Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Nicole Taylor

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Nicole LeAnn (Goodman) Taylor, age 28 of Galena, passed away at the University of Kansas Medical Center on May 26, 2017 following an illness.

Nicole was born in Claremore, Oklahoma on July 29, 1988 to the union of Gerald “Joe” Harper, Jr. and Cynthia “Cynde” Ann (Wilson) Goodman. She attended school in Picher, Oklahoma from 3rd grade on, and graduated from Picher High School with the second to last class of Picher Gorillas. She worked as a Customer Service Representative with EGS and NCO until 2016.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Gerald Harper Goodman, Sr.

Survivors include her parents, Joe and Cynde; three brothers, Jesse Rion (wife, Jackie) of the State of Texas, Jeffrey Rion (wife, Sara) of Russellville, AR, and Gerald “Cody” Harper Goodman III (wife, Chelsea Oliver) of Galena; her grandmother, Florence Goodman; her grandparents, Betty and Floyd Wilson; as well as numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Nicole has been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home for cremation. No services are planned at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Pearl Rhoades

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Pearl Marie (Lacy) Rhoades, age 93 of Joplin, Missouri passed away on Sunday, May 28, 2017 at Pittsburg Care and Rehabilitation.

Pearl was born in Yale, Oklahoma on April 20, 1924 to the union of John C. Lacy and Prudy M. (Pence) Lacy. She married Earl B. Rhoades in Carson City, NV on December 23, 1939.

Pearl worked as a manufacturing supervisor at a garment factory, and was also the warehouse manager at the Baxter Springs Walmart when it first opened. She formerly attended the First Assembly of God in Baxter Springs where she was a Sunday School Teacher, and was currently a member at the Galena Assembly of God. Her hobbies included bowling, crocheting, and painting, particularly oil paintings. She had lived in the four-state area for most of her life, moving here from Brentwood, CA in 1950.

Pearl was preceded in death by her parents, John and Prudy Lacy, her husband, Earl Rhoades, five brothers, four sisters, one infant sister, one grand daughter, Kerry Lynn, one grandson, Robert Earl, and one infant grandson, Kelly Merle.

Survivors include one son, John Rhoades (wife, Debby) of Joplin; two daughters, Peggy Anderson (husband, C.J.) of Welch, Oklahoma, and Juanita Gaines of Joplin; one sister, Delores Moorehead (husband, Wayne) of Martinez, CA; six grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

A private burial was held on Wednesday, May 31, 2017 where she was laid to rest beside her husband in Oak Hill Cemetery, Galena. Arrangements were under the direction of Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Faye Shryock

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Hattie “Faye” Shryock, age 85, of Galena, KS passed away at 12:44 p.m. Sunday, May 28, 2017 at Freeman Hospital West in Joplin, MO. Faye was born March 24, 1932 in Maude, TX. She moved to Galena in 1989 from CA. Faye was a homemaker and member of the 6th St. Baptist Church in Galena. She was also a member of the Galena Woman’s Club, and served as President of the Resident’s Council for Galena Nursing Center.

Faye was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Shryock, two daughters, Linda Palochick, and Dorothy Hamilton, and a son, Robert M. Shryock. Survivors include four sons, John Dunn, Chino, CA, Charles Dunn and wife Anita, Rossmoor, CA, Danny Dunn, Torrance, CA, and Steve Shryock, Galena, two daughters, Connie Kelley, Long Beach, CA, and Dianne Randolph and husband Bob, Hemet, CA, one brother, Edwin Evans and wife Evelyn, Sonora, CA, two sisters, Mary Palmer, Springfield, MO and Minnie Rider, Vacaville, CA, 14 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandson.

Faye’s wishes were to be cremated and her ashes buried in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Galena.
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to the Mason-Woodard Mortuary of Joplin, MO.

Richard Atkinson

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Richard R. Atkinson passed away May 30, 2017. 

He was born August 19, 1938, to Ray W. and Evelyn (Baker) Atkinson in Broken Arrow, OK. He graduated from Will Rogers High School in 1956, in Tulsa, OK. He attended Coffeyville Junior College and Kansas State University. Mr. Atkinson worked for the Freeto Construction Company for nine years. He also worked for Midwest Minerals, Inc., for thirty years, where he served as President before his retirement in 1999. He served on the Board of Directors of Kansas Limestone Association, in which he served as President, Missouri Limestone Association Board of Directors, and National Limestone Board of Directors. Mr. Atkinson enjoyed hunting, fishing and motorcycle riding. 

Survivors include his wife, Doris Atkinson of 55 years, a daughter, Ellen Stump and her husband, Phil, two granddaughters, Elizabeth and Sarah Stump of Cheyenne, WY, half-brother, Gerald Carr of Berlin, Germany, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by a half-sister, Cheryl Moore. 

A memorial service for Mr. Atkinson is set for 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 5, 2017, at the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, with Father Robert McElwee conducting the service. A rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m., Sunday, June 4, 2017, at the Brenner Mortuary. The family will receive friends following the rosary until 7:00 p.m. The family suggests memorials to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and/or Shriner's Transportation Fund. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

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

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Jimmie Meeks

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Jimmie Von Meeks, 72, of Monett passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his loved ones on May 29, 2017. He was born March 31, 1945 in Eureka Springs, Arkansas and moved to Monett in 1958. He was the son of Evelyn Sadie Hawkins and Art Meeks. He was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Rose Witt on August 7, 1965.

He was a retired chemical operator at Syntex, where he was lovingly known as “Professor.” He loved playing guitar, driving around in his hot rod, listening to Outrider, and was always ready to lend a hand. He loved sitting out on the deck with Rose and his cat, Bob, collecting coins, and two-stepping.

He is survived by his wife, Rose, of Monett; daughter, Vhonda Meeks of Columbus, KS; son, James Meeks and wife, Connie of Monett; son, Greg Meeks, and wife Karyn of Monett; daughter, Ammy Annin, and husband Garett of Republic; six grandchildren, Kaylie Allen and husband Ritchie of Republic, Karsyn Meeks of Monett, Shey Meeks of Monett, Avery Schreiner of Columbus, KS, Trent Meeks of Republic, and Dawson Annin of Republic, as well as many friends and loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn Sadie Hawkins and Art Meeks, 5 brothers: Leroy, Raymond, Don, Jerry Lee, and Norman; 3 sisters: Pearl, Norma, and Dorothy; and one grandson, James Von Meeks II.

A celebration of life for Jim will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 3, 2017 at Buchanan Funeral Home, with visitation to follow.

Saturday, May 27, 2017

Daniel Morey

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Daniel Richard Morey 63, of Warr Acres, OK died 2:00pm Sunday May 14, 2017 in an apparent car accident on 400 highway near McCune, KS. 

Daniel was born June 18, 1953 in Pittsburg, KS the son of Jean and Mary Lou (Nevin) Morey. Daniel attended area schools in Pittsburg, Parsons and later graduated from McCune High School. He attended Pittsburg State University for 3 years and later finished his Business Degree at Avilla University in Kansas City, MO. Daniel was also known as an Executive Chef and earned honors and awards for his work. Daniel served his country in the United States Air Force serving his country by gathering intelligence. 

On May 12, 2002 Daniel married Galina S. Kuzmenko in Jones, OK; she survives at the home.
Daniel was a member of the Russian Orthodox Church in Oklahoma City, OK. He was a member of the Frontenac American Legion, the Kansas City BBQ Society, member of Team BBQ Kansas City, was known as an avid fisherman, member of the Veteran’s Administration, enjoyed volunteer work, 4-H member when a young boy, loved to mentor youth interested in culinary and was known for his famous BBQ Sauces and Dry Rubs. 

Survivors include his wife; son Adam Alexander Morey of Kansas City, KS; step-daughter Anastasia Katagarova of Oklahoma City, OK; step-grandson P.J. Lume of Oklahoma City, OK; siblings Larry Morey and wife Cathy of Strafford, MO, Ellick Morey and wife Phyllis of Rogers, AR, Brian Morey and wife Linda of Marshall, TX and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Daniel was preceded in death by his mother.

Funeral Services will be 10:30am Saturday June 17, 2017 at the McCune Library in McCune, KS. Burial will be private at McCune Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family asks expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials to the Russian Orthodox Church. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. E-mail condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com

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

Ted Eberhard

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Ted L. Eberhard, 89, of Columbus, passed away May 20, 2017 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.
He was born September 30, 1927 in Beaumont, TX the son of Oliver (Sam) and Zelpha (Jones) Eberhard.

He married Mary J. Cole in 1949 at First Methodist Church in Joplin, MO.

Ted was a manager at the Stock Yard Feed in Joplin, MO and a sales manager at Ragland Mills, Neosho, MO, he retired from both jobs. He served in the Navy, and was stationed on the U.S.S Curtis Ship.

He pitched baseball for the Yankee organization and the Former Joplin Miners in 1948. Ted enjoyed training bird dogs, hunting, fishing, coaching American Legion Baseball, mowing grass, growing tomatoes and sharing them with many friends and family. 

One of his greatest accomplishments was coaching American Legion Baseball and out of all his coaching 40+ ball players received college scholarships or signed professional.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, one son Joe Eberhard of Fort Smith, AR, one daughter Melinda (Carl) Helwig of Rural Columbus, KS, 2 grandchildren, Chris (Lucinda) Eberhard of Greenwood, AR, Katie (Jim) Battreal of Little Rock, AR, 4 great-grandchildren, Landon and Maddie Kate Battreal, Bo Eberhard, and Hunter White.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Floyd Eberhard, one sister Twyla Hughes.
Memorial services will be 3 pm Saturday, May 27, 2017 at Royal Heights United Methodist Church, 1612 Euclid Ave, Joplin, MO 64801 with Rev. Gary Thomas, officiating. Inurnment will be at the Edgmand Cemetery in Cherokee County, Tuesday, May 30, 2017 at 2 p.m.

A memorial has been established to the Royal Heights United Methodist Church, memorials may be sent to the address above. Condolences may be left at our web site www.bathnaylor.com

Arrangements are by the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home & Crematory, 611 S. East Avenue, Columbus, KS 66725.

Karel Shipman

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Karel A. Shipman 73, of Pittsburg, KS died 1:30pm Sunday May 21, 2017 at the Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg, KS following an illness. 

Karel was born March 31, 1944 in Nebraska the daughter of Robert H. and Betty (Lamadu) Collotte. Karel has lived in this area sporadically since the early 1990s. Karel attended and graduated from Pittsburg schools. 

On October 18, 2003 Karel married Louis Shipman in Mulberry, KS; he survives at the home. Karel worked as a waitress for Harry’s Café and Farris Café. Karel was of the Christian Faith; loved to travel, read and was known to love her cats. 

Survivors include her 3 children; siblings Kathy Moore and husband Larry of Garden Grove, CA, Rick Collotte of Garden Grove, CA; and one grandchild. 

Karel was preceded in death by her parents and brother James Collotte. 

Private ceremonies will take place at a later date. E-mail condolences may be left atwww.bathnaylor.com

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

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

Max Clevenger

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Max Leroy Clevenger, age 57, passed away Monday morning, May 22, 2017 at his home following an illness.

Mr Clevenger was born March 11, 1960 in Joplin, MO His parents were Virgil Leroy and Shirley Marie (Williams) Clevenger. He was a lifetime resident of Joplin.

He worked with his father operating Clevenger and Son Tire Company, Joplin, MO and later in Galena, KS. His favorite pastime was fishing and going to the casino.

He is survived by one son, Max L Clevenger Jr, Joplin; one daughter, Augusta Clevenger, Joplin; his father, Virgil Leroy Clevenger, Grove, OK; one sister, Terrie Clevenger, Lamar, MO; three grandchildren, Payton Clevenger, Levi Russell and Danielle Russell; and 3 nieces.

He was preceded in death by his mother, and one brother, Virgin Leon Clevenger.

Funeral services will be at 6:00 pm, Thursday, May 25, 2017 at Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS. Following the service, the family will receive friends at the funeral home until 8 pm.

Jay Lanning

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Jay Dee Lanning, 60, of Pittsburg, passed away at 7:36 a.m. at Monday, May 22, 2017 at the Via Christi Hospital. 

He was born August 31, 1956 at Rockford, Illinois, the son of Floyd O. and Janet (Medearis) Lanning. He attended schools in Rockford and graduated from Harlam High School. 

On September 17, 1991, he was united in marriage to JoAnn Shockley at Miami, Oklahoma. She survives at the family home. While living in Rockford, Jay was a plumber and pipefitter for Local Union #23. After moving to Pittsburg, he worked as a maintenance supervisor for Bitner Properties. Membership was held in the Plumbers & Pipefitters Union #23 of Rockford, Illinois. Jay also loved riding his motorcycle. In addition to his wife, JoAnn, he is survived by his parents, Floyd and Janet Lanning of Lakeland, FL; a son, Michael Lanning of Rockford, IL; three daughters, Hope Lanning and Amanda Lanning, both of Rockford, IL and Whitney Mobley of Pittsburg; a granddaughter, Clover Brown, whom he and JoAnn are raising; a brother, Pete Lanning of Pittsburg; and a sister, Marie Fertig of Illinois; and six more grandchildren. 

A funeral service is set for 1:30 p.m., Thursday (May 25) at Brenner Mortuary with Rev. Jim Sukraw. Friends may call after 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the Brenner Mortuary. Private family burial will be held at a later date in the Mt. Olive Cemetery. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

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

Friday, May 19, 2017

Lavina Martin

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Lavina May Martin, age 80, passed away at 1:40 am, Friday, May 19, 2017 at Galena Nursing Center, following an illness.

Lavina was born January 19, 1937 on Shaw Hill in Galena. Her parents were George and Nellie (Shira) Lake. She had lived in Galena all of her life.

She worked at King Louie, Baxter Springs and later at Vogel’s Shirt Factory, Galena, KS. In 1992, she was employed in housekeeping at Barker’s Rest Home, Galena, a job she held for several years. She was a member of Empire Mission Church, Galena. She loved the Lord and her family. She had a heart of gold and without a doubt she is in heaven.

Lavina was married to Richard Martin July 3, 1958 in Miami, OK. He passed away March 25, 1991. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Leona Brown; and one brother, Leroy Lake.

Surviving are three sons, Rick Martin, Neosho, MO, George Martin (wife, Joyce) Galena, and Leon Martin (wife, Marla) Tahlequah, OK; one daughter, Deb Webb (husband, Joe) Carl Junction, MO; one brother, George Lake, Galena; three sisters, Weda Donham, Lois Kelley, and Lorraine Gillming, all of Galena; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

The family will conduct a service in memory of Lavina at 2:00 pm, Sunday, May 21, 2017 at Empire Mission Church, Galena. Richard Nichols will officiate. Private burial will be at Lowell Cemetery, Lowell KS at a later date.

Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Milton Rhuems

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Milton L. Rhuems, 93, of Pittsburg, passed away at 1:33 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, 2017 at Medical Lodge of Frontenac. 

He was born January 22, 1924, to Howard M. and Ruth D. (Pryer) Rhuems, at Pittsburg, KS. Milton married Elizabeth Phelps in 1941, they later divorced. He then married Maurine Rees in 1953 and she preceded him in death in 1971. 

He was united in marriage to Alene R. Ahrens on October 28, 1972. She preceded him in death on November 2, 2013. Mr. Rhuems operated Pittsburg Plumbing for over 60 years. Membership was held in the Faith Lutheran Church of Pittsburg. Survivors include two daughters, Sue Hansen (Cliff) of Pittsburg, KS, and Sherry Gimlin (Rick) of Wichita, KS; two sons, Milton Rhuems (Pauline) of Waller, TX, and Richard Rhuems of Mindenmines, MO; two brothers, Robert Rhuems of Pittsburg, KS, and Warren Rhuems of Frontenac, KS, two sisters, Ruth Hendrickson of Pittsburg, KS, and Marilyn Buchanan of Tomball, TX; 13 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Donna Norris, four brothers, Orville Rhuems, Dwain Rhuems, Russell “Dick” Rhuems and Jim Rhuems.

A graveside service for Mr. Rhuems will be 10:00 a.m. Monday (May 22) at the Zion Lutheran Cemetery with Pastor Aaron Schumann officiating. Memorials may be given to the Faith Lutheran Church and/or Avalon Hospice. These may be left at or mailed to Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th Street, Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS.

Wava Adair

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Wava V. Adair, 83, of Pittsburg, KS formerly of Versailles, MO, died May 11, 2017 at the home of her son in Pittsburg, KS.

She was born April 14, 1934 in Silver City, Iowa the daughter of Cliff and Susie Sargent Stewart. She had lived in Pittsburg for the past four weeks, moving from Versailles, MO where she had lived for 20 years. She had also lived in Iowa and Colorado.

She married Robert S. Adair on April 12, 1958 in Silver City, Iowa and he preceded her in death on July 13, 2013. 

Mrs. Adair worked as a bookkeeper for the Colorado National Bank in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
Survivors include one son Duane Adair and his wife Melinda of Pittsburg, two daughters Pam Bechler and her husband Junior of George, Iowa and Audrey Strickland of Versailles, MO, one granddaughter Andrea, five grandsons Adam, Tony, Casey, Evan and Cody.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one brother Duane Stewart and one granddaughter Amy Northrop.

Graveside services and inurnment will be 2 pm Friday at the Mt. Nebo Cemetery in rural Versailles, Missouri. 

Arrangements are by the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home & Crematory, 522 S. Broadway in Pittsburg, KS. Condolences may be left for the family at our web site www.bathnaylor.com. 

Richard Lea

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Richard Eugene Lea, July 1, 1945- May 12, 2017.

Richard was born July 1, 1945 in Pittsburg, KS to Ralph and Lucille Lea. He joined the Air Force when he was 17 where he worked on the planes in during the Vietnam War. 

Richard worked in construction, the oil fields in Texas, as a truck driver, but was best known working for the school system as a custodian. He worked at Heath School system in Paducah, Kentucky for several years and for Pittsburg Middle School in Pittsburg, Kansas before retiring. 

Richard married the love of his life Carolyn Walters May 23, 1969 they got to enjoy 35 years before Carolyn passed away in October 2004. Although they did not have any children they mentored several as their own. 

Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing, and driving the back roads and visiting friends with his nephew Allen Stevens. 

Richard was an advocate for the Alzheimer’s Foundation.

Survivors include; his sister Debbie Williams and husband Claude Williams, several nieces, nephews, cousins, and of the home his beloved fur baby Cocoa. Richard was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Lucille Lea, his sisters; Mary Catherine Stevens and husband David Lloyd Stevens, Wanda Redd and husband Elmer Redd, Thelma Barton and husband Eugene Barton, and Carol “Pinky” Briggs.

Arrangements by the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home & Crematory, 522 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS 66762. Condolences for the family may be left at our web site www.bathnaylor.com.

Emma Mecum

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Emma Jean Mecum, 91, of Columbus passed peacefully from this life Friday, May 12, 2017 at the Medicalodge in Columbus.

She was born in Colchester, IL October 20, 1925.

She married Bill Mecum August 6, 1955. He preceded her in death April 12. 1979.

She was also preceded in death by one grandson, Tim French.

She is survived by one daughter, Barbara French of Nashville, TN and two sons, Knut (and wife Barbara) of Columbus and Pat Mecum of Sedalia, MO.

Four grandchildren, Andrea French of Nashville, TN, Shannon French, Stephanie Combs (and husband Carl) of Riverton and Shirley Best (and husband Sam) of Columbus.

Five great grandsons, Michael Gadrim of Nashville, TN, Drake Brassart of Pittsburg, Sam Smith of Columbus, Mason Best of Columbus and Jeret Best of Columbus.

A come and go memorial service will be held Sunday, May 21st from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Columbus Masonic Lodge (633 Garfield).

Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com.

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

Robert Mays

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Robert Lee Mays, 78, of Frontenac, passed away at 5:28 p.m., Monday, May 15, 2017, at the Via Christi Hospital. 

He was born May 19, 1938, at Burgess, MO, the son of Earl and Tena (Corvi) Mays. He graduated from Mulberry High School in 1956 and from Fort Scott Junior College in 1961. Mr. Mays served in the United States Army from 1962 until he was honorably discharged in 1964. 

On December 29, 1962, he was united in marriage to Glenda K. Sanderson at Mulberry, KS. She preceded him in death on April 26, 2013, after 50 years of marriage. Mr. Mays was an interviewer for Pittsburg Job Service until his retirement in 1996. Membership was held in the First Christian Church of Pittsburg and the Benjamin Fuller American Legion Post No. 64 of Pittsburg. 

Mr. Mays is survived by his special cat, Sparkle, one sister, Rose Beam of Colorado Springs, CO, a special friend, Mary Reinhart of Frontenac, who helped provide for his care, three nieces and nephews, and eight great nieces and nephews, and many cousins. In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by his parents. 

A graveside service for Mr. Mays is set for 11:30 a.m., Thursday, May 18, 2017, at the Highland Park Cemetery, Pittsburg, with Reverend Pat Nixon conducting the service. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 a.m., until 11:00 a.m., at the Brenner Mortuary on Thursday. The family suggests memorials to the First Christian Church and/or SEK Humane Society. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

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

Wednesday, May 10, 2017

Chris Hammonds

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Chris Anne Hammonds passed away Monday, May 8th at her home.

She was born in Pittsburg to Darrel E & Marcia M (Maloan) Hammonds June 27th, 1956. She was a 1975 Pittsburg High School graduate & attended Pittsburg State University. 

Survivors include: 2 sisters Angie Hammonds of Pittsburg & Paula Scott & her spouse Joe of Olathe; Andrea (Scott) Keele, neice of Kansas City, MO & Bradley Scott, nephew of Overland Park, several great nieces, great nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, and grandparents which included Marguerite Maloan. The body will be cremated. 

A memorial service will be Sunday, May 21st at 2pm at Knights of Columbus Towers. 

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

Lee Walstrom

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Lee Laverne Walstrom, 79 of Girard, KS died May 9, 2017 at his home.

He was born August 6, 1937 in Admire, KS the son of Rudolph and Reva (Robertson) Walstrom.

Lee served in the U.S. Army from July 1960 to July 1966.

On March 27, 1964 he was united in marriage to Barbara “Carolyn” Huse in Johnson City, KS; she survives of the home.

He worked for M&M Motors as a mechanic for 29 years retiring in 1999.

Lee was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene, he also was an avid golfer and enjoyed traveling.

Additional survivors include a brother Robert E. and his wife Rose Walstrom, a brother and sister-in-law Ernie and Jodie Huse, five nephews Paul Eric, John Damon & Thomas Storm Huse, Kenneth and Bryan and a niece Brenda.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be 11 am, Friday, May 12, 2017 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg with Rev. Kyle Rogers and C.L. Armstrong officiating. Burial will be at 12:30 at the National Cemetery in Ft. Scott, KS. Family will receive friends at the funeral home from 10 am Friday until service time at 11am. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Memorials may be made to the Pittnaz Church and/or the Harry Hines Memorial Hospice; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. Services by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home Pittsburg, KS

Frank Simoncic

(From Friskel Funeral Home)

Frank James Simoncic 80, of Frontenac, KS died, Wednesday May 10, 2017 at the Medicalodge of Frontenac.

He was born April 28, 1937 in Chicopee, KS the son of Frank L. and Rose Mary (Castagno) Simoncic.

On June 23, 1962 he was united in marriage to Shirley Russell in Pittsburg; she survives at the home.

Frank was a sales manager for Bowlus Sporting Goods for many years; he then went on to attain his real estate license and worked as a real estate agent for several agencies in Pittsburg.

He was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac. He was also an avid golfer and hunter.

Additional survivors include two sons: Rick J. and his wife Jacque Simoncic of Frontenac and Ron L. Simoncic of Galesburg, KS, a sister Rosemary Ryan of Pittsburg; six grandchildren Jordan, Victoria, Marissa, Caitlyn, Hunter and Fischer Simoncic.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 am, Friday May 12, 2017 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac with Fr. Thomas Stroot as Celebrant. Inurnment of his cremains will take place at a later date. Parish rosary will be recited at 6pm at Friskel Funeral Home in Frontenac, KS where visitation will follow.

Condolences may be left at www.friskelfuneralhome.com.

Memorials may be made to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and/or the American Cancer Society these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. Services and arrangements are under the direction of Friskel Funeral Home of Frontenac.

Tuesday, May 9, 2017

Doris Wilkin

(From Brenner Mortuary)

Doris M. Wilkin, 91, of Pittsburg passed away at 4:27 p.m. Monday, May 8, 2017 at the Via Christi Hospital. 

She was born on July 9, 1925 to Roy and Letha (Ward) Fast at Pittsburg. She graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1943. After graduation, she worked in the office at Ramsay’s Department Store. 

On November 11, 1945, she married Bob Wilkin. During their marriage, she lived in Akron, Ohio, Manila, Philippines and Teheran, Iran. They later divorced. Returning to Pittsburg in 1968, she worked at the Pittsburg State University Physical Plant, retiring in 1990. 

Survivors include, two daughters and son-in-law’s, Donna and Mel Campbell of Pittsburg and Robin and John Hinman of Lawrence, Kansas; a grandson, Robby Lee and his wife, Brenda; great-grandchildren, Mavia, Hanah and Kaleb Lee of Pittsburg; a granddaughter, Heather Kulawiak and her husband, Jeff of Kent, Washington; and a special friend and companion, John Urankar. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Lewis Fast, and a sister, Alice Mallard. 

At Mrs. Wilkin’s request, there will be no services nor flowers. Private burial will take place in the Mt. Olive Cemetery in Pittsburg. Friends may leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

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

Saturday, May 6, 2017

George Vanderpool

(From Brenner Mortuary)

George Vanderpool, Jr., 78, of Pittsburg, passed away at 11:04 a.m., Wednesday, May 3, 2017, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born October 18, 1938, in rural Weir, KS, to George and Betty Nora (Burns) Vanderpool, Sr. George attended schools in rural Weir, KS, and graduated from Weir High School in 1957. He enlisted in 1956 in the Army Reserves and served with the Military Police. He received an Honorable Discharge in 1964. 

George and June Aikman were united in marriage on April 18, 1959, at Miami, OK. She survives of the home. George worked for several companies as a truck driver. Those included, Glick Mercantile, Fadler Produce, Arma Elevator and A.J. Cripe Bakery. Later he owned and operated the Guy's Potato Chip route in Pittsburg, Arma, Girard and Ft. Scott for thirteen and a half years, retiring in 2001. He worked for The Pittsburg Memorial Auditorium as Custodian for one year and then worked at The Family Resource Center as Custodian and Maintenance Man for nine and a half years, retiring in June of 2011. George took great pride in planting a vegetable garden every year and enjoyed sharing the produce with his family and his neighbors. He joined Countryside Christian Church in 1967 when the church was in existence for 10 months and helped with the building of the church. George was a people person. Every Sunday he greeted everyone that entered the church. He also loved going to Walmart to visit with the vendors and would say hi to everyone he saw, especially taking time to say hi to the little children and shake their hands. 

Survivors include his wife, June, one son, Steven Vanderpool of Pittsburg, two brothers, Larry Vanderpool (Martha) of Joplin, MO, and Terry Vanderpool (Debbie) of Frontenac, KS, six grandchildren, John Beasley, Adam Beasley, Carrie June Monroe, Craig, Mason and Adeline Vanderpool and nine great-grandchildren, three nieces and one nephew and several cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Penny Burrous who died January 13, 1998, and a sister, Shirley Mangile who died September 22, 2009. 

A service for George is set for 10:30 a.m., Monday, May 8, 2017, at the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, with Brian Thomason and Bryce Hotchkiss, conducting the service. Burial will follow in the Crocker Cemetery, south of Pittsburg. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m., until 3:00 p.m., Sunday, at the Brenner Mortuary. Friends may call after 12:00 p.m., Friday, to sign the register book. The family suggests memorials to the Countryside Christian Church, The Gideons International, or the Life Track Christian Church. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. 

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

Ruby Rhinehart

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Ruby Mae Rhinehart, 95, of Webb City, Missouri passed from this life on Saturday, May 6, 2017 at Galena Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Galena, KS.

Ruby was born on June 2, 1921 in Galena, KS to the union of Frank and Alice (Shira) Stansberry. Ruby was united in marriage to Thomas P. Rhinehart on August 29, 1948 in Bentonville, AR. Thomas preceded her in death on May 29, 2004.

Ruby was a homemaker throughout her life, loving and caring for her family and friends. Ruby was an active member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Webb City, MO until entering in the Galena Nursing Center in June of 2013. Ruby also enjoyed planting flowers, crocheting and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Ruby is preceded in death by her parents; husband; five brothers, Kenneth Stansberry, Freddie Stansberry, Porter Stansberry, Johnny Stansberry, and Irish Stansberry; one sister, Joyce Hopkins.

Ruby is survived by four sons, Bobby Morey of Wichita, KS, Jerry Morey and wife Pat of Joplin, Mo, Bill Rhinehart and wife Pat of Surprise, AZ, and Tom Rhinehart and wife Kathy of Loma Linda, MO; three brothers, Clyde Stansberry and wife Pat of Galena, KS, Bill Stansberry and wife Evelyn of Carl Junction, MO, and Lonnie Stansberry of Seneca, MO; two sisters, Angie Shaver and companion Carl Schaffer of Clearwater, KS, and Betty Sweet and husband Charlie of Galena, KS; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS. Pastor Steve Patterson will officiate. Burial will follow in the Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery, Joplin, MO. Family will receive friends Monday evening from 7:00-8:00 p.m., at Derfelt Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to Emmanuel Baptist Church in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.

Tuesday, May 2, 2017

Thelma Thiele

(From Bath-Naylor Funeral Home)

Thelma Elizabeth Thiele, 88 of Columbus, KS died April 29, 2017 at Medicalodge in Columbus, KS.
She was born October 9, 1928 in Hallowell, KS the daughter of Claire E. and Eva A. (Smith) Wofford. 

She was a longtime member of the First Presbyterian Church of Columbus.

She was very active in the Cherokee County 4-H club for over 20 years. She was an adult leader and past president. She also was involved with the FCE and the Community Free Lunch Program.
Thelma worked as a teacher's aide for many years and retired in 1994

Survivors include 3 sons; Tom (Ann) Thiele of Columbus, KS, John (Karen) Thiele of Joplin, MO, Jim (Rebecca) Thiele of Columbus, KS, a brother Walter Wofford, Topeka, KS, along with 9 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents; Claire and Eva Wofford, husband William Thiele and brother Carl Wofford.

Funeral services will be 10:30 am, Tuesday May 2, 2017at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Columbus, KS with Rev. Dale Powell officiating. Family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6-8 pm, Monday evening. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Memorials may be made to the Columbus Library and/or McKee cemetery; these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home, 611 S. East Avenue, Columbus, KS 66725. 

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

Leonard Stefka

(From Parker Mortuary)

Leonard J. Stefka, age 86, Pittsburg, Kansas, passed away at 4:55 p.m. Saturday, April 29, 2017 at Via Christi Village, Pittsburg.

Leonard was born January 24, 1931 in Comstock, Nebraska to the late John Stefka and Anna Kluna Stefka and had lived in Joplin from 1957 until moving to Ft. Scott in 1999.

A diesel mechanic by trade, Leonard was active with Little League Baseball, Boy Scouts of America and the American Legion. He was a life member of the National Rifle Association, Western Fraternal Life Association and the Teamsters. Leonard was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and served in the Korean War.

He married Donna Stefka on February 14, 1957 in Carl Junction. She preceded him in death on March 16, 2017.

Survivors include two sons, Wade Stefka, Ft. Scott, Kansas, David Stefka, Linn, Missouri; four grandchildren, Kyle, Kaila, Erica, Aleksander and several nieces and nephews.

Leonard was preceded in death by a daughter, Rhonda Jean.

Funeral services are planned for Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel. Interment will follow at Forest Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until service time.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.

Betha Stoops

(From Bennett Wormington Funeral Home)

Betha Darleen Stoops, 87, of Monett entered into eternal rest on Sunday April 30, 2017 while staying at the Aurora Nursing Center in Aurora, Missouri. She was born in Jennings, Kansas on March 10, 1930; the daughter of the late Edward and Leona (Randall) Rodewald. She was united in marriage on July 22, 1950 in Joplin, Missouri to Carl Stoops; he survives.

She was the owner of Stoops Manufacturing in Monett and a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses Church in Monett.

Betha is survived by her husband Carl of the home; one son: Stan Stoops of Verona; one sister: Glenna Brown of Pittsburg, Kansas; two grandsons: Jerad and Sabin and two great-grandsons: Joshua and Riley.

She was preceded in death by both her parents and one daughter: Carleen Kay Stoops on May 24, 1953.

Visitation for Betha is being held on Wednesday May 3, 2017 from 12:00p.m. to 2:00p.m. at the Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home in Monett, Missouri. Funeral services will immediately follow visitation on Wednesday May 3, 2017 at 2:00p.m. at the Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home in Monett, Missouri. Burial will follow services at the Monett I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Monett, Missouri.

Memorial donations for Betha may be made to the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home in Monett, Missouri.