Obituaries

Ruth E. Gilliland
Aug. 3, 1939 – Feb. 1, 2022

Ruth Esther Gilliland York died Feb. 1, at the age of 82 years, 5 months and 29 days. She was born on Aug. 3, 1939, the youngest daughter of Lela Viola Gatewood Gilliland Brooner and Leland Gilliland.

Ruth was born on a farm in Cherokee County, Kansas near Columbus, Kansas.

Ruth lived there on the farm and graduated from Riverton High School in 1957.

She knew even then she wanted to be a teacher so she worked hard to save her money so she could attend and graduate from Southwest Baptist College with an Associate of Arts Degree in 1961.

After graduation, she moved to Archie where she began her long teaching career.

She taught in a small one-room schoolhouse in Main City from 1961 to 1963.

She had many fond memories of time there teaching the first- through eighth grade classes. Main City School then consolidated with Archie in 1964 and she began teaching in the Archie Public School system.

Ruth went on to receive her Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Education from Central Missouri State College in 1967.

Ruth was very active in the Missouri State Teachers Association. She continued to take classes at CMSU throughout the years and she served as a math and science mentor at the college, she worked in the college science fairs.

While teaching in Archie, she worked with the PTA, student ambassadors and she hosted many clubs at school. Ruth retired from the Archie School system in 1995.

However, she continued to be a substitute teacher for another eight years.

She estimated she was able to teach approximately 800 children during her long career. When asked what she had learned from the children, she said “patience” and the “importance of giving lots of praise.” Those ideas followed her all her life.

Shortly after arriving in the Archie community, Ruth began attending and joined the First Baptist Church of Archie.

It was there she caught the eye of the church Sunday school superintendent, Richard York.

He would find reasons to come to visit her to drop off the newest church literature. She repeatedly tried to brush him off when he would come to her home and on many occasions told him she was not interested in dating because her plan was to be an “old spinster school marm” devoted to her students only.

However, her plan did not work out as Ruth married Richard York on Aug. 11, This union was blessed with two children, a daughter, Amy Ruth York Eatherton, and a son, Thomas Monroe York, III.

Ruth began each day with her Bible and time with the Lord. She kept her family in her daily prayers. She enjoyed singing in the church choir and was the assistant church organist for more than 40 years.

She participated in Women’s Missionary Union and served as the association WMU director for many years, she taught Girls in Action, children’s Sunday school and at Kamp Keirsy during the summers cooking and as a counselor, she looked forward to VBS each summer.

Ruth enjoyed sewing and playing the piano and while not a fisherman at heart she learned to love fishing so she could spend time with her husband and children at Roaring River. She had so many good memories of time spent there camping with family and friends.

She also loved spending time with her sorority sisters of the Beta Sigma Phi, Xi Iota chapter, where she held many offices. She loved to travel in general.

But in later years she came to enjoy doing genealogy with her husband, searching the Gilliland and Gatewood family history.

She always looked forward to going to family reunions to catch up on her extended family’s lives. After she retired from education, she joined the Cass County Retired Teachers Association. She was always a child advocate and started working with the Hugs Not Drugs program. She spent many years going to schools across Missouri to speak to children about the dangers of drug use.

Ruth also loved history and she really enjoyed going with her husband to help him with his Sons of the American Revolution program. They took replica revolutionary flags to multiple schools throughout the state. Richard would dress in Continental period costume and Ruth in her patriotic vest, she would hold up each of the many flags used during the revolution and he would discuss the meaning of each flag and teach about who fought under what flag.

This presentation also pointed out the changes that our national flag went through, as new states entered the Union.

They both loved the children and answered their questions on both the respect and proper care of the American flag. Then together they would close the presentation by giving the children a miniature American flag to take home.

Ruth joined Missourians on Missions, with her husband. They would travel to various states to repair, remodel or build new church buildings. She especially enjoyed when her grandchildren would go with them on these trips. Ruth enjoyed preparing meals, carrying water and snacks to the men as they labored.

They also traveled on many church and missions trips to do backyard Bible clubs. She never grew tired of telling a child why Jesus loved them.

Richard and Ruth celebrated their 40th anniversary in 2003 before his death the following year. Ruth missed him terribly, but she persevered and threw herself into missions and serving others.

In summers you would find her passing out a cup of water in Jesus name at the county fair. She would offer to drive shut-ins to doctor appointments. She continued to go to Missourians on Missions with her daughter, Amy, and son-in-law, Don. She cooked food for tornado relief workers and if anyone had a need she would try to fill it.

Ruth loved to read stories to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She looked forward to overnight slumber parties with the grandchildren. She always had an Uno card game handy. She would play the piano and sing with her family.

She never grew tired of cooking and hosting friends and family. She enjoyed traveling with Amy and Don to see her family in later years. She was so delighted when Jacob moved to the farm, he brought her great joy and comfort.

Ruth also enjoyed the company of her adopted daughter, Maribeth Ryan, of Overland Park, Kansas.

Ruth struggled after her stroke in 2018 and she modeled and taught patience, grace and acceptance as she faced her new disability. She will be greatly missed by her children, but they rejoice that she is now free from the prison her body became.

Ruth York was preceded in death by her parents, Leland Gilliland and Lela “Viola” Gilland Brooner; her step-father, Jesse Brooner; a brother, Richard Gilliland; a brother-in-law, Ken Weston; a step-brother, Glenn Brooner and wife, Cordell; step-sister, Mabel Wigton and husband, Albert; step-sister, Mildred Wigton and husband, Orville; step-sister, Mary Aileen Ford and husband, C.J.; step-sister Doris Phillips and husband, Harlan; step-brother Howard Brooner and wife, Shirley; step-brother, Newel Brooner and wife, Mary; and a step brother-in-law, Charles Shanks; a brother -in-law, James York and wife, June; sister-in-law, Mildred Jean and husband, Harold Sliffe; and brother-in-law, Jack Graim.

She is survived by a sister Mary Weston; a sister-in-law, Sharon Gilliland; a step-sister, Jewell Shanks; two children, Amy Ruth Eatherton and husband, Donald, and retired TSgt. Thomas Monroe York, III, all of Archie; five grandchildren, Amanda Horton and husband Chris, Springfield, Adrienne Grimes and husband Steve, Springfield, Courtney Ruth York, Medina, Ohio, Thomas Monroe York, IV, and his fiancée, Kayla, Harrisonville, Abigail York, London, England; Jacob Gilliland, a great-nephew, Archie; and three greatgrandchildren, Julian Eatherton, Finnigan Grimes and Arlen Horton; many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Feb. 12 at the First Baptist Church, 302 S. Missouri St., Archie, with burial in the Crescent Hill Cemetery near Adrian. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m., Feb. 11 at the church.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Kamp Keirsey, Amsterdam.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.

Gary C. Hackett
May 1, 1945 – Jan. 26, 2022

Gary Clayton Hackett, 76, Kingsville, died Jan. 26 at Western Missouri Medical Center, Warrensburg, surrounded by his loving family. Gary was born May 1, 1945, on a farm near Holden, the son of Charles Clayton and Lucille Francis (Brown) Hackett.

When he was very young, Gary’s family moved to the Independence area where he spent his childhood and teenage years.

Gary was a 1963 graduate of Blue Springs High School. After high school, Gary worked for his uncle Robert Brown doing construction work and drove a truck for Lay Right Floor Co. in Kansas City.

On Aug. 8, 1964, Gary married Mary Ann Smith in Raytown. To this union God graciously granted five children, all of whom were the answers to his prayers.

In August 1965, Gary and Mary moved to the farm in Kingsville where with the exception of a brief time in the United States Army, he lived and farmed there the rest of his life. In 1993 Gary took an off-the-farm job driving a truck for Gilcrest Equipment in Holden and later formed Hackett Trucking before officially retiring from the trucking industry.

As a young child, Gary gave his life to the Lord and became a true ambassador for Christ. Gary was fearlessly unashamed of the gospel and spread the good news of Jesus Christ everywhere he went. Gary’s dedication to serving Christ in the church is what was foremost in his life. It came before his family, before farming, before pleasure and before wealth.

Gary was a lifelong member of Grace Pentecostal Church where he worked with the youth and young adults, directed singing and band and taught Sunday school for many years before taking on the role of pastor.

Everyone who knew Gary knew of his love of music. He would sing or play his trumpet in front of crowds or sing Sunday school songs with the children in the church basement while playing toy instruments. It was all the same to him, a desire to worship the Lord in song.

Gary loved people. He never met a stranger. He loved to talk and would visit with people for hours. He loved to reminisce and tell stories. He loved to gather around the piano and sing or play his trumpet. He loved the farm, he loved his family and friends. He loved his children and grandchildren.

But most of all he loved the Lord. The joy of the Lord was obvious in Gary and he served the Lord with gladness.

Gary was preceded in death by his loving wife of 57 years, Mary; his parents; a sister, Charlene Aldrich; and seven grandchildren who were born into the loving arms of Jesus.

Gary is survived by his children, Gail and Daniel Denney, Centerview; Susie and Darren Doll, Urich; Ellie and Levi Rushly, Harrisonville; Nate and Troi, Kingsville; Esther and Josh Heaper, Garden City; 18 grandchildren, Dakota and McKenzie, Tyler, Annika and Abbigail Denney, Dausha, Rebecca, Dallas and Dalton Doll, Seth, Laith, Trenton and Cole Rushly, Lane, Landon, Layton, Lason, Lexi, Landry and Liberty Heaper; two great-grandchildren, Emmilynn and Avary Denney; brothers C.F. Hackett and David Hackett.

There was a conjoined funeral service for Gary and Mary Feb. 7 at Grace Pentecostal Church, north of Kingsville and Pastor Tom Marlow officiated. Interment followed in Duncan Cemetery, south of Kingsville.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Williams Funeral Chapel in Holden.

Bruce L. Kagarice
Feb. 27, 1962 – Feb. 2, 2022

Bruce Lane Kagarice, 59, Garden City, died Feb. 2 at his home. Bruce was born Feb. 27, 1962, in Harrisonville, the son of Jack and Wanda (Taylor) Kagarice.

Bruce attended Lone Tree School and graduated from Harrisonville High School with the class of 1980.

Bruce met the love of his life, Kathleen, in1998 and when they married July 10, 1999, he also gained two sons, Christopher and Nicholas.

Bruce had worked for Shamrock Cabinet and Fixtures, Raytown, since 1999. In his free time, Bruce enjoyed woodworking, all outdoor activities, camping, traveling, watching the Kansas City Chiefs and grilling and smoking food for the family gatherings.

Last, but not least, he obsessed over his three granddaughters who were tightly wrapped around his finger.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Wanda Kagarice; a sister, Phyllis; and father and mother-in-law, Robert and Betty Hatfield.

He is survived by his wife, Kathleen, of the home; sons, Christopher Tye and wife, Angela, and Nicholas Tye and wife, Heather, all of Harrisonville; his three granddaughters, Madisyn, Ava and Harper; sister, Sandra Morris, Harrisonville; brothers, Larry Kagarice and Dawn and Jack Kagarice and Donna, all of Latour; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.

Nina F. Kemper
Sept. 11, 1940 – Jan. 30, 2022

Nina Kemper, 81, formerly of Freeman, died Jan. 30 at Kansas City Hospice House, Kansas City. Nina was born Sept. 11, 1940, in Indianola, Iowa, the daughter of Harold Brown and Mary (Bever) Brown.

She graduated from Milo High School in 1958 and attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, where she met her husband, Norvell.

Nina and Norvell were married May 21, 1960. The couple moved to Freeman in 1968 where they raised their family and resided until 2016, when they moved to Leawood, Kansas.

Nina worked as a typist for Richards Gebaur Air Force Base in Kansas City and the Dinner Bell Restaurant in Harrisonville, yet it’s her years with Walmart for which she is best known.

Nina was a founding associate of the Harrisonville Walmart when it opened its doors in 1975. During her 25-year career, she took on multiple responsibilities and became acquainted with many in the community. She’ll especially be remembered for helping many high school students get their first job.

Nina was an amazing wife, sister, mother, grandmother, friend, neighbor and community member. She’ll be remembered fondly for her generosity and kindness to others.

Birthdays were important to Nina and she was well known for baking her famous brownies or other sweet treats for coworkers’ and friends’ birthdays. She liked to keep in touch with her many friends through phone calls, cards, social media, etc.

She never missed her high school reunions and looked forward to the Walmart retiree lunches with her former coworkers.
Nina was actively involved in the Freeman community. She spent much of her time volunteering at the Freeman Presbyterian Church and the Freeman Community Club serving in many capacities. Every Sunday, she mailed bulletins to church members unable to attend the service and for those who were homebound, she would record the service.

At the Community Club breakfasts or Freeman Homecoming dinners, she would be one of the first faces to greet you. She always made others feel special, welcoming acquaintances into her home for a meal or a cup of coffee.

Nina also gave her time to the students of Cass-Midway and followed many throughout their school years, including attendance at sporting events and performances.

Her husband, Norvell, referred to Nina as a celebrity, as it didn’t matter where she went, someone would always come up and say hello. It’s that celebrity status that led to the many invitations she received to celebrate life’s special moments. Every inch of her refrigerator was covered in photos and memories from such events.

Family meant everything to Nina. She was very supportive of her grandchildren’s interests, attending wrestling meets, baseball and softball games, dance recitals and band and orchestra performances.

Grandma loved to spoil her grandchildren by taking them shopping or sneaking them money thinking that parents were unaware. Her family will miss the holiday meals, especially her brisket (better than any KC BBQ joint), meatballs, cheesy vegetable casserole and homemade desserts.

Nina had health issues throughout her life, yet it never stopped her from living life to the fullest. She was always upbeat and positive, putting the needs of others before herself.

Nina was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her husband, Norvell Kemper, of the home; her daughters, Kim Allnutt and Dan, Warrensburg, and Kay Buck and Greg, Leawood; four grandchildren, Daniel, Jared and Abby Allnutt and Gabrielle Buck; two sisters, Ellen Derrough, Des Moines, Iowa, and Lorna Kauzlarich, Ames, Iowa; a brother, Dwight Brown, VanMeter, Iowa; and countless other beloved family members, including the adopted ones within the Freeman and Harrisonville community.

A private family burial took place at the Freeman Cemetery. There will be a celebration of life for Nina at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you follow Nina’s lead and pay it forward by donating to a charity of your choice, calling a friend or sending a card to brighten someone’s day.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.

Jimmy Ross Knight
June 26, 1943 – Feb. 2, 2022

Jimmy Ross Knight, 78, Peculiar, died Feb. 2 at Redwood of Raymore, Raymore.

Jimmy was born June 26, 1943 in Browning, the son of Harold Ross and Lenore E. (Tully) Knight. He spent his early years in Browning and was a graduate of Liberty High School in Browning.

After graduation, he attended automotive trade school in Kansas City and started his first body shop in Browning. After moving to the Kansas City area, he worked for Belger Cartage Services for a number of years and in the late 1960s he moved to Peculiar.

Always looking for an opportunity, Jimmy started Knight’s Auto Body then added Knight’s Tow Service, Knight’s Car Wash and Knight’s Mini Storage.

Jimmy loved to socialize and could do just about anything. he was a well-known “wheeler and dealer” in the Peculiar area. Jimmy is preceded in death by his parents; his wife/significant other, Terri; one brother, Douglas Neil Knight; and a sister, Jennifer Ann Belzer.

He is survived by his children, Todd (Tracie) Knight, Belton; Tim Knight, Ft. Laurderdale, Florida; Tonya Knight, Independence, Jaimee (Ricky) Cowan, Archie; four grandchildren, Trevor, Malachi, Ashton and Gavin; and his sister, Jean Knight Page, Milan.

Services were Feb. 9 at the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.

Donnie D. Reynolds
July 11, 1935 – Feb. 3, 2022

Donnie Dean Reynolds, 86, Harrisonville, died peacefully at the home of her daughter in Independence on Feb. 3. Donnie was born July 11, 1935, in Stockton, the daughter of John Bert and Louis Lois (Curtis) Gordon.

She was a graduate of El DoradoSprings High School. Donnie married Jess Reynolds on Nov. 8, 1952, in El Dorado Springs. They moved to Independence in 1968, where they lived until moving to Harrisonville.

Donnie was baptized in 1961 with her 8-year-old son, Dennis, into the RLDS Church in Independence. She served many roles at her church, Skylark and Oriole leader (girls programs); women’s director and young adult leader with her husband.

She was a room mother for all five children throughout the years, all while working for the Harrisonville Schools, driving a school bus from 1975 to 2006, when she retired.

Donnie was preceded in death by her parents, Bert and Lois Gordon; her husband, Jess “Tubby” Reynolds on Jan. 31, 2022; two sons, Dennis Dean Reynolds and Thad Matthew Reynolds; four sisters, Flossie Byerly, Dorothy Reed, Alice Slichenmeyer and Mabel Gordon; and two brothers, Pete Gordon and John Gordon.

Donnie is survived by a son, John “Chad” Harrison Reynolds and Andrea, Harrisonville; two daughters, Jessica Maday, Independence, and Tracy Morelock and Eric, Benson, Arizona; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren and one on the way.

Funeral services for Donnie and Jess were Feb. 5 at the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville. Graveside services were Feb. 5 at the Coal Hill Cemetery, El Dorado Springs. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Coal Hill Cemetery, in care of the funeral home.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.

Jess H. Reynolds
Jan. 27, 1934 – Jan. 31, 2022

Jess “Tubby” Harrison Reynolds, 88, Harrisonville, died Jan. 31 at his daughter’s home in Independence. Jess was born Jan. 27, 1934, in El Dorado Springs, the son of Harrison Wilbur and Elsie Marie (Blystone) Reynolds.

He grew up in El Dorado Springs and was a 1952 graduate and class president of El Dorado Springs High School.

Jess married Donnie Dean Gordon on Nov. 8, 1952, in El Dorado Springs. They lived in Independence before moving to Harrisonville in 1968.

Jess was a journeyman wireman and had worked for Mackay Electric, Kansas City, for 34 years. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 124 for 43 years.

After retiring, Jess enjoyed being a substitute bus driver, especially for band trips, until he retired from that at 71.

Jess was baptized into the RLDS Church in Coal Hill in 1946 and was currently a member and elder of the Harrisonville Community of Christ Church.

He was the church financial officer from 1970 to 1999.

He served as a Boy Scout leader and was an Honorary Warrior of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Jess had served on the board of Water District No. 4 from 1986 to 2015.

Jess was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Dennis Dean Reynolds and Thad Matthew Reynolds; a sister, Wanda Biddlecom; and a brother, Bill Reynolds.

He is survived by his wife, Donnie, of the home; a son, John “Chad” Harrison Reynolds and Andrea, Harrisonville; two daughters, Jessica Maday, Independence, and Tracy Morelock and Eric, Benson, Arizona; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren and one on the way.

Funeral services were Feb. 5 at the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.

Graveside services were Feb. 5 at the Coal Hill Cemetery, El Dorado Springs.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Coal Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville.

Janette C. Clifton
June 15, 1970 – Jan. 30, 2022

Janette Christine “Christy” Clifton, 51, Adrian, died Jan. 30 at MedicaLodge of Butler in Butler. Christy was born June 15, 1970, the daughter of John and Marge Clifton of Adrian.

She started kindergarten in Adrian and transferred to Passaic State School. After its closing, she finished her education at the Harrisonville State School where she graduated at the age of 21.

After graduating, she began working at Casco Area Workshop in Harrisonville and later went to work at Bates County Industries where she was currently employed.

We were so blessed, Willow Creek Group Home provided transportation for Christy to work and numerous other activities she attended with the Willow Creek ladies. Christy enjoyed being with her Willow Creek friends and loved going to work.

Christy attended the Adrian Christian Church her entire life and was baptized July 4, 1999. She loved her family and friends, watching Chiefs football and attending Adrian School sports to watch her nieces and nephews.

Christy is survived by her mother, Marge Clifton, of the home; Danny and Sandy Clifton, Drexel; Patti Clifton, John and Pam Clifton and Kim and Gerald Shaffer, all of Adrian; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were Feb. 4 at the Adrian Christian Church, Adrian. Burial was in Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian. In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested to the Adrian Christian Church.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Atkinson Funeral Home, Adrian.

Stanley K. Cox
March 30, 1931 – Feb, 3, 2022

Stanley Keith Cox, 90, Independence, former of Pittsville and Odessa, died Feb. 3 at this home.

Stanley was born March 30, 1931, in Independence, the son of Hollis Cox and Nellie Mae (Sandage) Cox.

He graduated from William Chrisman High School in Independence and then enlisted in the United States Air Force.

He married Marie Katherine Bircher on May 28, 1955, in Parsons, Kansas. The couple made their home north of Odessa for 18 years. In 1991, they moved to Pittsville. Stanley had resided in Independence for the past 12 years.

He was a sheet metal worker with TWA Airline for several years. In 1957, he graduated from Bethesda Bible Institute in Portland, Oregon. He pastored at Grace Pentecostal Church in Stillwater, Kansas, for several years.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years in 2016, Marie; two daughters, Rose Marie Hackett and Dora Mae Brown; and son, Ira “Sanford” Johnson.

Survivors include his sister, Lora LaBayan and Henry, Kansas City; a brother: Danny Cox and Shari, Butler; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Feb. 11 at Williams Funeral Chapel, Holden with David Allen Hackett, Stanley’s eldest grandson, officiating. Interment will follow at Pisgah Cemetery, north of Chilhowee. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service at the funeral home.

Pallbearers are David Hackett, Mark Hackett, Jerry Hackett, Steve Hackett, Rob Hackett and Jeff Weaver.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Williams Funeral Chapel, Holden.

Sandra L. Dykes
Aug. 4, 1937 – Jan. 29, 2022

Sandra Lee Nash Moore Dykes, 84, Adrian, was born Aug. 4, 1937, and died Jan. 29, 2022. Sandy was born Patracia Ann at birth. She was adopted by Anna and Frank Lee Nash.

After the death of Frank Lee, she was given a second father in Earl J. Trisler.

She was blessed to also be given a sister and best friend, Joanne. She grew up in many places including Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas.

She attended Indian Creek Elementary and graduated from Shawnee Mission High School.

She fell in love with the greatest love of her life, the wild man on a motorcycle, James Larry Moore. They got married and had two children of their own, Kimberlee Ann and Kevin Allen.

With all of the love they had and respect for the adoption and fostering process, they decided to also foster children. They chose to raise their children in Ruskin Heights in Kansas City.

She held a full-time job as an office manager for Midwest Refrigeration.

They were also apartment building managers. Sandy and Jim created a country gospel band with their friends.

After the children were grown, Jim and Sandy moved to Adrian to start a farm.

Sandy was active in country life and the Altona Baptist Church. She always looked forward to VBS and was the church song leader for many years. She loved her time with the ladies group and the friendships that were made from the group.

Sandy’s home was always open to her loved ones, from family that needed a place to stay, to family and friends that were visiting from out of state, to the grandchild with middle-child syndrome, but only lived 100 feet away, everyone was welcome and even given a room to stay in.

After retirement, Sandy and Jim opened Pretty in Pink, a ceramic and porcelain doll shop. They also participated in many craft fairs. The grandchildren loved to go help work the booth and she made sure they knew how much she loved having them there. Her love had always been art.

From sewing to painting on canvas, saw blades, signs, mirrors and windows and anything she could get the paint to stick on, all the way to the ceramics and dolls.

She loved music, she was able to play many instruments most notably the guitar and omni chord, even though she was never able to read a note of music. She had the gift, she played from ear and memory.

After the death of her best friend, her sister Joanne, and the death of her husband, she married James Dykes. They moved to Texas for a few years to spend time with their loving Texas family before returning to Adrian and buying a house together.

She greatly enjoyed her family and visits from family and friends.

Sandy died at Meadow View nursing home in Harrisonville with the support of St. Croix Hospice.

She was preceded in death by her parents Anna Trisler, Frank Nash and Earl Trisler; her sister, Joanne Dykes; and both husbands, James “Jim” Moore and James Dykes.

Sandy will continue to be loved and missed by her children, daughter Kimberlee and Ed Schoor, Adrian, their children, Sandra Schoor and Alex, Sarah and Brad Lacer, Cassandra, John, Kelsy and Gabrielle, and Trey and Meghan Schoor, Allissa, Wes, Sophia and Oliver; her son, Kevin Moore, Butler; his children, Breanna and Cody Hardie, Abigail and Marcee and Madison Moore and fiancé, Colby; and her Texas family, church families and community.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Feb. 11 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler. Interment will be in Altona Cemetery, Altona. Contributions are suggested to the Clinton Animal Shelter.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.

Michael E. Grant
July 5, 1963 – Jan. 24, 2022

Michael “Mike” Everett Grant, 58, Butler, died Jan. 24 at Research Hospital, Kansas City. He was born July 5, 1963, the son of William Everett and Marilyn Pipes Grant in Butler.

He was preceded in death by his father and a son, Michael Lee Grant.

Mike is survived by two sons, Lance Grant and wife, Chasidy, Iberia, and Wade Grant and wife, Kirstie, Raymore; a daughter, Marcy Grant and fiancé, Michael Sarcinelli, Butler; his companion, Cathy Dodd, Peculiar; his mother, Marilyn Grant, Prescott, Arizona; a brother, David Grant and wife, Linda, Colony, Texas; three sisters, Sherry Fielding, Chino Valley, Arizona, Lisa Grant, Colony, and Cathy Grant, Prescott; seven grandchildren, Ellie Burton, Hadlie Burton, Gianna Grant, Jaxon Sarcinelli, Joey Sarcinelli, Elijah Sarcinelli and Brooke Grant, plus a grandchild due in May, Quinn Everly Grant; and nephews and nieces.

A celebration of life was Feb. 5 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler. Mike’s wishes were to be cremated. Inurnment was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler. Contributions are suggested to Bikers for Babies.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.

Wayne E. Hines
Feb. 4, 1932 – Feb. 2, 2022

Wayne E. Hines, 89, Butler, died Feb. 2 at Louisburg Healthcare and Rehab in Louisburg, Kansas. He was born Feb. 4, 1932, the son of Francis Eugene and Frances Edna Briscoe Hines in the Foster community.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Cynthia Gail Hines; two brothers, David Hines and Jerry Hines; and an infant sister, Claudine Hines.

Wayne is survived by his son, Kevin Hines and wife, Sandy, Butler; a sister, Lena Lowe and husband, Bob, Prescott, Kansas; and two grandchildren, McKayla Clark and husband, Brandon, and Nathan Hines.

Funeral services were Feb. 6 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler. Burial with military honors was in Salem Cemetery, Foster. Contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Virginia United Methodist Church.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.

Rose M. Lee
March 6, 1932 – Feb. 2, 2022

Rose Marie (Owen) Sloan Lee was born March 6, 1932, at the family home, on the property where the Lake City Ammunition Plant is located today, and died Feb. 2 at Lee’s Summit Medical Center, surrounded by the love of family, at the age of 89 years, 10 months and 27 days.

She was the daughter of Lee William and Mina Marie (Lofgren) Owen.

After Rose Marie’s birth, the Owen family continued to live in rural Independence for several years before moving to Lee’s Summit to make their home. She was a 1949 graduate of Lee’s Summit High School.

On Dec. 30, 1949, Rose Marie married Blake Sloan and to this union four children, Gene, Sharon, Jack and Clint were born. After their marriage, they made their home in Pleasant Hill. During this time, Rose Marie worked as a bookkeeper in Kansas City. Rose Marie and Blake were later divorced.

On Sept. 2, 1964, Rose Marie married Charles Larry Lee and to this union one daughter, Rita, was born. After their marriage they lived in Pleasant Hill until 1969, when they moved to Lee’s Summit to make their home and Rose became a full-time homemaker and mother.

After her youngest daughter, Rita, graduated college, Rose Marie went to work as a sales associate for Terry’s Hallmark Store in Lee’s Summit, until her retirement in 1999.

Rose Marie enjoyed raising a vegetable garden, working in her multiple flower beds and watching and feeding the birds and other wildlife that passed through her yard. She was especially fond of her hummingbirds and was entertained by them for hours as she watched from the kitchen window.

She enjoyed playing the piano, working crossword puzzles and was an avid Tiger Woods fan. She was also a loyal Chiefs fan and was always dressed appropriately for game day.

Rose Marie loved and took great pride in her family and especially enjoyed her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee William and Mina Marie Owen; and her sister, Elizabeth Magers.

She is survived by her husband, Larry Lee, Wheatland; sons, Gene Sloan and Judy, Adrian, Jack Sloan and Melinda, Winter Haven, Florida, and Clint Sloan and Mary, Pleasant Hill; step-son, Kent Lee and Lynn, Pleasant Hill; daughters, Sharon Smith and Rita Hesse and Ed, all of Pleasant Hill; 15 grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Per Rose Marie’s wishes, cremation has been accorded.

The family will receive friends from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Feb. 12 at the Wallace Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill. A memorial service will immediately follow at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Kent Deubner officiating.

The family suggests contributions to One Good Meal, P.O. Box 2222, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 or the First Christian Church of Pleasant Hill, P.O. Box 272, Pleasant Hill, MO 64080. Contributions may also be left at the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Wallace Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.

Troy E. Shatto
July 4, 1966 – Feb. 3, 2022

Troy Eugene Shatto, 55, Adrian, died Feb. 3 at Overland Park Regional in Overland Park, Kansas. He was born July 4, 1966, the son of Everett and Karen Ann Searles Shatto in San Diego, California.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Karen Shatto.

Troy is survived by his wife, Teresa Shatto, Adrian; a daughter, Arielle Garr, Adrian; a son, Austin Shatto, Butler; his father, Everett Shatto, Kansas City; paternal grandmother, Bertha Gates, Kansas City; five brothers, Chris Shatto, Tonganoxie, Kansas, Sean Shatto and wife, Victoria, Kansas City, Danny Shatto and wife, Jane, Overland Park, Nathan Shatto, Kansas City, and John Shatto and wife, Amanda, Peculiar; and three grandchildren, Gabrielle, Eugene and Ezra.

A celebration of life will be at 2 p.m. Feb. 10 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. prior to services. Inurnment will be at a later date in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.

Kenneth DW Stewart
Feb. 4, 1961 – Jan. 29, 2022

Kenneth DW Stewart, 60, Butler, died Jan. 29 at St. Joseph hospital. He was born Feb. 4, 1961, the son of Warren and Marjorie (Browning) Stewart. He was the fifth of 10 children.

Kenny met and married Trudy Morgan in 1985 and they were blessed with two children, Kendra and Kenneth, Jr. “Buddy.”

He loved driving fast, turning wrenches and fishing, but most of all his family especially his children and grandchildren.

Kenny was preceded in death by his father, Warren Stewart, Sr.; his mother, Marjorie Stewart; a brother, Steve Stewart; a sister, Eileen Schartz; and a niece, JoAnna Stewart.

Kenny is survived by two children, Kendra and Kyle Norton and Buddy and Shandi Stewart; six grandchildren; seven siblings, Keith and Joyce Cramer, Nevada, Warren Leford, Jr., and Loni Stewart, Hugoton, Kansas, Raymond “Shorty” Stewart, Gillette, Wyoming, Barry Stewart, Nevada, Wilma Stewart, Satanta, Kansas, Janet and Gary Coffman and John David and Nancy Stewart all of Texas; and lots of nieces and nephews.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Heuser Funeral Home, Rich Hill.

Grace M. Taute
Jan. 29, 1934 – Jan. 30, 2022

Grace Matilda Taute, 88, Butler, died Jan. 30 at MedicaLodge of Butler in Butler. She was born Jan. 29, 1934, the daughter of Fred and Matilda Kreppein Aulgur in Kansas City.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a 2-year-old daughter, Ceclilia Marie Stevens; six brothers; and two sisters.

Grace is survived by her husband, Verle Lee Taute, Butler; two daughters, Charlene Rees and husband, Brin, Mesquite, Texas, and Kay Davis and husband, Mike, Amoret; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were Feb. 5 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler. Interment was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler.

Contributions are suggested to Heartland Hospice or the Leukemia Association.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel, Butler.

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