Patricia R. Schumacher (Posted 10/29/2026)
Patricia R. Schumacher, 92, formerly of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at her home in Tampa, Florida.
Born November 17, 1933 in Wamego, Pat was the daughter of John and Etta (Mensch) Ross. She married Lewis Elbert Schumacher on March 17, 1952 in Leonardtown, Maryland. He preceded her in death on September 26, 2009.
Pat was a founding member of the Wamego Historical Society, a member of the Wamego Study Club, a board member of Valley Vista and numerous other groups.
She enjoyed a wide range of hobbies; Pat was a voracious reader, a crossword puzzle expert, a quilter, and a wonderful cook who enjoyed cooking for her family and extended family. She taught her grandchildren the art of making the perfect apple pie. She enjoyed gardening, playing bridge and the company of friends.
Early in her career she was secretary to a general at Fort Riley; and later secretary to the Superintendent of Schools. She owned and operated Town & Country Clothing for many years with her good friend Ruth Eichman. In her final years in Wamego she worked at Balderson and Dymax.
Survivors include her son, Steve and his wife Carmen Ines of St. Petersburg, FL; three grandchildren, Armando (Sarah), Lucas (Tracy), Andres (Aleksandra); eight great grandchildren, Julian, Adrian, Nathan, Olivia, Hannah, Aleksander, Sebastian and Emilia; her sister-in-law Kathleen Ross and nephew Ben Ross; and adopted family members, Valerio and his parents Teresa and Ghayth Coussa.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Gerald “Jerry” Ross.
Visitation will be Friday evening November 6, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.
Memorial services will be held Saturday November 7, 2026 at 11:00 at the Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego. Inurnment will be in the Wamego City Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Wamego Historical Society or Purple PAWS. 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.
Dennis Roy Pageler (Posted 10/27/2026)
Dennis Roy Pageler, 78, of Topeka, Kansas, formerly of Wamego, passed away on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at his home.
Dennis was born November 25, 1947, in Wamego, Kansas, the son of Roy and Esther (Niedfeldt) Pageler. He attended grade school in Belvue and graduated from Wamego High School in 1965. He then served in the United States Army. He was a medical specialist, stationed in Vietnam during the war. After his service in the Army, he served two years in the National Guard.
On July 30, 1967, Dennis married Evelyn Marie Hiner. They shared fifty-four years together. They enjoyed riding their scooters and traveling to Branson and Eureka Springs. Evelyn preceded Dennis in death on September 3, 2021.
Dennis was a meat cutter for many years. He then started working for the State of Kansas as a chemist testing water samples. He also worked prior to his military service and for a time after at the cheese factory in Wamego and then in Alma. A lifelong hobby for Dennis was fixing small engines. He would buy various sized lawn mowers and restore them. He enjoyed baseball and was a Royals fan.
Dennis is survived by his children; Anthony Pageler (Tracy), Lincoln, Nebraska and Janice Pageler (Michael Tippets), Topeka; his grandchildren, Rachel Pageler and Zach Pageler (AJ Andrews), all of Lincoln, and Zoe Tippets (Jon Waggle), Mylee Tippets (Aguilar-Soriano’) and Connor Tippets, all of Topeka. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Phillip Theel. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Barbara Theel.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, November 21, 2026, at Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego. Reverend Bonnie Goodwin will be officiating. The family will greet friends prior to the service beginning at 10:00 am. Inurnment with military honors will follow at Immanuel Faith Christian Church Cemetery at Wells Creek. Memorial contributions are suggested to Midland Hospice and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.campanellastewart.com.
Donald “Don” William Peters (Posted 10/27/2026)
Donald “Don” William Peters was born on May 1st, 1958, in Junction City, Kansas, to a life defined by quiet strength, steady devotion, and service to both his country and his community.
Don grew up in Junction City alongside his parents and two siblings and graduated from Saint Xavier’s High School. He went on to pursue higher education, earning his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Upper Iowa University followed by a master’s degree from Central Michigan University.
A man of simple and genuine pleasures, Don liked good food, good beer, and good company. He loved God and country, always showed up for his friends when it mattered most, and was well-known for sharing long, rambling stories. He loved riding motorcycles, especially Harley Davidson, for which he owned two. He loved riding his bikes up in the mountains, or taking trips to Cassoday, KS or to Sturgis, SD. You could also catch him at concerts or festivals. He liked spontaneously getting together with friends whenever he had the chance.
He was a proud veteran. In the late 90’s, he deployed with his unit in direct support of Operation Joint Guard with the United States Army Reserve Command 89th ARCOM. He served with distinction; his actions and commitment exemplifying the character of a true professional soldier and was awarded the NATO Medal for his service in operations related to the former Yugoslavia. He spent 27 years in the Army Reserves. He spent much of his career as a civil servant working for the Department of Defense as a contract specialist. Additionally, his work took him to Kaiserslautern, Germany, where he spent three years. He worked for the Federal Highway Administration in Lakewood, CO most recently before retiring at the end of 2020. He was an active member of the American Legion and of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).
Don passed away at the age of 68 on Saturday, October 24 at the Ascension Living Via Christi Village nursing home in Manhattan, KS after a brief struggle with a severe illness.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Margaret Peters, and his brother John Peters, all of Junction City, KS.
He is survived by his wife Marsha Lundin Peters of Manhattan, and his sister Janet Peters of Portland, OR; his daughter, Sarah Peters and her husband, Joosung Ko, and grandson Leo Ko of Olathe, KS; his daughter Rachel Lessenden and her husband, Daniel Lessenden, of Denver, CO.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, November 3rd, 2026. The service will be held at 10:30 a.m. at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at Fort Riley/Manhattan. A luncheon will follow afterwards, the location to be announced later.
He will be sorely missed by many friends and family: The Pollocks, The Hinksons, The Hackleys, The Schwermans, The Meisners, The Peters, The Lundins and many more too numerous to mention.
Memorial contributions in memory of Don are suggested to the Catholic Charities, American Legion, or the VFW. 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
Dolores Marie Dockins (Posted 10/27/2026)
Dolores Marie Dockins, “Dee,” 98, of Manhattan, passed away October 17, 2026, at Homestead Assisted Living in Manhattan.
Dolores was born on September 24, 1928, in Rural Alta Vista (Liberty Township), Kansas. The daughter of Arthur “Art”and Lena Mae (Ramsour) Heidel, she grew up in the area and attended local schools and completed her GED with USD 383 in 1976. She later attended Manhattan Vo-tech School and received training in the secretary program.
On November 14, 1945, in Rural Geary County, she was united in marriage to Earl Dockins. He preceded her in death on September 7, 2004.
Dee worked for many years at Kansas State University as a secretary in Waters Hall. She later was an administrative secretary for the Vet-Med Department where she retired in 1990.
Dee was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Manhattan. She was also a member of Manhattan Lions Club and a long-time member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, serving as secretary and treasurer over the years.
She enjoyed working in the yard, sewing, playing cards, and walking at the mall in Manhattan. Dee was a wonderful Mother, Grandmother, Great-grandmother, Sister, Aunt, and Friend; she loved big and cared for everyone with her whole heart, she served in groups with church and helped people that needed assistance. She was always willing to volunteer and loved to help cook dinners for church.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her sisters: Mary Mead, Lorrie Roberts, and her twin sister Dorothy Puett.
Dee is survived by her children: Pam Gudjohnsen, Steven Dockins and Russel (Sheree) Dockins, her three grandchildren: Eric (Karen) Gudjohnson, Briana (Zack) Kline, Brooke (John) Harris), and four great-grandchildren: Haley, Ericson, Ren, and Neil.
The family will greet friends during a visitation on Friday October 30, 2026, from 5:30 until 7:00p.m. at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00a.m. Saturday October 31, 2026, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel. Private interment will be held at a later date.
Contributions in honor of Dee may be made to Interim Hospice, and 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
Robert R. Heitman (Posted 10/22/2026)
Robert R. Heitman passed away at his home in Manhattan on October 21, 2026.
Bob Heitman, born October 16, 1930, was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and family man who cherished the simple joys of life and the people he loved most.
As a young adult, Bob had a great love for baseball and played with the New York Yankees farm team. When given the opportunity to be called up to the major leagues, Bob made the selfless decision to stay close to home to help care for his family. He continued his love of the game through softball, sharing many stories and memories from those years.
In 1960, Bob married the love of his life, Mary Heitman. Together, they built a loving family and were blessed with three children: Nancy Hinrichs, David Heitman, and Jennifer Thelwell.
Bob enjoyed spending many hours on the golf course and was proud to have accomplished two holes-in-one during his golfing years. He also enjoyed sharing stories about baseball and softball.
Above all Bob loved his family. Holidays were always a highlight of the year, especially Christmas, when family came together to share meals, laughter, stories, and precious time together. One of the family’s greatest joys was listening to Bob read The Night Before Christmas, with the youngest children at the time snuggled around him. These special moments became treasured family memories that will live on for generations.
Bob was preceded in death by his father, Robert Heitman; his mother, Gretchen (Nenstiel) Heitman; his brother, Richard Heitman; and his sister, Jo (Heitman) Steinsick.
He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Heitman; his daughter, Nancy Hinrichs; his son, David (Betsy) Heitman; and his daughter, Jennifer (Horace) Thelwell. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren—Bill Cox, Jesse Cox, Mitchell Hinrichs, Grant Haefke, Henry Heitman, Ann Heitman, and J.R. Thelwell—and six great-grandchildren: Scarlett Hinrichs, Reece Haefke, Sienna Hinrichs, Clara Umbright, Scarlett Umbright, and Palmer Haefke.
Bob will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for sports, his stories, and the selflessness he showed throughout his life. His love and legacy will live on through the family he loved so dearly.
Funeral services will be held on Monday October 26, 2026, at 2:00p.m. at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel in Manhattan. Private burial will be held at the Columbus City Cemetery in Columbus, Kansas.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Bob to the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House. 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
Robert Allen Roth (Posted 10/22/2026)
Robert Allen Roth, age 71 of Green, passed away Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.
He was born on October 20, 1954, in Clay Center, the son of John William and Margaret Ann (Rahe) Roth. He graduated from Clay Center Community High School and then went on to graduate from Kansas State University with a degree in Animal Science.
On April 21, 1984, he married Cynthia Lynn King at the Ebenezer United Methodist Church. Together they had two daughters.
After college Rob returned to the family farm, working with his dad and brother. His passion on the farm was always his cattle. Family was very important to him and he loved them deeply. Despite his busy times on the farm, he was very involved in his daughters’ activities. Not only did he attend all their activities, but he also often coached their sports teams or led their 4-H projects. He took great joy in spending time with his grandchildren, and they loved spending time together on the farm – playing with kittens, seeing the cows, and climbing on equipment.
One of his greatest passions was service to others through mission work locally and abroad. He went on several short term mission trips to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Uganda, Mexico, and Alaska. He and Cindy spent several years serving with The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) in Liberia from 1986 until 1989. After returning to the farm, he continued to be active in mission work through serving on the Clay Center Covenant Church Missions Team and with Helping International Students (HIS) at Kansas State University.
For all Rob accomplished, nothing was more important than his decision to follow Jesus Christ. His faith was an anchor in all he did. He was actively involved at the Ebenezer United Methodist Church growing up and recently at the Clay Center Covenant Church. He loved his affiliation with the Gideons, especially their weekly prayer time.
In keeping with Rob’s generous spirit, he was able to touch four lives through the gift of organ donation.
He is survived by his wife, Cindy Roth of Green; two daughters, Abigail Van Kooten and husband Kyle of Wichita, and Melissa Haden and husband Chad of Green; one brother, Ron Roth and wife Marilyn of Green; one sister, JoAnn Lips and husband Kent of Clay Center, and three grandchildren, Emmalyn, Elliot, and Landon Van Kooten.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 pm Monday, October 26, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 am Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at the Clay Center Covenant Church with Pastor Brad Mann officiating.
Memorials may be made to Helping International Students (HIS) or Gideons International. Contributions may be 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.
Larry Carl Sampson (Posted 10/21/2026)
Larry Carl Sampson, age 86 of Manhattan, passed away Thursday, October 15, 2026, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House, with his wife, Lois, and his daughter, Lori Dodge, by his side.
He was born on July 19, 1940, in Abilene, Kansas, the son of Carl and Edna (Logan) Sampson.
On June 10, 1967, he married Lois Catherine Quantic at the Riley Presbyterian Church. They were married for 59 years.
He attended Kansas State University, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in education, and continued his education at Pittsburg State University, where he earned his Master’s degree. Larry taught drafting, aviation, and driver’s education at Manhattan High School from 1963 until 1994.
Following his retirement, he worked as a handyman for several sororities at KSU. He had a passion for his family, flying, farming, woodworking, building and fixing things. He rarely encountered projects he was unwilling to take on, and with a little time, he always completed them with exceptional craftsmanship. His family’s homes are filled with woodworking projects lovingly crafted by Larry that will last for generations. Larry also enjoyed traveling throughout the United States with his wife, Lois, in their fifth-wheel camper.
He is survived by his wife, Lois Sampson of Manhattan; one son, Kevin Sampson and wife Heather of Overland Park; one daughter, Lori Dodge and husband Mike of Manhattan; three grandchildren, Caleb Sampson (Allison), Blake Sampson, and Mia Dodge, and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Jeannene Shivers.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am until service time and following the service on Friday.
Graveside services will be held at 2:30 pm Friday, October 23, 2026, in the Fairview Cemetery, south of Abilene, Kansas.
Memorials may be made to Fairview Cemetery or Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice. Contributions may be 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.
Verleta L. (Clagett) Myers (Posted 10/21/2026)
Verleta L. (Clagett) Myers, 73, passed away on Thursday, October 15, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, wonderful stories, and countless hearts made a little brighter simply by knowing her.
Born on December 15, 1952, to Donald and Beta Clagett, Verleta was a woman whose kindness knew no bounds. A devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, and a friend to just about everyone she encountered, she possessed the remarkable ability to make anyone feel welcome. Verleta never met a stranger, always had a smile to share, and believed there was something good to be found in nearly every situation.
Verleta graduated from Manhattan High School in 1972 and earned an associate degree in computer programming from Manhattan Area Technical College in 1974. On February 26, 1977, she married the love of her life, Douglas Myers. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with family, friendship, adventures, and nearly 50 years of memories. Douglas loved Verleta deeply and wholeheartedly. To him, she was far more than his wife; she was his companion, his greatest love, and the person with whom he had built a lifetime. The love he had for her was immeasurable, and the life they shared was one of the greatest treasures either could have known.
Throughout her life, Verleta embraced the things that brought her happiness and allowed her to connect with others. She was a proud woman of Native American heritage, with Cherokee, Mandan, Blackfoot, and Pawnee roots. She enjoyed attending powwows and celebrating the traditions, history, and community that were so meaningful to her.
Verleta also enjoyed black powder activities through KMA, where she found friendship, fellowship, and opportunities to share her interests with others. She worked for 15 years at Lee School as a cook and dishwasher, where her hardworking nature and friendly personality were familiar to those around her. She also worked at Dollar Tree and was an Avon representative. No matter where she worked, Verleta enjoyed the opportunity to meet people, strike up conversations, and make new friends.
Scouting held an especially meaningful place in Verleta’s heart. Beginning in seventh grade, she devoted herself to Scouting and remained involved throughout her life. She took tremendous pride in her accomplishments involving Silver Star and Eagle Scouts, and in the opportunity to encourage and support generations of young people. Her dedication reflected her belief in service, perseverance, and helping others become the very best versions of themselves.
Verleta was a natural storyteller who could turn an ordinary moment into a cherished memory. She loved singing, sharing stories, and collecting rings. But perhaps one of the most memorable expressions of her personality was her love of hats. Verleta didn’t just collect them; she made them herself, hundreds of them over the years! Among her creations, her famous Kansas Minnie Pearl hat was perhaps the most recognizable. Each hat was another little piece of Verleta’s creativity, humor, and wonderfully unique personality. She was never afraid to be herself, and those who knew her wouldn’t have wanted her any other way.
She also enjoyed finding little treasures during trips to the dollar store and had a special fondness for cardinals, owls, red otters, colorful birds, butterflies, and the beauty of nature. Verleta loved children and found great joy in activities that brought happiness to little ones, including Toys for Tots.
But of all the things Verleta treasured, nothing compared to her family. She was a loving and devoted wife, a mother whose kindness and encouragement knew no limits, and a grandmother and great-grandmother who delighted in the lives of the generations that followed her.
To her children, Verleta was nothing short of a saint. She was also their hero. Despite living with physical pain every single day and night, Verleta did her very best to keep that suffering hidden from those around her. She continued to offer smiles, kindness, patience, and compassion, even on days when doing so required more strength than anyone could have imagined.
Her daughter, Athena, lovingly known as Tina, described her mother simply and beautifully: “She was my hero.” Tina knew the pain her mother endured and admired the remarkable strength with which she faced each day.
Verleta often reminded those around her, “This too shall pass,” a favorite saying she turned to whenever life became difficult. Those four little words reflected her resilience, her determination, and her ability to find hope even during the hardest moments.
Her children knew how fortunate they were to call her Mom. She was their comfort, their example of unconditional love, and proof that extraordinary strength can exist within the gentlest of hearts. Her family was her greatest accomplishment, and the love she poured into them will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Verleta is survived by her beloved husband, Douglas Myers; her son, Joshua Myers and his wife, Alicia; her grandchildren, James and Jordan Myers; her great-grandchildren, Jettson and Rowen Myers; her daughter, Athena “Tina” Manis and her husband, Jason; and her granddaughter, Serenity “Buggie” Manis. She also leaves behind extended family members, cherished friends, and countless others whose lives were touched by her warmth and kindness.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Beta Clagett, and her brother, Carlyle Clagett.
Verleta had a special way of approaching life, often finding humor, joy, and reasons to smile even in difficult moments. Perhaps the most fitting way to remember her is through the words she left behind for her family. Written in her own hand, they capture her humor, her warmth, and her wish that those she loved would celebrate her life rather than mourn her passing.
Words from Mom
“Ladels and Jellyspoons,
I come before you to stand behind you and tell you something I know nothing about.
Next Thursday is Good Friday. There will be a Father’s meeting for mothers only, admission is free, pay at the door. Take a seat and sit on the floor.
Thank you for your unkind attention. Wave goodbye and turn around, don’t let the door hit your behind.
I thank you all, a good day and goodnight.
Do not cry but celebrate. It’s wonderful up here, fields of rainbows and colorful birds & butterflies.”
Tim Trubey (Posted 10/16/2026)
Tim Trubey , age 82, of Olathe and Manhattan, passed away October 2, 2026 in Overland Park.
Tim Trubey was born to Harry and Alice Trubey on September 20, 1944, in Schenectady, New York as an only child. When he was just one year old, their family’s Kansas roots brought them to Manhattan, where his early childhood began.
Tim attended Lee Elementary School and Manhattan Junior High before graduating from Manhattan High School in 1962. During high school, Tim was a member of his High School football team that completed an undefeated season and captured the 1961 Kansas State championship. He continued his education at Kansas State University, earning a degree in business administration in 1966.
Although Tim and Linda had known each other since their childhood and attended middle school and high school together, their love story did not begin until 1967. Tim and Linda married on December 23 of that year, beginning a partnership that would span nearly 60 years and be built on love, faith, family, and shared adventures.
Following their marriage, Tim attended the U.S. Army Adjutant General School and was assigned to Fort Carson in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He served as the postal officer for two years and was scheduled for deployment to Vietnam before the war began winding down. In 1969, he was honorably discharged as a First Lieutenant.
Tim and Linda returned to Manhattan, where Tim managed the service department of a car dealership. That experience sparked a lasting love of automobiles and gave him an impressive knowledge of cars. He later partnered with Jim McCullough, to develop the company, and establish the property management division of McCullough Development.
Through Tim’s hard work, vision, and leadership, the division grew, expanding the company’s reach throughout Kansas and into other markets throughout the Midwest.
Tim had a love for life and an adventurous spirit. He especially enjoyed the outdoors, including hunting, fishing, running, boating, and waterskiing. He was known for his willingness to try some crazy stunts on the water, including skiing on a plywood disc while sitting in a lawn chair. His enthusiasm for sports extended beyond his own activities. He was a devoted K-State football and basketball fan, enjoyed playing bridge, and remained committed to running, and he lifted weights into his late seventies causing his oldest grandsons to coin the phrase “Papa is built different”. Tim and Linda also shared a love of travel, exploring more than 20 countries together over the years.
Above all else, Tim’s faith in Jesus Christ was the most important part of his life.
A devoted member of Grace Baptist Church, Tim served in many capacities, including a high school youth group leader, deacon and elder. He held numerous other leadership positions within the church, with one notable exception: choir director. That certainly did not keep him from knowing nearly every hymn in the hymnal. All his grandchildren recall him singing those hymns as he put them to sleep…especially “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”. He continued to recall the words to those old hymns and sang them with us even until the last few days of his life.
His grandchildren often observed that Tim could hardly pray without tears. His prayers reflected a deep and genuine love for his Savior and a profound understanding of His love and power. Tim’s faith was not simply something he believed; it was the foundation upon which he built his life and the legacy he passed down to his family.
Tim loved his family deeply. He served them faithfully and sought to shepherd his children and grandchildren toward the Lord. He helped coach his daughters in sports and made it a priority to attend their games and activities. He was a constant presence in their lives, and his love and commitment extended naturally to his grandchildren. His family was one of his greatest joys, and his example of faith, service, and devotion will continue through the generations.
In 2014, Tim was diagnosed with dementia. In 2018, he and Linda moved to Kansas City to be closer to their daughters and grandchildren. As the disease progressed, Tim required increasing levels of care, and he spent the final six months of his life in a memory care home. Even while residing there, some of the things he loved remained important to him like being outdoors and watching old K-State football games on television. The staff often commented on Tim’s grateful disposition, a quality consistently recognized by everyone who knew him. One of his famous sayings was “God’s blessings to you” and this phrase frequently rang throughout the halls of the home. By God’s mercy, he continued to recognize his family when they visited, providing precious moments of connection during a difficult season.
Though Tim traveled extensively and made his home in Kansas City during his later years, Manhattan never lost its special place in his heart. It was the place where he grew up, built his career, raised his family, and formed countless memories. He spoke often of “going home.” Manhattan was always home to Tim in the deepest sense of the word.
Tim leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, hard work, adventure, and devotion to those closest to him. His life was marked not only by what he accomplished, but also by the way he served others, loved his family, and lived out his faith. The memories he created, the lessons he taught, the prayers he offered, and the love he shared will continue to shape the lives of all who knew him.
Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Alice Trubey.
Tim is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; their daughter Tami Barr and her husband, Rich, and their two sons, Trubey and Bayley; and their daughter Ginger Houske and her husband, Grant, and their son, Gavyn, and daughter, Grace.
His family will remember him as a loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, faithful servant of the Lord, loyal Wildcat, and adventurous spirit who cherished his family and the place he always called home.
Tim’s life was a testimony to the love of his Savior, and his greatest legacy is the faith and love he leaves in the hearts of his family.
Celebration of Tim’s Life will be held at 11:00a.m. Friday October 23, 2026 at the Grace Baptist Church in Manhattan.
Interment will be held in the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
The family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Tim to the Grace Baptist Church or the Alzheimers Association. Contributions may be may to those organizations and sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avneue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com
Robert E. Hetzler (Posted 10/13/2026)
Robert E. Hetzler, age 101, died Saturday October 10, 2026, at Stoneybrook Retirement Community, Manhattan, Kansas.
He was born on December 7, 1924, in Onaga, Kansas, the son of Bernard and Olga (Wegner) Hetzler. Robert graduated high school and joined the US Army Airforce in November 1943. He served one and a half years in Italy during World War II as a Tech Sargent with the 15th Air Force, 97th Bomber group.
He was united in marriage to Esther (Bingham) Hetzler on August 2, 1946, at St. Lukes Lutheran church in Manhattan, Kansas. They were the proud parents of four sons: Steve, Philip, Bruce, and Curtis.
In addition to serving his country, Robert drove semi-trucks and later retired from the US Postal Service in 1980. He and Esther loved to travel in their pickup and fifth wheel camper, spending eighteen seasons in Mission, Texas.
They belonged to the Manhattan, Kansas Camping Club and Wagon Wheel Whirley Square Dancing Club.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, three brothers (Harold, Edgar, and Bill Hetzler), sons (Steve and Bruce Hetzler), and grandson (Hunter Hetzler).
Survivors include his children: Philip and Linda (McCaslin) Hetzler of Manhattan, Ks, Curtis and Nanette Hetzler of Stanton, Ne, Nancy (Steve) Hetzler Westmoreland, Ks; six grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Ruthe Pattison of Grand Island, Ne.
The family will greet friends during a visitation on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 5:30-7 p.m. at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.
Memorial service will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Michael J. Schmidt officiating. Private inurnment will be held at the Valley View Memorial Park in Manhattan.
In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorials in memory of Bob to be given to charity of your choice. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502. Ymlfuneralhome.com
Steven James Pralle (Posted 10/12/2026)
Steven James Pralle, age 67 of Randolph, Kansas, passed away Monday, October 5, 2026, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.
He was born on February 6, 1959, in Hanover, Kansas, the son of Raymond Carl and Adelia Marie (Stolte) Pralle. He attended Trinity Lutheran School in rural Washington county and proudly graduated with the Hanover High School Class of 1977.
On May 20, 1989, Steve married Mary Michelle Jandera at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Hanover. Together, they celebrated 37 years of marriage building a life filled with family and countless memories. They worked, raised their family, supported one another, celebrated the good times, weathered the difficult ones, and found plenty of reasons to laugh along the way.
Their life together was made up of the little things that became the memories that mattered most—going to auctions, sitting on the front porch, attending Saturday mass, enjoying weekend breakfasts at local restaurants, working around the house and yard, and simply being together at the end of the day.
After the sudden passing of Michelle’s father, Steve’s love for the family’s cattle operation only grew stronger. He always looked forward to a Friday trip to the feedlot and sale barn with Michelle’s grandfather for a piece of homemade peanut butter pie.
Steve was a hardworking man who was never afraid to roll up his sleeves and get the job done. Throughout his life, he worked many jobs. Among those jobs was operating equipment for the Union Pacific Railroad for seven years and the Kansas Department of Transportation for 27 years. Steve’s greatest joy was his many years spent behind the wheel of a Peterbilt truck at Jim Landoll Truckline in Marysville, Kansas and Weaver Construction in Barnes, Kansas.
Outside of work, he served on the USD 384 Blue Valley-Randolph School Board, giving his time and energy to support the education and future of local children. He was also Charter Commander and a 36-year member of the Sons of the American Legion in Hanover, proudly honoring and supporting veterans and the values of service and community.
Steve found joy in the simple things in life. He loved spending time in his garden, tinkering in the garage, shining his Chevrolet truck, cheering on the Green Bay Packers and K-State Wildcats, and being his daughters’ #1 fan. He also took great pride in keeping his yard looking its best and could often be found on his John Deere lawnmower. Steve had a special place in his heart for his granddogs, Baler, Cassie, and Rake. They are a cherished part of the family and will surely miss him.
The truck is parked, and the mower is finally quiet. Steve’s last trip may be over, but the road he traveled and the memories he made along the way will stay with his family and friends forever.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, his parents-in-law, Robert and Joyce Jandera, and two sisters-in-law, Ruth Pralle and Elizabeth Ann Meier.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle of Randolph, his two daughters: Hannah and Eli Sheppard of Westmoreland, and Katie and Jacob Milton of St. John, his three brothers and their spouses: Allen Pralle of Hanover, Larry and Kathy Pralle of Bremen, and Rick and Ellen Pralle of Bremen, his brothers-in-law, Michael Meier of Hanover and Robert Jandera II of Houston, Texas, his sister-in-law and her spouse: Robin and Allen Elsasser of McPherson, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home. The family will receive friends before the Rosary from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 15, 2026, at the St. Columbkille Catholic Church in Blaine, Kansas with Father Anthony Chendumalli as Celebrant. Burial will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
A memorial has been established for the Steven Pralle Memorial, to be determined at a later date. Contributions may be 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.
Sandra Kay Johnson (Posted 10/12/2026)
Sandra Kay Johnson, age 69 of Green, passed away Thursday, October 8, 2026, at her home, surrounded by family.
She was born on August 28, 1957, in Topeka, the daughter of Phillip Sherman and Delphia Jane (Klocke) Cook and graduated from Blue Valley High School.
On September 20, 1975, at the Fancy Creek Zion Church, she married Stanley Harold Johnson. To this union, they had three children.
Early in her working career, she was an underwriter for Farm Bureau Insurance Company. She was also a farm wife, helping her husband tending to livestock as well as helping move from field to field. Sandy was a member of the Alert Covenant Church and was involved in many church activities and groups. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, attending as many of their activities as possible. Her grandkids were her pride and joy and she loved to spoil them.
Sandy was a season ticket holder and enjoyed attending K-State football and women’s basketball games. Another one of her favorite teams she enjoyed watching was the Kansas City Chiefs. She loved spending time tending to her flowers, shopping, and decorating the house for all the holidays throughout the year.
She is survived by her husband, Stan Johnson of Green; three children, Matthew Johnson of Tonganoxie, Heather Hughes of Erie, Colorado, and Seth Johnson and wife Traci of Green; her parents, Phil and Delphia Cook of Green; one sister, Pamela Cook and husband Raul Amezquita of Evanston, Illinois; one brother, Jeff Cook and wife Amanda of Barnes, and six grandchildren, Adlen Johnson, Easton Breault, River Breault, Atticus Breault, Lennon Breault, and Canaan Johnson.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 pm Thursday, October 15, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Friday, October 16, 2026, at the Alert Covenant Church with Pastor Dwight Diller officiating. Burial will be in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Alert Covenant 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.
Nancy Trautwein (Posted 10/9/2026)
Nancy Trautwein, age 77, of Manhattan, passed away September 25, 2026, at The Kansas University Health System – St. Francis Campus in Topeka.
She was born on December 22, 1948, in Manhattan, the daughter of Willie and Nellie Mae (Parks) Wege. She grew up in the Olsburg area and graduated from Blue Valley High School with the class of 1966.
She was married to Bruce Trautwein on November 1, 1968, in Olsburg. He preceded her in death on March 7, 2008.
Nancy worked for 37 years for Kansas Farm Bureau until she retired in 2003.
Nancy is survived by her many family members and friends.
A graveside service will be held on Friday October 23, 2026, at 3:00p.m. at the Greenwood Cemetery in Clay Center, Kansas.
Memorial contributions in memory of Nancy are suggested to Olsburg Pride. Check may be made to Olsburg Pride and sent in care of Tami Howland, Union State Bank, 204 E Hwy 16 Olsburg, KS 66520.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502 is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuenralhome.com
Robert “Bob” Cerbe (Posted 10/08/2026)
Robert “Bob” Cerbe, 74, passed away on October 3, 2026, at Stormont Vail in Topeka, Kansas, surrounded by family. Bob was born on July 26, 1952, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to William and Teresa Cerbe.
On December 15, 1979, Bob married Sue Ann McMullen. Together, they raised their boys, Al and Dennis, and over the years lived in Las Vegas, Illinois, and Mississippi.
Bob lived a life full of different pursuits and was never afraid to try something new. He worked as a poker room manager and horse trainer, boxed under the name of Jack Alvarez and was an entrepreneur at heart. He also had a passion for drag racing and earned a championship on the Las Vegas circuit, with his dad serving as his mechanic. Bob was always finding his next project, idea, or adventure.
In his free time, Bob enjoyed building and painting model cars, watching football, NASCAR, and golf. He was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan and a longtime lover of Mountain Dew. When you think of Bob, crack open a Mountain Dew and have one in his honor.
One of Bob’s greatest joys was being “Pops” to his grandchildren – Adeline, Asher, and Ainslee. He was never too old to get down on the floor and play with them, and he loved teaching them silly words and songs that are sure to be repeated – and laughed about – for years to come. The memories they made with their Pops will be a special part of his legacy.
Bob is survived by his wife, Sue; his children, Al (Danielle) Cerbe, Dennis Cerbe, and Lori Helminger; his grandchildren, Adeline, Asher, and Ainslee Cerbe; and his siblings, Betty Kumbera, Susie (Lee) Gusho, and Willie (Lisa) Cerbe; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Teresa Cerbe; and his brother-in-law, Terry Kumbera.
A visitation will be held Thursday, October 15, from 6:00-7:30 pm at Crestview Christian Church (3940 Excel Rd) in Manhattan, Kansas. Services will be held at a later date in Wisconsin.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Bob Cerbe Memorial Fund (Make checks to Sue Cerbe).
Bob’s life took him many places and through many adventures, but the family he built will remain his greatest legacy.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Aveune, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com