I did and had my thyroid removed with radioactive iodine. Because Moody was changing from term basis to semester, and I would have had to start all over most of my classes, I never continued.

I worked at “Pelletier’s Department Store” which is where I worked during high school for Retail Selling until I started as a draftsman at Southwest Bell Telephone company. My supervisor had a nervous breakdown (no, I don’t think it was my fault). I learned after I married, he was a distant relative of Grandma Inez – he was Ralph Wing and his wife came to our home when we had the Wing reunion.

I met Darrol Irby at Roma Lee’s wedding in Bogue (She had helped open the hospital in WaKeeney and met Don Irby). Shortly after their wedding, Darrol started going to K.U. Medical Center to have surgery on his lip and mouth. He always stopped in Topeka. To make a long story short we were married in the First Baptist Church in Topeka on October 17, 1964, and moved to the farm south of Bogue.

Needless to say – I had never even tried to learn to cook nor had I ever lived on a farm before!! Poor Darrol!! But he never complained – even when he would come home for dinner and find the “slow cooker” sitting in the snow with the dinner burnt!!

Our first daughter, Sara, was born October 1, 1955; on July 28, 1957, our second daughter Janet was born; on October 15, 1960, our third daughter Christina was born; on November 15, 1961, our first son, Siegle was born. Darrol was so excited when he called my folks, to let them know – the nurse said he really didn’t need a phone. And again, on July 13, 1963, Murlin was born. Darrol remodeled our four-room home into a nine-room home with a half-basement recreation room. Darrol passed away on November 12, 1997. 

A lot of changes happened. Siegle moved home to help me keep things going, but in 2008 we had a chance to sell the farm and pay off the bank and still have enough to buy a home in Bogue. Murlin bought 20 acres(?) where the house and outbuildings are. I bought a nice three-bedroom home at 405 9th Street in Bogue which has been a good home for me.

Ora Mae Kennedy Irby died November 11, 2023, surrounded by family. She was born December 17, 1931, to Carrol Earl Kennedy and Olive Blanche Lee Kennedy in Hunter, Kansas. 

After graduating from Topeka High in 1949, she attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois. Because of illness, she was only in Moody for about five terms. 

She worked in the Pelletier Department Store until she worked as a draftsman at Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in Topeka. 

She married Darrol Wayne Irby on October 17, 1954, in Topeka. 

After their five children were grown, she started working part-time as a substitute at Bogue Grade School and worked as an outreach instructor for Colby Community College, teaching basic education to mentally handicapped adults at the Kobler Center in Hill City. She retired after working for 25 years.

She was a member of the Bogue Community United Methodist Church. Music was very important to her, and she helped with the choir for many years, serving many different committees helping youth choir, teaching Bible studies, and a member of U.M.W. in which she held a district office. Ora Mae was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, T.P.M. Church, Bridge Club and Pinochle Club. Ora Mae loved her Lord, her family, and her music.

She is survived by her five children: Sara (Bill) Seller of Oberlin, Janet (Darel) Reynolds of Agra, Christina (Craig, deceased) Green of Livingston, Tennessee, Siegle (Clint) Irby-Duncan of Bogue, and Murlin (Joy) Irby of Bogue; 15 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; a sister, Ruth Norsworthy of Raleigh, North Carolina; and sister-in-law Lois Kennedy of Manhattan.

Ora Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Darrol Irby; parents, Carroll Earl and Olive Branch Kennedy; mother-in-law, Inez Irby; brother, Ken Kennedy; sisters, Doris Woods, Roma Lee Irby, Ilene Wallace; and grandson, Andrew Green.

To&nbsp;<a href="http://stinemetz-funeral-home-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29866295&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.653740999.1682956485:GS1.1.1699744232.127.1.1699744806.60.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://stinemetz-funeral-home-inc.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29866295&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.653740999.1682956485:GS1.1.1699744232.127.1.1699744806.60.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Ora, please&nbsp;<a href="http://stinemetz-funeral-home-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29866295&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.653740999.1682956485:GS1.1.1699744232.127.1.1699744806.60.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

<h2>Ora Mae Irby</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699912210507.png" alt="Ora Mae Irby" />
 <figcaption>Ora Mae Irby</figcaption>
 </figure>December 17, 1931 - November 11, 2023Ora Mae's Life Story (written by Ora Mae)I was born into the family of Carroll Earl Kennedy and Olive Blanche (Lee) Kennedy on December 17, 1931, who already had four children. Carroll Earl Jr. (Ken) was the oldest, then Ilene Ardelia, Roma Lee and Olive Ruth, then me! I’m not sure they were real pleased when I popped out – another girl!)We were living in Hunter, Kansas at the time and Daddy ran a grocery store – Momma helped there some – I don’t know how much – but we had a “hired girl” who stayed with us when Momma wasn’t home, and she would sing songs to us. They were sad songs. “The East Bound Train Was Crowded”, “A Vine Covered Shack”, “Letter Edged in Black” and so on – and I would lay on the shelf under the table and cry and cry. We were still living in Hunter when one morning we were all told that we had another sister – she was supposed to be Daniel Josephus LDS after Grandpa Kennedy – but she was Doris Jean instead (another girl).It was during the dust storm days – and that was bad enough! But all of us kids managed to get the measles at the same time during a real bad dust storm. Momma had to hang wet towels up to the window to keep the dust from coming in around the windows.I remember there was a “Billy Goat” in town and every time I went to town – that “Billy Goat” would chase me up the stairs beside the grocery store! We kids were playing “Hide &amp; Seek” and I hid on the floor in the back seat of our car – but they didn’t have to look for me because there was broken glass on the floor from the accident that had happened when Daddy and Mommy had gone to the World’s Fair in Topeka. Anyway, as you can imagine. I yelled real loud when I knelt on the floor.I don’t know when Daddy opened a store in Abilene so of course we moved to Abilene – I can’t remember too much about living there but it was a bad time for our family because Daddy lost the store, so Momma made handmade men’s neckties and the older kids had to sell them. It was while Momma was making the ties, Ruth was giving me a bath in the washtub in the kitchen and Ruth said If I didn’t sit still, she would pour hot water on my head and I must have not sat still because she took the tea kettle from the stove and poured that water on my head!I did attend kindergarten in Abilene; however, I only attended one day because some little boy teased me because I didn’t get my picture all done!! So, I wouldn’t go back – I guess that was not a good deal because that was during the time Momma was making ties and that was the least of their worries.Shortly after that we moved to Colby where Daddy and Momma ran a feed and grain store or something like that. I remember very little about school in Colby except I guess the 1st grade teacher thought I should take the first grade over, but the 2nd grade teacher said she would help me! But I should have stayed in the 1st grade!! We lived in three different homes while in Colby – the last two houses were closer to the railroad tracks (which was where the folks worked) and we always walked to school. When I started 5th grade we moved to Ogden, Kansas because Daddy had a job at Fort Riley. It was a small town close to the base. I enjoyed school there because the 5th and 6th grade were in the same room, so I really learned 6th grade twice!!That was when we first started going to church more – at least I remember. That was when I realized I needed Jesus. The speaker was from the Christian Bible College in Manhattan, Kansas. I wanted to go forward, but I thought everyone would think it was awful – because my daddy was the Sunday School superintendent, and I should have already been a Christian! Anyway, I was baptized in the Christian Church in Junction City, Kansas.We moved to Manhattan, Kansas the summer before my 7th grade, which made it easy for me because everyone came from different grade schools to the Jr. High building. This was when I became interested in singing and I was accepted into “The Robed Choir” with my two good friends in high school. We thought we were so good because 9th graders were not usually in “The Robed Choir.” My folks let me take voice lessons and I was told I was ready for solo work. Ha! Ha!Between my junior and senior year in high school, Daddy was transferred from Fort Riley to Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka. My folks let me continue voice lessons in Topeka – well that was a BLOW. I wasn’t standing properly nor breathing correctly, so basically, I started from the beginning again!! Since I had planned on going to K-State had we stayed in Manhattan, I had only two classes to take to finish high school. So, at Topeka High, I took “Retail Selling” and worked downtown in the afternoons.We attended the Topeka Bible Church. That is when I met two girls who also just moved to Topeka. Ruth and I and Faye and Virginia Moore started singing double duets. Sometimes it was more giggling than singing.After I graduated from Topeka High in 1949, I had decided I wanted to go to Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. But I had to wait until January 1950 because I had to be 18 before I could be accepted. Roma Lee met me at the train station and went with me to Moody. But since I didn’t speak to anyone and of course they were all new – the new students had to be there early for orientation. Anyway after supper I called Roma Lee, who was attending Wheaton College, I told her I wanted to go home because “no one spoke to me.” So she called a friend that she had known at Moody and he called his girlfriend and she and some of her girls came to my room. They helped me with my trunk to my room, so I was fine then. I didn’t do real well because my roommate Geraldine Ruhl and I played “ping-pong” most of the time. I really only attended Moody about three terms when my thyroid started me shaking real bad. I’d get up in conducting class and they couldn’t tell too well if I was conducting or just shaking, so the school nurse put me on the phenobarbital four times a day, then something else to keep me awake in class! So, when I went home for Christmas, Roma Lee insisted I go see the doctor! I did and had my thyroid removed with radioactive iodine. Because Moody was changing from term basis to semester, and I would have had to start all over most of my classes, I never continued.I worked at “Pelletier’s Department Store” which is where I worked during high school for Retail Selling until I started as a draftsman at Southwest Bell Telephone company. My supervisor had a nervous breakdown (no, I don’t think it was my fault). I learned after I married, he was a distant relative of Grandma Inez – he was Ralph Wing and his wife came to our home when we had the Wing reunion.I met Darrol Irby at Roma Lee’s wedding in Bogue (She had helped open the hospital in WaKeeney and met Don Irby). Shortly after their wedding, Darrol started going to K.U. Medical Center to have surgery on his lip and mouth. He always stopped in Topeka. To make a long story short we were married in the First Baptist Church in Topeka on October 17, 1964, and moved to the farm south of Bogue.Needless to say – I had never even tried to learn to cook nor had I ever lived on a farm before!! Poor Darrol!! But he never complained – even when he would come home for dinner and find the “slow cooker” sitting in the snow with the dinner burnt!!Our first daughter, Sara, was born October 1, 1955; on July 28, 1957, our second daughter Janet was born; on October 15, 1960, our third daughter Christina was born; on November 15, 1961, our first son, Siegle was born. Darrol was so excited when he called my folks, to let them know – the nurse said he really didn’t need a phone. And again, on July 13, 1963, Murlin was born. Darrol remodeled our four-room home into a nine-room home with a half-basement recreation room. Darrol passed away on November 12, 1997. A lot of changes happened. Siegle moved home to help me keep things going, but in 2008 we had a chance to sell the farm and pay off the bank and still have enough to buy a home in Bogue. Murlin bought 20 acres(?) where the house and outbuildings are. I bought a nice three-bedroom home at 405 9th Street in Bogue which has been a good home for me.ObituaryOra Mae Kennedy Irby died November 11, 2023, surrounded by family. She was born December 17, 1931, to Carrol Earl Kennedy and Olive Blanche Lee Kennedy in Hunter, Kansas. After graduating from Topeka High in 1949, she attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois. Because of illness, she was only in Moody for about five terms. She worked in the Pelletier Department Store until she worked as a draftsman at Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in Topeka. She married Darrol Wayne Irby on October 17, 1954, in Topeka. After their five children were grown, she started working part-time as a substitute at Bogue Grade School and worked as an outreach instructor for Colby Community College, teaching basic education to mentally handicapped adults at the Kobler Center in Hill City. She retired after working for 25 years.She was a member of the Bogue Community United Methodist Church. Music was very important to her, and she helped with the choir for many years, serving many different committees helping youth choir, teaching Bible studies, and a member of U.M.W. in which she held a district office. Ora Mae was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, T.P.M. Church, Bridge Club and Pinochle Club. Ora Mae loved her Lord, her family, and her music.She is survived by her five children: Sara (Bill) Seller of Oberlin, Janet (Darel) Reynolds of Agra, Christina (Craig, deceased) Green of Livingston, Tennessee, Siegle (Clint) Irby-Duncan of Bogue, and Murlin (Joy) Irby of Bogue; 15 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; a sister, Ruth Norsworthy of Raleigh, North Carolina; and sister-in-law Lois Kennedy of Manhattan.Ora Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Darrol Irby; parents, Carroll Earl and Olive Branch Kennedy; mother-in-law, Inez Irby; brother, Ken Kennedy; sisters, Doris Woods, Roma Lee Irby, Ilene Wallace; and grandson, Andrew Green.To&nbsp;<a href="http://stinemetz-funeral-home-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29866295&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.653740999.1682956485:GS1.1.1699744232.127.1.1699744806.60.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://stinemetz-funeral-home-inc.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29866295&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.653740999.1682956485:GS1.1.1699744232.127.1.1699744806.60.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Ora, please&nbsp;<a href="http://stinemetz-funeral-home-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29866295&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.653740999.1682956485:GS1.1.1699744232.127.1.1699744806.60.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

Ora Mae Irby

Lola M. Hunter, at age 87 in Larned, KS, went to be with her Lord and her late husband, Elton Hunter on his 90th birthday, November 13, 2023. Lola was born to Paul and Flossie Taylor on November 8, 1936, in Osborne County, KS. 

She graduated from Glen Elder High School in 1954.

Lola married Elton Hunter on July 24, 1955, at the Glen Elder Methodist Church, and made her newlywed home on the Hunter family farm 6.5 miles west of Stockton, KS.

Lola and Elton raised three children on the farm until June 1976 when she became a preacher’s wife, supporting Elton in his career change from farmer to being a minister in the United Methodist Church. She lived in the parsonages of Thornburg, Republic, Attica, and Protection, Kansas. After Elton’s retirement from the ministry, Lola and Elton moved back to the family farm. They also served part-time at the Rose Valley Church and would stay at the Rose Valley parsonage on the weekends.

Lola enjoyed painting, working on puzzles, word searches or her coloring books, and reading. Around April 2013, Lola and Elton moved to Stockton after selling the farm. After Elton passed away in 2016, Lola continued to live in Stockton until 2020 when she moved to Country Living assisted living in Larned.

Survivors include her brother Dan Taylor of Salina, KS; sister Kathy Arbogast of Downs, KS; children Diane Hiebert (Dallas) of Rozel, KS, Vicki Strausberg of Wichita, KS, and Dwight Hunter (Gina) of Chattanooga, TN; and grandchildren David Hunter, Amy Hiebert, Dani Hunter, and Duane Hiebert.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brothers Donald, Larry, and Darrell Taylor; and sister Wilma Kogler.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 2 p.m. at the funeral home in Stockton. Visitation will be on Thursday, 5-8 p.m. with the family receiving friends 5-6:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mt. Vernon Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to The Navigators (www.navigators.org) or Gideons International (www.gideons.org/donate) and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.

To&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29891893&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1700000473.143.1.1700000492.41.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29891893&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1700000473.143.1.1700000492.41.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Lola , please&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29891893&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1700000473.143.1.1700000492.41.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

<h2>Lola M. Hunter</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700000576165.png" alt="Lola M. Hunter" />
 <figcaption>Lola M. Hunter</figcaption>
 </figure>November 8, 1936 - November 13, 2023Lola M. Hunter, at age 87 in Larned, KS, went to be with her Lord and her late husband, Elton Hunter on his 90th birthday, November 13, 2023. Lola was born to Paul and Flossie Taylor on November 8, 1936, in Osborne County, KS. She graduated from Glen Elder High School in 1954.Lola married Elton Hunter on July 24, 1955, at the Glen Elder Methodist Church, and made her newlywed home on the Hunter family farm 6.5 miles west of Stockton, KS.Lola and Elton raised three children on the farm until June 1976 when she became a preacher’s wife, supporting Elton in his career change from farmer to being a minister in the United Methodist Church. She lived in the parsonages of Thornburg, Republic, Attica, and Protection, Kansas. After Elton’s retirement from the ministry, Lola and Elton moved back to the family farm. They also served part-time at the Rose Valley Church and would stay at the Rose Valley parsonage on the weekends.Lola enjoyed painting, working on puzzles, word searches or her coloring books, and reading. Around April 2013, Lola and Elton moved to Stockton after selling the farm. After Elton passed away in 2016, Lola continued to live in Stockton until 2020 when she moved to Country Living assisted living in Larned.Survivors include her brother Dan Taylor of Salina, KS; sister Kathy Arbogast of Downs, KS; children Diane Hiebert (Dallas) of Rozel, KS, Vicki Strausberg of Wichita, KS, and Dwight Hunter (Gina) of Chattanooga, TN; and grandchildren David Hunter, Amy Hiebert, Dani Hunter, and Duane Hiebert.She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brothers Donald, Larry, and Darrell Taylor; and sister Wilma Kogler.A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 2 p.m. at the funeral home in Stockton. Visitation will be on Thursday, 5-8 p.m. with the family receiving friends 5-6:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mt. Vernon Cemetery.Memorials are suggested to The Navigators (www.navigators.org) or Gideons International (www.gideons.org/donate) and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.To&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29891893&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1700000473.143.1.1700000492.41.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29891893&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1700000473.143.1.1700000492.41.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Lola , please&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29891893&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1700000473.143.1.1700000492.41.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

Lola M. Hunter

Vera K. Deines, 79, Hays, died Monday, November 13, 2023 at Hays Good Samaritan Society.

She was born September 21, 1944 in Hays, the daughter of Johnie and Matilda (Tegtmeyer) McCoy. 

In 1962, she graduated from Trego High School.&nbsp;

On August 4, 1963, she was united in marriage to Donald D. “Don” Deines in Trego Center, and they were blessed with 52 years of marriage before he preceded her in death on March 4, 2016. 

Vera sold Avon for many years, and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church where she also helped with funeral dinners. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, shopping, playing games, and canning vegetables. She loved her family, especially her grandchildren and her great grandchildren, who affectionally called her “Grammy Great.”

Survivors include her two sons, Todd L. Deines and wife Roxanne of Lenexa and Timothy D. Deines and wife Tabatha of Hays, a daughter, Tammy R. Dreiling and husband John of Hays, her twin sister, Vesta Rohr and husband Dennis of Mandan, ND, a sister-in-law, Darlene McCoy of WaKeeney, seven grandchildren, Curtis Gasper and wife Shelly, Jordan Hecker and husband Caleb, Katelyn Deines, Rochelle Ralston and husband Cameron Haddad, Riane Sasnett and husband Bryan, Rosalie Ralston, and Makayla Deines, eight great-grandchildren, Skylar and Carter Ryan, Cash and Isadora Haddad, Arlo Ralston, Finley Sasnett, Oliver and Layla Gasper, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Don, her brother Kenny McCoy, a grandson, Craig Casper, and a great-granddaughter, Charlie Gasper.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 20, 2023 at Trinity Lutheran Church, with Pastor Brenda Rodger officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery, WaKeeney. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 on Sunday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from 9:00 a.m. until service time on Monday at the church.

 Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church and condolences and memories of Vera may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com.

<h2>Vera K. Deines, Hays</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699994332903.jpeg" alt="Vera Deines" />
 <figcaption>Vera Deines</figcaption>
 </figure>September 21, 1944 - November 13, 2023Vera K. Deines, 79, Hays, died Monday, November 13, 2023 at Hays Good Samaritan Society.She was born September 21, 1944 in Hays, the daughter of Johnie and Matilda (Tegtmeyer) McCoy. In 1962, she graduated from Trego High School.&nbsp;On August 4, 1963, she was united in marriage to Donald D. “Don” Deines in Trego Center, and they were blessed with 52 years of marriage before he preceded her in death on March 4, 2016. Vera sold Avon for many years, and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church where she also helped with funeral dinners. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, shopping, playing games, and canning vegetables. She loved her family, especially her grandchildren and her great grandchildren, who affectionally called her “Grammy Great.”Survivors include her two sons, Todd L. Deines and wife Roxanne of Lenexa and Timothy D. Deines and wife Tabatha of Hays, a daughter, Tammy R. Dreiling and husband John of Hays, her twin sister, Vesta Rohr and husband Dennis of Mandan, ND, a sister-in-law, Darlene McCoy of WaKeeney, seven grandchildren, Curtis Gasper and wife Shelly, Jordan Hecker and husband Caleb, Katelyn Deines, Rochelle Ralston and husband Cameron Haddad, Riane Sasnett and husband Bryan, Rosalie Ralston, and Makayla Deines, eight great-grandchildren, Skylar and Carter Ryan, Cash and Isadora Haddad, Arlo Ralston, Finley Sasnett, Oliver and Layla Gasper, and numerous nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Don, her brother Kenny McCoy, a grandson, Craig Casper, and a great-granddaughter, Charlie Gasper.Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 20, 2023 at Trinity Lutheran Church, with Pastor Brenda Rodger officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery, WaKeeney. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 on Sunday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from 9:00 a.m. until service time on Monday at the church. Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church and condolences and memories of Vera may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com.

Vera K. Deines

Catherine A. Derowitsch, 82, of Belleville, Kansas passed away on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.&nbsp; She was born on October 11, 1941 to Clarence Albert and Fannie Marie (Bates) Williams. She grew up in Belleville, Kansas with her six siblings, Wayne, Robert, Dennis, Donna, Norman, and Nancy.

Catherine attended Belleville schools and graduated from Belleville High School in 1960. 

She then worked her entire career as Belleville City Clerk. She retired in 2004.

She married Kenneth “Cobb” Ketterman in 1972 and gained three children, Steven “Hank”, “Nub”, and Toni.&nbsp; Kenneth and Catherine had a daughter, Linda. After Kenneth’s death in 1978, Catherine went on to marry Billy Derowitsch in 1981, gaining two more children, Cindy and Kevin. They were married for almost 30 years until his death in 2010.

After her retirement Catherine watched her grandchildren, and volunteered at the Stepping Stones Preschool and Awana Youth Group. She delivered Meals on Wheels, helped with the Rocky Pond Christmas Lights, and served for a time on the Belleville City Council. Her favorite and most time consuming activity was watching her grandchildren’s school and sporting events.

She had a strong faith and was a member of the Living Waters Family Church in Courtland, Kansas.

She was generous, spunky, funny, feisty, and witty, cracking jokes even when she was in the hospital.

Catherine loved and will be missed by her children, Linda Thumann (Brett) of Belleville, KS, Cindy Dempster (Richard) of Manhattan, KS, Kevin Derowitsch (Deanna) of Belleville, KS, and Toni (Ketterman) Morrisey of Web City, MO; grandchildren Jason Sorell (Holly), Melissa Shinkle (Jerry), Matthew Sorell (Fiord), John Dempster (Amanda), Rachel Bembry (Derek), Rebecca Poteet (Matt), Richard Dempster, Sarah Edinger (Killian), Samuel Dempster (Anna), Megan Love, Alyssa Millington (Brian), Brenna Finnazzo (Nick), Brady Thumann (Shannon), Shay Thumann, Samson Thumann, Ava Thumann, Randy Ketterman, Brandan Ketterman, Amanda Ketterman, Kelsay Crowder, Jackson Ketterman, and Kristen Ketterman; and 40 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands Kenneth Ketterman, and Billy Derowitsch; children, Steven “Hank” Ketterman and “Nub” Ketterman; grandson, James Sorell; grandson-in-law, Mike Love; and her six siblings.

Catherine chose cremation and a memorial service will take place at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Dwight Garman officiating. Burial will follow at the Belleville City Cemetery. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. before the service.

Memorials are requested to the Catherine Derowitsch Memorial Fund and can be sent in care of the funeral home.

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral home is assisting the Derowitsch family with arrangements.

To order&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/2cb5be34-ab4f-4725-b472-affee45716b4" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Catherine A. Derowitsch, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/2cb5be34-ab4f-4725-b472-affee45716b4" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

<h2>Catherine A. Derowitsch, Belleville</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699993754287.jpeg" alt="Catherine A. Derowitsch" />
 <figcaption>Catherine A. Derowitsch</figcaption>
 </figure>October 11, 1941 - November 14 2023Catherine A. Derowitsch, 82, of Belleville, Kansas passed away on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.&nbsp; She was born on October 11, 1941 to Clarence Albert and Fannie Marie (Bates) Williams. She grew up in Belleville, Kansas with her six siblings, Wayne, Robert, Dennis, Donna, Norman, and Nancy.Catherine attended Belleville schools and graduated from Belleville High School in 1960. She then worked her entire career as Belleville City Clerk. She retired in 2004.She married Kenneth “Cobb” Ketterman in 1972 and gained three children, Steven “Hank”, “Nub”, and Toni.&nbsp; Kenneth and Catherine had a daughter, Linda. After Kenneth’s death in 1978, Catherine went on to marry Billy Derowitsch in 1981, gaining two more children, Cindy and Kevin. They were married for almost 30 years until his death in 2010.After her retirement Catherine watched her grandchildren, and volunteered at the Stepping Stones Preschool and Awana Youth Group. She delivered Meals on Wheels, helped with the Rocky Pond Christmas Lights, and served for a time on the Belleville City Council. Her favorite and most time consuming activity was watching her grandchildren’s school and sporting events.She had a strong faith and was a member of the Living Waters Family Church in Courtland, Kansas.She was generous, spunky, funny, feisty, and witty, cracking jokes even when she was in the hospital.Catherine loved and will be missed by her children, Linda Thumann (Brett) of Belleville, KS, Cindy Dempster (Richard) of Manhattan, KS, Kevin Derowitsch (Deanna) of Belleville, KS, and Toni (Ketterman) Morrisey of Web City, MO; grandchildren Jason Sorell (Holly), Melissa Shinkle (Jerry), Matthew Sorell (Fiord), John Dempster (Amanda), Rachel Bembry (Derek), Rebecca Poteet (Matt), Richard Dempster, Sarah Edinger (Killian), Samuel Dempster (Anna), Megan Love, Alyssa Millington (Brian), Brenna Finnazzo (Nick), Brady Thumann (Shannon), Shay Thumann, Samson Thumann, Ava Thumann, Randy Ketterman, Brandan Ketterman, Amanda Ketterman, Kelsay Crowder, Jackson Ketterman, and Kristen Ketterman; and 40 great-grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands Kenneth Ketterman, and Billy Derowitsch; children, Steven “Hank” Ketterman and “Nub” Ketterman; grandson, James Sorell; grandson-in-law, Mike Love; and her six siblings.Catherine chose cremation and a memorial service will take place at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Dwight Garman officiating. Burial will follow at the Belleville City Cemetery. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. before the service.Memorials are requested to the Catherine Derowitsch Memorial Fund and can be sent in care of the funeral home.Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral home is assisting the Derowitsch family with arrangements.To order&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/2cb5be34-ab4f-4725-b472-affee45716b4" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Catherine A. Derowitsch, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/2cb5be34-ab4f-4725-b472-affee45716b4" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

Catherine A. Derowitsch

David Scott Keil, age 42, of Overland Park, Kansas passed away on November 11, 2023 at HaysMed in Hays, Kansas. He was born on June 11, 1981, in Hays to Curtis Keil and Peggy Eulert and grew up in Paradise, Kansas.

David's passion for culinary arts shaped his path and led him to become an executive chef in the Kansas City at various prestigious restaurants.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, David had a deep love for the outdoors. He reveled in hunting and fishing, finding solace and happiness in the beauty of nature. These hobbies brought him moments of joy and allowed him to connect with the world around him. 

In addition to his career and hobbies, David held dear relationships with his family and friends. He is survived by his loving mother, Peggy Eulert of Paradise, Kansas; brothers, Drew (Crystal) Keil of Overland Park and Owen Keil of Paradise; as well as his significant other, Gela Parrish of Shawnee, Kansas.

David's father Curtis Keil preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be Saturday, November 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory located at 2509 Vine St. in Hays. Private family burial will take place in Fairport, Kansas. Visitation will take place on November 17, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

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

David Scott Keil will be missed immensely by all who have had the pleasure of knowing him. May his memory live on in our hearts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>David Scott Keil, Overland Park</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699993518671.jpeg" alt="David Scott Keil" />
 <figcaption>David Scott Keil</figcaption>
 </figure>June 11, 1981 - November 11, 2023David Scott Keil, age 42, of Overland Park, Kansas passed away on November 11, 2023 at HaysMed in Hays, Kansas. He was born on June 11, 1981, in Hays to Curtis Keil and Peggy Eulert and grew up in Paradise, Kansas.David's passion for culinary arts shaped his path and led him to become an executive chef in the Kansas City at various prestigious restaurants.Beyond his professional accomplishments, David had a deep love for the outdoors. He reveled in hunting and fishing, finding solace and happiness in the beauty of nature. These hobbies brought him moments of joy and allowed him to connect with the world around him. In addition to his career and hobbies, David held dear relationships with his family and friends. He is survived by his loving mother, Peggy Eulert of Paradise, Kansas; brothers, Drew (Crystal) Keil of Overland Park and Owen Keil of Paradise; as well as his significant other, Gela Parrish of Shawnee, Kansas.David's father Curtis Keil preceded him in death.Funeral services will be Saturday, November 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory located at 2509 Vine St. in Hays. Private family burial will take place in Fairport, Kansas. Visitation will take place on November 17, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the funeral home.Memories and words of comfort may be shared on David’s tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.David Scott Keil will be missed immensely by all who have had the pleasure of knowing him. May his memory live on in our hearts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

David Scott Keil

Richard W. 'Rich' Geschwentner, formerly of Ellis

Richard W. “Rich” Geschwentner, 84, Hays, formerly of Ellis, died Sunday, November 12, 2023 at HaysMed.

He was born August 1, 1939 in Ellis, the son of Joseph and Ottilia (Gnad) Geschwentner. 

Rich graduated from Ellis High School, went to a trade school in Colorado, learning electronics repair, and later had a side job doing television and appliance repair. 

On August 1, 1959, he was united in marriage to Faye A. Zimmerman in Schoenchen, and they celebrated 64 years of marriage. 

For 30 years, he was in the grocery store business in Ellis, first as an employee then owning and operating Rich’s IGA from 1977 - 1999. 

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the Ellis Knights of Columbus Council #2133, and the Ellis Chamber of Commerce. 

Rich loved cars, family camping trips at the lake, and animals, especially his dogs and stray cats he would feed. He enjoyed yardwork, music, polka dancing, and playing piano while Faye played the accordion. His greatest love was his family and they meant everything to him.

Survivors include his wife Faye of the home, two sons, Jeff Geschwentner and wife Laura of Ellis and Patrick Geschwentner and wife Wendy of Ottawa, two daughters, Kim Gaschler and husband Rick of Ellis and Kelly Kratz and husband Greg of Lawrence, eight grandchildren, Brandon and Nicholas Geschwentner, Mara Lang and husband Jon, Lindsay Clark and husband Dana, Eric Gaschler and wife Kristen, Moriah and Noah Geschwentner, and Keegan Kratz, seven great-grandchildren, and his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Jeanette Kraft and husband Marvin, Helen Godfrey and husband Dick, Cary Zimmerman and wife Teresa, and Barbara, Roseann, and Jackie Zimmerman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, several infant siblings, and three brothers-in-law, Kenny, Joel, and Jude Zimmerman.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 17, 2023 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Ellis, with Fr. Dana Clark officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 on Thursday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A combined vigil service and Knights of Columbus rosary will be at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. 

Memorials are suggested to St. Mary’s Catholic School, St. Mary’s Church, or to the Ellis Knights of Columbus Council #2133. 

Condolences and memories of Rich may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com.

<h2>Richard W. 'Rich' Geschwentner, formerly of Ellis</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699970687448.jpeg" alt="Richard W. 'Rich' Geschwentner" />
 <figcaption>Richard W. 'Rich' Geschwentner</figcaption>
 </figure>August 1, 1939 - November 12, 2023Richard W. “Rich” Geschwentner, 84, Hays, formerly of Ellis, died Sunday, November 12, 2023 at HaysMed.He was born August 1, 1939 in Ellis, the son of Joseph and Ottilia (Gnad) Geschwentner. Rich graduated from Ellis High School, went to a trade school in Colorado, learning electronics repair, and later had a side job doing television and appliance repair. On August 1, 1959, he was united in marriage to Faye A. Zimmerman in Schoenchen, and they celebrated 64 years of marriage. For 30 years, he was in the grocery store business in Ellis, first as an employee then owning and operating Rich’s IGA from 1977 - 1999. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the Ellis Knights of Columbus Council #2133, and the Ellis Chamber of Commerce. Rich loved cars, family camping trips at the lake, and animals, especially his dogs and stray cats he would feed. He enjoyed yardwork, music, polka dancing, and playing piano while Faye played the accordion. His greatest love was his family and they meant everything to him.Survivors include his wife Faye of the home, two sons, Jeff Geschwentner and wife Laura of Ellis and Patrick Geschwentner and wife Wendy of Ottawa, two daughters, Kim Gaschler and husband Rick of Ellis and Kelly Kratz and husband Greg of Lawrence, eight grandchildren, Brandon and Nicholas Geschwentner, Mara Lang and husband Jon, Lindsay Clark and husband Dana, Eric Gaschler and wife Kristen, Moriah and Noah Geschwentner, and Keegan Kratz, seven great-grandchildren, and his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Jeanette Kraft and husband Marvin, Helen Godfrey and husband Dick, Cary Zimmerman and wife Teresa, and Barbara, Roseann, and Jackie Zimmerman.He was preceded in death by his parents, several infant siblings, and three brothers-in-law, Kenny, Joel, and Jude Zimmerman.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 17, 2023 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Ellis, with Fr. Dana Clark officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 on Thursday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A combined vigil service and Knights of Columbus rosary will be at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to St. Mary’s Catholic School, St. Mary’s Church, or to the Ellis Knights of Columbus Council #2133. Condolences and memories of Rich may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com.

Richard W. 'Rich' Geschwentner

Kenetta Jane Soukup, Norton, KS, passed away quietly in her home, on November 10, 2023, at the age of 48. Kenetta was born to Kenneth and Judith Soukup on August 20, 1975 in Ellsworth, KS. 

Kenetta grew up in Wilson with her siblings. Together they made many memories on the weekends with the family out at Grandma Kate’s. 

In 1994, Kenetta graduated from Wilson High School.

In 1996, Kenetta married Darwin McReynolds, her former husband, and together they welcomed three children - Chelsi, Ashly, and Tyler. Kenetta dedicated her time to her children by staying home with them during their early years.

In 2011, Kenetta met Jeffery Allen. After a few years together, they got married and later moved to Colorado. During their time in Colorado, Kenetta began working at Starbucks. This gave her an outlet for her social energy and allowed her to explore her love of coffee. Sadly, in 2021, Jeff passed away and Kenetta decided to move back to Kansas to be with her family.

Once back in Kansas, Kenetta reconnected with Joe Schwerman. Once they began dating, Joe introduced her to the many hours of Star Wars and her obsession with Baby Yoda started. For the last few years, Kenetta spent as much time as she could making memories and taking care of her grandchildren.

Kenetta was strong-willed and stubborn at times, but she had an enormous heart and cared deeply for everyone in her life. She truly loved everyone, and if you knew her, you knew it.

Kenetta is survived by her children Chelsi (Mark) Muleski of Algona, IA, Ashly McReynolds of Sylvan Grove, KS, and Tyler McReynolds of Norton, KS; three grandchildren, Temperance and Rylee McReynolds and Henry Muleski; her mother Judy Soukup of Wilson, KS; sister Kim (Herbie) Shumaker, nephew Herbie Shumaker III, niece Klaudia Shumaker of Russell KS, and partner Joe Schwerman of Norton, KS.

Kenetta is preceded in death by her late husband Jeffrey Allen; father Kenny Soukup; brothers Kory and Kyle Soukup, and her grandparents.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Wilson. Burial will follow in the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, November 16 with a rosary service at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home in Wilson.

Memorials are suggested to Kenetta Soukup Memorial Fund and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 610 24th Street, Wilson, KS 67490.

<h2>Kenetta Jane Soukup, Norton</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699971571565.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>August 20, 1975 - November 10, 2023Kenetta Jane Soukup, Norton, KS, passed away quietly in her home, on November 10, 2023, at the age of 48. Kenetta was born to Kenneth and Judith Soukup on August 20, 1975 in Ellsworth, KS. Kenetta grew up in Wilson with her siblings. Together they made many memories on the weekends with the family out at Grandma Kate’s. In 1994, Kenetta graduated from Wilson High School.In 1996, Kenetta married Darwin McReynolds, her former husband, and together they welcomed three children - Chelsi, Ashly, and Tyler. Kenetta dedicated her time to her children by staying home with them during their early years.In 2011, Kenetta met Jeffery Allen. After a few years together, they got married and later moved to Colorado. During their time in Colorado, Kenetta began working at Starbucks. This gave her an outlet for her social energy and allowed her to explore her love of coffee. Sadly, in 2021, Jeff passed away and Kenetta decided to move back to Kansas to be with her family.Once back in Kansas, Kenetta reconnected with Joe Schwerman. Once they began dating, Joe introduced her to the many hours of Star Wars and her obsession with Baby Yoda started. For the last few years, Kenetta spent as much time as she could making memories and taking care of her grandchildren.Kenetta was strong-willed and stubborn at times, but she had an enormous heart and cared deeply for everyone in her life. She truly loved everyone, and if you knew her, you knew it.Kenetta is survived by her children Chelsi (Mark) Muleski of Algona, IA, Ashly McReynolds of Sylvan Grove, KS, and Tyler McReynolds of Norton, KS; three grandchildren, Temperance and Rylee McReynolds and Henry Muleski; her mother Judy Soukup of Wilson, KS; sister Kim (Herbie) Shumaker, nephew Herbie Shumaker III, niece Klaudia Shumaker of Russell KS, and partner Joe Schwerman of Norton, KS.Kenetta is preceded in death by her late husband Jeffrey Allen; father Kenny Soukup; brothers Kory and Kyle Soukup, and her grandparents.A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Wilson. Burial will follow in the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, November 16 with a rosary service at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home in Wilson.Memorials are suggested to Kenetta Soukup Memorial Fund and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 610 24th Street, Wilson, KS 67490.

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