Mary Rose (Cannon) Ernst-Reinhardt, 84, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Friday, August 9, 2024 at the Russell Regional Hospital.
Mary was born December 2, 1939, in Emporia, Kansas. She was the daughter of Glenn and Hattie Jane (Harlan) Cannon. She grew up in Madison, Kansas until the seventh grade when her family moved to Russell. She graduated from Russell High School in the Class of ’57.
Mary was united in marriage to Lionel Ernst on December 22, 1957. They made their home in the Russell, Hays, Kansas, and Sydney, Nebraska areas. This union was blessed with four children; Greg, Kay Lynn, Joseph and Julie Ann. Lionel preceded her in death on May 29, 1984. Later she was united in marriage to Doanld Reinhardt on February 14, 1990 in Mesa, Arizona. They became “snowbirds” and spent their time in Russell and Zapata, Texas. Donald preceded her in death on October 9, 2020.
Mary was a devoted wife and homemaker for her family. She also was a farmer’s wife, helping Donald on the farm. She also worked in the office for Dr. Sam for over 15 years. She was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church and Martha’s Circle. She later was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She was a member of the Russell V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary, the Red Hat Ladies and the Daughters of American Revolution (DAR). She enjoyed quilting, cooking and baking, playing cards and attending family gatherings.
Mary’s surviving family includes her daughter, Kay Lynn Ickler (Steve) of Russell, Kansas; son, Joseph “Joe” Ernst (Tessa) of Wilson, Kansas; 9 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandson.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; daughter, Julie Ann Honas; son, Greg Ernst; brother, William Howard Cannon; sisters, Anna Mae Miller and Martha Helen Relph; grandson, Luke Ernst; and great grandson, Cael Evans.
Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, August 15, 2024 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell. Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Memorial has been established with the Russell V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.