Wednesday, December 16th, 1925-Tuesday, October 27th, 2020

An obituary is pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Click <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/edwin-huelsmann/4374497/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603908505117.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wednesday, December 16th, 1925-Tuesday, October 27th, 2020An obituary is pending with Baalmann Mortuary.Click <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/edwin-huelsmann/4374497/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

Edwin A. Huelsmann

Nancy “Bunny” Wright, age 77, of Ellis, Kansas, passed away Monday, October 26, 2020, at Hays Medical Center. She was born November 19, 1942, in Holton, Kansas, to Glenn D. and Vivian (Hallauer) Mapes. She graduated from Natoma High School in 1960. She completed floral classes in the early '60s. &nbsp;Nancy was a florist throughout her life.&nbsp; Her first shop was in Natoma.&nbsp; Nancy worked as an administrative assistant in the oil industry for 10 years before returning to her passion as a florist. She owned and operated the Ellis Flower Shop for over 20 years. During that time she was a member of the Kansas State Floral Association where she received many awards including a Master Designer Award and later was a member of their board. Nancy was a Rainbow Girl and later in the Order of Eastern Star for several years.&nbsp; She was heavily involved in the Ellis community where she served on the Chrysler Boyhood Home Board, Alpha Rho, Epsilon Sigma Alpha, VFW Auxiliary. Nancy was instrumental in starting up the Ellis Main Street Association and served as a founding member. Nancy is survived by two sons, Glenn (Diane) Wright of Grand Junction, CO and Kenneth (Ginnie) Wright of Cunningham, KS; a daughter, Alisa (Carl) Grauerholz of Ellis; two sisters, Mary Kay (Gene) Buinger of Aubrey, TX and Kerry Moore of North Augusta, SC; a brother-in-law, Ken Patry of Plattsmouth, NE; grandchildren, Jereme Hermann, Andrea (Josh) Hayes, Jake (Hannah) Wright, Julie (Jason) Schmidt, Christina Wright, Kaitlyn (Tyler) Swarthout, Harley Wright, John Lehner, Kassi Brown, Mackenzie Wright and her great grandchildren, Nevaeh, Skyler and Braelynn. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Jerry Patry, and a brother-in-law, Richard Moore. Funeral services will be 2:30&nbsp;PM Friday, October 30, 2020, at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601. Burial will follow in the Natoma City Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday 1 PM until service time at the funeral chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Chrysler Boyhood Home in Ellis. Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603906033894.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nancy “Bunny” Wright, age 77, of Ellis, Kansas, passed away Monday, October 26, 2020, at Hays Medical Center. She was born November 19, 1942, in Holton, Kansas, to Glenn D. and Vivian (Hallauer) Mapes. She graduated from Natoma High School in 1960. She completed floral classes in the early '60s. &nbsp;Nancy was a florist throughout her life.&nbsp; Her first shop was in Natoma.&nbsp; Nancy worked as an administrative assistant in the oil industry for 10 years before returning to her passion as a florist. She owned and operated the Ellis Flower Shop for over 20 years. During that time she was a member of the Kansas State Floral Association where she received many awards including a Master Designer Award and later was a member of their board. Nancy was a Rainbow Girl and later in the Order of Eastern Star for several years.&nbsp; She was heavily involved in the Ellis community where she served on the Chrysler Boyhood Home Board, Alpha Rho, Epsilon Sigma Alpha, VFW Auxiliary. Nancy was instrumental in starting up the Ellis Main Street Association and served as a founding member. Nancy is survived by two sons, Glenn (Diane) Wright of Grand Junction, CO and Kenneth (Ginnie) Wright of Cunningham, KS; a daughter, Alisa (Carl) Grauerholz of Ellis; two sisters, Mary Kay (Gene) Buinger of Aubrey, TX and Kerry Moore of North Augusta, SC; a brother-in-law, Ken Patry of Plattsmouth, NE; grandchildren, Jereme Hermann, Andrea (Josh) Hayes, Jake (Hannah) Wright, Julie (Jason) Schmidt, Christina Wright, Kaitlyn (Tyler) Swarthout, Harley Wright, John Lehner, Kassi Brown, Mackenzie Wright and her great grandchildren, Nevaeh, Skyler and Braelynn. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Jerry Patry, and a brother-in-law, Richard Moore. Funeral services will be 2:30&nbsp;PM Friday, October 30, 2020, at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601. Burial will follow in the Natoma City Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday 1 PM until service time at the funeral chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Chrysler Boyhood Home in Ellis. Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>

Nancy 'Bunny' Wright

Friday, January 3rd, 1936-Tuesday, October 27th, 2020

An obituary and services are pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Friday, January 3rd, 1936-Tuesday, October 27th, 2020An obituary and services are pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Leslie Roger Crusch

Thyra M. (Scharff) DeMarco, 87, of Russell, KS passed away Thursday, 
October 22, 2020, at Parkview Care Center in Osborne, KS. &nbsp;On July 6, 
1933, Thyra was born to William &amp; Emma (Wobb) Scharff in Coroapolis,
 PA.

She graduated from Coroapolis High School in 1951 in Coroapolis, PA. 
&nbsp;She&nbsp;later married Frank A. DeMarco in 1960 &amp; to this union 3 
children were born. &nbsp;Thyra &amp; her family moved to Russell, KS in 1968
 where she lived, worked &amp; raised her family.

Thyra retired in 2010 from Klema IGA where she worked for 38 years.

She was a Born Again Christian &amp; attended the Bible Baptist 
Church in Russell&nbsp;for many years &amp; embraced &amp; loved the people 
there as her extended family.

Thyra (also known as the World's Greatest Steeler Fan by all who knew
 her) was much loved by family &amp; friends. &nbsp;She was a devoted mother 
&amp; friend.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers &amp; 5 sisters.

Thyra is survived by sons: Anthony (Dana) DeMarco of Wichita, KS; 
Michael of Russell, KS; daughter: Doris (Steve) Waugh of Osborne, KS; 3 
grandchildren &amp; 5 great-grandchildren; sister: Emma (Bob) Bishop of 
Indiana.

Click <a href="https://www.clarkgashawfh.com/obituary/Thyra-DeMarco">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603899749160.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thyra M. (Scharff) DeMarco, 87, of Russell, KS passed away Thursday, 
October 22, 2020, at Parkview Care Center in Osborne, KS. &nbsp;On July 6, 
1933, Thyra was born to William &amp; Emma (Wobb) Scharff in Coroapolis,
 PA.She graduated from Coroapolis High School in 1951 in Coroapolis, PA. 
&nbsp;She&nbsp;later married Frank A. DeMarco in 1960 &amp; to this union 3 
children were born. &nbsp;Thyra &amp; her family moved to Russell, KS in 1968
 where she lived, worked &amp; raised her family.Thyra retired in 2010 from Klema IGA where she worked for 38 years.She was a Born Again Christian &amp; attended the Bible Baptist 
Church in Russell&nbsp;for many years &amp; embraced &amp; loved the people 
there as her extended family.Thyra (also known as the World's Greatest Steeler Fan by all who knew
 her) was much loved by family &amp; friends. &nbsp;She was a devoted mother 
&amp; friend.She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers &amp; 5 sisters.Thyra is survived by sons: Anthony (Dana) DeMarco of Wichita, KS; 
Michael of Russell, KS; daughter: Doris (Steve) Waugh of Osborne, KS; 3 
grandchildren &amp; 5 great-grandchildren; sister: Emma (Bob) Bishop of 
Indiana.Click <a href="https://www.clarkgashawfh.com/obituary/Thyra-DeMarco">HERE</a> for service details.

Thyra M. (Scharff) DeMarco

Robert Dale Howard, 66, passed away Saturday, October 24, 2020, at 
his home in Amarillo, Texas.&nbsp; He was born July 10, 1954, in Great Bend, 
Kansas, the son of Bobby and Helen (Nickerson) Howard.&nbsp; He was united in
 marriage to Jane Johnson on October 9, 1977.&nbsp; They later divorced.&nbsp;

Robert was a longtime resident of Great Bend, Kansas before moving to
 Las Vegas, Nevada in 2005 and Amarillo, Texas in 2016.&nbsp; Robert worked 
for Snap-On Tools, before becoming a truck driver and then the manager 
of Wonderland RV Park.&nbsp; Robert enjoyed hunting and sports, but what he 
loved the most, was spending time with family and friends, especially 
his children and grandchildren.&nbsp;

Survivors include, a son, Bart Howard and wife Brooke of Amarillo, 
Texas; two brothers, Darrell Howard and wife Donna of Cottonwood, 
Arizona, and Russell Howard and wife Ramona of Larned, Kansas; three 
sisters, Elizabeth Rahm and husband David of Cottonwood, Arizona, 
Barbara Weber of Okeene, Oklahoma, Sharon Poirior and husband Paul of 
Wichita, Kansas; and three grandchildren, Hadley, Jax and Cohen Howard 
of Amarillo, Texas.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents; and a son,
 Mason Howard.

Cremation has taken place and the family will greet friends from 
10:30 a.m. until service time at 11:00 a.m., Monday, November 2, 2020, 
at Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp; Burial will follow at Great Bend Cemetery.&nbsp; 
Memorials are suggested to the American Foundation for Suicide 
Prevention, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. 

Robert Dale Howard, 66, passed away Saturday, October 24, 2020, at 
his home in Amarillo, Texas.&nbsp; He was born July 10, 1954, in Great Bend, 
Kansas, the son of Bobby and Helen (Nickerson) Howard.&nbsp; He was united in
 marriage to Jane Johnson on October 9, 1977.&nbsp; They later divorced.&nbsp;Robert was a longtime resident of Great Bend, Kansas before moving to
 Las Vegas, Nevada in 2005 and Amarillo, Texas in 2016.&nbsp; Robert worked 
for Snap-On Tools, before becoming a truck driver and then the manager 
of Wonderland RV Park.&nbsp; Robert enjoyed hunting and sports, but what he 
loved the most, was spending time with family and friends, especially 
his children and grandchildren.&nbsp;Survivors include, a son, Bart Howard and wife Brooke of Amarillo, 
Texas; two brothers, Darrell Howard and wife Donna of Cottonwood, 
Arizona, and Russell Howard and wife Ramona of Larned, Kansas; three 
sisters, Elizabeth Rahm and husband David of Cottonwood, Arizona, 
Barbara Weber of Okeene, Oklahoma, Sharon Poirior and husband Paul of 
Wichita, Kansas; and three grandchildren, Hadley, Jax and Cohen Howard 
of Amarillo, Texas.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents; and a son,
 Mason Howard.Cremation has taken place and the family will greet friends from 
10:30 a.m. until service time at 11:00 a.m., Monday, November 2, 2020, 
at Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp; Burial will follow at Great Bend Cemetery.&nbsp; 
Memorials are suggested to the American Foundation for Suicide 
Prevention, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Robert Dale Howard

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City area over the past week recorded its highest number of deaths over a one-week period, with more than 80 people dying from COVID-19.

Missouri is among several states across the U.S. seeing a spike in confirmed cases and hospitalizations related to the coronavirus. The state health department on Tuesday announced 1,695 additional confirmed cases and 28 more deaths. The state has reported 172,717 cases and 2,838 deaths since the pandemic began.

Hospitalizations statewide remain high, with 1,407 people in Missouri hospitals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 illnesses as of Saturday, the most recent date available.

&nbsp;Kansas City along with Jackson, Clay and Platte counties in Missouri and Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas has recorded 735 deaths since the pandemic began. But The most recent seven-day period was the most deadly.

The health department reported 81 deaths for the period of Oct. 20-26, and 163 deaths since the start of October.

“We are now what looks like moving into our third wave of this outbreak and that’s very, very concerning,” said Rex Archer, director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We’re very concerned about this surge and as we move more and more indoors, this is going to become even more problematic.”

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Kansas City area over the past week recorded its highest number of deaths over a one-week period, with more than 80 people dying from COVID-19.Missouri is among several states across the U.S. seeing a spike in confirmed cases and hospitalizations related to the coronavirus. The state health department on Tuesday announced 1,695 additional confirmed cases and 28 more deaths. The state has reported 172,717 cases and 2,838 deaths since the pandemic began.Hospitalizations statewide remain high, with 1,407 people in Missouri hospitals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 illnesses as of Saturday, the most recent date available.&nbsp;Kansas City along with Jackson, Clay and Platte counties in Missouri and Johnson and Wyandotte counties in Kansas has recorded 735 deaths since the pandemic began. But The most recent seven-day period was the most deadly.The health department reported 81 deaths for the period of Oct. 20-26, and 163 deaths since the start of October.“We are now what looks like moving into our third wave of this outbreak and that’s very, very concerning,” said Rex Archer, director of the Kansas City Health Department. “We’re very concerned about this surge and as we move more and more indoors, this is going to become even more problematic.”

Kansas City sees record number of virus deaths 

Francis Andrew Younger, 79, passed away
 Saturday, October 24, 2020, at Clear Creek Care Center in Westminster, 
Co.&nbsp; He was a longtime resident of Syracuse, KS.&nbsp;

To friends and family, he was known as Frank.

He was born October 18, 1941, in 
Victoria, Kansas, the son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Mermis) Younger. 
Frank was the youngest of eight siblings.&nbsp; While growing up he helped 
work the family farm and was active in sports: rotating between 
football, basketball and baseball. As was the case with each of his 
older brothers, Frank displayed the most talent and passion at baseball;
 he had a reputation as a crafty pitcher, and threw a number of 
no-hitter games while playing in the local leagues around Hays, Kansas.

Frank joined the Kansas National Guard 
after High School and attended Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; He later 
settled in Salina, Kansas, after finding employment at Beech Aircraft. 
&nbsp;It was in Salina that he would also meet his future wife, Carla 
(Pfefferkorn) Younger, and they would have three children: Lori, 
Rebecca, and Matthew.

After the Beech plant closed in 1981, 
he moved his family to Syracuse, Kansas, where he became a proud 
employee of the Kansas Department of Transportation for the next 24 
years. &nbsp;Frank began his employment with KDOT as an Equipment Operator, 
and advanced to the position of Engineering Technician before retiring 
in 2007.

He also gave a total of 23 years of honorable service to the Kansas National Guard, retiring in 2001.

Frank was an active member of St. 
Raphael’s Catholic Church, where he was also a longtime member of the 
Syracuse council of the Knights of Columbus.&nbsp; He was involved in the 
Syracuse Lions Club, and for many years was a reliable and proud 
participant in the Syracuse Veterans Day parade. &nbsp;

In his spare time, he enjoyed gardening
 and woodworking. He remained an avid sports fan and spectator his 
entire life, with KU and KSU being among his favorite teams.&nbsp; His 
weekend routine always revolved around being free at game time.

Francis was preceded in death by his 
parents, two brothers; Ralph Younger and Cletus Younger and his wife 
Rose, three sisters; Irene Linenberger and husband Paul, Bernice 
McMillan and husband Don, and Marilyn Prewo.&nbsp;

He is survived by his wife; Carla 
(Pfefferkorn) Younger of Overland Park, KS, two daughters; Lori Strella 
and husband Scott of Olathe, KS, and Rebecca Malleck and husband Tony of
 Henderson, CO, &nbsp;one son; Matthew Younger of Rogers, AR, three 
granddaughters; Ashley Strella of Wichita, KS and Abby Strella and Ava 
Strella of Olathe, KS, one brother; Nathan Younger of Commerce City, Co,
 one sister; Geraldine Ruder of Hays, KS, and one brother-in-law; Tom 
Prewo of Hays, KS.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 
10:00 am on Friday, October 30, 2020 at The Basilica of St. Fidelis in 
Victoria with Fr. James Moster officiating. &nbsp;Visitation will be from 
5:00 pm until 7:00 on Thursday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in 
Hays and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday at The Basilica.&nbsp; A vigil 
service and rosary will be at 6:30 pm on Thursday at the funeral home.&nbsp; 
Inurnment with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard 
will be in St. Fidelis Cemetery at a later date.&nbsp; Memorials are 
suggested to the Knights of Columbus Annual Appeal.&nbsp; Condolences and 
memories of Frank may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603820690697.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Francis Andrew Younger, 79, passed away
 Saturday, October 24, 2020, at Clear Creek Care Center in Westminster, 
Co.&nbsp; He was a longtime resident of Syracuse, KS.&nbsp;To friends and family, he was known as Frank.He was born October 18, 1941, in 
Victoria, Kansas, the son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Mermis) Younger. 
Frank was the youngest of eight siblings.&nbsp; While growing up he helped 
work the family farm and was active in sports: rotating between 
football, basketball and baseball. As was the case with each of his 
older brothers, Frank displayed the most talent and passion at baseball;
 he had a reputation as a crafty pitcher, and threw a number of 
no-hitter games while playing in the local leagues around Hays, Kansas.Frank joined the Kansas National Guard 
after High School and attended Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; He later 
settled in Salina, Kansas, after finding employment at Beech Aircraft. 
&nbsp;It was in Salina that he would also meet his future wife, Carla 
(Pfefferkorn) Younger, and they would have three children: Lori, 
Rebecca, and Matthew.After the Beech plant closed in 1981, 
he moved his family to Syracuse, Kansas, where he became a proud 
employee of the Kansas Department of Transportation for the next 24 
years. &nbsp;Frank began his employment with KDOT as an Equipment Operator, 
and advanced to the position of Engineering Technician before retiring 
in 2007.He also gave a total of 23 years of honorable service to the Kansas National Guard, retiring in 2001.Frank was an active member of St. 
Raphael’s Catholic Church, where he was also a longtime member of the 
Syracuse council of the Knights of Columbus.&nbsp; He was involved in the 
Syracuse Lions Club, and for many years was a reliable and proud 
participant in the Syracuse Veterans Day parade. &nbsp;In his spare time, he enjoyed gardening
 and woodworking. He remained an avid sports fan and spectator his 
entire life, with KU and KSU being among his favorite teams.&nbsp; His 
weekend routine always revolved around being free at game time.Francis was preceded in death by his 
parents, two brothers; Ralph Younger and Cletus Younger and his wife 
Rose, three sisters; Irene Linenberger and husband Paul, Bernice 
McMillan and husband Don, and Marilyn Prewo.&nbsp;He is survived by his wife; Carla 
(Pfefferkorn) Younger of Overland Park, KS, two daughters; Lori Strella 
and husband Scott of Olathe, KS, and Rebecca Malleck and husband Tony of
 Henderson, CO, &nbsp;one son; Matthew Younger of Rogers, AR, three 
granddaughters; Ashley Strella of Wichita, KS and Abby Strella and Ava 
Strella of Olathe, KS, one brother; Nathan Younger of Commerce City, Co,
 one sister; Geraldine Ruder of Hays, KS, and one brother-in-law; Tom 
Prewo of Hays, KS.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 
10:00 am on Friday, October 30, 2020 at The Basilica of St. Fidelis in 
Victoria with Fr. James Moster officiating. &nbsp;Visitation will be from 
5:00 pm until 7:00 on Thursday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in 
Hays and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday at The Basilica.&nbsp; A vigil 
service and rosary will be at 6:30 pm on Thursday at the funeral home.&nbsp; 
Inurnment with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard 
will be in St. Fidelis Cemetery at a later date.&nbsp; Memorials are 
suggested to the Knights of Columbus Annual Appeal.&nbsp; Condolences and 
memories of Frank may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

Francis A. 'Frank' Younger

The National Weather Service is calling for a slight chance of freezing rain overnight Tuesday — with more winter weather on the way Wednesday and Thursday.&nbsp;

Precipitation will move northward overnight, beginning as snow, then changing to rain or sleet by sunrise Wednesday morning. The NWS is calling for a 50 percent chance of rain or freezing rain Wednesday morning, increasing to 80 percent in the afternoon. As temperatures fall after sunrise, precipitation is expected to change to snow – with a half-inch of new snow possible.

On Thursday, there is a 60 percent chance of rain or snow before noon, tapering off to 30 percent as the day progresses. Skies are expected to clear Thursday evening.

Icy conditions are expected to to be primary hazard from the front.

A high temperature of 48 on Thursday and a low of 26 on Tuesday night is projected.

Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for&nbsp; the latest on cancellations and delays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603824770702.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service is calling for a slight chance of freezing rain overnight Tuesday — with more winter weather on the way Wednesday and Thursday.&nbsp;Precipitation will move northward overnight, beginning as snow, then changing to rain or sleet by sunrise Wednesday morning. The NWS is calling for a 50 percent chance of rain or freezing rain Wednesday morning, increasing to 80 percent in the afternoon. As temperatures fall after sunrise, precipitation is expected to change to snow – with a half-inch of new snow possible.On Thursday, there is a 60 percent chance of rain or snow before noon, tapering off to 30 percent as the day progresses. Skies are expected to clear Thursday evening.Icy conditions are expected to to be primary hazard from the front.A high temperature of 48 on Thursday and a low of 26 on Tuesday night is projected.Check Hays Post and tune into your Eagle Radio of Hays stations for&nbsp; the latest on cancellations and delays.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Cold and cloudy overnight as freezing rain pushes out of Oklahoma into far southern counties into the morning hours, mainly impacting areas south of the Hwy 400/54 corridors. <a href="https://t.co/LyXgBpSeq9">pic.twitter.com/LyXgBpSeq9</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1321152454466117634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: More wintry weather moving into the area

Ronald “Ron” Lynn Drake, 63, passed away October 26, 2020, at the 
University Of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus. He was born July
 17, 1957, at Farmington, New Mexico, to John &amp; Mary (Campbell) 
Drake. He was married to Marcia Kite for 32 years and they later 
divorced. He married Dana Scothorn July 10, 2010 at Great Bend. She 
survives.

A lifetime Great Bend resident, Ron was the owner of Drake’s Lawn 
Service for over 40 years. He was an avid hunter, a great cook, he loved
 to play all different sports, tell stories, and was an Elvis fan. He 
knew how to put a smile on your face and especially loved spending time 
with his family and grandchildren.

Survivors include, his wife Dana Drake, and son, Jace Drake, both of 
the home; two daughters, Alicia Mong and husband Bryan of Sand Springs, 
Okla., and Melissa “Rooney” Edmonson and husband Jesse of Hutchinson; 
two stepsons, Justin Scothorn of Great Bend, and Jonathan Scothorn of 
Hutchinson; a brother, John Drake and wife Sandy of Lakeland, Fla.; and 
five grandchildren, Madison Galemore and husband Jerry, Alexis "Lexy" 
Montoya and fiancé Jacob Stanley, Raylynn Mong, Aaron Edmonson, and 
Austin Edmonson. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, 
October 29, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends
 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 p.m., 
Friday, October 30, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Amy Foster
 presiding. Interment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery. In lieu of 
flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Jace Drake 
Education Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603820723963.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ronald “Ron” Lynn Drake, 63, passed away October 26, 2020, at the 
University Of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus. He was born July
 17, 1957, at Farmington, New Mexico, to John &amp; Mary (Campbell) 
Drake. He was married to Marcia Kite for 32 years and they later 
divorced. He married Dana Scothorn July 10, 2010 at Great Bend. She 
survives.A lifetime Great Bend resident, Ron was the owner of Drake’s Lawn 
Service for over 40 years. He was an avid hunter, a great cook, he loved
 to play all different sports, tell stories, and was an Elvis fan. He 
knew how to put a smile on your face and especially loved spending time 
with his family and grandchildren.Survivors include, his wife Dana Drake, and son, Jace Drake, both of 
the home; two daughters, Alicia Mong and husband Bryan of Sand Springs, 
Okla., and Melissa “Rooney” Edmonson and husband Jesse of Hutchinson; 
two stepsons, Justin Scothorn of Great Bend, and Jonathan Scothorn of 
Hutchinson; a brother, John Drake and wife Sandy of Lakeland, Fla.; and 
five grandchildren, Madison Galemore and husband Jerry, Alexis "Lexy" 
Montoya and fiancé Jacob Stanley, Raylynn Mong, Aaron Edmonson, and 
Austin Edmonson. He was preceded in death by his parents.Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, 
October 29, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends
 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 p.m., 
Friday, October 30, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Amy Foster
 presiding. Interment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery. In lieu of 
flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Jace Drake 
Education Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Ronald 'Ron' Lynn Drake

Billie Jean Keck, 93, of Colby, died Friday, October 23, 2020, at 
Citizens Medical Center. 

She was born May 10, 1927, in Spearville, KS, 
to Ray and Esther (Glaze) Railing. Billie graduated from Dodge City 
Senior High in 1945 and then attended Dodge City Community College. On 
November 28, 1948, she married Bill Keck in Dodge City. 

Billie was a 
homemaker until the family moved to Colby in 1969. After an extensive 
building remodel, Bill and Billie owned and operated the Gambles store 
and Colby True Value in downtown Colby. In 1994 they sold the store to 
their son David. In her free time, Billie enjoyed sewing, playing games, 
most of all Bridge with friends, and gardening. She especially loved 
playing games with her family. She was a member of the Colby United 
Methodist Church. 
Billie was preceded in death by her parents; husband Bill and son Mike; and sister Deane Turley. 
She is survived by her sons, Alan (Linda), Venice, FL and David (Terri),
 of Colby; brother, Larry (Carrol) Railing, Ocala, FL; grandchildren, 
Kari Keck, Casey (Jessica) Keck, Stacy Keck, Colter Keck and Kaylee 
(Seth) Hennes and great grandson Aidan Keck. 
Services are pending at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603820615343.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Billie Jean Keck, 93, of Colby, died Friday, October 23, 2020, at 
Citizens Medical Center. She was born May 10, 1927, in Spearville, KS, 
to Ray and Esther (Glaze) Railing. Billie graduated from Dodge City 
Senior High in 1945 and then attended Dodge City Community College. On 
November 28, 1948, she married Bill Keck in Dodge City. Billie was a 
homemaker until the family moved to Colby in 1969. After an extensive 
building remodel, Bill and Billie owned and operated the Gambles store 
and Colby True Value in downtown Colby. In 1994 they sold the store to 
their son David. In her free time, Billie enjoyed sewing, playing games, 
most of all Bridge with friends, and gardening. She especially loved 
playing games with her family. She was a member of the Colby United 
Methodist Church. 
Billie was preceded in death by her parents; husband Bill and son Mike; and sister Deane Turley. 
She is survived by her sons, Alan (Linda), Venice, FL and David (Terri),
 of Colby; brother, Larry (Carrol) Railing, Ocala, FL; grandchildren, 
Kari Keck, Casey (Jessica) Keck, Stacy Keck, Colter Keck and Kaylee 
(Seth) Hennes and great grandson Aidan Keck. 
Services are pending at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Billie Jean Keck 

Dora Belle (Brian) Hopson, 87, of Colby, died Monday, October 26, 2020, 
at Citizens Medical Center. She was born September 24, 1933, in Lyndon, 
KS, to Leroy and Thela (Seigal) Brian. She attended school in 
Brownville, KS and Brewster, KS, where she graduated from high school. 
She married Charles Hopson in May 1974. 
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Charles; brothers,
 Philip Brian and Ray Brian; sister, Sharon Brian; step-son Dwight 
Hopson and step-grandson Chuckie Hopson. 
She is survived by her children, Janet Hopson, of Colby, Darren (Cheri) 
Hopson, of Colby; siblings, Eugene (Betty) Brian, of Norton, Robert 
(Sharon) Brian of Florida, Dona Plantz, of Topeka, Mary (Bill) Torbit, 
of Mesa, AZ, and sister-in-law, Phyllis Brian, of Hutchinson, KS; 
step-children, Sharon (Hopson) Taylor, of San Antonio, TX, Wesley 
(Kathleen) Hopson, of Loveland, CO, Lesley (Teresa) Hopson, of Bethune, 
CO; 3 grandchildren, 7 step-grandchildren; 14 step-great grandchildren, 
and 2 step great great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. 
A graveside service will be held at Beulah Cemetery, Colby, at 10:00 
a.m. Friday, October 30, 2020. In lieu of flowers, Dora requested 
donations to the Colby VFW Women’s Auxiliary or any diabetes or Down 
Syndrome foundation. Memorials can be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary,
 PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. Online condolences: 
www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603815769357.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dora Belle (Brian) Hopson, 87, of Colby, died Monday, October 26, 2020, 
at Citizens Medical Center. She was born September 24, 1933, in Lyndon, 
KS, to Leroy and Thela (Seigal) Brian. She attended school in 
Brownville, KS and Brewster, KS, where she graduated from high school. 
She married Charles Hopson in May 1974. 
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Charles; brothers,
 Philip Brian and Ray Brian; sister, Sharon Brian; step-son Dwight 
Hopson and step-grandson Chuckie Hopson. 
She is survived by her children, Janet Hopson, of Colby, Darren (Cheri) 
Hopson, of Colby; siblings, Eugene (Betty) Brian, of Norton, Robert 
(Sharon) Brian of Florida, Dona Plantz, of Topeka, Mary (Bill) Torbit, 
of Mesa, AZ, and sister-in-law, Phyllis Brian, of Hutchinson, KS; 
step-children, Sharon (Hopson) Taylor, of San Antonio, TX, Wesley 
(Kathleen) Hopson, of Loveland, CO, Lesley (Teresa) Hopson, of Bethune, 
CO; 3 grandchildren, 7 step-grandchildren; 14 step-great grandchildren, 
and 2 step great great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. 
A graveside service will be held at Beulah Cemetery, Colby, at 10:00 
a.m. Friday, October 30, 2020. In lieu of flowers, Dora requested 
donations to the Colby VFW Women’s Auxiliary or any diabetes or Down 
Syndrome foundation. Memorials can be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary,
 PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. Online condolences: 
www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Dora Belle Hopson

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/25/university-of-kansas-research-county-mask-mandates-stall-major-rise-in-covid-19/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Researchers at 
the University of Kansas report counties with mask mandates thwarted 
significant escalation in transmission of COVID-19 and counties 
operating without a requirement people wear a face covering suffered 
steady infection rate increases.

Elected county government 
leaders in 80 Kansas counties rejected the order issued in July by Gov. 
Laura Kelly mandating every Kansas resident to wear a mask in public 
places where 6 feet of social distancing couldn’t be maintained. Four 
Kansas counties stopped short of rebuking the governor, choosing to 
decline to enforce Kelly’s mask order.

Twenty-one counties in 
Kansas maintain a mask mandate, including Sedgwick County, which adopted
 the rule in September after the virus flared in southcentral Kansas. 
Sedgwick was among 11 counties to belatedly come on board with a mask 
edict.

Donna Ginther, a 
distinguished professor of economics and director of KU’s Institute for 
Policy and Social Research, said research showed Kansas counties with a 
mask mandate could expect seven fewer cases per day for every 100,000 
people.

Adherence to the 
governor’s mask mandate in Johnson County is associated with 6.5 to 8.5 
fewer cases per day for every 100,000 population, she said.

“Cases in counties with a 
mask mandate stopped increasing. They didn’t go away. They stopped 
increasing,” Ginther said. “And, cases in counties without a mandate, 
starting in mid-August, just kind of went crazy.”

The KU researchers 
demonstrated Kansas counties without the mask order experienced a surge 
in coronavirus infection rates that climbed from about 10 cases per 
100,0000 in July to nearly 40 cases per 100,000 in October. The number 
of cases for counties covered by the mask order plateaued since July at 
around 20 cases per 100,000.

COVID-19 can be spread 
through exposure to virus-containing respiratory droplets exhaled by a 
person. Transmission is most likely to occur when someone is within 6 
feet of the virus carrier.

Kelly said recently the 
rising coronavirus caseloads in Kansas prompted her to suggest 
negotiations with Republican and Democratic leaders of the House and 
Senate on a new statewide mask directive. She said the conversations 
should occur prior to the Nov. 3 election and acknowledged some GOP 
legislators might have a tough time selling a statewide order.

As of Friday, the Kansas 
Department of Health and Environment reported 76,230 cases of 
coronavirus the state. In addition, there had been 3,584 
hospitalizations and 975 deaths from COVID-19.

Non-pharmaceutical public 
health interventions espoused by Kelly, including stay-at-home orders, 
testing and contact tracing, limits on mass gatherings and wearing of 
masks, had a mixed reception from the public and elected officials in 
the state’s 105 counties in Kansas. There is no approved vaccine against
 COVID-19 and few pharmaceutical options for treatment of the 
coronavirus.

“Some people think that 
government is a problem. But when an international crisis like COVID-19 
takes place, we look to government for solutions,” Ginther said.

A new article by 
researchers at the University of Washington published in the journal 
Nature Medicine estimated a near-universal adherence to mask wearing 
throughout the United States could save 130,000 lives by the end of 
February.

Christopher Murray, 
director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at UW, said a
 modeling study showed 510,000 Americans could be lost in the next four 
months to the pandemic.

However, the researchers 
said 129,000 of those lives could be saved if 95% of the population in 
each state consistently wore a mask when in public.

Eric Hargan, deputy 
secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said 
during a visit Friday to University of Kansas Health System in Kansas 
City, Kan., that simple public health precautions were necessary to 
bridge the gap to development of an effective vaccine and new therapy 
responsible to COVID-19.

When asked about the 
perspective of HHS officials on mask wearing, Hargan said the 
administration of President Donald Trump didn’t have authority to compel
 state and local health officials to impose a mask mandate.

“We don’t actually have 
the kind of power that I think people might imagine we have interms of 
requiring a mask across the entire country,” Hargan said.

Trump has shown disdain 
for people wearing a mask. He frequently avoided wearing a mask before 
and after the White House announced the president tested positive for 
COVID-19 in early October.

A pair of prominent 
doctors at the University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City, 
Kansas, said wearing a mask was among the best preventative measures 
available. Physicians Dana Hawkinson and Steve Stites said masks, social
 distancing, hand washing and limiting exposure to potentially infected 
people to no more than 15 minutes were good strategies.

“We know that cases are 
going up. Hospitalizations follow cases. Mortality follows 
hospitalizations,” said Hawkinson, medical director of infection 
prevention and control at KU Health System. “Just have a mask on.”

Stites, chief medical 
officer at KU Health Systems, said mask skeptics should take advantage 
of freezing weather to experiment with how far their breath cloud 
traveled outside when wearing and not wearing a mask.

“Go outside. Take a deep 
breath. Blow out,” he said. “Put your mask on. Do the same thing. Now, 
tell me, where’s your breath cloud? Where does it go when you put a mask
 on?”

Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603807569639.png" alt="Kansas politicians have different attitudes about wearing masks to prevent spread of COVID-19. At this Oct. 4 event in El Dorado, Rep. Will Carpenter, left, chose not to wear a mask, while Attorney General Derek Schmidt, center, Kansas House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins and U.S. Rep. Ron Estes wore a mask. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas politicians have different attitudes about wearing masks to prevent spread of COVID-19. At this Oct. 4 event in El Dorado, Rep. Will Carpenter, left, chose not to wear a mask, while Attorney General Derek Schmidt, center, Kansas House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins and U.S. Rep. Ron Estes wore a mask. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/10/25/university-of-kansas-research-county-mask-mandates-stall-major-rise-in-covid-19/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Researchers at 
the University of Kansas report counties with mask mandates thwarted 
significant escalation in transmission of COVID-19 and counties 
operating without a requirement people wear a face covering suffered 
steady infection rate increases.Elected county government 
leaders in 80 Kansas counties rejected the order issued in July by Gov. 
Laura Kelly mandating every Kansas resident to wear a mask in public 
places where 6 feet of social distancing couldn’t be maintained. Four 
Kansas counties stopped short of rebuking the governor, choosing to 
decline to enforce Kelly’s mask order.Twenty-one counties in 
Kansas maintain a mask mandate, including Sedgwick County, which adopted
 the rule in September after the virus flared in southcentral Kansas. 
Sedgwick was among 11 counties to belatedly come on board with a mask 
edict.Donna Ginther, a 
distinguished professor of economics and director of KU’s Institute for 
Policy and Social Research, said research showed Kansas counties with a 
mask mandate could expect seven fewer cases per day for every 100,000 
people.Adherence to the 
governor’s mask mandate in Johnson County is associated with 6.5 to 8.5 
fewer cases per day for every 100,000 population, she said.“Cases in counties with a 
mask mandate stopped increasing. They didn’t go away. They stopped 
increasing,” Ginther said. “And, cases in counties without a mandate, 
starting in mid-August, just kind of went crazy.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603807616970.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly said the ongoing growth of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and fatalities tied to COVID-19 inspired her to propose talks with leaders of the Kansas Legislature to determine if a compromise statewide mask mandate could be found. Three-fourths of Kansas counties rejected her July mask mandate. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly said the ongoing growth of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and fatalities tied to COVID-19 inspired her to propose talks with leaders of the Kansas Legislature to determine if a compromise statewide mask mandate could be found. Three-fourths of Kansas counties rejected her July mask mandate. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>The KU researchers 
demonstrated Kansas counties without the mask order experienced a surge 
in coronavirus infection rates that climbed from about 10 cases per 
100,0000 in July to nearly 40 cases per 100,000 in October. The number 
of cases for counties covered by the mask order plateaued since July at 
around 20 cases per 100,000.COVID-19 can be spread 
through exposure to virus-containing respiratory droplets exhaled by a 
person. Transmission is most likely to occur when someone is within 6 
feet of the virus carrier.Kelly said recently the 
rising coronavirus caseloads in Kansas prompted her to suggest 
negotiations with Republican and Democratic leaders of the House and 
Senate on a new statewide mask directive. She said the conversations 
should occur prior to the Nov. 3 election and acknowledged some GOP 
legislators might have a tough time selling a statewide order.As of Friday, the Kansas 
Department of Health and Environment reported 76,230 cases of 
coronavirus the state. In addition, there had been 3,584 
hospitalizations and 975 deaths from COVID-19.Non-pharmaceutical public 
health interventions espoused by Kelly, including stay-at-home orders, 
testing and contact tracing, limits on mass gatherings and wearing of 
masks, had a mixed reception from the public and elected officials in 
the state’s 105 counties in Kansas. There is no approved vaccine against
 COVID-19 and few pharmaceutical options for treatment of the 
coronavirus.“Some people think that 
government is a problem. But when an international crisis like COVID-19 
takes place, we look to government for solutions,” Ginther said.<h2>UW: Masks save lives</h2>A new article by 
researchers at the University of Washington published in the journal 
Nature Medicine estimated a near-universal adherence to mask wearing 
throughout the United States could save 130,000 lives by the end of 
February.Christopher Murray, 
director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at UW, said a
 modeling study showed 510,000 Americans could be lost in the next four 
months to the pandemic.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603807645928.jpeg" alt="Eric Hargan, deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said during a visit to Kansas City, Kansas, the administration of President Donald Trump didn’t have the authority to order state and local officials to enforce a national mask mandate. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Eric Hargan, deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said during a visit to Kansas City, Kansas, the administration of President Donald Trump didn’t have the authority to order state and local officials to enforce a national mask mandate. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>However, the researchers 
said 129,000 of those lives could be saved if 95% of the population in 
each state consistently wore a mask when in public.Eric Hargan, deputy 
secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said 
during a visit Friday to University of Kansas Health System in Kansas 
City, Kan., that simple public health precautions were necessary to 
bridge the gap to development of an effective vaccine and new therapy 
responsible to COVID-19.When asked about the 
perspective of HHS officials on mask wearing, Hargan said the 
administration of President Donald Trump didn’t have authority to compel
 state and local health officials to impose a mask mandate.“We don’t actually have 
the kind of power that I think people might imagine we have interms of 
requiring a mask across the entire country,” Hargan said.Trump has shown disdain 
for people wearing a mask. He frequently avoided wearing a mask before 
and after the White House announced the president tested positive for 
COVID-19 in early October.<h2>KU doctors’ view</h2>A pair of prominent 
doctors at the University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City, 
Kansas, said wearing a mask was among the best preventative measures 
available. Physicians Dana Hawkinson and Steve Stites said masks, social
 distancing, hand washing and limiting exposure to potentially infected 
people to no more than 15 minutes were good strategies.“We know that cases are 
going up. Hospitalizations follow cases. Mortality follows 
hospitalizations,” said Hawkinson, medical director of infection 
prevention and control at KU Health System. “Just have a mask on.”Stites, chief medical 
officer at KU Health Systems, said mask skeptics should take advantage 
of freezing weather to experiment with how far their breath cloud 
traveled outside when wearing and not wearing a mask.“Go outside. Take a deep 
breath. Blow out,” he said. “Put your mask on. Do the same thing. Now, 
tell me, where’s your breath cloud? Where does it go when you put a mask
 on?”Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.&nbsp;

KU research: County mask mandates stall major rise in COVID-19

October 29 is a fifth Thursday of the month. Therefore, there will not be a Hays City Commission work session that evening

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574093858004.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysOctober 29 is a fifth Thursday of the month. Therefore, there will not be a Hays City Commission work session that evening

No city commission work session Thursday

Clarence Verdell Young, 88, died on October 25, 2020, at his home in Tribune, Kansas.  He was born on September 20th, 1932, on the family farm NW of Tribune to Lon and Eleanor (Morgan) Young.  He grew up on that farm in Greeley County and attended grade school at Ruby Country School and then later at Mt. Olive Country School.  He attended Greeley County High School where he participated in 4-H, Basketball and Football.  Verdell was also an excellent student, graduating as Valedictorian in the class of 1951. 

Verdell met the love of his life Hazel Mote when they were in high school in Tribune.  They married 2 years later following her high school graduation on June 2nd 1953 in Weskan, Ks.  Three months after they were married Verdell was drafted into the army, where he served for 2 years, being honorably discharged in 1955 with the rank of sergeant.  Their first home was on the family farmstead 23 miles NW of Tribune.  8 years later they moved just a mile away and built a house of their own, where they raised 4 children; Jerry, Danny, Judy and Della. Verdell and Hazel had been married 67 years and hardly spent a day apart.

Farming was Verdell’s passion, he especially loved harvest and running a combine, which he did until the age of 85. He was also a rancher and loved feeding cattle.  Verdell was one of the original investor’s in Oxtown Cattle Feeders in Tribune, Ks, where he served on the board.  He also served on the Board of Directors for the First National Bank of Tribune and was a member of the Community of Christ church.

One of his greatest loves was spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He loved camping, trips to the mountains, the lake, stock car races, snow skiing, annual family trips to the National Western Stockshow, white water rafting, riding horses, sledding and softball games in the front yard.  His life was his family!

Verdell is survived by his wife Hazel, his children: Jerry Young and wife Joyce, Tribune; Judy Robertson and husband Mark, Tribune; Della Rambo and husband David, Overland Park, Ks.; a brother Ralph Young, Tribune; a sister Barbara Hoffman, Tribune; 9 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Vaughn Young; a sister Mae O’Dell and a son Danny Young.

Due to the Covid Virus, the services will just be for immediate and extended family only with Jay Young officiating. We know there are many of you that would love to attend the services, we would love to hear from you, please call, send a card or text. Thank you for your understanding.

The family suggests donations to the Verdell Young Memorial in care of Price &amp; Son Funeral Home, 322 2nd St. Tribune, Ks.

Burial will be in the Greeley County Cemetery in Tribune, Kansas.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Tribune, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603806152209.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clarence Verdell Young, 88, died on October 25, 2020, at his home in Tribune, Kansas. He was born on September 20th, 1932, on the family farm NW of Tribune to Lon and Eleanor (Morgan) Young. He grew up on that farm in Greeley County and attended grade school at Ruby Country School and then later at Mt. Olive Country School. He attended Greeley County High School where he participated in 4-H, Basketball and Football. Verdell was also an excellent student, graduating as Valedictorian in the class of 1951. Verdell met the love of his life Hazel Mote when they were in high school in Tribune. They married 2 years later following her high school graduation on June 2nd 1953 in Weskan, Ks. Three months after they were married Verdell was drafted into the army, where he served for 2 years, being honorably discharged in 1955 with the rank of sergeant. Their first home was on the family farmstead 23 miles NW of Tribune. 8 years later they moved just a mile away and built a house of their own, where they raised 4 children; Jerry, Danny, Judy and Della. Verdell and Hazel had been married 67 years and hardly spent a day apart.Farming was Verdell’s passion, he especially loved harvest and running a combine, which he did until the age of 85. He was also a rancher and loved feeding cattle. Verdell was one of the original investor’s in Oxtown Cattle Feeders in Tribune, Ks, where he served on the board. He also served on the Board of Directors for the First National Bank of Tribune and was a member of the Community of Christ church.One of his greatest loves was spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved camping, trips to the mountains, the lake, stock car races, snow skiing, annual family trips to the National Western Stockshow, white water rafting, riding horses, sledding and softball games in the front yard. His life was his family!Verdell is survived by his wife Hazel, his children: Jerry Young and wife Joyce, Tribune; Judy Robertson and husband Mark, Tribune; Della Rambo and husband David, Overland Park, Ks.; a brother Ralph Young, Tribune; a sister Barbara Hoffman, Tribune; 9 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Vaughn Young; a sister Mae O’Dell and a son Danny Young.Due to the Covid Virus, the services will just be for immediate and extended family only with Jay Young officiating. We know there are many of you that would love to attend the services, we would love to hear from you, please call, send a card or text. Thank you for your understanding.The family suggests donations to the Verdell Young Memorial in care of Price &amp; Son Funeral Home, 322 2nd St. Tribune, Ks.Burial will be in the Greeley County Cemetery in Tribune, Kansas.Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Tribune, Kansas.

Clarence Verdell Young

JoAnn R. (Nass) Holton, age 76, of Goodland passed away Saturday, October 24, 2020 at Topside Manor in Goodland. 
JoAnn was born September 6, 1944; her parents were Toney and Mary 
(Gibson) Nass.&nbsp; She attended grade school in Colorado Springs, Colorado 
and came to Goodland her Junior year of high school.&nbsp; On July 21, 1963, 
she married A.C. Holton in Goodland; to this union two children, Angie 
and Tina. 
JoAnn worked at Mulheim Jewelry, Gibsons, the Veterinary Clinic and 
Walmart.&nbsp; She was a member of the United Methodist Church and President 
of the local Diabetes Association.&nbsp; She enjoyed crafts, beading 
necklaces, antiques, her pets, and dearly loved spending time with her 
grandchildren and family. 
She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents; sister, Carol Rodgers and brother-in-law, Dee Rodgers. 
JoAnn is survived by her husband, A.C.; daughters, Angie (Travis) Witman
 of Goodland, KS and Tina (Chris) Rice of Cuba, KS; brothers, Rich 
(Donna) Nass of Aurora, CO; Bob (Shirley) Lamb of Goodland, and Michael 
Lamb of Goodland; grandchildren, Holton (Abbie) Witman of Topeka, KS, 
Rachel Witman of Goodland, Matthew, Nathan and Jacob Rice of Cuba, KS; 
and many more family members. 
Memorials may be designated to the American Diabetes Association and may
 be left at the service or sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home, P.O. 
Box 278, Goodland, KS&nbsp; 67735.&nbsp; For information and condolences visit&nbsp;www.batemanfuneral.com.

Click <a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/JoAnn-Holton">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603806033486.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JoAnn R. (Nass) Holton, age 76, of Goodland passed away Saturday, October 24, 2020 at Topside Manor in Goodland. 
JoAnn was born September 6, 1944; her parents were Toney and Mary 
(Gibson) Nass.&nbsp; She attended grade school in Colorado Springs, Colorado 
and came to Goodland her Junior year of high school.&nbsp; On July 21, 1963, 
she married A.C. Holton in Goodland; to this union two children, Angie 
and Tina. 
JoAnn worked at Mulheim Jewelry, Gibsons, the Veterinary Clinic and 
Walmart.&nbsp; She was a member of the United Methodist Church and President 
of the local Diabetes Association.&nbsp; She enjoyed crafts, beading 
necklaces, antiques, her pets, and dearly loved spending time with her 
grandchildren and family. 
She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents; sister, Carol Rodgers and brother-in-law, Dee Rodgers. 
JoAnn is survived by her husband, A.C.; daughters, Angie (Travis) Witman
 of Goodland, KS and Tina (Chris) Rice of Cuba, KS; brothers, Rich 
(Donna) Nass of Aurora, CO; Bob (Shirley) Lamb of Goodland, and Michael 
Lamb of Goodland; grandchildren, Holton (Abbie) Witman of Topeka, KS, 
Rachel Witman of Goodland, Matthew, Nathan and Jacob Rice of Cuba, KS; 
and many more family members. 
Memorials may be designated to the American Diabetes Association and may
 be left at the service or sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home, P.O. 
Box 278, Goodland, KS&nbsp; 67735.&nbsp; For information and condolences visit&nbsp;www.batemanfuneral.com.Click <a href="https://www.batemanfuneral.com/obituary/JoAnn-Holton">HERE</a> for service details.

JoAnn R. (Nass) Holton

Michael Holland, age 2 months, of Goodland passed away Thursday, 
October 22, 2020 at Goodland Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; Michael was born 
August 19, 2020 to Maria Flores and Michael Holland in Denver, 
Colorado.&nbsp;

He was preceded in death by his great-grandmother, Judy Taylor.&nbsp;

Michael is survived by his parents,&nbsp;Maria Flores and Michael 
Holland,&nbsp;twin sister, Nayelli of Goodland; grandmothers, Sheri Hommes of
 Goodland and Kathy Howe of Greeley, Colorado; grandfathers, Celso 
Flores of Mexico and Dan Holland of Loveland, CO;&nbsp;Godmother, Jaque 
Gilliland of Goodland and many other family and friends.&nbsp;

A memorial service will be&nbsp;held at a later date.&nbsp;

Memorials may be designated to Michael Holland Memorial Fund and may 
be sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home,&nbsp;P.O. Box 278, Goodland, KS&nbsp; 
67735.&nbsp; For information and condolences visit&nbsp;www.batemanfuneral.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603747354325.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Michael Holland, age 2 months, of Goodland passed away Thursday, 
October 22, 2020 at Goodland Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; Michael was born 
August 19, 2020 to Maria Flores and Michael Holland in Denver, 
Colorado.&nbsp;He was preceded in death by his great-grandmother, Judy Taylor.&nbsp;Michael is survived by his parents,&nbsp;Maria Flores and Michael 
Holland,&nbsp;twin sister, Nayelli of Goodland; grandmothers, Sheri Hommes of
 Goodland and Kathy Howe of Greeley, Colorado; grandfathers, Celso 
Flores of Mexico and Dan Holland of Loveland, CO;&nbsp;Godmother, Jaque 
Gilliland of Goodland and many other family and friends.&nbsp;A memorial service will be&nbsp;held at a later date.&nbsp;Memorials may be designated to Michael Holland Memorial Fund and may 
be sent in care of Bateman Funeral Home,&nbsp;P.O. Box 278, Goodland, KS&nbsp; 
67735.&nbsp; For information and condolences visit&nbsp;www.batemanfuneral.com

Michael Holland

Betty Jo Johns, age 88 died peacefully on October 23, 2020, at Concordia
 Life Plan Community in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, following a brief 
illness. 
 She was born May 1, 1932, in Manzanola, Colorado; the only child 
born to Galen and Edna Farris Baker. Betty Jo was raised in Manzanola, 
CO, and Friend, KS, before graduating from Garden City High School, 
Garden City KS, in 1949. She received her bachelor’s degree from 
McPherson College (KS) in 1954, and her master’s degree from the 
University of Northern Colorado in 1964. 
 She married Joseph H. Johns in 1954, and celebrated fifty-six years
 together prior to his passing in 2010. Betty Jo is preceded in death 
by her mother, Edna Hopkins, her father, Galen Baker, and her 
stepfather, Ben Hopkins. She is survived by her sons, Joel, of 
Edgerton, KS, and Brock, of Oklahoma City, OK, and spouses Julie and 
Tammy, respectively. She has three grandchildren: Tyler, Paige, and 
Claire. 
 Betty Jo was a lifelong fitness enthusiast, an advocate for women’s
 athletic competition, and a pioneer in the establishment of women’s 
sports in Western Kansas. She was instrumental in establishing the 
girl’s basketball and volleyball programs at Dighton (KS) High School 
between 1955-1958, and the women’s volleyball, basketball, tennis, and 
softball programs at Garden City Community College. She commemorated 
significant birthday milestones in her lifetime through athletic 
achievements. At age 40, she played 40 sets of tennis. When she turned
 45, Betty Jo bicycled 45 miles. On her 50th birthday, she ran 50 
kilometers. During Betty Jo’s 55th birthday, she played 55 games of 
racquetball, and at age 60, she walked 60 kilometers. Betty Jo 
participated in the Bicycle Across Kansas event for several years and 
truly enjoyed every windy, dusty mile she peddled with her friends. She
 is famous for distributing both peppernuts during the holidays and 
peanut butter krispie treats to the community, college faculty and her 
students. 
 In 2006, she was honored by her Alma Mater through induction into 
the McPherson College Athletic Hall of Fame following a 26 year 
teaching, coaching, and athletic career which included pitching for five
 state championship slow-pitch softball teams, participating in five 
national slow-pitch tournaments, and her contribution to the 
establishment of women’s sports at Garden City Community College In 
2007, she was similarly inducted into the Garden City Community College 
Athletic Hall of Fame for her dedication to the furtherance of women’s 
athletic competition. 
 Following retirement, Betty Jo enjoyed volunteering at the Finney 
County Historical Society and the Garden City Travel Plaza, in addition 
to writing and painting. 
 Betty Jo’s priorities were simple: her family, her friends, and her
 students, many whom became her extended family and all of whom she 
insisted call her Betty Jo. Until her health prevented it, she 
maintained a close relationship with her college roommates from Arnold 
Hall at McPherson College. In the end, she said her preferred title was
 mom and grandma. 
 Visitation is to be held on Thursday, October 29th, from 2:00 p.m. 
to 8:00 p.m. and Friday, October 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at 
Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. A graveside service and burial 
will be held on Friday, October 30th, at 1:30 p.m., at the Prairie View 
Church of the Brethren Cemetery in Friend, KS. The family suggests 
memorials given to the Garden City Community College Endowment 
Association in care of the funeral home.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603805932536.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Betty Jo Johns, age 88 died peacefully on October 23, 2020, at Concordia
 Life Plan Community in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, following a brief 
illness. 
 She was born May 1, 1932, in Manzanola, Colorado; the only child 
born to Galen and Edna Farris Baker. Betty Jo was raised in Manzanola, 
CO, and Friend, KS, before graduating from Garden City High School, 
Garden City KS, in 1949. She received her bachelor’s degree from 
McPherson College (KS) in 1954, and her master’s degree from the 
University of Northern Colorado in 1964. 
 She married Joseph H. Johns in 1954, and celebrated fifty-six years
 together prior to his passing in 2010. Betty Jo is preceded in death 
by her mother, Edna Hopkins, her father, Galen Baker, and her 
stepfather, Ben Hopkins. She is survived by her sons, Joel, of 
Edgerton, KS, and Brock, of Oklahoma City, OK, and spouses Julie and 
Tammy, respectively. She has three grandchildren: Tyler, Paige, and 
Claire. 
 Betty Jo was a lifelong fitness enthusiast, an advocate for women’s
 athletic competition, and a pioneer in the establishment of women’s 
sports in Western Kansas. She was instrumental in establishing the 
girl’s basketball and volleyball programs at Dighton (KS) High School 
between 1955-1958, and the women’s volleyball, basketball, tennis, and 
softball programs at Garden City Community College. She commemorated 
significant birthday milestones in her lifetime through athletic 
achievements. At age 40, she played 40 sets of tennis. When she turned
 45, Betty Jo bicycled 45 miles. On her 50th birthday, she ran 50 
kilometers. During Betty Jo’s 55th birthday, she played 55 games of 
racquetball, and at age 60, she walked 60 kilometers. Betty Jo 
participated in the Bicycle Across Kansas event for several years and 
truly enjoyed every windy, dusty mile she peddled with her friends. She
 is famous for distributing both peppernuts during the holidays and 
peanut butter krispie treats to the community, college faculty and her 
students. 
 In 2006, she was honored by her Alma Mater through induction into 
the McPherson College Athletic Hall of Fame following a 26 year 
teaching, coaching, and athletic career which included pitching for five
 state championship slow-pitch softball teams, participating in five 
national slow-pitch tournaments, and her contribution to the 
establishment of women’s sports at Garden City Community College In 
2007, she was similarly inducted into the Garden City Community College 
Athletic Hall of Fame for her dedication to the furtherance of women’s 
athletic competition. 
 Following retirement, Betty Jo enjoyed volunteering at the Finney 
County Historical Society and the Garden City Travel Plaza, in addition 
to writing and painting. 
 Betty Jo’s priorities were simple: her family, her friends, and her
 students, many whom became her extended family and all of whom she 
insisted call her Betty Jo. Until her health prevented it, she 
maintained a close relationship with her college roommates from Arnold 
Hall at McPherson College. In the end, she said her preferred title was
 mom and grandma. 
 Visitation is to be held on Thursday, October 29th, from 2:00 p.m. 
to 8:00 p.m. and Friday, October 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at 
Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. A graveside service and burial 
will be held on Friday, October 30th, at 1:30 p.m., at the Prairie View 
Church of the Brethren Cemetery in Friend, KS. The family suggests 
memorials given to the Garden City Community College Endowment 
Association in care of the funeral home.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Betty Jo Johns

Howard G. Schroeder, 95, passed away October 25, 2020, at 
Medicalodges of Great Bend. He was born August 17, 1925, at Dundee, to 
Henry &amp; Catherne Schroeder. He married Harriet Ann Rice and they 
later divorced.

A lifetime Barton County resident, Howard was a blaster and painter 
for Cooper Coating in Ellinwood. He was a life member of the VFW Post 
#5657 in Ellinwood. He served in the United States Navy during World War
 II and the Korean Conflict. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing pool 
and bowling.

Survivors include, three sons, Gary Schroeder, and Larry Schroeder 
and wife Jennifer, all of Great Bend, and Richard Schroeder of 
Hoisington; a daughter, Rebecca Adams of Venus, Texas; a brother, Bythel
 Schroeder; a sister, Alice Miller; nine grandchildren; and nine great 
grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and ten 
siblings.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, 
October 29, 2020 at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be held at
 10:00 a.m., Friday, October 30, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home with Rev. 
Dick Ogle presiding. Interment will be in Dundee Valley Cemetery with 
Military Rites conducted by the United States Navy. Memorials are 
suggested to VFW Post #3111, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603805799636.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Howard G. Schroeder, 95, passed away October 25, 2020, at 
Medicalodges of Great Bend. He was born August 17, 1925, at Dundee, to 
Henry &amp; Catherne Schroeder. He married Harriet Ann Rice and they 
later divorced.A lifetime Barton County resident, Howard was a blaster and painter 
for Cooper Coating in Ellinwood. He was a life member of the VFW Post 
#5657 in Ellinwood. He served in the United States Navy during World War
 II and the Korean Conflict. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing pool 
and bowling.Survivors include, three sons, Gary Schroeder, and Larry Schroeder 
and wife Jennifer, all of Great Bend, and Richard Schroeder of 
Hoisington; a daughter, Rebecca Adams of Venus, Texas; a brother, Bythel
 Schroeder; a sister, Alice Miller; nine grandchildren; and nine great 
grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and ten 
siblings.Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, 
October 29, 2020 at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be held at
 10:00 a.m., Friday, October 30, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home with Rev. 
Dick Ogle presiding. Interment will be in Dundee Valley Cemetery with 
Military Rites conducted by the United States Navy. Memorials are 
suggested to VFW Post #3111, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Howard G. Schroeder

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $30 per barrel. That's down $1.25 from a week ago, up a dollar from the first of the month, but down $17 from a year ago. After posting their first weekly loss in three weeks, U.S. crude futures prices plunged on Monday. In afternoon trading the benchmark Nymex contract was down $1.34 to $38.51 per barrel. London Brent was down $1.37 to $40.40. Drilling activity in Kansas was up slightly last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports ten active drilling rigs in Western Kansas, up two for the week. The count east of Wichita was unchanged at five active rigs. Drilling is underway on two leases in Ellis County, where a third has reached total depth and is being evaluated. An operator in Stafford County is preparing to spud two new wells there. Baker Hughes reports 287 active drilling rigs across the country, an increase of six oil rigs. Texas added two rigs to the weekly count, while Oklahoma added one. Regulators approved 12 new permits to drill across Kansas last week, five of them east of Wichita and seven in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County and two in Stafford County. That's 358 permits for drilling at new locations statewide so far this year, compared to 876 at this time last year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports a newly completed well in Ellis County among 13 completions in Western Kansas last week. Add one east of Wichita for a statewide total of 14 newly completed wells for the week, 694 so far this year. The government said U.S. crude inventories dropped one million barrels last week to just over 488 million. The report came less than a day after the American Petroleum Institute reported a surprise increase in stockpiles of more than half a million barrels.&nbsp; U.S. production dipped below ten million barrels per day for the first time in six weeks. The Energy Information Administration reports average production last week of 9.86 million barrels per day, down 586,000 barrels per day from the week before. Output is down nearly three million barrels per day from a year ago at this time. EIA said imports were down 167,000 barrels per day last week to just over five million barrels per day. The four-week average is nearly 14% less than during the same four-week period last year. Oil by rail traffic was up slightly on the week, but remained 19% below last years tallies. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,293 tanker cars hauling petroleum or petroleum products during the week ending October 17. Oil by rail in Canada is down nearly thirty percent compared to a year ago. Lower gasoline demand is dropping gasoline prices for the majority of the country.&nbsp; Across the U.S., pump prices were a penny cheaper last week than a week earlier, two cents lower than a month ago, and nearly half a dollar below last year at this time. Triple-A says the national average Thursday was $2.16 a gallon, while the average across the Sunflower State was $1.93. Kansas was among 13 states across the U.S. with average prices below two dollars. It was selling for $1.99 across Great Bend, and $1.90 in Hays. Filling your 15-gallon tank with cost you nine dollars more than it did six months ago, but about five dollars less than last year at this time. The two sides in Libya's civil war appear to have completed their reconciliation. On Friday they signed a permanent cease-fire, although skepticism is already rising.&nbsp; The deal includes an order for all foreign mercenaries to leave the country, and sets the state for political talks next month. Libya descended into chaos in 2011, after an uprising toppled and killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi.&nbsp; Renewed production amid continuing low demand have prompted renewed concerns about U.S. crude-oil storage capacity. The Energy Information Administration reports the national totals are safe, but users have reached 77% of capacity at the storage hub in Cushing, Oklahoma. EIA reports on net stockpiles as a percentage of working storage capacity. That figure reached a high of 62 percent back in June, but has since dropped to 54%. Cushing is fast approaching the all-time high. The Oklahoma total reached 77% in the week ending June 19. The record of 83% of capacity was set May 1. ConocoPhillips agreed to buy Concho Resources for about $9.7 billion in stock, marking the largest shale industry deal since the collapse in energy demand earlier this year. Concho Resources was worth $32 billion just two years ago, but is selling for $9.7 billion in stock. The deal will create what Bloomberg calls a heavyweight driller in America’s most prolific oil field, rivaled only by the likes of Occidental Petroleum and Chevron.&nbsp; Native American tribes opposed to the Dakota Access Pipeline have once again asked a federal judge to stop the flow of oil while the legal battle over the line’s future plays out. The tribes succeeded on their first attempt, only to have an appeals court overturn the shutdown order earlier this year. The Bismarck Tribune reports they are now asking the judge to clarify his order to satisfy the appeals court and once again shut down the pipeline. The court is awaiting a new environmental study to determine the risk the pipeline poses to the tribes' water supply. The study is expected to take more than a year to complete. Given pandemic lockdown restrictions around the globe, worldwide crude oil demand is shrinking. You can't even dock a crude-oil tanker in some ports, where users are instead winding down inventories built up since March. Demand for crude tankers has fallen more than 14% this year according to Lloyd's List Maritime Intelligence, which covers shipping news. Only about 80% of the international tanker fleet is currently in use according to Lloyd's List.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARKansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson starts the week at $30 per barrel. That's down $1.25 from a week ago, up a dollar from the first of the month, but down $17 from a year ago. After posting their first weekly loss in three weeks, U.S. crude futures prices plunged on Monday. In afternoon trading the benchmark Nymex contract was down $1.34 to $38.51 per barrel. London Brent was down $1.37 to $40.40. Drilling activity in Kansas was up slightly last week. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports ten active drilling rigs in Western Kansas, up two for the week. The count east of Wichita was unchanged at five active rigs. Drilling is underway on two leases in Ellis County, where a third has reached total depth and is being evaluated. An operator in Stafford County is preparing to spud two new wells there. Baker Hughes reports 287 active drilling rigs across the country, an increase of six oil rigs. Texas added two rigs to the weekly count, while Oklahoma added one. Regulators approved 12 new permits to drill across Kansas last week, five of them east of Wichita and seven in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County and two in Stafford County. That's 358 permits for drilling at new locations statewide so far this year, compared to 876 at this time last year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports a newly completed well in Ellis County among 13 completions in Western Kansas last week. Add one east of Wichita for a statewide total of 14 newly completed wells for the week, 694 so far this year. The government said U.S. crude inventories dropped one million barrels last week to just over 488 million. The report came less than a day after the American Petroleum Institute reported a surprise increase in stockpiles of more than half a million barrels.&nbsp; U.S. production dipped below ten million barrels per day for the first time in six weeks. The Energy Information Administration reports average production last week of 9.86 million barrels per day, down 586,000 barrels per day from the week before. Output is down nearly three million barrels per day from a year ago at this time. EIA said imports were down 167,000 barrels per day last week to just over five million barrels per day. The four-week average is nearly 14% less than during the same four-week period last year. Oil by rail traffic was up slightly on the week, but remained 19% below last years tallies. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,293 tanker cars hauling petroleum or petroleum products during the week ending October 17. Oil by rail in Canada is down nearly thirty percent compared to a year ago. Lower gasoline demand is dropping gasoline prices for the majority of the country.&nbsp; Across the U.S., pump prices were a penny cheaper last week than a week earlier, two cents lower than a month ago, and nearly half a dollar below last year at this time. Triple-A says the national average Thursday was $2.16 a gallon, while the average across the Sunflower State was $1.93. Kansas was among 13 states across the U.S. with average prices below two dollars. It was selling for $1.99 across Great Bend, and $1.90 in Hays. Filling your 15-gallon tank with cost you nine dollars more than it did six months ago, but about five dollars less than last year at this time. The two sides in Libya's civil war appear to have completed their reconciliation. On Friday they signed a permanent cease-fire, although skepticism is already rising.&nbsp; The deal includes an order for all foreign mercenaries to leave the country, and sets the state for political talks next month. Libya descended into chaos in 2011, after an uprising toppled and killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi.&nbsp; Renewed production amid continuing low demand have prompted renewed concerns about U.S. crude-oil storage capacity. The Energy Information Administration reports the national totals are safe, but users have reached 77% of capacity at the storage hub in Cushing, Oklahoma. EIA reports on net stockpiles as a percentage of working storage capacity. That figure reached a high of 62 percent back in June, but has since dropped to 54%. Cushing is fast approaching the all-time high. The Oklahoma total reached 77% in the week ending June 19. The record of 83% of capacity was set May 1. ConocoPhillips agreed to buy Concho Resources for about $9.7 billion in stock, marking the largest shale industry deal since the collapse in energy demand earlier this year. Concho Resources was worth $32 billion just two years ago, but is selling for $9.7 billion in stock. The deal will create what Bloomberg calls a heavyweight driller in America’s most prolific oil field, rivaled only by the likes of Occidental Petroleum and Chevron.&nbsp; Native American tribes opposed to the Dakota Access Pipeline have once again asked a federal judge to stop the flow of oil while the legal battle over the line’s future plays out. The tribes succeeded on their first attempt, only to have an appeals court overturn the shutdown order earlier this year. The Bismarck Tribune reports they are now asking the judge to clarify his order to satisfy the appeals court and once again shut down the pipeline. The court is awaiting a new environmental study to determine the risk the pipeline poses to the tribes' water supply. The study is expected to take more than a year to complete. Given pandemic lockdown restrictions around the globe, worldwide crude oil demand is shrinking. You can't even dock a crude-oil tanker in some ports, where users are instead winding down inventories built up since March. Demand for crude tankers has fallen more than 14% this year according to Lloyd's List Maritime Intelligence, which covers shipping news. Only about 80% of the international tanker fleet is currently in use according to Lloyd's List.

News From the Oil Patch: Drilling activity up slightly

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly today encouraged Kansans to participate in the sixth KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair, which begins tomorrow, October 27 and will continue through Thursday, October 29. The virtual fair will allow job seekers to easily live chat with employers from across the state through computers and mobile devices. KANSASWORKS has organized four virtual job fairs in 2020, with three additional virtual fairs planned later this year. <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMDEwMjYuMjk0MTU1MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2djYzAxLnNhZmVsaW5rcy5wcm90ZWN0aW9uLm91dGxvb2suY29tLz91cmw9aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZrYW5zYXN3b3Jrc3ZpcnR1YWxqb2JmYWlyLmVhc3l2aXJ0dWFsZmFpci5jb20lMkYmZGF0YT0wNCU3QzAxJTdDUmF5bmEuS2Fyc3QlNDBrcy5nb3YlN0M0YTg0NTA5NzQ2ZTY0NjQ5ZjEzYzA4ZDg3OWYwNWM0MCU3Q2RjYWU4MTAxYzkyZDQ4MGNiYzQzYzY3NjFjY2NjYzVhJTdDMCU3QzAlN0M2MzczOTM0MjA1MzM0MTI1MTUlN0NVbmtub3duJTdDVFdGcGJHWnNiM2Q4ZXlKV0lqb2lNQzR3TGpBd01EQWlMQ0pRSWpvaVYybHVNeklpTENKQlRpSTZJazFoYVd3aUxDSlhWQ0k2TW4wJTNEJTdDMTAwMCZzZGF0YT1UbElFaERBa01UOEtXMFJGTm1veVRCUnZjeTdUaGJOYllOUXJxOHJvNSUyRjQlM0QmcmVzZXJ2ZWQ9MCJ9.WEdh7JVGGLnyjCI-YmzECEP0_FMGy8JYXS4Cr3dKCjw/s/1303160919/br/87436030573-l" target="_blank">Click here to register for the Virtual Job Fair.</a>

“COVID-19 continues to be an obstacle for the normal job fair system, but KANSASWORKS is creative and continues to do important work for Kansas,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “I encourage all job-seekers in our state to visit this and future Virtual Job Fairs to find opportunities in their area.” The Department of Commerce, in partnership with the Local Workforce Development Boards, moved its statewide job fairs online this year to eliminate public health risks associated with mass gatherings, and as a way to continue to provide job opportunities and maintain a ready workforce for Kansas businesses. “These virtual fairs are producing real results for job seekers and employers in every region,”&nbsp;Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“We remain committed to economic growth and recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and that means helping Kansans find meaningful, rewarding employment opportunities in our state.” Registration is now required for each virtual event. If job seekers have previously attended a Virtual Job Fair, they are required to re-register for this event with the link provided above. The fifth virtual fair in September attracted participation from 180 employers and 1,003 jobseekers from across the state. As concerns for Kansans' health and safety remain high due to COVID-19, the Department of Commerce will maintain the Virtual Job Fair system for the remainder of 2020. The final fair of the year will be December 8-9. Beginning with this virtual fair, job seekers can now upload their most recent resume to their Virtual Job Fair account. If you require assistance, please contact your local workforce center at (877) 509-6757 to schedule an appointment.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly today encouraged Kansans to participate in the sixth KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair, which begins tomorrow, October 27 and will continue through Thursday, October 29. The virtual fair will allow job seekers to easily live chat with employers from across the state through computers and mobile devices. KANSASWORKS has organized four virtual job fairs in 2020, with three additional virtual fairs planned later this year. <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.WEdh7JVGGLnyjCI-YmzECEP0_FMGy8JYXS4Cr3dKCjw/s/1303160919/br/87436030573-l" target="_blank">Click here to register for the Virtual Job Fair.</a>“COVID-19 continues to be an obstacle for the normal job fair system, but KANSASWORKS is creative and continues to do important work for Kansas,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “I encourage all job-seekers in our state to visit this and future Virtual Job Fairs to find opportunities in their area.” The Department of Commerce, in partnership with the Local Workforce Development Boards, moved its statewide job fairs online this year to eliminate public health risks associated with mass gatherings, and as a way to continue to provide job opportunities and maintain a ready workforce for Kansas businesses. “These virtual fairs are producing real results for job seekers and employers in every region,”&nbsp;Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“We remain committed to economic growth and recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and that means helping Kansans find meaningful, rewarding employment opportunities in our state.” Registration is now required for each virtual event. If job seekers have previously attended a Virtual Job Fair, they are required to re-register for this event with the link provided above. The fifth virtual fair in September attracted participation from 180 employers and 1,003 jobseekers from across the state. As concerns for Kansans' health and safety remain high due to COVID-19, the Department of Commerce will maintain the Virtual Job Fair system for the remainder of 2020. The final fair of the year will be December 8-9. Beginning with this virtual fair, job seekers can now upload their most recent resume to their Virtual Job Fair account. If you require assistance, please contact your local workforce center at (877) 509-6757 to schedule an appointment.

Statewide virtual job fair begins Tuesday

Felisa R. Clair, 83, of Hays, Kansas, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, October 22, 2020.&nbsp; Felisa was born April 21, 1937, in Isabela, Negros Occidental, Philippines, to Dominador and Julieta (Sakamoto) Ruperto Sr.

To celebrate her life, the family will hold a private memorial on their farm at a later date.

At the age of 5, during Japanese occupation in the Philippines, Felisa grew up very quickly learning to be strong and resilient for survival.&nbsp; At age 23, she came to the United States through Canada and married Vernon Tapaoan, they had two children.&nbsp; Later, in 1970 she married William Ray “Bill” Clair, her late husband and best friend of 43 years. Together they loved serving God, providing generously to their church, family members and friends.

In her own words, “There is no blueprint for life.&nbsp; I just test the waters and do the best I can.” At the age of 60, Felisa earned a social work degree from Fort Hays State University. She later became a certified massage therapist with an unwavering passion to improve the lives of all her clients through her gift of touch.&nbsp; She thoroughly enjoyed the privilege of helping people.&nbsp;

Felisa’s life was a living example of her most treasured Bible verse, Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This precious lady, most humble and kind, with the sunniest and sweetest disposition, will be greatly missed. Through our faith in God, we are comforted and reassured that she is in our future and our hearts will not be troubled.

To all family members, friends and acquaintances, thank you so much for your expressions of kindness, sympathy, support and most of all, your prayers. “To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven” Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Felisa loved and adored her family. She is survived by her four children, Ray Clair,&nbsp;Long Beach, CA; Karla Clair, Independence, MO; Dina Pruter (Doug) Hays, KS; John Tapaoan, Lenexa, KS; 13 grandchildren, Amanda Huffman; Timothy Huffman; Eva Lutz (Skip); Robin Kelly (Steve); Matthew Clair (Candace); Amber Pool (Levi); Michael Clair; Hannah Clair; Blake Pruter (Anna); Brad Pruter (Stephanie); Boone Pruter; Shawn O’Brate; Cooper Tapaoan;&nbsp;ten great grandchildren, Mario, Daniel, Savannah, Ryder, Olivia, Simon, Elijah, Josiah, Taylor, Zoe;&nbsp; one brother, Dominador Ruperto, San Diego, CA; three sisters, Milagros Burgos, Fairfield, CA;&nbsp; Nellie Santos, Natoma, KS; Ligaya Tauro, Taguid City, Philippines; and numerous nephews and nieces.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Felisa has now joyfully reunited in Heaven with her loving husband, Bill; her parents; a daughter, Zoe Leeta Huffman; five sisters, Veronica &nbsp;Ruperto Ramos; Luzon Ruperto Seva; Celia Ruperto; Fatima Ruperto; Filomena Llanes; one brother, Manuel Ruperto; two grandchildren, John and Christopher Huffman.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Boys Town,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boystown.org/">https://www.boystown.org</a>&nbsp;in care of the mortuary.

Services are entrusted to Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.Condolences can be sent via email to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a> &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603749872387.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Felisa R. Clair, 83, of Hays, Kansas, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, October 22, 2020.&nbsp; Felisa was born April 21, 1937, in Isabela, Negros Occidental, Philippines, to Dominador and Julieta (Sakamoto) Ruperto Sr.To celebrate her life, the family will hold a private memorial on their farm at a later date.At the age of 5, during Japanese occupation in the Philippines, Felisa grew up very quickly learning to be strong and resilient for survival.&nbsp; At age 23, she came to the United States through Canada and married Vernon Tapaoan, they had two children.&nbsp; Later, in 1970 she married William Ray “Bill” Clair, her late husband and best friend of 43 years. Together they loved serving God, providing generously to their church, family members and friends.In her own words, “There is no blueprint for life.&nbsp; I just test the waters and do the best I can.” At the age of 60, Felisa earned a social work degree from Fort Hays State University. She later became a certified massage therapist with an unwavering passion to improve the lives of all her clients through her gift of touch.&nbsp; She thoroughly enjoyed the privilege of helping people.&nbsp;Felisa’s life was a living example of her most treasured Bible verse, Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This precious lady, most humble and kind, with the sunniest and sweetest disposition, will be greatly missed. Through our faith in God, we are comforted and reassured that she is in our future and our hearts will not be troubled.To all family members, friends and acquaintances, thank you so much for your expressions of kindness, sympathy, support and most of all, your prayers. “To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven” Ecclesiastes 3:1.Felisa loved and adored her family. She is survived by her four children, Ray Clair,&nbsp;Long Beach, CA; Karla Clair, Independence, MO; Dina Pruter (Doug) Hays, KS; John Tapaoan, Lenexa, KS; 13 grandchildren, Amanda Huffman; Timothy Huffman; Eva Lutz (Skip); Robin Kelly (Steve); Matthew Clair (Candace); Amber Pool (Levi); Michael Clair; Hannah Clair; Blake Pruter (Anna); Brad Pruter (Stephanie); Boone Pruter; Shawn O’Brate; Cooper Tapaoan;&nbsp;ten great grandchildren, Mario, Daniel, Savannah, Ryder, Olivia, Simon, Elijah, Josiah, Taylor, Zoe;&nbsp; one brother, Dominador Ruperto, San Diego, CA; three sisters, Milagros Burgos, Fairfield, CA;&nbsp; Nellie Santos, Natoma, KS; Ligaya Tauro, Taguid City, Philippines; and numerous nephews and nieces.&nbsp;&nbsp;Felisa has now joyfully reunited in Heaven with her loving husband, Bill; her parents; a daughter, Zoe Leeta Huffman; five sisters, Veronica &nbsp;Ruperto Ramos; Luzon Ruperto Seva; Celia Ruperto; Fatima Ruperto; Filomena Llanes; one brother, Manuel Ruperto; two grandchildren, John and Christopher Huffman.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Boys Town,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boystown.org/">https://www.boystown.org</a>&nbsp;in care of the mortuary.Services are entrusted to Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.Condolences can be sent via email to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a> &nbsp;

Felisa R. Clair

Clara Rosella “Pat” Engling, 86, of Natoma, Kansas, died on Wednesday, October 21, 2020, at the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, Kansas.

Clara was born on March 17, 1934, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Albin and Florance (Culley) Golembiewski.

She met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Edward M. Engling on March 08, 1954 in Lawton, Oklahoma.&nbsp; From this union they were blessed with 5 children Edward, Christine, Michael, Andrew and Anthony. They raised their children and called home in the Codell and Natoma area.&nbsp; She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker.

Surviving family include son, Edward M. Engling, Jr. of Natoma, Kansas; daughter, Christine M. Hoffman (Ken) of Hays, Kansas; son, Michael A. Engling (Dee) of Phillipsburg, Kansas; son, Andrew L. Engling (April) of Natoma, Kansas; and son, Anthony C. Engling (Lori) of Salina, Kansas; 2 brothers Joseph Golembiewski and Ben Bogus; 2 sisters Frances McGee and Agnes Vidal; 17 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren and 4 Great-Great Grandchildren. &nbsp;

She was preceded in death by her husband Ed on July 02, 2017; her parents and a brother, Albert Golembiewski.

A private family service will be held at a later date.&nbsp; The family has chosen cremation. &nbsp; A memorial has been set for the Natoma Community Center and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Clara Rosella “Pat” Engling, 86, of Natoma, Kansas, died on Wednesday, October 21, 2020, at the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, Kansas.Clara was born on March 17, 1934, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Albin and Florance (Culley) Golembiewski.She met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Edward M. Engling on March 08, 1954 in Lawton, Oklahoma.&nbsp; From this union they were blessed with 5 children Edward, Christine, Michael, Andrew and Anthony. They raised their children and called home in the Codell and Natoma area.&nbsp; She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker.Surviving family include son, Edward M. Engling, Jr. of Natoma, Kansas; daughter, Christine M. Hoffman (Ken) of Hays, Kansas; son, Michael A. Engling (Dee) of Phillipsburg, Kansas; son, Andrew L. Engling (April) of Natoma, Kansas; and son, Anthony C. Engling (Lori) of Salina, Kansas; 2 brothers Joseph Golembiewski and Ben Bogus; 2 sisters Frances McGee and Agnes Vidal; 17 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren and 4 Great-Great Grandchildren. &nbsp;She was preceded in death by her husband Ed on July 02, 2017; her parents and a brother, Albert Golembiewski.A private family service will be held at a later date.&nbsp; The family has chosen cremation. &nbsp; A memorial has been set for the Natoma Community Center and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Clara Rosella 'Pat' Engling

Eunice Perle Horchem, 99, passed away on October 22, 2020 at the 
Rhode Island Suites in Ransom, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on May 23, 1921 in 
Plainville, Kansas the daughter of Perle Edwin and Otis Amber (Crandall)
 Tilley. She was raised in Great Bend, Kansas.

As a child Eunice enjoyed visiting her grandparents’ farm Southwest 
of Ransom.&nbsp; Her grandfather bought her a pony, “Danny”, for her to ride 
when she visited.&nbsp; There she learned her love of horses and raising 
wheat.&nbsp; When she married her husband, Dave, he bought her a beautiful 
Palomino named, “Tony”.&nbsp;

Eunice’s father was a music teacher and started her on violin lessons
 at the age of three.&nbsp; She played in many contests and won many awards.&nbsp;
 After graduation from high school Eunice continued to study music in 
college.&nbsp; She attended Fort Hays University and then a College in 
Denver, Colorado.&nbsp; She was an accomplished violinist. She taught in a 
one room school near Hoisington, Kansas.&nbsp; On October 17, 2946 she 
married Dave Horchem in Topeka, Kansas.&nbsp; He preceded her in death on 
January 29, 1996.&nbsp; From her home in Ransom, Eunice taught violin and 
accordion to many local students.&nbsp; She taught Sunday school in the 
Ransom United Methodist Church where she was a member &nbsp;and provided 
violin music for many church services, programs, weddings, and 
funerals.&nbsp; She also appreciated art and painted many beautiful 
paintings.&nbsp; Anytime someone needed help with an art project for school 
she was there to help.&nbsp; She was a homemaker and farmed with her family.

Survivors include her son, David Horchem or Ransom; daughter, Paula 
Huxman of Leawood, Kansas; grandchildren; Lana Vaughn and her husband, 
Dean, and Scott Huxman and his wife, Whitney; five grandchildren, Logan,
 Preston, and Morgan Vaughn and Julia and Luke Huxman; and one sister, 
Pauline Wood of San Antonio, Texas and her son Mark (Ron); nieces, 
Sharon McKinney, Mary Lou Willour, and Jane Lovelady (Jan). She was 
preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dave Horchem; a daughter, 
Carol; granddaughter, Stacy; and a sister, Anna Belle Brack.

Funeral service and burial will be on Friday, October 30, 2020, 11:00
 a.m., at the Ransom. Friends may call at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Ness 
City, Kansas, 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 29th, 2020.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Rhode Island Suites.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603747300785.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eunice Perle Horchem, 99, passed away on October 22, 2020 at the 
Rhode Island Suites in Ransom, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on May 23, 1921 in 
Plainville, Kansas the daughter of Perle Edwin and Otis Amber (Crandall)
 Tilley. She was raised in Great Bend, Kansas.As a child Eunice enjoyed visiting her grandparents’ farm Southwest 
of Ransom.&nbsp; Her grandfather bought her a pony, “Danny”, for her to ride 
when she visited.&nbsp; There she learned her love of horses and raising 
wheat.&nbsp; When she married her husband, Dave, he bought her a beautiful 
Palomino named, “Tony”.&nbsp;Eunice’s father was a music teacher and started her on violin lessons
 at the age of three.&nbsp; She played in many contests and won many awards.&nbsp;
 After graduation from high school Eunice continued to study music in 
college.&nbsp; She attended Fort Hays University and then a College in 
Denver, Colorado.&nbsp; She was an accomplished violinist. She taught in a 
one room school near Hoisington, Kansas.&nbsp; On October 17, 2946 she 
married Dave Horchem in Topeka, Kansas.&nbsp; He preceded her in death on 
January 29, 1996.&nbsp; From her home in Ransom, Eunice taught violin and 
accordion to many local students.&nbsp; She taught Sunday school in the 
Ransom United Methodist Church where she was a member &nbsp;and provided 
violin music for many church services, programs, weddings, and 
funerals.&nbsp; She also appreciated art and painted many beautiful 
paintings.&nbsp; Anytime someone needed help with an art project for school 
she was there to help.&nbsp; She was a homemaker and farmed with her family.Survivors include her son, David Horchem or Ransom; daughter, Paula 
Huxman of Leawood, Kansas; grandchildren; Lana Vaughn and her husband, 
Dean, and Scott Huxman and his wife, Whitney; five grandchildren, Logan,
 Preston, and Morgan Vaughn and Julia and Luke Huxman; and one sister, 
Pauline Wood of San Antonio, Texas and her son Mark (Ron); nieces, 
Sharon McKinney, Mary Lou Willour, and Jane Lovelady (Jan). She was 
preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dave Horchem; a daughter, 
Carol; granddaughter, Stacy; and a sister, Anna Belle Brack.Funeral service and burial will be on Friday, October 30, 2020, 11:00
 a.m., at the Ransom. Friends may call at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Ness 
City, Kansas, 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 29th, 2020.Memorial contributions may be given to the Rhode Island Suites.

Eunice Perle Horchem

Andrea Kay Nelson, 73, passed away October 25, 2020, at Woodhaven 
Care Center, Ellinwood. She was born August 3, 1947, at Great Bend, to 
Marvel V. &amp; Vera I. (Irvin) Burfield. She married Delbert Nelson on 
June 15, 1967, at Great Bend. He survives.

A Great Bend resident since 2001, coming from Otis, Andrea was a 
music education teacher, a Pastor and choir director for church. She was
 a member of Otis United Methodist Church, LaCrosse United Methodist 
Church, the United Methodist Women. Andrea never knew a stranger. She 
enjoyed crafts and scrapbooking, but especially loved to spend time with
 her sons and grandchildren.

Survivors include, her husband Delbert Nelson of the home; two sons, 
Andrew Nelson and wife Jessica of Great Bend, and Dale Nelson and wife 
Janice of Longmont, Colo.; a brother, Pastor Bruce A. Burfield and wife 
Keli of Lindsborg; and four grandchildren, Joshua, Nicholas, Emilee, and
 Victoria. She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, 
Brent Burfield and Marvin Burfield.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, 
October 29, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family requesting to 
receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. The family requests those in 
attendance to wear masks and social distance. Private Family Funeral 
Service will be held Friday, October 30, 2020, at First Christian Church
 in Great Bend, with Pastor Bruce A. Burfield and Reverend Josh Leu 
presiding. Interment will be held at 3:00 p.m. in Golden Belt Memorial 
Park, Great Bend. Memorials are suggested to Otis United Methodist 
Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603747235872.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Andrea Kay Nelson, 73, passed away October 25, 2020, at Woodhaven 
Care Center, Ellinwood. She was born August 3, 1947, at Great Bend, to 
Marvel V. &amp; Vera I. (Irvin) Burfield. She married Delbert Nelson on 
June 15, 1967, at Great Bend. He survives.A Great Bend resident since 2001, coming from Otis, Andrea was a 
music education teacher, a Pastor and choir director for church. She was
 a member of Otis United Methodist Church, LaCrosse United Methodist 
Church, the United Methodist Women. Andrea never knew a stranger. She 
enjoyed crafts and scrapbooking, but especially loved to spend time with
 her sons and grandchildren.Survivors include, her husband Delbert Nelson of the home; two sons, 
Andrew Nelson and wife Jessica of Great Bend, and Dale Nelson and wife 
Janice of Longmont, Colo.; a brother, Pastor Bruce A. Burfield and wife 
Keli of Lindsborg; and four grandchildren, Joshua, Nicholas, Emilee, and
 Victoria. She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, 
Brent Burfield and Marvin Burfield.Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, 
October 29, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family requesting to 
receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. The family requests those in 
attendance to wear masks and social distance. Private Family Funeral 
Service will be held Friday, October 30, 2020, at First Christian Church
 in Great Bend, with Pastor Bruce A. Burfield and Reverend Josh Leu 
presiding. Interment will be held at 3:00 p.m. in Golden Belt Memorial 
Park, Great Bend. Memorials are suggested to Otis United Methodist 
Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Andrea Kay Nelson

Sunday, September 24th, 1933-Monday, October 26th, 2020

An obituary and services are pending at Baalmann Mortuary.

Sunday, September 24th, 1933-Monday, October 26th, 2020An obituary and services are pending at Baalmann Mortuary.