Thomas Virgil Phelan passed away on Friday, January 22, 2021, at John C. Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 69. He was born on November 19, 1951 in Great Bend, Kansas. 

A Midwestern man at heart, he grew up in the small town of Holyrood, Kansas and attended Holyrood Rural High School, Barton County Community College, Fort Hays State University and Emporia State University. In his younger years, he worked for Air Midwest, Inc. and had the opportunity to travel the globe but loved Kansas most of all. 

A creative thinker and entrepreneur, Tom conceptualized, founded and operated Plum Creek Kennel with his brothers, Mark and John Phelan and friend Dave Robinette. He was a free spirit and his adventures have become family legends. In 2007, Tom moved to Phoenix, Arizona. 

A proud father and grandfather, he spent his later years supporting his grandchildren from the sidelines of all their sporting events and never turned down the opportunity to babysit. 

Tom is loved and adored by his daughter Tess, son-in-law Spencer and their children, Harper, Quinn and Arie Chupinsky and son Cody, daughter-in-law Lauren and their children Mya, Brooklyn and Parker Phelan. He is also survived by his sister Rita McCarthy and brothers, Patrick, Dennis, Mark and John Phelan, devoted friend Debbie Hughes and 14 nieces and nephews and their families.

<a href="https://www.hansenmortuary.com/">Hansen Mortuaries</a> is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624647460331.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas Virgil Phelan passed away on Friday, January 22, 2021, at John C. Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 69. He was born on November 19, 1951 in Great Bend, Kansas. A Midwestern man at heart, he grew up in the small town of Holyrood, Kansas and attended Holyrood Rural High School, Barton County Community College, Fort Hays State University and Emporia State University. In his younger years, he worked for Air Midwest, Inc. and had the opportunity to travel the globe but loved Kansas most of all. A creative thinker and entrepreneur, Tom conceptualized, founded and operated Plum Creek Kennel with his brothers, Mark and John Phelan and friend Dave Robinette. He was a free spirit and his adventures have become family legends. In 2007, Tom moved to Phoenix, Arizona. A proud father and grandfather, he spent his later years supporting his grandchildren from the sidelines of all their sporting events and never turned down the opportunity to babysit. Tom is loved and adored by his daughter Tess, son-in-law Spencer and their children, Harper, Quinn and Arie Chupinsky and son Cody, daughter-in-law Lauren and their children Mya, Brooklyn and Parker Phelan. He is also survived by his sister Rita McCarthy and brothers, Patrick, Dennis, Mark and John Phelan, devoted friend Debbie Hughes and 14 nieces and nephews and their families.<a href="https://www.hansenmortuary.com/">Hansen Mortuaries</a> is in charge of arrangements.

Thomas Virgil Phelan

Billy Joe “Bill” Mawhiney, 92, passed away June 5, 2021, at Country Place Senior Living, Hoisington. He was born February 19, 1929, in Altamont, Kansas, to Wesley and Christine (Poer) Mawhiney. Bill married his high school sweetheart Alberta Ann Aldridge on March 31, 1951, in Parsons, Kansas. They had recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

Bill has been a resident of Hoisington since 1971 when he and Alberta moved from Great Bend. His early days were spent in Altamont, Parsons, and Coffeyville, Kansas. During the Korean War, he proudly served his country, as a Tech Sgt. in the Army Reserves. Bill spent the majority of his career in the insurance industry. He was employed as an insurance adjuster by General Adjustment Bureau which took their family to live in Norfolk and McCook, Nebraska, and then Great Bend in 1964. It was in 1971 when Bill and Alberta purchased the V.L. Durand Insurance Agency in Hoisington, which later transitioned to the Mawhiney Insurance Agency. He served area residents with their insurance needs until his retirement in 1992. Bill was an active member of the Hoisington First United Methodist Church and served as a Barton County Community College trustee for several years. He officiated Nebraska and Kansas high school football games for 48 years. In his younger years, Bill was an accomplished athlete, holding many records and reaching the pinnacle of being professionally drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies. Bill loved his family, friends and home. He loved his vegetable garden, especially his tomatoes and delighted in giving tractor rides to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was an avid sports fan and loved to watch whatever game was on. He and Alberta traveled with their close friends to K-State games, with the college trustees and on their own taking several bus tours as well as visiting family. He had coffee with his cronies twice a day for many years and delivered meals to seniors as well. He was a friend to all and greeted everyone with a warm smile and twinkle in his eye.

Survivors include: his wife of the home, Alberta Ann Mawhiney; two sons, Mark Mawhiney and wife Kim of Overland Park, Kansas, and Brad Mawhiney and wife Cyndi of Gardner, Kansas; two daughters, Janet Koester and husband Duane of Hoisington, Kansas, and Lisa Baum and husband Bob of Great Bend, Kansas; nine grandchildren, Brett Mawhiney and wife Kati, Blair Uriell and husband Brandon, Megan Bray and husband Jerron, Brian Koester and wife Brooke, Audrey Koester, Sarah Lober and husband Kyle, Allison Klingenberg and husband Grant, Amanda Malone and husband Jake, and Matt Mawhiney and wife Jaci; and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in passing by one brother, Gerald Madison Mawhiney and by two sisters, Sara Florine Woodward and Freda Jane Warbinton.

Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 2, 2021, at First United Methodist Church in Hoisington with Rev. Chris Lehew and Chaplain Jeffrey Owen presiding. The family will receive friends prior to the service. Inurnment will follow at the Hoisington Cemetery at 1 p.m., for those wishing to attend. Memorials may be given to First United Methodist Church or Kindred Hospice in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624627756754.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dateline – HoisingtonBilly Joe “Bill” Mawhiney, 92, passed away June 5, 2021, at Country Place Senior Living, Hoisington. He was born February 19, 1929, in Altamont, Kansas, to Wesley and Christine (Poer) Mawhiney. Bill married his high school sweetheart Alberta Ann Aldridge on March 31, 1951, in Parsons, Kansas. They had recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.Bill has been a resident of Hoisington since 1971 when he and Alberta moved from Great Bend. His early days were spent in Altamont, Parsons, and Coffeyville, Kansas. During the Korean War, he proudly served his country, as a Tech Sgt. in the Army Reserves. Bill spent the majority of his career in the insurance industry. He was employed as an insurance adjuster by General Adjustment Bureau which took their family to live in Norfolk and McCook, Nebraska, and then Great Bend in 1964. It was in 1971 when Bill and Alberta purchased the V.L. Durand Insurance Agency in Hoisington, which later transitioned to the Mawhiney Insurance Agency. He served area residents with their insurance needs until his retirement in 1992. Bill was an active member of the Hoisington First United Methodist Church and served as a Barton County Community College trustee for several years. He officiated Nebraska and Kansas high school football games for 48 years. In his younger years, Bill was an accomplished athlete, holding many records and reaching the pinnacle of being professionally drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies. Bill loved his family, friends and home. He loved his vegetable garden, especially his tomatoes and delighted in giving tractor rides to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was an avid sports fan and loved to watch whatever game was on. He and Alberta traveled with their close friends to K-State games, with the college trustees and on their own taking several bus tours as well as visiting family. He had coffee with his cronies twice a day for many years and delivered meals to seniors as well. He was a friend to all and greeted everyone with a warm smile and twinkle in his eye.Survivors include: his wife of the home, Alberta Ann Mawhiney; two sons, Mark Mawhiney and wife Kim of Overland Park, Kansas, and Brad Mawhiney and wife Cyndi of Gardner, Kansas; two daughters, Janet Koester and husband Duane of Hoisington, Kansas, and Lisa Baum and husband Bob of Great Bend, Kansas; nine grandchildren, Brett Mawhiney and wife Kati, Blair Uriell and husband Brandon, Megan Bray and husband Jerron, Brian Koester and wife Brooke, Audrey Koester, Sarah Lober and husband Kyle, Allison Klingenberg and husband Grant, Amanda Malone and husband Jake, and Matt Mawhiney and wife Jaci; and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in passing by one brother, Gerald Madison Mawhiney and by two sisters, Sara Florine Woodward and Freda Jane Warbinton.Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 2, 2021, at First United Methodist Church in Hoisington with Rev. Chris Lehew and Chaplain Jeffrey Owen presiding. The family will receive friends prior to the service. Inurnment will follow at the Hoisington Cemetery at 1 p.m., for those wishing to attend. Memorials may be given to First United Methodist Church or Kindred Hospice in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

Billy Joe “Bill” Mawhiney

Robert “Bob” Wooding, 94, passed away peacefully at home June 24, 2021. He was born in New Haven, Conn., on February 5, 1927, to Franklin and Bertha (Gilbert) Wooding. He married Bernice Ann Humiston, March 18, 1950.

Survivors include his wife of the home; three children, Earle, Bettejane and Ben; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. No services will be held

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624625332213.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dateline: Great Bend, KansasRobert “Bob” Wooding, 94, passed away peacefully at home June 24, 2021. He was born in New Haven, Conn., on February 5, 1927, to Franklin and Bertha (Gilbert) Wooding. He married Bernice Ann Humiston, March 18, 1950.Survivors include his wife of the home; three children, Earle, Bettejane and Ben; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. No services will be held

Robert “Bob” Wooding

Sandra Jean Mostrog, 79, of Hot Springs Village, AR went to be with her 
Heavenly Father on June 17, 2021. Sandy was born October 15, 1941, to Ed 
and Ann Martin in Nevada, Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp; The daughter of a Lutheran Pastor 
and School Teacher mother, she is a lifelong Lutheran. She was a Midweek
 School Catechism teacher at Trinity Lutheran Church in Great Bend, KS, 
served on various church committees there and served as Chair of the 
Missions Committee at Community of Joy Lutheran Church in Hot Springs 
Village where she was also served as a Stephen Minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;
 Sandy is preceded in death by her parents and half sister Evelyn 
Krejci.&nbsp; She is survived by her loving husband Jerry of Hot Springs 
Village, AR, son Shannon Donley and wife Doree of Magnet Cove, AR, step 
daughter Amy Alpert and husband Cary of West Bloomfield, MI, and nieces 
Kym Sartin and Kayleen Davis, of Morrison and Broken Arrow, OK. &nbsp;
 Sandy attended Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield 
and Drury University in Springfield where she received a BA in 
Religion/Ethics with a Minor in Creative Writing. She received a BA in 
Behavioral Science from Sterling College in Sterling, KS and an MA in 
Counseling Psychology from Fort Hays State University in Hays, KS. &nbsp;She 
owned Personal Growth Unlimited, Inc. in Great Bend where she was in 
private practice as a therapist, and was a Professor of Psychology and 
Sociology at Barton County College in Great Bend and was awarded 
Community College Teacher of the Year Award from Kansas State 
University.&nbsp; She owned Behavioral Associates in Little Rock where she 
had a private practice as a child and family therapist, and was a 
Seminar and Workshop Presenter in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. She 
served on the Board of Directors of Great Bend Britt-Spaugh Zoo, the 
Great Bend Humane Society, the Kansas Golden Belt Diabetes Association, 
and worked as a fundraiser for the HSV Animal Welfare League. Sandy 
loved reading, decorating, cooking, entertaining, and being with her 
husband Jerry and their Shih Tzu Max.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
 A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of 
flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity. Online 
condolences can be made at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624550539315.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sandra Jean Mostrog, 79, of Hot Springs Village, AR went to be with her 
Heavenly Father on June 17, 2021. Sandy was born October 15, 1941, to Ed 
and Ann Martin in Nevada, Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp; The daughter of a Lutheran Pastor 
and School Teacher mother, she is a lifelong Lutheran. She was a Midweek
 School Catechism teacher at Trinity Lutheran Church in Great Bend, KS, 
served on various church committees there and served as Chair of the 
Missions Committee at Community of Joy Lutheran Church in Hot Springs 
Village where she was also served as a Stephen Minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;
 Sandy is preceded in death by her parents and half sister Evelyn 
Krejci.&nbsp; She is survived by her loving husband Jerry of Hot Springs 
Village, AR, son Shannon Donley and wife Doree of Magnet Cove, AR, step 
daughter Amy Alpert and husband Cary of West Bloomfield, MI, and nieces 
Kym Sartin and Kayleen Davis, of Morrison and Broken Arrow, OK. &nbsp;
 Sandy attended Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield 
and Drury University in Springfield where she received a BA in 
Religion/Ethics with a Minor in Creative Writing. She received a BA in 
Behavioral Science from Sterling College in Sterling, KS and an MA in 
Counseling Psychology from Fort Hays State University in Hays, KS. &nbsp;She 
owned Personal Growth Unlimited, Inc. in Great Bend where she was in 
private practice as a therapist, and was a Professor of Psychology and 
Sociology at Barton County College in Great Bend and was awarded 
Community College Teacher of the Year Award from Kansas State 
University.&nbsp; She owned Behavioral Associates in Little Rock where she 
had a private practice as a child and family therapist, and was a 
Seminar and Workshop Presenter in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. She 
served on the Board of Directors of Great Bend Britt-Spaugh Zoo, the 
Great Bend Humane Society, the Kansas Golden Belt Diabetes Association, 
and worked as a fundraiser for the HSV Animal Welfare League. Sandy 
loved reading, decorating, cooking, entertaining, and being with her 
husband Jerry and their Shih Tzu Max.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
 A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of 
flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity. Online 
condolences can be made at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.

Sandra Jean Mostrog

Lila J. (Schamaun) Bowman, 91, passed away June 20, 2021, at Medicalodges of Great Bend. She was born January 4, 1930, at Rush Center, to Albert &amp; Pauline (Maier) Brack. She married Donald D. Schamaun December 11, 1949, at Bazine and they later divorced.

Coming from Bazine in 1959, Lila was a Great Bend resident. She was a cosmetologist and then worked as a switchboard operator for CKMC and part-time as a food demonstrator. Lila enjoyed baking. Her caramel rolls and cookies were unmatched, but she was most fondly known as the "bierock lady." She especially loved spending time with her family.

Survivors include a son, Michael Schamaun (Vicki) of New Braunfels, Texas; three daughters, Diana Roberts (Ken), and Lana Dietz (Delane), all of Great Bend, and Julie Bryant of Sun City, Ariz.; a brother, Dean Brack of Weeping Water, Neb.; a sister, Jeanette Foos and husband Franklin of Bazine; a sister in law, Esther Brack of Colorado Springs, Colo.; six grandchildren, Nicole Soukup, Natalie Gilmer (Sam), Ashley Campbell (Michael), Shane Schamaun (Desi), Brittany Magin (Ian), and Michael Dietz; 11 great-grandchildren, and another great-grandson and a great- great-granddaughter due in November; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Orval Brack and Dale Brack; a sister and brother in law, Norma and Fred Erb; grandson, T.J. Dietz; and two great-grandsons, Kellan Soukup and Gabriel Campbell.

Per Lila’s wishes, there will be no ceremony as cremation has taken place. Memorials have been designated to Kans for Kids or Kindred Hospice, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624384001190.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dateline: Great Bend, KansasLila J. (Schamaun) Bowman, 91, passed away June 20, 2021, at Medicalodges of Great Bend. She was born January 4, 1930, at Rush Center, to Albert &amp; Pauline (Maier) Brack. She married Donald D. Schamaun December 11, 1949, at Bazine and they later divorced.Coming from Bazine in 1959, Lila was a Great Bend resident. She was a cosmetologist and then worked as a switchboard operator for CKMC and part-time as a food demonstrator. Lila enjoyed baking. Her caramel rolls and cookies were unmatched, but she was most fondly known as the "bierock lady." She especially loved spending time with her family.Survivors include a son, Michael Schamaun (Vicki) of New Braunfels, Texas; three daughters, Diana Roberts (Ken), and Lana Dietz (Delane), all of Great Bend, and Julie Bryant of Sun City, Ariz.; a brother, Dean Brack of Weeping Water, Neb.; a sister, Jeanette Foos and husband Franklin of Bazine; a sister in law, Esther Brack of Colorado Springs, Colo.; six grandchildren, Nicole Soukup, Natalie Gilmer (Sam), Ashley Campbell (Michael), Shane Schamaun (Desi), Brittany Magin (Ian), and Michael Dietz; 11 great-grandchildren, and another great-grandson and a great- great-granddaughter due in November; and many nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Orval Brack and Dale Brack; a sister and brother in law, Norma and Fred Erb; grandson, T.J. Dietz; and two great-grandsons, Kellan Soukup and Gabriel Campbell.Per Lila’s wishes, there will be no ceremony as cremation has taken place. Memorials have been designated to Kans for Kids or Kindred Hospice, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Lila J. (Schamaun) Bowman

Harold Rudolph Stegman, 85, Loretto, Kansas, passed away Friday, June 18, 2021, at Wheatland Nursing Center, Russell, Kansas.

Harold was born April 25, 1936, on the family farm near Loretto, Kansas, the son of Andrew J. and Lucy E. (Sulzman) Stegman.&nbsp; He was a lifelong resident of Rush County, Kansas.&nbsp; He was a 1954 graduate of Victoria High School, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; Born and raised on the family farm, the love of the farm was instilled deep within Harold who was a lifetime farmer.&nbsp;

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Loretto, Kansas; and St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Liebenthal, Kansas.

Harold was a self-sacrificing individual taking care of his parents and older brother during their lives.

Survivors include one brother, LeRoy Stegman (Bernadette), Grand Island, Nebraska; two sisters, Evelyn Alexander, Wichita, Kansas, and Bernice Wiewel, Russell, Kansas; and numerous nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and five brothers, Gerald Stegman, Raymond Stegman, Melvin Stegman, Donald Stegman, and Everett “Ed” Stegman.

Visitation will be Friday, June 25, 2021, from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.&nbsp; A vigil service and rosary will be at 7:00 P.M.&nbsp;

Church visitation will be Saturday, June 26, 2021, from 9:00 A.M. to 9:50 A.M. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Liebenthal, Kansas.

Funeral service will be Saturday, June 26, 2021, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Liebenthal, Kansas, with Father Anselm Eke officiating.&nbsp; Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Loretto, Kansas.

Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Liebenthal, Kansas, or St. Mary’s Shrine Inc., Loretto, Kansas.

Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624374653702.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Harold Rudolph Stegman, 85, Loretto, Kansas, passed away Friday, June 18, 2021, at Wheatland Nursing Center, Russell, Kansas.Harold was born April 25, 1936, on the family farm near Loretto, Kansas, the son of Andrew J. and Lucy E. (Sulzman) Stegman.&nbsp; He was a lifelong resident of Rush County, Kansas.&nbsp; He was a 1954 graduate of Victoria High School, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; Born and raised on the family farm, the love of the farm was instilled deep within Harold who was a lifetime farmer.&nbsp;He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Loretto, Kansas; and St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Liebenthal, Kansas.Harold was a self-sacrificing individual taking care of his parents and older brother during their lives.Survivors include one brother, LeRoy Stegman (Bernadette), Grand Island, Nebraska; two sisters, Evelyn Alexander, Wichita, Kansas, and Bernice Wiewel, Russell, Kansas; and numerous nephews and nieces.He was preceded in death by his parents; and five brothers, Gerald Stegman, Raymond Stegman, Melvin Stegman, Donald Stegman, and Everett “Ed” Stegman.Visitation will be Friday, June 25, 2021, from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.&nbsp; A vigil service and rosary will be at 7:00 P.M.&nbsp;Church visitation will be Saturday, June 26, 2021, from 9:00 A.M. to 9:50 A.M. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Liebenthal, Kansas.Funeral service will be Saturday, June 26, 2021, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Liebenthal, Kansas, with Father Anselm Eke officiating.&nbsp; Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Loretto, Kansas.Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Liebenthal, Kansas, or St. Mary’s Shrine Inc., Loretto, Kansas.Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.

Harold Rudolph Stegman

Clara Mae Feldman, 100, passed away June 18, 2021, at Medicalodges of Great Bend. She was born February 27, 1921 at Offerle, to William &amp; Anna (Dornburg) Kurth. She married Harold Herman Feldman July 2, 1943, at Ozark, Alabama. He died July 3, 2019.

A Great Bend resident since 1944, Clara was a teacher for a few years right out of college. She then worked as an administrative assistant for Lee Turner before being a billing clerk for Kansas Power &amp; Light. Harold and Clara then co-owned and operated C&amp;S Well Service. Clara was a member of First United Methodist Church. She enjoyed knitting and crochet. She enjoyed spending time with her family but especially loved spending time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include a daughter, Deanna Thomas and husband Tom of Winfield; a daughter-in-law, Jackye Feldman; six grandchildren, Misty Rockenfield, Duane Feldman, Debbie Johnson, Troy Thomas, Todd Feldman, and Kathy Berglind; eleven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Harold Feldman; a son, Richard Feldman; three brothers; six sisters; and two grandchildren, Tim Feldman and Susan Quint.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., Sunday, June 20, 2021 at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 21, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Reverend Morita Truman presiding. Interment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to First United Methodist Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624117688532.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dateline: Great Bend, KansasClara Mae Feldman, 100, passed away June 18, 2021, at Medicalodges of Great Bend. She was born February 27, 1921 at Offerle, to William &amp; Anna (Dornburg) Kurth. She married Harold Herman Feldman July 2, 1943, at Ozark, Alabama. He died July 3, 2019.A Great Bend resident since 1944, Clara was a teacher for a few years right out of college. She then worked as an administrative assistant for Lee Turner before being a billing clerk for Kansas Power &amp; Light. Harold and Clara then co-owned and operated C&amp;S Well Service. Clara was a member of First United Methodist Church. She enjoyed knitting and crochet. She enjoyed spending time with her family but especially loved spending time with her grandchildren.Survivors include a daughter, Deanna Thomas and husband Tom of Winfield; a daughter-in-law, Jackye Feldman; six grandchildren, Misty Rockenfield, Duane Feldman, Debbie Johnson, Troy Thomas, Todd Feldman, and Kathy Berglind; eleven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Harold Feldman; a son, Richard Feldman; three brothers; six sisters; and two grandchildren, Tim Feldman and Susan Quint.Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., Sunday, June 20, 2021 at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 21, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Reverend Morita Truman presiding. Interment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to First United Methodist Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Clara Mae Feldman

Belpre- Nadine Suzette Unzicker was born on September 21, 1957 in Larned, KS. to Earl and Florine Unzicker. Nadine was proceeded in death by her parents and one brother Jerry.

Nadine grew up in Belpre, KS. and graduated from Macksville High School in 1976. Nadine then attended Hutchinson Community Junior College and received an Associate in Arts Degree in May of 1978. She then went to Arizona and attended Arizona State University and received the degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts in December of 1990. Nadine also attended Mesa Community College and received her Associate of Applied Science degree in Interior Design in 1999

After moving to Arizona, Nadine spent much of her time as a caretaker of her parents as their health failed.

Nadine was a talented artist. The artwork on the family Christmas card was always hers. Her hobbies included her artwork, photography and old movies. She and Jerry Loved to travel and visit family and friends. Nadine’s favorite place to visit was Disneyland. She and Jerry went every year.

Nadine Suzette Unzicker passed away on June 2, 2021. She will be missed by those who remember her humor, her love for her family and her friends.

Memorial graveside service will be 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 25, 2021 at Belpre Cemetery, Belpre with Pastor Melissa Naylor presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned.

Memorials may be given to Trousdale United Methodist Church or Lewis United Methodist Church in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622315990146.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Belpre- Nadine Suzette Unzicker was born on September 21, 1957 in Larned, KS. to Earl and Florine Unzicker. Nadine was proceeded in death by her parents and one brother Jerry.Nadine grew up in Belpre, KS. and graduated from Macksville High School in 1976. Nadine then attended Hutchinson Community Junior College and received an Associate in Arts Degree in May of 1978. She then went to Arizona and attended Arizona State University and received the degree of Bachelor of Fine Arts in December of 1990. Nadine also attended Mesa Community College and received her Associate of Applied Science degree in Interior Design in 1999After moving to Arizona, Nadine spent much of her time as a caretaker of her parents as their health failed.Nadine was a talented artist. The artwork on the family Christmas card was always hers. Her hobbies included her artwork, photography and old movies. She and Jerry Loved to travel and visit family and friends. Nadine’s favorite place to visit was Disneyland. She and Jerry went every year.Nadine Suzette Unzicker passed away on June 2, 2021. She will be missed by those who remember her humor, her love for her family and her friends.Memorial graveside service will be 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 25, 2021 at Belpre Cemetery, Belpre with Pastor Melissa Naylor presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned.Memorials may be given to Trousdale United Methodist Church or Lewis United Methodist Church in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Nadine Suzette Unzicker

Belpre - Jerry Leroy Unzicker, was born on July 20, 1946 in Great Bend, KS to Earl and Florine Unzicker. He was proceeded in death by his parents and was survived by one sister Nadine.

Jerry grew up in Belpre, Kansas and graduated from high school in 1964. He attended Kansas State University and graduated in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. Upon graduation, Jerry served in the United States Air Force at Luke AFB in Arizona as a Captain, Division Computer Systems Programming Officer, and was Honorably Discharged.

After leaving the Air Force Jerry attended Arizona State University and received the degree of Master of Science in Engineering in 1976.

Jerry went to work for Motorola Semiconductor Products Sector in Phoenix, AZ in 1973 as a Software Engineer and worked for them until 1999. He then went to work for On Semiconductor in Phoenix, AZ until 2001.

Jerry’s hobbies were photography, music and most sports. He and Nadine loved to travel back to Kansas to see family and friends. Jerry and Nadine liked to visit the National Parks and Historic sites. But their favorite place to visit was Disneyland. They tried to go every year and they documented their trips with lots of photos.

Jerry Leroy Unzicker passed away on May 23, 2021 and is missed by those who remember his humor, his willingness to help and the love he had for his family.

Graveside service will be 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 25, 2021 at Belpre Cemetery, Belpre with Pastor Melissa Naylor presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593568860719.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Belpre - Jerry Leroy Unzicker, was born on July 20, 1946 in Great Bend, KS to Earl and Florine Unzicker. He was proceeded in death by his parents and was survived by one sister Nadine.Jerry grew up in Belpre, Kansas and graduated from high school in 1964. He attended Kansas State University and graduated in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. Upon graduation, Jerry served in the United States Air Force at Luke AFB in Arizona as a Captain, Division Computer Systems Programming Officer, and was Honorably Discharged.After leaving the Air Force Jerry attended Arizona State University and received the degree of Master of Science in Engineering in 1976.Jerry went to work for Motorola Semiconductor Products Sector in Phoenix, AZ in 1973 as a Software Engineer and worked for them until 1999. He then went to work for On Semiconductor in Phoenix, AZ until 2001.Jerry’s hobbies were photography, music and most sports. He and Nadine loved to travel back to Kansas to see family and friends. Jerry and Nadine liked to visit the National Parks and Historic sites. But their favorite place to visit was Disneyland. They tried to go every year and they documented their trips with lots of photos.Jerry Leroy Unzicker passed away on May 23, 2021 and is missed by those who remember his humor, his willingness to help and the love he had for his family.Graveside service will be 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 25, 2021 at Belpre Cemetery, Belpre with Pastor Melissa Naylor presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned.Memorials may be given to Trousdale United Methodist Church or Lewis United Methodist Church in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Jerry Leroy Unzicker

Larry Degenhardt, 77, left this Earth to join his heavenly Father on June 15, 2021, at Via Christi St. Teresa, Wichita. He was born April 30, 1944 at Hays, to Walter &amp; Bernita (Wasinger) Degenhardt. He married Shirley Schwartz July 9, 1966, at Great Bend.

Larry was a Great Bend resident for most of his life. He farmed and worked for Rice Engineering. In 1996, he formed D&amp;D Machine, which he owned and operated, while continuing to farm. He was a veteran of the United States Navy, having served during the Vietnam War. Larry’s heart lit up when he spent time with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his fur baby Willow. Most of all he was a loving husband and friend to all who knew him. He was a devout Christian and member of First Church of God, serving and loving his Lord.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley Degenhardt of the home; his mother, Bernita Degenhardt of Great Bend; his daughter, Tiffany Serna of Great Bend; his brothers, Louis Degenhardt and Kim and Richard Degenhardt, all of Great Bend, Lloyd Degenhardt and wife Leeta of Larned, and Leon Degenhardt and wife Paula of Okla.; his sister, Kathy Foster and husband Brett of Rose Hill; three grandchildren, Alex Serna and Sienna Serna, both of Great Bend, and Destiny Loera and husband Jaime of Washington State; and five great-grandchildren, Mila VanRiper of Great Bend, Izen Loera and Zyus Loera of Washington State, Lilah Serna and Luna Serna, both of Great Bend. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Degenhardt.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., Sunday, June 20, 2021 at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 21, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Reverend Tom Swain presiding. Interment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery, with Military Rites conducted by the United States Navy. Memorials have been designated to First Church of God, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623872675036.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dateline: Great Bend, KansasLarry Degenhardt, 77, left this Earth to join his heavenly Father on June 15, 2021, at Via Christi St. Teresa, Wichita. He was born April 30, 1944 at Hays, to Walter &amp; Bernita (Wasinger) Degenhardt. He married Shirley Schwartz July 9, 1966, at Great Bend.Larry was a Great Bend resident for most of his life. He farmed and worked for Rice Engineering. In 1996, he formed D&amp;D Machine, which he owned and operated, while continuing to farm. He was a veteran of the United States Navy, having served during the Vietnam War. Larry’s heart lit up when he spent time with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his fur baby Willow. Most of all he was a loving husband and friend to all who knew him. He was a devout Christian and member of First Church of God, serving and loving his Lord.Survivors include his wife, Shirley Degenhardt of the home; his mother, Bernita Degenhardt of Great Bend; his daughter, Tiffany Serna of Great Bend; his brothers, Louis Degenhardt and Kim and Richard Degenhardt, all of Great Bend, Lloyd Degenhardt and wife Leeta of Larned, and Leon Degenhardt and wife Paula of Okla.; his sister, Kathy Foster and husband Brett of Rose Hill; three grandchildren, Alex Serna and Sienna Serna, both of Great Bend, and Destiny Loera and husband Jaime of Washington State; and five great-grandchildren, Mila VanRiper of Great Bend, Izen Loera and Zyus Loera of Washington State, Lilah Serna and Luna Serna, both of Great Bend. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Degenhardt.Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., Sunday, June 20, 2021 at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 21, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Reverend Tom Swain presiding. Interment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery, with Military Rites conducted by the United States Navy. Memorials have been designated to First Church of God, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Larry Degenhardt

Larned – Donna L. Hanken, 79, passed away June 15, 2021 at Diversicare of Larned.

She was born May 9, 1942 in Great Bend to William and Nora Wing Mog.

A lifetime area resident, she was a food service director for both USD 495 and Larned State Hospital. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Larned, where she was a Deacon and member of the Presbyterian Women. She was also a member of Fort Larned Good Sam’s Club, Pawnee County Humane Society, and she enjoyed bowling, softball, tennis, card clubs, friends, and her dogs, Lucky and Gizmo. She volunteered as a 4-H leader, the Red Cross, and with the election board.

On September 31, 1961 she married Erwin Dean Hanken at Larned; he survives.

Other survivors include: two daughters, Missy (Brad) Schmidt, Harrisonville, Missouri, Rhonda (Steve) Molde, Wichita; a sister, Sue Seeman, Larned; five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 19, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with Pastor Bill Stapleton presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, June 18, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary. Cremation will follow the service and inurnment will be in Larned Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials may be given to the First Presbyterian Church, Larned, in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623872348197.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Larned – Donna L. Hanken, 79, passed away June 15, 2021 at Diversicare of Larned.She was born May 9, 1942 in Great Bend to William and Nora Wing Mog.A lifetime area resident, she was a food service director for both USD 495 and Larned State Hospital. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Larned, where she was a Deacon and member of the Presbyterian Women. She was also a member of Fort Larned Good Sam’s Club, Pawnee County Humane Society, and she enjoyed bowling, softball, tennis, card clubs, friends, and her dogs, Lucky and Gizmo. She volunteered as a 4-H leader, the Red Cross, and with the election board.On September 31, 1961 she married Erwin Dean Hanken at Larned; he survives.Other survivors include: two daughters, Missy (Brad) Schmidt, Harrisonville, Missouri, Rhonda (Steve) Molde, Wichita; a sister, Sue Seeman, Larned; five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents.Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 19, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with Pastor Bill Stapleton presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, June 18, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary. Cremation will follow the service and inurnment will be in Larned Cemetery at a later date.Memorials may be given to the First Presbyterian Church, Larned, in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Donna L. Hanken

Charles Edward “Ed” Arnold died April 10, 2021 at Hillside Village in DeSoto, Kansas. He was born May 22, 1931 in Garfield, the son of Charles and Mary (Gum) Arnold. He grew up in Pawnee County and attended Rozel Schools, graduating in 1949. On February 12, 1950, he married Eloyce Franz in Rozel, Kansas.

He was a farmer-rancher in Pawnee County, moving to Dodge City in 1980 where he worked as a cattle-feeder/order buyer until 2017 when he moved to Overland Park, Kansas. He was a member of the First Christian Church of Dodge City and the Dodge City County Club.

Survivors include three sons: William and wife Diane of Overland Park, Kansas; James and wife Linda of Holdrege, Nebraska; and Philip J and wife Jacqueline of Overland Park; seven grandchildren (Tamra Pierce, Christopher Arnold, Elizabeth Hanson, Aaron Arnold, Alex, Jessica and Emery Arnold) and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother, Loren Arnold and one sister, Nan Gardiner.

Burial will be in Larned Cemetery on June 19 at 2 pm. Memorials are suggested to First Christian Church of Dodge City or the donor’s choice, in care of Beckwith Funeral Home, Larned, Kansas. E-condolences may be given at www.beckwithmortuary.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623689275484.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Charles Edward “Ed” Arnold died April 10, 2021 at Hillside Village in DeSoto, Kansas. He was born May 22, 1931 in Garfield, the son of Charles and Mary (Gum) Arnold. He grew up in Pawnee County and attended Rozel Schools, graduating in 1949. On February 12, 1950, he married Eloyce Franz in Rozel, Kansas.He was a farmer-rancher in Pawnee County, moving to Dodge City in 1980 where he worked as a cattle-feeder/order buyer until 2017 when he moved to Overland Park, Kansas. He was a member of the First Christian Church of Dodge City and the Dodge City County Club.Survivors include three sons: William and wife Diane of Overland Park, Kansas; James and wife Linda of Holdrege, Nebraska; and Philip J and wife Jacqueline of Overland Park; seven grandchildren (Tamra Pierce, Christopher Arnold, Elizabeth Hanson, Aaron Arnold, Alex, Jessica and Emery Arnold) and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother, Loren Arnold and one sister, Nan Gardiner.Burial will be in Larned Cemetery on June 19 at 2 pm. Memorials are suggested to First Christian Church of Dodge City or the donor’s choice, in care of Beckwith Funeral Home, Larned, Kansas. E-condolences may be given at www.beckwithmortuary.com

Charles Edward “Ed” Arnold

Betty Hood, 65, passed away June 11, 2021, at the University Of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, Great Bend, following a short battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born November 11, 1955, in Larned, to Raymond and Margaret (Wagaman) Swartz. She married Jeff Hood in 1978 and was later separated in 2016.

Betty, a long-time resident of Great Bend, devoted her life to caring for others, working as a CNA for several years and an LPN for twenty years. She lived a full life, especially enjoying animals, flower gardening, and above all, her family. Betty cherished the friendships she developed with the residents of Great Bend Health and Rehabilitation during her employment there, and truly missed them.

Survivors include five sons, Josh Hood (Maudie) of Wichita, Jared Hood of Great Bend, Joseph Hood of Great Bend, Jeffrey Hood, Jr. of Great Bend, and Jacob Hood (Casey) of Russell; three daughters, Jenny Hood (Andre) of Orlando, Julie Becker (Shane) of Great Bend, and Jaleesa Hood of Great Bend; three brothers, JR Swartz of Stafford, Ronald Swartz (Sarah) of the Philippines, Robert Swartz of San Diego, one sister, Carolyn Hunt of Larned; and 18 grandchildren, Kylie Hood, Ryder Hood, Logan Welcher, Anthony Day, Madison Hood, Journey Hood, Evan Hood, Zoey Hood, Emma Hood, Natalie Siqueira, Nicholas Siqueira, Misha Siqueira, Hailey Tammen, Riley Tammen, Kinzlie Becker, Khloe Becker, Landon Becker, and Hunter Becker. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Dick Swartz and Bill Swartz; and one sister, Virginia Shearrer.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 16, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Rev. Dick Ogle presiding. Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery North, Great Bend. Visitation will be from Noon to 9:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at Bryant Funeral Home, with the family receiving friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Memorials may be given to the Betty Hood Memorial Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623675143945.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dateline: Great Bend, KansasBetty Hood, 65, passed away June 11, 2021, at the University Of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, Great Bend, following a short battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born November 11, 1955, in Larned, to Raymond and Margaret (Wagaman) Swartz. She married Jeff Hood in 1978 and was later separated in 2016.Betty, a long-time resident of Great Bend, devoted her life to caring for others, working as a CNA for several years and an LPN for twenty years. She lived a full life, especially enjoying animals, flower gardening, and above all, her family. Betty cherished the friendships she developed with the residents of Great Bend Health and Rehabilitation during her employment there, and truly missed them.Survivors include five sons, Josh Hood (Maudie) of Wichita, Jared Hood of Great Bend, Joseph Hood of Great Bend, Jeffrey Hood, Jr. of Great Bend, and Jacob Hood (Casey) of Russell; three daughters, Jenny Hood (Andre) of Orlando, Julie Becker (Shane) of Great Bend, and Jaleesa Hood of Great Bend; three brothers, JR Swartz of Stafford, Ronald Swartz (Sarah) of the Philippines, Robert Swartz of San Diego, one sister, Carolyn Hunt of Larned; and 18 grandchildren, Kylie Hood, Ryder Hood, Logan Welcher, Anthony Day, Madison Hood, Journey Hood, Evan Hood, Zoey Hood, Emma Hood, Natalie Siqueira, Nicholas Siqueira, Misha Siqueira, Hailey Tammen, Riley Tammen, Kinzlie Becker, Khloe Becker, Landon Becker, and Hunter Becker. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Dick Swartz and Bill Swartz; and one sister, Virginia Shearrer.Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 16, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Rev. Dick Ogle presiding. Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery North, Great Bend. Visitation will be from Noon to 9:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at Bryant Funeral Home, with the family receiving friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Memorials may be given to the Betty Hood Memorial Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Betty Hood

Great Bend -&nbsp;Julia M. (Fish) Herren, 93, left this world on June 12, 2021. She was born October 2, 1927 at Wasola, MO. the daughter of John W. Fish Sr. and Edith (Stewart) Fish. She moved with her family to Great Bend in 1937, graduating from Great Bend High School in 1946. She married Louis F Herren on November 22, 1946.

Julia was active in Girl’s Scouts and helped organize Camp Fire Girls. She was on the board of directors and an active member earning the rare Arthur Gulick Award. She served as a Democratic Barton County chairman and secretary of the big first district. Julia also belonged to Petal Pushers Garden Club and Riverside HDU unit and also the Etudion Club.

Julia was a devoted and beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Her family was her most precious gift. She will be remembered as a person of great faith which she based her life on. She was a woman who gave far more than she ever took.

Survivors include two daughters Carol A Selle and husband Dwight and Carla L. Ziegler and husband James; three granddaughters, Sheri D (Alan) Wornkey , Mitzi M. (Michael J) Hanes and Terra A (Scott) Miller; four great-grandsons Robi and Kalib Wilson, Michael Ringo and Alex Cook; one great-granddaughter Kholi Mae Miller; sister Evelyn (Al) Whitmire of Bushton. She was preceded in death by her husband Louis, son Louis F. Herren Jr. two sisters Gwen Harmon and LaVern Hendricks, brothers Charles, Ervan, and John.

Julia just wanted people to remember her for the person she was. By her request, there will be no services or visitation as cremation has taken place.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623674386114.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend -&nbsp;Julia M. (Fish) Herren, 93, left this world on June 12, 2021. She was born October 2, 1927 at Wasola, MO. the daughter of John W. Fish Sr. and Edith (Stewart) Fish. She moved with her family to Great Bend in 1937, graduating from Great Bend High School in 1946. She married Louis F Herren on November 22, 1946.Julia was active in Girl’s Scouts and helped organize Camp Fire Girls. She was on the board of directors and an active member earning the rare Arthur Gulick Award. She served as a Democratic Barton County chairman and secretary of the big first district. Julia also belonged to Petal Pushers Garden Club and Riverside HDU unit and also the Etudion Club.Julia was a devoted and beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Her family was her most precious gift. She will be remembered as a person of great faith which she based her life on. She was a woman who gave far more than she ever took.Survivors include two daughters Carol A Selle and husband Dwight and Carla L. Ziegler and husband James; three granddaughters, Sheri D (Alan) Wornkey , Mitzi M. (Michael J) Hanes and Terra A (Scott) Miller; four great-grandsons Robi and Kalib Wilson, Michael Ringo and Alex Cook; one great-granddaughter Kholi Mae Miller; sister Evelyn (Al) Whitmire of Bushton. She was preceded in death by her husband Louis, son Louis F. Herren Jr. two sisters Gwen Harmon and LaVern Hendricks, brothers Charles, Ervan, and John.Julia just wanted people to remember her for the person she was. By her request, there will be no services or visitation as cremation has taken place.Memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Julia M. (Fish) Herren

Larned – Sharon L. Fleske passed away June 5, 2021 at Hays Medical Center, Hays.

She was born January 27, 1950, on her dad’s birthday, in Pratt, Kansas to Harold Donald and Myrtillia Olive (Colclazier) Horner. A longtime area resident, she graduated from Greensburg High School in 1968 and then attended Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri before transferring to Haviland Bible College. She worked many years at Larned State Hospital and also enjoyed serving with girls’ ministries in the Assemblies of God churches in Great Bend and Larned, Kansas.

Sharon married Larry Lee Fleske on January 14, 1989, on her mother’s birthday. Larry preceded her in death on February 20, 2015.

Survivors include: daughter, Amanda Frost, Great Bend; two beloved pets, Skippy and Grayson; two brothers, Donald (Diana) Horner, Mulvane, Kansas, Robert (Debbie) Horner, Wichita, Kansas; three sisters, Rhonda Staats, Larned, Kansas, Dora (Larri) Gish, Aberdeen, Washington, Becky (Jeff) Wells, Americus, Kansas; many nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; both parents; two sisters Kay Davis and Ann Callis; a niece, Toni Davis Ricke; and three great-nieces, Taija Ricke, Jaiden Good, and Katelynne Bilyeu.

Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, June 11, 2021 at Encounter Church, Great Bend, with Pastor Dwight Dozier and Pastor Daryl Riffel presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 10, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with family present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in Larned Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to Donate Life Kansas or Encounter Church to support missions, in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623249269477.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Larned – Sharon L. Fleske passed away June 5, 2021 at Hays Medical Center, Hays.She was born January 27, 1950, on her dad’s birthday, in Pratt, Kansas to Harold Donald and Myrtillia Olive (Colclazier) Horner. A longtime area resident, she graduated from Greensburg High School in 1968 and then attended Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri before transferring to Haviland Bible College. She worked many years at Larned State Hospital and also enjoyed serving with girls’ ministries in the Assemblies of God churches in Great Bend and Larned, Kansas.Sharon married Larry Lee Fleske on January 14, 1989, on her mother’s birthday. Larry preceded her in death on February 20, 2015.Survivors include: daughter, Amanda Frost, Great Bend; two beloved pets, Skippy and Grayson; two brothers, Donald (Diana) Horner, Mulvane, Kansas, Robert (Debbie) Horner, Wichita, Kansas; three sisters, Rhonda Staats, Larned, Kansas, Dora (Larri) Gish, Aberdeen, Washington, Becky (Jeff) Wells, Americus, Kansas; many nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and great-nephews.She was preceded in death by her husband; both parents; two sisters Kay Davis and Ann Callis; a niece, Toni Davis Ricke; and three great-nieces, Taija Ricke, Jaiden Good, and Katelynne Bilyeu.Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, June 11, 2021 at Encounter Church, Great Bend, with Pastor Dwight Dozier and Pastor Daryl Riffel presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, June 10, 2021 at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with family present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in Larned Cemetery.Memorials may be given to Donate Life Kansas or Encounter Church to support missions, in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Sharon L. Fleske

Billy Joe “Bill” Mawhiney, 92, died June 5, 2021, at Country Place Senior Living, Hoisington.&nbsp; &nbsp;Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., July 2nd, 2021, at First United Methodist Church, Hoisington. A full obituary will be published at a later date. &nbsp;Arrangements by Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, Hoisington.

Dateline: HoisingtonBilly Joe “Bill” Mawhiney, 92, died June 5, 2021, at Country Place Senior Living, Hoisington.&nbsp; &nbsp;Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., July 2nd, 2021, at First United Methodist Church, Hoisington. A full obituary will be published at a later date. &nbsp;Arrangements by Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, Hoisington.

Larned – Shannon Louise Milch, 31, passed away June 5, 2021, in Hays, KS.

She was born November 18, 1989, in Arlington, TX, the daughter of Kevin and Lori Josefiak Milch. A lifetime area resident, she was a service representative for AnswerNet where she wasn’t just a Lead Agent, she was a leader. She helped on special projects for the client and the team. She helped agents in chats, helped make quizzes, she was brilliant and active, helpful and always ready to make someone smile. Even when she had bad days, she cared more about her friends than herself.

She was a member of the Rozel United Methodist Church, Daughters of the American Revolution, and South Central Stock Horse Association. She was a graduate of Friends University, Wichita. She was a loving dog mom to Otto, Cash, Lily, River and Oakley.

Survivors include: parents, Kevin and Lori Milch, Larned; three sisters, Amanda (Cory) Johnson, Rozel, Hayley (Tyler) Langton, Larned, Megan Milch, Salina; niece and nephews, Jax, Averi, Brody, Colby and Lucas; grandmothers, Joan Josefiak, Larned and Vivian Milch, Missoula, Montana.

She was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Dale Josefiak and William Milch, and her dog, Otto.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, June 10, 2021, at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with Pastor Berniece Ludlum presiding. Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 9, 2021, with family present from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Beckwith Mortuary. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned.

Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society, Pawnee County 4-H Foundation, or Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation in care of Beckwith Mortuary, Box 477 Larned, KS 67550. Condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623248464382.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Larned – Shannon Louise Milch, 31, passed away June 5, 2021, in Hays, KS.She was born November 18, 1989, in Arlington, TX, the daughter of Kevin and Lori Josefiak Milch. A lifetime area resident, she was a service representative for AnswerNet where she wasn’t just a Lead Agent, she was a leader. She helped on special projects for the client and the team. She helped agents in chats, helped make quizzes, she was brilliant and active, helpful and always ready to make someone smile. Even when she had bad days, she cared more about her friends than herself.She was a member of the Rozel United Methodist Church, Daughters of the American Revolution, and South Central Stock Horse Association. She was a graduate of Friends University, Wichita. She was a loving dog mom to Otto, Cash, Lily, River and Oakley.Survivors include: parents, Kevin and Lori Milch, Larned; three sisters, Amanda (Cory) Johnson, Rozel, Hayley (Tyler) Langton, Larned, Megan Milch, Salina; niece and nephews, Jax, Averi, Brody, Colby and Lucas; grandmothers, Joan Josefiak, Larned and Vivian Milch, Missoula, Montana.She was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Dale Josefiak and William Milch, and her dog, Otto.Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, June 10, 2021, at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with Pastor Berniece Ludlum presiding. Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 9, 2021, with family present from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Beckwith Mortuary. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned.Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society, Pawnee County 4-H Foundation, or Pawnee Valley Community Hospital Foundation in care of Beckwith Mortuary, Box 477 Larned, KS 67550. Condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Shannon Louise Milch

Bobbie Jo Elson, 51, passed away Friday, June 4, 2021, at Via Christ St Francis, Wichita. She was born January 27, 1970, in Dodge City the daughter of Richard and Hurmely (Peters) Elson.

She has been a resident of Great Bend since 1982 coming from Jetmore. She attended River of Life Church. Bobbie worked in child care for over 20 years. She enjoyed crafts, puzzles and garage sales, she especially loved working with children.

Survivors include a brother, Richard Elson and wife Nina Mae of Great Bend; a sister, Mary Anderson and husband Ronald of North Glen, Co.; three nieces and seven nephews; many great-nieces and nephews; 1 great great niece, 1 great great nephew and one on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Nancy Pennington and Betty Barnett; and a nephew, Preston Barnett.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday June 12, 2021, at River of Life Church, 1219 Main St., Great Bend, with Reverend David LeRoy officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to the National Kidney Foundation or Kans for Kids, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623247913214.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dateline: Great Bend, KansasBobbie Jo Elson, 51, passed away Friday, June 4, 2021, at Via Christ St Francis, Wichita. She was born January 27, 1970, in Dodge City the daughter of Richard and Hurmely (Peters) Elson.She has been a resident of Great Bend since 1982 coming from Jetmore. She attended River of Life Church. Bobbie worked in child care for over 20 years. She enjoyed crafts, puzzles and garage sales, she especially loved working with children.Survivors include a brother, Richard Elson and wife Nina Mae of Great Bend; a sister, Mary Anderson and husband Ronald of North Glen, Co.; three nieces and seven nephews; many great-nieces and nephews; 1 great great niece, 1 great great nephew and one on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Nancy Pennington and Betty Barnett; and a nephew, Preston Barnett.There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday June 12, 2021, at River of Life Church, 1219 Main St., Great Bend, with Reverend David LeRoy officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to the National Kidney Foundation or Kans for Kids, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Bobbie Jo Elson

Rozel&nbsp;&nbsp;- Juanita Mae Gillaspie, 88, went to be with the Lord October 28, 2020, at Mennonite Friendship Communities, in South Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Memorial Service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 12th&nbsp;at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Bill Stapleton presiding.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inurnment will follow in the Rozel Cemetery, Rozel, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;The family suggests memorials be given to the City of Rozel for Playground Equipment or the Rozel Community Center Fund both in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550. Online condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623094840021.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Rozel&nbsp;&nbsp;- Juanita Mae Gillaspie, 88, went to be with the Lord October 28, 2020, at Mennonite Friendship Communities, in South Hutchinson.&nbsp;Memorial Service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 12th&nbsp;at Beckwith Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Bill Stapleton presiding.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inurnment will follow in the Rozel Cemetery, Rozel, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;The family suggests memorials be given to the City of Rozel for Playground Equipment or the Rozel Community Center Fund both in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550. Online condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com

Juanita Mae Gillaspie

Kenneth LeRoy “Kenny” McCormick, 76, Hays, died Saturday, June 5, 2021, at HaysMed.

He was born August 5, 1944, in Wichita, 
Kansas, the third son of John P. and Armella (Leiker) McCormick.&nbsp; He 
graduated from Great Bend High School.&nbsp; On November 28, 1964, he was 
united in marriage to his high school girlfriend, Gloria Ann Scheck.&nbsp; 
She preceded him in death on November 15, 2015, after 51 years of 
marriage.&nbsp; Kenny managed a Phillips 66 station in Emporia, worked for 
his dad in construction, and for 30 years worked for Schult Homes in 
Plainville, retiring in 1998.&nbsp; Kenny and Gloria then moved to Hays and 
for a little more than three years Kenny worked part-time for the City 
of Hays.&nbsp; He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 
the St. Mary’s Third Degree Knights of Columbus Council #6984, and the 
Bishop Cunningham Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus.&nbsp; He was a 
jack-of-all-trades and handyman who would lend a helping hand when 
friends and family needed home maintenance and repairs.&nbsp; Kenny enjoyed 
woodworking, building, whittling, and tinkering with many projects.

Survivors include his son: Craig 
McCormick and wife Lisa of Wilmington, NC, three daughters:&nbsp; Candy Jones
 and Michelle Kirkpatrick of Plainville, and Dawn McCormick of Hays, a 
sister-in-law: Phyllis McCormick of Great Bend, five grandchildren: Cody
 Jones, Kyle Jones (Christy), Brennon Kirkpatrick (Ashley), Skyler 
McCormick, and Ryder McCormick, two great grandchildren: Lincoln and 
Colton Stipe, and two step-grandchildren: Lilianna and Brianna Griffith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Gloria, and three brothers: Larry, Jerry, and DeWayne McCormick.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 
10:00 am on Friday, June 11, 2021 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic 
Church, with Fr. Nick Parker officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in St. 
Joseph Cemetery. &nbsp;Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Thursday
 and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel 
Funeral Home.&nbsp; The Bishop Cunningham Knights of Columbus will stand 
honor guard from 5:30 until 6:30, a vigil service will be at 6:30, 
followed by a combined third and fourth degree Knights of Columbus 
rosary, all on Thursday at the funeral home.&nbsp; 

Memorials are suggested to
 the St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus Council #6984.&nbsp; Condolences and 
memories of Kenny may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com&nbsp;
 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623071237869.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kenneth LeRoy “Kenny” McCormick, 76, Hays, died Saturday, June 5, 2021, at HaysMed.He was born August 5, 1944, in Wichita, 
Kansas, the third son of John P. and Armella (Leiker) McCormick.&nbsp; He 
graduated from Great Bend High School.&nbsp; On November 28, 1964, he was 
united in marriage to his high school girlfriend, Gloria Ann Scheck.&nbsp; 
She preceded him in death on November 15, 2015, after 51 years of 
marriage.&nbsp; Kenny managed a Phillips 66 station in Emporia, worked for 
his dad in construction, and for 30 years worked for Schult Homes in 
Plainville, retiring in 1998.&nbsp; Kenny and Gloria then moved to Hays and 
for a little more than three years Kenny worked part-time for the City 
of Hays.&nbsp; He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 
the St. Mary’s Third Degree Knights of Columbus Council #6984, and the 
Bishop Cunningham Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus.&nbsp; He was a 
jack-of-all-trades and handyman who would lend a helping hand when 
friends and family needed home maintenance and repairs.&nbsp; Kenny enjoyed 
woodworking, building, whittling, and tinkering with many projects.Survivors include his son: Craig 
McCormick and wife Lisa of Wilmington, NC, three daughters:&nbsp; Candy Jones
 and Michelle Kirkpatrick of Plainville, and Dawn McCormick of Hays, a 
sister-in-law: Phyllis McCormick of Great Bend, five grandchildren: Cody
 Jones, Kyle Jones (Christy), Brennon Kirkpatrick (Ashley), Skyler 
McCormick, and Ryder McCormick, two great grandchildren: Lincoln and 
Colton Stipe, and two step-grandchildren: Lilianna and Brianna Griffith.He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Gloria, and three brothers: Larry, Jerry, and DeWayne McCormick.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 
10:00 am on Friday, June 11, 2021 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic 
Church, with Fr. Nick Parker officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in St. 
Joseph Cemetery. &nbsp;Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Thursday
 and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Friday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel 
Funeral Home.&nbsp; The Bishop Cunningham Knights of Columbus will stand 
honor guard from 5:30 until 6:30, a vigil service will be at 6:30, 
followed by a combined third and fourth degree Knights of Columbus 
rosary, all on Thursday at the funeral home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to
 the St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus Council #6984.&nbsp; Condolences and 
memories of Kenny may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com&nbsp;
 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kenneth LeRoy 'Kenny' McCormick

Dateline: Great Bend, Kansas

David Drew Ford, 65, passed away June 3, 2021, at&nbsp;Kinwood View Health &amp; Rehab, Salina. He was born October 13, 1955, at Clovis, New Mexico, to Burl &amp; Dorothy (Camp) Ford.&nbsp;

A Great Bend resident for most of his life, David was a handiman for Venture Corporation. He enjoyed painting and BBQ's. He loved his cats but especially loved spending time with his family and grandchildren.&nbsp;

Survivors include, his mother, Dorothy Morgan of Great Bend; a daughter, Chelsea Shanks and husband Frank of Great Bend; two brothers, Curtis Ford of Great Bend, and Kevin Ford of Ruidoso, New Mexico; a sister, Denise King and significant other Steve Fricks of Great Bend; a brother in law, Eddie King of Great Bend; three grandchildren, Fabio Chavez, Zain Shanks, and Kash Shanks; a nephew, Wayne King; and several other nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Burl Ford; and a brother, John Ford.&nbsp;

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Memorials have been designated to the&nbsp;David Ford Funeral Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Arrangements by&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryant Funeral Home&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1425 Patton Road&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;67530

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622838398475.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Dateline: Great Bend, KansasDavid Drew Ford, 65, passed away June 3, 2021, at&nbsp;Kinwood View Health &amp; Rehab, Salina. He was born October 13, 1955, at Clovis, New Mexico, to Burl &amp; Dorothy (Camp) Ford.&nbsp;A Great Bend resident for most of his life, David was a handiman for Venture Corporation. He enjoyed painting and BBQ's. He loved his cats but especially loved spending time with his family and grandchildren.&nbsp;Survivors include, his mother, Dorothy Morgan of Great Bend; a daughter, Chelsea Shanks and husband Frank of Great Bend; two brothers, Curtis Ford of Great Bend, and Kevin Ford of Ruidoso, New Mexico; a sister, Denise King and significant other Steve Fricks of Great Bend; a brother in law, Eddie King of Great Bend; three grandchildren, Fabio Chavez, Zain Shanks, and Kash Shanks; a nephew, Wayne King; and several other nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Burl Ford; and a brother, John Ford.&nbsp;There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Memorials have been designated to the&nbsp;David Ford Funeral Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Arrangements by&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryant Funeral Home&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1425 Patton Road&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;67530

David Drew Ford

Dateline:&nbsp;Great Bend, Kansas

The subject decedent, Kenneth L. Kerns, was born, or perhaps stork delivered, on the 29th&nbsp;day of December, 1943, at the Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital located in El Dorado, Butler County, Kansas.&nbsp;

He was the son, and first child, of Clarence H. Kerns and Vivian R. (Hursh) Kerns, husband and wife.&nbsp;

The father, Clarence H. Kerns, was personally present at the conception of the subject decedent, but was not personally present at the time of the birth of his son. At the time of such birth, or stork delivery, Clarence H. Kerns was on active duty in the Army Air Corps, and stationed at Grand Forks, North Dakota. He was involved in a B-29 project relating to the development of a bomb of some type, and he always considered Grand Forks, North Dakota, to be a wonderful, tropical retreat.&nbsp;

Kenneth L. Kerns grew up at El Dorado, Kansas, a community noted at the time for two active oil refineries, and in conjunction therewith, noted for pure, clean air. However, he is indebted to Skelly Oil Co. for providing refinery employment for Clarence H. Kerns.

Kenneth strongly believed that having an opportunity to grow up in a small, midwestern community during the 1950’s was a definite blessing. He was convinced that there has never been a better time to encounter the joys and hardships of youth and puberty. He strongly believed that we need to return to a political administration under the direction of one Dwight David Eisenhower, with all citizens being blessed with a 1957 Chevrolet.

Ken attended and graduated from El Dorado High School in 1961 and then attended and graduated from El Dorado Junior College, now known as Butler County Community College, in 1963. He then attended and graduated from Kansas State College at Pittsburg in 1965. He acquired a Bachelor’s Degree, the primary focus being social or political science. At such time, he intended to become a secondary level school teacher. However, he was persuaded by a very good friend to submit himself to the law school admission test, and, thereafter, decided to attend law school.&nbsp;

Ken attended and graduated from Washburn University School of Law in 1968, with a Juris Doctorate being granted.&nbsp;

He commenced the practice of law at Great Bend, Kansas during August, 1968. He continued with the practice of law from 1968 to the time of his death.&nbsp;

In view of the duration of his practice of law, one must certainly conclude that he was older than dirt at the time of his demise.&nbsp;

He married Connie M. Bell during March, 1990. This marriage has thankfully survived. He frequently expressed the belief that he had finally located a “good” woman.&nbsp;

Kenneth L. Kerns is survived by his wife, Connie, his son, Brian L. Kerns, and wife, Tamra, of Austin, Texas, his step-daughter, Rhonda Weingrad and her husband Mark (the food mooch), of Great Bend, his grandson, Landen Kerns, his granddaughter, McKenna Kerns, his step-granddaughter, Ashley McGinnis, and her husband, Sam and Baby Mac, his step-granddaughter, Autumn Weingrad, and his good friend and companion, Sherman the Cat. He is also survived by a brother, Maynard L. Kerns, of El Dorado, Kansas and a sister, Mary Gayle Spoon and husband Dean, of Leon, Kansas. He was also predeceased by his great friend, Stonewall the Cat, his fuzzy companion, Buggzer the Rabbit, and the great animal, Miss Kitty the Cat.&nbsp;

During his presence in Great Bend, Kansas, the subject decedent was a member and held various offices with the Great Bend Jaycees, and a member and officer of the state Jaycee organization. He was also a member of Elks Lodge No. 1127 for a substantial number of years, and an auxiliary member of the V.F.W. For several years, he served as the advisor to an explorer post, legal related, under the Boy Scout organization. He was also involved in instrumental and initiating Hope, Incorporated, a predecessor to organizations now existing to assist the mentally challenged. He has been a member of the Barton County Bar Association since 1968, and has served as both the president and the secretary of such organization. He has also been a member of the Kansas Bar Association since 1968.

During his presence in Great Bend, Kansas, he has been a member of the First Presbyterian Church, and is presently a member of the First Christian Church.&nbsp;

Individuals who have been associated and acquainted with Mr. Kerns will certainly attest that he always expounded progressive ideas. He honored a lifetime mandate, this being as follows: “Change is Bad”. He undoubtedly considers his present state of lifelessness to fit within the same category, that being that this “change” is bad.&nbsp;

Ken did encounter some difficulty with electronic devices as well as anything mechanical. Had he been the king of the world, he would have undoubtedly destroyed all computers, cell phones and related items. He held an extreme dislike for the electronic filing approach adopted by the court system in the State of Kansas, such feeling being amplified by the destructive force of the same, in the opinion of Mr. Kerns, to the legal profession.&nbsp;

At the time of his death, the subject decedent was extremely discouraged as to the state of the legal profession. In the opinion of Mr. Kerns, the permissive use of advertising for the legal profession basically eliminated professionalism. He strongly believed that, with all due respect, the electronic filing system now mandated was undoubtedly the most incredibly stupid change ever forced upon the practicing attorneys and basically inserted the “Final Nail” into the coffin of professionalism.&nbsp;

At the commencement of his legal career, he was extremely proud of the legal profession, and his involvement in the same. At the time of death, he was extremely discouraged as to the state of the legal profession, it being his belief that advertising, a lack of ethics, a lack of honesty, and the adoption of greedy concepts have been extremely destructive to the legal profession.&nbsp;

Kenneth L. Kerns elected to check it in on the 22nd&nbsp;day of May, 2021.&nbsp;

Should a monument of some type be required to commemorate the life of the subject decedent, he would suggest the following inscription: “Your Honor, I object”.&nbsp;

Friends may come to Bryant Funeral Home to sign the register book from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, June 11, 2021, and the family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, June 12, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Josh Leu presiding. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be designated to the&nbsp;Mennonite Relief Fund, Salvation Army or Golden Belt Humane Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Written and Demanded it be submitted by the Decedent.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623094771874.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Dateline:&nbsp;Great Bend, KansasThe subject decedent, Kenneth L. Kerns, was born, or perhaps stork delivered, on the 29th&nbsp;day of December, 1943, at the Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital located in El Dorado, Butler County, Kansas.&nbsp;He was the son, and first child, of Clarence H. Kerns and Vivian R. (Hursh) Kerns, husband and wife.&nbsp;The father, Clarence H. Kerns, was personally present at the conception of the subject decedent, but was not personally present at the time of the birth of his son. At the time of such birth, or stork delivery, Clarence H. Kerns was on active duty in the Army Air Corps, and stationed at Grand Forks, North Dakota. He was involved in a B-29 project relating to the development of a bomb of some type, and he always considered Grand Forks, North Dakota, to be a wonderful, tropical retreat.&nbsp;Kenneth L. Kerns grew up at El Dorado, Kansas, a community noted at the time for two active oil refineries, and in conjunction therewith, noted for pure, clean air. However, he is indebted to Skelly Oil Co. for providing refinery employment for Clarence H. Kerns.Kenneth strongly believed that having an opportunity to grow up in a small, midwestern community during the 1950’s was a definite blessing. He was convinced that there has never been a better time to encounter the joys and hardships of youth and puberty. He strongly believed that we need to return to a political administration under the direction of one Dwight David Eisenhower, with all citizens being blessed with a 1957 Chevrolet.Ken attended and graduated from El Dorado High School in 1961 and then attended and graduated from El Dorado Junior College, now known as Butler County Community College, in 1963. He then attended and graduated from Kansas State College at Pittsburg in 1965. He acquired a Bachelor’s Degree, the primary focus being social or political science. At such time, he intended to become a secondary level school teacher. However, he was persuaded by a very good friend to submit himself to the law school admission test, and, thereafter, decided to attend law school.&nbsp;Ken attended and graduated from Washburn University School of Law in 1968, with a Juris Doctorate being granted.&nbsp;He commenced the practice of law at Great Bend, Kansas during August, 1968. He continued with the practice of law from 1968 to the time of his death.&nbsp;In view of the duration of his practice of law, one must certainly conclude that he was older than dirt at the time of his demise.&nbsp;He married Connie M. Bell during March, 1990. This marriage has thankfully survived. He frequently expressed the belief that he had finally located a “good” woman.&nbsp;Kenneth L. Kerns is survived by his wife, Connie, his son, Brian L. Kerns, and wife, Tamra, of Austin, Texas, his step-daughter, Rhonda Weingrad and her husband Mark (the food mooch), of Great Bend, his grandson, Landen Kerns, his granddaughter, McKenna Kerns, his step-granddaughter, Ashley McGinnis, and her husband, Sam and Baby Mac, his step-granddaughter, Autumn Weingrad, and his good friend and companion, Sherman the Cat. He is also survived by a brother, Maynard L. Kerns, of El Dorado, Kansas and a sister, Mary Gayle Spoon and husband Dean, of Leon, Kansas. He was also predeceased by his great friend, Stonewall the Cat, his fuzzy companion, Buggzer the Rabbit, and the great animal, Miss Kitty the Cat.&nbsp;During his presence in Great Bend, Kansas, the subject decedent was a member and held various offices with the Great Bend Jaycees, and a member and officer of the state Jaycee organization. He was also a member of Elks Lodge No. 1127 for a substantial number of years, and an auxiliary member of the V.F.W. For several years, he served as the advisor to an explorer post, legal related, under the Boy Scout organization. He was also involved in instrumental and initiating Hope, Incorporated, a predecessor to organizations now existing to assist the mentally challenged. He has been a member of the Barton County Bar Association since 1968, and has served as both the president and the secretary of such organization. He has also been a member of the Kansas Bar Association since 1968.During his presence in Great Bend, Kansas, he has been a member of the First Presbyterian Church, and is presently a member of the First Christian Church.&nbsp;Individuals who have been associated and acquainted with Mr. Kerns will certainly attest that he always expounded progressive ideas. He honored a lifetime mandate, this being as follows: “Change is Bad”. He undoubtedly considers his present state of lifelessness to fit within the same category, that being that this “change” is bad.&nbsp;Ken did encounter some difficulty with electronic devices as well as anything mechanical. Had he been the king of the world, he would have undoubtedly destroyed all computers, cell phones and related items. He held an extreme dislike for the electronic filing approach adopted by the court system in the State of Kansas, such feeling being amplified by the destructive force of the same, in the opinion of Mr. Kerns, to the legal profession.&nbsp;At the time of his death, the subject decedent was extremely discouraged as to the state of the legal profession. In the opinion of Mr. Kerns, the permissive use of advertising for the legal profession basically eliminated professionalism. He strongly believed that, with all due respect, the electronic filing system now mandated was undoubtedly the most incredibly stupid change ever forced upon the practicing attorneys and basically inserted the “Final Nail” into the coffin of professionalism.&nbsp;At the commencement of his legal career, he was extremely proud of the legal profession, and his involvement in the same. At the time of death, he was extremely discouraged as to the state of the legal profession, it being his belief that advertising, a lack of ethics, a lack of honesty, and the adoption of greedy concepts have been extremely destructive to the legal profession.&nbsp;Kenneth L. Kerns elected to check it in on the 22nd&nbsp;day of May, 2021.&nbsp;Should a monument of some type be required to commemorate the life of the subject decedent, he would suggest the following inscription: “Your Honor, I object”.&nbsp;Friends may come to Bryant Funeral Home to sign the register book from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, June 11, 2021, and the family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, June 12, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Josh Leu presiding. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be designated to the&nbsp;Mennonite Relief Fund, Salvation Army or Golden Belt Humane Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.Written and Demanded it be submitted by the Decedent.&nbsp;Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Arrangements by&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryant Funeral Home&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1425 Patton Road&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;67530

Kenneth L. Kerns

Clifford James Luke, 72, passed away April 17, 2021, at his home in Great Bend. He was born&nbsp;September 29, 1948, at Rochelle, Ill., to Chalon &amp; Avis (Lewis) Luke. He married Kathleen Spurgeon March 19, 2004, at Gibson City, Ill.

A resident of Great Bend since 2019, Clifford worked in the agriculture and canning industries in Illinois for many years. He enjoyed reading and spending time with family and friends. For several years he used his vacation to go on mission work trips at Kemmerer Village Children’s Home. His passion was gardening, especially growing tomatoes.&nbsp;

Survivors include, his wife, Reverend Kathleen Luke of First Presbyterian Church; two sons, Christopher (Lynn) Luke and Corey (Lisa) Luke; a step daughter, Stef Edmisson Mirjah; a step son, Joseph Edmisson; and four grandchildren, Madelyn, Travis, Truman and Scarlett. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Cheryl Luke.&nbsp;

The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 12, 2021, at First Presbyterian Church, Great Bend. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 10:00 a.m. at the church, with Reverend Julie Bunt presiding.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to First Presbyterian Church or Kemmerer Village Children's Home, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Dateline:&nbsp;Great Bend, KansasClifford James Luke, 72, passed away April 17, 2021, at his home in Great Bend. He was born&nbsp;September 29, 1948, at Rochelle, Ill., to Chalon &amp; Avis (Lewis) Luke. He married Kathleen Spurgeon March 19, 2004, at Gibson City, Ill.A resident of Great Bend since 2019, Clifford worked in the agriculture and canning industries in Illinois for many years. He enjoyed reading and spending time with family and friends. For several years he used his vacation to go on mission work trips at Kemmerer Village Children’s Home. His passion was gardening, especially growing tomatoes.&nbsp;Survivors include, his wife, Reverend Kathleen Luke of First Presbyterian Church; two sons, Christopher (Lynn) Luke and Corey (Lisa) Luke; a step daughter, Stef Edmisson Mirjah; a step son, Joseph Edmisson; and four grandchildren, Madelyn, Travis, Truman and Scarlett. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Cheryl Luke.&nbsp;The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 12, 2021, at First Presbyterian Church, Great Bend. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 10:00 a.m. at the church, with Reverend Julie Bunt presiding.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to First Presbyterian Church or Kemmerer Village Children's Home, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Arrangements by&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryant Funeral Home&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1425 Patton Road&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;67530

Clifford James Luke

TUSCON, ARIZONA – Ruth Marie Hoard, passed away June 16, 2020, at Peppi’s Hospice House, Tucson, Ariz. Ruth was born June 29, 1928, at Hoisington, Kan., she was the daughter of Clifford and Ruth Shook. She married Donald Pound in 1951 and he passed away in 1968. She then married Richard Hoard in 1970 and he passed away in 1987.&nbsp;

She graduated from Victoria High School in 1946, and attended Fort Hays State College. Ruth has been a resident of Tucson for the past 35 years. She was formally a secretary for CRA in Great Bend, Kan. Ruth was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Amaranth, and American Legion Argonne Post 180 Auxiliary, all of Great Bend. Ruth loved gardening, cooking and talking. She most loved spending time with her family. Her favorite quote was “I wasn’t much, but I tried.”

Survivors include, daughters, Donna (R.C.) Williams of Great Bend, Kan., and Shannon DeHaan of Pawnee Rock, Kan.; granddaughters, Tamyra (Chad) Fuller of David City, Neb., and Jana (Lonny) Cook of Great Bend, Kan.; grandsons, Shawn (Elisha) DeHaan of Spearman, Tex., and Ryan DeHaan and companion Shelly Peacock of Great Bend, Kan.; great grandchildren, Mack Fuller, Andrew Fuller, R.J. Cook, Darby King, Connor DeHaan, Colton DeHaan, Jericho Riddle, Jaron Riddle, Reese Bullard, and Keldon Bullard; and great great grandchildren, Mychal, Jaymes and Kaya. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Wink Shook and Tom Shook; sister, Harriet Logsdon; a son in law, Ron DeHaan; a grandson, Terry Lee Riddle; and granddaughter, Nicole Sue DeHaan.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 12, 2021, at the Great Bend Cemetery with Pastor Larry Schumacher presiding. Memorials are suggested to Kans for Kids, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622837616631.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TUSCON, ARIZONA – Ruth Marie Hoard, passed away June 16, 2020, at Peppi’s Hospice House, Tucson, Ariz. Ruth was born June 29, 1928, at Hoisington, Kan., she was the daughter of Clifford and Ruth Shook. She married Donald Pound in 1951 and he passed away in 1968. She then married Richard Hoard in 1970 and he passed away in 1987.&nbsp;She graduated from Victoria High School in 1946, and attended Fort Hays State College. Ruth has been a resident of Tucson for the past 35 years. She was formally a secretary for CRA in Great Bend, Kan. Ruth was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Amaranth, and American Legion Argonne Post 180 Auxiliary, all of Great Bend. Ruth loved gardening, cooking and talking. She most loved spending time with her family. Her favorite quote was “I wasn’t much, but I tried.”Survivors include, daughters, Donna (R.C.) Williams of Great Bend, Kan., and Shannon DeHaan of Pawnee Rock, Kan.; granddaughters, Tamyra (Chad) Fuller of David City, Neb., and Jana (Lonny) Cook of Great Bend, Kan.; grandsons, Shawn (Elisha) DeHaan of Spearman, Tex., and Ryan DeHaan and companion Shelly Peacock of Great Bend, Kan.; great grandchildren, Mack Fuller, Andrew Fuller, R.J. Cook, Darby King, Connor DeHaan, Colton DeHaan, Jericho Riddle, Jaron Riddle, Reese Bullard, and Keldon Bullard; and great great grandchildren, Mychal, Jaymes and Kaya. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Wink Shook and Tom Shook; sister, Harriet Logsdon; a son in law, Ron DeHaan; a grandson, Terry Lee Riddle; and granddaughter, Nicole Sue DeHaan.A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 12, 2021, at the Great Bend Cemetery with Pastor Larry Schumacher presiding. Memorials are suggested to Kans for Kids, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Arrangements by&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryant Funeral Home&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1425 Patton Road&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;67530

Ruth Marie Hoard

Betty Jean Schmidt, 99, passed away January 18, 2021, at Brookdale Senior Living, Great Bend. She was born July 31, 1921, in Larned, Kansas to Virgil &amp; Eula (Edwards) Standish. She married&nbsp;Jack E. Schmidt September 22, 1940 in Larned.&nbsp;&nbsp;He died June 19, 2001.

A Great Bend resident, Betty was a homemaker. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, American Legion Post #180 Auxiliary, V.F.W. Post #3111 Auxiliary. She enjoyed golfing with Jack at Lake Barton Golf Course, the Saturday night dances at the Legion and playing bridge.&nbsp;

Survivors include, two sons, Robert Schmidt and wife Karen of Chandler, Ariz., and Douglas Schmidt and significant other Debbie Mrozinski of Manitowoc, Wis.; and a granddaughter, Christy Goddard and husband Darrell. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Schmidt; a daughter in law, Barbara Schmidt; and two brothers, Jack Standish, and Virgil Standish, Jr.&nbsp;

Graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 9, 2021, at the Great Bend Cemetery with Reverend Kathleen Luke presiding. Memorials have been designated to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;

The family would also like to extend a special Thank You to the entire staff of Brookdale Senior Living for all the excellent care given to our mother.&nbsp;

Dateline:&nbsp;Great Bend, KansasBetty Jean Schmidt, 99, passed away January 18, 2021, at Brookdale Senior Living, Great Bend. She was born July 31, 1921, in Larned, Kansas to Virgil &amp; Eula (Edwards) Standish. She married&nbsp;Jack E. Schmidt September 22, 1940 in Larned.&nbsp;&nbsp;He died June 19, 2001.A Great Bend resident, Betty was a homemaker. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, American Legion Post #180 Auxiliary, V.F.W. Post #3111 Auxiliary. She enjoyed golfing with Jack at Lake Barton Golf Course, the Saturday night dances at the Legion and playing bridge.&nbsp;Survivors include, two sons, Robert Schmidt and wife Karen of Chandler, Ariz., and Douglas Schmidt and significant other Debbie Mrozinski of Manitowoc, Wis.; and a granddaughter, Christy Goddard and husband Darrell. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Schmidt; a daughter in law, Barbara Schmidt; and two brothers, Jack Standish, and Virgil Standish, Jr.&nbsp;Graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, June 9, 2021, at the Great Bend Cemetery with Reverend Kathleen Luke presiding. Memorials have been designated to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;The family would also like to extend a special Thank You to the entire staff of Brookdale Senior Living for all the excellent care given to our mother.&nbsp;Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Arrangements by&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryant Funeral Home&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1425 Patton Road&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Great Bend, Kansas&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;67530

Obituaries