Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Donald Wilson Owen

Donald Wilson Owen, 90, Schell City, the oldest child of Albert Chalmers and Cora Elizabeth (Dieter) Owen was born Sept. 14, 1919, in Maysville, and passed from this life at 3:28 a.m. Wednesday, morning, Dec. 30, 2009, at the Cedar County Memorial
Hospital in El Dorado Springs.

Throughout his life, Don accomplished many things. He graduated from both high school and college and was a school teacher for a time. He worked for the ASCS office, ran a road grader to build reservoirs and lived in Australia for the time he owned and operated his own business.

He was the first soldier from DeKalb County to serve in the U.S. Army during WWII. He served his country both at home and abroad in campaigns in the Western Pacific, Papua, East Indies and New Guinea. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, the Distinguished Unit Badge and American Defense Service Ribbon.

He became an airplane pilot at the age of 60 and owned his own plane. He also built large scale model airplanes. He loved boating and even built himself a sailboat. He was an avid reader and a skilled wood craftsman and artist.

For the last several years, he attended the Schell City Christian church and faithfully read his Bible every night.

On Jan. 20, 1987, Don was united in marriage to Rachel Lee Applegate and they enjoyed 22 years together. In all their years together, Rachel Lee never heard Don say a cuss word, how about that? Don always moved forward to discover new things in his life.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, John H. Owen.

Survivors include his wife, Rachel Lee Owen, of the home in Schell City; one son, Anthony Owen, and his wife, Cheng – Canberra, Australia; one step-son, Larry Applegate, and his wife, Marla – Schell City; one step-daughter, Peggy Applegate – Great Falls, MT; two brothers, Harold D. (Joe) Owen – Cameron, and Albert A. (Art) Owen, and his wife, Jurene – Liberty; one sister, Ruth Alberta Patrick – Sparks, NV; three grandchildren – Louis, James and Adrienne Owen – all of Canberra, Australia; five step-grandchildren, Frank and Fred Carlton, Keri Hold and Kristi and Justin Applegate; 14 step-great-grandchildren; six step-great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Services were held Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010, in the Schell City Christian Church with Brother Paul Thorade and Brother Marvin Jamison officiating. Musical selections were provided by Paula Gray and Sharon Goodman. Interment with military honors followed at the Green Lawn Cemetery in Schell City.

Pallbearers were Frank and Fred Carlton, Justin Applegate, George Hold, Sam Vantellman, Dennis Vantellman and Rob McKinney. Honorary pallbearers were Dale Allison, Joe Frieze, Ron Shutters, Grady Davis and James Heath.

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

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Ruth Lee Woody

Ruth Lee Woody, 79, El Dorado Springs, passed away Dec. 29, 2009, at Community Springs Healthcare Facility after a short battle with cancer. She was born Dec. 23, 1930, to Robert L. Beckham and Sadie Mae Rordan in Serth, ID.

She married Ralph E. Woody on Feb. 22, 1964, in Las Vegas, NV. They moved to El Dorado Springs in 1984.

Ruth worked at Community Springs Healthcare Facility, the State Hospital and at Appleton City Nursing home. She also worked several years caring for people in their homes.

Ruth was a very caring and loving person and many people loved her.

Ruth was an avid Bible scholar.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Ralph E. Woody. Ralph passed away in 1998.

She is survived by two stepsons, Ralph E. Woody and Jan Woody – Pueblo, CO, and Dwayne Roe and Barbara Roe – Krebs, OK; sister, Louise Powers – Gardnerville, NV; niece, Sherri Lancaster – Las Vegas, NV; three brothers-in-law – Floyd and Donna Woody – El Dorado Springs, Everette and Ruth Woody – El Dorado Springs, and Denzil and Vera Woody – Roswell, GA; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A graveside memorial service was held March 31 in Clintonville Cemetery in El Dorado Springs with Rev. Brent Bland officiating.

Marvin Leo Vickers

Marvin Leo Vickers, 83, El Dorado Springs, passed away Dec. 29, 2009, at Cedar County Memorial Hospital in El Dorado Springs. Marvin was born on a farm south of Dederick to Charles Edward Vickers and Iva Whitesell Vickers. Marvin had three brothers and nine sisters.

After completing his sophomore year in high school, he began working with his brother in a garage in Nevada. At 18 he was drafted into the Army Air Corps and trained as a tail gunner. After his service, he left Missouri traveling to Idaho for two years to work in a garage again with his brother, Kenneth, where they sold Kaiser cars.

In 1952 he came back to Missouri to farm in his home community, marrying Miss Shirley Mullins in June. To this union were born two sons, Clinton and Chris. He was the happiest when his kids and grandkids were home working on one of his many ongoing farm projects, always telling everyone, “Can’t doesn’t live here.”

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, never missing a deer season and told tall tales upon returning to the house. Marv enjoyed watching his kids and grandkids play sports. He loved farming and did all farming chores until the last year of his life. He had a passion for tractors old, and new, and spent many hours fixing up the old ones.

Marv was a man who was willing to help others, his motto, if he had it and you needed it; it pleased him to let you borrow it.
One of his proudest moments was when he purchased one of the first big round balers in the area. His sons and nephews were proud, too, since they were the hay haulers for the square bales. He was a regular at the local farm sales, always looking for something he didn’t have that might help him accomplish more.

Shirley struggled always, trying to get Marv to stay out of the candy jar and eat a square meal. He loved his candy; he was a candy-a-holic, if there is such a thing.

Preceding Marvin in death were his parents, Charles and Iva Vickers; sister, Cleo Spencer; and brothers, Walter Vickers and Kenneth Martin.

Marvin is survived by his wife, Shirley, of the home; sons, Clinton, and wife, Lucy - Warrensburg, and Chris, and wife, Vickie - El Dorado Springs; grandchildren – Michael, and wife, Mandi - Lebanon, Caleb and Travis - Warrensburg, Ashley Esther - Joplin, and Quade Vickers - El Dorado Springs; great grandchildren - Lexi and Maverick Haley, and Cash and Duke Vickers - Lebanon; sisters - Beulah Pennock, Lora Vickers, Pauline Lowe, Donna Woody, Wilda Hall and Louise Gilbert - El Dorado Springs, and Wilma Vittetoe - Bolivar; brother, Oren Martin - El Dorado Springs; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives.

Marvin will be missed; the summer hay season will never be the same.

Services were held Thursday, Dec. 31, in the Sheldon Chapel with Rev. Brent Bland officiating. Music was One Day At A Time and The Old Rugged Cross with pianist Barry Witt. Interment was in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, near El Dorado Springs, under the direction of Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Casketbearers were - Michael Vickers, Quade Vickers, Caleb Vickers, Wayne Pennock, Travis Vickers and Brian Brown. Honorary casketbearers were his nephews.

Ruth L. Woody

Ruth L. Woody, 79, El Dorado Springs passed away Dec. 29, 2009, at Community Springs Healthcare Facility in El Dorado Springs.

Ruth was a longtime El Dorado Springs Resident.

Cremation was under the direction of the Sheldon Funeral Home in El Dorado Springs. Committal services will be at a later date at the Clintonville Cemetery.

The family suggests contributions to High Hopes, in care of the Sheldon Funeral Home in El Dorado Springs.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Neva Irene Rust

On Dec. 26, 2009, the angels came and took Neva Irene Rust, 80, to be with her Lord Jesus. She was born on Feb. 19, 1929, to Frank and Ruby (Morlan) Simrell in Cedar Springs. Neva was the youngest of three girls.

She married Jimmy Worthington on Aug. 4, 1944, and to this union she was blessed with five children. He preceded her in death in 1978. She later married Robert Rust in Stockton, on Jan. 14, 1986, and moved to El Dorado Springs. He survives of the home.

Neva raised her grandchildren - Veda Stone, until the age of 11, Michelle Mize, until the age of 6, and Lacel Worthington, until the age of 18.

Neva was a true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. She was an avid church-goer. It didn’t make any difference what church, she loved them all. We will miss her loving smile, her big hugs and most of all, her telling all of us she loved us before we left her. She will be sadly missed by those that knew and loved her for what she was, a caring wife, mom and grandma.

Preceding Neva in death were her parents, Frank and Ruby Simrell; husband, Jimmy Worthington; one brother, Lacel Winder; one sister, Veda Simrell; and one son, Lewis Worthington.

In addition to her husband, Robert, Neva leaves behind her sister, Zella Sawyer - El Dorado Springs; four children - Irene Banks, Amor Worthington, and wife, Becky, all of El Dorado Springs, Dillie Routt, and fiancee, Daniel Baxter, and Lula Bradley - all of Nevada; 10 grandchildren - Lacel, Veda, Michelle, Julie, Crystal, Russell, Buddy, Jimmy, Tabitha and Bridget; 36 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Juanita McCarty, and husband, Bob - Kansas City; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She also leaves behind her beloved dog, Bonnie.

Services began at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Randy Hayward officiating. Interment followed in Wiley Cemetery, south of Stockton, under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Buddy Routt, Nathan Stone, Jack Rector, James Rector, Robert Rust and Daniel Baxter. Honorary pallbearers are Shannon Stone, Darrill Mize, Zevin George, Victor Stone, Randy Stone and Bill Daniels.

Memorial contributions may be made to CMH Hospice of Bolivar.

Thelma Marie (Lasley) Wosoba

Thelma Marie (Lasley) Wosoba, 66, of El Dorado Springs, was born Jan. 20, 1943, on Lively Lane in Montevallo in Vernon County, to Homer and Ida Bell Lasley. She passed away Dec. 26, 2009, at her home.

Thelma grew up loving the outdoors and all the animals in it.

She was a member of the Montevallo Baptist Church.

She married her high school sweetheart, Fred Wosoba, on Aug. 5, 1961, moving to their farm south of El Dorado Springs. To this union were born five children. The next several years were filled with love of her family, the outdoors, riding horses and her acre sized garden.

She enjoyed canning what she grew, cooking for anyone who happened to stop by and sewing—making most of our twirling and western outfits as we grew up and, of course, baking those unforgettable pies, cakes and cookies. She enjoyed several years caring for and watching her beloved grandchildren grow. She had a heart of gold and spent many years caring for family members during their times of need.

She always loved family gatherings, looking forward to each holiday with Christmas being her favorite. Later in life with her family married, she turned her love to her flower shop, “Aaron’s Place,” where she enjoyed providing flowers for a large part of El Dorado Springs. She combined these two loves on Valentine’s Day when all the family came to help at the shop. She was greatly saddened when, after 10 years, due to her failing sight, she had to close her beloved store.

After caring for others all her life, one of the hardest things she had to face was letting us care for her, as she could no longer care for herself, saying she never wanted to burden us. Mom, you were never a burden.

The last words she said were, “I love you,” but we didn’t need to hear it as she showed us each day of her life just how much she did love us. She gave us a lifetime of memories, not only her husband of 48 years and her family but everyone who knew her. She will be missed by many.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Homer and Ida Bell Lasley; parents-in-law, Henry and Susanna Wosoba; and one brother, Floyd Lasley.

Thelma is survived by her husband, Fred Wosoba; five children and their spouses – Bonnie and Jim Keith, Betty and Bill Majors, Floyd and Althea Wosoba, Aaron and Stacy Wosoba and Linda and Mike Harwood; one brother, Gene Lasley; one sister-in-law, Helen Wasoba; one brother-in-law, John Wosoba, and wife, Debbie; seven grandchildren – Amanda Nikodim, Ashley and Matt Miller, Joshua Nikodim, Daniel Wosoba, Whitney Wosoba, Cortney Weaver and Bryce Wosoba; seven step-grandchildren – Matthew, Wyatt, Makayla and James Allen Keith, April and Michael Campbell and Matthew and Melissa Harwood; two step-great-grandchildren, Jonathon and Haylee; one beloved dog, Tinkerbell; several nieces, nephews, cousins and an entire neighborhood of friends.

Services were held Tuesday, Dec. 29, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Bro. Everett Smith officiating. Burial followed at Virgil City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were- Kenny Skakal, Rich Painter, Doug Nikodim, Ed Stewart, Brent Greenstreet and Matt Bishop Sr. Honorary pallbearers were – Mike Mann, Matt Bishop Jr., Doug Gilbert and Barry Weaver.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Virgil City Cemetery.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Opal Irene (Berning) Mizner


Opal Irene (Berning) Mizner, 84, El Dorado Springs, passed on to her eternal home on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2009, at Cedar County Memorial Hospital. The third daughter of Earl and Maude (West) Berning, she was born on April 17, 1925, in Miller.

Irene was saved at Potter School and was a member of El Dorado Springs Missionary Baptist Church where she attended faithfully until health no longer permitted.

Irene was the mother of three daughters - Yolanda, Delene and Kim; and two sons: Gale and Jay. She was a seamstress and worked for Dunbrooke, Nelly Don and Junior House until her retirement. She loved to sew for her family. She made beautiful quilts for each and everyone.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Earl and Maude Berning; two sisters, Ruby Beason and Nadine Pendergraph; three brothers: George, Chet and Dale Berning; and one nephew, Aaron Berning.

Irene is survived by her family: Yolanda Smith, and husband, Melvin, and Kim Matthews - all of El Dorado Springs; Delene Clark, and husband, Larry – Bradleyville, Gale Mizner, and wife, Wanda - Gray Summit, Jay Mizner - Fort Worth, TX; 11 grandchildren - Lee Smith, Neshawn Crowley, Michelle Smith, Stacy Baldwin, Corey Powell, Kendall Powell, Travis Mizner, Canin Mizner, Darren Matthews, Nicholas Matthews, Casey Matthews, and spouses; 17 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Erma Beason - El Dorado Springs and Ruth Bailey - Stockton; and several nieces and nephews.

Services were held on Monday, Dec. 28, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Bro. Everett Smith officiating. Music was provided by Jolene Powell. Interment followed in Stockton City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were her grandsons - Lee Smith, Corey Powell, Kendall Powell, Travis Mizner, Canin Mizner, Darren Matthews and Nicholas Matthews. Honorary pallbearers were - Neshawn Crowley, Michelle Smith, Stacy Baldwin and Casey Matthews.

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Barbara Lee Buckles

Barbara Lee Buckles, 64, Walker, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, at her home in Walker, following a sudden illness. She was born Aug. 10, 1945, in Nevada to William Glenn Shepherd and Juanita Maxine Elliott Shepherd.

Barbara married Larry Buckles on March 13, 1965, in Nevada, and he survives of the home.

Barbara grew up Nevada and graduated from Nevada High School in 1963. She worked for the Walker School District and later Northeast Vernon County School District for 25 years until her retirement in 2007.

She was a member of the Walker Christian Church, the Vernon County University of Missouri Extension Council; Vernon, Barton and Cedar Counties Rural Letter Carriers Auxiliary of which she was past president of the local unit. She was a member of the Missouri and National Rural Letter Carriers.

Survivors include her husband, Larry, of the home; two daughters, Kim Dade, and her husband, Tim – Walker, and Kerry Jennings, and her husband, Darl – Nevada; one sister, Brenda Leonard, and her husband, Willis – Nevada; one foster sister, Martha Kintner, and her husband, Jeff, Bartlesville, OK; four grandsons – Aaron Dade, Ethan Dade, Damon Jennings and Dirk Jennings – all of Nevada; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and her many friends.

Services began at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23, at Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada. Interment followed in Newton Burial Park, Nevada.

Those who wish may contribute in her memory to a college scholarship fund for her grandsons at the Bank of America in Nevada.

You may view obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Carmen Isabel Dale

Carmen Isabel Dale, 89, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, at the home of her daughter in Rogersville. Her family was at her side as she passed very peacefully from this life into eternity – just in time for the big birthday party before the throne of Jesus.

Carmen was born Aug. 3, 1920, to Charles Julian Richards and Lela Mae (Allison) Richards in El Dorado Springs. She was the eldest of three children and was a lifelong resident of El Dorado Springs. On April 16, 1938, Carmen married her high school sweetheart, Clyde Dale, and their devotion to one another was a romance that lasted for the next 64 years–– until Clyde went to be with Jesus. The couple had two daughters, Nancy Ellen and Cheryl Lynn.

During World War II, while Clyde was with the troops in Europe, Carmen worked at the Tri-County State Bank in El Dorado Springs and upon Clyde’s return from the war, they started their family. Carmen ultimately was employed with the city of El Dorado Springs in the Board of Public Works Office. She worked there for many years as office manager and city treasurer.

After her retirement, Carmen was able to start or continue with many of her interests. She loved working in her yard, sewing and was a fabulous cook. As Clyde became ill, she was his best encourager and a very faithful caregiver. After Clyde’s passing in 2002, Carmen volunteered at the El Dorado Springs Hospital and was active in her church. Through the years, Carmen was a member of the United Methodist Church, the PEO Sisterhood and the Eastern Star.

Carmen was a great lady, full of life, always smiling and ready for a new adventure.

Survivors include: daughter, Nancy Roberts, and husband, Larry Roberts - Springfield; their sons, Aaron Roberts, and family - Cheyenne, WY, and Justin Roberts, and wife - Waynesville, NC; daughter, Cheryl Bryant, and husband, Fred Bryant - Rogersville; their children, Patrick Bryant, and family - Carl Junction, Ky Englund, and family - Springfield, and Elizabeth Bryant - Chicago, IL; 10 great-grandchildren; brother, J.D. Richards, and wife, Willie - Lubbock, TX; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were held Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel in El Dorado Springs with Pastor Patty Smith officiating. Internment followed in the El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Tim Englund, Patrick Bryant, Randy Richards, Ron Richards and Roger Eason.

Donations may be made to the El Dorado Springs Methodist Church in memory of Clyde and Carmen Dale.

Timothy Rodgers

Timothy Rodgers, 62, El Dorado Springs, passed away at his home on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, after a long illness. He was born on Dec. 8, 1947, in Oil City, PA, to Vern and Marie Rodgers.

He was a member of the El Dorado Springs Methodist Church. He enjoyed church services, listening to music and was a #1 Pittsburg Steelers fan. For many years Timothy worked in lawn care.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Vern and Marie; all of his grandparents, Agratha and Clarence Rodenbaugh, and Pearl and Earl Rodgers; and two brothers, Joseph Rodgers and Clarence Rodgers.

Timothy is survived by his wife of 25 years, Brenda Rodgers; four sons - Gary Rodgers, Timothy Rodgers Jr., Timothy Leak and Billy Barrett; three daughters - Mary Rodgers, Sabrina Leak and Teresa Barrett; four sisters - Agratha Daniels, Sandria Knapp, Charlotte Messick and Sharon Kicenski; one brother, Danny Rodgers; 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and one
goddaughter, Charity Hoffman; several nieces and nephews and three special friends - James Smith, Tom Fagan and Meathead.

Services were held on Monday, Dec. 21, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Pastor Patty Smith officiating. Suzanne Gladden provided music.

Arrangements were entrusted to Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Pearl Marie (Gilpin) Cochran

Pearl Marie (Gilpin) Cochran, 85, passed away on Friday, Dec. 18, 2009, at Medical Lodges Inc. in Nevada. Pearl was born on July 22, 1924, in Crowley County, CO, to Percy Clyde and Jessie Jewel (McCarthy) Gilpin.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 19 years, Lendon L. Cochran; her parents, Percy and Jessie Gilpin; and two sisters, Florence Gilpin and Anitia Gilpin Leverich.

Pearl Marie was a beloved mother to her only child, Pamela Cochran Arledge, and husband. Jerry - Festus. She was grandmother to Suzanne Evans, and husband, Mark, and to David Arledge, and wife, Linda, and a great-grandmother of four.

Survivors include her siblings: Virginia Beydler, Alice Nikodim, and husband, Art, Marion Gilpin, and wife, Rita, Howard Gilpin, and wife, Nina - all of El Dorado Springs, and Wesley A. Gilpin - New Hampshire; and a huge extended family and a lot of friends.

Services began at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 23, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Brent Bland officiating. A visitation was held at 12 p.m. just prior to the service. Interment was in the Clintonville Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - David Arledge, Art Nikodim, Howard Gilpin, Rick Coale, Tom Cain and Roy Weeda.

George Earl Gardner

George Earl Gardner, 66, Howard, KS, passed away Friday, Dec. 18, 2009, at his home. George was born Nov. 27, 1943, in Sheldon, the son of Gale Eugene “Gene” and Bonnie George (Finch) Gardner.

George graduated high school in 1961 in El Dorado Springs. On March 18, 1981, George was united in marriage to Cathy Elaine Tharp in Miami, OK. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force. George was a member of the American Legion Carter Rader Post #149, Masonic Lodge and VFW. He owned Gardner Hay Company for 25 years. George enjoyed fishing, hunting and visiting with people.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Bonnie Gardner; and wife, Cathy Gardner.

He is survived by one son, Justin Gardner - Howard, KS; three daughters - Karla Boone, and husband, Kim - Neal, KS, Bobbi Schurr, and husband, Lance - Hays, KS, and Kimberly Nixon - Eureka, KS; his father, Gene Gardner - Sheldon; one brother, Jim Gardner, and wife, Sheila - Branson; two sisters, Nahwana Maslen, and husband, Johnney - El Dorado Springs, and Karma Curtis and Jack Sportsman - Lamar; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Services were held on Tuesday, Dec. 22, in Zimmerman Funeral Home. Interment was in South Lawn Cemetery in Severy, KS.

The family suggests contributions to the Greenwood County Home Health and may be left with the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com. Arrangements were under the direction of Zimmerman Funeral Home, Howard, KS.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

William (Bill) C. Barber


William (Bill) C. Barber, 79, Freeport, IL, a former resident of El Dorado Springs, passed away Dec. 16, 2009, at a Wisconsin hospital. He was born in Joplin on May 6, 1930, to Charles and Georgia (Benbow) Barber. His mother was a telephone operator for many years and his father worked for the railroad.

During his childhood, they lived in El Dorado Springs. He delivered newspapers as a boy and, as a teenager he worked in a local drugstore. In high school he participated in all sports, played in the band, was in Boy Scouts and was a member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Bill attended the University of Missouri, receiving two degrees in Pre-Med and Electrical Engineering. In between degrees, he fulfilled his ROTC obligations in the U.S. Air Force.

After college, he was employed as an engineer with Southwest Bell in Missouri. In the 60s, he was offered a job at an independent telephone company in Freeport, IL, as their chief engineer and rose to vice president/general manager. When the company was sold, he started his own successful consulting firm in telecommunications in Freeport, IL, and worked locally and in several states.

Bill continued to update his education in management and technology from several institutions, including both Universities of Kansas and Colorado.

In Freeport, IL, Bill was an active member of his church and in professional, social and civic organizations. He served on the city planning commission, taught adult classes at the local college and did a variety of volunteer work. He served on many boards, including president of the YMCA and was instrumental in building a new YM on the campus of Highland College Freeport.

Bill enjoyed cross-country skiing, fishing, doing colored glasswork, flying his airplane and he had a fascination with computers and technology. He and his wife, Eloise, traveled extensively to over 60 countries. Their dream venture was made in 2008 with a four and a half month cruise around the world.

He is survived by his wife, Eloise, of the home in Freeport, IL, six children and nine grandchildren. He will be remembered for his dedication in whatever he undertook, for his innovative ideas and his mentoring of others, his positive attitude and cheerful humor.

A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 15, in the United Presbyterian Church in Freeport, IL. A memorial fund has been established in his name for the youth of his church.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Dora E. (Arnold) Plunkett

Dora Emily (Arnold) Plunkett, 90, formerly of El Dorado Springs, passed away at Nevada Regional Medical Center on Dec. 12, 2009. She was born on Jan. 20, 1919, in Broughton, KS, to James L. and Minnie (Wilson) Arnold.

During World War II, Dora worked at Pratt & Whitney in Kansas. She served as a waitress at various steakhouses for most of the rest of her working career.

Across the years, she attended church at Dederick Christian Church, Park Street Christian Church and, at the time of her passing, was a member of First Christian Church in Nevada. Dora was a very spiritual lady, a giving person and a dedicated member of her church. She was considered a very spunky lady.

Dora was married to Eldon Walls in 1947. He passed away March 18, 1982. On Aug. 16, 1983, she married Ralph Plunkett. He passed away on March 13, 1993.

Also preceding her in death were: two step-sons, Robert Walls and Richard Walls; two step-grandsons, Mark Walls and Scott Walls; and three brothers, Clarence Arnold, Wayne Arnold and Cecil Arnold.

Survivors include five nieces - Joyce Johnson - LaCygne, KS, Martha Walls - Gurnee, IL, Mary Ann Hillyard - Ranchos de Taos, NM, Sharon Stuwart - Sylmar, CA, and Kathleen Friedlander - San Francisco, CA; one nephew, Melvin Arnold - Springhill, FL; and many other relatives and friends.

Services were held on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, at the First Christian Church in Nevada with pastors Bill Platt and David Rorabaugh officiating. Interment followed in Oak Lawn Cemetery in LaCygne, KS, under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Thomas Johnson, Brent Johnson, Martin Munson, Cole Munson, Justin Boyd, Glen Noble and Bill Schulz.

Gary E. Cochran

Gary E. Cochran, 66, was born on Nov. 29, 1943, in a log cabin just west of Roscoe to Iva Cochran and the late Blond E. Cochran. At the age of two, he and his parents moved to the current location where Iva still resides which is only about three miles from where Gary was born. Gary came to rest on the evening of Dec. 12, 2009, at his residence only three miles south of
his childhood home.

Gary was a very family oriented man. He was very fortunate that his mother, brother, son, daughter, grandkids, uncle, cousins and a nephew all lived within a five mile radius of him. 

Gary graduated from El Dorado Spring High School in 1961. Gary joined the Army in 1964 and later returned home in 1966.

Gary met his loving wife of 40 wonderful years, Lavoye Hannah on Labor Day weekend September 1967. Gary and Lavoye married in June of 1969.

Their first big surprise came to Gary and Lavoye early in February 1973, which was their son, Cole E. Cochran. Their second big surprise came to them in May 1978, which was their daughter, Brandy D. Cochran. Their third big surprise came to them in 2001, which is when Brandy married Jason D. Matter, along with stepson, Jayson Bailey Matter in April 2001 and their first grandchild, Amie Matter, in September 2001. Cole married Tricia Patroske in October 2001. In the last eight years, the kids have added to the family a few more grandkids - Clay Matter and Sammi and Ce Ce Cochran which was a huge part of Gary’s life. Like waking up next to his loving wife every morning and always looked forward to seeing his kids and grandkids each and everyday.

Gary was a very dedicated and hardworking individual. Gary was a welder by trade which he was very well known for, and a farmer by birth. Gary had his own business as a welder, Gary E. Cochran Welding. Gary was a very creative welder and would come up with his own inventions which he called CLEM. Each new CLEM would get a number which could be CLEM 25 today and if you ask him in a couple days that same CLEM might be number 352.

Gary liked messing with his cattle, building fence and most of all working on the farm with his John Deere tractors. Gary liked to have, what he called quality time, which was spending time with his wife, kids, grandkids and friends. Whether it was hunting, fishing, visiting for hours, having a weenie roast in the middle of the timber, taking pictures with the grandkids, or what he called “Gatorvating” which is going for a ride on his John Deere gator just riding around looking at the wildlife and the countryside.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Blond E. Cochran, and his father-in-law, “Buster” Hannah. 

Gary is survived by his wife, Lavoye Cochran; mother, Iva Cochran, brother, Gerald Ray Cochran, and Jeannie; uncle Merle Cochran, and wife, Jo Ann; aunts, Earlene Premer – Independence, and Wilma Howard - of Oregon; son, Cole Cochran; daughter-in-law, Tricia Cochran; granddaughters, Sammi and Ce Ce Cochran; daughter, Brandy Matter, and son-in-law, Jason Matter; and grandkids - Bailey, Amie and Clay - all of El Dorado Springs; brother in law, Chris Hannah, and wife, Lisa – Osceola, and Jerry Hannah, and Jennifer, - Billings; nephews - Benny Cochran, and wife, Lisa, Mark Cochran, Jimmy Cochran, and wife, Barbara - of El Dorado Springs, Duel Hannah, and girlfriend, Angela (or PeeWee as Gary called her) - Osceola, Justin Hannah, and wife, Le Ann – Adrian, and a host of cousins, great nieces and nephews and a large array of friends. 
Gary was loved by many and he will be missed by all greatly.

Services were held Wednesday, Dec. 16, in Sheldon-Goodrich Chapel, Osceola, with Rev. Larry Wheeler and Rev. Larry Young officiating. Music was On The Wings Of A Dove, Amazing Grace and Farther Along by Jim Hearn. Military services were conducted by Clinton VFW Post #1894. Interment was in Pleasant Springs Cemetery, Oyer, under the direction of Sheldon-Goodrich Funeral Home.

Casketbearers were - Cole Cochran, Brandy Matter, Tricia Cochran, Jason Matter, Gerald Cochran, Jerry Hannah, Duel Hannah and Chris Hannah. Honorary casketbearers were - Sammi Cochran, Bailey Matter, Ce Ce Cochran, Amie Matter, Nicki, Clay Matter, Benny Cochran, Justin Hannah, Mark Cochran, Leo Rysted, Jimmy Cochran, Bill McClain and Sam Breeden.

Leola Wanona Bland


Leola Wanona Bland, 78, of the Black Jack community, passed on to her eternal home on Dec. 12, 2009, in her home. She was surrounded by the family who lovingly cared for her the past four years. The oldest daughter of Floyd (Bike) and Ina Messick, she was born on Sept. 18, 1931.

On April 2, 1953, she was united in marriage to Junior Bland and moved to the family farm in Black Jack where she remained until her death. To this union twin daughters were born, Kathy Dianne and Karen Deanne.

Leola was an avid businesswoman and loved working with people. She worked locally at Sibley & Thatch Supermarket, First Finance Co. and Tri County State Bank until her retirement. Shortly after retirement, she was elected Commissioner of St. Clair County—the first woman to hold that position. She served in that capacity for four years.

Leola’s love for God and family was indescribable. She was saved and sanctified in the Black Jack Church of God (Holiness) where she attended faithfully until health no longer permitted.

Leola taught by example—demanding respect, punctuality and good work ethics. She will be remembered as a wonderful mother, a godly example and a friend to all.

Preceding her in death were her parents and a great-nephew, Dustin Bland.

Survivors include: her husband, Junior, of the home; her daughters, Kathy and Karen Davis; her sons-in-law Jim and Nolan Davis; and three granddaughters - Britni, Tessa and Brooke Davis; three sisters - Leona Bland and Kay Harper - El Dorado Springs, and Fay Sayre - Kansas City.

Services were held on Tuesday, Dec. 15, in the El Dorado Springs Church of God (Holiness) with Rev. Joe Dodson and Rev. Brent Bland officiating. Music was provided by Bob and Rowena Clouse. Interment followed in Love Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Kirk Bland, Travis Bland, Trent Bland, Quinton Bland, David Henley and Wayne Worthington.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Black Jack Church Youth Center.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Wilmer Lee Sibley

Wilmer Lee Sibley, 70, passed away Dec. 3, 2009, at Dallas County Care Center in Buffalo after a lingering illness. He was born March 22, 1939, to John and Marjorie Sibley in El Dorado Springs, Missouri.

On Jan. 2, 1968, Wilmer married Peggy Gibbs.

Wilmer was a faithful member of Union Hall Baptist Church since 1948. He was an independent truck driver for many years and retired from Mid America Dairyman. His family and his church were his priorities and he will be sadly missed by all.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, Ronald and Wayne; and two sisters, Elinor McCann and Nadine Hoover.
Wilmer is survived by his wife Peggy - Buffalo; three daughters - Vickie Whistance, and husband, James - Nixa, Terri Sibley - Nevada, and Lisa Hottensen - Carterville, IL; one brother, Orville Sibley, and wife, Peggy - El Dorado Springs; two brothers-in-law, Dale Hoover - Harrisonville, and Lester Gibbs - El Dorado Springs; one sister-in-law, Carol Thomas - Butler; three grandchildren and their spouses - Jamie and Cody Lee - Nixa, Nick and Emily Whistance - Nixa, and Allie Hottensen - Carterville, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services were held at the El Dorado Springs City Cemetery on Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009, with Brother Rocky Eaton officiating. Arrangements were entrusted to Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Dave Sibley, Kirk Sibley, Nick Sibley, Mark Moberly, Jack McCullick and Melvin Marshall.

Memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Shirley (Hartline) Stephens

Shirley Stephens, 78, Wellington, KS, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, at Summer Regional Medical Center, Wellington, KS. She was born, the daughter of Romes and Minnie (Prough) Hartline on Friday, May 29, 1931, in El Dorado Springs.

She was raised in the area and graduated from the El Dorado Springs High School.

Following her marriage in 1948, she moved to Wichita, KS, and has lived in Belle Plaine and Wellington, KS. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and two sisters.

Survivors include: Her daughters, Brenda Munro, and her husband, John - Wellington, KS, and Sherry Westfall – Wellington, KS; son, Jeffrey Stephens – Topeka; close friend, Mag Abasolo - Wellington; grandchildren – Scott Munro, and his wife, Makeesa – Kansas City, Shane Munro, and his wife, Kristina – Wichita, Dustin Rager, and his wife, Michelle – Chillicothe, Lindsay Rager – Manhattan, KS; and six great-grandchildren – Corey, Harrison, Dalen, Hayden, Alyssa and Makenna.

She was a loving mother and grandmother and will be missed.

Gene Lee Mitchem

Gene Lee Mitchem, 65, Nevada, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Joplin following a lengthy illness. He was born Jan. 28, 1944, in Nevada to Everett Lee Mitchem and Wilma Ruth Walker Mitchem.

He married Mary Ann Riggs on June 24, 1962, in Nevada and she survives of the home.

Gene grew up in Nevada and graduated from the Nevada High School in 1962. He worked for C.A. White Motors for a number of years, worked in credit and finance for U.S. Credit Life and worked for Thorpe’s Appliance for many years. Gene owned and operated GM Gun and Pawn for the past 10 years, retiring in 2009. He was a member of the BPO Elks #564, was active for many years with Oakdale 4-H and Vernon County 4-H Youth Fair. Gene was an avid hunter and fisherman.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors in addition to his wife, Mary Ann, of the home, include his son, Buck Mitchem, and his wife, Christi - Schell City, his daughter, Heather Mitchem Gade, and her fiance, Daniel Fletcher - Galena; four grandchildren - Forest Mitchem, Bowen Gade, Sydney Gade and Shiloh Mitchem; and one sister, Wanda Ann Durham - Rich Hill.

Services were held Friday, Dec. 11, in Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

Those who wish may contribute in his memory to the American Cancer Society in care of Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washington, Nevada, MO 64772.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Patrick Wayne Larkie

Patrick Wayne Larkie, 60, of El Dorado Springs, passed away after a short illness on Dec. 7, 2009. He was born April 21, 1949, in El Dorado Springs to Jessie and Juanita (Rust) Larkie.

He grew up and attended school in Milford and then for a brief time in El Dorado Springs and Kansas City.

Besides many other work experiences, Patrick was a roofer for many years. Patrick taught his kids the roofing trade, daughters as well as sons. He enjoyed repairing the grandchildren’s bicycles. He loved walking, being outdoors in nature and fishing.

Patrick was well liked and had many friends who knew him as “Pat.” He enjoyed meeting people and spending time at coffee
shops and convenience stores with friends.

Patrick believed in his God, was saved and baptized and was Pentecostal in belief. He enjoyed and was proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchild. He loved his pets and had two dogs, a Jack Russell Terrier named “Bob” and a Chihuahua named “Shay Lyn” and a 14 year old cockatiel named “Romeo.”

Patrick was blessed with three children - one son, Patrick and two daughters, Lark and Tiffanie.

Preceding Patrick in death was: his son, Patrick J. Larkie; his father, Jesse F. Larkie; his grandparents; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Survivors include two daughters, Lark Amberg and Tiffanie Mackey; his mother and stepfather, Juanita and Robert MacAuthur; five grandchildren - Nathan Amberg, Catherine Gray, Martin Gray, Basha and Tarina Larkie; and five children he loved as his own - Deena, Darin (Charity), Karen (Doug), Jason (Tracy) and Terri; 11 grandchildren he loved as his own - Kamber, Bryan, Tana, Lloyd, Amanda, Skyler, Ryan, Skyla, Mikayla, Jaden and Darin Jr.; and one great-granddaughter, Hannah. Other survivors include longtime friend, Linda Lumley; 10 brothers and sisters - Johnny Ray (Mary) Larkie, Willa M. (Andy) Stillman, Richard (Betty) Sparks, Mary (Bill) Moore, Rhonda (Calvin) Trent, Lewis (Rhonda) Sparks, David (Cora) Sparks, Mark Sparks, May (Jr.) Fleetwood and Kay Sparks; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many cousins.

The family will receive friends at Bland-Hackleman Chapel from 1-2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12. Services will begin at 2 p.m. at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Suzy Lynch officiating. Interment will follow in El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be - Doug Berten, Bryan Courtney, Skyler Dozler, Lloyd Johnson, Tana Lumley and Ryan Rash. Honorary pallbearers are Richard Jackson, Lloyd Bruce, Gary Allison, Delbert Warren, Scott Evans and Ron West.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to help with funeral expenses and left at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Clara Vineta (Renfro) Lambeth


Clara Vineta (Renfro) Lambeth, 81, was born Sept. 21, 1928, in Cookston OK, to William E. and Della Mae (Griffy) Renfro. She departed from her loved ones on earth to be with loved ones with God on Dec. 5, 2009, at Community Springs Healthcare Facility in El Dorado Springs.

She was united in marriage to Albert Noel Lambeth on March 9, 1962. Their children are Wyveda “Faye,” Bill “Dub,” Orval, Bob, Bonnie, Mike and Randy.

Vineta and her family moved to El Dorado Springs from the family farm near Jerico Springs. She loved to watch kids and grandkids run and play, work in the garden, canning, fishing, working with her rabbits and dogs and entertain friends and family. She spent the last few months at the Community Springs Health Care Facility.

Vineta goes to join those loved ones that preceded her in death who include her parents; three brothers - George, John Henry “Buck” and Mack; one sister, Susie Holloway; and one grandson, Nathan Johnson.

She is survived by her husband, Noel; two daughters, Wyveda Robinson, and her husband, Mel, and Bonnie Lawrence, and her husband, Steve; five sons - William Renfro, and his wife, Cheryl, Orval Renfro, Bob Lambeth, and his wife, Teri, Mike Lambeth, and his wife, Karla, and Randy Lambeth; 12 grandchildren – Toni, Nathan, Steve, Sherrie, Ralph, Gerrie, Brandon, Wesly, Shasta, Tracy, Paul and Elizabeth; several great-grandchildren, in laws, nieces and nephews and friends.

The family suggests contributions to the American Diabetes Association in care of the Sheldon Funeral Home.

Services began at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9, in Sheldon Chapel with Rev. Brent Bland officiating. Music was One Day At A Time, In The Sweet Bye And Bye, The Old Rugged Cross and Amazing Grace.

Casketbearers were - Marty Brooks, Roy Dale Miller, Brent Harmon, Steve Lawrence, Wesley Goodwin, Ralph Lawrence, Justin Harmon, Brandon Lambeth and Paul Jones. Interment was in Hamby Cemetery Stockton.

Arrangements were by Sheldon Funeral Home of El Dorado Springs.

Friday, December 4, 2009

Lowell Virgil Schlotzhauer


Lowell Virgil Schlotzhauer, 77, Jerico Springs, died Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, at St. John’s Regional Medical Center, after a long-term illness with recent complications. Lowell was born Jan. 2, 1932, at the family home in Pleasant Grove to Virgil and Eunice (Hickam) Schlotzhauer.

He graduated high school at Pilot Grove and attended the Baptist Church. 

In 1950, he married Ruth Lavern Purdy. They had three children and they divorced in 1976. In 1980, he married Patsy Nell (Music) King at Richards.

Lowell worked as a small engine mechanic at Barton County Implement for 23 years, retiring in 2005 because of health problems.

Lowell was preceded in death by his wife, Pat, in 1985; his son, Randal Lowell Schlotzhauer, age 20, in 1980; and twin great-grandsons, Dreygan and Riley Taffner, in 2009.

Survivors include two daughters, Donna Waterhouse, and husband, Rick - El Dorado Springs, and Diane Schlotzhauer, and husband, Bill Armstrong - of El Dorado Springs; three brothers - Aubrey Schlotzhauer - Pilot Grove, Jimmy Schlotzhauer - Warsaw, and Barry Schlotzhauer - Kansas City, and their families; seven grandchildren - Arlinda Johnson, Blake Water-house, Chauntae Waterhouse, Annette, and husband, Jason Sheriff, Johnathan, and wife, Sarah Taffner, Danielle, and husband, Philip Row, and Virgil and Catie Taffner; three great-grandchildren - Jeremiah Johnson, Hannah Johnson and Emily Taffner; and numerous other family and friends.

Services were held Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Daniel Funeral Home with burial in Newton Burial Park in Nevada.

Contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences left at www. danielfuneralhome.net.