Arlene Barrett (Posted 10/17/25)
Arlene Barrett, age 100, passed away in Salina, Kansas on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.
She was born on a Kansas farm near Bigelow on November 28, 1924, the daughter of Clarence and Lillie Bronaugh. She attended grade school in a small rural schoolhouse, traveling via horseback. She boarded in Frankfort, Kansas through high school.
She met her future husband Bill Barrett at Frankfort High School. They married November 17, 1945, and they made their first home in Manhattan Kansas where she was a homemaker and mother to daughters Pamela (Hodges) and Patricia (Kuckelman).
The family attended the First United Methodist church in Manhattan, where she was a lifelong member and active in the Women’s Bible Study. She volunteered for many years at Mercy Hospital. She loved sewing and was an accomplished bridge player and lover of all games.
She is survived by her daughters, her son-in-law, Joe Hodges of Salina, six grandchildren Doug (Cristine) Kuckelman, Bill (Angie) Hodges, Steve (Abbi) Hodges, Beth Perry, Sarah (Jerin) Purtee, Alan (Heather) Kuckelman. She had 15 much loved great grandchildren.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday October 20, 2025 at the First Covenant Church in Salina. Inurnment will be held at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan at 2:30p.m. Monday
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements.
Diane Steele (Posted 10/14/25)
Diane Lee Steele, formerly of Centerville, Iowa; Suffolk, Virginia and Manhattan, Kansas passed away on Sunday, October 12th, 2025 from ovarian cancer.
Diane was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was preceded in death by her spouse Dr. James L. Steele (Jim), her parents Boyd Sumpter and Pauline Huffman Sumpter and twin brother Donald Sumpter.
Left to cherish her memory are her two daughters, Kimberly K. Tucker and husband James S. Tucker, Jr. of Greeneville, Tennessee and Heather D. Holborn and husband Melvin Ty Holborn of Manhattan, Kansas; two grandsons Joshua A. Tucker and Peyton S. Holborn. She is also survived by two sisters Cheryl Scieszinski and husband Eddie Scieszinski of Albia, Iowa and Joyce Tullius and husband John Tullius of Upland, California; two brothers Mark Sumpter of Apple Valley, California and Douglas Sumpter and wife Janet Sumpter of Artesia, California.
Diane grew up in Centerville, Iowa in Appanoose County. She graduated from Centerville High School in 1957. After high school she moved to Des Moines, Iowa where she worked for Northwestern Belle Telephone Company. On August 23, 1959, she married her high school sweetheart, and they moved to Ames, Iowa where her husband, Jim was finishing his undergraduate degree at Iowa State University, and they began their lives together. They were married for 58 years before his death.
In 1967 her husband’s career took them to Suffolk, Virginia where they lived for 20 years. Diane was a stay-at-home mom, wife and had an in-home daycare business. At one point she also worked at The Suffolk Presbyterian Church as a secretary. When she wasn’t taking care of her family, children or home, she enjoyed sewing, quilting, crocheting, cross stitching, needle point and bargello. She enjoyed them so much she became a member of the neighborhood ladies Sewing Bee. She also worked part-time at her best friend’s needlework shop. While in Virginia, Diane would travel with her family and friends. They would jump in the RV and go camping on weekends, travel all over the United States and take trips to the beach at the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
From there, in 1988 her husband’s career once again required a move that took them back to the mid-west to Manhattan, Kansas. She continued her work as a stay-at-home mom and wife and continued the daycare business at home. She loved animals and over the years she had many four-legged fur babies. Her current fur babies are Pickles, her Yorkie and Carmel the kitty. They will be lost without her.
Diane was a loving, strong, supportive and stubborn mother and grandmother. She knew exactly what she wanted, and how she wanted things done. She loved her family and friends with all her heart. She will be missed by many, especially her two grandsons; with whom she enjoyed spending time.
Diane will be buried in Centerville, Iowa at the Sharon Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will be at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville, Iowa on Monday, October 20th, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville, Iowa on October 21st, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Sharon Chapel Cemetery. Condolences can be sent to the family at Thomas Funeral Home, 501 N. 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544 or online at www.thomasfh.com. In lieu of flowers, gifts of remembrance can be made to The American Cancer Society and the Sharon Chapel Cemetery Association Fund; send to Thomas Funeral Home, 501 N. 18 Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544, attention Steele Family.
Sharon Sando (Posted 10/14/25)
Sharon Kay (Lawson) Sando, age 73 of Leonardville, passed away Thursday, October 9, 2025.
She was born on October 26, 1951, in Clay Center, the daughter of Clarence Richard Raymond and Helen (Pfeifley) Lawson. She spent her early education years attending Leonardville schools and graduated from Riley County High School in 1969.
On December 6, 1969, in Leonardville, she married Lloyd Norris Sando, Jr. and spent 55 wonderful years with him. They have four daughters, Deandra, Robin, Dolly, and Holly.
Sharon worked in the banking industry for nearly 50 years, starting as a bank teller for Leonardville State Bank and then as a branch manager for Riley State Bank. In her earlier career, she worked at Leonardville Nursing Home and part-time at the Corner Store when it was operated by the Copeland family.
Sharon enjoyed many hobbies such as canning, playing cards, putting puzzles together, playing Bunco with the ladies, attending her grandchildren’s activities, gardening, and giving Lloyd a job by watering all her flowers. She had a vibrant spirit with a love for life and was always ready for an adventure. Her kindness, caring spirit, and quiet strength touched everyone she met. Above all, Sharon’s greatest joy came from her family, cherishing her children, grandchildren, and loved ones, offering unwavering support, laughter, and guidance.
She is survived by her husband, Lloyd Sando of the farm at Leonardville; four daughters, Deandra Sando-Anderson and husband Chris of Leonardville, Robin Sando-Anderson and husband Brian of Edmond, Oklahoma, Dolly Stanley and husband Dustin of Manhattan, and Holly Sando-Vassor and husband Paul of Olathe; seven grandchildren, Cassandra Anderson, Dylan (Jordyn) Anderson, Alexzandra Anderson, Bailey Stanley, Rylee Stanley, Tori Vassor and Julian Vassor, and many other family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Leonardville Community Church with Pastors Bruce Ferguson and Kevin Larson officiating. Burial will follow in the Leonardville City Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Leonardville Community Church and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home, PO Box 176, Riley, Kansas 66531.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
Marabelle “Mary” Moege (Posted 10/11/25)
Marabelle “Mary” Louise Moege, 100, of Wamego, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at the Valley Vista Good Samaritan Center. She was a life-long resident of the Wamego and Alma communities.
Mary was born on January 18, 1925, in rural Burns, Kansas, the daughter of Oliver A. and Minnie G. (Weber) Anderson. She attended school in Alma and graduated from Alma High School in 1942. During WWII, Mary and her sister spent time in Wichita, where they were working for the war effort as “Rosie the Riveters”.
On October 18, 1948, Mary married Warren Arthur Moege in Alma. They lived there until 1957, when they moved to Wamego. They owned and operated Moege Truck Lines until his death on May 30, 1973.
Mary worked many years at the Alma Signal Enterprise paper as a typesetter. After moving to Wamego, she worked for the Wamego Times until her retirement.
She was very involved with her nieces and nephews and in later years her grand nieces and nephews. She loved to travel with her family and especially enjoyed trips to the beach where she gathered a large collection of seashells. She started a Christmas family tradition with a grocery give away gift exchange. She was an extremely hard worker and was always willing to help on the farm. She cut weeds and picked rock well into her 80’s. She was especially fond of her chickens and enjoyed taking care of them. She knew all the different birds and taught each family member all the different names. Her nieces and nephews saw her as the “fun aunt” and always enjoyed the times they were together.
Mary loved to bowl and won many awards as a member of the Kut and Kurl bowling team. Reading, gardening, baking, working Criptoquotes, crossword, and puzzles were special interests.. She always raised a large garden and gave away gallons of strawberries. She would arrive at family get togethers loaded with fried chicken, pie and homemade bread. Her bread won her ribbons at the Mid-American Fair. Mary was a member of St. John Lutheran Church and the American Legion Auxiliary, attended Redeemer Lutheran Church at Lake Wabaunsee.
Mary is survived by her sister-in-laws, Anna Mae Anderson and Jo-Ann Miller, brother-in-laws Dan Moege and Earl (Paula) Moege; and numerous nieces, nephews and grand- nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Lou Cromer (Dale), Don (Mary Elizabeth) Anderson, Larry Anderson and Stephen Anderson, her niece Amy Lou Billesback and nephew.Alan Cromer.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church in Alma. Reverend Robert Grimm will be officiating. Burial will follow at St. John Lutheran Cemetery. The family will greet friends beginning at 10:00 am until service time. They suggest memorial contributions to either St. John Lutheran School or the American Legion Auxiliary, and those may be sent in care of Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.
Richard McInteer (Posted 10/11/25)
Richard L. McInteer “Mac,” age 79, of Manhattan, passed away October 2, 2025, at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan.
He was born on April 29, 1946, in Topeka, the son of Sanford and Rosemary McInteer. Mac grew up in Manhattan and attended Manhattan schools, graduating from Manhattan High School with the class of 1964.
He served in the U. S. Navy from 1963 until his honorable discharge in 1967. While in the navy he served two tours in Vietnam, serving on the USS Enterprise. He earned the National Defense Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal and Service Medal with two Bronze Stars. After his service time in the navy, Mac attended Vo-Tech in Manhattan and studied printing.
In February of 1972 he was hired at the McCall Pattern Company in Manhattan. He worked at McCall’s until he retired as head pressman in December of 2005. It was at McCall’s he met his wife, Jeannette Brown. They were married in March of 1982.
Mac had three children, Jamie, Renda, and Tracy, with his first wife, Michelle Parshall. He was a great father to his children. Mac was a man who was there for his family and friends anytime he could help.
Mac had many hobbies including water skiing, snow skiing, running in 5k races, dancing the two-step, and he loved to attend the motorcycle rally in Sturgis, he attended six times. He also loved skeet shooting and of course cars!
The family would like to thank Midwest Transplant Network for assistance with Mac being able to be a donor and allowing him to help someone else after his passing. Mac donated his pacemaker to a school of veterinarian medicine to be able to be used for studies.
Preceding Mac in death are his parents, his brother John McInteer, and his children Renda McInteer and Tracy McInteer.
He is deeply missed by his wife Jeannette, his son Jamie McInteer; siblings: Jim McInteer (Cathy), Mary Kay Gray (Regie), and Ann Souder (Tim); and his grand-dog Chevy, and his many wonderful friends and co-workers.
Graveside services for Mac will be held at 1:00p.m. Friday October 17, 2025, at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at Fort Riley in Manhattan.
The family will have a reception starting at 2:00p.m. Friday October 17 at the Blue Hills Room, 2315 Tuttle Creek Blvd in Manhattan, following the graveside service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project. 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
Paul Gaudette (Posted 10/11/25)
Paul K. Gaudette died on October 8, 2025, at the age of 85.
He was born in Groveton, New Hampshire in August 1940. He later moved to Unionville, Connecticut as a child.
He joined the US Army in 1958 and retired in 1978. He received two Purple Hearts and numerous other medals for his service and two tours in Vietnam.
He married Dahlia (Noyes) Stitt in 1978. After retirement from the Army, he attended Kansas State University and received his degree in business administration. He was an independent insurance agent and sold for multiple companies.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Dahlia Gaudette, by his parents, and two brothers Richard Gaudette and Robert Gaudette.
He is survived by his two sisters Mary Manyak and Terry Shopey from Connecticut. He is also survived by his four stepchildren, eleven step grandchildren and twelve step great grandchildren.
Graveside services with full military honors will be held at 1:00p.m. Monday October 13, 2025, at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at Fort Riley, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road in Manhattan.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com
John Brychta (Posted 10/8/25)
John J. Brychta,76, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away on September 10, 2025.
He was born on March 21, 1949, in Marysville, Kansas. He attended Hanover High School where he graduated in 1967.
John served in the US Army from 1968-1970 where he served in the Vietnam War. He was a member of National Dusters, Quad & Searchlights Associations, and attended annual meetings.
He spent close to 50 years in the floor covering business and worked at KSU doing furniture upholstery and repair.
He spent the last 43 years living at Lake Elbo enjoying lake life. He had several different boats while living at the lake and could be found with a rod and reel casting off the dock he built in his back yard.
John spent lots of time working on and around his home. There was always a plentiful garden and a manicured lawn. As well as several rock walls he built around the property.
His pride and joy was restoring his 1969 Camaro. He bought it after he returned from Vietnam and sold it after 5 years only to find the old car 30 years later. He spent several years bringing his car back to life and into showroom condition.
He had a passion for classic rock music, especially Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Eagles, and Tom Petty. He enjoyed attending their concerts. He liked to travel in their RV spending winters going south to Texas, Arizona, Florida, and Mexico.
John also enjoyed spending time with his loved ones.
He is survived by his wife, Rita, his children, Josh Brychta and Ali Ross and son-in-law Bryan Ross; his grandchildren, Dakota and Easton Ross; his stepchildren, Chad Cecil, Ty Cecil, and daughter-in-law Paige Hayes; siblings David Brychta and Annette Kelch.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon and Anne Brychta, and his sister, Judy Dollins.
Graveside inurnment will be held at 11:00a.m. Friday October 17, 2025, at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at Fort Riley in Manhattan.
A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00p.m. Friday October 17, 2025, at the Lake Elbo Clubhouse in Manhattan.
Memorial contributions in memory of John are suggested the Lake Elbo Club. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.
Ivor Kahle (Posted 10/7/25)
Ivor Lee “Red” Kahle, 94, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away at his home on October 6, 2025, surrounded by his family.
He was born to Arthur and Beulah Kahle on January 21, 1931, in Alta Vista, Kansas. Red graduated from Alta Vista High School in 1949 before joining the Army.
Following his time in the Army, Red and his family moved to Alta Vista, Kansas where he farmed and drove a milk truck before relocating to Manhattan in 1977 where he worked maintenance at the K-State Union for many years until his retirement.
Red was married to Ethel Jackson on December 30, 1951. She preceded him in death on July 21, 2023.
Other survivors include his daughter Phyllis (Kim) Padgett of Manhattan, his Grandchildren, Stephanie (Brian) Kabriel, Ryan Padgett, Kendra Cowell, Chase (Corinne) Kahle, Chance Kahle & Ashton (Morgan) Kahle, his Great Grandchildren Kaylee Kabriel, Maci Cowell, D.W. Kahle, and Leon & Dean Kahle, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Red was predeceased by his parents, Arthur & Beulah Kahle, his brother, Darrell Kahle, and his sons, Larry & Scott Kahle. We take comfort in knowing that they were at gates of Heaven awaiting his arrival.
Red was a strong-willed and independent man who was full of pride. There was nothing he couldn’t do, fix, or build, and if he did not know how, he would work on it until he figured it out. Red and Ethel loved traveling together and traveled with both their friends, children, and grandchildren across the United States. Sharing new places and life experiences with their family and friends was something they enjoyed doing together. Dining out and enjoying a good buffet couldn’t be beat either, especially in the days of Sirloin Stockade or the recent days of Golden Corral. Red took great pride in his yard and could often be found outside on his riding lawn mower from Spring through Fall, only abandoning the mower when it became too cold. Every spring he worked hard on his garden and in recent years kept it going so his great grandchildren had cucumbers to pick.
Red’s graveside services will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025 at 11am at Prairie View Cemetery in Alta Vista, Kansas. The family requests that donations be made in Red’s name to St. Jude’s Hospital in care of Irvin Parkview Funeral Home.
Irvin Parkview Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Phyllis Fulmer (Posted 10/7/25)
Phyllis Mae Fulmer, 94, of Belvue, Kansas, passed away Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Valley Vista Good Samaritan Center.
Phyllis was born August 7, 1931, to Charles T. and Thelma M. (Buell) Cook. She attended grade school in Belvue and graduated Valedictorian from Wamego High School in 1949. She was president of her class her junior and senior year, attended Girls’ State and was a member of National Honor Society.
She married Carl Ray Fulmer of Belvue on July 31, 1949. Phyllis was a busy farm wife and mother of two active boys and “adoptive” mother to many others. She cooked for hired hands, tended a garden, canned, sewed, handled the bookwork and did everything needed to assist Carl Ray in running their farm/cattle business, including running for parts and driving a truck, if needed. She also drove her mother-in-law to every place she needed to go, as she didn’t drive.
In her early years she was a church board member, taught Sunday school, played the organ and piano in church, and drove the school bus. She was a member of Vermillion Home Demonstration Unit for 20 years. She attended every sporting event for her boys and grandchildren and enjoyed babysitting her grandchildren. Later she served as treasurer and sexton on the Belvue cemetery board for about 20 years; and with her involvement saw many improvements made to the cemetery.
In her 50s she went to work for Balderson Inc. in the H.R. Department where she made many life-long friends. During that time she was widowed but continued working. After retirement she worked part-time for Ed Pugh Law Firm, then L & L Automotive. Later she then took a part-time job as Officer Manager for the Rural Water District #4, Pott. County, then served as backup Office Manager for them, and also Wabaunsee Water District #2 for about 10 years. She then worked at Fulmer Premium Beef meat shop until she could no longer work.
Phyllis was a wonderful cook and her fried chicken was unmatched. She also loved to bake and shared generously with her family, neighbors and friends a homemade loaf of bread or other treats. She loved any reason to host gatherings, whether holidays or playing cards. She was also a big KSU fan. But her main love was her family, and she enjoyed participating in all of their lives.
Phyllis had a beautiful and ready smile for everyone and loved people. She was always ready to help others and was generous with her time, talent, treasures and affection. In return she was much-loved by all those who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Ray Fulmer, parents Charles and Thelma Cook, a brother Jay N Cook, and In-laws Ray and Mary Fulmer, Winona Fulmer, Don Fulmer and Marilu Fulmer, and Andy Sackrider. She is survived by her sons, Todd (Pam), Russ (Roxey), grandchildren Russell (Wenting), Fulmer and Amber (Dustin) Howland and six great grandchildren: Logan, Luke, Chase, Journey, Grace and Isaac, a sister-in-law Barbara Sackrider and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 7:00 pm, Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego. Pastor Cindy Neill will be officiating. Phyllis will lie-in-state prior to the service beginning at 3:00 pm, and the family will greet friends from 6:00 pm until service time. They suggest memorial contributions to the Belvue Cemetery, and those may be sent in care of the funeral home. A private burial will be held at a later time. Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.
Carolyn Blenn (Posted 10/7/25)
Carolyn Sue Blenn, 88, of Westmoreland, Kansas, passed away on Monday (September 30, 2025) at Wellsprings of Westmoreland.
Born December 19, 1936 in Braymer, Missouri, Carolyn was the daughter of William “Willie” and Mary Belle (Bowers) Simkins. She married Galen Dean Blenn on September 2, 1956 in Emmett, Kansas. He preceded her in death on March 14, 2007.
Faith was an important part of Carolyn’s life. She was a longtime member of the Westmoreland United Methodist Church where she was active with the ladies group serving funeral dinners and had served as treasurer for the United Methodist Women for several years. Carolyn was also a member of the Red Hat Society and enjoyed the fellowship with the other ladies.
Carolyn loved caring for her family, staying home to raise her children and serving as a Den Mother for the Girl Scouts. She also had worked at Hoffman Pharmacy in Westmoreland and as a telephone operator in St. Marys.
Survivors include her son in law, Jody Decker of Westmoreland, KS; two grandchildren, Chester Decker of Westmoreland, KS and Cristina Decker of Topeka, KS; two great grandchildren, Devin Decker and Kylie Boyce; and several nieces and nephews.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Galen; a son, David Dean Blenn; a daughter, Debra Sue Decker; and her siblings, Helen Mae, Billie Eugene, twins, Anna Vee and Genevieve, Donald, Mary Christine, Robert, Peggy, Reta June, Ivan Lee, Patsy and Charles.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon (October 7, 2025) at 2:00pm at the Westmoreland United Methodist Church with Pastor Bryan McBride officiating. Burial will follow at the Westmoreland City Cemetery.
Visitation will be Monday evening (October 6, 2025) from 5:00 to 7:00pm at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Westmoreland United Methodist Church. Please make checks payable to Westmoreland UMC and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547
JoAnn Goldstein (Posted 10/2/25)
JoAnn S. Goldstein, 84, of Manhattan, KS passed away peacefully on September 30, 2025, at Bramlage House at Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community in Manhattan. She was surrounded by the love of family and friends during her final hours. She was born on December 10, 1940, in Maryland, the daughter of Elon and Charlotte VanValkenburgh. JoAnn graduated in 1958 from Manhattan High School.
She married Mac Stevenson in July of 1960, and they had two children, Jeanne and Martin Stevenson. They later divorced and she was then united in marriage to Jack Goldstein on December 22, 1984. Jack preceded her in death on July 9, 2010. JoAnn was a devout homemaker and was an avid golfer the majority of her life. She also enjoyed numerous K-State activities and was very philanthropic. She was a member of Gamma Phi Beta at Kansas State, St. Isidore’s Catholic Church, the Manhattan Country Club and Gainey Ranch Golf Course in Scottsdale, AZ. She was also a supporter of Colbert Hills Golf Course. She loved spending time with her family, including her sassy poodle, Jazzi.
Survivors include her daughter Jeanne (John) Maberry of Wamego, KS and her son Martin Stevenson of Topeka, KS; one grandson, Zane Reed; step granddaughters Christina Barth and Christy Frisbie and step grandson Josh Maberry. Additional survivors include her brother-in-law Bill Rouse, great grandchildren, nieces, devoted caregivers, and friends.
Visitation will be on held on Monday October 6, 2025, from 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. at Yorgensen Meloan Londeen Funeral Home.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Isidore’s Catholic Church on Tuesday October 7, 2025, at 10:00a.m. with Father Gale Hammerschmidt as celebrant. Burial will take place in the Sunrise Cemetery following the service. The family would be honored by your attendance at the Manhattan Country Club for lunch following the burial.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at ymlfuneralhome.com. A memorial will be established for the First Tee. Contributions will support our local First Tee Chapter to deliver programs to kids and teens. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
Norma Stanley (Posted 10/2/25)
Norma Jean Orsborn Stanley, age 93 of Blue Rapids, passed away Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Blue Valley Health and Rehabilitation Center in Blue Rapids.
She was born on January 26, 1932, the daughter of Herman and Isla (Scritchfield) White in Westmoreland. They moved to town when she was a few months old. She attended school in Westmoreland and worked as a waitress during high school, graduating from Westmoreland High School in 1950.
She married Marvin Orsborn on August 5, 1949. They moved often while Marvin was being transferred as a farm machine manufacturer, raising their three children, Steven Dale, and twin girls, Connie Sue and Christa Lou.
Marvin and Norma resided in Beloit while their children attended and graduated from Beloit High School. At this time, she and Marvin formed the Orsborn Insurance Agency for ten years, where they were both agents, and moved to St. Francis. Because of poor health, they returned to Westmoreland and lived until his death after 49 ½ years of marriage.
On October 7, 2000, she married Victor Stanley. Victor was retired from owning a grocery store in Blue Rapids for 40 years. Norma and Victor traveled every year to different locations on bus tours and cruises.
She is survived by her husband, Victor Stanley; three children, Steven Orsborn and wife Michelle Fox of Round Rock, Texas, Connie Samuelson and husband Sam of Westmoreland, and Christa Duffey and husband Ross of Manhattan; six grandchildren, Nicholas Samuelson, Adam Samuelson, Travis VanDusen, Cory VanDusen, Addison Orsborn and Weston Orsborn; five great grandchildren, Shawn Samuelson, Jazmine Samuelson, Dylan VanDusen, Hailey VanDusen and Hayden VanDusen, and three step grandchildren, Nisha, Mara and Linette Duffey.
In addition to her first husband, Marvin Orsborn, she was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Isla White; two grandsons, Adam Samuelson and Nicholas Samuelson, and two sisters, Ardyth Mayor and Naomi Area.
Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, October 6, 2025, at the Blue Rapids United Presbyterian Church, 609 Genesee Street, Blue Rapids, Kansas 66411 with Pastor Shannon Borgman officiating. Inurnment will be in the Westmoreland Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Meadowlark Hospice or Blue Valley Health and Rehabilitation Center and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 176, Riley, Kansas 66531.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
Roger Schwalm (Posted 10/2/25)
Roger L. Schwalm, 85, a longtime former Alma resident, passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025 at St. Mary Manor in St. Mary, Kansas.
Born April 29, 1940, in Alma, Kansas, Roger was the son of John E. and Eleanor Elizabeth (Tenbrink) Schwalm. A man of strong faith, Roger was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Alma. He was also a member of The Legion of Mary, the Knights of Colombus, and active in several prayer groups in the area and came to know many people and form many friendships through these activities. Roger made trips to Our Lady’s shrine in Medjugorje, Bosnia Herzegovina. He remained prayerful throughout his life, particularly during his struggle with Parkinson’s disease and was an inspiration to the staff and residents at St. Marys Manor in St. Marys.
Roger served in the National Guard in the early sixties. He earned a master’s degree in counseling with an undergraduate in History from Emporia State University. He farmed the family farm for many years and later was a real estate agent. Roger retired from the maintenance department at Kansas State University.
An avid St. Louis Cardinal fan and sportsman, Roger played fast pitch softball for the Alma town team when he was younger. For many years, he coached youth basketball and enjoyed teaching the fundamentals of the game. He also enjoyed playing a good game of five-point pitch whenever the opportunity presented itself.
Survivors include three sisters, Darlene Bloomfield of Wamego, KS, Mary Button of Portland, OR and Letha Elsasser of Salina, KS; a brother, John Raymond Schwalm (Marilyn) of Nortonville, KS; and many loving nieces and nephews.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings: Fr. Donald Schwalm, Dorothy Ronnau (Theophil “T”), Edna Baldwin (Robert), Wilma Willmer (Jack), Nyla Schwalm and Maxine “Mickey” Schwalm; and three brothers-in-law, John R. Bloomfield, Bob Button and Terry Elsasser.
A memorial mass will be Wednesday morning (October 8, 2025) at 10:30 am at Holy Family Catholic Church in Alma with Fr. Michael Peterson officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Holy Family Catholic Cemetery in Alma.
A memorial visitation will be Tuesday evening (October 7, 2025) from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Holy Family Catholic Church in Alma. A Rosary Service will be Tuesday evening at 7:00 pm.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Holy Family Catholic Church or St. Marys Manor. Please make checks payable to the organization of your choice and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.
Mary Basham (Posted 10/1/25)
Mary Lou Schovee Basham, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, just over two months prior to her 100th birthday. She had been a resident of Manhattan since 1972 and had lived at several facilities in Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan, Kansas since 2002.
Mary Lou was born in Topeka Kansas on November 27, 1925 to Joseph Charles Schovee and Martha Glenn Schovee. Mary Lou’s mother was raised on a farm on the outskirts of Manhattan, and throughout Mary Lou’s childhood the family made regular trips to Manhattan to see relatives. Mary Lou was the second of four children born to her parents. Her older sister died at the age of two. Mary Lou continued a close relationship with her brothers Bill and John and their families for the remainder of their lives. Her father was a civil engineer with Santa Fe Railroad, where he worked until his retirement.
Mary Lou graduated from Topeka High School and attended Kansas State Agricultural College (now Kansas State University), where she joined Pi Beta Phi sorority and majored in home economics. She cherished lifelong friendships with her sorority sisters and remained active in the Pi Beta Phi Alumni Club, and the Domestic Science Club of KSU.
After graduating from Kansas State in 1948, Mary Lou worked as a home demonstration representative with Pittsburgh KS Gas Company, later transferring to Warrensburg, MO. There she met Army Lieutenant Edwin (Ed) Basham who was home on leave during his assignment with the military occupation in Japan.
After a short engagement, Mary Lou and Ed married on October 7, 1950. They then moved to Fort Sill, OK where Mary Lou gave birth to her first child, Edwin Jr. (Eddie) in 1951. While Ed was in Korea during the Korean War, she gave birth to Robert (Bob). The family then moved to Georgia where Charles (Chuck) was born in 1957. The following year, the family moved to Lawton, OK where Susan was born in 1958. Mary Lou continued to manage the children and the household, including responsibilities as the wife of a military commander and hostess for social receptions. Among other challenges, this included taking a ship to Europe with the 4 children while Ed was on assignment in Germany.
The family lived in Germany for three years and traveled extensively in Europe. In 1964, they moved to a suburb of Washington DC. In 1968, Mary Lou and Ed were apart while Ed was in Vietnam. In 1973, after 9 years in the same house in Virginia, Mary Lou, Ed, and the younger children moved to Manhattan, KS, where Ed had been appointed professor of military science in the ROTC program.
In 1975, after 32 years of active duty, Edwin retired from the Army. Mary Lou and Ed then enjoyed many years of traveling and sightseeing. Later, they traveled in a motorhome and often spent winters in Florida. They developed many friends in Manhattan and were active in golf and church, while continuing to visit their children and grandchildren.
Ed and Mary Lou celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2000. Ed passed away from cancer the following year. Mary Lou then moved into a duplex at Meadowlark Hills, where she cherished her friendships, enjoyed socializing and delighted in technology – mastering Excel spreadsheets, and weekly video chats with her children. She remained cheerful and gracious to the end.
Mary Lou was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Edwin W. Basham Sr.; her son Charles Basham; daughter-in-law Elaine Basham; parents Joseph and Martha Schovee; and her siblings.
She is survived by her Children: Edwin W. Basham Jr., Robert Basham, and Susan (Spencer) Tholstrup; Grandchildren: Elizabeth Marshall, Sean (Brittany) Tholstrup, Caitlin (Keith) Hearon, and Erin (Jared) Scallan; Great-grandchildren: Ella (9), Norah (7), Zoey (6), Michael (5), Declyn (3), Gabriel (3), and Jacob (1)
Mary Lou’s life spanned nearly a century of remarkable American history – from the Great Depression and World War II to the digital revolution. She faced it all with optimism, faith, and devotion to family. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A Celebration of Mary Lou’s life will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at Prairie Star Restaurant at Meadowlark Hills, Manhattan, Kansas. All who knew Mary Lou are warmly welcome.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday October 18, 2025 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan. Interment will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to, Meadowlark Hills Good Samaritan Fund, 2121 Meadowlark Road, Manhattan, Kansas 66502
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com
Ellen Hoover (Posted 9/30/25)
Ellen (Kesler) Hoover May 20, 1930 – September 27, 2025
Ellen, at 95 years old, passed away in Manhattan, Kansas on September 27, 2025. Ellen leaves behind her three children: Mike Hoover (Bobi), Jane Bartlett (Bob), Laura Thiel (Dave); six grandchildren: Emily Kiefer, K.C. Evers (Byron), Brian (Lisa), Clay (Kim), Mike (Jill) Bartlett and Grace Thiel; seven great-grandchildren: Clarissa, Ashlyn (Trey), Adriana, Kamryn, Elly, Anna and Samson. Ellen is also survived by her sister, Kate Kesler (Hatfield) and sister-in-law, Donna Kesler (Hixon).
Ellen was born and raised in Champaign, Ill. She was one of 5 siblings born to Clarence and Glenora Kesler. Ellen was married for over 60 years to William “Bill” Hoover who preceded her in death in 2010. Together Ellen and Bill moved to Colorado and then to Virginia before settling in Manhattan, Kansas, which has been home since 1966.
Ellen was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many. She loved entertaining and inspired many with her ability to host the most delicious dinner parties and celebrations. She was an avid golfer and was proud to be the first female president of the Manhattan Country Club. Her competitive nature came to life both on the golf course and at the bridge table.
Those who knew Ellen are well aware that she seldom had idle hands – she was a quilter, knitter, rug braider, seamstress and enjoyed almost any type of creative endeavor.
Ellen was also passionate about her political beliefs . . . no one who met her could question how she stood on almost any political subject – she was a conservative and very vocal republican through and through.
Simply put, she lived a life well-lived. No person is ever really gone, who lives on in the memories of their family and friends.
A Celebration of Life in honor of Ellen will be held at the Manhattan Country Club on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. Private inurnment will be at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
Memorial contributions in memory of Ellen may be made to the Good Shepherd Homecare & Hospice House in Manhattan. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londen 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
Joseph Myers (Posted 9/30/25)
On May 25, 2002, in Branson, Missouri, Sam and Donna Myers welcomed their son, Joseph Wayne Myers, into the world. Born prematurely, Joseph came into life as a resilient fighter and grew to be the youngest of nine children.
As a child, Joseph loved playing outside with his sisters and building with Legos. He adored his family and was always eager to help, often with a joke or a laugh to lighten the mood.
Those who knew Joseph well would say he had two sides to his personality. He was funny, protective, and generous, yet also a little ornery at times. His heart was full of love for those around him, and he had a way of making everyone feel safe and bringing a smile to their face.
Joseph lived in Branson until the age of three, when his family moved to Kansas. From the small town of Humboldt to the college town of Manhattan, Kansas, he grew into a young man. He attended Manhattan High School and proudly graduated with the class of 2021.
After graduation, Joseph worked a few demolition and painting jobs but spent much of his time playing video games and being with family. He was always willing to lend a helping hand—though he’d make sure you knew it! He especially loved spending time with the younger kids in the family, teaching them to play new video games, ride hoverboards and bikes, and wrestling with them as the fun-loving uncle he was.
Joseph enjoyed watching Rick and Morty, listening to music, and cheering for his favorite team, the Kansas City Chiefs. Though not much of a sports fan otherwise, he never missed an opportunity to celebrate a Chiefs win. He loved horror movies and had a special fondness for Ghostface, Michael Myers, and Jason.
Joseph was many things to many people: a son, a brother, an uncle, a cousin, a nephew, a friend—but most of all, he was a good man who was taken from this world too soon. He now joins his father, Samuel Joseph Myers, in eternal rest and leaves behind countless loved ones who will miss him deeply.
He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Donna Myers, and a large and devoted family:Jamie Myers, Joy Myers, Emilia Myers, Sarah Myers, Janessa Myers, Jessica Joyce, Jordan Myers, Jackie Joyce, Rachel Cook, and many nieces, nephews, and extended relatives who cherished him — Akira, Alonzo, Amora, Aubrie, Emmy, Harmony, Jenna, Jeremiah, Jesse, Journie, Maddox, Maliyah, Maverick, Max, Nia, Noelani, Rhythm, Samuel, Simon, and so many more who loved “Uncle Joe.”
Until we see you again, Joe.
Irvin Parkview handled arrangements for cremation.