Virginia P. Bartlett
Oct. 28, 1946 – Jan. 15, 2022
Virginia “Ginger” Paulina (Rhoades) Bartlett was born Oct. 28, 1946, in Kansas City, the daughter of Charles H. and Meta D. Graenser Rhoades.
She attended school in Raytown and Lee’s Summit.
On Aug. 13, 1963, she married the love of her life, Jimmy Leon Bartlett, in Lee’s Summit. They spent the first year of their life together in Pensacola, Florida, where Jimmy was stationed in the United States Navy. After finishing his stay in the Navy, they moved back to Lee’s Summit and eventually settled in Harrisonville in 1967 to raise their girls.
Moving to Harrisonville was one of the best things she said they ever did. It brought them into a new group of friends who led them to Jesus. She and Jimmy both accepted Christ in 1973. They raised their girls in a loving Christian home. The girls never doubted how much they were loved.
Ginger loved sewing, embroidery, crocheting, fishing with Daddy, genealogy and spending time with her family. She loved her grandchildren and oh how she loved her great-grandchildren. She always had a drawer in her kitchen full of candy and all the kids, even the grown married kids, knew it would be full for them.
Ginger was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Jimmy Leon Bartlett, on March 11, 2018; her parents; two brothers, Charles S. Rhoades and Richard L. Rhoades; an infant granddaughter, Callie Lee Derks; and infant great-granddaughter, Kynlee Grace McLean.
She is survived by three daughters, Tammy and Pat Powers, Harrisonville, Tracey Bowers, Belton, and Jamey and Eric Derks, Branson; two sisters, Jo and Chuck Lyon, Wheatland, and Roxie and John Byrne, Arizona; two sisters-in-law, Elda Rhoades and Donna Rhoades, Lee’s Summit; a brother-in-law, Dave Peniston, Lee’s Summit; grandchildren, Jennifer and Spencer McLean, and Laura and Kyle Schneidler, all of Garden City, Jacob Bowers, Canada; Nick and Brianna Bowers, Belton, Paul and Rickie Derks, Lake Cormorant, Mississippi, David Derks and Stephen Derks, Maryville; great-grandchildren, Addisynn, Shayne, Sydney and Austyn McLean; August Bowers; Declan Derks and baby Bowers due in June; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. Jan. 28 at the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Jan. 28 at the funeral home, with burial in the Clearfork Cemetery, Garden City.
The family suggests memorial contributions to the Cass County DARE program.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Robert R. Earlywine
Nov. 21, 1937 – Jan. 18, 2022
Robert “Bob” Ray Earlywine, Harrisonville, was born Nov. 21, 1937, in Mount Vernon, Ohio, the son of Dwight Otis and Harriet (Crowe) Earlywine. He died Jan. 18 at the Cass Regional Medical Center, Harrisonville, at the age of 84 years, 1 month and 28 days.
On Sept. 5, 1964, Bob married Dorothy Jean Stafford in Mount Vernon, Ohio.
Bob graduated from Ozark Christian College in 1976 and was ordained as a minister in 1976. He was the pastor at Christ Church and New Testament Christian Church in Harrisonville for 30 years.
He loved being outdoors and growing a vegetable garden every year.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, John Earlywine, and a sister, Jayne Mastroianni.
Bob is survived by his wife, Dorothy Earlywine, of the home; a daughter, Greta Rae Earlywine Riffle, Kansas City; a son, Travis Dwight Earlywine, Olathe, Kansas; six grandchildren, Samuel, Katherine and Benjamin Riffle, and Jackson, James and Jonathan Earlywine; a brother, James Earlywine, Danville, Ohio; Patricia Mickly, Mount Vernon, Ohio; other relatives and friends.
A private family service was held at the Garden City Cemetery, Garden City.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
James A. Hayes
June 28, 1939 – Jan. 19, 2022
James A. “Jim” Hayes died Jan. 19 in Beaufort, South Carolina.
Jim is survived by his wife, Glendia Hatton-Hayes; daughters, Virginia and Chris Charnesky, Harrisonville, Kimberley and David Grant, Ash Grove and Cheryl and Chris Glattes, Nashville, Tennessee; grandchildren, Jacob and Ashden Grant and their children, Mahalee, Jace and Rylyn of Everton, Kate Charnesky, Harrisonville, Aiden Grant, Ash Grove, Mary Grace and Maeve Glattes, Nashville; sisters, Mildred Smith, Harrisonville, Dorothy Davis, Peculiar, and Alice Smith, Spring Hill, Florida; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James Urton and Byrda Martha (Findley) Hayes; his wife of 39 years, Mary Louise (Hallar) Hayes; daughter, Christy LeAnn Hayes; a sister, Betty Jane Phillips; brothers-in-law, J. Harold Smith, Frank Davis and Jack Smith.
Jim was born June 28, 1939, in Pleasant Hill. He graduated from Pleasant Hill High School and went on to earn a B.S. in Economics at Missouri Valley College.
Jim joined the United States Navy in 1959 and was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. He was in aviation and was so proud of the plane he flew, the LockheedP2V Neptune, which was used for maritime surveillance and sub hunting. He retired from the Navy in 1963, but stayed active in Naval Reserves.
Joining the Navy was one of his greatest accomplishments and he always said, “Serving your country should never feel like a responsibility, it should be revered as an honor.”
Jim married his beautiful wife, Mary Louise Hallar on June 21, 1963, in Latour. They shared a love of family, community, church fellowship, dancing and bridge. They had four daughters that they considered their biggest accomplishment in life.
They were married for 39 years, until her death Nov. 9, 2002. Jim was lucky enough to find true love twice and married Glendia Hatton-Hayes on July 24, 2005.
They shared a passion for cooking, sports cars, the ocean, business and their sweet dog, Mitzi.
Jim spent most of his career in banking and finance and was placed on many executive boards throughout the country.
After retiring from banking in 1994, he moved to Harrisonville, where he started a private investigation firm. He was a proud member of the National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI). He was certainly a jack of all trades and later went on to become an arbitrator for FINRA, specializing in securities disputes.
However, we hope that he will most be remembered for his servant’s heart. Jim always felt called to be an advocate for those that could not help themselves. He was passionate about helping the homeless population and believed it was part of his godly responsibility to hold cities accountable to providing care.
Jim was instrumental in developing a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, New Day Maryland, and served as VP from 2016 to 2019, when he moved to Beaufort.
Most recently, he spearheaded a group of businesses, churches and the community to help rebuild a home for a neighbor that was struggling in their community.
He said the relationships he made working on this project truly changed his life and renewed his faith in humanity.
Jim was certainly not a man that wanted “acquaintances” in his life. He forged relationships that were sincere, deep, enriching and long lasting. He loved spending time with his coffee buds and had incredible groups in every city he lived. Jim loved fiercely and treasured these friendships greatly, you became brothers, sons, uncles and mentors to him.
Jim was a true outdoorsman and enjoyed spending time with his sons-in-law and his grandchildren out in nature.
Whether he was dropping a line in a neighbor’s pond, fishing the Great Lakes, deep sea fishing with friends, hunting birds or just sitting around the deer campfire, you could be assured there were tall tales being spun, good food being served and lots and lots of laughter being shared.
He was loved by many and will be missed by all that were lucky enough to have known him.
Visitation with the family will be from 1 to 2:30 p.m., Jan. 30 at the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held directly following the visitation. The family will have a private graveside service at Orient Cemetery, Harrisonville.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to New Day Maryland, 329 Prince George St. Laurel, MD 20707.
Please sign the guestbook and share your favorite memory of Jim for the family.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Marjorie M. Irey
Sept. 21, 1927 – Jan. 21, 2022
Marjorie Maxine (Wade) Irey, Harrisonville, was born Sept. 21, 1927, in Hoxie, Kansas, the daughter of Sarah Frances (Baxter) Wade and Bryan Wesley Wade. She was the third child of six. She died Jan. 21 while recovering from a hip fracture caused by a fall in her apartment at Carnegie Village, Belton.
At 94 she attained the same age as her husband, George William Irey, who died Feb. 12, 2020. They were married March 25, 1946, in Kansas City.
Marjorie had many jobs throughout the years such as waitress in Leeds, where she met the love of her life, George, cafeteria worker in Kansas City and Belton schools, retail work at several different places including Tradex clothing store in Belton, Family Center In Harrisonville and the Hallmark store also in Harrisonville. In addition to those jobs, she cleaned houses and volunteered at Meals on Wheels in Garden City.
As an active and long-time member of the First Christian Church of Garden City, she enjoyed the sermons on Sunday and visiting with the other members.
Marjorie was a woman of many talents, sewing, quilting, embroidery, painting on canvas and wooden crafts, cooking and gardening. She enjoyed taking a long walk which was her main mode of transportation to many of her jobs in Kansas City and Belton. Since the family only had one car, she didn’t learn to drive until she was 42.
Marjorie was a kind, generous and warm-hearted person who went the extra mile to take care of her family and friends. She will be missed by all of us, but we are relieved that she is no longer suffering from the dreaded disease Alzheimer’s and physical pain. She can now enjoy time with her husband, parents and siblings in the life beyond. May you rest in peace. We will see you on the other side.
Besides her parents, Marjorie was preceded in death by her husband of 74 years, George; siblings, Helen Siegler, Robert Wade, Donald Wade, Ethel Walker and Shirley Russell; great-grandson, Ayden Carpenter; and son-in-law, Peter Gent.
Marjorie is survived by daughters, Dena Gent, Kansas City, and Georgia Carpenter and husband, Mike, Independence; son, Mike Irey and wife, Vicki, Overland Park, Kansas; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and the many other relatives and friends she made while attending church and working in her communities.
Cremation with private family services.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Children’s Mercy and may be sent in care of the Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, MO 64701.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Dennis A. Kroenke
Feb. 3, 1962 – Jan. 14, 2022
Dennis Allen Kroenke, 59, Freeman, died Jan. 14, 2022, at KU Medical Center. Dennis was born in Kansas City Feb. 3, 1962, the second son of Victor and Dorothy (Murnane) Kroenke.
Dennis graduated from O’Hara High School in 1980. He then furthered his education attending the UMKC School of Engineering and Electronics, receiving Associates Degrees in Engineering and Computer science in 1984.
Dennis was the president and founder of Kronco Consulting Co. Throughout his life, Dennis worked for many companies including, PDA, Sutherlands, House of Lloyd, Westfield Insurance, Hodges & Reed and Topco, among many others.
He settled in 1999 in his large home where many friends and family members were welcome at any time. Dennis was a very talented musician, able to play all different kinds of instruments, as well as sing. Dennis especially loved playing bass in the band, Stanley Freeman.
Throughout the years, Dennis had three canine companions, one after the other, whom he loved dearly and comically named each of them Abby.
Dennis is survived by his fiancée, Beth Vaughn; his parents; brothers, Mike Kroenke and Karen, Ronald Kroenke and David Kroenke; sisters, Lisa Sparks and Bill and Jennifer Boxx and Darrell; nephews, Tim; Matt and Julia; Jacob; Nathan; and Daniel; nieces, Emma, Lauren, Lucy and Katie; and grand-niece, Rosalie; many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, the entire Vaughn family and his dog, Abby.
Dennis’s passing leaves a hole in our hearts, but many happy memories will survive him.
A visitation was Jan. 19 at Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore. Funeral Mass was at St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Kansas City. A private family graveside service will be held at a later time at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Bates County.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore.
William Mickelberry
Dec. 23, 1951 – Jan. 15, 2022
William “Bill” E. Mickelberry, 70, Garden City, died Jan. 15 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born Dec. 23, 1951, in Lamar, a preemie, but grew into a tall good-looking guy.
Bill was the oldest of four siblings born to Billie Gene and Lawanda “June” (Carnagie) Mickelberry.
He was a great athlete in school, football and track being his sports. Bill had many work journeys in his life. After graduating from Sherwood High School in 1971, he went to work at the Kansas City Chiefs stadium, along with his dad and brother, Randy, in 1972.
He was also a police officer for a short time in Garden City.
Bill then worked many jobs, including driving their semi-truck along with his dad and Uncle Frank. He had also worked as a mechanic for John Deere in Butler with Randy and later at the Harrisonville dealership.
He also had worked for Deens Farm Equipment, Massey Ferguson machine shop and Tip-Top Plumbing. He worked at American Crane in Kansas City for the last 28 years, retiring in 2017. They really didn’t want him to retire, but his health wasn’t good.
Bill was such a big asset to this company and was really good at his job. His son, Westin, worked beside him at this job for a short time and was amazed at what his dad could do.
They lost Cherie Dec. 4, 1999, from a bad car accident. This was such a tragedy to the family. It wasn’t long after this, Bill found out he had heart problems from a birth defect. This was the beginning of his health issues.
Bill loved his children, and they were his pride and joy. He always made sure they had what they wanted. He loved to hunt and fish in his early days. He really enjoyed watching the Chiefs and was looking forward to watching them play toward the Super Bowl.
Bill spent a lot of hours playing his video games, which he enjoyed so much.
He also enjoyed holiday dinners with the family. He always went home with lots of leftovers.
Bill was preceded in death by his dad, Billie, on Feb. 6, 1991; and his mom, June, on Nov. 15, 2017; and his daughter, Cherie, on Dec. 4, 1999.He is survived by his loving son, Westin Mickelberry and Shana, Holden; a brother, Randy Mickelberry, Harrisonville; two sisters, Becky Miller and Chris and Sandy Cantrell and Gary, all of Garden City; his many nieces and nephews and greats, who loved him so much; one uncle; aunts; and several cousins. He will be missed and loved by many.
A celebration of life was Jan. 22 at the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Leonard L. Mills
July 25, 1940 – Jan. 13, 2022
With great sadness we, the family of Leonard Lee Mills, announce his death. Leonard lived a life full of integrity, intelligence, compassion and courage. Leonard, 81, died peacefully and well-loved in his home Jan. 13 in Garden City.
Throughout his life, Leonard loved gardening, traveling, working in his wood shop, attending sporting events, spending time with his family and most importantly loving his wife of 57 years, Verna Mills.
Leonard was preceded in death by his beautiful wife of 57 years, Verna Mills; his mother and father; sisters, Ann Grasher and Mary Brown; his brother, William Mills, Jr., and his beloved grandson, Jacob Mills.
While Leonard has departed this physical form, his life will live on through his family.
Leonard leaves behind five children, Brenda Mills, Jeff Mills and his wife Gayla, Tina Walton and husband Brian, Chrystal Kimbrough and husband Kendal and Johnna Mueller and husband Lance; four grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; a sister, Rachel Hale; three brothers, Theodore Mills, Roy Mills and Ronnie Mills; other relatives and many friends.
Leonard’s message to all those he loved dearly, “I will love you always; goodbye until we meet again.”
Funeral services were Jan. 21 at the Heart of Life Church, Garden City, with burial in the Garden City Cemetery.
The family suggests memorial contributions to the Leonard and Verna Mills Scholarship Foundation.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Gary A. Rea
Nov. 14, 1948 – Jan. 18, 2022
Gary Allen Rea, Garden City, was born Nov. 14, 1948, in Kansas City, the son of Earnest Allen and Norma Louise (Akins) Rea.
He died Jan. 18 at Golden Years Extended Care Center, Harrisonville, at the age of 73 years, 2 months and 4 days.
Jan. 11, 1969, Gary married Carol Jean King of Grandview. They raised two children, Scott Allen Rea and Crissy Jean (Rea) Gilvin. They were happily married for 53 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest on April 12, 2021, and Norma on March 10, 1987.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Rea, of the home; a son, Scott Rea, and a daughter, Crissy (Rea) Gilvin and husband, Mike, all of Garden City; two grandchildren, Mikalah Rea, Olathe, Kansas, and Grady Gilvin, Garden City; a sister, Vickie Mellott and friend, Jerry, Lee’s Summit; three sisters-in-law; and three brothers-in-law; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and a host of friends.
Gary grew up in Lee’s Summit. A year after graduating from Lee’s Summit High School in 1968, he joined the Army in 1969 and served for two years. After returning from his military service, he worked for Armco Steel for many years until they closed, then he worked nights for Stahl’s Specialty Company until he retired.
He loved working on the farm with the horses and cows. He adored his two grandchildren and would always babysit whenever needed, even if it meant staying up all day after working all night.
He also loved pheasant and quail hunting. He was always willing to help anybody if he could do it. He loved the Lord and was a member of the Rose Hill Baptist Church, Latour.
The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Jan. 29 at the Rose Hill Baptist Church, Latour.
celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m. Jan. 29 at the church. Cremation with inurnment in the Garden City Cemetery, Garden City, will be at a later date.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Virginia I. Rogers
July 22, 1929 – Jan. 18, 2022
Virginia Isabell Rogers, 92, Freeman, died Jan. 18 at her home. Virginia was born July 22, 1929, in Lincoln, Nebraska, the daughter of Clarence and Myrtle (Woodard) King.
She married Vernon “Jack” Rogers on Feb. 14, 1968, in Stigler, Oklahoma. Virginia had lived in Gladstone, Okmulgee, Oklahoma, and Chelsea, Oklahoma, before moving to Freeman in 1980.
She had worked as an office clerk for Sears at the Banister Mall store for 15 years, retiring in 2003. Virginia had been a Cub Scout leader in 1976 and 1977 in Oklahoma.
She had attended New Hope Baptist Church and the Harrisonville Community Church. Virginia enjoyed watching the KC Royals and the KC Chiefs, reading and watching the news. She also loved to garden and take care of her flowers.
Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack, on May 8, 2003; a brother, Merle King; and a sister, Rosalie Campbell.
She is survived by a son Rusty Rogers and Lisa, Freeman; a sister, Marian Howard, Freeman; and three grandchildren, Zachary Rogers, Wahiawa, Hawaii, Eddie Meinking and Sara, Flagler Beach, Florida, and Robbie Meinking and Ellen, Estes Park, Colorado.
Funeral services were Jan. 24 at the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville, with burial following in the Freeman Cemetery, Freeman.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Dennis Schmidt
Sept. 26, 1954 – Jan. 16, 2022
Dennis Schmidt, 67, Peculiar, died Jan. Dennis was born Sept. 26, 1954, in Axtell, Kansas, the son of Benedict W. and Katherine “Kay” Loob Schmidt.
Dennis and Gail were married 43 years on June 3. They enjoyed many trips together along with their lake lot at the Lake of the Ozarks.
Dennis owned his own surveying business for 15 years. Prior to that, Dennis worked for Logan and Associates, a civil engineering firm, in Liberty. Dennis was a licensed land surveyor in both Missouri and Kansas. He was a member of the Professional Land Surveyors Association.
He was a member of St. Sabina Catholic Parish.
Dennis was a skilled carpenter and built many furniture pieces for family members that will be forever cherished.
Dennis was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. His grandchildren were his world. His love for laughter and life will be cherished memories. He always was looking for a good prank to play on family and friends.
Family gatherings were his happy place. Family and friends could always count on Dennis, he would drop everything to be there for anyone. Our hearts are broken by the loss of Dennis. We are thankful for the love he brought and the many memories we have together until we see him again.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Daniel Schmidt.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Gail, of the home; a daughter, Meagan Embry and Brandon, and grandchildren, Breckin and Macie, Belton; a daughter, Stephanie VanHollebeke and Anthony and a grandchild, Ava, Las Vegas, Nevada; a brother, Charles Schmidt; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Keith and Gloria Barlow, Eads, Colorado; and many nieces and nephews.
A visitation is planned for 10 a.m. Jan. 28 at St. Sabina Catholic Parish, Belton.
A funeral mass will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Sabina. A private family inurnment will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations to St. Sabina Catholic Parish of Belton.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore.
Darrel G. Skeens
Aug. 17, 1934 – Jan. 18, 2022
Darrel G. Skeens, 87, Harrisonville, formerly of Peculiar, died Jan. 18 at Golden Years Care Center, Harrisonville. Darrel was born Aug. 17, 1934, in Wellsville, Kansas, the son of Lon M., Sr., and Alta E. (Conine) Skeens.
He grew up in Louisburg, Kansas, and was a 1948 graduate of Louisburg High School. Soon after graduation, he started working at Sheffield Steel in Kansas City and continued to work through two additional name changes, Armco Steel and GST, for 45 years until his retirement in 1997.
He married Laura E. Ridenour in September 1984. Darrel had lived in Raymore and Peculiar before moving to Harrisonville in 2019.
After his retirement, Darrel became a licensed real estate agent in the Raymore area. Darrel was a member of Grand River Masonic Lodge No. 276 in Freeman.
He enjoyed his horses, going to auctions, playing music and jam sessions.
But most of all, he enjoyed and loved his family. He was a Christian and believed in the Bible.
Darrel was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, John, Lon Jr., William, (an infant brother), and Jack Clayton; a sister, Nellie Caloway; and a daughter-in-law, Denise Skeens. He is survived by his wife, Laura Skeens, Harrisonville; three sons, Gary Skeens and Debbie Sylvester, Warsaw, Kevin Skeens, Peculiar, and Jay Petty and wife, Selena, Homosassa, Florida; a daughter, Brenda Diamond and husband, Leroy, Van Buren, Arkansas; a brother, Roger Skeens and wife, Sheila, Burnsville, Mississippi; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Darrel’s wish to everyone was “Remember the good times.”
No services are scheduled. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, 4400 Clayton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 or Ascend Hospice, 783 N.E. Anderson Lane, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.
Joyce A. Arnold
Sept. 18, 1935 – Jan. 16, 2022
Joyce Arlene Arnold, 86, Adrian, died Jan. 16. Joyce was born Sept. 18, 1935, in Butler, the daughter of Clarence J. and Opal A. (Giddens) Watts.
She married Thomas Raymond Arnold on July 16, 1951, in Adrian. To this union, seven children were born, along with an adopted daughter. She and Tom R. served as foster parents for many years. Joyce was a housewife and mother all her life. Loving, caring and sharing were just a few of her attributes.
She accepted Christ as her personal Savior in August 1957. She was a charter member of Calvary Baptist Church in Adrian where she served and attended faithfully until health issues hindered her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Thomas, Nov. 12, 2007; a brother, Dale Watts; three sons, Tom E., Lester and Phillip; a daughter, Susan Davis; a grandson, Thomas Jacob “TJ”; and two great-grandsons, Judah and Triston.
Joyce is survived by a son, John Arnold and wife, Debbie, Adrian; three daughters, Beverly Green, Passaic, Brenda Ortiz and husband, Pablo, Adrian; and Brenda Sue Arnold, of the home; 25 grandchildren; 48 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Clarence Watts, Qulin and Delbert Watts and wife, Marian, Adrian; son-in-law, Doug Davis; daughter-in-law, Pat Arnold; many nieces, nephews, family and friends. She will be greatly missed by all. To God be the glory.
Funeral services were Jan. 21 at the Calvary Baptist Church, Adrian, with burial following in Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Shepherds Ministries, 1805 15th Ave., Union Grove, WI 53182 or Heartland Hospice.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Adrian.
Gene K. Boone
Jan. 2, 1925 – Jan. 15, 2022
Gene Kemper Boone, 97, Belton, formerly of Butler, died Jan. 15 at Overland Park Regional, Overland Park, Kansas.
He was born Jan. 2, 1925, the son of William Felton Boone, Jr., and Bessie Adeline Kemper Boone in Farmington.
Gene, one of five children, grew up in Farmington and Charleston and graduated from Charleston High School.
On Aug. 24, 1948, he married Martha Lou McDowell and to this union three children were born.
Gene earned his bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University in 1953 and taught school in Golden Meadow, Louisiana, before moving to St. Louis in 1958 where he taught school for 20 years.
He moved to Butler in 1977 where he owned and operated the Nelson Motel until 1995. He also worked at Walmart in Butler for more than 20 years.
Gene served in World War II in the United States Army Air Force and honorably earned six bronze stars, the good conduct medal, three overseas service bars, the victory ribbon and was entitled to wear the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Campaign ribbon.
Gene was formerly a member of the Happy Hill Church of God in Butler, then he and daughter, Gwen, moved to Belton, in 2016 where he attended South Haven Baptist Church. Gene was saved at the age of 6 and was a life-long follower of Jesus Christ.
Gene was loving and kind, but had an amazing humorous side. He loved music, enjoyed football and spent hours reading the Bible and devotionals. He was never too busy to spend time with his children and grandchildren and knew having strong relationships meant spending time together.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Martha Boone; two brothers, Bob Boone and Dale Boone; and two sisters, Camille Chronister and Earline Grizzard.
Gene is survived by two daughters, Gwen Boone, Belton, and Jean Mohrman and husband, Lou, Hillsboro; a son, Kenneth Boone and wife, Barb, Urich; eight grandchildren, Dustin, Sarah, Joshua, Aaron, Gretchen, Melissa, Dale and Nicole; and eight great-grandchildren.
A cremation memorial service was Jan. 20 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler. Inurnment with military honors was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler.
Contributions are suggested to Happy Hill Church of God.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.
Kathleen R. Cumpton
Sept. 13, 1931 – Jan. 13, 2022
Kathleen Rose Cumpton, 90, Butler, died Jan. 13 at Medicalodge in Butler. She was born Sept. 13, 1931, the daughter of Rueben Harvey and Jesse Olive Fisher Shillinger in Spruce.
She was a life-long member of the Baptist Church.
Kathleen grew up in Spruce and graduated from Ballard High School in 1950. She furthered her education by attending business college.
Feb. 3, 1951, she married Ray Cumpton. Over the years she was employed at Kansas City Life, The University of Missouri Extension and spent the last 30 years of her working life at the First Baptist Church of Butler.
An unfortunate accident forced her retirement and she subsequently spent the remaining three years of her life at Medicalodge.
Although Ray and Kathleen had no children, their life was far from mundane. They enjoyed many adventures together including their passion for collectibles and heirlooms. Whether they were rummaging for gadgets and trinkets at Wall Drug in South Dakota or trying to buy all the Frankoma pottery in Oklahoma.
They shared many common interests including their love for their God, their love of country, family and their community. You could always be assured that when the call for help went out, they would be involved in a positive way.
We said goodbye to Ray years ago and now we say goodbye to you Kathleen. Congratulations on a life well lived and may you rest in peace.
She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Ray Cumpton Kathleen is survived by her sister-in-law, Faye Hunt, Butler; and nine nieces and nephews.
Graveside services and interment were Jan. 20 at Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler.
Contributions are suggested to Heartland Hospice.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.
Larry P. Davis
Jan. 26, 1947 – Jan. 16, 2022
Larry Paul Davis, 74, was born Jan. 26, 1947, in rural Appleton City, the son of Paul and Katherine Virginia (Miller) Davis. Larry died Jan. 16 surrounded by his loving family.
Larry and his wife, Roni, owned Davis Construction.
For many years they traveled working construction in many states. They lived mainly in Stanley, Kansas, while working construction around the surrounding area.
While living in Stanley, they started building their home in rural Appleton City. This took several years to finish as they were working full time and only able to work on it on weekends. They also owned and operated an antique shop, as well as a restaurant in Appleton City.
All through Larry’s younger years, he had a passion for working on cars. As he got older, his passion turned to collecting and working on classic cars. Larry and Roni spent many happy days at car shows and swap meets throughout the years.
Larry was preceded in death by his wife, Roni; his parents, Paul Davis and Katherine McClure; a great-grandchild, Jamarion Sheppard; a sister, Sharon Kay Davis; and a brother, Jackie Dale Davis.
Survivors include two daughters, Tammy Davis and Traci Thompson-Huber; six grandchildren, Alexis, Brittany and Sandy Smiley, Heather and Ryan Woodall, Samantha and Estevan Maturino and Dakotah Thompson; seven great-grandchildren, Corbyn and Paisley Woodall, Chloe and Prudence Maturino, Cameron Cessant, Malakai and Manlani Smiley; five siblings, Darlene Houk, Bonnie and Alan Newell, Dennis and Robin McClure, Randy and Diane McClure and Ricky McClure; many extended family members and dear friends. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.
Funeral services were Jan. 22 at Hill & Son Funeral Home, Appleton City, with Elder Kevin Munsterman officiating.
Burial was in White Oak Cemetery, Urich. Memorial donations are suggested to White Oak Cemetery.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Hill & Son Funeral Home, Appleton City.
Robert J. Giacone
May 21, 1954 – Jan. 17, 2022
Robert “Bobby” James Giacone, 67, Butler, died Jan. 17 at Centerpoint Hospital, Independence. He was born May 21, 1954, the son of Benedict Vincent and Florence Louise Cotter Giacone in Kansas City.
Bobby, one of four children, was a lifelong resident of Butler. He graduated from Butler High School in 1973.
In his early years, he worked for the Lens Plant in Butler until its closing in 1979.
Bobby then worked as a machine operator for Thorco Manufacturing and Mr. Longarm, both in Butler.
Bobby was likable, but sometimes moody. His enjoyments included judging barbecue, vegetable gardening and spending time with his nephews and nieces. He always liked hanging out with “Zellmer” and Junior. You could see them most of the time sitting on the driveway, shooting the breeze and sometimes even enjoying a cold beverage.
Bobby could always count on Diane for a ride or just an ear to listen. He always loved when Sara would bring him food to eat. On the holidays at Francie and Larry’s, he always brought his own containers to take home extras. Bobby loved to eat.
Bobby would always call Francie after he had talked to his brother, Johnny. He would say “Have you talked to your brother?” Then he would say “I’ve been on the phone with him for over an hour. Boy, can he talk.”
Bobby enjoyed helping Rufus and Zellmer get the garden ready and later enjoyed the profits. He was always proud and would show and share what they had grown. He will be missed by all of his friends at “The Alley.”
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Vincent Giacone; and a nephew, Chad Scott.
Bobby is survived by his brother, John Giacone and wife, Joyce, Belton; a sister, Francie Scott and husband, Larry, Butler; and nephews and nieces.
Bobby’s wishes were to be cremated. No public services are planned at this time. Inurnment will be at a later date in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.
Roy A. McGuire
Oct. 21, 1956 – Jan. 14, 2022
Roy Allen McGuire, 65, Rich Hill, died Jan. 14 at Research Medical Center, Kansas City. He was born Oct. 21, 1956, the son of Dewey and Nelda Lee Jones McGuire in Galveston, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Nelda Lee McGuire; and brother, Terry McGuire.
Roy is survived by three daughters, Amy, Emily and Megan; his father, Dewey McGuire, Butler; two brothers, Gary McGuire and wife, Rachelle, Canada and Dewey Lee McGuire and wife, Cheryl, Cleveland; two sisters, Linda Christopher and husband, Robert, Butler, and Julie Conrad, Rich Hill; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A visitation was Jan. 21 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel. Inurnment will be at a later date in Virginia Cemetery, Virginia.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.
Jesse L. Short
May 27, 1940 – Jan. 14, 2022
Jesse Lee Short, 81, Amoret, died Jan. 14 at Bates County Memorial Hospital, Butler. Jesse Lee Short was born May 27, 1940, in Amoret, the son of John Henry and Alice Mae Lynch Short.
He grew up in the Amoret area and attended school there until the eighth grade after which he attended Miami High School.
After graduation, Jesse joined the United States Army and served abroad from 1959 to 1962.
He married Donna Leuty on Aug. 27, 1965, and they were blessed with two daughters.
For many years, Jesse was employed at the Leeds GM plant until his retirement in 1991. He also spent time working for Don Ghere at the sale barn in Butler. He had a love for horses and enjoyed raising and training them over the years.
Jesse also loved driving his race car, which he did until 2004. When Jesse Lee wasn’t working or racing, he could often be found attending sales or enjoying a cup of coffee and conversation at the Amsterdam Cafe.
Jesse was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Donna Short; a sister Alice Faye Thornton; and a brother David Short.
He is survived by his daughters, Julie Bisnett and Karla Short; his siblings, John Short, Jim Short, Betty Irwin, Jerry Short, Connie Cox, Sharon Scrogham and Ed Short; grandchildren, Hailee Waller and Brenden McDonald; along with two step-children; many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Cremation, with memorial graveside services to be at 1 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Benjamin Cemetery, Amoret. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Benjamin Cemetery or the Amoret Community Center.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler.
Wanda L. Taute
April 17, 1934 – Jan. 14, 2022
Wanda Lee Houston Taute, 87, Butler, died Jan. 14 at her home. She was surrounded by her family. Wanda was born April 17, 1934, in Mountain View, the daughter of Fred Houston and Lorene (Taber) Houston.
She moved from Mountain View to Butler and worked as a waitress. When her lifelong friend, Alice Triplett McGuire, graduated from high school they moved to Kansas City. Wanda worked at Sears and Hallmark while living in Kansas City.
On the weekends they would often come to Butler and stay with Wanda’s sisters. That is how she met her husband, Elmer John Taute. They were married for 63 years and had two children, John Curtis and Pam.
Wanda babysat for children in her home for a time. She loved any opportunity to spend time with children and spoiling them as much as she could, especially her grandchildren.
When John retired, they joined the Mo-showme camping club. They were members for more than 20 years. With this group they traveled to many different places. They wintered in Texas and Arizona with friends from the club.
Wanda loved getting out of the cold for the winter, but was always ready to get back home to her family. The bond that she had with her sisters was extremely strong. They have set an example of how family takes care of each other that has changed anyone that knows them. That love of family also included her best friend, Alice McGuire. For several years Wanda and Alice walked through Butler every morning and would often end with coffee and breakfast at Koehn’s Bakery or McDonald’s.
Wanda will always be remembered for her willingness to help others. She never wanted anyone to be concerned about her, but always put the focus on taking care of everyone else. During the past year and a half, Parkinson’s had made it very hard for her to get out and do things for herself. This was devastating for her, but she still tried not to complain.
Throughout this last year and a half, she had the help of some amazing people, Kathy, Barbie, Sharon and Melissa, showed so much compassion and love and without their help she wouldn’t have been able to stay home. The staff of St. Croix Hospice was a blessing to her as well.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer John Taute; parents, Fred Houston, and Lorene and Archie Evins; sisters, Florence Webb and Freda Morgan; brothers-in-law, Jesse Thompson, Arvin Webb, Arthur Lee Jones and Harold Sliffe; nephews, Duane Webb, Danny Thompson, Doug Thompson and Mike Jones.
Survivors include her son, John Taute, Butler; daughter and son-in-law, Pam and Dan Sbisa, Blue Springs; grandchildren Thomas Sbisa, Blue Springs, and Rachel and Brenton Caruthers, Phoenix, Arizona; sisters, Dora Thompson, Springfield, and Susie and Vernon Gore, Mountain View; sister-in-law, Fern Sliffe, Butler; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Verle and Grace Taute, Amoret; brother-in-law, Harold Morgan, Butler; her lifelong friend, Alice McGuire; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
The family wants to thank everyone who supported and cared for Wanda throughout this past year. There are no words that can express how much we appreciate each of you.
Private family graveside services will be held in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler. A public memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Croix Hospice or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler.
Roger A. Wainscott
June 29, 1963 – Jan. 20, 2022
Roger Allen Wainscott, 58, Ballard, died Jan. 20 at Kindred Hospital, Kansas City. He was born June 29, 1963, the son of Larry Arthur and Rose Marie Rotert Wainscott in Butler.
He was preceded in death by his father, Larry Wainscott; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Gordon and Mary Jayne Graham.
Roger is survived by his wife of 37 years, Lori Wainscott, Ballard; a son, Graham Wainscott, Ballard; two daughters, Timber Stiles and husband, Nicholas, Ballard, and Sheena Wainscott, Clinton; his mother, Rose Harris, Butler; two brothers, Rick Wainscott and wife, Misty, Adrian, and Tim Wainscott, Montrose; a sister, Tina Simmons, Butler; and three grandchildren, Emmett, Kaylee and Willow.
Funeral services were Jan. 26 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.
Interment was in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Ballard. Contributions are suggested to the Walnut Grove Cemetery.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.
