Obituary - Cindy Sue Leeper

Cindy Sue Leeper of Harrisonville, Missouri, peacefully passed away on Friday, June 27, 2025, at The University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, at the age of 78.

Born on March 3, 1947, in Kansas City, Missouri, Cindy was the daughter of Gerald and Vivian (Shaw) Pech. She began her education at No. 36 School, a one-room schoolhouse, before graduating from Harrisonville High School. Following her high school graduation, she attended Draughon’s Business School, where she honed her skills for a successful career.

Cindy dedicated much of her life to her family and community. She contributed to the family farm and held various positions throughout her career, ultimately serving as an Administrative Assistant at the Cass County Juvenile Center, where she retired after 26 years of dedicated service in 2010. In addition to her professional endeavors, Cindy was passionate about youth development and helped start the Archie 4-H Club, leading it for over 16 years to ensure her children had enriching opportunities. She was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church.

Cindy's love story began when she met Robert G. Leeper at Lone Tree School, a one-room schoolhouse, during the 2nd and 3rd grades. Their connection blossomed when Cindy gave Robert a Christmas card that read, “I like you; do you like me?” to which he sweetly replied, “I love you.” Although they were separated when Cindy’s family moved, they rekindled their relationship shortly after her high school graduation and became engaged at Robert’s graduation. They were married on September 24, 1966, at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, sharing 58 wonderful years together.

Cindy is survived by her devoted husband, Robert G. Leeper, who resides at their home. She leaves behind two sons: Robert G. Leeper Jr. "Robbie" and his wife, Shawna, of Harrisonville, MO; and Travis Leeper of Archie, MO. Her daughters include Stephanie Cumpton and her husband, Craig, of Lee’s Summit, MO, and Jennifer Sims and her husband, Jonathan, of New Braunfels, TX. Cindy was also a proud grandmother to five grandchildren: Dalton and Katie Cumpton, Hayden and Carson Sims, and Tristan Leeper, one sister: Kathy Burkitt, her niece, Jessica Vazquez and her husband, Nelson and two great-nieces, Athena and Ava Vazquez.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held in her honor on Sunday, July 6, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Archie Community Center, located at 34800 S Butcher Road, Archie, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Cindy’s honor to the Archie School, with proceeds designated for the athletic program.

Obituary - Ronald "Ronnie" Dean Hale

Ronald "Ronnie" Dean Hale, 78, of Harrisonville, Missouri, died on Friday, June 27, 2025, at the Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, MO. Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO, with a visitation beginning at 5:30 PM.

Ronnie was born on September 8, 1946, in Braymer MO, the son of William E. and Marilyn Nadine (Coffman) Hale. He was a 1964 graduate of Harrisonville High School. He was drafted into the United States Army, serving in the 101st Airborne unit from February of 1966 to February of 1968. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Harrisonville. Ronnie married Linda E. Downey on October 1, 1965, in Harrisonville, MO.

He worked in many areas of construction retiring as a Construction Superintendent in 2003. His main hobbies were centered around the outdoors and lake life. In 1997, they bought a lake house at Truman Lake and many, many days were spent there. In recent years, he most enjoyed fishing with his dog, Wally, as co-captain.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Linda, of the home; a son, Lance Hale (Kristen), Osceola, MO; a daughter, Lea Nickel (John) Harrisonville, MO; five grandsons: Chase Laizure, Landen Laizure, Gaven Hale, Tyler Nickel, and Brecken Nickel; and 2 great-grandsons, Ayden Laizure and Atlas Nickel.

Obituary - Linda Darlene Kelly

Linda Darlene Kelly, 76, of Summerville, South Carolina, formerly of Belton, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Roper St. Francis Hospital in Charleston, SC. A graveside service is pending arrangements. Memorial contributions are suggested to OOIDA Truckers for Troops.

Born on February 8, 1949, in Harrisonville, MO, to E.L. and Margie (Prettyman) Franse, Linda lived a life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering passion for her family and hobbies. She graduated from Harrisonville, MO, High School. Linda went on to spend her career in the insurance industry, finding fulfillment in her work at OOIDA, where she built strong bonds with her work family. She was proud of her achievements and dedicated to helping others throughout her career.

A true free spirit, Linda had a lifelong love for country music, often filling her home and heart with its joyful melodies or by attending live concerts. She was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, never missing a game, and shared that enthusiasm with her loved ones. She could also be found enjoying NASCAR frequently. Her adventurous spirit led her to embrace nature, often capturing its beauty through her passion for photography and vacation trips to see natures wonders. A devoted follower of her faith, Linda was raised in the Presbyterian Church in Freeman, MO, and her belief in God remained a guiding light throughout her life.

Linda was preceded in death by her husband, John "J.K." Kelly; her parents; her brothers: E.L. "Butch" Franse and David Franse; her uncle, Gene Franse; and her aunt, Donna Franse. Linda's family was her greatest treasure. She is survived by her son, Billy Franse, and daughter-in-law, Amanda Franse; her granddaughter, Adriana; her grandson, Parker; and her nephew, Jeff Franse.

Linda's family was her greatest treasure. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, as we remember a woman who embraced life with open arms, a radiant smile, and an abundance of love. Linda instilled values of love, faith, and joy in all her family members, and her spirit will continue to resonate in their lives.

HUGE celebration in Adrian continues through this evening

New program to showcase historic tractors

Showcase your historic tractor through a new club launched by the American Tractor Museum with MU Extension and Missouri Farm Bureau.

The MU Center for Applied Research and Engagement Systems (CARES) created an online database to collect stories, photos and details about these icons of American agriculture.

“We are using the technology of today to help preserve and share the technology of a century ago,” said Chris Barnett, CARES director.

Whether you have a "century" model tractor or a more modern machine, we invite you to contribute to this expanding collection.

Read more: https://brnw.ch/21wTJyC

Linn County EMA offering free cyber security classes

 

Nevada welcomes new coffee spot

 

Congratulations to Nevada Public Library’s newest tenant, Precision Coffee Company as seen here with an official ribbon cutting this week. Precision Coffee is located at 200 W Walnut St in Nevada, call (417) 448-4831 or stop by to check out their delicious selections.

Happening this evening in Butler

 Butler Student Advisory Committee will be hosting Activity Day at South Park. There will be pickelball ball lessons, glow run/walk, games to play, basketball, and just an evening to enjoy the park.

The event starts at 6 pm.