Paul Erwin Fleener (Posted 1/21/22)
Paul E. Fleener, 88, son of Weaver L. and Emily (Beck) Fleener, was born February 1, 1933 in his parents’ home in Greensburg, Kansas, and died of natural causes on January 20, 2022 at Collins House, Meadowlark Hills, Manhattan, Kansas.
Paul graduated from Greensburg High School in 1951 and from Kansas State University in 1956. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1959, serving on the USS Shangri-La, attaining the rank of Lieutenant JG. On June 28, 1953, Paul married Shirley Venard. Paul and Shirley lived in San Diego while working with Project Concern, and in Hong Kong helping serve the boat people. In 1966, Paul and Shirley moved back to Manhattan with their two young daughters, Sheri (b. 1964) and Pam (b. 1965). Their son, Bob, arrived in 1970.
Paul enjoyed a 30-year career in Public Affairs with Kansas Farm Bureau. In these years, he became a familiar face and voice across Kansas and spent time in Topeka working with the legislature in support of farmers and ranchers. State legislators could easily find Paul by following what had become familiar whistling in the hallways of the Kansas Statehouse. In 1985, Paul was instrumental in the passing of the federal Farm Bill, a significant piece of legislation with positive impacts on farmers across the U.S.
After retiring from Kansas Farm Bureau in 1998, Paul focused more of his time supporting Heart to Heart International, Shepherd’s Crossing (where he and Shirley were volunteer co-directors for three and a half years), and The Jesus Film Project. Anyone who knew Paul could easily confirm that he was a warrior for Jesus, being a witness for Christ in any opportunity he found. His love for Christ impacted many lives through personal relationships and also through the work he and Shirley have done with the Jesus Film Project, sharing the story of Jesus through films translated into more than 1,800 languages, reaching more than 490 million people worldwide.
Paul was a member of the First Methodist Church where he sang in their choir, and later was an active member of Westview, a Wesleyan church in Manhattan.
In his final three years, he was a resident at the Collins House at Meadowlark Hills, where he received excellent support from the care team, for which we are so thankful.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Margaret Belle and brother-in-law, Glen Riley; sister Neva Jean Spare; brother John Eldon Fleener and sister-in-law, Barbara; and their extended families. Paul is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughter Sheri Lynn Fleener; daughter Pamela Sue Enright, son-in-law Daniel Enright and their children Sophie Caitlin and Joshua Paul Hawthorn; son Robert (Bob) Beck Fleener; brother-in-law Richard Spare; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A funeral service for family and friends will be held on Monday, January 24th at 10:30 a.m. at Westview Community Church, 615 Gillespie Drive, Manhattan, KS 66502. It may be view online at
- The church website at this link: https://www.westviewcommunity.com/messages/ (look for the link after our Sunday services)
- Search on Facebook for “Westview Community Church” and, once you find the page, hit “like” and monitor that page for the start of the service.
- Or go direct to the Boxcast livestream link: https://boxcast.tv/view/paul-fleener-celebration-of-life-512267
An additional service in Greensburg, KS, will be held on Tuesday, January 25th at 11:30 a.m. viewing time with a service to be held at 12noon, at the Fleener Funeral Home, 514 S. Main Street. Burial will immediately follow at the Fairview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Jesus Film as a donation option through the church giving link: https://westviewcommunity.churchcenter.com/giving or via a check made out to Westview Community Church, noting “In memory of Paul Fleener”, in memory of Paul’s passion for Christ and sharing His story.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.
Shirley Ann Frederickson (Posted 1/21/22)
Shirley Ann Frederickson (Rauch), 86, of Manhattan, Kansas passed away on Tuesday, January 18th, 2022, surrounded by family members following an extended illness.
Shirley was born on December 13th, 1935, in Minden, Nebraska to the late Orville Harry and Ruby Irene Alice (Johnson) Howell. She was the third of four children. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Charles and Paul, sister-in-law Edie Howell, brother-in-law Norton Rowe, niece Vickie Howell Gates, and great-niece Judy Gates. She is survived by her younger sister Mary Lou Rowe of San Antonio, TX.
Shirley graduated from Gardena High School in Gardena, California in 1953 and studied fashion design at the Los Angeles School of Fashion. Shirley moved with her husband to San Diego, California and raised her two daughters Jennifir Ann and Marianne Alise. Once the girls were in school, she had careers in banking, bookkeeping, and the telecommunications industry. Once her grandchildren came along, she went above and beyond to help when and wherever needed. When her mother required full-time care, she took her turn (after her sister’s loving devotion) and served as her caregiver until the age of 102! She never seemed to put her own needs before the needs of others. She was an inspiration and loving example to many.
Shirley had a passion for helping others and served in various charitable organizations throughout the years. She kept faithful correspondence with her sponsored children through Children’s International. She thoroughly enjoyed driving her “posse” to the senior center to play bunco, church, appointments, or wherever they needed to go. She was a member of the Manhattan Church of Christ. Her hobbies included sewing, knitting, scrapbooking, board games and puzzles, swing dancing, natural remedies, and most of all spending quality time with family. She was a lover of all animals with dogs being at the top of the list.
Shirley is also survived by her daughters, Jennifir and husband David McGillis of Manhattan, KS, and Marianne and husband John Carroll of Huntland, TN. six grandchildren: Chase McGillis (Liz) of Nashville, TN, Jordan McGillis (Krysten) of Manhattan, KS, Kyliah Kellermann of Manhattan, KS, Savannah Thorne (Joe) of Brookings, SD, Jenna Rombaugh (Ryland) of Walnut Hill, IL, and Shae Kellermann of Chippewa Lake, OH. Her love was extended to eight great-grandchildren, three nieces, two nephews, and her Nebraska cousins.
Church family and friends gathered to Celebrate her Life on Friday, January 21st, at the Manhattan Church of Christ.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to Children’s International. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
Dr. Margery Neely (Posted 1/20/22)
Dr. Margery A. Neely, Professor Emerita at Kansas State University, passed away peacefully at home on December 25th, 2021 surrounded by family. She enjoyed many family visits filled with laughter and hugs during her brief but courageous struggle with lung cancer.
She was born January 13th, 1934 in Springfield, MO to Arthur Dorris Neely and Anna Amelia (Schneider) Neely, who both preceded her in death, as did sister and brother-in-law, Doris and George Neil, brother Arthur Neely and granddaughter Jessica Van Horn. She is survived by: four children, Ann (Brad) Van Horn of Blue Springs, MO; Larry (Jill) Tarvestad of Goshen, KY; Sally Tarvestad of Manhattan, KS; and Lisa (Pete) Klaes of Mission Viejo, CA; sister-in-law Joyce Neely; along with nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Dr. Neely was a scholar, a trailblazer, an avid reader and accomplished writer, a crossword puzzler extraordinaire, and the all-time Family Scrabble Champion. She was a source of strength, wisdom, kindness, laughter and inspiration to those around her, and a wonderful parent to her four children.
Marge grew up in Springfield, MO and established life-long friendships with her classmates, greatly enjoying the 65th class reunion of Springfield High School in 2016. She spent her first two years of high school living in Japan, developing a love of travel before returning to graduate in 1951. She went to Southwest Missouri State where she was President of Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority, served as editor of the school newspaper, and graduated in 1955 earning a degree in History/Political Science, with a minor in English.
Later, as a single mother of 4 children, she worked while earning her M.Ed. degree in Guidance and Counseling (1968) and her Ph.D. degree in Counseling Psychology (1971) from the University of Missouri, Columbia. She then moved her family to Manhattan, KS to work for Kansas State University, retiring in 1999.
During her years at Kansas State University she was a counselor educator, hooded 25 doctoral students, authored or co-authored over 50 research studies, books or articles, and presented over 60 papers and workshops with a primary focus on Guidance and Counseling, Women’s Studies, Family Development, Diversity, Aging, and Ethics. She was elected to the Faculty Senate and was Chair of the Faculty Women’s Caucus. She was an active member of the American Psychological Association and the American Counseling Association. Her children remember her being very busy all those years!
Dr. Neely was cremated and her urn will be placed at Forest Hill and Calvary Cemetery in KC, MO. There will be no funeral service, but there will be a committal ceremony in the spring. Marge asks that donations in lieu of flowers be sent to the Flint Hills Breadbasket, where she was on the founding Board of Directors. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of Accord Hospice and Angels at Home Care, who helped them care for Marge at home through such a difficult time.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
Jerry Beihl (Posted 1/19/22)
Jerome Sylvester “Jerry” Beihl, age 77, of Manhattan, died January 18, 2022, at his residence.
He was born July 18, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, the son of Frederick and Regina Rose
(Greaney) Beihl.
In 1963, Jerry joined the United States Army and served for 26 plus years retiring at the rank of Sergeant First Class. He served during the Vietnam Conflict and had received the Army Lapel Button, Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Award, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Commendation Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Good Conduct
Medal (8), Army Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Meritorious Unit
Citation, Vietnam Campaign Medal with one Silver Star, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm
and Expert (M-16 Rifle) Sharpshooter.
Following his military service he worked security at Sears and as the head of Transportation
and Security at Flint Hills Job Corps Center. He was also an Auxiliary Lieutenant Police Officer
for Riley County Police Department for 13 years.
Jerome was a member of Seven Dolors Catholic Church, and 4th Degree Knight of Columbus.
He was also a huge Kansas State Football fan.
On March 23, 1968, at Church of our Lady of Mercy Cross Chapel, in Blessington, County
Wicklow, Ireland, he was married to Josephine Teresa Edwards.
Survivors include his wife Josephine of Manhattan; two children: Andrew Beihl of Pittsburg,
KS, and Pamela Beihl (Kayra Joy) of Kansas City, KS; grandchildren: Victoria Yartz, Riley
Beihl, Carson Beihl, Grayson Beihl, Quincy Beihl and Carolina Vargas; daughter-in-law Kelly
Yartz; and sister-in-law Kathleen Edwards.
A Parish Vigil will be held at 9:30 A.M. Thursday, January 27 th , at Seven Dolors Catholic
Church. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, January 27 th , at
Seven Dolors Catholic Church with Father Ryan McCandless as Celebrant. Interment with
military honors will follow in the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery at Fort Riley.
Jerry lived a life of service to his family, his church, his community and country. His friendly
and good nature will be greatly missed by all who had the good fortune to know and love him.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at
www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to either Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Manhattan
Catholic Schools or Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice. Contributions may be left in care of
the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas
66502.
Gregg Waller (Posted 1/18/22)
Gregory “Gregg” Lee Waller, age 62, passed away suddenly on January 17, 2022 in Manhattan, KS. He was born on September 21, 1959 in Ponca City, OK.
Gregg loved his family with every ounce of his being and his greatest joy was being Papa to Kord, Kampbell, Colin and McKinley.
He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, gardening, baking, hunting and watching the deer on the farm through his big picture window overlooking one of their fields. Gregg had a keen sense of humor and he brought laughter to all who knew him.
He is preceded in death by both maternal and paternal grandparents; mother and father in-law (Red and Carrie Boder); stepfather (Wes Honick) and numerous aunts and uncles on the Waller and Hutchison sides of the family.
Gregg is survived by his wife of 42 years, Karla, of Manhattan, KS; daughters Dianna Cox (Matt Brink) and Kristin Coon (Bobby) of Topeka, KS; grandchildren, Kord and Kampbell Cox and their father, Joe Cox, Colin and McKinley Coon all of Topeka, KS. His mother, Margie Honick, of Okmulgee, OK; brother, Mike Waller (Clarissa) of Conroe, TX; sisters, Shelley Waller (Gwyn) of Bentonville, AR and Leslie Perry (Mike) of Okmukgee, OK; Brother and sister-in-law, Kevin and Debbie Boder, Salina KS, he leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews friends and loved ones. He will be greatly missed and remembered fondly by all who knew him.
Memorial services for Mr. Waller will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday January 25, 2022 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan, Kansas, with Pastor Melanie Nord officiating.
Private inurnment will be held at a later date.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com
Cheryl Philippi (Posted 1/18/22)
Cheryl Rose Philippi, 69, of Manhattan, KS passed away January 16, 2022 after a brief stay at the Good Shepherd Hospice House, Manhattan, KS. She lived courageously for several years after being diagnosed with a rare brain disease, Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD). Cheryl received exemplary care by the caregivers and staff at Good Shepherd Homecare & Hospice.
Cheryl was born December 3, 1952 in Great Bend, KS. She grew up in Claflin, KS attending Immaculate Conception grade school and Claflin High School. Cheryl met the love of her life, Mike Philippi, and they married October 16, 1971. Cheryl and Mike recently celebrated their 50th Anniversary on Captiva Island, Florida with their family. They began their married life in Great Bend, KS then transitioned to their farm in Bushton, KS while raising their children. They have been permanent residents of Manhattan, KS for the last 37 years.
Cheryl established her fulfilling 35 plus year career in the banking and home mortgage loan industry. She thoroughly enjoyed the personal relationships she established with customers, realtors and professional colleagues. Cheryl had such a successful career because she took a genuine interest in her client’s lives and ensured each client received the highest quality service.
Cheryl was highly respected in the community and was an active member of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, the Manhattan Konza Rotary Club, as well as other professional organizations during her career.
Cheryl was vivacious and loved life. She embraced her time with family and friends, loved spending time with her grandkids, and having her “girl’s week out” with her mom and sisters each year. She also enjoyed traveling, reading, cruises, concerts, and K-State tailgate parties. She always lived life to the fullest. You just couldn’t miss her infectious smile.
She is survived by her husband, Michael Philippi, daughter Renee Arensberg (Jim), son Jamie Philippi (Karina), mother, Virginia Klepper, siblings, Janice Rielly (Ron), Michelle Shaheen (Michael), Lynnette Bernasconi (Dave), Terry Klepper (Mary), three grandchildren, Aidan Arensberg, Kaya and Kenzi Philippi and numerous nieces and nephews. Cheryl was preceded in death by her father, Clifford Klepper and brother, Daryl Klepper.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 20 from 5:30 to 7:00 pm at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Friday, January 21 at 10:00 am. Graveside service to follow at Sunrise Cemetery, 2901 Stagg Hill Rd, Manhattan, KS.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Good Shepherd Homecare & Hospice, Manhattan, KS and may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.
Laurie Wiemers (Posted 1/18/22)
Laurie Elizabeth Wiemers, age 59, of Manhattan, died January 11, 2022 in Manhattan.
She was born on May 17, 1962 in San Angelo, Texas, the daughter of Stanley and Beverly (Mason) Parker. She graduated from Gonzales High School (Gonzales TX) with the class of 1980.
Laurie was blessed with two sons: Jeremy Baker and Hunter Wiemers. In addition to her sons, she is survived by her father, Stanley Parker; sisters, Bren Stout and Marsha Decker, and her brother Larry Parker. Also surviving Laurie are her nieces: Shanan Allemang, Robyn Opheim, Mandi Stout and Kelleye Decker, and nephews: John Michael Parker & Louis Decker and 8 grand-nephews & 1 grand-niece.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Beverly Parker, and her youngest sister, Christina Parker, and all of her grandparents.
Laurie moved to Kansas from Houston TX in1988, but she remained a Texas girl at heart, cheering for the UT Longhorns whenever one of their games was televised. She loved animals and had her own horse as a teenager. There was always a dog included in Laurie’s family, and her last fur-baby, Angel, went to Heaven just a few months ago.
Laurie really enjoyed music & going to concerts. In her younger years, Journey & Fleetwood Mac were among her favorites. In the last few years, country music was often playing on her radio, and she & her sister Bren, made sure to attend Country Stampede to see Blake Shelton when he was there.
Laurie was a loyal friend and co-worker, often putting her friends & her family before herself. It was extremely rare to see Laurie without her sweet smile. She enjoyed her jobs and always attended her Bible study group. She attended Rock Hills Church in Manhattan. Laurie worked in retail jobs, at the KSU Alumni Association and most recently in the office at Copeland Insurance in Manhattan.
Funeral services for Laurie will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan, with Pastor Susan Evans officiating.
Vaughn Hoffman (Posted 1/14/22)
Vaughn Dentan Hoffman, age 76 of Leonardville, passed away Monday, December 20, 2021 at the Leonardville Nursing Home.
He was born on April 12, 1945 in Manhattan, the son of Forrest Elmer and Garnett Louise (Brown) Hoffman.
On April 2, 1972 he married Lynette Sue Bulk. They later separated.
Vaughn’s life was farming, but he was also a machinist. He enjoyed tinkering with all sorts of projects, building trailers, collecting many different things, especially smiley faces and crystals that made rainbows. Vaughn looked forward to spending time with his grandchildren, especially taking them out for rides on the little blue golf cart. He was an active member of the Fairview Presbyterian Church.
He is survived by his brother, Thaine Hoffman and wife Carol of Topeka; his daughter, Ivy Kennedy and husband Brock of Manhattan; and two grandchildren, Kacie Lyn and Ian Douglas.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 17, 2022 at Fairview Presbyterian Church with Pastor Gerry Sharp officiating with a luncheon to follow. Private family inurnment will be in the Grandview-Mill Creek Cemetery.
A memorial has been established for the Leonardville Nursing Home to start a scholarship program to help staff with certification and recertification fees, continuing education and higher education. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
Reagan Hupp (Posted 1/14/22)
Reagan Hupp died on January 10 in Scottsdale, AZ. Her family and friends will gather for a memorial
celebration of Reagan’s life at 10:30 a.m. on January 22 at Grace Baptist Church, 2901 Dickens Avenue,
followed by a luncheon. Guests can feel free to bring a soup or Reagan-inspired item to the meal.
Reagan was born on September 25, 1973 in Wichita to Edward and Susan Thompson. She and her sister,
Heather, spent their growing-up years in Iran, Houston, and London due to Ed’s architectural profession.
As a young girl, Reagan responded to God and began experiencing a joyful love for Jesus. In fact, her
early decision prompted her father to also become a Christian — the first example of numerous times
Reagan consciously or unconsciously influenced others to follow God more fully.
Later, as a freshman at the University of Kansas, Reagan fully surrendered to Jesus as her King and her
life radically shifted as a result. After graduation, Reagan married Jonathan Hupp on June 8, 1996, and
they began working together as campus ministers. Later, with three children aged four and younger, the
family moved to Manhattan to start Called to Greatness, a ministry to college students. Over the next five
years, the family moved between cities five times, reaching out to young people and opening their home.
In 2004, they returned to Manhattan to help launch and lead Bluemont Church. During the ensuing years,
Reagan poured her life into and helped mentor numerous people from around the world, especially young
women.
Though becoming a mother hadn’t occupied much of Reagan’s imagination when she was young, it
became a passionate and central focus of her adult life. Reagan raised five children: Adam (Detroit, MI),
Anna (Laramie, WY), Cade (Ames, IA), Ian and Amsie (Manhattan, KS). Their ages currently range from
11 to 24.
After Reagan was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer in February 2021, she fought valiantly for life,
motivated by her desire to serve others. Though Reagan was a fighter, she contended in unexpected ways.
She thought of the phrase “Strong like a Butterfly” to describe her personality and approach, and many
friends and family members wore t-shirts bearing this catchphrase to support her.
Reagan embodied grace and beauty throughout her life, combining her gentle influence on others with her
knack for pointed one-liners. More than anything else, Reagan’s family and friends will remember her
love, which manifested in authentic attention and care for others.
Reagan’s parents, sister, husband, children, and others remember a life that embraced “lightness” while
fully acknowledging the heaviness of physical struggle and emotional pain. From this place, Reagan
chose to bring the answer of the Good News of Jesus into the darkness and brokenness of the world.
The family is deeply grateful for the innumerable ways people have supported them during the past year.
If desired, memorial gifts can be given to the Called to Greatness K-State Campus House Fund. Flowers
and/or contributions may also be left in care of Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz
Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at
www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
Shirley Huey (Posted 1/13/22)
Shirley I. Huey, 86, of Manhattan, KS, formerly of Bogue, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, January 11th, at her home in Manhattan. She was retired from KSU Vet Science as an Animal Care Intake.
Shirley was born in Natoma, KS on October 15, 1935, the daughter of the late Victor and Rosa Lillie (Strutt) Hayes. She attended school at the Natoma Schools and received her GED. On May 2, 1954, she and Art Huey were united in marriage in Stockton, Kansas and he proceeds her in death. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Manhattan and had been a cook in the dormitories and a housekeeper at KSU.
Shirley is survived by three daughters, Susan Kent, of Manhattan; Ruth Huey, of Manhattan; Renee (Jim) Hubner, of Manhattan; three sons Leland Huey, of Manhattan; James (Sondra) Huey, of Bella Vista, AR; Dale (Dana Kay) Huey, of Overland Park; 14 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Shirley is also preceded in death by her son, Daniel and 2 brothers, and 1 sister.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 14th at Carlson’s Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home & Cremation in Manhattan, with Daniel White officiating. Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 am, in the Wildhorse Cemetery at Bogue, Kansas.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association 3625 SW 29th St #102 Topeka, KS 66614.,
To send an email condolence to the family visit the funeral home website, www.irvnparkview.com Carlson’s Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home & Cremation, Manhattan.
Donna Jean Phillips (Posted 1/12/22)
Donna Jean Phillips, age 78, of Manhattan, died January 9, 2022, at Meadowlark Hills – Stolzer House.
She was born June 22, 1943, in Dodge City, Kansas, the daughter of Ward and Edna (Beard) Sims.
Donna graduated from Hays High School in Hays, KS.
She married Stanley Vincent Irvin in Hays. They later divorced. She married Alan Lee Phillips on June 10,1972, in Lincoln, Nebraska.
While visiting the Phillips Family farm pasture near Olsburg, KS, in the early 1970’s, she and Alan became inspired and decided their life mission would be to form a retreat at that location. In 1974, they founded the Living Water Ranch Retreat and Conference Center. This God-inspired retreat became a beloved location, not only to area residents but to countless others who came for rest, relaxation, business, pleasure or simply to get away from life’s distractions.
Alan preceded Donna in death on January 8, 2018.
Survivors include her two sons: Mark Irvin and his wife Rafeala of Germany, and Mike Irvin and his wife Lisa of Olsburg; seven grandchildren: Blessed, Melissa, Crystal, Jeremy, Braden, Jaron and Machella; numerous great-grandchildren: and three sisters: Linda North of Hays, KS, Cindy Schwartz of Breckenridge, CO, and Janet Sims of Lenexa, KS.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Monday, January 17th, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Private family services will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorial contributions may be made to either the Living Water Ranch or the Flint Hills Foster Teen Camps. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
Dennis Graham (Posted 1/12/22)
Dennis (Lory) Graham, age 85, of Manhattan, Kansas, died January 6, 2022.
Dennis was born in 1936 in Rugby, ND. He graduated from Lawton High School, ND in 1954. After two years of college at the University of North Dakota, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1957, eventually becoming an officer and retiring out of Moffett Field as a Lt. Commander in 1981. Dennis then worked at GTE as a business executive until he retired in 1996. While working Dennis continued with college, obtaining a Master of Business Administration from USC.
Throughout his adult life, and especially in retirement, Dennis engaged in numerous volunteer activities including church, teaching driver’s ed to seniors via AARP, and ESL group classes.
In 1959 Dennis married the love of his life, Linda (Skjerseth) while stationed in Honolulu. Together they raised their sons in the San Francisco Bay Area. Together Dennis and Linda traveled extensively throughout the world, visiting countries in every continent. Dennis was an avid home fix it man who could repair or build anything, particularly with wood.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Linda, and by his sons Dennis (wife Dolores) of Milpitas, Ca, and Mike (wife Mary) of Manhattan, KS, their grandchildren Matt, Liz, Charlotte, Zachary, Linda and Nathan Graham, sister MarDee Dahlin (Jerry) and brothers Kenn (Geraldine, predeceased), Bryce (Francine) and Jayce Graham, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Dennis was predeceased by his parents Florence and Leroy Graham.
Services are pending.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in his name to the Michael J Fox Foundation https://www.michaeljfox.org/donate
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.
Thomas McGuyer (Posted 1/7/22)
Darrel Penland (Posted 1/7/22)
Darrel Keith Penland, age 60, a longtime Manhattan resident, died January 4, 2022, in Milford, KS.
Darrel was born May 27, 1961, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of George E. and Evelyn L. (Neal) Penland.
He graduated from Manhattan High School with the class of 1980.
Darrel worked for the Cinderella Cleaners, Wildcat Lumber, was the clubhouse manager at Stagg Hill Golf Course in Manhattan for 19 years, and the last two years as the clubhouse manager at Rolling Meadows Golf Course in Junction City.
He enjoyed bowling in the Tuesday night league at Wildcat Lanes, golfing, fishing and taking photos of nature. He was a stranger to no one, and a friend to everyone.
Survivors include his four siblings: Nicholas Penland of Rapid City, SD, Gregory Penland and his wife Anne of Rapid City, Janice Hinman and her husband Paul of Manhattan, and Nancy Moss and her husband Mike of Manhattan; several nieces and nephews; and many friends.
Cremation is planned with a Celebration of his Life to be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to Rolling Meadows Golf Course, Stagg Hill Golf Course or the Cancer Research Fund at Kansas State University. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
David Lee Burgman (Posted 1/5/22)
William Richardson (Posted 1/4/22)
William “Jug” Richardson, Jr., age 94, died December 31, 2021, at the Ascension Via Christi Village in
Manhattan.
He was born January 14, 1927, in Scott City, Kansas, the son of William and Edith (Ramsey) Richardson.
Jug attended Shields Grade School for two years, and then Wilsey Grade School through 8 th grade and
then attended Wilsey High School.
His mother raised 9 children, having lost his father to cancer when he was 7. As a young boy during the
depression, Jug would go to friends houses near Wilsey to stay…as his mom had more kids than she could
keep track of. He said after a couple days, she would call around and find out where he was!
He served in the United States Army during World War II from May 31, 1945, until December 1, 1946,
and was Honorably Discharged at the rank of Technician 5 th Grade.
On September 2, 1950, in Wilsey, Kansas, he was married to Evelyn Veal. They lived in Wilsey until
moving to Manhattan in 2005.
He worked in several jobs, Beach Aircraft, Construction of many homes and businesses in the Wilsey and
Council Grove area, and then retired from the Missouri Pacific Railroad as a brakeman conductor.
He also was proud of hopping a train as a 17 year old to southeast Colorado to work on a ranch during
summers.
He was a member of the Wilsey Christian Church and the Masonic Lodge.
Jug loved to fish and hunt, weave shawls and started oil painting in his 80’s. He enjoyed playing cards,
cribbage, 500 and pinochle. He and Evelyn wintered in south Texas from 1985 to 2000 and then in Palm
Springs, CA, from 2001 to 2016.
Survivors include his wife Evelyn of Manhattan; three daughters: Diane Haddock of Jefferson, Colorado,
Denise Klimek and her husband Ed of Manhattan, and Pam Smith and her husband Gary of Wilsey, KS;
six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Jug was preceded in death by his eight siblings: James, Beulah Sutton, Robert, Velma Dike, Louis,
Geneva Byrn, Glen and Martin.
Cremation is planned with a Celebration of his life to be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at
www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wilsey Christian Church. Contributions may be left in care of
the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
Gregory Finn (Posted 1/3/22)
Gregory L. “Greg” Finn, age 71, of Manhattan, Kansas, died Saturday January 1, 2022 at his home after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was born on April 30, 1950, in Hoisington, Kansas, the son of James R. “Bob” Finn and Regene “Jean” (Valerius) Finn. Greg graduated from Hoisington High School in 1968. He continued his education at Barton County Community College, and then attended Kansas State University.
Greg enlisted in the Marines in 1969, serving 18 months at Kaneohe Marine Base, Hawaii. He was employed as a computer programmer at Lear Jet in Wichita, McCall Pattern in Manhattan, and Security Benefit Group in Topeka. He owned and operated Finn’s Pub in Manhattan for 22 years, until he retired in 2017.
Greg has a passion for playing golf, loved to travel, and enjoyed Kansas State football and basketball. He especially enjoyed spending time at the round table with all his friends and extended family at Finn’s Pub.
On October 3, 1970, he was united in marriage to Mary Jane Brown. They later divorced. He was united in marriage to Marcia Krienitz on May 7, 1999.
Greg is survived by Marcia, his wife and partner for 27 years; also, his three daughters, Angela (Scott) Fritschie, of Lenexa, Kansas, Diann (Fred Hill) Finn of Overland Park, Kansas, and Tara (Doug) Hartung, of Manhattan, Kansas; his brother, Calvin (Debbie) Finn of Hoisington, Kansas; his mother-in-law Janice Krienitz of Manhattan, Kansas; sisters-in-law, Becky Finn of Ulysses, Kansas, and Deb Marfield (Walt) of Manhattan; and also, his five grandchildren: Malik, Ian, Zoe, Jacob, and Emily.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law, John Krienitz, and his two brothers, Steve Finn and Randy Finn.
No services are scheduled at this time.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Edward Hauer (Posted 1/3/22)
Edward William Hauer, age 91, of Manhattan, died December 25, 2021, at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House in Manhattan.
He was born May 4, 1930, in Perry, Oklahoma, the fifth child of the Reverend Edward Carl and Rosa Marie (Zerbe) Hauer. He attended Lutheran parochial schools in Perry and Atchison, Kansas, graduating from Atchison Jr./Sr. High School. He was a Distinguished Military Graduate of Kansas State University with a Bachelors in Engineering and a Regular US Air Force Commission.
On January 28, 1953, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Manhattan, he was married with Mary
Beth Sieh of Manhattan by his father. Until Mary Beth’s death on May 22, 2020, they enjoyed
67 years of marriage blessed with a family of five children.
The family moved with Ed’s military service and Federal Government employment obligations
for several years and then settled in Evergreen, Colorado. They returned to Manhattan in 1993.
Ed enjoyed a federal service career in the most challenging national assignments at the
technical executive management level of major NASA / DOD Aerospace programs. He was
selected as a civilian Federal employee to attend a year in residency at the prestigious National
War College, Washington, D.C. Concurrent with his civilian employment, he maintained an
Active US Air Force Reserve status assignment with the Air Staff for Intelligence, Pentagon. He
retired from this Reserve assignment with the rank of Full Colonel. He was an Accreditation
Board Registered ISO 9000 Quality Systems Lead Auditor.
Five children survive: Bill Hauer and his wife Anne of Fairbanks, Alaska; Greg Hauer of
Cascade Locks, Oregon; Peter Hauer of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Becky Trenary and her
husband Gary of Morrison, Colorado; and Jane Holba and her husband Bob of Mount Pleasant,
South Carolina; 15 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Cremation is planned with a Celebration of Ed’s life to be held at 10:30 A.M. Friday, January
7 th , at the First Lutheran Church, 930 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, with Reverend Stephen
Haverlah officiating. Private family inurnment will be in the Carnahan Creek Cemetery at a later
date.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at
www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Lutheran Church, “Youth Music Ministry
Endowment Fund” or Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice. Contributions may be left in care
of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
Joanne Barkyoumb (Posted 1/3/22)
Joanne Barkyoumb, 90, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away Friday, December 17, 2021, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan from complications following hip replacement surgery. She was born on August 29, 1931, in Manhattan, Kansas, the firstborn of J. Byron and Helen (Glunt) Brooks.
A lifetime area resident, Joanne had fond memories and stories about growing up in rural Garrison, Kansas in the 1930’s and 40’s. She helped on the family farm and enjoyed riding her pony Tony with her brother Jim. Joanne always preferred outside work and play to staying indoors. She graduated as Valedictorian from Randolph Rural High School in 1949 and attended Kansas State College of Agriculture and Applied Science (now Kansas State University). She was a Pi Beta Phi member and remained active for decades following her college years.
On January 30, 1954, she married Dale F. Barkyoumb. He preceded her in death on May 11, 2001, after 47 years of marriage. Dale and Joanne made their lifelong home in Manhattan where they raised three children: Steve, Susan, and Mike. Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church was a very important part of Joanne’s life – worship, choir, weddings, circles, and many other celebrations were held there. She was on the Meadowlark Hills Board of Trustees during its early formative years and was proud of the national recognition it gained. Joanne moved into Meadowlark Hills Independent Living in 2018 and continuously praised the organization’s dedication to caring for its residents, particularly during the pandemic. Kansas State sports were also an important part of Joanne’s life.
She and Dale held season football tickets since the stadium opened in 1968 and rarely missed a game. Joanne loved tailgating with family and cheering on her Wildcats! She looked so beautiful in purple, especially with her gorgeous grey hair. Joanne’s passion for people was evident in the joy she expressed in being with her family and friends, meeting new people, participating in numerous social groups and activities, and traveling the world with friends. She was always helpful, loving, content, quick to smile, full of stories and proud of her family.
Joanne was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter and son-in-law Susan and Brian Abramovitz, brother and sister-in-law James B. and Vivian (Young) Brooks, and nephew Bill Brooks.
Joanne is survived by two sons and their spouses Steve and Joni Barkyoumb, of Wooster, Ohio and Mike and Melissa Barkyoumb, of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her grandchildren include Cammie (Brian) Burgett, Bryan Barkyoumb, Carrie (Andy) Palmer, Becky (Matt) Benoit, Laura (Drew) Yunghans, Sarah (Tyler) Lucas, and David Barkyoumb. She is also survived by eleven great-grandchildren and her niece Kathy (Harwood) Shawver.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at the Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church in Manhattan, Kansas. Masks are recommended. A Celebration of Joanne’s Life will be held at the Meadowlark Prairie Star Event Center at a later date. Interment will be next to her husband Dale in Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan, Kansas.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Blue Valley Memorial United Methodist Church of
Manhattan or the Meadowlark Foundation to benefit its Good Samaritan Fund. 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
William Lawrence Jackson (Posted 1/3/22)
William Lawrence (Larry) Jackson passed away on December 19, at his home in Manhattan. He was 67 years of age. Larry was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, in 1954 to Jean N. and William N. (Bill) Jackson, who at the time was serving in the USMC. After criss-crossing the country (and Korea) as a Marine, Bill decided to become a preacher, so the family moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where Larry’s sibling, Barry, was born.
Larry never attended the same school for more than 2 years before graduating college, living in Massachusetts, California, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ipswich (England) and Mississippi. He graduated high school from Huntingdon, Tennessee. Larry earned a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications from Freed-Hardeman College in 1976. He went on to earn a Master of Music degree in Music Theory and Composition from the University of Mississippi in 1980. He also completed 50 hours towards a Doctor of Arts degree in Choral Music Education.
Larry was hired in 1985 as program director of the NPR station at Texas A&M, and a year later was appointed station manager. He also worked as a vocal music instructor at Central Mississippi Junior College, and an instructor in speech and music at Faulkner University.
In 1994 he was hired as station manager of KKSU-AM radio with K-State Research and Extension, where he met his beloved wife Sharolyn Flaming. For the next 20+ years Larry served extension as radio manager, technology manager, and communications specialist. When the KKSU on-air time was released to WIBW, Larry was responsible for helping staff transition to a new delivery method. He was chairman of the Kansas Public Broadcasting Association; and was very active as a board member, and in other leadership roles, in the international Association for Communication Excellence. Larry was known for his gentleness, calm approach and witticisms. He retired from K-State in 2017.
Larry and Sharolyn were married for 23 ½ years. They enjoyed cooking together, entertaining in their home and in the Jackson backyard, and hosting tailgate parties for K-State football games. Larry established friendships easily, and these relationships spanned the country and include special friends in Australia. Larry also enjoyed traveling and created memories attending the Olympics with his brother, Barry, and traveling in Europe. A special place for Larry and Sharolyn is Key West, FL where they love to welcome and host friends during their time share week.
Larry also loved music of all types. He enjoyed singing with the Ole Miss Choir, being a grad assistant with the choir, and leading singing in church. He played and sang in a 50-60’s era rock and roll band, Kid Cruise and the T-birds during college years. He also enjoyed playing all types of roles in theatre productions during college.
In 2013 Larry was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, an incurable bone marrow cancer. He fought hard for over 8 years, enduring many types of treatments without complaining. When Larry’s mom would tell him that he was in God’s hands, Larry would reply “and I’m going to do everything I can to help him.” Larry’s constant companions and joy during some difficult last years were the family kitties, Julio and Rico.
Larry is survived by his wife, Sharolyn, of Manhattan, his mother, Jean, of Austin, Texas, and Sharolyn’s family including step-mother Carol Flaming of Hillsboro, brother Tim (Judy) Flaming of Hillsboro, their two sons, daughters-in-law and four grandsons. He is preceded in death by his father, Bill Jackson, and brother, Barry Jackson.
Larry’s remains have been cremated; a private inurnment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, monetary remembrances can be made in his name to the International Myeloma Foundation, Johnson Cancer Research Center at K-State, or to the K-State Foundation to establish a professional development scholarship in Larry and Sharolyn’s name for K-State Research and Extension professionals. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
A Celebration of Larry’s Life will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, January 7th, at the First United Methodist Church, 612 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan. The family request that you wear a mask and social distance when attending the service.
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com.
Travis Durbin (posted 12/31/21)
Travis Durbin, 37, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away Thursday morning, December 30th, at his home. He was a meat cutter at Texas Roadhouse Restaurant and was also a former manager for Pizza Hut in Bloomington, Illinois.
Send email condolences to the family by visiting the Carlson’s Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home & Cremation website at www.irvinparkview.com.