Obituary - Gary Ray Herstein

Gary Ray Herstein, 76, Nevada, MO, passed away on Monday, October 20, 2026, at Moore-Few Care Center in Nevada following a lengthy illness. Gary was born December 29, 2026, in Nevada to Norman Paul and Dorothy Helen (Moore) Herstein. He married Mary Frances Klein on May 18, 1991, in Nevada and she survives of the home.

Gary was raised in Nevada and graduated from Nevada High School in 1968. After high school, he attended Missouri Southern State College in Joplin. Gary worked with his father welding pipelines for several years before beginning a long career in law enforcement. He joined the Nevada Police Department in 1974. Through the years he rose through the ranks and served as Chief of Police from November 2003 until July 2006. Afterward, he continued working as a Public Safety Director until retiring in May 2010. Gary was a member of the Nevada Elks Lodge. He was a ham radio operator, enjoyed golfing, was known as a good cook, and was a loving, devoted uncle adored by his nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife Mary, he is survived by a brother, Ron Herstein (Judy) Nevada; one sister, Robin Fisher (Gene), Lee’s Summit, MO; a brother-in-law, Bob Klein, Dubuque, IA; an uncle and aunt, Larry Moore and his wife Marilyn, Springfield; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a nephew, Paul Alexander Fisher, and an aunt, Ruby Folkner.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Moore Cemetery in Nevada with Carol Branham officiating. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m. on Monday evening at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

Memorials are suggested in his name to Nevada Regional Medical Center Auxiliary c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

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Obituary -Karen Lucile (Crosslin) Robinson

Karen Lucile (Crosslin) Robinson, 87, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on October 18, 2026, at Brookdale – Rosehill Senior Living Community in Shawnee, Kansas. A visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Country Club Christian Church, 6101 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64113. Memorial services will follow at 11:00 am Tuesday, also at the Church. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 pm Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Sharon Cemetery, Drexel, Missouri. Services under the direction of Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel (816-657-4400). Memorial contributions are suggested to Country Club Christian Church - Outreach, 6101 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64113 or the Cameron Development Center, PO Box 81, Cameron, MO 64429. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

Karen was born July 23, 1939, the only child of Sophia A. (Mothersbaugh) and Raymond T. Crosslin.

She grew up in Sedalia, MO, and attended Washington Elementary School and graduated from Smith-Cotton High School in 1956. She was involved in orchestra, debate and forensics, and Jobs Daughters. Her first job was dipping ice cream at Tullis Hall Dairy in Sedalia, and she always enjoyed attending the state fair.

After graduating from Smith Cotton High School, she enrolled in Central Missouri State at Warrensburg, MO. She joined Delta Zeta sorority, studied hard, enjoyed school, and met Robert Robinson. They were married in 1959.

Karen and Robbie, transferred to the University of Missouri – Columbia where they both graduated. Karen received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in Speech.

Karen followed Robbie to Cameron, MO, for his first professional job with the Department of Health. They were active in the Cameron’s Jaycees and were integral in building Cameron’s first public library.

Karen founded a school for disabled children at the First Christian Church in Cameron. The school evolved into the Cameron Development Center. Karen received recognition from the Center in 2000 for her early vision and compassion. Karen had written that the school was one of her most treasured accomplishments.

Karen, Robbie and family relocated to Jefferson City, MO, in 1968 where they raised their children for 22 years. Karen was instrumental in launching Jefferson City’s first Head Start program, where she led the program for several years.

Karen started a pre-school at the First Christian Church in Jefferson City in conjunction with the local YMCA, originally called Y-Tots. Two of Karen’s grandchildren later attended the pre-school.

Karen loved her family and showed them the value of honesty and hard work. She actively supported the children’s interests in sports, Scouts, and church youth groups as a leader, volunteer, and car-pool organizer.

Karen faithfully loved Robbie and supported his career and interests for 63 years. They had the opportunity to travel to many places including Hawaii, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. Karen especially enjoyed their vacations in Barbados with family and friends.

Karen and Robbie supported the Micah Ministry in Kansas City, helping distribute clothing and necessities for over 15 years.

Karen enjoyed living at Kingswood where she had many friends and participated in many activities including playing cards and the book club. Karen’s last act of charity was in August 2026, leading a school supplies drive at Kingswood for the Academy of Integrated Arts, a charter school in Kansas City.




Karen was preceded in death by Robbie and her parents. She is survived by her children, Dawn Dolliver (Matt), Lance Robinson (Becky), and Cory Robinson; grandchildren, Aubrie White (Brandon), Andrew Dolliver (Hannah), Bari Robinson, and Spencer Robinson. She also leaves behind six great-grandchildren, Caleb, Quinn Anne, Daniel and Hallie White, James Michael and Piper Dolliver, and his sister Martha Hunt (Harland).




Please celebrate a Life well Lived!

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Obituary - Charles Anthony Engeman Sr

Full obituary coming soon.

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Obituary - Carlton Marble Jr

Carlton Marble Jr. age 90 of Harrisonville, Missouri departed this life Monday, October 19, 2026 at Research Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri. 

Cremation with a Celebration of life service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 29, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

Visitation will be held 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 29, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

In lieu of flower, memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project. Donations can be made through the link or mailed to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701.

A complete obituary will be posted once that information becomes available. 

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Obituary - William "Bill" Keener

A graveside service with military honors for William "Bill" Keener of Butler, Missouri will be 2 p.m. Sunday, October 25, 2026 at the Hume Cemetery in Hume, Missouri. No visitation. Arrangements are under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler. Contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association or Heartland Hospice. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

William Jesse “Bill” Keener, was born on June 17, 1943 at 711 West Walnut in Rich Hill, Missouri. He was the only child born to Jesse Alfred and Esther Rose Ruby Keener. Bill met a beautiful, smart and wonderful young lady Doris Garrett from Nevada, Missouri. He married Doris on September 16, 1961 and to this union they were blessed with two daughters, Sheri Kay and Sheila Dawn.

Bill was drafted in 1966 and while he was stationed at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas, served his country as a supply clerk. Upon returning home to civilian life in Rich Hill, he went to work driving semi-trucks and was a truck driver for over thirty years. Bill drove for Coronet and hauled groceries for A&P and Fleming Foods. He retired in 1999 from Transervice Logistics.

Bill loved retirement and did his best to keep Doris on her toes by frequenting auctions and buying all the “good stuff”–even if he needed it or not. His Antique Aladdin collection was his pride and joy and cherished it above anything else in his life. Bill loved going to the Rich Hill July 4th celebration every year. He enjoyed tracking people down, cornering anyone and talking or just catching up with them. Bill loved country music and he frequently took Doris to Branson to watch the shows, especially the Baldknobbers.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his loving wife Doris. He leaves behind his “treasures and good stuff” which his daughters now have the task of dispersing–as we all know you can’t take it with you; his two daughters Sheri Henderson and husband Randy and Sheila Smalley and husband Terry; grandchildren, Jesse Elmer and husband Hayden, Michael Keener, Turner Henderson, Levi Smalley, Sarah Raybourn and husband Harrison, Jonathon Smalley and wife Kaitlyn; great-grandchildren, Everleigh Doreen Elmer, Peyton, Hadley, and Jameson Raybourn, Sadie and Grace Smalley, Derrick, and Gavin Elmer.

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Obituary - Donnie Joe Crusha

Donnie Joe Crusha, age 56, passed away peacefully at his home on October 14, 2026, leaving behind a profound legacy of service, dedication, and deep love for his family. Born on January 18, 1970, Donnie was the cherished son of the late Willie "Bill" and Eileen Crusha.

Donnie grew up in a bustling household as the proud oldest of six siblings: Wayne, Shawn, Gary, Kathy, and Amy. He attended school in Appleton City, Missouri, graduating with the Class of 1988. Following high school, Donnie answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Army. Over a distinguished 17-year military career, he served three tours of duty and earned multiple commendations for his bravery and leadership, including the prestigious Bronze Star.

On September 23, 2010, Donnie married the love of his life, Angela, in Appleton City. Together, they shared 16 wonderful years of marriage. The couple later moved to Oklahoma, where they built a beautiful life filled with lasting, fond memories.

Donnie brought that same military work ethic to his civilian career, spending 15 years with Lugreg Trucking. He started out driving on the road and earned his way up to Yard Manager at the Marshall field. Known as a man who simply did whatever it took to get the job done. Donnie seamlessly wore many hats over the years-working as a truck pusher, salesman, driver, and dispatcher.

To know Donnie was to love him. He was a beloved friend to everyone he met and a foundational pillar for his family. He excelled at being a loving husband, father, uncle, and a doting grandfather ("Papa").

Donnie is survived by his beloved wife, Angela Crusha; his three children, Anthony (Jessica) Crusha, Willie(Jael) Crusha, and Aleshia (Anthony "Tony") Bunch; and his six treasured grandchildren, Sawyer, Maevis, Hazel, Louie, and Ophelia Crusha, and Addison and Evalynn Bunch. He also leaves behind all his brothers, sisters, and their spouses, alongside a large, loving network of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss his strength and warmth dearly.

Visitation for Donnie will be on Sunday, October 18, 2026 at Sanders Funeral Service Chapel from 1:30 pm-6:00 pm.

Funeral services were held October 19, 2026, at Sanders Funeral Service Chapel with burial at Appleton City Cemetery in Appleton City, Missouri, under the direction of Sanders Funeral Service.

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Obituary - Sonja Lee McLanahan

Sonja Lee McLanahan, 65, of Archie, Missouri, passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, October 18, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, https://American Cancer Society/.

Sonja was born on November 20, 1960, to James P. Willoughby and Freda (Anderson) Willoughby in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. On February 14, 1982, Sonja married the love of her life, Michael McLanahan. They shared 44 years of marriage, building a life centered around family and love.

Sonja spent her life helping others through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program and Pathways Community Behavioral Healthcare. She later retired from Cass Regional Medical Center, where she worked as an Emergency Room admitting clerk.

She loved her family and friends and cherished spending days with her mom. Together, they loved watching game shows, Hallmark movies, and the Chiefs play football. Sonja was loved by many and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Sonja is preceded in death by her father, James P. Willoughby; her brother, Paul "Butch" Willoughby; her granddaughter, Evalynn Thiele; and her grandparents, aunts, and uncles. She is survived by her husband, Michael McLanahan; her mother, Freda Willoughby; her brother, James Willoughby; her daughters: Tousha Dillon (Chris) and Trisha Thiele (Louis); her son, Travis McLanahan (Kayla); her grandchildren: Zane (Shelby), Emma, Dakota (Brittany), Mason, Kolten, Lyle, Adalee, Aiden, Keagen, and Gracie; and her two great-grandchildren, Axel and Creed. She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends who will cherish her memory.

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Obituary - Joseph "Joe" Mitchell Shaffer

Joseph "Joe" Mitchell Shaffer, aged 80, of Harrisonville, Missouri, will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Joe peacefully departed from this world on October 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO, with graveside services immediately following at approximately 11:45 AM at Oak Hill Cemetery in Butler, MO. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the family.

Born on May 9, 1946, in Appleton City, MO, Joe was the son of Albert Arthur and Ruth Lorena (Foster) Shaffer. He devoted many years to his work as an automotive technician, first at Young's Firestone Tires and later at Family Center, where his technical expertise and warm demeanor earned him the affection of colleagues and customers alike.

Joe married the love of his life, Ruth Carolyn Fry, on March 29, 1968, and together they created a home filled with love for their six children. He was a devoted father who cherished the moments spent taking his children fishing and sharing stories during deer hunting trips.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents; his daughters: Ruth C. Shaffer, Angela Kay Shaffer, and Rhonda Lynn Shaffer; his son, Terry Shaffer; his granddaughter, Kiya Renai Shaffer; and 7 siblings. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Shaffer; his son, Joseph Jay (Cammie) Shaffer; his daughter, Lori Shaffer; his four grandchildren: Corey Pastorino, Blake (Kailey) Shaffer, Maranda Shaffer, and Ashelyn Shaffer; his two great-grandchildren: Bellamy Prim and Merritt Brookes; his brother, Dean (Sue) Shaffer; his sister, Phyllis Smith; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

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Obituary - David Turner

 

David William Turner, 89, of Walker, MO, passed away on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Medicalodges of Nevada.   David was born on November 20, 1936, in Iola, KS to Lloyd and Ruth (Masdon) Turner. 

    David grew up in Ft. Scott, KS.  He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1954-1977, during which he did five tours of duty in Vietnam, three tours in Korea, and was involved in the occupation of Japan.   Following his retirement, he spent over 30 years in Blythe, CA.   He has resided in Walker, MO since 2013.

     David was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

     David is survived by his daughters, B. J. Alcazar, Amarillo, TX and Cherri Burlingame (Brian), Nevada, MO; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; several brothers and sisters; and two wives, Elaine and Elizabeth.

     Interment with military honors will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, in the National Cemetery, Fort Scott, Kansas, with Scotty Pritchett officiating.  Services are under the direction of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada, MO.

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Obituary - Ellen Kathryn Talley

 

Ellen Kathryn Talley, 95, of Nevada, MO, passed away on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Moore-Few Care Center.   Kathryn was born on August 13, 1931, in Aurora, MO to Herman and Ella (Sullivan) Carl.  She married Norman Talley in Aurora, MO on April 1, 1950.  He preceded her in death in 2023.

    Kathryn was raised on a farm near Crane, MO.   She graduated from Crane High School in 1949.  In 1962, she and Norman moved to Nevada, MO from Arkansas where he worked for the railroad.  Primarily a homemaker and after raising her family, she worked for Nelly Don/Junior House, retiring when they closed.   She was a longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church.

    Kathryn is survived by her children, Aletta Borders (Jim), and Dennis Talley (Della), all of Nevada, MO; eight grandchildren, Andrea Pyle (Jonathan), Randy Borders (Katrina), Tyler Borders (Jill), Scott Borders (Kristy), Kyle Talley, Ryan Talley (Kellie), Seth Talley, and Rachelle Renwick (Ryan); thirty great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and numerous nieces and nephews.   She was preceded in death by her husband, Norman; three sisters; and four brothers.

    Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church, Nevada, with Pastor Terry Mosher officiating.  Interment in Moore Cemetery will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Calvary Baptist Church are suggested and can be made in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

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Obituary - Terry James Highley

Terry James Highley 82, was born in 1944 to William James and Uva Mae (Dade) Highley at Butler, MO.

Terry attended several rural schools in Bates and Cass Counties as his parents moved for jobs. He graduated eighth grade at Hickory Grove School, rural Archie, MO., Attended Archie High School graduating in 1962.

He worked at Limpus Quarry for a short time. Farmed with his dad, and summer hay jobs. Got married to Lela Gilmore of East Lynne at Gunn City, MO. on 4-5, 1964, Then he started working at Anaconda Wire and Cable in Harrisonville, MO. in January of 1965, because of a baby was on the way, needed insurance. Anaconda closed after 23 years. He took a part-time job at Archie, MO. with no insurance, wife nagged him to get a better job. He then applied at Sioux Chief at Peculiar, MO. He worked as a Machinist for 15 years. As he got closer to retirement he cut down to 4 days a week then 3 days, he really didn’t want to work out, just farm. He raised hogs and had cattle.

In 1965 Ronald James was born. In 1969, Melanie DeAnn was added to the family. Our family was complete for 15 years until Randy Lee surprised them in 1979.

Terry was a prankster and liked to play jokes on everyone. Sometimes if people didn’t know him, very well the jokes backfired.

Terry liked to horseshoe pitch; bowl; golf once in a while. He attended two World Horseshoe tournaments. For our 50th Anniversary in 2014. Ron; Victoria and little Warren took us in (our truck and camper) to New York. Ron paid Terry entry fee to pitch, my gift was to see Niagara Falls and get drenched with the rest with very COLD water. At the World Tournaments in 2015 in Topeka, Kansas, 4 generations of his family pitched, Terry; Ron, Granddaughter Paige and great grandson Warren.

Several summers were spend in Colorado high country trails with friends and almost relatives on 4-wheelers. Terry guessed we did about 600 miles there over the years. Terry was baptized on 31st of August of 2010 in very cold pool of water on a mountain top, get this, called Lost Canyon, by Pastor Larry Hess of Everett Church. God thought it was about time for this. He lit the sky up with beautiful blue and pick colors, tried to capture a picture, but this was between him and God.

Terry leaves behind his wife, Lela of 62 years; son Ron; daughter Melanie. Losing Randy Lee in 2022. Also, three Daughters-in-law Victoria; Lindsey and Cari. One Son-in-law Stacy Troby. 5 granddaughters, 4 grandsons; 4 great-grandsons and 7 great-granddaughters.

Terry’s greatest fun was making trouble, not forgotten!!

A celebration of Life will be held 5:00 p.m. Saturday, October 17, 2026 at Lake Agnes, 307 Highway, Harrisonville, MO 64701. Signs will be posted at the lake for directions. The family suggests to bring a lawn chair, a side dish, Iced tea, and bottles of water no alcohol. If it is raining or too muddy the celebration of life will be held at Everett Church, Archie, MO.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Western Missouri Antique Tractors & Machinery Association and send in care to P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701. 

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Obituary - Bill Isenhower

Bill Isenhower, 93, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2026.

When he was 12 or 13 years old, his family moved to Louisburg, Kansas, to the Kay Ranch, where they lived and worked together. The values of hard work, perseverance, and community that he learned there would guide him throughout his life.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Verbal Isenhower; his brother, Herbert Isenhower; and his beloved wife, Marlene Isenhower. He is survived by his loving daughter, Marla (Dedrick) Anderson; his sisters, Shirley Picek, Sue Knecht, and Betty Zeigler (Dennis); and many extended family members, dear friends, and loved ones.

Bill lived a life defined by hard work, service, and connection with others. Over the years, he farmed, raised horses, worked as an auctioneer, sold real estate, and retired from Delco. He and Marlene enjoyed years of traveling the country in their RV. Bill always remained active, continuing to sell RVs right up until the end. He was also a lifelong musician who found great joy in sharing music with those around him.

In June 1955, Bill married Marlene. Together they built a life anchored in faith, family, and commitment, sharing 60 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2015. To know Bill was to know someone who never met a stranger. He seemed to know people everywhere he went, and everywhere he went, people knew him. His warm smile, easy conversation, and genuine interest in others made lasting impressions and lifelong friendships. He was deeply loved by his family and touched countless lives through his work(s), his music, and his kindness.

Above all, Bill was an amazing father to his daughter, Marla. He was a source of unwavering love, encouragement, wisdom, and support throughout her life. The bond they shared was one of his greatest blessings and one of the treasures he leaves behind. Bill's legacy lives on through the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, musical talent, and the genuine care he showed to everyone he met.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at the Hillsdale Cemetery. Celebration of life and lunch will follow at the Hillsdale Presbyterian Church. 

Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate a life well lived. Bill will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

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Obituary - Laurel Lee Brownback Elliott

Laurel Lee Brownback Elliott, age 83, Parker, Kansas passed away Sunday, October 11, 2026.  She was born on August 9, 1943 in rural Centerville, Kansas the daughter of Clyde and Shirley Drake Brownback.  She attended grade school at Round Mound and Centerville.  She graduated from Parker Rural High School. Laurel worked for Hallmark for thirty-five years before retiring as a materials receiving inspector.  Laurel was united in marriage to Harry "Bo" Elliott on October 6, 1982.  He preceded her in death September 8, 1994.  She was a member of the Overland Park Christian Church when she lived in the metro.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Marion and Burton Brownback, a sister, Lorene Jackson, and a grandson, Bo Michael Rapoff.  Laurel is survived by a daughter, Lori Jenks and husband Buddy, a stepson, Troy Elliott and wife Suzanne, two stepdaughters, Tracy Weber and husband Peter, and Holly Doran, a sister, Marylou Kinder and husband Larry, two grandchildren, Harrison "Sonny" Rapoff and Elliott Catherine Rapoff, six step grandchildren, and several great grandchildren.    

Funeral service will be 10 am Friday, October 16, 2026 at the Centerville Community Church.  Burial will be 2:15 pm Friday in the Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, Kansas.  Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.  

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Obituary - Mark Eric Smothers

Mark Eric Smothers was born on August 4, 1960. He already had a 3 year old sister April Lynn. We lived in a small rented house on the outskirts of the city, but had a large yard and a wooded hillside to play in. From the very beginning, he liked mechanical things- and would "work" on his tricycle.

He always wanted to help out with everything, his favorite clothes was his Superman T-shirt with a cape I fixed for him. Then he got a baby brother David. He was proud when he could make him toys and watch over him.

When in high school he took guitar lessons, then he attended Central Missouri state University., where he earned his bachelor degree in electricity, electronics, plus taking post grad courses in TV production, stage and stage lighting, and was in the men's chorus. He receieved Straight A's in it all. Mark always helped his grandfather on the cattle farm, etc., through it all.

He was working at a marble factory over one summer- and later took a course in KC for recording, and bought a recorder.

Then he got cancer (we know now that the marble factory was the cause). After a long battle, he was finally in remission, and immediately felt called to write inspirational type music. However, not the ussual type church music. He wanted to inspire non religious people to see the truth. He wrote "Spring Forth" from words he said was inspired directly from God. He believed in the inspiration, since he just sat down and started playing it and singing it all of a sudden from beginning to end in one take.

He established his own label and got copyrights for everything. Since the music industry was in a state of change, he went from casettes to CD's, and no one wanted serious music anymore, it's only gotten worse since. Then Mark gave up on the music business, but was needed at home, his dad was in ill health since he had been hit by a car, and David and I were running his landscape business.

One year after his dad died, he was taking over more things here, when he had a heart attack. His heart stopped 3 times- they put in two stents, and he lay on total like support for 9 days. When they tried to take him off, it didn't work and had to put him back on. But after a long recovery and 2 rehab sessions, he was OK, working hard here at home, raising and preserving our own food. With the farm rented down home, had been getting along fine until now.

When fishing with his best friend, his heart just quit. He had always said "I just want to be two old guys fishing in a boat and keel over, that's the way to go". He did, just too soon.

Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 pm, Friday, October 16th at the Heuser Funeral Home.  Burial will be at the Green Lawn Cemetery.

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Obituary - Laurel Lee Elliott

Laurel Lee Elliott, age 83, Parker, Kansas passed away Sunday, October 11, 2026.  

Funeral service will be 10 am Friday, October 16, 2026 at the Centerville Community Church.  Burial will be in the Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, Kansas.  Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.  

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Obituary - Florine O'Rourke

Florine O'Rourke

Sep 2, 1924 — Oct 11, 2026

Lawrence, Kansas

Florine was born September 9, 1924 on a small farm outside Prescott, Kansas, the youngest of six children, to A.E and Florence Holmes. As spoiled as one could possibly be during the Great Depression, she still managed to keep a fairly level head as she made her way to adulthood. During a brief stint as clerk at the Linn County courthouse, she met and married Harold O’Rourke and the couple began life together in the home of her Aunt in Mound City, Kansas. After the birth of their first son, Dennis, the couple relocated to Pleasanton, Kansas where Harold worked several jobs and Florine took in sewing. Since Dennis seemed to be turning out reasonably well, the couple decided to toss the dice and have another child, Randal. Results are still pending on the outcome of this particular gamble. While attempting to civilize the couple’s two sons, Florine continued to make clothes for people around town and began babysitting for friends and extended family. Somehow, this still left time for coffee and phone conversations with close friends. Listening in on the rare occasions work didn’t keep him out of the house, Harold was astonished that there were enough words in the language to keep the chats going. Both before and after Harold’s death she worked at the Prescott Nursing Home, then at the Labette Bank. On retirement from the bank, Florine found a second home, and countless new friends, working as a seasonal employee behind the front desk of Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel in Yellowstone National Park for the next 25 years. She became known as the Yellowstone Grandma, annually “adopting” several new “children” and “grand children” from among her new, younger colleagues who came to work summers in thepark. Many of these stayed in close contact with Florine for decades. Following her second career in Yellowstone, conversation almost always, eventually, returned to her time and friends in Wyoming, Montana, and beyond. Moving to Meadowlark Estates in Lawrence, Kansas in her mid-90’s came easier to her than she, or any of us, had anticipated. At Meadowlark she found more dear friends than she thought were possibly left in the world that could be hers to enjoy. She also became known as the Bear Lady in honor of the hundreds of Teddy Bears she made for donation to agencies aiding children in need. Always reluctant to leave a party that was still going strong, Florine finally departed on October 11, 2026 at age 102. Florine was preceded in death by her parents, all five siblings and her husband, Harold O'Rourke. She is survived by sons, Dennis (Tamia) and Randal (Iris), 5 grandchildren; Andrew (Michelle) O’Rourke, Sean (Stacy) O’Rourke, Jamie O’Rourke, Kelly (Mark) Grabendike, Darcy (Tyler) Huismann, 9 Great Grandchildren, 3 Great-Great grandchildren, and multiple nieces and nephews whom she thoroughly enjoyed.

Visitation will be at 10am on Saturday, October17 at Schneider Funeral Home in Pleasanton, followed by services in the Schneider Chapel at 11:00am.  Interment will follow in Pleasanton Cemetery, Pleasanton, Kansas.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to The United Methodist Church of Pleasanton, The American Heart Association, Harvesters, or your favorite charity.

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Obituary - Mitsuko Knight

Mitsuko Knight

March 11, 1930 - October 6, 2026

To understand the depth of Mitzi’s spirit, we have to look back to where her story began. She was born on March 11, 1930, in Hokkaido, Japan to Mitsugi and Yone Kanno —the third of eight children. Growing up in a place known for its harsh, snowy winters but also its breathtaking, resilient beauty, it was there that she grew into the strong woman we all knew.

In 1953, she married Herman Conley Knight, known affectionately to everyone as Con, an Army Master Sergeant serving in the Korean War. Choosing love meant choosing a path into the unknown and a year later, she stepped off a ship and landed in this country. Imagine the immense bravery it took for a young woman from Hokkaido to cross an ocean, leaving behind her language, her family, and her culture to build a brand-new life from scratch. She arrived with little more than her love for Con and the radiant spirit inside her. Together, they welcomed two beautiful children who became her entire world: Linda Joyce and Richard Duane, whom we all know as Duane. After traveling across the country with the Army, Con retired in 1964 and they settled in Rich Hill Missouri to be near Con’s mother, Pearl Bland.

But life brings unexpected storms. Just two years after making Rich Hill their home, tragedy struck. On March 26, 1966, Con passed away in a car accident. Suddenly, Mitzi found herself a young widow in a foreign country, raising two young children on her own.

There is a famous Japanese proverb that Mitzi absolutely loved and lived by: “Fall down seven times, stand up eight” (Nanakorobi Yaoki). Life had just knocked her down in the most painful way possible, but true to that saying, Mitzi got right back up. She did not break. Her birth name, Mitsuko, means 'Child of Light'—and she chose to shine brighter.

To support her family, she worked at Key Industries in Nevada and after her retirement, Unique Optical Case Company in Rich Hill.

Life blessed Mitzi with a beautiful second act when she met her longtime partner and the true love of her life, Warren Wheatley. Sadly, she faced the heavy heartbreak of losing Warren unexpectedly in 1996. Life knocked her down once more, and once more she stood back up. The love they built stayed with her always, a cherished and permanent part of her life.

Through every triumph and every heartache, Mitzi's greatest joy remained the family that blossomed around her.

She was an absolutely amazing grandma. She was the definition of an active, adventurous spirit. She wasn't the kind of grandma to just sit on the sidelines and watch. If her grandkids were outside, so was she. Even as the years passed, you could find her jumping rope, swinging on the swings, and going right down the slides alongside them. She possessed a rare, youthful magic that made every single child feel completely cherished, eventually becoming the proud matriarch to 8 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Her house was home base for many 4th of July family reunions.

Mitzi has many friends, was active in the community, and truly knew how to live life to the fullest. She loved gardening and was incredibly skilled at it; she could take a clipping from absolutely anywhere and successfully propagate it into a thriving, beautiful plant. Her legacy blooms all across this town, rooted in her time as a founding member of the Rich Hill Garden Club, known today as Ready, Set, Grow.

She was a cherished regular at Dirty Bingo at the Kern Center, bringing laughter wherever she went. She was a massive Kansas City Royals and Chiefs fan, always ready to cheer on her teams. At home, she loved her puzzles and always had one laid out, meticulously putting the pieces together. And back in the mid 1970s to 1980s, she was even a certified pool shark, proudly winning many trophies at the table.

Beyond her endless talents, Mitzi was a total fashionista. She turned heads wherever she went, always looking sharp, polished, and effortlessly cool. She had a unique, unforgettable sense of style, and one of her legendary signature looks included leather pants paired with high heel boots, beautiful jewelry, and perfectly painted nails. She carried herself with an unmistakable confidence and flair.

She has been described by many as sweet, but she was also quick-witted and famously, wonderfully ornery. She had a spark that couldn't be dimmed and she genuinely loved everyone she met and everyone loved her right back.

The courage she showed to cross an ocean, the devotion she showed to protect her children and care for her family, the immense love she shared with Warren, and the joyful, vibrant spirit she gave to Rich Hill laid the foundation for the beautiful family standing here today. We are her legacy. She proved to all of us that no matter how many times life knocks you down, you always find the strength to stand up again. The light she brought across the ocean, and kept burning through every storm, every hard day at work, every garden bloom, and every playground laugh, will never go out.

Proceeded in death by her parents, Mitsugi and Yone Kanno, 4 brothers and 3 sisters, Husband Herman Conley Knight, partner Warren Wheatley, step-grandson Scott Moody and grandson Macauly Crane.

She is survived by her children Linda Crane (Brett) and Duane Knight (Jools), stepchildren Kenneth Knight, Sharon Gilmore, Janet Richter, 11 step-grandchildren, 7 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions to Kern Center and Ready, Set Grow in Rich Hill, Missouri.

Visitation: Friday, October 15, 2026 5pm-7pm

Funeral Service: Saturday, October 16, 2026 11:00-12:00pm

Private Internment: Green Lawn Cemetery Rich Hill, Missouri 

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Obituary - Shirley Herman

Shirley Herman, 83, of Urich, Missouri, passed away on October 10,2026, at her home in Urich, Missouri. Arrangements have been entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home, in Clinton, Missouri and are pending at this time.


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