Donna Joy Jones (posted 7/2/2025)
Donna Joy Jones, 75, a beloved mother, sister, teacher, and mentor, passed away on June 28, 2025. Donna was born August 19, 1949 in Marysville to Donald Jones and Caryl Weaver-Jones. She grew up on family farms near Frankfort and Beattie.
As a young child, her family spent precious time with aunts, uncles and cousins. She went on trips with her Jones grandparents which transitioned into her taking trips with her own grandchildren.
Donna attended school in Frankfort, Axtell and Marysville, grauating from KSU in elementary education and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. She was a teacher for 41 years.
On August 24, 1969, she married Mike Blaske and were blessed with a son, Brett Elmer and Katie Joy Tadtman, (Justin) of Clay Center, parents of Colten, Aubrey and Claire, and Dr. Whitney Joy Blaske Hood, (Demonte), parents of Bricen, Amyah and Titus of Joshua, TX. Mike and Donna divorced in 2008. Donna is proceeded in death by infant grandson Jeret Tadtman and her parents.
She enjoyed attending family sporting and school events, and trips in the grandma van on yearly parent-free vacations to Colorado.
Faith was very important to Donna. She was a member of Evangelical Covenant Church, a substitute teacher, volunteered for Light House for Christ, CASA and UCC Manhattan. She also enjoyed her four-legged children Chichi and Teddy. Donna was a firm believer God has a plan for everyone and one needs to trust him. Her life was filled with beauty and wonder, joy and love thanks to God’s blessings. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to secure the naming rights to a playground at the Multi Generational Life Center. Please make checks out to CCCIF in memory of Donna Blaske or a donation can be made online at claycentercif.org or Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Services will be 10:30 am July 10, at ECC, 1330 15th Street, Clay Center.
Lois Feldhausen (Posted 7/2/2025)
Lois Marie Feldhausen, 91, of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Sunday (June 29, 2025) at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, Kansas.
Born August 21, 1933 in Riley, Kansas, Lois was the daughter of John M. and Alberta (White) Habluetzel. She married Art Morse Feldhausen on April 18, 1954 in Wamego. He preceded her in death on April 10, 2003.
Lois was a homemaker for many years. In her later years she worked as a Needs Assessor for the Riley County Senior Center and then as a cook for the Westloop Pizza Hut in Manhattan, retiring at the age of 81.
Lois loved cooking and solving puzzles, especially Sudoku.
Survivors include her son, John Feldhausen (Angela) of Monet, MO; her grandchildren Zi Lynn (Alex) Johnson and son Xander of Dallas Center, IA, and Brady (Sarah) Howard of Ely, NV; her sister, Janice Hedrick of Manhattan, KS; her sister in law, Juanita Habluetzel of Basehor, KS; five nieces, Sandi Deines of Ogden, KS, Sue Yenzer (Gary) of St. George, KS, Shari Liming of St. George, KS, Nancy Thompson (Russ) of Manhattan, KS and Debbie Hedrick of Manhattan, KS; a nephew, James Kelsey of Bonner Springs, KS; and many great nieces and great nephews.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, John L. Habluetzel; a sister, Pearletta Smith and her husband Keith; a brother in law, Phil Hedrick; a niece, Teresa Kelsey; a nephew, William Liming; and a great nephew, Joshua Yenzer.
Graveside memorial services will be held Thursday morning (July 10, 2025) at 11:00 in the Wamego City Cemetery with Pastor Jol Klein officiating.
Memorials are suggested to the Good Shepherd Hospice House. Please make checks payable to Good Shepherd Hospice House and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.
Karen Slack (Posted 7/2/2025)
We honor the remarkable life of Karen Sue Slack, who left us on June 29, 2025, at the age of 69.
She was born on September 23, 1955, in Seneca, Kansas. Karen was a beacon of warmth and kindness, qualities that defined her throughout her life. Her journey brought her to Wamego, Kansas, where she created a home filled with love, laughter, and open doors for anyone in need.
Karen’s life was a testament to the beauty of generosity and the strength of a compassionate heart. As a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, she nurtured those around her. She will be missed dearly.
Karen is preceded in death by her mother, Anna Mae Slack; father, Otto Slack; son-in-law, Rex White; and grandson, Skyler Havens. Karen is survived by; siblings twin sister Sharon Slack, brothers Randy Slack, and William Slack (Victoria Slack); her four children, Crystal Swanson (Justin Swanson), Janet Weeks (Jon Weeks), Brian Havens, and Christina White (Jay Duckworth); grandchildren Ashley Farmer (Matt Farmer), Harley Weeks (Braden Seamen), Jon Weeks, Michael Swanson (Cayla Connor), Cordell Swanson, Austin Swanson, Stacey Womack (Anthony Womack), Amber Malleck (Michael Malleck), Kellie White, Kaleb Havens, Jace Havens, Kiera Havens, and Kameron Havens. 16 great grandchildren and one on the way.
If roses grow in heaven,
Lord, please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother’s arms
And tell her they’re from me.
Tell her I love her and miss her,
And when she turns to smile,
Place a kiss upon her cheek
And hold her for a while.
Because remembering her is easy,
I do it every day,
But there’s an ache within my heart
That will never go away.
Karen’s family will greet visitors during a visitation held at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego, KS, on July 11, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at the funeral home on July 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Jol Klein officiating. Memorial contributions are suggested to Crystal Swanson to be used for medical costs incurred in Karen’s last days. Checks may be made payable to Crystal Swanson and left in care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.
Mary Labbe (Posted 7/2/2025)
Mary Diane (Schmidt) Labbe of Wamego, Ks passed away on June 27, 2025, at Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, Ks. She was born in Hays, Ks, to Sylvester and Evelyn (Marquardt) Schmidt on February 7, 1954. Mary was the sixth child of twelve born to Sylvester and Evelyn. Mary was a cheerleader while attending St. Bernard’s Catholic School until 8th grade and a member of the Wamego High School Class of 1972.
Mary enjoyed watching the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas State Wildcats. She enjoyed dancing and music and one of her all-time favorite songs was Woolly Bully. Her brother David remembers Mary being very competitive at playing Jacks. As she ran, she would snap her fingers, so naturally she was teased by her brothers. There’s even a story of Mary being chased by a rooster that still brings great laughter. She could “run like a deer” on our gravel driveway while being barefoot! Mary had a very giving nature, always sending cards and made sure our family’s graves had flowers on them.
Mary was preceded in death by her father Sylvester (1990), mother Evelyn (2009), three brothers, Jimmy (1949), Mike (2009) and Stan (2015), brother-in-law John Richardson (2008), sister-in-law Marti Schmidt (2020), her father’s three siblings and six of her mother’s siblings.
Mary is survived by her daughter Sara (Christopher) Wooddell, Lawrenceburg, In, and her beloved grandson Dallas Wooddell, Lawrenceburg, In. Siblings Janet Richardson, Topeka, Ks; Jane Fechter, Lawrence, Ks; Janelle Harris, Wamego, Ks; Steve Schmidt, St. George, Ks; David (Janell) Schmidt; Tonganoxie, Ks; John (Molly) Schmidt, Wamego, Ks; Jeanne (Joe) Newton, Hendersonville, Tn; and Lori (Steve) Montgomery, Lawrence, Ks; many nieces and nephews; Uncle Roger Marquardt, Kansas City, Ks; Aunts Joan Rosette, Wheatridge, Co; Mary Lou Marquardt, Marysville, Ks; Mary Ann Marquardt; Kansas City, Ks; and numerous cousins.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 11th, at 10:30am at Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego. Visitation will be prior to the service, beginning at 9:30am. Burial will follow at St. Bernard’s Catholic Cemetery in Wamego.
Mary’s family will be forever grateful for the wonderful care given to her these past three plus years by Valley Vista nursing home in Wamego, and most recently by the Wamego ER, Via Christi ICU and hospice facility, in Manhattan.
Memorial contributions can be made payable to Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, Ks, 66547, and will be determined by the family at a later time. Online condolences may be made at www.campanellastewart.com.
Lonnie Lakin (posted 6/30/2025)
Lonnie Lakin, 66, of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Thursday (June 26, 2025) at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Lonnie was born in Manhattan Kansas, August 31, 1958 to Charles Lakin and Mary J. (Deibler) Lakin. Lonnie’s father tragically died when Lonnie was young. His mother later remarried Victor Claeys who loved and raised Lonnie as his own.
Lonnie married his best friend and high school sweetheart Tammy Sue Piper on October 26, 1979 in St. George, Kansas. Together they were blessed with 3 children. Tammy preceded him in death on May 28, 2010.
Lonnie enjoyed fishing. While living in Florida, he could be found spending time at the beach and deep sea fishing. Lonnie was known for staying busy and always lending a helping hand. He was a “jack of all trades” and could fix or repair anything. He will be remembered as one who was always there to help others.
Lonnie was employed as a utility contractor and later as regional supervisor of the Gulf Coast for UtiliQuest. His work moved the family from Wamego to Kansas City, Virginia and then Florida. Following Tammy’s untimely death, Lonnie joined his family and moved back to Wamego in 2013. Lonnie was self employed for many years, and later worked for Howell Lumber Co, and Oswalt Wrecker Service. Lonnie was well known for his skilled backhoe and excavating work in the Manhattan and surrounding areas.
Survivors include his mother, Mary J. Claeys of St. George, KS; a daughter, Shannon Brown, husband Charles of Wamego; two sons, Jason Lakin, wife Alycea of Wamego and Tanner Lakin, wife Brittany of Westmoreland; five grandchildren, Payton Lakin, Olivia Brown, Destany Brown, Landon Lakin and Logan Lakin; one great granddaughter, Paisley Lakin; one brother; four sisters; and several nieces and nephews
Lonnie was preceded in death by his wife, Tammy; his father, Charles; and his step father, Victor Claeys
Memorial services will be held Wednesday morning (July 9, 2025) at 10:30 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego with Reverend Tony Mattia officiating.
Visitation will be Tuesday evening (July 8, 2025) from 5:00 to 7:00 at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Tuttle Creek Lake Association (TCLA) https://www.tuttlecreek.org/ Checks may be made payable to TCLA and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.
Leroy Hannebaum (posted 6/26/2025)
Leroy Glenn Hannebaum, beloved brother, father, and grandfather, aged 81, passed peacefully surrounded by family at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, Kansas, on Sunday, June 22, 2025.
He was born three days after D-Day, on June 9, 1944, in Salina, KS, the son of Glenn and Opal Hannebaum. They lived on a farm west of Hedville, Kansas. Leroy was the second oldest of four children. He attended school in Culver, KS, where he began dating the love of his life, Linda Hannebaum (nee’ Taylor). Leroy graduated Salutatorian from Culver Rural High School in 1962.
Leroy loved to play sports. In high school he played football, basketball and baseball. He received an invitation to try out for the Kansas City Athletics’ minor league baseball team, but he declined because he had farming chores to do in the summer.
Following high school, Leroy attended Kansas State Teachers College Emporia (now Emporia State University), pursuing a degree in Turf Grass Management. He played on the football team there. Following his junior year, Leroy and Linda got married on August 15, 1965, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Salina, KS. After a honeymoon in Colorado, they made their first home in Leonardville, KS, where Leroy completed his B.S. in Horticulture from Kansas State University, and Linda began her teaching career. Later, he served in the National Guard in Fort Leonard Wood, MO, and was a catcher for the 5th Brigade Eagle baseball team in 1967 where he caught some minor league pitchers.
During and following university, Leroy worked at Blueville Nursery, progressing from a laborer to management; he was an early co-owner. Leroy also taught at Kansas State University, and he felt the students were missing vital information from existing literature. At the suggestion and encouragement of one of his professors at KSU, he pursued a calling to write a textbook and left Blueville to focus on writing. Leroy took a year to write and publish his first book in 1980, “Landscape Operations: management, methods, and materials.” His second book was published in 1981, “Landscape Design: A Practical Approach.” Both publications were edited over the years and republished multiple times. Many universities and colleges utilized them as textbooks for landscape design courses. His second book was published in multiple languages.
Shortly after publishing his first book, Leroy applied his entrepreneurial spirit to his next endeavor; starting his own landscaping company. His company, “Raintree Gardens”, operated for five years (1982-1987), in which Leroy imparted his love of landscaping to many residential projects in and around Manhattan. Leroy completed his career as landscape designer at Blackburn Nursery in Topeka, Kansas, and at Horticultural Services in Saint George, Kansas, retiring from the latter. One of his landscape design projects in his community was the Lee Miller Heights common area design. In retirement, Leroy kept busy as a residential and agricultural landlord.
Leroy and Linda had four children: Ty, Tanya, Tara, and Todd Hannebaum. Leroy and Linda were celebrating 51 years of marriage, when Linda preceded him in death in 2016. Leroy was also preceded in death by two children: Tanya Hannebaum in 2008, and Ty Hannebaum in 2023; his parents, Glenn in 2000 and Opal in 2004; and his sister Lucy in 2020.
Leroy is survived by his children: Tara Hannebaum of Arvada, Colorado, Todd Hannebaum, with his wife Zoya of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, and daughter-in-law, Amy Hannebaum, of Byron, Illinois. Leroy is additionally survived by his siblings: Linda Hyde of Emporia, KS, and Leon Hannebaum, with his wife Judy, of Salina, Kansas. Leroy’s seven grandchildren include: Jordan Hannebaum of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Cole Doebele of York, Nebraska; Jake Hannebaum of Byron, Illinois; Ryan Doebele of Orlando, Florida; Brooke Hannebaum of Byron, Illinois; Chloe Hannebaum of Highlands Ranch, Colorado; and Noah Hannebaum of Highlands Ranch, Colorado.
Leroy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He loved the simple pleasures in life, such as socializing with friends at a local café, watching his favorite sports with his basset hound “Bo,” spending time with his family, and working around the house. To those who knew him best, he was a man of high integrity with a terrific sense of humor, and he will be dearly missed.
A visitation will take place on Tuesday, July 1, from 6-7 pm, at Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home in Manhattan, KS.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at First Lutheran Church in Manhattan, KS followed by burial at Sunrise Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas Children’s Service League in Topeka, Kansas. 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
Florence Ellen Shaw (posted 6/24/2025)
Florence Ellen Shaw, age 93 of Leonardville, passed away Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House.
She was born on June 30, 1931, in Oakland, Nebraska, the daughter of George and Florence Ellen (Miller) Dolhanyk. She graduated from Oakland High School in 1949.
On March 7, 1954, she married Richard Leroy Shaw. He preceded her in death in 2020.
Ellen was a wife and mother first, but also cooked at schools, hotels, retirement homes, and LWR Retreat Center. While living in Nebraska, she worked at the Goodyear Tire factory and Elgin Watch factory. She was a nurse’s aide at several hospitals, a secretary and apartment manager.
She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Cimarron and attended other non-denominational churches. Ellen was an excellent cook and loved her family dearly.
She is survived by one son, Steve Shaw and wife Jennifer of Denver, Colorado; three daughters, Brenda West of Lincoln, Nebraska, Debby Oliver and husband Mark of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Patti Roblyer and husband Monty of Olsburg; seven grandchildren, Christian, Ryan, Caira, Jesse, Drew, Brandi and Dee J, and two great grandchildren, Caleb and Kylan.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, George Dolhanyk; one sister, Phyllis Johnson, and her son-in-law, Bart West.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home with Pastor Sandy Ferguson officiating. Burial will be in the Carnahan Creek Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Good Shepherd Hospice House or the Donor’s Choice in her name. Contributions may be left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
Gary Gene “Lucky” Francis (posted 6/20/2025)
Gary Gene “Lucky” Francis, age 76 of Leonardville, passed away Thursday, June 19, 2025, at his residence.
He was born on September 3, 1948, in Ottawa, the son of Bruce L. and Ellvene M. (Edgren) Francis. He graduated from Blue Valley High School and served in the U.S. Army following high school.
Lucky worked for the City of Clay Center, City of Enterprise and Bayer Construction in his younger years. He was a high voltage electrician at Fort Riley for 25 years. He was a member of the American Legion and N.R.A. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and his dogs. He was an avid KU Jayhawk basketball and football fan and cheered for the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals.
He is survived by his partner of 44 years, Audrey Fritz of Leonardville; two daughters, Angie Carrara and Amy Graves; several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Dick Francis and Norman Francis, Sr.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. Burial with Military Honors will be in the Walsburg Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Blue Valley Ball Association or Light Up 66449 and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
Delbert Taylor (Posted 6/20/2025)
Delbert Dale Taylor, 82, passed away on Wednesday, June 4th, 2025, at 10:05 pm at the Good Shepherd Hospice House. He was born on July 5, 1943, to Doris Taylor and Thelma (King) Taylor in Freemont, NE.
Family moved to Bucklin, MO – where he grew up from toddler age to High School graduate. During this time, his dad worked for Santa Fe Railroad and his mom was a homemaker.
Del was in sports – track team and baseball in high school. He dabbled in some drafting design as well. After high school, he worked at Hallmark Card in KC, MO. Where he met his first wife Linda Hooton – married in 1963 then divorced in 1986.
Del was scoutmaster of a St. George, KS troop from 1976 to about 1979 when he moved to Manhattan, KS.
After Hallmark Cards he worked for Manner Bakers which was a house-to-house bread and cake delivery service. Following suit was Wonder Bread the Mass Merchandisers.
From 1977 to 1992, he worked for Food-4-Less where he met his second wife, Katherine Hess (Kathy) – they married in 1990. She passed in 1997.
He worked at Quaker Oats Factory from 1992 to 1995. His last job of his career was Walmart where he started as a janitor then moved to GM stocking shelves. He worked here for 24 years till he retired in 2019.
Del enjoyed drafting and woodworking in his spare time during his married life with Kathy. He made various cabinets, bookshelves, magazines and coat racks, TV stands and other wood decorations. He sold some pieces and gave some as gifts. He gave up this craft when he started to work full-time at Walmart.
He and his wife Kathy were very much into Native American art, furniture, and lots of Native American decorations. Whenever they traveled on vacation or to casinos, they would pick up another item and add it to their collection. Their home was beautifully decorated with these items.
Delbert is preceded in death by his parents, Doris and Thelma Taylor, his wife Kathy Taylor, his stepsister Maysel Houtchens, and his younger brother David Taylor.
He is survived by his sister, Myrna (Diane) Taylor of Santa Monica, CA., his children Scott Kevin Taylor and (Lynn) of Grovetown, GA., Rashelle Diane Dillon and (Joe) of Manhattan, KS. His beloved grandchildren Amanda Katelyn Reader and (Andrew) of Lafayette, IN., Danielle Marie Dillon of Parker, CO., Noah Taylor Dilon of Manhattan, KS., Jessica L. Porter (Kevin) of Olympia, WA. and Brandon T. Pop (Marissa) of Martinez, GA. His great-grandchildren Clayton L. Porter, Alexandria L. Porter, and Bradley L Porter.
Memorial services will be held at 10:00a.m. Saturday July 19, 2025, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel in Manhattan. Inurnment will take place at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
Memorial contributions in memory of Delbert are suggested to the American Cancer Society. 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
Niel Nielsen (posted 6/20/2025)
Niel Peter Nielsen, age 82, of Manhattan, passed away Sunday June 15, 2025, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan.
Niel was born in St. Cloud, Minnesota on July 22, 1942, the son of the late Peter and Rose (Kieko) Nielsen. He was a graduate of Sauk Rapids High School in 1960. After high school Niel worked at Thoele Dental Laboratories for five years.
Niel served in the U.S. Army and served in Saigon, Vietnam from November 10, 1965, to November 8, 1968. He served time in Fort Riley, and he received a National Defense service medal, Vietnam service medal, Vietnam Campaign medal, W-60 defense technician service medal, honor medals, sharp service rifle medal, and two overseas medals.
Niel married Shirley (Kaufholz) in Manhattan on August 3, 1968. Niel and Shirley have been married for almost 57 years. Niel and Shirley adopted two children, a girl, Bonnie Nielsen at five days old and a son, Bryan who was three days old.
He enjoyed and had a talent for creating things out of steel and made knives and letter openers. Niel also loved making things out of wood. Niel was a member of a Forge Club and Woodworkers Club.
Niel is survived by his wife, Shirley of Manhattan, a sister Esther Hackett of Rice Minnesota, a brother-in-law, Larry Hackett both of Rice Minnesota; sisters-in-law Sharon Neugent and Carol Kaufholz of Manhattan, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Bryan and his daughter Bonnie Kay.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00a.m. Tuesday June 24, 2025, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel in Manhattan, with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements.
LaVere Louise Meinholdt (Posted 6/19/2025)
LaVere Louise Meinholdt, 87, of Emporia, Kansas, formerly of Wamego, died Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Presbyterian Manor in Emporia. LaVere was a life-long resident of the Alma and Wamego communities until her move to Emporia in 2009 to be closer to family.
LaVere was born December 29, 1937, in Alma, the daughter of John F. and Mary J. (Schweir) Hasenbank. She attended local grade school and graduated from Wamego High School in 1956. LaVere enjoyed all the many activities of a girl raised in rural Kansas, riding her bike, roller skating, playing Jacks and enjoying imaginary tea parties with her own set of dishes and dolls. In later years LaVere would share those stories with her granddaughters and enjoy their tea parties with dishes she had saved from her youth. And she taught each of them how to play jacks.
LaVere married Frank D. Meinholdt on November 11, 1956, in Wamego. The shared their lives, raised their family and cared for each other for sixty-four years until his death on February 12, 2021. LaVere was a proud homemaker but also worked as a city clerk, a secretary for the Wamego Telephone Company and the Wamego Times and assisted at the local flower shop. Over the years she also sold Avon. LaVere loved coffee with friends, and she often volunteered at the local hospital. She was a member of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Wamego and Messiah Lutheran Church in Emporia.
LaVere loved to sew and was a talented seamstress and quilt maker. She enjoyed crocheting Afghans and baby blankets as well as well as sewing clothes for her granddaughters and their dolls. She was a member of a quilting guild and would often frequent quilt shops around Kansas and nearby states. For twenty years, LaVere made small individual Christmas stockings, filled with goodies, for her daughter-in-law’s elementary classes as well as other items for the classroom. LaVere and Frank loved spending time with their family. She enjoyed watching their dance recitals, sporting events and 4-H activities. She enjoyed cooking and was especially fond of making desserts.
LaVere is survived by her son, Alan Meinholdt (Nancy), Emporia; her granddaughters, Rachel Stubbs (Murphy), Cindy Symmonds (Peter), both of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, and Karen Gering (Jordan), Paola, Kansas; as well as her great-grandchildren, Arthur, Hudson, and Owen. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Campanella and Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego. Inurnment will follow in Wamego City Cemetery. The family will greet friends prior to the service beginning at 10:00 am. They suggest memorial contributions to Quilts for Valor (an organization that makes quilts for veterans) or Presbyterian Manor of Emporia. Please make checks out to the organization and then you may send those in care of the funeral home at PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547. Online condolences may be left at www.campanellastewart.com.
Roger Barta (Posted 6/19/2025)
Roger Barta—beloved husband, dad, grandpa, friend, and legendary football coach peacefully passed away on June 16, 2025, at Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, Kansas. If heaven has a football team, you can bet he is already drawing up plays and building something special, one relationship at a time.
Born July 11, 1945, in Ellsworth, Kansas, to Stephen and Bernice Barta, Roger’s early years in Plainville shaped the man he would become. A four-sport athlete, National Honor Society member, and part-time grocery stocker, hospital builder, oil field hand, and lifeguard—Roger had hustle in his DNA. He carried that work ethic with him to Fort Hays State University, where he studied math education, joined Sigma Tau Gamma, and—finally—caught the eye of Pam Weir, a familiar face from Plainville who would become his partner for life. They married August 19, 1967.
Roger began his teaching and coaching career in Atwood, Kansas, later earning a prestigious National Science and Math Grant to complete his master’s degree at the University of Georgia. From there, he taught and coached in Tonganoxie and Wakeeney. During those years, the Barta family grew with the addition of Brooks, Shelby, and Carrie. But in 1978, a phone call from fraternity brother Ken Depperschmidt led Roger to Smith Center—and the town that would become synonymous with his name.
As head football coach and high school math teacher at Smith Center High School, Roger built more than a dynasty—he built a culture rooted in humility, hard work, and love. Under his leadership, the Redmen won 8 state championships and, at one point, 79 consecutive games. But as chronicled in Our Boys: A Perfect Season on the Plains with the Smith Center Redmen, Roger’s greatest impact was not measured in wins. It was seen in how he molded boys into young men, how he spoke about life more than football, and how he guided his team, his school, and his community with quiet strength and unshakable values.
The story of “Our Boys” reached readers around the country, but to the people of Smith Center and all who knew Roger personally, it simply affirmed what they already knew: he was one of a kind. A coach, a mentor, a father figure, and a fierce believer that love was the greatest motivator.
After retiring from the classroom at 65, Roger stayed on the sidelines a couple more years, finally quietly leaving the field at 67. Smith Center honored him with a street in his name—but even that could not quite capture the size of his legacy. In retirement, Roger and Pam moved to Manhattan, Kansas, where they spent the last decade cheering on their grandchildren, watching football, and living with the same grace and gratitude that defined his coaching days.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Bernice Barta.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Pam Barta; his children Brooks (Tonya) Barta of Holton, Shelby (Larry) Villano of Phoenix, and Carrie (Mitch) Beims of Wichita; grandchildren Mason (Rebekkah) Barta, Tabor Barta, Alexa and Connor Villano, Tanner, Mia and Paige Gawith, and Jack Beims; and step-grandchildren Braden and Berkley Beims. He also leaves behind his sister Phyllis (Steve) Snook of Council Bluffs, Iowa, many loving nieces and nephews, and a beloved brotherhood of players, coaches, and friends who will carry his words—and his wisdom—with them forever.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Manhattan on Friday, June 27th at 10:30 a.m., with a luncheon and gathering to follow in the Utopia Room, the church gathering space.
Graveside services will take place in Smith Center on Saturday, June 28 at 10:30 am at Smith Center Cemetery with a Celebration of Life following at Smith Center High School at 11:30a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Smith Center High School Activity Fund with proceeds to go towards the football program or Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House in Manhattan. 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
Coach Barta once said, “What we do really well around here is raise kids…None of this is really about football. What we are doing is sending kids into life who know that every day means something.” By that measure, he was the greatest of champions. And now, he leaves the field with the game well played—and the hearts of so many forever changed.
John Henderson (Posted 6/17/2025)
John Dirk Henderson died on June 13, 2025, at Stormont Vail in Topeka, Kansas.
A graveside service will be held in his honor at 1:00 p.m. on June 19, 2025, in the Eskridge Cemetery with the Fort Riley Army Detail and the American Legion Post 172 performing Military Honors.
A Complete obituary is pending and will be announced by Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego.
Ronald Edward Walsh (Posted 6/16/2025)
Ronald Edward Walsh, 81, known to many as Ron, embarked on his final journey on June 6, 2025, at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice in Manhattan, Kansas, surrounded by the love of his family.
Ron was born on December 11, 1943, in Westmoreland, Kansas, to parents Edward Michael and Betty Arletta (Releford) Walsh.
Ron married Ruth Elaine Dekat on June 18, 1962, in St. Joseph Catholic Church, Flush, Kansas. They shared 63 years; Ruth survives at the home.
Ron was a skilled drywall finisher, dedicating many years to residential and commercial projects, notably with Heartland Construction and later with his own business, R.W. Drywall. Ron’s wit and quick tongue helped him in his other career as an auctioneer at R.W. Auction Service.
Ron had many passions, one of which was caring for a hobby farm with Ruth, where they raised cattle, horses, hens, and even a few peacocks. He found joy in teaching his children and grandchildren all about horse-drawn buggies.
Known for living without fear, some people would say Ron had more lives than a cat. His sobriety of 52 years was a badge of honor, and he always had time to help others overcome their challenges in their sobriety. His stubbornness was legendary, but it was always backed by a heart that overflowed with love for his family and friends.
Ron is survived by an incredible family, including his children Rodney E. Walsh (Michelle Daugherty), Lori K. Hall (Mark), Annette C. Brownell (Clint), and David A. Walsh (Kathy). He was the proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren—Rhonda, Eric, Christopher, Dandra, Chase, Wade, Amber, Matt, Josh, Brigham, Ashley, Dexter, Amanda, Amber, and Amelia; 26 great-grandchildren with 2 on the way; and 5 great-great-grandchildren. His siblings, Jim Walsh (Nina), Rick Walsh, Barb Henry, and Mike Walsh (Diane), along with many cherished nieces and nephews, also survive him.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jerry Walsh, sister-in-law Christy Walsh, brother-in-law Marvin Henry, son-in-law Scott Manor, and great-granddaughter Aydan Manor.
Ron’s family will greet visitors during a Visitation held at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego, KS, on June 20, 2025, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. A Memorial Service at the funeral home will follow the visitation at 6:00 p.m. with Rob Campanella officiating.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice.
Stephen Jones (Posted 6/16/2025)
Stephen Choquette Jones, age 76, of Manhattan, passed away Friday June 13, 2025, at the Home of the Flint Hills in St. George, Kansas.
He was born on September 2, 1948, in Lynwood, California, the son of Evan and Alice (Choquette) Jones. Stephen had a love for music at a youthful age. He attended Weber State University and earned his bachelor’s degree in music performance in 1975, and attended Arizona State University in 1976, earning his master’s degree in music performance. He later attended the University of Utah and graduated with his bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1984. Stephen in 2004 earned two master’s degrees from Syracuse University in business administration and public administration, and a master’s degree in national resource strategy from the National Defense University, Industrial College of the Armed Forces in 2010.
Stephen served in the Air Force from 1972 until 1977 and was a member of the Air Force Band. He played the trumpet professionally for many years when he was younger. He worked for a couple of years with the accounting firm of Arthur Anderson and Co. Then, in 1986 he began his Federal Government career with the Army Audit Agency. He had many different financial management positions while working for the Army. Stephen served in Germany for a lengthy period and later at the Pentagon until he retired in 2014.
While in Germany, he met his wife Cynthia Mickey in 1992. They were united in marriage on October 28, 1996, in Honolulu, Hawaii. They were blessed with two children, Stephen and Jenna.
Stephen enjoyed traveling all over the world. He and Cindy traveled throughout Europe and to Egypt when they first were together. He loved animals of all kinds and enjoyed having some unusual pets during his life. He and his wife Cindy bred and sold exotic reptiles for several years from their home business, MorphMakers, in Northern Virginia.
Stephen loved his family and was a demonstrative, welcoming, and caring individual. He was very outgoing and enjoyed meeting and visiting with people. A lifelong New York Yankees fan, he frequently wore his Yankees gear, which often prompted conversations with people he just met.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister-in-law Penny Edwards.
He is survived by his wife Cindy of Manhattan, Kansas, and his children Stephen D. Jones, of Clovis, New Mexico and Jenna M. Jones, of Las Vegas, Nevada; his mother and father-in-law, Sherry and Dave Mickey; his sister-in-law Susan Mullin (Ken); his nephew Chris Moseler; also his children from his prior marriage, Heather M. Flinders, of West Jordan, Utah and Jason C. Jones, of Lander, Wyoming; his sister Karen Martin; his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
The family would like to give a special thank you to Baby Boomers Home Healthcare, Springfield, Virginia; At Home Care, Manhattan, Kansas; Home of the Flint Hills, St. George, Kansas; and St. Croix Hospice, Manhattan, Kansas, for the care that was provided for Stephen and the family over the years.
Graveside services for Stephen will be held at 1:00p.m. Wednesday June 18, 2025, at the Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan, with Rev. Melanie Nord officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Stephen are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention 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
Dustin Webber (Posted 6/13/2025)
Dustin John Webber, age 49 of Riley, passed away Sunday, June 8, 2025.
He was born on March 30, 1976, in Manhattan, the son of Virgil “John” and Linda (Simnitt) Webber. He graduated from Riley County High School in 1994.
He married Jennifer Ann Smith on August 23, 1997, at the Sedalia Community Church.
Dustin was the quintessential athlete—an All-State Quarterback, an All-State Basketball Player, and an All-State High Jumper during his time at Riley County High School. He not only left his mark in the record books with numerous football and basketball records but also enjoyed playing Men’s Softball and Co-Rec Softball. His passion for sports went beyond just participating; he dedicated time to coaching traveling teams and at the junior high and high school levels for football, basketball, and baseball. His enthusiastic spirit and knowledge made a lasting impact on the young athletes he guided. He found joy in collecting sports cards with his sons.
Dustin made a career in Information Technology, working for Farm Bureau Insurance, serving as the Director for U.S.D. 378 Riley County Schools, and most recently Manhattan Christian College.
He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Webber of Riley; three sons, Ty Webber, Trent Webber, and Trey Webber all of Riley; his mother, Linda Webber of Riley; four brothers, Chad Clark (Pam) of St. George, Troy Clark (Jami) of Manhattan, Bill Clark (Chris) of Manhattan, and John Webber, Jr. (Sheila) of Clearwater, Florida, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by one son, Kaleb John Webber, and his father, Virgil “John” Webber.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in the South Gym of the Riley County High School with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. Private family inurnment will be in the Randolph Fancy Creek Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Dustin Webber Memorial Fund and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
Myron Lund (Posted 6/13/2025)
Myron Allan Lund, age 93 of Leonardville, passed away Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the Leonardville Nursing Home.
He was born on April 12, 1932, on the family farm, north of Leonardville, the son of Elmer David and Ellen Marie (Johnson) Lund.
On May 16, 1954, he married Alice Mae Richter at the Zion Fancy Creek Church Parsonage and enjoyed 63 years of marriage before Alice preceded him in death in 2018.
Myron farmed in the Alert community his entire life. He was a Bonded Livestock Order Buyer and member of the Alert Covenant Church. Myron had an unwavering faith in God through the ups and downs of life and could be heard whistling his favorite hymns.
He is survived by four children; Nancy Hofmann and husband Galen of Leonardville, Delbert Lund and wife LuAnn of Leonardville, Marla Peterson and husband David of Assaria, and Joyce Beck and husband Joe of Clay Center; twelve grandchildren, Gayle Johnson (Shaun), Michelle Ahumada (Javier), Darren Hofmann (Bethany), Rebecca Blackburn (Andrew), Ashley Runyan (Adam), Ryan Lund (Annelise), Greg Peterson (BrookeAnna), Nathan Peterson (Riley), Kendal Peterson (Caelan), Laura Clawson (Walker), Lundee Regier (Nick), and Kolten Beck (Carley); his great grandchildren, Annika and Lillian Ahumada, Layla, Cora and Jack Johnson, Henry, Levi and Anna Hofmann, Boston and Ellis Blackburn, Carter and Brayden Runyan, Clark, Arlo and Ida Mae Lund, Brighton and Steele Peterson, Henley, Owen and Natalie Peterson, Blair, Ada and Grady Peterson, Aubrey Clawson and one on the way, Lantry, Emmeline and Conrad Regier, and Wesley Beck; his brother-in-law, Neil Richter; his sisters-in-law, Twila Olson (Glen), Marcene Richter, Lois Grittman (Dean) and Sherre Johnson (Lowell); many nieces, nephews, and his friends, including those at the Leonardville Nursing Home.
In addition to his wife, Alice Lund, he was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Joshua Peterson and Heidi Peterson; six siblings, Lenore Isaacson (Carl), Duane Lund (Jean), Viola Fellers (Kenny), Eunice Toepffer (Vic), Janice Krienitz (John) and Donald Lund (Helen); three infant sisters, Ruby, Ruth and Ester Lund, and one brother-in-law, Arlo Richter.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 16, 2025, at the Alert Covenant Church with Pastor Dwight Diller officiating. The family will receive friends from 3:30 until 5:00 p.m. Sunday at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Alert Covenant Church or Leonardville Nursing Home and left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.apfunerals.com.
June Emily Crumpler (Posted 6/10/2025)
June Emily Crumpler, 88, formerly of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Sunday (June 8, 2025) at Meadowlark Hills in Manhattan.
Born June 3, 1937 in Spokane, Washington, June was the daughter of Burt H. and Emily (Shorter) Adams. She married Hoke Edward Crumpler on June 22, 1955 in Martinez, California. He preceded her in death on March 16, 2019.
A strong woman of faith, June was active with the Church of Christ where she taught Sunday School for many years and helped mentor younger women. June and Hoke were Foster Parents for infants for Christian Family Services for several year. June loved sewing and arts & crafts and more recently solving jigsaw puzzles.
June was a stay at home wife and mother who loved caring for her family.
Survivors include two children; Leroy Crumpler (Barbara) of Independence, MO and Nanette Willette (Bob) of Wamego; six grandchildren, Charmain Purvis, Amber Purvis (Michael Smalley), Burt Crumpler, Serena Crumpler, Christopher Willette (Colleen) and Laurie Willette; ten great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
June was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Hoke; a daughter, Daphene Crumpler; and four sisters, Hazel, Marion, Fran and Alberta.
A Celebration of June’s life will be held Friday afternoon (June 13, 2025) at 1:00 p.m. at the Manhattan Church of Christ (2510 Dickens Ave) with Kevin Skidmore officiating. Burial will be in the Wamego City Cemetery.
Visitation will be Thursday evening (June 12, 2025) from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Christian Family Services or In Search of the Lord’s Way. Please make checks payable to the organization of your choice and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.