The Topeka Capital-Journal 1980-Present *** 2006 *** ___________________ 09 Apr 2006, Sunday Daniel M. "Danny" Becker Daniel M. Danny Becker, 45, of Meriden, KS., died Friday, April 7, 2006 at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka. Danny was born March 4, 1961 at Topeka, the son of Max C. and Mary Ellen Konrad Becker. He had lived in Meriden since 1969. Danny owned and operated Max Mart Convenience Store and Danny Becker Liquor Store in Meriden since 1995. He had formerly worked as Supervisor of Transportation and Purchasing at St. Francis Hospital for 20 years. He was a member of St. Aloysius Church in Meriden, the Sons of the American Legion Unit #225 at Ozawkie and the Sons of V.F.W. #10815 in Meriden. Danny was a 1979 graduate of Jefferson West High School and attended the University of Kansas at Lawrence. He was married to Lisa Anne Dunivan on July 20, 1985 at Meriden; they were later divorced. He is survived by his Father, Max C. Becker and Mother, Mary Ellen Becker, one Son, Dustin D. Becker, one Daughter, Ashley D. Becker, all of Meriden, and one Sister, Kim Paulsen, Topeka. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, at St. Aloysius Church in Meriden. Burial will follow at Meriden Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:30 to 8:00 PM, Tuesday at the Church, and a Prayer Service will be at 8:00 PM, Tuesday. Memorials may be made to the Danny Becker Memorial Scholarship Fund for a Students of Jefferson West High School and sent in care of Barnett-Chapel Oaks Meriden Chapel, P.O. Box 331, Meriden, KS. 66512. ___________________ 29 Sep 2006, Friday Funerals Today Violet L. Aubert, 2 p.m. graveside, Topeka Cemetery's Garden Chapel. Katheryn Elizabeth Clemens, 1 p.m., Bowser Johnson Funeral Chapel. Anthony J. "Tony" Krelier, 10:30 a.m., St. Thomas Catholic Church, Stockton. Duane Allen Laird, 11 a.m., Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. Lois Lafferty, 10:30 a.m., Jones Funeral Home, Burlington. George Polimann, 10:30 a.m., Maple Hill Community Congregational Church, Maple Hill. Carolyn Jo Rhoades, 11 a.m., Davidson Funeral Home. - - - Loyal Joseph Atwood Loyal Joseph Atwood, 83, Auburn, passed away Wednesday, September 27, 2006, at Lexington Park Nursing Center. He was born July 22, 1923, on the family farm west of Auburn, the son of Loyal and Edna Maria Holmes Atwood. He attended Twinville Grade School and graduated from Auburn High School. He took pride in working on his farm and retired with many great memories. He was President of the Shawnee County Farm Bureau and a member of the Dover School Board, Pauline Elevator Coop Board, FHA Board, Auburn Township Board, Keene Wesleyan Church, Wanamaker Woods Church of the Nazarene and the Wakarusa Watershed. He married Elsie Roberta Gifford, July 22, 1945, at her parents home, west of Auburn. His loving wife of 61 years survives at the home. Other survivors include children, Elsie Dossett and husband Johnnie, McPherson, KS, Betty Childers, Lawrence, KS, Lawrence Atwood and wife Sherry, Auburn, KS, and John Atwood and wife Leatrice, Auburn, KS; 12 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren; a brother, Ralph Atwood, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Margaret Childers, who died in 1988, two brothers and three sisters. A funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, October 2, 2006, at the Wanamaker Woods Church of the Nazarene, 3501 SW Wanamaker Road, Topeka, KS. Burial will be in Auburn Cemetery. Mr. Atwood will lie in state and family visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, at the Church. The family requests memorials be given to the Wanamaker Woods Church of the Nazarene, the Auburn Lions Club or Heart of America Hospice, and sent % Carey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 196, Burlingame, KS 66413. - - - Katheryn Elizabeth Clemens Katheryn Elizabeth Clemens, 86, died September 21 at her home. Service: Friday, Sept. 29 1 p.m. at Bowser Johnson Funeral Chapel, Inc. Instate: Friday, Sept. 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Burial: Mt. Auburn Cemetery. - - - Thomas Orin Dutton Thomas Orin Dutton, 64, Topeka, died Wed., Sept. 27, 2006, at St. Francis Hospital. He was born Sept. 7, 1942 at Lawrence, the son of Harry O. and Caroline (Beasley) Dutton. Tom had been an Engineer Tech at KDOT. He was a member of Oakland United Methodist Church, and Oakland I.O.O.F. Lodge # 640. He was active with Troop # 1, Boy Scouts of America. He was married to Nancy Jahnke on June 23, 1967. They were divorced. Tom married Beverly J. LaCrone on Sept. 7, 1985 at Topeka. She survives. Also surviving are 4 sons: John Dutton of Billings, MT, Mark Dutton of Topeka, Michael Vasques of Topeka, and Daniel Vasques-Dutton of the home; 4 daughters: Katie Etzel of Topeka, Angela Higgins of Topeka, Elizabeth Hill of Salina, and Felica Vasquez-Dutton of Topeka; a brother: Ron Dutton of Lakewood, CA; 6 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be at 10:00 a..m., Sat., Oct. 7, 2006, at Oakland United Methodist Church followed by lodge services conducted by Oakland I.O.O.F. Lodge # 640. At Toms request, please wear bright festive attire. Memorial contributions may be made to the Thomas O. Dutton Memorial Fund, 3421 N.W. Fredith Lane, Topeka, KS 66618. To leave a special message for the famiy online, visit www.PenwellGabel.com. - - - Philip W. Harsh Philip W. Harsh passed away at home in Topeka on Wednesday, September 27, 2006. He was 90 years old. He was born in Webster Groves, Missouri on April 12, 1916, the son of George and Erle Coussens Harsh. He was preceded in death by his two brothers, William and George, and his two sisters, Erle Lund and Betty Armstrong. He attended public schools in Webster Groves and Kirkwood, graduating from Kirkwood High School in 1933. He attended the University of Missouri where he played polo and was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. A lifelong sports fan, he was a devoted supporter of Missouri Tiger teams. He was equally passionate about major league baseball, following in turn the St. Louis Browns, the Kansas City Athletics, and the Kansas City Royals. Prior to World War Two, he worked for Montgomery Ward in Newton and Larned, Kansas. He joined the Army in 1941 and was commissioned a lieutenant in 1943. He served with the 45th Colored Engineers, working on the Burma Road in India. After the war, he worked for Unitog in Kansas City until 1948, when he joined Hallmark Cards. In 1955 he moved to Topeka after transferring to Hallmarks sales division. He retired in 1981. He married Nancy Carver on May 29, 1948 at the Country Club Christian Church in Kansas City. She survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Bayliss and her husband Doug DuBois, Lawrence; three sons, Philip, Berryton, Kan., George and his wife Kathy, Topeka; William, Chicago; and three grandchildren, Sarah, Emily and Philip, all of Topeka. He was well known at the SCABA youth baseball parks at Shawnee Lake in the 1960s as the manager of the Hallmark Crowns. He was an avid horseman all his life. After retirement, he volunteered extensively with the Explorer Scouts, Lets Help, Inc., the Capper Foundation and KNI, being named Volunteer of the Month by the Capital-Journal in August, 1983. He was a longtime, very active member of the First Presbyterian Church and the Topeka Roundup Club. Cremation is planned. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, October 2, 2006 at the First Presbyterian Church, 817 SW. Harrison, Topeka, Kan. 66612. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be given to the charity of the donors choice. - - - David J. Heath Graveside services for David J. Heath, 58, Chesterfield, Missouri will be at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, 2006, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lawrence. He died Wednesday, September 27, 2006. Loving husband of Cynthia G. (Schmidt) Heath; cherished father of daughters, Heather Heath Ryan and Ashley Heath; dearest father-in-law of Peter Ryan and cousin Raymond Ikehorn. David was a well-respected attorney and labor negotiator for MDC/Boeing. He is also remembered by his extended family and friends. He was an avid Kansas Jayhawk fan, his sports knowledge was legendary and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. The family suggests memorials to the Washburn University Law School Foundation and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, Lawrence, KS. Online condolences may be sent to www.warrenmcelwain.com. - - - Carl D. Lester Carl D. Lester, 57, of Marysville, died Sept. 27, 2006 at Lincoln, Neb., Heart Hospital. Funeral services will be held Sat. Sept. 30, 2006, 10 a.m. at the United Methodist Church, Marysville. Carl was born Feb. 5, 1949 in Topeka, the son of Delbert Lester and Margaret Stewart Lester. He married Carol Locke on September 30, 1966. Visitation time at Kinsley Mortuary: Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. A memorial fund has been established. Carl worked at Tension Envelope from 1970 to 1983 and at the City of Marysville, 1983-1987. In 1987 he went to work for Landoll Corporation until his death; working as an inventory coordinator. Carl could fix anything, small engines and lawnmowers, had a talent for numbers. He liked wrestling, rock and roll music, loved roses and planted flowers with the neighbors; he liked the Yankees baseball, and grampy to many. Survivors: spouse Carol Lester, of Marysville; brothers Paul Lester, of Scranton, KS, Melvin Lester and Robert Lester of Topeka, Glenn Ferris of Marysville, David Ferris and Mike Ferris, both of Scranton. - - - Raymond Levick Raymond Levick, formerly of Wetmore, died Sept. 25, 2006 at the Apostolic Christian Home in Sabetha at the age of 89. Memorial services will be Saturday, Sept. 30, 2006 at 10:00 A.M. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Visitation from 9:00 a.m. to service time at the funeral home. - - - Dolores Lira Dolores Lira, 88 of Topeka, passed away Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at Midland Hospice House. Mrs. Lira was one of the original meter maids for the city of Topeka. She was employed by the city for thirteen years before she retired in 1978. She was born April 12, 1918 in Waverly of Ricardo and Victoria Lopez Tostado. Mrs. Lira was a member of St. Matthew Catholic Church. She was married to Toribio Lira on June 3, 1937 in Topeka, he survives. Other survivors include one son, Richard Lira, and his wife Rhetta, of Topeka, one daughter, Mary A. Garcia of Topeka, and one sister, Mary Barranco of Topeka. Five grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and five great great-grandchildren also survive. Two brothers; Anthony Lardio and Alfonso Tostado, and three sisters; Esther Sandeffer, Josephine Tostado and Christina Charvez all preceded her in death. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Matthew Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Mrs. Lira will lie in state from 4- 8:00 p.m. today at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home where a scriptural rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. followed by a vigil prayer service at 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice and sent in care of the funeral home. - - - Erma L. Lomax Erma L. Lomax, 98, Topeka, died Thursday, Sept. 28, 2006 at Brewster Place. She was born Aug. 15, 1908 in Deweese, Nebraska, the daughter of Thomas W. and Blanche V. Hines Bradley. She and her husband lived in Atchison for several years before coming to Topeka in 1943. Mrs. Lomax attended the University of Nebraska and taught school in rural schools for several years. She was a member of Chapter DV of the PEO Sisterhood, Stormont-Vail Hospital Auxillary, and Countryside United Methodist Church. She had been active in girl scout activities. She married Loyd J. Lomax on May 19, 1930. He died March 31, 1996. She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Vera Enfield and Wilma Bradley, and a daughter, Carol Jane Lomax in 1952. Survivors include a son, Ken B. Lomax and wife, Shirley, Orlando, FL; a daughter, L. Sue Lomax and husband, George Jeremias, Locust, NJ; two grandchildren, Angela McLeod and husband, William, Olathe, Bradley Lomax, Emporia; and three great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Saturday at Countryside United Methodist Church with interment in Mt. Hope Cemetery. Mrs. Lomax will lie in state after noon today at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel where the family will receive friends from 7-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship and sent to P.E.O. Executive Office, 3700 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312-2899. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabel.com. - - - Teresa Mendez Teresa Mendez, 86, Indianapolis, Ind., passed away on September 26, 2006. She was born on September 29, 1919 in Kanopolis, Kansas to the late Luis Medina Mendez and Patrocina Correa Mendez. She had 23 brothers and sisters. Surviving siblings: Trinidad, Luis, Raymond, Kristina, Jose, Mary Ellen, Martha and Aurora. Children: Patty Place of Monash, Australia, David Mendez Jr., Sandy Switzer, Debbie Wiseman, and Cindy Mendez of Indianapolis; Jerome Mendez of Delaware. She had two sons who preceded her in death. 15 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She worked for Seymours in Topeka, Kansas until October of 1949 when she moved to Indianapolis, and worked for RCA, Wren plastics, Topics, and was also an Avon product representative for many years. As a member of Holy Cross since 1951, she coached CYO Kickball, was troop leader for Catholic Daughters of America, CYO Camp Monitor, among other numerous school/church volunteer groups. Services will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church on Saturday, September 30 at Noon with visitation there from 10:00 a.m. The family has sincerely requested contributions to Holy Cross. Services entrusted to Grinsteiner Funeral Home. - - - Joseph John O'Toole, Sr. Joseph John OToole, Sr., age 89, of rural Marysville, died Sept. 27 in Lincoln, NE. Funeral Mass will be held 10 a.m. Sat., Sept. 30 from St. Gregory Church, Marysville. Rosary at 7 p.m. Friday from the church. Burial in St. Gregorys Cemetery. Visitation: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday at Kinsley Mortuary, Marysville, and one hour before the Rosary and Mass at St. Gregorys. - - - Rev. Thaddeus P. Patterson Rev. Thaddeus P. Patterson, 95, Topeka passed away peacefully on Sept. 23, 2006. On Feb. 19, 1934, his life was further enriched when he married Novella (Wilhoite) Patterson. From this union, they were blessed with one son, Garland James Patterson, and one adopted son/nephew, Frank Patterson. Rev. Patterson was preceded in death by his loving wife Novella, and son/nephew Frank. Rev. Patterson enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1928 and served with the 9th Calvary at Fort Riley, Kansas. Rev. Patterson was employed by the Goodyear and Rubber for 27 years, before he retired. Rev. Patterson, former Pastor of the Mt. Olive Primitive Baptist Church, Topeka, KS for 62 yrs. He served faithfully until his retirement in November 2004. Rev. Patterson also served as Moderator for the Great Northern Primitive Baptist Association for 42 years. Survivors include his son, Garland J. Patterson (Donna), Muncie, IN; grandson/caregiver Dwight J. Patterson (Ruth), Topeka, KS; 12 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, 29 great great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Family visitation will be Friday, September 29, 6-8 p.m. at the Bowser-Johnson Funeral Chapel, Inc. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 30, 10:00 a.m. at First Church God in Christ, 614 SE California Avenue with burial at Mt. Hope Cemetery. - - - Erma I. Rutledge Erma I. Rutledge, 83, of Topeka, passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at a Topeka care facility. She was born on September 1, 1923 in Topeka, the daughter of Claude and Elsie Beary Anno. She was a life-long Topeka resident. She graduated from Highland Park High School in 1941. She was an accounting department manager for Southwestern Bell for thirty years before retiring in 1977. She was a member of the VFW Auxiliary, the Phi Tau Omega Sorority where she held various offices including Secretary/Treasurer, Vice-President and President of her chapter, and a life-time member of the Southwestern Bell Telephone Pioneers. Prior to a stroke in 1976, Erma enjoyed participating in sports, particulary horseback riding, water skiing and softball. Erma married Jess Rutledge on April 5, 1943 in Topeka. He preceded her in death on May 13, 1983. Survivors include one daughter, Jo Newman and her husband, Peter of Topeka, her grandchildren, Jenny Hendrix, Wendy Barnett and Jeremy Lyden, eight great-grandchildren and two sisters, Emma Wilson and Ida Hall-Smith both of Topeka. Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel. Burial will follow in Topeka Cemetery. Erma will lie in state from 1:00-6:00 p.m. Sunday at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel where the family will receive friends from 3:00-5:00 p.m. A special message may be given to the family online at www.PenwellGabel.com. - - - Wayne Dale Swanson Wayne Dale Swanson, 71, passed away at the Colmery-ONeil VA Medical Center in Topeka, KS on Wednesday, September 27, 2006. He was born February 9, 1935 in Marysville, KS, the son of Raymond and Myrtle Swanson. He was raised in Abilene, KS and in 1953 graduated from Abilene High School where he held the half mile record in track for over forty years. He attended Kansas University on a track scholarship and was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and the KU track team. In 1958 he earned his B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering. Wayne married Blossom Frakes of Lawrence, KS on October 5, 1957. Upon graduation from KU, Wayne entered the US Marine Corps as a 2nd Lieutenant, and embarked upon a training program to become a jet pilot. While stationed in Corpus Christi, Texas, however, he contracted polio, then moved to Topeka to be near his family and the local V.A. hospital in 1959. He retired from the Marine Corps due to his disability. In 1967 he received a M.S. degree in mathematics from Emporia State University. He was a staunch supporter of the Kansas Jayhawks and attended home basketball and football games religiously. Wayne was an avid duplicate bridge player and earned the ranking of Life Master from the American Contract Bridge League. He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans and the KU Alumni Association, a member of the Topeka Jayhawk Club and K-Club, plus a longtime contributor to the KU Williams Educational Fund. Wayne dearly loved and enjoyed his family and organized frequent gatherings. Survivors include: his wife Blossom Swanson of Topeka; son Brent Swanson and his wife Suzette and two children, Brianna and Westley, of Fullerton, CA; daughter Beth Swanson and her husband Kevin Rowe and four children, Rachael, Caitlin, Kelley and Mackenna, of Kearny, MO; his brother Lee Swanson and wife Edna May of Enterprise, Kansas; his sister Alice Base and her husband Jack of Abilene, Kansas; and numerous nieces and nephews. A sister, Shirley Rice, and two grandsons, Michael Wayne Rowe and Ryan Joseph Rowe, preceded him in death. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 30, 2006 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Avenue. Burial will follow at Penwell-Gabel Cemetery & Mausoleum. He will lie in state after 1 p.m. today at the funeral home where the family will receive friends from 7 to 8 p.m. this evening. Memorial contributions may be made to Topeka Rescue Mission, 600 N. Kansas Avenue, Topeka, KS 66608-1240. To leave a special message for the family online, please visit www.PenwellGabel.com. ___________________ 11 Oct 2006, Friday Dorothy Ann Binney Dorothy Ann Binney, 78, passed away, Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2006. Dorothy was born June 28, 1928 in Santa Barbara, CA the daughter of Ernie and Anna Burger. She married Charles William Kirkpatrick on Dec. 30, 1947 he preceded her in death on Oct. 4, 1966. She married Gerald Binney, Jan. 1, 1972; he survives. Dorothy leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, children, Chris Kirkpatrick, Elsinore, UT, Gerry and Vicki Binney, of the home, Terry and Nancy Binney, Manhattan, KS; nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild; sister, Joyce and Dick Schwartz, Yucca Valley, CA; brother, Dick and Joanne Goodrich, Danville, CA. She was preceded in death by her sister, Donna Toovey. A graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday at Rossville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Heart of America Hospice, 5930 SW 29th, Topeka, KS 66614. Online condolences may be sent to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. *** 2007 *** *** 2008 *** *** 2009 *** ___________ 30 Aug 2009 Dorothy Alexander Dorothy Alexander, 88, of Topeka, passed away August 28, 2009. She was born October 16, 1921 in Atchison, the daughter of Pete and Minnie Shepard. She and her husband Albert (Alex) Alexander owned and operated Alexanders Auto Parts for several years. She is survived by a daughter, Connie Alexander, of Topeka. Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband Albert (Alex), a sister and two brothers. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 1, 2009, at Topeka Cemetery on the Garden Chapel. Mrs. Alexander will lie in State after 1:00 p.m. Monday, August 31, at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence, Topeka. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6:00 to 8:00 Monday evening. To leave a special message for the family online, please visit PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 31 Aug 2009 Isaiah Keeton Absher Isaiah Keeton Absher, 5, Silver Lake, passed away on Saturday, August 29, 2009 at Stormont Vail Regional Health Center. Isaiah was born September 12, 2003 in Topeka, the son of Vince and Amy (Absher) Bahm. He was diagnosed at the age of three with Autism. Isaiah loved school and was currently in Stacy Clarks Kindergarten class at Silver Lake Elementary. Anje Herrington was his para-educator. Isaiah had a joyful spirit and was always happy. He loved music and the outdoors. Survivors include his parents of Silver Lake; sister, Olivia Absher; brother, Vincent Bahm; grandparents, Beauford and Jeneanne Absher, Oskaloosa, Richard and Judy Frost, Topeka; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 2, 2009 at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence. Burial will follow at Silver Lake Cemetery. Isaiah will lie in state at the funeral home after 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday and visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Isaiah Absher Memorial fund, c/o Capital City Bank, 2040 NW Topeka, Topeka, Kansas 66608. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 03 Sep 2009 John P. Adamson John P. Adamson, 75, of Topeka, passed away on Tuesday, September 1, 2009. He was born on March 27, 1934 in Racine, WI, the son of Robert and Sybil Adamson. He was an Army veteran of the Korean War. He had resided in Topeka for the past 20 years. He was a member of the V.F.W. John married Wilma K. Adamson on August 25, 1989 in Pittsburg, KS. She survives. Other survivors include one son, John Adamson, Jr. of Racine, WI, one daughter, Debra Vash of Kenosha, WI, one step-son, Mark currently in Iraq, three step-daughters, Kathie of Alabama, Veronica of Missouri and Shelly of Pittsburg, KS and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three brothers. Cremation has taken place and no memorial services are planned. Private inurnment will take place at a later date. Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel is in charge of arrangements. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 05 Sep 2009 Raymond E. Adams, Jr. Raymond E. Adams Jr. was born April 10, 1931, in Maple Hill, Kansas and died Sept. 3, 2009, at his home. He was the senior partner in the Adams Cattle Co. with his three oldest sons which was founded by his father, Raymond E. Adams Sr. He leaves a legacy of accomplishments in the livestock and meat industry. A most valued accomplishment was being one of the founders as Secretary-Treasurer for U.S. Premium Beef, which helped to improve the quality of meat offered to the public and paid a premium to ranchers that produced a higher quality product. He took great pride and pleasure in the Quarter horses which were bred and raised as working ranch horses and were recognized by the Quarter Horse Association for their outstanding quality. He attended the Pembroke Country Day School in Kansas City, Missouri and graduated in 1949. He attended Cornell University, The University of Kansas and he received his Degree in Animal Science from Kansas State University. He served in the Air Force as a 1st Lieutenant and was honorably discharged in May 1954. Raymond became a member of the Kansas Livestock Association in 1954. He was also a member of the Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association. He was a Board member of the Livestock Meat and Industry Council (LMIC) for 15 years. He was awarded the Outstanding Stockman Award in 2006 for K-State's Block and Bridle Club; LMIC Stockman of the Year Award in 2005. In 2004, the Adams Ranch was named Hereford Breeder of the Year. He served on the Board of Directors for the Cowboy Hall of Fame; on the Board for Stockgrowers' State Bank in Maple Hill, Kansas for more than 30 years; and on the Board of Stormont-Vail Regional Health Center in Topeka, Kansas for 18 years. Raymond was a lifetime member of the Maple Hill Community Congregational Church and contributed to the maintenance and endurance of the Old Stone Church in Maple Hill, Kansas. He was well known for his generosity and contributions to individuals and organizations which supported the values of hard work and integrity which he held dear. He is survived by his children, son Raymond E. (Eddie) Adams III (Peggy), of Maple Hill; daughter Marie Dolembo (Tom), of Michigan; daughter Sally Bitar, of Olathe, Kan.; son John Adams (Paula), Plains, Kan.; son Clay Adams (Carolyn), of Knowles, Okla.; son Charles Adams, of Berryton; brother David Adams (Judy), of Meade, Kan.; sister Ann Russell (Bob), of Lawrence; eight grandchildren, Janne Denton (Casey), of Maple Hill, Raymond E. (Pete) Adams IV, of Maple Hill, Rebecca Young, of Lawrence, Emily Bitar, of Olathe, Lacy Adams, of Plains, Jack Adams, of Plains, Katie Adams, of Knowles, and Will Adams, of Knowles; and three great-grandchildren, Lauren Newell, Meredith Denton and Sarah Denton, all of Maple Hill. He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Rhiannon Meier, of Lawrence. Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 7, at the Old Stone Church in Maple Hill, with a gathering at the Parish Hall in Maple Hill after the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to the Maple Hill Community Congregational Church, 104 E. 4th Street, Maple Hill, KS 66507. Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel is assisting the family. To leave a message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 07 Sep 2009 Robert Adame Robert Contreras Adame, 79, Topeka, passed away Sat., Sept. 5, 2009. Robert was born Oct. 28, 1929 in Meriden, the son of Sebastian and Natividad Contreras Adame. He came to Topeka in the 1940's. Mr. Adame served our country in the US Army. He married Guadalupe Lupercio. She survives. Mr. Adame retired from the State Hospital as well as from the US Postal Service. He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, Nate Morales Council and the James W. Gibbons Fourth Degree Assembly. He was a member of the American Postal Workers Union, KPERS and the Kans. Assoc. of Public Employees. He looked forward each year to Fiesta Mexicana and being of service to his church. He was a devoted fan of Yankees baseball, Alabama football and Kentucky basketball. He was an avid walker and loved his pets. Also surviving are his sons, Dominic Adame and his wife, Theresa Martin Adame and Carlos Lupercio; daughter, Rosanne Adame; and grandchildren, Rachel and Lisa Adame. Robert was the youngest of all his siblings, two sisters and five brothers, who all preceded him in death. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wed. at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Rd, Topeka KS 66614, where a Knights of Columbus rosary and 4th Degree Chalice Ceremony will be at 5:30 p.m. and a parish rosary and prayer service will be prayed at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thurs. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to Hayden High School and Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Online condolences may be sent to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. ___________ 09 Sep 2009 Norman Wendell Allison MELVERN- Norman Wendell Allison, 92, passed away on Friday, September 4, 2009 in Osage City. Funeral services for Wendell will be at 3:00pm on Tuesday, September 8, 2009 at the Melvern United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends from 5:00-6:00pm on Monday at the Feltner Funeral Home in Lyndon. Burial will be in Melvern Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Melvern Community Center or the Marais des Cygnes Valley School and sent in care of Feltner Funeral Home. ___________ 25 Sep 2009 Stephanie R. Conway Alfrey Stephanie R. Conway Alfrey, 30, of Mayetta passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2009. She was born Feb. 8, 1979 at Topeka the daughter of Steven Conway and Janet Mattox Conway. She was raised in Topeka and graduated from Topeka High in 1998. She had worked for Topeka Sheltered Living several years. She was most recently a stay-at-home mom, being active in Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, her kids sports and their daily lives. She was married to her long-time companion, James Alfrey on Feb. 1, 2008 in Topeka. James survives at their home in Mayetta; her children, Daniel, Dalton and Taylor Alfrey of the home; her mom, Janet Martin and her husband Robert of Mayetta; her dad, Steven Conway and wife Evelyn of Topeka; brothers, Steve Conway of Rossville, and Chris Conway of Auburn; grandmother, Patricia Mattox of Topeka. Family visitation will be held at the Davidson Funeral Home in Topeka from 6-8 p.m. on Friday evening. Cremation will follow the visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to the Stephanie Alfrey Childrens Memorial fund and sent in care of Kaw Valley Bank, 4700 NW Hunters Ridge Circle, Topeka, KS 66618. ___________ 01 Oct 2009 Larry Tate Adams, Jr. Larry Tate Adams, JR passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2009. Survivors include his mother, Christine Artzer; father, Larry Adams, SR; brother, Joe Adams of CO; and a sister, Sarah Artzer. Memorial services are not being held at this time. ___________ 04 Oct 2009 Carmen R. Acosta Carmen R. Acosta, 88, of Topeka, passed away Friday, October 2, 2009 surrounded by his family at his home. He was born August 13, 1921 in Winifred, KS the son of Edmundo and Adliada (Rodriguez) Acosta. Carmen served in the United States Army from 1942 to 1945. He received the following medals, American Theatre Campaign, EAME Campaign with five bronze stars, Good Conduct, and WW II Victory. On October 9, 1998 he received a medal for the Battle of Normandy. Carmen served for God and our country. Carmen was a nurses aide at the Colmery ONeil Veterans Administration Hospital before he retired in 1976 after thirty-two years. He lived his life to the fullest, enjoying traveling, fishing, hunting, being outdoors, dancing, playing games, partying and having a great time with his family. Carmen was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and Philip Billard Post #1650 of the VFW. He was married to Rose Luna on September 3, 1949 in Topeka. They recently celebrated their sixtieth wedding anniversary. She survives. Other survivors include, two sons Arthur Acosta (Eleanor) and Edmundo Acosta (Martha) all of Topeka, and three daughters, Julia Viera of Columbus, GA, Rosemary Rodriguez (Tom) of Orlando, FL and Anna Munoz (Eulalio) of Topeka. Seventeen grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren also survive. Carmen was preceded in death by his parents, his seven brothers and two sisters and one grandson Emiliano Rodriguez. Carmen will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home where a rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery with military honors provided by a Ft. Riley honor guard. Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church or Catholic Community Hospice and sent in care of the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Avenue, 66603. Online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com. - - - Mary Jean (Zanotti) Ambrosio Mary Jean (Zanotti) Ambrosio, 101 years young, passed away on September 24, 2009 with her family in Norfolk, Virginia. She was born February 20, 1908 in the Pine Run area of Allegheny Township, Pennsylvania, the daughter of John and Frances Cuffia Zanotti. Her parents came to the United States from Northern Italy (Piemontesi). Mrs. Ambrosio was associated with the Sacred Heart and Most Pure Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Churches. She was an avid reader and loved gardening. Mrs. Ambrosio enjoyed playing cards with the ladies at the First Christian Apartments. She is predeceased by her loving husband, Frank Anthony Ambrosio and five sisters. Survivors include two sons, John Ambrosio of Topeka, Kansas and Joseph F. Ambrosio of Norfolk, Virginia, five grandchildren, Keri, Michael, Brooke, James, David, a great granddaughter, and a niece Frances Borello Matuscin. A Memorial Mass will be held at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 7, 2009 at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com. ___________ 06 Oct 2009 Genzo Akagi Genzo Akagi, 80, Ulysses, died Friday, October 02, 2009 at Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital. He was born January 8, 1929 in Crowley, Colorado to Ihachi and Mika Akagi. He was a graduate of Crowley High School. He served as a proud United States Air Force veteran from 1951 to 1955. On October 3, 1954 he married the love of his life, Lillian Kido. She preceded him in death in 2005. Survivors include four sons: Mark of Grantville, Kansas, Don and Teresa of Fort Worth, Texas, Brett and Mary of Maple Grove, Minnesota, Greg and Lisa of Lawrence, Kansas; two sisters: Asano Quarne of Crowley, Colorado, Sue Nagamoto of Richland, Washington; one brother, Kaku Akagi of Caldwell, Idaho; and five grandchildren: Ryan, Taylor, Kyler, Cameron, and Sarah. Genzo is preceded in death by two brothers, Katashi and Shig; and one sister Ayu. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 07, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Country View Baptist Church in Ulysses with Reverend Sam Bynum officiating. Friends may call Tuesday, October 06, from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Garnand Funeral Home in Ulysses. Internment will follow at the Ulysses Cemetery in Ulysses, Kansas with military rites conducted by Dexter D. Harbour American Legion Post #79. Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the Genzo and Lillian Akagi Education Scholarship Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880. ___________ 24 Oct 2009 Angel Lee Alvarez Exciting moments of pregnancy have turned to sorrow and heartfelt loss with the death of our son, Angel Lee Alvarez on October 22, 2009. His family members included his parents, Adrian Alvarez and ShayLee Corbett, an older brother, Ace Alvarez, grandparents, Kelly Corbett, Maria and Alberto Alvarez, great-grandparents, Victor and Marea Allen, and numerous aunts and uncles. Graveside services will be held Monday at Prairie Home Cemetery. Penwell-Gable Mid Town Chapel is assisting the family. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGableTopeka.com. ___________ 28 Nov 2009 Kenneth P. Akins, Sr. Kenneth P. Akins, Sr., 82, of Topeka, died on Wednesday, November 25, 2009 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born in August of 1927 in Lyndon, Kansas the son of Ernest and Mamie Davis Akins. He drove for Santa Fe Trailways for over 30 years before retiring in the early 1980s. Ken enjoyed spending time at the Chick-a-Dee Caf in his later years. He was an avid K-State football and basketball fan. He served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. He is survived by his son Kenneth P. Akins, Jr. and wife Ruth of Topeka; Richard Akins of Enfield, NH and Stanley Akins of Salina; one sister, Ernesta Peggy Post of Topeka; five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Mr. Akins was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and one sister who died in infancy. Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Mt. Hope Cemetery Mausoleum, with Rev. Hank Nelson of Topeka Bible Church officiating. Military honors will be conducted by the United States Marine Corps Reserve Unit from Topeka. Memorial contributions may be sent to the American Kidney Fund in care of Davidson Funeral Home, 1035 N. Kansas Ave., Topeka, KS 66608. ___________ 04 Dec 2009 Karen A. Acord Mrs. Karen A. Acord, 69, of Topeka, KS passed away December 1, 2009 at the Midland Hospice House. She was born in Topeka on November 8, 1940 to David and Norma Keller. Mrs. Acord graduated from Topeka High School in 1958, and graduated Kansas University Nursing School in 1962. She practiced nursing for her entire 47 year career, the final 20 of which were spent working at Dr. Laccheo's office in Topeka. She enjoyed playing bridge, social sorority group functions, and traveling with family and friends. On May 23, 1970, she was married to James L. Acord, deceased 2001. She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Eurlene Domingo. She is survived by: one son, Michael J. R. Acord, one step-daughter, Shelly L. Acord, one nephew, David R. Domingo, one great-nephew, Daniel J. Domingo, and one grandson, James W. Acord, all of Topeka. Mrs. Acord will lie in state at Penwell-Gabel Midtown Chapel in Topeka on Sunday, December 6, 2009 from 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Visitation will be from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Funeral services will be held Monday, December 7, at 1:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Topeka with burial to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 2141 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 7000, El Segundo, CA 90245. Online donations can be made at www.pancan.org. To leave a special message for the family online, please visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 07 Dec 2009 Virginia Diane Abernathy Virginia Diane Abernathy died Tues. Nov. 10, 2009 at her home in Topeka. She Was born February 11, 1958 in New Orleans, La. to Carma J. Springwater who since has passed and John Abernathy Jeffery, W. Va. She Worked for the State of Kansas for a number of years and enjoyed gardening. Survivors include her life companion Wade Fernald, Topeka, and son Nathan Hart Abernathy, Topeka. Siblings John Abernathy, Wichita, Connie Abernathy, Scranton, Nancy Abernathy, Emporia, Toby Abernathy, Stilwell, OK. and Clay Dotson, Wichita. She was preceded in death by her stepfather Crawford Springwater, Mother, sisters Bonnie Sparrow and Shelly Abernathy. Memorial will be Thursday, Dec. 17th at Chick-A-Dee Cafe, 3036 SE 6th Ave at 5:00 p.m. in Topeka. Contributions can be made to Celebrate Recovery, First Baptist Church, 1912 SW Gage, Topeka, KS 66604. Virginia Abernathy ___________ 20 Dec 2009 Helen Lucille Abels CLAY CENTER- Helen Lucille Abels, 89 died December 19, 2009. Graveside services will be Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at 10:00 AM at the Idana Cemetery in Idana, Kansas. She is survived by her husband, Wilfred Abels, Clay Center, KS. Memorial contributions to the Clay Center United Methodist Church or the Clay County Historical Society c/o the funeral home. - - - Norma Jean Allen PAXICO- Norma Jean Allen, 80, of Paxico, Kansas, died Thursday, December 17, 2009 at the Valley Vista Good Samaritan Center in Wamego. She was born June 4, 1929, in rural Wells Creek, KS, the daughter of Albert and Laura Beasterfeld Pageler. She served for many years as the head cook for the Paxico elementary school. She married Roy Duke Allen on September 8, 1947. He preceded her in death on June 27, 1991. She is survived by two daughters, Patsy Allen, Topeka, Darla Allen Boyer, Topeka; son, Gary Allen, Paxico; long-time companion, Harold Soelter, Wamego; sister, Nadine Habel, Marysville; brother, Eugene Pageler, Laclede; son-in-law, Brady Walker; 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death a daughter, Nyla Akins-Walker and son, Kirby Allen. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 22, 2009, at Wells Creek Immanuel Faith Community Church. She will lie-in-state starting at 2:00 p.m. on Monday at Campanella-Evans Mortuary in Wamego, where the family will greet friends from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Online condolences may be made at www.campanellafuneral.com. ___________ 22 Dec 2009 Vicki L. Adam Vicki L. Adam, 53, of Topeka, died December 20, 2009 at Stormont-Vail Hospital. She was born in Akron, Ohio on September 9, 1956 the daughter of Jack and Evelyn (Thorne) Powers. Vicki was a homemaker. She loved spending time with her family and grandchildren. Vicki loved nature and all animals. She is survived by her children: David Coon of Akron, Ohio, Dawn Renee Coon, Tiffany Kristen Coon and J.P. Inherst all of Topeka, and two grandchildren, Christian and Nathaniel. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. She was cremated. Inurnment will be held later in Akron, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made to the Vicki Adam Memorial Fund and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66603. Online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com. - - - Bertha May (Bert) Allen Bertha May (Bert) Allen, 86, formerly of Topeka, passed away on December 17, 2009 in Dallas, Texas. She was born on May 17, 1923 in Kalispell, Montana to the late Arthur and Mabel Mingle Simon. She worked with her husband John O. (Jack) Allen at Allen Air Park in Topeka. Mrs. Allen was an early participant as a volunteer and remained active for many years at the Shawnee County Association for Retarded Children which is today known as the Topeka Association for Retarded Citizens (TARC). She was passionate about her work there which included time serving as president of the Association. She received several honors for her devotion and contributions to TARC. Mrs. Allen was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John; daughters, Hope Allen and Janice Lening; a sister, Lydia Ann Alkire and a brother, Arthur Simon. She is survived by her children, son, Stephen H. Allen and wife, Becky of Houston; daughters, Diane Allen of Dallas; and Leslie J. Allen also of Dallas; Grandchildren, Brooke Lening White, Chad Allen Lening, Bradley Benjamin Allen, Ryan Haley Allen, and Stephen Chase Allen; 1 Great Grandson, Logan Matthew White; she is also survived by her brother, Raymond C. Simon of Sheridan, Wyoming. The family will Celebrate her Life in a Private Service. ___________ 23 Dec 2009 Carol Rae Ahlvers Carol Rae Ahlvers, age 67, of Williamsburg, Kansas, died Monday, December 21, 2009, at Village Manor Nursing Home in Ottawa, Kansas. She was born on Monday, December 29, 1941, in Dunlap, Kansas. She was the daughter of Rupert I. Doc and Sallie (Miller) Pickett. She grew up in Americus, moving to Williamsburg around 1967. Carol graduated from Americus High School with the class of 1959. She was a telephone operator for Southwestern Bell, and later, AT&T, for thirty years, retiring in 1991. She was a member of Homewood Christian Community Church, where she served as treasurer for many years. On Saturday, June 2, 1962, Carol was united in marriage with Larry Ahlvers in Americus, Kansas. He survives of their home. She is also survived by two Daughters-Bonnie Raduzycki and her husband, Rob, of Lees Summit, Missouri, Michelle McClain and her husband, Kelly, of Gilbert, Arizona, two Brothers-Duane Pickett and his wife, Iris, of Fremont, California, Harold Pickett and his wife, Diane, of Webster, New York, Sister-Karen Short and her husband, Lewis, of Emporia, Kansas, four grandchildren Kristen Raduzycki, Eric Raduzycki, Jordan McClain, Kyle McClain. She is preceded in death by her parents. Funeral services will be held from the Dengel & Son Mortuary in Ottawa at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, December 28, 2009. Mrs. Ahlvers will lie in state at the Dengel & Son Mortuary after 2:00 Sunday afternoon, where the family will meet with friends 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Sunday evening. Family and friends will meet at Glenwood Cemetery in Glen Elder, Kansas, at 3:00 Monday afternoon for graveside services. The family suggests memorial contributions to Homewood Christian Community Church, c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family through dengelmortuary@sbcglobal.net. - - - Harold E. Alfers Harold E. Alfers, Wichita, KS, 89 years of age, died December 20th. Harold grew up on a farm near Troy, KS, in Doniphan County. He married Catherine Helmstetter and they farmed near the family farm, later moving to Atchison, KS, Derby, KS and then Wichita, KS. He and Catherine had six children. He worked until retirement for Farmland Insurance. He was a long time volunteer for Meals on Wheels. He and Catherine divorced and he later married Lola Alfers, who is since deceased. Harold is survived by five children; Vickie Ewoldsen, Linwood, KS; Mike Alfers, Haven, KS; Patrick Alfers, Haysville, KS; Curtis Alfers, Wichita, KS; Judy Henry, Oskaloosa, KS; and his first wife Catherine Alfers, Nortonville, KS; 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by a daughter, Jacque Jacobs, Overland Park, KS and his second wife Lola Alfers, Wichita, KS. A memorial service will be held at Saint Benedicts Church, Bendena, KS on Monday, December 28th at 11:00 A.M., with a lunch following. ___________ 24 Dec 2009 Lee Affholder Lee Affholder, 83, of Oketo, KS, died Tuesday, Dec. 22, at his residence. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 26, at the United Methodist Church in Oketo Burial will be in the Oketo Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Kinsley Mortuary. Survivors include his wife, JoAnn; two sons, Rick Affholder and wife Linda of Overland Park, KS, and Terry Affholder and wife Linda of Salina, KS. Last Updated: 05 Mar 2012