BRUNSKILL, SANDRA J.
MULBERRY — Sandra J. Brunskill, 73 of Mulberry
formerly of Pittsburg died at 5:36 p.m. Friday June 24, 2011 at the Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg.
She was born October 7, 1937 in Atchison, KS the daughter of Harold A. and Mary I. (Hopple) Jessip.
Sandra was a graduate of Pittsburg High School, graduated with honors from Labette County Community College with
an Associated Degree in Business.
She married James Brunskill on September 1, 1956 in Pittsburg; he preceded her in death on May 27, 1997.
Sandra worked for Quality Floor and National Pizza Company. At the age of 32 she began working as a foster parent
and during her lifetime she was a foster parent to over 300 children.
She was a former member of the Countryside Christian Church. Over the past several years she attended several local
churches and was currently attending Family Life Assembly of God Church.
Survivors include a son James Brunskill of Aurora, CO; five daughters Theresa Tarter of Pittsburg, Melissa Brunskill
of Cottonwood Falls, KS, Kimberly Stone of Pittsburg, Stacy Owen of Joplin, MO, Dee Bannan of Marshfield, MO; a
brother Harold Jessip of Conroe, TX; two sisters Mary Sylvia Caldwell of Frontenac, Donna Neds of Seattle, WA;
11 grandchildren and one Great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a daughter Rebecca
Howell, three brothers Lyle, Perry and Michael Jessip.
Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Thursday June 30th at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg with Reverend
Jim Sukraw officiating. Inurnment will take place at a later date at the Highland Park Cemetery in Pittsburg. Memorial
contributions can be made to help the family with final expenses, memorials may be brought by or mailed to the
Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. (Morning Sun, June 29, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens
Spencer)
MASSER, JOE
GIRARD — Joe Masser 104, of Girard, KS formally
of Cherokee, KS died 5:55am Thursday July 7, 2011 at his home following a short illness.
Joe was born September 2, 1906 in Kirkwood, KS the son of Josef and Eloise (Kugerl) Masser. He was a lifelong resident
of the area and attended Fleming and Coal Valley schools. Joe was a farmer most all his life. On Dec. 16, 1934
he married Verna Mae McClure in Kansas City, KS; she preceded him in death August 26, 1981. He later married Dora
(Matsin) Kelley on November 3, 1982 in Cherokee, KS; she survives at the home.
Joe was a member of the First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Girard, KS; a former member of the United
Methodist Church in Cherokee, KS, a member of the Senior Citizens Dance Group in Columbus, KS, Bowling League in
Girard, KS, Monday Morning Coffee Bowing League in Pittsburg, KS, enjoyed gardening, sewing and woodworking.
Survivors include his wife of the home; brother Peter Masser of Girard, KS; son-in-law and daughter-in-law Jerry
Harlan and Julie-Anne Harlan; grandchildren Jeff Harlan and wife Lori, Joe Borden and wife Kelly, Jon Harlan, Debbie
Borden, James Harlan, Bill Borden and wife Tina, Jeremy Harlan and wife Nikia and Ben Borden and wife Lou; 13 great-grandchildren
, 3 great-great grandchildren, 2 nephews Francis J. Strasser and Herman Masser, 1 niece Margaret Shepherd and husband
Charles, 3 great nephews, 2 great nieces, 1 great-great nephew, and 6 great-great nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Verna Mae Masser, brother Herman L. Masser, sister Elizabeth Strasser,
step-son Bill Borden and step-daughter Karen Harlan.
Funeral Services will be 10am Monday July 11, 2011 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg, KS with Pastor
Doug Amend officiating. Burial will follow at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Pittsburg, KS. Family will receive
friends from 6-7pm Sunday July 10, 2011 at the funeral home in Pittsburg, KS; friend may call after 11am. In lieu
of flowers the family ask expressions of sympathy be in the form of memorials to the First Christian Church Disciples
of Christ. Arrangements are by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS. (Morning Sun, July 9, 2011, submitted
by Jody Edens Spencer)
PARKER, BETTY J.
ARMA — Betty J. Parker, 83, of Arma died at 7:10
a.m. Saturday, July 9, 2011 at the Arma Care Center at Arma, Kansas.
Mrs. Parker was born February 5, 1928 at Nokomis, Illinois the daughter of August and Agnes Hyle Guyot. Betty was
a homemaker who also worked for Automatic Electric in Chicago, Illinois and later for FMI Forms in Girard. She
was raised in Franklin and attended Franklin schools. She lived in Chicago, Atlanta, Grove, and then finally back
to Arma.
She married W.R. “Jim” Parker on January 14, 1946 at Girard, Kansas. Mr. Parker preceded her in death on March
20, 2001.
Survivors include a daughter, Sue Gardner and her husband Don of Arma; two sons, Kenneth Parker and hsi wife Mary
of Newman, Georgia, and Wayne Parker his wife Sarah of Carrollton, Georgia; eight grandchildren; and nine great
grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two sisters and one brother.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at the Bedene Funeral Home at Arma with Pastor Randy
Woods officiating. Burial will be at the Pittsburg Garden of Memories Cemetery. The family will receive friends
from 6 to 7 p.m. Monday at the Bedene Chapel at Arma. The family suggests memorials to Angels Among Us. Donations
may be sent or left at the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, P.O. Box 621, Arma, Kansas 66712. (Morning Sun,
July 10, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
DOUGLAS,
IDA MAE
MULBERRY — Ida Mae Douglas, 78, of Mulberry died
at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 9, 2011 at her home.
Mrs. Douglas was born December 19, 1932 at Arcadia, Kansas the daughter of Homer and Orpha Cox West. Ida was a
homemaker who was raised in Arcadia and Mulberry and attended Mulberry schools. She lived in Kansas City, Missouri
until moving back to Mulberry in 1988. She married Billy J. Douglas on December 23, 1950 at Mulberry, Kansas. Mr.
Douglas survives at the home. She was a member of the Lighthouse Tabernacle Church in Pittsburg.
Survivors include her husband Billy of the home; three daughters, Linda Joyce Smith of Lenexa, Kansas, Jane Ann
Funk of Overland Park, Kansas and Tammy Jo Shaw of Mulberry; a sister, Erma McClure of Columbus; two brothers,
Leroy West of Neodesha and Marvin West of Overland Park; seven grandchildren; and 11 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Lloyd West and Marvin West; a sister, Belva Gallaway; and
a great grandchild, Faith Smith.
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at the Bedene Funeral Home at Arma with Pastor Daryl
Gaddy and Pastor Ken Smith officiating. Burial will be at the Rosebank Cemetery at Mulberry. The family will receive
friends from 1 p.m. to service time Tuesday at the Bedene Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of the Bedene
Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, P.O. Box 621, Arma, Kansas 66712. (Morning Sun, July 10, 2011, submitted by Jody
Edens Spencer)
FRAYER, MARY LOU MAIN
MINDENMINES, Mo. — Mary Lou Main Frayer, age 80,
of Mindenmines, MO died Sunday July 10, 2011 at Sunset Manor in Frontenac, KS.
Mary was born December 13, 1930 at Carl Junction, MO one of the ten children of Walter Leroy Sr. and Mary Abbie
(Ford) Main. She attended the Church of God and was a talented quilter and enjoyed working in her garden.
On January 9, 1989, she married Earl Ezria Frayer at Mindenmines, and he survives of the home.
Additional survivors include one daughter Judy & David Seaton, of Mesa, AZ; two brothers, Jimmie & Joan
Main of Arkansas City, KS and William & Virginia Main of Pittsburg, KS; three sisters, Peggy & Jim Chambers
of Kansas City, KS, Janice Gott of Valley Falls, KS, and Patricia White of Frontenac, KS, and several nieces and
nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Kenneth Main, Walter Leroy Main Jr., and Donnie Ray
Main; and one sister, Gladys Elliott.
Funeral Service for Mary will be 1:00 pm Friday, July 15, 2011 at Daniel Funeral Home. Burial will be at Crocker
Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6 to 7 pm Thursday at Daniel Funeral Home.
Contributions are suggested to American Heart Association in care of Daniel Funeral Home. (Morning Sun, July 13,
2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
OEHME, ALINE
OVERLAND PARK — Aline (Arlene) Oehme, passed away
on July 11, 2011 in Overland Park, KS at the age of 84. She was born in Mulberry, Kansas on Feb. 9, 1927 to Julia
Brisart Maghe and Emile Maghe, immigrants to Kansas from Belgium. She was the final child of a family of eight
children.
She attended Cockerill High School and on November 23, 1946 married Otto M. (Pete) Oehme. She was a dedicated wife
and mother, taking great pleasure in her home, family and friends. She was a member of the First Christian Church,
a volunteer at Mt. Carmel Hospital and a member of the Beauceants and Order of Eastern Star of Pittsburg. She was
a lifelong resident of Pittsburg, Kansas, until recent years.
She is survived by three children: Jack L. Oehme and wife, Jennifer of Alexandria, VA, Jacqueline Talman and fiancé,
Stan Cyphers of Fairway, KS and Randy P. Oehme and wife, Sue of Steamboat Springs, CO; two grandsons Jason P. Oehme
of Steamboat Springs and Eric C. Phillips and wife, Alison of Lee’s Summit, MO; and two great-grandsons Lyle and
Wyatt Phillips of Lee’s Summit, MO. She is also survived by two sisters, Flora Vena and Lena Haynes and many nieces,
nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by husband, Pete Oehme and siblings Arthur and Joseph Maghe, Amelia Maniez, Louise Edwards
and Becky Layton.
Aline moved to Johnson County Kansas in her later years. She was a resident of The Court at Overland Park for the
past three years. She enjoyed her life at the memory care home. The family is grateful to all her caregivers for
their compassion, patience and care.
The family will receive visitors on Thursday, July 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the home of Stan Cyphers and Jacqueline
Talman, 5546 Fairway Rd, Fairway, KS.
Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday (July 15) at the First Christian Church in Pittsburg, with Rev. Kevin
Arensman officiating. Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery. The family will receive friends from
1:00 p.m. until service time, Friday at the Church. The family suggests memorials to the Red Cross, Joplin Relief
Effort. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Arrangements
are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS. (Morning Sun, July 13, 2011, submitted by Jody
Edens Spencer)
BUCKLES, NELLA M.
MULBERRY — Nella M. Buckles, 84 of Mulberry, KS
passed away Sunday, August 14, 2011 at Heritage Nursing home in Girard, KS.
She was born March 3, 1927 in Drumright, Oklahoma, the daughter of Edwin A and Birdie May Clawson Buckles. She
lived in Mulberry nearly all of her life, moving there in 1938.
Nella worked as a missionary leader, traveling all though out the United States and into Mexico. She attended the
Mulberry Holiness Church in Mulberry.
She is survived by her sister Claudia Hardesty of Sand Springs, Oklahoma; and a host of nieces and nephews. She
was preceded in death by her parents; 5 brothers and 3 sisters.
Funeral Services will be 10:00 A.M. Thursday, August 18, 2011 at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg, KS with
Pastor G.W. Birdsong officiating. Burial will follow at Rosebank Cemetery in Mulberry. Family will receive friends
from 6-8 P.M. Wednesday August 17 at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home. Friends may call after 2 P.M on Wednesday. Arrangements
are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home. (Morning Sun, August 16, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
BANUELOS, ROGELIO
DIEGO
PITTSBURG — Jessie Carlos Banuelos 23, and his
son Rogelio Diego Banuelos 20 months, died in a tragic car accident on 171hwy west of Opolis, KS on August 20,
2011.
Jessie was born February 23, 1988 in Los Angles, CA the son of Carlos Banuelos and Maria Rosario Banuelos. Diego
was born December 7, 2009 in Pittsburg, KS the son of Jessie Carlos Banuelos and Amanda M. Swor. Jessie was a supervisor
of shipping and receiving for Sugar Creek Packing Company in Frontenac, KS. Jessie was of the Catholic Faith. In
his free time he enjoyed playing pool, soccer, basketball, Playstation 3, dancing and music. He will be most remembered
by his love for his son and family. Little Diego loved to play ball with his dad and uncles in the yard; he also
enjoyed playing on the fuse ball table; like his father music and dance was another one of his favorite things
to do. Ironically, Diego loved to go for car rides with his dad in their Mustang waving “bye bye."
Survivors of Jessie include his parents, siblings Juan Munguia, Victor Banuelos and Tino Banuelos all of Pittsburg,
KS; a cousin and best friend Francisco Banuelos; 24 cousins and a host of other family members and friends.
Survivors of Diego include his mother; maternal grandparents Kelly Swor and Beverly Ross; step-grandfather Gerald
Ross Jr.; step-grandmother Christy Swor; aunts Talaina Ross, Kelsey Swor; uncles Aaron Swor, Brandon Ivicsics and
a host of other family and friends.
Memorial Services will be 2pm Saturday August 27, 2011 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg, KS with Fr.
Adam Keiter and Daryl Gaddy officiating. Rosary will be recited at 7pm Friday August 26, 2011 at the funeral home;
family will receive friends immediately following the rosary.
Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS. (Morning Sun, August
26, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
BANUELOS, JESSIE
CARLOS
PITTSBURG — Jessie Carlos Banuelos 23, and his
son Rogelio Diego Banuelos 20 months, died in a tragic car accident on 171hwy west of Opolis, KS on August 20,
2011.
Jessie was born February 23, 1988 in Los Angles, CA the son of Carlos Banuelos and Maria Rosario Banuelos. Diego
was born December 7, 2009 in Pittsburg, KS the son of Jessie Carlos Banuelos and Amanda M. Swor. Jessie was a supervisor
of shipping and receiving for Sugar Creek Packing Company in Frontenac, KS. Jessie was of the Catholic Faith. In
his free time he enjoyed playing pool, soccer, basketball, Playstation 3, dancing and music. He will be most remembered
by his love for his son and family. Little Diego loved to play ball with his dad and uncles in the yard; he also
enjoyed playing on the fuse ball table; like his father music and dance was another one of his favorite things
to do. Ironically, Diego loved to go for car rides with his dad in their Mustang waving “bye bye."
Survivors of Jessie include his parents, siblings Juan Munguia, Victor Banuelos and Tino Banuelos all of Pittsburg,
KS; a cousin and best friend Francisco Banuelos; 24 cousins and a host of other family members and friends.
Survivors of Diego include his mother; maternal grandparents Kelly Swor and Beverly Ross; step-grandfather Gerald
Ross Jr.; step-grandmother Christy Swor; aunts Talaina Ross, Kelsey Swor; uncles Aaron Swor, Brandon Ivicsics and
a host of other family and friends.
Memorial Services will be 2pm Saturday August 27, 2011 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg, KS with Fr.
Adam Keiter and Daryl Gaddy officiating. Rosary will be recited at 7pm Friday August 26, 2011 at the funeral home;
family will receive friends immediately following the rosary.
Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.(Morning Sun, August
26, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
BROWN, JEFFREY LAWSON
PITTSBURG — Jeffrey "Jeff" Lawson Brown
was born June 5, 1966, in Hayti, Mo. He went to be with his Savior on September 18, 2011, after a yearlong courageous
battle with leukemia.
After graduating from Pittsburg High School in Pittsburg, KS, in 1984 he began his college education at Pittsburg
State University, working toward a degree in music. Jeff was an accomplished trumpeter and played first chair in
high school and college. In addition to Pittsburg State he also attended Augusta College in Augusta, GA. He completed
his music education at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX, where he earned an undergraduate and master’s
degree. After completing his music education Jeff attended Texas A&M University at College Station, TX, where
he received a Master of Business Administration degree. After receiving his MBA he began his career with CompuServe
in Houston, TX. As his career progressed he worked for Qwest, Southewestern Bell Telephone, and AT&T. Jeff
was with AT&T when he passed away.
While attending Sam Houston State University, Jeff met and married the love of his life, Michelle Long. They have
one child, Madison JoAnn Brown. In addition to his wife and daughter, those left to cherish his memory are his
mother and father, Ann and Don Brown of Huntsville; his sister, Michelle O’Bryant, her husband Tim O’Bryant and
their son, Conner, of Huntsville, TX; his father-in-law, Steve Long, Houston, TX: and numerous aunts, uncles and
cousins in Arizona, Missouri, Arkansas and Illinois. And the list of his friends is almost endless.
Jeff loved music and even though hi scareer was
business his passion was music. He never missed an opportunity to play the trumpet and played on many occasions
in weddings and churches. During the summer of 1987 Jeff toured with a drum corps troop, The Sky Ryders Drum &
Bugle Corps of Hutchinson, Kansas. He also has played with the Billie Ledbetter Orchestra for the past sixteen
years.
Memorial contributions can be made to the MADISON BROWN COLLEGE FUND care of Bank of America or the Leukemia Society.
Memorial services were held Sat., Sept. 24, 2011. (Morning Sun, September 28, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
NELSON, DANIEL NEIL
PITTSBURG — Daniel Neil Nelson, 56 of Pittsburg,
KS passed away Sunday, September 25, 2011 at Medicalodge South of Pittsburg.
He was born September 12, 1955 the son of Neil and Angeline (Crespino) Nelson in Pittsburg, KS. Daniel graduated
from Pittsburgh High School and later graduated from Pitt. State University getting his Masters in Science.
He worked for Envisions in Pittsburg for 14 years. He also worked for Pitt Plastic for three and a half years.
Daniel was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Pittsburg.
Survivors include his Mother, Angie and Stepfather Bob Vernetti; 1 sister, Julie Bartley and brother in-law Bruce
Bartley. 2 nephews, Todd and Corey Bartley and 2 uncles, Frank and wife JoAnn and Bill and wife Pat Crespino. He
was preceded in death by his father, Neil; and grandparents Earl and Reva Nelson and Joe and Nellie Crespino; and
a cousin, Craig Crespino.
Funeral Services will be 10:00 A.M. Friday, September
30, 2011 at Bath-Naylor Funeral Home in Pittsburg with Father Mike Baldwin officiating. Burial will follow at Mt.
Olive Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 am until service time Friday. Memorials may be made to the American
Cancer Society. Memorials may be dropped off or mailed to Bath-Naylor Funeral Home; 522 South Broadway, Pittsburg,
KS 66762. (Morning Sun, September 28, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
MARTIN, GREGG DANIEL
PITTSBURG — Gregg Daniel Martin, 49, of rural Pittsburg,
passed away Friday afternoon, August 26, 2011 in an automobile accident.
He was born May 29, 1962 at Pittsburg, the son of Dan and Judy (Schooley) Martin. He graduated from Pittsburg High
School in 1980 and graduated from Kansas State University in 1984. In 1988, Gregg graduated from Southern Methodist
University School of Law.
On November 19, 1988, he was united in marriage to Patricia L. Patton in Lenexa, Kansas.
Gregg practiced law with Payne and Jones Attorneys in Overland Park, Kansas. He returned to Pittsburg in 1990 to
farm on the family farm, Oak Hill Farm. He continued to practice law with his wife at Martin and Martin Law Firm.
He also served as Judge for the Frontenac Municipal Court.
Membership was held in the Countryside Christian Church, the Crawford County Bar Association, the Jasper County
Bar Association, the Kansas Bar Association and the Missouri Bar Association.
In addition to his wife, Patty, he is survived by two sons, Dan Martin and his wife, Erin of Manhattan, KS and
Scott Martin of Fayetteville, AR; his daughter, Jenny Martin of Overland Park, KS; his parents, Danny and Judy
Martin of rural Asbury, MO; his sister, Angie Sarley and her husband, Mike, of rural Pittsburg; and nieces and
nephews.
Memorial services will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday (Aug. 30) at the Countryside Christian Church with Dan Muter and Brian
Thomason, co-officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Monday at the Brenner Mortuary,
where friends may call after 10 a.m. to sign the register. The family suggests memorials be given to Crawford County
4-H Fund. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th Street, Pittsburg, KS 66762. Arangements
are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, KS. (Morning Sun, August 28, 2011, submitted by Jody
Edens Spencer)
PIKE, ALBERT
PITTSBURG — Albert Pike, 83, of Girard, died at
12:20 a.m., Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at his residence in Girard.
He was born August 18, 1928 in Mulberry to Andrew and Mary (Eichorn) Pike. He grew up on a farm north of Frontenac
and attended schools in Cockerill and Arma and mechanics school at Pittsburg State University. He served 2 years
in the US Army Company G-30th Infantry, 5th Army in Colorado Springs, Colorado and Fort Benning, Georgia.
He was a member of the Girard Masonic Lodge No. 93, AF & AM in Girard, the York Rite, Chapter and Commandry
of Independence and the Mirza Shrine of Pittsburg. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Girard, the
George C. Brown Post No. 26, American Legion of Girard, and the SNPJ Lodge No. 225 of Arma.
After the army, Albert worked at Harmon Brothers in Girard, Pittsburg Pottery and W.S. Dickey Clay, both of Pittsburg,
and Sohigro in Girard. He started his own business, Pike’s Garage, in 1968, operating from his double car garage
at his home at 601 S Ozark in Girard. He operated the business for 30 years with his son, Warren. Albert retired
in 1991, after a chain saw accident at Farlington Lake. He sold his business to his son Warren who had helped him
since he was 8 years old.
Albert married Rosalie DeMaire on June 8, 1951. She survives of the home. Also surviving are a son, Warren A. Pike
and his wife Deborah of Girard and a daughter, Rosemary J. Mahoney and her husband Paul of Girard. His granddaughter,
Kassie Lynn Pike Steele and her husband Strider of Dallas, Texas and his grandsons Ryan Paul Mahoney of Enid, Oklahoma
and Christopher Warren Pike and his wife Patricia of Girard. His great-grandchildren are Latricia, Matthew, Deanna
and Anthony Pike, all of Girard and Breckyn and Xander Steele of Dallas. He has numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers
Frank and Vincent Pike, and a grandson, Matthew Paul Mahoney.
Albert loved to fish and take the children and many others skiing at Farlington Lake. He also loved to farm and
go on trips in his 5th wheel with his wife.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Friday at the Smith-Carson-Wall Funeral Home in Girard with Rev. Doug Amend
officiating. Burial will be in the Garden of Memories Cemetery at rural Pittsburg with military honors conducted
by the George C. Brown Post No. 26, American Legion of Girard. The family will receive friends from 7:00 until
8:00 p.m., Thursday at the Smith-Carson-Wall Funeral Home where friends may call after 1:00 p.m., Thursday.
Memorials are suggested to the Future Farmers of
America Vocational Agriculture Department at the Girard High School and these may be left at the Smith-Carson-Wall
Funeral Home, 518 W St. John, Box 258, Girard, 66743. (Morning Sun, September 28, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens
Spencer)
RAKESTRAW, DEBRA
KAY
PITTSBURG — Debra Kay Rakestraw, 55, of Girard,
died at 9:02 P.M., Monday, October 3, 2011 at the Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, MO.
She was born February 15, 1956 at Pittsburg, a
daughter of Doyle and Colleen (Harrison) Snyder.
She grew up in Pittsburg and attended school there.
Upon completing high school, she attended Pittsburg State University.
In the early 1990’s she moved to Girard where she
was employed at the Girard Press. She later worked as a manager at Dollar General at Girard and Super 8 in Pittsburg.
She was united in marriage in 1978 to Kenny Rakestraw
at Pittsburg. They later divorced.
She loved all of her grandchildren and enjoyed
watching them play all sports and races. She also enjoyed spending her time with friends and family. She was always
full of life.
Survivors include: Three sons – Justin Rakestraw,
and his wife, Alicia, Arma; Jason Rakestraw, Girard; Jared Rakestraw, Girard; Three daughters – Tramisha Snyder-Thomas,
and her husband, Josh, Joplin; Tasha Ferguson, and her husband, David, Girard; Tara Rakestraw, Girard; Eleven grandchildren,
and another soon to be Two brothers – Ken Snyder, Cherokee; Ron Snyder, Overland Park, KS.
She was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral
services will be held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, October 6, 2011 at the Smith-Carson-Wall Funeral Home at Girard.
Burial will be in the Girard Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:30 until 8:00 Wednesday evening at
the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to School District 248 and may be left at or mailed to the funeral home,
P.O. Box 258, Girard, KS 66743. (Morning Sun, October 4, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
GORENCE, LUCY J.
ARMA — Lucy J. Gorence, 92, of Arma died at 10:10 a.m. Friday, October 7, 2011 at the Arma Care Center at Arma.
Ms. Gorence was born May 6, 1919 at Arma the daughter of Martin and Mary Medved Gorence. Lucy was a homemaker and
a lifelong resident of Arma. Lucy was an avid gardener and loved to plant flowers and vegetables and most important
was a very friendly person. She attended Arma schools. She was a member of the S.N.P.J. Lodge #225 at Arma. Survivors
include a brother, Edward Gorence and his wife Sue of Midland, Texas, a niece, Janet Gorence Davas and her husband
David of New Orleans, Louisiana, two nephews, Ken Gorence of Austin, Texas and Gary Gorence of Pecos, New Mexico,
and three great nieces, Erin Gorence, Amanda Gorence, and Elizabeth Davas.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, October 10, 2011 at the Bedene Funeral Home at Arma with the Rev. Steve
Cole officiating. Burial will be at the Pittsburg Garden of Memories Cemetary. Friends may call after 8:30 a.m.
Monday at the Bedene Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington,
Box 621, Arma, Kansas 66712. (Morning Sun, October 8, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
CUNNINGHAM, ARLENE YVONNE
ARMA — Arlene Yvonne Cunningham, 79, of Arma, died at 12:30 a.m. Thursday, December 15, at the Arma Care Center
at Arma, Kansas.
“Artie,” as she lovingly called by her parents, was born March 16, 1932, at Daytona Beach, Florida, the daughter
of Charles R. and Velma Cunningham. The family resided in Florida and traveled to Montana until retiring in Arma
in 1984. Arlene lived with her parents until their deaths and then resided at the Arma Care Center. Survivors include
several cousins. She was loved by the many wonderful caregivers at the Arma Care Center and her life touched those
whom she met. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Private funeral services will be held at the Fairview Cemetery at Englevale, Kansas. Friends may call 10 a.m. to
4 p.m. Monday at the Bedene Funeral Home in Arma. The family sugests in lieu of flowers, that you take time and
visit someone you know who is in a nursing home or show appreciation to the professionals who work in a nursing
home facility. Arrangements are under the direction of the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, Box 621, Arma,
KS 66712. (Morning Sun, December 16, 2011, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
TASSI, ESTHER
ARMA — Esther Tassi, 94, of Arma, died at 7:22 p.m. Monday, February 13, 2012, at the Girard Medical Center
in Girard, Kan.
Mrs. Tassi was born April 27, 1917, in Malito Cosenza Calabria, Italy, the daughter of Eugenio and Luisa Carpino
Fiormante. Esther came to America through Ellis Island in 1920 on the USS America. She was a homemaker and lifetime
resident of Arma. She had a great love of her family and was known as “Grams” to her grandchildren and “Great”
to her great grandchildren. Esther enjoyed cooking and feeding family, friends, and children, and she also enjoyed
playing bingo and going to the casinos. She married Madero Lou Tassi in 1935 and they later divorced. Survivors
include two daughteres, Patricia L. McKee and her husband Ron of Arma and Mary Lee Wattelet and her husband Frank
of Joplin, Mo.; one son, Dennis Tassi and his wife Joyce of Arma; five grandchildren, Frank Lee Wattelet II and
his wife Tara of Joplin, Kurt Wattelet and wife Deana of Flower Mound, Tex., and Kristy Grantham and husband Chuck
of Lee Summit, Mo., Jeff Tassi and wife Brandy of Pittsburg, Scott Tassi of Arma; eight great-grandchildren, Frank
Josphe, Corey and Alexa Wattelet of Joplin, Alexander, Nicholas and Olivia Grantham of Lee’s Summit, Mo., Kurt
Wattelet II of Flower Mound and Brayden Tassi of Pittsburg. Esther was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers,
Carlo and Robert Fioramante; two sisters, Yolanda Morris and Jenny Elkins; and a special friend, Gene Miles.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, February 17, 2012, at the Bedene Funeral Home in Arma with Rev. Steve
Cole officiating. Burial will be at the Pittsburg Garden of Memories Mausoleum. The family will receive friends
from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Bedene Chapel. Friends may call after 2 p.m. Thursday at the chapel. The family
will be at the home of Dennis and Joyce Tassi, 209 S. High, Arma or the home of Pat and Ron McKee, 819 E. South,
in Arma. The family suggests memorials to the Esther Tassi Scholarship Fund for students at Northeast High School.
Donations may be sent to or left at the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, Box 621, Arma, KS 66712. (The Morning
Sun, February 15, 2012, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
McMILLAN, FRED W.
BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — Fred W. McMillan, of Broken Arrow, Okla., 80, died in his home Sunday, Feb. 12, 2012,
following a brief illness. Fred was born in Strauss, Kan. on July 17, 1931, to Fred W. and Mary Elsie (Fowler).
He graduated from McCune High School and served as an army mechanic in the motor pool at Ft. Leonardwood, Mo. His
long career as an industrial bearing salesman ended when he retired from Allied Bearing in 2002. Fred married Bonita
Stewart in 1952 and later divorced. On Sept. 10, 1966, he married Peggy Headrick in Mullinville, Kan. Fred was
preceded in death by his parents; brother, Lawrence; sisters Doris Sexton, Lois Blake and Berniece Knight; and
granddaughter Christina Quallf. He is survived by wife Peggy; sons Jeffrey and wife Terri of Blackhawk, Colo.,
Robb and wife Shelly of Oklahoma City, Okla.; daughter Stephanie Cisneros and husband Jessie of Eunice, New Mexico;
sisters Bernieta Fincher of Pittsburg, Maxine Braman of Frontenac and Betty Ruth McMillan of Parsons; and a grandson
James Garrett Stapleton of Las Vegas, Nev.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 17, 2012 at Floral Haven Funeral Home in Broken Arrow,
Okla. The family will receive visitors immediately following memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests
donations to the American Cancer Society in Fred McMillan’s name. (The Morning Sun, February 15, 2012, submitted
by Jody Edens Spencer)
CALDWELL, MARY SYLVIA
FRONTENAC — Mary Sylvia Caldwell, 67, of Frontenac, passed away at 11:40 a.m. Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at Via
Christi Hospital Pittsburg, Kansas.
Sylvia was born November 15, 1944 at Atchison, Kansas to Harold A. “Shorty” and Mary I. (Hopple) Jessip. She graduated
from Neodesha High School, where she had just celebrated her 50 year reunion.
Ms. Caldwell was a foster parent for over twenty years for the Kaw Valley Center of Kansas.
Sylvia is survived by a son, Larry Michael Hensen of Washington; two daughters, Deborah Johnson-Untereker and her
husband John Jr. of Frontenac and Cheryl Romero of Oklahoma City, OK.; six grandchildren, Christopher and Kayanna
Hensen, Courtenay Johnson, Guillermo, Joshua and Matthew Romero; a brother, Harold “Jerry” Jessip of Conroe, TX.,
and a sister Donna “Coke” Neds of Settle, WA.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a stillborn daughter, Susan Kayann Hensen; three brothers, Lyle, Perry,
and Michael Jessip; a sister, Sandra Brunskill, and the love of her life, John Heath.
No services will be held at this time. Ms. Caldwell has chosen to be cremated. (The Morning Sun, February 10, 2012,
submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
JUMP, RONALD ALLEN
PARSONS — Ronald Allen Jump, 44, of Parsons, died at 1:22 P.M., Tues., Feb. 7, 2012 at the Wesley Medical Center
at Wichita with his family by his side.
He was born June 7, 1967 at Neodesha, a son of Larry Wayne and Gayle Ann (Velia) Jump. He grew up and attended
schools at St. Paul. After high school he moved to Parsons and worked as a mill/wright for various construction
companies.
He was united in marriage to Patty Johnson on Apr. 20, 1991 at Parsons. They later divorced.
He was a Christian. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, camping and auto races, especially Nascar.
Survivors include one son, Keagan Jump, of Parsons; one daughter, Kelsey Jump, of Parsons; father and step-mother,
Larry and Carolyn Jump, of Independence; one brother, Larry D. Jump, of Pittsburg; one sister, Lisa Jump, of Pittsburg;
one half-brother, Chris Fleming, of Florida; and two step-sisters, Leann Linn, of Independence and Shellie Campbell,
of Champlin, Minn.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Gayle Ann Velia.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M., Mon., Feb. 13, 2012 at the Carson-Wall Funeral Home. Burial will be
in the Memorial Lawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 3-4 Sunday afternoon at the funeral home. Memorials
are suggested to an education fund established for his children. Checks are to be made to the Keagan and Kelsey
Jump Education Fund. These may be left at or mailed to the funeral home, P.O. Box 942, Parsons, KS 67357. (The
Morning Sun, February 10, 2012, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
BARTLOW, THOMAS T.
PITTSBURG — Thomas T. Bartlow, 64, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away at 9:00 p.m., Monday, February 6, 2012, Via
Christi Village, Pittsburg, KS.
He was born January 12, 1948, at Urbana, IL, to John and Margaret (Kimble) Bartlow. He attended Pittsburg schools
and graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1966.
Tom's interests were varied, but the things he enjoyed most in life were traveling, photography, music and movies,
and above all else, trains and railroads
Tom spent many hours watching and photographing trains; especially the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad while
living in Denver for many years.
While growing up in Pittsburg, Ks. in the late 50's and early 60's, you could usually find Tom at the local Frisco
Railroad yard riding an engine with one of his engineer friends. HO guage model trains were also a big part of
Tom's life, and maybe his favorite hobby until the time of his death.
Survivors include two brothers, Terry Bartlow of Pittsburg, KS, and Kimble Bartlow of Mesa, AZ; a sister-in-law,
Janice Susnik Bartlow of Pittsburg, KS; a nephew, Jon A. Bartlow and his wife Amy of Pittsburg, KS, two nieces,
Christina M. Bartlow of Pittsburg, KS, and Elysia Bartlow of Phoenix, Az.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Stan Bartlow.
Mr. Bartlow has been cremated. Private burial will take place at a later time. Tom's love of all animals, and especially
cats could not be surpassed. Because of this, it is asked that anyone wishing to donate something in Tom's name
can do so through the SEK Humane Society, P.O. Box 783, Pittsburg, Kansas 66762. A memorial has been established
there in the name of Thomas T. Bartlow. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg,
KS. (The Morning Sun, February 11, 2012, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
MARCHETTI, GENO F.
ARMA — Geno F. Marchetti, 91, of Arma, died at 6:45 a.m. Monday, February 13, 2012, at the Arma Care Center
at Arma, Kansas.
Mr. Marchetti was born April 13, 1920, at Gross, Kansas, the son of Fred and Mary Ugolini Marchetti. He graduated
from Mulberry High School in 1937. He worked in Detroit and Kansas City, Mo., until entering the service Nov. 23,
1942, at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas. He served with the 94th Infantry Division 301st Battalion in the European Theatre.
He received four Bronze Stars, EAME Campaign Medal, Battle of Southern Europe. He received Bronze Star with Oak
Leaf Cluster, American Theatre Campaign Medal, Expert INfantry Badge and Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal,
and two Presidential Unit Citations. Upon his return from the service, he worked in Pittsburg for McNally’s and
the Kansas City Southern Railroad. Later, he worked as an electronics technician for Barbieri’s in Arma for over
25 years. He married Alba Serena on June 18, 1946, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Arma. Mrs. Marchetti survives
at the home. He was a member of the Lon Helm Post #182 American Legion at Arma. Survivors include his wife, Alba
of the home; nieces and nephews, Kim (Tarik) Hadj-Hamou of Huntington Beach, Calif., Cathy (Michael) Hartman of
Logan, Utah, Barbara (Jim) Hoskins, Baxter Springs, Kan., Mark (Jan) Ciardullo of Topeka, Kan., Patrick Ciardullo
of Las Vegas, Nev., Rosemary (Art) Zimola of Roeland Park, Kan., Corrine (C.C.) Warlop of Roeland Park, Kan., and
Philip G. (Susan) Morgan of Annville, Pa. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Emma Pastore
and Anita Morgan.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Arma
with Father Roger Lumbre as the celebrant. Burial will be at the Pittsburg Garden of Memories Cemetery. The family
will receive friends from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Bedene Funeral Home at Arma, where the rosary will be said
at 8 p.m. Ft. Riley Burial Detail will conduct graveside flag-folding services. The family suggests memorials to
the St. Ann’s Altar Society or the Lon Helm #182 American Legion Scholarship Fund. Donations may be sent to or
left at the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, Box 621, Arma, KS 66712.
Geno F. Marchetti, 91, of Arma, died at 6:45 a.m. Monday, February 13, 2012, at the Arma Care Center at Arma, Kansas.
Mr. Marchetti was born April 13, 1920, at Gross, Kansas, the son of Fred and Mary Ugolini Marchetti. He graduated
from Mulberry High School in 1937. He worked in Detroit and Kansas City, Mo., until entering the service Nov. 23,
1942, at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas. He served with the 94th Infantry Division 301st Battalion in the European Theatre.
He received four Bronze Stars, EAME Campaign Medal, Battle of Southern Europe. He received Bronze Star with Oak
Leaf Cluster, American Theatre Campaign Medal, Expert INfantry Badge and Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal,
and two Presidential Unit Citations. Upon his return from the service, he worked in Pittsburg for McNally’s and
the Kansas City Southern Railroad. Later, he worked as an electronics technician for Barbieri’s in Arma for over
25 years. He married Alba Serena on June 18, 1946, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Arma. Mrs. Marchetti survives
at the home. He was a member of the Lon Helm Post #182 American Legion at Arma. Survivors include his wife, Alba
of the home; nieces and nephews, Kim (Tarik) Hadj-Hamou of Huntington Beach, Calif., Cathy (Michael) Hartman of
Logan, Utah, Barbara (Jim) Hoskins, Baxter Springs, Kan., Mark (Jan) Ciardullo of Topeka, Kan., Patrick Ciardullo
of Las Vegas, Nev., Rosemary (Art) Zimola of Roeland Park, Kan., Corrine (C.C.) Warlop of Roeland Park, Kan., and
Philip G. (Susan) Morgan of Annville, Pa. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Emma Pastore
and Anita Morgan.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Arma
with Father Roger Lumbre as the celebrant. Burial will be at the Pittsburg Garden of Memories Cemetery. The family
will receive friends from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Bedene Funeral Home at Arma, where the rosary will be said
at 8 p.m. Ft. Riley Burial Detail will conduct graveside flag-folding services. The family suggests memorials to
the St. Ann’s Altar Society or the Lon Helm #182 American Legion Scholarship Fund. Donations may be sent to or
left at the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, Box 621, Arma, KS 66712. (The Morning Sun, February 14, 2012,
submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
GREEN, THOMAS MATTHEW
FRONTENAC - Thomas Matthew Green, 47, of Frontenac, died Feb. 12, 2012 at his home.
He was born Jan. 6, 1965 in Pittsburg the son of Ray and Neoma Horton Green. He had lived in Frontenac for the
past 4 years.
He had served in the US Army Reserve.
Mr. Green worked as a Pipefitter, before his retirement.
Survivors include one daughter Jacqui Green of Frontenac; one granddaughter Joslynn Ashbacher of Frontenac; 4 sisters
Linda Miller of Willow Springs, MO; Kay Goodwin and husband Rick of Gross, KS; Debra Everitt and significant other
John Roe of Pittsburg; and Connie Scholes and husband Charles of Pittsburg; 2 brothers Virgil Mill and wife Tisha
of Wichita, KS; and Phillip Green of Pittsburg. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be 1 pm, Saturday, February 18, 2012 at the home of Carl Lloyd, 4011 Mt. Carmel
Road, Frontenac, KS. Arrangements are by the Midland Cremation Society of Joplin, MO. (The Morning Sun, February
15, 2012, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
SIMMONS, VERNA E.
PITTSBURG — Verna E. Simmons 93, of Pittsburg, KS died 2:40 pm Monday February 13, 2012 at Via Christi Hospital
in Pittsburg, KS following an illness.
Verna was born September 6, 1918 in Alanthus, MO the daughter of John and Lulu (Jennings) Boatwright. She lived
most of her adult life in Gladstone, MO and was a graduate of Stanberry High School in Stanberry, MO.
On August 29, 1937 Verna married Herschel “Shorty” Simmons in Kansas City, MO; he preceded her in death in 1991.
Verna worked at Security National Bank in Kansas City, KS in the Safety Deposit Department for 20 years. She was
a member of the Hillside Christian Church in Gladstone, MO; a one time president of the Safety Deposit Organization
for Kansas and Missouri; 50 year member of the Raggedy Anne Club; enjoyed traveling to Europe and Asia in the Camera
and Adventurers Club; ran a gas station with her husband in Rea, MO and family was the most important treasure
in her life.
Survivors include her daughter Elizabeth Ann Willis of Pittsburg, KS; siblings John Boatwright, Ruby Audeen Gregory
and Jerry Boatwright; grandchildren Michael Willis and wife Marlene of Pittsburg, KS and Brad Willis and wife Dorothy
of Edmond, OK; great-grandchildren Mackenzie, Duncan, Madelyn and Garrett Willis and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, siblings Ila Motzkus, Marvin Boatwright and Leland Boatwright
and son-in-law Roger Willis.
Memorial Services will be 2 pm Saturday February 18, 2012 at the Bath Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS with
Rev. Aric Bokker officiating. Burial will take place at a later date in High Ridge Cemetery in Stanberry, MO.
Family will receive friends from 1-2 pm Saturday prior to the service. In lieu of flowers the family suggests
expressions of sympathy be in the form of memorials to the Friends of the Performing Arts at Pittsburg High School
and/or her great-grandson’s Boy Scout Troop in Edmond, OK. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to the Bath
Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762. Arrangements are by Bath Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg,
KS. (The Morning Sun, February 16, 2012, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
TERLIP, BOB
FRONTENAC — Bob Terlip, 81 of Frontenac died at 8:55 a.m. Wednesday February 15, 2012 at the Via Christi Hospital
in Pittsburg.
He was born November 14, 1930 in Frontenac, KS the son of Vincent (Buck) and Louise (Leksha) Terlip.
Bob attended schools in Cockerill and was a 1948 graduate of Frontenac High School.
He married Patricia Menghini on August 7, 1954 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac, she survives
at the home.
Bob worked with his parents at Terlip Grocery Store on Grasshopper Corner in Frontenac. He began raising Mink
in 1948 which led him into the pet food and food business; beginning with TTT Foods, Springdale Ice Cold Storage
Company-Springdale, AR; Rogers Ice Cold Storage-Rogers, AR; Strongheart Pet Food- Kansas City, KS, Momence, IL
and Rush Springs, OK; Triple T Foods Dixieland, Rogers, AR; Natural Life Pet Products, Frontenac, KS; Four R Poultry,
Wheaton, MO; Feather Fiber Corp. Frontenac, KS; TTT Pipeline Altamont, KS and Camptown Race Track, Frontenac, KS.
Bob was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Frontenac Knights of Columbus, he received a distinguished
service award for 30 years of service for the Frontenac School Board and was president for 14 years, big supporter
of Frontenac Athletics and the Frontenac Education Foundation, an Outstanding Alumni. He loved to fish and hunt
and race greyhounds. His greatest love was his family and being active in the lives of his Grandchildren and Great-grandchildren
Survivors include his wife Patricia of the home; two sons Chris Terlip and wife Kristy, Kurt Terlip and wife
Kim all of Frontenac; 4 grandsons Kaleb Terlip and wife Beth, Colby, Corbin and Colin; 3 great-grandchildren Kal,
Kyler and Brinkley. He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson Corey Terlip and a brother Frank Terlip.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Friday February 17, 2012 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac
with Father Thomas Stroot as celebrant. Burial will follow in the Mount Carmel Cemetery. The parish rosary will
be recited at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Friskel Funeral Home in Frontenac where friends may call after 3 p.m. Memorials
may be made to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, The Frontenac Education Foundation or the Frontenac United Methodist
Church. Memorials may be brought by or mailed to the Friskel Funeral Home 230 E. McKay/ P.O. Box 907 Frontenac,
KS 66763. (The Morning Sun, February 16, 2012, submitted by Jody Edens Spencer)
