Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home

Albert Wendell Wallace, 60, of Fort Scott, Kansas died early Monday morning March 8, 2010 at his home. He was born December 5, 1949 in Panama City, Florida the son of Albert Cushing and Lendell (Robinson) Wallace. He married Abigail (Abby) Ann Purvis April 28, 2001 in Fort Scott. She survives of the home.

He received his engineering degree from New Mexico State University, and prior to the accident which caused his blindness, Albert was a mechanic and worked for Ford Motor Company for many years. He later attended Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas and was the first blind chemistry student in the United States.

In addition to his wife Abby, Albert is survived by two sisters; Nancy Nials, Portales, New Mexico, and Sandra Stroud, Creve Coeur, Illinois, a brother; Lee Wallace, Amarillo, Texas, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Following cremation, Duane Wallace will conduct a Memorial Service for Albert 2:00 p.m. Thursday, March 11, 2010 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Fort Scott, Kansas. Online condolences may be emailed to expressions@konantz-cheney.com. Services are under the arrangement of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS  66701.

Abner  Delbert Johnson, 90, of Uniontown, Kansas, died Sunday evening, February 21, 2010 at the Moran Manor Nursing Home in Moran, Kansas. He was born April 17, 1919 in Garnett, Kansas the son of Delbert and Katie Beulah (Wilson) Johnson. He married Grace ‘Josephine’ Handrahan May 24, 1942 in Uniontown, Kansas. She survives of the home.

He farmed his whole life, and loved to hunt and fish. He had a passion for Hereford Cattle.

He is survived by his wife Josephine, his children; Earl “Pat” Johnson and his wife Connie of Redfield, Kansas, Ancel “Andy” Johnson and his wife Karen of Fort Scott, and Lois Coyan and her husband George of Redfield, a sister-in-law; June Johnson of Walla Walla, Washington, eight grandchildren; Randy Johnson, Brenda Johnson McConville, Crystal Johnson, Jeff Johnson, Tammy Johnson Frank, Robin Johnson Schrack, Mike Coyan, and Doug Coyan, seventeen great-grandchildren; Bridget Johnson, Brady Johnson, Hannah McConville, Mary McConville, Alexandria Johnson Brodbeck, Eva Johnson Brodbeck, Lakyn Coyan, Cale Coyan, Payton Coyan, Amanda Casner, Mark Cutshaw, Nolan Frank, Garrett Frank, Carson Schrack, Corbin Schrack, Trent Johnson, and Ty Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers; Max Johnson, and John Johnson.

Rev. Chub Boling will conduct funeral services 2:00 p.m. Thursday, February 25, 2010 at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, with burial following at the Woods Cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening February 24, 2010 from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.

Lester Valentine Sinn, 84, of Fort Scott, died Tuesday evening, February 16, 2010 at his home.  He was born February 14, 1926 in Fort Scott, Kansas the son of Fred Gottfred and Elsie Sophia (Eberle) Sinn. He married Shirley Ann Turner July 26, 1957 in Fort Scott. She preceded him in death March 13, 2003.

Lester was a lifelong Farmer & Dairyman, and a lifetime member of the Olson-Frary-Burkhart Post 1165 Veterans of Foreign Wars.  He served in the US Army in the years following the end of WWII.

He is survived by his children; Janet and Terry Grote of Wichita, Kansas, Carolyn and Roger Welch of Bronson, Kansas, Beth and Kenny Snyder of Fulton, Kansas, Lisa and Bill King of Springdale, Arkansas, Brenda and Steve Hill of Fort Scott, and Jason Sinn also of Fort Scott, a sister; Eileen McDaniel of Fort Scott, fourteen grandchildren, and two step-grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Shirley, he was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers; Oliver ‘Buzz’ Sinn, Jim Sinn, and Dean Sinn, an infant sister; Joyce Sinn, and a grandson; Jordan Snyder.

Rev. Paul Babcock will conduct funeral services 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 19, 2010 at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, with burial following at the Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday evening, February 18, 2010 from 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials contributions may be made to the Bourbon County Fair and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701. Condolences may be emailed to expressions@konantz-cheney.com.

Joe Gregory, age 89, a resident of Fort Scott, Kansas, died Saturday morning, February 13, 2010, at the family home with his wife of 57 years by his side.

Joe was born August 2, 1920 in Cleveland, Oklahoma, the son of Clarence and Veva Gregory. The family moved to Dodge City, Kansas, where Joe grew up. He graduated from Dodge City High School where he played violin and trombone and was selected to the All State band, orchestra, and chorus.

He attended the University of Kansas and played trombone in the K.U. band. After graduating with his B.S. degree in 1942, he began his service in the U.S. Navy. He attended Midshipman’s School at Columbia University and played in the Midshipman’s School band. Joe served on the U.S.S. Canberra in the South Pacific from 1943 to 1946. He then returned to K.U. where he received his law degree in 1949. Joe came to Fort Scott to work for the Western Insurance Company as a claims attorney, and retired in 1986 as Claims Vice-President.

Joe married Janet L. (Morrison) Gregory on October 19, 1952 in Fort Scott. Joe enjoyed serving as a church choir director for many years while Janet was the organist. He served as president of the U234 school board for 14 years from 1962 to 1976. He was a member of Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Fort Scott. He enjoyed playing golf, and scored three career hole-in-ones. Joe enjoyed his family very much and still holds the family record for most consecutive freethrows made on the driveway court.

Survivors include his wife, Janet, of the home; three sons, Jeff M. Gregory, Springfield, Missouri, J. Gordon Gregory, Pittsburg, Kansas, and Gilbert E. Gregory, Fort Scott, Kansas; grandchildren, and two great-grandsons. He was preceded in death by his parents.

There was cremation. A private Memorial Mass will be celebrated at the church followed by burial at the Fort Scott National Cemetery. Services are under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to either the Tri-Valley Developmental Center of Fort Scott, or Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church, and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309,Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.

Waneta McKinnis 91, of Uniontown, Kansas died Thursday evening, February 11, 2010 at the Fort Scott Manor Nursing Home in Fort Scott, Kansas.  She was born February 24, 1918 in Uniontown, Kansas the daughter of Benjamin Adelbert and Anga Belle (Britton) Rogers. She was a graduate of Uniontown High School. On December 27, 1940 she married Charles Siegle McKinnis. He preceded her in death July 5, 2000.

They farmed in the Bronson until 1972. They moved to Uniontown when their son, Warren moved to the farm and joined in the farm and ranch operation. She had worked at the Stroud Grocery Store, Goldie’s Café, and for twenty-one years at the Marmaton Valley Rest Home in Uniontown. She was a member of the United Methodist Church and Mary A. Hepler O.E.S. She served on the Marion Township election board for forty-four years. Her favorite pastimes were scrapbooking for her grandchildren, playing cards, cooking, and quilting.

Survivors include three grandsons; Chad (Jodi) McKinnis of Hutchinson, KS; Clay (Teri) McKinnis, Pittsburg, KS, and Clint McKinnis, Pittsburg, KS, two great-grandchildren; Gage and Quin McKinnis, and a daughter-in-law; Vera McKinnis Scifers of Fort scott, KS. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, a son; Robert Warren McKinnis, five sisters; Imo Salmon, Ruth Ramsey, Anna May Ramsey, Dorotha Ramsey, and Mary Ramsey, and two brothers; Livian Rogers, and Glen Rogers.

Rev Chub Bolling and Rev. Joel Dunn will conduct funeral services 2:00 p.m. Monday February 15, 2010 at the Uniontown United Methodist Church with a visitation prior to services, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at the Uniontown Cemetery. Memorial may be made to the American Cancer Society and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701. Online condolences may be emailed to the family at expressions@konantz-cheney.com.

She moved to Fulton, Kansas in 1950 from Mapleton, and graduated from Fulton High School. She was a member of the Fulton United Methodist for 50 years, a former member of the Mapleton Christian Church, and also attended the Mound City Baptist Church. She was passionate about attending her grandchildren & great grandchildren’s ball games, and rarely missed one.

She is survived by three sons; Garyl Duane Coleman of Prescott, Kansas, Truman Lee Coleman of Mound City, Kansas, and Harold Dean Coleman of Fort Scott, Kansas, six grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, and her three brothers; Elsworth Clayton, Wayne Clayton, and Curtis Ray ‘Rosie’ Clayton.

Someone once said “I used to want to change the world. Now all I want to do is be able to leave the room with a little dignity”. Evelyn Carole Woods was able to do both of those things on Sunday, January 17, 2010.

Carole Woods, 66, of Fort Scott, died Sunday January 17, 2010 at the St. Johns Medical Center in Joplin. She was born December 17, 1943 in Springfield, Missouri the daughter of Clarence Lee, Jr. and Marie Jane (Youngblood) Rice, and was raised by her maternal grandparents; George and Evelyn Youngblood. She married Marvin Ralph Woods, Sr. November 7, 1966 in Springfield, Missouri. He preceded her in death October 8, 1999.

She graduated from Central High School in Springfield, Missouri, and attended Mercy School of Practical Nursing, as well as SW Missouri State before coming to Fort Scott. She graduated from Mercy School of Nursing, Fort Scott, in 1966. She also attended Fort Scott Community College. She was a Recovery Room Nurse at Mercy Hospital for over forty years.

Carole is survived by three sons; Marvin Ralph Woods, Jr. of Pittsburg, Kansas, Kevin Michael Woods of Joplin, Missouri, and Tyler Jared Woods of Manhattan, Kansas, her mother, Marie McDaniel of Springfield, Missouri, three sisters; Patricia Looney, Tina McBrayer, and Jean Lee Duke, all of Springfield, Missouri, a brother, Darrell Eugene McDaniel, also of Springfield, and four grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Marvin, she was also preceded in death by her father, a brother, James Michael McDaniel, and an infant brother, George Anthony.

William James Schafer will conduct funeral services 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 22, 2010 at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, with burial following at the Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends, Thursday, January 21, 2010 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Bourbon County Relay for Life and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.

Donald Gordon, 89, died January 4, 2010 in La Jolla, California. 

ONE OF THE FEW REMAINING WWII FIGHTER ACES DIES

Captain Donald “Flash” Gordon was born to his mother Helen Lee (Couch)and father Arch Brown Gordon on July 17, 1920, in a farmhouse just outside of Garland, Kansas. He recently attended his 70th high school reunion at Fort Scott High School where he graduated in 1939. He continued on to Fort Scott Junior College, graduating in 1941. He also took the Civil Pilots training program and earned his pilot license. After finishing college, Flash entered the Naval Aviation Cadet Program on July 7, 1941.

Following flight training, he was commissioned as an ensign in March 1942 at age 21 and was assigned to Fighter Squadron VF-10 on the USS Enterprise, known famously as the “Grim Reapers.” He participated in many major combat engagements in WWII for nearly two years including the battles of Santa Cruz, Guadalcanal, Truk, Saipan, Guam, Gilbert Islands, and the First Battle of Philippine Sea. During his distinguished Naval Career, he was a WWII Ace credited with victories over 7 Japanese aircraft; awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with two Gold Stars; the Air Medal with three Gold Stars; a Navy Commendation with Combat “V”; the Navy Unit Citation and two Presidential Unit Citations.

In addition to his wartime accomplishments, he was a member of the Navy’s first jet carrier squadron in 1948 at Naval Air Station, Alameda, California. He commanded the F9F Cougar jet Squadron VF-143 at what is now MCAS Miramar, California in 1956. He attended the Naval War College, in Newport, Rhode Island in 1957, and served on the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Washington, D.C., during the Vietnam era. After retirement from the Navy as a Captain, in 1967, he was employed by Lockheed Corporation in Burbank, California, and finished his career there in 1982 as the Director of Customer Relations. He was an active member of the Association of Naval Aviation, the Fighter Aces Association, and the Golden Eagles. He supported many aviation museums and associations throughout the country. He was invited to speak about his wartime experiences by organizations throughout the United States and overseas.

Although Flash prided himself with his aviation career, he never forgot where he came from and often told stories about the days on the farm with his 3 brothers (Alan, Carl. Lee) and a sister (Dorothy), where for a time, they had no electricity, running water or indoor bathroom. He started milking cows and plowing the fields at age 8 and drove a tractor by 12 years.

He married his high school sweetheart, Peggy Jean Reynolds, in April of 1942. They spent their honeymoon in Coronado, California, as “Flash” prepared to leave for the war in the South Pacific. After 41 years of marriage, Peggy died battling ovarian cancer in 1982. In 1984 he married the late Nancy Greaves Kellerman of Stockton, California, who recently passed away on October 14, 2009.

Captain Gordon will be remembered not only as the hero he was to all, but as a loving, generous, smiling man, who loved a party, never met a stranger, and genuinely loved people. He is survived by son Jeffrey Gordon of Norfolk, Virginia, his wife Jo Anne, son Larry Gordon, and daughter Michele Sawaya both of San Diego, California. He also leaves behind 4 grandsons: Jeff and Andy Gordon of Baltimore, Maryland, and their wives, Shelby and Grace, and by Nick and Alex Sawaya of San Diego. He has three great granddaughters: Hailey, Piper, Charley, whom he just visited in Baltimore. Last, but not least, he leaves his most loyal companion of all, “Duke,” a West Highland Terrier that he cherished and referred to as “my boy!”

Graveside services for Donald Gordon will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at the US National Cemetery #1, Fort Scott, Kansas, with the Rev. Paul Babcock officiating.  Military rites will be conducted at the cemetery by the Olson-Frary-Burkhart Post 1165 Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Detail.  Visitation will be 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.

Sandra Lynn Patterson, 49, of Bella Vista, Arkansas passed from this life Tuesday, January 12, 2010. She was born on September 3, 1960 in Kansas City, Missouri, the daughter of Jerrold Clifford and Nancy Jo (Smith) Patterson.

The family lived in Shawnee and Overland Park, Kansas before moving to Ava, Missouri in 1971. On Thanksgiving Day 1973 they relocated to Fort Scott, Kansas. Sandra began volunteer service as a “Candy Striper” at Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott in 1974. She worked her sixteenth birthday as a Mercy Employee in the Emergency Room with Sister Anna Mae. She graduated with the class of 1978 from Fort Scott High School.

She continued working at Mercy Hospital, while a student at Pittsburg State University, and graduated in 1982 with a B.S. Degree in Nursing. She practiced in Oklahoma, Missouri and Kansas. Since moving to Bella Vista, Sandy has worked as a Nursing Supervisor for Vista Health Behavioral Medicine and Psychological Services, Fayetteville, Arkansas. She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Bella Vista, Arkansas.

She is survived by her parents; Cliff and Nancy Patterson of Fort Scott, Kansas, four sisters, Sharon McGaughey of Pollock Pines, California; Brenda DeKeno and Husband, Don of Pea Ridge, Arkansas; Deborah Allen and husband Tim, of Fort Scott, Kansas; Laura Soliday and husband, Daniel of Kansas City, Missouri; Aunt Darlene Patterson Radke and husband, Elmer of Ferndale, Washington; Aunt Rozann Crowder Patterson of Kissimmee, Florida; two nieces, ten nephews, two great nieces, two great nephews, and many cousins.

Memorial services will be held 3:30 p.m. Sunday, January 17, 2010 at the First United Methodist Church of Bella Vista, Arkansas.

Rev. Paul Babcock will conduct graveside services 2:00 p.m. Monday, January 18, 2010 at the Evergreen Cemetery, Fort Scott, Kansas.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Bella Vista, 20 Boyce Drive, Bella Vista, AR 72715, or left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.  Online condolences may be emailed to expressions@konantz-cheney.com.

Freda Marie (Shorten) Kiger, 91, formerly of Fort Scott, Kansas passed away Friday, January 8, 2010 at Heritage Estates in Gering, Nebraska.  Freda was born on June 26, 1918 at Fort Scott, Kansas to Clarence A. and Manilla F. (Elbrader) Shorten. She was raised and graduated from high school in Fort Scott and was one of the few remaining from the Class of 1936. She attended Secretary School for a year.

She worked after school for the State of Kansas Division of Employment. Freda met Darrell Kiger and fell in love and they were united in marriage on February 22, 1941 in Little Rock, Arkansas. To this union was born a son Michael G. Kiger of Tucson, Arizona and a daughter, Phyllis J. Fryer of Gering, Nebraska.

After WWII and Darrell’s graduation from Veterinarian School from Kansas State University, the nomadic family lived and traveled throughout various states and ultimately retired in Gering. After her husband’s death, Freda maintained her Gering home for family and friends. She enjoyed many happy hours with her several bridge groups.

She is survived by her son Mike and wife Mary Lou; daughter Phyllis Fryer and husband Robert; grandson John Fryer of Gering; granddaughter Wynne Phillips of Lakewood, Colorado and several nephews, nieces and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, a brother, and a sister.

Local graveside services will be conducted by Rev. Janet Meyers 1:30 p.m. Friday, January 15, 2010 at the Fort Scott National Cemetery. A visitation will be held at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m., prior to services. Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or to Lions Eye Bank, and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701. 

Elaine Ropp, 56, of Fort Scott, died Saturday morning, January 2, 2010 at the Kansas University Medical Center.  She was born February 24, 1953 in Fort Scott, Kansas the daughter of Hubert Cedric and Cora Louise (Anderson) McCurley.  She married Douglas Ropp October 8, 1972 in Fort Scott, Kansas. He survives of the home.  Elaine graduated from Fort Scott High School with the Class of 1971.

In addition to her husband Doug, Elaine is survived by her children; Trenton Ropp of Raymore, Missouri, Tylerr Ropp of Lawrence, Kansas, and Amanda Smith, also of Lawrence, Kansas, three sisters; Lucille Langdon of Shreveport, Louisiana, Bernie Simmons of Fort Scott, Kansas, and Ann Johnston of Fort Scott, Kansas, two brothers; Cedric McCurley of Clinton, Missouri, and Doug McCurley of Fort Scott, Kansas, and eight grandchildren; Weston, Naomi, Cora, Noah, Jude and Alaina Ropp, and Lincoln and Ainsley Smith. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Joe Griffin will conduct funeral services 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 7, 2010 at the FSCC Fine Arts Center, with burial following at the Maple Grove Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to The Sharing Bucket Care to Share Cancer Support Group of Bourbon County and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701. Condolences may be emailed to expressions@konantz-cheney.com.

Lester Eugene “Les” Hinkley, 90 of Bella Vista, Arkansas formerly of Fort Scott, died Friday January 1, 2010 in Springdale, Arkansas. He was born November 20, 1919 in Neosho County Kansas, the son of Charles Sumner and Nina Pearl (Mix) Hinkley. He married Beth Irene Zimmerman June 20, 1942 in Chicago, Illinois. She preceded him in death August 26, 2004.

Les attended school in Kansas and college in Kansas City, Missouri before joining the Navy, where he served in the States and thru WWII in the Pacific, entering Nagasaki, Japan right after the bombing. After leaving the Navy he was in business in Clinton, Missouri before moving to Fort Scott, Kansas in 1953 where he was owner and manager of Hinkley Beverages, Inc., servicing the four state region of Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

He was active in civic work in Fort Scott, serving as President of the Chamber of Commerce, Fort Scott Country Club, Bourbon County Cancer Society, the parks board, YMCA, and the Community Center. He was a member and Past President of both the Kiwanis Club, and the Clinton Rotary Club. He and Mr. Eakle started the United Fund and also Little League Baseball in Fort Scott. He was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church, the VFW, American Legion Elks Club of Rogers-Bentonville.  He was a member of the Blue Lodge in Fort Scott, Fort Scott Consistory, Mirza Temple, and Nomad Shrine Club of Bella Vista. An avid golfer, Les was for many years Regional Director of the Life Begins at 40 of Harlingen, Texas with members throughout the United States. Beth and Les moved to Bella Vista, Arkansas in the fall of 1985 after retirement.

He is survived by a brother, Dr. Charles ‘Wendell’ Hinkley of Monte Vista, Colorado and his wife Orene, two nephews; Jeff Hinkley and David Hinkley, and a step sister, Mrs. Roberta Page of Lenexa, Kansas. In addition to his wife, Beth, he was preceded in death by his parents, and a step sister, Mrs. Danny Smith.

VFW Chaplain James Stradley will conduct graveside services 1:30 p.m., Friday, January 8, 2010 at the Fort Scott National Cemetery.  Military honors will be conducted by the Olson-Frary-Burkhart Post 1165 Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Detail.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.

Michael L. Buffington, 68, Grove. Oklahoma, died in Grove, Thursday evening, December 31, 2009.  Mike was born in Fort Scott, Kansas the son of Joseph and Vera Leffler Buffington.  He grew up in Fort Scott and graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1959.  He served four years in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1963.  He then received his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Agronomy from Kansas State University. 

Mike spent his entire working career in the agriculture industry where he worked as a well-respected salesman, agronomist and executive.  Mike’s job gave him the opportunity to travel to and live in many parts of the world, including but not limited to Overland Park, Kansas, Phoenix, Arizona, and Brisbane, Australia.  His favorite past times included fishing, traveling and spending time with his grandchildren.

Mike is survived by his wife; Susan of Grove, Oklahoma, three daughters; Jodi Calvert of Monroe, North Carolina, Holly Buffington of Charlotte, North Carolina and Julie LaCombe of Abilene, Kansas, step-daughter; Brenda Walden of Overland Park, Kansas, step-son; Bruce Roach of Tulsa, Oklahoma, nine grandchildren, a brother; Bill Buffington of Nevada, Missouri and a sister Jodi Bell of Edmond, Oklahoma.  In addition to siblings, children and grandchildren, Mike is survived by countless friends and loved ones who will remember and miss his hilarious sense of humor, contagious laugh and wonderful cooking.

Memorial services for Mike will be held at 11:00a.m., Monday January 4, 2010, at the First Baptist Church in Fort Scott, Kansas (123 Scott Ave.).  Memorials may be made to either the Good Shepherd Hospice of Grove, Oklahoma or the American Cancer Society.  Donations may be sent to or left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall St., P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas.  Online condolences may be emailed to expressions@konantz-cheney.com.

Ina Lucille Diehl, 92, formerly of Fort Scott, died early Wednesday morning, December 23, 2009 in Scottsdale, Arizona. She was born March 1, 1917 in Cato, Kansas, the daughter of William Daniel and Bessie Mae (Galea) Engle. She married Ernest Edmond Diehl June 29, 1941 in Bonner Springs, Kansas. He preceded her in death March 18, 1991.

She grew up on a farm near Fort Scott, Kansas attending rural elementary schools and the High School and Junior College in Fort Scott.  She was presented her Teacher’s County Certificate to teach elementary schools on January 28, 1933.  She chose instead to work as secretary to the president of Standard Advertising and Printing Company in Fort Scott until her marriage to Ernest Diehl.  She assisted her husband in their business; Diehl Excavating and Freeman Diehl Asphalt and Paving until their retirement in 1985.  She lived nearly her entire life in Fort Scott and moved to Scottsdale, Arizona in 1993 to be near her daughter and son-in-law.

She is survived by a son-in-law, Laynard Shearer and his wife Cynthia of Scottsdale, Arizona, four nieces; Phyllis Bain of Washougal, Washington, Linda Thornton of Brick, New Jersey, Margaret Eagle of Kansas City, Missouri and Dorothy Hunter of Nacogdoches, Texas, and two nephews; Randy Rector of Fort Scott, Kansas and Steven Aaron of Tell City, Indiana. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Kay Shearer, and three sisters and their husbands; Florence Harris of Washougal, Washington, and Rosetta Rector of Fort Scott, Kansas and Lolita Aaron of Indianapolis, Indiana.

Rev. Paul Babcock will conduct funeral services 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church, with burial following at Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, and left in care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.

Martha Nell Early Zucht McBride, 85, of Fort Scott, Kansas, died Monday morning, December 21, 2009 at the KU Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas. She was born January 16, 1924, in Sledge, Mississippi, the daughter of ‘N.D.’ and Ada Benson (Hughes) Early. She married Earle S. Zucht, Sr. February 1, 1947 in Denton, Texas. He preceded her in death May 16, 1974.  She married Richard Allen McBride August 2, 1978, in Austin, Texas. He preceded her in death July 16, 1990.

She graduated from Brinkley High School in Brinkley, Arkansas in 1941. She graduated from Texas Women’s University in Denton, Texas, and did her graduate work at Northwestern University, Speech and English Majors. She was a secondary school teacher in Austin until her retirement in 1975. She moved to Fort Scott in 1996, and resided at the Presbyterian Village. She was a member of the first Presbyterian Church in Fort Scott and FU Chapter PEO, and a member of the University Christian Church in Austin, Texas for thirty years.

Martha lived life dedicated to her faith and family. Life’s enjoyment included Gin games with grand children and Bridge with dear friends.

Survivors include a daughter, Martha Lee Lorimer of Fort Scott, a son, Earle S. Zucht and his wife Maria of Corona Del Mar, California, and five grand children; Matt Lorimer of Los Angeles, California, Father Dan Lorimer of Lyons, Kansas, Mia Zucht of Newport Beach, California, Drew Lorimer of Nashville, Tennessee, and Anne Lorimer of Auburn, New York.

In addition to her husbands, she was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, George Hughes Early.

A visitation will be held 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Thursday Morning, December 24, 2009 at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Graveside services will be conducted 4:00 p.m. Friday, January 8, 2010, at the Austin Memorial Park Cemetery in Austin, Texas, with her nephew, Robert Early and her grandson, Father Dan Lorimer, officiating. Memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan Fund at the Fort Scott Presbyterian Village and be sent to or left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.

Welcome Mae Van Sickle, 101, of Fulton, Kansas, passed away early Friday, December 18, 2009 at home.  She was born January 7, 1908 northwest of Hume, Missouri, the daughter of Ray and Inez (Umphenour) Hinderliter.

At an early age she moved with her parents to a farm south of Hume.  She attended Amos Elementary School.  She graduated from Hume High School with the class of 1926, Kansas State Teachers College Pittsburg in 1928 with a Life Certificate in Teaching and Pittsburg State University in 1966 with a B.S. in Education.

Her first teaching experience in 1928 was South Indian Creek, a one room school with eight grades and all janitorial duties including caring for a coal burning furnace.  On May 6, 1933 she married Thomas Vincent Van Sickle in Fulton, Kansas.  To this union two sons were born; Tom R. Van Sickle, and Gary L. Van Sickle.  At that period in history when a female teacher married her contract was cancelled.

A few years later World War II began.  There was a shortage of teachers and she was called back into the profession.  She retired in 1973 with thirty-three years, all in Bourbon County, (the last twenty-eight at Fulton and West Liberty).

After her retirement and until Vincent’s death, April 10, 1989, she and her husband enjoyed traveling and visited all states but Alaska.

She was a member of West Liberty United Methodist Church and loved working there.  She served for thirty years as Historian and thirty-six years as Membership Chairman. She taught several years in the Primary Sunday School Department.  She was leader of MYF and the West Liberty 4-H Club, a member of The Quilters and West Liberty U.M.W.  She belonged to Bourbon County Retired Teachers, Kansas State Teachers Association, Kansas National Educators Association and Barnesville Friendly Circle until it closed.

She loved her grandchildren, and great grandchildren who called her, grandma, grandma Sickle and G.G. Her church family and working on the farm with her husband was most important to her.  She was especially proud of her large flower garden where she felt close to God. Her favorite hobby was quilting.

She is survived by her two sons; Tom R. Van Sickle of Sedona, Arizona, and Gary L. Van Sickle and wife; Linda, of Fort Scott, a daughter-in-law; Suzy G. Van Sickle of Scottsdale, Arizona, a brother; Raymond Hinderliter of Fort Scott, a sister; Leota Bruce of Ottawa, Kansas, eight grandchildren; David Van Sickle and wife Lolly Merrill, Jodi Hosken and husband Ken, John Van Sickle and wife Markhabat Muminova, Jill Griffith and husband Terry, Robert Vincent Van Sickle and Liz Dwyer, Rebecca Van Sickle and husband Mark Covek, Matthew Van Sickle and Anna McHugh, and Jeff Van Sickle and wife Tiffany, and eleven great grandchildren; Kenan Hosken, Keon Alejandro Hosken, Taylor Griffith, Karla Hosken, Henry Van Sickle, Jackson Griffith, Kamaria Hosken, Charlie Van Sickle, Amelia Van Sickle, Krista Hosken and Kyra Hosken.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a sister; Winona Hinderliter.

Rev. Janet Myers will conduct funeral services 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at the West Liberty United Methodist Church, with burial following in the West Liberty Cemetery.  Visitation is Monday evening from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the West Liberty United Methodist Church or to the FSCC Endowment Scholarship Fund and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309,Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.  Online condolences may be emailed to expressions@konantz-cheney.com.

Velma Ernestine Rocher, 90, passed away December 10, 2009 at Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott, Kansas.

She was born January 22, 1919 in Elkhart, Texas to Bryant Lee and Lillie Dorma (Brooks) Brooks.  On January 19, 1940 she was united in marriage to Alfred Joseph Rocher in Mangum, Oklahoma . She was retired from Key Work Clothes.  When she was active, she loved to garden, sew, knit, crochet, and cook.

Survivors include a daughter, Karen Rocher of Fort Scott, and several nephews.  Velma was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred Rocher, on April 27, 1991, her parents, an infant daughter, a son; Tom Rocher, a brother; L.H. Brooks; two sisters; Nancy Ann Vaughan, and Dortha Falkner, a nephew; Garland Vaughan, and a niece; Rhonda Kay Wilson.

Friends may call from 8:00 am until 9:00 p.m. Monday December 14 and Tuesday December 15 to sign the register book at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.  Burial is at the Evergreen Cemetery. A private family memorial will be held. She was a beloved mother and will be greatly missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Community of Christ Church and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.  Online condolences may be emailed to the family at expressions@konantz-cheney.com.

LaDonna Maxine DeLaney, 63, of Fort Scott, Kansas, died Wednesday, November 04, 2009 at the Medicalodge of Fort Scott.  She was born September 13, 1946 in Independence, Kansas, the daughter of Donald Bengerman and Nora Madeline (Ewing) DeLaney.

Survivors include a daughter; Donna Jean Carson of Fort Scott, a son; Stephen Allen Foss of Fort Collins, Colorado, a sister; Jean Nicoles of Fort Scott, four brothers; Martin Claspill of Seattle, Washington, Larry DeLaney, of Nevada, Missouri, Douglas DeLaney, of Louisburg, Kansas, and Donald DeLaney of Fort Scott, and three grandchildren; Megan Smith, Malachi Foss, and Shané Carson.  She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers; Eugene Claspill, Ronald DeLaney, and Marvin Claspil, and one sister; Virginia Ewing.

Pastor Jim Casselman will conduct funeral services 1:30 p.m. Monday, November 9, 2009 at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, with burial following at the Evergreen Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the LaDonna DeLaney Memorial Fund and left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.  Online condolences may be emailed to the family at expressions@konantz-cheney.com.

Shirley Geraldine VanMeter, 88, of Walnut, Kansas, died Wednesday morning, November 4, 2009 at the Fort Scott Manor.  She was born November 11, 1920 in Redfield, Kansas the daughter of George Garfield and Clara Mae (McCollum) Neth.  She married Charles Francis VanMeter July 26, 1941 in Fort Scott.  He preceded her in death April 24, 1979.

Shirley owned and operated the Porterville Upholstery Shop and the Porterville Machine Quilting Shop. She loved her family, and loved to garden, fish, read, sew, and do needlework, as well as quilting.  She enjoyed crafting and woodburning also. 

She was the secretary/treasurer for the Porterville Community Center, and the Porterville Help-A-Hand Club. She also was on the board for Rosedale Cemetery Association as Secretary/Treasurer for many years.

She is survived by her children; Charles J. VanMeter and Marie of Walnut, KS, Linda L. VanMeter, also of Walnut, KS, and Judy Micus and Michael of Neodesha, KS, six grandchildren; Jeffery Glen VanMeter of Morrow Bay, CA, Christian Michael VanMeter of Joshua Tree, CA, Katrina Marie Guindon of Riverside, CA, Maria Christine Hailey of Lakeville, MN, Amber Jean Billquist of Tonganoxie, KS, and Amy Jo Marlow of Wichita, KS, and fourteen great-grandchildren.  In addition to her husband, Charles, she was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters; Beulah N. Holt, Dora E. Hall, and Echo Mae Russell, one brother; Holland Neth, and a son; Tony Mack VanMeter.

Rev. Paul Babcock will conduct funeral services 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 7, 2009 at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home with burial following at the Rosedale Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Friday evening November 6, 2009 at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.  Online condolences may be emailed to the family at expressions@konantz-cheney.com.

Terry Dwayne Feldhut, infant son of Delbert Ray and Crystal Suzanna (Keith) Feldhut, of Fort Scott, was stillborn early Saturday morning, October 31, 2009.

Survivors include his parents, his maternal grandparents; Bill and Ruby Keith, of rural Fort Scott, paternal grandmother; Bobbi Burtness of Shelby, Montana, paternal grandfather; Roy Feldhut of Mulberry, Kansas, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

His uncle, Brian Keith, will officiate graveside services 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at the Centerville Cemetery.  Family and friends will meet at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home at 10:00 a.m. and leave for the cemetery at 10:30.