The Topeka Capital-Journal & Funeral Home Obituaries *** 2010 *** ___________________ 01 Jan 2010, Friday Wanda June Bergstrom Wanda June Bergstrom, 75, of Berryton, passed away on Sunday, December 27, 2009 at St. Francis Health Center. She was born on May 8, 1934 in Belleville, KS to Harold and Olive (Owens) Everhart. Wanda graduated from Scandia High School. She was a cashier for Harry's IGA in Topeka. On October 21, 1956 she married LaVern C. Bergstrom in Yuba City, CA, he survives. She is also survived by her children, Lawanna Bergstrom of Berryton; Clayton (Dee) Bergstrom of Berryton; Denise L. (Gary) Weixelman of Berryton; Angela (Jay) Bergstrom-Nolan of Topeka; and Cory (Brian) Ginter of Berryton; two brothers, Jimmy (Thelma) Everhart of Colorado and Alan (Rita) Everhart of Nebraska; two sisters, Barbara (Michael) Mosher of Kansas and Jackie (Bud) Sjolander of Kansas; ten grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son Gregory Bergstrom, three brothers and two sisters. Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 4 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. Burial will follow in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Wanda will lie in state after 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 3 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel where the family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Shawnee County Parks & Recreation Foundation, 3137 SE 29th Street, Topeka, KS, 66605 for the girls softball fields at Lake Shawnee. To leave a special message for the family online, please visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. - - - Juanita Hendrix Juanita (Nita) (Hill) Hendrix, 68, Topeka, Kansas, passed away December 28, 2009 at Midland Hospice, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born July 8, 1941 in Burlingame, Kansas to Lee and Hazelle Hill. She graduated from Harveyville High School. Nita worked for the state of Kansas at the Racing and Gaming Commission. She retired in 2003. During retirement, "Nita" especially enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, shopping, and her "Grand dogs, "Doc" and "Holiday". She married Jerry Hendrix in 1962. They divorced in 1979. From their union a daughter, Tammie Kay Hendrix, was born. "Nita" is survived by her daughter, Tammie Hendrix of Topeka, sisters Sharon Kraus, West Plains, Missouri, Mari Ann Carver, Rapid City, South Dakota, brothers John Hill, Eskridge, Kansas, Jim Hill, Lyndon, Kansas, Bill Hill, El Dorado, Kansas and Jack Hill, El Dorado, Kansas. She was preceded in death by a brother, Larry Hill, and her parents, Lee and Hazelle Hill. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m., January 2, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home located at 2801 SW Urish Rd. Memorial contributions may be made in Juanita'a name to be designated at a later date. Online condolences may be sent to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. - - - Barbara Holt-Nix Barbara Holt-Nix, 62, of Salem, OR passed away Dec. 25, 2009. Survived by her husband, John; son, Jim and his wife Amy; granddaughter, Katlen; two brothers, Jerome and Joel; a sister, Jean Daubenstck; and a step-mother, Pauline Holt. She was a 1966 graduate of Seaman High School. She married John in 1968, and later moved to Oregon. Services at Praise Assembly Church, Tues., Jan. 5 at 1:00 p.m. Memorials to Barbara Nix Fund, First Tech Credit Union P.O. Box 6015, Ulali Dr. Keizer, OR 97303. - - - Iverna F. Most ONAGA Iverna F. Most, 89, of Onaga, died Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at the Eastridge Nursing Facility in Centralia. She was born August 21, 1920 at Onaga, the daughter of Frank and Lena Wrosch Ristow. She graduated from Onaga High School in 1940. Iverna was a cook for U.S.D. 322 for twenty-five years, retiring in 1985. She was a member of the First Congregational UCC in Onaga and the Womens Christian Fellowship at the church. She was active at the Onaga Senior Center, having been instrumental in getting the new Senior Center built. Iverna married Melvin M. Most on March 3, 1942 at Duluth. He died July 14, 1996. Survivors include a son, Donald E. Most and wife Rita, Onaga; a daughter, Sharon K. Noel and R. Dale Noel, Onaga; one sister, Audrey Maupin, Osage City; four grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 4th at the First Congregational UCC. Burial will follow in the Onaga Cemetery. Iverna will lie in state after 9:00 a.m. Saturday at the Tessendorf-Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Onaga where family and friends will meet from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. She will also lie in state an hour before service time at the church. Memorials are suggested to the First Congregational UCC or Eastridge Nursing Facility, and may be sent in care of the funeral home, P.O. Box 300, Onaga, 66521. On-line condolences may be made at chapeloaksfuneralhome.com. - - - James Lee Nottingham WICHITA- James Lee Nottingham, 42, Wichita, passed Wed., Dec. 30, 2009, at Stormont-Vail. He was born Feb. 28, 1967, in Topeka, the son of Robert Dale and Sandra Sue (Fisher) Nottingham. He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1975. Jim was employed by Envision of Wichita. He was a member of a Championship Beep-Ball Team. Jim was preceded in death by his father: Robert D. Nottingham; his brother: Ricky D. Nottingham; his grandfather: James R. Nottingham; and his grandmother: Lois Hasse. Surviving are a son: Joshua A. Nottingham of Wichita; 2 daughters: Kelsey M. and Anastasia F. Nottingham both of Scranton; his mother & step-father: Sandra S. and Charles Moore of Topeka; and his fiancee: Rachel Lorei of Wichita. Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM, Mon., Jan. 4, 2010, at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence Ave., Topeka. Private interment in West Lawn Memorial Gardens. Jim will lie in state after 2:00 PM, Sun., at the funeral chapel where the family will receive friends from 3:00 to 4:30 PM on Sun. and 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM on Monday. Memorial contributions may be made to Wichita Beep-Ball. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. _____________________ 02 Jan 2010, Saturday Levi Michael Baros Levi Michael Baros, 55, of Topeka, passed away Friday, January 01, 2010 at Rolling Hills Health Center. He was born December 3, 1954 in Rocky Ford, CO the son of Joe and Agatha Baros. Levi was employed by St. Francis Health Center before he retired. He attended Mater Deis Holy Name Church. Levi is survived by, his companion and care giver Benita Del Toro and her family, Felix (Laura) Del Toro of Hoyt, Michelle (Daniel) Duvalier of Topeka, Connie (Tom Wilson) Del Toro of Topeka, LaVon (Travis) Wilson of Berryton, LaShell (Isaac) Jones of Topeka and their children, William, Jennifer, Amanda, D. J., Jeffrey, Angel, Brianna, Isley, Anjalique and Azaria. A brother Phillip Baros of Rocky Ford, CO and two sisters, Theresa Baros of Oklahoma City, OK and Viola Baros of Pueblo CO also survive. Levi will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Sunday at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home where the family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com. - - - Minnie Marie Caulk Minnie Marie Caulk, 102, formerly of Auburn, went to be with her Lord on Jan. 1, 2010, at Aldersgate Village. She was born May 1, 1907, in Atchison County, to Fred and Katie Geer. Her early school days were in Hoisington and she graduated from Auburn High School in 1924. Marie married Robert LeRoy Caulk on Dec. 22, 1934, in Topeka. He preceded her in death on Sept. 10, 1992. She is survived by her daughters: Roberta (Clarence) Smith, Dona Caulk, and Laura Brown, all of Topeka; grandchildren: Steve (Mary) Shipps, Mike (Angela) Chandler, Scott (Mary) Smith, Danny (Becky) Smith, Chris Greywolf, and Heather (Forrest) Jackson; 16 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM, Mon., Jan. 4, 2010, at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence Ave. Interment in West Lawn Memorial Gardens. Minnie Marie will lie in state after 1:00 PM, Sun., at the funeral chapel where the family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands Humane Society, 2625 NW Rochester Road, Topeka, KS 66617 or American Diabetes Association , 837 South Hillside, Wichita, KS 67211. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. - - - Robert S. "Bob" Crow Robert Bob S. Crow, age 73, of Topeka passed away Friday, January 1, 2010 at his home with his family by his side. Bob was born October 13, 1936 in Obdyke, Illinois the son of John and Florence Phillips Crow. He graduated from Mt. Vernon Township High School in 1955. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 1959. He married Lorraine Wollen April 4, 1959 in Olathe. He worked at Goodyear Tire & Rubber in Topeka for over 32 years from 1966 - 1998 where he was a member of the Rubber Workers Local #307 Union. He also worked as a contract mail hauler from 1987 to 1997. He is survived by two daughters, Laura Lewis and her husband Layton of Meriden and Renae Stanley and her husband Jerry of Berryton; a son, John Crow and his wife, Georgianne of Topeka; 11 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren and 2 step great grandchildren. Bob will lie in state from 1:00 8:00 p.m. Sunday at the Davidson Funeral Home with visitation services from 6:00 8:00 p.m. Inurment services will be held this spring. Memorials may be made to the Heart of America Hospice or the American Cancer Society. - - - Delbert Eugene Haid Delbert Eugene Haid, 75, passed away Dec. 30, 2009 at Topeka Community Healthcare Center. Born Feb. 10, 1933 in Wamego, KS, he was a son of the late John Wesley and Emily Martha Fields Haid. He served as a cook on the USS Bennington The Blue Ghost in the US Navy retiring after 28 years. He received a Korean Service Medal and China Service Medal. Then he worked for the State of Kansas for 20 years and also with the Fleet Reserve Unit. His memberships included: American Legion Post #400; VFW#1650; and the Moose Lodge, all of Topeka. On Jan. 16, 1959, he married Frances Bard Haid. She passed away Oct. 17, 2000. Two brothers, John and Ronald, also preceded him in death. Survivors include: sister-in-law, Johanna Brinkman, Lancaster, PA; brothers, Elton, Lawrence, KS, Glenn, Meriden, KS, Clyde, Topeka; sisters, Edna DeMotti, Bonnersprings, KS, Elsie Kopp, Donna Kopp, both Topeka; several nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed. Graveside service: 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010, Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery, 1916 Lincoln Hwy East, Lancaster, PA. Omit flowers. Memorials welcomed to the Topeka Moose Lodge. Furmans Leola, PA. FurmanFuneralHome.com. - - - Lawrence Shump SABETHA- Lawrence Shump, age 92, of Sabetha passed away Friday, January 1, 2010. Mass of Christian burial will be Monday, January 4, 2010 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sabetha at 1:00 p.m. A visitation will be held from 5 - 7 p.m. at the church with a parish rosary recited at 6:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to the Sabetha Community Hospital or the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary in Sabetha. www.popkessmortuaries.com. ___________________ 03 Jan 2010, Sunday Lola Akerstrom Lola M. Akerstrom, 101, passed away January 1, 2010. Lola was born October 7, 1908 in Alma, KS the daughter of William and Pearl Davis Kraus. She spent her childhood in the Alma, KS area. She married John R. Akerstrom and they resided in Topeka until retirement. After retirement they resided in Ozawkie for several years until Johns death. Lola returned to Topeka in 1994. Survivors include her daughter, Karen Senogles, Raleigh, NC; sons, Mick (Liz) Akerstrom, Larry (Karen) Akerstrom, both of Topeka; many grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband; children, Shirley Jean, Carolee, Jerry and Bob; grandchild, Brad Akerstrom; brothers, Floyd (Doris) Kraus, Ivan (Dorothy) Kraus; sisters, Vera (Tom) Comfort, Clarice Bomgartner French, and Evelyn Lew. Lola enjoyed gardening, knitting, crocheting, sewing and cooking for her church activities. Visitation will be held Wednesday, January 6, 2010 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home. Celebration of Lolas 101 years will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mt Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Peggy Kelly House, 1800 SW Fairmont Rd., Topeka, KS 66604. Online condolences may made to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. ___________ 09 Jan 2010 Marsha D. Adinolfi COFFEYVILLE- Marsha Dianne Adinolfi was born on August 2, 1943 to Robert Earl Jack Orsbern and Gladys Lucille Roeser in Manhattan, Kansas. She was raised by her paternal grandparents, Claude and Amanda Magnolia Orsbern, in Manhattan after her parents divorced. She graduated from Manhattan High School in 1961 and attended the Colorado Womens College (CWC) in Denver for a year and a half. There she met cadet Jerry Adinolfi at the U.S. Air force Academy in Colorado Springs and they were married at St. Pauls Episcopal Church in Manhattan, Kansas on June 8, 1963. Marsha followed Jerry in his 30-year Air Force career throughout the continental United States and overseas as a homemaker and Air Force wife. She continued serving as a Pastors wife for 14 years when Jerry became an Episcopal priest following retirement from the Air Force. She had two children, Marcus Adinolfi of Overland Park, Kansas who was born in Boston, Massachusetts in 1965 and Christina Aldrich of Coffeyville, Kansas who was born in Agana, Guam. In turn, she has seven grandchildren: Domenick and Sofia Adinolfi; Andrew and Kristin Stanley and Anthony Aldrich; and Stephen and Nicholas Erickson through Marks second marriage. She leaves her husband of 46 years, Father Jerry Adinolfi of Coffeyville; daughter Tina Aldrich and her two sons Andrew and Tony of Coffeyville and daughter Kristinof Parsons; son Mark Adinolfi and wife Karen and his son Domenick and daughter Sofia, and her sons Stephen and Nickolas, all of Overland Park; a half sister, Leslie Thomas of Manhattan and her family; a cousin Kristin Markel of Dodge City and her husband Charles. She was preceded in death by her parents Jack Orsbern and Gladys Thomas, her step-parents Helen Orsbern and Walter Thomas, a half-brother John Thomas, her brother-in-law John Adinolfi, her mother and father-in-law Rose and Jerry Adinolfi, and her Aunt Helen Guertner and husband Gene of Dodge City. Marsha spent most of her adult life as a paraplegic in a wheelchair as a result of Tuberculosis Meningitis in 1964, yet this did not deter her from living a full and happy life. Marsha loved to water color and completed a wonderful series of Native Americans paintings that are proudly displayed at the Coffeyville Title and Abstract Company at the corner of 8th and Maple. She was an active member of St. Pauls Episcopal Church in Coffeyville and for years sung in choirs at various Episcopal and Air Force base chapels where she also taught Sunday school classes. Marsha loved to cook in later years and was a solid fan of TVs Iron Chef. She had tons of cookbooks at home, some with her own recipes. Marsha enjoyed playing cards with her friends and also worked with the Bluebirds, Brownies, and Girl Scouts when Tina was young. She loved the two cruises she went on in the eastern and western Caribbean. Memorial gifts may be sent in her name to St. Pauls Episcopal Church, 613 Elm Street, Coffeyville, KS 67337. Marsha has been cremated and a service of the Burial Office Rite II with Holy Communion will be held at St. Pauls Episcopal Church on Thursday, January 14, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. The Rt. Rev. Dean Elliott Wolfe, Bishop of Kansas, will officiate and preach the homily. The committal will be held at the Veterans Pavilion immediately following the service. "She fought the good fight, she finished the race, she kept the faith. ___________ 19 Jan 2010 George L. Akin George L. Akin, 64, died Sunday Jan. 17, 2010 at his home in Topeka, KS after a short illness. He was born in Visala, CA, June 29, 1945 and moved to Topeka in 1983. He is survived by daughter Deborah Crumpler, Kettle Falls, WA, son Kristopher Akin, Topeka, ex-wife Rene Akin, Topeka, grandchildren Michael and Dakota Crumpler, Kettle Falls, WA, Lynsey, Cartier and Kurtice Akin, Topeka, mother Vivian Akin, Topeka, sister Lucille Hacker, Exeter, CA, brothers Herman Akin, Visalia, CA and Leroy Akin, Topeka. He is preceded in death by grandson Jason Lewis, father Elmer Akin, brother Billy Joe Akin, sister Dixie Lee Hanna and Glenda Jean Boswell. A private family cremation services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Heart of America Hospice. He was a beloved Son, Brother, Husband and Father. He will be missed. ___________ 25 Jan 2010 LaVerne Allen JUNCTION CITY- Funeral services for LaVerne Allen, 91, of Junction City will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, January 28, 2010 at the Episcopal Church of the Covenant with Father Dale Plummer officiating. Burial will follow at Dwight Cemetery, Dwight, KS. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Penwell-Gabel Mass-Hinitt Chapel, 805 Caroline Avenue, Junction City, Kansas, the family will be present from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Mrs. Allen passed away at Geary Community Hospital on January 22, 2010. **To leave a special online message for the family, visit: www.PenwellGabelJunctionCity.com** ___________ 10 Feb 2010 (Published at www.piperfuneralhome.com) Bobby L. Gentry Rossville-Bobby L. Gentry, 82, passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at the Midland Hospice House in Topeka. He was born August 25, 1927 at rural Simpson, the son of James Roy and Melba Marguerite Huffman Gentry. He grew up in the Simpson community and graduated from high school there. He served in the US Army during the Korean War. Mr. Gentry had been a farmer in the Rossville community since 1947. He was a member of the Rossville United Methodist Church. He also was a 50 year member of Lake Lodge No. 50, Silver Lake. He was a member of the Arab Temple in Topeka and the Kaw Valley Shrine Club. Mr. Gentry was a charter member of Jimmie Lillard Post No.31 of the American Legion in Rossville. He was united in marriage to Linda Pallister Fenis on December 14, 1985. She survives of the home. Other survivors include a son, James (Shari) Gentry, Rossville; two daughters, Jo Anna (Dave) Cowser, Topeka and Teresa (Kerry) Lacock, McCracken; a brother, Billy (Beverly) Gentry, Rossville; two sisters, Betty Dick and Barbara (Pete) Dudney, all of Rossville; aunts, Elizabeth Gentry, Beloit, and June Wilkins and Marjorie Williams both of Albany, GA; grandchildren, Jacob, Derek and Trent Gentry, Krew, Keera and Kelton Lacock and D.J. Cowser; many nieces and nephews along with friends. Bobby will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Funeral services will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, February 13, 2010 at the Rossville United Methodist Church, where a Masonic service conducted by Lake Lodge No 50 will be held. Interment with military graveside services by Jimmie Lillard Post No.31 of the American Legion will be in the Rossville Cemetery. Mr. Gentry will lie in state after 3:00 P.M. Friday, February 12, 2010 at the church where family will receive friends from 6:30 until 8:00 P.M. Memorial contributions may be made to the Rossville United Methodist Church, Rossville Senior Center or Midland Respite Care and sent in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple, St. Marys, Kansas 66536. Services Saturday February 13, 2010, 10:00 AM at Rossville United Methodist Church ___________ 14 Feb 2010 (Published at www.piperfuneralhome.com) Jim Wilson Silver Lake-Jim Wilson, a non-smoker, died of lung & brain cancer at the age of 59 on February 13, 2010 at his home with his family by his side. He was born August 14, 1950 at Church, (Wetzel County) West Virginia the son of Charles L. and Viola F. Shinault Wilson. He grew up in the Silver Lake community and graduated from Silver Lake High School in 1968, he attended Washburn University, Central Missouri State, Dallas Baptist College, Johnson County Community College, Kaw Area Vo-Tech, and was an Army Reserve Veteran 1968-1974. He was last employed at Kan-Equip in Topeka. Jim loved playing golf, loved people and enjoyed raising Angus cattle in the local area. Jim was preceded in death by his mother Viola F. “Vi” Wilson on November 27, 2006. Surviving are his three children, Carrie Pettiecord , Kearney, MO, James (Aaron) Wilson, Lake Hamilton, FL, Jackie Castlen, Jacksonville, FL; his father, Charles Wilson, Silver Lake; two brothers, Butch Anderson, D’Iberville, MS, and Dwain Wilson Emmett: a sister Terri Bahret, Silver Lake; and 6grandchildren and 3 step grandchildren. Memorial services will be held at 6:00 P.M. Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Silver Lake. Inurnment will be at a later date in the Silver Lake Cemetery. In lieu of flowers he and the family request donations in his memory be made to the First Baptist Church in Silver Lake or for an autism fund that will be set up to help those families who are struggling to pay for the therapies their children need. His beloved grandson is struggling with autism and he realizes there are many out there in the same situation fighting for their children but don't have the financial resources to do so. Memorials may be sent to Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple St, St. Marys, Kansas 66536. ___________ 14 Feb 2010 David W. Luttig Havensville- David W. “Dave” Luttig, 52, died late Saturday, February 13, 2010 at the Onaga Community Hospital. He was born October 6, 1957 at Onaga, the son of G. Dale and Carol J. Phillips Luttig. He was raised in the Emmett community and graduated from St. Marys High School in 1975. Dave was a welder. He was a member of the N.R.A. and had attended the Havensville Christian Church. He was preceded in death by his father G. Dale Luttig on September 15, 2009 and an infant sister Judith on May 16, 1967. Survivors include his mother, Carol Luttig, Emmett; his sister, Cathy (Denny) Clayton, Rossville; a niece, Amanda Clayton, Guam and a great niece, Chloe; his best friend and companion, Debbie Mapes, Havensville and her family, Sarah (Adam) Krause, Topeka, Diana (Scott) Shankland and their daughter Airaden, and Joshua Mapes all of Havensville; aunts, uncles and cousins. Memorial services will be at 10:00 A.M. Monday, February 22, 2010 at Piper Funeral Home in St. Marys. Inurnment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Emmett. The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 21, 2010 at the funeral home from 3:00 until 5:00 P.M. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association and sent in care of the funeral home. ___________ 21 Feb 2010 Harold L. Adams Harold L. Adams, also known as Len Adams, passed away Feb. 19, 2010. There will be a gathering to celebrate his life at Racks and Reels, Denison, KS from 1:30 to 4:30, February 24. ___________ 01 Mar 2010 (Published at www.piperfuneralhome.com) Joseph Christopher Nickerson St. Marys- Joseph Christopher Nickerson, 93, passed away Sunday, February 28, 2010 at the Community Hospital in St. Marys. He was born October 7, 1916 at Kearns, Colorado, the son of John Frank and Filomena Saiz Nickerson. He grew up in Colorado and had proudly served in the United States Army during WWII in the European Theatre. Mr. Nickerson was a welder and had worked for EMICO Mining & Engineering Company for many years living in Kearns, UT.and moved to St. Marys in 1999. Mr. Nickerson had a love of music, playing the violin, guitar and piano. He was a luthier. Family Unity was the utmost importance to him. “Anybody that knew our dad knew what kind of man he was.” On August 16, 1946 he was united in marriage to Rebecca Torres. She survives. Other survivors include three sons, Henry (Therese) Espinosa, Riverdale, UT, Anthony (Dianne) Nickerson, and Julius Nickerson all of St. Marys; two daughters, Rosalinda (Gary) Fox, Fruit Heights, UT, and Dahlia Swehla, St. Marys; three brothers, David (Virginia) Nickerson and Frank (Elsie) Nickerson all of Layton, UT, and Orlando (Rosemary) Nickerson, St. George, UT; a sister Ida Cates, St. George, UT; 13 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. Requiem Mass will be 10:30 A.M. Saturday, March 6, 2010 at Assumption Chapel in St. Marys. Interment will be in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery, St. Marys where Military Graveside services will be conducted by a detail team from Ft. Riley. Mr. Nickerson will lie in state from 9:00 A.M.until 4:00 P.M.Friday, March 5, 2010 at Piper Funeral Home in St. Marys and also from 7:00 until 9:00 P.M. A Rosary will be recited at 5:00 P.M. Friday, March 5, 2010 at Assumption Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to Memorial donations may be made to Kansas Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired or Assumption Chapel Building Fund and sent in care of the funeral home. ___________ 10 Mar 2010 Maxine Leola (Burnett) Allen Maxine Leola (Burnett) Allen, 83, of 76 Terrace Lane, Springfield, MA, was a beautiful angel who left us far too soon. Born in Topeka, Kansas, the daughter of the former President of the Topeka Chapter NAACP, the late McKinley L. Burnett and the late Lena L. (Jones) Burnett, she departed the earth on Sunday, February 21, 2010, at Mercy Medical Center in Springfield. Maxine was a graduate of Topeka High School and the Madam Walker Beauty School in Kansas City, MO. She became a resident of Springfield 56 years ago, worked for Buxton Company and Springfield Wire, and retired in 1991 from the Springfield Dept. of Public Welfare after 19 years of service. Pre-deceased by a brother Malcolm L. Burnett, she leaves behind her loving husband of 56 years, Kenneth E. Allen who has been her best friend since the fifth grade; her daughter Marla L. (Allen) Miller (and husband, Martin) of Springfield, a grandaughter Mari L. (Miller) Graves (and husband, Robert Graves) of Willow Grove, PA; two grandsons, Myles L. & Cameron L. Miller of Springfield; two sisters, Marcella L. (Burnett) Bass of Sewell, NJ and Maurita L. (Burnett) Davis of Portland, OR; a brother, Marquis L. Burnett of Topeka, KS; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. She will be missed everyday and holds a very special place in our hearts. There will be no formal services. - - - (Published at www.piperfuneralhome.com) Nona J. Droegemeier Rossville-Nona J. Droegemeier, 92, passed away Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at her home in Rossville. She was born May 1, 1917 at Kingman, the daughter of Frank and Winifred Stearns Ross. She grew up in the Kingman community and graduated from Kingman High School. Mrs. Droegemeier was a member of the Rossville Christian Church. She was married to Harrison “Harry” Smith on December 13, 1938 at Kingman. He died March 11, 2006, she was also preceded in death by a son Christopher Kent Smith. On September 21, 2006 she married Charles “Chuck” Droegemeier at Rossville. He survives of the home. Other survivors include her son, Galen V. Smith, Lawrence; a sister, Phyllis Costner, Kingman; and grandchildren, Amanda Martinez and Craig Smith. Funeral services will be at 10:00 A.M. Friday, March 12, 2010 at the Rossville Christian Church. Interment will be in the Rossville Cemetery. Mrs. Droegemeier will lie in state one hour before service time at the church on Friday. Memorial contributions may be made to the Rossville Senior Center and sent in care of Piper Funeral Chapel, P.O. Box 642, Rossville, Kansas 66533. Funeral Services Friday March 12, 2010, 10:00 AM at Rossville Christian Church Mrs. Droegemeier will lie in state one hour before service time at the church on Friday. ___________ 16 Mar 2010 Janie L. Alexander Janie L. Alexander, 73, of Topeka, passed away on Sunday, March 14, 2010 at a Topeka hospital. She was born on August 14, 1936 in DeFuniak Springs, FL, the daughter of James H. and Edith Evans Rhodes. She had resided in Topeka since 1963. She was a member of the Highland Park Southern Baptist Church. Janie married Vincent L. Alexander on June 6, 1959 in DeFuniak Springs, FL. He preceded her in death on March 29, 2003. She was also preceded in death by her siblings; James, Joyce, Pauline, Samuel and David. Survivors include one son; Thomas L. (Karen) Alexander of Topeka; one daughter, Teresa E. (Keith) Fulton of Berryton, five grandchildren; Nicole, Matthew, Danielle, Josh and Justin, her siblings; Janet Slay, JoAnne Leuders, Edith Hall, Frances Evans, Patricia Peters, Gerald Rhodes and Joe Rhodes. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel. Burial will follow in Topeka Cemetery. Janie will lie in state after 3:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home where the family will receive friends from 7:00-8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Highland Park Southern Baptist Church, 820 SE 29th St., Topeka, KS 66605. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 28 Mar 2010 Bob Abbott WICHITA- Abbott, Bob, 77, retired Kansas Supreme Court Justice, died March 23, 2010 in Wichita, Kansas. Justice Abbott was born in Hodgeman County, the youngest child of Jesse Andrew and Ida Fern Abbott. He is survived by Kaye Cummings Abbott, his wife of 53 years; his children, Judge Bryce and Jana Deines-Abbott of Wichita, Robert Bren and Cecilia O'Connor-Abbott of Kansas City, Missouri, Kyle Ann Abbott of Wichita, Jayme and Blake Abbott-Anderson of Salt Lake City, Utah; five grandchildren, Logan Abbott, Caroline Abbott, Reid Abbott, Carter Abbott and Marleigh Anderson. He is also survived by his sister, Alice Bump of Hill City, Kansas; his brother, Keith Abbott of Beaver, Oklahoma, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Wilma Babcock, and brothers, Lester, Lyle, George, Jesse, and Ray. Justice Abbott served the people of Kansas for 26 years as a Supreme Court Justice and as Chief Judge of the Kansas Court of Appeals. He practiced law in Junction City, Kansas until he became the first person appointed to the Court of Appeals when it was re-established in 1977 by Governor Robert Bennett, and he served as its Chief Judge until he was appointed to the Kansas Supreme Court in 1990 by Governor Mike Hayden. As private attorney he proudly represented people from all walks of life and served as the City Attorney for the City of Milford, Kansas, Grandview Plaza, Kansas and others. Justice Abbott graduated from Jetmore High School in 1950. He received his AA degree from Dodge City Junior College in 1952 where he was a three-sport letterman, a BS degree from Emporia State University in 1956, graduated second in his class from Washburn University School of Law in 1960, and received his Masters of Law Degree from the University of Virginia in 1986. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force serving as a navigator aboard a C-124 from 1953-1954. Justice Abbott served as an adjunct professor at the Washburn Law School, teaching Professional Responsibility from 1978 through 1988. He received Distinguished Alumnus Citations from Dodge City Community College, Emporia State University, and Washburn University Law School. While serving the Courts, Justice Abbott wrote over 2,000 opinions and participated in thousands more. He also served as Senior Editor of the Kansas Bar Association Appellate Practice Manual, as Chairman of the Continuing Legal Education Committee from 1970 to 1975, as member of the committee that authors the Pattern Jury Instructions used throughout the State of Kansas, and as a member of the Board of the Directors of the Kansas Bar Foundation. He gave freely of his time to countless community organizations and causes. He will be remembered for many more things from his public life. His family will remember him as their little league coach, hunting and fishing partner, rabid KU football and track fan, mentor and role model. Memorial established with the Kansas Bar Foundation, 1200 SW Harrison, Topeka, KS 66612-1806. Services will be held at Grace Episcopal Cathedral in Topeka, Kansas on April 1, 2010 at 1:00 PM. Downing & Lahey Mortuary West. Tributes may be sent to the family via www.dlwichita.com. ___________ 02 Apr 2010 Jacquelyn Kay Hunter Abels Jacquelyn Kay Hunter Abels, 57, of Topeka passed away on Wednesday afternoon, March 31, 2010 at Midland Hospice House. She was born May 17, 1952 in Topeka the daughter of Claude and Nellie Hunter. Jackie lived in Topeka all her life. She was a home health provider and had worked at Manor Care, Topeka Presbyterian Manor and Advantage Care before her illness. She is preceded in death by her parents, eight sisters and two brothers. Survivors include two sons, Joseph Hunter and Tommy Hunter both of Topeka; four sisters, Betty Taul of Baldwin City, Mary Aldridge in Texas, Jolynn Ginter (Clarence) of Topeka and Donna Roberts (Sonny) of Topeka; a brother, Gary Hunter of Topeka; grandchildren, Hannah Hunter and Preston Hunter both of Topeka and several nieces and nephews. Jackie was cremated. No memorial services are planned. Condolences may be sent to Davidson Funeral Home, 1035 N. Kansas Ave. Topeka, KS 66608. ___________ 13 Apr 2010 Terry Liegh Adkins Terry Liegh Adkins passed on 4-10-2010 at 12:47 am at the Hospice House located at 200 SW Frazier Cir. in Topeka, KS. She was born 3-13-1960 in Lynchburg, VA. and moved to Topeka at the age of 35 where she resided for 17 years. She was the mother of four boys, Tony Adkins (31), Kalub Adkins, (16), Corey Dunn, (17), Philip Olson, (26), one daughter in-law, Laurel Mae Adkins (25), and the grandmother of two, Sierra Marie Adkins (12), and one on the way. Terry spent her last days in the graceful arms of the Lord as she accepted Christ into her heart. May her soul rest in peace with the heavenly Father. Call Tony Adkins at (785)-969-3304 for info. on memorial services. ___________ 18 Apr 2010 Maynard H. Ackerman ST. JOHN, IN- Maynard H. Ackerman, age 81, of St. John IN. formerly of Colorado Springs and Arvada, Colorado went home to be with his Lord on Monday, April 12, 2010. He was a "man of God" who grew in his faith especially in the last years of his life. His love of the Word of God was a source of great comfort and peace to him. He was so thankful for the truth of the Gospel and the hope it provided. It would be his wish for all to search the Scriptures and find the same peace he did. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Doris Ackerman (nee Mahan), two children Cheryl (Dennis) Harvey, Scott (Robin) Ackerman, three grandchildren Amy (Brian) Frahm, Allyson (Adam) McKown, Gabriel Foss, one grandson on the way and three great grandchildren. Brothers and sisters Mary Ellen (Jack) Sumpter, Larry (Nadine) Ackermann, Richard (Helen) Ackermann and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Anton & Emilie Ackermann and brother Kendall Ackermann. A celebration of Maynard's reuniting with the Lord and his loved ones was held on Friday, April 16, 2010 at the Fagen-Miller Funeral Home in St. John, IN. Maynard was a WWII Army veteran and a precision machinist for Rockwell International in Golden, CO. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing and was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. www.fagenmiller.com ___________ 20 Apr 2010 Irene A. Alt Irene A. Alt, 92, Topeka, passed away April 18, 2010. She was married to August A. Alt who preceded her in death on April 23, 1994. She was also preceded by her son, John Alt in July 1996; her daughter, Cynthia (Alt) Hodgson on February 12, 2001; 2 sisters and 2 brothers. She is survived by her granddaughter, Stacy Hodgson-Woodward, Topeka, and three great-grandchildren. She was a member of First Lutheran Church. Services are pending. To leave a message online for the family or to view the full obituary, visit www.dovecremation.com. ___________ 23 Apr 2010 Louise Adams Louise Marie Adams, of Topeka, passed away on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, at Midland Hospice House, in Topeka, at the age of 94. She is survived by three sons, Don Adams of Springfield, MO.; Felix, Jr. and wife, Janice of Wichita; and David and wife, Barbara Adams of Virgil; three daughters, Ellen and husband, Glen Berry of Topeka; Sharon and husband, John Schultze of Ottawa, and Theresa and husband, William Trecek of Topeka; a sister, Gladys Miller of Eureka; 13 grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Felix Adams, Sr., one daughter, Patricia Jean Adams, her parents, two sisters, and one brother. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M., Saturday, April 24, 2010 at Koup Family Funeral Home, in Eureka. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. ___________ 24 Apr 2010 Samuel Kenneth "Sam" Alexander, Jr. Alexander, Jr. Samuel Kenneth Sam Alexander, Jr., 86, died on Friday, April 23, 2010 at his home. Born on October 7, 1923, Sam was a lifelong resident of Topeka. Sam married Carolyn Kline on August 31, 1946, and they celebrated 48 years of marriage before Carolyn passed away on May 8, 1994. Sam is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Ken and Pam Alexander and Kevin and Nancy Alexander of Topeka. He leaves three grandsons; Samuel Kenneth S.K. Alexander, IV of Topeka, Kevin Burnett Alexander, Jr. (Emily) of Stamford, Connecticut and Samuel Scott Alexander (Jacquelyn) of Omaha, Nebraska, and his companion, Liz Stratton. Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Kenneth and Helen Welty Alexander, and his sister, Virginia Alexander Allison. Sam graduated from Topeka High School in 1941. He served in the Army for two and a half years before completing his degree at the University of Kansas in 1947 where he was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity. Sam was President and owner of Alexander Brothers Baking Company. He was a longstanding board member of the W.E. Long Company, an independent baking association. Sam was a member of First Presbyterian Church, served as a director of First National Bank of Topeka and BANK IV of Topeka, a board member and past Chair of Stormont Vail HealthCare and Chairman of the Topeka Chamber of Commerce. Sam enjoyed his many years of membership at the Topeka Country Club where he served on the board and was a past President. Sam will lie in state from 3:00 7:00 PM on Tuesday, April 27th at the Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS 66604, where the family will receive friends from 4:30 6:30 PM. Funeral services will be private. On Wednesday, April 28th, friends and family are invited to a reception from 4:30 7:30 PM at the Topeka Country Club. Sams family wishes to express their deep appreciation to his caregivers, Barbara Hennemann, Olantha Lynn Brown and Ruby Chappell. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sam and Carolyn Alexander Fund at the Topeka Community Foundation, 5431 SW 29th Street, Topeka, KS., 66614. To leave the family a special message, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 09 May 2010 Karen K. Akerstrom Karen K. Akerstrom, 66, passed away, Saturday, May 8, 2010 at Midland Hospice surrounded by family and friends after a courgeous battle with leukemia. Karen was born June 15, 1943 in Horton, KS. She graduated from Washburn Rural High School in 1961. Karen married Larry G. Akerstrom on June 25, 1961 at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church. She managed Meadow Lanes Bowl for many years and also worked right alongside her husband and son in their business, Superior Carpet and Construction. Karen belonged to the Moose Lodge and the American Legion. She enjoyed her Friday night couples golf and Tuesday ladies golf group, bridge group and bowled in many leagues. Karen was proud to be the Christmas Angel at Valeo. Survivors include her husband, Larry; son, Brent Akerstrom (Terry); daughter, Tammy Freed (Curt); brother, Wayne Gerdes; twin sister, Carole Newell; grandchildren, Don, Amber, Scott, Angela Akerstrom, Jordan and Jared Freed; great granddaughter, Ariana Akerstrom and many nieces and nephews; step father, Gene Robinson. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Carl Gerdes and Helen Gerdes Robinson; nephew, Bryan Johnson; in laws, John and Lola Akerstrom. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8p.m Thursday, May 13, 2010 at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish, Topeka, KS 66614. Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Topeka Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Lodge and Valeo Drug and Alcohol Recovery Center, sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. ___________ 12 May 2010 Karen K. Akerstrom Karen K. Akerstrom, 66, passed away, Saturday, May 8, 2010 at Midland Hospice surrounded by family and friends after a courgeous battle with leukemia. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8p.m Thursday, May 13, 2010 at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish, Topeka, KS 66614. Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Topeka Cemetery. Due to construction at 29th and Urish Rd., please approach the funeral home from 21st and Urish Rd. Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Lodge and Valeo Drug and Alcohol Recovery Center, sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. ___________ 20 May 2010 William Leo Allhiser William Leo Allhiser, Topeka, passed away at Aldersgate Village on Sunday, May 16, 2010. He was born August 23, 1932 in Mineral, VA to Robert and Blanche Allhiser. Mr. Allhiser spent 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, and after his retirement from the service spent 27 years as a U.S. Postal worker. His wife, Corinne Cason Allhiser, survives. Two sons, Steve Allhiser of Raymore, Mo., and John Allhiser of Greenwood, Mo., and four grandchildren also survive. He was preceded in death by his son, Jeff Allhiser, in 2007. Midwest Cremation Society, Inc. is assisting the family, and memorial services are pending. ___________ 25 May 2010 Orville G. Abramson Orville G. Abramson, 82, formerly of Holton and Morrill, KS, passed away at his home on December 24, 2009, in Aurora, CO. He was born on May 29, 1927 and raised in Arrington, KS, the son of Earl and Mabel Ernst Abramson. Orville graduated from Effingham High School in 1945. He served in the United States Army during World War II and served in the United States Army Reserve for over twenty years. He retired in 1989 from the Veterans Administration of Denver, CO, as an operating maintenance engineer supervisor. Orville married Darlene Ann Richard on May 21, 1950 in Goff, KS. He is survived by his wife and their three children, Steven M. Abramson, Randall L. Abramson and Deborah A. Poor all of Aurora, CO. Other survivors include a brother, Carson G. Abramson of Hiawatha, KS; 7 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Orville was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Karen S. Shell. Memorial services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 29, 2010 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Orville was cremated and inurnment will be in Netawaka Cemetery. The family will greet friends at the funeral home on Friday evening from 7:00 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to American Heart Association or American Cancer Society c/o Mercer Funeral Home, PO Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family. ___________________ 30 May 2010, Sunday (Published at http://obit.davidsonfuneral.com/obitlist.html) Oscar J. Anderson, Jr. Visitation: Tuesday, Jun. 1, 2010 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Service: Wednesday, Jun. 2, 2010 10:00 am Oscar J. Anderson, Jr. of Oskaloosa, KS passed away on Saturday, May 29, 2010 at his home at Hickory Point. He was born Jan 9, 1928 in Oskaloosa, the son of Oscar J. Anderson, Sr. and Isa Wilkerson Anderson. He was raised in Valley Falls and spent most of his adult life in Topeka. He spent the last 15 years in the Winchester/Oskaloosa area at which time he owned and operated a restaurant on Main Street in Valley Falls. He owned and operated O.J. Anderson Painting and Decorating in Topeka. Oscar loved bluegrass music, often traveling to see someone he enjoyed play. In later years, he even learned to play the fiddle himself. Survivors include his son, Gary Anderson (Chalece) of Olathe; daughter, Donna Tschantz (Mike) of Topeka; grandchildren, Marlyse and Gretchen Anderson and Hanna and John Tschantz of Topeka; sisters, Beulah Bunn and Violet May. Oscar was preceded in death by his wife Bonnie, his parents, and five siblings, Wilbur, T. J., Juanita, Ruby and Frances. ___________ 01 Jun 2010 Debora Debbie Aldridge, 59, Topeka, joined her Father in heaven on Sunday, May 30, 2010. Debbie was born March 5, 1951 in Des Moines, IA, the daughter of Arlie and Elizabeth Olson. She graduated from School of the Osage at Lake Ozark, MO in 1969 and from Missouri Western College at St. Joseph, MO in 1973. She began her teaching career at Helen Davis School in St. Joseph, MO. Debbie then devoted 14 years to raising her children while working as a Vet Tech in the Topeka area. She returned to teaching in 1992 as a Special Education Teacher in the USD-501 school district. She was a member of Hope Lutheran and Prince of Peace Lutheran Church for many years but most recently Fellowship Bible Church. As a lover of nature, Debbie and her family spent many vacations traveling throughout the United States. Debbie married Larry J. Aldridge on December 18, 1976 in Hot Springs, AR. He survives. Other survivors include son, Brandon (Erin) Aldridge; daughter, Ashley (Justin) Rodgers; grandchildren, Kaitlyn Aldridge, Hannah and Grady Rodgers, all of Topeka; and mother, Elizabeth Olson, Osage Beach, MO. She was preceded in death by her father. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 4, 2010 at Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Road. Burial will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Debbie will lie in state at the funeral home after 2:00 p.m. on Thursday and visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Fellowship Bible Church, 6800 SW 10th, Topeka, Kansas 66615. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 02 Jun 2010 Jesse William Adams Jesse William JW Adams, age 67 died Sunday, May 30, 2010 at the VA Medical Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Jesse was born on February 1, 1943 in Topeka, Kansas, the son of James M. and Lucille ( Hasty ) Adams. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Engineering from Heald Engineering College in San Francisco, California. He served in the US Navy with one tour during the Vietnam War. Jesse enjoyed restoring older cars and grandfather clocks. He also loved to spend time with his special grand children. He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his Special Friend Linda Kelsey Wise of Edmond, Oklahoma; sister Carol ( husband LeRoy ) Dick of Blaine, Kansas; brother Harry ( wife Patty ) Adams from Topeka, Kansas. He is also survived by eight special grand children. Paige, Chelsea, Samantha, Savannah, and Steven Clarke of Lebanon, Tennessee; Ella Jane and Grady Reeder of Edmond, Oklahoma and Keelie Wise of Leander, Texas; and nieces, nephews, and friends. Cremation will take place. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the American Boy Scouts, as he was an Eagle Scout or to the American Cancer Foundation. ___________ 09 Jun 2010 William L. Allhiser William L. Allhiser died May 16, 2010 at Aldersgate Village in Topeka. There will be a Memorial Celebration for friends and famiily on Thursday, June 10th at 1:30 pm. It will be held at the Mulvane Unit of Aldersgate Village, in the Olive T. Jones Bulding. ___________ 10 Jun 2010 Leora B. Bickford Butterfield Albert OVERLAND PARK- Leora B. Bickford Butterfield Albert, 86, of Overland Park, KS, passed away June 8, 2010 at Indian Creek Nursing Home. Funeral Service will be held Monday, June 14 at 3:00 p.m. with a visitation 2-3:00 p.m. prior at the D.W. Newcomers Sons Overland Park Chapel, 8201 Metcalf, Overland Park, KS. Graveside services will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 15th at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Topeka, KS. Leora was born October 2, 1923 in Osage City, KS to Ben and Stella Bickford. She loved her family and friends and brought joy to everyone around her. She had a wonderful sense of humor and will be greatly missed by all. Preceding her in death were her parents, 2 brothers, and her beloved husband, Bill. Survivors include her sister, Edna Laird of Topeka, KS; daughter, Shirley Williams of Edwardsville, KS; grandchildren Todd, Lori, and Bryan; great grandchildren Kylie, Jake, and Paige; 9 nieces and nephews as well as many great nieces and nephews and friends. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Odyssey Hospice. Share a memory, sign an online guestbook, or express your condolences at www.overlandparkchapel.com. ___________ 12 Jun 2010 Raymond Earl Adams CENTRALIA- Raymond Earl Adams, 89, of Centralia, KS, passed away Friday, June 11, 2010 at the Onaga Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Opal Irene Adams of Centralia, KS; his son, Roger Adams (Judy) of Corning, KS and 3 sisters. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 14, 2010 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery at Goff, KS. Family will greet friends from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Raymond Adams Memorial Fund to be designated later c/o Mercer Funeral Home, Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. - - - Madge Albright HOYT- Madge Albright, 88, of Hoyt, KS died June 10, 2010 in Topeka, KS. Survivors include her daughter, Beni Mosher (Dennis) of Topeka, KS and her son, Jim Albright of Topeka, KS. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 14, 2010 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Madge Albright Memorial Fund- to be designated later, c/o Mercer Funeral Home, Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com. ___________ 16 Jun 2010 John Allen Adams John Allen Adams, age 30, of Topeka, passed away Monday, June 14, 2010 in Topeka of natural causes. He was born February 20, 1980 in Larned, KS the son of Allen Adams and Glenda Barrand. He married Victoria Lekanoff May 19, 2000 in Topeka. She survived of St. Marys. John is also survived by his maternal grandmother, Edith Barrand of Topeka; his step-father, Richard Rick Smith of Topeka; his father, Allen Adams of Oxford, Iowa; a son, Samuel Adams of St. Marys, KS; a daughter, Desarae Adams of St. Marys; a friend, Donna Warner and their daughter, Leanna Adams of Salina; two sisters, Eva Bessette and Nicole Barrand, both of Topeka; nephews, Bronner and Kaden Bessette of Topeka and Blayne Barrand of Topeka; cousins, Benjamin Hardesty, Jessica Hardesty and Christina Hardesty, all of Topeka. John loved camping and fishing and was a cherished father. Funeral services will be Friday, June 18, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the Davidson Funeral Home. He will lie in state Thursday from noon 9:00 p.m. at the Davidson Funeral Home with visitation from 7:00 8:30 p.m. Thursday. Interment will be at the Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials may be made American Diabetes Association and sent in care of the Davidson Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at davidsonfuneral.com. Davidson Funeral Home Information Visitation: Thursday, Jun. 17, 2010 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Service: Friday, Jun. 18, 2010 10:30 am Cemetery: Penwell-Gabel Memorial Park Cemetery ___________ 25 Jun 2010 Elizabeth Grace Adkins Elizabeth Grace Adkins, 84, Topeka, passed away on Thursday, June 24, 2010 at a local hospital. Elizabeth was born February 24, 1926 in Banner, VA, the daughter of Thomas and Nellie (Robinson) Baber. She worked as a dietary aide at Stormont-Vail Hospital, retiring in 1974. She was a member of Faith Family Life Centre in Topeka. Elizabeth married William Adkins on April 12, 1946 in Pikeville, KY. He died January 4, 2009. Survivors include daughters, Joyce (Ken) Oldridge, Debbie Lozzi, all of Topeka; grandchildren, Tina (David) Pace, Julie (Randy) Price, Cory (Sara) Zellers, Kylie (Mark) Essman; and 6 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at Faith Family Life Centre. Burial will follow at West Lawn Memorial Gardens. Elizabeth will lie in state at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence after 2:00 p.m. on Monday where the family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Family Life Centre, 3710 NW Topeka, Topeka, Kansas 66617. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 26 Jun 2010 Tristan Dane Abosso GOODLAND- Tristan Dane Abosso, 22, died Friday, June 18, 2010, in Goodland, KS. He was the son of Dane Joseph and Kathi Nored Abosso. His mother preceded him in death. He attended Gateway High School in Aurora, CO, and two years at Topeka High School. He worked as a lineman for X-Cell Energy and was a member of the Jehovah Witnesses Congregation. Tristan was married to Janessa Stevens-Abosso on Feb. 17, 2006. She survives. Other survivors include his brothers, Aaron Joseph Abosso, of Connecticut and Simon Joseph Abosso, of Denver, CO; a sister, Lauren Allegra Abosso, of Denver, CO; and grandparents, Tony & Shirley Abosso of Rhode Island and Jack Nored of Oregon. Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 26 at Bowser Johnson Funeral Chapel, Inc. ___________ 08 Jul 2010 Marvin Glenn Akers Marvin Glenn Akers, 65, Topeka passed away July 6, 2010. Marvin was born November 9, 1944 in Topeka, the son of Ralph Eugene and Opal Mildred (Smalley) Akers. He graduated from Washburn Rural High School. Marvin served in the National Guard doing aircraft maintenance. He married Shirley Mae Douglas on April 4, 1965 in Topeka. He worked in commercial drywall for many years in a supervisor position and was the all around go- to- guy. As well as his career in construction Marvin was passionate about farming and agriculture and raised his family in that environment. He was a member of the American Legion post 0198, Osage City. Marvin had a great work ethic; he was a simple man and had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, woodworking and was a race car enthusiast. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Akers, Topeka; daughter, Lori Rae Akers, Kansas City; son, Jared Akers and his wife, Emily, Lee Summit MO; grandchildren, Ava Simone Harrington, Kai Jacob Harrington, Dallas and Sarah Chatham; great granddaughter, Juniper Pearl Chatham; brothers, Montie Merle Akers and his wife, Linda, Myron Ralph Akers and his wife, Coleen, all of Topeka; and a truckload of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Saturday at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Rd., Topeka KS 66614. Funeral service will follow the visitation Saturday morning at 11:00 at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. Memorial Contributions are suggested to American Legion Post 0198, Osage City Scholarship Fund, sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. ___________ 16 Jul 2010 Sonya Adams LAWRENCE- Sonya Adams, born September 6, 1967, departed this life July 12, 2010. She is survived by her mother, Saundra Blackmon and step-father, Howard Blackmon Sr., two sisters, Alyson Stevenson and Lynne Austin and two brothers, David McFoxx and Howard Blackmon Jr. She was blessed with several aunts, nieces, friends and relatives. Cremation is being handled by Lawrence Funeral Chapel. No services are planned. ___________ 17 Jul 2010 Roselia Dorothea Alexander Roselia Dorothea Alexander, 93, died July 10, 2010, at a Topeka Health Care Facility. She was the daughter of James and Ella Palmer Willhoite. She was born December 16, 1916, in Winfield, KS. She was married to Elijah Alexander, September 10, 1956, in Mount Cloud, MN. Dorothea as she was fondly called worked as a cook until she retired in 1990. She had previously worked at the Northwestern Bank in Minneapolis, MN. Roselia was a member of Second Baptist Church in Topeka. She is survived by her husband; Elijah of fifty-three years and her sister; Therma Dean Jefferson both of Topeka. She will lie in state Sunday July 18 from 4 - 8 p.m. Family will receive friends 6 - 8 p.m. at Bowser Johnson Funeral Chapel. Graveside services will be held Monday, July 19, 11:00 a.m. at the Rochester Cemetery. ___________ 18 Jul 2010 Freda Zirkle Addy LAGUNA NIGUEL, Calif. -- Freda Zirkle Addy passed away on May l8, 2010, in Laguna Niguel, California. She was born September l8, 1907. She was 103. She had lived in Richland, Kansas. She was proceeded in death by her husband of 71 years, Dale Smith Addy, and her son, Allan Claude Addy. Mrs. Addy was retired from the Kansas Highway Department, where she was employed as an artist/draftswoman. She was a member of Shawnee Country Club and was an avid golfer. Mrs. Addy is survived by two daughters, 10 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held to celebrate her life. Freda Zirkle Addy ___________ 24 Jul 2010 Floyd Dale Amon HOLTON- Floyd Dale Amon, 85, of Holton died Friday July 23, 2010 at his home. He was born June 27, 1925 in Holton, the son of Albert Charles and Ada Belle (Hoverstock) Amon. Floyd graduated from Holton High School in 1943 and entered the United States Army in 1949. After proudly serving his country for 35 years, he retired from the United States Army Reserves in 1985. Floyd was a farmer and stockman his entire life. He was a member of the American Legion Mary L. Bair Post #44 in Holton, a member of the Jackson County Livestock Association, served on the board of directors for KSHSAA for six years, the Holton School Board for eight years and was treasurer for Jackson County Nursing Home for eleven years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Holton and was a longtime choir member. On December 2, 1948, he married Phyllis Jean Eubanks in Holton. She survives. Other survivors include: his daughters, Patricia Lukert (Rick) of Sabetha, KS and Debra Matzke (Brad) of Mayetta, KS; his son, Gary Amon (Ann) of Holton, KS; his brother, Glenn Amon of Dallas, TX; his nieces, Glenda Sarmiento (Anibal) of Dallas, TX and Pam Schumann (Jim) of Netawaka, KS; His nephew, Larry Eubanks (Bonnie) of Whiting, KS; his seven grandchildren, Patrick Amon (Christy), Joni Carlsen (Richard), Garrett Amon, Mandy Bredemeier (Jason), Brandon Lukert (Amy), Heather and Ryan Matzke; his seven great-grandchildren, Kade, Carson, Zackary, Kylie, Peyton, Parker and Max. Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial with military honors will follow in Holton Cemetery. The family will greet friends from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Floyd Amon Memorial Fund to be designated later c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, 66436. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com. ___________ 01 Aug 2010 Doris J. Ackerman ST. JOHN, In.- Doris J. Ackerman, age 76, of St. John, Indiana, formerly of Colorado Springs and Arvada, Colorado went home to be with her Lord on Tuesday, July 20, 2010. Her life was truly one worthy for which to give thanks to the Lord Jesus Christ. Doris was loved by her husband, family, and friends. But most of all, there is thankfulness because Doris was given exposure to the gospel of Jesus Christ in her life. For it is the truth of Jesus that alone gives her family hope now that they will be reunited with Doris. It is this truth that Doris professed during the last days of her life and would now want all to profess as well. She is survived by two children Cheryl (Dennis) Harvey and Scott (Robin) Ackerman, four grandchildren and three great grandchildren, three sisters, two brothers and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 59 years Maynard Ackerman, her parents, one sister and four brothers. Doris was a payroll analyst for Rockwell International in Golden, CO and was a member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She enjoyed teaching tole painting, reading, and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. In lieu of flowers donations to the American Lung Association would be appreciated. Condolences at www.fagenmiller.com. ___________ 04 Aug 2010 Michael Ralph Albright Michael Ralph Albright, 69, passed away August 2, 2010 at Select Specialty Hospital. He was born on February 14, 1941 at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka, the son of Ralph H. and Rosemond Annie (Zeller) Albright. Mike went to Assumption Grade School and Highland Park High School. He worked at the Santa Fe Shops and later worked for the Union Pacific Railroad. Mike was a member of Mater Dei Parish. On July 24, 1971, he married Yvonna K. Miller at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Perry. He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Albright in 1995, a son Michael D. Albright in 1974 and a granddaughter Crystal Albright in 1986. Michael is survived by his wife, Yvonna of the home, three daughters, Celestine M. Colon of Wichita, Chantel M. Albright of Grantville and Danielle M. (Clint) Wathen of Topeka, two sons, Larry D. Albright and Charles M. Albright of Topeka. He is also survived by his mother Rosemond Annie Albright and three brothers, Howard (Joy) Albright, Ralph (Debbie) Albright, Brian (Sondra) Albright all of Topeka. Five grandsons, Michael and Thaddeus Wathen of Topeka, and Richie (Christina), Joseph and Vincent Schroeder of Wichita, and one granddaughter Rose Schroeder of Wichita, two great grandsons, Kristien and Kamren Schroeder and one great granddaughter Kylen Schroeder of Wichita also survive. Michael will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Friday at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home where the family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. A parish rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. Saturday at Mater Dei's Assumption Church. A graveside service will be at 3:30 p.m. at Lincoln Cemetery in Lebo. Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association or a mass in his memory sent in care of the funeral home, 800 SW 6th Ave., 66603. Fond memories and online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com. ___________ 09 Aug 2010 (Published at http://www.columbiamissourian.com/stories/2010/08/09/no-marker-topeka-grave-negro-league-standout/) No marker on Topeka grave of Negro League standout by Associated Press TOPEKA, Kan. — A space of grass is all that designates where Carroll Ray "Dink" Mothell is buried. No tombstone. No nameplate. No marker of any kind. No description of a man who was born and raised in Topeka before going on to play 15 seasons of Negro Leagues baseball. The anonymity is consistent with the times in which he lived. Born in 1897 to Sammy and Scotty Lee Pillows Mothell, he received little fanfare for his baseball abilities outside of the black communities of Topeka and Kansas City. Unable to play Major League Baseball because of his skin color, Mothell's talents weren't as publicized as they may have been for a white athlete. Today, one baseball historian describes the former Kansas City Monarch as "All-Star caliber" and another lists him as the 10th best second baseman in Negro Leagues baseball history. However, those accolades remain mostly silent in his home state of Kansas. Mothell's name won't be found on the list of inductees to the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame or even the Kansas Baseball Hall of Fame. A low-key effort in 2004 to convert his family home in Topeka into a museum fell through. The vertical files at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library's Topeka Room dedicated to the area's notable people and places don't include a folder on Mothell. The story of Mothell's life is contained to seven short paragraphs in the Topeka Daily Capital obituary from when he died April 24, 1980. His playing days are only briefly mentioned, and no related articles are to be found in the sports section. Consequently, few Topekans are likely to be aware of Mothell's history and his accomplishments in baseball. However, the members of the Society for American Baseball Research's Negro Leagues committee, led by Jeremy Krock, an anesthesiologist from Peoria, Ill., and Larry Lester, a Negro Leagues historian from Kansas City, Mo., are looking to change that. Since 2004, the organization has installed 20 headstones at unmarked gravesites of Negro Leagues greats across the country. The Negro Leagues committee has targeted at least a dozen more gravesites where it plans to generate funds and install headstones that not only mark the grave but also give notice to the athlete's playing days. Mothell's site at Mount Hope Cemetery in Topeka is among those targets. "These players played as unknowns," Krock said. "They certainly didn't get the credit they deserved during their playing time. The least we can do is remember them now. These players are totally anonymous." Before the days of Satchel Paige, Buck O'Neil and Hilton Smith, it was the likes of Wilber "Bullet" Rogan, Newt Allen and Carroll Ray "Dink" Mothell who led the way for the Kansas City Monarchs. The Monarchs were the premier team, winning the first Negro League World Series in 1924. "Mothell was a great player on a great team," said Phil S. Dixon, a Negro Leagues historian and author of "Wilber Bullet Rogan and the Kansas City Monarchs." Mothell began playing at age 16 for the Topeka Giants in 1914. Topeka was the starting place for several Negro Leagues players, including Elwood "Bingo" DeMoss, Tully McAdoo and Mothell. He joined the Kansas City Monarchs as a catcher in 1920 and quickly became known for his versatility. During his 15 seasons in Negro Leagues baseball, Mothell played every position. According to Lester's statistics, Mothell played 624 games from 1920-34 with the most at second base (285) and the least at pitcher (1). That one time on the mound was a good one. In the book "Satchel Paige and Company: Essays on the Kansas City Monarchs," it says Mothell tossed a complete game, allowing three runs to earn the win. "His strength also was his weakness in that he could play any position," Lester said. "In those days, they only carried 15 ballplayers, so his versatility was extremely valuable. He was in the lineup most of the time." Krock had grown up hearing about the abilities of Jimmie Crutchfield, an Ardmore, Mo., native who spent 15 seasons in the Negro Leagues. Krock's family members raved about the talents of the 5-foot-7 outfielder with tremendous speed and a team-first attitude. Interested, Krock did some research on Crutchfield and visited the Illinois cemetery where he was buried. Upon doing so, he learned there was no marker on Crutchfield's grave. Krock decided something needed to be done. He learned Crutchfield was far from alone and began working with SABR's Negro Leagues committee to generate funds. In September 2004, grave markers were dedicated for Crutchfield, John Wesley Donaldson and James Allen "Candy Jim" Taylor. Since then, 17 more markers have been placed on the graves of former players, umpires and sportswriters of the Negro Leagues. Costing about $600 to $800 each, the group has been raising enough funds to place markers on about three graves each year. This summer, dedications took place for William "Bobby" Robinson, "Big Bill" Gatewood and James "Sap" Ivory. "The list keeps growing," Krock said. "I think we've learned about two players since Gatewood's dedication. As people find out about us, we learn about more and more. Someone goes to a cemetery and sees there's no marker just like I did." The project's current targets include two members of the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Pete Hill and Solomon White, as well as Mothell and nine others. Krock said he would like to have the funds in place so Mothell's site could be dedicated for the start of the 2011 baseball season. ___________ 10 Aug 2010 Kathleen M. Alexander Kathleen M. Alexander, 67, of Topeka, passed away on August 7, 2010. She was born November 12, 1942, in Durham, North Carolina, the daughter of Edward and Margaret Goldrich Tucker, Sr. Kathleen grew up in the Topeka community, graduating from Topeka High in 1960. After graduation, she moved to California, where she began her career with the Air Force. After serving with the Air Force, she moved back to Topeka, where she worked with the Coast Guard, until her retirement. Kathleen made her career serving as a civilian personnel executive secretary in the United States Air Force and Coast Guard.Katheen is survived by a son, Winston A. Alexander; brother, Edward Tucker, Jr.; sister, Agnes Nzekwe; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by a brother, Clifford S. Patterson. Kathleen has been cremated and in accordance with her wishes, no services are planned at this time. Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a special message for the family online, please visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com. ___________ 13 Aug 2010 Donald LeRoy Akin Donald LeRoy Akin, 59, Silver Lake, died Wed., Aug. 11, 2010 as a result of injuries from an accident. Don was born July 8, 1951 in Axtell KS, the son of Elmer and Pauline Maddocks Akin. He was a graduate of Rossville High School, NE Kansas Technical College, Beloit KS and served our country in the US Navy Seabees. On July 28, 1972, Don and Mary Jane Aubert were united in marriage in St. Marys KS. They enjoyed 38 years together. Survivors include his wife, Jane, of the home; daughters, Nikki Markham (Chris), Emporia, Tonya Olson (Kevin), Post Falls ID, and Jacinta Akin, of the home; sister, Marlene Aubert (Clyde), St. Marys; brothers, John Akin (Susan), Topeka and Steven W. Akin (Bernie), St. Marys; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother, Michael Akin. Don worked for Frito Lay, was owner/operator of D&A Transport and most recently was employed by Shawnee County. Don was a member of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree. Don will lie in state from 2 to 7 p.m. Sun., Aug. 15th at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Rd, Topeka KS 66614, where family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. At 7 p.m. there will be a Knights of Columbus Chalice Ceremony followed by a rosary. The Chaplet of Divine Mercy will then be prayed. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Mon., Aug. 16th, at Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church, 2014 NW 46th St. Topeka. Cremation will follow. Memorial contributions are suggested to Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church, sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com. ___________ 20 Aug 2010 Robert G. Bob Allan, Jr. LUFKIN, Tx.- Robert G. Bob Allan, Jr., 79, of Lufkin, Texas passed away Tuesday, August 17, 2010 in a local hospital. Mr. Allan was born July 16, 1931 in Batavia, New York to the late Cecilia (Miller) and Robert G. Allan, Sr. He worked at Beards Fine Jewelers for 11 years. Prior to Beards he was in heavy equipment sales management. Survivors include his wife, Joan Gibbs Allan of Lufkin, Texas; daughters and sons-in-law, Lisa and Gandy Stubblefield of Diboll, Texas and Debbie and Doug Jorgensen of Topeka, Kansas; son, Jim Allan of Topeka, Kansas; grandchildren, Gandy IV, Tyler and Kole Stubblefield, Cody Jorgensen and wife Rachel, Lauren and Taylor Jorgensen, Riggs, Emma and Tessa Allan, all of Topeka; and sister, Lucille Allan Ehlman of Medford, New Jersey. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Allan Scholarship Fund for Riggs Robert Allan, son of Jim Allan, c/o Envista Credit Union, 3626 S.W. Wanamaker Road, Topeka, Kansas 66614. Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com. ___________ 23 Aug 2010 Ruby E. Adams MAPLE HILL- Ruby E. Adams, 90, passed away Sunday, August 22, 2010 at Plaza West Care Home in Topeka. Mrs. Adams was born November 29, 1919 at Paxico, the daughter of August and Lillian Huntsman Maes. She was raised in the Paxico community and graduated from Paxico High School in 1937. She and her husband Vernon lived in the Maple Hill community from 1938 until 1962 when they moved to Topeka, they moved back to Maple Hill in 1986. Mrs. Adams had two sets of twins, Dean and Jean and Beulah and Eula. Ruby attended the Maple Hill Community Congregational Church. Ruby was united in marriage to Vernon Adams on April 9, 1938 at Lyndon. He preceded her in death on July 21, 1997. She was also preceded in death by a sister Ruth Bayless. Survivors include her children, Melba Jo (Lyle) Raine, Maple Hill, Dean (Theresa) Adams, Maple Hill, Jean (Dan) Pipkins, Wiggins, MS, Beulah (Jerry) Grant, Hoyt, Eula (Bill) Snyder, Topeka, Paul "Pete" (Nancy) Adams, Carbondale and Gayle (Steve) Schultz, Topeka; 25 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, August 25, 2010 at Piper Funeral Home in St. Marys. Mrs. Adams will lie in state after 6:00 P.M. Tuesday at the funeral home where the family will receive friends from 6:30 until 8:00 P.M. Interment will be in the Maple Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Heart of America Hospice or the American Diabetes Association and sent in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to www.piperfuneralhome.com. ___________ 08 Sep 2010 Opal Mae Akin MANHATTAN- Opal Mae Akin, age 93, of Manhattan, died September 7, 2010, at Mercy Regional Health Center in Manhattan. She was born May 17, 1917, in Union Township, Pottawatomie County, Kansas, the daughter of Charlie and Libbie (Simon) Bairow, and had been a Manhattan area resident since 1953. Graveside services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Friday at the Pleasant Valley Cemetery near Zeandale. The family of Mrs. Akin will receive friends from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Friday at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the LaClede Baptist Church or the American Diabetes Association . Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502. ___________ 14 Sep 2010 Mildred Irene Petefish Allen BALDWIN CITY -- Private graveside services for Mildred Irene Petefish Allen, 95, Baldwin City, will be Friday at Memorial Park Cemetery, Lawrence. Mrs. Allen died Saturday, Sept. 11, 2010. She married Richard F. Allen on Aug. 22, 1952, in Topeka. He died Mar. 29, 1993. He was an attorney and served in the Kansas Legislature in the 1950s. Friends may call from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, where the family will receive them from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The family suggests memorial contributions to Grace Hospice, in care of the funeral home, 601 Ind., Lawrence, KS, 66044. Online condolences may be sent at www.rumsey-yost.com. ___________ 30 Oct 2010 David Stewart Adams MEADE David Stewart Adams, age 76, died Thursday afternoon, October 28, 2010 at the Lone Tree Retirement Center, Meade, Kansas. He was born June 16, 1934, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of Raymond E. and Jessie Stewart Adams. As a youth he attended the Maple Hill Grade School. For high school he attended Pembroke County Day School in Kansas City, Missouri before graduating from Washburn Rural High School in 1952. He attended Kansas State University and then joined the United States Army, serving for several years. Upon his discharge, he returned to Kansas State University to complete his education. David enjoyed raising cattle from a young age. He started the Adams Ranch and focused Herford, Simmental, and Angus cattle. The Adams Ranch is situated in Wabaunsee and Seward counties, near Maple Hill and Meade, Kansas and Beaver county, Oklahoma. The Adams Ranch headquarters to rural Meade County in 1997. David was a member of the Kansas Cattleman's Association, the American Royal, Pembroke Hill Alumni Association, and Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. He was an avid pilot. On September 13, 1980, he married Judy Robert in Maple Hill, Kansas. They recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary. They shared many interests including flying, cattle and travel. David was passionate about his 29 years of sobriety. He was committed to his ministry of helping others who struggled with alcoholism and impacted hundreds of lives. He and Judy founded the Maple Hill AA and Al-Anon Group and built the building where they have continued to meet for 25 years. Survivors also include: his children: Sarah Adams Guinn and husband Kent of Overland Park, Kansas; Amy Berckman and husband Bobby of Morehead City, North Carolina; David Stewart Adams, Jr. and wife Caroline of Shawnee, Kansas; his sister, Ann Adams Russell of Lawrence, Kansas and her husband Robert (Bob) Russell; seven grandchildren, Alexander Guinn, Grace Guinn, Colin McDonald, Kirsten McDonald, Andrew Adams, Paige Adams, and Amanda Steffen. He is preceded in death by his parents; his step-son, Craig Shaffer; and his brother, Raymond E. Adams, Jr. Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, October 31, 2010, at the Adams Ranch, rural Meade. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday at the Old Stone Church, Maple Hill, Kansas. Interment will follow in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Maple Hill. The family would welcome memorials made to: Meade County Historical Society in care of Fidler-Orme-Bachman Mortuary, PO Box 70, Meade, KS 67864 or to the Maple Hill 12 Step Group Activities Fund in care of the Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple Street, St. Mary's, Kansas, 66536. Online condolence may be sent to www.piperfuneralhome.com. ___________________ 08 Nov 2010, Monday (Published at http://obit.davidsonfuneral.com/obitlist.html) Melvin C. Kroemer Visitation: Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2010 12 pm - 5:00 pm Cemetery: Corning Cemetery Melvin C. Kroemer, age 73, of Topeka passed away Sunday morning, November 7, 2010 at a Topeka hospital. He was born November 16, 1936 in Bern, KS the son of Henry Kroemer and Emma Siske Kroemer. He married Jeanette Gafford, she survives. Other survivors include a son, Dirk of Topeka and a sister Fayola Linneman of Emporia. Private graveside services will be Wednesday, November 10, 2010 at 12:30 p.m. at the Corning Cemetery. He will lie in state from noon – 5:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Davidson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Loving Hearts Training Center or Central Park Christian Church and sent in care of the Davidson Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at davidsonfuneral.com. ___________ 12 Nov 2010 Ronald Lee Acuna Sr. Ronald Lee Acuna Sr., "Sonny," "Keosequah," passed away at his home in Chanute on November 8, 2010. Sonny was a great humanitarian and a very religious man. His passion for preserving Native American culture and customs led him to be chosen as an Elder in 1995 by the Kansas Association for Native American Education. He originated and presided over Shawnee County Allied Tribes in Topeka and organized several programs throughout Kansas. He was honored by the governor as well as numerous organizations for sharing his knowledge. His vision was to preserve the Native American Heritage. Ron was born August 23, 1921 in Wichita, Kansas. He has 9 children, 34 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. His wife, Elna, preceded him in death as well as his parents, one brother, 3 sisters, a son and a granddaughter. The viewing will be from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Sunday, November 14th, at the Penwell-Gabel Gibson Chapel in Chanute. Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 15th, 1:00 p.m., at the Penwell-Gabel Gibson Chapel, 16 N. Forest, Chanute, KS. Graveside services will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials in his name may be made to American Heart Association and may be left with the funeral home. To leave a special message for the family on-line, visit www.PenwellGabelChanute.com. ___________ 18 Nov 2010 Matthew Scout Adair Matthew Scout Adair, 21, of Topeka passed away on November 15, 2010. He was born June 26, 1989 in Topeka the son of Jeffrey and Elaine (Fithian) Adair. Matthew attended McEachron Elementary, Logan Junior High and Seaman High School. He was a member of the Seaman Golf Team all four years of high school. He attended the University of Kansas. Most recently, Matthew had worked at Kerry Foods in Gardner. He loved playing golf, enjoyed spending time with his friends and listening to music. He is survived by his parents, Jeffrey and Elaine Adair of Topeka, his younger brother, Benjamin; his grandparents, Bruce and Charlotte Adair and Nancy Adair all of Topeka; his aunt Lee Geary of Topeka; uncle Charles and wife Lyn Fithian in New Jersey, his great-grandparents many aunts, uncles and four cousins. Matthew was preceded in death by his grandparents, Raymond and Patricia Fithian, and his aunt Jennifer Adair. He will lie in state from 9-3 on Friday at Davidson Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm Friday evening at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1275 SW Boswell. Funeral services will be 11:00 am Saturday morning, November 20th at the church. Interment will follow at Penwell-Gabel Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands Humane Society. To leave a message for the family, please visit davidsonfuneral.com. "I am the greatest man who ever lived." Davidson Funeral Home Information Visitation: Saturday, Nov. 20, 2010 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Service: Saturday, Nov. 20, 2010 11:00 am Cemetery: Penwell-Gabel Memorial Park Cemetery ___________ 20 Nov 2010 Wilma L. Albertson ROBINSON Wilma L. Albertson, 89, of rural Robinson, died November 18, 2010, at Hiawatha. Her husband Luther preceded her in death. Among the survivors are a son, Wayne Albertson, of rural Robinson. Funeral services are planned for 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 24, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha. The family will meet with friends from 7 until 8 Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to The Pines which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434. www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com ___________ 13 Dec 2010 Alford Laverne (Al) Aaron Alford (Al) Laverne Aaron, 99, left this earth to sing with the angels on December 11, 2010, at Brookside Retirement Center. He was born in Mitchell, Nebraska, to Leroy G. Aaron and Bessie Ann McCalmant Aaron Rogers. He moved to Topeka with his mother and his sister, Evelyn, at the age of seven. He married Vera Leese in 1931; they had two daughters, and were later divorced. He became a carpet and tile installer and worked for McCormick Rug Company in Topeka for many years. In 1944 he met and married Bonna J. Glessner from Alta Vista, and they had three daughters. They moved to Carbondale in 1947 and lived in their little house in the country west of Carbondale for 58 years. In 1965 they purchased and operated the Aaron's Home Store; they sold the business and retired in 1985. They moved to the town of Carbondale in 2005, then to Brookside Retirement Community, Overbrook, Kansas, in 2008. Al was a member of Carbondale Grange #754 for 56 years, and was involved at the county and state levels. Al and Bonna (Bonnie) became members of the Carbondale Community Church of Christ fifty years ago. He was an active member of the Carbondale Kiwanis and supported many youth and community organizations. He was passionate about the local volunteer fire department, was a member of the board, and was proud to be an Honorary Fire Fighter. Most of all Al was devoted to his large family. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Evelyn Bailey, Flora Nutt, Emma Marie Meugniot; his daughter, Peggy Joyce Tolbert; two grandsons; one great-granddaughter; and one great-great- granddaughter. He is survived by his wife Bonna ; four daughters: Delores (Richard ) Leupold of Topeka; Vita Jo (Keith) Tucker of Burlingame; Gayle Aaron and Lynn (Alan) Runyan, all of Loveland, Colorado; twelve grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; and twelve great-great-grand children. A celebration of Al's life will be held at the Elm Building in Carbondale, Kansas, on Thursday, December 16, 2010, at 2:00 P.M. The family invites all for fellowship from 1:00-4:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alford Aaron Memorial Fund c/o Carey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 196, Burlingame, KS 66413, which will be used for a local community memorial. ___________ 20 Dec 2010 Thomas M. Abramovitz VALLEY FALLS -- Thomas M. Abramovitz, 78, Valley Falls, died Saturday, Dec. 18, 2010, at his home west of Valley Falls after a 15-month struggle with leukemia. He was born on Aug. 15, 1932, at Kansas City, KS, the son of Thomas A. and Josephine Michalski Abramovitz. He graduated from Turner High School in 1950 and served in the U.S. Navy from 1951-55 during the Korean War. Tom had lived at Valley Falls since 1964 and was a dairyman and farmer. He was a member of St. Marys Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and Grahem-Herbers Post 3084, Veterans of Foreign Wars, both in Valley Falls. He was a charter member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 6671, and served as Grand Knight for four years. He was a board member for the Leavenworth-Jefferson Rural Electric Cooperative for six years. He married Marjorie Flint on July 19, 1957, at Leavenworth. She died on Feb. 8, 1989. He married Patricia Brunson on Nov. 3, 1990, at Valley Falls. She survives at the home. He was also preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Irene Potter Abramovitz; a brother, Raymond Abramovitz; two stepbrothers, Gene Potter and Carl Potter; and a stepsister, Goldie Knudson. He is survived by two sons, David (Lisa) Abramovitz, Valley Falls, and Tommy Abramovitz, Kalispell, MT; four daughters, Tamera (Ed) Dinger, and Teresa (Larry) Stephens, all of Valley Falls, Cindy (Jamie) Griffitts, Marion, KS, and Ruth (Mike) McGlory, Topeka; two stepsons, Mark (Anita) Hendricks, and Mike (Julie) Hendricks, all of Ottawa; two stepdaughters, Julie (Pat) Sieve, Valley Falls, and Rhonda (David) Moran, Osage City; a brother, Ralph Abramovitz, Tonganoxie; two sisters, Florence Courtney, McLouth, and Mary Heintzelman, Leavenworth; three stepsisters, Gladys Cappacious, Oskaloosa, Betty Harmon, Belleville, PA, and Mary Louise Peters, McLouth; 25 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2010, at St. Marys Immaculate Conception Church in Valley Falls. Burial will follow at the church cemetery with military honors by Grahem-Herbers Post 3084, V.F.W. A Rosary followed by a visitation will be at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, at Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Marys Building Fund for the new entrance to the church and sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 6, Valley Falls, KS 66088. Online condolences are at mercerfuneralhomes.com. Thomas M. Abramovitz - - - Kenneth M. Alt Kenneth M. Alt, age 87, of Wamego, Kansas, died December 19, 2010, at the Good Samaritan Center in Wamego after a year-long illness. Kenneth was born June 4, 1923, to Carl H. and Helen L. (Breymeyer) Alt on the Hundred and One Farm northwest of Paxico, KS. He attended Greenwood District 33 grade school and graduated from St. Marys High School in 1941. He was baptized, confirmed, married and a lifelong member of Immanuel Faith Community Church-Wells Creek. On Sept. 30, 1945, he married Delta R. Abele and started farming southwest of St. Marys, KS. In 1950, he was able to find ground closer to home, south of Wamego. Kenny was a proud farmer for 50 years. He was preceded in death by a baby sister, his parents and a special brother- and sister-in-law, Arnold and Wilma Abele. He was a loving husband, good friend and a special dad and grandpa. He is survived by his wife, Delta, of the home; children, Doug (Sarah) Alt, Salina, KS, and Debbie (Paul) Turpin, Kansas City, MO; grandchildren, Tony (Leslie) Alt, Tyler Alt (fiance, Meghan Mohr), Paul Turpin III (Shelly and daughters, Ashley and Erica), Clay Turpin and Wes Turpin, all of Kansas City. His great- grandchildren include Anne and Benjamin Alt and Paul IV, Remy, Brogan and Parker Turpin. He is, also, survived by an extended family of four unofficially adopted grandchildren, Patti Johnson, Mark Werner and Becca and Dustin Hatfield. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, December 22, 2010, at Immanuel Faith Community Church-Wells Creek in rural Belvue, Kansas. Burial will follow at the Wamego City Cemetery. Mr. Alt will lie-in-state starting at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday at Campanella-Evans Mortuary in Wamego, where the family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. They suggest memorial contributions to the church memorial fund or the Capper Foundation supporting youth, and those may be sent in care of the mortuary. Online condolences may be made at www.campanellafuneral.com. ___________ 28 Dec 2010 William F. Adams, Jr. CLAY CENTER William Bill Frank Adams, Jr., age 90, died Dec. 23, 2010 at Presbyterian Manor, Clay Center, KS. Bill married Jeanette Singleton in 1950. She preceded him in death in 2000. He taught high school English and Journalism at Topeka High School from 1948 to 1952. He had served as agency vice president for the Victory Life Insurance Company. He is survived by his nephew, Wayne VanSickle and family of Riley, KS. According to his wishes, Bill was cremated. Neill-Schwensen- Rook Funeral Home, Clay Center, is in charge of arrangements. Last Updated: 07 Mar 2012