Dylan Joseph Higgins (Posted 8/19/2026)
Dylan Joseph Higgins, 17, of Wamego, Kansas, left us far too soon on September 13, 2026. He was born on October 6, 2008, in Manhattan, Kansas, to Chelsi Sterling and Robert Higgins.
Dylan was larger than life, with an outgoing and animated personality. He danced his way through our world everywhere he went and could talk his mom into anything he wanted. He was a friend to many and deeply adored. He cherished his time with his friends, loved them fiercely, and was always eager to get to them as soon as he could. There isn’t a story they tell without his goofy, carefree spirit shining brightly.
He loved to torment his sisters; it brought him great joy, and they gave it right back. But if anyone tried to mess with them, he was quickly by their sides, ready to defend them.
Dylan could play any sport with ease. He particularly enjoyed golf and excelled in football. He loved the outdoors and everything it had to offer. He could learn any job he was tasked with and enjoyed tinkering in the garage with his stepdad, sharing long talks about life, music, and whatever was in their hearts. He loved learning new things and eagerly taught himself whatever he wanted to know, especially when fixing something he had broken.
He was an excellent student and so intelligent. What he couldn’t pull off on his own, he could finesse from his teachers. His cousins remember him fondly as a favorite playmate, best friend, and ornery jokester who enjoyed getting a rise out of his sisters and other cousins whenever he could. They remember him playing video games, going swimming, and bouncing around all over the place. His family holds on to memories of his sweet nature and playful attitude, always reassuring them, “It’s chill, it’s chill.”
Dylan was proud to begin training as a volunteer firefighter with the Louisville Fire Department. His family watched him grow into a curious, headstrong, driven young man who could not wait to get out into the world and start his legacy.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Joe Lynch; his grandparents, Bill and Cheryl Barnett; his grandfather, Jimmy Good; his great-uncle, Bob Bartholic; his aunt, Tracie Dingemanse; his cousin, Brandie Max; and all of his loving great-grandparents.
Dylan leaves behind his mother and stepfather, Chelsi and Robert Sterling of Wamego; his father, Robert Higgins (Anna Tracy) of Salina; and his sisters, Kayden Higgins (Matthew Dye) of Newton and Savannah Sterling of Wamego.
He is also survived by his grandparents, Michelle Ciesilski (Bret) of Canton, Tammy Higgins (Ron Jellema) of Ogden, Cindy Smith of Manhattan, and Alba Higgins (Sandy) of Plevna, Montana.
His surviving great-aunts and great-uncles include Tina Bartholic (Rebob) of Ogden, Denise Lamb (Tim) of Lee’s Summit, Jacque Hodge (Alan) of Florida, Tom Linderman (Elizabeth) of Colorado, and Tim Linderman (Mary) of Missouri.
His surviving aunts and uncles include Kathy Deutsch (Rick) of Manhattan, Kim Beyer (Terry) of Manhattan, Catherine Feldt (Lloyd) of Monroe, Iowa, Joetta Glessner (Mike) of Manhattan, Leslie Dugan (Joe) of Wamego, and Maurice Dingemanse of Manhattan.
He is also survived by an abundance of beloved first, second, and third cousins.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday morning (September 23, 2026) at 10:30 at Trinity Baptist Church in Wamego with Pastor Jol Klein officiating. Private burial will be at a later date
Visitation will be Tuesday evening (September 22, 2026) from 4:00 to 7:00 at Trinity Baptist Church in Wamego.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Dylan Higgins Memorial Fund. Please make checks payable to Dylan Higgins Memorial Fund and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547
Carol Jean (Ebert) Pitney (Posted 9/18/2026)
Carol Jean (Ebert) Pitney, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend passed away Sunday, September 13 th , 2026 at Good Shepherd Hospice House, Manhattan, Kansas. She was born on October 12, 1939 to Emil “Butch” and Dorothy (Beard) Ebert at Genn Hospital, Wamego, Kansas.
She was raised on the farm and preferred being outdoors with her twin brother doing farm chores or riding horses (in her words, she was a tomboy). Known by the locals, she was one of a set of twins –Carl and Carol (aka Carlie and Carolie). She attended St. Bernard Grade School and graduated from Wamego High School in 1958. She married Jerome (Jerry) Pitney in December, 1958, later divorcing in 1996.
She was an active member of St. Bernard Catholic Church. Taking communion to the homebound was one of the ministries she enjoyed the most but for health reasons was forced to retire from this ministry and other church ministries.
Her first job was working as an aid at Genn Hospital. She worked side-by-side with Jerry in the Pitney Auction Service. She also worked 20 plus years as a dental assistant for Dr. Bill Ditto at Wamego Dental Center where she truly enjoyed interacting with the patients. After retiring from the dental office, she became a certified CNA and Home Health Aid and worked for Big Lakes Development Center for 8 years and then did Home Health Care in the Wamego and Manhattan Area.
She enjoyed traveling with her grandson via train to New Mexico; with her prayer partners to Medjugorje and Rome, charismatic retreats and other exciting places. One of the highlights of her life was tandem skydiving on her 70 th birthday. She loved sports and enjoyed attending the boys’ activities when they were in school and watching them in their wrestling meets (they were intense to watch but she soon became a fan). She also enjoyed K-State Women’s Basketball where she held season tickets and watching Chiefs football on TV. Family was very important to her and she hosted many family reunions, Fourth of July and other celebrations.
She was preceded in death by her parents, infant daughter, Deanna Louise, twin brother, Carl Ebert, brother, Jim and sister-in-law, Evelyn Ebert.
She is survived by three sons, Jerome (Neoma) Pitney, Fredericksburg, TX; Russell (Wanda) Pitney, Abilene, KS and Rodney (Pam) Pitney, Alma, KS; grandchildren, Brandy (Andy) Braun, Alexandria, LA; Sophia (Avery) Simecka, Overland Park, KS and Eli Pitney, Talmage, KS; great-grandchildren, Jynger Woodward, Mason, Dallas & Cody Braun, Madeline & Chloe Simecka; brother, Tom (Fran) Ebert, Wamego, KS and numerous other relatives.
She will be greatly missed but her love will live on in the family she loved so much.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday morning (September 24, 2026) at 10:30 at St. Bernard Catholic Church with Fr. Mike Peterson officiating.
Visitation will be Wednesday evening (September 23, 2026) from 5:00 to 7:00 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.
A Rosary Service will be will be Wednesday evening (September 23, 2026) at 7:00 at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Bernard Catholic Church or the Good Shepherd Hospice House of Manhattan. 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
Nyla Mae Zerbe (Posted 9/16/2026)
Nyla Mae Zerbe, 92, of rural Wamego, Kansas, passed away Monday, September 14, 2026, at the Valley Vista Good Samaritan Center. She was a life-long resident of the area.
Nyla was born January 25, 1934, in Wamego, Kansas, the daughter of Frank H. and Leona (Wille) Bandel. She attended local grade school and graduated from Alma High School in 1952. She married Kenneth S. Zerbe on November 8, 1958, in Alma. They shared forty-eight years together, working their farm and raising their family. Kenneth preceded Nyla in death on June 13, 2007.
Nyla and Ken moved in 1962 to their farm located south of Wamego. From there, Nyla was a homemaker and farm wife. For many years, she was also a cook for the Wamego school system. Nyla was a member of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Wamego and active member of LWML. She enjoyed cross stitching, needle point, sewing and quilting. Nyla also was a regular volunteer helping deliver Meals on Wheels. Her family was precious to her and in her later years, family game night was regularly held at her home.
Nyla is survived by her sons; Kirk Zerbe (Patricia), rural Belvue, Kansas, Jerry Zerbe (Cheryl), College Station, Texas, David Zerbe, Atlanta, Georgia, and Donald Zerbe (Teresa), Wamego, Kansas. She is also survived by her grandchildren; Kyle Zerbe, Belvue, Kansas, Kevin Zerbe (Mikaela), Wamego, Kansas, Keith Zerbe (Jayla), Belvue, Kansas, Hank Zerbe (Jessica Milter), Atlanta, Georgia, Brogan Zerbe, Burlingame, Kansas, Jackson Zerbe, Rolla, Missouri, and Caroline Zerbe (Hunter VandeKamp), Dallas, Texas; her great-granddaughter, Rosalyn and a granddaughter soon to arrive, and a brother-in-law, Darrell Craghead. Nyla was preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings, Lawrence Bandel and Lola Craghead and daughter-in-law, Doris Zerbe.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Friday, September 25, 2026, at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Wamego. Reverend Jim Price will be officiating. Burial will follow at Wabaunsee Cemetery. The family will greet friends on Thursday from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home. They suggest memorial contributions to Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church or Elara Care Hospice, and those may be sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.
Larry Leon Moon (Posted 9/12/2026)
Larry Leon Moon, age 86, of Manhattan, passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Home of the Flint Hills in St. George, Kansas. He was born on January 23, 1940, in Denver, Colorado, the only son of Esther Cook of De Soto, Kansas.
On August 6, 1961, he married Sherry B. Samuelson in De Soto.
A gifted craftsman and the ultimate mechanic, Larry could build nearly anything. Largely self‑taught, with additional studies at Ottawa University and Kansas State University, he constructed two homes and restored numerous antique cars, motorcycles, and airplanes. He also custom‑built train rail cars, aircraft, and many other projects too numerous to list.
After relocating to Manhattan, he worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the construction of the Tuttle Creek Dam, served as a mechanic at Calahan’s Motorcycle Shop, and later worked on import vehicles at Key Pontiac (later Elkins Motors). He retired in 2006 after selling his own business, AutoCraft in Manhattan.
Larry and Sherry built a home at Lake Elbo, where he taught his daughters to ride motorcycles. Together with extended family and friends, they created lasting memories of water‑skiing, swimming, and the occasional appearance of the “moss monster.”
He enjoyed traveling across the globe—from Alaska and Russia to Australia—and was always in search of his next adventure or project.
He was preceded in death by his wife in January 2019, his mother, and his sister, Cynthia Cross.
He is survived by his daughters: Dawn Musil (Zdenek) of Manhattan, Angela Banks of Nortonville, and Kelli Lackey (Dylan) of Manhattan; his grandchildren Joshua, Eric, Kyle, Zachary, Isaac, Ethan, Jodi, and Clara; and his great‑grandchildren Amelia, Aliyah, Kaylyn, Kameron, Leo, Aurora, and Eleanor.
The family will greet friends during a visitation from 3:00 until 5:00p.m. Sunday September 20, 2026 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00a.m. Monday September 21, 2026 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Devin Wendt officiating. Interment will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502 is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com
Mary Lou Edwards Gibbs (Posted 9/10/2026)
Mary Lou was born October 11, 1929 in Emporia, Kansas the daughter of Richard and Louise (Deputy) Edwards. She graduated from Emporia High School in 1947 and Kansas State University in 1952. While at KSU, Mary Lou was an International Farm Youth Exchange Student to United Kingdom in 1950. Mary Lou and her brothers attended KSU together. The three of them operated a dairy farm to help the family financially, milking the cows daily before and after classes. The dairy was purchased by their father and was located on Lake Elbo Road. At KSU, Mary Lou received a B.S. in Home Economics and was a member of Clovia, a residential 4-H scholarship house.
Mary Lou and her entire family were active 4-H-ers, even during their collegiate years. Continuing in her professional life, Mary Lou worked tirelessly for 30 years as an Extension Home Economist in Greenwood County and later Pottawatomie County. Mary Lou retired in 1995. She was a member of the National Association of Extension Home Economists, Epsilon Sigma Pi Extension Association, and the National Association of Retired Federal Employees.
Mary Lou was a very active community member. In addition to her work in Extension and 4-H, she belonged to the Olsburg Lutheran Church and served on the church council. She was the treasurer of the Pottawatomie-Waubansee Regional Library and she was a member of the Olsburg Family and Community Education.
Mary Lou married Patrick Lee Gibbs on September 20, 1953. They had 3 children, Rick Gibbs (Jane, deceased), Susan Jenkins (Jim), and Kelly Gillespie (Gary) all of Olsburg. She has eight grandchildren, Richard Gibbs, Ryan Gibbs, Jeana Poulter, Aaron Jenkins, Ruby Jenkins, Travis Gillespie and Jennifer Hummel. She was also the proud grandmother of numerous great and great great-grandchildren. Mary Lou is survived by her brother Bob Edwards (Westmoreland) and her sister Mardy Herbster (Sabetha), as well as many nieces and nephews. Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Bill.
Cremation is planned with a memorial service at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan with Pastor Keith Weins, officiating on September 23 at 1:00p.m..
Interment will be a private ceremony at a later date in Olsburg Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to either the Pottawatomie County 4-H Foundation or the Olsburg Lutheran Church sent in care of Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.
Carol Lynn Eichman (Posted 9/10/2026)
Carol Lynn Eichman, 83, of Flush died September 8, 2026 in Wamego, KS. She was the second daughter born to Walter and Thelma Kennedy, in Manhattan, KS on November 4, 1942. Carol grew up in Manhattan where she lived on Pierre St, across from Roosevelt Grade School. Her grade school years were spent at Theodore Roosevelt; 7th through 9th grades she attended what was then called the “Junior High School” located on Poyntz Avenue, and she graduated from Manhattan High School with the class of 1961.
Following a high school friend, Sheila Heskett, to the Chicago area in 1963, she worked as an administrative secretarial assistant in Catering and Convention & Sales, as well as the executive offices of the Conrad Hilton and the Executive House Hotels. She also worked for a number of years in the field of advertising. She loved working with people and always believed that personal customer service was one of the most important aspects to the success of any business.
Carol returned from Chicago to Manhattan in 1976 and in 1977 she purchased a house next to the Olsburg grade school, and she and her mother moved from Manhattan to Olsburg, where she said “we took care of each other”. Upon her return to Manhattan in 1976 she became employed at Kansas State University, first in the Division of Continuing Education, and then in the College of Architecture, Planning, and Design, working for a number of years in what was previously the freshman/sophomore Department of Environmental Design in APD, and later serving on the administrative staff of the dean’s office. Carol’s greatest enjoyment during her years at K-State came from working with many students, faculty, and staff. Along with several other K-State employees, she helped organize the first clerical bargaining unit for civil service clerical and office employees in the state of Kansas. She retired from K-State after 25 years of service in January of 2002.
In 1985 Carol was introduced to the man she called “The nicest guy on the face of the earth”, her “little honey”, Emil Eichman of Flush. She and Emil were married June 24, 1989 at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Flush. They made their home in rural Flush and celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary on June 24, 2021.
Carol was a member of the Saint Joseph Catholic Church, and she and Emil sang for many years in the choir. She was a member of the Saint Joseph Altar Society, the Westmoreland Classy Sassy Sisters chapter of the Red Hat Society, the Cherished Doll Club of Topeka, and the International Federation of Doll Clubs. She described herself as an avid collector of all things “sparkly”, often saying that her whole world always revolved around color, beginning with her very first box of crayons as a child. Her love of color was reflected throughout her home, her clothing, the jewelry she both collected and designed, and in the interior environmental arrangements and table decorations she provided for various functions at Saint Joseph Church and Hall in Flush.
She moved to Valley Vista nursing home of Wamego, in December of 2022. She was known throughout the home for her colorful tie-dyed t-shirts and her joyful teasing spirit. She made many lasting friends and enjoyed all who worked there and took such wonderful care of her.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Emil in 2022, her father in 1974; her sister, Nyla, in 1976; her mother in 1983; her brother, Jay, in 2025; as well as a sister-in-law, Alice Gereau; brothers-in-law, Delbert Eichman, Jim Eichman, and Lee Hunt.
She is survived by her sister, Ann Burkland, and her husband, Harold Burkland, of Wamego; her sisters-in-law, Mildred Eichman of Flush, Carol Ann Eichman of Wamego, and Margaret Hunt of Colorado; her brother-in-law, Ed Gereau of Wamego; many beloved nieces and nephews, including those who came into her life through both family and marriage; and many extended family members and dear friends who were an important part of her life.
A Rosary Service will be Friday morning (September 11, 2026) at 11:00 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Flush with Fr. Nick Blaha officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.
The family will meet with friends on Friday morning (September 11, 2026) from 10:00 until the time of the Rosary Service at 11:00 at the church.
Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.
Richard V. Hill Sr. (Posted 9/9/2026)
Richard V. Hill Sr, age 87, of Wamego and formerly of St. George, passed away August 31, 2026, at the Good Samaritan Society Retirement Community in Wamego.
Richard was born on September 3, 1938, in Paynesville, Ohio, the son of Lawrence and Sarah (Pekkanen) Hill. His mother passed away when he was 6, along with his dad he was raised by his step-mother Lilian. He attended schools in Centerville, Pennsylvania and graduated from Centerville High School with the class of 1956.
On November 15, 1960, in Centerville, Pennsylvania, Richard was united in marriage to Frances Watson. The union was blessed with two children: Richard Jr. and Kimberly.
Richard served in the US Army Reserves and then entered the US Army and served in Vietnam from 1966 until 1967. After his retirement from the army, Richard earned his bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University in Horticulture. He worked for many years in the KSU greenhouses and on Fort Riley.
He was proud of his service time to his country and being a career military man. He was a member of the Eagles Lodge in Manhattan and was a past president. In 2021 he was part of the Kansas Honor Flight from Wamego.
Richard was preceded in death by his wife Frances and his daughter Kimberly.
He is survived by his son Richard Hill Jr. of Cummings, Kansas, and his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Graveside services with full military honors will be held on Friday September 18, 2026 at 1:00p.m. at the St. George Cemetery in St. George, Kansas.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Richard to the Kansas Honor Flight. 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
Nora Jean Lietz (Posted 9/8/2026)
Nora Jean Lietz, age 98, of Paxico, Kansas, passed into the arms of Jesus on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
She was born May 28, 1928, to Frank and Emma (Richter) Gehrt in rural Alma, Kansas. Nora was baptized June 24, 1928, and confirmed on April 26, 1941, at Trinity Lutheran Church in McFarland. She attended the local Hinerville Grade School and graduated from Alma High School in 1945. She attended Clark’s Business College in Topeka and worked for a short time for the League of Kansas Municipalities and Topeka State Bank.
She was married to Merle Lietz on May 2, 1948, at Trinity Lutheran Church in McFarland, Kansas, where they were active members all their lives. Nora and Merle owned Lietz Construction Company for more than 70 years. She served as the bookkeeper and secretary of the business. They spent their entire married life in the same home on Vera Road east of Paxico. They were blessed with 71 years together.
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Norie, as she was known, was active in the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League and served in various offices at the local, zone and district levels. She was a Sunday school teacher as well as a VBS teacher and superintendent. She also served as the funeral dinner chairman at Trinity. Nora and Merle were active in the Lutheran Laymen’s League for many years as she supported Merle who served as an officer in various roles. They traveled to 48 consecutive International LLL Conventions at various states in the USA and Canada, making that their annual vacation. They considered those years some of the best of their lives and made lasting friendships. Nora was a 4-H club leader for 10 years as well as the sewing leader for Maple Hill Hustlers 4-H. She was a 50-year charter member of Vera Extension Homemakers Unit which later became known as the Vera Roadsters. She always enjoyed their activities, and they finished each one with an ice cream treat. She was also a member of Gideon International and the Flint Hills Gideon Auxiliary.
Nora and Merle were blessed with three daughters, Sheryl (David) Meier, Maple Hill; Jean Anne Lietz, Topeka; and Linda (Tom) Stanton of Hutchinson. She is also survived by grandchildren: Cara (John) Brooks, Carisa Meier, Peter (Megan) Meier, Mendy (Jason) Brady, Rebecca (Jared) Wolfe, Nathan (Autumn) Stanton; great-grandchildren: Kylie (Jakob) Jasperson, Joshua Brooks, Liam Meier, Brecklyn Meier, Makayla Brady, Mason Brady, Walker Stanton, Hayden Stanton, Logan VanMeter, and soon to arrive Baby Stanton. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Norman, Art and Hank Gehrt and her sister, Bernice Gehrt, and grandson Curtis Meier.
Family was very special to Nora, and she loved to host family gatherings and holidays, as well as community and church dinners. All of these were memorable occasions for her as she used her gift of hospitality.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Monday, September 14, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church in McFarland, Kansas. Reverend Robert Grimm will be officiating. The family will greet friends at a visitation prior to the service beginning at 10:00 am. A lunch will follow the service, and burial will be held at 1:30 pm at Bethlehem Cemetery, east of Paxico on Snokomo Road. Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, McFarland or Lutheran Hour Ministries and may be sent in care of Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.
Henry Brown (Posted 9/7/26)
Henry Brown, age 74, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on September 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on July 30, 1952, in Okahumpka, Florida, the son of Christine Key and Leroy Brown. He grew up in Rochester, New York, where he graduated from Jefferson High School. Henry and his wife, Lillian, were married on May 24, 1974.
Henry proudly served his country in the United States Army for 22 years, retiring after a distinguished career that culminated in his service as a First Sergeant. A dedicated veteran, he served during both Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. After his military service, he settled with his family in Manhattan, Kansas, where he worked for USD 383, Kansas State University, and Big Lakes Developmental Center as Transportation and Safety Manager. In retirement, he continued his commitment to helping others by teaching Red Cross First Aid and CPR classes for KSU’s University for Man.
An avid outdoorsman and social soul, Henry loved fishing and playing spades and dominoes with friends and family. His amiable personality and warm spirit made a lasting impression on everyone he met throughout the Manhattan community.
He is survived by Lillian, his beloved wife of 52 years; his children, Derick Brown, Windy and Patrick Hancock, and Marc and Tylesha Brown; his grandchildren, Nathaniel, Marc Jr., Shaun, Brenden, Xavier, Mya, Malaysia, and Autumn; and his great-grandchild, Kehlani. He is also survived by his siblings, Annie Brown, Wilbur Russell, and Gwen Russell. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Leroy Brown, Jesse Brown, Ernest Russell, and Doris Russell.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, September 10, 2026. Funeral Service will take place on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 10:00 AM, both at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Burial will follow at the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery at Fort Riley/Manhattan, with full Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org. and/or may be sent in care of 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
Donna Hawkins (Posted 9/7/26)
Donna Sue Hawkins, age 70 of Manhattan, passed away Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.
She was born on April 11, 1956, in Manhattan, the daughter of Lorraine and Helene (Oetinger) Pritchard.
Donna married Mike Hawkins in 1990. Donna and Mike shared two children, Kenton and Bryan. Mike preceded her in death in 2020.
Donna and Mike enjoyed many trips to Cozumel, Mexico during the summers. While in Cozumel, they enjoyed snorkeling, beach-front restaurants, collecting sea shells, and taking the ferry over to Cancun to explore. During the winter, they traveled to many K-State bowl games. Donna also attended Trinity Presbyterian Church.
Donna taught English & Women’s Literature at Rock Creek High School. She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed reading Stephen King.
She is survived by her sons: Kenton Howell of Manhattan and Bryan Howell of Grandview Plaza, and by her brother Larry Pritchard of Leonardville.
Memorial services will be held at 1:30pm, Wednesday, September 9th, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Leonardville City Cemetery.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
Kathy Weaver (Posted 9/7/26)
Kathy Louise Weaver, age 80 of Riley, passed away Friday, September 4, 2026, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan.
She was born on July 6, 1946, in St. Joseph, Missouri, the daughter of Wilbur and Edith Purvis.
On June 2, 1967, she married Roger Weaver and they had a daughter, Jennifer. They later divorced.
Kathy worked for the Department of Children and Families as an income maintenance worker. She was a member of the Riley United Methodist Church, United Women in Faith, and served as the church organist. She was a volunteer for Kansas Guardianship for 22 years and Purple Paws Animal Welfare Society in Manhattan since 2020.
She loved animals, which eventually lead her to fostering and working with PPAWS. Some of her hobbies included cross-stitch, crossword puzzles, reading, and playing the piano and organ. Her favorite music to listen to was classical or Christian music. Of course, she had to include Elvis and her favorite, Kenny Rogers. She was the organist for the church for many years, and that was a pure enjoyment for her.
She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Weaver of Leavenworth; one brother, John Purvis and wife Andrea of Mound City; four sisters, Mary Jones and husband Tom of Cottonwood Falls, Laura Burnett and husband Steve of Wamego, Alice Purvis of Fredonia, and Evonne Joyal and husband Jim of Olathe, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, David Purvis.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Friday, September 11, 2026, at the Riley United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 pm Thursday at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Riley Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Riley United Methodist Church or Purple Power Animal Welfare Society (PPAWS) 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.
Dennis Rae Wendt (Posted 9/3/2026)
Dennis Rae Wendt passed away on September 2, 2026 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, Kansas with his family by his side following an unfortunate fall, broken hip, and surgery that he wasn’t able to recover from.
Dennis was born July 26, 1946, in Herington, Kansas, the fourth child of Clarence and Dora Wendt. Dennis married his high school sweetheart, Mary Carolyn Hailey on November 26, 1966. Dennis and Mary had three children and were married for almost 60 years. Herington was his primary residence until he and Mary moved to Manhattan, Kansas in 2024 to be closer to family.
He graduated from Centre High School with the class of 1965. Joined the United States Air Force in November 1965 serving until February 1969. Dennis was a Sergeant and a Fuel Specialist. He served his country in the Vietnam War. He was awarded an Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
As a career, Dennis worked for the Rock Island, Katy, and the Union Pacific Railroads out of Herington and Wichita. He retired from the UP in 2005.
Dennis was a life-long member of the First Baptist Church in Herington where he served as a deacon. He attended Crestview Christian Church in Manhattan. A quote Dennis was often heard reciting to others was “God said it, I believe it, that settles it.” As a young man he enjoyed fishing, and throughout his life he enjoyed automobiles, drag racing, and bluegrass music.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Nola Mae Hegle, brother-in-law Weldon Hegle, and sister-in-law Betty Wendt. He is survived by his wife Mary Wendt, of the home and by his brother, Ronald Wendt, Nebo, Illinois, and sister, Suzan Hawkes, Herington, Kansas.
Dennis and Mary have three children, Dawn Bailey (Tim), Wamego, Kansas, Devin Wendt (April), Manhattan, Kansas and Darren Wendt, Manhattan, Kansas. They have four grandchildren Zachary Bailey, Emma Hansen (Kaleb), Tyler Bailey, and Ruby Wendt. Dennis also had several nieces and nephews he enjoyed relationships with through the years.
Unfortunately, Dennis will miss the opportunity to participate in Tyler and his fiancée Abby’s wedding in October and greet his first great-grand baby of Emma and Kaleb Hansen in November, both of which he was looking forward to.
A celebration of life service will be held at Crestview Christian Church, 3940 Excel Road, Manhattan, KS 66502 at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 6, 2026.
Memorials in honor of Dennis may be made to the Crestview Christian Church Missions Fund, 3940 Excel Road, Manhattan, KS 66502.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com
Jeannelle Ann Fink (Posted 9/3/2026)
Jeannelle Ann Fink, 72, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on Friday (August 21, 2026) at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, where she had earned her nursing degree and worked nights for over forty years.
The only child of deceased Wabaunsee County ranchers Marguerite (Thierer) and Freddie Fink III, when she retired Jeannelle took over the family business.
She enjoyed Alma/Wabaunsee High School and Stormont Vail reunions, her beloved cats, and vacationing “at home” on the farm and taking her mother to St. John Lutheran Church.
Cremation arrangements are in the care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Alma.
Survivors include cousins Janice Salazar; Kirk, Brett, Todd Fink; and close friends Diana Kuhn, Chris and Stacy Wisneski, LaNelle Oney, Ann Birney, Amicks, and the Volland community.
She was preceded in death by cousins Larry Fink, Larry Thierer, and Joyce Thierer.
Graveside inurnment will be 10:30 AM Saturday, September 12 th at St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Alma. This will be followed by lunch, visiting, and sharing stories in the Volland Gallery at 24098 Volland Rd.
Memorial contributions are suggested to The Volland Foundation 24098 Volland Road, Alma, KS 66401 or Wab Co Cat Snips 321 E 6th St, Alms, KS 66401
Lavona Charlotte (Cline) Harding (Posted 9/3/2026)
Lavona Charlotte (Cline) Harding was born at Fay, Oklahoma, to Leslie Harold Cline and Arvilla Lorene (Baker) Cline, and passed away at the age of 88.
Lavona grew up on the farm and graduated from Oakwood High School. After graduating, she attended Draughon’s School of Business. Lavona was very musically talented; she enjoyed square dance, and she was self-taught to play piano, accordion, and the guitar. At one point, she played the bass fiddle for the Cliff & Smiley Square Dance Band.
Lavona worked for Standard Life Insurance in Oklahoma City for 5 years before transferring to their location in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she worked for 14 years. She also worked part time at the University of Nebraska for 10 years. She met Daniel E. Harding while he was working as an insurance adjuster for Standard Life Insurance and the two later moved to Clay Center, Kansas. They were married on June 10, 1965, in Ottawa, Kansas.
In October of 2021, Lavona moved to Watonga to be closer to the family.
She is survived by her sister, Velta Quintle and husband Edward of Watonga, Oklahoma; her brother, Dwane Cline of Watonga, Oklahoma; two step children, Danette Miller and Kevin Harding, as well as numerous other nieces, nephews, and friends.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 pm Tuesday, September 8, 2026, in the Riley Cemetery. The Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home is in charge of graveside arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Lavona’s memory to a charity of one’s choice. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
John Wendell Eggerman (Posted 9/3/2026)
John Wendell Eggerman, age 98, passed away on August 28, 2026, at Clay Center Medical Center. He was born in Clay Center, KS, the son of John Frederick Eggerman and Emma (Larson) Eggerman.
On May 1, 1949, he married Helen J. Morton of Green. She preceded him in death in 1994. They had three children: Ronda (Eggerman) Nelson, Jeffrey Eggerman, and Jim Eggerman. He later married Lois Lippert Eggerman in 2002 and lived in Clay Center while farming in Riley and Clay Counties.
Wendell grew up in the May Day neighborhood, where he attended Star School, a one-room school, and graduated with honors from Randolph High School in 1945. He played trumpet in the Winkler Community Band throughout high school and college.
He attended Kansas State University, where he studied Soil Conservation and was a member of the Gamma Chi Chapter of Kappa Sigma Fraternity.
He was a lifelong farmer in Riley and Clay Counties, working first alongside his father, “J.F.,” and later with Ronda, her husband John Nelson, and sons Jim and Jeff.
Wendell was known for his witty sense of humor, quiet strength, and kindness. He was a dedicated family man who always had a story to share and a strong shoulder to lean on. He was deeply committed to the agriculture community, serving for decades in multiple leadership roles.
Among his major contributions was his involvement with the Soil Conservation Society of America, promoting no-till farming and conservation education. He was elected to the Riley County Conservation District and served for 33 years. He was appointed to the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts (KACD) and served on its board as Treasurer, Vice President, and President, and received KACD’s Outstanding Supervisor Award in 1984. He was also appointed to the KACD Grassland Committee and elected to the State Conservation Commission, serving 23 counties in Northeast Kansas. As a member of the Society for Range Management, he received the Trail Boss Award, the organization’s highest honor.
He was elected to the C & W Rural Electric Board, where he served as Secretary, and served as Area Chairman for the Kansas Electric Cooperative. He served 12 years on the Board of Bluestem Rural Electric Association (President, 2002) and was elected President of the Riley County Farm Bureau. He was a member of the Kansas Livestock Association, Riley County Livestock Association, Riley County Pork Producers, and Kansas Pork Producers.
He was an active member of the Green United Methodist Church and later the Clay Center United Methodist Church, serving in numerous stewardship roles. He was a member of the Benevolent Order of Elks #2253, a Master of the Masonic Highland Lodge, and a longtime member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity Gamma Chi Chapter Alumni Board.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Helen and later his wife Lois; his son Jim Eggerman; and sisters Dorothy Asper and Marie Bauer.
He is survived by two children, Ronda (Eggerman) Nelson and Jeffrey Eggerman (Susan McAndrew); grandchildren John Marc Nelson (Stacie Nelson), Pete Nelson (Elena Nelson), Tina Nelson (David Krugler), John Frederich Eggerman (Wendy Eggerman), Emily Eggerman, and Nicole Lally; great-grandchildren Calvin Nelson, Brayden Nelson, Lilliann Nelson, Delaney Nelson, and Kierstin Nelson; and two stepsons, Rick Lippert (Gerrie) and Brian Lippert (Kathy), along with 5 step-grandchildren and 5 step-great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home with Herb Mugler officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 pm Tuesday. Burial will be in the Mayday Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Mayday Cemetery and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
Aurelia C. Pacey (Posted 9/1/2026)
Aurelia C. Pacey, age 98, of Manhattan, passed away August 29, 2026 at the Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community in Manhattan.
Aurelia Cecelia Pacey was born to Joseph and Frances (Flynn) Richard on February 22, 1928, and grew up as the youngest of five children on a farm in the Meredith community west of Miltonvale, KS. She graduated from Miltonvale Rural High School in 1945 along with her future husband Franklin Pacey.
She taught for two years in the Meredith area. Aurelia and Franklin were married on June 17, 1946, and raised six children on the Pacey farm between Miltonvale and Oak Hill. They were members of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Miltonvale where Aurelia was active in the Altar Society. She was an integral part of the family farm and Pacey Custom Hay Baling, fixing lunches, ferrying machinery, and chasing down parts. Their farm home was the scene of many family get-togethers with their six children and spouses and 16 grandchildren. Aurelia was known for making heavenly angel food cakes and sewing for her children and grandchildren on her Sears Kenmore sewing machine that Franklin got for her when electricity was first brought to the farm in 1949. Aurelia and Franklin enjoyed traveling to all 50 states, especially on guided bus tours. After retirement they moved to Manhattan in 2003 where they enjoyed their wonderful and caring neighbors in the Westbank Townhomes and belonged to St. Thomas More Catholic Church. Franklin died in 2004, and Aurelia lived on her own in Westbank for another 19 years until she was 95.
She enjoyed making pillowcase dresses for young girls in developing countries and normally made six dresses per week using the same 1949 Sears Kenmore sewing machine. She made nearly 3500 dresses that friends, family, and missionaries personally carried to numerous countries, including Haiti, Nicaragua, and Papua New Guinea. Aurelia moved to Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan in 2023 and continued to sew dresses until just recently.
Aurelia is survived by four children, Marie Green of Manhattan, David Pacey (Carol) of Manhattan, Loretta Sampson (John) of Littleton, CO, and Polly Martin (Scott) of Clay Center, daughter-in-law, Mary Pacey of Olathe, fifteen grandchildren, Deb Webb (Scott William), Ed Chavey (Michelle), Matt Pacey (Jensena), Megan Lero (Dave), Erin Colaco (Glenn), John Green (Tracy), Breanna Martinez (Athen), Joseph Pacey (Cheryll), Katy Tra (Frank), Mark Pacey (Eryn), Anna Doody (Dustin), Shelby Sampson (Andrew), Andy Martin (Tori), Emily Anderson (Kaleb), and Tyler Martin (Sarah), and twenty-five greatgrandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband Franklin, daughter Sue Chavey, son-in-law Tom Chavey, son Mike Pacey, son-in-law John Green, and grandson Todd Pacey.
The family will greet friends during a visitation from 5:30 until 7:00p.m. Thursday September 3, 2026, at the St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Manhattan. A Parish Vigil with the Rosary will follow at the church starting at 7:00p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30a.m. Friday September 4, 2026 at the St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Manhattan. Interment will be held at 2:00p.m. Friday September 4, 2026 at the Miltonvale Cemetery in Miltonvale, Kansas.
Memorial contributions in memory of Aurelia are suggested the St. Anthony Catholic Church. 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
Milton Thomas “Tom” Roberts Jr. (Posted 8/27/2026)
Milton Thomas “Tom” Roberts Jr. passed away on August 25, 2026, at KU Med after a short but meaningful fight with cancer. He was 63 years old.
Tom was born October 26, 1962, in Fort Ord, California, to Pete and Ida Roberts. He and his family later moved from Washington State to Germany and back to Junction City, Kansas where his dad retired. This is where he grew up before heading to Manhattan to attend Kansas State University. Manhattan became home, and over the years Tom built a life there filled with family, friends, music, sports, laughter and more memories than could ever fit onto one page.
Tom was one of those rare people who truly lit up a room. Not in the way people simply say that about someone after they are gone, but in the very real way that people smiled when they saw him coming. He loved to laugh, loved to talk, loved music and had a way of making people feel welcome wherever he was. He enjoyed life, and the people around him enjoyed it more because he was there.
More than anything, Tom loved his family. His boys were one of the greatest sources of pride in his life, and becoming a grandpa only gave him more people to love. He adored his five grandsons and rarely missed an opportunity to watch them participate in the things they loved.
For the past 13 years, Tom shared his life with Kim, the woman he loved deeply and often described by saying, “It took me 50 years to find her, but she was well worth the wait.” With Kim came even more family for Tom to love. He naturally accepted Kim’s son, daughter-in-law, grandchildren and daughter as his own.
Tom loved music, sports, traveling and a good day spent with the people he cared about. Fall weekends were often built around the Chiefs (or so we thought), K-State and the Royals, whether he was at the game or perfectly content spending Saturday and Sunday watching from home. Family trips created some of his favorite memories, although if there was an island, a beach and warm weather involved, that was even better.
He was also known for his grilling and smoking meats, a talent his family happily benefited from at countless gatherings. He loved spending time with family and friends, watching his grandkids grow up, and, of course, spending time with his grandpup, Libra.
Tom spent much of his career in the convenience store business. He began working at McDonald’s, eventually moving into management, before spending more than 30 years with Shop Quik and later U-Stop Convenience Stores. He oversaw operations for stores throughout Manhattan and Junction City and built countless friendships along the way. For Tom, work was never only about the job. It was about the people.
Cancer entered Tom’s story quickly, and his fight was far shorter than anyone who loved him wanted it to be. But even during that time, what mattered most about Tom never changed. He loved Kim. He loved his boys. He loved his family. And he remained surrounded by the people whose lives were brighter because he had been part of them.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Ida Roberts.
He leaves behind Kim; his sons and their families, Dalton, Danielle, Dierks, Drake Thomas and Daegen McGee, and Trace, Bailee, Nash, Summit and their expected baby Roberts; as well as Shaun, Brandy, Jameson, Laney and Lorelei McDonald, Amanda McDonald, and his beloved grandpup, Libra.
He is also survived by his sisters, Dianne Sorenson, Debbie Roberts and Deidre Back, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
There will never be another Tom. His family will miss his voice, his laugh, his music, his stories, his cooking, and the unmistakable energy he brought with him everywhere he went. Most of all, they will miss the way it felt when he walked into the room.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday September 2, 2026 at the Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan. Interment will follow at the Ashland Cemetery in Manhattan. Following the interment there will be a celebration gathering at Tom and Kim’s home at 1466 McDowell Creek Road starting at 1:00p.m. If you are unable to make the services please come to the celebration and share stories with the family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Blue Valley Ball Association (BVBA) in Tom’s memory. The donations will help his grandbabies and other children in the community continue to play, grow and make memories on the field. Tom loved showing up for his grandbabies, and this is one small way that the next generation can keep playing on.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com
Raymond J. Buyle (Posted 8/26/2026)
The world lost a great light on August 24, 2026, when Raymond J. Buyle surrendered to ALS after a valiant and inspiring battle, at age 65.
Always a builder, Ray had an innate ability to create things. He built things that last, most notably a loving family that he cherished. Whatever he constructed, whether it be his faith in God, a long career in the construction industry that allowed him to provide for his family, or the many enduring relation-ships he formed throughout his life, he managed the project with love, integrity and passion. Now the projects have ended, sadly way ahead of schedule. To be sure, he has passed all inspections with flying colors and left behind many shelters for others.
Although he lost his voice in his last few months, he spoke volumes through his courageous battle against ALS. Ray was a living witness that faith and hope will always overcome our human frailty. Ray will be remembered for the way he battled against the ravages of illness. Always the one to come to the aid of others, Ray was forced in his last few months to begrudgingly accept the help of others – especially that of the love of his life and wife of forty-two years, Karen Buyle. Karen’s heroic displays of virtue ensured that Ray knew he was truly loved. Through his suffering, Ray demonstrated humility and enduring faith.
Ray will mainly be remembered for the family he and Karen created. Together, they built a family of four children: Eric (Nichole), Ken (Julie), Brad (Tiffany) and Annie (Jeremiah), along with a daughter-in-law Candace (Brent), who he loved as his own. True to his vocation as a master builder, Ray’s family also includes 22 grandchildren. Ray always took great pride in providing a home for his family, often in various states of disrepair as he single-handedly remodeled and improved them. As Karen can attest, unlike projects in his work life, his home improvements were rarely on schedule.
Ray’s family values were built upon the firm foundation provided by his parents, Ken and Kathy Buyle. Although Ken passed away in January, his example lived on through Ray. Ray was also predeceased by his brother, Daniel (Allison). In addition to his nuclear family, Ray is survived by his mother, Kathy, who resides at the Santa Marta retirement community in Olathe, Kansas. Ray is also survived by his siblings, Deb (Steve), Suzy (Robert), Mark (Kristy) and Katie (Ted).
In addition to Ray’s vocation as a husband, father, grandfather, son and brother, Ray had a long career in the construction industry. After graduating from Kansas State University with a degree in Construc-tion Science and Management, Ray devoted himself to the craft of commercial construction, mainly in Topeka, Kansas. In 2007, Ray landed his dream job at his beloved alma mater. Ray offered many years of dedicated sacrifice, service, instruction and mentoring to K-State students, helping them pursue their goals of contributing to society in the fields of architectural engineering and construction science. Student success was always at the center of Ray’s academic career. Through classroom instruction, passionate involvement in student organizations and department administration, Ray impacted an UN-told number of lives. In 2017, Ray took on the role of Department Head for the GE Johnson Department of Architectural Engineering and Construction Science in K-State’s Carl R. Ice College of Eng i-neering, which he held until his retirement in 2024. Ray owes a great debt of gratitude to the esteemed colleagues who shared his mission of preparing students for careers in the construction industry.
Ray was a tireless steward of his time. In addition to his devotion to his family and career, Ray was al-ways looking for ways to help others. One of Ray’s passions was his involvement with K-State’s AGC Student Chapter. Ray shepherded many humanitarian missions with K-State students to lend their construction skills to those suffering natural disasters, including following Hurricane Katrina and Kansas tornadoes. Ray drew strength from his Catholic faith, always looking for opportunities to grow in faith and volunteer his time to the church. As with everything he built, Ray started with a solid foundation and followed a trusted blueprint. Now it is time to rest from your labor, Poppy.
There will be a visitation on Friday, August 28th starting at 5:30 p.m. at Yorgensen Meloan Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, followed by a vigil and rosary at 7:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 29th at Seven Dolors Catholic Church, 221 Juliette Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas. A luncheon in the Manhattan Catholic School cafe teria, 306 S. Juliette Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas, will follow the burial at Sunrise Cemetery.
In honor of Ray’s love of K-State and the K-State Family, you are encouraged to incorporate purple into your funeral attire.
A memorial for Ray has been established at the Kansas State University Foundation to support the Ray and Karen Buyle Scholarship Fund within the College of Engineering. Contributions may be sent to: KSU Foundation, 1800 Kimball Ave., Ste. 200, Manhattan, KS 66502 (please indicate fund M47536). To make a gift online, go to http://www.ksufoundation.org/
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com
John William Roberts Jr. (Posted 8/25/2026)
John William Roberts Jr., 92, passed away on August 14, 2026, at Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, Kansas.
John was born on May 13, 1934, in Sylvia, Kansas, the son of John William Roberts Sr. and Winnie Ruth (Koontz) Roberts. On June 5, 1954, he married Connie Lou Watson, with whom he shared many years of life and family.
John will be remembered as an amazing father and a gifted storyteller. He had a way of sharing stories that brought memories to life, and those stories became a treasured part of the time spent with his family. Above all, John loved his family, and the memories created throughout his long life will continue to be cherished by those who knew and loved him.
John was a member of the Manhattan Senior Citizens Center, where he enjoyed being part of the local community.
He is survived by his daughter, Sherry Bonawitz; and his son, William “Billy” Roberts.
John was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Connie Lou Roberts; his son, Larry Wayne Roberts; and his parents, John William Roberts Sr. and Winnie Ruth Roberts.
John’s life was one filled with family, memories, and stories worth telling. His presence will be deeply missed, but the stories he shared and the memories he leaves behind will continue to live on through those who loved him.
No services at this time.
Irvin Parkview Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Wayne F. Schurle (Posted 8/25/2026)
Wayne F. Schurle, age 78 of Clay Center, passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Tallgrass Healthcare in Junction City.
He was born on January 26, 1948, in Clay Center, the son of Victor and Rosella (Friederich) Schurle. He graduated from Clay Center Community High School in 1966. He then joined the National Guard and served four years.
He married Kathy Kaspar and they had three children. They later divorced.
He married Glenda Wells in December 1991 and had to fly to New York for the first time in his life to fetch his bride. They lived happily on the farm for 34 years.
Wayne worked for Key Milling Chicken Farm, Hutch Mayrath and GT, along with being a farmer and raising cattle and hogs.
He is survived by his wife, Glenda Schurle of Green; two sons, Patrick Schurle and wife Kim of Green and Joseph Schurle and wife Lori of Manhattan; one daughter, Kendra Worthen of Clay Center; four grandchildren, Alexis and Lane Schurle of Green and Walker and Ellison Schurle of Manhattan; two brothers, Kenneth Schurle and wife Connie of Green and Doug Schurle and wife Brenda of Green; two sisters, Kathleen Christie and husband Roger of Lawrence and Betty Phelps and husband Fred of Topeka, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Karen Schurle.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, August 30, 2026, in the Ebenezer Cemetery with Pastor Lillian Flegle officiating.
Memorials may be made to the Green Community Cafe and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home, PO Box 76, Riley, Kansas 66531.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
Margaret Wohler (Posted 8/24/2026)
Margaret Wohler, age 84, died August 20, 2026. She is survived by her husband, Dennis Wohler; one child, Eric Joseph (Kelly); and two stepchildren, Shelly Wohler and Greg Wohler (Leslie).
She is also survived by four grandsons, Jaylen Joseph (Brynn Pate) Ty Joseph; Tyler Wohler (Brittany); Nick Wohler (Melisa) and three great-grandchildren, Braxton Burt, Bristol Burt, and Boone Wohler. Additionally, she has several nieces and nephews.
Margaret first came to Manhattan in 1974. She was an employee of the Geary County School District for 25 years.
A gathering for all friends and family will be held at Liquid Art Winery, 1745 Wildcat Creek Road in Manhattan on Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 2-4p.m.
The family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Margart 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
Terry Truman McDaniel (Posted 8/22/2026)
Terry Truman McDaniel, 62, of Paxico, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday (August 18, 2026) at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, Kansas.
Born November 11, 1963 in Wamego, Kansas, Terry was the son of Harvey Truman and Sharon (Wurtz) McDaniel. He married Denise Michaelis on March 12, 1983 at Trinity Lutheran Church in McFarland.
Terry served his country in the Army National Guard from 1982 to 1997 when he transferred to the Air National Guard. He retired as a Technical Sergeant in 2005, serving for nearly 23 years.
A 1983 graduate of Wabaunsee High School, Terry was employed as Superintendent for the City of McFarland for several years. He later was employed in Dining & Housing Maintenance for Kansas State University until his retirement.
Terry enjoyed shooting, going to concerts and gun shows with his family, woodworking, shopping and loved attending the Renaissance Festival in Kansas City, going multiple times a year for many years. He had a special place in his heart for all animals, keeping pets ranging from turtles and rats to ferrets and iguanas. He was a member of the N.R.A. and was active with his community, teaching shooting sports with 4-H and volunteering with the Wabaunsee Fire District No. 7.
Survivors include his wife, Denise; a son, Derek McDaniel of Alma, KS; three daughters, April Murphy (Keith) of McFarland, KS, Amanda Woods (Josh) of Cabot, AR and Abigail McDaniel of Paxico, KS; his mother, Sharon McDaniel of Topeka, KS; seven grandchildren, Justice Houston, Finnegan McDaniel, Danielle Murphy, Blake Murphy, Kambrie Woods, Kaylee Woods and Klara Woods; two brothers, Jerry McDaniel (Tamara) of Georgetown, Guyana and Larry McDaniel of Topeka, KS; two sisters, Kim McDaniel of Topeka, KS and Tammy McDaniel of Paxico, KS; and many nieces and nephews.
Terry was preceded in death by his father, Harvey.
Memorial services will be held Saturday morning (August 29, 2026) at 10:30 at Trinity Lutheran Church in McFarland, Kansas with Rev. Terry DeGiovanni officiating. Burial with Military Honors by the Air National Guard, Alma American Legion Post No. 32 and the American Legion Riders will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery near Paxico, Kansas.
The family will greet friends on Saturday morning (August 29, 2026) from 9:30 until the time of services at Trinity Lutheran Church.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alma American Legion Post No. 32 or Purple PAWS of Manhattan. Please make checks payable to the charity of your choice and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.
Marjorie Ann Kluber (Posted 8/21/2026)
Marjorie Ann Kluber, age 91, of Manhattan, passed away August 18, 2026, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.
She was born on June 24, 1935, at her home in Langdon, Kansas, the daughter of Alva James and Harriett Emily (Rickett) Pike.
Marjorie married Thomas Kluber in 1957, they later divorced in 1986.
She worked at many different places in Manhattan over the years. Her last job was with Dillards before she retired in 2000.
She was preceded in death by her siblings Daryl Pike and Eve Thompson
Marjorie is survived by her children: Loretta (Jerry) Wallenbecker of Manhattan, Gary (Karen) Kluber of Mountain Home, Idaho, Lisa (Kit) Portz of Manhattan, and Lane Kluber of Manhattan; also, her grandchildren: Rikki Kluber, Kaitlyn Kluber and Dane Bogart;
great-grandchildren: Brandon, Brionna, Marlie, Meliah, Jorgie, Karbyn and Eveyln; and her siblings: Gaile Garner, Joy (Don) Stevens, Kay Miller (Bob).
The family will greet friends during a visitation from 5:30 until 7:00p.m. on Monday August 24, 2026, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00a.m. Tuesday august 25, 2026 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel in Manhattan, with Pastor Melanie Nord officiating. Interment will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
Memorial contributions in memory of Marjorie are suggested to the American Cancer Society. Contributions may be left 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
Jim Shave (Posted 8/18/2026)
On August 15, 2026, Jim Shaver was called home to Heaven, while surrounded by his loving wife and daughters at the Meadowlark Hills-Wroten House in Manhattan.
James Kent Shaver was born March 28, 1939, in Wichita, Kansas, to Mary Frank Leslie-Johnson and Nels Johnson and was later adopted by Bill Shaver.
Jim’s elementary school years were spent in Sheridan, Wyoming, and he loved telling stories of time spent at a dude ranch owned by family friends. Horseback riding in the mountains of Wyoming and those primary years were the happiest of his childhood. The family returned to Salina, Kansas, where Jim spent his adolescent years and graduated from Salina High School in 1957.
Jim joined the U.S. Navy in 1959 and served the country for four years. Jim earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Southern Colorado in Pueblo in 1967. He followed with a master’s degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling at the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley.
While in college, Jim worked at Goodwill Industries in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Goodwill gave him his first full-time job after college as a rehabilitation counselor, where he met and married his wife, Kathy. In 1970, Jim and Kathy relocated to Beatrice, Nebraska, when Jim accepted employment as a psychologist at Beatrice State Home and was promoted to unit director while employed there.
In 1978, Jim accepted employment as the President and CEO of Big Lakes Developmental Center in Manhattan, Kansas. He remained in that position until retirement in 2005. Jim also did accreditation surveys for The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.
Jim and Kathy were blessed with two daughters, Susan and Cindy, as well as two granddaughters, Maddie and Hayden.
Jim was a member of The First United Methodist Church of Manhattan, the American Psychological Association, and the American Legion.
Jim’s greatest joys were traveling, attending K-State athletic events, and most of all, spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his wonderful storytelling, his dedication to helping others, his love of family, and the many lives he touched throughout his career and life.
Survivors include his wife Kathy; their daughters, Susan Boller and her husband Michael of Manhattan, and their daughters, Maddie McMillan (Evan) and Hayden Boller; and Cindy Shaver of Manhattan.
The family will greet friends during a visitation from 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, August 21, 2026, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel in Manhattan, with Rev. Melanie Nord officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
The family suggest memorial contributions in memory of Jim to the Meadowlark Hills Parkinson’s Program or Big Lakes Developmental Center. Contributions may be left 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
Jenna Lea Vathauer (Posted 8/18/2026)
Jenna Lea Vathauer, age 42 of Barnes, passed away Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Hanover Hospital.
She was born on June 1, 1984, in Emporia, the daughter of John Clyde and Catherine Kay (Smith) Pritchard.
On October 6, 2007, she married Daniel Jacob Vathauer. He survives of the home.
When Daniel and Jenna met, she was a nurse and in the years following, she became a farm wife and Daniel’s partner in maintaining the kid’s and farm activities. She attended St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Waterville and served as a volunteer fire firefighter and treasurer for the Barnes Rural Fire Department.
Jenna was a remarkable woman, known for her warm heart and generosity. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether she was antiquing, cooking delicious meals for friends and family, smoking meats such as ribs and pork butts. Jenna had a special knack for decorating her home for the holidays and special occasions, creating an environment filled with warmth and cheer. As an outdoorsy soul, she loved to drive country roads, pick wildflowers, and enjoy nature while camping and fishing. Jenna was a giver at heart who never said “no.”
In addition to her husband, Daniel Vathauer, she is survived by three children, Jacob, Jaci and Arlo Vathauer of Barnes; her parents, John and Catherine Pritchard of Council Grove; her twin brother, Jessie Pritchard of Springfield, Tennessee; one sister, Rinda Stecher and husband Tony of Council Grove; one grandmother, Donna Smith of Council Grove; two sisters-in-law, Stacy Vermetten and husband Mike of Waterville and Jen Einspahr and husband Mike of Crystal River, Florida; one brother-in-law, Jerod Vathauer and wife Jessica of Murietta, California; her mother-in-law, Luann Thomson and husband Wayne of Waterville; her father-in-law, Bob Vathauer and wife Libby of Manhattan; two step brothers-in-law, and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be from noon until 8:00 pm Wednesday August 19, 2026, at the Christie-Anderes Funeral Home in Waterville, where the family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 pm.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Waterville. Burial will be in the St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery. There will be a lunch served at the Barnes Firehouse following the graveside service.
Memorials may be made to the Barnes Rural Fire Department or Valley Heights High School Softball and Baseball Programs. Contributions may be 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.
Holly Ann Crane Smith (Posted 8/17/2026)
Holly Ann Crane Smith died August 15 at Olathe Hospital after a lengthy illness.
She was born on October 5, 1956, in Sidney, New York. She moved to Manhattan as a child and always considered Manhattan her home. She was a member of the Manhattan High School Class of 1974 and enjoyed maintaining contact with her classmates and other alumnae. She was a graduate of Augsburg College in Minnesota.
With her husband Bill, she was a great fan of K-State football, attending many games over the years. One of Holly’s first jobs was with the First United Methodist Church in Manhattan. She later worked as a paraeducator in Gardner, helping kindergarten students in their first year of schooling.
Holly was preceded in death by her parents, Charles (Pete) and Virgene Crane.
She is survived by her husband Bill, brother David and spouse Jeff Wells, sister Nancy, sister Janet Boucher and spouse Mike, stepchildren Jennifer and Ivan, and numerous step-grandchildren.
Memorial services will be held on Thursday August 20, 2026, at 11:00a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Manhattan. Private inurnment will be held at a later date.
The family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Holly to the First United Methodist Church (To be used for Youth Ministry). Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502. ymlfuneralhome.com
Ben D. Puett (Posted 8/17/2026)
Ben D. Puett, age 55, of Manhattan, passed away Saturday August 15, 2026, at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan.
He was born on March 8, 1971, in Junction City, the son of Glen and Anne (Joyce) Puett Jr. Ben grew up in the Manhattan area and graduated from Manhattan High School with the class of 1989.
Ben learned from an early age to be a diligent worker and care about the things you were involved in. He owned multiple businesses over the years. His passion was Simmental cattle; he was the proud owner of Puett Simmental Ranch. Ben was a former board member of the Kansas Simmental Association and a big supporter of the Kansas Junior Simmental Association.
Ben was a kind, caring, and giving person. He loved being on the ranch and he always wanted to “stay on the creek.” He enjoyed going to Colorado for the annual elk trip. He also loved to go fishing and float on the river.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his Uncle Don Puett and Aunt Connie Puett; and his sister Janice Bernave-Puett.
Ben is survived by his wife Wendy Puett; his sons: Logan Puett and Daughter in-law Jazmyn Puett, Blaine Puett, and Bryce Kotewa; his nephews: Chad and Shane Young, Ian Drake, Dustin Johnson, and his nieces: Marcy Venrick and Amie Lindshield; and his dogs Keystone, Sage, and Layla.
The family will greet friends during a visitation on Wednesday August 19, 2026, from 5:30 until 7:00p.m. at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday August 20, 2026, at 1:30p.m. at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow in the Ashland Cemetery in Manhattan.
In lieu of flowers please make all donations payable to the Kansas Junior Simmental Association. Make checks payable to KJSA and mail them to KJSA 916 22nd Road, Kanopolis, Kansas 67454.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com
Paul Henry Schweir (Posted 8/15/2026)
Paul Henry Schweir, 69, of Maple Hill, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly from a farm accident on Saturday (August 8, 2026) in Maple Hill, Kansas.
Born July 29, 1957 Wamego, Kansas, Paul was the son of Lawrence and Gertrude (Casper) Schweir. He grew up working on the family farm and continued with his life’s passion working his farm and raising cattle. He was a hard worker who could do the work of three men, but he always made it fun. He was always on a mission seeking out new and better corn and soybean varieties and keeping his field weed free and well maintained. When he did take a break, it was usually to visit a test plot or attending a tractor pull or bull sale.
Lovingly known as The Commander, Paul was an avid fisherman and loved hunting, especially deer, quail, pheasant and turkey hunting. Paul also enjoyed hunting mushrooms. His pride and joy was the 44 pound flathead catfish he caught on his rod and reel just this past June. He was active in his community and had served on the Wabaunsee County Fire District No. 7 Board and was always there to help out other farmers when in need.
Survivors include two brothers, Wayne Schweir (Dedra) of Belvue, Kansas and Kenneth Schweir of Manhattan, Kansas; a niece, Kayla Moore (Kris); two nephews, Travis Rezac and Troy Rezac (Ashley); and great nieces and great nephew, Kaden Moore, Addyson Rezac, Harper Rezac and Sutton Rezac.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Karen Rezac and Donna Jean Schweir.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday morning (August 18, 2026) at 10:00 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego with Mr. Rob Campanella as Celebrant. Burial will follow in the Wamego City Cemetery.
Visitation will be Monday evening (August 17, 2026) from 5:30 to 7:30 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.
The family asks in lieu of a memorial contribution, honor Paul by taking your family out for a steak or BBQ rib dinner, which were his favorites.
Loretta Catherine Johnson (Posted 8/14/2026)
Loretta Catherine Johnson passed away at her home in Manhattan, Kansas, on August 8, 2026, surrounded by her husband and many friends.
She was born January 18,1956, in New Britain, Connecticut, to Irene and Clarence Johnson. The youngest of three siblings, she was preceded in death by her sister, Cheryl Johnson and her sister-in-law, Gail Johnson. She is survived by her husband of 23 years, Uwe Thumm, of the home, her stepchildren Julian (33), Philip (32), and Emily (28) Thumm of Colorado, and her brother Ted Johnson and his two children Erika and Kris of Connecticut.
From early on, Loretta was drawn to learning about the natural world. She graduated from Cromwell High School in 1974 and earned her bachelor’s degree in Zoology and Field Biology from Connecticut College before completing her Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Connecticut in 1992, where she met her first husband, Antoni (Ton) Damman. In 1995 she moved to Manhattan, Kansas to join Kansas State University as an assistant professor in Biology. There she progressed to the academic rank of full professor, taught biology classes, and conducted research, focusing on ecological genomics to help transform our understanding of how grassland species respond and adapt to environmental change. From there she retired a few months ago.
After Ton’s passing in 2000, she was supported by her adopted “Kansas family” of close friends through this life transition. In early 2003, during joint peaceful protests against the impending Iraq invasion, she met Uwe, who quickly became her extraordinary friend and husband, bringing into her life his three young children: Julian, Philip, and Emily. Together, often including friends and family, they passionately enjoyed great conversations and outdoor adventures. She loved traveling, sailing, hiking, and skiing.
Meanwhile, as her academic career unfolded, she continued to teach and broaden the scope of her research, establishing in 2004 the K-State Ecological Genomics Institute. She helped create a new interdisciplinary research program at Kansas State University and was a sought-after and much appreciated collaborator at research institutions in the US and Europe. To run her successful ecology laboratory, she secured external funding and led federally funded graduate training programs that created research opportunities and encouraged career prospects for generations of students.
Throughout her academic career, students and colleagues were at the heart of Loretta’s professional life. She generously shared her time, ideas, encouragement, and friendship with the numerous undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate researchers she mentored. Many of them were more than “just” colleagues and routinely enriched Loretta and Uwe’s holiday celebrations and BBQs on the couple’s deck, as well as sailing “adventures” on their boats at Tuttle Creek and Milford Reservoir. Loretta was a member of the Sigma Xi Scientific Research Honor Society, the Blue Valley and Southwind Yacht Clubs near Manhattan, KS, and the Sarasota Sailing Squadron in FL. She repeatedly served as the commodore of the BVYC and recruited many new members – regardless of their initial interest in sailing.
Loretta was well known for her extraordinary gift of bringing people of diverse backgrounds together. She tirelessly cultivated and coordinated enriching gatherings and events, ensuring no soul was left out or alone. She consistently and generously gave priority to helping others in need, regardless of ethnicity, background, or status. She equally used this talent to sustain her passion for academic research, to promote generations of students, colleagues, and friends, and to fuse them into a welcoming open-minded coherent circle of people: her “village”. She created this village and it supported her until the end. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A celebration of life gathering will be held at 2:00 pm. Saturday August 15, 2026 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan. There will be a time to share memories and stories of Loretta with her family, friends and colleagues.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com