March 2010 Obituraries

Gertrude "Gertie" E. Derezinski

Gertrude “Gertie” E. Derezinski, 79, of Leavenworth, died Saturday, March 6, 2010, at St Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Mo., with her family at her side.

She was born Nov. 27, 1930, in Leavenworth, one of eight children of James J. and Lillie (Felix) Ramey. Gertie lived in Leavenworth all her life.

On Dec. 31, 1946, she married Peter J. Derezinski. She worked for the Leavenworth and Lansing public school districts in food service. She retired from the Lansing school district after many years of faithful service. Gertie was a charter member of the Baker’s Dozen Bunco Club for 50 plus years. She also enjoyed having lunch out with the retired cafeteria ladies.

She was preceded in death by two infant daughters, Patricia and Deborah; her parents; five sisters, Myrtle “Babe” Hooper, Molly White, Margie Winchell, Catherine Coleman and Florence Whittet; her great-grandson, David M Unger who was killed in Iraq on Oct. 17, 2006.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Pete of the home; her daughter, Kathie (Don) Echols; her grandchildren, Diana (Scott) Pitts, Thomas “Joe” Daniel, great-grandchildren, Jeremy Unger, Joani Unger, Shane Unger, Sadie Pitts, Jacob Daniel and Dallas Carpenter; her two great-great-grandchildren, Gage Unger and Laila Jacquez-Lopez; her great-granddaughter-in-law, Laura Unger and Lailas mother, Jennifer Lopez; her sister, Joan Shockey; and her brother James Ramey.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 9, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday March 10, 2010, at the funeral home with Rev. Joseph Trusty officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Fisher House.

Nijmeh E. Goss

Nijmeh E. Goss, 72, of Knoxville, Tenn., formerly of St. Joseph, Mo., passed away Saturday, March 6, 2010, at Mercy Medical Center in Knoxville, Tenn. She attended All Saints Catholic Church in Knoxville. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Goss; and her parents.

She is survived by sons, James E. Goss and wife Sarah of Knoxville, Tenn., Joseph H. Goss and his wife Jane of Kansas City, Mo., and Mark A. Goss and wife Debbie of St. Joseph, Mo. She also has nine grandchildren; Philip, Anna, Mariel, Lydia, Jonathan, Stephen, Jenny, Jordan, and Jeremy.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 11, 2010, at the Main Post Chapel, Fort Leavenworth. Burial will follow at Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery. Arrangements by R.L. Leintz Funeral Home

Mary Ellen Clark

Mary Ellen Clark, 68, of Lansing, died Saturday, March 6, 2010, at her home. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, March 8, 2010, at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

February 2010 Obituraries

Ann C. Smith

Ann C. Smith, 84, formerly of Lansing, went home to her Heavenly Father and to be with her beloved parents on Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2010, in Logan, Utah.

She was born on Nov. 24, 1925, in Kansas City, Kan., to Dewey and Gladys (Hall) Chaney. She and her family lived in Santa Monica, Ca., during her childhood. They moved to Phoenix, Ariz., where she graduated from high school at the tender age of sixteen. She went on to attend Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa for the next two years where she lettered in volleyball and soccer. After returning to Phoenix she was very active in the USO during WWII. 

While living in Missouri she graduated from Central Missouri State College with a BS in elementary education. In 1963 she relocated to Lansing, Kan., where she taught at several elementary schools including Nine Mile School (a two room school house). She began her career in social services in Leavenworth County until going on to quality control for the state of Kansas.

Ann had a strong love for God, family, helping others and reading, especially history and Native American information. She was a life long member of the Community of Christ Church.

Ann was preceded in death by her mother and father.

She is survived by her brother, Robert (Pat) Chaney of Vancouver, Wash.; five children,: Gladys (Wayne) Sutton of Leavenworth, Diane Jacobs of Depoe Bay, Ore., Ronald Smith of Denver, Colo., Rhonda Hardwick of Phoenix, Ariz., Sherry (Jim) Talty of Logan, Utah; 10 grandchildren, Mary (Sutton) Dixon, Debra (Sutton) Derleth, Chris Sutton, Mike Sutton, Allison (Raleigh) Lowe, Kellen Smith, Kira Smith, Jennifer (Hardwick) Thomason, Evangelina (Talty) Zeller and Carmelita (Talty) Mullins; and 11 great- grandchildren. 

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A Life Celebration will begin at 1 p.m. at the funeral home after the visitation. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Garden Cemetery. Memorials in her name are suggested to Community of Christ Church.

Arvella Irene Arnold

Arvella Irene Arnold, 93, of Leavenworth, died Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2010, at her home. She was born Jan. 14, 1917, in Easton, the daughter of Floyd and Grace (Goff) Warden.

In 1935 she married John A. Arnold in Platte City, Mo. He preceded her in death on Oct. 6, 1974. She was also preceded in death by two children, Roland “Buddy” Arnold and Connie Cunningham; and two sisters, Dorothy Duree and Ruth Clinkenbeard.

Arvella is survived by her four daughters, Joyce Howard of Leavenworth, Carole Moran and her husband John of Leavenworth, Donna Musgrave and her husband Bob of Goldsboro, N.C. and Pam Mitchell and her husband George of Huntsville, Ala. Arvella was blessed with 25 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Robert Warden and her daughter-in-law, Diane Arnold.

Arvella was a member of First United Methodist Church. She also had been an active volunteer at Cushing Memorial Hospital.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19, 2010, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mount Muncie Cemetery.

Ret. U.S. Army Lt. Col. John Dale Esher

Ret. U.S. Army Lt. Col. John Dale Esher, 79, of Leavenworth, died Sunday, Feb. 14, 2010, at Cushing Memorial Hospital. He was born April 20, 1930, in Philadelphia, Pa., the son of John Harry and Pearl Hipkiss (Wythe) Esher.

John attended Girard College and the Drexel Institute in Philadelphia, Pa., from 1947 to 1949 and studied chemical engineering. He attended the University of Louisville and studied law for one year, and then later earned his bachelor’s degree in 1968 from the University of Maryland. In 1972 he attended the University of Missouri-Kansas City and also the University of Kansas, completing his second master’s degree in 1973. John proudly served in the U.S. Army for 24 years. As part of his Army career he served as Chief of Army Group at the U.S. Embassy in Montevideo, Uruguay, and as Course Chief and Instructor at the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth. His military assignments also took him to Germany, South Korea, Vietnam, Mexico City, and Panama.

  On Sept. 10, 1949, John married Nancy Caroline Cocking in Upper Darby, Pa., and she survives at the home. He is also survived by his children, Ret. U.S. Navy Reserve Capt. Mark R. Esher, Esq. of Shawnee Mission, Kan., Ret. U.S. Air Force Maj. Michael D. (Tracie) Esher, Esq. of Gig Harbor, Wash., Susan L. (Ret. U.S. Army Lt. Col. Scott) Wilson of Leavenworth, and Barbara J. (Robert) Bristow of Leavenworth; and six grandchildren: Jonathan Wilson, Nicole Bristow, Robert Bristow, Andrew Bristow, Jennifer Esher and Jason Esher; and one great-grandchild.

  In accordance with his wishes, he was cremated and no services are planned. Private family inurnment will be at Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery with full military honors. His family intends to celebrate his memory quietly and wishes to thank all family and friends for their kind thoughts. He was a dedicated family man and father who touched many lives, and he will be greatly missed.

John W. Vaughn

John W. Vaughn, 88, of Leavenworth, passed away Friday, Feb. 12, 2010, at Kansas City Hospice House.

John Vaughn was born in Nicodemus, Kan., on June 3, 1921, to the union of Charles S. Vaughn and Clementine (Napue) Vaughn. He was the fifth child and youngest son of 10 children. His parents; brothers, Norval Serene, Charles Thaddeus; sisters, Velva Arlene, Margaret Elizabeth, Alice Rodema and Odella Marie preceded him in death.

John was baptized at an early age at First Baptist Church Nicodemus.

John attended elementary school District #1, Graham County and High School in Bogue, Kan.  He was active in the Glee Club, Woodshop and excelled in all sports; taking all state in baseball, basketball and football. John played baseball at “Scruggs Grove”

in Nicodemus, with Satchel Paige, Pitcher for the Negro Baseball League (Kansas City Monarchs). He also had the opportunity to play baseball in Europe. Later in life his friends in Lincoln, Neb., nicknamed him “Jackie Robinson”.

After graduation, John enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served in World War II stationed in Europe and received an honorable discharge from service in 1945. After his discharge he moved to Lincoln, Neb.

John was employed by Burlington Northern Railroad for over 40 years retiring in 1982. 

He was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Lincoln. He was very active in the Elks Lodge and served several positions. Upon the death of his brother Norval, John rose to Grand Exalted Ruler of Corn Husker Lodge #579. Later, John was elevated to Grand District Deputy for the Midwestern Region. He became a Mentor to the young and Teacher to all the brothers traveling extensively within the United States.

John was united in holy matrimony to Clara Alexander and shared 36 Years together. They were proud parents to one son, Philip and a special nephew, Stephen. Clara preceded him in death in 1988.

He moved to Leavenworth in 1990.  John united in holy matrimony to Phyllis Moman-Creighton. They embraced life to the fullest with children, Jimmy, Jerry, Gwen; friends and family. Phyllis preceded him in death in 1998.

John became a member of Independent Baptist Church and served on the Usher Ministry and was a member of the Male Chorus.

John made his transition into eternity on February 12, 2010 at Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care. His footprints of life will leave a lasting impression to all.

John leaves to cherish his memory his devoted children, Philip Alexander, Gwen Smith Alexander of Kansas City, Kan., James Creighton (Clarinda) of Leavenworth, Gerald Creighton (Linda) of Chicago, Ill.; sisters, Lee Anna McMurray of Pasadena, Ca., Ruth B. Finney of Chicago, Ill.; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nephews; niece; great and great-great nephews, nieces; cousins; and a host of friends.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service with military honors will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010, at Independent Baptist Church with viewing one hour prior. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 22, 2010, at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

Richard G. Jennings

Richard Glenn Jennings, 59, of Lansing, died Thursday, Feb. 11, 2010, at Tonganoxie Nursing Center. He was born June 27, 1950, in Kansas City, Kan., the son of John R. and Geraldine A. (Harris) Jennings.

He is survived by his sister, Felicia A. (Don) Nead of Bonner Springs, Kan.; his nieces and nephews, Aaron Whitley, Andrea Jennings-Strathman, Lauren Jennings, Reid Jennings, Eric Nead and Bo Nead.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Carl J. Jennings.

Richard was a musician who played the bass drums in local bands. He enjoyed fishing and was a lifetime member of the North American Fishing Club.

Visitation will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 15, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A memorial service and military honors will follow the visitation at 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Inurnment will be at a later date at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

 Izora Alexander

Izora Alexander, 72, of Leavenworth, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2010, at St. John Hospital. She was born July 11, 1937, in Ada, Okla., the daughter of Brownie and Florena (Gilbreath) Clark.

Izora graduated form PCA International of Lancaster, Pa. She was a valued employee of Hallmark Cards. Izora was also a licensed daycare provider for many years. She was an active member of the “All Nations Seventh-Day Adventists Church”, in Leavenworth.

On Aug. 14, 1961, she married Thurman E. Alexander Sr.  To this union ten children were born, seven girls and three boys. Izora is survived by five daughters and one son, Debra Rodriguez of Atlanta, Ga., Linda Graham of Leavenworth, Thurman Alexander Jr. of Leavenworth, Sharon Brown of Lansing, Brenda Gibson of St. Robert, Mo., and Katina White of Leavenworth; three brothers, Otis Grayson of San Francisco, Ca., Dr. Lester Clark of Langston, Okla., and Rufus Clark of Ada, Okla.; two sisters, Ella Mae Briggs of Ada, Okla., and Ruby Ranson of Ada, Okla.; one aunt, Mable Frazier of Ada, Okla.; 16 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; four sons-in-law,; and a host of adopted children.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Florena and Brownie Clark; her husband of 25 years, Thurman Alexander Sr.; brothers, Augustus Brown, Chester Clark and Leon Clark; and four infant children.

Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Feb.15, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. after the visitation at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mount Muncie Cemetery.

Norma J. Bogart

Norma J. Bogart, 61, of Lansing, died Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2010, at her home. She was born June 30, 1948, in Ransom, Kan., the daughter of Edwin and Armella (Stegman) Graf.

Norma lived on her grandparents’ farm until she was three. She then moved to Great Bend, Kan., where she attended Saint Rose Catholic grade school and graduated from Great Bend High School. While attending college Norma had several jobs; most important was her employment at Hays Building and Loan where she learned the savings and loan business from the ground up. In 1969 she met Steven Bogart at her sister’s wedding. They courted by mail while he served in the U.S. Navy. On March 21, 1970, she married Steven Bogart in Great Bend, Kan. and became a Navy wife first stationed in New London, Conn., then Holy Loch, Scotland. In 1974, they moved back to Hays, Kan., and later settled in the Kansas City area in 1989.  Norma went to work for Franklin Savings in Ottawa, Kan., before she began working at Mutual Savings and Loan in Leavenworth, Kan. in 1995. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and medically retired with 15 years of service as Senior Vice President of Lending.

Norma is survived by her husband, Steven Bogart of the home; her three sons, Kevin A. (Kimberly) Bogart of DeSoto, Kan., Sean M. (Jennifer) Bogart of Richardson, Texas and Aaron M. (Amy) Bogart of Kirksville, Mo.; her grandchildren, Tristen, Tanner, Riley, Calvin, Taylor, and Stella Bogart; her father, Edwin (Jewell) Graf; her siblings, Janice (Lee) Burkhead, Jim (Kathy) Graf, Mike (Robbie) Graf, Tom (Shyrlene) Graf and David Graf; and several nieces and nephews.

 She was preceded in death by her mother.

Norma played an active part during her sons’ years of scouting.  Her passion was her six grandchildren and she was well known for her quilting. She made over 100 quilts and took pride in giving them to others.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb.11, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. The family will pray the rosary at the end of the visitation. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 am. Friday, Feb. 12, 2010, at St. Francis deSales Catholic Church with Rev. Michael Stubbs as celebrant. Entombment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Kansas City Hospice or Pancreatic Cancer research.

F. Ronald “Ron” Wiseman

F. Ronald “Ron” Wiseman, 68 of Lansing, went home to be with the Lord, on Tuesday, Feb 9, 2010, at the University of Kansas Hospital.

He was born Jan. 30, 1942, in Leavenworth, the son of Floyd John and Ruby Lorraine (Rogers) Wiseman. Ron attended Leavenworth High School and graduated in 1960. After graduation he served in the U.S. Air Force where he attended Yale University and studied to be a Chinese linguist. After discharge from the Air Force he attended the University of Kansas and received a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

Ron worked at Cochran and Head CPA firm and then worked for School Employees Credit Union as well as other credit unions in the Kansas City area. He was later employed as a computer programmer for International Software Systems. He also owned his own company F. Ronald Wiseman and Associates as a title abstractor until he retired in 2004.

He enjoyed traveling on family vacations. He also enjoyed entertaining family and friends by playing guitar and singing. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife, Diane of the home; one son, Ronnie (Anna) Wiseman; two daughters, Melissa (John) Menzel and Jenny (Jimmy) Johnson all of Lansing; ten grandchildren who loved their Papa very much, Dylan, Darren, Avery and Ryan Wiseman, Brett, Austin, and Maria Menzel, Brandon, Kaleigh and Tyler Johnson all of Lansing; one sister, Donna (Gary) Meyers of Leavenworth; one brother, Gary (Julie) Wiseman of Peyton, Colo.; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Pamela Patzwald; and a niece, Tishe McFadden.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 12, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, 2010, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Brooke Alexandra Jacobson

Brooke Alexandra Jacobson, 5, of Lansing, passed away Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010, at her home.

She was born Dec. 11, 2004, in Leavenworth, the daughter of Mark B. and Denise E. (Dahlquist) Jacobson.

Brooke is survived by her parents of the home and her siblings, William F. Gering and Carley Elizabeth Jacobson of the home; and her grandparents, Joyce E. Dahlquist, Estelle Meyer, and Terry and Sharon Jacobson.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Karl Dahlquist.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 14, 2010, with a vigil service at 6 p.m. at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 15, 2010, at St Francis deSales Catholic Church with Rev. Michael Stubbs as celebrant. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. A memorial fund has been established in her name at Bank Midwest, 1901 S. 4th Street, Leavenworth, KS 66048

Katharina J. Guy

Katharina (Jaud) Guy, 78, of Leavenworth, Kan., died on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010, at Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, Mo.

She was born in Bad Toelz, Germany on Sept. 4, 1931, the daughter of Josef and Maria Jaud of Ellbach, Germany. She married LeRoy Guy of Amberg, Wis. in Heilbronn, Germany in 1958 and came to the United States with her husband and daughter in 1959.  She was extremely proud of having become a citizen of the United States as soon as she was eligible. She was a staunch republican and was proud to have done her duty by voting in every presidential election since she was eligible. Although she lived in the United States for over 50 years and had an extremely good command of English, she never lost her delightful German accent.  Her hobbies were reading and sewing and in later years she took up machine embroidery which she greatly enjoyed.  She loved to travel, both visiting and living in new places and seemed to really enjoy the constant relocating required by her husband’s career in the US Army. Katharina was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 56 Ladies Auxiliary and Chapter 75 Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Maria.  She is survived by her husband, LeRoy (Roy) Guy of Leavenworth, Kan.; a brother, Josef Jaud of Ellbach, Germany; a daughter, Col. (Dr) Sonja Thompson of Fort Hood, Texas; a granddaughter, Kerry Doke of McKinney, Texas; a grandson, Jason Thompson of Fort Walton Beach, Fla.; and a great grandson, Carson Doke.  She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. 

Visitation will be from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow the visitation at 7 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Joseph Hannon as celebrant.

Billy M. Whiteside

Billy M. Whiteside, 76, of Lenexa, Kan., formerly of Leavenworth, died Monday, Feb. 1, 2010, at Shawnee Mission Medical Center. He was born to the proud parents of Robert M. and Willie B. Howell Whiteside on July 6, 1933, in the rural area of Pineville, N.C. 

At the age of four his parents purchased a farm and moved to Lower Providence in Mecklenburg County when he attended school at Providence Elementary School.  He attended Pineville School from 1942 to 1950.  He graduated from East Mecklenburg High School in May 1951.  During this time he was well known in Pineville, N.C. where he delivered milk from his father's dairy farm.  Billy attended Brevard College, Brevard, N.C. from 1951 to 1953, transferring to High Point College, High Point, N.C. where he graduated in June 1955, with a BA Degree in Religious Education.  While attending High Point College he met Miss Bernice L. White from Elizabeth City, N.C.  Bernice graduated from Meredith College in June 1954, with a degree in Music. On Aug. 28, 1955, they were married and moved to Atlanta, Ga., where Billy attended the Candler School of Theology, Emory University.  He graduated in December 1957 with a DB Degree in Theology (Later upgraded to M. Div.).  Upon graduation they returned to North Carolina where Billy served pastorates in the United Methodist Church at Brooks Cross Roads and the Crabtree UMC near Waynesville, N.C.  Due to the Cuban Crisis and the Berlin Buildup, Billy was encouraged to enter the military chaplaincy by the former Retired Chief of Navy Chaplains, Chaplain (Rear Admiral) Thomas.  On April 27, 1961, Billy entered the US Army Chaplaincy.  Although his obligation was for only three years, the challenge and opportunities for ministry stretched his obligation into 30 years, retiring with the rank of Colonel on April 30, 1991.  He and his family were stationed on many installations throughout America to include; Ft. Eustis, Virginia, Ft. Sloccum, NY, Miami/Homestead AFB, Florida, Ft. Hamilton, NY, Ft. George G. Mead, MD, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C., Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., and Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Ala., as well as overseas tours in Germany and Ethiopia.  Chaplain Whiteside served unaccompanied tours to Vietnam (1967-'68) and the Republic of Korea (1980-'81). While serving in Ethiopia, Bernice received the Order of the Queen of Sheba Award for the many activities and services she rendered that benefited the local populace as well as the relations with the Imperial Ethiopian Government.  Upon our departure in June 1973, she and our two sons, Bill and Barry were presented commemorative gold coins by his Imperial Majesty, Haile Selassie. Upon completing his Clinic Pastoral Internship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center he was assigned to the United States Disciplinary Barrack, the Military's only maximum security facility, for the purpose of developing a Holistic Pastoral Care Program based on the medical model.  The program was extremely successful and received many requests from Federal and State Confinement Facilities to be used as a model for their facility.  His research and development enabled him to receive his MA Degree from the University of Missouri at Kansas City in December 1983. Also, while serving at Ft. Leavenworth he became a member to the Kansas Association for Marriage and Family Therapist.  Upon retiring from the US Army he became a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and established a private practice in Leavenworth, Kan., as well as serving local pastorates and as contract chaplain for the Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center.  Also upon retiring from the military he attended the St. Paul School of Theology, Kansas City, Mo., where he received his Doctor of Ministry Degree on May 23, 1997. 

Billy's military decorations and wards include the Legion of Merit, Bronze with Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal w/5OLC, Army Commendation Medal w/1OLC, Presidential Unit Citation, Unit Citation w/1OLC as well as other medals and foreign decorations.

Chaplain Whiteside is preceded in death by his Mother and Father, Robert M. and Willie B. Howell Whiteside; one sister, Margie Whiteside Squires.

Surviving family members include his bride of 58 years, Bernice(White) Whiteside of the home; his  two sons, Bill M. and Linda (Hlavacek) Whiteside of Lenexa, Kan., and Barry D. and Janice(Cordray) Whiteside of Irmo, S.C.; three grandchildren, Jonah, Eric and Jordan; one sister, Mary K. Robinson of Charlotte, N.C.; and one brother, Robert W. Whiteside of Ft. Mill, S.C.

Chaplain Whiteside was a member of the Leavenworth Rotary Club and The Mustang Club of Greater Kansas City.

The family will receive friends from 12 to 12:30 p.m. Friday, Feb, 5, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 12:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial with full military honors will be at 1:30 p.m. at Leavenworth National Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Leavenworth Rotary Club.

January 2010 Obituraries

Ralph “Trapper” Vernon Brenneman

Ralph “Trapper” Vernon Brenneman, 67, of Leavenworth, died Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010, at his home. He was born Jan. 22, 1943, in Leavenworth, the son of Ralph and Eleanora (Wells) Brenneman

After graduation from high school Trapper served in the Navy and was honorably discharged in 1966. On Dec. 24, 1984, he married Zandra Roderick in Texas. She survives at the home. He is also survived by his father, Norman Justus of Smithville, Mo.; his two sons, Ernest (Gena) Shikles of Humble, Texas and Aaron (Inez) Brenneman of Australia; five grandchildren; his sister, Nora Monroe; his brother, James Justus; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Trapper was preceded in death by his mother.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing and time spent with his family. Trapper and Zandra moved back to Leavenworth in 2000

Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will be at 9 a.m. Monday, Feb. 1, 2010, at the funeral home. Burial with Navy honors will follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

Dorothy E. Simons

Dorothy E. (Collins) Simons, 92, of Lansing, died Monday, Jan. 25, 2010, at Golden Living Center. She was born May 16, 1917, in Leavenworth, the daughter of Edward and Ellen (Driscoll) Collins Jr.

Dorothy attended the Old Cathedral Grade School and Immaculata High School. She married Everett D. Simons in Leavenworth. He preceded her in death on July 13, 1983. She was also preceded in death by her parents; an infant son, Everett D. Simons, Jr.; her sister, Kathleen Kelley; a step-grandson, Greg Walkup; and a step-great-grandson, Jake Walkup.

She is survived by her son, Edward G. Simons of Lansing; her step-grandchildren, Teresa (Tom) Fliger of Basehor, Bart (Candace) Walkup of Shawnee, Kan., and Trena Gilfert of Lansing; five step-great-grandchildren, Avery, Carson, Landon Fliger and Sydney and Megan Walkup.

Dorothy enjoyed being a housewife. She was a life-long member of Immaculate Conception Parish. She also enjoyed traveling and the time spent with family and friends. She left her home of 56 years to live at Golden Living Center in Lansing. She was well-known for her smile, her appetite and her love and appreciation of those who visited her.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. after the visitation at the church with Rev. David McEvoy, O.Carm., as celebrant. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Immaculata High School.

Ellene Barnett

Ellene Barnett, 71, of Leavenworth, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, at her home after an eight month battle with cancer. She was born Dec. 8, 1938, in Leavenworth, the daughter of Vernon F. and Rozina (Smith) Rogers.

Ellene attended Summer Grade School and graduated from Leavenworth Senior High School in 1956. She attended and graduated from barber college. Ellene operated an in-home barber shop for many years. At the age of 52 she graduated Metropolitan Community College. She retired from the Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center after 30 years of dedicated service. After retirement Ellene worked as a school bus monitor for Easton Bus Service.

Ellene was a life-long member of Sunflower Missionary Baptist Church. She worked with the Sunflower Missionary Baptist Church and the Northeast District association Sun Beams program. She also served as a Deaconess, church clerk and assisted in many of the church ministries when called upon.

Ellene leaves to celebrate her home going, her husband of 36 years, Robert L. Barnett; her sons, Frederick Joseph (Karla) Lambkins of Mesa, Ariz., Clarence Dean Lambkins of Norton, Kan., Thomas Phillip (Shelly) Lambkins of Colorado Springs, Colo., Gregory Allen Lambkins of Parsons, Kan., Randall Eugene (Shirley Ann) Lambkins of Littleton, Colo.; her step-children, Robert Jerome Barnett of Olive Branch, Miss., Linda Barnett of Cape Girardeau, Mo. and Janet Barnett, of Milwaukee Wis.; eight grandchildren; one great-grandson; her sisters who are also celebrating her departure are, Rozella Brown of Palms Springs, Calif., Pauline Miller of Aurora, Colo., Carol Rathman and Betty Smith of Leavenworth and Emma Gatlin of Shawnee Mission, Kan.; her brothers, David Rogers of Aurora Colo. and Samuel Rogers of Kansas City, Kan.;  special friends, Floyd and Louise Ross; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Ellene enjoyed traveling with her sisters and niece on their annual trips and other activities with her family and friends. She had a special love for making ethnic dolls and giving them to special people in her life. She especially loved working in her yard.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon F. and Rozina Rogers; her sisters Mary L. Ward, Venitta Johnson and Anna Collins; and her brother, Vernon F Rogers Jr.

Lawrence Wayne Spencer

Lawrence Wayne Spencer, 66, of Farley, Mo., died Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010, at his home. He was born July 25, 1943, in Otterville, Mo., the son of David and Zelma (Cathon) Spencer.

On June 17, 1983, he married Barbara Moreland in Miami, Okla. She survives at the home. He is also survived by his children, Peggy (Emery) Anderson of Weston, Becky Healey of Weston, Sherry (Danny) Mauldin of Farley, Regina (Gill) Forgey of Leavenworth, Anita (Dave) Uko of Shawnee, Kan. and Belinda (Chuck) McCardie of Farley; his mother, Zelma Copeland; his siblings, Earl (Pat) Spencer, Onnie (John)  Haddock, Laverne (Melody) Spencer, Walter Spencer and Major (Linda) Spencer; 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Wayne was preceded in death by his father and two siblings, Peggy Elliott and Clarence Spencer.

On May 1, 1970, Wayne went to work at the Leavenworth Fire Department. He was promoted to Driver/Operator on Nov. 8, 1972. On March 26, 1977, he was promoted to Captain and on Jan. 13, 1984, he was promoted to Assistant Chief. He retired on Dec. 24, 1998.

He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Wayne was a history buff and particularly enjoyed the civil war era.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan.22, 2010, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010 at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to Three Rivers Hospice, P.O. Box 1937, Platte City, MO 64079

Daniel J. Berkos

Daniel J. Berkos, 59, died Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010, in Tucson, Ariz. Inurnment will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 8, 2010, at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Robert L. Lewis

Robert L. Lewis, 62, of Leavenworth, passed away, Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010, at his home.

He was born Jan. 30, 1947, in Leavenworth, the son of Chester and Harvelene (Goodwin) Lewis Sr.

Robert  is survived by his former wife of 30 years, Vicki Lewis of Leavenworth; his daughter, Victoria Lewis of Leavenworth; his son, Adrien Lewis of Overland Park, Kan.; his brothers, Chester Lewis Jr., Douglas Lewis, and Terrence Lewis  all of Leavenworth; and his two grandchildren, Adora & Maleki Lewis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvelene & Chester Lewis Sr. and his brother, Harvey Lewis.

Robert enjoyed being around friends and family, especially his grandchildren, Adora and Maleki. He was always willing to help friends, family and even strangers.

 He served on the Leavenworth Police Department and retired as Sergeant.

Robert also worked at the VA Medical Center in Leavenworth as a Pharmacy Technician until his retirement.

 Robert will be sadly missed by his family, friends and all that knew him.

 Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010 at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 11, 2010, at Independent Baptist Church with viewing one hour prior to the service. Burial with military honors will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

December 2009 Obituaries

April L. Crum

April L. Crum, 55, of Leavenworth, died Monday, Dec. 28, 2009, at Golden Living Center. She was born April 19, 1954, in Leavenworth, the daughter of Alois and Betty Porter.

She is survived by her children, Sara (Greg) Wiley of Leavenworth, Mary Crum of Leavenworth and John Crum of Overland Park, Kan.; her siblings, Ivy (Bill) Klingele, Michael (Darla) Porter, Gloria (Jefty) Uptain and Charles Wayne Patton; four grandchildren, Justice, Kiya, Willow and Michaela; her nieces and nephews, Stacey, Julianne, Nikki, Jake and Cody; her great-niece and nephew, Makenzi and Devin; her aunts and uncles, Dixie Walkenbach, Woody Porter, Verda Baker and Kenny Porter; and a special friend, Elizabeth Patzwald.

April was preceded in death by her parents and a grandson, David Alan.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2009, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2009, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Hampton Cemetery.

Jack G. Eagles Jr.

Jack G. Eagles Jr., 64, of Leavenworth, died Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009, at Kansas City Hospice House. He was born April 10, 1945, in Leavenworth, the son of Jack George Ward Eagles and Dorothy May (Gausz) Eagles.

Jack graduated from Immaculata High School in 1963. After graduation he enlisted in the U. S. Air Force and served with the Air Police in S.E. Asia and DaNang Air Bases in 1964.

From 1967 to 1970 Jack was a deputy sheriff with the Leavenworth County Sheriff Department. He then worked at the Leavenworth Federal Prison until 1983. Jack worked with the U.S. Coast Guard for three years and worked with the department of the Army for twelve years. He served in Desert Shield/Storm from 1990 to 1991. During his military career he received many awards to include expert marksman. In 1996 he retired from the Army Reserves as a Brigade Sergeant Major. After his military retirement he worked at several security jobs to include 10 years at Saint Mary College as a Security Supervisor.

On Oct. 2, 1965, he married Peggy Trum. During their marriage they had three daughters. They divorced in March of 1978. He will be sadly missed by his three daughters, Roxane (Tom) Turnbull, Dawn (Jon) LeBar and Kim (Mike) Logan; 10 grandchildren who will miss him are, Michael and Heather McFarlin, Lauren and Matthew Turnbull, Michaela LeBar, Jessie and Jason Eberth, Garrett, Abby and Gwen Logan; his sisters, Mary Ann Messer and Toni (Leo) Fink; and many nieces and nephews. He will also be greatly missed by his “spoiled” white German shepherd, Casper.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, William “Willie” Eagles; and his nephew, Daniel Fink.

Jack was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Vietnam Security Police Association, the National Rifle Association, the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Smith and Wesson Club. He loved his motorcycle, going camping, spending time at the lake and the time spent at the shooting range. He enjoyed teaching others how to shoot, especially his daughters and nephews. Jack loved teasing and tormenting his grandchildren. He also loved to travel and meet new people. No one was ever a stranger to him. He will be sadly missed by all that knew and loved him.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14, 2009, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. The rosary will be prayed at 5 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at Immaculate Conception Church with Rev. David McEvoy, O.Carm., as celebrant. Burial with full military honors will follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, Immaculate Conception Church or the Vietnam Security Police Association.

Theodore “Ted” Keith Higgins

Theodore “Ted” Keith Higgins, 67, of Leavenworth, died Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009, at his home. He was born Sept. 29, 1942, in Leavenworth, the son of Walter and Helen (Snodgrass) Higgins.

After graduation from high school Ted served in the U.S. Army for two years. On May 27, 1966, he married Gail Helm in Leavenworth. She survives at the home. He is also survived by his children, Brian Higgins of Leavenworth and Ann (Jeff) Blockburger of Leavenworth; his brothers, James, Edward, Dennis, Roger, Gary, Terry Higgins; and a sister, Janice Dill.

Ted worked for many years at Missouri Valley Steel until it closed. He then went to work at Fort Leavenworth and retired from civil service five years ago. He also owned and operated an income tax preparation business from his home for 40 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, going to the casino and traveling.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will be at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of his mother.

Eugenia "Jean" L. Ralston

Eugenia “Jean” L. Ralston, 91, formerly of Leavenworth, died Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009, at Country Care of Easton. She was born Sept. 18, 1918, in Leavenworth, the daughter of John Antonio and Josephine (Mayer) Ruga.

In 1953 she married Clifford Ralston. He preceded her in death on Oct. 13. 1994. She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Catherine Clift and her twin sister Carmen Gabrick, who died Dec. 1, 2009; and a brother, Edward Ruga.

She is survived by, two step-children; seven step-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; two nephews, Lucien Gabrick Jr. and wife Ann of Olathe, and Mark Gabrick and wife Annette of Lawrence; and a niece, Gloria Gabrick of Charlotte, N.C.

Jean worked at Gould National Battery for 38 years. She retired in 1980. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the church altar society, Daughters of Isabella, Friendship Club, the Eagles Auxiliary and Eagles R.E.A.C.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, at St. Joseph Church. Burial will follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph Church.

Carmen Gabrick

Carmen Marie Gabrick, 91, of Leavenworth, died Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. She was born Sept. 18, 1918, in Leavenworth, the daughter of John Antonio and Josephine (Mayer) Ruga.

On April 16, 1942, she married Lucien P Gabrick Sr., at St. Joseph Church. He survives at the home. She is also survived by two sons, Lucien Gabrick Jr. and wife Ann of Olathe, Kan., and Mark Gabrick and wife Annette of Lawrence, Kan.; one daughter, Gloria Gabrick of Charlotte, N.C.; three step-granddaughters, seven step-great-grandchildren; and her twin sister, Eugenia Ralston.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Catherine Clift; and a brother, Edward Ruga.

Carmen was a lifetime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. She was also a member of the church altar society, Daughters of Isabella, Friendship Club, Eagles Auxiliary and Eagles R.E.A.C.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. The Rosary will be prayed at 6 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, at St. Joseph Church with Rev. David McEvoy, O.Carm.,  as celebrant. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph Church.

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