Jimmie (Clark) Carswell,93,&nbsp; Alton, Kansas passed away
at Russell Homestead Assisted Living on January 1, 2025. Jimmie was born to
Sarah (O’Neill) Clark and A. Seaborn Clark on January 20, 1931, in Gateway
Arkansas.&nbsp; Many people found the name Jimmie to be unusual for a female,
but she was named after her grandpa James O’Neill, and she was always very
proud of that fact. At the age of four, Sarah married Homer Doughty, and they
moved the family to Webster Kansas. Jimmie had two sisters, Shirley King and
Lucy Kennedy. 

Jimmie married John W. (Bill) Carswell in Denver
Colorado in April 1951. They lived in Alton, KS their entire married living on
a small farm south of town. They had three sons Robert (Bob), Gerald (Lisa),
and Kendal (Elisabet). She worked alongside Bill milking cows, driving trucks,
and everything else she could do to help Bill and the farm be successful, while
also caring for the boys. After they sold the dairy cows, she worked outside of
the home in several different jobs both in Alton and Osborne.

Jimmie had always dreamed of owning a restaurant. This
became reality in the early 1980s when she and Bill bought the 183 Lanes
Bowling Alley in Stockton, Kansas. The restaurant thrived as it was generally
overflowing with customers every lunch and dinner. She took pride in how
successful the restaurant became, and she looked forward to going to work there
every day. 

Jimmie lived a full life, enjoying every minute. She
dearly loved her family, and she would protect them fiercely. She loved
attending church, playing cards, visiting with family and friends, attending
Lady Auxiliary meetings, and the Bull City Opry during the Alton Jubilee. After
her husband Bill passed in 1998. Jimmie loved dancing and she eventually began
attending dances with her lady friends nearly every weekend. In 2000, she
started wintering in the Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas and did so for twenty
years. 

Jimmie is survived by her son Kendal, eight
grandchildren Amber Dull, Travis Carswell, Sammantha Carswell, Kassidy
Carswell, Keith Carswell, Paul Carswell, Ashley Carswell, and Kendal Carswell,
Jr along with numerous great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. She
was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband Bill, sons Bob &amp; Gerald,
great grandson Khouri Snedecor, and her sister Shirley King. She will be dearly
missed by family and friends.

A visitation will be held on Thursday January 9, 2025,
from 5pm until 7pm at the Rentschler Family Mortuaries Osborne Chapel.

Celebration of life services will be held at 11AM on
Friday January 10, 2025, at the United Methodist Church in Alton, KS.

Burial will follow in the Sumner Cemetery, rural
Alton, KS.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers memorials
be given in lieu of flowers to the Alton Pride and be sent in care of the
mortuary.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Rentschler
Family Mortuaries Osborne Chapel.

<a href="http://www.rfmortuaries.com">www.rfmortuaries.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736195719799.jpeg" alt="Jimmie (Clark) Carswell" />
 <figcaption>Jimmie (Clark) Carswell</figcaption>
 </figure>Jimmie (Clark) Carswell,93,&nbsp; Alton, Kansas passed away
at Russell Homestead Assisted Living on January 1, 2025. Jimmie was born to
Sarah (O’Neill) Clark and A. Seaborn Clark on January 20, 1931, in Gateway
Arkansas.&nbsp; Many people found the name Jimmie to be unusual for a female,
but she was named after her grandpa James O’Neill, and she was always very
proud of that fact. At the age of four, Sarah married Homer Doughty, and they
moved the family to Webster Kansas. Jimmie had two sisters, Shirley King and
Lucy Kennedy. Jimmie married John W. (Bill) Carswell in Denver
Colorado in April 1951. They lived in Alton, KS their entire married living on
a small farm south of town. They had three sons Robert (Bob), Gerald (Lisa),
and Kendal (Elisabet). She worked alongside Bill milking cows, driving trucks,
and everything else she could do to help Bill and the farm be successful, while
also caring for the boys. After they sold the dairy cows, she worked outside of
the home in several different jobs both in Alton and Osborne.Jimmie had always dreamed of owning a restaurant. This
became reality in the early 1980s when she and Bill bought the 183 Lanes
Bowling Alley in Stockton, Kansas. The restaurant thrived as it was generally
overflowing with customers every lunch and dinner. She took pride in how
successful the restaurant became, and she looked forward to going to work there
every day. Jimmie lived a full life, enjoying every minute. She
dearly loved her family, and she would protect them fiercely. She loved
attending church, playing cards, visiting with family and friends, attending
Lady Auxiliary meetings, and the Bull City Opry during the Alton Jubilee. After
her husband Bill passed in 1998. Jimmie loved dancing and she eventually began
attending dances with her lady friends nearly every weekend. In 2000, she
started wintering in the Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas and did so for twenty
years. Jimmie is survived by her son Kendal, eight
grandchildren Amber Dull, Travis Carswell, Sammantha Carswell, Kassidy
Carswell, Keith Carswell, Paul Carswell, Ashley Carswell, and Kendal Carswell,
Jr along with numerous great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. She
was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband Bill, sons Bob &amp; Gerald,
great grandson Khouri Snedecor, and her sister Shirley King. She will be dearly
missed by family and friends.A visitation will be held on Thursday January 9, 2025,
from 5pm until 7pm at the Rentschler Family Mortuaries Osborne Chapel.Celebration of life services will be held at 11AM on
Friday January 10, 2025, at the United Methodist Church in Alton, KS.Burial will follow in the Sumner Cemetery, rural
Alton, KS.The family has asked that in lieu of flowers memorials
be given in lieu of flowers to the Alton Pride and be sent in care of the
mortuary.Arrangements have been entrusted to the Rentschler
Family Mortuaries Osborne Chapel.<a href="http://www.rfmortuaries.com">www.rfmortuaries.com</a>

Jimmie (Clark) Carswell

Eddy DeBoer, a former Phillipsburg resident, passed away on
Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at the Via Christi Village in Hays, KS, at the age
of 85. Born on July 7, 1939, in Prairie View, KS, he was the son of John Edward
and Esther Eunice (Nonhof) DeBoer.

Eddy married Anita Louise Jansonius on December 19, 1959, in
Bethany, MO. He dedicated his career to the Phillips County Road and Bridge
Department in Phillipsburg, where he was recognized as having the best oiled
roads in Kansas, eventually retiring as the Road and Bridge Supervisor in
2001—a role he deeply cherished. He spent countless weekends and evenings
working alongside his children in the Grader, creating sand rows and performing
various tasks.

Outside of work, Eddy was a devoted family man, maybe a little
strict at times, but he traveled far and wide to support his children in their
numerous sporting events. He was also a man of faith, regularly attending
church with his family. &nbsp;Above all, his pride and joy were his
grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Esther;
stepmother Winifred; sister Joan McLeod; brother's-in-law Wally Schmeichel and
John Jansonius; sister and brother-in-law Keith and Georgia Brown;
parents-in-law William and Vivian Jansonius; and nephews Jared DeBoer and
Stephen Brown.

Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Anita of Hays, KS; son
Jerol DeBoer and wife Denise of Hays, KS; daughters Cindy Vink and husband
Kenny of Ellinwood, KS, Tammy Slayton of Hays, Rhonda Kellerman and husband
Kerry of Phillipsburg, Lisa Thummel and husband Jeff of Hays, and Lori Bogart
of Hays; 14 grandchildren: Lyndsae Schoenthaler and husband Derek, Gavin Vink,
Briana DeBoer, Brooke Slayton, Jordan Imel and husband Lucas, Jaron Kellerman,
Jacey Kellerman, Kelsee Walker and husband Austin, Taylor DeBoer, Kaiden Grieve
and wife Shelby, Megan Stouffer and husband Lucas, Kali DeBey and husband
Damon, Alex Bogart, and Kambri Bogart; 14 great grandchildren (with one on the
way): Josey, Canon, Luke, Maggie, Blakely, Brecklyn, Barrett, Emerie, Renlie,
Alita, Anika, Jeremiah, Noah, and Abel; a brother Dennis DeBoer and wife
Bernita of Kearney, NE; a sister Jean Schmeichel of Fitchburg, WI;
brother-in-law Van Jansonius and wife Cay; several nieces, nephews, cousins,
and friends.

Funeral services will be
held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 6, 2025 at the United Methodist Church in
Phillipsburg with Pastor Gary Simon officiating.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100055272974764">The
services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook
page.</a>&nbsp; Burial will
follow in the Fairview Cemetery, Phillipsburg.

Mr. DeBoer will lie in
state from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday at the
Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg. &nbsp;The family will receive
friends Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for visitation at the funeral chapel.

Memorial contributions
may be made to the Brookdale Senior Living and the Hospice at Hays Med c/o
Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, PO Box 563, Phillipsburg, KS&nbsp; 67661.

Online condolences may
be left at www.olliffboeve.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736129105813.jpeg" alt="Eddy DeBoer" />
 <figcaption>Eddy DeBoer</figcaption>
 </figure>Eddy DeBoer, a former Phillipsburg resident, passed away on
Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at the Via Christi Village in Hays, KS, at the age
of 85. Born on July 7, 1939, in Prairie View, KS, he was the son of John Edward
and Esther Eunice (Nonhof) DeBoer.Eddy married Anita Louise Jansonius on December 19, 1959, in
Bethany, MO. He dedicated his career to the Phillips County Road and Bridge
Department in Phillipsburg, where he was recognized as having the best oiled
roads in Kansas, eventually retiring as the Road and Bridge Supervisor in
2001—a role he deeply cherished. He spent countless weekends and evenings
working alongside his children in the Grader, creating sand rows and performing
various tasks.Outside of work, Eddy was a devoted family man, maybe a little
strict at times, but he traveled far and wide to support his children in their
numerous sporting events. He was also a man of faith, regularly attending
church with his family. &nbsp;Above all, his pride and joy were his
grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents John and Esther;
stepmother Winifred; sister Joan McLeod; brother's-in-law Wally Schmeichel and
John Jansonius; sister and brother-in-law Keith and Georgia Brown;
parents-in-law William and Vivian Jansonius; and nephews Jared DeBoer and
Stephen Brown.Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Anita of Hays, KS; son
Jerol DeBoer and wife Denise of Hays, KS; daughters Cindy Vink and husband
Kenny of Ellinwood, KS, Tammy Slayton of Hays, Rhonda Kellerman and husband
Kerry of Phillipsburg, Lisa Thummel and husband Jeff of Hays, and Lori Bogart
of Hays; 14 grandchildren: Lyndsae Schoenthaler and husband Derek, Gavin Vink,
Briana DeBoer, Brooke Slayton, Jordan Imel and husband Lucas, Jaron Kellerman,
Jacey Kellerman, Kelsee Walker and husband Austin, Taylor DeBoer, Kaiden Grieve
and wife Shelby, Megan Stouffer and husband Lucas, Kali DeBey and husband
Damon, Alex Bogart, and Kambri Bogart; 14 great grandchildren (with one on the
way): Josey, Canon, Luke, Maggie, Blakely, Brecklyn, Barrett, Emerie, Renlie,
Alita, Anika, Jeremiah, Noah, and Abel; a brother Dennis DeBoer and wife
Bernita of Kearney, NE; a sister Jean Schmeichel of Fitchburg, WI;
brother-in-law Van Jansonius and wife Cay; several nieces, nephews, cousins,
and friends.Funeral services will be
held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 6, 2025 at the United Methodist Church in
Phillipsburg with Pastor Gary Simon officiating.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100055272974764">The
services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook
page.</a>&nbsp; Burial will
follow in the Fairview Cemetery, Phillipsburg.Mr. DeBoer will lie in
state from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday at the
Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg. &nbsp;The family will receive
friends Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for visitation at the funeral chapel.Memorial contributions
may be made to the Brookdale Senior Living and the Hospice at Hays Med c/o
Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, PO Box 563, Phillipsburg, KS&nbsp; 67661.Online condolences may
be left at www.olliffboeve.com.

Eddy DeBoer

Dale L. Scheideman, 71, La Crosse, Kansas, passed away Tuesday,
December 31, 2024, at his home.

Dale was born January
14, 1953, in La Crosse, Kansas, the son of Vernon L. “Bus” and Inez Velma
(Holopirek) Scheideman.&nbsp; Born and raised
in La Crosse, Kansas, he moved back to La Crosse, Kansas, in the early 2000s
from Texas.&nbsp; A 1971 graduate of La Crosse
High School, La Crosse, Kansas, he received an Associate’s Degree in Criminal
Justice from Barton County Community College, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; He was a correctional officer for the State
of Kansas before his retirement.&nbsp; At the
time of his passing, Dale was working for Casey’s in La Crosse, Kansas.

Dale enjoyed playing
cards and the occasional trip to the casino.

Survivors
include:&nbsp; his son, Jayson Scheideman
(Zera), Palestine, Texas; two brothers, Larry Scheideman, La Crosse, Kansas,
and Kent Scheideman (Doris), Haysville, Kansas; his former wife, Esther
Whitlock; two grand dogs, Duke and Athena;&nbsp;
his nephews and nieces; and many cousins and friends.

He was preceded in
death by his parents; and his many uncles and aunts.

Honoring Dale’s
wishes, the family has chosen cremation.

A memorial service
will take place at a later date.&nbsp; The
memorial service information will be placed on the Janousek Funeral Home
website once a date and time has been decided.

In lieu of flowers or
plants, the family requests memorials to the Dale L. Scheideman Memorial Fund.

Condolences or
remembrances may be left for the family at <a href="http://www.janousekfuneralhome.com/">www.janousekfuneralhome.com</a>.

Arrangements were by
Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548,
785/222-2517.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736015489431.jpeg" alt="Dale L. Scheideman" />
 <figcaption>Dale L. Scheideman</figcaption>
 </figure>Dale L. Scheideman, 71, La Crosse, Kansas, passed away Tuesday,
December 31, 2024, at his home.Dale was born January
14, 1953, in La Crosse, Kansas, the son of Vernon L. “Bus” and Inez Velma
(Holopirek) Scheideman.&nbsp; Born and raised
in La Crosse, Kansas, he moved back to La Crosse, Kansas, in the early 2000s
from Texas.&nbsp; A 1971 graduate of La Crosse
High School, La Crosse, Kansas, he received an Associate’s Degree in Criminal
Justice from Barton County Community College, Great Bend, Kansas.&nbsp; He was a correctional officer for the State
of Kansas before his retirement.&nbsp; At the
time of his passing, Dale was working for Casey’s in La Crosse, Kansas.Dale enjoyed playing
cards and the occasional trip to the casino.Survivors
include:&nbsp; his son, Jayson Scheideman
(Zera), Palestine, Texas; two brothers, Larry Scheideman, La Crosse, Kansas,
and Kent Scheideman (Doris), Haysville, Kansas; his former wife, Esther
Whitlock; two grand dogs, Duke and Athena;&nbsp;
his nephews and nieces; and many cousins and friends.He was preceded in
death by his parents; and his many uncles and aunts.Honoring Dale’s
wishes, the family has chosen cremation.A memorial service
will take place at a later date.&nbsp; The
memorial service information will be placed on the Janousek Funeral Home
website once a date and time has been decided.In lieu of flowers or
plants, the family requests memorials to the Dale L. Scheideman Memorial Fund.Condolences or
remembrances may be left for the family at <a href="http://www.janousekfuneralhome.com/">www.janousekfuneralhome.com</a>.Arrangements were by
Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548,
785/222-2517.

Dale L. Scheideman

&nbsp; Dennis L.
Lacock – age 82, of Lawrence, Kansas passed away peacefully at his home&nbsp;
on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.

He was born January 17, 1942, at Randolph Field, Texas to Frank Lloyd and Agnes
Hilda (Carlson) Lacock.&nbsp; He married Judy (Rome) on October 28, 1967, in
Victoria, Kansas.

Dennis was a hydrologist with the U. S. Geological Survey for 37 years
and retired in 2002.&nbsp; He grew up in St. Marys, Kansas, was a 1960 graduate
of St. Marys High School,&nbsp; and was a graduate of Emporia State College.&nbsp;
He was a veteran of the U S Army.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Judy, of the home. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Michael Lacock.

&nbsp;A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, January
8, 2025, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas
with Celebrant, Father James Moster O.F.M. Cap.

 Burial will be in the Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas with Military
Honors by the Victoria V.F.W. Post #1751.&nbsp;&nbsp; 

&nbsp;Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, at the church with a
family rosary at 10:45 A.M.&nbsp; 

The family suggests memorials made payable to: St. Fidelis Cemetery Fund or
ELARA Caring Hospice Foundation in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main
Street, Victoria, Kansas 676671.

Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by
guestbook at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735944023897.jpeg" alt="Dennis L. Lacock" />
 <figcaption>Dennis L. Lacock</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Dennis L.
Lacock – age 82, of Lawrence, Kansas passed away peacefully at his home&nbsp;
on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.He was born January 17, 1942, at Randolph Field, Texas to Frank Lloyd and Agnes
Hilda (Carlson) Lacock.&nbsp; He married Judy (Rome) on October 28, 1967, in
Victoria, Kansas.Dennis was a hydrologist with the U. S. Geological Survey for 37 years
and retired in 2002.&nbsp; He grew up in St. Marys, Kansas, was a 1960 graduate
of St. Marys High School,&nbsp; and was a graduate of Emporia State College.&nbsp;
He was a veteran of the U S Army.Dennis is survived by his wife, Judy, of the home. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Michael Lacock.&nbsp;A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, January
8, 2025, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas
with Celebrant, Father James Moster O.F.M. Cap. Burial will be in the Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas with Military
Honors by the Victoria V.F.W. Post #1751.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, at the church with a
family rosary at 10:45 A.M.&nbsp; The family suggests memorials made payable to: St. Fidelis Cemetery Fund or
ELARA Caring Hospice Foundation in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main
Street, Victoria, Kansas 676671.Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by
guestbook at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Dennis L. Lacock

Avis Venita (Roach) Walker - age
100, of Stockton, Kansas passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Via
Christi Village Care Center, Hays, Kansas.

She was born November 22, 1924, in rural Osborne County Kansas to Orva and
Lillian (Lampman) Roach. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;She was a cook for over 50 years in most all the restaurants in Stockton.&nbsp;
She also was the cook for many years at the Episcopal youth summer camp “Camp
Pecusa” at Lake Webster which was during the 1960’s and 1970’s.&nbsp; 

Avis grew up on the family farm at Alton, Kansas and graduated from Harlan High
School in 1941.&nbsp; She enjoyed her flower and vegetable gardening at her
home in Stockton, and always made time for her family, &nbsp;The last seven
months she has lived at the Via Christi Village Care Center. 

Avis is survived by her sons, David Lawson, Hays, KS; DeVern Walker, Hays, KS;
her daughters, Darla Riggs, Grand Junction, CO; Durelle Smith and husband,
Randy, Hutchinson, KS; her nine grandchildren; her 22 great grandchildren, and
her three great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Orva and Lillian Roach; her son, Dana
Lawson; her brother, Clifford Roach; her infant brother, Paul Roach; her
sisters, Beryl Schoenberg; Velva Reinking, and Euleta Gregory; her daughter-in-law,
Mary Elaine Lawson; and a great grandchild.

A Celebration of Life Service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 11, 2025, at&nbsp;Cline’s-Keithley
Mortuary of Hays with Rev. Steve Schultz officiation.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial made payable to:
Via Christi Village in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd
Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.

Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by
guestbook at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735853305771.jpeg" alt="Avis Venita (Roach) Walker" />
 <figcaption>Avis Venita (Roach) Walker</figcaption>
 </figure>Avis Venita (Roach) Walker - age
100, of Stockton, Kansas passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Via
Christi Village Care Center, Hays, Kansas.She was born November 22, 1924, in rural Osborne County Kansas to Orva and
Lillian (Lampman) Roach. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She was a cook for over 50 years in most all the restaurants in Stockton.&nbsp;
She also was the cook for many years at the Episcopal youth summer camp “Camp
Pecusa” at Lake Webster which was during the 1960’s and 1970’s.&nbsp; Avis grew up on the family farm at Alton, Kansas and graduated from Harlan High
School in 1941.&nbsp; She enjoyed her flower and vegetable gardening at her
home in Stockton, and always made time for her family, &nbsp;The last seven
months she has lived at the Via Christi Village Care Center. Avis is survived by her sons, David Lawson, Hays, KS; DeVern Walker, Hays, KS;
her daughters, Darla Riggs, Grand Junction, CO; Durelle Smith and husband,
Randy, Hutchinson, KS; her nine grandchildren; her 22 great grandchildren, and
her three great great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents, Orva and Lillian Roach; her son, Dana
Lawson; her brother, Clifford Roach; her infant brother, Paul Roach; her
sisters, Beryl Schoenberg; Velva Reinking, and Euleta Gregory; her daughter-in-law,
Mary Elaine Lawson; and a great grandchild.A Celebration of Life Service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 11, 2025, at&nbsp;Cline’s-Keithley
Mortuary of Hays with Rev. Steve Schultz officiation.In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial made payable to:
Via Christi Village in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd
Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by
guestbook at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Avis Venita (Roach) Walker

Bonnie Joann Siruta, 84, of Winona, died Monday, December 30,
2024. She was born in Levant, KS, on February 10, 1940, to Doyle and Frances
(Tubbs) Erwin. Bonnie attended school in Levant and became a homemaker for many
years before joining the workforce. She loved to cook for others and throughout
her career she worked at Colby Community College, in food service, Marlins
Diner and Country Kitchen in Winona and then for the Winona Triplains School. 



On August 26, 1955, Bonnie married Donald Siruta, in Russell, KS. To this union
12 children were born. Bonnie was proud of her children and kept them in line
(especially the boys) with a twist of the ear and “the pinch”. She was always
involved in their activities and served as a Boy Scout and 4-H leader and youth
group volunteer. She was a hard worker, taking care of the chickens, cows and
her garden, which was her pride and joy. She could make anything grow! Bonnie
truly loved caring for her family, and especially enjoyed her grandkids.
Bonnie’s grandsons and a few other family members enjoy participating in
“Bonnie’s Rules”, a very competitive fantasy football league, where the loser
has to wear a brown bag over their head at the family Christmas dinner and the
winner gets the traveling trophy. Her love for her daughters was unconditional,
but her boys walked on water (according to her daughters). 



Upon retirement, Bonnie enjoyed going to Winona Cafe with her girlfriends,
Judy, Sherri, Linda and many others. Some of her favorite things were taking
drives, especially at Christmas time to look at lights, working in her yard and
with her flowers and taking little trips to go shopping and get Sonic. She also
looked forward to her frequent visits from her special friend Jiah, who would
go to his special snack drawer before they began their long visits. She also
enjoyed volunteering for the Tri-County Amusement, the league basketball
tournaments and Winona Chamber. In 2020, Bonnie was honored as the Grand
Marshal of the Triplains Homecoming. The Winona community, as well as the
faculty, staff and students of Triplains Schools held a special place in her
heart and her family will be forever grateful for that. 



Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; husband Don; sons, Troy (1977),
Johnny (1981) and Keith (2017); brothers, Maurice “Mickey” Erwin and Marvin
Erwin; sister Connie Shea and grandson, Tate Siruta.



She is survived by her children, Ron (Dee), of Oakley, Kent (Melissa), of
Johnson, Dan (Debbie) of Goodland, Duskin (Missy), of Colby, Rod (Daisy), of
Arapahoe, CO, Susan (Doug) Holzmeister, of Colby, Karen Doze, of Garden City,
Jason (Alicia), of Colby, and Jamie, of Ness City; daughter-in-law, Connie
Harrison; sister-in-law Luretta Erwin; grandchildren, Kylie Austin, Drew
Siruta, Kraig Siruta, Amanda Siruta, Loree Reinert, Brandon Siruta, Courtney
Parsons, Johnny Siruta, Lacie Cozza, Brady Holzmeister, Shaylee Holzmeister,
Brett Doze, Cody Doze, Ashley Mosier, Callie Staab and Jadon Siruta and 23
great grandchildren. 

Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the Winona Methodist
Church. Funeral Service is 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 3, 2025, at the Winona
Methodist Church, with burial in the Winona Cemetery. Memorials may be made to
Citizens Health or the Winona Chamber of Commerce (for the Main Street Project)
and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For
information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735840551017.jpeg" alt="Bonnie Joann Siruta" />
 <figcaption>Bonnie Joann Siruta</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonnie Joann Siruta, 84, of Winona, died Monday, December 30,
2024. She was born in Levant, KS, on February 10, 1940, to Doyle and Frances
(Tubbs) Erwin. Bonnie attended school in Levant and became a homemaker for many
years before joining the workforce. She loved to cook for others and throughout
her career she worked at Colby Community College, in food service, Marlins
Diner and Country Kitchen in Winona and then for the Winona Triplains School. 

On August 26, 1955, Bonnie married Donald Siruta, in Russell, KS. To this union
12 children were born. Bonnie was proud of her children and kept them in line
(especially the boys) with a twist of the ear and “the pinch”. She was always
involved in their activities and served as a Boy Scout and 4-H leader and youth
group volunteer. She was a hard worker, taking care of the chickens, cows and
her garden, which was her pride and joy. She could make anything grow! Bonnie
truly loved caring for her family, and especially enjoyed her grandkids.
Bonnie’s grandsons and a few other family members enjoy participating in
“Bonnie’s Rules”, a very competitive fantasy football league, where the loser
has to wear a brown bag over their head at the family Christmas dinner and the
winner gets the traveling trophy. Her love for her daughters was unconditional,
but her boys walked on water (according to her daughters). 

Upon retirement, Bonnie enjoyed going to Winona Cafe with her girlfriends,
Judy, Sherri, Linda and many others. Some of her favorite things were taking
drives, especially at Christmas time to look at lights, working in her yard and
with her flowers and taking little trips to go shopping and get Sonic. She also
looked forward to her frequent visits from her special friend Jiah, who would
go to his special snack drawer before they began their long visits. She also
enjoyed volunteering for the Tri-County Amusement, the league basketball
tournaments and Winona Chamber. In 2020, Bonnie was honored as the Grand
Marshal of the Triplains Homecoming. The Winona community, as well as the
faculty, staff and students of Triplains Schools held a special place in her
heart and her family will be forever grateful for that. 

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; husband Don; sons, Troy (1977),
Johnny (1981) and Keith (2017); brothers, Maurice “Mickey” Erwin and Marvin
Erwin; sister Connie Shea and grandson, Tate Siruta.

She is survived by her children, Ron (Dee), of Oakley, Kent (Melissa), of
Johnson, Dan (Debbie) of Goodland, Duskin (Missy), of Colby, Rod (Daisy), of
Arapahoe, CO, Susan (Doug) Holzmeister, of Colby, Karen Doze, of Garden City,
Jason (Alicia), of Colby, and Jamie, of Ness City; daughter-in-law, Connie
Harrison; sister-in-law Luretta Erwin; grandchildren, Kylie Austin, Drew
Siruta, Kraig Siruta, Amanda Siruta, Loree Reinert, Brandon Siruta, Courtney
Parsons, Johnny Siruta, Lacie Cozza, Brady Holzmeister, Shaylee Holzmeister,
Brett Doze, Cody Doze, Ashley Mosier, Callie Staab and Jadon Siruta and 23
great grandchildren. 

Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the Winona Methodist
Church. Funeral Service is 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 3, 2025, at the Winona
Methodist Church, with burial in the Winona Cemetery. Memorials may be made to
Citizens Health or the Winona Chamber of Commerce (for the Main Street Project)
and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For
information or condolences visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

Bonnie Joann Siruta

Robert (Bob) Piatt, 79, of
Victoria, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at Good Samaritan
Home in Ellis, Kansas, following a courageous, long-time battle with several
medical issues.&nbsp; 

Bob was born in Eureka, Kansas, to
Robert and Lois Piatt and spent his early years on the family farm, which he
remembered as being a wonderful place. He loved telling people about riding his
horse to a one-room schoolhouse in the first grade. Through his Madison years,
he credited his membership in 4-H with acquiring practical and life
lessons.&nbsp; He was also very proud of
having earned the rank of Eagle Scout during his high school years.&nbsp; 

Bob married his wife Nancy McGuire
in 1972 and they were the proud parents of Christopher and Matthew. In addition
to their own sons, they were surrogate parents to their niece Meghan McGuire
and three international exchange students, Jasmin Wusthoff, (Germany) Anita
Solheim, (Norway) and Greta Kaufeld (Germany).

Although Bob was a huge sports fan
at heart, neither son had athletic abilities to speak of.&nbsp; So he happily pivoted to sitting through
countless plays, variety shows, recitals, concerts and even the occasional
opera.

A 1962 graduate of Madison High
School, Bob continued his education earning both a Bachelor's and Master’s
degree in English and Special Education from Emporia State University. He spent
his first teaching years in Beloit and later taught at WaKeeney High School,
Gorham and Russell High School. Taking a break from teaching in 1972, Bob
worked for 10 years in Garden City for a government program known as the
Neighborhood Youth Corps before returning to education. Everywhere he worked,
he built friendships with colleagues that lasted until the end of his life. His
favorite extra-curricular responsibility was directing school productions both
in Russell and Victoria known for their zany comedy and huge casts (in which
occasionally he made a surprise cameo appearance).

A mentor and role model to
generations of students, many credited him as helping them turn their lives
around when it mattered most. His volunteer commitments included devoted
participation in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters program. He also served on the
local Board for the National Alliance for Mental Illness and the Victoria
Housing Authority.&nbsp; 

Through the years, Bob and Nancy
were known for their hospitality, welcoming dozens of actors, musicians,
comedians and other riffraff who passed through Victoria in need of room and
board. His love of animals, especially dogs, enriched his entire life.

Bob was a passionate fisherman
whose adventures took him and his many buddies to Kansas ponds, frozen
Minnesota ice waters, and Canadian lakes. Bob always had a green thumb and was
especially proud of his asparagus and tomato crops.&nbsp; An avid reader of hundreds of books, he was
known to be a formidable competitor in Trivial Pursuit.

Everyone who knew him well has
memories of his incredibly sharp sense of humor.&nbsp; He could get a laugh out of almost anyone in
his presence.

A quiet man of faith, Bob was
eternally grateful for life’s simple pleasures.&nbsp;
He was known to say “God knew what he was doing, when he planted me in
rural Kansas.”

Bob was preceded in death by his
parents, his sister Georgeann and husband Jack, and his sister Drusilla and
husband George, and niece Kathy Haworth.&nbsp;


He is survived by his wife Nancy,
son Christopher from Chicago, son Matthew and son-in-law Kevin Thornton of San
Francisco as well as a large, extended loving family and countless
friends.&nbsp; 

A celebration of life will be at
11:00 am on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church.&nbsp; The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm
until 7:00 on Friday, January 3, 2025 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and
from 10:00 am until service time at the church.&nbsp;
Memorials are suggested to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County,
HaysMed Hospice, or to Great Plains Theatre in Abilene.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Bob may be left
for his family at www.haysmemorial.com 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734550504783.jpeg" alt="Robert (Bob) Piatt" />
 <figcaption>Robert (Bob) Piatt</figcaption>
 </figure>Robert (Bob) Piatt, 79, of
Victoria, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2024 at Good Samaritan
Home in Ellis, Kansas, following a courageous, long-time battle with several
medical issues.&nbsp; Bob was born in Eureka, Kansas, to
Robert and Lois Piatt and spent his early years on the family farm, which he
remembered as being a wonderful place. He loved telling people about riding his
horse to a one-room schoolhouse in the first grade. Through his Madison years,
he credited his membership in 4-H with acquiring practical and life
lessons.&nbsp; He was also very proud of
having earned the rank of Eagle Scout during his high school years.&nbsp; Bob married his wife Nancy McGuire
in 1972 and they were the proud parents of Christopher and Matthew. In addition
to their own sons, they were surrogate parents to their niece Meghan McGuire
and three international exchange students, Jasmin Wusthoff, (Germany) Anita
Solheim, (Norway) and Greta Kaufeld (Germany).Although Bob was a huge sports fan
at heart, neither son had athletic abilities to speak of.&nbsp; So he happily pivoted to sitting through
countless plays, variety shows, recitals, concerts and even the occasional
opera.A 1962 graduate of Madison High
School, Bob continued his education earning both a Bachelor's and Master’s
degree in English and Special Education from Emporia State University. He spent
his first teaching years in Beloit and later taught at WaKeeney High School,
Gorham and Russell High School. Taking a break from teaching in 1972, Bob
worked for 10 years in Garden City for a government program known as the
Neighborhood Youth Corps before returning to education. Everywhere he worked,
he built friendships with colleagues that lasted until the end of his life. His
favorite extra-curricular responsibility was directing school productions both
in Russell and Victoria known for their zany comedy and huge casts (in which
occasionally he made a surprise cameo appearance).A mentor and role model to
generations of students, many credited him as helping them turn their lives
around when it mattered most. His volunteer commitments included devoted
participation in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters program. He also served on the
local Board for the National Alliance for Mental Illness and the Victoria
Housing Authority.&nbsp; Through the years, Bob and Nancy
were known for their hospitality, welcoming dozens of actors, musicians,
comedians and other riffraff who passed through Victoria in need of room and
board. His love of animals, especially dogs, enriched his entire life.Bob was a passionate fisherman
whose adventures took him and his many buddies to Kansas ponds, frozen
Minnesota ice waters, and Canadian lakes. Bob always had a green thumb and was
especially proud of his asparagus and tomato crops.&nbsp; An avid reader of hundreds of books, he was
known to be a formidable competitor in Trivial Pursuit.Everyone who knew him well has
memories of his incredibly sharp sense of humor.&nbsp; He could get a laugh out of almost anyone in
his presence.A quiet man of faith, Bob was
eternally grateful for life’s simple pleasures.&nbsp;
He was known to say “God knew what he was doing, when he planted me in
rural Kansas.”Bob was preceded in death by his
parents, his sister Georgeann and husband Jack, and his sister Drusilla and
husband George, and niece Kathy Haworth.&nbsp;
He is survived by his wife Nancy,
son Christopher from Chicago, son Matthew and son-in-law Kevin Thornton of San
Francisco as well as a large, extended loving family and countless
friends.&nbsp; A celebration of life will be at
11:00 am on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church.&nbsp; The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm
until 7:00 on Friday, January 3, 2025 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and
from 10:00 am until service time at the church.&nbsp;
Memorials are suggested to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ellis County,
HaysMed Hospice, or to Great Plains Theatre in Abilene.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Bob may be left
for his family at www.haysmemorial.com

Robert (Bob) Piatt

Eunice Kathryn (Balthazor)
Berland, 99, formerly of Zurich, KS, passed away on December 29, 2024, at Via
Christi Village in Hays, Kansas. She was born on November 25, 1925, in rural
Graham County, Kansas, the third of eight children to Frank and Rosa (Morin)
Balthazor. 

On December 26, 1947, Eunice
married Fred Berland, Jr., and together they were blessed with eight children:
Mark, Kay, Ann, Joan, Carol, Mary, Lois, and Rebecca. Fred passed away in 1962,
leaving Eunice to care for her young family at the age of 36.

Eunice graduated from Palco
High School in 1943 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Nursing Degree from the
Dominican School of Nursing in Wichita, Kansas, in 1946. After their marriage,
Eunice and Fred moved to the farm in Zurich. Later, she moved to Plainville,
where she worked at the Rooks County Health Center, dedicated over 20 years of
service volunteering at Sacred Heart School, and was a member of the Sacred
Heart Church.

Eunice’s life was marked by
her deep faith, devotion to her family, and commitment to serving others. She
will be remembered fondly for her kindness, strength, and compassion.

Eunice is survived by her
children: Kay (Chris) Basgall of Owosso, MI, Ann (Timothy) Zwink of Piedmont,
OK, Mary (Gary) Everett of Wilson, KS, Lois Mason of Ellis, KS and Rebecca
(George) Cobb of Peoria, AZ; siblings, Joyce Wasinger of CO and Opal
Hochandadel of WA; son-in-law, Walt Slingsby of Clay Center, KS; 16
grandchildren: Paul, Matthew and Jacob Basgall, Alex and Jason Zwink, Shon,
Adam and Patrick Slingsby, Kenny, Eric, Lucas and Rachel Everett, and Courtney
Espinoza, Emma Warner and Martin Cobb; and 23 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by
her parents; husband, Fred; son, Rev. Mark Berland; infant daughter, Joan Louis
Berland and daughter, Carol Slingsby; siblings: Lawrence Balthazor, Gilbert
Balthazor, Gladys George, Irma Kirkpatrick (Cecilia), and Louise (Virginia);
son-in-law, Robert Mason; grandchild, Janelle Slingsby and great-grandchild,
Morgan Everett. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will
be held on Thursday, January 2, 2024, at 10AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
Burial will follow at St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery in Zurich. Visitation will be
on Wednesday 5-6PM with a Vigil &amp; Rosary Service at 5PM at the funeral home
in Plainville. &nbsp;

Memorial contributions may be
made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home,
320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67669. 

Online condolences may be left
for the family at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735677756332.jpeg" alt="Eunice Kathryn (Balthazor) Berland" />
 <figcaption>Eunice Kathryn (Balthazor) Berland</figcaption>
 </figure>Eunice Kathryn (Balthazor)
Berland, 99, formerly of Zurich, KS, passed away on December 29, 2024, at Via
Christi Village in Hays, Kansas. She was born on November 25, 1925, in rural
Graham County, Kansas, the third of eight children to Frank and Rosa (Morin)
Balthazor. On December 26, 1947, Eunice
married Fred Berland, Jr., and together they were blessed with eight children:
Mark, Kay, Ann, Joan, Carol, Mary, Lois, and Rebecca. Fred passed away in 1962,
leaving Eunice to care for her young family at the age of 36.Eunice graduated from Palco
High School in 1943 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Nursing Degree from the
Dominican School of Nursing in Wichita, Kansas, in 1946. After their marriage,
Eunice and Fred moved to the farm in Zurich. Later, she moved to Plainville,
where she worked at the Rooks County Health Center, dedicated over 20 years of
service volunteering at Sacred Heart School, and was a member of the Sacred
Heart Church.Eunice’s life was marked by
her deep faith, devotion to her family, and commitment to serving others. She
will be remembered fondly for her kindness, strength, and compassion.Eunice is survived by her
children: Kay (Chris) Basgall of Owosso, MI, Ann (Timothy) Zwink of Piedmont,
OK, Mary (Gary) Everett of Wilson, KS, Lois Mason of Ellis, KS and Rebecca
(George) Cobb of Peoria, AZ; siblings, Joyce Wasinger of CO and Opal
Hochandadel of WA; son-in-law, Walt Slingsby of Clay Center, KS; 16
grandchildren: Paul, Matthew and Jacob Basgall, Alex and Jason Zwink, Shon,
Adam and Patrick Slingsby, Kenny, Eric, Lucas and Rachel Everett, and Courtney
Espinoza, Emma Warner and Martin Cobb; and 23 great-grandchildren.She is preceded in death by
her parents; husband, Fred; son, Rev. Mark Berland; infant daughter, Joan Louis
Berland and daughter, Carol Slingsby; siblings: Lawrence Balthazor, Gilbert
Balthazor, Gladys George, Irma Kirkpatrick (Cecilia), and Louise (Virginia);
son-in-law, Robert Mason; grandchild, Janelle Slingsby and great-grandchild,
Morgan Everett. A Mass of Christian Burial will
be held on Thursday, January 2, 2024, at 10AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
Burial will follow at St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery in Zurich. Visitation will be
on Wednesday 5-6PM with a Vigil &amp; Rosary Service at 5PM at the funeral home
in Plainville. &nbsp;Memorial contributions may be
made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home,
320 SW 2nd St, Plainville, KS 67669. Online condolences may be left
for the family at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

Eunice Kathryn (Balthazor) Berland

Marion M. (Evans) Oetting, 89, of
Concordia, Kansas and formerly of Hays, Kansas, passed away Friday, December
27, 2024 at Sunset Homes of Concordia.

Marion was born March 28, 1935 on
the family farm near Luray, Kansas.&nbsp; She
was the daughter of Jesse A. and Wilma M. (Kornmeyer) Evans.&nbsp; She grew up and attended schools in the Luray
area.&nbsp; She was united in marriage to
Loren H. Oetting on April 29, 1952 in Mansfield, Missouri.&nbsp; This union was blessed with four children;
Jean, Jane, Loren, Jr. and Lyle.

Marion was a wonderful cook,
candy maker and devoted wife and homemaker.&nbsp;
She was always busy and helping others.&nbsp;
She made birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas special with celebrations,
cards and calls.

Left to celebrate her life are
her children, Jean Gibson and husband Terry of Lawton, Oklahoma, Jane Smith and
husband Lee of Concordia, Kansas, and Lyle Oetting and wife Julie of Wichita,
Kansas; sister, Evelyn Aumiller and husband Gary of Lenora, Kansas; brother,
Kenneth Evans and wife Peggy of Kiowa, Kansas; seven grandchildren, 15 great
grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Marion was preceded in death by
her parents; husband, Loren; son, Loren Oetting, Jr.; brother, Benny Evans and
wife Loretta.

Graveside Services will be held
at 2:00 PM, Friday, January 3, 2025 at the Luray City Cemetery in Luray,
Kansas.&nbsp; No visitation being held.&nbsp; Memorials have been established with First
United Methodist Church of Hays or the Luray City Cemetery.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735656174952.jpeg" alt="Marion M. (Evans) Oetting" />
 <figcaption>Marion M. (Evans) Oetting</figcaption>
 </figure>Marion M. (Evans) Oetting, 89, of
Concordia, Kansas and formerly of Hays, Kansas, passed away Friday, December
27, 2024 at Sunset Homes of Concordia.Marion was born March 28, 1935 on
the family farm near Luray, Kansas.&nbsp; She
was the daughter of Jesse A. and Wilma M. (Kornmeyer) Evans.&nbsp; She grew up and attended schools in the Luray
area.&nbsp; She was united in marriage to
Loren H. Oetting on April 29, 1952 in Mansfield, Missouri.&nbsp; This union was blessed with four children;
Jean, Jane, Loren, Jr. and Lyle.Marion was a wonderful cook,
candy maker and devoted wife and homemaker.&nbsp;
She was always busy and helping others.&nbsp;
She made birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas special with celebrations,
cards and calls.Left to celebrate her life are
her children, Jean Gibson and husband Terry of Lawton, Oklahoma, Jane Smith and
husband Lee of Concordia, Kansas, and Lyle Oetting and wife Julie of Wichita,
Kansas; sister, Evelyn Aumiller and husband Gary of Lenora, Kansas; brother,
Kenneth Evans and wife Peggy of Kiowa, Kansas; seven grandchildren, 15 great
grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.Marion was preceded in death by
her parents; husband, Loren; son, Loren Oetting, Jr.; brother, Benny Evans and
wife Loretta.Graveside Services will be held
at 2:00 PM, Friday, January 3, 2025 at the Luray City Cemetery in Luray,
Kansas.&nbsp; No visitation being held.&nbsp; Memorials have been established with First
United Methodist Church of Hays or the Luray City Cemetery.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Marion M. (Evans) Oetting

Randall Dean “Randy” Major, 66, Hays, died Saturday,
December 28, 2024 at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice at Via Christi St. Francis,
Wichita.

He was born January 20, 1958 in Ulysses, the son of Darrell
Dean and Alyne (Krause) Major.&nbsp; Randy graduated from Ulysses High School
in 1977, Northwest Kansas Area Vocational Technical School in 1979, and Liberal
Area Vocational Technical School in 1980.&nbsp; On March 1, 1980 he was united
in marriage to Vernell Marie Adams at Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in
Ulysses, and they celebrated 44 years of marriage.&nbsp; Randy was a member of
St. Joseph Catholic Church, St. Joseph Knights of Columbus Council #1325, and a
volunteer firefighter for 14 years in Ulysses, including being Assistant Fire
Chief.&nbsp; He worked for Panhandle Eastern and Mobil in the natural gas
fields, was a copy repair technician at Tri-Central Office Supply for nearly 20
years, and most recently worked for Agiliti.&nbsp; Randy enjoyed hunting at his
family farm in Dorrance and taking family vacations to Colorado, where he
especially loved fishing in the streams and snow skiing.

Survivors include his wife Vernell of Hays, two daughters,
Natalie Brown and husband Matt of Hays and their children A.J., Avery, and
Nicholas, and Raynell Carpenter and husband Aaron of Norton and their children
Mayme, Cora, Maggie, Luke, and Lucy, a son, Brenton Major and wife Kelly of
Hays and their children Samuel and Hadley, his mother, Alyne Krause Major
Strube of Choctaw, OK, and two sisters, Terry Johnson of Choctaw, OK and LeAnna
Larson and husband Chris of Newcastle, OK.

He was preceded in death by his father, his step-father,
Donald Strube, his mother-in-law, JoAnn Adams, and a sister, Sheryl Ann Major.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Thursday,
January 2, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with Fr. Fred Gatschet
officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery,
Hays.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Wednesday and from
9:00 am until 9:45 on Thursday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;
A vigil service and a Knights of Columbus rosary will be at 6:00 pm on
Wednesday at the funeral home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph Church.&nbsp;
Condolences and memories of Randy may be shared with his family at
www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735571735714.jpeg" alt="Randall Dean 'Randy' Major" />
 <figcaption>Randall Dean 'Randy' Major</figcaption>
 </figure>Randall Dean “Randy” Major, 66, Hays, died Saturday,
December 28, 2024 at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice at Via Christi St. Francis,
Wichita.He was born January 20, 1958 in Ulysses, the son of Darrell
Dean and Alyne (Krause) Major.&nbsp; Randy graduated from Ulysses High School
in 1977, Northwest Kansas Area Vocational Technical School in 1979, and Liberal
Area Vocational Technical School in 1980.&nbsp; On March 1, 1980 he was united
in marriage to Vernell Marie Adams at Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in
Ulysses, and they celebrated 44 years of marriage.&nbsp; Randy was a member of
St. Joseph Catholic Church, St. Joseph Knights of Columbus Council #1325, and a
volunteer firefighter for 14 years in Ulysses, including being Assistant Fire
Chief.&nbsp; He worked for Panhandle Eastern and Mobil in the natural gas
fields, was a copy repair technician at Tri-Central Office Supply for nearly 20
years, and most recently worked for Agiliti.&nbsp; Randy enjoyed hunting at his
family farm in Dorrance and taking family vacations to Colorado, where he
especially loved fishing in the streams and snow skiing.Survivors include his wife Vernell of Hays, two daughters,
Natalie Brown and husband Matt of Hays and their children A.J., Avery, and
Nicholas, and Raynell Carpenter and husband Aaron of Norton and their children
Mayme, Cora, Maggie, Luke, and Lucy, a son, Brenton Major and wife Kelly of
Hays and their children Samuel and Hadley, his mother, Alyne Krause Major
Strube of Choctaw, OK, and two sisters, Terry Johnson of Choctaw, OK and LeAnna
Larson and husband Chris of Newcastle, OK.He was preceded in death by his father, his step-father,
Donald Strube, his mother-in-law, JoAnn Adams, and a sister, Sheryl Ann Major.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Thursday,
January 2, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with Fr. Fred Gatschet
officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery,
Hays.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Wednesday and from
9:00 am until 9:45 on Thursday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;
A vigil service and a Knights of Columbus rosary will be at 6:00 pm on
Wednesday at the funeral home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph Church.&nbsp;
Condolences and memories of Randy may be shared with his family at
www.haysmemorial.com

Randall Dean 'Randy' Major

Larry Naylor, 76, of
Independence, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at the
Villages of Jackson Creek in Independence.

Larry was born June 10, 1948 in Russell, Kansas.  He was the son of Alfred W. and Ruby A. (Clark) Naylor.  He grew up in Natoma, Kansas and graduated from the Natoma High School in the Class of 66.

Larry served his country in the
U.S. Air Force for over 22 years.&nbsp;&nbsp; When
he retired from the military, he was a Master Sargent.

Larry was a Blacksmith by trade
and talent.&nbsp; He enjoyed fishing, putting
together models and especially taking trips to visit his daughters and
grandkids.

Larry’s surviving family include
his two daughters, Tamara Lakes (Curtis) of Connersville, Indiana, and Tanya
Pavlu (Ashley) of Blue Springs, Missouri; sisters, Freda Bauer of San Diego,
California, Rosalie Schmidtberger of Marion, Kansas, and Joan Hale (Alan) of
Norton, Kansas; foster-brothers, Larry Hackerott of Hays, Kansas, and Roger
Hackerott (Glenna) of Russell, Kansas; foster-sisters, Roberta Ptaschek and
Mary Casey of Natoma, Kansas; four grandchildren, Nicolle Crowley (Charles),
Damion McVey, Garriston McBee (Christian) and Avery Pavlu; three great
grandchildren, Donte Crowley, Taevinn Crowley and Eva Crowley; and many nieces,
nephews and cousins.

Celebration of Larry’s Life will
be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler
Mortuary of Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow
at the Natoma City Cemetery where Military Rites will be conducted by the
Russell VFW Honor Guard.&nbsp; Visitation will
be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Friday, January 3, 2025 at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, the family will be present to greet friends
from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; A Memorial has
been established with Natoma City Park.&nbsp;
Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler
Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735581469982.jpeg" alt="Larry Naylor" />
 <figcaption>Larry Naylor</figcaption>
 </figure>Larry Naylor, 76, of
Independence, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at the
Villages of Jackson Creek in Independence.Larry was born June 10, 1948 in Russell, Kansas. He was the son of Alfred W. and Ruby A. (Clark) Naylor. He grew up in Natoma, Kansas and graduated from the Natoma High School in the Class of 66.Larry served his country in the
U.S. Air Force for over 22 years.&nbsp;&nbsp; When
he retired from the military, he was a Master Sargent.Larry was a Blacksmith by trade
and talent.&nbsp; He enjoyed fishing, putting
together models and especially taking trips to visit his daughters and
grandkids.Larry’s surviving family include
his two daughters, Tamara Lakes (Curtis) of Connersville, Indiana, and Tanya
Pavlu (Ashley) of Blue Springs, Missouri; sisters, Freda Bauer of San Diego,
California, Rosalie Schmidtberger of Marion, Kansas, and Joan Hale (Alan) of
Norton, Kansas; foster-brothers, Larry Hackerott of Hays, Kansas, and Roger
Hackerott (Glenna) of Russell, Kansas; foster-sisters, Roberta Ptaschek and
Mary Casey of Natoma, Kansas; four grandchildren, Nicolle Crowley (Charles),
Damion McVey, Garriston McBee (Christian) and Avery Pavlu; three great
grandchildren, Donte Crowley, Taevinn Crowley and Eva Crowley; and many nieces,
nephews and cousins.Celebration of Larry’s Life will
be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler
Mortuary of Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow
at the Natoma City Cemetery where Military Rites will be conducted by the
Russell VFW Honor Guard.&nbsp; Visitation will
be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Friday, January 3, 2025 at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, the family will be present to greet friends
from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; A Memorial has
been established with Natoma City Park.&nbsp;
Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler
Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Larry Naylor

Paula Lou
Stevenson, Gove, KS, was born August 28, 1955, in Oakley, KS.&nbsp; Her Lord and Savior received her into His
presence December 28, 2024.

Paula’s
parents were Jack Stevenson and Betty Amos.&nbsp;
She had 3 brothers and one sister.

Paula was
united in marriage to Philip Beesley March 22, 1980.&nbsp; Born to this union was Heath (Maggie)
Beesley, Clarksville, Tennessee; Landon (Shannon) Beesley, Collyer; Larissa
(Thomas) Edwards, Gove; Tyrel (Jerri) Beesley, Healy; Charis (Jonathan)
Philpott, Windsor, Co.; Elannah (Ethan) Kwon, Burleson, TX.; and Valerie
Beesley, Oakley.&nbsp; Presently 17
grandchildren.

Paula
graduated from Oakley HS and Colby Community College with a degree in cow/calf
management.&nbsp; She worked for her dad
before marriage and then helped Phil when needed on the farm.&nbsp; 

Her love was
devoted to her children and grandchildren. She spent a total of 30 years as a
homeschool teacher for her children. Throughout this time, she was deeply
involved in the local homeschool group.

Paula gave
her life to the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior at an early age at a Ford
Philpott crusade.&nbsp; She was a lifelong
member of the Country Chapel, a small country church south of Oakley.&nbsp; She served as a Sunday School teacher, song
leader, Bible study leader, mentor, along with various other services.&nbsp; 

Preceding
Paula was her parents, grandparents, in-laws, and one grandson Aaron Beesley

Paula is
survived by her husband and Children, Grandchildren - Lorcan, Titus, Rhoran
Beesley; Emily, Ethan, Carson Edwards; Ellie, Claire, Marie, Jack and Katherine

Beesley; Michaela, Nathaniel, Amelia, baby Philpot; and Liam Kwon.&nbsp; Three brothers – Monte (Rita) Stevenson, Coal
Creek Canyon, Co.; Lee (Sandy) Stevenson, Longmont, Co.; Todd (Karen)
Stevenson, Oakley; and one sister Susan Stevenson, Wichita.

A memorial
service will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Country
Chapel south of Oakley.&nbsp; 

Memorial
contributions can be made to Country Chapel or Gideons International.&nbsp; Donations can be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home
at 901 South Main, Quinter, Kansas, 67752.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735576022736.jpeg" alt="Paula Lou Stevenson" />
 <figcaption>Paula Lou Stevenson</figcaption>
 </figure>Paula Lou
Stevenson, Gove, KS, was born August 28, 1955, in Oakley, KS.&nbsp; Her Lord and Savior received her into His
presence December 28, 2024.Paula’s
parents were Jack Stevenson and Betty Amos.&nbsp;
She had 3 brothers and one sister.Paula was
united in marriage to Philip Beesley March 22, 1980.&nbsp; Born to this union was Heath (Maggie)
Beesley, Clarksville, Tennessee; Landon (Shannon) Beesley, Collyer; Larissa
(Thomas) Edwards, Gove; Tyrel (Jerri) Beesley, Healy; Charis (Jonathan)
Philpott, Windsor, Co.; Elannah (Ethan) Kwon, Burleson, TX.; and Valerie
Beesley, Oakley.&nbsp; Presently 17
grandchildren.Paula
graduated from Oakley HS and Colby Community College with a degree in cow/calf
management.&nbsp; She worked for her dad
before marriage and then helped Phil when needed on the farm.&nbsp; Her love was
devoted to her children and grandchildren. She spent a total of 30 years as a
homeschool teacher for her children. Throughout this time, she was deeply
involved in the local homeschool group.Paula gave
her life to the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior at an early age at a Ford
Philpott crusade.&nbsp; She was a lifelong
member of the Country Chapel, a small country church south of Oakley.&nbsp; She served as a Sunday School teacher, song
leader, Bible study leader, mentor, along with various other services.&nbsp; Preceding
Paula was her parents, grandparents, in-laws, and one grandson Aaron BeesleyPaula is
survived by her husband and Children, Grandchildren - Lorcan, Titus, Rhoran
Beesley; Emily, Ethan, Carson Edwards; Ellie, Claire, Marie, Jack and Katherine

Beesley; Michaela, Nathaniel, Amelia, baby Philpot; and Liam Kwon.&nbsp; Three brothers – Monte (Rita) Stevenson, Coal
Creek Canyon, Co.; Lee (Sandy) Stevenson, Longmont, Co.; Todd (Karen)
Stevenson, Oakley; and one sister Susan Stevenson, Wichita.A memorial
service will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Country
Chapel south of Oakley.&nbsp; Memorial
contributions can be made to Country Chapel or Gideons International.&nbsp; Donations can be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home
at 901 South Main, Quinter, Kansas, 67752.

Paula Lou Stevenson

Ronnie David Richter, 72, of Plainville, Kansas, passed
away on December 27, 2024, at Redbud Village in Plainville. He was born on
December 30, 1951, to Nathaniel Owen and Helen Louise (Blevins) Blackwell. On
April 15, 1972, he married Kathleen Louise Fabrizius in WaKeeney, Kansas, and
together, they were blessed with two daughters, Rhonda and Nicole.

Ronnie grew up in Midwest City, Oklahoma and earned his GED
in 1973. He then proudly served in the U.S. Marines for four years, and later
worked as a roustabout for Phillips 66 and then Equinox. Ronnie also later
drove truck for various companies and owned and operated a truck of his own for
several years.

A passionate outdoorsman, Ronnie enjoyed hunting, fishing,
and time at the lake with his family. He also loved watching old westerns and
gardening. Ronnie helped his father-in-law on the farm with harvest and chores,
and his dedication to his community extended through his volunteer work as a fireman.

Ronnie is survived by his wife, Kathleen of the home in
Plainville; daughters, Rhonda (John) Dopita of Hays, KS and Nicole (Jerrod)
Pierson of Damar, KS; siblings, James (Jill) Williams of Oklahoma City, OK,
Linda Jackson of New Braunfels, TX and Robert Richter of Moore, OK; six
grandchildren: Nicholas, Noah, Isaac, Eli, Luke and Zachary; three
great-grandchildren: Evelyn, Claire and Luca; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Nathaniel
Blackwell, Jr.; sister-in-law, Diane Richter; brother-in-law, Norm Steepe; and
nephew Steve Jackson.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 3, 2025, at
10AM with visitation 9AM until service time at Zion Lutheran Church - Trego
Center in WaKeeney, KS. Burial will follow in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church
and sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St,
Plainville, KS 67663. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735525698699.jpeg" alt="Ronnie David Richter" />
 <figcaption>Ronnie David Richter</figcaption>
 </figure>Ronnie David Richter, 72, of Plainville, Kansas, passed
away on December 27, 2024, at Redbud Village in Plainville. He was born on
December 30, 1951, to Nathaniel Owen and Helen Louise (Blevins) Blackwell. On
April 15, 1972, he married Kathleen Louise Fabrizius in WaKeeney, Kansas, and
together, they were blessed with two daughters, Rhonda and Nicole.Ronnie grew up in Midwest City, Oklahoma and earned his GED
in 1973. He then proudly served in the U.S. Marines for four years, and later
worked as a roustabout for Phillips 66 and then Equinox. Ronnie also later
drove truck for various companies and owned and operated a truck of his own for
several years.A passionate outdoorsman, Ronnie enjoyed hunting, fishing,
and time at the lake with his family. He also loved watching old westerns and
gardening. Ronnie helped his father-in-law on the farm with harvest and chores,
and his dedication to his community extended through his volunteer work as a fireman.Ronnie is survived by his wife, Kathleen of the home in
Plainville; daughters, Rhonda (John) Dopita of Hays, KS and Nicole (Jerrod)
Pierson of Damar, KS; siblings, James (Jill) Williams of Oklahoma City, OK,
Linda Jackson of New Braunfels, TX and Robert Richter of Moore, OK; six
grandchildren: Nicholas, Noah, Isaac, Eli, Luke and Zachary; three
great-grandchildren: Evelyn, Claire and Luca; and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Nathaniel
Blackwell, Jr.; sister-in-law, Diane Richter; brother-in-law, Norm Steepe; and
nephew Steve Jackson.A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 3, 2025, at
10AM with visitation 9AM until service time at Zion Lutheran Church - Trego
Center in WaKeeney, KS. Burial will follow in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery.Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church
and sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St,
Plainville, KS 67663. Online condolences may be left for the family at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>&nbsp;

Ronnie David Richter

Stanley 'Stan' James
Simon, 68, of Plainville, Kansas, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, Jesus’
earthly birthday, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by
the care and comfort of his family at Rooks County Health Center.

Stan was born on
November 10, 1956, in Plainville to James W. and Lola M. (Nickles) Simon. He
grew up in the close-knit community of Zurich and graduated from Palco High
School in 1974. He went on to study at Manhattan Technical College, paving the
way for a long and dedicated career as a natural gas serviceman starting with
KN Energy and then Midwest Energy.

On September 23, 1978,
Stan married the love of his life, Maria Karns, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church
in Plainville, where he remained a devoted member. Together, they built a
beautiful life filled with love and faith, raising three sons: Phil, Mark, and
Andy.

Stan embraced life with
enthusiasm and filled his days with hobbies and activities that brought him and
those around him immense joy. A passionate outdoorsman, he found peace and adventure
in hunting, fishing, and camping—cherishing annual fishing trips to South
Dakota with his boys. He was also a talented craftsman, enjoying woodworking,
taxidermy, and gardening. Whether he was caring for wildlife, sharing laughter
at a blackjack table, or savoring his favorite honey bun, Stan’s zest for life
was contagious.

Stan shared a special
bond with his beloved hunting dogs, who were more than companions; they were
trusted partners and cherished members of the family. Louie, Jodi 1 and 2,
Schyler, Dixie, Sammi, Maggie, and Sammy brought him endless joy and enriched
his life through countless adventures in the fields and woods. Their loyalty
and companionship were a constant source of happiness for Stan.

Above all, Stan was a
devoted husband, father, and grandfather who left a legacy of love and strength.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him but will live on through the
memories and values he instilled in his family and friends.

Stan is survived by his
beloved wife, Maria, of the home in Plainville; his sons, Phil Simon of Lenexa,
Kansas, Mark Simon of Great Bend, Kansas, and Andy Simon of Manhattan, Kansas; his
sister, Jolene (Rod) McElroy of Wheelersburg, Ohio; his cherished
grandchildren, Sage, Alexis, and Carter Simon; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in
death by his parents, James and Lola Simon, and his brother, Mike Simon.

A Mass of Christian
Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Sacred Heart
Catholic Church in Plainville. Visitation will take place on Sunday, December
29, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Plainville,
followed by a Vigil and Rosary at 6:00 PM.

Memorial contributions
may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or Friends of Webster and sent to
Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd Street, Plainville, KS 67663.

Messages of condolence
for Stan’s family may be shared online at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735518181551.jpeg" alt="Stanley 'Stan' James Simon" />
 <figcaption>Stanley 'Stan' James Simon</figcaption>
 </figure>Stanley 'Stan' James
Simon, 68, of Plainville, Kansas, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, Jesus’
earthly birthday, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by
the care and comfort of his family at Rooks County Health Center.Stan was born on
November 10, 1956, in Plainville to James W. and Lola M. (Nickles) Simon. He
grew up in the close-knit community of Zurich and graduated from Palco High
School in 1974. He went on to study at Manhattan Technical College, paving the
way for a long and dedicated career as a natural gas serviceman starting with
KN Energy and then Midwest Energy.On September 23, 1978,
Stan married the love of his life, Maria Karns, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church
in Plainville, where he remained a devoted member. Together, they built a
beautiful life filled with love and faith, raising three sons: Phil, Mark, and
Andy.Stan embraced life with
enthusiasm and filled his days with hobbies and activities that brought him and
those around him immense joy. A passionate outdoorsman, he found peace and adventure
in hunting, fishing, and camping—cherishing annual fishing trips to South
Dakota with his boys. He was also a talented craftsman, enjoying woodworking,
taxidermy, and gardening. Whether he was caring for wildlife, sharing laughter
at a blackjack table, or savoring his favorite honey bun, Stan’s zest for life
was contagious.Stan shared a special
bond with his beloved hunting dogs, who were more than companions; they were
trusted partners and cherished members of the family. Louie, Jodi 1 and 2,
Schyler, Dixie, Sammi, Maggie, and Sammy brought him endless joy and enriched
his life through countless adventures in the fields and woods. Their loyalty
and companionship were a constant source of happiness for Stan.Above all, Stan was a
devoted husband, father, and grandfather who left a legacy of love and strength.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him but will live on through the
memories and values he instilled in his family and friends.Stan is survived by his
beloved wife, Maria, of the home in Plainville; his sons, Phil Simon of Lenexa,
Kansas, Mark Simon of Great Bend, Kansas, and Andy Simon of Manhattan, Kansas; his
sister, Jolene (Rod) McElroy of Wheelersburg, Ohio; his cherished
grandchildren, Sage, Alexis, and Carter Simon; and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in
death by his parents, James and Lola Simon, and his brother, Mike Simon.A Mass of Christian
Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Sacred Heart
Catholic Church in Plainville. Visitation will take place on Sunday, December
29, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Plainville,
followed by a Vigil and Rosary at 6:00 PM.Memorial contributions
may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or Friends of Webster and sent to
Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd Street, Plainville, KS 67663.Messages of condolence
for Stan’s family may be shared online at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

Stanley 'Stan' James Simon

Frank Henry Gallagher of
Hoxie, Kansas quietly passed away surrounded by his daughters, on Friday,
December 27, 2024, at the Sheridan County Long Term Care, Hoxie, Kansas. Frank
was born at the family farm in Rural Sheridan County on March 10, 1933, to Phil
and Mary (Taylor) Gallagher. Frank attended and graduated from district # 55
Henry School and attended Sheridan County High School for one year. Frank’s
father needed Frank to help on the farm; so, he went to work helping his father.
By the age of 8 Frank had experience pulling the combine with the tractor and
at&nbsp; the age of 13 Frank bought his first
car.&nbsp; The family moved to Hoxie in 1944.

On November 28, 1956, Frank
married the love of his life, Joyce (Jacob) Gallagher. Frank and Joyce were
blessed with a family of six children, Stan, Maryln, David, Leanna, Ladonna,
and Mary. Frank loved his family and was always happy to spend time with them. Frank
always bought his grandkids cowboy boots from Jim Schaffer for double or
nothing at Cooper Dry Goods.

Frank worked hard and held
many jobs. Some of those jobs were pitching thrasher machines for others, at
age 14 worked at the skating rink, worked for Triangle Inn cooking hamburgers,
hauled freight for UPS for 10 years, unloaded boxcars of concrete for Foster
Lumber Yard, farmed, raised cattle and hogs with his dad. In the 60’s he hauled
rock for the elevator and Coop. In the 70s and 80s, Frank worked for the City
of Hoxie. When the City of Hoxie purchased the first trash truck, Frank set up
the schedule and became the first driver. Frank was a city Cop with Millard
Johnson for 2 days a week, Undersheriff for Dee Kratzer for a year, and spy cop
for Jimmy Johnson. Frank retired at the age of 56 years. After retiring Frank
and Joyce traveled all over the United States. For thirty-three years they
spent the winters in the south and the summers in Colorado. He loved to travel
and
visit with friends and family.

Frank worked hard, but he
enjoyed collecting old tractors. The first tractor Frank drove was a new 1944
Minneapolis tractor, and it was the last tractor he sold. Frank was always
willing to help others. If someone needed help moving, he was there to help,
and if someone needed a driver, he was ready and willing to help. Frank was a
member of the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus 3rd
and 4th degree, and a member of the Hoxie Elks Club.

Frank leaves to mourn his
passing, daughters, Leanna Sloan (Tom) of Hoxie,&nbsp; Ladonna Joslyn&nbsp; (Mark) of Hoxie, and Mary Dumler (Alex) of
Hoxie; daughters-in-law, Rosie Gallagher of Holcomb, KS and Bea Albers of Oakley,
Kansas; brothers-in-law, Dale Jacob of Deerfield, KS and Loyal Jacob Jr..of &nbsp;Middleboro, MA; 12 grandchildren and 18
great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by
wife, Joyce Gallagher; parents, Phil and Mary Gallagher; children, Stan
Gallagher, Maryln Roger, and David Gallagher; sister, Emma Helen Ochs; sisters-in-law
Charlene Friedel, Betty Jacob, and Ann Jacob; brothers-in-law, Clare Jacob and
Clem Ochs; and great-grandsons, Dustin Rietcheck and Dalton Garrison. 

A Mass of Christian Burial is
planned for Monday, December 30, 2024, 2:00 PM, at the St. Frances Cabrini
Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas. There will be a private burial at a later date
in the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Cemetery. Visitation at the Mickey-Leopold
Funeral Home, Hoxie, KS, will be held Sunday, December 29, 2024, from 3:00 PM
until 7:00 PM with family receiving friends from 5:30 PM until 7:00 PM. A Vigil
and Rosary Service will be held at 7:00 PM immediately following the Visitation.

Memorials are suggested to
the Sheridan County Benefit Walk or the Long-Term Care Activities. Please make checks payable to the
memorial fund of your choice. Memorials may be sent in the Mickey-Leopold
Funeral Home, PO Box 987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735433937412.jpeg" alt="Frank Henry Gallagher" />
 <figcaption>Frank Henry Gallagher</figcaption>
 </figure>Frank Henry Gallagher of
Hoxie, Kansas quietly passed away surrounded by his daughters, on Friday,
December 27, 2024, at the Sheridan County Long Term Care, Hoxie, Kansas. Frank
was born at the family farm in Rural Sheridan County on March 10, 1933, to Phil
and Mary (Taylor) Gallagher. Frank attended and graduated from district # 55
Henry School and attended Sheridan County High School for one year. Frank’s
father needed Frank to help on the farm; so, he went to work helping his father.
By the age of 8 Frank had experience pulling the combine with the tractor and
at&nbsp; the age of 13 Frank bought his first
car.&nbsp; The family moved to Hoxie in 1944.On November 28, 1956, Frank
married the love of his life, Joyce (Jacob) Gallagher. Frank and Joyce were
blessed with a family of six children, Stan, Maryln, David, Leanna, Ladonna,
and Mary. Frank loved his family and was always happy to spend time with them. Frank
always bought his grandkids cowboy boots from Jim Schaffer for double or
nothing at Cooper Dry Goods.Frank worked hard and held
many jobs. Some of those jobs were pitching thrasher machines for others, at
age 14 worked at the skating rink, worked for Triangle Inn cooking hamburgers,
hauled freight for UPS for 10 years, unloaded boxcars of concrete for Foster
Lumber Yard, farmed, raised cattle and hogs with his dad. In the 60’s he hauled
rock for the elevator and Coop. In the 70s and 80s, Frank worked for the City
of Hoxie. When the City of Hoxie purchased the first trash truck, Frank set up
the schedule and became the first driver. Frank was a city Cop with Millard
Johnson for 2 days a week, Undersheriff for Dee Kratzer for a year, and spy cop
for Jimmy Johnson. Frank retired at the age of 56 years. After retiring Frank
and Joyce traveled all over the United States. For thirty-three years they
spent the winters in the south and the summers in Colorado. He loved to travel
and
visit with friends and family.Frank worked hard, but he
enjoyed collecting old tractors. The first tractor Frank drove was a new 1944
Minneapolis tractor, and it was the last tractor he sold. Frank was always
willing to help others. If someone needed help moving, he was there to help,
and if someone needed a driver, he was ready and willing to help. Frank was a
member of the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus 3rd
and 4th degree, and a member of the Hoxie Elks Club.Frank leaves to mourn his
passing, daughters, Leanna Sloan (Tom) of Hoxie,&nbsp; Ladonna Joslyn&nbsp; (Mark) of Hoxie, and Mary Dumler (Alex) of
Hoxie; daughters-in-law, Rosie Gallagher of Holcomb, KS and Bea Albers of Oakley,
Kansas; brothers-in-law, Dale Jacob of Deerfield, KS and Loyal Jacob Jr..of &nbsp;Middleboro, MA; 12 grandchildren and 18
great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.He was preceded in death by
wife, Joyce Gallagher; parents, Phil and Mary Gallagher; children, Stan
Gallagher, Maryln Roger, and David Gallagher; sister, Emma Helen Ochs; sisters-in-law
Charlene Friedel, Betty Jacob, and Ann Jacob; brothers-in-law, Clare Jacob and
Clem Ochs; and great-grandsons, Dustin Rietcheck and Dalton Garrison. A Mass of Christian Burial is
planned for Monday, December 30, 2024, 2:00 PM, at the St. Frances Cabrini
Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas. There will be a private burial at a later date
in the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Cemetery. Visitation at the Mickey-Leopold
Funeral Home, Hoxie, KS, will be held Sunday, December 29, 2024, from 3:00 PM
until 7:00 PM with family receiving friends from 5:30 PM until 7:00 PM. A Vigil
and Rosary Service will be held at 7:00 PM immediately following the Visitation.Memorials are suggested to
the Sheridan County Benefit Walk or the Long-Term Care Activities. Please make checks payable to the
memorial fund of your choice. Memorials may be sent in the Mickey-Leopold
Funeral Home, PO Box 987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740.

Frank Henry Gallagher

Ernest James
Leiker (Ernie), 89, of Aurora, Colorado, passed away on December 24, 2024. 

He was born on
December 2, 1935 in Hays, Kansas to Jacob and Anna Leiker. He was a middle
sibling with an older brother, Herb; an older sister, Marietta; and a younger
sister, Darlene. While growing up and attending school at St. Joseph Military
School in Hays, he enjoyed sports such as baseball and boxing. After high
school he enlisted in the United States Army and served for two years. 

After serving
in the Army, he attended Ft. Hays State College. Around this time, he met and
married Glenna Ochs of Bison, Kansas. The two moved to Colorado with a group of
friends and set up their home in Denver.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Ernie and
Glenna had three children: Steve, born in 1960; Marilyn, born in 1964; and
Kevin, born in 1967. A fourth child, Bruce, was born in 1963; Bruce died of
natural causes shortly after birth.&nbsp; 

Ernie enjoyed a
25-year career with Montgomery Wards as a store and regional manager. His
positions took him and the family to many places to live, including Grand
Junction, Colorado; Cheyenne, Wyoming; and Kansas City, Missouri. While proud
of his career, Ernie was most proud of the fact that he put all three of his
children through college, with Steve and Kevin graduating from University of
Northern Colorado and Marilyn graduating from University of Colorado. 

Ernie was an
avid traveler and was able to visit all 50 U.S. states. In addition, he was
able to see many countries, taking numerous cruises over the years. 

Ernie is
survived by his wife, Glenna Leiker; and children Steve Leiker (Lynnette);
Marilyn Katopodes (Jerry); and Kevin Leiker (Holly). He is also survived by three
grandchildren: Kaitlyn Leiker; Jacob Brock Leiker; and Delaney Katopodes. 

A Funeral Mass
and Memorial will take place on Monday, December 30 at 1 pm at Garden Plaza of
Aurora Senior Living and Care Community. Interment/Graveside Service will be at
11:30 am on Friday, January 3 at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735399457090.jpeg" alt="Ernest James Leiker (Ernie)" />
 <figcaption>Ernest James Leiker (Ernie)</figcaption>
 </figure>Ernest James
Leiker (Ernie), 89, of Aurora, Colorado, passed away on December 24, 2024. He was born on
December 2, 1935 in Hays, Kansas to Jacob and Anna Leiker. He was a middle
sibling with an older brother, Herb; an older sister, Marietta; and a younger
sister, Darlene. While growing up and attending school at St. Joseph Military
School in Hays, he enjoyed sports such as baseball and boxing. After high
school he enlisted in the United States Army and served for two years. After serving
in the Army, he attended Ft. Hays State College. Around this time, he met and
married Glenna Ochs of Bison, Kansas. The two moved to Colorado with a group of
friends and set up their home in Denver.&nbsp;
&nbsp;Ernie and
Glenna had three children: Steve, born in 1960; Marilyn, born in 1964; and
Kevin, born in 1967. A fourth child, Bruce, was born in 1963; Bruce died of
natural causes shortly after birth.&nbsp; Ernie enjoyed a
25-year career with Montgomery Wards as a store and regional manager. His
positions took him and the family to many places to live, including Grand
Junction, Colorado; Cheyenne, Wyoming; and Kansas City, Missouri. While proud
of his career, Ernie was most proud of the fact that he put all three of his
children through college, with Steve and Kevin graduating from University of
Northern Colorado and Marilyn graduating from University of Colorado. Ernie was an
avid traveler and was able to visit all 50 U.S. states. In addition, he was
able to see many countries, taking numerous cruises over the years. Ernie is
survived by his wife, Glenna Leiker; and children Steve Leiker (Lynnette);
Marilyn Katopodes (Jerry); and Kevin Leiker (Holly). He is also survived by three
grandchildren: Kaitlyn Leiker; Jacob Brock Leiker; and Delaney Katopodes. A Funeral Mass
and Memorial will take place on Monday, December 30 at 1 pm at Garden Plaza of
Aurora Senior Living and Care Community. Interment/Graveside Service will be at
11:30 am on Friday, January 3 at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver.

Ernest James Leiker (Ernie)

Mark Donavon Cooper, 65, of Hays, Kansas,
passed away at home on December 26th, 2024, after a courageous, two-and-a-half-year
battle with cancer.

Born in Anthony KS, on March 7, 1959, the son
of Gary and Lois (Daughhetee) Cooper. In 1978, he graduated from St. Francis
Community High School. He was married November 10, 1979, to Toby (Dirks)
Cooper. To this union a son Wesley Don and two daughters Kelsey Ann and Mindy
Louise made their family complete. He worked as an automotive service-tech
before owning his own business, St. Francis Tire in 1993. He retired from the
family business in 2021.

Mark was quiet, kind-hearted and talented. When
not working, you could find him in the garage tinkering with his cars or other
projects. His hobby and love of muscle cars was shared between his children and
grandchildren. He enjoyed spending time with his dog Lulu and was always up for
an adventure with the grandkids. &nbsp;

He is preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law
Tobias Dirks, three nephews, John and Carl Keller, Ty Hardwick and his daughter
Kelsey Cooper.

Mark is survived by his wife, Toby of the home;
son Wesley (Candice) Cooper of Leoti, daughter Mindy (Dustin) Kuhn of Hays; grandchildren
Kasen and Kaycee Kuhn, Chloe and Radley Cooper; sister Ronda Loven; sister-in-law’s,
Gwen (Mark) Keller, Gail (Bernie) Stoltmann; brother-in-law, Max (Irene) Dirks;
mother-in-law Annetta Dirks; other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 am
on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Peace Lutheran Church, 202 North College Street
in St. Francis, Kansas with Pastor Luke Emerson officiating. In lieu of
flowers, memorials are suggested to Forever in Blue Jeans or Hays Hospice.
Services are in the care of Knodel Funeral Home.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735335867353.jpeg" alt="Mark Donavon Cooper" />
 <figcaption>Mark Donavon Cooper</figcaption>
 </figure>Mark Donavon Cooper, 65, of Hays, Kansas,
passed away at home on December 26th, 2024, after a courageous, two-and-a-half-year
battle with cancer.Born in Anthony KS, on March 7, 1959, the son
of Gary and Lois (Daughhetee) Cooper. In 1978, he graduated from St. Francis
Community High School. He was married November 10, 1979, to Toby (Dirks)
Cooper. To this union a son Wesley Don and two daughters Kelsey Ann and Mindy
Louise made their family complete. He worked as an automotive service-tech
before owning his own business, St. Francis Tire in 1993. He retired from the
family business in 2021.Mark was quiet, kind-hearted and talented. When
not working, you could find him in the garage tinkering with his cars or other
projects. His hobby and love of muscle cars was shared between his children and
grandchildren. He enjoyed spending time with his dog Lulu and was always up for
an adventure with the grandkids. &nbsp;He is preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law
Tobias Dirks, three nephews, John and Carl Keller, Ty Hardwick and his daughter
Kelsey Cooper.Mark is survived by his wife, Toby of the home;
son Wesley (Candice) Cooper of Leoti, daughter Mindy (Dustin) Kuhn of Hays; grandchildren
Kasen and Kaycee Kuhn, Chloe and Radley Cooper; sister Ronda Loven; sister-in-law’s,
Gwen (Mark) Keller, Gail (Bernie) Stoltmann; brother-in-law, Max (Irene) Dirks;
mother-in-law Annetta Dirks; other relatives and many friends.Funeral services will be at 10:30 am
on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Peace Lutheran Church, 202 North College Street
in St. Francis, Kansas with Pastor Luke Emerson officiating. In lieu of
flowers, memorials are suggested to Forever in Blue Jeans or Hays Hospice.
Services are in the care of Knodel Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Mark Donavon Cooper

Richard J. 'Rick&nbsp; Zakrzewski, 84, Hays, died Tuesday,
December 24, 2024 at Hays Good Samaritan Society.

He was born November 5, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan, the son
of Gerald and Helen Zakrzewski.&nbsp; He
attended Catholic elementary military school where he learned to eat slowly and
avoid tapioca pudding.&nbsp; In 1959, he
graduated from St. Hedwig High School, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in
geology from Wayne State University in 1963, and a Master’s Degree and PhD from
the University of Michigan in 1968.&nbsp; In
1969, he joined the Department of Geosciences at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; Rick was united in marriage to Martha Verklan
on August 13, 1966 in Dearborn, Michigan, and they celebrated 58 years of
marriage.&nbsp; During his tenure at FHSU, Dr.
Z, as his students fondly called him, published more than 65 papers as
professor of geosciences and served as chief curator of the Sternberg
Museum.&nbsp; He directed more than 30 master’s
theses and served on 76 thesis committees.&nbsp;
In 2008, he was awarded the Graduate School Lifetime Achievement Award
in addition to the Outstanding Thesis Field Study Adviser Award. 

Survivors include his wife Martha of Hays, his son, Mark
Zakrzewski and wife Randi of San Diego, CA, his daughter, Andrea Stokoe and
husband Steve of Eagle, Idaho, and six grandchildren, Alexandra, Lauren,
Caroline, Jacob, Colton, and Maverick.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:00 pm on Saturday,
January 4, 2025 at the Comeau Catholic Campus Center with Fr. Curtis Carlson,
OFMCap. officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be
at a later date in Hagerman, Idaho.&nbsp;
Memorials are suggested to the Department of Geosciences at FHSU or to
Sternberg Museum.&nbsp; Services are in the
care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Rick
may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735226080138.jpeg" alt="Richard J. 'Rick Zakrzewski" />
 <figcaption>Richard J. 'Rick Zakrzewski</figcaption>
 </figure>Richard J. 'Rick&nbsp; Zakrzewski, 84, Hays, died Tuesday,
December 24, 2024 at Hays Good Samaritan Society.He was born November 5, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan, the son
of Gerald and Helen Zakrzewski.&nbsp; He
attended Catholic elementary military school where he learned to eat slowly and
avoid tapioca pudding.&nbsp; In 1959, he
graduated from St. Hedwig High School, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in
geology from Wayne State University in 1963, and a Master’s Degree and PhD from
the University of Michigan in 1968.&nbsp; In
1969, he joined the Department of Geosciences at Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; Rick was united in marriage to Martha Verklan
on August 13, 1966 in Dearborn, Michigan, and they celebrated 58 years of
marriage.&nbsp; During his tenure at FHSU, Dr.
Z, as his students fondly called him, published more than 65 papers as
professor of geosciences and served as chief curator of the Sternberg
Museum.&nbsp; He directed more than 30 master’s
theses and served on 76 thesis committees.&nbsp;
In 2008, he was awarded the Graduate School Lifetime Achievement Award
in addition to the Outstanding Thesis Field Study Adviser Award. Survivors include his wife Martha of Hays, his son, Mark
Zakrzewski and wife Randi of San Diego, CA, his daughter, Andrea Stokoe and
husband Steve of Eagle, Idaho, and six grandchildren, Alexandra, Lauren,
Caroline, Jacob, Colton, and Maverick.He was preceded in death by his parents.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:00 pm on Saturday,
January 4, 2025 at the Comeau Catholic Campus Center with Fr. Curtis Carlson,
OFMCap. officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be
at a later date in Hagerman, Idaho.&nbsp;
Memorials are suggested to the Department of Geosciences at FHSU or to
Sternberg Museum.&nbsp; Services are in the
care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Rick
may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Richard J. 'Rick  Zakrzewski

Richard
W. "Rich" Schaus, age 80, of rural Ellis, Kansas, a dedicated
lifelong farmer and longtime dairyman, passed away on December 21, 2024, at the
Salina Regional Health Center. He was born on June 10, 1944, in Hays, Kansas to
Edgar and Martha (Yantz) Schaus.



From an early age, Rich exhibited a commitment to his family and community. He
married his sweetheart, Claudia Laeree (Deutscher), on August 26, 1961 at
Christ Lutheran Church when he was just 17 and she barely 16. Their union,
which blossomed into a loving partnership lasting over 63 years, was
characterized by shared dreams, hard work, and unwavering support for one
another. After graduating from Trego Community High School and marriage he
attended Kansas State University. Rich and Claudia returned to the farmstead,
where he began his lifelong journey as a farmer and dairyman for more than 40
years.



Rich was not just a farmer; he was a part of the Ellis, Kansas and Trego County
communities. His numerous contributions included serving as a long-time member
and board member of Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis, where he was deeply
involved in church activities. He was a leader in many organizations, including
the REC, now Western COOP Electric Board for 50 years, the Trego County Rural
Fire Department, USDA, Trego County Rural Water District, Sunflower Electric,
and the Ellis Jr. Free Fair. 



Rich is remembered not only for his work ethic but also for his proudest
accomplishments: his family, community service, and his beloved farm. He leaves
behind his wife Claudia, son Stacy Schaus and his wife Danielle of Ellis, along
with their children Cora and Khianne Schaus, Maddy, Hunter, and Lona Guffey. He
is also survived by his daughter Julia Schaus-Brown and Darrin Wolf of Ellis,
and her children, Patrick Brown and Peyton Brown, along with Peyton’s children
Emma and Elijah Raat; two sisters, Marilyn Hersh of Nebraska, and Rita Sussman
and her husband Robert of Colorado.



Rich is preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Ozwald and Elizabeth
Deutscher brother-in-law James Hersh; sister-in-law, Caren Bates and husband
Robert; and a nephew, Trent Bates.



Funeral services will be Friday, December 27, 2024, at 2:00 PM. at Christ
Lutheran Church, 106 East 8th Street, Ellis. Burial will follow in Mt. Hope
Cemetery, Ellis.



Visitation will be Thursday 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. and Friday 12:30 PM until
service time all at the church.

 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Christ Lutheran Church or Trego County
Rural Fire Department.


Please share memories and words of comfort on Rich’s tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 E. 17th street, Ellis, KS
67637.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734993279702.jpeg" alt="Richard W. 'Rich' Schaus" />
 <figcaption>Richard W. 'Rich' Schaus</figcaption>
 </figure>Richard
W. "Rich" Schaus, age 80, of rural Ellis, Kansas, a dedicated
lifelong farmer and longtime dairyman, passed away on December 21, 2024, at the
Salina Regional Health Center. He was born on June 10, 1944, in Hays, Kansas to
Edgar and Martha (Yantz) Schaus.

From an early age, Rich exhibited a commitment to his family and community. He
married his sweetheart, Claudia Laeree (Deutscher), on August 26, 1961 at
Christ Lutheran Church when he was just 17 and she barely 16. Their union,
which blossomed into a loving partnership lasting over 63 years, was
characterized by shared dreams, hard work, and unwavering support for one
another. After graduating from Trego Community High School and marriage he
attended Kansas State University. Rich and Claudia returned to the farmstead,
where he began his lifelong journey as a farmer and dairyman for more than 40
years.

Rich was not just a farmer; he was a part of the Ellis, Kansas and Trego County
communities. His numerous contributions included serving as a long-time member
and board member of Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis, where he was deeply
involved in church activities. He was a leader in many organizations, including
the REC, now Western COOP Electric Board for 50 years, the Trego County Rural
Fire Department, USDA, Trego County Rural Water District, Sunflower Electric,
and the Ellis Jr. Free Fair. 

Rich is remembered not only for his work ethic but also for his proudest
accomplishments: his family, community service, and his beloved farm. He leaves
behind his wife Claudia, son Stacy Schaus and his wife Danielle of Ellis, along
with their children Cora and Khianne Schaus, Maddy, Hunter, and Lona Guffey. He
is also survived by his daughter Julia Schaus-Brown and Darrin Wolf of Ellis,
and her children, Patrick Brown and Peyton Brown, along with Peyton’s children
Emma and Elijah Raat; two sisters, Marilyn Hersh of Nebraska, and Rita Sussman
and her husband Robert of Colorado.

Rich is preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Ozwald and Elizabeth
Deutscher brother-in-law James Hersh; sister-in-law, Caren Bates and husband
Robert; and a nephew, Trent Bates.

Funeral services will be Friday, December 27, 2024, at 2:00 PM. at Christ
Lutheran Church, 106 East 8th Street, Ellis. Burial will follow in Mt. Hope
Cemetery, Ellis.

Visitation will be Thursday 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. and Friday 12:30 PM until
service time all at the church. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Christ Lutheran Church or Trego County
Rural Fire Department.

Please share memories and words of comfort on Rich’s tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.

Services in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 E. 17th street, Ellis, KS
67637.<figure>
 <img src="file:///C:/Users/SCARLE~1/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Richard W. 'Rich' Schaus

Alvin
Joseph Denning, 95, passed away peacefully Saturday morning in the comfort of
his home and the company of his family. Anyone who knew Al could tell you that
was the only way he was ever going to leave the “farm” west of Hays, where he
and his departed wife, Aletha, built their home over 40 years ago.



Born in Hays in 1929, Al was the oldest of seven children of Alois and Barbara
(Dinkel) Denning. He spent his childhood working on the family dairy farm and
graduated from Hays High in 1947. He married his sweetheart, Aletha Unrein, in
1950. Al then took on a variety of hard-working jobs, from the oil fields to
the quarry to driving trucks, before spending over two decades working at the
Hays Post Office. 



During that time, Al and Aletha raised seven children together, with their
births spanned over 20 years. A man of his generation, Al parented by example,
teaching his kids the value of hard work, honesty, humility, kindness to
strangers, and taking no shortcuts. He volunteered with the kids’ 4-H clubs, was
a fixture at local farmers markets and small-animal auctions, and enjoyed
driving his pickup through the countryside, noting the level of Big Creek
(always low), pointing out a pretty landscape, stopping to gather a sweet
wildflower for Aletha, or suggesting that so-and-so better get that alfalfa
baled before it rains.



Since retiring thirty years ago, Al almost never spent a night away from the
farm (“Who would collect the eggs?”) and during daylight hours could usually be
found outdoors. He had a green thumb, and every spring he would plant an
acre-sized garden full of every vegetable he could coax to sprout. He raised
all kinds of birds, too, including chickens, doves, quail, guineas, and
peacocks, along with rabbits and the occasional sheep or miniature donkey. He
loved the sun on his back, the feel of a shovel handle in his hands, and a cold
slurp of water from the hose. He valued trees and strategically planted
hundreds of them on his farm to block the wind, shade the yard, provide fruit,
and add habitats for wildlife. And he really loved when folks would see the
Fresh Eggs sign on the highway and stop in to visit. “Let me show you
something,” he’d say to the kids, before leading them to peek at chicks
hatching in the incubator or the biggest squash you’ve ever seen growing in the
garden. Al liked pearl snap shirts, Louis L’Amour novels, Canadian whiskey,
Johnny Cash songs, and Jimmy Dean breakfast sandwiches.

 

But above all, Al’s pride and joy was his large and loving family, which
remains tight knit to this day, despite being spread out geographically. At
reunions, surrounded by 75 or 80 family members, Al would beam at Aletha, “Look
at what we did! My goodness, look at what we did.” Indeed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734980167386.png" alt="Alvin Joseph Denning" />
 <figcaption>Alvin Joseph Denning</figcaption>
 </figure>Alvin
Joseph Denning, 95, passed away peacefully Saturday morning in the comfort of
his home and the company of his family. Anyone who knew Al could tell you that
was the only way he was ever going to leave the “farm” west of Hays, where he
and his departed wife, Aletha, built their home over 40 years ago.

Born in Hays in 1929, Al was the oldest of seven children of Alois and Barbara
(Dinkel) Denning. He spent his childhood working on the family dairy farm and
graduated from Hays High in 1947. He married his sweetheart, Aletha Unrein, in
1950. Al then took on a variety of hard-working jobs, from the oil fields to
the quarry to driving trucks, before spending over two decades working at the
Hays Post Office. 

During that time, Al and Aletha raised seven children together, with their
births spanned over 20 years. A man of his generation, Al parented by example,
teaching his kids the value of hard work, honesty, humility, kindness to
strangers, and taking no shortcuts. He volunteered with the kids’ 4-H clubs, was
a fixture at local farmers markets and small-animal auctions, and enjoyed
driving his pickup through the countryside, noting the level of Big Creek
(always low), pointing out a pretty landscape, stopping to gather a sweet
wildflower for Aletha, or suggesting that so-and-so better get that alfalfa
baled before it rains.

Since retiring thirty years ago, Al almost never spent a night away from the
farm (“Who would collect the eggs?”) and during daylight hours could usually be
found outdoors. He had a green thumb, and every spring he would plant an
acre-sized garden full of every vegetable he could coax to sprout. He raised
all kinds of birds, too, including chickens, doves, quail, guineas, and
peacocks, along with rabbits and the occasional sheep or miniature donkey. He
loved the sun on his back, the feel of a shovel handle in his hands, and a cold
slurp of water from the hose. He valued trees and strategically planted
hundreds of them on his farm to block the wind, shade the yard, provide fruit,
and add habitats for wildlife. And he really loved when folks would see the
Fresh Eggs sign on the highway and stop in to visit. “Let me show you
something,” he’d say to the kids, before leading them to peek at chicks
hatching in the incubator or the biggest squash you’ve ever seen growing in the
garden. Al liked pearl snap shirts, Louis L’Amour novels, Canadian whiskey,
Johnny Cash songs, and Jimmy Dean breakfast sandwiches. 

But above all, Al’s pride and joy was his large and loving family, which
remains tight knit to this day, despite being spread out geographically. At
reunions, surrounded by 75 or 80 family members, Al would beam at Aletha, “Look
at what we did! My goodness, look at what we did.” Indeed.Al is reunited in death with his wife of 71 years, Aletha (2021), his middle
child Greg (2008), his parents, two brothers (Lester and Kenny), and two
sisters (Dolores Frank and Edna Gustus Hunt). 

Al is survived by six children—Tom Denning (Deb) in Hays, Judy Evans (Bob) in
Indiana, Margie Hammerschmidt (Elden) in Hays, Dan Denning (Cheryl) in
Herington, Kathy Banks (Duane) in Russell, and Roger Denning (Michele) in San
Diego—along with his brother, Larry Denning, and sister, Rita Werth Smith. His
legacy also includes 21 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren, and 2
great-great-grandchildren.

A funeral Mass will be held at 2pm Thursday, December 26, at St. Joseph
Catholic Church in Hays. The Mass will be preceded by a memorial visitation at
the church from 1:00pm to 2pm. Inurnment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the 4-H Youth Development, Ellis
County. Contributions made payable to the organization may be sent in care of
Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601. 

Condolences may be sent to the family on Al’s tribute page at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Obituaries