Wanda Florine Plautz, 95, of Bushton, Kansas, passed away November 17, 2022, at Hospital District #1 of Rice County, Lyons. She was born October 7, 1927, in Frederick, the daughter of Elda and Grace Huckstop Kitchen. 

Wanda was a lifetime Bushton area resident. She graduated from Bushton High School with the class of 1945. Wanda was a farmwife and once worked at the Rice County Extension Office in Lyons. She was a member of the Salem United Methodist Church, Bushton, United Methodist Women, and a former 4-H teacher. 

On January 27, 1946, Wanda was united in marriage with Charles Roger Plautz in Frederick. He preceded her in death on October 28, 2015. She is also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Harry Charles Kitchen; and two sisters, Arla Mae Hoelscher and Joyce Brack. 

Wanda is survived by Michael Stout of Bushton, Brian and Kristen Stout of Ellinwood, David and Pam Hoelscher of Bushton, Darrel and Susie Hoelscher of Bushton, Brenda and Dwayne Wagner of Great Bend, Donna Stout of Great Bend, Sharon Smith of Raymond, Gary and Betty Smith of Hutchinson, Carolyn Stout of Scottsdale, AZ, Douglas Stout of Great Bend, Cass Stout of Haven, Laurie and Scott Beck of Chase, Amy and Matt Hurley of Bushton, Lesley and Karl Matlock of Burrton, Bambie and Cory Steward of Sterling, Kevin Stout of Prescott, AZ, Samantha Stout of Phoenix, AZ; and many additional nieces and nephews. 

Funeral service will be at 10:00 A.M., Monday, November 21, 2022, at Salem United Methodist Church, with Pastor Tom Reazin officiating. Burial will follow in the Salem-Friedhof Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 until 5:00 P.M., Sunday, November 20, 2022, at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons, with family present.

Wanda Florine Plautz, 95, of Bushton, Kansas, passed away November 17, 2022, at Hospital District #1 of Rice County, Lyons. She was born October 7, 1927, in Frederick, the daughter of Elda and Grace Huckstop Kitchen. Wanda was a lifetime Bushton area resident. She graduated from Bushton High School with the class of 1945. Wanda was a farmwife and once worked at the Rice County Extension Office in Lyons. She was a member of the Salem United Methodist Church, Bushton, United Methodist Women, and a former 4-H teacher. On January 27, 1946, Wanda was united in marriage with Charles Roger Plautz in Frederick. He preceded her in death on October 28, 2015. She is also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Harry Charles Kitchen; and two sisters, Arla Mae Hoelscher and Joyce Brack. Wanda is survived by Michael Stout of Bushton, Brian and Kristen Stout of Ellinwood, David and Pam Hoelscher of Bushton, Darrel and Susie Hoelscher of Bushton, Brenda and Dwayne Wagner of Great Bend, Donna Stout of Great Bend, Sharon Smith of Raymond, Gary and Betty Smith of Hutchinson, Carolyn Stout of Scottsdale, AZ, Douglas Stout of Great Bend, Cass Stout of Haven, Laurie and Scott Beck of Chase, Amy and Matt Hurley of Bushton, Lesley and Karl Matlock of Burrton, Bambie and Cory Steward of Sterling, Kevin Stout of Prescott, AZ, Samantha Stout of Phoenix, AZ; and many additional nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be at 10:00 A.M., Monday, November 21, 2022, at Salem United Methodist Church, with Pastor Tom Reazin officiating. Burial will follow in the Salem-Friedhof Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 until 5:00 P.M., Sunday, November 20, 2022, at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons, with family present.

Wanda Florine Plautz  |1927-2022|  

Melissa Diane Barton, 56, of Sterling, passed away on November 17, 2022, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. She was born on October 14, 1966, in Odessa, Texas, the daughter of Herbert and Mary Lou Fletcher-Smothers. 

Melissa graduated from Diamond Hill - Jarvis in Fort Worth, TX. On October 12, 2007, she married James “Jim” Barton in Fort Worth, Texas. Melissa is survived by her husband, Jim; brother, Eddie “Noodle” Smothers; and her two children, daughter, Jennifer “Little” Winze and son, Jeffery Pruitt. 

There will be no public visitation as cremation was chosen. A Celebration of Melissa’s life will be held later.&nbsp;

Melissa Diane Barton, 56, of Sterling, passed away on November 17, 2022, at Hospice House, Hutchinson. She was born on October 14, 1966, in Odessa, Texas, the daughter of Herbert and Mary Lou Fletcher-Smothers. Melissa graduated from Diamond Hill - Jarvis in Fort Worth, TX. On October 12, 2007, she married James “Jim” Barton in Fort Worth, Texas. Melissa is survived by her husband, Jim; brother, Eddie “Noodle” Smothers; and her two children, daughter, Jennifer “Little” Winze and son, Jeffery Pruitt. There will be no public visitation as cremation was chosen. A Celebration of Melissa’s life will be held later.&nbsp;

Melissa Diane Barton  |1966-2022|  

Jerry Wells, 49, passed away in Sterling, November 13, 2022. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri, August 16, 1973, to his parents, John and Gloria Wells. Jerry grew up in Hutchinson, and enjoyed a lot of outdoor activities and sports, including baseball and football.&nbsp;

Jerry loved to draw and was quite the artist. He could always be found making music, playing the guitar and drums. He played in a band around Kansas, but would frequently serenade his friends and family, guitar in hand, bringing a smile to everyone around him. Jerry always lived life to the fullest. He loved mechanics, fast cars and making music. He was able to take some of those talents and turn them into a career, as he was an accomplished machinist.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jerry is preceded in death by his father, John Wells; brother, Michael Wells and nephew, Timothy Whittier. He is survived by his mother, Gloria Wells; brothers, John (Linda) Wells, Gary Wells, Bryan Wells, Ronald Wells, sisters, Charlotte (Charles Kepford) Wells, Trina Wells, Nova Wells, Hope Wells and his son, Jacob Wells.&nbsp;

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, involving Apostolic Faith Tabernacle Church. Jerry is, as he was in life, truly unforgettable and will be greatly missed.

Jerry Wells, 49, passed away in Sterling, November 13, 2022. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri, August 16, 1973, to his parents, John and Gloria Wells. Jerry grew up in Hutchinson, and enjoyed a lot of outdoor activities and sports, including baseball and football.&nbsp;Jerry loved to draw and was quite the artist. He could always be found making music, playing the guitar and drums. He played in a band around Kansas, but would frequently serenade his friends and family, guitar in hand, bringing a smile to everyone around him. Jerry always lived life to the fullest. He loved mechanics, fast cars and making music. He was able to take some of those talents and turn them into a career, as he was an accomplished machinist.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jerry is preceded in death by his father, John Wells; brother, Michael Wells and nephew, Timothy Whittier. He is survived by his mother, Gloria Wells; brothers, John (Linda) Wells, Gary Wells, Bryan Wells, Ronald Wells, sisters, Charlotte (Charles Kepford) Wells, Trina Wells, Nova Wells, Hope Wells and his son, Jacob Wells.&nbsp;A celebration of life will be held at a later date, involving Apostolic Faith Tabernacle Church. Jerry is, as he was in life, truly unforgettable and will be greatly missed.

Jerry Wells  |1973-2022|  

Jon Lynn Reifschneider, 61, passed away November 20, 2022, at his home.&nbsp; He was born January 4, 1961, in Garden City, to Gerald Lynn Reifschneider and Phyllis Joan (Renfro) Reifschneider.&nbsp; Jon spent a brief time in Saint Louis, MO, before moving to Great Bend.

Jon attended Harrison Junior High School and was a 1979 graduate of Great Bend Senior High School.&nbsp; While in high school, he played the french horn, trumpet and drums in the band.&nbsp; Jon participated in Debate and won third place at State with his debate partner, Libby Moore, and second place at Regionals.&nbsp; He was a member of the National Speech and Forensics League.&nbsp; Jon was the reporter for the Future Farmers of America (FFA) from 1978 to 1979 and a member of the State Student Congress.&nbsp; He attended Barton County Community College, graduating in 1981 with an Associates Degree in Pre-Law.&nbsp; In 1983, Jon obtained a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Political Science with an emphasis in Public Administration.

From 1983 to 1986, he was employed as a deputy for the Barton County Sheriff’s Reserve.&nbsp; Jon worked as an equipment operator and corrosion repairman for Straub Oil Field, Great Bend, from 1984 to 1986.&nbsp; He then went to work as a sales representative for AW Chesterton, Wichita, KS, from 1986 to 1991.&nbsp; In 1991, Jon was employed by JCI Industries as a Sales Engineer, Sales Manager, Vice-President of Sales and Sales Territory Manager, until 2020.&nbsp; He was the top Sales Engineer for a majority of his career.

Jon served on the Unified School District #310 Board of Education from 2001 to 2004.&nbsp; He served as the Board President from 2005 to 2009.&nbsp; Jon, along with his dear friend, James Williams, founded and served as co-chairpersons for the Arlington Recreation Commission in 2000.&nbsp; He, along with many other parent volunteers, coached just about every sport from T-ball to basketball.&nbsp; Jon was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, South Hutchinson.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, slow pitch softball, snow skiing, water skiing, and boating.&nbsp; Jon raised quail and developed the family farm into a wildlife refuge.&nbsp; In 2000, he received the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Wildlife Award.&nbsp; Jon’s favorite hobby was watching his kids participate in academic and athletic events through the collegiate level.&nbsp; Later in life, he enjoyed listening to music with his grandchildren in the man cave and teaching them about raising goats and cattle and going for rides in the polaris.

On January 10, 1987, Jon married Marilyn McIntosh, in Wichita.&nbsp; In 1996, they purchased their farm and move to Arlington.&nbsp; Together they had three children, Paul, Elizabeth, and Michael.

He is survived by:&nbsp; his wife, Marilyn Reifschneider of Arlington; children, Paul (Robin) Reifschneider of Newton, Elizabeth (Sean Boston) Reifschneider of Hays, and Michael (Madalyn Oliver) Reifschneider of Round Rock, TX; grandchildren, Avery Harper, Parker Lynn, Eli Gerald, Lucas Paul, and Landry Jon; and siblings, Tom (Tasha) Reifschneider and Lori Ann Reifschneider.

Jon was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents, Gerald and Phyllis Reifschneider; infant brother, Paul David Reifschneider; and parents-in-law, Charles Oscar and Leona McIntosh.

Parish Rosary will be 10 a.m. Saturday, November 26, 2022, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m., at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 612 S. Maple, South Hutchinson.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Arlington Cemetery, Arlington.&nbsp; Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, November 25, 2022, with the family present from 6 to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

Jon Lynn Reifschneider, 61, passed away November 20, 2022, at his home.&nbsp; He was born January 4, 1961, in Garden City, to Gerald Lynn Reifschneider and Phyllis Joan (Renfro) Reifschneider.&nbsp; Jon spent a brief time in Saint Louis, MO, before moving to Great Bend.Jon attended Harrison Junior High School and was a 1979 graduate of Great Bend Senior High School.&nbsp; While in high school, he played the french horn, trumpet and drums in the band.&nbsp; Jon participated in Debate and won third place at State with his debate partner, Libby Moore, and second place at Regionals.&nbsp; He was a member of the National Speech and Forensics League.&nbsp; Jon was the reporter for the Future Farmers of America (FFA) from 1978 to 1979 and a member of the State Student Congress.&nbsp; He attended Barton County Community College, graduating in 1981 with an Associates Degree in Pre-Law.&nbsp; In 1983, Jon obtained a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Political Science with an emphasis in Public Administration.From 1983 to 1986, he was employed as a deputy for the Barton County Sheriff’s Reserve.&nbsp; Jon worked as an equipment operator and corrosion repairman for Straub Oil Field, Great Bend, from 1984 to 1986.&nbsp; He then went to work as a sales representative for AW Chesterton, Wichita, KS, from 1986 to 1991.&nbsp; In 1991, Jon was employed by JCI Industries as a Sales Engineer, Sales Manager, Vice-President of Sales and Sales Territory Manager, until 2020.&nbsp; He was the top Sales Engineer for a majority of his career.Jon served on the Unified School District #310 Board of Education from 2001 to 2004.&nbsp; He served as the Board President from 2005 to 2009.&nbsp; Jon, along with his dear friend, James Williams, founded and served as co-chairpersons for the Arlington Recreation Commission in 2000.&nbsp; He, along with many other parent volunteers, coached just about every sport from T-ball to basketball.&nbsp; Jon was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, South Hutchinson.He enjoyed fishing, hunting, slow pitch softball, snow skiing, water skiing, and boating.&nbsp; Jon raised quail and developed the family farm into a wildlife refuge.&nbsp; In 2000, he received the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Wildlife Award.&nbsp; Jon’s favorite hobby was watching his kids participate in academic and athletic events through the collegiate level.&nbsp; Later in life, he enjoyed listening to music with his grandchildren in the man cave and teaching them about raising goats and cattle and going for rides in the polaris.On January 10, 1987, Jon married Marilyn McIntosh, in Wichita.&nbsp; In 1996, they purchased their farm and move to Arlington.&nbsp; Together they had three children, Paul, Elizabeth, and Michael.He is survived by:&nbsp; his wife, Marilyn Reifschneider of Arlington; children, Paul (Robin) Reifschneider of Newton, Elizabeth (Sean Boston) Reifschneider of Hays, and Michael (Madalyn Oliver) Reifschneider of Round Rock, TX; grandchildren, Avery Harper, Parker Lynn, Eli Gerald, Lucas Paul, and Landry Jon; and siblings, Tom (Tasha) Reifschneider and Lori Ann Reifschneider.Jon was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents, Gerald and Phyllis Reifschneider; infant brother, Paul David Reifschneider; and parents-in-law, Charles Oscar and Leona McIntosh.Parish Rosary will be 10 a.m. Saturday, November 26, 2022, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m., at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 612 S. Maple, South Hutchinson.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Arlington Cemetery, Arlington.&nbsp; Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, November 25, 2022, with the family present from 6 to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

Jon Lynn Reifschneider  |1961-2022|  

Pete Whitlock, 91, formerly of Hutchinson, died November 20, 2022, at Victoria Falls Assisted Living, Andover.&nbsp; He was born June 28, 1931, in Hutchinson, to Thomas Albert and Daisy Alice (Gass) Whitlock.

Pete served in the United States Army and Navy Reserves.&nbsp; He loved to fish and spend time with family and friends.

Pete is survived by:&nbsp; daughters, Cathy (Tom) McBride of Grandview, MO, and Cheryl (Dan) Thompson of Towanda; siblings, Shelia Mattison and Dick Whitlock, both of Hutchinson, and Micki Clift of Missouri; 10 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren; and Joan Whitlock of Andover.&nbsp;

He was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents; two brothers, three sisters; a daughter, Cynthia Whitlock Beshore; and a son, Chris Whitlock.

Cremation has taken place. Pete requested no service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pete Whitlock, 91, formerly of Hutchinson, died November 20, 2022, at Victoria Falls Assisted Living, Andover.&nbsp; He was born June 28, 1931, in Hutchinson, to Thomas Albert and Daisy Alice (Gass) Whitlock.Pete served in the United States Army and Navy Reserves.&nbsp; He loved to fish and spend time with family and friends.Pete is survived by:&nbsp; daughters, Cathy (Tom) McBride of Grandview, MO, and Cheryl (Dan) Thompson of Towanda; siblings, Shelia Mattison and Dick Whitlock, both of Hutchinson, and Micki Clift of Missouri; 10 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren; and Joan Whitlock of Andover.&nbsp;He was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents; two brothers, three sisters; a daughter, Cynthia Whitlock Beshore; and a son, Chris Whitlock.Cremation has taken place. Pete requested no service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pete Whitlock  |1931-2022|  

Marvin Leon Nelson, 71, died November 19, 2022, at his home. He was born March 26, 1951, in Ulysses, to John Henry and Fern Marie (Souder) Nelson.

For over 30 years, Marvin was the superintendent for Reno County Public Works.&nbsp; He also owned his own mechanic business, “Nelson’s Automotive”.&nbsp; Marvin enjoyed rebuilding and restoring antique vehicles, and fishing.

On April 7, 1989, he married Cheryl Ann Hoskinson, in Hutchinson.

Marvin is survived by:&nbsp; his wife of over 33 years, Cheryl; children, John W. Nelson, Donna Ranzau (Darell), Sherry Medrano, and Boe Nelson (Jessica); bonus children, Diane Favinger and Dan Smith (Kyndal); brothers, Johnny R. Nelson (Pam) and Harold D. Nelson; 17 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents; three brothers, Donald Guy, Morris Guy, and Larry Guy; and one sister, Mary Guy.

Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 9, 2022, at Elliott Chapel.&nbsp; Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; Cremation has taken place.

Marvin Leon Nelson, 71, died November 19, 2022, at his home. He was born March 26, 1951, in Ulysses, to John Henry and Fern Marie (Souder) Nelson.For over 30 years, Marvin was the superintendent for Reno County Public Works.&nbsp; He also owned his own mechanic business, “Nelson’s Automotive”.&nbsp; Marvin enjoyed rebuilding and restoring antique vehicles, and fishing.On April 7, 1989, he married Cheryl Ann Hoskinson, in Hutchinson.Marvin is survived by:&nbsp; his wife of over 33 years, Cheryl; children, John W. Nelson, Donna Ranzau (Darell), Sherry Medrano, and Boe Nelson (Jessica); bonus children, Diane Favinger and Dan Smith (Kyndal); brothers, Johnny R. Nelson (Pam) and Harold D. Nelson; 17 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.He was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents; three brothers, Donald Guy, Morris Guy, and Larry Guy; and one sister, Mary Guy.Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 9, 2022, at Elliott Chapel.&nbsp; Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; Cremation has taken place.

Marvin Leon Nelson  |1951-2022|  

Mark Stephen Knight, 57, of Lyons, passed away November 18, 2022, at Riverview Estates, Marquette. He was born May 14, 1965, in Lyons, the son of Kenneth Edward “Kenny” and JoAnna McCoy Knight. 

Mark was a lifelong Lyons resident. He graduated from Lyons High School with the class of 1983; and later attended Kansas State University and Hutchinson Community College, where he played football. Mark worked for Knight Farms, before assuming responsibility of managing Knight Feedlot from 1990 until 2016. 

He was also co-owner of Calm Creek Carriers, Lyons since 2008. Mark was a member of the Church of Christ, Lyons and attended the First Christian Church, Lyons in his early years. He served on the Lyons USD #405 School Board, KLA Leadership Conference, KLA Rice County Committeeman, KLA Board of Directors At Large, KLA Board of Directors Rice County, KLA Natural Resources Committee member, KLA Natural Resources Committee Vice Chair, KLA Natural Resources Chair, KLA Policy &amp; Resolutions Committee, KLA Water Committee, KLA School Finance Task Force, KLA Cattle Feeders Council, KLA RMS Safety Committee, Kansas Beef Council Executive Committee, NCBA Young Cattlemen’s Conference, NCBA Board of Directors Policy, NCBA Property Rights/Environmental Management Committee, and NCBA Tax &amp; Credit Committee. 

Mark was also involved with the K.A.R.L. program. Mark enjoyed going to Kansas State University Football games, tailgating with his family and friends, and taking care of pasture cattle. He played Santa on the Lyons Square at Christmastime for several years. 

On December 7, 1984, Mark was united in marriage with Sherri Suhler in Lyons. She survives of the home. He is also survived by his two children, Chelsi Neufeldt and husband Scott of Inman, and Luke Knight and wife Kala of Lyons; sister, Kathryn Maxwell and husband Mark of Manhattan; sister-in-law, Susie Knight-Loges and husband Charles of McPherson; three grandchildren, Westin and Landon Neufeldt, and Goldie Knight; stepmother, Tamara Knight of Lyons; step-sister, Lindsay Hufnagel and husband Shad of Manhattan; step-brother, Ryan Boltz and wife Holly, Lyons; and numerous nieces and nephews. Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and JoAnna Knight; two brothers, Phillip Alan Knight and K. John Knight; and sister, Judith Knight Hutton.

 Funeral service will be at 10:30 A.M., Monday, November 28, 2022, at the Church of Christ, Lyons with Robert Taverner and Steve Sears officiating. Burial will follow at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 until 7:00 P.M., Sunday, November 27, 2022, at the Church of Christ, Lyons, with family present from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M.

Mark Stephen Knight, 57, of Lyons, passed away November 18, 2022, at Riverview Estates, Marquette. He was born May 14, 1965, in Lyons, the son of Kenneth Edward “Kenny” and JoAnna McCoy Knight. Mark was a lifelong Lyons resident. He graduated from Lyons High School with the class of 1983; and later attended Kansas State University and Hutchinson Community College, where he played football. Mark worked for Knight Farms, before assuming responsibility of managing Knight Feedlot from 1990 until 2016. He was also co-owner of Calm Creek Carriers, Lyons since 2008. Mark was a member of the Church of Christ, Lyons and attended the First Christian Church, Lyons in his early years. He served on the Lyons USD #405 School Board, KLA Leadership Conference, KLA Rice County Committeeman, KLA Board of Directors At Large, KLA Board of Directors Rice County, KLA Natural Resources Committee member, KLA Natural Resources Committee Vice Chair, KLA Natural Resources Chair, KLA Policy &amp; Resolutions Committee, KLA Water Committee, KLA School Finance Task Force, KLA Cattle Feeders Council, KLA RMS Safety Committee, Kansas Beef Council Executive Committee, NCBA Young Cattlemen’s Conference, NCBA Board of Directors Policy, NCBA Property Rights/Environmental Management Committee, and NCBA Tax &amp; Credit Committee. Mark was also involved with the K.A.R.L. program. Mark enjoyed going to Kansas State University Football games, tailgating with his family and friends, and taking care of pasture cattle. He played Santa on the Lyons Square at Christmastime for several years. On December 7, 1984, Mark was united in marriage with Sherri Suhler in Lyons. She survives of the home. He is also survived by his two children, Chelsi Neufeldt and husband Scott of Inman, and Luke Knight and wife Kala of Lyons; sister, Kathryn Maxwell and husband Mark of Manhattan; sister-in-law, Susie Knight-Loges and husband Charles of McPherson; three grandchildren, Westin and Landon Neufeldt, and Goldie Knight; stepmother, Tamara Knight of Lyons; step-sister, Lindsay Hufnagel and husband Shad of Manhattan; step-brother, Ryan Boltz and wife Holly, Lyons; and numerous nieces and nephews. Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and JoAnna Knight; two brothers, Phillip Alan Knight and K. John Knight; and sister, Judith Knight Hutton. Funeral service will be at 10:30 A.M., Monday, November 28, 2022, at the Church of Christ, Lyons with Robert Taverner and Steve Sears officiating. Burial will follow at the Lyons Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 until 7:00 P.M., Sunday, November 27, 2022, at the Church of Christ, Lyons, with family present from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M.

Mark Stephen Knight  |1965-2022|  

Nancy Claire Scallon, 84, of Lindsborg died Friday, November 18, 2022 at Bethany Home.  Nancy was born July 8, 1938 in Los Angeles, CA to the late Clare and Virginia (Higgins) Scallon.  

She is survived by her nephews: Troy Hill and Mark Carter; niece: Dana Hill; as well as several great nieces and nephews.

Cremation has been chosen and local services are not planned.

Nancy Claire Scallon, 84, of Lindsborg died Friday, November 18, 2022 at Bethany Home. Nancy was born July 8, 1938 in Los Angeles, CA to the late Clare and Virginia (Higgins) Scallon. Nancy worked as a data entry technician.She is survived by her nephews: Troy Hill and Mark Carter; niece: Dana Hill; as well as several great nieces and nephews.Cremation has been chosen and local services are not planned.

Nancy Claire Scallon  |1938-2022|  

John Dale Apel (Dale) passed away on November 15, 2022, in Lindsborg, Kansas, at the age of 93. Born in Wichita, he grew up on rural farms in Chautauqua and Elk Counties and graduated from Sedan High School after significant involvement in 4-H and Future Farmers of America. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Kansas State Agricultural College (later Kansas State University), and later achieved a Master of Arts degree in Communications and Social Psychology from American University in Washington, D.C., and a PhD in Adult Education from the University of Chicago. 

     Dale began his more than 45-year career with the 4-H Foundation and the Kansas State University Cooperative Extension Service, 4-H and Youth Development Department, during his Kansas State College summers when he served as an Emergency Assistant 4-H Agent. His interest continued when he was selected as one of four Kansan delegates to the National 4-H Camp in Washington, D.C. Shortly after graduating from K-State, Dale worked as editor of the South Dakota Bureau Farming and as a lobbyist for the South Dakota Farm Bureau. His 4-H Extension service was briefly interrupted when Dale served two years in the Korean war effort between 1951-1953. He served as a cryptographer in Taegu, Korea, with the U.S. Military Advisory Group to the Republic of Korea Army. 

     In 1953, Dale returned to Kansas and continued his service to the 4-H Foundation and KSU’s 4-H Extension. He worked as an agent in Morris and Saline Counties before briefly serving as the editor for the Kansas 4-H Journal in Manhattan. He built his adult life in Manhattan, serving 4-H as a specialist and most of his career as the Associate State Leader. His 4-H responsibilities included staff (volunteer and professional) development and program development, and was focused on building 4-H member retention initiatives. His advanced studies at American University and the University of Chicago led him to believe strongly in the importance of “self-set” goals as the key for 4-H member retention, as well as the basis for anyone’s career and life self-fulfillment.  

     Dale married 4-H Extension colleague Mary Dean Holle in 1961. They settled in Manhattan and raised three children, John William, Dean Marsh, and Ellen Ann. Dale and Mary Dean divorced in 1990.

     Dale was the co-founder of Kansas Evergreens, Inc. What began as a “Christmas tree farm” evolved to offer wholesale pine trees and household plant sales to major retailers in Colorado, New Mexico, and Kansas. From 1961 to the mid-1980’s, the entire family was involved in raising trees and plants. Apel Road near St. George marks the place where Christmas trees were once grown.

     Upon retirement, Dale relocated to Overland Park. He pursued a great number of personal interests including voraciously reading books of all kinds, and matting and framing pictures and prints. Dale became engrossed in genealogy and worked to develop a written history of his mother’s family, the Encells. He also worked for several years in tax return preparation. Dale developed a specific interest in the theatre and met his second wife, Shirley Tucker, while ushering for a dinner theatre. They married in March 2002, at Village Presbyterian Church and settled into her home in Overland Park. They shared a passion for day-trading, small dogs, their church, and the Kansas City Chiefs, but Dale never quite adopted Shirley’s passion for fishing. 

     Shortly after Shirley’s death in 2021, Dale moved to Lindsborg, to be closer to family. While in Lindsborg he enjoyed being near Saline County (one of his first areas of responsibility as a 4-H County Agent), being surrounded by Swedish culture, and pursuing a discipline of daily visits to the gym.

     Dale is preceded in death by his parents John George Apel, Jr. and Eleanor Dryden Encell Apel, first wife Mary Dean Holle Apel, wife Shirley Tucker Apel, brother (Paul) Encell Apel and sister-in-law Deloris Hoskins Apel. He is survived by his children John and Regina Apel (Soldier), Dean and Ann-Christin Apel (Lindsborg), Ellen Apel (Minneapolis, MN), and his six grandchildren Yeremiah Apel (Vännäs, Sweden), Yohannes and wife Cecilia Apel (Lund, Sweden), Maria Apel (Lund, Sweden), Lukas Apel (Hays), Frederik Apel (Soldier), and Phillip Apel (Soldier).

     A memorial service and time of fellowship will be held in the chapel at Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan, at 2 p.m., Sunday, December 18. A short graveside ceremony will be held the preceding day at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 17 at the Grace Lawn Cemetery in Howard. 

John Dale Apel (Dale) passed away on November 15, 2022, in Lindsborg, Kansas, at the age of 93. Born in Wichita, he grew up on rural farms in Chautauqua and Elk Counties and graduated from Sedan High School after significant involvement in 4-H and Future Farmers of America. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Kansas State Agricultural College (later Kansas State University), and later achieved a Master of Arts degree in Communications and Social Psychology from American University in Washington, D.C., and a PhD in Adult Education from the University of Chicago. Dale began his more than 45-year career with the 4-H Foundation and the Kansas State University Cooperative Extension Service, 4-H and Youth Development Department, during his Kansas State College summers when he served as an Emergency Assistant 4-H Agent. His interest continued when he was selected as one of four Kansan delegates to the National 4-H Camp in Washington, D.C. Shortly after graduating from K-State, Dale worked as editor of the South Dakota Bureau Farming and as a lobbyist for the South Dakota Farm Bureau. His 4-H Extension service was briefly interrupted when Dale served two years in the Korean war effort between 1951-1953. He served as a cryptographer in Taegu, Korea, with the U.S. Military Advisory Group to the Republic of Korea Army. In 1953, Dale returned to Kansas and continued his service to the 4-H Foundation and KSU’s 4-H Extension. He worked as an agent in Morris and Saline Counties before briefly serving as the editor for the Kansas 4-H Journal in Manhattan. He built his adult life in Manhattan, serving 4-H as a specialist and most of his career as the Associate State Leader. His 4-H responsibilities included staff (volunteer and professional) development and program development, and was focused on building 4-H member retention initiatives. His advanced studies at American University and the University of Chicago led him to believe strongly in the importance of “self-set” goals as the key for 4-H member retention, as well as the basis for anyone’s career and life self-fulfillment. Dale married 4-H Extension colleague Mary Dean Holle in 1961. They settled in Manhattan and raised three children, John William, Dean Marsh, and Ellen Ann. Dale and Mary Dean divorced in 1990. Dale was the co-founder of Kansas Evergreens, Inc. What began as a “Christmas tree farm” evolved to offer wholesale pine trees and household plant sales to major retailers in Colorado, New Mexico, and Kansas. From 1961 to the mid-1980’s, the entire family was involved in raising trees and plants. Apel Road near St. George marks the place where Christmas trees were once grown. Upon retirement, Dale relocated to Overland Park. He pursued a great number of personal interests including voraciously reading books of all kinds, and matting and framing pictures and prints. Dale became engrossed in genealogy and worked to develop a written history of his mother’s family, the Encells. He also worked for several years in tax return preparation. Dale developed a specific interest in the theatre and met his second wife, Shirley Tucker, while ushering for a dinner theatre. They married in March 2002, at Village Presbyterian Church and settled into her home in Overland Park. They shared a passion for day-trading, small dogs, their church, and the Kansas City Chiefs, but Dale never quite adopted Shirley’s passion for fishing. Shortly after Shirley’s death in 2021, Dale moved to Lindsborg, to be closer to family. While in Lindsborg he enjoyed being near Saline County (one of his first areas of responsibility as a 4-H County Agent), being surrounded by Swedish culture, and pursuing a discipline of daily visits to the gym. Dale is preceded in death by his parents John George Apel, Jr. and Eleanor Dryden Encell Apel, first wife Mary Dean Holle Apel, wife Shirley Tucker Apel, brother (Paul) Encell Apel and sister-in-law Deloris Hoskins Apel. He is survived by his children John and Regina Apel (Soldier), Dean and Ann-Christin Apel (Lindsborg), Ellen Apel (Minneapolis, MN), and his six grandchildren Yeremiah Apel (Vännäs, Sweden), Yohannes and wife Cecilia Apel (Lund, Sweden), Maria Apel (Lund, Sweden), Lukas Apel (Hays), Frederik Apel (Soldier), and Phillip Apel (Soldier). A memorial service and time of fellowship will be held in the chapel at Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan, at 2 p.m., Sunday, December 18. A short graveside ceremony will be held the preceding day at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 17 at the Grace Lawn Cemetery in Howard.

John Dale Apel (Dale)  |1929-2022|  

Bernard J. Hausfeld, 93, died Nov. 18, 2022 at his home outside Kingman.&nbsp; He was the son of Clarence J. and Mary A. Goebel Hausfeld.

He was born Sept. 14, 1929, in Dayton, Ohio.&nbsp; It was there he met and married the love of his life, Louise “Fritzie” Sprauer.&nbsp; She preceded him in death shortly following their 60th wedding anniversary to prepare his new home with the Lord.

He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War as a Designated Aviation Photographer, Second Class Petty Officer.&nbsp; Returning to Dayton, Ohio, Bernie became a Design Engineer for NCR (National Cash Register).&nbsp; The company sent his family of eight to Wichita, Kansas in 1973.&nbsp; In their later years, they moved to the country to enjoy the quiet life together.

He was a member of the St. Louis Catholic Church, Waterloo.

Bernie is survived by his six children; Regina Barker (Mark), Dianna Simon (Fred), Patricia Pearson (Travis), Chris Hausfeld (Amy), Maria Hoffman (Matt), Bill Hausfeld (Anne Marie); his brother Gene Hausfeld; 15 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings Irene, CJ, Collette, Clete, Bob, Jerry and Carm.

Parish Rosary will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 23rd, at the St. Louis Catholic Church, Waterloo.&nbsp; The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Wednesday at the Church followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m.&nbsp; Burial will be in the St. Louis Church Cemetery.

Bernard J. Hausfeld, 93, died Nov. 18, 2022 at his home outside Kingman.&nbsp; He was the son of Clarence J. and Mary A. Goebel Hausfeld.He was born Sept. 14, 1929, in Dayton, Ohio.&nbsp; It was there he met and married the love of his life, Louise “Fritzie” Sprauer.&nbsp; She preceded him in death shortly following their 60th wedding anniversary to prepare his new home with the Lord.He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War as a Designated Aviation Photographer, Second Class Petty Officer.&nbsp; Returning to Dayton, Ohio, Bernie became a Design Engineer for NCR (National Cash Register).&nbsp; The company sent his family of eight to Wichita, Kansas in 1973.&nbsp; In their later years, they moved to the country to enjoy the quiet life together.He was a member of the St. Louis Catholic Church, Waterloo.Bernie is survived by his six children; Regina Barker (Mark), Dianna Simon (Fred), Patricia Pearson (Travis), Chris Hausfeld (Amy), Maria Hoffman (Matt), Bill Hausfeld (Anne Marie); his brother Gene Hausfeld; 15 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings Irene, CJ, Collette, Clete, Bob, Jerry and Carm.Parish Rosary will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 23rd, at the St. Louis Catholic Church, Waterloo.&nbsp; The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Wednesday at the Church followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m.&nbsp; Burial will be in the St. Louis Church Cemetery.

Bernard J. Hausfeld  |1929-2022|  

Marleen Fairchild, 75, died November 17, 2022 at Wheatlands Health Care Center, Kingman.

She was born November 11, 1947, at Kingman, the daughter of Lawrence Dean and Etta Mae Harrison Cooley.  A lifelong resident of Kingman County, she was a retired Physician Assistant, Registered Nurse and Paramedic.  She was a Diploma Nurse graduating from Grace Hospital School of Nursing in 1969.  She was the first female EMS Director for Kingman County and served as a Member of the Board of the Kansas EMS.  She was a Physician Assistant under Dr. Victoria Moots and practiced at the Cunningham Clinic and Donley Clinic.

She was a member of Kingman Christian Church.

On June 9, 1973, she married Duane Fairchild at Kingman, he died January 3, 2010.  Survivors include daughters, Kim Fairchild (Bob Moorokian), Kristy Sourk (Bob), Lora Johnston (Brad), Kerri Hageman-Smith (Kam);  Daughter-In-Law Jenny Fairchild; sisters, LaDean Bailey (Jack), Rogene Jarmer (Wayne); 24 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by two sons, David Fairchild and Robert Holland; and parents Dean and Etta Mae Cooley.

Services will be held Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at 1:00 pm with pastors Josh Bell, Kelly Jayne and Robert Roswurm at Kingman Christian Church, Kingman.  Friends may call from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday at the Livingston Funeral Home with the family receiving friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Burial will be in the Maud Cemetery, Cunningham.

Marleen Fairchild, 75, died November 17, 2022 at Wheatlands Health Care Center, Kingman.She was born November 11, 1947, at Kingman, the daughter of Lawrence Dean and Etta Mae Harrison Cooley. A lifelong resident of Kingman County, she was a retired Physician Assistant, Registered Nurse and Paramedic. She was a Diploma Nurse graduating from Grace Hospital School of Nursing in 1969. She was the first female EMS Director for Kingman County and served as a Member of the Board of the Kansas EMS. She was a Physician Assistant under Dr. Victoria Moots and practiced at the Cunningham Clinic and Donley Clinic.She was a member of Kingman Christian Church.On June 9, 1973, she married Duane Fairchild at Kingman, he died January 3, 2010. Survivors include daughters, Kim Fairchild (Bob Moorokian), Kristy Sourk (Bob), Lora Johnston (Brad), Kerri Hageman-Smith (Kam); Daughter-In-Law Jenny Fairchild; sisters, LaDean Bailey (Jack), Rogene Jarmer (Wayne); 24 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sons, David Fairchild and Robert Holland; and parents Dean and Etta Mae Cooley.Services will be held Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at 1:00 pm with pastors Josh Bell, Kelly Jayne and Robert Roswurm at Kingman Christian Church, Kingman. Friends may call from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday at the Livingston Funeral Home with the family receiving friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Maud Cemetery, Cunningham.

Marleen Fairchild  |1947-2022|  

Curtis Eugene Rhea, 70, of McPherson, passed away at 5:25 a.m., Saturday, November 19, 2022 at his residence. Curtis was born in McPherson, Kansas on November 18, 1952, a son of Alvina (Nightingale) and Vergial Edwin Rhea. Through the years Curtis attended Moundridge grade school, Moundridge Middle School and Moundridge High School, Moundridge, Kansas. He then attended Hutchinson Community College, Hutchinson, Kansas. Through the years Curtis worked for Midwest Industries in McPherson as a production worker. Curtis enjoyed remote control planes, models, gardening, yard work, his dogs and spending time with friends and family. Curtis Eugene Rhea was united in marriage to Dena Sue Trindale on Oct. 1, 1971. The young couple established their first home together in McPherson. This union was blessed with the birth of three sons, Timothy, Heath and Brian. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Dena Rhea, of McPherson; his children, Heath Rhea, of McPherson, and Brian Rhea and his wife Lillian, of McPherson. He is also survived by 3 grandchildren, Josh, Luke and Olivia Grace. Curtis is proceeded in death by his parents; his son, Timothy Rhea; grandson Austin Rhea and daughter in law, Tracy Rhea Visitation will be held on Monday, November 21, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Glidden-Ediger-Wiggins Chapel in McPherson. Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at Glidden-Ediger-Wiggins Chapel in McPherson, with Chaplain LeNora Duerksen officiating. Memorials are to the Curtis Rhea Memorial Fund, and they can be sent to Glidden-Ediger-Wiggins Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid St., McPherson, 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Curtis Eugene Rhea, 70, of McPherson, passed away at 5:25 a.m., Saturday, November 19, 2022 at his residence. Curtis was born in McPherson, Kansas on November 18, 1952, a son of Alvina (Nightingale) and Vergial Edwin Rhea. Through the years Curtis attended Moundridge grade school, Moundridge Middle School and Moundridge High School, Moundridge, Kansas. He then attended Hutchinson Community College, Hutchinson, Kansas. Through the years Curtis worked for Midwest Industries in McPherson as a production worker. Curtis enjoyed remote control planes, models, gardening, yard work, his dogs and spending time with friends and family. Curtis Eugene Rhea was united in marriage to Dena Sue Trindale on Oct. 1, 1971. The young couple established their first home together in McPherson. This union was blessed with the birth of three sons, Timothy, Heath and Brian. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Dena Rhea, of McPherson; his children, Heath Rhea, of McPherson, and Brian Rhea and his wife Lillian, of McPherson. He is also survived by 3 grandchildren, Josh, Luke and Olivia Grace. Curtis is proceeded in death by his parents; his son, Timothy Rhea; grandson Austin Rhea and daughter in law, Tracy Rhea Visitation will be held on Monday, November 21, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Glidden-Ediger-Wiggins Chapel in McPherson. Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at Glidden-Ediger-Wiggins Chapel in McPherson, with Chaplain LeNora Duerksen officiating. Memorials are to the Curtis Rhea Memorial Fund, and they can be sent to Glidden-Ediger-Wiggins Funeral Home, 222 W. Euclid St., McPherson, 67460.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Curtis Eugene Rhea  |1952-2022|  

Todd David Culver, 53, of Inman, passed away at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, November 20, 2022 at his residence. Todd was born in McPherson, on June 12, 1969, a son of Connie Lynn (Gibson) Duske and David Frank Culver. Through the years Todd attended Lincoln Grade School, McPherson Junior High School, McPherson Middle School and graduated from McPherson High School, McPherson. Through the years Todd worked as a Fiberizer for John Manville. Todd enjoyed kayaking, music and baseball. Todd David Culver was united in marriage to Stacey Lynette Baxter on August 19, 1988 in McPherson. The young established their first home in McPherson. This union was blessed with the birth of three children, Samantha, Sommer and Slater.. He is survived by his parents, Connie Duske and her husband Dean, of McPherson, Kansas and David Culver, of McPherson, Kansas; his children, Sommer Oliver, of McPherson, and Slater Culver, of Inman; his brother, Darin Duske, of McPherson and his sister, Ashley Duske, of McPherson. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Kydon and Sawyer. Todd was preceded in death by his wife Stacey. Services will be at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Todd David Culver, 53, of Inman, passed away at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, November 20, 2022 at his residence. Todd was born in McPherson, on June 12, 1969, a son of Connie Lynn (Gibson) Duske and David Frank Culver. Through the years Todd attended Lincoln Grade School, McPherson Junior High School, McPherson Middle School and graduated from McPherson High School, McPherson. Through the years Todd worked as a Fiberizer for John Manville. Todd enjoyed kayaking, music and baseball. Todd David Culver was united in marriage to Stacey Lynette Baxter on August 19, 1988 in McPherson. The young established their first home in McPherson. This union was blessed with the birth of three children, Samantha, Sommer and Slater.. He is survived by his parents, Connie Duske and her husband Dean, of McPherson, Kansas and David Culver, of McPherson, Kansas; his children, Sommer Oliver, of McPherson, and Slater Culver, of Inman; his brother, Darin Duske, of McPherson and his sister, Ashley Duske, of McPherson. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Kydon and Sawyer. Todd was preceded in death by his wife Stacey. Services will be at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Todd David Culver  |1969-2022|  

Linford James Miller, 69, passed peacefully from this life on November 17, 2022, after a five-month struggle with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Linford was born July 14, 1953, in Hutchinson, to Perry and Judy Miller. Delivered with learning disabilities, he was physically strong and blessed by the nurturing of his devoted parents. He completed eleven years in the Hutchinson special education program. Among his accomplishments was mastery of four-digit multiplication with pencil and paper.

In his youth, Linford was baptized on his confession of faith in Jesus and joined the Center Amish Mennonite Church of rural Hutchinson. One skill he honed was memorizing church members’ birthdays, giving him a conversational connection with people. He also roamed the parking lot to memorize the odometer readings of their cars.

Linford helped tend and till his mother’s large garden, assisted seasonally in the transplanting of plants at Stutzman’s Greenhouse, and loved to stack small square bales on his uncles’ hay wagons. In midlife, he cut lumber and shingle components at Sturdi-Bilt Storage Barns. His one-liners became legendary with his coworkers and all who knew him.

In 1999, realizing his need for a more structured schedule and supervision, his parents placed him at Faith Mission Home, a faith-based residential training program in Virginia for the developmentally disabled. He lived with three other men and their supervisors on a small farm for sixteen years. He experienced a good life under the patient and sacrificial tutelage of his Christian mentors. By 2016, due to his declining mobility and verbal communication, Linford needed to find a new home. So, at age 62 he moved to Mennonite Friendship Communities, where the staff has compassionately and faithfully served him. Staff members will long remember his big smiles and ready hugs, along with his limited communication punctuated by frequent admonitions to “Hurry up” and other catchphrases.

The family acknowledges and thanks the care team members of Faith Mission Home, Mennonite Friendship Communities, and Gentiva Hospice (formerly Kindred) for the genuine friendship and devoted service they freely gave us and our loved one.

Linford is survived by: his three brothers: Gary Miller (Rosanna) and Allen Miller, Hutchinson, Wilbur Miller (Shirley), Columbus, OH; two nieces and seven nephews; sixteen grandnieces and fourteen grandnephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents and fourteen aunts and uncles.

A visitation will be held from 5-7:30 p.m. Saturday, November 19, 2022, at Center AM Church, 7611 W. Morgan Ave., Hutchinson. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, November 20, 2022, at the church. The funeral service will be live-streamed (follow the link at centeramishmennonite.org). Burial will follow at the West Center Cemetery. After the burial, everyone is invited back to the church for a meal.

Linford James Miller, 69, passed peacefully from this life on November 17, 2022, after a five-month struggle with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).Linford was born July 14, 1953, in Hutchinson, to Perry and Judy Miller. Delivered with learning disabilities, he was physically strong and blessed by the nurturing of his devoted parents. He completed eleven years in the Hutchinson special education program. Among his accomplishments was mastery of four-digit multiplication with pencil and paper.In his youth, Linford was baptized on his confession of faith in Jesus and joined the Center Amish Mennonite Church of rural Hutchinson. One skill he honed was memorizing church members’ birthdays, giving him a conversational connection with people. He also roamed the parking lot to memorize the odometer readings of their cars.Linford helped tend and till his mother’s large garden, assisted seasonally in the transplanting of plants at Stutzman’s Greenhouse, and loved to stack small square bales on his uncles’ hay wagons. In midlife, he cut lumber and shingle components at Sturdi-Bilt Storage Barns. His one-liners became legendary with his coworkers and all who knew him.In 1999, realizing his need for a more structured schedule and supervision, his parents placed him at Faith Mission Home, a faith-based residential training program in Virginia for the developmentally disabled. He lived with three other men and their supervisors on a small farm for sixteen years. He experienced a good life under the patient and sacrificial tutelage of his Christian mentors. By 2016, due to his declining mobility and verbal communication, Linford needed to find a new home. So, at age 62 he moved to Mennonite Friendship Communities, where the staff has compassionately and faithfully served him. Staff members will long remember his big smiles and ready hugs, along with his limited communication punctuated by frequent admonitions to “Hurry up” and other catchphrases.The family acknowledges and thanks the care team members of Faith Mission Home, Mennonite Friendship Communities, and Gentiva Hospice (formerly Kindred) for the genuine friendship and devoted service they freely gave us and our loved one.Linford is survived by: his three brothers: Gary Miller (Rosanna) and Allen Miller, Hutchinson, Wilbur Miller (Shirley), Columbus, OH; two nieces and seven nephews; sixteen grandnieces and fourteen grandnephews.Preceding him in death were his parents and fourteen aunts and uncles.A visitation will be held from 5-7:30 p.m. Saturday, November 19, 2022, at Center AM Church, 7611 W. Morgan Ave., Hutchinson. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, November 20, 2022, at the church. The funeral service will be live-streamed (follow the link at centeramishmennonite.org). Burial will follow at the West Center Cemetery. After the burial, everyone is invited back to the church for a meal.

Linford James Miller  |1953-2022|  

Ambrose A. Schneweis, 97, formerly of Hutchinson, passed away November 17, 2022, at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Hospital, Wichita, KS.&nbsp; He was born July 28, 1925, in Odin, to August A. Schneweis and Martha (Penka) Schneweis.

On May 6, 1946, Ambrose married Alice Boor, at the Holy Family Church in Odin.&nbsp; They shared over 73 years of marriage, prior to her death on July 9, 2019.&nbsp; Following their marriage, they began farming in the LaCrosse, area and stayed for six years.&nbsp; They moved to the Pretty Prairie, area, where the ground that they farmed was purchased to become part of what is now known as Cheney Lake.&nbsp; The next move was to Holyrood, and then in 1966, the final move was to Hutchinson.&nbsp; Ambrose went to work as a machinist at Eaton Corporation, formerly Cessna Fluid Power Division, retiring in 1988 with 22 years of service.&nbsp; He was a member of St. Teresa Catholic Church, Hutchinson, since 1966.

He enjoyed gardening and playing cards.&nbsp; Ambrose’s greatest joy was spending time with his family.&nbsp;

Ambrose is survived by:&nbsp; his daughters, Elaine (Keith) Myers of Hutchinson, Linda Schneweis of Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Lori (Tracy) Clem of Wichita; three grandchildren; one step-grandson; two great-grandchildren; and brother, Arthur Schneweis.

He was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents; wife; infant son, Ambrose Schneweis, Jr.; and four sisters.

Parish Rosary will be 9:30 a.m. Saturday, November 26, 2022, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Teresa Catholic Church, 211 E. 5th Avenue, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Both services will be officiated by Father Matt Glazier.&nbsp; Burial will be 2:30 p.m. Saturday, November 26, 2022, at the LaCrosse City Cemetery, LaCrosse, with Father Stephen Dabanka officiating.&nbsp; Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, November 25, 2022, with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

Ambrose A. Schneweis, 97, formerly of Hutchinson, passed away November 17, 2022, at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Hospital, Wichita, KS.&nbsp; He was born July 28, 1925, in Odin, to August A. Schneweis and Martha (Penka) Schneweis.On May 6, 1946, Ambrose married Alice Boor, at the Holy Family Church in Odin.&nbsp; They shared over 73 years of marriage, prior to her death on July 9, 2019.&nbsp; Following their marriage, they began farming in the LaCrosse, area and stayed for six years.&nbsp; They moved to the Pretty Prairie, area, where the ground that they farmed was purchased to become part of what is now known as Cheney Lake.&nbsp; The next move was to Holyrood, and then in 1966, the final move was to Hutchinson.&nbsp; Ambrose went to work as a machinist at Eaton Corporation, formerly Cessna Fluid Power Division, retiring in 1988 with 22 years of service.&nbsp; He was a member of St. Teresa Catholic Church, Hutchinson, since 1966.He enjoyed gardening and playing cards.&nbsp; Ambrose’s greatest joy was spending time with his family.&nbsp;Ambrose is survived by:&nbsp; his daughters, Elaine (Keith) Myers of Hutchinson, Linda Schneweis of Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Lori (Tracy) Clem of Wichita; three grandchildren; one step-grandson; two great-grandchildren; and brother, Arthur Schneweis.He was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his parents; wife; infant son, Ambrose Schneweis, Jr.; and four sisters.Parish Rosary will be 9:30 a.m. Saturday, November 26, 2022, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Teresa Catholic Church, 211 E. 5th Avenue, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Both services will be officiated by Father Matt Glazier.&nbsp; Burial will be 2:30 p.m. Saturday, November 26, 2022, at the LaCrosse City Cemetery, LaCrosse, with Father Stephen Dabanka officiating.&nbsp; Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, November 25, 2022, with the family present from 5 to 7 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

Ambrose A. Schneweis  |1925-2022|  

Jerry Ray Clarke, 79, passed away November 15, 2022, at his home.&nbsp; He was born December 31, 1942, in Hutchinson, to David James Clarke and Velma Marie (Corkins) Clarke.

Jerry was a 1961 graduate of Ellinwood High School, Ellinwood.&nbsp; He also graduated from Salt City Business College, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Jerry served in the United States Army Reserves.&nbsp; He was employed for many years as an accountant at Consolidated Manufacturing Inc., Hutchinson.&nbsp; Jerry was a longtime member of Eastwood Church of Christ, Hutchinson.

He enjoyed fishing and playing cards with a card group comprised of family friends.&nbsp; Jerry and his wife, Anita, liked to travel, and frequently visited Hawaii and Branson, MO.&nbsp; They even participated in a church mission work trip to Antiqua.&nbsp; He loved to dress up as Santa Claus and Anita as Mrs. Claus to bring many hours of entertainment for his family and for families of the church.

On May 14, 1963, Jerry married Anita Rae Fletcher, at the South Hutchinson United Methodist Church.&nbsp; They shared over 59 years of marriage.

He is survived by:&nbsp; his wife, Anita Clarke of Hutchinson; sisters, Marilyn (Delmer Thibault) Sherman of Hays, and Darlene Oglesbee of Palatka, FL; and numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces.

Jerry was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his maternal and paternal grandparents; parents; and three brothers-in-law.

Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at Eastwood Church of Christ, 2500 N. Plum, Hutchinson, with Wayne DeWindt officiating.&nbsp; Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; Cremation has taken place.

Jerry Ray Clarke, 79, passed away November 15, 2022, at his home.&nbsp; He was born December 31, 1942, in Hutchinson, to David James Clarke and Velma Marie (Corkins) Clarke.Jerry was a 1961 graduate of Ellinwood High School, Ellinwood.&nbsp; He also graduated from Salt City Business College, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Jerry served in the United States Army Reserves.&nbsp; He was employed for many years as an accountant at Consolidated Manufacturing Inc., Hutchinson.&nbsp; Jerry was a longtime member of Eastwood Church of Christ, Hutchinson.He enjoyed fishing and playing cards with a card group comprised of family friends.&nbsp; Jerry and his wife, Anita, liked to travel, and frequently visited Hawaii and Branson, MO.&nbsp; They even participated in a church mission work trip to Antiqua.&nbsp; He loved to dress up as Santa Claus and Anita as Mrs. Claus to bring many hours of entertainment for his family and for families of the church.On May 14, 1963, Jerry married Anita Rae Fletcher, at the South Hutchinson United Methodist Church.&nbsp; They shared over 59 years of marriage.He is survived by:&nbsp; his wife, Anita Clarke of Hutchinson; sisters, Marilyn (Delmer Thibault) Sherman of Hays, and Darlene Oglesbee of Palatka, FL; and numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces.Jerry was preceded in death by:&nbsp; his maternal and paternal grandparents; parents; and three brothers-in-law.Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at Eastwood Church of Christ, 2500 N. Plum, Hutchinson, with Wayne DeWindt officiating.&nbsp; Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; Cremation has taken place.

Jerry Ray Clarke  |1942-2022|  

Lee’s life began on March 7, 1941, on the farm in Lincolnville.  He is the only child of Louis Henry Kaiser and Johanna (Brunner) Kaiser. 

 Lee was a graduate of Centre High School in their first graduating class of 1959.  He was a baptized and confirmed member of the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lincolnville and married his wife Ruth Lais at the church on June 20, 1969. 

 They made their home on the farm in Lincolnville, making the young couple the fourth generation of Kaisers to live on the land.  In the earlier years, he worked with a custom cutting crew and in the oil fields.  In the later years he worked for over 10 years with the Range and Ground Maintenance at Fort Riley.  He served his church in many positions and several roles over the years.  As well as helping in the community as needed “He never knew a stranger”.  Throughout his life, his passions for farming and ranching as a steward of the land was shared with his kids and grandkids. 

 His loving family includes his wife of 53 years, Ruth Kaiser of Lincolnville, David (Shelley) Kaiser of Marion and Angela (Chad) Schmidt of Overland Park; grandchildren Michael (Allie) Kaiser, Stephen (Penelope) Kaiser, Mickayla (Kendall) Harding, Hayleigh Mendoza, Blake Kaiser, Claiborn Schmidt and Bodie Schmidt; and seven great grandchildren.  Lee passed away on Saturday November 19, 2022, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita.  He is preceded in death by his parents. 

 Lee’s family will gather with friends on Friday November 25th from 6-8 p.m. at Yazel Megli Funeral Home, Marion.  His funeral service will be held on Saturday November 26th at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Lincolnville led by Pastor Alan Stalnaker.  Lee will be laid to rest in Lincolnville Cemetery.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lee’s life began on March 7, 1941, on the farm in Lincolnville. He is the only child of Louis Henry Kaiser and Johanna (Brunner) Kaiser. Lee was a graduate of Centre High School in their first graduating class of 1959. He was a baptized and confirmed member of the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lincolnville and married his wife Ruth Lais at the church on June 20, 1969. They made their home on the farm in Lincolnville, making the young couple the fourth generation of Kaisers to live on the land. In the earlier years, he worked with a custom cutting crew and in the oil fields. In the later years he worked for over 10 years with the Range and Ground Maintenance at Fort Riley. He served his church in many positions and several roles over the years. As well as helping in the community as needed “He never knew a stranger”. Throughout his life, his passions for farming and ranching as a steward of the land was shared with his kids and grandkids. His loving family includes his wife of 53 years, Ruth Kaiser of Lincolnville, David (Shelley) Kaiser of Marion and Angela (Chad) Schmidt of Overland Park; grandchildren Michael (Allie) Kaiser, Stephen (Penelope) Kaiser, Mickayla (Kendall) Harding, Hayleigh Mendoza, Blake Kaiser, Claiborn Schmidt and Bodie Schmidt; and seven great grandchildren. Lee passed away on Saturday November 19, 2022, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. He is preceded in death by his parents. Lee’s family will gather with friends on Friday November 25th from 6-8 p.m. at Yazel Megli Funeral Home, Marion. His funeral service will be held on Saturday November 26th at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Lincolnville led by Pastor Alan Stalnaker. Lee will be laid to rest in Lincolnville Cemetery.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Louis Lee Kaiser  |1941-2022|  

Dwayne was born on August 22, 1943, and in a few days adopted by his beloved parents, Herbert and Anna Claassen, in Hillsboro. He grew up on the farm one-and-a-half miles from the Ebenfeld Mennonite Brethren Church and schoolhouse, attending that schoolhouse through the eighth grade. He then went to Hillsboro High School and two years at Tabor College. Literature was his favorite college class.

As a child, one day as he and his dad drove in the garage, he told his dad that he wanted to be saved, so there with his dad he gave his life to Christ. He was baptized at the age of twelve.

Among activities that Dwayne enjoyed were water skiing, working on race car number 87 at 81 Speedway, flying his private airplanes, and driving semi-truck coast to coast. Most recently, in the mornings he enjoyed having coffee with friends at Wendy's. In the afternoons, he loved driving around the country checking fields and crops.

Dwayne married Diane Janzen in 1966. Together they had three children—Larry Royce in 1970, Russell Dwayne in 1972 and Lori Ann in 1975. A joy in his life was seeing Lori marry Robert Quicke who together gave him two grandchildren, Elliot Michael and Sophie Grace, and seeing Russ marry Chandelle Boger who together gave him two grandsons, Samuel Dwayne and Dellen Russell.

A major event in his life was meeting his birth mother when he was fifty years old, and spending time with her monthly during the last seven years of her life.

The prelude today was by one of Dwayne's favorite singers, Jimmy Fortune. Permission to use his album was requested and received. He also seldom missed the Saturday evening Gaither program on TV. The Statler Brothers were also a favorite. He listened to a daily end-times hour on his computer.

He was predeceased by his infant son, Larry Royce, his parents Herb and Anna, a sister-in-law Mary Lou Nickel, and a brother-in-law Roger Janzen.

Dwayne will be missed by his family and friends. The family thanks you for being here today.

Celebration of Life 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 21, 2022 at The Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church in Hillsboro officiated by Pastor Jeremy Matlock. &nbsp;You are invited to have lunch in the fellowship hall immediately after the service. The plan is to leave the church at 1 o'clock for burial at the Ebenfeld Cemetery rural Hillsboro. &nbsp;

Dwayne was born on August 22, 1943, and in a few days adopted by his beloved parents, Herbert and Anna Claassen, in Hillsboro. He grew up on the farm one-and-a-half miles from the Ebenfeld Mennonite Brethren Church and schoolhouse, attending that schoolhouse through the eighth grade. He then went to Hillsboro High School and two years at Tabor College. Literature was his favorite college class.As a child, one day as he and his dad drove in the garage, he told his dad that he wanted to be saved, so there with his dad he gave his life to Christ. He was baptized at the age of twelve.Among activities that Dwayne enjoyed were water skiing, working on race car number 87 at 81 Speedway, flying his private airplanes, and driving semi-truck coast to coast. Most recently, in the mornings he enjoyed having coffee with friends at Wendy's. In the afternoons, he loved driving around the country checking fields and crops.Dwayne married Diane Janzen in 1966. Together they had three children—Larry Royce in 1970, Russell Dwayne in 1972 and Lori Ann in 1975. A joy in his life was seeing Lori marry Robert Quicke who together gave him two grandchildren, Elliot Michael and Sophie Grace, and seeing Russ marry Chandelle Boger who together gave him two grandsons, Samuel Dwayne and Dellen Russell.A major event in his life was meeting his birth mother when he was fifty years old, and spending time with her monthly during the last seven years of her life.The prelude today was by one of Dwayne's favorite singers, Jimmy Fortune. Permission to use his album was requested and received. He also seldom missed the Saturday evening Gaither program on TV. The Statler Brothers were also a favorite. He listened to a daily end-times hour on his computer.He was predeceased by his infant son, Larry Royce, his parents Herb and Anna, a sister-in-law Mary Lou Nickel, and a brother-in-law Roger Janzen.Dwayne will be missed by his family and friends. The family thanks you for being here today.Celebration of Life 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 21, 2022 at The Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church in Hillsboro officiated by Pastor Jeremy Matlock. &nbsp;You are invited to have lunch in the fellowship hall immediately after the service. The plan is to leave the church at 1 o'clock for burial at the Ebenfeld Cemetery rural Hillsboro. &nbsp;

Dwayne Herbert Claassen  |1943-2022|  

Longtime Stratton, Colorado, resident Penni Lynn Fox passed away on 
November 16, 2022, at her home in Stratton, CO. She was 59 years old.

Penni was born on February 25, 1963, in Burlington, CO to Jim and Mary
 (Wright) Havens. She was the only child born to this union.

Penni attended school at Stratton schools, graduating in 1981.

On May 6, 1989, Penni married the love of her life Donald Joseph Fox 
in Stratton, CO at St. Charles Catholic church. To this union two 
children were born, Sara and Morgan.

Penni’s love for her family was evident to all those who knew her. 
Having a servant’s heart, she served her family and friends to the best 
of her ability, always putting others before herself.

Another of Penni’s loves was cooking and baking. She always had a 
homemade meal, or a baked good for her family. Instilling a love for 
cooking in both of her daughters, as well as her grandsons.

Penni was preceded in death by her parents, in laws Darrel and Cecilia Fox, and brother Edward Parker III.

She is survived by her husband Don Fox of Stratton, son Ryan Fox of 
Cowley County, CO, daughters Sara (Justin) Sloan of Colby, KS, and 
Morgan (Steve) Kappenmann of Hutchinson, KS. She is also survived by her
 four grandsons. Emerson Sloan, Lucas Kappenmann, Landry Kappenmann and 
Lawson Kappenmann, sister in law DeAnna (W.C.) Ely of Stratton, 
brother-in-law Darren Fox of Stratton, and sister-in-law Heidi Fox of 
Johnstown, CO. Nephews Jesse (Holly) Seelhoff of Flemming CO, Luke 
(Tiffany) Seelhoff of St. George, UT, and niece Katie Seelhoff of 
Evergreen, CO, along numerous cousins.

Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Penni-Fox">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668803935146.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Longtime Stratton, Colorado, resident Penni Lynn Fox passed away on 
November 16, 2022, at her home in Stratton, CO. She was 59 years old.Penni was born on February 25, 1963, in Burlington, CO to Jim and Mary
 (Wright) Havens. She was the only child born to this union.Penni attended school at Stratton schools, graduating in 1981.On May 6, 1989, Penni married the love of her life Donald Joseph Fox 
in Stratton, CO at St. Charles Catholic church. To this union two 
children were born, Sara and Morgan.Penni’s love for her family was evident to all those who knew her. 
Having a servant’s heart, she served her family and friends to the best 
of her ability, always putting others before herself.Another of Penni’s loves was cooking and baking. She always had a 
homemade meal, or a baked good for her family. Instilling a love for 
cooking in both of her daughters, as well as her grandsons.Penni was preceded in death by her parents, in laws Darrel and Cecilia Fox, and brother Edward Parker III.She is survived by her husband Don Fox of Stratton, son Ryan Fox of 
Cowley County, CO, daughters Sara (Justin) Sloan of Colby, KS, and 
Morgan (Steve) Kappenmann of Hutchinson, KS. She is also survived by her
 four grandsons. Emerson Sloan, Lucas Kappenmann, Landry Kappenmann and 
Lawson Kappenmann, sister in law DeAnna (W.C.) Ely of Stratton, 
brother-in-law Darren Fox of Stratton, and sister-in-law Heidi Fox of 
Johnstown, CO. Nephews Jesse (Holly) Seelhoff of Flemming CO, Luke 
(Tiffany) Seelhoff of St. George, UT, and niece Katie Seelhoff of 
Evergreen, CO, along numerous cousins.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Penni-Fox">HERE</a> for service details.

Penni Lynn Fox

Donald Wayne Miller, 68, of Lake City, died Monday November 14, 2022 at his residence. He was born on November 30, 1953 in Medicine Lodge, the son of Harold R. Miller and Clara Etta (Saddler) Miller. Donald enjoyed fishing, playing board games and spending time with his family. Surviving are one niece, Michelle (Michael) Brown and family of Bel Aire, and one nephew, Corey Turner and family of Medicine Lodge. Donald was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Doris Miller and Janice Kay Turner. Cremation has taken place. A memorial graveside service will be held at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Wayne Miller, 68, of Lake City, died Monday November 14, 2022 at his residence. He was born on November 30, 1953 in Medicine Lodge, the son of Harold R. Miller and Clara Etta (Saddler) Miller. Donald enjoyed fishing, playing board games and spending time with his family. Surviving are one niece, Michelle (Michael) Brown and family of Bel Aire, and one nephew, Corey Turner and family of Medicine Lodge. Donald was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Doris Miller and Janice Kay Turner. Cremation has taken place. A memorial graveside service will be held at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Wayne Miller  |1953-2022|  

Deanna “Dee” Kelsheimer, age 70, died on October 4th, 2022 in Newton Kansas at NMC.

Deanna Kelsheimer is survived by her Mother, Jeanne E Holliday, of Kingman KS; Step sister, Denise Butterfield, of Topeka, Step Brother, Dallas Holliday of Colorado, her Daughter, Roxane C. Johns; her Son, Brian D Kelsheimer and his wife Willa, and her 2 grandchildren, Roxandra and Izak Grob, of Newton, she is preceded in death by her Husband, Dennis E Kelsheimer, of Newton; her Sister, Carole Saylor, of Bentley; her Dad, Norman Spore, and her stepdad, Dennis Holliday, of Kingman.

Deanna Kelsheimer was born on December 12th, 1951 to parents Jeanne and Norman. She graduated from Newton High School in 1969, and went on to graduate from business school. Deanna was an amazing person and a loving Mother. 

She married Dennis Kelsheimer August 3rd, 1978 in Kingman, and the couple had two children together, not including Timothy, who was a stillborn.

Deanna enjoyed drawing and doing crafts in her free time.

Family will be having a private graveside ceremony. Donations for funeral expense can be sent to Petersen Family Funeral Home, 215 N. Main St., Newton, Kansas 67114.

Deanna “Dee” Kelsheimer, age 70, died on October 4th, 2022 in Newton Kansas at NMC.Deanna Kelsheimer is survived by her Mother, Jeanne E Holliday, of Kingman KS; Step sister, Denise Butterfield, of Topeka, Step Brother, Dallas Holliday of Colorado, her Daughter, Roxane C. Johns; her Son, Brian D Kelsheimer and his wife Willa, and her 2 grandchildren, Roxandra and Izak Grob, of Newton, she is preceded in death by her Husband, Dennis E Kelsheimer, of Newton; her Sister, Carole Saylor, of Bentley; her Dad, Norman Spore, and her stepdad, Dennis Holliday, of Kingman.Deanna Kelsheimer was born on December 12th, 1951 to parents Jeanne and Norman. She graduated from Newton High School in 1969, and went on to graduate from business school. Deanna was an amazing person and a loving Mother. She married Dennis Kelsheimer August 3rd, 1978 in Kingman, and the couple had two children together, not including Timothy, who was a stillborn.Deanna enjoyed drawing and doing crafts in her free time.Family will be having a private graveside ceremony. Donations for funeral expense can be sent to Petersen Family Funeral Home, 215 N. Main St., Newton, Kansas 67114.

Deanna “Dee” Kelsheimer  |2022|  

On January 27, 1946, Wanda was united in marriage with Charles Roger Plautz in Frederick. He preceded her in death on October 28, 2015. She is also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Harry Charles Kitchen; and two sisters, Arla Mae Hoelscher and Joyce Brack. Wanda is survived by Michael Stout of Bushton, Brian and Kristen Stout of Ellinwood, David and Pam Hoelscher of Bushton, KS, Darrel and Susie Hoelscher of Bushton, Brenda and Dwayne Wagner of Great Bend, Donna Stout of Great Bend, Sharon Smith of Raymond, Gary and Betty Smith of Hutchinson, Carolyn Stout of Scottsdale, AZ, Douglas Stout of Great Bend, Cass Stout of Haven, Laurie and Scott Beck of Chase, Amy and Matt Hurley of Bushton, Lesley and Karl Matlock of Burrton, Bambie and Cory Steward of Sterling, Kevin Stout of Prescott, AZ, Samantha Stout of Phoenix, AZ; and many additional nieces and nephews. 

Funeral service will be at 10:00 A.M., Monday, November 21, 2022, at Salem United Methodist Church, with Pastor Tom Reazin officiating. Burial will follow in the Salem-Friedhof Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 until 5:00 P.M., Sunday, November 20, 2022, at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons, with family present. Memorials may be given to the Mustard Seed Fund at Salem United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons.

Wanda Florine Plautz, 95, of Bushton, Kansas, passed away November 17, 2022, at Hospital District #1 of Rice County, Lyons. She was born October 7, 1927, in Frederick, the daughter of Elda and Grace Huckstop Kitchen. Wanda was a lifetime Bushton area resident. She graduated from Bushton High School with the class of 1945. Wanda was a farmwife and once worked at the Rice County Extension Office in Lyons. She was a member of the Salem United Methodist Church, Bushton, United Methodist Women, and a former 4-H teacher. On January 27, 1946, Wanda was united in marriage with Charles Roger Plautz in Frederick. He preceded her in death on October 28, 2015. She is also preceded in death by her parents; brother, Harry Charles Kitchen; and two sisters, Arla Mae Hoelscher and Joyce Brack. Wanda is survived by Michael Stout of Bushton, Brian and Kristen Stout of Ellinwood, David and Pam Hoelscher of Bushton, KS, Darrel and Susie Hoelscher of Bushton, Brenda and Dwayne Wagner of Great Bend, Donna Stout of Great Bend, Sharon Smith of Raymond, Gary and Betty Smith of Hutchinson, Carolyn Stout of Scottsdale, AZ, Douglas Stout of Great Bend, Cass Stout of Haven, Laurie and Scott Beck of Chase, Amy and Matt Hurley of Bushton, Lesley and Karl Matlock of Burrton, Bambie and Cory Steward of Sterling, Kevin Stout of Prescott, AZ, Samantha Stout of Phoenix, AZ; and many additional nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be at 10:00 A.M., Monday, November 21, 2022, at Salem United Methodist Church, with Pastor Tom Reazin officiating. Burial will follow in the Salem-Friedhof Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 until 5:00 P.M., Sunday, November 20, 2022, at Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons, with family present. Memorials may be given to the Mustard Seed Fund at Salem United Methodist Church in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Lyons.

Jeffery Dean Swisher, 67, of McPherson, passed away at 2:21a.m, Monday, July 18th, 2022 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson. Jeffery was born in Council Grove, on January 11, 1955, a son of Stella Marie (Brownell) and Clyde Jason Swisher. He was raised on the family farm which is where he developed his strong work ethic. Jeff attended Wilsey grade school, Wilsey, and graduated from Council Grove High School, Council Grove, in 1974. He was a member of Free Methodist Church in McPherson. Through the years Jeff worked for Archrock as a Safety Coordinator, McPherson. Jeff loved working on cars, remodeling houses, computers, nature photography, traveling and spending time with his friend and family. Jeffery Swisher was united in marriage to Julie Edwards in Council Grove, Kansas. This union was blessed with the birth of two children, Jessica and Jason. He was then united in marriage to Margo Elaine Bonham on Dec. 8, 2016 in McPherson. This union combined with Jessica and Jason was joined by Jeff and Michelle. He is survived by his children, Jason Swisher, of Claremore, Oklahoma and Jeff Parker and his wife Tiffany, of Manhattan; his daughter Michelle Parker, of Parsons, and his sister Cindy Obee and her husband Donald, of Emporia. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren, Wynter, James, Braden, Kylah, Clyde and Layla and four nephews; John, Nathon, Joseph, Colby. Jeff was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Margo Swisher; his daughter, Jessica Swisher and a brother Phil Swisher. A memorial service will be held at the Wilsey Christian Church, Wilsey, Kansas on Friday, November 25, 2022 at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Clarence Sumner will be officiating.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jeffery Dean Swisher, 67, of McPherson, passed away at 2:21a.m, Monday, July 18th, 2022 at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson. Jeffery was born in Council Grove, on January 11, 1955, a son of Stella Marie (Brownell) and Clyde Jason Swisher. He was raised on the family farm which is where he developed his strong work ethic. Jeff attended Wilsey grade school, Wilsey, and graduated from Council Grove High School, Council Grove, in 1974. He was a member of Free Methodist Church in McPherson. Through the years Jeff worked for Archrock as a Safety Coordinator, McPherson. Jeff loved working on cars, remodeling houses, computers, nature photography, traveling and spending time with his friend and family. Jeffery Swisher was united in marriage to Julie Edwards in Council Grove, Kansas. This union was blessed with the birth of two children, Jessica and Jason. He was then united in marriage to Margo Elaine Bonham on Dec. 8, 2016 in McPherson. This union combined with Jessica and Jason was joined by Jeff and Michelle. He is survived by his children, Jason Swisher, of Claremore, Oklahoma and Jeff Parker and his wife Tiffany, of Manhattan; his daughter Michelle Parker, of Parsons, and his sister Cindy Obee and her husband Donald, of Emporia. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren, Wynter, James, Braden, Kylah, Clyde and Layla and four nephews; John, Nathon, Joseph, Colby. Jeff was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Margo Swisher; his daughter, Jessica Swisher and a brother Phil Swisher. A memorial service will be held at the Wilsey Christian Church, Wilsey, Kansas on Friday, November 25, 2022 at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Clarence Sumner will be officiating.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jeffery Dean Swisher  |1955-2022|  

Pearl Lorraine Zerger, 77, of Moundridge, passed away Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. She was born on March 20, 1945 in New Holland, South Dakota, the daughter of Joe J. and Bertha (Bergakker) Maas. She graduated from Corisca High School in South Dakota. Pearl later attended Dordt College in Sioux Center, IA. Pearl was a member of the Moundridge United Methodist Church where she was very active in playing the piano, Sunday school, funeral dinners, financial secretary and UMW treasurer. She was a beautician and operated a shop out of her home called The Hair Shop. Pearl also helped her husband, Harold on the family farm. Pearl was instrumental in aiding her son, Andy, in opening and operating his JMTK Gym in Wichita. She helped with various facets of the business. Pearl was united in marriage to Harold D. “Zerg” Zerger on June 10, 1966 in Moundridge. He preceded her in death on January 25, 2022. She is survived by her son, Andrew J. “Andy” Zerger of Wichita; grandson, Boston Knowles of Wichita; brother, John (Anne) Maas of Lynden, WA; sister, Marie VandenHoek of Jenison, MI; and two sisters-in-law, Helen Krehbiel Reed of Hood River, OR, and Tillie Zerger of Moundridge. Pearl was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister, Wilma Maas; three brothers-in-law, Quintin VandenHoek, Marvin Zerger and Eldon Zerger; and two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Miller and Arlene Thiesen.

Family will greet friends at 5 p.m., Monday, November 21, 2022 at Moundridge United Methodist Church, with a Celebration of Life to immediately follow at 6 p.m. at the church. Cremation is planned following the service with a private family inurnment at a later date at Mound Township Cemetery.

Pearl Lorraine Zerger, 77, of Moundridge, passed away Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. She was born on March 20, 1945 in New Holland, South Dakota, the daughter of Joe J. and Bertha (Bergakker) Maas. She graduated from Corisca High School in South Dakota. Pearl later attended Dordt College in Sioux Center, IA. Pearl was a member of the Moundridge United Methodist Church where she was very active in playing the piano, Sunday school, funeral dinners, financial secretary and UMW treasurer. She was a beautician and operated a shop out of her home called The Hair Shop. Pearl also helped her husband, Harold on the family farm. Pearl was instrumental in aiding her son, Andy, in opening and operating his JMTK Gym in Wichita. She helped with various facets of the business. Pearl was united in marriage to Harold D. “Zerg” Zerger on June 10, 1966 in Moundridge. He preceded her in death on January 25, 2022. She is survived by her son, Andrew J. “Andy” Zerger of Wichita; grandson, Boston Knowles of Wichita; brother, John (Anne) Maas of Lynden, WA; sister, Marie VandenHoek of Jenison, MI; and two sisters-in-law, Helen Krehbiel Reed of Hood River, OR, and Tillie Zerger of Moundridge. Pearl was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister, Wilma Maas; three brothers-in-law, Quintin VandenHoek, Marvin Zerger and Eldon Zerger; and two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Miller and Arlene Thiesen. Family will greet friends at 5 p.m., Monday, November 21, 2022 at Moundridge United Methodist Church, with a Celebration of Life to immediately follow at 6 p.m. at the church. Cremation is planned following the service with a private family inurnment at a later date at Mound Township Cemetery.

Pearl Lorraine Zerger  |1945-2022|  

Jess Warren Robinson (Sunrise&nbsp;February 21, 1941-&nbsp;Sunset&nbsp;November 12, 2022)

Warren was the second child born from the union of Gerald Walter Robinson and Frances Waller Robinson Tomlin of Wichita. He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1959 and attended Hutchinson Junior College. Following in the footsteps of his father, Gerald (serving 25 years), and grandfather, Walter (serving 43 years), Warren became a firefighter, totaling over 100 years of a Robinson in Kansas firefighting service. He distinguished himself as not only the first Black firefighter in Hutchinson, but excelled to the rank of Captain (also the first Black), before retiring with 33 years of active service. Throughout those years Warren was a proud member of the Firefighter’s Union, IAAF Local 179. He also was passionate about researching his family’s genealogy, especially focusing on and proud of his Buffalo Soldier ancestry, and loved fishing.

Warren and his wife, Geneva, enjoyed more than 60 years of love and friendship together. They owned and operated their own drapery business, Robinson Interiors, for 40 years.

He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Robinson; mother, Frances Tomlin; sons, Yancy Robinson, Anthony Robinson; and nephew, John Evers Robinson.

Warren is survived by his wife, Geneva; son Teddy Robinson (Lisa) of Houston, TX; daughters, Shari Robinson, Rhea Robinson; 8 grandchildren, Jeremy, Jasmin, Monique, Dominique, Deion, Leslie, Lance, and very special granddaughter, Abriel;&nbsp; 7 great-grand-children; siblings, Gerry Robinson (Paula) of New York, Victor Waters (Cheryl), Quita Waters of Altadena, California, Keith Robinson (Patsy) of Houston, TX; 6 nephews and nieces; many extended family members; and a countless number of “adopted” children who loved him deeply.

Memorial service will be 1 p.m. Monday, November 28, 2022, at Elliott Chapel. Inurnment of ashes will follow in Fairlawn Burial Park, with honors conducted by the Hutchinson Fire Department.

The service will be livestreamed and the link to view it below will be active beginning at 12:45 p.m. the day of the service

Friends may sign his memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at Elliott Mortuary.

Jess Warren Robinson (Sunrise&nbsp;February 21, 1941-&nbsp;Sunset&nbsp;November 12, 2022)Warren was the second child born from the union of Gerald Walter Robinson and Frances Waller Robinson Tomlin of Wichita. He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1959 and attended Hutchinson Junior College. Following in the footsteps of his father, Gerald (serving 25 years), and grandfather, Walter (serving 43 years), Warren became a firefighter, totaling over 100 years of a Robinson in Kansas firefighting service. He distinguished himself as not only the first Black firefighter in Hutchinson, but excelled to the rank of Captain (also the first Black), before retiring with 33 years of active service. Throughout those years Warren was a proud member of the Firefighter’s Union, IAAF Local 179. He also was passionate about researching his family’s genealogy, especially focusing on and proud of his Buffalo Soldier ancestry, and loved fishing.Warren and his wife, Geneva, enjoyed more than 60 years of love and friendship together. They owned and operated their own drapery business, Robinson Interiors, for 40 years.He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Robinson; mother, Frances Tomlin; sons, Yancy Robinson, Anthony Robinson; and nephew, John Evers Robinson.Warren is survived by his wife, Geneva; son Teddy Robinson (Lisa) of Houston, TX; daughters, Shari Robinson, Rhea Robinson; 8 grandchildren, Jeremy, Jasmin, Monique, Dominique, Deion, Leslie, Lance, and very special granddaughter, Abriel;&nbsp; 7 great-grand-children; siblings, Gerry Robinson (Paula) of New York, Victor Waters (Cheryl), Quita Waters of Altadena, California, Keith Robinson (Patsy) of Houston, TX; 6 nephews and nieces; many extended family members; and a countless number of “adopted” children who loved him deeply.Memorial service will be 1 p.m. Monday, November 28, 2022, at Elliott Chapel. Inurnment of ashes will follow in Fairlawn Burial Park, with honors conducted by the Hutchinson Fire Department.The service will be livestreamed and the link to view it below will be active beginning at 12:45 p.m. the day of the serviceClick here to view the service.Friends may sign his memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily at Elliott Mortuary.

Obituaries