Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Deloris Mae (Allen) Gayman

Deloris Mae (Allen) Gayman, 70, rural Schell City, transitioned to the Church Triumphant on June 30, 2009. Deloris was born in Newhall, CA, on Nov. 9, 1938, the third child born to Robert and Wilma Allen of Moundville, who along with a granddaughter preceded her in death.

Deloris graduated from Sheldon High School in 1956 and was employed at Hallmark Cards in Kansas City. Deloris became acquainted with Dan Gayman, a student at Kansas City Metropolitan Junior College, and they married on June 28, 1958.
During the early years of their marriage, Deloris worked with and accompanied her husband, an evangelist in Churches of Christ, throughout Southwest Missouri. Following her husband’s graduation from Southwest Missouri State University in 1964, Deloris and her family lived and taught in both Schell City and Drexel.

In 1961, Dan entered active duty in the U.S. Air Force during the Berlin Crisis under the presidency of John F. Kennedy. Following Dan’s discharge from the Air Force, Dan and Deloris returned to Drexel and remained there until they moved to Evergreen, CO, where they became involved in a Christian training institute for youth.

Throughout her married life, Deloris was committed to her home church, the Church of Israel, where she served many roles – 25 years as organist, choir member and tenor for the female quartet, Higher Ground. Deloris taught elementary classes when Christian Heritage Academy (with current enrollment of 60 students) first opened in 1977. For over 30 years, Deloris worked as secretary for her church and assisted with evangelistic meetings, traveling and holding church services in almost every state in the United States, as well as Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Deloris was a great drive and loved reading maps; she was familiar with every major highway in America. Deloris was a zealous Christian, working tirelessly for her church and assisting her husband in every aspect of ministry. Deloris was regarded as a cornerstone pillar in the church where she served all of her adult life.

Deloris was very devoted to her family of six children, their spouses and her 32 grandchildren. She was a devoted wife and mother and generously served the needs of her family. Her table was always set for a stranger and her charitable nature was constantly displayed at a table lavished with food she had prepared. She sought no credit for anything but was a server in almost everything. Deloris adored her family and her home was a frequent gathering place for her delicious meals. She will be sorely missed by her family and congregation as well numerous friends throughout the Untied State and foreign countries.

We celebrate the life of Deloris Gayman and take comfort in knowing that she rests in the presence of Jesus Christ and will one day share in the glory of the resurrection and share eternity with those she so dearly loved on earth.
S
he is survived by her husband, Dan Gayman, of the home in rural Schell City; three sons – Douglas, and Candace Gayman – rural Schell City, and their children, Jessica, Jenna, Joseph, Jeremy, Joshua, James and Josiah; Robin, and her husband, John Coleman, rural Schell City, and their children, Jordan, John Adam, Justin, Andrew, Joanna, Erika, Jackson, Jillian and Eden; Timothy, and Sarah Gayman – Phoenix, AZ, and their children, Jacob, Jared, Victoria and Benjamin; Julie, and her husband, Reed Benson – rural Schell City, and their children, Katarina, Abigail, Zachary, Lauren, Eric, Luke and Seth; Dana, and her husband, Nathan Buttorff – rural Schell City, and their children, Austin, Anastasia, Elijah and Alexia; and Lieutenant Jonathan, and Sarah Gayman, stationed in Twentynine Palms, CA; and great-grandson, Jason Gayman – North Carolina.

Pastor Dan Gayman conducted the services Saturday, July 4, in the Church of Israel, rural Schell City. Interment was in Green Lawn Cemetery, Schell City, under the direction of Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City. Pallbearers were her sons and sons-in-law.

Memorials are suggested to the Church of Israel.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Edna Rosalie (Fowler) Davis

Edna Rosalie (Fowler) Davis, 77, Schell City, passed from this life on Monday, June 29, 2009, in Cedar County Memorial Hospital in El Dorado Springs, after losing her battle with cancer. She was born on June 17, 1932, in the home near Cassville, to Elvin Monroe and Clara Matilda (Horner) Fowler. She was the middle child of the seven children, four sons and three daughters.

At the age of 10, she was baptized under the bridge at Flat Creek near Mineral Springs. She left school after the eighth grade to help care for her ill mother and take care of her three younger brothers. During this time, she was home schooled. She later received her G.E.D. and then attended Southwest Baptist College for one year before marrying Vesper Davis on Aug. 21, 1955, in Tulsa, OK. Together they became the parents of four sons while living near Walsh, CO, and Bloomfield, NM. In 1964 they moved to rural Nevada, making their home there until Vesper’s passing in 1992. Edna then moved from the farm, to be closer to one of her sons.

Edna enjoyed quilting, knitting, sewing and shopping. She was once asked if she had ever made a purchase that she regretted. Her answer was flatly, “No.” She greatly enjoyed visiting at the Schell City Quilt Guild, at Senior Citizens gatherings, talking on the phone or just visiting with anyone who might stop by to see her. She was informally “adopted” by the Vantellman family where she enjoyed spending time at numerous family gatherings. Edna was such a sweet spirit, always happy and positive, seeing only the good in people. Even in her final days, she always smiled.

Aside from her husband, Edna was preceded in death by two brothers, Calvin Fowler and John Fowler; and one, Sister, Edith Trahern.

Survivors include her four sons – Deland Davis, and his wife, Debbie – El Dorado Springs, Lavoe Davis, and his wife, Lill – Nevada; Nolan Davis, and his wife, Karen, Stockton, and Grady Davis, and his wife, Kelly – Schell City; two brothers, Ed Fowler, and his wife, Nadine – Fargo, OK, and Fred Fowler, and his wife, Ann Neal – Jackson, MS; one sister, Marie McCoy – Wichita, KS; 11 grandchildren – Chandra Crossley, Chanelle Wentworth, Eric Davis, Aaron Davis, Angie Bash, Wesley Fetch, Chris Slattery, Britni Davis, Brooke Davis, Kelci Davis and Grant Davis; seven great grandchildren – Austin Bash, Addison Bash, Alyson Bash, Stephen Davis, Clare Luther, Karrick Crossley and Makaela Wentworth; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends.
Services were held Thursday, July 2, in the Schell City Christian Church with Brother Brent Bland officiating. Musical selections were provided by Kelci Davis and the Smith Sisters. Pallbearers were – Eric Davis, Aaron Davis, Aaron Bash, Grant Davis, Wesley Fetch and Dennis Wentworth. Honorary pallbearers were – Kyle Slattery, Doug Vantellman and Dennis Vantellman. Interment was in Newton Burial Park, Nevada.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Schell City Christian Church. Arrangements were entrusted to the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City.

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Richard E. King

Richard E. King, 75, Bowling Green, KY, formerly of Dederick, passed away at the Hospice of Southern Kentucky, Inc. in Bowling Green on Saturday, June 27, 2009. He was born May 12, 1934, in Dederick to William P. and Vonda Price King.

He was a Supervisory Enumerator for NASDA, retired after 30 years with the American Can Co. in Englewood, IL.
He was a U.S. Army veteran.

Richard was an avid sports fan and was a big W.K.U. Football fan and he especially loved watching his children and grandchildren play sports.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother. He loved his farm and working outdoors. He was a loving caregiver to his late wife, Carol.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Carol Anne King; brother, Donald King; and sister, Ruth Elaine Harris.

Survivors include: one son, Jim King and wife, Lisa – Bowling Green, KY; one daughter, Kathy “Kitty” Sawyer and husband, Tim”– Ft. Atkinson, WI; one brother, Stanley King – Independence; two sisters, Betty King – Overland Park, and Marge Murphy and husband, A.J. Dearborn; six grandchildren – Preston King, Josh Sawyer, Katee Sawyer, Molley Sawyer, Annie Sawyer and Wesley King; sister and brother-in-law, Harold and Mary Bullard – Bowling Green, KY; and several nieces and nephews.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Hospice of Southern Kentucky, Inc., 5872 Scottsville Rd., Bowling Green, KY 42104.

John D. Yeoman

John D. Yeoman, 65, Ozark, formerly of El Dorado Springs, passed away suddenly Saturday, June 27, 2009, in his home. He was born Jan. 27, 1944, in Parsons, KS, the son of Paul and Lena (Willey) Yeoman.

John was a 1962 graduate of the El Dorado Springs High School.

On May 16, 1980, he was united in marriage to Charlotte Applegate, who preceded him in death on May 8, 2006.

John retired from the U.S. Postal Service as a door-to-door mail carrier in Springfield. After retirement, he enjoyed directing a puppet ministry at Seminole Baptist Temple, several schools and other churches. He created stage props, colorful costumes and spent many hours working with children.

John was a talented artist with a degree in Art. He attended theater performances, plays, movies and was a member of the local Ozark Art Gallery.

From 1966 to 1972, John served as a reserve officer with the United States Army and attained the rank of Second Lieutenant.
John was a faithful man and reliable member of Seminole Baptist Temple of Springfield. In addition to his wife, John was preceded in death by his brother, Gary.

He is survived by his daughters and their spouses – Jennifer and Allen Tofuri – Springfield, Sharla and Jeff Buthod – Jefferson City, and Sonya and Justin McDaniel – Asher, OK; three grandchildren – Blake and Tara Buthod and Christian Turk; mother-in-law, Edythe Applegate – Ozark; sister-in-law, Linda Yeoman – Des Moines, IA; several nieces, nephews and caring friends.
Services were Tuesday, June 30, in Seminole Baptist Temple, Springfield with Rev. Don Baier and Rev. Jerry Applegate officiating. Burial with full military honors was in the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery, under the direction of Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark.

Friday, June 26, 2009

Mary Magdalene Norval


Mary Magdalene Norval, 66, was born October 4, 1942, in Butler to Edward and Stella Irene Lukenbill Elliott. She passed away June 26, 2009, at the Cedar County Memorial Hospital in El Dorado Springs after several years of declining health.

On May 9, 1965, Mary was united in marriage to John Edward Norval. Most of their married life was spent in the greater El Dorado Springs area. John Edward and Mary moved into El Dorado Springs seven years ago.

Mary was preceded in death by one son, Joe Dean Norval; and a sister, Tudy Brown.

She is survived by her husband of 44 years, John Edward Norval, of the home; one daughter, Letta Collins - Kansas City; one son, Julian (John Norval III) – Butler; one brother - Ed Elliott and wife, Fannie; one sister, Edith Cartwright and husband, Ed; a daughter-in-law, Norma Norval; and grand angels including - Stephanie, Kenny Jr., Steven, Gary Julian, Shaun, Debbie, Jessica, Brandi, Michael and Patrick; great grand angels include - Kayne, Chase, Aryanna, Ariel, Kyler, Alisia, Caydon, Allisa, Cameron, Heaven, Malachi, Keira, Brook, Abbie, Anr`ey, Christian and Layla; and several nieces and nephews.

She will be missed by all. She will always be in our memories and our hearts.

Mom never turned anyone away. Her door was always open to anyone who needed a hug or a meal or a place to lay their head. Mom was the most loving and caring person God blessed the earth with.

Her heart and ears were always open. With a hug and a soft piece of advise she could fix all of our problems. We will miss those hugs. Guess God needed her hugs for now.

Services were held Monday, June 29, in Sheldon Funeral Home with Pastor Mike Norval officiating. Lori Norval sang Amazing Grace and I’ll Fly Away. Casketbearers were Marty McGee, Miah Rifenburg, Nick Bullard, Elmer Sharer Gary Norval and Harold Johnson.

Interment was in Pleasant Springs Cemetery under direction of Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Virginia Mae (Pace) Breeding

Virginia Mae (Pace) Breeding, 80, Cedar County, was born in Cedar County on Sept. 2, 1928, to Rex Pace and Mae Pace. She passed away on June 24, 2009, at her home as the result of natural causes.

She lived nearly all of her life in Cedar County, attending grade school at Sandridge and graduating from El Dorado Springs High School in 1945. Her education continued in the 1980s with degrees from SMSU.

Virginia was married on May 24, 1946, to Carl Breeding in Fort Scott, KS.

She lived south of El Dorado Springs on a farm for over 60 years and loved sewing and gardening.
Virginia was a kind and generous woman who will be missed by those who knew her.

She is survived by four children – Daniel and his wife, Susan – Loan Jack, Dennis and his wife, Janet – Newalla, OK, Laura Smith and her husband, Ron – Sarcoxie, and Mark – Independence; 10 grandchildren – Andrew Breeding, Elizabeth Breeding, Robert Carl Breeding, John Paul Breeding, Leon Breeding, Leslie Morris, Lesia Dee, Leland Morris, Russell Smith and Joe Smith; 13 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Gary Pace – Boca Raton, FL, and Harold Pace – Granby; one aunt, Eunice Wilkins – El Dorado Springs; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held Sunday, June 28, in the Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Dana Taylor officiating and Karen Rains providing music. Interment followed in the Sandridge Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.
Pallbearers were – Leslie Morris, Leland Morris, Leon Breeding, Levi Breeding, John Paul Breeding, Russell Smith, Kent Henry and John Bruce.

Memorial donations may be made to Sandridge Cemetery and left at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Pamela Jean Ritter

Pamela Jean Ritter, 60, formerly of Weaubleau, was born Nov. 1, 1948, to her loving parents, Frank and Donna Morris. Pam left this world on June 24, 2009, to be with our Lord in Heaven.

On Oct. 2, 1971, Pam was united in marriage to Leonard Ritter. To this union four children were born.
Pam lived in Weaubleau for over 18 years when she decided to move closer to Springfield due to illness and her battle with several types of cancer. Over the years, Pam and Leonard lived in Columbia, Ava, Crane and Weaubleau due to his job with the telephone companies. For a time they raised racehorses.

Pam was a supervisor for State Farm Insurance in Columbia in the 1970’s. She worked at Faultless Starch in Humansville, Tracker Boats in Bolivar and was a professional seamstress. Pam made wedding dresses while the family lived in Crane. Her hobbies included painting, folk art, ceramics, sewing and quilting. She was a dedicated mother and homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard; and her father, Frank Morris.

Survivors include her children - Deidra Ritter - Nixa, Randall Ritter - Ozark, Shawna Stephens and husband, Kevin - Galena, and Jackie Cain and husband, Kyle - Fair Grove; her mother, Donna Morris; her two beloved sisters, Linda McCullick and Brenda Riggs; eight grandchildren - Russell, Ashley, Kelby, Christopher, Megan, Jorgan, Trinity and Kyler; sister in-law, Lana; and daughter in-law, Susan.

She will be greatly missed by her family and all of her friends

Services were held Saturday, June 27, in Robinson Cemetery, Weaubleau, under the direction of Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs, with Rev. Kenneth Gibson officiating. Special music was Amazing Grace and Blessed Assurance by soloist Linda Gibson.

Casketbearers were – Christopher Loomis, Randall Ritter, Kevin Stephens, Justin Rien, Russell Ritter, Kyle Cain and Christopher Ritter.

Theodore (Ted) Wayne McPeak

Theodore (Ted) Wayne McPeak, 68, El Dorado Springs, passed away June 24, 2009, at his home. He was born Nov. 15, 1940, in Cedar County, northeast of Filley to Theodore (Jr.) and Golden Roxie (Austin) McPeak, at the family’s two-room farm home, the fifth of eight children.

He was baptized at an early age at First Christian Church in El Dorado Springs.

Ted was a man with a caring, generous, tender heart, with many talents and was an exceptionally bright student, as was revealed when he enrolled, late, in high school trigonometry class and soon became a teacher’s helper, explaining the subject to his classmates.

In 1958, Ted graduated from El Dorado Springs High School with a scholarship to a university in Chicago which he attended for one semester at which time he joined the Navy and then transferred to the Marines on April 30, 1959. He served with them for 15 years. His specialty was in electronics. He was sent to update the radar equipment at the Marine base in Cuba, during the Cuban Missile Crisis (The Bay of Pigs). Ted continued his education through correspondences courses and while serving several years in Japan, he learned to speak and write the Japanese language. He used this skill later in his travels and as an international consultant in the development of the wireless communications systems.

After being honorably discharged from the Marines, Ted made his home in Chicago, IL, where he was recruited by the Motorola Corporation and led the company in securing the original FCC Charter to develop the first wireless cell phone. He was instrumental in the development of this revolutionary technology among many other cutting-edge innovations in the communication industry and Motorola recognized him as Employee of the Year for this work. In later years, Ted did free-lance work, writing technical manuals for large electric companies.

Ted celebrated almost 25 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Jill Cartier, who preceded him in death in 1992. They enjoyed many shared passions, including traveling the world, culinary arts, photography and, most of all, they lived a life of generosity, bringing many blessings to their family and friends. Ted dearly loved his godchild, stepchildren and grandchildren (he had thousands of pictures of them). He also dearly loved all of his many nieces and nephews.

When the need arose, Ted returned to his roots in El Dorado Springs to spend several years as the primary caregiver for his mother, Golden McPeak. Just as he had blessed and cared for her in his early years, he was there for her in the final years of her life, so she was able to stay in her own home for several extra years and he continued to bless her by making her life in the nursing home more pleasant.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Jill; two stepdaughters; his sister, Helen McPeak Jobson; and a brother-in-law, Royal Nelsen.

He is survived by his stepson, Lance; and by his brothers and sisters – Wyona Nelsen, Howard and Joan McPeak – all of El Dorado Springs, Mildred and Paul Veach – Joplin, Jim and Pat McPeak – Defiance, OH, Victor and Elizabeth McPeak – Sunrise, AZ, and Golden and Phil Kennedy – Colorado Springs, CO; and by his many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at the Pape Christian Church, north of Tiffin, at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 26. Cremation was under the direction of the Sheldon Funeral Home, in El Dorado Springs. He will be placed beside his wife, Jill, in Chicago, at a later date.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Lucious Alfred 'Frog' Morlan


Lucious Alfred “Frog” Morlan, 88, passed away June 23, 2009. He was born Aug. 18, 1920, in Birdsong to Oda and Emma (Ellerman) Morlan, the fourth of 11 children.

He was united in marriage to Ardath McWilliams on March 23, 1940. To this union two sons were born, Ed and Kent. He served in the Civilian Conservation Camp in 1938 and in the Navy from March 3, 1944, to Jan. 7, 1946, aboard the USS West Virginia. Frog operated Morlan’s Service Station for 30 years and he and his wife built the El Dorado Motel in 1958. He served on the El Dorado Springs School Board for eight years. He was elected Sheriff of Cedar County in 1976 and served eight years before retiring to raise cattle on the farm near Filley.

Frog was exceptionally strong and energetic - baling 931 large bales of hay in 2008. He was always on a quest for a better birddog or quarter horse and still owned his last horse, Peppy. Frog was a 56 year member of Clintonville Lodge #482.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings: Herman, Jewell Burns, Olen, Dorothy Root, Velma Burns and Melba.
Survivors include his wife, Ardath, of the home; two sons, Ed and wife, Sherry -El Dorado Springs, and Kent and wife, Terrie - Tulsa, OK; grandsons, York - Blue Springs, and Tad - Springfield; great grandsons, Jacob and Caleb Morlan; and great granddaughter, Lauren Hurlburt; sisters - Cloe Brandom - Stockton, Francis Pinkman - El Dorado Springs, and Maybelle Preston - Joplin; one brother, Delbert - El Dorado Springs; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Services were held Saturday, June 27, in Sheldon Funeral Home with Rev. Brent Bland officiating and Kent Morlan providing the eulogy. Pianist Barry Witt played “Amazing Grace” and “How Great Thou Art.” Clintonville Lodge #482 provided Masonic Services. VFW Post #257 provided the military services. Casketbearers were Jacob Morlan, Larry Burns, Ralph Burns, Ron Pinkman, John Bruce and Loyd Burns.

Interment was in Clintonville Cemetery under the direction of Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Lawrence H. McMullin

Lawrence H. McMullin,67, left this world to a better place on June 22, 2009, after a three year battle with lung cancer. He was born Feb. 23, 1942, in Kansas City, the son of George and Mary McMullin.

Larry spent his childhood between Kansas City and the farm outside El Dorado Springs. He spent his life at many jobs in construction. He would help anyone with any project.

Larry was a U.S. Army veteran, where he spent six years as a cook for a hospital unit.

He was preceded to heaven by his father, George; his mother and step-dad, whom he considered his dad, Mary and Robert Belcher; a son, Shawn Lee McMullin; an infant son; and a sister-in-law, Linda Franks, and her husband, Keith.

His survivors include his wife of almost 20 years, Sharon McMullin, of the home; one son, Robert McMullin, and wife, Claudia – Pleasant, KS; one daughter, Lora Whitsell and husband, Bryce – Princeton, TX; a granddaughter, Holly Nelson – of the U.S. Marines, California; stepdaughter, Sherri Rumbo – Harrisonville, and her children, Michelle Winn (Tim) – Blue Springs, Jeremy Dickerson (Sarah) Independence, and Jason Brockert – Booneville, NY; stepdaughter, Marsha Sartain – Blue Springs; the love of his life, great-granddaughter Natasha Winn; a sister, Marion Clemmons, and husband, Hose D. – Tunas; a half-brother, Gary Dean, and his wife, Barbara – Weatherby Lake; his mother-in-law, Wilma Martens – Adrian; his step-mother, Fern McMullen – El Dorado Springs; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Betty and Gary Nichols – Archie, and Diana and Don Moore – Barnett; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; many friends and his dog, Angel.

Services were held Saturday, June 27, in the Royer-Hays Funeral Home, Blue Springs. Cremation followed the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Blue Springs Methodist Church or the Cancer Fund.

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Dorothy Elizabeth (Gordon) Reed

Dorothy Elizabeth (Gordon) Reed, 93, formerly of El Dorado Springs, was born on the family farm on Horse Creek on Nov. 19, 1915, to John Bert and Sadie May Gordon. She passed away at her home in Burden, KS, on June 18, 2009.

Dorothy’s mother died in 1918. In 1919 her father married Lois Curtis. Dorothy grew up on the farm and attended Gordon School. In 1938 she went to Green River, WY, to work for the Union Pacific Railroad. There, she met and married Alfred Reed in 1939. In 1943 they moved to California and worked at Richmond #2. She was the first female journeyman welder to work on ships on the docks.

She and Al lived in several states after World War II. After 23 years in Yreka, CA, they and their daughter, Lacy Elizabeth, moved to Missouri in 1976 and lived in Stockton. In 1999 they moved to Kansas for Al’s health. Al died in December of 2000.

Dorothy loved young folks and worked with 4-H and the Girl Scouts. She loved to hand stitch quilts and knit afghans.
Her favorite songs were Give Me A Star and I Learned To Pray. Her favorite charities were the Disabled Veterans and the Salvation Army.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her step-mother; her husband, Al; four brothers – Lester, Russell, Bertie and John; and two sisters, Flossie and Alice.

Survivors include: her daughter, Lacy Lovewell, and husband, Sonny – Cambridge, KS; one grandson, Jonathon Clawson, and wife, Sarah; two great-granddaughters, Mariah and Piper; and two sisters, Donnie Reynolds and Mabel Gordon.
Graveside services were held at Mound Cemetery south of El Dorado Springs on June 22, with Jess Reynolds and Steve Counts officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home – El Dorado Springs.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Care of Kansas or the Salvation Army.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Raymond D. Rice



Raymond D. Rice, 79, El Dorado Springs, went home on June 17, 2009, after a long fight with numerous health issues. He was born Oct. 7, 1929, in Independence to George and Gertrude (Himes) Rice, the third of five children.

Ray’s early years were split between Independence and the family farm near Taberville.

Ray entered the military service in May 1948, retiring with the rank of Major from the Air Force in September 1976 serving in the Atomic Weapons Testing in Nevada and as a C-123 pilot and Military Advisor during the early years of Vietnam. During the later years of his military career, Ray served as an instructor pilot, base operations manager at multiple bases and his last assignment was manager of the Aero Club at Bergstrom AFB, TX.

Ray was an avid bowler, winning many awards throughout the years. He also enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting.

In 1977 Ray met and married his second wife, Sue Holloway, in Austin, TX. They moved back to Ray’s home place at Taberville in 1981 and resided there until June 2008 when ill health forced a move into town.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers - Grant, Don and William; and sister, Ellen Greer.

In addition to Sue, Ray is survived by son, James, and grandson, Jimmy - Ballground, GA; triplet daughters - Sandra Rice, Sara Ledoux and husband - Vic, grandchildren - Victor, Christopher and Jennifer - all of Woodstock, GA, and Susan Broad and husband, Matt - Moss Beach, CA; and many, many nieces and nephews.

Services were held Monday, June 22, in Sheldon Funeral Home with Minister David Studer officiating and at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 25, in Underwood Funeral Home, Marysville, OH, with Rev. Richard Teller officiating. Niece Peggy Trenta played Ashoken Farewell on the violin. Other music was Good-bye My Friend, One Day At A Time and Amazing Grace. The Air Force Honor Guard conducted the military services.

Pallbearers were - Joe Barger, Kevin Rice, Jack Holloway, Bennie Livengood, Steven Rice, Jack Kinnamon, Eli Choate and Don Fugate. Interment was in York Cemetery, York Center, OH.

Arrangements were by Sheldon Funeral Home El Dorado Springs.

Memorial donations may be made to VFW #257 in El Dorado Springs.

Friday, June 12, 2009

William M. 'Bill' Foster

William M. “Bill” Foster, 89, Macon, MO, passed away Friday, June 12, 2009, at Macon Samaritan Memorial Hospital, following a broken hip which occurred on his 89th birthday. He was born May 24, 1920, in Texhoma, OK, the son of Traber and Lanora (Gwin) Foster.

On Oct. 3, 1941, in Yuma, AZ, in a double wedding with his brother, Howard, and Mary Foster, he was united in marriage to Mable E. Zach.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of sixty-seven years; two brothers, Howard and George and a son-in-law, David Decker.

Bill graduated from LaCygne High School in LaCygne, KS.

From 1941 to 1945, William served in the United States Army in the South Pacific, New Guinea, Southern Philippines and Ryukyus before being honorably discharged on Dec. 5, 1945, at Fort MacArthur, CA.

He was employed in the agriculture equipment business his entire work career including part owner of Foster-Unruh John Deere in Montezuma, KS, and employed with John Deere and Massey-Ferguson. He retired as District Sales Manager for Massey in 1983 and moved to El Dorado Springs, where he and Mable enjoyed 25 years in their home. He moved to Bristol Manor
Assisted Living in Macon, in October of 2008.

Bill was active in many service organizations and was a 50 year member of the Freemasons. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in El Dorado Springs.

He was considered a handy man who was always quick to help a friend and he enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening.
Bill is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Ronald and Peggy Foster - LaPlata; one daughter, Marsha Decker - Republic; four grandsons - Bill Foster, and wife, Tina - Macks Creek, Jon Foster - St. Louis, Ronnie Foster, and wife, Dawn - St. Louis, and Matt Zammar - Kansas City; four great-grandchildren - Kyle, Jacob, Brandy and Emily Ann Foster; three sisters - Mildred Howard - Tyler, TX, Jean Mason - Mt. Vernon, TX, and Joy Freeman - Littleton, CO; two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Streit - Portland, OR, and Bernice Zach - Lockwood; and many other extended family members and friends whose company he greatly enjoyed.

Bill has been cremated and a graveside memorial service in his honor will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 27, at the 96 Cemetery in LaCygne, KS.

Memorial donations may be made to Victory Mission, P.O. Box 2884, Springfield, MO 65801.

Arrangements were taken care of by Travis Funeral Chapel, LaPlata.

John (Jack) Albert Kinnamon Jr.


John (Jack) Albert Kinnamon Jr., 83, El Dorado Springs, was born to John and Annie Kinnamon in Alabama on July 18, 1925. He was the fifth of seven children. His father was a carpenter and a policeman, and his mother was a nurse. Jack passed away June 12, 2009, in Warrensburg, with his wife of 62 years by his side.

Jack was a wartime veteran of World War II. He enlisted in the United States Navy on Oct. 9, 1943. He served as a cook and butcher on four patrol vessels and ended his service in Pensacola, FL. He received the rank of Seaman First Class and was awarded the Victory and American Theatre Ribbons. Jack was honorably discharged on May 31, 1946.

After his military service, Jack settled in the Odessa/Kansas City area. He met and married Wanda while working in El Dorado Springs. They were married on May 2, 1947, and were married 62 years. Wanda had a child, Kay, who was six months old when they married and together they had a son, Jackie. As a family, they enjoyed traveling and they traveled from Florida to Washington, DC, to Chicago to Colorado, Wyoming, California and Texas. These trips were some of John’s happiest times.

Jack worked for Mid-America Dairy and retired as Lab Foreman. During his 36 years of employment, he never missed a day of work. He enjoyed making wooden signs to give to his family and friends. During his retirement, Jack continued his passion for gardening. His garden and flowers were a source of pride to him. He also enjoyed reading and fishing and watching all sports.
He was a member of the First Baptist Church of El Dorado Springs for 60 years. He was a member of the Jaycees for most of his adult life was one of the originators of the Youth Recreation Board and he coached Little League Baseball for many years.
Jack suffered several strokes and had problems with diabetes, high blood pressure and Alzheimer’s during his last years.

Preceding Jack in death were his parents; two brothers, Robert and Jerry; and two sisters, Billie and Ann.

Jack leaves behind his wife of 62 years, Wanda, of El Dorado Springs; one daughter, Kay Rethemeyer, and husband, Robert – Lee’s Summit; one son, Jack R. Kinnamon – El Dorado Springs; one granddaughter, Robin Knowles, and husband, William – Friendswood, TX; one grandson, Rustin Rethemeyer – Chicago, IL; and two great-grandchildren, Alyssa and Blake Knowles – Friendswood, TX; his mother-in-law, Grace Debler – El Dorado Springs; two sisters, Beverly Brown – Blue Springs, and Betty Butner – Garden City; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Services were held Monday, June 15, in Bland-Hackleman Chapel. Brother G.H. Sublett officiated the service and Ruth Brown provided the music. Interment followed in the El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Pallbearers were Jim Brown, Bob Brown, Lawrence Hicks, Clarence Hackleman, Bill Swindler and Robert Rethemeyer.

Memorial donations may be made to the Veterans Home in Warrensburg in memory of Jack Kinnamon. These donations may be left at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Vera Ruth Souza

Vera Ruth Souza, 90, Butler, passed away Thursday, June 11, 2009, in Adrian Manor. She was born Aug. 26, 1918, in Providence, RI, the daughter of Alfred and Ruth Linell Smith. She moved to Schell City in 1942 from Rhode Island and lived there until 2001 when she moved to Butler.

She married Eugene Souza in 1930 and he preceded her in death in 1999.

Vera loved going to church, gardening, sewing, reading and playing Scrabble.

She leaves one son, David Souza, and his wife, Betty; four daughters – Sandra Fenton – Butler, Lynn Craig, and her husband, Eldon – Holden, Beverly Maus, and her husband, David – Nevada, and Carol Mallory – Holden. She loved her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Graveside services and interment under the direction of the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home were held Saturday, June 13, in the Green Lawn Cemetery, Schell City.

Donations may be made to the Salvation Army or Gideon Bible Organization.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Rachel Bough

Rachel Bough, 92, Wichita, KS, passed away on June 9, 2009. She was born Oct. 16, 1916, in Montevallo, the second youngest of 12 children.

She married Buddy Paul Bough at the age of 14. To this union were born eight children.

Rachel was a homemaker all her life, residing in Missouri until 1961 when she moved to Wichita, KS, with her three youngest children.

Rachel was preceded in death by her husband; 10 siblings; and three children.

Survivors include one sister of El Dorado Springs; five children – Judy Garret – Salem, OR, Richard Bough – Shawnee, OK, Michael Bough – Pitcairn, PA, Douglas Bough – Sedgwick, KS, and Eunice Susan Bough – Wichita, KS; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous other relatives and close friends.

Services will begin at 10 a.m. Friday, June 12, in Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs, with Chaplin Roger Lambre officiating. Burial will be in Sandridge Cemetery under direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to Southern Care Hospice for their loving care and support.

Monday, June 8, 2009

Vernon Dale Robertson

Vernon Dale Robertson, 89, El Dorado Springs, was born June 8, 1920, in Wright, KS, to George and Ovie Robertson. He passed away June 8, 2009, in Community Springs Healthcare Facility in El Dorado Springs.

Vernon was an Army Veteran of WWII and a life member of the VFW.

He and his wife, Nell Ruth, have been longtime residents of the El Dorado Springs Community. He was a retired eyeglass lens grinder.

Vernon is survived by his loving wife, Nell Ruth, of the home.

No services are planned at this time. Final disposition, cremation, under the direction of the Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Friday, June 5, 2009

Glen Van Bummel



Glen Van Bummel, 83, passed away at Christian Health Care, Nevada, on Friday evening June 5, 2009. He was born Oct. 8, 1925, in David City, NE, to William and Laurel (Smith) Van Bummel.

Glen was a member of the Butler County 4-H Group. He developed a love for showing hogs, sheep and especially Black Angus cattle. Shortly after he graduated from David City High School in 1943, his family moved to Lamar where he and his father continued farming.

On July 2, 1949, he married Leora Gill Murphey. To this union three children were born.

In 1954, he went to work for Community Lumber Company earning $47.50 a week. He moved his family to El Dorado Springs in 1957 where he became the manager of Community Lumber Co. From 1965-1968 in addition to operating the lumber yard, Glen and Leora built and managed the Bee’s Restaurant. In 1968 Glen was promoted to general manager of the Community Lumber Yards.

Glen’s love of El Dorado was shown by’“His take the bull by the horns attitude”. He was instrumental in bringing new businesses and upgrades to the community. He semi-retired in 1986, but continued as an advisor of the Lexington Yard.
Probably Glen’s favorite hymn was the Old Rugged Cross. He loved it so much that he sang it to all three of his children, all seven grandchildren and had continued the tradition with the great grand children. (They had to listen to it if they wanted to or not: he was going to sing it.)

Glen was looking forward to celebrating his 60th wedding anniversary on July 2. He was planning on inviting all his family and friends to dinner at Chicken Annie’s.

He was a member of The First Baptist Church .

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Leora. Also surviving are his children; Claudia and Gary Hardison - El Dorado Springs, Kathy and Gordon Pierce - Lexington, MO and Richard and Glenda Van Bummel - El Dorado Springs; seven grandchildren - Dawn and Randy Merryman, Rindi and Paul Burns - Bolivar, Erik and Mary Elaine Pierce - Grain Valley, Ryan and Mary Elizabeth Pierce - Odessa, and Laurel, Katelyn and G.W. Van Bummel - El Dorado Springs; six great-grandchildren: Camden, Ellie and Matthew Burns and Grant and Will Merryman – Bolivar and Karly Pierce - Grain Valley; one sister, Delores Corker - Overland Park, KS; a sister-in-law, Arletta Probert - Jasper; one brother-in-law, Carl Sikes - Baxter Springs, KS; several nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be given to the First Baptist Church Building Fund in care of Sheldon Funeral Home El Dorado Springs.

Services were held Monday, June 8, at the First Baptist Church with John Holt and Brent Bland officiating. Erik Pierce sang “The Old Rugged Cross” and Mary Elizabeth Pierce sang “Amazing Grace.” Rita Farris was the pianist. Casketbearers were Glen “GW” Van Bummel, Randy Merryman, Ryan Pierce, Paul Burns, Steven Probert, John Corker and Erik Pierce. Honorary casketbearers were Douglas Probert, Sam Corker, Charles Rice, David Rice, Dennis Rice and Mike Potter. Internment was in Mount Pleasant Cemetery under direction of Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Howard W. Julian


Howard W. Julian, 82, San Antonio, TX, passed away at the Regent Care Center on June 5, 2009. He was born Aug. 8, 1926, the son of Harvey and Eunice (Sumner) Julian in Cedar County.

Sergeant Howard Julian served in World War II in France, Belgium, England and Germany. Later, he served in the Korean Conflict and Vietnam. He was proud to serve in the Army for 20 years and 19 years for the Department of Defense, a total of 39 years. He was presented many awards and commendations for his service.

Howard was preceded in death by his late wife, Faye (Devers) Julian, on May 30, 2008; his first wife, Marie; his parents; and brothers, Kenneth Lee Julian and Cecil Julian – Welch, OK.

He is survived by two brothers, Frank Julian, and wife, Pinya – Kansas City, and John Julian, and wife, Linn; two sisters, Mary (Julian) Lady, and husband, Leo Lady, and Pauline (Julian) Hlavacek, and husband, George – all of El Dorado Springs; many nieces, nephews and cousins and a host of friends.

Howard will be missed by his family, friends and his neighbors, Al, Millie and Dick, who were so helpful during is illness, and Faye (Devers) Julian’s nephew, Russell Bush.

Services were held in the Porter Loring Colonial Chapel in San Antonio, TX, with Reverend Joe Walts presiding.

Interment was at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with full military rites.

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Ralph T. Plank

Ralph T. Plank, 91, Soap Lake and former Quincy, WA, resident, passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2009, at Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee, WA. Ralph was born on June 26, 1917, to James and Sarah Plank in Cedar County.

He married Janet Pastoor in 1940 in Twin Falls, ID, and they farmed on the McMaster’s Flat. They moved to Quincy, WA, in 1952 and were among the first to farm in the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project.

They relocated to Royal City, WA, in 1960, where they were able to purchase more farmland.

Ralph started three successful farm equipment dealerships and many other ventures. He loved to hunt and fish.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, William; and a daughter, Wanda.

He is survived by a sister, Eula Mae Vickers - Nevada; his sons, James - Berkeley, CA, and Gerald - Ephrata, WA; daughter and son-in-law, Sharon and Ritch Morehouse - Federal Way, WA; and three grandchildren.

A celebration of life service was on Wednesday, June 10, in Scharbach’s Columbia Funeral Chapel in Quincy, WA. Internment followed in the Quincy Valley Cemetery.

Friends may sign the guest book or leave a note for the family at www.scharbachs.com.

Scharbach’s Columbia Funeral Chapel in Quincy, WA, was in charge of arrangements.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Guelda Fern Reeves Blystone

Guelda Fern Reeves Blystone, 75, El Dorado Springs, passed away at Cedar County Memorial Hospital on June 3, 2009. She was born n June 26, 1933, in Cedar County to Emmett Reeves and Maudie Bogart Reeves.

Guelda worked for many years and retired from Sughart, Thompson and Kilroy Law Firm in Kansas City. She was a 45 year member of the Order of Eastern Star, Summit Chapter #101 of Lee’s Summit. She served as Past Worthy Matron of Raytown
Chapter #97. Guelda was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Tri-Lakes Auxiliary #4279.

A loving mother, sister, aunt and friend, Guelda touched us all with her sassy wit and love of sports. She was always ready for adventure and fun. She is truly missed.

Preceding her in death were her parents; and her daughter, Vicky Renee Blystone Hoagensen.

Survivors include her son, Jeffrey Wayne Blystone – El Dorado Springs; brother, Everett “Lucky” Reeves, and wife, Vivian – El Dorado Springs, sister, Muriel Reeves Root, and husband, Floyd – El Dorado Springs, three step-children – Lila Carriker, Melba Boyd and Randy Blystone; two granddaughters, Athena Hoagensen Krepps and Jessica Hoagensen; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services were held Saturday, June 6, in the Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Rev. James Coleman officiating. Interment followed in El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were – Everett “Buddy” Reeves, Nick Reeves, Ed Montgomery, Steve Bailey, Rickey Wooldridge and Mike Payne.

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Truman Joseph (TJ) Smading


Truman Joseph (TJ) Smading, 85, El Dorado Springs, was born Feb. 4, 1924, in Quinton, OK, to Charles Raymond and Emma (Hogan) Smading. He passed away June 2, 2009, in Christian Healthcare, Nixa.

As a child TJ moved with his parents to Kansas and then to Nevada, MO. He was a US Navy Veteran serving his country from February 1943 to February 1946. TJ served as an Armed Guard Gunner during the war, attaining the rank of 2nd Class Boswainmate. His duties were protecting the Merchant ships that were transporting a variety of supplies such as small arm ammunition, bombs, medical supplies, airplanes, high test gasoline and coal and aluminum ore. He served on three ships - the SS Finley Peter Dunne, SS Edward J. O’Brian and a C-1 transport, the SS Cape Neddick. It was aboard the Neddick that he saw action.

TJ was united in marriage to Roberta Belle Moore in June 1947. To this union four children were born. They lived in Cassville from 1959 until 1973, later moving to Mammoth Springs, AR, before finally moving to El Dorado Springs. TJ was active in the Lions Club and the VFW.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Roberta, in 2006; two brothers, Robert and Lewis; and five sisters, Alma, Frankie, Opal, Olive and Dottie.

He is survived by two sons, Robert and Michael; and two daughters, Vicki and Patricia; 13 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

Graveside service with Merle Hicks officiating will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, June 5, in Moore Cemetery, Nevada.

Casketbearers will be -Vincent Pellicane, Craig Orwig, Bryan J. Smading and Sam Summers.

Arrangements are by Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Lions Club of El Dorado Springs or VFW #257.