Virginia Maria Hall 
Born in San Antonio, TX on May 5, 1948. Passed away April 23, 2023. 
Known to many as Mom, Grandma, Aunt B., and Mama V. 
Preceded in death by her son, Daniel Brickei and two brothers, Juan and Julian Longoria. 
Survived by five children; two sons: Michael Brickei (Daisy) and Joseph 
Hall; three daughters: Charlene Ritter (Mike), Melissa Hall, and Janie 
Hall; two sisters: Olga Dulaney and Mary McNeece; one brother: Johnny 
Longoria; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, other extended 
family, and her ex-husband Michael Hall. 
Virginia loved her family and was a devoted caregiver to many, even 
those outside of her biological family. She was a second Mom or Grandma 
in many lives she touched. She often would put her needs last to provide
 for those she loved. She was a remarkably strong woman despite many 
struggles she endured throughout her lifetime. She was a great model of 
strength, strong-will, and determination to her daughters and others. 
She had been a dedicated and hard-worker all of her life, always 
punctual and taking pride in everything she did. She filled many roles 
while also being a full-time mom which included being a cook, dietary 
aide, and produce clerk. 
Virginia grew up playing softball and later bowled in leagues. She was 
beyond social and never met a stranger. She was an avid Dallas Cowboys 
fan, loved to play bingo with her best friend Mary Breeden, go to 
dinners with friends, watch older shows, listen to music, complete word 
searches, put puzzles together, and play solitaire. 
She is greatly loved and missed. There was no one quite like Our Momma.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682451046915.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Virginia Maria Hall 
Born in San Antonio, TX on May 5, 1948. Passed away April 23, 2023. 
Known to many as Mom, Grandma, Aunt B., and Mama V. 
Preceded in death by her son, Daniel Brickei and two brothers, Juan and Julian Longoria. 
Survived by five children; two sons: Michael Brickei (Daisy) and Joseph 
Hall; three daughters: Charlene Ritter (Mike), Melissa Hall, and Janie 
Hall; two sisters: Olga Dulaney and Mary McNeece; one brother: Johnny 
Longoria; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, other extended 
family, and her ex-husband Michael Hall. 
Virginia loved her family and was a devoted caregiver to many, even 
those outside of her biological family. She was a second Mom or Grandma 
in many lives she touched. She often would put her needs last to provide
 for those she loved. She was a remarkably strong woman despite many 
struggles she endured throughout her lifetime. She was a great model of 
strength, strong-will, and determination to her daughters and others. 
She had been a dedicated and hard-worker all of her life, always 
punctual and taking pride in everything she did. She filled many roles 
while also being a full-time mom which included being a cook, dietary 
aide, and produce clerk. 
Virginia grew up playing softball and later bowled in leagues. She was 
beyond social and never met a stranger. She was an avid Dallas Cowboys 
fan, loved to play bingo with her best friend Mary Breeden, go to 
dinners with friends, watch older shows, listen to music, complete word 
searches, put puzzles together, and play solitaire. 
She is greatly loved and missed. There was no one quite like Our Momma.&nbsp;

Virginia Maria Hall

Matthew Dane Langdon, age 49, of Abilene, KS departed his earthly home to 
be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, April 21, 2023.

Matt 
is survived by his parents Doran and Charles "Chuck" Clemence, Abilene, 
KS and Michael (Mic) and Kris Langdon, Abilene, KS His sister Angela 
"Angie" and Terry Reiff, Hope, KS and step brother Matt Clemence of 
Solomon. Also his step brothers Todd Schmidt (Tammy), Manhattan, KS 
and Jamie (Staci) Schmidt, Queens Creek, AZ and stepsister Alison 
(Mitch) Swargerty, of Glendale, AZ. He was proud of his Nephews 
Rocque (Krista) Russell, Abilene, KS, Clayton Carson, Hope, Ks, his 
Nieces Jenna (Dale) Cornelison, Philadelphia, PA and Katelyn Reiff, 
Manhattan, KS. His Aunts and Uncles and cousins and many friends. He 
also dearly loved his dogs Dixie and Duke. 
Matt was preceded in death by his grandparents John and Doris Larson, 
Marvin and Helen Langdon, Roy "Babe" Clemence and stepbrother Todd 
Clemence. 
Matt loved farming and working with heavy equipment and could operate 
equipment "by the seat of his pants" smooth and steady. He was an 
accomplished welder and fabricator. 
 Matt had a huge gift of compassion, love and concern for others. He 
would tell you he has experienced many answered prayers and the saving 
grace of Jesus throughout his life. 
Matt absolutely loved to entertain us with his unique sense of humor, 
always a smile and giggly laughter spilled from him which made each of 
us feel genuinely special and loved. He was an "old soul" reminiscing 
and admiring the past generations that worked so hard and gave their 
"all" for the freedoms we have. He loved History, his heritage and old 
country music. 
Matt graduated from Abilene High School with the Class of 1992. 
He was a loyal friend, son, brother, uncle, nephew and cousin. 
 A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Emmanuel Church 1300 
North Vine Street, Abilene, KS on Friday, April 28, at 2:00 p.m. 
Visitation will be held at the Martin- Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 
Thursday, April 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., 414 N.W. 3rd Street, 
Abilene, KS 
Private family grave site services at the Prairie Dale Cemetery north of Talmage will be held at a later date. 
Donations may be given to The Cedar House Recovery, Abilene, KS or The 
Salina Rescue Mission, Salina, KS to help others restore their lives. 
Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral 
Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410. Online condolences may 
be sent to www.martinbeckercarlson.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682427794038.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Matthew Dane Langdon, age 49, of Abilene, KS departed his earthly home to 
be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, April 21, 2023. Matt 
is survived by his parents Doran and Charles "Chuck" Clemence, Abilene, 
KS and Michael (Mic) and Kris Langdon, Abilene, KS His sister Angela 
"Angie" and Terry Reiff, Hope, KS and step brother Matt Clemence of 
Solomon. Also his step brothers Todd Schmidt (Tammy), Manhattan, KS 
and Jamie (Staci) Schmidt, Queens Creek, AZ and stepsister Alison 
(Mitch) Swargerty, of Glendale, AZ. He was proud of his Nephews 
Rocque (Krista) Russell, Abilene, KS, Clayton Carson, Hope, Ks, his 
Nieces Jenna (Dale) Cornelison, Philadelphia, PA and Katelyn Reiff, 
Manhattan, KS. His Aunts and Uncles and cousins and many friends. He 
also dearly loved his dogs Dixie and Duke. 
Matt was preceded in death by his grandparents John and Doris Larson, 
Marvin and Helen Langdon, Roy "Babe" Clemence and stepbrother Todd 
Clemence. 
Matt loved farming and working with heavy equipment and could operate 
equipment "by the seat of his pants" smooth and steady. He was an 
accomplished welder and fabricator. 
 Matt had a huge gift of compassion, love and concern for others. He 
would tell you he has experienced many answered prayers and the saving 
grace of Jesus throughout his life. 
Matt absolutely loved to entertain us with his unique sense of humor, 
always a smile and giggly laughter spilled from him which made each of 
us feel genuinely special and loved. He was an "old soul" reminiscing 
and admiring the past generations that worked so hard and gave their 
"all" for the freedoms we have. He loved History, his heritage and old 
country music. 
Matt graduated from Abilene High School with the Class of 1992. 
He was a loyal friend, son, brother, uncle, nephew and cousin. 
 A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Emmanuel Church 1300 
North Vine Street, Abilene, KS on Friday, April 28, at 2:00 p.m. 
Visitation will be held at the Martin- Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 
Thursday, April 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., 414 N.W. 3rd Street, 
Abilene, KS 
Private family grave site services at the Prairie Dale Cemetery north of Talmage will be held at a later date. 
Donations may be given to The Cedar House Recovery, Abilene, KS or The 
Salina Rescue Mission, Salina, KS to help others restore their lives. 
Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral 
Home, 414 NW Third St., Abilene, Kansas 67410. Online condolences may 
be sent to www.martinbeckercarlson.com

Matthew Langdon

J. Douglas Toll, 78 died April 20, 2023, in Washington County, KS.&nbsp; He was born on August 16, 1944, in Rockford, IL the son of Roy Leonard and Evelyn Irene (Anderson) Toll.&nbsp; 

Doug grew up in the Clifton community and was a graduate of Clifton High School.&nbsp; He farmed with his father before taking over the family farm.&nbsp; Doug married Maureen Grant on April 11, 1969.&nbsp; He was a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Clay Center and Gideon’s International.&nbsp; 

He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Tage Toll

Daughter: Kensey and husband Loren Ledebuhr

Daughter: Chelsea and husband Matthew Varner

Memorial Services:&nbsp; 10:30 AM Saturday, May 6, 2023, at the Evangelical Covenant Church in Clay Center, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682450822485.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>J. Douglas Toll, 78 died April 20, 2023, in Washington County, KS.&nbsp; He was born on August 16, 1944, in Rockford, IL the son of Roy Leonard and Evelyn Irene (Anderson) Toll.&nbsp; Doug grew up in the Clifton community and was a graduate of Clifton High School.&nbsp; He farmed with his father before taking over the family farm.&nbsp; Doug married Maureen Grant on April 11, 1969.&nbsp; He was a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church in Clay Center and Gideon’s International.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Tage TollSurvivors:Wife: Maureen TollDaughter: Kensey and husband Loren LedebuhrDaughter: Chelsea and husband Matthew VarnerDaughter: Brittany TollSister: Bryn and husband Bill PetersonSister: Marta and husband Tim Belstra8 GrandchildrenMemorial Services:&nbsp; 10:30 AM Saturday, May 6, 2023, at the Evangelical Covenant Church in Clay Center, KS

Doug Toll

Donna J. McKaskle, age 90, of Manhattan, died peacefully at 
Stoneybrook Retirement Community in Manhattan on Sunday April 23rd, 2023, with
 her family by her side.

She was born November 16, 
1932, in Manhattan, Kansas, the daughter of Floyd and Dola (Van Pelt) 
Webster.  Donna graduated from Manhattan High School with the class of 
1950.

Donna worked at Kansas State University in housekeeping for many years.

She
 was married to Everett Lundquist and they later divorced.  She later 
married George McKaskle on October 15, 2000.  George preceded her in 
death.

Donna was a member and past president of the 
Eagles Lodge, was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary 
and a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

She 
volunteered at the Manhattan Senior Center.  She enjoyed playing Bingo, 
bowling in her younger years, the trips to Council Grove Lake, and was a
 K-State Sports, KC Chiefs and Royals fan.

Survivors 
include five children: Rick Lundquist of Phoenix, AZ, Brad Lundquist and
 his wife Alvina of Manhattan, Guy Lundquist and his wife Dena of 
Manhattan, Tammy Schlosser and her husband Jim of Herington, KS, and 
Jimmy Dale McKaskle and his wife Gaye of Leesville, LA; five 
grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Cremation is planned with a family Celebration of her Life at a later date.

Memorial
 contributions may be made to the Manhattan Senior Center.  
Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen 
Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682450728050.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Donna J. McKaskle, age 90, of Manhattan, died peacefully at 
Stoneybrook Retirement Community in Manhattan on Sunday April 23rd, 2023, with
 her family by her side.She was born November 16, 
1932, in Manhattan, Kansas, the daughter of Floyd and Dola (Van Pelt) 
Webster. Donna graduated from Manhattan High School with the class of 
1950.Donna worked at Kansas State University in housekeeping for many years.She
 was married to Everett Lundquist and they later divorced. She later 
married George McKaskle on October 15, 2000. George preceded her in 
death.Donna was a member and past president of the 
Eagles Lodge, was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary 
and a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.She 
volunteered at the Manhattan Senior Center. She enjoyed playing Bingo, 
bowling in her younger years, the trips to Council Grove Lake, and was a
 K-State Sports, KC Chiefs and Royals fan.Survivors 
include five children: Rick Lundquist of Phoenix, AZ, Brad Lundquist and
 his wife Alvina of Manhattan, Guy Lundquist and his wife Dena of 
Manhattan, Tammy Schlosser and her husband Jim of Herington, KS, and 
Jimmy Dale McKaskle and his wife Gaye of Leesville, LA; five 
grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.Cremation is planned with a family Celebration of her Life at a later date.Memorial
 contributions may be made to the Manhattan Senior Center. 
Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen 
Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Donna J. McKaskle

Sunday, June 23rd, 1940-Sunday, April 23rd, 2023

An obituary is pending with Danner Funeral Home.

Click <a href="https://memorials.martinbeckercarlson.com/mary-aron/5034824/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

Sunday, June 23rd, 1940-Sunday, April 23rd, 2023An obituary is pending with Danner Funeral Home.Click <a href="https://memorials.martinbeckercarlson.com/mary-aron/5034824/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

Mary Aron

December 22, 1944
 &nbsp;-&nbsp;
 April 24, 2023

An obituary and services are pending with&nbsp;Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.

December 22, 1944
 &nbsp;-&nbsp;
 April 24, 2023An obituary and services are pending with&nbsp;Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.

Jean Beebe

Douglas Lowell Mitchell&nbsp;was born December
 21, 1967, in Salina, the son of Erwin L and Patricia Mitchell.&nbsp; He 
passed away Saturday, December 18, 2022, of natural causes.

Douglas graduated from Salina Tech HVAC program. He owned and 
operated The AC Guy HVAC service in the Salina area for the past several
 years.

Douglas is survived by his mother, children, sister and brother. &nbsp;

He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents.

Graveside Memorial Services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, April 28, 2023, at the Walsburg Lutheran Cemetery.&nbsp; 

Memorials can be made to the charity of the donors choice and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682368717748.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Douglas Lowell Mitchell&nbsp;was born December
 21, 1967, in Salina, the son of Erwin L and Patricia Mitchell.&nbsp; He 
passed away Saturday, December 18, 2022, of natural causes.Douglas graduated from Salina Tech HVAC program. He owned and 
operated The AC Guy HVAC service in the Salina area for the past several
 years.Douglas is survived by his mother, children, sister and brother. &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents.Graveside Memorial Services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, April 28, 2023, at the Walsburg Lutheran Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials can be made to the charity of the donors choice and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Douglas Mitchell

Saturday, December 5th, 1931-Friday, April 21st, 2023

An obituary is pending with&nbsp;Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel.

Click <a href="https://memorials.martinbeckercarlson.com/melba-shirley/5180781/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682364865898.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Saturday, December 5th, 1931-Friday, April 21st, 2023An obituary is pending with&nbsp;Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel.Click <a href="https://memorials.martinbeckercarlson.com/melba-shirley/5180781/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

Melba Jacqueline 'Jackie' Shirley

Jan (Miller) Crocker, 77, passed away April 23, 2023, of pancreatic cancer at her home in Manhattan.

She
 was born April 10, 1946, in Wamego, KS, the daughter of LeRoy and 
Roberta Miller. She grew up on her family’s farm near Wamego and 
attended Wamego schools. Music and 4-H were favorite activities during 
Jan’s youth. She studied at Kansas State University earning a master’s 
degree in Family and Child Development in 1970. She was a member of Chi 
Omega sorority and served as chapter president. Following college, she 
accepted a position as a Family Life instructor at Stout State 
University, Menomonie, WI.

Jan
 met Jack Crocker while she was a graduate teaching assistant at 
K-State. They were married in Menomonie on January 9, 1971. In 1974, Jan
 and Jack returned to Manhattan where their son Matthew was born. From 
then on, they called Kansas home, living a few years in Lawrence before 
moving to Topeka where Jack began his long-time association with 
Manhattan Buildings, Inc. They returned to Manhattan in 2013.

During
 her 28 years in Topeka, Jan attended Washburn Law School and was an 
auditor for the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission. She volunteered 
at Matt’s schools and in the Topeka community, was a member of Chapter 
DV of the P.E.O. sisterhood, and a docent at Cedar Crest. She trained as
 a Shawnee County KSU Extension Master Gardener, and was a proud member 
of Western Sorosis, a literary club which provided friendships and 
intellectual stimulation. While a member, she wrote and presented five 
scholarly papers.

Jan
 enjoyed reading (especially history), liked newspapers, learning new 
things, and taking walks. She loved working in her garden and tending 
her many container-grown plantings. Birdwatching and nurturing the wide 
variety of birds returning yearly to their backyard feeding stations was
 a vocation for the couple as was creating a sanctuary for butterflies. 
Jan found joy spending time with her grandchildren whether it was 
vacationing in Colorado when they were young or attending their athletic
 events as they grew.

Travel
 was a priority for both Jan and Jack. While they liked Colorado in 
summer, Sarasota, Fl was a top winter destination. Trips abroad included
 many European river cruises and several “Traveling Wildcats” trips with
 other K-Staters. A recent South American ocean cruise that explored 
life along the Amazon River was their favorite.

An
 appreciation of her agricultural heritage remained with Jan as she and 
Jack continued farming land in Riley and Wabaunsee counties that had 
been in her family for decades.

Jan
 was a 50-year member of P.E.O. and a current member of Manhattan’s 
Chapter GU. Playing Mah Jongg on Monday afternoons with a special group 
of GU sisters was a highlight of her week. Jan was a former member of 
the “Friends of McCain” Board of Directors, and she and Jack enjoyed 
attending many special performances at McCain Auditorium. She was also a
 friend and supporter of the KSU Gardens and a volunteer for and 
supporter of Good Shepherd Homecare &amp; Hospice. She was a long-time 
member of the Columbian Theater in Wamego.

Jan
 was preceded in death by her father in 2010, her younger brother, 
Jerry, in 2013 and her mother in 2018, at age 100. She is survived by 
her husband Jack, of 52 years, son Matt (Taira) and grandchildren 
Madeline, Claire, and Jack of Manhattan; a sister, Judy Scammon, of 
Prairie Village, KS, and many cherished friends.

A
 funeral service will be held, Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at 
the Wamego United Methodist Church with burial in the Wamego City 
Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Good Shepherd 
Hospice House and can be left in care of Campanella &amp; Stewart 
Funeral Home, 4370 Salzer Rd, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547. Family will 
greet friends at the Iron Clad (main street Wamego) following services. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682364699149.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jan (Miller) Crocker, 77, passed away April 23, 2023, of pancreatic cancer at her home in Manhattan.She
 was born April 10, 1946, in Wamego, KS, the daughter of LeRoy and 
Roberta Miller. She grew up on her family’s farm near Wamego and 
attended Wamego schools. Music and 4-H were favorite activities during 
Jan’s youth. She studied at Kansas State University earning a master’s 
degree in Family and Child Development in 1970. She was a member of Chi 
Omega sorority and served as chapter president. Following college, she 
accepted a position as a Family Life instructor at Stout State 
University, Menomonie, WI.Jan
 met Jack Crocker while she was a graduate teaching assistant at 
K-State. They were married in Menomonie on January 9, 1971. In 1974, Jan
 and Jack returned to Manhattan where their son Matthew was born. From 
then on, they called Kansas home, living a few years in Lawrence before 
moving to Topeka where Jack began his long-time association with 
Manhattan Buildings, Inc. They returned to Manhattan in 2013.During
 her 28 years in Topeka, Jan attended Washburn Law School and was an 
auditor for the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission. She volunteered 
at Matt’s schools and in the Topeka community, was a member of Chapter 
DV of the P.E.O. sisterhood, and a docent at Cedar Crest. She trained as
 a Shawnee County KSU Extension Master Gardener, and was a proud member 
of Western Sorosis, a literary club which provided friendships and 
intellectual stimulation. While a member, she wrote and presented five 
scholarly papers.Jan
 enjoyed reading (especially history), liked newspapers, learning new 
things, and taking walks. She loved working in her garden and tending 
her many container-grown plantings. Birdwatching and nurturing the wide 
variety of birds returning yearly to their backyard feeding stations was
 a vocation for the couple as was creating a sanctuary for butterflies. 
Jan found joy spending time with her grandchildren whether it was 
vacationing in Colorado when they were young or attending their athletic
 events as they grew.Travel
 was a priority for both Jan and Jack. While they liked Colorado in 
summer, Sarasota, Fl was a top winter destination. Trips abroad included
 many European river cruises and several “Traveling Wildcats” trips with
 other K-Staters. A recent South American ocean cruise that explored 
life along the Amazon River was their favorite.An
 appreciation of her agricultural heritage remained with Jan as she and 
Jack continued farming land in Riley and Wabaunsee counties that had 
been in her family for decades.Jan
 was a 50-year member of P.E.O. and a current member of Manhattan’s 
Chapter GU. Playing Mah Jongg on Monday afternoons with a special group 
of GU sisters was a highlight of her week. Jan was a former member of 
the “Friends of McCain” Board of Directors, and she and Jack enjoyed 
attending many special performances at McCain Auditorium. She was also a
 friend and supporter of the KSU Gardens and a volunteer for and 
supporter of Good Shepherd Homecare &amp; Hospice. She was a long-time 
member of the Columbian Theater in Wamego.Jan
 was preceded in death by her father in 2010, her younger brother, 
Jerry, in 2013 and her mother in 2018, at age 100. She is survived by 
her husband Jack, of 52 years, son Matt (Taira) and grandchildren 
Madeline, Claire, and Jack of Manhattan; a sister, Judy Scammon, of 
Prairie Village, KS, and many cherished friends.A
 funeral service will be held, Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at 
the Wamego United Methodist Church with burial in the Wamego City 
Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Good Shepherd 
Hospice House and can be left in care of Campanella &amp; Stewart 
Funeral Home, 4370 Salzer Rd, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547. Family will 
greet friends at the Iron Clad (main street Wamego) following services.

Jan Crocker

Carol Duerfeldt passed away on April 24, 2023, at 3:43 a.m. at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.

She
 was born on March 27, 1934, in Summerfield, Kansas, the daughter of 
Clyde and Mary Bergen McKee.  She grew up in Pawnee City, Nebraska.  She
 graduated from Pawnee City High School.  Carol then attended Peru State
 Teachers College in Peru, Nebraska and then Kansas State University.

Carol was united in marriage to Ben Duerfeldt on June 27, 1954, in Pawnee City.  Ben preceded her in death on January 12, 2023.

Carol
 taught school in Brock, NE, and then at Bluemont School in Manhattan.  
She was later the secretary to the principal at Manhattan High School.  
She also taught at Trinity Presbyterian Pre-School, and employed at the 
Athletic Department at Kansas State University, The Country Gift Shop 
and at Rod’s Hallmark, and gave private piano lessons to many people 
over the years.  Carol enjoyed being a volunteer at the Via Christi 
Hospital in Manhattan.  She was a member of the First Christian Church 
in Manhattan and also the PEO Chapter GU.

In addition to her husband Ben, she was preceded in death by her daughter Kristin Rogers.

She
 is survived by her two sons: Dan Duerfeldt and his wife Sherry, and 
David Duerfeldt and his wife Lisa; son-in-law Rusty Rogers; eight 
grandchildren: Josh Duerfeldt (Kari), Matt Duerfeldt (Shayla), Luke and 
Jacob Duerfeldt, Kayla Russell (Michael), Nicki Duerfeldt, Adam Bolan 
and Tana Parker (Chad); and nine great-grandchildren: Kori, Addy, Nora, 
Aaron, Mason, Macy, Marshall, Max and Mick.

The family 
will greet friends during a visitation from 5:30 until 7:00p.m. Thursday
 April 27, 2023, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in 
Manhattan.

A graveside service will be held at 9:30a.m. Friday April 28, 2023 at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.

Memorial
 Services will be held at 11:00a.m. Friday April 28, 2023, at the First 
Christian Church, 3001 Grand Mere Parkway in Manhattan.

Memorial
 contributions in memory of Carol are suggested to the First Christian 
Church in Manhattan or the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House Inc.
  Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen 
Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682356136757.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carol Duerfeldt passed away on April 24, 2023, at 3:43 a.m. at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.She
 was born on March 27, 1934, in Summerfield, Kansas, the daughter of 
Clyde and Mary Bergen McKee. She grew up in Pawnee City, Nebraska. She
 graduated from Pawnee City High School. Carol then attended Peru State
 Teachers College in Peru, Nebraska and then Kansas State University.Carol was united in marriage to Ben Duerfeldt on June 27, 1954, in Pawnee City. Ben preceded her in death on January 12, 2023.Carol
 taught school in Brock, NE, and then at Bluemont School in Manhattan. 
She was later the secretary to the principal at Manhattan High School. 
She also taught at Trinity Presbyterian Pre-School, and employed at the 
Athletic Department at Kansas State University, The Country Gift Shop 
and at Rod’s Hallmark, and gave private piano lessons to many people 
over the years. Carol enjoyed being a volunteer at the Via Christi 
Hospital in Manhattan. She was a member of the First Christian Church 
in Manhattan and also the PEO Chapter GU.In addition to her husband Ben, she was preceded in death by her daughter Kristin Rogers.She
 is survived by her two sons: Dan Duerfeldt and his wife Sherry, and 
David Duerfeldt and his wife Lisa; son-in-law Rusty Rogers; eight 
grandchildren: Josh Duerfeldt (Kari), Matt Duerfeldt (Shayla), Luke and 
Jacob Duerfeldt, Kayla Russell (Michael), Nicki Duerfeldt, Adam Bolan 
and Tana Parker (Chad); and nine great-grandchildren: Kori, Addy, Nora, 
Aaron, Mason, Macy, Marshall, Max and Mick.The family 
will greet friends during a visitation from 5:30 until 7:00p.m. Thursday
 April 27, 2023, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in 
Manhattan.A graveside service will be held at 9:30a.m. Friday April 28, 2023 at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.Memorial
 Services will be held at 11:00a.m. Friday April 28, 2023, at the First 
Christian Church, 3001 Grand Mere Parkway in Manhattan.Memorial
 contributions in memory of Carol are suggested to the First Christian 
Church in Manhattan or the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House Inc.
 Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen 
Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Carol Duerfeldt

Gerald M. Brickei, age 84, of Manhattan, died April 20, 2023, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.

A complete obituary is pending with&nbsp;Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682348728602.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Gerald M. Brickei, age 84, of Manhattan, died April 20, 2023, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.He was born on November 13, 1938.A complete obituary is pending with&nbsp;Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.

Gerald M. Brickei

Dorothy M. Brown, 82 of Topeka, passed away on Tuesday, April 18th, 2023. Dorothy was born on November 21st,
 1940, to Donald and Vera (Vaughn) Morfitt in Milford, Kansas. Dorothy 
graduated from Milford High School in 1958. In 1962, Dorothy married 
Mike Brown in Junction City. 

Dorothy loved to be outdoors and was an 
avid gardener. She was a caring mother and loved her family.

Preceding Dorothy in passing are her parents and 
her sister Debbie Sims. She is survived by her son; Greg Brown, sister; 
Carolyn Smith and six nieces.

A Celebration of life will be held at 2pm on Friday, April 28th, at Davidson Funeral Home, 1035 North Kansas Avenue, Topeka. The family will receive guests for visitation starting at 1pm.&nbsp;

Memorial Contributions can be made to The American Alzheimer's Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682341439360.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dorothy M. Brown, 82 of Topeka, passed away on Tuesday, April 18th, 2023. Dorothy was born on November 21st,
 1940, to Donald and Vera (Vaughn) Morfitt in Milford, Kansas. Dorothy 
graduated from Milford High School in 1958. In 1962, Dorothy married 
Mike Brown in Junction City. Dorothy loved to be outdoors and was an 
avid gardener. She was a caring mother and loved her family.Preceding Dorothy in passing are her parents and 
her sister Debbie Sims. She is survived by her son; Greg Brown, sister; 
Carolyn Smith and six nieces.A Celebration of life will be held at 2pm on Friday, April 28th, at Davidson Funeral Home, 1035 North Kansas Avenue, Topeka. The family will receive guests for visitation starting at 1pm.&nbsp;Memorial Contributions can be made to The American Alzheimer's Association.

Dorothy M. Brown

Barbara A. Rawlings, 81, of Junction City, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, January 25, 2023. Cremation will take place. A visitation will take place on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home. A funeral mass will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at St. Xavier Catholic Church. Memorials are suggested to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 218 N Washington St, Junction City, KS 66441 or to a cause of your choice in Barbara's memory. She was born on May 31, 1941, in Nevada, Missouri, to Gay D. and Anne G. (Childers) Barton. Barbara worked as a civil servant on Fort Riley for 30 years as a contracting specialist. She was an active member in the community. She volunteered at Geary Community Hospital frequently after retirement and was a member of the PEO sisterhood. Barbara was also a member of the gardening club, pilots club, and bridge club. She married Bill Hall in 1961. Their union brought two children, Carrie and Lorrie. In 1985, she married Milton Rawlings, they were married almost 40 years. Barbara was a dedicated wife, mother, grandma, and friend. She loved being around her family and friends, truly enjoyed life to the fullest. Barbara is survived by her three daughters, Carrie Hall (John) VanAntwerp of Wichita, Kansas, Lorrie Hall Valentich of Dallas, Texas, Regina (Mike) Oxford of Lawrence, Kansas; six grandchildren, Cassandra (Jason) Childs of Park City, Kansas, Melissa VanAntwerp of Wichita, Kansas, Amanda Valentich of Dallas, Texas, Levi (Amanda) Oxford of Oak Creek, Wisconsin, Sandina Oxford of Lawrence, Kansas, Michela (Jesse) Pacheco of Overbrook, Kansas; seven great grandchildren; one brother, David (Marilyn) Barton of San Antonio, Texas; and nephew, Nathan (Shannon) Barton of New York. She was preceded in death by her parents and her loving spouse, Milton.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674755289201.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barbara A. Rawlings, 81, of Junction City, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, January 25, 2023. Cremation will take place. A visitation will take place on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home. A funeral mass will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at St. Xavier Catholic Church. Memorials are suggested to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 218 N Washington St, Junction City, KS 66441 or to a cause of your choice in Barbara's memory. She was born on May 31, 1941, in Nevada, Missouri, to Gay D. and Anne G. (Childers) Barton. Barbara worked as a civil servant on Fort Riley for 30 years as a contracting specialist. She was an active member in the community. She volunteered at Geary Community Hospital frequently after retirement and was a member of the PEO sisterhood. Barbara was also a member of the gardening club, pilots club, and bridge club. She married Bill Hall in 1961. Their union brought two children, Carrie and Lorrie. In 1985, she married Milton Rawlings, they were married almost 40 years. Barbara was a dedicated wife, mother, grandma, and friend. She loved being around her family and friends, truly enjoyed life to the fullest. Barbara is survived by her three daughters, Carrie Hall (John) VanAntwerp of Wichita, Kansas, Lorrie Hall Valentich of Dallas, Texas, Regina (Mike) Oxford of Lawrence, Kansas; six grandchildren, Cassandra (Jason) Childs of Park City, Kansas, Melissa VanAntwerp of Wichita, Kansas, Amanda Valentich of Dallas, Texas, Levi (Amanda) Oxford of Oak Creek, Wisconsin, Sandina Oxford of Lawrence, Kansas, Michela (Jesse) Pacheco of Overbrook, Kansas; seven great grandchildren; one brother, David (Marilyn) Barton of San Antonio, Texas; and nephew, Nathan (Shannon) Barton of New York. She was preceded in death by her parents and her loving spouse, Milton.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Barbara A. Rawlings

Lois Elaine Kelly, 86, of Topeka, passed away April 21, 2023. She was
 born February 7, 1937, in Manhattan, KS, the daughter of Arthur and 
Doris (Lundin) Allen.

She was a graduate of Topeka High
 School in 1955 and Washburn University in 1959. During her senior years
 at both Topeka High and Washburn University she was crowned homecoming 
queen. She was also a member of Alpha Phi during her time at Washburn 
University.

Lois married Les G. Kelly in Topeka, KS on 
August 1, 1959. She started her working career in elementary education 
teaching at Dawson and Stout. Lois then left her teaching career to be a
 stay-at-home mom and later in life worked for the March of Dimes and 
Stormont-Vail Health.

Lois is preceded in death by her 
parents, Arthur &amp; Doris; husband, Les; and daughter, Kari Kelly. 
Lois is survived by daughters, Kim Terhune (Randy) of Maple Hill and 
Konni Flynn (Mike) of Topeka; sister, Arlys Tarwater of Overland Park, 
KS; grandchildren, Andy Terhune (Jayna), A.J. Terhune (Sarah), Alyson 
Simons (Scott), MaKenzi Tyler (Derek), and Chloe Holt; and great 
grandchildren, Hadley &amp; Tessa Terhune, Jack &amp; Reid Simons, 
Stella &amp; Huxley Tyler, and she was so thrilled of the recent 
announcement for the arrival of her 7th great-grandchild expected to be 
born in September of this year.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka High School Historical Society, 800 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS 66612-1619.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682266759295.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lois Elaine Kelly, 86, of Topeka, passed away April 21, 2023. She was
 born February 7, 1937, in Manhattan, KS, the daughter of Arthur and 
Doris (Lundin) Allen.She was a graduate of Topeka High
 School in 1955 and Washburn University in 1959. During her senior years
 at both Topeka High and Washburn University she was crowned homecoming 
queen. She was also a member of Alpha Phi during her time at Washburn 
University.Lois married Les G. Kelly in Topeka, KS on 
August 1, 1959. She started her working career in elementary education 
teaching at Dawson and Stout. Lois then left her teaching career to be a
 stay-at-home mom and later in life worked for the March of Dimes and 
Stormont-Vail Health.Lois is preceded in death by her 
parents, Arthur &amp; Doris; husband, Les; and daughter, Kari Kelly. 
Lois is survived by daughters, Kim Terhune (Randy) of Maple Hill and 
Konni Flynn (Mike) of Topeka; sister, Arlys Tarwater of Overland Park, 
KS; grandchildren, Andy Terhune (Jayna), A.J. Terhune (Sarah), Alyson 
Simons (Scott), MaKenzi Tyler (Derek), and Chloe Holt; and great 
grandchildren, Hadley &amp; Tessa Terhune, Jack &amp; Reid Simons, 
Stella &amp; Huxley Tyler, and she was so thrilled of the recent 
announcement for the arrival of her 7th great-grandchild expected to be 
born in September of this year.A private family ceremony will be held.Memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka High School Historical Society, 800 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS 66612-1619.

Lois Elaine Kelly

William Patrick Thomas Benedict “Pat” McCourt, proud Irishman, passed away on April 21st, 2023, at Community Hospital Onaga.&nbsp; He was 70 years old.

Pat was born February 4th, 1953, to John and Katie McCourt in Topeka, Kansas.&nbsp; He lived in Topeka until he was 5, when he moved to Atchison.&nbsp; Pat was educated in Atchison Catholic schools and told many memorable stories about his time at Maur Hill Academy.&nbsp; He
 spent his formative years hunting and trapping with his dog, Shorty, 
and causing general mischief with his two brothers, Owen and Paul.

When
 he was 18, Pat met the love of his life, Marilyn, at a New Year's Eve 
party, and they were inseparable for the rest of his life.&nbsp; They
 eloped on March 18th, 1977 (since the courthouse was closed on St. 
Patrick’s Day), and their devotion to each other was truly unmatched.

Pat graduated from University of Kansas at the top of his class in Pharmacy, and went to work for Blaylock Drug Store in Topeka.&nbsp; While he was there, he was approached to work in a small town in northeastern Kansas called Onaga.&nbsp; Pat and Marilyn decided to go for a year to try it out.&nbsp; They ended up staying over 40 years and dedicating their professional life to the Onaga community.&nbsp; Pat
 was a brilliant pharmacist and business man, who enjoyed compounding 
medicine from scratch, researching new developments, and his customers, 
whom he saw as family. Any visit to the Onaga Pharmacy was met not only 
with knowledge sharing but also with Pat’s unrivaled witty remarks.&nbsp; 

Pat and Marilyn had four daughters together.&nbsp; Pat
 was such a fun father, always orchestrating creative projects for the 
girls (usually involving dry ice or fireworks), never missing a ball 
game or event, and leading them on adventures around the country.&nbsp; Whenever
 anyone asked him if he wished he had a boy, he indignantly replied that
 he couldn't imagine a better life than the one he had, and he taught 
his daughters to be strong and independent.

&nbsp;Pat was a die-hard KU fan, and had season tickets to support his Jayhawks for years.&nbsp; One of his favorite memories was being with Marilyn at the 1988 National Championship game.&nbsp; He also loved the Chiefs and was delighted with their recent Super Bowl wins.&nbsp;&nbsp; He enjoyed building computers and learning about new technologies.&nbsp; He was an avid coin collector, a watch enthusiast, a history buff, and a truly masterful gift-giver.&nbsp; He loved nothing more than playing against (and generally beating) family and friends in darts.&nbsp; He also enjoyed poker nights with his friends.

&nbsp;Pat
 loved life, and always reminded us that it's important to take time to 
enjoy every sunset, because you will never see another one exactly like 
it.&nbsp; 

&nbsp;He was preceded in death by his dad, John, his mom, Katie, and his little brother, Paul.&nbsp; 

&nbsp;His wife Marilyn survives of the home.&nbsp; Other
 survivors include his children Maggie, Kerry, Katie, and Alison, his 
son-in-laws, Carlhos, Lyle, and Mark, his grandchildren Isabel, Paul, 
Rose, Pierce, and Juliet, his older brother Owen, and many beloved 
in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

&nbsp;On
 Wednesday, April 26th, there will be a Rosary at 6:00 pm at St. Vincent
 De Paul Catholic Church in Onaga, followed by visitation with family 
and friends from 6:30 to 8:00 pm.&nbsp; Mass
 of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on April 27th at St. Vincent De
 Paul Catholic Church, followed by burial at the Onaga Cemetery and 
lunch at the Onaga Community Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

&nbsp;Memorials are suggested to the Onaga Community Center or Onaga Historical Society.&nbsp; They may be sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, PO Box 312, Onaga KS 66521.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682266462727.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>William Patrick Thomas Benedict “Pat” McCourt, proud Irishman, passed away on April 21st, 2023, at Community Hospital Onaga.&nbsp; He was 70 years old.Pat was born February 4th, 1953, to John and Katie McCourt in Topeka, Kansas.&nbsp; He lived in Topeka until he was 5, when he moved to Atchison.&nbsp; Pat was educated in Atchison Catholic schools and told many memorable stories about his time at Maur Hill Academy.&nbsp; He
 spent his formative years hunting and trapping with his dog, Shorty, 
and causing general mischief with his two brothers, Owen and Paul.When
 he was 18, Pat met the love of his life, Marilyn, at a New Year's Eve 
party, and they were inseparable for the rest of his life.&nbsp; They
 eloped on March 18th, 1977 (since the courthouse was closed on St. 
Patrick’s Day), and their devotion to each other was truly unmatched.Pat graduated from University of Kansas at the top of his class in Pharmacy, and went to work for Blaylock Drug Store in Topeka.&nbsp; While he was there, he was approached to work in a small town in northeastern Kansas called Onaga.&nbsp; Pat and Marilyn decided to go for a year to try it out.&nbsp; They ended up staying over 40 years and dedicating their professional life to the Onaga community.&nbsp; Pat
 was a brilliant pharmacist and business man, who enjoyed compounding 
medicine from scratch, researching new developments, and his customers, 
whom he saw as family. Any visit to the Onaga Pharmacy was met not only 
with knowledge sharing but also with Pat’s unrivaled witty remarks.&nbsp; Pat and Marilyn had four daughters together.&nbsp; Pat
 was such a fun father, always orchestrating creative projects for the 
girls (usually involving dry ice or fireworks), never missing a ball 
game or event, and leading them on adventures around the country.&nbsp; Whenever
 anyone asked him if he wished he had a boy, he indignantly replied that
 he couldn't imagine a better life than the one he had, and he taught 
his daughters to be strong and independent.&nbsp;Pat was a die-hard KU fan, and had season tickets to support his Jayhawks for years.&nbsp; One of his favorite memories was being with Marilyn at the 1988 National Championship game.&nbsp; He also loved the Chiefs and was delighted with their recent Super Bowl wins.&nbsp;&nbsp; He enjoyed building computers and learning about new technologies.&nbsp; He was an avid coin collector, a watch enthusiast, a history buff, and a truly masterful gift-giver.&nbsp; He loved nothing more than playing against (and generally beating) family and friends in darts.&nbsp; He also enjoyed poker nights with his friends.&nbsp;Pat
 loved life, and always reminded us that it's important to take time to 
enjoy every sunset, because you will never see another one exactly like 
it.&nbsp; &nbsp;He was preceded in death by his dad, John, his mom, Katie, and his little brother, Paul.&nbsp; &nbsp;His wife Marilyn survives of the home.&nbsp; Other
 survivors include his children Maggie, Kerry, Katie, and Alison, his 
son-in-laws, Carlhos, Lyle, and Mark, his grandchildren Isabel, Paul, 
Rose, Pierce, and Juliet, his older brother Owen, and many beloved 
in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.&nbsp;On
 Wednesday, April 26th, there will be a Rosary at 6:00 pm at St. Vincent
 De Paul Catholic Church in Onaga, followed by visitation with family 
and friends from 6:30 to 8:00 pm.&nbsp; Mass
 of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on April 27th at St. Vincent De
 Paul Catholic Church, followed by burial at the Onaga Cemetery and 
lunch at the Onaga Community Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Memorials are suggested to the Onaga Community Center or Onaga Historical Society.&nbsp; They may be sent in care of the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, PO Box 312, Onaga KS 66521.

 Pat McCourt

Gerald M. Brickei, age 84, of Manhattan, died April 20, 2023 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.

Gerald M. Brickei, age 84, of Manhattan, died April 20, 2023 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.He was born on November 13, 1938.A complete obituary is pending with&nbsp;Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.

Ernie Drew “Mr. K-State” Barrett, a loving husband, father and 
grandfather who enjoyed a basketball career with the Boston Celtics and 
dedicated more than seven decades of his life to Kansas State 
University, died Friday, April 21, 2023, surrounded by his family in 
Manhattan, Kansas. Barrett was 93.

Barrett was born on 
August 27, 1929, in Pratt, Kansas, although he called Wellington his 
hometown. The son of Ernie Walker and Ruby Kate, his father worked for 
the Santa Fe Railroad.

Although Barrett played football
 and basketball, basketball was his passion. Barrett honed his 
basketball skills in the school gymnasium under Coaches Cade Suran and 
John Floyd and on the goal his father put up for him in their backyard.

Barrett
 led Wellington High School to a 21-4 record and its lone state 
basketball championship in 1947. An All-State basketball player, Barrett
 credited Floyd for much of his success as a basketball player. “He was 
the person who taught me the fundamentals and the one who really helped 
me to improve my shooting,” Barrett said. “I probably wouldn’t have made
 it as a college player if Coach Floyd hadn’t worked with me on my 
outside shooting.”

Although his high school basketball 
conquests elicited interest from Phog Allen and Henry Iba, Barrett chose
 to play at K-State for Jack Gardner and Tex Winter, both now in the 
Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, during a legendary career in which he 
captained the 1950-51 team that opened one of America’s most remarkable 
arenas, Ahearn Field House. Barrett earned 1951 Consensus Second-Team 
All-American and helped Kansas State to the Big 7 Conference title 
before staging a remarkable NCAA Tournament run. Following wins over No.
 12 Arizona, No. 11 BYU and No. 24 Oklahoma A&amp;M, the Wildcats earned
 a berth in the 1951 National Championship Game and finished with a 25-4
 overall record.

“I was very fortunate to have those 
coaches as a freshman,” Barrett said. “They had me practice every day, 
and Coach Winter even had me play against him. He taught me to be 
quick.”

Barrett joined the Kansas Beta Chapter of Sigma
 Alpha Epsilon his last year of school. He met and later wed Bonnie 
Frommer on October 24, 1951. They were married for 72 years. Bonnie 
served as the steady rock by Barrett’s side.

Known for 
his silky-smooth shooting touch that helped him to average double 
figures in points as both a junior and senior, Barrett was named the 
Most Valuable Player in the East/West All-Star Game in Chicago following
 his senior season. Barrett credited Gardner and Winter for instilling 
discipline and preparing him for a professional basketball career. 
Later, Barrett was named to K-State’s All-Century Team and was one of 
the first three Wildcats to have their jersey retired.However, Barrett 
was a dedicated student as well, serving as a member of the Blue Key 
honorary. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical 
education in 1951.

Barrett was the No. 7 overall pick 
in the 1951 NBA Draft by head coach Red Auerbach and the Boston Celtics.
 However, he put his professional basketball career on hold for two 
years. As a member of the K-State ROTC, he served a two-year obligation 
in the Air Force and stayed as a lieutenant until 1953. After his 
service, he played one year for the Celtics, then sat out one year while
 pursuing a coaching career, then he rejoined the Celtics by the request
 of Auerbach, sharing the same backcourt as Bob Cousy. Barrett, a 
6-foot-3 guard/forward, scored 641 points and added 343 rebounds and 229
 assists over his NBA career. He also played against the Harlem 
Globetrotters. He remained close friends with Cousy after his retirement
 from the Celtics.

Barrett returned to Manhattan, 
Kansas, as assistant alumni secretary in 1955, and he earned his 
master’s degree in journalism in 1956. He became assistant coach under 
Winter in 1959 while also being in charge of Wildcat booster activities.
 In 1961, Barrett joined the athletics staff as assistant athletic 
director in charge of fundraising and promotions.

Famous
 for his powerful handshakes, ever-present smile and engaging 
personality, Barrett spearheaded fundraising campaigns for KSU Stadium, 
the athletic dormitory, synthetic turf on the football field (raising 
$300,000 in a two-month period) and the R.V. Christian Track and Field 
Complex.

K-State President James McCain bestowed upon 
Barrett the title of “Mr. K-State” and Barrett was promoted to K-State’s
 fifth athletic director in May 1969, becoming the first Kansas-born 
athlete to lead K-State’s athletic program, and he gained tremendous 
popularity during his seven years in that position.

“It was one of
 the most outstanding positions I had in the world of intercollegiate 
athletics,” Barrett said. “I enjoyed the opportunity to make decisions 
that needed to be made.”

He led fund-raising efforts 
for a number of projects, including continued enhancements to KSU 
Stadium, the construction of the Vanier Football Complex, and K-State 
athletic dormitory. Barrett also began laying the fund-raising 
foundation for what would eventually be Bramlage Coliseum. Among his 
other contributions as athletic director, Barrett hired Hall of Fame 
basketball coach Jack Hartman.

Barrett entered the 
private sector in 1976 to become vice president of marketing for Chief 
Drilling in Wichita, but returned to K-State in 1988 as fund-raising 
consultant in the athletic department’s portion of the Essential Edge 
Campaign, a university-wide project with a goal of raising $100 million,
 including $15 million for the athletics department.

In
 1991, Barrett resumed full-time duties at K-State as the athletic 
department’s director of development. Over the next 16 years he played a
 key role in reshaping the landscape of K-State’s facilities and helped 
secure funds for the Dev Nelson Press Box, the expansion of KSU Stadium,
 the indoor football facility, the Academic Learning Center, Tointon 
Family Stadium, the R.V. Christian Track, Colbert Hills Golf Course and 
Vanier Football Complex.

A believer in a firm handshake
 and handwritten notes, Barrett received many honors during his 
athletics career and is a member of both the state of Kansas Sports Hall
 of Fame and the Kansas State Athletics Hall of Fame. In 1999, Kansas 
State erected a statue of “Mr. K-State” in front of Bramlage Coliseum as
 a testament to his contributions to Wildcat athletics. K-State retired 
his No. 22 jersey at Bramlage Coliseum in 2005. He retired as Director 
of Development on June 30, 2007, ending nearly six decades of service to
 the university as a student-athlete, coach and administrator. In 2014, 
Barrett was presented with the Outstanding Alumni Award by The Blue Key 
Honor Society.

Barrett’s passions included fishing in 
his free time and enjoyed time in his Tuttle Creek Lake cabin with 
family and friends during spring and summer weekends.

The Barretts
 remained avid supporters of K-State and its athletic programs during 
retirement. They attended K-State football and basketball home games 
every year through the 2022-23 season.

Barrett is 
preceded in death by his parents and his son, Duane. Barrett is survived
 by wife Bonnie of Manhattan, son Brad of Manhattan, and grandson Ryan 
and wife Lauren (and a great-grandchild on the way) of Wichita.

A
 Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 27 at 
Bramlage Coliseum with a reception to follow in the Shamrock Zone. The 
service and reception are open to the public. A private interment will 
be held at Sunrise Cemetery.

The family would like to 
thank the caring staff at Via Christi Village and Interim HealthCare and
 Hospice. Funeral home arrangements by Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral 
Home. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to a 
memorial for Barrett that has been established at the Kansas State 
University Foundation with donations benefitting the Ernie and Bonnie 
Barrett Family Men’s Basketball Scholarship. 

Contributions may be sent 
to: KSU Foundation, 1800 Kimball Ave., Ste 200, Manhattan, KS 66502, 
please indicate fund M47447. To make a gift online, go to 
http://ksufoundation.org/give/barrett.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682266186277.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ernie Drew “Mr. K-State” Barrett, a loving husband, father and 
grandfather who enjoyed a basketball career with the Boston Celtics and 
dedicated more than seven decades of his life to Kansas State 
University, died Friday, April 21, 2023, surrounded by his family in 
Manhattan, Kansas. Barrett was 93.Barrett was born on 
August 27, 1929, in Pratt, Kansas, although he called Wellington his 
hometown. The son of Ernie Walker and Ruby Kate, his father worked for 
the Santa Fe Railroad.Although Barrett played football
 and basketball, basketball was his passion. Barrett honed his 
basketball skills in the school gymnasium under Coaches Cade Suran and 
John Floyd and on the goal his father put up for him in their backyard.Barrett
 led Wellington High School to a 21-4 record and its lone state 
basketball championship in 1947. An All-State basketball player, Barrett
 credited Floyd for much of his success as a basketball player. “He was 
the person who taught me the fundamentals and the one who really helped 
me to improve my shooting,” Barrett said. “I probably wouldn’t have made
 it as a college player if Coach Floyd hadn’t worked with me on my 
outside shooting.”Although his high school basketball 
conquests elicited interest from Phog Allen and Henry Iba, Barrett chose
 to play at K-State for Jack Gardner and Tex Winter, both now in the 
Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, during a legendary career in which he 
captained the 1950-51 team that opened one of America’s most remarkable 
arenas, Ahearn Field House. Barrett earned 1951 Consensus Second-Team 
All-American and helped Kansas State to the Big 7 Conference title 
before staging a remarkable NCAA Tournament run. Following wins over No.
 12 Arizona, No. 11 BYU and No. 24 Oklahoma A&amp;M, the Wildcats earned
 a berth in the 1951 National Championship Game and finished with a 25-4
 overall record.“I was very fortunate to have those 
coaches as a freshman,” Barrett said. “They had me practice every day, 
and Coach Winter even had me play against him. He taught me to be 
quick.”Barrett joined the Kansas Beta Chapter of Sigma
 Alpha Epsilon his last year of school. He met and later wed Bonnie 
Frommer on October 24, 1951. They were married for 72 years. Bonnie 
served as the steady rock by Barrett’s side.Known for 
his silky-smooth shooting touch that helped him to average double 
figures in points as both a junior and senior, Barrett was named the 
Most Valuable Player in the East/West All-Star Game in Chicago following
 his senior season. Barrett credited Gardner and Winter for instilling 
discipline and preparing him for a professional basketball career. 
Later, Barrett was named to K-State’s All-Century Team and was one of 
the first three Wildcats to have their jersey retired.However, Barrett 
was a dedicated student as well, serving as a member of the Blue Key 
honorary. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical 
education in 1951.Barrett was the No. 7 overall pick 
in the 1951 NBA Draft by head coach Red Auerbach and the Boston Celtics.
 However, he put his professional basketball career on hold for two 
years. As a member of the K-State ROTC, he served a two-year obligation 
in the Air Force and stayed as a lieutenant until 1953. After his 
service, he played one year for the Celtics, then sat out one year while
 pursuing a coaching career, then he rejoined the Celtics by the request
 of Auerbach, sharing the same backcourt as Bob Cousy. Barrett, a 
6-foot-3 guard/forward, scored 641 points and added 343 rebounds and 229
 assists over his NBA career. He also played against the Harlem 
Globetrotters. He remained close friends with Cousy after his retirement
 from the Celtics.Barrett returned to Manhattan, 
Kansas, as assistant alumni secretary in 1955, and he earned his 
master’s degree in journalism in 1956. He became assistant coach under 
Winter in 1959 while also being in charge of Wildcat booster activities.
 In 1961, Barrett joined the athletics staff as assistant athletic 
director in charge of fundraising and promotions.Famous
 for his powerful handshakes, ever-present smile and engaging 
personality, Barrett spearheaded fundraising campaigns for KSU Stadium, 
the athletic dormitory, synthetic turf on the football field (raising 
$300,000 in a two-month period) and the R.V. Christian Track and Field 
Complex.K-State President James McCain bestowed upon 
Barrett the title of “Mr. K-State” and Barrett was promoted to K-State’s
 fifth athletic director in May 1969, becoming the first Kansas-born 
athlete to lead K-State’s athletic program, and he gained tremendous 
popularity during his seven years in that position.“It was one of
 the most outstanding positions I had in the world of intercollegiate 
athletics,” Barrett said. “I enjoyed the opportunity to make decisions 
that needed to be made.”He led fund-raising efforts 
for a number of projects, including continued enhancements to KSU 
Stadium, the construction of the Vanier Football Complex, and K-State 
athletic dormitory. Barrett also began laying the fund-raising 
foundation for what would eventually be Bramlage Coliseum. Among his 
other contributions as athletic director, Barrett hired Hall of Fame 
basketball coach Jack Hartman.Barrett entered the 
private sector in 1976 to become vice president of marketing for Chief 
Drilling in Wichita, but returned to K-State in 1988 as fund-raising 
consultant in the athletic department’s portion of the Essential Edge 
Campaign, a university-wide project with a goal of raising $100 million,
 including $15 million for the athletics department.In
 1991, Barrett resumed full-time duties at K-State as the athletic 
department’s director of development. Over the next 16 years he played a
 key role in reshaping the landscape of K-State’s facilities and helped 
secure funds for the Dev Nelson Press Box, the expansion of KSU Stadium,
 the indoor football facility, the Academic Learning Center, Tointon 
Family Stadium, the R.V. Christian Track, Colbert Hills Golf Course and 
Vanier Football Complex.A believer in a firm handshake
 and handwritten notes, Barrett received many honors during his 
athletics career and is a member of both the state of Kansas Sports Hall
 of Fame and the Kansas State Athletics Hall of Fame. In 1999, Kansas 
State erected a statue of “Mr. K-State” in front of Bramlage Coliseum as
 a testament to his contributions to Wildcat athletics. K-State retired 
his No. 22 jersey at Bramlage Coliseum in 2005. He retired as Director 
of Development on June 30, 2007, ending nearly six decades of service to
 the university as a student-athlete, coach and administrator. In 2014, 
Barrett was presented with the Outstanding Alumni Award by The Blue Key 
Honor Society.Barrett’s passions included fishing in 
his free time and enjoyed time in his Tuttle Creek Lake cabin with 
family and friends during spring and summer weekends.The Barretts
 remained avid supporters of K-State and its athletic programs during 
retirement. They attended K-State football and basketball home games 
every year through the 2022-23 season.Barrett is 
preceded in death by his parents and his son, Duane. Barrett is survived
 by wife Bonnie of Manhattan, son Brad of Manhattan, and grandson Ryan 
and wife Lauren (and a great-grandchild on the way) of Wichita.A
 Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 27 at 
Bramlage Coliseum with a reception to follow in the Shamrock Zone. The 
service and reception are open to the public. A private interment will 
be held at Sunrise Cemetery.The family would like to 
thank the caring staff at Via Christi Village and Interim HealthCare and
 Hospice. Funeral home arrangements by Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral 
Home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to a 
memorial for Barrett that has been established at the Kansas State 
University Foundation with donations benefitting the Ernie and Bonnie 
Barrett Family Men’s Basketball Scholarship. Contributions may be sent 
to: KSU Foundation, 1800 Kimball Ave., Ste 200, Manhattan, KS 66502, 
please indicate fund M47447. To make a gift online, go to 
http://ksufoundation.org/give/barrett.

Ernie Drew 'Mr. K-State' Barrett

Patrick Alan Decker, 58, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away on March 27, 2023.&nbsp;

Patrick was born January 5, 1965, to James and Barbara Decker in 
Topeka, Kansas. After graduating from Shawnee Heights High School, in 
1983, he went on to complete a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife 
Management at Kansas State University. He also received a Master’s in 
Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.&nbsp;

Patrick was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying all types of hunting, 
fishing, golfing, camping, and telling stories around a campfire. He was
 a devoted fireman in Manhattan for 6.5 years. He recently retired from 
Prairie Band Casino. &nbsp;

He is survived by his loving mother, Barbara Decker, and three siblings: Cathy Robertson, Mike Decker, and John Decker.&nbsp;

Patrick was preceded in death by his father, James Decker.

The family will receive friends from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, Monday, April 
17, 2023, at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, where there will be a memorial
 service at 6:30pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ducks Unlimited, sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave. Topeka, KS 66603.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682266025711.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Patrick Alan Decker, 58, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away on March 27, 2023.&nbsp;Patrick was born January 5, 1965, to James and Barbara Decker in 
Topeka, Kansas. After graduating from Shawnee Heights High School, in 
1983, he went on to complete a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife 
Management at Kansas State University. He also received a Master’s in 
Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.&nbsp;Patrick was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying all types of hunting, 
fishing, golfing, camping, and telling stories around a campfire. He was
 a devoted fireman in Manhattan for 6.5 years. He recently retired from 
Prairie Band Casino. &nbsp;He is survived by his loving mother, Barbara Decker, and three siblings: Cathy Robertson, Mike Decker, and John Decker.&nbsp;Patrick was preceded in death by his father, James Decker.The family will receive friends from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, Monday, April 
17, 2023, at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, where there will be a memorial
 service at 6:30pm.Memorial contributions may be made to Ducks Unlimited, sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave. Topeka, KS 66603.

Patrick Alan Decker

Jesse V. Downs, 99, of Salina, passed away, Sunday, 
March 5, 2023, at Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp; He was born in 
Industry, Kansas, to Jesse C. and Verna F. (Loader) Downs, on January 
15, ,1924.&nbsp; He graduated Salina High School in 1942 and joined the Army 
Airforce, that same year.&nbsp; He served for four years during World War 
II.&nbsp; On November 3, 1946, Jesse married Margaret Elizabeth Burk, in 
Wichita, Kansas.&nbsp; They were married and inseparable for 74 years. &nbsp;

He is survived by his children, Cheryl Utech (James), of Manhattan, 
Stephen Downs (Rosalie), of Colorado Springs, and Greg Downs (Eileen), 
of Hutchinson; one sister, Doris Tuttle, of Colorado Springs; 
grandchildren, Kimberly Splawn (Robert), Melissa Kendall (Jeremy), Jesse
 A. Downs (Dana), Nancy Erickson (Lewis), James M. Utech (Lora), David 
Green (Kathleen); 14 great-grandchildren.

Graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Monday, May 1, 2023, in Roselawn Memorial Park, Salina. &nbsp;

Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, in care of Ryan Mortuary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682185781639.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jesse V. Downs, 99, of Salina, passed away, Sunday, 
March 5, 2023, at Salina Regional Health Center.&nbsp; He was born in 
Industry, Kansas, to Jesse C. and Verna F. (Loader) Downs, on January 
15, ,1924.&nbsp; He graduated Salina High School in 1942 and joined the Army 
Airforce, that same year.&nbsp; He served for four years during World War 
II.&nbsp; On November 3, 1946, Jesse married Margaret Elizabeth Burk, in 
Wichita, Kansas.&nbsp; They were married and inseparable for 74 years. &nbsp;He is survived by his children, Cheryl Utech (James), of Manhattan, 
Stephen Downs (Rosalie), of Colorado Springs, and Greg Downs (Eileen), 
of Hutchinson; one sister, Doris Tuttle, of Colorado Springs; 
grandchildren, Kimberly Splawn (Robert), Melissa Kendall (Jeremy), Jesse
 A. Downs (Dana), Nancy Erickson (Lewis), James M. Utech (Lora), David 
Green (Kathleen); 14 great-grandchildren.Graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Monday, May 1, 2023, in Roselawn Memorial Park, Salina. &nbsp;Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, in care of Ryan Mortuary.

Jesse V. Downs

Ho Thi “Sam” Stevens, 79, of Manhattan, passed away the morning of 
Sunday, April 16th, with Family by her side.  Her smile and laugh will 
forever be remembered.

Sam was born in Vietnam on March
 26, 1944, moved to Kansas in the early '70s. She was a member of Seven 
Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan; surviving are three sons Andrew 
(Drew) Stevens and his wife, Ann of Topeka, KS;  Alan Stevens and his 
wife Kristian, of Manhattan and Anthony Stevens, also of Manhattan. 
Including 6 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild she absolutely adored.

A
 Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Thursday, 
May 4th, at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan, with Fr. Ryan 
McCandless officiating the service.

In lieu of flowers,
 memorial contributions may be directed to the church or the Donors 
Choice.  The family is working with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral 
Home on funeral arrangements.

Ho Thi “Sam” Stevens, 79, of Manhattan, passed away the morning of 
Sunday, April 16th, with Family by her side. Her smile and laugh will 
forever be remembered.Sam was born in Vietnam on March
 26, 1944, moved to Kansas in the early '70s. She was a member of Seven 
Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan; surviving are three sons Andrew 
(Drew) Stevens and his wife, Ann of Topeka, KS; Alan Stevens and his 
wife Kristian, of Manhattan and Anthony Stevens, also of Manhattan. 
Including 6 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild she absolutely adored.A
 Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Thursday, 
May 4th, at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan, with Fr. Ryan 
McCandless officiating the service.In lieu of flowers,
 memorial contributions may be directed to the church or the Donors 
Choice. The family is working with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral 
Home on funeral arrangements.

Ho Thi 'Sam' Stevens

Joyce A. Horton, age 78, of Manhattan, died April 19, 2023, at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House in Manhattan.

She was born November 1, 1944, in Topeka, the daughter of Willis Myron and Helen E. (Connole) Horton.

Joyce worked in the kitchen at Geary Community Hospital in the 1960’s.

She enjoyed bowling and playing Bingo for many years.

Survivors
 include her sister Shirley Hemme and her husband Bob of Manhattan; many
 nieces and nephews; and great nieces and great nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her father in 2011, her mother in 2014, and her brother Don Horton in 2016.

Graveside
 services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, April 29th, at the Mt. 
Hope Cemetery in Topeka, with Ron Brown officiating.

Memorial
 contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Homecare &amp; Hospice, Inc.
  Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen 
Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682175752278.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joyce A. Horton, age 78, of Manhattan, died April 19, 2023, at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House in Manhattan.She was born November 1, 1944, in Topeka, the daughter of Willis Myron and Helen E. (Connole) Horton.Joyce worked in the kitchen at Geary Community Hospital in the 1960’s.She enjoyed bowling and playing Bingo for many years.Survivors
 include her sister Shirley Hemme and her husband Bob of Manhattan; many
 nieces and nephews; and great nieces and great nephews.Joyce was preceded in death by her father in 2011, her mother in 2014, and her brother Don Horton in 2016.Graveside
 services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, April 29th, at the Mt. 
Hope Cemetery in Topeka, with Ron Brown officiating.Memorial
 contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Homecare &amp; Hospice, Inc.
 Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen 
Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Joyce A. Horton

Thomas Dale Bonewitz, age 78, died Thursday, March 30, 2023, at his home in Deming, New Mexico with his sons by his side. He died one week after being diagnosed with Stage IV cancer.&nbsp;

Tom was born October 30, 1944, in Ottawa, Kansas. He grew up in Manhattan, Kansas and graduated from Manhattan High School in 1962. He served in the US Navy from 1962-1968 and was assigned to the USS Sperry and USS Pawcatuck during his service. He returned to Manhattan and graduated from Kansas State University a short time later. Tom was an Insurance Agent for most of his career.&nbsp;

He is survived by his two sons, Alan Bonewitz of Liberty, Missouri and Adam Bonewitz (Jessica) of Wamego, Kansas. Tom adored his five grandchildren, Brianna, Riley, Oliver, William, and Lucy. He was also very fond of two special girls he would see during his summer trips to Kansas, Taryn and Laynee Shepard of Manhattan, Kansas. Tom is also survived by a sister, Connie Ulmer (John) of Topeka, a brother, Don Bonewitz (Nancy) of Manhattan, a brother-in-law Curt Hanson of Loveland, CO, and his aunt, Ruth Eversmeyer of Mt Juliet, TN. He was known as “Uncle Tom” to three nieces and two nephews as well as all their children (and their children as well). He is also survived by many cousins and friends. Tom loved animals and left behind his two small dogs, Rudy and Suzie.&nbsp;

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Cora Jane Bonewitz and his sister, Bonnie Bonewitz Hanson.&nbsp;

He had millions of hobbies throughout his life and especially loved the outdoors. He bought an RV after selling his home and property in Kansas in 2008 and would travel the Southern United States every winter every year since then. He would return to Kansas each summer and would park his RV at a friend’s home north of Manhattan, KS. He met a ton of great friends throughout these travels.&nbsp;

Tom was very satisfied with his life at the time of his death and was confident he would have eternal salvation. He remarked in the months prior to his death that he was so thrilled he had found his latest hobby (rock-hounding in the mountains of New Mexico) that he could devote so much passion to. He made beautiful creations with the rocks he had collected. He was very close with many of his friends he had made in the past few winters in Deming, NM.&nbsp;

A celebration of life will be held at Faith Manhattan Church (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/ShdMspCzj29ucwue7">1921 Barnes Rd, Manhattan, KS</a>) on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at 10am. Tom’s ashes have already been laid to rest at the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery in Manhattan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682122104308.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas Dale Bonewitz, age 78, died Thursday, March 30, 2023, at his home in Deming, New Mexico with his sons by his side. He died one week after being diagnosed with Stage IV cancer.&nbsp;Tom was born October 30, 1944, in Ottawa, Kansas. He grew up in Manhattan, Kansas and graduated from Manhattan High School in 1962. He served in the US Navy from 1962-1968 and was assigned to the USS Sperry and USS Pawcatuck during his service. He returned to Manhattan and graduated from Kansas State University a short time later. Tom was an Insurance Agent for most of his career.&nbsp;He is survived by his two sons, Alan Bonewitz of Liberty, Missouri and Adam Bonewitz (Jessica) of Wamego, Kansas. Tom adored his five grandchildren, Brianna, Riley, Oliver, William, and Lucy. He was also very fond of two special girls he would see during his summer trips to Kansas, Taryn and Laynee Shepard of Manhattan, Kansas. Tom is also survived by a sister, Connie Ulmer (John) of Topeka, a brother, Don Bonewitz (Nancy) of Manhattan, a brother-in-law Curt Hanson of Loveland, CO, and his aunt, Ruth Eversmeyer of Mt Juliet, TN. He was known as “Uncle Tom” to three nieces and two nephews as well as all their children (and their children as well). He is also survived by many cousins and friends. Tom loved animals and left behind his two small dogs, Rudy and Suzie.&nbsp;Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Cora Jane Bonewitz and his sister, Bonnie Bonewitz Hanson.&nbsp;He had millions of hobbies throughout his life and especially loved the outdoors. He bought an RV after selling his home and property in Kansas in 2008 and would travel the Southern United States every winter every year since then. He would return to Kansas each summer and would park his RV at a friend’s home north of Manhattan, KS. He met a ton of great friends throughout these travels.&nbsp;Tom was very satisfied with his life at the time of his death and was confident he would have eternal salvation. He remarked in the months prior to his death that he was so thrilled he had found his latest hobby (rock-hounding in the mountains of New Mexico) that he could devote so much passion to. He made beautiful creations with the rocks he had collected. He was very close with many of his friends he had made in the past few winters in Deming, NM.&nbsp;A celebration of life will be held at Faith Manhattan Church (<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/ShdMspCzj29ucwue7">1921 Barnes Rd, Manhattan, KS</a>) on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at 10am. Tom’s ashes have already been laid to rest at the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery in Manhattan.

Thomas 'Tom' Dale Bonewitz

Arlon Lee Meek, age 71, passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at his home in Manhattan, Kansas.

Arlon
 was born on February 1, 1952, in Clay Center, Kansas, to Archie and Osa 
Meek. He attended grade school through high school in Clay Center. After
 high school, he attended Cloud County Community College and then 
transferred to Kansas State. After graduating from Kansas State, he was 
hired as the Procurement Officer for the Chemistry/Biochemistry 
Department. Arlon worked for Kansas State his entire career, working 
there for 32 years. He retired in 2010.   Arlon had many friends 
throughout his life that he made from being at K-State and through his 
music.

Arlon is survived by his longtime 
girlfriend/partner Betsy Blair. He is also survived by his only son 
Jeremy Meek and his wife Tammy of Manhattan, KS, sister Sharon Graham in
 Prescott, AZ, niece (Washington State) and nephews in Arizona. He is 
preceded in death by his parents Archie and Osa Meek, and his only 
grand-daughter Savanna Elaine Meek.

Arlon's first love 
was music and he carried that love throughout his entire life. He 
started learning to play the guitar at a young age and formed his first 
band in eighth grade named the Moondogs. Arlon was a talented musician, a
 master guitar player and a versatile singer. He played with bands 
including the MoJo's, Hickory Wind, Evensong, Country Joys, and the 
Nightriders. In the '70s, he was a member of The Timber Creek Band. In 
the '80s, his band was called The Cruisers. The Cruisers played all over 
Kansas and their songs were even played on the oldies station. In the 
1990s, he had a duo group called The Sidekicks.

His love 
for music never stopped, and even after the band days and the duo were 
done, he couldn't stay away. He enjoyed going to jams with all his 
musician friends in different towns near Manhattan. Recently, he was in 
the group Denims and Lace. He enjoyed playing with them and he met many 
people throughout the years and stayed in contact with life-long 
friends.

When he was not playing music, he enjoyed his 
cat, doing yard work and sitting in his backyard enjoying the weather. 
Arlon also enjoyed old movies and westerns. Arlon was a great writer and
 wrote many short stories and in his younger years was an avid book 
reader. He enjoyed going to car shows and entering his own vehicles into
 the contests. Arlon actually won multiple trophies for his 1983 Bronco 
and his 1979 Pontiac Grand Am.

Visitation will be Tuesday April 25, 2023, at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan from 6:00-7:30 pm.

Arlon's
 Funeral Service will be Wednesday April 26, 2023, at 10:00 am at the 
Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel in Manhattan. Graveside services
 will be held following the funeral at the Greenwood Cemetery in Clay 
Center, Kansas at 1:30p.m.

The family requests in lieu 
of flowers that memorial contributions can be made to the American SIDS 
Institute (www.sids.org) or The CAT Association of Topeka 
https://www.topekacat.org/. Contributions may be left in care of the 
Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, 
Kansas 66502. Online condolences may be left for the family through the 
funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111912516.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Arlon Lee Meek, age 71, passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at his home in Manhattan, Kansas. Arlon
 was born on February 1, 1952, in Clay Center, Kansas, to Archie and Osa 
Meek. He attended grade school through high school in Clay Center. After
 high school, he attended Cloud County Community College and then 
transferred to Kansas State. After graduating from Kansas State, he was 
hired as the Procurement Officer for the Chemistry/Biochemistry 
Department. Arlon worked for Kansas State his entire career, working 
there for 32 years. He retired in 2010. Arlon had many friends 
throughout his life that he made from being at K-State and through his 
music.Arlon is survived by his longtime 
girlfriend/partner Betsy Blair. He is also survived by his only son 
Jeremy Meek and his wife Tammy of Manhattan, KS, sister Sharon Graham in
 Prescott, AZ, niece (Washington State) and nephews in Arizona. He is 
preceded in death by his parents Archie and Osa Meek, and his only 
grand-daughter Savanna Elaine Meek.Arlon's first love 
was music and he carried that love throughout his entire life. He 
started learning to play the guitar at a young age and formed his first 
band in eighth grade named the Moondogs. Arlon was a talented musician, a
 master guitar player and a versatile singer. He played with bands 
including the MoJo's, Hickory Wind, Evensong, Country Joys, and the 
Nightriders. In the '70s, he was a member of The Timber Creek Band. In 
the '80s, his band was called The Cruisers. The Cruisers played all over 
Kansas and their songs were even played on the oldies station. In the 
1990s, he had a duo group called The Sidekicks.His love 
for music never stopped, and even after the band days and the duo were 
done, he couldn't stay away. He enjoyed going to jams with all his 
musician friends in different towns near Manhattan. Recently, he was in 
the group Denims and Lace. He enjoyed playing with them and he met many 
people throughout the years and stayed in contact with life-long 
friends.When he was not playing music, he enjoyed his 
cat, doing yard work and sitting in his backyard enjoying the weather. 
Arlon also enjoyed old movies and westerns. Arlon was a great writer and
 wrote many short stories and in his younger years was an avid book 
reader. He enjoyed going to car shows and entering his own vehicles into
 the contests. Arlon actually won multiple trophies for his 1983 Bronco 
and his 1979 Pontiac Grand Am.Visitation will be Tuesday April 25, 2023, at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan from 6:00-7:30 pm.Arlon's
 Funeral Service will be Wednesday April 26, 2023, at 10:00 am at the 
Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel in Manhattan. Graveside services
 will be held following the funeral at the Greenwood Cemetery in Clay 
Center, Kansas at 1:30p.m.The family requests in lieu 
of flowers that memorial contributions can be made to the American SIDS 
Institute (www.sids.org) or The CAT Association of Topeka 
https://www.topekacat.org/. Contributions may be left in care of the 
Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, 
Kansas 66502. Online condolences may be left for the family through the 
funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com

Arlon Lee Meek

We are sad to announce the passing of Charles Earl “Chuck” Bussing.  
Chuck passed away surrounded by his family at the age of 90 on April 19,
 2023.

Chuck was born in Del Norte, Colorado, on 
October 30, 1932.  He graduated high school in Fredrick Colorado in 
1950, completed his BA in Geography from University of Northern Colorado
 in 1958, MA in Geography from University of Colorado in 1961, and his 
PhD in Geography from the University of Nebraska in 1964.  He taught at 
the Kansas State University from 1964 to 1998.  He did a sabbatical at 
the University of Auckland in NZ 1970.

During his 
career at KSU, he had many distinguished accomplishments including 
mentoring a great group of PhD students who went on to have illustrious 
careers in their own right.  Some of his more notable accomplishments 
were being on Faculty Senate for 4 terms, Chair of the Faculty salary 
and fringe benefit subcommittee, Chair of the International Studies 
Committee, Director of International Programs, and Program Associate for
 the International Title XII Strengthening Grant from 1979 – 1990.

Chuck
 was one who loved to get together and be a part of, and a leader of 
groups that talked about important topics.   In service of that, he was 
the organizer for 7 conferences sponsored by the American Association of
 Geographers, the Tri-University Center for Latin American Studies, 
International Studies, and the Farming Systems Research Group.

Chuck
 spent his life gathering experiences, stories, information, friends – I
 don’t say acquaintances, because acquaintances always became friends – 
and especially friends who have that twinkle of playfulness and 
inquisitiveness.  Titles didn’t matter, money didn’t matter, what really
 mattered was his passion for learning and collaborating/conspiring to 
enjoy a good story and learn more.

Chuck is survived by
 his loving wife Sandy, his daughter Heather (John) and her boys Alex 
&amp; Holden, and his son Greg (Tracy) and his sons Austin (Caroline), 
Anderson, &amp; Avery (Sarah).  He was pre-deceased by his parents, 
Warren &amp; Mildred Bussing &amp; his brother Dick Bussing.

There
 will be a Celebration of Life for Chuck at Meadowlark Hills Event 
Center, 2121 Meadowlark Road, Manhattan, from 2 – 4 PM on Wednesday 
April 26, 2023.

In
 lieu of flowers of gifts, you can donate to the Konza Prairie in memory
 of Chuck <a href="HTTPS://giving.ksufoundation.org/campaigns/17447/donations/new">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111495993.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We are sad to announce the passing of Charles Earl “Chuck” Bussing. 
Chuck passed away surrounded by his family at the age of 90 on April 19,
 2023.Chuck was born in Del Norte, Colorado, on 
October 30, 1932. He graduated high school in Fredrick Colorado in 
1950, completed his BA in Geography from University of Northern Colorado
 in 1958, MA in Geography from University of Colorado in 1961, and his 
PhD in Geography from the University of Nebraska in 1964. He taught at 
the Kansas State University from 1964 to 1998. He did a sabbatical at 
the University of Auckland in NZ 1970.During his 
career at KSU, he had many distinguished accomplishments including 
mentoring a great group of PhD students who went on to have illustrious 
careers in their own right. Some of his more notable accomplishments 
were being on Faculty Senate for 4 terms, Chair of the Faculty salary 
and fringe benefit subcommittee, Chair of the International Studies 
Committee, Director of International Programs, and Program Associate for
 the International Title XII Strengthening Grant from 1979 – 1990.Chuck
 was one who loved to get together and be a part of, and a leader of 
groups that talked about important topics. In service of that, he was 
the organizer for 7 conferences sponsored by the American Association of
 Geographers, the Tri-University Center for Latin American Studies, 
International Studies, and the Farming Systems Research Group.Chuck
 spent his life gathering experiences, stories, information, friends – I
 don’t say acquaintances, because acquaintances always became friends – 
and especially friends who have that twinkle of playfulness and 
inquisitiveness. Titles didn’t matter, money didn’t matter, what really
 mattered was his passion for learning and collaborating/conspiring to 
enjoy a good story and learn more.Chuck is survived by
 his loving wife Sandy, his daughter Heather (John) and her boys Alex 
&amp; Holden, and his son Greg (Tracy) and his sons Austin (Caroline), 
Anderson, &amp; Avery (Sarah). He was pre-deceased by his parents, 
Warren &amp; Mildred Bussing &amp; his brother Dick Bussing.There
 will be a Celebration of Life for Chuck at Meadowlark Hills Event 
Center, 2121 Meadowlark Road, Manhattan, from 2 – 4 PM on Wednesday 
April 26, 2023.In
 lieu of flowers of gifts, you can donate to the Konza Prairie in memory
 of Chuck <a href="HTTPS://giving.ksufoundation.org/campaigns/17447/donations/new">HERE</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Charles Earl 'Chuck' Bussing

Charles Richard Russell 76 of Beloit, Kansas, beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather died April 17, 2023. He was born December 31, 1946 to Carl H. and Dorothy A. (Anderson) Russell in the Concordia Hospital, Concordia, Kansas the 9th&nbsp;of 10 children.

He attended Courtland Elementary School and graduated from Courtland High School Class of 1965. He attended Beloit Vo Tech, Beloit, Kansas before being drafted into the Army in May 1967. He served in Fort Still in Oklahoma until he was transferred to Vietnam. He returned home in July 1968. He then went to work for Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District. In addition to that he farmed.

He married his High School sweetheart, Olive June Dunstan in Formoso, Kansas June 5, 1966. They are the parents of Lori, Jodi and Larry.

In later years he joined his wife in retail in Superior, Nebraska and then the two of them worked as sales reps covering the entire state of Nebraska until retiring in Beloit, Kansas.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, children Lori and Mike Stenson, Courtland, Kansas; Jodi and Adam Mosher, Beloit, Kansas and Larry Russell, Beloit, Kansas; eight grandchildren: Brittany Stenson, Cassidy Stenson, Leslie (Dan) Robinson, Riley Stenson, John (Sabrina) Mosher, Jared Mosher, Jeremy Mosher, Jayden Mosher; five great grandchildren: Khonor Craig, Maverick Mosher, Owen Mosher, Everleigh Mosher and Nash Mosher. He is also survived by his sisters and brothers Beverly Sothers, Courtland, Kansas; Maxine (Jan) Fredrickson, Quinter, Kansas; Penny (Don) True, Council, Grove, Kansas; Kenny (Mary) Russell, Abilene, Kansas; sisters-in-law Verlee Russell, Fort Collins, Colorado; Joanne Russell, Scandia, Kansas; and Kay Russell, Wamego, Kansas; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and numerous friends.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111154505.jpeg" alt="Charles Russell" />
 <figcaption>Charles Russell</figcaption>
 </figure>Charles Richard Russell 76 of Beloit, Kansas, beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather died April 17, 2023. He was born December 31, 1946 to Carl H. and Dorothy A. (Anderson) Russell in the Concordia Hospital, Concordia, Kansas the 9th&nbsp;of 10 children.He attended Courtland Elementary School and graduated from Courtland High School Class of 1965. He attended Beloit Vo Tech, Beloit, Kansas before being drafted into the Army in May 1967. He served in Fort Still in Oklahoma until he was transferred to Vietnam. He returned home in July 1968. He then went to work for Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District. In addition to that he farmed.He married his High School sweetheart, Olive June Dunstan in Formoso, Kansas June 5, 1966. They are the parents of Lori, Jodi and Larry.In later years he joined his wife in retail in Superior, Nebraska and then the two of them worked as sales reps covering the entire state of Nebraska until retiring in Beloit, Kansas.He is survived by his wife of 56 years, children Lori and Mike Stenson, Courtland, Kansas; Jodi and Adam Mosher, Beloit, Kansas and Larry Russell, Beloit, Kansas; eight grandchildren: Brittany Stenson, Cassidy Stenson, Leslie (Dan) Robinson, Riley Stenson, John (Sabrina) Mosher, Jared Mosher, Jeremy Mosher, Jayden Mosher; five great grandchildren: Khonor Craig, Maverick Mosher, Owen Mosher, Everleigh Mosher and Nash Mosher. He is also survived by his sisters and brothers Beverly Sothers, Courtland, Kansas; Maxine (Jan) Fredrickson, Quinter, Kansas; Penny (Don) True, Council, Grove, Kansas; Kenny (Mary) Russell, Abilene, Kansas; sisters-in-law Verlee Russell, Fort Collins, Colorado; Joanne Russell, Scandia, Kansas; and Kay Russell, Wamego, Kansas; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and numerous friends.Memorial services held on Thursday, April 27, 2023 at 1 pm from the Megrue-Price Funeral Home in Superior, Nebraska with Pastor Brian Faust officiating.Music was recordings of “Just A Closer Walk With Thee,” “I Hope You Dance,” and “Tumbling Tumbleweed.”Book signing visitation held on April 26, 2023 from 1 pm to 8 pm with the family present from 5-7 to greet friends.Pallbearers are his grandchildren Brittany Stenson, Cassidy Stenson, Leslie Stenson, Riley Stenson, John Mosher, Jared Mosher, Jeremy Mosher and Jayden Mosher. Honorary Pallbearers are his great grandchildren Khonor Craig, Nash Mosher, Everleigh Mosher, Maverick Mosher, and Owen Mosher.Inurnment with Military Honors at 3:30 pm in the Elmwood Cemetery at Beloit, Kansas with Kristi Arasmith officiating.Memorials to Charles R. Russell memorial fund to be determined at a later timeCondolences may be sent to Megrue-Price Funeral Home, 750 N Commercial, Superior, Nebraska 68978 or in care of www.pricefuneralhomes.com.Megrue-Price Funeral Home of Superior, Nebraska was in charge of the arrangements.

Obituaries