WICHMAN, LEONA

CLAY CENTER- Leona Wichman, 88, died Friday, Dec. 8, 2006, at Clay County Medical Center, Clay Center, Kansas.

Mrs. Wichman was born April 3, 1918, at Lasita, the daughter of Mackie and Bertha (Hazen) Reed.

She was raised in the Bodieville, *(Bodaville ) community near Green. She married George G. Wichman in 1935. He preceded her in death in 1981. She was also preceded in death by a daughter, * Peggy Currie, five sisters and two brothers.

Survivors include two sons, Robert Wichman and wife Patricia, of Clay Center, Ronald Wichman ~and wife Donna of Clay Center and Jim Wichman and wife Patsy of Mount Pleasant, Tex.; two daughters, Betty Nail and husband Jim. of Mesa, Ariz. And Mary Babcock of Cairo, Mo.; one son-in-law, Tom Goff of Santa Fe, N.M.; 16 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and 12 great-great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 1 :30 p.m. Wednesday at the Neill-Schwensen-Rook Chapel in Clay Center with the Rev. James Byers officiating. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

Friends may call from 3 to .8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the Leona Wichman Memorial Fund to designated later by the family.

LEONA WICHMAN CORRECTION

* Due to incorrect information provided to the Dispatch there was an error in the notice for Leona Wichman. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Peggy Goff.

Note: For the sake of genealogical history. The Jim Wichman and Mary Babcock mentioned in the obituary here, were the children of Daniel & Leone Reed Wichman. Daniel and Leone died in 1955, and George, Daniel's brother and Leona raised Jim and Mary. George and Leona raised Jim and Mary as their own. As was mentioned at Leona's service, there were no step- children, step-grandchildren, or step-great grandchildren. Leona always treated them all as her own.

Transcribed from a newspaper clipping Clay Center Dispatch. Verlin Wichman

* Bodaville is the correct name. Many times Bodieville is used incorrectly with reference to Bodaville, Kansas. From volume I of Kansas: a cyclopedia of state history, Bodaville, a rural hamlet in Riley county, is near the northern line, about 35 miles from Manhattan, the county seat, and about 12 miles from Barnes, Washington county, from which place it receives mail. Lasita, on the Rock Island R. R. 10 miles south is the nearest railway station. The population in 1910 was 50. (Clay Center Dispatch, Monday, December 11, 2006, Submitted by Verlin Wichman)

SCHEER, FRITZ

FOUND DEAD

Fritz Scheer of Goshen township was in the city on Monday last doing business and towards night loaded his wagon with lumber, but did not leave till between 7 and 8 o'clock p.m. The following morning his team was discovered by Mr. Richard Cook, about two miles from town in a ravine, into which it had been driven or had turned of its own accord. The wagon was overturned and Scheer was found dead under the lumber upon which lay the wagon box, the team being held by the lines that had been caught by some part of the wagon. The remains were brought to the city and J.W. Miller, J.P., Acting Coroner and a jury held an inquest resulting as follows:

STATE OF KANSAS, COUNTY OF CLAY } ss

An Inquistion holden at Clay Center township, in Clay County, on the 7th day of December, A.D. 1880, before J.W. Miller, a Justice of the Peace in and for the township of Clay Center, in said County and State, acting as Coroner of said County for the time being, on the body of one, Fritz Scheer, there lying dead by the persons whose names are hereto subscribed. The said jurors upon their oaths do say that the said Fritz Scheer did, on the night of the 6th. day of December, A.D. 1880, come to his death by the accidental upsetting of a two horse wagon with two horses attached thereto.

In testimony whereof, the said jurors have hereunto set their hands the day and year aforesaid.

Geo. W. Martin, F.C. Jewett, Geo. Morgan, P.P. Kehoe, Richard Cook, Samuel Upham.

Attest: J.W. Miller, J.P. and Acting Coroner. (The Localist, Dec. 9, 1880, pg. 2, submitted by Ruth I. Stude)

SCHEER, FRED

FRED. SCHEER, a farmer who lived a few miles north east of town, was found dead by the road side Tuesday morning. He had been in town the evening before, purchased a load of lumber and a load of something more costly than lumber and a great deal more difficult to carry. His remains were found beneath the load of lumber, and the team with the over turned wagon only a few rods distant showed plainly that it had been driven some distance with sight-less eyes and nerveless hands. (Clay County Dispatch, Dec. 9, 1880, pg. 5, submitted by Ruth I. Stude)

THORNTON, JOHN

Dies At His Home in Fairbury After an Illness of Twelve Years

After an illness lasting for twelve years, John Thornton died at his home, 926 B street, Fairbury, Nebraska, on Sunday night, December 29, at 11:30, aged 64 years, 3 months and 18 days. His death was caused by diabetes. He came to Fairbury in 1895 and with his son went into the hardware business under the name of John Thornton & Son. The business is being conducted by his son, Percy Thornton, on the south side of the square.

Mr. Thornton was a native of England, having been born in Devonshire, September 11, 1848. He was married in England, Nov. 11, 1871, to Elizabeth Pyle and six children were born to them, namely, Percy, Robert, Lyndon, and Cecile, Fairbury, and Mrs. Lillian Durr, Troy, Kans., and Mrs. Flossie Hobbs, Lincoln. Two children died in childhood. There are also five brothers and six sisters.

Mr. Thornton’s wife died in 1894 and on April 11, 1897 he was married to Mrs. Ida Appleton, who survives him.

From 1878 to 1885, the family lived on a farm near Clay Center, Kans., and from 1885 to 1895, Mr. Thornton was in the hardware business at Green, Kans. Mr. Thornton was a member of the established church of England but had no church connections in America. He was a member of the Masonic order. At one time he was a city councilman in Fairbury and was an influential member of society and active in all public affairs until illness kept him confined to his home.

The funeral was held at the home at 3:00 p.m., December 31, services being conducted by Rev. Gilbert of the M.E. church. The body was taken to Clay Center, Kans., for burial. (The Fairbury Journal, Friday, January 3, 1913, submitted by Kristin Vaughn)

BREDBERG, MAY

Mrs. May Bredberg, 43 years old, Clay Center, Kas., died last night at the Swedish Hospital. (The Kansas City Times, May 25, 1919, page 13, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

BROUGHTON, W. S.

Clay Center, Kan., Jan. 26, Mr. W. S. Broughton who was hurt in the Rock Island wreck here Sunday morning died this morning of his injuries. An operation was performed yesterday in the hope of saving his life but his injuries were too severe. He has been a resident of this county for several years and has been prominently connected with the grain and cattle interest in this section. His body will be taken east tomorrow for interment. (The Kansas Semi Weekly Capital, January 28, 1898, page 2, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

CLARK, JOHN HAWKINS

Atchison, Kan., Dec. 28 - John Hawkins Clark, died yesterday on his homestead at Clay Center, Clay County, Kansas.

Mr. Clark was one of the very first settlers in northern Kansas, having come here in the early fifties with his family from Cincinnati. He was the father-in-law of the late F. G. Adams, secretary of the State Historical Society, and also of Frank A. Root, the well known newspaper man and writer.

Mr. Clark possess a rare literary ability himself, but he chose to work at his trade, which was that of a plasterer. He was one of the first who went overland to California at the opening of the gold fields there in '48 and '49. This journey was filled with remarkable incidents and adventure, and upon his return Mr. Clark, wrote an account of the trip which was published in serial from a few years ago. (The Kansas Semi-Weekly Capital, January 1, 1901, page 3, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

DONOVAN, E. P.

Missouri City, Mo. - Sept. 2 - E. P. Donovan, an early settler and public administrator of Clay county, died of typhoid fever this morning after a lingering illness. Mr. Donovan came to this county in the '50s from Kentucky. He leaves five children: Mrs. L. A. Bell and Mrs. E. C. Bell of Liberty; Mrs. Edna Henry of Kansas City; Edward Donovan of Kansas City and James Donovan of Wadena, Minn. (The Kansas City Star, September 2, 1903, page 11, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

O'ROURKE, EDWARD

Edward O'Rourke, a retired farmer of Clay Center, Kas., died late Saturday night at the General Hospital from injuries received a few hours earlier when he fell down a stairway in the St. Louis Hotel, 1530 Geneseo Street. He was 69 years old.

Mr. O'Rourke is survived by a daughter, Mrs. S. E. Peugh, Clay Center, with whom he made his home, and three sons, John O'Rourke, New York, Edward O'Rourke, with the army in France, and Earl O'Rourke, Army City, Kas. The body will be at Quirk & Tobin's Funeral Lodge until 9:30 o'clock this morning, when it will be taken to Clay Center for burial. (The Kansas City Times, June 10, 1918, page 2, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

REMINGTON, JOHN P.

Clay Center, Kas., Dec. 10 - John P. Remington, 90 years old, one of the earliest settlers of Clay County, died at his country home south of Clay Center yesterday. In the early days the Remington home was a landmark for this section of the state. A few years ago Mr. and Mrs. Remington celebrated their sixtieth wedding anniversary. Mrs. Remington died shortly after. (Kansas City Times, December 10, 1919, page 2, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

SKINNER, LIVANA F.

Funeral services for Mrs. Livana F. Skinner, who died Sunday at her home, 2423 East Twelfth street, are to be held at 9 o'clock this morning at the home. Burial is to be in Clay Center, Kas. (The Kansas City Times, May 11, 1909, page 4, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

TRIVETT, S. MRS.

Clay Center, Kas., June 1 - Mrs. S. Trivett, a pioneer of Clay Center, died last night. Mr. and Mrs. Trivett were married at Jefferson, North Carolina in September 1849. Mr. Trivett is still living. He was a Union man in North Carolina in the Civil War. (The Kansas City Star, June 1, 1920, page 2, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

VINCENT, W. D.

Clay Center, Kas., Feb. 27 - Ex-Congressman W. D. Vincent of Clay Center, died this morning in a hospital in St. Louis, where he had undergone an operation for throat trouble.

Mr. Vincent represented the fifth Kansas district in congress in the 90's, having been elected by the Populists. He defeated W. A. Calderhead of Marysville, and later was defeated in turn by Calderhead, who then served a number of terms.

Mr. Vincent was the father-in-law of William Hirsh, editor and leader of farm movements of Columbia, Mo. (Kansas City Star, February 27, 1922, page 4, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

WELLINGTON, J. B.

J. B. Wellington was shot by D. Stewart at Clay Center, Kansas on the 12th inst. (Owyhee Avalanche, Idaho, June 22, 1889, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

WILLIAMS, FRANK L.

Clay Center, Kas. July 27 - Frank L. Williams, a widely known attorney of Clay Center and this section of Kansas, died unexpectedly this afternoon in a Clay Center store, where had stopped to summon a doctor. Mr. Williams had introduced the speaker at a Henry Allen meeting in the court house square in Clay Center. He sat upon the platform while the speaker was talking. Persons in the audience noticed he appeared ill at ease. He got up, took his hat and walked across the street to the clothing store and asked for a doctor. Death, however, came to him before the doctor arrived.

Mr. Williams was 59 years old. He had lived in Clay Center since the early '80s, and had always been active in politics and civic affairs. He was often mentioned as a candidate for Congress, but refused to run. He served as private secretary to Governor Hoch. Of recent years he has devoted himself to his large law practice.

Mr. Williams is survived by his widow, a daughter, Mrs. Bellows, living in Canada; a son, Josiah Williams, now with a marine band in France and a daughter Miss Ruth, at home. (Kansas City Star, July 28, 1918, page 3B, transcribed & submitted by Peggy Thompson)

AXTELL, H. O.

Clay Center, Kas., March 20 - H. O. Axtell, one of the most widely known merchants of Clay Center, a member of the firm of Robinson & Axtell, died yesterday at Hot Springs, Ark., where he had gone for his health. Funeral services probably will be held here Sunday. (The Kansas City Star, March 20, 1908, Page 3, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

BURRELL, SAMUEL P.

Samuel P. Burrell, an old resident of Clay County, Kas., who died this week is reported to have been a "friend of James G. Blaine and Roscoe Conkling." It is interred that neither of those statesmen suspected Mr. Burrell's friendship for the other. (The Kansas City Star, August 25, 1904, page 6, transcribed by Peggy Thompson)

COLEMAN, CURTIS C.

Clay Center, Kas., March 4 - C. C. Coleman, ex-attorney general of Kansas, died this morning at 6 o'clock at his home in this city after an illness of about nine months. Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock and will be conducted by the grand commander of the Knights Templars of Kansas, with other Masonic bodies in attendance. He will be buried in the Clay Center Cemetery.

Curtis C. Coleman went to Clay Center from Boone County, Kentucky, when he was 19 years old. He was county attorney of Clay County twice and was attorney general of the state from 1902 to 1906. It was while he held that position that an ollster suit was brought against Mayor W. W. Roso of Kansas City on the ground that he was permitting violation of the stat prohibitory laws. Rose was ousted and when he appealed for vindication by re-election and got it, the attorney general brought proceedings against him for contempt in the state supreme court. The United States Supreme Court upon appeal, upheld Coleman. The mayor was fined $1,000 for contempt and not allowed to hold the office any longer.

Mr. Coleman was a Mason and a Knight Templar. In 1897 he was grandmaster of the Masons in Kansas. He was prelate of the commandery of Knights Templars in Clay Center. He is survived by a widow, two daughters, Miss Katherine and Miss Virginia Coleman, and a son, J. P. Coleman, who is an assistant in the attorney general's office in Topeka. After his term as an attorney general expired in 1906. Mr. Coleman practiced law in Clay Center until he became dangerously ill last summer. (The Kansas City Star, March 4, 1911, page 3, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

FLETCHER, W. H. CAPT.

Clay Center, Kas., March 5, Capt. W. H. Fletcher, a resident of Clay County for nearly fifty years, died suddenly last night at his home here. Mr. Fletcher was a captain in the Union army in the Civil War. He came to Clay County immediately after its close and has lived here ever since. He took a most active part in Republican politics in this district, being county chairman in several campaigns. He was police judge of Clay Center when he died. He was 75 years old. (The Kansas City Star, March 5, 1913, page 2, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

HANNA, JOHN

Clay Center, Kas., March 28 - John Hanna, father of former Lieutenant Governor David Hanna and of George W. Hanna of Clay Center, president of the Kansas State Bankers' Association, died today at his home in Clay Center. He was 84 years old last Monday. He was one of the early settlers of this county. (The Kansas City Star, March 28, 1919, page 2, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

HARTMAN, WILLIAM C.

Clay Center, Kas., July 27 - William C. Hartman of this city died last night of paralysis. He was born in Germany sixty-six years ago. He came to this country when very young. He lost a fortune in the Chicago fire. He was a pioneer in this part of the country. (The Kansas City Star, July 27, 1905, page 12, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

KEHOE, P. P.

Clay Center, Kas., Feb. 22 - P. P. Kehoe, cashier of the Citizens State bank, one of the oldest settlers of Clay Center and one of the most prominent citizens of this city, died early this morning. (The Kansas City Star, February 22, 1906, page 4, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

The funeral of P. P. Kehoe of Clay Center, Kas., who died Thursday, was held there this morning. All the business houses were closed during the services. Mr. Kehoe was an old settler and cashier of the Clay Center Citizens State Bank. (The Kansas City Star, February 24, 1906, page 1, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

LOHMANN, GEORGE

George Lohmann, the six year old son of George H. Lohmann, died early this morning at his fathers home, 1115 East Fortieth Street. He is survived by his parents. Burial is in Clay Center, Kas. (The Kansas City Star, August 1, 1914, page 2, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

MYERS, D. H.

Clay Center, Kas., March 13 - D. H. Myers, president of the First National Bank of Clay Center, died here early this morning after an illness of about a year. He was 83 years old.

Mr. Myers was reputed to be a millionaire. He came to Clay County before the Civil War, having been one of the earliest settlers here. He was always interested in cattle in which business the foundation of his fortune was laid. He was the father of State Senator W. H. Myers of the Clay-Dickinson District. The funeral probably will be Monday. (The Kansas City Times, March 13, 1920)

SACHS, L.

Clay Center, Kas., Oct. 5 - L. Sachs, a merchant of Clay Center and a citizen of this city for twenty-five years, died this morning in a hospital in Philadelphia where he recently went for treatment. Mr. Sachs was a veteran of the France-Prussian war, but had lived in the United States ever since that time. (The Kansas City Star, October 3, 1906, page 1, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

SELTS, BENJAMIN

Clay Center, Kas., Oct. 19 - Benjamin Selts died this morning after a lingering illness of some weeks. Selts came to Clay Center before the railroad was built through here when the county was nearly all prairie. Shortly after the war he built the first hotel, known as the Selts house, which he conducted for a number of years. Few men at that time were better known in this part of Kansas than he. He discontinued his hotel in the early '80s. (The Kansas City Star, October 19, 1903, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

SPURRIER, ROLIN P.

Mr. Rolin P. Spurrier, another old settler, died this morning after a short but severe illness. Last week an operation was performed and it was hoped would result successfully, but he sank rapidly yesterday. The deceased had a large acquaintances in this and adjoining counties, having served for several years as president of the Old Settlers' Reunion, an organization embracing Clay, Riley and Washington Counties. (The Kansas Semi-Weekly Capital, December 20, 1898, page 7, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

TOMLINSON, JOSEPH

Clay Center, Kan., Dec. 19 - Clay County has just lost two of its oldest settlers by death. Mr. Joseph Tomlinson, residing five miles south of this city fell from a load of straw on his farm last Saturday and broke his neck. He had lived in this county a great many years and was highly respected by all who knew him. The funeral took place today. (The Kansas Semi Weekly Capital, December 20, 1898, page 7, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

WILLIAMS, W. C.

Clay Center, Kas., - W. C. Williams, an old settler of Clay County, prominent in G. A. R. circles for years, died suddenly Wednesday while mowing his lawn. He was commander of the Clay Center Post of the G. A. R. (The Weekly Kansas City Star, October 8, 1919, page 2, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

WILLIAMSON, EARL

Earl Williams, 40 years old, of Clay Center, Kas., died yesterday at the Research Hospital following a two weeks' illness. Mr. Williamson was secretary and treasurer of the Williamson Milling Company of Clay Center. Beside his widow and one small son, he leaves three brothers, F. L. Williamson, 5720 High Drive; E. P. Williamson, Galesburg, Ill., and J. H. Williamson, Norfolk, Neb., and one sister, Miss Amanda Williamson, Galesburg, Ill. Burial will be in Clay Center Wednesday. (The Kansas City Times, April 9, 1918, page 6, submitted by Peggy Thompson)

HANSEN, EDITH (MRS. ANDREW)

Obit: Mrs. Andrew Hansen, October 26, 1888-April 18, 1969

Mrs. Andrew (Edith) Hansen, 80 died at the Clay County Hospital Friday.

She was born Oct. 26, 1888 and was adopted at the age of six weeks by Mr. and Mrs. Frank Gay of Clay Center.
On Sept. 1, 1920 she was united in marriage with Andrew Hansen. They lived in Allenspark, Colo., for a short time before moving to Clay Center in 1924.

She was a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, the American Legion Auxiliary, the Auxiliary to the World War I Barracks, Navy Mothers and for years was a Red Cross Volunteer (Gray Lady) at the local hospital.

Her survivors are her husband Andrew of the home at 639 Clarke St.; a son, Frank Andrew Hansen of Baltimore, Md.; two daughters, Mrs. Dick (Mary Gay) Baker, Boulder, Colo., and Mrs. Harry (Lillian Martha) Howell of Atlanta, Ga.; a sister, Mrs. L. P. Wylie, Clay Center; five grandchildren, Mary Edith and Monica DeWeese, Boulder, Colo., Valerie, Johnnie and Bobby Howell of Atlanta, Ga.

The funeral service will be held Monday morning at 11 o’clock in St. Paul’s Episcopal church, with the Ref. Earl O. Minturn officiating. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Neil Schwensen Funeral Home Sunday afternoon from 3:30 until 5. (Clay Center Dispatch, Submitted by Edie DeWeese)

GAY, FRANK V.

Obit: Frank V. Gay—1849-1924

The sad word was conveyed to Mrs. F. V. Gay Thursday morning, February 14th, that Mr. Gay had been found dead in bed at the Lipton Hotel at Downs, Kan. Only a day or two before Mr. Gay, seemingly in his usual good health, had left home on one of his business trips. The night before he had stopped at the hotel at Downs, operated by C. W. Tankersley, and returned the next evening, stating that he was unwell, requesting that a physician be called, which was done. The physician came and diagnosed his illness as neuralgia of the heart, and upon treating him, Mr. Gay said that the pain had disappeared and that he felt so much better, that after a night’s rest he would be able to attend to his business and asked that he be called at 7 o’clock the next morning. It was suggested by the physician that some one remain with him during the night, but Mr. Gay felt so much better that he declined having anyone.

At midnight the night clerk went to his room and talked a few moments to Mr. Gay, and found him resting comfortably. Later he went again and as Mr. Gay seemed to be asleep he did not investigate closely until toward morning. Having gone again he observed Mr. Gay still lying as he was on his previous visit, then he found him dead, and he probably was dead the second time he visited the room.

And so it is that often death comes quickly and silently, and in the language of the poet, “’Tis the wink of an eye; ‘tis a draught of a breath from the blossom of health to the paleness of death.”

A telephone message from Mrs. C. W. Tankersley to Warren Wixom conveyed the news of Mr. Gay’s death to Clay Center and Mr. and Mrs. A. A. Wixom went to the home to tell Mrs. Gay and Miss Lillian of Mr. Gay’s passing.

Frank V. Gay was born in 1849, in Hillsdale county, Michigan, and was nearing his 75th birthday. He was married to Mary Monroe [Munro] June 29, 1869, in the state of Michigan [Jonesville]. Mr. and Mrs. Gay never had any children of their own, but out of the goodness of their hearts they have adopted four girls, giving them the same love and care they would have given to their own. Of these adopted children two have died, leaving Lillian at home and Mrs. Edith Hansen of Longmont, Colo. There are also a brother and sister of Mr. Gay living on the Pacific coast and together with his wife and adopted daughters who are left to mourn his death and their great loss.

Mr. and Mrs. Gay had lived in Clay Center about forty-five years. They would have journeyed life’s pathway together 54 years next June. After coming here Mr. Gay became the manager of the Western Lumber Co., doing business in Clay Center. Subsequently he was employed by Wickstrum & Swenson, having charge of their insurance business. He then became state agent for the Home Insurance Co., which position he held for thirty years or more. During all of these years he was held in high regard and esteem by the company because of his faithfulness, his energy and skill as a representative insurance man. His duties took him to every part of the state and often the company sent him to neighboring states to adjust losses, knowing that in his hands the company’s interests would be fully protected.

He had grown old in its service and although he had not lost any of his interest or enthusiasm for his chosen work, yet he did not possess the vigor of his youth. He longed for more leisure and an opportunity to be more constantly with his family, to whom he was very devoted. With pleasure he looked forward to July next, for at that time, under the rules of his company, he could retire upon a liberal pension, but he had no thought of wholly giving up his work, and the company had informed him that he might devote as much or as little of his time to its interests as suited him best. Although he did not realize his fondest hopes, still he had the pleasing satisfaction of duties well done, and of having the implicit faith of his company in him, which in themselves were a rich reward to any man. At home he was highly regarded by his fellow citizens as a friend, as an acquaintance and as a successful business man.

The friends of Mr. Gay were many; he was a genial, friendly soul; he took delight in doing kindly things; he never intentionally harmed anyone or was indifferent to the welfare of those around him. He has always been the mainstay in the St. Paul’s Episcopal church of this city, not only in a financial way but in real service, and now that death has removed him from their midst it will be difficult to find anyone who can take his place. His task is finished and although he will return no more to his family as of yore, he has left it a legacy that is beyond price.

His funeral services were held Sunday at the St. Paul’s Episcopal church, of which he was a member, the Arch Deacon George Christian of Manhattan officiating. At the grave the Masonic order, to which he belonged, consigned him to rest, according to the rites of that order. A quartet composed of Mesdames A. C. Humfeld, P. D. Hammel, W. H. Peckham and J. G. Grimison, sang for this service. The Episcopal choir furnished fitting musical selections to conform with the church ceremony which was very impressive. Every tribute of love and esteem possible was paid Mr. Gay. The floral offerings were profuse and beautiful and the Episcopal church was far too small to accommodate the multitude of friends who came to the funeral. As pall bearers T. D. Hinshaw, H. J. Clevenger, R. C. McDowell, Floyd Schultz, Emil Kratochvil and Floyd Shoaf performed their last duty to their brother Mason, who now sleeps in Greenwood Cemetery. (Clay Center Dispatch, Submitted by Edie DeWeese)

ROTHMAN, REGINA

Mrs. Regina Rothman died very suddenly at her home in Clay Center last Monday. Mrs. Rothman went to Clay County in 1862 and had lived there continuously since. She was 70 years old. (Topeka Weekly Capital, June 28, 1894, page 5)

SELTS, SADIE (MRS. HENRY W.)

One of Clay Center's distinguished and beloved women passed from this life early in the morning of Wednesday, Jan. 15, 1958, when Mrs. Henry W. Selts died. Her death occurred at the Clay County Hospital, where she had been a patient since Sept. 28, 1957, following a stroke of paralysis. Mr. Selts died Feb. 17, 1942.

Mrs. Selts had an interesting life of 92 years, ... . Born in Hereford, England, Oct. 12, 1865, she was the daughter of Sayce and Sarah Eckley Price. She was christened Sarah Ann Price, but was affectionately known as Sadie. Coming to the United States as a young woman of 19, she first made her home with the George Morgan family in Clay Center.

She learned the millinery art in the shop of Mrs. Ida Selts, later opening a millinery store in Clay Center for a number of years.

Following the marriage of Henry W. Selts and Miss Sadie Price, Feb. 7, 1911, they established their home in Clay Center, ... .

Mrs. Selts had long been a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, and was a member of the Clay Center Library Club. ... .

Nearest survivng relatives are nieces and nephews of Mr. Selts, including Mrs. John Reid and family of Woodville, Tex., Mrs. Donald Smith and daughter, Stuart, of Kerrville, Tex., J. S. Smith and wife, Vivian of Quilcene, Wash., Mrs. Helen McTaggart of Grand Junction, Colo., Clarence McKnight of Colorado.

Memorial services were held Friday afternoon, Jan. 15, at the St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Clay Center, with the Rev. James Leach of Manhattan officiating. Henry Gay Wylie served as crucifer.

... . Mrs. Leslie Wylie was the accompanist. In the choir were Mrs. Fred Johnson, Mrs. H. L. Sheppeard, Mrs. H. H. Eikermann, Miss Emma Leach, Mrs. Arlan Conrad and Mrs. Ronald Conrad.

Interment was in the Selts family plot in Greenwood Cemetery. The casket bearers were: John Wilhelm, E. E. Hosmer, Jasper Vincent, M. L Hillman, Victor Hawkins and Morgan Snyder. (The Clay Center Dispatcher, January 15, 1958, submitted by an anonymous submitter)

LARSON, C. VINCENT

C. Vincent Larson, age 95, of Leonardville, Kansas, died Friday, November 12, 2010 at Leonardville Nursing Home.

He was born August 21, 1915, at Walsburg, Kansas, the son of Charles and Emma (Larson) Larson. He attended Baldwin Creek Grade School and Leonardville High School graduating with the Class of 1933.

He was a lifetime farmer and had managed H&R Block in Manhattan for 15 years. He prepared taxes at his home until his retirement at the age of 91. He was a member of the Alert Covenant Church, the Leonardville Lions Club, a lifetime member of the Riley County Historical Society. He had served on the Boards of Walsburg Grade School, the Leonardville Farmers Union Coop, the Clay Center, Leonardville and Miltonvale Coop, and the Leonardville Nursing Home Executive Board. He was also actie and involved in the political scene. He served for over 50 years on the Sherman Township Election Board. At an early age he involved himself with the Farmers Union farm organization and held offices on the local, county and state level.

Vincent was married on September 21, 1941, at Lincoln Nebraska, to Adeline Nelson in the Dr. Knute and Lois Broady home. This was a union that would last over 67 years and was an example to all of love and devotion. Adeline was a supportive hostess of his tax service and Vincent became a living example by his attentive care during Adeline's eight and one half years of nursing home residency. She preceded him in death on March 4, 2009. He was also preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Irene Larson, Evangeline Lofdahl and Eveline Tiderman.

He is survived by 2 sons, Roger Larson and wife Chris of Prairie Village, Kansas, and Keven Larson and wife Mary of Riley, Kansas; 1 daughter, Paula Seematter and husband Kenneth of Manhattan Kansas; 7 grandchildren, Julie Larson of Little Rock, Arkansas, Kara Larson of Littleton, Colorado, Jared Larson of Leonardville, Kansas, Derek Larson of Manhattan, Kansas, Kyndra Myers and husband Jason of St. George, Kansas, Stacy Poell and husband Nick of Wamego, Kansas and 2 great grandchildren, Kjersten Myers and Brandon Poell.

Vincent had a dry wit, a winning smile, a love of children, proficiency in horseshoe pitching and Scrabble, a deep sense of honesty and integrity, and a walk with God that was the essence of his being. He truly lived the admonition of the prophet Micah, to do justly, love mercy and to walk humbly with thy God.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, November 16, 2010, at the Alert Covenant Church north of Leonardville, Kansas, with Rev. Dwight Diller officiating, remarks were made by Paula Broady Wells and Kevin Larson. Music was furnished by Veryl Rundquist, David Rundquist, Steve Rundquist, Bernie Peterson, LuAnn Lund, Mary Johnson and Myrna Beblavi. Pallbearers were Jared Larson, Derek Larson, Jason Myers, Ryan Seematter, Nick Poell and Jim Beblavi. Burial was in the Leonardville Cemetery north of Leonardville, Kansas. The Holmes-Pfeifley Funeral Home in Riley, Kansas was in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been established for the Alert Covenant Curch and the Leonardville Nursing Home. (The Riley Countian, November 19, 2010, page 3, submitted by Janet Nelson)

GAY, MARY MUNRO (MRS. F. V.)

Life Story of Mrs. F.V. Gay

In recording the life story of Mrs. F.V. Gay, two dates take prominence--September 25, 1949, the time of her birth; and December 29, 1947, when she passed into the peace of eternal sleep. In the span of her life covering 98 years, 3 months, and 4 days, and the changing times in which she lived, a great deal of history has transpired, and her years were filled with intersting experiences.

Beginning her life as Mary Munro, September 25, 1849, at Jonesville, Michigan, she was the daughter of George C. and Clara Leake Munro. She was one of 11 daughters and 2 sons in the Munro family. Of that number, only one sister, Mrs. Cynthia Barkman, of Jonesville, Mich., survives.

She received her education and grew to womanhood in the place of her birth. The marriage of Mary Munro and Frank V. Gay occured June 29, 1869, in Jonesville, Mich. The lived for a time in Chicago, also in Litchfield, Mich.; later going to Oroville, Calif. On their wedding trip to California, they were among the first people to go on a transcontinental journey, by train and a pullman, shortly after the Union Pacific railway was built, which inspired the story of the "Iron Horse."

Eventually Mr. and Mrs. Gay arrived in Clay Center, Kansas in the year 1873, first living in the H.G. Allen Home, later known at the Letts House. In those early days, Mr. Allen and Mr. Gay went hunting on the McKinley school grounds. For 75 years the Gay home has been here, and for 35 years, Mrs. Gay lived in the home at 723 Dexter street, which is a storehouse of treasures.

Although Mr. and Mrs. Gay never had any children of their own, out of the goodness of their hearts they adopted four girls, Marjorie, age 1, and Clara, 5 years, who died in childhood; Edith, now Mrs. Andrew Hansen, and Lillian, now Mrs. Leslie Wylie, both of Clay Center. Mrs. Gay was also godmother to 70 or more children in th Episcopal church. To those who knew her intimately she had certain unforgettable qualities, and many are those she helped in time of need or deep trouble.

Mr. Gay's death occurred suddenly February 14, 1924, terminating a companionship of nearly 54 years.

The Gays always maintained a hospitable home, and especially for their church people, the bishops, ministers, and other folk. Mr. and Mrs. Gay were instrumental in founding the St. Paul's Episcopal church in Clay Center, and they also started the little community Episcopal church of Allen's Park, Colo., where they spent their summer months for many years.

A woman of strong loyalties--to her church, her family and her friends, Mrs. Gay held a place of distinction in the Episcopal church, and she kept her own home to the last. She finished her earthly sojourn at the close of the day, December 29, near the end of the year, 1947, following an illness of several months, in which she was given loving care.

In a reminiscent mood, Mrs. Gay would relate events in her long life that were more thrilling than fiction. Her mother, Clara Leake Munro was a direct descendent of Brig. Gen. John Lamb of the Revolutionary War, and her grandfather, Isaac Quntard Leake, was paymaster during the War of 1812.

As early as 1834 George C. Munro, moving from New York to Jonesville, Mich., traded with the Indians. He built the first brick house in Jonesville, which was one of the show places in that area and for more than 100 years it was the Munro home. Last June it passed into the hands of the Jonesville American Legion Post No. 195, and it with its historic background, is very fitting that it should pass to living vetrans of World War I and II.

Concerning Clay Center, Mrs. Gay could look back at the unfolding panorama of 75 years and say, "All this I sa, and was a part of it."

She leaves two daughters, Mrs. Andrew Hansen, and husband, Mrs. Leslie Wylie, and husband, four grandchildren, Frank Andrew, Mary Gay, and Lillian Martha Hansen, and Henry Gay Wylie; one sister, Mrs. Cynthia Barkman; some nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Memorial services were held at St. Paul's Episcopal church, Friday morning, January 2, at 10 o'clock, with the Rev. Howard S. Giere, former pastor and dear friend of Mrs. Gay, in charge. Assisting were the Rev. Robert Mize of Ellsworth; Rev. Charles Davies, Manhattan, and the Rev. Sidney Hoadley, new pastor at St. Paul's Episcopal church was also present.

Mrs. Fred Johnson and Mert Harvey Schwensen, with Mrs. V. R. Vergades as accompanist, sand "My Faith Looks Up to thee," "Come Ye Disconsolate," and "The Strife is O'er."

Burial was in Greenwood cemetery. The body bearers were John Wilhelm, Bernard, Panton, J.H. Kerby, Verner Alquist, William M. Beall and Henry O'Bryan. The services were in every way just as Mrs. Gay would have wished and the beautiful flowers were symbols of regard and friendship.

Those coming from a distance were Rev. and Mrs. Howard Giere, Hammond, La.; Rev. Robert Mize and Mae McGinness, Ellsworth; Rev. Charles Davies and Mrs. Charles King of Manhattan. (Submitted by Edie DeWeese)

FROST, DELBERT F. JR.

Delbert F. Frost Jr., 77, died August 2, 2011 at his home in Havre, Montana. He was born June 20, 1934 in Clay Center, Kansas to Delbert F. Frost, Sr. and Elsie Morey Frost. He was known as "Frosty" to his friends and co-workers.

He attended Clay Center schools and served in the Kansas National Guard. His occupation was heavy equipment operator and his interests were horses, hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Fifth Avenue Christian Church in Havre.

He married Shirley Fajen in Clay Center. He later married Noel Odenkirchen of Havre who just recently passed away on July 26, 2011.

Delbert lived in Colorado Springs, working for the El Paso County Road Department and various construction companies before moving to Garden City, Kansas in 1976. He worked for the Finney County Road Department for 20 years, then retiring to Montana for the past 12 years.

He is survived by his son, Steve and wife Stephanie, five grandchildren, Steven, Lauren, Joshua, Matthew and Sarah, all of Topeka, Kansas; a niece and three nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Jolene Wolfe, and his stepmother, Margaret Haden Frost.

A memorial service and burial will take place at a graveside service in Clay Center, Kansas at a later date.

A memorial fund has been established for Delbert at the Fifth Avenue Christian Church, 2015 Fifth Ave, Havre, MT, 59501. Condolences may be mailed in care of Edwards Funeral Home, 500 Indiana St, Chinook, Montana 59523.

Paid death notice. (Clay Center Dispatch, August 11, 2011, submitted by Steven K. Frost)

SPURRIER, ROMAN "BUB"

Roman “Bub” Spurrier, 75, died Friday, April 15, 1994, at Medicalodge of Clay Center.

Mr. Spurrier was born July 9, 1918, at Green, the son of Marshall and Xenia Virgil (Craft) Spurrier. He was a farmer in the Hayes and Goshen townships before retiring and moving to Clay Center in February 1992.

He married Violet Baker, April 25, 1943, in Clay Center and she survives of the home.

He was preceded in death by two brothers.

Other survivors include a son, Thomas Spurrier of Benton, and a sister, Ereeldean Moore of Green.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral chapel with the Rev. Leland Anderson officiating. Burial will be in Green Cemetery.

Friends may call until 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Medicalodge of Clay Center. (Clay Center Dispatch, April 18, 1994, submitted by Maurene Miller)

SHERBERT, VIRGIL DELMAR

Virgil Delmar Sherbert, 89, of clay Center, died Sunday, April 17, 1994, at the Wakefield Rehabilitation Center.

Mr. Sherbert was born Jan. 12, 1905, at Broughton, the son of William and Lillian (Gregwire) Sherbert. He worked for Rock Island Railroad for 20 years before retiring in 1970. He then operated a yard service in the Clay Center area until 1988.

He married Bertha Haden June 27, 1933, and she preceded him in death Sept. 27, 1963.

Survivors include four sons, Marvin Sherbert and wife, Dolores, of Clay Center, Delmar Sherbert and wife, Cynthia, of Salina, Paul Sherbert and wife, Pat, of Broken Arrow, Okla., and Kenneth Sherbert and wife, Nancy, of Tecumseh; a daughter, Retha and husband, Dean Burnett of Hallsville, Mo.; three brothers, Archie Sherbert of Vandalia, Fla., Bert Sherbert of Wakefield and Richard Sherbert of Chapman; a sister, Rovina Hinson of Concordia; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandchild. (Clay Center Dispatch, April 18, 1994, submitted by Maurene Miller)

WALCHLE, JULIUS DAVID

Julius David Walchle, 81, Salina, died Thursday, Jan. 29, 1998, at the Sterling House, Salina. Mr. Walchle was born Dec. 8, 1916, at Wakefield and was a resident of Salina since 1990, moving from Clay Center. He was a farmer and worked several years for Salina Mills. He was a member of Sacred Heart Cathedral, Salina.

His first wife, Dorothy, died in 1987.

Survivors include his wife, Florence of Concordia; three stepdaughters, Olene Senner of Port Isabel, Texas, Emma Jean Woodruff of Salina and Lou Ann Stalder of Clay Center; a half sister, Margie Workman of Manhattan; 14 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

The service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday in Greenwood Cemetery, Clay Center, the Rev. Loren Werth officiating. Memorials may be made to Mount Joseph Nursing Home, Concordia, in care of the funeral home. Visitation will be from 1 to 5:30 p.m. today at Geisendorf-Rush Smith Funeral Home, 401 W. Iron, Salina 67401. (Salina Journal, January 30, 1998, submitted by Maurene Miller)

PLANK, CATHERINE

Clay Center, Kans. ---- Mrs. Catherine Plank of Clay Center died Saturday evening at her home here. She was nearly 84 years old and was one of the old settlers of Kansas. She was a remarkably well-preserved woman, never being taken for more that 60 years of age. (Haven Weekly Journal, Saturay, January 7, 1905, page 2, column 2, submitted by Rose Stout)

FISCHER, KARL ERNEST

Karl Ernest Fischer, son of William and Louisa (Stoll) Fischer was born at Neunestad, Wurtenberg, Germany, September 28, 1853 and died at his home one mile east of Longford, Kansas at 6:30 Wednesday morning, September 11, 1935 following a long illness of five weeks, during which time he was a patient sufferer, ever thankful for the care and attention bestowed upon him. At the time of his death he had reached the age of 81 years, 11 months and 14 days.

Mr. Fischer was a well learned person, having received his education in the schools of Germany. He was a great reader and could talk fluently on current news.

On November 11, 1877, he was united in marriage to Christine Frank at Nordheim, Germany and to this union were born five daughters and four sons, two daughters having preceeded him in death. Survinging are three daughters and four sons, Karl C. of Greeley, Colo.; Fred E. of Spokane, Wash.; Willaim B. of Clay Center, Lydia M. Gaswint of Longford, Kansas, Cora H. Keen of Clay Center, Rudolph C. of Longford, Kansas; and Elizabeth Mall of Abilene, Kansas. He is also survived by 25 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. His ever faithful companion preceeded him in death August 21, 1919. His two daughters who preceeded him in death were Louisa Kathrine who died in 1882 before the family left Germany and Lena Keen, who died in Exeter township, December 22, 1928.

The Fischer family left Germany on October 3, 1882, arriving at Clay Center, Kansas Oct. 24. They first located in Athelstane township and a year later they moved to Clay Center where they lived five and one half years. They then moved to Topeka where they remained three and a half years, returning to Clay County. They moved to the present home in Chapman township in February, 1904.

Mr. Fischer was raised in the Lutheran faith and all of his children were christened in the Lutheran church. He attended the Lutheran churches whenever privileged and later joined the Evangelical church when he moved to Longford.

Mr. Fischer spoke many times of character and was loved and respected by all who knew him, holding an honored place in his community. Mr. Fischer spoke many times of being prepared to meet his Master and a few weeks ago requested that his funeral sermon to be taken from the Twenty-Third Psalm. He also selected the two hymns, "Nearer My God To Thee" and "Shall We Gather At The River", to be sung at this service.

Mr. Fischer had the pleasure of having all his children at his bedside during his last illness and they were all here except for Fred E. Fischer of Spokane, Washington.

A kind and loving father has gone to his reward.

Funeral services were held at the Longford church, Friday, Sept. 13 at 2:30. They were conducted by Rev. F. C. Dissinger, pastor of the Longford church, assisted by Rev. R. R. Kaiser of McPherson, Kansas. A quartett composed of Mrs. Frank Fox, Mrs. Clarence Kissling, Mr. Ted McCreedy and Mrs. Fred Darmstatter sang the two hymns Mr. Fischer requested and "Shadows", with Miss Melba Darmstatter accompanist. Rev. Kaiser sang "Good Night and Good Morning" with Mrs. Frank Fox accompanist. Mrs. Fox also played the Processionals.

Six grandsons acted as body bearers. They were Cecil Keen, Kenneth Fischer, Ernest Fischer, Max Fischer, Elmo Caldwell and Gerald Fischer.
Burial was made in the Athelstane Cemetery. (Clay Center Dispatch, September 1935, Submitted by Lana Fischer)

REED, STELLA (DRURY)

Death called a beloved resident of the Wakefield community when Mrs. Stephen Reed, Sr., passed into the life eternal in a very peaceful way — during her sleep in the early morning hours of November 27, 1945. Her life story follows:

Stella, eldest daughter of Josiah and Mary Drury, was born in Decatur, Ill., October 4, 1871. While still a small child she came to Kansas with her parents, who settled on a farm in Union Township, Clay County. With her brothers and sisters, she attended the rural school and church in that neighborhood. She became a member of the Uniondale Baptist Church while a young girl.

On Thanksgiving day in the year of 1891, Stella Drury was united in marriage to Stephen K. Reed of Uniondale. The wedding was at the home of his cousins, Mr. and Mrs. William Bryant in Junction City.

Eventually Mr. and Mrs. Reed went to live on' the Reed homestead in Union township.' Six children were born to them, four of whom survive, namely: Stephen O. Reed of Clay Center; Olive, now Mrs. Wesley Braden of the Wakefield vicinity; Josiah A. Reed, who with his family live on the Reed home place; and Dorothy Reed Williams now of Leavenworth. The eldest daughter, Amy Mary, died in infancy in 1897; and Annie, who became Mrs. Charles Vinzant, passed away in 1924. Two sisters and a brother of Mrs. Reed, also remain to mourn her death, Joe Drury of Concordia; Ada, now Mrs. Albert Hanson; and Olive, now Mrs. Albert Elsasser of the Industry; vicinity. Her brother, James Drury, preceded his sister in death just four years ago. He had made his home with her. Mr. Reed died in 1928.

Of late years Mrs. Reed had made her home very near her daughter, Mrs. Wesley Braden, and has been very happy with her family so near her.
The grandchildren are five grandsons and four granddaughters, Donalie Lebsack of Loveland, Colo., who with her husband and baby, came just a few days previous to visit her grandmother, also Duane, Galen and Jimmy Braden; Ray, Laverne, Delores, Gary and Janice Reed.

There are two little great granddaughters, Sheryl Ann Lebsack and Judith Braden. Besides these much-loved grandchildren are numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom will forever cherish the memory of their Aunt Stella Reed. Some mention must be made also of the host of others who for years have been knit in the closest bond of friendship and who now feel keenly the loss of one who through all the years has proven a generous and loyal friend; who was ever cheerful, reliable, industrious and thoughtful of others. A good wife, a good mother and friend to all will be greatly missed, but her reward in Heaven should and will be glorious.

Funeral services were held on Thursday afternoon, November 29 with a prayer at 1:30 at the Mert Schwenson Chapel in Clay Center, and continued at the Wakefield Methodist church at two o'clock, with the Rev. Ben White of Wakefield in charge.

Mrs. Horace Cowell and Miss Annie Cowell, with Mrs. Edna Rankin of Wakefield as accompanist, sang "The 0ld Rugged Cross," "The Pearly White City," and "In the Sweet Bye and Bye."

Burial was made at Highland cemetery at Wakefield. Pallbearers were [not fully legible]… The large assemblage of family and friends and the beautiful floral tributes bespoke of …sympathy.

[NOTE: “wedding was at the home of his cousins, Mr. and Mrs. William Bryant…” WILLIAM TURNER BRYANT, son of Dr Samuel Bryant and grandson of Cabot Kynaston, was born 12 Mar 1857 in Bristol, England. After the death of his mother, Jessy (Kynaston) Bryant, William Turner Bryant came to America at the age of fourteen about the same time as an uncle, Andrew Stevens Reed, Esq. and his family. They lived on a farm in Union Twp, Clay Co. Sometime during the 1890s the family, lived in Junction City. Later they moved back to a farm in Union Twp (Sec 36) one mile west of Wakefield.] (Dispatch, December 5, 1945, submitted by V. Vinzant)

REED, ANNA MARIA (KYNASTON)

Death of Mrs. Anna Reed.

Mrs. Anna M. Reed, widow of A. S. Reed of Union township, died at her home Sunday night [5 April 1903] of pneumonia from which she had been suffering about a week. Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Episcopal church at Wakefield, Rev. Spaulding officiating. The remains were buried in Highland cemetery close to Wakefield.

Mrs. Anna Reed was, at the time of her death 79 years and two months old. She was born in the south of England where she married Mr. Reed. There their nine children were born. In 1871 they removed to this county with a colony of English coming directly to Wakefield, where Mr. Reed homesteaded a fine farm six miles west of Wakefield. They were among the first settlers in the county. Mr. Reed was a typical specimen of the prosperous English-American farmer. In June, 1884, he passed away.

Of the nine children, six boys and three girls, all except two were present at the death bed of Mrs. Reed. Those two were Andrew S. of Alberta, Canada, and John of Armourdale. Mrs. J. M. Pearson, a daughter, of Kansas City, reached the bed side just before death came. The other two daughters are Mrs. Pret Gates of Clay Center and Mrs. Wm. Todd of Exeter. The other boys live in this county.

Mrs. Reed had numberless friends in this county, especially around Wakefield, where she was so well known. The funeral was very largely attended by friends who grieve with the family in their loss. (The Times, April 9, 1903, submitted by V. Vinzant)

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