Marilyn Morton Hartke, 89, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2022 in Worcester, MA. Marilyn loved her large extended family unconditionally, was a tireless letter-writer, loved to laugh, and inspired devotion and joy in all who knew her.

She leaves behind her daughters Linda of Westborough, MA, Janet (Mark Bowser) of Dover, MA, and Sue (Anna Bowman) of Carnation, WA, along with loving nieces and nephews. “Ammy” was cherished by her grandchildren Lexie and William of Somerville, MA and New York, NY. She was preceded in death by her husband Jerry, daughter Nancy Ann, and her siblings Marjorie Morton Mattson, Helen Morton Fincke, Raymond Morton, and Harold Morton.

Marilyn was born on the family farm of her parents Raymond and Leafy Thierolf Morton on May 3, 1933, outside of Wamego, Kansas. She was the baby of the family, and grew up collecting eggs, taking care of her dog Laddie and her pet lamb Bubbles, and trying to keep up with her older siblings. She graduated from Wamego High School in 1951 and then attended Kansas State University, where she received her BS degree in child development and education. Just out of college, she taught second grade at the Wakefield, KS elementary school.

Marilyn met Jerome ‘Jerry’ Hartke on a blind date in college, and they married on June 3, 1956. They built a home and raised their family in Webster, New York and then Sudbury, MA, retiring to Lancaster and then Westborough, MA. They enjoyed 63 happy years of marriage together.

Her first priority through her entire adult life was her husband and three girls, and her large network of family and friends. She created a beautiful home wherever she lived, and loved sharing it with others. An avid bridge player and an excellent cook, she mailed hundreds of homemade Christmas cookies each year to family members across the country. Marilyn also loved gardening and plants, especially African Violets which filled her homes.

Over the years she worked as an ‘Avon Lady’ and in clothing retail at Appleseed’s, and later was an antique dealer for many years specializing in Nippon and Shelley china. Her antiquing expeditions with family and friends in Maine and elsewhere were legendary, as was her extraordinary collection of teacups. Also an avid scrapbooker, she created extensive family history albums for all of her children.

Always a woman of faith, Marilyn was an active member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sudbury, MA and later of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Westborough, MA.

A memorial service will celebrate Marilyn’s life at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 16th at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Westborough, MA. For those wishing to view the service live via Facebook, you can view it at https://www.facebook.com/gslcwestboro/. A recording of the service may also be viewed later on the YouTube channel of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Westborough, MA.

Graveside memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday (October 1, 2022) in the Wamego City Cemetery.&nbsp; Friends are invited to attend.

Arrangements for services in Wamego are in the care of the Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.&nbsp;

Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 183 W. Main St., Westborough, MA 01581 or www.goodshepherdcares.org.

Marilyn Morton Hartke, 89, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2022 in Worcester, MA. Marilyn loved her large extended family unconditionally, was a tireless letter-writer, loved to laugh, and inspired devotion and joy in all who knew her.She leaves behind her daughters Linda of Westborough, MA, Janet (Mark Bowser) of Dover, MA, and Sue (Anna Bowman) of Carnation, WA, along with loving nieces and nephews. “Ammy” was cherished by her grandchildren Lexie and William of Somerville, MA and New York, NY. She was preceded in death by her husband Jerry, daughter Nancy Ann, and her siblings Marjorie Morton Mattson, Helen Morton Fincke, Raymond Morton, and Harold Morton.Marilyn was born on the family farm of her parents Raymond and Leafy Thierolf Morton on May 3, 1933, outside of Wamego, Kansas. She was the baby of the family, and grew up collecting eggs, taking care of her dog Laddie and her pet lamb Bubbles, and trying to keep up with her older siblings. She graduated from Wamego High School in 1951 and then attended Kansas State University, where she received her BS degree in child development and education. Just out of college, she taught second grade at the Wakefield, KS elementary school.Marilyn met Jerome ‘Jerry’ Hartke on a blind date in college, and they married on June 3, 1956. They built a home and raised their family in Webster, New York and then Sudbury, MA, retiring to Lancaster and then Westborough, MA. They enjoyed 63 happy years of marriage together.Her first priority through her entire adult life was her husband and three girls, and her large network of family and friends. She created a beautiful home wherever she lived, and loved sharing it with others. An avid bridge player and an excellent cook, she mailed hundreds of homemade Christmas cookies each year to family members across the country. Marilyn also loved gardening and plants, especially African Violets which filled her homes.Over the years she worked as an ‘Avon Lady’ and in clothing retail at Appleseed’s, and later was an antique dealer for many years specializing in Nippon and Shelley china. Her antiquing expeditions with family and friends in Maine and elsewhere were legendary, as was her extraordinary collection of teacups. Also an avid scrapbooker, she created extensive family history albums for all of her children.Always a woman of faith, Marilyn was an active member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sudbury, MA and later of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Westborough, MA.A memorial service will celebrate Marilyn’s life at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 16th at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Westborough, MA. For those wishing to view the service live via Facebook, you can view it at https://www.facebook.com/gslcwestboro/. A recording of the service may also be viewed later on the YouTube channel of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Westborough, MA.Graveside memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday (October 1, 2022) in the Wamego City Cemetery.&nbsp; Friends are invited to attend.Arrangements for services in Wamego are in the care of the Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.&nbsp;Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 183 W. Main St., Westborough, MA 01581 or www.goodshepherdcares.org.

Marilyn Morton Hartke

An obituary will be posted soon in care of Johnson Cremations, Funerals and Receptions.

Service: Private Service,&nbsp; Johnson Cremations, Funerals &amp; Receptions 203 North Washington, Junction City, KS&nbsp;&nbsp;66441 78.

Visitation:&nbsp; Private Visitation.

An obituary will be posted soon in care of Johnson Cremations, Funerals and Receptions. Service: Private Service,&nbsp; Johnson Cremations, Funerals &amp; Receptions 203 North Washington, Junction City, KS&nbsp;&nbsp;66441 78.Visitation:&nbsp; Private Visitation.

Stephanie Ervin - 1980 - 2022

Claude Merrill Sams&nbsp;&nbsp;84 died July 27, 2022, in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; He was born on June 6, 1938, in Caldwell, Idaho the son of Gordon and Julia (Spaur) Sams.&nbsp; Merrill served in the US Army and the Army National Guard for more than 30 years.&nbsp; He also worked as a truck driver.&nbsp; Merrill married Peggy Shumate.&nbsp; They made their home in Kennewick, WA, Idaho, North Dakota and Kansas before settling in Miltonvale.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside Services:&nbsp;1:00 p.m. Friday, August 5, 2022, at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at Fort Riley

Memorials:&nbsp;&nbsp;Alzheimer's Association c/o the funeral home, 918 7th St, Clay Center, KS 67432

Claude Merrill Sams&nbsp;&nbsp;84 died July 27, 2022, in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; He was born on June 6, 1938, in Caldwell, Idaho the son of Gordon and Julia (Spaur) Sams.&nbsp; Merrill served in the US Army and the Army National Guard for more than 30 years.&nbsp; He also worked as a truck driver.&nbsp; Merrill married Peggy Shumate.&nbsp; They made their home in Kennewick, WA, Idaho, North Dakota and Kansas before settling in Miltonvale.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents.Survivors:Brothers Claire and Robert SamsGraveside Services:&nbsp;1:00 p.m. Friday, August 5, 2022, at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at Fort RileyMemorials:&nbsp;&nbsp;Alzheimer's Association c/o the funeral home, 918 7th St, Clay Center, KS 67432

Claude Merrill Sams

Nina Jo Rusco, age 92, died on July 26, 2022, in Topeka, Kansas. Nina Jo prepared her life story to share.

Life of Nina Jo (wife, mother and teacher- AND Grandma- that’s me!) I was born August 19, 1929, in Vining, Kansas, at the home of my grandparents, Charles and Ina Haynes Rusco. My parents were Hazel Rusco Huls and Joseph Hugh Huls. For a time, we lived in Ft. Worth, Texas, but when I was about 3, my parents separated, and I spent the next 22 years of my life with Mom, Granny and Granddad in the house where I was born. Though I missed the presence of my father, my life in small town Vining with my mother and her family was good for a little girl and I was mostly happy.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

I attended 12 years in the Clifton Grade and High schools where I received my basic education. After my graduation in 1947, my friend Iris and I went to summer school at Kansas State College and in the fall, I began a teaching career that spanned the 50 some years between 1947 and 1998. I continued my education at Kansas State University for 2 full semesters and 10 summers and graduated in the summer of 1958. A few years later I was accepted to the graduate school of K- State but stopped my time-consuming studies just a few hours short of acquiring my master’s degree, to be home with my young daughters and husband on the farm.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

On January 16, 1954, I was engaged to my long-time sweetheart, Delbert Rusco Jr. on his 26th birthday. We had waited a good many years to announce our commitment to each either, so it was an exciting and very happy day for us. Later that same year&nbsp;on December 26th, we were married by Dr. Samuel George in Manhattan, Kansas, at the KSU campus Chapel. We had both grown up as lonely, only children, so for us, just being together every day was very special. In the spring of 1956, we moved to the farm home where Jr’s parents began their married life in 1921 and where their only son, my Jr., was born in 1928. They resided on the farm until Delbert Sr.’s retirement at which time Jr. assumed the farming responsibilities. We lived here with our family until 1990 when I became the sole resident of the old farm home.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;We had two beautiful daughters, Robin Hazel, in September 1959, and Roxanna Kathryn in July 1961. In 1981 Robin married Andy Vélez and they blessed us with four wonderful grandchildren: Jari Rusco, Elena Jo, Tessa Hawley, and Josiah Elliott. After Josiah’s birth in 1996, I thought our family was complete, but wonder of wonders, in January 2001, Roxie had a darling baby boy. My happiness was complete when she named him Charles for my beloved granddad. I love being “Nanny” to those 5 grandkids.

Most of the dear people of my early years were long ago lost to me including an infant baby sister Leonainie, my parents Joe and Hazel, grandparents, all of my aunts and uncles, cousin Diana and many, many good friends. All were gone too soon- or so it seems to me.&nbsp;

Tragedy struck our family in 1990 when my strong, handsome husband suffered a severe brain aneurysm which resulted in a devastating illness of 2 years and finally his death in 1992. I miss Jr. terribly, oh, so much, but I have found I’m happiest and almost content remaining in the comfortable home he provided for me- with all its wonderful memories! As of this writing in August of 2004, I’m still enjoying living here on the Rusco homesteaded farm tending my flowers and garden, reading, visiting, and dining with friends, and making frequent trips to spend time with my children in Topeka.&nbsp;

I am proud of my affiliation with several worthy organizations, but mine are very passive memberships as I’ve never been comfortable in a leadership or “hosting” role. I belong to the following: Presbyterian church, Eastern Star, Legion Auxiliary, Historical Society and D.A.R.

*Nina was also blessed with 5 great-grandchildren: Adelle, Callan, Silas, and Julian Vélez and Watson Stacks. Number 6 (great-grandson Stacks) is coming this September. &nbsp;

Burial will take place at the Rusco Cemetery close to the Rusco Farm where Robin and Andy spend a lot of time and are open to visitors.

Memorials can be made to the Nina Jo Rusco Memorial Fund to be designated at a later date c/o the Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home.

Nina Jo Rusco, age 92, died on July 26, 2022, in Topeka, Kansas. Nina Jo prepared her life story to share.Life of Nina Jo (wife, mother and teacher- AND Grandma- that’s me!) I was born August 19, 1929, in Vining, Kansas, at the home of my grandparents, Charles and Ina Haynes Rusco. My parents were Hazel Rusco Huls and Joseph Hugh Huls. For a time, we lived in Ft. Worth, Texas, but when I was about 3, my parents separated, and I spent the next 22 years of my life with Mom, Granny and Granddad in the house where I was born. Though I missed the presence of my father, my life in small town Vining with my mother and her family was good for a little girl and I was mostly happy.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;I attended 12 years in the Clifton Grade and High schools where I received my basic education. After my graduation in 1947, my friend Iris and I went to summer school at Kansas State College and in the fall, I began a teaching career that spanned the 50 some years between 1947 and 1998. I continued my education at Kansas State University for 2 full semesters and 10 summers and graduated in the summer of 1958. A few years later I was accepted to the graduate school of K- State but stopped my time-consuming studies just a few hours short of acquiring my master’s degree, to be home with my young daughters and husband on the farm.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On January 16, 1954, I was engaged to my long-time sweetheart, Delbert Rusco Jr. on his 26th birthday. We had waited a good many years to announce our commitment to each either, so it was an exciting and very happy day for us. Later that same year&nbsp;on December 26th, we were married by Dr. Samuel George in Manhattan, Kansas, at the KSU campus Chapel. We had both grown up as lonely, only children, so for us, just being together every day was very special. In the spring of 1956, we moved to the farm home where Jr’s parents began their married life in 1921 and where their only son, my Jr., was born in 1928. They resided on the farm until Delbert Sr.’s retirement at which time Jr. assumed the farming responsibilities. We lived here with our family until 1990 when I became the sole resident of the old farm home.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;We had two beautiful daughters, Robin Hazel, in September 1959, and Roxanna Kathryn in July 1961. In 1981 Robin married Andy Vélez and they blessed us with four wonderful grandchildren: Jari Rusco, Elena Jo, Tessa Hawley, and Josiah Elliott. After Josiah’s birth in 1996, I thought our family was complete, but wonder of wonders, in January 2001, Roxie had a darling baby boy. My happiness was complete when she named him Charles for my beloved granddad. I love being “Nanny” to those 5 grandkids.Most of the dear people of my early years were long ago lost to me including an infant baby sister Leonainie, my parents Joe and Hazel, grandparents, all of my aunts and uncles, cousin Diana and many, many good friends. All were gone too soon- or so it seems to me.&nbsp;Tragedy struck our family in 1990 when my strong, handsome husband suffered a severe brain aneurysm which resulted in a devastating illness of 2 years and finally his death in 1992. I miss Jr. terribly, oh, so much, but I have found I’m happiest and almost content remaining in the comfortable home he provided for me- with all its wonderful memories! As of this writing in August of 2004, I’m still enjoying living here on the Rusco homesteaded farm tending my flowers and garden, reading, visiting, and dining with friends, and making frequent trips to spend time with my children in Topeka.&nbsp;I am proud of my affiliation with several worthy organizations, but mine are very passive memberships as I’ve never been comfortable in a leadership or “hosting” role. I belong to the following: Presbyterian church, Eastern Star, Legion Auxiliary, Historical Society and D.A.R.*Nina was also blessed with 5 great-grandchildren: Adelle, Callan, Silas, and Julian Vélez and Watson Stacks. Number 6 (great-grandson Stacks) is coming this September. &nbsp;Burial will take place at the Rusco Cemetery close to the Rusco Farm where Robin and Andy spend a lot of time and are open to visitors.Memorials can be made to the Nina Jo Rusco Memorial Fund to be designated at a later date c/o the Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home.

Nina Jo Rusco

Ronnie R. McWhirt was born February 18, 1949 in La Junta, Colorado the son of Junior and Helen (Harris) McWhirt. He passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2022 at the Village Manor Nursing Home in Abilene. He had been a longtime Salina resident. Ronnie served in the United States Army and Army Reserves for over 41 years serving in Viet Nam. He was a Heavy Mobile Equipment Repairman. He retired as a Sergeant First Class. He loved working and spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. He was united in marriage to Ronda Thomas on November 21, 2018 in Abilene. She survives of the home. Other survivors include his daughter Jessie King (Billy) of Manhattan, Kansas, step daughters Stacy Klein (Eric) of Minneapolis, Jo Emig (Dusty) of Abilene, close friend Daryle Schwerdt (Terri) of Salina, and eight grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents. Graveside services for Ronnie will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 30, 2022 at the Detroit Cemetery with military honors provided by the United States Honor Guard. His family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Dickinson County and may be sent in care of the Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW 3rd, Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ronnie R. McWhirt was born February 18, 1949 in La Junta, Colorado the son of Junior and Helen (Harris) McWhirt. He passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2022 at the Village Manor Nursing Home in Abilene. He had been a longtime Salina resident. Ronnie served in the United States Army and Army Reserves for over 41 years serving in Viet Nam. He was a Heavy Mobile Equipment Repairman. He retired as a Sergeant First Class. He loved working and spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. He was united in marriage to Ronda Thomas on November 21, 2018 in Abilene. She survives of the home. Other survivors include his daughter Jessie King (Billy) of Manhattan, Kansas, step daughters Stacy Klein (Eric) of Minneapolis, Jo Emig (Dusty) of Abilene, close friend Daryle Schwerdt (Terri) of Salina, and eight grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents. Graveside services for Ronnie will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 30, 2022 at the Detroit Cemetery with military honors provided by the United States Honor Guard. His family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Dickinson County and may be sent in care of the Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW 3rd, Abilene, Kansas 67410.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ronnie R. McWhirt

James (Jim) Edward Livergood, Chief Master Sergeant United States Air Force (retired), age 71, died on July 19, 2022, outdoors, on the land of the home he had built and loved, in Knob Noster, Missouri.

Jim was born on November 24, 1950 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Arlo and Patricia (Genschorck) Livergood. Jim grew up and spent his formative years in the Waterville and Manhattan, Kansas area. On September 6, 1969, he married Mary Schultz. They spent the next 53 years together, thirty of those years, traveling the world, in service of the United States Air Force.

Jim enlisted in October of 1970, serving with honor and distinction, retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant, (E9). Of note, Jim achieved the rank of E9 in his 18th&nbsp;year of service. He served 30 years at duty stations all over the world. Most of them with Mary and their daughters by his side. Jim served over 12 years of his career as an E9, Chief Master Sergeant, a rare honor.

Jim was instrumental in building the B-2 Stealth Bomber maintenance program. He planned and oversaw the delivery of the first B-2 Stealth Bomber to Whiteman Air Force Base. Whiteman Air Force Base was his final duty station. Jim didn’t brag or boast about his military career. However, reading his paperwork after his death, it was clear that although several Generals and politicians were the fathers of the B-2 program, Jim Livergood was its mother. Jim stacked up more military awards and citations than can be recounted. However, the Meritorious Service Medal with 5 Oakleaf Clusters and the Air Force Commendation medal with 2 Oakleaf Clusters were representative.

Jim took quite pride knowing that “his” B-2’s, after leaving Whiteman Air Force Base, silently and without notice, could rain down fire and brimstone halfway around the world. To then return safe and sound and be prepared for whatever came next by Jim and his crews.

After his retirement, Jim and Mary remained on the land that they had bought at the house that they had built and became grandparents and bison farmers.&nbsp; Jim served as the president of the Missouri Bison Association and spent the next 22 years hunting, fishing, traveling to the national parks and spending time with family and friends. He was devoted to his grandchildren.

Jim’s family events and outings were frequent and common. They included not only his immediate family but his nephews, friends, cousins and second cousins. Jim loved his family and was particularly fond of those he had grown up around as a child and teenager.

Jim often spent days or weekends traveling to see or be with a family member, especially on Memorial Day or other holidays. He enjoyed the Chiefs, Royals and their games, in person. Always with family.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Mary Livergood, two daughters, Carisa Sims (Tom Lemon) of Topeka and Angela Livergood of Columbia, Missouri; his sister, Cathy Henton of Emporia; five grandchildren, Sydney and Sloane Sims of Topeka, Cody Montez, Ethan and Bentley Adams of Columbia, Missouri; two great grandchildren, Marlee and Legend.

Jim was a reader. Jim was knowledgeable about most subjects. He had an expert level of knowledge in several. Much of this he would attribute to his love of reading and the voracious nature of such. If Jim could have chosen where and when to live, it would have been in the mid 1800’s in Kansas, on horseback.

Jim became very good friends with the ladies at Trails Regional Library, 813 S. Main Street, Concordia, Missouri 64020. He read nearly every book in the library. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Jim’s name be honored by memorial contributions to the library. Contributions may be mailed in his honor directly to the library or may be left in care of the Chrisitie-Anderes Funeral Home.

Memorial Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at the Afton Trinity Lutheran Church, southwest of Marysville, Kansas with Curtis Melcher officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment with Military Honors will be in the Afton Cemetery. A lunch will follow at the Waterville Community Center.

James (Jim) Edward Livergood, Chief Master Sergeant United States Air Force (retired), age 71, died on July 19, 2022, outdoors, on the land of the home he had built and loved, in Knob Noster, Missouri.Jim was born on November 24, 1950 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Arlo and Patricia (Genschorck) Livergood. Jim grew up and spent his formative years in the Waterville and Manhattan, Kansas area. On September 6, 1969, he married Mary Schultz. They spent the next 53 years together, thirty of those years, traveling the world, in service of the United States Air Force.Jim enlisted in October of 1970, serving with honor and distinction, retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant, (E9). Of note, Jim achieved the rank of E9 in his 18th&nbsp;year of service. He served 30 years at duty stations all over the world. Most of them with Mary and their daughters by his side. Jim served over 12 years of his career as an E9, Chief Master Sergeant, a rare honor.Jim was instrumental in building the B-2 Stealth Bomber maintenance program. He planned and oversaw the delivery of the first B-2 Stealth Bomber to Whiteman Air Force Base. Whiteman Air Force Base was his final duty station. Jim didn’t brag or boast about his military career. However, reading his paperwork after his death, it was clear that although several Generals and politicians were the fathers of the B-2 program, Jim Livergood was its mother. Jim stacked up more military awards and citations than can be recounted. However, the Meritorious Service Medal with 5 Oakleaf Clusters and the Air Force Commendation medal with 2 Oakleaf Clusters were representative.Jim took quite pride knowing that “his” B-2’s, after leaving Whiteman Air Force Base, silently and without notice, could rain down fire and brimstone halfway around the world. To then return safe and sound and be prepared for whatever came next by Jim and his crews.After his retirement, Jim and Mary remained on the land that they had bought at the house that they had built and became grandparents and bison farmers.&nbsp; Jim served as the president of the Missouri Bison Association and spent the next 22 years hunting, fishing, traveling to the national parks and spending time with family and friends. He was devoted to his grandchildren.Jim’s family events and outings were frequent and common. They included not only his immediate family but his nephews, friends, cousins and second cousins. Jim loved his family and was particularly fond of those he had grown up around as a child and teenager.Jim often spent days or weekends traveling to see or be with a family member, especially on Memorial Day or other holidays. He enjoyed the Chiefs, Royals and their games, in person. Always with family.Jim was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Mary Livergood, two daughters, Carisa Sims (Tom Lemon) of Topeka and Angela Livergood of Columbia, Missouri; his sister, Cathy Henton of Emporia; five grandchildren, Sydney and Sloane Sims of Topeka, Cody Montez, Ethan and Bentley Adams of Columbia, Missouri; two great grandchildren, Marlee and Legend.Jim was a reader. Jim was knowledgeable about most subjects. He had an expert level of knowledge in several. Much of this he would attribute to his love of reading and the voracious nature of such. If Jim could have chosen where and when to live, it would have been in the mid 1800’s in Kansas, on horseback.Jim became very good friends with the ladies at Trails Regional Library, 813 S. Main Street, Concordia, Missouri 64020. He read nearly every book in the library. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Jim’s name be honored by memorial contributions to the library. Contributions may be mailed in his honor directly to the library or may be left in care of the Chrisitie-Anderes Funeral Home.Memorial Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at the Afton Trinity Lutheran Church, southwest of Marysville, Kansas with Curtis Melcher officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment with Military Honors will be in the Afton Cemetery. A lunch will follow at the Waterville Community Center.

James (Jim) E. Livergood

Larry Dale (Birddog) Martin, age 70, died July 25, 2022, in Clay Center, KS. He was born in Anthony, KS on December 2, 1951, to Loren H. and Janie Elizabeth (Heckethorn) Martin. Larry grew up on a dairy and wheat farm near Caldwell, KS.

He raised prize winning chickens for his 4-H projects and out cooked the girls in his 4-H cooking class.&nbsp; While on the farm, his favorite pet was his bird dog, Sandy.

Larry attended school in Caldwell and graduated from Caldwell High School in 1970. He also went to junior college in Arkansas City. &nbsp;After a traumatic accident in Arkansas City, he spent several years living in a rehab facility in Kansas City and then moved to Clay Center to be closer to family.&nbsp; While in Clay Center, he worked for Gilmore-Tage and Big Lakes.

Larry also participated in a couple chili cook offs and won.&nbsp; His chili was appropriately name “Dragons Breath”. According to his sister, he made the best chocolate chip cookies but refused to give out his recipe.

He was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother, Donald Martin. Larry is survived by his sisters, Sharon (Paul) Houston of Manhattan, KS, Merrie Martin of Wichita, KS, Joan Martin of Topeka, KS and Loretta (David) Kordyak of Manhattan, KS. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

A time of remembrance will be held at the Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home in Clay Center, KS on Saturday, August 6, 2022, from 9-11 a.m.

The family requests that you bring an item that reminds you of Larry along with its story.

Memorials can be made to CCARE c/o the funeral home

Larry Dale (Birddog) Martin, age 70, died July 25, 2022, in Clay Center, KS. He was born in Anthony, KS on December 2, 1951, to Loren H. and Janie Elizabeth (Heckethorn) Martin. Larry grew up on a dairy and wheat farm near Caldwell, KS.He raised prize winning chickens for his 4-H projects and out cooked the girls in his 4-H cooking class.&nbsp; While on the farm, his favorite pet was his bird dog, Sandy.Larry attended school in Caldwell and graduated from Caldwell High School in 1970. He also went to junior college in Arkansas City. &nbsp;After a traumatic accident in Arkansas City, he spent several years living in a rehab facility in Kansas City and then moved to Clay Center to be closer to family.&nbsp; While in Clay Center, he worked for Gilmore-Tage and Big Lakes.Larry also participated in a couple chili cook offs and won.&nbsp; His chili was appropriately name “Dragons Breath”. According to his sister, he made the best chocolate chip cookies but refused to give out his recipe.He was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother, Donald Martin. Larry is survived by his sisters, Sharon (Paul) Houston of Manhattan, KS, Merrie Martin of Wichita, KS, Joan Martin of Topeka, KS and Loretta (David) Kordyak of Manhattan, KS. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.A time of remembrance will be held at the Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home in Clay Center, KS on Saturday, August 6, 2022, from 9-11 a.m.The family requests that you bring an item that reminds you of Larry along with its story.Memorials can be made to CCARE c/o the funeral home

Larry Dale (Birddog) Martin

Jack Bolding, age 92, passed away Tuesday, July 19, 2022, at Josie Harper Hospice House in Omaha, Nebraska. Jack was born April 15, 1930, in Checotah, Oklahoma, the son of Benjamin and Laura Bolding, and had eight siblings. He grew up in Checotah, and entered the United States Army in 1946. He served for 21 years, and retired to Manhattan, Kansas. The family has fond memories of his numerous Army stories, and you can imagine that 21 years provided a lot of stories to share with family and friends. Jack loved his 52 years in Manhattan, where he raised his family. He moved to Omaha, NE, in 2019, where he resided at Rolling Hills Ranch enjoying his new friendships, Jack was loved by all and will be greatly missed. On May 6, 1951, in Frankfort, Kansas, he was married to Delores Louise “Dee” Anderson. Dee preceded him in death on May 15, 2017. He was also preceded by his parents and numerous brothers and sisters. Survivors include his children: Jacque Switlik (Raymond) and Jay Bolding (Lucinda); six grandchildren: Melanie Switlik, Jason Switlik (Lauren), Jonathan Switlik (Melanie), Dr. Jared Bolding (Michaela), Hunter Bolding (Christina), and McKenzie Bolding; and seven great grandchildren: Madison Switlik, Jackson Bolding, Cooper Bolding, Sophia Bolding, Hudson Bolding, Margaret Bolding and Olivia Marshall. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, August 15th, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church with Father Frank Coady as Celebrant. Private inurnment will be in the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan. Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 28, 2151 West 32nd Avenue, Manhattan. KS 66502, or may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Jack Bolding, age 92, passed away Tuesday, July 19, 2022, at Josie Harper Hospice House in Omaha, Nebraska. Jack was born April 15, 1930, in Checotah, Oklahoma, the son of Benjamin and Laura Bolding, and had eight siblings. He grew up in Checotah, and entered the United States Army in 1946. He served for 21 years, and retired to Manhattan, Kansas. The family has fond memories of his numerous Army stories, and you can imagine that 21 years provided a lot of stories to share with family and friends. Jack loved his 52 years in Manhattan, where he raised his family. He moved to Omaha, NE, in 2019, where he resided at Rolling Hills Ranch enjoying his new friendships, Jack was loved by all and will be greatly missed. On May 6, 1951, in Frankfort, Kansas, he was married to Delores Louise “Dee” Anderson. Dee preceded him in death on May 15, 2017. He was also preceded by his parents and numerous brothers and sisters. Survivors include his children: Jacque Switlik (Raymond) and Jay Bolding (Lucinda); six grandchildren: Melanie Switlik, Jason Switlik (Lauren), Jonathan Switlik (Melanie), Dr. Jared Bolding (Michaela), Hunter Bolding (Christina), and McKenzie Bolding; and seven great grandchildren: Madison Switlik, Jackson Bolding, Cooper Bolding, Sophia Bolding, Hudson Bolding, Margaret Bolding and Olivia Marshall. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, August 15th, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church with Father Frank Coady as Celebrant. Private inurnment will be in the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan. Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 28, 2151 West 32nd Avenue, Manhattan. KS 66502, or may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Jack Bolding

Angie Post, 87 of Manhattan, Kansas passed away at the Home of the Flint Hills on Tuesday, July 19, 2022. Angie and Art moved to Manhattan in 1955 following 2 years in the Army at Fort Riley, Kansas. Angie and Art raised their 4 kids in Manhattan. The family found Manhattan and the Seven Dolors Parish to be a welcoming home and had the greatest friends they could have hoped for. Born May 6, 1935 in Park, Kansas to Nick and Josie Wittman. Angie attended Park High School graduating in 1953 and attended Marymount College graduating from the Marymount School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse in 1956. Angie and Art met in Salina and were married at Sacred Heart Cathedral at Salina on August 31, 1957. Angie is survived by Greg (Nancy) of Greenwood Village, Colorado, Steve (Melissa) of Southlake, Texas, Nancy (Howard) of Parker, Colorado. Her daughter Amy (Brad) of Manhattan, Kansas is deceased. Angie and Art are blessed with four grandsons, ten granddaughters, and three great grandsons. Angie was very proud of them all and they all looked up to her. Angie spent her career as a Nurse. She worked as a Registered Nurse at Saint Mary’s Hospital and at Lafene Health Center at Kansas State University. She also served as a school nurse for the USD 383 Manhattan public school system. Angie enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. They spent many weekends skiing and camping at Tuttle Creek. She enjoyed playing cards and pitch was her favorite family game and bridge was her favorite game to play with friends. Christmas was her favorite time of year. Her whole family would come back to Manhattan most years to spend the holiday together. She was a great role model for prioritizing her family over everything else. Amy later coined the term “Family First” that the whole family embraced. Angie was the oldest of three children; Melvin Wittman of Park, Kansas (deceased), Gordon Wittman of Manhattan, Kansas (deceased). Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan on Saturday, August 6th, at 10:00 a.m.&nbsp; The viewing will begin at 9:00 a.m. &nbsp; Internment follows the Mass at Sunrise Cemetery and then lunch at Seven Dolors Grade School. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in memory of Mrs. Post are suggested to the Manhattan Catholic Schools. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502. The funeral will be streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/YML.FuneralHome/. It will also be available after the funeral at this site.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Angie Post, 87 of Manhattan, Kansas passed away at the Home of the Flint Hills on Tuesday, July 19, 2022. Angie and Art moved to Manhattan in 1955 following 2 years in the Army at Fort Riley, Kansas. Angie and Art raised their 4 kids in Manhattan. The family found Manhattan and the Seven Dolors Parish to be a welcoming home and had the greatest friends they could have hoped for. Born May 6, 1935 in Park, Kansas to Nick and Josie Wittman. Angie attended Park High School graduating in 1953 and attended Marymount College graduating from the Marymount School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse in 1956. Angie and Art met in Salina and were married at Sacred Heart Cathedral at Salina on August 31, 1957. Angie is survived by Greg (Nancy) of Greenwood Village, Colorado, Steve (Melissa) of Southlake, Texas, Nancy (Howard) of Parker, Colorado. Her daughter Amy (Brad) of Manhattan, Kansas is deceased. Angie and Art are blessed with four grandsons, ten granddaughters, and three great grandsons. Angie was very proud of them all and they all looked up to her. Angie spent her career as a Nurse. She worked as a Registered Nurse at Saint Mary’s Hospital and at Lafene Health Center at Kansas State University. She also served as a school nurse for the USD 383 Manhattan public school system. Angie enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. They spent many weekends skiing and camping at Tuttle Creek. She enjoyed playing cards and pitch was her favorite family game and bridge was her favorite game to play with friends. Christmas was her favorite time of year. Her whole family would come back to Manhattan most years to spend the holiday together. She was a great role model for prioritizing her family over everything else. Amy later coined the term “Family First” that the whole family embraced. Angie was the oldest of three children; Melvin Wittman of Park, Kansas (deceased), Gordon Wittman of Manhattan, Kansas (deceased). Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan on Saturday, August 6th, at 10:00 a.m.&nbsp; The viewing will begin at 9:00 a.m. &nbsp; Internment follows the Mass at Sunrise Cemetery and then lunch at Seven Dolors Grade School. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in memory of Mrs. Post are suggested to the Manhattan Catholic Schools. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502. The funeral will be streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/YML.FuneralHome/. It will also be available after the funeral at this site.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Angie Post

Earl Leslie “Rusty” Russell III of Gainesville, TX, passed away Wednesday, July 20, 2022.&nbsp; He was 78.

Born January 25, 1944, at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Rusty was a man of 
many talents, interests, and pursuits. Most importantly, he was a loving
 husband, father, brother and uncle, and a man of faith.

Rusty was, at his core, a deeply patriotic person, the quintessential
 US Army man.&nbsp; He began his military career in middle school in the 
Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and continued to serve in 
ROTC throughout his high school and college years.&nbsp; In September 1966, 
upon graduation from Fort Hays State University, Kansas (BA in Political
 Science), Rusty received his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the 
US Army. Soon afterwards, Rusty attended the Army Aviation Center and 
School at Fort Rucker, Alabama, where he earned his pilot wings.&nbsp; He 
served two tours in Viet Nam (1967-68 and again in 1971-72) where he 
flew reconnaissance missions and aligned artillery.&nbsp;

During these intense combat tours Rusty earned the following military honors:

Distinguished Flying Cross with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star, Army
 Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Meritorious Unit 
Citation, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 7 
Bronze Service Stars, Cross of Gallantry W/Silver Star (2 Awards), 
Vietnam Campaign Medal with Palm. In 1975, having attained the rank of 
Major, Rusty was honorably discharged from the US Army.

It was in 1963—on a blind date—Rusty met the one and only true love 
of his life: &nbsp;Jan. He knew the moment he saw her descending the stairs 
at Miller Scholarship Hall that she was the woman for him, and he wanted
 to build a life with her.&nbsp; Rusty and Jan were married November 19, 
1966, and shared a love of travel, family, friends, and their only 
child, Lee.

Following his military career, Rusty and Jan opened a real estate 
firm, Hallmark Homes, in Manhattan, Kansas. In 1982, the opportunity 
arose to join Edward Jones as a Financial Advisor.&nbsp; Without a backup 
plan, Rusty and Jan decided to move their family to Gainesville, Texas, 
to start a new adventure.&nbsp; Throughout his quarter-century career with 
Edward Jones, Rusty was valued as a trusted advisor, educator, discreet 
confidante, and wise mentor.

Rusty was civic minded and generous with both his time and financial 
blessings. He served his community by participating on many boards 
including the Gainesville Municipal Airport Board, the North Texas 
Medical Center Board, the First United Methodist Church Board, the State
 Bar of Texas Ethics Committee Board, and on the Longhorn Council. Rusty
 was also an active member of the Gainesville Masonic Lodge #210 and 
served as a Past Master.

A lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America, Rusty earned the 
rank of Eagle Scout and later in life, the Order of the Arrow's Vigil 
Honor. Rusty served as leader of Gainesville's Troop 668 for many years,
 mentoring new generations of Scouts. He lived his life according to 
Scout Law, to be: &nbsp;Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, 
Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent.

Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, Colonel Earl L. Russell, 
Jr. USA (Ret.) and Laura Margaret E. Russell, and his brother-in-law, 
Brian Charles Klusener.

Survivors include his wife, Janice Kay “Jan” Russell of Gainesville; 
son, Earl Leslie “Lee” Russell, IV of Gainesville, Texas; brother and 
sister-in-law, Robert and Pam Russell of Manhattan, Kansas; sister and 
brother-in-law, Jane and Brad McMurray of Plant City, Florida; 
brother-in-law, John Klusener of Topeka, Kansas; sister-in-law, Laura 
Klusener of Pittsburg, Kansas; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and 
cousins.

Inurnment at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Veterans Cemetery will be held Friday, August 19, at 11:15 AM.

The memorial service with military honors is scheduled for Saturday, 
August 20, at 10:00 AM at First United Methodist Church of Gainesville. 
Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to some of Rusty’s 
favorite organizations below. Such memorial contributions would be 
greatly appreciated.

Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children <a href="http://www.scottishriteforchildren.org">www.scottishriteforchildren.org</a>,

The Boys &amp; Girls Club of Cooke County&nbsp; <a href="https://bgccooke.com/donate">https://bgccooke.com/donate</a>

Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter <a href="http://www.noahsarktx.com/donate">www.noahsarktx.com/donate</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659024052992.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Earl Leslie “Rusty” Russell III of Gainesville, TX, passed away Wednesday, July 20, 2022.&nbsp; He was 78.Born January 25, 1944, at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Rusty was a man of 
many talents, interests, and pursuits. Most importantly, he was a loving
 husband, father, brother and uncle, and a man of faith.Rusty was, at his core, a deeply patriotic person, the quintessential
 US Army man.&nbsp; He began his military career in middle school in the 
Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and continued to serve in 
ROTC throughout his high school and college years.&nbsp; In September 1966, 
upon graduation from Fort Hays State University, Kansas (BA in Political
 Science), Rusty received his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the 
US Army. Soon afterwards, Rusty attended the Army Aviation Center and 
School at Fort Rucker, Alabama, where he earned his pilot wings.&nbsp; He 
served two tours in Viet Nam (1967-68 and again in 1971-72) where he 
flew reconnaissance missions and aligned artillery.&nbsp;During these intense combat tours Rusty earned the following military honors:Distinguished Flying Cross with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star, Army
 Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Meritorious Unit 
Citation, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 7 
Bronze Service Stars, Cross of Gallantry W/Silver Star (2 Awards), 
Vietnam Campaign Medal with Palm. In 1975, having attained the rank of 
Major, Rusty was honorably discharged from the US Army.It was in 1963—on a blind date—Rusty met the one and only true love 
of his life: &nbsp;Jan. He knew the moment he saw her descending the stairs 
at Miller Scholarship Hall that she was the woman for him, and he wanted
 to build a life with her.&nbsp; Rusty and Jan were married November 19, 
1966, and shared a love of travel, family, friends, and their only 
child, Lee.Following his military career, Rusty and Jan opened a real estate 
firm, Hallmark Homes, in Manhattan, Kansas. In 1982, the opportunity 
arose to join Edward Jones as a Financial Advisor.&nbsp; Without a backup 
plan, Rusty and Jan decided to move their family to Gainesville, Texas, 
to start a new adventure.&nbsp; Throughout his quarter-century career with 
Edward Jones, Rusty was valued as a trusted advisor, educator, discreet 
confidante, and wise mentor.Rusty was civic minded and generous with both his time and financial 
blessings. He served his community by participating on many boards 
including the Gainesville Municipal Airport Board, the North Texas 
Medical Center Board, the First United Methodist Church Board, the State
 Bar of Texas Ethics Committee Board, and on the Longhorn Council. Rusty
 was also an active member of the Gainesville Masonic Lodge #210 and 
served as a Past Master.A lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America, Rusty earned the 
rank of Eagle Scout and later in life, the Order of the Arrow's Vigil 
Honor. Rusty served as leader of Gainesville's Troop 668 for many years,
 mentoring new generations of Scouts. He lived his life according to 
Scout Law, to be: &nbsp;Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, 
Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent.Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, Colonel Earl L. Russell, 
Jr. USA (Ret.) and Laura Margaret E. Russell, and his brother-in-law, 
Brian Charles Klusener.Survivors include his wife, Janice Kay “Jan” Russell of Gainesville; 
son, Earl Leslie “Lee” Russell, IV of Gainesville, Texas; brother and 
sister-in-law, Robert and Pam Russell of Manhattan, Kansas; sister and 
brother-in-law, Jane and Brad McMurray of Plant City, Florida; 
brother-in-law, John Klusener of Topeka, Kansas; sister-in-law, Laura 
Klusener of Pittsburg, Kansas; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and 
cousins.Inurnment at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Veterans Cemetery will be held Friday, August 19, at 11:15 AM.The memorial service with military honors is scheduled for Saturday, 
August 20, at 10:00 AM at First United Methodist Church of Gainesville. 
Reception to follow.In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to some of Rusty’s 
favorite organizations below. Such memorial contributions would be 
greatly appreciated.Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children <a href="http://www.scottishriteforchildren.org">www.scottishriteforchildren.org</a>,The Boys &amp; Girls Club of Cooke County&nbsp; <a href="https://bgccooke.com/donate">https://bgccooke.com/donate</a>Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter <a href="http://www.noahsarktx.com/donate">www.noahsarktx.com/donate</a>

Earl Leslie 'Rusty' Russell III

Zadie Mae Floberg, age 96 of Manhattan, passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2022 at the Stoneybrook Assisted Living Facility.

She was born on February 19, 1926 in Riley, the daughter of Michael and Mable (Carter) Phalen.&nbsp; She grew up and attended Riley schools.

She married John Q. Huff in 1942.&nbsp; They later divorced.

On November 26, 1965 she married Wayne Floberg.&nbsp; He preceded her in death in 1997.

Zadie worked in the Riley County Treasurers Office for 25 years.&nbsp; She was a member of the First United Methodist Church and was a member of a bowling league in Manhattan.

She is survived by three children, John R. Huff and wife Jane of Riley, Kansas, Diana Smith and husband Stan of Red Oak, Iowa and Denise Harris and husband Ed of New Cambria, Kansas; three step children, Roland Floberg and wife Cheryl of Denver, Colorado, Dean Floberg and wife Jill of Denver, Colorado and Randy Floberg of Topeka, Kansas, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband Wayne, she was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Robert Phalen; one sister, Betty Bryson; one step daughter, Barb Davis, and Deni, her beloved Bichon.

Cremation is planned with a private family inurnment in the Riley Cemetery.&nbsp; The Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

A memorial has been established for the T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter.&nbsp; Memorial contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Zadie Mae Floberg, age 96 of Manhattan, passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2022 at the Stoneybrook Assisted Living Facility.She was born on February 19, 1926 in Riley, the daughter of Michael and Mable (Carter) Phalen.&nbsp; She grew up and attended Riley schools.She married John Q. Huff in 1942.&nbsp; They later divorced.On November 26, 1965 she married Wayne Floberg.&nbsp; He preceded her in death in 1997.Zadie worked in the Riley County Treasurers Office for 25 years.&nbsp; She was a member of the First United Methodist Church and was a member of a bowling league in Manhattan.She is survived by three children, John R. Huff and wife Jane of Riley, Kansas, Diana Smith and husband Stan of Red Oak, Iowa and Denise Harris and husband Ed of New Cambria, Kansas; three step children, Roland Floberg and wife Cheryl of Denver, Colorado, Dean Floberg and wife Jill of Denver, Colorado and Randy Floberg of Topeka, Kansas, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.In addition to her husband Wayne, she was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Robert Phalen; one sister, Betty Bryson; one step daughter, Barb Davis, and Deni, her beloved Bichon.Cremation is planned with a private family inurnment in the Riley Cemetery.&nbsp; The Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.A memorial has been established for the T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter.&nbsp; Memorial contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Zadie Mae Floberg

Jerry Lee Hedke, age 84 of Waterville, passed away on Monday, July 25, 2022 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan.

He was born on January 1, 1938, to Fred and Selma (Blaske) Hedke at his parent’s home south of Waterville. He attended Cottage Hill Grade School and graduated from Waterville High School in 1956. After graduation he worked for Lamoreaux Construction building grain bins and started farming. On January 25, 1959, he married Beverly Sawin at the Waterville United Methodist Church. They were married 63 years. They moved to their farm south of Waterville in 1960 where they raised their children Scott and Kaye Lynn.

Jerry farmed all of his life, ran the custom harvesting route from Texas thru North Dakota from 1958 to 1988. He owned and operated Triple 888 Dozer Service with Don Kotapish and later Hedke Dozer Service doing conservation work but demolished numerous houses and old buildings in Waterville. Jerry helped build the ball diamond in Waterville. He sold insurance for several years and had a security license. He also was a school bus driver.

Jerry’s saying was that he was going to do things while he was young because he would not be able to do them with a social security check in his pocket. So, consequently, he got involved in tractor pulling and he and Francis Arganbright ran the Kansas Tractor Pullers and National Tractor Pullers circuit competing in pulls at Denver, Houston, San Antonio, Indianapolis and Louisville and many state fairs. He was on bowling teams, took flying lessons, golfing in the Bahamas and Mississippi (never did much golfing locally), fishing trips to Canada (not much fishing locally), skiing in Colorado and went to Washington D.C. with the farm strike.

Jerry was a Mason and a member of Sutton Lodge for 63 years, was a 32nd degree Mason, Shriner, and Scottish Rite. He served on the Waterville Farmers Coop Board, UMC Board of Trustees, Young Farmers, Marshall Co. Farm Bureau and Cottage Hill Township Trustee.

Preceding him in death were his parents; one brother, Jack Hedke in WWII and two sisters, Louise Blaser and Victoria Scheller.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Hedke; one son, Scott (Deb) Hedke; one daughter, Kaye Lynn (Francis) Kroeger; his grandchildren, Leigha (Kyle) Behrens, Erin (Landon) Wright, Alyssa (Blake) Torfin, Courtney Kroeger and friend Jon Frink, and Bryce (Kate) Hedke. He also has nine great grandsons, Jacob, Mason, and Ethan Behrens, Tycen and Cohen Wright, Corbin and Briggs Torfin, Jackson Kroeger-Gehring, Jack Hedke, and three step great granddaughters, Bella, Charley, and Layla Lott.

Viewing is from noon until 8:00 p.m. Friday, with visitation between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. at the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home in Waterville.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 30, 2022 at the Waterville United Methodist Church with Pastor Berniece Ludlum officiating. Burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Meadowlark Hospice or Shriners Children’s Hospital. Contributions may be left in care of the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home, P.O. Box 61, Waterville, KS 66548.

Jerry Lee Hedke, age 84 of Waterville, passed away on Monday, July 25, 2022 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan. He was born on January 1, 1938, to Fred and Selma (Blaske) Hedke at his parent’s home south of Waterville. He attended Cottage Hill Grade School and graduated from Waterville High School in 1956. After graduation he worked for Lamoreaux Construction building grain bins and started farming. On January 25, 1959, he married Beverly Sawin at the Waterville United Methodist Church. They were married 63 years. They moved to their farm south of Waterville in 1960 where they raised their children Scott and Kaye Lynn. Jerry farmed all of his life, ran the custom harvesting route from Texas thru North Dakota from 1958 to 1988. He owned and operated Triple 888 Dozer Service with Don Kotapish and later Hedke Dozer Service doing conservation work but demolished numerous houses and old buildings in Waterville. Jerry helped build the ball diamond in Waterville. He sold insurance for several years and had a security license. He also was a school bus driver. Jerry’s saying was that he was going to do things while he was young because he would not be able to do them with a social security check in his pocket. So, consequently, he got involved in tractor pulling and he and Francis Arganbright ran the Kansas Tractor Pullers and National Tractor Pullers circuit competing in pulls at Denver, Houston, San Antonio, Indianapolis and Louisville and many state fairs. He was on bowling teams, took flying lessons, golfing in the Bahamas and Mississippi (never did much golfing locally), fishing trips to Canada (not much fishing locally), skiing in Colorado and went to Washington D.C. with the farm strike. Jerry was a Mason and a member of Sutton Lodge for 63 years, was a 32nd degree Mason, Shriner, and Scottish Rite. He served on the Waterville Farmers Coop Board, UMC Board of Trustees, Young Farmers, Marshall Co. Farm Bureau and Cottage Hill Township Trustee. Preceding him in death were his parents; one brother, Jack Hedke in WWII and two sisters, Louise Blaser and Victoria Scheller. He is survived by his wife, Beverly Hedke; one son, Scott (Deb) Hedke; one daughter, Kaye Lynn (Francis) Kroeger; his grandchildren, Leigha (Kyle) Behrens, Erin (Landon) Wright, Alyssa (Blake) Torfin, Courtney Kroeger and friend Jon Frink, and Bryce (Kate) Hedke. He also has nine great grandsons, Jacob, Mason, and Ethan Behrens, Tycen and Cohen Wright, Corbin and Briggs Torfin, Jackson Kroeger-Gehring, Jack Hedke, and three step great granddaughters, Bella, Charley, and Layla Lott. Viewing is from noon until 8:00 p.m. Friday, with visitation between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. at the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home in Waterville. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 30, 2022 at the Waterville United Methodist Church with Pastor Berniece Ludlum officiating. Burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery.Memorials may be made to Meadowlark Hospice or Shriners Children’s Hospital. Contributions may be left in care of the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home, P.O. Box 61, Waterville, KS 66548.

Jerry Lee Hedke

Mitchell “Mitch” James Bryant, 54 of rural Hope passed away Monday, July 25, 2022. He was born December 18, 1967 in Herington, Kansas the son of Phil and Jo Lynne “Jody” (Riffel) Bryant. Mitch grew up in the Hope area, graduated from Hope High School in 1986 and then went on to Salina Vo-Tech. He spent his career as a custom carpenter. He enjoyed rodeoing, grilling and the outdoors. He enjoyed teaching his family his craft and spending quality time with them. He was passionate about woodworking especially teaching his kids, as well as hauling his kids to many rodeos. 

Mitch is survived by his children: Chelsea (Ian) Deges of Ensign, Kansas; Shelby (Trenton) Turner along with baby Turner(Arriving August 2022); Kylie Bryant; and Brody Bryant all of Hope, Kansas. His father, Phil (Chris) Bryant of Corpus Christi, Texas; brother: Cary (Beth) Bryant of Hope, Kansas. Niece, Kristy (Jamie) Stover of Abilene and their children MaKenna, Klovis and Tripp and two nephews, Ty Bryant of Abilene and Gus Bryant of Hope. One cousin, Roberta (Blake) Elliot of Hope and aunts, Clarice Shumaker of Kansas City, Kansas and Jan(Ed) Farry of Florida. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jody and grandparents, Clarence and Ann Bryant and Harvey and Ruth Riffel.

 A Memorial Service for Mitch will be 3:00 p .m., Saturday, July 30, 2022 at the Hope Annex &amp; Community Center (124 North Main, Hope, Kansas 67451). Family will receive friends Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home in Abilene. The family suggests memorials be given to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation or to the Mitch Bryant Memorial Fund. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third ST., Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Mitchell “Mitch” James Bryant, 54 of rural Hope passed away Monday, July 25, 2022. He was born December 18, 1967 in Herington, Kansas the son of Phil and Jo Lynne “Jody” (Riffel) Bryant. Mitch grew up in the Hope area, graduated from Hope High School in 1986 and then went on to Salina Vo-Tech. He spent his career as a custom carpenter. He enjoyed rodeoing, grilling and the outdoors. He enjoyed teaching his family his craft and spending quality time with them. He was passionate about woodworking especially teaching his kids, as well as hauling his kids to many rodeos. Mitch is survived by his children: Chelsea (Ian) Deges of Ensign, Kansas; Shelby (Trenton) Turner along with baby Turner(Arriving August 2022); Kylie Bryant; and Brody Bryant all of Hope, Kansas. His father, Phil (Chris) Bryant of Corpus Christi, Texas; brother: Cary (Beth) Bryant of Hope, Kansas. Niece, Kristy (Jamie) Stover of Abilene and their children MaKenna, Klovis and Tripp and two nephews, Ty Bryant of Abilene and Gus Bryant of Hope. One cousin, Roberta (Blake) Elliot of Hope and aunts, Clarice Shumaker of Kansas City, Kansas and Jan(Ed) Farry of Florida. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jody and grandparents, Clarence and Ann Bryant and Harvey and Ruth Riffel. A Memorial Service for Mitch will be 3:00 p .m., Saturday, July 30, 2022 at the Hope Annex &amp; Community Center (124 North Main, Hope, Kansas 67451). Family will receive friends Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home in Abilene. The family suggests memorials be given to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation or to the Mitch Bryant Memorial Fund. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third ST., Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Mitchell “Mitch” James Bryant

Marlene Janet Insley (Rider), 92, of Junction City, Kansas passed away on Wednesday, July 20th, 2022 at Brookdale Senior Living in Junction City, Kansas. She was born November 26th, 1929 in Topeka, Kansas. Daughter of Alvin and Thelma L (Martin) Rider. Marlene grew up in the Topeka area and graduated from Highland Park High School. She married Paul (Don) Robert Insley on January 22nd, 1953. Her brother Galen was her best friend, protector, and their close relationship was something to be envious of. She shared many fond memories of their adventures together and how much joy her nieces and nephew brought her. She met her husband Paul through her best friend Mary. They were married 34 joyful years before he passed. She worked for various businesses doing accounting in Junction City. Prior to getting married she spent a year in Alaska and the photographic proof shows she lived her best life. Marlene and Paul traveled a lot and after his passing she continued to travel. Visiting all 50 states at least once and several countries. She had two beautiful children during their marriage, Kathy Hildebrand and Matthew Insley. Matthew passed unexpectedly in November 1980. Her children were her everything. Marlene volunteered in many capacities in the Junction City area. She was also a member of many organized groups. She was an avid seamstress, and her grandchildren have the matching outfits to prove it. She also had a passion for knitting and crochet. If you knew her, you probably have a handmade washcloth or two. Marlene and her daughter were very close, and she was very active in her grandchildren’s lives. Kathy will miss just being able to talk to her mom and the way she would ask about the day-to-day goings on and her mom’s ability to simply listen. As her grandson loved to tease her about, what she lacked in height she made up for in heart. She loved her family with all her being. When asked by her granddaughter what advice she would give, she said to love your family. Nothing is more important than your family. During all their vacations, Paul and Marlene always made time to visit family. Kelly, her great granddaughter, fondly remembers all the fun times she had with Grammi during holidays, birthdays, and family time. Making lemon bars, always running out of gas, back scratches, many holiday gatherings, Shirley Temple movies, canning, gardening, cooking for the farmers, grandma’s house sleepovers, square dancing, family time, line dancing, trips with her two grandchildren, and musicals, are just a few of the fond memories her family, friends, and loved ones will carry with them. Marlene was the epitome of a woman walking in faith. Jesus was the center of her life and we always admired her quiet way of showing her faith to everyone she met. She never quoted scripture to others, she simply lived it daily with her endless generosity and love. She attended the Episcopal church and the Lutheran Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, brother and sister-in law Dar, husband, son, grandson-in-law Phillip Glasgow, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She is survived by her daughter Kathrine Hildebrand and husband David, Grandchildren Julie Hildebrand-Glasgow, Tod Hildebrand, and Great Granddaughter Kelly Glasgow all of Junction City, Nieces (Janet, Ileen, Christy), Nephew (Tony), and many other family and friends. Visitation will be on Sunday, July 31st, 5:30-7:30 P.M.. The Memorial Service is on Monday, August 1st at 10:00 A.M. with Pastor Sarah Becker officiating. Both services will be at Junction City Church of the Nazarene. Memorial services will be 10:00 am, Monday, August 1, 2022 at the Junction City Church of the Nazarene. Visitation will be 5:30 pm -7:30 pm Sunday July 31st at the church. Memorial contributions can be made to Great Granddaughter Kelly Glasgow’s educational fund (at Marlene’s request) or for a memorial in her memory at the senior citizen center. They can be dropped off on the day of service or mailed to Kathy Hildebrand 5210 W. Rucker Rd Junction City, KS 66441.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Marlene Janet Insley (Rider), 92, of Junction City, Kansas passed away on Wednesday, July 20th, 2022 at Brookdale Senior Living in Junction City, Kansas. She was born November 26th, 1929 in Topeka, Kansas. Daughter of Alvin and Thelma L (Martin) Rider. Marlene grew up in the Topeka area and graduated from Highland Park High School. She married Paul (Don) Robert Insley on January 22nd, 1953. Her brother Galen was her best friend, protector, and their close relationship was something to be envious of. She shared many fond memories of their adventures together and how much joy her nieces and nephew brought her. She met her husband Paul through her best friend Mary. They were married 34 joyful years before he passed. She worked for various businesses doing accounting in Junction City. Prior to getting married she spent a year in Alaska and the photographic proof shows she lived her best life. Marlene and Paul traveled a lot and after his passing she continued to travel. Visiting all 50 states at least once and several countries. She had two beautiful children during their marriage, Kathy Hildebrand and Matthew Insley. Matthew passed unexpectedly in November 1980. Her children were her everything. Marlene volunteered in many capacities in the Junction City area. She was also a member of many organized groups. She was an avid seamstress, and her grandchildren have the matching outfits to prove it. She also had a passion for knitting and crochet. If you knew her, you probably have a handmade washcloth or two. Marlene and her daughter were very close, and she was very active in her grandchildren’s lives. Kathy will miss just being able to talk to her mom and the way she would ask about the day-to-day goings on and her mom’s ability to simply listen. As her grandson loved to tease her about, what she lacked in height she made up for in heart. She loved her family with all her being. When asked by her granddaughter what advice she would give, she said to love your family. Nothing is more important than your family. During all their vacations, Paul and Marlene always made time to visit family. Kelly, her great granddaughter, fondly remembers all the fun times she had with Grammi during holidays, birthdays, and family time. Making lemon bars, always running out of gas, back scratches, many holiday gatherings, Shirley Temple movies, canning, gardening, cooking for the farmers, grandma’s house sleepovers, square dancing, family time, line dancing, trips with her two grandchildren, and musicals, are just a few of the fond memories her family, friends, and loved ones will carry with them. Marlene was the epitome of a woman walking in faith. Jesus was the center of her life and we always admired her quiet way of showing her faith to everyone she met. She never quoted scripture to others, she simply lived it daily with her endless generosity and love. She attended the Episcopal church and the Lutheran Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, brother and sister-in law Dar, husband, son, grandson-in-law Phillip Glasgow, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She is survived by her daughter Kathrine Hildebrand and husband David, Grandchildren Julie Hildebrand-Glasgow, Tod Hildebrand, and Great Granddaughter Kelly Glasgow all of Junction City, Nieces (Janet, Ileen, Christy), Nephew (Tony), and many other family and friends. Visitation will be on Sunday, July 31st, 5:30-7:30 P.M.. The Memorial Service is on Monday, August 1st at 10:00 A.M. with Pastor Sarah Becker officiating. Both services will be at Junction City Church of the Nazarene. Memorial services will be 10:00 am, Monday, August 1, 2022 at the Junction City Church of the Nazarene. Visitation will be 5:30 pm -7:30 pm Sunday July 31st at the church. Memorial contributions can be made to Great Granddaughter Kelly Glasgow’s educational fund (at Marlene’s request) or for a memorial in her memory at the senior citizen center. They can be dropped off on the day of service or mailed to Kathy Hildebrand 5210 W. Rucker Rd Junction City, KS 66441.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Marlene Janet Insley 

Her mind was sharp and her will to live was strong, but her body was tired. Edna Lorine (Hoft) Williams passed on Sunday, July 17, 2022. She would have turned 93 on September 15th, telling us more stories from her life and the lives of the many people surrounding her.

We enjoyed the tales of her growing up on a farm near Wheaton KS, the child of German immigrants. At a tender age, she lost her mother and sister to Tuberculosis, and was raised by her German-speaking grandparents. As the only German-speaking student, she learned English quickly. During her school years, she excelled in 4-H, winning many awards including a national award trip to Chicago. After high school she attended Brown Mackie in Salina, and was formally trained in bookkeeping. Upon graduation, she went to work at Westmoreland Bank, where she met the handsome Alvin Williams. They were married in August 1952 and moved to Manhattan where Alvin had a business. Shortly after getting married, she came down with tuberculosis and spent several months recovering in the Norton sanitarium. As Deak grew his appliance repair business and later purchased Fremont Laundromat, Edna kept books for the businesses and was a stay-at-home mom to three children. It was only after all us children left home, that she embarked on her own career.

Edna's stories were great because of her fantastic memory. A favorite was her recalling the exact place purchased, price paid, and drama ensued for any of the many antiques that she and dad collected by the barn full over the decades. Growing up, we assumed the point of all this was to open a museum or antique store. In reality, Edna’s wealth of knowledge about all things Victorian garnered her the position of curator, working for the Riley County Historical Society for 32 years. She loved transforming the wayward Wolf House on Fremont Street into the gorgeous, time capsule of early 1900’s life that it is today. Her many fundraising efforts and publicized seasonal displays, made the Wolf House a known, and treasured, local historical attraction. Her real passion was educating everyone about the customs and practices of bygone eras. She’s started the annual tours for 4th graders, who still today get to wring out laundry and make soap. Another of her projects was the Historic Home Tours in Manhattan.

We children have been very blessed to grow up in this family, and honor the life lessons learned. Old wood furniture should never be painted, refinish it. Marvel at the craftsmanship of old, from an ironsmith who pounded hot metal into a tool, to the delicate and tedious embellishments of antique linens as common handy work for wives and maidens. Be glad you don’t have to use an outhouse and pump your own water, or ride to school in a horse and buggy. And most of all, appreciate what you have and pay it forward however you can.

Edna is survived by: daughter Kay Elizabeth; son Vincent Richard and wife Linda, with two children, Emily Louise and Ian Marshall; grandson Daniel Xavier and wife Mindy, with daughter Tenley Nicole; granddaughter Katelyn and husband Simon Kadzevski, with daughter Alice Ender and son Oliver Stuart.&nbsp; Her husband Alvin (Deak) passed in 2016, and son Stuart Charles in 2012.

On Friday, July 29th at 9 am there will be a gathering in the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, at 1616 Poyntz Ave in Manhattan. The service starts at 9:30, followed by a short graveside service at the Ashland Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest next to the love of her life. All are welcome. If you desire to give, please make donations to the Wolfe House Museum fund, or go visit if you haven’t yet had the pleasure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Her mind was sharp and her will to live was strong, but her body was tired. Edna Lorine (Hoft) Williams passed on Sunday, July 17, 2022. She would have turned 93 on September 15th, telling us more stories from her life and the lives of the many people surrounding her. We enjoyed the tales of her growing up on a farm near Wheaton KS, the child of German immigrants. At a tender age, she lost her mother and sister to Tuberculosis, and was raised by her German-speaking grandparents. As the only German-speaking student, she learned English quickly. During her school years, she excelled in 4-H, winning many awards including a national award trip to Chicago. After high school she attended Brown Mackie in Salina, and was formally trained in bookkeeping. Upon graduation, she went to work at Westmoreland Bank, where she met the handsome Alvin Williams. They were married in August 1952 and moved to Manhattan where Alvin had a business. Shortly after getting married, she came down with tuberculosis and spent several months recovering in the Norton sanitarium. As Deak grew his appliance repair business and later purchased Fremont Laundromat, Edna kept books for the businesses and was a stay-at-home mom to three children. It was only after all us children left home, that she embarked on her own career. Edna's stories were great because of her fantastic memory. A favorite was her recalling the exact place purchased, price paid, and drama ensued for any of the many antiques that she and dad collected by the barn full over the decades. Growing up, we assumed the point of all this was to open a museum or antique store. In reality, Edna’s wealth of knowledge about all things Victorian garnered her the position of curator, working for the Riley County Historical Society for 32 years. She loved transforming the wayward Wolf House on Fremont Street into the gorgeous, time capsule of early 1900’s life that it is today. Her many fundraising efforts and publicized seasonal displays, made the Wolf House a known, and treasured, local historical attraction. Her real passion was educating everyone about the customs and practices of bygone eras. She’s started the annual tours for 4th graders, who still today get to wring out laundry and make soap. Another of her projects was the Historic Home Tours in Manhattan. We children have been very blessed to grow up in this family, and honor the life lessons learned. Old wood furniture should never be painted, refinish it. Marvel at the craftsmanship of old, from an ironsmith who pounded hot metal into a tool, to the delicate and tedious embellishments of antique linens as common handy work for wives and maidens. Be glad you don’t have to use an outhouse and pump your own water, or ride to school in a horse and buggy. And most of all, appreciate what you have and pay it forward however you can. Edna is survived by: daughter Kay Elizabeth; son Vincent Richard and wife Linda, with two children, Emily Louise and Ian Marshall; grandson Daniel Xavier and wife Mindy, with daughter Tenley Nicole; granddaughter Katelyn and husband Simon Kadzevski, with daughter Alice Ender and son Oliver Stuart.&nbsp; Her husband Alvin (Deak) passed in 2016, and son Stuart Charles in 2012. On Friday, July 29th at 9 am there will be a gathering in the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, at 1616 Poyntz Ave in Manhattan. The service starts at 9:30, followed by a short graveside service at the Ashland Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest next to the love of her life. All are welcome. If you desire to give, please make donations to the Wolfe House Museum fund, or go visit if you haven’t yet had the pleasure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Edna Lorine (Hoft) Williams

Ruth Eleanore Murtonen, or ‘Auntie Ruthie’ to the family, will be fondly remembered as a generous soul with a quiet nature and a ready smile. The call of "Auntie Ruthie, Auntie Ruthie's here!" would resound through our house akin to the coming of Santa Claus; she rarely arrived emptyhanded, always bringing thoughtful presents or treats of some sort. One favorite memory was, upon arrival, taking out a nephew and asking what he wanted to do, his response being: "Let's get something to eat!" (this nephew returned exceptionally well-fed). How precious our lives have been to know and love Auntie Ruthie.

Her own life began at the Hancock family home, in Michigan. It was February 4th, 1936, on what was bound to be a very cold day in Copper Country. In fact, it remains the coldest February on record - an average temperature of 25.2F – and perhaps the reason why she cultivated such a warm heart. Indeed, a remarkable generosity of spirit followed her through Hancock Central High School, and through to Highland Park, where she embarked on what would become a lifelong career in nursing. She worked with multiple hospitals before, in 1966, listening to the wise advice of her younger sister, Elizabeth, and so followed her into the U.S. Army. Their parents were so proud having two daughters serving our wonderful country. You may never know, when speaking to such a humble person, that she was the recipient of the National Defense Ribbon, Army Commendation Medal with OLC, Army Service Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Stars. Army service would take her all over the world, from Korea to Germany, sparking a love of travel. She even served a tour in Vietnam, where she spent her time literally saving lives. With characteristic humility, she was never the one to make mention of this either! Ever committed to service, in 1975, she obtained a B.S. in Nursing at Loretto Heights College, Denver, Colorado. She would continue to share her experience, and uniquely calm compassion, as a nurse in at Memorial hospital and Via Christi, Manhattan. When she eventually retired, it was jointly as a Lt. Colonel and Chief Nurse at Irwin AH, Fort Riley, Kansas. She had decided that, of all the places she visited, the affectionate community of the little apple in Manhattan, Kansas, would be her home for the remaining twenty-eight years of her life. The Kansas community would become an extension of her family. Auntie Ruthie was known to especially enjoy the monthly lunches with the local retired army nurses. She made so many wonderful friends, the list would be too long to mention. Everyone benefitted from her presence, and additionally the unique eye for finding the best deals on quality items; there was never a person more willing to shop with you until you drop! The family wishes to extend our thanks to said community for rallying to support us when we finally lost Auntie Ruthie.

Ruth passed away on July 21, 2022, at Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community, Manhattan. She is preceded in death by: her loving parents, Leonard Nikolai Murtonen and Saima Sanella Murtonen (née Salminen); as well as her older sister, Delores Mae Ort. She is survived by: her younger sister, Elizabeth Ann Burkhart; and her nephews Eric, Leonard, Chris, Jimmy and Jerry.

Funerary arrangements are through The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home (1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502). Cremation is planned with inurnment, and military honors, at Arlington National Cemetery.&nbsp;

Auntie Ruthie expressed that, instead of flowers, she hoped loved ones would do some unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness for someone who needs it. Such an act, speaks to her legacy, and the kind we may all hope to leave. While we all may not have an Auntie Ruthie, the world would be a kinder, loving and much gentler place if we did.

Ruth Eleanore Murtonen, or ‘Auntie Ruthie’ to the family, will be fondly remembered as a generous soul with a quiet nature and a ready smile. The call of "Auntie Ruthie, Auntie Ruthie's here!" would resound through our house akin to the coming of Santa Claus; she rarely arrived emptyhanded, always bringing thoughtful presents or treats of some sort. One favorite memory was, upon arrival, taking out a nephew and asking what he wanted to do, his response being: "Let's get something to eat!" (this nephew returned exceptionally well-fed). How precious our lives have been to know and love Auntie Ruthie. Her own life began at the Hancock family home, in Michigan. It was February 4th, 1936, on what was bound to be a very cold day in Copper Country. In fact, it remains the coldest February on record - an average temperature of 25.2F – and perhaps the reason why she cultivated such a warm heart. Indeed, a remarkable generosity of spirit followed her through Hancock Central High School, and through to Highland Park, where she embarked on what would become a lifelong career in nursing. She worked with multiple hospitals before, in 1966, listening to the wise advice of her younger sister, Elizabeth, and so followed her into the U.S. Army. Their parents were so proud having two daughters serving our wonderful country. You may never know, when speaking to such a humble person, that she was the recipient of the National Defense Ribbon, Army Commendation Medal with OLC, Army Service Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Stars. Army service would take her all over the world, from Korea to Germany, sparking a love of travel. She even served a tour in Vietnam, where she spent her time literally saving lives. With characteristic humility, she was never the one to make mention of this either! Ever committed to service, in 1975, she obtained a B.S. in Nursing at Loretto Heights College, Denver, Colorado. She would continue to share her experience, and uniquely calm compassion, as a nurse in at Memorial hospital and Via Christi, Manhattan. When she eventually retired, it was jointly as a Lt. Colonel and Chief Nurse at Irwin AH, Fort Riley, Kansas. She had decided that, of all the places she visited, the affectionate community of the little apple in Manhattan, Kansas, would be her home for the remaining twenty-eight years of her life. The Kansas community would become an extension of her family. Auntie Ruthie was known to especially enjoy the monthly lunches with the local retired army nurses. She made so many wonderful friends, the list would be too long to mention. Everyone benefitted from her presence, and additionally the unique eye for finding the best deals on quality items; there was never a person more willing to shop with you until you drop! The family wishes to extend our thanks to said community for rallying to support us when we finally lost Auntie Ruthie. Ruth passed away on July 21, 2022, at Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community, Manhattan. She is preceded in death by: her loving parents, Leonard Nikolai Murtonen and Saima Sanella Murtonen (née Salminen); as well as her older sister, Delores Mae Ort. She is survived by: her younger sister, Elizabeth Ann Burkhart; and her nephews Eric, Leonard, Chris, Jimmy and Jerry. Funerary arrangements are through The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home (1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502). Cremation is planned with inurnment, and military honors, at Arlington National Cemetery.&nbsp; Auntie Ruthie expressed that, instead of flowers, she hoped loved ones would do some unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness for someone who needs it. Such an act, speaks to her legacy, and the kind we may all hope to leave. While we all may not have an Auntie Ruthie, the world would be a kinder, loving and much gentler place if we did.

Ruth Eleanore Murtonen

Carol R. Wyatt, age 76, of Manhattan, died July 23, 2022, at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House in Manhattan. She was born June 4, 1946, in Oakland, California, the daughter of Frauncis and Martha (Domars) Robison. Carol earned her bachelors from UC Davis, her masters from University of Kentucky and her PhD from Washington State University. She worked as an assistant &amp; associate professor as well as the Associate Director of WSU’s Flow Cytometry Facility at Washington State University, and for many years was a professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University in Manhattan, KS. Following her retirement in 2013, she became professor emeritus. Carol was a member of many professional societies while a faculty member. These include Sigma Xi, The Society of Phi Zeta as an honorary member, American Society for Microbiology, American Association of Veterinary Immunologists, Conference of Research Workers in Animal Diseases and the American Society of Parasitologists. She authored numerous professional papers, wrote funding grants for immunological research and was the advisor to many graduate students. Carol’s involvement in research continued post retirement as a speaker at Meadowlark Hills retirement community on vaccines and how they protect animals from disease. She served as reviewer of many manuscripts and grant proposals, and this year was nominated for the Golden Goose award. This award recognizes “silly-sounding serendipitous and surprising research that has contributed to society” with her research titled: Serendipitous discovery of “bubble-pigs” leads to a novel large animal model for biomedical research. Carol married Stephen D. Wyatt on March 17, 1968, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Burlingame, CA. She is survived by her husband, Stephen, of Manhattan, Kansas. Additional survivors include her two sisters: Debbie Liggett and her husband Wade of Pleasanton, CA, and Diane Farrell and her husband Robert of Dawsonville, GA; her stepmother Rita Robison of Burlingame, CA; and four nieces and nephews: Andrew and Sarah Liggett, and Fiona Bell and Eddie Rivera. Carol was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Riley County Humane Society. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Carol R. Wyatt, age 76, of Manhattan, died July 23, 2022, at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House in Manhattan. She was born June 4, 1946, in Oakland, California, the daughter of Frauncis and Martha (Domars) Robison. Carol earned her bachelors from UC Davis, her masters from University of Kentucky and her PhD from Washington State University. She worked as an assistant &amp; associate professor as well as the Associate Director of WSU’s Flow Cytometry Facility at Washington State University, and for many years was a professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University in Manhattan, KS. Following her retirement in 2013, she became professor emeritus. Carol was a member of many professional societies while a faculty member. These include Sigma Xi, The Society of Phi Zeta as an honorary member, American Society for Microbiology, American Association of Veterinary Immunologists, Conference of Research Workers in Animal Diseases and the American Society of Parasitologists. She authored numerous professional papers, wrote funding grants for immunological research and was the advisor to many graduate students. Carol’s involvement in research continued post retirement as a speaker at Meadowlark Hills retirement community on vaccines and how they protect animals from disease. She served as reviewer of many manuscripts and grant proposals, and this year was nominated for the Golden Goose award. This award recognizes “silly-sounding serendipitous and surprising research that has contributed to society” with her research titled: Serendipitous discovery of “bubble-pigs” leads to a novel large animal model for biomedical research. Carol married Stephen D. Wyatt on March 17, 1968, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Burlingame, CA. She is survived by her husband, Stephen, of Manhattan, Kansas. Additional survivors include her two sisters: Debbie Liggett and her husband Wade of Pleasanton, CA, and Diane Farrell and her husband Robert of Dawsonville, GA; her stepmother Rita Robison of Burlingame, CA; and four nieces and nephews: Andrew and Sarah Liggett, and Fiona Bell and Eddie Rivera. Carol was preceded in death by her parents. Cremation is planned. Memorial contributions may be made to the Riley County Humane Society. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Carol R. Wyatt

Deanna Kay Selby, 71, of Manhattan, KS passed away on Monday, July 25, 2022. She was born July 29, 1950 in Manhattan, Deanna was the daughter of Kenneth and Bernis Parker. She grew up on a farm in the Ashland community. She attended Ashland Community Grade School through the 8th grade and Manhattan Public Schools from grades 9-12, graduating in 1968. She received a certificate from Manhattan Vocational School, where she attained secretarial skills, and later attended classes at Kansas State University. On January 2, 1970, she married Kenneth Selby and they had two sons, Quentin and Kenneth Jr. As her husband was in the armed services, she resided in Illinois and California before returning to the Manhattan area to build their permanent home in the Ashland community. She was employed as a secretary and spent many years at Kansas State University, working first in the Grain Science Department and late in the Physics Department. Deanna loved people and never forgot anyone. She would always have a gift for everyone, be it banana bread from her oven, vegetables from her garden, or something she had made such as a quilt, and always remembered to send cards to people that were sick or for special occasions. She loved to be involved in the community, constantly giving her time. She was actively involved in FCE, serving as the secretary for many years, and volunteering her time to teach lessons, provide refreshments, and assist in conducting community activities carried out by the club. Deanna was a faithful member of the Ashland Church from the time she was a child. She taught Sunday School to both children and adults and served as the secretary on the church board. Deanna frequently delivered flowers from her garden to the church for services. She also served as a community leader in 4-H while her children were growing up. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, painting and gardening, and completed the Master Gardener course. Deanna was preceded in death by her father and brother David. Survivors include: her husband, Ken; two children, Quentin Selby and friend Angel of Milton, KY, and Kenneth Selby Jr. and his wife Kristy of Grandview, MO; five grandchildren: Santana, Dakota, Kyla, Kegan, and Ian Selby; and one great-grandchild, Cameron Selby. Other survivors include her mother, Bernis, brothers Wayne (Margaret) Parker, Douglas (Ruth) Parker, Daryl (Michelle) Parker, and Tammy, wife of deceased brother David, her sister Carol (Robert) Mortimer, Candy and James Rudolph, and her close friends Jackie and Evans Reed. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 6 at 2:00 p.m. at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Paul Barkey officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. preceding the funeral. Interment will be in the Ashland Community Cemetery. Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the Ashland FCE or to the Ashland Church. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Deanna Kay Selby, 71, of Manhattan, KS passed away on Monday, July 25, 2022. She was born July 29, 1950 in Manhattan, Deanna was the daughter of Kenneth and Bernis Parker. She grew up on a farm in the Ashland community. She attended Ashland Community Grade School through the 8th grade and Manhattan Public Schools from grades 9-12, graduating in 1968. She received a certificate from Manhattan Vocational School, where she attained secretarial skills, and later attended classes at Kansas State University. On January 2, 1970, she married Kenneth Selby and they had two sons, Quentin and Kenneth Jr. As her husband was in the armed services, she resided in Illinois and California before returning to the Manhattan area to build their permanent home in the Ashland community. She was employed as a secretary and spent many years at Kansas State University, working first in the Grain Science Department and late in the Physics Department. Deanna loved people and never forgot anyone. She would always have a gift for everyone, be it banana bread from her oven, vegetables from her garden, or something she had made such as a quilt, and always remembered to send cards to people that were sick or for special occasions. She loved to be involved in the community, constantly giving her time. She was actively involved in FCE, serving as the secretary for many years, and volunteering her time to teach lessons, provide refreshments, and assist in conducting community activities carried out by the club. Deanna was a faithful member of the Ashland Church from the time she was a child. She taught Sunday School to both children and adults and served as the secretary on the church board. Deanna frequently delivered flowers from her garden to the church for services. She also served as a community leader in 4-H while her children were growing up. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, painting and gardening, and completed the Master Gardener course. Deanna was preceded in death by her father and brother David. Survivors include: her husband, Ken; two children, Quentin Selby and friend Angel of Milton, KY, and Kenneth Selby Jr. and his wife Kristy of Grandview, MO; five grandchildren: Santana, Dakota, Kyla, Kegan, and Ian Selby; and one great-grandchild, Cameron Selby. Other survivors include her mother, Bernis, brothers Wayne (Margaret) Parker, Douglas (Ruth) Parker, Daryl (Michelle) Parker, and Tammy, wife of deceased brother David, her sister Carol (Robert) Mortimer, Candy and James Rudolph, and her close friends Jackie and Evans Reed. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 6 at 2:00 p.m. at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Paul Barkey officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. preceding the funeral. Interment will be in the Ashland Community Cemetery. Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the Ashland FCE or to the Ashland Church. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Deanna Kay Selby

Robert "Bob" Stoops, 103, of Onaga, KS, passed away July 16th, in Manhattan, KS. Bob was a long-time resident of River Ridge, LA before moving to KS in 2020. He previously was an Engineer for International Lubricant Corporation, a division of Shell Oil. Robert " Bob" Saunders Stoops was born in New Orleans, LA on May 12, 1919, son of the late Ethel (Saunders) and Robert Earl Stoops. Bob graduated from high school at Porter-Gaud School in Charleston, SC, and received a B.S. degree in Engineering from Georgia Tech University and M.S. degree in Engineering from Tulane University. He served in the U.S. Army as 1st Lt during WW II and received medals from the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign (3 Bronze Service Stars); the Philippine Liberation Ribbon 1 Bronze Service Star), and served campaigns in Luzon, New Guinea, and the Bismark Archipelago. After completing his service duty, he was united in marriage to Gennieve (Allen) on June 15, 1947, in Humphreys County, Mississippi. Gennieve preceded him in death on Oct. 20, 2014. Bob and Genny were founding members of All Saints Episcopal Church, River Ridge, LA. Bob served as a member of the Jefferson Parish Council, the Louisiana Engineering Society, and the New Orleans Yacht Club. Bob is survived by his daughter, Patricia Stoops Glas, Onaga, KS, and grandchildren Barbara June Glas, Gulf Breeze, FL, and Robert Sean Glas, Lompoc, CA, and their children. Interment will be at All Saints Episcopal Church, River Ridge, LA where his ashes will be placed with his wife, Gennieve, at a later date at which time a memorial service will be announced. Local arrangements in KS are with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan, KS. Donations should be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Robert "Bob" Stoops, 103, of Onaga, KS, passed away July 16th, in Manhattan, KS. Bob was a long-time resident of River Ridge, LA before moving to KS in 2020. He previously was an Engineer for International Lubricant Corporation, a division of Shell Oil. Robert " Bob" Saunders Stoops was born in New Orleans, LA on May 12, 1919, son of the late Ethel (Saunders) and Robert Earl Stoops. Bob graduated from high school at Porter-Gaud School in Charleston, SC, and received a B.S. degree in Engineering from Georgia Tech University and M.S. degree in Engineering from Tulane University. He served in the U.S. Army as 1st Lt during WW II and received medals from the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign (3 Bronze Service Stars); the Philippine Liberation Ribbon 1 Bronze Service Star), and served campaigns in Luzon, New Guinea, and the Bismark Archipelago. After completing his service duty, he was united in marriage to Gennieve (Allen) on June 15, 1947, in Humphreys County, Mississippi. Gennieve preceded him in death on Oct. 20, 2014. Bob and Genny were founding members of All Saints Episcopal Church, River Ridge, LA. Bob served as a member of the Jefferson Parish Council, the Louisiana Engineering Society, and the New Orleans Yacht Club. Bob is survived by his daughter, Patricia Stoops Glas, Onaga, KS, and grandchildren Barbara June Glas, Gulf Breeze, FL, and Robert Sean Glas, Lompoc, CA, and their children. Interment will be at All Saints Episcopal Church, River Ridge, LA where his ashes will be placed with his wife, Gennieve, at a later date at which time a memorial service will be announced. Local arrangements in KS are with Carlson's Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home, Manhattan, KS. Donations should be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Robert "Bob" Stoops

William L. “Bill” McAfee, 86, of Westmoreland, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday (July 13, 2022) at the Westy Care Home in Westmoreland.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Born April 5, 1936 in New Carlisle, Ohio, Bill was the son of Henry and Velma (Dunn) McAfee.&nbsp; He married Esther I. Welty on November 22, 1957 in New Carlisle, Ohio.&nbsp; She preceded him in death on August 15, 2002.

Bill had been active with Boy Scouts.&nbsp; An avid sportsman, Bill loved hunting, bowling, watching Nascar and cheering on Jeff Gordon and in his younger days playing baseball. Bill was involved on the defensive end of a triple play.&nbsp; He was a K-State fan and enjoyed working with his hands working on and restoring old cars.&nbsp;

While living in Arizona, Bill loved hiking which brought out his passion for photography, taking many scenic photos while on his hikes and while traveling throughout the country with Esther.

Bill's other passion was flying. He earned his pilot's license before getting his driver's license.

Bill began his career with McCall Pattern Company as a machinist. He retired as Supervisor of Maintenance after 42 1/2 years with the company.

Survivors include two daughters, Diane Lindsey (Steve) of Manhattan, KS and Jane Matthews (Joe Jr.) of Tucson, AZ; two sons, Daniel McAfee (Brenda) of St. George, KS and James McAfee (J'Net) of Bellavista, AR; a daughter in law, Terry Umscheid-McAfee of Wamego, KS; three grandchildren, Joseph Matthews III (Sarah), Amber Griffin (Brian) and Elise Piotrowicz (Jesse); seven great grandchildren, Gwendolyn Matthews, Caedmon Piotrowicz, Arden Matthews, Vivian Matthews, Evan Matthews, Daniel Griffin, Tayton Griffin; a sister, Betty Cain (Chas) of Tipp City, OH; and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. McAfee was preceded in death by parents; his wife, Esther; a son, David McAfee; and a daughter in law, Carla McAfee.

Cremation arrangements are in the care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.

The family will meet with friends to celebrate Bill’s life on Saturday morning (August 13, 2022) from 10:00 to 12:00 at the Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.

Memorials may be made to the Westy Care Home or Accord Hospice and can be left at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home, 4370 Salzer Road, Wamego, KS 66547.

William L. “Bill” McAfee, 86, of Westmoreland, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday (July 13, 2022) at the Westy Care Home in Westmoreland.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Born April 5, 1936 in New Carlisle, Ohio, Bill was the son of Henry and Velma (Dunn) McAfee.&nbsp; He married Esther I. Welty on November 22, 1957 in New Carlisle, Ohio.&nbsp; She preceded him in death on August 15, 2002.Bill had been active with Boy Scouts.&nbsp; An avid sportsman, Bill loved hunting, bowling, watching Nascar and cheering on Jeff Gordon and in his younger days playing baseball. Bill was involved on the defensive end of a triple play.&nbsp; He was a K-State fan and enjoyed working with his hands working on and restoring old cars.&nbsp;While living in Arizona, Bill loved hiking which brought out his passion for photography, taking many scenic photos while on his hikes and while traveling throughout the country with Esther.Bill's other passion was flying. He earned his pilot's license before getting his driver's license.Bill began his career with McCall Pattern Company as a machinist. He retired as Supervisor of Maintenance after 42 1/2 years with the company.Survivors include two daughters, Diane Lindsey (Steve) of Manhattan, KS and Jane Matthews (Joe Jr.) of Tucson, AZ; two sons, Daniel McAfee (Brenda) of St. George, KS and James McAfee (J'Net) of Bellavista, AR; a daughter in law, Terry Umscheid-McAfee of Wamego, KS; three grandchildren, Joseph Matthews III (Sarah), Amber Griffin (Brian) and Elise Piotrowicz (Jesse); seven great grandchildren, Gwendolyn Matthews, Caedmon Piotrowicz, Arden Matthews, Vivian Matthews, Evan Matthews, Daniel Griffin, Tayton Griffin; a sister, Betty Cain (Chas) of Tipp City, OH; and many nieces and nephews.Mr. McAfee was preceded in death by parents; his wife, Esther; a son, David McAfee; and a daughter in law, Carla McAfee.Cremation arrangements are in the care of Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.The family will meet with friends to celebrate Bill’s life on Saturday morning (August 13, 2022) from 10:00 to 12:00 at the Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.Memorials may be made to the Westy Care Home or Accord Hospice and can be left at Campanella &amp; Stewart Funeral Home, 4370 Salzer Road, Wamego, KS 66547.

William L. “Bill” McAfee

Cheryl L. Schlenk, 74, of Atlanta, GA, passed away in her home on July 20, 2022. Cremation will take place in Atlanta, GA. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 26, 2022, at Johnson Funeral Home in Junction City, KS. A reception will follow the memorial service. Inurnment at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery in Manhattan, KS, will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Macular Degeneration Association, or an Animal Humane Society of your choice. Cheryl was born on October 9, 1947 in Goodland, KS to Ralph and Helen Gfeller. Cheryl married Sumner Schlenk on December 30, 1967 and was a devoted and loving wife for 54 years. Cheryl and Sumner were blessed with two children, Travis Sumner and Maryse Danielle. Cheryl graduated with an accounting degree from Fort Hays State University, and then obtained a Certified Public Accountant license. She worked in this profession until her retirement. Cheryl was an active volunteer for many organizations throughout the years. Cheryl was a proud and loving sister, mother, aunt, and grandmother. Cheryl loved to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren; and her friends, who she shared continual laughter with throughout years. Cheryl and her twin sister, Lana, were also known for their constant laughter, along with their deep understanding and commitment to each other. Cheryl loved all animals, especially cats, and leaves behind her beloved stray, KitKat. In recent years, Cheryl struggled with a diagnosis of dementia that ultimately took her life. Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents Ralph and Helen Gfeller, and brother Terry Gfeller. Cheryl is survived by her husband, Sumner Schlenk, Atlanta, GA. Son, Travis Schlenk, Atlanta, GA, and his wife, Sarah Schlenk, and their children Morgan, Charlotte and Will Schlenk. Daughter, Maryse Schlenk, Lawrence, KS, and her partner, Steve Sellmeyer. Cheryl’s identical twin sister Lana Starkey, Manhattan, KS, and her husband, Dave Starkey. Cheryl would also want to mention her nephews and nieces as surviving relatives, Matthew Starkey of Overland Park, KS; Jeff Starkey of Lucas, KS; Alison Bateman-House of New York, NY, and Alysia Starkey, Salina, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cheryl L. Schlenk, 74, of Atlanta, GA, passed away in her home on July 20, 2022. Cremation will take place in Atlanta, GA. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 26, 2022, at Johnson Funeral Home in Junction City, KS. A reception will follow the memorial service. Inurnment at Kansas Veterans' Cemetery in Manhattan, KS, will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Macular Degeneration Association, or an Animal Humane Society of your choice. Cheryl was born on October 9, 1947 in Goodland, KS to Ralph and Helen Gfeller. Cheryl married Sumner Schlenk on December 30, 1967 and was a devoted and loving wife for 54 years. Cheryl and Sumner were blessed with two children, Travis Sumner and Maryse Danielle. Cheryl graduated with an accounting degree from Fort Hays State University, and then obtained a Certified Public Accountant license. She worked in this profession until her retirement. Cheryl was an active volunteer for many organizations throughout the years. Cheryl was a proud and loving sister, mother, aunt, and grandmother. Cheryl loved to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren; and her friends, who she shared continual laughter with throughout years. Cheryl and her twin sister, Lana, were also known for their constant laughter, along with their deep understanding and commitment to each other. Cheryl loved all animals, especially cats, and leaves behind her beloved stray, KitKat. In recent years, Cheryl struggled with a diagnosis of dementia that ultimately took her life. Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents Ralph and Helen Gfeller, and brother Terry Gfeller. Cheryl is survived by her husband, Sumner Schlenk, Atlanta, GA. Son, Travis Schlenk, Atlanta, GA, and his wife, Sarah Schlenk, and their children Morgan, Charlotte and Will Schlenk. Daughter, Maryse Schlenk, Lawrence, KS, and her partner, Steve Sellmeyer. Cheryl’s identical twin sister Lana Starkey, Manhattan, KS, and her husband, Dave Starkey. Cheryl would also want to mention her nephews and nieces as surviving relatives, Matthew Starkey of Overland Park, KS; Jeff Starkey of Lucas, KS; Alison Bateman-House of New York, NY, and Alysia Starkey, Salina, KS.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cheryl L. Schlenk

Peggy M. Anderson, age 85, of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, July 19, 2022, at her home.

Peggy was born May 25, 1937, at Delia, Kansas, to Donald E. and Gerotha L. (Seal) Stryker.&nbsp; She graduated from Waterville High School in 1956.&nbsp; On November 23, 1957, she married Dean E. Anderson in Topeka.

Peggy was a member of the Waterville United Methodist Church, where she sung in the choir and played in the Hand Bell Choir.&nbsp; She was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose in Marysville, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and the Red Hat Society. She had been active in 4-H, Girl Scouts and serving Meals on Wheels.

Peggy enjoyed many interests and was pretty good at all of them.&nbsp; She enjoyed puzzles, games, music, fishing, traveling and gardening, she also made pretty good pies.&nbsp; And, you had to be careful, she could be pretty ornery when she wanted.

Survivors include her husband Dean, her three children:&nbsp; Gwendolyn Hemphill of Wamego, Gayla Anderson of Wamego and Michael (Lisa) Anderson of Waterville, a brother John (Janet) Stryker of Blue Rapids, Sonya (Fred) Meyer of Moscow, Idaho, six grandchildren: Jason (Kristie), Ritchie (Heather), Bryant, Andy (Kendall), Amy and Marcie, and nine great grandchildren.

Preceding Peggy in death are: a brother Joe Stryker, a sister Lorraine Reedy, a son in law Steve Hemphill and a great granddaughter Savanah.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Noon on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at the Waterville Community Center.&nbsp; A private inurnment will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the Waterville United Methodist Church&nbsp;and may be sent in care of Christie-Anderes Funeral Home at PO Box 61, Waterville, Kansas 66548.

Peggy M. Anderson, age 85, of Waterville, passed away on Tuesday, July 19, 2022, at her home.Peggy was born May 25, 1937, at Delia, Kansas, to Donald E. and Gerotha L. (Seal) Stryker.&nbsp; She graduated from Waterville High School in 1956.&nbsp; On November 23, 1957, she married Dean E. Anderson in Topeka.Peggy was a member of the Waterville United Methodist Church, where she sung in the choir and played in the Hand Bell Choir.&nbsp; She was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose in Marysville, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and the Red Hat Society. She had been active in 4-H, Girl Scouts and serving Meals on Wheels.Peggy enjoyed many interests and was pretty good at all of them.&nbsp; She enjoyed puzzles, games, music, fishing, traveling and gardening, she also made pretty good pies.&nbsp; And, you had to be careful, she could be pretty ornery when she wanted.Survivors include her husband Dean, her three children:&nbsp; Gwendolyn Hemphill of Wamego, Gayla Anderson of Wamego and Michael (Lisa) Anderson of Waterville, a brother John (Janet) Stryker of Blue Rapids, Sonya (Fred) Meyer of Moscow, Idaho, six grandchildren: Jason (Kristie), Ritchie (Heather), Bryant, Andy (Kendall), Amy and Marcie, and nine great grandchildren.Preceding Peggy in death are: a brother Joe Stryker, a sister Lorraine Reedy, a son in law Steve Hemphill and a great granddaughter Savanah.A Celebration of Life will be held at Noon on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at the Waterville Community Center.&nbsp; A private inurnment will be held at a later date.Memorials are suggested to the Waterville United Methodist Church&nbsp;and may be sent in care of Christie-Anderes Funeral Home at PO Box 61, Waterville, Kansas 66548.

Peggy M. Anderson

Sharon Harding, age 80 of Leonardville, passed away Saturday, July 23, 2022 at Advena Living of Clay Center.

She was born on March 7, 1942, the daughter of Oscar Emanuel and Anna Edna (Daniels) Burgman.  She graduated from Randolph High School in 1960.

On March 18, 1960 in Marysville, she married Charles R. Harding.  He preceded her in death in 1999.

Sharon worked as a janitor for Blue Valley schools and Keys Chicken Farm.  She later got her CNA license and worked in nursing homes for over 20 years.  She loved all sports, especially KU basketball.  Sharon and her husband coached all of their kids softball teams.  She also enjoyed fishing, gardening and canning.

She is survived by four sons, Kevin Harding (Phyllis) of Clay Center, Todd Harding (Kim) of Clay Center, Rodney Harding (Barb) of Westmoreland and Mark Harding (Trish) of Downs; one daughter, Brenda Wichman of Topeka; two sisters, Judy Springer of Hanover and Sandra Rightmeier of Randolph; 13 grandchildren and 36 great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, John Burgman, Harold “Sprug” Burgman, Val “Ferd” Burgman and Leo Burgman; three sisters, Delores Gillespie, JoAnn Fluharty and Shirley Duensing and three great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 29, 2022 at the Randolph Fancy Creek Cemetery with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating.

A memorial has been established for the Clay Center Zoo and may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Sharon Harding, age 80 of Leonardville, passed away Saturday, July 23, 2022 at Advena Living of Clay Center.She was born on March 7, 1942, the daughter of Oscar Emanuel and Anna Edna (Daniels) Burgman. She graduated from Randolph High School in 1960.On March 18, 1960 in Marysville, she married Charles R. Harding. He preceded her in death in 1999.Sharon worked as a janitor for Blue Valley schools and Keys Chicken Farm. She later got her CNA license and worked in nursing homes for over 20 years. She loved all sports, especially KU basketball. Sharon and her husband coached all of their kids softball teams. She also enjoyed fishing, gardening and canning.She is survived by four sons, Kevin Harding (Phyllis) of Clay Center, Todd Harding (Kim) of Clay Center, Rodney Harding (Barb) of Westmoreland and Mark Harding (Trish) of Downs; one daughter, Brenda Wichman of Topeka; two sisters, Judy Springer of Hanover and Sandra Rightmeier of Randolph; 13 grandchildren and 36 great grandchildren.In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, John Burgman, Harold “Sprug” Burgman, Val “Ferd” Burgman and Leo Burgman; three sisters, Delores Gillespie, JoAnn Fluharty and Shirley Duensing and three great grandchildren.Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 29, 2022 at the Randolph Fancy Creek Cemetery with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating.A memorial has been established for the Clay Center Zoo and may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Sharon Harding

CMSGT, James (Jim) E. Livergood, RET., age 71, of Knob Noster, Missouri passed away July 19, 2022.

Memorial Services will be held at 11 am, Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at the Afton Trinity Lutheran Church southwest of Marysville, Kansas.

Complete obituary information will be announced later by the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home.

CMSGT, James (Jim) E. Livergood, RET., age 71, of Knob Noster, Missouri passed away July 19, 2022.He was born on November 24, 1950.Memorial Services will be held at 11 am, Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at the Afton Trinity Lutheran Church southwest of Marysville, Kansas.Complete obituary information will be announced later by the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home.

CMSGT, James (Jim) E. Livergood, RET.,

John Franklin Turner Sr., 89 died July 21, 2022, in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; He was born on January 24, 1933, in El Dorado, the son of Lloyd and Hazel (Towner) Turner.&nbsp; John was raised in the El Dorado community.&nbsp; He married Beulah Dickson on October 21, 1950.&nbsp; John worked on oil rigs and later as an insulation installer. Beulah preceded him in death on August 6, 2020.&nbsp; John enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking and watching westerns on television.&nbsp; He was also preceded in death by his parents, 3 sisters and 5 brothers.

Son: John Turner, Jr. and wife Deanna of Clay Center, KS

Son: Terry Turner and wife Sherie of Clay Center, KS

Daughter: Deb Harlow and husband Robin of Clyde, KS

Son Jeff Turner and wife Candi of Clay Center, KS

Daughter: Kristy Reith and husband Marc of Manhattan, KS

19 Grandchildren, many Great-grandchildren and Great-great-grandchildren

Memorial Services:&nbsp; will be announced at a later date

Memorials:&nbsp; American Cancer Society c/o the funeral home

John Franklin Turner Sr., 89 died July 21, 2022, in Clay Center, KS.&nbsp; He was born on January 24, 1933, in El Dorado, the son of Lloyd and Hazel (Towner) Turner.&nbsp; John was raised in the El Dorado community.&nbsp; He married Beulah Dickson on October 21, 1950.&nbsp; John worked on oil rigs and later as an insulation installer. Beulah preceded him in death on August 6, 2020.&nbsp; John enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking and watching westerns on television.&nbsp; He was also preceded in death by his parents, 3 sisters and 5 brothers.Survivors:Son: John Turner, Jr. and wife Deanna of Clay Center, KSSon: Terry Turner and wife Sherie of Clay Center, KSDaughter: Deb Harlow and husband Robin of Clyde, KSSon Jeff Turner and wife Candi of Clay Center, KSDaughter: Kristy Reith and husband Marc of Manhattan, KS19 Grandchildren, many Great-grandchildren and Great-great-grandchildrenBrothers: Dave and RichardSisters: Carol, Barbara and FrancesMemorial Services:&nbsp; will be announced at a later dateMemorials:&nbsp; American Cancer Society c/o the funeral home

Obituaries