Tuesday, August 29, 2017

James Brown

(From Brenner Mortuary)

James Joseph Brown, Jr., 88, formerly of Newberry Park, California, passed away at 1:27 a.m. Monday, August 28, 2017 at the Tall Grass Creek Nursing Home in Overland Park, Kansas where he had been a resident for the past 15 months. 

He was born February 16, 1929 at Arma, Kansas, the son of James Joseph Sr. and Leona (Fourmont) Brown. He married Opal Geary. They later divorced. He then married Joan Earle. She preceded him in death in 2015. Mr. Brown served in the United States Army during the Korean War, from 1954 until 1956. He then served in the Army Reserves for the next six years. Mr. Brown worked in auto sales most of his life. After retiring, he became a professional clown, known as “Gymie-Jo” the clown for the Shriners organization for the next twenty years. Membership was held for over 30 years in the Masonic Lodge and Shriner’s, where he had served as the Ambassador at Large . He was a member of the American Legion, VFW and Elks Lodge for over 30 years. Mr. Brown was also a life long Chicago Cub’s Fan. 

Survivors include a daughter, Laura Holtom and her husband, Brett of Stilwell, Kansas; a son, James Brown, III of Los Angeles, California; a brother, Bill Brown and his wife, Joan of Springfield, Missouri; six grandchildren, Chase James Holtom, Kara (Holtom) Brown, Nate Brown, Austin Brown, Ian Brown, and Olivia Brown and 3 great-grandchildren, Quynn Holtom, Taylor Brown, and Brawlin Brown and his ex-wife, Opal Brown of Pittsburg, Kansas. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan (Earle) Brown. 

Graveside services will be 1:30 p.m. Friday (Sept. 1) at the Garden of Memories Cemetery with Pastor Thomas Wehrman officiating. Friends are requested to meet at the cemetery. The Marvin Armstrong Masonic Lodge #187 will provide graveside Masonic rites. Graveside military rites will be provided by Kansas Military Funeral Detail. Friends may call from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday at the Brenner Mortuary to sign the register. The family suggests memorials be given to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. 

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

Patricia Roark

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Patricia Sue Roark, age 72 passed away at 10:20 am, Monday, August 28, 2017 at her home following an illness.
She was born February 17, 1945 in Columbus. She was one of nine children born to Ernest L and Theo (Kitch) Napier. She had lived in Columbus all of her life.

She had earned a BS degree in Elementary Education at Pitt State University, Pittsburg, KS. She was a member of Columbus Christian Center, Columbus, KS. Patricia was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was considered the rock that held the family together. She enjoyed watching her grandkids' sporting and dance activities. She also enjoyed quilting.
Patricia was married to Robert “Bob” Earl Roark on November 2, 1962 in Columbus, KS. He survives.

Additional survivors include one son, Randy Bob Roark (wife, Karie), Lebanon, MO; 2 daughters, Billie Sue Roark and Terri Lynn Jones (husband, Doug), all of Columbus, KS; two brothers, Jack Napier (wife, Pearl “George”), Weslaco, TX, and Charles Napier (wife, Linda), Columbus, KS; one sister, Norma Strahan Pittsburg, KS; 7 grandchildren Kayla Kirk (husband, Nate), Robbie Newcomb, Natalie Burton (husband, Steven), Paige Thomas, Ryan Thomas, Cole Roark, and Canon Roark; three step-grandchildren, Crestley Jones (fiancĂ©, Brian), Kylie Jones, and Kelsey Jones; and 5 great-grandchildren that all affectionately called her “Pat Pat”; Tatum Kirk, Tyler Kirk, Zoei Ray, Brantley Ray, and Lakynn Burton.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and siblings, Gary Napier, Margaret Taylor and husband Max, Ella Mae Steele and husband Merle, Barbara Reid, Ernest Napier Jr and wife, Lucille, and brother-in-law Dean Strahan.

Patricia was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home for cremation.

A memorial service will be at 10:00 am, Thursday, August 31, 2017 at Derfelt Funeral home, Columbus, KS. Pastor Jim Lewis will officiate. The family will receive friends from 6:00 -7:00 pm, Wednesday August 30, 2017 at Derfelt Funeral Home, Columbus, KS

Monday, August 28, 2017

Bucky Cowan

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Maurice “Bucky” Cowan, 77, of Mulberry, KS, passed away at 6:12 p.m., Sunday, August 27, 2017 at Arma Health and Rehab, Arma, KS. 

He was born May 25, 1940 at Hanson, KY, the son of Paul D. and Nellie (Todd) Cowan. Bucky enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on June 2, 1958 and was honorably discharged on April 19, 1961. 

On August 20, 1960, he was united in marriage to Marilyn Sue Wilson. She survives at the home. Bucky worked for Kansas Department of Transportation and for Bottenfield’s Beauty Supply. He was a member of the Mulberry Post #176 American Legion and Past Commander for 20 years. 

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn of the home; two sons, James L Cowan of Overland Park, KS, and John D Cowan of Texas; two sisters Jean Thomas and Barbara Willis; one brother, Kenny Cowan; four granddaughters, Jamie Brooksher and her husband James of Pittsburg, KS, Jannah Cowan of Pittsburg, KS, Katie Ashcraft and her husband Aaron of Kansas City, MO, Amy Storey of Pittsburg, KS; eight great grandchildren Andrew Golob, Ashlyn Barnhart, Laura Taylor, Gabe Brooksher, Jack Brooksher, Lucy Brooksher, Alex Storey and Kameryn Storey; and his beloved cat George. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters and two brothers.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday (Sept 1) at Brenner Mortuary with Sister Ann Meyer and Adah Hutchcraft. Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 Thursday at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials to Mulberry Funeral Dinner Fund and/or Arma Heath and Rehab Activities Fund. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also send condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E 4th St., Pittsburg, KS.

Saturday, August 26, 2017

Eleanora Belew

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Eleanora L. Belew, 84, of Pittsburg, passed away at 12:55 pm, August 25, 2017, at Via Christi Village in Pittsburg. 

She was born September 11, 1932, the daughter of Paul C. and Helen (Morgan) Calhoun at McCune, KS. She graduated from MRHS at McCune in 1950 and moved to Pittsburg where she worked at the Jones Store a few years. She then took her civil service test and became a clerk-steno for the SRS office in Pittsburg. 

On September 27, 1953, she married her best friend and love, Jim Belew. They always lived in Pittsburg. They had their first son, Kent, in 1958, and Kris in 1960. Eleanora was a stay at home mom and loved her children. When they were in Lincoln School, she volunteered selling savings stamps once a week, and did secretarial work for Mr. Goble, the principal. It always worried her that there was a bike and go-kart track around their house on 19th Street. Mr. Goble said “you can always grow grass when the boys are grown.” She was very active in PTA and received a state pin honoring her work. As the boys got older, she worked at the NAPA store that the Belews ran for over 50 years. When the boys were old enough, they worked there too. They loved their customers and enjoyed meeting several college students employed by the NAPA store. Employees and friends were often entertained at Grand Lake. Memberships were held with the First United Methodist Church, 5 Mary's Guild, Daughters of the Nile, P.E.O. Chapter 10, and the Wednesday Morning Study Club. She also served on the election board many years, and volunteered as a Pink Lady at Via Christi Hospital for several years. She loved people and always had a smile. She loved being a wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Eleanora loved cooking and having company. She also loved entertaining and having Christmas dinners. She and Jim loved traveling and seeing the world and cruising was great. Eleanora also loved riding the Harley with Jim and flying with him. She was a fan of the KU Jayhawks, Royals, Chiefs, and PSU. She liked to read, loved music, and liked doing word finds. Eleanora loved her dachshunds, having many dachshunds over the course of 60 years. 

She is survived by her sister, Elizabeth Scott, Pittsburg, son, Kent (Lorna) and grandchildren, Robin (Carmen) and Brandon (Katharine), great grandchildren, Dakota Reese, Eliana, and Bryce, son, Kris, who passed away on July 31, 2017, his wife, Teresa, and grandsons, Bret (Breanna Rhuems), Rudy (Jessica), and Judd (Madie Polshak), great grandchildren, Carter James and Rowan. She had lifelong friends from school that took many trips together. These friends meant so much to her. They were Leeta Frame Clugston, (now deceased), Coleen Lanfear Parker, Marilyn Millspaugh, Mareta Frame Medlin, and Alice Lou Davison Farmer. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, baby sister, and her son, Kris. 

A funeral service will be at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 29, 2017 at the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, with Reverend Mark Chambers officiating. Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery, Pittsburg. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Friends may call at the funeral home after 1:00 p.m., Monday, to sign the register book. The family suggests memorials to the SEK Humane Society and/or the First United Methodist Church. 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.

Wednesday, August 23, 2017

Peggy Robson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Peggy Colleen Robson, age 83, Frontenac, KS passed away Saturday, August 19, 2017 at Medicalodge of Frontenac.

She was born November 5, 1933 in Yates Center, KS to the late Hale Robson and Ruth Willaby.

Peggy worked as an office manager at Edward D. Jones in Great Bend, KS.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Willaby.

Survivors include four cousins, Brian Willaby, wife, Regina, Springfield, MO, Charles Willaby, wife, Frances, Owasso, OK, Robert Willaby, wife, Beverly, Clearwater, KS and Karl Dixon, wife, Megan, Frontenac, KS.

Burial will take place at a later date in Yates Center Cemetery, Yates Center, KS.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.

Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Josephine Arabia

(From Friskel Funeral Home) 

Josephine “Peppy” Arabia, 92, of Olathe, formerly of Frontenac, KS, died August 19, 2017 at Homestead of Olathe North in Olathe, KS. 

She was born December 28, 1924 in Franklin, KS the daughter of Anton and Anna Gorisek Strukel. She had been a Frontenac resident from 1953 until 2014, when she moved to Olathe to be close to her daughter.

She married Tom Arabia on May 7, 1949 at St. Phillips Catholic Church in Franklin, KS. He preceded her in death in 1970.

Mrs. Arabia worked at the Kansas Ordinance Plant in Parsons and A. & I. Engineering Co. in Pittsburg for a number of years. Later she worked as a domestic worker and care giver for various families until retiring.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac, KS.

Survivors include one daughter Janice M. Roberts of Olathe, one sister Irene Pristernik of Ft. Worth, Texas, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a son Monty Arabia, five brothers Anton, Bill, Jack, Joe (her twin), and Johnny Strukel, four sisters Mary Strukel, Annie Strukel, Frances Girard and Katherine Girard.

Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday, August 24, 2017 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac, with Father Thomas Stroot, as celebrant. Music for the mass is by Sharon Barone. Burial will be in the Pittsburg Garden of Memories. The parish rosary will be recited at 10am Thursday, August 24, 2017 at the Friskel Funeral Home, 230 E. McKay, Frontenac, KS. The family will receive their friends after the rosary service until service time. Friends may call from 10am to 5pm Wednesday, August 23, 2017 at the funeral home. A memorial has been established to the Shrine Crippled Children’s Foundation in care of the funeral home. Condolences for the family may be left at our web site www.friskelfuneralhome.com.

Sunday, August 20, 2017

Donna Hulse

(From Ferry Funeral Home)

Donna Mae Hulse, 74, Bronaugh, MO passed from this life on August 18, 2017 at Mercy Hospital in Ft. Scott, KS. Donna was born September 14, 1942 in Sheldon, MO to Orville Leon and Helen Frances (Highley) Jones. On June 10, 1962 she was united in marriage to Lowell Hulse, Sr. in Nevada, MO and he preceded her in death on September 27, 2010.

Donna attended Nevada High School and graduated Class of 1960. Following high school she worked for a time at Kress Department Store before becoming the postmaster in Bronaugh where she continued to work until her retirement. Donna loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed reading, cooking, was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Donna had a gentle spirit and a heart for always helping others in need.

Survivors include her daughter Nora Lorenda Carlson (Scott), Independence, MO; one son, Lowell Hulse, Jr., Bronaugh; four grandchildren, Sean Carlson, Independence, Jenny Carlson, Independence, Christopher Hulse, Bronaugh, Kayley Spragg, Pittsburg, KS; one sister, Frances Decker (Rex) Versailles, MO. In addition to her husband Lowell, she was also preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. Interment will follow in Newton Burial Park in Nevada. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m. on Monday evening at the funeral home.

Frances Benedict

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Frances Lorene Benedict, 98, of Pittsburg died at 2:40 p.m. on Tuesday, August 15, 2017 at Oakview Estates in Frontenac, KS.

She was born May 21, 1919 in Fleming, KS to Frank Benedict and Frances Cermager Benedict.
Frances graduated from Cherokee, KS High School in 1936. She worked for Pure Delite Ice Cream for 10 years and later worked in the Dietary Department of Mt. Carmel Hospital. For 28 years she was employed as a Costing Clerk for Pittsburg Radio Supply.

She was a devout Catholic and was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Pittsburg. She was a member of the Tuesday Rosary Group. Frances was also a member of the SNPJ, Slovene National Benefit Society. Her greatest joy was attending Mass and giving candy to children after Mass. She had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh and make others laugh.

Survivors include one sister, Rose B. Jackson of Summerville, Georgia and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Frank, Joe and John Benedict and one sister, Mary Henderson. Frances was also preceded by her only son, John A Benedict.

Mass of Christian Burial will be con-celebrated on Monday, August 21st at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church in Frontenac with Father Thomas Stroot and Father Larry Parker. Burial will follow at Highland Park Cemetery in Pittsburg. The Rosary will be prayed on Sunday, August 20 at 6:00 p.m. at the Bath Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg. The family will receive friends following the Rosary until 7:30 p.m. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Bath Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg.

Gavona Hardin

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Gavona Jean Michaels Martin Hardin, 82, died on Thursday, August 17, 2017, at Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community in Manhattan, Kansas.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 24th, at 2:00 PM at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg, Kansas with Rev. Dan Muter officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Park Cemetery, Pittsburg, Kansas. Family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour before the services. 

Condolences and additional information may found at www.bathnaylor.com. Memorial donations can be made to the Walter Martin Blue Key Scholarship fund at Kansas State University and/or the PEO scholarship fund; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. 

Services are under the direction of the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS 66762

Donald Orender

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Donald Paul Orender, 86, went to the Lord on August 18, 2017.

He was born November 28, 1930 to Hurby and Pauline (Hudson) Orender in Pittsburg.

He graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1948 and enlisted in the Air Force serving from 1952 to 1956 as staff sergeant. He married Shirley Farris on September 24, 1955 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. He worked to put himself through what is now PSU graduating with a degree in Marketing and Accounting. He worked as an accountant with local companies until his retirement. He was a convert to the Catholic faith and a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Knights of Columbus and the American Legion.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, his children; Bonnie (Henry) Ford, Charlotte (Scott) Russel, Susie (Mike) O’Laughlin, Flora (Jeff) Beasley, Kathy (Richard) Hadley, Donna Orender-Landrith, Donald (Jackie) Orender, Patrick Orender, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his youngest daughter, Mary Ellen, his parents, a brother, Ivan Orender and sister, Norma Whetzell.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, August 22, at 10 am at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg with Fr. Michael Baldwin as celebrant. Burial will follow at Highland Park Cemetery. The parish rosary will be at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home on Monday evening, August 21 at 7 pm. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Memorials may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Fund. These may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. Services and arrangements are under the direction of Bath Naylor Funeral Home, Pittsburg, KS

Thursday, August 10, 2017

Mark Birdsell

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Mark Todd Birdsell of Miami, OK passed away Wednesday, August 9, 2017 west of Narcissa, OK. He was 44.

Mark was born July 2, 1973 in Denison, TX to Joe and Nancy Jo (Robison) Birdsell. He had lived in Miami most of his life and graduated from Miami High School in 1991. He owned and operated Birdsell’s Tire and Muffler Shop in Miami, OK and was an avid deer hunter.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother.

Survivors include his wife Angela (Phelan) Birdsell of the home, his son Aron Birdsell of Tulsa, OK, his daughter Sierra Birdsell of Miami, OK, his brother Jody Birdsell of Miami, OK and his step brother Ryan Garrett of Baxter Springs, KS

Funeral services will be Monday, August 14, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at the First Assembly of God Church in Miami, OK. Pallbearers will be John (Bucky) Cunningham, Jon Smith, Adam Horn, Eddie Meister, David Harrington and C.J. Newman. Honorary pallbearer will be Randy McMillan. Interment will be in G.A.R. Cemetery in Miami, OK. The family will receive friends from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Paul Thomas Funeral Home Chapel in Miami. Services have been placed in the care of the Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Miami, OK. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com

Marianna Teel

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Marianna Teel was surrounded by family as she left this earth on Thursday, August 10, 2017. She was 85 years old. Marianna was born October 2, 1931 in Scammon, Kansas. Her parents were Virgil and Ada Poor Westervelt. Marianna graduated high school at CCHS Columbus, Kansas, then attended Pittsburg State University. 

In June 1955, Marianna was united in marriage to Robert (Bob) Teel of Columbus, Kansas. Children are Gregg and Kathleen (Daniels) Teel, Overland Park, Kansas, Dean and Sheryl (Koons) Teel, Columbus, Kansas, Brent Teel, Columbus, Kansas and Melissa (Missy) Teel Carnahan and Larry, Columbus, Kansas. 

Surviving grandchildren include Rebecca Teel Harpole, Stephan Teel, Brian Teel, Matthew Teel, Makinzie Teel Andrews, Andrew Teel, Maggie Teel and Aaron Ketcher. Great grandchildren are Alexis Teel and Aliyah Ketcher.

Marianna was preceeded in death by her parents, husband Bob Teel on September 9, 2001, and brother James Westervelt.

Marianna was a committed wife, mother and Christian. After raising their family, Bob and Marianna opened and operated Teel Insurance Agency in Columbus for over 30 years and the business is still in operation.

Funeral Services will be 10:30am Monday August 14, 2017 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Columbus, KS with Pastor Larry Reynolds officiating. Burial will follow at the Park Cemetery in Columbus, KS. Family will receive friend from 6-7:00pm Sunday August 13, 2017 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Columbus, KS; friends may call after 12:00pm Sunday. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the Columbus Community Foundation. Friend may drop off or mail memorials to the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 611 S. East Ave Columbus, KS 66725. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com

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

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Joyce Cumiskey

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Joyce (Henney) Morin Cumiskey, died on August 8, 2017, in Pittsburg, Kansas at the age of 94. 

Joyce was born on January 8, 1923, in Pittsburg, Kansas to William Earl and Nancy Ethel (Fleener) Henney. She graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1940 and attended Kansas State Teachers College. 

She married Wilfred Joseph Morin, a mechanical engineer, on August 30, 1941. While Wilfred was overseas during World War II, Joyce worked at Tinder’s Office Supply. Over the years, Wilfred and Joyce enjoyed flying to Phoenix to visit Wilfred’s family and spending time with family and friends at Grand Lake in Grove, Oklahoma. Wilfred preceded Joyce in death on August 19th, 1983. In 1985, she married Joseph Cumiskey of Pittsburg. He preceded her in death on June 29, 2001. Joyce was the longest standing member of The Presbyterian Church of Pittsburg. She was active in many clubs including Chapter CP in PEO, a 68-year member of the Wednesday Morning Study Club, Les Girls Investment Club and Thursday Luncheon Club. She was a charter member of Crestwood Country Club and enjoyed spending time with her friends there at the Friday Night Dinner Club. Joyce loved serving people so, naturally her favorite job was working as a pink lady in the snack bar at the Mt. Carmel Medical Center. She also loved her family dearly and never missed family gatherings. 

Joyce is survived by her family including: Nancy Bishop and son-in-law Jim of Pittsburg; Bill Morin and daughter-in-law Kay of Pittsburg; Scott Morin and daughter-in-law Nancy of Lago Vista, Texas; step-daughter-in-law Marti Cumiskey of Pittsburg; her six grandchildren, Gina Pinamonti (Brian) of Pittsburg; Lisa Grosdidier (Kelly) of Overland Park; Austin Morin (Hillary) of Lago Vista, Texas; Chase Morin of Denver, Colorado; Abigail Morin of Leander, Texas; and Mike Morin of St. Louis; two step-grandchildren Kevin Cumiskey of Richmond, Kentucky and Kelly Cumiskey of Pittsburg; her six great-grandchildren Mandy and Macy Grosdidier of Overland Park; Sophia, Zoe and Isabella Pinamonti of Pittsburg; Layla Morin of Lago Vista, Texas and two step-grandchildren Kersee Cumiskey and Annlynn Polen of Pittsburg. 

A service for Joyce is set for 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 12, 2017, at The Presbyterian Church of Pittsburg with Pastor K.O. Noonoo officiating. Burial will follow in the Highland Park Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 11, 2017, at the Brenner Mortuary, where friends may call after 12:00 p.m., Friday. The family suggests memorials to The Presbyterian Church of Pittsburg and/or Pittsburg State University Foundation for the Wilfred & Joyce Morin Scholarship Fund. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, Kansas 66762. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

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

Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Linda Laird

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Linda K. Laird, age 70, of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away July 23, 2017 in Ft. Scott.

Linda was born to the late Grover and Oleta Thompson Wilhite, December 25, 1946 in Hollis, Oklahoma. On April 14, 1976 she married Alan Douglas Laird in Hereford, Texas. She went to college to obtain her teaching certificate, and taught school in El Paso, Texas, retiring in 1998. Central Church of Christ in Hereford, TX was where she attended church during her time there, before later moving to Ft. Scott. She enjoyed cooking, reading, staying active in church, and loved teaching with all of her heart.

Surviving is one son: John Laird (wife (Kasey) of Ft. Scott, Kansas, and 2 grandchildren: Kelsey and Lane Laird, also of Ft. Scott; and one brother: Mike (wife Julie), of Yukon, Oklahoma.

Memorial donations may be made to Faith Christian Church, for the backpack and school supply drive; and mailed to 2203 Deer Rd; Garland, KS 66741.

Per Linda’s wishes she has been taken for cremation, under the care of Derfelt Funeral Home, and no services are planned at this time. Online condolences may be left for the family at derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Monday, August 7, 2017

Betty Burgert

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Betty Jane Burgert, 91, of Pittsburg, went to be with Jesus Christ early Sunday morning, August 6, at Via Christi Village. 

She had been a resident of Carrington Place for more than 11 years but had been in and out of Via Christi Village and Via Christi Hospital since shortly after her oldest son Al passed away on June 18. Betty was born July 7, 1926, at Jetmore, Kan., the daughter of Vernon Ward Koontz and Carrie Etta (Rumford) Koontz. She attended public schools in Jetmore and Sterling College in Sterling, Kan., where she met and married Alfred Leland Burgert in 1946. They later both attended and graduated from the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan. Betty and Al moved after college in 1950 to Pittsburg where Betty worked as a homemaker, active volunteer and volunteer leader in numerous church and community organizations for many years. Among them were volunteering at the former Mt. Carmel Medical Center; supporting the Red Cross Bloodmobile program, teaching Sunday school classes at the Presbyterian Church; and hosting a dozen international students at Pittsburg State University. In January 1972 she recruited drivers for and helped start Pittsburg’s Meals on Wheels with sponsorship by Church Women United. She was named “Woman of the Year” for Pittsburg that year. She has been an elder of the Presbyterian Church, served on the executive committee of the Christian Women’s Club and been active with the Pittsburg Family YMCA, Girl Scouts and United Way. 

Betty is survived by another son, Philip L. Burgert of Asbury and Branson, Mo.; a daughter, Maretta K. Jeuland and her husband, Abel of Chicago, Ill.; a granddaughter, Christine Ware of Gladwyne, Pa.; two grandsons, Marc Jeuland (Shuwen) of Chapel Hill, N.C.; and Eric Jeuland (Jane) of New Haven, Conn; one sister, Bonnie Belle Steele of Fort Collins, Colo.; and two half sisters, Ella Mae Mann of Winchester, Ky.; and Eva Isabelle Koontz of Kansas City, Mo.; four great grandsons; one great granddaughter; and numerous nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents; her stepmother, Lillian Mae (Bell) Koontz; her husband; son Alfred Lee Burgert; one sister, Jean Etta Barrows; two brothers, Dale Ward Koontz and Wayne Alton Koontz; and two half brothers, Vernon Ward Koontz Jr. and Charles Denzil Koontz.

A joint memorial service will be held for Betty and her son Al at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 10, at the Presbyterian Church with the Rev. K. O. Noonoo officiating. Private family burial will be in Sterling Cemetery at Sterling at a later date. The family will receive friends following the services in the parlor at the Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to the Contemporary Worship Service of the Presbyterian Church. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, Kan. 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

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

Sunday, August 6, 2017

Vallajean Younger

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Vallajean Younger, 80 of Pittsburg, KS left this earth to be with the lord at 7:05 am Sunday, July 30, 2017 at Girard Medical Center.

She was born April 20, 1937 in Oklahoma, the daughter of Clint and Thelma Roberson. 

She attended high school in Chelsea, Oklahoma and graduated from Oklahoma State University with a Home Economics degree. She was the director of W.I.C for over 20 years and was the nutrient coordinator for S.E.K Headstart for over 15 years.

Vallajean loved to garden, volunteer in the community and spend time with her family. She was known for her famous chocolate chip cookies.

Survivors include three sons: Thomas (Ginny) Younger of Pittsburg, KS, Charles (Julia) Younger of Platte City, Missouri, Gary (Amiee) of Claremore, OK, two sisters, Ermalea Frisbee of Poway, CA and Nadine Roberson of Bakersfield, CA, eight grandchildren: Todd Arbuckle, Kayla Younger, Chelsea Hogue, Sam Younger, Dan Younger, Ryan Younger, Logan Younger, Silas Younger, five great-grandchildren: Austin Younger, Ian Younger, Hayden Younger, Cody Arbuckle, Brayden Seaferd. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Clint Roberson and one sister Rachel Cummins.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS.

Faye Smith

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Faye Rochelle Smith, 65 of Mindenmines, MO, passed away on July 31, 2017.

She was born October 6, 1951 in Pittsburg, KS, the daughter of Daniel and Vessie (Hannah) Wallace.

Faye was a member of the 1969 Graduating Class of Pittsburg High School, Pittsburg, KS. She earned her B.S. and M. A. at Pittsburg State University.

Smitty taught English and Driver’s Education at Pittsburg High School.

She is survived by her husband Gene Hendrickson of the home, son Jared and wife Erin, son Bryan and wife Candice, and two granddaughters Sydney and Morgan Smith.

She was preceded in death by her parents Daniel and Vessie Wallace, grandmother Rose Taylor, and brothers Harry and Winston Taylor.

Memorial services will be 11 am Saturday, August 12, 2017 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home with Bishop Walter N. Simpson officiating. Inurnment of cremains will follow the services at the Mt. Olive Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home at 10 am, one hour prior to the services. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests donations in Faye’s memory to the Pittsburg Unified School District 250 Foundation; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. Services are under the direction of the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS.

Donna Froebe

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Donna Jeanne Froebe 93, of Columbus, KS died 7:10pm Tuesday August 1, 2017 at the Medicalodge Nursing Home in Columbus, KS following an illness.

Donna was born February 29, 1924 in Chanute, KS the daughter of Windell A. and Dessie Isabell (White) Lamb. 

On May 5, 1943 Donna married Raymond Charles Froebe in Independence, KS; he preceded her in death on February 28, 1981. Donna worked most of her life as a homemaker but later worked in the kitchen fixing meals at Medicalodge in Columbus for the residence. Donna was a member of the First Baptist Church in Columbus, KS; was the President of Sharing and Caring Group; loved to do embroidery and cross stitching in her free time. Family was the most important thing in her life.
Survivors include her children Carol Smith of Carrollton, TX, Ilene K. Myers and husband Don of Norfolk, NE, David E. Froebe and wife Karol of Parsons, KS and Randy W. Froebe and wife Debra of Columbus, KS; daughter-in-law Edith Look and husband Roger of Spencer, NE; grandchildren Lynnette Smith, Matthew Myers, Melissa Fehrs, Cory Froebe, Jacob Froebe, Nathan Froebe, Katrina Froebe, Paula Matheson, Amber Weber, Angela Look and Ryan Look; many great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. 

Donna was preceded in death by her husband, parents, son Gary Keith Froebe, brothers Ardis Lamb and Donald Lamb and grandchildren Crystal Froebe and Tina Pinkerman. 

Funeral Services will be 10:00am Saturday August 5, 2017 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Columbus, KS with Pastor John Stone officiating. Burial will follow at the Liberty Cemetery in Liberty, KS. Family will receive friends from 7-8:00pm Friday August 4, 2017 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Columbus, KS; friends may call after 1:00pm Friday. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the First Baptist Church in Columbus, KS. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 611 S. East Ave. Columbus, KS 66725. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com

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

Tuesday, August 1, 2017

Charles Youvan

(From Friskel Funeral Home)

Charles F. Youvan 82, of Frontenac, KS died 530pm Friday July 28, 2017 at the Carrington Place in Pittsburg, KS following an illness. 

Charles was born April 3, 1935 in Frontenac, KS the son of Frank and Edith (Menghini) Youvan. He was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of Frontenac High School in 1952. On April 19, 1954 Charles married Luana L. Layden at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church; she survives at the home. Charles worked as a Dental Technician for 60 years at Youvan Dental in Frontenac, KS. 

Charles was a member of the Methodist Church in Frontenac, KS; he enjoyed flying airplanes in his early years; loved family history and the history of Frontenac, KS; was known to be very supportive of his wife, grandchildren and his only great-grandchild. 

Survivors include his wife Luana of the home that Charles built in 1959; children Douglas C. Youvan and wife Josi of Frontenac, KS, Kimberly D. Youvan of Pittsburg, KS, Eric N. Youvan of Arma, KS; grandchildren Joel T. Youvan, Annabelle O.L. Davis, Abigayle L. R. Davis, Jesse E. L. Davis, Julian N.C. Davis, Ian A. Youvan and Alexis A. Youvan and one great-grandchild Karmyn I. Davis.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, brother Donald Youvan, father and mother-in-law Frank and Lorreine Layden and brother in law Ron Layden. 

Celebration of Life will be 2:30pm Saturday August 5, 2017 at the Carrington Place in Pittsburg, KS. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the Frank Layden Elementary School. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to the Friskel Funeral Home 230 E. McKay Frontenac, KS 66763. 

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Friskel Funeral Home of Frontenac, KS.

Kris Belew

(From Friskel Funeral Home)

Kris C. Belew 56, of Mulberry, KS died 8:00pm Monday July 31, 2017 at his home surrounded by family and friends. Kris was born November 29, 1960 in Pittsburg, KS the son of James and Eleanora (Calhoun) Belew. He was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of Pittsburg High School in 1978. 

On March 3, 1984 Kris married Teresa Brunetti at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac, KS; she survives at the home. Kris worked in his family’s Pittsburg Automotive Store in Pittsburg, KS for many years until he bought Frontenac’rs Convenient Store and Tanning Salon in 2001. He and his wife Teresa operated the store until 2013. He later worked for Crawford County until becoming ill. 

Kris was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac, KS. He joined the Mirza Shrine in 1979 when his father Jim was potentate and is still a member. Kris had many fun hobbies and loved spending time at the lake and family was the most important thing in his life.
Survivors include his wife; children Bret Belew and Breanna Rhuems of Franklin, KS, Rudy Belew and wife Jessica of Topeka, KS and Judd Belew and Madison Polshak of Pittsburg, KS; mother Eleanora Belew of Pittsburg, KS; brother Kent Belew and wife Lorna of Pittsburg, KS; Mike and Nancy Natalini and family of Frontenac, KS; grandchildren Carter and Rowan Belew of Topeka, KS and his 4 dogs and kitty also survive. 

Kris was preceded in death by his father. 

Private Graveside Rights will be at a later date at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Pittsburg, KS. A Rosary will be recited at 6:00pm Thursday August 3, 2017 at the Friskel Funeral Home in Frontenac, KS. A celebration of his life will immediately follow the rosary with family receiving friends. Friends may call the funeral home after 12:00pm on Thursday. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the SEK Humane Society. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to the Friskel Funeral Home 230 E. McKay Frontenac, KS 66763. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Friskel Funeral Home of Frontenac, KS.

Wilma Jennings

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Wilma Louise Jennings, 96, of Columbus, KS passed from this life on Sunday, July 30, 2017 at Medicalodge, Columbus, KS.

Wilma Louise Jennings was born September 29, 1920 in rural Columbus to William E. (Ed) and Louise Heinrichsmeier Jennings.

Wilma attended rural Center Star school and graduated from Cherokee County Community High School with the class of ’38.

During her youth she enjoyed, among other things, her activities as a member of the Central 4-H Club and, in later years, with the Progresssive Home EHU. She and her sister enjoyed traveling after retirement, both in all 50 states and to Africa and Australia/New Zealand.

Wilma worked for Boeing Aircraft Co. in Witchita during WW-II. Then, for more than 32 years, she was employed by the Veterans Administration Hospitals at Wadsworth, KS and in Kansas City, MO as a secretary and clerical supervisor, retiring in 1979 and returning to Columbus in December of 1980.

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, after having been a member of the former Mennonite church in rural Columbus since childhood, and was a member of the United Methodist Women. She had been a member of the Columbus Museum Assoc., the Maude Norton Hospital Auxiliary and NARFE Chapter 550 of Pittsburgh.

She spent her last few years in the care of Autumn Place in Columbus, and enjoyed the fellowship and ministry provided to the residents by Center Christian Church.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by sisters Elsie Jennings and Helen Minish, and nephew Donald Minish. She is survived by her niece Mary Minish of Worland, WY and nephew John Minish of Missoula, MT and many very dear cousins.

Services will be Friday, August 4th at the Derfelt Funeral Home in Columbus at 2:00pm. Pastor Tom Goettel will officiate. Burial will be following the service at the Edgmand Cemetary northwest of Columbus. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com