Obituary - Wilma Maxine Gier

Wilma Maxine Gier, 92, of Adrian, MO, formerly of Rich Hill, MO, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 24, 2026 in Harrisonville, MO. A visitation will be held at Heuser Funeral Home, Rich Hill, MO on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. followed by a Celebration of Life at 5:00 p.m.. A private family graveside service will be held following the Celebration of Life. Memorial contributions can be made to the Adrian Fire Department in her honor.

Wilma Maxine (Diehl) Gier was born August 25, 1933 in Rich Hill, MO. Born to George O. & Mary Pauline (Stewart) Diehl. Wilma attended Rich Hill, MO high school. Wilma married Gilbert Jackson, and of this marriage two children were born; Linda (Jackson) Casey & G. Bruce Jackson. Later Wilma was married to the true love of her life, Bill “the Barber” Gier.

Wilma worked for Tiona Truck Line for 10 years, and later made her mark as a Real Estate Broker for A&R Real Estate. Wilma had a deep passion for the wilderness and mountains, as well as all its animals. Her fondest memories were of those she shared with Bill on their

many vacations throughout the wilderness of America. In her later years, Wilma enjoyed watching every Chiefs football game with a cold crisp Sunkist, visiting with her loved ones, being a brutally honest taste tester for whatever new recipe Jonhenry & Makenna tried for dinner, and most of all eating fried chicken with her beloved dog Trixie, every Thursday. Wilma had a passion for Jesus that she was not afraid to share with anyone. She often shared her excitement to be able to see her Lord & Savior.

One of Wilma’s greatest accomplishments and joys of life was her great grandson Jonhenry. From the moment he was born he was her best friend, and she was his. Wilma took on a new challenge when Jonhenry was 12 and he came to live with her. The two made countless memories and shared many wonderful years together. Though life was not easy, she never wavered in making sure he was cared for, supported, and deeply loved. Her pride and love for Jonhenry and Makenna were evident in everything she did, and their special bond was one she treasured. Wilma loved her law enforcement family deeply (many of whom called her “grandma”), introduced to her by her great grandson. No matter what uniform was worn, she welcomed them to her table where many dinners and visits were held, often time swapping war stories with the guys. She continued to share a home and her life with Jonhenry, and his wife Makenna, over the years, creating many cherished memories together. Wilma touched the hearts of many, and worked hard to make sure you knew she loved you. She will be missed greatly, by all who knew her, but her memory and the life lessons she shared, will be carried on forever. She leaves behind one important message to all; love hard, enjoy the little things, laugh constantly, and most importantly love Jesus.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents; husband Bill; her two brothers Raymond and Orville; her two children Linda (Jackson) Casey & Bruce Jackson; and her beloved four legged friend Trixie. She is survived by grandchildren Jamie Bise, Mary Beth Hill, Kelly (Jill) Kiester; her great grandchildren Jonhenry (Makenna) Jackson, Karter Keister, Tanna

Keister, SamanthaMcCarty-Kiester, TearstenKeister, JacksonHill; andahostofextended familyandfriends.
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Obituary - Carol Grandon

Carol Grandon (Knecht), beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, at The University of Kansas Health Olathe Hospice House. She was born on November 1, 1943, in Louisburg, Kansas, the cherished daughter of Clarence and Lucile Knecht.

Carol grew up in her hometown of Louisburg, where she attended local schools and graduated with the Louisburg High School class of 1961. Those who knew her in her early years remember a young woman with a joyful spirit and an ever-present smile. Shortly after graduation, Carol’s life took a happy turn when she married her high school sweetheart, Bob Grandon, on August 31, 1962, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Their loving partnership was a source of deep happiness and stability that anchored her life for many years.

A lifelong resident of Louisburg, Carol was devoted not only to her family but also to her faith community, maintaining lifelong membership at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Her faith was evident in her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for those around her.

Professionally, Carol found her passion in serving others as a hairdresser, dedicating over 30 years to her craft. She was the proud owner and operator of Carol’s Beauty Salon—a place known not just for hair care, but for the laughter, camaraderie, and friendship she offered every client who walked through her door. Excellence in her work and compassion for her clientele defined Carol’s career, leaving an indelible mark on all she served.

Carol’s joy radiated from the simple pleasures she embraced daily. She had a love for mowing her yard, tending lovingly to her flowers, and helping her husband with the farm. Carol’s kitchen was often filled with the delicious aroma of her baking—another testament to the care she poured into everything she did. However, her greatest passion was her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly the light of her life. She cherished every moment spent with them, her love for each boundless and unconditional.

To her family and friends, Carol was the embodiment of sweetness, strength, and selflessness. She was always quick with laughter and smiles, placing the happiness and wellbeing of others before her own. Her caring nature shone in her unfailing desire to ensure everyone was taken care of and had what they needed.

Carol is survived by her loving daughter, Cathy (Greg) Clayton; her devoted son, Ronnie (Lorraine) Grandon; her treasured grandchildren, Colby (Lori) Reed, Shelby Grandon, and Hayley Grandon; her adored great-grandchildren, Kensington Reed and Braelynn Reed; and her dear brother, Larry Knecht. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Grandon; her father, Clarence Knecht; and her mother, Lucile Knecht.

Carol’s legacy endures in the lives of her family, the warmth of her friendships, and the countless memories shared throughout her remarkable life. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her unwavering compassion, gentle strength, and the joyful spirit she brought to every day.

Rosary will be prayed at 5:30 pm, Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Dengel & Son Mortuary - Louisburg Chapel, 1 Aquatic Drive, Louisburg, KS 66053. Visitation will follow from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am, Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 606 S Elm Street, Louisburg, KS 66053. Burial will follow at the St. Mary Cemetery, Louisburg, KS.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made payable to the Alzheimer's Association , P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC 20090, or to the University of Kansas Health Olathe Hospice House, Attn: Marsha 15310 S Marion St, Olathe, KS 66061.

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Obituary - Jim Anderson

Jim Anderson’s wishes were to be cremated and remembered with fond memories. There are no public services planned at this time. Arrangements under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Contributions to the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel for expenses. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

James “Jim” Chester Anderson, age 62 of Butler, Missouri died Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at his home. He was born July 13, 1964 to William and Rosalee Agers Anderson in Washington County, Missouri.

Jim is survived by two daughters, Christina Cummings and husband Mike of Butler, Missouri and Sultana; one half-brother, Nicholas Ray Miller; one sister, Tina Anderson of Butler, Missouri; two brothers, Henry Anderson of Butler, Missouri and Floyd Anderson. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Wallace Christoper Anderson and Joe Anderson; and one sister, Irene Blair.

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Obituary - Jimmie Don Melton

Jimmie Don Melton, 78, Nevada, MO, passed from this life on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, KS. Jim was born October 10, 1947 in Nevada, to Wiley Don and Margaret Mary (Widman) Melton. He married Suzanne Bailey on January 26, 1969 in Nevada and they celebrated 57 years of marriage before his passing.

     Jim was raised in Walker, MO and graduated from Walker High School Class of 1965. For a time, he drove fertilizer trucks for Caldwell and Sons before deciding to pursue his passion for the appliance business. Jim was in the appliance business for over 50 years and owned and operated his own store, Jim’s Appliance and Repair. Through the years, he met many people and made many friends with his easy-going ways. Jim loved being with his family. He especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and never missed a game. He was a member of the Nevada Elks, Ducks Unlimited, and an avid duck hunter.   

      In addition to his wife, Suzanne of the home, he is survived by two children: Don Melton (Jill), Webb City, MO, and Christy Ast (Kevin), Nevada; five grandchildren, Trey Melton, Osh Kosh, WI, Braxton Melton, Nixa, MO, Bailey Ast, Nevada, Riley Melton, Webb City, and Kellan Ast, Nevada; his beloved dog, Timber; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, A.E. Melton.

      Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. The family will receive friends from 10-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Private interment will follow in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Dederick, MO.

     Memorials are suggested in his name to Mt Pleasant Cemetery c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

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Obituary - Geraldine Fisher

Geraldine Fisher, 88, of Archie, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Golden Years in Harrisonville, MO. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, August 28, 2026, with a visitation starting at 1:00 pm, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO. Burial in the Austin Cemetery, Archie, MO.

A complete obituary will be added when it becomes available.

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Obituary - Jason Meran

On Friday, August 7, our lives were forever changed when our beloved son, brother, uncle and friend, Jason Meran, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Kansas City, Missouri. Jason was 45 years old and deeply loved by so many.

Jason was a loyal friend, a great listener, and someone with an endless curiosity about the world around him. He had many interests and hobbies, including his love for animals, especially dogs and cats, growing plants and BIG banana trees, music, chemistry, and so much more. When something interested Jason, he wanted to learn everything he could about it.

Jason had recently made an exciting change in his life, leaving his career delivering hazardous materials to pursue a career in nursing. He was looking forward to beginning nursing school later in August and was excited about this new chapter and the opportunity to care for and help others.

Jason is survived by his mother and stepfather, Jill and Tom Petrzelka; his sister and brother-in-law, Lyndsay and Jason Henderson; his nephews, Layne Cook, Isaiah Henderson and Isaac Henderson; and his nieces, Gracie Cook and Isabella Henderson. He is also survived by his special friend, Megan Merrill; and his aunts, Kris Veneski, Robin Meran Lucas and Peggy Sue Webb.Jason was preceded in death by his father, Tim Meran, and his grandparents.

Jason's unexpected passing has left an enormous hole in our hearts and in the lives of everyone who loved him. We will miss his conversations, his curiosity, his friendship, his humor, and simply knowing he was there.Jason was one of a kind, and he will be loved, remembered and missed more than words can express.

A celebration of Jason's life will be held at a later date.

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Obituary - Virginia Mae (Mason) Eckart

Virginia Mae (Mason) Eckart, 51, of Garden City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at NorthCare Hospice House in North Kansas City, MO. Cremation will take place and in accordance with Virginia's wishes, no services will be held at this time.

Virginia was born on October 14, 1974, at Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City, South Dakota, to Harold "Hap" and Wendy (Jacques) Nelson. Virginia spent her early years in Cape Girardeau, MO, where her dedication to service became evident. She was a proud member of Job's Daughters, a youth organization that instilled in her the values of leadership and community. Virginia worked tirelessly to achieve the esteemed title of Honored Queen, a testament to her commitment and passion for helping others.

After graduating high school in Cape Girardeau, MO, Virginia pursued a fulfilling career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), dedicating her life to the care and support of those in need. Her nurturing spirit and kind-hearted nature left a lasting impact on her patients and their families. Virginia's dedication extended beyond her work; she was an active member of the Real Life Church in Belton, Missouri, where she found joy and spiritual connection. Virginia's vibrant personality shone through her unwavering support for the Kansas City Chiefs, embodying the spirit of a true fan.

Virginia was preceded in death by both her maternal and paternal grandparents and her beloved Aunt Elaine Priesy. She is survived by her fiance, Kendal Habernehl of Garden City, MO; her two sons: John and Chris Eckart of Kansas City, MO; three grandchildren; her father, Harold (Carolyn) Mason, of Rossville, Georgia; her mother, Wendy Nelson, of Magazine, Arkansas; her two sisters: Michelle Robinson of Rossville, Georgia; and Joanna Mercer of Canton, Ohio; her brother, Steven Mason of Dunlap, Tennessee; two uncles: Craig (Joyce) Mason of St. Charles, MO; and Carl (Lisa) Mason of Minneapolis, Minnesota; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.Her departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who loved her, but cherished memories of her vibrant spirit will forever resonate.

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Obituary - Wayne Laverne Cobb

Wayne Laverne Cobb, 89, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Crown Care Center in Harrisonville. A Celebration of Life honoring Wayne will be held on Saturday, August, 29, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, at the Harrisonville Heights Community Room, located at 201 Jesi, Harrisonville, MO. Private inurnment will be at Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville.

Wayne was born on January 19, 1937, in Osceola, MO, to Lewis Edward and Mary Elizabeth (Murray) Cobb. After completing his education at Peculiar High School in 1955, he embarked on a lifelong journey of hard work and dedication. He married the love of his life, Helen Louise Helmick, on June 16, 1960, and together they built a beautiful life filled with laughter and shared adventures.

Wayne's career spanned over four decades, beginning as a young man when he helped his father with his trucking business and hauled gravel. He then went on to work for SS Kresge's in Downtown Kansas City, before moving to Solo Cup Co in Grandview, where he celebrated numerous anniversary milestones during his 40 year tenure and formed lasting friendships before his retirement in 2000. He enjoyed contributing his time to the Democrat Missourian after his retirement. A longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Peculiar, Wayne was baptized on November 9, 1952, and embodied the values of faith and community throughout his life.

In his free time, Wayne and Louise cherished over 40 years of RV adventures, exploring the great outdoors and making unforgettable memories while camping and traveling. His love for animals was evident, as he embraced the companionship of his pets with open arms and a warm heart.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Billie Cobb Tracy; stepfather, Clarence Mix; his sister, Bonnie Plunkett; stepsister, Nelta Brook; and infant sister, Imogene Cobb. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Helen Louise, of the home; two half-sisters: Marcella Skook and Dena Deggs; two stepsisters: Karen Shaw and Belva McCoy; sister-in-law, Jan Harper, of Harrisonville, MO; niece, Kathy Lambertz, of Harrisonville, MO; and a host of great and great-great nieces and nephews, friends, and the cherished Coffee Club guys.

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Obituary - Dayton Lange

Dayton Lange, age 18, of Nevada, MO, passed away Thursday, August 20, 2026.

Arrangements are pending, courtesy Ferry Funeral Home.

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Obituary - Robert Nelson

Robert Eugene Nelson born March, 25 1954 in Lemmon, South Dakota departed this life August 21, 2026 in Harrisonville, Missouri. Funeral Service will be held at Dickey’s Funeral Home in Harrisonville, Missouri on Friday, August 28, 2026. Visitation will be at 12:30 PM, service at 2 PM. Cremation to follow. A full obituary will be posted once that information becomes available.

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Obituary - Virginia Mae (Mason) Eckart

Virginia Mae (Mason) Eckart, 51, of Garden City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at NorthCare Hospice House in North Kansas City, MO. Cremation will take place and in accordance with Virginia's wishes, no services will be held at this time.

Virginia was born on October 14, 1974, at Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City, South Dakota, to Harold "Hap" and Wendy (Jacques) Nelson. Virginia spent her early years in Cape Girardeau, MO, where her dedication to service became evident. She was a proud member of Job's Daughters, a youth organization that instilled in her the values of leadership and community. Virginia worked tirelessly to achieve the esteemed title of Honored Queen, a testament to her commitment and passion for helping others.

After graduating high school in Cape Girardeau, MO, Virginia pursued a fulfilling career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), dedicating her life to the care and support of those in need. Her nurturing spirit and kind-hearted nature left a lasting impact on her patients and their families. Virginia's dedication extended beyond her work; she was an active member of the Real Life Church in Belton, Missouri, where she found joy and spiritual connection. Virginia's vibrant personality shone through her unwavering support for the Kansas City Chiefs, embodying the spirit of a true fan.

Virginia was preceded in death by both her maternal and paternal grandparents and her beloved Aunt Elaine Priesy. She is survived by her fiance, Kendal Habernehl of Garden City, MO; her two sons: John and Chris Eckart of Kansas City, MO; three grandchildren; her father, Harold (Carolyn) Mason, of Rossville, Georgia; her mother, Wendy Nelson, of Magazine, Arkansas; her two sisters: Michelle Robinson of Rossville, Georgia; and Joanna Mercer of Canton, Ohio; her brother, Steven Mason of Dunlap, Tennessee; two uncles: Craig (Joyce) Mason of St. Charles, MO; and Carl (Lisa) Mason of Minneapolis, Minnesota; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.Her departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who loved her, but cherished memories of her vibrant spirit will forever resonate.
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Obituary - Howard "Jerry" Thomas Crepeau

Funeral services for Howard "Jerry" Thomas Crepeau of Butler, Missouri will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Visitation prior to services 9 - 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Schowengerdt Chapel. Burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Howard “Jerry” Thomas Crepeau, age 70 of Butler, Missouri died Thursday, August 20, 2026 at St. Luke’s South Hospital in Overland Park, Kansas. He was born February 24, 1956 to Mrytle Louise Thomas in Wichita, Kansas. When Howard was a young child, Mrytle married Robert Roland Crepeau, who adopted Howard as his own.

Howard is survived by his wife, Karla Crepeau of Butler, Missouri; two aunts, Neva Miliron of Branson, Missouri and Sharon Westover of Butler, Missouri; parents-in-law, David and Kay Gayman of Grove, Oklahoma; brother-in-law, Rick Gayman of Branson, Missouri; sister-in-law, Kim Hauser of Grove, Oklahoma; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Howard was preceded in death by his mother and three siblings.

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Obituary - Carl Black

Carl Leon Black, 90, of Prescott, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2026. He was born September 5, 1935, in Prescott, Kansas, to Clovie Lloyd and Edith Holmes Black. He graduated from Prescott High School with the Class of 1953. Carl worked as, and truly was, a cowboy. He ran cattle and raised horses the cowboy way. His interests included rodeo, Catahoula hounds, wolf hunting, and spending time with family. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Kay Black. Carl is survived by two daughters, Carla Black, and Cathy Hoover and husband Steve, his special friend Beverly Chandler, a “brother” Kyle Cummings, five grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.

Graveside funeral service will be held 11 am Saturday, August 22, 2026 at the Prescott, Kansas Cemetery. Carl will lie in state from 10 am to 5 pm Friday, August 21, 2025 at the Schneider Funeral Home, Pleasanton Chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to Fostering Connections, Lacy Nickelson, Founder, serving Linn County and Southeast Kansas. Contributions can be sent to Schneider Funeral Home, P.O. Box 525, Pleasanton, Kansas 66075. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.

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Obituary - Ronnie Johnson

Ronnie Johnson’s wishes were to be cremated and remembered with fond memories. There are no public services at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Contributions to the Esophageal Cancer Action Network in his honor. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Ronald “Ronnie” Dean Johnson died August 18, 2026 at his home in Butler, Missouri surrounded by his family. Ronnie was born September 5, 1964 in Clinton, Missouri to David Howard and Dolly Faye Allen Johnson.

Ronnie married Lisa Marie Erhart on January 28, 1984 in Clinton, Missouri. Together they raised two daughters, Samantha Joann and Amanda Sue. He loved fishing, hunting and playing pitch. His greatest joys were his grandchildren, Emma, Michaela, Riley and Sawyer.

Ronnie is preceded in death by his father, David; brother, Daniel; two sisters, Francis and Nancy; and in-laws, Bill and Joan Erhart. He is survived by his wife, Lisa of the home; daughters, Samantha Westmorland and Amanda Fleischer and husband Keith, all of Butler, Missouri; grandchildren, Emma Grace and Micaela LeeAnn Miller and Riley Edward and Sawyer Merle Fleischer; two sisters, Tina Howe (Wendel) and Rosie Butler; three brothers, David, Walter and Billy; mother, Dolly Butler; and aunts, nieces, nephews and friends.

To honor Ronnie’s memory the family asks that you take yourself fishin’.
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Obituary - Alvin Lee Yokley

Alvin Lee Yokley, 77, of Nevada, Missouri, passed away on August 18, 2026, following a short illness. Alvin was born November 15, 1948, to Fred and Wanda Yokley and grew up on the family farm outside of Sheldon, Missouri. His early years on the farm helped shape a life that would always be closely tied to hard work, agriculture, and the communities of southwest Missouri.

On January 16, 1976, Alvin married Vicki Yokley. Together, they made their home in Nevada, Missouri, where they built a life that spanned nearly five decades. Through all of life's seasons, Alvin and Vicki remained by one another's side until her passing in 2025.

Alvin's working life took him down several roads—quite literally at first. He spent his early career as an over-the-road truck driver, hauling commodities and other freight across the country. Later, he traded the highway for entrepreneurship, opening and operating a lube center in Nevada that served the local community.

In the years that followed, Alvin returned to work closely connected to the agricultural roots of his childhood, becoming a custom fertilizer applicator. He spent many years traveling the back roads and farm fields of southwest Missouri and southeast Kansas, working with farmers throughout the region. The work was demanding, but it suited a man accustomed to long days and proud of getting the job done.

Away from work, Alvin enjoyed playing cards and dominoes with family and friends, hunting and fishing, and going out for meals with the people he cared about. Around the card table, he could often be counted on to keep score, and over the years those simple gatherings became some of the moments everyone came to treasure.

More than anything, Alvin and Vicki cherished being grandparents. Being Nana and Papa to Cale and Ava was one of the greatest joys they shared together. Alvin was one of their biggest supporters and was a familiar presence at their games, activities, and milestones throughout the years. He was especially proud of Ava and loved watching her pitch and play softball. He treasured the everyday memories he made with both of them, whether fishing, playing cards, shooting off fireworks on the Fourth of July, taking trips together, or simply spending time with them. Cale and Ava always knew Papa was in their corner.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Wanda Yokley, and his loving wife, Vicki Yokley. He is survived by his son, Brian Yokley and wife Christy of Gardner, Kansas; his daughters, Amy and Carrie; his grandchildren, Cale and Ava; and his brothers, Dan Yokley of Neosho, Missouri, and Steve Yokley.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 27 at Ferry Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28, at Ferry Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Brewer officiating. Interment will follow in Antioch Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the University of Kansas Medical Center in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

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Obituary - John Meredith Atwell

John Meredith Atwell, 83, of Pleasant Hill, MO, departed this life, Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Belton Regional Medical Center in Belton, MO. He was born December 12, 1942, in Independence, MO, to Guinn and Pauline Atwell. John grew up alongside his sister, Ginny Atwell, and graduated from school in El Dorado Springs, MO.

John married Shirley Walls on June 11, 1971, and together they raised three children: Debbie Callahan and her husband, Miller, of Harrisonville, MO; John Atwell Jr. and his wife, Miko, of Archie, MO; and Danny Atwell and his wife, Shelly, of Peculiar, MO. John later married Tammy Frock on October 15, 2011, and welcomed another daughter, Niki, into his family.

John was a proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren. They include Kyrie, Julianna, Bobby Jo, Ian, Kodee, Kole, Kaylee, Benjamin, Emma, Blayne, Connor and Abel.

John spent most of his working life as a truck driver. In his later years, he especially enjoyed working with adults with disabilities at Grand River Residential Services, LLC.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Guinn and Pauline Atwell; his sister, Ginny Atwell; his 1st wife of 35 years, Shirley Atwell; and his daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Miller Callahan.

John will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Tammy; his children, grandchildren, extended family, friends and all who knew him. His dedication, hard work, and love for his family will live on in the lives of those he loved.

Cremation with a Celebration of Life Service scheduled for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.

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Obituary - Charles Leon Hays

Charles Leon Hays, age 82 of La Cygne, Kansas passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, August 29 at the La Cygne Christian Church.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

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Obituary - Karen Anne Hartwick

Karen Anne Hartwick, age 76, of Creighton, Missouri, departed this life on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. Karen was born on November 8, 1949, in Kansas City, Missouri, the daughter of John and Virginia Wixom.

Karen graduated from Bishop Hogan High School in Kansas City, Missouri. She later attended Central Missouri State University, now known as the University of Central Missouri, on a full scholarship. A dedicated student, Karen maintained a 4.0 GPA while earning her bachelor’s degree in education. She went on to work in education for many years, sharing her knowledge and dedication with the students she served.

In 1968, at the age of 18, Karen was united in marriage to the love of her life and best friend, Johnny Lee Hartwick. Together, Karen and Johnny shared 58 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, family, and countless cherished memories. Their marriage was a true partnership, and Johnny remained Karen’s greatest love and closest companion throughout her life.

Karen had many interests that brought her happiness over the years. She had a love for art and enjoyed gardening, traveling, and spending time with her Red Hat friends. She was also a devoted cat lover and had a special place in her heart for her feline companions. Above all, Karen treasured her family and the time she was able to spend with those she loved.

Karen is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Johnny Lee Hartwick; her two children, Anthony John (Jennifer) Hartwick and Tonya Lynne (David) Reeves; five grandchildren, Devon Hartwick, Riley Hartwick, Cole Hartwick, Baileigh (Gage) Williams and Kaigon Boydston; one great-granddaughter, Naomi Williams; her sisters Kathy Marlatt and Linda Mosley; and her brother John Wixom; along with other relatives and many dear friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, John and Virginia Wixom; her brother, James Wixom; and her sisters, Pam Wixom Harden and Terri Wixom McCarthy.

Karen will be remembered for her intelligence, creativity, love for her family, and the devoted life she shared with her beloved husband, Johnny. Her memory will remain forever in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Visitation will be held 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 29, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonille, Missouri.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 29, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri.

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Obituary - Larry Loftin

Larry Steven Loftin (Steve), age 80 from Hume, Missouri died on July 14, 2026. He was born on December 11, 1945 in Monahans, Texas, the second son of William and Jessie Loftin. The family moved to Augusta, Arkansas when he was about ten and Steve graduated from Laura Conner HS in 1964. He attended Arkansas State Teachers College in Conway until he was drafted into the Army. He served in the Army from 1966-68 spending most of his time in Turkey. Upon returning he attended Arkansas State University in Jonesboro where he met and married his wife, Rebecca (Becky) Whitlock. They married in December of 1968 and have been married for 57 years.

Steve graduated with a BA degree in Business Administration. When finished with school, the couple moved to Memphis, Tennessee. Steve worked as a bank manager for First Tennessee. After 6 years, they moved to Kansas in the Ft. Scott area and then to Hume, Missouri where they have made their home for over 45 years. Two sons were born to them: Jeffrey Dean Loftin in 1978 and Keith Aaron Loftin in 1979. Steve worked as a boilermaker in Local 83 for almost four years and as a Journeyman Mechanic at Kansas Power and Light for 23 years. He attended the Hume Christian Church, was a Hume School Board member for 10 years, coached T-Ball and Little League, and served in the Masons.

Steve retired in 2004 and did more of what he truly loved: fishing, hunting, gardening, yardwork, traveling, and, of course, spending time with his family. Fishing favorites for him were spending time down in the Gulf area and fishing with nephew, BP King and friend, Mike Casey. He also enjoyed fishing our pit from his pontoon boat, named "Arky" by his good friend Kenny Wood. Becky often called Steve "Mr. Fix It" because she was sure he probably fixed something every day for her.

He is survived by his loving wife Becky; his son Jeff and Angela and their children Micah, Maddie, and Morgan in Columbia, MO; son Keith and Britt and their children Emma and Finn in Corvallis, OR; sister Helen Haltiwanger and her sons Richard, Mike and Kenneth; nephews Bill (Kim) King; O'Neal King; Corey Ussery and niece Diana Bosman and their many children and grandchildren. There is also a host of in-laws from all over the world: Poway CA, Arnold MO, Tulsa OK, Baton Rouge LA, Sun City AZ, Creal IL, St. Louis MO, Memphis TN, and even Thailand! These are "The Whitlocks" who came to know and love Hume over the years through our 4th of July Reunions.

Funeral services were held July 22, 2026 at Hume Christian Church in Street, Hume, MO 64752. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donating your time or monetary support to the Hume Food Pantry. Steve loved this local collection of churches and people that come together to support the people of Hume. Donations can be sent to Hume Alliance Ministry, PO Box 404, Hume, MO.

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Obituary - Tonya Anderson-Coward

Tonya Renee Anderson-Coward, 42 of Newburg, MO, passed away Sunday, August 16, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Celebration of Life services will be held at a later date, and arrangements are under the care and direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.

Tonya is survived by her husband: Bryan Coward of the home; children: Trysta Briley (Mikael) of Waynesville, MO, Terence Brown of Waynesville, MO, Anthony Coward of Paris, MO, Dyllan Coward of Paris, MO, and Justice Rogers-Coward of Lebanon, MO; father: Kurt Massey of Devil’s Elbow, MO; siblings: Samantha Davila Perez (Yomar) of Waynesville, MO, Brad Anderson of Springfield, MO, Ami Roach of Lebanon, MO, Marinda Lee of West Plains, MO, Pamela Talley of Butler, MO, and Dakota Brown of Crocker, MO; special caregiver: Tonya’s Aunt Roxie Coleman; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Tonya Anderson-Coward and may be left at Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.A


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