MSGT (RET) George Anthony "Junior" Hoyte: Sunrise - January 18, 1958; Sunset - December 30, 2020. George made his transition from this earth on December 30, 2020. George was born on January 18, 1958 to the late Monica Barbara Smith and George Joseph Hoyte. George leaves to cherish his memories: His loving and devoted wife, Edith "Edie"; a precocious and caring grandson, Michael Anthony "MJ" Hoyte Jr. " and George's message to Michael JR is "MJ, never forget how much Grampa George loves you." George and Edie's union was blessed with two sons: firstborn son, Michael Anthony Hoyte of Houston, Texas, who is the father of Janeava Neveah Martin, Michael Anthony Hoyte Jr., Kaiylani "Lani" Rosaris Hoyte, Mason John Hoyte and Miles Christian Hoyte, and George's second born son Christopher Jared "CJ" Hoyte of Winfield, Kansas, who is the father of Christopher Aydin Johnson. George walks ahead of one sister Cheryl-Ann Hoyte of Trinidad &amp; Tobago, one younger brother John Hoyte of Sacramento, California, youngest brother Lyndon Hoyte (Suzette) of Houston, Texas, and one brother-cousin Lerrie Haynes (Penny) also of Houston Texas. He leaves to mourn a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. God, country, and family (in this order) meant everything to George. II Timothy 4:7. I have fought a good fight. I have finished my course. I have kept the faith. A graveside celebration of life will be January 13, 2020, 1pm, at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, KS. He will lie in state January 11, 2021 from 5pm to 7pm, at the Johnson Funeral Home, 203 N. Washington St., Junction City, KS.

MSGT (RET) George Anthony Hoyte, 62, of Junction City, KS, formerly of Trinidad &amp; Tobago, made his transition from this earth on December 30, 2020. He will lie in state January 11, 2021 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Johnson Funeral Home, 203 N. Washington St., Junction City, KS. A graveside memorial service will be at 1 p.m.,&nbsp; January 13, 2020 at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, KS. Full obituary to appear soon in care of the Funeral Home.&nbsp;

MSGT (RET) George Anthony "Junior" Hoyte: Sunrise - January 18, 1958; Sunset - December 30, 2020. George made his transition from this earth on December 30, 2020. George was born on January 18, 1958 to the late Monica Barbara Smith and George Joseph Hoyte. George leaves to cherish his memories: His loving and devoted wife, Edith "Edie"; a precocious and caring grandson, Michael Anthony "MJ" Hoyte Jr. " and George's message to Michael JR is "MJ, never forget how much Grampa George loves you." George and Edie's union was blessed with two sons: firstborn son, Michael Anthony Hoyte of Houston, Texas, who is the father of Janeava Neveah Martin, Michael Anthony Hoyte Jr., Kaiylani "Lani" Rosaris Hoyte, Mason John Hoyte and Miles Christian Hoyte, and George's second born son Christopher Jared "CJ" Hoyte of Winfield, Kansas, who is the father of Christopher Aydin Johnson. George walks ahead of one sister Cheryl-Ann Hoyte of Trinidad &amp; Tobago, one younger brother John Hoyte of Sacramento, California, youngest brother Lyndon Hoyte (Suzette) of Houston, Texas, and one brother-cousin Lerrie Haynes (Penny) also of Houston Texas. He leaves to mourn a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. God, country, and family (in this order) meant everything to George. II Timothy 4:7. I have fought a good fight. I have finished my course. I have kept the faith. A graveside celebration of life will be January 13, 2020, 1pm, at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, KS. He will lie in state January 11, 2021 from 5pm to 7pm, at the Johnson Funeral Home, 203 N. Washington St., Junction City, KS. MSGT (RET) George Anthony Hoyte, 62, of Junction City, KS, formerly of Trinidad &amp; Tobago, made his transition from this earth on December 30, 2020. He will lie in state January 11, 2021 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Johnson Funeral Home, 203 N. Washington St., Junction City, KS. A graveside memorial service will be at 1 p.m.,&nbsp; January 13, 2020 at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, KS. Full obituary to appear soon in care of the Funeral Home.&nbsp;

MSGT (RET) George Anthony Hoyte

Clarence E. Freeman, 79, of Junction City, KS, passed away on Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, KS. A graveside service will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, January 12, 2021, at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery with military honors. The family will receive friends 8:30 - 9:30 Tuesday at Johnson Funeral Home prior to the graveside service. Clarence was born March 20, 1941 in Shreveport, LA the son of William and Katherine Ganaway Freeman. Clarence served in the United States Army. He later worked over twenty years at Potters Liquor Store in Junction City. He was a Mason. He married Marianne Chrocz January 3, 1980. She passed away March 17, 2001. Survivors left to mourn his loss are one daughter, Daniella Bullock of Manhattan, KS; one son, Ricky Freeman of CA; two step-sons, Olan Hogan of Augusta, GA and Billy Hogan of Sious Falls, S.D.; one brother, John Freeman of TX; two sisters, Katherine Triggs and Sharon Freeman both of Shreveport, LA; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren&nbsp;&nbsp;

Clarence E. Freeman, 79, of Junction City, KS, passed away on Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, KS. A graveside service will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, January 12, 2021, at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery with military honors. The family will receive friends 8:30 - 9:30 Tuesday at Johnson Funeral Home prior to the graveside service. Clarence was born March 20, 1941 in Shreveport, LA the son of William and Katherine Ganaway Freeman. Clarence served in the United States Army. He later worked over twenty years at Potters Liquor Store in Junction City. He was a Mason. He married Marianne Chrocz January 3, 1980. She passed away March 17, 2001. Survivors left to mourn his loss are one daughter, Daniella Bullock of Manhattan, KS; one son, Ricky Freeman of CA; two step-sons, Olan Hogan of Augusta, GA and Billy Hogan of Sious Falls, S.D.; one brother, John Freeman of TX; two sisters, Katherine Triggs and Sharon Freeman both of Shreveport, LA; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren&nbsp;&nbsp;

Clarence E. Freeman

Nicole Marie Rucker, 51, of Junction City, KS, passed away on December 31, 2020. Johnson Funeral Home of Junction City is assisting the family with burial arrangements. A graveside service will be January 11, 2021, 1 p.m., at Highland Cemetery, 703 W. Ash St., Junction City, KS 66441. Nicole was born on November 4, 1969, in Junction City, Kansas. She grew up in Junction City, graduating from Junction City high School class of 1988. She went on to work in the food service industry. Her last position was that of store manager foe Wendy's on 6th St. in Junction City. Nicole was everyone's friend. She made a room come alive just with her smile. She was funny, loving, and will be dearly missed. Nicole is survived by her loving family: Her mother Phyllis Brooks; two daughters, Ramona (Joseph Roberts) Roberts and Jerrica White; two sons, DaMarcus Rucker and Darrian Wilson; seven grandchildren, Josiah Nathaniel King Roberts, Faith Roberts, Royal White, Ez' Ariah Wilson, Ezalea Wilson, Elijah Dupree, Elias Dupree; a brother Yacub Brooks; an uncle, Ralph Thomas Starks, Jr.; great aunt and uncle Margret and Jack Sprawling; and a host of loving family and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, William C. Starks, paternal grandparents, Grace Marie Wilkins and Ralph Thomas Starks, Sr., maternal grandmother Elmer Evans, a brother Phillip Rucker, and an uncle, Fredrick Jess Starks, Sr..&nbsp;&nbsp;

A graveside service will be at 1 p.m., January 11, 2021 at Highland Cemetery, 703 W. Ash St., Junction City, KS 66441.

Nicole Marie Rucker, 51, of Junction City, KS, passed away on December 31, 2020. Johnson Funeral Home of Junction City is assisting the family with burial arrangements. A graveside service will be January 11, 2021, 1 p.m., at Highland Cemetery, 703 W. Ash St., Junction City, KS 66441. Nicole was born on November 4, 1969, in Junction City, Kansas. She grew up in Junction City, graduating from Junction City high School class of 1988. She went on to work in the food service industry. Her last position was that of store manager foe Wendy's on 6th St. in Junction City. Nicole was everyone's friend. She made a room come alive just with her smile. She was funny, loving, and will be dearly missed. Nicole is survived by her loving family: Her mother Phyllis Brooks; two daughters, Ramona (Joseph Roberts) Roberts and Jerrica White; two sons, DaMarcus Rucker and Darrian Wilson; seven grandchildren, Josiah Nathaniel King Roberts, Faith Roberts, Royal White, Ez' Ariah Wilson, Ezalea Wilson, Elijah Dupree, Elias Dupree; a brother Yacub Brooks; an uncle, Ralph Thomas Starks, Jr.; great aunt and uncle Margret and Jack Sprawling; and a host of loving family and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, William C. Starks, paternal grandparents, Grace Marie Wilkins and Ralph Thomas Starks, Sr., maternal grandmother Elmer Evans, a brother Phillip Rucker, and an uncle, Fredrick Jess Starks, Sr..&nbsp;&nbsp;A graveside service will be at 1 p.m., January 11, 2021 at Highland Cemetery, 703 W. Ash St., Junction City, KS 66441.

Nicole Marie Rucker,

Maurice Winston Berggren, age 82 of Manhattan, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2021, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital.
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He was born on November 12, 1938, in Leonardville, the son of Martin Luther and Agnes Cecelia (Nelson) Berggren.&nbsp; He was the youngest of seven children.&nbsp; He attended Leonardville Grade School and graduated from Leonardville High School.&nbsp; He graduated from Bethany College, majoring in Commercial Art and Art Education and completed his Master’s Degree at Kansas State University.
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On December 31, 1960, he married Bonnie Jean Lundquist.&nbsp; She survives of the home.

Maury taught in the Art Department at Manhattan High School for 29 years and owned Berggren’s Studio.&nbsp; He was a charter member of Peace Lutheran Church.&nbsp; He loved working with stained glass and fashioned many stained glass windows for churches and hospitals.&nbsp; Bonnie and he enjoyed traveling the country visiting their children and grandchildren. &nbsp;
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In addition to his wife, he is survived by one son, Bruce Berggren and wife Betty of North Richland Hills, Texas; one daughter, Janice Johnson and husband Paul of North Mankato, Minnesota; two sisters, Norma Coutermarsh and husband Bart of Leonardville and Lylas Schultz of Ellinwood; seven grandchildren, Michelle Berggren, Scott Berggren, Kristianna Johnson, Makenna Johnson, Kjersten Johnson, Elizabeth Sawyers, and Alexander Sawyers and many nieces and nephews.
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He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers, Wendell Berggren, Robert Berggren, Kenneth Berggren, and Ralph Berggren.


Respect calls may be made from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. January 15, 2021, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
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Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. January 16, 2021 at Walsburg Lutheran Church with Rev. Keith Weins and Rev. Austin English officiating.&nbsp; Burial following the service in the Walsburg Cemetery.

Due to the current times, a live stream of the service and recording will be available and a link will be provided before the service.&nbsp; The safety of our family and friends are our priority.&nbsp; Virtual attendance is encouraged.&nbsp; Limited seating will be available for the service inside.&nbsp;
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In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to the Maurice Berggren Memorial Fund to be used for supporting Fine Arts Education.&nbsp; Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Maurice Winston Berggren, age 82 of Manhattan, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2021, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital.
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He was born on November 12, 1938, in Leonardville, the son of Martin Luther and Agnes Cecelia (Nelson) Berggren.&nbsp; He was the youngest of seven children.&nbsp; He attended Leonardville Grade School and graduated from Leonardville High School.&nbsp; He graduated from Bethany College, majoring in Commercial Art and Art Education and completed his Master’s Degree at Kansas State University.
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On December 31, 1960, he married Bonnie Jean Lundquist.&nbsp; She survives of the home.Maury taught in the Art Department at Manhattan High School for 29 years and owned Berggren’s Studio.&nbsp; He was a charter member of Peace Lutheran Church.&nbsp; He loved working with stained glass and fashioned many stained glass windows for churches and hospitals.&nbsp; Bonnie and he enjoyed traveling the country visiting their children and grandchildren. &nbsp;
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In addition to his wife, he is survived by one son, Bruce Berggren and wife Betty of North Richland Hills, Texas; one daughter, Janice Johnson and husband Paul of North Mankato, Minnesota; two sisters, Norma Coutermarsh and husband Bart of Leonardville and Lylas Schultz of Ellinwood; seven grandchildren, Michelle Berggren, Scott Berggren, Kristianna Johnson, Makenna Johnson, Kjersten Johnson, Elizabeth Sawyers, and Alexander Sawyers and many nieces and nephews.
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He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers, Wendell Berggren, Robert Berggren, Kenneth Berggren, and Ralph Berggren.
Respect calls may be made from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. January 15, 2021, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
&nbsp;
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. January 16, 2021 at Walsburg Lutheran Church with Rev. Keith Weins and Rev. Austin English officiating.&nbsp; Burial following the service in the Walsburg Cemetery.Due to the current times, a live stream of the service and recording will be available and a link will be provided before the service.&nbsp; The safety of our family and friends are our priority.&nbsp; Virtual attendance is encouraged.&nbsp; Limited seating will be available for the service inside.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to the Maurice Berggren Memorial Fund to be used for supporting Fine Arts Education.&nbsp; Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Maurice Winston Berggren

William Dean Thurlow, 95 died January 4, 2021 in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; He was born on September 10, 1925 in rural Wakefield, KS, the son of John and Caroline (Koerner) Thurlow.&nbsp; William grew up on the family farm south of Wakefield.&nbsp; He worked on the farm following high school graduation until he enlisted in the US Army in 1945, serving in Japan during WWII.&nbsp; Following the war, Bill attended Kansas State University, graduating with a Secondary Education Degree.&nbsp; He taught school in Bendena, KS when he met Helen Bullock.&nbsp; They were married on April 12, 1953.&nbsp; In 1967, Bill and Helen moved the family to Clay Center where he opened and operated&nbsp; Circle T Implement with his brother, Calvin.&nbsp; He was a member of Swedesburg First Lutheran Church for 53 years, served as a Clay County Commissioner and a 20 year Clay County School Board member.&nbsp; Bill was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Barbara Dexter; brothers Melvin, Erwin and Calvin Thurlow.

Daughter: Karen Smith and husband Robert of Manhattan, KS

Son: Terry Thurlow and wife Robin of Wakefield, KS

Son: Lynn Thurlow and wife Kathryn of Lindsborg, KS

Son: Randy Thurlow and wife Coleen of Wakefield, KS

9 Grandchildren and 5 Great-grandchildren

Services: Services for Bill will livestream at 1:30 p.m., Friday, January 8 at&nbsp; https://www.facebook.com/nsrfuneralhome

Visitation: Thursday, January&nbsp; 7, 2021 from 4-7 p.m. at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home

Memorials:&nbsp; in lieu of flowers to CCCIF c/o the funeral home.&nbsp; The memorials will benefit the Wakefield Museum and the USD #379 water bottle refill stations

William Dean Thurlow, 95 died January 4, 2021 in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; He was born on September 10, 1925 in rural Wakefield, KS, the son of John and Caroline (Koerner) Thurlow.&nbsp; William grew up on the family farm south of Wakefield.&nbsp; He worked on the farm following high school graduation until he enlisted in the US Army in 1945, serving in Japan during WWII.&nbsp; Following the war, Bill attended Kansas State University, graduating with a Secondary Education Degree.&nbsp; He taught school in Bendena, KS when he met Helen Bullock.&nbsp; They were married on April 12, 1953.&nbsp; In 1967, Bill and Helen moved the family to Clay Center where he opened and operated&nbsp; Circle T Implement with his brother, Calvin.&nbsp; He was a member of Swedesburg First Lutheran Church for 53 years, served as a Clay County Commissioner and a 20 year Clay County School Board member.&nbsp; Bill was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Barbara Dexter; brothers Melvin, Erwin and Calvin Thurlow.Survivors:Wife: Helen Thurlow of Clay Center, KSDaughter: Karen Smith and husband Robert of Manhattan, KSSon: Terry Thurlow and wife Robin of Wakefield, KSSon: Lynn Thurlow and wife Kathryn of Lindsborg, KSSon: Randy Thurlow and wife Coleen of Wakefield, KS9 Grandchildren and 5 Great-grandchildrenServices: Services for Bill will livestream at 1:30 p.m., Friday, January 8 at&nbsp; https://www.facebook.com/nsrfuneralhomeVisitation: Thursday, January&nbsp; 7, 2021 from 4-7 p.m. at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral HomeMemorials:&nbsp; in lieu of flowers to CCCIF c/o the funeral home.&nbsp; The memorials will benefit the Wakefield Museum and the USD #379 water bottle refill stations

William Dean Thurlow

Terry R. McGrath Sr., 66 of Abilene passed away January 5, 2021 at Enterprise Estates Nursing Home in Enterprise.

He was born in Abilene January 31, 1954, the son of Dan and Audrey (Yocum) McGrath. Terry grew up in the Abilene area, attended the local schools and graduated from Abilene High School. He served 3 years in the National Guard in Abilene. Terry worked 34 years for ADM Mill retiring in 2019. He was an avid outdoors man, enjoying hunting and fishing. He participated in the Old Abilene Gun Fight as Shotgun Red up until 2017. 

Terry is survived by his parents, Dan and Audrey McGrath. Two sons, Terry (Manuela) McGrath Jr and Sam (Stacia) McCulley. One daughter, Sherry McGrath. Two sisters, Hazel (Will) Knott and Danise (Gary) Auldridge. Numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Dani McGrath.

The family has chosen cremation. A private family inurnment will take place in the Abilene City Cemetery at a later date. The family suggests memorials be given to the Terry R. McGrath, Sr. Memorial Fund. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Danner Funeral Home, 501 N. Buckeye, Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Terry R. McGrath Sr., 66 of Abilene passed away January 5, 2021 at Enterprise Estates Nursing Home in Enterprise.He was born in Abilene January 31, 1954, the son of Dan and Audrey (Yocum) McGrath. Terry grew up in the Abilene area, attended the local schools and graduated from Abilene High School. He served 3 years in the National Guard in Abilene. Terry worked 34 years for ADM Mill retiring in 2019. He was an avid outdoors man, enjoying hunting and fishing. He participated in the Old Abilene Gun Fight as Shotgun Red up until 2017. Terry is survived by his parents, Dan and Audrey McGrath. Two sons, Terry (Manuela) McGrath Jr and Sam (Stacia) McCulley. One daughter, Sherry McGrath. Two sisters, Hazel (Will) Knott and Danise (Gary) Auldridge. Numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Dani McGrath.The family has chosen cremation. A private family inurnment will take place in the Abilene City Cemetery at a later date. The family suggests memorials be given to the Terry R. McGrath, Sr. Memorial Fund. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Danner Funeral Home, 501 N. Buckeye, Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Terry R. McGrath, Sr.

Margaret “Maggie” Brunner 83 of Abilene, formerly of Hope passed away January 5, 2021 at Enterprise Estates Nursing Home. 

She was born in Provo, Utah September 22, 1937, the daughter of Richard and Agnes (Mitchell) Patterson. Maggie grew up in the Provo area and graduated from Provo High School. On May 5, 1961 she was united in marriage to John Brunner. He preceded her in death February 19, 2019. Maggie worked at the Sears store in Abilene, Duck Walls in the accounts receivable department, the Hope grocery store and at Endzone in Hope. 

Maggie is survived by her daughter Chris Savery and husband Jeff of Abilene, son Russ Fowler of Salina, ten grandchildren: Travis Savery, Tyler Savery, Jeremy Parks, Josh Parks, Richard Fowler, Cody Brunner, Keely Brunner, Lacy Brunner, Holly Brunner and Dillon Brunner, and twelve great-grandchildren and a sister, Susan Roberts and husband Jim of Abilene. She was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband John four children: Debra Fowler-Parks, Richard Fowler, Roger Brunner and Bob Brunner, daughter-in-law, Sharon Fowler, granddaughter, Nikki Fowler, two brothers, Bob and Dick Patterson.

Graveside Services for Maggie will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 8, 2021 at the Hope City Cemetery. Friends may come by Martin-Becker-Carlson in Abilene anytime after 10:00 A.M., on Thursday to view and sign the register book. Family suggests memorials be given to Salina Rescue Mission. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Margaret “Maggie” Brunner 83 of Abilene, formerly of Hope passed away January 5, 2021 at Enterprise Estates Nursing Home. She was born in Provo, Utah September 22, 1937, the daughter of Richard and Agnes (Mitchell) Patterson. Maggie grew up in the Provo area and graduated from Provo High School. On May 5, 1961 she was united in marriage to John Brunner. He preceded her in death February 19, 2019. Maggie worked at the Sears store in Abilene, Duck Walls in the accounts receivable department, the Hope grocery store and at Endzone in Hope. Maggie is survived by her daughter Chris Savery and husband Jeff of Abilene, son Russ Fowler of Salina, ten grandchildren: Travis Savery, Tyler Savery, Jeremy Parks, Josh Parks, Richard Fowler, Cody Brunner, Keely Brunner, Lacy Brunner, Holly Brunner and Dillon Brunner, and twelve great-grandchildren and a sister, Susan Roberts and husband Jim of Abilene. She was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband John four children: Debra Fowler-Parks, Richard Fowler, Roger Brunner and Bob Brunner, daughter-in-law, Sharon Fowler, granddaughter, Nikki Fowler, two brothers, Bob and Dick Patterson.Graveside Services for Maggie will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 8, 2021 at the Hope City Cemetery. Friends may come by Martin-Becker-Carlson in Abilene anytime after 10:00 A.M., on Thursday to view and sign the register book. Family suggests memorials be given to Salina Rescue Mission. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Margaret “Maggie” Brunner

Dr. Melvin S. Center, 80, of Manhattan, passed away peacefully on Sunday January 3rd, 2021. 

Melvin was born in Savannah, Georgia to Dr. Abraham and Bess Center on May 10, 1940. He graduated from Savannah High and the University of Georgia before receiving his Ph.D. from the Medical College of Georgia. He then continued his postdoctoral training as a researcher at Harvard Medical School for three years. Melvin began his career at Kansas State University in 1970 in the Division of Biology where he served for 29 years teaching and researching in virology and cancer cell biology. Over the years as a professor, he became an international authority on multi-drug resistance, an area of research that is crucial to successful chemotherapy. He would go on to train 17 graduate and postdoctoral students, publish more than 60 peer-reviewed papers in scientific literature and was selected a Mid-American States University honor lecturer. To provide a sense of his work, one of his published papers was entitled “Evidence that SP1 Modulates Transcriptional Activity of the Multidrug Resistance-Associated Protein Gene.” On September 2, 1962 he would marry Rosalind Siegel of Anderson, South Carolina whom he remained married to for 58 years. Melvin was a member of the Jewish community and spent his spare time serving meals to the needy through Meals on Wheels. He was an avid reader, loved to travel and discover local or gourmet food, and possessed a dry sense of humor that brought smiles to everyone who knew him. He also was exceedingly and zealously kind, and made the world around him a more thoughtful and gracious place to be. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gary. He is survived by his wife Rosalind, brother Larry (Raline), his nephews and a niece and his children Michael (Allison) and Brian (Vivian). He also is survived by his four beloved grandchildren, David, Benjamin, Sophia and Olivia Center. Memorial donations in his name may be made to Good Shepherd Homecare Hospice, 3801 Vanesta Drive, Manhattan, KS 66503 or to the Manhattan Jewish Congregation, 1509 Wreath Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66503. Donations may be sent in care of Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date once it is safe to do so.

Dr. Melvin S. Center, 80, of Manhattan, passed away peacefully on Sunday January 3rd, 2021. Melvin was born in Savannah, Georgia to Dr. Abraham and Bess Center on May 10, 1940. He graduated from Savannah High and the University of Georgia before receiving his Ph.D. from the Medical College of Georgia. He then continued his postdoctoral training as a researcher at Harvard Medical School for three years. Melvin began his career at Kansas State University in 1970 in the Division of Biology where he served for 29 years teaching and researching in virology and cancer cell biology. Over the years as a professor, he became an international authority on multi-drug resistance, an area of research that is crucial to successful chemotherapy. He would go on to train 17 graduate and postdoctoral students, publish more than 60 peer-reviewed papers in scientific literature and was selected a Mid-American States University honor lecturer. To provide a sense of his work, one of his published papers was entitled “Evidence that SP1 Modulates Transcriptional Activity of the Multidrug Resistance-Associated Protein Gene.” On September 2, 1962 he would marry Rosalind Siegel of Anderson, South Carolina whom he remained married to for 58 years. Melvin was a member of the Jewish community and spent his spare time serving meals to the needy through Meals on Wheels. He was an avid reader, loved to travel and discover local or gourmet food, and possessed a dry sense of humor that brought smiles to everyone who knew him. He also was exceedingly and zealously kind, and made the world around him a more thoughtful and gracious place to be. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gary. He is survived by his wife Rosalind, brother Larry (Raline), his nephews and a niece and his children Michael (Allison) and Brian (Vivian). He also is survived by his four beloved grandchildren, David, Benjamin, Sophia and Olivia Center. Memorial donations in his name may be made to Good Shepherd Homecare Hospice, 3801 Vanesta Drive, Manhattan, KS 66503 or to the Manhattan Jewish Congregation, 1509 Wreath Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66503. Donations may be sent in care of Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date once it is safe to do so.

Dr. Melvin S. Center

Margene Kay Moss, age 80, of Manhattan, died January 4, 2021, at her residence.

She was born October 23, 1940, in Manhattan, the daughter of Lisle and Julia (Campbell) Blasing. Margene graduated from Manhattan High School and then later in life earned her bachelors from Kansas State University in 1996 in Humanities. Margene worked as an accountant for many years at Kansas State University, retiring in 2003. She was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan, ManKan Campers, Gold Key National Honor Society, and KSU Alumni Association. She had volunteered as a Girl Scout Leader when her girls were young, and for several years at Tuttle Creek State Park. She was a talented artist and enjoyed working in painting, drawing and stained glass. She had a love for horses, enjoyed feeding the birds and gardening. Margene was married to Ronnie H. Moss on May 1, 2000, in Manhattan. Ronnie survives of the home. Additional survivors include her two daughters: Cheryl Armendariz and her husband Jim of Manhattan, and Julie Armendariz and her husband Victor of Portland, OR; four grandchildren: Erin, Lara, Michael and Anthony; two siblings: Robert Blasing of Oklahoma City, OK, and Pat Krushensky of Falcon, CO; two step-sons: Scott and Anthony Moss; her step-father Forrest Adams of Clinton, OK; and two step-brothers and a step-sister. Margene was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, and by one daughter, Beth Ann in infancy. Cremation is planned. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, January 14th, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Margene Kay Moss, age 80, of Manhattan, died January 4, 2021, at her residence. She was born October 23, 1940, in Manhattan, the daughter of Lisle and Julia (Campbell) Blasing. Margene graduated from Manhattan High School and then later in life earned her bachelors from Kansas State University in 1996 in Humanities. Margene worked as an accountant for many years at Kansas State University, retiring in 2003. She was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan, ManKan Campers, Gold Key National Honor Society, and KSU Alumni Association. She had volunteered as a Girl Scout Leader when her girls were young, and for several years at Tuttle Creek State Park. She was a talented artist and enjoyed working in painting, drawing and stained glass. She had a love for horses, enjoyed feeding the birds and gardening. Margene was married to Ronnie H. Moss on May 1, 2000, in Manhattan. Ronnie survives of the home. Additional survivors include her two daughters: Cheryl Armendariz and her husband Jim of Manhattan, and Julie Armendariz and her husband Victor of Portland, OR; four grandchildren: Erin, Lara, Michael and Anthony; two siblings: Robert Blasing of Oklahoma City, OK, and Pat Krushensky of Falcon, CO; two step-sons: Scott and Anthony Moss; her step-father Forrest Adams of Clinton, OK; and two step-brothers and a step-sister. Margene was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, and by one daughter, Beth Ann in infancy. Cremation is planned. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, January 14th, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Margene Kay Moss

Ellen Mathews, 59, of Junction City, KS, passed away on Monday, January 4, 2021. Visitation and funeral services will be held on January 9, 2021 at the Second Missionary Baptist Church in Junction City, Kansas. Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., which will be directly followed by the funeral services. Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home &amp; Cremation have been entrusted with the services for Ms. Ellen Mathews.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellen Mathews, 59, of Junction City, KS, passed away on Monday, January 4, 2021. Visitation and funeral services will be held on January 9, 2021 at the Second Missionary Baptist Church in Junction City, Kansas. Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., which will be directly followed by the funeral services. Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home &amp; Cremation have been entrusted with the services for Ms. Ellen Mathews.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ellen Mathews

Lawrence Oscar Krouse, 87, of Westmoreland, Kansas, died peacefully, Tuesday, January 5, 20201, at the Wellsprings Care Center surrounded by his family. &nbsp;He was a life-long resident of the community.

Oscar was born on March 30, 1933, the son of Ernest and Mary Zabel Krouse. &nbsp;He attended local schools and graduated from Westmoreland High School in 1952.

Oscar was a farmer, stockman, and cowboy most of his adult life. &nbsp;He loved working with his horses and Francis the Mule. &nbsp;Oscar was very involved in organizing trail drives and served as the Wagon Master on many rides. &nbsp;Oscar also worked several years at Bayer Construction as a crew foreman, mainly putting in water and sewer lines with many projects at Fort Riley. &nbsp;He worked as a heavy equipment operator on the field crew for Jeffery Energy Center and moved a lot of coal.

Oscar was a member of the United Methodist Church, a past member of the Rural Water Board, and helped numerous children over the years in 4-H and FFA. &nbsp;He was an active member of the Harvesters food distribution program. &nbsp;He enjoyed High School sports and was a Kansas State fan. &nbsp;He enjoyed riding his horse in parades and showing sheep and hogs at the county and state fair. &nbsp;He always seemed to have a smile on his face.

Oscar married Jean Nye on June 1, 1952, in Westmoreland. &nbsp;She survives at their home.

Oscar is also survived by his children; Kenneth Krouse (Cindy), Mt. Vernon, Missouri, and Teresa Krouse, Wamego; his grandchildren, &nbsp;Wesley Krouse, Mt Vernon, Missouri, Eric Riniker, Wamego, Megan Riniker, St. George, and Cody Riniker, Wamego; his siblings, Minnie Bradshaw, Phoenix, Arizona, Dale Krouse, Westmorland, and Richard Krouse (Joyce), Reading, Massachusetts. &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Agnes Whitworth, Eunice Ruse, Betty Berens, Raymond Krouse, Gilbert Krouse, and Donald Krouse.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 pm, Monday, January 11, 2021, at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home, 4370 Salzer Road just west of Wamego. &nbsp;Burial will follow at Westmoreland City Cemetery. &nbsp;On Sunday, January 10, 2021, between the hours of 1:00 pm and 6:00 pm, friends and family may come and pay their respects. &nbsp;The family suggests memorial contributions to Wellspring of Westmoreland, and those may be sent in care of the funeral home.&nbsp;

Lawrence Oscar Krouse, 87, of Westmoreland, Kansas, died peacefully, Tuesday, January 5, 20201, at the Wellsprings Care Center surrounded by his family. &nbsp;He was a life-long resident of the community.Oscar was born on March 30, 1933, the son of Ernest and Mary Zabel Krouse. &nbsp;He attended local schools and graduated from Westmoreland High School in 1952.Oscar was a farmer, stockman, and cowboy most of his adult life. &nbsp;He loved working with his horses and Francis the Mule. &nbsp;Oscar was very involved in organizing trail drives and served as the Wagon Master on many rides. &nbsp;Oscar also worked several years at Bayer Construction as a crew foreman, mainly putting in water and sewer lines with many projects at Fort Riley. &nbsp;He worked as a heavy equipment operator on the field crew for Jeffery Energy Center and moved a lot of coal.Oscar was a member of the United Methodist Church, a past member of the Rural Water Board, and helped numerous children over the years in 4-H and FFA. &nbsp;He was an active member of the Harvesters food distribution program. &nbsp;He enjoyed High School sports and was a Kansas State fan. &nbsp;He enjoyed riding his horse in parades and showing sheep and hogs at the county and state fair. &nbsp;He always seemed to have a smile on his face.Oscar married Jean Nye on June 1, 1952, in Westmoreland. &nbsp;She survives at their home.Oscar is also survived by his children; Kenneth Krouse (Cindy), Mt. Vernon, Missouri, and Teresa Krouse, Wamego; his grandchildren, &nbsp;Wesley Krouse, Mt Vernon, Missouri, Eric Riniker, Wamego, Megan Riniker, St. George, and Cody Riniker, Wamego; his siblings, Minnie Bradshaw, Phoenix, Arizona, Dale Krouse, Westmorland, and Richard Krouse (Joyce), Reading, Massachusetts. &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Agnes Whitworth, Eunice Ruse, Betty Berens, Raymond Krouse, Gilbert Krouse, and Donald Krouse.Funeral services will be held at 1:30 pm, Monday, January 11, 2021, at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home, 4370 Salzer Road just west of Wamego. &nbsp;Burial will follow at Westmoreland City Cemetery. &nbsp;On Sunday, January 10, 2021, between the hours of 1:00 pm and 6:00 pm, friends and family may come and pay their respects. &nbsp;The family suggests memorial contributions to Wellspring of Westmoreland, and those may be sent in care of the funeral home.&nbsp;

Lawrence Oscar Krouse

Ronald LeRoy Haug, 86, of Council Grove, Kansas, passed away January 6, 2021, at Diversicare of Council Grove. He was born&nbsp;November 11, 1934&nbsp;to Chester W. and Lulu (Child) Haug in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He graduated from Cheyenne High School in 1953 and Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas in 1957.

Ron married Maxine E. Morrison on&nbsp;June 3, 1956&nbsp;in Ottawa, KS. They had four children: Randall, Julie, Rick and Jennifer.

He was a member of Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church, where he served on many different boards and was an active member in the community.

He is survived by daughters: &nbsp;Julie Moye of Cherokee, IA and Jenny O’Neil and husband Glenn of Topeka, KS; son Rick Haug and wife Denise of Council Grove, KS; grandchildren: Danielle Goodhall (Nick) of Perry, IA, Jake Moye of Des Moines, IA, Dillon Moye ( Becca) of San Diego, CA, Allison &nbsp;Ciolek (Ken) of Bryan, OH, Brett O’Neil of Hillsboro, TX, Trey O’Neil of Hays, KS, Cindy Stewart (Stacey) of Council Grove, KS and Kellee Kolean (Eric) of Topeka, KS; great grandchildren: Jaxen Stewart,&nbsp; Berlyn and Beckam Kolean, Adler and Reece Goodhall, and Gunnar Moye;&nbsp; sister Beth Whitaker of Vian, OK; and several nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, son Randy Haug and wife Maxine.

Due to the Corona Pandemic, funeral services will be at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church and may be sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS.&nbsp;

Ronald LeRoy Haug, 86, of Council Grove, Kansas, passed away January 6, 2021, at Diversicare of Council Grove. He was born&nbsp;November 11, 1934&nbsp;to Chester W. and Lulu (Child) Haug in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He graduated from Cheyenne High School in 1953 and Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas in 1957.Ron married Maxine E. Morrison on&nbsp;June 3, 1956&nbsp;in Ottawa, KS. They had four children: Randall, Julie, Rick and Jennifer.He was a member of Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church, where he served on many different boards and was an active member in the community.He is survived by daughters: &nbsp;Julie Moye of Cherokee, IA and Jenny O’Neil and husband Glenn of Topeka, KS; son Rick Haug and wife Denise of Council Grove, KS; grandchildren: Danielle Goodhall (Nick) of Perry, IA, Jake Moye of Des Moines, IA, Dillon Moye ( Becca) of San Diego, CA, Allison &nbsp;Ciolek (Ken) of Bryan, OH, Brett O’Neil of Hillsboro, TX, Trey O’Neil of Hays, KS, Cindy Stewart (Stacey) of Council Grove, KS and Kellee Kolean (Eric) of Topeka, KS; great grandchildren: Jaxen Stewart,&nbsp; Berlyn and Beckam Kolean, Adler and Reece Goodhall, and Gunnar Moye;&nbsp; sister Beth Whitaker of Vian, OK; and several nieces and nephews.Ron was preceded in death by his parents, son Randy Haug and wife Maxine.Due to the Corona Pandemic, funeral services will be at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church and may be sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS.&nbsp;

Ronald LeRoy Haug

Asako Escott, 87, of Junction City, KS, passed away on December 28, 2020. Johnson Funeral Home of Junction City, KS, is assisting the family with cremation arrangements. Placement at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery, Manhattan, KS, will take place at a later date. Asako was born January 18, 1933, to Eitaro and Tori Iwamoto in Mongawa, Yugawarmacki Ashigarashimogun Kanagawaken, Japan. She grew up in Yugawara Kanagawaken where she graduated from Odawarahi High School and attended two years college in Yokohama, Japan. On March 8, 1956, she married Robert G. Escott in Yokohama, Japan. She worked at Elec-Wire, Inc. and retired in 1991 after 18 years. Survivors include Her husband at home and one son, Leroy Escott of Fort Payne, Alabama, three brothers and one sister in Japan, six grandchildren and 15.5 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, two sisters, one son Robert Jr., and one daughter, Suson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Asako Escott, 87, of Junction City, KS, passed away on December 28, 2020. Johnson Funeral Home of Junction City, KS, is assisting the family with cremation arrangements. Placement at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery, Manhattan, KS, will take place at a later date. Asako was born January 18, 1933, to Eitaro and Tori Iwamoto in Mongawa, Yugawarmacki Ashigarashimogun Kanagawaken, Japan. She grew up in Yugawara Kanagawaken where she graduated from Odawarahi High School and attended two years college in Yokohama, Japan. On March 8, 1956, she married Robert G. Escott in Yokohama, Japan. She worked at Elec-Wire, Inc. and retired in 1991 after 18 years. Survivors include Her husband at home and one son, Leroy Escott of Fort Payne, Alabama, three brothers and one sister in Japan, six grandchildren and 15.5 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, two sisters, one son Robert Jr., and one daughter, Suson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Asako Escott

Pyong Ok "Kim" Williams, 78, Junction City, KS, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2021, at the Valley View Senior Life. Cremation has taken place.&nbsp; No memorial service is planned. Kim owned and operated The Party Inn on Grant Avenue in Junction City for many years. People knew her as "Mamason."&nbsp; Her hobby was gardening and she loved animals especially dogs.

Pyong Ok "Kim" Williams, 78, Junction City, KS, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2021, at the Valley View Senior Life. Cremation has taken place.&nbsp; No memorial service is planned. Kim owned and operated The Party Inn on Grant Avenue in Junction City for many years. People knew her as "Mamason."&nbsp; Her hobby was gardening and she loved animals especially dogs.

Pyong Ok "Kim" Williams,

Harold F. Trumpp, age 96 of Leonardville, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2021 at the Leonardville Nursing Home.

He was born on April 13, 1924 in Clay Center, the son of Fred G. and Ruth (Nauerth) Trumpp.

On September 17, 1947 he was married to Gladys Rose Friederich at her family home in rural Clay Center.  She preceded him in death on April 27, 2006.&nbsp; &nbsp;Harold was farmer and pure bred Angus stockman.&nbsp; He was a lifelong member of the Ebenezer United Methodist Church.



In addition to his wife Gladys, he was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Arnold Trumpp and his wife Wilma and one sister, Helen Lund and her husband Donald.

He is survived by two sisters, Betty Thackeray and husband Raymond of Havre, Montana and Alvena Wilgers and husband Leonard of Clay Center and many nieces and nephews.



Respect calls may be made from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Thursday January 7, 2021 and also from 8:00 a.m until 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 8, 2021 at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, January 8, 2021 at the Ebenezer Cemetery with Pastor Lillian Flegle officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Leonardville Nursing Home and Ebenezer United Methodist Church.  Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Harold F. Trumpp, age 96 of Leonardville, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2021 at the Leonardville Nursing Home.

He was born on April 13, 1924 in Clay Center, the son of Fred G. and Ruth (Nauerth) Trumpp.

On September 17, 1947 he was married to Gladys Rose Friederich at her family home in rural Clay Center. She preceded him in death on April 27, 2006.&nbsp; &nbsp;Harold was farmer and pure bred Angus stockman.&nbsp; He was a lifelong member of the Ebenezer United Methodist Church.

In addition to his wife Gladys, he was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Arnold Trumpp and his wife Wilma and one sister, Helen Lund and her husband Donald.

He is survived by two sisters, Betty Thackeray and husband Raymond of Havre, Montana and Alvena Wilgers and husband Leonard of Clay Center and many nieces and nephews.

Respect calls may be made from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Thursday January 7, 2021 and also from 8:00 a.m until 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 8, 2021 at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, January 8, 2021 at the Ebenezer Cemetery with Pastor Lillian Flegle officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Leonardville Nursing Home and Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Harold F. Trumpp

Leota Fessenden passed away January 3, 2021 at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson, KS at the age of 99.

She was born on October 28, 1921 in Clifton, KS, the youngest child of Charles and Catherine (Straub) Wurtz.

She married Dale Fessenden on February 14, 1953 in Concordia, KS.&nbsp; To this union they had two sons, Charles and Craig.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Cecelia Swaim, Daphna Wilson, Lyola Martens, Delbert Wurtz, Leighton Wurtz and infant brother Donald Wurtz.

She is survived by her husband, Dale Fessenden, sons Charles (Jennifer) Fessenden of Almena, KS and Craig (Kay) Fessenden of Houston, TX.&nbsp; Grandchildren Cory (Jennifer) Fessenden, Cathryn (Jeremy) Horn and Regan (Paul) Schupmann.&nbsp; Six great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation is planned with a memorial service at a later date due to Covid.

Leota Fessenden passed away January 3, 2021 at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson, KS at the age of 99.She was born on October 28, 1921 in Clifton, KS, the youngest child of Charles and Catherine (Straub) Wurtz.She married Dale Fessenden on February 14, 1953 in Concordia, KS.&nbsp; To this union they had two sons, Charles and Craig.She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Cecelia Swaim, Daphna Wilson, Lyola Martens, Delbert Wurtz, Leighton Wurtz and infant brother Donald Wurtz.She is survived by her husband, Dale Fessenden, sons Charles (Jennifer) Fessenden of Almena, KS and Craig (Kay) Fessenden of Houston, TX.&nbsp; Grandchildren Cory (Jennifer) Fessenden, Cathryn (Jeremy) Horn and Regan (Paul) Schupmann.&nbsp; Six great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.Cremation is planned with a memorial service at a later date due to Covid.

Leota Fessenden

Virginia Belle Marshall Starkweather, age 99, died January 2, 2021 at Eddy Village Green in Cohoes, New York.&nbsp; She was born in Hennessey, Oklahoma on October 11, 1921, and moved with her family to Clay Center at the age of two.&nbsp; Her parents were Porter and Ernestine (Mall) Marshall.&nbsp; She attended Clay Center schools and graduated from CCCHS in 1939.&nbsp; She graduated from the University of Kansas in 1943 with a BFA degree majoring in commercial art.&nbsp; She was a member of Chi Omega Sorority.&nbsp; She was greatly interested in architecture and landscape design.&nbsp; She returned home to work as a bookkeeper at Marshalls, Inc.

On May 18, 1944 she married First Lieutenant Lloyd A. Starkweather, who had returned from the European Theatre of operations in World War II.&nbsp; That first year they resided in Louisiana, Texas, and Nebraska before making their home in Clay Center.&nbsp; They had four children:&nbsp; Mary Lou, JoAnne, John Marshall and Lee Arnold.

Virginia’s top priority was her home and family.&nbsp; She was a member of the United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women and served on local, district, conference and jurisdiction levels of both.&nbsp; She was president of the local unit of UMW and was the first woman Lay Leader of the Clay Center United Methodist Church.&nbsp; She was the first woman to be Chairperson of the Kansas West Conference Council on Ministries.&nbsp; She was Dean of the West Gulf Regional School of Christian Mission.&nbsp; She served on the Wesley Task Force, and was a trustee of the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund.&nbsp; She also served as Secretary of Kansas Church Women United.

Locally Virginia served as president of the board of the Clay Center Carnegie Library and helped organize the Friends of the Library.&nbsp; She was president of Chapter AS of P.E.O., the NEA Study Club, Red Cross Volunteers and Lioness Club.&nbsp; She served on the Board of Directors for the Clay County Children’s Trust.&nbsp; Her hobby was landscape gardening.&nbsp;

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Lloyd, her daughter, Mary Lou Slaughter, and her step-granddaughter, Kristen Kennedy.&nbsp; She is survived by her daughter JoAnne Chapman of Delmar, New York, sons John (Midori) of Woodland Hills and Lee (Teri) of Laguna Niguel, California, eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.&nbsp; She is also survived by a son-in-law, Douglas Slaughter and wife, Karolyn, two step-grandsons, and six step-great-grandchildren.&nbsp; She is also survived by Lorenzo Cugniet Elizondo of Santiago, Chile, American Field Service student, who lived with the family 1969-70.&nbsp;

Memorials are suggested to Clay County Children’s Trust in care of Neill Schwensen Rook Funeral Home.

Virginia Belle Marshall Starkweather, age 99, died January 2, 2021 at Eddy Village Green in Cohoes, New York.&nbsp; She was born in Hennessey, Oklahoma on October 11, 1921, and moved with her family to Clay Center at the age of two.&nbsp; Her parents were Porter and Ernestine (Mall) Marshall.&nbsp; She attended Clay Center schools and graduated from CCCHS in 1939.&nbsp; She graduated from the University of Kansas in 1943 with a BFA degree majoring in commercial art.&nbsp; She was a member of Chi Omega Sorority.&nbsp; She was greatly interested in architecture and landscape design.&nbsp; She returned home to work as a bookkeeper at Marshalls, Inc.On May 18, 1944 she married First Lieutenant Lloyd A. Starkweather, who had returned from the European Theatre of operations in World War II.&nbsp; That first year they resided in Louisiana, Texas, and Nebraska before making their home in Clay Center.&nbsp; They had four children:&nbsp; Mary Lou, JoAnne, John Marshall and Lee Arnold.Virginia’s top priority was her home and family.&nbsp; She was a member of the United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women and served on local, district, conference and jurisdiction levels of both.&nbsp; She was president of the local unit of UMW and was the first woman Lay Leader of the Clay Center United Methodist Church.&nbsp; She was the first woman to be Chairperson of the Kansas West Conference Council on Ministries.&nbsp; She was Dean of the West Gulf Regional School of Christian Mission.&nbsp; She served on the Wesley Task Force, and was a trustee of the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund.&nbsp; She also served as Secretary of Kansas Church Women United.Locally Virginia served as president of the board of the Clay Center Carnegie Library and helped organize the Friends of the Library.&nbsp; She was president of Chapter AS of P.E.O., the NEA Study Club, Red Cross Volunteers and Lioness Club.&nbsp; She served on the Board of Directors for the Clay County Children’s Trust.&nbsp; Her hobby was landscape gardening.&nbsp;Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Lloyd, her daughter, Mary Lou Slaughter, and her step-granddaughter, Kristen Kennedy.&nbsp; She is survived by her daughter JoAnne Chapman of Delmar, New York, sons John (Midori) of Woodland Hills and Lee (Teri) of Laguna Niguel, California, eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.&nbsp; She is also survived by a son-in-law, Douglas Slaughter and wife, Karolyn, two step-grandsons, and six step-great-grandchildren.&nbsp; She is also survived by Lorenzo Cugniet Elizondo of Santiago, Chile, American Field Service student, who lived with the family 1969-70.&nbsp;Memorials are suggested to Clay County Children’s Trust in care of Neill Schwensen Rook Funeral Home.

Virginia Belle Marshall Starkweather

Rex Carl Green, 80, Wheaton, KS passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, KS.

On January 8, 1940, Rex was born to Frank and Thelma (Hines) Green in Sheridan, Indiana.&nbsp; After graduating from high school, Rex enlisted in the United States Army where he served on many fronts.&nbsp; He also worked for the United States Department of Defense where he gave 20 years of civil service.&nbsp; Rex was a member of the Westmoreland United Methodist Church, the Onaga and Mayetta Masonic Lodge, and the Topeka Shriners.&nbsp;

Rex was proud to serve his country.&nbsp; He spent over 22 years as a member of the Army.&nbsp; He served in Korea, Japan, Okinawa, Germany, France, Italy, Panama, Alaska, England, and did two tours in Vietnam.&nbsp; Rex served as an Ammunition Tech most of his time in the Army and was decorated with several medals and commendations, including the Bronze Star.&nbsp; After retiring from the United States Army in 1980 as a Chief Warrant Officer 4, Rex started working for the United States Department of Defense where he retired in 1999.&nbsp; He spent time in Hawaii, Savannah Army Depot, Rock Island Arsenal and at the Pentagon, working with American and foreign weapons and munitions. &nbsp;When Rex wasn’t working, he devoted his love, time and energy into his family, friends and community.

He is survived by two sons, Eric (Melissa) Green, Wheaton, KS, and Rex Green, II, Indiana; three grandchildren, Brittney (Robert) Tilley, Topeka, KS, Elias Green, Emporia, KS, and Cheyenne Green, Wheaton, KS; and two great-grandchildren, Ryleigh and Cameron Tilley.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, January 8, 2021 at the Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego with social distancing and COVID guidelines in place.&nbsp; Private family graveside services will follow in the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery at Ft. Riley. Rex will lie in-state from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 7, 2021 at the Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego with visitation to follow from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. &nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Rex Green Memorial Fund, and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, Kansas 66547.&nbsp;

Rex Carl Green, 80, Wheaton, KS passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, KS.On January 8, 1940, Rex was born to Frank and Thelma (Hines) Green in Sheridan, Indiana.&nbsp; After graduating from high school, Rex enlisted in the United States Army where he served on many fronts.&nbsp; He also worked for the United States Department of Defense where he gave 20 years of civil service.&nbsp; Rex was a member of the Westmoreland United Methodist Church, the Onaga and Mayetta Masonic Lodge, and the Topeka Shriners.&nbsp;Rex was proud to serve his country.&nbsp; He spent over 22 years as a member of the Army.&nbsp; He served in Korea, Japan, Okinawa, Germany, France, Italy, Panama, Alaska, England, and did two tours in Vietnam.&nbsp; Rex served as an Ammunition Tech most of his time in the Army and was decorated with several medals and commendations, including the Bronze Star.&nbsp; After retiring from the United States Army in 1980 as a Chief Warrant Officer 4, Rex started working for the United States Department of Defense where he retired in 1999.&nbsp; He spent time in Hawaii, Savannah Army Depot, Rock Island Arsenal and at the Pentagon, working with American and foreign weapons and munitions. &nbsp;When Rex wasn’t working, he devoted his love, time and energy into his family, friends and community.He is survived by two sons, Eric (Melissa) Green, Wheaton, KS, and Rex Green, II, Indiana; three grandchildren, Brittney (Robert) Tilley, Topeka, KS, Elias Green, Emporia, KS, and Cheyenne Green, Wheaton, KS; and two great-grandchildren, Ryleigh and Cameron Tilley.He is preceded in death by his parents.Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, January 8, 2021 at the Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego with social distancing and COVID guidelines in place.&nbsp; Private family graveside services will follow in the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery at Ft. Riley. Rex will lie in-state from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 7, 2021 at the Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego with visitation to follow from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. &nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the Rex Green Memorial Fund, and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, Kansas 66547.&nbsp;

Rex Carl Green

Francis Gilbert "Frank" Knerr, age 86, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away Sunday, December 27, 2020 at his home.

He was born January 31, 1934 in a boxcar at Douglass, Kansas the son of Clarence and Sarah Lucille (Althouse) White. Later he and his 2 brothers were put in the Newton Children's Home. His brothers were adopted into the C.C. Rice family and Frank was adopted into the Clare and Anna Knerr family at Talmage, Kansas along with his sister Ilene (Knerr) Holt.

Following his graduation from Chapman High School Frank served his country in the United States Navy on a destroyer touring around the world for 9 years as a boiler man. He later worked for KP&amp;L (Riverside by Brown's Park) in Abilene and for Westar Energy in Tecumseh, Kansas. Following his retirement, Frank worked for Wal-Mart in Topeka as a maintenance person.

On December 29, 1955 Frank was united in marriage to JoDel (Houtz) at the Talmage United Methodist Church. They missed celebrating 65 years of marriage by two days.

Frank was a Boy Scout volunteer and coached boys baseball.

He is survived by his loving wife JoDel of the home, sons Kenneth (Karen Alvarado) of Salina, Henry (Sharon) of Germantown, Tennessee, Delbert (Marilee) of Columbia, Missouri, ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brothers Kenneth Eugene and Paul Edward Rice, sister Ilene Holt, and his parents.

Funeral services for Frank will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at the Danner Funeral Home with Pastor Lindsey Brummer officiating. His final resting place will be in the Abilene Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the United States Navy Honor Guard. There will be no visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to the Organization of the Donor's Choice and may be sent in care of the Danner Funeral Home 501 N. Buckeye, Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Francis Gilbert "Frank" Knerr, age 86, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away Sunday, December 27, 2020 at his home.He was born January 31, 1934 in a boxcar at Douglass, Kansas the son of Clarence and Sarah Lucille (Althouse) White. Later he and his 2 brothers were put in the Newton Children's Home. His brothers were adopted into the C.C. Rice family and Frank was adopted into the Clare and Anna Knerr family at Talmage, Kansas along with his sister Ilene (Knerr) Holt. Following his graduation from Chapman High School Frank served his country in the United States Navy on a destroyer touring around the world for 9 years as a boiler man. He later worked for KP&amp;L (Riverside by Brown's Park) in Abilene and for Westar Energy in Tecumseh, Kansas. Following his retirement, Frank worked for Wal-Mart in Topeka as a maintenance person. On December 29, 1955 Frank was united in marriage to JoDel (Houtz) at the Talmage United Methodist Church. They missed celebrating 65 years of marriage by two days. Frank was a Boy Scout volunteer and coached boys baseball. He is survived by his loving wife JoDel of the home, sons Kenneth (Karen Alvarado) of Salina, Henry (Sharon) of Germantown, Tennessee, Delbert (Marilee) of Columbia, Missouri, ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brothers Kenneth Eugene and Paul Edward Rice, sister Ilene Holt, and his parents. Funeral services for Frank will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at the Danner Funeral Home with Pastor Lindsey Brummer officiating. His final resting place will be in the Abilene Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the United States Navy Honor Guard. There will be no visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to the Organization of the Donor's Choice and may be sent in care of the Danner Funeral Home 501 N. Buckeye, Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Francis Gilbert "Frank" Knerr

Merlin D. Riffel, 84 of Enterprise passed away January 3, 2021 at Memorial Hospital in Abilene.

 He was born August 14, 1936 on the farm close to Hope, KS , the son of Benjamin and Ella (Lorei) Riffel On May 20 1972, he was united in marriage to Jane Swisher. She preceded him in death November 2, 2011. Merlin worked on a road crew/highway construction worker.

Merlin is survived by his siblings: Leland Riffel (Grace) of Lafayette, Colorado; Lela Mae Trent (Clarence) of Wichita, Kansas; Connie Davis of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Linda Donnelly (John) of Elmo, Kansas; Bonnie McGilbra (Frank) of Owasso, Oklahoma; Debbie Middleton of Ft. Smith, Arkansas; Becky Lang of Burlingame, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and Stepmother Josephine Riffel.

The family has chosen cremation. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date at Gypsum Hill Cemetery. The family suggest memorials be given to the Enterprise Estates Nursing Home. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St. Abilene, Kansas 67410&nbsp;&nbsp;

Merlin D. Riffel, 84 of Enterprise passed away January 3, 2021 at Memorial Hospital in Abilene. He was born August 14, 1936 on the farm close to Hope, KS , the son of Benjamin and Ella (Lorei) Riffel On May 20 1972, he was united in marriage to Jane Swisher. She preceded him in death November 2, 2011. Merlin worked on a road crew/highway construction worker. Merlin is survived by his siblings: Leland Riffel (Grace) of Lafayette, Colorado; Lela Mae Trent (Clarence) of Wichita, Kansas; Connie Davis of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Linda Donnelly (John) of Elmo, Kansas; Bonnie McGilbra (Frank) of Owasso, Oklahoma; Debbie Middleton of Ft. Smith, Arkansas; Becky Lang of Burlingame, Kansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and Stepmother Josephine Riffel. The family has chosen cremation. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date at Gypsum Hill Cemetery. The family suggest memorials be given to the Enterprise Estates Nursing Home. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St. Abilene, Kansas 67410&nbsp;&nbsp;

Merlin D. Riffel

Erika Lynn Rein-Mills born April 11, 1985 in Salina, Kansas and died January 3, 2021 in Abilene, Kansas.

 She grew up in Abilene and graduated from Abilene High School with the class of 2003. She attended Hutchinson Community College and graduated with a degree in Respiratory Therapy from Washburn University. She worked at Stormont Vail in Topeka as a respiratory therapist for 8 years before moving back to Abilene. Before Stormont she worked at Tailgators Pub &amp; Grub in Topeka while attending Washburn. She was full of life and a wonderful loving Mother to her son Kyler and loving Daughter and Sister.

She was preceded in death by her Grandma and Grandpa Hein and Grandpa Rein and Uncle John Rein. Surviving is her 11 year old son Kyler, boyfriend Cole Applehans, her Mother, Connie Karsmizki and Step-Father Rob, her Father Ron Rein and Step-Mother Debbie, her Brothers Matthew (Nina Gerken) Rein and Brandon (Sara Gammon) Rein, her Grandmother Joyce Rein, her Uncles Verlyn (Pam) Rein, Curtis (Sandy) Rein, Roger (Dixie) Hein, Don (Petra) Hein, Mike (Dustine) Hein, her Aunts Judy (Ron) Brown, JoAnn (Gene) Trenary, Carla (George) Stanley, Vicki (Steve) Gieber, Step-Siblings Jared Karsmizki, Tracy (Allison) Copenhaver , Tabetha Wenger as well as many cousins and friends. The family has chosen cremation and will receive friends Friday January 8, 2021 at New Trail Fellowship Church located at 1157 2400 Avenue Abilene, KS 67410 from 12:30 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. with a graveside service following at 3:00 P.M. at Abilene City Cemetery with Pastor Stan Norman officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Erika Lynn Mills Memorial Fund for Kyler Mills' Education Fund. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home at 414 NW Third St. Abilene, KS 67410 or First Bank Kansas-Abilene at P.O. Box 37 Abilene, KS 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Erika Lynn Rein-Mills born April 11, 1985 in Salina, Kansas and died January 3, 2021 in Abilene, Kansas. She grew up in Abilene and graduated from Abilene High School with the class of 2003. She attended Hutchinson Community College and graduated with a degree in Respiratory Therapy from Washburn University. She worked at Stormont Vail in Topeka as a respiratory therapist for 8 years before moving back to Abilene. Before Stormont she worked at Tailgators Pub &amp; Grub in Topeka while attending Washburn. She was full of life and a wonderful loving Mother to her son Kyler and loving Daughter and Sister. She was preceded in death by her Grandma and Grandpa Hein and Grandpa Rein and Uncle John Rein. Surviving is her 11 year old son Kyler, boyfriend Cole Applehans, her Mother, Connie Karsmizki and Step-Father Rob, her Father Ron Rein and Step-Mother Debbie, her Brothers Matthew (Nina Gerken) Rein and Brandon (Sara Gammon) Rein, her Grandmother Joyce Rein, her Uncles Verlyn (Pam) Rein, Curtis (Sandy) Rein, Roger (Dixie) Hein, Don (Petra) Hein, Mike (Dustine) Hein, her Aunts Judy (Ron) Brown, JoAnn (Gene) Trenary, Carla (George) Stanley, Vicki (Steve) Gieber, Step-Siblings Jared Karsmizki, Tracy (Allison) Copenhaver , Tabetha Wenger as well as many cousins and friends. The family has chosen cremation and will receive friends Friday January 8, 2021 at New Trail Fellowship Church located at 1157 2400 Avenue Abilene, KS 67410 from 12:30 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. with a graveside service following at 3:00 P.M. at Abilene City Cemetery with Pastor Stan Norman officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Erika Lynn Mills Memorial Fund for Kyler Mills' Education Fund. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home at 414 NW Third St. Abilene, KS 67410 or First Bank Kansas-Abilene at P.O. Box 37 Abilene, KS 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Erika Lynn Rein-Mills

James Emile-Valere Spencer, 69, Manhattan, KS, (formerly of Menomonie, WI) died Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2020, after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was born May 2, 1951, in Blue Earth, MN, to Eldon and Marie (Molle) Spencer. After graduating from Blue Earth High School, he attended St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. He went on to earn a M.A. from the University of Minnesota. On Dec. 4, 1976, he married Charlotte Kisling from Cameron, WI. They had two sons, Ryan and Craig. Jim worked for the L. E. Phillips Career Development Center in Eau Claire, WI, as the Director of Placement Services for many years. He took great pride in his work helping people find employment. Jim volunteered for youth athletics, the church and many service organizations. He enjoyed spending time with his family—especially his four grandchildren, playing tennis with friends, and traveling. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte; two sons, Ryan (Suzanne) of Seattle, WA, and Craig (NgocTam) of Manhattan, KS; four grandchildren, Ethan, Logan, Christopher and Caitlyn; a brother, Eldon (Ann) Spencer of Bloomington, MN; a sister, Cynthia (Gary) Vennes of Hunt, TX; an aunt, Elizabeth Spencer of Roseville, CA; brothers-in-law, Larry Kisling of Grand Junction, CO, Steven Kisling, Michael (Mary Lee) Kisling, Mark (Lori) Kisling of Cameron, WI, Brad (Sheila) Kisling of Rice Lake, WI; two sisters-in-law, Sharon (Roger) Kaiser and Kathy (Robert) Van Helden of Cameron, WI; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jim was preceded in death by his parents. A Mass of Christian burial will be held for the immediate family on Monday, January 11, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Manhattan, KS with Fr. Frank Coady officiating. A celebration of life will be held in Wisconsin at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the L.E. Phillips Career Development Center or to the HealthWell Foundation which helps people in need meet their health care treatment costs. Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.

James Emile-Valere Spencer, 69, Manhattan, KS, (formerly of Menomonie, WI) died Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2020, after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was born May 2, 1951, in Blue Earth, MN, to Eldon and Marie (Molle) Spencer. After graduating from Blue Earth High School, he attended St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. He went on to earn a M.A. from the University of Minnesota. On Dec. 4, 1976, he married Charlotte Kisling from Cameron, WI. They had two sons, Ryan and Craig. Jim worked for the L. E. Phillips Career Development Center in Eau Claire, WI, as the Director of Placement Services for many years. He took great pride in his work helping people find employment. Jim volunteered for youth athletics, the church and many service organizations. He enjoyed spending time with his family—especially his four grandchildren, playing tennis with friends, and traveling. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte; two sons, Ryan (Suzanne) of Seattle, WA, and Craig (NgocTam) of Manhattan, KS; four grandchildren, Ethan, Logan, Christopher and Caitlyn; a brother, Eldon (Ann) Spencer of Bloomington, MN; a sister, Cynthia (Gary) Vennes of Hunt, TX; an aunt, Elizabeth Spencer of Roseville, CA; brothers-in-law, Larry Kisling of Grand Junction, CO, Steven Kisling, Michael (Mary Lee) Kisling, Mark (Lori) Kisling of Cameron, WI, Brad (Sheila) Kisling of Rice Lake, WI; two sisters-in-law, Sharon (Roger) Kaiser and Kathy (Robert) Van Helden of Cameron, WI; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jim was preceded in death by his parents. A Mass of Christian burial will be held for the immediate family on Monday, January 11, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Manhattan, KS with Fr. Frank Coady officiating. A celebration of life will be held in Wisconsin at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the L.E. Phillips Career Development Center or to the HealthWell Foundation which helps people in need meet their health care treatment costs. Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.

James Emile-Valere Spencer

Leona Ruby (Stilley) Boggs, 86, of Manhattan, KS, passed away on January 3, 2021, at Stoneybrook Memory Care in Manhattan. She was born on October 10, 1934, in rural Randolph, KS, to John Howard Stilley and Ethel Ruby (Lilley) Stilley. She married Jasper "Junior" Boggs Jr. on April 25, 1955, in Manhattan, KS. She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant son Charles Lee Boggs; two sisters Wanda Jean (Stilley) Wedekind, and Juanita June (Stilley) Wyant. Leona is survived by her husband, six children: Dale (DD) Boggs, of Wamego; David (Donna) Boggs, of Oklahoma, Sharon (Dana) Wahl, of Wamego, James (Lori) Boggs of Wamego, Mark (Lorrie) Boggs of Riley, and Jay (Melissa) Boggs of Florida, a sister Evelyn Smallwood of Missouri, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Interment will be at the Louisville Cemetery, Louisville, KS Tuesday, January 5, 2021. Arrangements have been entrusted to Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home and Cremation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Leona Ruby (Stilley) Boggs, 86, of Manhattan, KS, passed away on January 3, 2021, at Stoneybrook Memory Care in Manhattan. She was born on October 10, 1934, in rural Randolph, KS, to John Howard Stilley and Ethel Ruby (Lilley) Stilley. She married Jasper "Junior" Boggs Jr. on April 25, 1955, in Manhattan, KS. She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant son Charles Lee Boggs; two sisters Wanda Jean (Stilley) Wedekind, and Juanita June (Stilley) Wyant. Leona is survived by her husband, six children: Dale (DD) Boggs, of Wamego; David (Donna) Boggs, of Oklahoma, Sharon (Dana) Wahl, of Wamego, James (Lori) Boggs of Wamego, Mark (Lorrie) Boggs of Riley, and Jay (Melissa) Boggs of Florida, a sister Evelyn Smallwood of Missouri, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Interment will be at the Louisville Cemetery, Louisville, KS Tuesday, January 5, 2021. Arrangements have been entrusted to Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home and Cremation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Leona Ruby (Stilley) Boggs

Sharon Joann Amos, 60, daughter of Max and Ruth Amos of Council Grove died January 3, 2021 after a long battle with cancer. Sharon was born in Manhattan, Kansas, December 8, 1960. Proceeded in death by grandparents John &amp; Alice Amos and Ray &amp; Fannie Crosby. Surviving siblings include Jay M. Amos (Cindy) and Karen Amos Grimes (David), three nephews Parker, Cameron and Nathan, and one niece, Rebecca. She also leaves behind loving friend Phil Haskell. Sharon attended elementary and high school in Rolla, Missouri and graduated from the University of Missouri-Rolla with a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Management. She was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. Sharon spent her working career at Hallmark in Kansas City, where she spent 31 years as a packaging engineer. She love Jesus and served as a lay leader with Rhythm of Grace Church and was a supporting member of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. In 2016, Sharon retired to the family farm in Council Grove and quickly became acquainted with friends in church, the library and Morris County Historical&nbsp; Society. She became a member of PEO Chapter H and the Kansas Barn Alliance.

Her courage and determination to fight cancer was admired by friends and family. She will be greatly missed. Funeral service to be held Tuesday at 3:00 at Sunny Slopes Cemetery. Masks and social distancing are requested. Condolences can be sent to Sawyer Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Morris County Historical Society, Council Grove Christian Church, First Congregational UCC, or PEO Chapter H.

Sharon Joann Amos, 60, daughter of Max and Ruth Amos of Council Grove died January 3, 2021 after a long battle with cancer. Sharon was born in Manhattan, Kansas, December 8, 1960. Proceeded in death by grandparents John &amp; Alice Amos and Ray &amp; Fannie Crosby. Surviving siblings include Jay M. Amos (Cindy) and Karen Amos Grimes (David), three nephews Parker, Cameron and Nathan, and one niece, Rebecca. She also leaves behind loving friend Phil Haskell. Sharon attended elementary and high school in Rolla, Missouri and graduated from the University of Missouri-Rolla with a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Management. She was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. Sharon spent her working career at Hallmark in Kansas City, where she spent 31 years as a packaging engineer. She love Jesus and served as a lay leader with Rhythm of Grace Church and was a supporting member of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. In 2016, Sharon retired to the family farm in Council Grove and quickly became acquainted with friends in church, the library and Morris County Historical&nbsp; Society. She became a member of PEO Chapter H and the Kansas Barn Alliance.Her courage and determination to fight cancer was admired by friends and family. She will be greatly missed. Funeral service to be held Tuesday at 3:00 at Sunny Slopes Cemetery. Masks and social distancing are requested. Condolences can be sent to Sawyer Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Morris County Historical Society, Council Grove Christian Church, First Congregational UCC, or PEO Chapter H.

Sharon Joann Amos

Thomas P. Metsala, 81, of Topeka, Kansas passed away on December 28, 2020 in the loving care of the Valley View Senior Life Center of Junction City, Kansas. Respect Hours will be held Tuesday, January 5 from 5-7 p.m. at the Johnson Funeral Home, 203 N. Washington Street in Junction City. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, January 6 at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, with Pastor Lorenzo Jackson officiating. Social distancing and COVID-19 protocols will be observed during all social gatherings. Thomas was born on June 20, 1939 in Chicago, Illinois to Victor VanHala and Aune (Metsala) VanHala. He was raised in Gwinn, Michigan and subsequently enlisted in the US Navy before transferring to the US Army. He served honorably for 20 years in duty stations throughout the US and Germany with a combat tour in Vietnam. In his first duty station in Germany, he met the love of his life, Maria Hoffegesang. After his military retirement, Thomas continued to serve as a civilian with the US Army at the Fort Riley Cavalry Museum. Thomas enjoyed many years of Sunday School teaching, was an avid reader especially with American Civil War history, and loved spending time with family and friends. He was a devout Christian who epitomized service to others. Thomas is survived by his wife of 58 years Maria, sons Daniel and wife Elena, Thomas and wife Becky, daughters Andrea Burdick, Ilonka Fuster, Tatjana Ramos and husband Michael, six grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary, and grandson Julian Ramos. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Thomas’ honor to the Parkinson Foundation at www.parkinson.org or Army Emergency Relief at www.armyemergencyrelief.org&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thomas P. Metsala, 81, of Topeka, Kansas passed away on December 28, 2020 in the loving care of the Valley View Senior Life Center of Junction City, Kansas. Respect Hours will be held Tuesday, January 5 from 5-7 p.m. at the Johnson Funeral Home, 203 N. Washington Street in Junction City. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, January 6 at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, with Pastor Lorenzo Jackson officiating. Social distancing and COVID-19 protocols will be observed during all social gatherings. Thomas was born on June 20, 1939 in Chicago, Illinois to Victor VanHala and Aune (Metsala) VanHala. He was raised in Gwinn, Michigan and subsequently enlisted in the US Navy before transferring to the US Army. He served honorably for 20 years in duty stations throughout the US and Germany with a combat tour in Vietnam. In his first duty station in Germany, he met the love of his life, Maria Hoffegesang. After his military retirement, Thomas continued to serve as a civilian with the US Army at the Fort Riley Cavalry Museum. Thomas enjoyed many years of Sunday School teaching, was an avid reader especially with American Civil War history, and loved spending time with family and friends. He was a devout Christian who epitomized service to others. Thomas is survived by his wife of 58 years Maria, sons Daniel and wife Elena, Thomas and wife Becky, daughters Andrea Burdick, Ilonka Fuster, Tatjana Ramos and husband Michael, six grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary, and grandson Julian Ramos. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Thomas’ honor to the Parkinson Foundation at www.parkinson.org or Army Emergency Relief at www.armyemergencyrelief.org&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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