2022 Memorials
Eberhart, Brad
Manges, Charlotte E
Penland, Nick
Rosell, Bob
Ukena, Jerry
Wells, Greg
2023 Memorials
Brown, Bruce E
Davis, Gary B
Haynes, Ira C
Johns, Susan (Weaver)
McNair, Reba
Reichle, Jeri
Wilhoite, Michael
Wilkerson, Sharon
2024 Memorials
Hofman, Linda A
Norvell, Mark L
Kathryn T. Bohannon
FORT COLLINS, Colo. Word has been received of the death of former Manhattan resident Kathryn T. Bohannon, 40, Littleton, Colorado, on May 3, 1992, as the result of injuries she sustained in an automobile accident.
Ms. Bohannon was born August 24, 1951, in Seneca. She grew up in Manhattan, and graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969. She was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi, and graduated Cum Laude from Kansas State University in 1974.
She was a graduate student of Colorado State University in the Department of Design and Merchandising and Consumer Sciences in 1991. Prior to her return to school, Kathryn was an Environmental Consultant in Denver and an Environmental Engineer with Eastman Kodak in Windsor, Colorado and Rochester, New York. She did volunteer work for Larimer Country Hospice and the American Cancer Society.
She married David J. Folkes on Sept. 29, 1984, in Fort Collins. He survives of the home in Littleton.
Other survivors include her father and stepmother, Robert and Judy Bohannon, Greenville, N.C., and two sisters, Karen S. Verti, Fort Collins, and Ellen K. Oppenlander, Clark, Mo.
The funeral was conducted this morning at the Reager Funeral home in Fort Collins. Pastor Bob Stauch officiated. Burial was in Grandview Cemetery at Fort Collins.
Bruce Eugene Brown August 21, 1951 - June 24, 2023
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bruce Brown, a beloved father, grandfather, and music enthusiast. Born in Kansas, Bruce's journey brought him to Austin in 1986, where he made a lasting impact on those around him.
Bruce was a devoted father to his two sons, Kyle and Brent Brown. He cherished every moment spent with them, instilling in them values of love, compassion, and the importance of family. He was also blessed with the joy of being a loving grandfather to his cherished granddaughter, Iyla, who brought immense happiness to his life. He will also be remembered by his two loving sisters Jan Wilson and Jody DeLay and his caring Father Leland Brown.
Bruce's passion for music was undeniable. Whether he was playing his favorite tunes or attending live concerts, he found solace and joy in the rhythm of melodies. His love for music brought people together and created lasting memories.
Above all, Bruce's true happiness came from spending time with his boys, Iyla, and his girlfriend Adele Gherardi. They were the light of his life, and their bond was a testament to the strength of family ties.
In the wake of his passing, Bruce leaves behind cherished memories that will be treasured by those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of his family and friends.
May he rest in peace, forever surrounded by the harmony of the music he loved and the warmth of the love he shared.
Norma Gail (Byrd) White
Norma Gail (Byrd) White, 48 Manhattan, died Wednesday, August 4, 1999, at Mercy Health Center on College Avenue following a sudden illness.
She was born Jan. 1, 1951 at Manhattan. She grew up in Manhattan and attended the local public schools. She was married to Weldon W. White on Jan. 8, 1978 at Manhattan.
Mrs White was a lifelong resident of Manhattan. She worked in the child daycare centers, first at the First United Methodist Church, and later at the Douglas Center. She later worked as a homecare giver, first through the Social and Rehabilation Services and later with the Three Rivers Independent Living Resource Center in Wamego. She was a member of the Church of Christ in Manhattan. She was preceded in death by a step-daughter, Cindy Sue White.
Survivors include her husband; a daughter, Carrie Lewis, Manhattan; a son Wayne White, Manhattan; five step-sons, Ernest White, Wamego, and Weldon W. White Jr., Chester White, Rex White and Howard White, all of Ogden; a brother, Rodney Byrd, San Diego, Calif.; two sisters, Lynn Holtman, Belvue, and Nancy Backman, Riley; and three step grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home in Manhattan with Brian Cobb officiating. Burial will follow in Dwight Cemetery in Dwight.
Charles (Chuck) Carlson
Charles (Chuck) Carlson, 57, of Leonardville, died Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2006, at Mercy Regional Health Center in Manhattan.
Some of the following information was provided by his family.
He was born Sept. 26, 1949, in Manhattan, the son of Donald and Roma (Liby) Carlson. He graduated from Manhattan High School in the class of 1969.
Chuck worked for facilities management at KSU for 30 years, retiring in 2004.
He is survived by his father, Donald Carlson and his wife Marion of Scotia, Neb., his mother Roma Riek and husband Don of Clay Center; four brothers, Alan Carlson and wife Kathy of Eudora, Tim Carlson of Charleston, S.C., Lonnie Carlson and wife Catherine of Seattle, Wash., and Dennis Riek of Clay Center; three sisters, Terri Snyder and Brent of Clay Center, DeeAnn Roy and husband Daniel of Scotia, Neb., and Rita Alexander and husband Ross of Greeley, Co., and 11 nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, at the Holmes-Pfeifley Funeral Home in Riley, with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Holmes Pfiefley Funeral Home in Riley, Kansas. Burial will be in the Leonardville Cemetery, Kansas.
Teresa Coppersmith
Teresa died Sept 2, 2017 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and is buried at Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan.
She requested no obituary to be printed
Gary Brian Davis, age 72, passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease at NHC in Maryland Heights on October 12th, 2023.
Born on February 3rd, 1951, in Maryland, Gary spent his formative years in Manhattan, Kansas. A graduate of Manhattan High School and Kansas State University, he earned his degree in Construction Sciences and Business in 1974. His summers in college were enriched by his time in Alaska, learning the construction trade and spending time with family there. Gary eventually found his calling as a Construction Estimator. After a few years in Kansas City, he relocated to St. Louis, started a family, and joined JS Alberici Construction. He mostly retired in 2009, never losing passion for his craft.
Gary had a love for many things-music, dogs, skiing, and Corvettes, to name a few. He was particularly fond of working with his hands, whether that involved construction or tinkering with various projects. Known for his easy-going and jovial spirit, Gary had the gift of turning strangers into friends and always enjoyed sharing a laugh.
He is survived by his loving wife, Karen; his daughters, Kristin and Meredith; his son, Bradley; and his four grandchildren, Collin, Ethan, Henri, and Ada. Gary also leaves behind his siblings, Jeanine, Lavonne, and Mark, along with a host of extended family and friends.
Raymond L Dennis
Raymond L. Dennis, 64, of Robinson, IL, died at 3:38 p.m. on Tuesday, March 8, 2016 at his home. He was born August 15, 1951 in Fort Lee, VA, the son of Charles Dennis & Virginia Cantwell Dennis, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Rodney Dennis and Randy McQuin.
He is survived by his siblings & their spouses, Rev. Roger & Barbara Dennis (Russell, KS), Rose Marie & Glen Thompson (Norwalk, IA), Ruth Ann & David Barron (Santa Rosa, CA), Roberta Dennis & Arlen Peter (Ames, IA); as well as several nieces and nephews.
He graduated from high school in Manhattan, KS in 1969. He went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army Reserves from October 1969-November 1975. Family meant everything to Raymond, and they will forever remember the love he had and shared with them.
Denise (Dixon) Wells
Denise Ann Wells, 51, Manhattan, died Wednesday, October 30, 2002, at the Mercy Regional Health Center after an extended illness.
She was born Sept. 26, 1951, at Jonesboro, Ark., the daughter of Lyle and Carol (McNeal) Dixon.
She graduated from Kansas State University in 1989, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration, with a major in accounting.
She attended Sedalia Community Church and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta Alumni Club, Job's Daughters, and had been a Girl Scout leader.
She was married Dec. 20, 1970, to Gregory Wells; he survives of the home.
Mrs. Wells is also survived by one son, Sean Wells, Manhattan; one daughter, Samantha Gust, Manhattan; her parents, Lyle and Carol Dixon, Manhattan; and two sisters, Madelyn Short, Manhattan and Cheri Vines, Wichita.
Michael Keith Christensen
Michael Keith Christensen, 49, died Saturday, September 9, 2000, in El Mirage, Arizona, after an extended illness. Mr Christensen was a Manhattan resident until 1992.
He was born April 3, 1951, in Lincoln, Nebraska. He moved to Manhattan in 1960, when his father accepted a teaching position at Kansas State University.
He graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969 and worked for many years at The McCall Pattern Company and Dillions as a baker. He moved to Arizona in 1992 to live near his parents who had retired to Sun City West, Ariz.
He is survived by his parents, Keith and Gertrude Christensen of Sun City West, Ariz., and a brother Jon Christensen and his children Mathew and Erin of Wichita.
Brad Eberhart 1951 - June 20, 2022
Ernest Bradley “Brad” Eberhart died June 20, 2022, at the age of 71 in Topeka, Kansas. He was born in 1951 in Manhattan, Kansas. He was the son of Ozella (Yowell) and Robert Eberhart. He graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969 and attended Kansas State University. He felt called to a spiritual journey that took him to live in communities of other students in Kansas City, Miami, Denver and Ashville, NC. under the leadership of Prem Rawat, his life-long spiritual teacher. While in Kansas City, Brad learned the art of natural baking and opened a natural foods bakery in Kansas City called Clearly Nature’s Own which later became a Whole Foods store. Later, when he was based in Miami, he helped lead the team that prepared all the food for 200 people, daily. He also organized and lead the baking operations for their large festivals of over 20,000 people. He also baked very large cakes for Prem and his family for special occasions.
After he developed back issues from scoliosis in his late 20s, he pursued natural healing modalities in Santa Monica, California and Springfield, Missouri. In Springfield, he had a large circle of close friends through Unity Church of Christianity, classes and fellowship. He continued his affiliation with Unity when he moved to Topeka. Through his search for healing, he learned about alternative healing modalities, healthy eating, supplements and herbal medicine. He made his own herbal tinctures and kept many files on what he was learning from early natural healers. It was one of his biggest joys to talk about and assist others to live more healthy lifestyles.
moved to Topeka in 2008 and lived with his sister, Kim Olson and one of her two daughters, Alex Olson for five years. Kim’s daughter Courtney Olson (Shinn) was in college and home for summers. Brad was very close to his sister and nieces. Kim was Brad’s best friend and they relied on each other for support throughout both of their lives. He taught his niece, Alex how to bake natural cakes from recipes he very methodically created. It was a fun family tradition to see what kind of cakes they would dream up for special occasions. Brad had a huge influence on how Alex viewed the world and who she became as a person. He also shared a special bond with Courtney and her two adorable boys, Parker, 3 and Bennett, 5. He helped make cardboard forts and took Bennet berry picking.
Kim introduced Brad to Jancy Pettit, and they began a relationship in 2009. They shared a very special connection and a love of cooking, nature, flower gardens, frequent trips to the pool, drives in the country and spirituality.
In recent years, Brad started and operated a successful online supplement business called Healthwise Naturals. He researched to find the best product and used his extensive skills in natural medicine to steer the business.
Brad is survived by his partner, Jancy Pettit; his sister, Kim Olson; niece Courtney (Blake) Shinn; their two sons, Parker and Bennett of Topeka; and niece Alex Olson (Jake Lewis) of Lawrence.
All who knew Brad experienced him as a kind, loving, non-judgmental soul who knew how to love fully. And he often was spontaneously humorous and playful. He was the best listener if we needed an ear. He never raised his voice and had a calm presence about him. He continued his practice of meditation throughout his life and lived in a very holistic, natural, vegetarian lifestyle and taught us all how to live healthier. Even with his chronic health issues, he had a great appreciation of life. He is loved and will be missed by us all.
Randy Gould July 14, 1951 - January 19, 2020
Randy E. Gould, left this earth peacefully on Sunday, January 19, 2020 at 4:47 a.m. He is now without the pain and suffering of Parkinson's that gradually took his dignity for eleven years. Randy decided that he didn't want to go alone, so Turbo the horse, passed on Friday, January 17th and Bert the dog, passed on Sunday January 19th to be with him.
Randy was born in Manhattan, Kansas, July 14, 1951, to Ronald and Dorothy Rush Gould. He is a graduate of Manhattan High School, Class of 1969 and Manhattan Area Technical College. He has been married to Frances "Frankie" Wilkins Gould for 48 years. They have been residents of their adopted state of Louisiana for 35 years. Randy retired from the Louisiana State University Department of Physics and Astronomy after 33 years as an Electronic Research Specialist. He supported the department's research faculty on numerous projects, during which he had the opportunity to travel internationally to Antarctica (4 times), Japan and Switzerland. He loved his Francois, ranchette, animals, friends, family, boating, LSU football and baseball, New Orleans Saints, Reggae music, playing tennis and chess but most of all riding motorcycles.
Louis Alfred Hanson
Louis Alfred Hanson, 33 died Friday, October 12, 1984. He was the son of Myron R. and Vera M. (Montgomery) Hanson.
Mr. Hanson was born Dec. 29, 1950 in Manhattan. He attended Manhattan public schools and graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969.
He was a graduate of Kansas State University in 1974, and received a commission from the Department of Military Science. Mr. Hanson was a school teacher in elementary school systems in both New York and North Carolina and worked as a painter in Manhattan.
Survivors include his wife, JoAnn Luehring of New York, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Myron R. Hanson, Manhattan; and two sisters, Teresa (Terry) Peterson of Randolph, and Joy Richards of Hayden Lake, Idaho.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Cowan-Edwards-Yorgensen Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Randolph-Fancy Creek Cemetery, Randolph, Kansas.
James Douglas Harder
Word has been received here of the death in a traffic accident March 12, 1981, in California of James Douglas Harder, a former resident of Manhattan.
He was a 1969 graduate of Manhattan High School and was graduated from Kansas State University, cum laude, in 1973. Mr. Harder was a former employee of Safeway.
He is survived by his wife, Melissa Harder, Modesto, Calif.; his parents, George and Elva May Harder, Coundil Grove; three sisters, Rita Loomis, Council Grove, and Susan G. Harder and Anita Jo Harder, both of Emporia; four brothers, Paul Henry Harder II, College Station, Texas, Kenneth Harder and Karl Harder, both of Cottonwood Falls, and Monty J. Harder, Council Grove.
Memorial services were held March 18, at the Central United Methodist Church, Stockton, Calif. Burial was in Cherokee Memorial Park, Stockton.
Ira C Haynes II May 28,1951 - July 4, 2023
Ira C. Haynes II passed away July 4th, 2023 at his home in Manhattan, KS. Ira was born May 28th, 1951 and after graduating high school he worked alongside his father at their business, Haynes Style Shop and Beauty Supply. Together they owned the barber shop for more than 100 years. Ira was also one of the original owners of Harry's Uptown Restaurant and Rock-A-Belly Deli in Manhattan. Ira spent his free time hunting, boating, and fishing with friends at his Lake Elbo home. He loved animals and never knew a stranger.
Ira is survived by his sister Sheri Dahler-Haynes, nephews Scott, Tom, and Justin Brown and nieces Lynn, Angie, Jamie, and Jenny. He is also survived by his daughter Lindsay O'Neil and her children. Ira will be greatly missed and forever loved.
Denice Henoch
Denise D. Henoch, 63, Ottawa passed Sept 15, 2015. Memorial Service 5pm Sat, Sept 19, Elks Lodge 114 1/2 West 2nd St, Ottawa, KS 66067. Mrs. Henoch was born November 16, 1951 in Manhattan, KS.
Linda A. Hofman December 6, 1951 - June 21, 2024
Linda A. Hofman, age 72, of Junction City, Kansas, passed away quietly at home on June 21, 2024.
Linda was born December 6, 1951, in Ft. Benning, Georgia, the daughter of Ray and Doris (Bock) Hofman. Ray’s military career had the family stationed twice in Ft. Benning, along with Ft. McClellan, Alabama and Ft. Richardson, Alaska, before coming to Manhattan in 1963. She graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969.
Linda completed her BA degree from Kansas State and worked as a graphic artist in the healthcare industry for several years before returning to Kansas State to complete her teaching requirements. The next twenty-five years Linda was able to utilize her creative talents as an elementary art teacher in the Junction City school district. This position required her to travel to multiple schools within the district as well as manage art supplies for multiple class plans. She was often recognized around Junction City by many of her previous students.
Linda was preceded in death by her parents: Ray and Doris Hofman and brother Lawrence Hofman.
Survivors include siblings: Jerrel Hofman (Jennifer
Reba McNair Holmes
Reba Caroline McNair Holmes was the oldest of five children born in the 1950s to Norma and Joe McNair of Manhattan, Kansas.
Reba pursued a degree in elementary education at Wichita State University, where she met her husband, Verl. They married in May 1972. Reba completed her undergraduate degree at Westminster College in Salt Lake City. For the next 15 years, Reba was a full-time mom. Later, she worked at Plains & Peaks Regional Library Service System, reigniting a passion for public education and school libraries. Reba earned a master's in library and media services at the University of Colorado, Denver, and worked for Harrison School District 2 and several other school libraries in Colorado Springs and Denver.
Reba retired in June 2017, upon a diagnosis of frontal temporal dementia, presenting as primary progressive aphasia. Words are inadequate to fully express gratitude to Reba's many caregivers, especially Jamillah Allen, who ministered to Reba through New Century Hospice from 2020 until the end.
Reba leaves behind Verl, her husband of 51 years; three children: Caroline Olfert and Jeff, Jason Holmes and Jill, Christopher Holmes and Jenelle; and six grandchildren: Micah and Darcy Holmes, Liam and Eli Olfert, Connor and Charlie Holmes. She is survived by four brothers and their families: John and Joanne, Joe and Cara, Jim, and Eric. She will be missed by a large and loving extended family and her many friends.
Judy Livingston
Judy Eileen Livingston, 66, of Manhattan, KS, passed away Friday, December 15th, at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan. She was a housekeeper at Putnam Hall at Kansas State University and will be remembered as a very proud, thoughtful and private person.
Judy was born in Manhattan, on July 17, 1951, the daughter of the late Mary Ellen (Cox) and Robert Earl Hoerner. She proud graduate from Manhattan High School in the spring of 1969. On June 4, 1989, she was united in marriage to Robert L. Livingston. Judy and Robert attended Blue Valley United Methodist Church in Manhattan.
Judy is survived by her husband, Robert of the home; three sisters, Kay (Toby) Powell, of St. George; Betty (Matt) Schneweis, of Milton Florida; Janet (John) Chas, of Leonardville; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Cynthia Starr Hunter-Hutchinson
April 18th 1951 - April 16th 2015
Cynthia Starr Hunter-Hutchinson passed on April 16, 2016 in Laguna Beach, California, after a two-year battle with brain cancer.
She is the daughter of Dr. James and Dorothy Hunter, with sisters Leslie and Lorrie and brother Jim.
Her daughters are Kelly Hutchinson Kai and Dana Hutchinson.
She was a graduate of Colorado State University and became Miss Colorado in 1974.
Jody House Wrightson
Jody House Wrightson, 53, Columbus, Ohio, died Saturday, January 29, 2005, in a Columbus hospital after battling multiple sclerosis for 29 years.
She was born May 11, 1951 in Hutchinson, the daughter of Mel and Mary House. She graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969. She graduated cum laude from Kansas State University with a bachelor's and master's degree. In 1995, she earned a doctor's degree from Ohio State University after eight years of study. She was a graduate teacher's assistant from 1972 to 1974. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church.
She is survived by parents Mel and Mary House of Manhattan; a sister, Marcie Dow of Salina; and a brother, Roger House, who had lived with Jody for the last 11 years to take care of his sister; three nieces and nephews; and seven great nieces and nephews, all of Salina.
Susan (Johns) Weaver
On Sunday, February 26, 2023, in Manhattan, Kansas, Susan Weaver, beloved wife and mother, passed into eternity.
Born in Manhattan, Kansas on January 31, 1951, to Jim and June Johns, she worked in her father’s creamery, John’s Creamery, from kindergarten until her graduation from Kansas State University in 1973 with a BS degree in education. After graduation, Susan taught two years of special education in Greenleaf, Kansas.
On January 8, 1977, she married Tracy Weaver and began a 46 year long honeymoon. She had “Ruth 1:16-17” inscribed on Tracy’s wedding band which includes these words from the Bible, “Wherever you go, I will go, wherever you live, I will live…”. During their marriage, Susan and Tracy were blessed with five children and lived in Salina, Kansas, Louisville, Kentucky, Nashville, Tennessee, Dyersberg, Tennessee, Newbern, Tennessee, Atlanta, Georgia, Ottawa, Kansas, finally returning to Manhattan, Kansas in 1998.
At every new location, the Weavers made lifelong friendships at church and in the community. Susan put her education degree to use by homeschooling all five of their children, and each one went on to graduate from the Kansas State University College of Engineering.
Known for her generous heart, in Susan’s craft room, you would find quilting, lacemaking, crochet, needlework and knitting projects, which were then given to family and friends or donated to charity. After her children graduated from high school, and her homeschooling job was completed, Susan did not retire, but continued to teach others, tutoring young women so they would pass the exam to receive their GED. Over the years, Susan and Tracy led many small groups at their church, encouraging individuals and couples to live lives of Christian faith and integrity. Above all else, Susan’s goal was to follow the example of Jesus by loving God and serving others. Those who know Susan would agree that she met that goal in her own quiet, gentle, yet powerful, way.
Susan will be missed by her many friends and family and is survived by her husband Tracy, children, Ben Weaver (Eaton, CO), Sam, Teresa and grandson Samuel Weaver (Westminster, MD), John Weaver (Olathe, KS), Jim Weaver (Olathe, KS), Abby Weaver (Grandview, MO), mother Betty June Johns (Manhattan, KS), sisters, Nancy Glover (Grand Junction, CO), and Peggy Johns and Marion Tilford (Manhattan, KS), brother Joe and Sharon Johns (Manhattan, KS), nieces and nephews, Brad Glover (Denver, CO), Clinton and Samantha Johns (St. George, KS), Robin Johns Wahl (St. George, KS), grand nieces and nephews, Maisee and Morrison Johns, Avery, Tucker and Cooper Wahl.
Karen E. (Jones) Prevette
Karen E. Prevette, 52, of Bluefield, Va., died Saturday, April 3, 2004, at the Ohio State University Medical Center.
She was a 1969 graduate of Manhattan High School and a 1973 graduate of Kansas State University.
She was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, P.E.O. Sisterhood, and the Red Hat Society of Bluefield, Va. She was employed for many years in the clothing retailing industry and she also worked for Fidelity Investments Services in Kentucky.
She was preceded in death by her husband Prince Prevette in July 2001. She is survived by children, Lisa Ward and husband Chris of Cincinnati; and twins Tony Prevette and Laurie Prevette of Radford, Va.; parents C. Clyde and Midge Jones of Manhattan; a sister, Kristin Schoeff and husband Eric of Columbus, Ohio; a brother, Clifton Jones and wife Kim of Topeka; and sister-in-law Dani Messamore and Laura Neff of Tenn.
Services will be in Bluefield, Va. Inurnment will be at Monte Vista Memorial Gardens, Johnson City, Tenn. Arrangements are being handled by Southwick-Good and Fortkamp Funeral Chapel in Columbus, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Center for Basic Cancer Research, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506.
Pamela Sue (Just) Younkin
Pamela Sue Younkin, 29, Oklahoma City, Okla., died Friday, Nov. 18, 1981, at Mercy Health Center, Oklahoma City. Cause of death was undisclosed.
Sue was born Dec. 22, 1951, the daughter of Bill and Nelva Lee Just. She grew up in the Manhattan area, graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969, attended Kansas State University for three years and married Charles Younkin.
Survivors include her husband, of the home in Oklahoma City; a daughter, Carley, and a son, Jeremy, both of the home; a brother, Randy Just, Oklahoma City; and grandparents, Harold and Mabel Dunham, Salina.
Mrs. Younkin was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Oklahoma City, and was a Brownie troop leader in Oklahoma City. She was a board member of IONE Branch YMCA, and was a volunteer for the March of Dimes.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday at the Resurrection Cemetery Chapel, Oklahoma City. Smith and Kernke Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.
Randy Lawrence
Randal B. “Randy” Lawrence, age 63, of Manhattan, died May 28, 2015, at Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan.
He was born May 29, 1951, in Manhattan, the son of Kenneth B. and Norma M. (Spaniol) Lawrence.
Randy graduated from Manhattan High School 1969 and from Manhattan Area Technical College in auto mechanics in 1969. He worked for McCall Pattern Company in the machine folding department and as a printer for 34 years. Randy was a member of the First United Methodist Church and the National Hot Rod Association. (NHRA).
His passion was drag racing and he raced whatever, whenever and wherever he could. He was so happy that his sons shared his interest in racing and would rather spend their weekends with him racing above all else. He enjoyed all things related to WWII and aviation. He loved babies and never passed up a chance to hold them. Most of all Randy loved his family and he enjoyed spending time with them.
On July 17, 1977, in Fostoria, Kansas, he was married to Sara S. Strifler. Sara survives of the home. Additional survivors include his two sons: Kyle and Kevin Lawrence both of Manhattan; two granddaughters: Brooke and Jordan Lawrence both of Manhattan and three siblings: Lynn Steenbarger of Manhattan, Richard Lawrence of Wichita, KS, and Roger Lawrence of El Dorado, KS; and many nieces and nephews. Randy was preceded in death by his parents and by his daughter-in-law, Jeryka Lawrence.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Jeryka Lawrence Memorial Fund or Racers for Christ. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.
Sally Anne Lewis
Sally Anne Lewis, 52, Manhattan, died Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003, at Mercy Regional Health Center after an extended illness.
She was born March 6, 1951, in Manhattan, the daughter of Donald L. Lewis and Della Mae Davis Lewis. She grew up in Manhattan, attending the local schools, and was a 1969 graduate of Manhattan High School. She later took bookkeeping and accounting classes at the Manhattan Area Vocational School.
Ms. Lewis began working as a bookkeeper for the McCall Pattern Company in Manhattan in February 1972. At the time of her death, she had accumulated more than 31 years of service with the company.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Allen Lewis.
Survivors included her parents, Donald and Della Mae Lewis, Manhattan; and two brothers, Russell W. Lewis, Wamego, and Richard D. Lewis, Manhattan.
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home with the Rev. John R. Lewis officiating. Cremation will follow with inurnment at a later date in the Riley Cemetery in Riley.
Patrick "Pat" L. Marks
Patrick L. Marks, 50, Abilene, died Friday, Nov. 2, 2001, in Abilene.
He was born March 6, 1951, in Manhattan, the son of Leo and Helen Lutz Marks. He grew up in Manhattan, attended the local schools and graduated from Manhattan High School with the class of 1969.
He attended Kansas State University and graduated from Manhattan Vocational Technical College in electrical power and distribution. He worked at DS&O Rural Electric for 29 years.
On April 2, 1977, he was united in marriage to Earleen Barnes in Manhattan. Their entire married life was spent in the Abilene area. She survives of the home.
He was a member or St. Andrew's Catholic Church, Abilene, the Abilene Elk's Club, Red Bud Lake Association, Geary Country Fish & Game Association and IBEW No. 304
His family described him as a kind and friendly man, loving husband, father and grandfather.
Survivors include two sons, Toby Marks and wife Callie, Kansas City, Mo., and Shawn Marks of the home: one daughter, Suzanne Marks, of the home; his mother Helen Marks, Manhattan; one brother, Michael Marks and wife Jan, Manhattan; four sisters, Majory Myers and husband Steve, Kansas City, Mo., Janet Becraft and husband Dave, Grandview, Mo., Kim Baldwin and Roberta Surs, both of Manhattan; one grandson, Chandler Marks; mother-and father-in-law, Clyde and Betty Barnes, sister-in-law, Rachell, nieces, nephews and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his father, Leo Marks, in 1966.
A Mass of Christian Burial was Tuesday, Nov. 6.
The family of Mr. Marks would like to say thank you to those who sent cards, plants, flowers, good food, help and comfort to them. Contributions to the Abilene Athletic Department and the American Heart Association have been overwhelming, they say. His passing was sudden and unexpected, but it is truly amazing how many lives he touched with his smile, helpful ways and never-give-up attitude. They wish to extend God's blessing to all who were kind to them during this time.
DeWayne "Mac" McManis, 56, of Manhattan, died Sunday, July 27, 2008 at his home from an extended illness.
The family provided some of the following information.
Mr. McManis was born Oct. 25, 1951, to Ray and Erma (Pawsey) McManis in Manhattan, where he was a lifetime resident.
DeWayne attended Manhattan High School and graduated in 1969. He served six years in the Kansas Army National Guard. He worked for Kershaw Ready Mix and Sutterlin Trucking before he owned his own truck and leased it to Berry Trucking. He then continued work for Sports Associated, Interlace Video, Yoshamira Suzuki Road Racing Team and Keim.
He loved riding motorcycles, working with wood, and being outside. He loved to laugh and always enjoyed a good joke.
On July 22, 1978, he married Genivee (Jan) Springer. They had one child, a son, Kevin McManis. Both survive of the home.
He was preceded in death by his father Ray C. McManis.
Survivors include his wife and son of Manhattan; his mother, Erma McManis of Manhattan; his brother, Dennis McManis and his wife Linda of Bradenton, Fla.; his sister, Dianne Still and her husband Mitch of Palm Harbor, Fla.; numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, as well as many close friends.
Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 30, at the Carnahan-Garrison Cemetery south of Olsburg, with Pastor Kevin Larson officiating. Respect calls may be made anytime Tuesday at the Holmes-Pfeifley funeral Home in Riley, where the family will receive friends from 7 to 8 p.m., Tuesday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the McManis Family and may be sent to Mrs. Jan McManis at 5779 Elbo Ridge Drive, Manhattan, KS 66502.
Vaughn L. Murphy II
Vaughn L. Murphy II, 53, of Manhattan, died Feb. 13, 2004, in his home.
He was born Dec. 30, 1950, at Phillipsburg, the son of Martha Reddington Murphy and Vaughn L. Murphy. He grew up in Phillipsburg and Manhattan, where he attended local schools and was a 1969 graduate of Manhattan High School. He had also taken classes at area vocational schools.
He married Julie Mahloch on Dec. 20, 2001, in Manhattan. She survives of the home.
Mr. Murphy had been a longtime resident of Manhattan and worked for more than 20 years as a truck mechanic for Penske and Ryder Truck Lines.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Murphy is survived by a daughter, Michelle Warner of Manhattan; two step daughters, Kaysha Cooper of Marshfield, Mo., and Bridgette Polson of Manhattan; his mother, Martha Murphy of Manhattan; and one step grandson.
He was preceded in death by his father and one sister, Martha Hoover.
Cremation is planned. Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. on Tuesday in the Irvin-Parkview Funeral Home. Inurnment will be at a later date.
Shirley F. Neel (Schlegel)
Shirley F. Neel, age 57, of Wamego died Sunday March 1, 2009 at the Promise Regional Hospital, Hutchinson, Kansas.
She was born on August 6, 1951 in Manhattan, Kansas the daughter of William A. & Marjorie F. (Noll) Schlegel. She was a Clerk for the Topeka Post Office.
Shirley was united in marriage to James “Pat” Neel on April 15, 1968 in Manhattan, Kansas. This union was blessed with 18 children.
She loved being a mother, grandmother, wife and dear friend. Family was very important to Shirley and she loved providing for her “babies”. Her Catholic Faith was very near to her heart and she was a true follower of the Lord. Shirley showed her strength as she vigorously fought cancer for 6 years.
Shirley was preceded in death by her son: William Charles “Billy” Neel on July 3, 1969; her father: William in 1996 and her brother: Matthew in October 2008.
Survivors include her husband Pat of the home; her mother Marjorie Schlegel of Manhattan; 17 children: Jimmy Neel and his wife Kelly of Junction City, KS; Jeff Neel of Manhattan; Greg Neel of Wamego; Kristi Fouraker and her husband Jeff of Blair, NE; Kim Long and her husband Duke of Topeka, KS; Brandi Neel, Sean Neel and Brooke Smith and her husband Brad, all of Wamego; Heather Isbell and her husband Corey of Concordia, KS; Shane Neel and Erin Steele and her husband Joe, all of Wamego; Ashleigh Kohler and her husband Jonathan of Tonganoxie, KS.; Whitney Neel, Chelsie Neel, Shaeleigh Neel, Shamus Neel and Teagan Neel, all of Wamego. She is also survived by 2 brothers: Terry Schlegel of Manhattan, KS and Andrew Schlegel of Wamego, KS; a sister: Teresa McMillan of Home City, KS ; 22 grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, other family members and many friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday March 5, 2009 at the Seven Dolors Catholic Church, Manhattan with Father Joseph Popelka, Father John Pilcher and Father Carl Dekat officiating. Interment will follow in the Sunrise Cemetery, Manhattan, Kansas.
Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. with a Rosary Service at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday March 4, 2009 at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home 1616 Poyntz Ave., Manhattan, Kansas 66502.
Memorial contributions may be made in her name and left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, Manhattan, Kansas.
On-line condolences may be left for the family by clicking "send condolences" on this page.
Memorial Funds: Shirley Neel Memorial Fund
Mark Lawrence Norvell January 8, 1951 - June 4, 2024
Mark Lawrence Norvell was born on January 8, 1951, in Manhattan, Kansas, to Lawrence and Joy Norvell. He passed away suddenly on June 4, 2024. Mark grew up in Manhattan, KS, where he met his wife, Paula, in high school. He always said he knew she was the one as soon as “she walked into band with that French horn tucked under her arm,” and they were Pops Choir partners. They were married for 52 years and still acted like high school sweethearts. They both earned Bachelor’s degrees at Kansas State University, and Mark worked as a mechanical engineer until he retired.
After briefly living in New Orleans, Mark and Paula moved to Wichita, KS, where their first two children, Amy and Scott, were born. They then settled in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where they had their third daughter, Susannah, and spent the next 45 years. He and Paula were active in their beloved church community at First Methodist Church and in their Sunday School class, One In The Spirit. He was an avid recreational pilot and flew single engine aircraft in the Council Oak Senior Squadron of Civil Air Patrol, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the Oklahoma Airmen Flying Club. He had spent almost 2,000 hours in the cockpit.
In 2023, he and Paula embarked on a new adventure, moving to Burke, Virginia, to be closer to their grandkids. Mark and Paula were becoming active at Immanuel Bible Church and the Ambassadors ABF, and getting to know their Braddock Lake community. Mark was quickly making friends everywhere he went. He was just getting involved in the local Civil Air Patrol and Coast Guard Auxiliary and had taken some initial flights exploring his new part of the country.
Mark is survived by his wife, Paula; his three children and their spouses, Amy Tserenkova and husband Robert, Scott Norvell and wife Melanie Lahti, and Susannah Larson and husband Dave; and five grandchildren, Christopher and Michael Tserenkov, Henry Norvell, and Lucy and Jack Larson. He is also survived by his siblings Nancy Fruetel, Bruce Norvell, and Gary Norvell, their spouses David, Kay, and Colleen, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Mark had a gentle and kind spirit, and he had a great sense of humor. He was an amazing husband, dad, grandpa, brother, and friend. He gave us a glimpse of the Heavenly Father’s love through the way he cared about his family. Mark had a great appreciation for God’s creation, revealed in his curiosity about the world and his love of learning. He could fix anything. He loved Jesus, his family, flying, and walking the lake. He had a love for life and a twinkle in his eye until his last day. He will be desperately missed.
James J. Pauly Jr.
James J. Pauly Jr., 47, Emporia, died from cancer May 11, 1998, at his home.
He was born Oct. 15, 1950, at Manhattan. He married Judith M. Kearn on May 19, 1983 in Manhattan. He moved from Manhattan to Emporia in January 1985.
Survivors include his wife of the home; two daughters, Shylo Pauly and Regina Klein, both of Lawrence; and two grandchildren.
Memorial services will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday at Roberts-Blue-Barnet Chapel in Emporia.
Nick Penland
Rapid City – Nicholas Penland, 71, died peacefully on Saturday, November 26, 2022 at the Monument Health Lead-Deadwood Hospital in Deadwood.
Nick’s survivors are Greg (Ann) Penland of Rapid City, Janice (Paul) Hinman of Manhattan, KS, Nancy (Mike) Moss of Manhattan, KS, Aunt and Uncle Shirley and Leon Burlingame of Savannah, MO, sister in law Ann (Rev. Johathan) Frazier of Kansas City, MO, niece Lucy (Iain) Kells of Rapid City, Dr. Patrick (Katie) Penland of Cincinnati, OH, Charles and Quentin Penland of Kansas City, MO, Shawn Penland Moss of Witchita, KS, Evon (Ally) Penland Frazier of NY, Conner Penland Fraizier of Salt Lake, UT, and many close cousins in Missouri and friends everywhere he went.
Nick was preceded in death by his parents George E. Penland and Evelyn L. Penland of Manhattan, KS and brothers Mark E. Penland of Kanas City, KS and Darrel K. Penland of Milford, KS.
Jeri Reichle - August 13, 1951 - October 17, 2023 - Jeri was born on August 13, 1951 in Manhattan, Kansas, the son of Eldon E. Reichle and Ruby A. (Ekstrom) Reichle. He was a lifetime resident of Manhattan.
Jeri graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969. In May of 1973 he graduated from Kansas State University, Magna Cum Laude, with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration. Soon after graduation, Jeri went to work for the Riley County Police Department in payroll and accounting and later in corrections, for a total of 33 years. He returned to part-time work at the police department for an additional five years after his retirement.
Jeri was an active member of the First Lutheran Church in Manhattan, where he served as custodian and grounds keeper for many years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother John E. Reichle, and his brother-in-law Timothy Benson.
Jeri Reichle - August 13, 1951 - October 17, 2023 - Jeri is survived by his sister, Annalene Benson; two nephews and two nieces: Luke Benson (Cathryn), Sarah McNeal (Seth), Jesse Benson, and Angel Walrath (Robert); his 2 great-nephews, Kyle and Cody, and great niece, Selah; as well as his cousins and friends.
Barbara J. Risner (Pound)
Barbara Jo (Pound) Risner, of South Fayette, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, March 28, 2007, after a prolonged illness.
Barbara received her bachelor's and master's degrees from Kansas State University and taught preschool and kindergarten in public and private schools for many years in Kansas, Texas and Pennsylvania.
She was instrumental in founding Tender Shepherd Preschool at South Hills Bible Chapel and later taught kindergarten at Hillcrest Christian Academy, Bethel Park, for three years. Barbara was an active Christian who helped coordinate and teach in the Pioneer Club Program at her church, where she and her husband taught preschool Sunday school for many years.
Surviving are her husband of 23 years, Joel; daughters, Ashley Anne and Emily Elizabeth, and sisters, Loretta Ross and husband Richard, of Columbia, Mo., and Judy Hedeen and husband John, of Topeka, Kan., and their children and grandchildren.
Friends received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday in the Warchol Funeral Home Inc., 3060 Washington Pike, Bridgeville. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday in South Hills Bible Chapel, McMurray.
JEAN ANN (REYNARD) DORSEY
Jean Ann Dorsey, age 58, of Lake Quivira, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on April 14, 2010. She was surrounded by her loving family and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She was born in Manhattan, Kansas, the fifth child of Leon M. and Martha L. Reynard on November 4, 1951. She was preceded in death by her parents and two older brothers, Jim and John Reynard. Jean and her siblings grew up in the Reynard family restaurant business in Manhattan, and she continued her active involvement until Reynard's West was closed in 1986. Her background in the family business led her to a career in restaurant food sales in Topeka, first with Evco and then with Allen Foods, until she retired in 2003.
Jean graduated from Manhattan High School and attended Kansas State University. In 1969, she married Bob Snyder of Manhattan. During their years together they had two children, Sonya and Paul, and were divorced in 1976. In 1980, Jean met Jim Dorsey who she called the "love of her life." They married in 1981, and were privileged to have Jim's daughter Jennifer live with them from the start, joining Jean's daughter and son to form what would become the perfect blended family. Jean had a passion for every part of her life, but especially for her children and grandchildren.
Her boundless energy and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Among countless other memories, we recall her serving six times as the Easter Bunny for the annual Kansas Governor's Easter Egg Hunt in Topeka. Her grandchildren attended the big event and only recently learned that their "Mimi" was the Bunny. Jean is survived by her husband of nearly 29 years, Jim Dorsey, her daughter Sonya Disidore and husband Tony, her son Paul Snyder and wife Kim, her daughter Jennifer Hansen and husband Chris, her 5 beloved grandchildren, Parker, Gabriella and Amelia Disidore and Logan and Ava Hansen. She is also survived by her sister Janet Wright, and brothers Jerry and Jeff Reynard.
A celebration of Jean's life will be held at the Lake Quivira Clubhouse on Thursday, April 22, at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, we recommend contributions to Cross-Lines, 736 Shawnee Avenue, Kansas City, KS 66105, or another charity of your choice. The family extends special thanks to Dr. James Coster and all the other caring staff at the Kansas City Cancer Center. Also, to Misty Brown and others at KC Hospice for bringing peace to her final days. (Arrangements: www.kccremation.com.)
Steve Roche
Frank "Steve" Roche, 65 of Topeka, passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016.
He was born January 1, 1951, in Atchison County, Kansas, the son of Dwain and Rose (Wilderson) Roche. He was a 1969 graduate of Manhattan High School. He attended Kansas State University. He served inthe Navy during the Vietnam War.
Steve was employed by Jeffrey Energy Center/Westar Energy retiring in October 1, 2015.
Mr Roche was a member IBEW Local Union 226, Siloam Lodge No 225 AF&AM, Arab Shrine, Escorts Unit, American Legion Post No 400 and Legion Riders in Topeka. He is also a life member of the VFW in St. Mary's KS.
Steve married Susan Lynn Cunninham on December 23, 1972 in New Strawn, KS. She survices of the home. Other survivors include three children, Tara Kelly) Thompson, Hasting, NE, Brady (Mary) Roche, St. Mary's KS and Derek (Colleen) Roche, Delia, KS; gradchildren, Jayna Segio) Thompson, Mitchell Roche, David (Nichole) Brumbaugh, Jake and Nicole Seidl, Dakota Cox, DeeAnna Glotzbach, Lainey Weddle, Kara Jocobs, Marina Myers and Justine and Kyle Schiffbauer; serveral great-grandchildren; many cousins; and his great dane, Apollo.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, Greg and Michael Roche.
Steve enjoyed spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, traveling, antique stores, flea markets, collecting guns, coins, KC Chiefs Memorabilia, and possessed the gift to negotiate a great deal.
Honoring his request, Steve was cremated. A family gathering will be from 2-6 p.m., Monday, February 22, 2016 at the Arab Shrine, 1305 S Kansas Ave, Topeka. Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel, Topeka is assisting the family.
Ricky Eugene Selby
Ricky Selby, 54, of Manhattan, died Monday, October 10, 2005, at his residence following a brief illness.
He was born Aug. 1, 1951, in Manhattan, the son of George W. and Betty L. Selby. He was a graduate of Manhattan High School in 1969. Ricky enjoyed the outdoors and camping. He traveled extensively and had lived in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Calif., and New Orleans, La. He recently moved back to Manhattan in August of this year. He worked various jobs over his lifetime.
Ricky was preceded in death by his father in July of 1998.
He is survived by his mother Betty Selby and by one sister, Sandra Kuhn, both of The Woodlands, Texas; two brothers, Gary Selby of Topeka and Kenneth Selby and his wife Deanna of Manhattan; three nephews; one niece; and nine great nieces and nephews.
Cremation is planned with private family services. The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Ave., is handling the arrangements.
Trudy (Siddens) Hyden
Trudy Fay Hyden, 50, of Alton, Ill., died July 2, 2002 at her residence after an extended illness.
She was born Dec. 8, 1951, in Manhattan, the daughter of William F. and Greta F. Cragg Siddens, and had lived in Alton for 11 years.
Mrs. Hyden attended Manhattan schools and was an assistant chef at an Alton country club until her health forced her to retire.
Survivors include her husband Jack Hyden of Alton, Ill.; two daughters, Tracy Lynn Micrke of Palm Beach, Fla., and Rachel Gomez, Marietta, Ga.; five grandchildren; and her mother and stepfather Greta F. (Cragg) and Robert W. Jacobson, Manhattan.
Cremation is planned, with graveside services at 10:30 Monday at Pleasant Valley Cemetery southeast of Manhattan with Rev. Larry Fry officiating. Family and friends are invited to meet at 10 a.m. Monday at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home to form a procession to the cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Willian P. Speckman
Willian P. Speckman, 23, Colorado Springs, Colo., formerly of Manhattan, was killed Saturday, December 15, 1973, in a two-car accident near Colorado Springs.
Born Dec., 4, 1950, at St. Paul, Minn., he was a 1969 graduate of Manhattan High School and served in Vietnam from 1969 to 1971. He was a member of local VFW Post 1786.
Survivors include the widow, Mrs. Janice Speckman of the home; his father, Charles Speckman, 1500 Jarvis; four brothers, Robert C., Minneapolis, Minn., John W., Shawnee Mission, Gregory M., Colorady Springs, and Thomas @., Chicago, Ill.
Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. Thursday in St. Isadore Chapel with Father Paul Kramer officiating. Burial will be in the Lake Elbow Cemetery in Pottawatomie County. The Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. in Cowan-Edwards-Yorgensen Funeral Home.
John L. Stierwalt
John L. Stierwalt, 44, former Manhattan resident, died Saturday, December 14, 1996 at Austin, Texas.
He was born Dec. 21, 1951, at Manhattan and was a 1969 graduate of Manhattan High School. Following his high school graduation, he attended Kansas State University. Later in his life, he spent a summer at Dartmouth in the Tucks Executive Program.
Mr. Stierwalt was an entrepreneur and small business owner specializing in computer software and products. He lived a number of years in Ohio and later moved to Texas, where he resided in the Dallas area for many years prior to moving to Austin.
He married Nancy Peplow in 1971. They were later divorced. He married Wendy (Kissock) Formaini in 1993. She survives in Plano, Texas.
Other survivors include two sons, Christopher Stierwalt and Matthew Stierwalt, both of Syracuse, Ind.; his mother, Bess Stierwalt, Manhattan; two sisters, Pam Schmidt and Billie "Maria" Quinlan, Both of St. Louis, Mo.; two brothers, Dean Weixelman, Camdenton, Mo., and James R. Stierwalt Jr., Bend, Ore.
John David Stites
John David Stites, 32, 751 Canfield Drive, died this morning, November 14, 1984, at his home following an extended illness.
He was an associate producer for television commercials for the Muriel Bloom Co. in New York.
Mr Stites was born Dec. 28, 1951, at Kansas City, Kan. He grew up in Manhattan, and returned in June of this year, following seven years residence in New York.
He was a 1969 graduate of Manhattan High School, and a 1973 graduate of Kansas State University. He was a past president of the Beta Theta Phi fraternity, and a member of the First Christian Church.
Mr. Stites produced two plays; The Interviewer, and Without Apologies.
He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John F. Stites, 751 Canfield Drive; two brothers, Jerry R. Stites, Santa Monica, Calif., and Tim H. Stites, Nagaoka, Japan; his paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. O. R. Stites, Olathe; and his maternal grandmother, Mrs. Fern Hyten, Wellington.
Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at the Cowen-Edwards-Yorgensen Funeral home with the Rev. Ben Duerfeldt officiating. Burial will be in Sunset Cemetery.
Sandra Lynn (Taylor) Bernasek, 66, of Plano, Texas, died Sunday, July 29, 2018, at her home in Plano, surrounded by family. Sandra was born August 9, 1951 in Manhattan, Kansas.
She graduated from Manhattan High School, and attended Kansas State University, until moving to California after her marriage. She completed her bachelor’s degree at the University of California, Berkeley.
She married Steven Lynn Bernasek on June 5, 1971. Sandra and Steven made their home for 40 years in the Princeton, New Jersey area. Sandra earned her M.Ed. at Trenton State College in 1981. Sandy was a staff member and course leader for Landmark Education for over 30 years. She was a staff manager and trainer of staff in Landmark’s offices in New Jersey, New York, and Toronto, and led courses for the company in cities around North America, Europe, Israel, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Thailand. Sandy led programs that made a profound difference in people’s lives to more than 30,000 individuals in the course of her career with Landmark.
Sandy was the proud mother of two children, Lisa and Eric, a doting grandmother to four grandchildren, Adele, Margot, Uddhava, and Emlyn. Sandy was a beloved and loving wife and partner to Steve for 47 years. She had a beautiful smile, a beautiful singing voice, and a passion for life, that she shared with others through her own life’s work. Sandy loved the beach, she loved to travel, and she loved music and the theater.
Sandy was a tough, dedicated no-nonsense person, with a dry wit and a bit of a stubborn streak, especially in her stand for the success of her family and of the people with whom she worked. Sandra and Steven moved to Singapore in 2015, where Sandra was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, one of 10-15% of people diagnosed with lung cancer who have never smoked. Sandra died peacefully after dealing with this horrible disease with strength and grace for over two years.
She is survived by her parents, Dean and Shirley (Wickham) Taylor, of Manhattan, her husband Steven of Plano, her sister Christy Kimball of Manhattan, and her brothers Greg of Kansas City and Bryan of Bluffton, South Carolina. She is survived by her son Eric, of Laval, Quebec, and her daughter Lisa and husband Louis Le Pen, of Chandler’s Ford, England, and grandchildren Adele, Margot, and Emlyn Le Pen, of Chandler’s Ford and Uddhava Bernasek, of Laval; many cousins, nieces and nephews, and many friends in New Jersey, Kansas, Texas, Singapore and around the world.
Louis "Al" Alan Tunison
Louis Alan A. Tunison, 51, Westmoreland, died at his home March 28, 2003. Cause of death is unknown at this time.
Mr. Tunison was born April 3, 1951, in Westmoreland. He attended grade school and junior high school in Manhattan, and graduated in 1969 from Westmoreland High School.
He worked in construction, specializing in concrete work. He also served in the United States Navy for a brief time after the Vietnam War.
Survivors include his mother, "Billie" R. Tunison, Westmoreland; one sister, Lynda J. Walsh, Turlock, Calif.; a brother Rodney H. Tunison, Manhattan; two daughters, Holly Marie Tunison and Renea Christina Tunison, both of Colorado; one niece, and two nephews.
Graveside services will be at 2:30 p.m. Thursday at the Westmoreland City Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Stewart Funeral Chapel of Westmoreland.
Memorials are suggested to the Pawnee Mental Health Services, Bipolar Disorders, and may be left in care of the Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego, P.O. Box 48, Wamego, 66547.
Jerry Ukena
Gerald “Jerry” Earl Ukena, passed away on January 25th, 2022 at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan from COVID-19 complications, at the age of 70.
He was surrounded by his loving wife and children when the Lord came to take him home.
He was born May 16th, 1951 in Manhattan, KS. The proud son of Marvin E. and Lona Mae (Axelton) Ukena.
Jerry grew up in Manhattan and graduated from Manhattan High School in 1969. He then graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1981. He worked for McCall Pattern Company until his retirement in 2005. Jerry was always a humble man. Quiet by nature, smart as a whip, an all-around handyman and would drop everything to help his family. What he knew he wanted to teach, what he didn’t know he wanted to learn.
He was proud of where he came from, loved anything to do with maps, the land, and showing his wife, children and grandchildren our beautiful Country! He taught his children the great past time of baseball/softball, which the girls enjoyed immensely. Jerry became a Webelos Den Leader when his son Erik was starting his path in the Boy Scouts of America. He loved helping Erik nurture his passion for camping, nature, helping others and working with his hands. Erik earned his Eagle Scout and has gone on to be a pack leader. Jerry, with assistance of Erik, was able to guide his Grandson Craig to earn his Eagle Scout also.
He enjoyed being a part of “The Tea Party.” Being part of a group willing and able to talk about politics and the world with friends was a blessing.
He was married the love of his life, Catherine “Cathy” Mary (Eckart) at St. Bernards Catholic Church in Wamego, KS, in July of 1974. They were blessed with four girls and a boy.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Cathy, and by his children Brandy (Steve) Ukena-Bush of Manhattan, KS; Heather (Matt) Gilbert of Wamego, KS; Erik (Cristy) Ukena of St. George, KS; Carol Brooks of Manhattan, KS, and Jennifer Ukena of Manhattan, KS. Also, his Seven Grandchildren Craig, Haley, Madison, Sebastian, Thomas, Cody, and Cade. As well as four Great-Grandchildren, Kyler, Roland, Emry, and Treyton. Jerry was preceded in death by father in 1988, his mother in 2022, and his older brother Steven Ukena in 2016
Greg Wells
Greg(ory) Douglas Wells, age 71of Manhattan, died peacefully with his children by his side on Friday, November 25, 2022, at Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, Kansas.
Greg was born on January 4, 1951, in Manhattan, KS to Guy Justin and Leota Mae (Pascal) Wells. He joined his sister Barb at home in Manhattan where he lived until graduating high school in 1969. After graduating, Greg remained involved with his classmates with his participation in the Class of '69 reunion committee. He helped plan many reunions up to their most recent 50th. While growing up he was an active member of the local boy scout troop, where he earned Eagle Scout status. He was also a member of the Manhattan High School football team and choir.
He met his future wife Denise Ann Dixon in middle school through the United Methodist Church in Manhattan. On December 20, 1970, they were joined in marriage there as well. After marriage, he and Denise were at home in Emporia, KS, where he attended the Emporia State Teacher’s College and was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon.
In 1977, Greg and Denise joined his sister Barb and her husband Larry in the management of the Tiawah Hills Dude Ranch, in Claremore, Oklahoma. His love of horses was well suited to, the job. In 1980, his daughter, Samantha Kate was born, soon followed by Sean Alan in 1981. The family moved back to Manhattan, KS in 1982. Greg resided with his wife Denise and children at the house on North 48th Street until its loss to a grass fire in 2018.
Greg worked as an office specialist in the KSU Division of Biology for 30+ years. While at K-State he led many 1st grade field trips through the building learning about the natural history and wildlife of the area. Greg was an active adult leader of the Riley, KS Boy Scout troop and enjoyed teaching the boys and young men some of the finer arts of camping skills.
To some, Greg was known (or unknown) as Santa Claus for the Sedalia Church Christmas program or the Santa Paws fundraiser for the Humane Society held and the Candlewood Veterinary Clinic. To others, he was the “Voice of the Falcons”, announcing many different sports events over the years. He joked that once he announced an entire football game without a microphone. His voice was ‘booming’ enough to do just that – you always knew when Greg had entered the room. What many don’t know, is that he managed to do all of that while also caring for his wife, Denise through her extended illness. He was a devoted husband who’s love and commitment to his wife never wavered. He was also the most supportive, caring, fun, and loving father and grandfather.
In his later years, Greg’s mobility had been greatly reduced to due an injury from a fall in 2014. After the fire, Greg resided in Redbud Estates, where he remained until just recently. In this time, he enjoyed the continuation of his lifelong love of trivia and crossword puzzles (in pen) and watching football. If you visited Greg, you could almost guarantee that a game or program relating to football would be on.
He is survived by his children, Samantha Nott and her husband Eric of Shawnee, KS, and Sean Wells and his wife Christina of Margaretville, NY; his sister Barb(ara) Turnbull and her husband Larry of Downingtown, PA; two grandchildren, Brayden Wells and Dixon Nott. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews; mother-in-law, Carol Dixon, and sisters-in-law, Madelyn Short (Terry), and Cheri Vines (Billie).
He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Denise Ann Dixon in 2002; his parents; father-in-law, Lyle Dixon, and nephew, Brian Hood.
Michael Leroy Wilhoite
Michael Leroy Wilhoite was born on October 12, 1951, in Manhattan, Kansas, and on November 4, 2023, he completed his earthly journey in Kansas City, Kansas. He was one of eight children born to Jesse William Wilhoite and Loretta Mae Jackson, both of whom preceded him in death.
Michael's life was one marked by dedication, versatility, and a deep love for his family. He graduated from high school in Manhattan and furthered his education at Kansas State University. For the majority of his working career, he served as the Maintenance Facility Supervisor for the Manhattan Housing Authority, showcasing his strong work ethic and diverse skill set.
Michael was a true Jack of all trades, with the ability to tackle any challenge he set his mind to. In his leisure time, he found joy in fishing, hunting, golfing, and cooking, but nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with his family. He held his wife, Evelyn Benita (Lewis) Wilhoite, in the highest esteem, took immense pride in his children, Marcus L. Wilhoite and his wife, Christi, and Marcquia E. Thorpe and her husband, Jason. He cherished every moment spent with his four beloved grandchildren: Treauja, Cierra, Bryan, and Anthony.
In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his brother, Jesse W. Wilhoite, Jr., and sister, Victoria Brooks. He is survived by his adoring wife, Evelyn, his children, Marcus and Marcquia, their families, and his loving siblings: two brothers, Gregory Wilhoite and wife Tamara, and Ernest Wilhoite; three sisters, Paula Fuller and husband Henry, Lori Powell and husband Alton, and Jacqueline Norman.
Sharon Elaine (Wilkerson) Douthit, age 72, a longtime area resident, died September 27, 2023, at the Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice House. She was born March 28, 1951, in Fredericktown, Missouri, the daughter of Leroy Glen and Janelle (Sanders) Wilkinson.
Sharon graduated from Manhattan High School with the Class of 1969.
She worked at Monte’s First Call cleaners on Ogden for many years. She later worked at Walmart in Junction City for several years and stopped working when Larry got sick to take care of him.
Sharon was devoted to her family and loved spoiling her grandchildren.
She was a member of the Ogden American Legion Auxiliary and enjoyed playing Bingo.
She was married to Larry Delane Douthit, Sr., on September 12, 1974, in Manhattan. Larry preceded her in death on September 17, 2015. She was also preceded in death by her son Eddie Douthit and by her sister Renee Warren.
Survivors include her children: Nikki Crabtree (Kirk) of Ogden, KS, and Sean Douthit (Tish) of Salisbury, NC; grandchildren: Madison, Kennedy, Josh, Kaleb and Lucus; step-son Delane Douthit (Ronda) and family of Junction City, KS; Eddie’s two children; and four siblings: Mike Wilkinson, Jana Palmisciano, Tammy Selvidge and Timmy Wilkinson.
Nancy Willard, age 67, of Manhattan, died Saturday November 24, 2018 in Manhattan She was born on October 26, 1951 in Manhattan, the daughter of Charles and Betty Jean (Elder) Willard.
Charles M. Wienstroer
LAS VEGAS, NEV. - Word has been received of the death of former Manhattan resident Charles M. Wienstroer, 41, Las Vegas, on April 8, 1993 after an extended illness.
Mr. Wienstroer was a 1969 graduate of Manhattan High School and had attended Seven Dolors Grade School.
He was a member of Severn Dolors Catholic Church.
He recently worked in restaurant management. Survivors include two brothers, Thomas L. Wienstroer and Theodore E. Wienstroer, both of Kansas City, Mo.
Private family services are pending, to be held in Las Vegas.
Bill Woodward
William Ben Woodward, “Bill,” age 70, passed peacefully on Tuesday, August 31st, in Reno, Nevada, surrounded by his loving family.
Bill was born in Norton, Kansas on July 14, 1951, to Philip D. and Billie Lea Woodward. He leaves behind his mother, Billie, his sister, Susie Baxter, his loving wife of 48 years, Mary Ann Woodward; and his three children, Jenni Runyan, Lindsay Dunn and Taylor Woodward, along with his beloved son-in-laws, Jeff Runyan and Brad Dunn and daughter-in-law, Amy Woodward. He was also the proud grandfather of Remington and London Runyan and Scarlett and Chandler Dunn.
Bill spent his childhood in Manhattan, Kansas. He graduated from Manhattan High School and attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, graduating in 1973 with a B.B.A. He met his wife, Mary Ann, at SMU and upon graduation, they married and moved to San Francisco where Bill attended UC Berkeley for an M.B.A. Bill’s career began in Manhattan, Kansas, joining his father’s clothing business, Woody’s. Bill then moved his family to Columbia, Missouri, to run the Coors Distributorship where they remained for the next 20 years.Bill’s passions in life were his family, soccer, golf, hiking and the outdoors. He was compassionate and caring, making friends wherever he went. He will be missed by all who crossed his path.