Carolyn J. Bidwell, 72, of Great Bend, died Saturday, Feb. 9, 2008 at Via Christi - St. Francis Regional Medical Center in Wichita. Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Trinity United Methodist Church in Great Bend, with Pastor Julie Shields officiating. Interment will be held at Great Bend Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Bryant Funeral Home in Great Bend.
She was born April 17, 1935 in El Dorado, the daughter of Charles and Eunice Singleton Welty. She was married to William Arthur Bidwell on June 19, 1954 at Chelsea Methodist Church in?El?Dorado. He died April 5, 2007. She worked in the dietary department at Central Kansas Medical Center in Great Bend for 25 years. She was a resident of Great Bend since 1961, coming from El Dorado. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and served in numerous church positions. She was also a volunteer at the Central Kansas Medical Center Gift Shop.
Survivors include: a son, Michael Bidwell and wife Diane of Wichita; daughters, Linda Lickey and husband Ernest of Wichita and Susan Wagener and husband Mark of Clovis, N.M.; grandchildren, Matthew Bidwell, Jenny Vinson, Adam Wagener, Amanda Wagener and Spencer Lickey; great-grandchildren, Alexis Vinson, Jacob Vinson and Deven Tinsley; and sisters, Melda Johnson of El Dorado, Dorothy Tillock of Galva and Shirley Sander of El Dorado.
Memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home. (El Dorado Times, February 11, 2008)
Donald C. Boss of El Dorado died Tuesday evening at Lakepoint Nursing and Rehab Center. Services for Donald will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at Walnut Valley Memorial Park Cemetery.
Donald was born Oct. 11, 1936 in El Dorado, the son of Franklin and Mildred Sutter Boss. He grew up in El Dorado and graduated with the Class of 1954 from El Dorado High School. Shortly after graduation he joined the U.S. Navy . He worked as an illustrator while in service and was stationed at the Pentagon. When he discharged from the service, he went to work for Boeing Aircraft and lived in both Alabama and Louisiana. He returned to El Dorado after the death of his father and opened Boss Woodworking and Refinishing. He worked until a stroke forced him to retire. Memberships included the V.F.W. Post and the American Legion Post.
Surviving family include: one daughter, Dawn Baldwin of Hastings, Neb.; one sister, Charlotte and her husband Richard Ketterman of Towanda; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents. Kirby-Morris Funeral Home has charge of the arrangements. (El Dorado Times, January 31, 2008)
Carl L. Briley, 80, of Towanda and formerly of Wichita, died Saturday morning, July 29, 2000 at a local nursing home. Memorial services are 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 2, at Old Mission Cemetery in Wichita. Masonic services will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 1, at Kirby Morris Funeral Home. Cremation has preceded the services.
He was born May 23,1920, in Wichita, the son of Elmer C. and Vilena (Buchanon) Briley. He had lived most all of his life in the Wichita area, except for the last four years when he moved to be closer to his son. He and Pauline Osborn were married Feb. 19, 1939, in Wichita. In 1940 and 1941, he was a Sedgwick County Sheriff’s officer. He had to use his own vehicle when on patrol, because the county did not have any patrol cars for their officers at that time. He then became the mechanic for the Wichita Police Department. Then after several years of service with the police force, he was employed by Collegiate High school in the maintenance department. He retired in 1990. He could spend endless hours in his shop tinkering with engines. He also had a strong affection for his dogs. He was known for one who would stop what ever he was doing and give someone a hand in need.
Survivors include: his wife, Pauline of the home, one son and wife, Robert and Virginia Briley of Towanda, one brother-in-law, Gene Osborn of Wichita; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Raymond Briley, five brothers and three sisters.
A memorial has been established with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office. Contributions may be left with Kirby Morris Funeral Home who has the arrangements. (El Dorado Times, July 31, 2000)
Robert Brumback, 79, brother of Laura Kimberlin, who was 79, died Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008 at Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital. Services will be 2 p.m. Friday at Carlson Funeral Home, El Dorado. Cremation has preceded the services. Inurnment of the cremains will be in Walnut Valley Memorial Park.
He was born April 29, 1928 at Burns, the son of Nathan Lee and Eva Lena (Dauber) Brumback, one of nine children. He graduated from El Dorado High School with the Class of 1946 and then began his career with the United States Air Force. He was a career Air Force person and after retiring from the service he worked at Cheyenne Mountain and was in charge of the President’s communications. He then worked for Martin-Marietta and was instrumental in developing the Scud Missle. He loved to fly and work with electronics. He was also a member of various veterans organizations.
Those who survive are a niece, Carole Woodard of Sunrise Beach, Mo.; a nephew, Robert Eugene Brumback of Arkansas City; a great-nephew, Glenn Thompson of Freeport, Fla.; a great-great-nephew, Michael Thompson of Naples, Fla.; and a friend, Betty Zonker of El Dorado.
Carlson Funeral Home, El Dorado is in charge of the arrangements. (El Dorado Times, February 11, 2008)
Lois M. Bullock, 74, of Rosalia, died Saturday, Jan. 19, 2008. The celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Kirby-Morris Funeral Home.
Lois was born Jan. 20, 1933 in Atlanta, Kan., the daughter of Everett and Verda Elaine (Sarg) Forst. She graduated as salutatorian in the Class of 1950 from Rosalia High School. On Dec. 31, 1950 she was united in marriage to Charles Bullock in El Dorado. He preceded her in death on June 1, 2004. She was a wonderful homemaker and a retired school bus driver for 24 years for Rosalia USD 429. She loved to take care of her gardens of flowers and vegetables and wildlife of all kinds. She was an avid reader, seamstress, crocheter and loved to spoil her grandkids.
Surviving family include: two sons, Terry and Jeffery Bullock both of Rosalia; daughters, Marie (Lynn) and John Scobee and Margaret (Maggie) O’Roke; stepsisters, Martha Robinson, Sharon Marlow and Lucille Walker; grandchildren, Shawn and Timothy Scobee and Joshua and Jammie O’Roke; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Ellie Ray Lynn Scobee; and one niece, Joyce O’Nell of Delaware. She was preceded in death by sons, Jim and Roy, and stepbrother, Loren Osborn.
Memorials have been established with the KU Medical Center for research or Flinthills or elementary libraries. (El Dorado Times, January 24, 2008)
Beatrice “Bee” M. Burton, 100, of Wichita, died Friday, Aug. 19. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, at the First United Methodist Church of El Dorado.
She was born Aug. 16, 1900 to George and Mary Kelley Kanauer. On Jan. 18, 1920 she was married to Floyd Burton in Wichita.
They owned and operated Economy Laundry and Dry Cleaning in Wichita for 35 years, retiring in 1954 and moving to El Dorado in 1970. She lived the last four years at Georgetown in Wichita. Burton was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Crazy Quilters, the church circle and was a volunteer for Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. She loved to sew, making designer quilts, wall hangings, and pillows for her grandchildren.
She had fond memories of the 20 years they spent at their summer home on their island on Rainy Lake in Canada with her flowers, fishing, cooking and visits from her friends and family.
Survivors include: a son, dick Burton of Colorado Springs, Colo.; daughters, Virginia Murphy and Katy Farris, both of Wichita and Maggie Jones of Hot Springs, Village, Ark.; nine grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband.
Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of El Dorado in care of Kirby Morris Funeral Home, who has the arrangements. (El Dorado Times, Aug. 23, 2000)
Charles W. Cooke, of Winfield and a former long-time resident of El Dorado, died Saturday, Feb. 9, 2008 at Rest Haven Care Home in Winfield. Services will be 3 p.m. Wednesday at Carlson Funeral Home, El Dorado. The family will receive friends and relatives from 2 p.m. until the time of the service. Private committal will follow the services.
Charles was born May 9, 1915 in Sterling to C. Knox and Nellie Rose (Wilkin) Cooke. He was baptized and confirmed in the United Presbyterian Church of Sterling where he was active in choir and other church affiliated groups throughout his youth and college years. He graduated from Sterling High School and went on to attend Sterling College, graduating in 1938 with a degree in chemistry.
Charles met his future wife at Sterling College and on Aug. 28, 1940 was united in marriage to Edrea M. Lorimer in the home of her parents in Olathe. Together they made their home in El Dorado where they resided until moving to Winfield in 1991. They enjoyed 67 years of marriage.
After graduation, he worked as a chemist for various oil refineries including El Dorado Refining Oil and Skelly Oil Companies where he became supervisor in the road oil department and later at the in-line gasoline blender. He retired from Skelly after 37 years on the job. During the Korean War he served as a 1st lieutenant in the reserves.
Charles continued throughout his life to be active in the Presbyterian Church serving as an elder, a deacon, a choir member, a trustee and participating in Sunday school and couples club. He had a deep, abiding faith in God.
Charles gave of his time to organizations such as Boy Scouts and Meal on Wheels. His hobbies include being a pilot as a young man, singing with various men’s groups and choirs, loving all kinds of music and reading extensively. He had a special place in his heart of Louis L.’ Amour books.
Charles was a storyteller and a talker, and he could strike up a conversation anywhere, anytime, with anybody. Charles was the quintessential gentleman, courteous and kind to all, loving to his family.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Roberta Kilbourn and Pauline Treaster.
Charles is survived by his wife, Edrea; his son, Dennis Cooke and his wife Rhonda; and his daughter, Linda Johnson. Their families include five grandchildren, Matt Wolf, Mike Wolf, Lacy Cooke, Echo Lee and Charli Johnson, and nine great-grandchildren, Makenna, Rickey, Tristam, Joshua, Jayce, Curtis, Austin, Talyn and Adyson.
Memorials have been established with Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, First Presbyterian Church of Winfield (Discretionary Fund) and First Presbyterian Church of El Dorado.
The family of Charles W. Cooke wishes to thank all their friends and family for their prayers and support. (El Dorado Times, February 11, 2008)
Midge Danner, 81, of El Dorado, died Sunday, Feb. 3, 2008 at Lakepoint Nursing Center in El Dorado. Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Carlson Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Sunset Lawns Cemetery.
She was born May 23, 1926 at Natural Dam, Ark., the daughter of Sidney and Alice T. Lee Briley. Midge spent most of her life in El Dorado and was a floral designer at Pauline’s Flowers for 35 years. She loved people, to travel and everyone would remember her laugh and quick smile. She was a member of the Moose Auxiliary and the Wichita Floral Association for many years. She was also a member of the First Baptist Church in San Bernardino, Calif.
On April 4, 1952 she was married to Robert E. Danner in a ceremony in El Dorado. He preceded her in death on Feb. 7, 1998.
Those she leaves are: a brother, Harold “Hank” Burchard of Towanda; two sisters, Hazel Wilson and Marty Scott, both of El Dorado; and a number of nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by her parents and a brother Linton Mizer.
Friends may call at Carlson Funeral Home. (El Dorado Times, February 4, 2008)
Vincent A. DeConto, 85, of El Dorado, died Monday, Feb. 4, 2008 at Select Specialty Hospital, Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Carlson Funeral Home, El Dorado. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Homestead Cemetery, Clements.
He was born Sept. 21, 1922 in Newport, R.I., the son of Edward Albert and Theresa DeConto. He was retired from the United States Air Force beginning his military service in the Army for five years, and then joining the Air Force where he served for 17 years, retiring as a master sergeant. He served in World War II, the Korean Conflict and Viet Nam. Vincent made his home in El Dorado since August of 1970.
On Dec. 5, 1958 he was married to Laquita Scobee in a ceremony in Petaluma, Calif. They were able to celebrate 49 years of married life together.
Those he leaves include: his wife of the home; two sons, Roy DeConto of Naples, Fla., and Albert DeConto of Portsmouth, R.I.; two daughters, Linda of Rhode Island and Joyce Blake of El Dorado; a step-son, Herb Tyler of Las Vegas, Nev.; four granddaughters; six grandsons; two great-granddaughters; and 10 great-grandsons.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Joseph; a sister, Rosie; and a daughter, Marie Antonette.
Memorials in his memory for the Leukemia Society may be left with Carlson Funeral Home, where friends may call. (El Dorado Times, February 6, 2008)
Jane H. (Hardwick) Edwards, 40, died Saturday, Jan. 26, 2008 at Susan B. Allen Hospital. Celebration of her life will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Kirby-Morris Funeral Home.
Jane was born May 14, 1967 in El Dorado, the daughter of Bill and Joyce (Rogers) Hardwick. She attended school in El Dorado, graduating from El Dorado High School. She attended Butler County Community College. Jane was united in marriage to Robert Edwards on Dec. 16, 1988 in Wichita. She loved her children, cats and dogs. She was a care giver for many.
Surviving family include: her husband, Robert of the home; children, A.J. and Heather Edwards, both of El Dorado; sisters, Su Carpenter of El Dorado and LeAnn Gehring of Newton; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother and father and a brother Stan Hardwick.
A memorial has been established to help with final expenses. Contributions may be left at Kirby-Morris Funeral Home. (El Dorado Times, January 28, 2008)
Thelma M. Elder, 94, of El Dorado, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 20, 2008 in El Dorado. Graveside service will be held on Wednesday at Walnut Valley Memorial Park, with burial following. If you would like to visit with the family they will be present for a visitation on Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Carlson Funeral Home, 200 S. Star.
Thelma was born April 28, 1913, in Elwood City, Penn., the daughter of Ruben Dell and Edith (Wynkoop) Hummel. Thelma came to Towanda in 1915 and had lived in this area most of her life. She was united in marriage to Leonard F. Elder on May 13, 1934 in Whitewater; he preceded her in death on November 2, 1979. Thelma was a homemaker and worked three years for Woolworth’s. She was a member of Park Avenue Baptist Church and the circles of the church; she also taught Sunday school and was a member of SBA Hospital Auxiliary.
She leaves one son, Don Elder and his wife Sharon of Yates Center; one daughter, Mary Hobson and her husband Rae of El Dorado; three brothers, Roy Hummel of Fall River, Harry Hummel of El Dorado and Bob Hummel of Mountain View, Ark.; one sister, Esther McCloud of Newton; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren. Her parents, one brother and two sisters also preceded Thelma in death.
Memorials in her memory for Hospice Care of Kansas may be sent to Carlson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1213, El Dorado. (El Dorado Times, January 24, 2008)
Died July 28, Infant Son of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Everett. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery. (Independent, July 31, 1924)
Died, August 31, Isaac Everett, at home. He was married to Jessie Sloop, 2nd wife was Edith. He was Survived by his wife Edith, sons, Floyd and Glen, daughters, Vesta Olney and Nyra Huffman, brothers, Nate and Jim and sisters, Nellie Minard, Bertha Brenner and Mae Hendricks. Burial was in Green Valley Cemetery. (Independent, September 5,1957)
Died, November 26, James Everett, in Allen Memorial Hospital. He was married to Olive Emmert. Survived by wife, daughter, Dorothy Carmichael, brother, Nate, sisters, Nellie Minard, Bertha Brenner and Mae Hendricks and nine grandchildren. Burial was in McGill Cemetery. (Independent, December 1, 1960)
Died, May 28, Mrs. Jessie Pearls (Sloop) Everett. She was married to Isaac Everett. Survived by husband, daughters, Mrs. Vesta Olney and Mrs. Myra Huffman, son, Floyd, sister Minnie Sloop and brothers, John, Andy, and Jim Sloop. Burial was in Green Valley Cemetery. (Independent, June 5, 1947)
Died, Nov. 1, John Everett, at his home. Survived by Mrs. Clyde Gurley and Carl Everett. Funeral services held at Marion, Kansas. (Independent, November 5, 1964)
Died May 27, John H. Everett, aged 45, resident of Potwin vicinity, at St. Francis Hospital, Wichita, Kansas. Survived by parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Everett, one son and wife. Burial was in Park Cemetery at Sunnydale. (Independent, May 29, 1941)
Died, June 6, Mrs. Margaret (Claassen) Everett, in Allen Memorial Hospital. Married Herman Everett. Survived by children: Helen, Rose, Carl, C. J., Granger, Henry, Herman, John, Paul, Danile, and Phillip and brothers, Herman and Carl Claassen. Burial was in Mission Cemetery. (Independent, June 11, 1953)
Died, Feb. 22, Mrs. Sarah Alice Everett, aged 78, at home. Survived by husband: Henry Everett, sons, Isaac, Nathan & James, daughters, Mrs. Nellie Minard, Mrs. Bertha Brenner and Mrs. May Hendricks, and a sister, Mrs. Elizabeth McCall. Burial was in McGill Cemetery. (Independent, February 28, 1948)
Died March 27, Frank Ewert, of Elbing, Kansas, aged 93 years, 7 months and 10 days. (Independent, March 29, 1906)
Died March 6, Mrs. Frank Ewert, sister of Mrs. Maggie Harms and Mrs. J. J. Schmidt, at Drake, Sask, Canada. (Independent, March 15, 1951)
Died, October 12, Herman E. Ewert, at Bethel Deaconess Hospital. Married Margaret Schmidt. Survived by wife, sisters, Mrs. M. O. Pearson and Mrs. Perry Smith, brothers, Henry and Gus and half sister Mrs. Mary Unruh and Mrs. Anna Harms. Burial was in Gnadenberg Church Cemetery. (Independent, October 23, 1952)
Died, September 23, Jacob Ewert, at El Dorado, Kansas. Survived by brother, Herman Ewert. Burial was in Gnadenberg Cemetery. (Independent, October 2, 1947)
Died, November 18, John G. Ewert, aged 71 at Bethel Deaconess Hospital. He had lived in Newton for many years. His wife died in 1941. Survived by several children. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery. (Independent, November 25, 1943)
Died, October 17, Manley Kent Ewert, 17, at Bethel Hospital. Survived by mother, sister, Carolyn, Betty Wohlgemuth and Faith Ewert and brothers Tim and Tony. Burial was in Elbing Missionary Church Cemetery. (Independent, October 22, 1964)
Died April 1, Walter K. Ewert, 47, son of Henry and Susie Ewert. Married Marian Sommers. Survived by wife, daughters, Carolyn, Betty and Faith, sons, Manley, Tim and Tony, sisters, Mrs. Rudy Lichti and Mrs. George Klaassen and brother Irvin. Burial was in Elbing Missionary Church. (Independent, April 4, 1963)
Died in May, Mrs. Alice (Joseph) Ewing, formerly of Potwin. Married Albert Ewing at niece’s home, Mrs. John Morgan. Survived by son J. D. Joseph, and daughter, Mrs. A. J. Nigg. Burial was in Potwin Cemetery. (Independent, May 13, 1943)
Monta Finey, 69, of El Dorado, died at Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital on Saturday evening Feb. 2, 2008. The celebration of his life will be held 11 a.m. Feb. 7, 2008 at the Kirby-Morris Funeral Home Chapel.
Monta was born June 24, 1938 in El Dorado, the son of Jim and Helen Finey. He attended school here. In 1960 he joined the service and served his country in the United States Army. He along with his brother Jim formed Finey Brothers Drywall and they worked together for 53 years. He was a member of the V.F.W. Post and loved being with his friends and family.
Surviving family include: his mother, Helen Williams of El Dorado; daughter, Jeanie (John) Alfaro of El Dorado; brothers, Jim Finey of El Dorado and Don Williams of Winfield; sisters, Shirley Newman of Wichita, Marcia Hallen of Osage City and Joan Hill of El Dorado; grandchildren, John (Kendra) Alfaro Jr. and Marc Alfaro, Jackie Hill; and great-grandchildren, Ali, Buddy, Gabby, Johnna, Trystan and Marc Jr. He was preceded in death by a grandchild, Tina. (El Dorado Times, February 4, 2008)
George Roy Mabry, Jr., 86, retired Mobil Oil Refinery carpenter and maintenance supervisor passed away Sunday, Jan. 20, 2008. George was born in Wichita on April 19, 1921 to George and Gertrude (Peck) Wallace, Sr. George served in the U.S. Army during WWII and then was married to Edna Mae “Jean” Hughes on Oct. 7, 1945 in Wichita. They were married for 53 years. They all precede him. Viewing will be from 10 to 5 and visitation with family greeting friends from 5 to 7, both on Thursday. Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the First United Methodist Church, with Pastor Curtis Cadenhead officiating. Interment in Elmwood Cemetery immediately following the service. Survivors: loving, devoted companion, Treva Dunsford, Augusta; son, Calvin (Sherry) Mabry, El Dorado; daughters, Bonnie (Norman) Clark, Houston, Barbara (Miles) Johnson, Warner Robins, Georgia, and Carol (John) Novak, El Dorado; sisters, Donna (Lowell) Putnam, Augusta, and Doris (Bill) Chilcott, Phoenix; 12 grandchildren; and 16 great-grand-grandchildren. Memorial designated to the First United Methodist Church. Services entrusted to Dunsford~Zeiner Zeiner Funeral Home. (El Dorado Times, January 24, 2008)
Lorene J. McGahan, 78 of El Dorado died Saturday, Feb. 2, 2008 at Via Christi St. Joseph Campus. The celebration of her life will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Kirby Morris Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow the services in Walnut Valley Memorial Park Cemetery.
Lorene was born July 26, 1929 in El Dorado the daughter of Claude and Opal Newsom McGahan. She had lived all of her life in this area. She was an associate of Flint Hills Services. She was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church. She loved to play Bingo and do needlework.
Surviving family include one sister, LaVerne Gates of Wichita; nieces and nephews, Ann Gates, Lynn Ramsey, Janice Lau, Richard Ingold, and Patricia Wilkerson; 7 great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by one sister Helen Ingold.
Memorials have been established with either the First United Methodist Church or Flint Hills Services. (El Dorado Times, February 4, 2008)
Walter Lee McGee, 86, of Towanda, died Jan. 29, 2008 at his home.The celebration of his life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday at the First Assembly of God in Andover. Burial will follow the services in the Towanda cemetery. The family will be at the Kirby Morris Funeral Home from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday.
Mr. McGee was born Oct. 2, 1921 in Chickalah, Ark., the son of Orval Patrick and Mary Pauline (Tarlton) McGee. On Oct. 10, 1942, he was united in marriage to Lucille M. Hopper in Norman, Okla. For more than 37 years, he worked as the district superintendent for The Superior Oil Company. He also had received a number of certifications in petroleum engineering while working for the oil company. During WWII, he served his country in the United States Navy as an aviation machinist. He was very active in the Assembly of God Church in Chickasha, Okla., and Andover, having served as a Deacon of the church.
Surviving family include: his wife, Lucille of the home; one son, Missionary Mike McGee of McAllen, Texas; daughters, Patsy Lou Borttorf of Lebanon, Tenn., and Sharon (Sheri) Grbic of Towanda; brothers, Wayne and Elmer Glen of Texas; sisters, Helen and Berniece both of California, and Inez of Texas; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
A memorial has been established with the Assembly of God Church. (El Dorado Times, February 1, 2008)
A celebration of the life of Robert Matteson Montgomery of Sherman will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday in the First United Methodist Church of Sherman with Dr. Jim Pledger and Dr. Tom Peel officiating. Burial will follow at West Hill Cemetery with members of the Texoma Woodcarvers Guild serving as pallbearers. Mr. Montgomery passed away Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2008 at Wilson N. Jones Medical Center at the age of 83.
Bob was born on Feb. 12, 1924 in El Dorado, to the late Wellington and Nellie (Matteson) Montgomery. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He and Marion Orr married on Nov. 4, 1943 in El Dorado. They were married 63 years until her death in September 2006. Bob worked as a mechanical engineer for Texas Instruments, retiring in 1985. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and was an active member of the Adult Fellowship Sunday School Class. Bob’s hobbies included camping, fishing, woodcarving, and woodworking. He was a longtime member of the Texoma Woodcarvers Guild.
Mr. Montgomery is survived by two sons, Robert F. “Bob” Montgomery and his wife Carolyn of Sherman and David L. Montgomery and wife Danyne of Farmersville; one daughter, Mary M. Blum and her husband John of Asher, Okla.; 10 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sherman Community Players Endowment Fund at 500 N. Elm, Sherman, TX 75090 or the charity of the donor’s choice. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Waldo Funeral Home. (El Dorado Times, February 7, 2008)
Franz P. Neumann, of Round Rock, Texas, died on Jan, 19, 2008. Franz was born Aug. 15, 1912 in Bartlesville, Okla., to Paul and Theresa Neumann. His mother and father, a baby brother, sister, Janet, and his wife of 58 years, Virginia Maxwell of Douglas, predeceased him.
As a young man, Franz was a Boy Scout, delivered newspapers, worked in an uncle’s grocery store, and helped deliver ice to an icehouse in Steven’s Point, WI.
He graduated from El Dorado Jr. College, El Dorado, where he played varsity basketball and lettered in tennis. He was in the Army in World War II. Franz retired from American Petrofina after 43 years of service.
He enjoyed activities with the Elks Lodge of El Dorado and played saxophone in the El Dorado Community Band. His hobbies included golf, bowling and woodworking. He won ribbons at the State Fair of Texas for his handmade wooden toys.
Franz’s devotion to family and friends will never be forgotten. His generosity knew no bounds.
Franz is survived by his daughters, Mary Bass and husband Gene of Yantis, Texas, and Barbara Rockhold, and husband Neal of Round Rock, Texas; four grandchildren, Lisa Moore of Lewisville, Gary Moore and wife Candace of Nacogdoches, Chris Rockhold and wife Marlo of Leander, and Jeff Rockhold of Austin; sister, Marjorie Carlson of Hughson, Calif.; three great-grandchildren, Garret and Carter Moore and Lane Rockhold; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Heartfelt thanks are extended to the staff of Pflugerville Care Center and Lighthouse Hospice for their care and comfort during his last days.
Visitation was from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral in Pflugerville, Texas, where a funeral service will be celebrated at 1 p.m. today in the Memorial Chapel of the funeral Home. Interment will follow at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Cemetery. (El Dorado Times, January 24, 2008)
Rosalie V. Reynolds, 94, died Saturday, Jan. 26, 2008 at Lakepoint Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Celebration of her life will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Walnut Valley Memorial Park Cemetery.
Rosalie was born Oct. 8, 1913 at Hubbard Ore., the daughter of Bernard and Lena Becker. She graduated from Halstead High School. She moved to El Dorado in 1951. She was a homemaker and loved to quilt, crochet and sing at care homes. Rosalie was united in marriage to Ralph Reynolds on Jan. 25, 1979 in El Dorado. She was a member of the First Methodist Church.
Surviving family include: her sons, Duane Becker and Marvin Evans, both of El Dorado; sisters, Lois Stroud of Lawrence and Dorothy Casebeer of McPherson; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Ralph, four sisters and one brother.
A memorial has been established with the First United Methodist Church. Contributions may be left with Kirby-Morris Funeral Home who is assisting the family with their arrangements. (El Dorado Times, January 28, 2008)
Judith Ann Andrews Siegrist, of Kiowa and formerly of El Dorado, went to be with our Lord on Jan. 28, 2008 at Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. The Celebration of her life will be held 10 a.m. Thursday at Kirby-Morris Funeral Home.
She was born Oct. 16, 1940 to Calvin F. and Maxine Andrews in El Dorado. She attended schools in El Dorado and was a homemaker. She loved to read and collect antiques. She is survived by her husband, Les Siegrist of Kiowa; her mother, Maxine Andrews of El Dorado; son, Christopher S. DeWeese of Cromwell, Okla.; daughters, Teresa DeWeese of Anthony, Julie and Rollie Dodds of Kiowa, and Cary and Larry Carroll of Garden Plain; seven grandchildren; one great-grandson; brothers, Terry and Marlene Andrews of El Dorado and Ed and Carolyn Andrews of El Dorado; sisters, Kathy and Dennis Eaton of El Dorado and Becky and Tommy Madison of Southlake, Texas; and a stepdaughter, Ruth Combs of Emporia.
She is preceded in death by her daughter Laura Lynn De Weese and father Calvin F. Andrews.
Memorials have been established with Harry Hynes Hospice and the Kiowa Public Library. (El Dorado Times, February 4, 2008)
SMITH, DONALD LEE SR. (SNUFFY)
Donald Lee Smith, Sr. (Snuffy), 64, of Yates Center and formerly of El Dorado, died Thursday Feb. 7, 2008 at the Medical Center of The Rockies in Loveland, Colo. The celebration of his life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Walnut Valley Memorial Park.
Donald “Snuffy” was born Aug. 13, 1943 in El Dorado, the son of Clyde and Dottie (Meer) Smith. He attended schools in El Dorado, graduating from El Dorado High School. He was united in marriage to Rita L. Hancock on March 12, 1962 in Eureka. He was a pipeline inspector for the Gas Company and a rancher. He loved to weld, fish and spend time with his family.
Surviving family include: his wife, Rita of the home; children, Kimberly and David Hull of Hamilton, Kristina and Rick Smith Tyner of Toronto and Jason and Lorie Smith of Sparta, Tenn.; father and step-mother Clyde and Erma Smith of Toronto; brothers Bruce, Louie, Clyde, Lonnie, T.J. and Jack; 15 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his mother, Dottie Marie Andrews; sisters, Penny and Linda Smith; brothers, Floyd Smith and Robert Andrews; grandson, Nathan Arnold Smalley; and son, Donald L. Smith Jr.
Kirby Morris Funeral Home is in Charge of arrangements. (El Dorado Times, February 11, 2008)
Ellis V. Smith, 84, of Burns, died Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2008 at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Wichita. Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Eden Church of God in Christ Mennonite, with Ministers Lowell Koehn and Vernon Koehn presiding. Burial will be at Eden Mennonite Church Cemetery in Burns. Visitation will be from 3 to 9 p.m. today and from 1 to 5 p.m. Friday at Petersen Funeral Home.
Ellis was born Dec. 23, 1923 in Halstead, the son of Ike and Rhoda (Unruh) Smith. On March 10, 1946, he was married to Fern Johnson in Fairview, Okla. He was a member of the Eden Church of God in Christ Mennonite in rural Burns. Ellis was a wheat farmer and worked in various manufacturing plants including Guerdons and Detroiter Mobile Home in Newton. He enjoyed woodworking, collecting old tools and making wooden toys. Ellis looked forward to spending time with his loving family and many friends.
Survivors include:?his wife of Burns; sons, Norman Smith of Potwin and Randall Smith of Newton; daughters, Gloria Haire of Middleburg, Pa., and Beverly Smith of Newton; a brother, Jake Smith of Molino, Fla.; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to the Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice or Gospel Tract Bible Society. Petersen Funeral Home has the arrangements. (El Dorado Times, February 7, 2008)
Mrs. Amelia K. Corbin of Latham, died at 10:30 o’clock last night at St. Luke’s hospital. Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at the Christian Church at Latham. The body is in charge of the Wigginton Funeral Home.
Mrs. Corbin was born near Cedar Falls, Iowa, on April 16, 1859. She was 66 years, nine months and 26 days old. Her maiden name was Rudloff. Her parents were born and married in Germany. She married D. E. Corbin 46 years ago and to them were born nine children. They are: Mrs. J. E. Rankin, Earl and Gordon Corbin, of Latham, Harry Corbin of Wichita, Mrs. Elma Farner, of Parsons, Mrs. Leon Hitching, of Fowler, Miss Grace Corbin an instructor in the schools at Great Falls, Mont., Miss Evelyn Corbin who teaches in the Liberal Schools and Roy Corbin, deceased.
Two sisters and one brother also survive Mrs. Corbin. They are Mrs. Spicer, who lives in Oklahoma, Mrs. Werkheiser, Nevada, Mo., and William Rudloff of Howard.
Mrs. Corbin was a typical pioneer mother. She and Mr. Corbin reared their family on the Corbin Ranch, east of Latham. They endured many hardships together in the early eighties, but they strove to educate their children and several of them are college graduates. About twenty years ago, they moved to Latham so the children would have better school advantages and where Mr. Corbin has engaged in the mercantile and banking business.
Devoted to her home and children and her church, Mrs. Corbin led a quiet but powerful life. She held the highest ideals for her church and her children. Her influence was steady, wholesome and Christ like. She was the truest type of the old fashioned mother whose kingdom was in the home and it can be truly said of her “Give her of the fruit of her hand and let her own words praise her in the gates.” Mrs. Corbin was a member of the Christian Church. (El Dorado Times, January 13, 1926)
David Edward Henry, was born near Praxton, Ill., February 24, 1859, and died on Tuesday, January 12, at his home in the Economy neighborhood. He was the son of Robert Henry and Mary Leatherman Henry.
In 1879, when he was twenty years old, he came with his parents to Butler County. The Henry’s bought the farm on which the family still lives. With the exception of a few years, following a severe storm, in 1882, Mr. Henry, lived on the farm continuously until his death. In this storm, his mother lost her life and other members of the family sustained severe injuries. The house and all the farm buildings were completely destroyed and the family moved to El Dorado for a short time.
Mr. Henry was married to Miss Mary Eleanor Walter on January 19, 1895. To this union were born three sons, Robert Walter, Vernon Earl and David basil, all of whom survive their father, and one daughter, Mary Catherine, who died at the age of 12 years. Mrs. Henry survives her husband and he also leaves two sisters, Miss Mary Ann Henry and Miss Elizabeth Catherine Henry.
Mr. Henry had been in poor health for the past five years. He made every effort to regain his health but without avail. Everything was done by the members of his family to make his last days comfortable. Mr. Henry was an upright and honorable man and will be missed by all who knew him. Without hesitation and without display he faithfully performed his part in every activity. He had the respect of his neighbors.
Funeral services were held at the home at 2 o’clock Thursday afternoon. They were conducted by the Rev. S. C. Foster, pastor of the Harmony Methodist Church. Burial was made in the Quito Cemetery.
Mrs. Florence Spears, of Chicago, Mrs. Clara Walker and son, John of Ariz.; Mrs. Nannie Brasfield, and Mrs. Kittie Walter, of Norwich here to attend the funeral. (El Dorado Times, Saturday, January 16, 1926)
Mrs. Lydia Parker Miller, aged 85 years, wife of Henry Miller died at 8:45 o’clock this morning at her home, 703 South Denver street. She was born on December 19, 1840 at Dallas, Ill. She had lived in El Dorado for the past 38 years and came here from Eureka. Several months ago she fell and sustained a broken hip. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Funeral arrangements have not been made.
Mrs. Miller is survived by her aged husband, and four daughters and three sons. They are: Mrs. Dora Lawler, Denver, Colo., Mrs. Eva McColgan, Wichita, Mrs. Rokie Brennan, El Dorado, Mrs. Effie Brenner, El Dorado, L. W. Miller, Quinter, Rance Miller, El Dorado and Leonard Miller, El Dorado. One son, Luther Miller, died last September in Denver and his body was brought to El Dorado for burial. (El Dorado Times, January 8, 1926)
Marilyn Kay (Hilyard) Miller, 45, of Woodward, Okla., died Saturday, Nov. 12, 1994, at HCA Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. Services are 11 a.m. Wednesday at the First Christian church in Woodward. Graveside services will be held at 3 p.m. in Stafford (Kan.) Cemetery.
She was born Jan. 9, 1949, in Stafford, the daughter of Clarence and Nadine (Carson) Hilyard and grew up in Arkansas City where she graduated from high school. She moved to Woodward, Okla. in 1974 and was owner of Marilyn’s Style Shop. She was a member of the First Christian Church in Woodward.
Survivors include: sons, Dallas of Edmond, Okla., Alex of Woodward, daughter, Brooke Andrews of Woodward, father, Clarence “Whitie” Hilyard of El Dorad, stepmother, Janice Hilyard of El Dorado, brother Mark Hilyard of Ponca City, Okla., sisters, Jann Ziegler of El Dorado, Sue Johnson of Wichita, stepsister, Elissa Hilyard of Tampa, Fla., one granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her mother.
Memorials are to an educational fund established for the children. Kirby Morris Funeral Home has the arrangements. Visitation will be held Tuesday at Billings Funeral Home in Woodward. (El Dorado Times, Nov. 15, 1994)
Gayle Eugene Milligan of Marina Del Ray, Calif., died Monday, Feb. 21, 1994. He was born Sept. 7, 1938.
Survivors include: wife, son, Mike of California, daughter, Kelly Shipstead of Colorado, two grandchildren, sister, mother, Ophelia Milligan of El Dorado. (El Dorado Times, Feb. 22, 1994)
Nola “B” Milliken, 83, of El Dorado, died Sunday, Nov. 13, 1994, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. Graveside services will be 3 p.m. Thursday in Greenwood Cemetery, Eureka. Cremation preceded the services.
She was born Feb. 18,1911, in Eureka, the daughter of Jasper Clarence and Tolena Andrea Holverson Moore. She was a homemaker and had done secretarial work for several businesses. She moved to El Dorado in 1970 from Los Angeles and was a member of the First Christian Church, Women of the Moose and the Golden Age Club.
On April 10, 1946, she and Ray Milliken were married in Parsons. He died March 8, 1974.
Survivors include: son, Joseph D. Cracraft of Las Vegas, six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, son, Jack Edwin, two brothers, and one sister.
Memorials are to Basic Cancer Research at Kansas State University and to the donor’s choice. Carlson Funeral Home has the arrangements. (El Dorado Times, Nov. 14, 1994)
Jewell Ruby Mills, 86, of Towanda died Saturday, August 13, 1994. Services are 2 p.m. Tuesday at Kirby Morris Funeral Home.
She was born March 28, 1908, in Berry County, Mo., the daughter of Robert Edwin and Nancy Ann (Highbarger) Sims, and she lived more than 65 years in Towanda. During WWII, she worked in Wichita at the Boeing Aircraft Company.
On Dec. 5, 1925, she and Floyd Preston Mills were married in Boonville, Mo. he died in 1972. Her memberships included the Towanda United Methodist Church of Christ, OES Chapter 88 where she had been Past Worthy Matron, and the White Shrine in El Dorado.
Survivors include: sons, Herb, Melvin “Bill”, both of Towanda, Charles “Chuck” of Las Vegas, 13 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by seven brothers.
Memorials are to Towanda Senior Citizens Center. (El Dorado Times, Aug. 15, 1994)
Services were held Sept. 29 at Highland Trinity United Church of Christ for A. J. “Art” Molzen, 87, of Newton, retired farmer, who died Monday, Sept. 26, 1994.
He was the husband of Ethel Hurd McCormick, formerly of El Dorado.
Survivors include: wife, Ethel, daughter, Donna Lehman of Hesston, stepdaughter, Marsha Schmidt of Fayetteville, N.C.; brothers, Don of Hemet, Calif., Ralph of Sun City, Calif., three grandchildren, two stepgrandchildren, eight great-grandchildren.
Memorials are to Highland Trinity United Church of Christ, Wichita Midian Shrine Temple, 130 N. Topeka, Wichita, 67202 and Shrine Burn Center, 610 Strand, Galveston, Texas, 77550. Petersen Funeral Home, Newton had the arrangements. (El Dorado Times, Oct. 6, 1994)
Helen M. Monckton, 63, of Wichita, died Thursday, Feb. 17, 1994. Rosary will be 7:30 p.m. Sunday and services will be 11 a.m. Monday, both at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.
Survivors include husband, Lawrence, sons, Tom and Doug, both of Wichita, Connie Boose of Harker Heights, Texas; father, Harlan Smith of New Carlisle, Ind., sister, Marilyn Pfiefer of Pueblo, Colo., 16 grandchildren.
Memorial has been established with the Arthritis Foundation, Kansas Chapter and the American Heart Association.
Downing and Lahey Mortuary has the arrangements. (El Dorado Times, Feb. 19, 1994)
Barbara E. Montgomery, 82, homemaker, of Wichita, died Friday, April 1, 1994. Services are 2 p.m. Tuesday at Hillside Funeral Home.
Survivors include: daughters, Marlis Patterson, Linda Berry, both of Scotts Valley, Calif., Dee Cole of Wichita, sisters, Elma Page of Osceola, Mo., Mary Brandon of Wichita, Wilma McKinney of Mulvane, Pat Pierce of El Dorado, 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren.
Memorials are to Andover Methodist Church Children’s Ministries and Hospice Inc. (El Dorado Times, Apr. 4, 1994)
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