

Ozella Gillespie, 78, of Junction City, KS, formerly of Brooklyn, NY, passed away on April 4, 2020.&nbsp; Johnson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. In light of the recent world events, there will only be a private family gathering followed by burial at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery of Manhattan, KS.

Ozella was born on August 16, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York to Osborn and Matilda (Nolan) Brown-Bey. She grew up there attending the local schools and graduated from the Franklin K. Lane High School of Brooklyn. After high school, she attended NYU for two years. On July 7, 1962 she married her high school sweet-heart Lawrence Gillespie. Together they lived in many duty stations domestically and abroad. In 1982, Lawrence retired at Fort Riley, Kansas, after proudly serving over 20 years in the United States Army. They have since lived in Junction City, Kansas.

Ozella was a very creative woman. She was a craftswoman. She knitted, crocheted, and did many other handy projects. She was also an accomplished cook. Above all, she was a dedicated wife, loving mother, caring grandmother, and adoring great-grandmother.

Ozella is survived by her loving family: husband, Lawrence of Junction City, KS, formerly of Brooklyn, NY; her son, Lawrence Gillespie, Jr. of Junction City, KS; daughter, Kim McGriff of Portsmouth, VA; 3 granddaughters; 2 great-granddaughters; fur baby Buddy of Junction City, KS; and a host of loving family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings.



Ozella Gillespie, 78, of Junction City, KS, formerly of Brooklyn, NY, passed away on April 4, 2020.&nbsp; Johnson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. In light of the recent world events, there will only be a private family gathering followed by burial at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery of Manhattan, KS.Ozella was born on August 16, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York to Osborn and Matilda (Nolan) Brown-Bey. She grew up there attending the local schools and graduated from the Franklin K. Lane High School of Brooklyn. After high school, she attended NYU for two years. On July 7, 1962 she married her high school sweet-heart Lawrence Gillespie. Together they lived in many duty stations domestically and abroad. In 1982, Lawrence retired at Fort Riley, Kansas, after proudly serving over 20 years in the United States Army. They have since lived in Junction City, Kansas.Ozella was a very creative woman. She was a craftswoman. She knitted, crocheted, and did many other handy projects. She was also an accomplished cook. Above all, she was a dedicated wife, loving mother, caring grandmother, and adoring great-grandmother.She will be missed.Ozella is survived by her loving family: husband, Lawrence of Junction City, KS, formerly of Brooklyn, NY; her son, Lawrence Gillespie, Jr. of Junction City, KS; daughter, Kim McGriff of Portsmouth, VA; 3 granddaughters; 2 great-granddaughters; fur baby Buddy of Junction City, KS; and a host of loving family and friends.She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings.

Ozella Gillespie

Donald Benjamin Krouse, 92, of rural Westmoreland, Kansas, died Monday, April 6, 2020, at Wellsprings of Westmoreland nursing facility in Westmoreland, Kansas.&nbsp; He had been a life-time resident of the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Don was born November 25, 1927 in rural Wheaton, Kansas, the son of Ernest and Mary Zabel Krouse.&nbsp; He attended local schools and graduated in 1947 from Westmoreland Rural High School.&nbsp; Don served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was cook and stationed in Korea.

Don spent his entire adult life as a farmer and stockman helping operate the family farm south of Westmoreland.&nbsp; Don was a board member for the Farmer’s Co-op for 34 years, served for one year on the FSA Board, and was a life member of the VFW.&nbsp; He also was a member of the Westmoreland American Legion.

Don was known as a jack of all trades.&nbsp; He enjoyed fixing things and was a good mechanic.&nbsp; Don was a K-State sports fan and loved to watch football and basketball.&nbsp; He also enjoyed babysitting for many of his nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his sister, Minnie Bradshaw, Phoenix, Arizona; brothers, Dale Krouse, Westmoreland, Oscar Krouse and his wife, Jean, Westmoreland, and Richard Krouse and his wife, Joyce, Reading, Massachusetts;&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his sisters, Agnes Whitworth, Eunice Ruse, and Betty Berens and brothers, Raymond Krouse and Gilbert Krouse.

Don will lie-state between 9:00 am and 11:00 am, on Thursday, April 9, 2020, at Campanella-Family Funeral Home in Wamego, Kansas.&nbsp; A private service will be held and burial with military honors will follow in the Westmoreland City Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.&nbsp; The family suggests memorial contributions to the Krouse Family Agricultural Scholarship, and those may be sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp;

Donald Benjamin Krouse, 92, of rural Westmoreland, Kansas, died Monday, April 6, 2020, at Wellsprings of Westmoreland nursing facility in Westmoreland, Kansas.&nbsp; He had been a life-time resident of the community.&nbsp;&nbsp;Don was born November 25, 1927 in rural Wheaton, Kansas, the son of Ernest and Mary Zabel Krouse.&nbsp; He attended local schools and graduated in 1947 from Westmoreland Rural High School.&nbsp; Don served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was cook and stationed in Korea.Don spent his entire adult life as a farmer and stockman helping operate the family farm south of Westmoreland.&nbsp; Don was a board member for the Farmer’s Co-op for 34 years, served for one year on the FSA Board, and was a life member of the VFW.&nbsp; He also was a member of the Westmoreland American Legion.Don was known as a jack of all trades.&nbsp; He enjoyed fixing things and was a good mechanic.&nbsp; Don was a K-State sports fan and loved to watch football and basketball.&nbsp; He also enjoyed babysitting for many of his nieces and nephews.He is survived by his sister, Minnie Bradshaw, Phoenix, Arizona; brothers, Dale Krouse, Westmoreland, Oscar Krouse and his wife, Jean, Westmoreland, and Richard Krouse and his wife, Joyce, Reading, Massachusetts;&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his sisters, Agnes Whitworth, Eunice Ruse, and Betty Berens and brothers, Raymond Krouse and Gilbert Krouse.Don will lie-state between 9:00 am and 11:00 am, on Thursday, April 9, 2020, at Campanella-Family Funeral Home in Wamego, Kansas.&nbsp; A private service will be held and burial with military honors will follow in the Westmoreland City Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.&nbsp; The family suggests memorial contributions to the Krouse Family Agricultural Scholarship, and those may be sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp;

Donald Benjamin Krouse

Sarahmae Swanson, 87 of Council Grove, Kansas, passed away April 6th, at Morris County Hospital.&nbsp; She was born July 26, 1932, in DeKalb County, Missouri, the daughter of Joseph and Della (Bromley) Bottorff. She married Arlan Swanson on May 3, 1959. They had two children: Bruce and Janell.

Sarahmae was a member of Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church, Circle Club, UMW, building committee and the choir.&nbsp; She was also a member of the Otetiana Women’s Club, Daughters of the American Revolution and served on the Election Board. She worked for ASCS in Lyons, KS and in Council Grove, and at H&amp;R Block for 20 years, before retiring.

She enjoyed attending her children and grandchildren’s events of all types, square dancing, boating and water skiing, traveling, games, pets, watching sports of all types, volunteering and donating her time to helping others, and being with her friends at bingo and silver sneakers. She was a primary caretaker for several family members.&nbsp; Sarahmae was a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.&nbsp; She enjoyed cooking, and providing a warm, safe and caring home for her family, whom she loved dearly.&nbsp;

Sarahmae was preceded in death by her parents; husband Arlan; brothers, Carl, Harold and Ivan; sister-in-laws, Dorthey and Lillian Bottorff; and brother-in-law Bill Jameson. She is survived by her son Bruce Swanson and wife Juanita of Burlingame; daughter Janell Keltner and husband Kevin of Kansas City; grandsons Cody and Caleb Keltner, Gregory, Eugene and Mathew Geurink; granddaughter Kera Hicks; 14 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; sister Iva Lee Jameson; and sister-in-law RoAnne Brell and husband Bill. &nbsp;

Due to the COVID-19 virus, a private graveside service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery.&nbsp; A memorial service honoring Sarahmae will be held at a later date.

Sarahmae Swanson, 87 of Council Grove, Kansas, passed away April 6th, at Morris County Hospital.&nbsp; She was born July 26, 1932, in DeKalb County, Missouri, the daughter of Joseph and Della (Bromley) Bottorff. She married Arlan Swanson on May 3, 1959. They had two children: Bruce and Janell.Sarahmae was a member of Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church, Circle Club, UMW, building committee and the choir.&nbsp; She was also a member of the Otetiana Women’s Club, Daughters of the American Revolution and served on the Election Board. She worked for ASCS in Lyons, KS and in Council Grove, and at H&amp;R Block for 20 years, before retiring.She enjoyed attending her children and grandchildren’s events of all types, square dancing, boating and water skiing, traveling, games, pets, watching sports of all types, volunteering and donating her time to helping others, and being with her friends at bingo and silver sneakers. She was a primary caretaker for several family members.&nbsp; Sarahmae was a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend.&nbsp; She enjoyed cooking, and providing a warm, safe and caring home for her family, whom she loved dearly.&nbsp;Sarahmae was preceded in death by her parents; husband Arlan; brothers, Carl, Harold and Ivan; sister-in-laws, Dorthey and Lillian Bottorff; and brother-in-law Bill Jameson. She is survived by her son Bruce Swanson and wife Juanita of Burlingame; daughter Janell Keltner and husband Kevin of Kansas City; grandsons Cody and Caleb Keltner, Gregory, Eugene and Mathew Geurink; granddaughter Kera Hicks; 14 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; sister Iva Lee Jameson; and sister-in-law RoAnne Brell and husband Bill. &nbsp;Due to the COVID-19 virus, a private graveside service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery.&nbsp; A memorial service honoring Sarahmae will be held at a later date.

Sarahmae Swanson

Harriett Nadine Hill, 88, of Salina, KS, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving children on Sunday, April 5, 2020. Nadine’s life began on May 18, 1931, the daughter of Glen and Muriel (Nott) Stice in Herington, KS. She graduated from Herington High School in 1949.

Nadine worked as a bookkeeper at Continental Grain Co., a secretary at Herington High School, a sales clerk at JM McDonald Clothing store and Boelling Drug Store all in Herington. She also worked as a sales clerk at B &amp; J Drug Store in Concordia. Nadine enjoyed many hobbies including gardening, crafting as well as her love for cardinals, music and dancing. However, her biggest love was her children, grandchildren, their families, and her many friends. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, the Elks, Eastern Star and a lifetime member of the VFW auxiliary.

Her loving family includes her children, Dale (Rita) Hull of Herington, Kansas; Scott (Diane) Hull of Lincolnville, Kansas;&nbsp; Bruce (Diane) Hull of Lincoln, &nbsp;Nebraska; Lee Ann (Jerry) Peters of Gypsum, Kansas; Tina (Bob) Goff of Concordia, Kansas; and Phillip (Bobbie) Hill of Ord, Nebraska; Sister Carolyn Shank of Salina, Kansas; 20 Grandchildren and 15 Great-Grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Walter Hull (1971, husband Glen Hill (2017, her parents and two brothers, Crandall and Harold.

A graveside service and a celebration of life will be announced and held at a later date.

The family is requesting memorial contributions (in lieu of flowers) in her name to Kindred Hospice, the American Heart Association or the Leukemia and Lymphoma society in care of Yazel-Megli Funeral Home, 404 S. Broadway, Herington KS 67449.&nbsp;

Harriett Nadine Hill, 88, of Salina, KS, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving children on Sunday, April 5, 2020. Nadine’s life began on May 18, 1931, the daughter of Glen and Muriel (Nott) Stice in Herington, KS. She graduated from Herington High School in 1949.Nadine worked as a bookkeeper at Continental Grain Co., a secretary at Herington High School, a sales clerk at JM McDonald Clothing store and Boelling Drug Store all in Herington. She also worked as a sales clerk at B &amp; J Drug Store in Concordia. Nadine enjoyed many hobbies including gardening, crafting as well as her love for cardinals, music and dancing. However, her biggest love was her children, grandchildren, their families, and her many friends. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, the Elks, Eastern Star and a lifetime member of the VFW auxiliary.Her loving family includes her children, Dale (Rita) Hull of Herington, Kansas; Scott (Diane) Hull of Lincolnville, Kansas;&nbsp; Bruce (Diane) Hull of Lincoln, &nbsp;Nebraska; Lee Ann (Jerry) Peters of Gypsum, Kansas; Tina (Bob) Goff of Concordia, Kansas; and Phillip (Bobbie) Hill of Ord, Nebraska; Sister Carolyn Shank of Salina, Kansas; 20 Grandchildren and 15 Great-Grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her husband Walter Hull (1971, husband Glen Hill (2017, her parents and two brothers, Crandall and Harold.A graveside service and a celebration of life will be announced and held at a later date.The family is requesting memorial contributions (in lieu of flowers) in her name to Kindred Hospice, the American Heart Association or the Leukemia and Lymphoma society in care of Yazel-Megli Funeral Home, 404 S. Broadway, Herington KS 67449.&nbsp;

Harriett Nadine Hill



David Ray Sheaffer, 79, of Junction City died April 5, 2020 at Valley View Senior Life. No public service will take place due to the current environment surrounding the COVID-19. The family will have a private family visitation followed by a private Graveside service at Highland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions have been designated to the Junction City Junior Baseball Association and to the Junction City High School Baseball Team in c/o Johnson Cremations, Funerals &amp; Receptions, 203 N. Washington Street Junction City, KS. Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time.

David was born on Christmas Day 1940, Junction City, KS to William and Ruth (Weaver) Sheaffer. He attended schools in Junction City and graduated from Junction City High School in 1958.

Following graduation he was then employed by the Kansas Department of Transportation as an Engineering Technician and Surveyor, working on the construction of I-70 around Junction City. David retired from KDOT in 1994 and worked for Kaw Valley Engineering doing road and bridge inspections until 2009 and retired for the second time at age 69.

David met and married Marcine Ann Wunder March of 1959. They had two sons, Roger Alan and Kenneth "Kenny" Dean. Marcine preceded David in death October 14, 2019.

David was a big sports fan of the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas State Wildcats. For many years he was very active in the Junction City Little League baseball program where he coached young men for 14 years and competed in tournaments all over Kansas. He was given the Single Outstanding Coach award by the YMCA for his dedication of raising funds for the capital improvement of the YMCA Building.

He is survived by his two sons, Roger A. Sheaffer and Kenny D. Sheaffer both of Junction City, KS; two grandchildren, Ryan A. Sheaffer of Junction City, KS and Amanda (Dillon) Ruthstrom of Clay Center, KS; two great-grandchildren, Trey A. Sheaffer and Brooklynn M. Sheaffer; he is also survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Larry and Jackie Langvardt of Junction City, KS; by two brother-in-laws, Gene Wunder of Niland, CA and Wayne Bentley of Cedartown, GA; his sister-in-law, Eldora Wunder of Vermillion, SD and many nephews and nieces and great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Gloria May Bentley.



David Ray Sheaffer, 79, of Junction City died April 5, 2020 at Valley View Senior Life. No public service will take place due to the current environment surrounding the COVID-19. The family will have a private family visitation followed by a private Graveside service at Highland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions have been designated to the Junction City Junior Baseball Association and to the Junction City High School Baseball Team in c/o Johnson Cremations, Funerals &amp; Receptions, 203 N. Washington Street Junction City, KS. Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time.David was born on Christmas Day 1940, Junction City, KS to William and Ruth (Weaver) Sheaffer. He attended schools in Junction City and graduated from Junction City High School in 1958.Following graduation he was then employed by the Kansas Department of Transportation as an Engineering Technician and Surveyor, working on the construction of I-70 around Junction City. David retired from KDOT in 1994 and worked for Kaw Valley Engineering doing road and bridge inspections until 2009 and retired for the second time at age 69.David met and married Marcine Ann Wunder March of 1959. They had two sons, Roger Alan and Kenneth "Kenny" Dean. Marcine preceded David in death October 14, 2019.David was a big sports fan of the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas State Wildcats. For many years he was very active in the Junction City Little League baseball program where he coached young men for 14 years and competed in tournaments all over Kansas. He was given the Single Outstanding Coach award by the YMCA for his dedication of raising funds for the capital improvement of the YMCA Building.He is survived by his two sons, Roger A. Sheaffer and Kenny D. Sheaffer both of Junction City, KS; two grandchildren, Ryan A. Sheaffer of Junction City, KS and Amanda (Dillon) Ruthstrom of Clay Center, KS; two great-grandchildren, Trey A. Sheaffer and Brooklynn M. Sheaffer; he is also survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Larry and Jackie Langvardt of Junction City, KS; by two brother-in-laws, Gene Wunder of Niland, CA and Wayne Bentley of Cedartown, GA; his sister-in-law, Eldora Wunder of Vermillion, SD and many nephews and nieces and great-nieces and great-nephews.He was preceded in death by his sister, Gloria May Bentley.

David Ray Sheaffer



Wilma Roberta (Spangler) Beemer passed away at Azria Health Gretna in Gretna, NE on Saturday, March 28, 2020 at the age of 89.

Wilma was born December 4, 1930, in Detroit to George and Mae Spangler. She graduated from Chapman High School with the Class of 1949. She was married to Wayne Beemer on February 17, 1980. She had been a resident of Azria Health since 2013.

She is survived by four children and four stepchildren. Dennis Rector &amp; wife Trina; Larry Rector; Steve Rector &amp; wife Ruth; Debra Edwards; daughter-in-law Kristy Rector; Don Beemer &amp; wife Sally; Glenda Singleton &amp; husband Jim; Jan Beemer; Sharon Keenan &amp; husband Kelly and 14 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother, Norman Spangler of Carlton.

She was preceded in death by her husband Wayne; son Randall Rector; brothers Bruce and Paul Spangler; sisters Phyllis Lay and Marian Hottman.

Burial will be in Bethel Cemetery and a Celebration of Life for the family will be held at a later date.

Martin Becker Carlson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Memorials may be mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;



Wilma Roberta (Spangler) Beemer passed away at Azria Health Gretna in Gretna, NE on Saturday, March 28, 2020 at the age of 89.Wilma was born December 4, 1930, in Detroit to George and Mae Spangler. She graduated from Chapman High School with the Class of 1949. She was married to Wayne Beemer on February 17, 1980. She had been a resident of Azria Health since 2013.She is survived by four children and four stepchildren. Dennis Rector &amp; wife Trina; Larry Rector; Steve Rector &amp; wife Ruth; Debra Edwards; daughter-in-law Kristy Rector; Don Beemer &amp; wife Sally; Glenda Singleton &amp; husband Jim; Jan Beemer; Sharon Keenan &amp; husband Kelly and 14 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother, Norman Spangler of Carlton.She was preceded in death by her husband Wayne; son Randall Rector; brothers Bruce and Paul Spangler; sisters Phyllis Lay and Marian Hottman.Burial will be in Bethel Cemetery and a Celebration of Life for the family will be held at a later date.Martin Becker Carlson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Memorials may be mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;

Wilma Roberta (Spangler) Beemer



Jan Kruh, 93, a former president of the USD 383 Board of Education, a pioneer in distance learning for Kansas universities, and an accomplished community volunteer, died Tuesday at Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community.

She was born July 27, 1926, in Eureka, Kansas, where her grandparents came to Greenwood County as early settlers. Her paternal grandfather, George King Jackson, was an early developer of ranching, oil production, and business in Greenwood County. Her father, Elwin Jackson, a master auto mechanic, and her mother, Sidney Devier Jackson, a department store financial officer, raised her in El Dorado and Augusta, Kansas. In 1944, she graduated from Augusta High School, where she was a schoolmate of President Barack Obama’s grandmother. She attended Christian College (now Columbia College) in Columbia, Missouri, where she earned an associate of arts degree. She then enrolled at Washington University in St. Louis, where she earned a bachelor of arts in chemistry in 1948 and a master of arts in psychology in 1949. There, she met Robert F. Kruh in calculus class, and they were married in 1948.

After graduation, she worked in St. Louis as a high school science teacher and staff counselor at Washington University, where her husband earned a doctorate in chemistry. The couple moved to Greencastle, Indiana, where her husband was a professor of chemistry at DePauw University, and then to Fayetteville, Arkansas, where he joined the chemistry faculty at the University of Arkansas and later served as dean of arts and sciences. In Fayetteville, she worked as a public school psychologist and as a psychology instructor at the university.

In 1967, she and her family moved to Manhattan when her husband was appointed as dean of the graduate school at Kansas State University. Her commitment to public service culminated in her election to the USD383 Board of Education in 1972. She served as board president in 1974-75, spearheading significant financial improvements in the school system during her tenure.

In 1976, she continued her professional career as the director of Kansas’ educational Telecommunications Network (TELENET, predating the Internet and video networking. Based at K-State, she created an upscale audio network with 37 locations statewide that provided off-campus courses offered by the six Regents’ universities in Kansas. Under her direction, the state became a national leader in distance education. The network provided an easily accessible pathway for thousands of professionals to earn master’s degrees for professional advancement; it offered additional programs, including a high school enrichment series, funded by the National Science Foundation, that featured instruction by Nobel laureates and other noted authorities. She was a presenter at national distance-learning conferences, and she served as coordinator of the National Teleconferencing Peer Support Group. She retired in 1992.

She was a lifelong community volunteer, most avidly with the League of Women Voters, which she joined in 1944, three years before she was eligible to vote. She later served as LWV chapter president in Fayetteville and Manhattan. In retirement, she served as a policy advocate with Kansas AARP, working with utility and health-care issues; through legislative testimony, she helped defeat an effort to defund the Citizens Utility Ratepayer Board. In her AARP role, she also served on its State Legislative Committee, and she coordinated its lobbying efforts in Kansas’ then-Second Congressional District.

She was a longtime member of the Kansas Judicial Selection Panel for District 21, which placed Meryl Wilson, David Stutzman, and Sheila Hochhauser on the local bench. A lifelong Lutheran, she was a member of First Lutheran Church in Manhattan.

She is survived by her husband; a son, Lindsay Kruh, of Minneapolis, Minnesota; and a daughter, Nancy Kruh, and her spouse, Sarah Wilke, of Nashville, Tennessee.

The family requests memorial donations be made to the local chapter of the League of Women Voters through my.lwv.org/kansas/manhattanriley-county or by mail at P.O. Box 835, Manhattan, KS 66505. No service is planned at this time.

Jan Kruh, 93, a former president of the USD 383 Board of Education, a pioneer in distance learning for Kansas universities, and an accomplished community volunteer, died Tuesday at Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community.She was born July 27, 1926, in Eureka, Kansas, where her grandparents came to Greenwood County as early settlers. Her paternal grandfather, George King Jackson, was an early developer of ranching, oil production, and business in Greenwood County. Her father, Elwin Jackson, a master auto mechanic, and her mother, Sidney Devier Jackson, a department store financial officer, raised her in El Dorado and Augusta, Kansas. In 1944, she graduated from Augusta High School, where she was a schoolmate of President Barack Obama’s grandmother. She attended Christian College (now Columbia College) in Columbia, Missouri, where she earned an associate of arts degree. She then enrolled at Washington University in St. Louis, where she earned a bachelor of arts in chemistry in 1948 and a master of arts in psychology in 1949. There, she met Robert F. Kruh in calculus class, and they were married in 1948.After graduation, she worked in St. Louis as a high school science teacher and staff counselor at Washington University, where her husband earned a doctorate in chemistry. The couple moved to Greencastle, Indiana, where her husband was a professor of chemistry at DePauw University, and then to Fayetteville, Arkansas, where he joined the chemistry faculty at the University of Arkansas and later served as dean of arts and sciences. In Fayetteville, she worked as a public school psychologist and as a psychology instructor at the university.In 1967, she and her family moved to Manhattan when her husband was appointed as dean of the graduate school at Kansas State University. Her commitment to public service culminated in her election to the USD383 Board of Education in 1972. She served as board president in 1974-75, spearheading significant financial improvements in the school system during her tenure.In 1976, she continued her professional career as the director of Kansas’ educational Telecommunications Network (TELENET, predating the Internet and video networking. Based at K-State, she created an upscale audio network with 37 locations statewide that provided off-campus courses offered by the six Regents’ universities in Kansas. Under her direction, the state became a national leader in distance education. The network provided an easily accessible pathway for thousands of professionals to earn master’s degrees for professional advancement; it offered additional programs, including a high school enrichment series, funded by the National Science Foundation, that featured instruction by Nobel laureates and other noted authorities. She was a presenter at national distance-learning conferences, and she served as coordinator of the National Teleconferencing Peer Support Group. She retired in 1992.She was a lifelong community volunteer, most avidly with the League of Women Voters, which she joined in 1944, three years before she was eligible to vote. She later served as LWV chapter president in Fayetteville and Manhattan. In retirement, she served as a policy advocate with Kansas AARP, working with utility and health-care issues; through legislative testimony, she helped defeat an effort to defund the Citizens Utility Ratepayer Board. In her AARP role, she also served on its State Legislative Committee, and she coordinated its lobbying efforts in Kansas’ then-Second Congressional District.She was a longtime member of the Kansas Judicial Selection Panel for District 21, which placed Meryl Wilson, David Stutzman, and Sheila Hochhauser on the local bench. A lifelong Lutheran, she was a member of First Lutheran Church in Manhattan.She is survived by her husband; a son, Lindsay Kruh, of Minneapolis, Minnesota; and a daughter, Nancy Kruh, and her spouse, Sarah Wilke, of Nashville, Tennessee.The family requests memorial donations be made to the local chapter of the League of Women Voters through my.lwv.org/kansas/manhattanriley-county or by mail at P.O. Box 835, Manhattan, KS 66505. No service is planned at this time.

Jan Kruh

Eileen’s life began on July 26, 1923, the daughter of Charles and Erie (Napier) Collinsworth in Big Sandy, West Virginia. She graduated from Mullens High Class of 1940, in Mullens, West Virginia. She married Ordie Jake Sigmon “Bub” on September 5, 1941 in Pineville, West Virginia. Eileen was a part-owner in a ladies clothing boutique “Polka Dot Clothing” in Beckley. She moved to Burns, Kansas in 2000, and attended the Burns United Methodist, Burns Countryside Church and then Central Community Church upon moving to Wichita. She loved ceramics, sewing, flower gardening, reading her Bible and watching Charles Stanley on television.

Her loving family includes her son and his wife, Ordie “Sonny” (Carolyn) Sigmon of Beckley, West Virginia; daughter and her husband, Sherry and Joe Vestring of Wichita; daughter, Brenda Burwell of Newton, Kansas; grandchildren, Alisa (Krassi) Damianov of Wichita, Bryan (Rachael) Tarr of Fort Worth, Texas, Sunny Sue Sigmon and Jacob Sigmon all of Beckley, West Virginia; great-grandchildren, Aiden, Andrew, David, Jeremy and Elainey.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband in 1977; son, Gene Sigmon; grandson, Walter E. Arndt III, and ten siblings. Eileen passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 4, 2020, at the age of 96 years old.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, April 9, at 2:00 p.m. in the Burns Cemetery in Burns, Kansas with Chaplain Tal Tittsworth with Good Shepherd Hospice officiating.

Eileen’s life began on July 26, 1923, the daughter of Charles and Erie (Napier) Collinsworth in Big Sandy, West Virginia. She graduated from Mullens High Class of 1940, in Mullens, West Virginia. She married Ordie Jake Sigmon “Bub” on September 5, 1941 in Pineville, West Virginia. Eileen was a part-owner in a ladies clothing boutique “Polka Dot Clothing” in Beckley. She moved to Burns, Kansas in 2000, and attended the Burns United Methodist, Burns Countryside Church and then Central Community Church upon moving to Wichita. She loved ceramics, sewing, flower gardening, reading her Bible and watching Charles Stanley on television.Her loving family includes her son and his wife, Ordie “Sonny” (Carolyn) Sigmon of Beckley, West Virginia; daughter and her husband, Sherry and Joe Vestring of Wichita; daughter, Brenda Burwell of Newton, Kansas; grandchildren, Alisa (Krassi) Damianov of Wichita, Bryan (Rachael) Tarr of Fort Worth, Texas, Sunny Sue Sigmon and Jacob Sigmon all of Beckley, West Virginia; great-grandchildren, Aiden, Andrew, David, Jeremy and Elainey.She was preceded in death by her parents, husband in 1977; son, Gene Sigmon; grandson, Walter E. Arndt III, and ten siblings. Eileen passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 4, 2020, at the age of 96 years old.Graveside services will be held Thursday, April 9, at 2:00 p.m. in the Burns Cemetery in Burns, Kansas with Chaplain Tal Tittsworth with Good Shepherd Hospice officiating.

Eileen Marie (Collinsworth) Sigmon -  July 26, 1923-April 4, 2020 (age 96)



Marcel Antoine Nader, 36, of Junction City, KS, formerly of Marina, California, left his earthly vessel March 25, 2020.&nbsp; A private burial at Highland Cemetery of Junction City is to take place.&nbsp; Johnson Funeral Home of Junction City, Kansas is assisting the family.

He was born on April 4, 1983, in Beirut, Lebanon to Antoine and Nada (Chouairy) Nader and was then registered in his father’s village of Kobayet.

Marcel grew up in Bourj Hamoud, Beirut, Lebanon. After his high school graduation, he continued his education getting a degree in MIS at CIT 2004, then served in the Lebanese Army from 2004-2005.

Marcel married Angie on October 12, 2005 in Nicosia, Cyprus. He accepted her son, River, as his own and they began their life as a family in Dora, Beirut, Lebanon.

Marcel was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2006 on his 23rd birthday and began treatment.

His family left Lebanon July 22 2006 during the war in Lebanon and immigrated as a refugee to San Jose, California. He continued his medical treatments at Stanford Cancer Center. Marcel endured multiple chemotherapy and radiation treatments and 2 Bone Marrow transplants. After exhausting all medical options, he was declared untreatable, but then miraculously recovered.

Marcel worked in the locksmithing industry throughout his health issues. He moved his family to Marina, California and purchased the local locksmith shop, renaming it Techno Lock Marina. His local small business supported its community by providing 10 volunteer hours a week to local nonprofits. The volunteer work included a seat on the board of the Marina Chamber of Commerce as well as assisting local youth through the Restorative Justice Partners, Inc.

He proudly became a citizen of the United States of America on November 15th 2018.

Marcel reluctantly closed his locksmith shop at the recommendation of his cardiologist when he was diagnosed with multiple health issues due to the prior treatments he received. A 6-month personal sabbatical allowed him to spend time with family and friends in his birth country of Lebanon, celebrate his cousin Mirna’s engagement, and take a trip to Egypt. His wife and son supported this decision fully knowing, that due to his health issues, it may be the last opportunity he’d have to travel. Upon returning to USA, Marcel returned to California to complete medical treatments. One month later he returned to his family to begin a much slower, quieter life in Junction City Kansas.

Marcel was a family man who always put his family’s needs ahead of his own. When his family had a desire, he worked miracles for them. He took his family on yearly vacations, camping trips, and to Disneyland. As a family they explored most of the north and southwestern states through road trips. Additionally, he provided his family multiple solo vacations such as trips to Hawaii and the Philippines. He also sent his wife on multiple trips to visit out of state relatives. Even though Marcel would have loved of join in these vacations, he was always selflessly working to provide his family with a good life. He was a perfect example of a loving husband and father.

Marcel spent his final days trout fishing at Moon Lake on Fort Riley with his son, surprising his wife with fresh coffee each morning, playing League of Legends, and binge watching “Supernatural”, “Vikings”, and “NCIS”.

He was known for his love of the outdoors and traveling, but most of all his love for his very large family and friends that expand continents.

Marcel is survived by his loving family: wife Angie Nader of Junction City, KS formerly of Marina, CA; son River and wife Hazylle of Junction City, KS; grandson Bodhi River; his parents Antoine and Nada (Chouairy) Nader of Bourj Hamoud, Beirut, Lebanon; brothers, Joseph and wife Silvana Nader, Dany Nader, Niece Chloe and a host of loving family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, his beloved brother Elie, and beloved cousin Nicholas.

Marcel Antoine Nader, 36, of Junction City, KS, formerly of Marina, California, left his earthly vessel March 25, 2020.&nbsp; A private burial at Highland Cemetery of Junction City is to take place.&nbsp; Johnson Funeral Home of Junction City, Kansas is assisting the family.He was born on April 4, 1983, in Beirut, Lebanon to Antoine and Nada (Chouairy) Nader and was then registered in his father’s village of Kobayet.Marcel grew up in Bourj Hamoud, Beirut, Lebanon. After his high school graduation, he continued his education getting a degree in MIS at CIT 2004, then served in the Lebanese Army from 2004-2005.Marcel married Angie on October 12, 2005 in Nicosia, Cyprus. He accepted her son, River, as his own and they began their life as a family in Dora, Beirut, Lebanon.Marcel was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2006 on his 23rd birthday and began treatment.His family left Lebanon July 22 2006 during the war in Lebanon and immigrated as a refugee to San Jose, California. He continued his medical treatments at Stanford Cancer Center. Marcel endured multiple chemotherapy and radiation treatments and 2 Bone Marrow transplants. After exhausting all medical options, he was declared untreatable, but then miraculously recovered.Marcel worked in the locksmithing industry throughout his health issues. He moved his family to Marina, California and purchased the local locksmith shop, renaming it Techno Lock Marina. His local small business supported its community by providing 10 volunteer hours a week to local nonprofits. The volunteer work included a seat on the board of the Marina Chamber of Commerce as well as assisting local youth through the Restorative Justice Partners, Inc.He proudly became a citizen of the United States of America on November 15th 2018.Marcel reluctantly closed his locksmith shop at the recommendation of his cardiologist when he was diagnosed with multiple health issues due to the prior treatments he received. A 6-month personal sabbatical allowed him to spend time with family and friends in his birth country of Lebanon, celebrate his cousin Mirna’s engagement, and take a trip to Egypt. His wife and son supported this decision fully knowing, that due to his health issues, it may be the last opportunity he’d have to travel. Upon returning to USA, Marcel returned to California to complete medical treatments. One month later he returned to his family to begin a much slower, quieter life in Junction City Kansas.Marcel was a family man who always put his family’s needs ahead of his own. When his family had a desire, he worked miracles for them. He took his family on yearly vacations, camping trips, and to Disneyland. As a family they explored most of the north and southwestern states through road trips. Additionally, he provided his family multiple solo vacations such as trips to Hawaii and the Philippines. He also sent his wife on multiple trips to visit out of state relatives. Even though Marcel would have loved of join in these vacations, he was always selflessly working to provide his family with a good life. He was a perfect example of a loving husband and father.Marcel spent his final days trout fishing at Moon Lake on Fort Riley with his son, surprising his wife with fresh coffee each morning, playing League of Legends, and binge watching “Supernatural”, “Vikings”, and “NCIS”.He was known for his love of the outdoors and traveling, but most of all his love for his very large family and friends that expand continents.He will be dearly missed.Marcel is survived by his loving family: wife Angie Nader of Junction City, KS formerly of Marina, CA; son River and wife Hazylle of Junction City, KS; grandson Bodhi River; his parents Antoine and Nada (Chouairy) Nader of Bourj Hamoud, Beirut, Lebanon; brothers, Joseph and wife Silvana Nader, Dany Nader, Niece Chloe and a host of loving family and friends.He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, his beloved brother Elie, and beloved cousin Nicholas.

Marcel Antoine Nader



Karly Rose Werry, 27, of Manhattan, died Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at Stormont-Vail Healthcare in Topeka. Karly was born January 27, 1993 in Denver, Colorado, the daughter of Kerry and Jada (Hamilton) O'Bryan.

Karly attended school in Wakefield and graduated from Wakefield High School. She later attended Cosmetology School in Manhattan. She was a hairdresser with Paul Mitchell Salons in Junction City, and later in Manhattan.

Karly is survived by her son, Adrian Werry; a daughter, Kora Werry, her father, Kerry O'Bryan; her mother, Jada O'Bryan; a brother, Devin O'Bryan; a sister Gillian O'Bryan; and her grandmother, Jerita O'Bryan. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Lonnie O'Bryan.

No services are scheduled at this time, as the family will scatter Karly's ashes in the mountains of Colorado later in the summer.

Karly Rose Werry, 27, of Manhattan, died Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at Stormont-Vail Healthcare in Topeka. Karly was born January 27, 1993 in Denver, Colorado, the daughter of Kerry and Jada (Hamilton) O'Bryan.Karly attended school in Wakefield and graduated from Wakefield High School. She later attended Cosmetology School in Manhattan. She was a hairdresser with Paul Mitchell Salons in Junction City, and later in Manhattan.Karly is survived by her son, Adrian Werry; a daughter, Kora Werry, her father, Kerry O'Bryan; her mother, Jada O'Bryan; a brother, Devin O'Bryan; a sister Gillian O'Bryan; and her grandmother, Jerita O'Bryan. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Lonnie O'Bryan.It was Karly's wish to be cremated.No services are scheduled at this time, as the family will scatter Karly's ashes in the mountains of Colorado later in the summer.

Karly Rose Werry



Scott Lloyd Athorp, 38, died Sunday, March 29, 2020, at his home in Milford, KS. No public service will take place due to the current environment surrounding the COVID-19. Immediate burial will take place at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery. The family will have a private family visitation. Flowers for the family may be sent to Johnson Cremations, Funeral &amp; Receptions 203 N. Washington Street Junction City, KS. Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time.

Scott was born February 12, 1982, in Sheboygan, WI the son of Lloyd A. and Beverly Jane (Guidinger) Athorp.

Scott served in the United States Army. He retired from the Army as a SFC in 2014. After his retirement, he worked various contract positions. He loved his family very much and his little boy Hunter meant a lot to him. He was kind, loving and an amazing husband. He married Carolyn Alforque September 18, 2010, in Colorado Springs, CO. He took great pride in providing well for his wife and son. His family always came first no matter what. He was always prepared for situations such as COVID-19. He loved to fish, hunt, camp, BBQ, shoot his guns, drink a beer, take a shot but most of all be there for his family. He was a hard worker and always made sure that his family would never fall behind in anything. Everyone that knew Scott had some type of unique memory that made him stand out from others.

Parents: Lloyd and Maureen Athorp (stepmother)

Brother: Todd and Stephanie Schuh- Athorp (Tierney)

Brother: Kurt and Lesa Athorp (Kira &amp; Ava)

Sister: Lana and Preston Sykes (Baby Sykes)

Scott Lloyd Athorp, 38, died Sunday, March 29, 2020, at his home in Milford, KS. No public service will take place due to the current environment surrounding the COVID-19. Immediate burial will take place at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery. The family will have a private family visitation. Flowers for the family may be sent to Johnson Cremations, Funeral &amp; Receptions 203 N. Washington Street Junction City, KS. Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time.Scott was born February 12, 1982, in Sheboygan, WI the son of Lloyd A. and Beverly Jane (Guidinger) Athorp.Scott served in the United States Army. He retired from the Army as a SFC in 2014. After his retirement, he worked various contract positions. He loved his family very much and his little boy Hunter meant a lot to him. He was kind, loving and an amazing husband. He married Carolyn Alforque September 18, 2010, in Colorado Springs, CO. He took great pride in providing well for his wife and son. His family always came first no matter what. He was always prepared for situations such as COVID-19. He loved to fish, hunt, camp, BBQ, shoot his guns, drink a beer, take a shot but most of all be there for his family. He was a hard worker and always made sure that his family would never fall behind in anything. Everyone that knew Scott had some type of unique memory that made him stand out from others.Survivors include:Spouse: Carolyn A. AthorpChild: Hunter I. Athorp (son)Parents: Lloyd and Maureen Athorp (stepmother)Beverly Athorp (mother-deceased)Brother: Todd and Stephanie Schuh- Athorp (Tierney)Sister: Lisa AthorpBrother: Kurt and Lesa Athorp (Kira &amp; Ava)Sister: Lana and Preston Sykes (Baby Sykes)

Scott Lloyd Athorp



Teresa M. Jaime, 63, of Junction City, KS, passed away on March 30, 2020. Cremation has taken place. Inurnment will be held at a later date at the Rainy Butte Cemetery, South of New England, North Dakota. Johnson Funeral Home of Junction City, Kansas is assisting the family.

She was born on December 1, 1956, in Fort Sill, Oklahoma Maurice and Janet (Hattendorf) McLeod. After she graduated from Junction City High School, she was employed in various jobs. She later joined the United States Air Force and proudly served until her retirement.

Teresa was known for her love of animals and her giving nature.

She lived in Junction City Kansas where she ran a hobby farm after the passing of her husband.

Teresa is survived by her loving family: daughter, Traci (Jim) Hauck of ND; son, Arthur W. (Deserae) Flaaen Jr. of SD; and a host of loving family, pets, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Arthur Flaaen Sr.



Teresa M. Jaime, 63, of Junction City, KS, passed away on March 30, 2020. Cremation has taken place. Inurnment will be held at a later date at the Rainy Butte Cemetery, South of New England, North Dakota. Johnson Funeral Home of Junction City, Kansas is assisting the family.She was born on December 1, 1956, in Fort Sill, Oklahoma Maurice and Janet (Hattendorf) McLeod. After she graduated from Junction City High School, she was employed in various jobs. She later joined the United States Air Force and proudly served until her retirement.Teresa was known for her love of animals and her giving nature.She lived in Junction City Kansas where she ran a hobby farm after the passing of her husband.Teresa is survived by her loving family: daughter, Traci (Jim) Hauck of ND; son, Arthur W. (Deserae) Flaaen Jr. of SD; and a host of loving family, pets, and friends.She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Arthur Flaaen Sr.

Teresa M. Jaime

Mary H. Koehler, 62, of Junction City, died Saturday, March 28, 2020 at Stormont-Vail Healthcare in Topeka. Mary was born April 21, 1957 in Emporia, the daughter of Pedro and Elvira (Cisneros) Lira.

Mary grew up in Osage City, and graduated from Osage City High School.

She worked in retail sales in several businesses at places where her husband was stationed while he served in the military.

Mary married James D. "Jim" Koehler on December 13, 1975 in Osage City. Jim survives of the home. Other survivors include: a son, James P. Koehler, Frankfort, Kentucky; 2 daughters, Samantha Koehler, Ludlow, Kentucky, and Casie Burns and her husband Michael, Ft. Riley; her father, Pedro Lira, Ft. Riley; 2 brothers, Mark Lira, Topeka, and Pete Lira, Scottsdale, Arizona; 3 sisters, Rita Ford and her husband Rick, Osage City, Chello Marshall, Overland Park, and Angela Swisher, Ft. Riley; and 7 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by mother, Elvira Lira.

Cremation is planned, and services will be scheduled at a later date.

Mary H. Koehler, 62, of Junction City, died Saturday, March 28, 2020 at Stormont-Vail Healthcare in Topeka. Mary was born April 21, 1957 in Emporia, the daughter of Pedro and Elvira (Cisneros) Lira.Mary grew up in Osage City, and graduated from Osage City High School.She worked in retail sales in several businesses at places where her husband was stationed while he served in the military.Mary married James D. "Jim" Koehler on December 13, 1975 in Osage City. Jim survives of the home. Other survivors include: a son, James P. Koehler, Frankfort, Kentucky; 2 daughters, Samantha Koehler, Ludlow, Kentucky, and Casie Burns and her husband Michael, Ft. Riley; her father, Pedro Lira, Ft. Riley; 2 brothers, Mark Lira, Topeka, and Pete Lira, Scottsdale, Arizona; 3 sisters, Rita Ford and her husband Rick, Osage City, Chello Marshall, Overland Park, and Angela Swisher, Ft. Riley; and 7 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by mother, Elvira Lira.Cremation is planned, and services will be scheduled at a later date.

Mary H. Koehler

Clifford Ray “C.R.” Worthing, 68, of Wamego, KS, passed away at his home on Friday, April 3, 2020.

On April 13, 1951, C.R. was born in Westmoreland, KS to Kenneth Ray and Fern Louise (Julien) Worthing. C.R. attended Wamego schools, graduating from Wamego High School in 1969. In 1978, he took over the local Amoco until moving to the current location of C.R.’s Tire and Muffler in 1985. He owned and operated it until retiring in 2018. On January 1, 1981, he married Cynthia “Cindy” Ann Eberhart.&nbsp;

&nbsp;C.R. was a member of the Wamego United Methodist Church, Wamego Country Club, Kansas Tire Dealers and Oil Marketers Association, and the Wamego Chamber of Commerce which he was awarded the “Citizen of the Year” in 1996.. He loved cars and could work on anything with 4 wheels. He enjoyed taking road trips both near and far. Driving through his neighborhood, you always noticed how well kept and manicured his lawn was. C.R. enjoyed his work and made many friendships through his work and truly caring for people.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy Eberhart Worthing of Wamego; his mother, Fern Worthing of Wamego; a daughter, Tambria Pfannenstiel (Mark) of Park City, KS; his sister, Linda Worthing Cottrell of Wamego; a brother, Gordon Worthing (Kim) of Lyndon, KS; 2 grandchildren, Gavin and Chloe McGee; 2 step-grandchildren, Trent and Taylor Pfannenstiel; 4 nieces and 2 nephews. His father preceded him in death in 2003.

A private chapel service will be held for the family on Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego.&nbsp; Burial will follow in Belvue Cemetery.&nbsp; Friends may call at the Stewart Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 7th&nbsp;from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.&nbsp; A Celebration of C.R.’s Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family has suggested a memorial to C.R. and Cindy Worthing Vocational Scholarship Fund- c/o Wamego Community Foundation and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS&nbsp; 66547.

Clifford Ray “C.R.” Worthing, 68, of Wamego, KS, passed away at his home on Friday, April 3, 2020.On April 13, 1951, C.R. was born in Westmoreland, KS to Kenneth Ray and Fern Louise (Julien) Worthing. C.R. attended Wamego schools, graduating from Wamego High School in 1969. In 1978, he took over the local Amoco until moving to the current location of C.R.’s Tire and Muffler in 1985. He owned and operated it until retiring in 2018. On January 1, 1981, he married Cynthia “Cindy” Ann Eberhart.&nbsp;&nbsp;C.R. was a member of the Wamego United Methodist Church, Wamego Country Club, Kansas Tire Dealers and Oil Marketers Association, and the Wamego Chamber of Commerce which he was awarded the “Citizen of the Year” in 1996.. He loved cars and could work on anything with 4 wheels. He enjoyed taking road trips both near and far. Driving through his neighborhood, you always noticed how well kept and manicured his lawn was. C.R. enjoyed his work and made many friendships through his work and truly caring for people.He is survived by his wife, Cindy Eberhart Worthing of Wamego; his mother, Fern Worthing of Wamego; a daughter, Tambria Pfannenstiel (Mark) of Park City, KS; his sister, Linda Worthing Cottrell of Wamego; a brother, Gordon Worthing (Kim) of Lyndon, KS; 2 grandchildren, Gavin and Chloe McGee; 2 step-grandchildren, Trent and Taylor Pfannenstiel; 4 nieces and 2 nephews. His father preceded him in death in 2003.A private chapel service will be held for the family on Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego.&nbsp; Burial will follow in Belvue Cemetery.&nbsp; Friends may call at the Stewart Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 7th&nbsp;from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.&nbsp; A Celebration of C.R.’s Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family has suggested a memorial to C.R. and Cindy Worthing Vocational Scholarship Fund- c/o Wamego Community Foundation and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS&nbsp; 66547.

Clifford Ray “C.R.” Worthing



Michael L. Beier, age 65, died on Friday April 3, 2020 at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital, Manhattan, Kansas.

He was born on November 18, 1954 in Grand Island, NE the son of Weldon R. &amp; Marie C. (Schlick) Beier.

Memorial Services will be at a later date.



Michael L. Beier, age 65, died on Friday April 3, 2020 at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital, Manhattan, Kansas.He was born on November 18, 1954 in Grand Island, NE the son of Weldon R. &amp; Marie C. (Schlick) Beier.Memorial Services will be at a later date.

Michael L. Beier



Linda Jo Miller, age 74, died on Friday April 3, 2020 at her residence.

She was born on April 24, 1945 in Cedar Vale, Kansas the daughter of B.J. and JoAnn (Anderson) Snodgrass.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Tuttle Creek Lake Association for the Youth Fishing Clinic and left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.



Linda Jo Miller, age 74, died on Friday April 3, 2020 at her residence.She was born on April 24, 1945 in Cedar Vale, Kansas the daughter of B.J. and JoAnn (Anderson) Snodgrass.Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at a later date.Memorial contributions may be made to the Tuttle Creek Lake Association for the Youth Fishing Clinic and left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Linda Jo Miller



Barbara Anne Harlan died April 2 after a long battle with a Parkinson’s like illness.

She was born March 18, 1938, in Pottawatomie County to Vernon and Wanetta (Schleif) Smith.

A graduate of St. George High School, Barbara lived in Manhattan and Topeka before moving to Houston in 1967.

She worked as an administrative assistant at private and public schools in Houston before retiring in 2004. After retirement, she worked two hurricane seasons for the Federal Emergency Management Agency in Denton, Texas. She returned to Manhattan in December 2013.

Barbara was a gifted pianist, an avid dancer and a ruthless Scrabble player.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her oldest brother, James Smith of Manhattan.

She is survived by her four children: Christi Harlan of Washington, D.C.; Brenda O’Shea of Munster, Ind.; Robert Harlan of Austin, Texas; and Jennifer Harlan of Manhattan, as well as their father, Loyd W. Harlan of Houston.

She is also survived by her sister, Aileen, and husband Lawrence Garvin of Columbia, Mo.; her brother, Delbert, and wife Donna Smith of Manhattan; as well as sister-in-law Frances Smith, also of Manhattan; 13 grandchildren and one great granddaughter.

A celebration of her life will be scheduled in the months ahead. Memorial gifts can be made to the Good Samaritan Fund at Meadowlark Hills, 2121 Meadowlark Road, Manhattan KS 66502.



Barbara Anne Harlan died April 2 after a long battle with a Parkinson’s like illness.She was born March 18, 1938, in Pottawatomie County to Vernon and Wanetta (Schleif) Smith.A graduate of St. George High School, Barbara lived in Manhattan and Topeka before moving to Houston in 1967.She worked as an administrative assistant at private and public schools in Houston before retiring in 2004. After retirement, she worked two hurricane seasons for the Federal Emergency Management Agency in Denton, Texas. She returned to Manhattan in December 2013.Barbara was a gifted pianist, an avid dancer and a ruthless Scrabble player.She was preceded in death by her parents and her oldest brother, James Smith of Manhattan.She is survived by her four children: Christi Harlan of Washington, D.C.; Brenda O’Shea of Munster, Ind.; Robert Harlan of Austin, Texas; and Jennifer Harlan of Manhattan, as well as their father, Loyd W. Harlan of Houston.She is also survived by her sister, Aileen, and husband Lawrence Garvin of Columbia, Mo.; her brother, Delbert, and wife Donna Smith of Manhattan; as well as sister-in-law Frances Smith, also of Manhattan; 13 grandchildren and one great granddaughter.A celebration of her life will be scheduled in the months ahead. Memorial gifts can be made to the Good Samaritan Fund at Meadowlark Hills, 2121 Meadowlark Road, Manhattan KS 66502.

Barbara Anne Harlan



Darlene F. Siegle, age 86, of Manhattan, KS died April 2, 2020, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan following a brief illness.

She was born November 6, 1933, in Leonardville, KS, the daughter of LeRoy A. and Dorothy L. (Nordstrom) Peterson. Darlene spent her early life on her parents’ farm. She graduated from Manhattan High School.

Darlene was married to Malcolm “Bud” L. Siegle on October 9, 1955, in Manhattan. He preceded her in death on May 6, 2007.

Darlene was known to thousands of children and their families having worked as the Secretary at Northview Grade School for 21 years. During that same time, Darlene began decorating cakes as a hobby, which evolved into a small, home-based wedding cake business. Many people will remember her for beautifully decorated and delicious homemade cakes. Later, she worked for Blue Water Services.

She was a lifetime member of the First Lutheran Church in Manhattan. Darlene was a faithful volunteer for the church, having just “retired” from counting offering money for 36 years. She also volunteered many years for the 5:30 a.m. shift in the surgery waiting room at Via Christi/Ascension Hospital.

Darlene enjoyed working in her yard, tending to flowers, and feeding the birds. She took a special interest in working jigsaw puzzles and playing word games on her iPad.

She is survived by her three daughters: Jelane Cook (John) of Manhattan, Sandy Pearson (Jeff) of Larkspur, CA, and Sheryl Siegle (Vickey Grochowski) of Manhattan; three grandchildren: Erin Overturf, Andrew Cook (Andrea, and Sarah Cook (Sam); two great grandchildren: Austyn and Peyton Overturf; and her special sweetheart for the last eight years, John Yadon. Darlene also had close relationships with a large extended family and several friends.

Darlene was also preceded in death by her parents, two brothers: DeWayne “Pete” and Virgil “Pee Wee” Peterson, and her grandson-in-law, Wes Overturf.

Family and friends are invited to come by the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home on Thursday, April 9th, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, to pay their respects.

Private family graveside services will be at Sunrise Cemetery with Reverend Elizabeth Kocher officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to either the First Lutheran Church or the Good Shepherd Hospice House. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.



Darlene F. Siegle, age 86, of Manhattan, KS died April 2, 2020, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan following a brief illness.She was born November 6, 1933, in Leonardville, KS, the daughter of LeRoy A. and Dorothy L. (Nordstrom) Peterson. Darlene spent her early life on her parents’ farm. She graduated from Manhattan High School.Darlene was married to Malcolm “Bud” L. Siegle on October 9, 1955, in Manhattan. He preceded her in death on May 6, 2007.Darlene was known to thousands of children and their families having worked as the Secretary at Northview Grade School for 21 years. During that same time, Darlene began decorating cakes as a hobby, which evolved into a small, home-based wedding cake business. Many people will remember her for beautifully decorated and delicious homemade cakes. Later, she worked for Blue Water Services.She was a lifetime member of the First Lutheran Church in Manhattan. Darlene was a faithful volunteer for the church, having just “retired” from counting offering money for 36 years. She also volunteered many years for the 5:30 a.m. shift in the surgery waiting room at Via Christi/Ascension Hospital.Darlene enjoyed working in her yard, tending to flowers, and feeding the birds. She took a special interest in working jigsaw puzzles and playing word games on her iPad.She is survived by her three daughters: Jelane Cook (John) of Manhattan, Sandy Pearson (Jeff) of Larkspur, CA, and Sheryl Siegle (Vickey Grochowski) of Manhattan; three grandchildren: Erin Overturf, Andrew Cook (Andrea, and Sarah Cook (Sam); two great grandchildren: Austyn and Peyton Overturf; and her special sweetheart for the last eight years, John Yadon. Darlene also had close relationships with a large extended family and several friends.Darlene was also preceded in death by her parents, two brothers: DeWayne “Pete” and Virgil “Pee Wee” Peterson, and her grandson-in-law, Wes Overturf.Family and friends are invited to come by the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home on Thursday, April 9th, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, to pay their respects.Private family graveside services will be at Sunrise Cemetery with Reverend Elizabeth Kocher officiating.Memorial contributions may be made to either the First Lutheran Church or the Good Shepherd Hospice House. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Darlene F. Siegle



John D. Spangler, 83, of Manhattan, KS, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Memorials in his name may be made to either the Manhattan Humane Society, the First United Methodist Church or the Boy Scouts.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.



John D. Spangler, 83, of Manhattan, KS, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2020. Memorials in his name may be made to either the Manhattan Humane Society, the First United Methodist Church or the Boy Scouts.A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

John D. Spangler



Azer Lee Cunningham, 85 of Manhattan, KS, formerly of Kansas City, KS, passed away on April 2, 2020.

Azer was born in Morrilton, Arkansas on July 10, 1934, to Rosa Byrd and HermanGarrett.&nbsp; She grew up in Morrilton, Arkansas and attended the local schools. She graduated from Morrilton High School in 1952. She came to Manhattan in 1979 from Kansas City, Kansas where she lived for 30 years. She married Lee Cunningham on November 21, 1955, and they were divorced in July 1981.

Azer came to faith in Christ at the age of 12. She was a long-standing member of Living Word Church. Azer was so loving in all her ways. So willing to help, and quick to praise.&nbsp; Warm and affectionate in heart and mind, beautiful memories she has left behind. Azer enjoyed being a mother, a grandmother, a great-grandmother, and a friend. Azer enjoyed talking, “Just like Jeff does.” She had an “otherness attitude” because she was a lover of people.

Azer is survived by her two daughters, Renajarett (Ahmad) Abdulrahman, of Fresno, TX; Wandean (Karl) Rivers, of Manhattan, her son, Stevonia (Annette) Cunningham, of Bellvue, NE; 3 sisters, Margaret Jean, Clara, Margrette; 3 brothers, Robert, Claude and Jerry; 8 grandchildren, Kamilah Cunningham, Sherina Cunningham, Natasha Cunningham-Husband, Harrison (Christopher) Rivers, Lee (Q. Olivia) Rivers, James (Megan) Rivers, Jeffery Harding, and Jonathan (Ashley) Rivers and 9 great-grandchildren, Jazmine Cunningham, Jina' Cunningham, Aleecya Husband, Landon Rivers, Josslyn Rivers, Reese Rivers, Nolan Rivers, Savannah Rivers, and Baby Rivers due this fall.

She is preceded in death by her parents. Her sisters, Minnie Lee, Evelyn, Martha, Claudia, and brothers, William, Charles and Herman Jr.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date due to the state's new mandates about gatherings. The family offers its apologies and wishes the services could be public.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to help with expenses or to the Living Word Church or the Manhattan Public Library Technology Training Center.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home and Cremation.



Azer Lee Cunningham, 85 of Manhattan, KS, formerly of Kansas City, KS, passed away on April 2, 2020.Azer was born in Morrilton, Arkansas on July 10, 1934, to Rosa Byrd and HermanGarrett.&nbsp; She grew up in Morrilton, Arkansas and attended the local schools. She graduated from Morrilton High School in 1952. She came to Manhattan in 1979 from Kansas City, Kansas where she lived for 30 years. She married Lee Cunningham on November 21, 1955, and they were divorced in July 1981.Azer came to faith in Christ at the age of 12. She was a long-standing member of Living Word Church. Azer was so loving in all her ways. So willing to help, and quick to praise.&nbsp; Warm and affectionate in heart and mind, beautiful memories she has left behind. Azer enjoyed being a mother, a grandmother, a great-grandmother, and a friend. Azer enjoyed talking, “Just like Jeff does.” She had an “otherness attitude” because she was a lover of people.Azer is survived by her two daughters, Renajarett (Ahmad) Abdulrahman, of Fresno, TX; Wandean (Karl) Rivers, of Manhattan, her son, Stevonia (Annette) Cunningham, of Bellvue, NE; 3 sisters, Margaret Jean, Clara, Margrette; 3 brothers, Robert, Claude and Jerry; 8 grandchildren, Kamilah Cunningham, Sherina Cunningham, Natasha Cunningham-Husband, Harrison (Christopher) Rivers, Lee (Q. Olivia) Rivers, James (Megan) Rivers, Jeffery Harding, and Jonathan (Ashley) Rivers and 9 great-grandchildren, Jazmine Cunningham, Jina' Cunningham, Aleecya Husband, Landon Rivers, Josslyn Rivers, Reese Rivers, Nolan Rivers, Savannah Rivers, and Baby Rivers due this fall.She is preceded in death by her parents. Her sisters, Minnie Lee, Evelyn, Martha, Claudia, and brothers, William, Charles and Herman Jr.A celebration of life service will be held at a later date due to the state's new mandates about gatherings. The family offers its apologies and wishes the services could be public.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to help with expenses or to the Living Word Church or the Manhattan Public Library Technology Training Center.Arrangements have been entrusted to Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home and Cremation.

Azer Lee Cunningham

Nancy's life began on September 28, 1951, in Humboldt, Nebraska.  She was the daughter of Wilmer H. and Pauline M. (Hefty) Nelson.  Nancy is a 1969 graduate of Newton High School and continued her education while serving her country in the United States Army.

  She earned a Bachelors Degree from the University of Maryland and a Master's Degree from the University of Kentucky.  Nancy entered the United States Army in 1969 and her primary mission was as a registered nurse and nurse practitioner until she retired from the Army in 1992 as a decorated Lt. Colonel.  Nancy was named Honor Graduate at the Walter Reed Army Institute for Nursing in the Class of 1973, and her personal military awards include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, four Army Achievement Medals and the Southwest Asia Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars.  She later worked for Via Christi Health Systems and the University of Kansas Hospital.

 Nancy loved bicycling, running marathons, ultra marathons, cross country, mountain hiking and staying physically active.  She also enjoyed quilting and her fellowship in the Burns Cornerstone Bible Church.  She was united in marriage to Jim Davis on July 1, 1989, in Newton and enjoyed 30 years of marriage.

  She is survived by her loving husband Jim of Burns, stepsons Mick (Dixie) Davis of Orlando, FL, and Tony Davis of Gardner, KS; her siblings Rev. Roy (Karen) Nelson of Hutchison, and Ethel Smith of Valley Center and five grandchildren.  Nancy passed away peacefully at her home on April 1, 2020, in Burns.  She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings Jean Clark and Linda Nelson.

  A family only memorial service will be held at the Burns Cornerstone Bible Church led by Pastor Jim Helzer on Tuesday, April 7th at 10 a.m. with live streaming available through the church for non-family.  She will be laid to rest in Pleasant Center Cemetery following the memorial service with military honors.  Yazel-Megli Funeral Home, Marion is serving the family.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in her name may be directed to Union Rescue Mission, Wichita or Victory in the Valley, Wichita.&nbsp;

Nancy's life began on September 28, 1951, in Humboldt, Nebraska. She was the daughter of Wilmer H. and Pauline M. (Hefty) Nelson. Nancy is a 1969 graduate of Newton High School and continued her education while serving her country in the United States Army. She earned a Bachelors Degree from the University of Maryland and a Master's Degree from the University of Kentucky. Nancy entered the United States Army in 1969 and her primary mission was as a registered nurse and nurse practitioner until she retired from the Army in 1992 as a decorated Lt. Colonel. Nancy was named Honor Graduate at the Walter Reed Army Institute for Nursing in the Class of 1973, and her personal military awards include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, four Army Achievement Medals and the Southwest Asia Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars. She later worked for Via Christi Health Systems and the University of Kansas Hospital. Nancy loved bicycling, running marathons, ultra marathons, cross country, mountain hiking and staying physically active. She also enjoyed quilting and her fellowship in the Burns Cornerstone Bible Church. She was united in marriage to Jim Davis on July 1, 1989, in Newton and enjoyed 30 years of marriage. She is survived by her loving husband Jim of Burns, stepsons Mick (Dixie) Davis of Orlando, FL, and Tony Davis of Gardner, KS; her siblings Rev. Roy (Karen) Nelson of Hutchison, and Ethel Smith of Valley Center and five grandchildren. Nancy passed away peacefully at her home on April 1, 2020, in Burns. She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings Jean Clark and Linda Nelson. A family only memorial service will be held at the Burns Cornerstone Bible Church led by Pastor Jim Helzer on Tuesday, April 7th at 10 a.m. with live streaming available through the church for non-family. She will be laid to rest in Pleasant Center Cemetery following the memorial service with military honors. Yazel-Megli Funeral Home, Marion is serving the family. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in her name may be directed to Union Rescue Mission, Wichita or Victory in the Valley, Wichita.&nbsp;

Nancy Nelson Davis - September 28, 1951-April 1, 2020 (age 68)

Mitch’s life began on September 26, 1962, the son of Otto and Edna (Reimer) Eck in Newton, Kansas. He graduated from Remington High Class of 1982. Mitch owned an appliance repair business, he was a truck driver and also a Railroad Crew Taxi Driver. He attended East Heights United Methodist Church in Wichita and enjoyed Wichita Thunder Hockey, watching car racing, and hockey games on television.

His loving family includes his brother, Russell Eck of Newton; Mitch’s companion, Katie Wadle of Park City; sister-in-law, Mary Petree (Robert) of Fort Wayne, Indiana; nephews, David Eck (Rachel) and Kevin Eck all of Fort Wayne.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Rodney Eck and Morris Eck. Mitch passed away peacefully on Friday, April 3, 2020, at the age of 57 years old.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice or the Gideon’s International, both in care of Lamb Funeral Home, P.O. Box 358, Whitewater, Kansas 67154.

Mitch’s life began on September 26, 1962, the son of Otto and Edna (Reimer) Eck in Newton, Kansas. He graduated from Remington High Class of 1982. Mitch owned an appliance repair business, he was a truck driver and also a Railroad Crew Taxi Driver. He attended East Heights United Methodist Church in Wichita and enjoyed Wichita Thunder Hockey, watching car racing, and hockey games on television.His loving family includes his brother, Russell Eck of Newton; Mitch’s companion, Katie Wadle of Park City; sister-in-law, Mary Petree (Robert) of Fort Wayne, Indiana; nephews, David Eck (Rachel) and Kevin Eck all of Fort Wayne.He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Rodney Eck and Morris Eck. Mitch passed away peacefully on Friday, April 3, 2020, at the age of 57 years old.A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice or the Gideon’s International, both in care of Lamb Funeral Home, P.O. Box 358, Whitewater, Kansas 67154.

Mitchel "Mitch" Raines Eck - September 26, 1962-April 3, 2020 (age 57)

Raymond Lee Nelson, age 89 of Riley, passed away Friday, March 27, 2020 at the Leonardville Nursing Home.



He was born on March 1, 1931 in Keats, the son of Elmer Sr. and Alice (Cravens) Nelson.  He graduated from Leonardville Rural High School where he was an excellent athlete in all sports.

On June 9, 1951, he was married to Mildred Joan Peterson.



Raymond was a lifetime farmer and cattleman.  He attended thousands of cattle sales during his life and was a member of the National Angus Association.  He loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and activities and especially enjoyed being a great grandfather.


He is survived by his wife, Milly Nelson; one son, Alan Nelson and wife Kimberly of Riley; three grandchildren, Mike Nelson and wife Becky of Leonardville, Jordy Nelson and wife Emily of Leonardville and Kelsey Nelson of Leonardville; seven great grandchildren, Izabel, Teske, Koy, Rhett, Royal, Brooks and Adda. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Jerry Ray Nelson in 1952 and Thomas Lee Nelson in 1954; one brother, Elmer Nelson, Jr. and one sister, Geneva Munson.



Respect calls may be made between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

A private family funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at the Walsburg Lutheran Church with Rev. Keith Wiens officiating.  A graveside service will immediately follow the funeral service in the Walsburg Cemetery.

A memorial has been established for the Walsburg Lutheran Church.&nbsp; Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Raymond Lee Nelson, age 89 of Riley, passed away Friday, March 27, 2020 at the Leonardville Nursing Home.

He was born on March 1, 1931 in Keats, the son of Elmer Sr. and Alice (Cravens) Nelson. He graduated from Leonardville Rural High School where he was an excellent athlete in all sports.

On June 9, 1951, he was married to Mildred Joan Peterson.

Raymond was a lifetime farmer and cattleman. He attended thousands of cattle sales during his life and was a member of the National Angus Association. He loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and activities and especially enjoyed being a great grandfather.
He is survived by his wife, Milly Nelson; one son, Alan Nelson and wife Kimberly of Riley; three grandchildren, Mike Nelson and wife Becky of Leonardville, Jordy Nelson and wife Emily of Leonardville and Kelsey Nelson of Leonardville; seven great grandchildren, Izabel, Teske, Koy, Rhett, Royal, Brooks and Adda. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Jerry Ray Nelson in 1952 and Thomas Lee Nelson in 1954; one brother, Elmer Nelson, Jr. and one sister, Geneva Munson.

Respect calls may be made between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

A private family funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at the Walsburg Lutheran Church with Rev. Keith Wiens officiating. A graveside service will immediately follow the funeral service in the Walsburg Cemetery.

A memorial has been established for the Walsburg Lutheran Church.&nbsp; Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Raymond Lee Nelson

Benjamin Joseph “BJ” Eichem, Jr. 78, of Wamego, KS passed away Monday, March 23, 2020 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, KS.

&nbsp; On January 7, 1942, BJ was born to Benjamin Joseph and Lydia Elizabeth (Strimple) Eichem, Sr. at their home near Belvue, KS. BJ attended Wamego High School and graduated in 1960. He would receive his Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education from Kansas State University and his Master’s Degree from Emporia State University. He started out as a coach and teacher in Maple Hill from 1965-1968 before becoming a Junior High School Science Teacher and athletic coach in Wamego from 1968-1978. He also served on the Wamego USD 320 Board of Education for 16 years and was elected as Director, President Elect, President and Past President of the Kansas Association of School Boards in Topeka, KS. After teaching, BJ worked for Keating &amp; Associates in Manhattan as an insurance agent for 35 years. He was united in marriage with Dalene LaFollette on June 1, 1968 at the Congregational Church in Manhattan. She survives of the home.

&nbsp; BJ was known for his infectious smile and having a kind and compassionate soul. He loved spending time with his family and friends, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, reading, and dancing with Dalene. He also enjoyed announcing at the Manhattan Raceway for a number of years and belonged to the Manhattan Timing Association. BJ was a founding member of the Wamego Jaycees. He was a member of the Wells Creek Church before becoming a member of the Wamego First Presbyterian Church where he served two terms as an Elder. He also represented the church in the Presbytery of Northern Kansas. BJ enjoyed carpentry and built the home that his family lived in for over forty years together. Hunter Safety was an important part of BJ’s life as well. BJ became a Charter Instructor for the Kansas Hunter Education Program from 1973 until his passing. He also served as a Wamego Library board member.

&nbsp; He is also survived by two children, Chris Eichem (Amy, and Angie DeLapp, both of Wamego, KS; three brothers, Bob (Becky, Thornton, CO, John (Janice, Wamego, KS, and Jerry (Deborah, Paxico, KS; one sister-in-law, Jan Carl (Chuck, Cuyahoga Falls, OH; four grandchildren, Gabe DeLapp, Ft. Bragg, NC, Sophia DeLapp, Tallahassee, FL, Luke DeLapp, Fairhope, AL, and Dustin Delehanty (Ashley, Manhattan, KS; one great-grandson, Brooks Delehanty, Manhattan, KS; and many nieces and nephews.

&nbsp;Private Graveside Service will be held at the Wamego City Cemetery on April 11, 2020. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family has suggested memorials to the Wamego Public Library or the First Presbyterian Church, and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.

Benjamin Joseph “BJ” Eichem, Jr. 78, of Wamego, KS passed away Monday, March 23, 2020 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, KS.&nbsp; On January 7, 1942, BJ was born to Benjamin Joseph and Lydia Elizabeth (Strimple) Eichem, Sr. at their home near Belvue, KS. BJ attended Wamego High School and graduated in 1960. He would receive his Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education from Kansas State University and his Master’s Degree from Emporia State University. He started out as a coach and teacher in Maple Hill from 1965-1968 before becoming a Junior High School Science Teacher and athletic coach in Wamego from 1968-1978. He also served on the Wamego USD 320 Board of Education for 16 years and was elected as Director, President Elect, President and Past President of the Kansas Association of School Boards in Topeka, KS. After teaching, BJ worked for Keating &amp; Associates in Manhattan as an insurance agent for 35 years. He was united in marriage with Dalene LaFollette on June 1, 1968 at the Congregational Church in Manhattan. She survives of the home.&nbsp; BJ was known for his infectious smile and having a kind and compassionate soul. He loved spending time with his family and friends, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, reading, and dancing with Dalene. He also enjoyed announcing at the Manhattan Raceway for a number of years and belonged to the Manhattan Timing Association. BJ was a founding member of the Wamego Jaycees. He was a member of the Wells Creek Church before becoming a member of the Wamego First Presbyterian Church where he served two terms as an Elder. He also represented the church in the Presbytery of Northern Kansas. BJ enjoyed carpentry and built the home that his family lived in for over forty years together. Hunter Safety was an important part of BJ’s life as well. BJ became a Charter Instructor for the Kansas Hunter Education Program from 1973 until his passing. He also served as a Wamego Library board member.&nbsp; He is also survived by two children, Chris Eichem (Amy, and Angie DeLapp, both of Wamego, KS; three brothers, Bob (Becky, Thornton, CO, John (Janice, Wamego, KS, and Jerry (Deborah, Paxico, KS; one sister-in-law, Jan Carl (Chuck, Cuyahoga Falls, OH; four grandchildren, Gabe DeLapp, Ft. Bragg, NC, Sophia DeLapp, Tallahassee, FL, Luke DeLapp, Fairhope, AL, and Dustin Delehanty (Ashley, Manhattan, KS; one great-grandson, Brooks Delehanty, Manhattan, KS; and many nieces and nephews.He is preceded in death by his parents.&nbsp;Private Graveside Service will be held at the Wamego City Cemetery on April 11, 2020. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family has suggested memorials to the Wamego Public Library or the First Presbyterian Church, and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.

Benjamin Joseph “BJ” Eichem

Norma Jean Davis, 91, passed away Sunday, March 29th, in Enterprise. She was born July 20, 1928 in Wakefield , the daughter of George and Louisa (Buchanan) Harris. Growing up in Industry, Norma attended local schools and graduated from Chapman High School. March 1, 1947 she was married to Preston Davis in Abilene. Most all of their married life was spent in Abilene. She had been employed by West's Plaza as a meat wrapper for many years. He preceded her in death in 2013.&nbsp; Norma enjoyed Gardening, coffee and spending time with family and friends. 

She was also preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Vera Boyd and a brother, Ray Harris. Norma is survived by: three daughters, Connie Zook of Abilene, Karen Schmidt of Salina, Lindy Mayes of Abilene, a son, Daniel Davis of Abilene; eleven grandchildren, twenty-two great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren and a sister Wanda Schlappy of Chapman.

 Private family grave side service will be held Thursday, April 2nd at the Bethel Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions in her name to be made to Hospice of Dickenson County. They may be sent in care of the Danner Funeral Home 501 N. Buckeye Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Norma Jean Davis, 91, passed away Sunday, March 29th, in Enterprise. She was born July 20, 1928 in Wakefield , the daughter of George and Louisa (Buchanan) Harris. Growing up in Industry, Norma attended local schools and graduated from Chapman High School. March 1, 1947 she was married to Preston Davis in Abilene. Most all of their married life was spent in Abilene. She had been employed by West's Plaza as a meat wrapper for many years. He preceded her in death in 2013.&nbsp; Norma enjoyed Gardening, coffee and spending time with family and friends. She was also preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Vera Boyd and a brother, Ray Harris. Norma is survived by: three daughters, Connie Zook of Abilene, Karen Schmidt of Salina, Lindy Mayes of Abilene, a son, Daniel Davis of Abilene; eleven grandchildren, twenty-two great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren and a sister Wanda Schlappy of Chapman. Private family grave side service will be held Thursday, April 2nd at the Bethel Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions in her name to be made to Hospice of Dickenson County. They may be sent in care of the Danner Funeral Home 501 N. Buckeye Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Obituaries