Obituaries

Bernice Christine Brighton (Posted 7/9/2026)

Bernice Christine Brighton, 100 and ½, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away Friday, July 3, following a brief illness. She was born November 21, 1925, on her parents’ farm south of Osage City, Kansas, to John Delbert and Nettie Lafferty.

She attended a one-room country school and later attended Osage City High School and the College of Emporia. She finished in August 1946 and took her first teaching job in Milford, Kansas. There she met her future husband, Dale Eugene Brighton, who had recently returned from serving in a U.S. Army railroad unit in Germany. Their only son, Van, was born June 11, 1948.

After Bernice and Dale married, Dale’s work with the Union Pacific Railroad brought them to Irving, Kansas, where Bernice taught school until 1957, when their home was purchased for the creation of Tuttle Creek Reservoir. The railroad later moved the family to Frankfort, Kansas City, Kansas, and finally Manhattan. Bernice taught elementary school, most often fifth grade, in each community, including at Ogden and Lee Elementary schools. Her proudest professional accomplishment was receiving USD 383’s Excellence in Teaching Award in 1981. She retired in 1982.

In retirement, Bernice and Dale helped Van and his first wife, Sandy, with their small business, Office World, until she retired a second time a few years later. She was an active grandmother to Kristin and Michael, never missing a school performance or sporting event. After Dale’s death in 1990, she continued serving the community through Trinity Presbyterian Church, Order of the Eastern Star, Manhattan Retired Teachers, VFW Auxiliary and Welcome Club.

Bernice showed her love by feeding others. She loved hosting dinners in her home, and her guests never left without dessert and leftovers. For the last eight years, she lived at Meadowlark, where she often shared treats and artwork with fellow residents and staff. She had a smile for everyone and lived by the motto, “Bloom where you’re planted.”

Bernice is survived by her daughter-in-law, Jan Brighton; her granddaughter, Kristin Brighton and her husband, Benjamin Ward; her grandson, Michael and his wife, Heather; and four great-grandchildren, Ryan, Katharine, Mary and Andrew. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dale; her son, Van; her parents; and two older brothers, Harold and Glen Lafferty. She never knew a stranger. As her family grew smaller in recent years, she kept many extended family and friends close to her, including Connie Schweitzer and Janet Lowery, Sandy and Charly Pottorff, Nancy Whitney, and Kathleen Ward.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 11, at 10:30 a.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church. Burial will precede the service at 9 a.m. at Sunrise Cemetery. Family and friends may pay their respects at Irvin Parkview Funeral Home on Friday, July 10, between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. The family will not be present.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bernice’s honor to Trinity Presbyterian Church or Meadowlark. The family thanks the staff of Ascension Via Christi and Meadowlark for caring for her in her final days.

Irvin Parkview Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Donald Eugene Rottinghaus (Posted 7/9/2026)

Donald Eugene Rottinghaus, age 72 of Wakefield, passed away Sunday, July 5, 2026, at his home.

He was born on June 4, 1954, in Indianapolis, Indiana, the son of Richard Lawrence and Mary Ellen (Clary) Rottinghaus.

On July 14, 1993, he married Teri Lyn Harper in Junction City.  She survives of the home.

Don served in the U.S. Army and following his service, worked as a radio repairer at Fort Riley.  Before he joined the military, he was a ballet dancer for the Milwaukee Ballet Company.  He was a member of the American Legion and enjoyed throwing darts and bowling.  He was an avid Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Bucks fan.

In addition to his wife Teri Rottinghaus, he is survived by three sisters, Cynthia Satterfield of Hartford, Wisconsin, Felicia Alsberg of West Bend, Wisconsin, and Christina Feurer of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and one brother, Richard Rottinghaus of Shawano, Wisconsin.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will receive friends from 11:30 am until 12:30 pm on Monday, July 13, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.  We will go in procession to the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery where there will be Military Honors provided by the U.S. Army.

Memorials may be made to Clay County Animal Rescue and Education Center (CCARE) and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home, PO Box 176, Riley, KS 66531.

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

Patricia Hennesy (Posted 7/4/26)

Patricia (Pattie) Marie Hennesy passed away on Wednesday, July 1^, 2026, at Good Shepherd Homecare & Hospice, Manhattan, Kansas, her husband Charlie was by her side, as her 12-year cancer journey finally came to an end.

Pattie was born in Emporia Kansas on May 30, 1958, to Cecil Wayne and Iona Marie (Mary) Staley, with both her parents preceding her in death. As a young woman, Pattie married Ned Patterson, and she is survived by three children from that union, daughter Alexia Bennett (husband Michael), son Wade Patterson (wife Brooke), and son Wyatt Patterson; grandchildren from that marriage: Chance Gragg, Caden Gragg, Raina Paterson, Freya Patterson and Madison Patterson. One brother Michael Staley also survives her.

Several years later she met the love of her life and married Stephen Charles (Charlie) Hennesy. The two became one and were blessed at the time of her death to have spent more than 31 years together. From this union came their daughter Rebekah Joy (Hennesy) Tank (husband William). Pattie loved that with the marriage to Charlie came two stepdaughters: Marjorie and Katie (husband Jason) and eventually four step-grandchildren: Corinne, Alicia, Aiden, and Athena. Pattie’s proudest accomplishment was her children and grandchildren, and she was indeed a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother!

Close behind the love for her family was her love of crocheting and gardening. Even after they were grown, the children would come with grandchildren in tow each spring to help her get her garden in and covered with mulch (200 bags). She always had beautiful flowers and bountiful fruits and vegetables, most of which she gave to family, dear friends, and neighbors.

She is already missed!

The family will greet friends during a visitation from 5:30 until 7:00p.m. Wednesday July 8, 2026, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.

The Parish Vigil Service with the Rosary will follow the visitation starting at 7:00p.m. at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be at 10:30a.m. Thursday July 9, 2026, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel. 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

Marilyn Elaine (Beason) Scherling (Posted 6/30/2026)

Marilyn Elaine (Beason) Scherling, 96, passed away peacefully surrounded by family members at 8:00pm, June 27, 2026, at her home in Manhattan, Kansas. She was born on February 21, 1930, to parents Harold Paul and Murle Florene (Munson) Beason in the back of her father’s newspaper shop – The Athol Review – in Athol, Kansas.

 In 1933, her father moved the family and the newspaper to Smith Center, Kansas, where Marilyn graduated as a proud Redmen in 1948. In high school, Marilyn was a member of the tumbling team, president of the Y-Teen club, head cheerleader, and assistant editor of the school newspaper, The Tom-Tom, and on the Centrian yearbook staff. She was a member of the National Honor Society and Quill and Scroll.

 After high school graduation, Marilyn attended Kansas State University majoring in Journalism. She lived in then Northwest Hall and Van Zile Hall while attending college, serving as a Freshman Counselor at Northwest her freshman year. She also served as assistant business manager her senior year on the KSU student newspaper staff, The Collegian. Marilyn was selected for membership in Theta Sigma Phi, the professional organization for outstanding women journalists. She received the K-Key Journalism Award during her junior and senior years. She graduated from Kansas State University in 1952 with a bachelor’s degree in Technical Journalism, specializing in Advertising. Marilyn was a proud, purple-wearing Wildcat to the end!

 Although very active with academics and activities while at KSU, Marilyn would tell the story that particularly during her freshman and sophomore years, she was very homesick, and would ask her parents to come home often to Smith Center She would also say that especially during the time she was home, her dad would not let her unpack her suitcase for fear that he would not be able to get her to go back to college to finish.

 While at K-State, she met fellow journalism student Chris Scherling. They were married in Smith Center, KS on September 7, 1952. During their twenty-one-year marriage, four children were born: Deborah, Susan, Syd, and Dane. After their marriage, Chris worked on newspapers in Oberlin, KS; Belleville, KS; Garden City, KS; and Salida, CO. In 1958, the family moved to Osborne, KS where Chris and Marilyn were co-publishers and later owners and editors of the Osborne County Farmer.

 In addition to raising an active, young family, Marilyn was integral in the operation of the newspaper. She excelled in meeting business and community members by gaining their trust through advertising their businesses and writing and supporting the community of Osborne and surrounding area in the Osborne County Farmer. Marilyn was also gifted at photography, particularly covering activities and sports of the local high school to showcase in the newspaper (and occasionally taking pictures of activities/athletics which her own children were a part of).

 In 1969, the newspaper sold and Marilyn and children remained in Osborne until the summer of 1971, when they returned to Marilyn’s hometown of Smith Center. Once in Smith Center, Marilyn worked for the Bihlmaier State Farm Insurance Company agency. In 1975, Marilyn was elected Smith County Register of Deeds and was elected to a second term but resigned in September of 1978 to accept a position with the Smith Center Branch Office of The State of Kansas Social & Rehabilitation Services. She served as the receptionist, clerical, and office manager for all SRS programs (financial assistance and adult and children services) and the Food Stamp program, and then was promoted to Income Maintenance Worker. She remained in that position until her retirement in February of 1995.

 Marilyn would quip about wondering how she ever had time to work -as her life became fuller and richer once she did retire from work. Marilyn was a member of Chapters AE, BM, CR, HM, and IL of P.E.O., – through the years she served as Chapter President and was a State and International Convention Delegate. Her love of P.E.O. was shared with daughter Deborah, who was initiated into Chapter AE in 1975. In 1985 while serving as Chapter President, she initiated her daughter Susan and daughter-in-law Micki Scherling into Chapter AE. Marilyn was able to attend the P.E.O. Reciprocity Meeting in Manhattan in 2024 to receive the milestone recognition of being a 75-year member of P.E.O. Other activities and organizations that benefited from Marilyn’s devotion and service through the years in Osborne, as well as Smith Center included the Order of the Eastern, serving as Matron of Honor and District Aide; Public Relations Chairman for the Central Kansas Council of Girl Scouts, Inc.; Red Caps (Adult Booster Club for SCHS Athletics) serving as Vice-President and Publicity Chair. Marilyn has also been listed in Who’s Who of American Women and honored to be a member of Polly Ogden Chapter DAR.

 Especially while the children were growing up, Marilyn guided them to the importance of faith and service through membership in the United Methodist Church. As the children grew in age, Marilyn was the Choir Director for the Sunbeam Choir and Junior Choir in Osborne. After her retirement from full-time work, Marilyn’s talents blossomed in creating and providing sanctuary floral arrangements for the Evangelical Free Church in Smith Center for several years. Marilyn was an accomplished seamstress, sewing particularly for her children as they were growing up.

 As full as her life became through friendships and participation in activities/organizations, her greatest fulfillment and devotion in life was being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. There was no greater supporter and voice of encouragement for her children and all their activities and athletic events, often going from one activity to another on the same night. That enjoyment, support and encouragement only multiplied through her four grandsons. Her eyes could light up a city just at the mention of one of their names! And now those grandsons have children of their own, and Marilyn was fortunate to have met six of the seven great-grandchildren, as the youngest was just born in March in Iowa. Especially meaningful to Marilyn was having great-granddaughter Lydia Marilyn named in her honor.

 Persistent health issues lead Marilyn to begin making her home with daughter Susan in 2010, while Susan was working for Dodge City Public Schools. In 2016, Susan retired from her work, and she and Marilyn moved to their current home in Manhattan to be closer to daughter Deborah and her husband Jim. Along with Susan, Deborah has been a faithful and steadfast caregiver for Marilyn and of immeasurable support for Susan. Regardless of her health concerns, Marilyn approached each one with immense and unwavering perseverance. She never gave up as she fought hard to stay as healthy and active as possible.

 Marilyn had a subtle and clever sense of humor, and an infectious giggle. She was never boastful or unkind and had a unique quality that just made others gravitate toward her through to her last days. To Marilyn, everyone had purpose and meaning, and she possessed the quality to help others see the beauty in the smallest things.

 Left to mourn the physical loss of her presence, love, and wisdom are children: Deborah (Jim) Kleinau of Manhattan, KS; Susan Scherling of Manhattan, KS; Syd (Karla) Scherling of Clive, IA; and Dane Scherling of Ft. Collins, CO. Grandsons include: Ryan Scherling of Safford, AZ; Ian (Anna) of Watertown, MA; Adam (Kristina) Scherling of Grundy Center, IA; and Ren (Emelia) Scherling of Denver, CO. Great-grandchildren Liam Blake, Weston Paul, and Wyatt Andrew Scherling; Lucy Grace and Ellis Charles Scherling; and Louis Frederick and Lydia Marilyn Scherling. Marilyn is also survived by her sister and brother-in law: Paula (Jerald) Gibson of Wichita Falls, TX and nieces Kristi (Eric) McGill and Julie (Mark) McBurnett also of Wichita Falls, TX. She is preceded in death by her grandparents Franklin and Nona Munson; parents Harold and Murle Beason; aunt Frances McAdams; and daughter-in-law Micki Scherling.

 The family will greet friends from 10:00am to 11:00am on Monday, July 6, 2026, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502, with service beginning at 11:00a.m. Graveside services and burial will be held at Fairview Cemetery, Smith Center, KS on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, 11:00am.

 As Marilyn was very appreciative of the wonderful health professionals that cared for her during her life and the importance of available health care for everyone. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Marilyn’s name to the Smith County Memorial Hospital, 921 US-36, Smith Center, KS 66967.

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

Suzanne Faye Taylor (Posted 6/30/2026)

Suzanne Faye Taylor, age 88, of Manhattan, passed away June 26, 2026, at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House in Manhattan.

Suzanne was born in Milwaukee, WI and lived in Manhattan since 1979. She was an LPN and retired from Lafene Student Health Center in 2002. She was an avid reader, had an enormous love of laughter and enjoyed going out to dinner and breakfast. Her greatest joy was her children and their families. Spending time with all of them brought her immense pride.

She is survived by her children: Lisa Dziedzic, Becky Johnson (Neil), Christine Ramskugler (Randy), Ellen Wilson, Roberta Kind, Peggy Crubel (John), Maribeth Chrest, and Melissa Cragg (Gary Stahnke), her daughter-in-law Linda Beyer-Dziedzic, and her brother, Jeff Taylor.

Suzanne was a very proud grandmother of 16 and GG to 20 great-grandchildren. She is further survived by several “bonus” grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her only son David, son-in-law Joseph Wilson, and two grandsons, Sam Wilson and Benjamin Behrend. She was also preceded in death by her brother Edward, her sister Inez, and her ex-husband, Walter.

Thank you to Good Shepherd Hospice House for the care and compassion shown to our mom in her last days.

There will be a visitation with family from 5:30 until 7:00p.m. on Thursday July 16, 2026 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of plants and flowers the family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Suzanne to Habitat for Humanity or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 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

Patsy (Pat) Pauline Vogt (Posted 6/26/2026)

Raymond George Mauer Sr. (Posted 6/22/2026)

Raymond George Mauer Sr., 96, of Paxico, Kansas, passed away on Friday morning (June 19, 2026) at his home in Paxico.

Born July 22, 1929 in Topeka, Kansas, Raymond was the son of John and Emma (Hafner) Mauer. He married Barbara Lechman on February 9, 1952 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Topeka. They shared 74 years of marriage together. Barbara survives.

Raymond attended school until he was 17 when he joined the U. S. Navy on February 18, 1947. He served proudly for 3 years until his discharge on July 24, 1950.

Following his discharge, he became a glass glazer working for nearly 40 years until his retirement from Townsend Glass Company. He was a member of the IUPAT Union Local #558 in Kansas City.

Raymond was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Paxico and had been a member of the Alma American Legion Post No. 32. Raymond loved being on his land riding horses and raising cattle. He also enjoyed carpentry, reading western books and looked forward to traveling to his Navy reunions.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara; three daughters, Christine Harding (Steve) of Silver Lake, KS, Julia Hertlein (Ron) of Eskridge, KS and Angela Anderson (Greg) of Alma, KS; three sons, Raymond G. Mauer Jr. (Judy) of Minnesota, Mark Mauer of Topeka, KS and Greg Mauer (Melissa) of Higginsville, MO; thirteen grandchildren; and several great grandchildren; a sister, Dolores Mauer of Topeka, KS; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Mauer was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Mary Beth; and 10 siblings.

A Rosary Service will be held Thursday morning (June 25, 2026) at 10:30 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Paxico followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 with Fr. Frank Coady officiating.

Military Honors by the United States Navy Funeral Honors Detail and the Alma American Legion Post No. 32 will follow the Mass at the church.

Graveside entombment will be held at a later date in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Topeka.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Please make checks payable to Sacred Heart Catholic Church and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547

Gladys Elizabeth “Betty” (Mattson) Anderson (Posted 6/18/2026)

Gladys Elizabeth “Betty” (Mattson) Anderson, 92, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, at Via Christi Village in Manhattan, KS.

 She was born on August 12, 1933, in Hamlin Township, MN, the daughter of Harold and Theolena (Olson) Mattson. Betty graduated from Dawson High School in 1951 and earned a teaching certificate from Mankato State College in 1953. On June 21, 1953, she married her Knight in Shining Armor, Neil V. M. Anderson. Together, they shared 67 years of marriage, building a beautiful life and raising six children.

 Betty devoted her life to Jesus and her husband, moving homes more than twenty times to accommodate his career in the Navy and academia. She raised six children who all learned that though their mom was tiny, she was also mighty. What they say about redheads having a temper was true for her- you did not mess with Betty! She balanced that with a great sense of humor and loved to tell a good story and laugh, especially at herself.

 Betty was proud of her Norwegian heritage and felt pretty sorry for anyone who was not Norsky. Over the years she helped support the family with a variety of jobs. Betty found her passion in antiques and collectibles by operating the Barn Antiques and Bed & Breakfast at Kimble Cliff for 20 years. She loved everything about it: her customers, learning all about the antiques and sharing that knowledge with enthusiasts. She was a member of KVMA Auxiliary and the Keats Lion Club.

 Betty dedicated her life to Christ in 1963 and was a firm believer in prayer. She knew God heard and answered her prayers about helping her meet and marry Neil Anderson, providing food for her son when there was none in the house, about expanding her family and many more examples. Her faith informed her practice of quietly reaching out to women she suspected of being abused and encouraging them to seek the help they deserved.

 Above all, Betty cherished the moments spent with her ever expanding family. She loved babies and nothing made her happier than to hear there would be an addition to the family.

 Betty was preceded in death by her husband Neil Anderson and great- grandson Aiden Horst, her parents Lena and Harold and four siblings Rita Schmidt, Theola Hofseth, Ordean Mattson, and infant Harold Mattson.

 She is survived by her six children, Jon Anderson (Debbie), Kristine Stevens (Ted), and Nadine Horst (Larry), Vincent Anderson, Elizabeth Nelson (Kent), Kurt Anderson (Kristen); seventeen grandchildren Benaiah Anderson (Kate) , Jake Anderson (Jami) and Leah Anderson (Jason Dellasega), Sarah Ngoh and Lydia Mercer (Jason), Adam Horst (Jenny) and Aaron Horst (Cara), Kayleigh Hubbard, Kevin Anderson (Kierstin) and Kjersten Anderson, Leif Nelson (Emily), Knute Nelson, Haley Nelson and Lena Perez (Joseph), Luke Anderson (Katie), Daniel Anderson and Julia Anderson and 23 great- grandchildren with one on the way; Ellie and Lily Anderson, Ruby, JJ and Hannah Anderson, Anderson, Lyndal and Thomas Dellasega, Sala Young and Isaac Ngoh and Mikah Young, Olivia, Eden and Jason Z. Mercer, Jackson, Landon and Alyssa Horst, Luna and Vida Horst, Lucy Anderson, baby Perez on the way, Emma, Seth and Mia Anderson; three of her siblings, Josephine Arneson, Martha Welch, Esther Brown and many nieces and nephews.

 The family thanks the staff of both Via Christi Village and Accord Hospice for their kindness and diligent care of Betty through the years.

 The family will greet friends during a visitation from 5:30 until 7:00p.m. Friday June 26, 2026, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.

 Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Riley Cemetery in Riley, Kansas.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sedalia Community Church Youth Group or Tusonge Ministries (Uganda). 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

Iona Drake Learned (Posted 6/16/2026)

Iona Drake Learned, age 93, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, at Homestead Assisted Living in Manhattan, KS.

Born on December 5, 1932, in Kansas City, MO, Iona was the daughter of Thomas Sumner Drake and Beatrice June (Leach) Drake and the youngest of nine children. As a young girl, her family moved to a farm near Tonganoxie, KS, where she developed a deep love for country life. She often shared fond memories of riding her beloved horse, Pal, to grade school. During her school years, she was active in cheerleading and graduated from Basehor High School with the Class of 1950.

On January 30, 1953, Iona married the love of her life, Robert E. Learned Jr., in Basehor, KS. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and love, raising four children: Rebecca (Jeff) Cowley, Mindy (Pat) Milligan , Rob Learned, and Joan (Phil) Hoover. Iona was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bob; her siblings, Vern, Jayne, Nadene, Bonnie, Maurice, Jean, Betty, and Tom; and her son-in-law, Pat. She is survived by her four children, nine grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, all of which brought her joy and happiness – “aww”!

A proud member of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, Iona was deeply devoted to her faith and church community. She faithfully volunteered with St. Paul’s Episcopal Church through the Altar Guild, the Encore Shop, and as a member of the Daughters of the King. Her servant’s heart and steadfast faith touched countless lives.

Many cherished memories were made at Grandma and Grandpa’s house, where summers were spent swimming in the pool, sharing meals, and playing games late into the night. Her home was a place of comfort, conversation, laughter, and treasured family recipes that continue to bring loved ones together today.

To her family, Iona was more than a mother and grandmother, she was the heart of the family. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome, loved, and accepted. Her faith guided her life, her kindness touched everyone she met, and her love for her family knew no bounds.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 21, 2026, from 4:00 until 5:00p.m. at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with an interment at the Oak Hill Cemetery at 3:00 p.m. in Lawrence, KS.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church or Good Shepherd Homecare & Hospice. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.

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

 

Robert Reeves (Posted 6/15/2026)

Robert Reeves, beloved husband, father, grandfather, professor, mentor, rancher, and faithful servant of God, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior on June 4, 2026, at the age of 84. With joyful anticipation, Robert looked forward to being reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife, Sue, whose love and partnership were the greatest blessings of his life.

Born on January 14, 1942 to parents Samuel Winston Reeves and Annie Letha Reeves and raised in Lubbock, Texas, Robert enjoyed a rich and adventurous childhood. He and his younger brother, Sam, spent countless hours working alongside his parents in their businesses, including a pioneering photo-engraving operation—an innovative technology for its time and place—as well as the family camera store. He also helped care for the horses on the family estate, developing a lifelong love of the land and the outdoors.

Robert and his brother were taught to fly by their father, Winston, and Robert earned his pilot’s license as a teenager. The family often transported their horses to the Reeves ranch in the mountains near Las Vegas, New Mexico, where many treasured memories were made amid the beauty of the Southwest.

Robert attended Texas Tech University before pursuing graduate studies at Iowa State University, where he earned his Ph.D. in Nutrition. While in Ames, Iowa, he met the love of his life, Sue. They married July 29, 1967 in Norman, Oklahoma, and built a remarkable life together grounded in faith, family, service, and love. Their family grew with the arrival of their two sons, Alan and Sherman, who were the pride and joy of their lives.

The majority of Robert’s professional career was spent at Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas, where he served as Professor of Nutritional Science. An internationally published researcher and dedicated educator, Robert made significant contributions to his field. Yet among his many accomplishments, one of the titles he cherished most was advisor to pre-medical students. Drawn throughout his life to the medical profession, he devoted himself to guiding and encouraging countless young men and women as they pursued careers in medicine. Many physicians today owe part of their journey to Robert’s wisdom, counsel, and unwavering belief in their potential.

His sons fondly remember visiting their father’s research laboratory, where they occasionally got to “help” with the rats involved in his bench research. They also remember the many family adventures that took them to every corner of the United States, with Robert behind the wheel of the family station wagon and a pop-up tent trailer faithfully following behind.

Faith was the cornerstone of Robert’s life. He was deeply involved in his church and counted his church friends among his and Sue’s dearest companions. Together, he and Sue led a young married couples’ Bible study, investing in generations of families. Robert also as served as a church deacon, participated in a local prison ministry, and was a longtime member of Gideons International, living out his faith with quiet devotion and unwavering commitment. His trust in God guided his decisions, shaped his character, and served as a lamp for his life.

After retiring early from academia, Robert embraced a second career managing family farms, ranches, mineral interests, and land holdings across Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. He took particular pride in the cotton farms near Brownfield, Texas, and found great satisfaction in preserving both the productivity and the history of lands that had been entrusted to his family’s care for generations.

In later years, Robert and Sue shared a passion for travel, exploring destinations around the globe together. Wherever they went, cameras were never far away, and they returned home with treasured photographs documenting both remarkable places and cherished moments together.

Robert will be remembered for his kindness, humility, gentle laughter, intellectual curiosity, steadfast faith, and deep devotion to those he loved. He was a teacher by profession, a mentor by calling, and a friend to many. His life touched countless students, colleagues, church members, friends, and family members, leaving a legacy that will continue for generations.

He is survived by his sons, Alan Robert Reeves, M.D. and his wife, Cheryl, of Lenexa, Kansas, and Sherman Winston Reeves, M.D. and his wife, Becky, of Orono, Minnesota. He also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Carson, Brynn, Alexa, Morgan, and Grant Reeves, as well as a large community of friends, colleagues, and former students who were blessed to know him.

Though he will be deeply missed, those who loved Robert take comfort in the promise he held dear: that he is now in the presence of Jesus Christ and joyfully reunited with his beloved Sue.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Memorial service arrangements are currently pending and will be announced at a later date. Interment will take place at Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International, the Meadowlark Hills Good Samaritan Fund, or the Alzheimer’s Association. Contributions may be left in care of Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Billy Dale Birk (Posted 6/15/2026)

Billy Dale Birk (Bill), 99, long time resident of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on June 12th, 1926 in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.

He was born July 17th, 1926 in Wamego, the son of Carl and Florence Birk.

Bill graduated from Wamego High School in 1944 and enlisted in the United States Navy the next day to serve in combat during WW2. He worked many years as the head of the engineering department at Balderson, Inc. in Wamego.

Bill enjoyed playing golf, watching sports, watching history programs and reading history books. Bill also enjoyed drawing and was an amateur cartoonist. While in school he would draw in his text books. He probably would have gotten better grades if he had read the text books.

Bill married Velva Jean Stroble on June 11, 1948. They remained together until Jean passed on January 31, 2014. Together they had four children: Tim (Barbara, deceased and Jill), Koko aka Colleen (Mel), Dan (Debbie) and Jeff (Laura). Bill’s children gave him nine grandchildren: Jarad Falk (Christine), Adam Falk (Barbara), Bryan Falk (Sarah), Eric Falk (Mecah) Ashley Birk, Courtney Birk, Preston Birk (Jessica) Kim Birk-Duncan (Patrick) and Anna Fosmire (Bill). Bill also has fifteen great-grandchildren: Sophie Falk, Meredith Falk, Helene Falk, Maxine Falk, Leana Falk, Cate Falk, Gabby Falk, Jack Falk, Jed Falk, Liam Falk, Anderson Falk, Desmond Birk, June Duncan, Jackson Fosmire and Grace Fosmire.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Florence, his sister Marilyn Gallagher and his wife Jean.

Funeral service will be held Thursday morning (June 18, 2026) at 11:00 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Wamego with Mother Casey Rohleder officiating.  Burial with Military Honors by the U. S. Navy Funeral Honors Detail and the Wamego American Legion Post No. 172 will be in Wamego City Cemetery.  A light luncheon will be served in the Guild Hall following the graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church or the Wamego American Legion Post No. 172.  Please make checks payable to the organization and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS  66547.

William David “Bill” Carson (Posted 6/13/2026)

William David “Bill” Carson, 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on June 7, 2026, at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas. Born on March 5, 1941, in Timpson, Texas, Bill lived a life marked by dedication to his family, faith, and entrepreneurial spirit.

 At a young age, Bill’s family moved to Brookport Illinois where he attended Brookport High School. Along with academics, Bill excelled in both baseball and basketball. Bill pursued higher education at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky. Bill’s love of sports continued through these years leading him to a brief stint playing semi-pro baseball for a team based in Paducah Kentucky. After his time in Kentucky, Bill moved to Tulsa Oklahoma and was employed in the construction and aeronautics industries. During that time, he met the love of his life, Norma Hergott and the two were married in 1965.

 In 1969, Bill and Norma moved to Manhattan Kansas and founded Carson Home Sales, a business he successfully operated and grew until his retirement in 2001. Beyond his primary business endeavors, Bill invested in and contributed to the development of several other businesses in Manhattan and the surrounding areas. His entrepreneurial achievements were a testament to his vision and determination.

 A devoted family man, Bill was predeceased by his beloved wife Norma, his father Henry, mother Mary, and sister Nancy. He is survived by his sister Sharon -her daughters Lori and Leiandra, his three sons – Michael, Andy, and John as well as Andy’s wife Allison Disbrow, and John’s wife Brook Howard-Carson – All of which were a source of immense pride for him. Bill also cherished his role as a grandfather to Chloe, Adalyn, Sophia, Reece, Luke, Davis, Easton, Brooklyn, Rowan, and Maddox. He found great joy in supporting the various activities and sports that his sons and grandchildren participated in over the years.

 Bill was an avid upland bird hunter and golfer who relished time spent outdoors. His hobbies reflected his love for nature and camaraderie. A man of deep faith who accepted Christ as his savior, Bill attended Westview Community Church and lived out his beliefs through his love of family, kindness, generosity, and zest for life.

Known for his caring nature and unwavering support for youth sports programs, Bill left an indelible mark on those who knew him. His legacy as a loving father, grandfather, successful entrepreneur, and community supporter will be remembered fondly.

 The family will greet friends from 5:30 until 7:30p.m. Monday June 22, 2026 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan.

 May William David “Bill” Carson’s memory bring comfort to all who had the privilege of knowing him. A Funeral will be held on June 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Westview Community Church, 615 Gillespie Drive in Manhattan

 Interment will follow at Sunrise Cemetery 2901 Stagg Hill Road in Manhattan. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for 1:00 PM at the Colbert Hills Clubhouse, 5200 Colbert Hills Drive in Manhattan on Tuesday June 22.

 In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the GMCF – Manhattan Parks and Recreation Foundation to support scholarships for youth sports activities. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502. www.ymlfuneralhome.com

Leanne Bigler (Posted 6/12/2026)

Leanne Bigler, 73 of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away on February 14, 2026 at Home in Manhattan. Arrangements are in the care of Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home,1616 Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan. Inurnment, 1:00 P.M., Saturday, June 20, 2026 at the Ashland Cemetery, 4830McDowell Creek Road, Manhattan. Followed by A Celebration of Life Service at the Ashland School House,2901 W. 32nd Avenue, Ashland Bottoms Manhattan. Memorial contributions to the Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502. Online condolences atwww.ymlfuneralhome.com.