Obituary - Michael Beeman

Michael Richard Beeman, 72, Nevada, MO passed from this life on March 16, 2026, at Moore-Few Nursing Home in Nevada. Mike was born May 8, 1953, in Nevada, MO to R. Norman and Betty (Craig) Beeman. He was united in marriage to Susan Beeman on March 8, 1982 and she survives of the home.

Mike grew up in Nevada, graduating from Nevada High School in 1971. After graduation Mike went to work for the Railroad as well as raising pigs with his father. In 1985 Mike started work at 3M, retiring in 2013. Shortly after his retirement he decided to take up baking and smoking meat for several friends and fellow co-workers. His rolls, cheesecakes, sourdough bread and healthy muffins were some of his specialties. He also did an excellent job smoking pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and tri-tips. He started doing some catering and enjoyed that up until last year when his health wouldn’t allow him to continue.

Mike is survived by his wife, Susan, two sons, Jeremy Ogle and wife Tara of Baroda, MI and Joseph Beeman, Chicago, IL; four grandchildren, Addie, Luke, Taylor, and Eli; one sister, Claudia Martindale and husband Rick, Spring Branch, TX; and several nieces and nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Craig Beeman and sister-in-law, Jan Beeman.

Following cremation, a committal service of Mike’s ashes will be held in the Courtyard at All Saint’s Episcopal Church on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with Father Jim Lile officiating.

For those who wish to contribute memorials are suggested in Mike’s memory to All Saint’s Episcopal Church c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

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Obituary - Elaine Boden

Elaine Devina (Buller) Boden departed this life peacefully at the Appleton City Manor Nursing Home on March 15, 2026 at 81 years of age.  She was the daughter of Elam and Ethel (Owens) Buller, born June 19, 1944 in Kansas City, Missouri.  Her family moved to Milo, Missouri in 1954.  Elaine met Harold M. Boden at the roller rink in Appleton City, and their life together began on May 8, 1965.  They resided on the family farm near Montrose, Missouri.  They were blessed with four children.

        Elaine was a woman whose life was defined by love, faith, and quiet strength. A devoted woman of God, she lived her life as a reflection of her beliefs - loving deeply, serving others, and welcoming everyone she met. She truly never knew a stranger, offering kindness, conversation, and a warm smile to anyone lucky enough to cross her path.

        Elaine was a proud farmer’s wife who embraced the hard work and simple beauty of farm life. Whether she was helping tend to the pigs or making sure everyone who walked through her door had a hearty, home cooked meal, she showed her love through service. No one ever left her table hungry, and the care she put into feeding her family was just one of the many ways she nurtured those around her.

        She was a proud and devoted mother, and later an even prouder grandmother. Her grandchildren were truly the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them. Her love for her family was constant, steady, and unconditional. 

        Elaine was an incredible cook, known for meals that brought people together, but she was especially admired for her extraordinary talent as an embroiderer. Her work was nothing short of remarkable, with each piece reflecting her patience, creativity, and attention to detail. Many in the community cherish the beautiful pieces she created, which now serve as lasting reminders of her gifted hands and loving heart.

        Her faith remained central throughout her life as a dedicated member of the Catholic church and Altar Sodality. After moving into town following many years on the farm, Elaine found new joy in quilting and building connections within her community. She especially loved spending time with school children, whose hugs and smiles brought her endless happiness. She found such simple but profound joy in their laughter and affection. 

        Elaine found so much joy in the simple things. One of her favorite simple joys was going for rides in her golf cart with her dear neighbor and friend, Jackie. Those rides were filled with laughter, conversation, and the kind of friendship that meant so much to her. She truly treasured that time and the special bond they shared.

        Above all, Elaine will be remembered for how she made people feel - loved, welcomed, and cared for. Her legacy is one of faith, family, hard work, and a heart big enough to hold everyone she met.

        Elaine was preceded in death by her parents Elam and Ethel Buller; her husband Harold; one infant son David Boden; three siblings: James Buller, David Buller and Jane Stewart.

 

MEMORIALS to St. Mary's School

        Survivors include her three children Wayne (Susan) Boden, Michelle (Norman) Bellinghausen and Edward (Jennifer) Boden; her grandchildren: Hannah (Logan) Enderle, Harrison Boden, Zach Lane, Andrew (Amber) Bellinghausen, and Kristin (Dalton) Lindsay; her siblings: Robert (Barbara) Buller, Marvin Buller, and Rodney (Jennifer) Buller; two great-grandchildren, Declan Bellinghausen and Ashton Lindsay.

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Obituary - Nancy Ann Connaughton

Nancy Ann Connaughton, age 74, of Garden City, Missouri, departed this life on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Sparkling Fountain of Love Adult Care in Overland Park, Kansas.

Nancy was born to Fredrick Thomas Herring and Ethel Marie Herring, who preceded her in death, along with her brother, Robert Herring. She was united in marriage to her loving husband, Philip James Connaughton, on June 28, 1975, in Bonner Springs, Kansas. Together, they built a life centered around love, family, and lasting memories.

Nancy dedicated 20 years of her life working at Peterson Manufacturing, where she was known for her strong work ethic and friendly spirit. Above all, she cherished her family. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren, who held a very special place in her heart.

She had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed camping, fishing, and being in nature. Whether it was a weekend camping trip or a peaceful day by the water, Nancy found happiness in the simple moments.

She is survived by her husband, Philip James Connaughton of the home; her daughter, Jamie Norris and husband Aaron of Raymore, Missouri; her two granddaughters, Allison and Madison; and her brother, Tom Herring.

Nancy will be remembered for her kind heart, her love for her family, and the warmth she shared with everyone around her. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Cremation with a celebration of life visitation will be held 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Donations can be made through the link or mailed to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701.

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Obituary - Larry Ford

Larry Eugene Ford, 82, of Independence, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on March 15, 2026.

Larry was born on June 8, 1943, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Douglas and Mildred Ford. He spent his life in the Kansas City area, where he was known for his strong work ethic, his devotion to his family, and his deep faith.

Larry worked for many years as a truck driver and retired from Penske after a long and dedicated career. He took pride in providing for his family and the life he built through hard work.

Larry loved the Lord and attended church regularly. His faith guided the way he lived his life and how he treated others—with kindness, generosity, and a willingness to help anyone in need.

He was married to the love of his life, Wanda Ford, for 49 wonderful years. Family meant everything to Larry. He cherished his children and loved spending time with his several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Larry had a passion for fishing, gardening, and working in his yard. He was especially proud of his garden and took it very seriously, even winning a “Biggest Tomato” contest one year. He was known for his sense of humor, his kind heart, and his readiness to lend a hand to anyone who needed it.

Larry was able to live out the final years of his life in the comfort of his own home thanks to the loving care of his daughter, Carrie Martin, who moved in with him and became his full-time caregiver. Her devotion allowed him to remain where he was happiest.

He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Wanda Ford; his daughters, Carrie Martin, Lori Martin, and Tammy Williams; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas Ford and Mildred Moore; and his siblings, Loretta Sue Carmack, Charles D. Ford, Carolyn Heldenbrand, Michael Wayne Ford, and Helen Shewelling; and his daughter Donna Doyal.

Larry will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose kindness, humor, and faith touched the lives of many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Cremation with a Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

Visitation will be held 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

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

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Obituary - Donald Bathgate

Donald Lee Bathgate age 96 of Garden City, Missouri departed this life Friday, March 13, 2026 at SageGrove at Raymore, Raymore, Missouri surrounded by love and family. 

Cremation with a celebration of life visitation will be held 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Garden City Community Building, Garden City, Missouri with inurnment at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Higginsville, Missouri at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association. 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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Warming up and drying out

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Bates County Memorial Hospital Names Kelly Otter Employee of the Month for March

Bates County Memorial Hospital is proud to recognize Kelly Otter, RN, Nursing Supervisor, as its March Employee of the Month

Kelly serves as a leader for the Med/Surg unit, where her clinical expertise, leadership, and compassion support both patients and staff. Through her guidance and willingness to step in wherever help is needed, Kelly helps ensure the team continues to deliver high-quality care.

Her nominator shared, “Kelly is an exceptional leader of the Med/Surg unit. She combines her clinical expertise, leadership, and compassion in a way that directly impacts patients and staff. Kelly steps up wherever she is needed and helps delegate responsibilities. She is kind, always respectful, and truly a joy to work with. She embodies professionalism, leadership, empathy, and dedication. These qualities improve patient care and team performance.”

Kelly’s commitment to teamwork and patient-centered care makes a meaningful difference every day. BCMH is grateful for the leadership and professionalism she brings to her team.

Stay connected with your local hospital! Visit https://bcmhospital.com/news/

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Video: Harrisonville Board of Aldermen meeting this week

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