Frances Oler

(From Carson-Wall Funeral Home)

Frances E. Oler, 94, a resident of the Elmhaven East Nursing Home in Parsons, died there at 6:02 p.m., Tuesday, June 26, 2018.

She was born February 15, 1924, at Caldwell, KS to Leslie and Emma (Moore) Lynam The family moved to Parsons during her childhood and she graduated from Parsons High School in 1941.
On July 11, 1942 she and Virgil Oler married at Belvidere, Ilinois. He preceded her in death on February 10, 2010. 

Frances was employed at the Kansas Army Ammunition Plant from 1967 until her retirement, at age 82, in 2006. For many years she was a member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary. 

She is survived by a son, Gary Oler and wife Karen, of Owasso, OK; a daughter, Deanna Hopper and husband Paul, of Parsons; five grandchildren, Mark Hopper and wife Sharla, Douglas Hopper and wife Sharon and Scott Hopper, all of Parsons and Michealle Malone and husband Jeff of Collinsville, OK and Kimberly Cory and husband Brian, of Owasso, OK; eight great-grandchildren and 9 great-great-grandchildren; a brother Jack Lynam, of Tulsa, OK.

Preceding her in death were five brothers, two sisters and a great-granddaughter.

FUNERAL SERVICES –will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, at the Carson-Wall Funeral Home, with Rev. Pauline Clugston officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Lawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6 to 7 p.m., Friday.

Memorials are suggested to either Kindred Hospice or the V.F.W. Auxiliary. They may be left at or sent to the funeral home at Box 942, Parsons, KS 67357. Online messages may be left at www.wallfuneralservices.com.

Amos Leonard

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Amos James Leonard died on June 28, 2018, at Via Christi Village, Pittsburg, Kansas of complications of Parkinson's disease. Amos was born December 21, 1937, near Hope in Bartholomew County, Indiana, shortly after his family moved there from Sullivan County, Tennessee. He was the sixth child in the family of nine children of Airy Newell Leonard and Burnice B. (Millsap) Leonard.

Late in the 1940's, Amos's family moved to a farm near McCune, Kansas, when Amos was in the 6th grade. He graduated in 1955 from McCune Rural High School. He attended Pittsburg State University for two years after which he became a machinist for Boeing Aircraft at Wichita. He then worked for ACME Brass Works for four years in Kansas City, Missouri.

From 1960 to 1962, he served in Frankfort, Germany in Army Intelligence (H&S Btry 1st Msl Bn 32d Arty) as the war room clerk for United States, and NATO obtaining the rank of Spec4 (E4) (T).

Upon returning home to McCune, he began dating his future wife, Sharon E. Huff, daughter of Paul and Margaret (Bowin) Huff. They were married at the Osage Church of the Brethren on July 25, 1964. She survives at the home.

Like his brothers and his father, Amos became a master carpenter. Although he did some commercial work, his interest was in building houses. He was a housing contractor for over 30 years. His sense of design and his talent for his craft stand as lasting tributes to him.

Other survivors are their son, James David Leonard, and their three grandsons: Cody James Leonard, Camden James Leonard and Nolan Cooper Leonard; two sisters, Thelma A. Barr and her husband, Kenneth of Independence, MO; Elvalee (Lee) Winburn and her husband, Richard of Weston, MO; two brothers, David N. Leonard and his wife, Sandy of Oak Grove, MO; and Rufus A. Leonard and his wife, Pat of Bloomfield, NM. In addition he is survived by in-laws and a host of loving nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by one brother, Audery L. Leonard; three sisters: Martha Jane (Janie) Hiller, Margaret M. (Brownie) Hartman, and W. Lucille Romig.

A service for Amos will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, July 2, 2018, at the Osage Church of the Brethren, McCune, KS, with the Reverend Robert Simonsick officiating. Burial will follow in the Osage Brethren Cemetery near the church, where a flag folding ceremony will be provided by the Kansas Military Funeral Honors Team. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., Sunday, at the Brenner Mortuary. Friends may call at the funeral home to sign the register book after 12:00 p.m., Saturday. The family suggests memorials to the Osage Church of the Brethren and/or Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research and/or Harry Hynes Hospice. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St, Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary.

David Potter

(From Brenner Mortuary)

David Potter, 63, of Overland Park, KS, passed away on Tuesday, June 19, 2018, at the Kansas City Hospice House.

He was born October 9, 1954, in Pittsburg, KS, to Leonard and Katherine (Parker) Potter. David graduated from Frontenac High School in 1972. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Technology degree with a major in Manufacturing Technology from Pittsburg State University in 1978, while working full-time at McNally’s.

On July 18, 1981, he was united in marriage to Pamela Rogers in the Rose Garden at Loose Park in Kansas City, MO. She survives of the home.

He was a manufacturing supervisor at Honeywell FM&T retiring after 31 years in 2009. An avid car enthusiast, he was the proud owner of a 2008 Corvette and member of the Corvette Club of Kansas City. He attended the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, KS. He enjoyed traveling to Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Savannah, Pensacola, and Daytona Beach.

He is also survived by his two daughters and their spouses, Dr. Amy E. Potter (Schmutz) of Savannah, GA, and her husband Dr. Phillip Schmutz of Pensacola, FL, and Candice M. Diddle and her husband Jerry of Overland Park, KS; his sister, Barbara Schrag (husband Gary) of Overland Park, KS; his grandchildren, Christina Diddle of San Ramon, CA, Matthew Diddle (wife Claire) of Kansas City, MO, and Nicholas and Christopher Diddle of Overland Park, KS; his sister-in-law, Linda Richardson (husband Ellis) of Pittsburg, KS; his four nieces, Cindy Van Becelaere, Tysha Van Becelaere and Polly Cicero of Pittsburg KS, and Kim Taylor of Council Bluffs, IA; a nephew, Dr. Mike Potter of Clearwater, FL; and his father-in-law, John Rogers, Jr. of Pittsburg, KS.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jim and Larry Potter; and mother-in-law, Vola Rogers.

He is joining his beloved cat Spooky but leaving behind his princesses Cashmere and Sapphire.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Tuesday (July 3) at the Garden of Memories Cemetery with Reverend Gary Schrag officiating. The family suggests memorials to the Wayside Waifs of Kansas City, MO. 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.

Steve Madison

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Steven Richard Madison, 67, of Weir, Kansas passed away on June 24th, 2018 at his home and went to be with the lord.

Steve was born on September 25th, 1950 to George and Thelma (McVickers) Madison in Rockford, Illinois. He was the youngest of four children. He attended elementary school at Cherokee and later attended and graduated from Southeast High School in 1968. While at Southeast he was a 2 sport, Basketball and Football, all league athlete, while earning all-state honors and receiving a scholarship to play at the University of Kansas.

In May of 1984 he Married Kathryn Irena Geier. They lived in Weir, Kansas where they raised 2 children, Barbi & Joey, as well as Robert Spragg.

He worked for Koch Chemicals for around 30 years, while finishing his career at Jasper Products. A man like Steve can never be replaced, only remembered and respected.

Steve was a well-respected man and loved by many. Family was the most important thing to him along with values, morals, and ethics. He was an avid sports fan who loved the Royals, Chiefs, and his Jayhawks. He was an avid golfer for many years.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife Kathy of the home, Joey Ross (and Kimberly) of Weir, and Barb Middleton (and Craig) of Ormond Beach, Florida; ten grandkids, Alliah, Drew, Hannah, Jesse, Austin, Alyssa, Kaileigh, Kalee, Zack, Gavin; 1 great-grandchild Addalyn; 12 nieces and nephews, and many great nieces and nephews.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Jerry & Bob Madison, niece Kristina and a great niece.

A Memorial service for Steve will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday (June 28) at the Brenner Mortuary with Rev. Aaron Williams officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Brenner Mortuary, where friends may call after 10 a.m. A celebration of life is to follow at the Weir Civic Center. Side dishes are appreciated as main meal will be provided. The family suggests memorials to the United Veteran’s 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.

Regina Swan

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Regina Ann Swan, age 64 of Baxter Springs, KS passed away at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO on June 21, 2018.

Regina was born on August 13, 1953 to the union of William Jacob Long and Shirlieanne (Dixon) Long. After graduating high school, she spent many years working as a hotel manager. She was a member of the Eastern Star Amy Chapter, and enjoyed sewing, knitting, and cooking.

Regina was united in marriage with Billy R. Swan, Jr. on December 14, 1991 in Magnolia, TX. He survives.

Additional survivors include four sons, Nicholas of Baxter Springs, Ayden of Baxter Springs, Michael of Tomball, TX, and Bryan of Tomball, TX; and one daughter, Misty of Spring, TX; as well as 7 grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Shirlieanne.

Mrs. Swan was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena for cremation. The Family will hold a memorial service at 11:00 AM Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Galena. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Cheryl Specht

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Cheryl Ann Krieger-Specht 60, of Pittsburg, KS died Saturday June 16, 2018 at the home of her daughter following a courageous battle with cancer. 

Cheryl was born May 31, 1958 in Denver, CO the daughter of Raymond and Josephine (Henshaw) Krieger. Cheryl earned her Associates Degree at Friends University, Wichita KS. Cheryl recently worked as a Certified Pharmacy Technician for Lindburg Pharmacy in Pittsburg, KS. She was a member of First Denver Friends Church from childhood; Sunflower Kiwanis; she enjoyed paper crafting, sewing, walking, flower gardening, furniture refinishing and concrete crafts.

Survivors include her children Hannah Joy Pommier and husband Alan of Pittsburg, KS, Jeremiah Specht, Micah Jordan Specht and Ashley Lopez of Piqua, KS, Paul Joseph Krieger and fiancée Brittany Gapa of Wellington, KS; sisters Jolene Roberts (Jay) of Westminster, CO and Lynnette Krieger-Zook (David) of Buhler KS; grandson Gabriel Ray Pommier. She loved deeply her numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews calling each of them “her favorite”.
Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents. 

Funeral Services will be 9:00 am Saturday June 23, 2018 at the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Fr. Jerome Spexarth as celebrant. Burial will follow at the Highland Park Cemetery in Pittsburg, KS. Meal and Celebration of life at Carbon Creek following the burial. Carbon Creek 981 S 190th Pittsburg, KS. Rosary will be recited at 6:30pm Friday June 22, 2018 at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home, Pittsburg, KS; family will receive friends immediately following the rosary. Please send flowers and love in this time of need. Memorials may be sent to Wichita Friends School. Friends are asked to drop off or mail memorials to Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. Condolences may be sent to www.bathnaylor.com. 

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

Jimmy Gipson

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

James Michael (Jimmy) Gipson, age 51, entered the gates of Heaven in the early evening hours of June 17, 2018 at Freeman Hospital, Joplin, Missouri following a short illness.

Born January 25th, 1967 in Jackson, Mississippi, he was the son of Bill and Ila (McCandless) Gipson, of Riverton, Kansas. He graduated from Riverton High School in 1985. Jim was employed at YRC, Incorporated in Baxter Springs, Kansas.

He was a faithful member of First Baptist Church in Galena, Kansas.

Jimmy’s passion was spending time with his family. He enjoyed fishing, family cookouts, Matthew’s bonfires, and listening to 80’s music. Another passion was coaching all four of his children in various sports. He was known to many in the community as ‘Coach.’

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Lori (Hunt) Gipson; his three daughters, Emily (Gipson) Beets and husband Paul, Riverton Kansas; Kaitlyn Gipson and Madisyn Gipson, of the home; one son, Matthew Gipson, of the home; one year old grandson, Sylas Beets; one sister, Tani (Gipson) Montee, Riverton, Kansas; one brother, Kevin Gipson (wife Westy,) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; several nieces and nephews.

Memorial Services will be held Sunday, June 24th, 2018 at 2:00 First Baptist Church, 7th & Euclid, Galena, Kansas. In leui of flowers monetary donations may be made in memory of Jimmy to First Baptist Church in Galena, Kansas or Hope Lodge, St. Louis. 4215 Lendall Boulevard, St. Louis, Missouri 63108.

“to have complete and total faith!” -Jimmy Gipson

Wendell Barrow

(From Carson-Wall Funeral Home)

Wendell Dale Barrow, 80, passed away peacefully at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, June 17, 2018, at the Girard Medical Center with his family present.

He had been a resident of the Girard Medicalodge since November 2016 from complications of Parkinson’s disease.

He had lived on the family farm southwest of Girard since 1994.

Wendell was born September 15, 1937 in Girard, Kansas, to Roscoe Wylie Barrow and Mildred Marie Clutter Barrow.

He attended Gooding Grade School and graduated from Girard High School in 1955 where he was an honor student. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Kansas State College of Pittsburg (now PSU) in 1959. He was junior class president and a member of honorary mathematic, military and social fraternities and the American Chemical Society. He graduated from ROTC as a second lieutenant in the United States Army and was assigned at Ft. Bliss, Texas. Following his service, he moved to Port Arthur, Texas where he worked for Jefferson Chemical Company from 1960-1973. He worked as a national sales manager at various other chemical companies based in Houston, Austin and Chicago, traveling internationally. He retired in 1994 from Merichem Chemical in Houston as General Sales Manager.

Wendell married Sherron Jo Sparks in Abilene, Texas on August 5, 1961, and had two sons and later divorced. He married Ramona Troike Weber on September 13, 1997 in Girard, Kansas.
Wendell enjoyed outdoor sports such as hunting and fishing. One of his passions in retirement was attending auctions in this area in his Texas cowboy hat. He also sold for Mendenhall Apiaries and enjoyed coffee with his class members. 

He was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church of Girard.

Survivors include his wife Ramona of the home, sons Douglas Dwayne Barrow (Blair) of Fairfax, Virginia, and Darin Roberts Barrow (Angela) of League City, Texas and his sister Treva Sherman (Jon) of Pittsburg, Kansas.

Services for Wendell D. Barrow will be 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 20, 2018 at the Trinity Lutheran Church of Girard. Burial will follow in the Girard Cemetery.

No visitation is planned. Friends may call after 2:00 p.m., Tuesday at the Smith-Carson-Wall Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Trinity Lutheran Church and these may be left at the funeral home or mailed to the Smith-Carson-Wall Funeral Home, 518 W. St. John, P.O. Box 258, Girard, Kansas 66743.
Condolences may be sent to www.wallfuneralservices.com

Janese Correll

(From Carson-Wall Funeral Home)

Janese A. Correll, 67, of Parsons, passed away at 1:05 p.m., Friday, June 15, 2018 at her home. She had been in failing health.

She was born on September 7, 1950 at Parsons to George Owen and Janese June (Moore) Keiter. She grew up at Parsons and attended Parsons schools graduating from Parsons High School in 1968.

She and Bob Correll were married on February 14, 1968 at the First United Methodist Church in Parsons. They later divorced.

She lived in Germany for two years while her husband was stationed in the Army there. They moved back to Parsons.

She later attended Pittsburg State University and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Education in 1984. She worked at Tri-County Interlocal as a Gifted Educator for various school districts in southeast Kansas. She resided in Independence, Galesburg, Wichita, and Parsons over the years. Teaching was her passion.

She loved her dogs, spending time with her grandchildren, watching her favorite television shows, talking on the phone, and swimming in her pool. She was a member of the KNEA and NEA.

Janese is survived by her son, Dr. Craig Correll, and his wife, Shana of Coffeyville; her daughter, Barbara Correll of Parsons; two grandchildren, Caleb Correll, and his wife, Amber of Wichita and Ayanna Correll of Parsons; two great-grandchildren Jaci Correll and Corbin Correll; her brother, Bill Keiter, and his wife, Carol Lee of Lenexa, KS; two nephews, Drew Keiter and Jason Keiter; great nieces, Olivia Keiter and Riley Keiter; and special friend, Kim Bartelli of Parsons. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, June 21, 2018 at the Carson-Wall Funeral Home with Chaplain Wayne Mason officiating. Burial will follow in the Memorial Lawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 7 to 8 Wednesday evening. Memorials are suggested to the Proud Animal Lovers Shelter and these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home 112 N. 26th St., P.O. Box 942 Parsons, KS 67357. Online condolences may be left at www.wallfuneralservices.com.

Goldie Bryant

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Goldie Cathleen Bryant, age 53 passed away Monday evening, June 18, 2018 at her home following an illness.

Goldie was bon August 3, 1964 in St Louis MO. Her parents were Clarence F and Delores M (Lawson) Woods. She had lived here for the past 17 years moving from St Roberts, MO.

She was a homemaker.

Surviving are her daughters, Amanda Bryant, Columbus, and Lyne Rosencrans, State of Illinois; grandchildren, Anastasha Bryant, Xavier Bryant, Payton Rosenchrans; mother, Delores Sumpter, Desloge, MO; brothers, Dennis Sumpter (Julie), MineralPoint, MO, Clarence Woods Jr (Monica) Parkhills, MO, James Woods, (Tammy) Richwoods, MO; sisters, Margaret Junker, Clarksville, TN, Sandra Home, Tulsa, OK, and Stacey Young (Travis) Desloge, MO; and several nieces and nephews.

She was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Columbus KS for cremation. No services are planned.

Mary Franks

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Mary Irene Franks, 79, of Pittsburg, passed away at 10:10pm Wednesday, June 13, 2018 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, MO after a short illness.

She was born December 4, 1938 in Fort Scott, Kansas, the daughter of Charles and Hattie (Benskin) Rigensberg. 

Mary graduated from Pittsburg High School. She worked as a CNA for 20 years and was certified as a Med aide. She enjoyed Bingo, playing with her grandkids, reading, bird watching and caring for her animals.

Survivors include son; Donald (Georgeanna) Franks of North Carolina, 5 daughters; Christina (Randy) Taylor of Oklahoma, Kathy (Jeff) Brooks of Missouri, Diana Haynes of Kansas, Donna Franks of Kansas, Rebecca Robertson of Kansas, brother; Donald (Virginia) Rigensberg of Kansas, sister; Lora (Jack) Selby of Missouri, 8 grandchildren; Ryan Taylor, Jamie North, Emily Brooks, Andrew Browne, Jessica Gilliland-Haynes, Christina Russell, Brandy Martinez, Anthony Smith, 11 great-grandchildren; Braxton Martinez, Izabella Martinez, Grayson Martinez, Boston Cook, Brixton Cook, Bretley Cook, Ciaran Walker, Madison Russell, Avonel Russell, and Vanessa Taylor.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; Charles and Hattie Rigensberg and great-grandson; Kaidon Martinez.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am, Monday, June 18, 2018 at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg. Burial will follow in Crocker Cemetery. Memorials may be left to the Ronald McDonald House; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home.

Wallace Burke

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Wallace W Burke, age 87, passed away at 2:20 am Sunday, July 10, 2018 at Via Christi Hospital, Pittsburg following an illness.

Mr Burke was born June 7, 1931 in Pittsburg. His parents were Wallace F and Mina (Anderson) Burke. He was a lifetime resident of Pittsburg.

He was a Korea War veteran of the US Army, serving in active duty from 1952 – 1954. He then entered the Army Reserves until his discharge in 1960.

He was a mechanic working in the automotive industry.

His wife, Sandy Burke passed away 12 years ago. He was also preceded in death by one son, Sam Burke, his parents, 2 brothers, and 1 sister,

Surviving is one daughter, Reva Meadows, Frontenac, KS; 4 sons, Mickey Burke, Danny Burke, and Willie Burke, all of Pittsburg, and Jay Burke, Olathe, KS; and 9 grandchildren.

He was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS for cremation.

His cremated remains will be buried in the Fort Scott KS National Cemetery. Military rites will be at 1:30, pm on Friday, June 22, 2018 at the cemetery.

Helen McCain

(From Paul Thomas Funeral Home)

Helen Marie McCain of Baxter Springs, KS passed from this life Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at Oswego Nursing Home. She was 77.

Helen was born April 14, 1941 in Blytheville, AK to Quintin and Lucille (Priest) Harrison.
Helen was a waitress in local restaurants for many years. She was of the Baptist faith.

Helen was preceded by her husband James McCain, 2 children and 2 grandchildren.

Survives include her son Charles Steven Wells, 3 daughters Vickie Worthey, Robin Childers and Brandi Isom, sister Deloris A. Earnest, 12 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be Monday, June 11, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Galena, KS. Pastor Bob Martin will officiate. 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

Stanley Epperly

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Born October 3, 1957, the youngest child of Lawrence Edward and Betty Lue Harmon Epperly of Laguna Beach, California. His father told him he was named after his two best friends, a Chinaman named Art Luchi and a drunken painter, Stan White.

Stan left home on his 18th birthday and completed high school while living with his brother in southern California.

He enlisted in the Army in March of 1977 as a Track Vehicle Mechanic and trained at Fort Knox, Kentucky before receiving his Battalion assignment. Given the choice between Fort Leonard Wood and Fort Riley he chose the one closest to California.

It was at Fort Riley he met the love of his life Debby, who would be with him for the next 40 years.
Of course, being the stubborn bachelor he was he fell in love with her son JJ, who became the child of his heart and stuck around long enough to fall for the mom too.

Stan married Debby (Deborah Lynn Frevele) on October 6th, 1977 on a beach at Lake Milford near Fort Riley. They resided in Junction City.

He did his Army service: keeping the B. Motor Pool Vehicles in top mechanical condition and training ROTC cadets in the operation of those vehicles.

In 1980 the Epperly’s moved to Paradise, California to begin their lives as civilian family.
June of 1982 saw the family increasing and job prospects dwindling so a move back to rural Kansas to raise their child on the way in a safer environment.

Stan’s first job was on the 4th Street Project for the (then) new high school. At the end of that he worked for Pittsburg Sanitation for 5 years. The job at Tyrell’s ran from 1985 to 1994. He then worked maintenance at Superior until the plant closed in 2008, while also working for (Freddie Van).
His last years were filled with pain from spinal degenerative disease, COPD and diabetes with all its complications. But he refused to give up. A surgery for repair of some of the back damage was followed by a heart attack which had Stan re-defining Triathlon, I told him it's not supposed to mean 3 hospitals in 3 days! But after open heart surgery, numerous cardiac cath procedures, as well as the second half of the 2nd part back procedure and another mild cardiac event. We thought he was getting better.

Stan is survived by his wife of 40 years of the home, Deborah Lynn Frevele Epperly; son, Lawrence Edward Epperly II (Buck) and Pam of Colorado; daughter-in-law, Amiee Lynn Smith Epperly; 3 grandchildren, Zahn David Epperly, Rowan John Epperly and Lilea Rhiannon Nicole Epperly. As well as too many nieces and nephews to accurately count and depends on who is claiming us this week.

Preceded in death by Lawrence Edward Epperly (1912-1990), John Joseph Jake Epperly (1971-1990) and Betty Lue Harmon Epperly Adams (1924-2001)

Memorial services will be 7 pm Monday, June 11, 2018, at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg with Chaplin Darrell Martin officiating. Family will receive friends before the services from 6 pm until service time.

Tim Flora

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Timothy D. Flora, 60 of Frontenac, KS went to be with the Lord on Tuesday evening, June 5, 2018 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, MO.

He was born March 7, 1958 in Ft. Scott, KS the son of Roy and Eva (Roberts) Flora.

Tim worked for the Crawford Co. Highway Department for many years on the Roads and Bridges crew.

Tim lived his life by the Christian Faith. He loved to fish and in his younger years was an avid body builder.

Survivors include Becky Morey of the home, two brothers: Carl (Kathy) Flora and Randy (Kathryn) Flora both of Frontenac; a sister Reta (Dwayne) Windsor of Pittsburg; five children: Hannah Flora Bain, Ashley Flora, Jared Flora, Levi (Katie) Morey and Trevor Morey; mother-in-law Neona Scott and father-in-law Don Scott along with 5 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will receive friends at the Friskel Funeral Home in Frontenac from 6-8 pm Sunday, June 10, 2018. Inurnment will be in the Frontenac City Cemetery at a later date. Condolences may be left at www.friskelfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to the Lighthouse Tabernacle for Gods work, COPD Foundation or the SEK Humane Society; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of the Friskel Funeral Home of Frontenac, KS.

Jolene Robinson

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Jolene Zacarello-Robinson, 71, of Pittsburg, KS, died May 29, 2018, at her home. She had been ill for the past three years.

She was born November 3, 1946, at Pittsburg, KS. She was the third of four daughters born to Tony and Hazel (Tridle) Zacarello.

Jolene retired from Pittsburg State University in 2012. While employed at PSU, she was the administrative specialist for the International Programs & Services Office. She made many friends from around the world that she remained in contact with. In 2002 she received an award from the Southern Law Poverty Center in recognition to her contribution to the ongoing fight against hatred and intolerance in America.

She is survived by her fiancé, Jerry Waggoner of Pittsburg, KS; two daughters, Jamie Dickerson (Rodney) of Ennis, TX, and Neely Evans (Phil) of rural Columbus, KS; a son, Reed Robinson (Kala) of Parsons, KS; two sisters, Carol Hollis of Topeka, KS, and Karen Brady of Pittsburg, KS; and a brother, Cory Zacarello of Frontenac, KS.

Also surviving are her seven grandchildren, Blaike, Brady, Levi, and Jaeden all of Ennis, TX. Corbin Hamilton (Georgie) of Denver, CO, Allie Evans and Garrett Evans of rural Columbus.

She was preceded in death by her parents and younger sister Debra Zacarello Emerson, who passed away in 1970.

Memorial Services will be at 6:00 p.m., Monday, June 18, 2018, at the Brenner Mortuary with Obi Nwagwu officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home prior to the service. The family suggests memorials to the W.I.NG.S Organization and/or Catholic Charities of St. Joseph Pastoral Center. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary.

Roy Frazier

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Roy Alvin Frazier, age 60, went to be with the Lord on June 2, 2018 at his home in Galena, Kansas. He was born on July 6, 1957 to Roy Frazier Sr. and Donna Kennedy Frazier Smith in Coffeeville, Kansas.

Roy attended Coffeeville Schools graduating with the class of 1975 from Coffeeville High School.

He married Marilyn Denise Watkins, April 7, 1978. Born to this union was one son Ryan A. Frazier. Included in the family is Tony Ray Breedlove and Shannon Glenn Breedlove (stepsons) and his fourth “son”, Chris Frazier (nephew).

He is survived by his sons Ryan A. Frazier of Baxter Springs, Kansas; Tony Ray Breedlove of Baxter Springs, Kansas, and Shannon Glenn (Christy) Breedlove of Riverton, Kansas. Additional survivors include Mother-In-Law Shirley Watkins of Galena, Sisters Debbie of Newton, KS and Wynona of Independence, KS, and brothers Troy and Tony both of Coffeyville.

Preceding Roy in death are his parents Roy Frazier Sr. and Donna Smith, and his wife Marilyn Frazier.

Family visitation will be Sunday, June 10, 2018 from 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the Derfelt Funeral Home Main Street Galena, Kansas. Funeral and Life Celebration Service will be held Monday, June 11, 2018, 10:30 a.m. at the First Christian Church 919 S. Main St., Galena, Kansas. Pastor officiate: Joseph Michael West, Jr.(nephew). Pallbearers: Chris Frazier, Logan Frazier, Gary Frazier, Jimmy Frazier, Mark Frazier, Christopher Frazier, Joseph West Sr. and Joseph West Jr. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, Galena, Kansas.

In Lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate in memory of Roy to the First Christian Church of Galena, Kansas.

Chris Coots

(From Brenner Mortuary)

It is with great sadness that the family of Christopher Allen Coots announces his passing on June 1, 2018 at the age of 74.

He was born March 23, 1944 to Jeff and Bonnie Coots in Independence, KS. In 1962 he graduated from Chanute High School where he met the love of his life, Brenda with whom he celebrated 54 years of marriage.

Chris went on to graduate from Kansas State College of Pittsburg, later known as Pittsburg State University with a master’s degree in music education.

He began his teaching career in Lakin, KS in 1968 and over the next 33 years taught in Haysville, KS, Pittsburg, KS and Girard, KS. During those years, he combined his incredible love of and talent for music with his passion for teaching to inspire hundreds of students to embrace music and the arts in their own lives.

After retirement, he and Brenda moved down to Afton, OK on Grand Lake, where they thoroughly enjoyed the serene atmosphere of lake life. Saturday afternoons in the fall would find Chris glued to the radio listening to his alma mater’s Gorilla football team or watching his favorite KU Jayhawks basketball team on TV. The past few years he relished in sharing his opinions on politics and the state of our country via his always lively Facebook page.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Jeff and Bonnie Coots, also of Afton, OK and and infant brother, Michael Wayne Coots.

The biggest constant in Chris’s life was his love and devotion to his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Brenda, their three children, Angela Coots, Afton, OK, Shannon (Phil) Reynolds, Olathe, KS and Jason (Meredith) Coots, Jacksonville, FL., his grandchildren Jase and Devyn Schmidt, A.J. and Sam Coots, Maddie Reynolds, and Avery and Aidan Maris. He is also survived by his siblings, Jodi (Mike) Lucke of Osage City, KS, Susan Bailey, of Sierra Vista, AZ and Scott Coots, also of Sierra Vista, AZ, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service to honor his life is being held on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at Brenner Mortuary in Pittsburg, KS. Visitation will begin at 5:30 pm with services to begin at 6:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the PSU Foundation where a scholarship is being created in his name and dedicated to Future Music Educators. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. . Donations can also be made via PayPal at chriscootsfutureeducatorfund@yahoo.comFriends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary.

Mike Degraffenreid

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Michael E Degraffenreid, age 63 of Galena, passed away at 6:09 pm, Friday, June 1, 2018 at Mercy Hospital, Joplin, MO. He was the son of the late James F Degraffenreid and Sarah (McCoy) Degraffenreid Bowman.

He was born at Shepard AFB, Wichita Falls, TX on Oct 1, 1955. He was raised in Southern CA until moving to Kansas in 1969.

Mike held a variety of jobs. The term “jack of all trades” fits him well.

Mike joined the Army in 1973. After the Army, Mike met and married Linda Branson. They had 2 sons, Michael of Southern CA and Donald of Oregon. He later married Bridgette Cash of Southern CA. They had 2 daughters, Amee of Illinois, and Melissa of Texas. He is also survived by 3 sisters, Jody of Oklahoma, Marilyn of Kansas, and Gail of Kansas; 4 brothers, Robert and Eddie of Louisiana, Clint of California and Monty of Nevada; 6 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his Father, Jim, mother, Sarah, brother, Donnie, and sister, Donna.

He was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS for cremation.

Orville Kroenke

(From Carson-Wall Funeral Home)

Orville W. Kroenke, 65, of Iola, Kansas, passed at 3:25 p.m., Thursday May 31, 2018 in the Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

He was born May 13, 1953 in Girard, Kansas, son of Oscar and Ida Mae (Howell) Kroenke. Orville attended Immanuel Lutheran Grade School at rural Hepler, Kansas and graduated from Girard High School. He received a degree in welding from Pittsburg State University.

Orville served in the US Marines during the Vietnam Conflict from 1971 until 1976.

He married Susan Baker on September 14, 1975 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Hepler. She survives of the home.

They lived in Oceanside, California while Orville was in the service before moving to Brazilton, Kansas and then to Iola, Kansas in 1983.

While in Brazilton Orville was a farmer and stockman. After moving to Iola he worked in construction.

He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. After retiring he enjoyed spending time with his family. He enjoyed woodworking, camping, riding horses, and doing projects with his grandchildren.
Survivors, in addition to his wife, Susan, a son, Cpt. Scott Kroenke, US Army, and his wife, April, of Portland, Oregon; his daughter, Amy Grizzard, and her husband, Scott, of Valentines, Virginia; his grandchildren Austin and Jessica Kroenke, Harrison and Emma Claire Grizzard. His brothers Keith Kroenke, and his wife, Vicki, of Bowling Green, Missouri, Robert Kroenke, and his wife, Deanna, of St. Paul, and Edward Kroenke of Big Sandy, Texas; his sisters, Joy Holloway, and her husband, J.D., of Girard, Reta Baker, and her husband, Bill, of Fort Scott, and Janice Baker, and her husband, Charley, of Hepler.

Orville was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Freda Kos, and brother-in-law, Al Kos.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Hepler with Pastor Jay Hobson officiating. Burial will be in Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Hepler.
The family will receive friends from 7:00 until 8:00 p.m., Monday at the Smith-Carson-Wall Funeral Home in Girard where friends may call after 2:00 p.m., Monday.

Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association or Smiles From Jamie Foundation. These may be left at the Immanuel Lutheran Church or Smith-Carson-Wall Funeral Home, 518 W St. John, Box 258, Girard, 66743.

Condolences may be sent to www.wallfuneralservices.com

Ruth Brown

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Ruth Nadine (Mitchell) Brown, 98, of Chicopee, KS, passed away at 1:40 p.m., Thursday, May 31, 2018, at Medicalodges of Girard.

She was born September 15, 1919, at rural Arcadia, KS, the daughter of Jesse Thomas and Chleo (Smith) Mitchell. She attended Girard High School and graduated in 1937. She then graduated from Kansas State Teachers College with a Bachelor’s degree and then a Master’s degree in Education.

On September 5, 1942, she was united in marriage to Marvin A. Brown at Lamar, MO. He preceded her in death on July 18, 2001. Ruth was a school teacher for over 42 years. She taught in Hatch, Lane, Weir, Treece, and Girard Middle School. In 1981 she was honored by receiving the “Master’s Award” for the Girard school district #248.

Membership was held in the Farlington United Methodist Church.

She is survived by her sister, Willadean Bever of Girard, KS; nieces, Susan Friggeri and her husband Robert of Girard, KS, Judy Nelson and her husband Randy of Fort Scott, KS, and Kay Page and her husband Joe of Chicopee, KS; nephew, J.T. Mitchell of Pittsburg, KS, and several great nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, a brother, James Smith Mitchell, a niece Janice Mitchell and nephews, Greg Bever and Rod Bever.

A service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday (June 4) at the Brenner Mortuary with Pastor Dallas Peterson officiating. Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery. The family will receive friends thirty minutes prior to the start of the service on Monday at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials to Farlington United Methodist Church and/or Chicopee Foundation Inc. 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.

Earl Riggin

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Earl DeWayne Riggin, 63, of Pittsburg, passed away at 3:43 p.m., Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at Mercy Hospital, Joplin, MO.

He was born May 18, 1955, at Girard, KS, the son of Harlan Wendell and Betty Frances (Rabone) Riggin. He graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1973 and from Pittsburg State University in 1977 with a bachelor's degree in Computer Programming.

Years before he got his college degree he had established himself as a talented and hard worker on neighboring farms. In 1979 he established a custom harvesting business that serviced customers from Texas to Idaho.

One harvest he met the love of his life, Mary Hill. They were married o December 13, 1986 in Dillon, Montana. They were best friends and partners in all the work of their business, farm and parenting.

Earl became a loving father to Mary's two sons and daughter and later his nephew Erik Starliper, whose mother had passed. Earl and Mary welcomed Erik into their hearts and home.

He was extremely loyal to his customers, friends, and family.

He and his wife were members of the First Church of the Nazarene, Pittsburg.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Daniel and (Kimberly) Foster of Ft. Worth, TX, William and (Bethany) Foster of Pittsburg, Krystine and (Brett) Messer of Pittsburg, nephew Erik Starliper of Pittsburg, Cole and Cade Riggin of the home. His siblings, Steven R. Riggin of St. Louis, Ralph M. and (Alice) Riggin of Eastvale, CA, and Rita M. and (Doug) Swan of Lexington, KY, nine grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Laura Yvonne Riggin and Carol Irene Woodruff.

A memorial service for Earl will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 7, 2018, at the First Church of the Nazarene, Pittsburg, with Reverend Jim Sukraw conducting the service. Private family burial will take place at a later date at the Crocker Cemetery, Pittsburg. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Shriner's Hospital, and/or Vie Medical Clinic, Pittsburg. 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.