Sawyer Funeral Home Obituaries - Eulogy Assistant (2024)

Obituary Preview: Max Hamilton Byram, 28 of Council Grove, Kansas, was in a fatal motorcycleaccident onJuly 28th, 2021. He was born and raised in Council Grove. Growing up on a farm taught Max how to be a hard worker. As a kid he loved games of all kinds, making art, and just being goofy. He learned to play the guitar when he was in high school and never stopped.

His career in the food industry began at the Hays House. In 2017 Max started BG’s Bar and Grill with Harley Grimmett. Being co-owner of BG’s made it easy for him to share his skill of hospitality. His warm spirit is what made BG’s a place people wanted to be, even if it meant smelling like a slider.

Before BG’s, Max graduated from CGHS then from Cloud County Community College with a degree in Wind Energy Technology. Beyond his degree, Max took multiple music courses and formed his first band, Call It A Night. As time progressed Max went on to become the lead singer for The Box Turtles and band member of Derek Calvin and The All Nighters. Creating music was one of Max’s greatest joys but encouraging others’ music was also important to him. He built and founded Diesel Bro’s Studio for recording local talent.

Max was passionate about supporting all the arts. Being President of the Council Grove Arts Council was one way he encouraged the arts. In 2017 Max founded Seth Fest, a free music and arts festival promoting local artists. He was also involved in Kansas Free for Arts in Emporia.

At the end of his life Max was running for Mayor of Council Grove. He believed in his community, his friends and neighbors. He truly felt that Council Grove was the best place on the planet. He wanted to not only build the community but each individual in it. Although he cannot fulfill the job of Mayor, it would make him proud to see others becoming involved in our community. Beyond running for Mayor he was involved with CG softball club, Washunga Days, City of CG Sales Tax Grant Committee, City of CG 4thof July committee, Community Theatre, Chamber of Commerce, and self-proclaimed Master of the Post.

Max brought a lot of love and laughter into the world. He didn’t know a stranger; he was a friend to all. He could fill your soul with his music, lift your spirits with his smile, and fill your belly with his delicious cooking. He will be truly missed.

He was preceded in death by his grandmas, Loretta Keyser and Georgine Byram. Max is survived by his daughter, Georgia Byram; wife, Cali Byram; Grandparents, Melvin & Lucy Keyser, Harold Byram; Parents, Harry & Melanie Byram; Sisters, Anneliese (Jay) Troxell, Mary (Aaron) Byram Yoder; Nieces & Nephews, Ada, Elmer, Daphne, Wallace.

There will be a private funeral and burial. This year at Seth Fest, a public memorial service will be heldSaturday, August 21from 10am-12pm, located at the Riverwalk Amphitheater (14 W Main St). The ceremony will be an open mic for those who wish to share words of remembrance and/or music. The family plans to record the event in hopes to one-day show his daughter all the good things Max did and all the people he encouraged.

Donations may be made to the Max Byram memorial fund at Farmers and Drovers Bank or donations for Seth Fest can be made at Council Grove/Morris County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism.

Obituary Preview: Eunice Ann Bretz Hunter, 90, long time resident of Council Grove, Ks passed into eternity July 26th, 2021 at Diversicare in Council Grove, KS with her daughters, Carla, Kathy, and Christy by her side.

She was born June 29, 1931 in Emporia, KS daughter of Vernon Dean & Ruth Ann (Berger) Bretz. Eunice graduated from Council Grove High School and attended Business College. She married Calvin Carl Hunter on September 10th, 1949.

She had many occupations in Council Grove including secretarial work at Hunter Chevrolet, lifeguard and swim teacher of Red Cross swim lessons in Council Grove. She was a wonderful seamstress and made many dance recital costumes for Jill Fitzgerald Dance Studio. She was best known for working and then owning Bretz Shoe Store at 206 W. Main Council Grove, Ks. She was an avid promotor of small town businesses.

She was a member of the Council Grove Chamber of Commerce, Council Grove Christian Church, and Council Grove Country Club for many years. She was Ladies City Golf Champion in 1965. She belonged to and enjoyed several Bridge Clubs. She devoted many hours making quilts for her daughters and grandchildren.

Eunie was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Family was of utmost importance to her and she treasured her three daughters. She loved watching her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren play ball and dance. This included 67 consecutive years of going to dance recitals. Eunie loved all sports, playing pitch, reading, and crossword puzzles. She will be sadly missed by all.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sisters Darlene and Donna, and brother Dean.

Eunie is survived by her daughters: Carla Pruitt and husband Don, of Victoria, KS, Kathy Litke and husband Darrell and Christine Ziegenhirt and husband Donnie, all of Council Grove; 9 grandchildren: Alycia Straight (Dane), Amanda Pruitt, Dara Fillmore (Jason), Dana Reddick (Bobby), Deanna Buttrey (Thomas), Dawn Palmquist (Lucas), Derek Ziegenhirt, Jacob Ziegenhirt, and Casey Cowdin (Troy). 14 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Shirley Hickman, and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made to Morris County Hospital Foundation and can be sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846.

A visitation will be held from 4:30 to 6:00pm, Wednesday, July 28th, at Council Grove Christian Church. Funeral services will be at 2:00pm, Thursday, July 29th, also to be held at the church. Graveside service will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Robert Henry Collins (Bob), 72, passed away on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at the Morris County Hospital after a courageous five year battle against cancer. He was born on March 6, 1949 to Don R. and Lucille (Ifland) Collins at Belleville, Kansas. He attended elementary school in Prairie Village, Kansas and Jr High and High School in Salina, Kansas, graduating in 1967. During those years he was active in the scouting program and was an Eagle Scout.

At Sterling College he met Mary Neuschwander and they were married on May 23, 1970. They have three sons: John, Jess and Zac. Bob graduated from Sterling with a bachelor’s degree in history and secondary education. He would further his education by receiving a Master’s degree in History from Emporia State University.

Bob and Mary moved to Council Grove, Kansas in July of 1972 where he taught social studies, drivers education, and coached football at Council Grove High School for eleven years. He began his career as a Financial Advisor for Waddell and Reed Financial Services in 1980 and served in that capacity for 41 years until his death.

Bob enjoyed being active in the community and served as a volunteer in a variety of areas including: Hospital Foundation (33 .years), Relay for Life, 4-H Photography leader, Extension Council, Voices of the Wind People Pageant, Washunga Days, and more. He was an active member and officer in the Kiwanis and Masonic organizations. Bob was a faithful member of the United Methodist Church and provided leadership on a variety of the church’s boards and committees for almost 50 years.

Bob had a passion for photography and especially enjoyed taking pictures of sporting events at CGHS for the Council Grove Republican which provided him the opportunity to combine his love of sports and photography plus support and encourage the young athletes. He also enjoyed landscape photography and capturing the beauty of the Flint Hills in his photographs. His camera always accompanied him and Mary on their travels to Washington, D.C., Morocco, London, France, Kenya, Amsterdam, and family gatherings to record their experiences and provide visual memories of their adventures.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Don R. and Lucille Collins and his wife’s parents, John and Ocie Neuschwander.

He is survived by his wife Mary, sons John (Jennifer), Abilene, KS, Jess (Anna), Lenexa, KS, and James Zac(Marie), France and his cherished grandchildren; Elizabeth, Ava, Capri, Marcel, Felix, and Albert who always brought a smile to his face!He is also survived by his brother Barry (Linda) Collins, Salina, KS, brother-in-law Taylor (Cindy) Neuschwander, Tulsa, OK, and sister-in-law, Ginger (Ron) Foos, Tribune, KS and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on July 19, 2021 at the Council Grove Dunlap United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m. A visitation will be held at the church from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 18, 2021. The family requests that those attending wear masks.

Obituary Preview: On July 5, 2021, William Albert Hussong Jr. peacefully passed away at his home in Oklahoma City, OK – with his family at his side.Bill, as he was called by family and friends was born on October 12, 1939 to Dorothy (Hasty) Hussong and William Albert Hussong in Cheverly, MD.

He attended Bladensburg HS, MD, graduating in 1957 and made many lifelong friends.He attended the University of Hawaii where he earned his bachelors degree and met his future wife Martha (Ann) Roniger.They were married in 1962 in Wilsey, KS.

Bill served his country proudly in the United States Army, rising to the distinguished rank of Colonel.During his 30 year, highly decorated career, he served two tours in Viet Nam, taught at the US military academy at West Point, spent many years in military intelligence, and later went on to serve two presidents at the White House.

Upon retirement, Bill and Ann moved to Oklahoma, where he enjoyed and supported many activities and organizations such as Bike across Kansas, 5/7th Cavalry, master family mover, avid reader, firearms aficionado, maintaining beautiful flower gardens, cats, Ann’s many various endeavors, and spending time at the farm.

Bill is predeceased by his parents and wife Ann.Bill is survived by his loving family which includes his children Bill (Joan) Hussong of Austin, TX, Shawn (Lisa) Hussong of Norman, OK, and Stephanie (Joe) Valeo of Alpharetta, GA; grandchildren Grant, Mason, and Cort Hussong, Juniper, Lily and Daisy Valeo, his sister Dale (Maurice) Grider of Aniston, AL, and Ann’s brother John (Mary) Roniger, Burdick, KS.He will be sorely missed by his family and friends and all those he touched and helped on his journey.

A visitation will be held Thursday, July 22, from 5:30 – 7:00pm, at the Wilsey Christian Church. Graveside service will be at 11:00am, Friday, July 23, at the Diamond Creek Cemetery, Chase County, Kansas with full military honors, followed by a reception in the Parish Hall in Strong City.Memorial contributions in Bill’s name may be made out to: Alzheimer’s Foundation, and sent to Cliff Randall 11912 South May Ave Oklahoma City, 73170.

Obituary Preview: Lloyd Florence went home on July 4, 2021. He was born May 20, 1946 in Junction City, Kansas, the son of George and Alice (Horne) Florence.

Lloyd was a veteran who served his country from 1965 – 1969 in the submarine service. He was a cook.

He married Marlene Hill in 1967; they had 54 wonderful years together.Lloyd enjoyed his museum and passing his knowledge of history to others. He loved visiting with and helping his many friends and family.

He was preceded in death by both parents.Lloyd is survived by his wife Marlene Florence; son Jeff Florence and wife Jennifer; daughter Lori Knight and husband Randy; sister Myrta Townsend and husband Robert; grandchildren: Toby Florence (Jen), Elizabeth Florence, Tori Masters and Kate Masters; great-grandchildren: Max Olsen, McKenzie Olsen, Hayden Florence, Hudson Florence and Maverick Florence; and a host of friends.

A visitation for family and friends will be heldfrom 5:30 - 7:00, Thursday, July 15th, at Sawyer Funeral Chapel with a graveside service at Chalk Cemetery on Friday, July 16th, at 10:00. Memorial contributions may be sent in care of Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21stSt, Topeka, KS 66604.

Condolences may be left atwww.sawyerchapel.com.

Obituary Preview: Larry Wayne Haag died June 30, 2021. He was born January 13, 1953 to Ernest Nicholas and Kathryn Audrey Scott Haag. He was raised on the family farm in Morris County, the youngest of 6 children.He attended Alta Vista Elementary School and graduated from Council Grove High School in 1971. Larry spent most of his life as a carpenter and working the family farm with his Dad, then owning the farm – farming and raising cattle.

Larry was predeceased by his parents and two brothers, LeRoy Haag and Edwin Haag, two brothers-in-law, Stan Meares and Dan Leary. He is survived by two sisters, Carolyn Meares, Manhattan, Dee Leary, Emporia, one brother Mike Haag and wife Linda, Emporia, and a sister-in-law Barbara Haag, Emporia and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves a host of friends.

A visitation with family and friends will be held from 5:30 – 7:00 pm, Tuesday, July 6th, and funeral services will be at 10:00 am, Wednesday, July 7th, both at Sawyer Funeral Home in Council Grove. Burial will follow at Alta Vista Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Emogene R. Russell, age 89 longtime resident of Council Grove, passed away June 26, 2021 at Morris County Hospital. She was born April 28, 1932 in Council Grove, the only child of Ben and Hilda Ruth Foresman. She was married to Donald Eugene Russell, Sr. for 47 years until his passing on July 23, 1996. Due to Donald’s occupation, they moved quite often, before moving back to Council Grove where they lived for over 40 years.

Emogene was a very active member of Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church, where she attended Bible Study and Women’s Circle. She also was active with Zurita, a health and wellness nutrition program, which allowed her socialization and attending conventions. Emogene and Shirley Blosser were in charge of the monthly birthday celebrations at Diversicare. She enjoyed going on gambling trips with Margaret Ratliff, as well as going to Las Vegas every Thanksgiving with her daughter Donna and her family. Emogene’s greatest joy was her family. She will be sadly missed by all.

Emogene was preceded in death by her parents, husband Donald, son Richard and granddaughter Jessica. She is survived by her children: Donald Russell, Jr, of Council Grove, Linda Lane, of Council Grove and Donna Bates and husband Thomas, of Independence, MO; 9 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; and friends.

A Celebration of Emogene’s Life will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, July 3rd at Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church, with a private burial at Dunlap Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Council Grove/Dunlap United Methodist Church, PO Box 317, Council Grove, KS 66846.

Obituary Preview: Linda Marie Ashburn, age 79, of Alta Vista, passed away June 19, 2021 at the Morris County Hospital. She was born March 11, 1942 in Woodbine, Kansas, the daughter of Emmanuel and Ruby (Rohloff) Koepsel.

Linda graduated from Wilsey High School and married Lauren Ashburn on March 30, 1962 in Council Grove. They had 3 daughters: Sheila, Connie and Lori. Linda volunteered several years for the Community Thrift Store; she belonged to the Chalk Ladies Aid and worked on the election board for Rock Creek Township; as well as being a homemaker and assisting Lauren with the farm. She enjoyed quilting, embroidering, gardening, canning and freezing her vegetables, attending dances with Lauren, and flying with him in his plane. She loved spending time with her family. Linda will be sadly missed by all.

She was preceded in death by her parents as well as her mother and father–in-law, Edgar and Doris Ashburn. Linda is survived by her husband Lauren Ashburn of the home; daughters: Sheila Hill and husband Kevin of Alta Vista, Connie Waters and husband David of Council Grove and Lori McDiffett and husband Mickey of Alta Vista; granddaughters: Valerie (Justin) Wasmuth of Marion, Ashley (Eric) Brown of Emporia, Taylor McDiffett of Emporia; grandson: Matthew (Jesa) Waters of Manhattan; great grandsons: Gavin, Liran and Magnuson Wasmuth, Porter Brown and Fisher in September; brother LaVern (Bea) Koepsel; and nieces and nephews.

A graveside service for Linda will be at 10:00 am, Wednesday, June 23rd, at Sunny Slope Cemetery. Linda will lie in state Tuesday, June 22nd from 3:00 to 4:00 pm at Sawyer Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Community Thrift Store, 17 S. 5th St., Council Grove, KS 66846.

Obituary Preview: John Steven True, age 32, passed away June 9, 2021 at Morris County Hospital. He was born October 18, 1988 in Council Grove to John and Loretta (Carpenter) True.

John graduated from Council Grove High School in 2008. He attended Emporia State University and due to health issues, he transferred to Butler Countyand graduated with an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts. John was an extraordinary person. He always made the very best of any situation. He was a kind and caring individual, always putting others before himself. He loved to laugh, have a good time and spending time with his friends. He enjoyed his dad driving him and his friends in the van to attend concerts. He cherished his family and enjoyed time with his nieces and nephews. He also loved his dog, Chuck.

John was preceded in death by his Grandpa John True and Uncle Brad True. John is survived by his parents John R. and Loretta True, of Council Grove; brothers Jake True, of Council Grove and Cody True and wife Allison, of Herington; sister Sara True, of Council Grove; grandmothers, Karen True and Betty Helton, both of Council Grove; 9 nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. John will be sadly missed by all.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 to 11:00, Wednesday, June 16, 2021, with services to begin at 11:00, all to be held at Sawyer Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Sunny Slope Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, 636 Morris Turnpike, Suite 3A, Short Hills, NJ 07078, which will be used to fund cures and treatments for paralysis.

Obituary Preview: Linda Irene McDiffett, 75, of Junction City, passed away June 8, 2021 at Salina Regional Health Center. She was born July 11, 1945 to Leonard Scott and Helen (Ziegler) McDiffett. She graduated from Alta Vista High School. Linda worked as a nurse’s aide for several years. She retired from Merry X-Ray Company as an office manager. She later relocated to Manhattan to be close to family.

Linda enjoyed traveling with her sister throughout the years. She loved her nieces and nephews and spending time with her family. Linda was a huge fan of the KC Chiefs and Royals.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers: Greg McDiffett and Scotty McDiffett, and sister-in-law Patti McDiffett.

She is survived by her sister Beverly Roeser, of Manhattan, brother Mickey McDiffett and wife Lori, of Alta Vista; 11 nieces and nephews; sister-in-law Deb McDiffett; Uncle Virgil Ziegler and Aunt Jan McDiffett.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00, Monday, June 14th, at Alta Vista Cemetery. Linda will lie in state prior to the service from 8:30 to 9:30 at Sawyer Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be sent to Cancer Research Fund, Kansas State University Foundation, PO Box 9200, Shawnee Mission KS 66201-1800, as Linda was a long time breast cancer survivor.

Obituary Preview: Glen D. Yadon, lifelong resident of Council Grove passed away June 4, 2021 at Morris County Hospital.He was born June 20, 1953 to Carl and Dorothy (Krause) Yadon in Council Grove. Glen enjoyed farming, buying and selling livestock, working many years along side his father.He enjoyed gardening and was known as a wheeler and dealer.

Glen married Michelle Garrett and from that union, they had a son, Baylor.They divorced.Glen later married Pam Emley.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Justin Yadon.He is survived by his wife Pam; son Baylor Yadon; brothers: Kenny Yadon and wife Coleen and Keith Yadon and wife Gail; sisters: Kathy Meierhoff and husband Paul, Kandie Daniels and husband Jeff, and Kim Engel and Tim; 2 grandaughters; as well as nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00am, Thursday, June 10th, at Sunny Slope Cemetery.Memorial contributions may be mailed to Morris County 4-H Foundation, in care of the Morris County Extension Office, 501 West Main, Council Grove, KS 66846.

Condolences may be left atwww.sawyerchapel.com.

Obituary Preview: Jane Kirkeminde, formerly of Dwight, Kansas, passed away May 20, 2021 at Council Grove Assisted Living.There will be a private family inurnment held at Greenwood Cemetery.Memorial contributions may be sent to Dwight Library,637 E Main Street, Dwight, KS66849.Condolences may be left atwww.sawyerchapel.com.

Jane was born November 2, 1932, the daughter of Gordon E. “Jeff” and E. Marie (Roberts) Faulconer.Jane moved to Dwight in 1961, after living in Seattle, WA, Nampa, ID and Eureka, KS.She married Richard J. “Doc” Kirkeminde on February 16, 1952 in Manhattan, KS.She attended Emporia State Teachers College. She worked for Universal Securities and the State ASC Office in Manhattan. Jane was very active in the community: volunteering with Dwight Library, organist for both Dwight United Methodist and Presbyterian Churches, she was a seamstress and knitter with many babies’ receiving blankets, caps and booties.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Richard; and son Jeffrey Thomas Kirkeminde. Jane is survived by her son James Kirkeminde and two daughters: Margaret Kirkeminde, and Sara Kirkeminde and husband Doug Burt; grandsons Cole James and Alec Wray; and great-grandchildren: Conner J. Kirkeminde, Hadley R. Kirkeminde, Hudson W. Kirkeminde, Talon A. Burt, Eleanora W. Burt and Lucas W. Burt.

Obituary Preview: Donna Louise Bretz was born on December 28, 1927 in Emporia, Kansas and passed into eternity on May 15, 2021 at the Morris County Hospital in Council Grove, Kansas.

Donna was the daughter of Vernon and Ruth Berger Bretz of Council Grove.She was preceded in death by her brother, Lt. Vernon Dean Bretz, and by her sister, Darlene Dixon Dean and nieces Janice and Deana Dixon.She is survived by her sister, Eunice Hunter, Council Grove, sister-in-law, Mary Lois Aldrich, Tina, Missouri and extended family members.

She was a 1945 graduate of Council Grove High School.She retired from the Rural Electric Cooperative Association after 25 years of service as a clerk.

Donna was united in marriage to Vernon James (Bus) Aldrich of Herington, Kansas on March 23, 1946, by Reverend John J. Clinton in the Methodist parsonage in Council Grove, in a double wedding ceremony with Mary Lois Carr and Douglas Aldrich.The couple made their home in Council Grove for the remainder of their lives.

Donna and Bus were long time members of the Council Grove Country Club and were avid golfers.One of Donna’s proudest moments in her golfing career was winning the 1970 Women’s Match Play Golf Championship at Council Grove Country Club on August 31, 1970.She had also achieved a hole in one.

Donna played bridge in several ladies bridge clubs. She and Bus also enjoyed playing in couple’s bridge clubs, played pitch and traveled several times to warmer climates for games of chance. Donna also knitted, in addition to crocheting sweaters and blanket keepsakes for family members.

Bus passed away on July 26, 2017.After his death, Donna moved from their home to theAssisted Living in Council Grove.

Donna and Bus were the parents of two sons, David, and his wife Melody, of Overland Park and Jim, and his wife Connie, of Council Grove.

Mrs. Aldrich is survived by four grandchildren, Arika, and her husband Devin Ledom, Ashley and her husband Scot Elston, all of Overland Park; Molly Aldrich of Council Grove and Aric Aldrich, and his fiancé, Michelle Havinga of Coralville, Iowa.

She is also survived by four great-grandchildren, Ethan and Ella Elston and Landry and Lawson Ledom, of Overland Park.

Memorials Contributions may be made to Donna Aldrich Memorial Fund and may be sent to Sawyer Funeral Home, Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846. The memorials will be used for the staffs at Council Grove Assisted Living and Morris County Hospital.

Obituary Preview: Randall Donavon Pigorsch, 61, departed from this world suddenly on Monday May 3, 2021. Born August 19, 1959 to Wayne and Lila (Sunquist) Pigorsch in Lindsborg, KS, he graduated from Lindsborg High School, eventually relocating to his home community of Council Grove. Known to most affectionately as “Piggy”, Randy was a hard worker, an avid fisherman, and he lived life according to his own rules. Seen often riding his bicycle or doing odd jobs around town, Piggy was a familiar and welcome presence everywhere he stopped. He will always be remembered as a kind, generous, honest to a fault, funny, humble and easy going individual. His presence impacted many and he leaves behind countless broken-hearted friends who will miss him dearly.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Scott.He is survived by his brothers Jerry of Falun, KS and Denny of AZ.

Memorial contributions will go towards Randy's cemetery gravestone. They may be sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, Kansas 66846.

Obituary Preview: Loren I. Holm, 99, passed away May 2, 2021, at the Morris County Hospital. He was born June 17, 1921 near Dwight, Kansas, the son of Ivar E. and Birttie E. Harris Holm. He grew up in the Dwight area, attending grade school at Swartz School and he graduated from Dwight Rural High School in 1939. He attended Kansas State Agriculture College for 2 years. He married Mildred Rinabarger at the home of her parents in Alta Vista, Kansas on April 2nd, 1943 and they celebrated 76 years of marriage before Mildred died in May of 2019. They have three daughters, Connie, Barbara, and Dorothy. Loren and Mildred lived in the rural Dwight area 73 years before moving to the Council Grove Assisted Living in 2016.

Loren and Mildred were dairy farmers and later raised beef cattle. He was proud of his efforts to help organize and then serve as president of a local unit of the KSAC Artificial Breeders Association in the 1950s. He was a member of the Dwight Presbyterian Church, where he was an Elder and served on the Session, as well as contributing much time and effort to helping with the upkeep of the church. He was also on numerous boards including Dwight Rural High School, Morris County Farm Bureau, Morris County Dairy Herd Improvement Association, and the Shawnee Milk Producers Association. He was a Mason, a member of the Morris County 4-H Foundation, and served as an adult 4-H dairy leader at the club and county level.

Loren had many interests but particularly enjoyed having fun with his closest friends and family, traveling, reading and gardening. He and Mildred traveled locally and around the world. He had a great deal of curiosity and a thirst for knowledge, which he attempted to satisfy through his travels and reading. Gardening could be a challenge, but when successful, he loved to share. He was known for asking about the family of any and all he visited.

Loren was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and all nine siblings: Alice Dowell, Harold Holm, Agnes Aspelin, Harvey Holm, Dorothy fa*ger, Charles Holm, Helen Carlson, Marjorie Magill Haub, and George Holm.

Surviving are daughters: Connie (Gary) Burton, Barbara (Tom) Foncannon, and Dorothy (Jim) Bock; Grandchildren: Terry (LuAnn) Burton, Ginger (Ken) Updegrave, Brett Foncannon (Shelley Trujillio), Kent (Renee) Foncannnon, Lauren Bock (Jafar Tabaian), Drew Bock (Emily Isler); Great grandchildren: Nathan (Jennifer), Nicholas, and Andrew Burton, Turner and Erik Updegrave, Scarlet, Nolan, and Vivienne Foncannon, and Cole Bock; Great-great-grandchildren: Jacob and Benjamin Burton.

Mr. Holm will lie in state Friday, May 7th, from 1:00 – 7:00pm. Family and friends may gather from 5 – 7 at Sawyer Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 8th at 11 am at the Dwight United Methodist Church. Interment will follow at the Dwight Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rodney K. Morgan Memorial Fund in Veterinary Medicine. They may be sent to 1800 Kimble Avenue, Suite 200, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Obituary Preview: Guy Vernon Horton, 99, passed away peacefully on April 19th, 2021 at his home in Emporia, KS.

Guy was born in Towner, Colorado on July 10th, 1921 to Lou and Bonnie Horton. He was one of seven siblings.

Those who knew Guy would agree that he always had a smile on his face, and a great story to tell. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling, working with his brother on the farm and gathering for morning coffee with his friends.

He drove for Francis Trucking, was a co-owner of the Saddlerock Cafe and later retired from Montgomery Ward to enjoy farming.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Donna J. (Wyckoff) Horton, his daughters Nancy (Jim) Pruett and Marla Gordon as well as six grandkids, six great grandkids and two great great grandkids plus many nieces and nephews. Guy was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Leo (Grace), Don (Alberta), Dean (Doris), and Leland (Carolyn); sisters Wilma (Carl) Bennett and Peggy (Gene) Colby, daughter Donna Lou and sons-in-law Lee Winterbower and Dan Gordon.

There will be a graveside service on Thursday, April 22nd at 11:00am at Greenwood Cemetery in Council Grove.The family asks that donations be mailed to Emporia Friends of the Zoo at 75 Sodens Rd. Emporia, KS66801.

Obituary Preview: Charles (Chuck) Robert Patterson, 79 of Dwight, Kansas, passed away April 16, 2021 at his residence. He was born March 25, 1942 in Amoret, Missouri, the son of Claude and Phyllis (Mitchell) Patterson.He married JoAnn Norris on February 23, 1962.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife JoAnn; brothers: James Patterson and Jerry Patterson.

Charles is survived by his three daughters: Pamela Patterson of Dwight, Kimberly Hicks and husband Marshall, of North Carolina, and Lisa McCoy of Abilene; grandchildren: Anthony Patterson, Suzanne and Curtis Hicks, Timothy Moyer, Brandon Moyer, Alexis McCoy;sisters: Mary Martin and Judy Stewart; and his dog Chico…..his lifelong sidekick.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 5 – 7, Thursday, May 13that Sawyer Funeral Home, 137 N Union, Council Grove, KS 66846. A graveside service will be at 11:00AM, Friday, May 14that St. Columbine Catholic Cemetery, in Edgerton, KS.

Memorials may be made and mailed to:The American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75231.

Obituary Preview: Cheri Lynne Corbin-Welborn of White City died Wednesday April 14, 2021 peacefully at her home.Cheri was born October 29, 1948 in Emporia, Kansas to Leroy Corbin Jr. and Naoma Christine Walker.Cheri graduated in 1966 from Emporia High School and attended Emporia State University.

Cheri was a long-time employee at Dolly Madison where she enjoyed making everyone smile and enjoyed singing on the line.Cheri moved to Florida where she was proud of working at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.After returning to Kansas, she took a yearly vacation to Disney World taking her grandchildren and great-grandchildren to enjoy the experience with her.Cheri loved her family and talked often about when she worked with her brother Steve at his club in Emporia.The 4thof July was an important holiday for Cheri and every year had her family come for a BBQ and to watch the White City fireworks show.She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren during the summers.

Cheri is survived by her husband Daryl Welborn of White City, KS;daughters Christy Dougherty of Olathe, KS, Dawn Aye of Emporia, KS, Stacie Sharp of Emporia, KS, and Sheena McIntire of Opelika, AL.She is also survived by 42 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Cheri is proceeded in death by her parents, brother Steve Corbin, sister Connie Seaton, and her sons Robert Allen and Joshua Welborn.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Obituary Preview: Dale Herman Nielsen, 94, of Dunlap, passed away April 6, 2021.He was born to N.H. (Herman) and Margarethe Nielsen on their farm near Americus, on June 24, 1926. After moving to a farm near Dunlap, he attended the Dunlap Schools.

Growing up during the Great Depression, hard work and sacrifice was the norm.He loved the outdoors and farmed as long as health permitted.He also worked for Western Grain Mill and drove trucks, not leaving much idle time for the fishing he enjoyed.

He, along with friends and neighbors were instrumental in starting the Dunlap Volunteer Fire Department and helped with many fundraising activities through the years.He was also a charter member of the Neosho Valley 4-H club, remaining involved in various project leadership roles as an adult.

He married a school teacher, Frances Cleveland, and they had four children: Darrel, Karen, David and Kala.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, wife Frances in 1977, brothers: Chris and Ray and sister Esther Griffith. He is survived by his children: Darrel (Janice) Nielsen, of Dunlap, Karen (John) Bishop, of Emporia, David Nielsen, of Dunlap and Kala (Mike) Wengler, of Aurora, NE; 6 grandchildren; several great grandkids, who affectionately called him G.P. Pa; sisters: Elsie Anderson, of Americus, Mary Keen, of Edmond, OK and Dorathy Ratcliff, of Durant, OK; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Private graveside services will be held at a later date.Memorial contributions may be made to the Dunlap Fire Department or any Morris County 4-H Club and may be sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846.

Obituary Preview: John began his earthly journey on September 16, 1951 born to Peter and Audrey J (Newland) Turkovic at Fort Worth, Texas and went home to his heavenly father on Friday, March 19, 2021. Growing up in a military family, he attended many different schools, attending four in one particular year, until his father retired to Orwell, Ohio for his sophom*ore year in high school. John graduated from Grand Valley High School in May of 1969. Following graduation, the family moved to Salina, Kansas. John attended and graduated from Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kansas in 1974. He continued his education toward his master’s degree at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas from 1974-76. John began his teaching career in 1976 at the Genni Barker School in rural Garden City, Kansas where he taught 6thgrade and worked as the acting assistant principal. In 1981 he accepted a position at the Lake Travis school district in Austin, Texas until 1982, when he felt the draw to return to Kansas and family, He accepted a position at Council Grove Middle School as a middle school teacher where he remained for the next 27 years. During this time, John married Marilyn Luebbert on August 7, 1982. They later divorced and remained close friends. From their union, they had a son, Michael in 1984. John continued to work towards his master’s degree in school administration at Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas which he accomplished in 1988. One of John’s proudest achievements were his students who he continued to stay close to as they grew up and had children of their own. John was fondly referred to as Mr. T when he taught and coached the head girls basketball team. A job he loved as much as the students he taught. John loved to fish and hunt. He also loved to travel with his sister back to Ohio, California and various other destinations where they had many adventures. Another life passion for John was his son, Michael who he was so proud of. Their many trips to Gunnison and Lake City, Colorado were his best memories. As John continued down the pathways of life, he yearned for grandchildren and finally realized that joy in 2019 with the birth of his first grandchild. John is survived by his son Michael and daughter-in-law, Tyndol, brothers George (Michelle) and Tom Turkovic, sister Carolyn Culp (Frank), grandchildren Christian and Kalea, nieces Audrey (Matt) Sullivan, Rachel Saluri (Jimmy), Becky Turkovic and Lizzie Buchman, nephews Johnny Muller, Ben Turkovic and Andrew Maiden (Amanda), his aunt, Ann Klienert, cousins George Klienert and Marshal Newland, as well as many great-nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his grandparents, John & Rose Turkovich and Robert & Irene Dixson, parents Peter & Audrey Turkovic and uncle, John Newland. John was a member and attended the Council Grove Christian Church.

A visitation for family and friends will be held at the Council Grove Christian Church on Thursday, April 1st, from 4:00 – 6:00. Funeral service will also be at the church on Friday at 11:00. The family would like memorials to go toward the AWANA’s. Checks should be made to CG Christian Church, with AWANA on the memo line. Please mail to CG Christian Church, 106 E Main, Council Grove, KS 66846. Condolences may be made to www.sawyerchapel.com.

Obituary Preview: Billy L. Kraus, 91, of Alta Vista passed away peacefully on Monday, March 10th, 2021 at the Diversicare home in Council Grove. Born on the farm September 17, 1929 to Walter and Laura (Litke) Kraus, Bill attended rural Beman grade school and graduated from Alta Vista High. After graduation Bill remained on the farm until joining the Army where he served his country for 2 years as Corporal in Korea. Bill was a member of the American Legion Post #11 for sixty-nine years.

On June 18th, 1954 Bill married Lois E. Copeland. They were blessed with three wonderful children, Connie Fisher, Council Grove; Becky Bowen and husband Marc of Alta Vista; and Bruce Kraus and wife Dawn (Shelli) Kraus also of Alta Vista.Bill is also survived by six grandchildren and sixgreat grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; three step-great grandchildren;and a host of friends of all ages.Bill and Lois raised their family on a farm they bought just up the road from Bill’s home where he could also continue to help his dad work the fields.In 1966, Bill went to work for the local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, retiring from that position in December 1987.

Preceding him in death was his wife of 64 years, Lois Kraus, his parents, Walter and Laura (Litke) Kraus and his brother, Kenneth E Kraus.

Obituary Preview: Randall “Smiley” Mark Burnett, 66 of Council Grove, Kansas, passed away February 26, 2021 at Morris County Hospital.

He was born October 28, 1954 to Kenneth and Betty (Fuqua) Burnett. He graduated from Council Grove High School in 1972 and served a year in the US Navy. He worked for Boeing in Wichita for several years before working as a mason in commercial construction.

Smiley married Mary Hewitt in 1987 and they had two children, Dustin and Alison. They later divorced. He relocated to Lubbock, TX for a while and had a daughter Brandi.

Smiley enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting mushrooms, telling jokes and just making people laugh.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Smiley is survived by his children: Dustin Burnett, Alison Mantz (Adam) all of Council Grove and Brandi Burnett of ID; sisters: Pam Gentry of Mableton, GA and Alice Crowley of Emporia; and brother Phil Burnett of Wilsey; and grandchildren: Aleah Olson, Owen Mantz, Kinsley Burnett, and Aiden and Jaxton Dye.

At his request, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Smiley’s Life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Randy Burnett Memorial Fund, which will help with funeral expenses. They may be mailed to Farmers & Drovers Bank, PO Box C, Council Grove, KS 66846.

Obituary Preview: Robert E. Muhlig Sr, 81, of Council Grove, Kansas, passed away on February 20, 2021 at his home.Bob was born in Chicago, Illinois, on March 22, 1939 to Joseph and Marie Muhlig.He lived in the Chicago area until joining the US Army in 1958, serving until 1964.He was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, where he met his wife, Judith Catlin.They celebrated their 60thwedding anniversary on June 3, 2020.

Bob and Judy had three children:Bob Jr, Jennifer and Ryan. Dispite growing up in the city, Bob was known as an avid outdoorsman. He excelled at hunting, archery and fishing with his two sons.Bob was a proud firefighter and crew chief, retiring from the Fort Riley Fire Department in 1989.He was a lover of animals, especially dogs.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, his son Bob Jr, brother Billy and his favorite dog, Dee.

Bob is survived by his wife Judy; daughter Jennifer (Travis) of Council Grove and son Ryan of Augusta, KS; grandsons: Matthew Gordon (Kayla) of Oakley, Brett Muhlig of Herington, Garrett Gordon of Council Grove; granddaughter Madelyn Muhlig of Augusta; great-granddaughter Winnie Gordon of Oakley; sister Mary Rollins of New Lenox, IL;many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be determined at a later date.The family will follow through with Bob’s wishes of cremation. Memorial contributions can be mailed to: Furbabies Rescue, P.O. Box 156, Council Grove, Kansas 66846.Condolences may be left at www.Sawyerchapel.com.