Lester (Gene) Moherman (Posted 5/16/25)
Lester Eugene (Gene) Moherman, 84, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025. He was born on May 11, 1941, in Emporia, Kansas, to Lester and Annetta Moherman. His family moved to Manhattan when he was just four years old, where he spent the majority of his life.
Gene met the love of his life, Shirley Dee Thompson, when she stopped into his Aggieville gas station in early 1962 to get her car serviced. Shirley was working at K-State, and the story goes that after she dropped her car off that day and walked across the street to campus, his eyes followed her until she was out of sight. Gene and Shirley married in Almena, KS on June 23, 1963, and shared almost 62 years of life together. They had three beautiful daughters, Jodi, Holli, and Lesli, and throughout their lives they also shared the love of numerous pets, most recently Willie and Mollie. They loved to go for Sunday drives, enjoyed many wonderful weekends out in their pontoon boat, and were avid KSU football fans. They loved spending time with family and friends, whether at family reunions in Wellsville or Almena, or on their back deck with Gene’s famous ribs (made with his homemade barbeque sauce) and Shirley’s delicious meringue pies.
Gene’s sharp intellect and keen eye for detail propelled him to the top of his field in contract glass. Over the course of his career, he successfully secured bids for major facilities such as the Denver International Airport, the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, OK, as well as numerous buildings around Manhattan and in the state of Kansas, including Phase 1 & 2 of Bill Snyder Stadium, Junction City High School, and the KSU School of Business. He dedicated his life’s work to the glass industry, as an estimator for Harding Glass, with roles in Manhattan, KS; Joplin and Springfield, MO; and Denver, CO. After relocating to Manhattan, KS, he joined Manko Window Systems in 2003, ultimately rising to the position of Senior Contract Estimator. Gene’s meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to excellence left a lasting mark on the industry.
Gene was known for his kind and generous spirit, his sense of humor, his love for family, and his unwavering work ethic. Outside of his professional life, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially when hunting or fishing. As someone who loved sharing stories and had a wealth of knowledge on most any subject, Gene never met a stranger – he loved to know where people were from and could easily make connections with everyone he met. He was deeply respected by friends and colleagues alike, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A beloved husband, dad, and papa, Gene is survived by his devoted wife, Shirley; daughters Jodi (Todd) Boyd of Topeka, Holli Moherman of Wichita, and Lesli Hammang of Thornton, CO; his grandchildren, Hayley, Abby, Max, and Will; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, classmates, friends, and a sister. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son-in-law, John Hammang.
The family will greet friends during a visitation on Tuesday, May 20th from 6-7:30pm at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 21st at 10am at the First Presbyterian Church in Manhattan. Graveside services to follow at Sunrise Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Gene to the Good Shepherd Hospice House or to the First Presbyterian Church Moherman Family Memorial Fund 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
Carl Blankley (Posted 5/16/25)
Carl H. Blankley, 55, of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday (May 13, 2025) at his home.
Born June 13, 1969 on the couch of his uncle, Wayne Blankley, in Manhattan, Kansas, Carl was the son of Raymond D. and Joleen (Havenstein) Blankley.
Carl was a 1988 graduate of Wamego High School. He was employed for nearly 30 years with MCM as a heavy equipment operator.
He was an avid fisherman and loved working his land. Carl had a heart for all animals but especially loved horses, goats and the many dogs who were his faithful companions over the years.
Survivors include his sister, Diane Dawson of Wamego; his brother, Tim Blankley (Jackie) of St. Petersburg, FL; a niece, Jessica McIntosh (Chris) and two great nephews Maverick and Maddox of Tipp City, OH; a nephew, Joshua Blankley of Dayton, OH; two aunts, Shirley Roudybush of Auburn, KS and LaReta Havenstein of Flush, KS; an uncle, John W. “Bill” Blankley (Billie) of Manhattan, KS; and many cousins.
Carl was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond & Joleen; his brother in law, Dean Dawson; and several aunts and uncles.
Funeral services will be held Friday morning (May 16, 2025) at 10:30 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego with Pastor Jol Klein officiating. Burial will be in the Louisville Cemetery.
Visitation will be Thursday evening (May 15, 2025) from 6:00 to 7:30 at the funeral home in Wamego.
Memorials are suggested to Purple PAWS. Please make checks payable to Purple PAWS and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.
Lawrence (Larry) Arnold Deppish (05/15/25)
Lawrence (Larry) Arnold Deppish , 81, of Junction City, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, surrounded by family and loved ones. Born on June 1, 1943, he lived a full and vibrant life rooted in service, creativity, and deep connection to his community.
As a young man, he began his working life at the Junction City Bottling Company, where his strong work ethic and easygoing nature quickly made him a valued part of the team. But it was on the stage of the Junction City Little Theater where his love of performance and storytelling shined. In his 20s and 30s, he took on many roles, most memorably portraying King Arthur in Camelot, a role he cherished and often fondly recalled.
He later served the Junction City community as a funeral director and embalmer, offering comfort and care during families’ most difficult times. With a compassionate heart and steady hands, he helped others navigate grief with dignity and peace.
A spirited traveler, he spent 15 years on the road with Impact Marketing, an experience that fed his lifelong love of exploration and allowed him to forge friendships across the country. Whether it was a small town or a big city, he found joy in discovering new places and meeting new people.
Music was the heartbeat of his life. He lent his rich, heartfelt voice to the Keynotes and the Notables, and sang at countless weddings and funerals, using his gift to bring comfort, joy, and reverence. He often said music was the way he spoke to the soul.
In his later years, he enjoyed working in the hardware department at Menards, where he remained a friendly and familiar face, always ready to help with a warm smile and a story or two.
He will be remembered for his generous spirit, quick wit, deep compassion, and the music he brought into the world. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, laughter, and song.
He is survived by his son, Scott Deppish (Cindi), his daughter, Stacey Rucker, his grandsons, Josh Resto (Carrie) and Nicholas Fournier (Halley) and his granddaughters, Kelly Deppish-Farley and Megan Landry (Kit) in addition to 18 great-grandchildren and 7 great great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held on June 28th, 2025 at 11 am at the First Presbyterian Church in Junction City, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to either St Jude’s hospital or the ASPCA.
His song may have ended, but the melody lingers on.
Irvin Parkview Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Carol Walker (Posted 5/15/25)
Carol Susan Walker passed away peacefully on Monday, May 12, 2025, in Manhattan, Kansas, at the age of 71.
Carol was born on September 1, 1953, to Jack Davis and Lorain May (Trimmer) Davis. She grew up in Scandia, Kansas, where she graduated from high school before pursuing higher education. Carol earned an Associate of Science degree from Cloud County Community College in Concordia, Kansas, followed by an Associate Degree in Nursing from Barton County Community College in Great Bend, Kansas.
A compassionate and dedicated caregiver, Carol worked as a registered nurse at Baylor Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, before moving to Manhattan, Kansas, where she served patients at Mercy Regional Health Center for over 20 years.
Carol married Terry Pierce Walker on August 11, 2007. Together, they shared a beautiful blended family and many cherished years.
Carol was a loving mother to her three sons: William “Kip” Wilson (Jessica), Douglas Wilson (Abigail), and Dillon Schwerdt (Victoria). She is also survived by her brother Jack Davis (Kathy) of Topeka, Kansas; nieces Kylie Davis and Kristian Stevens (Alan); and Terry’s sons: Troy Walker (Shonda), Matt Walker (Sara), and Adam Walker (Rebecca). She was a proud grandmother to 21 grandchildren, all of whom brought her endless joy.
Carol loved gardening, spending time with her family, and caring for her two beloved dachshunds, Frank and Margaret. She was known for her gentle spirit, compassionate heart, and steady presence. Her memory will live on in the lives of those she touched.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Terry, and her sister-in-law, Linda Davis.
A celebration of Carol’s life will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at 2918 Nevada St., Manhattan, KS 66502
Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502, are assisting the family with arrangements.
Judith Grossnickle (Posted 5/15/25)
Judith Ann (Milligan) Grossnickle, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and community member, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025, in Manhattan, Kansas at the age of 78.
Born July 6, 1946, at Camp Lee, Virginia, to Aubrey Vaugh Milligan and Jean Catherine (Andreson) Milligan, Judy grew up in a military family and lived in many places across the world, including France, Florida, California’s Presidio, and Kansas. She graduated from Lucky High School and went on to serve as a civil servant at Fort Riley until her retirement in 1995.
On February 11, 1967, Judy married the love of her life, Galen Dennis Grossnickle (aka Dennis Grossnickle), with whom she shared 58 wonderful years of marriage. Together they raised two children, Joseph Grossnickle and Angelique (Grossnickle) Reilly, and were blessed with six grandchildren and their wives—Alex and Ryan & Michaiah (Jones) Grossnickle, Dylan & Taylor (Richert), Jason, Taryn, and Loren Reilly—and two great-grandchildren, Caden and Oliver Reilly.
Judy was an active and passionate member of her community. Her heart was deeply rooted in her Catholic faith as a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Ogden, Kansas. She also devoted her time to numerous organizations, including the Daughters of the American Revolution, the National Society of Colonial Dames, the Daughters of the American Colonists, and the Catholic Lumen Series.
Judy’s greatest joy and lifelong passion was square dancing. A proud member of the Long Wranglers Square Dance Club and was inducted into the Kansas Square Dance Hall of Fame, she championed the activity at local, regional, and national levels—attending countless national conventions. She was honored for her significant contributions to the Square Dance Callers Association of America and served as an advocate and enthusiastic promoter of the square dance community.
In addition to dancing, she found joy in traveling with family and friends, often touring cities by Segway with Dennis. She also loved scrapbooking, tending to flowers, and volunteering—particularly at Via Christi Hospital, where she brought comfort and companionship to many. Judy also served as the former president of the 60+ Club and was a spirited member of NARFE.
She will be remembered for her sense of humor, her loyalty, and the phrase she often shared with a smile: “Don’t look at my cards.” Fiercely loyal to the people and causes she loved, Judy’s legacy is one of joy, service, and spirited celebration.
She is survived by her husband Dennis; her children Joe and Ange; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her sister Nina (Milligan) Perry; and many beloved nieces and nephews: Carolyn Mixon, Lee Mixon, Jeffery Mixon, Chris Grossnickle, David Grossnickle, Cindy Grossnickle, Jennifer Collins, Joseph Collins, Joshua Collins, Holly (Perry) Gardener, Brad Perry, Emily (Mahan) Perry, Jessica Jackson, and Eric Jackson. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Susan, and her brother Aubrey.
A public funeral Mass will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Ogden, Kansas. A Rosary and viewing will be held the evening prior, Sunday, May 18, at 5:30 p.m. at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS, the Rosary will be held at 7:00p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church or the Alzheimer’s Association. Should friends and loved ones choose to send flowers, they will be received with gratitude and donated to residents at Via Christi Village, where Judy spent her final four years.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502 is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com
Gary Kerr (Posted 5/8/25)
Gary Lee Kerr, 56, of Wamego, Kansas passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on May 2, 2025. He was born on August 5, 1968 in Great Bend, Kansas to Duane and Ruth Kerr.
He graduated from Wamego, Kansas in 1986 and married Lisa Woolard February 14, 1987. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, along with their children
Leif Kerr (April) and Desiree Kerr (Joe); his parents; sister Terra Miller (Ben); niece Kaia; nephews Isaac and Elliot; aunt Nancy; cousins Kim, Lori, Jay, and Kerri; and numerous honorary family members.
He will be remembered for his love of music, big heart, sharp sense of humor, and the deep and lasting impact he had on everyone lucky enough to know him.
He was a man who always thought of others first—caring, generous, and deeply devoted to family. His home provided a sense of security, embracing those in need with steady strength and genuine compassion.
An incredible cook, he was known for preparing large meals – just one of the many ways he brought people together. He had a gift for connection, talking to anyone, anywhere, and making everyone feel welcome and comfortable.
His favorite sayings—lovingly known as “Gary isms”—included:
“It is what it is,”
“Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do,”
“Just say the word and I’ll make them disappear,”
“What’s the worst that can happen?,”
“You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it f*** a camel,”
and of course, “Coo Coo Ca Choo.”
These quips captured his humor.
He was passionate about music—not just as a performer, but as a connector of people. He used his talents to organize benefit concerts for those facing health challenges, and through every song he played, he brought joy, energy, and unity. He was in many bands from 1986 to 2023: Blade Runner, Mantis, Valiant, Two For the Show, Redline, Dark Horse, Freak Accident, Standing Hampton, and Mother’s Worry.
He was also deeply passionate about nature, with a wealth of knowledge about wildlife. A patient and curious soul, he was a thinker who loved learning, processing information, and sharing what he knew. He believed in kindness above all and reminded others that life is about loving one another. He always made people laugh, feel seen, and feel at home. He was wise, kind, funny, and endlessly generous. His memory will live on through every life he touched, every meal shared, every song played, and every act of kindness passed forward.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 4:00pm at Blackjack Hills, 13450 Chapman Rd, St George, KS 66535.
Irvin Parkview Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Ruth Linenberger (Posted 5/8/25)
Ruth Naomi Linenberger was taken home to be with the Lord on May 4, 2025 at the age of 80 from complications of a stroke.
Ruth was born July 20,1944 in Prince George County, VA to Edward and Jean Chappell both have preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband of 51 years James ”Jim” Linenberger. Ruth has one surviving sister Esther (Lee) Alan Shinglehouse, PA.
She is preceded in death by two brothers Walter (Ruth-living) Chappell and Gene (Ava) Chappell and a sister Linda Taylor. Ruth is survived by many nieces and nephews which she cherished in her life.
Ruth met James Linenberger in Atlanta GA and the couple married on June 16, 1973 in Richmond, VA. They resided in Manhattan Kansas for 40 years. Ruth was preceded in death by her two sons Edward Anthony Linenberger in 1994 and Everett Bryan Linenberger in 2011.
Ruth attended elementary and high school in Chester, Virginia and graduated from Manhattan Area Technical College in 1992 and received an Associate’s Degree from Cloud County Community College in 1993.
Ruth was a homemaker and loved doing crafts and dry/silk flower arranging in her spare time. Ruth was an avid crappie fisherwomen and boater for many years.
Traveled faithfully for years connecting with family/friends in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Arizona, and Kansas.
Ruth moved to North Port, Florida in 2013 following her husband’s retirement where they enjoyed the warm winters, beaches, the many seafood restaurants in the area.
Ruth valued family, neighbors, and friends everywhere.
Ruth embraced a relationship with Jesus Christ, her Lord and savior. She gave and received spiritual support to Jimmy Swaggart ministries and treasured joining together with their praise music and worship team from her home.
Ruth reflected love of Jesus and scripture. One of her favorite scriptures is Proverbs 3: 5-6.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Prs 3:5-6
A visitation will be held on Wednesday May 14, 2025 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan from 6:00 until 7:30p.m.
Private interment will be held at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
In lieu of flowers, please leave memorial contributions in Ruth’s name to be distributed to Tidewell Hospice, American Stroke Foundation, and Awaken Church Food Pantry. 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
Thomas Whalen (Posted 5/8/25)
Thomas Joseph Whalen, age 76, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2025.
Tom is survived by his wife, Ronnie, his daughter, Molly Nick, son-in-law Chris Nick, two grandchildren, Tyler and Allie; his brother Pat Whalen and sister-in-law Peggy, his sister, Kathy Whalen and brother-in-law, Joe McCarthy; nephews Tim Whalen, Brian Whalen and wife, Sarah Whalen and nieces Katie Whalen, Kallie McCarthy, and Jennifer Otis.
His sister, Joan Otis, preceded him in death.
Tom was born October 15, 1948, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of John and Jane (McAuliffe) Whalen. He attended elementary and high school in St. Louis, graduating from Bishop DuBourg Highschool in 1967. Outside of school, Tom was active in athletics, playing soccer, baseball, and coaching soccer. He enjoyed scouting where he reached the rank of Eagle and served as a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 158.
After high school, Tom attended Quincy College in Quincy Illinois. He graduated with a degree in Business Administration in 1971. While in college, Tom met the love of his life, Mary Veronica (Ronnie) King. They were married on April 8, 1972, in Cleveland, Ohio. They had a wonderful life together for 53 years.
After college, Tom began his work with the F. W. Woolworth Co. as a management trainee at numerous stores in the St. Louis area. He was promoted to store manager at the store in Arkansas City, Kansas and then to Manhattan, Kansas. He left the company in 1981.
Tom then served as the general manager at the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce. He was involved in various aspects of the Chamber including SCORE/ACE, retail development, economic development, military relations, and Ambassadors. He was the Executive Director of the Future Manhattan Leadership Program, now known as Leadership Manhattan. After leaving the Chamber staff, Tom stayed involved in Ambassador, Member of the Board of Directors, committee member and received the Volunteer of the Year Award in 1990.
Tom went to work in 1988 as a management trainee at the Kansas Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co. Over the years he became a life insurance underwriter before being promoted to Senior Underwriter and then Underwriting Manager.
In 2005, Tom took early retirement from Kansas Farm Bureau and went to work for Empire General Life Insurance Co. for a brief time before accepting a position with the Kansas Insurance Department. He started as a policy examiner and was later promoted to Director of the Producer Licensing Division before retiring in 2015.
Tom’s community activity was varied and extensive, including United Way board member and president, RSVP advisory board member, Riley County Community Corrections advisory board, UFM board member, Planning Board member and Chair, City of Manhattan youth soccer and softball coach, as well as, coaching a Little Apple Soccer team for several years.
Tom was a dedicated and hard-working employee and community volunteer. He deeply loved his family and friends. Throughout his life and through his illness, family and friends offered love and support in a multitude of ways. Tom carried that love with him.
The family will greet friends during a visitation from 10:30 until 11:30a.m. Tuesday May 13, 2025, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.
Memorial service will follow the visitation on Tuesday starting at 11:30a.m. at the funeral home. Private inurnment will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to The University of Kansas Health System, Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice or Flint Hills Breadbasket. 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
Roger Nauerth (Posted 5/7/25)
Roger Lynn Nauerth, age 78, of Manhattan, passed away Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the St. Francis Hospital in Wichita.
Roger was born on March 4, 1947, in Manhattan, the son of Wesley Carl and Marian Evelyn (Nelson) Nauerth. He was raised on the family farm southwest of Keats and graduated from Riley County High School in 1965. He played all sports, but wrestling is what he truly loved and excelled at. Roger continued his education at KSU. Roger worked alongside his parents on their dairy farm in Keats and continued farming with them on Hunter’s Island. Roger continued their farm until his passing.
Roger married his high school sweetheart, Donita Jean Ford on December 23, 1967. They had two children, Jill and Joel. Donita preceded Roger in death in 2004. Roger married Brenda Sue Johnson on July 16, 2022, after knowing each other for years.
Music was important to Roger, and he was in a barbershop quartet in the 1970’s, touring the state of Kansas. He made a lifetime of memories being a part of the Vanhattan Van Club in the 1980’s. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, and was an avid K-State fan and cheered on the Cats at many bowl games. Roger earned the nickname “Grill Master” for his exceptional grilling and smoking culinary creations.
He is survived by his wife, Brenda Nauerth; his two children, Joel Nauerth (Deb) of Manhattan and Jill Cabrera (Mario) of Buford, Georgia; one sister, Janet Moberly of Mill Creek, Washington; and one grandson, Noah Gray.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Donita Nauerth.
A celebration of Roger’s life will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Sedalia Community Church. A family visitation will be held on Friday, May 9 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home in Riley. Inurnment will take place at a later date at the Sedalia Cemetery.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
Mary Lynn Hughes (Posted 5/7/25)
Mary Lynn Hughes passed away May 3, 2025, at the Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, she was 81 years old.
Mary was born on December 11, 1943, in Wichita, Kansas the daughter of Frank and Leah Young. Following high school she attended the Brown Mackie Business College in Salina.
She was united in marriage to Gerald Hughes on March 28, 1964. He survives at their home in Manhattan.
Marry worked a variety of jobs throughout her life. She worked at Kansas State University, the DPRA, and PPI. After retiring Mary enjoyed staying busy, she was always volunteering to help with as much as she could.
She and Jerry enjoyed traveling. They went to many countries over the years and attended many K-State football games. Mary and Jerry were member of the Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church in Manhattan.
Mary was preceded in death by her son Darren in 2004.
In addition to her husband Jerry, she is also survived by her son Steve.
The family will greet friends during a visitation on Monday May 12, 2025, at the Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church in Manhattan starting at 10:00a.m.
Funeral services will be held at the church following the visitation starting at 11:00a.m. Interment will follow the service at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
Memorial contributions in memory of Mary are suggested the Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice. 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
Gerald Humes (Posted 5/7/25)
Gerald “Jerry” Allan Humes passed away and went to his Heavenly Home on May 4, 2025. At the time of his death, he was at home in Manhattan, surrounded by his immediate family.
Jerry was born in Centerville, Mississippi on January 28, 1942. He was the middle son of Fred and Francis Humes. At the time of his birth, Jerry’s father was a Navy Chief Warrant Officer fighting in the Pacific Theatre during World War II.
After graduating from Chicora High School in North Charleston, South Carolina, Jerry attended Greenville Junior College. Following his time at Greenville, Jerry enlisted in the United States Air Force. His hope for joining the Air Force was to see the world instead he was immediately stationed in a missile silo 200 feet below the earth at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, KS. While not his dream duty station, Jerry met the love of his life, Janice Kay Moore in 1965.
After his honorable service in the Air Force, Jerry graduated from Wichita State University and began his career as an Operations Manager at the Alliance Restaurant Corporation. In 1996 he transitioned to Manhattan, KS, and became the owner/operator of Ben Franklin Crafts and Frame Shop. His business card title was, “Humble Shop Keeper.” In his retirement years he became a beloved Substitute Teacher at Manhattan High School.
His priority was his relationship with Jesus and serving Him in many ways throughout his life. He served for many years as a Deacon, an Elder, a Sunday School Teacher, and once in the nursery.
He was involved with The Gideons, and supported Teaching Truth International and Ethiopian missions. When not working, at church or spending time with his family, Jerry enjoyed playing softball, racquetball, working in the yard and studying scripture.
Jerry was preceded in death by his father, mother, father-in-law Kenneth Moore, and mother-in-law Mabel Moore. Also preceded by his brother-in-law’s Kerry Moore, Darryl Moore, and his sister-in-law Sheryl Downing.
There was nothing Jerry loved more in this world than his Family. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Janice. The couple had four children, Kristyne Elizabeth (John Hamilton), Jason Allan (Kari), David Aaron (Jill), and Nathan Dean (Jenny). Jerry and Janice are the Nani and Papa to 7 grandchildren. Elie (Donovan), Katy, Hannah, Jack, Jacob, Henry, and Max. They are also Nani and More Papa to Luther and Theron (sons of Elie and Donovan). Jerry is also survived by two brothers, Fred (Barbara) and George (Betty) and loved nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held on May 13, 2025, at 10:30am at Grace Baptist Church, 2901 Dickens Avenue in Manhattan, KS. Interment will follow at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at Fort Riley in Manhattan, KS.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Teaching Truth International. 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
Joe Hood (Posted 5/2/25)
Robert Joseph “Joe” Hood, 81, of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Thursday (May 1, 2025) at his home.
Born January 24, 1944 in Wamego, Kansas, Joe was the son of Robert Joseph and Isabelle (Seele) Hood Sr. He married Patricia L. Eckart on July 9, 1966 in St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Wamego. She survives.
Joe was a 1962 graduate of Wamego High School. He had a long career in sales starting with the Allis-Chalmers Implement Company in Topeka and later became self employed in auto sales in the Wamego area.
Joe was a member of the Wamego Senior Citizens. He had a soft spot in his heart for his pet cats “Willie” & “Breezy” and was an avid “car guy” who loved the older cars, especially his 1957 Chevy.
Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Patricia; four sisters in law, Sister Rosann Eckart O. S. B. of Atchison, KS, Catherine Ukena of Manhattan, KS, Mary Weeking (Jim) of Lenexa, KS and Annette Pierce of Wamego, KS; five brothers in law, John Eckart (Sandy) of Carmichael, CA, Stephen Eckart (Sue) of Versailles, MO, James Eckart (Betty) of Longmont, CO, Michael Eckart (Mary Lou) of Lynnwood, MO and Benedict Eckart (Jane) of Manhattan, KS; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his step father, John Wiltse; his half brother, Patrick Seele; his father in law and mother in law, Aloysius “Bub” and Winifred Eckart; and three brothers in law, Theodore “Ted” Eckart, Barry Pierce and Jerry Ukena.
Funeral services will be held Friday morning (May 9, 2025) at 10:30 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego with Fr. Michael Peterson officiating.
A graveside service will be Friday afternoon at 1:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery in Flush, Kansas.
Visitation will be Thursday evening (May 8, 2025) from 5:00 to 7:00 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.
Memorials are suggested to the charity of the donor’s choice. Please make checks payable to the charity you wish to donate to and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.
Sterling Gunter (Posted 5/2/25)
Sterling W. Gunter Jr., “Dub,” passed away Tuesday April 29, 2025, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan. He was 90 years old.
Dub was born on November 3, 1934, the son of Sterling W. Gunter Sr. and Lavonne Nina “Bonnie” (Temple) Gunter. He grew up in Manhattan, attending Bluemont Elementary School, then Manhattan Junior and Senior High School and graduated with the class of 1952. Dub then attended Kansas State College (KSU) and earned his bachelor’s degree in 1957. He was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity.
In 1955 while attending college he met Carol Lee Ernst. They were united in marriage on June 15, 1958, in Salina at The University Methodist Church. She survives at their home in Manhattan.
Dub was always a diligent person. While in high school he worked for the Manhattan Recreation Department and was a painter for his father with Gunter Painting and Paper Hanging. After college he worked for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company from 1957 until 1958 and then for Metropolitan Life Insurance Company from 1958 until 1962. In 1962 Dub began his career at Farm Bureau, where he was a Corporate Secretary/Operations Manager. He retired from Farm Bureau in 1996.
He served in the U.S. Army and then in the U.S. Army Reserves. He was also a past member of the IOOF in the 1960’s, a lifetime member of the KSU Alumni Association, Dub served on the KAIP/KAACP Governing Committee from 1975 until 2014 and was the Chairman from 1981-1996. He enjoyed playing golf and was a member of the Stagg Hill Golf Club and served on the Board for many years.
Dub was preceded in death by his parents and his son-in-law Robert Westgate.
In addition to his wife Carol, he is survived by his children: Connie Lynn Westgate, of Wamego, Sterling W. Gunter “Corky”, of Silver Lake, and Douglas Karl Gunter and his wife Monica, of Denton, Texas; also his grandchildren: Cassandra Brazzle (Pat), Christopher Westgate, Eric Westgate, Stacie Flippin (Cody), Hayden Gunter, and Connor Gunter; his great-grandchildren, Remmington Westgate, Ryleigh Westgate, Charlotte Brazzle, Carson Flippin, and Cole Flippin.; his sister, Rebekah Reece, and his brother, John Gunter; his nieces: Debra Hudelson Bland (Bart), Dana Aboulnasr (Medhat), Dee Ann Spiher (Douglas); his nephews: Phillip Spiker (Lynnee), Wyatt Gunter, Eli Gunter, Jay Stevenson (Marty), Don Stevenson (Melissa), and also his many cousins.
The family will greet friends during a visitation from 6:00 until 7:30p.m. Friday May 9, 2025, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00a.m. Saturday May 10, 2025, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel. Interment will follow at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
The family suggests memorial contributions in memory of Dub to the Prairie Paws Animal Shelter or the Wounded Warrior Project. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfunerahome.com