Leonard Rempel Goossen began his sojourn of life at Morris, Manitoba. He was born on March 6, 1948, following the birth of his twin brother. His parents were Ben and Clara Rempel Goossen. His final breath and peaceful departure, surrounded by family, was at Western Prairie Senior Living on June 3, 2024. His passing was a result of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. He was seventy-six.

Leonard’s school and teenage years were marked with happiness. He received his eight years of formal education at Clover Plains School, having the same teacher for all eight years. A sharp memory served him well in recounting his adventurous childhood.

Upon hearing the call of the Lord, Leonard surrendered his will and by faith accepted Christ as his Savior. Peace with God was always his most guarded possession. He was baptized by his Uncle Walter Goossen on February 15, 1960, into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite.

He found life’s companion in Bertha Toews. On October 18, 1970, they were united in marriage by Minister Cecil Unruh at Copeland, Ks. Their special day was shared with Leonard’s twin brother and Bertha’s sister. In June of 1974, as a young married couple dad and mom left Rosenort, Manitoba and moved to Ulysses, KS. Six children were born to this union. Our parents’ home was orderly and well structured. Dad had a keen perception of the needs of his children and grandchildren. The tender feelings he had for us was a reflection of his mellow heart. The most tragic event of our parent’s lives was the death of our sister, Marita in 1996. Their married life spanned fifty-three years.

Our father’s enthusiasm for watchmaking began as a teenager. He completed a course of study in watchmaking when he was nineteen, enabling him to make clock and watch repair the highlight of his career. Also sowing wheat in the fall of the year and the subsequent harvest reflected his love of nature.

Minister L. John Becker ordained our father into the deaconry in 1989. His deaconry path was as varied as it was fulfilling. Serving in the community, in the home congregation, or on conference boards showcased his kindness and hospitality. He shared with many life’s tools of logic. He was equally quick with a witty remark or lend an ear and give thoughtful advice. His love for people was foundational and the cornerstone for his years of unselfish service.

“The greatest gift we ever had came from God; we call him Dad.” His physical body is no longer ticking, but always a chime will ring in our hearts.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Bertha of their home; sons, Timothy and wife, Lucinda Goossen of Ronan, Montana, Warren and wife, Melanie Goossen, Lonnie and wife, Rebekah Goossen; daughters, Janell and husband, Verle Koehn, Loretta and husband, Todd Nichols, all of Ulysses; twin brother, Lloyd Goossen of Greensburg; brothers, Alvin Goossen and LeRoy Goossen; and sister, Ileen Peters all of Rosenort, Manitoba, Canada; 22 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Leonard is preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Clara Goossen; daughter, Marita Beth Goossen; and brother, Paul Goossen.

Funeral Service will be, Friday, June 7, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Grant Mennonite Church in Ulysses, Kansas, with Minister Denton Koehn, Minister Stuart Jantzen and Minister Robert Goossen officiating. Interment will follow at the Grant Mennonite Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, June 6, 2024, from 11:00 AM until 4:00 PM at Garnand Funeral Home in Ulysses. Memorial contributions may be given to Western Plains Christian School in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.

Leonard Rempel Goossen began his sojourn of life at Morris, Manitoba. He was born on March 6, 1948, following the birth of his twin brother. His parents were Ben and Clara Rempel Goossen. His final breath and peaceful departure, surrounded by family, was at Western Prairie Senior Living on June 3, 2024. His passing was a result of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. He was seventy-six.Leonard’s school and teenage years were marked with happiness. He received his eight years of formal education at Clover Plains School, having the same teacher for all eight years. A sharp memory served him well in recounting his adventurous childhood.Upon hearing the call of the Lord, Leonard surrendered his will and by faith accepted Christ as his Savior. Peace with God was always his most guarded possession. He was baptized by his Uncle Walter Goossen on February 15, 1960, into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite.He found life’s companion in Bertha Toews. On October 18, 1970, they were united in marriage by Minister Cecil Unruh at Copeland, Ks. Their special day was shared with Leonard’s twin brother and Bertha’s sister. In June of 1974, as a young married couple dad and mom left Rosenort, Manitoba and moved to Ulysses, KS. Six children were born to this union. Our parents’ home was orderly and well structured. Dad had a keen perception of the needs of his children and grandchildren. The tender feelings he had for us was a reflection of his mellow heart. The most tragic event of our parent’s lives was the death of our sister, Marita in 1996. Their married life spanned fifty-three years.Our father’s enthusiasm for watchmaking began as a teenager. He completed a course of study in watchmaking when he was nineteen, enabling him to make clock and watch repair the highlight of his career. Also sowing wheat in the fall of the year and the subsequent harvest reflected his love of nature.Minister L. John Becker ordained our father into the deaconry in 1989. His deaconry path was as varied as it was fulfilling. Serving in the community, in the home congregation, or on conference boards showcased his kindness and hospitality. He shared with many life’s tools of logic. He was equally quick with a witty remark or lend an ear and give thoughtful advice. His love for people was foundational and the cornerstone for his years of unselfish service.“The greatest gift we ever had came from God; we call him Dad.” His physical body is no longer ticking, but always a chime will ring in our hearts.Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Bertha of their home; sons, Timothy and wife, Lucinda Goossen of Ronan, Montana, Warren and wife, Melanie Goossen, Lonnie and wife, Rebekah Goossen; daughters, Janell and husband, Verle Koehn, Loretta and husband, Todd Nichols, all of Ulysses; twin brother, Lloyd Goossen of Greensburg; brothers, Alvin Goossen and LeRoy Goossen; and sister, Ileen Peters all of Rosenort, Manitoba, Canada; 22 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.Leonard is preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Clara Goossen; daughter, Marita Beth Goossen; and brother, Paul Goossen.Funeral Service will be, Friday, June 7, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Grant Mennonite Church in Ulysses, Kansas, with Minister Denton Koehn, Minister Stuart Jantzen and Minister Robert Goossen officiating. Interment will follow at the Grant Mennonite Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, June 6, 2024, from 11:00 AM until 4:00 PM at Garnand Funeral Home in Ulysses. Memorial contributions may be given to Western Plains Christian School in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.

Leonard Rempel Goossen

Gracelleen Opal “Grace” Wertenberger, 76, Hays, died Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at her home.

She was born July 4, 1947 in Ottawa, the daughter of James Ernest and Betty Jean (Caleb) Hollon. Grace grew up in eastern Kansas, graduated from cosmetology school, and for 20 years was a hairstylist in Colby. She was also a daycare provider for ten years, opening her heart and home to many children. On January 20, 2000 she was united in marriage to Donald Alan Wertenberger in Hays, and he preceded her in death on October 28, 2011. Grace was an avid and talented quilter.

Survivors include her three sons, David Hamilton and wife Anji of Norton, Daniel Wertenberger and wife Sara of Hays, and Caleb Wertenberger of Ellis, three daughters, Tamera Svanes and husband Dana of Kintyre, ND, Robin Lujan and husband Casey of Holcomb, and Nancy Daniel and husband Bill of Elizabeth, CO, a sister, Clio Elrod and husband Roger of Pomona, 17 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Donald, two brothers, James and Richard Hollon, a sister, Patricia Markley, a granddaughter, Robin Colleen Hamilton, and a great granddaughter, Stormi Rose Isakson.

No services are scheduled at this time. Arrangements are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Grace may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717615815650.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Gracelleen Opal “Grace” Wertenberger, 76, Hays, died Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at her home.She was born July 4, 1947 in Ottawa, the daughter of James Ernest and Betty Jean (Caleb) Hollon. Grace grew up in eastern Kansas, graduated from cosmetology school, and for 20 years was a hairstylist in Colby. She was also a daycare provider for ten years, opening her heart and home to many children. On January 20, 2000 she was united in marriage to Donald Alan Wertenberger in Hays, and he preceded her in death on October 28, 2011. Grace was an avid and talented quilter.Survivors include her three sons, David Hamilton and wife Anji of Norton, Daniel Wertenberger and wife Sara of Hays, and Caleb Wertenberger of Ellis, three daughters, Tamera Svanes and husband Dana of Kintyre, ND, Robin Lujan and husband Casey of Holcomb, and Nancy Daniel and husband Bill of Elizabeth, CO, a sister, Clio Elrod and husband Roger of Pomona, 17 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Donald, two brothers, James and Richard Hollon, a sister, Patricia Markley, a granddaughter, Robin Colleen Hamilton, and a great granddaughter, Stormi Rose Isakson.No services are scheduled at this time. Arrangements are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Grace may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Gracelleen Opal “Grace” Wertenberger

Charles Leslie Blau, age 91 passed away on Sunday, June 2nd, 2024, at the Wichita County Health Center in Leoti, KS. Some knew him as Charles or Chuck, but he was known as Charlie to his beloved community.&nbsp;

Charlie was born October 5th, 1932, at the home of his Uncle Don and Aunt Annie in Russell Springs, KS; the last son of Louie and Julia (Rubottom) Blau. He grew up in southern Logan County where the Blau families homesteaded in 1885. Charles grew up with Aunts, Uncles, cousins, and four brothers. He helped with the farming and cattle from the time he was a small boy. Charles attended grade school at the Laurel School affectionately known as the “Blau School.” He went to high school in Leoti and graduated in 1950. He started farming for himself soon after he graduated.

On December 29th, 1959, he married Joyce Adele (Wonsetler) at the First Baptist Church in Leoti. They made their first home in Logan County near the Blau Ranch, starting their lives together farming and raising cattle. They later moved to the Wichita County farm where they shared 53 years of marriage before Joyce passed in 2013. Together they raised four children. Charlie was active in his community as a 4-H leader, Baptist Youth Fellowship leader, bus driver, deacon, and trustee for the First Baptist Church. He served his community as a board member for Camp Christy, the senior center, and many volunteer hours during the county fair. He always made time to visit with those in the nursing home and was a big fan of the Wichita County Athletic teams cheering them on from his seat at the top of the bleachers. He dearly enjoyed John Wayne movies, his Wednesday morning coffee group, and playing pitch down at the senior center.

Charlie will be fondly remembered for his faith in God, his genuine kindness, and his delightful sense of humor. We will miss his great stories and those one-liners that always made us laugh. Charles is survived by his daughter Charla (Ronald) Dunn of El Dorado, KS, son Steven (Lisa) Blau of Wichita, KS, daughter Cynthia (Mike) Mills of Iliff, CO, and daughter Trisha Blau of Fayetteville, AR. His pride and joy; Granddaughters Charisse Riddle, Julia Riddle, Kirsten Blau (engaged to August Fielding), Leslie Riddle, Kylee Blau, Sienna Dunn, grandson Garrett Mills, and great-grandson Henry Fielding, sister-in-law Mary Cannady, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Carl and Earl Wonsetler, brothers Martin (Albertine), Hale (Irene), Fritz (Marilla), and John (Joyce) Blau.

Please join us to celebrate and honor this great man and a well-lived life on Saturday, June 8th, 2024, at 10:30 at the First Baptist Church, 101 Carter Avenue, Leoti, Kansas with pastor Gary Salmans presiding. Services will be livestreamed at&nbsp;<a href="https://priceandsons.com/">priceandsons.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://evt.live/blauservice">https://evt.live/blauservice</a>.

Interment will be at the Beulah Cemetery in North Eastern Wichita County following the funeral service.Memorials may be given to the "Wichita County Amusement Association," "The Wichita County EMTs" or "First Baptist Church of Leoti" in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 161, Leoti, KS 67861.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717532445593.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Charles Leslie Blau, age 91 passed away on Sunday, June 2nd, 2024, at the Wichita County Health Center in Leoti, KS. Some knew him as Charles or Chuck, but he was known as Charlie to his beloved community.&nbsp;Charlie was born October 5th, 1932, at the home of his Uncle Don and Aunt Annie in Russell Springs, KS; the last son of Louie and Julia (Rubottom) Blau. He grew up in southern Logan County where the Blau families homesteaded in 1885. Charles grew up with Aunts, Uncles, cousins, and four brothers. He helped with the farming and cattle from the time he was a small boy. Charles attended grade school at the Laurel School affectionately known as the “Blau School.” He went to high school in Leoti and graduated in 1950. He started farming for himself soon after he graduated.On December 29th, 1959, he married Joyce Adele (Wonsetler) at the First Baptist Church in Leoti. They made their first home in Logan County near the Blau Ranch, starting their lives together farming and raising cattle. They later moved to the Wichita County farm where they shared 53 years of marriage before Joyce passed in 2013. Together they raised four children. Charlie was active in his community as a 4-H leader, Baptist Youth Fellowship leader, bus driver, deacon, and trustee for the First Baptist Church. He served his community as a board member for Camp Christy, the senior center, and many volunteer hours during the county fair. He always made time to visit with those in the nursing home and was a big fan of the Wichita County Athletic teams cheering them on from his seat at the top of the bleachers. He dearly enjoyed John Wayne movies, his Wednesday morning coffee group, and playing pitch down at the senior center.Charlie will be fondly remembered for his faith in God, his genuine kindness, and his delightful sense of humor. We will miss his great stories and those one-liners that always made us laugh. Charles is survived by his daughter Charla (Ronald) Dunn of El Dorado, KS, son Steven (Lisa) Blau of Wichita, KS, daughter Cynthia (Mike) Mills of Iliff, CO, and daughter Trisha Blau of Fayetteville, AR. His pride and joy; Granddaughters Charisse Riddle, Julia Riddle, Kirsten Blau (engaged to August Fielding), Leslie Riddle, Kylee Blau, Sienna Dunn, grandson Garrett Mills, and great-grandson Henry Fielding, sister-in-law Mary Cannady, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Carl and Earl Wonsetler, brothers Martin (Albertine), Hale (Irene), Fritz (Marilla), and John (Joyce) Blau.Please join us to celebrate and honor this great man and a well-lived life on Saturday, June 8th, 2024, at 10:30 at the First Baptist Church, 101 Carter Avenue, Leoti, Kansas with pastor Gary Salmans presiding. Services will be livestreamed at&nbsp;<a href="https://priceandsons.com/">priceandsons.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://evt.live/blauservice">https://evt.live/blauservice</a>.Interment will be at the Beulah Cemetery in North Eastern Wichita County following the funeral service.Memorials may be given to the "Wichita County Amusement Association," "The Wichita County EMTs" or "First Baptist Church of Leoti" in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 161, Leoti, KS 67861.

Charles Leslie Blau

BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

Judge rules that Blue Springs School District discriminated against former student by barring him from boys’ locker room

After a decade-long legal battle, a transgender man and former student of the Blue Springs School District should receive over $4 million in damages for discrimination that occurred when he was an adolescent, the Missouri’s Western District Court of Appeals ruled Tuesday.

Judge Anthony Gabbert wrote the court’s unanimous decision, ruling that the school district discriminated against the student, identified by his initials R.M.A., on the basis of sex when it barred him from using the boys’ locker room.

A key part of the appellate court’s decision was the factor that spurred the school district’s discrimination.

Attorneys for the Blue Spring School District did not contest that R.M.A. was treated differently, according to Gabbert’s ruling, but said it was because of his “female genitalia.”

“School district employees suggested that R.M.A. had been excluded from the boys’ restrooms and locker rooms because of [the] school district’s belief that he had female genitalia,” Gabbert wrote. “[The] school district did not actually determine the nature of R.M.A.’s genitalia, however, and does not speculate, inspect or otherwise inquire as to the genitalia of other male students.”

The admission of different treatment based on assumed genitalia, Gabbert wrote, was itself discrimination on the basis of sex.

Part of the judicial proceedings included testimony from R.M.A.’s doctor, who said R.M.A. was a male for as long as she has been treating him (which began at age nine).

During his time as a student, R.M.A. received an updated birth certificate with his male gender identity.

School district employees and school board members told R.M.A.’s mother that locker-room access is determined by birth certificate. After she gave the corrected birth certificate to school district officials, R.M.A. was still denied access to boys’ restrooms and locker rooms.

The school board discussed R.M.A’s birth certificate in a closed-door meeting, according to court documents, but never gave his mother a clear answer about the policy.

“The evidence at trial… was that (Blue Springs) School District had an unwritten policy of using birth certificates to determine sex,” Gabbert wrote. “Yet, [the] school district refused to tell R.M.A.’s mother that it would honor a corrected birth certificate stating he is male because (it) wanted to keep its options open in the event R.M.A. was able to obtain a corrected birth certificate.”

R.M.A’s birth certificate was amended in December 2014, around a year after he began asking to use the locker room that aligned with his gender identity and two months after he filed a complaint with the Missouri Commission on Human Rights.

R.M.A. filed the lawsuit in October 2015, starting a complicated legal process. The initial trial court dismissed his claim in 2016, saying the Missouri Human Rights Act does not protect claims on the basis of gender identity. The Missouri Supreme Court, in 2019,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226814519.html">reversed this decision</a>&nbsp;and opened the doors for another trial.

A December 2021 jury trial awarded R.M.A. over $4.7 million in damages and legal fees, but attorneys for the Blue Springs School District asked for a “judgment notwithstanding the verdict,” a ruling that allows a judge to usurp a jury’s decision.&nbsp;

The school district argued that R.M.A. only proved that he was discriminated against “because of his female genitalia” and not on the basis of sex.

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-06-07/judge-throws-out-a-jurys-4-million-verdict-in-favor-of-a-blue-springs-transgender-student">trial court judge sided with the school district</a>, which would have spurred another trial. But Tuesday’s decision reverses that judge’s call, returning the case back to the jury’s verdict.

There are other similar cases currently winding through Missouri’s courts, including a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/01/aclu-sues-missouri-school-district-for-transgender-bathroom-policy/">lawsuit against the Platte County School District</a>&nbsp;brought by the ACLU of Missouri.

The Blue Springs School District could not be reached for comment by time of publication.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717532352272.png" alt="An appellate court unanimously ruled Tuesday that a transgender man who formerly attended the Blue Springs School District was discriminated against when he was barred from using the boys' locker room (photo illustration by Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder)." />
 <figcaption>An appellate court unanimously ruled Tuesday that a transgender man who formerly attended the Blue Springs School District was discriminated against when he was barred from using the boys' locker room (photo illustration by Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a><h2>Judge rules that Blue Springs School District discriminated against former student by barring him from boys’ locker room</h2>After a decade-long legal battle, a transgender man and former student of the Blue Springs School District should receive over $4 million in damages for discrimination that occurred when he was an adolescent, the Missouri’s Western District Court of Appeals ruled Tuesday.Judge Anthony Gabbert wrote the court’s unanimous decision, ruling that the school district discriminated against the student, identified by his initials R.M.A., on the basis of sex when it barred him from using the boys’ locker room.A key part of the appellate court’s decision was the factor that spurred the school district’s discrimination.Attorneys for the Blue Spring School District did not contest that R.M.A. was treated differently, according to Gabbert’s ruling, but said it was because of his “female genitalia.”“School district employees suggested that R.M.A. had been excluded from the boys’ restrooms and locker rooms because of [the] school district’s belief that he had female genitalia,” Gabbert wrote. “[The] school district did not actually determine the nature of R.M.A.’s genitalia, however, and does not speculate, inspect or otherwise inquire as to the genitalia of other male students.”The admission of different treatment based on assumed genitalia, Gabbert wrote, was itself discrimination on the basis of sex.<h2>Let us know what you think...</h2>Part of the judicial proceedings included testimony from R.M.A.’s doctor, who said R.M.A. was a male for as long as she has been treating him (which began at age nine).During his time as a student, R.M.A. received an updated birth certificate with his male gender identity.School district employees and school board members told R.M.A.’s mother that locker-room access is determined by birth certificate. After she gave the corrected birth certificate to school district officials, R.M.A. was still denied access to boys’ restrooms and locker rooms.The school board discussed R.M.A’s birth certificate in a closed-door meeting, according to court documents, but never gave his mother a clear answer about the policy.“The evidence at trial… was that (Blue Springs) School District had an unwritten policy of using birth certificates to determine sex,” Gabbert wrote. “Yet, [the] school district refused to tell R.M.A.’s mother that it would honor a corrected birth certificate stating he is male because (it) wanted to keep its options open in the event R.M.A. was able to obtain a corrected birth certificate.”R.M.A’s birth certificate was amended in December 2014, around a year after he began asking to use the locker room that aligned with his gender identity and two months after he filed a complaint with the Missouri Commission on Human Rights.R.M.A. filed the lawsuit in October 2015, starting a complicated legal process. The initial trial court dismissed his claim in 2016, saying the Missouri Human Rights Act does not protect claims on the basis of gender identity. The Missouri Supreme Court, in 2019,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article226814519.html">reversed this decision</a>&nbsp;and opened the doors for another trial.A December 2021 jury trial awarded R.M.A. over $4.7 million in damages and legal fees, but attorneys for the Blue Springs School District asked for a “judgment notwithstanding the verdict,” a ruling that allows a judge to usurp a jury’s decision.&nbsp;The school district argued that R.M.A. only proved that he was discriminated against “because of his female genitalia” and not on the basis of sex.The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-06-07/judge-throws-out-a-jurys-4-million-verdict-in-favor-of-a-blue-springs-transgender-student">trial court judge sided with the school district</a>, which would have spurred another trial. But Tuesday’s decision reverses that judge’s call, returning the case back to the jury’s verdict.There are other similar cases currently winding through Missouri’s courts, including a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/01/aclu-sues-missouri-school-district-for-transgender-bathroom-policy/">lawsuit against the Platte County School District</a>&nbsp;brought by the ACLU of Missouri.The Blue Springs School District could not be reached for comment by time of publication.

Court sides with transgender student in $4 million discrimination case

NEW YORK (AP) — San Diego Padres infielder&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/tucupita-marcano">Tucupita Marcano</a>&nbsp;was banned from baseball for life for betting on the sport and four others were suspended for one year by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mlb">Major League Baseball</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday in the game’s biggest gambling scandal in decades.

MLB said Marcano placed 387 baseball bets totaling more than $150,000 in October 2022 and from last July through November with a legal sportsbook. He became the first active player in a century banned for life because of gambling.

Oakland Athletics pitcher Michael Kelly was suspended for one year for betting on baseball while in the minor leagues and a three minor leaguers also were banned for one year for betting on big league games: pitchers Jay Groome of San Diego and Andrew Saalfrank of Arizona, and infielder José Rodríguez of Philadelphia. Each of those four players wagered under $1,000.

“The strict enforcement of Major League Baseball’s rules and policies governing gambling conduct is a critical component of upholding our most important priority: protecting the integrity of our games for the fans,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. “The longstanding prohibition against betting on Major League Baseball games by those in the sport has been a bedrock principle for over a century. We have been clear that the privilege of playing in baseball comes with a responsibility to refrain from engaging in certain types of behavior that are legal for other people.”

Marcano was the first active major leaguer banned for life under the sport's gambling provision since New York Giants outfielder Jimmy O'Connell in 1924. Pete Rose, baseball's career hits leader, agreed to a lifetime ban in 1989 after an investigation concluded he bet on Cincinnati Reds games while managing the team.

Major League Rule 21, posted in every clubhouse, states betting on any baseball game in which a player, umpire, league official or team employee has no duty to perform results in a one-year suspension. Betting on a game in which the person has a duty to perform results in a lifetime ban.

Marcano became the second North American athlete banned for gambling in recent months.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nba-jontay-porter-banned-265ad5cb703d9483347037762ee90a8f#">The NBA gave Toronto's Jontay Porter a lifetime ban in April</a>&nbsp;after concluding he disclosed confidential information to bettors and wagered on games, including on the Raptors to lose.

MLB said it was tipped off about the betting activity by a legal sports betting operator. None of the players punished played in any games on which they wagered, and all players denied to MLB they had inside information relevant to their bets or the games they gambled on – testimonies that MLB says align with the data received from the sportsbook.

In its announcement, MLB detailed the bets alleged for each player,

Marcano’s 387 baseball bets included 231 MLB-related wagers for $87,319 between Oct. 16, 2022, and last Nov. 1. Twenty-five of those bets included wagers on Pirates games while he was on the team’s major league roster. Now 24, Marcano, has not played since tearing his right ACL last July 24 and was receiving medical treatment at PNC Park last year.

Marcano bet almost exclusively on the outcomes of games and lost all of his parlay bets involving the Pirates, winning just 4.3% of all of his MLB-related bets.

Marcano made his major league debut on April 1, 2021, and has a .217 average with five homers, 34 RBIs and seven stolen bases in 149 games. He has played in both the infield and outfield.

The other four players did not bet on games involving their assigned teams.

Kelly placed 10 bets on nine major league games from Oct. 5-17, 2021, while a minor league player assigned to Houston's Triple-A Sugar Land farm team. The bets included wagers on outcomes, over/under on runs and an individual pitcher’s strikeout total. Three of the nine games involved the major league Astros. His wagers totaled $99.22 and resulted in $28.30 of winnings.

Kelly, 31, was 3-2 with a 2.59 ERA in 28 games this season, last pitching on Saturday at Atlanta. The former first-round draft pick appeared in 46 games over the past three seasons.

Groome, a 25-year-old who had been on a minor league injured list since mid-April, placed 32 MLB-related bets from July 22, 2020, through July 24, 2021, including 24 on the Boston Red Sox major league team while he was assigned to Boston's High-A team in Greenville, South Carolina. The sport detailed he wagered $453.74 on 30 MLB games and had a net loss of $433.54, receiving payouts on only two wagers. His betting included parlays.

Rodríguez, 23, has been at Double-A Reading this season. He placed 31 bets on baseball on Sept. 30, 2021, and from June 5 through July 30 in 2022, including 28 on MLB and three on college baseball. The total included seven involving the Chicago White Sox at the time he was assigned to their Double-A team in Birmingham, Alabama. Two of the White Sox bets involved outcomes and the others were on runs scored. He bet $749.09 on baseball, of which $724.09 was on MLB-related bets that included parlays.

Saalfrank, 26, pitched in 21 games for Arizona last year between the regular season and postseason, including three World Series games, and two this year before he was optioned to Triple-A Reno on May 1. He placed 29 baseball bets from Sept. 9 through Oct. 29 in 2021 and on March 9, 2022, including 28 on MLB and one parlay on college baseball. He placed four bets on the big league Diamondbacks while on the injured list of their Low A farm team. His baseball bets totaled $445.87 on baseball, including $444.07 on MLB, and lost $272.64 on MLB bets and $1.80 on the college wager. He won just five of 28 MLB bets, which included outcomes, runs and pitcher strikeouts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717513899838.png" alt="Marcano photo courtesy San Diego Patres" />
 <figcaption>Marcano photo courtesy San Diego Patres</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — San Diego Padres infielder&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/tucupita-marcano">Tucupita Marcano</a>&nbsp;was banned from baseball for life for betting on the sport and four others were suspended for one year by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mlb">Major League Baseball</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday in the game’s biggest gambling scandal in decades.MLB said Marcano placed 387 baseball bets totaling more than $150,000 in October 2022 and from last July through November with a legal sportsbook. He became the first active player in a century banned for life because of gambling.Oakland Athletics pitcher Michael Kelly was suspended for one year for betting on baseball while in the minor leagues and a three minor leaguers also were banned for one year for betting on big league games: pitchers Jay Groome of San Diego and Andrew Saalfrank of Arizona, and infielder José Rodríguez of Philadelphia. Each of those four players wagered under $1,000.“The strict enforcement of Major League Baseball’s rules and policies governing gambling conduct is a critical component of upholding our most important priority: protecting the integrity of our games for the fans,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. “The longstanding prohibition against betting on Major League Baseball games by those in the sport has been a bedrock principle for over a century. We have been clear that the privilege of playing in baseball comes with a responsibility to refrain from engaging in certain types of behavior that are legal for other people.”Marcano was the first active major leaguer banned for life under the sport's gambling provision since New York Giants outfielder Jimmy O'Connell in 1924. Pete Rose, baseball's career hits leader, agreed to a lifetime ban in 1989 after an investigation concluded he bet on Cincinnati Reds games while managing the team.Major League Rule 21, posted in every clubhouse, states betting on any baseball game in which a player, umpire, league official or team employee has no duty to perform results in a one-year suspension. Betting on a game in which the person has a duty to perform results in a lifetime ban.Marcano became the second North American athlete banned for gambling in recent months.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nba-jontay-porter-banned-265ad5cb703d9483347037762ee90a8f#">The NBA gave Toronto's Jontay Porter a lifetime ban in April</a>&nbsp;after concluding he disclosed confidential information to bettors and wagered on games, including on the Raptors to lose.MLB said it was tipped off about the betting activity by a legal sports betting operator. None of the players punished played in any games on which they wagered, and all players denied to MLB they had inside information relevant to their bets or the games they gambled on – testimonies that MLB says align with the data received from the sportsbook.In its announcement, MLB detailed the bets alleged for each player,Marcano’s 387 baseball bets included 231 MLB-related wagers for $87,319 between Oct. 16, 2022, and last Nov. 1. Twenty-five of those bets included wagers on Pirates games while he was on the team’s major league roster. Now 24, Marcano, has not played since tearing his right ACL last July 24 and was receiving medical treatment at PNC Park last year.Marcano bet almost exclusively on the outcomes of games and lost all of his parlay bets involving the Pirates, winning just 4.3% of all of his MLB-related bets.Marcano made his major league debut on April 1, 2021, and has a .217 average with five homers, 34 RBIs and seven stolen bases in 149 games. He has played in both the infield and outfield.The other four players did not bet on games involving their assigned teams.Kelly placed 10 bets on nine major league games from Oct. 5-17, 2021, while a minor league player assigned to Houston's Triple-A Sugar Land farm team. The bets included wagers on outcomes, over/under on runs and an individual pitcher’s strikeout total. Three of the nine games involved the major league Astros. His wagers totaled $99.22 and resulted in $28.30 of winnings.Kelly, 31, was 3-2 with a 2.59 ERA in 28 games this season, last pitching on Saturday at Atlanta. The former first-round draft pick appeared in 46 games over the past three seasons.Groome, a 25-year-old who had been on a minor league injured list since mid-April, placed 32 MLB-related bets from July 22, 2020, through July 24, 2021, including 24 on the Boston Red Sox major league team while he was assigned to Boston's High-A team in Greenville, South Carolina. The sport detailed he wagered $453.74 on 30 MLB games and had a net loss of $433.54, receiving payouts on only two wagers. His betting included parlays.Rodríguez, 23, has been at Double-A Reading this season. He placed 31 bets on baseball on Sept. 30, 2021, and from June 5 through July 30 in 2022, including 28 on MLB and three on college baseball. The total included seven involving the Chicago White Sox at the time he was assigned to their Double-A team in Birmingham, Alabama. Two of the White Sox bets involved outcomes and the others were on runs scored. He bet $749.09 on baseball, of which $724.09 was on MLB-related bets that included parlays.Saalfrank, 26, pitched in 21 games for Arizona last year between the regular season and postseason, including three World Series games, and two this year before he was optioned to Triple-A Reno on May 1. He placed 29 baseball bets from Sept. 9 through Oct. 29 in 2021 and on March 9, 2022, including 28 on MLB and one parlay on college baseball. He placed four bets on the big league Diamondbacks while on the injured list of their Low A farm team. His baseball bets totaled $445.87 on baseball, including $444.07 on MLB, and lost $272.64 on MLB bets and $1.80 on the college wager. He won just five of 28 MLB bets, which included outcomes, runs and pitcher strikeouts.

MLB gambling scandal: Padres infielder banned for life

Linda A. Dinning, age 74, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado. &nbsp;She was born on October 11, 1949, in Dodge City, Kansas, the daughter of Howard &amp; Joan Harger Koehn. &nbsp;A lifetime resident of Scott City, Kansas, she worked at Park Lane Nursing Home for 16 years in Scott City, Kansas.

In 1984 she married David Dinning in Scott City, Kansas. &nbsp;He passed away on September 28, 2006 in Hays, Kansas.

Survivors include her Two Sons - Hank Dinning of Lenexa, Kansas, David J. &amp; Cindi Dinning of Larned, Kansas, One Daughter - Dana Dinning of Plano, Texas, Two Granddaughters - Faith Dinning of Garfield, Kansas, Kiley Schlesener of Louisburg, Kansas, One Grandson - Christian Dinning of Ellis, Kansas, One Great Grandson - Jace Schlesener.

She is preceded in death by her Parents and Husband.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717451185385.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Linda A. Dinning, age 74, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colorado. &nbsp;She was born on October 11, 1949, in Dodge City, Kansas, the daughter of Howard &amp; Joan Harger Koehn. &nbsp;A lifetime resident of Scott City, Kansas, she worked at Park Lane Nursing Home for 16 years in Scott City, Kansas.In 1984 she married David Dinning in Scott City, Kansas. &nbsp;He passed away on September 28, 2006 in Hays, Kansas.She was a member of the Christian Faith.Survivors include her Two Sons - Hank Dinning of Lenexa, Kansas, David J. &amp; Cindi Dinning of Larned, Kansas, One Daughter - Dana Dinning of Plano, Texas, Two Granddaughters - Faith Dinning of Garfield, Kansas, Kiley Schlesener of Louisburg, Kansas, One Grandson - Christian Dinning of Ellis, Kansas, One Great Grandson - Jace Schlesener.She is preceded in death by her Parents and Husband.A private memorial service will be held at a later date.There are no calling times.

Linda Ann Dinning

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications

Kansas regulators report 93 new intent-to-drill notices in May, 413 so far this year, compared to 448 through May of last year. Barton County records five new intents, ten so far this year. Ellis County has a new one for a total of three. The Kansas Corporation Commission reports one new intent in Russell County. That's four so far this year. In Stafford County there are six for the year, with two new ones reported in May.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 26 new well completions for the week, with one each in Barton, Ellis and Russell counties, out of 12 in western Kansas.

Regulators gave their okay to 40 new drilling locations in Kansas, including one new permit in Russell County, out of 21 west of Wichita. That's 377 new permits so far this year, compared to 529 a year ago at this time.

Oil and gas activity in Kansas lags behind last year, which was nothing to brag about. Drilling activity is down 34% from last year, a year that saw statewide crude production drop to its lowest total on record. The Kansas Rig Count is up 7% from a month ago but down 6% from a year ago. The tally is up two rigs at 19 in the western half of the state.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was down one oil rig and up one gas rig for a total of 600 active rigs. The tallies in Oklahoma and New Mexico were each down one. Louisiana was up one.

Domestic commercial crude inventories dropped by 4.2 million barrels a day last week according to the Energy Information Administration. Stockpiles are about four percent below the five-year average, at 454 million barrels.

The government bought another half million barrels of crude oil last week as part of ongoing efforts to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Total strategic reserves topped 618 million barrels back in October of 2021. Following the Ukraine invasion and subsequent Russian sanctions, the government sold off millions of barrels at over $95 a barrel. Now they're buying it back at under $80. The Energy Information Administration reports 369.3 million barrels of total strategic reserves as of May 24, up more than 3.5 million barrels since refill operations resumed in April. That marks a savings of more than $52 million.

The U.S. is a net petroleum exporter, but continues to import more crude oil than we ship out by just under 1.8 million barrels per day. Petroleum product exports tip the balance. Crude imports averaged just under 6.7 million barrels a day last week. Crude exports averaged 4.2 million barrels per day.

A slight increase in crude production in Alaska accounts for the slight increase nationwide. The Energy Information Administration reports total output of 13,122,000 barrels per day, up six thousand barrels from a week ago. Average output and average cumulative output so far this year are each up more than a million barrels a day from a year ago.

The top oil-and-gas regulator in Texas reports a big seasonal drop in February crude production from totals that were already below average. Operators in the Lone Star State pumped 131 million barrels in February, down 16 million barrels a day from January and 700,000 daily barrels lower than a year earlier. Output in January was already below average from severe winter weather. 

Natural gas production was down ten percent from a month earlier, and 4% lower year-over-year.&nbsp;Output in the number three producing state was up in March compared to February, but the daily average, in the longer month, was down two percent. 

The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports crude oil production reached 1.22 million barrels a day. Natural gas production reached an all-time record, as did the number of producing oil and gas wells in the state.

The United Arab Emirates makes good on recent promises to refocus on natural gas, by purchasing it's first-ever equity stake in a U.S. company. Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, or ADNOC, is buying a 12% stake in a Texas liquefied natural gas export facility, along with a 20-year supply agreement. The announcement makes no mention of either the price or the Administration's current pause on liquefied natural gas  export permitting. ADNOC also recently announced it's buying part of a gas project in the east-African nation of Mozambique, and a chemical plant in Europe. Abu Dhabi join the U.S. and Saudi Arabia among major oil producers refocusing exploration and marketing toward natural gas. Saudi-Aramco is following through on its announced plans to expand into liquefied natural gas  with the purchase of a huge facility in Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle CommunicationsKansas regulators report 93 new intent-to-drill notices in May, 413 so far this year, compared to 448 through May of last year. Barton County records five new intents, ten so far this year. Ellis County has a new one for a total of three. The Kansas Corporation Commission reports one new intent in Russell County. That's four so far this year. In Stafford County there are six for the year, with two new ones reported in May.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports 26 new well completions for the week, with one each in Barton, Ellis and Russell counties, out of 12 in western Kansas.Regulators gave their okay to 40 new drilling locations in Kansas, including one new permit in Russell County, out of 21 west of Wichita. That's 377 new permits so far this year, compared to 529 a year ago at this time.Oil and gas activity in Kansas lags behind last year, which was nothing to brag about. Drilling activity is down 34% from last year, a year that saw statewide crude production drop to its lowest total on record. The Kansas Rig Count is up 7% from a month ago but down 6% from a year ago. The tally is up two rigs at 19 in the western half of the state.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was down one oil rig and up one gas rig for a total of 600 active rigs. The tallies in Oklahoma and New Mexico were each down one. Louisiana was up one.Domestic commercial crude inventories dropped by 4.2 million barrels a day last week according to the Energy Information Administration. Stockpiles are about four percent below the five-year average, at 454 million barrels.The government bought another half million barrels of crude oil last week as part of ongoing efforts to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Total strategic reserves topped 618 million barrels back in October of 2021. Following the Ukraine invasion and subsequent Russian sanctions, the government sold off millions of barrels at over $95 a barrel. Now they're buying it back at under $80. The Energy Information Administration reports 369.3 million barrels of total strategic reserves as of May 24, up more than 3.5 million barrels since refill operations resumed in April. That marks a savings of more than $52 million.The U.S. is a net petroleum exporter, but continues to import more crude oil than we ship out by just under 1.8 million barrels per day. Petroleum product exports tip the balance. Crude imports averaged just under 6.7 million barrels a day last week. Crude exports averaged 4.2 million barrels per day.A slight increase in crude production in Alaska accounts for the slight increase nationwide. The Energy Information Administration reports total output of 13,122,000 barrels per day, up six thousand barrels from a week ago. Average output and average cumulative output so far this year are each up more than a million barrels a day from a year ago.The top oil-and-gas regulator in Texas reports a big seasonal drop in February crude production from totals that were already below average. Operators in the Lone Star State pumped 131 million barrels in February, down 16 million barrels a day from January and 700,000 daily barrels lower than a year earlier. Output in January was already below average from severe winter weather. Natural gas production was down ten percent from a month earlier, and 4% lower year-over-year.&nbsp;Output in the number three producing state was up in March compared to February, but the daily average, in the longer month, was down two percent. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports crude oil production reached 1.22 million barrels a day. Natural gas production reached an all-time record, as did the number of producing oil and gas wells in the state.The United Arab Emirates makes good on recent promises to refocus on natural gas, by purchasing it's first-ever equity stake in a U.S. company. Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, or ADNOC, is buying a 12% stake in a Texas liquefied natural gas export facility, along with a 20-year supply agreement. The announcement makes no mention of either the price or the Administration's current pause on liquefied natural gas export permitting. ADNOC also recently announced it's buying part of a gas project in the east-African nation of Mozambique, and a chemical plant in Europe. Abu Dhabi join the U.S. and Saudi Arabia among major oil producers refocusing exploration and marketing toward natural gas. Saudi-Aramco is following through on its announced plans to expand into liquefied natural gas with the purchase of a huge facility in Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News From the Oil Patch: Government saves $52M refilling Strategic Petroleum Reserve

TOPEKA—Kansas&nbsp;district&nbsp;courts affected by an Oct. 12 cybersecurity incident have finished working through a backlog of new cases and paper documents filed while&nbsp;court&nbsp;information systems were offline from mid-October to early January.

District&nbsp;courts in 104 counties switched to paper filings after&nbsp;court&nbsp;information systems managed by the Office of Judicial Administration were taken offline following the Oct. 12 cybersecurity incident.

“After the cybersecurity incident, our first goal was to restore all&nbsp;court&nbsp;information systems safely and securely,” Chief Justice Marla Luckert said. “Once these systems were restored, district&nbsp;court&nbsp;staff then had to work through a backlog of paper filings to bring the district&nbsp;court&nbsp;case management system up to date. That work is now complete.”

Some&nbsp;courts reduced the hours their&nbsp;court&nbsp;clerk offices were open to give staff uninterrupted time to focus on working through their paper backlogs.

As&nbsp;courts finished this work, some of their&nbsp;court&nbsp;clerk office staff helped&nbsp;courts in other judicial districts work through their backlogs. A statewide workshare team numbering about a dozen people from&nbsp;court&nbsp;clerk offices in several judicial districts helped multiple&nbsp;courts work through their backlogs.

“I’m infinitely grateful to the judges and&nbsp;court&nbsp;employees who worked to overcome the challenges our&nbsp;court&nbsp;system faced following the cybersecurity incident,” Luckert said. “I’m also grateful for the understanding and patience shown to our&nbsp;courts by attorneys and the public as we worked to continue to provide service under trying circumstances.”

Working across lines that define judicial districts and counties was not possible before the judicial branch began rolling out a new case management system in district&nbsp;courts statewide.

By August 2023, all district&nbsp;courts operated on the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/QBf3akVCxgLprDaWuqeW0GrWYZXRkvCulrAv5Rs5lhQ" target="_blank">Kansas&nbsp;eCourt case management system</a>&nbsp;except the&nbsp;court&nbsp;in Johnson County. The Johnson County District&nbsp;Court&nbsp;will transition to the new case management system later this year.

This new case management system also makes it possible for people to search most district&nbsp;court&nbsp;case information online through the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/QBf3akVCxgLprDaWuqeW0CzNMT7YlfmX5NfWaHw2Da4" target="_blank">Kansas&nbsp;District&nbsp;Court&nbsp;Public Access Portal</a>.

Now that all&nbsp;courts have worked through their paper backlogs, the portal now has information from the period&nbsp;courts were operating on paper.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696967207582.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA—Kansas&nbsp;district&nbsp;courts affected by an Oct. 12 cybersecurity incident have finished working through a backlog of new cases and paper documents filed while&nbsp;court&nbsp;information systems were offline from mid-October to early January.District&nbsp;courts in 104 counties switched to paper filings after&nbsp;court&nbsp;information systems managed by the Office of Judicial Administration were taken offline following the Oct. 12 cybersecurity incident.“After the cybersecurity incident, our first goal was to restore all&nbsp;court&nbsp;information systems safely and securely,” Chief Justice Marla Luckert said. “Once these systems were restored, district&nbsp;court&nbsp;staff then had to work through a backlog of paper filings to bring the district&nbsp;court&nbsp;case management system up to date. That work is now complete.”Some&nbsp;courts reduced the hours their&nbsp;court&nbsp;clerk offices were open to give staff uninterrupted time to focus on working through their paper backlogs.As&nbsp;courts finished this work, some of their&nbsp;court&nbsp;clerk office staff helped&nbsp;courts in other judicial districts work through their backlogs. A statewide workshare team numbering about a dozen people from&nbsp;court&nbsp;clerk offices in several judicial districts helped multiple&nbsp;courts work through their backlogs.“I’m infinitely grateful to the judges and&nbsp;court&nbsp;employees who worked to overcome the challenges our&nbsp;court&nbsp;system faced following the cybersecurity incident,” Luckert said. “I’m also grateful for the understanding and patience shown to our&nbsp;courts by attorneys and the public as we worked to continue to provide service under trying circumstances.”Working across lines that define judicial districts and counties was not possible before the judicial branch began rolling out a new case management system in district&nbsp;courts statewide.By August 2023, all district&nbsp;courts operated on the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/QBf3akVCxgLprDaWuqeW0GrWYZXRkvCulrAv5Rs5lhQ" target="_blank">Kansas&nbsp;eCourt case management system</a>&nbsp;except the&nbsp;court&nbsp;in Johnson County. The Johnson County District&nbsp;Court&nbsp;will transition to the new case management system later this year.This new case management system also makes it possible for people to search most district&nbsp;court&nbsp;case information online through the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/QBf3akVCxgLprDaWuqeW0CzNMT7YlfmX5NfWaHw2Da4" target="_blank">Kansas&nbsp;District&nbsp;Court&nbsp;Public Access Portal</a>.Now that all&nbsp;courts have worked through their paper backlogs, the portal now has information from the period&nbsp;courts were operating on paper.

Kansas district courts finish working through backlog of paper filings

Donald Craig Donecker, 66, passed away June 1, 2024, at his home in Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;He was born October 1, 1957, in Great Bend, to Donald and Carolyn (Drews) Donecker. &nbsp;Craig married Anna Keffer Oct. 5, 1974, in Great Bend.

Craig, a longtime resident of Great Bend living in Claflin from 1976 - 2005, had owned and operated Little Giant Fittings Company since 1995. &nbsp;Prior to operating Little Giant Fittings, Craig worked for Rice Engineering. &nbsp;He was a member of Our Saviour Lutheran Church and Claflin Lions Club. Craig enjoyed pheasant, deer, and duck hunting, fishing, and wrenching on his VW dune buggies. &nbsp;Above all, he treasured time spent with his family. &nbsp;Being civically minded, Craig held a high regard for Lions International, administrating many state-wide events as Past District Governor.

Survivors include wife Anna Donecker of the home; two sons, Jonathan Donecker and wife Misty of Pawnee Rock, Kan.; and Jeffery Donecker and wife Megan of Claflin; five grandchildren, Hunter, Gage, Temprance, Philip, and JoAnna Donecker; one brother, Kevin Donecker and wife Elaine of Claflin; one sister, Cherlyn Maier and husband Rodney of Claflin; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 6, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church, Ellinwood, Kan., with Rev. Kenton Abbott presiding.&nbsp; Interment will follow at Claflin Cemetery, Claflin.&nbsp; Visitation will be held 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 4, and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, 2024, with the family receiving friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home, Great Bend. &nbsp;Memorials may be given to Kansas Lions Foundation or Our Saviour Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS &nbsp;67530.

Donald Craig Donecker, 66, passed away June 1, 2024, at his home in Great Bend, Kan. &nbsp;He was born October 1, 1957, in Great Bend, to Donald and Carolyn (Drews) Donecker. &nbsp;Craig married Anna Keffer Oct. 5, 1974, in Great Bend.Craig, a longtime resident of Great Bend living in Claflin from 1976 - 2005, had owned and operated Little Giant Fittings Company since 1995. &nbsp;Prior to operating Little Giant Fittings, Craig worked for Rice Engineering. &nbsp;He was a member of Our Saviour Lutheran Church and Claflin Lions Club. Craig enjoyed pheasant, deer, and duck hunting, fishing, and wrenching on his VW dune buggies. &nbsp;Above all, he treasured time spent with his family. &nbsp;Being civically minded, Craig held a high regard for Lions International, administrating many state-wide events as Past District Governor.Survivors include wife Anna Donecker of the home; two sons, Jonathan Donecker and wife Misty of Pawnee Rock, Kan.; and Jeffery Donecker and wife Megan of Claflin; five grandchildren, Hunter, Gage, Temprance, Philip, and JoAnna Donecker; one brother, Kevin Donecker and wife Elaine of Claflin; one sister, Cherlyn Maier and husband Rodney of Claflin; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 6, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church, Ellinwood, Kan., with Rev. Kenton Abbott presiding.&nbsp; Interment will follow at Claflin Cemetery, Claflin.&nbsp; Visitation will be held 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 4, and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, 2024, with the family receiving friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home, Great Bend. &nbsp;Memorials may be given to Kansas Lions Foundation or Our Saviour Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS &nbsp;67530.

Donald Craig Donecker

Kathleen Ann “Kathy” McFarren, 71, passed away Thursday, May 30, 2024, at her home in Great Bend, Kansas. She was born on October 29, 1952, in Hoisington, Kansas, to Elmer and Elsie (Moeder) Hill, and was lovingly nicknamed “Kitten”. On December 26, 1970, she married Terry McFarren in Goodland, Kansas.

A resident of Great Bend for 53 years, Kathy was a homemaker, being very dedicated to having a clean home. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Kathy was an avid reader, and loved her family, especially spoiling her grandchildren, and her dogs, specifically Grace.&nbsp;

Survivors include her husband of the home; two sons, Troy McFarren and wife Shelly of Great Bend, and Travis McFarren and wife Marina of Castle Rock, Colorado; eight grandchildren, Trey, Trenton, Camron, Kenda, Tyler, Makayla, Emily and Garrett; ten great grandchildren; three brothers, David Hill and wife Jolene of Great Bend, Peter Hill and wife Jen, of Phoenix, Arizona, and Tim Hill and wife Katie of Phoenix, Arizona; two sisters, Mary Channell of Great Bend, and Betsy Edwards and husband John of Wamego; and former sister-in-law, Tina (Mallette) Hill of Phoenix, Arizona.

She is preceded in death by her parents; and brother, John Hill.

Memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Father Warren Stecklein presiding. Memorials have been designated to Dementia Society of America or American Cancer Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.

Kathleen Ann “Kathy” McFarren, 71, passed away Thursday, May 30, 2024, at her home in Great Bend, Kansas. She was born on October 29, 1952, in Hoisington, Kansas, to Elmer and Elsie (Moeder) Hill, and was lovingly nicknamed “Kitten”. On December 26, 1970, she married Terry McFarren in Goodland, Kansas.A resident of Great Bend for 53 years, Kathy was a homemaker, being very dedicated to having a clean home. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Kathy was an avid reader, and loved her family, especially spoiling her grandchildren, and her dogs, specifically Grace.&nbsp;Survivors include her husband of the home; two sons, Troy McFarren and wife Shelly of Great Bend, and Travis McFarren and wife Marina of Castle Rock, Colorado; eight grandchildren, Trey, Trenton, Camron, Kenda, Tyler, Makayla, Emily and Garrett; ten great grandchildren; three brothers, David Hill and wife Jolene of Great Bend, Peter Hill and wife Jen, of Phoenix, Arizona, and Tim Hill and wife Katie of Phoenix, Arizona; two sisters, Mary Channell of Great Bend, and Betsy Edwards and husband John of Wamego; and former sister-in-law, Tina (Mallette) Hill of Phoenix, Arizona.She is preceded in death by her parents; and brother, John Hill.Memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Father Warren Stecklein presiding. Memorials have been designated to Dementia Society of America or American Cancer Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.

Kathleen Ann “Kathy” McFarren

Lifelong Wallace, Kansas resident Goldie Louise (Lock) Daily, passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at&nbsp;Hope Springs Care Home in Sharon Springs, KS. &nbsp;She was 91.

Goldie was born October 9, 1932 to Cecil Clyde Lock and Frances Mabel (Collins) Lock on the family farm in rural Wallace County, West of Wallace on Pond Creek. She was brought into the world by her great grandmother Emily Collins. The oldest of 10 children she was a loving, caring helper to her parents.

She attended 1st-8th grade at Wallace Grade School. Goldie completed 7th and 8th grade in one school term. She was very proud of this accomplishment. She graduated from Wallace County Community High School in 1949.&nbsp;

On November 5, 1950 she married S.L. Daily on the Lock family farm. Together Goldie and S.L. had a loving home and marriage for 65 years. To this marriage 7 children were born.&nbsp;

Goldie was a homemaker until 1972 when she began a 20-year career as the cook at Wallace Grade School until retiring in 1992.

&nbsp;She was a member of the Sharon Springs Methodist Church, the Busy Bee Women’s Club and a 4-H leader. Many 4-Hers were fortunate to be guided by her as she shared her gifts of cooking and sewing. Late nights were spent sewing perfectly tailored clothes for her children. Goldie was known for the beautiful wedding cakes she made for family, friends and members of the community. She enjoyed working in her large vegetable and flower gardens. It brought her great joy to host family gatherings as well as extended visits from nieces, nephews and of course her grandchildren. Even in her later years, she looked forward to attending the county fair with her family. You could find her in the gym supporting local sporting events of her children and grandchildren as recent as 5 months ago. Goldie was honored to be featured in the book, “Raising the West”, a collection of experiences and stories shared by several women from the community.&nbsp;

She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, sisters Gladys and Gloria, and several brother and sister-in-laws.&nbsp;

She is survived by her children; Lynn (Kathy) Daily El Dorado, KS, Curtis (Melinda) Daily, Wallace, KS, Gail (Dan) Lewis, Dresden, KS, Ann (Fred) Husband, New Caney, TX, Laura (Daryl) Stegman, Spearville, KS, David (Jori) Daily, Sharon Springs, KS and Edith (Trevor) Jensen, St. George, KS. &nbsp;

She is also survived by 26 grandchildren; Nicole Daily, Terin (Kelly) Walters, Chanity and Joshua Daily, Brent Hensley, Jeremy (Bethany) Samson, Jeffrey (Misty) Samson, Kyle Lewis, Dustin (Dee) Lewis, Jay (Heather) Lewis, Evan Husband, Dara Bruins, Jessica Stegman, Katie (Brad) Rice, Cayden (Jenna) Daily, Jaelyn Daily, Logan (Tayler) Jensen and Allie Jensen; 11 great grandchildren and 1 great great-grandchild.&nbsp;

Other surviving family members include her siblings; Georgia Pancake, Sharon Springs, KS, Clydene Young, Salina , KS, Leon (Patty) Lock, Wallace, KS, Lee (Pauline) Lock, Wallace, KS, Elaine Fischer, Sharon Springs, KS, Larry (Sharon) Lock, Scott City, KS and Dale (Judy) Lock, Saginaw, TX and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made out to the Wallace County 4-H and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

Lifelong Wallace, Kansas resident Goldie Louise (Lock) Daily, passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at&nbsp;Hope Springs Care Home in Sharon Springs, KS. &nbsp;She was 91.Goldie was born October 9, 1932 to Cecil Clyde Lock and Frances Mabel (Collins) Lock on the family farm in rural Wallace County, West of Wallace on Pond Creek. She was brought into the world by her great grandmother Emily Collins. The oldest of 10 children she was a loving, caring helper to her parents.She attended 1st-8th grade at Wallace Grade School. Goldie completed 7th and 8th grade in one school term. She was very proud of this accomplishment. She graduated from Wallace County Community High School in 1949.&nbsp;On November 5, 1950 she married S.L. Daily on the Lock family farm. Together Goldie and S.L. had a loving home and marriage for 65 years. To this marriage 7 children were born.&nbsp;Goldie was a homemaker until 1972 when she began a 20-year career as the cook at Wallace Grade School until retiring in 1992.&nbsp;She was a member of the Sharon Springs Methodist Church, the Busy Bee Women’s Club and a 4-H leader. Many 4-Hers were fortunate to be guided by her as she shared her gifts of cooking and sewing. Late nights were spent sewing perfectly tailored clothes for her children. Goldie was known for the beautiful wedding cakes she made for family, friends and members of the community. She enjoyed working in her large vegetable and flower gardens. It brought her great joy to host family gatherings as well as extended visits from nieces, nephews and of course her grandchildren. Even in her later years, she looked forward to attending the county fair with her family. You could find her in the gym supporting local sporting events of her children and grandchildren as recent as 5 months ago. Goldie was honored to be featured in the book, “Raising the West”, a collection of experiences and stories shared by several women from the community.&nbsp;She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, sisters Gladys and Gloria, and several brother and sister-in-laws.&nbsp;She is survived by her children; Lynn (Kathy) Daily El Dorado, KS, Curtis (Melinda) Daily, Wallace, KS, Gail (Dan) Lewis, Dresden, KS, Ann (Fred) Husband, New Caney, TX, Laura (Daryl) Stegman, Spearville, KS, David (Jori) Daily, Sharon Springs, KS and Edith (Trevor) Jensen, St. George, KS. &nbsp;She is also survived by 26 grandchildren; Nicole Daily, Terin (Kelly) Walters, Chanity and Joshua Daily, Brent Hensley, Jeremy (Bethany) Samson, Jeffrey (Misty) Samson, Kyle Lewis, Dustin (Dee) Lewis, Jay (Heather) Lewis, Evan Husband, Dara Bruins, Jessica Stegman, Katie (Brad) Rice, Cayden (Jenna) Daily, Jaelyn Daily, Logan (Tayler) Jensen and Allie Jensen; 11 great grandchildren and 1 great great-grandchild.&nbsp;Other surviving family members include her siblings; Georgia Pancake, Sharon Springs, KS, Clydene Young, Salina , KS, Leon (Patty) Lock, Wallace, KS, Lee (Pauline) Lock, Wallace, KS, Elaine Fischer, Sharon Springs, KS, Larry (Sharon) Lock, Scott City, KS and Dale (Judy) Lock, Saginaw, TX and many nieces and nephews.Memorial contributions may be made out to the Wallace County 4-H and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

Goldie Louise (Lock) Daily

Nancy Jane Hanson Smith who passed away Tuesday morning, May 28, 2024, at The Journey Home, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, at the age of 85. She was born November 12, 1938, to John Malcolm and Dorothy Anne Robar Hanson at Boston Osteopathic Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.

Nancy attended Medford Hillside Grade School in Medford, Massachusetts. After moving from Medford to Denver, Colorado in 1949, she continued her schooling and graduated from Aurora High School, Class of 1956.

Nancy was united in marriage to Samie Lee Smith on October 1, 1961, at the First Christian Church in Hoxie, Kansas. Nancy and Sam raised three children- Bryan Leighton, Scott Lathan, and Shanda Sue.

Nancy was a homemaker until 1974 when she began working outside the home as the deputy County Clerk at the Sheridan County Courthouse in Hoxie. Later, Nancy and Sam purchased Mrs. D’s Shoppe, a ladies clothing store in Hoxie, and she operated that store for many years. Nancy may also be fondly remembered as manager at the Hoxie Short Stop, the local Ben Franklin store, bookkeeping for the Hoxie Coop or working at Red’s Convenience Store. Nancy was a “people person” and especially enjoyed her volunteer time with the Hoxie Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Wagon.

Nancy enjoyed working with her hands, from knitting and sewing, to baking goodies, and playing the piano. She most loved taking care of her family, especially the time with her grandkids.

Nancy was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church, where she served as Elder and in the women’s organizations. She was a Cub Scout leader for many years and enjoyed membership in the Cultus Club and Order of Eastern Star, all in Hoxie. Nancy was a part of Monday Night Bible Study Group for many years.

In 2005, Nancy and Sam moved to Independence, Kansas to be closer to their children and for health reasons. Nancy began volunteering with the Mercy Hospital Auxiliary and attended church at the First Church of the Nazarene. She spent countless hours helping with the church’s community clothes closet and did so for many years. Nancy was a member of Sassy Sisters, and enjoyed playing cards every Wednesday evening with a group of friends.

Survivors include her sons Bryan Smith, Tulsa, OK; Scott Smith and wife Anne, Dallas, TX; daughter Shanda Chambers and husband James, Independence, KS; grandchildren Lathan Smith; Eden Smith; Courtney (Chris) Goen; and Logan Chambers; and great granddaughters Savannah and Taylor Goen.

Nancy is preceded in death by her parents; husband Sam in July 2012; brothers John M. Hanson, Jr. and Richard S. Hanson; grandchildren Kalan N. Smith and Ashley N. Chambers.

Nancy was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was a gift from God, and now she has returned to His care, leaving her family and friends’ lives richer from her positivity and many cherished memories.

A Graveside Service for Nancy is planned for Saturday, June 15, 2024, 2:00 P.M., at the Hoxie City Cemetery, Hoxie, Kansas. Following the service all are invited to the Hoxie United Methodist Church to greet the family, share memories, and refreshments.

Nancy Jane Hanson Smith who passed away Tuesday morning, May 28, 2024, at The Journey Home, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, at the age of 85. She was born November 12, 1938, to John Malcolm and Dorothy Anne Robar Hanson at Boston Osteopathic Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.Nancy attended Medford Hillside Grade School in Medford, Massachusetts. After moving from Medford to Denver, Colorado in 1949, she continued her schooling and graduated from Aurora High School, Class of 1956.Nancy was united in marriage to Samie Lee Smith on October 1, 1961, at the First Christian Church in Hoxie, Kansas. Nancy and Sam raised three children- Bryan Leighton, Scott Lathan, and Shanda Sue.Nancy was a homemaker until 1974 when she began working outside the home as the deputy County Clerk at the Sheridan County Courthouse in Hoxie. Later, Nancy and Sam purchased Mrs. D’s Shoppe, a ladies clothing store in Hoxie, and she operated that store for many years. Nancy may also be fondly remembered as manager at the Hoxie Short Stop, the local Ben Franklin store, bookkeeping for the Hoxie Coop or working at Red’s Convenience Store. Nancy was a “people person” and especially enjoyed her volunteer time with the Hoxie Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Wagon.Nancy enjoyed working with her hands, from knitting and sewing, to baking goodies, and playing the piano. She most loved taking care of her family, especially the time with her grandkids.Nancy was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church, where she served as Elder and in the women’s organizations. She was a Cub Scout leader for many years and enjoyed membership in the Cultus Club and Order of Eastern Star, all in Hoxie. Nancy was a part of Monday Night Bible Study Group for many years.In 2005, Nancy and Sam moved to Independence, Kansas to be closer to their children and for health reasons. Nancy began volunteering with the Mercy Hospital Auxiliary and attended church at the First Church of the Nazarene. She spent countless hours helping with the church’s community clothes closet and did so for many years. Nancy was a member of Sassy Sisters, and enjoyed playing cards every Wednesday evening with a group of friends.Survivors include her sons Bryan Smith, Tulsa, OK; Scott Smith and wife Anne, Dallas, TX; daughter Shanda Chambers and husband James, Independence, KS; grandchildren Lathan Smith; Eden Smith; Courtney (Chris) Goen; and Logan Chambers; and great granddaughters Savannah and Taylor Goen.Nancy is preceded in death by her parents; husband Sam in July 2012; brothers John M. Hanson, Jr. and Richard S. Hanson; grandchildren Kalan N. Smith and Ashley N. Chambers.Nancy was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was a gift from God, and now she has returned to His care, leaving her family and friends’ lives richer from her positivity and many cherished memories.A Graveside Service for Nancy is planned for Saturday, June 15, 2024, 2:00 P.M., at the Hoxie City Cemetery, Hoxie, Kansas. Following the service all are invited to the Hoxie United Methodist Church to greet the family, share memories, and refreshments.

Nancy Jane Hanson Smith

Larry Randall Roda, of Munjor, an Air Force veteran, loving husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, one day after the proud patriot celebrated his last Memorial Day. He was 78 years old.

He was born in Russell, Kansas on October 27, 1945, the son of George W. and Mary Amanda (Ellis) Roda, and he made most of his lifelong friends growing up there.&nbsp; He enlisted in the military after graduating from high school and never neglected an opportunity to proudly recount the “4 years, 8 months and 29 days” he served before being honorably discharged to care for his family after his only brother, Doug, was killed in an accident.&nbsp; Larry served his country with great pride, continued to support his fellow vets throughout his life, and held his status as an Air Force veteran in high esteem; second only to the love of his life, “Seyona May,” who he spent 33 cherished years with.&nbsp;

After his honorable discharge, Larry worked for the Union Pacific Railroad and retired after spending 25 years (and one day) with UPS.&nbsp; His legacy extends far beyond his working years where he brightened countless lives, making friends along his familiar routes. He didn’t know a stranger, would lend a helping hand to anyone in need, and you knew you were loved by Larry if you were assigned a nickname from him.

Larry was a devoted husband who would do anything for his wife, “the little woman,” and cared for her until his dying day and loved his family, friends, and his beloved chocolate lab Sadie Marie immensely.&nbsp; He was an avid hunter, skilled trap shooter, loved drag racing, and gambling.&nbsp; Larry would immediately migrate to the high limits area the minute he walked through the casino doors. He did hit a few of those large jackpots, but mostly he would say with a smirk, “I donated.”&nbsp;

Larry was a tough old bird and lived his life with perseverance, strength, and courage – which he especially demonstrated during his valiant battle with cancer. &nbsp;We will miss his orneriness, one-of-a-kind sense of humor, unique lingo, spark for life, and the way he filled every room he entered with his larger-than-life personality.

Survivors include his wife Seyona of Munjor, two sons, Kevin Roda and wife Tracie of Baird, TX and Ky Roda of Texas, two daughters, Carla Flipse and husband Dave of Shawnee and Stacy Dittmer and husband Wesley of Parkville, MO, eight grandchildren, Kirk Allen Roda and wife Keri, Bryce Roda and wife Summer, Kody Roda and wife Makenzie, Kashe Roda, Catie Flipse, Lexi Flipse and fiancé Josh, Sidney Dittmer and Lauren Dittmer, five great grandchildren, and many cherished friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Douglas Roda, and his beloved dog, Sadie Marie.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Monday, June 3, 2024 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Rick Griffin and Fr. Damian Richards officiating.  Burial with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard will follow in the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery in WaKeeney.  Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Sunday and from 9:00 am until service time on Monday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.  Memorials are suggested to Humane Society of the High Plains, VFW Post #9076, or to Freedom Service Dogs of America.  Condolences and memories of Larry may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717206110557.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Larry Randall Roda, of Munjor, an Air Force veteran, loving husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, one day after the proud patriot celebrated his last Memorial Day. He was 78 years old.He was born in Russell, Kansas on October 27, 1945, the son of George W. and Mary Amanda (Ellis) Roda, and he made most of his lifelong friends growing up there.&nbsp; He enlisted in the military after graduating from high school and never neglected an opportunity to proudly recount the “4 years, 8 months and 29 days” he served before being honorably discharged to care for his family after his only brother, Doug, was killed in an accident.&nbsp; Larry served his country with great pride, continued to support his fellow vets throughout his life, and held his status as an Air Force veteran in high esteem; second only to the love of his life, “Seyona May,” who he spent 33 cherished years with.&nbsp;After his honorable discharge, Larry worked for the Union Pacific Railroad and retired after spending 25 years (and one day) with UPS.&nbsp; His legacy extends far beyond his working years where he brightened countless lives, making friends along his familiar routes. He didn’t know a stranger, would lend a helping hand to anyone in need, and you knew you were loved by Larry if you were assigned a nickname from him.Larry was a devoted husband who would do anything for his wife, “the little woman,” and cared for her until his dying day and loved his family, friends, and his beloved chocolate lab Sadie Marie immensely.&nbsp; He was an avid hunter, skilled trap shooter, loved drag racing, and gambling.&nbsp; Larry would immediately migrate to the high limits area the minute he walked through the casino doors. He did hit a few of those large jackpots, but mostly he would say with a smirk, “I donated.”&nbsp;Larry was a tough old bird and lived his life with perseverance, strength, and courage – which he especially demonstrated during his valiant battle with cancer. &nbsp;We will miss his orneriness, one-of-a-kind sense of humor, unique lingo, spark for life, and the way he filled every room he entered with his larger-than-life personality.Survivors include his wife Seyona of Munjor, two sons, Kevin Roda and wife Tracie of Baird, TX and Ky Roda of Texas, two daughters, Carla Flipse and husband Dave of Shawnee and Stacy Dittmer and husband Wesley of Parkville, MO, eight grandchildren, Kirk Allen Roda and wife Keri, Bryce Roda and wife Summer, Kody Roda and wife Makenzie, Kashe Roda, Catie Flipse, Lexi Flipse and fiancé Josh, Sidney Dittmer and Lauren Dittmer, five great grandchildren, and many cherished friends.He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Douglas Roda, and his beloved dog, Sadie Marie.Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Monday, June 3, 2024 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Rick Griffin and Fr. Damian Richards officiating. Burial with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard will follow in the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery in WaKeeney. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Sunday and from 9:00 am until service time on Monday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to Humane Society of the High Plains, VFW Post #9076, or to Freedom Service Dogs of America. Condolences and memories of Larry may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com

Larry Randall Roda

Charles Edward Lane was born October 22, 1943, in Garden City, KS to Robert Page and Lottie Mae (Vannaman) Lane. He passed away May 24, 2024, in Salina, KS. He attended schools in Garden City, KS and Scott City, KS. After graduating high school, he played football for the junior college at Garden City Community College. Charles then joined the air force where he met Peggy Baker whom he married. While in Garden he worked for the City Electric Co. and Dave Crab Electric. He also trimmed Trees with Butch Knight for years as a sideline. He moved to Ponca City, OK in his later years to fish, hunt, and tend cattle. His last couple of years he lived in Salina, KS to be close to family.

Charles is survived by 1 daughter Tina (Rick) Leister; a Granddaughter Aubrey Knox; and a great grandson Ezra Helvey. He is also survived by a sister Linda (Tim) Parker; Nephew Christopher (Sabrina) Lane; great niece Emma Mae Lane all from Salina, KS; 2 Step daughters Sheryl McRee and Pam (Mike) Anderson; 6 Step grandchildren; and 15 great step grandchildren.

Charles is proceeded in death by his parents; grandparents Ray &amp; Evilo Vannaman; several uncles and aunts; and 1 step grandson Victor Cabrera.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City with Rev. Steve Payne officiating. Interment to follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City.

Charles Edward Lane was born October 22, 1943, in Garden City, KS to Robert Page and Lottie Mae (Vannaman) Lane. He passed away May 24, 2024, in Salina, KS. He attended schools in Garden City, KS and Scott City, KS. After graduating high school, he played football for the junior college at Garden City Community College. Charles then joined the air force where he met Peggy Baker whom he married. While in Garden he worked for the City Electric Co. and Dave Crab Electric. He also trimmed Trees with Butch Knight for years as a sideline. He moved to Ponca City, OK in his later years to fish, hunt, and tend cattle. His last couple of years he lived in Salina, KS to be close to family.Charles is survived by 1 daughter Tina (Rick) Leister; a Granddaughter Aubrey Knox; and a great grandson Ezra Helvey. He is also survived by a sister Linda (Tim) Parker; Nephew Christopher (Sabrina) Lane; great niece Emma Mae Lane all from Salina, KS; 2 Step daughters Sheryl McRee and Pam (Mike) Anderson; 6 Step grandchildren; and 15 great step grandchildren.Charles is proceeded in death by his parents; grandparents Ray &amp; Evilo Vannaman; several uncles and aunts; and 1 step grandson Victor Cabrera.Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City with Rev. Steve Payne officiating. Interment to follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City.

Charles Edward Lane

Dixie Lee Black, age 90, formerly of Johnson, Kansas, died Saturday, May 25, 2024, at her home in Joplin, Missouri. The daughter of Roy and Vera (Conard) Wilkerson, she was born on October 12, 1933, in a rock house in southwest Stanton County near the Manter Dam.

She was a Registered Nurse for 50+ years- many of those were in Stanton County with Dr. Daily and Dr. Bill. Eventually she retired to Joplin, Missouri. She enjoyed fishing and bird watching, she adored her dogs, camping at the lake, reading the Johnson Pioneer, spending time with her grandchildren and reading her Bible.

Dixie is survived by one son, Edward Combs of Joplin, Missouri, sister, Lynne Rodriguez of Garden City, Kansas; her beloved dog, Zoe; grandchildren, Misty Posey, Mindy Lum, Derek Gibson, Brittany Combs, Chance Combs, Shaina Combs, Kelcee Felker, Jacob Posey, Haley Posey, Taylor Posey, and Cortlen Combs; and many great and great-great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Larry Black; sons, Jerry and Danny Combs; daughter, Penny Combs; mother, Vera Wilkerson; father, Roy Wilkerson; and sister, Betty Johnson.

Graveside service will be Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Ulysses Cemetery in Ulysses, Kansas with Pastor Andy McMillan officiating. Arrangements are in the care of Garnand Funeral Home, PO Box 715, Johnson, KS 67855. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.

Dixie Lee Black, age 90, formerly of Johnson, Kansas, died Saturday, May 25, 2024, at her home in Joplin, Missouri. The daughter of Roy and Vera (Conard) Wilkerson, she was born on October 12, 1933, in a rock house in southwest Stanton County near the Manter Dam.She was a Registered Nurse for 50+ years- many of those were in Stanton County with Dr. Daily and Dr. Bill. Eventually she retired to Joplin, Missouri. She enjoyed fishing and bird watching, she adored her dogs, camping at the lake, reading the Johnson Pioneer, spending time with her grandchildren and reading her Bible.Dixie is survived by one son, Edward Combs of Joplin, Missouri, sister, Lynne Rodriguez of Garden City, Kansas; her beloved dog, Zoe; grandchildren, Misty Posey, Mindy Lum, Derek Gibson, Brittany Combs, Chance Combs, Shaina Combs, Kelcee Felker, Jacob Posey, Haley Posey, Taylor Posey, and Cortlen Combs; and many great and great-great grandchildren.She is preceded in death by her husband, Larry Black; sons, Jerry and Danny Combs; daughter, Penny Combs; mother, Vera Wilkerson; father, Roy Wilkerson; and sister, Betty Johnson.Graveside service will be Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Ulysses Cemetery in Ulysses, Kansas with Pastor Andy McMillan officiating. Arrangements are in the care of Garnand Funeral Home, PO Box 715, Johnson, KS 67855. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.

Dixie Lee Black

Judy Kay Humburg, age 80 died at Arkansas City, Kansas on Saturday, May 25, 2024. &nbsp;She was born on October 15, 1943, at St. Rose Hospital in Great Bend, Kansas, the daughter of John George and Geraldine (Phillips) Humburg and baptized in the United Methodist Church.

Judy was a very well loved and special woman. She was a queen in her own right and she made sure everyone knew it. Judy was always smiling and had a sassy attitude that everyone who came into contact with her could not help but be charmed by. She loved getting dressed up in her fanciest clothing and having her hair and make-up done each day. Judy was the definition of class and charm. Judy loved to watch the world go by and spend quiet time watching nature. She also had a close relationship with her sisters who, even though they lived far away, still kept in contact with her over the years. Judy was a peaceful intuitive woman who loved spending time with her peers, friends and staff. While she enjoyed living her relaxed retired lifestyle, she still loved going out to parties such as the Prom and going out on activities with her Day services and her peers. Judy was an amazing woman who touched the hearts of her peers and staff. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew her.

She was admitted to the Winfield State Hospital at the age of 10 because of illness that left her severely handicapped and then resided at the Creative Living Community in Arkansas City, Kansas for many years.

She is proceeded in death by her mother, Geraldine F. (Phillips) Clyne and her father, John G. Humburg, her stepfather, Harold Thomas Clyne and her brother-in-law, Dr. Keith Gawith.

Survivors include two sisters: JoAnne Wildeman and husband Robert of Colorado Springs, CO and Jan Gawith of Lexington, SC. She had 1 niece and 3 nephews and several grandnieces and grandnephews. Her cousins are J.C. Humburg of Ness City, KS and Robert Humburg of Phoenix, Arizona and Don and Judy Humburg of Ness City, KS.

Services are arranged by Fitzgerald Funeral Home. &nbsp;The graveside service will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the Ness City Cemetery.

The family would like to express our deep appreciation to all the Care Providers who have carefully watched over Judy Kay all these years. &nbsp;Judy taught her family a great deal about compassion, love, and guidance of the Holy Spirit – she gave much more than she took from life.

Words of comfort and support may be left for the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717092511794.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Judy Kay Humburg, age 80 died at Arkansas City, Kansas on Saturday, May 25, 2024. &nbsp;She was born on October 15, 1943, at St. Rose Hospital in Great Bend, Kansas, the daughter of John George and Geraldine (Phillips) Humburg and baptized in the United Methodist Church.Judy was a very well loved and special woman. She was a queen in her own right and she made sure everyone knew it. Judy was always smiling and had a sassy attitude that everyone who came into contact with her could not help but be charmed by. She loved getting dressed up in her fanciest clothing and having her hair and make-up done each day. Judy was the definition of class and charm. Judy loved to watch the world go by and spend quiet time watching nature. She also had a close relationship with her sisters who, even though they lived far away, still kept in contact with her over the years. Judy was a peaceful intuitive woman who loved spending time with her peers, friends and staff. While she enjoyed living her relaxed retired lifestyle, she still loved going out to parties such as the Prom and going out on activities with her Day services and her peers. Judy was an amazing woman who touched the hearts of her peers and staff. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew her.She was admitted to the Winfield State Hospital at the age of 10 because of illness that left her severely handicapped and then resided at the Creative Living Community in Arkansas City, Kansas for many years.She is proceeded in death by her mother, Geraldine F. (Phillips) Clyne and her father, John G. Humburg, her stepfather, Harold Thomas Clyne and her brother-in-law, Dr. Keith Gawith.Survivors include two sisters: JoAnne Wildeman and husband Robert of Colorado Springs, CO and Jan Gawith of Lexington, SC. She had 1 niece and 3 nephews and several grandnieces and grandnephews. Her cousins are J.C. Humburg of Ness City, KS and Robert Humburg of Phoenix, Arizona and Don and Judy Humburg of Ness City, KS.Services are arranged by Fitzgerald Funeral Home. &nbsp;The graveside service will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the Ness City Cemetery.The family would like to express our deep appreciation to all the Care Providers who have carefully watched over Judy Kay all these years. &nbsp;Judy taught her family a great deal about compassion, love, and guidance of the Holy Spirit – she gave much more than she took from life.Words of comfort and support may be left for the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.

Judy Kay Humburg

The Kansas Department of Transportation will begin work on a pair of bridge repair projects along eastbound I-70 in Trego County starting Monday, June 3.

Project work will include milling, patching and resurfacing the bridge decks on the structures located approximately 5 miles east of WaKeeney and 4.3 miles east of Ogallah. Lane closures will be in effect through the work zones, with speeds reduced to 60 mph. KDOT reminds motorists to slow down and stay alert for construction equipment and crews when traveling through the work zones.

Project work is expected to be complete in early October, conditions permitting.

PbX Corp. of Salpulpa, Okla., is the primary contractor for the $707,000 project. For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Engineer Mitchel Johnson at 785-261-6132 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mitchel.johnson@ks.gov">mitchel.johnson@ks.gov</a>.

SubmittedThe Kansas Department of Transportation will begin work on a pair of bridge repair projects along eastbound I-70 in Trego County starting Monday, June 3.Project work will include milling, patching and resurfacing the bridge decks on the structures located approximately 5 miles east of WaKeeney and 4.3 miles east of Ogallah. Lane closures will be in effect through the work zones, with speeds reduced to 60 mph. KDOT reminds motorists to slow down and stay alert for construction equipment and crews when traveling through the work zones.Project work is expected to be complete in early October, conditions permitting.PbX Corp. of Salpulpa, Okla., is the primary contractor for the $707,000 project. For more information, contact KDOT Area Construction Engineer Mitchel Johnson at 785-261-6132 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mitchel.johnson@ks.gov">mitchel.johnson@ks.gov</a>.

I-70 bridge repairs starting in Trego County

Richard Lee Blake, 70, passed away May 23, 2024, at University of Kansas Health Systems – ER, Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on October 6, 1953, in Hays, Kansas to James and Ella “Lee” (Duke) Blake. On May 13, 1975, he married Joan Gardner in Townsend, Massachusetts; they later divorced.

A lifetime resident of Hoisington, Kansas, Richard worked as a manager and cook at The Rack Billiard Café. Prior to that, he spent most of his life working in the oilfield. He enjoyed watching sports, including the Kansas City Chiefs, and spending time with his family, especially with his grandson.

Survivors include daughter, Cindy Blake of Great Bend; grandson, James Blake of Great Bend; three brothers, Bill Blake and wife, Pat, of San Diego, California, Mike Asbury of Winfield, Kansas, and John Massey of Plymouth Falls, Oregon; numerous nieces and nephews; and ex-wife, Joan.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, James Blake, Jr.; sisters, Connie Vasquez and Pam Moore; and grandparents, Robert and Clemmie Bradley.

Visitation will take place from noon to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 30, 2024, with family receiving guests from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 31, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Reverend Dick Ogle presiding. Inurnment will take place at 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 3, 2024, at Hoisington City Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to the Richard Blake Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.

Richard Lee Blake, 70, passed away May 23, 2024, at University of Kansas Health Systems – ER, Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on October 6, 1953, in Hays, Kansas to James and Ella “Lee” (Duke) Blake. On May 13, 1975, he married Joan Gardner in Townsend, Massachusetts; they later divorced.A lifetime resident of Hoisington, Kansas, Richard worked as a manager and cook at The Rack Billiard Café. Prior to that, he spent most of his life working in the oilfield. He enjoyed watching sports, including the Kansas City Chiefs, and spending time with his family, especially with his grandson.Survivors include daughter, Cindy Blake of Great Bend; grandson, James Blake of Great Bend; three brothers, Bill Blake and wife, Pat, of San Diego, California, Mike Asbury of Winfield, Kansas, and John Massey of Plymouth Falls, Oregon; numerous nieces and nephews; and ex-wife, Joan.He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, James Blake, Jr.; sisters, Connie Vasquez and Pam Moore; and grandparents, Robert and Clemmie Bradley.Visitation will take place from noon to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 30, 2024, with family receiving guests from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 31, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Reverend Dick Ogle presiding. Inurnment will take place at 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 3, 2024, at Hoisington City Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to the Richard Blake Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.

Richard Lee Blake

Georgia Jane Moore, 98, Hays, died Thursday, March 21, 2024 at Trego-Lemke Memorial Hospital Long Term Care.

She was born October 25, 1925 on a Rawlins County farm in far northwest Kansas. Her parents, George and Edith (Kleint) Wolfram, were first generation Americans. All four of her grandparents were born in Europe and immigrated to the United States from Austria and Germany. Georgia was the middle child of three sisters and named after her father. And like him, she was a voracious reader all of her life. Along with her older sister, she took an active role in the work needed to handle a farming and livestock operation. Hers was a family without sons. She said, “My sister and I were the boys, we worked with our dad.” A harvest hand once called the girls “workin’ fools.”

Georgia graduated from Herndon High School with the Class of 1943 and was its last surviving member. She and her sisters followed the lead of their Aunt Alma Kleint by attending and graduating from Fort Hays State. They were second generation Fort Hays Staters. Georgia’s chosen fields were business and education and she excelled in both. At the conclusion of World War II, she met Ed Moore upon his return to Hays. They married in 1948 and celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary on May 1, 2020. He predeceased her four weeks later.

In 1965, she and Ed established Moore Tours International, a travel agency that they would operate for the next 50 years. This agency afforded her the opportunity to become a world traveler and tour guide. She excelled in both. People appreciated the way she took care and watched after them when they were out of the United States or in Washington, D.C. for a scholastic tour. 

Her pastimes even as a young person included knitting and baking. Her Christmas fruitcakes were of her own recipe and were exquisite. She continued to enjoy these pastimes all her life. 

She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Hays. Her faith was an important part of her life. Long before she became an elder in the Presbyterian Church, she was a Sunday school teacher for elementary and junior high students. Georgia was able to live in her own home until the last four weeks of her life.

Survivors include her son Ed Moore of Excelsior Springs, MO, daughter Renee Garrett (Steve Jorgensen) of Hays, sister Lois Horner (Aubrey) of Alvin, TX, grandsons David Bendett (Amber) of Corpus Christi, TX and Greg Moore of Excelsior Springs, MO, granddaughter Rachel Moore of Fayette, MO, and great grandchildren Tristan Moore and Cadence and Zion Bendett.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, a daughter-in-law Theresa Moore, a sister Anna Mae Ketterl, brother-in-law, Clarence Ketterl, a brother-in-law Dennis Leitner, and a great-granddaughter Eden Bendett.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Christine Wagner officiating. Inurnment will follow in Mount Allen Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until service time on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the church. 

Memorials are suggested to the First Presbyterian Church. Services are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Georgia may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711717359381.png" alt="Georgia Moore" />
 <figcaption>Georgia Moore</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>GEORGIA JANE MOORE, HAYS</h2>October 25, 1925 - March 21, 2024Georgia Jane Moore, 98, Hays, died Thursday, March 21, 2024 at Trego-Lemke Memorial Hospital Long Term Care.She was born October 25, 1925 on a Rawlins County farm in far northwest Kansas. Her parents, George and Edith (Kleint) Wolfram, were first generation Americans. All four of her grandparents were born in Europe and immigrated to the United States from Austria and Germany. Georgia was the middle child of three sisters and named after her father. And like him, she was a voracious reader all of her life. Along with her older sister, she took an active role in the work needed to handle a farming and livestock operation. Hers was a family without sons. She said, “My sister and I were the boys, we worked with our dad.” A harvest hand once called the girls “workin’ fools.”Georgia graduated from Herndon High School with the Class of 1943 and was its last surviving member. She and her sisters followed the lead of their Aunt Alma Kleint by attending and graduating from Fort Hays State. They were second generation Fort Hays Staters. Georgia’s chosen fields were business and education and she excelled in both. At the conclusion of World War II, she met Ed Moore upon his return to Hays. They married in 1948 and celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary on May 1, 2020. He predeceased her four weeks later.In 1965, she and Ed established Moore Tours International, a travel agency that they would operate for the next 50 years. This agency afforded her the opportunity to become a world traveler and tour guide. She excelled in both. People appreciated the way she took care and watched after them when they were out of the United States or in Washington, D.C. for a scholastic tour. Her pastimes even as a young person included knitting and baking. Her Christmas fruitcakes were of her own recipe and were exquisite. She continued to enjoy these pastimes all her life. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Hays. Her faith was an important part of her life. Long before she became an elder in the Presbyterian Church, she was a Sunday school teacher for elementary and junior high students. Georgia was able to live in her own home until the last four weeks of her life.Survivors include her son Ed Moore of Excelsior Springs, MO, daughter Renee Garrett (Steve Jorgensen) of Hays, sister Lois Horner (Aubrey) of Alvin, TX, grandsons David Bendett (Amber) of Corpus Christi, TX and Greg Moore of Excelsior Springs, MO, granddaughter Rachel Moore of Fayette, MO, and great grandchildren Tristan Moore and Cadence and Zion Bendett.She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, a daughter-in-law Theresa Moore, a sister Anna Mae Ketterl, brother-in-law, Clarence Ketterl, a brother-in-law Dennis Leitner, and a great-granddaughter Eden Bendett.Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Christine Wagner officiating. Inurnment will follow in Mount Allen Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until service time on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the church. Memorials are suggested to the First Presbyterian Church. Services are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Georgia may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com.