W.R. Jackson

Bolckow, Missouri

W.R. Jackson, 93, Bolckow, Missouri, died Sunday, June 16, 2013,  at Living Community of St. Joseph,  Saint Joseph, Missouri.

W.R. was born December 2, 1919, in Maryville, Missouri to Roy E and Lila Marie (Wells) Jackson.

He married Arvina Christina Mueller,  May 17, 1969, in Chillicothe, Missouri.

A 1937 graduate of Guilford High School, he was a retired meat inspector for the United States Department of Agriculture, and former Chief Deputy for the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office from 1958-1964.  Prior to that he had raised livestock and was a grain farmer.

W.R. was a member of the Elks Club Lodge #760 ( Past Exalted Ruler and Past District Deputy) and the Eagles Lodge # 3669 both of Maryville.

Preceding in death were his parents and brothers Lloyd T. and Trubee Jackson.

Survivors include his wife Arvina Christina Jackson, stepson Larry Walby, Chandler, Arizona, nephew Lloyd Jackson, Bolckow, Missouri, niece Lila Jackson Pennington, Jefferson City, Missouri and several great and great great nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be at 11 AM, Wednesday, June 19, 2013 at Nodaway Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Maryville, Missouri. Friends may call anytime at (www.pricefuneralhomemaryville.com)

Sue Ann (Brown) Farris

April 23, 1946 – June 14, 2013

Sue Ann was born in Excelsior Springs, Missouri to Thomas M. and Marvene F. (Hensley) Brown. She resided in Excelsior Springs, Liberty, Maysville and most recently Cameron, Missouri. She enjoyed working with people who shared her goal to make life better for others. She worked in pharmacies, hospitals, and doctor’s offices before retiring and volunteering her cosmetology skills in nursing homes. She leaves behind a loving family, countless friends, and former work associates that she considered her extended family. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2013 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M., Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, Sue would have appreciated donations made to the charity of your choice. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Edna E. Gierach

1920-2013

Edna E. Gierach, 93, St. Joseph, Missouri died Saturday, June 15, 2013 at a local healthcare facility. She was born May 11, 1920 to James A. and Minnie (Gresset) Worthy. She married John W. (Jack) Gierach, who preceded her in death on May 12, 1970. She was a Secretary for the manager of Sears of Mentor, Ohio for fifteen years. Mrs. Gierach was an avid swimmer. She performed and coached synchronized swimming for twenty-seven years. Edna enjoyed organizing rides for Road to Recovery of cancer patients and was active at the YMCA in Painesville, Ohio. She was also a member of Brookdale Presbyterian Church, where she volunteered at Mark Twain Elementary school in their reading program. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; grandson, Dan J. Dzubay; brothers, James Worthy and Earl Worthy; and sister, Dora Sweeney. Survivors: daughter, Lee Stock (Leo) St. Joseph, Missouri; son, John L. Gierach (Susan McCann) Lyons, Colorado; grandson, James A. Dzubay; great-grandchildren, Daniel J. Dzubay, Serenity J. Dzubay, and Thadd A. Lewis; and nieces and nephews. Memorial Service to be held at a later date. Care provided by Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Joseph Kinyoun Houts

1923-2013

Joseph Kinyoun Houts passed away peacefully on June 16, 2013, at the Veterans Administration Home in Cameron, Missouri. He had lived in St. Joseph, Missouri most of his life. Mr. Houts was born August 9, 1923, in Kansas City, Missouri to Henry Hale Houts and Alice Kinyoun Houts. He was a graduate from Southwest High School in Kansas City, Missouri and graduated from the University of Missouri in 1945, where he had been a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. During World War II, he served in the Navy on the USS Rathburne. He obtained the rank of Lieutenant J. G. and spent the war in the South Pacific, participating in the battle of the Philippines, Iwo Jima and Okinawa, where his ship was struck by a Japanese kamikaze. While his ship was being repaired in San Diego, he married his college sweetheart Patricia Ann Collins on July 14, 1945, in St. Joseph, Missouri. She proceeded him in death on February 12, 1995, and as a child had been an “Ivory Soap Baby,” featured in Look magazine and other national publications. He is survived by a daughter, Trish Houts Reeves and a son, Joseph Kinyoun Houts, Jr. He is further survived by four grandchildren, Caroline Houts Castor and her husband Joshua, Jeremiah Krug Reeves, Joseph Kinyoun Houts, III and Katherine Houts Lorenz and her husband Brandon K. Additional survivors include his great grandson’s Liam Kinyoun Castor and Aidan Alexander Castor. After World War II., he received his law degree from the University of Missouri in 1947. He entered the practice of law in St. Joseph, Missouri with the firm of Conkling, Mayer & Sprague. In 1953, he became a partner in the firm of Sprague, Wilcox & Houts, retiring in 1995. As an attorney, he served two terms on the Board of Governors of the Missouri Bar in the mid 1960’s. In 1976, he became president of the local bar association and served as the chairman of its Ethics Committee for 25 years. He was also a member of the American Bar Association, the Missouri Bar Association and the Missouri Association of Trial Lawyers. Mr. Houts had been a member of the Benton Club, the St. Joseph Country Club, the Molia Shrine Temple, and Royal Order of Jesters Court 98, Downtown Rotary Club 32, the Friday Morning Breakfast Club, a Life Member of The Salvation Army Advisory Board of Directors and a member of the Brookdale Presbyterian Church. He loved all his many dogs throughout his life. His hobbies included golf and he loved to play bridge. Visitation will be held on Monday night from 5:00 to 6:30 P.M. Private family graveside services will be held at a later date. The family suggests memorial gifts to either the Brookdale Presbyterian Church, or The Salvation Army. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Beth Hollifield

1955-2013

Beth Hollifield, 58, Winston, Missouri died Monday, June 17, 2013 at her home. She was born May 28, 1955 to Clayton and Norma Larsen in Madison, Minnesota. Beth was a lifelong RN at Cameron Hospital and Cameron Home Health. She was an avid gardener. She was preceded in death by her father; and a brother, Russ Larsen. Survivors: husband, John; sons, Thad (Megan), Smithville, Missouri, Kyle (Erin), Liberty, Missouri, B.J. and grandson, Brody of Chillicothe, Missouri; two sisters, Nancy Secrest (Bruce) and Gretchen McGinnis (Pat). Mrs. Justice was a member of the Missouri Cremation Service. Online guestbook and obituary at www.missouricremation.com.

Richard C. “Dick” Ayers
1944-2013

Richard C. “Dick” Ayers, 69, St. Joseph, Missouri died Monday, June 10, 2013 at his home.
He was born March 11, 1944 to John and Gertrude (Hoffman) Ayers.
Dick graduated from Central High School in St. Joseph, Missouri in 1962. He is a graduate of Missouri Western State University and was employed by the University after graduation. He also worked at the American National Bank and owned Hodson’s Cleaners for a period of time.
Dick was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Y Fry, and YMCA.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors: brother, John H. “Jack” Ayers (Violet), Tucson, Arizona; sister, Debbie Ayers Andrews (Greg), Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri; and nephews, Ryan, Josh, Matt, and Chris.
Private Graveside Services & Interment, Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. Sunday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial gifts be made to First Presbyterian Church or YMCA Capital Fund. Services provided by Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.
Doug Estep
1964-2013

Doug Estep, 49, St. Joseph, Missouri died Wednesday, June 12, 2013 at Heartland Regional Medical Center.
He was born January 25, 1964 to Larry and Shirley (Heinz) Estep in Turney, Missouri.
Doug married Cheri Ann Kentzler on March 3, 2003.
He worked for many years at O’Reilly’s and opened and managed several stores. It was his dream to open his own business, and it came true in 2010 when he opened The Pitstop in Savannah.
Mr. Estep was a family man who did whatever he could to provide for his wife and family. His favorite thing was his recliner, and he enjoyed anything with an engine.
He was preceded in death by his mother; and brother, Bill Estep.
Survivors: wife; sons, Justin Broussard (Andrea) and Alan Broussard both of St. Joseph, Missouri; granddaughter, Kendra; and sister, Joy Estep, Cameron, Missouri.
The family will receive friends 2:00 to 4:00 P.M. Sunday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to American Heart Association. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.
Dorothy Pawling Oehrle
1916-2013

Dorothy Pawling Oehrle, 97, Kansas City, Missouri, formerly of St. Joseph, died Wednesday, June 12, 2013 at New Mark Rest Home in Gladstone, Missouri.
Dorothy was born January 15, 1916 in Galesburg, Illinois.
She married Norman H. Oehrle, July 3, 1936. He preceded her in death August 1, 1985.
Her working career included being a secretary at the Hillyard Vocational School in St. Joseph. While living in St. Joseph, she was a member of the Zion Evangelical Church. She was very active as a volunteer at the Jesse James Museum and the Patee House Hotel. For the last ten years she resided with her sisters in Kansas City, Missouri.
Dorothy had a deep interest in American history, and she collected many antiques. She loved going to all types of sales where she could spend hours searching for American memorabilia. She passed this love of history and antiques on to her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed being outside in nature. She, her husband, and children went camping, fishing, rock collecting, and mushroom hunting. Dorothy loved flowers, and she decorated her yards at all her homes with beautiful flowers, trees, and rock gardens. She had a deep relationship with her dogs and cats through the years. Those family and friends who knew Dorothy also knew that she said what she meant and she meant what she said.
She and her sisters lived together for ten years in Gladstone. The surviving sisters and Dorothy were very close and they will miss her dearly. Family and friends who visited the three sisters were usually treated to wonderful meals at area restaurants and to good stories from the past.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert L. Pawling and Emma J. Peterson Pawling; and three brothers Robert, Russell, and Quentin Pawling.
Survivors: her three children, Janice Oehrle-Fukasawa, Chesterfield, Missouri, Norman W. Oehrle, Columbia, Missouri, and Gary F. Oehrle, Livermore, California; grandchildren, Katie Oehrle Darr and Nathan Wayne Oehrle; three great-grandchildren, David Oehrle, Blake Darr, and Addie Darr; two sisters, Marquitta Miller and Marjorie Dougan.
Services: 10:00 A.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Ashland Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Crossroads Hospice, 9237 Ward Parkway, Suite 300, Kansas City, MO 64114. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

William A. Boor

1930-2013

William A. Boor, 82, St. Joseph, Missouri passed Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at a local healthcare facility. He was born November 4, 1930 to Glennwood and Helen (Bristow) Boor in Hamilton, Missouri. William married Vera Lindsey in 1950. She preceded him in death in 1995. Mr. Boor worked as a supervisor for the Department of Transportation. He retired in 1993 after a long career with the Missouri Highway Department, a career which he was proud of. He was also a member of the Brotherhood Lodge No. 269, A.F. & A.M. He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife. Survivors: son, Steve Boor (Michele); granddaughters, Sara Beaver (Andrew) and Melanie Miller; four great-grandchildren, Austin, Mollie, Olivia, and Tyler; companion, Cora Mae Donovan; and brother, Larry Walker. Services: 1:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Highland Cemetery, Hamilton, Missouri. The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to United Way. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Patricia Lee Jacobs

1961-2013

Patricia Lee Jacobs, 51, St. Joseph, Missouri died Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at Heartland Regional Medical Center. She was born June 29, 1961 to Clarence J. and Sandra K. (McDowell) Jacobs in St. Joseph, Missouri. She received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Missouri Western State College in 1984, and her master’s degree in reading from Northwest Missouri State University in 1996. For 28 years she taught at the Lathrop R-II elementary school. Patricia was baptized and became a member of Central Christian Church in 1980. Survivors: parents, St. Joseph; sister, Cynthia A. Smith (Tayne), Overland Park, Kansas; brother, Jefferson L. Jacobs, St. Joseph; nephews, Jefferson L. Jacobs II (Catherine), Matthew E. Jacobs (Laura), Tayne A. Smith II and Caleb G. Smith; and grand-niece, Sydney. Services: 10:30 A.M. Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Ashland Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where friends may call after 5:00 P.M. Friday. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to Make-A-Wish America, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 6062, Albert Lea, MN 56007-6662. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Dan Schirmer

1921-2013

Dan Schirmer, 92, St. Joseph, Missouri died Wednesday, June 12, 2013 at a local healthcare facility. He was born March 13, 1921 to Barney and Eva (Carpenter) Schirmer in Lewellen, Nebraska. Dan married Mittie Elizabeth “Betty” Schirmer on January 13, 1945. She preceded him in death on January 25, 2008. Mr. Schirmer graduated from Doane College in Crete, Nebraska and later received his Master’s Degree from Harvard University School of Business. He was a sales manager in the automotive business for 35 years, working at Curnett Automotive in Maryville, Missouri and locations in St. Joseph. He also served as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was very proud of his time in the military. He was on the USS O’Brien in Tokyo Bay which escorted the USS Missouri on which Japan signed the surrender agreement. He was a member of Ashland United Methodist Church, St. Joseph, Missouri and First Presbyterian Church in Maryville, Missouri. Mr. Schirmer was also a member of the Downtown Optimists Club, Maryville Lions Club, the Osh-Kosh Lodge No. 286, A.F. & A.M., Scottish Rite, Moila Shrine, and High Twelve Club No. 49. He enjoyed playing cards with friends, was family oriented, and loved spending time outdoors. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and sister, Gladys Walp. Survivors: son, Mark Schirmer (Wendy), Gladstone, Missouri; daughter, Ann Pfeifer (Dan), Maryville, Missouri; grandchildren, Danielle Compton (Derek), Liberty, Missouri, Derek Schirmer, Gladstone, Missouri, Angela Stanley (David), The Woodlands, Texas, and Mindy Gray (Matt Jacoby), Story City, Iowa; and great-grandchildren, Jace, Maddox, Jake, Brooke, Jackson, Colby, and Dylan. Memorial Services: 12:00 Noon Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Inurnment Pleasant Valley Cemetery, Overland Park, Kansas. The family will receive friends 10:30 to 11:30 A.M. Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. For those wishing to make a contribution, the family suggests they be made to Hands of Hope Hospice or Living Community. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Marilyn Mitchell Fisher

1934-2013

Marilyn Mitchell Fisher, 78, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Sunday, June 2, 2013 in Rockwall, Texas. Marilyn was born in St. Joseph on December 30, 1934, to Orestes and Dorothea Mitchell. She grew up in St. Joseph, attended Central High School, graduating in 1952. After receiving her BA degree in Political Science from the University of Missouri, Columbia in 1956, Marilyn moved to Washington D.C. where she enjoyed working for the Central Intelligence Agency. Later she worked for Eastern Airlines. It was there that she met her husband, Charles H. Fisher, and they were married in St. Joseph in 1959. Marilyn and Chuck, who also worked for Eastern Airlines, followed his career to Washington D.C., Atlanta, Georgia, Charlotte, North Carolina, and finally Miami, Florida. Two sons, Charles Jr. (Chuck) and Todd were born to Marilyn and Chuck. Later in Miami, Marilyn worked in property management while the boys were growing up. Marilyn spent many years enjoying family activities with her husband and growing boys. There were great times too numerous to count while at scouting and band activities, camping with her family, and watching her boys grow up. Upon Charles’s passing, Marilyn moved to Ames, Iowa to be close to her mother, Dorothea and sister, Kitty Mitchell Lamont. In Ames, Marilyn worked for an abstract company before retiring. Marilyn was active in her sorority, Alpha Delta Pi, the Daughters of the American Revolution. Marilyn became active in the Ames Opera Guild and enjoyed many great experiences attending performances and hosting get togethers with her friends. She greatly enjoyed traveling, visiting family, reading, and any occasion where friends gathered. Marilyn developed a great passion for genealogy and learning all she could of her family history. She was known to be a very nurturing and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. In early 2008, Marilyn moved to Rockwall, Texas to be close to her son Chuck Fisher and his family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles H. Fisher; parents, Orestes and Dorothea Mitchell; brother, Stephen; and nephew, Bill Lamont. Survivors: sons, Charles H. Fisher, Jr. (Donna), Rockwall, Texas and Todd Fisher (Cee Cee), Woodstock, Georgia; sister, Kitty Mitchell Lamont (John), Ames, Iowa; five grandchildren, Lauren Fisher Collins (Nathan), Caitlin Fisher, Stefan Fisher (Erin), Brent Fisher, and Lindsey Fisher; great-granddaughter, Addison Collins; niece, Kathryn Lamont Whaley (Ryan); nine cousins; and extended family. Graveside services: 10:00 A.M. Friday, Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Gina Gorey

1970-2013

Gina Gorey, 42, St. Joseph, Missouri died Tuesday, June 4, 2013 at Heartland Regional Medical Center. She was born June 29, 1970 to John Gorey and Joy (Lierley) Rock. Gina worked as a librarian at the Downtown St. Joseph Library, a job she truly loved. She also enjoyed canoeing, music, and was an avid reader. Most important to her was spending time with friends and family. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Lee and Kathleen Hawkins and Delbert Lierley. Survivors: mother, Joy Rock (Delmas Burton); loving companion, Chris Poff; father, John Lee Gorey; step-father, John Rock; brothers, Jeffrey Rock and Johnny Gorey; and several uncles, aunts, and cousins. Services: 4:00 P.M. Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family will receive friends 2:00 to 4:00 P.M. Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to American Breast Cancer Foundation. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Sharla A. Sill

1956-2013

Sharla A. Sill, 56, Rosendale, Missouri died Sunday, June 2, 2013 at a local healthcare facility. She was born July 4, 1956 to Leland and Edith (Smith) Strauch in Maryville, Missouri. Sharla married Cleo Sill on December 27, 1980. He preceded her in death. Mrs. Sill was a homemaker and a bookkeeper at St. Joseph Furnace. She was a member of Rosendale Christian Church. She enjoyed taking pictures, collected angels, and loved feeding birds. She was preceded in death by her husband; father; brother, Roger Strauch; and brother-in-law, David Carter. Survivors: sons, Roger Sill, Rosendale, Missouri, Aaron Sill, Savannah, Missouri, Rick Sill, St. Joseph, Missouri, and Jeffrey Sill (Susan), St. Joseph, Missouri; mother, Edith Strauch, Maryville, Missouri; sister, Wanda Sue Carter; brothers, Kenneth Strauch (Sharon), Richard Strauch (Susie), Donnie Strauch (Carol); four grandchildren, Tyler, Michael, Robbie, Sr., and Nicole; five great-grandchildren; and numberous nieces and nephews. Services: 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Rouse Cemetery, Darlington, Missouri. The family will receive friends 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Frank A. Walker

1934-2013

Frank A. Walker, 79, Denison, Texas formerly of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Friday, May 31, 2013, with his son Steve by his side, at Stonebrook Assisted Living in Denison, Texas. He was born March 9, 1934 to Milton and Agnes (Breese) Walker in St. Joseph, Missouri. He married Beverly Sue King in 1955. She preceded him in death in 2002. Frank served in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War retiring in 1972 after 20 years of service. He later worked with the Post Office and again retired after 20 years of service. Frank was an avid golfer, loving husband and a great dad. He was a past member of Ashland United Methodist church where he served as an usher. He was also preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Melvin, Robert, Dave and Ben Walker; sister, Verneal Walker; and grandson, Jeremy Elliott. Survivors: three children, Steve Walker (Brenda), Valory Walker and Denise Roesle (Dick); three grandchildren, Nicole, Natalie and Regina; and four great-grandchildren, Devon, Averi, Ali and R.J. Graveside Services & Interment: 10:00 A.M. Saturday, Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to Noyes Home for Children, 801 Noyes Blvd., St. Joseph, MO 64506. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Doris June (White) Mason

1925-2013

Doris June (White) Mason, 88, passed from this life Saturday, June 1, 2013 at LaVerna Village, Savannah, Missouri after a long illness. June was born on February 2, 1925 to Webster and Irene (Harness) White of Clarksdale, Missouri. June White graduated eighth grade from the Pleasant Grove School, a one-room school east of Clarksdale and from Clarksdale High School in 1943. That same year she entered the Cadet Nurses Corps and the Missouri Methodist Hospital Nursing School in St. Joseph. After graduation as a registered nurse (RN) in 1946, she worked at the Missouri Methodist Hospital and at Sisters Hospital as a ward and then “private duty” nurse until 1966. Then from 1967 until 1980, June started a second career in school nursing at Neely, Everett and Horace Mann Schools in the St. Joseph School District and served on the Board of Directors for the R.L.D.S. World Church Adoption Agency. Prior to illness, she was active in the Community of Christ at the Penn Street Congregation, Abundant Life Center and later attended Seventeenth Street congregation. She had served as choir member, Women’s Director, and Bereavement coordinator. June was also a 33-year cancer survivor. June was preceded in death by her parents; husband, David W. Mason, Sr.; infant children Daniel and Diane; brother and sister-in-law Lloyd and Marilyn White of Savannah, Missouri; and an infant granddaughter, Marianne Rebecca Mason. Survivors: son David W. Mason, Jr. (Lora) of St. Joseph; daughter Gloria June (Mason) Martin (Joe) of Lawrenceville, Georgia; grandchildren Katya (Mason) Woolard of Kansas City, Missouri and Andrew L. Mason (Chandra) of Lenexa, Kansas; nieces and nephews Kathy Meehan (Dennis) of Kansas City, Missouri, Stuart White (Pat) of Rosendale, Missouri, Steven White (Julie) of Savannah, Missouri, and Jana Ruoff (Harold) of Savannah, Missouri. A funeral and celebration of her life will be held 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, Abundant Life Center. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where friends may call after 5:00 P.M. Monday. Mrs. Mason will be removed from the funeral home to arrive at the church one hour prior to the service. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Robert Gene Powell

1921-2013

Robert Gene Powell, 91, St. Joseph, Missouri died peacefully Friday, May 31, 2013 at a local healthcare facility. He was born in Denton, Kansas on December 11, 1921 at his grandparents’ home and then resided in Agency, Missouri for seven years before moving to St. Joseph, Missouri. He was the son of Elmer and Gladys Powell. He graduated from Lafayette High School in 1939. He attended St. Joseph Junior College before enlisting in the Naval Aviation program in WWII. He was commissioned in 1944 and his Naval Career encompassed 22 years before retiring. His initial occupation was in two grocery stores before beginning 44 years of service with the St. Joseph Light and Power Company, where he retired in 1984 as Senior Accountant. During his tenure with that company, he attended five years at Platt-Guard Business School at night school. It was at that company that he met and married Doris June (Daisy) Atkins and having been faithfully married for 63 years. From that marriage two children were born, Nancy Wilson of St. Joseph and a son, Rodney Powell of Vail, Colorado, both whom he was very proud of. In 1928, he started playing the violin and did so for 57 years before setting it aside. During those 57 years, he played in three Christian churches; St. Joseph Symphony Orchestra; the St. Joseph Symphony Orchestra for 12 years; Benedictine College for 12 years; while flying in the daytime during WWII, at night he would play in a night club band in Corpus Christie, Texas before returning home to St. Joseph, where he continued with the light company. Music was his prime love of life. He was quite active in both professional and cultural organizations. He was a member of the St. Joseph Optimist Club; both the St. Joseph Junior and Senior Chamber of Commerce; was quite active in the United Fund, both company and citywide; Treasurer of the Town Hall Center, where he signed the check for the President of the Institute of Management Accounting (Local Chapter); he prepared Senior Citizens Income Taxes for 11 years (post retirement years); advisor for the Junior Achievement Program. Past President Performing Arts Club. His Masonic Association was Past Master of Saxton Lodge; Past Master of two Scottish Rite bodies resulting in KCCH honor man; Moila Shrine Club; 50 year member of those bodies; Legion of Honor; Hi-Twelve Club. His post military associations consisted of Area Chairman of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve where he was recently honored with the Life time Achievement Award from Department of Defense; awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal by Governor Carnahan; was honored by allowing to lay a wreath on the Unknown Soldiers grave in 1992. He was honored by the Missouri House of Representatives in April 1985 for having an honorable and distinguished life through the efforts of Representative Don Randell. He was a Past Elder of the Wyatt Park Christian Church but the greatest accomplishment of his life is that he has read the Bible (both Old and New Testament) 22 times (was on the 23rd) without knowingly missing a night in 72 years. This was realized by his friends reading it to him while in surgery or otherwise unable to read it himself. Mr. Powell was a member of Wyatt Park Christian Church. He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Doris J. Powell. Survivors: daughter, Nancy Wilson (Steve); son, Rodney Powell; and step-brother Curtis Pettigrew (Marion). The family would like to thank the staff of Vintage Gardens North for their excellent care, especially his special friend Loyal Oxley Smith. Services: 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where friends may call after 5:00 P.M. Monday. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to Missouri Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve or Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinsons’ Research. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Garold Lavelle Brown, Sr.

1950-2013

Garold Lavelle Brown, Sr., 62, Ravenwood, Missouri passed away Saturday, June 1, 2013 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born July 9, 1950 to William Harold and Olive Margaret (Crenshaw) Brown. He married Sharon Brand, May 16, 1968 in Hopkins, Missouri. Lavelle proudly served in the Army during the Vietnam War. He had been a member of the World Wide Church of God. He enjoyed bowling, playing bingo, writing poetry and spending time with family and friends. Lavelle graduated from Platt College and worked at LACEDE Chain for over 20 years. Lavelle was preceded in death by his brother, Eugene Brown; son-in-law, Chuck Ebrecht; and nephew, Daniel Joseph Brown. Survivors: wife, Sharon Brown of the home; parents, William and Olive Brown; son, Gary Brown of Ravenwood, Missouri; daughter, Tisha Maupin and husband Alex of Skidmore, Missouri; grandchildren, Cassie, Kade, and Keevin Maupin and Amanda Brown; sister, Elaine Brown and fiancé David Jerde; and brothers, Larry Brown and wife Carol and Danny Brown. Lavelle was fun loving and loved to joke around. He was well liked and will be sorely missed. Services: 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Charles “Orman” Brooner

1934-2013

Charles “Orman” Brooner, 78, St. Joseph, Missouri passed peacefully Saturday, May 25, 2013 at home surrounded by family. Orman was born June 29, 1934, to Charles Brooner and Inez (Moore) Brooner in McClouth, Kansas. On June 20, 1953 Orman married Colleen Froyd in Bedison, MO, who survives of the home. Orman met his loving wife while at a church camp at Camp Farwesta, Stewartsville, MO. They lived for 56 years in the house he built and made a home to raise four children. Orman was a member of the Community of Christ Church, a 1951 graduate of Benton High School, and a 1953 graduate of Graceland University. By trade, Orman was a carpenter and in 1961 started his own company with David Herbert. The business expanded when Rod Thomas joined the company. Today the company continues as Brooner Construction & Crane. Orman directed his company for 52 years before his recent decline in health due to pulmonary fibrosis. Fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping were his favorite pastimes when not working or serving in church activities. As a member of the Community of Christ, he was most recently an ordained minister in the office of evangelist. Greatest of all was his desire to assist others and serve his fellow beings. Orman was beloved by his family and friends and well respected by associates in the construction industry. Orman has served as president of the Building Industries Association and in leadership roles with St. Joseph Planning and Zoning, Health and Safety Council, Graceland University Board of Trustees, Peace Unlimited, Camp Farwesta, and various positions with the Community of Christ Church. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Richard Brooner. Survivors: sisters, Allie Tolbert, Jean Garreth, and Carolyn Hedrick; brother, William Brooner; children, Kirby Brooner, Terri Hamann, Kent Brooner, and Janelle Brooner; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Services: 1:00 P.M. Saturday, Abundant Life Center, Community of Christ. The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where friends may call after 3:00 P.M. Wednesday. The family requests contributions be made to Camp Farwesta, 5124 Faraon St. Joseph, Missouri 64506. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Elaine Marion (Hontros) Cowles

1915-2013

Elaine Marion (Hontros) Cowles, 98, formally of St. Joseph, Missouri died Sunday, May 26, 2013 at The Life Center in Des Moines, Iowa. She was born on March 22, 1915 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Arest and Hilda (Holzhaeuser) Hontros. Elaine grew up in Milwaukee where she met and married Lyle Clinton Cowles in 1939. They were happily married for 43 years. Elaine and Lyle lived in Omaha, Nebraska; Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and St. Joseph, Missouri. After Lyle’s death in 1982, Elaine continued to live in St. Joseph until 2001 when she moved to West Des Moines, Iowa to be closer to her family. In the Des Moines area she lived at The Lodge of Ashworth until moving to The Life Center in June of 2012. Elaine was an accomplished bridge player and enjoyed playing card games with friends and family. She was a member of Ashland United Methodist Church in St. Joseph, Missouri since the 1950s. She enjoyed cooking and in recent years became a big fan of the Food Network. While she never had a nickname growing up, Elaine was delighted that her family called her “GG”, short for Great-Grandmother. Survivors: daughter, Marcia Biklen (Mike) of Muscatine, Iowa; grandchildren, Andrea Biklen (David Hanson) and Bryce Biklen (Pam); and great-grandchildren, Zachary Biklen, Molly Biklen and Noah Hanson. Services: 3:00 P.M. Wednesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends 1:30 to 2:30 P.M. Wednesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Ashland United Methodist Church, 2711 Ashland, Saint Joseph, Missouri 64506-1942. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Patsy R. Ridpath

1934-2013

Patsy R. Ridpath, 78, St. Joseph, Missouri died Sunday, May 27, 2013 at Heartland Regional Medical Center. She was born November 13, 1934 to William and Dollie (Wilson) Harris. She married John H. Ridpath on July 13, 1963. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Nanette Hale; and brothers, Dr. William R. Harris and Dr. Sydney W. Harris. Survivors: husband; sister, Jo Ann Tindle (Buford); five nephews;and four nieces. Services: 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where friends may call after 9 A.M. Wednesday. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Byron D. Milbank, 88 of Maryville, Missouri died on Monday, May 27, 2013, at
his home.
Bryon was born February 7, 1925 in Clearmont, Missouri. He was the son of
the late Eldon Lewis and Sarah Laurel (Reed)  Milbank. He was united in
marriage to Marles Busby, June 7, 1947 at the First United Methodist Church,
in Maryville.  Marles preceded him in death January 5, 2010.

He was a graduate of Northwest Missouri State University and was
owner/operator of the Milbank Oil Company and also farmed near Clearmont,
Missouri.

Bryon was a US Army Veteran of  World War II, serving as a Sergeant in the
Army from 1943 until 1946.

Byron’s other memberships included the First United Methodist Church, Elks
Club and Maryville Country Club, all of Maryville.

Bryon is the last of his group of lifelong friends which included, Ed and
Quentin Gray and Pete Younger.

His survivors include; son, Jim (Terri) Milbank, Cicero, Indiana, daughter,
Jana Lea Jordon, Springboro, Ohio, granddaughter Alexandra (Rodger)
Rothwell, Ventura, California, grandsons Kyle Jordon, Sherman Oaks,
California, Jay D. Milbank, Noblesville, Indiana,Tayler Milbank, Cicero,
Indiana, three great grandchildren Sullivan James Rothwell, Kian Rothwell,
and Bridgett Rothwell, all of Ventura, California and a host of other
friends and loved ones.

Funeral Services will be at 11AM, Friday, May 31, at the First United
Methodist Church, Maryville.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the
services
from 10-11 AM.  Burial:  Oak Hill Cemetery, Maryville.

Memorial:  First United Methodist Church, Maryville or the Maryville High
School Athletic Department

Online condolences may be made to the family at
www.pricefuneralhomemaryville.com

Allison Lea “Poppy” Calfee, 49, Hopkins, Missouri died on Monday, May 27,
2013, at her home in Hopkins.

Poppy was born February 25, 1964 in Maryville, Missouri, the daughter of
Raymond Elvin and Alice Faye  (Kreps) Cross.  She was united in marriage to
John F. Calfee October 5, 2002 in Hopkins.

Poppy was a member of First Christian Church, Hopkins, and the American
Association of Certified Professional Coders, and a graduate of North
Nodaway High School Class of 1982.

Poppy was a Certified Professional Coder for Saint Francis Hospital,
Maryville.

Poppy was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Cross on February 5,
2003.

Survivors include; Husband John, of the home, Hopkins, son Luke Ramsey and
fiance’ Trista Booher, Bedford, Iowa, daughter Ali RaeAnn Ramsey and friend
Kiel Brittain, Clarinda, Iowa, from her first marriage, one granddaughter
Madiysn Ramsey, Bedford, mother Alice Cross, brother Raymond “Skeeter”
Cross, and sister Marcia (Randy) Beason, all of Hopkins.

Funeral services will be held 10 AM, Thursday, May 30, 2013 at the Hopkins
Christian Church, where visitation will be held from 5-7 PM, Wednesday.
Interment will be in the Hopkins Cemetery.

Memorial:  SSM Hospice and Healthcare Foundation,

Nancy A. Frad

1944-2013

Nancy A. Frad, 69, Hiawatha, Kansas died Thursday, May 23, 2013 at her home. She was born April 16, 1944 to Virgil and Grace Simpson in Sparks, Kansas. Nancy was a member of Seventh Day Adventist Church in Troy, Kansas. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Alan Wayne Simpson; and a great-grandson, Davane Chilson. Survivors: sons, Kirk Watson, Darle Watson, Jr, Randy Watson, and Orrel Berry; daughters, Melinda Pattangall, Kris Berry, Kimberly Isenberg, and Angela Berry; ten grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren; and sisters, Virginia Rhodes, Janet Pfaffly, and Bonnie Miller. There will be a memorial picnic at Hiawatha Lake 11:00 A.M. Saturday, June 1, 2013 where family and friends will meet. Sam Blythe officiating. Online guest book and obituary at www.kansascremation.com.

John Roy Murphy

1937-2013

John Roy Murphy, 75, Dearborn, Missouri died Saturday, May 25, 2013 at his residence. He was born June 11, 1937 to John and Lila (Foster) Murphy. John was a cattle farmer and enjoyed all shooting sports. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Charles Thomas Murphy. Survivors: niece, Jennifer Murphy Pyatt (Rob), Faucett, Missouri; and two great-nephews, Robert and Alexander Pyatt. Graveside Service and Interment: 1:00 P.M. Thursday, Turner Cemetery Wallace, Missouri. Care provided by Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to St. Francis Xavier School. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.