Obituaries

Sheri Valentine Meunier (Posted 12/19/25)

Sheri Valentine Meunier, age 78, passed away on December 16, 2025, in Wamego, Kansas.

Visitation will be held on December 23, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Mission Catholic Church, located at 100 KS-63, Emmett, Kansas, at 10:00 a.m. A Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Clay Center, Kansas, beginning at 3:00 p.m. Services are in care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, Wamego, KS.

Delmar Thowe (Posted 12/19/25)

Delmar LeRoy Thowe, 80, of Alma, Kansas, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka.

Delmar was born July 31, 1945, in Alma, the son of Arthur Christ and Madeline (Kobiskie) Thowe. He attended schools in Alma. He then served in the United States Army and was stationed in Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

Delmar owned and operated Thowe-Schmanke Construction, building homes and commercial buildings in the Alma area. He worked most of his adult life as a carpenter, for over forty years. In his high school years he also worked for the Howard Meyer Feedlot.

On December 19, 1979, Delmar married Sandra Joyce (Wille) Robinson. They shared forty-six years together, living their lives and raising their family. Sandy survives at their home.

Delmar loved hunting, fishing, and thoroughly enjoyed taking his friends and family along those adventures. He was also known for his garden and his canning abilities. Delmar was also an avid KU basketball and Chiefs fan.

Delmar is also survived by his sons Jay Thowe (Christina), Caballo, New Mexico, and Dusty Thowe (Shannon), Alma; grandchildren, Tiffany Thowe, Phoenix, Arizona, Jessica Thowe-Delgado (Jasmine), El Paso, Texas, Reid Jones, Kansas City, Missouri, Ryleigh Jones, Topeka, Trayton Hartwich, Alma, Sadie Hartwich, Alma, Taryn Thowe, Alma, and Dacey Thowe, Alma; and great-grandchildren Weslee Hartwich and Paisley Thowe. He is also survived by his sister, Dorothy Covington (Calvin), St. Marys. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, John Palenske, Nyla Lesline, Ella Marr, Art Thowe, Robert Thowe, and Vernon Thowe.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 am on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego, Kansas. Reverend Robert Grimm will be officiating. Inurnment will follow the memorial service with military honors performed by the Fort Riley Honor Guard Detail and Alma American Legion Post 32 at Peace United Church of Christ Cemetery, Alma. The family will greet friends on Monday, December 22, 2025, at the funeral home, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the “Veterans of Foreign Wars” or “Alma American Legion.” Please make checks payable to the charity of your choice and those may be sent in care of the funeral home at P.O. Box 48, Wamego, KS, 66547. Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.

Bertha “Betty” Ball (Posted 12/17/25)

Bertha “Betty” Marie Prockish Ball, 98, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away on December 15, 2025, at Ascension Living Via Christi Village. She was born on July 17, 1927, in St. Mary’s, Kansas, to Frances and Magdalena “Lena” (Macht) Prockish.

Betty grew up on the family farm in the St. George area and was the eldest of seven children. She attended a one-room schoolhouse through the eighth grade and later graduated from St. George High School, where she formed lifelong friendships with Wilma Brooks and Mildred Goehring. Known as “the Three Musketeers,” the three friends met monthly to play cards and enjoy pizza well into their 90s.

Following high school, Betty worked at the Kansas State University 4-H office. On April 15, 1948, she married Kenneth D. “Scottie” Ball at Seven Dolors Catholic Church. After their marriage, Betty worked alongside Scottie, helping feed hired hands and managing bookkeeping for their farming and cattle operations. Together, they managed cattle and farmland for Jack Vanier’s Manhattan operation from the 1950s until their retirement in 1981. Scottie preceded her in death on April 8, 1983. They were blessed with three sons. Together, Betty and Scottie shared a love that resonated deeply.

Betty was involved in the Pottawatomie and Manhattan communities. She served as a 4-H leader, was a longtime member and president of the Seven Dolors Altar Society, worked for more than 50 years at The Budget Shop, served as secretary and president of Green Valley E.H.U./KAFCE, and was a member of the Green Valley Board. She also worked for over 20 years as a cook for Manhattan Catholic Schools.

Above all, Betty loved her family and was proud of each and every one of them. Her true passions included helping her children and grandchildren with 4-H projects, playing games of all kinds with her family, also quilting, and painting. She was grateful to witness the successes of her children and their families.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Scottie; her son, Douglas W. Ball; her parents, Frances and Lena Prockish; her sister, Dorene Prockish Howard; and her brothers, Tom Prockish and Steve Prockish.

She is survived by her sons, Edward L. (Barbara) Ball and Donald E. (Terri) Ball, daughter in law Jeri Ball; ten grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; her sisters, Mary Prockish Weixelman and Rose Ann Prockish Wyatt; her brother, Jack (Dee) Prockish; and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held Friday, December 19, 2025, with a vigil/rosary from 5:00-5:30 p.m. and visitation with the family from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Irvin Parkview Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Seven Dolors Catholic Church. Burial will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Manhattan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Seven Dolors Catholic Church and Manhattan Catholic Schools.

Irvin Parkview Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

James Echols (Posted 12/17/25)

James Edgar Echols was, and will always be, the center of our hearts. Born on May 30, 1971, in Apple Valley, California, James brought light, laughter, and love into this world from the very beginning. On December 2, 2025, in Manhattan, Kansas, our lives were forever changed when James was taken from us in a tragic automobile accident. Though our hearts are broken, we are profoundly grateful for the time we were blessed to share with him.

To us, James was so much more than words can capture. He was a devoted and loving husband, a cherished son, a protective and caring brother, and a loyal friend. James had a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and safe. Whether through his work as a Walmart Store Manager or in the quiet moments shared with family and friends, he led with kindness, patience, and integrity.

James was proud of his roots and his education. A graduate of Manhattan High School, Class of 1989, he later attended Haskell Indian Nations University, where he continued to grow intellectually and creatively. Art was close to his heart. Painting and pottery gave him peace, and through his creativity he shared beauty, thoughtfulness, and pieces of his soul with those he loved.

On February 14, 1994, James married the love of his life, NaKeenya Hicks. Their love was deep, steady, and full of joy. They were true partners, laughing together, supporting one another, and facing life hand in hand. Their home was a place of warmth and welcome, where love was felt the moment you walked through the door. Being James’s wife was NaKeenya’s greatest blessing, just as loving her was James’s greatest joy.

As parents, Gloria and David Echols were endlessly proud of the man James became. He was a son who never stopped caring, who showed respect, gratitude, and love in both words and actions. His calls, his laughter, and his presence meant everything, and his absence is felt in ways words cannot express.

James is survived by his beloved wife, NaKeenya; his parents, Gloria and David Echols; his brother, Jonathan Echols; and his precious niece, Nizhoni Echols, who brought him so much happiness. He is also lovingly remembered by his brothers-in-law, Wayne E. Brandon Jr., Michael Hicks, and Eric Rayton, and his sister-in-law, Darianne Hicks, all of whom were family not just by name, but by heart. He is also survived by his loving parents-in-law James and Carolyn Hicks.

James leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and quiet strength. He taught us the importance of compassion, of showing up for one another, and of loving deeply and without hesitation. Though we must now walk forward without him, we carry James with us—in our memories, in our hearts, and in every act of kindness inspired by the life he lived.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our James.

Visitation will be available from 11am to 5pm at Irvin Parkview Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 17 2025. Graveside Services are Friday, December 19, 2025 at Oakhill Cemetery in Lawrence, Kansas (1605 Oak Hill Avenue, Lawrence, Kansas 66044)

Irvin Parkview Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Mary Kay Ryan (Posted 12/17/25)

Mary Kay Ryan, 82, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday (December 16, 2025) at St. Joseph Hospital in Wichita, Kansas.

Born June 30, 1943 in Quincy, Illinois, Mary Kay was the daughter of Arthur B. and Lillian B. (Terwelp) Borghorst. She married Robert S. “Bob” Kelley on August 9, 1962 and to this union was born their daughter, Bobbette. Bob preceded her in death on February 12, 1969.  She later married Charles J. Ryan on October 19, 1983. He preceded her in death on March 17, 1992.

She was a 1961 graduate of Quincy Notre Dame High School. Mary Kay worked for several years as an eye care technician in Quincy before working in patient accounts with St. Mary Hospital for many years. When St. Mary Hospital was purchased by Blessing Hospital, she continued her job with them until her retirement.

When she was younger, she and Bob enjoyed riding motorcycles and boating on the Mississippi River. She also enjoyed bowling in various leagues. When she became “Nanny” she loved watching and following the activities of her grandchildren and more recently her great grandchildren. She was an avid reader and loved caring for her two dogs, first Bogey and later Maggie, and would watch Bobbette’s dogs, Sadie and Coco when she was needed.  After moving to Manhattan, she loved going to her workout classes at Genesis Health Club where she met a wonderful group of ladies who became very good friends.

Mary Kay was a member of Madison Park Christian Church while living in Quincy and attended Crest View Church in Manhattan.

Survivors include her daughter, Bobbette Cookson (Kyle) of Manhattan, KS; her three grandchildren, Shannon Leeds (A. J.) of Alpharetta, GA, Shaun Cookson (Angie) of Austin, AR and Shay Strubinger (Evan) of Manhattan, KS; her four great grandchildren, Lillian Leeds, Lucas Leeds, Taya Strubinger and Ayla Strubinger. She is also survived by her sister, Diane Putnam of Hillsboro, IL; a brother Daniel Borghorst (Carol) of Quincy; a brother in law, Kent Kelley (Jenny) of Galesburg, IL; and many loving nieces, nephews and friends.

Mary Kay was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; and a brother in law, Don Putnam.

A visitation for Mary Kay’s friends in Kansas will be held Saturday afternoon (December 20, 2025) from 3:00 to 5:00 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon (December 23, 2025) at 2:00 at O’Donnell Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, Illinois. Visitation will be Tuesday afternoon from 1:00 until the time of services at the funeral home in Quincy.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Purple PAWS of Manhattan. Please make checks payable to Purple PAWS and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.

Rodney Erickson (Posted 12/17/25)

Rodney Jay Erickson, age 69, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at his home in Manhattan, Kansas, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was born on November 27, 1956, in Herington, Kansas, to Leland W. and Marjorie (Hamm) Erickson.

Rodney was united in marriage to Roberta Hayes on June 4, 1983, in Herington, Kansas. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and faith.

Rodney will be remembered for his quiet strength, kind heart, and steady devotion to his family and his faith. His life reflected humility, patience, and a deep love for those around him.

In his earlier years, Rodney enjoyed hunting and spending time outdoors. He also loved playing golf and was a devoted Jayhawk fan. Above all else, Rodney cherished his family. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a proud Papa who found his greatest joy in time spent with his grandchildren.

Rodney is survived by his wife, Roberta Erickson, of Manhattan; his sons, Taylor (Heather) Erickson, of De Soto, and Parker (Shelby) Erickson, of Tampa; his brother, Rick (Collette) Erickson, of Chapman; his sister, Debra (Wendell) Christner, of McPherson; and his beloved grandchildren, Bennett, Reese, and Grady Erickson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leland and Marjorie Erickson.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with the rosary following, on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Manhattan, Kansas. Inurnment will follow at Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Thomas More Catholic Church or Accord Hospice, in care of Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Joyce Stryker (Posted 12/15/25)

Joyce Nadine Stryker, age 85, of Waterville, passed away Friday, December 12, 2025, at Blue Valley Health and Rehabilitation Center.

She was born on November 13, 1940, in Waterville, the daughter of Adolph and Mabelle (Kalous) Smith. Joyce began her education in a one-room schoolhouse, an experience that helped shape her strong work ethic, independence, and lifelong appreciation for community. She graduated from Waterville High School in 1958.

On September 13, 1959, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Waterville, she married Billy Joe Stryker. He preceded her in death in 2006.

Joyce resided most of her life in the house she was born in, first as a much-loved daughter and big sister, and then with Joe, the love of her life. Together, they raised their two children there and continued to call it home long after their children were grown.

Joe and Joyce didn’t just raise kids, they created a family with roots so deep and love so strong that the impact will be felt for generations.

Joyce had a wonderful group of friends throughout her life. In her younger years, she loved dancing often with Joe and their friends and spending evenings playing cards and enjoying each other’s company. Those friendships remained important to her, and in her senior years she continued her sense of adventure by traveling with friends to nearby towns, always eager to try new restaurants and share a good meal and laughter.

Joyce will be remembered as the grandma who attended every event her grandkids had and showed up with love and pride, someone you could always count on. Her family was her greatest joy.

Dedicated. Dependable. Present. Caring. Attentive. All these qualities that embodied Joyce extended far beyond her role as a loving wife, mom, and grandma. In business, in the community, and in her church, she showed up with the same dedication, hard work, and genuine care for others.

Joyce was a businesswoman, serving as Vice President and insurance agent at Citizens State Bank for over 50 years, an accomplishment that was almost unheard of when she began her career. She was a proud and active member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church and its service groups, and a true leader in the community. Joyce belonged to the Waterville Lions Club, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, BPW, CMH Foundation Board, Red Hat Society, and Ladies Auxiliary, WW2 Coffee group and was a past president of the Chamber of Commerce.

Joyce’s desire to serve, her faithfulness, her caring heart, and her dedication were evident in the many roles she fulfilled throughout her life. Whether as a wife, mom, grandma, bank vice president, church servant, organizer of town celebrations, or the driving force behind countless community events, she handled it all with grace, love, and unwavering commitment.

Never one to say “no,” Joyce volunteered for many organizations, including the Weaver Hotel, Waterville Opera House Renovation Committee, and Meals on Wheels. Joyce and Joe also shared a love of travel, camping, and participating in parades with their wagon and horses, including the Lawrence Christmas Parade, American Royal, and Cheyenne Frontier Days.

She is survived by one son, Don Stryker and wife Dana of Waterville; one daughter, Buffy Oatney and husband John of Waterville; seven grandchildren, Ashley Carnes (Gary), Adrian Stryker (Cassandra), Garrett Stryker (Allison), Johnathan Oatney (Abby), Morgan Porter (Mike), Jared Oatney (Sydney), and Donald E. Stryker; and eight great-grandchildren, Eli, Kolt, Brixton, Beckham, Ellis, Ashton, Everett, and Oliver.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Garry Smith; her grandson, Zack Oatney; and her great-grandson, Owen Porter.

Visitation will be from noon until 8:00 p.m. Thursday, December 18, 2025, at the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home in Waterville, where the family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 19, 2025, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Waterville. Music will be furnished by vocalist, Cassandra Stryker and organist, Beverly Hedke.  Pallbearers will be Adrian Stryker, Garrett Stryker, Johnathan Oatney, Jared Oatney, Gary Carnes, and Mike Porter. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. Croix Hospice and left in care of the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home, PO Box 61, Waterville, Kansas 66548.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.

Virginia Wrench (Posted 12/15/25)

Virginia Jean Wrench (Reif) was born on July 30,1947 to Alfred A. and Clara (Polzin) Reif. She entered heavenly rest on December 12, 2025.

Jean was born in Hoisington, Kansas and grew up primarily in Osborne, Kansas. She later settled in Beloit, Kansas where she raised her daughter, Jodi, while managing her own business. Jean moved to Manhattan, Kansas to attend cosmetology school at Crum’s Beauty College where she became a licensed cosmetologist. She later transitioned to working in retail.

She loved to plant flowers around her home, so she would always have something beautiful to view. Jean enjoyed baking Clara’s peach custard pie and cake, along with serving a strong cup of coffee for guests. She had many pets over the years including birds, dogs, and cats.

Jean was preceded in death by her infant son Vincent as well as her parents Alfred A. and Clara. She was also preceded by six of her siblings: Edgar Reif, Betty Yarnell, Art Reif, Inez Vohs, Robert Reif, and Al Reif.

Her survivors include daughters Donna Carter (Jeff) and Jodi Ackerman (Josh) along with siblings Charles Reif, Alice Snyder, Theresa Boxum, and twin brother Vic Reif.  Jean was blessed with 5 grandchildren: Jasmine Hodges, Jacob Hodges, Jade Dahl (JJ), Lily Ackerman, and Lousia Ackerman. She leaves behind 8 great grandchildren along with many nieces and nephews. Jean is also survived by her beloved pet cat, Tula.

A celebration of life luncheon will be held in the future.

Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, 66502 is handling arrangements.

Larry D. Williams (Posted 12/15/25)

Larry D. Williams passed away December 12, 2025, at Stormont -Vail Health Center in Topeka, he was 79 years old.

Laurence Donald (Larry) Williams was born November 3, 1946. His parents, Lyle Williams and Esther Evans Williams resided northeast of White City, Kansas. Larry attended Melrose District 51 grade school his first three years. From 4th grade on, Larry attended White City schools, graduating from White City High School in 1964. The next two years were spent at Manhattan Bible College in Manhattan, Kansas.

In June 1965 Larry met the love of his life after accepting an invitation for a blind date. He and Linda were married September 17, 1966, at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Manhattan. That marriage and love of his wife and family continued until his death. Linda and Larry moved to Junction City in 1967. While living in Junction City the marriage was blessed with their first child in 1972, Crystal Lynne.

1974 saw a move to Herington, Kansas. Most of the time in Herington, Larry worked for Baxter Construction Company and Smoky Hill, Inc… getting his “feet wet” in the field of water/wastewater construction. He also logged many hours in part-time work with the City of Herington Police Department. While in Herington, the family became larger with the births of Catherine Jolene in 1976 and Michael Evahrt in 1983.

The family moved back to Manhattan in 1985 where Larry was employed by Walters-Morgan Construction as a Project Manager and Fleet Manager. In 1990, the family moved to Olathe, Kansas where Larry was employed by Ray Lindsey Company. While at Ray Lindsey, Larry received numerous awards for achievements in the application and marketing of process and pumping equipment to the water/wastewater industry. 1999 brought the family back “home” to Manhattan where Linda and Larry resided for the remainder of their lives.

The last 15 years of Larry’s career he was associated with Bartlett & West, headquartered in Topeka. Those years with Bartlett & West were spent as an Engineer’s Representative, building water/wastewater projects from Northeast Missouri, to South Dakota, to Oklahoma, and many projects in Kansas. Larry was never bashful in talking about his 2,000 nights in hotels over the last 14 years of his career. Or, when asked what he did as a career, answering “Forty years playing in other people’s poop!” Larry took pride in knowing his projects were critical in providing people with safe drinking water or treating their waste so it could be delivered back to rivers and streams in a condition safe for the environment.

One of the highlights of Linda and Larry’s marriage was the opening of their home to over 100 foster children, including Jim Picard and Liz Corder who were adopted in their hearts and are still a part of their lives today. Larry was proud to walk Liz down the aisle and enjoyed taking road trips to visit Jim.

If Larry had an addiction, it was to the game of golf. Larry was a member at Stagg Hill and served on their Board of Directors. For years, Larry was a “dew sweeper” teeing off as the sun was barely up enough to see the first fairway. Larry made four holes in one and after retirement he saw some years where he logged almost 200 rounds of golf. He never tired of the banter and chasing of a golf ball with his “geezer group” at Stagg Hill Golf Club. Playing competitively with the guys… very competitively… while vying for quarters was a daily routine he looked forward to doing.

Larry’s parents preceded him in death. Surviving him is his loving wife of almost 60 years, Linda and his children, Crystal Lynne Danker (Sam) of Manhattan, Catherine Jolene Smith (Travis) of Versailles, MO, and Michael Evahrt Williams (Amanda) of Fayetteville, NC, his grandchildren Reagan (Matt), Kennedy, Anna (Nate), Christopher (Haley), Russell, Austin (Tasi), Riley, Peyton and great-grandchildren, Kiko, Kai, Hunter and Dalton. He will also be missed by his lap-companion, Angel.

“Playing golf, you can get a bad bounce of the ball, or you can mishit a shot far into the trees. Like life, when the bad bounces happen you can’t go back. You can only focus on the shot in front of you and try to do better. Golf can be a humbling game. Life can be a humbling experience. No matter how sweet the shot coming off the club, nothing can match the satisfaction of a loving wife and family that the Good Lord has so blessed me with.”

The family will greet friends during a visitation from 5:00 until 7:00p.m. Wednesday December 17, 2025, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10:00a.m. Thursday December 18, 025 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan. Private inurnment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Larry be made to the Manhattan Junior Golf Association (manhattanjrgolf.com) or the KVC Kansas (kansas.kvc.org/donate). Contributions may also be sent to the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com

Willa Erickson (Posted 12/15/25)

Willa Irene Erickson, age 96 of Olsburg, passed away Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Wellsprings of Westmoreland.

She was born in Summerfield, the daughter of Roy and Ida (Ringen) Robeson.  She attended local schools and Kansas State Teachers College.  Not long after graduating from high school, she married Leland Braddock in 1947 and they had two children, Dennis and Gayle.  Lee preceded her in death in 1958.

She later married John Erickson in 1960.  They had one son, Randall.  John preceded her in death in 2005.

Willa worked as a teacher, waitress and as a records clerk for Lincoln Gas Company.  Later she ran her restaurant, The Coffee Cup Café in Summerfield.  In 1967, she began to run a farrow-to-finish hog operation, which she continued for 23 years until her retirement.

She is survived by two sons, Dennie Braddock (Charlotte) of Olsburg and Randy Erickson (Jeff Powell) of Manhattan; one daughter, Gayle Casselman (Tom) of Pineville, Oregon; three grandchildren, René Roberts, Todd Braddock and Tony Braddock; five great grandchildren and nine great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Lee Braddock and John Erickson and two brothers, Lawrence Robeson and Dale Robeson.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 7:30 pm on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home in Riley.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, December 19, 2025, in the Summerfield Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Olsburg Lutheran Church and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home, PO Box 176, Riley, KS 66531.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.

Larry Setter (Posted 12/15/25)

Larry John Setter, 79, of McFarland, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at his home.

Larry was born September 9, 1946, in Garnett, Kansas, the son of Michael J. and Mareeta (Shellhorn) Setter. He was raised in Garnett where he spent his time playing basketball, baseball, frequently riding his bike to hangout with friends in Greeley, and was constantly going whether it was joining the wheat harvest or working locally. After graduating from Garnett High School in 1964 he attended and graduated from Pittsburg State University Vo-Tech.

Larry served in the United States Air Force and deployed during the Vietnam War. He was stationed in Thailand and was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant during his military service. Larry worked in logistics, electronics, and special programs.

When Larry returned home, he worked for the United Telephone Company, Sprint, Embarq, and CenturyLink. During his thirty plus year career, he started as a lineman and eventually worked his way up to the Midwest Region Supervisor.

Larry was a lifetime member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Knights of Columbus. In his earlier years he enjoyed playing softball, coaching youth wrestling, and assisting with local veteran events and memorials, such as the Vietnam Memorial in Junction City. He was an avid KU, Chiefs, and Royals fan and his frequent shouts of Rock Chalk let you know it. He was a people person, and his sociability and good humor created friends wherever he went. He was especially known for the meticulous care of his vehicles which was a point of personal pride. Larry’s civic mindedness led him to serve on the McFarland City Council and other local government positions.

Larry is survived by his children, Neshawn VanCleave, Cherokee, Kansas, Robert M. Setter (Lecia), Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and T.J. Setter, McFarland, Kansas; his grandchildren, Caleb, Aaron, Emily, Josh, Rhett, Matthew, Alyssa, and Annelise; and his great-grandchildren David, Micah, and Skarlett. He is also survived by his siblings, Don Setter (Marydale), Olathe, Kansas, and Gary Setter (Wilma), Westphalia, Kansas. Larry was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother, Robert.

Graveside funeral service with the McConnell Air Force Base Honor Guard Detail and American Legion Post 172 performing Military Honors will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery, west of Manhattan, Kansas.

Larry’s family will greet friends from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm, Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home in Alma, Kansas. A rosary prayer service will be held after visitation at 7:00 pm.

Larry’s family suggest memorial contributions to the “Wamego American Legion Post 172 Honor Guard” or a charity of the donor’s choice. Please make checks payable to the charity of your choice and those may be sent in care of the funeral home at P.O. Box 48, Wamego, KS, 66547.

William (Bill) Frost (Posted 12/11/25)

Nov 23, 1946 – Dec 7, 2025

Bill Frost passed away on December 7th, surrounded by his family, after a life filled with adventure, service, family and friends. We will miss him in our bones.

Bill was born in Kansas City, MO and was adopted by Robert and Eloit Frost who loved him with all of their hearts. Billy, as he was known as a little kid, called Clay Center, KS, home for the first 18 years of his life. As a kid he spent a lot of time at the pool hall with his dad where his love for playing cards and pool was born. Cards and pool were lifelong hobbies and he excelled at both. Some of his greatest friendships later in life were his gin rummy group and his pool playing friends.

In Clay Center he met David Bauer, his best friend who became family. Bill and David were small town boys living big lives filled with fishing, critters, dirt, sports, and their love of music. Their friendship spanned more than 60 years and their stories were the stuff legends were made of. Your face would hurt from laughing listening to the two of them tell about the trouble they got into. They could also melt your heart with a few tunes from their high school quartet.

After high school, Bill considered becoming a teacher by way of Emporia State. He loved math, just not teaching it to kids. He said Vietnam sounded better, and he graduated from Navy Officer Candidate School in December, 1968. After graduation he served on the USS John R Craig, a World War II destroyer. He was the Department Head of Supply and was soon promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade. He loved his Navy life and was such a trusted navigator, his captain often called on him to guide them through difficult waters. Next, he volunteered to go “in country” in Vietnam as an American Naval Advisor to assist the South Vietnamese patrolling in their riverboats. His stories downplayed the danger. His dream was to go to nuclear power submarine school but his eye sight wasn’t good enough, so after serving almost a year and a half in Vietnam, he left the Navy with a rank of Lieutenant. He was reluctant to be recognized as a veteran  because Vietnam veterans were not welcomed when they came home. He was humble about his service but credited it for preparing him for his role as city attorney.

Bill met Carlene Malmstrom in 1972 and knew she was the love of his life. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Bill and Carlene had 3 children and he was all in as a dad. He was a great gift giver and would do anything for his family. He could fix just about anything. He was irrationally proud of every single thing his kids and grandkids did whether they were really good at it or not. He coached too many teams to count and there surely was a surge during his baseball / softball coaching career in kids in Manhattan who could hit the heck out of the ball using his “keep your hands back and swing from your hips” technique.

While many people may know Bill as Manhattan’s city attorney – they may not know what that means. He was a fierce protector of the city ensuring they were always on solid legal ground with any action they took. More visibly, Bill guided the acquisition of land and negotiated the development of businesses all over Manhattan. When you look around Manhattan – the mall, the Discovery Center, all of the area around Hy-vee, the airport, the business park by the airport, just to name a few – those things stand on their ground because Bill knew how to clear the way. He loved the City of Manhattan and the staff who supported it. His life’s work was helping to build the city into a better place for everyone who lives here.

Bill loved to play golf – playing too many rounds to count with his golf buddies. You could find him in the back yard working on his swing and he’d come in often saying “I think I’ve got it figured out.” And years after his Navy career – he still loved the water and you could find him on his boat at Tuttle Creek either towing grandkids or fishing. He was an expert at tying all kinds of knots from his days in the Navy, and despite his best efforts, his family could never tie a knot he was confident would hold anything.

Dad used to talk about the doctor who loved him which is, of course, his daughter, Megan, who moved mountains to make sure Dad was taken care of. But there were two other healthcare providers who we are certain gave us more time with him with their impeccable care as well as lifting his heart and soul. We will be forever grateful to Dr. Mia Cosentino and Charlene McCormack for everything they did for him.

Bill was one of the good ones. His moral compass only knew one direction – to always do what was right. He served his country and he served this community with everything he had to give. He loved his family more than anything. As he left this world he said what more could I have asked for and we feel the same – he was everything and more.

Bill will be missed by his wife, Carlene; children: Amy (spouse Troy), Megan, and Adam; grandchildren: Daxton, Preston, Vivian, and Logan; siblings Ed, Nora, and Jan; nieces and nephews Mike, Kelly, Jaime, Lee, Stephanie, Alicia, Amanda, Samantha; and countless friends some of who may or may not have seen him lose his temper at golf once or twice, but always shared good times and a lot of laughter.

We will celebrate Bill’s life on Saturday, January 31st, at 6:00 pm at the Flint Hills Discovery Center located at 315 S 3rd St, Manhattan, KS 66502. Bill was instrumental in the development of the Discovery Center so it will be special to celebrate his life while standing in one of his great accomplishments.

To honor his life – thank a veteran for their service and marvel at the beautiful city of Manhattan whenever you get the chance. In lieu of flowers, and to support the things Bill loved – donate to your favorite Manhattan charity or honor our veterans through the Gary Sinise Foundation or the Bob Woodruff Foundation.

The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements.  ymlfuneralhome.com

James “Jim” Sperman (Posted 12/10/25)

James “Jim” Arlyn Sperman, 83, of St. George, Kansas, peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones on December 8, 2025 after a short illness.

Jim was born on June 30, 1942 to William and Violet Sperman in Tipp City, Ohio. After several moves with his family, he graduated from Derby High School in 1960.  His curiosity about the world around him and his love of learning led him to pursue further education.  He went on to receive his Bachelor of Science degree in Education and also Biology from Kansas State Teacher’s College (Emporia State) in 1965 and his Master of Science degree in Education from Kansas State University in 1972.

Jim began his teaching career at Phillipsburg High School, then landed his lifelong teaching role at Manhattan Junior & High Schools teaching Mathematics.  He retired from teaching after 32 years, 30 of those at MHS.  His knowledge and dedication as a teacher were legendary, as well as his infamous “dad jokes”.  In addition to teaching during the regular school year, Jim also taught summer Driver’s Education classes, which is why we say he had gray hair (not from anything his kids did).  After retiring from teaching, Jim went to work at the K-Hill engine repair shop, then moved on to several positions at K-State with Moving & Hauling, Central Mail, and Disability Support Services as a shuttle driver, and finally ending his working career as an ATA bus driver.

In 1967, Jim met Florence Batson at a church dance in Emporia, Kansas.  She had come with some mutual friends, but being the beauty she was, found herself being hounded by one of the musicians.  Jim being the epitome of a gentleman, helped her out of the situation.  They fell in love and were forevermore lifelong partners.  Jim and Florence were married on October 28, 1967 and moved to Manhattan, Kansas.  They went on to have three amazing children – Sonya, Sherry, and James.  Jim and Florence were always open about their love for one another – sneaking kisses while making dinner, dancing around the house, and holding hands wherever they went.  Throughout their life, Jim always opened her car door and helped her out, and as they aged, was often carrying her purse for her since it weighed a ton.  Their marriage of 58 years was as beautiful and wonderous as their song “Through the Years”.

Jim was a strong, kind, loving, and supportive husband and father.  His unconditional love, knowledge, and guidance was the foundation of his family.  Jim always put family first and was an exceptional husband and a wonderful, dedicated father.  His love of nature, sports, hunting, and fishing was also shared with his family and led to many proud days coaching their teams and watching his children play the sports he so enjoyed.  Though too, he was just as proud watching them land a fish or seeing their amazement at watching the vegetables grow in the garden.  His love of nature included astronomy and during meteor showers, would bundle the family in the truck and head to one of the hills in the country.  There he would put sleeping bags in the bed and point out constellations while watching for the meteor displays.  He was never without a smile or a laugh.  His positivity was catching and he radiated the confidence of a well-loved family man.

Jim was a force of nature.  One of his mantras, was “do what’s right, not what’s easy”.  This belief began many years prior when at 23, he helped provide a profound service in 1965.  His church, like many across the country, had received a request from Alabama to come help register new voters – due to the Voting Rights Act.  This law prohibited racial discrimination in voting.  And many were needed to help register the new voters.  The church would provide a room and one meal a day, but individuals would need to pay their own way down/back and any other expenses.  The times were volatile in the South and riots were daily occurrences.  But Jim believed it was the right thing to do, even if it put him in harm’s way.  So down south he went.  While there he witnessed Green Book regulations, riots, marches, and even Martin Luther King, Jr.  He may have been only one, but he helped forge a new way of law rights and it strengthened his belief in equality for all.

Jim was a tremendous athlete, playing all kinds of sports, but his favorite was baseball.  After high school, he tried out for the major leagues with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Baltimore Orioles.  Although he excelled defensively at multiple positions and impressed the coaches by hitting over .400 at both camps, they felt he was too short to sign at the time.  Had he been just a little bit taller, he probably would have been offered contracts by those organizations and played at the pro-level.  After much consideration, he decided that the best path for him was to continue on to college.

While a student at Emporia State, Jim met 3 individuals who became his lifelong friends forever known as “The 4 Fellas”.   They consisted of 3 men (Jim, Joe, & Richard) and 1 woman (Donna).  Oh, the high-jinks these 4 got into!  Even after graduation and all were married, the Four Fellas continued to meet twice a year (typically camping trips to Kansas lakes) to catch up on each other’s lives and activities.  Unfortunately, the Four are now down to Two.  But the families still keep in touch, even if for some, it is through their surviving spouses and children.

Jim was also a master repairman as his father had owned several small engine repair shops.  He could work on that old International truck engine just as easily as a lawnmower – or toaster for that matter!  He was a passionate craftsman who could be found in his garage keeping everything running in tip-top shape.

He always attended his children’s events – be they scholarly or athletic.  Even when he couldn’t attend the entire track meet because he was teaching, he would drive over during his lunch period to watch as much as he could.  He was our biggest fan and supporter.  In addition to coaching his children’s teams, because of his love of sports and wanting more opportunities during the summer for his children, he became one of the founders of the Flint Hills Volleyball Camp which is still active today.

Jim was predeceased by his parents William and Violet Sperman, his brothers Dale and Bill Sperman, his sister Beverly Riddle, and his heart sister Donna Lindell.  He is survived by his wife Florence, his three children – Sonya Paph and her husband Michael, Sherry Sperman, and James Sperman, two grandchildren – Ryker Sperman-Wiens and Josie Sperman, and his sister Nancy Rogers Klassen.  He is also survived by his heart brothers Joe Clouse and Richard Sach.

My dearest husband, I will miss you so.  You were my rock, my foundation, and my love.  I know you are waiting for me among the stars we watched so many times together.  In the blue of the sky, I will see your lovely eyes and how they would light up every time you looked at me.  In our children, I will see the love we made together.  I will miss your head on the pillow next to mine and our hands entwined.  All these things and more I will miss because I loved you and you loved me.  Until we are together again, know that I will remember all these things and keep them in my heart for eternity.

Dad, we will miss you immeasurably. You were our go-to when life got rough, you were our steady hand when we needed a lift, and our comfort when we needed clarity. You were always someone we could count on, you always got your point across without judgement, and always provided us with sound advice. You made sure we made our decisions after thinking things through. You always gave 110% and never stopped fighting for what’s right. Because of you, we have the hearts of a lion, the love of our family, and a hard-core work ethic. We thank you dad for all the calls, wise words of advice, the love you gave us, and the beautiful lives we’ve lived because of you, your hard work, and your boundless love for us. We are all better people, Dad, because of you. You were the best man and father we ever could have hoped to have and we will keep you in our hearts forever.

The family plans to have a private graveside service, with a celebration of life at a later date.

Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502 is handling arrangements.

Alve Louk (Posted 12/10/25)

Linda Fecteau (Posted 12/10/25)

John Zook Garwick (Posted 12/10/25)

Tony McDowell (Posted 12/10/25)

Tony Gene McDowell, age 57, of Manhattan, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family on Sunday December 7, 2025, following a long battle with cancer. His support team through St. Croix Hospice was wonderfully attentive from taking on his care, through to the end. His nurses Madison and Shelby, and home health aide Crissy were incredibly supportive and formed loving personal connections that helped ease him through his journey.

Tony was born on September 23, 1968, in Manhattan, the son of William Tony and Agnes Aileen (Pratt) McDowell. He grew up in Manhattan, graduating from Manhattan High School with the class of 1986.

Tony served in the United States Air Force for three years during project desert shield/desert storm. After being honorably discharging from the service, he attended DeVry University and worked as a fiber optic technician with Phone Connections of Manhattan and companies such as ADEX and Sprint, traveling for work from the years of 1996 to 2001. He proceeded to return home and find local work to better spend quality time with his son.

When his son Tony Junior was young, Tony Sr built a go kart for him to compete in local races with. He loved going to many racing events including NHRA drag racing and local races held at the Midwest Quarter Mile Racetrack.

He always enjoyed being surrounded by friends and never knew a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with anyone he met, bringing them in with his warmth. He learned at an early age his love of music from his father. They would play in local taverns together when he was a child and he often reflected on those fond memories of traveling around playing his drums. Throughout his life he often enjoyed singing and dancing to old country songs, especially those he had played alongside his father. He had a kind heart and strong love for animals. He could never turn away a stray, always bringing the animals that he found into his home and keeping them as his beloved pets.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his partner of 28 years, Alicia Silva; and his children: Paul Silva (Jodi), Victoria Martinez (Jesse), Drew McDowell, James McDowell (Desteny), Tony McDowell Jr. (Ariana); his brother: Michael McDowell (Candace); and his grandchildren: Lyla, Karsen, Ezra, Cody, Noah, Elijah, Jeremiah, and Stetson who is due in the coming months.

The family will greet friends during a visitation on Thursday December 11, 2025, from 6:00 until 7:00p.m. at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00p.m. Friday at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel in Manhattan, with Father Don Zimmerman officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at the St. George Cemetery in St. George.

Memorial contributions in memory of Tony are suggested to the PTSD Foundation of America or to St. Croix Hospice. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com

Thomas Riffenburg (Posted 12/10/25)

Thomas Edward Riffenburg, 62, of Westmoreland, Kansas, passed away Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Onaga Hospital.  He was a long-time resident of the community.

Thomas was born March 24, 1963, in Bakersfield, California, the son of Sherman and Barbara (Crenshaw) Riffenburg.  He attended Arvin, California High School.

He worked for several years on the oil rigs in the oil fields near Bakersfield.  However, Thomas was medically disabled in 1991.  He then moved to Westmoreland.

Even with his disability, Thomas enjoyed being outdoors, soaking up the sunshine.  He would help his neighbors to pick up their yards and enjoyed walking to the drug store or the South 40 Cafe to drink coffee and visit with friends.

Thomas is survived by his sister, Diana Frazier, of Westmoreland; his nephew, Michael Frazier (Trish), Westmoreland; and his step-father, Richard Lucero (Carrie), Bakersfield; and half-sister, Beverly Collins, also of Bakersfield.  He was preceded in death by his father and mother and his half-siblings, Charles and Billie.

Graveside inurnment services will be held at Westmoreland City Cemetery at a future date.  The family suggest memorial contributions be made to Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego to assist with final expenses.  Online condolences may be left at www.campanellastewart.com.