Herman Elbert Jones, III, 81 passed away May 20, 2022 in Goddard.&nbsp; He was born on May 29, 1941.

He leaves behind his wife, Judy Jones, of Hutchinson; 3 children, Stephan Jones, of Larned, Karen Rotts, of Washington State, and Asta Jones, of Minnesota; 2 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Herman was in the United States Army, and he worked at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility for 20 years.&nbsp; He liked to work on crossword puzzles, yard work and sitting on the porch, he also enjoyed watching westerns on the TV and he loved animals.

A viewing will be June 9, 2022 at 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. with a service on June 10, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. at Old Mission-Heritage Funeral Home, 528 North Main Street, Hutchinson, Kansas, burial to follow at Fairlawn Burial Park, 2401 Carey Blvd., Hutchinson, Kansas.

Herman Elbert Jones, III, 81 passed away May 20, 2022 in Goddard.&nbsp; He was born on May 29, 1941.He leaves behind his wife, Judy Jones, of Hutchinson; 3 children, Stephan Jones, of Larned, Karen Rotts, of Washington State, and Asta Jones, of Minnesota; 2 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.Herman was in the United States Army, and he worked at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility for 20 years.&nbsp; He liked to work on crossword puzzles, yard work and sitting on the porch, he also enjoyed watching westerns on the TV and he loved animals.A viewing will be June 9, 2022 at 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. with a service on June 10, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. at Old Mission-Heritage Funeral Home, 528 North Main Street, Hutchinson, Kansas, burial to follow at Fairlawn Burial Park, 2401 Carey Blvd., Hutchinson, Kansas.

Herman Elbert Jones, III  |1941-2022|  

Diana Lynn Chambers, 46, of Hutchinson, died May 26, 2022, at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita. She was born November 15, 1975, in Hutchinson, to Danny and Linda (Beeler) Chambers.

Diana graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1994. She was a stay-at-home mom and loved to spend time with her family. Diana also enjoyed doing various craft projects in her spare time.

She is survived by: daughters, Alyssa Canfield (CJ), Breanna Canfield; son, Nathaniel VanWey; fiancé, Tim VanWey; mother, Linda Chambers; and brother, Danny Chambers Jr, all of Hutchinson.

Diana was preceded in death by: her father, Danny Chambers Sr; grandparents, Donald and Velma Beeler, Hershall and Shirley Chambers.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm Thursday, June 2, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary. Burial will be 10 am Friday, June 3, 2022, in Fairlawn Burial Park.

Diana Lynn Chambers, 46, of Hutchinson, died May 26, 2022, at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita. She was born November 15, 1975, in Hutchinson, to Danny and Linda (Beeler) Chambers.Diana graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1994. She was a stay-at-home mom and loved to spend time with her family. Diana also enjoyed doing various craft projects in her spare time.She is survived by: daughters, Alyssa Canfield (CJ), Breanna Canfield; son, Nathaniel VanWey; fiancé, Tim VanWey; mother, Linda Chambers; and brother, Danny Chambers Jr, all of Hutchinson.Diana was preceded in death by: her father, Danny Chambers Sr; grandparents, Donald and Velma Beeler, Hershall and Shirley Chambers.Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm Thursday, June 2, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary. Burial will be 10 am Friday, June 3, 2022, in Fairlawn Burial Park.

Diana Lynn Chambers  |1975-2022|  

John&nbsp;Grantlin&nbsp;Jackson, aka Motigular the Ancient One, 73, of Nickerson, died May 26, 2022, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was born December 31, 1948, in Wichita, to William and Betty (Flemming) Jackson.&nbsp;

Following high school, John served in the United States Army in Korea during the Vietnam war. He later earned his&nbsp;bachelor’s degree from Friends University. John&nbsp;worked in concrete construction and co-owned Jackson Construction with his brother, Greg. In the 1970s, he and his brother canoed down the Mississippi from the boundary waters in Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.&nbsp;John was an avid reader and was known for his homemade beef jerky.&nbsp;He loved baseball and was a coach to his core. He also loved musical theatre, the harmonica, cruising the country roads in his truck, and adventuring with his kids and grandkids. Above all else, he loved his wife with all his heart and worked tirelessly to create a life of fun and magic for her.&nbsp;

On April 18, 1981, he married Dana Bonham, in Nickerson. They shared 41 years together.&nbsp;

John is survived by: wife, Dana Jackson, Nickerson; son, Jason&nbsp;Rueschhoff&nbsp;(Jennifer), Blue Springs, Missouri; daughter, Amy Ballinger (Rick), Olathe; son, Cody Jackson, Boulder, Colorado; daughter, Kate&nbsp;Singogo&nbsp;(Zika); eight grandchildren; four great-granchildren; sister-in-law, Chris Jackson, Sterling; sisters, Pat Devries (Jason) and Sue&nbsp;Beulke&nbsp;(Dan), Minnesota, Sheri Kim Jackson, Hutchinson; and brother, Tom Taylor, Oregon.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Greg Jackson.&nbsp;

Cremation has taken place and there will be no services at this time.&nbsp;

John&nbsp;Grantlin&nbsp;Jackson, aka Motigular the Ancient One, 73, of Nickerson, died May 26, 2022, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was born December 31, 1948, in Wichita, to William and Betty (Flemming) Jackson.&nbsp;Following high school, John served in the United States Army in Korea during the Vietnam war. He later earned his&nbsp;bachelor’s degree from Friends University. John&nbsp;worked in concrete construction and co-owned Jackson Construction with his brother, Greg. In the 1970s, he and his brother canoed down the Mississippi from the boundary waters in Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.&nbsp;John was an avid reader and was known for his homemade beef jerky.&nbsp;He loved baseball and was a coach to his core. He also loved musical theatre, the harmonica, cruising the country roads in his truck, and adventuring with his kids and grandkids. Above all else, he loved his wife with all his heart and worked tirelessly to create a life of fun and magic for her.&nbsp;On April 18, 1981, he married Dana Bonham, in Nickerson. They shared 41 years together.&nbsp;John is survived by: wife, Dana Jackson, Nickerson; son, Jason&nbsp;Rueschhoff&nbsp;(Jennifer), Blue Springs, Missouri; daughter, Amy Ballinger (Rick), Olathe; son, Cody Jackson, Boulder, Colorado; daughter, Kate&nbsp;Singogo&nbsp;(Zika); eight grandchildren; four great-granchildren; sister-in-law, Chris Jackson, Sterling; sisters, Pat Devries (Jason) and Sue&nbsp;Beulke&nbsp;(Dan), Minnesota, Sheri Kim Jackson, Hutchinson; and brother, Tom Taylor, Oregon.He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Greg Jackson.&nbsp;Cremation has taken place and there will be no services at this time.&nbsp;

John Grantlin Jackson  |1948-2022|  

Kenneth B. Moore was born in Berkeley, California on January 11, 1941, to Lonzo B and Betty Lou Moore. His 9-year-old brother Don welcomed him home.&nbsp; Ken died on May 26, 2022, at the age of 81 years. He is preceded in death by his father, mother, brother, and first wife Nettie.

Ken’s father, Lonzo, died when he was 6 years old but was a guiding influence through his life.&nbsp; Lonzo was a teacher for a college in Berkeley when Pearl Harbor was attacked. Most of Lonzo's students were arrested because they were Japanese. This was the first experience that contributed to Ken’s later call to a ministry with disenfranchised members of society. His family returned to Oklahoma City where Lonzo resumed his former position as an attorney writing laws for the Oklahoma Legislature. Lonzo also co-authored newspaper articles advocating women’s rights, another experience which contributed to Ken’s call to ministry and exposed him to the plight of those in less powerful positions.

After his father’s death, Ken and his family moved to Memphis, Tennessee.&nbsp; He graduated from college in 1963 and felt called to minister to people in need. However, Ken was drafted into the Army in 1963 and spent 2 years as an aide in the Physical Therapy Clinic at Ft. Bragg, NC.&nbsp; Following his years of service, Ken married Nettie Bergman. They had twin sons-- Jonathan Mark and David Matthew. Ken then completed his first master's degree in Old Testament.&nbsp; Following completion of seminary, Ken was called into the ministry of law enforcement. As a law enforcement officer, Ken served 20 years as patrol officer, investigator, undersheriff, sheriff, and chief of police. Additionally, Ken served 17 years as a Special Agent in the Army Reserve Criminal Investigation Command (CID). As appointed Sheriff of Dickinson County, Ken hired the first female patrol deputy for that department. Ken also worked closely with the local domestic violence/sexual assault center and with drug/alcohol counselors to establish an emergency hotline for Dickinson County.

Ken later moved to Hutchinson and taught criminal justice for 15 years.&nbsp; Many of his former students work in the criminal justice system, especially law enforcement. Ken married Dr. Carol Schrock Miller at First Mennonite Church in Hutchinson, KS, and became a stepfather to her three children, Kristine, James, and Katharine.

Following retirement from teaching, Ken worked part-time doing in-home family therapy with families involved in juvenile court through-out southcentral Kansas.&nbsp; He then became Director of Reno County Community Corrections where he helped develop a drug court that continues to serve the community today. Ken continued his work with families as a mediator in Restorative Justice’s family group conferencing with juvenile offenders and their victims in Wichita and Reno County. He also served as a member of the Kansas Advisory Group to the Kansas Juvenile Justice Authority and represented the State of Kansas on the federal Juvenile Justice Committee for the U.S. Justice Department's Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Ken returned to law enforcement in 2013 as Cawker City's law enforcement and code enforcement officer. He retired from his service in 2018.

Ken is survived by his wife Dr. Carol Moore, his children Jonathan (wife Shelly of Abilene, and their daughters – Rachael, (husband Cody, Salina), Alyssa (husband Richie and daughter Nora, Salina), and Katie (Abilene), and David (wife Staci, Little Rock, AK), and stepchildren Kristine (husband Dr. Scott Sullivan, Augusta, and children Zoe and David), James (wife Regina Miller, Wichita, and their children Cameron and Camille), and Dr. Katharine Miller (Las Vegas, NV).

From Ken:&nbsp; I have had the most amazing life. I owe everything wonderful in my story to my God. I have seen God throughout my life. Thank you, my God, for your almost daily showing yourself alive in situations I had limited control over. I felt like Joseph in the Bible, “The Lord was with him and the Lord blessed everything he did.”&nbsp; Genesis 39:3.&nbsp; Shalom, Salaam, and Peace to all.

Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at First Mennonite Church, 52 Rambler Road, Hutchinson, with Pastors Tonya Wenger and Jim Unruh officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the church columbarium.&nbsp; Military honors will be conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard.&nbsp; Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday at Elliott Mortuary.

Kenneth B. Moore was born in Berkeley, California on January 11, 1941, to Lonzo B and Betty Lou Moore. His 9-year-old brother Don welcomed him home.&nbsp; Ken died on May 26, 2022, at the age of 81 years. He is preceded in death by his father, mother, brother, and first wife Nettie.Ken’s father, Lonzo, died when he was 6 years old but was a guiding influence through his life.&nbsp; Lonzo was a teacher for a college in Berkeley when Pearl Harbor was attacked. Most of Lonzo's students were arrested because they were Japanese. This was the first experience that contributed to Ken’s later call to a ministry with disenfranchised members of society. His family returned to Oklahoma City where Lonzo resumed his former position as an attorney writing laws for the Oklahoma Legislature. Lonzo also co-authored newspaper articles advocating women’s rights, another experience which contributed to Ken’s call to ministry and exposed him to the plight of those in less powerful positions.After his father’s death, Ken and his family moved to Memphis, Tennessee.&nbsp; He graduated from college in 1963 and felt called to minister to people in need. However, Ken was drafted into the Army in 1963 and spent 2 years as an aide in the Physical Therapy Clinic at Ft. Bragg, NC.&nbsp; Following his years of service, Ken married Nettie Bergman. They had twin sons-- Jonathan Mark and David Matthew. Ken then completed his first master's degree in Old Testament.&nbsp; Following completion of seminary, Ken was called into the ministry of law enforcement. As a law enforcement officer, Ken served 20 years as patrol officer, investigator, undersheriff, sheriff, and chief of police. Additionally, Ken served 17 years as a Special Agent in the Army Reserve Criminal Investigation Command (CID). As appointed Sheriff of Dickinson County, Ken hired the first female patrol deputy for that department. Ken also worked closely with the local domestic violence/sexual assault center and with drug/alcohol counselors to establish an emergency hotline for Dickinson County.Ken later moved to Hutchinson and taught criminal justice for 15 years.&nbsp; Many of his former students work in the criminal justice system, especially law enforcement. Ken married Dr. Carol Schrock Miller at First Mennonite Church in Hutchinson, KS, and became a stepfather to her three children, Kristine, James, and Katharine.Following retirement from teaching, Ken worked part-time doing in-home family therapy with families involved in juvenile court through-out southcentral Kansas.&nbsp; He then became Director of Reno County Community Corrections where he helped develop a drug court that continues to serve the community today. Ken continued his work with families as a mediator in Restorative Justice’s family group conferencing with juvenile offenders and their victims in Wichita and Reno County. He also served as a member of the Kansas Advisory Group to the Kansas Juvenile Justice Authority and represented the State of Kansas on the federal Juvenile Justice Committee for the U.S. Justice Department's Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Ken returned to law enforcement in 2013 as Cawker City's law enforcement and code enforcement officer. He retired from his service in 2018.Ken is survived by his wife Dr. Carol Moore, his children Jonathan (wife Shelly of Abilene, and their daughters – Rachael, (husband Cody, Salina), Alyssa (husband Richie and daughter Nora, Salina), and Katie (Abilene), and David (wife Staci, Little Rock, AK), and stepchildren Kristine (husband Dr. Scott Sullivan, Augusta, and children Zoe and David), James (wife Regina Miller, Wichita, and their children Cameron and Camille), and Dr. Katharine Miller (Las Vegas, NV).From Ken:&nbsp; I have had the most amazing life. I owe everything wonderful in my story to my God. I have seen God throughout my life. Thank you, my God, for your almost daily showing yourself alive in situations I had limited control over. I felt like Joseph in the Bible, “The Lord was with him and the Lord blessed everything he did.”&nbsp; Genesis 39:3.&nbsp; Shalom, Salaam, and Peace to all.Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at First Mennonite Church, 52 Rambler Road, Hutchinson, with Pastors Tonya Wenger and Jim Unruh officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the church columbarium.&nbsp; Military honors will be conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard.&nbsp; Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday at Elliott Mortuary.

Kenneth B. Moore  |1941-2022|  

Paul Arthur Friesen, age 98, died May 30, 2022 at the Schowalter Villa in Hesston.&nbsp; He was born September 10, 1923 at Bethel Deaconess Hospital in Newton; the 9th child and 5th son of Peter Abram Friesen and the first child of the union of Peter Abram Friesen and Florence Cooprider Friesen.&nbsp;

 He was preceded in death by his wife Wilma Wenger Friesen and by 4 half sisters, 4 half brothers, one sister, a son in law Stanley Roth, and daughters in law Jane Friesen and Kathleen Friesen.&nbsp; Survivors include his children;&nbsp; Kelvin Friesen (Karen) of Archbold, OH; Janice Roth West (Tom) of Wichita; Eric (Wanda) of Cimarron; Gregg (Joanna) of Newton; Jon (Kristeen) of North Newton; Jennifer LeFevre (Dennis) of Woodland Park, CO along with 12 grandchildren and six great grandchildren.&nbsp;

At age 3 months Paul traveled with his family by ship from New York to Bombay, India and from there by train to Central India where his parents served as missionaries with the Mennonite Church; his mother a physician and his father an evangelist.&nbsp; His early years were spent playing with his younger sister (Grace) and children from the village of Sankra in the Central Provinces where the family lived.&nbsp; At age 5 he began school in Landoor (U.P India) at Woodstock School in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains.&nbsp; He recalled being capable of speaking in English, Hindi (including the local Chitisgarri dialect from where he grew up), and Urdu.&nbsp; While he initially dreaded boarding school, it was that setting that gave him a peer group with diverse interests and, up to his death, he retained a fondness for the school and its mountainous setting. &nbsp; In the early 30’s the family returned to the states for two years with one year in Iowa and one in Chicago.&nbsp; In the end, the return to India was a welcome relief. &nbsp; His time in India left Paul with a bounty of stories of snakes, leopards, tigers, and long travels by bike or train.&nbsp; It was not unusual for him to bike 30 to 40 miles on dusty roads to visit friends, hike in the mountains, or to swim in the headwaters of the Ganges.&nbsp; It was perhaps that setting and those experiences that led him to develop an ability to delight others with stories that held the attention of his children and others.&nbsp; The family returned to the states in 1941.

Once back in the United States, Paul attended Hesston Academy and College where he met Wilma Wenger of Wellman, IA.&nbsp; They were married after he graduated from Goshen College where he completed a Bachelors of Theology degree.&nbsp; Together he and Wilma worked in church planting in Highway Village, IL and Sterling, IL where their first two children were born.&nbsp; A call from Hesston College led to a career change when the college recruited Paul to develop an art program for the college.&nbsp; That prompted further education and an eventual MFA from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; His teaching career included work at both Bethel and Hesston Colleges where he focused on ceramics and sculpture.&nbsp; He continued to preach and through his life worked in various roles within the church.&nbsp; His sermons were remembered as much for their stories as for their theological content. &nbsp; Paul saw himself first as a pastor and his art work often embodied elements of his faith. Following retirement Paul worked in his studio doing ceramics and working with both wood and stone to create works of art.&nbsp; His final commissioned sculpture piece was completed in his 97th year and his final work of ceramics, a burial urn for a close college friend, at age 98.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition to his family, Paul’s passions included teaching, gardening, a love of Indian food, and travel.&nbsp; With his family of six children he and Wilma camped from Idaho to Virginia.&nbsp; He instilled in his children a cooperative and congenial sense of family that continues to this day.&nbsp; Paul was passionate about life.&nbsp; While his legacy includes a wealth of art work, both publicly and privately held, his greatest legacy lives in the lives of his family and in the students he taught and mentored over a long and productive life.&nbsp; This world, it can be said, is a better place because of him.&nbsp; Interment will be at Eastlawn Cemetery in rural Harvey County.&nbsp; Services at the Hesston Mennonite Church are pending.

Paul Arthur Friesen, age 98, died May 30, 2022 at the Schowalter Villa in Hesston.&nbsp; He was born September 10, 1923 at Bethel Deaconess Hospital in Newton; the 9th child and 5th son of Peter Abram Friesen and the first child of the union of Peter Abram Friesen and Florence Cooprider Friesen.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his wife Wilma Wenger Friesen and by 4 half sisters, 4 half brothers, one sister, a son in law Stanley Roth, and daughters in law Jane Friesen and Kathleen Friesen.&nbsp; Survivors include his children;&nbsp; Kelvin Friesen (Karen) of Archbold, OH; Janice Roth West (Tom) of Wichita; Eric (Wanda) of Cimarron; Gregg (Joanna) of Newton; Jon (Kristeen) of North Newton; Jennifer LeFevre (Dennis) of Woodland Park, CO along with 12 grandchildren and six great grandchildren.&nbsp;At age 3 months Paul traveled with his family by ship from New York to Bombay, India and from there by train to Central India where his parents served as missionaries with the Mennonite Church; his mother a physician and his father an evangelist.&nbsp; His early years were spent playing with his younger sister (Grace) and children from the village of Sankra in the Central Provinces where the family lived.&nbsp; At age 5 he began school in Landoor (U.P India) at Woodstock School in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains.&nbsp; He recalled being capable of speaking in English, Hindi (including the local Chitisgarri dialect from where he grew up), and Urdu.&nbsp; While he initially dreaded boarding school, it was that setting that gave him a peer group with diverse interests and, up to his death, he retained a fondness for the school and its mountainous setting. &nbsp; In the early 30’s the family returned to the states for two years with one year in Iowa and one in Chicago.&nbsp; In the end, the return to India was a welcome relief. &nbsp; His time in India left Paul with a bounty of stories of snakes, leopards, tigers, and long travels by bike or train.&nbsp; It was not unusual for him to bike 30 to 40 miles on dusty roads to visit friends, hike in the mountains, or to swim in the headwaters of the Ganges.&nbsp; It was perhaps that setting and those experiences that led him to develop an ability to delight others with stories that held the attention of his children and others.&nbsp; The family returned to the states in 1941.Once back in the United States, Paul attended Hesston Academy and College where he met Wilma Wenger of Wellman, IA.&nbsp; They were married after he graduated from Goshen College where he completed a Bachelors of Theology degree.&nbsp; Together he and Wilma worked in church planting in Highway Village, IL and Sterling, IL where their first two children were born.&nbsp; A call from Hesston College led to a career change when the college recruited Paul to develop an art program for the college.&nbsp; That prompted further education and an eventual MFA from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; His teaching career included work at both Bethel and Hesston Colleges where he focused on ceramics and sculpture.&nbsp; He continued to preach and through his life worked in various roles within the church.&nbsp; His sermons were remembered as much for their stories as for their theological content. &nbsp; Paul saw himself first as a pastor and his art work often embodied elements of his faith. Following retirement Paul worked in his studio doing ceramics and working with both wood and stone to create works of art.&nbsp; His final commissioned sculpture piece was completed in his 97th year and his final work of ceramics, a burial urn for a close college friend, at age 98.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition to his family, Paul’s passions included teaching, gardening, a love of Indian food, and travel.&nbsp; With his family of six children he and Wilma camped from Idaho to Virginia.&nbsp; He instilled in his children a cooperative and congenial sense of family that continues to this day.&nbsp; Paul was passionate about life.&nbsp; While his legacy includes a wealth of art work, both publicly and privately held, his greatest legacy lives in the lives of his family and in the students he taught and mentored over a long and productive life.&nbsp; This world, it can be said, is a better place because of him.&nbsp; Interment will be at Eastlawn Cemetery in rural Harvey County.&nbsp; Services at the Hesston Mennonite Church are pending.

Paul Arthur Friesen  |1923-2022|  

Alicebeth June Boeken, 86, of South Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away Friday, May 27, 2022 at Hospice House in Hutchinson, Kansas. She was born June 14, 1935 in Marshall, Oklahoma, the daughter of Russell B. and Viva (Franklin) Grimes.

She was united in marriage to Dr. Floyd Arthur Boeken on March 2, 1991 in Iola, Kansas. He preceded her in death on July 3, 2009.

Alicebeth was a member of the First Baptist Church of Iola and Haven Baptist Church. She volunteered in the Awanna program in both Iola and Haven.

Alicebeth is survived by daughter, Deborah (Mark) Smith of Haven; son, Dennis Clark of Clearwater; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Carol Sue Klein of Enid, OK; and brother, Harlan Grimes of TX.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and eight siblings.

Cremation is planned. Private family services will be held at a later date.&nbsp;

Alicebeth June Boeken, 86, of South Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away Friday, May 27, 2022 at Hospice House in Hutchinson, Kansas. She was born June 14, 1935 in Marshall, Oklahoma, the daughter of Russell B. and Viva (Franklin) Grimes. She was united in marriage to Dr. Floyd Arthur Boeken on March 2, 1991 in Iola, Kansas. He preceded her in death on July 3, 2009. Alicebeth was a member of the First Baptist Church of Iola and Haven Baptist Church. She volunteered in the Awanna program in both Iola and Haven. Alicebeth is survived by daughter, Deborah (Mark) Smith of Haven; son, Dennis Clark of Clearwater; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Carol Sue Klein of Enid, OK; and brother, Harlan Grimes of TX. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and eight siblings. Cremation is planned. Private family services will be held at a later date.&nbsp;

Alicebeth June Boeken  |1935-2022|  

Christina Ann Collette, 61, passed away Wednesday, May 25, 2022, surrounded by her loving family, at her home in Hutchinson, KS. Chris was born November 6, 1961, in Hutchinson, KS, the daughter of Lester Craig and Georgia Linton Craig.&nbsp;&nbsp; Per Chris's wishes, cremation has taken place.&nbsp; A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Christina Ann Collette, 61, passed away Wednesday, May 25, 2022, surrounded by her loving family, at her home in Hutchinson, KS. Chris was born November 6, 1961, in Hutchinson, KS, the daughter of Lester Craig and Georgia Linton Craig.&nbsp;&nbsp; Per Chris's wishes, cremation has taken place.&nbsp; A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Christina Ann Collette |1961-2022|

Lois Mae Smith, 94, of Hutchinson, KS, passed away Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at Hutchinson Health and Rehab.

Known to family and friends as Mae, she and her twin brother, Ray, were born January 30, 1928, in Perkins, OK, to Tolbert W. and Cora E. (Downey) Allison.&nbsp; The family lived in Oklahoma, moving to Hutchinson when the twins were in high school.

Graduating from Hutchinson High School in 1946, Mae then graduated from Salt City Business College and began working as a secretary for the judges in the Reno County Probate Court.

On June 6, 1948, Mae was united in marriage to Wallace Reed Smith of Hutchinson, living together until his death in 2012.&nbsp; They had two daughters, Debra and Cindy. While the girls were small, Mae was a stay-at-home mom and set an example of giving back with a variety of community volunteer activities that included PTO work, League of Women Voters, and various volunteer positions with the Girl Scouts.

As a member of Northminster Presbyterian Church, and later New Covenant Presbyterian Church, Mae was involved in youth group activities and a member of Circle. She also served as an elder and deacon.

When the girls were older, Mae answered a friend’s request to substitute as a secretary for the President of Hutchinson Community College and began a fifteen-year career as secretary for Dr. Jim Stringer, Dean of Student Services.&nbsp; Following her time at HCC, Mae had a fifteen-year career as secretary to Richard Parker, President of Krause Plow Corporation.

Family and friends were the focus of Mae’s life.&nbsp; Everyone was welcome around her table that was filled with her delicious cooking, especially her pies.&nbsp; Holidays were time for her to host dinners for her large family, but parties could come together quickly for birthdays or any other reason.

Mae and Wally loved to travel and be outdoors.&nbsp; Summers were spent camping with extended family around the various lakes in Kansas or traveling to the mountains in Colorado.

Once grandchildren Sarah and Joe came along, Mae and Wally became an active presence in their lives – traveling to Indiana to attend school and sports events as enthusiastic cheerleaders.&nbsp; Always ready for an adventure, Mae was a willing participant in whatever activity was to be tried – kayaking, driveway basketball, and theme parks.

Mae is survived by:&nbsp; her daughters, &nbsp;Debra Kay Crawford (Bill) of Hilton Head Island, SC, and Cindy Kidd (Doug) of Hutchinson, KS; granddaughter, Sarah Kane (Joe) of Minneapolis, MN; grandson, Joseph Wallace Crawford of Minneapolis, MN; and great-grandson, Liam Kane of Minneapolis, MN.

She was preceded in death by:&nbsp; her brothers, Ray, Robert, Otes, and Lester Allison; and sisters, Vera Pritchett, LaVeta Garner, LaVina Bradford, Marie Hawkins, and Neil Bush.

Memorial service will be held at a future date.&nbsp; Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to New Covenant Presbyterian Church or Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS.

Lois Mae Smith, 94, of Hutchinson, KS, passed away Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at Hutchinson Health and Rehab.Known to family and friends as Mae, she and her twin brother, Ray, were born January 30, 1928, in Perkins, OK, to Tolbert W. and Cora E. (Downey) Allison.&nbsp; The family lived in Oklahoma, moving to Hutchinson when the twins were in high school.Graduating from Hutchinson High School in 1946, Mae then graduated from Salt City Business College and began working as a secretary for the judges in the Reno County Probate Court.On June 6, 1948, Mae was united in marriage to Wallace Reed Smith of Hutchinson, living together until his death in 2012.&nbsp; They had two daughters, Debra and Cindy. While the girls were small, Mae was a stay-at-home mom and set an example of giving back with a variety of community volunteer activities that included PTO work, League of Women Voters, and various volunteer positions with the Girl Scouts.As a member of Northminster Presbyterian Church, and later New Covenant Presbyterian Church, Mae was involved in youth group activities and a member of Circle. She also served as an elder and deacon.When the girls were older, Mae answered a friend’s request to substitute as a secretary for the President of Hutchinson Community College and began a fifteen-year career as secretary for Dr. Jim Stringer, Dean of Student Services.&nbsp; Following her time at HCC, Mae had a fifteen-year career as secretary to Richard Parker, President of Krause Plow Corporation.Family and friends were the focus of Mae’s life.&nbsp; Everyone was welcome around her table that was filled with her delicious cooking, especially her pies.&nbsp; Holidays were time for her to host dinners for her large family, but parties could come together quickly for birthdays or any other reason.Mae and Wally loved to travel and be outdoors.&nbsp; Summers were spent camping with extended family around the various lakes in Kansas or traveling to the mountains in Colorado.Once grandchildren Sarah and Joe came along, Mae and Wally became an active presence in their lives – traveling to Indiana to attend school and sports events as enthusiastic cheerleaders.&nbsp; Always ready for an adventure, Mae was a willing participant in whatever activity was to be tried – kayaking, driveway basketball, and theme parks.Mae is survived by:&nbsp; her daughters, &nbsp;Debra Kay Crawford (Bill) of Hilton Head Island, SC, and Cindy Kidd (Doug) of Hutchinson, KS; granddaughter, Sarah Kane (Joe) of Minneapolis, MN; grandson, Joseph Wallace Crawford of Minneapolis, MN; and great-grandson, Liam Kane of Minneapolis, MN.She was preceded in death by:&nbsp; her brothers, Ray, Robert, Otes, and Lester Allison; and sisters, Vera Pritchett, LaVeta Garner, LaVina Bradford, Marie Hawkins, and Neil Bush.Memorial service will be held at a future date.&nbsp; Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to New Covenant Presbyterian Church or Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS.

Lois Mae Smith |1928-2022|

Clarice “Elaine” Johnson, 85, died May 24, 2022, at Pine Village, Moundridge. She was born February 22, 1937, in Athol, to Elbert E. and Buenos E. (Bartcher) Fiene.

Elaine graduated from Lebanon high school in 1954. She worked in food service at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and USD 308 for many years before retiring. Elaine was a member of Women of the Moose Hutchinson Chapter #1371 and First Christian Church, where she was active in Christian Women’s Fellowship and was Elder Emeritus. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who loved attending her grandchildren’s sporting events. Elaine was faithful, valued hard work, and enjoyed flower gardening, refinishing furniture, remodeling homes, vintage cars, antiquing, crafting, garage/estate sales, auctions, and ice cream.

On July 3, 1954, she married Thomas F. Johnson in Lebanon. He died October 21, 2012.

Elaine is survived by: her children, Jacqueline Roberts, Mark Johnson (Julie), Julie Galindo, all of Hutchinson, Jana Galimore, of Leavenworth; 16 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; brother, Leroy Fiene; son, David Lee Johnson; grandson, Jason Roberts; daughter-in-law, Pam Johnson; and son-in-law, Chon Galindo.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at First Christian Church, 15 E 5th&nbsp;Ave., Hutchinson. Burial will follow at 4:00 p.m. in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Cora.

Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with family present to receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Monday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Christian Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Clarice “Elaine” Johnson, 85, died May 24, 2022, at Pine Village, Moundridge. She was born February 22, 1937, in Athol, to Elbert E. and Buenos E. (Bartcher) Fiene.Elaine graduated from Lebanon high school in 1954. She worked in food service at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and USD 308 for many years before retiring. Elaine was a member of Women of the Moose Hutchinson Chapter #1371 and First Christian Church, where she was active in Christian Women’s Fellowship and was Elder Emeritus. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who loved attending her grandchildren’s sporting events. Elaine was faithful, valued hard work, and enjoyed flower gardening, refinishing furniture, remodeling homes, vintage cars, antiquing, crafting, garage/estate sales, auctions, and ice cream.On July 3, 1954, she married Thomas F. Johnson in Lebanon. He died October 21, 2012.Elaine is survived by: her children, Jacqueline Roberts, Mark Johnson (Julie), Julie Galindo, all of Hutchinson, Jana Galimore, of Leavenworth; 16 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.She was preceded in death by: her parents; brother, Leroy Fiene; son, David Lee Johnson; grandson, Jason Roberts; daughter-in-law, Pam Johnson; and son-in-law, Chon Galindo.Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at First Christian Church, 15 E 5th&nbsp;Ave., Hutchinson. Burial will follow at 4:00 p.m. in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Cora.Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with family present to receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Monday at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Christian Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Clarice “Elaine” Johnson |1937-2022|

Dorothy M. Eisiminger passed away on Monday, May 23, 2022 at her home in Hutchinson. She was the daughter of Wenslow J. Novotny &amp; Marie C. (Voss) Novotny.&nbsp; Per Dorothy's wishes, cremation has been chosen. There will be no other services held at this time. Hutchinson Funeral Chapel &amp; Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dorothy M. Eisiminger passed away on Monday, May 23, 2022 at her home in Hutchinson. She was the daughter of Wenslow J. Novotny &amp; Marie C. (Voss) Novotny.&nbsp; Per Dorothy's wishes, cremation has been chosen. There will be no other services held at this time. Hutchinson Funeral Chapel &amp; Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dorothy M. Eisiminger |1931-2022|

Mary Ellen Dondlinger (Witt) was raised on a farm outside Tahlequah, Oklahoma milking cows, reading books in the hay loft and playing marbles. A self-described tomboy on the farm, mom learned the value of hard work, appreciation for what little they had, and, most importantly, the importance of family and love of God. She was born on the farm to Burgess and Hazel Witt on September 23, 1935. She passed away peacefully on May 25, 2022, after several days with her husband, children and other family at her bedside.

The daughter of a teacher, mom had a life-long love of reading and learning. Her passion for education led her to Northeastern University and the teaching profession. After graduation, fearless and educated, she moved to Ketchikan, Alaska, before it was a state, where she taught school. Mom later moved to Hutchinson where she taught school at Winans and met Bill Ray Dondlinger at Trinity United Methodist Church. They were married on June 19, 1960 at Trinity. Mom and dad were happily married for just short of 62 years. They had three children, Tara Lynn Kauffman (Bryan), Amarillo, Texas, Tal Gene Dondlinger, Hutchinson, and Kip Alan Dondlinger (Allison), Overland Park, Kansas.

Once Kip was in High School, mom returned to teaching at Roosevelt elementary school in Hutchinson. There she was twice selected as USD 308 Teacher of the Year.&nbsp; Having raised three wonderful children and after several more years at Roosevelt, mom retired from teaching to take on the new role of grandmother to four grandchildren, Paul, Sarah, Mitchell, and Nancy, and later two great grandchildren, Owen and Reid. She loved to create and capture memories by writing books for the grandkids on her iMac computer. She also enjoyed writing poems and documenting family history. During her retirement, Mary enjoyed traveling extensively with Bill. She had many wonderful friends through her long membership in PEO, her weekly rounds of tennis and scrabble and her activities in the church.

Mary is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as her younger brother James Witt (Jetta), Pensacola, Florida. Mom’s older sister, Patsy Ely, passed away in 2016.

Mom was fiercely dedicated to her family and community. She successfully passed that, as well as her love of education and reading, to her children and grandchildren. She worked tirelessly to ensure the best possible life for Tal through her work with TECH and other organizations. She leaves a giant legacy in her family. We will miss her dearly but know she will live on in each of us.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 28, 2022, at Elliott Chapel, with the Reverend Dr. Kim Biery officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow in Lone Star Cemetery, Pretty Prairie. Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; The family will greet friends from 10:00 a.m. Saturday until service time at the funeral home.

<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1653521876186278">Click here to view Mary Dondlinger's Memorial Service</a>

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to TECH, Inc., in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67501.

Mary Ellen Dondlinger (Witt) was raised on a farm outside Tahlequah, Oklahoma milking cows, reading books in the hay loft and playing marbles. A self-described tomboy on the farm, mom learned the value of hard work, appreciation for what little they had, and, most importantly, the importance of family and love of God. She was born on the farm to Burgess and Hazel Witt on September 23, 1935. She passed away peacefully on May 25, 2022, after several days with her husband, children and other family at her bedside.The daughter of a teacher, mom had a life-long love of reading and learning. Her passion for education led her to Northeastern University and the teaching profession. After graduation, fearless and educated, she moved to Ketchikan, Alaska, before it was a state, where she taught school. Mom later moved to Hutchinson where she taught school at Winans and met Bill Ray Dondlinger at Trinity United Methodist Church. They were married on June 19, 1960 at Trinity. Mom and dad were happily married for just short of 62 years. They had three children, Tara Lynn Kauffman (Bryan), Amarillo, Texas, Tal Gene Dondlinger, Hutchinson, and Kip Alan Dondlinger (Allison), Overland Park, Kansas.Once Kip was in High School, mom returned to teaching at Roosevelt elementary school in Hutchinson. There she was twice selected as USD 308 Teacher of the Year.&nbsp; Having raised three wonderful children and after several more years at Roosevelt, mom retired from teaching to take on the new role of grandmother to four grandchildren, Paul, Sarah, Mitchell, and Nancy, and later two great grandchildren, Owen and Reid. She loved to create and capture memories by writing books for the grandkids on her iMac computer. She also enjoyed writing poems and documenting family history. During her retirement, Mary enjoyed traveling extensively with Bill. She had many wonderful friends through her long membership in PEO, her weekly rounds of tennis and scrabble and her activities in the church.Mary is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as her younger brother James Witt (Jetta), Pensacola, Florida. Mom’s older sister, Patsy Ely, passed away in 2016.Mom was fiercely dedicated to her family and community. She successfully passed that, as well as her love of education and reading, to her children and grandchildren. She worked tirelessly to ensure the best possible life for Tal through her work with TECH and other organizations. She leaves a giant legacy in her family. We will miss her dearly but know she will live on in each of us.&nbsp;&nbsp;Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 28, 2022, at Elliott Chapel, with the Reverend Dr. Kim Biery officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow in Lone Star Cemetery, Pretty Prairie. Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; The family will greet friends from 10:00 a.m. Saturday until service time at the funeral home.<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1653521876186278">Click here to view Mary Dondlinger's Memorial Service</a>In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to TECH, Inc., in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67501.

Mary Ellen Dondlinger |1935-2022|

Jeffery Tyler Johnson, 55, of Hillsboro, died Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at Stormont Vail Health, Topeka.&nbsp; He was born March 21, 1967 in Topeka, the son of Jeffery and Vergene (Pitzenberger) Johnson.&nbsp; Ty worked on a dairy farm a good portion of his life and had been a resident of Hillsboro for ten years, moving from Lehigh.

On February 12, 1993 he married Linda Joy Morris in McPherson.&nbsp; They were blessed with three children, Tanner Lane, Lakyn Tylin and Lynne Taylor.&nbsp; Linda preceded him in death on April 28, 2009 and Tanner preceded him in death on December 14, 2015.

Ty is survived by his daughters, Lakyn Tylin Johnson and Lynne Taylor Johnson, both of Hillsboro; his mother and step-father, Genie and Lee Swenson, Lindsborg; a brother, Greg Johnson, Lindsborg and a sister, Susan Johnson, Lindsborg.&nbsp; He was also preceded in death by his father.

Cremation has taken place.&nbsp; A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.&nbsp; Olson's Mortuary, Canton, is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp;

Jeffery Tyler Johnson, 55, of Hillsboro, died Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at Stormont Vail Health, Topeka.&nbsp; He was born March 21, 1967 in Topeka, the son of Jeffery and Vergene (Pitzenberger) Johnson.&nbsp; Ty worked on a dairy farm a good portion of his life and had been a resident of Hillsboro for ten years, moving from Lehigh.On February 12, 1993 he married Linda Joy Morris in McPherson.&nbsp; They were blessed with three children, Tanner Lane, Lakyn Tylin and Lynne Taylor.&nbsp; Linda preceded him in death on April 28, 2009 and Tanner preceded him in death on December 14, 2015.Ty is survived by his daughters, Lakyn Tylin Johnson and Lynne Taylor Johnson, both of Hillsboro; his mother and step-father, Genie and Lee Swenson, Lindsborg; a brother, Greg Johnson, Lindsborg and a sister, Susan Johnson, Lindsborg.&nbsp; He was also preceded in death by his father.Cremation has taken place.&nbsp; A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.&nbsp; Olson's Mortuary, Canton, is in charge of arrangements.&nbsp;

Jeffery Tyler Johnson |1967-2022|

Cooper Allen O’Bray’s Birth Announcement

Cooper Allen O’Bray was born April 15, 2022 on Good Friday at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas to Rachel Amiot Thompson and Matthew O’Bray at 12:54am at 3 pounds 11 ounces and 15 inches long.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 12 Weeks and 2 days gestation Cooper was diagnosed with Trisomy 18, also known as Edwards Syndrome. At 20 Weeks gestation Cooper was also diagnosed with HLHS (Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome) Meaning Cooper had only his right side of his heart, this diagnosis is terminal. With each week Cooper continued to grow and defied all the odds that the doctors gave his mom and dad. At 36 weeks and 1 day mom and dad relocated to the Ronald McDonald house in Kansas City. On April 13th, Cooper's mom was diagnosed with preeclampsia and admitted to the women's fetal health floor at Children's Mercy. The morning of April 14 induction to Cooper's birth was started. After 30 hours and 54 minutes Cooper joined this world with his mom, dad, siblings, and grandparents on April 15, 2022, at 12:54am at 3 pounds 11 ounces and 15 inches long.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper's Family were prepared and praying to get time with Cooper before he passed away, because all the doctors told them that Trisomy 18 is “incompatible with life” and add HLHS, that Cooper would not survive after birth: if he survived birth. But at 12:54am Cooper was breathing! HE CRIED! He was placed on his mom's chest, and he looked up at his mom and he continued to breathe. Cooper defied the odds, he survived birth and he lived! Blood was taken from the umbilical cord for Genetic testing. Cooper was to have no pain, no needle pokes, only love and peace. Cooper was baptized with his family at his side.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After his birth they were moved to a regular room where many doctors came to see him. Cooper had a right cleft lip, however, miraculously it healed in the womb. His pallet was intact which allowed him to breath and take milk from a bottle.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper was born with 2 clubbed feet and the softest rock bottom feet. Both hands were clenched and clubbed but he could move them, and they caused no pain. (These are common soft markers found in ultrasounds to diagnose Trisomy-18 which occurs in 1 in every 5,000 pregnancies).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At one day of age Cooper received a cardiac echogram of his heart, where it was found that the PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) was enlarged at 0.63cm. The Cardiologists told us that with this, they could give us 2 weeks of life. If Cooper passed before 2 weeks it would then be a Trisomy 18 relation such as Apnea, but they also said he could live up to 2 months. 24 hours after Cooper's birth, Mom, dad, and Cooper headed home from Kansas City, 2.5 hours to Herington, Kansas. To spend his time home with family. Cooper came home under the care of Dickinson County Hospice.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper fought each day to spend time with his family and for 33 days, he was home with someone 24/7, Cooper was never alone and never knew pain, only love. While very small at 3.5 pounds, Cooper received a NG tube at Wesley Childrens on April 19th at 4 days Old, as Cooper started to decline in oral bottle feeding, He was just too small. With the NG tube Cooper regained his Birth weight of 3 pounds 11 ounces and enjoyed his “droplets” of milk by mouth (With his precious kissy lips). Cooper Breathed on his own until May 4th. He was 19 days old when he developed sleep apnea/ central apnea and oxygen was used and he was ok.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper's family cherished every second of their borrowed time from God, providing memories for Cooper and family to last a lifetime. Cooper enjoyed meeting the Easter bunny by Rachel Barnes. He met Santa Clause thanks to Mr. Hirsch. Cooper was home loving on mommy for Mother’s Day. All of his grandparents were able to meet him, not only once but twice. He enjoyed a 1-month Birthday party with his family and both sets of grandparents. He got to enjoy a little bit of frosting from his birthday cupcake and birthday cookie. He looked at his big bright candle while he was serenaded with “Happy Birthday”. Each morning mommy and Cooper read stories and mommy took thousands of pictures. Cooper even celebrated with his big brother, Presley, as he graduated high school. So many cherished family events and memories were spent with cooper.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On the afternoon of May 18th, Cooper developed pulmonary Hypertension as his PDA was closing. His family snuggled him and gave him so much love and cherished those last fighting moments as Cooper peacefully closed his eyes and went to be with Jesus on May 18th,2022 at 10:41 pm at the age of 33 days 9 hours and 41 minutes of life. Our sweet boy, who was told we may get a few minutes, or he would probably be born sleeping, gave his family almost 802 hours of glorious, treasured time together.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper will forever be known as “Mighty Mouse” because when he stretched his arms, he would stretch his right arm all the way up and his left arm down, He looked like Mighty Mouse. However, being so small he truly was a fighter just like Mighty Mouse. Cooper touched the lives and hearts of not only his family and friends, but the lives of so many people all over the world through his mom’s online support groups; Trisomy 18, Soft and from Diagnosis to Delivery. An extreme amount of love from his Herington Community and friends of family all over the United States. He will never be forgotten. He truly blessed so many people giving hope, joy, love and wrote his own story.

Cooper Allen O’Bray is survived by his Mom (Rachel), Dad (Matthew) of Herington, Kansas, His big brother Preston of Sioux Falls South Dakota, His big brothers Parker, Presley, Chase, and Grayson of Herington Kansas, His Big sister Emma of Herington Kansas, His special sister Lindsey of Herington Kansas, His Maternal grandparents Allen and Myra (Heuer) Thompson of Stockholm South Dakota, His fraternal Grandparents LeRoy and Cindy (Morgan) O’Bray of Hope Kansas. His Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins&nbsp;

Cooper is preceded in death by his great grandparents Jackie and Theodora Thompson, Erwin and Rose Heuer, Alfred and Theresa Morgan, and Florence Sanders and Gerald O’Bray

Viewing at Yazel-Megli funeral home in Herington, KS Wednesday May 25th, 2022 at 6:00pm to 7:30pm with service to follow at 7:30pm with Father Peter.&nbsp;

Graveside services will be held at a later date at the Evergreen Cemetery in Stockholm South Dakota for family and Friends.&nbsp;

A Special Cooper O’Bray Memorial fund was set up under Rachel Amiot at Central National Bank of Herington.

Cards May be mailed to the Family at 589 Union Road, Herington, Kansas 67449

Cooper's family would like to say thank you to everyone who prayed and supported the family throughout Cooper's wonderful and glorious life, he truly was a Trisomy-18 miracle, and he was truly loved by all, and he was able to receive and give love to so many in his short 33 days of life. During his brief visit on earth, Cooper enjoyed listening to music, his mother singing to him, morning story time, being held close by his parents, siblings, family and friends. He was loved by all who met him and will be greatly missed.&nbsp;

Fly high sweet baby boy cooper you have gained your Angel wings and will forever be missed. We will see you again someday; you will always be our little sunshine; you are my sunshine! A sweet diamond in the sky. Rest in heaven precious Angel you are proof that angels can live here on earth. We are so grateful God picked us to be your mommy, daddy, and family. Thank you, Cooper, for letting us love you and for loving us with all your pure unconditional love. -Love mom and dad

I will not forget you, for behold, I have written your name on the palms of my hands -Isaiah 49:15b, 16a

Cooper Allen O’Bray’s Birth AnnouncementCooper Allen O’Bray was born April 15, 2022 on Good Friday at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas to Rachel Amiot Thompson and Matthew O’Bray at 12:54am at 3 pounds 11 ounces and 15 inches long.Cooper Allen O’Bray’s Journey&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At 12 Weeks and 2 days gestation Cooper was diagnosed with Trisomy 18, also known as Edwards Syndrome. At 20 Weeks gestation Cooper was also diagnosed with HLHS (Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome) Meaning Cooper had only his right side of his heart, this diagnosis is terminal. With each week Cooper continued to grow and defied all the odds that the doctors gave his mom and dad. At 36 weeks and 1 day mom and dad relocated to the Ronald McDonald house in Kansas City. On April 13th, Cooper's mom was diagnosed with preeclampsia and admitted to the women's fetal health floor at Children's Mercy. The morning of April 14 induction to Cooper's birth was started. After 30 hours and 54 minutes Cooper joined this world with his mom, dad, siblings, and grandparents on April 15, 2022, at 12:54am at 3 pounds 11 ounces and 15 inches long.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper's Family were prepared and praying to get time with Cooper before he passed away, because all the doctors told them that Trisomy 18 is “incompatible with life” and add HLHS, that Cooper would not survive after birth: if he survived birth. But at 12:54am Cooper was breathing! HE CRIED! He was placed on his mom's chest, and he looked up at his mom and he continued to breathe. Cooper defied the odds, he survived birth and he lived! Blood was taken from the umbilical cord for Genetic testing. Cooper was to have no pain, no needle pokes, only love and peace. Cooper was baptized with his family at his side.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After his birth they were moved to a regular room where many doctors came to see him. Cooper had a right cleft lip, however, miraculously it healed in the womb. His pallet was intact which allowed him to breath and take milk from a bottle.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper was born with 2 clubbed feet and the softest rock bottom feet. Both hands were clenched and clubbed but he could move them, and they caused no pain. (These are common soft markers found in ultrasounds to diagnose Trisomy-18 which occurs in 1 in every 5,000 pregnancies).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At one day of age Cooper received a cardiac echogram of his heart, where it was found that the PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) was enlarged at 0.63cm. The Cardiologists told us that with this, they could give us 2 weeks of life. If Cooper passed before 2 weeks it would then be a Trisomy 18 relation such as Apnea, but they also said he could live up to 2 months. 24 hours after Cooper's birth, Mom, dad, and Cooper headed home from Kansas City, 2.5 hours to Herington, Kansas. To spend his time home with family. Cooper came home under the care of Dickinson County Hospice.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper fought each day to spend time with his family and for 33 days, he was home with someone 24/7, Cooper was never alone and never knew pain, only love. While very small at 3.5 pounds, Cooper received a NG tube at Wesley Childrens on April 19th at 4 days Old, as Cooper started to decline in oral bottle feeding, He was just too small. With the NG tube Cooper regained his Birth weight of 3 pounds 11 ounces and enjoyed his “droplets” of milk by mouth (With his precious kissy lips). Cooper Breathed on his own until May 4th. He was 19 days old when he developed sleep apnea/ central apnea and oxygen was used and he was ok.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper's family cherished every second of their borrowed time from God, providing memories for Cooper and family to last a lifetime. Cooper enjoyed meeting the Easter bunny by Rachel Barnes. He met Santa Clause thanks to Mr. Hirsch. Cooper was home loving on mommy for Mother’s Day. All of his grandparents were able to meet him, not only once but twice. He enjoyed a 1-month Birthday party with his family and both sets of grandparents. He got to enjoy a little bit of frosting from his birthday cupcake and birthday cookie. He looked at his big bright candle while he was serenaded with “Happy Birthday”. Each morning mommy and Cooper read stories and mommy took thousands of pictures. Cooper even celebrated with his big brother, Presley, as he graduated high school. So many cherished family events and memories were spent with cooper.&nbsp;Cooper Gets His Wings&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On the afternoon of May 18th, Cooper developed pulmonary Hypertension as his PDA was closing. His family snuggled him and gave him so much love and cherished those last fighting moments as Cooper peacefully closed his eyes and went to be with Jesus on May 18th,2022 at 10:41 pm at the age of 33 days 9 hours and 41 minutes of life. Our sweet boy, who was told we may get a few minutes, or he would probably be born sleeping, gave his family almost 802 hours of glorious, treasured time together.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cooper will forever be known as “Mighty Mouse” because when he stretched his arms, he would stretch his right arm all the way up and his left arm down, He looked like Mighty Mouse. However, being so small he truly was a fighter just like Mighty Mouse. Cooper touched the lives and hearts of not only his family and friends, but the lives of so many people all over the world through his mom’s online support groups; Trisomy 18, Soft and from Diagnosis to Delivery. An extreme amount of love from his Herington Community and friends of family all over the United States. He will never be forgotten. He truly blessed so many people giving hope, joy, love and wrote his own story.Cooper Allen O’Bray is survived by his Mom (Rachel), Dad (Matthew) of Herington, Kansas, His big brother Preston of Sioux Falls South Dakota, His big brothers Parker, Presley, Chase, and Grayson of Herington Kansas, His Big sister Emma of Herington Kansas, His special sister Lindsey of Herington Kansas, His Maternal grandparents Allen and Myra (Heuer) Thompson of Stockholm South Dakota, His fraternal Grandparents LeRoy and Cindy (Morgan) O’Bray of Hope Kansas. His Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins&nbsp;Cooper is preceded in death by his great grandparents Jackie and Theodora Thompson, Erwin and Rose Heuer, Alfred and Theresa Morgan, and Florence Sanders and Gerald O’BrayViewing at Yazel-Megli funeral home in Herington, KS Wednesday May 25th, 2022 at 6:00pm to 7:30pm with service to follow at 7:30pm with Father Peter.&nbsp;Graveside services will be held at a later date at the Evergreen Cemetery in Stockholm South Dakota for family and Friends.&nbsp;A Special Cooper O’Bray Memorial fund was set up under Rachel Amiot at Central National Bank of Herington.Cards May be mailed to the Family at 589 Union Road, Herington, Kansas 67449Cooper's family would like to say thank you to everyone who prayed and supported the family throughout Cooper's wonderful and glorious life, he truly was a Trisomy-18 miracle, and he was truly loved by all, and he was able to receive and give love to so many in his short 33 days of life. During his brief visit on earth, Cooper enjoyed listening to music, his mother singing to him, morning story time, being held close by his parents, siblings, family and friends. He was loved by all who met him and will be greatly missed.&nbsp;Mom and Dad’s Letter to CooperFly high sweet baby boy cooper you have gained your Angel wings and will forever be missed. We will see you again someday; you will always be our little sunshine; you are my sunshine! A sweet diamond in the sky. Rest in heaven precious Angel you are proof that angels can live here on earth. We are so grateful God picked us to be your mommy, daddy, and family. Thank you, Cooper, for letting us love you and for loving us with all your pure unconditional love. -Love mom and dadI will not forget you, for behold, I have written your name on the palms of my hands -Isaiah 49:15b, 16a

Cooper Allen O’Bray |2022|

Donald Lee Schwartz, 85, of Moundridge, Kansas, passed away Monday, May 23, 2022 at Pine Village.&nbsp; He was born March 15, 1937 in Hoisington, Kansas, the son of John and Christina M. (Kuhn) Schwartz.

Don graduated from Hoisington High School with the class of 1955.&nbsp; He later enlisted in the United States Navy where he served in active duty from 1955 to 1959.&nbsp; He was stationed on the U.S.S. Hornet.&nbsp; Don attained the rank of Yeoman third class.&nbsp; During the 1980’s, Don was given a special age waiver in order to serve in the U.S. Naval Reserves and was discharged honorably in January of 1986.

He was united in marriage to Anne Strine on November 24, 1958 in Seattle, Washington.&nbsp; She preceded him in death in 1970.&nbsp; Don later married Julie E. (Mahurin) Martin on June 26, 1970 in Seattle.&nbsp; She survives of their home.&nbsp; Don and Julie enjoyed 51 years of marriage and would have soon celebrated their 52nd anniversary this June.

Don was an office manager for rural and long haul trucking companies, Associated Transfer &amp; Storage and Owl Transfer, both located in Seattle.

He enjoyed flower gardening and landscaping.&nbsp; Don took pride in painting his own home and enjoyed helping friends and family with their painting projects.

Other survivors include his four children, Donald (Julie) Martin of Chandler, AZ, Keta Schwartz of Yukon, OK, Richard (Hayley) Martin of Wenatchee, WA, and Carol Black of Hutchinson; seven grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; brother, Tom (Pat) Schwartz of Wichita; and sister, Theresa Murray of Kingman.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; first wife; sister, Betty Szmyd; brother, John Schwartz; and granddaughter, Kodi Martin.

Cremation is planned.&nbsp; Private family services will be held at a later date.&nbsp; Per Don’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered at Big Horn National Forest on Grey Bull Mountain in Wyoming.&nbsp; Condolences and sympathy cards may be sent in care of Moundridge Funeral Home, PO Box 410, Moundridge, KS 67107.

Donald Lee Schwartz, 85, of Moundridge, Kansas, passed away Monday, May 23, 2022 at Pine Village.&nbsp; He was born March 15, 1937 in Hoisington, Kansas, the son of John and Christina M. (Kuhn) Schwartz.Don graduated from Hoisington High School with the class of 1955.&nbsp; He later enlisted in the United States Navy where he served in active duty from 1955 to 1959.&nbsp; He was stationed on the U.S.S. Hornet.&nbsp; Don attained the rank of Yeoman third class.&nbsp; During the 1980’s, Don was given a special age waiver in order to serve in the U.S. Naval Reserves and was discharged honorably in January of 1986.He was united in marriage to Anne Strine on November 24, 1958 in Seattle, Washington.&nbsp; She preceded him in death in 1970.&nbsp; Don later married Julie E. (Mahurin) Martin on June 26, 1970 in Seattle.&nbsp; She survives of their home.&nbsp; Don and Julie enjoyed 51 years of marriage and would have soon celebrated their 52nd anniversary this June.Don was an office manager for rural and long haul trucking companies, Associated Transfer &amp; Storage and Owl Transfer, both located in Seattle.He enjoyed flower gardening and landscaping.&nbsp; Don took pride in painting his own home and enjoyed helping friends and family with their painting projects.Other survivors include his four children, Donald (Julie) Martin of Chandler, AZ, Keta Schwartz of Yukon, OK, Richard (Hayley) Martin of Wenatchee, WA, and Carol Black of Hutchinson; seven grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; brother, Tom (Pat) Schwartz of Wichita; and sister, Theresa Murray of Kingman.Don was preceded in death by his parents; first wife; sister, Betty Szmyd; brother, John Schwartz; and granddaughter, Kodi Martin.Cremation is planned.&nbsp; Private family services will be held at a later date.&nbsp; Per Don’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered at Big Horn National Forest on Grey Bull Mountain in Wyoming.&nbsp; Condolences and sympathy cards may be sent in care of Moundridge Funeral Home, PO Box 410, Moundridge, KS 67107.

Donald Lee Schwartz |1937-2022|

Joyce Ann Caley, 64, died at her favorite “home away from home” (the Nickerson sandpit), May 21, 2022.&nbsp; She was born May 19, 1958, in Kingman, to Charles Junior and Mary Margaret (Sheahan) Horton.&nbsp;

Joyce graduated from Nickerson High School in 1976.&nbsp; She worked a variety of jobs, from Arrow Machine to Electrex to selling Home Interiors, before opening her own home daycare. Joyce enjoyed crafting, spending time at the Nickerson sandpit, and being with her family. She never went anywhere without a Diet Coke or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups nearby!

On November 22, 1980, she married Larry Caley, in Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Joyce is survived by:&nbsp; her husband of over 41 years, Larry; daughters, Amber Patterson (Travis), Alyse Caley (Kris Smith), all of Hutchinson, and Larissa Kujavo (Mat) of Brazil; siblings, Betty Rohling (Leon) of Nickerson, Bill Horton (Jennifer) of IA, and Chuck Horton (Cheryl) of ID; grandchildren, Wyatt, Madysin, Laryssa, Kordell, Caleb, and McKenzie; and numerous nieces, nephews, and bonus children.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and a grandson, Tytus.

Cremation has taken place. &nbsp;Celebration of Life service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 27, 2022, at Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Jerry Stokely officiating.&nbsp; Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, with the family to receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; Private inurnment will take place at a later date in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson.&nbsp;

<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1653422480185974">Click here to view Joyce's Celebration of Life Service</a>

Joyce Ann Caley, 64, died at her favorite “home away from home” (the Nickerson sandpit), May 21, 2022.&nbsp; She was born May 19, 1958, in Kingman, to Charles Junior and Mary Margaret (Sheahan) Horton.&nbsp;Joyce graduated from Nickerson High School in 1976.&nbsp; She worked a variety of jobs, from Arrow Machine to Electrex to selling Home Interiors, before opening her own home daycare. Joyce enjoyed crafting, spending time at the Nickerson sandpit, and being with her family. She never went anywhere without a Diet Coke or Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups nearby!On November 22, 1980, she married Larry Caley, in Hutchinson.&nbsp;Joyce is survived by:&nbsp; her husband of over 41 years, Larry; daughters, Amber Patterson (Travis), Alyse Caley (Kris Smith), all of Hutchinson, and Larissa Kujavo (Mat) of Brazil; siblings, Betty Rohling (Leon) of Nickerson, Bill Horton (Jennifer) of IA, and Chuck Horton (Cheryl) of ID; grandchildren, Wyatt, Madysin, Laryssa, Kordell, Caleb, and McKenzie; and numerous nieces, nephews, and bonus children.She was preceded in death by her parents, and a grandson, Tytus.Cremation has taken place. &nbsp;Celebration of Life service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 27, 2022, at Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Jerry Stokely officiating.&nbsp; Friends may sign her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, with the family to receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; Private inurnment will take place at a later date in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson.&nbsp;<a href="https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1653422480185974">Click here to view Joyce's Celebration of Life Service</a>

Joyce Ann Caley |1958-2022| 

Melanie Jean Baird passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, May 22, 2022.&nbsp; She was 79 years of age.&nbsp; Melanie was born in Winfield, March 24, 1943, the first child of John Paul Thompson and Jean Maxine Maddox Thompson. Melanie was a strong-willed person. She survived Polio as a young child as well as numerous emotional and financial setbacks during her life. She always rebounded as a stronger person and was an inspiration to her family and friends.

Melanie graduated from Winfield High School in 1962. She married Charles Richard ‘Dick’ Baird, the son of Thomas O. and Laverne Brown Baird in Newton, Kansas on January 24, 1969.&nbsp; She and Dick moved to Cross Hill South Carolina shortly thereafter. Their son Brian Richard Baird was born in nearby Greenwood, South Carolina on November 12, 1975.&nbsp; Dick died July 19, 2013, in Greenwood.&nbsp; Melanie and Brian returned to Newton, Kansas in 1986.

Melanie worked for One Call Concepts in Wichita, retiring after more than 20 years of service.&nbsp; She was much loved by her co-workers who enjoyed her infectious laughter and sense of humor.&nbsp; Melanie was an avid reader all her life; She always had a book by her side. Animals were a large part of Melanie’s life, and she always had a dog or cat as a pet.

Melanie was a long-time member of Immanuel Baptist Church of Newton and was a Sunday School class teacher and past treasurer of the church. Melanie was a participating teacher in Newton’s weekday Bible school program for several years and many young children heard their first Bible stories from her.

Melanie was preceded in death by her parents, and an infant brother, James Woodbridge Thompson. Her son Brian (Briana Barkley) and grandson, Caselon John Baird, of Newton survive.&nbsp; Melanie is also survived by a sister, Terrill Lynne Thompson Morton (Roger) and several nieces and nephews.

Melanie Jean Baird passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, May 22, 2022.&nbsp; She was 79 years of age.&nbsp; Melanie was born in Winfield, March 24, 1943, the first child of John Paul Thompson and Jean Maxine Maddox Thompson. Melanie was a strong-willed person. She survived Polio as a young child as well as numerous emotional and financial setbacks during her life. She always rebounded as a stronger person and was an inspiration to her family and friends.Melanie graduated from Winfield High School in 1962. She married Charles Richard ‘Dick’ Baird, the son of Thomas O. and Laverne Brown Baird in Newton, Kansas on January 24, 1969.&nbsp; She and Dick moved to Cross Hill South Carolina shortly thereafter. Their son Brian Richard Baird was born in nearby Greenwood, South Carolina on November 12, 1975.&nbsp; Dick died July 19, 2013, in Greenwood.&nbsp; Melanie and Brian returned to Newton, Kansas in 1986.Melanie worked for One Call Concepts in Wichita, retiring after more than 20 years of service.&nbsp; She was much loved by her co-workers who enjoyed her infectious laughter and sense of humor.&nbsp; Melanie was an avid reader all her life; She always had a book by her side. Animals were a large part of Melanie’s life, and she always had a dog or cat as a pet.Melanie was a long-time member of Immanuel Baptist Church of Newton and was a Sunday School class teacher and past treasurer of the church. Melanie was a participating teacher in Newton’s weekday Bible school program for several years and many young children heard their first Bible stories from her.Melanie was preceded in death by her parents, and an infant brother, James Woodbridge Thompson. Her son Brian (Briana Barkley) and grandson, Caselon John Baird, of Newton survive.&nbsp; Melanie is also survived by a sister, Terrill Lynne Thompson Morton (Roger) and several nieces and nephews.Funeral Service is pending

Melanie Jean Baird |1943-2022|  

Gary Lee “Charlie” Melander, 83, of Assaria, died Saturday, May 21, 2022.  Charlie was the son of Emmet P. and Opal (Major) Melander and was born in Salina on March 30, 1939.     

He is survived by his wife: Kathy; son: Brent Melander (Melanie) of Assaria; daughter: Mandy Stephenson (Casey) of Assaria; brother: Olaf Melander (Sara Jo) of Leawood; sister: Patricia Melander of Assaria; grandchildren: Cody Melander (Kaleigh), Carley Melander, Katie Stephenson, and Morgan Stephenson; great grandchildren: Sadie and Jack Melander; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members and special friends, Steve Caselman and Sam Siegrist.  Charlie was preceded in death by his parents.

Charlie graduated from Assaria High School in 1957 and Wichita State University.  Charlie married Kathy McKim on June 2, 1973 in Salina. 

He taught American History at Salina High School and Salina Central High School for 13 years.  He was a supervisor for the Saline County Conservation District, served on the Saline County Planning and Zoning Commission and was a member of the Board of Education for Southeast of Saline.  Charlie was a lifelong farmer in Saline County.  He was a steward of the land, believing it’s our duty to conserve and protect our natural resources for future generations.  He spent many years working with The Land Institute on furthering sustainable agriculture.  He was an avid hunter and fisherman, but family time was his favorite.  He enjoyed harvest and meals served in the field from the “chuck wagon”.  The family has enjoyed many evenings at the campground that Charlie discovered by the river, sharing stories and roasting marsh mellows.  Christmas was a special time at the Melander’s, Santa always made an appearance and a meal with all the Swedish family favorites.    

Cremation has been selected.  Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, May 26th at Assaria Lutheran Church, 124 W 1st St, Assaria, with Pastor Dean Apel officiating.  

The family would especially like to thank the staff at Riverview Estates for their compassionate care and support.

Gary Lee “Charlie” Melander, 83, of Assaria, died Saturday, May 21, 2022. Charlie was the son of Emmet P. and Opal (Major) Melander and was born in Salina on March 30, 1939. He is survived by his wife: Kathy; son: Brent Melander (Melanie) of Assaria; daughter: Mandy Stephenson (Casey) of Assaria; brother: Olaf Melander (Sara Jo) of Leawood; sister: Patricia Melander of Assaria; grandchildren: Cody Melander (Kaleigh), Carley Melander, Katie Stephenson, and Morgan Stephenson; great grandchildren: Sadie and Jack Melander; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members and special friends, Steve Caselman and Sam Siegrist. Charlie was preceded in death by his parents.Charlie graduated from Assaria High School in 1957 and Wichita State University. Charlie married Kathy McKim on June 2, 1973 in Salina. He taught American History at Salina High School and Salina Central High School for 13 years. He was a supervisor for the Saline County Conservation District, served on the Saline County Planning and Zoning Commission and was a member of the Board of Education for Southeast of Saline. Charlie was a lifelong farmer in Saline County. He was a steward of the land, believing it’s our duty to conserve and protect our natural resources for future generations. He spent many years working with The Land Institute on furthering sustainable agriculture. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, but family time was his favorite. He enjoyed harvest and meals served in the field from the “chuck wagon”. The family has enjoyed many evenings at the campground that Charlie discovered by the river, sharing stories and roasting marsh mellows. Christmas was a special time at the Melander’s, Santa always made an appearance and a meal with all the Swedish family favorites. Cremation has been selected. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, May 26th at Assaria Lutheran Church, 124 W 1st St, Assaria, with Pastor Dean Apel officiating. The family would especially like to thank the staff at Riverview Estates for their compassionate care and support.

Gary Lee “Charlie” Melander |1939-2022|  

Jerry Don Brasuel, Sr., 75, of Lindsborg died Friday, May 20, 2022 at Bethany Home of Lindsborg.  Jerry was born May 24, 1946 in Lubbock, TX to the late Troy and the late Janice (Hickman) Brasuel.  

Jerry was the husband of the late Anita (Cline) Brasuel.  Jerry attended the Assembly of God Church, and he worked as a structural iron worker.

He is survived by his son: Jerry D. Brasuel, Jr. of Great Bend; sister: Janet Brock of Grand Junction, CO; brother: Michael Brasuel (Rebecca) of Marble Falls, TX;  daughter-in-law: Minnette Brasuel; as well as his grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Anita; and son: Brent Brasuel.

Cremation has been chosen and burial services will be held at a later date in Marble Falls, TX.

Jerry Don Brasuel, Sr., 75, of Lindsborg died Friday, May 20, 2022 at Bethany Home of Lindsborg. Jerry was born May 24, 1946 in Lubbock, TX to the late Troy and the late Janice (Hickman) Brasuel. Jerry was the husband of the late Anita (Cline) Brasuel. Jerry attended the Assembly of God Church, and he worked as a structural iron worker.He is survived by his son: Jerry D. Brasuel, Jr. of Great Bend; sister: Janet Brock of Grand Junction, CO; brother: Michael Brasuel (Rebecca) of Marble Falls, TX; daughter-in-law: Minnette Brasuel; as well as his grandchildren.Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Anita; and son: Brent Brasuel.Cremation has been chosen and burial services will be held at a later date in Marble Falls, TX.

Jerry Don Brasuel, Sr. |1946-2022|  

Mildred June Griffin, 91, passed away May 19, in Bedford, Texas.&nbsp; She was born to Amos Robert and Hazel Nadine ( French) Jantz on April 5, 1931, in Montezuma, and was a long-time resident of Hutchinson, ( 1942-2007).&nbsp; She married John Ollie Griffin on August 7, 1954.&nbsp; he preceded her in death.

Mildred was a registered nurse for more than four decades, serving first at Grace Hospital in Hutchinson, then with Hutchinson Hospital.&nbsp; She bore five children, two of whom preceded her in death, Stuart Allen Griffin and Beverly Dawn Weesner.

Surviving are Robert Bruce ( Nancy Jane) Griffin of Florida, Patricia Louise Kelly of Colorado, and Elaine Rene ( David) Plybon of Texas, along with grandchildren Valarie ( Tom) Wise of California, Justin Deckness of Kansas, Eric Kelly of Missouri, Cassondra Plybon, Rene Griffin, Trevor Plybon, Anthony (Victoria) Griffin, and Nathan Griffin, all of Texas, and siblings, Myrna Moore, Juanita Carmichael, both of Kansas, and Marvin Jantz of Colorado.&nbsp; She was grandma to four great-grandchildren and a dearly loved aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Mildred lived her life in service to her Lord, and her optimism and compassion were the marks she left on everyone she touched.&nbsp; Her faithful devotion to God and her family is surely rewarded as she moves on from this life.

Memorial services will be held at Old Mission-Heritage Funeral Home ( date and time to be announced) and she will be interred at Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson.

Mildred June Griffin, 91, passed away May 19, in Bedford, Texas.&nbsp; She was born to Amos Robert and Hazel Nadine ( French) Jantz on April 5, 1931, in Montezuma, and was a long-time resident of Hutchinson, ( 1942-2007).&nbsp; She married John Ollie Griffin on August 7, 1954.&nbsp; he preceded her in death.Mildred was a registered nurse for more than four decades, serving first at Grace Hospital in Hutchinson, then with Hutchinson Hospital.&nbsp; She bore five children, two of whom preceded her in death, Stuart Allen Griffin and Beverly Dawn Weesner.Surviving are Robert Bruce ( Nancy Jane) Griffin of Florida, Patricia Louise Kelly of Colorado, and Elaine Rene ( David) Plybon of Texas, along with grandchildren Valarie ( Tom) Wise of California, Justin Deckness of Kansas, Eric Kelly of Missouri, Cassondra Plybon, Rene Griffin, Trevor Plybon, Anthony (Victoria) Griffin, and Nathan Griffin, all of Texas, and siblings, Myrna Moore, Juanita Carmichael, both of Kansas, and Marvin Jantz of Colorado.&nbsp; She was grandma to four great-grandchildren and a dearly loved aunt to many nieces and nephews.Mildred lived her life in service to her Lord, and her optimism and compassion were the marks she left on everyone she touched.&nbsp; Her faithful devotion to God and her family is surely rewarded as she moves on from this life.Memorial services will be held at Old Mission-Heritage Funeral Home ( date and time to be announced) and she will be interred at Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson.

Mildred June Griffin |1931-2022|  

Ivan Lamar White, 82, of Hesston, passed away Sunday, May 22, 2022 at Schowalter Villa.&nbsp; He was born December 7, 1939 in Newton, the son of Allen A. and Edna (Horst) White.&nbsp; Ivan grew up in Wichita and near Peabody.

He graduated from Hesston College High School with the class of 1958.&nbsp; Ivan later attended Hesston College for two years and then attended Bethel College in North Newton, where he graduated from in 1967.

He was united in marriage to Twyla Fae Selzer on September 8, 1962.

Ivan owned and operated White Oak Enterprises, where he worked in residential carpentry in Hesston, Newton and Elbing.&nbsp; For 15 years, he taught Industrial Arts at Berean Academy in Elbing.

He was a member of Whitestone Mennonite Church in Hesston.&nbsp; Ivan and Twyla volunteered at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp in Divide, Colorado.&nbsp; They also helped with Mennonite Disaster Services (MDS).

Ivan is survived by his wife, Twyla of Hesston; son, Bruce (Melody) White of Palisade, CO; daughter, Gwen White of Greenwood, IN; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; four brothers, Don (Betty) White of Washington, D.C., Roger (Sherry) White of Hesston, Darwin (Theresa) White of Troy, AL, and Virgil (Diane) White of Hesston; and sister, Coleen White of Hesston.

Cremation is planned and a celebration of life service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 25, 2022 at Whitestone Mennonite Church, Hesston.&nbsp; Following the service, a meal will be provided at the church.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ivan Lamar White, 82, of Hesston, passed away Sunday, May 22, 2022 at Schowalter Villa.&nbsp; He was born December 7, 1939 in Newton, the son of Allen A. and Edna (Horst) White.&nbsp; Ivan grew up in Wichita and near Peabody.He graduated from Hesston College High School with the class of 1958.&nbsp; Ivan later attended Hesston College for two years and then attended Bethel College in North Newton, where he graduated from in 1967.He was united in marriage to Twyla Fae Selzer on September 8, 1962.Ivan owned and operated White Oak Enterprises, where he worked in residential carpentry in Hesston, Newton and Elbing.&nbsp; For 15 years, he taught Industrial Arts at Berean Academy in Elbing.He was a member of Whitestone Mennonite Church in Hesston.&nbsp; Ivan and Twyla volunteered at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp in Divide, Colorado.&nbsp; They also helped with Mennonite Disaster Services (MDS).Ivan is survived by his wife, Twyla of Hesston; son, Bruce (Melody) White of Palisade, CO; daughter, Gwen White of Greenwood, IN; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; four brothers, Don (Betty) White of Washington, D.C., Roger (Sherry) White of Hesston, Darwin (Theresa) White of Troy, AL, and Virgil (Diane) White of Hesston; and sister, Coleen White of Hesston.He was preceded in death by his parents.Cremation is planned and a celebration of life service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 25, 2022 at Whitestone Mennonite Church, Hesston.&nbsp; Following the service, a meal will be provided at the church.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ivan Lamar White |1939-2022|  

Kevin William Biles, 41, passed away Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at his home. He was born on March 26, 1981 in Pratt to William "Bill" and Jane (Gatz) Biles. Kevin graduated from Skyline High School in 1999. He was a member of Pratt Disc Golf Club and Green Valley Golf Course. He enjoyed golfing, playing disc golf and collecting vintage music records. He was a very outgoing and fun to be around. He is survived by his parents; daughters, Sydney Biles, Keni Donovan and Camrynn Holmes; sister, Kathryn (Logan) McAllister of Macksville; niece, Lakyn McAllister; nephew, Kole McAllister; and grandmother, Jessica Gatz of Pratt. Kevin is preceded in death by his grandparents, Jack Gatz and Arlie and Marie Biles. Visitation will be Wednesday, May 25, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. with family receiving friends from 6-8 at Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 26, 2022 at First United Methodist Church, Pratt with Reverend Nicole Schwartz-Eck presiding.

Kevin William Biles, 41, passed away Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at his home. He was born on March 26, 1981 in Pratt to William "Bill" and Jane (Gatz) Biles. Kevin graduated from Skyline High School in 1999. He was a member of Pratt Disc Golf Club and Green Valley Golf Course. He enjoyed golfing, playing disc golf and collecting vintage music records. He was a very outgoing and fun to be around. He is survived by his parents; daughters, Sydney Biles, Keni Donovan and Camrynn Holmes; sister, Kathryn (Logan) McAllister of Macksville; niece, Lakyn McAllister; nephew, Kole McAllister; and grandmother, Jessica Gatz of Pratt. Kevin is preceded in death by his grandparents, Jack Gatz and Arlie and Marie Biles. Visitation will be Wednesday, May 25, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. with family receiving friends from 6-8 at Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 26, 2022 at First United Methodist Church, Pratt with Reverend Nicole Schwartz-Eck presiding.

Kevin William Biles  |1981-2022|  

Isabella Stefanie Zeelie, 6-week-old infant of Divan Daniel and Emmalee Blake (Himmelwright) Zeelie passed away Monday, May 16, 2022 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. She was born on April 5, 2022 in Wichita. Isabella was born the middle triplet but was definitely the leader of the three, as well as the instigator. Though her time with her family was too short, she was very much cherished and loved by all. Isabella loved to be held and cuddled, especially by her big sisters Yanika and Esme'. She is survived by her parents; sisters, Yanika Blake Zeelie and Esme' Ane' Elizabeth Zeelie; brothers, Everett Daniel Zeelie and Emmett Jack Zeelie; grandparents, Christine and Blake Himmelwright of Pratt and Johanna "Babie" Stefanie and Daniel "Dennis" Johannes Zeelie of Cape Town, South Africa; great-grandmother, Suzanne Himmelwright of Belvedere, California; aunts, Pauline (Lucas) Horton of Leawood; Allison (Tyler) Hendrickson of Redding, California; Heather (Gus) McDonald of Austin, Texas; and Lucinda "Cindy" (Renier) Cronje' of Cape Town, South Africa; cousins, Xandre' Cronje', Janke Cronje', Clara Horton and Holden Hendrickson; and many other beloved family members. Isabella is preceded in death by her great-grandfather, Jack Himmelwright; great-grandparents, Claude and Martha Wolfe, James Sameul and Anna Carolina Petronella Smit and Daniel Johannes and Martha Catherina Zeelie. Cremation has taken place. Friends may sign the book at Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt The family will have a private memorial service at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Isabella Stefanie Zeelie, 6-week-old infant of Divan Daniel and Emmalee Blake (Himmelwright) Zeelie passed away Monday, May 16, 2022 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. She was born on April 5, 2022 in Wichita. Isabella was born the middle triplet but was definitely the leader of the three, as well as the instigator. Though her time with her family was too short, she was very much cherished and loved by all. Isabella loved to be held and cuddled, especially by her big sisters Yanika and Esme'. She is survived by her parents; sisters, Yanika Blake Zeelie and Esme' Ane' Elizabeth Zeelie; brothers, Everett Daniel Zeelie and Emmett Jack Zeelie; grandparents, Christine and Blake Himmelwright of Pratt and Johanna "Babie" Stefanie and Daniel "Dennis" Johannes Zeelie of Cape Town, South Africa; great-grandmother, Suzanne Himmelwright of Belvedere, California; aunts, Pauline (Lucas) Horton of Leawood; Allison (Tyler) Hendrickson of Redding, California; Heather (Gus) McDonald of Austin, Texas; and Lucinda "Cindy" (Renier) Cronje' of Cape Town, South Africa; cousins, Xandre' Cronje', Janke Cronje', Clara Horton and Holden Hendrickson; and many other beloved family members. Isabella is preceded in death by her great-grandfather, Jack Himmelwright; great-grandparents, Claude and Martha Wolfe, James Sameul and Anna Carolina Petronella Smit and Daniel Johannes and Martha Catherina Zeelie. Cremation has taken place. Friends may sign the book at Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt The family will have a private memorial service at a later date.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Isabella Stefanie Zeelie  |2022|  

Rebecca Lea Bazil, 50, passed away Saturday, May 14, 2022.&nbsp; She was born in Wichita, Kansas to Keith L. Bazil and Karen (Murphy) Bazil.&nbsp;She was a lifelong resident of Park City, attended Valley Center schools and was a graduate of Valley Center High School in the class of 1990. Rebecca was&nbsp; a loving mother to four beautiful children and was a waitress at Walt's Diner.

She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, was active in the community and always said her children were her life’s greatest accomplishments. She enjoyed being outdoors and fishing. She also loved Dr. Pepper. Preceded in death by her parents Keith and Karen Bazil, her sister Kathy Phillips, her uncle Howard “Gene” Bazil.

Rebecca is survived by her children Kyle (Katie) Nordick of Park City; Justin (Laura) Howard of Wichita; Meaghan Holden (Joshua Johnson), and Kaitlynne Holden both of Towanda; grandchildren, Karsyn Nordick, Carter Nordick, Camdyn Nordick, Kashly Nordick and Dean Johnson; sisters Deb (Jerry) Tudor and Shellie (Robert) Cross; nieces Stephanie (Michael) Golden; nephews Cody Steele, Jeremy (Nicole) Fowler,Clint Bazil, Alex Hardin; great nephew Levi Bazil; many other family and friends.

Rebecca Lea Bazil, 50, passed away Saturday, May 14, 2022.&nbsp; She was born in Wichita, Kansas to Keith L. Bazil and Karen (Murphy) Bazil.&nbsp;She was a lifelong resident of Park City, attended Valley Center schools and was a graduate of Valley Center High School in the class of 1990. Rebecca was&nbsp; a loving mother to four beautiful children and was a waitress at Walt's Diner.She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, was active in the community and always said her children were her life’s greatest accomplishments. She enjoyed being outdoors and fishing. She also loved Dr. Pepper. Preceded in death by her parents Keith and Karen Bazil, her sister Kathy Phillips, her uncle Howard “Gene” Bazil.Rebecca is survived by her children Kyle (Katie) Nordick of Park City; Justin (Laura) Howard of Wichita; Meaghan Holden (Joshua Johnson), and Kaitlynne Holden both of Towanda; grandchildren, Karsyn Nordick, Carter Nordick, Camdyn Nordick, Kashly Nordick and Dean Johnson; sisters Deb (Jerry) Tudor and Shellie (Robert) Cross; nieces Stephanie (Michael) Golden; nephews Cody Steele, Jeremy (Nicole) Fowler,Clint Bazil, Alex Hardin; great nephew Levi Bazil; many other family and friends.Private family services will be held.

Rebecca Lea Bazil  |2022|  

Gladys S. Naylor, 104, died peacefully on Monday, May 16, 2022, at The Cedars, McPherson.&nbsp; She was a high school teacher, Executive with Church Women United, and also was a Director with the YWCA.

Gladys was born on February 5, 1918, in Navarre, the daughter of Benjamin Hoover and Margaret (Hoffmann) Shank.&nbsp; On May 10, 1942, Gladys was united in marriage to Kurtis Friend Naylor in Navarre, Kansas.&nbsp; They were married 58 years before his passing on February 17, 2001.

She was a graduate of McPherson College and a member of the McPherson Church of the Brethren.

Survivors include: four daughters, Merylee Ortmayer of Lexington, Kentucky; Cherylin Peniston (W.J.) of Thornton, Colorado; Mariza Naylor of Alta Loma, California; and Illana Naylor (Richard Barrett) of Manassas, Virginia; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren: Beau Ortmayer of Chula Vista, California; Cody Ortmayer of Chula Vista, California; Erin Larkin (James Larkin) &nbsp;and Ava and Nate Larkin of Westminster, Colorado; Geoffry Tolmachoff (Brooke Tolmachoff) and Gretchen and Rhett Tolmachoff of Westminster, Colorado; Rianna Barrett (Chris Schatz) and Connor Schatz of Alexandria, Virginia; Benjamin Barrett of Manassas, Virginia; and Alisa Halferty (Ryan Halferty) and Owen and Dylan Halferty of Durham, North Carolina; and many extended family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Gladys S. Naylor, 104, died peacefully on Monday, May 16, 2022, at The Cedars, McPherson.&nbsp; She was a high school teacher, Executive with Church Women United, and also was a Director with the YWCA.Gladys was born on February 5, 1918, in Navarre, the daughter of Benjamin Hoover and Margaret (Hoffmann) Shank.&nbsp; On May 10, 1942, Gladys was united in marriage to Kurtis Friend Naylor in Navarre, Kansas.&nbsp; They were married 58 years before his passing on February 17, 2001.She was a graduate of McPherson College and a member of the McPherson Church of the Brethren.Survivors include: four daughters, Merylee Ortmayer of Lexington, Kentucky; Cherylin Peniston (W.J.) of Thornton, Colorado; Mariza Naylor of Alta Loma, California; and Illana Naylor (Richard Barrett) of Manassas, Virginia; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren: Beau Ortmayer of Chula Vista, California; Cody Ortmayer of Chula Vista, California; Erin Larkin (James Larkin) &nbsp;and Ava and Nate Larkin of Westminster, Colorado; Geoffry Tolmachoff (Brooke Tolmachoff) and Gretchen and Rhett Tolmachoff of Westminster, Colorado; Rianna Barrett (Chris Schatz) and Connor Schatz of Alexandria, Virginia; Benjamin Barrett of Manassas, Virginia; and Alisa Halferty (Ryan Halferty) and Owen and Dylan Halferty of Durham, North Carolina; and many extended family and friends.A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Gladys S. Naylor  |1918-2022|  

Eirving Eugene Rains, 80, of McPherson, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes at 2:29 p.m., Saturday, May 21st, 2022 at his home. Eirv was born in Wallace, at his grandparents Locks' home, on July 22, 1941, a son to Mary Ruth (Lock) and Eldon Morris Rains. Eirv started grade school at Winona grade school, Winona, Kansas and finished grade school at Wallace, Kansas and graduated Wallace County Community High School, in Sharon Springs, in 1959. He honorably served in the U.S. Army as a SP4. He was stationed in Germany and with his mechanical abilities he was put in charge of the motor pool. Eirving Eugene Rains was united in marriage to Navene Neva Grund on June 27, 1965 at the Baptist Church in Sharon Springs. The young couple established their first home together in Wallace. This union was blessed with the birth of three children, two sons and one daughter, Keith, Kent, and Kerry. In the fall of 1971 the family moved to Sharon Springs, until 1999 when they moved to McPherson, Kansas. Eirv grew up around his Uncle George Lock's gas station and mechanic shop where he learned mechanic skills and later became a mechanic for the Ford Garage in Sharon Springs. After returning from the Army, Eirv went to work at the Cowles Motor Service in Sharon Springs for a couple years. He then decided to go to work for Navene's Uncle John Mather's auto parts store and gas station. After a couple years, John sold the business to Eirv and Navene in 1968. They owned and operated the business employing many family members until 1999 when he retired and sold the business to a nephew, Chance Rains. During this time Eirv also served as mayor for 16 years, an EMT for 20 years, as the Wesleyan Church treasurer and worked on building projects, was a member of the Chamber of Commerce serving in many capacities, and served on the Board of Education, all of Sharon Springs. Eirv attended the First United Methodist Church in McPherson. Eirv enjoyed his family especially his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and cats. He was a perfectionist and could fix anything and loved things clean. He enjoyed playing cards, board games, golf, and loved watching the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas Jayhawks basketball. He enjoyed rides in the country and telling the history of Wallace County with his family. His grandkids loved when Grandad would get the golf cart out and he would give them all rides and teach them to drive. He is survived by his loving and caring wife of over 56 years Navene Rains, of McPherson; his children, Keith Rains, and wife Teresa, of Little River, Kent Rains and wife Suzanne, of Lenexa, and Kerry Schrock and husband Sam, of Kearney, Nebraska; his siblings, Richard Rains, of Wallace, Becky Vincent and husband Tony, of Sharon Springs, George Rains and wife Debbie, of Wallace, and Gerald Rains and his wife Shirley, of Sharon Springs; his sister-in-law, Maxine Atkinson and her husband Gene, of Garden City; his seven grandchildren, Marci Boltz and husband Luke, Bronson Rains, Abigail Rains, Ethan Rains, Piper Schrock, Kade Schrock, Kit Schrock; his five great-grandchildren, Laetyn Boltz, Raif Boltz, Steelie Boltz, Ramsey Boltz, and Bret Boltz; many nephews, nieces, other relatives, and a host of friends. Eirving was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Allen; a sister-in-law, Pat Rains; a nephew Greg Rains and his wife Mel. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 26th, 2022 at First United Methodist Church in McPherson, Kansas with Deacon Jeanne Koontz officiating. Interment will be at the McPherson Cemetery McPherson. Military honors will be presented by members of the American Legion Post 24 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2715 both of McPherson with Taps being played by Mark Casebeer.

Eirving Eugene Rains, 80, of McPherson, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes at 2:29 p.m., Saturday, May 21st, 2022 at his home. Eirv was born in Wallace, at his grandparents Locks' home, on July 22, 1941, a son to Mary Ruth (Lock) and Eldon Morris Rains. Eirv started grade school at Winona grade school, Winona, Kansas and finished grade school at Wallace, Kansas and graduated Wallace County Community High School, in Sharon Springs, in 1959. He honorably served in the U.S. Army as a SP4. He was stationed in Germany and with his mechanical abilities he was put in charge of the motor pool. Eirving Eugene Rains was united in marriage to Navene Neva Grund on June 27, 1965 at the Baptist Church in Sharon Springs. The young couple established their first home together in Wallace. This union was blessed with the birth of three children, two sons and one daughter, Keith, Kent, and Kerry. In the fall of 1971 the family moved to Sharon Springs, until 1999 when they moved to McPherson, Kansas. Eirv grew up around his Uncle George Lock's gas station and mechanic shop where he learned mechanic skills and later became a mechanic for the Ford Garage in Sharon Springs. After returning from the Army, Eirv went to work at the Cowles Motor Service in Sharon Springs for a couple years. He then decided to go to work for Navene's Uncle John Mather's auto parts store and gas station. After a couple years, John sold the business to Eirv and Navene in 1968. They owned and operated the business employing many family members until 1999 when he retired and sold the business to a nephew, Chance Rains. During this time Eirv also served as mayor for 16 years, an EMT for 20 years, as the Wesleyan Church treasurer and worked on building projects, was a member of the Chamber of Commerce serving in many capacities, and served on the Board of Education, all of Sharon Springs. Eirv attended the First United Methodist Church in McPherson. Eirv enjoyed his family especially his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and cats. He was a perfectionist and could fix anything and loved things clean. He enjoyed playing cards, board games, golf, and loved watching the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas Jayhawks basketball. He enjoyed rides in the country and telling the history of Wallace County with his family. His grandkids loved when Grandad would get the golf cart out and he would give them all rides and teach them to drive. He is survived by his loving and caring wife of over 56 years Navene Rains, of McPherson; his children, Keith Rains, and wife Teresa, of Little River, Kent Rains and wife Suzanne, of Lenexa, and Kerry Schrock and husband Sam, of Kearney, Nebraska; his siblings, Richard Rains, of Wallace, Becky Vincent and husband Tony, of Sharon Springs, George Rains and wife Debbie, of Wallace, and Gerald Rains and his wife Shirley, of Sharon Springs; his sister-in-law, Maxine Atkinson and her husband Gene, of Garden City; his seven grandchildren, Marci Boltz and husband Luke, Bronson Rains, Abigail Rains, Ethan Rains, Piper Schrock, Kade Schrock, Kit Schrock; his five great-grandchildren, Laetyn Boltz, Raif Boltz, Steelie Boltz, Ramsey Boltz, and Bret Boltz; many nephews, nieces, other relatives, and a host of friends. Eirving was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Allen; a sister-in-law, Pat Rains; a nephew Greg Rains and his wife Mel. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 26th, 2022 at First United Methodist Church in McPherson, Kansas with Deacon Jeanne Koontz officiating. Interment will be at the McPherson Cemetery McPherson. Military honors will be presented by members of the American Legion Post 24 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2715 both of McPherson with Taps being played by Mark Casebeer.

Obituaries