Saturday, October 30, 2010

Donis Maxine (Tuder) Hartline

Donis Maxine (Tuder) Hartline, 84, El Dorado Springs, passed away Saturday, Oct. 30, 2010, at Community Springs Nursing Home. She was born May 3, 1926, in Randolph, IA, to Floyd and Eula (McMilin) Tuder. She was a member of the First Baptist Church.

Maxine was raised in Missouri and married John Hartline on July 3, 1943. They sold their farm in Walker and moved to El Dorado
Springs in 1974. John passed away Nov. 22, 1999.

Maxine loved the Montana and Idaho mountains. She enjoyed reading, cooking family dinners and drinking coffee at the Powderhorn Restaurant.

Preceding Maxine in death were her parents; her husband; an infant son; one great great-grandchild; and one sister and one brother.

Surviving are her three sons - Jack Hartline, and wife, Neta - El Dorado Springs, Terry Hartline - Lamar, and Tom Hartline - Marshall; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family received friends on Tuesday, Nov. 2, from 6-7 p.m. at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home. Services began at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 3, at the Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Brent Bland officiating. Interment followed in Clintonville Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Landon Hartline, Tim Hartline, Tom Hartline, Kent Bland, Jim Weaver and Travis Leonard.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Arthur E. 'Gene' Alexander

Arthur E. “Gene” Alexander, 84, Rayville, died at 10:20 a.m. Friday, Oct. 29, 2010, at the Excelsior Springs Nursing and Rehab Center. Gene was born on April 23, 1926, in El Dorado Springs to Arthur Glenn and Stella (Shaw) Alexander.

He married Venora Sue Adams of Kansas City, on June 30, 1946. She survives of the home.

Gene was a plant manager for Continental Disc in Kansas City for over 20 years. He was a member of the Rayville Christian Union Church. He was a Past Master of Raytown Masonic Lodge #391. He was a United States Navy Veteran of WW II. He had lived in Kansas City before moving to the Rayville area in 1986.

In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by one brother who died in infancy; five sisters- Essie Hilburn, Eunice Duke, Ann Starkey, Mary Cook and Louise Jordan.

In addition to his wife, survivors include, two daughters and two sons-in-law, Terri and Gary West – Independence, and Kathie and Dan Paige - Festus; four grandchildren - Kimberly Lynch, Alex West and his wife, Pam, Adam Paige and Kaitlynn Paige; and three great-grandchildren - Donovan Paige, Annali and Tyler West.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Rayville Christian Union Church.

Services were held on Tuesday, Nov. 2, at the Rayville Christian Union Church. Burial was in the Old New Garden Cemetery in Wood Heights, MO. Arrangements: Thurman Funeral Home, 507 E. Main, P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085 (816) 776-2233.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Michael Dennis Helm


Michael Dennis Helm, 48, was born March 14, 1962, at Cedar County Hospital, El Dorado Springs, to Bob and Joy Helm. He left us to go on his final hunting trip on Oct. 25, 2010, surrounded by his family in his home.

Mike was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bob and Christine Helm, Bob Pankey and Murrell Pankey Headlee; uncles, Jack and Rudy Pankey and David Helm.

Mike graduated from El Dorado Springs High School in May of 1980. He then went on to serve our Country in the Navy for the next four years.

At the time of his passing he was the Area Supervisor for Venture Communications.

Other than Mike’s true love of his family and friends, he loved to hunt for the big buck, trot line for the biggest fish and sit and wait for the big bear to walk in.

Mike and Jeanie were married Oct. 18, 1991. They shared their life with their four children - Mike, Zac, Lacy and Tori Helm.

Mike is survived by his wife, Jeanie – of the home; his children - daughter, Tori - of the home, sons, Mike - El Dorado Springs, Zac – Lamar, and Lacy (Helm) Baker - El Dorado; his dad, Bob Helm, and wife, Claudia - El Dorado; his mom, Joy Scott, and husband, Walter - Appleton City; brothers, Ken Helm, and wife, Lori, and Randy Helm, and wife, Shelly; sister, Lori Helm-Thorne; nephews and nieces - Ryan, Uncle Amber, Allyx, Matt, Symantha (Slam), Brittney, Tyler, Ashley, Quincy, Sawyer and Saddie; and grandbaby’s - Brendan, Pyper, Adrian, Laika, Ellie, Evyn, Reagan and Riley, Colton, and to all those that Mike loves and you know who you are.

Services will begin at 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6, F.O.E. Eagles #4279 with Rev. Brent Bland and Rev. Sam Masters officiating.

Music will be Friends In Low Places, Momma Tried, Live Like You Were Dying and Go Rest High On That Mountain. Final disposition cremation.

Arrangements by Sheldon Funeral of Home El Dorado Springs.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tori's college fund at Mid Missouri Bank.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Jerry Robert Groom

Jerry Robert Groom, 59, Harrisonville, passed away at KU Medical Center on Friday, Oct. 22, 2010. Jerry was born Dec. 10, 1950, in Smithville. He spent his early childhood in the Gower and Stewartsville area and later in Independence. His parents were Floyd Edard (“Ted”) Groom and Margaret Mildred Donelson Groom. Jerry was the 13th child of 16 children.

He married his wife of 25 years, Linda Davis Eason Groom on Sept. 12, 1985, at his mother’s home in Independence. Jerry had three stepchildren - Lenton E. Eason IV (“Bud”) - Harrisonville, Richard M. Eason - El Dorado Springs, and Joan M., and husband, Buril W. Hardin - El Dorado Springs.

Jerry graduated from Truman High School in Independence and immediately went into the military service. He was a Navy veteran and served in the Vietnam War. Jerry was employed by the Federal Aviation Administration for over 30 years. He was a member of VFW Post 4409 of Harrisonville.

Jerry enjoyed his animals, fishing, working in his vegetable and flower gardens and was especially proud of his rose garden. He was looking forward to retirement and moving to the farm in the El Dorado Springs area.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Harrison and Floyd, three brothers-in-law - Bill O’Connor, Charles Hartman and James (“Wimpy)” Hollar.

He is survived by his wife Linda, stepchildren - Bud, Richard, Joan, and husband, Buril; grandchildren - Ashley, Buddy, Cody, Cassie, Cherise, Talon and Larissa; great-grandchild, Landon; sisters, Lucille O’Connor, Helen Hartman, Dixie Hollar, Barbara Prosser, and husband, Bob, Bonnie Shaw, and husband, Jerry, Carol Johnson, and husband, Bill, Joan Herring, and husband, Carrol, Sherry Barron, and husband, Harold, Janie Veach, and husband, Randy, Joyce Clay, and husband, Mike, and Kathy Cockrum, and husband, Troy; brothers, Jim, and wife Norma, and George, and wife, Becky; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Services were held at 1:30 p.m. at the Church of Christ on Wednesday, Oct. 27, with David Studer officiating. Interment followed in the Clintonville Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Bud Eason, Richard Eason, Talon Hardin, Jim Groom, Harold Barron and Mike Clay. Honorary Pallbearers were - Buril Hardin, Landon Hardin, George Groom and Norm Donelson.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Harrisonville VFW Post 4409; the American Heart Association; the American Cancer Society; or Fair Haven Children’s Home and sent to the Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Randall Lee Barger


Randall Lee Barger, 50, called “Randy” by family, “Bagger” by friends, was born Oct. 1, 1960, in Nevada, and passed from this life on Friday, Oct. 22, 2010, at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, after a lengthy illness. He was the only son born to Albert Lee and Norma June (Teague) Barger.

Randy grew up fishing and hunting with his dad. After graduating from El Dorado Springs High School in 1979, he moved to Texas with some of his buddies, working as a landscaper. He relocated from there to Kansas City, then Arkansas where he worked for Tyson before moving back home to El Dorado Springs. He then worked for TLT Wire and built houses.

He became ill in 2002-2003 with acute pancreatitis and, after surgery, was an insulin dependent diabetic. Those who knew Randy knew he could be the most loving man, the best friend, brother and son and, at the same time, knew he could be as stubborn as a mule. The last few years, as his health declined, his sister, Karen, took him to all of his appointments and both sisters cared for him. They were with him while he took his final breath singing him the songs they knew as children sitting in the church pew with family.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and numerous other relatives and friends.

He is survived by his older sister, Kim Nimmo – Schell City; his younger sister, Karen Gooden – Nevada; his step-mother, Barbara; step-brother, David, and his wife, Melody; step-sister, Linda, and her husband, Steve; and a brother-in-law, Homer; several nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

“You never though you would make it to ‘50’ but you did it big brother. I love you and I will miss you dearly.”

A memorial service for Randy (Bagger) Barger will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, in the Fellowship Hall of the Assembly of God Church at the Corner of Park and Freeman. Friends and family please come and share a story. Nothing fancy; come as you are.

Donations will be appreciated for Randy’s final expenses.

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

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Hazel Orene McCormick

Hazel Orene (Taylor) McCormick, 93, El Dorado Springs, daughter of Bessie May (Wright) Taylor King and Rennie Amos Taylor, was born Jan. 7, 1917, on a farm near Preston, in Hickory County. She passed away Oct. 21, 2010, at Nevada Regional Medical Center. Bessie and Rennie were the parents of three children - Hazel, Edith and Rowena. After Rennie passed away at an early age, Bessie married Joseph E. King who thought of her children as his own.

Most of Hazel’s life was lived in Cedar County. She attended school in El Dorado Springs. On Nov. 3, 1934, at the age of 17, she married Estal Floyd (Jack) McCormick and to this union six children were born - Estal, Don, Sam, Dolores, Darlene and Jerry.

Hazel and Jack raised their family on a farm outside of El Dorado Springs until Jack’s health began to fail. They moved to town and Hazel went to work for the International Shoe Co. She was a dedicated employee for 18 years until the plant closed in 1981. Hazel spent the rest of her time helping her kids and taking care of her grandchildren. She lived on her own until her failing health required her to move to Harrisonville to be with her daughter, Dolores, who lovingly cared for her until her final days.

Hazel’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She was the happiest helping her kids and taking care of her grandchildren. She loved to sew and spent many hours making quilts for each family member which they will cherish forever.
She never missed a sporting event or a graduation. Her family’s accomplishments were important to her. She enjoyed going to Branson on many occasions. Hazel was a loving, caring mother and grandmother and in return was so loved and respected by her family.

Hazel was a member of the Church of the Nazarene of El Dorado Springs and attended faithfully until her health declined. She loved the Lord and her church family was important to her.

Hazel was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack; her children - Estal, Sam and Darlene; and her sisters, Edith and Rowena.

She is survived by her daughter, Dolores; her sons, Don and Jerry, and wife, Donna; nine grandchildren - Becky, Missy, Mike, Doug, Cammy, Sam, Darrin, Melissa and Michael; 13 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a host of friends.
Hazel will be remembered as a loving, Christian mother, always putting the needs of others before her own. She was truly loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

The family received friends on Saturday, Oct. 23, at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home. Services were held on Sunday, Oct. 24, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Wendell Daniel officiating. Interment followed in El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Don Mc-Cormick, Jerry McCormick, Sammy McCormick, Michael McCormick, Doug Mc-Cormick, Darrin Duffey, Brent Duffey and Justin Gould. Honorary pallbearers were - Melissa Gould, Melissa Sawyer, Morgan McCormick, Cammy Bailey and Rebecca Granger.

O. Lavone Scott 'Sis'

O. Lavone Scott “Sis”, 87, Kansas City, KS, passed away Oct. 21, 2010, at her home.

She lived her life with grace and believed that the best was always ahead. When most people would have folded under the pain and grief that so often came her way, she did not waver – in fact, she held us all close and promised a brighter tomorrow.

Her laugh was infectious, her compassion unending, her resolve inspiring.

To you, she was the special neighbor, the dear friend, the older sister who could make sense of disorder, the aunt that completed the family and gave it heart and soul.

To me, she was Mom and so much more. She was my best friend.

I know someday she will take my hand again and I will thank the heavens for that glorious reunion.

Thank you, Mom, Sis, Lavon for loving us. Rest now, dear lady.

Lavone was preceded in death by her son, William Randy Scott; her husband, George T. Scott; and her parents, Richard and Ethel Craven.

Survivors include her son, Donald Scott; brother, Robert Ual Craven, and niece, Joy Dobbs, and husband, Rick, and their sons, Travis and Lucas Dobbs.

Private graveside services were held on Monday, Oct. 25, at Maple Hill Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Wilda Jean Hill

Wilda Jean Hill, 72, El Dorado Springs, passed away on Monday, Oct. 18, 2010, at St. John’s Regional Health Center in Springfield. She was born Aug. 8, 1938, in Tiffin, to William J. and Jessie C. (Hays) Oehring.

Wilda graduated high school at Appleton City. She worked for several years at the International Shoe Factory in El Dorado Springs. Later she worked as a barkeeper.

She was married to Virgil (Sonny) Hill and to this union one son was born, Sonny Jean Hill.

Gardening was a joy to Wilda, especially working with flowers. In later years she loved garage sales and enjoyed visiting and being with people.

Preceding Wilda in death were her parents; her son, Sonny Jean, in 2006; her sister, Shirley Zinn; and Virgil (Sonny) Hill.

Survivors include two brothers, Charles Oehring, and wife, Rebecca - El Dorado Springs, and Howard Oehring, and wife, Connie - Greenfield; two uncles, Robert (Bob) Oehring and Jack Oehring, and wife, Lucille - all of El Dorado Springs; nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends.

Service will begin at 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21, at Bland-Hackleman Chapel. Rev. Brent Bland and Rev. Larry Wheeler will officiate. Interment will follow in Taberville Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be - Michael Ray, Dennis Ray, Steven Oehring, Donald Hamilton, Edd Bartkoski and Jerry Craven.

Clara Muriel Adams Hammer

Clara Muriel Adams Hammer, 96, Kennewick, WA, passed away Oct. 18, 2010. Muriel was born July 14, 1914, in the home of her parents, E.R. and Gertrude Adams, in Cedar County.

Muriel was saved as a young girl and joined the Baptist Church. She attended as long as her health permitted.

Muriel graduated from El Dorado Springs High School.

On Sept. 14, 1935, she married William Henry Hammer in Vernon County. They were bless with two children, Dennis Dean and Patsy Sue.

Preceding Muriel in death were her parents, Eddie and Trudy Adams; daughter, Patsy Sue; three sisters - Ruby Barritt, Virginia Carter and Elizabeth Schwalm; and six brothers – Eugene, Floyd, James, Paul, Lawrence and Kenneth Adams.

Muriel is survived by her son, Dennis, and wife, Vonda, and granddaughter, Jennifer Lynn.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Marvin Curtis Powers

Marvin Curtis Powers, 69, El Dorado Springs, passed away Sunday, Oct. 17, 2010, at Medicalodges of Nevada, MO. He was born Jan. 9, 1941, in El Dorado Springs to Marvin Newton Powers and Ella Mae (Sumner) Powers.

Curtis graduated high school in El Dorado Springs. He worked for a while as a lineman in the Kansas City area and then owned and operated a marina and boat dock on Stockton Lake. While there, he served as a fisherman’s guide and was reported to know every hollow log and good fishing spot on the lake. Later he owned a backhoe and septic tank service business in Stockton.

While his health permitted, Curtis loved to fish and hunt. After his health deteriorated, he was a resident in the nursing home for several years.

Preceding him in death were his parents and one brother, Harry Lee Powers, who was killed in the Vietnam War.

Survivors include his son, M.C. Powers; an uncle, Tom Powers, and his wife, Catherine - Neosho; many cousins and other relatives and friends.

The family received friends at Bland-Hackleman Chapel from noon until service time at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 20. Rev. James Coleman officiated. Interment followed in Mound Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

James Kimble Kiefer Sr.

James Kimble Kiefer Sr, 92, of Williams, OR, died on Tuesday, Oct. 12, 2010.

No public services are planned. Private inurnment will be at Eagle Point National Cemetery near Medford, OR.

He was born Nov. 28, 1917, in El Dorado Springs to Charles and Clara Kiefer. He, his parents, an older brother, Morris, and their extended family lived in El Dorado Springs for many years.

During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy as a Master Chief Machinists Mate.

In 1945, Brooklyn, NY, he married Dolores Teresa Brueckner who died in 1976. From 1950 to 1975, he worked as the Building

Superintendent for the City of Kansas City, Missouri, overseeing all city-owned buildings. In 1990, he moved to Oregon from Santa Ana, CA, to live with his son.

He was a member of the Greater Kansas City Art Association and enjoyed painting, steam engines and robotics.

Survivors include a son, James Kiefer Jr. of Williams, OR, and a daughter, Karen Kiefer, of Ogilvie, MN.

To see a personal remembrance of Kim online, please visit his daughter’s website at www.kieferart.com and click “A few thoughts ...” on the homepage tribute.

Johnnie Mitchell

Johnnie Mitchell, 81, El Dorado Springs, passed away Oct. 12, 2010, at Community Springs Nursing Home in El Dorado Springs. He was born March 23, 1929, to Leve and Lula (Barger) Mitchell in Preston.

The family moved to Caplinger Mills when he was six years old. He attended school at Caplinger Mills. Johnnie was saved and baptized at the Caplinger Mills Baptist Church at the age of 17.

Johnnie married the Love of his Life, Verda Mae Keith, on July 3, 1954, at the home of Reverend Ralph Marcum. They were blessed with many friends and extended family.

Johnnie’s love for music was the greatest thing in his life, besides his wife. His parents gave him his first guitar when he was nine years old. He taught himself to play the dobro, fiddle, guitar, mandolin and harmonica. Johnnie wrote many beautiful hymns and won several fiddle contests. Verda and Johnnie loved Blue Grass music and they attended lots of festivals together.
He had many friends he played music with.

When Johnnie was a teenager he went to work at the mill in Caplinger Mills. He worked in Kansas City at a machine shop for a while and then moved back to Caplinger Mills. He then went to work at the International Shoe Factory where he met Verda in August of 1953. He owned and operated Mitchell Radio and TV in downtown El Dorado Springs for several years. He worked at Witt Engineering for a few years and then returned to the International Shoe Factory, where he retired after 17 years.

Johnnie loved to fish and hunt and he loved his dog, Spot. He also loved to treasure hunt with his metal detector. He read and studied the Bible and never lost his faith in the Lord.

Preceding Johnnie in death were his parents and sister, Ethel Solovey.

Johnnie is survived by his loving wife, Verda Mae, of the home; his brother, Fred, and wife, of Caplinger Mills; a sister-in-law, Edna Lutes; a niece, Nadine Wasden; a nephew, Clayton Lutes, and wife, Diana - all of Las Vegas, NV; nephews, Dennis Keith, and wife, Carolyn - El Dorado Springs; Fred Keith - New Florence; Kenneth Keith - Columbia; Darrel Keith and Larry Keith - Kansas City; and several great-nieces and great-nephews. Other survivors include his special friends and cousin, John and Sharon Barger, and their sons, Joe, Michael and David, and their families; and his special neighbor, Bea Farmer.
Services were held at Bland-Hackleman Chapel on Saturday, Oct. 16, with Rev. Brent Bland officiating. Jana Farrington provided music. Interment followed in Love Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were: Mike Barger, David Barger, Joe Barger, Dennis Keith, Kenneth Keith and Justin Johnson. Honorary pallbearers were: Frank DeShazo, Kelly Jones, Larry Lutes, Clayton Lutes and Jack Killingsworth.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Leslie Franklin Cox

Leslie Franklin Cox, 60 - El Dorado Springs, was born April 23, 1950, in Cedar County, to Willie Lee (Pace) Cox and Chester Thomas Cox. He passed away in his home on Oct. 10, 2010, of an apparent heart attack.

He married Marta Sue Trent and to this union one daughter, Daphne Lynn, was born on Aug. 16, 1974. He later married Mary Costello.

Frank worked at several jobs: Sheldon Dairy, Alexander Trucking, Allison Tires, Stockton Nursing Home and was last employed at Dunbrooke Shirt Factory.

Frank was saved at Pleasant Ridge Missionary Baptist Church when he was 12 years old.

He was a hard worker, an honest man and a wonderful brother and friend. Frank enjoyed being with family and friends and was a blessing to all.

He was preceded in death by his father, Chester Thomas Cox and both sets of grandparents, Charles and Annie Cox and “Dude” and Ellen Pace.

Survivors include: his daughter, Daphne Lynn Cox - Quapaw, OK; his mother, Willie Lee Cox - Nevada; two brothers, Russell Cox, and family - El Dorado Springs, and Elvin (Abe) Cox, and his wife, Joyce, of Nevada; two sisters: Marcile Hurshman – Nevada, and Nelda Elaine Shaw, and her husband, Myrle - El Dorado Springs; several nieces and nephews; a special friend, Starla Lucas; and many other friends.

A visitation time to share memories with family and friends was held on Saturday, Oct. 16. Final disposition was cremation.
Arrangements were under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Church of Christ food pantry.

Leta Muriel Jones

Leta Muriel Jones, 85, El Dorado Springs, passed away on Sunday morning, October 10, 2010, the daughter of George Emmit Smith and Marzie Smith, and she was born on Feb. 1, 1925, in Osceola.

For many years, prior to her retirement, Leta was an employee at Witt Printing Co. She always enjoyed living in El Dorado Springs and attending the annual celebration.

Leta was an active member of the First Baptist Church of El Dorado Springs. She loved her flowers and decorating her home.

Leta was a kind and loving wife and mother. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Leta was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 54 years, Herman H. Jones, in August of 2000; her brother, Emmit Jr. Smith; and two half-sisters, Ruth Duranske and Esther Stewart.

Leta is survived by one son, Glen Jones, and his wife, Mary and their children - Joel, Jonathan and Melissa - of Lee’s Summit; one sister, Georgia Jones - Independence; and several nieces and nephews.

Services were held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 13, in the First Baptist Church in El Dorado Springs. Rev. Ron Marsh officiated and Rusty Carver and Rita Farris provided music. Interment followed in El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - Tim Carter, Bob Roe, Ron Sewell, Bob Burris, Jack Wallace and Justin Wallace. Honorary pallbearers were - C. E. Hackleman, Ray Bozarth, Harold Fugate, Vess Swopes and Daryl Barnett.

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Shirley Jean (Holland) Reynolds

Shirley Jean (Holland) Reynolds, 79, was born Jan. 22, 1931, to Gladys and Forrest Holland, and passed away Oct. 9, 2010, in Bates County .

Shirley left school at the end of her sophomore year and always dreamed of going to college. Later, at the age of 34, she realized that dream by going to Warrensburg College and finished in three years at the age of 37 with a degree in education. She then taught school for over 30 years, specializing in Special Education.

She was married to Myrl Reynolds on Dec. 20, 1971, until his death in 2007.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Myrl Reynolds, and grandson, Matthew Young.

Shirley is survived by two brothers, Ken and Rose Holland – Butler, and Richard and Lois Holland – Yakimah, WA; three children and one step-daughter: Ricky Lee Osborn, and wife, Diann – Joplin, Larry Don Osborn, and wife, Vicki – El Dorado Springs, Kathy
Sue Osborn – Las Vegas, NV, and Patricia Driskill, and husband, Bob – Clinton; 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service was held at the home on Friday, Oct. 15.

Arrangements under the direction of Sheldon Funeral Home of El Dorado Springs.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Margie Louise Snyder

Margie Louise Ingram Colvin Snyder, 90, of El Dorado Springs, passed away Oct. 7, 2010. Margie was born June 6, 1920, in Harrisonville to James W. and Laurel Ladean Fry Ingram.

When she was four years old, her parents moved to Parsons, KS, where she was raised and attended school through the ninth grade. She dropped out of high school to help care for her younger siblings.

In 1940, Margie married Carl Owen Colvin Sr. They had two sons, Carl Owen Jr. and James Luther. They made their home in Independence. On March 25, 1961, Carl Sr. passed away. In 1970, Margie met and married John C. Snyder. They lived in Denver, CO, until John’s retirement in 1983, when they moved to Brashear. Margie and John became members of Brashear Community Bible Church and she taught the senior adult Sunday School class for several years. After his death in 2001, Margie moved to El Dorado Springs to be near her son. There she attended the United Methodist Church until her death.

Margie spent most of her life as a housewife. Besides caring for her husband and sons, she also became caregiver to Carl’s mother for several years. After she married John, his mother moved in with them and, again, Margie became caregiver to her mother-in-law. When her sons were young, she served as a Cub Scout Den Mother and also did babysitting in her home to help with the family income.

Margie was preceded in death by her parents, James W. (1986) and Laurel Ladean (1957) Ingram; her sister, Doris Johnston (1980), brother James E. Ingram; her husband of 21 years, Carl Colvin Sr. (1961); her oldest son, Carl Colvin Jr. (2008); and her second husband of 31 years, John Snyder (2001).

Margie is survived by her son, James Luther Colvin, and his wife, Mildred; grandchildren - Rebecca del Valle, and husband, Arvin, Jonathan Colvin and Daniel Colvin; great-granddaughters - Keirra and Kodee del Valle and Jessica Colvin; two sisters, Juanita Matheny and Evelyn Powell, and her husband, Robert; one brother, William Ingram, and his wife, Mary; nephews - Robert Matheny, William Eugene Holder, Larry Ray Ingram, James and Michael Ingram; nieces - Vickie Ingram, Judy Snyder, LaDonna Cutler, Juanita Williams, Mary Williams, Donna Holder and Gail Ingram; and many friends.

Graveside services were held on Sunday, Oct. 10, at Pattonsburg Memorial Gardens in Pattonsburg. Jim Colvin officiated. Local arrangements were entrusted to Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Donna L. Smith


Donna LaNeill Smith, 65, was born Feb. 24, 1945, in Kansas City, the daughter of George Neil and Helen Louise (Caywood) Smith.

She had two sisters, Lana Wilson and Terri Heitz.

She graduated from El Dorado Springs High School in 1963. She attended Pitts-burg State University and Southwest MO University. She received her B.S. in Library Science from Emporia State, her Master’s degree from KU and became the Cancer Registrar at Lawrence Memorial Hospital. She was a Master Gardener.

She worked for Jack and Pauline Simone during high school. Early on, she was interested in Medical Records and she made that her lifelong career. She worked at Nevada State Hospital, V.A. Hospital in Kansas City, St. John’s Hospital and Cox Medical Center in Springfield, Ellett Memorial Hospital in Appleton City, Suburban Hospital in KC, Tucson Medical Center, Phoenix Medical Center and worked for several years two different times at Lawrence Memorial Hospital. She retired in October 2008 due to ill health.

Most of her most pleasant times were spent with her family, Loel, Lana and Lee Wilson, Dale, Terri, Cliff and Ashley Heitz, her great nieces and nephews: Lacie, Adi, Asa and Parker, her two nieces-in-law, Stacey Wilson and Michelle Heitz, and, just this past July, her new nephew–in-law, David Rogers.

She was diagnosed in 2007 with terminal cancer along with a short life expectancy but she lived three and a half years and the family spent many happy times making all the memories they could. She was treated by Dr. Matthew Stein. He and his staff were tireless in their quest to make her life as long as possible and still have quality. She and the family were grateful for the time that she had.

She died on Oct. 6, 2010, at Lawrence Memorial Hospital where she spent many hours working in the Medical Records Department. She made the decision to donate her body to K.U. Medical Center in hopes that it might help in finding a cure for her disease. At a later date, her remains will be sent to the family and she will be buried next to her dad and mother at the Bethel Campground Cemetery in Benton County, near Edwards, MO.

Donna not only leaves behind her Wilson and Heitz families, she is survived by three cousins - Steve Smith, Jaxcene Beisner and Jill Price of El Dorado Springs, two uncles and several other cousins.

Friends and family are invited to a remembrance of Donna’s life to be held at the Smith family home at 305 Allison Road, Saturday, Oct. 16. Please feel free to come any time between 2 and 5 p.m.

The family requests donations be made to the High Hopes Chapter of the American Cancer Society in care of Janice Carter, 3324 S. 311 Road, El Dorado Springs, MO 64744.

Robert Francis Humbird 'Bob'


Robert Francis Humbird “Bob,” age 62, of El Dorado Springs, formerly of Lee’s Summit, went home on Oct 6, 2010, after an eight month battle with cancer. He was born to William and Cletus Humbird on Nov. 3, 1947.

Retired after 33 years of dedicated service at Armco Steel in Kansas City, He moved to El Dorado Springs, in search of a“less hectic” life. Bob enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Fishing, camping, metal detecting and other outdoor activities were some of his hobbies. He loved telling stories and making grandchildren laugh.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Luther and Pearl Humbird, and his parents, William and Cletus Humbird.

Survivors include his loving wife, Sue Humbird, of 35 years; mother-in-law, Vera “Granny” Wright of Kansas City; two sons, Darryle Humbird, and his wife, April – of Kansas City; and Jason Humbird, and his wife, Erin – of El Dorado Springs; one daughter, Stephanie Grisham – of Lee’s Summit; six grandchildren, Kalie and Kiersten Grisham; Tressa, Isaac and Gracie Humbird and Samantha Storey; two step-grandchildren, Edward and Kirsten Culbertson – of Blue Springs.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Oct. 16, 2010, at the United Methodist Church of El Dorado Springs.

Eva Mae Swopes


Eva Mae Dunning Swopes, 83, El Dorado Springs, was born Sept. 4, 1927, to Herbert and Leona (Boots) Dunning on the family farm in St. Clair County west of Lowry City. She passed away Oct. 6, 2010, at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield.

Eva graduated from Lowry City High School in 1945.

Vernon and Eva met in 1943 while he was on leave. She wrote to Vernon while he was in the service and they were later married.

She was united in marriage on Aug. 6, 1949, to Vernon Swopes. To this union four children were born - Jerry Swopes of Miami, OK, Jim Swopes of El Dorado Springs, Joe Swopes of Belle Vista, AR, and Joyce (Swopes) Smith of Mounds, OK.

Eva was baptized in 1962 as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and attended the El Dorado Springs Congregation. She enjoyed wearing many hats over the years but her greatest joy was being a wife, mother and grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and two sisters, Verda Dunning and Josephine Bellmeyer.

She is survived by her husband, Vernon; four children and their spouses, Jerry and Polly Swopes, Jim and Kandy Swopes, Joe and Janet Swopes and Tim and Joyce Smith; one brother, Herbert Dunning - Independence, three sisters - Margie Moran - Lowry City, Retha Wilson and Audrey Harliman – Independence; her grandchildren - Jason and Rachel Hardee - Miami, OK, Kristal Swopes - Columbus, KS, Jered and Becky Swopes – Miami, OK, Beau and Elisabeth Swopes - El Dorado Springs, Cody and Rachael Swopes - Broken Arrow, OK, Caitlin Swopes - Nevada, Jasmine Quinn and Rachel Smith - Mounds, OK, Drew and Jaima English - Tulsa, OK, and Hannah Swopes - Columbia, her great grandchildren - Madelyn Swopes, Jaden Hardee, Emma Hardee, Willa Swopes, Kyndal Joe Swopes and Finnegan Swopes; and many more nieces and nephews, family and friends.

Services were held Sunday, Oct. 10, at Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs, with Brother George Brown officiating. Final disposition, cremation.

Arrangements by Sheldon Funeral home in El Dorado Springs.

Shirley Ann Biby

Shirley Anna Biby, 62, El Dorado Springs, passed from this life on Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2010, at Nevada Regional Medical Center after a long illness. She was born Feb. 14, 1948, in Mindenmines to James W. and Dolly A. (Edwards) Anderson.

Shirley graduated from Nevada Vo Tech School of Practical Nursing in 1989 and worked as an LPN for 15 years. She was married to Carl Schneidewind in 2003. She adored her husband, children and grandchildren. In later years she enjoyed spending her free time reading, sewing and crocheting.

Preceding Shirley in death were her parents, five brothers and one sister.

Survivors include her husband, Carl Schneidewind, of El Dorado Springs; three sons - Eric Biby - Mulberry, KS, Aaron Biby - Pittsburg, KS, and Anthony Biby - El Dorado Springs; one brother, Dale Anderson - Kansas City, KS; one sister, Cecile Brewer -Gillette, WY; nine grandchildren; and two step-children, Chris Schneidewind and Julia Schneidewind.

A memorial service was held in the Family Life Center at the Church of God (Holiness) in El Dorado Springs on Oct. 10.

Arrangements were under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be left at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home to help the family with expenses.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Patricia Jo (Dobbs) Amick


Patricia Jo (Dobbs) Amick, 53, El Dorado Springs, passed away on Oct. 4, 2010, after fighting a long battle with cancer.
On Feb. 6, 1976, she was married to Eldon Amick.

Pat owned Cedar Creek Beef Jerky at the time of her passing. She had been affiliated with the jerky business for approximately 20 years in either management or ownership. She also owned a farm where she loved to go to get away from her worries and spend time with her grandkids.

Preceding her in death were her father, Kenneth Dobbs, and one brother, Dennis Dobbs.

Pat leaves behind two sons, Justin Amick and Kendall Burns; a daughter-in-law, April Amick; three grandsons - Dylan, Wyatt and Garrett; her mother, Martha Dobbs; five brothers - Gary, Cotton, Sonny, Rick and Doug; and six sisters - Beverly McKinley, Deanna Hada, Rebecca Worthington, Andrea Yoder, Lisa Bryant and Penny Deragowski.

Arrangements were under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Carrie J. Babb Cancer Center in memory of Pat Amick.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Frances Aileen Russell Gibson

Frances Aileen Russell Gibson, 87, El Dorado Springs, passed away Oct. 2, 2010, following a brief illness. She was born Nov. 3, 1933, near Nevada to Robert Rodney Russell and Adrian Janette Lowe Russell.

She married Everett James Gibson in June of 1948. They lived in Vernon County where she worked at the Shoe Factory prior to moving to the Kansas City area where she was a homemaker and began their family. She later worked as a seamstress making custom draperies.

Frances was a member of the Community of Christ Church in Nevada where she was ordained to the office of priest on Oct. 25, 1998, by Elders Tom Pyle and LaVerne Cook. She blessed the congregation in Nevada with her music by singing and playing the piano. She was always willing to do anything that was asked of her with a smile on her face. She and her husband were campground caretakers for the church near Racine for a few years after retirement. They were very good cooks and hard workers. She was willing to help with all of the dinners at the Nevada church when public dinners were served.

Frances was loved by everyone who knew her. She was blessed by having a niece of Everett’s, Sue Ford, and her husband, Elbert, who took her into their home. She became a vital part of their family. Not only did she help with quilting, embroidering, crocheting and any handwork that needed doing while she could sit in her chair. She was a consultant on current projects. The care she received was a blessing for her and all who visited her in the Ford home and sent her cards. She will be sadly missed
by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her son, Rodney, in 1966, following an accident, and her husband, Everett, on Aug. 28, 1997, and a sister, Mary Etta.

Survivors include two sons, Robert Gibson, and his wife, Teresa - Fayetteville, AR, and Victor Gibson, and his wife, Kim – Kansas City, KS; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; one brother, Maurice Russell, and his wife, Norma – Canton, IL; cousins, LaVerne Cook, Stockton, Bill Edsall – Canton, IL; and his sisters, Audrey and Margaret – Ipava, IL; Arthur Season – Norwell, MA, Bill Hulse and others.

Graveside services were held Monday, Oct. 4, in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, east of Dederick, with Bill Garwood officiating under the direction of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

Donations may be made in her memory to the Nevada Community of Christ Church in care of Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washington, Nevada MO 64772.