Kathy Diane Peters-Dooty, 58, of Salina, passed, away Saturday, December 12, 2020. She was born September 11, 1962 in Salina, KS. She graduated from South High class of ’80.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Retha (Hileman) Knox; brother, Kevin Knox.

Survivors include her children, Christopher Peters, Robert Dooty, Crystal Clayson (Aaron); 3

Grandchildren; sister, Sherri Hill; brothers, Gary Knox, Ron Knox, Steven Knox.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, 11:00 AM, January 24, 2021 at Salina Seventh-day Adventist Church, 834 N. 11th Street, Salina.

The family in care of Roselawn Mortuary, PO Box 2322, Salina, 67402.

For online condolences contact Roselawn at

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609981625501.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kathy Diane Peters-Dooty, 58, of Salina, passed, away Saturday, December 12, 2020. She was born September 11, 1962 in Salina, KS. She graduated from South High class of ’80.She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Retha (Hileman) Knox; brother, Kevin Knox.Survivors include her children, Christopher Peters, Robert Dooty, Crystal Clayson (Aaron); 3Grandchildren; sister, Sherri Hill; brothers, Gary Knox, Ron Knox, Steven Knox.Funeral services will be held Sunday, 11:00 AM, January 24, 2021 at Salina Seventh-day Adventist Church, 834 N. 11th Street, Salina.Memorials may be made toThe family in care of Roselawn Mortuary, PO Box 2322, Salina, 67402.For online condolences contact Roselawn atwww.roselawnsalina.com

Kathy Diane Peters-Dooty

Former Agra resident Rex D. Burger passed away Dec. 31, 2020, in Glendale, AZ at the age of 93.

Survivors include his wife Connie of the home; 3 sons: Rodney &amp; Randy of Glendale, AZ &amp; Roger of Lake Havasu City, AZ &amp; his brother Terry of Overland Park, KS.

A graveside service will be held Sat. Jan 9, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. in the Agra Cemetery with Pastor Blake Stanwood officiating.&nbsp; The service will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page.

Online condolences: <a href="http://www.olliffboeve.com">www.olliffboeve.com</a>

Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609961484565.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Former Agra resident Rex D. Burger passed away Dec. 31, 2020, in Glendale, AZ at the age of 93.Survivors include his wife Connie of the home; 3 sons: Rodney &amp; Randy of Glendale, AZ &amp; Roger of Lake Havasu City, AZ &amp; his brother Terry of Overland Park, KS.A graveside service will be held Sat. Jan 9, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. in the Agra Cemetery with Pastor Blake Stanwood officiating.&nbsp; The service will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page.Online condolences: <a href="http://www.olliffboeve.com">www.olliffboeve.com</a>Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. &nbsp;

Rex D. Burger

Joe Dean Hansen, son of Curtis Hansen and Blanche (Novak) Hansen was the eldest child &nbsp;born June 12 1940 at rural Belleville, Kansas and passed away on January 4, 2021 at Republic County Hospital ISB, (Long Term Care), Belleville, Kansas at the age of 80.

Joe was a hard working, conscientious farm laborer, working along side his mother milking cows, tending to the chickens, gardening and other chores.&nbsp; He also assisted his father and brothers with the care of the livestock and crops. Joe

Attended one room country schools and completed 8th&nbsp;grade at Grace Hill School in 1954.

After the death of his parents, Joe left the family farm home to reside at the Long Term Care Unit of Republic County Hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp; He enjoyed every minute of his stay there and developed close friendships with the residents and staff.&nbsp;

Joe was a member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church, Belleville, KS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Blanche Hansen, niece, Cortney Hansen Hatesohl, niece in law, Tara Hansen.

He is survived by one sister, Joyce Hansen of Belleville, KS, four brothers, Larry (Sally) Hansen of Alliance, NE, Billy Hansen of Belleville, KS, Dennis (Melba) Hansen of Belleville, KS, Randy (Marcia) Hansen of Belleville, KS, sister in law, Merry Jo Hansen of Belleville, KS, nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.

Private family funeral service will be held Saturday, January 9, 2021 at Bachelor-Surber Memorial Chapel, Belleville, KS, conducted by, Deacon Steve Heiman.

Interment will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, rural Belleville, KS.

Memorials may be given to Republic Co Hospital ISB (Long Term Care) or Meadowlark Hospice.

Friends may call on Friday January 8, 2020 from 1 PM to 8 PM at Bachelor-Surber Funeral Home, Belleville, KS,

Online condolences and information at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bachelor-surber.com/">www.bachelor-surber.com</a>

Bachelor-Surber Funeral Home, Belleville, KS in charge of arrangements.

Joe Dean Hansen, son of Curtis Hansen and Blanche (Novak) Hansen was the eldest child &nbsp;born June 12 1940 at rural Belleville, Kansas and passed away on January 4, 2021 at Republic County Hospital ISB, (Long Term Care), Belleville, Kansas at the age of 80.Joe was a hard working, conscientious farm laborer, working along side his mother milking cows, tending to the chickens, gardening and other chores.&nbsp; He also assisted his father and brothers with the care of the livestock and crops. JoeAttended one room country schools and completed 8th&nbsp;grade at Grace Hill School in 1954.After the death of his parents, Joe left the family farm home to reside at the Long Term Care Unit of Republic County Hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp; He enjoyed every minute of his stay there and developed close friendships with the residents and staff.&nbsp;Joe was a member of St. Edward’s Catholic Church, Belleville, KS.He was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Blanche Hansen, niece, Cortney Hansen Hatesohl, niece in law, Tara Hansen.He is survived by one sister, Joyce Hansen of Belleville, KS, four brothers, Larry (Sally) Hansen of Alliance, NE, Billy Hansen of Belleville, KS, Dennis (Melba) Hansen of Belleville, KS, Randy (Marcia) Hansen of Belleville, KS, sister in law, Merry Jo Hansen of Belleville, KS, nieces and nephews, cousins and many friends.Private family funeral service will be held Saturday, January 9, 2021 at Bachelor-Surber Memorial Chapel, Belleville, KS, conducted by, Deacon Steve Heiman.Interment will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, rural Belleville, KS.Memorials may be given to Republic Co Hospital ISB (Long Term Care) or Meadowlark Hospice.Friends may call on Friday January 8, 2020 from 1 PM to 8 PM at Bachelor-Surber Funeral Home, Belleville, KS,Online condolences and information at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bachelor-surber.com/">www.bachelor-surber.com</a>Bachelor-Surber Funeral Home, Belleville, KS in charge of arrangements.

Joe Dean Hansen

Jordan Nicole (Walker) Johnson, 29, of Peculiar, MO and formerly of McPherson, KS, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 30, 2020, at AdventHealth, Shawnee Mission, KS. She was a workers’ compensation coordinator for Mid-America Orthopedics in Overland Park, KS. Jordan was born on June 15, 1991, in McPherson, KS, the daughter of Jon Richard “Rick” and Dana Renee (Spoon) Walker. She graduated from McPherson High School in 2009 and received a bachelor’s degree from Pittsburg State University in 2013. On September 16, 2017, Jordan was united in marriage to Willie Miles Johnson at the Deer Creek Golf Club in Overland Park, KS. Survivors include: her husband, Willie of the home; baby daughter, Maya Kay of the home; parents, Rick Walker of McPherson, KS and Dana &amp; Terry Williams of McPherson, KS; grandparents, Fred &amp; Karen Spoon of McPherson, KS; a brother, Justin Walker and wife, Caitlin, of Galva, KS; niece &amp; nephew, Karlie &amp; Jaxson Walker of Galva, KS; brother &amp; sisters-in-law, Rufus Johnson, Jr., Carolyn Johnson, and Tenesha Johnson, all of Kansas City, KS; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by grandfather, Bon Walker, grandmother, Billie Walker, and her father &amp; mother-in-law, Rufus, Sr. and Sandra Johnson. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Friday, January 8, 2021, at Countryside Covenant Church, McPherson. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, January 9, at Countryside Covenant Church with Rev. Abby Jones and Rev. Jim Eaton officiating. Burial will follow at McPherson Cemetery. Social distancing and masks will be required. A livestream link of the funeral service will be available closer to service time on the funeral home’s website. A memorial service will also be held in Kansas City at a later date. Memorial donations may be given to the Maya Kay Johnson Fund (make checks payable to Willie Johnson) in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460. Or, donations may be given through the GoFundMe account under the name of Willie Johnson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609907169713.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jordan Nicole (Walker) Johnson, 29, of Peculiar, MO and formerly of McPherson, KS, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 30, 2020, at AdventHealth, Shawnee Mission, KS. She was a workers’ compensation coordinator for Mid-America Orthopedics in Overland Park, KS. Jordan was born on June 15, 1991, in McPherson, KS, the daughter of Jon Richard “Rick” and Dana Renee (Spoon) Walker. She graduated from McPherson High School in 2009 and received a bachelor’s degree from Pittsburg State University in 2013. On September 16, 2017, Jordan was united in marriage to Willie Miles Johnson at the Deer Creek Golf Club in Overland Park, KS. Survivors include: her husband, Willie of the home; baby daughter, Maya Kay of the home; parents, Rick Walker of McPherson, KS and Dana &amp; Terry Williams of McPherson, KS; grandparents, Fred &amp; Karen Spoon of McPherson, KS; a brother, Justin Walker and wife, Caitlin, of Galva, KS; niece &amp; nephew, Karlie &amp; Jaxson Walker of Galva, KS; brother &amp; sisters-in-law, Rufus Johnson, Jr., Carolyn Johnson, and Tenesha Johnson, all of Kansas City, KS; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by grandfather, Bon Walker, grandmother, Billie Walker, and her father &amp; mother-in-law, Rufus, Sr. and Sandra Johnson. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Friday, January 8, 2021, at Countryside Covenant Church, McPherson. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, January 9, at Countryside Covenant Church with Rev. Abby Jones and Rev. Jim Eaton officiating. Burial will follow at McPherson Cemetery. Social distancing and masks will be required. A livestream link of the funeral service will be available closer to service time on the funeral home’s website. A memorial service will also be held in Kansas City at a later date. Memorial donations may be given to the Maya Kay Johnson Fund (make checks payable to Willie Johnson) in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460. Or, donations may be given through the GoFundMe account under the name of Willie Johnson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jordan Nicole (Walker) Johnson

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

Daughter: Karen Smith and husband Robert of Manhattan, KS

Son: Terry Thurlow and wife Robin of Wakefield, KS

Son: Lynn Thurlow and wife Kathryn of Lindsborg, KS

Son: Randy Thurlow and wife Coleen of Wakefield, KS

9 Grandchildren and 5 Great-grandchildren

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

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

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

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

William Dean Thurlow

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609904948345.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Leota Fessenden passed away January 3, 2021 at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson, KS at the age of 99.She was born on October 28, 1921 in Clifton, KS, the youngest child of Charles and Catherine (Straub) Wurtz.She married Dale Fessenden on February 14, 1953 in Concordia, KS.&nbsp; To this union they had two sons, Charles and Craig.She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Cecelia Swaim, Daphna Wilson, Lyola Martens, Delbert Wurtz, Leighton Wurtz and infant brother Donald Wurtz.She is survived by her husband, Dale Fessenden, sons Charles (Jennifer) Fessenden of Almena, KS and Craig (Kay) Fessenden of Houston, TX.&nbsp; Grandchildren Cory (Jennifer) Fessenden, Cathryn (Jeremy) Horn and Regan (Paul) Schupmann.&nbsp; Six great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.Cremation is planned with a memorial service at a later date due to Covid.

Leota Fessenden

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609904745500.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Virginia Belle Marshall Starkweather, age 99, died January 2, 2021 at Eddy Village Green in Cohoes, New York.&nbsp; She was born in Hennessey, Oklahoma on October 11, 1921, and moved with her family to Clay Center at the age of two.&nbsp; Her parents were Porter and Ernestine (Mall) Marshall.&nbsp; She attended Clay Center schools and graduated from CCCHS in 1939.&nbsp; She graduated from the University of Kansas in 1943 with a BFA degree majoring in commercial art.&nbsp; She was a member of Chi Omega Sorority.&nbsp; She was greatly interested in architecture and landscape design.&nbsp; She returned home to work as a bookkeeper at Marshalls, Inc.On May 18, 1944 she married First Lieutenant Lloyd A. Starkweather, who had returned from the European Theatre of operations in World War II.&nbsp; That first year they resided in Louisiana, Texas, and Nebraska before making their home in Clay Center.&nbsp; They had four children:&nbsp; Mary Lou, JoAnne, John Marshall and Lee Arnold.Virginia’s top priority was her home and family.&nbsp; She was a member of the United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women and served on local, district, conference and jurisdiction levels of both.&nbsp; She was president of the local unit of UMW and was the first woman Lay Leader of the Clay Center United Methodist Church.&nbsp; She was the first woman to be Chairperson of the Kansas West Conference Council on Ministries.&nbsp; She was Dean of the West Gulf Regional School of Christian Mission.&nbsp; She served on the Wesley Task Force, and was a trustee of the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund.&nbsp; She also served as Secretary of Kansas Church Women United.Locally Virginia served as president of the board of the Clay Center Carnegie Library and helped organize the Friends of the Library.&nbsp; She was president of Chapter AS of P.E.O., the NEA Study Club, Red Cross Volunteers and Lioness Club.&nbsp; She served on the Board of Directors for the Clay County Children’s Trust.&nbsp; Her hobby was landscape gardening.&nbsp;Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Lloyd, her daughter, Mary Lou Slaughter, and her step-granddaughter, Kristen Kennedy.&nbsp; She is survived by her daughter JoAnne Chapman of Delmar, New York, sons John (Midori) of Woodland Hills and Lee (Teri) of Laguna Niguel, California, eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.&nbsp; She is also survived by a son-in-law, Douglas Slaughter and wife, Karolyn, two step-grandsons, and six step-great-grandchildren.&nbsp; She is also survived by Lorenzo Cugniet Elizondo of Santiago, Chile, American Field Service student, who lived with the family 1969-70.&nbsp;Memorials are suggested to Clay County Children’s Trust in care of Neill Schwensen Rook Funeral Home.Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery.

Virginia Belle Marshall Starkweather

Cremation has taken place &amp; there are no services scheduled. 

Memorials may be given to Solomon Valley Hospice.

Raymond FrasierFebruary 03, 1935 - January 04, 2021Cremation has taken place &amp; there are no services scheduled. Memorials may be given to Solomon Valley Hospice.

Raymond Frasier

Celebration of life services will take place &amp; be announced at a later date. 

Cremation has taken place &amp; there will be no visitation.

Judith StuddardAugust 30, 1947 - January 04, 2021Celebration of life services will take place &amp; be announced at a later date. Cremation has taken place &amp; there will be no visitation.

Judith Studdard

Graveside memorial services will take place at 11 AM Saturday, January 23 at Elmwood Cemetery in Beloit. 

Cremation has taken place &amp; there will be no visitation. 

Memorials may be given to the Lincoln Senior Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609904281038.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Margie AhlversMarch 02, 1924 - January 03, 2021Graveside memorial services will take place at 11 AM Saturday, January 23 at Elmwood Cemetery in Beloit. Cremation has taken place &amp; there will be no visitation. Memorials may be given to the Lincoln Senior Center.

Margie Ahlvers

Family-only memorial services will be at 2 PM Saturday, January 9 at St. John's Catholic Church &amp; will be livestreamed. 

Friends may sign the register book from 9 AM to 5 PM Friday, January 8 at the Roberts Family Funeral Home. 

Per her wishes, cremation has taken place. 

Memorials may be given to St. John's Schools.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609904129546.jpeg" alt="sp Marlene Moritz" />
 <figcaption>sp Marlene Moritz</figcaption>
 </figure>Marlene MoritzNovember 05, 1933 - January 02, 2021Family-only memorial services will be at 2 PM Saturday, January 9 at St. John's Catholic Church &amp; will be livestreamed. Friends may sign the register book from 9 AM to 5 PM Friday, January 8 at the Roberts Family Funeral Home. Per her wishes, cremation has taken place. Memorials may be given to St. John's Schools.

Marlene Moritz

Sister Therese Blecha died January 4, 2021, at Nazareth Motherhouse in Concordia, KS.&nbsp; She was 79 years old and a Sister of St. Joseph for 57 years.&nbsp; She was born in Belleville, KS, on April 15, 1941, to Ernest and Eleanor Baxa Blecha, the second of six children, and was baptized Eloise Ann.&nbsp; She entered the Sisters of St. Joseph, Concordia, KS on September 8, 1962.&nbsp; On August 14, 1963, Eloise received the habit of the Sisters of St. Joseph and was given the name Sister Therese.&nbsp; She pronounced first vows on August 15, 1964 and final vows on August 15, 1969.

Sister Therese began her undergraduate studies at Marymount College in 1959.&nbsp; Upon completion of her novitiate she returned to Marymount and completed her BS degree with a double major in chemistry and biology in 1965.&nbsp; For the next four years she taught in Boonville, MO before returning to Sacred Heart High School in Salina where she taught from 1969-1971.&nbsp; Therese began graduate work in 1973 and by 1976 she had completed all course work for her Master’s Degree and then a second Master’s Degree.&nbsp; By 1981 she completed her research project in organic chemistry and received her Ph.D. from Kansas State University.&nbsp; She returned to Marymount to serve on the faculty from 1976 until the college closed in 1989.&nbsp; From 1989 until 1993 she taught Chemistry at St. Joseph College in Rensselaer, IN.

In 1993 she was appointed as General Treasurer of the Congregation; a position she held until retiring in 2008.&nbsp; In 2012 she was elected to the Leadership Council of the Congregation; followed by being elected Vice President of the Congregation in 2016.&nbsp; Her term ended in July of 2020.

Sister Therese was preceded in death by her parents.&nbsp; She is survived by her brothers Richard of Salina and David of Munden; sisters Marjorie Schmitz and Marie Chmidling of Topeka and Cathie Switzer of Concordia, Kansas.&nbsp; The Mass of Christian Burial will be January 7 at 10:30 a.m. in the Motherhouse Auditorium with Rev. Barry Brinkman presiding.&nbsp; The eulogist is S. Jean Rosemarynoski.&nbsp; Due to the safety precautions for Covid-19, the funeral mass will be private.&nbsp; However, it will be livestreamed on the Sisters of St. Joseph Facebook page.&nbsp; The burial will be in the Nazareth Motherhouse Cemetery.&nbsp; Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, 325 W. 6th&nbsp;St., Concordia, KS is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp; Memorials for Sister Therese Blecha may be given to the Sisters of St. Joseph Health Care/ Retirement Fund or the Apostolic Works of the Sisters; P.O. Box 279, Concordia, KS&nbsp; 66901. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chaputbuoy.com/">www.chaputbuoy.com</a>&nbsp;for online condolences.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609903721098.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sister Therese Blecha died January 4, 2021, at Nazareth Motherhouse in Concordia, KS.&nbsp; She was 79 years old and a Sister of St. Joseph for 57 years.&nbsp; She was born in Belleville, KS, on April 15, 1941, to Ernest and Eleanor Baxa Blecha, the second of six children, and was baptized Eloise Ann.&nbsp; She entered the Sisters of St. Joseph, Concordia, KS on September 8, 1962.&nbsp; On August 14, 1963, Eloise received the habit of the Sisters of St. Joseph and was given the name Sister Therese.&nbsp; She pronounced first vows on August 15, 1964 and final vows on August 15, 1969.Sister Therese began her undergraduate studies at Marymount College in 1959.&nbsp; Upon completion of her novitiate she returned to Marymount and completed her BS degree with a double major in chemistry and biology in 1965.&nbsp; For the next four years she taught in Boonville, MO before returning to Sacred Heart High School in Salina where she taught from 1969-1971.&nbsp; Therese began graduate work in 1973 and by 1976 she had completed all course work for her Master’s Degree and then a second Master’s Degree.&nbsp; By 1981 she completed her research project in organic chemistry and received her Ph.D. from Kansas State University.&nbsp; She returned to Marymount to serve on the faculty from 1976 until the college closed in 1989.&nbsp; From 1989 until 1993 she taught Chemistry at St. Joseph College in Rensselaer, IN.In 1993 she was appointed as General Treasurer of the Congregation; a position she held until retiring in 2008.&nbsp; In 2012 she was elected to the Leadership Council of the Congregation; followed by being elected Vice President of the Congregation in 2016.&nbsp; Her term ended in July of 2020.Sister Therese was preceded in death by her parents.&nbsp; She is survived by her brothers Richard of Salina and David of Munden; sisters Marjorie Schmitz and Marie Chmidling of Topeka and Cathie Switzer of Concordia, Kansas.&nbsp; The Mass of Christian Burial will be January 7 at 10:30 a.m. in the Motherhouse Auditorium with Rev. Barry Brinkman presiding.&nbsp; The eulogist is S. Jean Rosemarynoski.&nbsp; Due to the safety precautions for Covid-19, the funeral mass will be private.&nbsp; However, it will be livestreamed on the Sisters of St. Joseph Facebook page.&nbsp; The burial will be in the Nazareth Motherhouse Cemetery.&nbsp; Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, 325 W. 6th&nbsp;St., Concordia, KS is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp; Memorials for Sister Therese Blecha may be given to the Sisters of St. Joseph Health Care/ Retirement Fund or the Apostolic Works of the Sisters; P.O. Box 279, Concordia, KS&nbsp; 66901. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chaputbuoy.com/">www.chaputbuoy.com</a>&nbsp;for online condolences.

Sister Therese Blecha

&nbsp; Merlin D. Riffel, 84 of Enterprise passed away January 3, 2021 at Memorial Hospital in Abilene. He was born August 14, 1936 on the farm close to Hope, KS , the son of Benjamin and Ella (Lorei) Riffel.

On May 20 1972, he was united in marriage to Jane Swisher. She preceded him in death November 2, 2011. 

Merlin worked on a road crew/highway construction worker. 

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

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

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

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

Merlin D. Riffel

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

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

She was full of life and a wonderful loving Mother to her son Kyler and loving Daughter and Sister. 

She was preceded in death by her Grandma and Grandpa Hein and Grandpa Rein and Uncle John Rein. 

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609902714642.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>&nbsp; Erika Lynn Rein-Mills born April 11, 1985 in Salina, Kansas and died January 3, 2021 in Abilene, Kansas. She grew up in Abilene and graduated from Abilene High School with the class of 2003. She attended Hutchinson Community College and graduated with a degree in Respiratory Therapy from Washburn University. She worked at Stormont Vail in Topeka as a respiratory therapist for 8 years before moving back to Abilene. Before Stormont she worked at Tailgators Pub &amp; Grub in Topeka while attending Washburn. She was full of life and a wonderful loving Mother to her son Kyler and loving Daughter and Sister. She was preceded in death by her Grandma and Grandpa Hein and Grandpa Rein and Uncle John Rein. Surviving is her 11 year old son Kyler, boyfriend Cole Applehans, her Mother, Connie Karsmizki and Step-Father Rob, her Father Ron Rein and Step-Mother Debbie, her Brothers Matthew (Nina Gerken) Rein and Brandon (Sara Gammon) Rein, her Grandmother Joyce Rein, her Uncles Verlyn (Pam) Rein, Curtis (Sandy) Rein, Roger (Dixie) Hein, Don (Petra) Hein, Mike (Dustine) Hein, her Aunts Judy (Ron) Brown, JoAnn (Gene) Trenary, Carla (George) Stanley, Vicki (Steve) Gieber, Step-Siblings Jared Karsmizki, Tracy (Allison) Copenhaver , Tabetha Wenger as well as many cousins and friends. The family has chosen cremation and will receive friends Friday January 8, 2021 at New Trail Fellowship Church located at 1157 2400 Avenue Abilene, KS 67410 from 12:30 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. with a graveside service following at 3:00 P.M. at Abilene City Cemetery with Pastor Stan Norman officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Erika Lynn Mills Memorial Fund for Kyler Mills' Education Fund. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home at 414 NW Third St. Abilene, KS 67410 or First Bank Kansas-Abilene at P.O. Box 37 Abilene, KS 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Erika Lynn Rein-Mills

&nbsp; Dr. Christopher “Chris” L. Southwick, age 64, of Abilene, KS, passed away doing what he loved on Monday, December 21, 2020. Dr. Southwick was born on January 12, 1956. 

Due to having a profound love of learning and education all his life, he had a professional background that was unsurpassed. Dr. Southwick attended Kansas State University for a degree in Pre-Medical Chemical Engineering before graduating from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1984. He then completed his residency in Anesthesiology at Western Reserve Care System in Youngstown, OH through 1987.

Dr. Southwick loved his family, his work, and his patients. Committing his life to helping those in need, he always remained humble and witty. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Southwick became licensed to practice medicine in nine states, including opening his own successful pain management practice in Northeastern Kansas. 

He had been a devout member and past-President of the American Society of Anesthesiologists since completing his residency, although the rest of his interests and affiliations were numerous and also highly prized.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kerry Southwick (Long) of Abilene, KS; his brother Patrick Southwick of Salina, KS, and his four children – Andrew Southwick of Denver, CO; Kylie (Southwick) Roach (Phillip) of Prairie Village, KS; Caitlin Southwick of Leawood, KS; Everett Southwick of Tampa, FL. 

He is preceded in death by his Mother, Father, and Sister. 

A private family visitation was held at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home in Abilene, KS. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in the spring.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609902462745.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>&nbsp; Dr. Christopher “Chris” L. Southwick, age 64, of Abilene, KS, passed away doing what he loved on Monday, December 21, 2020. Dr. Southwick was born on January 12, 1956. Due to having a profound love of learning and education all his life, he had a professional background that was unsurpassed. Dr. Southwick attended Kansas State University for a degree in Pre-Medical Chemical Engineering before graduating from the University of Kansas School of Medicine in 1984. He then completed his residency in Anesthesiology at Western Reserve Care System in Youngstown, OH through 1987. Dr. Southwick loved his family, his work, and his patients. Committing his life to helping those in need, he always remained humble and witty. Throughout his career, Dr. Southwick became licensed to practice medicine in nine states, including opening his own successful pain management practice in Northeastern Kansas. He had been a devout member and past-President of the American Society of Anesthesiologists since completing his residency, although the rest of his interests and affiliations were numerous and also highly prized. He is survived by his loving wife, Kerry Southwick (Long) of Abilene, KS; his brother Patrick Southwick of Salina, KS, and his four children – Andrew Southwick of Denver, CO; Kylie (Southwick) Roach (Phillip) of Prairie Village, KS; Caitlin Southwick of Leawood, KS; Everett Southwick of Tampa, FL. He is preceded in death by his Mother, Father, and Sister. A private family visitation was held at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home in Abilene, KS. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in the spring.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr. Christopher “Chris” L. Southwick

Steven Paul "Steve" Walle, 73, passed away peacefully at the Reno County Hospice House surrounded by his family on January 1, 2021. He was born June 7, 1947 in Salina, Kansas to Herbert and Fernne Walle of Culver, Kansas.

Growing up on the family farm, Steve embraced and honed a skill and love of the land that gave him a lifetime platform for his equally strong work ethic and commitment to "doing it right the first time, every time." After graduating from diesel mechanic school, Steve entered the U.S. Navy in 1966, proudly serving until 1970, including two Vietnam tours as an Engineman/Fireman, commandeering an LCU as a "brown water" sailer. Upon his honorable discharge, Steve was able to re-engage his love of the land with a career that blended decades of heavy equipment excavation and farming. Leaving his mark of expertise on numerous commercial and residential developments throughout the Midwest. In 1980 he found the love of his life, in Loveland, Colorado Leila Jean Schneider. They returned to Kansas and married on May 24th, 1986. In 1989 they had the opportunity to take over the family farm operation upon his parents retirement. As the third Walle generation, Steve once again applied his considerable skills as a farmer and excavator which brought him great joy. He served on the Hedville Grain Board of Directors, was Sexton for the Walnut Grove Cemetery and a faithful member of Christ The King Lutheran Church.

And now, the rest of the story. Perhaps more renowned was Steve's legendary sense of humor, motivational teachings and love affair with chocolate. Every family member and friend could give multiple examples of how Steve demonstrated these characteristics every day of his life. No matter how sad, disappointed, worried or down, he took it upon himself as a personal challenge to lift you up, notably with "Walle-isms". And he was a master at it. Of all his accomplishments, this was his legacy. His legacy to the farm is a beautiful oak tree he planted on his 50th birthday. Well done faithful servant.

Steve is survived by his wife Leila, daughters Rhonda Schur, Amber Jeske (Lance), twins Stacie and Stephanie Walle, son Seth Walle, sister Sandra Cristina (Lyle), brother Sheldon Walle (Danette), grandchildren Quenton, Tiffany, Justice, Chance, Jaycee, Katelyn, Ashlyn, Alec, Blake, Jayden(Donk), 5 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Sharon (Walle) Johnson.

Services will be held Saturday, January 9, 2021, 2 p.m. at Christ The King Lutheran Church, 111 West Magnolia, Salina. Masks are required for attendance and there will be limited seating due to social distancing. Veteran Honor Guard inurnment will follow at 3:30 p.m. at Walnut Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice House of Reno County, 2020 North Waldron St. #100, Hutchinson, KS. 67502 or Christ The King Lutheran Church, Salina, KS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609902236055.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Steven Paul "Steve" Walle, 73, passed away peacefully at the Reno County Hospice House surrounded by his family on January 1, 2021. He was born June 7, 1947 in Salina, Kansas to Herbert and Fernne Walle of Culver, Kansas.Growing up on the family farm, Steve embraced and honed a skill and love of the land that gave him a lifetime platform for his equally strong work ethic and commitment to "doing it right the first time, every time." After graduating from diesel mechanic school, Steve entered the U.S. Navy in 1966, proudly serving until 1970, including two Vietnam tours as an Engineman/Fireman, commandeering an LCU as a "brown water" sailer. Upon his honorable discharge, Steve was able to re-engage his love of the land with a career that blended decades of heavy equipment excavation and farming. Leaving his mark of expertise on numerous commercial and residential developments throughout the Midwest. In 1980 he found the love of his life, in Loveland, Colorado Leila Jean Schneider. They returned to Kansas and married on May 24th, 1986. In 1989 they had the opportunity to take over the family farm operation upon his parents retirement. As the third Walle generation, Steve once again applied his considerable skills as a farmer and excavator which brought him great joy. He served on the Hedville Grain Board of Directors, was Sexton for the Walnut Grove Cemetery and a faithful member of Christ The King Lutheran Church.And now, the rest of the story. Perhaps more renowned was Steve's legendary sense of humor, motivational teachings and love affair with chocolate. Every family member and friend could give multiple examples of how Steve demonstrated these characteristics every day of his life. No matter how sad, disappointed, worried or down, he took it upon himself as a personal challenge to lift you up, notably with "Walle-isms". And he was a master at it. Of all his accomplishments, this was his legacy. His legacy to the farm is a beautiful oak tree he planted on his 50th birthday. Well done faithful servant.Steve is survived by his wife Leila, daughters Rhonda Schur, Amber Jeske (Lance), twins Stacie and Stephanie Walle, son Seth Walle, sister Sandra Cristina (Lyle), brother Sheldon Walle (Danette), grandchildren Quenton, Tiffany, Justice, Chance, Jaycee, Katelyn, Ashlyn, Alec, Blake, Jayden(Donk), 5 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Sharon (Walle) Johnson.Services will be held Saturday, January 9, 2021, 2 p.m. at Christ The King Lutheran Church, 111 West Magnolia, Salina. Masks are required for attendance and there will be limited seating due to social distancing. Veteran Honor Guard inurnment will follow at 3:30 p.m. at Walnut Grove Cemetery.Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice House of Reno County, 2020 North Waldron St. #100, Hutchinson, KS. 67502 or Christ The King Lutheran Church, Salina, KS.

Steven Paul "Steve" Walle

Charlie Albert Rolen was born on June 8, 1929, near Idabel, Oklahoma, the son of Johnnie V. &amp; Sadie T. Rolen. Charlie attended Pleasant Hill school until the 7th grade, when he went to work for his dad.

Charlie married Florence June Ellis on April 3, 1960, and they lived around Mahaska their entire lives. Charlie was a hardworking man his entire life, and was always doing something or on the go. He worked as a farmer / stockman, then later worked for CE Combustion Manufacturing in Concordia until his retirement. In his spare time, Charlie tore down buildings and barns around Mahaska.

Charlie passed away at his home on January 1, 2021, at the age of 91 years, 6 months and 24 days.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie and Sadie, his wife June in 1996, daughter Sheila DeMars, daughter Carol VanDevege, brother Kenneth Ray Rolen and brother Delmer Rolen.

Charlie is survived by his children, Dale Henry of Norton, Myrna Roberts of Concordia, and Mike Wyman. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Joe Henry (Nicole) of Hays and their children, Phoenix, Jazlynn and Kaine; Stephanie Bicken of Sioux Falls, and her children Angie, Amber &amp; Ashley, and grandchildren Raymond, Amanda, Shelly, Chuch, Sherry and Marla. Charlie is also survived by his sisters, Velma Brassfield of Garvin, Oklahoma, and Jewel Turnage of Idabel, Oklahoma; he is survived by other family, and a community of friends.

Cremation was chosen, and a private, family service will be held at the Mahaska City Cemetery.

Memorials are requested to the Mahaska Community Center, and may be sent in care of Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home.

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home assisted the Rolen family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609825430675.jpeg" alt="sp Charlie Albert Rolen" />
 <figcaption>sp Charlie Albert Rolen</figcaption>
 </figure>Charlie Albert Rolen was born on June 8, 1929, near Idabel, Oklahoma, the son of Johnnie V. &amp; Sadie T. Rolen. Charlie attended Pleasant Hill school until the 7th grade, when he went to work for his dad.Charlie married Florence June Ellis on April 3, 1960, and they lived around Mahaska their entire lives. Charlie was a hardworking man his entire life, and was always doing something or on the go. He worked as a farmer / stockman, then later worked for CE Combustion Manufacturing in Concordia until his retirement. In his spare time, Charlie tore down buildings and barns around Mahaska.Charlie passed away at his home on January 1, 2021, at the age of 91 years, 6 months and 24 days.He is preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie and Sadie, his wife June in 1996, daughter Sheila DeMars, daughter Carol VanDevege, brother Kenneth Ray Rolen and brother Delmer Rolen.Charlie is survived by his children, Dale Henry of Norton, Myrna Roberts of Concordia, and Mike Wyman. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Joe Henry (Nicole) of Hays and their children, Phoenix, Jazlynn and Kaine; Stephanie Bicken of Sioux Falls, and her children Angie, Amber &amp; Ashley, and grandchildren Raymond, Amanda, Shelly, Chuch, Sherry and Marla. Charlie is also survived by his sisters, Velma Brassfield of Garvin, Oklahoma, and Jewel Turnage of Idabel, Oklahoma; he is survived by other family, and a community of friends.Cremation was chosen, and a private, family service will be held at the Mahaska City Cemetery.Memorials are requested to the Mahaska Community Center, and may be sent in care of Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home.Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home assisted the Rolen family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

Charlie Albert Rolen

Merle Dennis Larson, 74, of Lindsborg, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2021 at Advent Health Shawnee Mission.  Merle was born December 4, 1946 in Lindsborg to the late Hiram and Wilma (Nelson) Larson.  He married Lesa Rodene on November 9, 1985 in Lindsborg, KS.  

Merle graduated high school and served in the United States Navy.  For 20 years his family resided in Oak Ridge, Tennessee where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree and worked as a radiation protection specialist for the nuclear power industry. 

Following his retirement and return to Lindsborg, Merle took an active role in the community.  He was a licensed mixologist and enjoyed being behind the bar at Farley’s.  He currently served as president of the Raymer Society and Red Barn Studio, served on the Bethany Lutheran Church Council, a member of the American Legion and took pride in hanging the downtown Christmas lights for the city of Lindsborg. He was an active community member and volunteer and loved the city of Lindsborg. 

He is survived by his wife: Lesa, of the home; daughters: Bailey Morley (Blake) of Jackson, WY, Hannah Baggett (Tyler) of Brevard, NC, and Chloe Jones (Ridge) of Lindsborg, KS;  brother: Willis Larson (Lois) of York, PA;  as well as grandchildren: Devon Rose and Claire Morley, Owen and Linden Baggett, and Sutter and Lyla Jones.

Merle is preceded in death by his parents and his sister: Ann A. Murfitt

Cremation has been chosen.  Merle’s family would like to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support.  A Celebration of Life for Merle will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethany Lutheran Church or to the Red Barn Studio.   Memorials may be sent in care of Crick-Christians Funeral Home, 103 N. Washington, Lindsborg, KS 67456.

Merle Dennis Larson, 74, of Lindsborg, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2021 at Advent Health Shawnee Mission. Merle was born December 4, 1946 in Lindsborg to the late Hiram and Wilma (Nelson) Larson. He married Lesa Rodene on November 9, 1985 in Lindsborg, KS. Merle graduated high school and served in the United States Navy. For 20 years his family resided in Oak Ridge, Tennessee where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree and worked as a radiation protection specialist for the nuclear power industry. Following his retirement and return to Lindsborg, Merle took an active role in the community. He was a licensed mixologist and enjoyed being behind the bar at Farley’s. He currently served as president of the Raymer Society and Red Barn Studio, served on the Bethany Lutheran Church Council, a member of the American Legion and took pride in hanging the downtown Christmas lights for the city of Lindsborg. He was an active community member and volunteer and loved the city of Lindsborg. He is survived by his wife: Lesa, of the home; daughters: Bailey Morley (Blake) of Jackson, WY, Hannah Baggett (Tyler) of Brevard, NC, and Chloe Jones (Ridge) of Lindsborg, KS; brother: Willis Larson (Lois) of York, PA; as well as grandchildren: Devon Rose and Claire Morley, Owen and Linden Baggett, and Sutter and Lyla Jones.Merle is preceded in death by his parents and his sister: Ann A. MurfittCremation has been chosen. Merle’s family would like to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support. A Celebration of Life for Merle will be announced at a later date.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethany Lutheran Church or to the Red Barn Studio. Memorials may be sent in care of Crick-Christians Funeral Home, 103 N. Washington, Lindsborg, KS 67456.

Merle Dennis Larson

&nbsp; How many lives can one person touch?&nbsp; Timothy J Wesselowski, who passed away from complications due to COVID-19 on January 2, 2021 in McPherson, Kansas, impacted hundreds if not thousands over the years. He raised his children to work hard and pursue their dreams while being guided by a strong moral compass.&nbsp; He leaves them behind to complete their own journeys: his daughter Tonya and husband Greg; his son Nathan and wife Amy; his son Blaine and wife Anja, his stepdaughter Barbara and husband Wayne and his stepson Phil.&nbsp; He was a larger than life, loving grandfather who loved and encouraged his grandchildren: Nicole, Renee, Erin, Lorelei, Isaak, Lydia, Torrey, Trent, Vanessa and Mason to follow their passions as he did.&nbsp; He also leaves behind two brothers: Walt Wesselowski and Dan West and four great grandchildren.&nbsp; His family is comforted to know that he will be re-uniting with his loving wife Jean and his brother Tom who left this world before him. He was born in Concordia in 1940 to Harold and Helen Wesselowski. Tim was a Kansas native – a fact that he would embrace with immense pride throughout his entire life.&nbsp; He grew up in Beloit and eventually attended McPherson College where earned his bachelor’s degree, lettered in both football and track and field, and set a school record in the shot put.&nbsp; He believed wholeheartedly in the importance of developing an intellectual foundation and would go on to earn a Master’s Degree in Education at Wichita State University. He then began his life’s work – pursuing a long career as a teacher and coach at both the middle and high school levels where he shared his energy, his excitement and his boundless passion for US History and Civics, football and throwing events with the youth of Kansas. Tim began teaching in Brewster, KS in 1962 where he taught high school history while coaching football, basketball and track.&nbsp; He would then do the same at Chase Rural High School and at Kingman Junior High.&nbsp; In 1970 he would join the staff of the school that would become his home, McPherson High. Throughout his career, he was never an educator who just went through the motions.&nbsp; He was always looking for new ways to engage and connect with students – adopting the use of computers and the Internet for the classroom way before it was cool and recruiting technically inclined students to unofficially serve on his own “geek squad” for technical support.&nbsp; He absolutely loved when students would keep him on his toes by challenging him with questions and ideas – he knew it made him a better teacher.&nbsp; In both the classroom and on the field, he was no pushover.&nbsp; He believed in hard work and maximum effort – but he also believed that hard work could be made fun.&nbsp; His unique ability to blend the roles of task master, cheer leader, instructor, mentor and friend resulted in bonds with his students and athletes that transcended time. A memorial for Tim will be held at an undetermined time in the future once people can gather together without fear contracting the disease that took his life. In remembrance of Tim’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to First United Methodist Church of McPherson or McPherson High School and that you please wear a mask In order protect others like Tim.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; How many lives can one person touch?&nbsp; Timothy J Wesselowski, who passed away from complications due to COVID-19 on January 2, 2021 in McPherson, Kansas, impacted hundreds if not thousands over the years. He raised his children to work hard and pursue their dreams while being guided by a strong moral compass.&nbsp; He leaves them behind to complete their own journeys: his daughter Tonya and husband Greg; his son Nathan and wife Amy; his son Blaine and wife Anja, his stepdaughter Barbara and husband Wayne and his stepson Phil.&nbsp; He was a larger than life, loving grandfather who loved and encouraged his grandchildren: Nicole, Renee, Erin, Lorelei, Isaak, Lydia, Torrey, Trent, Vanessa and Mason to follow their passions as he did.&nbsp; He also leaves behind two brothers: Walt Wesselowski and Dan West and four great grandchildren.&nbsp; His family is comforted to know that he will be re-uniting with his loving wife Jean and his brother Tom who left this world before him. He was born in Concordia in 1940 to Harold and Helen Wesselowski. Tim was a Kansas native – a fact that he would embrace with immense pride throughout his entire life.&nbsp; He grew up in Beloit and eventually attended McPherson College where earned his bachelor’s degree, lettered in both football and track and field, and set a school record in the shot put.&nbsp; He believed wholeheartedly in the importance of developing an intellectual foundation and would go on to earn a Master’s Degree in Education at Wichita State University. He then began his life’s work – pursuing a long career as a teacher and coach at both the middle and high school levels where he shared his energy, his excitement and his boundless passion for US History and Civics, football and throwing events with the youth of Kansas. Tim began teaching in Brewster, KS in 1962 where he taught high school history while coaching football, basketball and track.&nbsp; He would then do the same at Chase Rural High School and at Kingman Junior High.&nbsp; In 1970 he would join the staff of the school that would become his home, McPherson High. Throughout his career, he was never an educator who just went through the motions.&nbsp; He was always looking for new ways to engage and connect with students – adopting the use of computers and the Internet for the classroom way before it was cool and recruiting technically inclined students to unofficially serve on his own “geek squad” for technical support.&nbsp; He absolutely loved when students would keep him on his toes by challenging him with questions and ideas – he knew it made him a better teacher.&nbsp; In both the classroom and on the field, he was no pushover.&nbsp; He believed in hard work and maximum effort – but he also believed that hard work could be made fun.&nbsp; His unique ability to blend the roles of task master, cheer leader, instructor, mentor and friend resulted in bonds with his students and athletes that transcended time. A memorial for Tim will be held at an undetermined time in the future once people can gather together without fear contracting the disease that took his life. In remembrance of Tim’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to First United Methodist Church of McPherson or McPherson High School and that you please wear a mask In order protect others like Tim.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Timothy J Wesselowski

&nbsp; It was just before the rising of the sun on Thursday December 31, 2020 that Velma Lee Chandler transitioned to her heavenly home. Velma Chandler was born in Hoffman Oklahoma on May 24, 1937 to Oscar and Jessie (Bruner) McPherson. Velma was the fifth of six children born to this union, four sons and two daughters; Carnell, Dell, Barney, Helen and Johnny.&nbsp; She attended Rentiesville High School. She was soft spoken yet friendly and was known as being a nice young lady. As an adolescent Velma developed a personal and loving relationship with Christ that continued throughout her life. She joined Morning Star Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend James Holland. She extended her love for Christ and for people by being a devoted greeter and helping out in other auxiliaries within the church. She enjoyed attending Wednesday night Bible study and availing her home to students that attended the nearby Central Christian college for Sunday dinners.&nbsp; Velma fell in love with Winfred Chandler and they were married in Checotah Oklahoma in December of 1954. Shortly after they established their new residency in McPherson Kansas and started a family. To this union three sons were born; Victor, Gary and Dwayne.&nbsp; Velma found great joy and satisfaction in caring for her children. She transported them to all of their various sports activities and they knew she was their number one fan. Velma started working for Farmers Alliance insurance company in December of 1972 where she worked in the coding department. She had various coding positions including Coding Supervisor and Technical Assistant in her 27-year career at Farmers Alliance. After retirement she kept herself busy by tending to her flower garden, volunteering in the community and taking various trips with her family.&nbsp; Velma loved being around all of her family especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. For years she hosted the Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. She took pride in cooking her meals in love and serving her famous homemade chocolate sheet cake and sweet potato pies. Velma was an excellent mother, proud grandmother and a devout wife.&nbsp; Velma was proceeded in death by her husband, parents and brothers and sisters. She is survived by her son Victor Chandler (Jan), Gary Chandler (Donna) and Dwayne Chandler (Jendy) all of Wichita Kansas. A host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephew, cousins and friends.&nbsp; A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 7, 2021 at the McPherson Cemetery at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor James Hollis officiating. Memorials may be given to the Velma Chandler Memorial Fund and they can be sent to Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid St. McPherson, Ks. 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; It was just before the rising of the sun on Thursday December 31, 2020 that Velma Lee Chandler transitioned to her heavenly home. Velma Chandler was born in Hoffman Oklahoma on May 24, 1937 to Oscar and Jessie (Bruner) McPherson. Velma was the fifth of six children born to this union, four sons and two daughters; Carnell, Dell, Barney, Helen and Johnny.&nbsp; She attended Rentiesville High School. She was soft spoken yet friendly and was known as being a nice young lady. As an adolescent Velma developed a personal and loving relationship with Christ that continued throughout her life. She joined Morning Star Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend James Holland. She extended her love for Christ and for people by being a devoted greeter and helping out in other auxiliaries within the church. She enjoyed attending Wednesday night Bible study and availing her home to students that attended the nearby Central Christian college for Sunday dinners.&nbsp; Velma fell in love with Winfred Chandler and they were married in Checotah Oklahoma in December of 1954. Shortly after they established their new residency in McPherson Kansas and started a family. To this union three sons were born; Victor, Gary and Dwayne.&nbsp; Velma found great joy and satisfaction in caring for her children. She transported them to all of their various sports activities and they knew she was their number one fan. Velma started working for Farmers Alliance insurance company in December of 1972 where she worked in the coding department. She had various coding positions including Coding Supervisor and Technical Assistant in her 27-year career at Farmers Alliance. After retirement she kept herself busy by tending to her flower garden, volunteering in the community and taking various trips with her family.&nbsp; Velma loved being around all of her family especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. For years she hosted the Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. She took pride in cooking her meals in love and serving her famous homemade chocolate sheet cake and sweet potato pies. Velma was an excellent mother, proud grandmother and a devout wife.&nbsp; Velma was proceeded in death by her husband, parents and brothers and sisters. She is survived by her son Victor Chandler (Jan), Gary Chandler (Donna) and Dwayne Chandler (Jendy) all of Wichita Kansas. A host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephew, cousins and friends.&nbsp; A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 7, 2021 at the McPherson Cemetery at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor James Hollis officiating. Memorials may be given to the Velma Chandler Memorial Fund and they can be sent to Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid St. McPherson, Ks. 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Velma Lee Chandler

&nbsp; Gertrude Loretta "Gretchen" Kimble, 98, of Inman, KS, passed away at 9:45 p.m., Thursday, December 31st, 2020 peacefully, at Pleasant View Home, Kansas. Gretchen was born in Bremen, Germany on March 3, 1922, a daughter of Ernestine Marie (Beuke) and William Pfizenmayer. Gretchen attended the Chicago schools and graduated from Lucy Flowers Technical High School for girls, Chicago, Illinois. Gertrude Loretta Pfizenmayer was united in marriage to Donald L. Kimble on February 20, 1946 at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Chicago, Illinois. The young couple established their first home together in Chicago, Illinois. The family moved to Inman, Kansas in 1951. This union was blessed with the birth of three children, two daughters and one son, Donna, Ralph, and Linda. She was a member of St. Peter's United Church of Christ Inman, Kansas where she served on Church Counsel, taught Kindergarten thru High School Sunday School, was a member of Women's Fellowship, and served in many other capacities. Gretchen worked for Bell Telephone Company in Chicago before her marriage. She was a homemaker and she took great pride in providing for her family in this manner and after the children were in school, she worked for Ike's Jack and Jill grocery store. Gretchen was a volunteer for the Blood Drives, Inman Senior Center, and Pleasantview Home. She enjoyed sewing, Knitting, watching her children's and grandchildren's activities, and spending time with her family. Gretchen valued her time and friends here in Inman more than anyplace she lived. She is survived by her children, Donna L. Toews and husband Jim, of Inman, Kansas, Ralph Kimble and wife Debbie, of Wichita, Kansas, and Linda Klaassen, of Whitewater, Kansas; her six grandchildren, Dale Hadlock, Allison Taylor and husband Jake, Grant Kimble and wife Julie,Kourt Klaassen and wife Tracy, Derek Klaassen and wife Stacee, and Brent Klaassen and wife Megan; her 14 great-grandchildren, Dominick Hadlock, Alex Taylor, Emma Taylor, Rainy Cook, Max Cook, Fox Cook, Dylan Klaassen, Drew Klaassen, Kole Klaassen, Kynzee Klaassen, Decker Klaassen, Halston Klaassen; several nieces and nephews, other relatives and a host of friends. Gretchen was preceded in death by her parents, William and Ernestine Pfizenmayer; her husband Donald; her sisters, Joan Geist, Erna Hartel and Hildy Smeby and two son-in-laws, Tom Klaassen and Larry Hadlock. A Celebration of Life service will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's United Church of Christ, Inman, Kansas or the Inman Senior Center in memory of Gretchen and they can be sent in care of the Glidden - Ediger Funeral Home; 222 West Euclid Street, McPherson, Kansas 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; Gertrude Loretta "Gretchen" Kimble, 98, of Inman, KS, passed away at 9:45 p.m., Thursday, December 31st, 2020 peacefully, at Pleasant View Home, Kansas. Gretchen was born in Bremen, Germany on March 3, 1922, a daughter of Ernestine Marie (Beuke) and William Pfizenmayer. Gretchen attended the Chicago schools and graduated from Lucy Flowers Technical High School for girls, Chicago, Illinois. Gertrude Loretta Pfizenmayer was united in marriage to Donald L. Kimble on February 20, 1946 at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Chicago, Illinois. The young couple established their first home together in Chicago, Illinois. The family moved to Inman, Kansas in 1951. This union was blessed with the birth of three children, two daughters and one son, Donna, Ralph, and Linda. She was a member of St. Peter's United Church of Christ Inman, Kansas where she served on Church Counsel, taught Kindergarten thru High School Sunday School, was a member of Women's Fellowship, and served in many other capacities. Gretchen worked for Bell Telephone Company in Chicago before her marriage. She was a homemaker and she took great pride in providing for her family in this manner and after the children were in school, she worked for Ike's Jack and Jill grocery store. Gretchen was a volunteer for the Blood Drives, Inman Senior Center, and Pleasantview Home. She enjoyed sewing, Knitting, watching her children's and grandchildren's activities, and spending time with her family. Gretchen valued her time and friends here in Inman more than anyplace she lived. She is survived by her children, Donna L. Toews and husband Jim, of Inman, Kansas, Ralph Kimble and wife Debbie, of Wichita, Kansas, and Linda Klaassen, of Whitewater, Kansas; her six grandchildren, Dale Hadlock, Allison Taylor and husband Jake, Grant Kimble and wife Julie,Kourt Klaassen and wife Tracy, Derek Klaassen and wife Stacee, and Brent Klaassen and wife Megan; her 14 great-grandchildren, Dominick Hadlock, Alex Taylor, Emma Taylor, Rainy Cook, Max Cook, Fox Cook, Dylan Klaassen, Drew Klaassen, Kole Klaassen, Kynzee Klaassen, Decker Klaassen, Halston Klaassen; several nieces and nephews, other relatives and a host of friends. Gretchen was preceded in death by her parents, William and Ernestine Pfizenmayer; her husband Donald; her sisters, Joan Geist, Erna Hartel and Hildy Smeby and two son-in-laws, Tom Klaassen and Larry Hadlock. A Celebration of Life service will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's United Church of Christ, Inman, Kansas or the Inman Senior Center in memory of Gretchen and they can be sent in care of the Glidden - Ediger Funeral Home; 222 West Euclid Street, McPherson, Kansas 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gertrude Loretta "Gretchen" Kimble

Donna LaVerne (Sims) Brown, 89, of Winfield, KS, died January 3, 2021. Donna was born on January 5, 1931 to Carrie Leona Anderson Sims and Ward Peter Sims in Minneola, Kansas. Donna was a “girly” girl who loved wearing pretty dresses, many made from flour sacks that were designed with flowers or cute patterns. She loved music which included playing the piano and then the trombone later on, spending time with her best friends Nannette Pitman and Betty Lou Sandidge, listening to her mother read stories in the evening, and teasing her older brothers. During Easter break of her sophomore year at Southwestern College, Donna married her sweetheart, Clinton Brown, whom she had met at the “Toot N’ Tell’m” drive-in at Dodge City in the summer of 1949. Clinton was a basketball star at Pittsburg State Teacher’s College and after their marriage they remained inseparable for the next 64 years until his death in 2015, except for the year he spent serving his country in the Koren War. After Clinton returned home, they moved to Iowa City, Iowa, before returning to Donna’s hometown where he began a career in education and they started a family. Over the next 35 years, they lived in Lincoln and McPherson as well as Minneola where Donna worked for Lincoln School and then accepted a job with People Bank &amp; Trust in McPherson, KS, where she worked until 2001 as Loan Officer and the Board Secretary while he continued teaching and coaching. Donna and Clinton were both active members of the First Christian Church in McPherson, teaching the Young Thinkers Sunday School class, serving as Elders in the church, and working with the weekly church youth programs. Once they were both retired in 2001, they moved to Sublette to be near to three of their grandchildren and following them as they crossed the state with stops at Columbus, Yates Center, and Colby. In May, 2015, Donna and Clinton moved to Derby where he was admitted to Westview Senior Living Center and she rented an apartment at the Greens, right on the Derby Country Club golf course. When Clinton died on July 15, 2015, Donna continued living there until she moved in with her son, Kevin, and daughter-in-law, Pam, at Winfield in December of 2019. She enjoyed living in Winfield, but the effects of kidney failure and years of dialysis were hard on Donna and she passed peacefully in her sleep on Sunday morning January 3, 2021. The most important things in Donna’s life were her family, friends, and faith in God. She stayed active with women’s group through the Woodlawn Methodist Church in Derby, two book clubs as well as reading many other books, eating out with friends, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and promoting Camp Hope, the camp for kids with cancer that she started with the American Red Cross in honor of her two children who died of cancer. “Ma Donna” was the director of Camp Hope for its first 18 years and has remained involved through the last 18 years as one of three Members Emeritus. Survivors include two children, Kevin Brown (Pam) of Winfield, KS; Lori Nelzen of Hesston, KS; grandchildren, John Nelzen (Elizabeth) of Tallahassee, FL; Melissa Brown (Jenny Smith), Wichita, KS; Kyle Brown, Joplin, MO, Cameron Brown, Joplin, MO; great-grandchildren, Soren Nelzen Tallahassee, FL; Bridget Nelzen, Tallahassee, FL; step-children Blake Zimmerman (Samantha) Burlington, KS; Ryan Walt (Blaine) Collyer, KS; and Shay Howell (Cody) Manhattan, KS; step-grandchildren Brock Zimmerman, Avery Zimmerman, Jordi Walt, Bowen Walt, and Kace Howell; numerous special nieces and nephews; and, Deanna Hodges, Tony Nelzen, Donald Brown, and Stephan Lane. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Clinton; son, Kyle; daughter, Melani; and, brothers, Joe Sims and Ward Sims. A memorial and celebration of Donna’s life will be held at a later, safer date in conjunction with KyMel, Inc., the non-profit organization that operates Camp Hope. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made be made in Donna’s name to KyMel, Inc., PO Box 1529, Great Bend, KS 67530; or in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609859300144.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Donna LaVerne (Sims) Brown, 89, of Winfield, KS, died January 3, 2021. Donna was born on January 5, 1931 to Carrie Leona Anderson Sims and Ward Peter Sims in Minneola, Kansas. Donna was a “girly” girl who loved wearing pretty dresses, many made from flour sacks that were designed with flowers or cute patterns. She loved music which included playing the piano and then the trombone later on, spending time with her best friends Nannette Pitman and Betty Lou Sandidge, listening to her mother read stories in the evening, and teasing her older brothers. During Easter break of her sophomore year at Southwestern College, Donna married her sweetheart, Clinton Brown, whom she had met at the “Toot N’ Tell’m” drive-in at Dodge City in the summer of 1949. Clinton was a basketball star at Pittsburg State Teacher’s College and after their marriage they remained inseparable for the next 64 years until his death in 2015, except for the year he spent serving his country in the Koren War. After Clinton returned home, they moved to Iowa City, Iowa, before returning to Donna’s hometown where he began a career in education and they started a family. Over the next 35 years, they lived in Lincoln and McPherson as well as Minneola where Donna worked for Lincoln School and then accepted a job with People Bank &amp; Trust in McPherson, KS, where she worked until 2001 as Loan Officer and the Board Secretary while he continued teaching and coaching. Donna and Clinton were both active members of the First Christian Church in McPherson, teaching the Young Thinkers Sunday School class, serving as Elders in the church, and working with the weekly church youth programs. Once they were both retired in 2001, they moved to Sublette to be near to three of their grandchildren and following them as they crossed the state with stops at Columbus, Yates Center, and Colby. In May, 2015, Donna and Clinton moved to Derby where he was admitted to Westview Senior Living Center and she rented an apartment at the Greens, right on the Derby Country Club golf course. When Clinton died on July 15, 2015, Donna continued living there until she moved in with her son, Kevin, and daughter-in-law, Pam, at Winfield in December of 2019. She enjoyed living in Winfield, but the effects of kidney failure and years of dialysis were hard on Donna and she passed peacefully in her sleep on Sunday morning January 3, 2021. The most important things in Donna’s life were her family, friends, and faith in God. She stayed active with women’s group through the Woodlawn Methodist Church in Derby, two book clubs as well as reading many other books, eating out with friends, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and promoting Camp Hope, the camp for kids with cancer that she started with the American Red Cross in honor of her two children who died of cancer. “Ma Donna” was the director of Camp Hope for its first 18 years and has remained involved through the last 18 years as one of three Members Emeritus. Survivors include two children, Kevin Brown (Pam) of Winfield, KS; Lori Nelzen of Hesston, KS; grandchildren, John Nelzen (Elizabeth) of Tallahassee, FL; Melissa Brown (Jenny Smith), Wichita, KS; Kyle Brown, Joplin, MO, Cameron Brown, Joplin, MO; great-grandchildren, Soren Nelzen Tallahassee, FL; Bridget Nelzen, Tallahassee, FL; step-children Blake Zimmerman (Samantha) Burlington, KS; Ryan Walt (Blaine) Collyer, KS; and Shay Howell (Cody) Manhattan, KS; step-grandchildren Brock Zimmerman, Avery Zimmerman, Jordi Walt, Bowen Walt, and Kace Howell; numerous special nieces and nephews; and, Deanna Hodges, Tony Nelzen, Donald Brown, and Stephan Lane. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Clinton; son, Kyle; daughter, Melani; and, brothers, Joe Sims and Ward Sims. A memorial and celebration of Donna’s life will be held at a later, safer date in conjunction with KyMel, Inc., the non-profit organization that operates Camp Hope. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made be made in Donna’s name to KyMel, Inc., PO Box 1529, Great Bend, KS 67530; or in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donna LaVerne (Sims) Brown

Robert Earl Kidd, 49, of McPherson, KS, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 2, 2021, surrounded by family at the Newton Medical Center, Newton, KS. He was also an employee of Newton Medical Center and served as the director of hospitality services there. Rob was born on October 23, 1971, in Miami, FL, the son of Robert Edwin and Patricia Yvonne (Johns) Kidd. He graduated from Hialeah Miami Lakes High School (Hialeah, FL), attended Mercer University (Macon, GA), and went to culinary school at the Art Institute at Fort Lauderdale, FL. On November 10, 2012, Rob was united in marriage to Kelli Jean Schafer at New Hope Evangelical Church in McPherson, KS. He was a member of New Hope Evangelical Church, McPherson, where he served in many capacities, including being a church elder. Survivors include: his wife, Kelli of the home; three children, Gracie Mae Kidd and Sheperd E. Kidd, both of the home, and Ashley Nunley of Cabot, PA; siblings, Erin Kidd (Steven) of Kansas City, MO and Charles Kidd of Apopka, FL; mother &amp; father-in-law, Dee &amp; Vaughn Juhnke of Moundridge, KS; father-in-law, Gene Schafer of Durham, KS; nieces &amp; nephews, Gaby Kidd, Brock Kidd, Canon &amp; Sage Schafer; brothers &amp; sister-in-law, Cody &amp; Shaina Schafer of Tampa, KS and Dylan Juhnke of Moundridge, KS; and many extended family &amp; friends. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Friday, January 8, 2021, at New Hope Evangelical Church, McPherson, KS. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM, Saturday, January 9, at New Hope Evangelical Church with Pastor George Bocox officiating. Proper masks will be required and provided. No cloth masks allowed. Memorial donations may be given to New Hope Evangelical Church in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460. The family has also established a GoFundMe account for donations under the name of the Robert E. Kidd Memorial Fund. Personal condolences may be sent to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stockhamfamily.com/" target="_blank">www.stockhamfamily.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>Robert Earl Kidd, 49, of McPherson, KS, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 2, 2021, surrounded by family at the Newton Medical Center, Newton, KS. He was also an employee of Newton Medical Center and served as the director of hospitality services there. Rob was born on October 23, 1971, in Miami, FL, the son of Robert Edwin and Patricia Yvonne (Johns) Kidd. He graduated from Hialeah Miami Lakes High School (Hialeah, FL), attended Mercer University (Macon, GA), and went to culinary school at the Art Institute at Fort Lauderdale, FL. On November 10, 2012, Rob was united in marriage to Kelli Jean Schafer at New Hope Evangelical Church in McPherson, KS. He was a member of New Hope Evangelical Church, McPherson, where he served in many capacities, including being a church elder. Survivors include: his wife, Kelli of the home; three children, Gracie Mae Kidd and Sheperd E. Kidd, both of the home, and Ashley Nunley of Cabot, PA; siblings, Erin Kidd (Steven) of Kansas City, MO and Charles Kidd of Apopka, FL; mother &amp; father-in-law, Dee &amp; Vaughn Juhnke of Moundridge, KS; father-in-law, Gene Schafer of Durham, KS; nieces &amp; nephews, Gaby Kidd, Brock Kidd, Canon &amp; Sage Schafer; brothers &amp; sister-in-law, Cody &amp; Shaina Schafer of Tampa, KS and Dylan Juhnke of Moundridge, KS; and many extended family &amp; friends. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Friday, January 8, 2021, at New Hope Evangelical Church, McPherson, KS. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM, Saturday, January 9, at New Hope Evangelical Church with Pastor George Bocox officiating. Proper masks will be required and provided. No cloth masks allowed. Memorial donations may be given to New Hope Evangelical Church in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460. The family has also established a GoFundMe account for donations under the name of the Robert E. Kidd Memorial Fund. Personal condolences may be sent to the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stockhamfamily.com/" target="_blank">www.stockhamfamily.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Robert Earl Kidd

Sharon Joann Amos, 60, daughter of Max and Ruth Amos of Council Grove died January 3, 2021 after a long battle with cancer. Sharon was born in Manhattan, Kansas, December 8, 1960. 

Proceeded in death by grandparents John &amp; Alice Amos and Ray &amp; Fannie Crosby. 

Surviving siblings include Jay M. Amos (Cindy) and Karen Amos Grimes (David), three nephews Parker, Cameron and Nathan, and one niece, Rebecca. She also leaves behind loving friend Phil Haskell. 

Sharon attended elementary and high school in Rolla, Missouri and graduated from the University of Missouri-Rolla with a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Management. She was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. 

Sharon spent her working career at Hallmark in Kansas City, where she spent 31 years as a packaging engineer. 

She love Jesus and served as a lay leader with Rhythm of Grace Church and was a supporting member of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. 

In 2016, Sharon retired to the family farm in Council Grove and quickly became acquainted with friends in church, the library and Morris County Historical&nbsp; Society. She became a member of PEO Chapter H and the Kansas Barn Alliance.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609824074203.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Sharon Joann Amos, 60, daughter of Max and Ruth Amos of Council Grove died January 3, 2021 after a long battle with cancer. Sharon was born in Manhattan, Kansas, December 8, 1960. Proceeded in death by grandparents John &amp; Alice Amos and Ray &amp; Fannie Crosby. Surviving siblings include Jay M. Amos (Cindy) and Karen Amos Grimes (David), three nephews Parker, Cameron and Nathan, and one niece, Rebecca. She also leaves behind loving friend Phil Haskell. Sharon attended elementary and high school in Rolla, Missouri and graduated from the University of Missouri-Rolla with a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Management. She was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. Sharon spent her working career at Hallmark in Kansas City, where she spent 31 years as a packaging engineer. She love Jesus and served as a lay leader with Rhythm of Grace Church and was a supporting member of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. In 2016, Sharon retired to the family farm in Council Grove and quickly became acquainted with friends in church, the library and Morris County Historical&nbsp; Society. She became a member of PEO Chapter H and the Kansas Barn Alliance.Her courage and determination to fight cancer was admired by friends and family. She will be greatly missed. Funeral service to be held Tuesday at 3:00 at Sunny Slopes Cemetery. Masks and social distancing are requested. Condolences can be sent to Sawyer Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Morris County Historical Society, Council Grove Christian Church, First Congregational UCC, or PEO Chapter H.

Sharon Joann Amos

April’s life began on April 30, 1986. She was welcomed by her parents, Larry and Kathy Wiebe, and her older brother, Aaron. She attended Awana and loved Bible memorization. At the age of four she asked Jesus into her heart. She graduated from Frederic Remington High, Class of 2004, and attended Butler Community College for 2 years. April was a member of the Federated Church and enjoyed crafting. She married Bryan Patrick Wheeler on July 4, 2013 in Whitewater.

Her loving family includes her husband, Bryan of Whitewater; mother, Kathy Wiebe of Whitewater; father, Larry Wiebe of Potwin; paternal grandmother, Delilah Wiebe of Newton; brother, Aaron Wiebe and his girlfriend, Krista Briar of Park City; parents-in-law, Wayne and Joan Steen of Florence, South Carolina; brother-in-law, Chris (Anna Marie) Wheeler of Kodiak, Alaska.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Abe and Wilma Wohlgemuth; paternal grandfather, Herbert Wiebe. April passed away of Covid pneumonia and into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Thursday, December 31, 2020 at the age of 34 years old.

Her family will gather with friends on Thursday, January 7, 2021, from 12 noon until 2:30 p.m. Her funeral service will follow at 2:30 p.m., both at Federated Church.

Memorial contributions in April’s name may be directed to Federated Church, 207 E. Central, Whitewater, Kansas 67154 or Lamb Funeral Home, P.O. Box 358, Whitewater, Kansas 67154, to help defray medical expenses. Please sign her online guest book and leave a memory of April at www.ymzfh.com.

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 </figure><h2>April Dawn (Wiebe) Wheeler</h2>April 30, 1986~December 31, 2020(age 34)April’s life began on April 30, 1986. She was welcomed by her parents, Larry and Kathy Wiebe, and her older brother, Aaron. She attended Awana and loved Bible memorization. At the age of four she asked Jesus into her heart. She graduated from Frederic Remington High, Class of 2004, and attended Butler Community College for 2 years. April was a member of the Federated Church and enjoyed crafting. She married Bryan Patrick Wheeler on July 4, 2013 in Whitewater.Her loving family includes her husband, Bryan of Whitewater; mother, Kathy Wiebe of Whitewater; father, Larry Wiebe of Potwin; paternal grandmother, Delilah Wiebe of Newton; brother, Aaron Wiebe and his girlfriend, Krista Briar of Park City; parents-in-law, Wayne and Joan Steen of Florence, South Carolina; brother-in-law, Chris (Anna Marie) Wheeler of Kodiak, Alaska.She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Abe and Wilma Wohlgemuth; paternal grandfather, Herbert Wiebe. April passed away of Covid pneumonia and into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Thursday, December 31, 2020 at the age of 34 years old.Her family will gather with friends on Thursday, January 7, 2021, from 12 noon until 2:30 p.m. Her funeral service will follow at 2:30 p.m., both at Federated Church.Memorial contributions in April’s name may be directed to Federated Church, 207 E. Central, Whitewater, Kansas 67154 or Lamb Funeral Home, P.O. Box 358, Whitewater, Kansas 67154, to help defray medical expenses. Please sign her online guest book and leave a memory of April at www.ymzfh.com.

Obituaries