Laymon, Sammy Edward ‘Sam’

Laymon, Sammy Edward ‘Sam’ h/Kristin H ‘Kris’ (Root)

Death: 2024, 12/26 Age: 68 Lot: 1100 A

Official Obituary of

Sammy Edward “Sam” Laymon

March 18, 1956 ~ December 26, 2024 (age 68)

Sammy Edward Laymon Obituary

Sammy Edward “Sam” Laymon, 68, of Sterling, Kansas, passed away December 26, 2024, at his home. He was born March 18, 1956, in El Dorado, Kansas, the son of Max Loyde and Phyllis N. (Stacey) Laymon. Sam was a long time resident of Sterling. He graduated from Sterling High School, with the class of 1974. Sam worked for Sterling Appliance, later becoming Sterling Maytag, from the late 1970’s until 1995. He then owned Sam’s Multi Service from 1995 until retiring in 2014. He enjoyed fishing, camping, woodworking, and most of all spending time with his family. On November 20, 1976, Sam was united in marriage with Kris Root in Lyons. He is survived by his wife, Kris Laymon of Sterling, KS; four children, Chelsea Stewart and husband Phillip of Sterling, KS, Brandon Laymon and wife Kodi of Sterling, KS, Bret Laymon of Sterling, KS, and Courtney Bosas and husband Joe of Lenexa, KS; five siblings, Jody Laymon, Shannon Laymon, Max Laymon II, Shawna Bailey and husband Curtis, and Aaron Laymon and wife Jayne; ten grandchildren, Hannah and husband Zane, Kody, Dalton, Dylan and wife Silas, Haley, Isaiah, Eve, Luke, Gage, Ryatt; two great-grandchildren, Maddox and Maylee; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Sam is preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Stacy Scott and Stephanie Mauck. Funeral service will be at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, with Pastor Nickia Larsen officiating. Burial will follow at the Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M., Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, with family present. Memorials may be given to Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.

Photo by Candice Groth:

Cobb, Helen Marie(Johnson)Geist

Cobb, Helen Marie(Johnson) dw/Robert Dale Geist/w/ Rolan Lee Cobb

Helen Marie (Geist) Cobb, 93, died January 11, 2025, at Sterling Village, Sterling. She was born March 14, 1931, in rural Plevna, to Cecil Ray and Esther Leona (Rankin) Johnson.
In 1949 Helen graduated from Plevna High School. She was a dedicated mother and farm wife. Helen found joy in playing the piano and organ, knitting and crocheting, reading avidly, writing to several pen pals, and spreading love and encouragement through cards for all occasions to everyone she loved. She was a compassionate soul who adored flowers, animals, and every single person she met.
Helen was a very active member in her church communities. She attended Partridge Community Church, Partridge, Fairview United Methodist Church, Nickerson, and Sterling Evangelical Church, Sterling. She shared her talents as a musician, leader in the AWANA Club and hosted bible studies.
In 1950, Helen married Robert Dale Geist in Plevna. Four boys were born to that union: Kenneth, Larry, Keith, and Bill. They later divorced. On December 31, 1977, Helen married Rolan Lee Cobb at his parents’ home in Sterling, KS.
Helen is survived by: her sons, Kenneth (Mary) Geist of McPherson, Larry (Sally) Geist of McPherson, Keith (Lorna) Geist of Hutchinson, and William ‘Bill’ (Donna) Geist of Sterling; stepdaughter, Linda Cobb of Grant’s Pass, OR; 15 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by: her parents, Cecil and Esther Johnson; husband, Robert Dale Geist; husband, Rolan Lee Cobb; stepdaughter, Cathy Nuest; and grandsons, Thomas Bohall and Tim Snowden Jr.
Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Elliott Chapel with Pastor Keith Dellenbach officiating. Burial will follow in Sterling Community Cemetery, Sterling, KS.

Calderwood, Frances Nelle ‘Fran’

d/Robert Orr and Nelle Mae(Lindsay)Calderwood

Death: Dec. 22, 2024 Age: 92 Lot: 517 B

Frances Nelle Calderwood

September 27, 1932 ~ December 22, 2024 (age 92)

Frances Calderwood Obituary

Frances Nelle ‘Fran’ Calderwood died December 22, 2024, in Sterling, KS, at the age of 92. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Orr and Nelle Mae (Lindsay) Calderwood; brothers, Donald, Robert, and infant brother Alvin; sister, Lois Sieverling; and a niece, Carol Sieverling. Fran is survived by her brother, William (Betty); sister-in-law, Margaret Calderwood; 6 nephews; and 6 nieces all to whom she was special. Frances was born in Sterling, KS, September 27, 1932. She graduated Sterling High School in 1950; Sterling College in 1954, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, 1958, with a Masters in Christian Education. Fran taught English and Home Economics at Hudson, KS high school. Following Seminary graduation Fran served as Christian Education Director in Dayton, Ohio and Hutchinson, KS. In 1960 Fran began 38 years of service to Sterling College where she developed the Christian Education major, served as Dean of Women, managed the Book Store, all the while she also taught Christian Education and Bible part-time. In 1983 Fran assumed the responsibilities of Registrar and later was named Academic Dean. Fran enjoyed many friendships in the Sterling community serving several organizations as an officer. With her seminary training, she was valued member and elder of Sterling United Presbyterian Church as well as a frequent Commissioner to the Presbytery of Southern Kansas. Well done, good and faithful servant! Special thanks to Sterling Village staff and Hospice for their loving care of Fran. Funeral service will be at the Sterling United Presbyterian Church, Sterling, KS, January 3, 2025 at 3:00 P.M. with Reverend Ben Ray officiating. Private burial will precede at Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, on January 2nd, from 5:00-7:00 P.M., Memorials may be given to Sterling College, Sterling, KS, in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.

Henry, Jr., Arthur Floyd ‘Art’

Henry, Jr., Arthur Floyd, ‘Art’, ‘Chick’ h/Eileen Teresa Jones/Lucille Ann Kaufman

Burial Date: 2024, 12/17 Lot: 968 A

Arthur “Art” F. Henry, Jr. | 1930 – 2024 | Obituary

Arthur "Art" F. Henry, Jr.

Arthur “Art” F. Henry, Jr.

May 27, 1930 – December 11, 2024

U.S. Veteran

Arthur Floyd “Art” Henry, Jr., 94, died December 11, 2024, at Legend of Hutchinson. He was born May 27, 1930, in Sterling, to Arthur Floyd and Helen (Northey) Henry.

Known as “Chick” to his family and close friends, Art graduated from Sterling High School. He received his bachelor’s degree from Sterling College and master’s degree from Emporia State University. Art taught business classes at both Inman and Pratt High School. In 1969, he moved to Hutchinson, and taught at Hutchinson Community College in their business and vo-tech departments, retiring in 1992. Art was a proud veteran, serving in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1954. He enjoyed playing golf, traveling, animals (especially dogs), tinkering around the house, and anything to do with aviation. When Art was a teenager, he obtained his pilot’s license, and flew occasionally throughout his life. Most of all, Art loved his family, and was a proud granddad, striving to always be in attendance at his granddaughter’s events. Art was a member of the American Legion Lysle Rishel Post #68 and Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson.

Art married Eileen Teresa Jones. She died June 29, 1957. On July 19, 1959, he married Lucille Ann Kaufman, in Newton. She died November 13, 2022, after they shared over 63 years of marriage.

Art is survived by: daughter, Krystal Krehbiel (Brad) of Buhler; granddaughters, Kourtney Lane (Daniel) of Hutchinson and Kacey Jost (Zach) of Buhler; great-grandsons, Kameron Henry Lane of Hutchinson and Trace Bradley Jost of Buhler; sister, Sue McAllaster of Wichita; sister-in-law, Carol Ratzlaff of Newton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; daughter, Juliet Carole Henry; son, Kevin Lee Henry; brothers, Randall Henry and D. Joe Henry; and sisters, Mary Margaret Donoho, Jean Blount, Maurine Lawson, and Beth Farmer.

Graveside service will be 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at Sterling Community Cemetery, 522 E. Cleveland, Sterling. Memorial service will follow at 10:30 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1602 N. Main, Hutchinson, with military honors conducted by McConnell Air Force Base Honor Guard. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Trinity United Methodist Church (to benefit the music department) or American Legion Lysle Rishel Post #68, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Warren, Robert ‘Bob’ Duvall

Robert ‘Bob’ Duvall Warren h/Zelma Irene(Rust)

Burial Date: 2024, 12/03 Age: 93 Lot: 861 E

December 20, 1931 – November 18, 2024

Robert Warren obituary, 1931-2024, Buena Vista, CO

December 20, 1931 – November 18, 2024

Buena Vista, Colorado – Robert Duvall Warren, of Buena Vista, Colorado, passed away on November 18, 2024, at his home.

He was born on December 20, 1931, in Hutchinson, Kansas, the son of Thomas Bernard and Mary (Hood) Warren. Bob’s life began as a miraculous story. Born not breathing, he was revived by Dr. Duvall of Hutchinson, an event that inspired his middle name and set the course for a remarkable 93-year journey.

Bob has lived in Colorado since the mid-1990s, previously residing in St. Elmo, Colorado, as well as Derby and Sterling, Kansas. He graduated from Sterling High School and later attended Kansas State University and NRS.

On June 6, 1964, he married Zelma Irene Rust in Derby, Kansas, marking the beginning of a loving partnership.

Bob served in both the United States Navy Reserves and the United States Army. He attended Navy boot camp alongside his close friend Charlie, but quickly realized that life aboard a sub-chaser was not suited for him. In transitioning to the Army, he found his calling and developed a lifelong passion for the service. Bob started working at a young age delivering milk on a bicycle from his parents’ dairy. He often spoke fondly of his time working at his grandparents’ ranch or at his parents’ dairy. Bob worked at Boeing going back and forth between Wichita and Seattle in the engineering department and for the KDOL. A highlight for his family was watching him deliver wheat harvest reports on the evening news in the 1980s.

After retirement, Bob’s restlessness led him to volunteer with the United States Forest Service, a role that evolved into employment and became an important part of his life. He worked well into his 80s, driving thousands of miles patrolling in the San Isabel National Forest. His deep love for the forest and wildlife was evident in his many rescues, which included cats, dogs, and even an owl-the latter requiring a tetanus shot after a wild drive to the zoo.

Bob was a loyal and passionate man, known for his vibrant personality and unbelievable perseverance. He was thankful for his friend Bruce and their friendship that brought him closer to Jesus. He loved his family deeply and would defend them regardless of the consequences. The birth of his granddaughter, Marie, was a transformative moment in his life, forging a bond that changed him forever. He shared his love, stories, and wisdom openly with his family, creating deep and lasting bonds. His adventures across Europe left a profound mark on him, and he delighted in recounting those memories, especially with his family as they followed in his footsteps around the world. He found great joy during his time in Signal Corps and his stories of Cold War Berlin and the Berlin Conference were amazing and he was tickled that his granddaughter was born in the city he liked so much. Until his last days Bob was still walking in the forest, on the floor of the garage with his son working on old Jeeps and “busting snow drifts” as he called it in his M-38.

Bob was a longtime member of the Presbyterian Church, Ferrari Club of America, Military Vehicle Preservation Association, and the American Legion.

He is survived by his wife, Zelma Warren of Buena Vista, CO; his son, Thomas Robert Warren, and wife Amanda of Buena Vista, CO; and his granddaughter, Marie Zelma Warren of Buena Vista, CO and Dolní Újezd, Czech Republic. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, with Pastor Rob Bolton officiating. Burial will follow at the Sterling Community Cemetery, Sterling, Kansas, with military honors by the United States Army-Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 9:30 A.M. until service time with family present. Memorial contributions may be made to Ark Valley Humane Society, Buena Vista, CO or Kansas State University Cancer Research in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Wichita Eagle from Nov. 26 to Dec. 1, 2024.

Haile, Bonnie Kay(Morley)

Haile, Bonnie Kay(Morley) w/Guy W ‘Fuzz’

Burial: 2022, Age: 81 Lot: 919 F

Obituary

Bonnie Kay Haile, 81, of Sterling, Kansas, passed away July 30, 2022, at the Sterling Village, Sterling. She was born January 25, 1941, in Rice County, Kansas, the daughter of Benjamin and Evelyn Mills Morley. Bonnie was a lifetime Rice County resident. She graduated from Sterling High School with the class of 1959. Bonnie was a housewife, secretary for Haile’s Dirt Construction in Sterling, and was a clerk for Lantz Clothing Store in Lyons. She was a member of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, Sterling, and was a board member at the Coronado Quivira Museum in Lyons. Bonnie enjoyed refinishing furniture in her spare time. On May 12, 1960, Bonnie was united in marriage with Guy “Fuzz” Haile in Sterling. He survives of the home. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Nellie Haile of Park City, KS; sister-in-law, Doris Morley of PA; five grandchildren, Ashley Tanner and husband Jed, Erin Haile, Jeremiah Haile, Zechariah Haile, and Gracie Haile and fiancé Levi Maxson; two great-grandchildren; Delanie Ann Haile and Gavin Boele; nephew, Billy White; niece, Pamela Shaud and husband Kevin; and adopted daughter, Patty Wagerle and husband John of Sterling. Bonnie is preceded in death by her parents; grandmother, Elsie Mills; two sons, Phillip and Jerry Haile; brother, Leland Morley; and sister, Wynona White. Funeral service will be at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, August 6, 2022, at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, with Pastor Zechariah Haile and Pastor Byron Bachman officiating. Burial will be at a later date at the Sterling Community Cemetery. Visitaton will be from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M., Friday, August 5, 2022, at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, with family present. Memorials may be given to Sterling Village (for the resident activity fund), Coronado Quivira Museum, or Country Care Hospice, INC in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.

Prutow, Dennis James

Prutow, Dennis James h/Erma Jean(Orr)

Burial Date: 2024, 11/08 Age: 85 Lot: 1214 E

Dennis Prutow Obituary

July 30, 1939 ~ October 30, 2024 (age 85)

Dennis Prutow Obituary

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Dennis James Prutow, age 85, went home to be with the Lord on October 30, 2021. He was surrounded by his loved ones as he passed from this life into his heavenly reward.

Denny was born in Cleveland, Ohio on July 30, 1939, to parents John William Prutow and Inez Mayberry Prutow. He attended the United States Military Academy, graduating in 1963. While not yet a Christian, one of his fondest memories of the military academy was marching to chapel to the band playing popular hymn tunes.

After graduation, Denny served in S. Korea, where he came to know the Lord through the ministry of Division Chaplain Dudley Boyd. Almost immediately, God gave him a sense of call to attend seminary. In God’s providence, there was an Army program allowing officers excess leave to attend seminary and enter the chaplaincy. Denny attended Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California, where he met Erma Jean Orr, who was also attending Fuller to complete a master’s degree in Christian Education. They were married in 1967.

Following his ordination, Denny served as Group Chaplain for the 6th Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg. A tour in Vietnam followed, where Denny served as Battalion Chaplain for the 2/47 Infantry in the 9th Division. While in Vietnam, Denny was awarded a Bronze Star.

Once back home, Denny and Erma left the Army and moved to Dallas, TX. While they sought the Lord’s leading for pastoral ministry, their oldest daughter, Gail Anne, was born in 1971. In 1974, Denny received a call to the Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Bartlesville, OK, where he served until 1982. During that time, Denise Kay was born in 1974 and Kristi Lynn was born in 1975.

From 1982 through 1988, Denny developed and ran Westminster Evangelistic Ministries, which provided weekly devotional columns to almost 800 subscribing newspapers, ran the “mini-message of the week” phone ministry and sent a monthly expository newsletter to churches in the OPC and RPCNA. While living in Hutchinson, KS, running WEM and serving as chairman of the board for Central Christian School, Denny began regularly supplying the pulpit at the Sterling Reformed Presbyterian Church and was eventually asked to consider a call. He was installed as Sterling’s pastor in July of 1988. During his time pastoring in Sterling, Denny served as president of the local Chamber of Commerce, was privileged to moderate Presbytery, to chair both the Candidates and Credentials Committee and the Home Missions Committee and to serve Synod on the Seminary Board of Trustees. He was a favorite guest preacher and speaker at youth retreats, conferences and chapel services at Central Christian. In the summers, he taught at Sangre de Cristo seminary in Colorado.

In 1998, Denny received his Doctor of Ministry degree through Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida. And in 2001, he accepted a call as Professor of Homiletics and Pastoral Theology at RPTS and moved to Pittsburgh, PA. In addition to teaching, Denny became Dean of Faculty and wrote and published five books.

Following his retirement from the seminary, Denny and Erma moved to Indianapolis, IN, where Denny continued to teach, preach and mentor seminary students and pastors as long as his health allowed. Denny leaves an extensive heritage of faith that will continue to grow through his family, the students he taught and the many lives he touched during his years of ministry.

Denny is predeceased by his oldest daughter, Gail Anne Prutow (1971-2021).

Denny is survived by his wife Erma, their daughters Kristi Cirignano and Denise Ryherd, 11 grandchildren and 2 great-granddaughters and will be deeply missed by many more extended family and friends. We rejoice in the confidence that he completed the work he was called to do, that he heard those precious words: “Well done, good and faithful servant” as he entered the Lord’s presence and that we will be reunited with him in glory.

A Memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M., Monday, November 4, 2024, at the Second Reformed Presbyterian Church, 4800 N. Michigan Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46228. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Sterling Community Cemetery, 500 E. Cleveland Avenue, Sterling, KS 67579. Visitation will be from 9:30-10:30 A.M., Friday, November 8, 2024, at Birzer Funeral Home, 203 N. 7th Street, Sterling, KS 67579, with family present. Memorials may be given to the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, 7418 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15208, in care of Birzer Funeral Home.

Brown, Mercedes F. (Felicelda)

Brown, Mercedes(Felicelda) 3rd w/Gail Evan

Mercedes (Felicelda) Brown

September 24, 1945 ~ October 27, 2024 (age 79)

Mercedes Brown Obituary

Mercedes Felicelda Brown, 79, of Sterling, Kansas, passed away October 27, 2024, at Sterling Village, Sterling, Kansas. She was born September 24, 1945, in Manila, Philippines, the daughter of Nemesio and Francisca (Calledo) Felicelda. Mercedes has resided in Sterling since 1992, formerly of Manila, Philippines. She graduated high school from Hospico De San Joses in Manila, Philippines. Mercedes worked for the Sterling Village for many years. She also enjoyed caring for her nieces and nephews. Mercedes liked to sew, listen to music, watch game shows on TV, go for car rides and spend time with her family. On August 19, 1991, Mercedes was united in marriage with Gail Brown in Manila, Philippines. He preceded her in death on July 19, 2008. She is also preceded in death by her parents and sister, Susan Arana. Mercedes is survived by her sister, Gloria Pierce of Sterling; brother, Mariano Felicelda of Manila, Philippines; and many nieces and nephews. Graveside service will be at 2:00 P.M., Thursday, October 31, 2024, at the Sterling Community Cemetery, Sterling, with Pastor Dale Jordan officiating. Memorials may be given to Gentiva Hospice in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.

Lanier, Elijah Rickey

Elijah R. Lanier s/Rickey Nelson Lanier and Karen Darlene(Gwynn)Gerber

CPL Elijah R Lanier

February 15, 2002 ~ October 15, 2024 (age 22)

CPL Elijah Lanier Obituary

Corporal Elijah R. Lanier, 22, of Camp Pendleton, California, passed away October 15, 2024. He was born February 15, 2002, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, the son of Ricky Nelson Lanier and Karen Darlene (Gwynn) Gerber. Elijah has resided at Camp Pendleton for the past three years, formerly of Chanute, Kansas. He graduated from Chanute High School with the class of 2020. Elijah was a data systems administrator for the United States Marine Corps. He loved music, played the keyboard and enjoyed playing video games. Elijah is survived by his mother, Karen Gerber of Sterling, KS; father, Rickey Lanier of Spiro, OK; maternal grandmother, Annie Celestine Gwynn of MS; brother, Matthew Gerber and wife Amanda of Chanute, KS; four sisters, Marisha Thiessen and husband Todd of Buhler, KS, Celeste Gerber of Nickerson, KS, Amanda Hunter of CO, and Michele Yost of Montezuma, KS; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Morrison Aldene Gwynn; paternal grandparents; and two sisters, Jaime Michelle Carr and Micaela Shea Gerber. Funeral service will be at 1:00 P.M., Friday, November 1, 2024, at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, with Pastor Nickia Larsen officiating. Burial will follow at the Sterling Community Cemetery, Sterling, with military honors by the United States Marine Corps. Visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M., Thursday, October 31, 2024, at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, with family present. Memorials may be given to Wounded Warrior Project in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, KS.

Collins, Michael Scott

August 31, 1954 – October 14, 2024

Savannah Morning News Obituaries in Savannah, GA | Savannah Morning News

Michael Scott Collins, born on August 31, 1954, in Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away on October 14, 2024, in Columbia, Missouri while on an annual adventure with friends. He resided in Savannah, GA. Known affectionately as Scott, he was a beloved figure who brought joy and laughter to everyone around him.

Scott was the proud father of Aubrey Storie and companion to Gina Mosher. He is also survived by his brother, Skip Collins and nephew, Travis Collins. A dedicated family man, Scott took pride in caring for his loved ones and was especially known for his unwavering support of his mother, whom he helped put through nursing school.

Before retiring in 2016, as a National Territory Manager and Partner at PRN Pharmaceuticals, Scott made significant contributions to his profession. He was respected and admired by his colleagues for his commitment to excellence, ofter reminding himself and others to “do it right the first time.”

In his leisure time, Scott found joy in going motorcycle riding and traveling. He was an ardent fan of the University of Kansas basketball, and football, and he cherished smoking meats, Frank Zappa and the Beatles. His love for humor was evident in his fondess for making others laugh, and in turn, laughing easily himself.

Scott had a special place in his heart for San Francisco, which he considered his favorite destination. He actively contributed to his community through Habitat for Humanity, reflecting his generous spirit and commitment to helping others.

Scott’s life was marked by a genuine desire to lift others’ spirits. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but also for his ability to make people feel good about themselves. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and compassion that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Knecht, Jr., Samuel Wesley

Knecht, Jr., Samuel Wesley h/Mary(Horton)

Burial Date: 2023, 08/ Age: 81 Lot: 703 H Crems

Samuel Knecht Jr. Obituary

Samuel Knecht, Jr.
April 26, 1942 – August 7, 2023
Wichita, Kansas – Samuel Wesley Knecht, Jr.
Sam, 81, retired electrical engineer, died peacefully at home Monday, August 7, 2023. A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 14, 2:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 525 N. Broadway. Sam was born April 26, 1942, in Dodge City, KS to Samuel W. Knecht, Sr. and Catherine Roach Knecht. The family moved to Wichita in 1956. Sam attended John Marshall Middle School and graduated in 1960 from North High. He attended M.I.T. and graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, Student Senate and the marching band.
His first job was as an Engineer for IBM, supporting the System 34 Computers at the KU Medical Center. He enjoyed his work as Vice President for Inventory Control at McCall’s Pattern Company in Manhattan, KS because he got to travel to their six production centers across the USA from Hackensack, NJ, to San Francisco, CA. While at K-State he and two other young computer enthusiasts with a vision of where computer technology would be going, formed Computer Systems Design. Feeling the entrepreneurial spirit, he bought their shares of the business and moved the company to Wichita in 1976. CSD was the first company in Wichita to offer turnkey microcomputers business systems and operated until 1998 when the big box stores pushed CSD out of business. Sam then became a contract computer programmer, worked on projects for the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Phillips Petroleum and was the data base manager for Beechcraft’s 390 Premier I business jet.
On June 9, 1973, he married Mary Horton Knecht in Manhattan, KS. They joyfully celebrated their 50th anniversary recently. Travel was a key component in their marriage, not only in the USA but also to World Fairs in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Lisbon, Portugal; Hannover, Germany; and Nagoya, Japan. A Viking River Boat cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. Sam’s other interests were WWII history, cryptology, silent movies, steam engines, science fiction, airplanes and making award winning chocolate chip cookies at both the Lyon and Sedgwick County Fairs.
He served as a trustee at First Presbyterian Church, drove for their transportation service, was on the Friends of the Library Board, helped with the Wichita Art Museum’s Art and Book Fair, delivered Meals on Wheels and was a member of the Downtown Lions Club Board and Parade Committee.
He is survived by his wife, Mary, two brothers Dr. Steve Knecht, MD, Dr. Greg Knecht, MD, four nieces and 3 nephews. Memorials established at First Presbyterian Church, Music Program, 525 North Broadway, Wichita, KS 67203; Kansas State University Foundation, Women in Engineering, 1800 Kimball Ave., #200, Manhattan, KS 66502, indicate fund M47454. To make a gift online, go to www.ksufoundation.org/give/memorials. The family wants to publicly thank the Harry Hines Memorial Hospice staff for their loving care.

Krueger, Jacquelyn S ‘Jackie'(Neal)

Name: Krueger, Jacquelyn S ‘Jackie'(Neal) 2nd w/Duane

Burial Date: 2023, 12/26

Age: 64

Plot: 1184 A

Jacquelyn S. “Jackie” (Neal) Krueger

January 28, 1947 ~ December 21, 2023 (age 76)

Jacquelyn S. Krueger Obituary

Jacquelyn S. “Jackie” Krueger, 76, of Sterling, Kansas, went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 21, 2023. She was born January 28, 1947, in Sterling, the daughter of Harold and Dorothy (Buel) Neal. Jackie was a lifelong Sterling resident. She graduated from Sterling High School with the class of 1965. Jackie received her bachelor’s degree in education at Sterling College in 1969 and later received her master’s degree in education from Pittsburg State University. She was a teacher at Nickerson High School, Sterling Junior High and Sterling High School, and was also a homemaker. Jackie was a member of Grace Bible Church, Hutchinson, where she was very active in a variety of church ministries. She loved playing the piano and organ at various churches. Jackie enjoyed gardening, playing music, photography and most of all spending time with her family. On March 31, 1972, Jackie was united in marriage with Duane L. Krueger in Sterling. She is survived by her husband, Duane of Sterling, KS; three sons, Rick Krueger and wife Linda of Lyons, KS, Randy Krueger and wife Angela of Topeka, KS, and Ryan Krueger and wife Molly of Spring Hill, KS; daughter, Angela Brunk and husband David of Colorado Springs, CO; brother, Jim Neal and wife Marcia of Kanopolis Lake, KS; eight grandchildren, Brendon Krueger, Conner Krueger, Ethan Brunk, Ashlyn Warchol and husband Isaac, Dylan Krueger and wife Faith, and Madalyn Krueger. Jackie is preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Patricia Neal McClellan. Funeral service will be at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, December 23, 2023, at Grace Bible Church, Hutchinson, with Pastor Bart Horton officiating. A private family burial will take place at Sterling Community Cemetery. Memorials may be given to Grace Bible Church (for the building fund) in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.

Colle, Franklin Eugene ‘Gene’

Colle, Franklin Eugene ‘Gene’ h/Eleanor Maurine(Ray)/Mildred Martha(Miller) Belden/Anne Margaret Wolf

November 19, 1922 ~ October 25, 2024 (age 101)

Franklin Eugene Colle Obituary
Franklin Eugene “Gene” Colle, 101, of Hutchinson, Kansas, passed away October 25, 2024, at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson. He was born November 19, 1922, in rural Sterling, Kansas, the son of Tony and Mable Vera (Pallister) CoAlle. Gene has resided in Hutchinson since 2013, formerly of Sterling, and Nickerson, Kansas. He graduated from Lyons High School, Lyons, Kansas, with the class of 1940 and attended Kansas State University for two years. Gene was a dairy farmer most of his life. He served in the United States Army. Gene was a member of the Eastwood Church of Christ in Hutchinson. On December 12, 1942, Gene was united in marriage with Eleanor Maurine Ray in Sterling. Gene was inducted into the Dairy Shrine Club on February 17, 1979. Gene and Maurine received an award for Master Farmer and Homemaker in 1981. She preceded him in death on June 15, 1984. On June 1, 1985, Gene was united in marriage with Mildred M. Belden in Hutchinson. She preceded him in death on October 14, 1997. On July 27, 1999, Gene was united in marriage with Anna Margaret(Mccurry)Wolf in Hutchinson. She preceded him in death on March 3, 2013. He is also preceded in death by his parents; daughter-in-law, Janie Colle; brother, Wayne Colle; and two sisters, Betty Carol Garey and Joyce Munson. Gene is survived by his two sons, Dennis Colle and wife Camille of Medicine Lodge, KS, and Tony Colle of Hutchinson, KS; brother, Loren Colle of rural Sterling, KS; sister, Venetta Arganbright of Valentine, NE; four grandchildren, Yvonne Burden and husband Michael of Medicine Lodge, KS, Kristina Patton of Medicine Lodge, KS, Trey Colle and wife Sarah of York NE, and Trent Colle and wife Amber of York, NE; and eight great-grandchildren, Garrett Burden, Jaycee Patton, Mayah Colle, Isabella Burden, Javen Colle, Bryce Colle, Taylen Colle, and Cynthia Shrader. Graveside service will be at 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at the Sterling Community Cemetery. Memorial service will be at 1:30 P.M., Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at the Eastwood Church of Christ, Hutchinson. Visitation will be from 2:00 until 7:00 P.M., Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, with family present from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. Memorials may be given to Eastwood Church of Christ or Samaritan’s Purse in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.

Belden, Gerald Norman

Belden, Gerald Norman h/Pattie (Warnock) Yates dh/Clara Mae(Williford)

Burial Date: 2024, 11/02 Age:92 Lot:233 D

Gerald Norman Belden Profile Photo

Gerald Norman Belden

July 21, 1932 — October 24, 2024

Gerald Norman Belden, 92, passed away October 24, 2024, at Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community, Buhler. He was born on July 21, 1932, in Sterling, the son of Emerson and Norma Baker Belden. He graduated from Alden High School. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He had been a member of the Alden Baptist Church and later the First Church of God, Hutchinson. He was a farmer most of his life and considered himself a master fence builder. He built fences for miles and was extremely proud of it. He was honored to be able to do the Honor Flight. His grandkids all loved to be around him.

He married Clara Mae Williford, and they later parted ways. He then married Pattie Warnock Yates on January 2, 1999, in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Survivors include his wife, of the home; children, Brian (Debby) Belden, Susan (Keith) Patterson, Sara Quinn, and Sharon (Max) Comstock; stepchildren, Rebecca (Tracy) Spencer, Kim (Arlan) Hoffman, Cathy (Jase) Samuelson, Robert (Laurie) Yates, Timothy (Robin) Yates, and Jennifer (Bob) Webster; 8 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; 32 step grandchildren; and 75 step great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Brent Belden; and siblings, Zola McGonigle, Patricia Key, Bonnie Ludwick, Mary Cross, Glennis Gunter, Danny Belden and Shirley Sue Belden.

It was Gerald’s wishes to be cremated. Celebration of life services will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, November 2, 2024 at CrossPoint Sterling, 109 W. Garfield Ave, Sterling, Kansas. Burial will follow at the Sterling Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Grand Staff Ministries or First Church of God, both sent in care of Inman Funeral Home; PO Box 490, Inman, KS 67546.

Joiner, Mary Frances(Young)Cannon

Joiner, Mary Frances (Young) w/ Andrew Jackson “Jack” Joiner, Jr./Paul Leroy Cannon

Mary Frances Joiner

September 12, 1922 – September 21, 2024

Mary Frances Joiner, 102, passed away September 21, 2024, at Clara Barton Hospital in Hoisington, Kansas. She was born September 12, 1922, in Sterling, Kan., to James and Sylvia (Webb) Young.

With her father passing at a young age, Mary grew up as the caretaker for her family, looking after her brothers and sisters. She was witty and humorous and would often play tricks, to the dismay of her mother. Later in life, she married Andrew Jackson “Jack” Joiner, Jr. November 25, 1978, in Ellinwood. He died March 5, 2008.

Mary worked as a telephone operator while living in Oregon and later owned and operated a very successful and sought after newsstand in Lyons, next to the bus stop. After retirement, she loved going to the senior center, spending time with friends, playing dominoes, and enjoyed traveling. Mary quickly found love in her two Schnauzers, Peppy and Dixie and her cat, Annie. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her stepsons; Jack Joiner and wife Tricia, Donnie Joiner and wife Rosie, and Mike Joiner; thirteen step grandchildren, forty-four step great grandchildren, and eighteen step great great grandchildren; nephews, James Myers and Larry Brown; and nieces, Nancy Gerard, Donna Hanover and Brenda Christiansen. She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband, and stepsons Chris Sollars and Kevin Joiner.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home with Pastor Diana Webster presiding. Interment will be 2:00 p.m. at Sterling City Cemetery, Sterling, Kan. Visitation will be held Monday, September 30, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials have been designated to First United Methodist Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.