John Steppe Jr. age 83, died January 26, 2022 in Wakefield, KS. He was born May 2, 1938, to John and Margie (Eckel) Steppe, Sr in Clay Center, Kansas. John was raised in the Wakefield community and was a Wakefield High School graduate.&nbsp; He served in the Army National Guard.&nbsp; John farmed near Wakefield his entire life.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents.

Son: Dean and wife Sara Steppe of Wakefield, KS

Sister: Donetta and husband Robert Elkins of Green, KS

Brother: Richard and wife Bonnie Steppe of Wakefield, KS

Funeral Services:&nbsp;no services are planned at this time&nbsp;

John Steppe Jr. age 83, died January 26, 2022 in Wakefield, KS. He was born May 2, 1938, to John and Margie (Eckel) Steppe, Sr in Clay Center, Kansas. John was raised in the Wakefield community and was a Wakefield High School graduate.&nbsp; He served in the Army National Guard.&nbsp; John farmed near Wakefield his entire life.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents.Survivors:Son: Dean and wife Sara Steppe of Wakefield, KS2 Grandchildren, Sage and Wyatt SteppeSister: Donetta and husband Robert Elkins of Green, KSBrother: Richard and wife Bonnie Steppe of Wakefield, KSFuneral Services:&nbsp;no services are planned at this time&nbsp;

John Steppe Jr. 

Vernon Michael Tabor, 63, of Manhattan, died January 26, 2022. Vernon was born on October 6, 1958 in Kansas City, Kansas, the son of Vernon and Blanch Tabor. He studied at the University of Kansas and had a long career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, at the field office in Manhattan. In his retirement Vernon enjoyed traveling, visiting friends and family, and making the most out of life. No one was a stranger to Vernon. He is survived by his children, Thorin Tabor (Alexandra Oleske) of La Jolla, California, and Lisa Tabor of Cedar Falls, Iowa; his sisters, Susan Reitemeier (Ed) of Kansas City, Kansas, and Sandy Tabor (John Ellis) of St. Croix, USVI; his grandson Loki Tabor; and also, his nephew Matthew Reitemeier of Kansas City, Kansas. The family will greet friends during a visitation from 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday February 1, 2022 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan. Private services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Kansas Land Trust. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502&nbsp;&nbsp;

Vernon Michael Tabor, 63, of Manhattan, died January 26, 2022. Vernon was born on October 6, 1958 in Kansas City, Kansas, the son of Vernon and Blanch Tabor. He studied at the University of Kansas and had a long career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, at the field office in Manhattan. In his retirement Vernon enjoyed traveling, visiting friends and family, and making the most out of life. No one was a stranger to Vernon. He is survived by his children, Thorin Tabor (Alexandra Oleske) of La Jolla, California, and Lisa Tabor of Cedar Falls, Iowa; his sisters, Susan Reitemeier (Ed) of Kansas City, Kansas, and Sandy Tabor (John Ellis) of St. Croix, USVI; his grandson Loki Tabor; and also, his nephew Matthew Reitemeier of Kansas City, Kansas. The family will greet friends during a visitation from 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday February 1, 2022 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan. Private services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Kansas Land Trust. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502&nbsp;&nbsp;

Vernon Michael Tabor

Wilma A. Peil, age 91, a Manhattan resident since 1971, died January 27, 2022, at Meadowlark Hills – Wroten House. She was born February 10, 1930, in Hays, Kansas, the daughter of S.P. and Tabea (Deines) Fabrizius. Wilma graduated from WaKeeney High School in 1947 and then from Brown-Mackie College in Business. Wilma returned to WaKeeney after college and worked for Western Cooperative Electric. That’s where she met Bruce B. Peil (of Blue Hill, Nebraska) when he was working in the area as a lineman. On September 5, 1954, in WaKeeney, Kansas, she married Bruce. When she and Bruce moved to Manhattan, Wilma worked as the Payroll Accountant for DPRA. She attended First Lutheran Church and volunteered in various capacities over the years. Wilma enjoyed playing cards with family and friends. She liked to solve puzzles including crosswords, cryptograms, and Scrabble. She was an avid sports fan and especially loved the Royals. She made quilts for all her grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Wilma was devoted to her family and loved spending time with them and attending their activities. Survivors include her four children: Roberta Johnson and her husband Dwight of Manhattan, Susan Dringenberg and her husband Gale of Parsons, KS, Brian Peil and his wife Lenka of Manhattan, and Margaret Peil of Overland Park, KS; ten grandchildren: Molly Petrik (Dustin), Kelly Wendland (Josh), Benjamin Johnson (Emily), Brent Dringenberg, Emily Dringenberg (Michael Caddell), Beth Dringenberg, Otto Vosberg (Kaycee), Emily Vosberg (Fiancé Wade Hageman), Brandi Peil (Tom Johnson), and Ali Peil; one step-grandson Joshua Staab; eight great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; brother Carroll Fabrizius (Judy); brothers-in-law Wayne Peil (Diane) and Ken Peil (Audrey). Wilma was preceded in death by her husband Bruce on December 13, 2000; one adopted granddaughter Jessica Peil; and three siblings: Elvin Fabrizius, Ella Reavis and Lois Jean Harvey. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, February 5th, at First Lutheran Church, 930 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, with Reverend Stephen Haverlah officiating. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery southeast of Manhattan. The family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:15 AM Saturday at the church prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Bruce Peil Memorial Scholarship at Manhattan Area Technical College for the Electric Power &amp; Distribution program. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wilma A. Peil, age 91, a Manhattan resident since 1971, died January 27, 2022, at Meadowlark Hills – Wroten House. She was born February 10, 1930, in Hays, Kansas, the daughter of S.P. and Tabea (Deines) Fabrizius. Wilma graduated from WaKeeney High School in 1947 and then from Brown-Mackie College in Business. Wilma returned to WaKeeney after college and worked for Western Cooperative Electric. That’s where she met Bruce B. Peil (of Blue Hill, Nebraska) when he was working in the area as a lineman. On September 5, 1954, in WaKeeney, Kansas, she married Bruce. When she and Bruce moved to Manhattan, Wilma worked as the Payroll Accountant for DPRA. She attended First Lutheran Church and volunteered in various capacities over the years. Wilma enjoyed playing cards with family and friends. She liked to solve puzzles including crosswords, cryptograms, and Scrabble. She was an avid sports fan and especially loved the Royals. She made quilts for all her grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Wilma was devoted to her family and loved spending time with them and attending their activities. Survivors include her four children: Roberta Johnson and her husband Dwight of Manhattan, Susan Dringenberg and her husband Gale of Parsons, KS, Brian Peil and his wife Lenka of Manhattan, and Margaret Peil of Overland Park, KS; ten grandchildren: Molly Petrik (Dustin), Kelly Wendland (Josh), Benjamin Johnson (Emily), Brent Dringenberg, Emily Dringenberg (Michael Caddell), Beth Dringenberg, Otto Vosberg (Kaycee), Emily Vosberg (Fiancé Wade Hageman), Brandi Peil (Tom Johnson), and Ali Peil; one step-grandson Joshua Staab; eight great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; brother Carroll Fabrizius (Judy); brothers-in-law Wayne Peil (Diane) and Ken Peil (Audrey). Wilma was preceded in death by her husband Bruce on December 13, 2000; one adopted granddaughter Jessica Peil; and three siblings: Elvin Fabrizius, Ella Reavis and Lois Jean Harvey. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, February 5th, at First Lutheran Church, 930 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, with Reverend Stephen Haverlah officiating. Interment will follow in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery southeast of Manhattan. The family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:15 AM Saturday at the church prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Bruce Peil Memorial Scholarship at Manhattan Area Technical College for the Electric Power &amp; Distribution program. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wilma A. Peil

Ruth J. “Janice” Krienitz, age 96, of Manhattan, Kansas, died January 27, 2022, at The Via Christi Village in Manhattan. She was born August 6, 1925, in Leonardville, Kansas, the daughter of Elmer David Lund and Ellen Marie (Johnson) Lund. On February 12, 1949, she was united in marriage to John C. Krienitz, in Kansas City, Kansas. He preceded her in death. Janice was born and raised on a farm near Leonardville, Kansas. It was there she learned to work hard and to love the outdoors. She continued both throughout her lifetime. She was known by many walking through the Northview neighborhood and at the Mall. She enjoyed people and never met a stranger. She always had a story or joke to share. Janice and her husband enjoyed traveling and she was proud to have visited all 48 continental United States. In her later years, she especially enjoyed the other women of the First Christian Church, Larson Group. Janice is survived by her brother Myron Lund of Leonardville, Kansas; two daughters: Marcia Finn of Manhattan, Kansas, and Deb Marfield (Walt) of Manhattan, Kansas; grandchildren: Tara (Doug) Hartung of Manhattan, Wes Marfield of Kansas City, Missouri, Travis Marfield (Amanda) of Wamego, Kansas; four great-grandchildren: Jacob, Clayton, Emily and Madyson; and many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her two brothers: Duane (Jean) Lund and Donald (Helen) Lund; three sisters: Lenore (Carl) Isaacson, Viola (Kenneth) Fellers and Eunice (Victor) Toepffer; brother-in-law Frank (Bertha) Krienitz: sisters-in law: Alice Lund and Margaret (Bill) Cook; and son-in-law Greg Finn. Private family burial will be in Sunrise Cemetery. Online condolences may be left for the family by clicking on "Share A Memory" on this page. Memorial contributions may be made to Ascension Via Christi Village. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ruth J. “Janice” Krienitz, age 96, of Manhattan, Kansas, died January 27, 2022, at The Via Christi Village in Manhattan. She was born August 6, 1925, in Leonardville, Kansas, the daughter of Elmer David Lund and Ellen Marie (Johnson) Lund. On February 12, 1949, she was united in marriage to John C. Krienitz, in Kansas City, Kansas. He preceded her in death. Janice was born and raised on a farm near Leonardville, Kansas. It was there she learned to work hard and to love the outdoors. She continued both throughout her lifetime. She was known by many walking through the Northview neighborhood and at the Mall. She enjoyed people and never met a stranger. She always had a story or joke to share. Janice and her husband enjoyed traveling and she was proud to have visited all 48 continental United States. In her later years, she especially enjoyed the other women of the First Christian Church, Larson Group. Janice is survived by her brother Myron Lund of Leonardville, Kansas; two daughters: Marcia Finn of Manhattan, Kansas, and Deb Marfield (Walt) of Manhattan, Kansas; grandchildren: Tara (Doug) Hartung of Manhattan, Wes Marfield of Kansas City, Missouri, Travis Marfield (Amanda) of Wamego, Kansas; four great-grandchildren: Jacob, Clayton, Emily and Madyson; and many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her two brothers: Duane (Jean) Lund and Donald (Helen) Lund; three sisters: Lenore (Carl) Isaacson, Viola (Kenneth) Fellers and Eunice (Victor) Toepffer; brother-in-law Frank (Bertha) Krienitz: sisters-in law: Alice Lund and Margaret (Bill) Cook; and son-in-law Greg Finn. Private family burial will be in Sunrise Cemetery. Online condolences may be left for the family by clicking on "Share A Memory" on this page. Memorial contributions may be made to Ascension Via Christi Village. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ruth J. “Janice” Krienitz

Melvon George Olds, 84, of Abilene, Kansas, passed away at home on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, surrounded by his family. Melvon was born on June 17, 1937 in Lyons, Kansas, to Fred and Helen (Schroeder) Olds. His first home was a railroad car without any modern conveniences. Melvon attended grade school in Lyons and graduated from Lyons High School in 1956. He enjoyed attending class reunions, the last being his 65th.

After high school Melvon enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country for 20 years. He worked on aircraft radios, served in Vietnam, and retired as a Master Sergeant in 1976. After his military career, Melvon spent 20 years working for the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Pineville, Louisiana, as a nursing assistant.

Melvon was united in marriage to Maylou Betty Knopp on December 21, 1968, in Billings, Montana. They settled in Alexandria, Louisiana, and later moved to Pineville, Louisiana, where they lived until retirement. Melvon was a member of Community Baptist Church and later a member of Kingsville Baptist Church. In 1996, Melvon and Maylou moved to McPherson, Kansas, to be closer to his family and quickly became involved in the community and active members of Harmony Christian Church. After Maylou’s death in 2014, Melvon moved to Abilene, Kansas, to be near his daughter and family. He truly enjoyed living in the country and planted a small orchard of fruit trees, gardened, and helped with the cattle.

Maylou and Melvon were blessed with a son, Daniel Fred, and a daughter, Twyla Kay, both through adoption. He said the best days of his life were after he adopted his children, but becoming a grandparent was his true calling.&nbsp; Many hours were spent reading, going to the park, listening to stories, riding bikes, and the grandkids trying to figure out if there really was an alligator in his basement! His hobbies included reading, gardening, canning, model trains, art (watercolors), and drawing, especially cartoons of the pastor during church! Melvon enjoyed cooking for church potlucks and remained completely independent until the last few months of his life. Melvon will always be remembered for his humor and quick wit.

Melvon was preceded in death by his wife, Maylou Betty Olds, parents, Fred and Helen Olds, and sister, Kay Olds Vickery,

Survivors include his son, Daniel (Ashley) Olds, Ball, Louisiana, and his daughter, Twyla (Arthur) Sprouse, Abilene, Kansas, grandchildren, Rebekah (Larry) Austin, Moundridge, Kansas, Rachel (Kyle) Culbertson, Overland Park, Kansas, Christian Lee, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Rhegan Sprouse, Destiny Sprouse, and Dominick Ortega, Abilene, Kansas, Casey (Brill) Proctor, Crockett, Texas, and his brother, Chris (LouAnn) Olds, McPherson, Kansas, along with many nieces and nephews. A celebration of life service will be held, Saturday, February 5, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. in McPherson, Kansas, at Harmony Christian Church. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third Street, Abilene, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society and donating blood to the American Red Cross is another way to honor Melvon’s memory.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Melvon George Olds, 84, of Abilene, Kansas, passed away at home on Wednesday, January 26, 2022, surrounded by his family. Melvon was born on June 17, 1937 in Lyons, Kansas, to Fred and Helen (Schroeder) Olds. His first home was a railroad car without any modern conveniences. Melvon attended grade school in Lyons and graduated from Lyons High School in 1956. He enjoyed attending class reunions, the last being his 65th. After high school Melvon enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country for 20 years. He worked on aircraft radios, served in Vietnam, and retired as a Master Sergeant in 1976. After his military career, Melvon spent 20 years working for the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Pineville, Louisiana, as a nursing assistant. Melvon was united in marriage to Maylou Betty Knopp on December 21, 1968, in Billings, Montana. They settled in Alexandria, Louisiana, and later moved to Pineville, Louisiana, where they lived until retirement. Melvon was a member of Community Baptist Church and later a member of Kingsville Baptist Church. In 1996, Melvon and Maylou moved to McPherson, Kansas, to be closer to his family and quickly became involved in the community and active members of Harmony Christian Church. After Maylou’s death in 2014, Melvon moved to Abilene, Kansas, to be near his daughter and family. He truly enjoyed living in the country and planted a small orchard of fruit trees, gardened, and helped with the cattle. Maylou and Melvon were blessed with a son, Daniel Fred, and a daughter, Twyla Kay, both through adoption. He said the best days of his life were after he adopted his children, but becoming a grandparent was his true calling.&nbsp; Many hours were spent reading, going to the park, listening to stories, riding bikes, and the grandkids trying to figure out if there really was an alligator in his basement! His hobbies included reading, gardening, canning, model trains, art (watercolors), and drawing, especially cartoons of the pastor during church! Melvon enjoyed cooking for church potlucks and remained completely independent until the last few months of his life. Melvon will always be remembered for his humor and quick wit. Melvon was preceded in death by his wife, Maylou Betty Olds, parents, Fred and Helen Olds, and sister, Kay Olds Vickery, Survivors include his son, Daniel (Ashley) Olds, Ball, Louisiana, and his daughter, Twyla (Arthur) Sprouse, Abilene, Kansas, grandchildren, Rebekah (Larry) Austin, Moundridge, Kansas, Rachel (Kyle) Culbertson, Overland Park, Kansas, Christian Lee, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Rhegan Sprouse, Destiny Sprouse, and Dominick Ortega, Abilene, Kansas, Casey (Brill) Proctor, Crockett, Texas, and his brother, Chris (LouAnn) Olds, McPherson, Kansas, along with many nieces and nephews. A celebration of life service will be held, Saturday, February 5, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. in McPherson, Kansas, at Harmony Christian Church. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third Street, Abilene, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society and donating blood to the American Red Cross is another way to honor Melvon’s memory.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Melvon George Olds

Jason Andrew Hager, 50, of Abilene KS passed away Monday, January 24, 2022. Jason was born September 29, 1971 in Indianapolis, IN. The son of Robert Hager and Phylis Price. He graduated from North Central High School in 1990. Jason enlisted in the United States Army in 1993. Throughout his military career Jason attended and excelled at numerous courses and academies. Jason served honorably in three American led campaigns; twice in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2003-2004 and again from 2008 to his birthday in 2009, then again in Operation New Dawn from 2010-2011. He attained the Congressional rank of Sergeant First Class where he guided and mentored the future leaders of the United States Army. Jason retired after 20 years of Noble service; lauded by his Seniors, peers and subordinates.

On January 16, 1999 Jason married the love of his life, Jennifer Morquecho in Las Vegas, NV. They were blessed with three boys; Luke, Levi and Lane and as a family, established themselves in Abilene. After his Army career he earned a Mechanical Engineering Degree from Kansas State University in 2019. He applied his degree at El Dorado National in Salina Kansas; before becoming a Quality Assurance Inspector for Advanced Turbine Engine Army Maintenance on Ft Riley. He was a member of the Abilene Knights of Columbus and was active in the Boy Scouts of America.

Jason had a passion for his family, his church and community, sports, and perfecting his barbecue skills. His passion for barbecue was well known in Abilene and surrounding communities, allowing him to establish his own catering business as No Limits BBQ. He didn’t just cook and barbeque, he began the initial design on a smoker that would improve the end product.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was a huge fan of the Indianapolis Colts, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Lakers and the Abilene Cowboys.

Jason is survived by his loving wife Jennifer and three sons: Luke, Levi and Lane Hager; mother, Phylis (Paul) Gesellchen and his father, Robert (Petra) Hager. His brothers Brad (Tracie) Hager and Peter (Tricia) Schilling and sisters Stephanie (Chris) Clifford and Pam (Antoine) Walker, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jason is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Charles and Edith Hager and maternal grandparents James and Jean Price.

Family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. tonight (Monday, January 31, 2022) at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Abilene. Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp; Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, February 1, 2022 at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Abilene with Fr. Peter O’Donnell officiating. His final resting place will be in the Abilene City Cemetery. The family requests that in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Jason Hager Memorial Fund. An account has been set up in his name at Great Plains Federal Credit Union in Abilene, Kansas. Contributions may also be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410 or Great Plains Credit Union, 504 N. Buckeye Ave, Abilene, Kansas, 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jason Andrew Hager, 50, of Abilene KS passed away Monday, January 24, 2022. Jason was born September 29, 1971 in Indianapolis, IN. The son of Robert Hager and Phylis Price. He graduated from North Central High School in 1990. Jason enlisted in the United States Army in 1993. Throughout his military career Jason attended and excelled at numerous courses and academies. Jason served honorably in three American led campaigns; twice in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2003-2004 and again from 2008 to his birthday in 2009, then again in Operation New Dawn from 2010-2011. He attained the Congressional rank of Sergeant First Class where he guided and mentored the future leaders of the United States Army. Jason retired after 20 years of Noble service; lauded by his Seniors, peers and subordinates. On January 16, 1999 Jason married the love of his life, Jennifer Morquecho in Las Vegas, NV. They were blessed with three boys; Luke, Levi and Lane and as a family, established themselves in Abilene. After his Army career he earned a Mechanical Engineering Degree from Kansas State University in 2019. He applied his degree at El Dorado National in Salina Kansas; before becoming a Quality Assurance Inspector for Advanced Turbine Engine Army Maintenance on Ft Riley. He was a member of the Abilene Knights of Columbus and was active in the Boy Scouts of America. Jason had a passion for his family, his church and community, sports, and perfecting his barbecue skills. His passion for barbecue was well known in Abilene and surrounding communities, allowing him to establish his own catering business as No Limits BBQ. He didn’t just cook and barbeque, he began the initial design on a smoker that would improve the end product.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was a huge fan of the Indianapolis Colts, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Lakers and the Abilene Cowboys. Jason is survived by his loving wife Jennifer and three sons: Luke, Levi and Lane Hager; mother, Phylis (Paul) Gesellchen and his father, Robert (Petra) Hager. His brothers Brad (Tracie) Hager and Peter (Tricia) Schilling and sisters Stephanie (Chris) Clifford and Pam (Antoine) Walker, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jason is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Charles and Edith Hager and maternal grandparents James and Jean Price. Family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. tonight (Monday, January 31, 2022) at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Abilene. Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 p.m.&nbsp; Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, February 1, 2022 at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Abilene with Fr. Peter O’Donnell officiating. His final resting place will be in the Abilene City Cemetery. The family requests that in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Jason Hager Memorial Fund. An account has been set up in his name at Great Plains Federal Credit Union in Abilene, Kansas. Contributions may also be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410 or Great Plains Credit Union, 504 N. Buckeye Ave, Abilene, Kansas, 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jason Andrew Hager

Don Henry Reiff, 79, of rural Hope passed into the next life on Friday, January 28, 2022. He was born May 14, 1942 in Abilene, the son of Henry and Edna (Tischhauser) Reiff, and graduated from Chapman High School in 1960. He was united in marriage to Sandra G. Betts, August 4, 1962. She preceded him in death August 1, 2021.

 He was a lifelong farmer in the Dickinson county area, and is survived by his son and partner in farming, Terry (Angie) Reiff of Hope, and his daughter, Robin (Steve) Brace of Gretna, Nebraska, and Four grandchildren: Katelyn Reiff, Ryan Brace, Rocque (Krista) Russell and Clayton Carson and one brother, Duane (Cathy) Reiff of Topeka. He was preceded in death by his parents, loving wife Sandra and two sisters. 

Graveside services for Don will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 5, 2022 at New Basel Church Cemetery, 1075 1100 Avenue, Abilene, KS, 67410. Family will receive friends on Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home. The family suggests memorial be given to the Dickinson County Home Health or to New Basel Church. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;

Don Henry Reiff, 79, of rural Hope passed into the next life on Friday, January 28, 2022. He was born May 14, 1942 in Abilene, the son of Henry and Edna (Tischhauser) Reiff, and graduated from Chapman High School in 1960. He was united in marriage to Sandra G. Betts, August 4, 1962. She preceded him in death August 1, 2021. He was a lifelong farmer in the Dickinson county area, and is survived by his son and partner in farming, Terry (Angie) Reiff of Hope, and his daughter, Robin (Steve) Brace of Gretna, Nebraska, and Four grandchildren: Katelyn Reiff, Ryan Brace, Rocque (Krista) Russell and Clayton Carson and one brother, Duane (Cathy) Reiff of Topeka. He was preceded in death by his parents, loving wife Sandra and two sisters. Graveside services for Don will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 5, 2022 at New Basel Church Cemetery, 1075 1100 Avenue, Abilene, KS, 67410. Family will receive friends on Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home. The family suggests memorial be given to the Dickinson County Home Health or to New Basel Church. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;

Don Henry Reiff

Robert Wirt (Robert) Crofoot, 64, of Junction City, KS, passed away Wednesday, January 26th, at his residence with family and friends present. &nbsp;He was a truck driver-end dump for &nbsp;Shilling Construction Manhattan and also Mid-West Concrete also in Manhattan Robert Crofoot was born in San Marcas, Texas on June 9, 1957, a son of the late Irene Gloria (Haynes) and George Wendell Crofoot. with family and friends present. &nbsp;Robert was united in marriage to Cheryl Dunn on February 15, 1988, in Junction City, Kansas Robert was an avid motorcyclist belonging to the Hawgs Motorcycle Club, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, and the Geary County Rural Fire Dept. &nbsp;Robert was an educated man receiving a BA from Touro University in Vallejo, California in Criminal Justice and a Masters in Business Administration. &nbsp; He served during the Desert Storm and was retired from the U.S. Army as an E-6. &nbsp;Robert and Cheryl belonged to either the Bethany UMC or the Zion Brethren in Christ Church. &nbsp;Which one??? Robert is survived by his wife Cheryl of their home; five sons William Vibbert (April Millis) of Waterloo NY; &nbsp;Robert "Robby" Crofoot, of College Station, TX; &nbsp;David (Jeannine) Vibbert, of Auburn, NY; &nbsp;Greggory "Greg" Vibbert, of Longs, SC; &nbsp;Eric Crofoot, of College Station, TX; sister, Cindy (Lee) Moore, of Texas. a brother, George (Lisa) Crofoot, of NC; and 9 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. &nbsp;George was preceded in death by his parents, both grandparents and aunts, and uncles. The family requests any donations be directed to the Good Shepherd Home Care and Hospice 3801 Vanesta Dr. Manhattan, Kansas 66503. Inurnment and military honors will be at the &nbsp;Kansas Veterans Cemetery, Manhattan, KS. Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at irvinparkview.com. &nbsp;Arrangements with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home &amp; Cremation.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Robert Wirt (Robert) Crofoot, 64, of Junction City, KS, passed away Wednesday, January 26th, at his residence with family and friends present. &nbsp;He was a truck driver-end dump for &nbsp;Shilling Construction Manhattan and also Mid-West Concrete also in Manhattan Robert Crofoot was born in San Marcas, Texas on June 9, 1957, a son of the late Irene Gloria (Haynes) and George Wendell Crofoot. with family and friends present. &nbsp;Robert was united in marriage to Cheryl Dunn on February 15, 1988, in Junction City, Kansas Robert was an avid motorcyclist belonging to the Hawgs Motorcycle Club, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, and the Geary County Rural Fire Dept. &nbsp;Robert was an educated man receiving a BA from Touro University in Vallejo, California in Criminal Justice and a Masters in Business Administration. &nbsp; He served during the Desert Storm and was retired from the U.S. Army as an E-6. &nbsp;Robert and Cheryl belonged to either the Bethany UMC or the Zion Brethren in Christ Church. &nbsp;Which one??? Robert is survived by his wife Cheryl of their home; five sons William Vibbert (April Millis) of Waterloo NY; &nbsp;Robert "Robby" Crofoot, of College Station, TX; &nbsp;David (Jeannine) Vibbert, of Auburn, NY; &nbsp;Greggory "Greg" Vibbert, of Longs, SC; &nbsp;Eric Crofoot, of College Station, TX; sister, Cindy (Lee) Moore, of Texas. a brother, George (Lisa) Crofoot, of NC; and 9 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. &nbsp;George was preceded in death by his parents, both grandparents and aunts, and uncles. The family requests any donations be directed to the Good Shepherd Home Care and Hospice 3801 Vanesta Dr. Manhattan, Kansas 66503. Inurnment and military honors will be at the &nbsp;Kansas Veterans Cemetery, Manhattan, KS. Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at irvinparkview.com. &nbsp;Arrangements with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home &amp; Cremation.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Robert Wirt (Robert) Crofoot

Georgeanne Rose Mirack, 84, formerly of Annapolis, MD, passed away Thursday, January 20th, at Homestead Care Home, Manhattan Kansas. Georgeanne was born in Baltimore, MD on September 24, 1937, the daughter of the late Ruby (Eilers) and William Bankard. She was a homemaker, an artist, and former office manager with CT Management in Maryland and the Washington, DC area. Georgeanne was the widow of James Mirack, Jr. and he died in 2010. Georgeanne is survived by her daughter, Cindy (William) Titcomb, of Thornbury, Bristol UK; son, Steve Mirack, of Manhattan; 3 grandchildren, Tara, Alex &amp; Dominic. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, 2 brothers, William and Bruce. There will be no services at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice, and online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website, www.irvinparkview.com. Arrangements with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home and Cremation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Georgeanne Rose Mirack, 84, formerly of Annapolis, MD, passed away Thursday, January 20th, at Homestead Care Home, Manhattan Kansas. Georgeanne was born in Baltimore, MD on September 24, 1937, the daughter of the late Ruby (Eilers) and William Bankard. She was a homemaker, an artist, and former office manager with CT Management in Maryland and the Washington, DC area. Georgeanne was the widow of James Mirack, Jr. and he died in 2010. Georgeanne is survived by her daughter, Cindy (William) Titcomb, of Thornbury, Bristol UK; son, Steve Mirack, of Manhattan; 3 grandchildren, Tara, Alex &amp; Dominic. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, 2 brothers, William and Bruce. There will be no services at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice, and online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website, www.irvinparkview.com. Arrangements with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home and Cremation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Georgeanne Rose Mirack

Joy Deen Keller, 70, of Manhattan, passed away Wednesday evening, January 19th. She was a cosmetologist and a homemaker. Joy was born in Chelan, WA on June 24, 1951, the daughter of Wanda Fern (Barr) Larson, of Ephrata, WA, and the late Robert Bruce Holden. Joy attended high school at Eastmount HS, East Wenatchee, WA. Joy was united in marriage to her best friend Joseph Keller who survives her at their home in Manhattan, her mother, Wanda Fern (Barr) Larson, of Ephrata, WA, and a sister, Sherry Zerr, also of Ephrata, WA. There will be no services at this time. The family has asked for donations to help with the funeral expenses and to be sent to the funeral home, and online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website, www.irvinparkview.com. Arrangements with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home and Cremation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joy Deen Keller, 70, of Manhattan, passed away Wednesday evening, January 19th. She was a cosmetologist and a homemaker. Joy was born in Chelan, WA on June 24, 1951, the daughter of Wanda Fern (Barr) Larson, of Ephrata, WA, and the late Robert Bruce Holden. Joy attended high school at Eastmount HS, East Wenatchee, WA. Joy was united in marriage to her best friend Joseph Keller who survives her at their home in Manhattan, her mother, Wanda Fern (Barr) Larson, of Ephrata, WA, and a sister, Sherry Zerr, also of Ephrata, WA. There will be no services at this time. The family has asked for donations to help with the funeral expenses and to be sent to the funeral home, and online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website, www.irvinparkview.com. Arrangements with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home and Cremation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joy Deen Keller

Claude “Tige” Leon Blevins II, 86 of Louisville, Kansas passed away, Thursday, January 27, 2022, at the Wamego Health Center.&nbsp; He was born February 16, 1935, in Milford, Kansas.&nbsp; Tige was the son of Claude Leon Blevins I and Stasha Irene Lawn Blevins.

Tige attended grade school in Junction City and high school in Salina, Kansas, class of 1953. During his grade school and high school days, Tige always had a job.&nbsp; He worked at a bowling alley setting pins, at a foundry, and the R.C. Cola bottling co.&nbsp; At age 14 he boarded with a family near J.C. learning to be a farmer.&nbsp; At age 17 they farmed together on shares.&nbsp; At age 18 he was building elevators in Kansas &amp; Nebraska.

At age 20 Tige enlisted in the Coast Guard for four years.&nbsp; While in the military he was stationed at Cape May, NJ, &amp; New London, Connecticut for basic electronic school. Other stops included Lexington, Kentucky, Charleston, SC, Key West, Florida, and Eniwetok in the Pacific.&nbsp; While there in performed A-Bomb testing at the Loran Station.&nbsp; He also worked with long-range Radar.

He completed his training at Hobe Sound and Miami Beach where he did electronic repair.&nbsp; At the completion of his Coast Guard, he was ET-1 Petty Officer 1st&nbsp;Class. At each place, Tige was stationed he enjoyed learning all he could about the history and geography of the area.

After military life and his marriage to Marcile Chapman, he worked with his father and brother for a period of time, later going on his own with Marcile and their four children, establishing Golden Ridge Farms near Riley, KS. He continued working a successful Dairy Farm until 1982.&nbsp; In addition to the dairy, Claude began a career in 1960 at Fort Riley. He was shop supervisor in aircraft avionics and ground radar.&nbsp; He retired from Fort Riley in 1988.

Tige married Marilyn Joy Dale, on October 10, 1987.&nbsp; They purchased land along Snokomo Creek in Wabaunsee County, building their dream home, Prairie Rose Farm.&nbsp; While on the farm, Tige raised milo, alfalfa, soybeans and had a small herd of Herford cattle.&nbsp; In 1995 Claude became zoning administrator for Wabaunsee County, working there for 10 years, retiring in 2005 at age 70...During the 28 years on Prairie Rose farm, Tige led a good outdoor life surrounded by the beauty of Wabaunsee County Kansas, and always lots of animals.&nbsp; One of his favorite things was to host an annual skeet shoot and chili feed with family. The Blevins hosted numerous family reunions.&nbsp; He was a past member of the VFW post in Manhattan. He was a pretty good bowler, loved KU basketball and the Chiefs.&nbsp; He enjoyed raising a vegetable garden and became a member of the Wabaunsee Garden Club with Marilyn. He loved to listen to George Jones &amp; Willie Nelson and attended concerts when possible.&nbsp; He was a political junkie and a history buff.

In 2018 ill-health determined that it was time to sell the farm.&nbsp; He moved to Prairie Ridge Subdivision near Louisville, Kansas. Illness took him to the hospital for his last days.&nbsp; Last rites were administered by Father Mike of Wamego.

Survivors include his wife, Marilyn, his children Mary “Missy” (Scott)Meter, Eva Marie Peterson, Stepson, Greg Dale, daughters-in-law, Debbie Blevins, Robbie Dale, Grandchildren Megan Blevins (Brad) Tera Blevins (Adela), Dakota Dale, Mishelle Whitney, Matt (Shannell) Peterson, Monica Bruna (Justin) Andrew Karl, Tony Karl, 11 great-grandchildren, and many other loving family &amp; friends.&nbsp;

Mr. Blevins was preceded in death by his parents, sons, Claude “Petey” Leon Blevins, III, Michael Joseph Blevins (Deborah), Doug Dale (Robbie) and grandson Christopher Lee Blevins.

Cremation arrangements are in the care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.&nbsp; Life Celebration services will be announced at a later date with Military Honors.&nbsp;

Memorials are requested to the Veterans Memorial in Wamego. And can be left at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home, PO. Box 48 Wamego, KS 66547.

Claude “Tige” Leon Blevins II, 86 of Louisville, Kansas passed away, Thursday, January 27, 2022, at the Wamego Health Center.&nbsp; He was born February 16, 1935, in Milford, Kansas.&nbsp; Tige was the son of Claude Leon Blevins I and Stasha Irene Lawn Blevins.Tige attended grade school in Junction City and high school in Salina, Kansas, class of 1953. During his grade school and high school days, Tige always had a job.&nbsp; He worked at a bowling alley setting pins, at a foundry, and the R.C. Cola bottling co.&nbsp; At age 14 he boarded with a family near J.C. learning to be a farmer.&nbsp; At age 17 they farmed together on shares.&nbsp; At age 18 he was building elevators in Kansas &amp; Nebraska.At age 20 Tige enlisted in the Coast Guard for four years.&nbsp; While in the military he was stationed at Cape May, NJ, &amp; New London, Connecticut for basic electronic school. Other stops included Lexington, Kentucky, Charleston, SC, Key West, Florida, and Eniwetok in the Pacific.&nbsp; While there in performed A-Bomb testing at the Loran Station.&nbsp; He also worked with long-range Radar.He completed his training at Hobe Sound and Miami Beach where he did electronic repair.&nbsp; At the completion of his Coast Guard, he was ET-1 Petty Officer 1st&nbsp;Class. At each place, Tige was stationed he enjoyed learning all he could about the history and geography of the area.After military life and his marriage to Marcile Chapman, he worked with his father and brother for a period of time, later going on his own with Marcile and their four children, establishing Golden Ridge Farms near Riley, KS. He continued working a successful Dairy Farm until 1982.&nbsp; In addition to the dairy, Claude began a career in 1960 at Fort Riley. He was shop supervisor in aircraft avionics and ground radar.&nbsp; He retired from Fort Riley in 1988.Tige married Marilyn Joy Dale, on October 10, 1987.&nbsp; They purchased land along Snokomo Creek in Wabaunsee County, building their dream home, Prairie Rose Farm.&nbsp; While on the farm, Tige raised milo, alfalfa, soybeans and had a small herd of Herford cattle.&nbsp; In 1995 Claude became zoning administrator for Wabaunsee County, working there for 10 years, retiring in 2005 at age 70...During the 28 years on Prairie Rose farm, Tige led a good outdoor life surrounded by the beauty of Wabaunsee County Kansas, and always lots of animals.&nbsp; One of his favorite things was to host an annual skeet shoot and chili feed with family. The Blevins hosted numerous family reunions.&nbsp; He was a past member of the VFW post in Manhattan. He was a pretty good bowler, loved KU basketball and the Chiefs.&nbsp; He enjoyed raising a vegetable garden and became a member of the Wabaunsee Garden Club with Marilyn. He loved to listen to George Jones &amp; Willie Nelson and attended concerts when possible.&nbsp; He was a political junkie and a history buff.In 2018 ill-health determined that it was time to sell the farm.&nbsp; He moved to Prairie Ridge Subdivision near Louisville, Kansas. Illness took him to the hospital for his last days.&nbsp; Last rites were administered by Father Mike of Wamego.Survivors include his wife, Marilyn, his children Mary “Missy” (Scott)Meter, Eva Marie Peterson, Stepson, Greg Dale, daughters-in-law, Debbie Blevins, Robbie Dale, Grandchildren Megan Blevins (Brad) Tera Blevins (Adela), Dakota Dale, Mishelle Whitney, Matt (Shannell) Peterson, Monica Bruna (Justin) Andrew Karl, Tony Karl, 11 great-grandchildren, and many other loving family &amp; friends.&nbsp;Mr. Blevins was preceded in death by his parents, sons, Claude “Petey” Leon Blevins, III, Michael Joseph Blevins (Deborah), Doug Dale (Robbie) and grandson Christopher Lee Blevins.Cremation arrangements are in the care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.&nbsp; Life Celebration services will be announced at a later date with Military Honors.&nbsp;Memorials are requested to the Veterans Memorial in Wamego. And can be left at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home, PO. Box 48 Wamego, KS 66547.

Claude “Tige” Leon Blevins II

Boonjueon Burnes, 81 of Junction City, KS, died Sunday, January 23, 2022 at her home in Junction City. Cremation has taken place. A funeral service will be held 3 p.m. Friday, February 4, 2022 at the Buddhist Temple of Salina Kansas 2857 W. Pleasant Hill Road, Salina, KS 67401. Boonjueon was born January 9, 1941, in Uttaradit, Thailand the daughter of Yang and Boonmee Luangrueang. Survivors include one son; Nathanael S. Burnes of Aberdeen, N.C.; one grandson, Eric Gross and his wife Nadia of New Castle, DE; four granddaughters, Asia Fitzgerald, Samara, Alexia and Alexandria Drummond of Middletown, DE; many siblings, nephews, nieces and a host of other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Sonja Poitier of Middletown, DE and a sibling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boonjueon Burnes, 81 of Junction City, KS, died Sunday, January 23, 2022 at her home in Junction City. Cremation has taken place. A funeral service will be held 3 p.m. Friday, February 4, 2022 at the Buddhist Temple of Salina Kansas 2857 W. Pleasant Hill Road, Salina, KS 67401. Boonjueon was born January 9, 1941, in Uttaradit, Thailand the daughter of Yang and Boonmee Luangrueang. Survivors include one son; Nathanael S. Burnes of Aberdeen, N.C.; one grandson, Eric Gross and his wife Nadia of New Castle, DE; four granddaughters, Asia Fitzgerald, Samara, Alexia and Alexandria Drummond of Middletown, DE; many siblings, nephews, nieces and a host of other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Sonja Poitier of Middletown, DE and a sibling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Boonjueon Burnes

James W. “Jim” Ward passed away Monday, January 24, 2022 at the Memorial Hospital in Abilene. He was born February 23, 1945 in Hahira, Georgia the son of Fletcher and Jannette (Greene) Ward. Jim served his country in the United States Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was a truck driver for most of his life before retiring. He enjoyed bowling, building and flying model airplanes, coaching flag football, and fishing. On November 3, 1962 he was united in marriage to Carolin Gil. She survives of the home. Other survivors include his sons Ralph and his wife Michelle Ward of Abilene, James and his wife Laurie Ward of Abilene, his sister Jean Hutto of Valdosta, Georgia, eight grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers Shorty, Little Man, and Benny. Cremation is planned and private graveside services will be at a later date with Father Peter O’Donnell as Celebrant in the Mt. St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Dickinson County and may be sent in care of the Danner Funeral Home, 501 N. Buckeye, Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

James W. “Jim” Ward passed away Monday, January 24, 2022 at the Memorial Hospital in Abilene. He was born February 23, 1945 in Hahira, Georgia the son of Fletcher and Jannette (Greene) Ward. Jim served his country in the United States Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was a truck driver for most of his life before retiring. He enjoyed bowling, building and flying model airplanes, coaching flag football, and fishing. On November 3, 1962 he was united in marriage to Carolin Gil. She survives of the home. Other survivors include his sons Ralph and his wife Michelle Ward of Abilene, James and his wife Laurie Ward of Abilene, his sister Jean Hutto of Valdosta, Georgia, eight grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers Shorty, Little Man, and Benny. Cremation is planned and private graveside services will be at a later date with Father Peter O’Donnell as Celebrant in the Mt. St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Dickinson County and may be sent in care of the Danner Funeral Home, 501 N. Buckeye, Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

James W. “Jim” Ward 

Gerald “Jerry” Earl Ukena, passed away on January 25th, 2022 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan from COVID-19 complications, at the age of 70. He was surrounded by his loving wife and children when the Lord came to take him home. He was born May 16th, 1951 in Manhattan, KS. The proud son of Marvin E. and Lona Mae (Axelton) Ukena. Jerry grew up in Manhattan and graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969. He then graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1981. He worked for McCall Pattern Company until his retirement in 2005. Jerry was always a humble man. Quiet by nature, smart as a whip, an all-around handyman and would drop everything to help his family. What he knew he wanted to teach, what he didn’t know he wanted to learn. He was proud of where he came from, loved anything to do with maps, the land, and showing his wife, children and grandchildren our beautiful Country! He taught his children the great past time of baseball/softball, which the girls enjoyed immensely. Jerry became a Webelos Den Leader when his son Erik was starting his path in the Boy Scouts of America. He loved helping Erik nurture his passion for camping, nature, helping others and working with his hands. Erik earned his Eagle Scout and has gone on to be a pack leader. Jerry, with assistance of Erik, was able to guide his Grandson Craig to earn his Eagle Scout also. He enjoyed being a part of “The Tea Party.” Being part of a group willing and able to talk about politics and the world with friends was a blessing. He was married the love of his life, Catherine “Cathy” Mary (Eckart) at St. Bernards Catholic Church in Wamego, KS, in July of 1974. They were blessed with four girls and a boy. Jerry is survived by his wife, Cathy, and by his children Brandy (Steve) Ukena-Bush of Manhattan, KS; Heather (Matt) Gilbert of Wamego, KS; Erik (Cristy) Ukena of St. George, KS; Carol Brooks of Manhattan, KS, and Jennifer Ukena of Manhattan, KS. Also, his Seven Grandchildren Craig, Haley, Madison, Sebastian, Thomas, Cody, and Cade. As well as four Great-Grandchildren, Kyler, Roland, Emry, and Treyton. Jerry was preceded in death by father in 1988, his mother in 2022, and his older brother Steven Ukena in 2016. The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00&nbsp; p.m. on Sunday, January 30th, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Funeral Services for Jerry will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 31st, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at Sunrise Cemetery, directly after the funeral. The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502, is assisting the family with the service arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gerald “Jerry” Earl Ukena, passed away on January 25th, 2022 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan from COVID-19 complications, at the age of 70. He was surrounded by his loving wife and children when the Lord came to take him home. He was born May 16th, 1951 in Manhattan, KS. The proud son of Marvin E. and Lona Mae (Axelton) Ukena. Jerry grew up in Manhattan and graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969. He then graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1981. He worked for McCall Pattern Company until his retirement in 2005. Jerry was always a humble man. Quiet by nature, smart as a whip, an all-around handyman and would drop everything to help his family. What he knew he wanted to teach, what he didn’t know he wanted to learn. He was proud of where he came from, loved anything to do with maps, the land, and showing his wife, children and grandchildren our beautiful Country! He taught his children the great past time of baseball/softball, which the girls enjoyed immensely. Jerry became a Webelos Den Leader when his son Erik was starting his path in the Boy Scouts of America. He loved helping Erik nurture his passion for camping, nature, helping others and working with his hands. Erik earned his Eagle Scout and has gone on to be a pack leader. Jerry, with assistance of Erik, was able to guide his Grandson Craig to earn his Eagle Scout also. He enjoyed being a part of “The Tea Party.” Being part of a group willing and able to talk about politics and the world with friends was a blessing. He was married the love of his life, Catherine “Cathy” Mary (Eckart) at St. Bernards Catholic Church in Wamego, KS, in July of 1974. They were blessed with four girls and a boy. Jerry is survived by his wife, Cathy, and by his children Brandy (Steve) Ukena-Bush of Manhattan, KS; Heather (Matt) Gilbert of Wamego, KS; Erik (Cristy) Ukena of St. George, KS; Carol Brooks of Manhattan, KS, and Jennifer Ukena of Manhattan, KS. Also, his Seven Grandchildren Craig, Haley, Madison, Sebastian, Thomas, Cody, and Cade. As well as four Great-Grandchildren, Kyler, Roland, Emry, and Treyton. Jerry was preceded in death by father in 1988, his mother in 2022, and his older brother Steven Ukena in 2016. The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00&nbsp; p.m. on Sunday, January 30th, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Funeral Services for Jerry will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 31st, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at Sunrise Cemetery, directly after the funeral. The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502, is assisting the family with the service arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gerald “Jerry” Earl Ukena

Lona Mae (Axelton) Ukena, passed away on January 14th, 2022 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan from COVID-19 complications, at the youthful age of 95. She was with family as the angels came down, dancing with the snow, to take her home. She was born May 24th, 1926 in (old) Randolph, KS. The Daughter of Linnie R. and Ruth L. (Hyroop) Axelton. Lona Mae grew up on a farmstead in old Randolph. She told us of her mother putting sheets and fabric around the windows and doors to keep out the red dust of Oklahoma during the dust bowl. Oh, how she loved the flowers boxes that her daddy made to fit in the deep windows of the farm house. She went to grade school and part of High School in (old) Randolph before they had to move to Manhattan during the depression. She finished her education at Manhattan High School. When she was younger, she enjoyed playing basketball. She loved her family, her church, watching the birds, gardening, doing all kinds of puzzles, and watching any sport she could. Especially, if her grandchildren were playing or it was K-State!! She always had cake in the fridge, candy bars on the table and, always had a hug and a kiss for you. She was married to the love of her life, Marvin Ukena at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Junction City, in May of 1947. They were blessed with four boys. She was preceded in death by her Husband Marvin in 1988. Also, by her parents Linnie and Ruth, her brothers Merlin Elmo and Ralph Lavern, Great-Grandson Everett James, and her oldest son, Steven Ukena. At&nbsp; the time of her death, Lona Mae was survived by three of her boys. Gerald “Jerry” Ukena (Cathy), of Manhattan, James “Jim” Ukena (Diane), of St. George, &amp; Terry Ukena (Suzanne), of Topeka; Also, her Thirteen Grandchildren: Brandy, Heather, Erik, Carol, Jennifer, Jamie, Audra, Nathan, Adam, Erin, Kyle, Justin and Alexa, Twenty Great-Grandchildren, and Four Great-Great-Grandchildren. A private graveside service was held at the Sunrise Cemetery. Services will be announced at a later date. The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lona Mae (Axelton) Ukena, passed away on January 14th, 2022 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan from COVID-19 complications, at the youthful age of 95. She was with family as the angels came down, dancing with the snow, to take her home. She was born May 24th, 1926 in (old) Randolph, KS. The Daughter of Linnie R. and Ruth L. (Hyroop) Axelton. Lona Mae grew up on a farmstead in old Randolph. She told us of her mother putting sheets and fabric around the windows and doors to keep out the red dust of Oklahoma during the dust bowl. Oh, how she loved the flowers boxes that her daddy made to fit in the deep windows of the farm house. She went to grade school and part of High School in (old) Randolph before they had to move to Manhattan during the depression. She finished her education at Manhattan High School. When she was younger, she enjoyed playing basketball. She loved her family, her church, watching the birds, gardening, doing all kinds of puzzles, and watching any sport she could. Especially, if her grandchildren were playing or it was K-State!! She always had cake in the fridge, candy bars on the table and, always had a hug and a kiss for you. She was married to the love of her life, Marvin Ukena at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Junction City, in May of 1947. They were blessed with four boys. She was preceded in death by her Husband Marvin in 1988. Also, by her parents Linnie and Ruth, her brothers Merlin Elmo and Ralph Lavern, Great-Grandson Everett James, and her oldest son, Steven Ukena. At&nbsp; the time of her death, Lona Mae was survived by three of her boys. Gerald “Jerry” Ukena (Cathy), of Manhattan, James “Jim” Ukena (Diane), of St. George, &amp; Terry Ukena (Suzanne), of Topeka; Also, her Thirteen Grandchildren: Brandy, Heather, Erik, Carol, Jennifer, Jamie, Audra, Nathan, Adam, Erin, Kyle, Justin and Alexa, Twenty Great-Grandchildren, and Four Great-Great-Grandchildren. A private graveside service was held at the Sunrise Cemetery. Services will be announced at a later date. The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Lona Mae (Axelton) Ukena

Lawrence “Larry” Bremer passed away September 28, 2017, after a hard fought 14-year battle with MS. At the time of his passing, Larry was a resident of the Veteran’s Victory House in Walterboro, SC. Larry was born in post WWII Germany, Larry was the eldest of four surviving children born to CWO3 Virgil Ignatius Bremer (US Army Ret) and Englishwoman Joan Joyce (Mingay) Bremer and spent most of his school years in and around Ogden, Kansas. As a young man, he was a proud ad active Boy Scout and paper boy growing up, and eventually earned his Eagle Scout designation and attended the Boy Scout National Jamboree in Valley Forge, VA. Larry was a student representative at the American Legion Kansas Boys State and a member of the Manhattan High School Debate Team. Larry enlisted and served as a Sonar man in the U.S. Navy during the later period of the Viet Nam War while stationed onboard the USS Standley CG-32 homeported out of Charleston Navy Yard. Following his enlisted stint in the Navy, Larry and close childhood friend and Navy pal Jerry Trainer attended and graduated from Kansas State University. Larry loved his time at KSU and enjoyed playing tennis with Jerry and also as sparing partners for the KSU Women’s Tennis Team. Following his graduation from KSU, Larry was later accepted to attend the Annapolis Naval Training Center and was eventually commissioned as a Naval Supply Officer after attending Supply Officer training in Athens, Georgia. After several duty assignments, Larry returned to Charleston Navy Yard as a Lt. JG Supply Officer. During the wind-down/closure of the Charleston Navy Yard in the late 1970’s, Larry left the military and thereafter lived and worked in the Charleston/North Charleston area. While truck driving for Covenant Transport, Larry was diagnosed with the progressive form of MS at the age of 55. The disease weakened his body, but not his mind or spirit, and Larry continued to live independently in North Charleston until later 2015, some 12 years. Larry had a close circle of friends later in life that included his “dream girl” Beth Bishop of Johns Island and many others at the North Charleston Senior Center, the Jolly Friends Group, the local VFW as well as his church. Larry was preceded in death by his father, and is survived by his mother Joan J. Bremer of Waukee, Iowa; sister Diana L. Shaffer of Clive, IA, brother David W. Bremer of Rockport, MO, and brother Mark C. Bremer of Higganum, CT. Larry is also survived by his two biological children, Jocelyn E. (Bremer) Servaty and Christopher P. Bremer of MN. At the time of his death Larry was unfortunately estranged from his children. Throughout his nearly two years stay at the Veteran’s Victory House, Larry enjoyed the relationships he fostered with fellow residents as well as the many recreational outings and events which enabled him to remain socially engaged. Larry was a kind, friendly and engaging soul to anyone who met him and will be missed. The family would like to thank the staff of the Colleton Medical Center, the Veterans’ Victory House, the members of Patriot House, Brother Daniel and Brother Al, as well as the volunteer residents for their care and respect shown to our son/brother. The family will have a private memorial service and burial of his remains at the St. Patrick’ Catholic Cemetery in Ogden, Kansas. Donations in memory of Larry can be sent to your local Multiple Sclerosis support group of the Veteran’s Victory House in Walterboro, S.C.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lawrence “Larry” Bremer passed away September 28, 2017, after a hard fought 14-year battle with MS. At the time of his passing, Larry was a resident of the Veteran’s Victory House in Walterboro, SC. Larry was born in post WWII Germany, Larry was the eldest of four surviving children born to CWO3 Virgil Ignatius Bremer (US Army Ret) and Englishwoman Joan Joyce (Mingay) Bremer and spent most of his school years in and around Ogden, Kansas. As a young man, he was a proud ad active Boy Scout and paper boy growing up, and eventually earned his Eagle Scout designation and attended the Boy Scout National Jamboree in Valley Forge, VA. Larry was a student representative at the American Legion Kansas Boys State and a member of the Manhattan High School Debate Team. Larry enlisted and served as a Sonar man in the U.S. Navy during the later period of the Viet Nam War while stationed onboard the USS Standley CG-32 homeported out of Charleston Navy Yard. Following his enlisted stint in the Navy, Larry and close childhood friend and Navy pal Jerry Trainer attended and graduated from Kansas State University. Larry loved his time at KSU and enjoyed playing tennis with Jerry and also as sparing partners for the KSU Women’s Tennis Team. Following his graduation from KSU, Larry was later accepted to attend the Annapolis Naval Training Center and was eventually commissioned as a Naval Supply Officer after attending Supply Officer training in Athens, Georgia. After several duty assignments, Larry returned to Charleston Navy Yard as a Lt. JG Supply Officer. During the wind-down/closure of the Charleston Navy Yard in the late 1970’s, Larry left the military and thereafter lived and worked in the Charleston/North Charleston area. While truck driving for Covenant Transport, Larry was diagnosed with the progressive form of MS at the age of 55. The disease weakened his body, but not his mind or spirit, and Larry continued to live independently in North Charleston until later 2015, some 12 years. Larry had a close circle of friends later in life that included his “dream girl” Beth Bishop of Johns Island and many others at the North Charleston Senior Center, the Jolly Friends Group, the local VFW as well as his church. Larry was preceded in death by his father, and is survived by his mother Joan J. Bremer of Waukee, Iowa; sister Diana L. Shaffer of Clive, IA, brother David W. Bremer of Rockport, MO, and brother Mark C. Bremer of Higganum, CT. Larry is also survived by his two biological children, Jocelyn E. (Bremer) Servaty and Christopher P. Bremer of MN. At the time of his death Larry was unfortunately estranged from his children. Throughout his nearly two years stay at the Veteran’s Victory House, Larry enjoyed the relationships he fostered with fellow residents as well as the many recreational outings and events which enabled him to remain socially engaged. Larry was a kind, friendly and engaging soul to anyone who met him and will be missed. The family would like to thank the staff of the Colleton Medical Center, the Veterans’ Victory House, the members of Patriot House, Brother Daniel and Brother Al, as well as the volunteer residents for their care and respect shown to our son/brother. The family will have a private memorial service and burial of his remains at the St. Patrick’ Catholic Cemetery in Ogden, Kansas. Donations in memory of Larry can be sent to your local Multiple Sclerosis support group of the Veteran’s Victory House in Walterboro, S.C.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lawrence Paul Bremer - August 4, 1948 - September 28, 2017

Marcella "Aunt Sally" Pizark, 95, of Wamego, Kansas, died Thursday, January 27, 2022, at her home.  Mass of Christian Burial with burial at Greenwood Cemetery, in Michigan City, Indiana will be announced.

Marcella "Aunt Sally" Pizark, 95, of Wamego, Kansas, died Thursday, January 27, 2022, at her home. Mass of Christian Burial with burial at Greenwood Cemetery, in Michigan City, Indiana will be announced.

Marcella "Aunt Sally" Pizark

Betty Jean Harding’s life began on June 18, 1927. She was the daughter of Myron H. and Nannie Sue (Huwitt) Sanders in Shelbina, MO. Betty grew up on the family farm and spent plenty of time helping with daily chores and farm work. She graduated from Shelbina High School Class of 1945. She married Gifford Richard Harding on May 18, 1949, in Shelbina. Betty worked as a nurse, and also provided At-Home care for the elderly and disabled for many years. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Herington, KS. She enjoyed fishing trips in Colorado, and she loved gardening and growing her own fresh vegetables for her family.

Her loving family includes her younger brother, Delvert (Phyllis) Sanders of Mexico, MO, and their children and grandchildren, her son, Ronald H. (Chorng Sun) Harding, her grandchildren, Ronald Jr. (Rosa I.), and Warren M., and 5 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Gifford. Betty passed away peacefully into her Savior’s arms on January 19, 2022, at the age of 94 years old.

Her family will gather to greet friends AT 9 a.m. February 2nd at First Baptist Church in Herington, KS, followed immediately by her funeral service at 10 a.m.&nbsp; Interment will follow at Hope City Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to First Baptist Church of Herington.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Betty Jean Harding’s life began on June 18, 1927. She was the daughter of Myron H. and Nannie Sue (Huwitt) Sanders in Shelbina, MO. Betty grew up on the family farm and spent plenty of time helping with daily chores and farm work. She graduated from Shelbina High School Class of 1945. She married Gifford Richard Harding on May 18, 1949, in Shelbina. Betty worked as a nurse, and also provided At-Home care for the elderly and disabled for many years. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Herington, KS. She enjoyed fishing trips in Colorado, and she loved gardening and growing her own fresh vegetables for her family. Her loving family includes her younger brother, Delvert (Phyllis) Sanders of Mexico, MO, and their children and grandchildren, her son, Ronald H. (Chorng Sun) Harding, her grandchildren, Ronald Jr. (Rosa I.), and Warren M., and 5 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Gifford. Betty passed away peacefully into her Savior’s arms on January 19, 2022, at the age of 94 years old. Her family will gather to greet friends AT 9 a.m. February 2nd at First Baptist Church in Herington, KS, followed immediately by her funeral service at 10 a.m.&nbsp; Interment will follow at Hope City Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to First Baptist Church of Herington.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Betty Harding - June 18th, 1927 - January 19th, 2022

Mitsue Adachi Gerlaugh, 88, Manhattan, KS, passed away Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at her home in Manhattan. Cremation will take place. Her cremated remains will be buried in the future at Fort Riley Cemetery.

Mitsue Adachi Gerlaugh, 88, Manhattan, KS, passed away Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at her home in Manhattan. Cremation will take place. Her cremated remains will be buried in the future at Fort Riley Cemetery.

Mitsue Adachi Gerlaugh

Joann Stone, 76, of Junction City, KS, formerly Council Grove, KS, passed away on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at Geary Community Hospital. Cremation will take place. No memorial service is planned. Joann was born December 7, 1945, in Scotts Bluff, NE the daughter of Arthur and Ethel (Deeder) Thurman. Joann grew up in Scotts Bluff, NE and moved to Colorado where she met and married her husband Tom on January 26, 1965. Joann and Tom later moved to Commerce City, CO before they moved to Kansas. Joann worked over thirty years for Rex Materials in Council Grove. Joann and Tom enjoyed many years bowling in Council Grove. She enjoyed her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Family was her life. She spent many hours attending many sporting events cheering on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Survivors include her husband Tom of the home in Junction City, KS; two daughters, Lisa Kay Stone of Junction City, KS and DeeDee Kay Graber of Warsaw, MO; five grandchildren, James Lewis, Mandy Kaufman, Samantha Davis, Tabatha Davis and Slade Davis; five great-grandchildren, Raymond Kaufman, Oakley Jolliff, Paxton Kaufman, Knox Wulf and Hannah Sanchez; their beloved dog Kevin; one brother, Ed Thurman of Sequim, WA. She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers and three sisters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joann Stone, 76, of Junction City, KS, formerly Council Grove, KS, passed away on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at Geary Community Hospital. Cremation will take place. No memorial service is planned. Joann was born December 7, 1945, in Scotts Bluff, NE the daughter of Arthur and Ethel (Deeder) Thurman. Joann grew up in Scotts Bluff, NE and moved to Colorado where she met and married her husband Tom on January 26, 1965. Joann and Tom later moved to Commerce City, CO before they moved to Kansas. Joann worked over thirty years for Rex Materials in Council Grove. Joann and Tom enjoyed many years bowling in Council Grove. She enjoyed her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Family was her life. She spent many hours attending many sporting events cheering on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Survivors include her husband Tom of the home in Junction City, KS; two daughters, Lisa Kay Stone of Junction City, KS and DeeDee Kay Graber of Warsaw, MO; five grandchildren, James Lewis, Mandy Kaufman, Samantha Davis, Tabatha Davis and Slade Davis; five great-grandchildren, Raymond Kaufman, Oakley Jolliff, Paxton Kaufman, Knox Wulf and Hannah Sanchez; their beloved dog Kevin; one brother, Ed Thurman of Sequim, WA. She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers and three sisters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joann Stone

A full obituary will appear at a later date in care of Johnson Cremations, Funerals and Receptions.

A full obituary will appear at a later date in care of Johnson Cremations, Funerals and Receptions.

Judith "Judy" Houston - 1948 - 2022

Shawn Michael Athon, age 54, passed away Sunday, January 23, 2022 at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka.

He was born on March 3, 1967 in Topeka, the son of Daniel Edgar and Rebecca Jean (Scheibe) Athon.

He married Angela Chapman and they had two children together, Matthew and Morgan.  They later divorced.

On April 23, 2011, he married Joey (Davidson) Bishop.  She survives of Manhattan.

Shawn was a production assistant for the Goodyear Tire Company in Topeka and a member of United Steelworkers Local 307. Shawn enjoyed a variety of sports and was a true outdoorsman. In his spare time, you could find Shawn hunting, fishing, biking, and most recently he took his love of the outdoors underwater and became certified as an Open Water Diver while on a deep-sea fishing trip to Mexico.  

He was a devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, Royals, and the KU Jayhawks, although he had near-perfect attendance with Joey cheering on the KSU Wildcats football team! He was the biggest fan when it came to his children’s activities and athletics, never missing a game, tournament, or event.  Shawn developed a passion for grilling and loved sharing the fruits of his labor with family and friends.  He was a kind-hearted person who enjoyed spending time and engaging in conversation with others.

Since meeting Joey, Shawn inherited a passion for travel, accompanying her on trips to Playa del Carmen (Mexico), Ireland, Canada, Hawaii (where he learned to surf), and a number of iconic destinations throughout the U.S. 

He is survived by his wife, Joey Athon of Manhattan; his mother, Rebecca Athon of Topeka; four children, Matthew Athon and fiancé Courtney Isham of Shawnee, Morgan Waterman and husband Eric of Topeka, Madison Bishop of Manhattan, and McKenzi Bishop of Manhattan; one brother, Craig Athon of Topeka; one sister, Lisa Athon of Brentwood, Tennessee, and three grandchildren, Kaelynn, Kylie and Atticus.

He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Athon.

The family will receive visitors beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 4th at Northland Christian Church, 3102 NW Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS with a funeral service immediately following at 11 a.m. Masks are required and social distancing is strongly encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.  Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Shawn Michael Athon, age 54, passed away Sunday, January 23, 2022 at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka.He was born on March 3, 1967 in Topeka, the son of Daniel Edgar and Rebecca Jean (Scheibe) Athon.He married Angela Chapman and they had two children together, Matthew and Morgan. They later divorced.On April 23, 2011, he married Joey (Davidson) Bishop. She survives of Manhattan.Shawn was a production assistant for the Goodyear Tire Company in Topeka and a member of United Steelworkers Local 307. Shawn enjoyed a variety of sports and was a true outdoorsman. In his spare time, you could find Shawn hunting, fishing, biking, and most recently he took his love of the outdoors underwater and became certified as an Open Water Diver while on a deep-sea fishing trip to Mexico. He was a devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, Royals, and the KU Jayhawks, although he had near-perfect attendance with Joey cheering on the KSU Wildcats football team! He was the biggest fan when it came to his children’s activities and athletics, never missing a game, tournament, or event. Shawn developed a passion for grilling and loved sharing the fruits of his labor with family and friends. He was a kind-hearted person who enjoyed spending time and engaging in conversation with others.Since meeting Joey, Shawn inherited a passion for travel, accompanying her on trips to Playa del Carmen (Mexico), Ireland, Canada, Hawaii (where he learned to surf), and a number of iconic destinations throughout the U.S. He is survived by his wife, Joey Athon of Manhattan; his mother, Rebecca Athon of Topeka; four children, Matthew Athon and fiancé Courtney Isham of Shawnee, Morgan Waterman and husband Eric of Topeka, Madison Bishop of Manhattan, and McKenzi Bishop of Manhattan; one brother, Craig Athon of Topeka; one sister, Lisa Athon of Brentwood, Tennessee, and three grandchildren, Kaelynn, Kylie and Atticus.He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Athon.The family will receive visitors beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 4th at Northland Christian Church, 3102 NW Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS with a funeral service immediately following at 11 a.m. Masks are required and social distancing is strongly encouraged.In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Shawn Michael Athon

Jon Howard Allen, age 77 of Leonardville, passed away Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney, Nebraska.

He was born on March 20, 1944 in Manhattan, the son of Archie L. and Regina Margaret (Foveaux) Allen.  Following high school, he joined the U.S. Navy and was stationed in California.

On September 16, 1972 in Santee, California, he married Alice Clara Anna Clayton.  She preceded him in death in 2017.

Jon worked in the custodial department at Riley County High School for many years, retiring in 2017.  Early in his working career he was a fireman for the Manhattan Fire Department.  He enjoyed woodworking, furniture making, small construction and renovation projects, working on cars, and fishing.  Most of all, Jon loved his family.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother.

He is survived by his children, John Graham and wife Stacy of Stockton, Missouri, Jayme Thomas of Riley, Jim Graham and wife Kathy of Leonardville, Charlie Allen of Manhattan, Dan Allen and wife Sue of Leonardville, Tina Flores and husband Chepe of Leonardville, Shane Allen and wife Loree of Leonardville and Kenny Foster of Leonardville; his sisters, Patty Jensen of Manhattan and Darlene Allen of Topeka; his grandchildren, Ashley Graham, Amber Kuntzsch, Emily Graham, Randi Graham, Ryan Allen, Marco Flores, Shyanna Flores, Jim Graham, Jonathon Graham, Patience Tichener, Sarah “Sissy” Peterson, Cassi Flores, Wes March, Hannah March, Adele March, Rachel Allen, Nic Allen and Sammy Allen and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Brenda Allen Morgan and five siblings, Charles “Jim” Allen, Evelyn “Sis” Keller, Ray “Boots” Allen, Edward “Nug” Allen and Mary “Betty” Wood.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 31, 2022 at the Alert Covenant Church with Pastor Dwight Diller officiating.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Sunday at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.  Burial will be in the Leonardville City Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Jon Allen Memorial Fund and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home

Jon Howard Allen, age 77 of Leonardville, passed away Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney, Nebraska.He was born on March 20, 1944 in Manhattan, the son of Archie L. and Regina Margaret (Foveaux) Allen. Following high school, he joined the U.S. Navy and was stationed in California.On September 16, 1972 in Santee, California, he married Alice Clara Anna Clayton. She preceded him in death in 2017.Jon worked in the custodial department at Riley County High School for many years, retiring in 2017. Early in his working career he was a fireman for the Manhattan Fire Department. He enjoyed woodworking, furniture making, small construction and renovation projects, working on cars, and fishing. Most of all, Jon loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother.He is survived by his children, John Graham and wife Stacy of Stockton, Missouri, Jayme Thomas of Riley, Jim Graham and wife Kathy of Leonardville, Charlie Allen of Manhattan, Dan Allen and wife Sue of Leonardville, Tina Flores and husband Chepe of Leonardville, Shane Allen and wife Loree of Leonardville and Kenny Foster of Leonardville; his sisters, Patty Jensen of Manhattan and Darlene Allen of Topeka; his grandchildren, Ashley Graham, Amber Kuntzsch, Emily Graham, Randi Graham, Ryan Allen, Marco Flores, Shyanna Flores, Jim Graham, Jonathon Graham, Patience Tichener, Sarah “Sissy” Peterson, Cassi Flores, Wes March, Hannah March, Adele March, Rachel Allen, Nic Allen and Sammy Allen and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Brenda Allen Morgan and five siblings, Charles “Jim” Allen, Evelyn “Sis” Keller, Ray “Boots” Allen, Edward “Nug” Allen and Mary “Betty” Wood.Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 31, 2022 at the Alert Covenant Church with Pastor Dwight Diller officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Sunday at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Leonardville City Cemetery.Memorials may be made to the Jon Allen Memorial Fund and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home

Jon Howard Allen

Judith Francis Cattell, a resident at Meadowlark Hills, passed away Thursday January 20, 2022, at the Good Shepard Hospice House surrounded by her family’s love, with her son and daughter holding her hands. Judith (nee Judith Francis Boland) was born in Melrose, Massachusetts, on August 6, 1928. She graduated from Smith College in 1950, with a degree in anthropology. She married Richard Brenneman Cattell on Sept. 7, 1951 in Duxbury, Massachusetts. She was a loving mother, mother-in-law, wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted friend. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her. As one of her friends said, “She epitomized the best in aging to me - - to keep your mind and body active and engaged.” Judy enjoyed the outdoors, nurtured by her mother and many years of canoeing and camping. Her junior year of college was spent in New Mexico as an anthropology major learning about the Navajo and their symbiotic relationship to the arid southwestern environment. During Christmas break, she and a fellow student traveled to visit Mexico - almost unheard of for two young women alone at that time. She continued her outdoor adventures with Dick, backpacking in almost every wilderness area in Colorado, much of Wyoming, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska, and Hawaii. They rafted down the Colorado River, through Glen Canyon, before Glen Canyon dam was constructed; rafted the Green River from Green River, Utah to the confluence with the Colorado River; and floated the Danube from its source, to the Black sea in their rubber raft before the Berlin Wall came down. They bicycled through China on one of the first trips where Americans were allowed, trekked in the mountains of Nepal, and to Machu Pichu. Judy also embraced Dick’s love of sailing through bareboat charters in the Bahamas’, Virgin Islands and Grenadines. Some of her favorite times were watching birds and wildlife during quiet and peaceful sails in their own boat on Lake Mead in the desert southwest, and Lake Granby in the Colorado mountains. Judy had a remarkable talent for seeking out and forming connections with people of all ages and backgrounds. Mount Vernon, in the foothills west of Golden, Colorado, was home to Judy and Dick for over 50 years, where they made lifelong friendships and she touched the lives of many people of all ages. Judy had a long commitment to children and championed the importance of good, early childhood education. After college she worked as a social worker, placing children whose needs could not be met by their birth families. In Mount Vernon there was no preschool available, so she started one in her basement (often on the barter system with a horse or a piano in exchange for a child’s attendance). She taught in the Denver-area Head Start system, and returned to school to earn a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Afterwards, she instructed and mentored future teachers at several Denver-area community colleges. Throughout her life, Judy was very giving. She led a girl scout troop on the Navajo reservation, was an active volunteer for the American Friends Service Committee in Denver, and often took her own children on trips to paint houses or help families in other ways. She was an active volunteer for the Lookout Mountain Recreation Association, which sponsored ski lessons and races at the local ski hill, and made enameled small copper awards for the kids. After she retired, she volunteered at the Lookout Mountain Preserve and Nature Center as a docent. When Judy and Dick moved to Manhattan, KS, in 2011, to be closer to family, she sought out the Manhattan chapter of the Smith Club and the American Association of University Women, joined the Unitarian-Universalist church, actively supported the Music Department at Kansas State University, participated in voter registration with League of Women Voters, and very rapidly made new friends at Meadowlark Hills. Once she made a new connection, she nurtured the bond. Even during her final weeks, she enjoyed learning about the lives and aspirations of her in-home caregivers and wanted to make sure her neighbors were well. Judy was a lifelong learner, participating simultaneously in three book clubs in Mount Vernon (so when the old women passed away she would still have the younger groups), and several book clubs in Manhattan. She took advantage of any opportunity to learn, including Great Decisions and there were always stacks of books throughout her house. Judy also had her silly side. Family photos from every trip show Judy in a different (and usually distinctive and floppy) hat. On backpack trips she brought an apron, and Clorox to make sure dishes were germ free. She never passed up an opportunity to skinny dip, even off the sailboat when she was past age 80 and moored at their favorite bay on Lake Granby. Judy formed strong, caring connections with young people. Adults who grew up in Mount Vernon often comment on how she changed the course of their lives. Similarly, many of her caregivers from At Home Care and Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan describe the lasting impact she had on them. She listened thoughtfully, was never judgmental, and was supportive as they made sometimes difficult life decisions. Judy is survived by her daughter Cynthia Cattell (John Wygant), her son Eric Cattell (Connie Cattell), grandchildren Keith Wygant (married to Keely Dulmage), Alex Rowan Cattell, Elizabeth Kanost (married to Nathan Kanost), and Phillip Cattell; and great-grandchildren, Ursula Dulmage and Laszlo Dulmage. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and her brothers, Kells and Richard Boland. Memorials may be made to the Meadowlark Foundation to benefit the Good Samaritan Fund, and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan Helping Hands Fund. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Judith Francis Cattell, a resident at Meadowlark Hills, passed away Thursday January 20, 2022, at the Good Shepard Hospice House surrounded by her family’s love, with her son and daughter holding her hands. Judith (nee Judith Francis Boland) was born in Melrose, Massachusetts, on August 6, 1928. She graduated from Smith College in 1950, with a degree in anthropology. She married Richard Brenneman Cattell on Sept. 7, 1951 in Duxbury, Massachusetts. She was a loving mother, mother-in-law, wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted friend. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her. As one of her friends said, “She epitomized the best in aging to me - - to keep your mind and body active and engaged.” Judy enjoyed the outdoors, nurtured by her mother and many years of canoeing and camping. Her junior year of college was spent in New Mexico as an anthropology major learning about the Navajo and their symbiotic relationship to the arid southwestern environment. During Christmas break, she and a fellow student traveled to visit Mexico - almost unheard of for two young women alone at that time. She continued her outdoor adventures with Dick, backpacking in almost every wilderness area in Colorado, much of Wyoming, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska, and Hawaii. They rafted down the Colorado River, through Glen Canyon, before Glen Canyon dam was constructed; rafted the Green River from Green River, Utah to the confluence with the Colorado River; and floated the Danube from its source, to the Black sea in their rubber raft before the Berlin Wall came down. They bicycled through China on one of the first trips where Americans were allowed, trekked in the mountains of Nepal, and to Machu Pichu. Judy also embraced Dick’s love of sailing through bareboat charters in the Bahamas’, Virgin Islands and Grenadines. Some of her favorite times were watching birds and wildlife during quiet and peaceful sails in their own boat on Lake Mead in the desert southwest, and Lake Granby in the Colorado mountains. Judy had a remarkable talent for seeking out and forming connections with people of all ages and backgrounds. Mount Vernon, in the foothills west of Golden, Colorado, was home to Judy and Dick for over 50 years, where they made lifelong friendships and she touched the lives of many people of all ages. Judy had a long commitment to children and championed the importance of good, early childhood education. After college she worked as a social worker, placing children whose needs could not be met by their birth families. In Mount Vernon there was no preschool available, so she started one in her basement (often on the barter system with a horse or a piano in exchange for a child’s attendance). She taught in the Denver-area Head Start system, and returned to school to earn a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Afterwards, she instructed and mentored future teachers at several Denver-area community colleges. Throughout her life, Judy was very giving. She led a girl scout troop on the Navajo reservation, was an active volunteer for the American Friends Service Committee in Denver, and often took her own children on trips to paint houses or help families in other ways. She was an active volunteer for the Lookout Mountain Recreation Association, which sponsored ski lessons and races at the local ski hill, and made enameled small copper awards for the kids. After she retired, she volunteered at the Lookout Mountain Preserve and Nature Center as a docent. When Judy and Dick moved to Manhattan, KS, in 2011, to be closer to family, she sought out the Manhattan chapter of the Smith Club and the American Association of University Women, joined the Unitarian-Universalist church, actively supported the Music Department at Kansas State University, participated in voter registration with League of Women Voters, and very rapidly made new friends at Meadowlark Hills. Once she made a new connection, she nurtured the bond. Even during her final weeks, she enjoyed learning about the lives and aspirations of her in-home caregivers and wanted to make sure her neighbors were well. Judy was a lifelong learner, participating simultaneously in three book clubs in Mount Vernon (so when the old women passed away she would still have the younger groups), and several book clubs in Manhattan. She took advantage of any opportunity to learn, including Great Decisions and there were always stacks of books throughout her house. Judy also had her silly side. Family photos from every trip show Judy in a different (and usually distinctive and floppy) hat. On backpack trips she brought an apron, and Clorox to make sure dishes were germ free. She never passed up an opportunity to skinny dip, even off the sailboat when she was past age 80 and moored at their favorite bay on Lake Granby. Judy formed strong, caring connections with young people. Adults who grew up in Mount Vernon often comment on how she changed the course of their lives. Similarly, many of her caregivers from At Home Care and Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan describe the lasting impact she had on them. She listened thoughtfully, was never judgmental, and was supportive as they made sometimes difficult life decisions. Judy is survived by her daughter Cynthia Cattell (John Wygant), her son Eric Cattell (Connie Cattell), grandchildren Keith Wygant (married to Keely Dulmage), Alex Rowan Cattell, Elizabeth Kanost (married to Nathan Kanost), and Phillip Cattell; and great-grandchildren, Ursula Dulmage and Laszlo Dulmage. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and her brothers, Kells and Richard Boland. Memorials may be made to the Meadowlark Foundation to benefit the Good Samaritan Fund, and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan Helping Hands Fund. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Judith Francis Cattell

Elsie M. Staatz, age 97, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Sunday, January 23, 2022, at Pinnacle Park Nursing &amp; Rehabilitation Center in Salina, Kansas.

She was born October 27, 1924, in Ellsworth, Kansas, to Anna &amp; Walter Brown. Following high school, Elsie attended St. Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City, Missouri School of Nursing.

She graduated as a Registered Nurse on February 25, 1946 On March 9, 1948, she married Jack Staatz in Wichita, KS. They would make their home in rural Junction City. She is survived by her son, Drue (Caryn) Staatz of Woodbine, grandsons Chad (Sue) York of Salina, and Caleb (Megan) Staatz of Okinawa, Japan, four great-grandchildren, and five great, great, grandchildren.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her loving husband and daughter Kathy York.

Elsie enjoyed bird watching, spoiling her dogs, and community work. She had a green thumb and could make any plant grow. She will be remembered fondly for the many home-cooked meals that she made over the years. No one was ever turned away from her table.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 27, 2022, at Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel, Chapman, KS. There will be a graveside service and private burial at Lyona Cemetery for the immediate family. Pastor Scott Nading is officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Gideons or “Friends of Animals” in Junction City, in care of Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel, PO Box 411, Chapman, KS, 67431.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Elsie M. Staatz, age 97, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Sunday, January 23, 2022, at Pinnacle Park Nursing &amp; Rehabilitation Center in Salina, Kansas. She was born October 27, 1924, in Ellsworth, Kansas, to Anna &amp; Walter Brown. Following high school, Elsie attended St. Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City, Missouri School of Nursing. She graduated as a Registered Nurse on February 25, 1946 On March 9, 1948, she married Jack Staatz in Wichita, KS. They would make their home in rural Junction City. She is survived by her son, Drue (Caryn) Staatz of Woodbine, grandsons Chad (Sue) York of Salina, and Caleb (Megan) Staatz of Okinawa, Japan, four great-grandchildren, and five great, great, grandchildren.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her loving husband and daughter Kathy York. Elsie enjoyed bird watching, spoiling her dogs, and community work. She had a green thumb and could make any plant grow. She will be remembered fondly for the many home-cooked meals that she made over the years. No one was ever turned away from her table. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 27, 2022, at Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel, Chapman, KS. There will be a graveside service and private burial at Lyona Cemetery for the immediate family. Pastor Scott Nading is officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to the Gideons or “Friends of Animals” in Junction City, in care of Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel, PO Box 411, Chapman, KS, 67431.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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