Obituaries

Updated 2/3/12

EILEEN GRIFFITH

Eileen Griffith, 89, died Jan. 31, 2012 at Hospice House in Hutchinson. She was born Feb. 23, 1922 in Little River, the daughter of Leland T. & Elsie Mae (Keever) DeVault.
She was a resident of Lyons since 1949, formerly of Hutchinson. She was a homemaker and a 50-year member of the VFW of Lyons.
She married Ray A. Griffith on Apr. 16, 1938 in Newton. He preceded her in death on Sept. 2, 1983.
She is survived by two sons, Eddie Griffith of Mulvane and Fred Griffith of Wichita; five brothers, Robert “Bud” DeVault, Bobby Dean DeVault, Don DeVault, Johnny DeVault and Garry DeVault, all of Hutchinson; sister, Marjorie Baerg of Buhler, eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by daughter, Delores Smith and infant daughter, Adelia Mae; two sons, Warren and Leonard Griffith; three brothers, Keith, Kenneth and Richard DeVault and one sister, Alice Hollinger.
Funeral service will be Friday, Feb. 3, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials can be made to Rice County Council on Aging in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
February 3, 2012

Updated 1/31/12

Robert N. 'Bob' Avery

Robert N. "Bob" Avery, 79, of Hutchinson, died Jan. 28, 2012, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Bob was born Feb. 16, 1932, in Duncan, Okla., the son of Emitt and Bertha Splane Avery. He was the father of David Avery of Lyons.
He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1951. He later graduated from Salt City Business College. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Bob owned and operated Avery Trucking in Hutchinson. and later, along with his wife, owned and operated Memory Lane Antiques in Hutchinson. He was a member of New Hope Baptist Church.
Bob married Roberta Totten on Nov. 6, 1951, in Hutchinson. She survives. Other survivors include: two sons, David L. Avery and wife Shree, Lyons, and Scott Avery and wife Denise, Hutchinson; a daughter, Valerie Sue Avery, Hutchinson; a brother, William L. Avery, Hutchinson; a sister, Viola Stamper, Lawton, Oklahoma; three grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Ethel Coupples, Cora Strayer, and Thelma Karriker; a son, Tony Avery in 1969; and a step-grandson, Josh Borders.
Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012, at Elliott Mortuary, with Pastor Harold Nelson presiding. Burial will be at Fairlawn Burial Park with Military Honors by the US Army Honor Guard. Visitation will be Tuesday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the family greeting friends from 7 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, at Elliott Mortuary. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association for research, sent in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, Ks. 67501. Friends may visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave the family a condolence.
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The Lyons News,
January 31, 2012

WILLIAM G. HARMON

William G. “Bill” Harmon, 82, died Jan. 28, 2012 at Rice County District Hospital. He was born Feb. 8, 1929 at Beatrice, Neb., son of Milford George and Dorothy May (Shank) Harmon.
He was a resident of Lyons since 1966. He was a retired operator for Northern Gas Products. He was a member of the First Southern Baptist Church in Salina where he served as a Sunday School teacher, choir director and deacon; former Lions Club and Lyons City Councilman member; member of Lyons Town and Country Club and life member of NRA
He married Patsy Hamilton and they later divorced. He married Marietta (McAdams) Higgins on Oct. 18, 1987 in Lyons. She survives.
Other survivors are three sons, Gary and Chris Harmon of Knoxville, Tenn., Mike and Rhonda Harmon of Bennington and Bill and Debbie Harmon Jr. of Spring, Texas; daughter, Sue and Steve Starr of Denver City, Texas; three step-sons, Dale Higgins of Lyons, Harold and Terry Higgins of Randolph, and Russell and Lori Higgins of Fairmont, Minn.; step-daughter, Cindy and Randy Miller of Albuquerque, N.M.; sister, Carol and Dwight Wood of Salem, Ore.; 17 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by parents; three brothers, Keith, Dale and Lee Harmon and sister, Gayle. Funeral service will be Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Robert Friesen officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials can be made to Bell and Star Fund or Lyons Town and County Club in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News ,
January 31, 2012

GOLDIE HARRISON

Goldie Harrison, 92, died Jan. 26, 2012 at her residence in Alden. She was born Mar. 1, 1919 at Jefferson City, Mo., daughter of Bill and Bessie Winters. She was a longtime resident of Alden.
She was a homemaker. She was a member of Alden Baptist Church and Mid-K Camper, both of Alden.
She married Pete Hooper in 1935 in La Mar, Colo. He preceded her in death in 1958. She married Norman Harrison on Sept. 29, 1959 in Ratone, N.M. He preceded her in death on Feb. 23, 1995.
She is survived by son, Pete Dorsey Hooper of Startford, Calif.; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by two sons, Melvin Hooper and Ron Langel; two daughters, Melzora Owens and Carol McCleskey; two grandchildren, Curtis Hooper, and Mike Langel and several brothers and sisters.
Funeral services will be Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012 at 3 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with Rev. Bob Bethell officiating. Burial will be at Alden Valley Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling from 4 to 7 p.m. with family present. Memorials can be made to Food Depot at Santa Fe, N.M. in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
January 31, 2012

Updated 1/27/12

ADAM JOSEPH BRUNK

Adam Joseph Brunk, 23, died Monday, Jan. 23, 2012. Memorial service will be Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012 at Pleasantview Baptist Church, 1335 N. Buckner, Derby. Reception to follow.
He is survived by his parents Corrine Brunk and Joe and Carolyn Brunk; sister, Krista Brunk; grandmothers, June Markle and Doris Brunk.
In lieu of flowers a memorials can be made to Kansas Humane Society, 3313 N. Hillside, Wichita, KS 67219. Tributes can be viewed at www.smithfamilymortuaries.com.
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The Lyons News,
January 27, 2012

LARRY L. NOVOTNY, JR.

Larry L. Novotny, Jr., 50, died Jan. 25, 2012 at Great Bend Regional Hospital. He was born Oct. 20,1961 in Lincoln, son of Larry L. and C. Joan (Zachgo) Novotny, Sr.
He was a resident of Pathways Rest Care of Great Bend. He was baptized into the First United Methodist Church.
He is survived by his mother, Joan Novotny of Bushton and two brothers, David and Kari Novotny of Colleyville, Texas and Lane Novotny of Hutchinson.
He was preceded in death by his father, Larry L. Novotny, Sr. and grandparents. Graveside service will be Friday, Jan. 27, 2012 at 3:30 p.m. at Bushton Cemetery with Rev. Gene Langhofer officiating. Memorials can be made to the Bushton First United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
January 27, 2012

ELSIE E. DONLEY

Elsie E. Donley, 90, died Jan. 23, 2012 at Good Samaritan Center. She was born Nov. 2, 1921 in Bowdle, S.D., daughter of Emanuel and Eva (Stotz) Neubauer. She was a longtime resident of Lyons.
She was a retail clerk for the former Calhoun’s and a Dillons employee, both of Lyons. She graduated from Lyons High School. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Lyons.
She married Henry “Hank” Lee Donley on April 22, 1948 in Hutchinson. He preceded her in death on Mar. 9, 2007.
She is survived by daughter, Donna and Ken Schwartz of Dayton, Ohio; sister, Ella Fisher of Lyons and one grandchild, Caitlin Schwartz.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Otto Neubauer. Graveside service and burial will be Friday, Jan. 27, 2012 at 1:30 p.m. at Lyons Municipal Cemetery with Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the family present. Memorial can be made to the United Methodist Church or Good Samaritan Center in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
January 27, 2012

JO-ANN A. LAMB

Jo-Ann A. Lamb, 84, died Jan. 24, 2012 at her home in Nickerson. She was born Apr. 16, 1927 in El Dorado, daughter of Fred W. and Helen (Cassatt) Arnall.
She was a resident of Nickerson since 1950, formerly of El Dorado. She graduated from El Dorado High School and El Dorado Junior College. She was a retired funeral director, co-owner of Lamb Funeral Home of Nickerson and former editor of the Nickerson Argosy. She was a member of the former First Christian Church of Nickerson, member of the Midland United Church of Christ in Sterling and the Cameo Club.
She married John C. “Jack” Lamb on Dec. 21, 1947 in El Dorado. She is survived by her husband of the home; three sons, John C. “Chuck” Lamb II of Hiline Lake, Alaska, Chris R. Lamb of Nickerson and Daryl J. lamb of Whitewater; four daughters, Karen A. Lovelock of Nickerson, Karla J. McAllister of Hutchinson, Karie L. Orem of Hutchinson and Karyl K. White of Nickerson; 13 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by an infant son, Chip Lamb; sister,
Alice Corley and great-great-grandson, Tony Martin McAllister.
Funeral service will be Monday, Jan. 30, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at Midland United Church of Christ in Sterling with Revs. Judy Conners and Will Best officiating. Burial will be at Wildmead Cemetery in Nickerson. Visitation will be Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012 from 1 - 6 p.m. at Birzer Funeral home in Sterling. Memorials can be made to Midland United Church of Christ or Nickerson Library in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
January 27, 2012

CLAIR W. SUTTON

Clair W. Sutton, 87, died Jan. 23, 2012 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was born Dec. 28, 1924 in Scott City, son of Leslie and Maude (Epler) Sutton. He was a resident of Lyons since 1957.
He was a delivery man for Meadow Gold Dairy and custodian for USD 405, both of Lyons. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Lyons.
He was married on July 24, 1943 in Colby to Maxine “Bonnie” Wright. She preceded him in death on Oct. 28, 2006.
He is survived by two sons, Randy Sutton of Lyons and Stan Sutton of Lancaster, Texas; brother, D.J. Sutton of St. Louis, Mo.; two sisters, Allie Voelker of Ft. Dodge and Alice Sutton of Garden City; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by an infant son, Rickey Sutton; three brothers, Lonzo, George and Earl Sutton and sister, Alta Mae Brown.
Funeral service will be Friday, Jan. 27, 2012 at 10 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial will be Friday at 3 p.m. at Scott County Cemetery in Scott City. Visitation will be Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home. Memorials can be given to the American heart Association in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
January 27, 2012

Updated 1/22/12

George Dennis Martin
(April 15, 1948 - January 21, 2012)

George Dennis Martin, 63, passed away January 21, 2012 at the Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, Larned.

He was born April 15, 1948 at Great Bend. The son of George Earl and Maxine Salmans Martin. A lifetime area resident; except for 17 years when he was a warehouse manager for Houghton Mifflin Publishing Co., Batavia, IL. He also assisted with the formation of Riverside Publishing Co. Chicago, IL. He was the Managing Editor for the Tiller and Toiler Newspaper.

He was born of the Baptist faith and attended the Sts Mary and Martha Episcopal Church, Larned. He was a 32nd degree Mason, and a member of the Shriners, Scottish Rite, Blue Lodge, Rotary International, Sons of the American Revolution, TKE, Pawnee County Economic Development, Larned Chamber of Commerce, Kansas Press Association and Fort Hays State University Alumni Association.

Survivors include; his mother, Larned, his fiancé, Dolores Wren, Larned, a brother, Robert Earl Martin and wife Janet, Prairie Village, KS six nieces and nephews, and fifteen great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by; his father and a brother Thomas Leslie Martin.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, at the Beckwith Mortuary Chapel with Father Mark Cowell presiding. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday at the Beckwith Mortuary, Larned. Burial with Masonic graveside rites will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned.

Memorials may be given to the Pawnee County Humane Society or the Larned EMS, both in care of the Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550.

MICHAEL ALAN MASON

Michael Alan Mason, 59, died Jan. 22, 2012 north of Lyons on Highway 14 as the result of an auto accident. He was born May 28, 1952 in La Joya, Calif., son of Ed and Arleene (Jurgess) Mason. He was a longtime resident of Geneseo.
He was a truck driver. He graduated from high school in San Diego and received his nursing degree from Barton County Community College. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Geneseo.
He is survived by two sons, Paul Mason of La Mesa, Calif., and Adam Mason of Manhattan; daughter, Kelly Mason Smith of Abilene; mother, Arleene Martin of Geneseo; special friend, Bonny Shively and three grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by two sisters, Robin Anderson and Kathleen “Ivy” Sauer; step-father, Charley Martin.
Funeral service will be Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012 at 1:30 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with reception following at the Bolton Activity Center at Rice County District Hospital. Cremation will follow the service and burial will be in the Geneseo Cemetery at a later date. Rev. Ticia Bennett will officiate the service. Visitation will be Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials can be made to United Methodist Church in Geneseo or Multi Community Diversified Services in McPherson in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
January 24, 2012

Lois G. Hayes

Lois G. Hayes, 100, of McPherson, passed away Friday, Jan. 20, 2012, at The Cedars in McPherson. She was a homemaker and served as the secretary for the McPherson Church of the Brethren and also in the church’s district office.
She was born Dec. 1, 1911, in Vale, Ore., the daughter of Clinton Milo and Agnes May (Law) Lackey. She graduated from high school in Fruitland, Id. and attended McPherson College. She had been a McPherson resident since 1942, moving from Chapman.
On Dec. 29, 1935, she married H. Guy Hayes in Fruitland, Idaho. They were married for 70 years. Guy preceded her in death on Mar. 26. 2006.
Survivors include: a daughter, Gail A. Roe (Nick) of Houston, TX; a sister, Floy LaScala of Santa Monica, CA; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Dr. Larry Hayes, two brothers, Harold and Donald Lackey, and a sister, Wanda Lackey.
The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m., Monday, Jan. 30, 2012, at the McPherson Church of the Brethren. Burial will be at 1:30 p.m. at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons. Visitation will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, at Stockham Family Funeral Home, with the family receiving friends from 2 to 4 p.m.
Memorial donations may be given to the McPherson Church of the Brethren or The Cedars in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home. Personal condolences may be sent to the family via www.stockhamfamily.com.
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The Lyons News,
January 24, 2012

ELISE E. DONLEY

Elise E. Donley, 90, died Jan. 23, 2012 at Good Samaritan Center. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
January 24, 2012

Updated 1/20/12

Rolan Lee Cobb

Rolan Lee Cobb, 74, died Sunday, Jan. 15, 2012. He was born in Oklahoma City, Okla. onJan. 18, 1937, the son of D. Monroe and Zona Susan Hufford Cobb. He was a graduate of Partridge High School, he had been attending Partridge Community Church, was a communications engineer and previous owner of KLOQ radio station.
On Dec. 31, 1977, he married Helen M. Geist in Sterling. She survives. Other survivors include: a daughter, Linda Cobb, Grants Pass, Ore.; a son-in-law, Arlen Nuest, Sterling; four stepsons, Kenneth (Mary) Geist, McPherson, Larry (Barbara) Geist, St. Cloud, Fla., Keith (Lorna) Geist, Bel Aire, and William Ray (Donna) Geist, Sterling; a brother, William (Sally), Wichita; three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, a nephew, and a niece.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Cathy Nuest; his parents; his birth mother, Wanda McBride, and his first wife, Donna Ruth Battin.
Funeral service was at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012, at Partridge Community Church, with Pastor R. Samuel Askew officiating. Burial was in Sterling Community Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be made to Partridge Community Church or Fairview United Methodist Church, in care of the mortuary. Visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a condolence or remembrance for Rolan's family.

LEROY “LEE” CARL LEACH

LeRoy “Lee” Carl Leach, 82, died Jan. 18, 2012 at his residence in Lyons. He was born Aug. 20, 1929 in Dearing, son of Edgar Harl and Serena Roxann (Ambern) Leach. He has been a resident of Lyons since 2004.
He retired after 22 years in the U.S. Air Force, and was an author and a poet. He graduated from Field Kinley High School in Coffeyville and attended San Jose State University. He served during the Korean War as a U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. He was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council #7422, 4th Degree Quivira Council in Great Bend, and V.F.W. and American Legion in Lyons.
He married Frances E. Toole on Dec. 16, 1955 in San Rafael, Calif. She preceded him in death on June 28, 2006. He married Viola Beran Dice on June 2, 2007 in Odin, She survives.
Other survivors are four sons, Anthony Penn of Tulsa, Okla, Douglas Leach of El Paso, Texas, Kevin Leach of Chandler, Ariz., Bryan Leach of Lyons; adopted son, Dr. Kirk Russell of New Jersey; three daughters, Valarie Parton, Maria Campbell, both of Colorado Springs, Colo., Vicky Jefers of Omaha, Neb.; step-daughter, Patricia Ann Walker of San Marcos, Calif; 17 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; one step-granddaughter and one step-great-grandson.
He was preceded in death by son, Kenneth Leach; twin brother, Leo H. Leach; two brothers, Raymond Leach, Leland Leach; three sisters, Lenna Perry, Lilly Dufoe and Marie Moore.
Funeral service will be Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Tony Penn officiating, and with Military Honors by McConnell Air Force. Memorials can be made to Hospice Care of Kansas in care of the funeral home.

Brooke A. Minor

Brooke A. Minor, 22, died Jan. 16, 2012, at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas. She was born May 26, 1989, in Dodge City, the daughter of Kirby and Laurie Lies Minor.
She was an office manager at NCAA 2012 Men's Final Four, New Orleans, La. She graduated from Minneola High School in 2007 and Sterling College in 2011 with a degree in sports management. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Lewis and Esther Minor; and her maternal grandfather, Rodney Lies. She is survived by her parents; a brother, Bryce Minor and wife Amy of Blanchard, Okla.; two sisters, Kara and Morgan Minor, both of Minneola; maternal grandmother, Karol Lies of Minneola; and her fiance Travis Highfill and his daughter, Peyton, of Belle Chase, La.
Funeral will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, at the Minneola High School Gymnasium, with Reverend Kip Ryherd officiating. Calling times are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20, 2012, at Minnis Mortuary, Minneola. Burial in Appleton Township Cemetery, near Minneola. Memorials to Brooke Minor Fund in care of Minnis Mortuary, PO Box 459, Minneola, KS 67865.

KARENCATHLEEN MAYFIELD

Karen Cathleen Mayfied, 55, died Jan. 18, 2012 at her residence. She was born Jan. 2, 1957 in San Anna, Calif. daughter of George and Estelle Susan (Nickens) Brown. She was a resident of Lyons since 2009, formerly of Hutchinson.
She was a homemaker and a member of Central Christian Center in Joplin, Mo.
She is survived by three sons, Jarrod Matthew Mayfield of Hutchinson, M.G. Wesley Hylton-Brown of Cimarron, and Robert William Mayfield of Nortonville; five grandchildren; four brothers, James M. Brown of Hutchinson, Ralph W. Brown of San Antonio, Texas, Kevin D. Brown of Ponchatoula, La. and Jeff Brown of Lyons; two sisters, Lori Sears of Lyons and Shirley Jowers of Sterling.
She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents. Funeral service will be Monday, Jan. 23, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home. Memorials can be made to Lung Cancer Research or Karen Mayfield expense fund in care of the funeral home.

Updated 1/17/12

Laverne Hunter

Laverne Hunter, 97, died Dec. 16, 2011. She was born Dec. 31, 1913, in Geneseo, to Louis and Della Heitschmidt. She worked for Corrick's on Fourth St. in Santa Rosa, Calif. for 30 years, retiring in 1994.
Survivors include a brother, Morris Heitschmidt of McPherson.
At her request, there will be no service. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
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ROBERT EUGENE (BOB) GRAVES

Robert Eugene (Bob) Graves, 81, died Jan. 3, 2012 in Alva, Okla. He was born June 23, 1930, the son of William Columbus and Agnes Josephine (Schumm) Graves. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Patricia Ann (Jones) Graves; his eight children, Mary Turnbow of Geneseo, Suzie Reynolds of St. Joe, Mo, Russel Graves of Kiowa, Laura Nittler of Medicine Lodge, Roberta Trent of Wichita, Chuck Graves of Kiowa, Cecilia Williams of Bartlesville, Okla., and Leo Graves of Tulsa, Okla,, and their spouses, 21 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Bob was a member of St. John the Apostle Catholic Church of Kiowa, and was a charter member of the Kowa Knights of Columbus, Council #7373. He was a third degree knight in the Knights of Columbus serving as District Deputy and Grand Knight and being named Oklahoma Knight of the Year while a member of the Alva, Oklahoma Council. Online condolences may be made at www.lanmanmemorials.com.
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MELVIN D. THOMPSON

Melvin D. Thompson, 85, died Jan. 13, 2012 at his residence in Arlington. He was born Mar. 30, 1926 in Larned, son of Edward A. and Catherine (Evers) Thompson. He was a resident of Arlington since 1984, formerly of Larned. He was the father of Karml Blumanhourst of Lyons.
He was a retired owner/operator truck driver. He graduated from Larned High School. He was a U.S Army veteran serving during World War II. He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in So. Hutchinson; former Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Larned; VFW and American Legion both of Larned.
He married Carol L. Keenan on July 17, 1948 in Colorado Springs, Colo. She preceded him in death on Apr. 7, 2011.
He is survived by four sons, Dan & Kay Thompson of Pawnee Rock, Kim & Joy Thompson of Topeka, Randall Thompson of Pretty Prairie, Kevin & Marie Thompson of Wichita; three daughters, Karml & Randy Blumanhourst of Lyons, Krystl Thompson of Hutchinson, Kandi Smith and Doug Ramey of Ft. Worth, Texas; one sister, Irene Reynolds of Oregon; 27 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by daughter, Kelcy Thompson; son-in-law, Mike Smith; grandson, Justin Thompson; granddaughter, Kara Hogan; brothers, Velmar Thompson and Russell Thompson; and sisters, Eleanor Winkler and Ethel Ford.
Funeral mass will be Friday, Jan. 20, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Seward with Parish Rosary at 10 a.m. with Father Rene Guesnier officiating. Burial will be at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Seward with military honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Vigil service will be Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012 at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in South Hutchinson. Memorials, in lieu of flowers, can be made to Senior Center of Arlington in care of Birzer Funeral Home of Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
January 17, 2012

GERALD R. “JERRY” KLINE

Gerald R. “Jerry” Kline, 80, died Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012 at Hays Medical Center. He was born Nov. 12, 1931 at Lacrosse to Edmond and Charlet (Schaffer) Kline. He married Mary Anne (Taylor) on April 24, 1952 at Lacrosse.
Survivors include, his wife, Mary Anne Kline, of the home; one son, Mike Kline of Hays; two daughters, Debbie Leiker and husband, Ron of Lyons; Susan Willming and husband, Kent of Hays; three sister, Bernice Stegman and husband, Sy of Enid, Okla.; Shirley Urban of LaCrosse; Eileen Love and husband, Jack of Great Bend; four grandchildren, Lachelle Spann and husband Shawn, Latasha Southern and husband Bryce, Brett Leiker and wife Andrea, Brian Leiker and wife Kalie.
Services were Monday, Jan. 16, 2012 at St. Michaels Catholic Church in LaCrosse. Burial was in LaCrosse City Cemetery with military honors by the Hays V.F.W. American legion.
Memorials can be made to Rush County Nursing Home, Rush County Memorial Hospital and Dreiling/Schmidt Cancer Center.
Condolences can be sent via e-mail to clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net.
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JANET MARIE GRIFFIN

Janet Marie Griffin, 62, died Jan. 14, 2012 at Salina Regional Health Center. She was born May, 16, 1949 at Sterling, daughter of Roy M. Griffin and Dorothy M. Owens.
She was a longtime resident of Ellinwood and graduated from Ellinwood District High School in 1967. She attended Ft. Hays State University. She retired from Sunflower Diversified Services in Great Bend. She was a member of VFW and American Legion Auxilary, both of Ellinwood.
She is survived by two daughters, Sandra Ritterhouse of Ellinwood and Brandi Smith of Haysville; brother, Larry Griffin of Shawnee; two aunts, Louise Hellinger of Wagoner, Okla. and Norma Jurratt of Lyndon, Texas; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Services will be Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Kimple Funeral Chapel in Ellinwood with Rev. Don Paden officiating. Burial will be at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. Memorials can be made to Janet Griffin Fund, in care of Kimple Funeral Home, P.O. Box 246, Ellinwood, Kansas 67526.
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Diana C. Graf

Diana C. Graf, 69, died Dec. 29, 2011, at St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. She was born Aug. 18, 1942, in Sterling, daughter of Harold and Helen Thornbury Proffitt. She worked at the community hospital in Onaga.
She married Jerry Graf June 6, 1965. He survives with son, Ted of Onaga; daughter, Kim Brewer of North Richland Hill, Texas; brother, Arlen "Butch" Proffitt of Hutchinson; and three grandchildren.
Memorials can be made to New Hope Lutheran Church, in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, P.O. Box 312, Onaga.
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Updated 1/13/12

Sandra Kay Gram

Sandra Kay Gram, daughter of Mildred Miller, passed away on December 23, 2011 after a prolonged illness. She was born on June 1, 1944 in Coffeyville, Kansas to the union of Mildred and Cecil Miller. She was a 1962 graduate of Lyons High School and earned her bachelor’s degree from Southern Colorado College. Sandra moved to Pueblo, Colorado in 1973 and made it her lifelong home.
She was a Farmers Insurance agent for over twenty years. A sign on her office door said “chat room” where friends and clients would come to talk. Sandra believed in volunteering, and gave countless hours to various organizations including Junior League of Pueblo. She was co-chair and the only unpaid participant in Drive Smart Pueblo for many years, receiving awards and distinctions. She also spent countless hours in her yard where she cultivated flowers of pink, blue and purple.
Sandra is survived by her mother, Mildred Miller of Lyons, KS, brothers Gerald (Jospehine) Miller of Oklahoma, and Curtis (Jessica) Miller of Ohio; son Jason (Lori) Gram of Ft. Collins, Colorado and daughter Jennifer (Mark) Welte of Pueblo, Colorado; grandchildren Austin, Anabelle, Abigail, Elizabeth and Joseph. She was predeceased by her father, Cecil W. Miller.
A memorial service to celebrate her life is being planned for Memorial Day weekend.
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The Lyons News,
January 13, 2012

Updated 1/10/12

DANIEL PATTON SNYDER

Daniel Patton Snyder, 54, died Jan. 7, 2012 at Via Christi St. Francis Regional Medical Center in Wichita. He was born Aug. 22, 1957 in Lyons, son of Dale H. and Marilyn Patton Snyder. He was a lifetime resident of Lyons.
He was President of The Lyons State Bank. He graduated from Lyons High School in 1975, attended Hutchinson Community College and Emporia State University. He graduated from the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Lyons; board member of the Rice Co. District Hospital #1; Director and Chairman of the Board of The Lyons State Bank; Past President and former board member of Kansas Agricultural Rural Leadership (KARL); former board member of Kansas Bankers Association; Past President and Ambassador of Lyons Chamber of Commerce and Liars Fishing Club.
He married Karen Shellenberger on March 14, 1987 in Lyons. He is survived by his wife of the home; two daughters, Jadyn and Julianne of the home; father and step-mother, Dale and Barbara Snyder of Hutchinson; brother, David and Terrie Snyder of Cottonwood, Ariz.; two sisters, Melinda and Glenn Chambers of Hutchinson and Susan Crosby of Sterling; numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Marilyn Snyder; grandparents, H.H. and Edna Snyder and Dwight and Hazel Patton.
Memorial service will be Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012 at the First United Methodist Church in Lyons at 2 p.m. with a reception immediately following in the fellowship hall. Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett will officiate. Private family burial will be in the Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Friends may sign the book from 2 - 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials can be made to KARL, Rice Community Healthcare Foundation or Lyons High School Band Department in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
January 10, 2012

GERALD F. BLISS

Gerald F. Bliss, 84, died Jan. 8, 2012 at Good Samaritan Center in Lyons. He was born March 29, 1927 at Los Angeles, Calif. son of Howard and Roxanne (Bishop) Bliss.
He was a resident of Lyons for seven years, formerly of Littleton, Colo. and Ventura, Calif. He was owner of Bliss Landscaping. He graduated from Cal State in Pamona, Calif. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during World War II. He was a member of Sespe Flyfishers of Ventura, Calif. and the Federation of Fly Fisherman.
He is survived by two sons, Kevin Bliss of Great Bend and Darrel Bliss of Chase; daughter, Melonee Stringari of Ocean Beach, Calif; two brothers, Howard Bliss of Virginia and Lyman Bliss of Austria; two sisters, Laura Wesley of Kalispell, Mont. and Sharon Betts of Flathead Lake, Mont.; and one grandson.
There will be no funeral service per his request. Memorials can be made to Sespe Flyfishers Conservation Fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Lyons, Kansas 67554.
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The Lyons News,
January 10, 2012

MAXINE JONES

Maxine Jones, 82, died Jan. 6, 2012, at Mennonite Friendship Manor, South Hutchinson. She was born Feb. 12, 1929, in Chase, Kan., the daughter of Charley D. and Bessie L. Watson Ruark.
A graduate of Chase High School, Maxine was raised in the Nazarene Chu rch. She was a longtime resident of Florida, returning to Kansas after nearly 35 years in 1998. She was a waitress and cook, and owned and operated a restaurant in Orlando, Fla. She is survived by her children, Joyce Fore of McPherson, Judi Cain and husband Stuart of Woodinville, Wash., Charles Hermann and wife Peggy of Tulsa, Okla., and Duane Hermann of Florida; sister, Donna Lackey of Hutchinson; brother, Bill Ruark and wife Twila of Wichita; seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her sister, Bessie Healey; and two brothers, Dale and Charles Jr.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, 2012, at the Mennonite Friendship Manor Chapel, 600 W. Blanchard, South Hutchinson, with Chaplain David Denlinger presiding. Cremation has taken place. Register book will be available at the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent in care of Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home to the Mennonite Friendship Manor or Hospice Care of Kansas. Please visit www.penwellgabelhutchinson.com to leave personal condolences for the family.
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The Lyons News,
January 10, 2012

MAURICE WINKELMAN

Maurice Winkelman, 89, died Jan. 5, 2012 at Ellinwood District Hospital. He was born June 15, 1922 in Rice County, son of Carl and Lydia (Sewing) Winkelman.
He attended OK Grade School and graduated from Chase High School. He was a farmer before working 30 years with the U.S. Postal Service as a mail clerk, and rural mail carrier. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Ellinwood. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II.
He married Eloise Suhler on Jan. 18, 1948 at Ellinwood. He is survived by his wife of the home; three sons, Bruce (Jeanette) Winkelman of Tulsa, Okla., Monte (Mariana) Windelman of Sioux City, Iowa, Tim (Karen) Winkelman of Great Bend; daughter, Lois Sierra of Lawrence; brother, Ralph Winkelman of Rockport, Texas; sister, Verda Everett of Van Wert, Ohio; six grandchildren and three great-granddaughters.
He was preceded in death by brothers Lavern, Lovell and Steve Winkelman and a sister, Doris Rice.
Service was Monday, Jan. 9, 2012 at St John Lutheran Church in Ellinwood with Pastor Jeff Frakes officiating. Burial was at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. Memorials can be made to Child Development Center or to St. John Lutheran Church.
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The Lyons News,
January 10, 2012

DUANE VAN HORN

Duane Van Horn, 90, died Jan. 9, 2012 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was born Aug. 27, 1921 at Sabetha, son of H.C. and Hazel B. (Kramer) Van Horn.
He was a longtime resident of Lyons and Little River area. He was a farmer. He graduated from Lyons High School and Kansas State University. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during World War II. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, United Methodist Men of Little River and Master Farmer of Kansas in 1974.
He married Erma Bruenger on Oct. 30, 1949 at Humboldt. She preceded him in death on June 12, 2006.
He is survived by son, Darrell Van Horn of Corsicana, Texas; daughter, Linda J. and Randy Willt of Lyons; one granddaughter, Jenna Willt and mother, Ethel Van Horn of McPherson.
Funeral services will be Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at United Methodist Church in Little River with Pastor Theresa Forshee officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery with military honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Visitation will be Friday, Jan. 13, 2012 from 2 - 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family present from 6 to 7 p.m. Memorials can be made to United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
January 10, 2012

Updated 1/5/12

Dennis L. Cain

Dennis Lee Cain, 62, died Dec. 29, 2011, at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Wichita. He was born Jan. 5, 1949 in Lyons, son of Arthur Lee and Parrie-Dell Randle Cain, and graduated from Lyons High School in 1967.
He married Margaret Ann Hughes June 2, 1989 at Leoti. She survives with daughter, Jonell (Jeremy) Sekavec of Garden City; sister, Dana Cain; and three grandchildren.
Graveside service will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012 at Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons, with Father James E. Baker officiating.Visitation from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday at Birzer-Sillin Funeral Home, Lyons. Memorials may be made to MDS Foundation in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 412 N. 7th, Garden City, Ks, 67846.
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The Lyons News,
January 3, 2012

Mark J. Cook

Mark J. Cook, 56, of Hutchinson, died Dec. 30, 2011, at his home. He was the father of Amber Champe of Lyons. He was born Aug. 9, 1955, in McPherson, the son of George and Gloria Hutchinson Cook. He was a welder and loved riding Harleys.
On Aug. 1, 2003, he married Amanda Poe in Hutchinson, she survives. Other survivors include: children, Justin Cook of Hutchinson, Jeremy Champe of Arizona, Angela Champe of Hutchinson, Amber Champe of Lyons and Hannah Poe of Hutchinson; two sisters, Mary Rockefellar of McPherson and Georgia Premer of Hutchinson; brother, Gary Cook of Washington; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Matthew Cook and John P. Spriggs.
Memorial Service will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday Jan. 3, 2012 at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home and Crematory in Hutchinson. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the Mark Cook Memorial Fund, in care of the funeral home. Visit www.PenwellGabelHutchinson.com to leave the family a personal message.
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The Lyons News,
January 3, 2012

Laura J. Nelson

Laura J. Nelson, 78, died Dec. 31, 2011, at Good Samaritan Center, Lyons, Kan. She was born July 21, 1933, in Lyons, the daughter of Paul C. and Margery May Duke Harvey.
A lifetime Lyons resident, she was a waitress for several Lyons restaurants and employee of H & S Laundry, a graduate of Lyons High School in 1951 and a member of the Church of Christ in Lyons. She married John Nelson June 5, 1953, in Geneseo. Survivors include: her husband, John of the home; son, Jim Nelson of Lyons; sister, Hellen Tucker of Lyons; grandson, Chris Nelson of the home; and an additional five grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, Harold Dean Nelson and Edward Eugene Nelson.
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012, at the Church of Christ of Lyons, with Robert Taverner officiating, with burial in Lyons Municipal Cemetery, Lyons. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons, with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials may be made to Center for Basic Cancer Research KSU or Church of Christ, in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
January 3, 2012

Leo J. Pickerill

Leo J. Pickerill, 85, died Dec. 30, 2011 at Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. He was born Feb. 8, 1926 in Lyons, the son of Jess Sr. and Gertrude Truesdell Pickerill. A lifetime Lyons resident, he worked as a farm implement mechanic for Trowbridge & Pickerill Massey Ferguson implement dealership. He served in the U.S, Army during World War II, in the 28th Cavalry of the 28th Infantry Recon Division. He was a member of the American Legion, and a former captain of the Lyons fire department.
He married Rosalie Worth on Aug. 26, 1945 in Sterling. She died April 10, 1996. He is survived by a son, Roger (Betsy) Pickerill of Avondale, Az.; three grandchildren, Ashley, Lindsey, Michaela, and friend Jeff Young.
He was preceded in death by brothers Jess Pickerell, Jr., and Howard Pickerill; sisters Thelma Pickerill Janssen and Flora Pickerell Trowbridge.
Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Robert Taverner officiating. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. till service time on Wednesday. Burial will be in Lyons Municipal Cemetery with military honors by Fort Riley Honor Guard and honors by the Lyons Fire Department.
Memorials may be given to Lyons Fire Department or Hospice in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
January 3, 2012

ARNOLD L. JOHNSTON

Arnold L. Johnston, 96, died Dec. 18, 2011 at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. He was born Jan. 18, 1915 in Lyons, son of Homer and Lillie Welday.
He was a longtime resident of Lyons and Little River. He was a retired farmer. He graduated from Lyons High School. He was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Lyons.
He married Lois Genevieve Manassa on Oct. 20, 1939 in McPherson. She preceded him in death on June 16, 2004. He is survived by daughter, Joanna M. Kilroy of Seminole, Fla.; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by son-in-law, Edward J. Kilroy; brother, Clark Johnston; sister, Mildred Sidwell; grandchildren, Margaret M. Kilroy and James M. Kilroy; great-granddaughter, Alexandra Rubiella.
Funeral service will be Friday, Jan. 6, 2011 at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Little River. The casket will remain closed. Father Robert Spencer will officiate. Burial will be at Bean memorial Cemetery in Little River along with that of Edward J. Kolroy and Alexandra Rubiela. Memorials can be made to Sandstone Heights Nursing Home or donor’s choice in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
January 3, 2012

AL HARMS

Al (Alvin) Harms, 89, was born Feb. 27, 1922 in Boyd, Okla. to Isaac and Emma C. (Neufeld) Harms, the sixth of nine brothers and sisters. He died Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011 at his home in South Hutchinson. He was the father of Cindy Hogan of Little River. He was a member of Mennonite Brethren Church all his life, serving in many capacities over the years, and served on the board of the Mennonite Mutual Aid and Property for several years. Al became a Christian as a teenager and was baptized in the river near his country church in Grant Count. He attended Spring Valley School until the ninth grade.
Al met the love of his life, Annie Harms in Ulysses and they married Aug. 31, 1948 in Blaine, Wash. She survives. They had 63 years together and raised five children. He worked at Kansas Power and Light as an operator for 35 years. Other survivors include: daughters, Clariece Kohlhorst and husband Carl of Syracuse, Rhonda Harms of Lawrence, Cindy Hogan and husband Scott of Little River; sisters, Ruby Schmidt of Hutchinson, Berniece Givan of Denver, Colo.; brothers, Johnny Harms of Mena, Ark., Clarence Harms of New Wilmington, Pa.; 12 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
Al was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jim Harms; daughter, Beverly McElvain; brothers, David and Isaac Harms; sisters, Edna Kliewer, Anna Mae Goertzen, and Luella Schultz.
Funeral services were Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011, at Elliott Mortuary Chapel, with Pastor Garvie Schmidt officiating. Burial was Saturday, Dec. 31, 2011, at Ulysses Cemetery in Ulysses. Memorials may be made to Mennonite Brethren Church or Mennonite Manor in care of Elliott Mortuary. Please visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a condolence for Al’s family.
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The Lyons News,
January 3, 2012

Updated 12/30/11

WARREN E. ROGERS

Warren E. Rogers, 87, died Dec. 24, 2011 at the Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River.
He was born April 15, 1924, in Iuka, Ill., to Floyd and Lillie Bryant Rogers. He had been a resident of Little River since 1983.
He worked as an oil field pumper, truck driver, and bus driver for USD 444 in Little River. He served on Little River’s City Council, attended United Methodist Church in Little River, and was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during WWII.
He married Rose M. Meyer on Dec. 2, 1944 in Salem, Ill..
He is survived by his wife of the home, two sons; Gene and Debbie Rogers of Little River, Larry and Dana Rogers of Galva; daughter Mary and Robert Williams of Little River; brother, Ralph and Alice Rogers of Lyons; three sisters, Alieta Meyer of Little River, Marina Slater of Odin, Ill., and Winifred Huff of Salem, Ill.; eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son, Roy Dale Rogers; brothers Ervin, Glenn and Morris Rogers; sisters, Erma Norris, Mildred Rogers, Thelma Crane, and Opal Osborne; and great-granddaughter Kylie Hamm.
Services were held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011, at the United Methodist Church in Little River with Pastor Theresa Forshee officiating.
Burial was at the Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River with military honors by the Fort Riley Honor Guard.
Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of Kansas, United Methodist Church, or Sandstone Heights Nursing home in care of the Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
December 30, 2011

NORMAN H. QUINLAN

Norman H. Quinlan, 76, of Lyons died on December 23, 2011, at the Golden Plains Healthcare Center in Hutchinson.
He was born July 29, 1935, in Alva, Okla., to Ray and Reva Wiggins Quinlan. He was retired from the Pepsi Cola Bottling Co., a veteran of the U.S. Army, graduated from Lyons High School, and was a member of the First Christian Church in Lyons.
He is survived by two daughters; Stephanie Hyde of Andover, Minn., Melissa Velasquez of Shelton, Conn.; and five grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Gary and Ronald Quinlan.
Services were held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 29, at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery with Rev. Robert Friesen officiating.
Visitation was held from 9 a.m. until service time at the Birzer Funeral Home.
Memorials to the Bell & Star Fund suggested, in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
December 30, 2011

REX W. FRANCIS

Rex W. Francis, 77, died Dec. 27, 2011 at Lyons Good Samaritan Center. He was born Feb. 26, 1934 in Miltonvale, son of Emory and Neva (Geist) Francis.
He was a resident of Geneseo since 1964. He was an employee of Enron. He graduated from Clifton High School in 1952. He was a member of United Methodist Church of Geneseo, former Scout Master for Troop 171, former Geneseo City Councilman and Mayor, fireman, police officer and Court Judge.
He married Lenora Hill on June 2, 1952 in Clifton. He is survived by his wife of the home; three sons, Mike Francis, of the home, Kenny and Candy Francis of Geneseo, and David and Kammie Francis of Tyrone, Okla.; two daughters, Cathy and Steve Holmes of Geneseo and Chris and Jerry Schroeder of Tyrone, Okla.; brother, Max Francis; sister, Betty Rhodes of Clifton; ten grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Jean Singleton, Marge Sipe and Phyllis Jackson; three brothers, Maurice, Dean and Lee Francis; and son-in-law, Clyde Sneath.
Graveside service will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 30 at Geneseo Cemetery with Rev. Steve Holmes officiating. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 29 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials can be made to Lyons Good Samaritan Center or United Methodist Church of Geneseo in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
December 30, 2011

MARVIN M. CAMPBELL

Marvin M. Campbell, 70, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, at the Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson.
He was born on Oct. 5, 1941, in Ellsworth to George M. and Georgia Hoffman Campbell.
He was a longtime resident of Little River and worked for T.M. Deal Lumber Co. in Little River, then was a truck driver for Venture Corp., and later he worked for Hi Plains in Kanopolis.
He married Beverly Jo Larsen on June 18, 1961, in Ellinwood.
He is survived by his wife of the home; son, Darrian Campbell of Hutchinson; two daughters, Collette Scofield of Hutchinson, Misty Weaver of Little River; two brothers, George Campbell of Lyons, and Wayne Campbell of Great Bend; six sisters, Phyllis Cassingham and Betty Birka of Little River, Velma Hart of Hutchinson, Bernice Keehner of Salina, Margaret Morgart of Sterling, and Joyce Enlow of Lyons; five grandchildren and three great -grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Jack, Charles, Kenneth and Donald Campbell; and infant sister, Imo Gene.
Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 29, at the Congregational Church in Little River with Pastor Ted Weis officiating. Burial will be at the Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River.
Memorials suggested to the Marvin Campbell Medical Expense Fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
December 30, 2011

Updated 12/23/11

VELVA JUNE BRADFORD

Velva June Bradford went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Dec. 20, 2011 at the Lyons Good Samaritan Center at the age of 91. She was born July 9, 1920 in Protection, daughter of Ora A. and Flossie Holdeman Manny.
She was a resident of Lyons since 1943. She was a bookkeeper for Duckwalls and a USD 405 employee. She graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1938. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Lyons, AARP treasurer and Priscilla Club. She married Melvin Lee “Pete” Bradford on April 11, 1942, at Burbank, Calif. and he preceded her in death on March 29, 2004.
She is survived by three sons, Dennis and Sandra Bradford of Mayfield West, N.S.W, Australia; Richard and Victoria Bradford of Mesa, Ariz.; and Larry Bradford of Lyons; one daughter, Barbara and Tom Harwood of Pansey, Ala.; two sisters, Betty Short of La Junta, Colo.; Margery Burgman of Leonardville; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Melvin Lee Manny; one sister, Dorothy “Dot” Harris and one great-granddaughter, Mckensie Melton.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, Dec. 28 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Lyons with Rev. Joel Grizzle officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday, Dec. 27 from 2 to 7 p.m. with family present from 5 to 7 p.m., at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials can be made to Lyons Good Samaritan Center or First Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
December 23, 2011

DONALD K. SPAENY

Donald K. Spaeny, 86, of Hutchinson, died Dec. 21, 2011 at Hospice House. He was born Nov. 16, 1925, at Lyons, the son of Ernest C. and Ora Kathryn Runkle Spaeny.
He graduated from Lyons High School and was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in World War II. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and a lifetime member of both the Lysle Rishel Post #68 of the American Legion, where he was Past Commander; and the Hoisington V.F.W. Post #7428. He was a retired automotive industrial equipment representative for Stewart-Warner.
He married Alberta J. Humphrey on Jan. 4, 1948, in Hoisington. She survives. Other survivors include: three sons, Michael C. (Twila) Spaeny of Hutchinson, Mark A .(Reja) Spaeny of Springfield, Mo., and Matthew J (Mykl) Spaeny of Yukon, Okla.; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 23, 2011, at Elliott Mortuary in Hutchinson, with the Rev. Jim Rhaesa presiding. Burial will be in Penwell-Gabel Cemetery and Mausoleum, Hutchinson, with military honors provided by the U.S. Army Honor Guard from Fort Riley, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Prairie Honor Flight, sent in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, Ks., 67501.
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The Lyons News
December 23 2011

KATHERINE NEUFELD ENSZ

Katherine Neufeld Ensz, mother of Lyons Good Samaritan administrator Orie Ensz, died Dec. 9, 2011 at Lyons. She was born Nov. 29, 1924 at Inman to Abraham T. and Anna E. Ediger Neufeld. She married Rev. Elmer Ensz on July 27, 1947. He died in 2005.
She is survived by five sons; Orie (Janie) Ensz of Sterling, David (Aline) Ensz of Studio City, Ca., Marion (Sandy) Ensz of Shoreview, Mn., Mark (Connie) Ensz of Corn, Okla., and Steve (Lesa) Ensz of Garden City; one daughter Christine Ensz of Inman; 22 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Other survivors include brother Cornelius Neufeld and sisters Margaret Wiebe and Sally Wiens.
Preceding her in death were her parents and sisters: Lena Thiessen, Marie Gilley, Anna Jantz, and Linda Neufeld; brothers: Henry Neufeld, Dan Neufeld, and Abe Neufeld.
Services will be held at Zoar Mennonite Brethren Church in Inman on Dec. 26, 2011 beginning with lunch at 11 a.m. for family and friends. Visitation will be from noon to 2 p.m. with memorial service at 2 p.m. Graveside service will follow at the rural Zoar Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to Micaela Ensz college education fund through the People’s Bank of Inman; Zoar Church, Good Samaritan of Lyons, or Central Christian School through Buhler Mortuary, who is in charge of funeral arrangements.
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The Lyons News
December 23, 2011

Updated 12/20/11

JOSEPHINE E. VAN HORN

Former Sterling resident and Sterling High School graduate Josephine E. Van Horn of Wichita died Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011 at Harry Hynes Hospice, Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita.
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The Lyons News,
December 20, 2011

ARNOLD JOHNSTON

Arnold Johnston, 96, died Dec. 18, 2011 at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. He was born Jan. 18, 1915. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
December 20, 2011

VERLEE ADAM

Sterling native Verlee Adam of El Dorado, died on Nov. 30, 2011 at Susan B. Allen Memoral Hospital in El Dorado. Celebration of life services were held Saturday, Dec. 17 at the First Presbyterian Church of El Dorado.
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The Lyons News,
December 20, 2011

Updated 12/16/11

WILLIS H. ALDERMAN

Willis H. Alderman, 88 died Nov. 26, 2011. He was born Aug. 22, 1923 to Donald and Esther (Ball) Alderman at Lyons. On Aug. 31, 1947, he married Dorothy Meyers.
He was a geologist for Standard Oil for 36 years. He is survived by his wife of the home; two sons, Robert and Philip; three grandchildren and five great grandchildren; and two brothers Charles Alderman and Les Alderman of Lyons.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Margaret Manos. Services were held Dec. 9 at Shepherd of the Hills Presbyterian Church in Lakewood, Colo.
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The Lyons News
December 19, 2011

Updated 12/13/11

DELORESANN GERMAN

Deloresann German, 77, died Dec. 9, 2011 in Hutchinson. She was born Sept. 17, 1934 in Salina, daughter of Belvin and Mala Miller Fisher.
She was a longtime resident of Little River, formerly of Salina. She was a retired dietary manager at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. She graduated from Salina Central High in 1954.
She married Charles Lewis Hanson in 1954 in Salina. He preceded her in death in 1973. She married Myron Leslie German in 1979 in Little River.
She is survived by husband of the home; two sons, Rodney Joe (Jeannie) Hanson of Salina, Charles D. (Jackie) Hanson of Cheyenne, Wy.; two daughters, Tammy (Fred) Fanning of Fredericksburg, Va., Pam (Brian) Lowe of Salina; seven grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by brother, Dick Fisher. Graveside service will be Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011 at 11 a.m. at Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River with Pastor Theresa Forshee officiating. Burial will be at Bean memorial Cemetery in Little River. Memorials can be made to Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in care of Birzer Funeral home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News December 13, 2011

JESSIE SALINAS

Jessie Salinas, 50, died Dec. 10, 2011 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. He was born Jan. 9, 1961 in Clovis, N.M., son of Alberto and Mary Rodriquez Salinas.
He was a resident of Lyons since 1983. He was a farmer. He graduated from Geary High School in Geary, Okla. He was a member of El Camino Christian Fellowship in Lyons.
He married Anna Marie Immesote on June 5, 1998 in Lyons. He is survived by his wife of the home; son, Mathew Trammell of Lyons, two daughters, Ciera Villanueva of Lyons and Cheyene Salinas of the home; mother, Mary Salinas of Savannah, Ga.; four brothers, Armando Hernandez of Watonga, Okla., Joe Salinas, Pepe Salinas, both of Cherokee, Okla., Paul Salinas of Stillwater, Okla. and John Salinas of Richmond, Va.; four sisters, Norma Rose of Hernando, Miss., Linda Gaymon of Savannah, Ga., Sarah Sides of Royston, Ga. and Diane Rubio of Aurora, Co.; three grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father. Funeral services will be Friday, Dec. 16, 2011 at 2 p.m. at Birzer Funeral home in Lyons with Rev. Oscar Gomez officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home of Lyons with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials can be made to Jessie Salinas Expense Fund in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News December 13, 2011

12/10/11

H. DUANE HALTOM

H. Duane Haltom Sr., 76, died Dec. 6, 2011, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born March 23, 1935, at Sterling, the son of Roscoe and Maxine Hughes Haltom.
He was a 1953 graduate of Alden High School, a member of First United Methodist Church, Hutchinson, United Methodist Men, Crimestoppers of Reno County and was in law enforcement for 43 years working for Reno County Sheriff's Department, Kansas Highway Patrol and Kansas Department of Revenue as a special investigator.
On Dec. 16, 1954, he married Mary Jane Tucker in Hutchinson. She survives. Other survivors include: their children and spouses, Randall and Polly of Hutchinson, Duane Jr. of Wichita, Cindy and Larry Kerschner of Hutchinson, Debi and Terry Porter of Shawnee, Jack of Rozel, Kan.; eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and twin brother, Dwight.
Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011, at First United Methodist Church, Hutchinson, with Pastors Mark Conard and Jeanine Rishel officiating. Burial will be in Penwell-Gabel Cemetery and Mausoleum, with Kansas Highway Patrol Honors. Friends may call from 1 to 9 p.m. Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday with family present from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday at Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, Hutchinson. Memorial gifts may be made to the National Jewish Health Center Research for Pulmonary Fibrosis, Hospice of Reno County or to the church, in care of the mortuary.
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The Lyons News
December 9, 2011

HEIDI NOELLE WOOLERY

Heidi Noelle Woolery, 36, died on Friday, Dec. 2, 2011. She was born Dec. 22, 1974 in Wichita.
She was active in ballet and tap dancing and swimming. She worked in the hospitality industry and was a member of the Culinary Union.
She is survived by her parents, Candace (Rick) Rowe and Robert (Cindy) Lee of Wichita and half-sister, Jacy Zimmerman.
Graveside service will be Monday, Dec. 12, 2011 at 2 p.m. at Geneseo Cemetery in Geneseo with Rev. Robert Friesen officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials can be made to Kansas Humane Society or YWCA Women’s Crisis Center in Wichita in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News
December 9, 2011

CLARICE F. CAYWOOD

Clarice F. Caywood, 99, died Dec. 1, 2011 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was born Nov. 10, 1912 in Sterling, daughter of Amos and Fay Bogie Fox.
She was a lifetime resident of Sterling and Alden. She was an operator for Southwestern Bell. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alden.
She married Chester C. Caywood on Nov. 24, 1930 in Newton. He preceded her in death on Oct. 20, 1999.
She is survived by son, Charles and Zoe Caywood of Rogers, Ark.; sister, Esther Mae Stephens of Falls City, Neb.; four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one brother, Bud Fox and a sister, Viola Tilton.
Funeral service will be Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011 at 2 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with Rev. Bob Bethell officiating. Burial will be at Alden Valley Cemetery. Memorials can be made to First Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
December 6, 2011

EARL H. MCNUTT

Earl H. McNutt, 71, died Dec. 2, 2011 at Hospice House in Hutchinson. He was born Nov. 13, 1940 in Chase, son of Ralph and Ilene (Wolfe) McNutt.
He was a lifetime resident of Sterling. He graduated from Sterling High School in 1958. He was an oil field worker and dog trainer. He was a member of American Kennel Association and Ducks Unlimited.
He married Tammy Goering on Feb. 5, 2000 in Lyons. He is survived by his wife of the home; two sons, Brad McNutt of Wichita and Doug McNutt of Tennessee; one daughter, Emily McNutt of New York; two step-daughters, Erin and Julia Ferguson of the home; two sister, Linda McNutt of Sterling and Teri Eskandari of Phoenix, Ariz.; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by parents; four brothers, Ralph, Russell, Larry and Tom McNutt and one sister, Mary Lu McNutt.
Funeral service will be Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with Chaplain Richy Beach officiating. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Rice County Ducks Unlimited Chapter.
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The Lyons News
December 6, 2011

LEE E. STARNES

Lee E. Starnes, 64, died Dec. 2, 2011 at home. She was born Feb. 27, 1947 in Minneapolis, Minn., daughter of Eugene and Mabel Worley Hennagir. She was a longtime resident of Lyons.
She was a clerk at Casey’s and former Hotel Ly-Kan. She graduated from Alameda High School in Alameda, Calif. She was a member of VFW Auxiliary. She was of the Catholic faith. She married James D. Starnes on July 25, 1964 in Alameda, California. He preceded her in death on July 27, 2011.
She is survived by son, Charlie Starnes of Lyons; daughter, Pamela Dressler of Sterling; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by parents; brother, Mark Hennagir; sister, Ellen Sue Hennagir and great-granddaughter, Kailee Mendoza.
Funeral service will be Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011 at 3 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Ron DeVore. Burial will be at Chase Springdale Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Center for Basic Cancer Research in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
December 6, 2011

CHARLES D. “CHUCK” BUTTS

Charles D. “Chuck” Butts, 58, died Dec. 3, 2011 in Lyons. He was born Feb. 14, 1953 in Topeka, son of Donald and Joan (Powers) Butts. He was a resident of Lyons since 1971, formerly of Sterling.
He was a retired paramedic for Rice County EMS after 29 years of service. He received his paramedic degree at Hutchinson Community College, was attending Barton County Community College and was one semester from receiving his degree in Web Design. He was a member of Alpha Sigma Lambda, Smoky Hill Rabbit Club, Kansas State Rabbit Breeders Club, American Rabbit Breeders Club and American Netherland Dwarf Rabbit Club.
He married Amanda Jesseph on July 22, 2002 in Sterling. He is survived by his wife of the home; one son, James Butts of Wichita; three daughters, Jennifer Leann Butts, Jacqueline and Chris Norez, Jamie and Kenny Ash, all of Lyons; mother, Joan Butts of Emporia and father and step-mother, Donald and Evelyn Butts of Hutchinson; brother, Allen and Donna Butts of Puyallup, Wash.; sister, Elaine and Rick Boese of Marysville and four grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by grandparents, Quintein and Inez Powers, Clark and Desdamona Butts; uncle and aunt, Edward and Chris Powers and uncles Wilbur McAllaster and Wayne Proffitt.
Funeral service will be Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at United Methodist Church in Lyons with Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials can be made to Kansas Rabbit Breeders Youth Scholarships or donor’s choice in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
December 6, 2011

WILLIAM “BILL” LEROY BRADEN

William “Bill” Leroy Braden, 74, died Nov. 27, 2011 at his residence in Sterling. He was born Jan. 14, 1937 in Hutchinson, son of Calvin Clarke and Vesta (Barr) Braden.
He was a longtime resident of Sterling. He graduated from the Kansas State School for the Deaf in Olathe. He was a shoe repairman, former Cessna Aircraft Industry worker for 10 years and worked at a brace company in Topeka. He was active in the Hutchinson Deaf Club, an avid supporter of Sterling and Kansas State University sports and a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church in Sterling.
He is survived by two sisters, Joanne Stangle of Newton and Jeanne Stocklin of Bradenton, Fla.; three nieces; three nephews; two great nieces and two great nephews.
He was preceded in death by parents; two sisters, Marilyn Jeanette Braden and Barbara Ellen Braden.
Funeral service will be Friday, Dec. 2, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Sterling with Rev. Marvin Ewertt. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, Dec. 1 from 2 - 5 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Memorials can be made to Hutchinson Deaf Club in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
December 2, 2011

ROBIN CONNERY

Robin Dean Connery, 48, died July 20, 2011 at his home in Oklahoma City, Okla. He was born Feb. 9, 1963 in Lyons, son of Ron and Patti Connery.
He attended Lyons High School until 1979. He graduated from Maize High School in 1981. He served in the U.S. Army.
He is survived by his parents of Larned; Kathi (Klinkerman) White of Hutchinson; son, Sean Michael Connery; two grandsons; two sisters, Kandy Connery-Vanzant (Tim) of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Leslie (DeWitt) McMaster of Hutchinson; two stepchildren, Wendy (Moots) (Cavan) Turbeville of Morristown, Ark. and Tony (Ashlee) Moots and one step grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Kimberly Kathleen (Hawley) Connery. Memorial service was held with military honors, Saturday, July 30, 2011 at Memorial Park Cemetery Mausoleum Chapel in Oklahoma City, Okla.
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The Lyons News
December 2, 2011

DARRELL VANCE HALBERT

Darrell Vance Halbert, 91, died on Nov. 28, 2011 at Cedars Health Care Center, McPherson. He was born Oct. 10, 1920 in Morganville, the son of Homer and Georgia (Vance) Halbert.
He was a farmer near Windom. He attended and graduated from the Clay Center Schools. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard as a Seaman first class in WWII. He was an employee for W.R. Mill for 34 years.
He was a life member of the VFW and a member of the Roving Rebels Camping Group. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in McPherson. He married Marcine Phillips Bengtson on June 7, 1975 at Hutchinson.
He is survived by his wife of McPherson; sons, Darrell R. “Dick” and Evelyn Halbert of Louisville, Ky., Larry Halbert of Eufala, Okla., Kurt and Kim Halbert of Little River and Alan and Christine Halbert of Lyons; daughter, Ruby A. and Tony Navarro of Emporia; step children Karon and Doug Morse of Hutchinson, Donna and John Ostner of Little Rock, Ark., Lucky Bengtson and companion Linda McPherson of Gamallel, Ark. and Marica and Edward Smith of Little Rock, Ark.; 17 grandchildren ; 21 great-grandchildren, eight step-grandchildren; eight step-great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Linda Halbert; brothers and sisters, Hildreth Crane, Leonard Halbert, Marie Bruce, Rayburn Halbert and Lyle Halbert; two grandsons, Larry Dean Halbert, Jr. and Dustin Hutchinson and a granddaughter, Sara Halbert.
Memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in McPherson, at 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 2 with Pastor Mike Marion officiating. Committal and burial will be at 1 p.m., Friday, Dec. 2, 2011 at Bean Cemetery in Little River with military honors presented by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2715 and American Legion Post 24. Memorial contributions may be given to Meals on Wheels in McPherson or Hospice Care of Kansas in care of Glidden - Ediger Funeral Home, 222 West Euclid Street, McPherson, Kansas 67460.
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The Lyons News
December 2, 2011

MARC D. HODGES

Marc D. Hodges, 47, died Nov. 30, 2011 at Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. He was born Nov. 8, 1964 in Hutchinson, son of Gary and Joan Beauchamp Hodges.
He was a resident of Wichita for five years, formerly of Lyons. He was a student at Wichita State University. He attended Lyons High School, Butler County Community College and Wichita State University. He was of the Baptist faith.
He is survived by his parents, Gary and Cherry Hodges of Lyons; brother, Mikeal and Marsee Hodges of Manhattan; sister, Marisa and Chris Ford of McLouth; niece and nephew, Marlee and Maddox Hodges.
He was preceded in death by his mother; grandparents, Elmer and LaVada Beauchamp and Owen and Oral Hodges.
Funeral service will be Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2011 at 2 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home with family receiving friends. Memorials can be made to the American Heart Association or Bell and Star Fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News
December 2, 2011

Updated 11/29/11

MARGARET BANE

Margaret Bane, 80, died Nov. 21, 2011 at her home in Sterling. She was born Nov. 12, 1931 in Hill City, daughter of John H. and Bessie (Dean) Parkes. She was a resident of Sterling for 68 years.
She graduated from Sterling High School in 1949. She was an employee of the Sterling Bulletin for 25 years and Presbyterian Manor dietary aide for 18 years. She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Sterling.
She was married to Allen E. Bane on Nov. 23, 1952 in Sterling. He preceded her in death on Feb. 1, 1982.
She is survived by son, John “Ross” and Sally Bane of Penrose, Colo.; daughter, Martha and Allen Steward of Cripple Creek, Colo.; one step-sister, Nedra Erskine of Apache Junction, Ariz.; ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Rose Mary Proffit; three brothers; one sister and two infant siblings.
Funeral service was Wed. Nov. 23, 2011 at the United Methodist Church in Sterling with Reverands Marvin Ewertt and Glenn Chambers. A private family burial took place at the Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River. Memorial can be made to United Methodist Church in Sterling in care of Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
November 29, 2011

Updated 11/25/11

RUFUS F. HOWARD

Rufus F. Howard, 78, died Nov. 17, 2011 at his home in Lyons. He was born March 6, 1933 in Gainesville, Texas, son of Roy Franklin and Mary Evelyn (Sanford) Howard.
He was a resident of Lyons since 1955. He was a retired oil field pumper. He married Beverly A. “Mike” Harrelson in Medford, Okla. on May 4, 1952.
He is survived by three sons, John Howard of Great Bend, Terry Howard of Denton, Texas and Bobby Howard of Evergreen, Colo.; daughter, Susan Long of Hutchinson; brother, LeRoy Howard of Ogden, Utah; 20 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by an infant son, Mickey Alan Howard.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011 at Lakin Comanche Cemetery in Ellinwood with Rev. Dick Ogle officiating. Burial will be at Lakin Comanche Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 21 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family receiving friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Memorials can be made to Friends of Animals in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
November 22, 2011

Updated 11/18/11

LINDA R. GILMORE

Linda R. Gilmore, 68, died Nov. 17, 2011 at Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington. She was born Dec. 1, 1942 in Seminole Okla., daughter of Gordon M. & Thelma G. Hall Woodard.
She was a resident of Chase since 1975. She was a nurse aid, waitress and sales clerk. She graduated from Russell High School and attended Ft. Hays State University.
She attended First Street Church of God in Hoisington, former member of the Rainbow Girls of Russell and former member of C.B. Club. She married Robert R. Gilmore on April 16, 2004 in Glendale, Ariz.
She is survived by her husband of the home; four sons, Ross Tuey of Great Bend, Christopher Kelso of Wellington, Joseph Kelso of Great Bend and Ricky Ray of Chase; four daughters, Teresa Wilson of Great Bend, Dyanna Wilson of Hoisington, Darlene S. Case and Tammy Haltom both of Great Bend; step-daughter, Roxanne Beems of St. Joseph, Mo.; brother, Charles Gordon Woodard of Hutchinson; 21 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three grandchildren, Alexander and Karly Tuey and Andrea Siefers. Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Dick Ogle officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery in Coffeyville. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 21, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home and 9 a.m. until service on Tuesday. Memorials can be made to Linda Gilmore funeral expense fund in care of the funeral home.
______________ The Lyons News,
November 18, 2011

LINDA M. GADBERRY-PITTS

Linda Mae Gadberry-Pitts, sister of Paula Small, Lyons, died Nov. 12, 2011. She was born Feb. 12, 1950, to Eva and Dan Gadberry.
Survivors include: daughters, Loretta Hendrix, Hutchinson, and Crystal Zimzores, Houston; sisters, Paula Small, Lyons, and Darla Vanmeter, Hutchinson and brothers, Roger Gadberry, Larned, and Larry Gadberry, Ft. Worth, Texas.
Memorial Services were held on Nov. 15, 2011 at Westbrook Church, 2005 Hendricks Street Hutchinson, KS 67502. Memorial for Linda may be sent to the Westbrook Church in care of Linda Pitts.
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The Lyons News,
November 18, 2011

WILLIS D. CREED

Willis D. “Bill” Creed, 81, died Nov. 16, 2011 at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. He was born February 28, 1930 in rural Clearwater, son of Elmer Emett and Helen (Clum) Creed. He was a resident of Windom since 1950.
He retired in 1992 as Plumber-Pipefitter for Johns Manville, former owner of Windom Plumbing, was school bus driver for Windom/Little River Schools for many years, and former Windom councilman and mayor. He was a member of Andover Lutheran Church in Windom.
He was married on May 21, 1950 in Windom to Lois C. Hubenett. He is survived by Lois of the home; three sons, Dale Creed of Lawrence, John Creed of Arvada, Colo. and Brad Creed of Howell, Mich.; two brothers, Farris Creed of Olathe and Darrell Creed of South Haven and four grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Bob, Merle and Don Creed and sister Mildred. Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 21, 2011 at Andover Lutheran Church in Windom with Pastor Tom Hallowell officiating. Burial will be at Andover Lutheran Cemetery. Family will greet friends at Andover Lutheran Church in Windom on Sunday Nov. 20, from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials can be made to Andover Lutheran Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
November 18, 2011

JAMES W. COWAN, JR.

James W. “Jim” Cowan, Jr., 74, died Nov. 14, 2011 at his residence in Mesa, Ariz. He was born Nov. 6, 1937 in Neosho Falls, son of James Walter and Beulah Bea (Helms) Cowan, Sr.
He was a resident of Lyons for 17 years. He was an operator for Williams Natural Gas and former police officer. He graduated from McPherson High School in 1956. He was a veteran of the Army National Guard. He was a member of Andover Lutheran Church in Windom, Kiwanis Club in Lyons, a six year member of Lyons City Council and Mayor of Lyons for one year and former Reno County Hospice Board member.
He married Eileen Nelson on July 8, 1961 at Andover Luthern Church. He is survived by his wife of the home; two sons, David and Bobbie Cowan of Independence, Tim and Jen Cowan of Shawnee; daughter, Nan and Dan Cauble of Gilbert, Ariz.; five grandchildren, Andrew and Bethany Cauble, Taylor, Mitch and Michael Cowan.
He was preceded in death by parents; brother, Bobby Gene Cowan and an infant sister. Funeral services will be Saturday Nov. 19, 2011 at 10 a.m. at Andover Lutheran Church in Windom with Pastor Tom Hallowell officiating. Burial will be at Andover Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday Nov. 18, 2011 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family receiving friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials can be made to Andover Lutheran Church or Reno County Hospice in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
November 18, 2011

Updated 11/15/11

MYRON J. BEHNKE

Myron J. Behnke, 69, died Nov. 13, 2011 at Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. He was born Oct. 6, 1942 in Hutchinson, son of Merrill and Marceline (Monroe) Behnke.
He was a lifetime farmer in Rice County. He graduated from Bushton High School in 1960, received a Bachelor Degree in Business and Agriculture in 1965 from Ft. Hays State University. He was a veteran of the Army National Guard. He was a member of Salem United Methodist Church of Bushton and attended Lorraine First Baptist Church with his wife and boys. He was past president and board member of the Farmers Coop Union, board member of the Bushton Grain and Supply, board member of the A.S.C.S., currently F.S.A. and former board member of the Rice County Farm Bureau. He married Jean Dobrinski in Lorraine.
He is survived by his wife of the home; two sons, Barry and wife Graham Behnke of Kirkwood, Mo., Brock Behnke of Geneseo; two brothers, Melvin Behnke of Wichita and Meredith Behnke of Bushton; two sisters, Marilyn Wilkens of Shawnee and Myretta Bell of Bedford, Tex.; grandson, Arthur John Behnke and numerous other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Maurice Behnke. Funeral service will be Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011 at 3 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Lorraine with Pastors Dave Barger and Paul Johnson officiating. Burial will be at Salem Church Cemetery in rural Bushton. Visitation will be Friday, Nov. 18, 2011 from 5 to 7 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family present. Memorials can be made to Lorraine First Baptist Church Medical Mission in Cameroon Africa in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
November 15, 2011

DANIEL R. BARRIENTOS

Daniel R. Barrientos, 86, died Nov. 11, 2011 at Good Samaritan Center in Lyons. He was born August 16, 1925 in Lyons, son of John and Isidra (Ramirez) Barrientos.
He was a lifetime resident of Lyons. He was a retired custodian at Good Samaritan Center. He was a member of United Methodist Church in Lyons and former Spanish Methodist Mission in Lyons.
He was survived by brother, Louis Barrientos of Broomfield, Colo.; five sisters, Isabel and Johnny Cadena of Lyons, Bea Rau of Hutchinson, Odelia Avila of Wichita, Carol and Felix Palacioz and Betty and Ron Harkrader, both of Lyons; Sister-in-law, Della Barrientos of Lyons; six nephews; eight nieces; many great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; brother, Joseph Barrientos and sister, Frances Barrientos.
Funeral services will be Friday, Nov. 18, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Bell and Star Fund or Good Samaritan Center in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
November 15, 2011

Updated 11/8/11

DOROTHY JEAN BURGESS

Dorothy Jean Burgess, 91, died at the Colorado State Veterans Nursing Home in Walsenburg, Colo. on Nov. 4, 2011. She enjoyed taking care of her family, drinking coffee while visiting with her friends, reading the Bible, and praising God with songs and prayer. She went on many mission trips in the US and to foreign countries including a trip where she smuggled Bibles into China (at the age of 74). She taught first graders at the Helena Christian School many years while she lived in Montana.
Dorothy Burgess was born in a sod house, in Garfield County, near Jordan, MT on August 10, 1920, where her parents, Cora and Gabriel Burgess had homesteaded. Three children were born into the marriage, Dorothy, Jack, and Ruth who died at a young age. Dorothy’s brother, Jack preceded her in death.
Byron Welch and Dorothy Burgess were married in Hutchinson on Dec. 10, 1941. The marriage was blessed with three children: Byron (Buddy) Welch Jr. (Sara) of Topeka; Thomas (Tom) Welch of Glendale, Ariz.; and Ray Welch (Vickie) of Alamosa, Colo.
Byron Jr. and Sara have four children. Troy Welch (Becky) of Bentonville, Ark.; Staci Murry (Mike) of Rogers, Ark.; Cathy Carlson of Dillon, Colo; and David Carlson of Dillon, Colo.
Ray and Vickie have four children, Cody of Alamosa, Colo.; Chris (Hillary) of Hot Sulphur Springs; Colo.; Scott (Jenny) of Fort Collins, Colo.; and Angie of the home.
Dorothy has 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, and one great, great grandchild from the Byron & Dorothy Welch union. Byron (Barney) Welch, died October 18, 1968.
Dorothy married Douglas Burgess on May 30, 1970 and moved to Helena, Montana in 1970. In this union she was a step-mother to Doug’s children: Phil Burgess, Sandra Earling (Ron), Linda Curtis (Jim) and Jim Burgess. Doug’s previous wife passed away due to cancer. Doug died on Nov. 5, 1992 at Helena, MT.
Dorothy then moved to an apartment above Byron Jr’s. office in Chariton, IA in the spring of 1993. With the onset of dementia Dorothy eventually had to move to the Colorado State Veteran’s Nursing Home in Walsenburg, Colo. in Jan. 2006.
Dorothy’s body has been cremated at her request, and a memorial service will be held at the First Christian Church in Lyons at 10:00 am on Nov. 19, 2011.
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The Lyons News,
November 8, 2011

Updated 11/4/11

GORDON S. KLING SR.

Gordon S. Kling Sr., 94, died Oct. 30, 2011 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. He was born March 21, 1917 in Chicago, Ill. the son of Adolph Sigfred and Anna (Carlstedt) Kling.
He was a resident of Sterling since July 14, 1999, formerly of Rogers, Arkansas. He was a retired minister and former District Superintendent of the Evangelical Free Church. He graduated from Crystal Lake Community High School in Crystal Lake, Ill., graduated from Wheaton College in Wheaton, Ill. and attended the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago.
He was a member of Evangelical Free Church in Rogers, Ark., attended United Presbyterian Church in Sterling and former Board of Trustees of Trinity College in Deerfield, Ill.
He married Ethel Regina Basye on June 30, 1944 in Hope, Ark. She preceded him in death on Feb. 22, 2002.
He is survived by four sons, Gordon S. Kling Jr. of Sterling, Dr., David W. Kling of Miami, Fl., Rev. Paul E. Kling of Watertown, Minn., and Philip C. Kling of Ashland, Oregon; one daughter, Miriam E. Pederson of Grand Rapids, Michigan; 16 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Muriel Kling and his parents.
Funeral service will be Monday, Nov. 7, 2011 at 10 a.m. at United Presbyterian Church in Sterling. Rev. Seth Svaty and Rev. Paul E. Kling will officiate. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery in Sterling. Visitation will be Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling from 7 - 8 p.m. Memorials can be made to Sterling College, United Presbyterian Church or Sterling Presbyterian Manor in care of Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
November, 4, 2011

RUBY L. NORTH

Ruby L. North, 82, died Oct. 30, 2011 at Great Bend Regional Hospital. She was born Jan. 30, 1929 at Cookeville, Tenn. daughter of Marion and Elizabeth (Dunham) Grider.
She was a resident of Ellinwood for the past 3 years, formerly of Baldwin City. She was school nurse for nearly 25 years. She was a member of First United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women of Baldwin City. She married Lyle W. North on June 19, 1952 at Ottawa. He preceded her in death on Oct. 28, 2007.
She is survived by one son, Eric (Pam) North of Topeka, one daughter, Sheila (Kurt) Rugan of Ellinwood, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Ruth Flatt and Jean Nardini.
Funeral service will be Saturday Nov. 5 at 10:30 a.m. at Lighthouse Baptist Church in Baldwin City with Rev. Richard Austin officiating. Calling time will be Friday, Nov. 4 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Lamb-Roberts in Baldwin City. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Baldwin City. Memorials can be made to American Diabetes Association, Gideons International or The Ellinwood Hospital Auxiliary in care of Kimple Funeral Home in Ellinwood.
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The Lyons News,
November, 4, 2011

MARY A. MCCORMICK

Private graveside service for Mary A. McCormick, who died Oct. 4, 2011 in Lawrence will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 1-2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 11 in the Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church.
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The Lyons News,
November, 4, 2011

JACK BARNARD BATES

Jack Barnard Bates was stillborn Nov. 2, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He is survived by parents, Ben and Angela (Barnard) Bates and five sibling, all of Lyons. Burial will be at Bates Cemetery in Driggs, Idaho. Arrangements by Elliott Mortuary.
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The Lyons News,
November 4, 2011

Updated 11/1/11

BILLY NORMAN TURNER, SR.

Billy Norman Turner, Sr, 72, died Oct. 29, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was born Oct. 11, 1939 in Lyons son of Billy G. and Evelyn Ruth (McKinnis) Turner.
He was a lifetime resident of Lyons. He was the owner of Turner Front End. He graduated from Lyons High School and was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
He was a member of the Methodist faith; life member of the VFW; American Legion; Royal Lodge #192, all of Lyons; ISIS Shrine of Salina and Deep Lake Fishing Club.
His first marriage was to Dale Dee Lucas on August 11, 1956 in Lyons. They later divorced. His second marriage was to Phyllis L. Narron on Feb. 14, 1975 in Ellsworth. She preceded him in death on June 1, 2006.
He is survived by two sons, Chris Turner and Norman Turner, Jr., two step-sons, Russell Hammer and Robert Hammer all of Lyons; two daughters, Deedra Sue Turner and Billie Jo Martinez, both of Lyons; one sister, Sue Weinmeister of Hutchinson; 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and infant brother, Kayle Turner. Funeral services will be Friday, Nov. 4, 2011 at 2 p.m. at First Christian Church of Lyons. Rev. Ron DeVore will officiate. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery, Lyons with Military Honors by McConnell Air Force Honor Guard. Memorials can be made to Shriner’s Hospital in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
November 1, 2011

BUDDY RAY MESSICK

Buddy Ray Messick, 76, died Oct. 28, 2011, at his home in Kingman with his wife and children by his side.
He was born Oct. 28, 1935, near Raymond the son of Clarence and Dora Belle Hughbanks Messick. A Kingman resident since 1984, previously of the Raymond, Lyons and Claflin communities, he was a retired oil field employee.
He was a member of the Raymond Baptist Church, the V.F. W., formerly of the Lyons American Legion, and was a U.S. Army veteran.
On April 2, 1955, he married Anna Belle Manwarren of Sterling. Other survivors include son Clarence and his wife Lori; two daughters and their husbands, Clairissa and Steve Maddy and Cynthia and Lynn Lannon; brother Jack; sisters Kaye Fore and Bobbie Schultz, nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Services will be 2 p.m., Tuesday at the Raymond Baptist Church. Friends may call from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Monday at the Livingston Funeral Home, Kingman with the family receiving friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Burial will be in the Raymond Cemetery.
Memorials may be made with the Hospice Care of Kansas, the Wichita VA Hospital or to the donor’s choice, all in care of the Livingston Funeral Home, 1830 N. Main, Kingman, KS 67068.
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The Lyons News,
November 1, 2011

BETTY J. GARTRELL

Betty J. Gartrell, 79, died Oct. 28, 2011 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was born Dec. 9, 1931 in Uttleyville, Colo daughter of James and Nina (Kahler) Cramer.
She was a longtime resident of the Alden area. She was a homemaker. She graduated from Alden High School and Hutchinson Business College.
She was a member of United Methodist Church of Alden. She married James W. Gartrell on August 26, 1960 in Alden. He preceded her in death on Feb. 3, 2004.
She is survived by a son, Terry and Nancy Gartrell of Alden; two brothers, Gary Cramer of Shingle Springs, Calif. and Gene Cramer of Shawnee; two sisters, Jamie McAdams of Viallejo, Calif. and Nancy Hines of San Marcos, Calif.
She was preceded in death by an infant daughter; an infant brother, Floyd Kark Cramer and brother, Ronnie Dean Cramer. Funeral service will be Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011 at 2 p.m. at United Methodist Church in Alden. Rev. Amy Slater will officiate. Burial will be at Alden Valley Cemetery in Alden. Memorials can be made to United Methodist Church or Hospice Care of Kansas in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
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The Lyons News,
November 1, 2011

STELLA W. CASEY

Stella W. Casey, 94, died Oct. 27, 2011 at Ellinwood District Hospital. She was born Nov. 14, 1916 in Shamrock, Okla. daughter of William Roy and Mary Martha (Rhea) Snook. She was a resident of Chase since 1944.
She was a homemaker and a member of the Assembly of God Church in Lyons. She married Samuel W. Casey on March 30, 1945 in Hominy, Okla. He preceded her in death on Nov. 29, 2004.
She is survived by one son, Lawrence M. Casey of Hutchinson; seven daughters, Betty Collins of Lyons, Dora Holliday, Mary Brady, both of Chase, Elizabeth Rinehart of Cache, Okla., Karen Saunders, Sharon Stahl, both of Plainville and Jeanie May, Oberlin; one sister, Ellen Shuler of Chico, Calif.; two brothers, Marvin Snook of Yuba City, Calif. and Albert Snook of Hawaii; 31 grandchildren; 61 great-grandchildren and 24 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by son, Sam R. Casey; two daughters, Wanda Blankenship and Joyce Brady; one great-grandson; four brothers, Walter, Lester, Leroy and Arlen Snook.
Funeral Service will be Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Rev. Ron DeVore will officiate. Burial will be at Chase Springdale Cemetery in Chase. Visitation will be Monday, Oct. 31, 2011 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials can be made to Donor’s Choice in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
November 1, 2011

Updated 10/25/11

BRYNLI KAYNEN TEETERS

Brynli Kaynen Teeters, 1 day old, died October 22, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born October 21, 2011 in Hutchinson, daughter of Brandon L. and Chazni Valen (Hageman) Teeters.
She is survived by her parents of the home; two sisters, Brayli and Byntli Teeters; grandparents, Charles Hageman of Harper, Bob and Jackie Bary of Atica, Don and Dalene Teeters of Little River, Eleanor Hageman of Willowdale, Dennis and Judy Barker of Attica, Loretta Teeters of Little River, Skip and Mae Smith of Great Bend and Donald Teeters of Myrtle Beach, S. C.; aunts and uncle, Jessie and Will Godfrey, Jamie Teeters, Chayni Hageman and Chelsi Hageman.
Graveside service will be Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2011 at 11 a.m. at Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River. Pastor Theresa Forshee will officiate. Memorials can be made in lieu of flowers to Brayli and Byntli Education Fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News
October 25, 2011

HAZEL IRENE LACY

Hazel Irene Lacy, 92, died Oct. 23, 2011 at Good Samaritan Center in Lyons. She was born July 9, 1919 in Brownell, daughter of Clayton and Violet (Hoover) Everhart.
She was a resident of Rice County since 1983, formerly of Ulysses and Hugoton. She was a retired elementary school teacher having taught at Hugoton, Ulysses, Liberal, Copeland, Sylvan and Palisade, Colo.
She graduated from Arnold High School, Panhandle State University in Goodwell, Okla with her teaching degree. She attended Assembly of God, Baptist and currently the First Christian Church in Lyons. She was a member of Rice County Retired School Personnel, Christian Women’s Fellowship Mission Group and active in the Chase and Lyons Senior Centers.
She married Robert R. “Bob” Lacy on April 24, 1939 in Arnold. He preceded her in death on February 26, 2004.
She is survived by two daughters, Aleta and Jim Sullivan of Chase and Glenda Teeter of Lenexa; two sisters, Dessie Hatter of Wichita and Judy McReynolds of San Antonio, Texas; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by ten brothers and sisters and one son-in-law, Bill Bourquin.
Funeral service will be Thursday, Oct. 27, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Rev. Ron DeVore will officiate. Burial will be Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26 at Birzer Funeral Home. Memorials can be made to First Christian Church or Gideon International in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
October 25, 2011

GEORGE M. BROWN

George M. Brown, 79, died October 22, 2011 in his residence in Lyons. He was born March 7, 1932 in Leavenworth, son of John W. and Mary (Deaton) Brown.
He was a resident of Lyons since 1983. He was a retired truck driver for Superior Boiler Works in Hutchinson. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during the Korean War. He was a member of the V.F.W. of Lyons, Korean War Veterans, Gray Beards.
He married Estelle “Sue” Nickens on July 21, 1950 in Santa Ana, Calif. She preceded him in death on March 5, 2007.
He is survived by four sons, James M. Brown of Hutchinson, Ralph W. Brown of Texas, Kevin D. Brown of Ponchatoula, La. and William G. Brown of Lyons; three daughters, Lorraine S. Brady and Karen Mayfield both of Lyons and Shirley J. Jowers of Sterling; six brothers, James Brown of Mountain Grove, Mo., Harold Brown of Newton, Kenneth Brown of Lyons, Melvin Brown of Hutchinson, Verl Brown of Norwood, Mo. and Everett Brown of Lyons; two sisters, Jean Welch and Debra Gonzales both of Lyons, two sisters-in-law, Betty Brown of Lyons and Carol Brown of Great Bend, 17 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Charley and Dearl Brown and two sisters, Nora Hurley and Kathryn Williams.
Funeral service will be Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2011 at 2 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Chaplin Sara Davis Blodgett will officiate. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery with military honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Visitation will be Tuesday from 2 to 7 p.m. with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials can be made to Rice/Reno County Hospice or Alzheimer’s Association in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
October 25, 2011

_____________________________________________

Updated 10/21/11

SENIOR CHIEF PERRY L. DEIST

Senior Chief Perry L. Deist, 63, died October 18, 2011 at the Hospice House in Hutchinson. He was born Jan. 8, 1948 in Wichita, son of John Edward and Phyllis (Baldwin) Deist Sr.
He was a resident of Lyons since 2000, formerly from Sharon. He was a member of the U.S. Navy for 23 years and 18 years over the road truck driver. He graduated from Sterling High School in 1966. He was a U.S. Navy veteran serving during Vietnam War and retiring as an E-8 Machinist Mate. He was a member of the Church of Christ and Liars Fishing Club both of Lyons.
He married Patricia A. Sears on May 20, 2000 in Lyons. He is survived by his wife of the home; two step-daughters, Sherry Ann Little Coyote and Khristine Diane Albright, both of Wichita; two step-sons, John Newman of Pasadena, Texas and Gean Newman of Lyons; one brother, John Deist Jr. of Sterling; four sisters, Pat Fenwick of Sterling, Debra K. Cox of Talala, Okla., Vanessa Lynn Paris and Kathy Sue Deist both of Hutchinson; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Donald Deist.
Funeral services will be Saturday, Oct. 22, 2011 at 2 p.m. at Church of Christ in Lyons. Robert Taverner will officiate. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery with Military Honors by U.S. Navy. Visitation will be Friday, Oct. 21, 2011 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials can be made to American Cancer Society, Church of Christ or Hospice House of Reno County in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
October 21, 2011

RAYMOND SANGSTER

Raymond Sangster, 83, died September 14, 2011 in Cottonwood, Ariz. He was born March 15, 1928 in Lyons, son of Charles and Margaret (Sheets) Sangster.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Saturday, October 22, 2011 at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Birzer Funeral home is in charge of local arrangements.
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The Lyons News,
October 18, 2011

REX AMEND

Rex Amend, 76, died October 17, 2011 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. He was born April 15, 1935 in Sterling, son of Bruce and Laura (Proffitt) Amend.
He was a resident of Sterling since 2006, formerly of Holyrood. He graduated Hutchinson Junior College and Sterling College with a Bachelors Degree in Education. He was a retired school teacher and coach for Quivira Heights Schools. He was a member of the American Legion of Sterling and a former Holyrood City councilman. He was a U.S. Army veteran serving during Korean War.
He married Janet Arell on January 29, 1953 in Las Vegas, N.M. He is survived by his wife of the home; one sister, Connie Green of Sterling; two brothers, Charles William Amend of El Dorado and Larry Dean Amend of Sterling; one sister-in-law, Lola Amend of Lyons; several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Robert, Don and Arden “Pete” Amend.
Funeral services will be Friday, October 21, 2011 at 2 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery with Military Honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Visitation will be 11 a.m. to service time on Friday at the funeral home. Memorials can be made to Sterling Library, Hospice Care of Kansas or Donor’s Choice in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
October 21, 2011

RONALD C. LANGEL

Ronald C. Langel, 71, died Oct. 15, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was born May, 21, 1940 in Sterling son of Charles Yates and Carolyn Berblinger Langel.
He was a lifetime resident of Alden. He graduated from Alden High School in 1958. He was a farmer and stockman. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Alden, Kansas Livestock Association and Ducks Unlimited. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne. He was married to Carol Harrison on August 4, 1961 in Alden.
He is survived by his wife of the home; one daughter, Christine and Todd Oden of Sterling; step-mother, Goldie Harrison of Alden; three grandchildren, Guy, Jill and Brett Oden and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Michael Scott Langel; one sister, Carol McCleskey and step-father, Norman Harrison.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Alden. Rev. Amy Slater will officiate. Burial will be at Alden Valley Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Memorials can be sent to Alden United Methodist Church or Sterling High School Athletic Department in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
October 18, 2011

JOSEPH L. CEDENO

Joseph L. Cedeno, 83, died October 13, 2011 at Rice County District Hospital. He was the son of Jose L. and Refugio Leyva Cedeno, born February 18, 1928 at Belle Plaine. He was a lifetime resident of Rice County, having lived in Chase and Lyons.
He was an operator for Enron at the Ethane Plant and a bail bond agent for Aztec Bail Bonds. He was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church and former church council, Eucharistic Minister, LECTOR, Knights of Columbus council 7422, Fourth Degree Quivira Council, Kiwanis Club and a life member and past Commander of VFW, American Legion, NRA and a former Lyons city councilman and Lyons mayor. He was a vetern of the U.S. Navy serving during World War II.
He married Amelia A. Aguilera on June 10, 1950 in Chase. He was survived by his wife; three sons, Joseph G. and Sherri Cedeno of Lamar, Colo., John P. and Karen Cedeno of Great Bend, James M. and Cathy Cedeno of Lyons; one daughter, Gerianne M. and Virgil Habiger of Bushton; one sister Frances Morales of Hayward, Calif.; 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Michael and Pat Cedeno and one sister, Cora Ojeda.
Funeral mass was Monday, October 17 at St. Paul Catholic Church with Father Robert Spencer officiating. Burial was at St. Marys Catholic Cemetery in Chase with Military Honors by U.S. Navy. Memorials can be made to Hospice Care of Kansas or donor’s choice in care of Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
October 18, 2011

Updated 10/14/11

MARY F. CONNERY

Mary F. Connery, 70, died Oct. 13, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born Nov. 16, 1940 in Ellsworth to Rolf Jack and Lottie Urbanovich Harms.
She was a longtime resident of Serling. She graduated from Geneseo High School in 1958. She was a bookkeeper-secretary for USD 376, Sterling; First National Bank, Sterling and Lyons Daily News.
She married Jerry Connery on August 17, 1983 in Lyons. She is survived by her husband Jerry of the home; two sons, Steve & Maryann Bundy of Manhattan and Todd & Paula Connery of Kearney, Mo.; one daughter, Stacie and Dale Jarvis of Wichita; one brother, R. J. Harms of Abilene; two sisters, Betty Gomez of Chase and Doris Sheridan of Edna; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild expected in April
She was preceded in death by her parents and one son, Aaron Connery. Funeral service will be Tuesday, Oct. 18,2011 at 2 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Rev. Grant Davis will officiate. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, Oct. 17, 2-7 p.m. with family present from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials can be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, in care of the funeral home. ___________________
The Lyons News,
October 14, 2011

PHYLLIS MARIE
SCHARDEIN WIENS

She was born at the family farm Southwest of Nickerson, Kansas to Ray Oliver Schardein and Inez Marie Ewing Schardein, November 17, 1922. Phyllis graduated from Fairview Grade School in Reno County, Nickerson High School, class of 1940. She attended Hutchinson Community Junior College.
Phyllis worked at Fred Harvey House as a Harvey House Waitress, numerous other part-time jobs and at Cessna Aircraft where she helped build Gliders for the World War II effort. In Sept. of 1941, she joined the United States “Waves” and served at the Great Lakes Naval Air Station where she was a Flight Instrument Technician until Sept. 1945. Phyllis later attended Kansas State College, later renamed, Kansas State University, where she got a degree in Home Economics and Interior Design. She was then employed by International Harvester as a Home Economist, demonstrating their new lines of home appliances. She would hold home demonstration group and community demonstrations. She worked for Smokey Hill Electric at Ellsworth, doing similar demonstrations. Ark Valley Electric Co-op hired her away and she became their first Home Electrification Advisor. On one of her home visits August 31,1952, she met Loren Wiens, they married on November 16,1952 at Hutchinson Presbyterian Church. They took over the Wiens farm in March of 1953, where they lived until May 7, 2007, when they experienced 2 major floods and wind storms, causing them to choose to move north of Lyons with their daughter Jacque. Their first child, Jacque Charisse Wiens was born February 3, 1956, she survives. Their second child, Leland Kurt Wiens was born January 17, 1958. He passed away August 3, 1964, from drowning in Fort Morgan, Colorado swimming pool. Phyllis was a homemaker and an Avon Representative for 23 years. February 1, 1977, she opened The S.H.E. Shoppe, a gift & collectible shop in Lyons, which she has continuously operated.
Her memberships included Chase Community Presbyterian Church where she served on various committees and was a past Session Member. During her military duty she became a member of the Eastern Star.
She is survived by her husband Loren and daughter Jacque Wiens; 4 nephews Kenneth & Vickie McFarland, Kevin & Linda McFarland both of Nickerson, Doug & Barbara Sykes, Kamiah, Idaho, Stan & Carol Sykes, Austin, Tx.
Preceded in death by her parents and sister, Marilyn McFarland.
Funeral service, 5:00 P.M., Saturday, October 15,2011 at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons with burial in Lyons Municipal Cemetery with military honors by US Navy.
Visitation will be 2:00 to 7:00 P.M., Friday, October 14, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Memorials in lieu of flowers to the Bell & Star Fund or Community Presbyterian Church in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
October 14, 2011

Esther M. Russell

Esther M. Russell of O’Fallon, Missouri, died on Wednesday, October 12, 2011 at the age of 91. Loving wife of the late Dr. Frank Edward Russell; dear daughter of the late Frank and Ruby Marie Rudd; devoted mother of Anne-Marie (David) Shepard; cherished grandmother of 6 grandsons, 18 granddaughters, and great-grandmother of 39; and beloved Aunt to numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her son Robert L. Russell and brother JC Rudd.
Esther was a member of Beta Sigma Phi and the Eastern Star for 50 years. She enjoyed gardening and volunteering. She worked alongside her husband, DDS Frank Edward Russell as his assistant until his retirement in 1965.
The family is being served by The Baue Funeral and Memorial Center. A visitation will be held at Bible Baptist Church, 11 Lakeview, St Charles, Missouri 63303 on Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 10:00-11:00 AM with a Funeral Service following at 11:00 AM. Interment Lewistown Cemetery in Lewistown, MO at 3:30 PM. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Nurses and Company Hospice. www.baue.com.

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The Lyons News,
October 14, 2011

Updated 10/11/11

BETTY E. WOOD

Betty E. Wood, 93, died Oct. 6, 2011 in Rice County District Hospital. She was born on March 20, 1918 in Des Moines, Iowa to Leo Emil and Lucile (Georgeson) Kirsch.
She was a longtime resident of Chase. She graduated from Pipestone High School in Pipestone, Minn. She was a homemaker and co-owner of former Smoker of Chase. She was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church, Altar Society of Lyons; a member of the former St. Marys Catholic Church and Church Council member; Chase Alumni Association; VFW Auxiliary, Pinochle Card Group of Chase.
She married Virgil E. Wood on August 11, 1941 in Long Beach, Calif. He preceded her in death on February 25, 1989.
She is survived by five sons, Donald and Carla Wood of Tulsa, Okla., Richard and Saundra Wood of Spring, Texas, Dale and Vicki Wood of Hattiesburg, Miss., David and Tracy Wood and Duane and Becky Wood both of Chase; three daughters, Luanna Maes of Lucas, Jeanine and Howard Link of Chase and Teresa and Jim Crowl of Lyons; 25 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two sisters, Lucia Gaither and Mary Ann Young; two brothers, LeRoy Kirsch and Leo Melvin Kirsch; one Son-in-law, Mike Maes and two grandsons, Joe Maes and Heath Crowl.
Funeral Mass was Monday, Oct. 10, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church. Father Robert Spencer officiated the service. Burial was at St. Marys Catholic Cemetery in Chase. Memorials can be made to Chase Alumni Association, Activity Center Rice County District Hospital or Hospice Care of Kansas in care of Birzer funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
October 11, 2011

ROSEMARIE H. HUMMEL

Rosemarie H. Hummel, 65, died Oct. 9, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born June 16, 1946 in Germany to August and Louise Noss Jaeger.
She was a Hutchinson resident since 1990 moving from Geneseo where she lived since 1963 moving from Germany. She was a 22-year employee of Hutchinson Bag Company.
She is survived by a son Rick Hummel and wife Carol of Topeka; one daughter, Trish Mann and husband Kevin of Hutchinson and one grandson. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Memorial service will be Friday, Oct. 14, 2011 at 10 a.m. at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home and Crematory. Graveside service will be Friday at 1 p.m. at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society in care of the funeral home. Visit www.PennwellGabelHutchinson.com to leave the family a personal message.
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The Lyons News,
October 11, 2011

VELMA C. PURDY

Velma C. Purdy, 99, died Oct. 7, 2011 in Lincoln. She was born Oct. 7, 1912 in Rural Lincoln County to William C. Feldkamp and Hilfreda A. Nelson.
She married Frank A. Cooper, July 16, 1941. He died Jan. 19, 1968. She married George S. Purdy, April 15, 1981. He died May 19, 2003. She was survived by at brother Warren (Lillian) Feldkamp and a nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents.
She was a retired medical secretary of Lyons Medical Center. She was a member of Athenaeum Club.
Services were Monday, Oct. 10, 2011 at Hall Chapel. Interment was at Lincoln City Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Lyons Bell and Star or Lincoln Historical Society. Condolences can be sent to www.postrockfs.com.
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The Lyons News,
October 11, 2011

SANDRA KAY BYARD HUBBARD

Sandra Kay Byard Hubbard went home to her Lord and Savior on September 16, 2011. A recent resident of Knoxville, Tenn. where she belonged to the Ball Camp Baptist Church and a long time resident of Kenner, La. where she was an active member of the Williams Blvd. Baptist Church. Sandra was born in Lyons on October 30, 1951, daughter of Donald and Carol Ade Byard.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jay Hubbard and father Donald Byard. Sandra is survived by her sons, Shawn Hubbard and wife Morgan of Hutto, Texas and Steven Hubbard and wife Ami of Camp LeJeune, N.C. ; three step children, Jeff Hubbard, Matt Hubbard and Jill Hubbard Pritchett; mother, Carol Byard; sister, Pamela Byard Thomas; two brothers, Chad and Tony Byard. A service will be held at the Lyons Cemetery on Saturday, October 15 at 1 p.m. Family will receive friends at Birzer Funeral Home following service from 2 - 4 p.m.
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The Lyons News,
October 11, 2011

JEANNE ANN GABLE

Jeanne Ann Gable, 86, died Oct. 7, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born Sept. 17, 1925 in Sedalia, Colo. to Edwin Victor and Ruth June (Oxnam) Berg.
She was a resident of Sterling since 1956. She graduated from Norwich High School. She attended Pittsburg State University, Wichita State University and Emporia State University. She was a para-professional and substitute teacher at Sterling, Lyons and Chase schools. She was a member of United Methodist Church, Come Join Us Sunday Class, Girl Scout leader, Bon Ame 4-H Club leader, E.H.U., M.I.C., all of Sterling, and Rice County Extension Board.
She married Glenn M. Gable on August 11, 1946 in Norwich. She is survived by her husband, Glenn of the home; two daughters, Ruth Ann and Charles Hessert of Sedan and Kristen and Michael Tierney of Lagos, Nigeria; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, James Morris Gable and a sister, Lucille Berg.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011 at 2 p.m. at United Methodist Church in Sterling. Rev. Marvin Ewertt will officiate. Burial will be a 4:30 p.m. at Eden Cemetery in Milton. Memorials can be made to Sterling Library, Sterling American Legion or United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
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The Lyons News,
October 11, 2011

MARY A. EKSTROM

Mary A. Ekstrom, 85, died Oct. 8, 2011 at Good Samaritan Center. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
October 11, 2011

Updated 10/7/11

Virgie Margaret Goerl

Virgie Margaret Goerl, 88, died October 5, 2011, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. She was born October 9, 1922, in Chase, Kansas, the daughter of John Godfried and Mary Elizabeth Hoover Dressel. Virgie was a 1940 graduate of Chase High School. She was a former member of Little River United Methodist Church and Ebenezer Methodist Church of Lyons and was a current member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson.
She taught for two years at the Sunnyside Grade School after graduating from Chase High School. After teaching, she worked at both Dillons and Swift & Company in Lyons. She was a community leader for the Country Pals 4-H Club, served on the Rice County Fair Board, and was a member of the Evening Bells HDU. She served as the Hutchinson district president of the United Methodist Women and also served as an officer of the West Conference for United Methodist Women for several years. On August 1, 1948, she married Vincent Kenneth Goerl in Lyons, KS. He died February 3, 2001.
Survivors include: four children, Vincette L. Goerl of Ft. Belvior, VA, Vernon J. Goerl and wife Sandy of Hutchinson, Vaughn A. Goerl and wife Stephannie of Great Bend, KS, Valerie A. Besperat and husband Paul of Timken, KS; nine grandchildren, Kyle Goerl and wife Danae of Salt Lake City, UT, Kraig Goerl of Lansing, KS, Sara Goerl of Hutchinson, Lee Goerl of Manhattan, KS, Ryan Goerl and wife Ashley of Henderson, NV, Katie Goerl of Manhattan, KS, Aaron Goerl of Great Bend, KS, Phillip Besperat of Newton, KS, Teresa Satterwhite and husband Dean of Ft. Dix, NJ; two great grandchildren, Jolie and Waylon Satterwhite.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a step-mother, Margaret Dressel, and a sister, Grace Poole.
Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, October 8, 2011, at Trinity United Methodist Church, with Reverends, Pat Ault-Duell and Jim Rhaesa presiding. Friends may call from 2-6 p.m. Friday, with family to receive friends from 4-6 p.m. that afternoon at Elliott Chapel.
Burial will be in Fairlawn Burial Park. Memorials may be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church, Little River Methodist Church or Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, in care of the mortuary. Please visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a personal message for Virgie’s family.
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The Lyons News,
October 7, 2011

MARY AGNES MCCORMICK

Mary Agnes McCormick, a former resident of Lyons, passed away on October 4, 2011. Born Mary Agnes Williams at Farry, Okla., on Jan. 1, 1925, the youngest of five children to Guy James Williams and Zula Mae (Turnage) WilIiams, she moved with her parents to Medicine Lodge, where she performed as a seven-year-old Prairie Flower in the 1932 Peace Treaty Pageant, attended schools and graduated in 1943. On Oct. 24, 1943, she married her high school sweetheart, Horace Elden “Mac” McCormick, who preceded her in death on Aug. 7, 1991, in Lyons, Kansas.
As Mac prepared for deployment in World War II with the United States Navy Seabees, Mary accompanied him to naval bases in Virginia and Rhode Island. The couple moved frequently throughout Kansas after the war, as Mac worked as a store manager for Dillon’s and Mary worked as a housewife, raising their two children and volunteering with church and community organizations. Their home communities included: Lyons, Salina, Lawrence, Junction City and Hutchinson.
Mary served as choir director for several years at the First Presbyterian Church of Lyons, coordinated at the Church Women’s Thrift Shop for many years, was a member of the DAR and enjoyed uncanny success with her bracket picks in her later years of life as she rooted for both KU and K-State basketball programs.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, James P. Thomas E., Guy J., and infant sister Nellie I. Williams, and by one grandson, Aaron Michael McCormick. She is survived by her family in Lawrence: children Maclyn D. Pettengill and Michael L. and Mary F. McCormick; three grandchildren: Lynate Pettengill, Nathan Pettengill and Christy McCormick; and two great-grandchildren: Ethan Miles and Savva Pettengill.
Graveside services will be held on a later date in Lyons. The family suggests memorials to the Church Women’s Thrift Shop.
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The Lyons News,
October 7, 2011

Updated 10/4/11

D. CHRISTINE “Chris” POWERS

D. Christine “Chris” Powers, 68, died August 13, 2011 in Williamsport, Penn. She was born October 26, 1942 in Clay Center to Charles R. and Alberta (Carrick) Moorman.
She was a former longtime resident of Hutchinson and Lyons. She retired in 2007 from Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Center in Hutchinson where she was a secretary. She graduated from Lyons High School, recently completed a two-year on-line Medical Transcription course with Allied School. She was a member of the Church of the Resurrection in Muncy, Penn., and a former member of the Hutchinson Chapter of Sweet Adelines International Singers.
She married Quintein “Ed” Powers on October 3, 1964. He preceded her in death on February 2, 2005. She is survived by two sons, Quintein “Mike” Powers of Olympia, Wash., and Charles “Matt” Powers of Las Vegas, Nev.; two daughters, Meredith A. Powers of San Diego, Calif., and Melissa A. (Jackie) Clinard of Montgomery, Penn.; one sister, Cathy A. (Larry) Leece of Las Vegas, Nev., and six grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at a later date and announced by Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
October 4, 2011

Updated 9/30/11

DALE WILSON BALLARD

Dale Wilson Ballard, 91, died Sept. 28, 2011 at Rice County District Hospital. He was born May 27, 1920 at Beloit to Clinton Myrl, Sr. and Lela May (Wilson) Ballard.
He was a resident of Lyons since 2004, formerly of Ellinwood. He was a retired farmer. He was a veteran of the U.W. Army serving in WWII and the Korean War.
He was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus #1187, VFW and the Ellinwood Lions Club, all of Ellinwood.
He married Marjorie Clare Grant on April 18, 1941 at Beloit. She died Oct. 26, 1990. He is survived by one daughter, Margaret and her husband Mark Chain of Lyons; two granddaughters, Jeannie and her husband Brian Unruh of Louisburg and Christie and her husband Tom Flynn of Andover and seven great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marjorie; two daughters, Kathleen Ann and Judith Clare; three brothers, Clinton Myrl Jr., Virgil Wayne and Billie Dean Ballard and a grandson, Matthew John Chain.
Services will be Saturday, October 1, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Ellinwood with Father Charles Mazouch officiating. Calling time will be Friday from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Altar Society Rosary at 3:00 and Virgil service Friday at 7:00 p.m. both at the funeral home. Burial will be at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood.
Memorials can be made to Good Samaritan Society of Lyons or to St. Joseph’s School Living Legacy Fund.
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The Lyons News
September 29, 2011

GUY ANTHONY CATON

Guy Anthony Caton, 43, died September 23, 2011 at his home in Ellinwood. He was born May 27, 1968 in Petaluma, Calif. to Andy LeRoy and Valorie Downing Caton.
He was a seven year resident of Ellinwood, formerly of Santa Rosa, Calif. He was an employee of L & H Unit Repair.
He was survived by one daughter, Jennifer Caton of Santa Rosa, Calif; one brother, Andy Caton of Ellinwod; two sisters, Loretta Jennett and Carol Langham of Santa Rosa, Calif.; one grandmother, Vera Caton of Ellinwood.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Brian Caton.
Services are pending at a later date in California.
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The Lyons News
September 29, 2011

DARYL BROCK

Daryl Brock, 65, passed away Sept. 28, 2011, at his home in Little River after a year-long battle with cancer. Daryl was born May 22, 1946 in Marysville, California to Donald and Thelma Sherman Brock, moving to Lyons, Kansas in 1951 after his father’s death and raised by his mother and his second father, Paul Fuller. After graduating from Lyons High School in 1964, Daryl completed Ohio Meat Cutter’s School. He married Brenda Janssen on June 7, 1969 and they settled in Little River. She survives.
Daryl was an entrepreneur. Before retiring six years ago, he an his wife owned and operated Fuller’s Market in Little River for 38 years. In addition, for several years they also owned and operated The Tee Pee Room Club and later the Hotel Ly-Kan and restaurant. Other ventures included a catering business, rental houses, and a goat farm. This past July, Daryl completed his 55th year running Brock’s Fireworks Stand.
Daryl was a member of the United Methodist Church, Cornerstone Masonic Lodge #219 AF AM, both of Little River, ISIS Shrine. He was also a former member of Lyons Town and Country Board, Little River Lions Club and Bootstrap. His hobbies included gambling, playing cards with his friends, golfing and rooting for K-state sports.
Daryl is survived by his wife and two daughters, Heather Steinert and Michelle Brock, as well as his son-in-law, Jeffrey Steinert, and grandsons, Brock Steinert, Alexander Steinert and Nathan Steinert, all of Wichita; his mother-in-law, Doris Janssen of Lyons and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Daryl was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Don Brock, Richard Fuller and Dennis Fuller.
Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011 at United methodist Church in Little River with Pastor Theresa Forshee officiating. Visitation will be held at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons on Friday, Sept. 30 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. with family present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River. Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Daryl’s life immediately following these services at the Little River American Legion building.
Memorials may be made to the Cornerstone Masonic Lodge #219 AF AM, United Methodist Church or Reno County Hospice in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News
September 29, 2011

EVELYN MAY MILLER

Evelyn May Miller, 80, died September 27, 2011 at Kansas Heart Hospital in Wichita. She was born March 17, 1931 at Great Bend to Ralph Lester and Ida Panning Bryant.
She was a lifetime resident of Barton County. She was a homemaker and a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ellinwood, past officer in Church Youth League, Lutheran Women’s Missionary Leagu, Ellinwood Ladies Quilting Club and past 4-H superintendent.
She was married to Carl George Miller on April 9, 1950 at Ellinwood. He died April 10, 2011.
She is survived by three sons Maurice (Lila) Miller of Garden City, Keith (Connie) Miller of Great Bend and Don (Julie) Miller of Geneseo; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by five brothers, Melvin, Vernon, Ralph Orville, Donald and Glenn Bryant; and one sister, Edith Bryant.
Services will be Friday, September 30, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Ellinwood. Rev. Jeff Frakes will officiate.
Burial will be at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. Memorials can be made to St. John’s Building Fund or to the Barton County 4-H Council.
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The Lyons News
September 29, 2011

RAYMOND SANGSTER

Raymond Charles Sangster passed away on Sept. 14, 2011 in Cottonwood, Ariz. He was born on March 15, 1928 in Lyons, the son of Charles Ford and Margaret Fern (Sheets) Sangster.
He attended Lyons High School, and farmed near Lyons as a teenager. Raymond graduated from the University of Chicago in 1947 and earned his PhD in Chemistry from MIT in 1951. He married Laura Marie Farnum in 1955 and they had two daughters, Lynne Sangster Fovinci of Menlo Park, Calif. and Rebecca Sangster Jensen of Mountain View, Calif. He later married Kathleen Nancy Bryant in 1993, and they resided in Templeton, Calif. and more recently in Cornville, Ariz.
He worked as a research scientist at Texas Instruments in Dallas, Texas in the 1950s and early 1960s and then in technical management at General Telephone and Electronics on Long Island, N.Y. and the National Institute of Standards and Technology in Boulder, Colo. Later in his career he was a technical author, editor and translator for the Gmelin Institute in Frankfurt, Germany. Raymond was devoted to his family and loved gardening, photography, music, travel and the world of ideas. He visited and/or lived in all 50 of the United States and many foreign countries.
He is survived by his wife, two daughters, Lynne and her husband Mario and Becky and her husband John; one step-son, David Christensen and his wife Staci; one step-daughter Lisa Elliott and her husband Daniel, and seven grandchildren, Christopher, Bryan, Laura, Damien, Josef, Brady and Alyssa.
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The Lyons News
September 29, 2011

JAMES DENNIS (JD) SHELDON

James Dennis (JD) Sheldon, 31, died September 26, 2011 at Ellinwood District Hospital. He was born November 26, 1979 at Great Bend to Dennis L. and Karen K. (Spring-Norwood) Sheldon.
He was a resident of Chase. He worked as a truck driver for Barton County Feeders at Ellinwood, a mechanic for Straub International at Great Bend and Ochs, Inc. of Otis. He was a member of the National Songwriters Association.
He was survived by a brother, Robert and wife, Susan Spring of Derby; two sisters, Debbie and husband, Kirk Glenn of Ellinwood and Deadra Schlotthauer and fiance, Larry Cook of Ellinwood; father and wife, Sue Sheldon of Chase; four nieces; two nephews and four great-nephews. He was preceded by his mother, and a brother, Edward Paul Sheldon.
Services were Thursday, September 29, 2011 at Calvary Baptist Church in Ellinwood. Rev. Mike Joiner will officiate.
Burial will be at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. Memorials can be made to EMS or to Ellinwood Hospital Auxiliary.
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The Lyons News
September 29, 2011

HARRIETT L. SCHULTZ

Harriett L. Schulz, 89, died September 22, 2011 at Asbury Park in Newton. She was born August 24, 1922 in Sterling to Fred W. and Lettie (Lattimer) Brooks.
She was a longtime resident of Sterling moving to Newton in 2003. She was a homemaker. She was a member of the Lutheran faith.
She was preceded in death by her first husband Merritt Ermey in 1970. She married Malcolm Schulz on October 29, 1976 in Pratt. He preceded her in death on Sept. 7, 1990.
She is survived by two sons, Larry Ermey of Derby and Kenneth Ermey of Conroe, Texas; one daughter, Patricia Jordan of Wichita; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
There will be no service. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Asbury Park Greenhouse #405 or Harry Hynes Hospice in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
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The Lyons News,
September 27, 2011

JUDITH A. BENNETT

Judith A. Bennett, 70, died September 25, 2011 at Rice County District Hospital. She was born August 13, 1941 in Ponca City, Okla. to Wesley and Evelyn (Preston) Dorman.
She was formerly a resident of Arkansas City moving to Lyons in 1973. She retired as a laundry aide/homemaker for Lyons Good Samaritan Center after 16 years.
She is survived by four daughters, Diane Lange of Carson City, Nev., Paula Kottas of Littler River, Ginny Zachgo of Lincoln and Mindy Hoyt of Lyons; two brothers Bill Dorman of Lyons and Wayne Dorman of Arkansas City; one sister, Barbara Strasburg of Lyons; 13 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Sandra Bennett and one brother, Robert Dorman.
Funeral services will be Friday, September 30, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home. Pastor Kendal Connor will officiate. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Rice County District Hospital in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
September 27, 2011

DARLENE WEATHERMAN

Darlene Weatherman, 60, died September 21, 2011 at Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita. She was born December 9, 1950 in Hoisington to Ira P. and Margaret (Heinz) McKay.
She was resident of Chase since 1992 and formerly of Hoisington. She was the former office manager for Karlin Communications and Cablevision and a Pastor. She graduated from Great Bend High School. She was a former member of Immanuel Baptist Church of Great Bend and a member of Victory Church of Chase. She married Larry Weatherman Sr. on May 25, 1968 at Great Bend.
She is survived by her husband of the home; two sons, Larry Weatherman Jr. of Chase and Steve Weatherman of Shawnee; two brothers, Charles McKay of Hutchinson and Gilbert mcKay of Wichita; two sisters, Sonja Viegra of Great Bend, Cheryl McKay and six grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Pat McKay and twin grandsons, Eli and Reece Weatherman.
Memorial services will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home with Pastor Larry Weatherman officiating. Family will greet friends from 1:00 until service time on Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorials can be made to Diabetes Foundation, Kidney Foundation or Victory Church in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
September 23, 2011

AGATHA V. PIHL

Agatha V. Pihl of Brighton, Colo. passed into eternal rest on July 20, 2011 at age 75. “Aggie” was born in Lyons on April 6, 1936 to Henry and Clara Byard. While attending business school in Hutchinson she met her beloved husband of 33 years, Bill Gacke, on a blind date. Aggie and Bill moved around the country following Bill’s Navy career. In 1966, they adopted a baby girl, Colette, their only child. The Gacke family resided in Dallas, Texas at the time of Bill’s death in 1987.
Aggie returned to Hutchinson in 1992, where she met her surviving spouse, Ralph E. Pihl. Aggie and Ralph resided in Salina, Houston, Texas, and finally Brighton, Colo. Aggie was never afraid to try new things, including a career as a buyer for the Navy, a wallpaper hanger, an interior decorator, and a world traveler. Her love of animals, especially her cats, was well known to all her friends. Aggie had a simple, trusting faith in God that she found in her travels and relationships.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Donald and Howard Byard. Survivors include husband, Ralph Pihl, daughter, son-in-law, and grandson, Colette, Fred and Philip Apffel of Houston, Texas; her sisters-in-law, Dorothy Byard of Lyons, and Carol Byard of Knoxville, Tenn.; nephew Dennis Byard and family of Hutchinson, niece Sherry Myers and family of Salina; nieces, Sandra Hubbard and Pam Thomas of Knoxville, Tenn.; nephew Tony Byard of Loudon, Tenn., nephew Chad Byard of New Orleans, La., several great-nieces and nephews, and the many relatives and friends who will greatly miss her. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m., Sept. 24, at Lyons Municipal Cemetery, Lyons. Immediately following the service her family will greet friends at Birzer Funeral Home, 214 W. Ave. So., Lyons for a time of visiting.
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The Lyons News,
September 23, 2011

MARILYN RAYE PREVITERA

Marilyn Raye Previtera, 59, died Sept. 19, 2011 at Omaha, Neb. She was born Dec. 4, 1951 in Garden City. the daughter of Gene M. and Fern L. (Borgman) Webb. They preceded her in death.
She was a resident of Nebraska for the past 3 years, formerly of Lyons. She was an early education teacher having taught in Lyons, Great Bend and Columbus, Neb. She graduated from Lyons High School in 1969, and Sterling College with a bachelors degree in Education. She was a member of Faith Bible Church.
She is survived by one son, Jonathan Previtera of Omaha, Neb; one daughter, Angela Slininger of Omaha, Neb; one brother, Aaron Webb of Overland Park; two sisters, Miriam Pankratz of Newton and Gloria Pierson of Aurora, Neb; and five grandchildren.
Memorial services will be a private family service at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Sunflower Deversified Services in Great Bend in care of Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
September 23, 2011

HELEN MAE FREES

Helen Mae Frees, 86, died Sept. 20, 2011 at Rehabilitation Center of Raymore in Raymore, MO. She was born December 28, 1924 in rural Ellinwood, Barton County, the daughter of William and Bertha E. (Bayer) Peters.
She was a long-time resident of Great Bend, living in Arizona and Missouri for the last 8 years. She graduated from Ellinwood High School in 1942. She was a volunteer with both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. She was active in forming an EHU, Bridge clubs and women’s Cosmopolitan Club.
She was a homemaker, secretary for Wolf Mill at Ellinwood and business manager and part owner of Frees/Dunlap Pharmacy in Great Bend. She was a member of Immanuel United Church of Christ in Ellinwood. She married Lynwood P. Frees on December 3, 1945 at Ellinwood. He preceded her in death on August 5, 1999.
Other survivors include a son Jerry Lynn Frees (Carol) of Ellinwood; one daughter Janice Lynnette Hildebrand (Steve) of Lees Summit, MO and 2 grandchildren.
Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sat, Sept. 24, 2011 at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Ellinwood with Rev. Katrina Palan presiding. Calling time is 1:00 - 8:00 p.m. Friday with family receiving friends from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Kimple Funeral Home in Ellinwood. Burial will be at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. Memorials can be made to Immanuel United Church of Christ, Heart of America Alzheimer’s Association Team and Helen Mae Hope.
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The Lyons News,
September 23, 2011

Updated 9/20/11

AGARTHA V. PHIL

Agatha V. Pihl of Brighton, Colo. passed into eternal rest on July 20, 2011 at age 75. “Aggie” was born in Lyons on April 6, 1936 to Henry and Clara Byard. While attending business school in Hutchinson she met her beloved husband of 33 years, Bill Gacke, on a blind date. Aggie and Bill moved around the country following Bill’s Navy career. In 1966, they adopted a baby girl, Colette, their only child. The Gacke family resided in Dallas, Texas at the time of Bill’s death in 1987.
Aggie returned to Hutchinson in 1992, where she met her surviving spouse, Ralph E. Pihl. Aggie and Ralph resided in Salina, Houston, Texas, and finally Brighton, Colo. Aggie was never afraid to try new things, including a career as a buyer for the Navy, a wallpaper hanger, an interior decorator, and a world traveler. Her love of animals, especially her cats, was well known to all her friends. Aggie had a simple, trusting faith in God that she found in her travels and relationships.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Donald and Howard Byard. Survivors include husband, Ralph Pihl, daughter, son-in-law, and grandson, Colette, Fred and Philip Apffel of Houston, Texas; her sisters-in-law, Dorothy Byard of Lyons, and Carol Byard of Knoxville, Tenn.; nephew Dennis Byard and family of Hutchinson, niece Sherry Myers and family of Salina; nieces, Sandra Hubbard and Pam Thomas of Knoxville, Tenn.; nephew Tony Byard of Loudon, Tenn., nephew Chad Byard of New Orleans, La., several great-nieces and nephews, and the many relatives and friends who will greatly miss her. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m., Sept. 24, at Lyons Municipal Cemetery, Lyons. Immediately following the service her family will greet friends at Birzer Funeral Home, 214 W. Ave. So., Lyons for a time of visiting.
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The Lyons News,
September 20, 2011

VELMA MAE SHORT

MIDLAND, TX - Velma Mae Short, 85, died Sept. 18, 2011 at Rice Co. District Hospital in Lyons. She was born May 30, 1926 in Alden the daughter of Edna Ray and Mae Julia Barnes Conley.
Formerly of Chase, she was a resident of Midland, TX since 1961. She was a homemaker and Avon Representative and baby sitter. She graduated Raymond High School and was member of Wilshire Park Baptist Church in Midland:W.M.U.
She married Newton Lane Short in Raymond on Sept. 2, 1946. He preceded her in death on Jan. 9, 1976.
She is survived by 2 sons, Lonnie Joe Short, Lyle DeWayne Short both of Midland, TX; a daughter, Lana Oberle of Chase, 2 sisters, Edna Rick, Ellsworth, Edith Baldwin, Hobbs, New Mexico, 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren. A brother, James Ray Conley preceded her in death.
Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011 at Raymond Baptist Church, with Rev. Bob Bethell officiating. Interment will be at Rayumond Hilltop Cemetery. Visitation is 5 to 7 p.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons, with family present.
Memorial to Raymond Baptist Church or Wilshire Park Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
September 20, 2011

BILL KELLY

Bill Kelley, 76, died September 18, 2011 at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born July 5, 1935 in Stafford County, the son of Raymond and Faye Jones Kelley. He had worked as a sales manager for Winchester Packing Company for 25 years. Later he worked as Vice President of National Sales for Doskocil’s for 10 years. After retiring he had a lawn service business. He was a member of Sterling Assembly of God Church and the Sterling Golf Course. He served as an M.P. in the United States Army in Weirhoff, Germany. He married Wilda Blue in 1956. They later divorced. He married Candy Cain on April 16, 2004. She survives.
Other survivors include a son, Shawn Kelley (Cathy) of Hutchinson; 4 daughters, Lynn Sarkett (Daryl) of El Dorado; Kelly Phillips (David) of Shackleford, Virgina; Lisa McKinnis (Tim) of Lyons; and Janet Heter of McPherson; a brother, Bud Kelley (Joan) of Sterling; 17 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, Bob and Ben Kelley; and two sisters, Betty Howell and Bernita Henks.
Cremation is planned. Memorial services will be held at 2:00 PM Thursday at the Sterling Assembly of God Church, with Pastor Kendall Connor presiding. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the church, in care of Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home and Crematory, Hutchinson. To leave a message for the family, visit: www.PenwellGabelHutchinson.com.
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The Lyons News,
September 20, 2011

JANE K. SMYRES

Jane K Smyres, 93, died Sept. 8, 2011 at the Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. She was born Sept. 17, 1917 in Little River to George Luther and Emily Bush Yocom. A lifetime resident of Little River Jane was a registered nurse working for Dr. A.F. Schmidt for 24 years, and worked at St. Elizabeth Hospital, Lyons Hospital, Larned State Hospital, and a Dairyman’s wife and homemaker. She graduated from Little River High School in 1934 and attended nursing training at Larned State Hospital and graduated from St. Elizabeth School of Nursing. Jane was a member of the Congregational Church, Order of Eastern Star both of Little River.
She married Albert LeRoy Smyres on Feb. 14, 1940 in Little River. He died Dec. 11, 1983. Survivors include: two sons, Mike and Cheryl Smyres of Windom, and Dwight Smyres of Little River, two grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Her sister Margaret Smyres preceded her in death. Graveside services were held Monday Sept. 12, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. at the Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River with Pastor Tom Hallowell officiating. Memorials may be made to the Sandstone Heights Nursing Home, Little River Senior Center, or Hospice Care of Kansas in care of the Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
September 12, 2011

JOHN G. ADAMS

John G. Adams, 84, died Sept. 7, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was born Jan. 29, 1927 in Latham to Roy J. and Gladys Goldie McCarty Adams. John was a longtime resident of Chase having moved to Lyons in 2010. He worked as an oil field pumper and was a member of the former St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Chase, Eagles Lodge in Great Bend, and Moose Lodge in Hutchinson. He married Vera M. Pfannenstiel in Great Bend on Sept. 10, 1957.
Survivors include: wife, Vera of the home; two sons, Johnny and Monica Adams of Broken Arrow, Okla., Curtis and Melody Adams of Lyons; daughter, Rena and Jerry McKenna of Claflin; brother, Harry Adams of Great Bend; eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Gene Adams, LaDon Adams, Merle Adams, Birdene Adams, Earl “Tex” Adams, and sister, Louise Estabrook.
Graveside services were held on Monday, Sept. 12, 2011 at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Chase with Father Robert Spencer officiating. Burial was at the St. Mary Cemetery in Chase. Memorials may be made to St. Paul Catholic Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
September 12, 2011

Updated 9/16/11

ARLENE LOIS BARBER

Arlene Lois Barber, 81, died Sept. 12, 2011 at the Senior Care Home in Overland Park. She was born July 8, 1930 to William Peters and Bertha Elizabeth Bayer Peters. Arlene was a longtime resident of Ellinwood, moving to Kansas City in 2007. She was a business graduate of Fort Hays University and was an active Alumnus for many years. She also held degrees in psychology, elementary education, sociology and social work with an emphasis in drug and alcohol counseling. She was a member of the Immanuel United Church of Christ in Ellinwood, and was active with Ellinwood schools, her woman’s circle, and Barton County Community College.
Arlene married Roy Jesse Barber on June 1, 1952 in Ellinwood. He died Oct. 3, 2006. Survivors include: son, Rex A. Barber of Colorado Springs, Colo.; daughters, Renee M. Button of Wichita, Rhonda K. Groves of Kansas City, Mo., and Kristie B. LeMond of Tempe, Ariz.; one sister Helen Mae Frees of Raymore, Mo., and six grandchildren, Seren LeMond, Haley Button, Matthew Groves, Samuel Groves, Sara Barber, and Madeline Barber.
Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18, 2011 at the Immanuel United Church of Christ in Ellinwood with Reverend Katrina Palan officiating. Visitations will be 5-8 p.m. Saturday at the Kimple funeral home with family receiving friends from 6-7 p.m. Burial will be at the Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. Memorials may be made to Immanuel United Church of Christ, Fort Hays State University, of EMI.
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The Lyons News,
September 16, 2011

Marvin E. Chappel

Marvin E. Chappel, was born March 18,1924 and died September 3, 2011. He was the son of Clifton & Cecil (Rush) Chappel.
Marvin graduated from Little River High School and shortly thereafter enlisted in the Navy, serving in WWII until 1946. He married Florene Voth on June 1, 1947. They lived and farmed in the Lyons/Saxman area for 50 years. After retirement, the couple moved to Hutchinson. They were members of First Baptist Church, volunteered at Dillon Living Center and the Christian Soup Ministry; and served on the board and on the mission team of Haiti Love and Faith.
Marvin is survived by his wife; four daughters, Ronda (Mike) Miller of Topeka, Reatha (Larry) Walker of Lyons, Marvlyn (Raymond, Jr.) Soeken of Lyons, and Connie (Dexter)Klein of Dickinson, Texas; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; sisters, Betty Rumsey of Huchinson and Jalayne Dirksen of Wichita.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Pauline Keller, and a brother, Garol D. Chappel.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 8th & Main, Hutchinson, with pastor Bob Hanthorn officiating. Burial was at in Memorial Park. Military honors were conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard. Visitation was Monday and Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary, with family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, Haiti Love and Faith, or Hospice Care of Reno County in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS, 67501. Friends may leave condolences at www.elliottmortuary.com,
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The Lyons News,
September 16, 2011

Updated 9/13/11

Goldie M. Gates

Goldie M. Gates was born November 19, 1928 in Jefferson City, Missouri and died September 7, 2011. She was 82.
Her parents were Robert A. and Margaret Mezzacasa Gillespie. She was a resident of Chase since 1942 and is formerly from Jefferson City, Missouri. She was a certified Nurse Aide at Rice County District Hospital. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Chase and a member of the American Legion Auxilary of Lyons.
She was married to Junior LeRoy Gates on April 25, 1946 in Lyons. Her spouse preceded her June 12, 1971.
She was survived by 3 daughters, Marjorie Clark, Judy Wilcox, Janet Foulger all of Chase; 2 brothers, Bill Gillespie of Kansas City, Missouri; Curtis Gillespie of Chase; 2 sisters, Ottavia Ludwick of Sterling; Betty Gillespie of Chase; 9 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by 4 brothers and 3 sisters.
Funeral services will be Saturday at 10:30 a.m. on September 10, 2011 at First Baptist Church in Chase.
Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery.
Visitation is Friday, September 9, 2011 from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home with family present from 5:00 to 7:00.
Memorials made to First Baptist Church of Hospice Care of Kansas in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
September 9, 2011

NORMAN HERMAN JULIUS SPLITTER

Nornan Herman Julius Splitter, formerly of Geneseo, Burrton, and Hesston, Kansas and most recently of Zion, Ill., went home to be with the Lord on August 27, 2011 after a brief illness. Norman was born August 24, 1916. He was a veteran of World War 11.
Norman was preceded in death by his wife Wilda Jean (Burrell), mother Martha (Kaaz) Splitter, father Simon, five brotbers: Vic1or, Louis, Wesley, Edgar, and August (Jim).
Norman is survived hy three children: Larry (Janice) Splitter, Janice (Bob) Watkins, and Marlys (Homer) Jenkins; five grandchildren: Todd, George, James, Amy and Lance; six great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews; a sister-in-law Pauline Splitter, and a brother-in-law Royce Burrell.
A memorial service will be held at the Lorraine Baptist Church in Lorraine on Saturday, September 10 at 10 a.m. with burial in the Lorraine Cemetery immediately following the service. After the graveside the Lorraine Baptist Church is graciously providing a community meal alIowing time for visiting and celebrating Norman’s life.
In lieu of flowers, suggested contributions may be made in Norman’s memory to the Gideons International, Heifer International or the Lorraine Baptist Church.
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The Lyons News,
September 2, 2011

Bernadine Kimble

Bernadine Kimble, 95, died on Sept. 4, 2011 at the Good Samaritan Center in Lyons. She was born Aug. 26, 1916 in Marquette to August and Katherine Kaylor Engstrom. Bernadine was a Lyons resident since 1968, formerly of Bushton. She was a homemaker, Grace Lutheran Church custodian, a member of the Grace Lutheran Church, Gray Lady at Rice County District Hospital, and Thrift shop volunteer, all of Lyons.
She married Floyd V. Kimble in Freemount on Sept. 1, 1935. He died Feb. 15, 1975. Survivors include, son, James Curtiss Kimble of Kansas City, KS; daughter, Karen Sitts of McPherson, ten grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Kathye Oberle; son, Dennis Ray Kimble; sister, Carleen Welch; and great-granddaughter, Aspen Dawn Bailey.
Funeral Services were Thursday, Sept. 8, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at the Grace Lutheran Church of Lyons. Pastor Tim Leaf officiated. Burial was held at 2 p.m. Thursday, at the Freemount Cemetery in Marquette. Memorials may be made to the Grace Lutheran Church, Hospice Care of Kansas, or Center for Basic Cancer Research KSU in care of the Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
September 9, 2011

Jerry L. Kaiser

Jerry L. Kaiser, 61, died Sept. 3, 2011 at Ellinwood District Hospital. He was born April 3, 1950 in Great Bend to John and Leona Blazek Kaiser. He was a lifetime resident of Ellinwood, and retired in Law Enforcement. He was married to Dana Fischer on Sept. 8, 1979 in Great Bend.
Survivors include, son, Chad L. and Kendra Kaiser of Great Bend; daughters, Christa J. and Charlie Chesmore of Topeka, and Cami S. and Josh Thomas of Ellinwood; brother, Marvin and Linda Kaiser of Great Bend, and eight grandchildren.
His parents and a sister preceded him in death. Funeral services were Wed, Sept. 7, 2011 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Ellinwood with Father Charles Mazouch officiating. The family received visitors on Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Burial took place in the Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery at Ellinwood. Memorials may be made to the Ellinwood EMS or to the Wetlands at Cheyenne Bottoms.
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The Lyons News,
September 9, 2011

Marvin E. Chappel

Marvin E. Chappel, was born March 18,1924 and died September 3, 2011. He was the son of Clifton & Cecl (Rush) Chappel.
Marvin graduated from Little River High School and shortly thereafter enlisted in the Navy, serving in WWII until 1946. He married Florene Vothon on June 1, 1947. They lived and farmed in the Lyons/Saxman area for 50 years. After retirement, the couple moved to Hutchinson. They were members of First Baptist Church, volunteered at Dillon Living Center and the Christian Soup Ministry; and served on the board and on the mission team of Haiti Love and Faith.
Marvin is survived by his wife; four daughters, Ronda (Mike) Miller of Topeka, Reatha (Larry) Walker of Lyons, Marvlyn (Raymond, Jr.) of Lyons, and Connie (Dexter)Klein of Dickinson, Texas; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; sisters, Betty Rumsey of Huchinson and Jalayne Dicksen of Wichita.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Pauline Keller, and a brother, Garol D. Chappel.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 8th & Main, Hutchinson, with pastor Bob Hanthorn officiating. Burial was at in Memorial Park. Military honors will be conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard. Visitation was Monday and Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary, with family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, Haiti Love and Faith, or Hospice Care of Reno County in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS, 67501. Friends may leave odolences at www.elliottmortuary.com
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The Lyons News,
September 9, 2011

NORMAN HERMAN JULIUS SPLITTER

Nornan Herman Julius Splitter, formerly of Geneseo, Burrton, and Hesston, Kansas and most recently of Zion, Ill., went home to be with the Lord on August 27, 2011 after a brief illness. Norman was born August 24, 1916. He was a veteran of World War 11.
Norman was preceded in death by his wife Wilda Jean (Burrell), mother Martha (Kaaz) Splitter, father Simon, five brotbers: Vic1or, Louis, Wesley, Edgar, and August (Jim).
Norman is survived hy three children: Larry (Janice) Splitter, Janice (Bob) Watkins, and Marlys (Homer) Jenkins; five grandchildren: Todd, George, James, Amy and Lance; six great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews; a sister-in-law Pauline Splitter, and a brother-in-law Royce Burrell.
A memorial service will be held at the Lorraine Baptist Church in Lorraine on Saturday, September 10 at 10 a.m. with burial in the Lorraine Cemetery immediately following the service. After the graveside the Lorraine Baptist Church is graciously providing a community meal alIowing time for visiting and celebrating Norman’s life.
In lieu of flowers, suggested contributions may be made in Norman’s memory to the Gideons International, Heifer International or the Lorraine Baptist Church.
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The Lyons News,
September 2, 2011

Updated 8/23/11

DONALD L. LAWRENCE

Donald L. Lawrence, 88, died August 11, 2011 in Wichita. He was born March 9, 1923 in Olathe to Roy and Estella Lunsford Lawrence. A resident of Sterling since 1958, he graduated from Shawnee Mission North in 1942, and Kansas State University in 1949 with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education.
He was a 4-H Extension Agent in Lyons County for seven years before moving to Rice County, and retiring from Farmers Coop at Sterling in January 1988. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, American Legion, Sterling Country Club, and past 4-H club leader all in Sterling, and a former chairman of the Rice County Arts Council. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during World War II, in the 1st Division 1st Army being wounded in France and received the Purple Heart.
He married Marilyn P. “Pat” Redmond in Erie on June 5, 1949.
Survivors include: wife, Pat, of the home; daughter, Melanie and Gary Twineham of Hutchinson; son, Brain and Joni Lawrence of Lawrence; brother Dean Lawrence; sister Jean Hopkins; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. A sister, Irene Amos, and a grandson, Jason Adams, preceded him in death.
Funeral services were at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 15, 2011, at the United Methodist Church in Sterling, with Military Honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Reverend Marvin Ewertt officiated. Burial will be in the Sterling Community Cemetery at a later date. Visitation was held on Sunday, August 14, 2011 at the Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the United Methodist Church in Sterling or donor’s choice, in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
August 16, 2011

ALMA L. FAIR

Alma L. Fair, 96, died August 15, 2011 at the Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was born February 27, 1915 in rural Reno County to John Logan and Katie Elizabeth Updegrove Bennett.
She was a lifetime resident of the Alden area. She graduated from Alden High School in 1932. She attended and graduated from Hutchinson Junior College and Kansas State University with a degree in home economics in 1938. She was a homemaker.
She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alden, Alden ABWM; She was the past president of Kansas ABWM, YWCA and Alden Pride. She was a member of the AAUW and was a director of Alden State Bank.
On June 12, 1938, she married Fred L. Fair in Alden. He died March 6, 1993.
Survivors include three daughters, Sondra (Joe) Walter of Meade, Janiece Rowland of Alden, and Arlene (Terry) Drach of Littleton, Colo.; seven grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceeded in death by a daughter, Kathryn Jane Fair; a brother Raymond Bennett; sisters Mildred Stout and Elda Wyatt; and a son-in-law, Chuck Rowland.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, August 18, 2011 at the First Baptist Church in Alden with the Rev. Bob Bethell officiating. A private family interment will preceed the service in Alden Valley Cemetery in Alden. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m.
Memorials may be made to Alden First Baptist Church or Sterling Presbyterian Manor, in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
August 16, 2011

DOROTHY FERN MILLER

Dorothy Fern Miller, 66, died August 14, 2011 at Hospice House, Hutchinson.
She was born March 30, 1945 in Wichita, the daughter of William and Dornetha Hunt Mercer.
She married Jesse Simmons on January 6, 1963 in Wichita.  He died August 10, 1987.  In January of 1988 she married Charles Miller in Lyons.  He died August 12, 2008.
She was a former CNA at Lyons Good Samaritan and a former employee of Fuller Brush, Lyons.
She is survived by three children; Gabriel Simmons, South Hutchinson, Patricia Carter, Salina, and Daniel Simmons, Hutchinson, siblings; Mable Moore, Doyce King, and Billy Mercer, all of Wichita, grandsons; Jesse Dorman and Wayne Dorman, and great-grandson, Logan Swenson.
She was preceded in death by three siblings; Deloris Mercer, Virgil Mercer, and Esther Grover.
Services are at 2 p.m. on Friday August 19, 2011 at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home and Crematory with burial in Penwell-Gabel Cemetery and Mausoleum.  Friends could sign the register book Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to the Dorothy F. Miller Memorial Fund in care of the funeral home.  Please visit www.penwellgabelhutchinson.com to leave personal condolences for the family.
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The Lyons News,
August 19, 2011

IRENE ANKERHOLZ KENNEDY

V. Irene Kennedy of Longmont died August 17, 2011 at Longmont United Hospital. She was 84.
Irene was born on March 1, 1927 on a farm near Chase to Henry and Lena (Blank) Ankerholz. She graduated from Chase High School. She started work during high school as a telephone operator and continued during World War II. She married Allan G. Kennedy on November 29, 1946 in Bushton.
The Kennedy family moved to Longmont from Sterling in 1959. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church. She worked at Dean’s Fashion, Leanin Tree and Joslins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Richard Ankerholz, and three half brothers and sister. Irene is survived by her husband Allan; two daughters: Denise (Joe) Winslow of Mead and Kathy (Robert) Turner of Avondale, Ariz.; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; a brother Edward Ankerholz, sister Joyce Cheuvront, sister-in-law Marian Ankerholz, all of Kansas, and brother and sister-in-law Willis and Florence Revel of Longmont.
Visitation will be from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Howe Mortuary on Sunday, August 21. Funeral services will be at Howe Mortuary at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 22. Burial will follow at Longmont Mountain View Cemetery.
Memorial may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice Care of Boulder and Broomfield Counties. Please share memories, thoughts and condolences with the family at www.howemortuary.com.
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The Lyons News,
August 19, 2011

GENE CONSIDINE

Gene Considine, 90, died Aug. 15, 2011 at the Mennonite Friendship Manor, in South Hutchinson. He was born May 17, 1921 in Reno County to William James and Ella Mae Frick Considine Sr. A lifetime resident of Sterling, he graduated from Sterling High School and retired as a farmer. Gene was a member of the Farmer’s Co-op of Sterling and Nickerson, and Farm Bureau. He was married to Bonnie Jean Break on Aug. 12, 1944 in Lyons; she died March 5, 1992.
Survivors include: son, Denny Considine and wife LuAnn of Sterling; daughter, Rhonda Baker and husband Carl of Hutchinson; three grandchildren and one great-grandson. He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son, Bobbie Joe Considine, brothers, Roy Considine, and William “Pete” Considine Jr., and grandson Bryant Dean Baker.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 20, 2011 at the United Methodist Church in Sterling, with Reverend Marvin Ewertt officiating. Burial will be at the Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation is 2-8 p.m. Friday with family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m. at the Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Memorials may be made to the Sterling United Methodist Church or Mennonite Manor in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
August 19, 2011

Updated 8/16/11

DONALD L. LAWRENCE

Donald L. Lawrence, 88, died August 11, 2011 in Wichita. He was born March 9, 1923 in Olathe to Roy and Estella Lunsford Lawrence. A resident of Sterling since 1958, he graduated from Shawnee Mission North in 1942, and Kansas State University in 1949 with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education.
He was a 4-H Extension Agent in Lyons County for seven years before moving to Rice County, and retiring from Farmers Coop at Sterling in January 1988. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, American Legion, Sterling Country Club, and past 4-H club leader all in Sterling, and a former chairman of the Rice County Arts Council. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during World War II, in the 1st Division 1st Army being wounded in France and received the Purple Heart.
He married Marilyn P. “Pat” Redmond in Erie on June 5, 1949.
Survivors include: wife, Pat, of the home; daughter, Melanie and Gary Twineham of Hutchinson; son, Brain and Joni Lawrence of Lawrence; brother Dean Lawrence; sister Jean Hopkins; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. A sister, Irene Amos, and a grandson, Jason Adams, preceded him in death.
Funeral services were at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 15, 2011, at the United Methodist Church in Sterling, with Military Honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Reverend Marvin Ewertt officiated. Burial will be in the Sterling Community Cemetery at a later date. Visitation was held on Sunday, August 14, 2011 at the Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the United Methodist Church in Sterling or donor’s choice, in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
August 16, 2011

ALMA L. FAIR

Alma L. Fair, 96, died August 15, 2011 at the Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was born February 27, 1915 in rural Reno County to John Logan and Katie Elizabeth Updegrove Bennett.
She was a lifetime resident of the Alden area. She graduated from Alden High School in 1932. She attended and graduated from Hutchinson Junior College and Kansas State University with a degree in home economics in 1938. She was a homemaker.
She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alden, Alden ABWM; She was the past president of Kansas ABWM, YWCA and Alden Pride. She was a member of the AAUW and was a director of Alden State Bank.
On June 12, 1938, she married Fred L. Fair in Alden. He died March 6, 1993.
Survivors include three daughters, Sondra (Joe) Walter of Meade, Janiece Rowland of Alden, and Arlene (Terry) Drach of Littleton, Colo.; seven grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceeded in death by a daughter, Kathryn Jane Fair; a brother Raymond Bennett; sisters Mildred Stout and Elda Wyatt; and a son-in-law, Chuck Rowland.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, August 18, 2011 at the First Baptist Church in Alden with the Rev. Bob Bethell officiating. A private family interment will preceed the service in Alden Valley Cemetery in Alden. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m.
Memorials may be made to Alden First Baptist Church or Sterling Presbyterian Manor, in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
August 16, 2011

Updated 8/12/11

JOYCE MARIE BRADY

Joyce Marie Brady, 65, died Aug. 8, 2011 at the Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. She was born Oct. 29, 1945 in Chase to Samuel W. and Stella Snook Casey. A lifetime resident of Chase, she retired from Abbott Labs in McPherson, and was a Raymond Jr. High School Cook. She was a member of the Assembly of God Church in Lyons, and the 700 Club. She married Gary Lee Brady on Oct. 14, 1962 in Lyons.
Survivors include: husband, Gary of the home; son, Garrel Brady and wife Barbie of Chase; two daughters, Robin Oberle, and husband Tony, and Shelley White all of Chase; mother Stella Casey of Ellinwood; brother, Lawrence Casey of South Hutchinson; seven sisters, Betty Collins of Lyons, Dora Holliday and Mary Brady of Chase, Elizabeth Rinehart of Okla., Karen Saunders and Sharon Stahl of Plainville, and Jeanie May of Oberlin; nine grandchildren, Josh, Ben, and Zack Oberle, Kelsie, Amanda and Haley White, Ashton and Garrett Brady, and Jasmin Savage.
Joyce’s father, brother, Sam R. Casey, and sister, Wanda Blankenship all preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 12, 2011 at the First Baptist Church in Chase, with Pastor Charles Kirk officiating with burial following in Lyons Municipal Cemetary. Visitation was held at the Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons Thursday Aug. 11. Memorials may be made to the Center for Basic Cancer Research at KSU.
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The Lyons News,
August 12, 2011

LINDA MAE WEIDE

Linda Mae Weide, 62, died August 5, 2011 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. She was born May 28, 1949 in Wichita and was adopted by Wayne and Veta (Wick) Breedlove.
She was a former resident of Sterling. She attended Emporia State University and was a homemaker. She married Tom Weide.
She is survived by her husband, Tom, of Derby.; three step-children, J.R. Weide of Derby, Tim Weide of Douglas, and Kim Weide of Derby; and a step-brother, David Breedlove, of Wichita. She was preceeded in death by her parents.
A memorial graveside service will take place Friday, August 12 at 10 a.m. at Old Mission Cemetary, Garden of Last Supper where inurnment will take place.
Memorials have been established with the American Red Cross in her memory.
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The Lyons News,
August 12, 2011

JOHN LAURENCE (LARRY) JOHANNSEN

John Laurence (Larry) Johannsen died August 9, 2011. He was born April 30, 1937 to John F. Johannsen and Helen M. (Burke) Johannsen. He married Judy Eileen McDaniel on June 10, 1962 at Huscher.
He graduated from Little River High School in 1956. He served in the U.S. Army from 1956-1960 and was stationed in Nueburg, Germany for three years. He was a member of the Concordia American Legion Post 76 and the Moose. He was a life-long farmer and truck driver. He drove for Rainbow Bread, Bogarts, C&C truck line, Crete Carrier/HTL trucking, Koch Excavating and Abram’s Ready Mix.
Survivors include his wife of the home; son Tony Johannsen of Concordia; daughter Tammy Johnson and husband Jason of Salina; one adopted son, Ronnie Lagasse; one brother, Robert Johannsen of Saxman, and sisters, Mary of Ridgeway, Pa., Shirley J. of Topeka, Jean Marie (Roy) of Norton, Caroline Hake of Bennett, Colo., Bob and Sheri LeDuc of Clyde, Eugene McDaniel and wife Gail of Concordia; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Preceeding him in death were John Fredrick Johannsen, Helen Johannsen, Tom McDaniel, Marvel McDaniel, Jennifer LeDuc, Chad McDaniel, Ella Mae Johannsen, Edward Johannsen, Betty Johannsen, and Mary Traveny’s twin sister Mildred Jean.
Funeral services will be held Friday, August 12, 2011 at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Concordia with Pastor Tessa Zehring officiating. Visitation was held Thursday, August 11 from 1-8 p.m. Family was present from 6-8 p.m. at Nutter Mortuary. Burial will be at Rice Cemetery with military honors by V.F.W. Post 588 and American Legion Post 76, both of Concordia. Memorials may be made to Meadow Lark Hospice or North Central Kansas Down Syndrome Society.
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The Lyons News,
August 12, 2011

JEROME L.CHANDLER

Jerome L. Chandler, long-time Sterling banker, town booster and very active Sterling College supporter, died Saturday, July 23, in Tucson, Arizona. He was 80 years of age, and with his wife, Lois, had just celebrated 60 years of marriage in May.
Chandler came from a very prominent Kansas banking family, and assumed the presidency of the Farmers State Bank, and its affiliates, Farmers State Insurance Agency and the financial holding company, Coronado, Inc., in May, 1958.
He served in that capacity for 35 years, before retiring in 1993, at which time he and his wife moved to Tucson.
In 1960 he was elected chairman of the board of trustees of Sterling College, a post he held for 22 years. The college recognized his many years of service with an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.
He is survived by his wife, Lois; a daughter, Kim Silva of Danville, CA, a son, Jerome II, of Tucson; and other family members. A Celebration of Life service was held this morning in Tucson.
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The Lyons News,
August 12, 2011

LEWIS J. FRIESS

Lewis J. Friess, age 85, died August 8, 2011 at Rhode Island Suites in Ransom. He was born March 19, 1926 in Ransom, the son of Matthias and Mayme Roths Friess. He was a member of Sacred Heart Church, Ness City and the Knights of Columbus, 4th degree. He lived in Lyons working as a machine inspector for Krause Plow Corp. for 30 years, then moved to Ness City in 1985. He married Lois Goodfellow on April 18, 1953, she preceded him in death on December 8, 1977. He married Angela Gabel Stecklein on August 31, 1985. She survives.
Other survivors include 4 sons: Vince (Brenda) and Tim (Brenda), both of Great Bend; Mark of Netawaka and Brian (Linda) of Lyons; 7 brothers: Elmer, Donald, Warren, Harold, Frederick, Daniel, and Maurice; 6 sisters: Sister Janice (Bernadette) Friess, Anna Mae Ferguson, Mary Frances Flax, Rosella McLain, Janice Hornung, and Cathy Ator; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sons, Matt and John; three brothers Cletus, Bernard, and Eugene; and two sisters: Laurene Marvin and Marjorie Flax.
Funeral Service will be Saturday, August 13, 2011, 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church in Ness City, with burial following in the Lyons Cemetery at 3 p.m. Rosary at 6:30 p.m. and vigil 7 at p.m. on Friday at the church. Friends may call at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Thursday, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be given to Sacred Heart Church or Rhode Island Suites. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.
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The Lyons News,
August 12, 2011

Updated 8/9/11

ELMER (BILL) GRABER

Elmer (Bill) Graber, 87, died Friday, August 5, 2011 at Prairie Sunset Home in Pretty Prairie. He was born September 18, 1923 at Pretty Prairie, the son of Ed P. and Edna (Goering) Graber. He was a member of the First Mennonite Church in Pretty Prairie. On December 1, 1946, he married Kathern M. Graber in Pretty Prairie. She died August 13, 1989.
Survivors include: sons, Terry and wife Susan, Allen and wife Debby, Reuben and wife Brenda, and Sid and wife Gayle; daughter Julie and Russell Stephenson; daughter-in-law, Patricia Graber; sister-in-law, Evelyn Graber; 15 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his son Harley, brother Victor, and sister Helen Stucky and her husband Gilbert.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, August 13, 2011 at First Mennonite Church in Pretty Prairie. Friends may call from 1-8 p.m., Friday, August 12 at Livingston Funeral Home in Kingman, with family present from 5-7 p.m. Burial will be in the First Mennonite Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made with the Prairie Sunset Home and First Mennonite Church.
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The Lyons News,
August 9, 2011

FRANCES “CRICKET” TURNER

Frances “Cricket” Turner, 96, died August 6, 2011 at the Good Samaritan Center in Hutchinson. She was born July 17, 1915 in Snyder, Okla. to James Haney and Mabel Cooper. She was a resident of Little River since 1952, a former office manager for Rice County Health Department, CNA at Hoffman Memorial Hospital and Sandstone Heights Nursing Home, former owner of Cricket’s Café, and L.R. Telephone operator. She graduated from Snyder High School in 1933, and was a member of the Church of Christ in Lyons, Senior Center, Birthday Club, and former city council woman all of Little River.
She was married on Oct. 3, 1937 in Norman, Okla. to P. L. Turner. He died January 24, 1972. Survivors include: sons, Jim and Linda Turner of Skiatook, Okla., Joe Turner of Oklahoma City, Okla., and John and Rosie Turner of Hutchinson; daughters, Jane A. Phleger of Houston, Texas, and Janice B. Hish of Vacaville, Calif.; 10 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her sister Bess Stewart, brothers, Joe Cooper, and James Cooper, and grandson Cliff Turner. Funeral services were held Monday, August 8, 2011 at 2 p.m. at the Church of Christ in Lyons. Robert Taverner and Jimmie Keas officiated. Burial was held at the Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River. Memorials may be made to the Lyons Church of Christ, Little River Senior Center, or the Hutchinson Good Samaritan Center in care of the Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
August 9, 2011

Updated 8/2/11

LEANORA SCHMEDERMAN FRUSHONE

Leanora Schmederman Frushone, 104, died in Redlands, Calif. on July 25, 2011.
She was born in Junction City on July 5, 1907 to John Christian and Georgina Taylor Schmederman. She moved from Kanopolis to Lyons in 1917. She graduated from Lyons High School in 1926 and was the oldest living graduate of Lyons High School. Following graduation she attended nursing school at Wichita St. Joseph’s hospital.
She moved to San Bernardino in 1933, where she did post-graduate work in surgery and pediatrics. In 1937, she married Joseph Phillip Frushone. Her nursing career included 10 years as a private duty and general duty nurse and 32 years at Patton State Hospital in Highland, Calif., where she was supervisor of the operating room, supervisor of the medical surgical division and assistant director of nursing. She received her BS degree in nursing from Loma Linda University in 1957. She was active in a number of organizations including the Daughters of the American Revolution
She is survived by two nephews and three nieces, including Simon Cherpitel and Cheryl Cherpitel, originally of Lyons and now of Orinda California, her god-daughter, a step-son, and a number of great and great-great nieces and nephews.
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The Lyons News,
August 2, 2011

SHARLENE WARREN

Sharlene Warren, 65, died July 30, 2011 in Pueblo, Colo. She was born May 20, 1946 in Sterling to Norman Edward and Edythe Kopp McCaslin. She was a former resident of the Sterling, Nickerson area. Sharlene worked as a Certified Nurses Aide, and graduated from Nickerson High School in 1964. She was married to Larry Warren in Alden on August 14, 1965.
Survivors include, husband, Larry of the home; sons, James Warren of Rocky Hill, Conn., and William Warren of Virginia Beach, Va.; daughter, Debra Grebas of Pueblo, Colo.; brother, William McCaslin of Broomfield, Colo.; sister-in-laws, Judy Williams of Hutchinson, and Susan Dantus of New York City, N.Y.; and three grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, August 4, 2011 at the Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Rev. Marvin Ewertt will officiate. Burial will be held at the Sterling Community Cemetery in Sterling. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
August 2, 2011

DEIDRA DIANE (SKILES) HAGAN

Deidra Diane Skiles Hagan, 53, died Sunday, July 24 at her home in Independence, Mo. She was born October 22, 1957. the daughter of Warren D. Skiles and Connie Schoonover Skiles. She attended Sunny 4 and Bushton elementary schools. In 1969, the family moved to Ottawa where she attended jr. high. She graduated from Wellsville High School and Research Hospital Nursing School. She worked at Research Hospital, Medical Center of Independence and Bridger Middle School.
She married Mark Levi Hagan. He survives, along with three children: Claire Marie Jones and husband, Connor, Abigale Rose Hagan and Samual Levi Hagan, all of Independence, Mo.
A memorial service took place Saturday, July 30 at East Independence Community of Christ Church at 3 p.m. with visitation at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested donations to “Be the Match” Bone Marrow Registry (www.marrow.org) or Leukemia Lymphoma Society (www.lis.org).
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The Lyons News,
August 2, 2011

ROBERT L. HEMRY

Robert L. Hemry, 53, died Sunday, July 17, 2011 at at his home.
He served in the US Navy for eight years as a Aviation Rescue Swimmer, receiving a Navy “E” Ribbon, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, First Good Conduct Award and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with One Star.
Survivors include his wife, Debra K. Hemry of Enterprise, Ala.; daughters Candace Green (Phillip) of Joplin, Mo., Megan Camp of Enterprise, Ala., and Jade Conder of Kansas City; parents, Jack Marion and Iris Jr. Hemry of Lyons; sister Dianne Hemry of Geneseo; brother John Hemry (Sharrill) of Owings, Md.; two grandchildren, a niece and a nephew.
Memorial services were Saturday, July 23 at 10 a.m. at Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory Chapel with Rev. James Endrihs officiating.
Memorials may be made to: SOS Animal Shelter, 25944 Hwy. 84, Enterprise, Ala., 36330 or to: The Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, Neb., 68410.
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The Lyons News,
August 2, 2011

KATIE N. STEWART

Katie N. Stewart, 40, died July 31, 2011. She was born October 3, 1970 in Ellsworth to Lloyd and Gayla Musgrove Choitz. She was a resident of Lyons for 20 years, formerly of Ellsworth. Katie was a tax accountant, and former owner of Four Seasons Flower Shop in Lyons. She graduated from Ellsworth High School in 1989, and Hutchinson Jr. College, and received her accounting degree from Sterling College. She was a member of the St. Johns Lutheran Church in Ellinwood. Katie married John Stewart on July 13, 1991 in the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Ellsworth.
Survivors include, her husband, John, of the home; two daughters, Kiana Stewart and Ariel Stewart of the home; parents, Lloyd and Gayla Choitz of Geneseo; sister Valerie and Lance Morris of Lyons; brother and sister-in-laws Tami McCloud of Lyons, Jeff Stewart of Huntington Beach, Calif.; father-in-law Mike and Carol Stewart of Omaha, Ark.; grandparents, Charles Geering Sr. of Salina, and Jack and Cecilia Stewart of Lyons; four nephews, Braden and Kaleb Morris, and Chase and Cole Stewart; two nieces, Miranda and Morgan McCloud; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Her mother-in-law, Barb Stewart, grandmother, Winifred Geering, and grandparents, Albert and Alvera Choitz, preceded her in death. Funeral services will 10:30 a.m. Thursday, August 4, 2011 at the St. Johns Lutheran Church in Ellinwood. Pastor Jeffrey Frakes will officiate. Burial will be held at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons. Visitation will be from 2 - 7 p.m. Wednesday August 3, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons; with family present from 5-7 p.m. Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of Kansas or the Cancer Treatment Center of America in Tulsa, Okla. in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
August 2, 2011

Updated 7/29/11

ELLIANNA GRACE MITCHELL

Ellianna Grace Mitchell, four months and twelve days, went to heaven on July 14, 2011. She was born in Colorado Springs, Colo. on March 2, 2011. Ellie was celebrated on earth in the love of her parents, Hannah and Mark Mitchell; her brother, Jacob; and her sisters Baylie and Isabella, all of Colorado Springs, Colo.
Meeting her in heaven were her great-grandfathers, Roy “Jake” Ballard and Jack Williams. Grieving her on earth are her great-grandmothers, Lucy Ballard of Thousand Oaks, Calif.; Naomi Williams of Kettering, Ohio; and Joe and Marion Buchanan of Dayton, Ohio; grandparents Chris and Marci Detmer of Lyons; Steve and Madonna Mitchell of Kettering, Ohio; and Dennis Leake of Little Rock, Ark.; uncles, aunts, and cousins: Chris and Erin Leake (Lauryn, Molly, Jenna and Gloria), of Fresno, Calif.; Catherine Leake (Thomas, John and Anthony Davis) of San Bernardino, Calif.; Daniel Leake of Chatanooga, Tenn.; Benjamin Leake, Samuel Ballard and Micah Leake of Sterling.
Ellianna’s visitation and funeral were held in Colorado Springs. Her body was laid to rest at the U.S. Air Force Academy Cemetery. With her precious life she taught us bravery, beauty, strength, and perseverance in difficult times.
Memorial contributions may be made in Ellianna’s name to the March of Dimes, 421 South Tejon, Suite 311, Colorado Springs, CO 80903.
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The Lyons News,
July 29, 2011

J.D. STARNES

J.D. Starnes, 70, died July 27, 2011 at the Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. He was born November 22, 1940 in Colorado Springs, Colo., to Raymond Vernon and Mary Elizabeth Belle Simmons Starnes. He was a longtime resident of Lyons and Chase.
He graduated from Braman High School in Braman, Okla. in 1957. He retired from the U.S. Navy after serving during the Vietnam War and was the former owner of J.D.’s Bait Shop in Lyons.
He was a member of the VFW and former Liars Fishing Club, both of Lyons.
On July 25, 1964, he married Lee Ellen Hennagir in Alameda, Calif.
Survivors include his wife, Lee, of the home; his son Chaw Starnes of Lyons; his daughter Pamela Dressler of Sterling; brothers Raymond E. Starnes of New Mexico, Ted V. Starnes of Lyons, Freddy J. Starnes of Olmitz, and Eddie Starnes of Rose Hill; sisters Billie Bingham of Davenport, Iowa, Della Faye Darling of Estes Park, Colo., Corky Miller, Vista Jean Voth and Annie Belle Hale, all of Lyons; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, James Kent Starnes; a brother Jakey Starnes; and a sister, Wanda Seal.
Service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Ron DeVore officiating. Burial will be in Chase Springdale Cemetery in Chase. Memorials can be made to Children of Vietnam Veterans in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
July 29, 2011

ROBIN D. CONNERY

Robin D. Connery, 48, of Oklahoma City, was born February 9, 1963, in Lyons, to Ronald Connery and B. Kathryn White and went home to be with his wife, Kimberly Connery, on July 20, 2011.
 Robin graduated from Maize High School in 1981 and worked as a manager for Long John Silver’s in Wichita.  He served in the U.S. Army at the rank of PFC and received an honorable discharge. He was a volunteer at the VA Hospital and was a part of the VRC & MICAM teams.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Kimberly. He is survived by his parents; sisters, Kandy and Leslie; son, Sean; two grandsons; and many other family members and friends.
A memorial service will be 9 a.m., Saturday, July 30, 2011, at Memorial Park Cemetery Mausoleum Chapel.
Donations in Robin’s memory may be made to the VA, ASPCA and/or AA.
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The Lyons News,
July 29, 2011

FREDERICK (LAWRENCE) HISS

Frederick (Lawrence) Hiss, 81, died July 25, 2011 at the Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. He was born October 26, 1929 in Great Bend to Fred and Mary Janne Hiss. He was a lifetime Barton and Rice County resident.
He was a 1947 graduate of Great Bend High School. He worked at Merring’s Inc. as an appliance repairman from 1956 to 1957. He was a farmer. He served in the Korean War. He married Elinor Bryant on August 26, 1956 at Ellinwood.
He was active in Grace Lutheran Church in Lyons, serving as a Sunday school teacher, Sunday school superintendent, financial secretary, in the choir and as an elder. He was a member of St. John’s Luteran Church in Ellinwood and was in Lutheran Laymen’s League serving on local, zone and state boards including LLL-LWML Family Retreat for five years and as LLL reporter. He was electricity project leader for Fairplay 4-H and Electricity Superintendent for the Rice County 4-H Fair. He was a member of the Holyrood American Legion, 320 Hines-Grossman, Ellinwood in 2004; Veterans of Foreign War of Lyons and Ellinwood; President of the Rice County Farm Bureau and served on the Board for the Rice County Pork Producers; Board of Directors of the Bushton Grain Coop from 1983-1989; Ellinwood Historical Society; Barton County Histrocial Society; Retired Senior Volunteer program and men’s prayer breakfast.
Survivors include his wife, Elinor, of the home; one son, Richard Lee and wife Sharon Hiss of Great Bend; one daughter, DeAnn Marie and husband Alan Hauser of Humboldt; one brother, Loren Hiss of Great Bend; two sisters, Verna Hewitt of Ellinwood and Marilyn Button of Great Bend; three granddaughters and one great-grandson. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Bryan Hiss, and a brother, Edwin Hiss.
Service was Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 10 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Ellinwood with Rev. Jeff Frakes officiating. Visitation was 12 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 27, with family receiving friends form 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial was in Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. Memorials may be given to the St. John’s Lutheran Church or to the Ellinwood Fire/Ambulance Department in care of Kimple Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
July 29, 2011

Updated 7/26/11

KEITH EDWARD BOXLER

Keith Edward Boxler, 40, of Shawnee, passed away July 18, 2011 comfortably in his home. Keith fought a long and courageous battle with brain cancer. Keith was born August 5, 1970, to Wayne and Karen Boxler, in Lyons.
A Memorial and Celebration of Life took place at the Midland Theater, 1228 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. from 4 - 7:30 p.m., Monday, July 25, with the memorial service at 5 p.m. All friends and family are welcome. Keith wanted this to be a “celebration” of his life and wanted everyone to visit and remember the good times.
Keith is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of almost 18 years, Tracy Karnes-Boxler; and their two children, Evan Boxler (14) and Brooke Boxler (13); his parents, Karen and Wayne Boxler, of Mesa, Ariz.; two brothers, Len Boxler and family (Mary Liz, Daniel & Zakary), of Overland Park, Steve Boxler and family (Nancy and Lia), of Anchorage, Alaska; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws and wonderful friends whom loved him very much.
Keith worked many years in the restaurant business, most recently as General Manager for California Pizza Kitchen on the Plaza. He had a true love of life and all those around him. He enjoyed getting together with friends and family as well as going to movies and keeping busy around the house. His very charming smile and jovial personality will surely be missed. Keith always said “it is what it is” and lived his life to its fullest without regrets. We miss you already Keith! In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest memorial contributions to the the organizations that have impacted their lives. Donations can be made on-line to: www.beheadstrong.org (local brain tumor survivor organization), www.ovhf.org (Odyssey Hospice), and www.caringbridge.org/visit/keithboxler (the site hosting Keith’s blog). Arrangements were made by Signature Funerals, 8019 State Line Rd., Kansas City, Mo., 64114; (816)214-5174, www.signaturefunerals.com.
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The Lyons News,
July 26, 2011

LARRY LEE LOUTZENHISER

Larry Lee Loutzenhiser, 64, died July 23, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson. He was born January 30, 1947 in Lyons, the son of Robert Ansel Loutzenhiser and Virginia Poland Hendrickson.
He was a 1966 graduate of Little River High School. He was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed bowling and was a Hutchinson Community College Basketball season ticket holder for many years. He belonged to Tenth Avenue United Methodist Church. In 2002, after 27 years, he retired from Dillon’s Bakery sanitation department.
On December 7, 1974, he married Penny Luellen Flanders in Hutchinson. She survives. Other survivors include a brother, Robert Lynn Loutzenhiser and Carolyn of Hutchinson; a niece, Lynette Casey of Hutchinson; a nephew, Bryan Loutzenhiser of Hutchinson; brother-in-law Wayne Flanders and wife Linda of Ulysses and his faithful dog, “Midnight.”
He was preceded in death by an infant brother, Logan.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 27 at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home and Crematory Chapel of Hutchinson. Interment will be in Lyons Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. with family to receive friends Tuesday from 6 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials go to Hutchinson Animal Shelter or American Diabetes Association, in care of the funeral home.
Please visit www.penwellgabelhutchinson.com to leave personal condolences for the family.
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The Lyons News,
July 26, 2011

LAWRENCE HISS

Lawrence Hiss died July 25, 2011 at Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. Services are pending at Kimple Funeral Home in Ellinwood.
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The Lyons News,
July 26, 2011

Updated 7/15/11

MARGARET E. LIPP

Margaret E. Lipp, 84, died July 11, 2011 at the Sterling Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was born June 1, 1927 in Alden to Harry E. and Rubye Muir Ward. Margaret was a lifetime Alden resident, and retired as a teacher for the Quivira Heights School District in Holyrood. She graduated from Alden High School in 1945 and received her Bachelors in Education from Sterling College in 1949. Margaret was a member of the Alden United Methodist Church, NEA, AARP, KEA, Sweet Adalines and Red Hats. She married Chester Mervyn Lipp August 1, 1950 in the Alden Methodist Church. He died January 14, 2002.
Survivors include: a daughter, Lesa and husband Jim Dechant of Brush, Colo., two grandchildren, A.J. and Jamie Dechant of the home. A son, David Lipp, preceded her in death. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday July 16, 2011 at the Alden Methodist Church with Rev. Bill Stapleton officiating. Burial will follow at the Alden Valley Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Alden United Methodist Church in care of the Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
July 15, 2011

Updated 7/12/11

ALEXIS NICHOLE MARTIN

Alexis Nicole Martin died July 5, 2011 in Hutchinson. She was born April 16, 2011 to Chelsey and Patrick Martin Jr.
Survivors include her parents; brother, Cameron Stevens.
Funeral was at 1 p.m. Monday, July 11, 2011 at Elliott Chapel with Pastor Rick Goertzen officiating. Burial was in Fairlawn Burial Park. Visitation was 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday with the family present from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the mortuary. Memorials to the Alexis Martin Memorial Fund in care of the mortuary. Please visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave condolences for Lexi’s family.
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The Lyons News,
July 12, 2011

MADELON JEAN TIDWELL

Madelon Jean Tidwell, 86, died July 9, 2011 at the Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. She was born March 12, 1925 in Kanopolis to Dick and Marjorie Benjamin Tidwell. She was a resident of Little River since 1996 formerly of Dallas, Texas. She was a dancer and music teacher, member of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, and Altar Society, both in Little River.
Survivors include one brother, Bill and wife Lois Tidwell of Freeport, Texas. A Parish Rosary was held at 12:30 p.m., and Funeral Mass followed at 1 p.m. Monday July 11, 2011 at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Little River. Father Edmond Kline officiated. Burial was at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons. Memorials may be made to the Madelon Tidwell Memorial Fund in care of the Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
July 12, 2011

HELEN JEAN SKILES BRONLEEWE

Helen Jean Skiles Bronleewe, resident of Wesley Towers in Hutchinson, died July 10, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born February 20, 1923 at Hutchinson to Samuel Porter Skiles and Alva Heitmann Skiles. She married Robert H. Bronleewe on June 6, 1946 at First Baptist Church in Frederick.
She is survived by her husband Robert, two sons Tom (Beverly) and Ted (Barbara), six grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren.
Helen was a church organist and pianist for over 50 years. She taught bible classes for many years to both children and adults.
They retired to Lyons. The couple were residents of Wesley Towers in Hutchinson at the time of her death.
Funeral service will be Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Lyons, with Pastor Joel Grizzle and Chaplain Jeanine Rishel of Wesley Towers officiating. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until service time on Wednesday at the church. Internment will be at Frederick Cemetery following the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Country Side Baptist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
July 12, 2011

JUANITA CARSON

Juanita Carson, 83, died July 10, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born August 21, 1927 in Sterling to Earl and Clara Elizabeth Pentico Elstun. She was a lifetime resident of Sterling. She was a licensed practical nurse. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Sterling and member of the former First Baptist Church of Sterling, Rebekah and Silver Threads, all of Sterling.
She was preceeded in death by spouses Ike Estabrook and B. Carson. Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Friday, July 15, 2011 at Sterling Community Cemetery with Rev. Marvin Ewertt officiating. Burial will be in Sterling Community Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Presbyterian Manor in Sterling, in care of Birzer Funeral Home of Sterling.
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The Lyons News,
July 12, 2011

MARGARET E. LIPP

Margaret E. Lipp, 84, died July 11, 2011 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. Funeral arrangements will be announced by Birzer Funeral Home of Sterling.
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The Lyons News,
July 12, 2011

Updated 7/8/11

ETTA “JANE” AKINGS

Etta “Jane” Akings, 84, died June 28, 2011 at Cherry Village Nursing Home in Great Bend. She was born Aug. 9, 1926 to John Oliver and Julia Ava Anthony in Barnsdall, Okla. Jane married Landon Fletcher Akings on July 29, 1944. He preceded her in death. She was a resident of Great Bend since 2003, coming from Olathe. She and Landon owned the Oxford Place Steak House in Olathe for 30 years. She was also a cook for the Galatia school district from 1955 to 1964.
Survivors include one son, Dean Akings and wife Lillian of Great Bend; three daughters, Shirley Foust and husband Larry of Hutchinson, Diane Aelmore and husband Larry of Olathe, and Betty Quinn of Olathe; one brother, John Anthony of Hennessy, Okla.; one sister, Colene Mallams of Bixby, Okla.; 13 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Leslie Anthony, Herbert Anthony, and Lyle Anthony; and one sister Valta Borrer.
Services are pending with Penwell-Gable Funeral Home in Olathe Chapel. Bryant Funeral Home in Great Bend is in charge of local arrangements.
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The Lyons News,
July 8, 2011

W.E. “TONY” SALLEE

W.E. “Tony” Sallee, 74, died June 30, 2011 at home in McPherson. He was born June 11, 1937 to James Earl and Esther Marie (Lasiter) Sallee in Percell, Mo. He was a member of the Kings Hiway Baptist Church, where he was a trustee and head usher. He worked for Shairkmere Beauty Salon in Wichita and owned and operated Coiffures By Tony in McPherson. He started the business in 1966.
Surviving family members include one brother Charles “Chuck” Anthony Sallee and wife Tammy of Hutchinson; sister-in-law Karen Bowles and husband Tony of McPherson, brother-in-law Robert Elkins of Moundridge.
His parents, two brothers, Jimmy Ray and Orville Sallee, one sister Joyce Shuttleworth, and a nephew, John Earl Sallee, preceded him in death. Funeral services were at Kings Hiway Baptist Church in McPherson at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 6 with Pastor Greg Renz officiating. Inurnment of cremated remains will be in McPherson Cemetery Mausoleum Building in McPherson at a later date. Memorial Contributions may be given to Kings Hiway Baptist Church and can be sent in care of the Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 West Euclid Street, McPherson, KS 67460.
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The Lyons News,
July 8, 2011

ROBERT J. (BOB) CYPHERT

Robert J. (Bob) Cyphert, 77, passed away on July 2 in Greeley, Colo. Cyphert was raised in Geneseo and graduated from Geneseo HIgh School. He is survived by a son, Cody Cyphert of Greeley, and daughter Rhonda Lerher of Bristow, Va.
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The Lyons News,
July 8, 2011

JAMES R. “JIM” LATTIMER

James R. “Jim” Lattimer, 86, died July 3, 2011 at Halstead Health and Rehab in Halstead, Ks. He was born June 29, 1925 in Lyons, the son of W.E. “Wally” and Viola Gould Lattimer. On February 12, 1977 he married Debbie Louise Cummings at St. Matthews Episcopal Church in Newton. She survives of the home.
He was a Marine who served during WWII, serving in the Pacific Theatre including, Iwo Jima. He retired from the Fleming Company in Wichita. He was a lifetime farmer.
He is survived by children James (Nichole) Lattimer of Manhattan and Rebecca Lattimer of Lyons; four grandchildren, two great grandchildren and sister Marian Starks of Palm Bay, Fla. He is preceded in death by a daughter, Jamie Fox; his parents; brothers Warren, Robert, Max, and Hubert Lattimer; sisters Velma Heiligman, Eulela Ulrich and Faye Dressel.
Family graveside service will be today, Friday, July 8, 2011 at 10 a.m. at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons. Memorial service will be at 2 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Newton with the Reverend’s Mary Siegmund and Bob Layne. Memorials may be made to Halstead Health and Rehabilitation or Harry Hynes Hospice in care of Petersen Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
July 8, 2011

JOHN L. “JACK” LINK

John L. “Jack” Link, 74, died July 5, 2011 in Barton County. He was born June 20, 1937 at Chase to Eugene M. and Frances Elizabeth (Robinson) Link. Jack married Joyce Beydler Jan. 17, 1965 in Lyons. He was a master mechanic, working for Rosenberg Engine Service, Petroleum, Inc., and Straub International, where he retired. Following his retirement, he continued working on the farm and doing mechanic work.
Jack was a 1956 graduate of Chase High School, and a Pawnee Rock resident since 1976, formerly of Chase and Great Bend. He was a member of Pawnee Rock Christian Church, Lions Club, former Pawnee Rock City Council member, Pawnee Rock and Chase Volunteer Fire Department, Barton County Rescue Team (CERT), and Christian Motorcycle Association. He was mayor of Pawnee Rock for ten years, and served as a reserve deputy sheriff.
Survivors include: wife, Joyce Link of the home; one son, Victor J. Link and wife Yvonne of Great Bend; two brothers Ronald Link of Cushing, Okla., and Howard Link and wife Jeannie of Chase; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. One infant brother, Victor Link, preceded him in death.
Funeral services will be Saturday, July 9, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. at the Pawnee Rock Christian Church in Pawnee Rock. Pastor John Thomas and Pastor Don Paden will officiate. Interment will be held at the Pawnee Rock Cemetery in Pawnee Rock. Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the family receiving friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 8, 2011 at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or Christian Motorcycle Association, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.
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The Lyons News,
July 8, 2011

Updated 7/1/11

PAULINE RUTH “POLLY” FRIEDLEY

Pauline Ruth “Polly” Friedley, 87, died Monday, June 27, 2011 at home in McPherson. She was born Dec. 11, 1923 to Arthur and Bertha R. (Dutton) Colberg in Lorraine. Pauline attended the Lorraine schools, graduating from Lorraine High School, and then attended Bethany Nazarene College in Bethany Okla. She was a member of Countryside Covenant Church of McPherson. Through the years as a member of several churches, she served as choir director, vocalist, and on various committees. She was a homemaker, secretary, and bookkeeper for her husband in his dental practice.
She married C. Richard Friedley on June 8, 1949 at Chase. They lived in McPherson until 1952 when the family moved to Lyons. They lived in Lyons until 1955 when they moved to Raytown, Mo. In 1990, they moved back to McPherson.
Surviving family members include, her husband of over sixty-two years, C. Richard Friedley of McPherson; daughters, Joy Boldt of Olathe, Pat Boldt and husband Rick of Galva; son-in-law, Rev. Timothy Oglesby and wife Jackie of Buhler; brother Roger Colberg and wife Evangeline of Lyons; 11 grandchildren; three step grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
Her parents, a daughter, Connie Kay Oglesby, sister, Corene Crill, and brother Jack Colberg preceded her in death.
Friends were invited to call Thursday, June 30, 2011 at the Countryside Covenant Church in McPherson. Memorial services will be held at Countryside Covenant Church in McPherson today Friday, July 1 at 11 a.m. with Reverend Jon Black and Reverend Timothy Oglesby officiating. Private family graveside service will be in the McPherson Cemetery in McPherson. Memorials contributions may be made to Countryside Covenant Church or Hospice and Homecare of Reno County-McPherson in care of the Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 West Euclid Street, McPherson, KS 67460.
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The Lyons News,
July 1, 2011

LEON B. “PETIE” LINK

Leon B. “Petie” Link, 84, died June 27, 2011 at the Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. He was born Feb. 10, 1927 in Rural Chase to Fred and Marquerite Maes Link. A lifetime Chase resident, he was a retired Esfeld Engineering employee, Chase Co-Op feed mill operator, and truck driver for Kopfman Trucking. He was a veteran in the U.S. Navy, serving during WWII, and a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Lyons, former K of C, VFW in Lyons, and 2011 Grand Marshall of the Chase Festival.
He married his wife of 60 years, Betty Webb Aug. 13, 1951 in Iola, she survives. Other survivors include sons, Michael Link and Marietta of Ellinwood, and Glenn Link and Vivian of Chase; daughters, Deb Ledford, Karen Martinez and Raul, and Lisa Dumas and Randy, all of Lyons; grandchildren, Jeff and Jamie Link of Raymond, Laci Link and Demetrius Gaines of Lyons, Tanner Ledford of Wichita, Jennifer, Jarrod, Justin, and Josh Williams, all of Great Bend, Shane and Chelsea Link of Great Bend, Taz Link of Ellinwood, Temple and Rachel Link of Chase, Laynee and James Kempke of Wichita, Randy and Tara Habiger of Lawrence, Elizabeth and Marshall Christmann, Anthony Martinez, Shawnee Martinez and Marc Christmann, Coleen and Jeremiah Martinez, Jamie and John Griffitt, all of Lyons, and Darus Dumas and Jamie Pearsall of Wichita; 27 great-grandchildren; brother, Eddie Link of Missouri; sisters, Arlene Dahl of Wichita, Nadine Milsap of Wichita, Patty Lewis of Rose Hill, and Elaine Bynum of Wichita; and many nieces and nephews.
His parents, brothers, Don Link and Melvin Link and two grandchildren preceded him in death. Funeral Mass was 2 p.m. Thursday, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Lyons, Father Robert Spencer officiated. Burial was at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Chase with military honors by the U.S. Navy. Visitation, and Parish Rosary were held Wednesday at the Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials may be made to the Chase First Responders or the Rice County EMS.
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The Lyons News,
July 1, 2011

MILDRED LUCY SPEARS

Mildred Lucy Spears, 75, died June 30, 2011 at Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. She was born November 30, 1935 in Wilson to Winslow and Ruby Selenka Janda Sr. She was a longtime resident of Lyons. She was a homemaker, former employee of Stop and Shop and ran a cleaning service. She graduated from Wilson High School in 1953. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Wilson, VFW Auxiliary of Ellsworth and the American Legion Auxiliary of Lyons.
She married Roy L. Spears Sr. on August 25, 1954 in Ellsworth.
Survivors include her husband, Roy, of the home, two sons, Roy Lee Spears Jr. and Rodney Spears, both of Lyons; two daughters, Colleen Hunt of Kingwood, Texas and Christine Halbert of Lyons; two brothers, Edward Janda of Lyons and Winslow Janda Jr. of Wilson; sister Lucy Vopat of Wilson; 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was preceeded in death by her parents and a granddaughter, Sara Halbert.
Funeral service will be Tuesday, July 5, 2011 at First Baptist Church of Lyons with the Rev. Joel Grizzle officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, July 3 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials may be made to Lyons First Baptist Church, in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News,
July 1, 2011

Updated 6/28/11

LEON B. LINK

Leon B. Link, 84, died Monday, June 27 at Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. He was a resident of Chase. Funeral arrangements will be announced by Birzer Funeral Home of Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
June 28, 2011

SHIRLEY EVELYN
SUTTON SCHMIDT

Shirley Evelyn Sutton Schmidt, 91, died June 26, 2011 at the Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. She was born Oct.10, 1919 in Hudson to Lesley Edmon and Mettie Derr Sutton. She was a Chase resident since 1938, formerly of Great Bend. She was a retired cook for the Rice County District Hospital, and a member of the Community Presbyterian Church, United Presbyterian Women, Eastern Star, Chase Senior Center, and Thrift Shop Volunteer. She was married to Edward “Ed” Carl Schmidt on July 6, 1938 in Great Bend, he died Nov. 7, 2001.
She is survived by two sons, Curtis N. Schmidt of Pratt, Douglas E. and Michelle Schmidt of Holcomb; three daughters, Margaret and Byron Snyder of Newton, Debby and Larry Steffan, and Denice and James Sledd Jr., both of Chase; son-in-law Jerry Kassin of Leawood, and 27 grandchildren, and 32 great-grandchildren.
Her parents, daughter Martha “Marty” Kassin, two brothers, Ernest “Pete” Sutton, and infant Virgil Sutton preceded her in death. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 30, 2011 at the Community Presbyterian Church in Chase. Revs. Jesse and Arlene Patrick, and Lay Minister Byron Snyder will officiate. Burial will be at Lakin Comanche Cemetery in Ellinwood. Memorials may be made to the Community Presbyterian Church, Chase Senior Center, or Hospice Care of Kansas in care of the Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
June 28, 2011

DAVID ANTHONY POWELL

David Anthony Powell, 54, died June 16, 2011 at home in Hoisington. He was born August 27, 1956 to Cyrus Eugene and Eulalia (Garza) Powell. He married Karen Van Wey September 16, 1977 at Red Cloud, Neb. He worked for Allen Drilling, Doonan GMC, Peterbilt, and Wal-Mart. He was a Hoisington resident, hobbiest, pet lover, and liked gardening.
Survivors are, wife, Karen Powell of Smith Center; mother, Eulalia Powell of Lyons; one son, Jerad Powell and wife Brashel of Great Bend; two sisters, Joyce Sheridan and husband Jim of Mart, Texas, and Shirley Chitwood and husband Carl of Arizona City, Ariz.; three brothers, Jess Higgins and wife Kay of Lyons, Donny Higgins and wife Sharon of Omaha, Neb., and Paul Powell of Newton, and one grandchild, Kambree Powell. He was preceded in death by his father, Cyrus Powell, stepfather, Jess Higgins, and brother, Bobby Higgins.
Memorial Services were held Monday, June 27, 2011 at 10 a.m. at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, Rev. Don Fisher officiated. There was no visitation; cremation had taken place. Memorials may be made to the David Powell Expense Fund in care of the Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.nicholsonrickefh.net.
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The Lyons News,
June 28, 2011

Updated 6/24/11

ESTHER MARIE CUMMINGS

Esther Marie Cummings, 92, died Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at Eureka Nursing Center in Eureka. She was born on May 19, 1919 in Eureka, the daughter of Marley A. and Mable (Elliott) Gibson. She was raised in the Eureka area and Hallet country school. She graduated from Climax High School with the class of 1937. After schooling she worked as a housekeeper. She was married Charles O. Cummings on April 10, 1940 in Eureka. Esther lived most of her life within 40 miles of Eureka. She was a member of the Toronto United Methodist Church, a former 4-H leader, and founder of the Fancy Mustangs 4-H.
She is survived by one son, Robert O. Cummings of Fulton, Texas; two daughters, Betty Fuller of Lyons, and Patricia Coon of Eureka; seven grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Her parents, husband, one daughter, Donna Sue Cummings, one granddaughter, Debbie Knudsen, and two brothers preceded her in death.
Funeral services will be Friday, June 24, 2011 at 2:30 p.m. at the Koup Family Funeral Home in Eureka with Pastor Kevin Lawrence of the Toronto United Methodist Church officiating. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation hours were Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials be made to Amedisys Hospice, Eureka Nursing Center, or to the Toronto United Methodist Church. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home at P.O. Box 595, Eureka, KS 67045.
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The Lyons News
June 24, 2011

DENNIS JOHN COLE

Dennis John Cole, 50, died June 21, 2011 at his residence in Sterling. He was born December 21, 1960 in Hutchinson to Kenneth Wayne and Nancy Faye Shook Cole. He graduated from Central Christian High School in Hutchinson and was a resident of Sterling for four years, formerly of Hutchinson. He was a former grain elevator manager. He was a member of Westside Baptist Church of Hutchinson.
Dennis married Julie Ann Clark on August 25, 1990 in Hutchinson. Survivors include: his wife, Julie, of the home; daughters, Rhonda Swank of Hutchinson, Katie Hilpipre of Iowa Falls, Iowa, and Sherrylynn Cole of Sterling; one son Joseph Cole of Birmingham, Ala.; four grandchildren; father Kenneth W. Cole of Mt. Vernon, Wash.; two sisters, Nancy Grissom of North Carolina and Cherry Kennedy of San Antonio, Texas.
His mother, sister, Marlena Cole, and infant brother, Samuel Cole, preceded him in death. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 27, at the Westside Baptist Church in Hutchinson. Pastor Tim Adrian will officiate the service. Memorials may be sent to the Westside Baptist Church, in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
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The Lyons News,
June 24, 2011

Updated 6/21/11

DORIS MAY McCULLAH FAIR

Doris May McCullah Fair, 91, died June 13, 2011, in Federal Way, Washington. She was born February 7, 1920 in Mariposa County California to John D. and Mary G. Swope McCullah. She married Harry Eugene (Gene) Fair on August 23, 1941, near Alden, KS. He died November 14, 1973. Doris was a longtime resident of Alden, KS working as a homemaker and helper on the family farm. She was a member of the Black Masque Honorary, and then graduated from Kansas State University in 1973 with a degree in social work. She was employed by Meals on Wheels in Wichita, then moved and worked in the Seattle Washington area. Upon retirement she traveled and read extensively, and enjoyed hobbies of photography and doll-making.
Survivors include two daughters: Jean and Dennis Dody of Federal Way, Washington, and Nancy and Ron Ricker of Raymond, Kansas; five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Steven A. Fair, her parents, and five brothers: Jack W., Melvin W., Glenn A., Bob L., and Duke D. McCullah.
Memorial Service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 25, at the Alden Baptist Church, with Reverend Bob Bethell officiating. Private burial in Alden Baptist Church or charity of choice in care of the funeral home are suggested in lieu of flowers.

JOSEPH M. HICKEL

Joseph M. Hickel, 81, died June 20, 2011 at Ellinwood District Hospital. Survivors and arrangements will be announced by Kimple Funeral Home of Ellinwood.

Updated 6/17/11

JENNIFER R. TIMMERMEYER-HECKEL

Jennifer R. Timmermeyer-Heckel, 27, of Hutchinson died June 14, 2011 in her home in Hutchinson. She was born July 25, 1983 in Wichita, the daughter of Marc & Carol Oster Timmermeyer. She grew up in Wichita and graduated in 2001 from Wichita Heights High School and later received her Accounting degree from Wichita State University in 2008. She was a group leader in the Human Resources Dept. at Kroger Corporate Offices in Hutchinson. Jennifer was a member of the Church of The Holy Cross.
She was devoted to her 2 boys, Brian and Tanner.
Jennifer married Brian Heckel on Sept.5, 2009 in Wichita. He survives. Other survivors include a son, Tanner Heckel, of the home; a brother, Brent Timmermeyer; a sister, Barbara Wyss; her parents; and her grandmother, Mary Timmermeyer, all of Wichita; her mother-in-law, Cathy Spears, Lyons; her father-in-law, Robert Heckel, Hutchinson; her sister-in-law, Terri Heckel, Overland Park; 3 nieces and 1 nephew.
Mass Of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 a.m., June 20 at the Church of The Holy Cross with Fr. Joseph Eckberg presiding. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery. A rosary will be recited at 3:30 p.m., Sunday, followed the family greeting friends from 4 to 6 p.m., all at Elliott Mortuary in Hutchinson. Public visitation at the funeral home will be Saturday, 1 to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be sent to the Jenny Heckel Memorial Fund, a fund set up at First National Bank, and sent to Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, Ks. 67501.
Friends may visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave the family a condolence.

HAROLD DEAN ROBINSON

Harold Dean Robinson, 80, died Tuesday, June 14, 2011, at St. Francis Via Christi Medical Center in Wichita.
He was born on September 20, 1930, in Ulysses, to C. Otis and Ruby C. (Fouts) Robinson. He grew up on a farm and attended school at Belpre-Truesdell. He entered the United States Coast Guard on April 23, 1951, serving during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged on April 22, 1954. Following his discharge, he returned to Kansas and married Eileen Couchman in Garfield, in November of 1954. He is formerly of Larned and Lyons. He worked for the Northern Natural Gas Company. In 1970 he moved to Blackwell, Okla., where he assumed the position of city utilities manager. In June of 1978 he began working for Kay Electric Cooperative where he worked in the warehouse as a meter loop operator. He retired in January of 1996. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church.
He is survived by two daughters, Sheri Johannsen of Lyons and Karen Little of Wichita; a son, Galen Robinson and wife Carrie of Derby; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Eileen Gifford.
Services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Friday, June 17 in the Roberts and Son Funeral Home Chapel in Blackwell with Dr. Paul Wilke of Woodlawn United Methodist Church in Derby, officiating. Burial will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday in the Hillcrest Cemetery in Derby.
A memorial has been established in his honor with the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society in c/o Roberts and Son Funeral Home, 120 W. Padon, Blackwell, OK, 74631.
On-line condolences can be made at www.robertsandsonfh.com.

STELLA MAE CAPPS PROSE

Stella Mae Capps Prose, 76, died June 13, 2011 at Pierce City, Mo. She was born June 29, 1934 to Elmer and Panzy Mae Sells Johnson in Wentworth Mo. She was a longtime Lyons and Little River resident, formerly of Pittsburg.
She was a news carrier for the Hutchinson News and the Lyons Daily News. She also worked at the Little River Cafe. She was a member of Victory Church in Chase.
She married Robert L. Capps in Tahlequah, Okla. on February 16, 1959. He died January 3, 1991.
Survivors include: two sons, Robert Capps Jr. of Wichita and Bruce A. Capps of Pierce City, Mo.; two daughters, Betty Jean Smith of Phoenix, Ariz. and Shirley Hoffman of Lyons; four brothers, Everett Johnson of Hutchinson, Charles Johnson of Oklahoma, Johnny Johnson of Pittsburg and Cecil Johnson of Arkansas; and 9 grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by longtime companion Alvin Prose, who died April 10, 1998; brothers Tommy Johnson and Bob Johnson; and a sister, Betty Jo Johnson.
Funeral Service will be at 2 p.m., Saturday, June 18, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Pastor Larry Weatherman will officiate. Burial will follow at Lyons Municipal Cemetery.

Updated 6/7/11

DANIEL H. STOCKSTILL

Daniel H. Stockstill, 64, died June 4, 2011 at Memorial Hospital in Abeline after a long heart-wrenching battle with Alzheimer’s. He was born October 26, 1946 in Ponca City, Okla., the son of Wm. Stanley and Mary Bernadine Tunnell Stockstill. He grew up in Geneseo and moved back in 2002.
He was a retired school superintendent and principal serving schools on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona, Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, Smith County school district in Smith Center from 1976 to 1991 and the Jackson Heights school district in northern Jackson County from 1991 to 2002.
He graduated from Geneseo High School in 1964 and McPherson College in 1968. He received his Masters degree from Black Hills State College in Spearfish, S.D. He attended Doctorial School at Kansas State University from 1992 to 1995.
He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Smith Center, Due Process Officer for Special Education and various teacher organizations. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and a lifelong Oklahoma Sooner fan.
On February 10, 1968, he married Susan Alexander in Geneseo.
Survivors include his wife, Susan, of the home; son Bill and Brittany Stockstill of Grand Junction, Colo.; two daughters, Angela and Mark Keller of Wichita, and Kimberly and Kelly Kennedy of Soldier; father and step-mother, Wm. Stanley and Helen Stockstill of Lyons; brother Daryl and Kathy Stockstill of Columbia, Mo.; seven grandchildren, Brady and Slade Keller; Joseph, John and Joel Kennedy; Stella and Payton Stockstill; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at United Methodist Church in Geneseo with the Rev. Ticia Bennett officiating. There will be a private family burial at Geneseo Cemetery at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
June 7, 2011

Updated 6/3/11

EVELYN I. LININGER

Evelyn I. Lininger, 86, died May 26, 2011, at Thorne Care Center, Wesley Towers, Hutchinson. She was born March 14, 1925, in Pratt, Ks, the daughter of Ferman L. and Hulga M. Baker Young. Evelyn attended grade school in Byers, KS and then high school in Elk Falls, KS, she graduated from Lyons High School in 1943. She then worked for Hutchinson National Bank and later as a secretary for Eaton Corp. for 23 ½ years, retiring in 1990. She was a former treasurer of the Prosperity Sharing Sisters Club.
On January 20, 1947, she married Stanley Lininger in Lyons, Kansas. He died April 27, 1988.
Survivors include nieces; Sandra K. Lyon and husband Troy of Doniphan, NE, Patricia A. McAllister of Grand Island, NE; LaVone Lininger and Shirleann Wagoner and husband Martin all of Clarinda, IA; three nephews, Roger Lininger of California, Gary Lininger and wife Margaret and Galen Lininger all of New Market, IA.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and a brother Kenneth Young. Funeral service was at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 31st, 2011, at Elliott Chapel. Burial followed in Fairlawn Burial Park.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Good Samaritan Fund at Wesley Towers in care of Elliott Mortuary.
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The Lyons News,
June 3, 2011

SARA ANN RIFFEL AMES

Sara Ann Riffel Ames, 93, died June 1, 2011 at Good Samaritan Center in Lyons. She was born December 12, 1917 in WaKeeney to Jacob and Mary Hanhardt Riffel. She moved to Ellinwood in 1956, from the family farm and resided there for 55 years. She was a farm wife and licensed practical nurse. She graduated High School and attended Fort Hays College. She transferred to St. Rose Nurses Training in Great Bend where she received her Practical Nurses License. She was a member of United Methodist Church in Ellinwood. She was a member of the Bridge Group and Sunflower Polka Club both of Great Bend. She married Wilbur Russell Ames II on May 18, 1939 in Larned. He proceded her in death on August 8, 1982.
Survivors include: three sons, Wilbur “Bill” Russell and Gayle Ames, Kansas City; John Leland Ames and David Charles Ames, both of Ellinwood; daughter, Karolyn Sue & John Bellamy, Escondido, California; special friends, Frank Roesler & Vicki Morris; five grandchildren, nine great grandchildren two step grandchildren and six step great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers and two sisters.
Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, June 6, 2011 at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Reverend Robert Friesen will officiate. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, June 5, 2011 and 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. Monday at Birzer Funeral Home. Memorials may be made in lieu of flowers Ellinwood United Methodist Church or Ellinwood Emergency Medical Service in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
June 3, 2011

JAMES NORVAL “BUSTER” WHITE

James Norval “Buster” White, 74, died May 30, 2011 in his residence in Lyons. He was born November 13, 1936 in Benton to Jess M. and Mary R. Cochran White. He was a long time Lyons resident. He was a maintenance man and a U.S. Army Veteran. He was married December 11, 1964 in Augusta to Sandra F. Denton. She preceded him in death on November 27, 1999.
Survivors include: two sons, Jim Headrick, Mike Headrick; three daughters, Michelle, Becky, Teresa; three sisters, Phyllis Cantrell, Marlene McDaniels both of Lewistown, Montana; Charlotte Campbell, California.
Cremation has taken place and a family memorial service at a later date in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons.
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The Lyons News,
June 3, 2011

Updated 5/27/11

LEE  DANYLUK

Lee Danyluk, 80, died May 23rd, 2011 at home after a long battle with cancer.  He was born August 7th, 1930 in Detroit, Michigan to Michael and Margaret Thomas Danyluk.
While serving in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, he met the love of his life, Janet Grant. They married June 1st, 1952, settled in Kansas in 1962 to raise a family and continue his 30 year career as a teacher, administrator, and golf coach for USD 405 Lyons. Lee earned his Bachelor of Science at McPherson College and his Masters at Ft. Hays State.
Lee was a member of the United Methodist Church in Lyons and a member of the Kansas Golf Association.  He is survived by his wife, Janet of the home; sons, Kent Danyluk, Sterling, Kelly Danyluk, Hutchinson; daughters, Kate Danyluk, Anchorage, Alaska, Kerri Danyluk, Sterling; half-brothers, Chuck Harter, Brian Harter, and Jeff Harter, all of McPherson; half-sister, Cherryl Harter, McPherson; grandchildren, Danielle Sauer, Denver, Elliott Larsen and Avery Larsen, Anchorage, Alaska, Parker Danyluk and Pryce Danyluk, Hutchinson.
Lee realized personal success as a golfer by becoming one of the top local amateurs in Central Kansas by winning many invitationals multiple times.  He achieved 13 holes-in-one with each of his children witnessing at least one.  Known by his students and players as Mr. "D", Lee was able to pass his skill and knowledge of the game on to his players and the many individuals he worked with throughout his lifetime.  Lee's compassion for teaching and golf created bonds that continue today.  Because of this passion the family asks that Memorials go to the Lyons Junior Golf Program in care of Birzer Funeral Home. 
To honor the long standing "Noon Group" tee time at the Lyons Town and Country Club, Memorial services will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 28th, 2011, at the United Methodist Church in Lyons with Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennitt officiating.  Visitation will be held at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons, Friday, May 27 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. with family present 5 to 7 p.m.
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The Lyons News,
May 27, 2011

Updated 5/24/11

BONNIE L. CROSBY

Bonnie L. Crosby, 78, died May 21, 2011 at the Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. She was born April 20, 1933 in Lincoln to Clifford and Stella Holman Howard. She was a resident of Lyons for fifty-one years formerly of Salina. She was a homemaker, graduated from Salina High School, a member of Faith Bible Church in Lyons, and a thrift shop volunteer. She was married June 6, 1952 to James W. (Jim) Crosby in Lindsborg.
Survivors include: husband, Jim of the Home; son, Terry Crosby, Royal, Arkansas; daughter, Peggy Schultz, Ellsworth; Special friend Diane “Jake” Lange; 2 sisters, Fern Kempke, Ellsworth, Shirley Metzger, Lincoln, Ark.; eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sons, Kennith E. (Fuzz) Crosby, and Timothy A. Crosby, daughter, Beverly A. Newell, two brothers, and four sisters.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 25, 2001 at Faith Bible Church, Lyons. Reverend Curtis Fitzgerald will officiate. Visitation will be from 2-7 p.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Family will be present from 5 to 7 p.m. Burial will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at Gypsum Hill Cemetery, Salina. Memorials may be made to Faith Bible Church or American Diabetes Association in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, May 24, 2011

CLYDIA L. RENOLLET

Clydia L. Renollet, 72, died May 19, 2011 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. She was born December 18, 1938 in Mountain View, MO to Cecil and Irene Pruitt Spradlin. She was a self employed Health Care Worker and resident of Sterling for thirty-five years, formerly of Wichita. She was a member of EHU of Saxman and Sterling Car Club of Sterling.
She was married on April 16, 1976 in Sterling to Dale Renollet; he died November 16, 2011. Survivors include: one daughter, Val Shoulders, Texarkana, TX; three sons, Don Stephenson, Darren Stephenson, and Chris Stephenson all of Sterling; brothers Don Spradlin, Wichita; Leonard Spradlin, Greenbriar, Ark.; one sister Beverly Spradlin-Kimpke, Higton, Ark.; step-mother Sue Spradlin, Quitmen, Akr.; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Her parents preceded her in death.
Funeral service is 2 p.m. Thursday, May 26, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling, with Jerry Fenwick officiating. Memorials may be made to the Sterling Public Library or Rice Reno County Hospice in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, May 24, 2011

BETTY B.ROBINSON

Betty B. Robinson, 88, passed away Thursday, May 19, 2011. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sidney and Gladys Bixby; husband Garry, and brother Sidney Jr.
She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Cub Scouts Den Mother, Gray Lady Hospital Volunteer, Woodland Lakes Community Church Member, Rear Machine Gun Turret Alignment Technician for Boeing, Graduate of East High Class of 1942, Professional Cake Decorator, and China Painter.
She is survived by her sons, Michael D. (Jane) Robinson of Wichita, David W. (Pam) Robinson of Emmett; grandchildren, Missy (Corey) Emmons of Overland Park, Aaron (Leslie) Robinson of Udall, Michael C. Robinson and fiancée, Tina Donnelley of McKinney, TX, and Andy Robinson of St. Marys; great-grandchildren, Kelsi Emmons, Josh Emmons, and Jake Emmons, all of Overland Park, and Addison Robinson of Udall.
The funeral service was held Saturday, May 21, both at the Lakeview Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Diabetes Association, 1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311.
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The Lyons News, May 24, 2011

Updated 5/20/11

GLORIA JEAN RAMIREZ

Gloria Jean Ramirez, 62, died Sunday May 15, 2011 surrounded by her family. She was born in Lyons, and graduated from Lyons High School in 1965. She retired as an LPN, and was married to her husband John Ramirez for forty years. She is survived by her husband John, son, Dr. Gregory (Lesley) Ramirez of Olathe; grandsons, Garrett and Lawson; and brother Art (Jackie) Ariaz of Wichita. She was preceded in death by her parents, Augustine and Elizabeth Ariaz. Funeral Mass was held at 10 a.m. and rosary said at 7 p.m. both at the All Saints Catholic Church May 19, 2011. Memorials have been established with Victory in the Valley and the Lupus Foundation of America, in care of Baker Funeral Home in Wichita.

Updated 5/17/11

RODNEY “BEEBE” HARRISON

Rodney “Beebe” Harrison, 92, of Sterling, Kansas died May 14, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was born September 28, 1918 to Benjamin and Christena Groth Harrison in rural Sterling.
He graduated from Alden High School in 1937, and was a member of the United Methodist Church in Alden. He married Viola “Dolly” Fimple on March 9, 1942 in Sterling. He was a lifetime resident of Rice County. He was a lifetime farmer living for 82 years at the same place he was born.
Survivors include his wife, Dolly, of the home; three daughters, Carol and Ron Langel of Alden, Pamela and Bill Boekhaus of Richfield, Sue and Kim Goebel of Overland Park; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
He was proceeded in death by two brothers, Wayne and John Harrison; one sister Virginia Gibson; and one grandson Michael Langel.
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at the United Methodist Church, Alden, with Rev. Amy Slater officiating. Burial will be in Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the family present. Memorials may be made to the Alden United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, May 17, 2011

ELDON JAMES SCHIERLING

Eldon James Schierling, 80, retired machinist manager and consultant, went to be with his Lord and Savior Saturday, April 30, 2011. Funeral services were May 4, 2011 at Downing & Lahey Mortuary West. Eldon was born in Garden City July 17, 1930. He married Elizabeth Prouty on February 8, 1952.
He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; son, Mike (Kay); daughters, Susan Johnson (Clay), and Deanne Ballard (Russ); sister, Adeline Friesen (Walt); grandchildren, Jody Danahy, Kristy Schierling, Katy Bingham, Michelle and Eric Schierling, Joshua and Ethan Johnson, Megan Campbell, Hailey and Cory Ballard; and seven great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Will and Susie Schierling; brother Menno; son, Jay; sisters, Ida Neufeld and Elma Enzs.
Eldon will be remembered for love of his family and friends, his sense of humor, appreciation for God’s creation, and his great generosity. Memorials have been established with the Kansas Humane Society at 3313 North Hillside, Wichita, KS 67219, and Healing Hands Comfort Homes at 140 North Tyler Road, Wichita, KS 67209.
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The Lyons News, May 17, 2011

Updated 5/13/11

EUNICE MCPHERSON BRADEN

Eunice McPherson Braden, 98, died May 12, 2011 in the Rice County District Hospital. She was born Nov. 11, 1912, the daughter of Grover Ward and Carrie C. Shumway McPherson in rural Lyons.
She graduated Lyons High School in 1929, and received her teaching certificate from Sterling College. She married Gene E. Braden on Nov. 24, 1932 in Lyons. He preceded her in death on Jan. 17, 1996. Since 1992 she was a resident of Lyons, but also lived in Bushton, Buhler and Ellinwood.
She was a homemaker and former bookkeeper and a member of the United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Lyons; Mutual Improvement Club, Bushton, and Rice County Democrats.
She is survived by her son J. Steven Braden, San Antonio, Texas; two grandchildren, Jay Braden and Katherine Stein; one great grandchild, Natalie; two nieces, Cynthia Shaw, Lawrence, and Janice Phillips, Nashiville, Tenn.
She was preceded in death by her sister Naomi Hope Buel.
Funeral Service will be 11:00 a.m. May 16, 2011 at the United Methodist Church, Lyons, with Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial will be in Lyons Municipal cemetery.
Memorials to United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons.
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The Lyons News, May 13, 2011

MAX C. LATTIMER

Max C. Lattimer, 82, died May 9, 2011 at the Hospice House in Hutchinson. He was born June 14, 1928 to W.E. “Wally” and Viola Gould Lattimer in Lyons. He was a lifetime Lyons resident, moving to Hutchinson in 1999. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marines, serving during WWII, worked for Raymond Oil Co. and farmed. He graduated from Lyons High School in 1946, and was a member of the First Christian Church in Lyons. He married Betty Jo Miller in Sterling on March 2, 1950.
Survivors include his wife Betty of the home, two sons, Max C. Lattimer Jr. of Sterling, and Mark and Connie Lattimer of Hutchinson; one daughter, Janet and Jim Sutton of Ft. Worth, Texas; one brother, Jim Lattimer of Newton; one sister, Marian Starks of Palm Bay, Flor.; seven grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Warren, Robert, and Hubert Lattimer; sisters, Velma Heiligman, Eulela Ulrich and Faye Dressel. Graveside service and burial will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 13, 2011 at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice House of Reno County in care of Birzer Funeral Home of Lyons.
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The Lyons News, May 13, 2011

RUTH ALICE SMITH

Ruth Alice Smith, 75, of Emporia, Kansas and formerly of Lyons died on May 12,2011 at Newman Regional Health in Emporia.
She was born on July 10,1935 in Emporia the daughter of A.G. and Willa (Bell) Pickett. She married Robert W. Smith on June 9, 1956 in Topeka. He survives at the home. Other survivors include.
Sons: Steve Smith and wife Mary Beth of Overland Park, Mike Smith and wife Shelly of Manhattan, Brent Smith and wife Cherryl of Tonganoxie, and Jay Smith of Salt Lake City, Utah. 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother Richard Pickett.
She attended Elementary and Junior High School in Manhattan, Kansas. She graduated from Topeka High School in 1953. In 1956 Ruth received her bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University in Home Economics Education. She received her master’s degree in Counselor Education from Emporia State University in 1973. She worked 22 years at the Flint Hills Technical College as an instructor, counselor, and Financial Aid officer until she retired in 1997.
She was a member of the First United Methodist Church In Emporia, Newman Hospital Auxiliary, Kansas State Alumni Association, Kansas Vocational Counselor Association, Kansas Association College Registrars, Kansas Association Student Financial Aid Administrators, and Delta Delta Delta sorority. She volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Newman Hospital, Bloodmobile, and many local sporting events.
The funeral service will be held at 1:30 P.M., Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at the First United Methodist Church, Emporia. The service will be conducted by Pastor Nancy Gammill of the church.
A private family graveside service will take place prior to the service. Memorial contributions to the Bob and Ruth Smith Scholarship Fund at Kansas State University, S.O.S. Shelter, or the Emporia Library may be sent in care of Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home. Online condolences can be left at www.robertsblue.com.
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The Lyons News, May 13, 2011

Updated 5/10/11

AUDRIE MICHELLE BOWLES

Audrie Michelle Bowles, infant daughter of Seth and Anna Bowles, passed away on Thursday, May 5, 2011. Funeral services were held at 3:30 p.m. Monday, May 9 at Broadway Mortuary, Wichita. In addition to her parents, survivors include her grandparents, William Hueston of Andover, Debra Hueston of Kanopolis, Mike and Dee Dee Bowles of Lyons, and Jessica Nusser of Arkansas, aunts and uncles, Bill and Joe Hueston, Jacob Whitebird, Chrissy and Triston Nusser. Share online condolences at www.CozineMemorial.com. Services by Broadway Mortuary.
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The Lyons News,
May 10, 2011

AURAL VAN SWENSON

Aural Van Swenson, 72, passed away of May 2, 2011 at his home in Niceville, Flo. He leaves his wife of 27 years, Marge Swenson; his son, Michael Swenson and wife Claudia; 2 sister, Phyllis Butts and husband Jim; Judy Hampleman and husband, Leroy, several cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Van was born June 23, 1938 to Oscar and Emma Swenson in Lyons. He attended Lyons Elementary School and graduated from Lyons High School in 1956, lettering in basketball, football, and tennis. He attended the University of Kansas and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering in 1961. He would later further his education by taking graduate classes at Ohio State University and received his Master of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering at the University of West Florida.
After college, he would spend four years as an officer in the Air Force where he would eventually work on missile projects at Wright Patterson AFB. Van then took a position at Hughes Aircraft in California where he would continue to work on air-to-air missile projects. After spending several years at Eglin AFB, in 1984 he accepted a position at United Technologies Corp. in San Diego as VP of Research and Engineering. Most of his professional career was spent as an engineer. He would, however, start a second career as a professional tax practitioner and investment specialist upon returning to Florida (Niceville) in 1992.
Throughout his life, Van was a sports enthusiast. He spent several years playing competitive tennis and was an avid golfer. He was also very passionate about his Kansas University Jayhawks – Rock Chalk Jayhawk! In addition to sports, he was an accomplished pianist and had always generously volunteered and shared his skills in the community. He was an active member in the Institute for Senior Professionals at Northwest Florida State College and the Knights of Columbus at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church.
His parents, Oscar and Emma Swenson, and his brother Bill preceded him in death. A visitation was held at Twin Cities Cremation and Funeral Service in Niceville on Thursday, May 5, and a memorial mass was held on Friday, May 6, at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association would be welcome.
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The Lyons News,
May 10, 2011

Updated 5/6/11

JOHNETTA G. ROLFS

Johnetta G. Rolfs, 87, died May 5, 2011 at the Ellsworth Co. Medical Center in Ellsworth.
She was born January 21, 1924 in Rush County, the daughter of John and Sarah Scheuerman Kaiser.
In 1942 she graduated from Otis Rural High School and then attended Ft. Hays State College receiving her teaching degree.
She married Alvin D. “Pete” Rolfs on June 10, 1948 in Otis. He preceded her in death on Dec. 9, 1995.
She was a member of the Grace Lutheran Church, Lyons and St. Peter Lutheran Church, Holyrood, the Lutheran Women’s Mission League, Music Club of Lyons, and the American Legion Auxiliary, Geneseo.
She was a longtime resident of Lyons and Geneseo.
She is survived by three sons, Harland and Claudia Rolfs of Bartlesville, Okla., Dennis and Kathy Rolfs of Lorraine, Ray Rolfs of Ellsworth; two daughters, Janet Bell of Salina, Jolene and Ben Amerine of Phoenix, Az, a sister Leona Krause of Phoenix, Az., 11 grandchildren, Trevor and Kim Rolfs, Pratt of Brendon and Megan Rolfs of Garden Plain, Brett and Angie Rolfs, Seth Rolfs both of Lorraine, Cy and Kiara Rolfs of McPherson, Eric and Lindsey Rolfs of Annapolis Md., Kevin Rolfs of Norman, Okla., Jason and Alyssa Matteson, Aaron Matteson, Mandi Bell all of Ft. Collins Co., Ryan Bell of Hutchinson, and 10 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a brother Ronald Kaiser.
Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. Sat., May 7, 2011 at Grace Lutheran Church, Lyons. Rev. Mike Herzberg and Pastor Lloyd Sprick will officiate.
Burial will be at Geneseo cemetery. Visitation is 3 to 8 p.m., Friday May 6, at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons with family present from 6 to 8 p.m.
Memorials to Plum Creek Plaza, Holyrood or Good Samaritan Society in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, May, 6 2011

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Updated 5/3/11

LINDA SUE SCHRAG

Linda Sue Schrag, 66, died April 27, 2011 at Via Christi-St. Francis Campus in Wichita. She was born October 29, 1944 to Finis and Mildred Hoefer Woolery in Wichita. She was a lifetime resident of Hutchinson, and moved to Chase 14 years ago. Linda was a retired CNA and activities coordinator.
Survivors include, children Debbie Knox of Clive, Iowa, Rocky Smith and wife Dana of Buhler, Mark Smith and wife Brenda of Hutchinson, Justin Smith and wife Teresa of Bridgeport, Dawn Joyner and husband Jason of Lyons; 11 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren; sisters Wanda Donnebaum, Dee Hapes, Trudy Helsel, and Doris Harms. Her parents, and two sons, Tommy and Danny Smith, preceded her in death.
Cremation has taken place and a graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday May 4, 2011 at Fairlawn Burial Park. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, Reno County Reins of Hope, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital all in care of Elliot Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.
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The Lyons News, May 3, 2011

MICHAEL CHARLES BROWN

Michael Charles Brown, 90, of Salina, died Thursday, April 28, 2011. He was born November 20, 1920 in Chase, the son of Charles W. and Catherine (Malone) Brown. He was a farmer and rancher all of his life, employed by the U.S. Postal Service during Christmas rush for fifteen years, and Town and Country Plumbing of Salina.
He was a member of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Flywheels Yesteryear Museum, Smoky Hill Museum, Salina Twirlers, and Kansas Farmers Union. He served in the Medical Corps of the 9th Army Air Force during WWII, spending 11 months in England, thereafter being stationed in Europe for the duration. He moved to Saline County in 1936, graduating from Sacred Heart High School in 1939, and attending Brown-Mackie School of Business. He married Eleo Beth Schneider, August 9, 1951, she survives.
Other survivors are one son, James Joseph Brown of the home; one daughter, Jane Ann Brown, OPA, of St. Louis, Mo.; four nephews, Cedric and Christy Brown of Springville, Calif., Michael Linholm of Cheyenne, Wyo., Duane and Judy Linholm of Prescott, Ariz., and Ronnie Haberman of Wichita; many great nieces and nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, John Matthew, Leo Albert, and Bernard William; and three sisters, Frances Elizabeth Linholm, Edna Agnes Haberman, and Audrey Catherine Brown.
Mass of Christian Burial was Monday at 10 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Cathedral with burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to The Sacred Heart High School Endowment or The Sacred Heart Cathedral in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N 8th, Salina, Kansas.
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The Lyons News, May 3, 2011

JOSEPH R. (JOE) WALTON

Joseph R. (Joe) Walton, 92, died May 2, 2011 at Sterling Presbyterian Manor. He was born April 22, 1919 in Kingsdown to Rev. John and Harriet Benton Walton. He was a Sterling resident since 1969, formerly of Deerfield. He worked as a repair engineer in the natural gas industry, a carpenter, and in the electrical plant at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility. He was a member of the Sterling United Methodist Church, and Sterling Silver Threads.
He married Vera Wing on June 6, 1948 in Leoti, she survives. Other survivors include their three children, Dorothea (Dot) LeClerc and husband Steve of Hays; Norma Ooms and husband Wesley of El Paso, Ill.; Roger Walton and his wife Susan of Arlington, Texas. He had eight grand children, four great-grand children, and two sisters, Laura Griffin of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Juanita Weidner of Mesa, Ariz.
Seven brothers, and three sisters preceded Joe in death. Visitation will be 5 –7 p.m. Wednesday, May 4, 2011 at the Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Funeral Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 5, 2011 at the United Methodist Church in Sterling with Reverend Marvin Ewertt and Pastor Wesley Ooms officiating. Burial will take place at the Sterling Community Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Sterling United Methodist Church or Sterling Presbyterian Manor in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, May 3, 2011

Updated 4/26/11

CAROLE E. WORKMAN

Carole E. Workman, 66, died April 21, 2011 at the Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born May 31, 1944 in Sterling to Weldon and Retha Smith Burgess. She lived in Sterling most of her life and worked in the food industry, graduating from Sterling High School, and then attending Sydney’s Beauty School in Hutchinson. She was a member of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary, of Lyons, and Hutchinson. She married Jim Savage and later Danny Workman, both later divorced.
Survivors include two sons, Chris and Karen Savage of Sterling, and Tim Workman of Topeka; two daughters Tena Novack of Lyons, and Jenny and Tony Gentile of Raymore, MO; eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers, Benny Burgess, Truman Burgess, Derald Burgess, and Richard Burgess, four sisters, Betty Scholle, Ilene Lewis, Colleen Lehr, and Shirley Noce .
Funeral services were at 10:30 a.m. Saturday April 23, 2011 at the Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Reverend Kendal Connor officiated. Burial was at the Sterling Community Cemetery. Memorial may be made to Main Street Beautification Project/Main Street Sterling or Rice County EMS in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, April 26, 2011

EDITH B. HAYES

Edith B. Hayes, 97, died April 22, 2011 at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. She was born July 6, 1913 in Sabetha to Lewis and Winifred Racus Bechtelheimer. She had lived in the Geneseo and Little River area since 1934. She was a homemaker, had graduated from Sabetha High School in Sabetha, and attended McPherson College. Edith was a member of the United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Senior Center, and the L.R. Study Club, all of Little River, the Rice County Historical Society, and the Webster Birthday Club.
She was married February 2, 1934 in McPherson to William Kermit Hayes. He died January 6, 1988. She is survived by three sons, Delbert and Joyce Hayes, and LeRoy and JoNelle Hayes, both of Geneseo, and Byron and Anne Hayes of Lyons; one daughter, Patricia and Tom Mais of Emporia; sister-in-law, Lois Hayes of McPherson; seven grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. Three brothers preceded her in death.
A Family burial will be at 9 a.m. Tuesday April 26, 2011 at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery with a 10:30 a.m. Celebration of Life service at the United Methodist Church in Little River. Pastor Theresa Forshee will be officiating. Memorials may be made to the United Methodist Church or Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, April 26, 2011

MILDRED BONNIE SNYDER

Mildred “Bonnie Snyder, 93, of Logan died April 25, 2011. She was born Feb. 7, 1918. She is the mother of Leora Horner of Lyons. She was preceded in death by her husband and one daughter. She is sruvived by eleven children, and several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Services are pending by Olliff Boeve Memorial Chapel in Phillipsburg.
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The Lyons News, April 26, 2011

Updated 4/22/11

DORTHEA IDELL NIEMOELLER

Dorthea Idell Niemoeller, 95, of Manhattan, died Wednesday, April 20, 2011. She was born March 14, 1916 in Audubon, Iowa to Cecil Adell (Denny) and Richard Ellis Carley. Throughout her life she has lived in Galveston, Texas, Manhattan, and Kansas City. She married Herbert Niemoeller on October 17, 1936 in Industry.
She was a homemaker and childcare provider, she also was taught herself to play the piano, and gave lessons to children. She loved nature and animals, especially her pets, and enjoyed playing cards with family and friends.
Survivors include, two daughter, Lucie J. and Jerry Sochor of Edmond, Okla., and Bettie L. and Larry Barnes of Simla, Colo.; two sons, Richard and Mary Niemoeller of Livermore, Calif., and Howard L. and Margurite Niemoeller of Ocean View, Del.; one sister May, of Lyons; five grandchildren, Bobby, Mark, Gregory and Matthew Barnes, and Paula Johnson; 27 great-grandchildren, and 20 nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, infant son Herbert Gary Niemoeller, three sisters Edna, Lauretta Abt, Polly Williams.
A funeral service will be held Monday, April 25, 2011 at 3 p.m. at the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home in Manhattan with burial following in the Sunset Cemetery in Manhattan. Friends are invited to call on Saturday April 23, 2011 from 1 to 6 p.m., and on Sunday April 24, from 1 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, April 22, 2011

ORLAND LEE SCHULZ

Orland Lee Schulz, 84, died April 18, 2011 at the Hospice House in Hutchinson. He was born July 27, 1926 in rural Bushton to John and Myrtle Beneke Schulz. He was a lifetime resident of the Bushton area, working for NCRA for 22 years and was a lifetime farmer.
Orland graduated from Bushton High School and was a veteran of the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a charter member of the Bushton VFW and American Legion in Lyons. He married Gloria Chesnut on May 5, 1949 in Wichita Falls, Texas. she died Feb. 2, 1985.
Survivors include, one son, Sheldon Lee Schulz of Bushton; one daughter, Cheri and Ron Chester of Glade; three brothers, Harold Schulz, Bernard Schulz, and Howard Schulz; two sisters, Joan Moody, and Janie Head; two grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son, Johnny Louis Schulz, and sister Aloha June Brown. Funeral services were today Thursday April 21, 2011 at 2 p.m. at the Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. The burial will take place at the Bushton Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Hospice House in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, April 22, 2011

JOSEPH W. PORTER

Joseph W. Porter, 85, died April 18, 2011 at the Rice County District Hospital, Lyons. He was born Dec. 19, 1925 in Keota, Okla. to Charles and Olivia Gray Porter. He grew up in McCurtain, Okla., was formerly of Tulsa, Okla., and had lived in Bushton since 1991.
He was an oil field worker, barber, and a veteran of the U.S. Navy during World War II aboard the USS Wyandot AKA 92. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Bushton, Masonic Lodge in Claflin, and Scottish Rite in Tulsa, Okla. He married Norma Louis on September 30, 1947.
Survivors include his wife Norma, of the home; son, Patrick and Kelly Porter of Edmond, Okla.; grandchildren, Allison Porter and Jacob Porter; sister-in-law, Phyllis Richards of Woodland Park, Colo.; and numerous nieces and nephews. 12 brothers and sisters preceded him in death.
Funeral service will be Friday, April 22, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Bushton, with Reverend Gene Langhofer officiating. Burial will be at the Bushton Cemetary. Memorials may be made to the Scottish Rite, in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, April 22, 2011

Updated 4/19/11

LINDA DARLENE FISHER

Linda Darlene Fisher, 64, of Independence, Mo. passed away Friday, April 15, 2011 at Centerpoint Medical Center. She was born April 9, 1947 in Brownsville, Texas to William and Reba Rogers Ratliff. She married Michael E. Fisher on September 1, 2002. She was a wife, mother, and grandmother. Linda loved her pets, gardening, and her family.
Her father, her maternal grandparents, Shelby and Mae Rogers, and a nephew, John Ratliff, preceded her in death. Survivors include, her husband Michael; two sons, Paul Turnage of Bonner Springs, Ks., and Grant and Angelique Turnage of Grain Valley, Mo.; mother, Reba Ratliff of Raytown Mo.; one grandson, Bobby Turnage; one granddaughter Brynn Turnage; four brothers, Bill and Donna Ratliff of Kingsville, Mo., Larry and Carol Ratliff of Grain Valley, Mo., Stan Ratliff of Moberly, Mo., and Doug and Cindy Tipton of Dallas, Tx.; one sister Christy Ratliff of Lyons; a brother-in-law and sister- in-law, Butch and Cynthia Garrett of Kansas City, Mo.; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A graveside service will be held today, Tuesday, April 19 at 12:30 p.m. at the Ft. Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, KS.
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The Lyons News, April 19, 2011

Betty Johannsen

Betty Johannsen, 83, died April 16, 2011 at the Rice County District Hospital. She was born October 24, 1927 in Alva, Okla. to Louis Edward and Dollie Rae Greenway Bindrum. She had been a Lyons resident since 1945, formerly of Alva, Okla. She was a homemaker and a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and VFW Auxiliary, both of Lyons. She married Raymond Herold. He died July 25, 1975. She married Robert Johannsen in Las Vegas, Nev. April 4, 1982.
Survivors include her spouse Robert Johannsen of the home; sons, J.L. Herold of Chase and Raymond and Leann Herold of Lucas; daughter, Carla and Mike Muench of Hays; stepsons, Mike and Brenda Johannsen, Tom and Linda Johannsen, and Greg and Anita Johannsen all of Lyons; stepdaughter, Vickie and Dennis Byard of Hutchinson; one sister Patricia Peverley of Lyons; 13 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband Raymond Herold, two brothers, and two sisters. Funeral service is today, Tuesday, April 19, 2011 at 2 p.m. at the Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Joel Grizzle officiating. Burial will be at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to Hospice Care of Kansas in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, April 19, 2011

Updated 4/15/11

ANITA WHEALY ODEN

Anita Whealy Oden, 99, died April 12, 2011 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was born Jan. 18, 1912, on a farm near Wellington, the daughter of Arthur Caldwell and Elizabeth Lynn Hartley Whealy. She graduated from Wellington High School and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in art interior design from Pittsburg State Teachers College. She married Wilmer “Bud” H. Oden March 2, 1934, at Miami, Okla. He died Dec. 13, 2004. She was a member of First United Methodist Church with the Women’s outstanding service pin, AAUW, a 50-year member of Order of Eastern Star, MB Club and Sterling Sorosis. A longtime Sterling resident, she was a homemaker.
Survivors include one son, Bob and Judy Oden of Shawnee Mission; one daughter, Fira Stout of Sterling; one daughter-in-law, Jan Oden of Sterling; eight grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, A. H. Oden; one son-in-law, Ron Stout; one brother, Bud Whealy; one grandson, Doug Stout; and two sisters, Ramona Weible and Mary Gartman.
Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 21 at First United Methodist Church in Sterling with the Rev. Marvin Ewertt officiating. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery in Sterling. Friends may call from 9:30 a.m. until service time April 21 at the church. Memorials are suggested to Buddy Oden Scholarship Fund, Bell Choir Fund or First United Methodist Church, all in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
LYONS NEWS
April 15, 2011
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CAROL J. BRADFORD

Carol J. Bradford, 69, died April 12 at Salina Regional Hospital. She was born March 27, 1942, in Great Bend, the daughter of Jules F. Warlop and Agnes Louise Stumps Warlop. She married Kenneth W. Bradford April 20, 1963, at Holyrood. A rural Holyrood and Bushton resident since 1975, formerly of Kanas City, she was a licensed practical nurse at Winfield State Hospial, was employed by Mosaic in Ellsworth and was home caregiver in the area.
She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Holyrood.
Survivors include her husband of Florissant, Colo.; two son, Jeffrey S. Bradford of Virginia Beach, Va., and Aaron P. Bradford of Holyrood; one daughter, Julie Bradford of Holyrood; and one sister, Sharon Stahl of Kailua, Hawaii; two grandchildren; and one great -grandchild.
Funeral will be at 10 a.m. April 16 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Holyrood with the Rev. Father James Hoover officiating. Vigil will be at 7 p.m. April 15 at the church. Burial will be at Claflin Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the family.
LYONS NEWS
April 15, 2011
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LUELLA MARIE PFLUGHOEFT

Luella Marie Pflughoeft, 90, died Apr. 12, in Lyons. She was born Aug. 25, 1920, in Ellsworth County, the daughter of William N. and Bertha D. (Ploog) Walker.
A lifetime resident of Ellsworth and Rice counties, she was a homemaker. She was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church and American Legion Auxiliary, both of Ellsworth.
On Aug. 14, 1948, she married Raymond Pflughoeft in Ellsworth. He preceded her in death Aug. 30, 2009. She was also preceded in death by brothers Perry Walker and Myrl Walker and a sister Mabel Wright.
Survivors include daughters Lou Ann Clark (Brent) of Lyons and Carole Miller of Henderson, NV; grandchildren Mark Miller (Debbie), RaeAnn Hayes (Scott), Matthew Clark, Brittany Clark and Staci Clark; and great grandchildren Cheyenne Raymarie Hayes, Cheryl Faye Hayes, Jordan Raymond Miller, Katherine Theresa Miller and Cooper Scott Hayes.
Visitation will be from 1-8 p.m, Friday with family present 6-8 p.m. at Parsons Funeral Home in Ellsworth
Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Apr 16 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Ellsworth with burial following in the Ellsworth Memorial Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Good Samaritan Society of Lyons or Alzheimers Assn., in c/o the funeral home, PO Box 45, Ellsworth, KS 67439.

LYONS NEWS
April 15, 3011

Updated 4/12/11

MARILEE MONROE

Marilee Monroe, 80, died April 9, 2011 at Sterling Presbyterian Manor. She was born August 21, 1930 in Cushing Oklahoma to Fred and Mae Caruthers Mathes. Marilee was a resident of Geneseo for 65 years and was a retired rehabilitation aid at the Lyons Good Samaritan Center. She was a member of the Church of Nazarene in Lyons. On September 6, 1947 she married Raymond E. Monroe at Lyons. He died February 24, 2006.
Survivors include two sons, David J. and Barbara Monroe, Blakeslee Pa., and Douglas J. Monroe of Geneseo; one Daughter, Susan F. and Richard Elstun of Lyons; two sisters, Shirley Koehn of McPherson and Karen Stead of Slidell, La.; 15 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a daughter Connie L. Williams; son Michael E. Monroe; two sisters, Freda Ploutz, and Carol Cramsey; and grandson Nicholas Elstun.
Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wed., April 13, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Dr. Donald Strohmeyer will officiate. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Tuesday with family receiving friends from 5 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home. Burial will be at the Geneseo Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Lyons Church of the Nazarene or Williams Syndrome.
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The Lyons News, April 12, 2011

P. DEAN BIGGS

WICHITA - Biggs, P. Dean, 63, Vice President of Metro Courier & Wilson Building Maintenance, passed away Sunday, April 10, 2011. Rosary is 7:00 pm, Tuesday, April 12 at Downing and Lahey West Mortuary; Mass of Christian Burial is 10:00 am, Wednesday, April 13 at St. Jude Catholic Church, and burial is 2:00 pm in the Lyons Municipal Cemetery, Lyons, KS. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy; sons, Troy R. (Jenny) Biggs, Jason M. (Norma) Biggs both of Wichita; brothers, Sam Biggs of Beverly Hills, CA, Dennis Biggs of Abilene, KS; sisters, Mary Nelson of Rogers, AR, Alice Wiggins of Wichita, and six grandchildren. Memorial has been established with The Lord’s Diner, 520 N. Broadway, Wichita, KS 67214.
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The Lyons News, April 12, 2011

GARY LEHR

Sterling, Kansas – Gary L. Lehr, 77, died April 7, 2011 at his home in Sterling. He was born March 24, 1934 in Hutchinson to Virgil Lee “Bill” and Gertrude Lena Bond Lehr. He was a resident of Sterling since 1998 formerly from Hutchinson and Dallas, Tx.
He retired from Gibson’s Discount Center, a Salesman for JaCam Chemical of Sterling, and former meat cutter and owner of Lehr’s Packing Plant of Hutchinson. He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1952, was an Eagle Scout, and a member of the Union Valley Church in Hutchinson.
Gary was married to his first wife Wanda Estabrooks on January 15, 1953; she lives in Valley Center. He married his second wife Patty Boggs in 1982; she died in 1989.Survivors are two sons, Don and Tricia Lehr of Wichita, and Bill and Su Lehr of Valley Center; three daughters, KayLene and Dewey Haug of Valley Center, Patty and Jack Walton of Sterling and Candace “CJ” Lehr of Boston, Mass; one step-son David Boggs of Topeka; one step-daughter, Theresa and Scott Gross of Hays; one sister, Bonnie Pearson of Denver, Co.; 10 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. His parents preceded him in death.
A private family service will take place, and memorials may be sent to the Center for Basic Cancer Research at KSU, in care of Birzer Funeral Home of Sterling.
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The Lyons News, April 12, 2011

Mabel Flickinger

Mabel Flickinger, sister of Herman Disque of Lyons, died April 9, 2011 at the age of 96.
Memorial services were today at 10:30 at the Pernwell-Gabel Cemetery and Mausoleum in Hutchinson. Memorials may be given to the Hospice Care of Kansas in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, April 12, 2011

LILA KAY HODGES

Lila Kay Hodges, 64, died April 6, 2011, at the Kansas Heart Hospital, Wichita, from complications from a stroke.
She was born July 24, 1946, the daughter of Dan Gadberry and Eva B. Darrah. A resident of Newton, she had formerly lived in Haven, Lyons, and Sterling. She was a homemaker and a member of the Crosspoint Church. On December 29, 1962, she married Donald R. Hodges in Hutchinson. He died March 6, 2005.
Survivors include: two daughters, Angela Wittman and husband Rex of Newton, Sherry Earle and husband David of Sterling; two brothers, Larry Gadberry of Ft. Worth Texas, and Roger Gadberry of Larned; three sisters, Linda Pitts of Lyons, Darla Vanmeter of Hutchinson, and Paula Small of Lyons; seven grandchildren, Ashley Brandes and husband Paul of Gurnee, Ill., Jonathan Earle of Sterling, Tyson and Taylor Goldsmith both of Newton, Austin Earle of Sterling, and Carson and Carlie Wittman both of Newton. Her parents, husband, and two brothers, Jim and Randy Gadberry, preceded her in death.
Funeral service was Monday, April 11, 2011 at Crosspoint Church in Hutchinson, with Pastor Andy Addis presiding. Burial followed at Peace Creek Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to the church in care of the mortuary. Please visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a personal message for her family.
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The Lyons News, April 12, 2011

CARL GEORGE MILLER

Ellinwood, Kansas – Carl George Miller, 86, died April 10, 2011 at Woodhaven Care Center, Ellinwood. He was born October 22, 1924 in Rural Barton County to Conrad and Anna Reints Miller.
He was a retired farmer and lifetime Barton County resident. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Ellinwood, and a church council member. He was a member of the Midwest Energy Board of Directors for nineteen years, Great Bend Coop Board of Directors for eleven years, Barton County 4-H Holding Board for three years, and a Community Leader with the Lakin Go-Getters 4-H Club for eleven years.
He was married to Evelyn May Bryant on April 9, 1950. Survivors include: wife, Evelyn Miller of the home; three sons, Maurice and Lila Miller of Garden City, Keith and Connie Miller of Great Bend, and Don and Julie Miller of Geneseo; two brothers, Louis Miller of Bloomington, Ill., and John Miller of Albert, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Abbe, Edward, Martin, and Eilt Miller; and a sister, Tena Marshall;.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Ellinwood with Reverend Jeff Frakes officiating. Visitation will be 1 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home with family receiving friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Burial will be at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery, Ellinwood. Memorials may be sent to St. John’s Lutheran Church or the Barton County 4-H Council.
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The Lyons News, April 12, 2011

Sara P. Hill

Sara P. Hill, a former Lyons resident and the widow of the late Lyons physician Dr. Edwin Hill, died in Cleveland, Ohio, April 5, 2011, at the age of 93.
She lived in Lyons from 1959 through 1967. She was later the clerk of the Reno County District Court for 17 years.
Survivors include a son, Michael Stephenson and wife Coni of California, and a daughter, Teresa Stephenson Hess of Ohio; sister, Helen Rogers of Hutchinson, three granddaughters, five great-grandchildren, and a great-great-granddaughter.
A memorial service will be held in Hutchinson at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the Emanuel Lutheran Church, 140 East 30h, Hutchinson, or the Lake Humane Society, 7564 Tyler Boulevard, Bldg, E, Mentor, OH 44060-9400.
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The Lyons News, April 12, 2011

MILDRED “MILLIE” GELLNER

Little River, Kansas- Mildred “Millie” Gellner, 77, died January 13, 2011 at the Rice County District Hospital, Lyons. She was born January 13, 1934 in Star City, Ark. to Thad and Mattie Hopkins Deweese. She was a Little River resident since 1999 formerly of Wichita and waitressed in restaurants. She was of the Baptist faith. She Married Clifford McLeod August 17, 1956 in Wichita; he died August 11, 1982.
Survivors include: one son, Rusty McLeod of Little River; one daughter, Bonnie Raymond of Midwest City, Ok.; three sisters Mary Picknell of Georgia, Bonnie Ohmart of Wichita and Annett Patton of Hays; three grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her companion Emler Nichols; spouse, Randy Gellner; sister, Ruth Merrell; and brothers, Virgil Deweese, and J.B. Deweese.
Graveside service is at 2 p.m. Saturday April 16 at the Bean Memorial Cemetery, Little River. Memorials may be sent to the American Cancer Society in care of the Birzer Funeral Home of Lyons.
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The Lyons News, April 12, 2011

Updated 4/8/11

Carol K. Thompson

Carol K. Thompson, 80, died April 7, 2011 at her residence in Arlington.
She was born July 14, 1930 in Great Bend the daughter of Thomas and Martha Sheils Keenan. A former resident of Larned, she lived in Arlington since 1984.
She graduated from Radium High School in 1948, and married Melvin D. Thompson July 17, 1948 in Colorado Springs, Colo.
She was a homemaker and doll maker for more than 45 years, and was widely known for her handcrafted Raggedy Ann and Andy, Amish, and Orphan Annie dolls.
She was a member of the Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in South Hutchinson.
She is survived by her husband Melvin of the home; four sons, Dan and Kay Thompson, Radium, Kim and Joy Thompson, Topeka, Randall Thompson, Pretty Prairie, Kevin and Marie Thompson, Wichita; three daughters, Karml and Randy Blumanhourst, Lyons, Krystl Thompson, Hutchinson, Kandi Smith and Doug Ramey, Ft. Worth; one brother, John and Marie Keenan, Seward; two sisters, Lois and Jim Daniels, Wichita, Mary Lynn Tesar, Bellevue, Neb.; 27 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a daughter, Kelcy Thompson; son-in-law, Mike Smith; three sisters, Helen Friesen, Dolores Bryant, infant Martha Keenan; two brothers, Kenneth and Maurice Keenan; grandson, Justin Thompson; granddaughter, Kara Hogan.
The Funeral Mass will be 2:00 p.m., Monday April 11, 2011 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Seward, with Parish Rosary at 1:30 p.m. at the church. Officiating will be Father Rene Guesnier and Father Brian Nelson. Vigil Service will be 7:30 p.m. Sunday, April 10, 2011 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church,South Hutchinson, with Father Brian Nelson. Burial will be at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Seward. Memorials to: Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, So. Hutchinson, in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons,.
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The Lyons News, April 8, 2011

JENNY LEE ARWOOD

Lyons, Kansas – Jenny Lee Arwood, 96, died April 5, 2011 at the Rice County Hospital, Lyons, KS
She was born April 6, 1914 in Kansas City Missouri to Charles Aubrey and Leona Bartlett Davies. Jenny was a resident of Lyons since 1944. She graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1932, and Hutchinson Junior College in 1934 where she participated in both basketball and swimming. She retired as a dietician from the Lyons District Hospital.
Jenny was a member of the Lyons First United Methodist Church, UMW, D.A.R., Priscilla Club, 4-H leader, Girl Scout, and Boy Scout leader, H.D.U., and Quilter’s groups in Lyons and Hutchinson. She was married to James Waldo Arwood in Hutchinson, Kansas August 5, 1934. He preceded her in death, October 18, 2002.
Survivors are a son, Jim and Jean Arwood of Phoenix, Ariz., a son-in-law Mike Bolton of Phoenix, Ariz.; daughters Nancy Arwood of Denver, Colo., Polly and Don Delehant of Shenandoah, Iowa, and Sally and Don Beydler of Hutchinson; sister Edna Swinton, Phoenix of Arizona; 11 grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a daughter Sue Bolton, brothers Robert and Jim Davies, and one sister Mary Frances Engel.
Funeral service will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Lyons, at 10:30 a.m. Friday April 8, 2011. Reverend Dr. Quentin Bennett will officiate. Visitation will be Thursday April 7, 2011 from 2-7 p.m. at the Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons, with the family present from 5-7 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Lyons Good Samaritan Center or Rice County Community Foundation, in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, April 8, 2011

LUELLA FITZGERALD

Luella “Dickie” Fitzgerald of Hutchinson, sister of Janie Riggs of Lyons, died March 30 at the Hospice House in Hutchinson. She was 81.
She was a longtime resident of Hutchinson, and with her family had been owners and operators of Pic-Quick Stores.
Survivors include her husband, Edward. She was one of 11 children born to Julius H. and Gladys G. Schmidt Mueller, and is survived by 10 siblings including Mrs. Riggs.
Rosary and Holy Mass were Monday at the Church of the Holy Cross in Hutchinson, and burial was in the Penwell-Gable Cemetery and Mausoleum in Hutchinson.
Memorials may be sent to Hospice of Reno County, Salt City Faith and Light” (a group supporting people with disabilities that Dickie volunteered with), or Church of the Holy Cross, in care of the mortuary.
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The Lyons News,
April 8, 2011

Shirley Sawyer

Shirley Sawyer, who with her husband, Gene, managed the Lyons/Rice County Airport in the 1990s, died Sunday at the age of 72.
She was born in Winfield Sept. 23, 1938, and was a resident of Monkey Island, Okla., where the couple retired following their residency here. Prior to the Lyons operation, she was a military wife, worked at the Winfield State Hospita and Cessna Aircraft, and owned a trophy store.
In addition to the airport operation, the Sawyers owned the Oz Parachute Club which operated from the field west of Lyons, with Gene flying the “jump” plane, and Shirley not only doing the registration but on at least one occasion actually making a parachute jump. The Sawyers were widely known for their Christmas-time flights over Lyons, with part of the ticket costs going to the Bell and Star Fund.
She was involved in a number of activities in Oklahoma, as she was in Lyons.
Survivors in addition to her husband are her son, Don, of Hutchinson, Greg of The Colony, Texas, and Jeff of Wichita, and their wives, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were Monday. A memorial has been established in her name for the Lake Center Baptist Church/Benevolent Fund, 29020 S. Hwy. 125, Monkey Island, Oklahoma. Contributions may be made through the church or the Miles Funeral Service in Monkey Island.
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The Lyons New, April 8, 2011

Updated 4/1/2011

MARK ALLAN CHRISTMAN

Hutchinson, KS - Mark Allan Christmann, Sr., 55 died March 29, 2011 at Hospice House in Hutchinson after a four year battle with cancer.
He was born on June 6, 1955 in Pratt, Kansas, raised in Wichita and graduated from Hawaii Pacific University with honors and a degree in Computer Science.
Mark was a system software engineer and worked in this field for more than 20 years. His last fifteen years were with Electronic Data Systems, obtained by Hewlett-Packard, which included projects for the Department of Defense.
He met and married his wife Theresa during his four year tour in the U.S. Navy and than supported and toured with her during her active duty career. They relocated to Hutchinson in 2004 where he telecommuted from his home.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Theresa Christmann, three children, Marshall Christmann III and his wife Elizabeth, and their three children, beloved grandsons, Andrew, Tyler, and Marshall IV, all of Lyons, Mark Christmann, Jr., and Mary Christmann, both of Hutchinson. He is also survived by his mother, Crysta Chandler and step-father, Art Chandler, Lyons, father, Marlen Christmann, Pratt and sister, Melissa Williams and her husband, Al, Houston, TX.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Marshall Christmann II, and both maternal and paternal grandparents.
Cremation will take place and a private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be sent to Hospice House in care of Elliott Mortuary.

Updated 3/29/11

Billy Ray Stephens

Chase, Kansas – Billy Ray Stephens, 78, died March 28, 2011, at the Rice Co. District Hospital, Lyons Kansas. He was born May 14, 1932 in Washburn Missouri, the son of Clyde and Esther Loomis Stephens. A Chase resident for the past 12 years formerly from Tulsa, he worked as a machinist at both ParCo Manufacturing in Owasso, OK, and McDonnell Douglas Aircraft in Tulsa, OK, as well as a Sears Service Technician in Springfield, MO. Stephens was a veteran serving the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and a member of the Moose Lodge #862 in Tulsa.
Survivors are close friend Dora Holliday, Chase, KS. Three sons, Farrell Stephens, Cassville, MO, Johney Stephens Collinsville, OK, and Barry Stephens, Marshfield, MO. A daughter Ginger Bishop of Nixa, MO, and 13 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.
Son Joe Allen Stephens, brothers, Jimmy, Jerry, and Ricky, and one sister Vera Beeler preceded Stephens in death. Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday March 30, 2011 at Maplewoods Cemetery, Exeter Missouri. Reverend Robert Friesen will officiate. Burial will be at Maplewoods Cemetery, Exeter Missouri with Military Honors.
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The Lyons News, March 29, 2011

Updated 3/25/11

Bill Roberts

Wichita, Kansas – Bill Roberts, 73 passed away March 20, 2011. Bill was born August 1938 in Lyons. He is survived by a brother, Dan, of Hutchinson. Funeral services will be today at 10 a.m. at the Baker Funeral Home in Wichita and graveside service is 1:00 p.m. in the Lyons Municipal Cemetery.
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The Lyons News, March 25, 2011

Bernadette “Bernie” Herreld

Wichita, Kansas – Bernadette “Bernie” Harreld, 99 passed away March 22, 2011. Bernie was a homemaker and was preceded in death by her husband Floyd, her parents, two brothers, and one sister.
Survivors are daughters Barbara (Arlin) Hill, and Elizabeth (Ralph) Slavens both of Wichita, a brother Bernard (Mary) Eyth of Pittsburg, PA, grandchildren Robbie Long of El Dorado, Daniel Long of Wichita, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation with family present is Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Resthaven Mortuary, and graveside service is 1:00 p.m. Saturday March 26 at Resthaven Gardens of Memory. Memorial in lieu of flowers may be sent to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be offered at
www.resthavenmortuary-cemetery.com.
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The Lyons News, March 25, 2011

MAX MOXLEY

Funeral services for Max Moxley will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at First United Methodist Church in Sterling.
Max Moxley died on February 24, 2011 at the age of 98 at Sterling Presbyterian Manor. He was born March 2, 1912 in Chapman.
Rev. Marvin Ewertt will officiate the service. Memorials may be sent to Sterling Free Public Library in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
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The Lyons News, March 22, 2011

HAROLD S. HUDSON

HAROLD S. HUDSON, 93, SALINA passed away Sunday, March 20, 2011. He was born June 21, 1917 in Pawhuska, OK. He was a retired oilfield worker.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys M., parents; William and Audie Hudson, daughter; Patsy Vandervort and sister; Helen Hudson.
Survivors include his son; Lonnie Hudson of Guymon, OK, daughters; Janice Schuster of Cedar Rapids, IA, Sue Dreher of Salina; sister; Ora Patton of Tonkawa, OK; six grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren and eight great-great grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at Roselawn Heights Memorial Chapel, 1920 E Crawford, Salina, where the family will receive visitors from 5:00 to 7:00 PM
The funeral service will be at 10:30 Am, Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at First Southern Baptist Church, 2401 S Ohio, Salina, followed by burial in the Roselawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Salina.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to First Southern Baptist Church, 2401 S Ohio, Salina. Roselawn Mortuary, 1307 S. Santa Fe, Salina, is handling arrangements. For online condolences, visit www.roselawnsalina.com
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The Lyons News, March 22, 2011

Leah Jane Gustus

Leah Jane Gustus passed away on March 15, 2011 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was 74. Born February 4, 1937 in Steamboat Springs, CO, she was the daughter of Clifford Walter and Mary Alice Akin Kindle.
She was a resident of Geneseo from the early 1940s. On March 20, 1954 she married Dean Gustus in Lyons. In Geneseo, she was the owner of the former Jane’s Cafe, and she cooked for the Geneseo School District. She was also a bookkeeper for Gustus Machine, and was a homemaker. She was a member of the Queen Esther Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, Lyons, the Presbyterian Church, more recently the United Methodist Church in Geneseo, Ladies Thanksgiving Club in Geneseo, and a former member of the Geneseo Golf Club.
She is survived by husband; daughters Patricia “Patty” Beagley and Carolyn Kratzer and Mike of Geneseo; grandchildren, Curtis Beagley, Brooke Beagley, AshLea Beagley, Dean Beagley, Jennifer Deneault, Callie Gustus and Haddie Gustus; great-grandchildren, Sadie Beagley, Colby Beagley, Kameryn Gustus and Zoee Gustus; step-grandchildren, Ashley Gretencord and Laura Kratzer.
She is preceded in death by son Michael Dean Gustus, brother Bill Kindle, and sister Shirley Click. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, March 19, at 10 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Burial will be at the Geneseo Cemetery.
Visitation is from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., today at the funeral home, with the family receiving friends from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Memorials are to be sent to Geneseo American Legion, Geneseo United Methodist Church, or St. Judes Children’s Hospital in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, March 18, 2011

Dean Carter

Bushton, Kansas – Dean Carter age 76 died March 13, 2011 at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita Kansas. Dean was born November 11, 1934 in Anthony, Kansas to Richard and Pauline Haskins Carter. Dean was a residence of rural Bushton since 1962 where he farmed and was a longtime Dairyman. He graduated from Marshfield Missouri High School, and was a veteran of U.S. Army Air Borne. Dean was a member of the Salem United Methodist Church in rural Bushton, the Classic Chevy Club, and former Eureka Township Board Member.
Dean was married to Audrey Beneke June 3, 1962 in rural Bushton. She survives. Other survivors are a son, Darrin Carter, Salina; one daughter, Darla and husband David Miller, Doha, Qatar; two brothers Darrell Carter, Fairgrove, MO, Murlin Carter, Springfield, MO, and twin sister Mabel Masters, Marshfield, MO. Dean is also survived by four grandchildren, Brad Miller, Holly Miller, Dustin Carter, and Terri Carter. His parents preceded him in death.
Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday March 17, at the Salem United Methodist Church with Reverend John Schmitt officiating. Burial will be in the Bushton Cemetery with Military honors, Ft. Riley. Visitation is 2-7 Wednesday at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons, Kansas with family present from 5-7. Memorials may be sent to Bushton First Responders, Salem United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.

DELMAR R. KRUSE

Lorraine - Delmar R. Kruse, 91, died Friday, March 11, 2011 in Ellsworth, Kansas. He was born February 19, 1920 at home in rural Lorraine, Kansas to Benjamin R. and Anna Mae (Rolfs) Kruse. A life long resident of the Lorraine area, he was a farmer and stockman. He graduated from Lorraine High School and served in WWII as an Army Air Force pilot and airplane engine mechanic. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Lorraine, and served on the Lorraine school board.
On November 3, 1946, he married Wanita Myers at the home of her parents in rural Windom, Kansas. She survives. Other survivors include daughters, Jean Oswalt and husband Bill of Little River, JoAnn Bohl and husband Wayne of Ellsworth; a son Daniel Kruse and wife Tammy of Ellsworth; eleven grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.
The family will be present1-2 p.m. today at the First Baptist Church, Lorraine. Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., today with burial following in the church cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the church, in c/o the funeral home, PO Box 45, Ellsworth, KS 67439.

Updated 3/11/11

Zita L. Darling Stout

Zita L. Darling Stout died March 9, 2011 at the age of 92 at Sterling Presbyterian Manor. She was born May 12, 1918 in Hutchinson. She was the daughter of Ray and Emma Fair Page of Alden, formerly of Hutchinson. She was a cook at Sterling College cafeteria and former manager of Alden Village Café. She graduated from Alden High School. She was a member of Alden Baptist Church and former member of First Baptist Church in Hutchinson. She married Russell E. Darling on October 19, 1935 in Alden and he preceded her in death on January 23, 1965. She then married Ralph Stout of Alden who also preceded her in death.
She is survived by three sons, Bill and Janice Darling and Curt and Cindy Darling of Alden; Ronnie and Jane Darling of Marquette; two daughters, Dixie and Larry Proffitt of Sterling and Joyce and Lonnie Lewis of Leoti; thirteen grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Wanda Gray; granddaughter, Barb and Vern Stutz; grandson, Mike Darling and great-great grandson Alex Weaver. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at the Alden Baptist Church. Rev. Bob Bethell will officiate the service. Burial will be at Alden Valley Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 2:00 to 7:00 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with family present from 5:00 to 7:00. Memorial may be given to Alden Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.
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The Lyons News, March 11, 2011

Ray F. Vaughn

Ray F. Vaughn of Lyons died at the Rice County District Hospital on March 8, 2011 at the age of 83 in Lyons. He was born on May 28, 1927 in Garber, Oklahoma. He was the son of Sterling Henry and Irene Leona Johnson Vaughn. A resident of Lyons since 1954, he lived in Oklahoma previously. He was a retired plumber with Bush Plumbing and Heating. He graduated from Cleveland High School in Cleveland, Oklahoma, and was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.
He is survived by seven nieces and three nephews. Preceded in death by three brothers, Leo Vaughn; Jerry Vaughn and Walter Vaughn; and two sisters, Jewell Bradford and June Rowland.
The graveside service will be Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 11 a.m. at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Rev. Robert Friesen will officiate the service. Memorials can be given to National Rifle Association.
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The Lyons News, March 11, 2011

Updated 3/8/11

CURTIS ALLEN BRUCE

Curtis Allen Bruce, 63, Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away March 3, 2011 at home. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 12 at Little Blue Baptist Church, 7119 S. Noland Road, KCMO 64133. Interment will be in Maple Woods Cemetery, Emporia, Kansas.
Curtis was born November 5, 1947 in Emporia, KS. He worked as an equipment operator for the Rice County Highway Department.
He was preceded in death by his father, Woodrow Bruce; a sister, Janet Stafford; and brothers, Richard Bruce and Randy Bruce. He is survived by his mother, Isabelle Bruce; sons: Jeffery, Gregory, and Timothy Bruce; a daughter, Melissa Livesay; and 10 grandchildren.
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THE LYONS NEWS
MARCH 8, 2011

PAUL TURNBULL

Paul Turnbull, 81, went to meet Jesus Feb 20, 2011. Paul, the youngest of 11, & his twin, John, were born in Elizabeth, PA, in 1929.
He attended Sterling College & served as Bushton Postmaster 42 years & on Boards of: USD 328, Great Bend Center for Counseling.
Paul loved gardening, swimming, family camping trips, making home-made ice cream, playing Boogaloo &Tennessee Turnbull Reunions.
Survived by wife of 58 years, Miriam, children: Carol Turnbull, Keith Turnbull, Linda Becker, Cindy Craig, & 9 grandchildren.
Preceded by daughter, Katherine Mehringer, parents & 9 siblings. He was loved & will be missed. Memorial service at 2 pm, Sat.,
March 12 at Bushton United Methodist Church, 213 S. 3rd St., PO Box 216, Bushton, KS 67427. In lieu of flowers, family suggests memorials to Paul’s church above. Arrangements Cremation Society of KS and MO (816) 822-9888 onlinecondolences www.kccremation.com

Updated 3/1/11

Max Moxley

STERLING -- Max Moxley, longtime editor of the Sterling Bulletin, died Thursday, Feb. 24, 2011 at the age of 98 at the Sterling Presbyterian Manor.
Max Lowell Moxley was born in Chapman, Kansas on March 2, 1912, the son of Roy N. and Grace Stackhouse Moxley. His mother died in childbirth and he was immediately taken to live with his father’s sister, Maude Halbert, and her husband Frank in Chapman.
He attended Chapman city schools and Dickinson County High School where his mother had been a teacher. He spent the first 18 years of his life with the Halberts, graduating from Dickinson County High School in 1930.
He attended the University of Kansas, graduating in 1935 with a degree in journalism. During his senior year he was editor of the University Daily Kansan and also active in Sig ma Delta Chi, the honorary journalism fraternity which later became the Society of Professional Journalists to which he belonged the remainder of his life.
After graduation he took a job with the Abilene Daily Chronicle as a reporter and later as city editor. In 1940 he resigned to buy the Delphos Republican, a small weekly in Ottawa County. That same year he was married to Sarah Charlene Schiveley at the Schearer Memorial Lutheran Church in Chapman. He and Mrs. Moxley operated the Republican until the outbreak of World War II when they sold the paper. They moved to Kansas City where he worked in the Kansas City Bureau of the Associated Press. His principal job there was to file the Kansas-Oklahoma wire, serving all dailies in the two states. He often pointed out that this was an exciting time for wire services in that it covered the years of D-Day, VE Day, VJ Day and Roosevelt’s death. He later became Missouri editor.
At the close of the war he opted to return to country journalism and he and Mrs. Moxley purchased the Sterling Bulletin in October 1945 from Ruth Lyons, who had owned the paper since 1913. Moxley sold the Bulletin to Karl Gaston in 1975 and Mrs. Moxley remained with the firm as office manager until 1993, completing a total of 49 years of service to the Bulletin.
Moxley served as president of the Sterling Chamber of Commerce on two different occasions. In 1953 while Chamber president he headed a committee which started the first Sterling Community Chest, which today is sponsored by the Sterling Rotary. He also served two terms as president of the Sterling Library Board, including the years when the Ann Dilley addition was built and the elevator installed. He was instrumental in raising funds for the elevator and more recently funded the automation of the library as a memorial to his wife.
Moxley was a member of Sterling Rotary for 58 years, serving as club secretary for 22 years. In 2001 he completed 50 years of perfect attendance at Sterling Rotary.
During his years at the Bulletin Moxley served on three building committees at Sterling College and served as general chairman of the school’s 75th anniversary in 1962.
On retirement from the Bulletin Moxley assumed various duties about town including that of an assistant at the local library. One of his duties included the organization of the Sterling Tree Committee which, in the 70s, was responsible for treating hundreds of American elms for Dutch elm disease and the organization of nurseries to provide replacement trees.
Since 1891 the Bulletin has been identified as “The Old Home Paper,” both in the masthead and in the tin letters on the front of the building. For thirty years Moxley wrote a weekly column as “The Old Home Editor” and then for another ten years as “The Old Home Ex-editor.” More recently he has supplied a weekly photo-feature known as “Images of the Past.”
He was a member of the Lutheran Church at Chapman.
Mrs. Moxley died in May 2000. There are no survivors.
Cremation has taken place.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 23 at First United Methodist Church, Sterling.
Memorials may be sent to the Sterling Free Public Library in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.
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LYONS NEWS
March 1, 2011

JERRY DEAN “TINY” BELOTE

Jerry Dean “Tiny” Belote, 66, died Feb. 24, at Lyons. He was born Nov. 2, 1944, at Lyons, the son of Ben and Ida VanDest of Belote. He married Joy Ann Barbour Jan. 15, 1979, at Ellsworth. They later divorced. A longtime Lyons resident, he was a 1962 graduate of Lyons High School, was a welder and yard master for Indiana Harbor Built Railroad and an oil driller.
Survivors include his ex-wife, Joy Ann Barbour of Killeen, Texas; Ben and Regina Belote and Jim Belote, both of Lyons, and J.R. and Angel Thiel of Lewis; two step-sons, Jeff Hunter of Temple, Texas and Sonny Hunter of Colorado; one step-daughter, Kris Nelson of Temple; three brothers, David Belote of Alden, Ted Belote of Lyons and Robert Belote of Yakima, Wash.; one sister, Virginia and Jimmy Cates of Bloomington, Ill.; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Randy Gable; one aunt, Rosa Belote; and three infant sons.
Funeral will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at Lyons Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Larry Schumacher officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Jerry Dean “Tiny” Belote Memorial Fund, in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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LYONS NEWS
March 1, 2011

Robert Lewis Vincent Navarro

Robert Navarro of Hutchinson died Feb. 22, 2011 at his home in Hutchinson. He was born April 5, 1964 in Lyons the son of Bill Baker and Guadalupe Navarro.
A former resident of Lyons, he had lived in Hutchinson for the past four years, and worked in the produce department at Wal-Mart.
He was a member of the St. Paul Catholic Church, and The Knights of Columbus Council #7422, both of Lyons.
He is survived by one son, Brandon Navarro of Lyons, two daughters, Valerie Navarro of Lyons and Victoria Navarro; his father, Bill Baker of Phillipsburg; step father, Tony Camacena of Lyons; one sister Michelle Beach of Phillipsburg; half-brothers, Juan Camacena of Lyons and Lewis Baker of Phillipsburg; half sisters, Christina Crider of McPherson, and June Craig of Phillipsburg, and Mary Beth of Hill City; and two grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his Mother.
Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Sat. Feb. 26, 2011 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons, Rev. Robert Friesen officiating.
Memorials to Knights of Columbus Council #7422 in Lyons.

TROY G. COLLINS

Troy G. Collins, 79, of Mayetta passed away Feb. 23 at Medicalodge in Holton. He was born Aug. 31, 1931 in Tunas, Mo., the son of Lester and Eursie “Wheeler” Collins. He married Shirley Ann Springer. The couple later divorced.
Troy worked in boiler maintenance at Santa Fe (Memorial) Hospital for 30 years before his retirement and enjoyed scraping iron and auctions.
Survivors include four sons, Gerald B. (Kathy) Collins of Lyons, Otis D. Collins of Halfway, Mo., Troy L. (Karol) Collins of Salina and Basil A. Collins of Stockton, Mo; two daughters, Neice Munoz and Teresa Collins both of Springfield, Mo.; two sisters, Orzella Ward and Frances Barnett, both of Missouri; four brothers, Buddy Collins, Danny Collins, Bobby Collins and Virgil Collins, all of Missouri; 15 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sister, Nina Collins. Private family services will be held at a later date. The body was cremated. Memorials are suggested to Jackson County Friends of Hospice in care of Mercer Funeral Home, PO Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.
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LYONS NEWS
February 25, 2011

DORETTA W. RICHARDSON

Doretta W. Richardson, 89, died Feb. 21 at Cherry Village Nursing Home in Great Bend. She was born Oct. 10, 1921, at Gorham, the daughter of John and Clara Warehime Small. She married Melvin E. Richardson III June 24, 1938, in Russell. He died April 4, 1999. She was a member of United Church of Christ and Grove Park Golf Club, both of Ellinwood; and China Painters Group. A residence of Ellinwood since 1938, she was a homemaker and former part owner of Ellinwood Packing Plant.
Survivors include two daughters, Janice Dvorak of St. James, Mo., and Ginger Thomas of Ellinwood; one sister, Themla Rein of Kansas City; eight grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by four brothers, Clifford, Hiram, Edwin and Herchel Small; and three sisters, Leota Graham, Eunice Schwartzkopf and Gladys Sims.
Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 26 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Charles Mazouch officiating. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Kansas Wetlands Education Center, Cheyenne Bottoms, both in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
February 25, 2011

Updated 2/22/11

George Carter Forrest

SEMINOLE, Okla. -- George Carter Forrest, 86, died Feb. 19 in Oklahoma City, Okla. He was the son of Carter and Sarah (Cole) Forrest, born Dec. 26, 1924 in Lyons. Kansas. He attended schools in Lyons and Carrollton, Mo. He entered the United States Air Force during World War II until 1945. George retired after working for 39 years with Conoco, Inc/Conoco-Phillips. On March 20, 1947 George was united in marriage to Carol Belong, also of Lyons.
He is survived by his wife, Carol and several-in-laws; nieces; nephews and grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son Ron, his parents and a brother Jim Forrest.
Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Tuesday at the First Baptist Church, 420 Reid Street in Seminole, Okla., with Rev. Marvin Kehl and LaRoi Woods officiating. Burial will follow. Swearingen Funeral Home of Seminole is in charge of arrangements.
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LYONS NEWS
February 22, 2011

Richard G. Wellman

Richard G. Wellman, 89, of Alden died Jan. 26. Memorial service will be at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 25 at United Methodist Church in Sterling with the Rev. Marvin Ewertt officiating. Family will greet friends following the service in the church fellowship hall. Burial will be at 4 p.m. at Sterling Community Cemetery with the Rev. Bob Bethell officiating and military honors by Arden H. McKee American Legion Post No. 128 of Sterling. Memorials are suggested to Center for Basic Cancer Research Kansas State University in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
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LYONS NEWS
February 22, 2011

Kit Wagner

Kit Wagner, 63, died Feb. 20 at his home. He was born Dec. 16, 1947, in Lyons, the son of Floyd and Mavis Hurtt Wagner. He was a 1966 graduate of Lyons High School and attended Hutchinson Junior College Vocational Tech Program. He was a mechanic for Kansas Department of Transportation for many years and previously worked for Consolidated Manufacturing. He was a member of Loyal Order of Moose Lodge No. 982 of Hutchinson.
Survivors include two daughters, Katrina Burns and husband Ray of Hutchinson and Jennifer Dixon and husband Randy of South Hutchinson; mother, Mavis Logbeck of Hutchinson; one brother, Todd Wagner of Henderson, Nev.; two sisters, Kim Knight and husband John and Kathy Lohrey and husband Gary, all of Hutchinson; and five granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his father and a nephew.
Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Feb. 23 at Penwell_Gabel Funeral Home and Crematory in Hutchinson with the Rev. Harold Nelson officiating. Burial will follow in Penwell-Gabel Cemetery and Mausoleum. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. today with family receiving friends from 6 to 8 p.m., all at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Williams Syndrome Foundation or Hospice of Reno County, both in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
February 22, 2011

Updated 2/18/11

MAXINE E. NIELSEN

Maxine E. Nielsen, 73, died Feb. 16, 2011. She wasa born Oct. 29, 1937, at Lyons, the daughter of John W. and Esther Hogan Reed. She married Harold Richard Nielsen Dec. 9, 1956 at Lyons. A lifetime Rice County resident, living in Lyons and Alden, she was a 1955 graduate of Alden High School and was formerly with K.P.L of Lyons, Alden School System, Phil Durr attorney, Sterling Presbyterian Manor and a farmwife.
She was a member of United Methodist Church and Mu Alpha Chapter, Beta Sigma Phi, both of Sterling.
Survivors include her husband of the home; one son, Steve and Mary Nielsen of Alden; one daughter, Richelle and Faron Winters of Salina; sisters-in-laws, Estelle Reed and LaVerne Reed, both of Lyons; and 12 grandchildren. She was preceded indeath by two brothers, Harold Reed and Gene Reed, and her parents.
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Feb. 21 at United Methodist Church in Sterling with the Rev. Marvin Ewertt officiating.
Private Internment will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. Feb. 20 with family present at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Sterling USD No. 376 Music Department, in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
February 18, 2011

BEVERLY V. STROH

Beverly V. Stroh, 69, died Feb. 15 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born Oct. 30, 1941, at Portsmouth, Va., the daughter of Howard K. and Hilda Virginia Lawrence Brown Sr. She married Orville F. Stroh Dec. 17, 1960, at Portsmouth. A resident of Lyons since 2004, formerly of Ellsworth, she was a 1965 graduate of Wilson High School in Portsmouth and a military spouse. She was a member of Ellsworth bowling leagues.
Survivors include her husband of the home; one son, Sgt. James R. Stroh of Racine, Wis.; and granddaughter, Ava Leger-Stroh of Racine. She was preceded in death by a brother, Howard K. Brown Jr.
Funeral will be at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 21 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. Feb. 20 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors, in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
February 18, 2011

MARY HELEN VOLKMANN

Mary Ellen Volkmann, 98, died Feb. 10 at Mercy Regional Hospital in Manhattan. She was born Sept. 6, 1912, at Wakeeney, the daughter of Edward David and Ethel Mae (Dorns) Hobbick. She married Harley William Volkmann Nov. 19, 1934, at Lyons. He died Sept. 24, 2006. A resident of Great Bend since 1944 and residing in Manhattan since 2006, she was a homemaker and worked for many years at Security State Bank. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Great Bend.
Survivors include one son, Bill Volkmann and wife Nancy of Manhattan; one daughter, Chris Foos and husband Gary of Overland Park; three grandchildren, Kathy Foos of Olathe, Stacy Oshel of Paola and Michael Foos of Mission; five great-grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
Graveside service and Interment will be at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 19 at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Great Bend with the Rev. Tom Sheldon officiating. There is no visitation. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to First United Methodist Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home in Great Bend.
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LYONS NEWS
February 28, 2011

Updated 2/15/11

OTIS BLACKBURN

Otis Blackburn, 87, died Feb. 12 at Raymond. He was born Aug. 31, 1923, at Cushing, Okla., the son of Thomas Jefferson and Willie Mae Lowe Blackburn. He married Altus Higgins May 16, 1941, at Pawnee, Okla. (1st marriage) He married Jenny Melton in 1964. She died in 1994. A Raymond resident most of his life, he was a retired truck driver and mechanic and a U.S. Army veteran, having served as a Sgt. in the 2nd Battalion 342 Infantry during World War II, where he received a Combat Infantry Badge, Purple Heart and Bronze Star. He was a member of Raymond Baptist Church.
Survivors include a daughter, Pam Wornkey of Ellinwood; three sons, Dwight Blackburn of Cleveland, Okla., Dee Blackburn of Nardin, Okla; and Kevin Blackburn of Hoisington; two brothers, W. A. Blackburn and Delma Blackburn, both of Raymond; two sisters, Pauline Coldwater of Ellinwood and Gearldine Long of Raymond, 13 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, David Blackburn, his parents and one brother, Harold Blackburn.
Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Feb. 17 at Raymond Baptist Church with the Rev. Matt Handricks officiating. Burial will be at Raymond Hilltop Cemetery with full military honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard.
Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials are suggsted to Raymond Fire Department in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
February 15, 2011

CLARENCE W. “BUD” NELSON

Clarence W. “Bud” Nelson, 83, died Feb. 10, 2011, at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson.
He was born Sept. 3, 1927, in Shidler, Okla., the son of James P. and Donna Marie Pollock Nelson. He graduated from Chase High School, Chase, Ks, and attended Kansas University. A WWII veteran he served with the Army Air Corp. He retired as a stock clerk working in aircraft manufacturing.
On Oct. 7, 1956, he married Caroline “Joan” Casper in Bushton, Ks. She survives.
Other survivors include; three sons, Clarence W. Nelson Jr., Lyle A. Nelson and Lorne G. Nelson all of Inman, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild on the way.
He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother and sister and a brother James P. Nelson Jr.
Cremation has taken place there will be no services. Memorials may be made to the KU Endowment for the benefit of the Athletic Scholarship Fund in care of Elliott Mortuary. Please visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a personal message for Bud’s family.
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LYONS NEWS
February 11, 2011

LAURA R. JACOBS

Laura R. Jacobs, 50 died Feb. 11 at her residence in Lyons. She was born Nov. 15, 1960, at Salina, the daughter of Ray M. and Margaret A. Hughbanks Smith of Salina. A longtime resident of Hutchinson, formerly of Chase and Lyons, she received her CNA certificate and was a homemaker. She was a member of Apostloic Pentacostal Church of Hutchinson. Survivors include one daughter, Lori Jacobs of Lorraine; father, Ray Smith of Lyons; four brothers, Lance R. Smith and Paul R. Smith, both of Chase, Glen W. Smith of Thayer and Gilbert W. Smith of Dighton; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother.
Funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 19 at Assembly of God Church in Lyons with the Rev. Larry Shoemaker officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetary. There will be no visitation. Memorials are suggested to Laura Jacobs Memorial Fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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LYONS NEWS
February 15, 2011

OTIS BLACKBURN

Otis Blackburn, 87, died Feb. 12 at Raymond. He was born Aug. 31, 1923, at Cushing, Okla., the son of Thomas Jefferson and Willie Mae Lowe Blackburn. He married Altus Higgins May 16, 1941, at Pawnee, Okla. (1st marriage) He married Jenny Melton in 1964. She died in 1994. A Raymond resident most of his life, he was a retired truck driver and mechanic and a U.S. Army veteran, having served as a Sgt. in the 2nd Battalion 342 Infantry during World War II, where he received a Combat Infantry Badge, Purple Heart and Bronze Star. He was a member of Raymond Baptist Church.
Survivors include a daughter, Pam Wornkey of Ellinwood; three sons, Dwight Blackburn of Cleveland, Okla., Dee Blackburn of Nardin, Okla; and Kevin Blackburn of Hoisington; two brothers, W. A. Blackburn and Delma Blackburn, both of Raymond; two sisters, Pauline Coldwater of Ellinwood and Gearldine Long of Raymond, 13 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, David Blackburn, his parents and one brother, Harold Blackburn.
Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Feb. 17 at Raymond Baptist Church with the Rev. Matt Hendricks officiating. Burial will be at Raymond Hilltop Cemetery with full military honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard.
Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials are suggsted to Raymond Fire Department in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
February 15, 2011

Updated 2/11/11

WILLIS SAUDER FANKHAUSER

Willis Sauder Fankhauser was born October 17, 1919 to Katie (Sauder) and Peter Fankhauser at Madison, KS. He graduated from Lamont Kansas High school in 1937 and the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy in 1942.
Willis (Bill) was in the U.S. Army Medical Corps during World War II. He served two years as a hospital pharmacist at the Station Hospital at Ft. Robinson, NE. He was sent over seas as a replacement pharmacist with the 29th General Hospital stationed at Seoul, Korea. After his discharge from the Army in 1946, he purchased a drug store in Lyons, KS which he operated and sold in March of 1977. In 1947, he married his wife, Helen Louise Price of Olpe, KS and they were married for 63 years. He moved to Green Valley, AZ in 1979 and was employed by the Thrifty Drug Company. After retiring from pharmacy, he worked for H & R Block and also was a tax preparer for AARP. He volunteered as a concerned advisor for Casa De Esperanza for several years. He was a long-time member of the Presbyterian Church in Lyons, KS and the Valley Presbyterian Church in Green Valley, AZ.
He had seven brothers (Clarence, Arnold, Roy, Dale, Orval, Paul, and Robert) and three sisters (Edna, Kathryn, and Geraldine). One sister, Kathryn Brooks, of San Antonio, TX survives. One of his special life memories was visiting Fankhaus, Switzerland with his family to see where his grandfather, Johannes (John) Fankhauser, lived before coming to America in 1837.
He is survived by his wife, Helen, of Green Valley, AZ; two daughters, Pam Conrad of Madison, WI and Martha Fankhauser of Tucson, AZ; four grandchildren, Erin (Matt Splitek) Conrad and Abbi (Matt) Dunning of Madison, WI, Katie (Max) Munger of Amado, AZ, and Alex German of Tucson, AZ; and four great-grandchildren, Sofia and Ellie Conrad of Madison, WI and Pike and Janis Munger of Amado, AZ.
Willis died peacefully in his home at La Posada on February 6, 2011. He had, in his own words, “a zest for life” and a strong Christian faith. He was a man who listened and always had kind and reassuring words of support for friends and family. He truly loved life, his wife and family. His steady loving presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A celebration of his life will be held on February 11 at La Posada where he lived. Helen Fankhauser lives at 750 S. La Posada Circle, Apt #2, Green Valley, AZ 85614.

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LYONS NEWS
February 11, 2011

Robert J. Mullen

Robert J. Mullen, 77, of Geneseo died Feb. 8, 2011 at the Lyons Good Samaritan Center. He was born Feb. 16, 1933 in Marysville, the son of John T. and Nellie I. Armstrong Mullen.
He graduated from Marysville High School in 1951. He served in the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Army. He worked as a railroad brakeman/conductor for the Missouri Pacific and Union Pacific railroads.
A longtime resident of Geneseo, he married Joyce A. Shriner on Nov. 30, 1968 in Lyons.
He was a member of the St. Paul Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council #7422, both of Lyons, the American Legion, Geneseo, The National Association of Retired and Veteran Railway Employees.
Survivors include: wife, Joyce A. of the home; two sons, Terry Jay and his wife Doris Mullen, Hopkinton, Mass., and Scott Mullen, Pratt; one daughter, Mellissa and her husband Joshua Hulse, Bennington; three brothers, Charles Mulen, Elon, N.C., Richard Mullen, Beatrice, Neb., and Loren Mullen, Mission; two sisters, Kathleen Ware, Wichita, and Rosemary Mullen, El Cajon, Calif.; four grandchildren, Tanner and Kensey Mullen, August and Lillian Hulse.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, John and Gerald Mullen.
Parish Rosary will be Friday at 7:00 p.m. followed by Knights of Columbus at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Sat. Feb. 12, 2011 at S. Paul Catholic Church in Lyons. Father Dan Lorimer will officiate. Burial will be at the Geneseo Cemetery with full military honors by Ft. Riley.
Visitation is 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at Birzer Funeral Home.
Memorials to: Geneseo American Legion in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
February 11, 2011

William Ernest (Bud) Spradlin

William Ernest (Bud) Spradlin passed unexpectedly—but oh-so-peacefully—on February 6.
Bud died where he loved to live—wintering in Mesa, Arizona. As in life, he did it his way—after the Super Bowl and eating cookies, at home with Margie, his wife of 64 years.
Bud was born March 4, 1921, at Bennington, Oklahoma, to Virgil and Zelma Spradlin who moved to El Dorado, Kansas, when Bud was a small boy. He graduated from El Dorado High School in 1940 and lived there until October when he enlisted in the Army, serving in the European Theater until October 1945.
In January 1946 he went to work as a field operator for Skelly Oil Company in Chase, Kansas, retiring in 1983.
Bud and Margie Marie Aten were married on January 11, 1947, in Wichita, and lived in Chase and Lyons, Kansas, until moving to Shawnee, Kansas, in 1994. They especially enjoyed their Mesa winter home and their wonderful friends and neighbors.
A handsome devil, Bud’s crowning glory was his family, his World War II service (D-1 Omaha Beach) and serving five years as Commander of the VFW post 3184 in Lyons.
A 997th Field Artillery Battalion Chief Gunnery Sergeant, Bud’s service included GO 33 WD 45, Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes and Central Europe. He received the Europe-Africa-Middle East Medal with five Battle Stars, Good Conduct Medal and the American Defense Service Ribbon. Bud was most proud of his French Croix de Guerre awarded to only two officers and one enlisted man (Bud), which he showed off to carpet layers, heating and air technicians, plumbers, mailpersons and virtually every person who walked into his and Margie’s inviting homes, where they were known as “Mom and Dad” to people of all ages, far and wide.
Bud’s personal and Army history will live on for many generations through his video recorded in 2006 for the Veterans History Project for the Library of Congress, on file in Washington, DC and at the Jackson County Historical Society in Independence, Missouri.
Bud was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Eva Plummer and Ruby Lee, infant brother Paul Larue Spradlin, son Richard Spradlin and treasured brothers-in-law.
He is survived by his wife of the homes; sister Ruth Calhoon of El Dorado; sister Mary Jo Jones (and brother-in-law Fred) of Sun City West; son Jerry Spradlin and daughter Connie Humiston of Shawnee; grandson Justin Spradlin (and wife Tana) and great grandchildren Chase Depew and Jhet and Jayci Spradlin of Hutchinson; Jeffrey Spradlin of Dodge City; granddaughters Jacia Humiston of Chicago and Jana Spradlin of Overland Park; beloved nieces and nephew.
Visitation will be from 2-5 p.m. on February 13 at the Birzer Funeral Home (620-257-2211) in Lyons. A memorial service will be at 1:30 p.m. on February 14 at the Community Presbyterian Church in Chase, followed by burial at the Lyons Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation/Heart of America Chapter in memory of William E. Spradlin (this is in honor of great grandson Chase Depew), sent to the Birzer Funeral Home.
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LYONS NEWS
February 11, 2011

Updated 2/4/2011

Kenneth Ray ‘Corky’ Barton

Kenneth Ray “Corky” Pitts, 66, died Feb. 2, at his home in Sterling. He was born July 5, 1944, at Goodson, Mo., the son of Herman C. and June Riedsel Pitts. He married Kay Hall Sept. 18, 1965 at Hutchinson. A resident of Sterling since March 1990, formerly of Hutchinson, he was a graduate of Hutchinson High School, attended and earned an advanced degree from OSU and was a HVAC mechanical engineer for Western Supply. He was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in the Vietnam War. He was a member of United Commercial Travelers, American Legion, D.A.V. all of Denver, and former Board of Contractors of Woodland Park, Colo.
Survivors include his wife of the home; one son, Tim of Hutchinson; two brothers, Don Pitts and Terry Pitts, both of Sterling; two sisters, Carolyn Plumlee and Elizabeth Pipkin, both of Norman, Okla.; and two grandchildren, Sladen Pitts and Michelle Pitts. He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Kimberly Pitts; and two brothers, Phillip Pitts and Harold Pitts.
Funeral will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the Rev. Kendal Connor officiating . Burial will be at Penwell Gable Cemetery in Hutchinson. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to Hutchinson Firefighters Local 179 or 9-11 Memorial.
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LYONS NEWS
February 4, 2011

Emmylee Joy Strong

Emmylee Joy Strong, five-day-old infant daughter of Alan and Rebecca Strong, died Feb. 1 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. She was born Jan. 27 in McPherson.
Survivors include her parents, Alan M. and Rebecca L. (Rauch) Strong of the home; grandparents, Eric Strong of McPherson, Melanie and Jason Maloun of Paige, Neb., and Marvin, Lori Rauch of Little River and Joleen and Terry Larkin of Lyons; great-grandparents, Raymond and Betty Strong of McPherson, Bonnie and John Ruzicka of Paige, Marvin and Marcine Rauch of Geneseo, Ruth Varney of Lyons and Jeanie Deeds of Little River.
Funeral will be at 2 p.m. Feb. 8 at Stockham Family Funeral Home in McPherson. Burial will be in McPherson Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be given to the Emmylee Joy Strong Memorial Fund in care of the funeral home, 205 N. Chestnut, McPherson, KS, 67460. Personal condolences my be sent to www.stockhamfamily.com.
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LYONS NEWS
February 4, 2011

Aletha Janssen
(Jan M. Byerlee)

Aletha Janssen, later known as Jan M. Byerlee, died Jan. 28. She was born May 6, 1917, at Geneseo, and went on to become an artist and teacher, working with porcelain.
She is survived by her husband, Ed Byerlee; and two children, James Burbidge and Bonnie Burbidge.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are provided by Alternative Burial and Cremation of Oregon
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LYONS NEWS
February 4, 2011

Updated 1/28/11

Dick Wellman
R.I.P.

Richard Gale Wellman of Alden was born in Sterling, Kansas on February 25, 1921, to Edward Chauncey Wellman and Jessie Cochrane Coyle Wellman. He died on Jan. 26 at Hospice House in Hutchinson.
He attended Sterling public schools, graduating with the high school class of 1939. He attended Kansas State University where he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture in 1942.
He joined the United States Navy and during World War II, served on the USS Macomb, a destroyer, in the Arctic, North Atlantic, and the Mediterranean and on the USS Hampton, an attack transport, in the western Pacific, the Philippines and the China Seas. He was honorably discharged with the rank of LTJG.
He returned to rural Rice County and spent the next fifty years farming and ranching. He served as State Representative from 1957 to 1961.
He married Myrtle Emily Belden of Saxman December 20, 1946. She died on September 19, 1985.
He married JoAnn Schmidt Green of Manhattan June 22, 1989. She died April 15, 1998.
Upon retirement, he wrote two books, “Crazy Over Horses” and “White Elk Speaks” and joined the Hole in the Wall Gang. He is a past president of the Native Sons of Kansas and the Rice County Historical Society. He is a former director of the Kansas State Historical Society.
He has been preceded in death by his brother, Edward, and his sisters, Jeannette Branin and Coyle Nill.
He is survived by his children, Emily Wellman of Lawrence, Greg Wellman of Sterling, Brad Wellman of Alden, Alan Wellman of Olathe, Anne Browne of Manhattan, Jim Green of Topeka and Tom Green of Kansas City, Mo.; four grandsons; and five great-grandchildren.
The family will hold a private graveside service at Sterling Community Cemetery. They are planning a public memorial service and details will be announced in the near future.
Memorials are suggested to Kansas State University Center for Basic Cancer Research in care of Birzer Funeral Home of Sterling.
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LYONS NEWS
January 28, 2011

Curtis E. Bennett

Curtis E. Bennett, 75, died Jan. 26, 2011 at Elm Grove Estate, Hutchinson. He was born Dec. 16, 1935 in Sterling, the son of Willard and Blanche Merrill Bennett. The longtime Sterling resident graduated from Sterling High School in 1953 and Sterling College in 1958.
He married Yvonne Burch of Windom on Jan. 19, 1955. She preceded him in death on Nov. 3, 2008.
He worked in coaching, banking, and in the oil industry.
Survivors include: one daughter, Sheri Bennett of Sterling; three sons, Craig and wife Janelle Bennett, of Alden; Brad and wife Laura Bennett of Wheaton, Ill., Jeff and wife Karla Bennett of Sterling; One brother, Lewis Bennett of Sterling; 2 brothers-in-law Leon Burch of Lindsborg, and Merlin Burch of Oklahoma City; 12 grandchldren and 5 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Dwight Bennett.
Funeral service will be 2:30 Monday, Jan. 31 at the United Methodist Church in Sterling. Officating will be Rev. Marvin Ewertt. Interment will be at the Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation will be at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. The family will be present Sun., Jan. 30 from 1:00-6:00 p.m.
Memorial to Sterling College Football or Sterling Country Club in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
January 28, 2011

Updated 1/14/11

Elizabeth M. “Beth” Burdette

Elizabeth M. “Beth” Burdette, 90, died Jan. 7 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born Nov. 19, 1920, at Alden, the daughter of Ernest and Loulie Smith Powell. She married Paul H. Burdette Aug. 18, 1940, at Alden. He died July 27, 1996.
A resident of Hutchinson since 1989, formerly a longtime Lyons resident, she was a graduate of Alden High School and a homemaker. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church of Hutchinson, a former member of Lyons United Methodist Church and Ebenezer United Methodist Church and Gray Lady at Lyons District Hospital.
Survivors include one son, Dennis Burdette of Wichita; one daughter, Kathy and Dean Fritzler of Olathe; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by one sister, Mildred Conduff.
Funeral service was Monday at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial was at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Wesley Towers of Hutchinson in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
January 11, 2011

Updated 1/7/11

MICHAEL CLARENCE “MIKE” SINKLIER

Michael Clarence “Mike Sinklier, 64, of Lyons passed away Jan. 4, 1946, at Hospice House in Hutchinson. He was born Jan. 5 in Monte Vista, Colo., the son of the late Brownie C. and Roxie Ellen (Woods) Sinklier.
Mike graduated in 1964 from high school in Colorado Springs, Colo.
He served in the U.S. Army as a SP4 in the Vietnam War.
He worked as a machinist for Eaton Corporation in Hutchinson, Kansas,  for 30 plus years and retired in 2002.
Survivors include three daughters, Hope Cranford of McPherson, Michelle Piwaronas of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and Robin Heim of Hutchinson; one sister, Ida Marie Shelton of Larned; one brother, Danny Sinklier of Colorado Springs; nine grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was prededed in death by his parents; a brother, Jimmy Sinklier; and son-in-law Ken Hefferon
 Memorial Service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in McPherson at 11:00 a.m. Jan. 8 with Rev. H. Dick Reynolds, Jr. officiating.
Private family graveside services were held at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery Lyons.
Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice House Hutchinson in care of Glidden-Ediger Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid  McPherson, Kansas  67460
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LYONS NEWS
January 7, 2011

ANNA BELLE BERNICE McCREERY

Anna Belle Bernice McCreery passed away in Estes Park Colorado at the Prospect Park Living Center on December 23, 2010 at the age of 98. She was born in rural western Pennsylvania near Portersville on September 14, 1912 to Herman and Mabel (Hamilton) Bauder.
Anna Belle graduated from New Castle High School and New Castle Business College. She was active in both the lst United Presbyterian Church and the 3rd United Presbyterian Church in New Castle.
She married the Rev. William McCreery on March 31, 1940 and moved to Torrington, Wyoming where he was the pastor of the United Presbyterian Church in Torrington.
In 1946, William was named President of Sterling College in Sterling, Kansas. Anna Belle was noted for her entertaining as the wife of the President for 27 years. She was active in PEO (where she has been a member for over 60 years), Sorosis womens club, and the United Presbyterian Church in Sterling.
William and Anna Belle moved to Estes Park, Colorado in 1973 and he served three years as Chancellor for Sterling College, traveling and visiting alumni for the college, prior to retirement. In Estes Park, Anna Belle was active in the Summer Residents Association, PEO, and the Community Church of the Rockies, where she served as an Elder. William and Anna Belle traveled extensively for the next 25 years after moving to Estes Park.
William preceded Anna Belle in death on July 6, 1999. She was also preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her sister, Leona Ralph, of Jupiter Florida, sons, Robert and wife Linda of Estes Park, Colorado; William of Atchison, Kansas; and David and wife Linda of Salem, Oregon; five grandchildren: Heather McCreery, Kimberly Kuo, Virginia Webb, Krista McCreery and Laura McCreery: and nine great-grandchildren: Micah McCreery-Carter, Kylie McCreery-Carter, Olivia Kuo, Aidan Kuo, Laura Kuo and Rachel Kuo , Joshua Webb, Cory Webb, and Sarah Webb.
Memorials should be sent in her Memory to Sterling College in care of Allnutt Funeral Service 1302 Graves Ave. Estes Park, CO 80517 Burial will be at the Columbarium at Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies in Estes Park. A celebration of Anna Belle’s life will be held at a later date. See www.allnutt.com to send a message to Anna Belle’s family.
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LYONS NEWS
January 7, 2011

LILA PORTER

Lila Porter, 95, died Jan. 5 at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. She was born Dec. 16, 1915, at Stettler Alberta, Canada, the daughter of Remmer and Ellen Steele Dykstra. She married Wallace K. Porter Aug. 2, 1933, at Minneola. He died Dec. 27, 1981. A longtime resident of Little River, she was a hommaker. She was a member of Presbyterian Church of Minneola, attendend Little River United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women from 1960 until her death, was a founding member of Rice County Thrift Shop and served on the board for 30 years.
Survivors include four sons, LeRoy Porter of Raymore, Mo., Stanley Porter of Little River, Jim Porter of Lorraine and Dick Porter of Lenora; two daughters, Nancy Burroughs of Joplin, Mo., and Lois Lung of Belleville; 19 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchlidren. She was preceded in death by one son, Jerry Porter; and 10 brothers and sisters.
Funeral will be Jan 8 at United Methodist Church in Little River with pastor Theresa Forshee officiating. Burial will be at Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River. Friends may call from 4 to 7 today at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials are suggested to Sandstone Hts. Nursing Home in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
January 7, 2011

DONALD R. “DON" WRIGHT

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.- Donald R. “Don” Wright, 83, died Dec. 30 at University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque, N.M. He was born June 30, 1927 at Walton, the son of Harvey J. and Elsie Worthington Wright. He married Jennieta Jinx Hoyt Aug. 21, 1949, in Lyons. He was raised in Walton and Marion, lived in Sterling from 1950 to 1955, in Hutchinson since 1955 and part time in Taos, N.M. since 2001 with his wife. He attended school at Marion High School and Emporia State University. He worked for Clark Electric in Sterling, Bostich Stapler and Montgomery Wards in Hutchinson and retired after 30 years as a manufacturing engineer with Cessna Corp. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, a longtime volunteer at Hutchinson Public Library and a former president of Friends of the Library, a volunteer at Hutchinson Art Association, a former chairman and helped organize the first Outdoor Art Fair, was a jewelry craftsman in art fairs throughout Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Missouri and Oklahoma for 35 years, was former president and a member of Cessna Aircraft Employees Club and the past chairman of the annual Hutchinson “Spirit of Christmas” charity. He served in the United States Navy as a minessweeper in China and Japan during World War II.
Survivors include two daughters, Lisa Wright of Taos and Connie Schlelein and husband Bill of Avon, Colo.; two brothers, Bill of Newton and John of Hesston; and two sisters, Alice Wagner of Newton and Virginia Pientka of Hesston. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Harold.
A Celebration of Life service will be at 3 p.m. Jan. 9 at Carey Park Community Building. A private family graveside service will be held in Walton. Friends may call until 9 p.m. today at Elliott Mortuary in Hutchinson. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the many friends who expressed their support and sympathy in so many ways. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Hutchinson Public Library or Hutchinson Art Center.
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LYONS NEWS
January 7, 2011

LESSE MAE SCHMIDT

Lesse Mae Schmidt, 93, died Jan. 3 at Sandstone Hts. Nursing Home in Little River. She was born July 1, 1917, at Aquilla, Texas, the daughter of Romey and Willie Wilson Hall. She married Dr. Alfred Schmidt, December 1946 in Reno, Nev. They later divorced. She lived in Little River from the late 40s to 1975, in Topeka from 1975 to 1992 and retired back to Little River. She was a registered nurse in hospitals in Lyons, Little River, Topeka, Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Corpus Christi. She helped start Rice County Health Department and Sandstone Hts. Nursing Home, serving on the first board. She retired from Veterans Administration Nursing Service in 1984. She was a graduate of Lott, Texas High School and Providence School of Nursing in Waco, Texas. She was a veteran of the U.S. Army Nurse Corp, serving during World War II, and stationed in England, Paris, Belgium and Germany.
She was a member of Congregational Church, Women’s Fellowship and Senior Center, all of Little River.
Survivors include three daughters, Paula and Timothy Donohue of Baldwin City, Kristen and Ed Wilson of Eastsound, Wash., and Kelly Schmidt of Lawrence; one sister, Nell Urban of Houston, Texas; 10 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one son, John Schmidt; and three brothers, Marion, Bud and Babe.
Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 8 at Congregational Church in Little River with pastor Ted Weis officiating. Burial will b at Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Memorials are suggested to Sandstone Hts. Nursing Home in Little River in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
January 7, 2011

Updated 1/4/11

Vann D. Hoffman

Vann D. Hoffman, 45, died Dec. 31 at Great Bend. He was born Aug. 30, 1965, the son of Marvin Hoffman and Barbara Keller Hoffman. A longtime Bushton resident, he was a 1984 graduate of Beliot High School and Central Kansas Technical College, also of Beliot; and a service technician for Manweiler Chevrolet in Hoisington.
Survivors include one daughter, Elicia Mueller of Hunter; one son, Joshua Hoffman of Carlinville, Ill.; mother, Barbara Hoffman of Bushton; father, Marvin Hoffman of Concordia; two brothers, Marcus Hoffman of Salina and Ricky Simpson of Concordia; three sisters, LaVina Simpson of Russell, Sherry Nelson of Hutchinson and Viki Smith of Ft. Smith, Ark. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Darwin and Randy Simpson; grandparents; and one great-niece.
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Jan. 7 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. John Grummon officiating. A private family inurnment will be in the Salem United Methodist Church Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Bushton First Responders and Fire Department, in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
January 4, 2011

Joan Lillian England

Joan Lillian England, 85, died Jan. 2 at Presbyterian Manor in Emporia. She was born Sept. 21, 1925, at Alden, the daughter of Carl D. and Jessie Lillian Stryler Caldwell. She married Raymond England Nov. 9, 1942, at Ratone, NM. A lifelong resident of Lyons, she was retired from Lyons Manufacturing Company, a campground host for Silverwood, Calif., and a former cook at Waterloo schools.
She was a member of United Methodist Church, a lifetime member of VFW Auxiliary and Liar’s Fishing Club, all of Lyons; a lifetime member of Good Sam’s Campers, Salt Shakers Camping Club, regional director of National Campers Association; taught Weight Watchers for many years; Auxiliary of UTU Lodge No. 391 of Emporia.
Survivors include one son, Billy J. and Patricia England of Emporia; one daughter, Conne Rae and Forest Hayes of Rialto, Calif; seven grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers; infant Ray W. Caldwell and Clifford Caldwell; and two sisters, Edna Carlson and Mary Clark.
Graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Jan. 10 at Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons with Robert Friesen officiating. Visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Jan. 9 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Emporia Presbyterian Manor in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
January 4, 2011

Lesse Schmidt

Lesse Schmidt, 93, died Jan. 3 at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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LYONS NEWS
January 4, 2011

Updated 12/31/10

Charles “Chuck” P. Rowland

Charles “Chuck” P. Rowland, 69, died Dec. 29 at HCA Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. He was born Feb. 28, 1941, at Washington, the son of Chester and Harriet Molby Rowland. He married Janiece Fair Feb. 3, 1968, at Alden. An Alden resident since 1984, formerly of Hudson and Lewis, he was president and CEO of Alden State Bank and a graduate of Washington High School and Kansas State University.
He was a member of First Baptist Church of Alden, a member and past director of Kansas Bankers Association, past president of Golden Belt Bankers Association, Sterling Country Club and a former Alden City Councilman.
Survivors include his wife of the home; two sons, Todd and Jill Rowland of Sterling and Jarrod and Christina Rowland of Sterling; four grandchildren, Alley, Grace, Kate and Lacey Rowland; and mother-in-law, Alma Fair of Alden. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Donald Rowland.
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Jan. 3 at United Presbyterian Church in Sterling with the Rev. Bob Bethell officiating. A private family commital will be at Alden Valley Cemetery in Alden. Friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. Jan. 2 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Memorials are suggested to Alden First Baptist Church, Rotary Club Community Chest or Sterling Country Club, all in care of the funeral home.
LYONS NEWS
December 31, 2010
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Millard L. Lindsay

Millard L. Lindsay, 80, died Dec. 29 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was born Aug. 14, 1930, at El Dorado, the son of Lodia and Hazel Lysle Parker Lindsay. He married Virginia Lorraine Prater Aug. 7, 1950, at Potwin. A resident of Lyons for 12 years, formerly of Hutchinson, Hill City, Potwin, Garden City and Cheyenne, Wyo., he was a production foreman for Cities Service Oil Co., and Helmerich and Payne and was a 1948 graduate of Potwin High School. He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran, having served in the Korean War.
Lindsay was a member of Crossroads Christian Church of Hutchinson, Masonic Lodge of Towanda and a former city councilman of Potwin and Hill City.
Survivors include his wife of the home; two sons, Mike Lindsay of Lyons and Scott and Charlene Lindsay of Ft. Collins, Colo.; one son-in-law, David Roth of Lyons; one brother, Richard W. Lindsay of Ardmore, Okla; two sisters, Elaine Whiteside of Ardmore, Okla., and Elizabeth Taylor of De Soto; five grandchildren, Kendra Kanduch, Ashley Nease, Kalie Leiker, Megan Lindsay and Leah Roth; and one great-grandchild, Aiden Nease. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Dana Roth. Funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Jan. 3 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Burial will be at Lyons Muncipal Cemetery with military honors. Memorials are suggested to Dana Roth scholarship fund in care of the funeral home.
LYONS NEWS
December 31, 2010
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Updated 12/21/10

ERMA LEE DAY

Erma Lee Day, 90, died Dec. 16 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was born Nov. 5, 1920, at Bartlesville, Okla., the daughter of Earl Lee and Bessie Chaney Frakes. She married William T. “Bill” Day June 16, 1940, at Mt. Pleasant, Mich. He died March 28, 1992. A Sterling resident since 1992, she was retired from Continental Telephone Company in 1984 and a graduate of ElDorado High School. She was a member of United Methodist Church, UMW and Order of Eastern Star, all of Sterling.
Survivors include one son, Daniel Lee and wife Sharon Hoelscher Day of Tempe, Ariz. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Thelma Ray Herr and Eunice Mae Naus.
Graveside service was held Monday at Sterling Community Cemetary with the Rev. Marvin Ewertt officiating. Memorials are suggested to Friends of Animals in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
December 21, 2010

STEVEN KURTH

Steven Kurth, 68, died Dec. 15 at his home. He was born July 31, 1942, in Marshalltown, the son of Merlin and Henrietta (Woolard)Kurth. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in the Vietnam War and was a retired oilfield worker.
Surviors include one daughter, Shelly Kurth of Wichita; two grandchildren, Preston and Faith; two brothers, James Kurth of Tama, Ala., and Mike Kurth and wife Wava of Marshalltown; one sister, Barb L. Ohrt of Marshalltown; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one son, Terry Kurth.
Private family inurnment will take place at a later date in Marshalltown. Funeral arrangements are in care of Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or keithley@ruralaltel.net.
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LYONS NEWS
December 21, 2010

Updated 12/17/10

Eula W. Reynolds

Eula W. Reynolds, 79, died Dec. 14 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was born June 10, 1931, at Severy, the daughter of Frank and Gladys Ellwood Ludwick. She married Brownlee David Reynolds Oct. 31, 1948, at Alden. He died. Dec. 7, 1979. A resident of Sterling since 1967, formerly of Lyons, Little River and Alden, she was a homemaker and a former employee of Farmers State Bank in Sterling.
She was a member of Faith Baptist Church, Hutchinson VFW and American Legion Ladies Auxiliary. She was also a member of the Sterling Bowling League.
Survivors include four sons, David and Marilyn Reynolds of Sterling, Chuck and Deb Reynolds of Biloxi, Miss., Curt and Patty Reynolds of Great Bend and Randy and Teri Reynolds of Olathe; three daughters, Deb and Don Oden of Alden, Belinda and John Anschutz of Sterling and Lesa and Teresa Reynolds of Wichita; 21 grandchlidren; and 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one brother, Sheldon Ludwick; one sister, Dixie Goodwin and one granddaughter, Rochelle Huffman.
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Dec. 18 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the Rev. Mel Parrott officiating. Burial will be in Alden Valley Cemetery. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to Hospice Care of Kansas or donor’s choice, in care of the funeral home.

Elma ‘Jean’ Lovaas

Elma “Jean” Lovaas, 75, died Dec. 12 at Woodhaven Care Center in Ellinwood. She was born Aug. 3, 1935, at Elkhart, the son of Charles and Ruby Bitner Brady. She married Eldon E. Lovaas June 30, 1978, at Kalispell, Mont. He died Jan. 17, 1996. A resident of Raymond since 2003, formerly of Lakeside, Mont., she was a retired K-Mart associate and a graduate of Leoti High School.
Survivors include one son, Steven D. Snider of Merriam; three daughters, Pamela S. Blum of Olathe, Margaret A. Zamora of Wichita and Marcia E. Schott of Austin, Texas; three brothers, Francis Brady and Gary Brady, both of Chase and Charles Brady of Valley Center; one sister, Anita Sheridan of Raymond; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one brother, Melvin Brady. A private family burial is planned at Glacier Memorial Gardens in Kalispell, Mont. Memorials are suggested to Raymond Community Development, in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Birzer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
LYONS NEWS
December 14, 2010

Updated 12/7/10

BILLY WAYNE WINGRAVE

Billy Wayne Wingrave, 51, died Dec. 2 at Greenwood County Hospital. He was born June 30, 1959, in Eureka, the son of William L. and Ann (Wohlford) Wingrave. A resident of the Severy/Fall River area, he attended West Elk schools, hauled hay in the Fall River/Severy area, was employed by the Moline Bar, was a janitor for the West Elk School District before moving back to Eureka and was a document shredder for New Beginnings.
Survivors include his mother, Ann Yocham of Hutchinson; and three sisters, Pam Gee of Lyons, Rhonda Wingrave of Newton and Marla Rasmussen of Haviland.
Funeral services were Monday at Koup Family Funeral Home in Eureka with the Rev. Larry Moore officiating. Burial was at Severy Cemetery.
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LYONS NEWS December 7, 2010

DIXIE L. LINK

Dixie L. Link, 78, died Dec. 2 at Clare Bridge Assisted Living in Wichita. She was born Aug. 5, 1932, in Hutchinson, the daughter of Lester and Bessie Erdman Simpson. She married Paul Maurice Link Sept. 14, 1950 at Chase. He died Jan. 14, 2001. A resident of Wichita for the past two years, formerly of Salina, Hays, Plainville,Henderson Nev. and Spearville, she was a homemaker.
Survivors include one son, Randy Link of Wichita; two daughters, Vicki Black of Wichita and Paula Link of Salina; two sisters, Shirley Hiller of Janesville, Iowa, and Sondra Gross of Manhattan; nine grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Paul and son Stephen.
Funeral was Monday at Kimple Funeral Home in Ellinwood with Father Charles Mazouch officiating. Burial was at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS December 7, 2010

VIRGINA FAYE EVANS SHOWALTER

Virginia Faye Evans Showalter, 77, died Dec. 3 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born Jan. 1, 1933, at Hutchinson, the daughter of Obie and Ruby Loughridge Evans. She married Earl F. Showalter May 3, 1951, at Hooker, Okla. A lifetime Lyons resident, she was a 1950 graduate of Lyons High School and was a retired Rice County Court Clerk in 2000 with more than 30 years of service. She was a member of First Baptist Church, VFW Ladies Auxiliary and Past Grand Chief of Pythian, all of Lyons. Survivors include her husband, Earl of the home; one daughter, Cathy and Pat Briggs of Lyons; two sons, Joe and Pam Showalter and Mark and Alicia Showalter, all of Lyons; grandchildren, Melissa Oden and Mike Briggs, Jeremy and Kristi Showalter, Justin and Ashley Showalter and Matt and Hollie Ankerholz, all of Lyons; Heidi Showalter of Lorraine, Heather and Kyle Hardesty of Bavaria and Nicole and Irwin Sander of Hutchinson; and great-grandchidren, Joseph Briggs, Wyatt Showalter, Deacon Showalter, Greta Showalter, all of Lyons; Raynee and Taelor Hardesty of Bavaria; Landon and Shealeigh Ankerholz of Lyons and Preston and Hadley Sander of Hutchinson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Obie Evans, Ruby Peck and Ralph Wedel; two brothers, Billie and Joseph Evans; and one daughter-in-law, LouAnn Showalter.
Funeral service will be 2 p.m. today at First Baptist Church in Lyons with the Rev. Joel Grizzle officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Rice County Relay for Life in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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LYONS NEWS December 7, 2010

GLADYS G. BOY STARR

Gladys G. Boy Starr, 82, died Dec. 5 at her residence in Raymond. Born Dec. 18, 1927, in Raymond, she was the daughter of Adolph and Nora Marie Gordon Boy. She married H. Allison Starr Dec. 20, 1946, at Colby. He died July 3, 1981. A lifetime Raymond resident, she was a graduate of Raymond High School and attended Kansas State University. She was a homemaker.
She was a member of Raymond Baptist Church and Sterling Bowling Association.
Survivors include four sons, Keith and Esther Starr of Beeville, Texas, Steven and Sue Starr of Denver City, Texas, Ronald Starr of Raymond and Danny and Kara Starr of Chase; grandchildren, Shawn and Malena Starr, Stacey Starr, Cory Starr, Travis and Lisa Starr and Kaci and Curtis Kelso; Great-grandchildren, Rylee Starr, Taylor Starr, Marcus Starr and Emma Kelso. She was preceded in death by one brother, Lawrence Boy.
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the Rev. Bob Bethell officiating. Burial will be at Raymond Hilltop Cemetery in Raymond. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home in Sterling with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to American Diabetes Association in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS December 7, 2010

______________________________________________

Updated 12/3/10

CLAUDE “BILL” MCDONALD

Claude “Bill” McDonald, 92, died Nov. 30 at his residence in Lyons. He was born Jan. 16, 1918, at Hugo, Colo., the son of Claude Ray and Gertrude Elizabeth Wiebrecht McDonald. He married Florence O’Neill Jan. 26, 1952, at McPherson. She died Aug. 2, 2009. Longtime resident of Lyons, formerly of Georgetown, Texas, and Wichita, he was a former employee of Texas Instruments and Boeing Aircraft and a U.S. Army veteran, having served during World War II.
He was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council No. 7422, Fourth Degree Quivira Council; and Veterans Foreign Wars Post No. 3184, all of Lyons.
Survivors include numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by a brother and a sister.
Funeral mass will be at 10:30 a.m. today at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Lyons with Father Daniel Lorimer officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons with military honors by Ft. Riley. Memorials are suggested to the church or Hospice and Home Health of Reno County in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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LYONS NEWS
December 3, 2010

MARY LU MCNUTT

Mary Lu McNutt, 67, died Nov. 30 at Hospice House in Hutchinson. She was born Aub. 13, 1943, at Chase, the daughter of Ralph B. and Violet Ilene Wolfe McNutt Sr. A resident of Sterling, she was a 1961 graduate of Sterling High School, Salt City Business College in Hutchinson and worked 46 years for Farmers Coop Union in Sterling.
Survivors include three sisters, Linda McNutt of Sterling, Teri Eskandari of Phoenix, Ariz., and Carole Bengston of Inman; one brother, Earl McNutt of Sterling; seven nieces; and five nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and five brothers, Larry McNutt, Ralph McNutt Jr., Jerry McNutt, Russell Mc Nutt and Tom MuNutt.
Funeral will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the Rev. Robert Friesen officiating. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery. Friends may call from 9 a.m. to service time Saturday at the funeral home. The casket will remain closed. Memorials are suggested to Center for Basic Care Research KSU in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
December 3, 2010

MARCELLA ANGELINE STITT

Funeral for Marcella Angeline Stitt, 94, who died Nov. 28 at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson will be at 2 p.m. Saturday Dec. 11 at United Methodist Church in Ellinwood wih the Rev. John Schmitt offficiating followed by burial at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery.
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LYONS NEWS
December 3, 2010

_______________________________________________
Updated 11/20/10

Lain Tucker Hinderliter

Four month old Lain Tucker Hinderliter died on Nov. 25, 2010 at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita.
He was born July 22, 2010 in Lyons. He lived in Chase with his parents Steve L. and Kristy D. Severn Hinderliter.
He is survived by his parents Steve and Kristy, brothers, Lance and Layd’n Hinderliter of the home, Syrus Halbert of Lyons; one sister Lelisa Hinderliter of the home, grandparents, Sissy Alexander, Scammon; Dan Alexander, Neosho, Mo., Lynn Hinderliter, Lyons; aunts and uncles, Leslie Cox, Brandon Hunter, both of Carl Junction, Mo., Bill and Deanna Hinderliter, Bob Hinderliter all of Frontenac, Tom and Gail Hinderliter, Lindsborg, and Lisa Hinderliter, McPherson.
He was preceded in death by grandfather, Tom Hinderliter, great-grandmother, Carol Carr, great-grandparents, Roy and Hazel Shoemaker.
The funeral service is scheduled Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2010 at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons.
Memorials can be sent to the Lain Hinderliter Memorial Fund.
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LYONS NEWS November 30, 2010

Marcella Angeline Stitt

Marcelle Angeline Stitt, 94, died Nov. 28 at Wesley Towers in Hutchihnson. She was born Aug. 23, 1916, at Mitchell, the daughter of Fred and Grace Troyer Nodurft.
She married Sam C. Stitt Dec. 23, 1938, at Topeka. He died April 3, 1991. A Hutchinson resident since 2001, formerly of Lyons, Ellinwood, LeRoy and Sterling upon retiring to Kansas after World War II, she was a Latin teacher at Ellinwood High School for 20 years, retiring in 1976; National Board of Junior Classical League; and President of Classical Association of Kansas and Western Missouri in the 1960s. She won the alumni award at Sterling College in 1977, was awarded the U.S. Fulbright Scholarship to study Latin in Rome, Italy in 1962, was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Teaching Sorority, was a graduate of Sterling College and received her master’s degree in Latin from the University of Kansas.
She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church of Hutchinson; Eastern Star and Modern Literature Club, both of Ellinwood; was a church organist for 50 years and lay speaker for United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women and Retired Teachers of Barton County.
Survivors include one son, Sam C. Stitt of Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas; one daughter, Marcia Wheatcroft of Winfield; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchilden. She was preceded in death by one brother, Cecil Nodurft. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at the United Methodist Church in Ellinwood with the Rev. John Schmitt officiation. Burial will be at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. There will be no viewing as the body was donated to KU Medical Center for educational research. Memorials are suggested to Ellinwood School and Library Foundation; Sterling College or Good Samaritan Fund at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson.
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LYONS NEWS November 30, 2010

Orla J. Herzog

Orla J. Herzog, 92, died Nov. 24, 2010 at Good Samaritan Center, Lyons. She was born Oct. 18, 1918 in rural Lorraine, the daughter of Albert and Ella Kruse Janzen. She was a graduate of Hollyrood High School, and married Franklin Herzog on October 4, 1940 in Lorraine. A resident of Lyons since 1944, she worked at Howard’s and Ruth’s both of Lyons. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, the American Legion Auxilliary and a former Girl Scout Assistant.
Her husband preceded her in death on February 4, 1974.
She is survived by a daughter, Jeraldine “Jeri” Smith, Newton; a brother, Loren Janzen, Scott City, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brother, Keith Janzen, and her sister, Alberta Schreck.
The funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, 2010 at First Presbyterian Church, Lyons, Rev. Tom Robson officiated.
Interment was at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Memorials to First Presbyterian Church, in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS November 30, 2010

John W. Mays

John W. Mays died Nov. 26, 2010 at Rice County District Hospital in Lyons.
He was born February 20, 1912 in Olney, Illinois, the son of Warren and Catherine Faris Mays. He married Lucille F. Harts of Ellsworth, Kansas on August 27, 1936. She preceded him in death on July 21, 2008.
A resident of Lyons since 1955, he was a former teacher and principal at Geneseo. He also worked at Continental Oil Co., and was the Administrator of Rice County District Hospital for 18 years.
He was graduate of Ft. Hays State University, a member and elder of First Presbyterian Church of Lyons. He was a board member of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and President of Continental Credit Union.
Survivors include: one son, John W. Mays II, Sausalito, Calif., three daughters, Dr. Kala M. Stroup, Lawrence, Gloria McCord, Sierra Madre, Calif., Rev. Katharine Harts, San Rafael, Calif.,; six grandchildren, Megan Sappington, Marc McCord, Chandler Stroup, Jud McCord, Hannah Turner-Harts and Mikayla Mays; four great-grandchildren, Annika Sappington, Skylar Sappington, Alexis Stroup, and Sydney Stroup.
He was preceded in death by three sisters.
The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010 at First Presbyterian Church of Lyons, Rev. Katharine Harts officiating. Interment will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2010 at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons with family present.
Memorials to First Presbyterian Church, Rice Co. District Hospital or Hospice Care of Kansas, in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS November 30, 2010

Updated 11/24/10

RICHARD H. HOGG

Additions to the obiturary on Richard H. Hogg, 90, who died Nov. 10 at Rice County District Hospital include survivors: three grandchldren; three great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren, Kathy Dawson of Chicago, Ill., and David Dawson of Independence, Mo.; and three step-great-grandchildren; and his close fishing buddies, Bill Dewitt of Lindsborg and Bob Jellison of Hutchinson.
Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons was in charge of arrangements.
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LYONS NEWS
November 23, 2010

Leota Irene (Wikoff) McWilliam

Leota Irene (Wikoff) McWilliam, 97, died November 13, 2010 at Mennonite Friendship Manor, in South Hutchinson. She was born January 13, 1913 in rural Rice Co. the daughter of Charles Henderson Wikoff and Pearl Mae West Wikoff.
She graduated Geneseo High School in 1931, and returned to Rice Co. in 1996 when she moved to Lyons from Emporia. She was a retired farmer and homemaker and a former motel owner.
January 27, 1934 was the date of her marriage to John T. McWilliam in Frederick. She was a member of the United Methodist Church, Lyons and was a former Sweet Adeline at Emporia.
Survivors include: two sons, Vance and his wife Pam McWilliam, Arlington; Marvin McWilliam, Lyons; one daughter, Betty Joan and her husband Myron Fahrenwald, Conde, South Dakota; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brothers Lawrence and Everett and sisters, Eleanor, Fern, Pearl, and Grace.
Funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 A.M. Thursday, November 18, at United Methodist Church, Lyons. Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett will be officiating. Interment will be at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery, Lyons, KS. Visitation is 2:00 to 7:00 P.M. Wednesday, Nov. 17 at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons. Memorials to United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
November 12, 2010

Lynn Robert Harrison

Lynn Robert Harrison, 68, died November 10, 2010 at his home in Hutchinson. He was born February 1, 1942 in Sterling, the son of Robert W. and Leota E. Gossman Harrison.
Formerly of Sterling, he was a longtime Hutchinson resident . He worked in construction most of his life following graduation from Nickerson High School in 1960. He was a U.S. Army Veteran. He served in the Vietnam War and received the Purple Heart.
He was a member of the Midland United Church of Christ in rural Sterling, and the American Legion of Hutchinson.
His parents preceded him in death. Survivors include: three sisters, Betty E. Harrison, Sterling; Sandra M. Sexton, Anaheim, Calif.; Reta K. Graber, Hutchinson; 2 nieces and 1 nephew.
Funeral service is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 19 at the Sterling Community Cemetery. Interment will be with military honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard.
Memorial may be sent to Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.
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LYONS NEWS
November 12, 2010

____________________________________________

Updated 11/16/10

Leota Irene (Wikoff) McWilliam

Leota Irene (Wikoff) McWilliam, 97, died November 13, 2010 at Mennonite Friendship Manor, in South Hutchinson. She was born January 13, 1913 in rural Rice Co. the daughter of Charles Henderson Wikoff and Pearl Mae West Wikoff.
She graduated Geneseo High School in 1931, and returned to Rice Co. in 1996 when she moved to Lyons from Emporia. She was a retired farmer and homemaker and a former motel owner.
January 27, 1934 was the date of her marriage to John T. McWilliam in Frederick. She was a member of the United Methodist Church, Lyons and was a former Sweet Adeline at Emporia.
Survivors include: two sons, Vance and his wife Pam McWilliam, Arlington; Marvin McWilliam, Lyons; one daughter, Betty Joan and her husband Myron Fahrenwald, Conde, South Dakota; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brothers Lawrence and Everett and sisters, Eleanor, Fern, Pearl, and Grace.
Funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 A.M. Thursday, November 18, at United Methodist Church, Lyons. Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett will be officiating. Interment will be at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery, Lyons, KS. Visitation is 2:00 to 7:00 P.M. Wednesday, Nov. 17 at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons. Memorials to United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
November 12, 2010

Lynn Robert Harrison

Lynn Robert Harrison, 68, died November 10, 2010 at his home in Hutchinson. He was born February 1, 1942 in Sterling, the son of Robert W. and Leota E. Gossman Harrison.
Formerly of Sterling, he was a longtime Hutchinson resident . He worked in construction most of his life following graduation from Nickerson High School in 1960. He was a U.S. Army Veteran. He served in the Vietnam War and received the Purple Heart.
He was a member of the Midland United Church of Christ in rural Sterling, and the American Legion of Hutchinson.
His parents preceded him in death. Survivors include: three sisters, Betty E. Harrison, Sterling; Sandra M. Sexton, Anaheim, Calif.; Reta K. Graber, Hutchinson; 2 nieces and 1 nephew.
Funeral service is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 19 at the Sterling Community Cemetery. Interment will be with military honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard.
Memorial may be sent to Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.
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LYONS NEWS
November 12, 2010

Updated 11/12/10

Richard H. Hogg

Richard H. Hogg, 90, died November 10, 2010 at Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. He was born August 9, 1920 in Denison, Texas, the son of Richard Harness and Leola Hargis Hogg.
He married Ada Fern Bitter on August 2, 1943 in Protection, Kansas. She preceded him in death on January 17, 1980. The couple moved to Lyons from Ellinwood in 1965.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served during World War II in an armored unit with Three Star General George Patton in Europe. He was an oil derrick driller from 1941 to 1980, and a custom harvester for 21 years.
He was a member of the Christian Church of Texarkana, Texas, and a lifetime member of the VFW and American Legion of Lyons.
Survivors include three sons, Terry Lee and Glenda Hogg, Wichita; Jerry Dee Hogg, Stafford; Mickey Ray and Phyllis Hogg, Lyons; one daughter, Judy Kay and Hank Cox, Hutchinson; 2 daughters-in-laws and caregiver, Gwen Hogg, Lyons; Shelley Hogg, McPherson; 2 brothers, Jack and Gwen Hogg, Texarkana, TX; Roy and Jane Hogg, Willspoint, TX; 3 sisters, Emily Scott, Wake Village, TX; Barbara and Charles Stokes, Dallas, TX; Linda and David Gaither, Texarkana, TX; seven grandchildren, Jeremy and Josh Hogg, Caleb Dawson-Hogg, Natasha Dawson-Hogg, Tanya Kay Cox, David Dawson, and Kathy Dawson; 3 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by sons Bobby Duane Hogg, (infant) Richard Glenn Hogg; brother, Bill Hogg; and sister Ruth Martin.
Funeral service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 13, 2010 at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons, with military honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard, with Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett officiating.
Interment will be at LaCrossse Cemetery, LaCrosse. Memorials to Lyons VFW or Rice County Council on Aging in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
November 12, 2010

Updated 11/9/10

YOLANDA DONNELLY

Yolanda Donnelly of Little River, a former Lyons business owner and operator, died Oct. 18 of post-polio complications and breast cancer. A memorial service was held Oct.30 at the Jehovah Witness Hall in McPherson.
She and her husband, Tom, operated Yolanda’s in Lyons. It offered sales and service of floor coverings and draperies. She was head librarian at the Little River Community Library.
Survivors include her husband of the home; a daughter, Sheilah; and her mother, Elrene Stowe of McPherson.
Memorials may be made to the Little River Community Library. Cards can be sent to Tom Donnelly at Box 157, Little River, Ks., 67457 or her mother, at 1451 Grimes, McPherson, KS, 67460
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LYONS NEWS
November 8, 2010

Updated 11/5/10

ROY V. POTTS

Roy V. Potts, 88, died Nov. 4 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was born April 27, 1922, in Southfield, Okla., the son of John Frederick and Rachael C. Casswell Potts. He married Ruth Blakley Feb. 2, 1947, in Lyons. She died Aug. 24, 2003. A longtime Lyons resident, moving to Hutchinson in February 2009, he was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in World War II and was owner of Potts Electric Co of Lyons from 1964 to 2006.
He was a member of United Methodist Church, Bon Ami Sunday School Class, a former Rotary Club member, former Odd Fellows member and Kansas Odd Fellows Eye Bank Board and a former board member of Haiti Love and Faith. Survivors include one son, Paul of Hutchinson; five sisters, June Bell of Wichita, Peggy Pricket and Annabelle Baker, both of Stillwater, Okla., Mary Stanton of Warrior, Ala., and Betsy Jane Muro of Joplin, Mo.; two brothers, Jerry Potts and Bill Potts; two grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, John Paul Potts and Eugene Frederick Potts.
Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Nov. 8 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons with honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Nov. 7 at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to Star of Hope (Haiti, Love & Faith) in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
November 5, 2010

Updated 10/29/10

JOAN S.WEDEL

NEWTON - Joan Stevens Wedel, 77, died Oct 18 at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita. She was born Aug. 24, 1933, in Laverne, Okla., to Roy E. and Elizabeth Shelinbarger Naegle nee Grimes.
She married William E. Stevens May 8, 1954 in Garnett. He died Aug. 15, 1994. On May 21, 1997, she married LaVern Wedel in Eureka Springs, Ark.
Wedel was an English, Speech, Drama, Forensics and Debate teacher/coach at many elementary and secondary schools across Kansas including Fowler, Garnett, McPherson, Lyons, Shallow Water, Lindsborg, Salina, Satanta and Moundridge.
Surviors include one daughter, Dawna R. Stevens, Melbourne, Fla.; sons, Derek R. Stevens, Temple Terrace, Fla., Michael T. Griffin, Cherryvale; one sister, Deborah R. Hobbs, Wichita; one brother, Roy E. Shelinbarger, Haysville; sons, Virgil Wedel, Moundridge, Tracy Wedel, Newton, and Terry Wedel, Rogers, Ark. ten grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, William E. Stevens; and two daughters, Denise R. Stevens and Debra Gillmore.
Funeral service will be 2 p.m. today at First Church of the Nazarene in Newton, followed by a 4:30 committal service at First Mennonite Church Cemetery, Moundridge. Memorials may be given to the First Church of the Nazarene in care of Moundridge Funeral Home.
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LYONS NEWS
October 29, 2010

Updated 10/26/10

GWEN D. WYATT

Gwen D. Wyatt, 46, died Oct. 23 at Lyons. She was born Aug. 23, 1964, at Lyons, the daughter of Lyle K. and Dixie A. Bemis Wyatt. She married David Knight. They later divorced. A lifetime resident of Lyons, she was a homemaker.
Survivors include a companion, Jennifer Zorn of Lyons; two brothers, James Wyatt and Bill Wyatt, both of Lyons; four sisters, Treva Kintigh of Lyons, Lila Hunt of Great Bend, Penny Caldwell of Meriden and Connie Kocher of Lyons; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Ron DeVore officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetary. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home with family present from 5 to 7 p.m.
Memorials are suggested to Ronald McDonald House in Wichita in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
October 26, 2010

LAWRENCE EDGAR WEBB

Lawrence Edgar Webb, 68, died Oct. 24 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. He was born Aug. 21, 1942, in Hutchinson, the son of Lawrence Amos and Hazel Anderson Webb. He married Virginia Hill Aug. 7, 1965. They later divorced. A Sterling resident and formerly of Hutchinson, he was a retired locksmith for Klein Key of Sterling, a planner for Northrop Grumman of California and a machinist for Cessna in Hutchinson. He was a graduate of Hutchinson High School.
Survivors include two sons, Christopher Webb of Wellington, Colo., and Jason Webb of Johnstown, Colo.; mother, Hazel Connery of Hutchinson; siblings, Jerry Webb of Hutchinson, Vicki Webb of Hawthorne, Calif.; Nancy Marceline of Williams, Ariz., and Tina Tillman of Morris Hill, Ind.; and three grandchildren, Donovan Webb, Cassidy Webb and Eliza Webb. He was preceded in death by his father.
There will be no formal funeral service. A private family gathering will take place at a later date. Memorials are suggested to Friends of Animals in care of Birzer Funeral Home of Lyons.
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LYONS NEWS
October 26, 2010

PEARL M. LAKE

Pearl M. Lake died Oct. 21, 2010 at Sandstone Heights, Little River. She was born Oct. 22, 1918 to Thomas J. and Zora Frick Murphy in Rosalia, KS. Pearl was a homemaker and certified nurse assistant. On July 7, 1951 she married Clarence W. Lake in Hutchinson. He died July 19, 1973. Pearl is preceded in death by her parents and 7 brothers. Survivors include a sister Ruth Varney and many nieces and nephews. Memorial service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, Oct 26, 2010 at Elliott Mortuary with Pastor Ted Weis presiding. Cremation has taken place. Memorials may me made to the Sandstone Heights Residents Activity Fund. Please visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a personal message for the family.

LYONS NEWS
October 26, 2010

Updated 10/22/10

LEONARD L. GALLIART

Leonard L. Galliart, 94, died Oct. 18 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was born April 14, 1916, at Ellinwood, the son of David and Fronia Kindsvater Galliart.
He married Arlene Freeman June, 1946, at Lyons. She died Feb. 10, 2004. A longtime Lyons resident, he was co-owner of Galliart Food Mart of Lyons; worked in sales for Pepsi Cola; Hillsboro Dairy, a machinist for Cessna/Krause in Hutchinson and Lyons Manufacturing. He was a 1934 graduate of Ellinwood High School and a U.S. Air Force veteran, having served in World War II.
He was a charter member of Grace Lutheran Church, an Elder, treasurer, usher and lifetime member of Aid Association for Lutherans; American Legion of Lyons, former Lyons bowling league and was the oldest cancer survivor for Relay for Life in 2010.
Survivors include four sons, David Galliart of Winfield, Michael Galliart of Lenexa, Randy Galliart of Chase and Shawn Galliart of Hutchinson; four daughters, Michele McKoy of Pittsburg, Renee’ Sutton of Lyons, Denise Thiessen of McPherson and Charisse Shepherd of Lyons; one sister, Leota Soeken of Lyons; 23 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 3 great-grandchildren.
Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the church with the Rev. Mike Herzberg officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery with military honors by the Air Force. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to Leadership Development for Lutheran Education or Relay for Life, both in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
October 22, 2010

WANDA J. SHARP

Wanda J. Sharp, 82, died Oct. 18 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was born June 9, 1928, at Bassett, Neb., she was the daughter of Glyde and Mae Kinder Davis. She married Clarence L. Sharp Jan. 5, 1945, at Bassett. He died Nov. 26, 2007. A longtime Lyons resident, she was a homemaker. She attended the Baptist Church.
Survivors include one son, Dan and Kathy Sharp of Bossier City, La.; one daughter, Lettie and Ryan Adam of Hutchinson; one brother, Glyde G. Davis Jr. of Thornton, Colo., three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
A private graveside service will be held at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Joel Grizzle officiating. Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons is in charge of arrangements.
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LYONS NEWS
October 22, 2010

Updated 10/19/10

VIRGINIA L. PANGBURN BAYER

Virginia L. Pangburn Bayer, 79, died Oct. 17 at Good Samaritan Center in Lyons. She was born Sept. 3, 1931, in Lyons, the daughter of Virgil L. and Vera P. Misner Pangburn. She married Merrill D. Bayer Nov. 8, 1953, at Lyons. He died Nov. 13, 2003. A lifetime Rice County resident, she was a farm wife, a secretary at Conoco Oil Co. in Lyons, a former Rice County probate judge and an amateur anthropologist.
She was a member of Immanuel United Church of Christ in Ellinwood, Eastern Star No. 32 in Lyons, Daughters of the Revolution, a member of Worthwhile Club in Lyons and a graduate of Sterling College.
Survivors include two brothers, Donald E. Pangburn of Lyons and Gerould W. Pangburn of Staunton, Virginia; four nephews; and one niece.
Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the church with the Rev. Larry Young officiating. Burial will be at Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. Friends may call from 1 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the church or Good Samaritan Center in Lyons, both in care of the funeral home.
Lyons News
October 19, 2010

ELIZABETH BLACKWELL SAUNDERS PLUMMER

Elizabeth Blackwell Saunders Plummer, 85, died Oct. 16 at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. She was born April 4, 1925, at Lunenburg County, Vir., the daughter of Thomas Franklin and Susie Gee Saunders. A resident of Lyons since 1952, she was a retired registered nurse serving as director of nursing at Lyons District Hospital, a graduate of Danieltown High School in Virginia and received her nursing degree from Johnston Willis Hospital in Richmond, Vir.
She was a member of United Methodist Church, Worthwhile Club, Daughters American Revolution, former Lyons Public Library board member, former Rice County Historical Society board member and former Pallas Club, all of Lyons.
Survivors include one son, Ret. Col. John Franklin Plummer Jr., of Chapel Hill, NC; one daughter, Dr. Saundra Ellis Plummer of Canberra, Australia; one brother, Thomas Saunders of Richmond; four sisters, Margaret Saunders Gregory of Richmond, Virginia Saunders Crump of Woodbridge, Virginia, Pattie Saunders Vineyard of Charlottesville, Virginia., and Frances Saunders Nave of Richmond; and five grandchildren, Tom, Rachel, Rebecca, Matt and Sarah; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, James Saunders; and two sisters, Etta Saunders Elliott and Anne Saunders Siddons.
Funeral will be at 11 a.m. today at the church with the Rev. Dr. Quinten Bennett officiating. Burial will be at Kenbridge Cemetery in Kenbridge, Vir. Memorials are suggested to Lyons Public Library or United Methodist Church, both in care of Birzer Funearl Home in Lyons.
Lyons News
October 19, 2010

JANICE C. PETERSON

Janice C. Peterson, 76, died Oct. 16 at her residence in rural Chase. She was born April 12, 1934, at Lyons, the daughter of Amos R. and Helen Martha Long Foote. She married Marion F. Peterson May 8, 1954, at Chase. He died March 19, 2003. A lifetime resident of Chase, she was a retired registered nurse, having worked at Lyons District Hospital and Lyons Medical Center, was a 1952 graduate of Chase High School and a 1955 graduate of the Wesley Hospital Nursing Program.
She as a member of Community Presbyterian Church of Chase, a church Elder, Daughters American Revolution, Chase High School Alumni, Worthwhile Club, all of Lyons and various card clubs.
Survivors include one son, Steven and Wiletta Peterson of Chase; two daughters, Cathy and Ben Delgadillo of Larned and Carolyn and Marvin Piper of Scribner, Neb.; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one brother, Ray Foote.
Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the church with the Rev. Jesse and the Rev. Arlene Patrick officiating. Burial will be at Chase Springdale Cemetery in Chase. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to the church or Center for Basic Cancer Research KSU, in care of the funeral home.
Lyons News
October 19, 2010

WANDA J. SHARP

Wanda J. Sharp of Lyons died Oct. 18 at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
Lyons News
October 19, 2010

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Updated 10/12/10

LOIS JEANNINE HEFLEY

Lois Jeannine Hefley, 74, of Webb City, Mo., went to be with her Lord on Oct. 6. She was born in Lyons Nov. 26, 1935, to the late Hiram Smith and Mary Marceline (Tener) Smith. She graduated from Lyons High School, attended Sterling College, Pittsburg State University and Emporia State University. She had a bachelor of arts degree and a masters degree in library science.
She was married Gary Jackson senior. They divorced. She married Brian Fenton. They divorced. She married Jerry Hefley. He is deceased.
In the last years of Lois’s life she lived in Oswego and Grove, Okla., and in 2006 moved to Webb City, Mo., to live with her son and family so she could be closer to her granddaughter.
Lois was a school teacher and librarian for various school districts. She was nominated as a Kansas Master Teacher by the Chetopa Teacher’s Association. She was retired from the Oswego USD #504 School District.
Lois was a member of Beta Sigma Phi, Delta Kappa Gamma; VFW Auxiliary Local 3399; a KNEA Representative; Master Gardener of Delaware County and Jasper County; Arbor Day Foundation; and Sweet Annies Herb Club of Grove; Her garden was featured in the Grove Home Garden Tour sponsored by Lendonwood Gardens.
Lois volunteered at the Christian Medical Clinic of Grove, Okla., and also volunteered at the Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center.
Lois attended Christ’s Church of Oronogo and was a member of their Young at Heart Group and served on the welcome ministry team.
Lois loved to travel and went on several trips a year. She loved to garden and enjoyed her flowers and plants. She also liked antiques, books, music and singing.
Survivors include one son, Gary Jackson Jr. and his wife Sherri of Webb City, Mo.; two step-daughters, Tina Dinnsen of Oswego and Tisha Schroeder of Topeka; one sister, Sharon Palmgren of Lyons; one brother, Frank Smith of Baltimore, Md; and one granddaughter, Olivia Jackson. She was preceded in death by one brother, Duane Smith and one sister, Doloris Nevil.
A celebration of Lois’s life will be held at 10 a.m. Oct. 21, at Christ’s Church of Oronogo. Another service will be held at the Ebenezer Church in Lyons at 2 p.m. Oct. 23.
Family request that memorial contributions be made to the Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center in honor of Lois.

DELORIS L. UTHMANN

Deloris L. Uthmann, 82, passed away in Oklahoma City at the South Park Nursing Home. She was born Jan. 18, 1928 at Chase to John L. and Katherine Fledman Dellinger. She was a 1944 graduate of Chase High School was employed by National Supply in Chase. She later transferred to OKC.
She married GeorgeCalvin Uthmann Dec. 31, 1966, in Sapulpa, Okla. He is deceased.
Survivors include one son George Calvin, Jr. of Oklahoma City, Okla.; two sisters, Carol Coine of Great Bend and Roberta Snipes of Sapulpa, Okla.; five nieces; five nephews and many great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband George and one brother, Delbert. A memorial service will be held at Southminster Presbyterian Church in Oklahoma City on Oct. 15. Burial will be at a later date in the Chase Springdale Cemetery.
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LYONS NEWS
October 12, 2010

DORIS FORTUNE

Doris Charlene Fortune, 83, died Oct. 9 at Via Christi Regional Medical Center-St. Francis in Wichita. She was born Feb. 22, 1927, at Alexander in the last sod house in Rush County, the daughter of William and Bertha Filbert Schwartzkopf. She married Elo Zane "Easy" Fortune on May 2, 1989 in Lyons. He died April 2, 2009. She was a 1945 graduate of Brownell High School and was a retired dental assistant of 18 years for Stanley Bettin in Lyons.
She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Silver Leaf Chapter No. 464 Order of Eastern Star, loved working in her yard and tending her flowers, was a Kansas State Fair Promenader Square Dancer and an avid KU basketball fan.
She is survived by one son, Rodney Adkinson and wife Donna of Hutchinson; one daughter, Penny Lesley and husband Jon of Inman; three step-children, Jay Fortune and wife Linda of Littleton, Colo., Jerry Fortune of Golden, Colo., and June Davis of Crystal River, Fla.; one brother, Alfred Schwartzkopf and wife Kay of Ness City; two grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary Chapel in Hutchinson with the Rev. Mark Conard officiating. Burial will be at Fairlawn Burial Park. Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday at the mortuary. Memorials are suggested to First United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
October 12, 2010

REV. DR. ROBERT I. TOBIAS

WISCONSIN-The Rev. Dr. Robert Tobias, 91, transitioned from this life at United Hospital Systems, Kenosha, on Wednesday, October 6, 2010. Robert was born August 17, 1919, in Lyons to Edward Arthur and Pearl Brothers Tobias. On July 3, 1942, Robert married Gertrude Wells, of Lyons. He graduated from Lyons High School, “Class of 1937” and from Phillips University in Oklahoma and Union Theological Seminary in New York. Robert earned a doctorate in theology at the University of Geneva in Switzerland.
From 1946 to 1953, Robert was Assistant Director of the Department of Inter-Church Aid and Service to Refugees of the World Council of Churches with special responsibilities for East Europe and the Orthodox churches. He was a WCC observer of the Geneva sessions led by Eleanor Roosevelt in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
For his work in Greece, Professor Tobias was decorated by King Paul of Greece as Commander of the Royal Order of Phoenix, and in Yugoslavia he was decorated by patriarchs German and Pavel with the Order of St. Sava. In Geneva, he was awarded the “key to the city.”
Upon returning to the United States in the 1950s and through the 1980s, Robert was a professor of theology, first at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, and later at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. During that time, Professor Tobias continued his contacts and visits with the Orthodox in East Europe and served on numerous commissions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and other ecumenical and international organizations.
Beginning in 1983 Robert co chaired the sessions of the second round of Lutheran-Orthodox dialogue in North America and has written books and articles related to his work, including “Heaven on Earth: A Lutheran-Orthodox Odyssey. “At various times in his life, Robert was an avid pilot, sailor, skier, and gardener, and he loved spending time with the many children that came into his life.
Robert is survived by his wife of 68 years, Trudy of Racine, Wis.; children, Jan David (Joy) Tobias of Virginia, Kathryn Tobias of Maryland, Mark (June) of Colorado, Paul (Kari Kittermaster) of Racine, Anne (James) Tobias-Becker of De Pere, grandchildren Laura (Richard) Gruss, Valerie and fiance Jason Bentley, Erin, Vincent, Austin, Lindsay and Eric; great grandchildren Brianna, Rosalind, Lillian, Gavin, and Daniel. He is also survived by a brother James (Mary) Tobias, sister, Mariella Sawin and, sister-in-law, Elma Tobias, as well as 17 loved nieces and nephews and their families along with many fellow church members neighbors and friends. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Carol Lyn in 1947, one son, Philip in 1971; a sister, Helen Long and two brothers, Cecil and Raymond Tobias.
A funeral service for Rev. Dr. Robert Tobias was held at Holy Communion Lutheran Church, 2000 W. 6th Street, Racine on Sunday, October 10, 2010 at 5 p.m. with Bishop Jeff Barrow of the Greater Milwaukee Synod and Rev. Walter Hermanns officiating.
Robert will be laid to rest next to his son, Philip at Sunset Ridge Memorial Park in a private ceremony.
Memorial gifts may be directed to Holy Communion Lutheran Church or Church World Service.
His words of gratitude were transcribed recently by his wife, Trudy: “Pilot, pastor, professor, there’ve been great touchdownsfrom Canada to Mexico, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, with students, pastors, family, friends, and fellow explorers in the magnificent panorama of ‘Heaven on Earth.’ Thank you all.”
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LYONS NEWS
October 12, 2010

Updated 10/8/10

KAY JANSSEN EMERY

SILOAM SPRINGS, ARK-Kay Janssen Emery, 74, of Siloam Springs, Ark., passed away Oct. 2 at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, Ark. She was born at home on June 11, 1936, n Lorraine, the daughter of Leland and Verna Melchert Janssen.
She worked in advertising at Dayspring for over 20 years. She enjoyed volunteering in organizations such as political campaigns and pro-life movements. She loved her family and grandchildren. She also enjoyed helping others, working in her garden and she spent lots of time reading her Bible.
Kay is survived by her husband of 55 years, Dr. Richard Ray Emery; one son, Jeff Emery of Colcord, Okla.; two daughters, Kristin Stewart and husband, Jeff, of Siloam Springs, and Kerry Pruett and husband, Peter, of Cincinnati, Ark; two brothers, Armand Janssen and wife, Nancy, of Cabot, Ark.; and Russell Janssen and wife, Linda, of Clearwater, Fla.; one sister, Carol Matheuzik and husband, Rudie, of Austria; and seven grandchildren.
Burial was at Oak Hill Cemetery in Siloam Springs.
A celebration of Kay’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Oct. 16 at Outreach Center in Siloam Springs.
Memorials may be made in honor of Kay Emery to Project Hannah, P.O. Box 8700, Cary, N.C., 27512; or Circle of Life, 901 Jones Rd., Springdale, Ark 72762.
Arrangements are by Stockdale Funeral Services of Rogers, Ark. Online condolences may be made at stocksdale.com.
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LYONS NEWS
October 8, 2010

TERRI S. JOHNSON

Terri S. Johnson, 54, died Oct. 4 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. She was born July 16, 1956, at Lyons, the daughter of Gerald “Ed” Edwin and Sue Ann Davis Truesdell. She married Robert R. Johnson May 27, 1978, at Lyons. A longtime Lyons resident, she was owner of The Video Station in Lyons, a bookkeeper for Rice County Council on Aging and a homemaker.
Survivors include her husband of the home; one son, Tyler and Toni Johnson of Lyons; one daughter, Rhianna Johnson and Dave Kusiak of Solomon; a sister, Tamra and Robert Green of Columbia, Mo.; a twin sister, Sherri and Al DeBlieux of Platte City, Mo.; and a grandchild, EmmaRae Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Cynthia LoBurgio.
Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. today at First Christian Church in Lyons with the Rev. Ron DeVore and the Rev. Robert Green officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Rice County Council on Aging in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
October 8, 2010

REV. DR. ROBERT I. TOBIAS

RACINE, WI- Rev. Dr. Robert I. Tobias, 91, passed away in Kenosha, Wisconsin Oct. 6. He was born in Lyons, Kansas on Aug. 17, 1919, the son of Edward and Pearl Brothers Tobias.
Funeral services will be held at Holy Communion Lutheran Church, 2000 W. 6th Street, Racine, WI on Sunday, Oct.10 at 5 p.m.
Sturino Funeral Home, 3014 Nothwestern Ave., Racine, WI, 53404, is in charge of arrangements. (262-632-4479) www.sturinofuneralhome.com.
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LYONS NEWS
October 8, 2010

Updated 10/5/10

THERON LEE KELLEY

Theron Lee Kelley, 80, died Sept. 30 at his residence in Lyons. He was born Oct. 9, 1929, at Great Bend, the son of Bowman H. and Goldie W. Dunn Kelley. He married Merna John Aug. 29, 1949, at Lyons. A longtime Lyons resident, he was a 1948 graduate of Lyons High School, attended Hutchinson Junior College, was a U.S. Naval Reserve Veteran. He was retired from Young Motors Parts Department and was a USD No. 405 bus driver for 13 years.
Kelley was a member of First Christian Church of Lyons, a 25-year volunteer Fireman, serving as county captain; and a member of Lions Club and Odd Fellows.
Survivors include his wife of the home; five sons, John and Kathy Kelley and Mark Kelley, all of Lyons, Pat and Helen Kelley of Edmond, OK., Bob and Lyn Kelley of Mabanks, TX, and Ted and Cary Kelley of Gun Barrel City, TX.; one daughter, Kala and Donald Searcy of Weston, MO., one sister, Beverly Root of Lyons; 17 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by infant son, Thane Kelley, daughterin-law Nellie Kelley and grandson, Chad Kelley.
Funeral service will be at II a.m. Oct. 16 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Ron DeVore officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery with honors by Lyons Fire Department. Memorials are suggested to Lyons Fireman Memorial Fund or Hospice Care of Kansas in McPherson, both in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
October 5, 2010

MARVIN J. JOARNT

Marvin J. Joarnt, 78, died Oct. 1 in rural Little River. Born Nov. 12, 1931, at Long Prairie, MI, he was the son of Henry H. and Kathryn Laumeyer Joarnt. He married Shirley Peterson Rutherford Sept. 14, 1963 in Lyons. They were divorced. A longtime Little River resident, he was a U.S. Navy veteran, having served in the Korean War, was a 1949 graduate of Long Prairie High School, was a farmer and a self-employed craftsman and painter and wallpaper hanger.
Survivors include four daughters, Debbie and Brian Hertel of Emporia, Cheri Chance of Hutchinson, Lisa and Mark Bartels of Sartell, MN, and Brenda Joarnt of St. Cloud, MN; three sisters, LaVerne "Dubs" Laudick of Lyons, Yvonne and Clayton Parker of Grand Rapids, MN, and Beverly Motzko of St, Cloud, MN; two brothers, Roger Joarnt of Osakis MN., and Richard and Shirley Joarnt of St. Cloud, MN; five grandchidren, Drew Chance, Megan Hertel, Tyler Janda, Erin Jager and Allison Payonk. He was preceded in death by a brother, Eugene Joarnt; and a sister, Betty Snyder.
Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. today at Congregational Church in Little River with pastor Ted Weis officiating. Burial will be at Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River with military honors by U.S. Navy and Little River American Legion. Memorials are suggested to Little River Fire Department or Dwight Lampson American Legion Post No. 258 in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
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LYONS NEWS
October 5, 2010

HOWARD CLINTON “CLINT” PEACOCK

Howard Clinton “Clint” Peacock, 83, died Oct. 2 at Stafford County Hospital. He was born Dec. 31, 1926, in Lyons, the son of Howard P. and Martha Jane Miller Peacock. He attended Mitchell schools and on Oct. 31, 1944, joined the U. S. Navy, serving until honorably discharged July 5, 1 946. He married Josie June Lavielle Nov. 16, 1947, at Sylvia. She died Jan. 2, 2010.
He was a member ofthe V.F.W. Bob Campbell Post No. 1361, American Legion Lysle Rishel Post No. 68 and a former member of Kansas Flying Fanners.
Survivors include one son, Howard Laurant Peacock of Burton; one daughter, Gayla Sue Peacock Moeckel of Plevna; one granddaughter, Marcella Marie Moeckel Smiley and husband Todd of Sylvia; one great-grandson, Cash Dean Smiley; and a son-in-law Roger Stroberg of Hutchinson. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Sharon Kay Peacock Stroberg; and a son-in-law, Jeffrey R. Moeckel.
Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. today at Elliott Mortuary in Hutchinson with pastor Steve Gill officiating. Burial will follow at Sylvia Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Abbyville Booster Club or Sylvia EMS, all in care of the funeral home. Personal condolences for the family may be left at www.elliottmortuary.com.
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LYONS NEWS
October 5, 2010

JOHN CALVIN VOTH

John Calvin Voth, 83, died Sept. 30 at Central Kansas Medical Center in Great Bend. He was born Nov. 11, 1926, at Ellinwood, the son of J. Milo and Esther Schermuly Voth. He married Eileen Ecker July 17, 1946, at Marion. A lifetime Ellinwood resident, he was a self-employed upholsterer and shoe repairman and a veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served in World War II; and the Korean War.
Voth was a member of American Legion VF.W. and Lions Club, all of Ellinwood. Survivors include his wife of the home; one son, Jan Voth of Palm Beach, FL.; and two sisters, Joan Voth of Great Bend and Jacque Gegen of Wichita; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sons, John and Jim Voth. Graveside service will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Lakin-Commanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood with the Rev. Father Charles Mazouch officiating. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. at Kimple Funeral Home in Ellinwood. Memorials are suggested to EMS, Ellinwood School Library Foundation or the American Cancer Society.
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LYONS NEWS October 5, 2010

DELORES LEONA EHLY MOORE

Delores Leona Ehly Moore was born July 29, 1921 at rural Frederick, the daughter of Leo P. Ehly and Frances Lena Novotny Ehly Charter. She attended grade school at Union Four in Rice County and graduated from Lyons High School in 1939. Delores resided eight years in the San Francisco Bay area. Since 1954 (55 years) she lived in Reno County. At age 89, Delores died on Sept. 24 at her home in Hutchinson.
Delores attended Adela Hale Business College. She worked at American Salt Company in Lyons and at Boeing Aircraft in Wichita. While employed as a civilian staff teletype operator at Hutchinson Naval Air Station, she met Jerry Moore. Delores and Claude (Jerry) Moore were married Oct. 26, 1946, in Omaha, NE. She worked five years at the Naval Supply Depot in Oakland, CA. Later as a homemaker and mother, Delores provided in-home cosmetics and skin care counseling as a beauty counselor cosmetics consultant.
Delores was a member of the Park Place Christian Church and historian for the Christian Disciples. She was a charter member ofthe Reno County Genealogical Society and a member of the Uvedale Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Delores was a founding member of the Green Thumb Garden Club and held office in that organization for 50 years. She served as a national accredited flower show judge and was granted Emeritus status. She was a member of the Hutchinson American Legion Lysle Rishel Post. No. 69 Auxiliary.
Deloroes was preceded in death by her mother and father, Frances Novotny of Holyrood and Leo Ehly of Claflin and three sisters, Bernice Frances Perry of Junction City, Betty Jean Edwards of Hutchinson and Norma June Hartle of Lyons. Survivors include her husband of Hutchinson; one daughter, Adrienne Moore Baxter of Olathe; one granddaughter, Allegra Moore Baxgter of Lawrence; and nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place. Sharing of Delores’ life and inurnment is scheduled at 11 :00 a.m. Oct. 15 at Lyons Municipal Cemetery family grave site. Ministers presiding will be the Rev. Dr. Kim Berry, son-in-law Thomas F. Baxter and Richard Brayton will also officiate. A gathering of friends and family at Camp WaJaTo will follow the gravesite service. Memorial gifts may be made to Lyons Municipal Cemetery, 217 E. Ave. South, Lyons, KS 67554 or to Camp WaJaTo, 1518 State Road #14, Lyons, KS 67554.
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LYONS NEWS
October 5, 2010

Updated 10/01/10

ROY D. “TBONE” BROWN

Roy D. “Tbone” Brown, 39, died Sept. 28 at his residence in Lyons. He was born May 30, 1971, in Lyons, the son of Linda L. Waggoner and Danny L. Brown. A longtime Lyons resident, he was a 1989 graduate of Lyons High School, received his truck driver’s certificate from Wichita Vo-Tech, attended Coffeyville Junior College. on a football scholarship, attended Garden City Junior College on a wrestling scholarship, and was a former over-the-road truckdriver.
Brown was a member of Lyons Learners and Valley Blue Birds 4-H clubs in Lyons.
Survivors include his mother, Linda Barker and Tom Davis of Lyons; two children, Elizabeth and Levi Brown; grandmother, Lena “Midge” Waggoner of Lyons; two sisters, Laurie Flenner of Mansfield, Ohio and Dawn Boll of Hutchinson; two uncles and aunts, Ed and Leona Waggoner of Lyons and Don and Julia Waggoner of McPherson; and five nieces. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Wayne Waggoner.
Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial will be in Lyons Municipal Cermetery. Memorials are suggested to Reno Co. Hospice and Home Health Care or Rice Co. District Hospital in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
October 1, 2010

Updated 9/28/10

LESTA JEAN (SCHMUTZ) SUTTER

Lesta Jean (Schmutz) Sutter, 83 of Salina, passed away Sept. 24 at Salina Presbyterian Manor.
She was born in rural Dickinson County on Feb. 18, 1927, the daughter of the late Arthur M. and Irene (Emig) Schmutz. She was the widow of Vernon E. Sutter and worked as a home health supervisor.
Sutter was a member of First Church of the Nazarene, where she served as the missionary president, a senior adult sunday school teacher, and a bible study leader.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sons, Stanley, David, and Gregory Sutter; brother Don Schmutz; and granddaughter, Sharon Cunningham.
Survivors include two daughters; Barbara (Ed) Morse and Beth (Rich) Cunningham, all of Salina; one son, Rodney (Kathy) Sutter, of Plainville, KS; two sisters Phyllis Wilson, of Culver City, CA, and Maxine Kersey, of San Antonio, TX; 15 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and one-great-great-grandchild.
A funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Sept. 30 at Salina First Church of Nazarene with the Rev. Jon M. Fillipi officiating. Burial will be at 1:30 p.m in the McPherson City Cemetery.
Friends may call from 9a.m.- 8p.m. Wednesday at Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home in Salina with family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made in Lesta's name to the Nazarene Missions International (NMI), c/o Salina Firtst Church of the Nazarene, 1425 S. Ohio St., Salina, KS 67401, or Hospice of Salina 730 Holly Lane, Box 2238 Salina, Kansas 67401.
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LYONS NEWS
September 278, 2010

CLARA M. MASON

Clara M. Mason, 81, died Sept. 26 at Good Samaratin Center in Lyons. She was born May 12, 1929, at Baraboo, WI, the daughter of John C. and Dorothy Elizabeth Droste Reichard. She married Elmer Mason Nov. 1, 1950, at Baraboo. A Lyons resident for 20 years, she was a homemaker.
Mason was a volunteer at the Thrift Shop in Lyons.
Survivors include her husband of the home; two sons, Jason Mason of Nickerson and Elmer T. Mason of Lyons; one daughter, Phyllis M. Bruno of Oklahoma; one sister, Lois Strampe of Tomahawk, WI; seven grandchilren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Pastor Jason Mason and the Rev. William Cardonne officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home.
Memorials are suggested to Clara Mason Memorial Fund in care of the funeral home.

LYONS NEWS
September 28, 2010

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Updated 9/24/10

LILLIAN I. PICKERILL

Lillian I. Pickerill, 75, died Sept. 21, at Mennonite Friendship Manor in South Hutchinson. She was born July 13, 1935, at Sterling, the daughter of Guy L. and Hazel M. Ramsey Miller. She married Larry H. Pickerill July 16, 1966 at Sterling. He died June 18, 2008. A lifetime member of Sterling she was a homemaker.
Survivors include son, Frank Asling of Pueblo, Colo.; daughter, Nancy Oxley of Haven; brother, John Miller of Sterling; sister, Betty Lattimer of Hutchinson; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Franklin Miller and Eugene (Bud) Miller; and two sisters, Patty Duncan and Georgia Casey Dutton.
Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the Rev. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetry. Memorials are suggested to Sterling Grade School Art Department.

LYONS NEWS
September 24, 2010

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Updated 9/21/10

JERRY L. RATHBUN

ELLSWORTH-- Jerry L. Ratahbun, 62, died Sept. 15 in Pottawatomie County.
He is survivied by his father, Jack; two sons Travis and Joshua; one daughter, Amber Rathbun Sharp; three brothers, Jackie, Kelley and Kendall; one sister, Susie Carney; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother Calleene and an infant daughter, Treva Kay in 1970.
A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Sept. 23 at Parsons Funeral Home in Ellsworth. Memorials may be made to Ellsworth County Historical Society in care of the funeral home, Box 45, Ellsworth, KS, 67349.
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LYONS NEWS
September 20, 2010

Updated 9/17/10

LEROY COOPER

Lyons News has learned of the death Aug. 23 of Lyons native Leroy Cooper, in Rock Hill, S.C., where he had made his home for a number of years.
Cooper was a 1950 graduate of Lyons High School, and had been employed by Duke Power Company as an iron worker.
Memorials may be sent to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 950 Faris Street, Greenville, South Carolina 29605.
LYONS NEWS
September 17, 2010

Updated 9/14/10

Gary L. Wilhite

Gary W. Wilhite, 74, a resident of Sterling since 1972, formerly from Hutchinson, died Sept. 10, 2010, at his residence in Sterling. He was born, July 12, 1936, at Hutchinson, the son of Huston Roy and Flossie Fry Wilhite. He married Delores Sidener March 30, 1958, in Hutchinson.
Wilhite was a 1954 graduate of Hutchinson High School, a retired assistant manager of Westlake Hardward in Hutchinson and a U.S. Army veteran.
He attended First Baptist Church, past master Masonic Blue Lodge and American Legion, all of Sterling.
Survivors include his wife of the home; three sons, Ron Wilhite (Carla) of Sterling, Scott Wilhite (Brenda) of Wellington and Jeff Wilhite (Renee) of Nixa, Mo.; one daughter, Sondra Kitch (Jim) of Quinter; one brother, Robert Wilhite of Scandonavia, Wis.; 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services were held Monday at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling. Burial was at Penwell Gabel Memorial Park Cemetery in Hutchinson with military honors by Ft. Riley and Sterling American Legion. Memorials are suggested to American Lung Association in care of the funeral home.
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Lyons News
September 14, 2010

Della L. Pruitt

Della L. Pruitt, 71, died Sept. 12 at Good Samaritan Center in Lyons. She was born Jan. 25, 1939, at Bavaria, the daughter of Paige and Lola Shute Shuttleworth. She married Wayne Pruitt Aug. 2, 1959, at Geneseo. She was a 1957 graduate of Geneseo High School and a graduate of Brown Mackie Business College. A Lyons resident since 1958, Pruitt was a homemaker.
She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Lyons.
Survivors include her husband of the home; two daughters, Shelly Aquino-Sanchez of Ft. Collins, Colo., and Cindy Monroe of Salina; two brothers, Myrt Shuttleworth of Geneseo and Paige Shuttleworth of Guthrie, Okla.; one sister, LaDonna Griffis of Lyons; three grandchildren, Jakob Sumearll, Kasey Sumearll, Alexa Aquino-Sanchez; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Dwight, Ted, and Vance Shuttleworth.
Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Orie Ensz officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to Bell & Star Fund or Hospice Care of Kansas in care of the funeral home.
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Lyons News
September 14, 2010

Lloyd Wesley Rages

Lloyd Wesley Rages, 90, died Sept. 12 at his residence in Lyons. He was born July 25, 1920, at Abbyville, the son of Edward and Gertrude Timken Rages. He married Marlane Woodard July 4, 1948, in Topeka. A resident of Geneseo and Lyons the past 33 years, Rages was a graduate of LaCrosse High School, Washburn University and the University of Kansas. He worked 44.5 years in the field of education starting a one-room school in Rush County. He was principal at the Topeka Grant Elementary School during Brown vs. Board of Education, an assistant to the superintendent at Hutchinson, superintendent at Bazine and principal at Geneseo. Rages was a crop insurance adjuster across Kansas and Colorado for many years and after his retirement from the public schools operated Rages Crop Insurance Agency in Lyons. Rages was a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, having served during World War II.
Rages was a member of United Methodist Church and Masonic Lodge of Geneseo; a life member of National Education Association and KNEA; and a former Goodfellow Board member.
Survivors include his wife of the home; one son, Daniel Rages (Janice) of Hutchinson; one daughter, Rebecca (Paul) Barry of Omaha, Neb.; six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Rebecca Erni.
Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Gene Langhofer officiating. Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at Prairie Home Cemetery in Topeka. Friends may call from 2 to 7 p.m. today at the funeral home in Lyons. There will be a visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Parker-Price Mortuary in Topeka. Memorials are suggested to Geneseo United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.
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Lyons News
September 14, 2010

Faye M. Dressel

Faye M. Dressel, 88, died Sept. 13 at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson. She was born Aug. 28, 1922, at Lyons, the daughter of W.E. "Wally" and Viola Gould Lattimer. She married Robert Dressel Sept. 1, 1942, at Burbank, Calif. He died Nov. 10, 2001. A lifetime resident of Rice County, Lyons and Sterling, she was a graduate of Lyons High School and a homemaker.
Dressel attended United Methodist Church and was a member of Rebekah Lodge, Order of Eastern Star and Sterling Bowling League.
Survivors include three daughters, Sherry McCurry of Sunrise Beach, Mo., Karan Burgess of Sterling and Susan Proffitt of Gallup, NM; two brothers, Jim Lattimer of Newton and Max Lattimer of Hutchinson; one sister, Marian Starks of Palm Bay. FL; seven grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Warren, Hubert and Bob Lattimer; two sisters, Velma Heiligman and Eulela Ulrich; two son-in-laws, Truman Burgess and Roddy Proffitt; and a great-grandson, Tyson Proffitt.
Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 18 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the Rev. Marvin Ewertt officiating. Memorials are suggested to United Methodist Church in Sterling, Presbyterian Manor or Ralph Thorne Care Center, all in care of the funeral home.
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Lyons News
September 14, 2010

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Updated 9/10/10

Roger W. Heter

Roger W. Heter, 63, died Sept. 7 at Hospice House in Hutchinson. He was born Nov. 9, 1946, at Hutchinson, the son of Waid and Gladys Mae Richardson Heter Jr. A lifetime Sterling resident, he was a 1964 graduate of Sterling High School, attended Kansas State University and was a farmer/rancher.
He married Carolyn Sue Shepherd June 6, 1971 at Hutchinson. She died Dec. 7, 2002. He was a member of United Methodist Church of Sterling; American Legion, Kansas Livestock Association and was a longtime Sterling township board member.
Survivors include one son, Ryan and wife Nancy Heter of Raymond; one daughter, Sue and husband Vytas Ringus of Norman, Okla.; mother, Gladys Heter-Sargent of Hutchinson; one brother, Richard Heter of Holden, Mo.; two sisters, Louise White of Lee’s Summit, Mo., and Sarah DiDio of Queensbury, NY; and three grandchildren, Clayton and Josie Heter and Carolyn Ringus. His father preceded him in death.
Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 11 at the church with the Rev. Marvin Ewertt officiating. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery with military honors by Sterling American Legion.
Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. today with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
Memorials are suggested to Center for Basic Cancer Research, Kansas State University, United Methodist Church of Sterling or Hospice House of Hutchinson, all in care of the funeral home.

Sept. 10, 2010
Lyons News

Updated 9/3/10

Herman G. Hoffman Jr.

Herman G. Hoffman Jr., 80, died Sept. 1 at Rice County District Hospital in Lyons. He was born Aug. 8, 1930, in Atchison, the son of Herman and Golda T. Goulding Hoffman. A Lyons resident since 1965, formerly of Russell.
He married Mary Jane Dumler May 8, 1955, in Russell.
Hoffman was a graduate of Butler High School of Butler, Okla.;and served as a warrant officer in the Russell National Guard. Hoffman was a former owner of Culligan Water Conditioning in Lyons, Ellinwood and Great Bend, retiring in 1999; and previously worked for Harry Gore and Lane Well for 15 years in the logging and perforating business.
Hoffman was a member of United Methodist Church, United Methodist Men, Kum Dubble Sunday School Class, Rotary Club, Masonic Royal Lodge No. 192, and Boy Scouts, all of Lyons; Gideon International; and Water Quality Association.
Survivors include his wife of the home; two sons, Herman G. Hoffman III and wife Chris of Lyons and Stanley L. Hoffman of Hutchinson; four grandchildren; and four step-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Mary Jane Crecink; and one nephew, Webb J. Crecink III of West Monroe, La.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Sept. 4 at United Methodist Church in Lyons with the Rev. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial will be at Lyons Municipal Cemetery in Lyons. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family members present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to the church or Rice County Health Foundation, both in care of the funeral home.
Lyons News Sept. 3, 2010

Robert G. Cundith

Robert G. Cundith, 68, died Aug. 31 at his residence in Sterling. He was born July 23, 1942, the son of John and Eula Edwards Cundith.
He married Karen Ann Wilkey May 8, 1964, at Emporia. She died July 23, 2008. A longtime Sterling resident, he was a 1960 graduate of Sterling High School, a graduate of Emporia State University, was a self-employed accountant and a former partner of Pratt Livestock Inc.
Cundith was a member of United Presbyterian Church of Sterling; tresurer and board member of Sterling Country Club and Lyons Town and Country Club; a member of Prairie Dunes Country Club; Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity; U.S. Olympics supporter; past president of Sterling Chamber of Commerce; a charter member of Sterling Preservation Association; and a longtime benefactor of the Prairie Art Show and Sterling College.
Survivors include one son, Tyler Cundith and wife Annette of Overland Park; one daughter, Sara Nafus and husband Chris of Lenexa; one brother, John Cundith of Broken Arrow, Olka.; six sisters, Joyce Deegan of Tehachapi, Calif., Anna Mae Alexander of Altus, Okla., Flora Pearson of Moss Point, Miss., Betty Willson of Carpinteria, Calif., Barbara Engelland of Shawnee and Judy Fulton of Sterling; and four grandchildren, Brandon and Kelsey Cundith; and Lauren and Robbie Nafus. He was preceded in death by an infant son, David Cundith; and four brothers, Tom, Harry, Horace and Richard Cundith.
Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the church in Sterling with the Rev. Seth Svaty officiating. Burial will be at Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials are suggested to American Diabetes Association, Sterling Country Club or Studio 96, all in care of the funeral home.
Lyons News Sept. 3, 2010

Updated 8/27/10

Roy Merle Bryant

Roy Merle Bryant, 63, of Lyons died Aug. 24 at his residence. He was born Oct. 4, 1946, at Hesston, the son of Robert and Mildred Lynch Bryant. Bryant was a Lyons resident for 38 years.
He was a former city of Lyons employee and an employee of Collingwood Grain in Little River.
Survivors include one son, Shad Bryant and wife Louise of Lyons; one daughter, Tina Enlow and husband Shawn of Lyons; five grandchildren, Gia Bryant, Holla Bryant, Bella Bryant, Mia Bryant and Willa Bryant. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; and one brother.
Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Quentin Bennett officiating. Memorials are suggested to Roy Bryant Memorial Fund in care of the funeral home.
Lyons News
Aug. 27, 2010

Updated 8/20/10

Wayne E. Parsell

Wayne E. Parsell, 74, a longtime Chase resident, died Aug. 16 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson.
He was born Dec. 24, 1935, at Hutchinson, the son of Harold and Jayne Garrison Parsell.
He married Helena Ferreira Jan. 8, 1975, at Lyons. He was a retired off shore oil driller and a 1953 graduate of Chase High School.
Parsell was a member of AARP.
Survivors include his wife of the home; one son, Victor Parsell and wife Cindy of Raymond; five daughters, Kimberly Weis and husband Chuck of Craig, Colo., Tracy Miller of Lyons, Samantha Hook and husband Robert of Kansas City, Martha Schaller of Pittsburg, Pa., and Marcia Austin and husband Roger of Ogden, Utah; three sisters, Beth Bray of Big Piney, Wyo., Jean Swisher of Lyons and Kathy Dellinger of Mountain View Wyo.; 17 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial service was held Aug. 19 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
Memorials are suggested to Humane Society in care of the funeral home.
Lyons News
Aug. 20, 2010

Effie H. Irvine

Effie H. Irvine, 93, a longtime Little River resident, died Aug. 16 at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. She was born Sept. 1, 1916, at Marquette, the daughter of Ancil and Ella Durland Holler.
She married Olan Irvine Aug. 28, 1936, at Little River. He died May 6, 1984. She was a 1935 graduate of Marquette High School and was a homemaker.
Irvine was a member of Congregational Church, Women's Fellowship and Odessa Birthday Club, all of Little River.
Survivors include one son, Keith Irvine of Haysville; two daughters. Gayle Williams of Hutchinson and Rosemary Bonin of Salina; one sister, Dorothy Myers of Marquette; five grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one son, Steven Lee Irvine; and three brothers, Quinten Holler, Vernon Holler and Ivan Holler.
Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. today at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with the Rev. Ted Weis officiating. Burial will be at Bean Memorial Cemetery in Little River. Memorials are suggested to the nursing home or the church in care of the funeral home.
Lyons News
Aug. 20, 2010

Updated 8/17/10

Walter P. Vincent

STERLING - Walter P. Vincent, 91, died Aug. 11, 2010, at Sterling. He was born June 10, 1919, at Alden, to Frank Edward and Mary Jeter Vincent. He was a longtime Sterling and Alden resident. He retired from Oil Field Production for Cities Service Oil Co. He was a member of United Methodist Church and American Legion Post #128, both of Sterling. He was a U.S. Marine serving during World War II, and was wounded in the Battle of Iwo Jima. On Aug. 10, 1940, he married Billie D. Ray at Enid, Okla. She died Aug. 31, 1995.
Survivors include: sons, William "Bill" Stuart, Dennis Vincent, both of Sterling; daughters, Karen Barker, Mary Jayne Cain, both of Sterling, Patty Plank, Wichita; sister, Jean Wilder, Springfield, Mo.; 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; seven step-great-grandchildren; and four step-great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by: infant granddaughter, Debra Stuart; grandson, David Stuart; brothers, Doran Vincent, Harvey Vincent, Richard Vincent; sisters, Neta Gillen and Helen Royer.
Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2010, at United Methodist Church in Sterling, with Rev. Marvin Ewertt officiating. Burial in Sterling Community Cemetery in Sterling, with Military Honor by U.S. Marine Corps. Visitation 2 to 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 16, 2010, at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling, with family present 5 to 7 p.m. Memorials to United Methodist Church or American Legion Post #128, in care of the funeral home.

Aug. 17, 2010
LYONS NEWS

Updated 8/13/10

Robert F. Fulton Sr.

Robert F. Fulton Sr. , 83, died Aug. 11 at Buhler Sunshine Home in Buhler. He was born April 3, 1927, at Dierks, Ark., the son of Walter Ernest “Pegg” and Pearl Carson Fulton. He was a longtime Sterling resident.
He married Judy Cundith Aug. 24, 1991, at Kanopolis Lake. Fulton was self-employed in various businesses in Sterling, a graduate of Wright City, Okla. High School and a U.S. Navy veteran, serving during World War II and the Korean War.
He was a member of United Methodist Church and American Legion, both of Sterling; and was a former Sterling mayor and city councilman.
Survivors include his wife of the home; two sons, Terry Fulton of South Fork, Colo., and Robert Fulton Jr. of Hutchinson; two daughters, Ginger Dody of Emporia, Peggy McNutt of Moundridge; two step-daughters, Stacy True and Kristy Flickinger, both of Sterling; one brother, Eddie Fulton of Sterling; three sisters, Helen M. Henry of Sterling, Virginia Lewis of Ponca City, Okla., and Peggy McQuin of Loveland, Colo.; 13 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Sterling Community Cemetery with the Rev. Kendal Connor officiating.
Friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Birzer Funeral home in Sterling.
Memorials are suggested to Buhler Sunshine Home, Hospice Care of Kansas or donor’s choice, all in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
August 13, 2010

Clifford T. “Babe” Archer

Clifford T. “Babe” Archer, 87, died Aug. 10 at his residence in Lyons. He was born Sept. 17, 1922, at Weld County Colo., the son of William M. and Pauletta Johnson Archer. He was a longtime Lyons resident.
He married Diane Lucas Dec. 26, 1960 in Lyons. He was a retired postman and home builder, a 1940 graduate of Lyons High School, where he was a member of the football team; and a U.S. Navy veteran, serving in World War II.
Archer was a member of the Baptist Church, American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, all of Lyons; and a former member of Town and Country Club in Lyons.
Survivors include his spouse of the home; two sons, Earl Archer and Ralph Archer, both of Lyons; two daughters, Mary McClanahan of Tulsa, Okla., and Trudy Archer of Hutchinson; one sister-in-law, Berta Dee Archer of Lyons; one granddaughter, Meagan Archer of Hutchinson; and two great-grandchildren, Sebastian and Shyann. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Earl Glenn Archer, Donald Lavone Archer and Charles Leon “Salty” Archer; and two sisters, Doris J. Dowdle and June Lauvstad.
Graveside service with military honors will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Lyons Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Father Charles Kerschen officiating.
Memorials are suggested to Arthritis Foundation or Lyons High School golf program, both in care of the funeral home.
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LYONS NEWS
August 13, 2010

Updated 8/10/10

Linda Sue Sunley
1942 ~ 2010

Linda Sue Sunley died August 7, 2010 at the Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson, KS. She was born December 9, 1942, in Hill City, KS. She was the daughter John William Tebo and Alta Lorene Depew Tebo.
She graduated Hill City High School in 1960. She lived in Hays, Kansas before moving to Lyons in 1971. She went to work for the Lyons News in 1975 where she was employed until her recent retirement last month. She worked in many capacities at the newspaper, but had been a reporter and the Sports Editor for the past several years. While employed there, she was a member of the Associated Press and was awarded the Kansas State High Athletic Stauffer Award, among many other accomplishments.
She was a member of the Lyons United Methodist Church, and the Lyons Town and Country Club.
She married Terry Dean Johnson in September, 1960, and later married Roger Sunley in June of 1971.
Survivors include two daughters, Susan Kay Clark of Lyons, Janet Linn Wadel and her husband Jim of Foster, MO; one son, Chad William Johnson and wife, Beth, of Lawrence, KS; three step-children, LaFonda Sharp of Healy, KS, Rhonda Koehn of Henderson, NE, Byler Sunley, Healy, KS; three brothers, Ronnie Tebo of Lawrence, KS, Stephen Tebo of Boulder, CO; Kent Tebo of Bennington, KS; Nine grandchildren, Brooks Clark, Blaine Clark, Brennan Clark, Jonathan Fairbanks, Jamie Rogers, Jessica Staton, Jeffery Fairbanks, Spencer Johnson, Haylee Johnson, five great-grandchildren and eight step-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, John David Tebo.
The Funeral Service will be today, August 10, 2010, at the United Methodist Church in Lyons, Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett officiating. Interment will be 3:00 p.m. August 10, 2010 at Hill City Cemetery, Hill City, KS.
Memorials may be given to the Lyons High School Athletic Department in care of Birzer Funeral Home.

Updated 8/6/10

Douglas Leon Minix

Douglas Leon Minix passed away Friday, July 30, 2010 at his home in Earlsboro. He was 67.
Born August 20, 1942 to William and Cornelia Minix in Tulsa, he attended school in Hominy, and joined the Air Force in 1960. He served five years, and was employed at Tinker Air Force Base for 18 years before his retirement. He had a great passion for life and helping others. Family was important to him.
He was preceded in death by his mother, father, six brothers and six sisters. He is survived by his wife Pamela from the home; three sons, Jeffrey Minix, Travis Minix, and Ryan Minix; one daugher, Kayla Minix; six grandchilren, Tori Bristow, Coleton Bristow, Kaitlynn Jarvis, Keegan and Madison Alexander; one great-granddaughter, all from Shawnee; and one sister, Shirley Couffer from Hominy.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, please make donations in Doug's name to the American Cancer Society.
Lyons News, 8-6-2010

Roger Lincoln Sunley

Roger L. Sunley died August 1, 2010 at his home in Great Bend, Kansas. He was born April 7, 1944 in Brownell, Kansas. His parents were Cecil and Edith (Hurst) Sunley.
He was the owner of Charlie’s Barber Shop in Great Bend, where he had lived and worked for the past 10 year. Prior to that he lived in Lyons where he was the former Rice County EMS director and also was a barber.
Survivors include: one son, Byler of Healy; two daughters: LaFonda Sharp of Healy and Rhonda Koehn of Henderson, Neb., one sister, Kay Stauth of Cimarron; eight grandchildren, and his former wife Linda Sunley of Lyons.
He was preceeded in death by two infant sisters.
A private memorial will be set at a later date as his body has been cremated. Memorial may be sent to American Legion Riders in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Road, Great Bend, KS.
Lyons News, 8-6-2010

Updated 7/20/10

Hal W. Snyder

Hal W. Snyder died July 16, 2010, at Via Christi St. Joseph Medical Campus in Wichita. He was 82.
The son of Harold Hollis and Edna Barr Snyder was born Jan. 21, 1928, in Stockton.
A Lyons resident since 1937, he was a partner and cashier of the Lyons State Bank, retiring in 1992. He was former owner of Tucker Floral.
He graduated from Lyons High School in 1945, attended Kansas Wesleyan University and Phillips University in Enid, Okla. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, serving during World War II.
He was a member of Prairie Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Hutchinson; Rice County Democrats; Rice County Goodfellows; Lyons Tree Board; professional drummer playing in several combos, most recently with the Artis Tree Dance Studio in Hutchinson; former member of the Wichita Tap Katz; National Button Society; and National Association of the Advancement of Colored People.
On Aug. 2, 1952, he married Mary "Chris" Freeling in Oklahoma City, Okla. She survives.
Other survivors include son, Bill Snyder and wife Choum of Brooklyn Park, Minn.; daughters, Elaine Williamson and husband Mike of rural Lyons, and Terry Barry and husband Will of Brookfield, Vt.; brothers, Dale H. Snyder of Lyons and Don E. Snyder of Clinton, Mo.; eight grandchildren, Katie Flindall and husband Sandy, Betony Coons and husband Tim, Willow Woodall and husband Jeff, Pippin Williamson, Jonathan Williamson, Sonarie Snyder, Meagan Barry, and Elise Barry; and two great-grandchildren, Luca Flindall and Lucy Coons. He was preceded in death by a son, John Hollis Snyder.
Funeral services will be July 21, 11 a.m., at the United Methodist Church n Lyons with Rev. Quentin Bennett and Rev. Grant Davis officiating. Burial will be at a later date in Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be July 20 from 2-7 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family present from 5-7 p.m.
Memorials may be made to Rice County Goodfellows, Lyons Tree Board, or Friends of Animals in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Laura L. Thode

Longtime Sterling resident Laura L. Thode died July 16, 2010, at the District Hospital in Lyons at the age of 84.
Born Feb. 17, 1926, in Denver, Colo., she was the daughter of Ray Storey and Mildred Mary Kolachny Morton.
On Nov. 4, 1944, she married Cecil G. Thode in Benton, Ark. He died June 13, 1993.
She graduated from Sterling High School in 1944. She was a member of United Methodist Church in Sterling; superintendent of church school; United Methodist Women; Meals on Wheels; former board member of Sterling Housing Authority; and a Hospice volunteer.
Survivors include son Russell "Rusty" Thode and wife Sharlyn of Sterling; brother, Robert Morton of Sterling; sister, Bonnie Kessler of Wichita; two grandchildren, Scott Thode of Wichita and Trisha Jackson of Lawrence; three great-grandchildren, Andrew Thode, Maiya Jackson and Eli Jackson. She was preceded in death by two sons, Albert Ray Thode and Milton "Ernie" Thode; two sisters, Farafern Thornbury and Mona Mary Morton.
Services are July 20, 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Sterling with Rev. Marvin Ewertt presiding. Burial will be in Sterling Community Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.

Daniel Scott "Danny" Bortzfield

Daniel Scott "Danny" Bortzfield died July 17, 2010, as the result of a motorcycle accident.
Born Feb. 20, 1985, in Lewisville, Texas, he was the son of Donald K. Bortzfield and Denise Childs.
A Sterling resident for 20 years, he attended the Sterling school system.
He was a maintenance worker for the Plaza Go Truck Stop in South Hutchinson.
He was a member of the United Methodist Church and N.R.A.
Survivors include father, Donald K. Bortzfield of Arlington; mother, Denise Childs of South Hutchinson; step-father, Doug Haltom of Rush Center; brothers, William Bortzfield of Hutchinson, Charlie Bortzfield of Phoenix, Ariz., and Spencer Haltom of Rush Center; sisters, Shelby Haltom of Great Bend and Brinna Haltom of Rush Center; niece and nephew Titus and Kyndahl Bortzfield; grandparents, Jeanine Lott of Tulsa, Okla., Gerald Parker of South Hutchinson, and Pam Haltom. He was preceded in death by a sister, Nikki Lee Brtzfield, grandparents, William Clair, “Bill” Bortzfield, Helen Parker and Dwight Haltom.
Services are July 23, 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Sterling with Rev. Marvin Ewertt officiating. Burial will be in Alden Valley Cemetery. Visitation is July 22, 2-7 p.m., at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
Memorials are suggested to the Daniel Bortzfield Memorial Fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.

Don E. "Si" Simon

Don E. "Si" Simon died July 15, 2010, at Buhler Sunshine Home. He was 71.
The son of Joseph August and Florence Celestine Griem Simon was born Oct. 15, 1938, in Kansas City, Mo.
He graduated from Mulvane High School in 1956 and attended Hutchinson Community College.
He was a machine technician, working for Master Machine and retiring in 2006 from A.E.I. He was a member of the Salt Hawk Archery Club and several bowling leagues.
On June 1, 1957, he married Wanda Marie Hayes in Mulvane. She survives.
Other survivors include daughters, Laurie White and husband Philip of Geneseo, Leslie Wilmore and husband Sam of Whitewater, Dawn Stauffer and husband Mike of Topeka; son, Mike Simon and wife Jodi of Hutchinson; brothers, Larry Simon of Galveston, Texas, and Fred Simon of Mulvane; sister, Mary Zavala of Wichita; 16 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Mike and Phillip; grandson, Christian Simon; and a great-grandson, Mason Holm.
Funeral services are July 20, 10 a.m., at Elliott Mortuary Chapel in Hutchinson with Rev. Dr. Kim Biery presiding. Graveside service will be 3 p.m. Tuesday at Mulvane Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of Kansas, Buhler Sunshine Home or CurePSP, all in care of the mortuary. Visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a personal message for the family.

Bobby Joe Hale

Bobby Joe Hale died July 18, 2010, at the District Hospital in Lyons at the age of 72.
Born March 30, 1938, in Ft. Lupton, Colo., he was the son of Roy and Verda Bomgardner Hale.
A Lyons resident since 1987, he was formerly of Hill City. He graduated from Hill City High School.
On Nov. 11, 1970, he married Arline N. Harris in Denver, Colo. She survives. He was preceded in death by his parents.
He was a retired appraiser for the state of Kansas.
Cremation has taken place and there will be no service at this time.
Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons is in charge of local arrangements.

Phyllis Tappen Caldwell

Phyllis Tappen Caldwell died July 17, 2010, at Newton Medical Center. She was 85.
Born March 10, 1925, in Great Bend, she was the daughter of Fred Dale Brough and Eula Waterman.
She is survived by her son, Bruce and Twila Tappen of Peabody; five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Herbert Tappen and husband Keith Caldwell, son Frank Tappen/ and half-brother Bob Simer.
Funeral services will be July 21, 10 a.m. at Petersen Funeral Home Chapel in Newton with Ted Veer presiding. Burial will be at 2 p.m. in the Lyons Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association in care of Petersen Funeral Home.

Updated 7/9/10

Geraldine Elizabeth Creighton Bredfeldt

Geraldine Elizabeth Creighton Bredfeldt died July 3, 2010, at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. She was 89.
She was born Sept. 12, 1920, in Hattiesburg, Miss., to Harry and Grace Creighton.
Geri attended Bushton Rural High School, where she met and later married Willis (Jess) Bredfeldt on May 29, 1941.
She taught school both before and during World War II. She volunteered as a United Services Organization hostess during World War II. After Jess returned home, she became a homemaker, raising their son John and daughter Mary Margaret.
Survivors include son, John and wife Jan of Macon, Ga., son-in-law Steve Sherman and wife Joan of Lenexa; four grandchildren, Bryan and Jason Bredfeldt and Margaret and Rebecca Sherman and sister, Mary Pauline Creighton. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Mary Sherman, and husband, Willis.
Funeral services were July 6 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Burial was at Bushton Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Jennie Van Der Sloot

Jennie Van Der Sloot died July 2, 2010, at the Lyons Good Samaritan Center at the age of 96.
Born July 31, 1913, in Hull, Iowa, she was the daughter of Ralph J. and Jennie Van De Weerd Kooiker.
On March 10, 1932, she married Egbert Van Der Sloot in Canton, S.D. He died March 4, 1988.
A housewife and school and restaurant cook, she moved to Lyons in 1990 from Cleghorn, Iowa.
She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Faith Branch UMW, Sorrosis Club, former board member of Lyons Senior Center, Good Samaritan Center volunteer, all of Lyons.
Survivors include son, Kenneth Van Der Sloot and wife Gale of Kingman, Ariz.; daughter, Marlene Gloss and husband Jim of Livingston, Texas; brothers, Henry Kooiker of Bell Flower, Calif., and Arthur Kooiker of Hull, Iowa; sister, Maxine Napier of Muskogee, Okla.; seven grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, John, Edwin and Elmer Kooiker; sister Harriet Van Batavia and one great-grandson.
Graveside services will be at a later date in Hull, Iowa.
Memorials may be made to Lyons Good Samaritan Center Society in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

John R. Rodriquez

John R. Rodriquez died July 6 2010, at the Good Samaritan Center in Lyons. He was 84.
He was born Jan. 8, 1926 in Pearl City, Hawaii.
He was married to Patricia A. Rearick and they later divorced.
He was retired U.S. Air Force and worked as an extruder operator for CertainTeed Plastics in McPherson.
A Lyons resident since 2004, he also lived in McPherson and Lindsborg.
Survivors include sons, Michael Rodriquez of Lindsborg, Anthony Rodriquez of Lyons, Steven Rodriquez of McPherson and Daniel Rodriquez of Omaha, Ark.; daughters, Maria Starr and Linda Rodriquez, both of McPherson, and Regina Wynn of Haysville; 25 grandchildren and 18 great-great-grandchildren.
Services are July 10, 10:30 a.m. at Stockham Family Funeral Home in McPherson with Pastor Michael Hambley officiating. Burial will be in Smoky Hill Cemetery in Lindsborg with military honors conducted by the McConnell Air Force Base Honor Guard. Visitation is Friday from 3-8 p.m. at Stockham Family Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m.
Memorials may be made to McPherson County Humane Society or the Lyons Good Samaritan Center in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.stockhamfamily.com

Linda Marie Sides

Overland Park resident Linda Marie Sides passed away June 30, 2010, at Kansas City Hospice House at the age of 58.
She was born Jan. 29, 1952, in Dearborn, Mich., to Murrel L. and Louise M. Barley Sides.
She graduated from Lyons High School in 1970 and moved to Gardner in 1971. She worked as a medical records DRG coordinator/coder for Health Midwest. She belonged to local and state medical records associations.
Survivors include niece, Tina Sigman, and nephew, Danny Sides.
Services were July 6 at Bruce Funeral home in Gardner. Burial was in Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens in Olathe.
Memorials may be made to KC Hospice House or National Kidney Foundation.
Condolences may be sent to www.brucefuneralhome.com.

Douglas Wallace Salter

Former Alden resident Douglas Wallace Salter died July 3, 2010, at Via Christi St. Joseph Hospital in Wichita at the age of 56.
The son of Norman and Nina Wallace Salter was born Feb. 3, 1954, in Liberty, Mo.
He graduated from Chase High School in 1972.
A Wichita resident for 30 years, he was a machinist for various aviation companies in Wichita.
He was a member of United Methodist Church in Alden.
Survivors include mother, Nina of Alden; twin brother, Richard "Dick" and wife Peggy Salter of Sterling; nephew, Zachery Salter of Sterling; nieces Jessica Claussen of Kearney, Neb., and Heather Lang and husband, Craig of Burrton; four great-nephews and one great-niece. He was preceded in death by his father, Norman, and grandparents, Ira and Ella Wallace and Clint and May Salter.
Services were July 6 at the United Methodist Church in Alden with Rev. Dr. Quentin Bennett officiating. Burial was in Alden Valley Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.

Josephine "Jo" Minor

Longtime Lyons resident Josephine "Jo" Minor died July 5, 2010, at Hospice House in Hutchinson at the age of 74.
The daughter of Tony and Josephine Martino Como was born Aug. 20, 1935, in Kansas City, Mo.
She graduated from Glennon Catholic High School in Kansas City, Mo.
On March 10, 1956, she married Irvin "Red" Minor in Kansas City, Mo. He died Oct. 24, 2006.
She was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Lyons and Lyons Town and Country Club.
A homemaker, she was a former proof reader for the Lyons Daily News.
Survivors include sons, Tim Minor of Hutchinson and Jim Minor of Lyons; daughter, Kim Meehan and husband Dennis of Olathe; sister, Pat Strong of Colorado Springs, Colo; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Steve Como.
Funeral mass was July 8 at St. Paul Catholic Church in Lyons with Father Daniel Lorimer officiating. Burial was in Lyons Municipal Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Kidney Foundation or Hospice House in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Anna M. Hawkins

Funeral services for Anna M. Hawkins were July 8 in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home in Manhattan with the Rev. Don Zimmerman officiating. Burial was in Valley View Memorial Gardens in Manhattan.
Mrs. Hawkins died July 5 at Via Christi Village in Manhattan. She was 80.
On Jan. 5, 1948, she married Robert M. Hawkins in Great Bend. He died Dec. 3, 2001.
A former Lyons resident, she worked as a nurse's aid at the District Hospital in Lyons, as a production worker at the El-Kan Manufacturing Plant in Ellsworth, a crossing guard for the Lyons school district and did housework and janitorial duties for the Lyons Manufacturing Company. She was a Manhattan resident since 2000.
Survivors include daughters, Sherry L. Sheridan of Rensselaer, N.Y., Georgia M. Mulanax of Manhattan, Bessie A. Day of Wamego and Susie E. Burt of Great Bend; a sister, Evelyn Waldschmidt of Hays; 15 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association in care of the funeral home. Online condolences can be sent to www.irvinparkview.com.

Updated 7/2/10

Vera R. Byard

Lifetime area resident Vera R. Byard died June 29, 2010, at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River. She was 98.
The daughter of Joseph H. and Jessie M. Clark Hubbard was born Jan. 26, 1912, at Coffeyville.
She graduated from Lyons High School in 1928. A homemaker, she was a member of First Christian Church of Lyons; attended United Methodist Church and Senior Center, both of Little River; Mitchell EHU and various other clubs.
On Aug. 1, 1934, she married Edward P. Byard in Little River. He died Dec. 19, 1991.
Survivors include son, Ken Byard and wife Shirley of Lyons; six grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Jack Byard.
Services were July 1 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Grant Davis officiating. Burial was in Lyons Municipal Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Little River Senior Center in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Updated 6/29/10

Norma Lois Sidwell

Former Lorraine resident Norma Lois Sidwell died June 28, 2010, at Catholic Care Center in Bel Aire. She was 82.
The daughter of Ben H. and Ethel N. Payne Ogden was born March 30, 1928.
A 1946 graduate of Lorraine High School, she attended nurses training at Wesley Hospital in Wichita.
On Dec. 28, 1948, she married Louis W. Sidwell in Lyons. He died Jan. 20, 1993.
A farm wife, she moved to Wichita in 1993. She was a member of the former Frederick Baptist church and Calvary Baptist Church in Sterling and Gideon International.
Survivors include sons, Dennis Sidwell and wife Marci and Dean Sidwell, both of Wichita, and Doug Sidwell and wife Carol of Valley Center; daughters, Sherry Schroeder and husband Jim of Brookings, S.D., and Cindy Lundstrom and husband Ted of Hutchinson; brother, Alvin Ogden of Overland Park; half-brothers, Bret Suiter of Maize, Ted Suiter of Connecticut, and Carl Suiter of Florida; 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a half-sister, Elnora Campbell.
Funeral services will be Friday, 10:30 a.m., at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Joel Grizzle officiating. Burial will be in Frederick Cemetery. Visitation is from 2-7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home with the family present from 5-7 p.m.
Memorials may be made to Gideon International in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

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Updated 6/22/10

Thomas E. Harkrader

Lifetime Lyons resident Thomas E. Harkrader died June 16, 2010, at his Lyons residence. He was 68.
Born June 7, 1942, in Lyons, he was the son of Melvin R. and Margaret E. Turner Harkrader.
He graduated from Lyons High School and Fort Hays State University with a bachelor's degree in clinical psychology.
He was a retired welder for North American Salt in Lyons.
He was a member of the VFW and American Legion, both of Lyons; Sons of the American Revolution; International Brotherhood of Chemical Workers, Alumni Association of Fort Hays State University. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving during the Vietnam War.
Survivors include brother, Ron and Betty Harkrader of Lyons; nephew Greg and Jamie Harkrader of Manhattan, and Aunt Shirley and Wayne Caruthers of Geneseo. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Services are June 26, 10:30 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Robert Friesen officiating. Burial will be in Lyons Municipal Cemetery with Military honors by the U.S. Navy.
Memorials may be made to the Bell and Star Fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Updated 6/15/10

Nina G. Schafer

Lifetime Alden and Sterling resident Nina G. Schafer died June 13, 2010, at the Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was 94.
Born June 13, 1916, near Alden, she was the daughter of William Spurgeon and Mary Elizabeth Proffitt Stout.
She graduated from Alden High School in 1934 and attended beauty school in Wichita.
On July 15, 1936, she married Floyd K. Schafer in Sterling. He died Feb. 14, 2001.
A housewife, she was a member of Alden Baptist Church where she was a longtime Sunday school teacher.
Survivors include daughter Betty Keating and son-in-law Max Dunlevy of Overland Park; sisters-in-law, Frances Stout of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Geneva Engelland of Lyons. She was preceded in death by a son, Scott Schafer; sisters, Vada Fabin and Frances Biggs; and brothers, Eldon Stout, Lowel Stout, John Stout and Robert "Jim" Stout.
Funeral will be June 16, 10:30 a.m., at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with Rev. Kendal Conner officiating. Burial will be in Alden Valley Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 9 a.m. until service time.
Memorials may be made to Felix and Fido Rescue Fund at Ark Veterinary Clinic in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.

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Updated 6/8/10

Dorothy Mary Kimble

Former Alden elementary teacher Dorothy Mary Kimble died June 6, 2010, at Ellinwood District Hospital at the age of 90.
Born May 4, 1920, in Galva, she was the daughter of Harvey and Elizabeth Aelmore Elmore.
An Ellinwood resident for more than 50 years, she also taught in Ellinwood and Nickerson. She graduated from Galva High School and Sterling College.
On Jan. 24, 1942, she married Chester Kimble in Salina. He survives.
She was a member of United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, and Barton County Retired Teachers Association.
Other survivors include sons, Dr. James Kimble of Birmingham, Ala., and Kirk Kimble of Wichita; daughter, Kathy Harris of Winfield; brother, Paul Elmore of McPherson; sisters, Virginia Allen of Clearwater, Fla., and Pauline Schnorr of Bethany, Okla.; seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, one step-grandson and two step-great-grandsons. She was preceded in death by a brother, William Elmore.
Services are Thursday, 10:30 a.m., at United Methodist Church in Ellinwood with Rev. John Schmitt officiating. Burial will be in Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. Visitation is Wednesday from 1-8 p.m. at Kimble Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 6-7 p.m.
Memorials may be made to Ellinwood United Methodist Church or the American Cancer Society.

Updated 6/4/10

Jalane M. Nelson

Funeral services for Jalane M. Nelson were June 2, 2010, at Andover Lutheran Church in Windom with Rev. Thomas Hallowell officiating. She died May 28 at Hospice House in Hutchinson at the age of 43.
The daughter of Jerry Wayne Merrill and Frances Merlene Townley was born July 22, 1966, in McPherson.
She was a 1984 graduate of Little River High School and graduated from Hutchinson Community College and Sterling College. She served in the U.S. Army from 1986 to 1990.
On April 29, 1991, she married Philip T. Nelson at Andover Lutheran Church near Windom. He survives.
Other survivors include sons, Justin, Jonah and Jacob of the home; parents, Jerry Merrill of McPherson and Merlene Halbert of Hutchinson; grandmothers, Vesta Merrill of McPherson and Frances Townley of Ponca City, Okla.; brother, Shawn Merrill of Hutchinson; sister, Barbra Sauer of Mt. Hope; father and mother-in-law, Verlyn and Wanda Nelson of Windom.
Inurnment was in Andover Cemetery with military burial honors.
Memorials may be made to Andover Lutheran Church or Hospice House in Hutchinson, in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 N. Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.

J.D. Gilmer

Funeral services for J.D. Gilmer of Ellinwood were June 2, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Ellinwood. Private inurnment will be at a later date. Gilmer died May 28 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Topeka at the age of 81.
Born Aug. 3, 1928 in Larmar County, Ala., he was the son of Bernice and Ruby Lee Woods Gilmer. He was a 1946 graduate of Ellinwood High School and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was stationed on Okinawa.
He was the retired owner of Pride International Janitorial Supply.
Survivors include daughters, Leslie Wayman of Burlington, Iowa, and Lindsey Pendry of Lawrence; brother, Bernie Gilmer of Indianapolis, Ind.; and four grandchildren.
The family suggests memorials to the Parkinson Disease Research Foundation or the American Legion Club Room in Ellinwood, and may be sent in care of the Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence.
Online condolences may be sent to www.warrenmcelwain.com.

Vernon A. Taylor

Vernon A. Taylor died June 2, 2010, at Lake Point Nursing Rehabilitation Center in Rose Hill. He was 99.
The son of Frank and Ethyl M. Forsyth Taylor was born Dec. 17, 1910, near Ensign.
He graduated from Alden High School. He was a longtime resident of southwest of Sterling.
On Jan. 8, 1933, he married Bernese Elliott in Sedgwick. She died Dec. 18, 2001.
He was a member of Alden United Methodist Church.
Survivors include grandson, Joel Brian Taylor and caregivers Glenn and Shirley Elliott Hoppock. He was preceded in death by a son, Dennis Taylor; brothers, Milton, Faye and Glenn Taylor, and sister, Hazel Kroening.
Services will be Monday, 10 a.m., at the Alden United Methodist Church with Pastor Nancy Proffitt officiating. Burial will be in Penwell Gabel Cemetery in Hutchinson.
Memorials may be made to Alden United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.

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Updated 5/28/10

Evelyn Virginia Engelland

Lifetime Sterling resident Evelyn Virginia Engelland died May 26, 2010, at Presbyterian Manor in Sterling. She was 94.
The daughter of John Orion and Mary Eva Stout Stubbs was born July 20, 1915, in Sterling.
She graduated from Sterling High School in 1931. She was a homemaker and farm wife.
On April 22, 1934, she married Alvin Jurgen Engelland in Sterling. He died June 10, 2004.
She was a member of Midland Community United Church of Christ, Queen Esther Chapter 32 Order of Eastern Star, Past Matron of Keystone Chapter 47, all of Sterling.
Survivors include sons, John A. Engelland and wife Judy of Sterling, James D. Engelland and wife Sue of Fort Worth, Texas, Richard D. Engelland and wife Noreen of Chipley, Fla., and Rodney A. Engelland and wife Barbara of Shawnee; daughter, Betty L. Seely and husband Marlin of Newton; 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Robert L. Engelland; infant daughter, Janeth Engelland; granddaughter, Loreen M. Engelland; two brothers, Percy Stubbs and Lurton Stubbs; three sisters, Bernadine Steierl, Esther Horton and Phyllis Ward.
Funeral services are 10:30 a.m. May 29 at Midland Community United Church of Christ in rural Sterling with Rev. Robert Smith officiating. Burial will be in Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation is from 5-7 p.m. Friday at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling with the family present.
Memorials are suggested to Midland Community United Church of Christ or Meals on Wheels in care of the funeral home.

Updated 5/25/10

Richard LeRoy Leatherberry Jr.

Richard LeRoy Leatherberry Jr. died May 21, 2010, at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was 49.
The son of Richard LeRoy Sr. and Isabella Eby Leatherberry was born Dec. 16, 1960, in Mesa, Ariz.
A Lyons resident for one and a half years, he was formerly of Dewey, Ariz. He was mine superintendent for Lyons Salt Company.
On Jan. 2, 1997, he married Kimberly Contreras in Safford, Ariz. She survives.
He was a member of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints, Certified M.S.H.A. instructor, and Boy Scouts of America.
Other survivors include sons, Brandon Scott Leatherberry of Lehi, Utah, Jonathan Goodman of Virginia Beach, Vir., Christopher Goodman of Bremerton, Wash., Bryan Goodman of Oceanside, Calif., Brandon Lee Leatherberry, Richard Leatherberry III, Tyler Leatherberry, all of the home; daughters, Chantale Leatherberry-Tiatia of Orem, Utah and Tassady Goodman of McDonough, Ga.; mother Isabella Leatherberry of Phoenix, Ariz.; sisters, Vickie Swearingin of Dewey, Ariz., Debbie Leatherberry of Phoenix, Ariz., Janice Braun of Exira, Iowa, and Joann Weber of Wisconsin; and 12 grandchildren.
Services will be May 25, 10 a.m. at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
Memorials may be made to children's college education fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Jerry Hannah Jr.

Jerry Hannah Jr. died May 19, 2010, in Lakewood, Colo., at the age of 52. He was born Aug. 6, 1957, in Great Bend.
He attended Topeka West High School and the University of Kansas. He was in medical equipment sales and hotel management in Avon, Colo.
Survivors include daughters, Ashley Hannah and Elizabeth Hannah of Shelbyville, Ky.; father, Jerry Hannah Sr. of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and sister, Kathleen Waugh of Houston, Texas. He was a nephew of Dan Hannah of Lyons.
A private celebration will be at a later date.
Donations may be made to the Hospice of St. John, Lakewood, Colo., or a charity of the donor's choice.

Jimmie A. Keller

Jimmie A. Keller, 63, passed away peacefully on Jan. 8, 2010, at his winter residence in Wellton, Ariz.
He was born May 20, 1946, in Lyons to Alex and Linda Keller.
He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam. He was passionate about living life to the fullest and had traveled all over the world. He was a 1964 graduate of Lyons High School and a member of the Grace Lutheran Church in Lyons.
He is survived by his brother Dick Keller of Payson, Ariz., nephew, Kevin Keller of Cottonwood Falls; niece, Janice and her husband, Bryan Williams of Shawnee; great-nephew Alec Keller of Cottonwood Falls; sisters-in-law, Allison Keller of Shawnee and Corrine Keller of Cottonwood Falls. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jerry Keller. He leaves behind a multitude of friends all over the world. We will miss him dearly.
A memorial service will take place May 28, 2 p.m., at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Mike Herzberg officiating. Burial will be in Lyons Municipal Cemetery with military honors by U.S. Marine Corp honor guard.
Memorials may be made to Grace Lutheran Church or Lyons Public Library in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

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Updated 5/21/10

Gwendoline Mae McKnight

Gwendoline Mae McKnight, 101, passed away peacefully Saturday evening, May 15 at her daughter and son-in-law’s home in Moretown, Vt. Born in Brookville on December 2, 1908, the fourth oldest of 10 children to Maude (Loder) and Burton Vosburg, she grew up on the family farm a few miles from Brookville in the Smoky Hills region of Kansas.
Gwen attended grammar school at a one-room schoolhouse several miles from the farm. She graduated from Brookville High School in 1928 and was voted most popular girl by her classmates.
As a young girl Gwen traveled by horse and buggy into town for piano lessons. She enjoyed playing piano, especially hymns, well into her later years.
On June 30, 1929 she married her high school sweetheart, Vernon McKnight, who had been born in Brookville the day after her on December 3, 1908. They were married for 52 years, until Vernon's passing in 1981. Gwen was also predeceased by a stillborn daughter; all nine of her brothers and sisters; and her devoted dachshund, Benji.
Gwen spent the early years of her marriage being a homemaker and full time mom and helping her husband run several fabric stores in central Kansas. They later moved to North Carolina and she worked in a large department store where she became a divisional manager in charge of several departments. She retired in 1976 and she and Vernon moved back to Lyons.
She is survived by her son, Dennis McKnight and his wife Sharon of Lewisville, N.C.; her daughter Dianne McKnight-Warren and her husband Andrew Warren of Moretown, Vt.; and many nieces and nephews.
Gwen will be buried May 24, 1:30 p.m., in the Lyons Municipal Cemetery next to her beloved husband Vernon. Rev. Quentin Bennett will officiate. Visitation is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 24 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
Memorials may be made to Lyons United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Updated 5/18/10

John D. Base

John D. Base died May 13, 2010, at his Sterling residence. He was 73.
Born Nov. 6, 1936, in Inman, he was the son of John and Ada VanDeest Base.
A longtime rural Sterling resident, he was formerly of Reno County.
He graduated from Buhler High School and worked at Johnson's Sheet Metal and various other jobs. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during the Korean War.
Survivors include brother, Carl Base of Hutchinson; sister Gloria Hostetter of Jacksonville, Fla.,; and brother-in-law Jim Smith of Sterling. He was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Smith and brother, Gary Base.
Graveside services and burial will be Friday, 1 p.m., at Penwell-Gable Cemetery in Hutchinson with Pastor Luke Helmuth officiating.
Memorials are suggested to the John D. Base Memorial Fund.

Adela Martinez

Former Lyons resident Adela Martinez died May 10, 2010, at Medicalodge in Kinsley at the age of 82.
The daughter of Crecencio and Felisitas Coronado Martinez was born Dec. 16, 1927 in Lyons.
A homemaker, she was a longtime Kinsley resident. She was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Lyons.
Survivors include brother, Manuel Martinez of Wichita; sisters, Juaquina Gutierrez of Kanopolis, Mary Rodriquez of Ellsworth, Rachel Martinez of McPherson, Angelita Moreno of Albuquerque, N.M., and Ramona Harge of Wichita. She was preceded in death by brothers, John, Tony, Connie, and Pedro "Pete" Martinez; and sister, Andrea Martinez.
Graveside services and burial will be Thursday, 11 a.m., at Lyons Municipal Cemetery with Father Daniel Lorimer officiating.
Memorials may be made to St. Paul Catholic Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Updated 5/14/10

Mary N. Imel

Mary N. Imel died May 11, 2010, at the District Hospital in Lyons at the age of 85.
The daughter of James Malon and Ida Etta Fry Pennel was born March 10, 1925, in Turon.
Formerly of Sylvia, she was a Lyons resident for 30 years.
On June 6, 1980, she married Jake Imel in Hutchinson. He survives.
An Avon representative for 32 years, she cooked at several restaurants. She was a member of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Hutchinson, VFW Auxiliary in Lyons and Pencil Collector's Society of America.
Other survivors include sons, Joseph Schwab of Zenith, Ray Schwab of Turon, Rusty Schwab of Sterling, and George Schwab and Kenneth Schwab, both of Sylvia; daughters, Georgia Bennett and Sandra Schwab, both of Turon, Roxanna Schwab of Pampa, Texas, and Dorothy Marlow of Sylvia; step-son Paul Imel of Hutchinson; step-daughter Marie Nickel of Mercedes, Texas; brother, Marion Pennel of Hutchinson; sisters, Viola Carmichael of Lyons, Ramona Rescoe of Rapid City, Mich., Etta Taylor and Juanita Pritchard, both of Hutchinson, and Martha Harrington of Lake View, Ark., 37 grandchildren, 67 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Willard Pennel, Joe Pennel and Johnny Sutton; sister, Irene Ridge; and granddaughter, Holly Schwab.
Services will be May 14, 2 p.m., at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Bishop Gregory Perez officiating. Burial will be in Lyons Municipal Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of Kansas in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Louise Henderson

Louise Henderson died May 8, 2010, at the age of 70.
She was born in Lyons. She graduated from the University of Kansas with a bachelor's degree in elementary education and earned a master's degree and Ph.D in psychology from the University of North Texas. She was a clinical psychologist in Dallas before moving to Breckenridge, Colo.
Survivors include her husband, James H. Henderson of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and sons, James L. of Louisville, Colo., and Christopher of Dallas, Texas; and three grandchildren.
Graveside services will be in Louisville, Colo.

Updated 5/11/10

Gary L. McKenna

Gary L. McKenna died May 6, 2010, at his Hutchinson residence. He was 67.
Born Aug. 27, 1942, at Hutchinson, he was the son of Lawrence and Betty Cole McKenna.
On June 12, 1961, he married Landra Joy Stapleton at Raton, N.M. She died Aug. 11, 1998.
A former Lyons resident, he moved to Hutchinson in 2003. He was a vacuum system operator at North American Salt in Lyons.
Survivors include sons, Jerry McKenna of Claflin and Mark McKenna of Emporia; daughters, Gayla Godfrey of Lyons and Lisa Hauptman of Topeka; mother, Betty McKenna of Hutchinson; sister, Beverly Williams of West Point, Iowa; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father; brother, Dennis McKenna.
There will be no service. Private family burial will be at Fairlawn Cemetery in Hutchinson.
Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of Kansas in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Elvin James "Curly" Mullin

Elvin James "Curly" Mullin died May 6, 2010, at his Lyons residence. He was 66.
Born Feb. 21, 1944, in El Dorado, he was the son of Thomas Harlo and Maggie Doublin Mullin.
Formerly of Augusta, he was a Lyons resident for more than 30 years. He recently retired from ECI Delivery.
He was a member of Masonic Lodge of Lyons and Shriners.
Survivors include longtime companion Jessie Marlene McDaniels of the Home; five brothers, Thomas Verlin Mullin of Augusta, Russell Mullin of Towanda, Lloyd Mullin, Harley Mullin and Gayle Mullin, all of Wichita; and two sisters, Joyce Fletcher and Leota Weast, both of Wichita. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Peggy Whisman; infant brother, Melvin Mullin; and step-mother, Dorothy Mullin.
Graveside service and burial will be May 11, 1:30 p.m., at Sterling Community Cemetery with Masonic graveside service conducted by Jim Speakman.
Memorials may be made to Shriner's Hospital in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

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Updated 5/7/10

Lois K. Janssen

Lois K. Janssen died May 4, 2010, at the Good Samaritan Center in Ellsworth at the age of 94.
The daughter of Adolph David and Lena Gray Kimple, she was born May 23, 1915, near Pollard. She was a lifetime area resident.
She graduated from Lyons High School in 1934 and received her teaching certificate from Sterling College. She was a former school teacher and farm housewife.
On July 30, 1941, she married Willard F. Janssen in Lyons. He died July 12, 2005.
She was a member of United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women and a former member of Ladies Thanksgiving Club, all of Geneseo.
Survivors include daughter, Janet Splitter of Lorraine; sons, Justin Janssen and wife Mary of Alma, Jeffrey Janssen and wife Linda of Geneseo, and Jack Janssen and wife Roxie of Geneseo; brother, Keith Kimple of Lyons; 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by son-in-law Melvin Splitter; brothers, A.J. Kimple, Chester Kimple and Stanley Kimple; and sister, Frances Tobias.
Services will be May 7, 10:30 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Geneseo with Rev. Ticia Bennett presiding. Burial will be in Geneseo Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Geneseo United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Martha Annette Schmidt Kassin

Services for former Chase resident Martha Annette Schmidt Kassin were May 1, 2010, at the Friendly Baptist Church in Branson, Mo. She passed away April 28, 2010, at her Branson home. She was 67.
Born Oct. 24, 1942, in Great Bend, she was the daughter Edward and Shirley Schmidt.
She graduated from Chase High in 1960 and Dominican School of Nursing in 1963. She worked as an oncology nurse for 30 years.
On Nov. 18, 1980, she married Jerry Kassin in Hutchinson. He survives.
Other survivors include daughters, Stephanie Rogers of Wichita and Lexie Barling of Kansas City; step-daughter Cheryl Harris of Paducah, Ky.; step-son, Steven of Lenexa; mother, Shirley Schmidt of Chase; siblings, Curtis Schmidt, Margaret Snyder, Debby Steffan, Doug Schmidt and Denice Sledd; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
A memorial service for Mrs. Kassin will be May 16, 1 p.m., at the Chase Presbyterian Church.
Memorials may be made to the Friendly Baptist Church Building Fund, 2751 Kirkland Drive, Branson, MO 65616.

James "Jim" W. Cross

Lifetime Alden community resident James "Jim" W. Cross died May 5, 2010, at Great Bend Health and Rehabilitation. He was 91.
Born July 10, 1918, in rural Rice County, he was the son of William L. and Cora Miller Cross.
On Aug. 11, 1940, he married Mary A. Belden in Alden. She died Aug. 29, 1994.
A retired farmer, he was a member of United Methodist Church and Alden Booster Club, both of Alden.
Survivors include daughter, Kathy Ricker and husband Clyde of Raymond; grandchildren, Mark and Tricia Ricker of Raymond, and Ryan and Kristin Ricker of Overland Park, and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Nancy Jo Cross.
Services are May 10, 10:30 a.m., at United Methodist Church in Alden with Rev. Debbie Grossardt Arvelo officiating. Burial will be in Alden Valley Cemetery. Visitation is from 2-5 p.m. May 9 at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
Memorials may be made to Alden United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.
Lyons News
May 7, 2010

Shirley Lorraine Emmons

Shirley Lorraine Emmons, 75, entered her earthly life on Sept. 14, 1934, to Bryon and Helen Gray in Quenemo. She left her earthly life on May 1, 2010, to have tea with the angels.
Mom was first and foremost a homemaker. She retired from Fuller Brush in Great Bend.
She was preceded in death by a son, James Emmons; father, Bryon Gray; and brother, Duane Gray.
She is survived by sons, William (Judy) of Derby, and Brian (LeeAnn) of Ellsworth; daughters, Katherine Emmons of Lyons, Marie Ranker (Randy) of Ellsworth, and Carla Mick of Larned; 10 grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; mother, Helen Gary of Geneseo; brothers, Curtis (Patsy) of Marble Falls, Texas; and Frank (DeeAnn) of Beaver, Okla.
Celebration of life will be at Workman Park in Lyons, 1 p.m., on May 8, for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Brain Tumor Association or Hospice House in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501. Condolences may be left at www.eliottmortuary.com for Shirley's family.
Mom fell asleep not forever, just for the moment between the death of her body and the awakening of her spirit, in the light of grace where she became an angel.
Lyons News
May 7, 2010

Updated 5/4/10

Cutter Jaron Proffitt

Lifetime Sterling resident Cutter Jaron Proffitt died May 2, 2010, at Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita at the age of 8.
The son of Wiley and Tracy Kirby Proffitt was born April 9, 2002, in Lyons.
The first grade student at Sterling Elementary School was a member of Alden United Methodist Church. He attended Kids Camp and was in the summer baseball league.
Survivors include his parents, Wiley and Tracy Proffitt of the home; sister, Kynli Proffitt of the home; grandparents, Sondra and Ted Mueller of Wichita, Arlen "Butch" Proffitt and Nancy of Hutchinson, Connie Kirby of Sterling, and Steve and Tonya Kirby of St. John; great-grandmothers, Darlene McMurphy of Sterling, Wilma Kirby of Great Bend and Betty Goodman of Hutchinson; aunts and uncles, Jeremy and McKenzi Flickinger of Sterling, Daulton Kirby and Kayla Estes, both of St. John and Trever and Gayla Proffitt of Cunningham. He was preceded in death by great-grandparents, Keith and Thelma Kirby, Dean Goodman, Helen and Harold Proffitt, Marvin McMurphy and Glenn McMurphy.
Services are Thursday, 10:30 a.m., at United Methodist Church in Sterling with Revs. Bill Stapleton and Rev. Debbie Grossardt Arvelo officiating. Burial will be in Sterling Community Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Sterling Grade School Playground fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Shirley Lorraine Emmons

Shirley Lorraine Emmons, 75, entered her earthly life on Sept. 14, 1934, to Bryon and Helen Gray in Quenemo. She left her earthly life on May 1, 2010, to have tea with the angels.
Mom was first and foremost a homemaker. She retired from Fuller Brush in Great Bend.
She was preceded in death by a son, James Emmons; father, Bryon Gray; and brother, Duane Gray.
She is survived by sons, William (Judy) of Derby, and Brian (LeeAnn) of Ellsworth; daughters, Katherine Emmons of Lyons, Marie Ranker (Randy) of Ellsworth, and Carla Mick of Larned; 10 grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; mother, Helen Gary of Geneseo; brothers, Curtis (Patsy) of Marble Falls, Texas; and Frank (DeeAnn) of Beaver, Okla.
Celebration of life will be at Workman Park in Lyons, 1 p.m., on May 8, for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Brain Tumor Association or Hospice House in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501. Condolences may be left at www.eliottmortuary.com for Shirley's family.
Mom fell asleep not forever, just for the moment between the death of her body and the awakening of her spirit, in the light of grace where she became an angel.

Helen F. Stapleton

Helen F. Stapleton died May 2, 2010, at the Good Samaritan Center in Lyons at the age of 96.
The daughter of Wrennie Dan and Ethel Fry Hull was born April 15, 1914, in Caldwell.
A former Geneseo resident, she moved to Lyons in 1931. She graduated from Geneseo High School.
On Feb. 7, 1931, she married Elmer Stapleton in Great Bend. He died Feb. 10, 1980.
A surgical nurse, she retired from the District Hospital in Lyons. She was a member of United Methodist Church, VFW Auxiliary, both in Lyons.
Survivors include daughters, Patricia Ann Komarek of Hutchinson and Lila Lee Hopping of Oakland, Iowa; eight grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Eleanor Fern Perry; brothers, Dan Hull and Wrennie Hull; and two sisters, Alice Swanson and Maxine Hull.
Services are May 5, 2010, 10:30 a.m., at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Rev. Robert Friesen officiating. Burial will be in Lyons Municipal cemetery. Visitation is from 2-7 p.m. May 4 at Birzer Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to Hospice Care of Kansas or Good Samaritan Center in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

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Updated 4/30/10

Vester L. Near

Longtime Lyons resident Vester L. Near died April 29, 2010, at the Good Samaritan Center in Lyons.
The son of Benjamin LeRoy and Mary Helen Vester Near was born April 22, 1930, in Wichita.
He graduated from Lyons High School in 1950.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was a retired corrosion technician for Coastal Pipeline.
On Dec. 31, 1955, he married Delpha Nett in Lyons. They later divorced. On Nov. 4, 1989, he married Carol Moherman Good in Lyons. She survives.
He was a member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church, American Legion and Lyons Town and Country Club, all of Lyons, and Ducks Unlimited.
Other survivors include son, Curt Near and wife Cheryl of Mead; daughter, Koni Hendricks and husband Geno of Raymond; step-sons, Darrin Good and wife Vickie of Gardner, Mark Good and wife Irene of Austin, Texas; son-in-law, Mike Wooley and wife Christy of Ulysses; seven grandchildren, Jerimy and Janna Wooley, Bryn Wooley, Beau Near, Shari and Jared Vonfeldt, Kati Near, Dylin Near, Flynt Hendricks; four step-grandchildren, Scott Gootee, Stephanie Gootee, Milo Good, Joey Good; one great-grandchild, three step-great-grandchildren and two step-great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Keri Wooley.
Services are Monday, 1:30 p.m., at St. Marks Episcopal Church in Lyons. Father Charles Kerschen will preside. Burial will be in Lyons Municipal Cemetery with military honors by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Visitation is Sunday from 2-5 p.m. at Birzer Funeral Home with family receiving friends from 4-5 p.m.
Memorials may be made to Ducks Unlimited or Good Samaritan Center in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.

Updated 4/27/10

Nola Mikes

Nola Mikes died April 26, 2010, at Waldron Place in Hutchinson at the age of 88.
The daughter of Jerry and Maude Burroughs Webb was born March 5, 1921, in Alden.
On June 22, 1946, she married Raoul Mikes in Jacksonville, Fla. He died June 10, 1990.
She was co-owner of Mike's Motorcycle Shop in Jacksonville, Fla. In 1986 she moved from Jacksonville to Alden and has been in Hutchinson the last six years.
She was a member of First Baptist Church in Alden.
Survivors include two brothers, Kenneth Webb of Garnett and Murray Webb of Yuma, Ariz.; and a sister, Anita Wells of Pittsboro, Ind. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Loren Webb, Francis B. Webb and Dee Webb; and two sisters, Echo Stout and Opal Hoffman.
Services are April 29, 1:30 p.m., at First Baptist Church in Alden with Rev. Bob Bethell officiating. Burial will be in Alden Valley Cemetery. Visitation is from 2-5 p.m. Wednesday at Birzer Funeral Home in Sterling.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Alden, in care of the funeral home.

Updated 4/23/10

Dortha Mae Roelfs

Dortha Mae Roelfs went gently in her sleep to be in heavenly peace April 21, 2010, at the Good Samaritan Center in Lyons.
Born April 15, 1922, in Tyrone, Okla., she was the daughter of Ernest and Sarah Richey Elliott.
She graduated from Cassody High School in 1930 and attended Emporia State College.
On April 15, 1944, she married Harvey Earl Roelfs in Rozel. He died Feb. 8, 2000.
She was a retired clerk of the register of deeds office in Lyons and worked at Boeing in Wichita during World War II. She is a member of Salem United Methodist Church in rural Bushton.
Survivors include daughter, Pat Bonner of Andover; sisters-in-law, Pearl Roelfs of Lyons, Alice Roper of Manhattan, Barbara Elliott of Chandler, Ariz., and Gwen Elliott of Emporia. She was preceded in death by twin daughters, Rosetta Storment and Arnetta Rockwell; brothers, Edwin Elliott and John Elliott; and sisters, Josephine Elliott and Leatha Woodley.
Services are April 26, 1:30 p.m., at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with Pastor Rob Schmutz officiating. Burial will be in Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation is from 2-5 p.m. April 25 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons.
Memorials may be made to the Bell and Star Fund in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.
Lyons News
April 23, 2010

Updated 4/20/10

Timothy Dale Hoover

Timothy Dale Hoover died April 15, 2010, at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was 43.
The son of Dale and Delores L. Smith Hoover was born July 16, 1966, in Lyons.
The lifetime Rice County resident graduated from Sterling High School in 1984 and attended Sterling College. He was a former employee of Sterling College and a current student at the college.
On March 5, 2006, he married Tericina Carroll at Lyons. She survives.
Other survivors include his parents, Dale and Delores Hoover of Sterling; brothers, Larry Hoover of Colorado Springs, Colo., and David Hoover and wife Phyllis of Hutchinson; sisters, Gaylene Wilson of Hutchinson, Melody Conner and husband Craig of Lyons, and Dala Crosby and husband John of Kingsley, Mich.; many nieces and nephews; and special friends Bob and Betty Schirer. He was preceded in death by grandparents, Herbert C. and Tessie Mae Hoover, Orville and Beulah Crandall Smith Williams and Jerry Williams.
Funeral services were April 19 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons. Rev. Jerrod Adair and Rev. Oscar Gomez officiated. Burial was in Lyons Municipal Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to American Diabetes Association or Sterling College in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.
Lyons News
April 20, 2010

Patsy Jo Bieberle

Patsy Jo Bieberle died April 19, 2010, at the Ellinwood District Hospital at the age of 66.
She was born Oct. 28, 1943, in Lyons to Ed and Gladys Shephard Kelso.
The lifetime Rice and Barton county resident was employed at Cherry Village in Great Bend, Barton County Community College, Ellinwood Hospital, Woodhaven Care Center, WalMart and was owner of Bushton Cafe. She was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Ellinwood and Holy Name Parish in Bushton.
On Aug. 4, 1962, she married Pete Bieberle in Chase. He died Oct. 30, 2003.
Survivors include sons, Robert Bieberle of Colby and Roger Bieberle of Wichita; and daughter, Kristen Stout of Ellinwood; sister, Donna McCum of Tonganoxie; and eight grandchildren. She was preceded in death by four brothers and six sisters.
Services are April 22 at Holy Name Catholic Church in Bushton with Father Daniel Lorimer. Burial will be in Holy Name Cemetery in Bushton. Visitation is Wednesday from 1-5 p.m. at Kimple Funeral Home in Ellinwood. Rosaries are Wednesday, 3 p.m., with the Altar Society at Kimple Funeral Home and at 7 p.m. at Holy Name Church in Bushton.
Memorials may be made to the family memorial fund.

Dorothy Lee Griggs

Dorothy Lee Griggs died April 17, 2010, at Sandstone Heights Nursing Home in Little River at the age of 80.
The daughter of Young Allen and Sarah Ann Crouse Sprouse was born Dec. 28, 1929, in Great Bend.
A Little River resident since 2006, she was formerly of Mission, Texas. She was co-owner of a dry cleaning business.
On March 31, 1949, she married Loyd D. Griggs in Great Bend. He died March 29, 2003.
Survivors include nieces, Nancy Baldwin of Windom and Anne French of McPherson; nephews, Thomas Muth of Topeka and Tony Muth of Great Bend; and foster son, John Smith of Hutchinson. She was preceded in death by a brother, Sonny Sprouse; sister, Edna Muth; and two infant sisters.
Cremation has taken place and there will be no service. A private family burial will take place at Great Bend Cemetery.
Lyons News
April 20, 2010

Updated 4/16/10

Mary Lee Linke-Estill

Lifetime Rice County resident Mary Lee Linke-Estill died April 14, 2010, at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson at the age of 67.
The daughter of Marvin and Eloise Stringer Loutzenhiser was born Aug. 24, 1942, in Lyons.
She graduated from Bushton High School in 1960. She was a former employee of Lyons Foodliner, Raymond Junior High and Sterling Presbyterian Manor.
She was a member of Community Presbyterian Church in Chase, attended Sterling United Presbyterian Church; and Women's Bowling Association, involved on teams in Lyons and Ellinwood.
On Nov. 25, 1963, she married Ralph E. Linke in Chase. He died July 11, 2002. On May 28, 2009, she married Earl H. Estill in Sterling. He survives.
Other survivors include sons, Thomas L. Linke and wife Shelly and Joseph R. Linke and wife Tammy, both of Chase, and Matthew L. Linke and wife Debbie of Inman; step-children Tim Estill of Wichita, Lyn Davids of Lisbon, Iowa, and Carol Vickery of Wichita; brother, Boyd Loutzenhiser and wife Barb of Alden; sister, Neita Bruce of Oklahoma City, Okla.; best friend Joyce Brady of Chase; 15 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Graveside services will be April 17, 1 p.m., at Chase Springdale Cemetery with Dr. Earl H. Estill officiating. Burial will be in Chase Springdale Cemetery. Visitation is from 2-7 p.m. April 16 at Birzer Funeral Home in Lyons with family present from 5-7 p.m.; and from 9 until noon Saturday.
Memorials may be made to Cancer Council of Reno County in care of Birzer Funeral Home, PO Box 89, Lyons, KS 67554.
Lyons News
April 16, 2010

Updated 4/13/10

LaVeta Mae Pyatt