Obituaries

Daniel Dodge (Posted 3/10/26)

Daniel Ray Dodge, passed away on March 4, 2026, surrounded by loved ones on the family farm where he grew up, raised his family, and always called home. He was 73 years old. 

Dan (or Danny) was known for his strength of character, strong work ethic, and a willingness to help anyone who needed it. His quick wit, ornery sense of humor, body-shaking laugh, and big smile were his constant companions throughout every season of life. Dan Dodge simply did not believe in quitting until the job was done.

Dan’s dedication to his family was only matched by his strong faith in God. He married the love of his life, and best friend, Teresa, in June of 1972. He truly loved married life, and it showed. A marriage most only dream of, Dan and Teresa even cut their honeymoon short to go home early and start enjoying life on the farm. And that is exactly what they did. Together they shared everything life had to offer, in lockstep for the next 53+ years, until the day he passed, while raising their two sons, Darren and Justin, along the way.

Born in Manhattan, but raised a lifelong resident of Olsburg, Dan graduated from Blue Valley High School in 1970. He then attended Kansas State University, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science in the spring of 1974. 

Starting as a dairy farmer, his first love, Dan showed his absolute willingness to quickly adapt and do what was best for his family, and also the life of the farm, by switching to beef production when the industry started to change. In partnership with his father, Glenn Dodge, he farmed and raised cattle for more than 40 years on the same family farm in Olsburg (with his wife Teresa and mother Viola never far behind). He also worked at Parker Hannifin for many years, retiring as the quality control manager. 

Dan was an avid Kansas State sports fan, but nothing ever matched his love for life on the farm. He wanted to be a farmer from the day he was born. He especially cherished the 4th of July celebrations on the farm, surrounded by family and friends, who traveled in from all across the country, with plenty of loud fireworks, and even louder voices and laughter. It was often a week-long celebration, and it is still a family tradition today. 

Dan’s legacy lives on in the people he loved, the land he tended, and the countless moments of joy he shared with anyone fortunate enough to know him. Dan and Teresa together bravely fought a 40+ year war with Multiple Sclerosis, proving how strong their love and resolve truly was. His road was not an easy one, but Dan embraced every challenge that came his way and continued to touch lives long after the point where most would have simply given up.

Dan and Teresa would like to thank every single person who helped to support them along the way. Along with the strength they found in their unwavering faith in God, this truly was a team effort. Thank you all, and God bless you! 

Dan is survived by his wife Teresa Dodge of Olsburg, sister Lois (Gary) Hellebust of Olsburg, brother-in-law Darrell Hills of Manhattan, sisters-in-law Sandra McCool of Manhattan, and Jane Estabrook of Manhattan, sons Darren Dodge of Manhattan, and Justin Dodge of Olsburg, nieces and nephews: Lisa McCool of Burleson, TX, Casey McCool of Manhattan, Samantha (Jeff) Zerr of Manhattan, Mattie Hellebust of Olsburg, Jeb Hellebust of Olsburg, Stephen Estabrook of Burke, VT, Kathryn Estabrook of Miami, FL, Westin Hills of Manhattan, and Addison Hills of Manhattan.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn & Viola Dodge of Olsburg, and brother-in-law Martel McCool of Olsburg. 

A visitation will be held at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 7-9pm.

A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:30 am at Sedalia Community Church, followed by a small luncheon. Interment will follow at his family farm in Olsburg. 

Contributions may be made in Dan’s name to the Sedalia Community Church. They may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS, 66502.

Steven Moody (Posted 3/6/26)

Steven Duane Moody, 68, of Salina, Kansas, passed away on March 3, 2026, after a courageous 12-year battle with Lewy Body dementia.

Born July 12, 1957, in Salina, Steve grew up in the community he would spend a lifetime serving.

A graduate of Salina Central High School, he went on to build a distinguished 38-year career in fire and emergency services. He rose through the ranks to become Fire Chief of the Salina Fire Department, and later served as Fire Chief in Leavenworth, Emergency Management Director of Stafford County, and Fire Chief in El Dorado. Throughout his career, he was known for his dedication, his leadership, and his deep commitment to the safety and well-being of those around him.

Away from the firehouse, Steve was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather — quick with a laugh, never too tired to play catch with his sons, and always the first to help a neighbor or a stranger in need.

He is survived by his wife of nearly five decades, Rosie; sons Matthew and Weston; daughters-in-law Erin and Kiley; five grandchildren, Macoy, Vienna, Lennyn, Amaia, and Grayson; stepfather Dave Divilbiss; and brothers Mike Moody, Tim Green, and Dan Divilbiss.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rosemary Divilbiss and David Moody.

In accordance with his wishes, Steve donated his body to the University of Kansas Medical Center for medical research.

A vigil will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the St. Mary Parish Hall in Salina. A Memorial Mass will be held Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Queen of the Universe Catholic Church, 230 E. Cloud, Salina, Kansas 67401. Services are in care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home. Cards can be sent in care of the funeral home at P.O. Box 48, Wamego, Kansas 66547.

Alan Wagner (Posted 3/4/26)

Alan (Al) Robert Wagner, age 95, of Manhattan, passed away March 3, 2026, at the Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community – Bramlage House in Manhattan.

Al was born on August 24, 1930, in Randolph, Kansas, the son of Harold and Mabel (Axelton) Wagner. He grew up in the Randolph area and graduated from Randolph High School with the class of 1949.

On April 28, 1962, in Manhattan, he was united in marriage to Marilyn Fair. She survives at their home in Manhattan.

Al worked for many years at Sears in Manhattan. He sold a variety of appliances to people over the years. He enjoyed the relationships he made with the people and was always willing to help them as often as possible. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Manhattan and a long-time member of the Elks Club.

He was loved by his family, and they will miss the many memories they made over the years with him.

He was preceded in death by his brother Neil Wagner and his son-in-law Malo Eteuini.

Al is survived by his wife Marilyn; his children: Ravae McDowell Eteuini and Robert Wagner (Becky); also, his sister Josephine White; his three grandchildren: Nasari Eteuini (Ifeoma), Cody Wilks (Taylor), and Katie Wagner and two great-grandchildren: Addison Wilks and Paityn Wilks.

The family will greet friends during a visitation from 6:00 until 7:00p.m. Friday March 6 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30a.m. Saturday March 7, at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Al are suggested to the Meadowlark Hills Foundation. 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

Kevin “Otto” Hensley (Posted 3/3/26)

Kevin Wayne “Otto” Hensley, 65, of Manhattan, passed away February 28, 2026.

He was born on April 27, 1960 in Manhattan to Clair Burdette and Patsy Lee (Shaver) Hensley.

Kevin is survived by his children, Haley, Tyson, and Ashley, and grandson’s, Tyler and Mason, sister, Teresa, and brother, Jamey.

Services are pending and Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan is in charge of arrangements.

To leave an online condolence visit ymlfuneralhome.com

Norma Jean Gillespie (Posted 3/2/26)

Norma Jean “Jean” Gillespie, 99, of Manhattan, died Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan.

She was born June 13, 1926, in Lyons, Kansas.

Jean’s husband, Vincent Elliott “Mike” Gillespie, and grandson John Michael Seltzer preceded her in death.

Survivors include her son, Michael Claude Gillespie and his wife, Susan Linder Gillespie, of Manhattan; daughter Kathryn Nell Seltzer of Overland Park; granddaughter Mary Kathryn Seltzer and her husband, James Boomer, of Prairie Village; and great-grandson Miles Elliott Boomer and great-granddaughter Larren Viola Boomer of Prairie Village.

Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502 is assisting with arrangements.

To leave an online condolence visit ymlfuneralhome.com

Edward Chaput (Posted 3/2/26)

Edward L. Chaput, 81 passed away Thursday, February 26, 2026.

Edward was born June 22, 1944, in Concordia, Kansas to Louis Chaput and Reva (Owen) Chaput. He attended school in Minneapolis, Kansas, and The University of Kansas. He worked at Dillons Grocery Stores for 36 years until he retired.

Edward is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jutta (Schmidt) Chaput; his children: Tara (Ryan) Olsen and Trisha Chaput; and his grandchildren: Kylee, Chase and Conor Olsen, and his brother Michael Chaput.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Virginia Rector.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, March 6, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 2812 Marlatt, in Manhattan.

Interment will follow at the Kansas Veteran’s at Fort Riley, 5181 Wildcat Creek Road in Manhattan.

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

Richard Wahl (Posted 2/27/26)

Peggy Grater (Posted 2/27/26)

Peggy Ilene (Fleming) Grater, age 79 of Leonardville, passed away Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.

She was born on October 16, 1946, in Manhattan, the daughter of Thomas George and Chrystal Iva (Nelson) Beninga.

On October 23, 1965, in Manhattan, she married Bob Fleming and they had five daughters.  He preceded her in death in 1994.  She and Ron Grater were married May 17, 2002.  He survives of the home.

Peggy worked at Kansas State University in many capacities and retired as Administrative Officer in charge of the universities motor pool.  She was a member of the Riley Presbyterian Church and the librarian at the Leonardville Library.  She was an active member of the Leonardville community, being named Citizen of the Year and the Grand Marshall in the Leonardville Hullabaloo Parade.  Peggy was an avid KU Jayhawk fan, and loved traveling, reading,  gardening, her fur babies, and bird watching.  She was an excellent seamstress, knitter and crocheter.

In addition to her husband, Ron Grater, she is survived by five daughters, Ronna Hoffman (Kevin) of Manhattan, Lori Boggs (Jim) of Wamego, Kerrie Hudson (Willard) of Topeka, Tracy (Brian Sheaves) of Riley, and Bobbi Fleming- Rosengaard of Monument, Colorado; one brother, Steve Beninga (Susie) of Topeka; nephews and nieces, one step-daughter, Kim Metzger of Clay Center, and many grandchildren, great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her niece, Cassie Beninga, a grandson Ryan Hawkins and her brother-in-law, Dennis Grater.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 8:00 pm Monday, March 2, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating.

Memorials may be made to Light Up 66449 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.

Gary Colgrove (Posted 2/26/26)

Gary Colgrove, age 60, passed away in the morning hours of Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri.

He was born on October 15, 1965, to parents Thomas and Dixie Colgrove in Manhattan, Kansas.

Gary was a man who experienced both the best and the worst in life. He was funny, smart, and stubborn. His greatest joys were talking to his friends, watching westerns with his dog, and cooking. He made great friends along the way and will always be remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Gary is survived by his dog, Lue; his son, Thomas Colgrove, and a host of other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his Grandparents, Richard and Velma McCaslin, and his mother and father, Thomas and Dixie Colgrove.

A visitation will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until service time. A memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Ronald McDonald House of Northeast Kansas. Memorial contributions can be left in care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.

Richard Lee Ramsey (Posted 2/25/26)

Richard Lee “Dick” Ramsey, 82, passed away Friday, February 20, 2026.

Dick was born July 12, 1943 to Mark and Caroline (Ludeke) Ramsey in Holdrege, Nebraska.

He attended Agra High School, Kearney St. College and Brown-Mackie College, SMU Graduate for Banking School.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife Elizabeth “Liz” Zoller, his children; Jeffrey Ramsey (Jill) and Stacey Cleary (Jim), grandchildren, Hannah, Emily, Grant and two great grandchildren, and brother, Mark Ramsey.

Cremation was chosen and private services will be at a later date. Inurnment will take place at the Ashrock Cemetery, Woodston, Kansas.

Memorials may be made to Good Sheperd Home Care and Hospice or Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community and sent in care of the funeral home.

Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas is handling arrangements.

To leave an online condolence visit ymlfuneralhome.com

Leanne Bigler (Posted 2/25/26)

Leanne Bigler, 73, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away peacefully at her home on February 14, 2026.

Leanne was born July 28, 1952, in Manhattan, Kansas. She graduated from Manhattan High School in 1970 and went on to work as an administrative assistant for more than 25 years at Kansas Farm Bureau and 10 years at the Cancer Center of Kansas.

Leanne loved gardening and spending time with her grandchildren. They fondly remember listening to books on tape, going out for corn dogs and lemonade at Vista, jumping in giant leaf piles, solving puzzles, and spending time at the swimming pool. Her great-grandchildren were always greeted with cookies when they came to visit.

She is survived by her husband and sweetheart of 33 years, David Barry of Manhattan; her daughter, Ginger Maes of Manhattan; her sister, Janice Noctonick of Holton, Kansas; her brother, Tapley Kent of Albuquerque, New Mexico; sister-in-law, Thesa Petty of Manhattan; brother-in-law, Mikel Barry of North Carolina; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Emma Herbst; her father, Rex Kent; her son, Christopher Maes; her brother, John Kent; and her sister, Shirley Pena.

Leanne will be remembered for her steady presence, her love of family, and the warmth she brought into the lives of those around her.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas is handling arrangements.

To leave an online condolence visit ymlfuneralhome.com

William Twidwell (Posted 2/25/26)

William Eugene Twidwell, age 81, passed away on February 19, 2026, in Frankfort, Kansas.

Born on July 17, 1944, in Frankfort, Kansas. He was the son of Ray and Stella Mae (Warren) Twidwell and grew up with a strong work ethic and a caring disposition.

William graduated from Frankfort High School in 1962 and furthered his education at Emporia State, earning a bachelor’s degree. He then attended the University of Oklahoma, where he began a master’s program in physics before transitioning to meteorology, ultimately obtaining his Master of Science in meteorology. He also pursued further studies at Oklahoma State University.

His career path took him to WIBW in Topeka, where he had a five-minute time slot delivering weather forecasts on the radio. After a few years, he moved to Kansas City but found the big-city environment unsuited to his tastes. This led him to work for a farmer in Ingalls, Kansas, before returning to Frankfort to farm alongside his father for a time, before setting off on his own, where he farmed for 50 years.

William also served in the Air National Guard, which further strengthened his dedication to service and community. In addition to his professional pursuits, he enjoyed farming and had a deep love for his dogs.

William is survived by his brothers, Kenneth of Frankfort and Edward (Nancy) of Prairieville, Louisiana; his sister-in-law, Mary of Elgin, Texas; eight nieces and nephews; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Stephen Twidwell, and his sister-in-law, Dianne Twidwell.

A graveside service will be held in the spring and will be announced. The family suggests memorial contributions to “K&D 4 Puppies” and may be sent in care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.

Genny Diederich (Posted 2/23/26)

Genevieve “Genny” Diederich, 86, of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.

Genny was born February 15, 1940 to Lawrence and Barbara (Rebitzer) Umscheid, at their family home near Flush, Kansas. Genny was the youngest of twelve children. She graduated from Flush High School in 1958.

On June 6, 1959, Genny was united in marriage to Doyle Francis Diederich, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Flush, Kansas. After nearly 60 years of marriage, Doyle preceded her in death on January 10, 2019.

Genny devoted her early married years to raising their two children, Becky Heinrichs (Jeff) of New Port Richey, FL and Tim (Lisa) of Wamego, KS; and supporting Doyle throughout his working years. In addition, she worked part-time cleaning houses for families, many of whom became lifelong friends, a testament to her genuine care for others.

Genny enjoyed being a grandmother to April Diederich, Casey Woltje (Eric), Korhy Flanary (Megan), Kahm Flanary (Honesty), and Aaron and Emmah Heinrichs, as well as to her and Doyle’s eight great-grandchildren, Adler, Brooks and Emrie Woltje, Oliver, Nancy and Lincoln Flanary, and Walker and Evelyn Flanary. Genny was also a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews who considered her their second mom.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Doyle; five sisters, Irene Mills, Helen Brazzle, Angie Brazzle, Betty Jane Duncan, and Isabel Winterman; and six Umscheid brothers, Wayne, Don, Lawrence Jr., Cletus, Carl, and Miney; and several nieces and nephews.

Genny and Doyle shared a love of travel, especially to the Branson, Missouri and Arkansas areas. Each year, they continued a special tradition of purchasing an angel to add to Genny’s cherished collection. They also hosted annual summer family trips to Holiday Island, Arkansas, creating treasured memories that their children and grandchildren will forever hold dear. In recent years she enjoyed traveling to spend time with her daughter and family in Florida and participating in sewing trips with her nieces.

Genny was known for her homemade noodle soups, chocolate sheet cake, and Christmas candies, especially peanut brittle which she made in abundance so that she could send a gift box of it home with each family member. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, laughter, and love.

An avid bowler, Genny participated in ladies’ leagues throughout her entire adult life, continuing until the age of 85. She also enjoyed traveling with her bowling teams to compete in tournaments, but more importantly, treasured the deep friendships and joyful memories made along the way.

Genny was a lifelong member of the Catholic faith. After Doyle’s passing, she and her two sisters became known at St. Bernard Catholic Church as the “three sisters”, because they attended mass together every Saturday evening.

Genny will lie in-state Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, Wamego, Kansas beginning at 2:00 PM. The family will then greet friends and loved ones from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, followed by recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7:00 PM.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Wamego, Kansas on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 10:30 AM followed by a luncheon at 11:30.

A graveside committal service will be at 2:00 PM at St. Joseph Cemetery in Flush, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Huntington’s Disease Society of America, in honor of this disease that afflicted several of Genny’s siblings as well as some nieces and nephews. Please make your check payable to HDSOA and send it in care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.

Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.