

Lucille Mary DeWyke, 98, of Wamego, KS passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2020.

Lucille was born in Pottawatomie County, KS on April 23, 1921, to Josie (Mayer) Brunkow and Emil Frank Brunkow.

On September 23, 1956, she married George Henry DeWyke, Jr.

Lucille was very active in her community being a part of the Harmony Rebecca Lodge 689, the Wamego Ladies Encampment, the Noble Grand, the Wamego Historical Society, and the Wataunsee County Historical Society. She was known as a model homemaker and an excellent cook.

She is survived by her son, Jimmy (Virginia) Aubert of LaHarpe, KS; Granddaughter Julie Aubert -Iola, KS, Grandsons, Alan (Gail) Aubert -Green Bay, WI, and Jared Aubert -Joplin, MO, and her brother, Cleo Brunkow, of Wamego.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her Husband George DeWyke Jr., and her two sisters, Gail Emily, and Jane Gordon.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Donations in her name can be made to the donor's choice.

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



Lucille Mary DeWyke, 98, of Wamego, KS passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2020.Lucille was born in Pottawatomie County, KS on April 23, 1921, to Josie (Mayer) Brunkow and Emil Frank Brunkow.Married Ray Henry Aubert in 1942.On September 23, 1956, she married George Henry DeWyke, Jr.Lucille was very active in her community being a part of the Harmony Rebecca Lodge 689, the Wamego Ladies Encampment, the Noble Grand, the Wamego Historical Society, and the Wataunsee County Historical Society. She was known as a model homemaker and an excellent cook.She is survived by her son, Jimmy (Virginia) Aubert of LaHarpe, KS; Granddaughter Julie Aubert -Iola, KS, Grandsons, Alan (Gail) Aubert -Green Bay, WI, and Jared Aubert -Joplin, MO, and her brother, Cleo Brunkow, of Wamego.She is preceded in death by her parents, her Husband George DeWyke Jr., and her two sisters, Gail Emily, and Jane Gordon.A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Donations in her name can be made to the donor's choice.Arrangements have been entrusted to Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home and Cremation.

Lucille Mary DeWyke

Travis William Prockish, 38, of Louisville, KS passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2020 in Louisville.

&nbsp;On June 6, 1981, Travis was born to Steve &amp; Desdia (Small) Prockish in Westmoreland, KS.&nbsp; Travis graduated from Wamego High School in 1999.&nbsp; He worked many odd jobs through construction and painting in his life.&nbsp; He loved to go fishing for catfish, hunting waterfowl, deer &amp; turkeys, and searching for Native American artifacts.&nbsp; He also enjoyed cutting firewood and doing wood working projects.

He is survived by his parents of Louisville, KS; a daughter, Brooke Prockish, Louisville, KS; two sisters, Misty Pratt (Chris, Paola, KS, and Meghan Kearn (Dennis, Wamego, KS; three nieces, Rylee Pratt, Ashlyn Pratt, and Emma Kearn; one nephew, Kaden Kearn; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Travis was preceded in death by his grandparents, Eugene &amp; Jean Prockish, and Gillen &amp; Karen Small; and two uncles, Gary Small and Jerry Small.

Private family services will be held at the St. Bernard Cemetery in Wamego, KS on Monday, April 14, 2020.&nbsp; Travis will lie-in-state Sunday, April 19th&nbsp;from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorials to the Brooke Prockish Education Fund, and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.&nbsp;

Travis William Prockish, 38, of Louisville, KS passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2020 in Louisville.&nbsp;On June 6, 1981, Travis was born to Steve &amp; Desdia (Small) Prockish in Westmoreland, KS.&nbsp; Travis graduated from Wamego High School in 1999.&nbsp; He worked many odd jobs through construction and painting in his life.&nbsp; He loved to go fishing for catfish, hunting waterfowl, deer &amp; turkeys, and searching for Native American artifacts.&nbsp; He also enjoyed cutting firewood and doing wood working projects.He is survived by his parents of Louisville, KS; a daughter, Brooke Prockish, Louisville, KS; two sisters, Misty Pratt (Chris, Paola, KS, and Meghan Kearn (Dennis, Wamego, KS; three nieces, Rylee Pratt, Ashlyn Pratt, and Emma Kearn; one nephew, Kaden Kearn; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.Travis was preceded in death by his grandparents, Eugene &amp; Jean Prockish, and Gillen &amp; Karen Small; and two uncles, Gary Small and Jerry Small.Private family services will be held at the St. Bernard Cemetery in Wamego, KS on Monday, April 14, 2020.&nbsp; Travis will lie-in-state Sunday, April 19th&nbsp;from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorials to the Brooke Prockish Education Fund, and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.&nbsp;

Travis William Prockish

Blanch Marie Roark, 90, of St. George, KS, passed away Friday, April 10 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, KS.

She was born in Indiana to Blanch Elizabeth (Moore) Blackburn and Dewey Kanada Blackburn. She and her three siblings were raised in Indiana until high school when the family moved to Kentucky so her dad could work at International Harvester. Blanch was a Christian and she met her husband in Kentucky at the church there. She worked putting her husband through college, then became a full time homemaker. Due to the military, they ended up living in San Diego, California where they raised their three children.

Blanch worshiped with the Canyon View Church of Christ in San Diego where she was very active with the Ladies Bible Class.

In 2019 due to health issues, she moved to Saint George, Kansas to live with her daughter and placed membership at the Manhattan Church of Christ. Even though her health was declining she was still up for adventure, travel and playing games. Quite often she would be at the Manhattan senior center playing games and having lunch there.

She was a great mom. She was always there for her kids when they needed her. She enjoyed going to the beach to watch the sunsets and seals and loved watching Hallmark movies with the family. She was generous with her time as well as her belongings.

She is preceeded in death by her parents, Blanch Elizabeth and Dewey Kanada Blackburn, her brother Raymond Dale Blackburn, husband Hurley Leroy Roark, son Neil Eugene Roark and grandson, Kristofer Tyler Millan Roark.

Survived by brother Dewey Blackburn and sister Delores Hysler, son Dan Roark and his wife Leticia, daughter Donna and her husband Hans Tessmann, three grandchildren, Kristyn, Kaleb and Kyla and three great grandchildren, Jordan, Axel and Sora. Also, many nieces and nephews.

All in all she said the most important thing in her life was to be a Christian and to set a good example.

Memorial celebration will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Manhattan Church of Christ, and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.

Blanch Marie Roark, 90, of St. George, KS, passed away Friday, April 10 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, KS.She was born in Indiana to Blanch Elizabeth (Moore) Blackburn and Dewey Kanada Blackburn. She and her three siblings were raised in Indiana until high school when the family moved to Kentucky so her dad could work at International Harvester. Blanch was a Christian and she met her husband in Kentucky at the church there. She worked putting her husband through college, then became a full time homemaker. Due to the military, they ended up living in San Diego, California where they raised their three children.Blanch worshiped with the Canyon View Church of Christ in San Diego where she was very active with the Ladies Bible Class.In 2019 due to health issues, she moved to Saint George, Kansas to live with her daughter and placed membership at the Manhattan Church of Christ. Even though her health was declining she was still up for adventure, travel and playing games. Quite often she would be at the Manhattan senior center playing games and having lunch there.She was a great mom. She was always there for her kids when they needed her. She enjoyed going to the beach to watch the sunsets and seals and loved watching Hallmark movies with the family. She was generous with her time as well as her belongings.She is preceeded in death by her parents, Blanch Elizabeth and Dewey Kanada Blackburn, her brother Raymond Dale Blackburn, husband Hurley Leroy Roark, son Neil Eugene Roark and grandson, Kristofer Tyler Millan Roark.Survived by brother Dewey Blackburn and sister Delores Hysler, son Dan Roark and his wife Leticia, daughter Donna and her husband Hans Tessmann, three grandchildren, Kristyn, Kaleb and Kyla and three great grandchildren, Jordan, Axel and Sora. Also, many nieces and nephews.All in all she said the most important thing in her life was to be a Christian and to set a good example.Memorial celebration will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Manhattan Church of Christ, and may be left in care of Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.

Blanch Marie Roark

Barbara Elaine Hay, 82, passed away at Diversicare Nursing Home in Council Grove, Kansas April 13th, 2020. Barbara was born June 2, 1937.

“Barb” as she was affectionately known to her family&nbsp;and many friends, grew up&nbsp;in Maine, graduating from Samuel D. Hanson High School with high honors. In the summers, she worked at one of the old resorts, Cape Rozier. Barb loved to remember those years.

She attended Ottawa University where she met the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Hay. They married on May 27, 1956 at the Methodist Church in Ottawa, Kansas.

Bob and Barb have four&nbsp;children. Their first, Janet Lynn, was premature and died five days later. Barb is survived by her 3 remaining children, Kimberly Sue Hay, 61, of Snowmass Village, Colorado, Christopher Scott, 58,&nbsp;and his wife, Michelle, Lincoln,&nbsp;Nebraska, Douglas Robert, 54, and his wife, Michele of Shawnee, Kansas. Barb is&nbsp;also survived by her husband, Bob, and his sister, Joan Stone-Stewart, of Waverly, Kansas and Bob’s brother, Vernon Hay who married Barb’s sister, Polly. Vern and Polly also live in Council Grove, Kansas and have 2 sons, Mitch, in New Hampshire and Jeff in California. Barb has five wonderful grandkids, Erin &amp; Kylie (Doug, Madison and Katie (Chris, two great grandchildren, Peyton, 4, and Elias, 14 months, both are children of her oldest grandson, Jason “Jay”, who proceeded her in death February 24, 2020.

Over the years, Bob and Barb made many moves related to promotions and job changes. Barb continued to pursue her education earning college hours where ever they were, ultimately graduating Suma Cum Laude in 1971 from Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina Kansas. She retired 25 years later in 1996 and was inducted into the Who’s Who in American Education by her former first grade students.

To know Barb was to love her; a quiet, gentle, funny, infinitely considerate and kind person who was a talented&nbsp;hobbyist in the old art of&nbsp;rug hooking. Barb created many beautiful pieces over the years and started two “hooking clubs” after her retirement. She made and nourished many friendships everywhere she and Bob lived and had a profound and lasting impact on her many, many students, some who were children and even a few grandchildren of her former students.&nbsp;

Barb and Bob would tell you, they have enjoyed a true story book love for each other for 65 years; a wonderful, full life together. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Barb will be cremated per her wishes. A memorial service honoring and celebrating her life will be planned at a future date.

Barbara Elaine Hay, 82, passed away at Diversicare Nursing Home in Council Grove, Kansas April 13th, 2020. Barbara was born June 2, 1937.“Barb” as she was affectionately known to her family&nbsp;and many friends, grew up&nbsp;in Maine, graduating from Samuel D. Hanson High School with high honors. In the summers, she worked at one of the old resorts, Cape Rozier. Barb loved to remember those years.She attended Ottawa University where she met the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Hay. They married on May 27, 1956 at the Methodist Church in Ottawa, Kansas.Bob and Barb have four&nbsp;children. Their first, Janet Lynn, was premature and died five days later. Barb is survived by her 3 remaining children, Kimberly Sue Hay, 61, of Snowmass Village, Colorado, Christopher Scott, 58,&nbsp;and his wife, Michelle, Lincoln,&nbsp;Nebraska, Douglas Robert, 54, and his wife, Michele of Shawnee, Kansas. Barb is&nbsp;also survived by her husband, Bob, and his sister, Joan Stone-Stewart, of Waverly, Kansas and Bob’s brother, Vernon Hay who married Barb’s sister, Polly. Vern and Polly also live in Council Grove, Kansas and have 2 sons, Mitch, in New Hampshire and Jeff in California. Barb has five wonderful grandkids, Erin &amp; Kylie (Doug, Madison and Katie (Chris, two great grandchildren, Peyton, 4, and Elias, 14 months, both are children of her oldest grandson, Jason “Jay”, who proceeded her in death February 24, 2020.Over the years, Bob and Barb made many moves related to promotions and job changes. Barb continued to pursue her education earning college hours where ever they were, ultimately graduating Suma Cum Laude in 1971 from Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina Kansas. She retired 25 years later in 1996 and was inducted into the Who’s Who in American Education by her former first grade students.To know Barb was to love her; a quiet, gentle, funny, infinitely considerate and kind person who was a talented&nbsp;hobbyist in the old art of&nbsp;rug hooking. Barb created many beautiful pieces over the years and started two “hooking clubs” after her retirement. She made and nourished many friendships everywhere she and Bob lived and had a profound and lasting impact on her many, many students, some who were children and even a few grandchildren of her former students.&nbsp;Barb and Bob would tell you, they have enjoyed a true story book love for each other for 65 years; a wonderful, full life together. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.Barb will be cremated per her wishes. A memorial service honoring and celebrating her life will be planned at a future date.

Barbara Elaine Hay

Dr. Marsha L. Albin, 68, of Junction City, died Tuesday, April 7, 2020 at her home. Marsha was born February 4, 1952 in Quinter, Kansas, the daughter of Marvin T. and Eullah E. (Rash) Albin.

She attended Sylvan Unified High School and graduated in the Class of 1970. She later attended Fort Hays State University, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree and her Master's Degree. Marsha earned her Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Psychology from Kansas State University.

She was the School Psychologist for USD # 475 from 1981-2015 in Junction City.

Marsha is survived by a brother, Marvin R. "Ronnie" Albin, San Bernardino, Calif.; and 3 sisters, Mickey Juenemann, Longmont, Colorado, Rhonda Sulsar and her husband Rick, Solomon, and Cynthia Austin and her husband Kyle, Preston. Marsha was preceded in death by her parents, and an infant brother Charles E. Albin.

Due to the current environment surrounding COVID-19, there are no services planned. Inurnment will be in the Quinter Cemetery, Quinter, Kansas.

Johnson Funeral Home in Junction City in charge of arrangements,

Dr. Marsha L. Albin, 68, of Junction City, died Tuesday, April 7, 2020 at her home. Marsha was born February 4, 1952 in Quinter, Kansas, the daughter of Marvin T. and Eullah E. (Rash) Albin.She attended Sylvan Unified High School and graduated in the Class of 1970. She later attended Fort Hays State University, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree and her Master's Degree. Marsha earned her Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Psychology from Kansas State University.She was the School Psychologist for USD # 475 from 1981-2015 in Junction City.Marsha is survived by a brother, Marvin R. "Ronnie" Albin, San Bernardino, Calif.; and 3 sisters, Mickey Juenemann, Longmont, Colorado, Rhonda Sulsar and her husband Rick, Solomon, and Cynthia Austin and her husband Kyle, Preston. Marsha was preceded in death by her parents, and an infant brother Charles E. Albin.Cremation is planned.Due to the current environment surrounding COVID-19, there are no services planned. Inurnment will be in the Quinter Cemetery, Quinter, Kansas.Johnson Funeral Home in Junction City in charge of arrangements,

Dr. Marsha L. Albin



Joyce M. Whitson, age 84, died on Friday April 10, 2020 at the Meadowlark Hills-Scenic House, Manhattan, KS.

She was born on June 22, 1935 in Olpe, Kansas the daughter of Vernal &amp; Mary (Phillips) Grieder.

Private Graveside Services will be held at a later date in Sunrise Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Service will be announced later by the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home 1616 Poyntz Avenue Manhattan, Kansas.

Joyce M. Whitson, age 84, died on Friday April 10, 2020 at the Meadowlark Hills-Scenic House, Manhattan, KS.She was born on June 22, 1935 in Olpe, Kansas the daughter of Vernal &amp; Mary (Phillips) Grieder.Private Graveside Services will be held at a later date in Sunrise Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Service will be announced later by the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home 1616 Poyntz Avenue Manhattan, Kansas.Memorial Funds:1st Presbyterian ChurchJohnson Cancer Center at KSU

Joyce M. Whitson

Trevor James Groundwater, 24, of Kansas City, Missouri, formerly of Lawrence, Kansas, died Wednesday, April 8, 2020, at his home. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Trevor was born on August 30, 1995, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of Paul and Lana Muckenthaler Groundwater. &nbsp;Trevor received is high school education at home and then graduated from Washburn University in Topeka. &nbsp;He was a member of Beta Alpha Psi, an international honor organization for financial and information professionals.

Trevor was a Certified Public Accountant and work for BKD Accounting and Advisory Firm in Kansas City.

Trevor enjoyed jogging and trying all the local coffee places, bars and restaurants. &nbsp;He loved country and folk music and in his middle school and high school years did several acting roles. &nbsp;Trevor was a big Chiefs, Royals, and Sporting KC fan. Trevor enjoyed traveling, his cats, but most importantly, he was always trying to help others. &nbsp;He even became ordained so he could officiate a friend’s wedding. &nbsp;Trevor was a member of Trinity Family of Faith Lutheran Church. &nbsp;He taught 6th grade Sunday School class and was a member of the Stewardship Committee at his church.

Trevor married Elizabeth Maradee Masson on June 7, 2014, in Lawrence, Kansas. &nbsp;She survives.

Trevor is also survived by his parents, Paul and Lana Groundwater, of Lawrence; his sisters, Shaunie and Darcie Groundwater, also of Lawrence; his maternal grandmother, Beverly Muckenthaler, of Wamego; his in-laws, John and Lisa Masson, of Baldwin; his brother and sisters-in-law, Nathan, Helena , Marysa and Sydney Masson, all of Baldwin; other family members and many friends. &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Calvin Muckenthaler, and his paternal grandparents, James and LaVelle Groundwater.

A private graveside service will be held at Wamego City Cemetery. &nbsp;A Celebration of Trevor’s Life service will be held at a later date. &nbsp;A suggested memorial contribution for suicide prevention will be named at a later time, and those may be sent in care of Campanella-Evans Mortuary in Wamego.

Trevor James Groundwater, 24, of Kansas City, Missouri, formerly of Lawrence, Kansas, died Wednesday, April 8, 2020, at his home. &nbsp;&nbsp;Trevor was born on August 30, 1995, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of Paul and Lana Muckenthaler Groundwater. &nbsp;Trevor received is high school education at home and then graduated from Washburn University in Topeka. &nbsp;He was a member of Beta Alpha Psi, an international honor organization for financial and information professionals.Trevor was a Certified Public Accountant and work for BKD Accounting and Advisory Firm in Kansas City.Trevor enjoyed jogging and trying all the local coffee places, bars and restaurants. &nbsp;He loved country and folk music and in his middle school and high school years did several acting roles. &nbsp;Trevor was a big Chiefs, Royals, and Sporting KC fan. Trevor enjoyed traveling, his cats, but most importantly, he was always trying to help others. &nbsp;He even became ordained so he could officiate a friend’s wedding. &nbsp;Trevor was a member of Trinity Family of Faith Lutheran Church. &nbsp;He taught 6th grade Sunday School class and was a member of the Stewardship Committee at his church.Trevor married Elizabeth Maradee Masson on June 7, 2014, in Lawrence, Kansas. &nbsp;She survives.Trevor is also survived by his parents, Paul and Lana Groundwater, of Lawrence; his sisters, Shaunie and Darcie Groundwater, also of Lawrence; his maternal grandmother, Beverly Muckenthaler, of Wamego; his in-laws, John and Lisa Masson, of Baldwin; his brother and sisters-in-law, Nathan, Helena , Marysa and Sydney Masson, all of Baldwin; other family members and many friends. &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Calvin Muckenthaler, and his paternal grandparents, James and LaVelle Groundwater.A private graveside service will be held at Wamego City Cemetery. &nbsp;A Celebration of Trevor’s Life service will be held at a later date. &nbsp;A suggested memorial contribution for suicide prevention will be named at a later time, and those may be sent in care of Campanella-Evans Mortuary in Wamego.

Trevor James Groundwater

Jerry Higgins passed away April 6th in Marion. Jerry was always proud that he lived his entire life in (or very near to) Marion County. He traveled the world and saw many exciting places and had wonderful adventures but to Jerry, Marion really was the best place he’d seen. Jerry was a planner and organizer and liked things to be done a little bit different, and his way, so he had prepared his own obituary and in his words he would like to share…..“William Gerald (Jerry) Higgins lived most of his life near two Kansas streams, Doyle Creek and the Cottonwood. From the beginning on February 14, 1927 to the end Life Was Good. His first 17 years happened by Doyle Creek.

 After graduating from Peabody High School in 1944 he served for two years in the United States Navy. The G.I. Bill made it easy to attend Kansas University where an interest in chemistry led to his graduating as a pharmacist in 1951. He met Helen Hett in his dad’s Rexall drug store in Peabody that summer and they married in September. They lived in Wichita and Valley Center where Helen was the High School Home Economics teacher. In 1956 they brought their son, John, to Marion when they bought the Marion Rexall Pharmacy. Daughters Ann and Susan completed their family. The following years with family and friends went fast. Life Was Good!

 The fast life slowed when they sold the pharmacy in 1974 Jerry and Helen enjoyed living in Marion as their nest emptied. Six grandchildren arrived, filling the extended family nests. Not being tied to a drug store made travel easier. Two of their many adventures were golfing in Scotland and a week of white water rafting through the Grand Canyon. Life Was Good! John, Ann, and Susan were all living their own good lives. Everything seemed to be going well until Helen’s death in 1994. By 2001 he felt it was time to not renew his pharmacy license bringing 50 years as a pharmacist to a close. Then another tragic event occurred when cancer caused Ann’s death in 2001. His urge to travel continued. With his companion, Lynne Watts, he toured and cruised for almost 20 years. They enjoyed places like Africa and Tahiti. It was great to see different parts of the world, but also gratifying to return to the valley of the Cottonwood.

 There were many fond memories of the whole family from a great-grandmother to the amazing great-grandchildren. Being part of seven generations was fulfilling. His life was but a brief moment in eternity, but life to Jerry Higgins seemed like a long and winding road, and Life Was Good!” Yazel-Megli Funeral Home is serving the family.&nbsp;

Jerry Higgins passed away April 6th in Marion. Jerry was always proud that he lived his entire life in (or very near to) Marion County. He traveled the world and saw many exciting places and had wonderful adventures but to Jerry, Marion really was the best place he’d seen. Jerry was a planner and organizer and liked things to be done a little bit different, and his way, so he had prepared his own obituary and in his words he would like to share…..“William Gerald (Jerry) Higgins lived most of his life near two Kansas streams, Doyle Creek and the Cottonwood. From the beginning on February 14, 1927 to the end Life Was Good. His first 17 years happened by Doyle Creek. After graduating from Peabody High School in 1944 he served for two years in the United States Navy. The G.I. Bill made it easy to attend Kansas University where an interest in chemistry led to his graduating as a pharmacist in 1951. He met Helen Hett in his dad’s Rexall drug store in Peabody that summer and they married in September. They lived in Wichita and Valley Center where Helen was the High School Home Economics teacher. In 1956 they brought their son, John, to Marion when they bought the Marion Rexall Pharmacy. Daughters Ann and Susan completed their family. The following years with family and friends went fast. Life Was Good! The fast life slowed when they sold the pharmacy in 1974 Jerry and Helen enjoyed living in Marion as their nest emptied. Six grandchildren arrived, filling the extended family nests. Not being tied to a drug store made travel easier. Two of their many adventures were golfing in Scotland and a week of white water rafting through the Grand Canyon. Life Was Good! John, Ann, and Susan were all living their own good lives. Everything seemed to be going well until Helen’s death in 1994. By 2001 he felt it was time to not renew his pharmacy license bringing 50 years as a pharmacist to a close. Then another tragic event occurred when cancer caused Ann’s death in 2001. His urge to travel continued. With his companion, Lynne Watts, he toured and cruised for almost 20 years. They enjoyed places like Africa and Tahiti. It was great to see different parts of the world, but also gratifying to return to the valley of the Cottonwood. There were many fond memories of the whole family from a great-grandmother to the amazing great-grandchildren. Being part of seven generations was fulfilling. His life was but a brief moment in eternity, but life to Jerry Higgins seemed like a long and winding road, and Life Was Good!” Yazel-Megli Funeral Home is serving the family.&nbsp;

William "Jerry" Gerald Higgins - February 14, 1927-April 6, 2020 (age 93)

John Henry “Jack” Gieswein was born April 25, 1924 in a sod home northwest of Tribune, Kansas to Jake Gieswein and Mary “Kuddes” Gieswein.&nbsp; Jack was the third of five childen.&nbsp; He departed this life on April 10, 2020 at the Council Grove assisted Living.

Jack attended Walnut Grove, a&nbsp;one room school and Wilsey High School.&nbsp; After high school he helped with the family farm and&nbsp;worked at the Wilsey Grain Elevator delivering feed.&nbsp; At this time, he started his passion of working with horses breaking many horses to ride for the area farmers.&nbsp; One of his first horses came in on a railroad cattle car from Texas.

On August 5, 1951 he married Joanne Blanton at the Council Grove Methodist Church. Shortly after their marriage, they purchased a farm east of Wilsey where they resided until this past&nbsp;January.&nbsp; For many years, Jack was a dairy farmer.&nbsp; Later, he raised crops along with handling grass cattle.&nbsp; It was the first time he started raising horses and training them to work cattle.&nbsp; His real pride and joy was a cutting horse he raised name Doc A Duece that won several cutting horse competitions.&nbsp; By this time, Jack had several brood mares that he raised colts from his horse&nbsp;“Doc” which were sold to many ranchers in the area.&nbsp; He enjoyed helping other ranchers gather their cattle during shipping season, often many of the horses originated from his farm which gave him much pride.

Jack was always willing to offer his help and cattle to be used at the local cutting horse competition.&nbsp; He also helped with the Morris County Youth Rodeo Association providing cattle and support as needed.&nbsp; One of his greatest awards was given to him last fall by the Morris County Youth Rodeo Association for being a long time honored supporter.

Jack was an avid hunter, making several trips to western Kansas and Colorado to hunt pheasants and elk with his sons and neighbors.&nbsp; Later on, you could always find him at morning coffee at Wilsey and the Saddlerock Café enjoying visiting with friends and neighbors.

Jack is survived by his loving wife Joanne of the home.&nbsp; Two sons, Gary Gieswein and wife Regina of Emporia and Greg&nbsp; Gieswein and wife Dee of Council Grove.&nbsp; Three grandchildren, Eric Gieswein and wife Renee on Monroeville, New Jersey, Jessica Lee and husband Nathan of Ottawa, Kansas.&nbsp; Heidi McDermot and husband Ryon of Mobile, Alabama.&nbsp; Five great-grandchildren, Payton and Madison Lee, Mikaela and Alexandra Gieswein and Avery McDermot.&nbsp; Jack was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Floyd and William and sister Dorothy.

John Henry “Jack” Gieswein was born April 25, 1924 in a sod home northwest of Tribune, Kansas to Jake Gieswein and Mary “Kuddes” Gieswein.&nbsp; Jack was the third of five childen.&nbsp; He departed this life on April 10, 2020 at the Council Grove assisted Living.Jack attended Walnut Grove, a&nbsp;one room school and Wilsey High School.&nbsp; After high school he helped with the family farm and&nbsp;worked at the Wilsey Grain Elevator delivering feed.&nbsp; At this time, he started his passion of working with horses breaking many horses to ride for the area farmers.&nbsp; One of his first horses came in on a railroad cattle car from Texas.On August 5, 1951 he married Joanne Blanton at the Council Grove Methodist Church. Shortly after their marriage, they purchased a farm east of Wilsey where they resided until this past&nbsp;January.&nbsp; For many years, Jack was a dairy farmer.&nbsp; Later, he raised crops along with handling grass cattle.&nbsp; It was the first time he started raising horses and training them to work cattle.&nbsp; His real pride and joy was a cutting horse he raised name Doc A Duece that won several cutting horse competitions.&nbsp; By this time, Jack had several brood mares that he raised colts from his horse&nbsp;“Doc” which were sold to many ranchers in the area.&nbsp; He enjoyed helping other ranchers gather their cattle during shipping season, often many of the horses originated from his farm which gave him much pride.Jack was always willing to offer his help and cattle to be used at the local cutting horse competition.&nbsp; He also helped with the Morris County Youth Rodeo Association providing cattle and support as needed.&nbsp; One of his greatest awards was given to him last fall by the Morris County Youth Rodeo Association for being a long time honored supporter.Jack was an avid hunter, making several trips to western Kansas and Colorado to hunt pheasants and elk with his sons and neighbors.&nbsp; Later on, you could always find him at morning coffee at Wilsey and the Saddlerock Café enjoying visiting with friends and neighbors.Jack is survived by his loving wife Joanne of the home.&nbsp; Two sons, Gary Gieswein and wife Regina of Emporia and Greg&nbsp; Gieswein and wife Dee of Council Grove.&nbsp; Three grandchildren, Eric Gieswein and wife Renee on Monroeville, New Jersey, Jessica Lee and husband Nathan of Ottawa, Kansas.&nbsp; Heidi McDermot and husband Ryon of Mobile, Alabama.&nbsp; Five great-grandchildren, Payton and Madison Lee, Mikaela and Alexandra Gieswein and Avery McDermot.&nbsp; Jack was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Floyd and William and sister Dorothy.

John "Jack" Henry Gieswein - April 25, 1924-April 10, 2020 (age 95)

Rose Mary's life began on November 18, 1941, at home, near Odin.  She was the daughter of Eddy J. and Cecelia (Prusa) Schneweis.  Rose Mary is a 1959 graduate of Odin High School. She also attended two years of business college and worked for a short time following graduation.  She was united in marriage to Bob Neuwirth on June 3, 1961, in Odin.  Rose Mary was a faithful parishioner of St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Pilsen.  She taught religion classes for many years and decided to teach the children about Fr. Kapan. This small act became her passion and was the beginning of what has grown into a worldwide promotion of Fr. Kapaun’s works and life. She was the creator of the Father Emil Kapaun Legacy Fund [DS1] Guild, the Kapaun Museum, and by telling his story through her devotion to his sacrifices.  Rose Mary was active in the St. Anne's Altar Society and enjoyed sewing for her family, making doll clothes and quilting.

  Her greatest joy was her family which includes her husband Bob of Pilsen; children Duane Neuwirth of Lost Springs, Diana Stanfill of Salina, and Laurie (Jay) Brunner of Herington; grandchildren Crystal Barnett, Mitchell Neuwirth, Jason Brunner, and Josh Brunner; great-grandchildren Elijah, Easton, , Ellis, and Elise Barnett; siblings Larry Schneweis, Jim (Janet) Schneweis, Laurie (Glenn) Swalley and Ellen Carlstead.

  Rose Mary passed away on April 8, 2020, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita.  She is preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter Kristin Brunner, brother Leon Schneweis and sister Marie Fisher.  Friends are welcome to pay their respects on Monday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Yazel-Megli Funeral Home, Marion.

  Private Graveside services will be conducted and a memorial Mass of Christian burial will be announced at a later date.  Memorial contributions in Rose Mary's name may be directed to the Father Kapaun Legacy Fund.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rose Mary's life began on November 18, 1941, at home, near Odin. She was the daughter of Eddy J. and Cecelia (Prusa) Schneweis. Rose Mary is a 1959 graduate of Odin High School. She also attended two years of business college and worked for a short time following graduation. She was united in marriage to Bob Neuwirth on June 3, 1961, in Odin. Rose Mary was a faithful parishioner of St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Pilsen. She taught religion classes for many years and decided to teach the children about Fr. Kapan. This small act became her passion and was the beginning of what has grown into a worldwide promotion of Fr. Kapaun’s works and life. She was the creator of the Father Emil Kapaun Legacy Fund [DS1] Guild, the Kapaun Museum, and by telling his story through her devotion to his sacrifices. Rose Mary was active in the St. Anne's Altar Society and enjoyed sewing for her family, making doll clothes and quilting. Her greatest joy was her family which includes her husband Bob of Pilsen; children Duane Neuwirth of Lost Springs, Diana Stanfill of Salina, and Laurie (Jay) Brunner of Herington; grandchildren Crystal Barnett, Mitchell Neuwirth, Jason Brunner, and Josh Brunner; great-grandchildren Elijah, Easton, , Ellis, and Elise Barnett; siblings Larry Schneweis, Jim (Janet) Schneweis, Laurie (Glenn) Swalley and Ellen Carlstead. Rose Mary passed away on April 8, 2020, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. She is preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter Kristin Brunner, brother Leon Schneweis and sister Marie Fisher. Friends are welcome to pay their respects on Monday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Yazel-Megli Funeral Home, Marion. Private Graveside services will be conducted and a memorial Mass of Christian burial will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions in Rose Mary's name may be directed to the Father Kapaun Legacy Fund.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rose Mary (Schneweis) Neuwirth - November 18, 1941-April 8, 2020 (age 78)



Anita Kay Pritchett, 53, a resident Manhattan, died on April 2, 2020 after a lengthy illness. She died of pulmonary hypertension.

 Anita was born in Floydada, Texas on May 23 1966 to Ray and Sue Nichols of Floydada, Texas. She was a loving mother and wife. She graduated from Floydada High School 1984. She was a substitute teacher in Plainview, Texas. She met James (Jim) Pritchett from Flomot, Texas, and they were married in May of 1985.

They moved to Junction City in 2007 and then to Manhattan where Anita attended K-State University to get her Kansas teaching license. She loved to teach and was looking forward to teaching at school and at church sadly her disease made it impossible to continue. She will always be remembered for her smile and good nature.

Anita was preceded in death by a brother David Nichols.

Anita leaves behind her husband and her two kids all from Manhattan, also her 9 brothers still living, 8 from Texas and 1 from Arizona, a sister who is also from Texas.

Celebration of Life Services will be held at a later date, when it is safe for everyone to attend.

The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.



Anita Kay Pritchett, 53, a resident Manhattan, died on April 2, 2020 after a lengthy illness. She died of pulmonary hypertension. Anita was born in Floydada, Texas on May 23 1966 to Ray and Sue Nichols of Floydada, Texas. She was a loving mother and wife. She graduated from Floydada High School 1984. She was a substitute teacher in Plainview, Texas. She met James (Jim) Pritchett from Flomot, Texas, and they were married in May of 1985.They moved to Junction City in 2007 and then to Manhattan where Anita attended K-State University to get her Kansas teaching license. She loved to teach and was looking forward to teaching at school and at church sadly her disease made it impossible to continue. She will always be remembered for her smile and good nature.Anita was preceded in death by a brother David Nichols.Anita leaves behind her husband and her two kids all from Manhattan, also her 9 brothers still living, 8 from Texas and 1 from Arizona, a sister who is also from Texas.Celebration of Life Services will be held at a later date, when it is safe for everyone to attend.The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.

Anita Kay Pritchett

Willie Otis Gibson, age 82 of Riley, passed away Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House.



He was born on February 13, 1938 in Timberlake, South Dakota, the son of Maybell Gibson.

On December 19, 1959 he was married to Donna Lee Davis.  She preceded him in death on June 11, 2006.

Willie was a farm laborer for the majority of his life.  He enjoyed working at the Riley City Landfill, visiting with the people that came with their grass clippings and tree limbs and taking his dogs to run.



He is survived by one daughter, Vaughan Lee Gibson of Riley; four sons, Brandon Del Gibson of Riley, Jeffrey Otis Gibson of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Kenneth Lee Gibson of Hays and Edward Otis Gibson of Hays; six local grandchildren, Myia Gibson, KyMara Gibson, William Gibson, Kyia Gibson, Lacey Gibson and Zadyn Gibson and several other grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Donna Gibson, he was preceded in death by his mother, Maybell Masson and one son, Shane Del Gibson.


A private family graveside service will be held in the Home Sweet Home Cemetery near Lebanon, Kansas.  The family will have a Celebration of Life service for him at a later date.

A memorial has been established for the Willie Gibson Memorial Fund.&nbsp; Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Willie Otis Gibson, age 82 of Riley, passed away Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House.

He was born on February 13, 1938 in Timberlake, South Dakota, the son of Maybell Gibson.

On December 19, 1959 he was married to Donna Lee Davis. She preceded him in death on June 11, 2006.

Willie was a farm laborer for the majority of his life. He enjoyed working at the Riley City Landfill, visiting with the people that came with their grass clippings and tree limbs and taking his dogs to run.

He is survived by one daughter, Vaughan Lee Gibson of Riley; four sons, Brandon Del Gibson of Riley, Jeffrey Otis Gibson of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Kenneth Lee Gibson of Hays and Edward Otis Gibson of Hays; six local grandchildren, Myia Gibson, KyMara Gibson, William Gibson, Kyia Gibson, Lacey Gibson and Zadyn Gibson and several other grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Donna Gibson, he was preceded in death by his mother, Maybell Masson and one son, Shane Del Gibson.
A private family graveside service will be held in the Home Sweet Home Cemetery near Lebanon, Kansas. The family will have a Celebration of Life service for him at a later date.

A memorial has been established for the Willie Gibson Memorial Fund.&nbsp; Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Willie Otis Gibson



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 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.

Obituaries