
Colleen Marie Budenbender of St. George, Kansas, passed away on her 98th birthday, September 3, 2025, at Via Christi Village in Manhattan surrounded by the love of her family. Colleen was born on September 3, 1927, in Joplin, Missouri, to parents Jesse and Twila (Stribling) Dodson. She married Franklyn Cline Burrow in 1944 in Galena, Kansas; he preceded her in death in 1973.
Two children came from this union: Haddie and Frank. Colleen married Everett Budenbender in 1975 in Wamego; he preceded her in death in 2007. Colleen was known for her unwavering dedication to her family and community. She served as a general worker at the Aggieville Grocery in Manhattan, which was operated by her late husband's father, until its closure. However, her most cherished role was that of a lifelong homemaker. With a nurturing spirit, she provided delicious meals and a warm home, where she lovingly cared for her children and pets.
Colleen held various interests that enriched the lives of those around her. She was a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Pottawatomie County Blackjack 4-H Youth Club, and the St. George Family, Community, and Education organization. Her creativity flourished through quilting, ceramics, and painting. Colleen had a special bond with her daughter, whom she taught to quilt. She had a green thumb and loved planting flowers, involving her children in gardening activities, and making plum jelly from the fruits of their plum trees. Even after turning 98, she continued to embroider until an unfortunate accident left her with a broken arm.
Colleen's affection for animals was evident in her care for the family's pets, both cats and dogs, as well as her endearing practice of feeding local deer and watching hummingbirds. Colleen is survived by her children, Haddie Kiernan and Frank Burrow (Rita); and her grandchildren, Sean, Jarrod, Megan, Aaron, and Matthew. She was preceded in death by her parents.
In honor of Colleen's service to others, the family suggests memorial contributions to "Interim Hospice", "Pottawatomie County 4-H Youth Development", and "Friends of the KSU Gardens." Online donations to “Friends of the KSU Gardens” can be made at the following link: https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/17396/donations/new. Please make checks payable to the charity of your choice, and those may be sent in care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 48, Wamego, Kansas, 66547.
Colleen's family will greet friends during a visitation on September 11, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego, Kansas. A funeral service will be held on September 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home in Wamego, Kansas. Burial will follow the funeral service at 3:00 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery in Coffeyville, Kansas. Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.