Mary Kay Hill

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Mary Kathryn Hill, 88, formerly of Pittsburg, passed away at 4:22 a.m. Monday, April 24, 2017, in Overland Park, KS. She was born June 9, 1928, at Omaha, Nebraska to Harold Arthur and Julia Rubeti (Margrave) Kottmann. 

Mary Kay graduated from Southwest High School in Kansas City, Missouri. She then attended the University of Kansas and was a member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority. On September 30, 1949, she was united in marriage to Paul S. Hill at Bentonville, Arkansas. Mary Kay was a homemaker and enjoyed gardening and playing bridge. She also enjoyed quilting and sewing even up until her death. She and her husband loved to play golf and traveled around the United States, England, Scotland, and Ireland. In retirement, Mary Kay and Paul spent many winters at their condo in Florida on the golf course. Mrs. Hill also had a private pilot license and enjoyed flying. She was also an advocate for women’s voting rights. Membership was held in the First United Methodist Church of Pittsburg, Crestwood Country Club and P.E.O. Chapter CP. 

She is survived by a son, Stephen Hill and his wife, Jennifer Louise of Overland Park, KS; three daughters, Candyse Taylor and her husband, Montie of rural Parsons, KS, Judy Eicher and her husband, Bob of Cheyenne, WY, and Sherris Bellamy and her husband, David of Overland Park, KS; a brother Harold Kottmann of Centerville, OH; seven grandchildren, Michelle Eicher, Jennifer Hewett, Julie Taylor, Mary "Katie" Bellamy, Lucas Bellamy, Haley Hill, and Spencer Hill; and 4 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, and a brother Richard.

Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 28, 2017, at Brenner Mortuary with Rev. Mark Chambers officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Brenner Mortuary. The family suggests memorials be given to the American Heart Association, Elm Acres Youth & Family Service, and/or P.E.O Scholarship Fund. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Ed Bradney

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Edward Maxwell Bradney, 89 of Pittsburg, KS died at 2am, Tuesday April 18, 2017 at the Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg following a short illness.

He was born January 9, 1928 in Columbus, KS the son of Claude C. and Pauline D. (Scott) Bradney.

On October 15, 1949 he was united in marriage to Ruth J. Saporito at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Scammon, KS; she survives him of the home.

Ed was a veteran of WWII entering the U.S. Navy in 1945 and was discharged in 1946 as Seaman, he went on to join the U.S. Army in 1950 and was discharged in 1951 attaining the rank of Sgt. 1st Class.

He worked in the Insurance Industry for 30+ years. He was employed as an Agency Manager for MetLife for 20 years and in Research and Development for Farm Bureau for 10 years. During his retirement he also worked part-time for 13 years as a funeral assistant for Bath-Naylor & Friskel Funeral Homes and a driver for Pittsburg Ford.

He spent 31 years in Columbus, KS and also lived in Manhattan, KS, Council Bluffs, IA and Topeka a total of 34 years.

He was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Pittsburg and a 72 year member of the American Legion.

Additional survivors include a son Claude Edward (Jill) Bradney of Lawrence, KS, a sister Elizabeth Gleason of Columbus two grandchildren Joshua (Dawn) Bradney and Tyler (Lindsey) Bradney, two great grandchildren Carson Thomas Bradney and Lauren Bradney.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Jeanne Boulware.

Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday April, 21, 2017 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Pittsburg with Fr. Gabriel Greer as Celebrant. Inurnment was held Friday at the Park Cemetery in Columbus. Condolences may be left atwww.bathnaylor.com. Memorials may be made to the Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Fund and/or the American Legion Keith Reeves Post #3; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. 

Services and arrangements by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS.

Margaret Brohl

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Margaret J. Brohl 99, of Overland Park, KS formally of Weir, KS died 9:07am Tuesday April 18, 2017 at the Overland Park Place in Overland Park, KS following an illness. 

Margaret was born March 22, 1918 in Kansas City, MO the daughter of William and Beatrice Jenkins. 

In 1945 Margaret married William J. Brohl in Kansas City, MO; he preceded her in death in November of 1989. 

Margaret taught elementary school in Kansas City, MO for years and later taught courses at Pittsburg State University. She received a doctorate in early childhood development from Kansas University. Margaret later opened Small World Nursery in Pittsburg, KS for developmentally challenged children from 1981-1998. Margaret’s passion was helping children with special needs in the community.
Margaret resided in rural Weir, KS until 2013 in which time she moved to Overland Park, KS to a retirement facility to be near her daughter Barbara and other family members. 

Margaret was preceded in death by her daughter Barbara Thimmesch and husband. 

Survivors include son-in-law Carl Thimmesch; 2 grandchildren Steve and wife Amanda and Emily and husband Nicholas; great-grandchildren Madison, Abigail, Jillian and Landon Thimmesch and Tyler and Violet Davis. 

Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday April 22, 2017 at the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Fr. David Voss as celebrant. Burial followed at St. Anthony Cemetery in Weir, KS. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. E-mail condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.

Charles Terwilleger

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Charles Wilbur Terwilleger, 72 of McCune, KS died April 19, 2017 at his home.
He was born January 11, 1945 in Mound Valley, KS the son of Wilbur S. and Nellie M. (Olmsted) Terwilleger.

Charles worked for the Union Pacific Railroad in Signal Maintenance for 42 years.
He served his country in the United States Navy and also loved spending his free time outdoors, fishing and gardening. 

Charles is survived by his daughter; Wendy (Lee) Cherry, sister; Kathleen Terwilleger, Topeka, KS, grandchild; Phillip Cherry.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Wilbur and Nellie Terwilleger and his wife Shirley Bowdre.
Memorial services were held Monday April 24, 2017 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Weir, KS with Rev. James Sukraw officiating. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Memorials may be left to Via Christi Cancer Center; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. 

Services by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home, Weir, KS.

George Burns

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

George Burns 87, of Girard, KS formally of Arma, KS died 3:20am Saturday April 22, 2017 at the Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg, KS following an illness. 

George was born October 12, 1929 in 50 Camp, KS the son of George and Jennie (Rath) Burns. He was a graduate of Arma High School and later joined the United States Army serving his country for over 20 years. 

On March 11, 1954 George married Mina Luise Koenig in Karlsruhe, Germany; she preceded him in death on April 26, 1990. 

Following his military service George worked locally as a carpenter, later for Burns and Decuyper Lumber Yard and True Value in Pittsburg, KS. In George’s free time he enjoyed hunting, fishing, making sausage and salami and following his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Survivors include his children George M. Burns and wife Joeen of Girard, KS and Ron Burns of Arma, KS; grandchildren Adam Burns and Brandy of Eudora, KS, Heidi Burns of Girard, KS; honorary grandchildren Marie Wilson of San Diego, CA, Eric Wilson of Girard, KS and Seth Wilson of Girard, KS; and one great-granddaughter Ansley Burns. 

George was preceded in death by his parents, spouse, siblings Gertrude Vanbeceleare, Helen Burns, Hattie Burns, Edna Vanwinkle, Sister Mary Elizabeth Burns, Ann Eccli, Ruth Loiselle, Francis Prideaux, Dottie Theys, Bill Burns, Bob Burns, Joe Burns and James Burns. 

Graveside Services will be 11:00am Wednesday April 26, 2017 at the Ft. Scott National Cemetery in Ft. Scott, KS with Rev. Laurie Anderson officiating. Family will receive friends from 9-10:00am prior to the service at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg, KS. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the Kansas Honor Veteran’s Flight Project. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. E-mail condolences may be left atwww.bathnaylor.com. 

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.

Roy Fish

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Roy L. Fish, 68, of Pittsburg, passed away at 2:38 p.m., Sunday, April 23, 2017, at Medicalodge South of Pittsburg. 

He was born November 3, 1948, at Santa Monica, CA, the son of Robert "Bob" and Norene (French) Fish. Mr. Fish served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged. He worked in the oil fields, for Polytron in Pittsburg and at the Meadowbrook Mall in the Maintenance Department. 

Mr. Fish is survived by one aunt, Nelda Allen of Pittsburg, and many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service is set for 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 29, 2017, at the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, with Reverend Dan Moss conducting the service. Private burial of cremains will take place at a later date. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Kathryn Manitz

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Kathryn L. Manitz, 98, of Pittsburg, passed away at 6:50 p.m., Monday, April 17, 2017. 

She was born June 7, 1918, at Gross, KS, the daughter of Tony and Lydia (Wade) Fenoglio. 

She was united in marriage to Richard F. Manitz on April 22, 1938, at Lamar, MO. He preceded her in death on January 11, 1995. Mrs. Manitz was a homemaker. She is survived by two daughters, Pam Manitz of the home, and Connie Barca (Anthony) of Lake Worth, FL, and one grandson, Christopher Barca of Hawaii and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents, five brothers, Eugene Fenoglio, Tony Fenoglio, Richard Fenoglio, Robert Fenoglio and Billy Fenoglio, and three sisters, Margie Pichler, Patsy Stovall, and Gladys Cochran. 

A graveside service is set for 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 21, 2017, at the Garden of Memories Cemetery, Pittsburg, with Pastor Annie Ricker conducting the service. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery. Friends may call after 11:00 a.m., Thursday, at the Brenner Mortuary to sign the register book. The family suggests memorials to Meals on Wheels. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Carl Swartz

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Sgt. Carl H. Swartz, Sr. 82, of Gardner, KS, passed away at 7:30 a.m. Monday, April 17, 2017, at his home. He was born on July 8, 1934, to Charles and Nora Swartz. He attended Eugene Fields School and later moved to Cherokee, KS, where he graduated in 1952. He then joined the US Air Force where he was promoted to Staff Sgt. And was a Firearms Instructor, where he spent the next 7 years. He married Rubie Briggs in Oklahoma City, OK, in 1958. She preceded him in death on March 25, 2011.

After returning to the Pittsburg area, he owned and operated the Swartz Hamburger Heaven, and with his brothers and father, operated the Swartz County Ambulance, the Service Cab Company, and The Little Grill Café. He became involved with Babe Ruth Baseball and managed several teams in Pittsburg. After moving to Olathe, KS, in 1977, he was employed at the KUMC Police Department, where he maintained the position of Sgt. and Firearms Instructor, where he received a Meritorious Award for and Exceptional Act Unaware of Great Personal Danger in 1985, presented by the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police. At that time he stayed involved in Babe Ruth Youth Baseball. He spent a total of 35 years in the Babe Ruth Organization. He finished his career as the District Commissioner of the District #7. After retirement from KUMC in 1991, he joined the Volunteer Services at KUMC, and was awarded for 4,000 hours of Volunteer Services. He was a member of the A.F. and A.M. Masonic Lodge in Girard, KS, and served as the Master of the Lodge in 1976, and the Worthy Patron of Eastern Star, Electra Chapter of Girard, KS, in 1976 and also served as a Rainbow Dad. He was also a member of the Mirza Shrine.

He is survived by his children, Sherry Porter of Branson, MO, Curtis Swartz and his wife, Julie of Gardner, KS, Carla Swartz of Gardner, KS, Carolyn Mynatt and her husband, Ron of Joplin, MO, and Carl "Chip" Swartz, Jr. and his wife Kristin of Gardner, KS; 18 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Carl was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, and two brothers, Charles and Kenneth Swartz, and a daughter, Mary Kalsowski Swartz.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, April 21, at the Brenner Mortuary with Pastor Steve Dighton officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. prior to the start of the service on Friday and from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. after the service at the Masonic Temple 3105 N. Joplin, Pittsburg. The family suggests memorials be given to the Parkinson’s Center at the University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Blvd Kansas City, KS 66160 and/or Olathe Youth Baseball, 885 S. Parker, Olathe, KS 66061. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th Street, Pittsburg, KS 66762.

Robin Purdon

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Robin Lynn (Jackson) Purdon, 52, of Mulberry, died April 16, 2017 at Via Christi Village in Pittsburg, KS.

She was born February 26, 1965 in Pittsburg, KS the Daughter of Bruce Allan and Sharon Diane Elrod Jackson. She had been an area resident since the age of 19, moving from Chanute, KS. She graduated from Chanute High School in 1983 and from Pittsburg State University in 1987 with a BS Degree in Communications.

She married Jeffrey William Purdon on May 28, 1995 at Friends Home Lutheran Church in Savonburg, KS and he survives at the home in Mulberry, KS.

Robin had worked at National Pizza Company in Pittsburg for 26 years and was currently the Claims Manager. She had also worked at Barto’s Idle Hour in Frontenac and Jim’s Steak House in Pittsburg while she was at the university.

She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Pittsburg, was a dance mom at the YMCA Academy of Dance and a Cheer Mom at Frontenac High School.

Survivors include her husband Jeffrey of the home, two daughters Alaina Purdon who is a student at PSU and Jillian Purdon who is a student at Frontenac High School. Her parents Bruce and Sharon Jackson of Chanute, one sister Lori Wilson and her husband Dennis of Chanute, and one brother Mark Jackson and his wife Angie of Olathe, KS, several nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services will be 2 pm Friday April 21, 2017 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Pittsburg, with Tom Wehrman, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the Highland Park Cemetery in Pittsburg, KS. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8 pm Thursday at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home, 522 S. Broadway in Pittsburg, KS. A memorial has been established to the educational fund for her daughters Alaina and Jillian in care of the funeral home. Condolences for the family may be left at our web site www.bathnaylor.com.

Gary Ledford

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Gary Harvey Ledford, 86, of rural Cherokee, Kansas, passed away at 5:45 a.m. Monday, April 17, 2017 at his home.

He was born March 18, 1931 near West Mineral, Kansas, to Lauren and Gertrude (Lovell) Ledford. He attended local schools and graduated from West Mineral High School.

On October 8, 1950, he was united in marriage to Betty Ruth Morrow at Parsons, Kansas. She survives at the family home. Mr. Ledford was self-employed as a carpenter and contractor. Membership was held in the Osage Church of the Brethren near McCune, Kansas. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Steven Ledford and his wife, Jeanie of Belton, Missouri and Scott Ledford and his wife, Sonja of Columbus, Kansas; a daughter, Jan Rice and her husband, Craig of Fort Scott, Kansas; a brother, Martin Ledford and his wife, Betty of Cherokee, Kansas; two sisters, Mary Rose White of Nevada, Missouri and Kathleen Reynolds and her husband, Larry of Joplin, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Crystal Spratley, Lindsey Ledford, Matthew Ledford, Heather York, Brandon Ledford, Casey Holt and Kinley Rice; and three great-grandchildren, Michael Spratley, Knox Holt and Eastyn Holt. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday (April 19) at the Osage Church of the Brethren with Rev. Dustin Ledford officiating. Burial will follow the services in the Osage Brethren Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Brenner Mortuary, where friends may call after 2 p.m. The family suggests memorials to the Harry Hynes Hospice. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Online condolences may also be left at www.brennermortuary.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg.

Gabriel Wilderman

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Gabriel Wilderman, a treasured son of Jeffrey L. Wilderman and Amanda D. Owens was born April 10 2017 at 5:00 pm at Via Christi Hospital, died peacefully in the arms of his family after one beautiful and unforgettable hour. 

A perfect baby boy who touched so many lives in a such a brief time. We will always miss and love you. 

Gabriel is a beloved brother to two sisters, Kami Raelynne Wilderman and Kenzlee Louise Wilderman, and one brother Kohen Max Wilderman, paternal grandparents; Steve and Vicky Wilderman, maternal grandparents; Darrell and DeeNetta Owens, Steve and Angela Hitt. There are no services planned at this time. Online condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. 

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.

Peggy Benelli

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Peggy Ann Benelli, 76, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away at 10:08 p.m., Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at her residence. 

She was born November 20, 1940 at McCune, Kansas, the daughter of Forrest Lee and Burnice Irene (Allen) Groff. She attended school in McCune and graduated from Girard High School in 1958. 

On August 3, 1963, she was united in marriage to Martin “Buddy” Benelli, Jr at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. He survives at the family home. She went to work for First State Bank and H&R Block right of high school. She also did babysitting from 1963 until 1989. In 1990, she opened Step by Step Pre-School with Karen Dunn. They operated it touching many children’s lives until 2005. Peggy also worked at The Center from 1999 until 2016. Membership was held in Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. 

In addition to her husband, Buddy, she is survived by two sons, Curtis Benelli and his wife, Kara of Pittsburg and Jeff Benelli and his wife, Julie of Overland Park, Kansas; a daughter, Krista Thomas and her husband, David of Lawrence, Kansas; and five grandchildren, Heather Benelli, Nathan Thomas, Bailey Thomas, Jakob Benelli, and Jordan Benelli. She was preceded in death by a sister, Mavis Marie Masterson. 

Mass of Christian burial is set for 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 18, 2017, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Father Robert McElwee as celebrant. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Cemetery, Pittsburg. A parish rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m. Monday at the Brenner Mortuary. The family will receive friends following the rosary until 8:00 p.m. Memorials are suggested to the CHM Research Foundation. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Larry Birran

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Larry Gene Birran 69, of Scammon, KS died 2:12pm Friday April 7, 2017 at the Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO. 

Larry was born August 2, 1947 in Columbus, KS the son of Eugene and Carol (Turpin) Birran. He has lived in the area most all his life. Larry was a Veteran of the Army serving his country in the Vietnam War. On July 13, 1968 Larry married Janice M. Thompson in Wichita, KS; she survives at the home. Larry worked as a foreman for ACME Brick in Weir, KS for 39 years and 11 months. He was a member of the Faith Tabernacle Church in Weir, KS; a member of D.A.V.; Peterson Outdoor Ministries; loved scrapbooking, cooking and was known to design the logo for ACME Brick Company. 

Survivors include his wife; children Joyce Schmidt and husband John of Taylor, TX, April Pierce and husband Matthew of Chelsea, OK, Robert Birran and wife Cherry Mae of Weir, KS, Kristy Birran of Scammon, KS and Daniel Birran and wife Mabel of Thorndale, TX; siblings Don Birran of Wichita, KS, Gwen Nelson of Independence, KS, Joe Birran of Wichita, KS, Sandy Hurt of Wichita, KS, Cindy Young of Springfield, MO and Richard Birran of Anaheim, CA; 16 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Larry was preceded in death by his parents. 

Funeral Services will be 10:00am Wednesday April 12, 2017 at the Faith Tabernacle Church in Weir, KS with Pastors James and Jason Fellers officiating. Burial will follow at the Ft. Scott National Cemetery in Ft. Scott, KS. Family will receive friends from 6-8:00pm Tuesday April 11, 2017 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Weir, KS; friends may call after 12:00pm Tuesday. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the Faith Tabernacle Church. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 104 W. Main St. Weir, KS 66781. Online condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. 

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Weir, KS.

Sandra Peak

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Sandra G. Peak 79, of Weir, KS died 4:55pm Sunday April 9, 2017 at the Via Christi Village following complications from multiple health issues.

Sandra was born March 20, 1938 in St. Joseph, M.O the daughter of Roy B. and Ruby F. (Collins) McGeorge. She has lived in the area since 1940 graduating from Pittsburg High School in 1956. Sandra has lived in Weir for the last 40 years. 

On November 18, 1961 Sandra married Patrick F. Peak in Pittsburg, KS. He preceded her in death on December 18, 2003. Sandra worked as a homemaker most of her life. She was of the Catholic Faith, worked as a cancer advocate, participated in Class of 1956 luncheons, enjoyed mowing grass, planting flowers and warm weather. 

Survivors include her children Kerry Peak Boyles of Pittsburg, KS and Kurt Peak of Weir, KS and a grandson Jack Winzer of Pittsburg, KS. A brother, Ralph McGeorge survives.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, brother Henry McGeorge and sister Kay Sims.
Per Sandra’s wishes private burial of cremains will take place at Greenbush Cemetery in Crawford County, KS. Also a Celebration of Life will be set at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to Angels Among Us. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. E-mail condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. 

Arrangements are by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.

Ned Devoe

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Ned Leroy Devoe, age 95, passed away at 10:02 am, Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at Mercy Hospital Joplin, MO following an illness.

Mr Devoe was born June 9, 1921 in Columbus, KS. His parents were Clyde E and Marie Carrie (Childers) Devoe. He was a lifetime resident of Columbus.

He graduated from Columbus High School with the class of 1940. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the US Army Air Corp. He was a member of the Christian Church. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge, the American Legion and the Pipe Fitters Union Local 178, Springfield, Missouri. His favorite pastimes were fishing and camping also spending time with his grandson.

He worked as a pipe fitter for several years until his retirement in 1986. He was also a dairy farmer.

Ned was married to Alma Louise Hamm on Feb 15, 1947 in Columbus, KS She preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his parents, one son, David Devoe, 3 sisters and 1 brother.

Surviving are two sons, Steve Devoe (wife, Debbie), Columbus, KS and Alan Devoe, Burlington, KS; two grandsons, Austin Devoe, Golden CO, and Ross Devoe, Houston, TX; with two great-grandchildren on the way.

Ned was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Columbus KS for cremation.

Ellen Baker

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Ellen Baker, 75, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at 12:19 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, 2017.

Ellen Marie (McColm) Baker was born Nov 1, 1941 in Pittsburg to Charles M. and K. LaVona McColm. Ellen attended Pittsburg schools, graduating from Pittsburg High School in 1959. 

On July 1, 1960, she was united in marriage to Ralph R Baker in Pittsburg. They enjoyed 43 happy years together. He preceded her in death on May 6, 2005. Ellen spent the majority of her working years advocating and caring for developmentally disabled adults and children. Ellen worked for USD 250 DD Preschool, Sunshine School and New Horizons, but her years at CLASS LTD were her most rewarding. She worked for CLASS for over 25 years starting as a coach and retiring as Director of Service. Ellen's dedication and devotion to her clients made a great difference to the betterment of their lives in Crawford and Cherokee counties. 

Ellen is survived by three sons: Scott (Nancy) Baker of Pittsburg; Robert (Tina) Baker of Pittsburg; and "adopted" son Terry Q of the home. Grandchildren: Emily Baker, Overland Park, KS; Mitchell Baker, Pittsburg; Sarah (Zac) Sarley, Asbury, MO; Chadwick Baker, Pittsburg; and Hunter King, Bentonville, AR; great granddaughter: Maycee Sarley; her mother Lavona McColm; sister: Debbie (Steve) Leahan, Pittsburg; brother Charles (Charlotte) McColm, Winfield, KS, nieces and nephews: Melissa (Casey) Mooney; Jaxon and Dawsyn Mooney; Katie Smith; Steven Smith; and her poodle KOKO. Ellen is preceded in death by her husband, Ralph; father, Charles McColm; great-granddaughter, Harper Martin Sarley; maternal grandparents, Roy and Ellen Smith; paternal grandparents, Marie and Fred McColm. Ellen will be remembered for her strong willed temperament and her love and devotion for her family. She will be missed by all who knew her. 

Per Ellen's request, no services are planned at this time. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the NICU at Children's Mercy Hospital in Memory of Harper Martin Sarley. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Esther Vernon

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Esther Lucille Vernon, 96, of Frontenac, Kansas, died April 1, 2017, at Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg, Kansas. 

Esther was born March 10, 1921, in Bladen, Nebraska, to William Howard and Ruby Bertha (Goble) Cramer. The oldest of nine children, she helped raise her five sisters and three brothers after their mother died at age 39. Esther went to grade and high school in Bladen, Nebraska, but transferred to Red Cloud, Nebraska, where she graduated in 1939. After graduation, Esther became a teacher and taught in a one-room school in the Sand Hills of Nebraska. While teaching, she also lived and worked on a ranch near Valentine, Nebraska. It was there that she pursued her passion for riding horses and ice skating. 

Esther was united in marriage to Clyde Alden Vernon in Red Cloud on March 10, 1946. They made their home on a dairy farm south and east of Oberlin, Kansas. After selling the farm in 1962, they became partners with Keith Nicodemus in the Western Auto Store in Oberlin. In 1972, Clyde and Esther bought out Keith's half of the store, remodeled the building, and expanded the appliance business. Esther enjoyed selling housewares and toys at the store. She retired in 1981 to become a housewife. In October 2001, Clyde and Esther moved to Frontenac to be near their daughter. Esther was a member of the Frontenac United Methodist Church, which was an important part of her life. She was always smiling, enjoyed cooking and baking, collected Barbie dolls and loved being at home with her dog, Daisy. 

She is survived by her daughter, Sandra Lynn Turley, of Pittsburg, sisters Mildred Lippelmann of Oberlin, Ruby Joan Niles of Ft. Worth, Texas, and Norma Swanstrom (Don) of Okmulgee, Okla., and many nephews, nieces, other relatives and friends. Esther was preceded in death by her husband Clyde, her parents Howard and Ruby Cramer, and siblings Marybelle Jean Stokes, Donna Faye Rose, William Blosser, Vernon and Glen Cramer. 

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 6, 2017, at Frontenac United Methodist Church, 102 S. Cayuga St, Frontenac, Kansas, with Pastor Annie Ricker officiating. A family burial will take place at a later date in the Oberlin City Cemetery. The family suggests memorials to the Frontenac United Methodist Church and/or SEK Humane Society. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Online condolences may be left at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg.

Carolyn Titus

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Carolyn Jeanne (Key) Titus, 79, of Frontenac, Kansas passed away peacefully at 11:17 A.M. on April 1, 2017 at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas with her children and son in law by her side. 

Carolyn was born in Fort Scott, Kansas on March 29, 1938. She was the daughter of Eva Lucille (Tilton) and Marion Harlan Key. Carolyn was a graduate of Fort Scott High School and Fort Scott Junior College. 

She married Robert “Bob” Carter Titus on July 30, 1960 at the First Church of God in Fort Scott. They met while both were attending Fort Scott Junior College. Bob was drafted in the Army shortly after they were married so they lived briefly in Alexandria, Virginia while he served his country before moving back to Kansas and eventually buying a home in Frontenac, Kansas. Bob passed away on January 3, 1998. Carolyn loved being with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was an avid golfer and enthusiastic bridge player. She held memberships in several duplicate bridge and other bridge groups in the local area. She also enjoyed watching and following professional basketball – especially the Cleveland Cavaliers. Carolyn never shied away from letting you know exactly where she firmly stood. She was a beautiful spirit with a heart of gold. She gave freely, fairly, and without question or expecting anything in return. Her faith was as strong and as deep as her Lord’s love for all of mankind. Carolyn was a Catholic and a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Frontenac and the Sacred Heart Altar Society. She was a past member of the Countryside Ladies Golf Association serving in many capacities including President. Carolyn worked as a telephone operator with Southwestern Bell Telephone. She worked as a clerk in the catalog department of the Montgomery Ward department store in Pittsburg. She also held various bookkeeping and office administrative positions. Most recently she was an office administrative assistant with H & R Block during tax season. Carolyn served over 40 years on the local election boards. 

Carolyn is survived by her two children. Robert Cevin Titus of Overland Park, Kansas and Robin Renee Conrad (husband Tim Conrad) of Kansas City, Kansas. She is also survived by her four grandchildren; Jessica Conrad (fiancé Kevin Franklin), Caitlyn DeLange (husband Derrick DeLange), Morgan Kolenda (husband Jake Kolenda) and her “Special” grandson Titus Conrad. She is also survived and was blessed with two great grandchildren; Derx DeLange and Duke DeLange. Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her brother Gary Lee Key, Sr. of Fort Scott. 

A mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, April 5, 2017 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac with Father Thomas Stroot as celebrant. Burial will take place at the National Cemetery in Fort Scott. The family will receive friends at the church starting at 10:00 AM on the day of the service. The family suggests memorials to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church or the Sacred Heart Altar Society. Donations may be sent to or left at Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th Street, Pittsburg, Kansas 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg.

Ann Ketterman

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Ann Ketterman, 69 of Pittsburg, KS died Saturday, April 1, 2017 at Via Christi Hospital.
Ann was born July 26, 1947 in Topeka, KS to John and Pauline Kennedy.

Survivors include; son, Todd Ketterman (Paula), Pittsburg, KS; daughter, Ann Brown (Anthony), Pittsburg, KS; grandchildren, Hannah Ketterman, Ethan Ketterman, Peyton Brown and Mia Brown. She was also survived by important family members in Topeka, KS and was Grandma Ann to Jake, Will and J.T Morris.

She was preceded in death by her parents; John and Pauline Kennedy, brothers; John and David Kennedy.

There are no services planned at this time. Family will gather at Ann (George) Brown’s home Saturday and Sunday.

The family request that there are no memorial contributions but you may send cards to Friskel Funeral Home.

Alan Tash

(From Parker Mortuary)


Alan Blake Tash, Jr., age 23, Riverton, Kansas, passed away Thursday, March 30, 2017 from injuries he sustained in an auto accident Thursday afternoon south of Joplin.

Alan was born December 13, 1993 in Joplin and had lived in Riverton all of his life.

A graduate of Riverton High School in 2011, he worked as a welder and enjoyed being outdoors and fishing.

He is survived by his wife, Krystal, of the home; daughters, Brileigh and Brynlee Tash; parents, Arley and Pat Tash, Riverton; siblings, Chelsea, Todd, Dillon, Jayda; and several other extended family members.

Services are planned for Monday at 10:00 a.m. at Riverton House of Prayer. Audie Tash, minister, will officiate. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, Galena.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.