Enid ‘Peggy’ J. Gordon, age 99, of Topeka passed away Sunday, May 27, 2018 at Meriden.

Peggy was born March 25, 1919 in South English, Iowa the daughter of Samuel and Maude Starkey McNeal. She graduated from high school in Richland Center, Wisconsin. She married Orville McCauley, they later divorced. She married Harlan Hoover, they later divorced. She then married Willis Gordon Sr., he preceded her in death. She is survived by two sons, Roger (Linda) McCauley of Topeka and Alan D. Hoover of Corsicana, Texas; one granddaughter; two step granddaughters and many great grandchildren. Peggy loved to crochet. She was a member and local past champion in 1954 of the American Women’s Bowling Association.

Funeral services will be Friday, June 1, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at the Davidson Funeral Home. She will lie in state Thursday from 1:00- 8:00 p.m. with visitation from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Davidson Funeral Home. Interment will be at the Prairie Home Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels and sent in care of the Davidson Funeral Home. davidsonfuneral.com.

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Cole Jarod Murphy, 18, Hays, was arrested at 1:37 a.m. May 26 in the 100 block of Main on suspicion of underage purchase/possession/consumption of alcohol.

Connie Michelle Dodson, 55, Hays, was arrested at 9:33 p.m. May 27 in the 200 block of East 15th on suspicion of domestic battery.

William Joshua Plante, 29, Hays, was arrested at 8:40 p.m. May 25 in the 2100 block of Canal on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and criminal deprivation of property.

Donnel Bourland, 57, Hays, was arrested at 11:27 p.m. May 27 in the 400 block of East 19th on suspicion of aggravated domestic battery.

Douglas Anthony Marcum, 35, Hays, was arrested at 3:15 p.m. May 27 in the 4500 block of Larned Circle on suspicion of criminal damage to property.

Mark Allen Miller, 46, Larned, was arrested at 6:38 p.m. May 27 in Rush County on suspicion of domestic battery.

Rickie Khiry Porter, 28, Hays, was arrested at 3:23 a.m. May 27 in the 1100 block of East 15th on suspicion of drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Dacota Scott Logan Kimber, 20, Hays, was arrested at 1:20 p.m. May 24 in the 100 block of West 12th on suspicion of drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Brandon Lee Cornell, 20, Hays, was arrested at 10:50 a.m. May 24 in the 600 block of West 13th on suspicion of drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Rita Wolf, 86, Hays, died Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at HaysMed.

Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Marilyn A. Hullinger-Weikle, 60, Manfield, Ohio, was arrested at 9:02 a.m. May 30 in the 3800 block of Vine on suspicion of aggravated battery, domestic battery, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal damage to property and interference with a law enforcement official.

Leslie E. “Les” Gross – age 71, of Munjor, Kansas, died Thursday, May 31, 2018, at Hays Medical Center, Hays, Kansas.

Services are pending at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.

Rita Marie Wolf, 86, Hays, died Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at HaysMed.

She was born October 2, 1931, on the family farm near Severin, Kansas, the daughter of Nick and Philomene (Dreiling) Rohleder. The fourth of seven children, Rita quickly learned the essence of hard work and the importance of family and God. She graduated from Girls Catholic High School in 1949 and resided in Hays. On June 6, 1951, Rita was united in marriage to Gerald “Jerry” Wolf of Schoenchen at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Emmeram. He preceded her in death on August 20, 1998.

She was a homemaker and worked for 14 years as a cook manager for USD 489 at Roosevelt Grade School. She also gave of her time volunteering at the ARC Thrift Shop for 36 years and the Hays Medical Center Hospital Auxiliary for 20 years. She was a member of Daughters of Isabella and Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.
Survivors include two daughters; DeBra Prideaux of Hays, Susan Hamilton and husband Rick of Hastings, NE, one son; Gerard Wolf of Hays, four grandchildren; Lola Baalman, Michelle Terry, Miranda Rakes, and Nathan Hamilton, 15 great-grandchildren; Aidan, Miles, Tucker, Kendall, Courtney, Peyton, Paige, Paxton, Payvn, Konor, Kooper, Landyn, Lauryn, Adalyn, and Kaidyn, and one brother; Valerius Rohleder.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Gerald, one brother; Ronald Rohleder, and four sisters; Petronella Graf, Theresa Von Lintel, Josita Pfannenstiel, and Mary Jane Polifka.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Monday, June 4, 2018 at Immaculate Heart of Mary, 1805 Vine Street, Hays, with Fr. Barry Brinkman officiating. A private burial will take place at a later date in the St. Joseph Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm until 7:00 on Sunday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, 1906 Pine Street, Hays. A rosary and vigil service will be at 6:00 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Gerald “Jerry” and Rita Wolf Scholarship at Fort Hays State University established in the construction science arena or for masses in care of the funeral home. Condolences and memories of Rita may be left at www.haysmemorial.com

Candra Jo Shinn, age 51, of Wichita, KS, formerly of Stockton, KS, died Saturday May 26, 2018 at St. Francis Via Christi Campus, Wichita, KS.

She was born September 28, 1966 in Plainville, KS to Roy Lee and Rosalea (Maddox) Palmer.  She graduated from Stockton High School in 1985. She married Harold Shinn May 25, 1985 and they later divorced.

Candra graduated from Hays Academy of Hair Design in 1987 and operated Candra’s Hair Design for several years in Stockton before she went on to nursing school where she received her RN license.  She worked at Solomon Valley Manor in Stockton, KS, Phillipsburg Manor in Phillipsburg, KS, and Plainville Rural Hospital in Plainville, KS before she relocated to Wichita, KS.

Survivors include her three children, Son Cassidy Palmer, Downs, KS,  Daughters,  Sharrelle Shinn, Norton, KS and Bryanna Smith, Newton, KS;  her significant other, Danny Burnett ,Wichita, KS;  two brothers, Ray (Chris) Palmer, Hays, KS, and Mack (Angie) Palmer, Stockton, KS;  two sisters,  Carlene Pelster, Elgin, NE, and Kathy (Brian) Maughan, Meadow Grove, NE;  Two very dear friends,  Roberta and Nancy Wichita, KS, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy Lee and Rosalea Palmer; her grandparents, Merritt and Ollie Mae Maddox, and George and Mable Palmer; and niece Courtney Pelster.

Graveside Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday June 16, 2018, at the Stockton Cemetery, Stockton, KS with Jeff Miller officiating.

Ashley Frances Wolf was born Aug. 7, 1991 in Quinter, Kan. She was the youngest child of Steve and Brenda Wolf of Grinnell. Ashley passed away Thursday, May 31 2018 in Hays at the age of 26.

Ashley Frances Wolf

Ashley attended Grinnell Elementary and Jr. High and Oakley High School where she graduated in 2010. Ashley received services from many amazing educational professionals through the Northwest Kansas Educational Service Center.

Ashley was a member of the VFW Auxiliary # 1361 and was an Athlete of the Special Olympics of Northwest Kansas. She enjoyed working at Hometown Grocery and Checkers and His in Grinnell. She greatly enjoyed spending her free time down at the Senior Citizen Center in Grinnell where she would do exercises and play the Wii game. Ashley was also an active member of the Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas.

Ashley was always smiling and could light up any room. She had an incredible impact on anyone who met her. Ashley never let her cerebral palsy define who she was or what she could accomplish.

Ashley was preceded in death by her paternal grandmother, Marlene Wolf; maternal grandparents, Lawrence ‘Lavern’ Coker and Frances Carlman; uncle Timothy Coker; and twin infant siblings.

Ashley is survived by her parents, Steve and Brenda (Coker-Carlman) Wolf of Grinnell; a brother Brandon (Sarah) Wolf of Colby; a Niece Bailey Wolf and Nephew Axten Wolf; paternal grandfather, Melvin Wolf of Grinnell; paternal aunts, Pat (Dave) Farris of Nixa, Mo., and Melanie (James) Slayton of Tyler Texas; paternal uncles, Rick (Marcie) Wolf of Grinnell and Anthony (Judy) Wolf of Quinter; maternal aunts, Marie (Don) Taylor of Great Bend and Cynthia (Dave) Ortman of Mankato; and many other aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Monday, June 4, 2018, at the Immaculate Conception Parish Hall, Grinnell, Kan., with a vigil at 7 p.m. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Grinnell, with burial to follow in the church cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Grinnell Senior Center or the Ashley Wolf Memorial Fund, in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 204, Oakley, KS 67748. For condolences or information, visit www.baalmannmortuary.com

Marilyn J. Hockersmith, 71, of Oakley, died Wednesday, May 30, 2018. She was born July 1, 1946, in Colby, KS, to Ralph and Armella (Lintel) Kruse. Marilyn graduated from Oakley High School. On December 27, 1962, she married Lanny Hockersmith, in Oakley. Together they made a life farming. Not only was she a wonderful farm wife, but an amazing cook, gardener, quilter, and artist. There wasn’t a role she couldn’t fill. Her family was her top priority, especially spending time with her grand-kids. Her home was a gathering place where she enjoyed hosting. She has taught us about unconditional love, forgiveness, strength and faith. Her selflessness was apparent to anyone that knew her, always willing to help. Much of the community remembers painting ceramics in her shop, H&H Ceramics. She also loved sharing her knowledge of gardening by working at Golden Plains Garden Center in Colby, KS. Marilyn’s great strength was evident in her fight against cancer. She was surrounded by loved ones at home during her last days.

She was preceded in death by her father Ralph and grandparents, Ben and Carrie Kruse and Herman and Mary Lintel.

Marilyn is survived by her husband Lanny; mother Armella Kruse; children, Troy (Jeanette) Hockersmith, J.R. Hockersmith, Clinton (Michele) Hockersmith and September (Brent) Mariman; siblings, Karol (Terry) Swart, Rodney (Mary Lou) Kruse, Ralph (Cheri) Kruse, Connie Renner, Berny (Missy) Kruse, Janice (late Rod) Wilkening and Robert (Chan) Kruse and grandchildren, Alex Benitez, Hannah Hockersmith, Jordon (Barbara) Hockersmith, Kayla (Nick) Hanna, Kenzie Hockersmith, Corey, Carsyn and Luke Hockersmith, Tanner and Nathan Lee and Jake Mariman.

Visitation is 3-5:00 p.m. Sunday, June 3, 2018, at Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley, with a Vigil at 5 p.m. Funeral Mass is 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 4, 2018, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Oakley, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph School, in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 204, Oakley, KS 67748. For condolences or information visit www.baalmannmortuary.com

Timothy Charles “Tim” Fry passed away on Thursday, May 31, 2018 after sustaining injuries from a motorcycle accident, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, at the age of 63. He was born on December 16, 1954 in Leavenworth, Kansas to the late Charles and Dora (Luttrell) Fry. On October 16, 1971 he was united in marriage to Roberta Lynn Selbe at the home of Roberta’s parents in Plainville, Kansas. They were blessed with two children, Kandie and Shane. They later divorced.

Tim worked most of his adult life in the oilfield. Always one to enjoy a good time, he not only worked hard, he played hard as well. Being out on his Harley, traveling to wherever the road took him, and spending time with family and friends, were the highlights of his life. Of course his grandchildren always held a special place in his heart reserved only for them.

Tim is survived by his children Kandie Morain and husband Roy of Plainville, and Shane Fry and wife Mandy of Plainville; brothers Darell Fry and wife Pam of Kansas City, Lynn Fry of Des Moines, IA, and Eddie Fry of Kansas City; sisters Kathy Richardson and husband Ken of Tonganoxie, and Mary Beth Sharpe and husband Ted of Kansas City; grandchildren Dominic, Alexis, Jami, Jenna, Kyron, Kane, and Braelynn; and great-grandchild Kaisley.

He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Dora Fry, brother Edward Fry, sister Cheryl Stevens, and former spouse Roberta Fry.

Tim died just as he lived, with his boots on. Never one to slow down, he loved living life to the fullest, and in the fast lane; but his tender heart and joyful spirit always shown through to those he loved the most. Until we see him again, he will be greatly missed, as he rolls up yonder, riding on to a better place.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00am on Monday, June 4, 2018 at the United Methodist Church in Plainville. Burial will follow in Plainville City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00-8:00pm on Sunday at the funeral home in Plainville with family receiving friends from 2:00-3:00pm.

Donald P. Werth, 85, Hays, died Friday, June 1, 2018 at Via Christi Village.

He was born February 2, 1933 on the family farm near Schoenchen, Kansas one of eleven children to Wendelin W. and Brigitta (Dinges) Werth.   On October 11, 1955 he was united in marriage to Charlotte A. Herl in Munjor, Kansas, a union that would span over 62 years.  He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War and a farmer, oil pumper, cattleman, and dairyman.  Memberships include St. Joseph Catholic Church, the third degree Knights of Columbus Council #4166 in Schoenchen, and the Hays VFW Post #9076.  He enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, fishing, walking and exercise, driving around and seeing friends and family, helping at harvest time, and was an avid Kansas City Royals fan.  He loved spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife; Charlotte of the home, three sons; Ronald L. Werth and wife Mary Margaret of Hutchinson, Richard J. Werth and Janice Goff of Hays, and Randal C. Werth and wife Michelle of Hays, a daughter; Renee Michaud and husband Gerard of Hays, three brothers; Linus Werth of Victoria, LeRoy Werth, Sr. and wife Christa of Schoenchen, and Paul Werth and wife Donna of Great Bend, three sisters; Laura Klaus of Hays, Clarice Stoecklein of Ness City, and Dorothy Moeder and husband John of Hays, seven grandchildren; Anne Werth, Phillip Werth, Ryan Werth, Jennifer Werth, Randi Gerstner and husband Derek, Monica Michaud and Hannah Michaud, eleven great grandchildren; Trexton Murphy, Kaycee Murphy, Keegan Copelan, Bryson Werth, Corbin Werth, Weston Werth, Maxwell Gerstner, Dalton Werth, Zoe Gerstner, Bentley Gerstner, and Atlas Werth, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother; Ralph Werth, Sr., and three sisters; LaVera Schuckman, Joyce Klaus, and Mary Catherine Barnes.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 215 W. 13^th, Hays, with Fr. Fred Gatschet officiating.  Burial will follow with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard in the St. Joseph Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 8:00 on Tuesday and from 9:30 am until 10:45 on Wednesday, all at the Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, 1906 Pine Street.  A parish vigil service will be at 6:30 pm followed by a Knights of Columbus Council #4166 rosary at 7:00, both on Tuesday at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, St. Joseph Catholic Church, or for masses, in care of the funeral home.  Condolences for the family and memories of Donald may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

Eldon Schmidtberger, age 85, of Victoria, Kansas died Saturday, June 2, 2018, at his home.

Services are pending at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.

Condolences can be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or can be sent via e-mail to clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net

Russell M. O’Donnell, age 78, of Largo, Florida, died Monday, May 28, 2018.

He was born March 26, 1940, in Chicago, IL to Thomas W. and Lillian M. (Shersh) O’Donnell. He married Patricia Ann (Denning) on October 15, 1966 at Gorham, Kansas. She preceded him in death on April 30, 1995.

He was an engineer in telecommunications field and retired from A T & T in 1995. He then went back to work until 2003 and moved to Largo Florida. He was a 1959 graduate of the Reavis High School in Burbank, IL. He was veteran of the US Air Force from 1996-1965.

Survivors include two sons, Shan O’Donnell and wife, Allison, Oklahoma City, OK; Russell O’Donnell and wife, Lynn, Poplar Grove, IL; four grandchildren, Shaa, Taylaa, Russell Jr. and Noah O’Donnell; one brother-in-law, Clarence Denning and wife, Marilyn, Colby, KS; two sisters-in-law, Judy Lohrmeyer and husband, Mike, Russell, KS; Mary Bender, Great Bend, KS.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; one sister, Mary and one brother, Jake; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Alphonse and Clara (Hoff) Denning.

Services will be at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, June 6. 2018, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Gorham, Kansas. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Gorham, Kansas with military honors by the Victoria V.F.W. Post No. 1751.

Visitation will be form 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671 and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Gorham, Kansas.

A vigil service will be at 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, Victoria, Kansas.

The family suggest memorial to St. Mary Cemetery, Gorham, Kansas.

Condolences can be left by guestbook at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or can be sent e-mail to clinesmortaury@eaglecom.net

Judith “Judy” Nelson (Dawes), 68, of Colby, formerly of Oakley, KS, died Friday, June 1, 2018 at Citizens Medical Center in Colby, KS. She was born November 16, 1949 to Floyd and Juanita (Messer) Dawes. Judy worked in healthcare for many years until her health wouldn’t allow her to. She was a member of the The Church of Christ in Colby, very proud to be baptized in 2012. She loved to bake with her grandkids, watch soap operas every day and being around family as much as she could. Also getting out on Sunday for church and lunch with her sisters, and listening to bop shop Saturdays, every Saturday morning.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; Floyd and Juanita Dawes, her husband; DuWayne “Skeeter” Nelson, granddaughter; Karyn Friend (Gillispie), brother-in-law; Milton “Moe” Goldsworth, and nephew; Bruce “BJ” Goldsworth.

Survivors include: her kids; Jeff (Amy) Nelson, Colby, Jennifer (fiancé Tanner) Turner, Colby, sister; Tamara Goldsworth, Colby, brother; Deveron (Myla) Dawes, Oakley, sister; Suesie (Rick) Rosbaugh, Ellenton, FL, several grandkids, nieces, many other close family and friends.

Cremation was chosen. There will be no visitation. A memorial service will be at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 6, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby. Memorials are suggested to the Judith K. Nelson Memorial Fund, in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information and condolences, visit www.baalmannmortuary.com

Kenneth J. Staggs Jr., 81, died on Tuesday, May 29, 2018, in Wilson, Kansas, at the Wilson Care and Rehabilitation Center.

Kenneth was born on March 17, 1937, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the son of Kenneth J. Sr. and Vida S. (Bell) Staggs. He served his country by enlisting in the Army National Guard. He graduated with a Bachelors degree from Ft. Hays State University and achieved his Masters of Science degree from Colorado State University. He worked as a social worker working with people who were handicapped.

Surviving family include his daughter Kimberly Berdan of Greeley, Colorado, 4 brothers and 2 sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, June 05, 2018 at Prairie Lawn Cemetery in Gorham, Kansas. Cremation has been selected and there will be no visitation. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Wilmetta Irene Gideon, 76, of Russell, Kansas, died on Saturday, June 2, 2018 at the Russell Regional Hospital in Russell, Kansas.

Wilmetta was born on April 22, 1942, in WaKeeney, Kansas, the daughter of John W. and Pauline (Rohn) Dietz. She grew up in the Trego County and WaKeeney area and graduated from Trego Community High School in the class of 1960. She met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Glenn Gideon on September 09, 1960, in Hays, Kansas, and they moved to Russell, Kansas, in 1962. From this union Wilmetta and Glenn were blessed with 3 daughters Donna, Doris and Cheryl. She worked at Baxter Labs, United Telephone and worked as a bank teller at the Russell State Bank and United National Bank (Southwind Bank) for 23 years and retired in 2005. Her favorite job was fulltime wife, mother and homemaker for her loving family. She was a member of St. John Lutheran Church and volunteered at the Russell Hospital Auxiliary. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, cake decorating and catering, flower gardening, bingo and working with crafts. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and watching them play in sporting events.

Surviving family include her husband of 58 years Glenn Gideon of the home, three daughters Donna Bauer of Burlington, Kansas, Doris Jackson & husband Keith of Topeka, Kansas and Cheryl Prester & husband Brad of Russell, Kansas; brother Delmar Dietz and wife Diane of WaKeeney, Kansas; 7 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Ernest and Alvin Dietz, sister Frieda Mohr and son in-law Bill Bauer.

A celebration of Wilmetta’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at St. John Lutheran Church in Russell, Kansas, with Pastor Roger Dennis Officiating. Burial will follow at the Russell City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 A. M. to 8 P.M. on Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at the mortuary with the family present to greet guests from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M. Tuesday evening. Memorials may be given to St John Lutheran Church or Russell Regional Hospital Auxiliary and sent in care of the mortuary. Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Donald P. Werth, 85, Hays, died Friday, June 1, 2018 at Via Christi Village.

He was born February 2, 1933 on the family farm near Schoenchen, Kansas one of eleven children to Wendelin W. and Brigitta (Dinges) Werth. On October 11, 1955 he was united in marriage to Charlotte A. Herl in Munjor, Kansas, a union that would span over 62 years. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War and a farmer, oil pumper, cattleman, and dairyman. Memberships include St. Joseph Catholic Church, the third degree Knights of Columbus Council #4166 in Schoenchen, and the Hays VFW Post #9076. He enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, fishing, walking and exercise, driving around and seeing friends and family, helping at harvest time, and was an avid Kansas City Royals fan. He loved spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife; Charlotte of the home, three sons; Ronald L. Werth and wife Mary Margaret of Hutchinson, Richard J. Werth and Janice Goff of Hays, and Randal C. Werth and wife Michelle of Hays, a daughter; Renee Michaud and husband Gerard of Hays, three brothers; Linus Werth of Victoria, LeRoy Werth, Sr. and wife Christa of Schoenchen, and Paul Werth and wife Donna of Great Bend, three sisters; Laura Klaus of Hays, Clarice Stoecklein of Ness City, and Dorothy Moeder and husband John of Hays, seven grandchildren; Anne Werth, Phillip Werth, Ryan Werth, Jennifer Werth, Randi Gerstner and husband Derek, Monica Michaud and Hannah Michaud, eleven great grandchildren; Trexton Murphy, Kaycee Murphy, Keegan Copelan, Bryson Werth, Corbin Werth, Weston Werth, Maxwell Gerstner, Dalton Werth, Zoe Gerstner, Bentley Gerstner, and Atlas Werth, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother; Ralph Werth, Sr., and three sisters; LaVera Schuckman, Joyce Klaus, and Mary Catherine Barnes.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 215 W. 13th, Hays, with Fr. Fred Gatschet officiating. Burial will follow with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard in the St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 8:00 on Tuesday and from 9:30 am until 10:45 on Wednesday, all at the Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, 1906 Pine Street. A parish vigil service will be at 6:30 pm followed by a Knights of Columbus Council #4166 rosary at 7:00, both on Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, St. Joseph Catholic Church, or for masses, in care of the funeral home. Condolences for the family and memories of Donald may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

Leslie E. “Les” Gross, age 71, of Munjor, Kansas, died Thursday, May 31, 2018, at Hays Medical Center, Hays, Kansas.

He was born February 2, 1947, in Hays, Kansas to Joseph J. “Joe” and Rose (Pfannenstiel) Gross. He married Linda Faye (Weigel) on November 16, 1968, in Hays, Kansas.

He worked in the oil fields all of his life, starting with R.C. Williams for 20 years. He was co-owner of 4-Way Trucking for ten years, then worked for Murfin Drilling, out of the Colby, Kansas office for eight years and retired in 2012. He was a 1965 graduate of Hays High School and served six years in the U S Army Reserves. He was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus Council #11492 both of Munjor, Kansas. He enjoyed traveling, going on fishing trips ,the casinos, the Royals, the Chiefs, KU basketball, his children, his grandchildren and the grandkids activities.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Gross, of the home; one son, Len Gross and wife, Patricia, Dumas, TX; two daughters, LaNae Lang and husband, Greg, Hays, KS; LaShana Hunt and husband, Troy, Lawrence, KS; one son-in-law, Thomas Callahan, Frisco, TX; ten grandchildren: Hannah and Sean Callahan; Michael, Patelynn and Emily Gross; Halle, Ethan and Mia Lang; Dallas and Olivia Hunt; two brothers, Vernon Gross and wife, Jeannie, Hays, KS, Jerry Gross and wife, Sylvia, Munjor, KS; four sisters, JoAnn Dreiling and husband, Norman, Victoria, KS; Kay Von Lintel and husband, Dennis, Vincent, KS ;Geraldine Kindel and husband, Don, Victoria, KS; Mary Anderson and husband, Troy, Victoria, KS.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Lynette Callahan; three brothers, Leon Gross and wife, Joyce; Harold Gross and wife, Viola; Kenny Gross and wife, Shirley; one sister, Patty Dreiling and husband, Verlin; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Albinus and Velma (Von Lintel) Weigel.

Services will be at 10:00 A.M. Monday, June 4, 2018, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Munjor, Kansas. Burial in St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery, Munjor, Kansas with military honors by the Hays V.F.W. Post No. 9076.

Visitation is from 4:00 to 9:00 P.M. Sunday, and from 8:30 to 9:30 A.M. Monday, all at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.

A Knights of Columbus rosary will be at 6:30 P.M. Sunday, flowed by vigil service at 7:00 P.M. Sunday, both at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.

The family suggests memorials to the Munjor Knights of Columbus, the Munjor Christian Mothers or St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.

Condolences can be left by guestbook at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or can be sent e-mail to clinesmortaury@eaglecom.net

Perry D. Preusch, age 89, passed away on Friday, May 25, 2018 at the Monte Vista Grove Home in Pasadena, California. He was born on August 1, 1928 in Halstead, Kansas, the son of Robert O. & Esther Thone Preusch of Healy, Kansas, the youngest of five children. He attended the Healy schools until his junior year in high school when he transferred to Scott Community High School in the neighboring town of Scott City, graduating in 1946. After three years at the University of Kansas he transferred to the University of Southern California where he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree and continued postgraduate work in Finance.

Perry served in the Korean War with the 186th Finance Disbursing Section and spent fifteen months in Kobe, Japan.

He spent his business career as an Investment Counselor and Portfolio Manager. He managed accounts for Trusts, Banks, States and publicly traded mutual funds and managed the Transamerica Casualty Company portfolio. Perry retired from Transamerica in 1993 and continued as a consultant for the Transamerica funds for an additional year.

On June 2, 1953, Perry married Nancy Lee VanAntwerp of Scott City, Kansas. They have made their home in the Pasadena, California area since that time. He was involved with various business organizations, a member of the Presbyterian Church serving as Elder, Trustee and Deacon, and was Treasurer of the San Marino Community Church and President of the church Foundation Board and the Board at Monte Vista Grove.

Perry is survived by his wife of 65 years, three daughters, Lisa Hitchcock, Lori Preusch and Lynn Roach, two son-in-laws Charlie Patterson and Joe Roach, five grandchildren, Michael, Stephen, Nadia, Kathryn, Cameron and one great grandson, Sage. He enjoyed tennis and gardening.

Funeral Services will be held at Price & Sons Funeral Home in Scott City, Kansas at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 8, 2018 with Rev. John Lewis presiding.

In Lieu Of Flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

Interment will be in the Scott County Cemetery in Scott City, Kansas

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Price & Sons Funeral Home in Scott City.

Marvin John Speier passed away on May 30, 2018 at the McCrite Plaza.

He was born in Hays, Kansas on September 11, 1928. He is the son of John and Monica (Dechant) Speier. He was married to Barbara Diehl Speier May 30, 1952. She preceded him in death January 18, 1993. He was married to Mary Darleen Urbaczka Shaver on April 16, 1994 who predeceased him on November 22, 2017. He is survived by five children, Gerald M. (Rose) Speier of Topeka, Kansas, Cynthia M. Speier (Rick) McIntyre of Newtown, Connecticut, James R. (Kathy) Speier of Berryton, Kansas, Steven A. (Sheryl) Speier of Topeka, Kansas, and Bruce T. Speier of Valley Falls, Kansas, and three grandchildren, Brandon McIntyre, Alyssa McIntyre, and Aaron Speier. He was also predeceased by his sister, Alvera A. Brown and his parents.

Mr. Speier attended school at St. Joseph Grade School in Hays, Kansas and then graduated from St. Joseph Military Academy (now known as Thomas More Prep) in 1946. He received an A.B. degree in History, graduating from Ft. Hays State University in 1958. This was followed by post graduate work at Kansas State University and Emporia State University.

Mr. Speier entered the field of education in 1948 at Pleasant Ridge School in Severin, Kansas. This was followed by a tour in the Army in 1950 to 1953. During his military career, he attended various Army schools concerning military science and tactics. He received a commission as an officer from Officer Candidate School in Fort Benning, Georgia in May of 1952, having served in various military units and capacities in Fort Hood, Texas, Camp Roberts, California, and Fort Ord, California. In 1952, he served as Company Executive Officer 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division in Hokkaido, Japan and served during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged in October of 1953, and resumed his teaching career at Glasco, Kansas and Horton, Kansas finishing his 32 years teaching career at Topeka, having taught at Crane Jr. High, Capper Junior High, and Topeka West High School.

Over the years, Mr. Speier was involved in many businesses, The House of Clocks which he owned and operated for 23 years and he also owned Timberline Unfinished Furniture. He was also involved in farming, real estate, and other enterprises.

Mr. Speier enjoyed extensive travels abroad. He and Darleen spent over twenty years wintering in Sun City, Arizona.

He is a member of Christ the King Catholic Church in Topeka, Kansas and has a membership in the Knights of Columbus, being a Charter Member of Council No. 8411 at Christ the King Catholic Church, and the Fourth Degree Assembly of the K of C, lifetime member of the National Education Association, and the Lions and Moose Clubs. He was founder and Scout Master of Troop 111 in Hays, Kansas.

Marvin was a KU Jayhawk, KC Royals and KC Chiefs fan. He enjoyed golfing, remodeling, construction, and keeping up on military affairs.

Marvin will lie in state at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home on Monday after 2:00 p.m. where a Parish Rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m. followed by a 4th Degree Knights of Columbus Chalice Ceremony. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church. Interment will follow with full military honors at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Topeka.

Memorial contributions may be made to Thomas More Prep High School in Hays, Kansas or Christ the King Catholic Church and sent in the care of Brennan Mathena Funeral Home. 800 SW 6th Ave. Topeka, Kansas 66603. To leave online condolences or fond memories, please visit www.brennanmathenafh.com