Franc-Marie “Frankie" Holeman, 96, of Wamego, Kansas, formerly of Norton, Kansas, died Thursday, December 23, 2021, at Valley Vista Good Samaritan.

Frankie was born on May 17, 1925, in Norton, Kansas, the daughter of Arthur E. and Juanita (McCormick) Collier. She attended local school and graduated from Norton High School.

She married John L. Holeman in Norton, in February of 1944. He preceded her in death in 2005 as the result of an automobile accident.

Frankie and Johnny were farmers and ranchers, raising Shorthorn cattle and wheat. They prided themselves in the care they took with their farm animals and pets. They were members of the Fraternal Oder of Eagles. After their retirement, they moved from the farm to Norton and Frankie became involved with animal rescue. She had several rescue cats. Also, for many years Johnny and Frankie cared for their son, Lynn, who had multiple sclerosis. Lynn also preceded Frankie in death in 1999.

Frankie loved to read the Salina Journal, good books, do crossword puzzles, watch political talk shows and PBS. She was a proud lifelong Democrat who loved and respected Dwight Eisenhower. Frankie was a great cook. For years she was known throughout the family for her dark chocolate cake with fudge icing. She loved to play cards and was a fierce competitor and was known for her lively personality. Frankie was such fun to be around with a great sense of humor.

Frankie moved to California to be close to her family but after a while decided to move back home to Norton. In 2020 her apartment burned and she moved to Wamego.

Frankie is survived by her daughter, Karen Burkhardt and husband Pat of Ferndale, California, as well as many nieces and nephews and friends. Her family is especially grateful to her special nephew, David Breiner and his wife Diane, Alma, Kansas. She had many friends and caregivers in Norton, especially Angie Bird, Starr Garza, Melissa Delimont and Chelsey Huber, and her great friend of many years, Bonnie Boxler; and in Wamego. Her family will be forever grateful to them all. Frankie was also preceded in death by her parents, her grandson, John Douglas Holeman, and her brothers, Ralph Keith Collier, Kenneth Collier, and Charles Collier.

Memorial services will be held in the spring in Norton.

Franc-Marie “Frankie" Holeman, 96, of Wamego, Kansas, formerly of Norton, Kansas, died Thursday, December 23, 2021, at Valley Vista Good Samaritan.Frankie was born on May 17, 1925, in Norton, Kansas, the daughter of Arthur E. and Juanita (McCormick) Collier. She attended local school and graduated from Norton High School.She married John L. Holeman in Norton, in February of 1944. He preceded her in death in 2005 as the result of an automobile accident.Frankie and Johnny were farmers and ranchers, raising Shorthorn cattle and wheat. They prided themselves in the care they took with their farm animals and pets. They were members of the Fraternal Oder of Eagles. After their retirement, they moved from the farm to Norton and Frankie became involved with animal rescue. She had several rescue cats. Also, for many years Johnny and Frankie cared for their son, Lynn, who had multiple sclerosis. Lynn also preceded Frankie in death in 1999.Frankie loved to read the Salina Journal, good books, do crossword puzzles, watch political talk shows and PBS. She was a proud lifelong Democrat who loved and respected Dwight Eisenhower. Frankie was a great cook. For years she was known throughout the family for her dark chocolate cake with fudge icing. She loved to play cards and was a fierce competitor and was known for her lively personality. Frankie was such fun to be around with a great sense of humor.Frankie moved to California to be close to her family but after a while decided to move back home to Norton. In 2020 her apartment burned and she moved to Wamego.Frankie is survived by her daughter, Karen Burkhardt and husband Pat of Ferndale, California, as well as many nieces and nephews and friends. Her family is especially grateful to her special nephew, David Breiner and his wife Diane, Alma, Kansas. She had many friends and caregivers in Norton, especially Angie Bird, Starr Garza, Melissa Delimont and Chelsey Huber, and her great friend of many years, Bonnie Boxler; and in Wamego. Her family will be forever grateful to them all. Frankie was also preceded in death by her parents, her grandson, John Douglas Holeman, and her brothers, Ralph Keith Collier, Kenneth Collier, and Charles Collier.Memorial services will be held in the spring in Norton.

Franc-Marie “Frankie" Holeman

Mabel Neely, 95, of Westmoreland, Kansas passed away December 22, 2021 at Rolling Hills Assisted Living in Topeka, Kansas, where she had been residing for two years after moving from her home in Westmoreland.

Mabel Marie Neely was born February 28, 1926 at home in Myers Valley near Westmoreland, Kansas. Her parents were Emil Joseph Antone and Carrie Magdalena Morse Blanka Mayer. Mabel was married to Paul Edward Neely on February 9, 1946 in Manhattan, KS. He preceded her in death on June 23, 1999.

Mabel graduated from Westmoreland High School in 1944. In her early adult years, she worked as a telephone operator, hung wallpaper, and reupholstered furniture in addition to being a homemaker. In 1973 she became the bookkeeper for Neely Heating &amp; Plumbing. She enjoyed crafts and needlework including cross-stitch, embroidery, latch hook, smocking, crocheting, and knitting. Sewing clothes for herself, her daughters, grandchildren, and even her great-grandchildren brought her much joy throughout her life. Throughout her life, the quality of her work has become a lasting legacy. Home-cooked meals and desserts were another of Mabel’s specialties with the ability to remember each person’s favorite pie to bake for family gatherings. Mabel and Paul spent many years traveling, with Hawaii being her favorite destination. They visited all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, and Jamaica and would spend winters in their motorhome in Florida or Texas where they made many acquaintances. Mabel also went on two cruises in her later years visiting Cancun, Cozumel, and Belize.

Mabel was also preceded in death by her five half-brothers, Lloyd and Orville Blanka, Albert, Ed, and George Mayer; foster sister, Eleanor Bradshaw; and son-in-law, Tom Wettengel.

Mabel is survived by two daughters, Paulette (Bill) Laging, Broomfield, Colorado, and Peggy Wettengel, Topeka, Kansas; four grandchildren; three step grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and ten step great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 4, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego, Kansas.&nbsp; Family will greet friends during a visitation prior to the funeral beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in the Westmoreland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Macular Degeneration Research or the Cowboy Country Church of Wamego, and may be left in care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego, P.O. Box 48, 66547.&nbsp;Condolences may be left at www.campanellastewart.com

Mabel Neely, 95, of Westmoreland, Kansas passed away December 22, 2021 at Rolling Hills Assisted Living in Topeka, Kansas, where she had been residing for two years after moving from her home in Westmoreland.Mabel Marie Neely was born February 28, 1926 at home in Myers Valley near Westmoreland, Kansas. Her parents were Emil Joseph Antone and Carrie Magdalena Morse Blanka Mayer. Mabel was married to Paul Edward Neely on February 9, 1946 in Manhattan, KS. He preceded her in death on June 23, 1999.Mabel graduated from Westmoreland High School in 1944. In her early adult years, she worked as a telephone operator, hung wallpaper, and reupholstered furniture in addition to being a homemaker. In 1973 she became the bookkeeper for Neely Heating &amp; Plumbing. She enjoyed crafts and needlework including cross-stitch, embroidery, latch hook, smocking, crocheting, and knitting. Sewing clothes for herself, her daughters, grandchildren, and even her great-grandchildren brought her much joy throughout her life. Throughout her life, the quality of her work has become a lasting legacy. Home-cooked meals and desserts were another of Mabel’s specialties with the ability to remember each person’s favorite pie to bake for family gatherings. Mabel and Paul spent many years traveling, with Hawaii being her favorite destination. They visited all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, and Jamaica and would spend winters in their motorhome in Florida or Texas where they made many acquaintances. Mabel also went on two cruises in her later years visiting Cancun, Cozumel, and Belize.Mabel was also preceded in death by her five half-brothers, Lloyd and Orville Blanka, Albert, Ed, and George Mayer; foster sister, Eleanor Bradshaw; and son-in-law, Tom Wettengel.Mabel is survived by two daughters, Paulette (Bill) Laging, Broomfield, Colorado, and Peggy Wettengel, Topeka, Kansas; four grandchildren; three step grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and ten step great-grandchildren.Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 4, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego, Kansas.&nbsp; Family will greet friends during a visitation prior to the funeral beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in the Westmoreland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Macular Degeneration Research or the Cowboy Country Church of Wamego, and may be left in care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego, P.O. Box 48, 66547.&nbsp;Condolences may be left at www.campanellastewart.com

Mabel Neely

SFC (RET) Virlyn M. "Vic" Carter, 84, of Junction City, KS, passed away on Friday, December 24, 2021 at Salina Regional Health Center. A funeral will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at Calvary Baptist Church with Pastor Aaron Harris officiating. A visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at the Johnson Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to be given to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Virlyn was born April 23, 1937 at Bolton, GA the son of James Marion and Minnie Lee (Casey) Carter, Sr. He served in the United States Army for twenty six and a half years. He spent four years serving in Vietnam where he earned the Purple Heart. He retired from the Army on November 1, 1981. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and American Legion Post #45 both in Junction City, KS. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He married Jane Carter September 15, 1984. She survives of the home. Survivors include his wife Jane; four sons, Danny Carter of Phoenix, AZ, Bobby Humbard, Jr. of Wichita, KS, Donald Humbard of Woodbridge, VA and Virlyn Carter, II of Junction City, KS; five daughters, Diane Carter of Atlanta, GA, Margo Slocum of Manhattan, KS, Cindy Carter of Greeley, CO, Nelia Humbard of Junction City, KS and Shelly Johnson of Grandview Plaza, KS; eighteen grandchildren and twenty two great-grandchildren; many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers and four sisters.

SFC (RET) Virlyn M. "Vic" Carter, 84, of Junction City, KS, passed away on Friday, December 24, 2021 at Salina Regional Health Center. A funeral will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at Calvary Baptist Church with Pastor Aaron Harris officiating. A visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at the Johnson Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to be given to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Virlyn was born April 23, 1937 at Bolton, GA the son of James Marion and Minnie Lee (Casey) Carter, Sr. He served in the United States Army for twenty six and a half years. He spent four years serving in Vietnam where he earned the Purple Heart. He retired from the Army on November 1, 1981. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and American Legion Post #45 both in Junction City, KS. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He married Jane Carter September 15, 1984. She survives of the home. Survivors include his wife Jane; four sons, Danny Carter of Phoenix, AZ, Bobby Humbard, Jr. of Wichita, KS, Donald Humbard of Woodbridge, VA and Virlyn Carter, II of Junction City, KS; five daughters, Diane Carter of Atlanta, GA, Margo Slocum of Manhattan, KS, Cindy Carter of Greeley, CO, Nelia Humbard of Junction City, KS and Shelly Johnson of Grandview Plaza, KS; eighteen grandchildren and twenty two great-grandchildren; many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers and four sisters.

SFC (RET) Virlyn M. "Vic" Carter

Joan was born June 12, 1932 in a humble two-story farmhouse located just west of Leonardville, Kansas and was raised in a family rich in Swedish tradition. She was an accomplished pianist who could play “by ear” and served for many years as church pianist at the Leonardville United Methodist Church. As a young girl she attended a one room school completing two years of education in a single year, which enabled her to graduate from Leonardville Rural High School at the age of 16 and embark on a remarkable life of love for and service to others. In 1956 Joan married Robert William Friederich and as a young mother raised and cared for her three young children. She then accepted a part-time job with the Kansas State University Athletic Ticket Office in 1971. Shortly thereafter she filled in at the Kansas State Football office while they were in the process of hiring a new full-time secretary. Her success as a fill-in landed her the full-time position as secretary to the assistant football coaches and she was later promoted to Administrative Assistant to the Head Football Coach. Her career started in the Vince Gibson era and spanned through Coach Bill Snyder’s second term. For nearly half a century Joan built impactful and lasting relationships with hundreds of coaches, student-athletes, staff members, and boosters. The number of former coaches and players who continued to stay in contact with her following their time at K-State is evidence of the meaningful relationships she established. In 1998 the "Joan Friederich Award" was created to honor the individual, who through their unselfishness, leadership, and commitment best represents the team concept. In 1999 she was presented with the Admiral U.S. Grant Sharp Trophy in the Holiday Bowl to honor her display of "unselfish dedication and teamwork." Following a second hip break Joan was forced to retire in 2017 at the age of 84. Had it not been for the second hip break there is no doubt she would have continued working. She loved her job, and most importantly, the people around her. She was preceded in death by her father V.R. “Bill” Rosell, mother Laura Marjorie (Anderson) Rosell, and brother Bruce Neal Rosell. She is survived by her son Rick Friederich (Joni) of Bonner Springs, KS, two daughters, Nancy Friederich (Sherry) of Lee’s Summit, MO, and Janet Duncan (Kenny) of Westmoreland, KS, her granddaughter Laura Van Kirk (Kyle), two grandsons, Brad Duncan (Stephanie), and Will Friederich, and 5 great grandchildren. A visitation is scheduled from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, Wednesday January 5, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM, Thursday January 6, at the First United Methodist Church, 612 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan. Graveside services will be held at noon at the Leonardville Cemetery.

Her family asks that contributions be made in her name to the Kansas State University Athletic Department. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Joan was born June 12, 1932 in a humble two-story farmhouse located just west of Leonardville, Kansas and was raised in a family rich in Swedish tradition. She was an accomplished pianist who could play “by ear” and served for many years as church pianist at the Leonardville United Methodist Church. As a young girl she attended a one room school completing two years of education in a single year, which enabled her to graduate from Leonardville Rural High School at the age of 16 and embark on a remarkable life of love for and service to others. In 1956 Joan married Robert William Friederich and as a young mother raised and cared for her three young children. She then accepted a part-time job with the Kansas State University Athletic Ticket Office in 1971. Shortly thereafter she filled in at the Kansas State Football office while they were in the process of hiring a new full-time secretary. Her success as a fill-in landed her the full-time position as secretary to the assistant football coaches and she was later promoted to Administrative Assistant to the Head Football Coach. Her career started in the Vince Gibson era and spanned through Coach Bill Snyder’s second term. For nearly half a century Joan built impactful and lasting relationships with hundreds of coaches, student-athletes, staff members, and boosters. The number of former coaches and players who continued to stay in contact with her following their time at K-State is evidence of the meaningful relationships she established. In 1998 the "Joan Friederich Award" was created to honor the individual, who through their unselfishness, leadership, and commitment best represents the team concept. In 1999 she was presented with the Admiral U.S. Grant Sharp Trophy in the Holiday Bowl to honor her display of "unselfish dedication and teamwork." Following a second hip break Joan was forced to retire in 2017 at the age of 84. Had it not been for the second hip break there is no doubt she would have continued working. She loved her job, and most importantly, the people around her. She was preceded in death by her father V.R. “Bill” Rosell, mother Laura Marjorie (Anderson) Rosell, and brother Bruce Neal Rosell. She is survived by her son Rick Friederich (Joni) of Bonner Springs, KS, two daughters, Nancy Friederich (Sherry) of Lee’s Summit, MO, and Janet Duncan (Kenny) of Westmoreland, KS, her granddaughter Laura Van Kirk (Kyle), two grandsons, Brad Duncan (Stephanie), and Will Friederich, and 5 great grandchildren. A visitation is scheduled from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, Wednesday January 5, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM, Thursday January 6, at the First United Methodist Church, 612 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan. Graveside services will be held at noon at the Leonardville Cemetery.Her family asks that contributions be made in her name to the Kansas State University Athletic Department. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Joan Friederich

A loving, mother, grandmother, and aunt, Eva Mae Freeman went home to the Lord on Tuesday, December 21, 2021. Eva was born in Keo, Arkansas on October 5th 1922, the youngest of 12. She was raised by her Aunt after her parents passed away when she was a young child. She always called Arkansas home and would visit frequently. She kept in touch with all her nieces, nephews, and cousins, becoming the Matriarch of the family and glue that kept the family together. In adulthood, Eva was a mother to Alean and Sarah, living all over the country and world as an Army spouse. She did day work and housekeeping in hotels and hospitals. After moving to Junction City in the late 1960’s, Eva worked for Ft. Riley as a switchboard operator, at the laundry on Post, and at the Army hospital, where she retired. Deeply rooted in her faith, Eva was baptized at an early age, read her Bible faithfully, and frequently talked about going to Heaven. She was a member of Second Missionary Baptist Church in Junction City, Kansas for 50 years, where she served on the Mission Board and visited church members who were sick or shut in. She also sang in the mass choir. Outside of church she enjoyed helping others, volunteering at the Geary Community Hospital for over 20 years and was a regular visitor at Valley View Nursing home, sharing the Gospel. Eva was fiercely independent, living alone until her mid-90s, and she flew and went on road trips until she was 98. She loved to sing, was known to shake a leg on the dance floor and loved to dress up. Her favorite trip, outside of traveling to see her family, was when she visited the Holy Land in the early 90s. It was truly her trip of a lifetime, as she was baptized in the Jordan River and visited many sites in Jerusalem. Eva is preceded in death by her parents Sam and Lydia and her 11 siblings. She is survived by 4 generations born from her, something she was very proud of. Her daughters Alean and Sarah (Pev); her granddaughters Yvette, Yvonne, and Alexis (Mike); great-grand daughters Karissa, Afton, and Sarah; great-great granddaughters Zion, Neveah, and Moriah; great-great grandson Christian; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends that she loved as her own. Visitation will be held at Johnson Funeral Home 203 N. Washington Street Junction City, Kansas on Tuesday December 28th from 5-7 p.m. Masks are required. A private, family only, funeral service and burial will be held Wednesday December 29th at 11:00 a.m. Loved ones can watch the service by viewing the livestream at https://2mbjc.com/. Eva was very excited about turning 100 and having a big celebration. The family still plans to celebrate Eva with a reunion of family and friends in October of 2022.

A loving, mother, grandmother, and aunt, Eva Mae Freeman went home to the Lord on Tuesday, December 21, 2021. Eva was born in Keo, Arkansas on October 5th 1922, the youngest of 12. She was raised by her Aunt after her parents passed away when she was a young child. She always called Arkansas home and would visit frequently. She kept in touch with all her nieces, nephews, and cousins, becoming the Matriarch of the family and glue that kept the family together. In adulthood, Eva was a mother to Alean and Sarah, living all over the country and world as an Army spouse. She did day work and housekeeping in hotels and hospitals. After moving to Junction City in the late 1960’s, Eva worked for Ft. Riley as a switchboard operator, at the laundry on Post, and at the Army hospital, where she retired. Deeply rooted in her faith, Eva was baptized at an early age, read her Bible faithfully, and frequently talked about going to Heaven. She was a member of Second Missionary Baptist Church in Junction City, Kansas for 50 years, where she served on the Mission Board and visited church members who were sick or shut in. She also sang in the mass choir. Outside of church she enjoyed helping others, volunteering at the Geary Community Hospital for over 20 years and was a regular visitor at Valley View Nursing home, sharing the Gospel. Eva was fiercely independent, living alone until her mid-90s, and she flew and went on road trips until she was 98. She loved to sing, was known to shake a leg on the dance floor and loved to dress up. Her favorite trip, outside of traveling to see her family, was when she visited the Holy Land in the early 90s. It was truly her trip of a lifetime, as she was baptized in the Jordan River and visited many sites in Jerusalem. Eva is preceded in death by her parents Sam and Lydia and her 11 siblings. She is survived by 4 generations born from her, something she was very proud of. Her daughters Alean and Sarah (Pev); her granddaughters Yvette, Yvonne, and Alexis (Mike); great-grand daughters Karissa, Afton, and Sarah; great-great granddaughters Zion, Neveah, and Moriah; great-great grandson Christian; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends that she loved as her own. Visitation will be held at Johnson Funeral Home 203 N. Washington Street Junction City, Kansas on Tuesday December 28th from 5-7 p.m. Masks are required. A private, family only, funeral service and burial will be held Wednesday December 29th at 11:00 a.m. Loved ones can watch the service by viewing the livestream at https://2mbjc.com/. Eva was very excited about turning 100 and having a big celebration. The family still plans to celebrate Eva with a reunion of family and friends in October of 2022.

Eva Mae Freeman 

Daniel L. Fittro, 69, passed away on December 21, 2021. He was born on July 31, 1952 in Camp Chaffee, Arkansas to Frank and Lenora (Snow) Fittro. Dan graduated from high school in May 1970 at Lyons, Nebraska. After graduation, Dan enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and spent time at Camp Pendleton, CA; Camp Lejeune, NC; and Vietnam from 1970 to 1974. He enlisted in the Army in November 1974 and married Carol Maynard of Wahoo, NE on April 5, 1975. During their time in the Army they lived in Texas, Germany - 2 times, Virginia, and Kansas - 2 times. Dan’s last tour of duty was Desert Storm. He retired from the Army on July 31, 1991 at Fort Riley, Kansas where Dan and Carol made Junction City their permanent home. After the military Dan worked for the Geary County Sheriffs Office, the U.S. postal service and was an Owner/Operator of a semi-truck. He permanently retired in June 2008 and enjoyed staying home, riding horses, spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, riding his motorcycle, and fishing whenever he got the chance. He had a love of Nebraska football and the Kansas City Chiefs and would never miss watching a game. Dan was a member of the Chapman, KS Post 240 American Legion and the American Legion Riders. Dan is survived by his wife, Carol and 3 children: daughters Shawn (Ryan) Roberts of Scott City, KS, Rachael (Kevin) Kennedy of Overland Park, KS, son Eric Fittro of Junction City, KS and 7 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his father. A visitation will be held January 3, 2022 from 5-7 p.m. at Johnson Cremations and Funerals at 203 N Washington, Junction City, Kansas. Services will be held January 4, 2022, 11 a.m. at Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, Kansas.

Daniel L. Fittro, 69, passed away on December 21, 2021. He was born on July 31, 1952 in Camp Chaffee, Arkansas to Frank and Lenora (Snow) Fittro. Dan graduated from high school in May 1970 at Lyons, Nebraska. After graduation, Dan enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and spent time at Camp Pendleton, CA; Camp Lejeune, NC; and Vietnam from 1970 to 1974. He enlisted in the Army in November 1974 and married Carol Maynard of Wahoo, NE on April 5, 1975. During their time in the Army they lived in Texas, Germany - 2 times, Virginia, and Kansas - 2 times. Dan’s last tour of duty was Desert Storm. He retired from the Army on July 31, 1991 at Fort Riley, Kansas where Dan and Carol made Junction City their permanent home. After the military Dan worked for the Geary County Sheriffs Office, the U.S. postal service and was an Owner/Operator of a semi-truck. He permanently retired in June 2008 and enjoyed staying home, riding horses, spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, riding his motorcycle, and fishing whenever he got the chance. He had a love of Nebraska football and the Kansas City Chiefs and would never miss watching a game. Dan was a member of the Chapman, KS Post 240 American Legion and the American Legion Riders. Dan is survived by his wife, Carol and 3 children: daughters Shawn (Ryan) Roberts of Scott City, KS, Rachael (Kevin) Kennedy of Overland Park, KS, son Eric Fittro of Junction City, KS and 7 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his father. A visitation will be held January 3, 2022 from 5-7 p.m. at Johnson Cremations and Funerals at 203 N Washington, Junction City, Kansas. Services will be held January 4, 2022, 11 a.m. at Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, Kansas.

Daniel L. Fittro

Gary Gene DePew, a lifelong resident of Junction City, passed away on December 22, 2021. Gary was born on March 5th, 1940 at Fort Riley to parents Ethel and Clarence DePew. He was the third of three siblings, the older two being Doil and Margaret. He graduated from Junction City High School in 1958. One of his favorite hobbies at that time was working on cars. He bought his first car with money he earned from delivering newspapers. It was a 1936 Chevy and he loved to race it on a quarter-mile bridge on Highway 77. A friend of his set him up on a date with Kathryn Barr, the girl whom he would later marry on June 11th, 1967. Two years later on October 18th, 1969, their daughter, Julie DePew was born, followed by their son, Gary B. DePew on May 24th, 1972. Gary was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. Family always came first to him. Throughout his life, Gary held many jobs, including being a paper boy, a stock boy at a grocery store, an auto parts store clerk, a car detailer and working at his father’s gas station for many years. He was a civil service worker at Fort Riley for most of his career, and worked as a gas station attendant, a telephone repair man and in Family Housing. He would go on to earn his Journeyman’s license and become an electrician. After retiring, he and three friends purchased the Cedar Point Car Wash in Junction City. As well as being co-owner, he spent his days there helping to keep the business running smoothly. He sold his share of the car wash to his partner in 2019. Gary is survived by his wife, Kathryn; one daughter, Julie Rasmussen; one son, Gary B. DePew and his wife, Jill Martinson; one honorary son, Pete Arceo; three grandchildren, Taylor, Josslyn and Asher; one sister, Margaret Rutledge; and many nieces, nephews and friends. The funeral will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 31st, 2021 at the Johnson Funeral Home on Washington Street in Junction City. Burial will follow the funeral at Highland Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to be given to the First United Methodist Church at 804 N Jefferson Street in Junction City.

Gary Gene DePew, a lifelong resident of Junction City, passed away on December 22, 2021. Gary was born on March 5th, 1940 at Fort Riley to parents Ethel and Clarence DePew. He was the third of three siblings, the older two being Doil and Margaret. He graduated from Junction City High School in 1958. One of his favorite hobbies at that time was working on cars. He bought his first car with money he earned from delivering newspapers. It was a 1936 Chevy and he loved to race it on a quarter-mile bridge on Highway 77. A friend of his set him up on a date with Kathryn Barr, the girl whom he would later marry on June 11th, 1967. Two years later on October 18th, 1969, their daughter, Julie DePew was born, followed by their son, Gary B. DePew on May 24th, 1972. Gary was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. Family always came first to him. Throughout his life, Gary held many jobs, including being a paper boy, a stock boy at a grocery store, an auto parts store clerk, a car detailer and working at his father’s gas station for many years. He was a civil service worker at Fort Riley for most of his career, and worked as a gas station attendant, a telephone repair man and in Family Housing. He would go on to earn his Journeyman’s license and become an electrician. After retiring, he and three friends purchased the Cedar Point Car Wash in Junction City. As well as being co-owner, he spent his days there helping to keep the business running smoothly. He sold his share of the car wash to his partner in 2019. Gary is survived by his wife, Kathryn; one daughter, Julie Rasmussen; one son, Gary B. DePew and his wife, Jill Martinson; one honorary son, Pete Arceo; three grandchildren, Taylor, Josslyn and Asher; one sister, Margaret Rutledge; and many nieces, nephews and friends. The funeral will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 31st, 2021 at the Johnson Funeral Home on Washington Street in Junction City. Burial will follow the funeral at Highland Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to be given to the First United Methodist Church at 804 N Jefferson Street in Junction City.

Gary Gene DePew

Vaughn Dentan Hoffman, age 76 of Leonardville, passed away Monday, December 20, 2021 at the Leonardville Nursing Home.  

He was born on April 12, 1945 in Manhattan, the son of Forrest Elmer and Garnett Louise (Brown) Hoffman.&nbsp; On April 2, 1972 he married Lynette Sue Bulk.  They later separated.

Vaughn’s life was farming, but he was also a machinist.  He enjoyed tinkering with all sorts of projects, building trailers, collecting many different things especially smiley faces and crystals that made rainbows.  Vaughn looked forward to spending time with his grandchildren, especially taking them out for rides on the little blue golf cart.  He was an active member of the Fairview Presbyterian Church.



He is survived by his brother, Thaine Hoffman and wife Carol of Topeka; his daughter, Ivy Kennedy and husband Brock of Manhattan and two grandchildren, Kacie Lyn and Ian Douglas.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial service information is pending and will be announced later by the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Vaughn Dentan Hoffman, age 76 of Leonardville, passed away Monday, December 20, 2021 at the Leonardville Nursing Home. 

He was born on April 12, 1945 in Manhattan, the son of Forrest Elmer and Garnett Louise (Brown) Hoffman.&nbsp; On April 2, 1972 he married Lynette Sue Bulk. They later separated.

Vaughn’s life was farming, but he was also a machinist. He enjoyed tinkering with all sorts of projects, building trailers, collecting many different things especially smiley faces and crystals that made rainbows. Vaughn looked forward to spending time with his grandchildren, especially taking them out for rides on the little blue golf cart. He was an active member of the Fairview Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by his brother, Thaine Hoffman and wife Carol of Topeka; his daughter, Ivy Kennedy and husband Brock of Manhattan and two grandchildren, Kacie Lyn and Ian Douglas.

He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial service information is pending and will be announced later by the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Vaughn Dentan Hoffman

Thomas (Turbo) Dalton McGuyer, age 66 of Manhattan, passed away Monday, December 20, 2021 at his residence.  He had been battling some health issues.  

He was born on November 10, 1955 in Mexia, Texas, the son of Roger Dalton and Cora Isabell (Scott) McGuyer.

He spent most of his life in Texas before moving to be closer to his children in Kansas.  He loved being a Texan. 

Thomas worked in retail sales.  The majority of his career was in clothing and later in lumber.  He enjoyed listening to music, especially live music and his vinyl records.  He loved watching sports and he always enjoyed bantering over games and with friends over the games.  He especially enjoyed attending the College World Series.

Over the past several years, he spent a lot of time in San Diego, California visiting his brother and enjoying Southern California weather, views and time with his brother.  He truly treasured this time. 

He is survived by three children, Roger McGuyer and wife Kelly of Leonardville, Tracy Wilson and husband John of El Dorado, and Jamie McElroy and husband Eric of Amarillo, Texas; one brother, Dr. Curtis McGuyer of San Diego, California, and five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Ryan Curtis McGuyer.

Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 14, 2022 at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Cremation has taken place and inurnment will be in Belton, Texas at a later date.

Thomas (Turbo) Dalton McGuyer, age 66 of Manhattan, passed away Monday, December 20, 2021 at his residence. He had been battling some health issues. He was born on November 10, 1955 in Mexia, Texas, the son of Roger Dalton and Cora Isabell (Scott) McGuyer.He spent most of his life in Texas before moving to be closer to his children in Kansas. He loved being a Texan. Thomas worked in retail sales. The majority of his career was in clothing and later in lumber. He enjoyed listening to music, especially live music and his vinyl records. He loved watching sports and he always enjoyed bantering over games and with friends over the games. He especially enjoyed attending the College World Series.Over the past several years, he spent a lot of time in San Diego, California visiting his brother and enjoying Southern California weather, views and time with his brother. He truly treasured this time. He is survived by three children, Roger McGuyer and wife Kelly of Leonardville, Tracy Wilson and husband John of El Dorado, and Jamie McElroy and husband Eric of Amarillo, Texas; one brother, Dr. Curtis McGuyer of San Diego, California, and five grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Ryan Curtis McGuyer.Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 14, 2022 at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.Cremation has taken place and inurnment will be in Belton, Texas at a later date.

Thomas (Turbo) Dalton McGuyer

Donald Gary Hitsman, 71 died December 22, 2021, in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; He was born on December 1, 1950, in Clay Center, the son of Donald V. and Norma (Kubic) Hitsman.&nbsp; Don was raised in the Clay Center community and was a graduate of CCCHS Class of 1968.&nbsp; Following graduation, he served in the US Army.&nbsp; Don returned to Clay Center and worked as a roofer for many years.&nbsp; He was a member of the American Legion Post 101 and Eagles Lodge 3650.&nbsp; Don was preceded in death by his parents and sons, Joshua Hitsman and Jamie Hitsman.

Sister: Sharon and husband Don Brown of Garnett, KS

Brother: Ted and wife Vicky Hitsman of Clay Center, KS

Brother: Terry and wife Anna Hitsman of Tulsa, OK

Graveside Services: 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at Broughton Cemetery in Clay County, KS with military honors

Visitation: 5-7 p.m.&nbsp; Monday, December 27, 2021, at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home

Memorials:&nbsp; American Legion Youth Fund or Eagles Lodge 3650 c/o the funeral home

Donald Gary Hitsman, 71 died December 22, 2021, in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; He was born on December 1, 1950, in Clay Center, the son of Donald V. and Norma (Kubic) Hitsman.&nbsp; Don was raised in the Clay Center community and was a graduate of CCCHS Class of 1968.&nbsp; Following graduation, he served in the US Army.&nbsp; Don returned to Clay Center and worked as a roofer for many years.&nbsp; He was a member of the American Legion Post 101 and Eagles Lodge 3650.&nbsp; Don was preceded in death by his parents and sons, Joshua Hitsman and Jamie Hitsman.Survivors:Sister: Sharon and husband Don Brown of Garnett, KSBrother: Ted and wife Vicky Hitsman of Clay Center, KSSister: Connie Smith of Clay Center, KSBrother: Terry and wife Anna Hitsman of Tulsa, OKBrother: Frank Hitsman of Topeka, KSGraveside Services: 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at Broughton Cemetery in Clay County, KS with military honorsVisitation: 5-7 p.m.&nbsp; Monday, December 27, 2021, at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral HomeMemorials:&nbsp; American Legion Youth Fund or Eagles Lodge 3650 c/o the funeral home

Donald Gary Hitsman

The Reverend, Dr. Marion Ross Kirk, age 84, died December 20, 2021, at his home in Wakefield, Kansas. He was born April 14, 1937, to Walter Marion and Mary Catherine (Ross) Kirk in Kansas City, Kansas. Ross was a graduate of Junction City High School. He attended Wartburg University in Iowa until his senior year, when he was drafted into the Army. Upon his return from duty, Ross finished his college degree and attended Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana.&nbsp; He married Judith Olson on March 18, 1961. Ross was called back in 1965 to serve as a Chaplain in the United States Army, earning several awards and commendations, until his retirement in 1988. Ross and Judy made their home in Wakefield, Kansas. He pastored at several churches in the area and was the Executive Director of the Milford Lake Ministries, Inc. for 48 consecutive years. Ross was a member of the VFW and attended the Mizpah United Methodist Church in Wakefield. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Daughter: Heather and husband Joe Schriner of Albuquerque, NM

7 Grandchildren and 2 Great Grandchildren

Visitation: Monday, December 27, 2021 from 4-6 PM at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home in Clay Center, KS

Funeral Services: 10:30 AM Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at the Wakefield United Methodist Church, Wakefield, KS

Military Honors provided by Fort Riley Honor Guard and Wakefield VFW

The Reverend, Dr. Marion Ross Kirk, age 84, died December 20, 2021, at his home in Wakefield, Kansas. He was born April 14, 1937, to Walter Marion and Mary Catherine (Ross) Kirk in Kansas City, Kansas. Ross was a graduate of Junction City High School. He attended Wartburg University in Iowa until his senior year, when he was drafted into the Army. Upon his return from duty, Ross finished his college degree and attended Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana.&nbsp; He married Judith Olson on March 18, 1961. Ross was called back in 1965 to serve as a Chaplain in the United States Army, earning several awards and commendations, until his retirement in 1988. Ross and Judy made their home in Wakefield, Kansas. He pastored at several churches in the area and was the Executive Director of the Milford Lake Ministries, Inc. for 48 consecutive years. Ross was a member of the VFW and attended the Mizpah United Methodist Church in Wakefield. He is preceded in death by his parents.SurvivorsWife: Judith Kirk of Wakefield, KSDaughter: Holly Fowler of Wakefield, KSDaughter: Heather and husband Joe Schriner of Albuquerque, NMSon: Kendall Kirk of Minneapolis, KSSon: Jon and wife Mikala of Caney, KS7 Grandchildren and 2 Great GrandchildrenVisitation: Monday, December 27, 2021 from 4-6 PM at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home in Clay Center, KSFuneral Services: 10:30 AM Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at the Wakefield United Methodist Church, Wakefield, KSBurial: Highland Cemetery, Wakefield, KSMilitary Honors provided by Fort Riley Honor Guard and Wakefield VFW

The Reverend, Dr. Marion Ross Kirk

Delores M. Peck passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2021 at the Salina Regional Medical Center in Salina. She was born October 18, 1954 in Greenville, South Carolina the daughter of Gail and Fern (McIlvain) Emerick. A longtime resident of the area, Delores graduated from Chapman High School with the class of 1972 and graduated from Emporia Vocational College with a dental assistant degree. She was a dental assistant for many years in the Abilene area. Delores enjoyed crafts, raising Boston Terriers, babysitting, but especially loved being with her family. On September 8, 1973 she married Merle Peck in Chapman. He survives of the home. Other survivors include her son Jason Peck and his wife Theresa of Abilene, her daughter Marla and her husband Kyle Griffis of Enterprise sisters Donna Gowen and her husband James of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, Dulce Royal of Fayetteville, Arkansas, sister-in-law Nancy LaRocque of Junction City, Kansas, and four grandchildren Noah, Sam, Ben, and Angie. She was preceded in death by her sister Dawn “LaRouche” and her parents. Funeral services for Delores will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at the First Christian Church in Abilene with Pastor Jason Kohler officiating. Her final resting place will be in the Mt. Hope Cemetery near Enterprise. Delores’s family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to the First Christian Church and may be sent in care of the Danner Funeral Home, 501 N. Buckeye, Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Delores M. Peck passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2021 at the Salina Regional Medical Center in Salina. She was born October 18, 1954 in Greenville, South Carolina the daughter of Gail and Fern (McIlvain) Emerick. A longtime resident of the area, Delores graduated from Chapman High School with the class of 1972 and graduated from Emporia Vocational College with a dental assistant degree. She was a dental assistant for many years in the Abilene area. Delores enjoyed crafts, raising Boston Terriers, babysitting, but especially loved being with her family. On September 8, 1973 she married Merle Peck in Chapman. He survives of the home. Other survivors include her son Jason Peck and his wife Theresa of Abilene, her daughter Marla and her husband Kyle Griffis of Enterprise sisters Donna Gowen and her husband James of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, Dulce Royal of Fayetteville, Arkansas, sister-in-law Nancy LaRocque of Junction City, Kansas, and four grandchildren Noah, Sam, Ben, and Angie. She was preceded in death by her sister Dawn “LaRouche” and her parents. Funeral services for Delores will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at the First Christian Church in Abilene with Pastor Jason Kohler officiating. Her final resting place will be in the Mt. Hope Cemetery near Enterprise. Delores’s family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to the First Christian Church and may be sent in care of the Danner Funeral Home, 501 N. Buckeye, Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Delores M. Peck 

Wanda Fae Murphy passed away December 23, 2021 at Chapman Valley Manor. Wanda was born April 15, 1922 near Navarre, KS, the daughter of Lena (Eddy) and William Claude Bowden. She graduated from Dickinson County Community High School in 1939. On October 17, 1943, she was married to John Murphy. They farmed and made their home near Navarre for 66 years before moving to Chapman, Kansas. Wanda was a member of the Navarre Church of the Brethren, New Basel United Church of Christ, and Chapman United Methodist Church. Besides being a farm wife, she was a member of the local EHU, served on the election board, bus driver for many years and always there for her family. She was known to be a great cook and her fried chicken was the family favorite. Wanda is survived by children Jerry (Mary) Murphy of Omaha, Nebraska; Janet (Bob) Meyer of Chapman; and Kevin (Lynne) Murphy of Hope. Grandchildren: Stacey Combes (Brian) of Abilene; Shane Meyer of St. Joe, Missouri; Sean Murphy (Kelli) of Detroit, Michigan; Jacob Murphy (Ricky Gutierrez) of Chicago, Illinois; Megan McDugald (Jim) of Nashville, TN; Kyle Murphy (Kirsten Zenner) of Newton; Dane Murphy of Dallas, Texas; and Jenna Bentrop (Brian) of Blue Springs, Missouri. Great grandchildren: Hunter and Talon Combes, Kinsey and Chase Meyer, Avery and Clay McDugald and Blake Bentrop. Great great grandchild: Coralynn Combes. Preceding her in death were her parents, husband John in 2011 and sister Zola Mae Morgan. Services for Wanda will be Tuesday, December 28 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Chapman, Kansas. Family will receive friends Monday, December 27 from 5-7 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, Chapman, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to Chapman Valley Manor or Navarre Community Center. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel, PO Box 411, Chapman, Kansas 67451.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wanda Fae Murphy passed away December 23, 2021 at Chapman Valley Manor. Wanda was born April 15, 1922 near Navarre, KS, the daughter of Lena (Eddy) and William Claude Bowden. She graduated from Dickinson County Community High School in 1939. On October 17, 1943, she was married to John Murphy. They farmed and made their home near Navarre for 66 years before moving to Chapman, Kansas. Wanda was a member of the Navarre Church of the Brethren, New Basel United Church of Christ, and Chapman United Methodist Church. Besides being a farm wife, she was a member of the local EHU, served on the election board, bus driver for many years and always there for her family. She was known to be a great cook and her fried chicken was the family favorite. Wanda is survived by children Jerry (Mary) Murphy of Omaha, Nebraska; Janet (Bob) Meyer of Chapman; and Kevin (Lynne) Murphy of Hope. Grandchildren: Stacey Combes (Brian) of Abilene; Shane Meyer of St. Joe, Missouri; Sean Murphy (Kelli) of Detroit, Michigan; Jacob Murphy (Ricky Gutierrez) of Chicago, Illinois; Megan McDugald (Jim) of Nashville, TN; Kyle Murphy (Kirsten Zenner) of Newton; Dane Murphy of Dallas, Texas; and Jenna Bentrop (Brian) of Blue Springs, Missouri. Great grandchildren: Hunter and Talon Combes, Kinsey and Chase Meyer, Avery and Clay McDugald and Blake Bentrop. Great great grandchild: Coralynn Combes. Preceding her in death were her parents, husband John in 2011 and sister Zola Mae Morgan. Services for Wanda will be Tuesday, December 28 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Chapman, Kansas. Family will receive friends Monday, December 27 from 5-7 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, Chapman, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to Chapman Valley Manor or Navarre Community Center. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel, PO Box 411, Chapman, Kansas 67451.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wanda Fae Murphy 

Michael H. Pantano, 57 of Abilene passed away December 19, 2021 at Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, KS. He was born January 16, 1964 in Fort Carson, Colorado, the son of Michael G. and Catherine (Hamlett) Pantano. On June 2, 1984 he was united in marriage to Sarah M. Whitney in Baldwin City, Kansas. She survives of the home.&nbsp; Mike worked for Grain Belt Supply Inc. in powder coat maintenance. He also worked 24 years in the auto body service. Mike was a member of the World Fast Draw Association, First Southern Baptist Church and was an enthusiastic fisherman.

 Mike is survived by his loving wife Sarah of the home. Sister-in-laws: Martha (James) Wright; Naomi (Steve) Burgress both of Baldwin City, Kansas and Ruth (Earl) Peine of Garnett, Kansas and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Services for Mike will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at the First Southern Baptist Church in Abilene with Pastor David Parker officiating. Services will be live streamed on Facebook at FSBCAbilene at 10:30 a.m.

Graveside services will be 3:00 p.m., Tuesday at Oakwood Cemetery in Baldwin City, Kansas. Family will receive friends Monday evening from 5-7 p.m. at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home in Abilene. The family suggests memorials be given to the First Southern Baptist Church or to the World Fast Draw Association. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third ST., Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Michael H. Pantano, 57 of Abilene passed away December 19, 2021 at Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, KS. He was born January 16, 1964 in Fort Carson, Colorado, the son of Michael G. and Catherine (Hamlett) Pantano. On June 2, 1984 he was united in marriage to Sarah M. Whitney in Baldwin City, Kansas. She survives of the home.&nbsp; Mike worked for Grain Belt Supply Inc. in powder coat maintenance. He also worked 24 years in the auto body service. Mike was a member of the World Fast Draw Association, First Southern Baptist Church and was an enthusiastic fisherman. Mike is survived by his loving wife Sarah of the home. Sister-in-laws: Martha (James) Wright; Naomi (Steve) Burgress both of Baldwin City, Kansas and Ruth (Earl) Peine of Garnett, Kansas and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.Services for Mike will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at the First Southern Baptist Church in Abilene with Pastor David Parker officiating. Services will be live streamed on Facebook at FSBCAbilene at 10:30 a.m.Graveside services will be 3:00 p.m., Tuesday at Oakwood Cemetery in Baldwin City, Kansas. Family will receive friends Monday evening from 5-7 p.m. at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home in Abilene. The family suggests memorials be given to the First Southern Baptist Church or to the World Fast Draw Association. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third ST., Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Michael H. Pantano

Gerald Dale “Jerry” Fournier, age 85, of Manhattan, died December 20, 2021, at the Colmery-O’Neil VAMC in Topeka. He was born September 21, 1936, in Missoula, Montana, and was adopted by Joseph and Nina (Brown) Fournier, and had been a permanent resident of Manhattan since 1995. Jerry served for four years in the United States Navy and then had a thirty-year career with Southwestern Bell as a manager. He then worked as a financial planner for many years until his full retirement. He was a member of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan and was very active in his church in Atchison and Wichita prior to moving to Manhattan. He had served on his Homeowners Association Board, was active in the Chamber of Commerce in Wichita and Manhattan, a member of the Rotary Club, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Jerry enjoyed working out, traveling, swimming, fishing, watercolor painting nature scenes and barns, going for drives to enjoy the beautiful scenery, and most especially spending time with his family and going to all his grandchildren’s activities. He would tell us daily how blessed he was to have the family that he had. He was married to Rosalie Katherine Simon on September 2, 1961, in Colwich, KS. Rosalie preceded him in death on March 3, 2006. He was also preceded in death by his son Joseph Edward Fournier on January 29, 2001, his son-in-law Mark Stich, and by two sisters: Loretta and Sylvia. Survivors include his three daughters: Kim Stich of Manhattan, Karen Ekart and her husband Tim of Manhattan, and Kristine “Kris” Dillon and her husband Tommy of Manhattan; seven grandchildren: Katy Ann Stich, Joe Ekart (Emily), Kelsy Strong (Calin), Lindsy Ekart, Tyler, Cole and Chase Dillon; and six great-grandchildren: William, T.J., Claire, Mike and Brookie Ekart, and Cori Strong. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 28th, at Seven Dolors Catholic Church with Father Ryan McCandless as Celebrant. Interment will follow in Valley View Memorial Park east of Manhattan. The family will receive friends Monday, December 27th, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. followed by a Parish Vigil at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.&nbsp; Memorial contributions may be made to the Jerry Fournier Memorial Fund for improvements at Valley View Memorial Park. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gerald Dale “Jerry” Fournier, age 85, of Manhattan, died December 20, 2021, at the Colmery-O’Neil VAMC in Topeka. He was born September 21, 1936, in Missoula, Montana, and was adopted by Joseph and Nina (Brown) Fournier, and had been a permanent resident of Manhattan since 1995. Jerry served for four years in the United States Navy and then had a thirty-year career with Southwestern Bell as a manager. He then worked as a financial planner for many years until his full retirement. He was a member of Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan and was very active in his church in Atchison and Wichita prior to moving to Manhattan. He had served on his Homeowners Association Board, was active in the Chamber of Commerce in Wichita and Manhattan, a member of the Rotary Club, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Jerry enjoyed working out, traveling, swimming, fishing, watercolor painting nature scenes and barns, going for drives to enjoy the beautiful scenery, and most especially spending time with his family and going to all his grandchildren’s activities. He would tell us daily how blessed he was to have the family that he had. He was married to Rosalie Katherine Simon on September 2, 1961, in Colwich, KS. Rosalie preceded him in death on March 3, 2006. He was also preceded in death by his son Joseph Edward Fournier on January 29, 2001, his son-in-law Mark Stich, and by two sisters: Loretta and Sylvia. Survivors include his three daughters: Kim Stich of Manhattan, Karen Ekart and her husband Tim of Manhattan, and Kristine “Kris” Dillon and her husband Tommy of Manhattan; seven grandchildren: Katy Ann Stich, Joe Ekart (Emily), Kelsy Strong (Calin), Lindsy Ekart, Tyler, Cole and Chase Dillon; and six great-grandchildren: William, T.J., Claire, Mike and Brookie Ekart, and Cori Strong. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 28th, at Seven Dolors Catholic Church with Father Ryan McCandless as Celebrant. Interment will follow in Valley View Memorial Park east of Manhattan. The family will receive friends Monday, December 27th, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. followed by a Parish Vigil at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.&nbsp; Memorial contributions may be made to the Jerry Fournier Memorial Fund for improvements at Valley View Memorial Park. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gerald Dale “Jerry” Fournier

Joanne Barkyoumb, 90, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away Friday, December 17, 2021, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan from complications following hip replacement surgery. She was born on August 29, 1931, in Manhattan, Kansas, the firstborn of J.Byron and Helen (Glunt) Brooks. A lifetime area resident, Joanne had fond memories and stories about growing up in rural Garrison, Kansas in the 1930’s and 40’s. She helped on the family farm and enjoyed riding her pony Tony with her brother Jim. Joanne always preferred outside work and play to staying indoors. She graduated as Valedictorian from Randolph Rural High School in 1949 and attended Kansas State College of Agriculture and Applied Science (now Kansas State University). She was a Pi Beta Phi member and remained active for decades following her college years. On January 30, 1954, she married Dale F. Barkyoumb. He preceded her in death on May 11, 2001, after 47 years of marriage. Dale and Joanne made their lifelong home in Manhattan where they raised three children: Steve, Susan, and Mike. Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church was a very important part of Joanne’s life – worship, choir, weddings, circles, and many other celebrations were held there. She was on the Meadowlark Hills Board of Trustees during its early formative years and was proud of the national recognition it gained. Joanne moved into Meadowlark Hills Independent Living in 2018 and continuously praised the organization’s dedication to caring for its residents, particularly during the pandemic. Kansas State sports were also an important part of Joanne’s life. She and Dale held season football tickets since the stadium opened in 1968 and rarely missed a game. Joanne loved tailgating with family and cheering on her Wildcats! She looked so beautiful in purple, especially with her gorgeous grey hair. Joanne’s passion for people was evident in the joy she expressed in being with her family and friends, meeting new people, participating in numerous social groups and activities, and traveling the world with friends. She was always helpful, loving, content, quick to smile, full of stories and proud of her family. Joanne was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter and son-in-law Susan and Brian Abramovitz, brother and sister-in-law James B. and Vivian (Young) Brooks, and nephew Bill Brooks. Joanne is survived by two sons and their spouses Steve and Joni Barkyoumb, of Wooster, Ohio and Mike and Melissa Barkyoumb, of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her grandchildren include Cammie (Brian) Burgett, Bryan Barkyoumb, Carrie (Andy) Palmer, Becky (Matt) Benoit, Laura (Drew) Yunghans, Sarah (Tyler) Lucas, and David Barkyoumb. She is also survived by eleven great-grandchildren and her niece Kathy (Harwood) Shawver. A Memorial Service and Celebration of Joanne’s Life will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at 2:00 pm in the Prairie Star Event Center at Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan, Kansas. Interment will be next to her husband Dale in Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church of Manhattan or the Meadowlark Foundation to benefit its Good Samaritan Fund. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joanne Barkyoumb, 90, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away Friday, December 17, 2021, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan from complications following hip replacement surgery. She was born on August 29, 1931, in Manhattan, Kansas, the firstborn of J.Byron and Helen (Glunt) Brooks. A lifetime area resident, Joanne had fond memories and stories about growing up in rural Garrison, Kansas in the 1930’s and 40’s. She helped on the family farm and enjoyed riding her pony Tony with her brother Jim. Joanne always preferred outside work and play to staying indoors. She graduated as Valedictorian from Randolph Rural High School in 1949 and attended Kansas State College of Agriculture and Applied Science (now Kansas State University). She was a Pi Beta Phi member and remained active for decades following her college years. On January 30, 1954, she married Dale F. Barkyoumb. He preceded her in death on May 11, 2001, after 47 years of marriage. Dale and Joanne made their lifelong home in Manhattan where they raised three children: Steve, Susan, and Mike. Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church was a very important part of Joanne’s life – worship, choir, weddings, circles, and many other celebrations were held there. She was on the Meadowlark Hills Board of Trustees during its early formative years and was proud of the national recognition it gained. Joanne moved into Meadowlark Hills Independent Living in 2018 and continuously praised the organization’s dedication to caring for its residents, particularly during the pandemic. Kansas State sports were also an important part of Joanne’s life. She and Dale held season football tickets since the stadium opened in 1968 and rarely missed a game. Joanne loved tailgating with family and cheering on her Wildcats! She looked so beautiful in purple, especially with her gorgeous grey hair. Joanne’s passion for people was evident in the joy she expressed in being with her family and friends, meeting new people, participating in numerous social groups and activities, and traveling the world with friends. She was always helpful, loving, content, quick to smile, full of stories and proud of her family. Joanne was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter and son-in-law Susan and Brian Abramovitz, brother and sister-in-law James B. and Vivian (Young) Brooks, and nephew Bill Brooks. Joanne is survived by two sons and their spouses Steve and Joni Barkyoumb, of Wooster, Ohio and Mike and Melissa Barkyoumb, of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her grandchildren include Cammie (Brian) Burgett, Bryan Barkyoumb, Carrie (Andy) Palmer, Becky (Matt) Benoit, Laura (Drew) Yunghans, Sarah (Tyler) Lucas, and David Barkyoumb. She is also survived by eleven great-grandchildren and her niece Kathy (Harwood) Shawver. A Memorial Service and Celebration of Joanne’s Life will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at 2:00 pm in the Prairie Star Event Center at Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan, Kansas. Interment will be next to her husband Dale in Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church of Manhattan or the Meadowlark Foundation to benefit its Good Samaritan Fund. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joanne Barkyoumb

Robert “Bob” Mitchell Parker passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 17, 2021 at the age of 71 at Ascension Via Christi Village Manhattan, KS. Bob was born on September 10, 1950, in Springfield, Tennessee to Laverne (Cooksey) Parker and Elmore Parker. He attended school in Cedar Hill Tennessee and as a child he enjoyed football, fishing and hunting. After graduating from Jo Byrnes High School in 1968, he married and had two children, a daughter Tonya and son Jamie. He was drafted into the United States Army, serving his country in Germany, at Fort Knox and Fort Riley amongst others. He later divorced and in 1972 he married Nora Dutton, daughter of Orville and Louise Dutton of Jamestown KS. They had three sons, Jeremy, Sean, and Patrick and after living in Germany, Watertown, NY, and Pleasant View, TN, they made their home in Manhattan KS. When he completed his time with regular Army, Bob spent the rest of his working life in construction and the Army National Guard. He enjoyed watching his favorite NFL team, the Miami Dolphins, until end zone dancing squashed his love for the NFL. His loyalties switched to college football and the K-State Wildcats, watching almost every game. He enjoyed western movies, fishing, hunting, Louis L’Amour books, target-shooting, visiting with National Guard friends and other veterans, playing cards, and spending time with family, often teaching his many nieces and nephews the finer points of playing pitch, blackjack, and shooting clay pigeons. He is preceded in death by both of his parents and his brother Wayne. He is survived by his sister Angie (Tommie) Parker-Quigley and brothers Ronnie (Tina) Parker and Kim Webster. He is also survived by his daughter Tonya Parker-Phillippe, son Jamie (Kim) Parker and his grandchildren Derick, Jordan, Randi, Shelby, Colton and five great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Nora and sons Jeremy (Jaime) Parker, Sean (Susanne) Parker, and Patrick (Amanda) Parker, his grandchildren Austin, Kaylyn, Cole (Alyssa), Landon, Cody, Gavin, Kieran, five great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and uncles. Services will be at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home on December 30 at 10:00. Family will receive visitors December 29 from 6:00 - 7:00pm at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Vineyard Church, Manhattan, KS or the VFW. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Robert “Bob” Mitchell Parker passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 17, 2021 at the age of 71 at Ascension Via Christi Village Manhattan, KS. Bob was born on September 10, 1950, in Springfield, Tennessee to Laverne (Cooksey) Parker and Elmore Parker. He attended school in Cedar Hill Tennessee and as a child he enjoyed football, fishing and hunting. After graduating from Jo Byrnes High School in 1968, he married and had two children, a daughter Tonya and son Jamie. He was drafted into the United States Army, serving his country in Germany, at Fort Knox and Fort Riley amongst others. He later divorced and in 1972 he married Nora Dutton, daughter of Orville and Louise Dutton of Jamestown KS. They had three sons, Jeremy, Sean, and Patrick and after living in Germany, Watertown, NY, and Pleasant View, TN, they made their home in Manhattan KS. When he completed his time with regular Army, Bob spent the rest of his working life in construction and the Army National Guard. He enjoyed watching his favorite NFL team, the Miami Dolphins, until end zone dancing squashed his love for the NFL. His loyalties switched to college football and the K-State Wildcats, watching almost every game. He enjoyed western movies, fishing, hunting, Louis L’Amour books, target-shooting, visiting with National Guard friends and other veterans, playing cards, and spending time with family, often teaching his many nieces and nephews the finer points of playing pitch, blackjack, and shooting clay pigeons. He is preceded in death by both of his parents and his brother Wayne. He is survived by his sister Angie (Tommie) Parker-Quigley and brothers Ronnie (Tina) Parker and Kim Webster. He is also survived by his daughter Tonya Parker-Phillippe, son Jamie (Kim) Parker and his grandchildren Derick, Jordan, Randi, Shelby, Colton and five great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Nora and sons Jeremy (Jaime) Parker, Sean (Susanne) Parker, and Patrick (Amanda) Parker, his grandchildren Austin, Kaylyn, Cole (Alyssa), Landon, Cody, Gavin, Kieran, five great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and uncles. Services will be at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home on December 30 at 10:00. Family will receive visitors December 29 from 6:00 - 7:00pm at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Vineyard Church, Manhattan, KS or the VFW. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Robert "Bob” Mitchell Parker 

Marie G. Stanton, age 83, of Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan died peacefully at the Good Shepherd Hospice on December 22, 2021 after a brief illness. Marie was born in Spotswood, NJ in 1938 to Joseph P. Szymanski and Gertrude Lisiewicz Szymanski. She attended public schools in Spotswood and South River NJ, and graduated with honors in Spanish Education from Douglass College of Rutgers University in 1960. At Rutgers she met her future husband Noel on a blind date. They married on June 16, 1962. She taught high school Spanish in Somerville NJ, worked as a bilingual secretary at Johnson and Johnson, and was trilingual secretary to the Romance Literature Department at Cornell University in Ithaca NY, a post she especially enjoyed. Marie and Noel lived in Columbus OH for 25 years and raised two sons there. In 1993 they moved to Manhattan, where Marie was a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels for many years. They have been at Meadowlark since 2019. Marie was an enthusiastic ballroom dancer and longtime member of the Dance 2000 club. She also loved birding, and took great delight when unusual birds came to her backyard. The Adirondack Park in northern New York was one of Marie's favorite places. When her family was young, she enjoyed summer cabin vacations there. In later years, she looked forward to cool autumn getaways with her husband. She loved hiking in the woods, especially when the leaves were turning, and antique browsing in small mountain towns. In Kansas, she never tired of the view of the lake and the Flint Hills from her kitchen window, or of the wildlife that often came by. She is survived by her husband Noel Stanton of Manhattan; by her sons David Stanton of Palo Alto CA and Christopher Stanton of Los Angeles; by her sister Jean Gretch and her brother Joseph Szymanski Jr. of Spotswood NJ; and by ten nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. No memorial service is scheduled at this time. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, friends donate to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.

Marie G. Stanton, age 83, of Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan died peacefully at the Good Shepherd Hospice on December 22, 2021 after a brief illness. Marie was born in Spotswood, NJ in 1938 to Joseph P. Szymanski and Gertrude Lisiewicz Szymanski. She attended public schools in Spotswood and South River NJ, and graduated with honors in Spanish Education from Douglass College of Rutgers University in 1960. At Rutgers she met her future husband Noel on a blind date. They married on June 16, 1962. She taught high school Spanish in Somerville NJ, worked as a bilingual secretary at Johnson and Johnson, and was trilingual secretary to the Romance Literature Department at Cornell University in Ithaca NY, a post she especially enjoyed. Marie and Noel lived in Columbus OH for 25 years and raised two sons there. In 1993 they moved to Manhattan, where Marie was a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels for many years. They have been at Meadowlark since 2019. Marie was an enthusiastic ballroom dancer and longtime member of the Dance 2000 club. She also loved birding, and took great delight when unusual birds came to her backyard. The Adirondack Park in northern New York was one of Marie's favorite places. When her family was young, she enjoyed summer cabin vacations there. In later years, she looked forward to cool autumn getaways with her husband. She loved hiking in the woods, especially when the leaves were turning, and antique browsing in small mountain towns. In Kansas, she never tired of the view of the lake and the Flint Hills from her kitchen window, or of the wildlife that often came by. She is survived by her husband Noel Stanton of Manhattan; by her sons David Stanton of Palo Alto CA and Christopher Stanton of Los Angeles; by her sister Jean Gretch and her brother Joseph Szymanski Jr. of Spotswood NJ; and by ten nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. No memorial service is scheduled at this time. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, friends donate to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.

Marie G. Stanton

Elise Ballard, 15 of Manhattan, passed away surrounded by her family in the early morning hours of Christmas Day. Elise was born August 16, 2006, in Junction City, Kansas. Elise was born a neurotypical baby and was as sweet, caring, onery and funny as her family could ever hope for. At age three she was diagnosed with leukemia and that diagnosis would forever change the trajectory of her life. While being free from cancer for more than 10 years, Elise would always deal with the effects of a brain infection that she acquired during cancer treatment. Her seizure disorder and developmental delays provided many extra challenges for her and her family. Throughout all her challenges, Elise managed to impact the lives of all of those that met her. She had a smile that would light up any room. While a rare occurrence, her belly laugh could put a smile on the face of anyone who heard it. She was quick to hold your hand, smirk at you, comply with whatever you requested, and pretend that she was asleep if she didn’t want to participate in whatever was happening. Among her favorite things to do were to steal the glasses of the people who were helping her, pull off the masks of those around her, and grab ahold of any loose hanging badges, phones, or keys. Elise is survived by her parents Tony and Kelly Ballard and her younger sister Abby of Manhattan. Additionally, she is survived by her maternal grandparents Dennis and Sue Cavinaw, Lenexa, KS, Uncle Jeff Cavinaw, Kansas City, MO, Aunt Briana Cavinaw, Lansing, KS, Aunt Lorry Ballard, Hutchinson, KS, Aunt Val Coltharp, Manhattan, KS, Uncle Don and Aunt Tammy Ballard, Junction City, KS and numerous cousins near and far. Elise was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents Gene and Martha Ballard and Uncle Tony (TC) Coltharp. Funeral arrangements are pending.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Elise Ballard, 15 of Manhattan, passed away surrounded by her family in the early morning hours of Christmas Day. Elise was born August 16, 2006, in Junction City, Kansas. Elise was born a neurotypical baby and was as sweet, caring, onery and funny as her family could ever hope for. At age three she was diagnosed with leukemia and that diagnosis would forever change the trajectory of her life. While being free from cancer for more than 10 years, Elise would always deal with the effects of a brain infection that she acquired during cancer treatment. Her seizure disorder and developmental delays provided many extra challenges for her and her family. Throughout all her challenges, Elise managed to impact the lives of all of those that met her. She had a smile that would light up any room. While a rare occurrence, her belly laugh could put a smile on the face of anyone who heard it. She was quick to hold your hand, smirk at you, comply with whatever you requested, and pretend that she was asleep if she didn’t want to participate in whatever was happening. Among her favorite things to do were to steal the glasses of the people who were helping her, pull off the masks of those around her, and grab ahold of any loose hanging badges, phones, or keys. Elise is survived by her parents Tony and Kelly Ballard and her younger sister Abby of Manhattan. Additionally, she is survived by her maternal grandparents Dennis and Sue Cavinaw, Lenexa, KS, Uncle Jeff Cavinaw, Kansas City, MO, Aunt Briana Cavinaw, Lansing, KS, Aunt Lorry Ballard, Hutchinson, KS, Aunt Val Coltharp, Manhattan, KS, Uncle Don and Aunt Tammy Ballard, Junction City, KS and numerous cousins near and far. Elise was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents Gene and Martha Ballard and Uncle Tony (TC) Coltharp. Funeral arrangements are pending.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Elise Ballard

David Eric Mize, 50, of Alamosa, Colorado, passed away on Sunday, December 19, 2021, following a short illness.

&nbsp;David was born on December 5, 1971, in Fremont, Nebraska, the first child of David and Janette (Mahar) Mize.&nbsp; The following year he welcomed his younger brother, Adam who would become one of his best and most trusted friends.&nbsp; The family moved to Wamego, Kansas, in the fall of 1973.&nbsp; David grew up in Wamego where he attended the local schools and graduated from Wamego High School in 1990.&nbsp; After graduation David attended several Kansas universities and spent a year in the mid 90’s volunteering with AmeriCorps, serving in the western United States.

In 2002 David joined the US Border Patrol.&nbsp; In the fall of 2006 he became an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Agent.&nbsp; He graduated from the Federal Law Enforcement Center in March of 2007 and began his career in Denver, Colorado.&nbsp; In the fall of that year he moved to Alamosa, Colorado. From his home station in Alamosa he accepted many special assignments that took him to duties in Wyoming, Vermont, Louisiana, Texas, Arizona and New Mexico. David enjoyed his community and believed in giving back.&nbsp; He was active by serving on the Alamosa Recreation Board, he umpired ball games and helped to coach an adult woman’s soft ball team.&nbsp; He was an active supporter of Tu Casa and received recognition from that organization for his support.&nbsp; David served on, and was chairman of the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club and attended several National Conventions representing the Boys and Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley.

David enjoyed following politics and cheering for his favorite sports teams; especially the Royals, the Chiefs and Kansas State.&nbsp; He liked to travel and to explore new places and to meet new people.&nbsp; David especially enjoyed time spent with his family and friends.&nbsp; He always had an opinion, but was very open to hear and honor the opinions of others.&nbsp; David just loved people and believed in the power of prayer.

&nbsp;David was preceded in death by his grandparents; Dave and Marjorie Mahar and Jack and Betty Mize.&nbsp; David is survived by his parents; his brother, Adam; his sister-in-law Libby and his two nephews Jordan and Aidan (all of Wamego), his AFS brother Todd Mickleson of Australia, and&nbsp; several aunts and uncles and numerous cousins.&nbsp;

&nbsp;A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 3, 2022 at the Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego, with family greeting friends during a visitation prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m. A celebration of life for David will also be held in Alamosa at a later date. Memorials are suggested to The Boys and Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley or to the David E. Mize Memorial Law Enforcement Scholarship Fund and may be left in care of Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego, P.O. Box 48, 66547.

David Eric Mize, 50, of Alamosa, Colorado, passed away on Sunday, December 19, 2021, following a short illness.&nbsp;David was born on December 5, 1971, in Fremont, Nebraska, the first child of David and Janette (Mahar) Mize.&nbsp; The following year he welcomed his younger brother, Adam who would become one of his best and most trusted friends.&nbsp; The family moved to Wamego, Kansas, in the fall of 1973.&nbsp; David grew up in Wamego where he attended the local schools and graduated from Wamego High School in 1990.&nbsp; After graduation David attended several Kansas universities and spent a year in the mid 90’s volunteering with AmeriCorps, serving in the western United States.In 2002 David joined the US Border Patrol.&nbsp; In the fall of 2006 he became an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Agent.&nbsp; He graduated from the Federal Law Enforcement Center in March of 2007 and began his career in Denver, Colorado.&nbsp; In the fall of that year he moved to Alamosa, Colorado. From his home station in Alamosa he accepted many special assignments that took him to duties in Wyoming, Vermont, Louisiana, Texas, Arizona and New Mexico. David enjoyed his community and believed in giving back.&nbsp; He was active by serving on the Alamosa Recreation Board, he umpired ball games and helped to coach an adult woman’s soft ball team.&nbsp; He was an active supporter of Tu Casa and received recognition from that organization for his support.&nbsp; David served on, and was chairman of the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club and attended several National Conventions representing the Boys and Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley.David enjoyed following politics and cheering for his favorite sports teams; especially the Royals, the Chiefs and Kansas State.&nbsp; He liked to travel and to explore new places and to meet new people.&nbsp; David especially enjoyed time spent with his family and friends.&nbsp; He always had an opinion, but was very open to hear and honor the opinions of others.&nbsp; David just loved people and believed in the power of prayer.&nbsp;David was preceded in death by his grandparents; Dave and Marjorie Mahar and Jack and Betty Mize.&nbsp; David is survived by his parents; his brother, Adam; his sister-in-law Libby and his two nephews Jordan and Aidan (all of Wamego), his AFS brother Todd Mickleson of Australia, and&nbsp; several aunts and uncles and numerous cousins.&nbsp;&nbsp;A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 3, 2022 at the Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego, with family greeting friends during a visitation prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m. A celebration of life for David will also be held in Alamosa at a later date. Memorials are suggested to The Boys and Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley or to the David E. Mize Memorial Law Enforcement Scholarship Fund and may be left in care of Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego, P.O. Box 48, 66547.

David Eric Mize

Annabell (Ricard) Bierbaum, age 96 of Riley, passed into Jesus’ loving arms on December 17, 2021 in Clearwater.  

Annabell was born July 6, 1925 in Eskridge, the daughter of Joseph and Phoebe (Gano) Ricard.

On September 5, 1943 she married John Bierbaum at the Ricard family home north of Barnes.  He preceded her in death in 1999.

Annabell was happiest when she was surrounded by the laughter of children.  As the middle of nine children, Annabell would help with her younger siblings.  At the age of 13, after graduating from 8th grade in Ballard Falls, KS, she started working as a mother’s helper and continued to babysit throughout her life.  Annabell loved to read and shared that love of reading with her family and others by volunteering at both the Riley County Grade School in the reading program and the Riley City Library.

   During her life with John, Annabell was a farm hand’s wife in Minnesota and Iowa, worked in a canning factory in Minnesota, and cooked in both the Schutz Café and the Union Pacific Bus Depot in Manhattan.  In 1972, John and Annabell moved to Riley and for the next 40 years, she tended to her yard full of flowers and vegetable garden during the spring and summer months.  When Annabell was not outside she was cooking, crocheting, or quilting for her family and friends.

Annabell was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Barnes and then later in her life transferred her membership to Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Manhattan.



In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents and her eight brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her son, Edward Bierbaum and wife Donna of Cottonwood, Arizona; daughter, Gayle Stockwell of Clearwater; grandchildren, Timothy Bierbaum and wife Pam of Shawano, Wisconsin, Tara Cork and husband Stephen of Madison, Wisconsin, Vanessa Coffelt of Bryan, TX, Susan Giefer and husband Jeffery of Haysville, and Joshua Stockwell and wife Rachael of Clearwater; great-grandchildren Nickoly Bierbaum, Fayth Bierbaum, Fiona Cork, Ian Cork, Haley Giefer, John Giefer, and Ava Taber; and a sister-in-law, Rosalie Bernasek.

 

The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, December 23, 2021 at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor King Crawford officiating.  Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday at St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery, south of Barnes.

Memorials have been established for Christ Lutheran Church and Alzheimer’s Association. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Annabell (Ricard) Bierbaum, age 96 of Riley, passed into Jesus’ loving arms on December 17, 2021 in Clearwater. 

Annabell was born July 6, 1925 in Eskridge, the daughter of Joseph and Phoebe (Gano) Ricard.

On September 5, 1943 she married John Bierbaum at the Ricard family home north of Barnes. He preceded her in death in 1999.

Annabell was happiest when she was surrounded by the laughter of children. As the middle of nine children, Annabell would help with her younger siblings. At the age of 13, after graduating from 8th grade in Ballard Falls, KS, she started working as a mother’s helper and continued to babysit throughout her life. Annabell loved to read and shared that love of reading with her family and others by volunteering at both the Riley County Grade School in the reading program and the Riley City Library. During her life with John, Annabell was a farm hand’s wife in Minnesota and Iowa, worked in a canning factory in Minnesota, and cooked in both the Schutz Café and the Union Pacific Bus Depot in Manhattan. In 1972, John and Annabell moved to Riley and for the next 40 years, she tended to her yard full of flowers and vegetable garden during the spring and summer months. When Annabell was not outside she was cooking, crocheting, or quilting for her family and friends.

Annabell was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Barnes and then later in her life transferred her membership to Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Manhattan.

In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents and her eight brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her son, Edward Bierbaum and wife Donna of Cottonwood, Arizona; daughter, Gayle Stockwell of Clearwater; grandchildren, Timothy Bierbaum and wife Pam of Shawano, Wisconsin, Tara Cork and husband Stephen of Madison, Wisconsin, Vanessa Coffelt of Bryan, TX, Susan Giefer and husband Jeffery of Haysville, and Joshua Stockwell and wife Rachael of Clearwater; great-grandchildren Nickoly Bierbaum, Fayth Bierbaum, Fiona Cork, Ian Cork, Haley Giefer, John Giefer, and Ava Taber; and a sister-in-law, Rosalie Bernasek. 

The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, December 23, 2021 at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor King Crawford officiating. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday at St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery, south of Barnes.

Memorials have been established for Christ Lutheran Church and Alzheimer’s Association. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Annabell (Ricard) Bierbaum

Shirley Marie Scripter, 84 died December 18, 2021, in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; She was born on November 2, 1937, in Longford, the daughter of Martin and Ava (Matteson) Livengood.&nbsp; Shirley raised on a farm in the Longford community and was a graduate of Longford High School.&nbsp; She married Donald Scripter on January 27, 1957.&nbsp; They farmed in the Longford area before moving to a farm in the Morganville community.&nbsp; Shirley was a member of the Morganville United Methodist Church and was a leader for 4-H and Girl Scouts for many years.&nbsp; Don and Shirley have made their home in Clay Center since 2013.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Duane.

Husband: Donald Scripter of Clay Center, KS

Daughter: Cindy and husband David Schulze of Rockwall, TX

Daughter: Sandy and husband Mike Rothfuss of Clay Center, KS

Daughter: Deanna and husband Chad Agler of Topeka, KS

Sister: Wava and husband Gersh Ware of Longford, KS

8 Grandchildren and 14 Great-grandchildren

Funeral Services: 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at the United Methodist Church in Clay Center, KS

Minister: Pastor Lillian Flegle and Sarah Gill

Burial: Greenwood Cemetery, Clay Center, KS

Visitation: 9:00 a.m. until service time Wednesday, December 22, at the United Methodist Church in Clay Center.

Memorials:&nbsp; Morganville United Methodist Church or Clay Center Zoo c/o the funeral home

Shirley Marie Scripter, 84 died December 18, 2021, in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; She was born on November 2, 1937, in Longford, the daughter of Martin and Ava (Matteson) Livengood.&nbsp; Shirley raised on a farm in the Longford community and was a graduate of Longford High School.&nbsp; She married Donald Scripter on January 27, 1957.&nbsp; They farmed in the Longford area before moving to a farm in the Morganville community.&nbsp; Shirley was a member of the Morganville United Methodist Church and was a leader for 4-H and Girl Scouts for many years.&nbsp; Don and Shirley have made their home in Clay Center since 2013.&nbsp; She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Duane.Survivors:Husband: Donald Scripter of Clay Center, KSDaughter: Cindy and husband David Schulze of Rockwall, TXDaughter: Sandy and husband Mike Rothfuss of Clay Center, KSDaughter: Deanna and husband Chad Agler of Topeka, KSSister: Wava and husband Gersh Ware of Longford, KS8 Grandchildren and 14 Great-grandchildrenFuneral Services: 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at the United Methodist Church in Clay Center, KSMinister: Pastor Lillian Flegle and Sarah GillBurial: Greenwood Cemetery, Clay Center, KSVisitation: 9:00 a.m. until service time Wednesday, December 22, at the United Methodist Church in Clay Center.Memorials:&nbsp; Morganville United Methodist Church or Clay Center Zoo c/o the funeral home

Shirley Marie Scripter

Leona (Dolly) Brandt, 85 of Abilene passed away Friday, December 17, 2021 at Memorial Hospital in Abilene. She was born October 6, 1936 in Tampa, Kansas the daughter of August and Alice Nely. She was united in marriage to James M. “Sonny” Brandt on February 6, 1954 in Illinois and started their family raising three children, Debra, Diana and Mitchell. James preceded her in death May 25, 2018. Leona was house wife and homemaker.

 She is survived by her three children: Mitchell and wife Nancy of Abilene; Debra and her husband Dennis Boller of Junction City and Diana and her husband John Smith of Mountain View, Arkansas. Grandchildren: Kim and her husband Chad Kuntz of Manhattan; Dena Boller of Junction City; Nick and his wife Heather Riffel of Woodbine; Ashley and her husband Brandon Depew of Abilene; Kilee and her husband Russell Lane of Mountain View, Arkansas; Melissa and her husband Jackson Valentine of Fayetteville, Arkansas; Travis and his wife Bri of Los Angeles, California; Courtney Rae Boller of Fayetteville, Arkansas; Shawntel and her husband Zachary Bowman of Mountain View Arkansas; 16 Great-grandchildren. One brother, Harold Nely and two sisters, Sylvia Shipman and Betty Glover. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband James. 

Funeral Services for Leona will be 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home with Pastor Stan Norman officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery of Enterprise. The family suggests memorials be given to Home Health and Hospice of Abilene or Meals on Wheels. Memorials may be dropped off at the funeral home or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;

Leona (Dolly) Brandt, 85 of Abilene passed away Friday, December 17, 2021 at Memorial Hospital in Abilene. She was born October 6, 1936 in Tampa, Kansas the daughter of August and Alice Nely. She was united in marriage to James M. “Sonny” Brandt on February 6, 1954 in Illinois and started their family raising three children, Debra, Diana and Mitchell. James preceded her in death May 25, 2018. Leona was house wife and homemaker. She is survived by her three children: Mitchell and wife Nancy of Abilene; Debra and her husband Dennis Boller of Junction City and Diana and her husband John Smith of Mountain View, Arkansas. Grandchildren: Kim and her husband Chad Kuntz of Manhattan; Dena Boller of Junction City; Nick and his wife Heather Riffel of Woodbine; Ashley and her husband Brandon Depew of Abilene; Kilee and her husband Russell Lane of Mountain View, Arkansas; Melissa and her husband Jackson Valentine of Fayetteville, Arkansas; Travis and his wife Bri of Los Angeles, California; Courtney Rae Boller of Fayetteville, Arkansas; Shawntel and her husband Zachary Bowman of Mountain View Arkansas; 16 Great-grandchildren. One brother, Harold Nely and two sisters, Sylvia Shipman and Betty Glover. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband James. Funeral Services for Leona will be 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home with Pastor Stan Norman officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery of Enterprise. The family suggests memorials be given to Home Health and Hospice of Abilene or Meals on Wheels. Memorials may be dropped off at the funeral home or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;

Leona (Dolly) Brandt

<ul>
 <li>Visitation: Wednesday, December 22nd, 2021,&nbsp; 5:00-7 pm, Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 N 3rd, Abilene, KS 67410</li><li>Service:&nbsp; Thursday, December 23rd, 2021 10:30 am,&nbsp; First Southern Baptist Churc, 14th and Mulberry, Abilene,KS </li><li>Interment - Thursday, December 23rd, 2021 3:00 p.m., St. Mary's Cemetery, 900 E. 6th Street, Ellis, Kansas</li>
 </ul>

Sybil Luea - November 26th, 1946 - December 17th, 2021

John Charles Reese, a longtime resident of Manhattan, departed this life on December 9, 2021. He was born December 25, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri, and was the only child of Harold L. Reese and Julia (Hubbs) Reese. John is survived by his wife, Mary Beth (Vogelsang) Reese, whom he married in Columbia, Missouri, on May 30, 1970. He also is survived by his two sons, Andrew C. Reese of New York City, NY, and Adam J. Reese of Denver, CO, many cousins, and Mary Beth’s siblings and their families. John grew up loving science and nature and started collecting insects, rocks, and bird eggs as a child in Raymore, Missouri. After graduating from high school, John earned his B.S. in Zoology in 1969 and an M.S. in Entomology in 1971 from the University of Missouri, Columbia. He then went on to earn his Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison in 1975. John worked in Madison, WI, and the USDA in Albany, CA, before taking a faculty position at the University of Delaware in Newark, DE. In 1982, he became an assistant professor in the Department of Entomology at Kansas State University, where he became internationally known for his research on host plant resistance, particularly in reference to feeding and damage by aphids. John published more than 120 peer-reviewed journal articles and mentored a number of graduate students. John was elected a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences in 2013. John was a member of the Entomological Society of America for almost 50 years and was a Fellow of the American Organization for the Advancement of Science. He also was a member of the International Plant Resistance to Insects working group, Friends of Konza Prairie, the Riley County Historical Society, the Oregon Trail Association, and was a board member of the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation. John traveled extensively to attend conferences and present his research, and his travels took him to six continents. In his spare time he enjoyed running and could often be seen running 8-10 miles during lunch, and he hiked to the summit of Pike’s Peak eight times. John also enjoyed genealogy, investing in the stock market, volunteering at the K-State Insect Zoo, and taking care of his land. John was a member of the Army ROTC from 1969-1971 and then was in the Army Reserves for 8 years. A memorial will be held on Saturday, April 2nd. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the John C. and Mary Beth Reese Scholarship Fund by mailing to the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation at PO Box 1127, Manhattan, KS 66505, or to the K-State Insect Zoo, Department of Entomology, 123 West Waters Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506. John was a quietly vibrant soul who treated everyone he met with equal respect, from the custodian in the hallway to the loftiest holder of a Ph.D. John influenced a number of people in his professional and personal life and his love of science and nature will be missed.

John Charles Reese, a longtime resident of Manhattan, departed this life on December 9, 2021. He was born December 25, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri, and was the only child of Harold L. Reese and Julia (Hubbs) Reese. John is survived by his wife, Mary Beth (Vogelsang) Reese, whom he married in Columbia, Missouri, on May 30, 1970. He also is survived by his two sons, Andrew C. Reese of New York City, NY, and Adam J. Reese of Denver, CO, many cousins, and Mary Beth’s siblings and their families. John grew up loving science and nature and started collecting insects, rocks, and bird eggs as a child in Raymore, Missouri. After graduating from high school, John earned his B.S. in Zoology in 1969 and an M.S. in Entomology in 1971 from the University of Missouri, Columbia. He then went on to earn his Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison in 1975. John worked in Madison, WI, and the USDA in Albany, CA, before taking a faculty position at the University of Delaware in Newark, DE. In 1982, he became an assistant professor in the Department of Entomology at Kansas State University, where he became internationally known for his research on host plant resistance, particularly in reference to feeding and damage by aphids. John published more than 120 peer-reviewed journal articles and mentored a number of graduate students. John was elected a Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences in 2013. John was a member of the Entomological Society of America for almost 50 years and was a Fellow of the American Organization for the Advancement of Science. He also was a member of the International Plant Resistance to Insects working group, Friends of Konza Prairie, the Riley County Historical Society, the Oregon Trail Association, and was a board member of the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation. John traveled extensively to attend conferences and present his research, and his travels took him to six continents. In his spare time he enjoyed running and could often be seen running 8-10 miles during lunch, and he hiked to the summit of Pike’s Peak eight times. John also enjoyed genealogy, investing in the stock market, volunteering at the K-State Insect Zoo, and taking care of his land. John was a member of the Army ROTC from 1969-1971 and then was in the Army Reserves for 8 years. A memorial will be held on Saturday, April 2nd. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the John C. and Mary Beth Reese Scholarship Fund by mailing to the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation at PO Box 1127, Manhattan, KS 66505, or to the K-State Insect Zoo, Department of Entomology, 123 West Waters Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506. John was a quietly vibrant soul who treated everyone he met with equal respect, from the custodian in the hallway to the loftiest holder of a Ph.D. John influenced a number of people in his professional and personal life and his love of science and nature will be missed.

Obituaries