Dr. Christopher Robert Ross (Chris), age 69, of Manhattan, KS, died December 12, 2021 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, KS. Chris was born April 29, 1952, the second of four children to Robert and Virginia Scott Ross in Bethany, MO. He met his first wife, Rita Fichter Ross, at Hickman High School in Columbia, MO; they were married from 1974 to 2002, and they had two children, Emily and Thomas. As a young man, Chris lived and worked on his grandparents’ farm in Harrison County, MO. Inspired by his experiences there along with the books of veterinarian James Herriot, Chris earned his Bachelor’s degree followed by his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1981. After practicing in Fulton, MO, he returned to MU where he received his PhD in Physiology in 1990. He then researched and taught in the Department of Anatomy and Physiology at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine for the next 17 years. From 2007 until his retirement in 2021, Chris served at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine as Professor of Physiological Sciences, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, and finally Interim Dean. Chris was married on July 14, 2004 to Diane Barker of Manhattan, KS. They met at the Blue Valley Yacht Club on Tuttle Creek Lake, and enjoyed sailing, boat camping and racing. Chris was proud of winning the Scott Liebler Memorial Day Weekend Race in 2004, 2005 and 2006, and the Round the Buoy Chapman Series in 2005. Chris and Diane were happy to get out on the salt water and competed in the Sunfish Series at Davis Island Yacht Club on Tampa Bay. They cruised the San Juan Islands for a week with BVYC friends Marty and Harriet Ottenheimer and Jack and Jackie Holl, chartering a 3-stateroom Jeanneau, the Illumine, out of Bellingham, Washington. Chris was brilliant, witty, and loyal. He valued education, hard work, and learning by doing. He taught himself to sail, and built a new mast step and replaced the mast after a yacht club dismasting on Tuttle Creek Lake. Chris embodied his love of the outdoors as a leader in both Boy Scouts and Sea Scouts, and warmly recalled a particularly arduous and rewarding trek with son Thomas across Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. He enjoyed travel, and his work took him across the United States as well as to Canada, Italy, Afghanistan, and India. In recent years, he enjoyed remote fishing expeditions with Canada’s Kississing outfitters near Flin Flon, Manitoba. His passions and hobbies were widely varied and included cooking, gardening, furniture-making, politics, raising chickens, sheep, goats, and dogs, and entertaining his grandchildren. He was a voracious reader, ranging from the New York Times cooking section to Mark Twain, Calvin Trillin, and David Sedaris. He made a mean chili and loved the blues. He was a lifelong Democrat. Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Virginia Scott Ross. He is survived by wife Diane Barker, daughter Emily Yeager of Manhattan and son Thomas Ross (Chelsea) of Salina, and six grandchildren, George, Isaac, Lucy, Logan, Macie, and Dalton. Chris is also survived by siblings Scott (Meredith) of Maryville, MO, Anne of Higbee, MO, and Carter (Denise) of Columbia, MO. A memorial service will be held in his honor on Saturday, June 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the Unitarian-Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan on 481 Zeandale Rd., Manhattan, KS. Officiating will be Pastor Isabel Call. Memorial donations may be made to the University of Missouri Veterinary School, Graduating Class of 1981 at https://mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu/Item.aspx?item_id=553 The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com

Dr. Christopher Robert Ross (Chris), age 69, of Manhattan, KS, died December 12, 2021 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, KS. Chris was born April 29, 1952, the second of four children to Robert and Virginia Scott Ross in Bethany, MO. He met his first wife, Rita Fichter Ross, at Hickman High School in Columbia, MO; they were married from 1974 to 2002, and they had two children, Emily and Thomas. As a young man, Chris lived and worked on his grandparents’ farm in Harrison County, MO. Inspired by his experiences there along with the books of veterinarian James Herriot, Chris earned his Bachelor’s degree followed by his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1981. After practicing in Fulton, MO, he returned to MU where he received his PhD in Physiology in 1990. He then researched and taught in the Department of Anatomy and Physiology at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine for the next 17 years. From 2007 until his retirement in 2021, Chris served at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine as Professor of Physiological Sciences, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, and finally Interim Dean. Chris was married on July 14, 2004 to Diane Barker of Manhattan, KS. They met at the Blue Valley Yacht Club on Tuttle Creek Lake, and enjoyed sailing, boat camping and racing. Chris was proud of winning the Scott Liebler Memorial Day Weekend Race in 2004, 2005 and 2006, and the Round the Buoy Chapman Series in 2005. Chris and Diane were happy to get out on the salt water and competed in the Sunfish Series at Davis Island Yacht Club on Tampa Bay. They cruised the San Juan Islands for a week with BVYC friends Marty and Harriet Ottenheimer and Jack and Jackie Holl, chartering a 3-stateroom Jeanneau, the Illumine, out of Bellingham, Washington. Chris was brilliant, witty, and loyal. He valued education, hard work, and learning by doing. He taught himself to sail, and built a new mast step and replaced the mast after a yacht club dismasting on Tuttle Creek Lake. Chris embodied his love of the outdoors as a leader in both Boy Scouts and Sea Scouts, and warmly recalled a particularly arduous and rewarding trek with son Thomas across Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. He enjoyed travel, and his work took him across the United States as well as to Canada, Italy, Afghanistan, and India. In recent years, he enjoyed remote fishing expeditions with Canada’s Kississing outfitters near Flin Flon, Manitoba. His passions and hobbies were widely varied and included cooking, gardening, furniture-making, politics, raising chickens, sheep, goats, and dogs, and entertaining his grandchildren. He was a voracious reader, ranging from the New York Times cooking section to Mark Twain, Calvin Trillin, and David Sedaris. He made a mean chili and loved the blues. He was a lifelong Democrat. Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Virginia Scott Ross. He is survived by wife Diane Barker, daughter Emily Yeager of Manhattan and son Thomas Ross (Chelsea) of Salina, and six grandchildren, George, Isaac, Lucy, Logan, Macie, and Dalton. Chris is also survived by siblings Scott (Meredith) of Maryville, MO, Anne of Higbee, MO, and Carter (Denise) of Columbia, MO. A memorial service will be held in his honor on Saturday, June 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the Unitarian-Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan on 481 Zeandale Rd., Manhattan, KS. Officiating will be Pastor Isabel Call. Memorial donations may be made to the University of Missouri Veterinary School, Graduating Class of 1981 at https://mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu/Item.aspx?item_id=553 The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com

Dr. Christopher Robert Ross 

Richard Lee Petersen, age 83, of Manhattan, died Friday June 3, 2022 at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan. He was born on March 14, 1939 in Waterloo, Iowa, the son of LeRoy and Margaret (McHenry) Petersen. Richard attended schools in Waterloo and graduated with the class of 1957. He served in the U.S. Army and was Honorably discharged in 1960. Richard worked for many years as a truck driver for the Griffith Oil Company and later for the Farmers CO-OP. He enjoyed watching and being involved with the rodeo. He was a longtime member of the Kaw Valley Rodeo Association and served on the board for many years. On July 10, 1976 in Manhattan, he was united in marriage to Carol Osbourn. She survives at their home in Manhattan. He was preceded in death by his parents and also his brother, Stuart Petersen. Additional survivors include his children, Angela Priddle (Steve) of Manhattan and Chris May (Jamai) of Paola, Kansas; his sister, Wanda Holcomb, of Spokane, Washington; also, his grandchildren: Jordan Kocher and her husband Blair, of Manhattan, Jake Priddle and wife Hannah of Manhattan, Jace Priddle of Pender, Nebraska, and Josh Priddle of Manhattan; and his great-grandchildren: Finley and Landry Kocher, and Avery Priddle. Services for Mr. Petersen will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested in memory of Richard to the Kaw Valley Rodeo Association. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Richard Lee Petersen, age 83, of Manhattan, died Friday June 3, 2022 at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan. He was born on March 14, 1939 in Waterloo, Iowa, the son of LeRoy and Margaret (McHenry) Petersen. Richard attended schools in Waterloo and graduated with the class of 1957. He served in the U.S. Army and was Honorably discharged in 1960. Richard worked for many years as a truck driver for the Griffith Oil Company and later for the Farmers CO-OP. He enjoyed watching and being involved with the rodeo. He was a longtime member of the Kaw Valley Rodeo Association and served on the board for many years. On July 10, 1976 in Manhattan, he was united in marriage to Carol Osbourn. She survives at their home in Manhattan. He was preceded in death by his parents and also his brother, Stuart Petersen. Additional survivors include his children, Angela Priddle (Steve) of Manhattan and Chris May (Jamai) of Paola, Kansas; his sister, Wanda Holcomb, of Spokane, Washington; also, his grandchildren: Jordan Kocher and her husband Blair, of Manhattan, Jake Priddle and wife Hannah of Manhattan, Jace Priddle of Pender, Nebraska, and Josh Priddle of Manhattan; and his great-grandchildren: Finley and Landry Kocher, and Avery Priddle. Services for Mr. Petersen will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested in memory of Richard to the Kaw Valley Rodeo Association. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Richard Lee Petersen

Dr. Christopher Robert Ross (Chris), age 69, of Manhattan, KS, died December 12, 2021 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, KS. Chris was born April 29, 1952, the second of four children to Robert and Virginia Scott Ross in Bethany, MO. He met his first wife, Rita Fichter Ross, at Hickman High School in Columbia, MO; they were married from 1974 to 2002, and they had two children, Emily and Thomas. As a young man, Chris lived and worked on his grandparents’ farm in Harrison County, MO. Inspired by his experiences there along with the books of veterinarian James Herriot, Chris earned his Bachelor’s degree followed by his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1981. After practicing in Fulton, MO, he returned to MU where he received his PhD in Physiology in 1990. He then researched and taught in the Department of Anatomy and Physiology at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine for the next 17 years. From 2007 until his retirement in 2021, Chris served at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine as Professor of Physiological Sciences, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, and finally Interim Dean. Chris was married on July 14, 2004 to Diane Barker of Manhattan, KS. They met at the Blue Valley Yacht Club on Tuttle Creek Lake, and enjoyed sailing, boat camping and racing. Chris was proud of winning the Scott Liebler Memorial Day Weekend Race in 2004, 2005 and 2006, and the Round the Buoy Chapman Series in 2005. Chris and Diane were happy to get out on the salt water and competed in the Sunfish Series at Davis Island Yacht Club on Tampa Bay. They cruised the San Juan Islands for a week with BVYC friends Marty and Harriet Ottenheimer and Jack and Jackie Holl, chartering a 3-stateroom Jeanneau, the Illumine, out of Bellingham, Washington. Chris was brilliant, witty, and loyal. He valued education, hard work, and learning by doing. He taught himself to sail, and built a new mast step and replaced the mast after a yacht club dismasting on Tuttle Creek Lake. Chris embodied his love of the outdoors as a leader in both Boy Scouts and Sea Scouts, and warmly recalled a particularly arduous and rewarding trek with son Thomas across Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. He enjoyed travel, and his work took him across the United States as well as to Canada, Italy, Afghanistan, and India. In recent years, he enjoyed remote fishing expeditions with Canada’s Kississing outfitters near Flin Flon, Manitoba. His passions and hobbies were widely varied and included cooking, gardening, furniture-making, politics, raising chickens, sheep, goats, and dogs, and entertaining his grandchildren. He was a voracious reader, ranging from the New York Times cooking section to Mark Twain, Calvin Trillin, and David Sedaris. He made a mean chili and loved the blues. He was a lifelong Democrat. Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Virginia Scott Ross. He is survived by wife Diane Barker, daughter Emily Yeager of Manhattan and son Thomas Ross (Chelsea) of Salina, and six grandchildren, George, Isaac, Lucy, Logan, Macie, and Dalton. Chris is also survived by siblings Scott (Meredith) of Maryville, MO, Anne of Higbee, MO, and Carter (Denise) of Columbia, MO. A memorial service will be held in his honor on Saturday, June 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the Unitarian-Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan on 481 Zeandale Rd., Manhattan, KS. Officiating will be Pastor Isabel Call. Memorial donations may be made to the University of Missouri Veterinary School, Graduating Class of 1981 at https://mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu/Item.aspx?item_id=553 The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr. Christopher Robert Ross (Chris), age 69, of Manhattan, KS, died December 12, 2021 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, KS. Chris was born April 29, 1952, the second of four children to Robert and Virginia Scott Ross in Bethany, MO. He met his first wife, Rita Fichter Ross, at Hickman High School in Columbia, MO; they were married from 1974 to 2002, and they had two children, Emily and Thomas. As a young man, Chris lived and worked on his grandparents’ farm in Harrison County, MO. Inspired by his experiences there along with the books of veterinarian James Herriot, Chris earned his Bachelor’s degree followed by his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1981. After practicing in Fulton, MO, he returned to MU where he received his PhD in Physiology in 1990. He then researched and taught in the Department of Anatomy and Physiology at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine for the next 17 years. From 2007 until his retirement in 2021, Chris served at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine as Professor of Physiological Sciences, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, and finally Interim Dean. Chris was married on July 14, 2004 to Diane Barker of Manhattan, KS. They met at the Blue Valley Yacht Club on Tuttle Creek Lake, and enjoyed sailing, boat camping and racing. Chris was proud of winning the Scott Liebler Memorial Day Weekend Race in 2004, 2005 and 2006, and the Round the Buoy Chapman Series in 2005. Chris and Diane were happy to get out on the salt water and competed in the Sunfish Series at Davis Island Yacht Club on Tampa Bay. They cruised the San Juan Islands for a week with BVYC friends Marty and Harriet Ottenheimer and Jack and Jackie Holl, chartering a 3-stateroom Jeanneau, the Illumine, out of Bellingham, Washington. Chris was brilliant, witty, and loyal. He valued education, hard work, and learning by doing. He taught himself to sail, and built a new mast step and replaced the mast after a yacht club dismasting on Tuttle Creek Lake. Chris embodied his love of the outdoors as a leader in both Boy Scouts and Sea Scouts, and warmly recalled a particularly arduous and rewarding trek with son Thomas across Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. He enjoyed travel, and his work took him across the United States as well as to Canada, Italy, Afghanistan, and India. In recent years, he enjoyed remote fishing expeditions with Canada’s Kississing outfitters near Flin Flon, Manitoba. His passions and hobbies were widely varied and included cooking, gardening, furniture-making, politics, raising chickens, sheep, goats, and dogs, and entertaining his grandchildren. He was a voracious reader, ranging from the New York Times cooking section to Mark Twain, Calvin Trillin, and David Sedaris. He made a mean chili and loved the blues. He was a lifelong Democrat. Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Virginia Scott Ross. He is survived by wife Diane Barker, daughter Emily Yeager of Manhattan and son Thomas Ross (Chelsea) of Salina, and six grandchildren, George, Isaac, Lucy, Logan, Macie, and Dalton. Chris is also survived by siblings Scott (Meredith) of Maryville, MO, Anne of Higbee, MO, and Carter (Denise) of Columbia, MO. A memorial service will be held in his honor on Saturday, June 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the Unitarian-Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan on 481 Zeandale Rd., Manhattan, KS. Officiating will be Pastor Isabel Call. Memorial donations may be made to the University of Missouri Veterinary School, Graduating Class of 1981 at https://mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu/Item.aspx?item_id=553 The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr. Christopher Robert Ross

Our mom, Esther Denise Sobering, died May 31, 2022, at the Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community in Manhattan. She was born November 24, 1929, in Gretna, Manitoba, Canada, the daughter of Jacob and Anna Siemens. She attended high school at the Mennonite Collegiate Institute in Gretna and received her RN from St. Boniface School of Nursing in Manitoba. She did post-graduate work at Margaret Hague Maternity Hospital in Jersey City, New Jersey. She continued her education in North Carolina and revived her career when she moved to Manhattan. She was a pioneer in home health care and hospice and was the director of Riley County Health Homemaker Services from 1981 - 1986. We are proud of her legacy of providing compassionate and quality care through home health services. Our dad, Fred, was the love of Esther’s life for 65 years. She told her granddaughter Anna that she was very lucky to have chosen Fred even though she was tempted a couple of times to pick someone more flamboyant. She and Fred lived their love story that continued until the day she died. We are happy they are together again. Esther was proud of her Canadian roots even though she was a naturalized United States citizen. During her lifetime, she lived in over thirty homes following Fred from place to place as he advanced in his career. Esther was comfortable in an apartment in Armenia, on a bus in St. Petersburg Russia, or in her cottage at Meadowlark. She would tell you that the twenty-five retirement years at “White Oaks Farm” near Oskaloosa were the best. Esther maintained a home that was always open to friends and relatives. Neighbors and friends often became part of our extended family. Her Meadowlark friends made her years without Fred and the sudden death of her son, Barry, easier for her. She was strong-willed; tough in adversity, but tender when needed. Fred, family, faith, and friends were the bedrock of her life. She had a strong and continued faith in Jesus Christ and was active in her local churches. Esther was always busy. She enjoyed crafting and painting especially with her grandchildren and though she never considered herself an artist, we knew she was. She was a prolific painter in the last several years and has passed on a legacy of art to her family. She loved music. She played the piano, sang in choir, and even listened to and pretended to enjoy her grandson Jon’s musical compositions, though they were far from her musical taste. She spent her last days working on a new home design for her daughter, Jacquie. She had her iPad and iPhone by her side until the end. They were her connection to her family and friends. Her son Tim and her grandsons Ian and Jake kept her tech savvy through her later years. Esther had a gift for connecting with everyone she met, but she had a special connection to animals starting with her beloved Towser, a big black Newfie she had growing up. She loved and treated our dogs like her children, maybe even a bit better. Her last years were challenging without Fred and with mounting health problems. Living near her son, Tim, gave her independence and yet a sense of security. We are forever grateful for the love, care, and time Tim and Kristine gave Esther in her final years. She leaves to mourn her passing three of her children: Mike (Cindi) of Dallas, TX; Jacquie (Steve) Gering, Prairie Village, KS; Tim (Kristine) of Manhattan, KS; her daughter-in-law Teeny (Barry) Winter Springs, FL; and her brother Robert (Lynne) Siemens, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada as well as nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Esther was preceded in death by her husband Fred, her parents, her sister Arlene Dick (Siemens), her son Barry and her granddaughter Kendell. The family requests that in lieu of flowers or cards, donations be made to either Meadowlark Hills or to the Good Shepherd Hospice House. Mom and dad loved their time at Meadowlark. Mom's history with Good Shepherd goes back to 1981 when she was the first Executive Director and they provided excellent care for mom at the end of her life. Thank you for your condolences. This is truly the end of an era with Fred and Esther gone. We will never forget them.

There are no events scheduled at this time.

Memorial Contributions:&nbsp; Meadowlark Hills Foundation; Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice, Inc.

Our mom, Esther Denise Sobering, died May 31, 2022, at the Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community in Manhattan. She was born November 24, 1929, in Gretna, Manitoba, Canada, the daughter of Jacob and Anna Siemens. She attended high school at the Mennonite Collegiate Institute in Gretna and received her RN from St. Boniface School of Nursing in Manitoba. She did post-graduate work at Margaret Hague Maternity Hospital in Jersey City, New Jersey. She continued her education in North Carolina and revived her career when she moved to Manhattan. She was a pioneer in home health care and hospice and was the director of Riley County Health Homemaker Services from 1981 - 1986. We are proud of her legacy of providing compassionate and quality care through home health services. Our dad, Fred, was the love of Esther’s life for 65 years. She told her granddaughter Anna that she was very lucky to have chosen Fred even though she was tempted a couple of times to pick someone more flamboyant. She and Fred lived their love story that continued until the day she died. We are happy they are together again. Esther was proud of her Canadian roots even though she was a naturalized United States citizen. During her lifetime, she lived in over thirty homes following Fred from place to place as he advanced in his career. Esther was comfortable in an apartment in Armenia, on a bus in St. Petersburg Russia, or in her cottage at Meadowlark. She would tell you that the twenty-five retirement years at “White Oaks Farm” near Oskaloosa were the best. Esther maintained a home that was always open to friends and relatives. Neighbors and friends often became part of our extended family. Her Meadowlark friends made her years without Fred and the sudden death of her son, Barry, easier for her. She was strong-willed; tough in adversity, but tender when needed. Fred, family, faith, and friends were the bedrock of her life. She had a strong and continued faith in Jesus Christ and was active in her local churches. Esther was always busy. She enjoyed crafting and painting especially with her grandchildren and though she never considered herself an artist, we knew she was. She was a prolific painter in the last several years and has passed on a legacy of art to her family. She loved music. She played the piano, sang in choir, and even listened to and pretended to enjoy her grandson Jon’s musical compositions, though they were far from her musical taste. She spent her last days working on a new home design for her daughter, Jacquie. She had her iPad and iPhone by her side until the end. They were her connection to her family and friends. Her son Tim and her grandsons Ian and Jake kept her tech savvy through her later years. Esther had a gift for connecting with everyone she met, but she had a special connection to animals starting with her beloved Towser, a big black Newfie she had growing up. She loved and treated our dogs like her children, maybe even a bit better. Her last years were challenging without Fred and with mounting health problems. Living near her son, Tim, gave her independence and yet a sense of security. We are forever grateful for the love, care, and time Tim and Kristine gave Esther in her final years. She leaves to mourn her passing three of her children: Mike (Cindi) of Dallas, TX; Jacquie (Steve) Gering, Prairie Village, KS; Tim (Kristine) of Manhattan, KS; her daughter-in-law Teeny (Barry) Winter Springs, FL; and her brother Robert (Lynne) Siemens, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada as well as nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Esther was preceded in death by her husband Fred, her parents, her sister Arlene Dick (Siemens), her son Barry and her granddaughter Kendell. The family requests that in lieu of flowers or cards, donations be made to either Meadowlark Hills or to the Good Shepherd Hospice House. Mom and dad loved their time at Meadowlark. Mom's history with Good Shepherd goes back to 1981 when she was the first Executive Director and they provided excellent care for mom at the end of her life. Thank you for your condolences. This is truly the end of an era with Fred and Esther gone. We will never forget them.There are no events scheduled at this time.Memorial Contributions:&nbsp; Meadowlark Hills Foundation; Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice, Inc.

Esther Denise Sobering

Emily Patricia (“Pat”) Given (nee Rider), 91, of Wamego, KS, passed away May 26, 2022. She was born March 27, 1931, to Robert V. and Emily (Parker) Rider in Bellmore, New York. Emily married Charles Given on November 11, 1953. He preceded her in death in December 2020. Emily attended West Virginia Wesleyan College and graduated from Columbia University School of Nursing in New York. Emily volunteered often with the American Red Cross in her role as Registered Nurse. Emily had the spirit of a wanderer and was an avid reader. She had a life-long love of learning and enjoyed travelling, exploring new places, or simply getting lost in the adventures of her beloved books. Emily is survived by her daughter Donna Parks and husband Darrell of Manhattan; daughter Patricia Given Wentworth and husband Dean of Gleneden Beach, Oregon; granddaughter Sara Parks of Nacogdoches, Texas and granddaughter Susie Parks Schlup and husband Jason of Annandale, Virginia. Emily was predeceased by her brothers Robert Rider and George Rider. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Lyle House, Meadowlark Hills for the loving care and attention they gave Emily during the final years of her life. A Celebration of Life for Emily and Charlie will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, June 23, 2022 on the Lyle House patio, Meadowlark Hills, 2121 Meadowlark Road, Manhattan, KS. Memorial donations in Emily’s name may be made to the Meadowlark Hills Foundation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Emily Patricia (“Pat”) Given (nee Rider), 91, of Wamego, KS, passed away May 26, 2022. She was born March 27, 1931, to Robert V. and Emily (Parker) Rider in Bellmore, New York. Emily married Charles Given on November 11, 1953. He preceded her in death in December 2020. Emily attended West Virginia Wesleyan College and graduated from Columbia University School of Nursing in New York. Emily volunteered often with the American Red Cross in her role as Registered Nurse. Emily had the spirit of a wanderer and was an avid reader. She had a life-long love of learning and enjoyed travelling, exploring new places, or simply getting lost in the adventures of her beloved books. Emily is survived by her daughter Donna Parks and husband Darrell of Manhattan; daughter Patricia Given Wentworth and husband Dean of Gleneden Beach, Oregon; granddaughter Sara Parks of Nacogdoches, Texas and granddaughter Susie Parks Schlup and husband Jason of Annandale, Virginia. Emily was predeceased by her brothers Robert Rider and George Rider. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Lyle House, Meadowlark Hills for the loving care and attention they gave Emily during the final years of her life. A Celebration of Life for Emily and Charlie will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, June 23, 2022 on the Lyle House patio, Meadowlark Hills, 2121 Meadowlark Road, Manhattan, KS. Memorial donations in Emily’s name may be made to the Meadowlark Hills Foundation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Emily Patricia (“Pat”) Given

Larry K. Holloway, 67, Junction City, KS, died Friday, May 27, 2022 at his residence. Cremation has taken place. No memorial service is planned.

Larry K. Holloway, 67, Junction City, KS, died Friday, May 27, 2022 at his residence. Cremation has taken place. No memorial service is planned.

Larry K. Holloway

Ruth Irene Dishman, 82, of Junction City, KS, passed away on Thursday, June 2, 2022 at Geary Community Hospital. A visitation will be held 4-6 p.m. Saturday, June 11, 2022 at Johnson Funeral Home. Cremation will follow the visitation. The cremated remains will be buried at later date at Highland Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to be given to the Junction City Animal Shelter. Ruth was born November 22, 1939, in Junction City, KS, the daughter of Orville and Bertha (Turnbull) Cameron. Ruth graduated from Wakefield High School. After high school, she attended Brown Mackie Business College. She worked for Bowman Implement and Willhoite John Deere Implement both in Junction City. She later worked as a secretary for U.S.D. 475 Special Education Department in Junction City. Ruth enjoyed bowling and spending time with her family. She married Wayne Dishman August 15, 1958. He passed away April 2020. Survivor include two sons; Mike Dishman and Jeff Dishman both of Junction City, KS; one brother, Allen Cameron of MO; one sister, Betty Wondra of Concordia, KS; six grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Wayne and two brothers Fred and Gary Cameron.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ruth Irene Dishman, 82, of Junction City, KS, passed away on Thursday, June 2, 2022 at Geary Community Hospital. A visitation will be held 4-6 p.m. Saturday, June 11, 2022 at Johnson Funeral Home. Cremation will follow the visitation. The cremated remains will be buried at later date at Highland Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to be given to the Junction City Animal Shelter. Ruth was born November 22, 1939, in Junction City, KS, the daughter of Orville and Bertha (Turnbull) Cameron. Ruth graduated from Wakefield High School. After high school, she attended Brown Mackie Business College. She worked for Bowman Implement and Willhoite John Deere Implement both in Junction City. She later worked as a secretary for U.S.D. 475 Special Education Department in Junction City. Ruth enjoyed bowling and spending time with her family. She married Wayne Dishman August 15, 1958. He passed away April 2020. Survivor include two sons; Mike Dishman and Jeff Dishman both of Junction City, KS; one brother, Allen Cameron of MO; one sister, Betty Wondra of Concordia, KS; six grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Wayne and two brothers Fred and Gary Cameron.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ruth Irene Dishman

Dean Morris Roe, age 96 of Manhattan, passed away Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at Via Christi Village in Manhattan.

He was born on November 8, 1925, in New Cambria, the son of William and Olive (Scott) Roe.&nbsp; He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 until 1946.

Dean was a switchman for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for 35 years.&nbsp; He loved farming.

He is survived by his sister, Doris Ruthstrom of Leonardville and one nephew and several nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Billy Roe, Pat Roe and Fritz Roe.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 6, 2022 at the Greenwood Cemetery in Clay Center with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating.&nbsp; The family will receive from 10:30 a.m. until service time at the cemetery on Monday.

A memorial may be made to Via Christi Village and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Dean Morris Roe, age 96 of Manhattan, passed away Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at Via Christi Village in Manhattan.He was born on November 8, 1925, in New Cambria, the son of William and Olive (Scott) Roe.&nbsp; He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 until 1946.Dean was a switchman for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for 35 years.&nbsp; He loved farming.He is survived by his sister, Doris Ruthstrom of Leonardville and one nephew and several nieces.He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Billy Roe, Pat Roe and Fritz Roe.Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 6, 2022 at the Greenwood Cemetery in Clay Center with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating.&nbsp; The family will receive from 10:30 a.m. until service time at the cemetery on Monday.A memorial may be made to Via Christi Village and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Dean Morris Roe

Franklin Eugene Cunningham, age 95 of Leonardville, passed away Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at the Clay Center Presbyterian Manor.

He was born on March 2, 1927 in Huntington, West Virginia, the son of Milburn and Jane (Greenwood) Cunningham.&nbsp; He was raised in Washington, Indiana where he graduated from high school.&nbsp; He served in both the U.S. Army Infantry, U.S. Army Air Corps and U.S. Air Force as a gunner and radar operator.

On February 9, 1951 in Beaver City, Nebraska, he married Patricia Joan Whittle.&nbsp; She preceded him in death in 2014.&nbsp; He attended Kansas State University from 1954 through 1957 and received his B.S. in Agriculture.&nbsp; He earned his Masters and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Missouri and was a member of the staff there until 1963.

Franklin worked for the USDA as a Food Chemist at the Western Regional Research Center in Albany, California from 1963 to 1965.&nbsp; He left the USDA to assume a research position with a major food company located in Springfield, Missouri and then joined the faculty at Kansas State University in 1969 as an Associate Professor in the Dairy and Poultry Science Department.&nbsp; In 1976 he became a full Professor in the Animal Sciences Department and retired from KSU in 1992.

Dr. Cunningham was the holder of nine U.S. Patents, one Canadian Patent, and had published over 130 scientific papers, nine books, and had made many presentations to scholarly organizations in the food sciences throughout the U.S., Spain, Japan, Korea, England and the Netherlands.&nbsp; He was a long-time member of the Institute of Food Technologists and the U.S. and World’s Poultry Science Associations.&nbsp; He was a member of Gamma Sigma Delta, Alpha Zeta, Sigma Xi, Phi Tau Sigma, Phi Kappa Phi and the Golden Key.&nbsp; He was a past president of the Leonardville Lions Club, a member of the American Disabled Veterans Organization, Leonardville United Methodist Church, and was a Royal Arch and Select Master Mason.

He is survived by three sons, Michael Cunningham and wife Lois of McPherson, Jon Mark Cunningham and wife Barbara of Clay Center and Charles Cunningham of New Cambria; two daughters, Valeria Crow and husband Rick of Kooskia, Idaho and Candice A. Randall and husband Tim of Nekoosa, Wisconsin; 16 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Terry Cunningham and his great granddaughter, Johannah Browne.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 8, 2022 at the Leonardville United Methodist Church with Rev. D. Erich Schwartz officiating.&nbsp; Respect calls may be made from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp; The family will not be present.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Leonardville United Methodist Cemetery.

A memorial has been established for Meadowlark Hospice and may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral in Riley, Kansas.

Franklin Eugene Cunningham, age 95 of Leonardville, passed away Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at the Clay Center Presbyterian Manor.He was born on March 2, 1927 in Huntington, West Virginia, the son of Milburn and Jane (Greenwood) Cunningham.&nbsp; He was raised in Washington, Indiana where he graduated from high school.&nbsp; He served in both the U.S. Army Infantry, U.S. Army Air Corps and U.S. Air Force as a gunner and radar operator.On February 9, 1951 in Beaver City, Nebraska, he married Patricia Joan Whittle.&nbsp; She preceded him in death in 2014.&nbsp; He attended Kansas State University from 1954 through 1957 and received his B.S. in Agriculture.&nbsp; He earned his Masters and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Missouri and was a member of the staff there until 1963.Franklin worked for the USDA as a Food Chemist at the Western Regional Research Center in Albany, California from 1963 to 1965.&nbsp; He left the USDA to assume a research position with a major food company located in Springfield, Missouri and then joined the faculty at Kansas State University in 1969 as an Associate Professor in the Dairy and Poultry Science Department.&nbsp; In 1976 he became a full Professor in the Animal Sciences Department and retired from KSU in 1992.Dr. Cunningham was the holder of nine U.S. Patents, one Canadian Patent, and had published over 130 scientific papers, nine books, and had made many presentations to scholarly organizations in the food sciences throughout the U.S., Spain, Japan, Korea, England and the Netherlands.&nbsp; He was a long-time member of the Institute of Food Technologists and the U.S. and World’s Poultry Science Associations.&nbsp; He was a member of Gamma Sigma Delta, Alpha Zeta, Sigma Xi, Phi Tau Sigma, Phi Kappa Phi and the Golden Key.&nbsp; He was a past president of the Leonardville Lions Club, a member of the American Disabled Veterans Organization, Leonardville United Methodist Church, and was a Royal Arch and Select Master Mason.He is survived by three sons, Michael Cunningham and wife Lois of McPherson, Jon Mark Cunningham and wife Barbara of Clay Center and Charles Cunningham of New Cambria; two daughters, Valeria Crow and husband Rick of Kooskia, Idaho and Candice A. Randall and husband Tim of Nekoosa, Wisconsin; 16 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Terry Cunningham and his great granddaughter, Johannah Browne.Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 8, 2022 at the Leonardville United Methodist Church with Rev. D. Erich Schwartz officiating.&nbsp; Respect calls may be made from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.&nbsp; The family will not be present.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Leonardville United Methodist Cemetery.A memorial has been established for Meadowlark Hospice and may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral in Riley, Kansas.

Franklin Eugene Cunningham

Albion D. Visser, age 87, of Sidney, passed away on to our heavenly home surrounded by his family on Saturday, May 28, 2022 at Sidney Regional Medical Center.

He was born on May 22, 1935 in Riley, KS to Martha (Sylvester) and Edward Visser. He was the youngest of 8 children. He graduated from Kansas State with an Agriculture Economics degree.

He married the love of his life, Jualdene Taylor, on December 20, 1959 in Westmoreland, KS. To this union three children were born Jolene, Janelle and Arlan. Being raised on a Kansas farm, he had a love for agriculture. He was enlisted in the Army National Guard for six years. Throughout Albion’s career he was a grain elevator manager, feed salesman, farm manager, crop insurance agent, and rural real estate agent. His past time love was camping, fishing, spending time with his family and watching college football, especially the Huskers.

Survivors include his wife Jualdene of 62 years, Jolene and husband Kevin Lichty of O’Neill, Heath and fiance Kelli, Ariel and fiance Jordan, Marissa, Janelle Visser of Hemingford, Hans, Blake and fiance Ali, Emily, Arlan and wife Julie of Omaha, Avery and Gavin. Brothers Virgil and wife Marion of Wakefield, KS, Eugene of Corning, KS, sisters-in-law Irene Visser of Cedar Rapids, IA, Betty and husband Harold Weller of Topeka, KS, Helen Taylor of Wamego, KS and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers George, Harold, Leroy, Ken and sister Evelyn, sisters-in-law Lorene, Evelyn, Rosemary and Lois.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. (MST) Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at First United Methodist Church in Sidney, NE with Pastor Corey Jenkins officiating. &nbsp;The Gehrig-Stitt Funeral Home in Sidney, NE is handled the funeral services

Interment will take place with full Military Honors at the Riley Cemetery in Riley, KS at 11:00 a.m. (CST) Friday, June 3, 2022 with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. The Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home is handling the graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be determined and can made to Julie Visser, 2125 13th Avenue, Sidney, NE 69162.

Albion D. Visser, age 87, of Sidney, passed away on to our heavenly home surrounded by his family on Saturday, May 28, 2022 at Sidney Regional Medical Center.He was born on May 22, 1935 in Riley, KS to Martha (Sylvester) and Edward Visser. He was the youngest of 8 children. He graduated from Kansas State with an Agriculture Economics degree. He married the love of his life, Jualdene Taylor, on December 20, 1959 in Westmoreland, KS. To this union three children were born Jolene, Janelle and Arlan. Being raised on a Kansas farm, he had a love for agriculture. He was enlisted in the Army National Guard for six years. Throughout Albion’s career he was a grain elevator manager, feed salesman, farm manager, crop insurance agent, and rural real estate agent. His past time love was camping, fishing, spending time with his family and watching college football, especially the Huskers. Survivors include his wife Jualdene of 62 years, Jolene and husband Kevin Lichty of O’Neill, Heath and fiance Kelli, Ariel and fiance Jordan, Marissa, Janelle Visser of Hemingford, Hans, Blake and fiance Ali, Emily, Arlan and wife Julie of Omaha, Avery and Gavin. Brothers Virgil and wife Marion of Wakefield, KS, Eugene of Corning, KS, sisters-in-law Irene Visser of Cedar Rapids, IA, Betty and husband Harold Weller of Topeka, KS, Helen Taylor of Wamego, KS and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers George, Harold, Leroy, Ken and sister Evelyn, sisters-in-law Lorene, Evelyn, Rosemary and Lois.Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. (MST) Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at First United Methodist Church in Sidney, NE with Pastor Corey Jenkins officiating. &nbsp;The Gehrig-Stitt Funeral Home in Sidney, NE is handled the funeral servicesInterment will take place with full Military Honors at the Riley Cemetery in Riley, KS at 11:00 a.m. (CST) Friday, June 3, 2022 with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. The Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home is handling the graveside service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be determined and can made to Julie Visser, 2125 13th Avenue, Sidney, NE 69162.

Al Visser

Betty Ann Jones, 87 of &nbsp;Morganville, passed away on May 31, 2022 at the Linn Community Nursing Home.&nbsp; She was born on August 21, 1934 at her family home in Palmer, Kansas, the daughter of Herman and Anna (Reith) Kolle. Betty was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Linn where she attended the Immanuel Lutheran School.

Betty married Darold Ellwood Jones. She worked 34 years at the Clay Center Hospital.&nbsp; She was a very hard worker and when she retired, she was the Housekeeping Department manager. &nbsp;Betty also enjoyed driving a harvest truck for several farmers in the Morganville area, going many miles and doing it for many years.

Betty was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Clay Center. She enjoyed being outside and loved visiting and fishing with family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, her parents, a son in law Wayne Wright, a granddaughter Janel Wright, a grandson Mike DeLong, a sister Elda, four brothers Donald, Delbert, Ronald, and Norman. Brother in laws and sister in laws Elmo and Irma Jones, Harry &nbsp;&nbsp;and Enid Bauer, Clifford and Avis Kempston, Russell (Pete) and Heloise &nbsp;McGrath, Raymond and LaWanda (Max) Ahlberg, Bob and lone Flinn, LaVera Rettig and Marshall Jones.

Betty is survived by four daughters Grace (Bill) Oetinger, Morganville, Ks., Kathy (Chuck) DeLong, Gridley, Ks., Mary Wright, Morganville, Ks., and Connie Howley (Randy Tiemeyer), Clifton, Ks.

Grandchildren: Aaron and Morree (Oetinger) Floersch, Dan and Megan (Oetinger) Weisenberger, Mark and Jenny (DeLong) Boline, Jarrod and Marie DeLong, Alan and Amy (DeLong) Mantooth, Travis and &nbsp;&nbsp;Jerilyn Wright, Matt Wright, Rick and Kate (Wright) Hammond, Chelsey Matheu and Brett Matheu.

Great Grandchildren: Carson, Kara and Drew Floersch, William and Amelia Weisenberger, Lauren, Hayden and Ella Boline, Haleigh DeLong, Kelsi DeLong, Elisa and Alexis DeLong, and Isaac DeLong, Rylan &nbsp;and Braelyn Wright, Finnegan Hammond, Elly Matheu, Taylor and Ashtyn Ross, and Treyton Matheu. Brother, Robert (Veda) Kolle, sister Mardell (Leo) Voelker, sister in laws Mariel Kolle, Violet KoIle and Ruth Jones and brother in law Leonard Rettig and many nieces, nephews and &nbsp;friends.

Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 8, 2022 at the Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home, Clay Center, Kansas.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 9, 2022 at the St. Paul Lutheran Church, Clay Center, Kansas.

Interment will be at the Morganville City Cemetery, Morganville, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Paul Lutheran Preschool or Morganville City Cemetery and can be sent in care of the funeral home.

Betty Ann Jones, 87 of &nbsp;Morganville, passed away on May 31, 2022 at the Linn Community Nursing Home.&nbsp; She was born on August 21, 1934 at her family home in Palmer, Kansas, the daughter of Herman and Anna (Reith) Kolle. Betty was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Linn where she attended the Immanuel Lutheran School.Betty married Darold Ellwood Jones. She worked 34 years at the Clay Center Hospital.&nbsp; She was a very hard worker and when she retired, she was the Housekeeping Department manager. &nbsp;Betty also enjoyed driving a harvest truck for several farmers in the Morganville area, going many miles and doing it for many years.Betty was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Clay Center. She enjoyed being outside and loved visiting and fishing with family and friends.She is preceded in death by her husband, her parents, a son in law Wayne Wright, a granddaughter Janel Wright, a grandson Mike DeLong, a sister Elda, four brothers Donald, Delbert, Ronald, and Norman. Brother in laws and sister in laws Elmo and Irma Jones, Harry &nbsp;&nbsp;and Enid Bauer, Clifford and Avis Kempston, Russell (Pete) and Heloise &nbsp;McGrath, Raymond and LaWanda (Max) Ahlberg, Bob and lone Flinn, LaVera Rettig and Marshall Jones.Betty is survived by four daughters Grace (Bill) Oetinger, Morganville, Ks., Kathy (Chuck) DeLong, Gridley, Ks., Mary Wright, Morganville, Ks., and Connie Howley (Randy Tiemeyer), Clifton, Ks.Grandchildren: Aaron and Morree (Oetinger) Floersch, Dan and Megan (Oetinger) Weisenberger, Mark and Jenny (DeLong) Boline, Jarrod and Marie DeLong, Alan and Amy (DeLong) Mantooth, Travis and &nbsp;&nbsp;Jerilyn Wright, Matt Wright, Rick and Kate (Wright) Hammond, Chelsey Matheu and Brett Matheu.Great Grandchildren: Carson, Kara and Drew Floersch, William and Amelia Weisenberger, Lauren, Hayden and Ella Boline, Haleigh DeLong, Kelsi DeLong, Elisa and Alexis DeLong, and Isaac DeLong, Rylan &nbsp;and Braelyn Wright, Finnegan Hammond, Elly Matheu, Taylor and Ashtyn Ross, and Treyton Matheu. Brother, Robert (Veda) Kolle, sister Mardell (Leo) Voelker, sister in laws Mariel Kolle, Violet KoIle and Ruth Jones and brother in law Leonard Rettig and many nieces, nephews and &nbsp;friends.Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 8, 2022 at the Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home, Clay Center, Kansas.Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 9, 2022 at the St. Paul Lutheran Church, Clay Center, Kansas.Interment will be at the Morganville City Cemetery, Morganville, Kansas.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Paul Lutheran Preschool or Morganville City Cemetery and can be sent in care of the funeral home.

Betty Ann Jones

Marie Franson passed away the morning of Sunday, May 29, 2022. She was surrounded by family in her final days. Marie was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother during her incredible 97 years. She was blessed to live independently in her own home until just a few weeks ago.

Marie had a long and full life. She was born on January 21, 1925, in the rural Longford area to two loving parents, Daniel and Emma Bach. She was the youngest of her siblings-Clifford, Eva, and Claudine-who doted on her while growing up, and Marie enjoyed close relationships with them and their families throughout her life. She spent her younger years on the family farm surrounded by extended family and had fond memories of both of her grandfathers, August Bach and Christian Bletscher, who lived in the household at different times when she was a child. Marie attended rural grade school in Longford and graduated from Clay County Community High School in 1942.

Marie married Blake Franson in March of 1945 in Clay Center. They settled on the Franson farm north of town in Garfield Township. Marie moved to Clay Center in 1975 after Blake's passing in 1973. She worked outside of the home throughout most of her life, including Lincoln Heights grocery store and at Gibson 's, where she served as assistant manager until her retirement in her mid-seventies.

Marie was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and had a strong faith that guided her throughout her life. She was a talented seamstress, and she enjoyed sewing clothing and quilts, as well as embroidery and craft work. Marie loved to play card games with friends and family and passed down her competitive nature to many of her descendants. Marie spoiled her family with her amazing cooking, and she loved nothing more than ignoring all protests while pushing an extra helping of dinner or an extra scoop of ice cream onto her grandkids. She enjoyed going to coffee with friends, traveling, reading, gardening, and­ watching the birds and squirrels in her backyard. Above all, she loved spending time with family.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband, Blake Franson, her stepson, Gary Franson, her daughter­ in-law, Linda Franson, and her great-granddaughter, Morgan Leigh Fajen. She is survived and missed by her son, Gailen Franson, of Clay Center, her son-in-law and daughter, John and Pam Fajen, of Riley, and daughter-in-law,&nbsp; Lee Campbell, of Clay Center. She also leaves behind grandchildren: Tyna Fajen, Pat James and husband Lon, Jeannie Franson, and Jim Franson and wife Shelli-all of Clay Center, KS; John Fajen Jr. and wife Cinnamon of Riley, KS; Angie Franson and husband Justin Dean of Perry, KS; Justin Fajen and wife Deana of Kansas City, MO; Jake Fajen and wife Erin of Lenexa, KS; and Jeremy Fajen and fiancée Michele Jesse of Riley, KS; along with 16 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

We are grateful for the length of her life and the time we had to spend with her, and we will always feel her presence in our hearts.

Visitation will be Friday, June 3, 2022, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home.

Services will be held at St. Paul's Lutheran Church at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 4, 2022.

Memorials can be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church c/o the funeral home.

Marie Franson passed away the morning of Sunday, May 29, 2022. She was surrounded by family in her final days. Marie was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother during her incredible 97 years. She was blessed to live independently in her own home until just a few weeks ago.Marie had a long and full life. She was born on January 21, 1925, in the rural Longford area to two loving parents, Daniel and Emma Bach. She was the youngest of her siblings-Clifford, Eva, and Claudine-who doted on her while growing up, and Marie enjoyed close relationships with them and their families throughout her life. She spent her younger years on the family farm surrounded by extended family and had fond memories of both of her grandfathers, August Bach and Christian Bletscher, who lived in the household at different times when she was a child. Marie attended rural grade school in Longford and graduated from Clay County Community High School in 1942.Marie married Blake Franson in March of 1945 in Clay Center. They settled on the Franson farm north of town in Garfield Township. Marie moved to Clay Center in 1975 after Blake's passing in 1973. She worked outside of the home throughout most of her life, including Lincoln Heights grocery store and at Gibson 's, where she served as assistant manager until her retirement in her mid-seventies.Marie was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and had a strong faith that guided her throughout her life. She was a talented seamstress, and she enjoyed sewing clothing and quilts, as well as embroidery and craft work. Marie loved to play card games with friends and family and passed down her competitive nature to many of her descendants. Marie spoiled her family with her amazing cooking, and she loved nothing more than ignoring all protests while pushing an extra helping of dinner or an extra scoop of ice cream onto her grandkids. She enjoyed going to coffee with friends, traveling, reading, gardening, and­ watching the birds and squirrels in her backyard. Above all, she loved spending time with family.Marie was preceded in death by her husband, Blake Franson, her stepson, Gary Franson, her daughter­ in-law, Linda Franson, and her great-granddaughter, Morgan Leigh Fajen. She is survived and missed by her son, Gailen Franson, of Clay Center, her son-in-law and daughter, John and Pam Fajen, of Riley, and daughter-in-law,&nbsp; Lee Campbell, of Clay Center. She also leaves behind grandchildren: Tyna Fajen, Pat James and husband Lon, Jeannie Franson, and Jim Franson and wife Shelli-all of Clay Center, KS; John Fajen Jr. and wife Cinnamon of Riley, KS; Angie Franson and husband Justin Dean of Perry, KS; Justin Fajen and wife Deana of Kansas City, MO; Jake Fajen and wife Erin of Lenexa, KS; and Jeremy Fajen and fiancée Michele Jesse of Riley, KS; along with 16 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.We are grateful for the length of her life and the time we had to spend with her, and we will always feel her presence in our hearts.Visitation will be Friday, June 3, 2022, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home.Services will be held at St. Paul's Lutheran Church at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 4, 2022.Memorials can be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church c/o the funeral home.

Marie Franson

Terry D. Livingston, 71, of Overbrook, KS, passed away on Saturday, May 28, 2022 at the Brookside Retirement Community. Cremation will take place. A graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 15, 2022 at the Hall Cemetery. Associate Pastor Will Ravenstein will officiate. Terry was born July 22, 1950, in Junction City, KS the son of Paul D. and Pauline (Motter) Livingston. Terry served in the United States Air Force. After serving in the United States Air Force, he spent several years farming in Osage County, KS. After farming, he went to work for Iowa Beef Processing and Didde Glaser in Emporia, KS. Later, he owned and operated his lawn care service. He enjoyed fishing and woodworking. Survivors include one brother; Alton R. Livingston of Junction City, KS; numerous cousins and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Terry D. Livingston, 71, of Overbrook, KS, passed away on Saturday, May 28, 2022 at the Brookside Retirement Community. Cremation will take place. A graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 15, 2022 at the Hall Cemetery. Associate Pastor Will Ravenstein will officiate. Terry was born July 22, 1950, in Junction City, KS the son of Paul D. and Pauline (Motter) Livingston. Terry served in the United States Air Force. After serving in the United States Air Force, he spent several years farming in Osage County, KS. After farming, he went to work for Iowa Beef Processing and Didde Glaser in Emporia, KS. Later, he owned and operated his lawn care service. He enjoyed fishing and woodworking. Survivors include one brother; Alton R. Livingston of Junction City, KS; numerous cousins and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Terry D. Livingston

Emil F. Eichman, 88, of Flush, Kansas, died Thursday, May 26, 2022, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.&nbsp; He was a long-time resident of the Flush community.

Emil was born on August 13, 1933, in Paris, Arkansas, the son of Edward J. and Anna (Lux) Eichman.&nbsp; The family moved to Flush in 1940.&nbsp; He graduated from Flush High School in 1951.

Emil spent his life operating the family farm, north of Flush, with his brothers.&nbsp; He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church where he sang for many years in the church choir. He was a member of the Flush Knights of Columbus Council 902 and a 4th degree member

of the Thomas McNieve Knights of Columbus Assembly.&nbsp; Emil loved to be busy outside and enjoyed working on his farm equipment. He also enjoyed playing pool.

Emil married Carol Lynn Knepper on June 24, 1989, at St. Joseph Church.&nbsp;&nbsp; She survives at their home.

Emil is also survived by his sister, Margaret Hunt of Colorado Springs, Colorado; his sister-in-law, Mildred Eichman, St. George; brother and sister-in-law Ed and Carol Eichman-Gereau, Wamego; brother and sister-in-law Harold and Ann Burkland, Wamego; brother-in-law Jay Kennedy, Love Valley, North Carolina, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Edward Eichman, James Eichman, Delbert Eichman, and&nbsp;Alice Gereau.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 3, 2022, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Flush, Kansas.&nbsp; Father Mike Peterson will be the Celebrant.&nbsp; Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.&nbsp; Emil will lie-in-state, at the church, Thursday, June 2, 2022, beginning at 4:00 p.m.&nbsp; The family will greet friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. and a Rosary prayer service will be held at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Church Religious Education Program, St. Joseph Catholic Church, or to the charity of the donor's choice, and those may be sent in care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego

Emil F. Eichman, 88, of Flush, Kansas, died Thursday, May 26, 2022, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.&nbsp; He was a long-time resident of the Flush community.Emil was born on August 13, 1933, in Paris, Arkansas, the son of Edward J. and Anna (Lux) Eichman.&nbsp; The family moved to Flush in 1940.&nbsp; He graduated from Flush High School in 1951.Emil spent his life operating the family farm, north of Flush, with his brothers.&nbsp; He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church where he sang for many years in the church choir. He was a member of the Flush Knights of Columbus Council 902 and a 4th degree memberof the Thomas McNieve Knights of Columbus Assembly.&nbsp; Emil loved to be busy outside and enjoyed working on his farm equipment. He also enjoyed playing pool.Emil married Carol Lynn Knepper on June 24, 1989, at St. Joseph Church.&nbsp;&nbsp; She survives at their home.Emil is also survived by his sister, Margaret Hunt of Colorado Springs, Colorado; his sister-in-law, Mildred Eichman, St. George; brother and sister-in-law Ed and Carol Eichman-Gereau, Wamego; brother and sister-in-law Harold and Ann Burkland, Wamego; brother-in-law Jay Kennedy, Love Valley, North Carolina, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Edward Eichman, James Eichman, Delbert Eichman, and&nbsp;Alice Gereau.Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 3, 2022, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Flush, Kansas.&nbsp; Father Mike Peterson will be the Celebrant.&nbsp; Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.&nbsp; Emil will lie-in-state, at the church, Thursday, June 2, 2022, beginning at 4:00 p.m.&nbsp; The family will greet friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. and a Rosary prayer service will be held at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Church Religious Education Program, St. Joseph Catholic Church, or to the charity of the donor's choice, and those may be sent in care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego

Emil F. Eichman

Davanna "Dee" G. Justice, 61, of Woodbine, KS, passed away Saturday, May 21st, at the Via Christi Village, in Manhattan.  She was a co-owner of Citywide Security in Topeka and co-owner of the Drain Doctor of Woodbine.

Davanna G. Fletcher was born in Fort Worth, Texas on January 4, 1961, the daughter of the late Linda and Charles  Fletcher.  She was formerly married to Willard A. Justice, with whom they had dated since the age of 16, and he survives.

Davanna is also survived by a daughter, Deborah Anne (Andrew) Pinkstaff, of Colorado Springs, CO; a step-daughter, Melissa (William) Boles, of Manhattan, a step-son, David Dodds, of Missouri;  two brothers, Charles Fletcher, Omaha, NE and Morgan Countryman, of Texas; sister Callie Brayton, Republic KS, ten grandchildren, and two step-grandchildren.  Dee was preceded in death by her daughter, Jessica Marie Justice, and her parents. 

At her request, inurnment will follow after the cremation, at the McCracken City Cemetery, McCracken, KS. 

Davanna "Dee" G. Justice, 61, of Woodbine, KS, passed away Saturday, May 21st, at the Via Christi Village, in Manhattan. She was a co-owner of Citywide Security in Topeka and co-owner of the Drain Doctor of Woodbine.Davanna G. Fletcher was born in Fort Worth, Texas on January 4, 1961, the daughter of the late Linda and Charles Fletcher. She was formerly married to Willard A. Justice, with whom they had dated since the age of 16, and he survives.Davanna is also survived by a daughter, Deborah Anne (Andrew) Pinkstaff, of Colorado Springs, CO; a step-daughter, Melissa (William) Boles, of Manhattan, a step-son, David Dodds, of Missouri; two brothers, Charles Fletcher, Omaha, NE and Morgan Countryman, of Texas; sister Callie Brayton, Republic KS, ten grandchildren, and two step-grandchildren. Dee was preceded in death by her daughter, Jessica Marie Justice, and her parents. At her request, inurnment will follow after the cremation, at the McCracken City Cemetery, McCracken, KS.

Davanna 'Dee' Gay Justice

Virginia Jean Davenport, 73, of Wakefield, KS, passed away on Sunday, May 22, 2022 at Wakefield Care and Rehab in Wakefield, KS. Cremation has taken place. A visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. Thursday, June 2, 2022 at Johnson Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held 10 a.m. Friday, June 3, 2022 at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to be given to Wakefield Care and Rehab or to Meadowlark Hospice out of Clay Center, KS. Virginia was born March 13, 1949, in Rochester, NY, the daughter of Charles and Betty (Francis) Herman. Virginia worked as a United States Civil Servant her entire life. Her husband Freddie served in the United States Army. Each move and transfer, always provided a new job opportunity. Virginia was an avid seamstress. She made clothing, formals, curtains, doll clothes and anything that could be made out of fabric. Virginia and her late husband Freddie spent a lot of time gardening and fishing. Virginia married Freddie W. Davenport November 20, 1983. He passed away February 12, 2013. Survivors include one son, Geoffrey Cavalier of Greeley, CO; one daughter, Kelly Bowman and her husband Roy of Junction City, KS; seven grandchildren, Aaron Stevens, Mya Stevens, Dustin Bowman, Cheyenne Riley and her husband Mark, Siera Rambler and her husband Michael, Madison Herring and her husband Jordan and R.J. Bowman; one brother, Donald Herman and his wife Liz of Cashion, OK; three sisters, Charlene Short and her husband Wesley of Cashion, OK, Jane Dow and her husband Jerry of Presque Isle, ME and Carol James and her husband Gerry of Presque Isle, ME. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Freddie and one brother William Herman.

Virginia Jean Davenport, 73, of Wakefield, KS, passed away on Sunday, May 22, 2022 at Wakefield Care and Rehab in Wakefield, KS. Cremation has taken place. A visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. Thursday, June 2, 2022 at Johnson Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held 10 a.m. Friday, June 3, 2022 at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to be given to Wakefield Care and Rehab or to Meadowlark Hospice out of Clay Center, KS. Virginia was born March 13, 1949, in Rochester, NY, the daughter of Charles and Betty (Francis) Herman. Virginia worked as a United States Civil Servant her entire life. Her husband Freddie served in the United States Army. Each move and transfer, always provided a new job opportunity. Virginia was an avid seamstress. She made clothing, formals, curtains, doll clothes and anything that could be made out of fabric. Virginia and her late husband Freddie spent a lot of time gardening and fishing. Virginia married Freddie W. Davenport November 20, 1983. He passed away February 12, 2013. Survivors include one son, Geoffrey Cavalier of Greeley, CO; one daughter, Kelly Bowman and her husband Roy of Junction City, KS; seven grandchildren, Aaron Stevens, Mya Stevens, Dustin Bowman, Cheyenne Riley and her husband Mark, Siera Rambler and her husband Michael, Madison Herring and her husband Jordan and R.J. Bowman; one brother, Donald Herman and his wife Liz of Cashion, OK; three sisters, Charlene Short and her husband Wesley of Cashion, OK, Jane Dow and her husband Jerry of Presque Isle, ME and Carol James and her husband Gerry of Presque Isle, ME. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Freddie and one brother William Herman.

Virginia Jean "Ginny" Davenport

Melvin "Mel" Darrell Padgett, age 79, of Manhattan passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 22, 2022 surrounded by family. He was born on November 26,1942 in Manhattan, the son of Robert L. and Gladys C. (Iseman) Padgett.&nbsp; He graduated from Manhattan High School and proudly called the Flint&nbsp;Hills "home." On June 30, 1963 he married Nancy L. Tiemeyer in Clifton, Kansas. In June, Mel and Nancy would have celebrated their&nbsp;59th wedding anniversary.

&nbsp;&nbsp;Mel was a journeyman meat cutter for several years and his&nbsp;art moved to masonry work during his&nbsp;later working years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mel was a hard working man, loving father, husband and beloved grandpa.&nbsp; He was&nbsp;an avid outdoorsman, with a love of wildlife&nbsp;and hunting, fishing and trapping. He taught hundreds of hunter safety classes and also served as the President of the Kansas Hunter Safety Association in the late 1970's. Melvin loved to mentor others. He always took the time to teach&nbsp;anyone who had an interest in these areas no matter what their age or background. Later in life he enjoyed bird watching.

 In addition to his wife Nancy, he is survived by two children and&nbsp;their&nbsp;families.&nbsp; Daughter, Michele West and husband Mike of Wichita and their three adult&nbsp;children Jordan, Alex and Hannah. Also survived by son, Craig Padgett and wife Melody of Manhattan and their two adult children Drew and Ashton.&nbsp;Melvin is also survived by one brother William "Bill" Padgett and one sister Catherine Carlisle. He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, Martin Harper; two brothers, Robert "Bobby" and Grover "LeRoy" Padgett and one sister, Bonnie Kading.

A memorial may be made to the Interim Hospice of Manhattan or KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc. and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.&nbsp;

Melvin "Mel" Darrell Padgett, age 79, of Manhattan passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 22, 2022 surrounded by family. He was born on November 26,1942 in Manhattan, the son of Robert L. and Gladys C. (Iseman) Padgett.&nbsp; He graduated from Manhattan High School and proudly called the Flint&nbsp;Hills "home." On June 30, 1963 he married Nancy L. Tiemeyer in Clifton, Kansas. In June, Mel and Nancy would have celebrated their&nbsp;59th wedding anniversary.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mel was a journeyman meat cutter for several years and his&nbsp;art moved to masonry work during his&nbsp;later working years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mel was a hard working man, loving father, husband and beloved grandpa.&nbsp; He was&nbsp;an avid outdoorsman, with a love of wildlife&nbsp;and hunting, fishing and trapping. He taught hundreds of hunter safety classes and also served as the President of the Kansas Hunter Safety Association in the late 1970's. Melvin loved to mentor others. He always took the time to teach&nbsp;anyone who had an interest in these areas no matter what their age or background. Later in life he enjoyed bird watching. In addition to his wife Nancy, he is survived by two children and&nbsp;their&nbsp;families.&nbsp; Daughter, Michele West and husband Mike of Wichita and their three adult&nbsp;children Jordan, Alex and Hannah. Also survived by son, Craig Padgett and wife Melody of Manhattan and their two adult children Drew and Ashton.&nbsp;Melvin is also survived by one brother William "Bill" Padgett and one sister Catherine Carlisle. He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, Martin Harper; two brothers, Robert "Bobby" and Grover "LeRoy" Padgett and one sister, Bonnie Kading.A memorial may be made to the Interim Hospice of Manhattan or KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc. and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.&nbsp;

Melvin Darrell Padget

Caroline H. Johnson, age 76, of Manhattan, died Tuesday May 24, 2022 at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan. She was born on September 7, 1945. Caroline was a resident of the Big Lakes Developmental Center since 1984. She will be missed by her friends and caregivers, especially Doug Walter, who has been her guardian since 1986. Graveside Services will be at 1:30 p.m. today (Friday May 27, 2022) at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan, with Pastor Melanie Nord officiating. The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the service arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Caroline H. Johnson, age 76, of Manhattan, died Tuesday May 24, 2022 at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan. She was born on September 7, 1945. Caroline was a resident of the Big Lakes Developmental Center since 1984. She will be missed by her friends and caregivers, especially Doug Walter, who has been her guardian since 1986. Graveside Services will be at 1:30 p.m. today (Friday May 27, 2022) at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan, with Pastor Melanie Nord officiating. The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the service arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Caroline H. Johnson

Loyola “Ann” Schell, age 90, of Manhattan, died May 25, 2022, at Homestead Assisted Living in Manhattan. She was born August 12, 1931, in Herkimer, Kansas, the daughter of Martin and Matilda (Meier) Raemer. Ann graduated from St. Gregory’s Grade School, Marysville High School and then attended Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois, for two years for Dental Hygienist School. She was married to Joseph H. “Joe” Schell on August 13, 1952, in Manhattan. Joe preceded her in death in 1996. Ann worked for Doctor Sager as a Dental Hygienist for 20 years. She was a member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church and the Starduster Study Club. Survivors include her two sons: Timothy “Tim” Schell and his wife Romaine of Manhattan, and Anthony “Tony” Schell of Junction City, KS; six grandchildren: Jessica Schell and her fiancé Adrian Stafford, Amy Miernicki and her companion Sam Rutschmann, Morgan Schell, Sara Henderzahs and her husband David, Logan Schell and Justin Cornwall; and nine great-grandchildren. Ann was also preceded in death by her parents and three siblings: Mary Powell, Norbert Raemer and Wilfred “Pete” Raemer. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, June 1st, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church with Father Frank Coady as Celebrant. Graveside services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday at the St. Gregory’s Catholic Cemetery in Marysville, Kansas. The family request no flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Loyola “Ann” Schell, age 90, of Manhattan, died May 25, 2022, at Homestead Assisted Living in Manhattan. She was born August 12, 1931, in Herkimer, Kansas, the daughter of Martin and Matilda (Meier) Raemer. Ann graduated from St. Gregory’s Grade School, Marysville High School and then attended Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois, for two years for Dental Hygienist School. She was married to Joseph H. “Joe” Schell on August 13, 1952, in Manhattan. Joe preceded her in death in 1996. Ann worked for Doctor Sager as a Dental Hygienist for 20 years. She was a member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church and the Starduster Study Club. Survivors include her two sons: Timothy “Tim” Schell and his wife Romaine of Manhattan, and Anthony “Tony” Schell of Junction City, KS; six grandchildren: Jessica Schell and her fiancé Adrian Stafford, Amy Miernicki and her companion Sam Rutschmann, Morgan Schell, Sara Henderzahs and her husband David, Logan Schell and Justin Cornwall; and nine great-grandchildren. Ann was also preceded in death by her parents and three siblings: Mary Powell, Norbert Raemer and Wilfred “Pete” Raemer. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, June 1st, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church with Father Frank Coady as Celebrant. Graveside services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday at the St. Gregory’s Catholic Cemetery in Marysville, Kansas. The family request no flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Loyola “Ann” Schell

Clay Carey Cameron Weekes, age 51, of Manhattan, died May 21, 2022, at Stormont-Vail Health in Topeka. He was born September 30, 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, the son of Colin Victor and Cybil Theresa (Husbands) Weekes, and had been a Manhattan resident since 2011. Clay served for 21 years in the United States Army and retired in 2016, at the rank of Sergeant First Class. He was currently working as a Security Technician at the Manhattan Regional Airport. He was a member of the Living Word International Ministries Church in Junction City, Kansas. Clay was proud of his family being from Barbados and was a true Bajan in every since of the word. He had a great love for collecting various toys and all things comicon. He most importantly loved the Lord and loved people and demonstrated this in his daily actions. Clay would have been proud to know he saved three lives through organ donation. He was married to Arthalia S. Grey on May 7, 2005, at Fort Hood, Texas. Arthalia survives of the home. Additional survivors include his two sons: Jonathan Weekes of Katy, TX, and Joshua Weekes of Fort Bragg, NC; his mother Cybil Weekes of Brooklyn, NY; and three brothers: Carl Weekes of Barbados, and Victor Weekes and Jason Weekes both of New York. Family and friends may pay their respects from 8:00 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, June 2nd and 3rd at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. A Celebration of Clay’s Life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 4th, at the Living Word International Ministries Church, 1704 St. Marys Road, Junction City, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to the City of Manhattan for the Douglass Center. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Clay Carey Cameron Weekes, age 51, of Manhattan, died May 21, 2022, at Stormont-Vail Health in Topeka. He was born September 30, 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, the son of Colin Victor and Cybil Theresa (Husbands) Weekes, and had been a Manhattan resident since 2011. Clay served for 21 years in the United States Army and retired in 2016, at the rank of Sergeant First Class. He was currently working as a Security Technician at the Manhattan Regional Airport. He was a member of the Living Word International Ministries Church in Junction City, Kansas. Clay was proud of his family being from Barbados and was a true Bajan in every since of the word. He had a great love for collecting various toys and all things comicon. He most importantly loved the Lord and loved people and demonstrated this in his daily actions. Clay would have been proud to know he saved three lives through organ donation. He was married to Arthalia S. Grey on May 7, 2005, at Fort Hood, Texas. Arthalia survives of the home. Additional survivors include his two sons: Jonathan Weekes of Katy, TX, and Joshua Weekes of Fort Bragg, NC; his mother Cybil Weekes of Brooklyn, NY; and three brothers: Carl Weekes of Barbados, and Victor Weekes and Jason Weekes both of New York. Family and friends may pay their respects from 8:00 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, June 2nd and 3rd at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. A Celebration of Clay’s Life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 4th, at the Living Word International Ministries Church, 1704 St. Marys Road, Junction City, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to the City of Manhattan for the Douglass Center. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Clay Carey Cameron Weekes

Patricia J. Guth died May 25, 2022, at Lexington Park Rehabilitation Center in Topeka.

She was born June 20, 1930, in Topeka, the daughter of Herman and Ocea Rogers-Mansell.

Mrs. Guth attended Alma High School and Kansas State University. She was the co-owner of Guth Insurance and Real Estate Agency in Wamego for over 30 years.

Mrs. Guth was a member of St. Bernard's Catholic Church, Wamego, Kansas. She was a member of the Pottawatomie County Cancer Society and was active for many years in the annual fund drives for the society.

She was married to Clement B. Guth on December 27, 1948, in Alma, Kansas. He preceded her in death.

&nbsp; &nbsp;Patricia is survived by her son, Larry R. Guth of Topeka.

A visitation will be Tuesday, May 31, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego. Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Wamego, followed by Burial at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials and donations are suggested to the American Heart Association, or the CAT Association of Topeka and may be left in care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.&nbsp;

Patricia J. Guth died May 25, 2022, at Lexington Park Rehabilitation Center in Topeka.She was born June 20, 1930, in Topeka, the daughter of Herman and Ocea Rogers-Mansell.Mrs. Guth attended Alma High School and Kansas State University. She was the co-owner of Guth Insurance and Real Estate Agency in Wamego for over 30 years.Mrs. Guth was a member of St. Bernard's Catholic Church, Wamego, Kansas. She was a member of the Pottawatomie County Cancer Society and was active for many years in the annual fund drives for the society.She was married to Clement B. Guth on December 27, 1948, in Alma, Kansas. He preceded her in death.&nbsp; &nbsp;Patricia is survived by her son, Larry R. Guth of Topeka.A visitation will be Tuesday, May 31, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego. Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Wamego, followed by Burial at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials and donations are suggested to the American Heart Association, or the CAT Association of Topeka and may be left in care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.&nbsp;

Patricia J. Guth

Eldon A. Riffel, 84 passed away Sunday, May 22, 2022 in Abilene KS. He was born on November 29, 1937 in rural Hope KS, the son of Manuel and Mabel (Buenning) Riffel.

Growing up in the Navarre KS area, Eldon attended Walnut Grove and Navarre schools, and was a 1955 graduate of Chapman High School. In 1957 he married Darlene Hartung, who passed away in 1960. On December 2, 1962, he married Patricia “Pat” A. Klingberg in Hope KS. They spent their married life at their home in rural Hope. Eldon’s priorities in life were based on faith, family, and service. He was a leader in his church and community holding the position of a deacon at the Ebenezer Baptist Church for 46 years, was a song leader, and Sunday school teacher. Additionally, he held school board positions at Hope/White City schools.

Eldon enjoyed farm life, raising crops and cattle in the Hope and Navarre areas. He was also a distinguished finish carpenter. With his loving wife Pat, he sang duets, tended garden, and made memories with children and grandchildren. He was loved for his sense of humor.

Eldon was preceded in death by wife Darlene Riffel of 3 years, wife Pat Riffel of 57 years, his parents, brother Maynard Riffel, brother Robert Riffel, son Kenneth Riffel, and granddaughter Laura Farley. Survivors include: daughter-in-law Carla Riffel (Kenneth) of Hope, son Dr. Alan Lyne (Monica) of Ventura CA, son Robert Riffel of Wichita, daughter Susan Albrecht (Mark) of Bella Vista AR, son Cecil Riffel (Cynthia) of Hope, daughter Lorrie Adkins of Hope, son Scott Riffel (Amanda) of Haltom City TX, son Roger Riffel (Jenni) of Omaha NE, sister-in-law Jean Riffel (Maynard) of Rose Hill, sister-in-law Marilyn Hostetter (Donnie) of Hope, sister-in-law Lynda Hise (Del) of Albany OR, 24 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 28 at Ebenezer Baptist Church in rural Abilene KS with Pastor Dwight Richardson officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 27 at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third Street, Abilene, KS, 67410.

The family suggests memorial contributions in his memory be made to Ebenezer Baptist Church. They may be left at the church the day of the service at visitation on Friday or sent in care of Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third Street, Abilene, KS, 67410.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Eldon A. Riffel, 84 passed away Sunday, May 22, 2022 in Abilene KS. He was born on November 29, 1937 in rural Hope KS, the son of Manuel and Mabel (Buenning) Riffel. Growing up in the Navarre KS area, Eldon attended Walnut Grove and Navarre schools, and was a 1955 graduate of Chapman High School. In 1957 he married Darlene Hartung, who passed away in 1960. On December 2, 1962, he married Patricia “Pat” A. Klingberg in Hope KS. They spent their married life at their home in rural Hope. Eldon’s priorities in life were based on faith, family, and service. He was a leader in his church and community holding the position of a deacon at the Ebenezer Baptist Church for 46 years, was a song leader, and Sunday school teacher. Additionally, he held school board positions at Hope/White City schools. Eldon enjoyed farm life, raising crops and cattle in the Hope and Navarre areas. He was also a distinguished finish carpenter. With his loving wife Pat, he sang duets, tended garden, and made memories with children and grandchildren. He was loved for his sense of humor. Eldon was preceded in death by wife Darlene Riffel of 3 years, wife Pat Riffel of 57 years, his parents, brother Maynard Riffel, brother Robert Riffel, son Kenneth Riffel, and granddaughter Laura Farley. Survivors include: daughter-in-law Carla Riffel (Kenneth) of Hope, son Dr. Alan Lyne (Monica) of Ventura CA, son Robert Riffel of Wichita, daughter Susan Albrecht (Mark) of Bella Vista AR, son Cecil Riffel (Cynthia) of Hope, daughter Lorrie Adkins of Hope, son Scott Riffel (Amanda) of Haltom City TX, son Roger Riffel (Jenni) of Omaha NE, sister-in-law Jean Riffel (Maynard) of Rose Hill, sister-in-law Marilyn Hostetter (Donnie) of Hope, sister-in-law Lynda Hise (Del) of Albany OR, 24 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 28 at Ebenezer Baptist Church in rural Abilene KS with Pastor Dwight Richardson officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 27 at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third Street, Abilene, KS, 67410. The family suggests memorial contributions in his memory be made to Ebenezer Baptist Church. They may be left at the church the day of the service at visitation on Friday or sent in care of Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third Street, Abilene, KS, 67410.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Eldon A. Riffel

Allan Smoot died on Sunday, May 22, 2022, at the Geary Community Hospital in Junction City, KS. Cremation will take place. A private family service is planned. He was born in St. John, NB, Canada on January 26, 1945. He and his brother Carl were adopted by EP Smoot and Marian Smoot when he was 6 months old to their established home in West Glenville, NY. He attended Scotia-Glenville schools and graduated from high school in 1963. He then moved to Kansas and attended Kansas State University. He was always very talented in music and played first chair in the orchestra for cello. He could play the piano and guitar. He and his mother frequently played cello and piano duets. He was married in Kansas and began raising two boys, Edward and James. He was then divorced. He served 16 years in the Kansas National Guard with a final rank of Sergeant First Class. He had multiple jobs and businesses. He worked managing the Triplett Gas Station, owned and managed his restaurant, owned and managed bars, worked for subcontractors on Ft. Riley. He had an auto accident in 1992 which resulted in over 50% burns and multiple fractures. He spent over 4 months on a ventilator at the KU Burn Center. He had multiple skin grafts and bone fixation. He wore a compression suit to keep his skin grafts stable for a year, assisted by his multiple friends, then returned to work. He has always been hard working, very kind, and somewhat shy his entire life. He has multiple friends in the Junction City area. He has enjoyed working on antique cars and taking care of multiple rescue dogs. He is survived by his brother Carl of Kingsford, MI; his sons Ed and James, of Paola, KS.

Allan Smoot died on Sunday, May 22, 2022, at the Geary Community Hospital in Junction City, KS. Cremation will take place. A private family service is planned. He was born in St. John, NB, Canada on January 26, 1945. He and his brother Carl were adopted by EP Smoot and Marian Smoot when he was 6 months old to their established home in West Glenville, NY. He attended Scotia-Glenville schools and graduated from high school in 1963. He then moved to Kansas and attended Kansas State University. He was always very talented in music and played first chair in the orchestra for cello. He could play the piano and guitar. He and his mother frequently played cello and piano duets. He was married in Kansas and began raising two boys, Edward and James. He was then divorced. He served 16 years in the Kansas National Guard with a final rank of Sergeant First Class. He had multiple jobs and businesses. He worked managing the Triplett Gas Station, owned and managed his restaurant, owned and managed bars, worked for subcontractors on Ft. Riley. He had an auto accident in 1992 which resulted in over 50% burns and multiple fractures. He spent over 4 months on a ventilator at the KU Burn Center. He had multiple skin grafts and bone fixation. He wore a compression suit to keep his skin grafts stable for a year, assisted by his multiple friends, then returned to work. He has always been hard working, very kind, and somewhat shy his entire life. He has multiple friends in the Junction City area. He has enjoyed working on antique cars and taking care of multiple rescue dogs. He is survived by his brother Carl of Kingsford, MI; his sons Ed and James, of Paola, KS.

Allan Smoot

William H. McReynolds, age 76, of Blue Rapids, passed away Friday, May 20, 2022, at Bryan Medical Center West in Lincoln, Nebraska.

William was born October 15, 1945, in Independence, Missouri, to John and Florence B. (Ipson) McReynolds. He attended Blue Rapids High School.&nbsp; William worked for Pyramid Manufacturing in Onaga and then Travalong Trailers in Waterville, retiring in 2007.

William enjoyed reading science fiction and mystery novels.&nbsp; When he was younger he loved to go fishing.&nbsp; He also loved to laugh at a good pun or witty comeback.

Survivors include his brother Owen McReynolds, a niece Angela Fensom and a nephew John M. McReynolds.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother John McReynolds.&nbsp;

A private inurnment will be held at Fairmont Cemetery in Blue Rapids.

Memorials are suggested the charity of the donor’s choice in William’s name.

William H. McReynolds, age 76, of Blue Rapids, passed away Friday, May 20, 2022, at Bryan Medical Center West in Lincoln, Nebraska.William was born October 15, 1945, in Independence, Missouri, to John and Florence B. (Ipson) McReynolds. He attended Blue Rapids High School.&nbsp; William worked for Pyramid Manufacturing in Onaga and then Travalong Trailers in Waterville, retiring in 2007.William enjoyed reading science fiction and mystery novels.&nbsp; When he was younger he loved to go fishing.&nbsp; He also loved to laugh at a good pun or witty comeback.Survivors include his brother Owen McReynolds, a niece Angela Fensom and a nephew John M. McReynolds.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother John McReynolds.&nbsp;A private inurnment will be held at Fairmont Cemetery in Blue Rapids.Memorials are suggested the charity of the donor’s choice in William’s name.

William H. McReynolds

Richard C. “Rick” Thompson, age 65, of Omaha, passed away on Wednesday, May 18, 2022, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

Rick was born July 31, 1956, in Omaha, to Eugene J. and Iris I. (Fleck) Thompson.&nbsp; He married Deborah D. Claycamp on August 17, 1973, in Omaha.&nbsp;&nbsp; He joined four of his brothers in the Nebraska Army National Guard and served for six years.&nbsp; Rick worked for the city of Omaha in Parks and Street Maintenance retiring in 2013.&nbsp; He then worked for Atlas Awning in Omaha. He was a member of Word of Life Fellowship in Omaha.

To Rick, family was everything.&nbsp; A faithful, loving, and constant friend to his wife of almost 51 years, a proud and loving father to his children, and Papa to his grandchildren.&nbsp; Rick loved his family beyond words and over the years his family was extended as he became a surrogate father and mentor to his many nieces, nephews, and many of the kids in the neighborhood. Rick even picked up a few extra grandchildren in the neighborhood as he always took time to let them know he was the nice guy with the endless supply of popsicles on the block. If you spent any time around Rick, you soon learned He was a prankster. On rare occasions, Rick would prank himself when he would forget about one of his well laid plans only to come across it later after he had forgotten about it.

Survivors include his wife Deb, his four children:&nbsp;Jeramie K. (Richelle) Thompson of Council Bluffs, Amos J. (Madyson) Thompson of Omaha, John R. (Kelly) Thompson of Treynor, Iowa, and Charla (Troy) Long of Omaha, seven siblings: Jerry (Dorothy) Blessing of Cheyenne, Wyoming, James (Jessie) Thompson of Omaha, Ronald Thompson of Alchester, South Dakota, Donald (Andreanna) Thompson of&nbsp;&nbsp; Hawarden, South&nbsp;&nbsp; Dakota, David (Nellie) Thompson of Tucson, Arizona, John Thompson of Omaha, and Sheila Daggett of Des Moines, Iowa, twelve grandchildren: Jordin, Iris, Kyle, Grace, Bristol, Scout, Michael, Racquel, Rylan, Esme, Jiselle, Olivia, and one great grandchild, Ivy.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, Iris Thompson and two brothers: Gary Thompson and Robert Thompson.

Funeral services are being planned for 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 27, 2022, at Christie-Anderes Funeral Home in Waterville, Kansas, with Pastor BJ Justice and Pastor Mark Justice officiating.&nbsp; Music will include pre-recorded selections of “Go Rest High On That Mountain” and “If I had Only Known”.&nbsp; Bearers include Jeramie Thompson, Amos Thompson, John Thompson, Kenny Thompson, Michael Claycamp and Eric Galvan.&nbsp; Honorary Bearers include Troy Long, JR Stewart and Richardo Torres. &nbsp;Burial will follow at Fairmont Cemetery Blue Rapids, Kansas.

Memorials are suggested to the funeral home to help with expenses and may be sent in care of Christie-Anderes Funeral Home at PO Box 61, Waterville, Kansas 66548.

Richard C. “Rick” Thompson, age 65, of Omaha, passed away on Wednesday, May 18, 2022, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.Rick was born July 31, 1956, in Omaha, to Eugene J. and Iris I. (Fleck) Thompson.&nbsp; He married Deborah D. Claycamp on August 17, 1973, in Omaha.&nbsp;&nbsp; He joined four of his brothers in the Nebraska Army National Guard and served for six years.&nbsp; Rick worked for the city of Omaha in Parks and Street Maintenance retiring in 2013.&nbsp; He then worked for Atlas Awning in Omaha. He was a member of Word of Life Fellowship in Omaha.To Rick, family was everything.&nbsp; A faithful, loving, and constant friend to his wife of almost 51 years, a proud and loving father to his children, and Papa to his grandchildren.&nbsp; Rick loved his family beyond words and over the years his family was extended as he became a surrogate father and mentor to his many nieces, nephews, and many of the kids in the neighborhood. Rick even picked up a few extra grandchildren in the neighborhood as he always took time to let them know he was the nice guy with the endless supply of popsicles on the block. If you spent any time around Rick, you soon learned He was a prankster. On rare occasions, Rick would prank himself when he would forget about one of his well laid plans only to come across it later after he had forgotten about it.Survivors include his wife Deb, his four children:&nbsp;Jeramie K. (Richelle) Thompson of Council Bluffs, Amos J. (Madyson) Thompson of Omaha, John R. (Kelly) Thompson of Treynor, Iowa, and Charla (Troy) Long of Omaha, seven siblings: Jerry (Dorothy) Blessing of Cheyenne, Wyoming, James (Jessie) Thompson of Omaha, Ronald Thompson of Alchester, South Dakota, Donald (Andreanna) Thompson of&nbsp;&nbsp; Hawarden, South&nbsp;&nbsp; Dakota, David (Nellie) Thompson of Tucson, Arizona, John Thompson of Omaha, and Sheila Daggett of Des Moines, Iowa, twelve grandchildren: Jordin, Iris, Kyle, Grace, Bristol, Scout, Michael, Racquel, Rylan, Esme, Jiselle, Olivia, and one great grandchild, Ivy.Rick was preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, Iris Thompson and two brothers: Gary Thompson and Robert Thompson.Funeral services are being planned for 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 27, 2022, at Christie-Anderes Funeral Home in Waterville, Kansas, with Pastor BJ Justice and Pastor Mark Justice officiating.&nbsp; Music will include pre-recorded selections of “Go Rest High On That Mountain” and “If I had Only Known”.&nbsp; Bearers include Jeramie Thompson, Amos Thompson, John Thompson, Kenny Thompson, Michael Claycamp and Eric Galvan.&nbsp; Honorary Bearers include Troy Long, JR Stewart and Richardo Torres. &nbsp;Burial will follow at Fairmont Cemetery Blue Rapids, Kansas.Memorials are suggested to the funeral home to help with expenses and may be sent in care of Christie-Anderes Funeral Home at PO Box 61, Waterville, Kansas 66548.

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