Ethel M. Gordon

Ethel M. Gordon, 89, El Dorado Springs, was born on March 4, 1914, in Polk County the daughter of Erick and Anne Hite Stewart and passed away on Wednesday evening, Dec. 24, 2003, in the Community Springs Care Center, El Dorado Springs.

She was united in marriage to William E. Gordon on Dec. 24, 1954. Mr. Gordon preceded her in death on Sept. 27, 1989.
Before moving to El Dorado Springs, the Gordons resided in Nevada.

Mrs. Gordon was a wonderful homemaker and loved to go fishing.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Betty Simmons.

Survivors include four children - Bob Austin - Buffalo, Joann Knapp - Butler, Sharon Skelton - Peculiar and Roy Austin -
Independence; 16 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and 19 great-great-grandchildren.

Graveside services were held Saturday afternoon, Dec. 27, in the Clintonville Cemetery under direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home.

Elmer Crockett Evans

Elmer Crockett Evans, 89, the son of Alexander Lou Vance and Oma Maggie Lena (White) Evans, was born Nov. 22, 1914, in Harrison, AR, and passed from this life on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2003, at Community Springs Nursing Home in El Dorado Springs.
Elmer attended school in the Harrison area then worked as a truck driver for a construction company before entering the United States Army in April 1942. During his military career, Elmer served in the China, Burma and India theater of operations and was awarded two Bronze Stars and the Good Conduct medal.

After his discharge in 1946, Elmer moved to the Independence area then began working for General Motors. On March 8, 1958, Elmer was united in marriage to Mirtie Norene Sanders in Independence. They made their home in the Kansas City area until moving to El Dorado Springs in the late 1980s.

Elmer was a member of the Park Street Christian Church.

Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, two sisters and his wife, Mirtie, who passed away Aug. 30, 2003.
Survivors include one daughter, Lucille Hoagland, and her husband-Johnnie - Schell City; one grandson, John Mitchell Hoagland, and his wife-Jeanne - Schell City; two granddaughters, Mary Kathleen Ambrose, and her husband-Greg - Lee's Summit, and Julie Ann Wilson and her husband-Kurt - Nevada; six great grandchildren - Jesse Lee Beaty, Jenna LeAnn Beaty, Spencer Blaine Hoagland, Drue Cawood Hoagland, Grant Douglas Wilson and Blair Elizabeth Wilson; nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends.

Services were held Tuesday, Dec. 23, at the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City with Bro. Howard McPeak officiating. Music was provided by Julie Wilson.

Pallbearers were John M. Hoagland, Drue Hoagland, Kurt Wilson, Grant Wilson, Greg Ambrose and Jesse Beaty. Interment was in the Green Lawn Cemetery, Schell City, under direction of the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the youth group at either the Schell City Christian Church or the Park Street Christian Church in care of the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home.

Veronica Lucille 'Bonnie' Bender

Veronica Lucille "Bonnie" Bender, 87, El Dorado Springs, was born on Oct. 30, 1916, on a farm near Emmett, KS, to Phillip Joyce and Lettie (Cooper) Joyce. She passed away Dec. 20, 2003, at Cedar County Memorial Hospital after a short illness.

Bonnie attended business school in Manhatten, KS, where she met her future husband, Henry A. Bender. They were married on Aug. 30, 1941, and shared 62 years together. Until his retirement, she served as office manager and bookkeeper for his veterinary practice.

Bonnie was a loving mother and grandmother and a constant source of strength and inspiration to her family. She loved to play bridge, bowl, dance, travel and was especially proud of her Irish heritage.

She was a devout Catholic and her faith was a constant source of comfort to her. Bonnie was always ready to help her church, community, friends and those in need. She and her husband established the Bender Family Trust to support local community projects and services. Bonnie was a member of St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church, El Dorado Springs.

She was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers and four sisters.

Survivors include her husband, Dr. Henry A. Bender - of the home; children - Judith Ann Alexiou and husband-Arthur - Jefferson City; Susan Kay Eaton and husband-Lowell - Harrisburg; Robert (Butch) Harrison Bender and wife-Kathy - Gladstone; Thomas Vincent Bender and wife-Deana - Westwood Hills, KS; 10 grandchildren; one great-grand¬child; and 10 nieces and nephews.

Family Mass was held at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, at St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church, El Dorado Springs. Burial was in the El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under direction of the Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

The family request contributions to El Dorado Springs Community Foundation, Bender Family Trust or St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church Building Fund in care of the Sheldon Funeral Home.

Katherine L. Gorder

Katherine L. Gorder, 53, the daughter of Varn and Connie Pearl (Stanton) Cauley, was born March 2, 1950, in Clermont, FL, and passed from this life on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2003, at her home in Schell City.

Survivors include her companion, Charles Carter - of the home in Schell City; two sons, John Perryman and Roy Perryman; one daughter, Sedina Lippoldt; her sister, Maxine; and nine grandchildren.

Memorial services were held Friday, Dec. 19, at the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City. Cremation was under the direction of the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home.

Carmelita Bush

Carmelita Bush, 74, El Dorado Springs, was born Dec. 17, 1928, in Mission, KS, the daughter of Virgil and Cliffie Mason and passed away at 4:25 a.m. Tuesday morning, Dec. 9, 2003, at St. John's Regional Health Care Center, Springfield. Carmelita was a loving mother who will be sadly missed by her family and friends.

Carmelita was a member of the Virgil City Baptist Church. Her favorite hobbies were drawing, making quilts for her family, writing poetry and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a great cook.

She was the kind of person who would always brighten your day even if your were feeling down. She was always there for everybody and always willing to forgive and forget. Everyone who knew Carmelita knew her as a very loving, caring and generous person.

Her faith was of utmost importance to her and her walk with God very strong. She was a good Christian person that would help anyone she could.

Survivors include her children - Len Ruth, Shawn Ruth, Clifford Ruth, Cindy Bird and Gladys Cassidy; five stepchildren; 14 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Services were held Saturday, Dec. 13, in the Hackleman Chapel with David Studer officiating. Musical selections were provided by Brenda Hill, Janet Cheek and Joanne Alexander. Interment was in the Virgil City Cemetery under direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Shawn Ruth, Clifford Ruth, Steve Bird, Brandy Bird, Ryan Cassidy and Tom Gough.

Duane Robert Gayman

Duane Robert Gayman, 64, was born Aug. 6, 1939, in Denver, CO, to the union of Leo Gayman and Lucy Elinor (Cruse) Gayman Ijams.

Early in his childhood Duane, along with his family, moved to the Schell City area where he attended both elementary and high school, graduating in 1957. Before graduation, Duane began working outside of the home, first for the Hedrick family then later for Leland and Vera Arnold. Shortly after starting to work for the Arnold's, Duane moved into their home where they considered him their son, and he looked upon them as his family.

After graduation, he moved to Kansas City and began employment with Hallmark Cards. It was while living in Kansas City that Duane met Shirley Faye Gilliland. They were married Nov. 14, 1959, in Schell City. Two sons and one daughter were born to their union.

Duane and Shirley made their home in the Kansas City area until the late 1960s when they moved to Schell City, where Duane farmed, worked construction and in the mid-1970s went into full time ministry with the Church of Christ in Schell City. In 2000 a dream of Duane's came true when he founded Living Hope Fellowship in Nevada. It had been his intention when entering the ministry to outreach to as many souls as possible thus was his decision to found Living Hope Fellowship. In what spare time Duane had, he enjoyed horses and most of all, his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley - of the home in Schell City; two sons, Michael Duane Gayman, and his wife-Rona - Joplin, and Steven Robert Gayman, and his wife-Errica - Nevada; one daughter, Lisa Shirlane Bowline, and her hus¬band-Rudy - Tulsa, OK; his mother, Lucy Ijams - Schell City; his very "special" mother, Vera Arnold - also of Schell City; four brothers - Dan Gayman, Dale Gayman and Dean Gayman - all of Schell City, and David Gayman - Butler; five sisters - Eva McDaniel, Marla Applegate, Janet Ijams and Sherrie Ijams - all of Schell City, and Barbara Gayman - Nevada; seven grandchildren - Austin Carter, Cole Gayman, Landon Bowline, Lindsey Bowline, Logan Bowline, Austin Gayman and Tyler Gayman; several nieces, nephews and cousins; other relatives and many, many friends.

Services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Living Hope Fellowship, Nevada, with Pastor Marty Compton and Pastor Mark Harwell officiating. Musical selections were provided by the Fellowship Singers. Pallbearers were Terry Smith, Ed Morlan, Ron Spellman, Jerry Stark, Ralph Shoemaker and Don Henson. Honorary pallbearers were Gary Hammack, James Gilliland, David Maus, Mike Eador, Warren Klinetobe, Wayne Yakel and Orval Moore. Interment was in the Green Lawn Cemetery, Schell City, under direction of Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City. Memorials are suggested to Restoration House in care of Living Hope Fellowship, 704 E. Hickory, Nevada, MO.

Josephine Ida Fassel

Josephine Ida Fassel, 80, daughter of Arthur Garfield and Bessie Olivia (Parsons) Smith, was born June 13, 1923, in Lincoln, RI, and passed from this life on Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, in the Barone Alzheimers Care Center, Nevada.

Josephine attended school in Cranston, RI. She worked outside of the home in housekeeping and childcare.

Josephine met Albert Earl Fassel during a swimming party. They later married on Aug. 20, 1941, in the home of Pastor Herbert Johnson. Five children were born to their union. The couple moved west of Schell City in February 1942. A year later, Josephine moved back to Rhode Island to be near family while Albert was in the military.

After his military discharge, the family moved back to Missouri settling near Haley's Bluff where they lived in a tent until adequate housing became available. In 1950 Josephine began employment with the Nevada Habilitation Center. She also worked for Key Work Clothes, Nelly Don, the Tent Factory and Witt Printing.

In 1960 the family moved to Walker. After their retirement in 1976, they spent the winters in Texas until 1987 when they decided to stay there year round. They came back to Missouri in 1998 to be near family.

Josephine was a member of the Church of Christ in Schell City. She was a member of the Rebekah's Lodge in both Walker and Texas and the Lady of the Moose in Texas.

In August 2001, she and Albert celebrated their 60th wed¬ding anniversary.

Josephine was preceded in death by her parents; one brother; one sister; and infant daughter, Florence Olivia.

Survivors include her husband, Albert - of the home in Schell City; three daughters - Sharon Rose Mitchell and Alida Josephine Taylor - both of Walker, and Kathleen Alberta Robertson - Vancouver, WA; one son, Earl Joseph Fassel - Walker; one brother, Edward A. Smith - Andrews, SC; three sisters - Evelyn Sampson - Cranston, RI, Betty Constantineau - Providence, RI, and Rhodie Johnson - Porterville, CA; 14 grandchildren - Kelli Jones, Melody Bethards, Mark Mitchell, Leroy Taylor, Daren Taylor, Gary Taylor, Sherry Bigler, Kristy Meekins, Jeremy Watts, Angie Fassel, Rob Fas¬sel, Sam Robertson, Joshua Robertson and Rosanna Robertson; 21 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends.

Services were held Thursday, Dec. 4, in the Schell City Christian Church with Pastors Tim Brewer and Marvin Jamison officiating. Musical selections were provided by Sharon Goodman and the Souza family. Pallbearers were Mark Mitchell, Leroy Taylor, Daren Taylor, Gary Taylor, Gerald Jones and Rob Fassel. Honorary pallbearers were Jeremy Watts and Kelly Bethards. Interment was in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery near Walker under direction of the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Barone Care Center in care of the funeral home.

Sam J. Austin

Sam J. Austin, 75, found his eternal rest at 7:20 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, 2003. After a short illness, he passed away in his home with his family close by his side.

Sam was born March 13, 1928, the son of Charles and Eula Austin. He was raised, and later lived, on the family farm in Cedar County near Caplinger Mills. There he lived with his family, farming and raising cattle until his retirement in 1997 when he and his wife moved to Stockton.

On March 16, 1947, he was married to Beverly June Garrett. To this union, two children were born, Angela Patricia and Paula Kim. He had five grandchildren - Cholly, Courtney, Christian, Sell and Samuel Ghandehari and several great-grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Beverly; his daughters and their families - Angela Vaughan - California, MO, and Paula Austin - Moscow, OH; and a niece, Carolyn Daughtery - Moscow, OH.

Sam was a member of the Stockton Christian Church and lived his entire life in Cedar County. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially with grandson, Samuel.

He will be greatly missed by his family, where he was a major influence in their lives. Sam will remain in the hearts of his beloved family forever.

Services were held Saturday, Nov. 22, at Stockton Christian Church, with burial in the Hackleman Cemetery near Caplinger Mills.

Lorene (Williams) Elliott

Lorene (Williams) Elliott, 76, the third of 10 children born to Eula and Addie (Mallicoat) Williams on May 14, 1927, near Roscoe, departed this life for her heavenly home on Nov. 15, 2003, at Sac-Osage Hospital, Osceola.

Lorene attended elementary school at West Motley and graduated from Roscoe High School in 1945.

She married Carl Roberts on March 20, 1947. To this union, two daughters were born, Linda and Kimberly. She helped Carl in the garage in Roscoe and was a teacher's aide at Roscoe for several years. Carl died on May 20, 1968.

Lorene was saved and baptized on Feb. 22, 1954. She was a very faithful Christian and was always willing to help a family member or friend. She loved going to Sunday School and church.

On Sept. 11, 1971, she married Roy Elliott. They lived on a farm south of Osceola where she loved gardening, canning and working at anything that needed to be done. Proverbs 31:10-30 is very fitting for a woman such as Lorene.

Lorene entered the Truman Lake Manor in May 2000. All the workers loved her. They were very good to her. She always had kind words about all the caregivers.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl; her dad and mom; two brothers, Junior and Everett; and infant twin sisters.

She leaves to mourn her passing her husband, Roy, who was so faithful to visit her ev¬eryday during the 3 1/2 years she was at Truman Lake Manor; two daughters, Linda Basore, and husband-Denny - Appleton City, and Kim Short and husband, Archie; one step-son, Garrett Elliott, and wife-DeAnn - Osceola; four grandchildren who knew her as Nana - Mende and Melissa Short and Travis and Tyson Basore; three step-grandchildren - Travis, Nikki and Kyle Elliott; two brothers, Gene and Lorene - Gladstone, and Kenneth and Lorraine - Lee's Summit; three sisters - Malene Ingalls - Seat¬tle, WA, Betty and Bill Roberts - Springfield, and Jewel Dene and Junior Nitsche - Roscoe; sisters-in-law - Neva, Junie, Dorothy, Carol and Helen; 15 nieces and nephews; many cousins and a host of friends.

Lorene always enjoyed family get-togethers so much. Her death leaves an empty spot in all our lives that can never be filled. Her loving memory will live on in our hearts and minds to be cherished as a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sis¬ter and friend. Our loss is certainly God's gain.

Services were Saturday, Nov. 22, at Roscoe Christian Church with Rev. John Pommert officiating. Interment was in Roscoe Cemetery under direction of Sheldon-Goodrich Funeral Home, Osceola.

George L. Gane

George L. Gane, 88, El Dorado Springs, passed away Nov. 8, 2003, at Community Springs Care Center, El Dorado Springs.

A retired mail carrier, George is survived by one son, Len Gane - El Dorado Springs.

Services were held Monday, Nov. 10, at the Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs with Len Gane officiating. Casketbearers were Len Gane, Mark Gane, Ezra Gane, Luke Gane, Joshua Gane and Elon Gane. Burial was in the Love Cemetery near El Dorado Springs under direction of the Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Lois Mabel Evans, 97, was born in Tiffin on Sept. 24, 1906, the daughter of Charles Henry Brackenridge and Mary Brown. She was a direct descendant of some of the area's earliest pioneers and was the seventh generation to reside in the area. She went to be with the Lord on Nov. 3, 2003, in El Dorado Springs.

Lois was married to Washington Ward Evans on March 12, 1927. One daughter, Marceline Evans Abbott, was born to the couple.
Lois' family was her pride and joy, as well as her mainstay. They remember her quiet spirit and her remarkable ability to make the best of any situation without grumbling or complaining. She was a powerful example of humility and delighted in doing for her family without expecting anything in return. She enjoyed a close relationship with her Lord and attended Pape Christian Church throughout her adult life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her two brothers, John C. Brackenridge, and his wife-Zula Reed Brackenridge, and James Halley Brackenridge; and her husband, Washington Ward Evans.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Marceline and Elmer Abbott - rural Schell City; her grandson, Connie Abbott - rural El Dorado Springs; and her granddaughters, Marcia Abbott and Susan Abbott - rural Schell City; sister-in-law, Velda Faye King; two nieces, Denzial Brackenridge Ryan and Kay Brackenridge Phillips; and two nephews, James Brackenridge and Jerry Brackenridge.

Services were held Thursday afternoon, Nov. 6, in the Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Howard McPeak officiating. Musical selections were provided by Faith Trussell. Interment was in the El Dorado Springs Cemetery under direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Elmer Abbott, Connie Abbott, George Ray Francis, Lynn Francis, Wendell Burchett, Donnie Burchett, Jason Burchett and Brian Johannigmeir

Nina Juanita Black

Nina Juanita Black, 89, passed away on Friday morning, Oct. 31, 2003, in the Appleton City Manor in Appleton City. She was born on Jan. 14, 1914, in Perry, IA, the daughter of Charles and Kathryn Becker Black.

She graduated from Perry High School in 1933. She was a bookkeeper for the Chrysler Corporation for a number of years.

In 1980, Nina moved to El Dorado Springs from Boulder, CO. She made her home in El Dorado Springs until she moved to the nursing home.

Graveside services will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at the Violet Hill Cemetery in Perry, IA, under the direction of Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home.

charlotte Nadene O. Askew

Charlotte Nadene O. Askew, 81, El Dorado Springs, passed away on Friday, Oct. 31, 2003, in the Community Springs Nursing Home. Nadene was the last surviving child of Reece and Cornillia Rogers. She was born on July 17, 1922, in Jefferson County,
IN.

While attending Gravette Bible School, Gravette, AR, she met and later married Lorin Leroy Askew on April 23, 1939. After getting married, Lorin and Nadene moved to Ava where Lorin taught a semester at Mt. Zion Bible School. They later moved to Crothersville, IN, where Joann was born. The family moved to Phoenix, AZ, for a time, returned to Indiana and then set¬tled in Kansas City, where Joann enrolled in Kansas City College and Bible School. After Lorin's retirement in 1977, Lorin and Nadene moved to El Dorado Springs.

Nadene's first love was being a housewife and mother but she held jobs at a number of businesses including a shoe factory in Indiana, the Nazarene Publishing House, People's Bank and the Jones Store in Kansas City as well as filling the role of church secretary at the El Dorado Springs Church of God (Holiness).

To her family, Nadene was known for her talented sewing, wonderful cooking and ornery smile. As a hostess, she was quiet and often in the background, making sure all was in order and ensuring everyone was well fed. Her lists were legendary and her ability to organize was exceptional - a trait that seems to have been passed down to the rest of her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents and three sisters - Mildred, and twin sisters, Freeda and Faye Rogers.

Survivors include her husband, Lorin - El Dorado Springs; daughter, Joann Skaggs, and her husband-Jesse - Olathe, KS; grandson, David Skaggs, and his wife-Lance, and their three children - Jessica, Justin and Jared, who she loved very much.
Nadene was a wonderful wife, sister, mother, grand¬mother, great-grandmother and friend - in her quiet way she touched many lives. She will be greatly missed.

Services were held on Monday morning, Nov. 3, at the Church of God (Holiness) with Revs. Leland Trussell, Omar Lee and Joe Trussell officiating. Musical selections were provided by Lance Skaggs, Gary Conley, Trisha Conley, Debbie Goodwin and Faith Trussell. Interment was in the Johnson County Memorial Gardens Cemetery under the direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Wayne Downer, Brent Bland, Kirk Bland, Randy Bland, Barry Witt and Brad Witt.

Leta Dell Cox

Leta Dell Cox, 98, Ex¬celsior Springs, passed away Friday, Oct. 17, 2003, in the Valley Manor Rehabilitation and Care Center in Excelsior Springs.

Leta was born in Vernon County on Sept. 22, 1905, to Charlie and Nora (Hardin) Fergus. On July 12, 1929, she married Henry B. Cox. To¬gether they made their home on a farm east of Lawson. Follow¬ing his sudden death in 1979, she moved to the Grove Mobile Park in San Juan, TX, and lived there for a number of years be¬fore moving to Excelsior Springs in 1995.

She was a member of the Community of Christ Church in Independence and a member of the Order of Eastern Star in Excelsior Springs.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Henry B. Cox; a daughter, Wanda Fay; her brothers, Joseph Fergus and Omer Fergus; a sister, Thelma F. Williams; and nephew, Ernest Williams.

Survivors include two nephews, Charlie Williams - Fredericksburg, TX, and Eldon Williams - Independence; seven great-nieces and nephews; six great-great-nieces and nephews; and three great-great-great-nieces and nephews.

Memorial graveside services will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Crown Hill Cemetery, Excelsior Springs. Memorials are suggested to the Odyssey Hospice or to Valley Manor Rehabilitation and Care Center.

Arrangements and cremation by Prichard Funeral Home, 217 W. Broadway, Excelsior Springs, MO; phone 816/630-3131.

Rena Lora Neely Cubbage

Rena Lora Neely Cubbage, 84, Nevada, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2003, at Community Springs Health Care, El Dorado Springs, following a lengthy illness. She was born Nov. 7, 1918, in Pleasant View to Reuben Neely and Vernie McMillian Neely.

She married Emery N. Cubbage on June 28, 1942, in Nevada. He preceded her in death on Feb. 18, 1996.

Mrs. Cubbage attended Blue Mound School. She graduated from Harwood High School in 1937. She lived on the farm east of Nevada all her married life. She was a member of the Walker Christian Church.

Other than her husband, Emery, she was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters - Grace Neely, Nora Phillips and Margaret Cubbage, and one brother, Elmer Neely.

Survivors include one son, Robert Cubbage, and his wife-Barbara, and one grandson, Steve Cubbage, and his wife-Martha - all of Nevada; one granddaughter, Christy Cubbage - Shawnee, KS; three great-grandchildren - Lauren, Broc and Alexa; one sister, Joan Markham - El Dorado Springs; one brother, Reuben Neely - Walker; and several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services were held Friday, Oct. 10, at Newton Burial Park with Dr. William Cox officiating under direction of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada. Memorials may be given to the Alzheimer's Association in care of Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washington, Nevada, MO 64772.

George E. Dunfield

George E. Dunfield, 62, El Dorado Springs, passed away on Thursday evening, Oct. 2, 2003, in the Cedar County Memorial Hospital. George was born in Nevada and resided in El Dorado Springs for the past 30 years.

He graduated from the Nevada High School and enlisted in the Navy. He served his country for four years. Ge¬orge married Ann Murphy of El Dorado Springs. Three children came from their marriage of 36 years.

George worked 18 years at 3M. He was a member of the Liberty Baptist Church.

George was preceded in death by his parents, William and Opal Dunfield; brothers, Ernest Dunfield and Jr. Dunfield; and daughters, Cheryl Donner and Vicki Dunfield.

Survivors include his loving wife-Ann - El Dorado Springs; his son, Tommy Dunfield, and his wife-Deanna - New Bern, NC; his sisters and their families - Irene Christian - Olathe, KS, Mary Stewart - LaCyene, KS, Joann and Wayne Wyrick - Reed Springs, Linda and David Ayers - Mound City, KS, and Sue Sandoval - California; his brothers and their families - Jurden Dunfield - Metz, Joe and Lola Dunfield - El Dorado Springs, James Dunfield - El Dorado Springs, Bob and Dorothy Dunfield - California, and Lloyd and Sandy Dunfield - Nevada; his son-in-law, Dan Donner - El Dorado Springs; his grandchildren - Wayland Donner - El Dorado Springs, Zachary and Trevor Dunfield - Lamar, and Alyssa Dunfield - New Bern, NC; and a host of other family and friends that knew George and loved him.

Services were held Monday, Oct. 6, at the Hackleman Chapel with Bro. Keith Irvin officiating. Musical selections were provided by Brenda Hill and Janet Cheek. Interment was in the Virgil City Cemetery under direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Terry Jo Dunfield, James Allen, Robert Aumann, Dan Donner, David Loane and Shawn Loane.

Claudine Earnestine Finter

Claudine Earnestine Finter, 70, San Antonio, TX, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2003, at her residence at Broadway Lodge Convalescent Center, San Antonio, TX.

Claudine was born Sept. 28, 1933, near El Dorado Springs, to Milburn and Daisy Whitesell. She lived in the El Dorado Springs area for several years as well as Springfield and McCook, NE. She operated the Tip Top Beauty Shop in Caplinger Mills.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Milburn and Daisy Whitesell, a brother, Raymond Lee and sister, Shirley Black.
She is survived by her sons, William Brian Finter, and his wife-Lisa, and their children, Ashley and Natalie, and Christopher Finter and his wife-Cindy and their children, John, Timothy and Rebecca; her daughter, Denise Perryman, and her husband-Ray and their children, Sven, Sergio and Storm; and her brothers, Milton Whitesell and Milford Whitesell.

Graveside services were held at the El Dorado Springs City Cemetery on Saturday, Oct. 4, with Rev. Tom Willoughby officiating. Music was "Mansion Over The Hilltop." Services were under direction of the Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Nicole Danielle "Nicki" Culbertson

Nicole Danielle "Nicki" Culbertson, 16, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2003, at her home in Nevada. She was born June 4, 1987, in Nevada to Ricky Lee Culbertson and Mary Laura Watkins Culbertson.

Nicki lived her entire life in Nevada. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and attended Cedar Ridge School.

Survivors include her parents, Rick and Mary Culbertson - Nevada; two sisters, Erin Culbertson - Uganda, and Jessi Culbertson - St. Louis; grandparents, Mary Ann Watkins - St. Louis, and Cliff and Bonnie McDaniel - Nevada; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Services were held Sunday, Sept. 28, at the First Baptist Church, Nevada, with Dr. William Cox officiating. Interment followed in Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Walker.

Memorials may be given to Cedar Ridge Playground Fund or Children's Miracle Network, Joplin, in care of Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washington, Nevada, MO 64772.

F. Joan Blackwell

F. Joan Blackwell, 67, Paso Robles, formally of Hawthorne, died on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2003.

Joan is survived by her husband of 49 years, Billy Black¬well; her son, Douglas Blackwell; her daughter, Cheryl Cutler; her sister, Rena Barr - Missouri; and her grandchildren, Teri Larkin - Colorado, and Christina Blackwell, Christopher Blackwell and Kenny Cut¬ter - all of Paso Robles.
A cryptside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at Inglewood Park Cemetery under direction of Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home, Paso Robles.

F. Joan Blackwell

F. Joan Blackwell, 67, Paso Robles, formally of Hawthorne, died on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2003.

Joan is survived by her husband of 49 years, Billy Blackwell; her son, Douglas Blackwell; her daughter, Cheryl Cutler; her sister, Rena Barr - Missouri; and her grandchildren, Teri Larkin - Colorado, and Christina Blackwell, Christopher Blackwell and Kenny Cutter - all of Paso Robles.

A cryptside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at Inglewood Park Cemetery under direction of Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home, Paso Robles.

Irvin Elton Bathrope

Irvin Elton Balthrope, 30, Waco, TX, was born June 26, 1973, in El Dorado Springs, and passed away due to an auto accident on Sunday, Sept. 21, 2003.

Irvin was a tower communi¬cations technician.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Danny Balthrope, who passed away in an auto accident in 1989.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Balthrope - Waco, TX; his son, Zachary Balthrope, age eight - Lawrence, KS; his parents, Connie Coleman - Marshfield, and Monty Balthrope - Schell City; three sisters - Rochelle K. Brown (Balthrope - Fordland, Joey D. Kelly - Marshfield, and Francis Balthrope - Rich Hill; four brothers - Jesse Balthrope - Marshfield, Isaac Balthrope - El Dorado Springs, Shiloh Balthrope - Ellsinore, and Marcus Balthrope - Rich Hill; grandparents, Marvin and Loetta Balthrope - El Dorado Springs, and Edward and Helen Kelly - Pecos, TX; many nieces; nephews, aunts, uncles; cousins; and numerous friends.

A memorial service was held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, at the Comfort Inn on I 44 and North Glenstone, Springfield, with Bro. Terry Gooch officiating. Graveside services and burial will be in Memorial Park at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, in Waco, TX.

Cards or memorials may be sent to Irvin's mother, Connie Coleman, 12689 State Hwy. KK, Marshfield, MO 65706.

Edna Mae Christie

Edna Mae Christie, 74, was born Feb. 27, 1929, in Kansas City to William M. and Lottie E. Stinson Bush. She passed away Sept. 6, 2003, at her home in El Dorado Springs.

Edna was raised in the greater Kansas City area.

On April 15, 1948, she was united in marriage to Arthur E. Christie in Kansas City, KS. This union was blessed with a daughter and two sons.

Arthur and Edna spent their early married life in the Kansas City area where she worked for 25 years as a beautician. In later years Edna became well known as a real estate broker.

In Sept. of 1973, she and Arthur moved to El Dorado Springs, where they were mak¬ing their home at the time of her death.
God has long been a major factor in Edna's life. She joined the Rainbow Church of the Nazarene in Kansas City, KS, at an early age. Later she and Arthur started the Highland Crest Church of the Nazarene in a small house and Edna's Sunday School class was taught in the bathroom. After their move, she was a faithful and longtime member of the El Dorado Springs Church of the Nazarene.

Edna enjoyed over 35 years of teaching Sunday School. She taught a range of classes including primary, young marrrieds and adults. Edna's life's passion was building the Kingdom of God and being obedient to her Lord regardless of what other people thought. She was an excellent cook and especially loved to cook for large numbers of people. She was preceded in death by a brother, Billy Junior Bush, and a sister, Mrs. Evelyn Bates.

She is survived by her hus¬band of 55 years, Arthur, of the home; one daughter, Mrs. Deb¬orah Barlow - El Dorado Springs; two sons, Billy - Olathe, KS, and Bob - El Dorado Springs; seven grandchil¬dren - Angela Barlow, Amy Hampton and Drew, Chase, Camille, Hollie and Justin Christie; other relatives and many friends whose lives she strongly touched.

Services were held Tuesday, Sept. 9, in the El Dorado Springs Church of the Nazarene with Revs. Wendell Daniel and Danny Bohi officiating. Music was "In The Garden" and "My Wonderful Lord" sung by Larry Worthington accompanied by Barry Witt.

Casketbearers were Bob Christie, Bill Christie, Robert Barlow, Bobby Barlow, Ronnie Hampton, Ben Wor¬thington and Drew Christie. In¬terment was in Love Cemetery, El Dorado Springs, under direc¬tion of Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Yettive Mearle Fox Antrim

Yettive Mearle Fox Antrim, 82, Schell City, passed away on Saturday morning, Sept. 6, 2003, in the home of her son in Joplin. She was born on Dec. 4, 1920, in Almyra, AR.

On July 31, 1945, she was united in marriage to J.D. Antrim, Schell City, who pre¬ceded her in death on April 9, 2002. They were lifelong resi¬dents of the Schell City area.

Survivors include one son, Jay Douglas Antrim, and his wife-Diane - Joplin; four grand¬children - Jeremy Walsh - Ellsworth Air Force Base, SD, Jason and Jennifer Antrim - Springfield, and Crystal Antrim - El Dorado Springs; seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Services will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, in the Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Tom Willoughby officiating. Interment will be in the Green¬lawn Cemetery, Schell City, under direction of the Hackle¬man and Sons Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

The family received friends at the funeral home from 7 - 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10.

Floy Minta Barrow

Mrs. Floy Minta Barrow, 99, El Dorado Springs, passed away Monday, Sept. 1, 2003, at Community Springs Healthcare Center, El Dorado Springs.

Mrs. Barrow was a longtime El Dorado Springs resident. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in El Dorado Springs.
Survivors include four grandchildren.

Services will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, in the First Baptist Church, El Dorado Springs. Burial will be in the Stockton Cemetery under direction of the Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs.

Family will receive friends from 7 - 8 p.m. Thursday at the Sheldon Funeral Home.

Mabel I. Whiteside Gill

Mabel I. Whiteside Gill, 96, Joplin, passed away at 1 a.m. Monday, Sept. 1, 2003, in St. John's Regional Medical Center after a short illness.

Born June 11, 1907, in Harwood, the daughter of the late Fred F. Whiteside and Harriett Locke Whiteside. She had lived in Joplin since 1941. She worked in the kitchen at the former Connor Hotel. She also worked for the former General Hospital (later Oak Hill Hospital) retiring as a dietician in 1972.

On July 4, 1925, she married Dewey J. Fox in El Dorado Springs. He preceded her in death on April 19, 1941.
She married Orris W. Gill on May 19, 1954, in Joplin. He preceded her in death on March 10, 1960. Two sisters, Lottie Groves and Jessie Way, also preceded her in death.

Survivors include three daughters - Mary Steckstor, Nellie Watson and Nadine Ellen Bennett - all of Joplin; two sons, Franklin D. Fox - El Dorado Springs, and Forrest W. Fox - Melrose, KS; 19 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; a niece, Betty Lou Maudlin - El Dorado Springs; and her dog, Babe.

Graveside services began at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery, Joplin, with Dr. Roger Nichols officiating. Grandsons served as pallbearers. The family received friends and family from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, at Parker Mortuary, Joplin.

Mirtie Norene Evans

Mirtie Norene Evans, 83, the daughter of Thomas Presley and Lena Pearl (Smith) Sanders, was born Nov. 12, 1919, in Watson, OK, and passed from this life on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2003, in the Community Springs Nursing Home, El Dorado Springs.

Mirtie attended school in Oklahoma and worked on the family farm while growing up. In the early 1950s she moved to the Kansas City area to look for work and to be near her brother, Richard, who was living and working in the area.

For many years she worked at Joe's Cafe at 38th and Wyandotte until her retirement. On March 8, 1958, she was united in marriage to Elmer Crocket Evans in Kansas City. In 1988 they relocated to El Dorado Springs to be near family.

Mirtie was a member of the Park Street Christian Church. Her hobbies included gardening, flowers and crocheting.
Mirtie was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers and two sisters.

Survivors include her husband, Elmer Crocket Evans - of the home in El Dorado Springs; one daughter, Lucille Hoagland, and
her husband-Johnny - Schell City; two sisters, Onie (Jackie) Moore - Gravette, AR, and Evelyn Fisher and her husband-George - Tonganoxie, KS; one grandson, John Mitchell Hoagland, and his wife-Jeanne - Schell City; two granddaughters, Mary Kathleen Ambrose and her husband-Greg - Lee's Summit, and Julie Ann Wilson and her husband-Kurt - Nevada; six great-grandchildren - Jesse Lee Beaty, Jenna LeAnn Beaty, Spencer Blaine Hoagland, Drue Cawood Hoagland, Grant Douglas Wilson and Blair Elizabeth Wilson; nieces; nephews and other relatives and friends.

Services were held Tuesday, Sept. 2, at the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City, with Bro. Howard McPeak officiating. Music was provided by Sharon Goodman and Diane Eslinger. Pallbearers were John M. Hoagland, Drue Hoagland, Kurt Wilson, Grant Wilson, Greg Ambrose and Jesse Beaty. Interment was in the Green Lawn Cemetery, Schell City under direction of the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home.

Memorials are suggested to the youth group at the Schell City Christian Church in care of the funeral home.

Veneta Faye Simpson Edwards

Veneta Faye Simpson Edwards, 68, was born on June 16, 1935, to Velma Josephine Simpson and Albert A. Simpson at home in a four bedroom house in El Dorado Springs. In 1943, Veneta, her brother and her parents moved to North Kansas City.

She was saved as a young girl and went to the Church of God (Holiness) for many years. Later in life, she enjoyed Robert Schuler and attended several different churches over the years. About five years ago, she found the First Baptist Church of Raytown. She was baptized after the new church was built. She loved this church and dreamed of all of her five children going with her there.

She joined the choir and loved the yearly Seeder Meal representing fruit, nuts and bread in Jesus' time. She went to Sunday School and church and other classes. Her faith really grew at this church. She made friends that made her very happy. Veneta loved the songs that were sung and the sermons.

Over the years, Veneta worked at various jobs. Most recently she worked at Price Chopper at 95th and Mission for about five years and developed many friends who were there for her during her surgery recovery.

She enjoyed vacations to Branson with her brother, his wife, her sister, her niece and her greatniece. She loved gardening and flowers and enjoyed Powell Gardens. Veneta would look at books for hours. She would buy all the plants and spend hours outside caring for her garden. She loved to cook and try out new dishes especially on holidays. She was a serious Chiefs fan and did not refrain from telling the TV what they were doing wrong.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Velma and Albert Simpson, and her sister, Fern. She was a loving and devoted mother.

She leaves behind five children - Constance Cheri Goodman, Patricia Lynn Riddell, Janice Faye Hill, William Ervil Dealy and Michelle Rene Edwards; eight grandchildren - Carl William Goodman, William Linn Dannahower, Roger Edgington, James Henry Riddell, David Dunlap, Chris Dunlap, Candace Dealy and Chase Wilson; one brother, Willis Simpson - Mission, KS; one sister, Leona Garriges - Independence; a host of nieces; nephews; cousins and two cats, Frankie and Johnny.

Services were held Monday, Aug. 25, at the First Baptist Church, Raytown. Interment was in the Hackleman Cemetery under direction of Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pall¬bearers were Carl William Goodman, Will Dannahower, James Henry Riddell, Michael T. Nolen, David Justin Dunlap, Christopher Lee Dunlap and Willis Dean Simpson. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Support Group at the First Baptist Church, Raytown.

Mildred A. Fox

Mildred A. Fox, 91, El Dorado Springs, passed away on Monday afternoon, July 28, 2003, in the Cedar County Memorial Hospital. She was born on March 15, 1912, the daughter of Thomas A. and Mabel Kauffman Shanks.

Mildred had lived most of her life in the Virgil City community and had resided at Community Springs Care Center for the last few years.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church, El Dorado Springs and the Eastern Star.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and her parents. Survivors include cousins.

Graveside services will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 31, in the Virgil City Cemetery with Pastor Jim Smith officiating. Interment will be in the Virgil City Cemetery under the direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home.

Rebecca Lynn Delk

Rebecca Lynn Delk, 54, El Dorado Springs, was born on April 14, 1949, the daughter of Frank and Ruth Kelly. She passed away on Friday, July 4, 2003, at St. John's Regional Health Care Center, Springfield.

On July 25, 1975, she was united in marriage to Don Delk.

Rebecca worked at Pyramid Life Insurance for many years. After her health declined, she traveled and spent time with family. She was a member of the Church of God (Holiness).

She was preceded in death by her father, Frank Kelly Jr., a sister, Karen Gardner; and grandson, Jacob Fishburn.

Survivors include her husband, Don, - of the home in El Dorado Springs; her mother, Ruth Kelly - Fort Meyers, FL; her sister, Michelle Traband - Lawrence, KS; her children - Mike Knoth - Olathe, KS, Tracy Ennis - El Dorado Springs, Rick Delk - El Dorado Springs, Randy Delk - Kansas City, Christy Ennis - El Dorado Springs, Jama Nordby - El Dorado Springs, Kelly Delk - El Dorado Springs, and Amanda Watkins - Lamar; 22 grandchildren; nieces; nephews and a host of friends.

Rebecca was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She will be missed by all.

Services were held Monday, July 7, in the Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Joe Trussell officiating. Musical selections were provided by Faith Trussell. Interment was in the Sinking Creek Cemetery in Everton, un¬der direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers were William Ennis, Paul Nordby, Trevor Watkins, Greg Meyer, Ricky Delk and Randall Gainey.

Patrick Michael Collins

Patrick Michael Collins, 43, Nevada, passed away on Thursday evening, July 24, 2003. He was born in Drayton, ND, the son of Bervin and Yevonne Hensrude Collins.

Pat graduated from the Kennedy High School in Kennedy, MN, in 1978 and from the University of North Dakota in 1983 with a degree in Civil Engineering.

Pat had been employed at 3M in Nevada since June 25, 1990. At the time of Pat's death, he was Plant Engineering General Supervisor. He was instrumental in coordinating many plant expansions and equipment installations at the Nevada plant.
On Jan. 17, 1997, Pat was united in marriage to Kimberly Fast.

Pat had a great love for hunting, fishing and anything outdoors. He enjoyed his annual hunting and fishing trips to Colorado, Alaska, Louisiana and Michigan. He was a very talented musician and had the ability to play any instrument he picked up.

Pat's favorite times were those spent with his children, T-ball with Mikey, swimming, taking the kids to Colorado to learn to ski, teaching each of them to use a bow and arrow, camping trips and just times at home.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bervin R. Collins.

Those who remain to keep alive his memories in their hearts are his wife, Kimberly - of the home; his children - Michael, Alexandria, Kissandria and Mirandia; his mother, Yevonne Collins - Grand Forks, ND; his sister, Brenda Renalls - Woodbury, MN; mother-in-law, Charlotte Dauben, and her hus¬band, Steve - Lamar; father-in-law, James Fast Sr. - Nevada; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; aunts; uncles; nieces; nephews; cousins; and a host of friends.

Services were held Monday, July 28, in the Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Renee Hack¬leman officiating. Honorary pallbearers were R.P. Newman Jr., Loren Eason, Jim Dennison, Carl Renalls, Don Crab¬tree, Norm Rogers, Al Richter, Robert Krish, Tony Fast, Deryl Fast, James Fast Jr., Randy Sewell, Jason Hensrud, Doug Halvorson, Mary Leis, Joe Talley, Ron Smith, Vern Lysford, Tim Lysford, Troy Lysford, Doug Lysford, Barry Langen, David Langen, Wayne Roen and all 3M co-workers.

Cremation was under direc¬tion of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. By his request, Pat's remains will be scattered in the Colorado mountains where he loved to hunt.

Dustin Lynn Chance

Dustin Lynn Chance, 27, Fort Scott, KS, died early Thursday, July 24, 2003, as the result of an automobile accident on U.S. 69 highway, south of Fort Scott.

He was born Nov. 8, 1975, in Fort Scott, KS, the son of Terry Chance and Gwen Judy Chance.

Dustin was a 1994 graduate of Fort Scott Christian Heights School and received his bachelor degree in secondary education from Pittsburg State University in 1999. He taught journalism for three years at El Dorado Springs High School. Currently he was employed by New Image Design in the construction business. Dustin was a member of Parkway Church of God (Holiness). He had many hobbies and talents including art and photography but he had particular interest in the restoration of vintage cars and trucks.

Survivors include is father and mother, Terry and Gwen Chance - Fort Scott, KS; one brother, Brent Chance and his wife, Angela - Independence, KS; maternal grandparents, Elmer and Lee Ella Judy - Fort Scott, KS; paternal grandmother, Virginia Chance - Fort Scott, KS; and two nephews, Alec and Nate Chance.

His grandfather, Auburn Chance, preceded him in death.

Rev. Mark Stetler conducted services Monday, July 21, in the Parkway Church of God (Holiness). Burial followed in Evergreen Cemetery under the direction of Cheney Witt Memorial Chapel.

Memorials are suggested to the Christian Heights School and may be sent to Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Fort Scott, KS 66701.

Charlie Neva Cross

Charlie Neva Cross, 90, Butler, passed away Wednesday, July 23, 2003, in Bates County Memorial Hospital, Butler. She was born February 13, 1913, to Joe A. and Gertie F. Pinkman Budd in Cedar County.

Charlie, one of three children, was raised in El Dorado Springs. She attended the Pleasant Ridge Grade School just southeast of town. On Feb. 23, 1935, she was united in marriage to Emmett Cross. To this union four children were born. Charlie was a homemaker most of her life, dedicating her life to her family and home. In 1946 she and her husband moved to Ballard and later moved to the farm on East Hwy. 52. In 1979 they moved to town in Butler. She attended the Cove Creek Christian Church, the Pleasant Gap Christian Church and the Ft. Scott Church of Christ in Butler.

Charlie was a strong but sweet Christian lady. She could be described as outgoing and independent. Her hobbies included sewing, quilting, gardening and canning. She was a wonderful caregiver to her husband, Emmett, during his illness. Charlie also enjoyed playing in the "Kitchen Band" at the local nursing homes. Her grandchil¬dren and great-grandchildren were an important part of her life and she was very proud of them.

Charlie was preceded in death by her husband, Emmett Cross; infant son, Charles Cross; daughter, Judy Easterling; brother, Granvil Budd; and sis¬ter, Pauline Houle.

She is survived by two daughters, Mary Joe Speck, and her husband, Frank - Raymore, and Janice Tatro and her hus¬band, Aubrey - Lake Lotawana; son-in-law, Robert "Rob" Easterling - Albuquerque, NM; sister-in-law, Ardis Budd - El Dorado Springs; five grandchildren - Debbie Howard, Daphne Tucker, Kevin McCubbins, Mike Easterling and Jeff Easterling; six great-grandchildren; and nephews and nieces.

Services were held Saturday, July 26, in Schowengerdt Fu¬neral Chapel, Butler with Bill Herndon officiating. Musical selections were "Amazing Grace" and "In The Garden." Casketbearers were Kevin McCubbins, Mike Easterling, Jeff Easterling, Jim Howard, Gene Brown and Bobby Budd. Interment was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler under direction of Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel.

Lyle Edward Bough

Lyle Edward Bough, 66, El Dorado Springs, passed away at his home on July 23, 2003. He was born on Dec. 24, 1936, in Porterville, CA, to Clyde and Mabel Rosenbaum Bough.

Lyle enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Germany from 1958-1961. He served as a tank driver. While there he toured nine countries.

Lyle was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He was a carpenter by trade and a shade tree mechanic.
He enjoyed visiting restoring his old car, fishing and going to the Wyoming mountains, where he and Nadine had a host of friends and neighbors.

He was saved as a young man and attended the Mission¬ary Baptist Church where his father was pastor.

Lyle was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Donald Lee; and his sister, Carol.

He is survived by his wife, Nadine - of the home; two sons, Edward Norman - Monett, and Todd Norman - Johnstown, NY; one granddaughter, Andrea Norman - Republic; brother, Kyle Bough, and his wife, Elaine - Longview, TX; two uncles, Elda Rosenbaum and his wife, Marge, and Fred Bough and his wife, Martha - all of Stockton; two aunts, Opal Rosenbaum - Stockton, and Rosa Lee Rosenbaum - Dadeville; two step-sons, Jerry Coleman - El Dorado Springs, and David Coleman - Belton; two sisters-in-law, Lois Smith and her husband, Sonny, and Norma Toliver and her husband, Wayne, and their families - all from El Dorado Springs; and many nieces; nephews; cousins; and friends.

Services were held Saturday, July 26, in the Hackleman Chapel with Bro. Derl Hicks officiating. Musical selections were provided by Faith Trussell. Interment was in the Gum Springs Cemetery under direc¬tion of Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were Jerry Coleman, David Coleman, Darren Toliver, JR Stroer, Jody Smith and Scotty Bough.

James Eldon "Jim" Elwell

James Eldon "Jim" Elwell, 70, Wichita, formerly of Augusta, KS, retired avionics design engineer for Raytheon and Cessna Aircraft companies, passed away Sunday, July 20, 2003.

Services were held Saturday, July 26, at Lakeview Funeral Home Chapel in Wichita, KS.

Jim served as past master of the Mystic Tie Lodge. He was a heart transplant survivor for 13 1/2 years. The family would like to acknowledge the John Steckstor family for their gift of life through organ donation.

Survivors include his wife, Iva Jean - Wichita, KS; daughters and sons-in-law, Drs. Janet and Kyle Fanning - Oklahoma City, OK, formerly of Augusta, KS, Joyce and Jim Green - Brandon, MS, and Judy and Terry Williams - Wichita, KS; sister and brother-in-law, Ellen and Keron Shank - Wichita, KS; granddaughter, Jessica Green - Brandon, MS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Elwell and Peggy Plagge; and brother, John Elwell.

A memorial has been established with Midwest Transplant Network, 1035 N. Emporia, Wichita, KS 67214.
Services were under the direction of Lakeview Funeral Home, Wichita, KS.

Michael Ray Brown

Michael Ray Brown, 53, was born March 20, 1950, in Nevada, to Ray and Dorothy Brown and passed away July 18, 2003, in his home in El Dorado Springs.

He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Brown - El Dorado Springs; two daughters, Lori Norbury and her husband, Shane, and Robin Brown; two sons, Beau Michael Brown and John Brown; two grandsons, Kaleob Shane Norbury and Kyle Lane Norbury; one sister, Glenna Ray, and her husband, Les; two brothers, Larry Brown and Ron Brown; and his wife, Nancy; three nieces - Melissa Nikodim and her husband, Dale, Heather Moeller and her husband, Brian, and Lindsey Brown; four nephews - Chris Ray, Randy Ray, Dean Brown and Brett Brown; two great-nieces, Kylie Ann Moeller and Tiffany Nicole Nikodim; three uncles - Gary Speight and his wife, Mary Ann, Daivd Brown and Gerald Brown and his wife, Ruth; two aunts, Marvalene Dennis and her husband, Roy, and Darlene Anderson; a special friend, Melissa; and his best friend, Kriston Costello.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ray Brown; grand¬parents, Georgia and Glen Brown and Russel and Mabel Speight; and an aunt, Doris Brown.

Services were held Monday, July 21, at Sheldon Funeral Home, with Rev. G. H. Sublett officiating. Musical selection was "I Can't Do Anything But Write." A poem written by his mother was read at the end of the service.

Pallbearers were Ray Brown, Joe Shearer, Jason Cunningham, Jimmy Widner, Gary Speight and Greg Cunningham. Honorary pallbearers were Shaun Margan, Ned DuCharme, Roger Dille and Vance Johnson. Burial was in El Dorado Springs City Cemetery under direction of Sheldon Funeral Home. Jim Tolivar, from the Fraternal Order of Eagles #4270, talked about Michael's work in the Eagles Club leading up to him being elected "Eagle of the Year" in 1999.

"One last shot" in honor of Michael was fired with his muzzle-loading gun by Kriston Costello with brothers, Larry and Ron, standing beside him.

Sarah Ellenmarie Eversole

Sarah Ellenmarie Eversole, 87, was born Nov. 17, 1915, in Oakhill, KS, and joined her family in heaven, July 11, 2003, surrounded by her family and friends at the Beautiful Sav¬ior Lutheran Home, Belton. She was a member of the Roscoe Christian Church, where she leaves many close and wonderful friends and memories.

Sarah leaves behind her husband of 50 years, Gordon Ever¬sole; three children - Darlene Straley, Judy Brotherton and husband, Jim, and William Eversole and wife, Ginny; two sis¬ters, Betty Osbourne and husband, Dean, and Myrtle Williams and husband, Bill; two brothers, Curt Rickley and wife, Mary, and Orval Rickley; six grandchildren - Kathryn Altis, Patricia Mitchell and husband, Jim, Jamie Straley, Nancy Roe and husband, Dan, Derek and Brad Eversole; five great-grandchildren - Joseph, Jason and Sarah DuPont, Jasper (Beau) and Shannon (Sissy) Mitchell; and many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank NorthCare Hospice, Becky and Katie, for all their loving care.

Graveside services were held Monday, July 14, at the Oyer Cemetery, Oyer, under direction of the E.K. George and Sons Funeral Home, Belton. Memorial contributions may be made to NorthCare Hospice, 3100 NE 83rd, North Kansas City, MO 64119.

Bonnie Gardner

Bonnie Gardner, Sheldon, passed away suddenly Wednesday, July 9, 2003, at her home in Sheldon.

She was born in Vernon County to George Finch and Goldie Allen Finch. She married Gene Gardner in Barton County.
Mrs. Gardner was raised in Vernon County and spent virtu¬ally her entire life there. She was a homemaker. Her mem¬berships include the Sheldon Christian Church and Order of Eastern Star, Sheldon.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Joe and Dean Graybeal; and three sisters - Gloria Rausher, Delores Rector and Gracie
Garber.

Survivors include her husband, Gene - of the home in Sheldon; two sons, George Gardner - Howard, KS, and Jim Gardner and his wife, Sheila - Branson; two daughters, Nahwana Maslen and her husband, Johnny - El Dorado Springs, and Karma Curtis and her friend, Jack Sportsman - Lamar; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grand¬children; and one sister, Alberta Borgardht - Carterville.

Graveside services were held Saturday, July 12, at Olive Branch Cemetery, Milo, with George Haag officiating.

Memorials may be given to the Olive Branch Cemetery As¬sociation in care of Ferry Funeral Home, 301 S. Washing¬ton, Nevada, MO 64772.

Orlena Allison

Orlena Allinson, 82, Inde¬pendence, passed away Monday morning, July 7, 2003, in Inde¬pendence Regional Health Care.

Orlena was born March 11, 1921, in Vernon County to Benjamin and Anna (Doryland) Hamby. Mrs. Allinson was an LPN and used those skills through her church working on mission projects.

Orlena was dedicated to liv¬ing a Christian life of servitude. She had a great love for her family.

She was preceded in death by her daughters, Sue Cook and Maggie Barger.

Survivors include her son, Hank Allinson - El Dorado Springs; six grandchildren - Rick Bourland, Brenda Smithers, Angie Story, Travis Cook, Bobbi Quick and Toni McElwain; and 11 great-grand¬children.

No services were scheduled. Cremation was under direction of Speaks Suburban Chapel. Online condolences may be ex¬pressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com.

Freddie L. Allen

Our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Freddie L. Allen, 82, was born on April 11, 1921, to Jack and Daisy Allen in St. Louis. On July 7, 2003, Freddie moved to his eternal home to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

At the age of two, his parents moved the family to El Dorado Springs. He loved this town and the people who live here.

Freddie's favorite saying was "Any ole dead fish can float down stream but it takes a live one to go up." He exemplified this in his life through his hard work and great love for people. He lived during the Great Depression and survived this diffi¬cult time by working very hard at whatever he could find. As a teenager he joined the C.C. Camp and later enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served in World War II as a Chief Commissary Steward. After an honorable discharge, he was involved for many years with the San Diego Economy Bus Lines. In 1977, he and his wife of 57 years, Alvetta, returned to his favorite town, El Dorado Springs, to be the proprietor of a small motel and café. In 1982 he returned to San Diego to finish out the re¬mainder of his earthly years.

El Dorado Springs held a big place in his heart. He loved the people. He was one who never met a stranger.

He is dearly loved and will be sorely missed by all. One of his favorite Bible verses was Mark 8:36, "For what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul?"

He is survived by his loving wife; two daughters and their husbands; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be sent in his honor to the El Dorado Springs Christian School, 1600 S. Ohio, El Dorado Springs, MO 64744.

Jessie Lea Bell

Jessie Lea Bell, 16, passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2003, after a fatal car accident. She was born on March 24, 1987, in El Dorado Springs, the daughter of Danny and Gayle Bell.

Jessie always had to be the best at everything she did. She had big dreams; she wanted to go to college to become a dentist. She was already planning for her future but God had other plans. He had to take our angel home.

Jessie loved babies and animals. She had many friends. She was a very strong person with her own beliefs and you would not change her mind. Jessie always lifted everybody up in the family when they were down, giving you a good pep talk. Her saying was "God made you the way you are and you have to be happy with that."

Jessie went to Concord Missionary Baptist Church. She loved to sing "Amazing Grace" and other church songs. She was very strong about her church beliefs.

Jessie was a loyal friend and a good person. She never liked anyone talking bad about someone else.

Jessie told friends and family that she was not lost yet and she was afraid she would not know when it happened. We believe our angel is in heaven.

We always told Jessie she was the stars in our sky and the sun in our day. We will all miss her so very much. Life will never be the same without her. Jessie can never come back to us. She is walking the streets of gold and we will go and meet her up there some day.

Jessie was preceded in death by her brother, Zachary Ryan Bell.

Survivors include her father and mother, Danny and Gayle Bell; her brother, Isac Landon Bell; her grandparents, Clyde and Bonnie Jones, Art and Ada Bell and Deral and Nelva Mays; many aunts; uncles; cousins; friends and a dear friend, Josh Deckard.

Visitation was from 7 - 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, in the Hackleman Chapel, El Dorado Springs. Services will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 10, in the Hackleman Chapel with Bro. Dewayne Burdette and Bro. Gary Box officiating. musical selections of "Amazing Grace," "Victory in Jesus" and "Pick Up The Broken Pieces" will be provided by Marilyn Charlton. Interment will be in the Lebeck Cemetery under the direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be Larry Smith, Kenny Long, Mike Miles, Sam Barger, David Arnold and Clayton Arnold.

Lois Maxine Dever

Lois Maxine Dever, 79, was born Dec. 20, 1923, the daughter of Thomas and Etelka Phinney, and passed away peacefully on the morning of July 4, 2003.

Lois married Lloyd Dever in January of 1950. To this union three children were born. Lloyd preceded her in death on Aug. 1, 1999.
For many hears Lois worked for Hendricks Abstract Office in El Dorado Springs.

Besides her husband, Lloyd, she was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Paul and Ralph.

Survivors include her two sons, Albert - Nevada, and Allen and his wife, Anne - St. Louis, and their two children, Laura - New York City, NY, and Greg - St. Louis; her daughter, Joyce and husband, Bill Hinkle - Kansas City; her sister, Zella Rich - Gridley, KS; a brother, James Phinney - El Dorado Springs; numerous nieces and nephews.

Lois was a devoted and loving mother and will be missed by all who truly knew her.

Services were held Tuesday, July 8, in the Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Milan Bourland officiating. Musical selections were provided by Ruth Brown. Interment was in the Martin Cemetery under direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Sam Sparks, Jim Phinney, Richard Headrick, Steve Woody, Bill Hinkle and Brad Leonard.

Coy Edward Cargill

Coy Edward Cargill, 81, Stockton, was born Jan. 3, 1922 and passed away July 1, 2003, at his home after a lengthy illness.
He was baptized Nov. 7, 1943, in Snagg Creek by Bro. Arthur Wynes of the Missionary Baptist Church.

On April 26, 1947, Coy was united in marriage to Louise Evelyn McAlexander in Fort Scott, KS. To this union one son and three daughters were born.

Coy was a very dedicated, quiet and gentle family man. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather and father-in-law.

Coy worked very hard all of his life. He was a sawyer and ran a thrashing machine, worked in hay fields, farmed and was a great carpenter from which he retired in 1984.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Vera Cargill; brother, Finis Cargill; sister, Faye Julian; and great-grandson,
Johnathan Michael Simon.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Louise - of the home in Stockton; one son, Jim Cargill and wife, Judy - El Dorado Springs; three daughters - Sherrie Newman and husband, Larry - Stockton, Cathy Burres and husband, Randy - Eagan, MN, and Star Turner and husband, Chuck - Nevada; eight grandchildren - Tara Williams and husband, Jamie - Nevada, Christy Gerling and husband, Clay - Lamar, Casey Burres and wife, Lacey - Inver Grove Heights, MN, Chad Cargill and Natausha Laning - Taberville, Sarah Turner - Springfield, Corey Burres and wife, Shana - Apple Valley, MN, Julia Wimsatt and husband, Patrick - Stockton, and Daktota Newman - Stockton; 10 great-grandchildren - Lakelyn and Ridge Simon - Nevada, Brantt and Braxton Williams - Nevada, Tanner Newman - Lamar, Austin and Sierra Gerling - Lamar, Wyatt and Hallie Wimsatt - Stockton and Christiana Burres - Apple Valley, MN; five brothers - Mervin and wife, Shirley - Stockton, Irvin and wife, Jackie - Stockton, Valice - Stockton, Ivan and wife, Beulah - Stock¬ton, and Arlin - El Dorado Springs; three sisters - Zelia Houston - Shawnee Mission, KS, Melva Wallen and husband, Gerald - Stockton, and Winoma Brown - Kansas City; lots of nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
Coy had a great love for deer hunting, turkey hunting and fishing.

He was dearly loved and will be missed by all.

Services were held Saturday, July 5, at Brumback Funeral Home, Stockton. Burial was in the Pankey Cemetery, Stockton.

Lawrence Elbridge Delk

Lawrence Elbridge Delk, 78, El Dorado Springs, was born April 2, 1925, the son of Bert and Leona Delk, and passed away Sunday, June 23, 2003, in St. John's Regional Health Care Center, Springfield.

He was married to Fern Morrow on Oct. 27, 1945. To this union, two sons were born, Don and Mike.

Lawrence retired from Mid-Am Dairy after 23 years of service. He was a member of the Church of God (Holiness).

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Audrey Ward - El Dorado Springs, and Velma Hollingsworth - Springfield.
Survivors include his wife, Fern - of the home in El Dorado Springs; sons, Don Delk - El Dorado Springs, and Mike Delk - Tampa, FL; one sister, Marjorie Lea - Springfield; nine grandchildren - Tracy Ennis, Jama Nordby, Christy Ennis, Rick Delk, Randy Delk, Kelly Delk, Amanda Watkins, Ashley Delk and Mike Knoth; 22 great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and lots of friends.

Lawrence was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He loved his grandchildren and will be missed by all.

Services will begin at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26, at the Church of God (Holiness), El Dorado Springs, under the direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Visitation was from 6 - 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, in the Hackleman Chapel.

Edward Harden Applebee

Edward Harden Applebee, 53, was born in Lincoln, ME, to Eugene Roscoe Applebee and Carolyn Althea (Priest) Apple¬bee on Jan. 16, 1950, and passed from this life on June 24, 2003, in the Cedar County Memorial Hospital, El Dorado Springs following severe complications of diabetes. He was the oldest of three boys.

Ed attended school in Lincoln, ME, graduating in 1968, while living with his great-grandparents, Had and Mae Rideout.
While living in Wyoming and working in the oilfields, he married Hazel Rogers. A daugh¬ter, Carolyn June, was born to this union.

His job in the oilfields brought him to Kansas where he met and married Delores Mae Gassmann on March 16, 1974, in Grinnell, KS. There were five children from this marriage - Robert Eugene, Christopher Wayne, Andrew Phillip, Re¬becca Mae and Tina Marie.

Ed was a talented mechanic, craftsman and blacksmith. He was noted to help friends, family, strangers and communities. He helped solve problems which stumped many profes¬sionals. He loved sharing the products he created. Ed was a very giving man.

Robert, Christopher and Andrew were born in Oakley and Colby, KS, before the family moved to Caplinger Mills in 1980. Rebecca and Tina were born in El Dorado Springs and Bolivar.

Preceding him in death was his son, Christopher, who passed away on Oct. 23, 1977; his parents; grandparents; and his special great-grandparents, Had and Mae Rideout.

He is survived by his wife, Dolores - of the home; sons, Robert - El Dorado Springs, and Andrew - Humansville; daughters - Carolyn - Wyoming, and Rebecca and Tina - of the home; his brother, John - Okeechobee, FL; uncle, Bobby Emery, and grandfather, Wallace Emery - both of Eddington, ME; grandchildren - Christopher Harden, Diamond Lee, Andrew Albert and Aries Rollin, who will miss grandpa teasing them.

Services were held in the Hackleman Chapel Friday, June 28. Memorials for family choice may be sent to the Hack¬leman and Sons Funeral Home, East Hwy. 54, El Dorado Springs, MO 64744.

Dorothy Ann Cover

Dorothy Ann Cover, 78, the daughter of Frank Gussie and Stella Krazinski, was born June 4, 1925, in Republic, PA, and passed from this life on Saturday, June 21, 2003, at St. John's Hospital, Springfield.

Dorothy's given name at birth was Rita. At the approximate age of five, she was given to Brund and Anna Markotchhi Krazinski. At that time, she was given the name Dorothy Ann. She was baptized into the Roman Catholic Church on May 5, 1926. Dorothy attended both public and parochial school. She graduated from South High School, Cleveland, OH.

In 1943, Dorothy was united in marriage to Howard Schultz. Together they had one son and one daughter. Following a divorce from Howard, while she was working as a waitress, Dorothy met and married Glenn E. Cover, a patternmaker at Ford Motor Company. They were married in Brunswick, OH, on May 3, 1958. This year was their 45th wedding anniversary. In 1998, the Cover's relocated to southwest Missouri.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents and son, Howard Robert Schultz Jr., who passed away on Aug. 15, 1995, at the age of 48.

She is survived by her husband, Glen; her daughter, Karen (Schultz) Moller - who resides in Sidney, Australia; her granddaughter, Nina and grandson, Martin - both of Australia; two stepsons, Shaun and Vaughn Cover, and their families - all of Ohio.

Graveside services were held Saturday, June 21, at the Flatrock Cemetery, Schell City, with Bob Rutzen officiating under direction of the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City. Musical selections were provided by Laurel Corlett, Mary McKee and Bob Rutzen.

Dean Kirby Brown

Dean Kirby Brown, 31, El Dorado Springs, passed away on June 15, 2003. He was born on May 5, 1972, in West Covina, CA, the son of Johnnie Brown and Marian Hicks Brown.

Dean was preceded in death by his mother, Marian, and a brother, Johnnie Brown.

Survivors include his two sons, Bryan and Chase Brown - El Dorado Springs; his father, Johnnie Brown - Harwood; three sisters - Judy Norman and Karen Heiber - both of El Dorado Springs, and Teresa Fear - Lockwood; two brothers, Robert Brown - Harwood, and Michael Brown - El Dorado Springs; nieces and nephews - Melisa Smith, Joseph Norman, Jennifer Turner, Ashley and Megan Norman, Joshua Brown, Makayla and Dillon Fear, Devin Green, Nathan Brown, and Lee Lee and Jenny Brown; and great-nieces and nephews - Landen, Lance and Preston Smith, Tenera Turner and Audrey and Johnnie Brown.

May the Lord bless his soul and take him to heaven. Our love will stay with him forever.

Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, in the Harwood Cemetery with Rev. Joe Trussell officiating. Interment was in the Harwood Cemetery under the direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be left at the funeral home.

Vivian Schmidt Green

Vivian Schmidt Green, 80, passed on to her eternal reward on June 14, 2003, after a lingering illness. Vivian Theresa Schmidt was born Sept. 18, 1922, to Ernest Fredrick Martin Schmidt and Anna Theresa (Rairdan) Schmidt in Sunshine Valley, NM. As a small child she moved with her parents to Missouri and spent her life here.

Vivian attended Hazel Dell school. At age 18, Vivian was saved at a revival meeting in Stockton. She was baptized in Sac River near Caplinger Mills.

She met John Hawn at a neighborhood get-together. They went together for about three years. They were married in Kansas City on Dec. 31, 1940, at the stroke of midnight. To this union one son, Clifford Lee, was born.

Vivian was a housewife until 1960 when she went to work for the International Shoe Company. She worked there un¬til they ceased operations in El Dorado Springs in 1985.

Vivian loved gardening and she especially loved her flowers. Her family was the light of her life especially her great-grand¬son.
On Sept. 9, 1990, Vivian was united in marriage to George L. Green.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Alfred; and her husband, George, who passed away on Jan. 13, 2002.
Survivors include her son, Clifford Hawn and wife, Sharon - rural El Dorado Springs; grandson, Conway Hawn and wife, Heather - Excelsior Springs; granddaughter, Cheryl Coleman and husband, Gary, and great-grandson, Gavin - Roscoe; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs, with Rev. Howard McPeak officiating. Musical selections will be provided by Ruth Brown. Interment will be in Clintonville Cemetery. Pall¬bearers will be Steve Johnston, Charlie Dixon, Elmer Abbott, Ed McKinney, Bill Ellifrits, Dennis Schmidt, Rodney Schmidt and Don Schmidt. Honorary pallbearers will be Roger Duperron, Richard Humphrey and Bill Fairchild.

Family will receive friends from 7 - 8 p.m. Friday, June 20, in the Sheldon Chapel.

Chester E. Depue

Chester E. Depue, 88, Slater, formerly of El Dorado Springs, passed away Friday, June 6, 2003, in the University of Missouri Hospital, Columbia. He was born June 4, 1915, in Bartkesville, OK, the son of the late David and Gladys Davis Depue. He was married to Norma Schloniker.

Chester was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II where he was awarded the Purple Heart. He was a member of the American Legion Post #233, the V.F.W. Post #257 and the D.A.V. He worked most of his life as a miner. He had also farmed, welded and drove a truck. He moved to Slater in 1996 from El Dorado Springs.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Norma, in 2002; and by seven brothers and sisters.

He is survived by three sons - Harley Depue and Norman Depue - both of Slater, and David Depue - Reading, KS; a daughter, Rosella Heathman - Reading, KS; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Services were Tuesday, June 10, in the Weiker Funeral Home, Slater, with Charles R. Guthrie officiating. Organist Bethany Weiker played "How Great Thou Art" and "Will The Circle Be Unbroken." Burial with military rites was in the El Dorado Springs City
Cemetery under direction of the Weiker Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Harold Clark, Richard Graham, David Geist, Robert Depue,
Michelle Smith and Harold Rossman.

Michael Corbett Dunavin

Michael Corbett Dunavin, 57, El Dorado Springs, was born on Aug. 10, 1945, to Maxine Homan Dunavin and Corbett Franklin Dunavin. He passed away on June 1, 2003, in the Cedar County Memorial Hospital.

Survivors include his brother, Charles Daniel Dunavin - Oklahoma City, OK; his sister, Kathy Ella Wells - Odessa; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Michael resided in El Dorado Springs for the past 23 years.

Graveside services will begin at 2 p.m. Friday, May 6, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Kansas City, under the direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home.

Gayle Lynne Bradley Alexander

Gayle Lynne (Bradley) Alexander, 45, was born on March 22, 1958, to Clinton David, and Ruth Marie (Lutes) Bradley in Nevada. She went to her heavenly home on May 28, 2003.

Gayle spent the first five years of her life in Filley before moving with her family to El Dorado Springs, where she spent the remainder of her life. Gayle and her three sisters attended church from early ages, where as children they served the Lord through their beautiful music. She was baptized on April 2, 1967, at the age of nine, by Maurice Pond at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Gayle was married to Kenny Alexander from 1972 to 1996. Through this union three children were born - Kendra, Chastity and Jeremy. Gayle was a wonderful mother and homemaker who raised her children while working on the family farm. Gayle spoke of and taught her children the ways of the Lord.

In 1989, Gayle, with the support of her family, began to pursue a lifelong dream of a career in nursing. She graduated from Nevada Regional Technical Center with her LPN degree and then went on to State Fair Community College, obtaining her Associate Degree in Nursing. Gayle loved her work in nursing. She wanted to give back to the Lord some of the wonderful gifts He had given her. Gayle spent the last three years working at Nevada Regional Medical Center in the emergency room.

During Christmas 1996, Gayle found her soul mate, Albert Mallicoat. Though they had been friends for years, they had not found each other until that Christmas morning. Gayle spent the rest of her life getting to know this man, who became her best friend and one true love.

Gayle loved the outdoors, enjoying the time she spent in her yard and garden. She enjoyed cooking for her family and friends, as well as hunting, fishing and camping. Gayle had numerous friends, who each felt as though they came away with something special in their life from knowing her.

Gayle's battle with gallbladder cancer, which began in March 2003, was fought with the same strength, courage and determination that she displayed in all aspects of her life. During her illness, she won the hearts of many of her doctors and nurses, as well as their admiration. She grew closer to the Lord with each passing day.

Gayle was preceded in death by her father, Clinton Bradley. Gayle is survived by her children - Kendra Bausch, and her husband, Brien, Chastity McCullick, and her husband, Mike, and Jeremy Alexander, and his wife, Emmy; her grandchildren - Randon Alexander, Kevin Alexander, Bradley McCullick and Destiny Alexander; her mother - Ruth Bradley; her sisters - Marlene Leach; Lori Berry, and her husband, Gene, and Lisa Bradley; her surrogate sister - Linda Lockhart; and her best friend - Albert Mallicoat. She is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces and a host of family and friends. Gayle will be greatly missed by all.

Services were held on Saturday, May 31, in the Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Larry Young officiating. Musical selections were provided by Tonya and Paul Hooper.

Interment was in the El Dorado Springs Cemetery under the direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Kirk Sibley, Kenny Collins, Allen Hooper, Greg Hooper, Wayne Crusha and Drew Alexander.

Robert Earl (Bob) Ellifrits

Robert Earl (Bob) Ellifrits, 59, was born at Stotts City, MO, on May 30, 1943, the fifth child of William and Mary Bird Ellifrits. He passed away at his home on Thursday, May 22, 2003.

Bob was saved as a young man at the Caplinger Mills Baptist Church. He attended school at El Dorado Springs.

On June 17, 1962, Bob married the love of his life, Donna Jeroldene Brower. To this union four children were born - DeAnn, Debra, Donnie and MaryAnn.

Bob was employed at DariConcepts Milk Plant for 20 years. He had proudly served in the United States Air Force for two years and the National Guard for 12 years.

He enjoyed bowling with his friends that he loved. It was a big part of his life. Bob had bowled twice this last week and his team won the Wednesday Night League. Bob loved and enjoyed his family. His grand¬children often said of him that he was "Superman" of the day, "Batman" of the night with a little bit of "Spiderman" but he didn't like to climb.

He was preceded in death by his father and two brothers, James Melvin and William Irwin "Dutch."

He is survived by his wife, Jeroldene, of the home; his children - DeAnn Livengood-Peters - Richardson, TX, Debra Stone and her husband, Terry - Nevada, Donnie Ellifrits and his wife, Tina - Wichita, KS, and MaryAnn, of the home; his mother, Mary El¬lifrits - El Dorado Springs; 10 grandchildren - Autumn and Trevor Livengood, Tyrell and Trisha Cain, Taylor Peters, and Justin, Scott, Tracy, LeeAnn and Corey Stone; two sisters, Velma (Pat) Burns and Wilma (Cookie) Hickcox - both of El Dorado Springs; his mother-in-law, Leona Lyle - El Dorado Springs; several nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Services were held on Sunday afternoon, May 25, at the Church of God (Holiness) with Rev. Randy Hayward officiating. Musical selections were provided by Vera Bourland. Interment was in the Hackleman Cemetery under the direction of the Hackleman and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Bob Carpenter, Darryl Smith, Ray Hickcox, Melvin Ware, Donnie Keith, Calvin Keith, Craig Carpenter and Travis Burchett.

Eugene ' Gene' Thomas Bouse

Eugene "Gene" Thomas Bouse, 78, son of Clarence and Flora Lee Bouse, was born Feb. 9, 1925, south of Ohio Post Office in St. Clair County and passed away May 12, 2003, in El Dorado Springs.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jo Bouse; grandson, Christopher Stanley; two brothers, Harold Bouse and A.J. Bouse; and two sisters, Wilma Marshall and Elizabeth Long.

Gene is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, James and Karen Hartwell - Sahuarita, AZ; one son, James Stanley, and wife, Carole - Fort Smith, AR; two grandsons; one great-grandson; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Services were Thursday, May 15, in Sheldon Chapel with Rev. Donald Bouse officiating under direction of Sheldon Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs. Musical selections were "Amazing Grace" and "How Great Thou Art." Burial was in Eastlawn Cemetery, Tucson, AZ.

Max O. Brown

Max O. Brown, 81, was born July 17, 1921 and passed away May 6, 2003.

Max spent most of his life in south central Missouri, except for a few years aboard ship in WWII. As each of us hopefully does, Max left a path of achievement in his wake.

From his first wife, Jo Agnes, to whom he was totally devoted throughout his life, to his two daughters, Jo Ann and Mary Susan, who filled his life with love and a sense of accomplishment, Max maintained unwavering moral values and set difficult bench marks as a superior example for his family.

Max was always amazed at his family and the prosperity that was generated. He often hinted that he believed himself to be a very prosperous, poor man, finding the thought of lo¬cating a camel that could pass through the eye of a needle to be an impossible task yet seeing the undeniable benefits of living a life of service to God.

Max was embarrassed all his life for having dropped out of school during the Depression in order to take care of his family's needs. He did not understand the sacrifice he made was an indication of his personal tenacity rather than an indication of personal failure. He finally understood the value of that test was the indication that he would make the necessary sacrifice for the welfare of his family.

It was a wonderful day when in 1999, the United States Government awarded all the men and women of WWII an honorary High School Diploma. That was one of his finest days. He felt he had finally achieved an unachievable task and now he was an educated man.

Max had a much focused life. He was not one to shirk responsibility nor was he indecisive in any way, especially about his faith. When it came time to say good-bye to this world, his dignity and self respect, his moral integrity, honesty, love of helping his fellow man and humor are examples his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren have recognized and valued as the bar for the principles of living. His example of graciously placing his wife continuously on a pedestal will live on in their lives and will remain uncompromised.

Max passed all of life's tests with top marks. He was fearless about death graciously accepting his eternal healing and looked forward to hugging the family members who have waited patiently to welcome him home after his earthly tasks were finished.
We take heart knowing that Max will be waiting to wel¬come us another day. We believe he is now relaxing with his old friends from Pearl Harbor and the South Pacific while being humbled at meeting his long ago ancestors who are residing in Heaven.
Max has found another theater of operation. He, once again, has the health, wisdom and the knowledge to "stay the course."
Max O. Brown should know he left a hole in all our hearts when he entered Heaven and will be missed but never forgotten by his wife; daughters; sons-in-law, Ed Wade and Larry Moldenhauer; grandchildren and their spouses - Stephen and Beth (Moldenhauer) Anderson, Craig and Jennifer (Wade) Gundy, Curtis Moldenhauer, Jeff and Amy (Wade) Tiede and Lora Wade; his great-grandchildren - Taylor and Samantha Gundy, Elayna Anderson, Elizabeth Tiede and Hunter Molden¬hauer; his siblings, Adda Emery and Bill Brown; many nieces and nephews; and a host of loyal friends.

Max would probably have been embarrassed by all the nice words, thinking, "why all the commotion?" He would be whispering to "Joie," "when will this thing be over so I can go home?"

Max, you are forever, deeply loved.

Masonic services were held Friday, May 9, at Evergreen Memorial Chapel, Nevada. Funeral services were private. Memorial contributions may be made to the Missouri Baptist Children's Home Birthday Fund in care of Evergreen Memorial Chapel, Nevada.

Mark Wilcox

Mark Wilcox, Stockton, died Sunday, May 4, 2003, in his home as the result of a tornado that hit the area. No funeral arrangements have been made at press time.

Robert Allen Hewitt

Robert Allen Hewitt, 40, Stockton, died Sunday, May 4, 2003, in his home as the result of a tornado that hit the area. He was employed in quality control at Superior Gearbox, Stockton. Services will begin at 10 a.m. Friday, May 9, in the Stockton Christian Church if available, if not, services will be at Stockton Lake Community Church. Rev. Derek Richard will officiate. Burial will be in Stockton Cemetery under direction of Brumback Funeral Home, Stockton. Visitation will be from 6 - 8 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at the available church.

John Cassell

John Cassell, 86, Stockton, died Sunday, May 4, 2003, at his home as the result of a tornado that hit the area. He was a long-time real estate business man in Stockton.

Services will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 8, in Stockton Assembly of God Church with the Rev. Russell Maggard and Lowell Mize officiating. Burial will be in Stockton Cemetery under the direction of Brumback Funeral Home, Stockton.

John Cassell

John Cassell, 86, Stockton, died Sunday, May 4, 2003, at his home as the result of a tornado that hit the area. He was a long-time real estate business man in Stockton.

Services will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 8, in Stockton Assembly of God Church with the Rev. Russell Maggard and Lowell Mize officiating. Burial will be in Stockton Cemetery under the direction of Brumback Funeral Home, Stockton.

Robert Lee Gresham

Robert Lee Gresham, 79, son of Henry Palace and Nettie Beatrice (Morgan) Gresham, was born Aug. 30, 1923, on the Gresham home place near Taberville, and passed from this life on Saturday, May 3, 2003, at Research Medical Center, Kansas City.

Bob attended Ruark School near Taberville through the eighth grade. On Dec. 30, 1942, he was united in marriage to Alta L. Schaeffer. To their union, one son and two daughters were born. Later, in 1973, he married Ruth O'Brien and became step-father to her two sons and three daughters. Bob farmed and worked as a mechanic most of his life. During WWII, he served our country in the Army Air Corp where he was awarded the American Service medal, the Asiatic Pacific Service medal, the Philippines Liberation ribbon, the WWII Victory medal and the Good Conduct medal.

He leaves to mourn his pass¬ing three sisters - Virginia Mann - Lebanon, and Virgie (Mrs. Noah) Shaw and Dorothy Kramer - both of El Dorado Springs; eight children - Robert J. Gresham - Falls City, NE, Sharon L. (Gresham) Boatman, and Janice L. (Gresham) Kenley - both of Beatrice, NE, Joseph O'Brien - El Dorado Springs, Jeanie (O'Brien) Knaus - Pembine, WI, Mary O'Brien and Peggy O'Brien - both of Harrisonville, and David O'Brien - Kansas City; 20 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Roy Ray; one great-granddaughter; and one great-grandson.
Bob was loved but not forgotten. He's gone fishing and is sitting on a quiet riverbank somewhere.

Graveside memorial services with military honors were Thursday, May 8, in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery near Taberville, with Rev. Don Bliss officiating. Musical selections are "The River" and "The Dance" by Garth Brooks. Services and cremation were under direction of Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City.

Donald L. Alumbaugh

Don L. Alumbaugh, 84, El Dorado Springs, passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2003, at St. Luke's Hospital, Kansas City. He was born Oct. 9, 1918, in Harwood, the son of Bert and Bessie Alumbaugh. Don retired from Lake City Arsenal in 1976 and moved to El Dorado Springs in 1980 from Indepen¬dence.

He was an Army veteran of World War II. Don was also an Eagle Scout, by the name of Totem Pole. His wife of 44 years, Rosa May Alumbaugh, preceded him in death on March 1, 1989.

Survivors include his wife, Norma Jean Justus Alumbaugh, who he married in September 1989, of the home; four sons - Charles and wife, Connie - Las Vegas, NV, Don and wife, Sue - Blue Springs, Bob and wife, Mary - Camdenton, and Larry - Independence; one daughter, Beverly Banks - Kansas City; one step-son, Dale Birdsong - Jefferson City; two step-daugh¬ters, Patsy and husband, Larry Kinnamon - Belton, and Linda and husband, Glen Hammond - St. Louis; 20 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; and one sis¬ter, Doris Jackson - Nixa. Don will be deeply missed by all.

Services were held Monday, May 5, in the Hackleman Chapel with Rev. Bill Cle¬venger officiating. Interment was in the Harwood Cemetery under direction of the Hackle¬man and Sons Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Charles Alum¬baugh, Donald Alumbaugh, Robert Alumbaugh, Larry Alumbaugh, Jeff Alumbaugh and Scott Alumbaugh.

Mary Margaret Flake

Mary Margaret Flake, 78, was born on a farm near Schell City, on Aug. 23, 1924, to Eugene Oliver Losey and Mary Louise Losey. She passed away on April 28, 2003, at Willis Knighton Medical Center, Shreveport, LA. She was preceded in death by her father and mother; her husband, John Thomas Flake; her sister, Helen Louise Ruby; and her brothers, John Stephen Losey and James Elbert Losey.

She is survived by two sisters-in-law, Eileen Losey and Lottie Bennefield; seven nieces - Mary Kane, June Perkins, Anne Blackett, Linda Baird, Kaye Carney, Cathy Gripka and Joyce Watson; three nephews - William Losey, Jerry Losey and Thomas Bennefield; and a number of great-nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind many friends in Shreveport, LA; Dennison, TX; Parsons, KS; and in the Schell City-Nevada area.

Mary Flake will always be remembered with a smile. She found humor in almost everything and was happiest when making sure those around her saw it too. Her friends and family called her Marg or Margie, reflecting the warmth and affection she showed to them. No one escaped her quick wit and practical jokes and no one failed to love her for them.

She was an accomplished seamstress and provided her nieces and nephews with teddy bears dressed to the nines and muslin rabbits in gingham dresses. She pieced beautiful quilts and tailored many garments.

Marg and J.T. moved often while he worked for the K.A.T.Y. and Kansas City Southern Railroads. Marg made many lasting friends in each place. Her nieces and nephews couldn't wait for summer trips to Marg's, often staying for two or three weeks, being spoiled by their favorite aunt. Shelling peas and snapping green beans for canning became contests and muddy ponds and strip pits became swimming holes. Fun followed Marg from house to house and city to city.

Marg held many jobs including a telephone operator in Schell City; a school bus driver in Harwood; a power line worker at Hercules Armament Factory in Sunflower, KS; a seamstress in a garment factory; and a dry goods clerk at J.C. Penny in Parsons, KS, and Dennison, TX.

She was as generous to her community as she was to her family. Shortly after moving to Shreveport, Marg noticed an elderly woman walking home from the grocery store carrying heavy bags in the rain. Marg stopped to offer her a ride and at first the woman was fearful and refused. Marg talked to her to reassure her that she would be safe, beginning a friendship that would last for years.

Marg made regular trips to the store for the woman and her elderly husband, sometimes providing a ride and often buying the groceries and delivering them. The couple lived in an older house with only a wood stove for heat. Marg provided firewood and checked to be sure they had food and medicine. After the man died, Marg continued to visit. When she found the house empty one day, she contacted the neighbors until she found her living in a nurs¬ing home. Marg visited her regularly, bringing the one thing the woman requested, chewing tobacco. They remained friends until the woman's death.

Mary Margaret Flake was a strong woman with a generous heart and a view of life that caused everyone to smile. The "Marge stories" her family and friends could tell would fill a large volume and will remain in their hearts long after she is gone. Their world is sadder without her.

Services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, May 2, in the Schell City Christian Church. Visitation will be from 10 - 11 a.m. prior to the service at the church. Pallbearers will be Eugene Crawford, William Perkins, Jerry Losey, William Losey, Matthew Gripka and Jon Gripka. Interment will be in the Green Mound Cemetery, Harwood, under the direction of the Lewis-Hoagland Funeral Home, Schell City. Memorials are suggested to the Schell City Christian Church.

Norman "Okie" Crawford Jr.

Norman "Okie" Crawford Jr., 58, left us in the quiet of the morning to join his family and Savior on Sunday, April 27, 2003.

Norman was born in Springfield on June 19, 1944. He lived life to the fullest. He was a simple man who loved to fish, hunt, play the guitar and watch things grow. His daughter, Mary, grew to love him more and more each day as they worked the garden together. He used to tell her "The easiest way to do things, girl, is the best." She learned a lot from him and will miss him very much.

He was united in marriage to Dorothy Wright in 1982. Dorothy lost her battle with cancer in 1999.

He served his country as a radio operator in the Vietnam War and received a Purple Heart fighting for his nation. He will receive a full military funeral at the National Cemetery, Spring¬field, on Thursday, May 1.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Shirley, and brother, Butch.

He is survived by his daugh¬ters, Mary Janes and family, and Belinda Steffen and family - all of El Dorado Springs; son, Bob Crawford and family - Tulsa, OK; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; three step-children - Wayne, Donna and Lisa Marriott; six sisters - Donna - Aldrich, Kay - Alabama, Pasty - Springfield, Janice - Springfield, Judy - Fair Play, and Virginia - Springfield; and one brother, Henry - Fair Play.

Nola B. Appleyard

Nola Blanche Appleyard, 87, passed away Thursday, April 17, 2003, at the Hillcrest Nursing Home, McCook, NE. She was born April 24, 1915, in Simela, CO, the daughter of the late Harry Valentine and Myrtle (Bales) Stone. At an early age, Nola's family moved to McCook, NE, where she grew up and graduated from McCook Senior High School. She attended McCook Jr. College and began teaching rural school in Frontier County, NE.

On Aug. 12, 1940, Nola married Oliver James Appleyard in McCook, NE. They made their home in Curtis, NE, where her husband owned and operated Appleyard's Standard Oil station and fuel delivery service for 28 years. They moved to McCook in 1969.

Nola was a 60 year member of United Methodist Church, an active member of Memorial United Methodist Church in McCook and a member of the VFW Auxiliary. She enjoyed many crafts and oil painting.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Oliver, on Oct. 16, 1993; one brother, Dick Stone; and three sisters - Alice Conrad, Mala Thornley and Elfie Weaver.

Nola is survived by three daughters - Marilyn Johnson and husband, Earl - Curtis, NE, Janet Newcomb and husband, Paul "Dow" - Cambridge, NE, and Judy Mercer and companion, Paul Paz - McCook, NE; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; three brothers - Lloyd Stone and wife, Mary - El Dorado Springs, Roger Stone - Nevada, and Larry Stone and wife, Rhonda - Hays, KS; three sisters - Norma Moore and husband, Russ - Delta, Co, Laura Stuck and husband, Waine - McCook, NE, and Clara Simeon - Grand Island, NE; and other relatives and friends.

Services were held Tuesday, April 22, in the Memorial United Methodist Church, McCook, NE, with Rev. Dr. Jef¬fery Thurman officiating. Musical selections, "How Great Thou Art" and " I Know Who Holds Tomorrow," were provided by Dex and Janelle Petersen accompanied by organist Marie Coffey. Pallbearers were Bryan Newcomb, Matt Newcomb, Dex Petersen, Rod Reppening, Mike Hinson and Paul Paz. Interment was in Memorial Park Cemetery, McCook, NE.

June E. Davis

June E. Davis passed away April 16, 2003, in Springfield. She was preceded in death by her husband, Luther F. Davis; her parents and two brothers.

Survivors include her daughter, Patricia Davis Reed; a son-in-law, E.L. Reed; and a grandson, Travis Reed, all of Chillicothe; a sister of Halltown, and numerous nieces and nephews.

June and her husband, Luther, were both teachers in the El Dorado Springs school system for 24 years.
She was a member of the United Methodist Church, El Dorado Springs.

Merrill Waldron Buckles

Merrill Waldron Buckles, 72, Amarillo, TX, formerly of El Dorado Springs, passed away April 14, 2003.

Mr. Buckles was born Feb. 23, 1931, in Kiowa, KS, to Dwight Eli and Gladys Alva Hendricks Buckles. He served in the US Air Force from 1951 to 1955. He was a member of the Amarillo Police Department from 1955 to 1959, was director of the Amarillo Animal Shelter from 1959 to 1976, and a deputy with Potter County Sheriff's Office from 1976 to 1990. He was a member of Palo Duro Masonic Lodge and Mescalero Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Estelle, of the home; two daughters, Susan Dunlap and Cynthia Fesler - both of Amarillo, TX; seven sons - Daniel Buckles and Paul Buckles - both of Amarillo, TX, Steve Buckles - Pontotoc, MS, Patrick Scott - Canyon, TX, Chuck Scott - Lewiston, ID, Bill Scott - Amarillo, TX, and Jim Scott - Amarillo, TX; 21 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Curtis Buckles - Kansas; one sister - Mauricia and her husband, Roy Reeves - Kansas; and two special friends, Linda Henry and Erin Smitherman - both of Canyon, TX.

He was preceded in death by his father in 1991; his mother in 1994; and an infant sister in 1928.

Services will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 17, in Mescalero Baptist Church, with Rev. Kevin Oakley, pastor, officiating.
Memorials are suggested to the Mescalero Baptist Church parking lot fund.