Carol Grotheer

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Carol Ann Grotheer, 72, of Pittsburg, passed away at 11:25 p.m., Friday, November 29, 2019, at the Via Christi Village, Pittsburg.

She was born December 15, 1946, at Joplin, MO, the daughter of Al and Twylia (McCallum) Zaccarello.

On April 3, 1966, she was united in marriage to Eugene E. Grotheer at Pittsburg, KS. He preceded her in death on October 3, 1999.

Carol worked as a beautician, was a stay at home mom, cofounder of Patch Fashion, and a florist all before receiving her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1994. She would go on to teach for USD 250 until her retirement in 2012.

Membership was held in the St. John Lutheran Church, Pittsburg, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and various other clubs and organizations.








Carol is survived by four children; Tiffany Peery (Brian), Jason Grotheer (Tammy), Piper Stewart (Joel) and Noah Grotheer (Brandy) all of Pittsburg, brother-in-law, Bob Hosier of Pittsburg, six grandchildren, Scout, River, Stone, Savannah, Indiana and Christian, three nieces and many fur pups.

In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Kathy Zaccarello and one sister-in-law, Lois Hosier.

A memorial graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 4, 2019, at the Highland Park Cemetery, with Pastor Tom Wehrman conducting the service. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery. 

 The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 3, at the Brenner Mortuary. The family suggests memorials be given to the Via Christi Village Assisted Living Social Fund. 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.

Butch Goben

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Edward George "Butch" Goben, 76, passed away Friday, November 29, 2019 at Medicalodge of Pittsburg, KS. He was born October 14, 1943 in Kansas City, MO to E.G. Goben and Maxine (Brassart) Goben.

Butch was preceded in death by his wife Sharon Kay (Grant) Goben and two sisters Gerry Cooper and Peggy Prudlick. 

Butch is survived by his sons, Jeffery (wife Ginger) of Springfield, MO, Eddie (wife Lisa) of Columbus, KS and Shane (wife Deanne) of Tulsa, OK, five grandchildren: Brock Goben, Jessica Goben, Keli (Goben) Benedict (husband Dale), Blake Goben, and Bryce Goben, two greatgrandchildren: Aspen and Rowan Benedict, one sister Linda Roark (husband Billy) of Columbus, KS, his in-laws, and many beloved nieces and nephews. 

A private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Columbus, KS.

Harley McDaniel

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Harley H McDaniel. age 87, passed away at 12:50 am Friday, November 29, 2019, at Mercy Hospital, Joplin, Missouri following an illness.

Harley was born December 9, 1931 in Iola, Kansas to Loyd and Velma (Finch) McDaniel. He had lived in Columbus since 1973, moving from Pleasanton, KS.

He was a veteran of the U S Air Force serving from October 23, 1950 to October 22, 1954 reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was an instructor-Jet Aircraft and Engine Mechanics. He served at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas and Amarillo Air Force Base, Texas. He received the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal.

He earned a BS degree in Agriculture from Kansas State University. He taught Vo-AG in Hope, KS and Pleasanton, KS before becoming a Game Warden with the Kansas Fish and Game Department, a position he held for 22 years before his retirement in 1994.

He was a member of First United Methodist Church, Columbus. He was a lifetime member of Big Brutus serving on the Board of Directors with the Big Brutus Museum where he had received the Miner’s Lamp Award in 2018. He was also awarded the William R Brock Memorial Medal of Merit from the Galena Elks Lodge for his work with the community as a Law Enforcement Officer. He was a member of the NRA. He was former Councilman of the City of Columbus, and was Mayor from 2007-08. Harley regularly attended coffee clubs at McDonalds, Pizza Hut and Daylight Donuts. He was known for sharpening mower blades for friends around town, and was often seen at his grandkids' activities.

Harley was married to Shirley Y McElvain on September 2, 1956 in Mildred, KS. She preceded him in death March 2, 2014. Two brothers, Harold McDaniel and Jerry McDaniel also preceded him in death.

Surviving is one son, Shane McDaniel (Becky), Columbus, KS; one daughter, Kelli Bigando (Brian), Columbus, KS, 7 grandchildren, Aaron Bigando (Marissa), Sarah Bigando, Hunter McDaniel, Colton McDaniel, Taylor McDaniel, Alexis Alumbaugh, and Jacob Thomasson, one great-grandson, Waylon Thomasson; and his close friend, Darline Mitchell, Columbus, KS.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, December 3, 2019 at Derfelt Funeral Home, Columbus, KS. Burial will be in Park Cemetery, Columbus, KS.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Monday, December 2, 2019 at Derfelt Funeral Home, Columbus, KS.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Big Brutus Museum or First United Methodist Church, Columbus in care of the funeral home.

Kayzenn Rowden

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Kayzenn Jacob Rowden of Baxter Springs, Kansas passed from this life on November 21, 2019.

Kayzenn was born on November 21, 2019 in Joplin Missouri to Jacob and Kyandra (Putnam) Rowden.

He is survived by his brother Jakiah Rowden and sister Jakinzley Rowden. He is also survived by his Maternal Grandparents Andy and Danna, maternal great grandparents Sharon Platter Wright. Also, his paternal grandparents Shannon and Leslie Jr. Rowden and grandma Ruth. Also, lots of uncles, aunts and cousins.

No services have been planned at this time. The family has entrusted Derfelt’s Baxter Chapel for cremation. Online condolences can be made at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Glen Mercer

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Glen Eldon Mercer, of Oswego, Kansas, passed away Saturday morning, November 23, 2019.

He was born June 5, 1941 in Columbus, Kansas to the late Carl Eugene and Mary Elizabeth (Dickenson) Mercer. He lived in the area all of his life, and on June 8, 1973, he married Peggy Louise Getmen in Parsons, Kansas. During his life he worked as a heavy equipment operator for his dad at Mercer Farms. Fishing, hunting, and gardening were among his favorite hobbies, though he also enjoyed woodworking, and even painting as of late.

Survivors include his wife Peggy, son Doug (wife Darlene) Mercer of Sherman City, KS, and daughter Judy (husband Doug) of Weir, KS, 7 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren.

Cremation arrangements are being handled through Derfelt Funeral Home of Columbus. The family will host a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Wayne Stark

(From Cheney-Witt Funeral Chapel)

Dr. F. Wayne Stark, 79, a resident of Fort Scott, KS, died Sunday, November 24, 2019, at his home. He was born December 25, 1939, in Fort Scott, KS, the son of Ernest Lloyd Stark and Lillie Elizabeth Davis Stark. He served the Church of the Nazarene in several capacities from 1960-2015.

On March 25, 1963, Wayne married Alice Garner Stark.

Wayne graduated from Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, OK in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in religion. He went on to earn his M.A. in religion from Southern Nazarene University and his Master of Divinity from the Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. Wayne received his Doctorate of Divinity from the Nazarene Theological Seminary on June 2, 2019.

Wayne began his service to the Church of the Nazarene in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma at the Nazarene Gospel Mission as Head Pastor from 1960-1962. Wayne then served as Pastor at the Church of the Nazarene in Noble, Oklahoma until 1966. He spent the next ten years serving at Central Church of the Nazarene in downtown Oklahoma City. 

In 1976, Wayne accepted the call to the Nazarene Indian Bible College in Albuquerque, New Mexico. During his time in Albuquerque, Wayne served as both Pastor and professor before being appointed by the General Superintendent as President of the College until 1983. 

Following a one year sabbatical, Wayne moved his family to Pleasanton, Kansas where he would serve as Pastor of the Pleasanton Church of the Nazarene until 1996. At that time, Wayne felt a calling to once again go back and serve the inner city of Oklahoma City. He took an unpaid position as pastor at First Indian Church of the Nazarene in Oklahoma City, OK. In addition, he served as Site Director of Love Link Ministries until his resignation in 2008. Wayne retired in 2015 after serving the Nazarene denomination for 55 years.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Alice Garner Stark; his brother Eddie Stark and wife Margaret; his sisters Naoma Hemphill and husband Bob, and Marilyn Rogers; his sons Kevin and wife Cristin Stark, and Stephen Stark; his daughters Evangeline and husband Matt Korinke, and Michelle Seciwa; his grandchildren Christian Tavernaro and wife Cristin, Johnathan Stark and wife Sarah, Wyatt Stark, Wes Seciwa, Dawson, Brody and Lila Korinke. 

Wayne was preceded in death by his grandparents M. Grant and Leota Stark and Ernest Eddie “Edd” and Haskell Hayse Davis; and parents Ernest and Lillie Stark.

Rev. Virgil Peck will conduct funeral services at 10:30 AM Wednesday, November 27th, at the Fort Scott Church of the Nazarene. Burial will follow in the Prescott Cemetery, Prescott, KS. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 7:30 PM Tuesday at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to either Pathways or AgGrandize Global and may be left in care of the website Grandizeglobal.com or Cheney Witt Chapel, P.O. Box 347, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Glen Pearson

(From Cheney-Witt Funeral Chapel)

Glen Alexander Pearson, Jr., 3-day-old son of Glen Pearson, Sr., and Shelby Brown, of Iola, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly, Saturday, November 23, 2019, at the Allen County Hospital Emergency Room in Iola, Kansas. He was born November 20, 2019, at Pittsburg, Kansas.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by a sister, Brailynne and his grandparents and great-grandparents.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Monday, December 2nd at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Private burial will take place Tuesday at the Highland Cemetery in Iola, Kansas.

Memorials are suggested to the Glen Pearson, Jr. Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

A. W. Cates

(From Carson-Wall Funeral Home)

Adolphus W. (A.W.) Cares Jr. 88, of Parsons, died at 8:50 P.M., Friday, November 22, 2019 at his home. He had been in failing health for the past two months.

He was born on May 18, 1931, to Adolphus W. Cares, Sr. and Lottie W. Spurgeon Cares at their home in rural Parsons. Both parents are deceased. A.W. grew up on a farm and attended Fairview Grade School and graduated from Parsons High School in 1949.

A.W. and Peggy J. Stringer were married on December 19, 1948, at her parent’s home in Parsons. They have two daughters, Terry Ashmore of Parsons and Becky Cornell of Shawnee, three grandchildren: Tammy Ashmore, Max Cornell (Molly Roberts), and Sarah Grindel (Neil), six great grandchildren and several cousins.

A.W. started farming when he was 14 and continued for several years while also working heavy construction. In 1955 he went to work for National P.A.C.O. of Denver, Colorado as a trainee underwriter in Property and Casualty insurance and after two years was transferred to the claims department and worked as an adjuster for property and casualty claims. In 1961 he started working for Kansas Claims Service in Parsons, KS.

In 1967 A.W. began working for Shelter Insurance as a casualty adjuster and was later promoted to supervisor. In 1976 he was promoted to Branch Claims Manager in Lincoln, NE and later transferred to Topeka, Kansas. A.W. continued working for Shelter Insurance as a Branch Claims Manager until he retired in 1996. At that time, He and Peggy moved back to Parsons to be close to their children and grandchildren. Peggy survives of the home.

A.W. and Peggy were longtime members of the First Baptist Church in Parsons. A.W. was also a longtime member of the Elks, receiving his 50-year pin in 2011.

He enjoyed fishing and hunting and had a large garden in his younger years. When he retired A.W. began golfing and was an avid golfer for 15 years and enjoyed the many golf courses in the southeast Kansas area.

He and Peggy were married on December 19, 1948, while still in high school and have enjoyed many happy years together. They enjoyed traveling and had visited 49 of the fifty states, Northern Mexico, and all of the provinces of Canada.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 P.M. Tuesday, November 26, 2019 at the Carson-Wall Funeral Home with Pastor Max Cornell officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7:00 until 8:00 Monday evening at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the Salvation Army an may be left at or mailed to the funeral home, P.O. Box 942, Parsons, KS 67357. Online condolences may be left at www.wallfuneralservices.com.

Vera Aronhalt

(From Carson-Wall Funeral Home)

Vera Aronhalt, 97, of Glen Carbon, IL, formerly of Parsons, died at 7:15 A.M. Sunday, November 24, 2019 at the Meridian Village at Glen Carbon.

Among survivors are two daughters, Pat Stephenson, of Maryville, IL and Donna McDonough of Bellevue, NE.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, December 3, 2019 at the Carson-Wall Funeral Home with Pat McReynolds officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Lawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 Tuesday. Memorials are suggested to the Parsons Area Community Foundation and may be left at or mailed to the funeral home, P.O. Box 942, Parsons, KS 67357. Online condolences may be left at www.wallfuneralservices.com.

Elsie Staton

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Elsie Lucille Staton, 95, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away at 2:45 AM, Friday, November 22, 2019, at Medicalodge of Frontenac.

She was born May 4, 1924, at Pleasanton, KS, to John Q. and Rosa (Rittenhouse) Coppage.

On June 21, 1941, she was united in marriage to Johnnie L. Staton at Nevada, MO. He preceded her in death on November 8, 2003.

Elsie was a homemaker. She enjoyed quilting, crossword puzzles, bowling leagues, K-State extension unit, and doll club.

Membership was held in First Christian Church of Pittsburg, Rob Morris 74, Order of the Eastern Star, and Azrim Temple #81, Daughters of the Nile.

She is survived by two daughters, Shirley Bockelman and her husband Charles of Branson West, MO, and Diane Loy of Nixa, MO; a son, John L. Staton and Denise Grasso of Pittsburg, KS; and four grandchildren, Tiffiny Stringer and her husband Bryan, Kirk Bockelman and his wife Sara, Melissa Loy, Marcee Loy, and five great grandchildren, Emma Kate Bockelman, Charlie Bockelman, Jack Bockelman, Colby Seiter, and Resse Stringer.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a sister, Dorothy Stoughton, and three brothers, Paul Coppage, Fred Coppage, and Robert Coppage.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, November 27, 2019, at the Fort Scott National Cemetery with Reverend Pat Nixon officiating. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the funeral home. The family suggests memorials be given to the Family Resource Center-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.

Dennis Bowin

(From Carson-Wall Funeral Home)

Dennis A. Bowin, 73, went to be with his Lord on November 21, 2019 at St. Luke’s Hospice in Kansas City, Missouri.

Dennis was born February 18, 1946 the only child of Ephner and Ruth (Means) Bowin in Girard, Kansas. He spent his first three years in Weir, Kansas then moved to Parsons, Kansas in 1949 where his father had accepted a teaching position.

Dennis attended Parsons Schools graduating from Parsons High School in 1964. He then graduated from Labette Community College in 1966. Dennis enlisted in the Navy, October 20, 1966 and served two tours in Vietnam on board the USS Coral Sea. 

Following his discharge in 1970, he began work for the Rock Island Railroad. He continued to work for the railroad when the Southern Pacific purchased the Rock Island and later when the Union Pacific bought the Southern Pacific before retiring after 35 years of service in the Water Service Department.

Dennis married Kay Blackburn in Las Vegas, Nevada on June 14, 1971. After 27 years, they divorced but later remarried.

Dennis was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church in Parsons, Kansas. He attended Gashland Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Kansas City. Dennis was a member of Brown-Bishop VFW Post 704 in Parsons.

Dennis enjoyed fishing, military and civil war history, working in the Prairie Flats shop and gardening.

He is survived by his wife, Kay and two children. Robin Bowin and husband Phil Gordon, Wesley Bowin and companion Angela Gautieri, his faithful cat Riley Gene, a cousin that he regarded as a brother, Jim Huff (Colleen), one aunt, Beatrice Rippel, Weir, Kansas and numerous cousins. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Tuesday, at the Carson-Wall Funeral Home in Parsons, with Darrell Barr officiating. Burial will follow in Hosey Hill Cemetery at Weir, with military honors given by the Brown-Bishop Post # 704, Veterans of Foreign Wars of Parsons.

The family will receive friends from 10 a.m., Tuesday until the service hour. Friends may also call at the funeral home on Monday to sign the register.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made to Veteran’s Community Project, Kansas City which builds tiny homes for homeless veterans or KC Pet Project a pet rescue organization. They may be left or mailed to the funeral home at Box 942, Parsons, KS 67357. Online messages may be left at www.wallfuneralservices.com.

Evelyn Shannon

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Evelyn Sue Shannon, 66, of Oswego, KS passed from this life on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at Freeman Hospital, Joplin, MO.

Evelyn was born May 2, 1953 in Oswego, KS to Edward Ray Shannon and Elizabeth Nell (Barmore)Morris. Evelyn was a lifetime Oswego resident. Evelyn worked for many years at Ruskin’s Manufacturing. She didn’t know anything else besides work, however she did love spending time with her family and especially her grandchildren. Evelyn attend the Assembly of God Church in Oswego.

Evelyn is preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by one son, J.D. Walker and wife Kristen of Oswego, KS; one daughter, Ronda Teal and husband Chad of Oswego, KS; Companion, Tommie Lentz of the home; eight siblings, Marilyn Burns and husband John of Tatum, N.M., John Shannon and wife Cindy of Oologah, OK, Carol McKinney of Oswego, KS, Leon Shannon and wife Debbie of McCune, KS, Janet Scott of Independence, KS, Ellen Ghering and husband Steve of Oswego, KS, Nancy Beck and husband Jake of Chetopa, KS, and Marjorie Reynolds of Independence, KS; seven grandchildren, Bailey Dickerson and husband Andy of Chetopa, KS, Leighton Smith of Oswego, KS, Katelynn Dean and husband Nate of Oswego, KS, Lakyn Teal and Companion Jacob Daniels of Oswego, KS, Lizzie Teal of Oswego, KS, Jacob Walker of Oswego, KS, and Lance Teal of Oswego, KS; four great grandchildren, Corbyn Dickerson, Sawyer Dickerson, Ridge Dickerson, and Kolson Daniels; also many loved nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 26, 2019 at the Assembly of God Church, Oswego, KS. Pastor Steve McBrien will officiate. Burial will follow in the Oswego Cemetery. Family will receive friends Monday, November 25, 2019 from 6:00-8:00 p.m., at the Assembly of God Church, Oswego, KS. Pallbearers for the service are; Leighton Smith, Jacob Walker, Lance Teal, Andy Dickerson, Nate Dean, and Jacob Daniels. Evelyn was a very giving person. 

The family asks that memorial donations be made to the charity of your choice in her memory. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Marcella Timmins

(From Cheney-Witt Funeral Chapel)

Marcella R. Timmins, age 89, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Thursday, November 21, 2019, at the Medicalodge of Frontenac, Kansas.

She was born November 23, 1929, in Anamoose, North Dakota, the daughter of William C. Roufs and Josephine Hanenburg Roufs. Marcella graduated from the Ft. Scott High School with the Class of 1948. 

She married George Timmins on September 3, 1949 in Seattle, Washington. Marcella had worked as an audit examiner for the Western Insurance Company for thirty-eight years. She also assisted her husband, George, with their jewelry business.

Survivors include four nephews and three nieces and several great-nieces and great-nephews. Her husband, George, preceded her in death on October 29, 2006. She was also preceded in death by her parents and four brothers, Ralph, Harold, Clifford and Orville Roufs.

At Marcella’s request, a simple graveside service will be held at 11:30 A.M. Monday, November 25th at the Evergreen Cemetery. A time of visitation will be prior to the service on Monday from 10:30 to 11:15 A.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Paws & Claws and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Ronald Fox

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Ronald Joseph Fox of Baxter Springs, KS passed from this life and entered into eternal rest on November 8, 2019 at Freeman Hospital, Joplin, MO.

Ronnie was born to the late Clifford and Shirley (Leatherman) Fox on April 18, 1963 in Denver, Colorado. Ronnie worked as a mechanic most of his life in Colorado until he was disabled in 2010, then moved to Baxter Springs.

He is preceded in death by one sister, Deborah Fox in 1969; grandparents, Sam and Frieda Leatherman and Dwane and Mary Fox.

He is survived by one daughter, Kimberly Brown of Denver, CO; son, Ronald Fox of Denver, CO; two grandchildren; one sister, Rhonda Fox of Denver, CO; two brothers, Randy Fox of Gravette, AR, and Richard Fox of Afton, OK; along with a host of family and friends. 

There is no service planned at this time.

Ronald Evans

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Ronald G. Evans 78, of Pittsburg, KS died 1:40pm Monday November 18, 2019 at the Medicalodge Nursing Home in Frontenac, KS following an illness.

Ronald was born July 26, 1941 in Pittsburg, KS the son of Cleon D. and Glenda L. (Rinehart) Evans. Ronald was lifelong resident of Pittsburg and graduate of College High in Pittsburg, KS. Ronald worked as a Custodian all his life and retired from the State of Kansas in 1994. Ronald was of the Methodist Faith and in his free time enjoyed yard work and painting.

Survivors include his brother Jack Evans of Pittsburg, KS.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside Services will be 10:00 am Monday November 25, 2019 at the Highland Park Cemetery in Pittsburg, KS with Pastor Daryl Gaddy officiating. 

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 Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com.

Betty Craig

(From Parker Mortuary)

Betty Jean West-Craig, age 94, Columbus, Kansas, formerly of Joplin, passed away on Saturday, November 16, 2019 at Mercy of Joplin.

Betty was born January 2, 1925 in Kansas City, Missouri, daughter of the late George W. Howe and Zona Cooper Howe. She married Herbert C. West on December 27, 1946 in Kansas City, and they had three sons, Douglas, Richard, and Michael. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a member of Center Christian Church, Columbus, Kansas.

In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert C. West, who passed away on June 25, 2001. She was then preceded in death by her husband, Ivan C. Craig, who passed away on April 8, 2016. She was also preceded in death by a son, Michael J. West, a grandson, Mark West, and a brother, George W. Howe, Jr.

Survivors include her sons, Douglas L. West and wife Barbara of Columbus, Kansas, and Richard D. West and wife Vivian of Richmond, Kansas; four grandchildren, Matthew Lee West (Kari) of Girard, Kansas, V. DiAnne Miller (Kenneth) of DeSoto, Kansas, James C. West (Amanda) of Baldwin City, Kansas, and Travis D. West (Racheal) of Wellsville, Kansas; nine great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be Friday, November 22, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. in Parker Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Tom Goettel officiating.
Burial will be with her husband, Herbert West, and son, Michael West, in the National Cemetery, Fort Scott, Kansas at 1:30 p.m. Friday, with Matthew West, James West, Travis West, Kenneth Miller, and Tom Padilla serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends at Parker Mortuary on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Rheta Peters

(From Carson-Wall Funeral Home)

Rheta L. Peters, 85, of St. Paul, and a former resident of Emporia, Erie, and Pittsburg, passed away at 8 p.m., Saturday, November 16, 2019 at the Prairie Mission Retirement Village of St. Paul.

She was born on January 21, 1934 at Toronto, Kansas to William and Susan (Smith) Mc Junkin. She grew up at Toronto and attended schools there. Rheta then moved to Emporia where she worked as a Certified Medical Aide at the Holiday Resort. She then moved to Erie in 2007 and to Pittsburg in 2011.

Rheta attended the Countryside Christian Church Pittsburg. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and sewing.

She and Lloyd Peters were married in 2007. He survives of Prairie Mission Retirement Village of St. Paul.

In addition to her husband she is survived by three step-sons, Gratz Peters, and his wife, Brenda of Erie; Gary Peters, and his wife, Suzanne of Erie, and Greg Peters of Pittsburg; eight step-grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one sister, Lyla McCoy Of Emporia; and many niece and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers, Eldon, LaMoyne, Bill and Laverne McJunkin; and four sisters, Myrtle Wilson, Marie Dodge, Verna Bogle, and Ila Wilson.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, November 20, 2019 at the Maplewood/Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Emporia with Rusty Newman officiating. Burial will follow. The family will receive friends at the Pierce-Carson-Wall Funeral Home in Erie from 7 to 8 Tuesday evening. Memorials are suggested New Hope Services of Pittsburg and these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home P.O. Box 182, 113 S. Main St., Erie, KS 66733. Online condolences may www.wallfuneralservices.com.

Judy Michael

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Judy Michael, 74, of Pittsburg, passed away at 2:52 p.m., Saturday, November 16, 2019, at her residence.

She was born February 6, 1945, in Concordia, KS, the daughter of Frank and Fern (Straight) Clark.

On August 29, 1964, she was united in marriage to Bob W. Michael. He survives of the home.

Mrs. Michael worked for the City National Bank and Bank IV in Pittsburg before her retirement.

Membership was held in the Countryside Christian Church.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by one son, Kyle Michael of Pittsburg, her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, one son, Kevin Michael and two brothers, John and Jerry Clark.

A graveside service for Mrs. Michael is set for 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at the Mt. Olive Cemetery, Pittsburg. Friends are requested to meet at the cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, at the Brenner Mortuary. The family suggests memorials to Angels Among Us. 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.

Leonard Cain

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Leonard Berry Cain, 96, of Columbus, KS, gained his wings on November 13th, 2019, at his home.

Leonard was born October 14, 1923. He was born in Stippville, KS to Charles and Lydia Cain. Leonard had 2 brothers and 2 sisters. At the age of 19 he was drafted, he served in the U.S. Army Tank Corps from 1943 -1945. He was stationed through Europe and into Germany. During his time in the war he began as a driver and ended as a tank commander. Leonard was awarded battle stars, Unit Citation, Croix de Guerr, and a good conduct medal.

Once he returned from the war he met his wife, Dolores May Spriggs. They were married on December 24, 1946. Leonard and Dolores had one child, Berry Jack Cain.

He was employed for Scovall Plumping after returning from the war and later worked for Columbus High School, as Head of Maintenance, until he retired. Leonard’s talents were many, he was skilled at carpentry, electrical, and pretty much any work with his hands. He enjoyed sharing his skills with his son and grandsons. In his younger years, he enjoyed, camping, riding motorcycles, and spending time with his family. As the years past Leonard spent a lot of his time with grandchildren and later his great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sisters, Loving wife Delores, and Great Grandchild Lillian Cain.

He is survived by his son, 3 grandsons, and 10 great grandchildren. Son, Berry Cain and his wife Cheryl, Grandson; Jake Cain and his wife Jessi, Grandson; Jon Cain and his wife Amanda, Grandson; Shane Webb and his wife Marie, 10 Great Grandchildren; Piper Cain, Jaxon Cain, Jayden Cain, Hanna Cain, Annalea Cain, Elizabeth Cain, Elijah Cain, Matthew Webb, Lexie Webb, and Shalynne Webb.

Leonard was loved by all and will missed by so many.

Funeral Services will be at 11 am Saturday, November 16, 2019 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 611 S. East Ave Columbus, Kansas with Pastor Gary Yurk officiating. Family will receive friends at 10 am prior to the service at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Columbus Park Cemetery. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Columbus.

Georgia Hawkins

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Georgia Estelle (Marsh) Hawkins, 93, of Pittsburg, passed away Sunday, November 10, 2019 at Via Christi Hospital.

She was born March 22, 1926 at Naylor, Missouri, the daughter of Lula and William Marsh. She attended schools in Naylor and Doniphan.

On February 8, 1946, she was united in marriage to Ronald Eugene Hawkins at Corning, Arkansas. They lived in Marlow, Oklahoma until moving to Pittsburg in 1959. He preceded her in death on November 29, 1974.

Mrs. Hawkins worked in the travel industry serving as an agent for several companies. She helped many friends who came to count on her to get them to their destinations worldwide.

Membership was held in the Church of Christ.

Survivors include two sons, Daryl Eugene Hawkins of Abilene, Kansas and Jeffery Lynn Hawkins and his wife, Paula of Baytown, Texas; grandchildren, Jenny, Erin and Leigh Anne and great-grandchildren, Kasen, Sloane, and Margot. Many nieces and nephews survive her.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, brothers James E. Marsh and William C. Marsh, and sisters Velma I. Marsh, Myrtle Smith, Helen Qualls, and Pearl Strickland.

The family would like to thank the staff at Medicalodge South and Ascension Via Christi Hospital for all of their assistance in taking care of Georgia.

A visitation will be held from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Saturday, November 16, 2019 at the Brenner Mortuary. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 18, 2019 at the New Hope Cemetery in Oxly, Missouri with Pastor Ron Daughhetee officiating. The family requests no flowers.

Chip Iori

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Gary Gene “Chip” Iori, II, 37, of Greenwood, Missouri, formerly of Pittsburg, passed away Sunday morning, November 10, 2019 in Kansas City, Missouri.

He was born September 28, 1982 at Wichita, Kansas, the son of Gary Gene and Martha (Redd) Iori. He attended school at St. Mary’s, Colgan and Pittsburg High School and later attended Pittsburg State University.

Chip was working for First Call Funeral Directors in Kansas City, Missouri.

Membership was held in Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

Survivors include his mother, Martha (Iori) Galvin and his step-father, Mike of Pittsburg; a sister, Melissa Cook and her husband, Jordan of Franklin; two nephews, Cash Rosenblad and Fenway Cook; and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 16). at the Brenner Mortuary. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 P.M, Saturday (Nov. 16) in the basement of the Watco Building, located at 315 W. Third St. Private burial be in the Crocker Cemetery. The family suggests memorials be given to SEK Humane Society. 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.

Leona Maier

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Leona I. Maier, 91, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away at 12:03 p.m., Sunday, November 10, 2019.

She was born August 30, 1928, at Chicago, IL, the daughter of Anthony and Eloise Euske.

On May 3, 1958, she was united in marriage to Robert G. "Bob" Maier at Chicago, IL. Together they owned and operated Bob's Grill in Pittsburg. Bob passed away on October 6, 2004.

Membership was held in Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Pittsburg and the Pittsburg YMCA.

Mrs. Maier is survived by one daughter, Deborah Milleman and her husband, Steve of Bel Aire, KS, sister-in-law, Lillian Euske of Darien, IL, two grandchildren, Kali Greger and her husband, Austin of Wichita, KS, and Ashley Lee and her husband, Jeremy of Yukon, OK, three great grandsons, Blake, Gavin, and Henry Greger all of Wichita, KS, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents, six brothers and two sisters.

A graveside service for Mrs. Maier is set for 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 15, 2019, at the Highland Park Cemetery, Pittsburg, with Father Jerome Spexarth, conducting the service. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after 11:00 a.m., Thursday, to sign the register book. The family suggests memorials to the Kindred Hospice, Wichita, KS. 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 the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Eugene Grimes

(From Cheney-Witt Funeral Chapel)

Eugene Edward Grimes, age 87, resident of Ft. Scott, KS, died Monday, November 11, 2019, at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin, MO. He was born January 28, 1932, in rural Ft. Scott, the son of Jesse Bowman Grimes and Grace Blanch Morgan Grimes. He served in the United States Army from 1952 to 1954 and contributed to construction of the Korean Demilitarized Zone. Gene graduated from FSCC with an associate degree in printing.

He married Norma Elder on May 26, 1957, in Redfield, KS. Gene worked for Norvell, Buell Cabinet Company, and Ward-Kraft Inc. until his retirement in 1998. He then continued to work part time until 2001 for a total of 26 years. He was a member of Grace Baptist Tabernacle since 1958, serving as a deacon for 35 years and as assistant treasurer for 24 years. He was a past member of V.F.W. Post #1165, and the Old Forters Camping Club.

Survivors include his wife Norma of the home; a daughter, Marlene Willis and husband Mike, Pittsburg, KS; 2 grandchildren, Mackenzie and Duncan Willis; and several nieces and nephews. Gene was preceded in death by 5 brothers, Melvin, Don, Glen, Claude, and Kenneth Grimes; 3 sisters, Louise Baker, Thelma Reel, and Opal McKay; and his parents.

Rev. Paul Rooks will conduct funeral services at 10:00 AM Thursday, November 14th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the U. S. National Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the Olson Frary Burkhart Post #1165 V.F.W. Memorials are suggested to either the American Cancer Society or the American Parkinson Disease Association and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Terri Tessman

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Terri Earleen Tessman of Baxter Springs, Kansas passed from this life Monday November 11, 2019 at her home, she was 63.

Terri was born in Joplin, Missouri on October 7, 1956 to Earl and Opal Marie (Adams) Berry. She graduated from high school and got her LPN license. Terri was a homemaker and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star out of Baxter Springs, the Rainbows and was a member of the Tennessee Prairie Church in Baxter Springs. She loved gardening, flowers, cooking and spending time with her family.

She married John A. Tessman JR. on March 28, 1975 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he survives of the home.

Terri is also survived by two sons John A. Tessman III of the home, Jason Earl Tessman of Tuscan, Arizona, one daughter Tera L. Tessman Gooden and husband Andy of Wyandotte, Oklahoma. She is also survived by two brothers Randy Berry of Baxter Springs, Kansas, Ronald Berry of Baxter Springs, Kansas, two sisters Sherrial Smith of Riverton, Kansas, and Karen Ford of Welch, Oklahoma. She is also survived by nine grandchildren.

Terri is preceded in death by her parents and a sister Kristy McCarter.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday November 15, 2019 at Tennessee Prairie Church, with Pastor David Robinson officiating. A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. before the service at the church.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Freeman Cancer Institute in memory of Terri.

The family has entrusted Derfelt’s Baxter Chapel for cremation and service arrangements. Online condolence can be made at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Jim DeLano

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

James “Jim” Arthur DeLano of Baxter Springs, Kansas previously from Miami, Oklahoma passed from this life on November 5, 2019 at his home, he was 72.

Jim was born on April 22, 1947 to James Albert and Phyllis Louise (Myers) DeLano in Wichita, Kansas. He graduated from Wichita East High School. He was a Grocery Store Manager for Dillion’s, Sav-Mor, and Lyle’s IGA. He also worked for the Baxter Springs Police Department as a dispatcher. Jim served his country in the United States Navy from 1965-1969. Jim enjoyed collecting all types of sports memorabilia.

Jim married Leslie (McKinzie) DeLano in Baxter Springs, Kansas, she preceded him in death on
June 10, 2019.

Jim is survived by two sons Scott DeLano and wife Tracie of Miami, Oklahoma, Joey
Sparks and wife Allison of Baxter Springs, Kansas; three daughters Kelly Orta and
husband Sean of Bartlesville, Stacy DeLano and husband Todd of Stillwater, and Stacy
Sparks of Baxter Springs; one brother-in-law and friend Keith McKinzie and wife Karen;
and one sister Debra Simon. He is also, survived by six grandchildren and one great
grandchild.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his brother Craig DeLano.

No services are scheduled at this time. Jim’s family has entrusted Derfelt’s Baxter
Chapel for cremation. Online condolences can be made at
www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Millie Ryan

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Millie Darlene Ryan, 73 of Arma, KS died at 3:20 am, November 8, 2019 at the Arma Care Center.

She was born February 6, 1946 in Wichita, KS the daughter of Kenneth and Byrdie (Castlebury) Ryan.

She was a homemaker and a longtime resident of Mulberry.
Survivors include a sister Sheila Sprankle and husband Tom of Wichita, two brothers: Kenneth Ryan and wife Mildred of Mulberry, KS, Kim Ryan and wife Patricia of Mulberry; a brother-in-law Dennis Massions of Nevada, MO along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister Mary Massions.

Funeral services will be 2:pm Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home with Duane Elmore officiating. Burial will follow in the Rosebank Cemetery. 

Family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1pm until service time on Tuesday. Memorials may be left to the American Cancer Society and/or the American Diabetes Association. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. 

Services by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.

Sharry Rains

(From Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home)

Sharon “Sharry” Ann (Martin) Rains, 72, of Fort Scott, passed away peacefully at her home, Thursday morning, November 7, 2019. She was born on July 29, 1947, in Cherokee, Oklahoma to Loren Ralph and Anna Hayes Martin.

Sharry moved to a farm outside of Fort Scott in 1960 and graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1965. 

 She was married to Ronald Lee Rains on April 16, 1967, in Chanute, Kansas by Ron’s father, Pastor Edgar Rains. Together they had two children, Cecilia Jill Rains Evans and Shannon Lee Rains.

Sharry worked as a Bookkeeper at Western Insurance, Midwestern Distribution, Hammer Insurance, Ruddick’s Inc., and My1Stop. She retired from bookkeeping in 2012 but then held a part-time job at Gene’s IGA until 2015. Sharry was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2010 and bravely fought four bouts of it. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Fort Scott and was a faithful servant to our Lord and a fervent prayer warrior.

Sharry was extremely proud of her kids and grandkids and loved to attend as many of their events as she could. She was their biggest cheerleader, believed in and prayed for them always, and loved them with all her heart. Sharry had the sweetest spirit and was the most generous person to all she knew. She was deeply loved by her husband, children, and grandkids and will be greatly missed by them all. 

Survivors include her husband, Ron, of the home; a daughter, Jill Evans and husband Chris, Louisburg, KS; a son, Shannon Rains, Fort Scott; four grandchildren, Bethany Phillips, Jordan Phillips, Kylie Rains, and Robert Rains; a brother, Loren L. Martin and wife Patty, Girard, KS; a sister, Maryn K. Wiggins, Pittsburg, KS; and several nieces and nephews. 

 Sharry was preceded in death by her parents, Loren Martin and Anna Wade; her father-in-law, Edgar Rains, and mother-in-law, Eva Rains; and by her stepmother, Maxine Martin.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 12, 2019, at the First United Methodist Church with burial to follow in the Fort Scott National Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday, November 11, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home in Fort Scott. 

The family suggests memorial contributions to the First United Methodist Church of Fort Scott. Contributions may be left in the care of, the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall St., P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.

Mary Breiner

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Mary Ann Breiner, 52 of Pittsburg, KS died Wednesday November 6, 2019 at her home following a sudden illness.

She was born in Girard, KS the daughter of Frank Henry and Wilma Mae (Scott) Breiner.

On April 20, 2008 she was united in marriage to Christopher Boyd Burke in Pittsburg; he survives of the home.

Mary was a homemaker.

Additional survivors include a daughter Samantha Applegate of Pittsburg; siblings Roger & Terry Chance both of Frontenac, KS, Francis Seaman of Pittsburg & Dixie Hite both of Pittsburg, Lori Sullivan of Frontenac and Anita Hillebert of Eudora, KS; along with an grandchild Raedyn Applegate.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister Brenda Nankivell.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Memorials may be left to a college fund for her granddaughter, these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home.

Bob Bruce

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Robert Wren “Bob” Bruce, 75, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away at 8:20 AM, Thursday, November 7, 2019, at his residence.

He was born November 7, 1944, at Burlington, KS, to Rolland Wren and Sophia Catherine (Carter) Bruce. Bob attended schools in Pittsburg and Uniontown and graduated from College High School in 1962.

In 1974 he was united in marriage to Suzanne Stewart. They later divorced. On March 7, 2009, he was united in marriage to Mary Rogers at Pittsburg, KS. She survives at the home.

Bob worked for the Pittsburg Police Department for 25 years retiring as a sergeant in 1992. He also worked as a bus driver for USD #250, security officer for Via Christi, and a driver for PTI.

Membership was held in South Broadway Baptist Church where he served in many capacities. He was also a member of the Kansas Peace Officers Association, Mirza Shrine, Marvin A. Armstrong Masonic Lodge #187, and a former member of the Eastern Star.

In addition to his wife Mary, he is survived by two daughters, Amy Smith and her husband Niel of Smithsburg, MD, and Julie Akins, and her husband Rusty of Pittsburg, KS; a son, Greg Bruce and his wife Kari of Andover, KS; a step-son, Greg Rogers and his wife Sue Lynn of Spokane, WA; a step-daughter, Tonia Rogers and Tiffany of Moore, OK; a brother-in-law, Art Moore of Colorado Springs, CO; and 10 grandchildren, Drew Smith, Adam Smith, Tucker Akins, Tanner Akins, Ryan Bruce, Alex Bruce, Olivia Bruce, Gracie Rogers, Travis Rogers, and Spencer Rogers.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a sister Louisa Moore.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 AM, Monday, November 11, 2019, at the South Broadway Baptist Church with Reverend Dan Moss officiating. Burial will follow in the Highland Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday, November 10, 2019, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Brenner Mortuary. The family suggests memorials be given to the Mirza Shrine Transportation Fund and/or South Broadway Baptist 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.

Roberta Bentley

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Roberta Ann (Coons) Bentley, age 82, was born June 19, 1937 in Mecca, CA to Eldo Jess Coons and Ruby Lloyd (Allison) Coons. She passed away peacefully on November 6, 2019 at 7:43 am at her home with her family by her side.

A celebration of life will be held November 17, 2019 from 3 – 5 pm at the Mae Lesley Building in Chetopa. The family suggests contributions to Harry Hines Memorial Hospice, 3106 W Main Street, Parsons, KS 67357 or Oswego Assembly of God, P O Box 251, Oswego, KS 67356.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Gary L. Bentley. There were united in marriage July 23, 1954. She was also preceded in death by four brothers, Eldo Jr (Bud), Cecil, and Charles, twin brother Robert and one sister Mildred Brown.

Survivors include five children, Deryl (Stephanie) Bentley, Jim (Diane) Bentley, and Debra (Robert) Williamson, all of Oswego, Chuck Bentley, Galena, and Richard Bentley, Oklahoma City, OK; 8 grandchildren, Ben (Audra) Cochran, Altamont, Jarrod (Dorien) Bentley, Oklahoma City, OK, Brandon (Kori) Bentley, Chetopa, Derek (Heather) Bentley, Carrollton, TX, Lacy (Packard) Whitesell, Oswego, Danny (Destinie) Bentley, Chanute, KS, Britney (Jesse) Cook, Galena, Briana (Dillon) Cook, Galena, Dillon Williamson, Active Army Military Police Soldier, and 9 great-grandchildren, Marilyn Bentley, Tulsa, and sister-in-law, Corkie Bentley, Cucamongo ,CA.

Roberta was baptized on July 28, 2019. She was a local business woman in Chetopa for many years as owner of 3-D Magnetic Signs, an owner of a wholesale RV supply company, co-owner of Bentley RV Repair with her husband, Gary, and worked alongside her parents and brothers for many years in the recreational vehicle business. Her passion was spending time with her family and her greatest joy came from when her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were with her. She enjoyed cooking, baking, and decorating for the holidays. She was a kid at heart.

A special thank you to Harry Hines Hospice staff, Lacy Whitesell, Carol James, Lawanda Habig, and Debi Nading for assisting the family in providing living care for her.

Pauline Sullivan

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Yutha “Pauline” Sullivan, age 85 of Columbus, passed away at 12:20 PM on Tuesday, November 5, 2019 in Neosho, MO.

Yutha was born on November 2, 1934 in Cherokee County, KS, the youngest of John L. Sullivan and Beatrice (Rowton) Sullivan’s twelve children, and the self-proclaimed “Daddy’s Girl”. She graduated from Columbus High School, and had lived in the Columbus area all of her life. 

She worked for the city of Columbus for an impressive 40 years from 1959-1999, eventually attaining the position of Assistant City Clerk. She enjoyed fishing, helping others, and caring for her dogs. She participated in a Women’s Bowling League with other women from Columbus, and they competed in several state tournaments in the 1960’s and 1970’s. She was a believer and a member of the Baptist Faith, being baptized into the church on August 30, 1998.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and 11 brothers and sisters.

She is survived by her two four-legged girls; Mariah and Peaches; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Mrs. Sullivan has been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home for private burial at Park Cemetery of Columbus. 

The public is invited to a Celebration of Life that will take place on Saturday, November 9, 2019 from 2-3:00 PM at Derfelt Funeral Home of Columbus. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Frances Pruitt

(From Cheney-Witt Funeral Chapel)

Frances Marie Pruitt, age 83, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Monday, November 4, 2019, at her home. She was born August 29, 1936, in Fulton, Kansas, the daughter of James Henry White and Beulah Marie Snider White.

She graduated from the Ft. Scott High School with the Class of 1954. Following high school, Frances worked for the Western Insurance Company and later for Citizen’s Bank. She married Gary David Pruitt on October 27, 1956, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Fulton. 

Frances was a devoted wife and mother. She worked hard to provide for her family’s needs. She enjoyed sewing and made many of her children’s clothes. In addition to raising her children, Frances also worked as a cook at various schools and sold Avon for over forty years. She also liked to crochet, knit, and cross-stitch. She attended the Fulton United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her seven children, Urvy Pruitt and wife, Linda, of Ft. Scott, Roger Pruitt and wife, Nancy, of Fulton, Brenda Foerschler and husband, Jerry, of Harrisonville, Missouri, Ronnie Pruitt and wife, Barb, of Hume, Missouri, Connie Johnston, and husband, Bill, of Kincaid, Kansas, Terry Pruitt and wife, Tammy, of Ft. Scott and Sherry Yarick and husband, Mariott, of Hume, Missouri. Also surviving are nineteen grandchildren and thirty-seven great-grandchildren with three more on the way and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Her husband, Gary, preceded her in death on May 15, 1988. She was also preceded in death by her parents and a grandson.

Rev. Chuck Russell will conduct funeral services at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, November 9th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the St. Michael’s Cemetery at Fulton. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Friday at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Linda Krause

(From Friskel Funeral Home)

Linda Ann Krause, 64, of Fredonia, Kansas died at 3:57 pm Sunday, November 3, 2019 at the Wilson Medical Center in Neodesha, Kansas following an illness.

Linda was born October 14, 1955 in Frontenac, Kansas. She was the daughter of Andrew A. and Bonnie L. (Swanson) Carrier.

She was a graduate from Concordia High School in Concordia, Kansas and spent most of her life in the Fredonia area.

Linda was married to Gary Lee Krause, he preceded her in death on June 9, 2004.

She worked as an office manager at Flint Oak Lodge for many years. She enjoyed hunting with her husband and spending time outdoors.

Linda is survived by two brothers; Andrew (Debbie) Carrier of Olathe, Kansas, Gary (Jodee) Carrier of Vinita, Oklahoma, five nieces and nephews; Skylar (Steven) Stewart and daughter Sierra of Olathe, Kansas, Andrew Q. Carrier of Ottawa, Kansas, Kailea Carrier of Lawrence, Kansas, Kyle Carrier of Olathe, Kansas, Brooklynn Carrier of Vinita, Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by her husband and parents.

Memorial Services will be 2pm, Friday, November 8, 2019 at the Friskel Funeral Home in Frontenac, KS with Father Philip Voegeli, officiating. Inurnment will follow at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Pittsburg, KS.

Family will receive friends prior to the service at 1:30 pm at the Friskel Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the Rheumatoid Arthritis Foundation. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to the Friskel Funeral Home 230 E. McKay Frontenac, KS 66763. E-mail condolences may be left at www.friskelfuneralhome.com. 

Arrangements are by Friskel Funeral Home of Frontenac, KS.

Bill Pfannenstiel

(From Brenner Mortuary)

William “Bill” Pfannenstiel, 75, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away at 11:57 PM, Saturday, November 2, 2019 at his residence.

He was born May 25, 1944, in Lebanon, KS, to Jacob and Magdalen (Geist) Pfannenstiel. On September 4, 1965, he was united in marriage to Cynthia Susan Bittel at St. Mary’s Church in Ellis, KS. Bill’s education included a BA in political science from Fort Hays State University in 1966 and a BS in education from University of Kansas in 1968. When he finished his degree at KU he served in the United States Air Force at Lackland Air Base in San Antonio, TX from 1968-1972, working with Project 100,000.

After leaving the Air Force, Bill completed his Masters in Librarianship at Emporia State University. In 1973, he began his library career at Pittsburg High School. He also worked at Independence Community College and served as Reference Librarian at NEO A&M College in Miami, OK. He concluded his career at Axe Library, Pittsburg State University, retiring in 2008.

Bill had many interests and projects. He was involved with hosting PSU international students and helped with International Friends of Pittsburg. For the past 11 years he volunteered with Meals on Wheels. He and Cynthia cared for numerous rescued dogs and cats, enjoyed birding and outdoor activities. He enjoyed reading, working on improvements to the homestead, and landscaping.

Bill was known for his generosity, kindness, and a profound respect for all life.

He had a special loyalty and love for his friends and his family, especially for his beloved wife of 54 years.

In addition to his wife, Cynthia, he is survived by a brother Gary Pfannenstiel and wife Claudia of Denver, CO, a sister Marge Bailey of Berryton, KS, and a sister Mary Forrester of Salina, KS.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial is set for 1:30 PM, Friday, November 8, 2019, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Father Jerome Spexarth as celebrant. A parish rosary will be prayed at 6:00 PM on Thursday, at the Brenner Mortuary.

 The family will receive Friends following the rosary until 7:30 PM. The family suggests memorials be given to the S.E.K. Humane Society. 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 Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS. Burial will take place at a later date at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ellis, KS.