Robert L. Stockton was born December 24, 1940, to Leo B. and Neva 
Billings Stockton. He was born in Smith Center, KS and lived in the 
Kensington area for his entire life. He attended Hardilee Rural School, 
Kensington Grade School, and graduated from Kensington High School in 
1958. He attended Fort Hays State University and served in Kansas 
National Guard.
 On June 4, 1961, he married Margaret Rayburn Gilliland in 
Phillipsburg. Their daughter Katherine Ann (“Anne”) was born December 
26, 1965. Sadly she preceded her parents in death in June 1985 at the 
age of nineteen. Margaret passed away October 13, 2009.
 Bob and Margaret were very involved with Anne’s sports and 
activities. They were always very supportive of Anne’s friends and all 
youth in the community.
 Bob was a farmer his entire life. He was a very creative person. He 
could build and fix anything. His projects included beautiful furniture,
 working on farm equipment, doing carpentry and many other things. At 
one point, he built a train from barrels for the children of the 
Kensington community. He loved antique cars and would often participate 
in local parades and car shows. Restoring antique cars was a hobby of 
his.
 Bob is survived by his Sisters, Shirley Powell and Sharlene (John) 
Sampson, Nephews Mike (Ramona) Powell and Gary (Wendy) Powell and Niece 
Sharlyn (Chris) DeWeese. Many members of the Gilliland Family also 
survive him. Bob is survived by his dear dear friends Annette and Tim 
Riley. The Family wants to thank the Rileys (Annette, Tim) and Sherry 
Newbrey for all they have done as friends and caretakers. He was also 
preceded in death by his parents, Infant brother Kenneth (1936), 
Margaret’s parents Edwin and Florence (Dixon) Gilliland, Brother-in- Law
 Jack Powell and many members of the Gilliland Family. Many cousins who 
were dearly loved.

Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Robert-Lee-Stockton?obId=24807983#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652201651358.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Robert L. Stockton was born December 24, 1940, to Leo B. and Neva 
Billings Stockton. He was born in Smith Center, KS and lived in the 
Kensington area for his entire life. He attended Hardilee Rural School, 
Kensington Grade School, and graduated from Kensington High School in 
1958. He attended Fort Hays State University and served in Kansas 
National Guard.
 On June 4, 1961, he married Margaret Rayburn Gilliland in 
Phillipsburg. Their daughter Katherine Ann (“Anne”) was born December 
26, 1965. Sadly she preceded her parents in death in June 1985 at the 
age of nineteen. Margaret passed away October 13, 2009.
 Bob and Margaret were very involved with Anne’s sports and 
activities. They were always very supportive of Anne’s friends and all 
youth in the community.
 Bob was a farmer his entire life. He was a very creative person. He 
could build and fix anything. His projects included beautiful furniture,
 working on farm equipment, doing carpentry and many other things. At 
one point, he built a train from barrels for the children of the 
Kensington community. He loved antique cars and would often participate 
in local parades and car shows. Restoring antique cars was a hobby of 
his.
 Bob is survived by his Sisters, Shirley Powell and Sharlene (John) 
Sampson, Nephews Mike (Ramona) Powell and Gary (Wendy) Powell and Niece 
Sharlyn (Chris) DeWeese. Many members of the Gilliland Family also 
survive him. Bob is survived by his dear dear friends Annette and Tim 
Riley. The Family wants to thank the Rileys (Annette, Tim) and Sherry 
Newbrey for all they have done as friends and caretakers. He was also 
preceded in death by his parents, Infant brother Kenneth (1936), 
Margaret’s parents Edwin and Florence (Dixon) Gilliland, Brother-in- Law
 Jack Powell and many members of the Gilliland Family. Many cousins who 
were dearly loved.Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Robert-Lee-Stockton?obId=24807983#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Robert L. Stockton

George Edwin Childs, 92, passed away May 5, 2022, in Hutchinson.&nbsp; He 
was born January 8, 1930, in Carroll County, MO, to Raymond and Allie 
(Melvin) Childs.

George graduated from Tina High School, Tina, MO.&nbsp; He was employed by
 Decker &amp; Mattison Co., Inc., Hutchinson, for over 30 years, and 
then worked with his son at Child’s Electric Heating &amp; Air, Inc., 
Hutchinson.&nbsp; George was a longtime member of Faith United Methodist 
Church, Hutchinson.

On October 29, 1950, he married Bonnie Violet Ferguson, in Colby, 
KS.&nbsp; They shared over 69 years of marriage, prior to her death on 
January 31, 2020.

George is survived by:&nbsp; his children, Betty (Roy) Cox of Council 
Grove, KS, Jim (Kris) Childs of Bruceton Mills, WV, David (Susie) Childs
 of Hutchinson, and Dan (Carla) Childs of Hutchinson; 15 grandchildren; 
36 great-grandchildren; sister, Anna Thomas of Chillicothe, MO; and best
 friend, Del Fesler of Hutchinson.

He was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents; wife; daughter, Glenda 
Meadows; grandson, Corey Meadows; brothers, Billy Childs, Tommy Childs, 
Warren Childs, Walter Childs, and Raymond Childs; and sister, Margie 
Lowe.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, 2022, at Elliott 
Mortuary, with the Reverend Larry Brock officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in 
Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson, at a later date.&nbsp; Friends may call 
from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 10, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; To 
view the funeral service online, the link will be available at the end 
of George’s obituary on the Elliott Mortuary website on the day of the 
service beginning at 1:45 p.m.

<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1651960869182786">Click here to view the funeral service.</a>

George would ask that you not send flowers, but rather make a 
donation to Kansas Honor Flight.&nbsp; It would be his way of honoring his 
brothers who served in World War II.&nbsp; Donations can be mailed to Elliott
 Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1652029901910.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>George Edwin Childs, 92, passed away May 5, 2022, in Hutchinson.&nbsp; He 
was born January 8, 1930, in Carroll County, MO, to Raymond and Allie 
(Melvin) Childs.George graduated from Tina High School, Tina, MO.&nbsp; He was employed by
 Decker &amp; Mattison Co., Inc., Hutchinson, for over 30 years, and 
then worked with his son at Child’s Electric Heating &amp; Air, Inc., 
Hutchinson.&nbsp; George was a longtime member of Faith United Methodist 
Church, Hutchinson.On October 29, 1950, he married Bonnie Violet Ferguson, in Colby, 
KS.&nbsp; They shared over 69 years of marriage, prior to her death on 
January 31, 2020.George is survived by:&nbsp; his children, Betty (Roy) Cox of Council 
Grove, KS, Jim (Kris) Childs of Bruceton Mills, WV, David (Susie) Childs
 of Hutchinson, and Dan (Carla) Childs of Hutchinson; 15 grandchildren; 
36 great-grandchildren; sister, Anna Thomas of Chillicothe, MO; and best
 friend, Del Fesler of Hutchinson.He was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents; wife; daughter, Glenda 
Meadows; grandson, Corey Meadows; brothers, Billy Childs, Tommy Childs, 
Warren Childs, Walter Childs, and Raymond Childs; and sister, Margie 
Lowe.Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, 2022, at Elliott 
Mortuary, with the Reverend Larry Brock officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in 
Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson, at a later date.&nbsp; Friends may call 
from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 10, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; To 
view the funeral service online, the link will be available at the end 
of George’s obituary on the Elliott Mortuary website on the day of the 
service beginning at 1:45 p.m.<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1651960869182786">Click here to view the funeral service.</a>George would ask that you not send flowers, but rather make a 
donation to Kansas Honor Flight.&nbsp; It would be his way of honoring his 
brothers who served in World War II.&nbsp; Donations can be mailed to Elliott
 Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

George Edwin Childs

Steve E. Larsen, 90, of Salina, passed away Tuesday,
 May 3, 2022.&nbsp; He was born in Lincoln County, Kansas to Edward Leaman 
and Myra Marie (Ackerman) Larsen on January 21, 1932.&nbsp;&nbsp; He married Mary 
Lou Willcoxon on October 7, 1961, in Salina.

Survivors include his children, Dan Larsen (Nancy), Tim E. Larsen and
 Penny Larsen; grandchildren, Shannen Morrow (Jason), Ashley Larsen, 
Kody Larsen (Taylor), and Chelsolyn Larsen; four great-grandchildren, 
Allie, Taylee, Weston and Emeree; sister Agnes Larsen Stamm.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou; parents; siblings; 
Oscar Larsen, Esther Steinle, Rita Lehman, Leo Larsen, Mark Larsen, Ivan
 Larsen, Michael Larsen, and Rose Mary Thomas.

He worked various jobs from ranch hand in his early twenties around 
Hays, Kansas; to construction in Hutchinson, Kansas. He worked at a 
grain elevator west of Salina, Kansas until he was drafted into the Army
 in 1956; where he was stationed in Italy until he came home in 1958. He
 returned to the grain elevator until he started his business, Steve’s 
Refrigeration Service, in 1963. He ran his business for 50 years until 
his retirement in 2013.

He was active member of the Salina chapter of the AMBUCS Breakfast Bandits since around 1975.

He enjoyed golfing with different members of his family and was looking forward to getting back to it this summer.

Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. Sunday, May 8, 2022, at Ryan Mortuary.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 9, at Ryan Mortuary.&nbsp; Interment will follow in Roselawn Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to AMBUCS Breakfast Bandits, in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 North Eighth Street, Salina, Kansas 67401.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651843549164.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Steve E. Larsen, 90, of Salina, passed away Tuesday,
 May 3, 2022.&nbsp; He was born in Lincoln County, Kansas to Edward Leaman 
and Myra Marie (Ackerman) Larsen on January 21, 1932.&nbsp;&nbsp; He married Mary 
Lou Willcoxon on October 7, 1961, in Salina.Survivors include his children, Dan Larsen (Nancy), Tim E. Larsen and
 Penny Larsen; grandchildren, Shannen Morrow (Jason), Ashley Larsen, 
Kody Larsen (Taylor), and Chelsolyn Larsen; four great-grandchildren, 
Allie, Taylee, Weston and Emeree; sister Agnes Larsen Stamm.He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou; parents; siblings; 
Oscar Larsen, Esther Steinle, Rita Lehman, Leo Larsen, Mark Larsen, Ivan
 Larsen, Michael Larsen, and Rose Mary Thomas.He worked various jobs from ranch hand in his early twenties around 
Hays, Kansas; to construction in Hutchinson, Kansas. He worked at a 
grain elevator west of Salina, Kansas until he was drafted into the Army
 in 1956; where he was stationed in Italy until he came home in 1958. He
 returned to the grain elevator until he started his business, Steve’s 
Refrigeration Service, in 1963. He ran his business for 50 years until 
his retirement in 2013.He was active member of the Salina chapter of the AMBUCS Breakfast Bandits since around 1975.He enjoyed golfing with different members of his family and was looking forward to getting back to it this summer.Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. Sunday, May 8, 2022, at Ryan Mortuary.Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 9, at Ryan Mortuary.&nbsp; Interment will follow in Roselawn Memorial Park.Memorials may be made to AMBUCS Breakfast Bandits, in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 North Eighth Street, Salina, Kansas 67401.

Steve E. Larsen

Brian Pattrick Smith was born October 31, 1975, on the USAH Base in 
Wurzburg, Germany, to Don Jay and Linda S. (Scott) Smith. He passed away 
May 3, 2022, in Norton, KS at the age of 46.
 Brian grew up in Stockton, KS and was a 1995 graduate of Stockton 
High School. He was very active in sports, competing in football, track,
 K-18 and the American Legion baseball teams and he was a state 
qualifier in wrestling. In high school, he was known to many as 
“Smithers." Brian married Corene Barnett on May 30, 2009, at the Hoxie 
Christian Church.

He worked for B&amp;B Redimix, Norton County Solid 
Waste/Landfill for many years and then was recently working for New Age 
Industrial in Norton. He enjoyed volunteering in the Norton community in
 many ways, from being on the Rural Fire Dept. to coaching recreational 
softball, tee ball, wrestling, and soccer. Brian was also very involved 
in the racing community, he raced cruisers, he was a tech for IMCA, and 
was known as “One Hit Wonder Smith” at the Demolition Derby. Brian was 
full of life and enjoyed having a good time with his friends and family.
 Brian had a great sense of humor, and he is especially remembered for 
misspelling his own name on his demo car and from then on, he was known 
as “Brain”. Most of all, Brian loved spending time with his family 
whether it be camping and fishing or helping coach his kids’ sports 
teams. He meant the world to his wife and kids, and he will be truly 
missed. 
 Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Linda; children 
born into God’s arms, Caden and Avery; grandparents, Carolyn and Wallace
 Smith and Gerald and Jean McLaughlin; grandparents-in-law, Edwin and 
Lorraine Coulter, Vernon Barnett, Mildred and Gerald Green; and 
father-in-law, Richard Barnett. He is survived by his wife, Corene and 
children, Grace, Eden, and Axel Smith all of the home; brother, Michaell
 (Heather) Smith of Galveston, TX; mother-in-law, Janet (Ron) Dunbar of 
Menahga, MN; brothers-in-law, Conrad (Carolynn) Dunbar of Richville, MN 
and William (Keisha) Dunbar of Menahga, MN, and many aunts, uncles, 
nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, family and friends.
 Funeral services will be held 10:30 am Tuesday, May 10, 2022, at the 
Norton Christian Church. Cremation will follow the services. Visitation 
will be from 4-7:00 pm Monday, May 9, also at the church. In lieu of 
flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Brian Smith

Memorial 
Fund to help with their children’s education funds and may be sent in 
care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. 
Condolences may be left online at www.plumergobber.com&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651843295385.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Brian Pattrick Smith was born October 31, 1975, on the USAH Base in 
Wurzburg, Germany, to Don Jay and Linda S. (Scott) Smith. He passed away 
May 3, 2022, in Norton, KS at the age of 46.
 Brian grew up in Stockton, KS and was a 1995 graduate of Stockton 
High School. He was very active in sports, competing in football, track,
 K-18 and the American Legion baseball teams and he was a state 
qualifier in wrestling. In high school, he was known to many as 
“Smithers." Brian married Corene Barnett on May 30, 2009, at the Hoxie 
Christian Church. He worked for B&amp;B Redimix, Norton County Solid 
Waste/Landfill for many years and then was recently working for New Age 
Industrial in Norton. He enjoyed volunteering in the Norton community in
 many ways, from being on the Rural Fire Dept. to coaching recreational 
softball, tee ball, wrestling, and soccer. Brian was also very involved 
in the racing community, he raced cruisers, he was a tech for IMCA, and 
was known as “One Hit Wonder Smith” at the Demolition Derby. Brian was 
full of life and enjoyed having a good time with his friends and family.
 Brian had a great sense of humor, and he is especially remembered for 
misspelling his own name on his demo car and from then on, he was known 
as “Brain”. Most of all, Brian loved spending time with his family 
whether it be camping and fishing or helping coach his kids’ sports 
teams. He meant the world to his wife and kids, and he will be truly 
missed. 
 Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Linda; children 
born into God’s arms, Caden and Avery; grandparents, Carolyn and Wallace
 Smith and Gerald and Jean McLaughlin; grandparents-in-law, Edwin and 
Lorraine Coulter, Vernon Barnett, Mildred and Gerald Green; and 
father-in-law, Richard Barnett. He is survived by his wife, Corene and 
children, Grace, Eden, and Axel Smith all of the home; brother, Michaell
 (Heather) Smith of Galveston, TX; mother-in-law, Janet (Ron) Dunbar of 
Menahga, MN; brothers-in-law, Conrad (Carolynn) Dunbar of Richville, MN 
and William (Keisha) Dunbar of Menahga, MN, and many aunts, uncles, 
nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, family and friends.
 Funeral services will be held 10:30 am Tuesday, May 10, 2022, at the 
Norton Christian Church. Cremation will follow the services. Visitation 
will be from 4-7:00 pm Monday, May 9, also at the church. In lieu of 
flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Brian Smith Memorial 
Fund to help with their children’s education funds and may be sent in 
care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654. 
Condolences may be left online at www.plumergobber.com&nbsp;

Brian Pattrick Smith

Dorothy Mae (Frazier) Smith, 84, of Smolan, KS 
passed away peacefully May 3, 2022, with family at her side.&nbsp; She was 
born August 12, 1937, in Bazine, to Otis James and Lillian (Burch) 
Frazier. She passed Hal Patrick Smith on October 26, 1959. They 
bought their house in Smolan where they raised their son and many 
others. Hal passed away in 2009.

She is preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Lois Roubidoux 
and Carol Sharp; two brothers, Robert Frazier and Richard Frazier.

She is survived by her son Hal William “Bill” Richard Smith and wife 
Kathy, of Smolan; foster daughter Ruth Downey, of Kansas City, Kansas; 
grandchildren, Eric and Brandee Adam, Hal Kelly Smith, Kylee Smith, 
Chris and Rachel Ledbetter and Steven and Grace Buller; 
great-grandchildren, Katie, Karter, Karee, Kelsee Adam, Hal Ryddyk B. 
Smith, Isaiah and Gabriella Smith, Evangelina Buller and many close 
nieces and nephews.

There will be a memorial service planned at a later date.&nbsp; Memorials 
may be made to Dorothy Smith Memorial Fund, in care of Ryan Mortuary, 
137 North Eighth Street, Salina, Kansas 67401.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651781808551.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dorothy Mae (Frazier) Smith, 84, of Smolan, KS 
passed away peacefully May 3, 2022, with family at her side.&nbsp; She was 
born August 12, 1937, in Bazine, to Otis James and Lillian (Burch) 
Frazier. She passed Hal Patrick Smith on October 26, 1959. They 
bought their house in Smolan where they raised their son and many 
others. Hal passed away in 2009.She is preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Lois Roubidoux 
and Carol Sharp; two brothers, Robert Frazier and Richard Frazier.She is survived by her son Hal William “Bill” Richard Smith and wife 
Kathy, of Smolan; foster daughter Ruth Downey, of Kansas City, Kansas; 
grandchildren, Eric and Brandee Adam, Hal Kelly Smith, Kylee Smith, 
Chris and Rachel Ledbetter and Steven and Grace Buller; 
great-grandchildren, Katie, Karter, Karee, Kelsee Adam, Hal Ryddyk B. 
Smith, Isaiah and Gabriella Smith, Evangelina Buller and many close 
nieces and nephews.There will be a memorial service planned at a later date.&nbsp; Memorials 
may be made to Dorothy Smith Memorial Fund, in care of Ryan Mortuary, 
137 North Eighth Street, Salina, Kansas 67401.

Dorothy Mae (Frazier) Smith

October 31, 1975
 -
 May 3, 2022

An obituary is pending with Plumer Gobber Funeral Home.

Click <a href="https://www.plumergobber.com/obituaries/Brian-Pattrick-Smith?obId=24781858#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

October 31, 1975
 -
 May 3, 2022An obituary is pending with Plumer Gobber Funeral Home.Click <a href="https://www.plumergobber.com/obituaries/Brian-Pattrick-Smith?obId=24781858#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Oklahoma joined Texas this week to form a region that parts of a nation divided over abortion care might look like if the U.S. Supreme Court strikes down its landmark Roe v. Wade ruling.

While abortion providers across the country have been bracing for the possibility that the high court’s new conservative majority&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/roe-wade-supreme-court-state-fight-e53b2b46d9606dc9468b8044a0b42ed0">might further restrict abortion</a>, that has especially been the case in Oklahoma, where lawmakers have passed a half-dozen anti-abortion measures this year.

A bill signed into law on Tuesday by Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-abortion-business-lawsuits-laws-8690c15ea5de5c6ed695003b7a533cb1">similar to the law passed in Texas</a>&nbsp;last year that led to a marked&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-business-texas-oklahoma-65225decf918b820801d162f14b09b80">increase in women</a>&nbsp;going to neighboring states, including Oklahoma, to get abortions. It prohibits doctors from performing an abortion after fetal activity is detected in the embryo, which experts say is typically after about six weeks and before many women even know they are pregnant. And like Texas’ law, it is enforced through civil, not criminal, courts and relies on civilians to inform on one another.

Abortion providers in Oklahoma said they are prepared for the law to take effect and have been helping women get appointments at clinics in neighboring states.

“I think something we realized in September (when the Texas law took effect) is that we are already living in a virtual post-Roe world in our region,” said Dr. Iman Alsaden, the medical director of Planned Parenthood Great Plains, which operates clinics in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.

“We have seen people go to extreme lengths to access abortion care: driving all night, doing whatever they can to get the basic health care they need for them and their families. We have been seeing what a post-Roe future looks like in this region of the country already, and it’s unbelievable.”

The Oklahoma Supreme Court declined to temporarily stop the law from taking effect, although the court is still considering a legal challenge.

Stitt’s signing of the bill, along with the leaked draft opinion suggesting the U.S. Supreme Court is considering weakening or overturning its Roe v. Wade decision, led more than 100 people to protest on Tuesday at the Oklahoma Capitol.

“I honestly and truly never thought we would actually get here,” said Sophia Fults, 22, a University of Oklahoma student from Tulsa who held a sign that read: “Keep abortion safe, legal and accessible.”

“Honestly, I was just shocked and I’m still kind of shocked and disgusted. So many women are going to be harmed because of this. It’s just horrendous.”

The new law authorizes abortions if they are performed as the result of a medical emergency, but there are no exceptions for if the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.

Like the Texas law, the Oklahoma bill would allow private citizens to sue abortion providers or anyone who helps a woman obtain an abortion. After the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-texas-0b4ed1808ed44d176bf6c86e6646a718">allowed that mechanism to remain in place</a>, other Republican-led states sought to copy Texas’ ban.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/idaho-abortion-ban-law-6eec10650b51c2b9dc98607d13cd8f40">Idaho’s governor</a>&nbsp;signed the first copycat measure in March, although it has been temporarily blocked by the state’s Supreme Court.

Stitt earlier this year signed a bill to make performing an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-oklahoma-law-87880e9f3c7bde2ae634cb2f02839e6e">abortion a felony</a>&nbsp;in Oklahoma, but that measure is not set to take effect until this summer, and legal experts say it’s likely to be blocked because Roe still remains the law of the land.

“One of our main responsibilities in government is to protect life, and that has been our deliberate intention,” said state Sen. Nathan Dahm, a Republican who wrote the bill to make abortion illegal. “I believe here in Oklahoma we’ll do everything we can to protect life from conception.”

The number of abortions performed each year in Oklahoma, which has four abortion clinics, has declined steadily over the last two decades, from more than 6,200 in 2002 to 3,737 in 2020, which were the fewest in more than 20 years, according to data from the Oklahoma State Department of Health. In 2020, before the Texas law was passed, about 9% of the abortions performed in Oklahoma involved women from Texas.

Before the Texas ban took effect on Sept. 1, about 40 women from Texas had abortions performed in Oklahoma each month, the data shows. That number jumped to 222 in September and 243 in October, according to the most recent data available.

Clinic operators in Texas saw about a 40% decrease in the number of abortions performed there after the law took effect, and Oklahoma operators say they expect similar declines, said Zachary Gingrich-Gaylord, a spokesman for Trust Women, which operates clinics in Oklahoma City and Wichita, Kansas.

“In Texas, we’ve seen that many clinics were able to retain around 60% of their pre-SB 8 patient volume, and it seems reasonable to expect something similar in Oklahoma,” Gingrich-Gaylord said, referring to the Texas law by its state Senate bill name. “The primary reason to think that we may see far less volume than that is the chilling effect caused by the (Supreme Court) leak that may add to confusion for patients seeking abortions.”

According to state health department data, about 47% of abortions performed in Oklahoma in 2020 were for women who were less than six weeks pregnant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649779268364.png" alt="“We want to outlaw abortion in the state of Oklahoma,”&nbsp; Gov. Kevin Stitt said during a bill signing ceremony in April.-photo courtesy Oklahoma Governor's office&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>“We want to outlaw abortion in the state of Oklahoma,”&nbsp; Gov. Kevin Stitt said during a bill signing ceremony in April.-photo courtesy Oklahoma Governor's office&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Oklahoma joined Texas this week to form a region that parts of a nation divided over abortion care might look like if the U.S. Supreme Court strikes down its landmark Roe v. Wade ruling.While abortion providers across the country have been bracing for the possibility that the high court’s new conservative majority&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/roe-wade-supreme-court-state-fight-e53b2b46d9606dc9468b8044a0b42ed0">might further restrict abortion</a>, that has especially been the case in Oklahoma, where lawmakers have passed a half-dozen anti-abortion measures this year.A bill signed into law on Tuesday by Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-abortion-business-lawsuits-laws-8690c15ea5de5c6ed695003b7a533cb1">similar to the law passed in Texas</a>&nbsp;last year that led to a marked&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-business-texas-oklahoma-65225decf918b820801d162f14b09b80">increase in women</a>&nbsp;going to neighboring states, including Oklahoma, to get abortions. It prohibits doctors from performing an abortion after fetal activity is detected in the embryo, which experts say is typically after about six weeks and before many women even know they are pregnant. And like Texas’ law, it is enforced through civil, not criminal, courts and relies on civilians to inform on one another.Abortion providers in Oklahoma said they are prepared for the law to take effect and have been helping women get appointments at clinics in neighboring states.“I think something we realized in September (when the Texas law took effect) is that we are already living in a virtual post-Roe world in our region,” said Dr. Iman Alsaden, the medical director of Planned Parenthood Great Plains, which operates clinics in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.“We have seen people go to extreme lengths to access abortion care: driving all night, doing whatever they can to get the basic health care they need for them and their families. We have been seeing what a post-Roe future looks like in this region of the country already, and it’s unbelievable.”The Oklahoma Supreme Court declined to temporarily stop the law from taking effect, although the court is still considering a legal challenge.Stitt’s signing of the bill, along with the leaked draft opinion suggesting the U.S. Supreme Court is considering weakening or overturning its Roe v. Wade decision, led more than 100 people to protest on Tuesday at the Oklahoma Capitol.“I honestly and truly never thought we would actually get here,” said Sophia Fults, 22, a University of Oklahoma student from Tulsa who held a sign that read: “Keep abortion safe, legal and accessible.”“Honestly, I was just shocked and I’m still kind of shocked and disgusted. So many women are going to be harmed because of this. It’s just horrendous.”The new law authorizes abortions if they are performed as the result of a medical emergency, but there are no exceptions for if the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.Like the Texas law, the Oklahoma bill would allow private citizens to sue abortion providers or anyone who helps a woman obtain an abortion. After the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-texas-0b4ed1808ed44d176bf6c86e6646a718">allowed that mechanism to remain in place</a>, other Republican-led states sought to copy Texas’ ban.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/idaho-abortion-ban-law-6eec10650b51c2b9dc98607d13cd8f40">Idaho’s governor</a>&nbsp;signed the first copycat measure in March, although it has been temporarily blocked by the state’s Supreme Court.Stitt earlier this year signed a bill to make performing an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-oklahoma-law-87880e9f3c7bde2ae634cb2f02839e6e">abortion a felony</a>&nbsp;in Oklahoma, but that measure is not set to take effect until this summer, and legal experts say it’s likely to be blocked because Roe still remains the law of the land.“One of our main responsibilities in government is to protect life, and that has been our deliberate intention,” said state Sen. Nathan Dahm, a Republican who wrote the bill to make abortion illegal. “I believe here in Oklahoma we’ll do everything we can to protect life from conception.”The number of abortions performed each year in Oklahoma, which has four abortion clinics, has declined steadily over the last two decades, from more than 6,200 in 2002 to 3,737 in 2020, which were the fewest in more than 20 years, according to data from the Oklahoma State Department of Health. In 2020, before the Texas law was passed, about 9% of the abortions performed in Oklahoma involved women from Texas.Before the Texas ban took effect on Sept. 1, about 40 women from Texas had abortions performed in Oklahoma each month, the data shows. That number jumped to 222 in September and 243 in October, according to the most recent data available.Clinic operators in Texas saw about a 40% decrease in the number of abortions performed there after the law took effect, and Oklahoma operators say they expect similar declines, said Zachary Gingrich-Gaylord, a spokesman for Trust Women, which operates clinics in Oklahoma City and Wichita, Kansas.“In Texas, we’ve seen that many clinics were able to retain around 60% of their pre-SB 8 patient volume, and it seems reasonable to expect something similar in Oklahoma,” Gingrich-Gaylord said, referring to the Texas law by its state Senate bill name. “The primary reason to think that we may see far less volume than that is the chilling effect caused by the (Supreme Court) leak that may add to confusion for patients seeking abortions.”According to state health department data, about 47% of abortions performed in Oklahoma in 2020 were for women who were less than six weeks pregnant.

Oklahoma joins Texas in offering glimpse of 'post-Roe' world

The students of Ellis County that attend and will attend USD 489 for many years to come need your help.&nbsp;A great education is one of the most important&nbsp;things a&nbsp;child will need to compete in the future.&nbsp;As technology advances the&nbsp;need to be competitive increases. Are we providing all the tools that our children&nbsp;will need to be the best and the brightest?&nbsp;Do we&nbsp;offer&nbsp;the best&nbsp;learning&nbsp;environment?&nbsp;What about classroom sizes? Optimum number of students? All these&nbsp;things and more are needed. It has been 40 years since a new school was constructed.&nbsp;

I recently retired from&nbsp;our&nbsp;local county government&nbsp;as a department head.&nbsp;One of the most important things to keep productivity at&nbsp;the most efficient level is&nbsp;training,&nbsp;proper equipment and&nbsp;facilities.&nbsp;I believe the administration&nbsp;does the very best in spending taxpayer dollars.&nbsp;

The drawback is constant repairs to old and outdated equipment and buildings. In October 2021, I received&nbsp;my Kansas Emergency&nbsp;Substitute&nbsp;Teaching License. This has allowed me to&nbsp;sub-teach over 60 times to date. What an eye-opening experience. The teachers in all the schools do an outstanding job&nbsp;and strive every day to give the students the best educational experience. But the&nbsp;buildings are old, classes are overcrowded, classrooms are too small, windows do not open, and old heating systems make noise. These things&nbsp;and others are&nbsp;not conducive to&nbsp;a proper learning&nbsp;environment.

I truly understand the importance of&nbsp;being frugal with taxpayer&nbsp;monies,&nbsp;but it is also the only place&nbsp;that the income to operate USD 489 comes from.&nbsp;My&nbsp;youngest son went through&nbsp;489,&nbsp;K – 12&nbsp;and received an excellent education.&nbsp;I am grateful to those who supported education&nbsp;in the past and ask that you&nbsp;truly look to the future and&nbsp;say yes to providing our children now and in the future the best education and opportunities for advanced learning. They are our future.

William “Bill” Ring, Ellis, retired Ellis County Public Works Director

The students of Ellis County that attend and will attend USD 489 for many years to come need your help.&nbsp;A great education is one of the most important&nbsp;things a&nbsp;child will need to compete in the future.&nbsp;As technology advances the&nbsp;need to be competitive increases. Are we providing all the tools that our children&nbsp;will need to be the best and the brightest?&nbsp;Do we&nbsp;offer&nbsp;the best&nbsp;learning&nbsp;environment?&nbsp;What about classroom sizes? Optimum number of students? All these&nbsp;things and more are needed. It has been 40 years since a new school was constructed.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>I recently retired from&nbsp;our&nbsp;local county government&nbsp;as a department head.&nbsp;One of the most important things to keep productivity at&nbsp;the most efficient level is&nbsp;training,&nbsp;proper equipment and&nbsp;facilities.&nbsp;I believe the administration&nbsp;does the very best in spending taxpayer dollars.&nbsp;The drawback is constant repairs to old and outdated equipment and buildings. In October 2021, I received&nbsp;my Kansas Emergency&nbsp;Substitute&nbsp;Teaching License. This has allowed me to&nbsp;sub-teach over 60 times to date. What an eye-opening experience. The teachers in all the schools do an outstanding job&nbsp;and strive every day to give the students the best educational experience. But the&nbsp;buildings are old, classes are overcrowded, classrooms are too small, windows do not open, and old heating systems make noise. These things&nbsp;and others are&nbsp;not conducive to&nbsp;a proper learning&nbsp;environment.I truly understand the importance of&nbsp;being frugal with taxpayer&nbsp;monies,&nbsp;but it is also the only place&nbsp;that the income to operate USD 489 comes from.&nbsp;My&nbsp;youngest son went through&nbsp;489,&nbsp;K – 12&nbsp;and received an excellent education.&nbsp;I am grateful to those who supported education&nbsp;in the past and ask that you&nbsp;truly look to the future and&nbsp;say yes to providing our children now and in the future the best education and opportunities for advanced learning. They are our future.Thank you.William “Bill” Ring, Ellis, retired Ellis County Public Works Director

LETTER: Time to invest in a great education for the future

WICHITA —Wichita State University parted ways with Athletic Director Darron Boatright Wednesday.&nbsp;

University President Richard Muma issued a statement "I write to let you know of a transition in our Department of Athletics."

"Earlier today, I informed Director of Athletics Darron Boatright, who has served the Shockers for 12 years, six as the full-time director, that we are making a change in the leadership of the department."&nbsp;

"While there were certainly achievements and successes during Darron’s tenure, there were significant, ongoing concerns that became acute in recent weeks, ones that I did not believe could be addressed. This decision is in the best interests of Wichita State, our coaches and staff, and our student-athletes."

"I have asked <a href="https://goshockers.com/staff-directory/sarah-adams/1425">Senior Associate Athletic Director </a>/ SWA Sarah Adams to serve as our Interim Director of Athletics and I am confident that she will provide us with the leadership, stability and compassion needed during the transition. "

"As all of you know, Wichita State University is on the rise, and our athletics program plays an important role in our institutional momentum. With incredible fans and supporters, talented coaches and support staff, a campus committed to excellence and, most importantly, hard-working student-athletes, we are poised for great success. With the assistance of an experienced search firm, we will immediately launch a national search for a new Director of Athletics who shares our values, our vision and our passion for Shocker sports and will work expediently but diligently to identify a new leader of our athletics program. I look forward to introducing our new leader of our Department of Athletics, who will elevate us to unprecedented heights." &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651690010771.jpeg" alt="Darron Boatright -photo courtesy WSU" />
 <figcaption>Darron Boatright -photo courtesy WSU</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —Wichita State University parted ways with Athletic Director Darron Boatright Wednesday.&nbsp;University President Richard Muma issued a statement "I write to let you know of a transition in our Department of Athletics.""Earlier today, I informed Director of Athletics Darron Boatright, who has served the Shockers for 12 years, six as the full-time director, that we are making a change in the leadership of the department."&nbsp;"While there were certainly achievements and successes during Darron’s tenure, there were significant, ongoing concerns that became acute in recent weeks, ones that I did not believe could be addressed. This decision is in the best interests of Wichita State, our coaches and staff, and our student-athletes."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651694508428.png" alt="Sarah Adams came to WSU from Eastern Washington University where she served as Senior Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator from October 2018 until November of 2019. She was promoted to Deputy Athletic Director in December of 2019 and served in that role until June of 2021.-photo courtesy WSIU" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Adams came to WSU from Eastern Washington University where she served as Senior Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator from October 2018 until November of 2019. She was promoted to Deputy Athletic Director in December of 2019 and served in that role until June of 2021.-photo courtesy WSIU</figcaption>
 </figure>"I have asked <a href="https://goshockers.com/staff-directory/sarah-adams/1425">Senior Associate Athletic Director </a>/ SWA Sarah Adams to serve as our Interim Director of Athletics and I am confident that she will provide us with the leadership, stability and compassion needed during the transition. ""As all of you know, Wichita State University is on the rise, and our athletics program plays an important role in our institutional momentum. With incredible fans and supporters, talented coaches and support staff, a campus committed to excellence and, most importantly, hard-working student-athletes, we are poised for great success. With the assistance of an experienced search firm, we will immediately launch a national search for a new Director of Athletics who shares our values, our vision and our passion for Shocker sports and will work expediently but diligently to identify a new leader of our athletics program. I look forward to introducing our new leader of our Department of Athletics, who will elevate us to unprecedented heights." &nbsp;

Wichita State fires AD, names Sarah Adams interim director

On Saturday, April 30, 2022, Rebecca "Becky" Gillett,a loving mother of 
three and the widow of Richard Gillett passed away at the age of 70. 
Becky was born on October 21,1951 in Alice, TX. On October 14,1972, she married Richard Gillett. 
The two of them resided in Healy, KS for 30 years. Becky was employed 
for many years as a CMA at Lane County Hospital. She also spent time 
working as an interpreter for the public school system. Becky enjoyed 
volunteering at Hope's Closet in Scott City, where she was able to meet 
and help out many people in the community. Becky loved to travel with 
her late husband and family. They enjoyed visiting many sites across the
 United States She loved family and hosting family gatherings. She 
enjoyed playing bingo at the local VFWs, listening to Elvis, and 
spending time picnicing at Scott Lake. 
Becky is survived by her three children 
Tracy Rene Gillett, Leslie Cheri Gillett (Mark), and Ramon Inguanza (Amanda). 
Five grandchildren Blake Gillett, Chris Hemel, Skylar Hemel, Makayla Inguanza and Kadence Inguanza. 
Four sisters Martha Sustiata, Sheila Inguanza, Zulema Inguanza, Gloria Ynguanzo. 
Two brothers Rene Inguanza and Raymond Inguanza. 
She is preceded in death by her husband Richard Gillett. 
One sister Ida Trujillo, and three brothers Rudy Inguanza, Reynaldo Inguanza, and Roy Inguanza 
Services will be held at a later date.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651681749120.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, April 30, 2022, Rebecca "Becky" Gillett,a loving mother of 
three and the widow of Richard Gillett passed away at the age of 70. 
Becky was born on October 21,1951 in Alice, TX. On October 14,1972, she married Richard Gillett. 
The two of them resided in Healy, KS for 30 years. Becky was employed 
for many years as a CMA at Lane County Hospital. She also spent time 
working as an interpreter for the public school system. Becky enjoyed 
volunteering at Hope's Closet in Scott City, where she was able to meet 
and help out many people in the community. Becky loved to travel with 
her late husband and family. They enjoyed visiting many sites across the
 United States She loved family and hosting family gatherings. She 
enjoyed playing bingo at the local VFWs, listening to Elvis, and 
spending time picnicing at Scott Lake. 
Becky is survived by her three children 
Tracy Rene Gillett, Leslie Cheri Gillett (Mark), and Ramon Inguanza (Amanda). 
Five grandchildren Blake Gillett, Chris Hemel, Skylar Hemel, Makayla Inguanza and Kadence Inguanza. 
Four sisters Martha Sustiata, Sheila Inguanza, Zulema Inguanza, Gloria Ynguanzo. 
Two brothers Rene Inguanza and Raymond Inguanza. 
She is preceded in death by her husband Richard Gillett. 
One sister Ida Trujillo, and three brothers Rudy Inguanza, Reynaldo Inguanza, and Roy Inguanza 
Services will be held at a later date.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Rebecca Gillett

Carol Jean Wood, 74, of Russell, Kansas, died on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at the Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell.

Carol was born on October 02, 1947, in Hays, Kansas, the daughter of 
John and Marge (Henn) Johnson.&nbsp; She grew up in Hays and graduated from 
Hays High School.&nbsp; After high school she attended Ft. Hays University 
where she met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Gale Ray Wood 
on June 03, 1967, in Salina, Kansas.&nbsp; From this union Carol and Gale 
were blessed with two children a son Kelly and daughter Cindy.&nbsp; The 
family lived in several towns in Kansas and eventually moved closer to 
home and moved to Russell in 2000.&nbsp; She was a very artistic person and 
enjoyed working with various crafts, scrap booking photo albums and cake
 decorating.&nbsp; She also enjoyed sewing and making clothes for her 
children and her daughters dolls.&nbsp; Most of all she enjoyed spending time
 with her family and especially enjoyed time with her children and 
grandchildren.

Surviving family include her daughter Cindy Jury and husband Rod of 
Russell, Kansas; brothers Tom Johnson and wife Joyce of Hays, Kansas; 
sisters Leigh Mabb and husband Gary of Ellis County, Kansas, Becki 
Johnson of St. Paul, Nebraska and Chris Dietz and husband Perry of Ellis
 County, Kansas; granddaughter Sadie Wood and husband Bobby Elliott of 
Russell, Kansas and great grandchildren Ronan Elliott and Hayden Ruiz.&nbsp;

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gale on November 
04, 2020 and son Kelly Ray Wood. Cremation has been selected by the 
family. &nbsp;A memorial service to celebrate Carol’s life will be held at 10
 A.M. on Friday, May 13, 2022, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in 
Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; Family will greet guests the day of the service.&nbsp; 
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the 
funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651681669433.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carol Jean Wood, 74, of Russell, Kansas, died on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at the Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell.Carol was born on October 02, 1947, in Hays, Kansas, the daughter of 
John and Marge (Henn) Johnson.&nbsp; She grew up in Hays and graduated from 
Hays High School.&nbsp; After high school she attended Ft. Hays University 
where she met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Gale Ray Wood 
on June 03, 1967, in Salina, Kansas.&nbsp; From this union Carol and Gale 
were blessed with two children a son Kelly and daughter Cindy.&nbsp; The 
family lived in several towns in Kansas and eventually moved closer to 
home and moved to Russell in 2000.&nbsp; She was a very artistic person and 
enjoyed working with various crafts, scrap booking photo albums and cake
 decorating.&nbsp; She also enjoyed sewing and making clothes for her 
children and her daughters dolls.&nbsp; Most of all she enjoyed spending time
 with her family and especially enjoyed time with her children and 
grandchildren.Surviving family include her daughter Cindy Jury and husband Rod of 
Russell, Kansas; brothers Tom Johnson and wife Joyce of Hays, Kansas; 
sisters Leigh Mabb and husband Gary of Ellis County, Kansas, Becki 
Johnson of St. Paul, Nebraska and Chris Dietz and husband Perry of Ellis
 County, Kansas; granddaughter Sadie Wood and husband Bobby Elliott of 
Russell, Kansas and great grandchildren Ronan Elliott and Hayden Ruiz.&nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Gale on November 
04, 2020 and son Kelly Ray Wood. Cremation has been selected by the 
family. &nbsp;A memorial service to celebrate Carol’s life will be held at 10
 A.M. on Friday, May 13, 2022, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in 
Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; Family will greet guests the day of the service.&nbsp; 
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the 
funeral service arrangements.

Carol Jean Wood

KANSAS CITY (AP)—A man who killed a couple during a robbery at their rural home more than a quarter of a century ago was put to death Tuesday, becoming just the fifth person executed in the United States this year.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-sentencing-missouri-8b1099a050b86c4a98c6fd0da5e0e3ed">Carman Deck</a>, 56, died by injection at the state prison in Bonne Terre. He was pronounced dead at 6:10 p.m. His fate was sealed a day earlier when neither the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-executions-missouri-4d6d9cf622713c2f79a8d577ccb13520">U.S. Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;nor Republican Gov. Mike Parson stepped in to halt the execution. Deck’s death sentence was overturned three times before for procedural issues.

Deck mouthed a few inaudible words as the 5 grams of pentobarbital were administered, then puffed out a couple of breaths before all movement stopped, the process lasting just a few seconds.

“My hope is that one day the world will find peace and that we all will learn to be kind and loving to one another,” Deck said in a written final statement. “We all are a part of this journey through life, connected in every way. Please give love, show love, BE LOVE!”

Parson, in a statement, said the couple killed, James and Zelma Long, “were innocent victims of Carman Deck’s heinous violence. Tonight, justice was served.”

Just four other people have been executed in the U.S. in 2022 —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-oklahoma-oklahoma-city-robbery-mcalester-3693d1a245878cc773aa6bdbbad56ab4">Donald Anthony Grant</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-oklahoma-mcalester-24d25f6c178c5b0852ccae3ba03214f1">Gilbert Ray Postelle&nbsp;</a>in Oklahoma,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-health-alabama-executions-b9b6c18d2d0f1833329d09091998b14a">Matthew Reeves</a>&nbsp;in Alabama and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-shootings-texas-executions-houston-74e25cf0325008b48a21619d257c69d0">Carl Wayne Buntio</a>&nbsp;n last month in Texas. Eleven people were executed in the U.S. last year, the fewest since 1988.

Court records show that Deck, of the St. Louis area, was a friend of the grandson of the Longs, who lived in De Soto, about 45 miles (72 kilometers) southwest of St. Louis. He knew the couple, in their late 60s, kept a safe in their home.

In July 1996, Deck and his sister stopped at the home under the guise of asking directions. Deck wasn’t surprised the couple let them in.

“They’re country folks,” Deck told a detective, according to court records. “They always do.”

Once inside, Deck pulled a gun from his waistband. At Deck’s command, Zelma Long opened the safe and removed jewelry, then got $200 from her purse and more money hidden in a canister.

Deck ordered the couple to lie on their stomachs on their bed. Court records said Deck stood there for 10 minutes deciding what to do, then shot James Long twice in the head before doing the same thing to Zelma Long.

A tip alerted police to Deck, and he was arrested later that night outside his sister’s apartment building in St. Louis County. The decorative tin canister from the Long home was on the floorboard of his car.

Prosecutors said Deck later gave a full account of the killings in oral, written and audiotaped statements. He was sentenced to death in 1998, but the Missouri Supreme Court tossed the sentence due to errors by Deck’s trial lawyer.

The U.S. Supreme Court threw out his second sentence in 2005, citing the prejudice caused by Deck being shackled in front of the sentencing jury.

He was sentenced to death for a third time in 2008.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/59b0d23c85d04ed7b8374ce433393748">Nine years later</a>, U.S. District Judge Catherine Perry determined that “substantial” evidence arguing against the death penalty in Deck’s first two penalty phases was unavailable for the third because witnesses had died, couldn’t be found or declined to cooperate.

In October 2020, a three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals restored the death penalty, ruling that Deck should have raised his concern first in state court, not federal court. Appeals of that ruling were unsuccessful.

The clemency petition on behalf of Deck cited abuse he suffered as a child, including beatings that left welts and sexual abuse. It said he and his siblings often were left alone without food. Deck's attorney, Elizabeth Unger Carlyle, said in a statement that Deck also was raped while in prison for theft at age 19.

“This experience transformed him from a non-violent thief into the person who committed two terrible murders,” Carlyle said. She called his execution “unjust and immoral.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-executions-f32c014193ac2fdc77c15e7c3db4ec6c">number of executions</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. has declined significantly since peaking at 98 in 1998. The drop has coincided with declining support, falling from a high of 80% in 1994 to 54% in 2021 according to Gallup polls. Since the mid-1990s, opposition has risen from under 20% to around 45%.

Use of the death penalty has become concentrated mostly in a few Southern and Plains states. Last year, Texas executed three inmates, Oklahoma executed two, and one each were put to death in Alabama, Mississippi and Missouri. Three federal inmates were executed in January 2021, toward the end of President Donald Trump’s administration.

On Monday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-executions-tennessee-nashville-e143acccdd34b46b346c0e1fb02fe823">paused executions</a>&nbsp;in his state for the rest of the year to enable a review of lethal injection procedures after a testing oversight forced the state to call off the execution of Oscar Smith an hour before he was to die on April 21.

KANSAS CITY (AP) —A man whose death sentence for killing a Missouri couple while robbing their home was overturned three times was scheduled to be executed on Tuesday.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-sentencing-missouri-8b1099a050b86c4a98c6fd0da5e0e3ed">Carman Deck</a>, 56, would be just the fifth U.S. inmate to be executed this year if his lethal injection goes ahead. His hopes for a reprieve were all but dashed on Monday when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-executions-missouri-4d6d9cf622713c2f79a8d577ccb13520">the U.S. Supreme Court turned aside an appeal</a>&nbsp;and Republican Gov. Mike Parson declined Deck’s clemency request, though he could file new appeals.

Deck, who was from the St. Louis area, was a friend of the grandson of James and Zelma Long and knew they kept a safe in their home De Soto, about 45 miles southwest of St. Louis, according to court records.

In July 1996, Deck and his sister stopped at the home under the guise of asking for directions. Deck told a detective that he wasn’t surprised to be invited inside by the couple, who were in their late 60s.

“They’re country folks,” Deck said, according to court records. “They always do.”

A tip alerted police to Deck and he was arrested later that night outside his sister’s apartment building in St. Louis County. The decorative tin canister from the Long home was in his car.

Prosecutors said Deck later gave a full account of the killings. He was sentenced to death in 1998, but the Missouri Supreme Court tossed the sentence due to errors by Deck’s trial lawyer.

He was condemned to death a second time, but the U.S. Supreme Court threw out the sentence in 2005, citing the prejudice caused by Deck being shackled in front of the jury.

He was sentenced to death for a third time in 2008, but U.S. District Judge Catherine Perry overturned that sentence&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/59b0d23c85d04ed7b8374ce433393748">nine years later</a>&nbsp;after she determined that “substantial” evidence arguing against the death penalty during Deck’s first two penalty phases was unavailable for the third because witnesses had died, couldn’t be found or declined to cooperate.

Deck’s clemency petition said he suffered sexual abuse and beatings as a child, and that he and his siblings were often left alone without food.

But Parson wasn’t swayed, explaining his rationale for rejecting the petition in a news release: “Mr. Deck has received due process, and three separate juries of his peers have recommended sentences of death for the brutal murders he committed.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-executions-f32c014193ac2fdc77c15e7c3db4ec6c">The number of executions</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. has declined significantly since peaking at 98 in 1998. The drop has coincided with a decline in public support for capital punishment that has fallen from a high of 80% in 1994 to 54% in 2021, according to Gallup polls. Since the mid-1990s, opposition to capital punishment has risen from under 20% to about 45%.

Just four people have been executed in 2022 —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-oklahoma-oklahoma-city-robbery-mcalester-3693d1a245878cc773aa6bdbbad56ab4">Donald Anthony Grant</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-oklahoma-mcalester-24d25f6c178c5b0852ccae3ba03214f1">Gilbert Ray Postelle</a>&nbsp;in Oklahoma,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-health-alabama-executions-b9b6c18d2d0f1833329d09091998b14a">Matthew Reeves</a>&nbsp;in Alabama and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-shootings-texas-executions-houston-74e25cf0325008b48a21619d257c69d0">Carl Wayne Buntion</a>&nbsp;last month in Texas. All four were convicted killers who were put to death by injection. Eleven people were executed in the U.S. last year, which was the country’s fewest executions since 1988.

On Monday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-executions-tennessee-nashville-e143acccdd34b46b346c0e1fb02fe823">paused executions</a>&nbsp;for the rest of the year to enable a review of lethal injection procedures after a testing oversight forced the state to call off the execution of Oscar Smith an hour before he was to die on April 21.

WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to halt the upcoming execution of Missouri inmate Carman Deck, and Republican Gov. Mike Parson said he will not grant clemency.

Deck, 56, is scheduled to die by injection at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the state prison in Bonne Terre for killing a couple while robbing their rural home in July 1996.

"Mr. Deck has received due process, and three separate juries of his peers have recommended sentences of death for the brutal murders he committed,” Parson said in a statement. “The State of Missouri will carry out Mr. Deck’s sentence according to the Court’s order and deliver justice.”

Deck's attorney didn't immediately respond to a message seeking comment.

Only four executions have been carried out in the U.S. so far in 2022, and the 11 last year were the fewest since 1988. Earlier Monday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-executions-tennessee-nashville-e143acccdd34b46b346c0e1fb02fe823">paused executions</a>&nbsp;for the rest of the year to enable a review of the state's lethal injection procedures. That decision came after a testing oversight forced the state to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-crime-executions-tennessee-c35f2cf35a7791617bd4e24555d13a2c">call off the execution</a>&nbsp;of Oscar Smith an hour before he was to die on April 21.

Deck, of the St. Louis area, admitted that he killed James Long, 69, and his 67-year-old wife, Zelma, while robbing them at their home in the eastern Missouri town of De Soto in July 1996.

Deck's death sentence was thrown out three times due to procedural errors before a federal appeals court panel restored it in 2020.

The clemency petition on behalf of Deck cited abuse he suffered as a child, including sexual abuse and beatings. It also said he and his siblings often were left alone without food.

The number of executions in the U.S. has declined significantly since peaking at 98 in 1998. The drop has coincided with a decline in public support for capital punishment that has fallen from a high of 80% in 1994 to 54% in 2021, according to Gallup polls. Since the mid-1990s, opposition to capital punishment has risen from under 20% to about 45%.

JEFFERSON CITY—On Monday, Governor Mike Parson confirmed that the State of Missouri will carry out the sentence of 56-year-old Carmen Deck on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, as ordered by the Supreme Court of Missouri, according to a statement from Parson's office.

"Mr. Deck has received due process, and three separate juries of his peers have recommended sentences of death for the brutal murders he committed,"&nbsp;Governor Parson&nbsp;said. "The State of Missouri will carry out Mr. Deck's sentence according to the Court's order and&nbsp;deliver justice."

Deck was tried and convicted for the heinous execution-style murders of two innocent elderly victims during a robbery in 1996. Mr. Deck fully admitted to his callous offenses in verbal, written, and recorded statements to law enforcement.

Court records said Deck and his sister went to the Long home under the guise of asking for directions, but with the intent to rob them. Deck pulled a pistol from his waistband and ordered them to lie facedown on their bed. He shot them in the head.

 In three different proceedings, separate juries have recommended Mr. Deck’s death sentences. Deck's case has been reviewed in the state trial court, Missouri Supreme Court, federal district court, Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, and United States Supreme Court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643738665139.png" alt="Deck photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Deck photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP)—A man who killed a couple during a robbery at their rural home more than a quarter of a century ago was put to death Tuesday, becoming just the fifth person executed in the United States this year.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-sentencing-missouri-8b1099a050b86c4a98c6fd0da5e0e3ed">Carman Deck</a>, 56, died by injection at the state prison in Bonne Terre. He was pronounced dead at 6:10 p.m. His fate was sealed a day earlier when neither the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-executions-missouri-4d6d9cf622713c2f79a8d577ccb13520">U.S. Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;nor Republican Gov. Mike Parson stepped in to halt the execution. Deck’s death sentence was overturned three times before for procedural issues.Deck mouthed a few inaudible words as the 5 grams of pentobarbital were administered, then puffed out a couple of breaths before all movement stopped, the process lasting just a few seconds.“My hope is that one day the world will find peace and that we all will learn to be kind and loving to one another,” Deck said in a written final statement. “We all are a part of this journey through life, connected in every way. Please give love, show love, BE LOVE!”Parson, in a statement, said the couple killed, James and Zelma Long, “were innocent victims of Carman Deck’s heinous violence. Tonight, justice was served.”Just four other people have been executed in the U.S. in 2022 —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-oklahoma-oklahoma-city-robbery-mcalester-3693d1a245878cc773aa6bdbbad56ab4">Donald Anthony Grant</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-oklahoma-mcalester-24d25f6c178c5b0852ccae3ba03214f1">Gilbert Ray Postelle&nbsp;</a>in Oklahoma,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-health-alabama-executions-b9b6c18d2d0f1833329d09091998b14a">Matthew Reeves</a>&nbsp;in Alabama and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-shootings-texas-executions-houston-74e25cf0325008b48a21619d257c69d0">Carl Wayne Buntio</a>&nbsp;n last month in Texas. Eleven people were executed in the U.S. last year, the fewest since 1988.Court records show that Deck, of the St. Louis area, was a friend of the grandson of the Longs, who lived in De Soto, about 45 miles (72 kilometers) southwest of St. Louis. He knew the couple, in their late 60s, kept a safe in their home.In July 1996, Deck and his sister stopped at the home under the guise of asking directions. Deck wasn’t surprised the couple let them in.“They’re country folks,” Deck told a detective, according to court records. “They always do.”Once inside, Deck pulled a gun from his waistband. At Deck’s command, Zelma Long opened the safe and removed jewelry, then got $200 from her purse and more money hidden in a canister.Deck ordered the couple to lie on their stomachs on their bed. Court records said Deck stood there for 10 minutes deciding what to do, then shot James Long twice in the head before doing the same thing to Zelma Long.A tip alerted police to Deck, and he was arrested later that night outside his sister’s apartment building in St. Louis County. The decorative tin canister from the Long home was on the floorboard of his car.Prosecutors said Deck later gave a full account of the killings in oral, written and audiotaped statements. He was sentenced to death in 1998, but the Missouri Supreme Court tossed the sentence due to errors by Deck’s trial lawyer.The U.S. Supreme Court threw out his second sentence in 2005, citing the prejudice caused by Deck being shackled in front of the sentencing jury.He was sentenced to death for a third time in 2008.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/59b0d23c85d04ed7b8374ce433393748">Nine years later</a>, U.S. District Judge Catherine Perry determined that “substantial” evidence arguing against the death penalty in Deck’s first two penalty phases was unavailable for the third because witnesses had died, couldn’t be found or declined to cooperate.In October 2020, a three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals restored the death penalty, ruling that Deck should have raised his concern first in state court, not federal court. Appeals of that ruling were unsuccessful.The clemency petition on behalf of Deck cited abuse he suffered as a child, including beatings that left welts and sexual abuse. It said he and his siblings often were left alone without food. Deck's attorney, Elizabeth Unger Carlyle, said in a statement that Deck also was raped while in prison for theft at age 19.“This experience transformed him from a non-violent thief into the person who committed two terrible murders,” Carlyle said. She called his execution “unjust and immoral.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-executions-f32c014193ac2fdc77c15e7c3db4ec6c">number of executions</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. has declined significantly since peaking at 98 in 1998. The drop has coincided with declining support, falling from a high of 80% in 1994 to 54% in 2021 according to Gallup polls. Since the mid-1990s, opposition has risen from under 20% to around 45%.Use of the death penalty has become concentrated mostly in a few Southern and Plains states. Last year, Texas executed three inmates, Oklahoma executed two, and one each were put to death in Alabama, Mississippi and Missouri. Three federal inmates were executed in January 2021, toward the end of President Donald Trump’s administration.On Monday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-executions-tennessee-nashville-e143acccdd34b46b346c0e1fb02fe823">paused executions</a>&nbsp;in his state for the rest of the year to enable a review of lethal injection procedures after a testing oversight forced the state to call off the execution of Oscar Smith an hour before he was to die on April 21.----------KANSAS CITY (AP) —A man whose death sentence for killing a Missouri couple while robbing their home was overturned three times was scheduled to be executed on Tuesday.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-sentencing-missouri-8b1099a050b86c4a98c6fd0da5e0e3ed">Carman Deck</a>, 56, would be just the fifth U.S. inmate to be executed this year if his lethal injection goes ahead. His hopes for a reprieve were all but dashed on Monday when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-executions-missouri-4d6d9cf622713c2f79a8d577ccb13520">the U.S. Supreme Court turned aside an appeal</a>&nbsp;and Republican Gov. Mike Parson declined Deck’s clemency request, though he could file new appeals.Deck, who was from the St. Louis area, was a friend of the grandson of James and Zelma Long and knew they kept a safe in their home De Soto, about 45 miles southwest of St. Louis, according to court records.In July 1996, Deck and his sister stopped at the home under the guise of asking for directions. Deck told a detective that he wasn’t surprised to be invited inside by the couple, who were in their late 60s.“They’re country folks,” Deck said, according to court records. “They always do.”Once inside, Deck pulled a gun from his waistband. At Deck’s command, Zelma Long opened the safe and removed jewelry, then got $200 from her purse and more money hidden in a canister.Deck ordered the couple to lie on their stomachs on their bed. Court records said Deck stood there for 10 minutes deciding what to do, then shot James Long twice in the head before doing the same thing to Zelma Long.A tip alerted police to Deck and he was arrested later that night outside his sister’s apartment building in St. Louis County. The decorative tin canister from the Long home was in his car.Prosecutors said Deck later gave a full account of the killings. He was sentenced to death in 1998, but the Missouri Supreme Court tossed the sentence due to errors by Deck’s trial lawyer.He was condemned to death a second time, but the U.S. Supreme Court threw out the sentence in 2005, citing the prejudice caused by Deck being shackled in front of the jury.He was sentenced to death for a third time in 2008, but U.S. District Judge Catherine Perry overturned that sentence&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/59b0d23c85d04ed7b8374ce433393748">nine years later</a>&nbsp;after she determined that “substantial” evidence arguing against the death penalty during Deck’s first two penalty phases was unavailable for the third because witnesses had died, couldn’t be found or declined to cooperate.In October 2020, a three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals restored the death penalty, ruling that Deck should have raised his concern first in state court, not federal court. Appeals of that ruling were unsuccessful.Deck’s clemency petition said he suffered sexual abuse and beatings as a child, and that he and his siblings were often left alone without food.But Parson wasn’t swayed, explaining his rationale for rejecting the petition in a news release: “Mr. Deck has received due process, and three separate juries of his peers have recommended sentences of death for the brutal murders he committed.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-executions-f32c014193ac2fdc77c15e7c3db4ec6c">The number of executions</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. has declined significantly since peaking at 98 in 1998. The drop has coincided with a decline in public support for capital punishment that has fallen from a high of 80% in 1994 to 54% in 2021, according to Gallup polls. Since the mid-1990s, opposition to capital punishment has risen from under 20% to about 45%.Just four people have been executed in 2022 —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-oklahoma-oklahoma-city-robbery-mcalester-3693d1a245878cc773aa6bdbbad56ab4">Donald Anthony Grant</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/executions-oklahoma-mcalester-24d25f6c178c5b0852ccae3ba03214f1">Gilbert Ray Postelle</a>&nbsp;in Oklahoma,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-health-alabama-executions-b9b6c18d2d0f1833329d09091998b14a">Matthew Reeves</a>&nbsp;in Alabama and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-shootings-texas-executions-houston-74e25cf0325008b48a21619d257c69d0">Carl Wayne Buntion</a>&nbsp;last month in Texas. All four were convicted killers who were put to death by injection. Eleven people were executed in the U.S. last year, which was the country’s fewest executions since 1988.Use of the death penalty has become concentrated mostly in a few Southern and Plains states. Last year, Texas executed three inmates, Oklahoma executed two, and one each were put to death in Alabama, Mississippi and Missouri. Three federal inmates were executed in January 2021, toward the end of President Donald Trump’s administration.On Monday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-executions-tennessee-nashville-e143acccdd34b46b346c0e1fb02fe823">paused executions</a>&nbsp;for the rest of the year to enable a review of lethal injection procedures after a testing oversight forced the state to call off the execution of Oscar Smith an hour before he was to die on April 21.---------------WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to halt the upcoming execution of Missouri inmate Carman Deck, and Republican Gov. Mike Parson said he will not grant clemency.Deck, 56, is scheduled to die by injection at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the state prison in Bonne Terre for killing a couple while robbing their rural home in July 1996."Mr. Deck has received due process, and three separate juries of his peers have recommended sentences of death for the brutal murders he committed,” Parson said in a statement. “The State of Missouri will carry out Mr. Deck’s sentence according to the Court’s order and deliver justice.”Deck's attorney didn't immediately respond to a message seeking comment.Only four executions have been carried out in the U.S. so far in 2022, and the 11 last year were the fewest since 1988. Earlier Monday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-executions-tennessee-nashville-e143acccdd34b46b346c0e1fb02fe823">paused executions</a>&nbsp;for the rest of the year to enable a review of the state's lethal injection procedures. That decision came after a testing oversight forced the state to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-health-crime-executions-tennessee-c35f2cf35a7791617bd4e24555d13a2c">call off the execution</a>&nbsp;of Oscar Smith an hour before he was to die on April 21.Deck, of the St. Louis area, admitted that he killed James Long, 69, and his 67-year-old wife, Zelma, while robbing them at their home in the eastern Missouri town of De Soto in July 1996.Deck's death sentence was thrown out three times due to procedural errors before a federal appeals court panel restored it in 2020.The clemency petition on behalf of Deck cited abuse he suffered as a child, including sexual abuse and beatings. It also said he and his siblings often were left alone without food.The number of executions in the U.S. has declined significantly since peaking at 98 in 1998. The drop has coincided with a decline in public support for capital punishment that has fallen from a high of 80% in 1994 to 54% in 2021, according to Gallup polls. Since the mid-1990s, opposition to capital punishment has risen from under 20% to about 45%.------------JEFFERSON CITY—On Monday, Governor Mike Parson confirmed that the State of Missouri will carry out the sentence of 56-year-old Carmen Deck on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, as ordered by the Supreme Court of Missouri, according to a statement from Parson's office."Mr. Deck has received due process, and three separate juries of his peers have recommended sentences of death for the brutal murders he committed,"&nbsp;Governor Parson&nbsp;said. "The State of Missouri will carry out Mr. Deck's sentence according to the Court's order and&nbsp;deliver justice."Deck was tried and convicted for the heinous execution-style murders of two innocent elderly victims during a robbery in 1996. Mr. Deck fully admitted to his callous offenses in verbal, written, and recorded statements to law enforcement.Court records said Deck and his sister went to the Long home under the guise of asking for directions, but with the intent to rob them. Deck pulled a pistol from his waistband and ordered them to lie facedown on their bed. He shot them in the head. In three different proceedings, separate juries have recommended Mr. Deck’s death sentences. Deck's case has been reviewed in the state trial court, Missouri Supreme Court, federal district court, Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, and United States Supreme Court.

Execution: Convicted killer put to death for 1996 murder of couple

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Federal sentencing for Tyler Gillum, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, is set for July 21.

This is the end of a story that has spanned seven years, saw ranchers stretched to their financial limits, banks defrauded of millions of dollars and the demise of a rural bank.

Despite the trail of economic turmoil left behind in this case, the local community is seeking a comeback.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/85498496-95af-4704-8e67-6ed8943abcf9">Gillum, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, was convicted in U.S. District Court on April 22 on 31 counts of bank fraud, one count of making a false statement in connection with a Small Business Administration guaranteed loan, and one count of making a false statement in a loan or credit card application. </a>

Gillum, 51, of Plainville owned
and operated Plainville Livestock Commission Inc. from 2006 until 2019. 

Between January 2015 and August 2017, Gillum wrote checks and made wire transfers between various accounts under his control at various banks in a scheme commonly known as check kiting, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

This is when checks are continually written back and forth to fraudulently inflate account balances tricking banks into honoring checks written with insufficient funds. Gillum’s scheme resulted in losses of more than $10 million to the banking system, according to the U.S. Attorney's office.

Bank officials stepped in February 2019. Almena Bank froze the Gillum's accounts, including a custodial account, which was supposed to hold money due to ranchers who sold cattle at Gillum's livestock auctions.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/12/ranchers-express-frustration-as-plainville-livestock-funds-remain-in-courts-hands/">Checks from the Plainville Livestock Commission for two sales — one at the end of January and the other on Feb. 5, 2019 — bounced.</a>

Money that was supposed to be set aside to pay cattle sellers was transferred from a custodial account to the Plainville Livestock Auction’s operating account. The Almena Bank froze both accounts, which resulted in bounced checks.

Ranchers who were due more than $900,000 in auction proceeds had to wait more than 10 months to receive payment for their cattle.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/11/auction-set-for-bankrupt-plainville-livestock-commission-14m-owed/">Plainville Livestock Commission declared bankruptcy on March 1, 2019.</a>

On March 28, 2019, Almena Bank of 
Almena stipulated to a consent order with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. to correct what court
 records called “unsafe and unsound banking practices and violations of 
laws and regulations.”

In October 2020, Almena Bank failed. "The $69 million-asset bank was closed by its state regulator, then sold by the FDIC&nbsp; to Equity Bank in Andover," according to a story in the American Banker on March 26, 2021.

The American Banker quoted an FDIC report on the closure, which said, “The board’s performance and management were considered to be critically deficient.”

The FDIC report did not specify the Gillum case as a factor in the bank's closure; however, it said  [Bank Chairman Shad] Chandler led "an aggressive growth strategy that involved using higher-cost wholesale funds to back a push into large Small Business Administration and Department of Agriculture loans."

According to the American Banker story, Almena Bank's failure cost the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund $18 million.

In May 2019, a grand jury returned a federal indictment against Tyler Gillum and his wife, Camden. Charges against Camden were later dropped.

The assets of the Plainville Livestock Commission were auctioned in June 2019. Court records indicated $14.5 million was owed at the time of the sale. The sale came up far short of the money owed.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/07/02/plainville-livestock-commission-property-sells-at-auction/">The Plainville Livestock Commission property in Plainville sold to Flatland Holding LLC for $850,000. According to a report from the court trustee, the total gross from the auction of the personal property and equipment from the bankruptcy auction was $405,682.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5de67bc1897d147ad4bb1dfd">A federal court in November 2019 ordered cattlemen to receive full payments from the Plainville Livestock Commission sales in January and February.</a>

At the time of those payments, Derek Stockman, a rancher, said he had to restructure his loans as he
 waited for payment in the case and lost about $2,000 in interest as his
 payment from the Feb. 5 auction was being held by the courts.

"It
 added a lot of financial stress ... and tension with the bankers and 
stuff like that," he said at that time. "I didn’t expect that we would get it all."

The Plainville Livestock Commission bankruptcy and the related delay of payments to ranchers, not only affected those ranchers who were due money, but had a trickle-down effect on the entire community. 

<a href="https://www.hayspost.com/2019/04/15/cattlemen-affected-by-plainville-bankruptcy-likely-in-for-long-wait-2/">Roger McEowen, a Washburn law professor, spoke to cattlemen following the Gillum bankruptcy</a>
 and noted there is a multiplier of three to four times in the community
 associated with this agriculture revenue. With almost $1 million owed 
to producers, that equaled $3 million to $4 million that had been taken 
out of circulation in the local economy.

<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/04/22/plainville-economy-trying-to-recover-after-two-bankruptcies-in-a-month/">Roger Hrabe, director of the Rooks County Economic Development, acknowledged 2019 was a rough year for the community. In addition to the Plainville Livestock Commission closing, Chuck Comeau and his Dessin Fournir furniture company also declared bankruptcy within a month of the Plainville Livestock Commission closure.</a>

However, Hrabe said Plainville is rebounding.

Several of the companies owned by Chuck Comeau's Dessin Fournir have been purchased and reopened. 

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/774d9973-dab0-4fc2-b862-ac2ed2934d28">RELATED STORY: Former employees relaunch Dessin Fournir furniture lines</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5df24fccaa6b27189b034932">RELATED STORY: Hansens reopen doors of Plainville lighting company</a>

<a href="https://www.hrstockyards.com/">The livestock auction is now being operated by Heartland Regional Stockyards owned by Lloyd and Judy Schneider. </a>

Hrabe said the new owners of the stockyards, as well as the former Dessin Fournir companies, have all expanded since they were purchased by their new owners.

A co-working space, boutique and mortgage company have all opened in downtown Plainville in the last year. A new child care center and preschool are coming to the community, and a feasibility study is in the works for a new senior care facility.

"We have downtown Plainville Inc. that is made up of some very energetic people, and they are doing some good things," Hrabe said. "They have some building renovations too that ultimately lead to something good down there."

Unemployment rates in Rooks County remain very low — in the 2.5 percent range. There are more local job listings than Hrabe has seen in years.

Hays Post attempted to contact Gillum's defense attorney for a comment on the conviction. Hays Post also asked if Gillum intends to appeal the conviction, but a call was not returned.

Hays Post reached out to the attorneys for Equity Bank, which bought Almena Bank. No one returned a phone call. Hays Post also reached out to representatives of Landmark Bank and TBK Bank, who were also listed in the case. No one returned phone calls.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575404210576.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFederal sentencing for Tyler Gillum, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, is set for July 21.This is the end of a story that has spanned seven years, saw ranchers stretched to their financial limits, banks defrauded of millions of dollars and the demise of a rural bank.Despite the trail of economic turmoil left behind in this case, the local community is seeking a comeback. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/85498496-95af-4704-8e67-6ed8943abcf9">Gillum, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, was convicted in U.S. District Court on April 22 on 31 counts of bank fraud, one count of making a false statement in connection with a Small Business Administration guaranteed loan, and one count of making a false statement in a loan or credit card application. </a>Gillum, 51, of Plainville owned
and operated Plainville Livestock Commission Inc. from 2006 until 2019. Between January 2015 and August 2017, Gillum wrote checks and made wire transfers between various accounts under his control at various banks in a scheme commonly known as check kiting, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. This is when checks are continually written back and forth to fraudulently inflate account balances tricking banks into honoring checks written with insufficient funds. Gillum’s scheme resulted in losses of more than $10 million to the banking system, according to the U.S. Attorney's office. Bank officials stepped in February 2019. Almena Bank froze the Gillum's accounts, including a custodial account, which was supposed to hold money due to ranchers who sold cattle at Gillum's livestock auctions.<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/12/ranchers-express-frustration-as-plainville-livestock-funds-remain-in-courts-hands/">Checks from the Plainville Livestock Commission for two sales — one at the end of January and the other on Feb. 5, 2019 — bounced.</a>Money that was supposed to be set aside to pay cattle sellers was transferred from a custodial account to the Plainville Livestock Auction’s operating account. The Almena Bank froze both accounts, which resulted in bounced checks.Ranchers who were due more than $900,000 in auction proceeds had to wait more than 10 months to receive payment for their cattle.<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/06/11/auction-set-for-bankrupt-plainville-livestock-commission-14m-owed/">Plainville Livestock Commission declared bankruptcy on March 1, 2019.</a>On March 28, 2019, Almena Bank of 
Almena stipulated to a consent order with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. to correct what court
 records called “unsafe and unsound banking practices and violations of 
laws and regulations.”In October 2020, Almena Bank failed. "The $69 million-asset bank was closed by its state regulator, then sold by the FDIC&nbsp; to Equity Bank in Andover," according to a story in the American Banker on March 26, 2021.The American Banker quoted an FDIC report on the closure, which said, “The board’s performance and management were considered to be critically deficient.”The FDIC report did not specify the Gillum case as a factor in the bank's closure; however, it said [Bank Chairman Shad] Chandler led "an aggressive growth strategy that involved using higher-cost wholesale funds to back a push into large Small Business Administration and Department of Agriculture loans."According to the American Banker story, Almena Bank's failure cost the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund $18 million.In May 2019, a grand jury returned a federal indictment against Tyler Gillum and his wife, Camden. Charges against Camden were later dropped.The assets of the Plainville Livestock Commission were auctioned in June 2019. Court records indicated $14.5 million was owed at the time of the sale. The sale came up far short of the money owed. <a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/07/02/plainville-livestock-commission-property-sells-at-auction/">The Plainville Livestock Commission property in Plainville sold to Flatland Holding LLC for $850,000. According to a report from the court trustee, the total gross from the auction of the personal property and equipment from the bankruptcy auction was $405,682.</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5de67bc1897d147ad4bb1dfd">A federal court in November 2019 ordered cattlemen to receive full payments from the Plainville Livestock Commission sales in January and February.</a> At the time of those payments, Derek Stockman, a rancher, said he had to restructure his loans as he
 waited for payment in the case and lost about $2,000 in interest as his
 payment from the Feb. 5 auction was being held by the courts."It
 added a lot of financial stress ... and tension with the bankers and 
stuff like that," he said at that time. "I didn’t expect that we would get it all."The Plainville Livestock Commission bankruptcy and the related delay of payments to ranchers, not only affected those ranchers who were due money, but had a trickle-down effect on the entire community. <a href="https://www.hayspost.com/2019/04/15/cattlemen-affected-by-plainville-bankruptcy-likely-in-for-long-wait-2/">Roger McEowen, a Washburn law professor, spoke to cattlemen following the Gillum bankruptcy</a>
 and noted there is a multiplier of three to four times in the community
 associated with this agriculture revenue. With almost $1 million owed 
to producers, that equaled $3 million to $4 million that had been taken 
out of circulation in the local economy.<a href="https://archive.hayspost.com/2019/04/22/plainville-economy-trying-to-recover-after-two-bankruptcies-in-a-month/">Roger Hrabe, director of the Rooks County Economic Development, acknowledged 2019 was a rough year for the community. In addition to the Plainville Livestock Commission closing, Chuck Comeau and his Dessin Fournir furniture company also declared bankruptcy within a month of the Plainville Livestock Commission closure.</a> However, Hrabe said Plainville is rebounding. Several of the companies owned by Chuck Comeau's Dessin Fournir have been purchased and reopened. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/774d9973-dab0-4fc2-b862-ac2ed2934d28">RELATED STORY: Former employees relaunch Dessin Fournir furniture lines</a> <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5df24fccaa6b27189b034932">RELATED STORY: Hansens reopen doors of Plainville lighting company</a> <a href="https://www.hrstockyards.com/">The livestock auction is now being operated by Heartland Regional Stockyards owned by Lloyd and Judy Schneider. </a>Hrabe said the new owners of the stockyards, as well as the former Dessin Fournir companies, have all expanded since they were purchased by their new owners. A co-working space, boutique and mortgage company have all opened in downtown Plainville in the last year. A new child care center and preschool are coming to the community, and a feasibility study is in the works for a new senior care facility. "We have downtown Plainville Inc. that is made up of some very energetic people, and they are doing some good things," Hrabe said. "They have some building renovations too that ultimately lead to something good down there." Unemployment rates in Rooks County remain very low — in the 2.5 percent range. There are more local job listings than Hrabe has seen in years. Hays Post attempted to contact Gillum's defense attorney for a comment on the conviction. Hays Post also asked if Gillum intends to appeal the conviction, but a call was not returned.Hays Post reached out to the attorneys for Equity Bank, which bought Almena Bank. No one returned a phone call. Hays Post also reached out to representatives of Landmark Bank and TBK Bank, who were also listed in the case. No one returned phone calls.

Gillum leaves legacy of economic downfall; Plainville on rebound

Marvin&nbsp;Ray Nimz&nbsp;was born on October 22, 1929, in Ransom, Kansas, the son of Wilhelm&nbsp;and Celia (Rufenacht) Nimz. He passed away&nbsp;Monday, May 2,&nbsp;2022,&nbsp;at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital.&nbsp;He was 92 years old.

Marvin grew up in&nbsp;Trego County, attended local schools and graduated from Trego Community High School with&nbsp;the class of 1947.&nbsp;On July 17, 1952, Marvin was united in marriage to Frances (Richmeier) Nimz.

Marvin was a farmer&nbsp;and&nbsp;enjoyed playing cards, woodworking, jigsaw puzzles and gardening.

Marvin will be dearly missed.&nbsp;Surviving family include his wife Frances of 69 years;&nbsp;sons&nbsp;Daryl Nimz of Ottawa,&nbsp;Kansas,&nbsp;Mark (Joleen) Nimz&nbsp;of WaKeeney Kansas,&nbsp;Kevin&nbsp;(Sandy) Nimz&nbsp;of Salina, Kansas,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Larry (Lindy) Nimz of Littleton,&nbsp;Colorado;&nbsp;daughter Jill (Bob) Hemenway of McPherson,&nbsp;Kansas;&nbsp;11 grandchildren;&nbsp;12&nbsp;great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and&nbsp;sister Marjorie Cotton of Hoisington, Kansas; He was preceded in death by his parents;&nbsp;3&nbsp;brothers&nbsp;Fred,&nbsp;Leroy and Willie Nimz;&nbsp;2 sisters Emma Moody and Celia Nimz;&nbsp;and daughter-in-law Barb Nimz.

Visitation will be held&nbsp;from 5:00-7:00 PM&nbsp;Thursday, May 5, 2022,&nbsp;at Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney, with a vigil service directly following the visitation.

A&nbsp;Mass of Christian burial and celebration of&nbsp;Marvin’s&nbsp;life will be held at10:30 AM on Friday, May 6, 2022, at Christ the King&nbsp;Parish Center in WaKeeney.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Boy’s Town,&nbsp;WaKeeney Public Transportation, or Christ the King Building Fund. Donations to the organizations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th&nbsp;St. WaKeeney, Kansas, 67672.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.schmittfuneral.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651611325309.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Marvin&nbsp;Ray Nimz&nbsp;was born on October 22, 1929, in Ransom, Kansas, the son of Wilhelm&nbsp;and Celia (Rufenacht) Nimz. He passed away&nbsp;Monday, May 2,&nbsp;2022,&nbsp;at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital.&nbsp;He was 92 years old.Marvin grew up in&nbsp;Trego County, attended local schools and graduated from Trego Community High School with&nbsp;the class of 1947.&nbsp;On July 17, 1952, Marvin was united in marriage to Frances (Richmeier) Nimz.Marvin was a farmer&nbsp;and&nbsp;enjoyed playing cards, woodworking, jigsaw puzzles and gardening.Marvin will be dearly missed.&nbsp;Surviving family include his wife Frances of 69 years;&nbsp;sons&nbsp;Daryl Nimz of Ottawa,&nbsp;Kansas,&nbsp;Mark (Joleen) Nimz&nbsp;of WaKeeney Kansas,&nbsp;Kevin&nbsp;(Sandy) Nimz&nbsp;of Salina, Kansas,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Larry (Lindy) Nimz of Littleton,&nbsp;Colorado;&nbsp;daughter Jill (Bob) Hemenway of McPherson,&nbsp;Kansas;&nbsp;11 grandchildren;&nbsp;12&nbsp;great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and&nbsp;sister Marjorie Cotton of Hoisington, Kansas; He was preceded in death by his parents;&nbsp;3&nbsp;brothers&nbsp;Fred,&nbsp;Leroy and Willie Nimz;&nbsp;2 sisters Emma Moody and Celia Nimz;&nbsp;and daughter-in-law Barb Nimz. Visitation will be held&nbsp;from 5:00-7:00 PM&nbsp;Thursday, May 5, 2022,&nbsp;at Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney, with a vigil service directly following the visitation.A&nbsp;Mass of Christian burial and celebration of&nbsp;Marvin’s&nbsp;life will be held at10:30 AM on Friday, May 6, 2022, at Christ the King&nbsp;Parish Center in WaKeeney.Memorial contributions are suggested to Boy’s Town,&nbsp;WaKeeney Public Transportation, or Christ the King Building Fund. Donations to the organizations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th&nbsp;St. WaKeeney, Kansas, 67672.Condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.schmittfuneral.com

Marvin Ray Nimz

Dyanna Kay Wilson, 58, died May 1, 2022, at her home in Hoisington.&nbsp; 
She was born October 23, 1963, the daughter of Gary and Linda (Woodard) 
Wilson.

Dyanna was a member of First Street Church of God, Hoisington, 
Kansas. Dyanna was a motorcycle enthusiast who also loved to play pool 
and crochet.

Survivors include; sons, Dallas Schwab and fiance Stacie of Lone Oak,
 Texas, and Dylan Wilson of Greenville, Texas; father, Gary Wilson and 
wife Shirley of St. Joseph, Missouri; siblings, Terese Wilson, Darlene 
Case, Ross Tuey, Tammy Piland and husband Scotty, Chris Kelso and wife 
Shannon, and Ricky Ray, all of Great Bend; Brian and Brad Brumm of St. 
Joseph, Missouri, Joe Ray of Chase; Roxie Bowman of Stewartsville, 
Missouri; uncle, Charlie Woodard and wife Dee of Hutchinson; many nieces
 and nephews, including Joseph Russell and wife Sara and their daughter 
Brianna of Lyons; three grandchildren, Leah, Lakley, and Dozer and one 
more on the way; and her beloved dog, Sadie Sue.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Linda Gilmore; grandparents,
 Edward and Dorothy Wilson and Gordon and Thelma Woodard; and sisters, 
Donna Lee and Jerrie Dee.

Memorial service will be at 4:20 p.m., Friday, May 6, 2022, at First 
Church of God, Hoisington, with Rev. Dick Ogle.&nbsp; Family will greet 
friends prior to service starting at 3:30 p.m.

Memorials may be made to Dyanna Wilson’s Grandchildren’s Education 
Fund in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS
 67544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651597226149.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dyanna Kay Wilson, 58, died May 1, 2022, at her home in Hoisington.&nbsp; 
She was born October 23, 1963, the daughter of Gary and Linda (Woodard) 
Wilson.Dyanna was a member of First Street Church of God, Hoisington, 
Kansas. Dyanna was a motorcycle enthusiast who also loved to play pool 
and crochet.Survivors include; sons, Dallas Schwab and fiance Stacie of Lone Oak,
 Texas, and Dylan Wilson of Greenville, Texas; father, Gary Wilson and 
wife Shirley of St. Joseph, Missouri; siblings, Terese Wilson, Darlene 
Case, Ross Tuey, Tammy Piland and husband Scotty, Chris Kelso and wife 
Shannon, and Ricky Ray, all of Great Bend; Brian and Brad Brumm of St. 
Joseph, Missouri, Joe Ray of Chase; Roxie Bowman of Stewartsville, 
Missouri; uncle, Charlie Woodard and wife Dee of Hutchinson; many nieces
 and nephews, including Joseph Russell and wife Sara and their daughter 
Brianna of Lyons; three grandchildren, Leah, Lakley, and Dozer and one 
more on the way; and her beloved dog, Sadie Sue.She was preceded in death by her mother, Linda Gilmore; grandparents,
 Edward and Dorothy Wilson and Gordon and Thelma Woodard; and sisters, 
Donna Lee and Jerrie Dee.Memorial service will be at 4:20 p.m., Friday, May 6, 2022, at First 
Church of God, Hoisington, with Rev. Dick Ogle.&nbsp; Family will greet 
friends prior to service starting at 3:30 p.m.Memorials may be made to Dyanna Wilson’s Grandchildren’s Education 
Fund in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS
 67544.

Dyanna Kay Wilson

James "Jim" Francis Underwood age 86 went home to be with his Lord on February 23, 2022.  Jim was born on August 25, 1936, in Milwaukee, OR. to the late Burchie and Ruby (Rhoades) Underwood. In 1938, his family moved back to Norton and this is where Jim made his home. While a senior in high school Jim joined the Army Reserves.  After high school he worked on the paint and garden crew for the State Sanatorium.  He then went to Fort Carson Colorado for two weeks of boot camp after which he joined the Navy.  He took his basics at the Great Lakes in Chicago.  In the latter part of 1957, he went to work for his dad Burchie at the Underwood Conoco station in Norton.  On October 11, 1958, he married Wenda L. Taylor.  They have 3 daughters.  Patty, Theresa and Connie. In 1973, after his dad Burchie retired Jim took over the Underwood Conoco station.  After 50 years, Jim retired from the station.  The Underwood Conoco station was the last full-service station in downtown Norton. 

Jim was active with the Norton Jaycees.  He was the director in 1971 and won the Gold Key Man’s award.  He was the Jaycees girls’ softball director and coached his daughters’ teams for many years. Jim was on a couple of bowling teams one of them being the Underwood Conoco Team.  He was a member of the Norton Squarenaders beginning in 1972 and serving as Vice President and President of the club. Jim was a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He belonged to the Eagles, American Legion, ABC Bowling Association and the Conoco Inc. Dealers Association. Jim was a member of the United Methodist Church.

Jim will be remembered for his love of his family, his customers and friends who traded with him at the station and his love of the outdoors. This note was found in his billford.  The kiss of the sun for pardon.  The song of the bird for mirth. One is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth.  The garden was Jim’s happy place.  Jim loved his hometown of Norton Kansas.  Ask Jim anything that had to do with Norton and he could tell you the history and who was related to who in Norton. He was a walking history book of Norton Kansas. 

Survivors include three daughters Patty Fitzmaurice and her husband Rev. David Fitzmaurice, Belgrade MO., Theresa Underwood Palo, KS., and Connie Ellis and husband Glen Ellis Lenora KS. Four grandchildren Joshua Fitzmaurice Bend OR., Silas Fitzmaurice Chesterfield MO., William Seven Jones Denver CO., and James Jones Palo, KS.  One sister Bonnie (Underwood) and husband Dr. William Lathrop Lawrence KS., and one brother Jerry and Sybil Underwood Leawood, KS: eight great grandchildren: other relatives and his many friends. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Wenda Underwood and his parents Burchie and Ruby Underwood.

Cremation was chosen.  A graveside service will be held Monday, May 9, at 1:00 p.m. in the Norton Cemetery with Rev. David Fitzmaurice officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Andbe Home

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651590272202.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>James "Jim" Francis Underwood age 86 went home to be with his Lord on February 23, 2022. Jim was born on August 25, 1936, in Milwaukee, OR. to the late Burchie and Ruby (Rhoades) Underwood. In 1938, his family moved back to Norton and this is where Jim made his home. While a senior in high school Jim joined the Army Reserves. After high school he worked on the paint and garden crew for the State Sanatorium. He then went to Fort Carson Colorado for two weeks of boot camp after which he joined the Navy. He took his basics at the Great Lakes in Chicago. In the latter part of 1957, he went to work for his dad Burchie at the Underwood Conoco station in Norton. On October 11, 1958, he married Wenda L. Taylor. They have 3 daughters. Patty, Theresa and Connie. In 1973, after his dad Burchie retired Jim took over the Underwood Conoco station. After 50 years, Jim retired from the station. The Underwood Conoco station was the last full-service station in downtown Norton. Jim was active with the Norton Jaycees. He was the director in 1971 and won the Gold Key Man’s award. He was the Jaycees girls’ softball director and coached his daughters’ teams for many years. Jim was on a couple of bowling teams one of them being the Underwood Conoco Team. He was a member of the Norton Squarenaders beginning in 1972 and serving as Vice President and President of the club. Jim was a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He belonged to the Eagles, American Legion, ABC Bowling Association and the Conoco Inc. Dealers Association. Jim was a member of the United Methodist Church.Jim will be remembered for his love of his family, his customers and friends who traded with him at the station and his love of the outdoors. This note was found in his billford. The kiss of the sun for pardon. The song of the bird for mirth. One is nearer God’s heart in a garden than anywhere else on earth. The garden was Jim’s happy place. Jim loved his hometown of Norton Kansas. Ask Jim anything that had to do with Norton and he could tell you the history and who was related to who in Norton. He was a walking history book of Norton Kansas. Survivors include three daughters Patty Fitzmaurice and her husband Rev. David Fitzmaurice, Belgrade MO., Theresa Underwood Palo, KS., and Connie Ellis and husband Glen Ellis Lenora KS. Four grandchildren Joshua Fitzmaurice Bend OR., Silas Fitzmaurice Chesterfield MO., William Seven Jones Denver CO., and James Jones Palo, KS. One sister Bonnie (Underwood) and husband Dr. William Lathrop Lawrence KS., and one brother Jerry and Sybil Underwood Leawood, KS: eight great grandchildren: other relatives and his many friends. He was preceded in death by his wife Wenda Underwood and his parents Burchie and Ruby Underwood.Cremation was chosen. A graveside service will be held Monday, May 9, at 1:00 p.m. in the Norton Cemetery with Rev. David Fitzmaurice officiating.Memorial contributions may be made to the Andbe Home