Chris Shell
1954-2016

Chris Shell, 61, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at Mosaic Life Care.
She was born September 10, 1954 in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Chris married Terry Shell on July 10, 1971.
She was preceded in death by her father, Louis Allaman Wilson.
Survivors include husband; son, Jamie Shell (Century), Overland Park, Kansas; daughters, Stephanie Golden (Chris), St. Joseph, Missouri and Mandy Shell, Prairie Village, Kansas; mother, Audrey Arlene (Ashworth) Wilson; grandchildren, Mackenzie and Calista Shell and Hadley and Lucas Golden; sisters, Kitty Stone (John) and Starla Wilson; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 4:00 to 6:00 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 Mosaic Cancer Center. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Patricia “Pat” O’Dell
1947-2016

Patricia “Pat” O’Dell, 68, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016 at Mosaic Life Care.
She was born February 24, 1947 in St. Joseph, Missouri and was a graduate of LeBlond High School.
Pat married Michael Steven O’Dell on November 15, 1968.
She enjoyed her pets, crossword puzzles, gambling and writing stories, but most of all, Pat loved spending time with her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Anna (Mihelic) Falkenbach; and grandson, Kabrin Rinehart.
Survivors include husband; daughters, Stacy Clevenger (David) and Susan Rinehart; grandson, Christian Kiehne; sister, Christina Smith (Larry); and several nieces and nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 A.M. Monday, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. Parish Rosary 6:00 P.M. Sunday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family will gather with friends 6:30 to 8:00 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 M’Shoogy’s Pet and Animal Rescue. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Raymond “Ray” Loessy
1944-2016

Raymond “Ray” Loessy, 71, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016 at Mosaic Life Care.
He was born July 5, 1944 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Raymond married Jane Dickinson on July 9, 1969.
He was a ring man at G & G Auctions in Rushville and stopped at every auction and yard sale he would see. Ray enjoyed buying and selling and loved life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Sophie (Germscheid) Loessy; brother, Harry Loessy; niece, Vicki Loessy; and aunt, Mary Germscheid.
Survivors include wife; sister-in-law, Martha Loessy; brother and sister-in-law, Sally Mallery (Bob); and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.
Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family suggests donations to the American Heart Association or a charity of the donor’s choice. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Terry Kay Heitman
1938-2016

Terry Kay Heitman, 77, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016 at a local healthcare facility.
She was born December 9, 1938 in Holton, Kansas. The daughter of George, Sr. and Carolina (Winder) Bradley. She lived most of her life in St. Joseph.
Ms. Heitman retired from Methodist Hospital. Terry was a member of Hope Evangelical Lutheran in Maryville, Missouri.
Affectionately known as Mamma, Teresa Kay, Aunt T, G.G., and Tootsie. She enjoyed camping, fishing, and working in the yard. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and enjoyed entertaining them. She will be missed by all, but at last is free.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Carolina (Winder) Bradley; father, George Bradley, Sr.; sister, Bobbi Dietderich; and husband, Ronald Heitman, Sr.
Survivors include two daughters, Stacey Grace and Carlene Heath; one son, Ronald Ray Heitman, Jr.; one sister, Nancy Davis; three brothers, Gary Bradley, Wayne Bradley, and George Bradley, Jr.; seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Farewell Services 3:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Ashland Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 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 Three Rivers Hospice. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Darlene McDonald
1938-2016

Darlene McDonald, 77, Randolph, Nebraska passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016.
She was born October 15, 1938 in Pierce County, Nebraska.
Darlene married Robert Joseph McDonald on December 10, 1961 and he preceded her in death on December 26, 2012.
She was a Bookkeeper at Dawson Oil & Gas Company and was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and the VFW both in Randolph, Nebraska.
She loved to sew and quilt and liked to be outside working in her garden. Darlene owned a ceramic shop for several years.
She was also preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Ellen (Manske) Riedel; brother, Herman Riedel, Jr.; and sister-in-law, Donna Riedel.
Survivors include son, Robert McDonald, Jr. (Sandi), Randolph, Nebraska; daughters, Valerie Wilkinson, St. Joseph, Missouri and Michelle Raine (Dean), Lake View, Iowa; grandchildren, Brady, Brandi and Kasie, Rylie and Blake, Jordan and Tanner; great-grandchildren, Millie and Ruby; sisters, Barbara VanBrocklin (Bill), Charlene Chervek (Bob) and Alvina Deitloff (Junior); brothers, Rueben and Ronnie Riedel (Shari); sister-in-law, Melba Riedel; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at a later date in Nebraska. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Carlyn M. Meudt
1927 – 2016

Carlyn M. Meudt, 88, Atchison, Kansas died Thursday, February 18, 2016 at the Atchison Hospital.
Visitation with the family will be Sunday, February 21, 2016 from 2:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. in the chapel of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the activities fund at Medicalodge Nursing Center, Atchison United Methodist Church or Atchison Humane Society and may be left in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Mrs. Meudt has been cremated, burial will be at a later date in Mt. Vernon Cemetery.
Carlyn was born May 7, 1927 in Peekskill, New York the daughter of Victor C. and Alma G. Knight Olson. She attended Franklin Elementary School, graduating from Atchison High School. She studied and graduated from the Art Institute in Kansas City, Missouri.
She and Warren R. “Bob” Meudt were united in marriage in Atchison, Kansas. Mr. Meudt preceded her in death on January 6, 1982.
Carlyn worked as an artist and designer. She formerly designed numerous window displays in major department stores on Fifth Avenue in New York City and Kansas City. She also formerly was employed with Olson Elevator in Atchison and with McCormick Distillery in Weston, Missouri.
She was a member of Atchison United Methodist Church. She was a member of V.F.W. Post #1175 Auxiliary and American Legion Auxiliary. Carlyn was an avid golfer at both Bellevue Country Club and Pineview Country Club. She enjoyed playing cards, gambling and attending the casinos.
Survivors include three sons, David Meudt, Kansas City, KS, Benjamin (Sheri) Meudt, Grand Island, NE, Mark (MaryAnn) Meudt, Atchison, KS, two daughters, Sandy (David) Golden, Kansas City, MO, Pam Wilbanks, Kansas City, MO, five grandchildren, four step-grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Sonny Olson.

Milton Eugene Long
1924 – 2016

Milton Eugene Long, 91, of Saint Joseph, Missouri passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016 at his home. He was born July 9, 1924 in St. Joseph, MO, son of Mary Alice and Henry Long. He served in the United States Army, and he is a veteran of the World War II. Milton worked as a Truck Driver for Land Construction. He was a member of the Patee Park Baptist Church. Milton was preceded in death by his parents, three wives, Beverly Jean Long, Pearl Boller Long, and Beverly Lawhon Long, a daughter, Sandra Wright, and 3 sisters, Ruth Ann, Mary Katherine, and Opal. Survivors include: a daughter, Debbie Barlos of Joplin, MO., three sons, Ron Long of Mesa, AZ, Brad Long of Linneus, MO, and Ernie Long of Gilbert, AZ, several grandchildren, and a brother, Lewis Long of St. Joseph, MO.
A graveside inurnment service will be conducted at 2:00 PM Wednesday, at the Frazier Cemetery, Frazier, Missouri. Chaplain Alan Pruitt officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the Fountains at Corby Place, 422 Felix St., St. Joseph, MO. for refreshments and sharing memories.

Fern Dixon
1929-2015

Fern Dixon, 86, Cosby, Missouri passed away Friday, February 19, 2016 at LaVerna Village in Savannah, Missouri.
She was born June 28, 1929, to Pryor and Bertha Schottel in Cosby, Missouri.
Fern married Carlton Dixon September 22, 1948 who preceded her in death on May 14, 2008.
She was a member of Hope United Church of Christ, The Order of the Eastern Star Cosby Chapter and a leader in 4-H. In her younger years she worked at Westab and later as a cook at the Avenue City School District, a job she enjoyed very much. She also gardened and loved spending time with her grandkids.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Gary Dixon, and brother, Pryor Schottel, Jr.
Survivors include daughters, Gail Fankhauser (Glenn) and Janet Miller (Mark); sons, Brad Dixon (Kristie) and Clay Dixon (Tami); sister, Fay Gurwell (Ray); 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends and her wonderful caregivers at LaVerna Village.
Farewell Services 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where friends may call after 5:00 P.M. Monday. The family suggests memorial gifts to Hope United Church of Christ or Avenue City School. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Audrey Clair Heck
1925-2016

Audrey Clair Heck, 91, St. Joseph, formerly of Mound City, Missouri passed away February 19, 2016 at Tiffany Heights in Mound City to Robert Earl and Sidney Rosetta (Nay) Heck. He graduated from Bellevue High School north of Mound City.
Audrey was among 27 young men from Holt County that left for the army March 15, 1945. They were to be part of the invasion force in Japan, but after the atom bomb was dropped in August of 1945, he ended up in Manila, Philippines. He came home from the service December 25, 1946 and resumed farming.
Audrey married Phyllis Rader May 20, 1951, his wife of 64 years. They had three daughters.
He was a member of the First Christian Church in Mound City, he later moved to St. Joseph where he attended Wyatt Park Baptist church.
He was a strong supporter and fifty year member of the Kiwanis Club, Audrey served as the Missouri-Arkansas district lieutenant governor. He got the club involved with recycling old batteries to fund numerous Kiwanis scholarships for local students. He was a member of the Paul Shutts American Legion Post No. 121.
Audrey was a livestock and grain farmer. In 1961 he purchased the Mound City John Deere Dealership, which he operated for over thirty years. He constructed Audrey’s Motel in 1975.
When he retired he moved to St. Joseph. He spent his winter months in his home in California and traveling.
He is survived by his wife, Phyllis; his daughters, Cathy Saxton (Dan), Bolckow, Missouri, Cynthia Davis (Dr. Larry), Philadelphia, and Christine Livengood (Jeff), Craig, Missouri; grandchildren, Dr. Marlie Williams (Travis), St. Joseph, Sheldon Saxton (Tauni), Maryville, Missouri, Michael Saxton (Amanda), Savannah, Missouri, Dr. Ryan Davis (Shai), Davis, CA, Randall Davis (Eugenia), Albany, New York, Dr. of Pharmacy, Jeremy Davis (Lindsey), St. Louis, and Jessica Cope (Tanner), Hico, Texas; great grandchildren, Wyatt and Taylor Williams, Tristen and Cayden Saxton, Keaton and Carson Saxton, Ian Davis, Maura Davis, and Reagan Cope; sister, Joyce Lyle; sister-in-law, Dorothy Heck; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Virgil, Garney, Marshall, Dean, Darrell, Jr., and Irvin; sister, Mildred; sister-in-laws, Louise, Jerry, Audrey, Wilda, Billie, and Donna Mae; brothers-in-law, Berwyn Hamilton and Homer Lyle; and infant great grandson, Liam Saxton.
Farewell Services 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, First Christian Church, Mound City. Interment Mt. Hope Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the Church. The family suggests memorials to First Christian Church, Mt. Hope Cemetery, or Water Fowlers Hall of Fame, all in Mound City. Online guest book and obituary at www.pettijohncrawford.com.

Donna Mae Heck
1926-2016

Donna Mae Heck, 89, Mound City, Missouri passed away Monday, February 15, 2016.
She was born August 14, 1926 in Maitland, Missouri.
Donna married Darrell Heck on July 7, 1945.
Donna worked faithfully alongside her husband at the farm and was a very active member of Maitland United Methodist Church in Maitland, Missouri.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents, Oye and Elsie (Prussman) Bowland; sisters, Alice Baxter and Lorene Davison; four brothers, Lee, Maurice, Glen and Lynn Bowland; and daughter-in-law, Barbara Heck.
Survivors include sons, Larry Heck (Debbie), Maitland, Missouri and Allen Heck, St. Joseph, Missouri; brother, Kenneth Bowland, Skidmore, Missouri; sister, Lucille Boswell, Maitland, Missouri; four granddaughters, Michelle (Chris Darnell) Heck, Auburn, Nebraska, Lindsay (Darrin) Clayton, Lee’s Summitt, Missouri, Alyssa (Jeff) Flynn, Ladera Ranch, California and Andrea (Kevin) Plummer, Platte City, Missouri; seven great-granddaughters; and one step-great-grandson.
Farewell Services 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, Maitland United Methodist Church, Maitland, Missouri. Interment Maitland Cemetery. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service, Maitland United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Maitland United Methodist Church. Online guest book and obituary at www.pettijohncrawford.com.

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James “Jimmy” H. Williams
1953-2016

James “Jimmy” H. Williams, 62, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Sunday, February 14, 2016 at his home.
He was born October 10, 1953 in Saratoga Springs, New York.
Jimmy worked at Montugue Machine for 20 years and later worked at BMS Logistics for 15 years and retired in October 2015.
He loved spending time with his family and friends and playing pool, golf and enjoyed bowling.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Mae (Dubie) Williams; and aunt, Louise Snow.
Survivors include daughter, Victoria Bowen (Marven); grandsons, Corey and John; brothers, Robert Williams (Melissa) and Lester Williams; nieces and nephews, Laura Khron (Pali), Scott Williams, Timothy Graves (Lindsey), Jennifer Williams, Michael King (Jamie), Dawn Ledbetter and Fleisha Williams; and great nieces and nephews, Patrick Williams, Jr., Deanna Khron, Sierra Khron, Jacob King, Spencer Williams, Shelby Williams, Allie Graves and Trevor Graves.
The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Patricia Mejia
1938-2016

Patricia Mejia, 77, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Monday, February 15, 2016 at a local healthcare facility.
She was born August 21, 1938 in Louisburg, Kansas.
Patricia married Rudy Mejia in 1973 and they later divorced.
She worked as a store manager at various places for over 20 years retiring from Wal-Mart in 2003.
She was a devoted Christian who studied scriptures and read her Bible daily. Patricia was also an artist and enjoyed sci-fi movies.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Seyd Havens and Flora and Larry Blatt; brother, Larry Blatt; and sister, Shirley Kierns.
Survivors include daughters, Robyn Stephens (Chris) and Tammy Newman (Gene); sons, Robert Steven Johnson and Patrick Johnson (Karen); grandchildren, Alena, Aaron, Amelia, Lauren, Monica, Elexis, Caleb, Alyssa, David, Steven, Javin, Joshua, Aleshia, Hannah and Sarah; sixteen great-grandchildren; brother, Chuck Havens (Judy); and sister-in-law, Nancy Blatt.
Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Sugar Creek Cemetery, Rushville, Missouri. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Robert E. Pettis
1939-2016

Robert E. Pettis, 76, Roach, Missouri passed away Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, Missouri, where his courageous battle with ALS ended.
Robert “Bob” was born on July 26, 1939 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Glenn and Pauline Pettis. He was a graduate of Benton High School. On June 13, 1959 he was married to Patricia Biddle in Maryland.
Bob served in the US Navy from 1957 to 1961. Upon returning from the service he worked for the St. Joseph Police Department for 7 years. He then started working for Herzog Construction for their railroad domain when he first started with them. Leaving there he went into business on his own doing asphalt paving.
In 1977 he left asphalt paving to start his career as an Aerial Applicator once his children were older. He would spray in the summer months while then driving a semi over the road in the winter months with his wife.
In 1986 they took over the Atlantic Iowa Municipal Airport as manager, with his wife at his side as assistant manager. While managing the airport he grew his business and sprayed out of the locations of Atlantic, Harlan and Shenandoah, Iowa. After 22 years he retired as manager of the airport and he semi-retired to the Lake of the Ozarks.
He was preceded in death by his son, Monty G. Pettis; parents; and brother, John R. Smith.
Survivors include wife, Pat; daughters, Laurie Brown (Jerry) and Kim Bally (Jim), both of St. Joseph, Missouri; grandchildren, Jeremy, Dathan, Jared, Aaron, Mallory, Cayleigh, Stephanie, Jacob and Darin; six great-grandchildren; beloved pet, Molly; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Farewell Services 3:00 P.M. Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where friends may call after 9:00 A.M. Friday. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to ALS Association or the American Cancer Association. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

A. Gene Ricci
1933-2016

A. Gene Ricci, 82, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away unexpectedly at his home February 16, 2016.
He was born October 19, 1933 in Paola, Kansas. He married Katherine Diane Kuhnert on June 8, 1957 at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. His final working years as a realtor were with Summer Realty where he retired in 1997.
He enjoyed world travel and made a stop in Las Vegas at every opportunity.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Aurelio and Mary (Cipparrone) Ricci.
Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Diane, of the home; son, David; daughter, Suzanne and husband Jason Atkinson; grandchildren, Madison and Jayla Atkinson and Skylar Womach; special friend, Kathryn Pearl; and sister-in-law, Jeannette Cobb.
Mass of Christian Burial 1:00 P.M. Saturday, Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. For those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to Noyes Home for Children, 801 N. Noyes, St. Joseph, MO 64506. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

John Thomas Nurski Jr.
1926-2016

John Thomas Nurski Jr.89, of Saint Joseph, MO passed away Sunday, February 14, 2016 at Mosaic life care hospital. He was born July 14, 1926 in St. Joseph, MO, son of Balbina and John Nurski Sr. He attended Christian Brothers High School, then served in the United States Army and is a veteran of World War II serving in Germany. He retired from the St. Joseph News-Press after 44 years of service as line type operator. He enjoyed all sports, coaching his sons baseball teams, he also loved to fish and go to the boat. John was an active member of several organizations including the American Legion Post #359, V.F.W. post #6760, and the Knights of Columbus council # 571. He was a former member of St. Stanislaus Catholic church and a member of St. James Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, and wife, Dorothy Nurski. Survivors include three sons; Martin (Mary) Nurski, Kenneth O. Nurski, and Jerome (Tracy) Nurski all of St. Joseph, MO, two daughters, Sherry Nurski of St. Joseph, MO, and Diane Gillette of Newnan, GA, 10 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, February 18, 2016, at 11:00 am at the St. James Catholic Church, Father Evan Harkins Celebrant. The Rosary will be recited at 6:00 pm Wednesday at the Rupp Funeral Home, and the family will receive friends until 8:00 PM . The Interment will be at the Mount Olivet Cemetery. Online condolence and obituary at www.ruppfuneral.com.

Cheyenne D. Mathews
(August 29, 1950 – February 9, 2016)

Cheyenne D. Mathews departed this world February 9, 2016 while sleeping peacefully and with her husband at her side.

The body has been cremated and no services are scheduled at this time. Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home.

Cheyenne was born August 29, 1950 in Childress, Texas, the daughter of Jotham and Sally (Ashbrook) Taylor. She married Michael G. Mathews on September 15, 1966 in Martinez, California.

She was a devoted wife, best friend and mother for forty-nine years; and a very proud grandmother.

Cheyenne especially enjoyed helping raise her grandson and exploring the countryside with her husband while riding their Harleys. She will be dearly missed by family and those that were extremely lucky to be considered her friends.

Survivors include her husband, Michael Mathews, of the couple’s home, a daughter, Michelle Krock, and a grandson, Michael Krock.

Harold D. Sommers
Born: April 21, 1930
Died: February 14, 2016

Hiawatha, KS Harold Sommers, 85, of Hiawatha died Sunday morning, February 14, 2016 at The Pines Care Center in Hiawatha.

He was born in Hiawatha, Kansas on April 21, 1930 to Harry and Florence Buckley Sommers. After graduating from Highland High School in 1948, he received an Associates degree from Highland Community College. He attended numerous military schools including Vietnamese Language School in Ft Bliss, Texas, and Command and General Staff College in Leavenworth.

Harold married Marilyn Keebler on March 6, 1955. Their first year of marriage was enjoyed on the island of Oahu, Hawaii where he was stationed at Scofield Barracks. Harold and Marilyn moved from Hawaii to Robinson in April of 1956 and bought a farm, which marked the start of a 40 year farming career until their retirement in 1996 to Hiawatha. Last March, they celebrated 60 years of marriage.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Maxine. Survivors include his wife Marilyn, and their three children: Brad (Jane) Sommers of Robinson, Brian (Melody) Sommers of Denver, Co; and Susan Sommers (Larry Roeder) of Hiawatha. Six grandchildren – Matt, Laura, Kyla, Kari, Keith and Kaleb held a special place in his heart, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Harold was active in the Highland and Hiawatha communities. He was a lifelong member of the Highland Christian Church where he served as elder and Chairman of the Board. Affiliations include Smithton Masonic Lodge #1, AF&AM, of Highland and past master, Robinson Farmer’s Coop Board, and Hiawatha Hospital Board. Harold obtained private, commercial, and instrument pilot ratings; and held an aerial photography contract for 22 counties with USDA for eight years. Other hobbies included being an accomplished photographer, building ham radio equipment, woodworking, hunting and trap shooting, water and snow skiing, and the pursuit of technical knowledge. Over the course of his life, Harold traveled to all 50 states and three continents. His positive attitude, sense of humor, and readiness to help others endured throughout his life.

Brigadier General Sommers enlisted in the Kansas Army National Guard in 1951, receiving a direct commission to Second Lieutenant in 1952 in Headquarters Battery, 154th Field Artillery. He was ordered to active duty during the Korean War in 1953. After his return, he served as battery commander of 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery before being mobilized in 1968 for the Vietnam War. After attending a Vietnamese language school, he served as a US Military Advisor; assigned to train, advise, and mentor a South Vietnamese artillery battalion during 1969.

In 1974, he was promoted to battalion commander of the 2nd Battalion, 130th Field Artillery and then commander of the 130th Field Artillery Brigade. Later appointments included Deputy Commander, State Area Command, and being promoted to General in 1984. He retired in 1986, and was inducted into the Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame in 2003.

Friends mall call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland after 10 a.m. Thursday. The Masonic Rights Ceremony will be held at 6 p.m., followed by the family visiting with friends.

Celebration of life service will be Friday, February 19, at 2 pm at the Highland Christian Church, with Reverend Brian Sommers officiating, assisted by Pastor Tom Carter. Burial and military honor services will follow at the Highland Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Highland Christian Church, National Guard Museum, American Breast Cancer Society, or Masonic Lodge Scholarship fund. Memorials may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33, Highland, KS 66035.

SERVICES
Celebration of Life Service
Friday, February 19, 2016
2:00 PM

Highland Christian Church
102 E Main Stree
Highland, Kansas 66035

Thelma V. Wolfe
Born: December 24, 1911
Died: February 14, 2016

Thelma V. Wolfe, 104, of Hiawatha, went to be with her God, Sunday, February 14, 2016, at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha, where she had resided since 2008.

Thelma was born December 24, 1911, north of Everest, Kansas, at the farm home of her parents, one of six children of Clemens and Emma Bengston Geiger. She attended Evergreen District 69 Grade School and later graduated from Hiawatha High School with the class of 1930.

Mrs. Wolfe was a life time member of Upper Wolf Lutheran Church, south of Robinson. Thelma also taught Sunday school there, and was active with ELCW (Evangelical Lutheran Christian Women) of the Church. She was also a life member of the Hiawatha Hospital Guild, and Brown County Historical Society.

Thelma married Harmon “Pete” Wolfe, February 25, 1940, at the Lutheran Church. They farmed until he retired and they moved to Hiawatha January 1985. He died October 27, 2009. She was also preceded in death by her parents; three sisters and two brothers: Enola Oltjen, Milton Geiger, Ruby Wakeman, Virgil Geiger, and Elma Beckley.

Survivors include a number of nieces, nephews, and many friends.

The family would like to thank Maple Heights for their continuous care and concern for Thelma.

A Celebration of Thelma’s Life is planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, February 20, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha. Interim Pastor Steve Evans, of Zion/Upper Wolf Lutheran Churches, will officiate. Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Friday. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggested memorial contributions to the Brown County Historical Society or a favorite charity of the donor’s choice, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

SERVICES
Celebration of Life Service
Saturday, February 20, 2016
11:00 AM

Chapel Oaks Funeral Home – Hiawatha
124 S. 7th St.
Hiawatha, Kansas 66434

Theodore “Ted” P. Beien
(January 30, 1930 – February 13, 2016)

Theodore P. “Ted” Beien, 86, Atchison, Kansas died Saturday, February 13, 2016 at the Atchison Hospital.

Mass of Christian burial will be Thursday, February 18, 2016, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Benedict’s Church with Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB as celebrant. Visitation with the family will be Thursday, from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. at the church. The body will be cremated following the services with inurnment in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to Atchison Catholic Charities and may be left in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with whom the final arrangements have been entrusted.

Ted was born January 30, 1930 in Orleans, Nebraska the son of Peter and Elizabeth Conradi Beien. He attended schools in Effingham, Kansas graduating from Atchison County Community High School.

He and Nancy J. Schooler were united in marriage on May 4, 1957 in Atchison, Kansas.

Ted served with the United States Air Force from December 26, 1950 until his honorable discharge at Camp Kilmer, New Jersey on December 6, 1954.

He worked in the maintenance department of Rockwell International Corporation for 37 years until his retirement.

Ted was a member of St. Benedict Parish, participating at Sacred Heart Church, a member of Sacred Heart Council #723 of the Knights of Columbus, William T. Jochems General Assembly #1716 Fourth Degree, the Fleming-Jackson-Seever Post #6 of the American Legion and a former member of the Forty and Eight.

In his spare time he was an avid gardener, tending especially to his roses and his vegetable garden. He enjoyed reading, camping, dancing and most of all spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was also known as a fixer upper with projects around the house.

Survivors include his wife of fifty eight years, Nancy, of the home, a son, Richard Beien, San Tan Valley, AZ, two daughters, Michelle (Kevin) Swords, Atchison, KS, Sissy (Rocky) Weber, Lawrence, KS, four grandchildren, Thad Kasper, Celia Kasper, Jacob Weber, Vance Weber, and a sister-in-law, Jean Beien, Cummings, KS.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Sylvester, Beien, Matt Beien, five sisters, Marquerite Sanders, Anna Peak, Delphine Schockley, Josephine Ladwig and Verna Linscott.

Charlene E. Grayson
1935-2016

Charlene E. Grayson, 80, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Wednesday, February 10, 2016 at a local healthcare facility.
She was born August 14, 1935 in Lathrop, Missouri.
Charlene worked as a cosmetologist for 40 years and as an assembler for MEADS products before retiring in 2000.
Mrs. Grayson was a member of Hope Fellowship Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Tapp and Colene (Finley) Weston; husband, Calvin Grayson; and siblings, Mary Weston, Leon Weston, Glenn Weston, Sr., Archie Weston and Barbara Bell.
Survivors include her daughter, Charrayle Grayson, St. Joseph; and nine siblings, Clara Botts, Seattle, Washington, Ruth Watson (Glen, Sr.), Elwood, Kansas, Doris Nance, Seattle, Washington, Donna Sue Weston, St. Joseph, Oliver Weston, St. Joseph, Floyd Weston, St. Joseph, James Weston (Marjorie), St. Joseph, Larry Weston, St. Joseph and Deborah Weston, St. Joseph.
Farewell Services 10:00 A.M. Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with 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 St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Joseph Friedman, D.P.M.
1920-2016

Joseph Friedman, D.P.M., 95, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Friday, February 12, 2016 at a local healthcare facility.
Dr. Friedman was a 1937 graduate of Central High School and a 1939 graduate of St. Joseph Junior College. In 1941, he entered Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago. His school was interrupted December 7, 1941, when Pearl Harbor was bombed.
Friedman entered the Army July 1942, and rose rapidly through the ranks to staff sergeant, giving credit to his high school ROTC training. In June 1943, he entered officer candidate school and upon graduation was commissioned second lieutenant. Friedman was with Patton’s Third Army troops as they liberated the first concentration camp at Ohrdruf, Germany, a satellite of the infamous Buchenwald Camp. After several months in Europe Friedman was promoted to first lieutenant and alter earned a battlefield promotion to captain from Major General William Robertson.
From May 1945 to March 1946, Friedman worked in the Displaced Persons Camps to help repatriate Eastern and Western Europeans who had been slave laborers for the Nazi war machine. For his work in these camps he received six Commendation Letters that led to the Army Commendation Medal. After discharge in 1946, he returned to podiatric college, graduating cum laude in 1949 and practiced in St. Joseph from 1949-1962.
Dr. Friedman was a member of Temple Adath Joseph, Temple B’nai Sholem and past president of B’nai Brith Joseph Lodge #73, Kiwanis, and St. Joseph Community Theater. He had 50-year pins from the Masonic Lodge Scottish Rite and Moila Shrine Temple. Friedman received three keys to the city: from Mayor Stanley Dale in 1954, from Mayor David Polsky in 1983, from Mayor Larry Stobbs in 2000.
From 1952-1962, Friedman’s hobby was appearing in St. Joseph Community Theater plays. In May 1962, he closed his podiatry office and joined a melodrama troupe in Colorado, touring Aspen, Leadville and Breckenridge until the season closed on Labor Day 1962. He then left for NY to pursue a career in theater. He studied at Circle in the Square in Greenwich Village. While at the school he appeared in “Desire under the Elms” with George C. Scott and Colleen Dewhurst. He also studied with NY’s leading voice coach Earl Rogers.
In 1964, he appeared in his first Broadway play “The Deputy”. During this time he met and later married his late wife, Gladys, a native New Yorker. At that time, Dr. Friedman began studying musical comedy with the famed Charles Nelson Reilly. He also began a series of appearances in several soap operas. In order to join the Actor’s Union he was obliged to change his name, thus, Joel Fredrick was born.
In the summer of 1965, he appeared at Elitch’s Summer Stock in Denver, Colorado, with Eve Arden, Hal March, Pierre Aumont, Hermione Gingold, Phil Ford, Mimi Hines and Kitty Carlisle. After returning to NY Dr. Friedman appeared in his second Broadway show “minor Miracle.” Then late Charles Nelson Reilly asked him to appear in “Confetti.” Hal Prince Productions casting director Shirley Rich was in the audience. The next morning she called Dr. Joe and asked him to audition for “Fiddler on the Roof”, which had been running for two years on Broadway. He was put in a touring company of Fiddler, which led to three years and 2840 performances. The company played 34 states and all the provinces of Canada. In 1969, the Fiddler Company opened at the Union Plaza Hotel in Las Vegas where Friedman did two shows a night for four months. While appearing at the Linde Opera House in LA, his wife auditioned and was cast in the role of the innkeeper’s wife. Both were in the show for another year.
There followed summer packages of “Fiddler” with Theodore Bickel and with Jan Pierce. Friedman also played Thomson, Secretary of the Second Continental Congress in the musical “1776”. A five-week tour of “The World of Paddy Chayefsky” produced by Arthur Cantor consisted of three one-acts taken from the “Tenth Man” in which he played a rabbi; “Gideon” in which he played Lord Angel; and “The Passion of Joseph D” in which he played Lenin. There followed in rapid succession three more off-Broadway productions. In 1972, tiring of touring and wanting to do more television and film, Joe and Gladys moved to LA to explore new fields.
For the next 34 years Dr. Friedman appeared “All in the Family,” “Maude,” “Streets of San Francisco” and “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” as an Ed Asner dancer and look-alike. Movies followed: “The Big Fix,” “The Frisco Kid” with Gene Wilder and Harrison Ford, “Won Ton Ton the Dog Who Saved Hollywood,” and “Grease.” TV movies and specials included “Panic on Page One,” a Johnny Cash Christmas show, “Escape from Hell,” “Bob Hope’s Tribute to Vaudeville” with Lucille Ball and Bernadette Peters, “It’s a Fad, Fad, Fad, Fad World” with the late Richard Dawson, and “Androcles and the Lion.’
For 15 years he worked for Goodson-Todman, producers of “Match Game”, “Price is Right”, “Pyramid” and “Family Feud” as a celebrity stand-in. He worked as an actor, writer, and researcher with host Jack Palance on Jack Haley, Jr./Ron Lyon Productions of “Ripley’s Believe It or Not,” which ran for five years. In July, 1983, Palance, Jack Haley, Jr. and film crew along with Friedman came to St. Joseph to film stories on the Pony Express, The Patee House, Jesse James and the first bank west of the Mississippi robbed after the Civil War.
Next came the research and documentation for the 1989 premier of “The Making of a Movie Classic: The Wizard of Oz,” hosted by Angela Lansbury. Shortly after “National Geographic” hired Friedman to do research and documentation for “Secrets of the Titanc” with famed Dr. Robert Ballard who, with his crew, found the Titanic. For this Dr. Friedman received the first Emmy presented in the research category.
In 1991, Joe and Gladys came to St. Joseph to receive the MWSU Distinguished Alumni Award. They moved back to St. Joseph in 1994. Mrs. Friedman succumbed a year later to cancer. After a period of grieving, Dr. Friedman plunged into civic activities, including talks on the Holocaust. These lectures started when the Friedmans were living in LA and a high school teacher in the San Fernando Valley told his students that the Holocaust did not exist. The LA community challenged the instructor. Together with Henry Winkler, the Fonz “Happy Days”, and a Auschwitz survivor, they toured high schools to tell the true story of the Holocaust. Friedman gave an oral history for both the US Holocaust Memorial Museum and Steven Spielberg’s Shoah foundation on his experiences working with concentration camp survivors and Displaced Persons.
Dr. Friedman gave many lectures and musical performances in St. Joseph to raise money for local charities. In 1998 he received the Mayor’s Award for Individual Artists. In 2004, Joe received the prestigious Jefferson Award, often referred to as the Nobel Prize for outstanding community and public service to our nation and has been described as a philanthropist and raconteur. Friedman wrote numerous articles for the News-Press, national magazines, and a feature story “A Memory of My Father” for Guideposts magazine later appeared in the book Best Loved Short Stories of 1998.
Dr. Friedman often said he was most proud of how he celebrated his 80th birthday in 2000-at Second Harvest Food Warehouse. Enough was collected to provide 14,500 meals.
Dr. Friedman was very active with Missouri Western State University, where he received the Honorary Doctorate Degree of Humane Letters in 2013. He established two scholarships, and often performed fundraising concerts. An alumni lounge is named in honor of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Friedman and Joseph J. Droher, Dr. Joe’s cousin who had been orphaned at age 11 and came to live with the Friedman family.
A book about Dr. Joe Friedman’s life has been published and is becoming a “best seller.”
Friedman was preceded in death by his wife; Gladys (Levine) Friedman; parents, David and Esther (Feldman) Friedman; brother, Jack Friedman; sisters, Bess Beck, Lillie Rich and Elaine Fieman; son, Jay Weinstein; and niece, Barbara Friedman Barr.
Joe is survived by daughter-in-law, Janet Weinstein; and grandson, Dr. Zachary Weinstein, both of Forest Hills, NY; and nine nieces and nephews and their spouses: Diane Lee and Bob, Jeff Rich and Nancy, Sheldon Friedman and Ellen, Sherry Tenenbaum and Allen, Karen Levine, Evan Fieman and Peggy, Myles Beck and Iris, and Michael Fieman and family.
Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Shaare Sholem Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to Gladys and Joseph Friedman Music Scholarship. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Connie Frances Brooks
1949-2015

Connie Frances Brooks, 66, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Saturday, February 13, 2016 at her home.
She was born June 8, 1949 in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Connie was preceded in death by her parents; and four siblings. Survivors include sister, Patricia Weeks; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Goldie Belle Rowlett
1919-2016

Goldie Belle Rowlett, age 96, passed away, February 11, 2016 at a local hospital.
She was born near Fortescue, Missouri November 1, 1919.
She married Orville E. Rowlett in 1939.
She was a member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She attended the St. Joseph Restoration Branch.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and husband, Orville Edward Rowlett.
Survivors include son, Phillip Rowlett; daughter, Roxanna Fannon; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and best friend, Christina Holloway.
Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Monday, Pettijohn & Crawford Family Funeral Service. Interment Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 12:30 P.M. to 1:00 P.M. Monday, Pettijohn & Crawford Family Funeral Service. Online guest book and obituary at www.pettijohncrawford.com.

John Thomas Nurski
John Thomas Nurski 89, of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away February 14, 2016; arrangements are pending at the Rupp Funeral Home.

Linda “Sue” Mancino
1947-2016

Linda “Sue” Mancino, 68, Wathena, Kansas formerly of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Monday, February 8, 2016 at her home.
She was born May 5, 1947 in Batesville, Arkansas.
Sue married Michael Mancino on January 18, 1992.
She was a member of Tri-Cities Church of Christ in Elwood, Kansas.
Sue was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon and G. Earline (Foster) Freeman; daughters, Caren Bullard and Susan Kline; brother, Larry Freeman; and sister, Sandra Freeman.
Survivors include husband, Michael, Wathena, Kansas; daughter, Cathy Norman (Lindell), St. Joseph, Missouri; son-in-law, Bill Kline; grandchildren, Alex, Josh, Karen, William, Joseph, Natasha, Timmy, Dylan, Andrew, Ashli, Hannah, Shelli, Maci and Isaiah; great-grandchildren, Christopher, Dakota and Cora; brother, Scott Freeman (Debbie); foster sons, Mark (Susan) and C.J. Thomas (Debbie); niece, Erin; and friends Eddie and Donna Mead.
Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with 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 the American Cancer Society. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Shannon (McCray) Morgan
(June 4, 1969 – February 10, 2016)

Shannon M. (McCray) Morgan, 46, Atchison, Kansas, died unexpectedly after a brief illness Wednesday, February 10, 2016 at her home.

Funeral services will Monday, February 15, 2016 at 1:00 P.M. in the chapel of the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with Pastor Joseph Hansen officiating. Interment will follow in the Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Monday, from noon until 1:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Carol Baptist Church in Atchison and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Shannon was born on June 4, 1969, in Ft. Carson, Colorado, the daughter of Charles E. and Mary Jo Ann (Griffith) McCray. She graduated from the Lansing High School.

She formerly lived and worked in Paola, Kansas, before moving to Atchison to care for her father. She also worked in Atchison, in the cafeteria of the Benedictine College.

Shannon is survived by her father, Charles E. McCray, Atchison, KS.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Jo Ann McCray.

 

Carrie Margaret “Margie” Martin Lyle
1946-2016

Carrie Margaret “Margie” Martin Lyle, 90, of Ravenwood, MO, passed from this life on February 11, 2016, at her home.

Margie was born in Maryville, MO.  Her parents were Albert Russell Martin and Ida Elizabeth Miller.  She married Earl James Lyle, August 4, 1946, at her parent’s home.

She graduated from Northwest Missouri State Teacher College with a BS degree in Fine Arts and minors in Agriculture and Industrial Arts.  She taught in Columbia, MO, and Northeast Nodaway School until retiring on July 1, 1990.  She loved painting, crafts, travel, horseback riding, and entertaining.  She was a member of the Maryville Brush and Palette Club, Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority and the Harmony Ridge Community Club.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Earl on July 28, 2011; son, Bruce James Lyle, May 1964; grandson, Brian Randall Lyle, November 1994; sisters, Mariam DiMarco, Stella Martin; brothers, Harold Martin and Bill Martin.

She is survived by her children, Rebecca (Ronald) Fischer, Crofton, MD, Randall (Linda) Lyle, Holt, MO, Marianne (Russell) Adkins, Elmo, MO, Harold (Lisa) Lyle, Ravenwood, MO; 10 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild.

Services for Mrs. Lyle will be held at the Bram-Danfelt Funeral Home, Maryville, MO, on Tuesday, February 16, 2016, at 10:30 AM.  Burial will follow in the Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville.

The family will meet with friends and family on Monday evening, February 15, 2016, from 6-8:00 PM.

Memorials can be directed to the Ravenwood United Methodist Church, Ravenwood, MO.

For online condolences and guest book, visit www.bramfuneralhome.com

Marcia Ann (Burnstein) Powell
1949-2016

Marcia Ann (Burnstein) Powell, 66, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Friday, February 12, 2016 at her home.
Marcia was born June 29, 1949 in Kansas City, Missouri to Leo and Nell (Staples) Burnstein who preceded her in death.
She graduated from Central High School, MWSU, and later earned a Master’s Degree in Education. She was a member of Temple B’Nai Sholem.
Marcia retired after 17 years of teaching 5th grade at John Glenn School.
Survivors include her devoted husband of 31 years, Stephen R. Powell; two children, Ryan and Stephanie Powell; four sisters, Phyllis Sullivan (Doug), Sherrie Ott (Bob), Julie Miller (Tim), Ronna McCormick (Keith); one brother, David Burnstein, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
There will be a private graveside service for family. Marcia lived her life by the Golden rule. God has chosen the most tender hearted, kindest, most giving, loving and devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend and teacher to be among his angels and now, forever, an angel on our shoulders. Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory…Dr. Seuss.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Noyes Home for Children, 801 N. Noyes Blvd., St. Joseph, Missouri 64506.
Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Mark Anthony Lee
1971-2016

Mark Anthony Lee, 44, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Sunday, February 7, 2016 at a local healthcare facility.
He was born September 2, 1971 in Hillsboro, Oregon.
Mark was an inspiration and never once complained when he was diagnosed with MS.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Imogene (Tull) Lee; brother, Leslie; and sister, Julia (Lee) Ballew.
Survivors include father, Les Lee; sisters, Teresa Clark, Brenda Clark and Ellie Walker; brother, James Lee; and numerous extended family.
Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Memorial Services will be held at a later date. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Cheryl Taylor
1943-2016

Cheryl Taylor, 72, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Saturday, February 6, 2016 at a local healthcare facility.
She was born April 10, 1943 in Iowa City, Iowa.
Cheryl enjoyed spending time with her friends and playing bingo.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Connie.
Survivors include three children, Ron Taylor (Angie), Chrissy Hodgson (Robert) and Allan Taylor (Ruth); five grandchildren, Travis, Joseph, MaLeia, Patricia, and R.J.; three great-grandchildren; brothers, “CH” and “CJ”; and sister, Carolyn.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Care provided by Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Julia B. Proffitt
1924-2016

Julia B. Proffitt 91, of Saint Joseph, Missouri passed away Monday February 8, 2016 at a Saint Joseph health care center. She was born February 10, 1924 in St. Joseph, Missouri. She graduated from Rushville High School and attended the St. Joseph Junior College. She loved her friends at Wellington Point and to playing bingo. She was a member of the Catholic Faith. Julia was preceded in death by her father, John Higgins, mother, Rosetta Barnett 3-brothers, 3-sisters, and a great grandson, She is survived by two daughter, Nancy Anderson, and Jerry Ann (John) Hildebrand of Saint Joseph, MO, 4-grandchildren, 5- great grandsons, 1-great grand daughter, and a brother, Donald Higgins of Omaha, NE. She has been cremated under the direction of the Rupp Funeral Home. There are no scheduled visitation or memorial services at this time. Online condolence and obituary at www.ruppfuneral.com

Leta Margaret Trail
1919-2016

Leta Margaret Trail 96, of Saint Joseph, Missouri, passed away Monday, February 8, 2016 at a St. Joseph health care center. She was born March 23, 1919 in Crawford Township, near Weston, MO, daughter of Mattie and Henry Fortune. Leta married Russell Trail on September 27, 1937, he preceded her in death March 23, 2003. She worked at Nomi Lites, Katz and Osco drug stores, and retired from Quaker Oats, she took pleasure in her many employments. Leta was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and aunt who enjoyed spending time with her family, and was a member of the Wallace Christian Church. She is also preceded in death by her parents, a son, Tom Trail, 10 – brothers; Estel, Milliard, Thomas, John, and Dudley Jolly, Gilbert, Henry, James, Crawford, and Frank Fortune, 4 sisters, Mayme Willoughby, Pearl Trail, Eunice Sorrell, and Emily Lee Jones, son-in-law, Everett Purvis, daughter-in-law, Deborah Trail, one grandchild, one great great grandchild. Survivors include, two sons, Melvin Trail and Randall Trail both of Saint Joseph, MO, daughter, Patty Sue Purvis of Kansas City, MO, 10-grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, and daughter-in-law, Martha Trail of Gower, MO.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:00 am, on Saturday, February 13, 2016 at Rupp Funeral Home, with Rev. George Watts officiating, The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday at the Rupp Funeral Home. The Interment will be at the Pleasant Ridge Cemetery Weston. Memorials are requested to the Mosaic Hospice. Online condolence and obituary at www.ruppfuneral.com.

Renee Verssue Boothby
1965-2016

Renee Verssue Boothby, 50, Sterling, Colorado passed away Wednesday, February 3, 2016.
Renee was born April 2, 1965 in St. Joseph, Missouri to Bernard and Jeanne (Slocum) Verssue.
She graduated from St. Joseph Cathedral School, Bishop LeBlond High School and Drake University, where she received her B.A. in Communications.
Renee married Timothy Boothby in 1997.
She pursued a career in graphics design and was a creative painter, loving wife and mother.
She is survived by her husband, Timothy; daughters, Zelie and Sophia Boothby; parents, Bernard and Jeanne Verssue of St. Joseph; and brothers, Matthew (Mary) Verssue of Kansas City and John Verssue of McPherson, Kansas.
Memorial Mass 10:30 A.M. Friday, St. Joseph Cathedral Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Joseph Cathedral Catholic Church, K.C. Hope Lodge or a charity of your choice. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

John W. Ingram
1941-2016

John W. Ingram, 74, Mound City, passed away February 6, 2016 at his home surrounded by his family.
He worked most of his life in the fertilizer business, retiring as President of Northwest Fertilizer, a business he and his family started 25 years ago.
John enjoyed the Canada fishing trips with his friends for 30 years and he enjoyed hunting with his kids and family. He took pride in all three of his children saying they were his biggest and best accomplishments, however the sparkle in Poppy’s eyes were from his four grandchildren who he adored. The last four years he had been through so much with his illness, but he never lost his since of humor. John was a member of River of Hope Fellowship.
Preceded in death by son, Cory Ray; parents, Elbert Ingram and Abby Ingram Heine.
He is survived by his wife, Karen; son, Jeff; daughter, Tiffany (Brandon) Roup; grandchildren, Tanner and Tori Ingam, Aviree and Creyton Roup, all of Mound City; sisters, Gloria Roderick, Branson, MO, Linda Owens, St Joseph MO, Beverly Diggs, Mound City and Debbie Simmonds, Mound City; and a brother, Greg, “Butch” Strahl, Paola, KS.
Farewell Services 10:00 A.M. Thursday, River of Hope Fellowship. Interment Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, River of Hope Fellowship. The family suggests donations to River of Hope Fellowship or Hope Lodge, 1120 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64105. Online guest book and obituary at www.pettijohncrawford.com.

Debra Jean Grand Pré
(July 23, 1953 – February 4, 2016)

Debra J. Grand Pré, 62, Atchison, Kansas died unexpectedly Thursday, February 4, 2016 at her home.

Mass of Christian burial will be Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at 10:00 A.M. at Sacred Heart Church with Abbot Barnabas Senecal, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A parish rosary will be recited on Monday, February 8, 2016 at 6:00 P.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home with visitation to follow until 7:30 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Benedict Parish and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Debra was born July 23, 1953 in Atchison, Kansas the daughter of Harland and Edna Grieveldinger Grand Pré. She attended Sacred Heart Catholic Elementary School, graduating from Mount St. Scholastica Academy. She attended and graduated from Northeast Kansas Vocational Technical School as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Following her education she became employed as an LPN with the Atchison Hospital for many years.

She was a member of St. Benedict Parish. In her spare time she enjoyed reading, crocheting and fishing.

Survivors include a brother, Arland (Sandra) Grand Pré, Cummings, KS, two sisters, Jane (Marvin) Seager, Atchison, KS, Marilyn Grand Pré, Atchison, KS, numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a nephew, Marty Seager.

Norma Jeannine (Poe) Meade
1935-2016

ST. JOSEPH, MO Norma Jeannine (Poe) Meade, 80, St. Joseph, Missouri went to be with her Lord, Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at her home.
Norma was born December 24, 1935, in Saint Joseph, Mo., to Loyde and Mildred Poe. She attended Lafayette High School in St. Joseph.
She married Stanley Meade, a Baptist minister. They were married 63 years. Together, they ministered to several churches. She was never ordained as an associate pastor, but she should have been, because she served in every area of church life. Besides serving on many boards, she taught every age-group in the church. Very often she was called on to fill in on various ministries with no prior notice, but always managed to carry it off. Many people sought her out for counseling. She served as church secretary in several churches, and was a good organizer of many church programs, such as Bible school, ecumenical programs, etc. Music was a big part of her ministry. She had the ability to keep the melody while her husband sometimes played jazz background music for her. She taught in a pre-school for several years. She had a great green thumb which was obvious because of the many flowers she raised and nourished. She enjoyed serving her Lord, and family gatherings on holidays. During Norma’s battle with cancer, many friends and relatives came to see her. When visitors were leaving, there was one adjective that was usually heard: “sweet.” So, sweet Norma has gone to be with sweet Jesus.
Norma was preceded in death by: her parents; two sisters, Ladonna Poe and Carol Leisey; and one, great-grandson.
Survivors include her husband, of the home; two sons. Michael Meade, Laughton, OK., and Jerry (Laurie) Meade, Bullhead City, AZ.; daughter, Linda (Ivan) Foley, Wathena, KS.; six grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces.
Farewell Services 3:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 1:30 P.M. to 2:30 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where friends may call after 11:00 A.M. Monday. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to Wyatt Park Baptist Church or Mosaic Life Care Hospice. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Ricky Joe Roach
1954-2016

Ricky Joe Roach, 61, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Wednesday, February 3, 2016 at his home.
He was born September 13, 1954 in Smithville, Missouri. Ricky served in the United States Army and was a Mail Carrier with the United States Postal Service for 27 years until he retired in 2009.
He married Brenda Phillips on September 22, 1979 and they had two daughters.
He was a generous and outgoing person who was family oriented and loved his kids dearly. Ricky was a sports fan and loved watching the Chiefs, Royals, and Winston Redbirds. He loved playing any kind of ball in school and later played softball with the Elks.
Ricky was preceded in death by his mother, Jo Ann (Anderson) Roach; and three nephews.
Survivors include daughters, Stephanie Blizzard (Stephen) and Jordan Roach; five grandchildren, Naudia, Brayden, Stephen Jr., Haylee and Emilee; father, James Roach; sisters, Cheri Kelley (Kevin) and Lee Ann Calhoon (Ray); brothers, Larry Roach and Tommy Roach (Gloria); and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Graveside Farewell Services & Inurnment 10:00 A.M. Monday, Cameron Memory Gardens, Cameron, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to be made to Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Celane Cheryl Anderson
Born: June 03, 1974
Died: February 05, 2016

Celane Cheryl Anderson, 41, of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Friday, February 5, 2016 at her home. She was born June 3, 1974 in Victorville, California. She was a Homemaker, who enjoyed knitting and watching crime shows. Celane was preceded in death by her parents, Howel Hughes and Meredith A Govreau, and a sister, Melissa Spears. Survivors include, husband, Tony Anderson of the home, son, Aaron Joseph Anderson, step daughter, Christina Lynn Anderson, step son, Matthew J. Anderson, two brothers, Pat and Joshua Hughes. The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Tuesday at the Rupp Funeral Home to celebrate Celane’s life. She has been cremated under the direction of the Rupp Funeral Home.

Wilma Grace Morey
1939-2016

Wilma Grace Morey, 76, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Tuesday February 2, 2016 at Mosaic Life Care.
She was born July 15, 1939 in Bethany, Missouri.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Lena (Rucker) McCoy; two sisters; and one niece and one nephew.
Survivors include her husband, Gordon Morey; two daughters, Vickie Barber (Jerry), St. Joseph, and Theresa Anderson, Kansas City, Missouri; seven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; seven siblings, George, Rose, Rex, Ruth, Roger, Betty and Virginia; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

 

Gregory Lynn Jurgensmeier
Born: August 03, 1957
Died: February 07, 2016

Gregory Lynn Jurgensmeier, 58, of Fairview, KS, died Saturday, February 6, 2016, at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka, after a battle with COPD.

Greg was born August 3, 1957, at Sabetha, KS, one of seven children born to Raymond and Norma (Gilbert) Jurgensmeier, and was a lifelong Fairview resident. He attended Fairview grade school and graduated from Hiawatha High School with the class of 1975.

He was employed as a foreman at Reese Construction of Scandia, KS, for over 31 years.

Greg was an avid sports fan, following the KU Jayhawks, KC Royals & KC Chiefs. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends; and was a longtime member of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Fidelity, KS.

Survivors include three sisters: Pamela Koch of Sabetha, Patty Middendorf (Zon) of Hiawatha, Diane Low (J.R.) of Nortonville; three brothers: Bernard (Mary) of Marion, Illinois, Kevin of Sabetha, Randy of Fairview; 10 nieces & nephews; 10 great-nieces & nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Sabetha, at 10 a.m. Thursday, February 11. Father Barry Clayton will be the celebrant. Interment will follow at the St. Augustine Cemetery, Fidelity.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha after 9 a.m. Wednesday. The rosary will be recited at 6 p.m., followed by the family visiting with friends until 7:30.

Gary M. Lawrence
1959-2016

Gary M. Lawrence, 56, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Thursday, January 28, 2016 at his residence.
He was born May 9, 1959 in St. Joseph, Missouri.
He graduated from Benton High School, class of 1977 and was a licensed practical nurse at Oakridge in Plattsburg, Missouri,
He was an incredible father and husband. His other passion in life was music. He always had his headphones on listening to his favorite songs.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Concepcion Manuela Bravo; and aunt, Anita Bravo.
Survivors include wife, Kim; children, Jamie Lawrence, Brendon Lawrence, Ryan Lawrence, Ashley Lawrence, Mark Lawrence and Angel Reynolds; brothers, Christopher Lawrence (Tania) and Mark Lawrence; father, Gerald “Jerry” Lawrence; sister-in-law, Lisa Gabriel (Ronald Sr.); lifelong friend, Teresa Wilson; and numerous extended family.
Natural Farewell Services under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. A register book is available to sign at the funeral home. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Donna Belle King Rickman Westfall
1927-2016

Donna Belle King Rickman Westfall, 88, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Friday, January 29, 2016 at a healthcare facility in Savannah, Missouri.
She was born December 18, 1927 in Maryville, Missouri.
Donna married Dean Rickman in 1945. He preceded her in death in 1972. She then married Roy Westfall in 1975 and he also preceded her in death in 2005.
She was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother and was also an avid golfer. Donna was a member of the Chillicothe Country Club and First Baptist Church of Chillicothe, Missouri.
She was also preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Bessie (Eshelman) King, whom were born in Hopkins, Missouri.
Survivors include daughters, Rebecca Deann (Rickman) Landreth (Michael C), Buena Vista, Colorado and Robin Denise (Rickman) Bodenhausen (Galen), Cosby, Missouri; grandchildren, Talon Dean Landreth (Lisa), Trenton Charles Landreth (Amy), Erich Dean Bodenhausen (Andrea), Ashley MiKelle Nichols (Dustin), Chase Andrew Bodenhausen (Holly), Justin Ray Bodenhausen (Abby) and Bethany Anne Frisbie (Jason); great-grandchildren, Jarrett, Micah, Connor, Addison, Hampton, Haley, Hazel, Noah, Truman, Eli, Sailor, Jake, Lucy, Easton and Ellie; and several nieces and nephews.
Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Thursday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Savannah Cemetery, Savannah, Missouri. The family will gather with friends 11:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. Thursday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a local hospice organization of the donor’s choice. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Catherine F. “Katie” Davidson
1925-2016

Catherine F. “Katie” Davidson, 90 of Saint Joseph, Missouri died Saturday, January 30, 2016 at Abbey Woods facility.
She was born September 7, 1925 to Philip Muse Cole and Alice May (Scurbeck) Cole.
Catherine married Oran Ray Davidson on March 3, 1947 in Kansas City, Kansas.
Catherine is a member of AREME Chapter #461 OES and a member of the Daughters of the Nile EL MAAT # 120 and attended Huffman United Methodist Church.
She was known as Katie when she began her working career as Rosie the Riveter. She worked at the bomber plant during World War II; because of her size they put her riveting the wing. She then spent 5 years working on the crystal line for Midland International for a big salary of $3.00 an hour. She took a job with the Sunshine Biscuit Company on a cookie line for $4.80. When she had enough seniority to bid on jobs she bid for a fork lift job loading and unloading product from the warehouse to the trucks. The supervisors said she was too small to do the job. However Katie showed them that little can be mighty. Katie retired from Sunshine Biscuit with 30 years of service with 20 of those years proving that this little lady “CAN” do a man’s job at $18.00 an hour. After retirement she cared for her husband for four years until his death November 10, 1992. She then returned to work for 7-11 in the deli department for seven years. In 2000 Katie moved to Saint Joseph permanently with her daughter Gina Fox. Katie then wasn’t tired enough so she worked in the financial department of Diamond Health Care for six years, then she decided it was time to try retirement once again.
Katie was a very kind and generous person and never met a stranger. Katie was passionate about everything she did and never shirked her responsibility.
Surviving: Children: Linda (David) Smith of Paola, Ks, Gina Fox of Saint Joseph, Mo, Diane (Art) Hinson, of Roeland Park, Ks., and Nancee (Jeff) Jefferson of Las Vegas, Nv.; 11 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren; and seven great-great grandchildren; sister, Helen Lindsey and a very dear friend, Roger Limle; and one, puppy “Della”.
The family will gather with friends 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. Thursday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory.
Farewell Services 2:00 P.M. Friday, Chapel Hill-Butler Funeral Home, Kansas City, Kansas. Interment Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Kansas City, Kansas. Memorials can be made to the American Lung Association. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Dr. Frederick J. “Jim” Marston
1931-2016

Dr. Frederick James Marston Jr. (Jim), 84, died Sunday January, 24, 2016 in the comfort of his home with his family after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
He was born January 29, 1931, in Boonville, Missouri, son of Frederick and Alva Lee Marston. He is a graduate of Kemper Military School, University of Missouri and their two year medical school, and finished his education at the University of Louisville medical school.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Patricia Anne Carr of Mexico Mo. Three Children, Rick Marston (his wife Valissa) of Kansas City, Dr. Sarah Marston, PhD of Bethesda, Maryland, and Michael Marston (his wife Sylvia) of Littleton, Colorado and five Grandchildren – Claire, Emma, Lily, Nate and Micki.
After graduating Medical School, he joined the US Army and was stationed at Brooke Army Medical Center, where he interned and completed a residency in OB/GYN. After serving 3 years in Heidelberg and Landstuhl Germany, he retired from the military and joined the Thompson, Brumm, Knepper Clinic in St. Joseph. In 1987, he co-founded St Joseph Women’s Health, a private practice in OB/GYN.
He was president of the Kansas City OB/Gyn Society, the American College of OB/GYN, was a life member of the Medical Society of Vienna, Austria, the AMA Buchannan County Medical Society, the Missouri State Medical Society and a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. Jim supported scouting and was a member of Mic-O-Say the honor camping society of Camp Geiger.
He was a member of the First Presbyterian church, and volunteered as a physician at the Social Welfare Board after his retirement.
Jim loved Golf, Mizzou Sports and supporting the St. Joseph Medical Community. Jim was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Saturday, First Presbyterian Church. The family will gather with friends following the service at the church. The family requests that donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church of St. Joseph. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Sandy “Moo Moo” Dykes
1942-2016

Sandy “Moo Moo” Dykes, 74, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Sunday, January 24, 2016 at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born January 14, 1942 in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Sandy graduated from Benton High School Class of 60’ and Missouri Western State College Class of 73’. Throughout her life she worked at many places including the St. Joseph State Hospital, UCP, St. Joe Sheltered Workshop, Progressive Community Service and lastly CRR.
She loved to play Keno at the Casino and her online games, enjoyed fishing and adored her grandkids.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Kathryn (Caton) Cook; and sister, Donna Peacock.
Survivors include her life partner, Martha C. Goodding; children, Susan Gaudreau (Stephen) and Scott Dykes; grandchildren, Melissa Hawley (Tony Dominguez), Alexandra Collins (Brandon) and Tabatha Auxier; great-grandchildren, Dominic, Jordan, Sammi, Myley, Dallas, Hunter and Cory; brother, Jerry Cook; Greg Organ (Regina), whom she thought of as a son; and extended CRR family.
Farewell Services 3:00 P.M. Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Inurnment Whispering Pines Cremation Garden at St. Joseph Memorial Park. The family will gather with 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 CRR. The family asks that if you plan to attend the service that you bring a Mylar balloon to take part in the balloon release. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

James O. “Jim” Key
1943-2016

James O. “Jim” Key, 72, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Monday, January 25, 2016 at his home.
He was born April 30, 1943 in Memphis, Tennessee.
Jim married Charlaine Farrow on October 24, 1964.
He proudly served in the United States Navy and enjoyed playing cards.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Otis Key and Mabel (Rogers) Melancon; sisters, Ann Melancon and Geraldine Giovengo; and brothers, Russell and Joe Key.
Survivors include wife, Charlaine; daughter, Amy Wilson (Brady); grandchild, Charlie Wilson; sister, Charlotte Gilliland (Ben); brother, Terry Melancon (Barbara); step-father, Aubrey Melancon; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Graveside Farewell Services & Inurnment 10:00 A.M. Saturday, Memorial Park Cemetery. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to KU Cancer Society. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Harold R. Johnson
1933-2016

Harold R. Johnson, 82, Clarksdale, Missouri passed away Sunday, January 24, 2016 at Mosaic Life Care.
He was born June 2, 1933 in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Harold married Esther Romberger June 4, 1955. She preceded him in death on January 5, 2011.
He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.
Harold was a member of Clarksdale Christian Church and was an avid gardener, carpenter, electrician, plumber, mechanic and cook. He always looked for ways to help his neighbors.
He was also preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Norma (Lent) Johnson; two brothers, Charles and Ronnie Johnson; and son-in-law, Robert Albers.
Survivors include children, Tom Johnson (Suzy), Panama City Beach, Florida, Betty Albers, Stewartsville, Missouri and Norman Johnson (Dee), St. Joseph, Missouri; grandchildren, Lauren, Caleb, Thomas, Nathan, Keara and David; six great-grandchildren; brother, Leland Johnson (Gail); numerous nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Venita Johnson.
Farewell Services 10:00 A.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where friends may call after 3:00 P.M. Thursday. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Karan Sue Miller
1944-2016

Karan Sue Miller, 71, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Monday, January 25, 2016 at a local healthcare facility.
She was born August 9, 1944 in St. Joseph, Missouri.
She was a school bus driver for Davis Bus Company and had also been a beautician.
Karan was a member of Patee Park Baptist Church and attended Green Valley Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Godfrey and Albertina (Davis) Miller; and brothers, Jerry and Warner Miller.
Farewell Services 3:00 P.M. Thursday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call after 9:00 A.M. Thursday. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to InterServ or Hospice Advantage. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Jaron F. Montemayor
1977-2016

Jaron F. Montemayor, 38, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away unexpectedly Saturday, January 23, 2016 at his home.
He was born April 10, 1977 in St. Joseph.
Mr. Montemayor graduated from Central High School, class of 1995. He attended New Mexico State University where he earned a degree in Philosophy and later attended Missouri Western State University where he earned a degree in English Technical Writing.
He worked at Ventura Foods and was also a freelance web designer. Jaron loved reading and writing, playing the piano, music and drawing. He was very passionate about political activism and human rights.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Albert and Wilma Townsend Montemayor; maternal grandfather, Richard L. Marlowe, Jr.; father, Keith A. Montemayor; and aunt, Diana K. Marlowe.
Survivors include his sons, Cameron and Jackson Montemayor; mother, Linda Marlowe-Reiley; sister, Brean Reiley; maternal grandmother, Mary Lou Marlowe; and numerous cousins and extended family.
Farewell Services at a later date. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to the funeral home to defray funeral expenses. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Wendell Cole
1934-2016

Wendell Cole, 81, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Saturday, January 23, 2016.
He was born August 24, 1934 in Turon, Kansas.
Wendell graduated from Pretty Prairie high School, class of 1952, and attended Kansas State where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering.
He served in the Army Medical Corps.
Wendell started as a bridge designer in Iowa and later became involved with structural engineering in projects all over the world, including Thailand, Saudi Arabia, and Mexico as well as every state except Hawaii.
He was very active in his church. He attended Central Christian and Bible Studies at Three Angels Seventh Day Adventist. Mr. Cole also served with the American Red Cross and The Crossing Ministries.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Burley and Gertrude (Kelman) Cole; sisters, Lenora Haney and Cleora Zink; and brother, John Cole.
Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Mary Lou (Murry) Cole; children, Ronda Otway, Michael Cole, Jonna Horn (Rick), and Debra “Debbie” Cole-Gerber (Jim); grandchildren, Lisa Otway (John Stine), Megan Otway, Ricky Horn, Angela Horn, Ryan Horn, Amanda Gerber, Alyssa Gerber, and Alexa Gerber; Great grandchildren, Medow, Nick, Alex, and Hunter Stine; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Farewell Services 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, Central Christian Church. Interment 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, Lerado Cemetery, Reno County, Kansas. The family will gather with 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 Central Christian Church, Three Angels Seventh Day Adventist Church or The Crossing Ministries. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Shirleen K. Rath
1948-2016

Shirleen K. Rath, 67, Savannah, Missouri passed away Thursday, January 21, 2016 at Mosaic Life Care.
She was born November 6, 1948 in Abilene, Kansas and graduated from Harvard High School in Harvard, Nebraska.
Shirleen married Bernard L. Rath on November 24, 1967.
She was a member of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary.
Mrs. Rath was preceded in death by her parents, William and Betty Jo (Wilson) Colwell; and step-mother, Darline Colwell.
Survivors include husband; sons, Daniel L. Rath and Randy A. Rath, St. Joseph, Missouri; stepbrothers. Kenneth Colwell (Sherry), Columbia, Missouri, Keith Colwell (Sally), Bismarck, Missouri and Larry Colwell, Harvard, Nebraska; stepsister, Barbara McNerney (Bill), Grant, Nebraska; and an aunt and numerous other relatives and friends.
Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Harvard Cemetery, Harvard, Nebraska. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

William J. “Bill” Coker
1929-2016

William J. “Bill” Coker, 86, St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Wednesday, January 20, 2016.
He was born March 4, 1929 in Dearborn, Missouri.
Bill married Marilyn Woodruff on October 30, 1948. She preceded him in death on September 13, 2012.
He was a graduate of Agency High School.
He was also preceded in death by his parents, Alan and Lela (Finney) Coker; daughter, Vickie Coker; two brothers, Harold and Diz Coker; and three sisters, Lou Ellis, Maxine Stanton and Dorothy Coker.
Survivors include daughter, Linda Pendleton (Dennis), Union Star, Missouri; grandchildren, William Pike and D.J. and Jeff Pendleton; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Frances Prescher, Ann Curran and Marge Mullens; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Farewell Services 10:00 A.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service, where friends may call after 3:00 P.M. Sunday. Flowers are appreciated and for those wishing to make a contribution, the family requests they be made to Mosaic Life Care Hospice. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

James (Jim) Jarrett, Sr.
August 26, 1930 – January 20, 2016

In the years just prior to dementia stealing Jim’s memories he wrote an extensive family history and autobiography that will always be treasured by his family. His book “Just Ramblin’ Through A Family Odyssey and Autobiography” reminds all who knew him of just how interesting a life he led, how he always respected and cared for those who came from all walks of life and how much he cared for his family.
Jim, the son of the late Lester and Gladys (Slater) Jarrett, was born in Savannah, Missouri. His family soon moved to St. Joseph, Missouri where they lived in the Ayrlawn Addition. While in St. Joseph, Jim attended McKinley Grade School and Benton High School. Following his junior year in high school, his family moved to Clarksdale, Missouri. While there he joined the Clarksdale Methodist Church, graduated from Clarksdale High School in 1948 and attended St. Joseph Junior College. He also worked at several varied jobs before joining the Marine Corp to serve his country during the Korean War. He was a rifleman on the front lines with the 1st Marine Regiment. After several intense battles he was wounded in action above the 38th parallel and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal. Jim maintained a lifelong love for his country and greatly respected those who also sacrificed for their country. Although a brave and tough warrior he had a very tender heart. He even demonstrated compassion for those he had to fight against.
After his discharge from the Marine Corp, he married the love of his life Eva Maurine Heinz on April 6, 1952 at the Evangelical United Brethren Church (Zion United Methodist Church) of Cosby, Missouri. He declared this the “smartest move he ever made.” They were husband and wife for nearly 64 years until his death. After their marriage, they settled on a farm in rural Cosby, Missouri. Jim again delved into a variety of careers before deciding to attend Moller Barber College in Kansas City. After becoming a barber, he owned and operated the St. Francis Barber Shop and the Robidoux Hotel Barber Shop both in St. Joseph, Missouri during the 1960’s and 1970’s. For the remainder of his barber career he built and operated a rural barber shop next to his home in rural Cosby, Missouri. His barber career spanned over a period of 48 years. He had side careers that further enriched his life. He was an inspector for the Missouri State Board of Barber Examiners and was appointed by Governor Christopher Bond to serve as Secretary/Treasurer of the State Board of Barber Examiners. He also was elected to four terms as an Andrew County Judge/Commissioner and served on the Board of Directors of the Missouri Association of Counties. In all his many careers he strove to dutifully and honestly serve, just as he did in the Marine Corp, those who entrusted him with a job or elected him to a position.
He enjoyed promoting and serving his community and was a member and volunteer of many organizations. He was a life member and charter member of the Northwest Missouri Detachment of the Marine Corp League, a past commandant and member of the Military Order of Devil Dogs, past member of the Marine Corps League ceremonial firing squad, life member of The 1st Marine Division Association, member of the veterans of H Company 3rd Battalion 1st Marine Regiment, had life memberships in the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the American Legion Post 359, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1668 and the Disabled American Veterans. He was a member of the California Oregon Trails Association and former charter member and president of the Cosby Lions Club. He was a member of the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing of America, St. Joseph Chapter. He was a past president of the Bethel Cemetery Board. He was the founder and first president of the Cosby Lions Volunteer Fire Department and the first fire chief of the Fire Department.
Jim’s past experiences, strong interest in his country’s leadership and devotion to his country led him to actively participate in politics most of his life. He was a lifelong Republican and kept active in the Republican Party most of his life.
His recreation times were as varied as his careers. His many interests included singing, flying airplanes, reading, golf, camping with his family, sailing, travel, writing, and relaxing outdoors on his farm. His most enjoyable hobby toward the end of his life was riding a golf cart on his family’s farm with his family at his side.
Jim enjoyed rural life on his farm and helped his wife raise two sons, James (Suzan) Jarrett of Cosby, Missouri and Gary Jarrett of Kansas City, Missouri. Today along with his sons he is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Eva Maurine Jarrett. She did an amazing job caring for him as dementia slowly took his life. She was with him in his own home holding his hand when he took his last breath. Jim is also survived by three grandchildren, Nicholas (Lindsey) Jarrett, Cora (Edward) Leahy and Nathaniel (Alyssa) Jarrett; one step – grandchild, Camille Hendren; and three great – grandchildren, Troy, Eva and Dayton Jarrett. He is also survived by a brother, Jerry (Shirley) Jarrett; and sister, Susan (Jerry) Arnold; as well as numerous nephews and nieces. His brothers and sisters that preceded him in death were two half-sisters, Dorothy Valentine and Harriet Fellows; two brothers, Robert (Bob) and Donald (Bud) Jarrett; and a sister, Janie Daring. Jim loved all his immediate and extended family and cherished the times he could spend with them. His parents had instilled in their children a love for each other that has been passed down through several generations and persists today. He was an amazing Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa, Brother and Uncle and will be greatly missed by all his family.
The family has chosen not to have a memorial service or visitation, however; cards would be appreciated.
Among Jim’s memoirs, a slip of old note paper was found. On it read this verse he recited in church each Sunday as a young boy – “Many blessings on the day of your birth, may sunshine and blessings be given, and may the dear Lord prepare you on earth, for a beautiful birthday in Heaven.”
Care provided by Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book at www.meierhoffer.com.

Kim Tunks
1962-2016

Kim Tunks, 53, Maysville, Missouri passed away Sunday, January 17, 2016.
She was born December 24, 1962.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Judith Archer.
Survivors include father, Gary Tunks (Barb); sister, Cindy Killgore; brother, Michael Riebesell; several nieces and nephews; two dogs, George and Daisy.
Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Bettie Libel McGarry
1913-2016

Bettie Libel McGarry, 102, Atchison, Kansas formerly of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Thursday, January 21, 2016 at Dooley Center in Atchison, Kansas.
She was born August 23, 1913 in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Bettie worked at 1st National Bank for many years, retiring as an Assistant Vice President. She was a longtime member of St. Joseph Cathedral Catholic Church and volunteered at the hospital.
She was very bright, independent with a quick wit and a dry sense of humor. She could do most anything and was a wonderful seamstress, knitter, cook and baker.
Bettie attributed her long life and good health to having walked every day to work, rain, sleet, snow or shine and after retiring, walking her beloved dog, “Pepper” every day down Lovers Lane.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Effie (Smith) Libel; husband of 47 years, George; and daughter, Sr. Georgia McGarry, O.S.B.; grandson, Lonny Lisenbee; and sister, Bernice Gabriel.
Survivors include children, Mary McGarry and John McGarry (Connie); grandchildren, Tammy Santos and Richy Lisenbee; four great-grandchildren; and ten great-great-grandchildren.
Mass of Christian Burial 1:00 P.M. Monday, St. Joseph Cathedral Catholic Church. Interment Mount Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to Mount St. Scholastica. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Charles L. Burton
1947-2016

Charles L. Burton, 68, St. Joseph, Missouri changed his address to heaven on Wednesday, January 20, 2016.
He was born September 4, 1947 in St. Joseph, Missouri.
He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.
Charles married Jacquelyn Jo Battreall on July 9, 1977.
He was a machine operator for BHA and later at GE for 31 years until retiring in 2009.
Charles liked to fish and hunt.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilber and Mary (Butterfield) Burton; and an infant brother.
Survivors include wife; children, Leland Scott Burton, Kevin Michael Burton and Bobbie Jo Sissel (Mike); two grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Mari Beth Battreall and Nancy Battreall; and several nieces and nephews.
Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Robert J. Simpson
1934-2016

Robert J. Simpson, 81, Cameron, Missouri passed away Thursday, January 21, 2016 at Cameron Regional Medical Center.
He was born February 17, 1934 in Mt. Pleasant, Utah.
Jay married Kathleen Truscott on September 30, 1960.
He was a Battalion Chief with the Salt Lake City Fire Department and he proudly served in the United States Air Force.
Jay loved to travel and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
He was preceded in death by his son, Cory T. Simpson; and parents, Harry and Edith (Madson) Simpson.
Survivors include wife; sons, Ben Jay Simpson (Mindy), Kingston, Missouri and Bradley Steven Simpson, Cameron, Missouri; daughter-in-law, Kristine Simpson; grandchildren, Erin Galbraith (Caleb), Jamie Patterson (Dusty), Brent Simpson (Kristie), Scott Simpson (Justina), Heidi Cunningham (Chance), Sarai, Apoima, Craig (Whitney), Mailey, Colton, Liana and Hailey Simpson; seventeen great-grandchildren; brothers, Harry David and Peter M. Simpson; sister, Paula Louise Matthews (Dene); and numerous nieces and nephews.
Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family suggests memorial donations to Wounded Warriors Project. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.