Rocky&nbsp;L. Yoder, 68, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Monday,&nbsp;March 6, 2023, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.

Rocky was born November 17, 1954, in Cheyenne&nbsp;Wells, Colorado. &nbsp;He was one&nbsp;of five children born to Wilbur&nbsp;and&nbsp;Phyllis (Bedker) Yoder. &nbsp;At the age of 12, he started working in construction with his father. &nbsp;At 16, he worked&nbsp;at&nbsp;Jerry's Texaco Station&nbsp;changing tires and assisting with the pumps. &nbsp;In high school, he became interested in Rodeo&nbsp;bull riding. &nbsp;He graduated from Littleton High School.&nbsp;&nbsp;He then attended two years at Sterling College before he started working at the Arabian Horse Registry in Illinois. Later he returned to college and got a Degree in Agriculture Science. He moved to Russell, Kansas, in 2004.

Rocky&nbsp;was united in marriage to&nbsp;Brenda Schmidtberger on October 1, 2011, in Hays, Kansas. &nbsp;They made their home in Russell.

Rocky worked at the Land&nbsp;O Lakes where he did the rations for cattle feed. &nbsp;He was a member of&nbsp;St. John Lutheran Church in&nbsp;Russell and&nbsp;St. Fidelis Catholic Church in Victoria,&nbsp;Kansas. &nbsp;He was known for his artistic wood carvings and had&nbsp;Art shows at the&nbsp;Deines&nbsp;Cultural&nbsp;Center and the 4-H Building in Russell.

Rocky’s surviving family include his&nbsp;wife of 11 years, Brenda of the home;&nbsp;two brothers, Larry Yoder (Karen) of Hugoton, Kansas and Randy Yoder (Shelley) of&nbsp;Wauneta, Nebraska; sister, Nancy&nbsp;Noble&nbsp;(Steve) of Lincoln, Nebraska; and many nieces and nephews and friends.

Rocky was preceded in death by his parents and sister Melody Burr.

Celebration of Rocky’s Life will be held at 11:00 AM,&nbsp;Friday, April 21, 2023, at St. John Lutheran Church of Russell. &nbsp;Cremation has taken place.&nbsp;Condolences may be&nbsp;sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681313256243.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rocky&nbsp;L. Yoder, 68, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Monday,&nbsp;March 6, 2023, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.Rocky was born November 17, 1954, in Cheyenne&nbsp;Wells, Colorado. &nbsp;He was one&nbsp;of five children born to Wilbur&nbsp;and&nbsp;Phyllis (Bedker) Yoder. &nbsp;At the age of 12, he started working in construction with his father. &nbsp;At 16, he worked&nbsp;at&nbsp;Jerry's Texaco Station&nbsp;changing tires and assisting with the pumps. &nbsp;In high school, he became interested in Rodeo&nbsp;bull riding. &nbsp;He graduated from Littleton High School.&nbsp;&nbsp;He then attended two years at Sterling College before he started working at the Arabian Horse Registry in Illinois. Later he returned to college and got a Degree in Agriculture Science. He moved to Russell, Kansas, in 2004.Rocky&nbsp;was united in marriage to&nbsp;Brenda Schmidtberger on October 1, 2011, in Hays, Kansas. &nbsp;They made their home in Russell.Rocky worked at the Land&nbsp;O Lakes where he did the rations for cattle feed. &nbsp;He was a member of&nbsp;St. John Lutheran Church in&nbsp;Russell and&nbsp;St. Fidelis Catholic Church in Victoria,&nbsp;Kansas. &nbsp;He was known for his artistic wood carvings and had&nbsp;Art shows at the&nbsp;Deines&nbsp;Cultural&nbsp;Center and the 4-H Building in Russell.Rocky’s surviving family include his&nbsp;wife of 11 years, Brenda of the home;&nbsp;two brothers, Larry Yoder (Karen) of Hugoton, Kansas and Randy Yoder (Shelley) of&nbsp;Wauneta, Nebraska; sister, Nancy&nbsp;Noble&nbsp;(Steve) of Lincoln, Nebraska; and many nieces and nephews and friends.Rocky was preceded in death by his parents and sister Melody Burr.Celebration of Rocky’s Life will be held at 11:00 AM,&nbsp;Friday, April 21, 2023, at St. John Lutheran Church of Russell. &nbsp;Cremation has taken place.&nbsp;Condolences may be&nbsp;sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Rocky L. Yoder

Francis Frank Unrein, age 89, of Gorham, Kansas, passed away Sunday, April 9, 2023, at the Girard Medical Center in Girard, Kansas.

He was&nbsp;born October 8, 1933, in Schoenchen, Kansas, to Peter and Agatha (Leikam) Unrein. &nbsp;He married Ellen (Nowak) on February 1, 1958, at Gorham. &nbsp;She preceded him&nbsp;in death on September 12, 1982.&nbsp;Then&nbsp;he married Charlene (Braun) on May 9, 1998, at Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

He was lineman-in-charge at Midwest Energy for 38 years and retired in 1996. &nbsp;He grew up and attended school in Schoenchen then moved to Gorham in 1957. &nbsp;He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gorham 3rd&nbsp;degree Knights of Columbus, and a volunteer on the Gorham Fire Department for 15 years. He enjoyed restoring cars, riding motorcycles, playing cards, C-B radios, &nbsp;and doing wiring jobs on the side. &nbsp;

Survivors include his wife, Charlene Unrein, of the home; his children, Ernie Unrein, Parsons, KS; Glen Unrein and wife, Michele, Victoria, KS; Martin Unrein and wife, Kristy, Southaven, MS; his &nbsp;grandchildren, Audrey Lewis and husband, Jesse; Cory Unrein and wife, Tiffany; Amber Younger and husband, Joel; Courtney Unrein; Jordan&nbsp;Unrein; his nine&nbsp;great grandchildren;&nbsp;his step-children, David VonFeldt, Victoria; KS; Sandy Scheck, Hays, KS; Peggy Klaus and husband, Terry, Victoria, KS; his step-grandchildren, Cody Scheck and wife, Mikayla, Blake Klaus and wife, Macy; Trenton Klaus and wife, Jacy; Lori VonFeldt; his three step-great grandchildren; his brother, Clem Unrein and wife, Viola, Hays, KS; his sisters-in-law, Wilma Unrein,&nbsp;and Alice Unrein, Wichita, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Agatha; his&nbsp;former&nbsp;wife, Ellen; his step-son-in-law, Rick Scheck;&nbsp;his&nbsp;brothers/sisters&nbsp;and half-brothers/half-sisters,&nbsp;Emma Legleiter; Jake Unrein; Carl Unrein; Ben Unrein; Mary Zimmerman; Tony Unrein; Henry Unrein; Barb Hansen; John Unrein; Jenny Holzmeister; Paul Unrein; Celly Unrein; Alvin Unrein; Joe Unrein; Josie Unrein; and Larry Unrein.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, April 15, 2023, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gorham,&nbsp;with Father Michael Elan officiating. &nbsp;Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Gorham.

A Gorham Knights of Columbus rosary will be at 6:30 P.M. Friday, followed by a vigil service at 7:00 P.M. Friday, all&nbsp;at&nbsp;St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gorham.

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:30 P.M. Friday, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Saturday, all at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gorham.

The family suggests memorials payable to: St. Mary’s Catholic Church or St Mary’s Cemetery in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67601.&nbsp;

Condolences can be sent via e-mail to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a>&nbsp;or can be left at guest &nbsp;book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681234530884.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Francis Frank Unrein, age 89, of Gorham, Kansas, passed away Sunday, April 9, 2023, at the Girard Medical Center in Girard, Kansas.He was&nbsp;born October 8, 1933, in Schoenchen, Kansas, to Peter and Agatha (Leikam) Unrein. &nbsp;He married Ellen (Nowak) on February 1, 1958, at Gorham. &nbsp;She preceded him&nbsp;in death on September 12, 1982.&nbsp;Then&nbsp;he married Charlene (Braun) on May 9, 1998, at Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He was lineman-in-charge at Midwest Energy for 38 years and retired in 1996. &nbsp;He grew up and attended school in Schoenchen then moved to Gorham in 1957. &nbsp;He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gorham 3rd&nbsp;degree Knights of Columbus, and a volunteer on the Gorham Fire Department for 15 years. He enjoyed restoring cars, riding motorcycles, playing cards, C-B radios, &nbsp;and doing wiring jobs on the side. &nbsp;Survivors include his wife, Charlene Unrein, of the home; his children, Ernie Unrein, Parsons, KS; Glen Unrein and wife, Michele, Victoria, KS; Martin Unrein and wife, Kristy, Southaven, MS; his &nbsp;grandchildren, Audrey Lewis and husband, Jesse; Cory Unrein and wife, Tiffany; Amber Younger and husband, Joel; Courtney Unrein; Jordan&nbsp;Unrein; his nine&nbsp;great grandchildren;&nbsp;his step-children, David VonFeldt, Victoria; KS; Sandy Scheck, Hays, KS; Peggy Klaus and husband, Terry, Victoria, KS; his step-grandchildren, Cody Scheck and wife, Mikayla, Blake Klaus and wife, Macy; Trenton Klaus and wife, Jacy; Lori VonFeldt; his three step-great grandchildren; his brother, Clem Unrein and wife, Viola, Hays, KS; his sisters-in-law, Wilma Unrein,&nbsp;and Alice Unrein, Wichita, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Agatha; his&nbsp;former&nbsp;wife, Ellen; his step-son-in-law, Rick Scheck;&nbsp;his&nbsp;brothers/sisters&nbsp;and half-brothers/half-sisters,&nbsp;Emma Legleiter; Jake Unrein; Carl Unrein; Ben Unrein; Mary Zimmerman; Tony Unrein; Henry Unrein; Barb Hansen; John Unrein; Jenny Holzmeister; Paul Unrein; Celly Unrein; Alvin Unrein; Joe Unrein; Josie Unrein; and Larry Unrein.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, April 15, 2023, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gorham,&nbsp;with Father Michael Elan officiating. &nbsp;Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Gorham.A Gorham Knights of Columbus rosary will be at 6:30 P.M. Friday, followed by a vigil service at 7:00 P.M. Friday, all&nbsp;at&nbsp;St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gorham.Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:30 P.M. Friday, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Saturday, all at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Gorham.The family suggests memorials payable to: St. Mary’s Catholic Church or St Mary’s Cemetery in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67601.&nbsp;Condolences can be sent via e-mail to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a>&nbsp;or can be left at guest &nbsp;book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Francis Frank Unrein

Norman L. Nelson died peacefully at his home in Norton, Kansas, at 
the age of 85 on April 8th, 2023.  He was tended by his exceptional 
caregiver of seven years, Magda Dolotshahi of Great Bend.

Norman
 was born October 29, 1937, to Stanley Swan Nelson and Leila Mae 
(Scholl) Nelson, Long Island, Kansas. His was a home birth, delivered by
 well-known Dr. Herbert S. Bennie (“Dr. Bennie”) of Almena, Kansas, at 
the Nelson family house near land homesteaded in 1884 by Norman’s 
first-generation Swedish immigrant great-grandparents, Swan and Nellie 
Nelson. Norman’s official residence remained within 21 miles of his 
birthplace for his entire lifetime and yet his life reached far.

Norman
 attended Willowdale one-room country school, moving to Almena Grade 
School as a third grader and graduating from Almena Rural High School in
 1956. In high school, he was an officer in Future Farmers of America 
(FFA) and played football. Norman attended one semester at Kansas State 
University, Manhattan, Kansas, before returning home to Long Island to 
farm with his father as Nelson &amp; Son Farm.

On Easter 
Sunday, April 21, 1957, Norman married Gloria Ann Van Patten, Almena, 
Kansas, daughter of Loren and Mildred Van Patten of Almena. Norman and 
Gloria’s first home was a tiny one, a mile east of his parents’ home 
outside of Long Island, Kansas. They had four children: Sally, Terry, 
Troy and Lisa. They were married almost 66 years.

With a 
philosophy of dogged hard work, calculated risk-taking, business 
diversification and service, Norman, his father, his sons and their 
families built a business, over Norman’s adult lifetime, from 
approximately 500 acres and a few livestock to a multi-faceted 
agriculturally-based business that serves the family and counties 
throughout western Kansas and southwestern Nebraska with associations 
that reach much farther.

Nelson Farms Inc. was an early 
farm operation to realize the necessity of legal incorporation and 
gradually diversified into multiple entities including crop production, 
grain storage, fertilizer and chemicals, livestock production, feed 
processing, banking, and energy. Norman was innovative and quietly 
instrumental in changing the marketing system for beef to encourage a 
premium product which resulted in industry-wide progress.

In
 1990, First State Bank of Norton was purchased with a focus on 
agriculture customers. Locations in Hill City, Hoxie, Plainville, KS and
 Holdrege, NE, would follow. A farmer buying a bank was an innovation in
 itself, at the time, and was accomplished with much skill and 
determination.

Norman served on the boards of Rural 
Electric Association, Almena Irrigation District and served as a Norton 
County Commissioner.  He was a member of the Free Masons and Shriners.

In
 1995, Norman was involved in a chance business investment that 
converted condominiums in Titusville, FL, overlooking the Indian River 
and Cape Canaveral. On an investigative trip, he purchased two units for
 personal investment that inadvertently became the inspiration for 20+ 
years of winters in Florida where he and Gloria developed many lasting 
friendships and entertained leagues of their children, grandchildren, 
and other guests for fun in the sun. Soon, Norman bought a small citrus 
grove based on the premise that he liked fresh-squeezed orange juice and
 noticed that it was scarce in Florida, ironically.

In his 
later years, Norman purchased ranches in WaKeeney, KS, Paradise, KS, 
and, most recently, the Pyramid Ranch in Gove County, KS, which includes
 Monument Rock.

Also in their later years, Norman and 
Gloria began to focus more on making a lasting impact on the future of 
Norton, Kansas. They loved and believed in Norton and invested 
accordingly. They spearheaded the renovation of the historic Lyon House 
and Heaton Building and facilitated the construction of the 
award-winning Sleep Inn Hotel, all in Norton. They were fundamental to 
the establishment of the Norton Community Foundation. Norman could be a 
tough negotiator, but he was silently generous. There are innumerable 
times that he funded projects and emergency needs, large and small, in 
and around the community, the details of which few people will ever 
know.

Norman adored playing cards, from his teen years 
until the day the pandemic closed the doors of the Norton Senior Citizen
 Center (he played cards on iPad, alone, for a while afterward). He also
 loved fishing; western movies, music, and books; playing the stock 
market and commodities markets; growing vegetables and oranges; his 
nickname “Stormin’ Norman”; watching old westerns and sleeping in his 
easy chair; and, he was wild about his grandchildren, dancing the 
chicken dance with them among other endearing antics. He knew all his 
great children by personality even after he could no longer remember 
them by name.

Norman Nelson was a “bigger than life” person and will be greatly missed by many.

Norman
 is preceded in death by his parents; a brother-in-law Jim Vander Lugt 
and dear friends that include Floyd Fairleigh of Fairleigh Feed Yards, 
Scott City; Wayne Schnuerle of Almena; Don Stutterheim, Bob Yeager and 
Bill Sharp of Norton; Ben Boell of Holdrege; Everett McKenna of Palco 
and Bernard Griffiths of Long Island. He is survived by his wife Gloria,
 who lives with their youngest daughter, Lisa, two sisters, Lolita Jean 
Coupe (Dick) - Dallas, Texas, and Nathalee Rae VanderLugt - Edgerton, 
Minnesota. Their children Sally Nelson - Fairway, KS; N. Terry Nelson 
(Marcia) - Almena, KS; Troy Nelson (Denise) – Lewis, KS; Lisa Brooksher 
(Bruce) – Paradise, KS/Titusville, FL; Grandchildren: Clarke Nelson 
(Julia); Stanton Nelson; Kayla Burr (Dustin); Kamille Whited; James (JT)
 Whited; Bo Nelson (Erica); Carson Brooksher and 11 great grandchildren,
 a niece, four nephews, and many great friends.

A 
Celebration of Life for Norman Nelson is to be held April 22 at 11 am, 
Terry and Marcia Nelson’s home, 25998 State Hwy 383, Almena, KS. Dinner 
and fun to follow; anyone who would like to attend is welcome. 

Memorial 
contributions are appreciated to: Norton County Community Foundation, 
112 S. Kansas, Suite 308, Norton, Kansas 67654 (nortonccf.org). 
Arrangements by: Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, 
KS. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681235947840.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Norman L. Nelson died peacefully at his home in Norton, Kansas, at 
the age of 85 on April 8th, 2023. He was tended by his exceptional 
caregiver of seven years, Magda Dolotshahi of Great Bend.Norman
 was born October 29, 1937, to Stanley Swan Nelson and Leila Mae 
(Scholl) Nelson, Long Island, Kansas. His was a home birth, delivered by
 well-known Dr. Herbert S. Bennie (“Dr. Bennie”) of Almena, Kansas, at 
the Nelson family house near land homesteaded in 1884 by Norman’s 
first-generation Swedish immigrant great-grandparents, Swan and Nellie 
Nelson. Norman’s official residence remained within 21 miles of his 
birthplace for his entire lifetime and yet his life reached far.Norman
 attended Willowdale one-room country school, moving to Almena Grade 
School as a third grader and graduating from Almena Rural High School in
 1956. In high school, he was an officer in Future Farmers of America 
(FFA) and played football. Norman attended one semester at Kansas State 
University, Manhattan, Kansas, before returning home to Long Island to 
farm with his father as Nelson &amp; Son Farm.On Easter 
Sunday, April 21, 1957, Norman married Gloria Ann Van Patten, Almena, 
Kansas, daughter of Loren and Mildred Van Patten of Almena. Norman and 
Gloria’s first home was a tiny one, a mile east of his parents’ home 
outside of Long Island, Kansas. They had four children: Sally, Terry, 
Troy and Lisa. They were married almost 66 years.With a 
philosophy of dogged hard work, calculated risk-taking, business 
diversification and service, Norman, his father, his sons and their 
families built a business, over Norman’s adult lifetime, from 
approximately 500 acres and a few livestock to a multi-faceted 
agriculturally-based business that serves the family and counties 
throughout western Kansas and southwestern Nebraska with associations 
that reach much farther.Nelson Farms Inc. was an early 
farm operation to realize the necessity of legal incorporation and 
gradually diversified into multiple entities including crop production, 
grain storage, fertilizer and chemicals, livestock production, feed 
processing, banking, and energy. Norman was innovative and quietly 
instrumental in changing the marketing system for beef to encourage a 
premium product which resulted in industry-wide progress.In
 1990, First State Bank of Norton was purchased with a focus on 
agriculture customers. Locations in Hill City, Hoxie, Plainville, KS and
 Holdrege, NE, would follow. A farmer buying a bank was an innovation in
 itself, at the time, and was accomplished with much skill and 
determination.Norman served on the boards of Rural 
Electric Association, Almena Irrigation District and served as a Norton 
County Commissioner. He was a member of the Free Masons and Shriners.In
 1995, Norman was involved in a chance business investment that 
converted condominiums in Titusville, FL, overlooking the Indian River 
and Cape Canaveral. On an investigative trip, he purchased two units for
 personal investment that inadvertently became the inspiration for 20+ 
years of winters in Florida where he and Gloria developed many lasting 
friendships and entertained leagues of their children, grandchildren, 
and other guests for fun in the sun. Soon, Norman bought a small citrus 
grove based on the premise that he liked fresh-squeezed orange juice and
 noticed that it was scarce in Florida, ironically.In his 
later years, Norman purchased ranches in WaKeeney, KS, Paradise, KS, 
and, most recently, the Pyramid Ranch in Gove County, KS, which includes
 Monument Rock.Also in their later years, Norman and 
Gloria began to focus more on making a lasting impact on the future of 
Norton, Kansas. They loved and believed in Norton and invested 
accordingly. They spearheaded the renovation of the historic Lyon House 
and Heaton Building and facilitated the construction of the 
award-winning Sleep Inn Hotel, all in Norton. They were fundamental to 
the establishment of the Norton Community Foundation. Norman could be a 
tough negotiator, but he was silently generous. There are innumerable 
times that he funded projects and emergency needs, large and small, in 
and around the community, the details of which few people will ever 
know.Norman adored playing cards, from his teen years 
until the day the pandemic closed the doors of the Norton Senior Citizen
 Center (he played cards on iPad, alone, for a while afterward). He also
 loved fishing; western movies, music, and books; playing the stock 
market and commodities markets; growing vegetables and oranges; his 
nickname “Stormin’ Norman”; watching old westerns and sleeping in his 
easy chair; and, he was wild about his grandchildren, dancing the 
chicken dance with them among other endearing antics. He knew all his 
great children by personality even after he could no longer remember 
them by name.Norman Nelson was a “bigger than life” person and will be greatly missed by many.Norman
 is preceded in death by his parents; a brother-in-law Jim Vander Lugt 
and dear friends that include Floyd Fairleigh of Fairleigh Feed Yards, 
Scott City; Wayne Schnuerle of Almena; Don Stutterheim, Bob Yeager and 
Bill Sharp of Norton; Ben Boell of Holdrege; Everett McKenna of Palco 
and Bernard Griffiths of Long Island. He is survived by his wife Gloria,
 who lives with their youngest daughter, Lisa, two sisters, Lolita Jean 
Coupe (Dick) - Dallas, Texas, and Nathalee Rae VanderLugt - Edgerton, 
Minnesota. Their children Sally Nelson - Fairway, KS; N. Terry Nelson 
(Marcia) - Almena, KS; Troy Nelson (Denise) – Lewis, KS; Lisa Brooksher 
(Bruce) – Paradise, KS/Titusville, FL; Grandchildren: Clarke Nelson 
(Julia); Stanton Nelson; Kayla Burr (Dustin); Kamille Whited; James (JT)
 Whited; Bo Nelson (Erica); Carson Brooksher and 11 great grandchildren,
 a niece, four nephews, and many great friends.A 
Celebration of Life for Norman Nelson is to be held April 22 at 11 am, 
Terry and Marcia Nelson’s home, 25998 State Hwy 383, Almena, KS. Dinner 
and fun to follow; anyone who would like to attend is welcome. Memorial 
contributions are appreciated to: Norton County Community Foundation, 
112 S. Kansas, Suite 308, Norton, Kansas 67654 (nortonccf.org). 
Arrangements by: Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, 
KS. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com

Norman L. Nelson

Rosemary Walt, age 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 22, 2022.&nbsp;

Rosemary was born near Quinter, KS on August 23, 1939, to Anton and Rosalia (Giebler) Dinkel. She was the youngest of eleven children. When she was young, her family moved to a farm north of Collyer. Growing up on the farm, she learned to garden, which she still loved. Her mother taught her to crochet. She spent many hours crocheting afghans. All her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren have one to remember her by. The last few years, she crocheted several stuffed animals for her great-grandkids. She was an excellent cook. We enjoyed many delicious meals, especially during the holidays.&nbsp;

Rosemary attended school in Collyer, where she graduated salutatorian of her class in 1957. After high school, she worked at the Coop in Collyer as a bookkeeper. She married Ted Walt Jr. on October 7, 1961, at Saint Michael's Catholic Church in Collyer. They had three children, Larry, Terry, and Patty. They were lifelong residents of Collyer.&nbsp;

Ted and Rosemary opened Walt's Repair in 1963 where she worked as the secretary and bookkeeper until she retired in 1996. After her retirement, she frequently helped Ted on the farm. They also enjoyed training bird dogs. They loved traveling to competitions and controlled hunts with their dogs. For many years, Rosemary and her sister Rosalie made custom cakes ranging from small, simple cakes to large, elaborate wedding cakes.&nbsp;

Rosemary was a member of Saint Michael's Alter Society, the American Legion Auxiliary, and Gove County Medical Center Ladies Auxiliary, where she volunteered at the gift shop for several years.&nbsp;

Rosemary's greatest joy was her family. She was thrilled to have her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren living near or in Collyer. She had a unique relationship with each of us and loved us unconditionally. She especially loved having her great-grandkids come to visit.&nbsp;

Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents, husband Ted, and siblings Paul, Bertha, Leo, Beata, Marcella, Don, Rosalie, Alvin and Clarence. She is survived by her brother Bob of Quinter; her children, Larry and wife Angie, their children Blaine and wife Ryan and their children Jordi and Bowen, Derek and wife Nicole and their daughter Kendall all of Collyer; Terry and wife Laura, their children Tyler and wife Cristina and their children Cody, Taylor and Cayden, Keith and wife Merry and their children Greyson, McCoy, Lachlan and Aislinn all of Collyer, and&nbsp;Brittney of Colby; Patty Knop and husband Jeff, their children Karly Snyder and husband Adam and their daughter Rylan all of Collyer, Nikki Jansonius and husband Logan and their son Lark of Colby; and many friends and relatives.

Mass of Christian Memorial will be held at St. Michael Catholic 
Church, Collyer, KS, on Saturday, January 21, 2023, at 10:30 am. 
Visitation will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church, Collyer, KS, on 
Saturday, January 21, 2023, from 9:00 – 10:00 am.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow
 at the St. Michael Catholic Cemetery, Collyer, KS.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Gove County Medical Center 
Auxiliary Gift Shop or St. Michael Catholic Church Alter Society. 
&nbsp;Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main Street, 
Quinter, KS, 67752.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681219844582.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rosemary Walt, age 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 22, 2022.&nbsp;Rosemary was born near Quinter, KS on August 23, 1939, to Anton and Rosalia (Giebler) Dinkel. She was the youngest of eleven children. When she was young, her family moved to a farm north of Collyer. Growing up on the farm, she learned to garden, which she still loved. Her mother taught her to crochet. She spent many hours crocheting afghans. All her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren have one to remember her by. The last few years, she crocheted several stuffed animals for her great-grandkids. She was an excellent cook. We enjoyed many delicious meals, especially during the holidays.&nbsp;Rosemary attended school in Collyer, where she graduated salutatorian of her class in 1957. After high school, she worked at the Coop in Collyer as a bookkeeper. She married Ted Walt Jr. on October 7, 1961, at Saint Michael's Catholic Church in Collyer. They had three children, Larry, Terry, and Patty. They were lifelong residents of Collyer.&nbsp;Ted and Rosemary opened Walt's Repair in 1963 where she worked as the secretary and bookkeeper until she retired in 1996. After her retirement, she frequently helped Ted on the farm. They also enjoyed training bird dogs. They loved traveling to competitions and controlled hunts with their dogs. For many years, Rosemary and her sister Rosalie made custom cakes ranging from small, simple cakes to large, elaborate wedding cakes.&nbsp;Rosemary was a member of Saint Michael's Alter Society, the American Legion Auxiliary, and Gove County Medical Center Ladies Auxiliary, where she volunteered at the gift shop for several years.&nbsp;Rosemary's greatest joy was her family. She was thrilled to have her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren living near or in Collyer. She had a unique relationship with each of us and loved us unconditionally. She especially loved having her great-grandkids come to visit.&nbsp;Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents, husband Ted, and siblings Paul, Bertha, Leo, Beata, Marcella, Don, Rosalie, Alvin and Clarence. She is survived by her brother Bob of Quinter; her children, Larry and wife Angie, their children Blaine and wife Ryan and their children Jordi and Bowen, Derek and wife Nicole and their daughter Kendall all of Collyer; Terry and wife Laura, their children Tyler and wife Cristina and their children Cody, Taylor and Cayden, Keith and wife Merry and their children Greyson, McCoy, Lachlan and Aislinn all of Collyer, and&nbsp;Brittney of Colby; Patty Knop and husband Jeff, their children Karly Snyder and husband Adam and their daughter Rylan all of Collyer, Nikki Jansonius and husband Logan and their son Lark of Colby; and many friends and relatives.Mass of Christian Memorial will be held at St. Michael Catholic 
Church, Collyer, KS, on Saturday, January 21, 2023, at 10:30 am. 
Visitation will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church, Collyer, KS, on 
Saturday, January 21, 2023, from 9:00 – 10:00 am.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow
 at the St. Michael Catholic Cemetery, Collyer, KS.Memorial contributions are suggested to Gove County Medical Center 
Auxiliary Gift Shop or St. Michael Catholic Church Alter Society. 
&nbsp;Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main Street, 
Quinter, KS, 67752.

Rosemary Walt

Long<a></a>time Sharon Springs, KS resident Maynard Lester&nbsp;Giersdorf, 88, passed away Saturday, April 8th, 2023, at Greeley County Long Term Care in Tribune, KS. He was born on October 15, 1934, in Spalding, NE to Lester and Lilly (Buhlman)&nbsp;Giersdorf.

He grew up&nbsp;in Grand Island, NE where he attended school. &nbsp;As a young adult, he enjoyed racing motorcycles on dirt roads, highways, and even on railroad tracks where he won many trophies.&nbsp;

On December 19, 1968, Maynard and Frances Darlene&nbsp;Bielser&nbsp;were married in Sharon Springs, KS. Together, they raised four children, Robert, Brenda, Theresa, and Clarissa. They were active members at The Elk’s in Goodland, KS and shared many excursions and travel adventures with their children.

Maynard was very passionate about agriculture and people. He was a well-known fertilizer salesman for over 50 years where he had many loyal customers. He also enjoyed raising cattle, hogs, and his own wheat crop. When he wasn’t working, a few of his favorite pastimes were hunting, camping, boating, and spending time with his grandkids.&nbsp;

Preceding him in death is his wife, Darlene on April 13, 2007, his parents, and his sister Laura.

Surviving family members include Robert (Susan)&nbsp;Bielser&nbsp;of Cape Coral, FL, Brenda&nbsp;Stricker&nbsp;of Grand Island, NE,&nbsp;Theresa (Ronnie) Hill of Sharon Springs, KS, and Clarissa (Justin)&nbsp;Kriegh&nbsp;of Sharon Springs, KS.&nbsp;He is also survived by&nbsp;9 grandkids and 13 great-grandkids.

Visitation will be Tuesday, April 11, 2023, from 5:00&nbsp;to 7:00&nbsp;PM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Sharon Springs, KS.&nbsp;

Funeral service will be Wednesday, April 12, at 10:30 AM MT at Gateway to Grace Church in Sharon Springs, KS. Interment&nbsp;will&nbsp;follow at&nbsp;the&nbsp;Sharon Springs Cemetery.

Memorials have been designated to the Wallace County Foundation and may be left at the services or mailed to&nbsp;Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N Main, Goodland, KS 67735.

Online condolences to the family may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.

Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Sharon Springs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681218094170.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Long<a></a>time Sharon Springs, KS resident Maynard Lester&nbsp;Giersdorf, 88, passed away Saturday, April 8th, 2023, at Greeley County Long Term Care in Tribune, KS. He was born on October 15, 1934, in Spalding, NE to Lester and Lilly (Buhlman)&nbsp;Giersdorf.He grew up&nbsp;in Grand Island, NE where he attended school. &nbsp;As a young adult, he enjoyed racing motorcycles on dirt roads, highways, and even on railroad tracks where he won many trophies.&nbsp;On December 19, 1968, Maynard and Frances Darlene&nbsp;Bielser&nbsp;were married in Sharon Springs, KS. Together, they raised four children, Robert, Brenda, Theresa, and Clarissa. They were active members at The Elk’s in Goodland, KS and shared many excursions and travel adventures with their children.Maynard was very passionate about agriculture and people. He was a well-known fertilizer salesman for over 50 years where he had many loyal customers. He also enjoyed raising cattle, hogs, and his own wheat crop. When he wasn’t working, a few of his favorite pastimes were hunting, camping, boating, and spending time with his grandkids.&nbsp;Preceding him in death is his wife, Darlene on April 13, 2007, his parents, and his sister Laura.Surviving family members include Robert (Susan)&nbsp;Bielser&nbsp;of Cape Coral, FL, Brenda&nbsp;Stricker&nbsp;of Grand Island, NE,&nbsp;Theresa (Ronnie) Hill of Sharon Springs, KS, and Clarissa (Justin)&nbsp;Kriegh&nbsp;of Sharon Springs, KS.&nbsp;He is also survived by&nbsp;9 grandkids and 13 great-grandkids.Visitation will be Tuesday, April 11, 2023, from 5:00&nbsp;to 7:00&nbsp;PM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Sharon Springs, KS.&nbsp;Funeral service will be Wednesday, April 12, at 10:30 AM MT at Gateway to Grace Church in Sharon Springs, KS. Interment&nbsp;will&nbsp;follow at&nbsp;the&nbsp;Sharon Springs Cemetery.Memorials have been designated to the Wallace County Foundation and may be left at the services or mailed to&nbsp;Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N Main, Goodland, KS 67735.Online condolences to the family may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Sharon Springs.

Maynard Lester Giersdorf

KANSAS CITY—A&nbsp; jury convicted a Kansas City man of the murder of Donald Moore in October 2022 near 12th and Grand in Downtown KC, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

The jury convicted Toney Lamong Powell, 22, of Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action.

According to court records, Kansas City police officers were dispatched to 12th and Grand in Downtown Kansas City on a reported shooting. They found the victim, 22-year-old Donald Moore.

 He suffered what appeared to be a gunshot to the abdomen. Witnesses said the victim and Powell&nbsp; were once friends until the suspect accused the victim of “ratting” on him to police in a different shooting investigation. 

Detectives found surveillance video that showed the suspect in the area and a witness, the victim's mother, told detectives her son contacted her and told her who shot him.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorneys Jeannette Wolpink and Eric Honea prosecuted the case on behalf of the state of Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680864381274.png" alt="Powell-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Powell-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—A&nbsp; jury convicted a Kansas City man of the murder of Donald Moore in October 2022 near 12th and Grand in Downtown KC, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.The jury convicted Toney Lamong Powell, 22, of Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action.According to court records, Kansas City police officers were dispatched to 12th and Grand in Downtown Kansas City on a reported shooting. They found the victim, 22-year-old Donald Moore. He suffered what appeared to be a gunshot to the abdomen. Witnesses said the victim and Powell&nbsp; were once friends until the suspect accused the victim of “ratting” on him to police in a different shooting investigation. Detectives found surveillance video that showed the suspect in the area and a witness, the victim's mother, told detectives her son contacted her and told her who shot him.Assistant Prosecuting Attorneys Jeannette Wolpink and Eric Honea prosecuted the case on behalf of the state of Missouri.

KC man killed friend for allegedly 'ratting' on him to police

Dennis Lynn Fixsen, age 78, passed away Tuesday, March 28, 2023, in 
Nixa, MO.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was born October 22, 1944, in Goodland, KS to Fred and 
Bertha (Darnhauer) Fixsen.&nbsp;&nbsp;He attended Goodland Public School before 
graduating from Goodland High School in the class of 1962.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following 
high school graduation, he attended and graduated from Fort Hays State 
University with a BA in Business Management.

Dennis was drafted into the Army and sent to Fort Ord, CA for Basic 
Training in April of 1969.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following basic training he was sent to Fort
 Rucker, AL for&nbsp;Aircraft Maintenance&nbsp;training.&nbsp;&nbsp;In June of 1970 he was 
then sent to Vietnam and stationed in An Khe and Saigon with the 4th&nbsp;Infantry Division and was later transferred to the 101st&nbsp;Airborne
 Division before being sent home in January of 1971.&nbsp;&nbsp;During his time of
 service, he earned an Army Commendation Medal and was a Lifetime Member
 of the VFW.<a></a>

Dennis worked in banking and finance his entire life for companies in
 Kansas, Colorado, California and Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp;He enjoyed history and 
automobiles, and was exceptionally fond of the several Corvettes that he
 owned and took meticulous care of.

He is proceeded in death by his parents Fred and Bertha Fixsen, two 
brothers Gayle Fixsen, William Fixsen, and a sister Jeri Schmid.

He is survived by his former wife, Michelle Gabel of Nixa, MO and 
their two sons, Jason (Christie) Fixsen and granddaughter Jaycee of 
Nixa, MO and Josh (Elizabeth) Fixsen and grandson Ethan of Beloit, KS; 
one sister, Marilyn (James) Lohay of Prescott, AZ; and two brothers, 
Richard Fixsen of Highland, CA, and Dr. Dean (Karen) Fixsen of Chapel 
Hill, NC; and many nieces and nephews.

Following cremation, the family will host a
 celebration of life service to be held Thirsty’s Bar &amp; Grill 
in&nbsp;Hays, KS on May 5th&nbsp;from 5pm-8pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html" target="_blank">https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html</a>

Cremation rites have been accorded by Adams Crematory. &nbsp;Arrangements are under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681163000519.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dennis Lynn Fixsen, age 78, passed away Tuesday, March 28, 2023, in 
Nixa, MO.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was born October 22, 1944, in Goodland, KS to Fred and 
Bertha (Darnhauer) Fixsen.&nbsp;&nbsp;He attended Goodland Public School before 
graduating from Goodland High School in the class of 1962.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following 
high school graduation, he attended and graduated from Fort Hays State 
University with a BA in Business Management.Dennis was drafted into the Army and sent to Fort Ord, CA for Basic 
Training in April of 1969.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following basic training he was sent to Fort
 Rucker, AL for&nbsp;Aircraft Maintenance&nbsp;training.&nbsp;&nbsp;In June of 1970 he was 
then sent to Vietnam and stationed in An Khe and Saigon with the 4th&nbsp;Infantry Division and was later transferred to the 101st&nbsp;Airborne
 Division before being sent home in January of 1971.&nbsp;&nbsp;During his time of
 service, he earned an Army Commendation Medal and was a Lifetime Member
 of the VFW.<a></a>Dennis worked in banking and finance his entire life for companies in
 Kansas, Colorado, California and Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp;He enjoyed history and 
automobiles, and was exceptionally fond of the several Corvettes that he
 owned and took meticulous care of.He is proceeded in death by his parents Fred and Bertha Fixsen, two 
brothers Gayle Fixsen, William Fixsen, and a sister Jeri Schmid.He is survived by his former wife, Michelle Gabel of Nixa, MO and 
their two sons, Jason (Christie) Fixsen and granddaughter Jaycee of 
Nixa, MO and Josh (Elizabeth) Fixsen and grandson Ethan of Beloit, KS; 
one sister, Marilyn (James) Lohay of Prescott, AZ; and two brothers, 
Richard Fixsen of Highland, CA, and Dr. Dean (Karen) Fixsen of Chapel 
Hill, NC; and many nieces and nephews.Following cremation, the family will host a
 celebration of life service to be held Thirsty’s Bar &amp; Grill 
in&nbsp;Hays, KS on May 5th&nbsp;from 5pm-8pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html" target="_blank">https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html</a>Cremation rites have been accorded by Adams Crematory. &nbsp;Arrangements are under direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa.

Dennis Lynn Fixsen

SALINA —Grammy Award-winning rockstar Melissa Etheridge is bringing her North American tour to Salina in June.

The Kansas native is scheduled to perform at 7:30 p.m. June 29 in downtown Salina's Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

Tickets start at $59 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday. Buy online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. The Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

About Melissa Etheridge courtesy Stiefel Theatre

Melissa Etheridge stormed onto the American rock scene in 1988 with the release of her critically acclaimed self-titled debut album, which led to an appearance on the 1989 Grammy Awards show. For several years, her popularity grew around such memorable originals as&nbsp;Bring Me Some Water,&nbsp;No Souvenirs,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ain't It Heavy, for which she won a Grammy® in 1992.

Etheridge hit her commercial and artistic stride with her fourth album,&nbsp;Yes I Am&nbsp;(1993). The collection featured the massive hits,&nbsp;I'm the Only One&nbsp;and&nbsp;Come to My Window, a searing song of longing that brought Etheridge her second Grammy® Award for Best Female Rock Performance. In 1995, Etheridge issued her highest-charting album,&nbsp;Your Little Secret, which was distinguished by the hit single,&nbsp;I Want to Come Over. Her astounding success that year led to Etheridge receiving the Songwriter of the Year honor at the ASCAP Pop Awards in 1996.

Known for her confessional lyrics and raspy, smoky vocals, Etheridge has remained one of America’s favorite female singer-songwriters for more than two decades. Since her notable rise to fame, Etheridge has continued to release several critically acclaimed recordings including,&nbsp;This Is M.E.,&nbsp;Memphis Rock &amp; Soul, and&nbsp;The Medicine Show. On Sept. 17, 2021, Etheridge released her most recent studio project, titled&nbsp;One Way Out. The nine-track album is a collection of songs Etheridge wrote in the late '80s and early '90s that never made the cut...until now! The time is finally right, and fans will finally get a deeper glimpse to who Etheridge was then.

October 2022 saw Etheridge’s return to the theatre with her one-woman show,&nbsp;My Window – A Journey Through Life. The critically acclaimed, sold-out run premiered at New World Stages on Oct. 13, 2022, and has plans to move to Broadway in 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681155732593.jpeg" alt="Melissa Etheridge is scheduled to perform in Salina's Stiefel Theatre on June 29.&nbsp; Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Melissa Etheridge is scheduled to perform in Salina's Stiefel Theatre on June 29.&nbsp; Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA —Grammy Award-winning rockstar Melissa Etheridge is bringing her North American tour to Salina in June.The Kansas native is scheduled to perform at 7:30 p.m. June 29 in downtown Salina's Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.Tickets start at $59 and go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday. Buy online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. The Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.About Melissa Etheridge courtesy Stiefel TheatreMelissa Etheridge stormed onto the American rock scene in 1988 with the release of her critically acclaimed self-titled debut album, which led to an appearance on the 1989 Grammy Awards show. For several years, her popularity grew around such memorable originals as&nbsp;Bring Me Some Water,&nbsp;No Souvenirs,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ain't It Heavy, for which she won a Grammy® in 1992.Etheridge hit her commercial and artistic stride with her fourth album,&nbsp;Yes I Am&nbsp;(1993). The collection featured the massive hits,&nbsp;I'm the Only One&nbsp;and&nbsp;Come to My Window, a searing song of longing that brought Etheridge her second Grammy® Award for Best Female Rock Performance. In 1995, Etheridge issued her highest-charting album,&nbsp;Your Little Secret, which was distinguished by the hit single,&nbsp;I Want to Come Over. Her astounding success that year led to Etheridge receiving the Songwriter of the Year honor at the ASCAP Pop Awards in 1996.Known for her confessional lyrics and raspy, smoky vocals, Etheridge has remained one of America’s favorite female singer-songwriters for more than two decades. Since her notable rise to fame, Etheridge has continued to release several critically acclaimed recordings including,&nbsp;This Is M.E.,&nbsp;Memphis Rock &amp; Soul, and&nbsp;The Medicine Show. On Sept. 17, 2021, Etheridge released her most recent studio project, titled&nbsp;One Way Out. The nine-track album is a collection of songs Etheridge wrote in the late '80s and early '90s that never made the cut...until now! The time is finally right, and fans will finally get a deeper glimpse to who Etheridge was then.October 2022 saw Etheridge’s return to the theatre with her one-woman show,&nbsp;My Window – A Journey Through Life. The critically acclaimed, sold-out run premiered at New World Stages on Oct. 13, 2022, and has plans to move to Broadway in 2023.

Melissa Etheridge to perform in Salina in June

Rick Jones, 60, died on Friday, April 7, 2023, at St Catherine Hospital 
in Garden City. He was born on November 28, 1962, in Garden City the son
 of Jim &amp; Janet (Rice) Jones. He married Jeanna Snodgrass on 
October 10, 1985, in Garden City. 
Rick graduated from Garden City High School. He attended Arts School in 
Colorado Springs. After his schooling he returned to Garden City to 
work at Lee Richardson Zoo. He moved to Scott City and worked as a 
Mechanic and later at Weichman Feedyard. In 2002, he had a conversion in
 life and started being mentored by Pastor Bruce Ferguson at the Healy 
United Methodist Church and began lay speaking at churches. He 
graduated Seminary with his degree in Theology and was ordained a United
 Methodist minister. He served churches in Grainfield, Gove, Bucklin, 
Hebron, Nebraska, and Chester, Nebraska, before moving back to Garden City 
in 2019. He loved his Harley motorcycle and was a life member of ABATE 
of Kansas and a Patriot Rider. He also was the Chaplain and member of 
the Eagles Lodge in Garden City. 
He is survived by his 2 Daughters- Kirsten Mieth-Overton and husband 
Brandon of Wichita and Candice Jones of Newton, North Carolina, Father- 
Jim Jones of Garden City, Brother- Jeff Jones of Scott City, Fiancé 
-Sharyn Baybayan of Chester, Nebraska and 3 Grandchildren- Adrienne 
Mieth-Overton, Henry Mieth-Overton and Annie Mieth-Overton all of 
Wichita. He was preceded in death by his Mother. 
Funeral Service will be at 10:30 AM Wednesday at Garnand Funeral Home in
 Garden City with Pastor John Carney officiating. Burial will be in 
Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Friends may call from 9:00 AM to 
8:00 PM Tuesday at Garnand Funeral Home.

 Memorials are suggested to 
Rick Jones Memorial Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home.  Condolences 
may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681142194267.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rick Jones, 60, died on Friday, April 7, 2023, at St Catherine Hospital 
in Garden City. He was born on November 28, 1962, in Garden City the son
 of Jim &amp; Janet (Rice) Jones. He married Jeanna Snodgrass on 
October 10, 1985, in Garden City. 
Rick graduated from Garden City High School. He attended Arts School in 
Colorado Springs. After his schooling he returned to Garden City to 
work at Lee Richardson Zoo. He moved to Scott City and worked as a 
Mechanic and later at Weichman Feedyard. In 2002, he had a conversion in
 life and started being mentored by Pastor Bruce Ferguson at the Healy 
United Methodist Church and began lay speaking at churches. He 
graduated Seminary with his degree in Theology and was ordained a United
 Methodist minister. He served churches in Grainfield, Gove, Bucklin, 
Hebron, Nebraska, and Chester, Nebraska, before moving back to Garden City 
in 2019. He loved his Harley motorcycle and was a life member of ABATE 
of Kansas and a Patriot Rider. He also was the Chaplain and member of 
the Eagles Lodge in Garden City. 
He is survived by his 2 Daughters- Kirsten Mieth-Overton and husband 
Brandon of Wichita and Candice Jones of Newton, North Carolina, Father- 
Jim Jones of Garden City, Brother- Jeff Jones of Scott City, Fiancé 
-Sharyn Baybayan of Chester, Nebraska and 3 Grandchildren- Adrienne 
Mieth-Overton, Henry Mieth-Overton and Annie Mieth-Overton all of 
Wichita. He was preceded in death by his Mother. 
Funeral Service will be at 10:30 AM Wednesday at Garnand Funeral Home in
 Garden City with Pastor John Carney officiating. Burial will be in 
Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Friends may call from 9:00 AM to 
8:00 PM Tuesday at Garnand Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to 
Rick Jones Memorial Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home. Condolences 
may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com&nbsp; &nbsp;

Rick Jones

An obituary is pending with Koons-Russell Funeral Home.

Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Maynard-Giersdorf">HERE</a> for service details.

October 15, 1934 ~ April 8, 2023An obituary is pending with Koons-Russell Funeral Home.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Maynard-Giersdorf">HERE</a> for service details.

Maynard L. Giersdorf

WASHINGTON&nbsp;&nbsp;– A Kansas sailor who died during the attack on Pearl Harbor more than 80 years ago has finally been identified and will finally be laid to rest.

On Thursday, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) confirmed that Navy Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Cecil E. Barncord, 24, Topeka, Kansas,&nbsp;killed during World War II, was accounted for on Oct. 14, 2016.

On Dec. 7, 1941, Barncord was assigned to the battleship USS&nbsp;Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft. The USS&nbsp;Oklahoma&nbsp;sustained multiple torpedo hits, which caused it to quickly capsize. The attack on the ship resulted in the deaths of 429 crewmen, including Barncord.&nbsp;

From December 1941 to June 1944, Navy personnel recovered the remains of the deceased crew, which were subsequently interred in the Halawa and Nu’uanu Cemeteries.

In September 1947, tasked with recovering and identifying fallen U.S. personnel in the Pacific Theater, members of the American Graves Registration Service (AGRS) disinterred the remains of U.S. casualties from the two cemeteries and transferred them to the Central Identification Laboratory at Schofield Barracks. The laboratory staff was only able to confirm the identifications of 35 men from the USS&nbsp;Oklahoma&nbsp;at that time. The AGRS subsequently buried the unidentified remains in 46 plots at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (NMCP), known as the Punchbowl, in Honolulu. In October 1949, a military board classified those who could not be identified as non-recoverable, including Barncord.

Between June and November 2015, DPAA personnel exhumed the USS&nbsp;Oklahoma&nbsp;Unknowns from the Punchbowl for analysis.

To identify Barncord’s remains, scientists from DPAA used dental and anthropological analysis. Additionally, scientists from the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Research-and-Innovation/Armed-Forces-Medical-Examiner-System/DoD-DNA-Registry" target="_blank">Armed Forces Medical Examiner System</a>&nbsp;used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis.

Barncord’s&nbsp;name is recorded on the Courts of the Missing at the Punchbowl, along with the others who are missing from WWII. A rosette will be placed next to his name to indicate he has been accounted for.

Barncord will be buried on date yet to be determined in Mossy Rock, Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680802546770.png" alt="Barncord-photo courtesy Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency" />
 <figcaption>Barncord-photo courtesy Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;&nbsp;– A Kansas sailor who died during the attack on Pearl Harbor more than 80 years ago has finally been identified and will finally be laid to rest.On Thursday, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) confirmed that Navy Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Cecil E. Barncord, 24, Topeka, Kansas,&nbsp;killed during World War II, was accounted for on Oct. 14, 2016.On Dec. 7, 1941, Barncord was assigned to the battleship USS&nbsp;Oklahoma, which was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft. The USS&nbsp;Oklahoma&nbsp;sustained multiple torpedo hits, which caused it to quickly capsize. The attack on the ship resulted in the deaths of 429 crewmen, including Barncord.&nbsp;From December 1941 to June 1944, Navy personnel recovered the remains of the deceased crew, which were subsequently interred in the Halawa and Nu’uanu Cemeteries.In September 1947, tasked with recovering and identifying fallen U.S. personnel in the Pacific Theater, members of the American Graves Registration Service (AGRS) disinterred the remains of U.S. casualties from the two cemeteries and transferred them to the Central Identification Laboratory at Schofield Barracks. The laboratory staff was only able to confirm the identifications of 35 men from the USS&nbsp;Oklahoma&nbsp;at that time. The AGRS subsequently buried the unidentified remains in 46 plots at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (NMCP), known as the Punchbowl, in Honolulu. In October 1949, a military board classified those who could not be identified as non-recoverable, including Barncord.Between June and November 2015, DPAA personnel exhumed the USS&nbsp;Oklahoma&nbsp;Unknowns from the Punchbowl for analysis.To identify Barncord’s remains, scientists from DPAA used dental and anthropological analysis. Additionally, scientists from the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Research-and-Innovation/Armed-Forces-Medical-Examiner-System/DoD-DNA-Registry" target="_blank">Armed Forces Medical Examiner System</a>&nbsp;used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis.Barncord’s&nbsp;name is recorded on the Courts of the Missing at the Punchbowl, along with the others who are missing from WWII. A rosette will be placed next to his name to indicate he has been accounted for.Barncord will be buried on date yet to be determined in Mossy Rock, Washington.

Kansas sailor who died  at Pearl Harbor to be laid to rest

Michael C. Hertel, age 71, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at home. He was born September 1, 1951, in Hays to Henry and Marie (Romey) Hertel.&nbsp; Michael graduated from Hays High School in 1969 and attended &nbsp;Fort Hays State University. On October 29, 1982, he married Terri Young in Hays. Michael worked at Hays Auto Parts for 42 years, serving as the parts manager. He was a collector of many things, primarily pedal cars. With his work he was able to visit with customers and was in the know about cars and those available, which allowed him to enjoy his car collection as well.&nbsp; Michael is survived by his wife, Terri of the home; two sons, Brad Sarver(Danny) of WaKeeney, and Scott Hertel (Angela) of Dallas, Texas; a daughter, Tina Sarver (Samuel Jordan) of Hays; three brothers, Bob Hertel of Las Vegas, Tommy Hertel of Table Rock, Missouri and Jeff Hertel of Ellis, Kansas; two sisters, Mary Hertel of Wichita and Jeanie Pfeifer of Pratt; five grandchildren, Ravyn, Ayden, Kenzie, D.J. and Brinklee as well as five great grandchildren, Thackery, Jayce, Adelynn, Rayne and Hazel. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Monday, April 10, 2023, at Celebration Community Church, 5790 230th Ave, Hays, KS 67601. Visitation will be Monday 10:00 AM until service time at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to Celebration Community Church to be used for the Baptistry Fund. Condolences may be left on Michael's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>. Arrangements in care of Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680967011927.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Michael C. Hertel, age 71, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at home. He was born September 1, 1951, in Hays to Henry and Marie (Romey) Hertel.&nbsp; Michael graduated from Hays High School in 1969 and attended &nbsp;Fort Hays State University. On October 29, 1982, he married Terri Young in Hays. Michael worked at Hays Auto Parts for 42 years, serving as the parts manager. He was a collector of many things, primarily pedal cars. With his work he was able to visit with customers and was in the know about cars and those available, which allowed him to enjoy his car collection as well.&nbsp; Michael is survived by his wife, Terri of the home; two sons, Brad Sarver(Danny) of WaKeeney, and Scott Hertel (Angela) of Dallas, Texas; a daughter, Tina Sarver (Samuel Jordan) of Hays; three brothers, Bob Hertel of Las Vegas, Tommy Hertel of Table Rock, Missouri and Jeff Hertel of Ellis, Kansas; two sisters, Mary Hertel of Wichita and Jeanie Pfeifer of Pratt; five grandchildren, Ravyn, Ayden, Kenzie, D.J. and Brinklee as well as five great grandchildren, Thackery, Jayce, Adelynn, Rayne and Hazel. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Monday, April 10, 2023, at Celebration Community Church, 5790 230th Ave, Hays, KS 67601. Visitation will be Monday 10:00 AM until service time at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to Celebration Community Church to be used for the Baptistry Fund. Condolences may be left on Michael's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>. Arrangements in care of Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601.

Michael C. Hertel

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Maintaining his defense to the very end that he was drugged, raped, and shot at, Kyle V. Hardwick was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences for the murders of Marion Edward “Ed” Bates, 56, and Phillip “Phil” D. Anstine, 58, both of Hutchinson, on April 7.&nbsp;

Kyle V. Hardwick was represented by Scott Loftis, an attorney from Ponca City, Oklahoma. Hardwick pled not guilty through the entire trial. &nbsp;

Two counts of intentional and premeditated murder in the first degree. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

One count of theft of property or services, valued at $1,500 to $25,000, and an alternating count of theft of property or services of a firearm with a value less than $25,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

One count of solicitation perjury; testify to material fact in felony proceeding.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Aug. 27, 2021 Reno County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to 1016 N. Palomino Trail in Reno County based on information they received&nbsp;regarding the owners of that property. &nbsp;

When they arrived at the scene, deputies spoke to three witnesses present at the property who were concerned because they had been unable to contact Ed Bates or Phil Anstine since the evening of Aug. 25, 2021. &nbsp;

A search of the property followed.&nbsp;They eventually discovered a body in a shallow and mostly dry pond on the property that had been covered by tree branches. A further check of the property resulted in the discovery of the badly burned and charred remains of a second body in a burn pit that had been covered by a pallet and metal sheeting.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;search warrant for the property, called “the compound,” was obtained and then executed on August 28, 2021. &nbsp;

Both bodies were recovered. Along with the charred body in the burn pit, other items such as the remains of a shotgun barrel were recovered. &nbsp;

Forensic investigation conducted by Dr. Scott Kipper with the Sedgwick County Forensic Center and Reno County District Attorney’s Office determined the bodies to be of Ed Bates and Phil Anstine. &nbsp;

Autopsies determined they were killed by a shotgun, and the manner of death was determined to be homicide.&nbsp;

Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of Kyle V. Hardwick on Sept. 1 in Maize, Kansas near a Dollar General where he had made purchases. Formal charges of premeditated intentional murder of each victim and two alternative counts of theft were filed in Reno County District Court by the Reno County District Attorney’s Office. &nbsp;

A count of solicitation to commit perjury was added to the complaint after a May 19, 2022, telephone conversation during which it was alleged that the defendant attempted to solicit perjury from a witness, identified as a woman intimately known to him as Sherry Reed. &nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/03e0722b-52f8-4b48-9a71-cca42becd55a" target="_blank">A jury trial commenced on the complaint on Jan. 24, 2023</a>. &nbsp;

The Reno County District Attorney’s Office called approximately 60 witnesses and submitted more than 130 exhibits during the trial which lasted about two weeks. &nbsp;

The defendant, Hardwick, claimed at trial that he had killed Ed Bates and Phil Anstine in self-defense.&nbsp;

Described by the state in their opening statement, the "compound" is a property east of Hutchinson, where Ed&nbsp;Bates and Phil Anstine would frequent. It had various other additions like buildings built on it, a camper, a dried-up pond, and burn pits. The two men would hang out there, shoot firearms, and overall hone their survival techniques. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Of the two male victims, Hardwick knew Phil Anstine.&nbsp;

Hardwick did not know Marion Bates, but had a prior association with Phil Anstine through work that included building houses, akin to Habitat for Humanity. Anstine was said to have overseen much of the work, while Hardwick assisted with installation. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick called Anstine a friend and they were said to have a mutual interest in firearms. They were said to be close enough that they would travel to visit each other from time to time, but not frequently. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick’s last visit to see Anstine was said to be because of personal problems in his life. He wanted get out of Kansas City for a while. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick was said to have taken a Greyhound bus from Kansas City, Missouri to Hutchinson, Kansas to visit Anstine.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Loftis told the jury that Anstine had dropped off Hardwick at the compound with a set of keys. Hardwick was said to have permission to drive Anstine’s truck and had those keys as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anstine then returned shortly after with Little Caesar’s pizza and Samuel Adams beer. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick’s defense by his attorney and by his own testimony, said he began to feel strange or ill after consuming some of the beer and the pizza.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick’s symptoms were described as&nbsp;stomach pains, light-headedness, and disorientation. Hardwick was said to have voiced his sudden illness to Anstine, and then went to the camper on the property where he passed out. Hardwick was said to not remember passing out in the camper. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick alleged he woke up the next day, still disoriented, face down on a bed in the camper with his pants down, and a pain in his anus.&nbsp;

He said he&nbsp;surmised he was raped.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Upon leaving the camper to search for Anstine out of concern, Hardwick returned to the camper. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anstine is said to have returned to the compound with a shotgun in his hands. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick said he&nbsp;tried to tell Anstine of his situation, but became suspicious when Anstine was said to have been dismissive. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

When Hardwick then accused Anstine of raping him, Anstine cocked and aimed his shotgun at Hardwick.&nbsp;

Hardwick said he wrestled the shotgun out of Anstine’s hands. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anstine was said to have then pulled a .380 semiautomatic pistol and pointed it at Hardwick, causing Hardwick to fatally shoot him with the shotgun. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Still disoriented from the prior drugging and rape, the defense said that Hardwick then made his way to the pumphouse, north of the camper, for water. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Loftis described to the jury what happened next as, “one of the real tragedies of this case.” &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Another man, unknown to Hardwick, appeared and shot at Hardwick. Hardwick shot back with the shotgun he had taken from Anstine, striking the second man. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a while, determining the man is dead, Hardwick approached the body and searched the man and discovered his identity as Ed&nbsp;Bates. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Loftis said, more than likely Bates was not part of Hardwick’s alleged rape, and only came to aid his friend, Anstine. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The state, consisting of District Attorney (DA) Thomas Stanton and Deputy District Attorney Andrew Davidson, called a number of witnesses, including friends of the victims, forensic analysts with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), and Sherry Reed herself, who corroborated the state’s opening statement that accused Hardwick of killing the pair for different reasons. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The KBI’s testimony mostly addressed the recovery and forensic testing of a red&nbsp;truck, which belonged to Phil Anstine, which was found at Pretty Prairie Road and Victory Road in October 2021. &nbsp;

Hardwick’s DNA was found on multiple places on the truck as well as on items of evidence found in the truck. &nbsp;

Sherry Reed was the key witness of the trial, having turned in numerous evidence to the Reno County Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;

During his testimony, Chase Mattingly, the boyfriend of Sherry Reed’s daughter, said he had overheard part of a phone conversation between Hardwick and Reed on Aug. 31,&nbsp;2021. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He only understood part of the conversation, and said he had heard Hardwick tell Reed he had messed up. &nbsp;&nbsp;

During cross-examination by the defense, Mattingly said he did not know what Hardwick was referring to at the time. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick’s&nbsp;additional count of solicitation to commit perjury stems from&nbsp;a FaceTime call between the defendant and Reed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The FaceTime call had been played in court prior when Hardwick was bound over in June 2022, and was played again on Jan. 27. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the recorded FaceTime conversation, Hardwick repeatedly tells Reed not to show up for the hearing and, if she did testify, to tell the court she was mentally unstable and on drugs. At one time he said, “Please don’t come,” and repeatedly said, “you don’t have to show up.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick was also noted as telling Reed to “just tell the truth.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick is also quoted to have said that “Phil was a friend and he dropped like a martyr.”&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Reed grew to become inconsistent with her testimony, claiming to not remember things she said even when her prior testimonies were presented to her. &nbsp;

Brought up during the case, Hardwick was said to have told Reed he would have to kill his mother. &nbsp;

During his own testimony when cross-examined, Hardwick would also prove inconsistent and become frustrated to the point he would accuse the state of “putting words in his mouth.” &nbsp;

Hardwick also told the jury he had thoughts of suicide when he arrived to Hutchinson. &nbsp;

The presentation of evidence concluded on Feb. 1. &nbsp;

It was determined that Hardwick was stealing various guns, ammunition, and other items when Ed Bates caught him, prompting Hardwick to shoot him and move his body. &nbsp;

Phil Anstine later discovered Hardwick and was killed in an execution style in the burn pit. &nbsp;

Closing statements were made to the jury, and the jury began its deliberations,&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/4ab76543-081a-4c03-b2e4-be61806d0e55" target="_blank">reaching one the morning of Feb. 2 at 10:45 a.m.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The jury delivered a verdict of guilty in the case of the State of Kansas v. Kyle V. Hardwick. &nbsp;

Hardwick was convicted of two counts of intentional and premeditated murder in the first degree and one count of theft of property or services, valued at $1,500 to $25,000, along with one count of theft of property or services of a firearm with a value less than $25,000 and a count of solicitation of perjury; testify to material fact in felony proceeding.&nbsp; &nbsp;

During sentencing, two months later, the family and friends of Marion Edward “Ed” Bates and Phillip “Phil” D. Anstine delivered statements to Hardwick. &nbsp;

They informed how Hardwick’s actions had impacted their lives. Many of them implored the court to hand down the maximum punishment. &nbsp;

In the State of Kansas, the burden of proof on the prosecution is extremely high in murder cases and if there is an element of doubt in a defendant’s&nbsp;guilt, a jury will not be able to reach conviction. &nbsp;

Judge Keith Schroeder reminded the jury and the gallery of this throughout the case. &nbsp;

When sentencing Hardwick, Judge Schroeder made note of the lack of sympathy from Hardwick for his actions, and that he would return in kind. &nbsp;

Stipulated with Hardwick’s life convictions, he will not receive good time credit. Additionally, he will be required to register as a violent offender. &nbsp;

Concurrent with his life convictions, Hardwick will serve eight months for his third alternative count of theft and seven months for solicitation of perjury. &nbsp;

“The Bates family is very satisfied with the outcome,” Ken Bates, brother of Ed Bates, said. “Justice is served.” &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630599777911.png" alt="Hardwick-photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Hardwick-photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JUDD WEIL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Maintaining his defense to the very end that he was drugged, raped, and shot at, Kyle V. Hardwick was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences for the murders of Marion Edward “Ed” Bates, 56, and Phillip “Phil” D. Anstine, 58, both of Hutchinson, on April 7.&nbsp;Kyle V. Hardwick was represented by Scott Loftis, an attorney from Ponca City, Oklahoma. Hardwick pled not guilty through the entire trial. &nbsp;He was initially charged with:&nbsp;Two counts of intentional and premeditated murder in the first degree. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;One count of theft of property or services, valued at $1,500 to $25,000, and an alternating count of theft of property or services of a firearm with a value less than $25,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;One count of solicitation perjury; testify to material fact in felony proceeding.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On Aug. 27, 2021 Reno County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to 1016 N. Palomino Trail in Reno County based on information they received&nbsp;regarding the owners of that property. &nbsp;When they arrived at the scene, deputies spoke to three witnesses present at the property who were concerned because they had been unable to contact Ed Bates or Phil Anstine since the evening of Aug. 25, 2021. &nbsp;A search of the property followed.&nbsp;They eventually discovered a body in a shallow and mostly dry pond on the property that had been covered by tree branches. A further check of the property resulted in the discovery of the badly burned and charred remains of a second body in a burn pit that had been covered by a pallet and metal sheeting.&nbsp;A&nbsp;search warrant for the property, called “the compound,” was obtained and then executed on August 28, 2021. &nbsp;Both bodies were recovered. Along with the charred body in the burn pit, other items such as the remains of a shotgun barrel were recovered. &nbsp;Forensic investigation conducted by Dr. Scott Kipper with the Sedgwick County Forensic Center and Reno County District Attorney’s Office determined the bodies to be of Ed Bates and Phil Anstine. &nbsp;Autopsies determined they were killed by a shotgun, and the manner of death was determined to be homicide.&nbsp;Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of Kyle V. Hardwick on Sept. 1 in Maize, Kansas near a Dollar General where he had made purchases. Formal charges of premeditated intentional murder of each victim and two alternative counts of theft were filed in Reno County District Court by the Reno County District Attorney’s Office. &nbsp;A count of solicitation to commit perjury was added to the complaint after a May 19, 2022, telephone conversation during which it was alleged that the defendant attempted to solicit perjury from a witness, identified as a woman intimately known to him as Sherry Reed. &nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/03e0722b-52f8-4b48-9a71-cca42becd55a" target="_blank">A jury trial commenced on the complaint on Jan. 24, 2023</a>. &nbsp;The Reno County District Attorney’s Office called approximately 60 witnesses and submitted more than 130 exhibits during the trial which lasted about two weeks. &nbsp;The defendant, Hardwick, claimed at trial that he had killed Ed Bates and Phil Anstine in self-defense.&nbsp;Described by the state in their opening statement, the "compound" is a property east of Hutchinson, where Ed&nbsp;Bates and Phil Anstine would frequent. It had various other additions like buildings built on it, a camper, a dried-up pond, and burn pits. The two men would hang out there, shoot firearms, and overall hone their survival techniques. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Of the two male victims, Hardwick knew Phil Anstine.&nbsp;Hardwick did not know Marion Bates, but had a prior association with Phil Anstine through work that included building houses, akin to Habitat for Humanity. Anstine was said to have overseen much of the work, while Hardwick assisted with installation. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick called Anstine a friend and they were said to have a mutual interest in firearms. They were said to be close enough that they would travel to visit each other from time to time, but not frequently. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick’s last visit to see Anstine was said to be because of personal problems in his life. He wanted get out of Kansas City for a while. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick was said to have taken a Greyhound bus from Kansas City, Missouri to Hutchinson, Kansas to visit Anstine.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loftis told the jury that Anstine had dropped off Hardwick at the compound with a set of keys. Hardwick was said to have permission to drive Anstine’s truck and had those keys as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anstine then returned shortly after with Little Caesar’s pizza and Samuel Adams beer. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick’s defense by his attorney and by his own testimony, said he began to feel strange or ill after consuming some of the beer and the pizza.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick’s symptoms were described as&nbsp;stomach pains, light-headedness, and disorientation. Hardwick was said to have voiced his sudden illness to Anstine, and then went to the camper on the property where he passed out. Hardwick was said to not remember passing out in the camper. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick alleged he woke up the next day, still disoriented, face down on a bed in the camper with his pants down, and a pain in his anus.&nbsp;He said he&nbsp;surmised he was raped.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon leaving the camper to search for Anstine out of concern, Hardwick returned to the camper. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anstine is said to have returned to the compound with a shotgun in his hands. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick said he&nbsp;tried to tell Anstine of his situation, but became suspicious when Anstine was said to have been dismissive. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When Hardwick then accused Anstine of raping him, Anstine cocked and aimed his shotgun at Hardwick.&nbsp;Hardwick said he wrestled the shotgun out of Anstine’s hands. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anstine was said to have then pulled a .380 semiautomatic pistol and pointed it at Hardwick, causing Hardwick to fatally shoot him with the shotgun. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Still disoriented from the prior drugging and rape, the defense said that Hardwick then made his way to the pumphouse, north of the camper, for water. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loftis described to the jury what happened next as, “one of the real tragedies of this case.” &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Another man, unknown to Hardwick, appeared and shot at Hardwick. Hardwick shot back with the shotgun he had taken from Anstine, striking the second man. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After a while, determining the man is dead, Hardwick approached the body and searched the man and discovered his identity as Ed&nbsp;Bates. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loftis said, more than likely Bates was not part of Hardwick’s alleged rape, and only came to aid his friend, Anstine. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The state, consisting of District Attorney (DA) Thomas Stanton and Deputy District Attorney Andrew Davidson, called a number of witnesses, including friends of the victims, forensic analysts with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), and Sherry Reed herself, who corroborated the state’s opening statement that accused Hardwick of killing the pair for different reasons. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The KBI’s testimony mostly addressed the recovery and forensic testing of a red&nbsp;truck, which belonged to Phil Anstine, which was found at Pretty Prairie Road and Victory Road in October 2021. &nbsp;Hardwick’s DNA was found on multiple places on the truck as well as on items of evidence found in the truck. &nbsp;Sherry Reed was the key witness of the trial, having turned in numerous evidence to the Reno County Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;During his testimony, Chase Mattingly, the boyfriend of Sherry Reed’s daughter, said he had overheard part of a phone conversation between Hardwick and Reed on Aug. 31,&nbsp;2021. &nbsp;&nbsp;He only understood part of the conversation, and said he had heard Hardwick tell Reed he had messed up. &nbsp;&nbsp;During cross-examination by the defense, Mattingly said he did not know what Hardwick was referring to at the time. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick’s&nbsp;additional count of solicitation to commit perjury stems from&nbsp;a FaceTime call between the defendant and Reed.&nbsp;&nbsp;The FaceTime call had been played in court prior when Hardwick was bound over in June 2022, and was played again on Jan. 27. &nbsp;&nbsp;In the recorded FaceTime conversation, Hardwick repeatedly tells Reed not to show up for the hearing and, if she did testify, to tell the court she was mentally unstable and on drugs. At one time he said, “Please don’t come,” and repeatedly said, “you don’t have to show up.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick was also noted as telling Reed to “just tell the truth.” &nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick is also quoted to have said that “Phil was a friend and he dropped like a martyr.”&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Reed grew to become inconsistent with her testimony, claiming to not remember things she said even when her prior testimonies were presented to her. &nbsp;Brought up during the case, Hardwick was said to have told Reed he would have to kill his mother. &nbsp;During his own testimony when cross-examined, Hardwick would also prove inconsistent and become frustrated to the point he would accuse the state of “putting words in his mouth.” &nbsp;Hardwick also told the jury he had thoughts of suicide when he arrived to Hutchinson. &nbsp;The presentation of evidence concluded on Feb. 1. &nbsp;It was determined that Hardwick was stealing various guns, ammunition, and other items when Ed Bates caught him, prompting Hardwick to shoot him and move his body. &nbsp;Phil Anstine later discovered Hardwick and was killed in an execution style in the burn pit. &nbsp;Closing statements were made to the jury, and the jury began its deliberations,&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/4ab76543-081a-4c03-b2e4-be61806d0e55" target="_blank">reaching one the morning of Feb. 2 at 10:45 a.m.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The jury delivered a verdict of guilty in the case of the State of Kansas v. Kyle V. Hardwick. &nbsp;Hardwick was convicted of two counts of intentional and premeditated murder in the first degree and one count of theft of property or services, valued at $1,500 to $25,000, along with one count of theft of property or services of a firearm with a value less than $25,000 and a count of solicitation of perjury; testify to material fact in felony proceeding.&nbsp; &nbsp;During sentencing, two months later, the family and friends of Marion Edward “Ed” Bates and Phillip “Phil” D. Anstine delivered statements to Hardwick. &nbsp;They informed how Hardwick’s actions had impacted their lives. Many of them implored the court to hand down the maximum punishment. &nbsp;In the State of Kansas, the burden of proof on the prosecution is extremely high in murder cases and if there is an element of doubt in a defendant’s&nbsp;guilt, a jury will not be able to reach conviction. &nbsp;Judge Keith Schroeder reminded the jury and the gallery of this throughout the case. &nbsp;When sentencing Hardwick, Judge Schroeder made note of the lack of sympathy from Hardwick for his actions, and that he would return in kind. &nbsp;Stipulated with Hardwick’s life convictions, he will not receive good time credit. Additionally, he will be required to register as a violent offender. &nbsp;Concurrent with his life convictions, Hardwick will serve eight months for his third alternative count of theft and seven months for solicitation of perjury. &nbsp;“The Bates family is very satisfied with the outcome,” Ken Bates, brother of Ed Bates, said. “Justice is served.” &nbsp;

Kansas man sentenced for August 2021 double-murder

Melvin Norbert Metzen, age 75, passed away
 on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, in Garden City, Kansas.&nbsp; He was born on 
October 3, 1947, in Wichita, Kansas, The son of Leo Matthias and Agnes 
Caecilia Bayer Metzen.&nbsp; 

Melvin was a resident of Scott City, Kansas 
since 1973 moving from Larned, Kansas.&nbsp;

Melvin attended and majored in animal husbandry at Kansas State 
University.&nbsp; He made a career in Scott County working for multiple feed 
yards.&nbsp; After a brief retirement from the feed yards, he took a position
 with Circle C Farms which became the job he enjoyed the most.&nbsp; He was a
 Member of the Knights of Columbus, coached multiple youth sports, and 
was an active volunteer in beef 4-H projects for over 20 years.&nbsp;

On February 7, 1970, he married Janice K. Sanchez in Wichita, Kansas.

Survivors include his Wife - Janice Metzen of Scott City, Kansas, Two
 Sons - Melvin B. &amp; Cammi Metzen Of Garden City, Kansas, Daniel L. 
&amp; Sara Metzen of Houston, Texas, One Daughter - Karla A. &amp; Taff 
Pammenter Of Garden City, Kansas, One Sister - Francis &amp; Al Treichel
 of Alton, Illinois, Seven Grandchildren - Kiersten &amp; Brenden Hamit 
of Overbrook, Kansas, Caleb Metzen of Garden City, Kansas, Kyler Metzen 
of Garden City, Kansas, Lukas Metzen of Houston, Texas, Lily Metzen of 
Houston, Texas, Jessica Pammenter of Garden City, Kansas, Jacob 
Pammenter of Garden City, Kansas, Two Great Grandchildren - Bryson Hamit
 of Overbrook, Kansas, Emmaline Hamit of Overbrook, Kansas.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, April 10, 2023, at 10:30 
a.m. at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Scott City, Kansas with Fr. 
Don Bedore presiding.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be written to the St. Joseph 
Catholic Church in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 553, 
Scott City, Kansas, 67871.

Graveside Services will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at 1:00 
p.m. at the St. Anthony Cemetery in Garden Plain, Kansas with Fr. H. 
Setter presiding.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Saturday and 1:00 
p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Sunday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, 401 S. 
Washington St, Scott City, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680810560000.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Melvin Norbert Metzen, age 75, passed away
 on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, in Garden City, Kansas.&nbsp; He was born on 
October 3, 1947, in Wichita, Kansas, The son of Leo Matthias and Agnes 
Caecilia Bayer Metzen.&nbsp; Melvin was a resident of Scott City, Kansas 
since 1973 moving from Larned, Kansas.&nbsp;Melvin attended and majored in animal husbandry at Kansas State 
University.&nbsp; He made a career in Scott County working for multiple feed 
yards.&nbsp; After a brief retirement from the feed yards, he took a position
 with Circle C Farms which became the job he enjoyed the most.&nbsp; He was a
 Member of the Knights of Columbus, coached multiple youth sports, and 
was an active volunteer in beef 4-H projects for over 20 years.&nbsp;On February 7, 1970, he married Janice K. Sanchez in Wichita, Kansas.Survivors include his Wife - Janice Metzen of Scott City, Kansas, Two
 Sons - Melvin B. &amp; Cammi Metzen Of Garden City, Kansas, Daniel L. 
&amp; Sara Metzen of Houston, Texas, One Daughter - Karla A. &amp; Taff 
Pammenter Of Garden City, Kansas, One Sister - Francis &amp; Al Treichel
 of Alton, Illinois, Seven Grandchildren - Kiersten &amp; Brenden Hamit 
of Overbrook, Kansas, Caleb Metzen of Garden City, Kansas, Kyler Metzen 
of Garden City, Kansas, Lukas Metzen of Houston, Texas, Lily Metzen of 
Houston, Texas, Jessica Pammenter of Garden City, Kansas, Jacob 
Pammenter of Garden City, Kansas, Two Great Grandchildren - Bryson Hamit
 of Overbrook, Kansas, Emmaline Hamit of Overbrook, Kansas.He was preceded in death by his Parents.Funeral Services will be held on Monday, April 10, 2023, at 10:30 
a.m. at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Scott City, Kansas with Fr. 
Don Bedore presiding.In lieu of flowers, memorials can be written to the St. Joseph 
Catholic Church in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 553, 
Scott City, Kansas, 67871.Graveside Services will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at 1:00 
p.m. at the St. Anthony Cemetery in Garden Plain, Kansas with Fr. H. 
Setter presiding.Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Saturday and 1:00 
p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Sunday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, 401 S. 
Washington St, Scott City, Kansas.

Melvin N. Metzen

WICHITA, KAN. – A former police officer has been sentenced in Sedgwick County District Court. 

Judge David Kaufman sentenced&nbsp; 32-year-old Victor Heiar of Park City to a controlling term of 24 months in jail from which he was granted probation for 18 months.

&nbsp;The former lieutenant of the Kechi Police Department pled guilty to computer crime and stalking, both misdemeanors. Heiar took advantage of his position in the department to use the Flock License Plate Reader system to monitor his estranged wife’s location. The woman had told a friend that she was scared and thought Heiar was somehow tracking her whereabouts. 

The friend later contacted a Wichita Police officer and asked how someone could get a protection from stalking order. Heiar was arrested by Wichita Police on October 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1667210771238.png" alt="Heiar-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Heiar-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A former police officer has been sentenced in Sedgwick County District Court. Judge David Kaufman sentenced&nbsp; 32-year-old Victor Heiar of Park City to a controlling term of 24 months in jail from which he was granted probation for 18 months.&nbsp;The former lieutenant of the Kechi Police Department pled guilty to computer crime and stalking, both misdemeanors. Heiar took advantage of his position in the department to use the Flock License Plate Reader system to monitor his estranged wife’s location. The woman had told a friend that she was scared and thought Heiar was somehow tracking her whereabouts. The friend later contacted a Wichita Police officer and asked how someone could get a protection from stalking order. Heiar was arrested by Wichita Police on October 26..