Atchison County, Missouri obituaries
Pat O'Dell - genpat@netins.net
 
Adkins, Nellie Irene "Renee" -

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 11, 2005, at the D.W. Newcomber's Sons Floral Hills Chapel, Kansas City, Missouri, for Nellie Irene "Renee" Adkins. Interment was made in Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, Kansas City.
Renee went to be with her Lord, Wednesday, June 8, 2005, after a courageous battle with heart disease. After returning to her home from the hospital, she enjoyed her family and many dear friends from Le Grand Village where she lived.
Renee was born August 4, 1920, to Zeta Marie and Ora Ben Wiley, spending her early years on the family farm in northwest Missouri outside of Fairfax. She graduated from Daleview High School. She moved to Kansas City during the war where she met and later married William Luther Adkins, February 25, 1946. She helped him establish his painting business and raise their son, William Larry. The family enjoyed building and spending time at their cabin on Lake of the Ozarks.
When Bill became disabled, she devoted herself to his long term care. During this time, her grandchildren became the apple of her eye and they enjoyed her love and doting. After Bill's passing, she became active in aerobics for seniors, starting the program at Le Grand after moving there in 1990 to be closer to her family.

Preceding her in death were an infant son, Richard Lynn; her husband, Bill; and brother, Ora Ben, Jr. Surviving are her son, William Larry and wife, Joy of Lake Winnebago, Missouri; grandson, Adam, and wife, Alberta, and their sons, Razzel, Isiah and Jude; and granddaughter, Shannon Nicole and her daughters, Samantha, Rebeckah and Amanda. She leaves a sister, Marie Gwennap, and husband, John, of Omaha, Nebrasa; brothers, Alva Lee Wiley and wife, Jody, Ft Morgan, Colorado, Dean Wiley and wife, Lois, Fairfax and Marvin Wiley and wife, Belvadene, Maryville, Missouri; and a brother-in-law, Robert Adkins, Kansas City. Memorials may be directed to John Knox Hospice.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Jun 16, 2005

 

Bezner, Martha -

Mrs. Martha Bezner, a native of Rock Port, died July 21 in Santa Clara, Calif. She was 99 years old.
Graveside services were July 23 in the Mission City Memorial Park, Santa Clara.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Mr. L. A. Bezner. Survivors include two sons, Mr. Carl Bezner, Santa Clara, and Mr. Conrad L. Bezner of Arizona, two grandchildren and two
great-grandchildren.

TARKIO AVALANCHE, Tarkio, Missouri, Jul 29, 1976

 

Biermann, Raymond O.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2003, at Concordia Lutheran Church, Mound City, Missouri, for Raymond O. Biermann, Mound City. Interment was made in I.O.O.F Cemetery, Craig, Missouri, under the direction of Pettijohn and Crawford Family Funeral Service, Mound City.
Raymond O. Biermann, age 81, passed away on Fri­day, February 21,2003, at his home. He was born on October 19, 1921, in Craig. He graduated from Mound City High School in Mound City in 1939 and attended the American School of Commerce, Omaha, NE. He has lived on the family farm since 1931.
Mr. Biermann was a dairy and grain farmer for 26 years and was awarded the Balance Farming Award by the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce in 1962, and the Kansas City Chamber in 1965. He was a Career Agent with Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance where he worked from 1972 to 1984. Mr. Biermann served in the United States Army 423rd Medical Collecting Company in World War II. He served in Europe involved in four campaigns, Northern France, Battle of the Bulge, Rhineland and Central Europe.
He was a charter member of Concordia Lutheran Church, Mound City, where he served in various capacities for over 50 years. He helped organize and was a charter member of the former Holt County Cooperative Association where he served as secretary for over 25 years. He was a member of the International Lutheran Laymen's League, American Legion, Holt County Farm Bureau Board member, former board member of the State Theater Arts Council, and treasurer of Mound City Kiwanis. His service to his community is further evident by the fact that he delivered meals to the homebound in Mound City for 15 years and volunteered at the Mound City Elementary School for numerous years. Ray enjoyed jogging, walking and traveling.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Martha (Heine) Biermann; and three brothers, Alvin, Wilbur and Bruno.
Survivors include: seven nephews, Duane, Dean and Daryl Biermann, all of Craig; Bruce Biermann, Mound City; Greg Biermann, Maitland, Missouri; Michael Biermann, Heyburn, Idaho; and Charles Biermann, Idaho Falls, Idaho; niece, Marlou Wegener, Berryton, Kansas; two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Biermann, Burley, Idaho, and Ruth Biermann, Craig; and numerous other family members. Memorials may be directed to the Biermann Memorial Scholarship Fund.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Feb 27, 2003

 

Bowers, Carolyn Louise McAfee -

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 21, 2003, at Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port, Missouri, for Carolyn Louise Bowers, Rock Port. Pastor Eric Anderson officiated. Interment was made in Hunter Cemetery, Rock Port. Services were under the direction of Minter Funeral Chapel.
Carolyn Louise (McAfee) Bowers was born March 29, 1935, in Langdon, Missouri. She attended school in Langdon, Phelps City and Rock Port.

On October 18, 1952, Carolyn was united in marriage to John W. (Jake) Bowers in Sidney, Iowa. Most of their married life they lived in Phelps City and Nishnabotna, Missouri, with the exception of residing in Omaha, Nebraska, for three years. In 1965, they moved to Nishnabotna. They were parents of four sons, John, Allen, Jay and Russell. Carolyn was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother who enjoyed her family and was extremely proud of all their accomplishments.
Through the years, Carolyn was a hard worker, respected by all of her peers. She worked for the Pleasant View Rest Home and in local restaurants. For a short time, Carolyn and Jake operated a grocery store in Nishnabotna. Carolyn enjoyed playing the piano, reading and playing bingo. She was a member of the former Phelps City United Methodist Church.
Jake passed away September 26, 1992. Carolyn moved to Rock Port in May of 1993, and in 1998, she became a resident of Fair Oaks Housing. Since 2002, Carolyn resided at Pleasant View Nursing Home, where she passed away Saturday, April 19, 2003, at the age of 68 years.

Carolyn is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, John W. II and Vickie Bowers, Rock Port, Allen R. and Pam Bowers, St. Joseph, Missouri, L. Jay and Connie Bowers, Blair, Nebraska, and Russell M. Bowers, Sidney, Iowa; and four grandchildren, Shane Molthan, Michelle Bowers, Mark Bowers and Shelby Bowers.
Besides her husband, Jake, Carolyn was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Belle Hawk, and grandson, Michael Wayne Bowers. Memorials may be directed to the Carolyn Bowers Memorial Fund.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Apr 24, 2003

 

Browning, Eugene

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 8, 2001, at the First Baptist Church of Independence, Missouri, for Eugene Browning, Independence. Interment was made in Mt. Washington Forever Cemetery under the direction of Mt. Washington Forever Funeral Home.

Eugene Browning, age 84, passed away on Wednesday, December 5, 2001, at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Missouri. He was born on December 1, 1917, in Flat River, Missouri, to Thomas L. and Effie M. McGuire Browning. Though not born to wealth, he believed "any wage he had asked of life, life would have gladly paid." After putting himself through Southwest Baptist College and the University of Missouri, he volunteered and served as a Lieutenant Junior Grade in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Later, he championed the Fairmount Business District, leading various businesses and community efforts.
A banker, he rose to the ownership of the Exchange Bank of Fairfax and Standard State Bank in Independence. Eugene was president of the Exchange Bank of Fairfax from 1954-1959. Later, Eugene owned Browning Chevrolet in Fairmount. Mo. More recently, he enjoyed an active trade in antiques, a business shared with his wife. Life paid him well and he enjoyed serving others. He was always given freely of both time and substance to his family. A member of First Baptist Church of Independence, he had long supported and provided leadership to Baptist work. Eugene served as treasurer for the Blue Valley Baptist Association and on the Executive Board of the Missouri Baptist Convention.
Among his public service, he served terms on the Kansas City, Missouri, School Board; the Jackson County Board of Election Commissioners; the Jackson County Zoning Board; and the Salvation Army Advisory Board. He held leadership roles on the Independence and Greater Kansas City Chambers of Commerce. In 1991, he received his honorary doctorate from Southwest Baptist University. For several years he was president of the Board of Directors of Mr [sic]. Washington Cemetery.
Eugene is survived by dearly loved wife of 61 years Zola; a daughter, Eugenia; the sons, Dennis, Wayne and Mark; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Memorials may be directed to the First Baptist Church or Southwest Baptist University. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Dec 31, 2001


Burke, Mercer - Mercer Burke, 84-year-old retired farmer and lifelong resident of Rock Port, died Friday at his home in Rock Port.

Many Fairfax residents became well acquainted with Mr Burke during his daily visits to his wife during her 21-month hospitalization in Fairfax. She died in November, 1965 at the age of 82.

Funeral services were held Monday at the Rock Port Baptist church and burial was in Green Hill Cemetery.

Mr Burke is survived by three sons: Willis M. Burke and James Burke, Rock Port, and Kenneth R. Burke, Denver, Colo; and three brothers, Russell Burke of Jefferson City; Ford Burke, Fairfax; Preston Burke, Rock Port.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Oct 19, 1967

 

Cook, Helen U. McDaniel

Graveside services and burial were held at 10 a.m .on Saturday, March 1, 2003, at I.O.O.F. Cemetery near Craig, Missouri, for Helen U. Cook, Craig. Rev. Jim Brown officiated. Services were under the direction of Schooler Funeral Home, Craig.
Helen U. Cook, 91, passed away Monday, February 24, 2003, at Community Hospital in Fairfax. Mrs. Cook had been a school teacher her entire adult life until retiring in the late 1970's. Born on January 12,1912, she lived her life in Craig and was the daughter of Ralph C. and Una V. McDaniel. Mrs. Cook was a member of the Nazarene Church of Craig.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William Cook; brother, Thomas McDaniel; and a sister, Viola Mae Rogers.
Survivors include a daughter, Barbara Offenbacker; a granddaughter, RoxAnn Dunn; two great-grandchildren, Clarissa Murphy and Caleb Dunn; a great-great­grandchild, Trevor Ingle; a sister, Mrs. Frank Bowness; a grandson-in-law, Ronald Dunn; two stepgreat-great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Murphy and Braydon Murphy; and a great-grandson-in-law, Josh Murphy. Memorials may be directed to the American Heart Association.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Mar 6, 2003

 

Culver, Velma N. Hughes -

Velma N. Culver of Longmont, Colorado, passed away Tuesday, March 4, 2003, at her home. She was 68 years old. She was born May 31, 1934, to Everett and Flossie (Nowling) Hughes outside Fairfax, Missouri.
Upon graduation from high school in Mound City, Missouri, she enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Korean War and served from 1952 to 1955. She then attended Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, and the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. On November 14, 1958, she married Stanley Gale Culver in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Mrs. Culver worked in real estate in the late 1960's. During the 1970's she managed the Snelling and Snelling Agency in Longmont and later a floral shop in Loveland, Colorado. She was a Girl Scout leader and volunteered in her spare time. She loved children, animals and gardening and was an avid reader. Prior to moving to Longmont in 1965, she traveled extensively throughout the west with her husband who was employed by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Mrs. Culver was preceded in death by her parents, and a sister, Mary Robison. She is survived by her husband, Stanley of Longmont; one daughter, Alison Culver-Rasnic, Mound City; and one son, Matthew Culver, Evans, Colorado.
Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Howe Mortuary, Longmont. Inurnment will be held at Mount Hope Cemetery in Mound City at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Longmont Humane Society, 9595 Nelson Road, Longmont, CO 80501 or the Denver Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 1835 Franklin Street, Denver, CO 80218. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Mar 13, 2003

 

Curry, Bert F. - Bert F. Curry of Rock Port, died Thursday Dec 8 at the Fairfax Community hospital, following an extended illness. He was 70 years of age.

Services were held Saturday at the Rock Port Methoidst church with the Rev Neil Dubach officating. Burial was in High Creek cemetery, north of Rock Port. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Dec 22, 1966

 

Demott, Loren -

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2002, at the United Methodist Church in Rock Port, MO, for Loren Demott, Rock Port. Reverend Ralph Clark officiated. Interment was made at Smith Cemetery, Rock Port. Services were under the direction of Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port.
Loren Demott was born November 19, 1917, in Denver, MO, the son of Carter and Callie (Wilson) Demott. He passed away Tuesday, May 21, 2002, at the Pleasant View Rest Home in Rock Port at the age of 84 years.
Loren's early education was received in rural schools near Denver, after which he graduated from Stanberry High School in Stanberry, MO. Loren worked in a local grocery store.
On May 28, 1938, Loren was united in marriage to Florence Elizabeth Gillett at the Methodist parsonage in Stanberry. He continued to work in the grocery store until he entered the United States Army Air Force in April of 1943. Loren served his country overseas during World War II and received his honorable discharge in October of 1945.
After returning to Stanberry, Loren again worked for the Edson Grocery and learned the meat cutting trade. In 1954, he purchased and operated his own grocery store in Clyde, MO, until moving to Fairfax, MO, in 1963, to work for Hunter Grocery. From 1973 to 1978, he owned and operated the Fairfax Locker. After Loren's retirement in 1978, he and Florence moved to Big Lake, MO. Since 1989, they have resided in Rock Port. For many years, Loren and Florence spent their winters in Florida and Texas, Traveling and fishing were Loren's favorite pastimes.
Loren was member of the United Methodist Church in Rock Port, and was a member for over 50 years of the Ralph Greer American Legion Post #49, and the North Star Lodge #157, A.F. and A.M., both of Rock Port, and a member of the Rock Port Chapter #440-Order of the Eastern Star.
Loren is survived by his wife, Florence, of Rock Port; son and daughter-in-law, Cecil and Marlene Demott, Rock Port; daughter and son-in-law, Anita and Dennis Queen, Columbus, OH; sister, Zelma Miller, San Benito, TX; and six grandchildren, Kenna, Afton, Kaci and Allyson Demott, and Autumn and Valerie Queen.
Besides his parents, Loren was preceded in death by three brothers, Elmer, Cecil and Orville Demott; one sister, Lelah; and brother-in-law, Lyndon Miller. Memorials may be directed to the Smith Cemetery Association or the Rock Port Nutrition Center.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 30, 2002

 

Dilts, Etta Lou Shortridge -

Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, December 8, 2001, at Meierhoffer Family Funeral Service in St. Joseph, MO, for Etta Lou Dilts of St. Joseph. Interment was made in Memorial Park Cemetery in St. Joseph.
Etta Lou Dilts, 81, passed away Tuesday, December 4, 2001, at a health care center in St. Joseph. She was born in Camden Point, MO, on May 15, 1920. She lived in Tarkio and attended the former Tarkio College in Tarkio. She also lived in Long Beach, CA, for five years prior to moving to St. Joseph.
Etta was a homemaker and had been teacher at a country school near Fairfax, MO. She was a member of the Wyatt Park Christian Church. On June 15, 1941, Etta married Raymond L. Dilts. He passed away in 1991.
Survivors include a son, Dr. Jeffrey C. Dilts of Akron, OH; a brother, Charles R. Shortridge of Huntington Beach, CA; two grandchildren, Kimberly Weber of Akron, OH, and Lara Levine of Lexington, KY; two great­grandchildren, Carter M. and Samantha R. Levine, both of Lexington, KY; and a close friend, Don Ebling, Sr., of St.

Besides her parents, Alfred and Lucile (Marrs) Shortridge, Etta's husband, Raymond, preceded her in death. The family suggests memorial gifts to: Road to Recovery, c/o American Cancer Society, 3931 Sherman Avenue, St. Joseph, MO. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Dec 31, 2001

 

Donelson, Melissa Minerva Cox

Melissa Minerva Cox was born October 15, 1896 near Okarche, Canadian county, Oklahoma. She was the daughter of Sadie Francis Farmer Cox and J. L. Cox.
She departed this life March 1, 1935 at the age of 38 years, four months and 13 days.
On September 10, 1920 she was married to Harlan J. Donelson of Fairfax, Mo., who with four children, survive. The children are: Kathleen, Louise, Harlan, jr. and Sadie Ellen, all at home, with the exception or Louise who is a resident of Niles City Michigan. Besides her husband and children she leaves to mourn her death, three brothers, John L. Cox of Crystal Springs, Florida, Samuel F. Cox of Wichita Falls, Texas and James M. Cox of Memphis, Tenn.
Mrs. Donelson's early life was spent in Oklahoma, moving to Kansas when she was about 13 years old. She was a graduate of the Horton, Kansas high school and spent two years teaching prior to her marriage.
She became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church at an early age, but of later years was united with the Assembly of God church, and was a faithful and consistent Christian all her life.
Funeral services  were conducted at the. Fairfax Baptist church, Wednesday March   6, the   Rev. Elmer Trellinger of Tarkio officiating. Burial was in Pleasant Ridge cemetery.THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Mar 8, 1935

 

Dymond, Jessie R.

Services were held Tuesday afternoon for Mrs. Jessie R. Dymond, at the Schooler Funeral Home in Fairfax, conducted by Rev. Clyde Hendricks, with burial in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery.
Mrs. Clyde Hendricks was in charge of music. Pallbearers were Richard Lee Pearce, Billy Howell, Harold Volker, H. K. Ray, Bill Adamson, Charles Norton.
Jessie R. Dymond was born Feb. 2, 1898 and died at the Community Hospital, Fairfax, Friday evening, May 18, following a short illness at the age of 81 years, 3 months and 16 days.
Mrs. Dymond was a former resident of Fairfax, prior to the death of her husband, Earl J. Dymond, in 1959. She was making her home in Tarkio at the time of her death.
She is survived by two sons and three daughters, John E. Dymond, Jefferson, Ark.; Earl D. Dymond, Elmo; Helen Murcko, Tuscon, Ariz.; Dorothy Davis, Fairfax; Virginia Sell, Tabor, la.; three sisters, Mrs. Molly Turner, Maryville; Mrs. Marie Davis, Buffalo; Mrs. Florence Schnitker, Cozad, Nebr.; nine grand­children and nine great­grandchildren.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 24, 1979


Foley, William Elbert -

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 1,2003, at the Christian Fellowship Church in Mound City, MO, for William Elbert Foley, Craig, Missouri. Rev. Jim Brown officiated. Interment was made in I.O.O.F. Cemetery, Craig, Missouri, under the direction of Schooler Funeral Home, Craig.

William Elbert Foley, 90, passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2003, at Shady Lawn Nursing Home in Savannah, Missoruri. Mr Foley was born January 15, 1913, in Fairfax, Missouri. He was a lifelong resident of Craig, working at the Craig Grain Elevator.

He was a member of the Craig Chirstian Church and later attended Christian Fellowship Church in Mound City, Missouri. He was also a member of the American Legion at Craig for over 50 years. He will be remembered by his many friends as a loyal, generous and giving person.
Mr. Foley was preceded in death by his wife, Marie; his parents, William David (W.D.) and Mary Williams; three brothers, Guy, Merril and Donald; and two sisters, Laveta and Hallie.
Mr. Foley is survived by two sons and a daughter, D.L., Bob and Elberta; 12 grandchildren; and six great­grandchildren.
Mr. Foley was proud to have been on the first winning basketball team at Fairfax. He was also a big supporter of Craig varsity teams and rode the school bus on numerous occasions. Memorials may be directed to the Christian Fellowship Church or Story-Hardin Post #164 American Legion. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Mar 6, 2003

 

Fox, Rosialea Fry -

Rosialea Fox, age 70, passed away on Friday, January 10, 2003, at Three Rivers Healthcare North in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. She was born August 25,1932, in Langdon, Missouri, the daughter of Troy and Annabelle (Bettinger) Fry.
She was united in marriage to Melvin Fox on September 16, 1949, in Mound City, Missouri, and he preceded her in death on October 21, 2000. Rosialea enjoyed caring for her house plants, raising roses, painting, crafting and she loved animals. Rosialea was baptized at the Ellington First Baptist Church.
She is survived by two sons, Evan Fox, and wife, Wanda, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Donald Fox, and wife, Annette, Tulsa, Oklahoma; and four daughters, Penny Goldsborough, and husband, Earnest, Ellington, Denise Smith, and husband, Kenny, Buckeye Lake, Ohio, Patricia Hoge, and husband, Tom, South Gate, California, and Inabelle Lehar, and husband, Jim, Rock Springs, Wyoming; three brothers, D.C. Williard and Floyd Fry, all of Council Bluffs, Iowa; two sisters, Donnis Huffman, Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Wilma Boner, Genesco, Kansas; 13 grand­children; and 10 great­grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sons, Ronald and Eugene.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Feb 6, 2003


Freeman, H. Wayne -

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2003, at the First Church of God, Craig, Missouri, for H. Wayne Freeman, Fairfax, Missouri. Reverends Randy Brooks and Judy Voss officiated. Interment was made in Home Cemetery, Tarkio, Missouri. Services were under the direction of Schooler Funeral Home, Fairfax.
Harold Wayne Freeman was born March 2, 1928, in Dora, Missouri, to Charles and Verlie Freeman. Wayne attended Dora High School in Dora. Wayne entered into eternal rest April 18,2003, at the age of seventy-five years.

Wayne was actively involved in agriculture for over 60 years. The last 55 years were spent in Fairfax. Wayne was a member of the Fairfax Rural Fire Board, the Optimist Club, and the MFA Board. He was an avid bowler and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Wayne was a member of the First Church of God of Craig. Wayne's tremendous faith in God guided him through his life and gave him strength through his illness.
Wayne is survived by his wife, Lorena Freeman, of the family home; two daughters, Karen Freeman and husband, Larry Freeman, Carrollton, Missouri, and Linda Hedrick and husband, James Hedrick, Omaha, Nebraska; grandchildren, Jeff Freeman and his special friend, Cheryl Beery, St. Joseph, Missouri, Jana Stevens and husband, Eric, of Kearney, Missouri, and Jacqueline Hedrick, and her special friend, Curtis Pittman, and Greg and Justin Hedrick, all of Omaha, Nebraska; great-grandchildren, Taylor Hedrick, Omaha, and Jacob Stevens, Kearney; and one sister, Normagene Roach of Jacksonville, Arkansas. Wayne is preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Ethelene Cobb. Memorials may be directed to the Fairfax Rural Fire Department.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Apr 24, 2003


Gann, LaVerne "Aunt Ludy" Fagan -

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2002, at the Fairfax Baptist Church in Fairfax, for LaVerne Gann, Tarkio, Missouri. Graveside services and burial were held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, May 16, at Mt. Olive Cemetery in Troy, Kansas. Rev. Steve Suttill officiated. Services were under the direction of Schooler Funeral Home, Fairfax.
LaVerne "Aunt Ludy", age 91, passed away on Monday, May 13, 2002. She was born in rural Buchanan County, Missouri, on August 23,1910. She was one of six children born to Edward and Eva (Leslie) Fagan. LaVerne grew up in that area and attended rural school there.
She became the wife of Hugh E. Gann on August 15, 1931, at Savannah, Missouri. Hugh and LaVerne had made their home in Troy, Kansas, and St. Joseph, Missouri, before moving to Kansas City, Kansas, in 1943. While living in St. Joseph, they owned and operated a service station, lunch room and dance hall.
After establishing residence in Kansas City, Kansas, LaVerne was employed by the Wyandotte County Assessor's office.
Hugh preceded his wife in death in 1990 and shortly after that, LaVerne moved to Fairfax to be closer to her niece, Mrs. Lorena Martin Stevens, and her family. LaVerne lived in Fair Haven Apartments until 1998, when she moved to Northview Manor Care Center in Tarkio, Missouri. While living in Fairfax, LaVerne was a "regular" at many community functions. She especially enjoyed sharing conversation and having lunch at the Daybreak Cafe.
LaVerne was a member of John Calvin Presbyterian Church in Kansas City, Kansas, and she attended the Fairfax Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two brothers, Arthur and Jessie Fagan; and three sisters, Catherine Krumme, Fay Freeman and Anna Mae Reynold. Memorials may be directed to Fair Haven Apartments or to the Fairfax Baptist Church. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 23, 2002

 

Gayler, John Bert - John Bert Gayler was born December 23, 1918 and passed away July 1, 2002 at the age of 83 years.

Funeral serviceswere held on Wednesday, July 3, 3002 at 10 am at Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port, Missouri and were conducted by Pator George Owens.

Interment at Hunter Cemetery, Rock Port, Missouri.

Memorials may be directed to Hunter Cemetery Association.

Services under the direction of Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port, Missouri. ATCHISON COUNTY MAIL, Rock Port, Missouri, Jul 4, 2002

 

Gayler, Pearl Ruth Voltmer -

Pearl Ruth Gayler, daughter of Carl and Electa (Foster) Voltmer, was born September 10, 1917 in Corning, Missouri. She passed away at Community Hospital in Fairfax, Missouri on June 29, 2002 at the age of 84 years, 10 months and 19 days.
She attended the Corning country schools before moving to Rock Port, Missouri in 1928 where she helped area families in the care of their homes.
On September 9, 1933, Pearl was united in marriage to Roy Thomas (Pete) Gayler in Rock Port at the home of Justice of the Peace, Albert Kelly. They resided in Rock Port where they reared their family of five children until moving to Langdon, Missouri in 1968. Pete passed away October 10, 1992. Pearl remained in her home until becoming a resident of Pleasant View in Rock Port in 1998. With her wonderful personality, she continued to enjoy her family and friends and never lost her love for cooking and good food.
She was a member of the Baptist Church of Rock Port and the Templeton Homemakers Club of rural Rock Port. For many years she served on the Election Board.
Survivors include four sons and daughters-in-law, Lloyd Wayne and Alice Gayler of Holden, Missouri, Harold Dean and Sheleen Gayler, Marlin Carl and Sherry Gayler and Bobby Joe and Teresa Gayler, all of Rock Port; daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Floyd Davis of Union, Nebraska; nine grandchildren; eight great-grand­children; and one sister, Barbara Addington of Rock Port.
Besides her parents and husband, Pete, she was preceded in death by infant daughter, Beverly Ann Gayler; brother, Roy Voltmer and two sisters, Bessie Heits and Doris Davis.

Funeral services were Tuesday July 2,2002 at 10:00 AM at Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port, Missouri and were conducted by Pastor George Owens.
Interment at Hunter Cemetery, Rock Port, Missouri.
Memorials may be directed to Pleasant View Nursing Home or American Heart Association.
Services under the direction of Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock, Missouri. ATCHISON COUNTY MAIL, Rock Port, Missouri, Jul 4, 2002


Grubb, Dale E. -

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2002, at the First Baptist Church in Fairfax, Missouri, for Dale E. Grubb, Fairfax. Pastor Steve Suttill officiated. Interment was made in Home Cemetery, Tarkio. Services were under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio, Missouri.
Dale E. Grubb, the son of Melvin H. and Mary (Walter) Grubb, was born June 30, 1921, near Rock Port, Missouri. He passed away Saturday, May 11, 2002, at Community Hospital, Fairfax, Missouri, at the age of 80 years.
Dale attended the Opp country and Rock Port schools graduating in 1939. He farmed for a number of years with his parents until entering the United States Army in July, 1943. He became an Aviation Cadet and was discharged from the Army and taken into the Army Air Corps. In November, 1943, as a First Lieutenant and after completing flight training, Dale began piloting the B-24 Liberator. On his fourth mission he was shot down over Switzerland and captured and held in an internment camp. He later escaped with the aid of the Yugoslavian underground, where the Free French Interior aided him in getting to England.

On December 28, 1944, Dale was united in marriage to Dorothy Martin at the First Lutheran Church in Rock Port. They have lived and farmed in Atchison County for over 50 years. Dale was a very well known and well liked individual, who never met a stranger. He was always smiling and laughing and his presence brought a positive tone to all situations.

Dale was baptized in and was a member of the Fairfax Baptist Church. He was also a member of the Fairfax Masonic Lodge #483.
Survivors include: Dale's wife, Dorothy, of the home in Fairfax; one son, Dr. Stephen D. Grubb and daughter-in-law, Dawn, Tabor City, North Carolina; two grandchildren, Zachary Neal Grubb and Stephanie Blair Grubb, both of Tabor City; two brothers. Orville Grubb and wife, Wilma, Rock Port, Missouri, and Ralph Grubb and wife, Ruth, Marshall, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Dale was preceded in death by three brothers, Leonard, Dean and Don Grubb; one sister, Virginia Noble; and three nephews, George, David and Gary Grubb. Memorials may be directed to the Fairfax Baptist Church.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 16, 2002

 

Hall, John W.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, February 25, 2003, at the Christian Fellowship Church in Mound City, Missouri, for John W. Hall, Mound City. Interment was made in Tharp Cemetery, Craig, Missouri, under the direction of Pettijohn and Crawford Family Funeral Service, Mound City.
John W. Hall, age 69, passed away on Friday, Feb­ruary 21, 2003, at his home. Mr. Hall was born on April 26, 1933, south of Fairfax, Missouri, and graduated from Craig High School in 1951. After graduating, he worked on the railroad and in the parts department for the former Ideker Motors in Mound City. For the last 41 years, John farmed in Holt and Atchison counties. He started Hall Construction Company in 1963.
Mr. Hall served in the United States Army during the Korean War. On April 20, 1957, he married Joan Garrett in Craig. She survives of the home.
He was a member of the Paul P. Shutts Post #121, American Legion, Mound City and the Masonic Lodge #139 A.F. and A.M., Oregon, Missouri. Mr. Hall was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Mound City and also attended Christian Fellowship Church in Mound City.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Maudie (Singleton) Hall; brother, Harold; and a sister, Alberta Smith. Additional survivors include a son, Gregory W., and his wife, Robin Hall, Mound City; daughter, Krista and her husband, Rusty Burge, Mound City; two grandchildren, Garrett and Morgan Burge; brother, Sterling Hall, Menefee, California; two sisters, Maxine Murray, Springfield, Missouri, and Oma Hawkins, Fairfax; and several nieces and nephews. Memorials may be directed to Tharp Cemetery or a charity of the donor's choice.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Feb 27, 2003

 

Harmon, Marvin -

Memorial services will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 2, 2002, at Schooler Funeral Home in Fairfax, for Marvin Harmon, Rock Port, Missouri. Rev. Steve Suttill will officiate.
Marvin Harmon, age 72, was born on February 26, 1930, on a farm south of Fairfax. He was one of seven children born to Claude and Ruth (Swinehart) Harmon. When he was six years old, the family moved to the High Creek neighborhood, north of Rock Port, Missouri, where Marvin grew up.
Marvin worked on the farm for a short time and then began working as a meat cutter. He had worked for Bradley Locker Plant and he worked for Rock Port Market for 40 years. He also worked for R & L Grocery in Fairfax. Among other things, Marvin will be remembered for his sense of humor and his dry wit.
Marvin served in the United States Army during the Korean War. After a lingering illness, he passed away at his home on Friday April 26, 2002.

He is survived by a brother, Wayne, Rock Port; a sister, Jean Stickerod, Fairfax; and several nieces and nephews. Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, George, D.L., and Jim; and a sister, Neva Chastain. He attended the Methodist Church and was also a member of the Ralph Greer Post #49 American Legion. Memorials may be directed to the Atchison County Chapter of the American Cancer Society.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 2, 2002

 

Hawkins, Oma Lee Hall -

Funeral services were held Sunday, July 31, 2005, at 2:30 p.m. at the Fairfax Presbyterian Church, Fairfax, Missouri, for Oma Lee Hawkins of Fairfax. Services were conducted by Rev. Richard Pearson and interment was held in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, Fairfax. Funeral services were under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio, Missouri.
Oma Lee Hawkins was born in rural Craig, Missouri, to Charles and Maude (Singleton) Hall on August 26, 1926. She was one of six children. As a young girl, she attended Wade Country School and later went on to graduate from Fairfax High School in 1944. While in high school, she worked for the Fairfax Phone Company, and following graduation she was employed by the Exchange Bank of Fairfax.
Oma was united in marriage to Gerald Van Hawkins at the Presbyterian Church in Fairfax, Missouri, on January 1, 1948. The two then made their home on a farm southeast of Fairfax, where they farmed together and raised their five children. Gerald passed away November 2, 1988. For a brief time in 1991, Oma lived in Tarkio, Missouri, then moved back to Fairfax in 1992, and resided there until the present time.
Oma was a very devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker, always putting her family first. A few of her favorite activities included: cooking, gardening, canning, attending ball games, shopping, going to the casino, and visiting friends. Oma loved being outdoors, whether it was helping Gerald on the farm or playing games with her children and grandchildren. She was also very active in her community. Oma was a member of the Fairfax Presbyterian Church, serving both as an elder and deacon. She was a member of Fairfax Chapter #373 Order of the Eastern Star, past Matron, and had served twice as District Deputy Grand Matron. Oma was a member of the Pinochle Club, 49er's Club, and the American Legion Auxiliary. Although she took pride with her involvement in these or­ganizations, Oma's greatest joy was her commitment to family as her children and grandchildren's "Biggest Fan". She enjoyed every moment of her family's academic, musical, and athletic achievements. Oma passed away on Thursday, July 28, 2005, at the Community Hospital Association in Fairfax, Missouri, at the age of 78.
Survivors include her children, Gary and Martha Hawkins, Chillicothe, Missouri, Richard and Debbie Hawkins, Ozark, Missouri, and H.A. and Dianna Hawkins, and Rita and Clay Knierim, all of Tarkio; daughter-in-law, Nancy Hawkins, Newton, Iowa; grandchildren, Keith Hawkins and wife, Rachel, Brice Hawkins and wife, Shawntay, Matt, Garrett, Zach, Vanessa, Olivia, and Derek Hawkins, Shannon and Ashley Knierim, and Jamie Champlin and husband, Jeff; great-grandson, Ashton Scott Hawkins; stepgreat-grandchildren, Jake and Sam Novae; sister, Maxine Murray, and husband, Merle, Springfield, Missouri; and one brother, Sterling Hall and wife, Marge, Menifee, California.
Besides her husband, Gerald, Oma was preceded in death by one son, Scott Hawkins; one granddaughter, Amy Hawkins; one sister, Alberta Smith; and two brothers, Harold Hall and John Hall. Memorials may be directed to the Fairfax Presbyterian Church or Community Hospital Association, Fairfax, Missouri.THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Aug 4, 2005


Jewett, Josephine Pearl Backhaus

Josephine Pearl Jewett, the eldest daughter of Carl Louis Willi Backhaus, a German immigrant, and Lulu Mae King Backhaus, was born in Benton Township, near Langdon, Atchison County, Missouri, on September 15, 1907, and died at St. Joseph's Hospital, St. Joseph, on May 6, 1979, at the age of 71 years, 7 months and 21 days.
She attended the rural schools near Rock Port, and graduated from the Rock Port High School with the class of 1927.
On November 18, 1933, she was united in marriage to Guy C. Jewett of Fairfax, at Maryville, by the Rev. Willard M. Wickizer.
The first seven years of their married life was spent on a farm in the Bellevue community northeast of Mound City, and in 1942 they moved to the town of Craig, where they resided for over 36 years. In July of 1978, Mrs. Jewett moved to St. Joseph to be near her children.
There were eight children born to their marriage, seven of whom survive; three daughters, Mrs. Joseph (Colleen) Fields of Lake Holbrook, Tex., Mrs. Benny (Joan) Hearn of Lake Lavon, Tex., and Mrs. Charles (Shirley) Bailey of Mineola, Tex.; four sons, Louis Oliver Jewett of Barnard, Lloyd Wayne Jewett of Savannah, Guy LaVern Jewett and Harold N. Jewett, both of St. Joseph; 21 grandchildren; five great­grandchildren; one niece; two nephews; cousins and a large circle of friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister Lois Backhaus, a twin son, Floyd Gene Jewett, on February 24, 1955, and by her husband on December 24, 1972.
As a small child she was baptized into the Lutheran Church of Langdon. On September 15, 1946, she joined the Methodist church of Craig, and remained a faithful member till the church was closed, at which time she joined the Craig Church of the Nazarene, where she remained a member until April 15, 1979, at which time she transferred her membership to the Northside Church of the Nazarene in St. Joseph.

Funeral services were held at the Heaton-Bowman-Smith-Sidenfaden Chapel, St. Joseph, on Wednesday, May 9 conducted by the Rev. Maxie Harris of the Northside Church of the Nazarene, assisted by the Rev. Zane Holland of the Craig Church of the Nazarene.
Mrs. Lavonne Harris accompanied by Robert Grubbs, organist, sang.
Pallbearers were Wade Whitham, Floyd Ray Quimby, Randy Wilkinson, Richard Jackson, David Showaiter and Jim Kozanecki.
Interment was at the IOOF Cemetery, Craig.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 24, 1979

 

Kemerling, Ralph O. -

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, January 30, 2003, at the Church of God in Craig, Missouri, for Ralph O. Kemerling, Mound City, Missouri, formerly of Craig, Missouri. Rev. Randy Brooks and Rev. Jim Brown officiated. Interment was made in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, Fairfax, Missouri, under the direction of Schooler Funeral Home, Craig.
Ralph O. Kemerling, age 94, passed away Monday, January 27,2003, at Tiffany Heights Nursing Home in Mound City. Born in Rock Port, Missouri, on April 11, 1908, Mr. Kemerling had been employed in farming most of his life in the Fairfax, Corning and Craig areas. He also drove a school bus for the Craig School, for many years, until his retirement.
On August 15, 1936, he married LaVaun Scarlett in Rock Port. She survives of the home. They have two children, Van Kemerling and Donna Austin, both of Mound City. Mr. Kemerling was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters, Albert, Richard, Marshall, Donald, Amy and Mert.
Additional survivors include a sister, Margaret Williams, Greenville, South Carolina; six grandsons, Chris Sharp, Mound City, Shawn Sharp, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Mike Sharp, Mound City, Donavan Kemerling, Mound City, Marcus Kemerling, Yuma, Arizona, and Shannon Kemerling, Lawrence, Kansas; and a granddaughter, Stacy Kemerling, Lawrence. Mr. Kemerling is also survived by seven great-grandchildren and two stepgrand-daughters, Dana Travis, Kansas City, Kansas, and Shandra Butler, Mound City. Memorials may be directed to the Church of God, Craig.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Feb 6, 2003

 

Kirby, Doris Lee Daily

Funeral services were held Tuesday, August 2, 2005, at 2:00 p.m. at Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio, Missouri, for Doris Lee Kirby of Tarkio. Services were conducted by Rev. Dale O'Connell and interment was held in English Grove Cemetery, Fairfax, Missouri. Funeral services were under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Tarkio.

Doris Lee Kirby, the daughter of Frank and Edna (Weedin) Daily, was born September 2, 1919, in Fairfax, Missouri. Doris attended the Parnell rural school, near Horace, Nebraska, and graduated from Scotia, Nebraska, High School in 1938. At the age of 16, Doris began her teaching career, and, for two years, taught in rural Nebraska "one room" schools. She then attended the Chillicothe Business College and was soon employed as the executive secretary to the manager of KBUR, a radio station in Burlington, Iowa.
On June 14, 1948, Doris was united in marriage to Warren G. Kirby in Fairfax. Doris was a devoted mother and homemaker. They were later divorced. In 1957, she entered Tarkio College, graduating Summa Cum Laude. in 1962, with a degree in education. Doris was then employed, for four years, in the Fort Morgan, Colorado, public school system. In 1967, she returned to Atchison County and began teaching in Rock Port, Missouri, until her retirement in 1987. Following retirement she enjoyed traveling, reading, and spending time with her grandchildren.
Doris was a member of the Tarkio United Methodist Church, the Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority, the Tarkio Business and Professional Women and the Tarkio Book Club. She was also a member of the Friends of the Library and the American Legion Auxiliary. Doris passed away Friday, July 29, 2005, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, at the age of 85 years.
Survivors include one son, Warren Gerald Kirby, Jr., of the home in Tarkio; three daughters, Roberta Lee Parrish, Columbia, Missouri, Shirley (Lee) M. Espy and husband, William W., Atlanta, Georgia, and Margaret Kirby Taylor and husband, David, Liberty, Texas; four grandchildren, Zachary William Taylor and Kirby Lee Taylor, both of Liberty, Texas, and William Walker Espy and Joseph Robert Espy, Atlanta, Georgia.
Besides her parents, Doris was preceded in death by a son, Bruce A. Kirby, and a brother, Frank E. Daily. Memorails may be directed to Community Hospital Association, Fairfax, Missouri, 40 and 8 Nurses' Training Fund. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Aug 4, 2005


Kruse, Anna Miller

Mrs. Anna Kruse, a native of Germany, and a pioneer of Dale township, died at her home in Fairfax on February 28, 1935, at the age of 85 fears, five months and 14 days.
Mrs. Kruse, whose maiden name was Miller, was born in Hanover, Germany, September 14, 1849.
Mrs. Kruse spent her girlhood days in Germany. A brother had emigrated to America to escape German military service and it was on his advice that she came to the land of opportunities when she was 18 years old. She made the trip on a sailboat, and was on the ocean seven weeks. She spent one year in New York and then came west to Clinton, Illinois, where she lived for nine years.
While living in Illinois she met and was happily married to Chris Kruse, also a native of Germany, on April 29, 1874. In the year 1876 they came to Atchison county where they had previously purchased a farm, and they lived on the farm until the death of Mr. Kruse in 1916, after which she moved to Fairfax and has since made her home here. [Last part of obituary missing.]

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Mar 8, 1935

 

Leseberg, Eleanor -

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Monday, May 20, 2002, at the First Lutheran Church in Rock Port, MO, for Eleanor Leseberg, Rock Port. Interment was made in Hunter Cemetery, Rock Port. Arrangements were under the direction of Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore, MO.
Eleanor (Ebert) Leseberg, age 69, born November 4, 1932, to Carl J. and Johanna (Rolf) Ebert, passed away Tuesday, May 14, 2002. Eleanor received her early education at May Flower School. She graduated from Rock Port High School and worked at the ASCS in Rock Port.

Eleanor was baptized January 8, 1933, and confirmed August 4,1946, at the St. John's Lutheran Church near Westboro, MO. Eleanor married Marvin Leseberg, February 12, 1955. She transferred her membership to the First Lutheran Church of Rock Port. Eleanor was an honorary member of

MAS-COE; member of National NARFE; member of Ralph. Greer Unit #49 Legion Auxiliary; member of Salon #816, 8 & 40; member of Chapter 835 NARFE; and First Lutheran Church of Rock Port Circle.

Survivors include her daughters, Marvetta Leseberg and Jackie VanGundy; brothers, Leland and Roland Ebert; sister, Jo Carlene Norwood; and grandchildren, Jordan Zane and Mikaila Elaine Holmes, Vanessa Paige and Kelcy Jo Van Gundy.
Preceding Eleanor in death were her husband, Marvin; parents, Carl and Johanna Ebert; sister, Phyllis Jean Ebert; and grandson, Colby VanGundy. Memorials may be directed to the First Lutheran Church, Rock Port. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 23, 2002

 

McConnell, John Arthur -

John Arthur McConnell, Fairfax, died Aug. 10 at the Medicenter Nursing Home in Omaha, Nebr. after a long illness. He was 81.
He was born April 18, 1897 in the York community near Tarkio, the son of the late Clark and Margaret McConnell. He was a member of the United Presbyterian Church at York.
He farmed in the Fairfax community for most of his life, and retired approximately 10 years ago.
He was a charter member of the John Richards American Legion Post.
Survivors include one brother, Charley McConnell of Tulsa, Okla.; two sisters, Mrs. Helen Sly and Marguerite McConnell, both of Fairfax; and nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at the Schooler Funeral Home with the Rev. Rick Gressman officiating. He was buried in the Pleasant Ridge Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Edward Ball, Robert Gaines, B. W. Umbarger, H. Q. Gomel, Darrell Jones and Thomas Miller.
Mrs. Sylvia Moore was in charge of the music.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Aug 17, 1978

 

Mills, James - James Mills, 27-year-old son of Mr and Mrs Jess Mills of Fairfax, died Tuesday evening, June 20 at the Fairfax Community hospital where he had been a patient nearly two months. Mills was critically injured in an automobile accident near Burlington Junction April 16. He was taken to the Kansas Univeristy Medical Center for surgery and then brought to the Fairfax hospital. He never regained consciousness after the accident.

Funeral services will be held at the Baptist Church in Tarkio, Friday afternoon at 2:00, with Rev Wm. Strickland in charge. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Jun 22, 1967

 

 

O'Riley, Paul -

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m., Monday, May 20, 2002, at St, Gregory Barbarigo Catholic Church in Maryville, MO, for Paul O'Riley, Fairfax, MO. Father Reginald Sander, OSB, officiated. Interment was made at St. Patrick's Cemetery, Maryville. Services were under the direction of Price Funeral Home, Maryville.
Paul Gerald O'Riley, the son of Francis P. and Margaret E. (Linville) O'Riley, was born on July 8, 1923, in Burlington Junction, MO. Paul passed away suddenly at his home on Thursday, May 16, 2002, at the age of 78 years. Paul was united in marriage to Marjorie Jean McEnaney on June 1, 1949, in Maryville.
Paul was a graduate of Skidmore High School, Skidmore, MO. He was a member of St. Paul, the Apostle, Parish in Tarkio, MO. Paul was a farmer and livestock man.
Survivors include Paul's wife, Marjorie, of the home-five daughters, Sharon Barlow, Clarinda, IA, Paula Smith, Fairfax, MO, Debbie Hawkins, Ozark, MO, Vicky Hilsabeck, Maryville, and Joni Amthor, Tarkio, MO; one son, Mark O'Riley, Fairfax; 14 grandchildren; two great­grandchildren; one brother, Robert O'Riley, Graham, MO; three sisters, Mrs. Mary Growney and Mrs. Margaret Merrigan, both of Maryville, and Mrs. Pat Briles, Creston, IA; and many nieces and nephews.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Philip, Fred and Bill O'Riley. Memorials may be directed to the St. Paul, the Apostle, Catholic Church in Tarkio or the Fairfax Girls' Athletic Department at Fairfax.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 23, 2002

Plumb, Helen -

Graveside services were held for Helen Plumb at English Grove Cemetery, west of Fairfax, Thursday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Clyde Hendricks.
Helen Violet Plumb was born April 18, 1908 daughter of Lewis and Mary Emma Wakefield Plumb in Fairfax. She attended the Irish Grove school and made her home in the Rock Port, Oregon communities, and the last five years resided at a Tarkio rest home. She died Oct. 2, 1979 at the Fairfax hospital at the age of 71 years.
Miss Plumb was a loyal church worker as long as her health permitted, and she was a member of the Fairfax Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents and four brothers. Survivors include one brother, Harry R. Plumb. Omaha. Nebr.; eight nieces and nephews.
The family requested memorials to Community Hospital. Fairfax.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Oct 11, 1979


Poppa, Renee Elizabeth -

Renee Elizabeth Poppa, daughter of Michael L. and Michelle Renee (Ney) Poppa, was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on August 8, 1989. Renee was a student at the Tarkio R-I Schools and was preparing to enter the 8th grade. She was extremely athletic and loved sports, especially baseball, girls' Softball, volleyball arid track. Last year she was a member of the Atchison County C.A.B.A. Baseball Team and had previously played flag football for two years.
Besides being an honor roll student, Renee was very artistic and enjoyed playing the saxophone. She enjoyed her family and loved to buy things for her mother and brother, Austin. With her gentle and tenderhearted personality, she was always helping people and was a wonderful friend to all. Some of her favorite activities were hanging out with the guys and scooping sidewalks in the winter.
Renee was a member of the St. John's Lutheran Church of Westboro, Missouri. She passed away at Community Hospital in Fairfax, Missouri, on June 27, 2002, at the age of 12 years, 10 months and 19 days.
Survivors include her parents, Michael and Michelle, and brother, Austin Poppa, all of the home in Tarkio, Missouri; maternal grandparents, Melvin and Belva Ney of Phoenix; paternal grandparents, Larry and Cheryl Poppa of Tarkio; and aunts, uncles and cousins.
She was preceded in death by paternal great-grandparents, Ray and Dorothy Smith and Grant and Agnes Poppa.
Funeral services were held on Monday, July 1,2002 at 10:00 AM at the St. John's Lutheran Church, Westboro, Missouri and were conducted by Pastor Richard Pearson.
Interment at St. John's Cemetery, Westboro, Missouri.
Memorials may be directed to the Renee Poppa Memorial Fund.
Services were under the direction of Davis Funeral Home in Tarkio, Missouri. ATCHISON COUNTY MAIL, Rock Port, THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Jul 4, 2002

 

Raiser, Edna M. - Edna M. Raiser, age 94, Craig, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, May 9, 2002, at Community Hospital in Fairfax. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 13, 2002, at the Church of the Nazarene, Craig. Interment was at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery, Craig, under the direction of Pettijohn and Crawford Family Funeral Service, Mound City, Missouri. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 16, 2002

 

Resler, James Edgar "Jim" -

Funeral services were held Friday, July 29,2005, at 11:00 a.m. at the Presbyterian Church, Fairfax, Missouri, for James E. Resler of Gladstone, Missouri, formerly of Fairfax. Services were conducted by Rev. Sean Martin and interment was held in English Grove Cemetery, Fairfax. Funeral services were under the direction of Davis Funeral Home in Tarkio, Missouri.
James Edgar (Jim) Resler, the son of Robert H. and Eula (Jones) Resler, was born on December 16, 1947, in rural Hamburg, Iowa. James received his early education in the Irish Grove country school and graduated from Fairfax High School in 1965. He attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri, for two years.

After college, Jim was employed by the Atchison County Highway Department for two years. He was then employed by the Missouri Department of Transportation for 28 years. In 1983, he transferred to Gladstone, Missouri, and continued his work there. In 1997, ill health forced his retirement as a construction inspector with the Missouri Department of Transportation.
Jim was a member of the Gashland Presbyterian Church in Gladstone. He was a lifetime member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, and a former member of the Northland Community Choir and the Model Railroad Association.
Jim passed away Monday, July 25, 2005, at the Heartland East Hospital in St. Joseph, Missouri, at the age of 57 years. He is survived by his mother, Eula G. Resler, and one brother, Robert F. Resler, both of Fairfax; and numerous cousins.Besides his father, Robert H. (Bob) Resler, who passed away in 1971, Jim was preceded in death by his brother Tom H. Resler, in 1978. Memorials may be directed to the James E. Resler Memorial Fund for the Fairfax Presbyterian Church, Fairfax; or Gashland Presbyterian Church, Gladstone, Missouri. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Aug 4, 2005

 

Salfrank, Gladys Isabelle Whited -

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 5, 2001, at Pettijohn and Crawford Family Funeral Service in Mound City, MO, for Gladys Isabelle Salfrank, Mound City. Interment was made at Home Cemetery, Tarkio, MO. Services were under the direction of Pettijohn and Crawford Family Funeral Service, Mound City.
Gladys Isabelle (Whited) Salfrank, 9.5, passed away Sunday, December 2, 2001, at a Mound City health care center. She was born December 5,1905, in Lone Star, MO, daughter of Will and Ethel (Noble) Whited. Later the family moved to the Bellevue community, just north of Mound City in the 1930's. Gladys attended school in Allendale and Martinsville, MO. She spent most of her life in the Mound City area.
Gladys was a homemaker and worked as a cook for several years at the Walnut Inn in Tarkio, and later as a nurses' aide at the former Baines Nursing Home in Mound City. On April 26, 1933, Gladys married Walter L. Salfrank in Rock Port, MO. Walter passed away January 10, 1976.
Survivors include Gladys' son, Jim Salfrank of Mound City, MO; two daughters, Shirley Haer, Villisca, IA, and Sharon Blanton, St. Joseph, MO; brother, Donald Whited, Tarkio, MO; sister, Virginia Nuckolls, Shenandoah, Ia; six grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; nine greatgrandchildren; and six stepgreat grandchildren.

Besides her parents and husband, Walter, Gladys was preceded in death by her brother, Kenneth Whited; three sisters, Jewell Whited, Goldie Wells, and Maxine Bryant; and a grandson, David Bingaman. Memorials may be directed to Hands of Hope Hospice. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Dec 31, 2001

 

Sims, Imogene -


Funeral services were held Tuesday morning for Mrs Imogene Sims at the Fairfax Christian Church, conducted by Rev. Tim McFarland, assisted by Rev. Reid Swindler.
Mrs. Raymond Mitchell and Mrs. Gary Cooper were in charge of music. Pallbearers were Larry Sims, H.K. Higginbotham, Dave Dollar, Charles Norton, Bob Gaines and Carson McCormack. Interment was in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, family requests memorials to the Community Hospital, Fairfax.

Malinda Imogene Gunn Sims was born on a farm near Huntsville, Missouri on August 22, 1890. She was the youngest of the eleven children of Nicholas Matlock Gunn and Martha Imogene Thomas, both members of families dating back to Revoluntionary War days and to pre-Civil War days in Central Missouri. She died at the Fairfax Community Hospital following a brief illness on May 20.

She was married on August 2, 1907 to L. Roy Sims of Prairie Hill, Missouri and thus began a weekly newspaper publishing team that lasted for over fifty years. Their papers were in seven different communities in Missouri and Iowa before they purchased the Fairfax Forum in 1934 and established their home in this community.
Both of their sons joined them in the publishing and printing business. Following Mr. Sims' death in 1960, she continued to work in the newspaper office until she was past 75 years of age.

Her interest in the local news of Fairfax residents never waned.
Through the years she was active in all the affairs of the Christian Church. Other activities were in the Fairfax Garden Club; the Northwest Missouri Press Association, Sorosis. Tamasha Club, and Daughters of the American Revolution.

In 1965 she was chosen to receive the Matrix Award for contributions in the field of Community Journalism by the Kansas City Chapter of Theta Sigma Phi, a national organization composed of women in the field of journalism and communications.
Mr. and Mrs. Sims had four children: Earle E.. Fairfax, for over 40 years associated with his parents in the newspaper business; Helen M., Overland Park, Kans., also a journalist and associated with the University of Kansas Medical Center: Chloe Maurine, who died in 1959; and Roy, Jr.. Mound City, now the publisher of the Mound City News-Independent.

There are five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 24, 1979

 

Smith, Darlene Hancock

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, 2002, at the Presbyterian Church in Fairfax for Darlene Smith, Fairfax. Rev. Chet Mason officiated. Interment was made in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, Fairfax, under the direction of Schooler Funeral Home, Fairfax.
Darlene Smith, age 74, passed away on Friday, April 5, 2002, at Clarkson Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. She was born December 5, 1927, to William B. and Sarah Maytle (Harvill) Hancock. We have all heard the story of how they kept their two-pound daughter in a shoe box on the oven door. At the age of nine, Darlene's father passed away and her grandparents helped to raise her and her siblings, Bill, Dot and Kelly. When her mother, Tillie, married Carl Loveland, she was blessed with another sister, Shirley.
Darlene graduated from Fairfax High School in 1946. As a young girl, Darlene started working as a waitress and stayed in the restaurant business for many years of her life, Darlene married Floyd Dunkle and they were blessed with the births of two children, Carol and Randy. They were later divorced. Darlene was then married to Stanley Smith, and they were blessed with the births of Trudy and Scott. During those years she was a partner with Stan in his trucking business and later in the farming partnership with Stan's brother, Max. She also worked during those years as a clerk at the Pearce Gift and Hobby in Fairfax. After Stan's passing in 1976, Darlene bought the restaurant, Darlene's Cafe, in Fairfax. Darlene's was the morning gathering spot for area Fairfax residents until she sold the business to her son, Randy, and his wife, Connie.
Darlene enjoyed people and made many friends during her years of working with the public at the city and county elections in Fairfax. Darlene also enjoyed her Pinochle Club, the hospital auxiliary, the Fairfax Community Betterment, and helping with the Fairfax Alumni Banquets. Darlene was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Fairfax, where she served as a deacon. Darlene not only kept active in serving her community but she was also the biggest supporter of her children and grandchildren. She spent many hours in the bleachers, always cheering them on. Her family always knew they could count on "Nanny", as her grandkids called her, to be there whenever needed to help out in any way she could.
Darlene will be missed but lovingly remembered by her daughter, Carol Graves, St. Joseph, Missouri; daughter-in-law, Connie Dunkle, Fairfax, Missouri; daughter, Trudy, and son-in-law, Rick Martin, Tarkio, Missouri; and son, Scott Smith, and daughter-in-law, Kelly, Kansas City, Missouri; six grandchildren, Micki Davis and husband, Nate, Kearney, Missouri, Heather VanGundy, Graham, Missouri, Eric Dunkle and wife, Becky, Shenandoah, Iowa, Clayton Dunkle, Maryville, Missouri, Summer VanGundy, Stilwell, Kansas, and Jordan Smith, Kansas City; three great­grandchildren, Megan Neihart and Ashton Dunkle, Shenandoah, and Brock Davis, Kearney; sisters, Dot Wichman, Beaver Crossing, Nebraska, and Shirley Hen-ning, Tarkio; and brother, Kelly Hancock, Papillion, Nebraska.
Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Stanley; son, Randy Dunkle; brother, Bill Hancock; and her stepfather, Carl Loveland.
Darlene faced many tragedies and had to struggle through many difficulties during her life. One of the many things she taught her family through it all was to be grateful for all the blessings of life and to cherish the good times and to put God and family first in all you do. The many family and friends who helped Darlene through her illness proved that she was loved and was cherished for all of her kindness. Memorials may be directed to the Fairfax Presbyterian Church.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Apr 11, 2002


Smith, Marlin "Corky" -

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2002, at Price Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri, for Marlin K. "Corky" Smith, Maryville, formerly of Fairfax. Pastor Greg Temke officiated. The body was cremated following the funeral service and burial will be held at a later date.

Marlin K. "Corky" Smith, age 68, passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2002, at his home in Maryville. He was born on September   1,   1933, to Herbert and Leona (Neice) Smith in Fairfax. Corky was a graduate of Fairfax High School in Fairfax. He married Marilyn Jane Grindstaff on July 8,1951, in Hamburg, Iowa.
Corky owned and operated M&M Feed in Maryville. He was a member of the Fairfax Presbyterian Church in Fairfax and attended Community of Faith Church in Maryville. Corky is also a former member of the Fairfax Masonic Lodge in Fairfax.

Survivors include his wife Marilyn, Fairfax; four sons and daughters-in-law, Tim and Kelly Smith, Las Vegas, Nevada, Rod and Kathy Smith, Blair, Nebraska, Mark and Jody Smith, New York, New York, and Brian and Dana Smith, Red Oak, Iowa; daughter and son-in-law, Angela and Troy DeLong, Gardner, Kansas; two brothers, Eugene and Jim Smith, Fairfax; four grandchildren, Jeff and Sarah Smith, Omaha, Nebraska, Jillian Smith, Omaha, Ashley Smith, Las Vegas, and Corie and Tyler DeLong, Gardner.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, May 16, 2002

 

Smith, Sara Idell Roberts -

Sara Idell Smith, 90, who spent most of her life in Tarkio, died July 21 in the Fairfax Community Hospital.
Mrs. Smith was born March 3, 1886, in Morristown, Tenn. to Thomas and Delilah Roberts. She moved to Tarkio during early womanhood and married Albert Smith in 1905. He died in 1959. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Tarkio.
The Rev. Clyde Hendricks officiated at the funeral, which was July 24 at the Davis Funeral Home. She was laid to rest in the Tarkio Home Cemetery.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, two sisters and three brothers. She is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

TARKIO AVALANCHE, Tarkio, Missouri, Jul 29, 1976

 

 

 

Southard, Lauren Eileen - Funeral services were held at 2 pm on Friday, December 14, 2001, at the United Methodist Church in Fairfax, for Lauren Eileen Southard, Eldon, Missouri, formerly of Fairfax. Rev Steve Pinnell officiated. Interment was made in Center Grove Cemetery, Westboro, Missouri, under the direction of Hedges Funeral Home, Osage Beach, Missouri.

Lauren Eileen Southard, age 16, passed away on Tuesday morning, December 11, 2001, from injuries sustained in an auto accident. Lauren was born on October 21, 1985, in Fairfax, a daughter to Phillip Allen and Eileen Leirer Southard.

Lauren was a sophomore at the School of the Osage, a member of the choir, band for three years, and a member of S.T.A.R., the Ecology Club, and the United Methodist Church in Fairfax. She was attending the United Methodist Church in Eldon, Missouri.

She is survived by her mother and stepdad, Eileen and Roger Bisges, of Eldon; one brother, Thomas Allen Southard, Nashville, Tennessee; maternal grandparents, Thomas and Elaine Leirer, Ft. Myers, Florida; paternal grandparents, Doyle and Esther Southard, Fairfax; stepbrother, John Bisges, Eldon; stepsister, Sarah Bisges, Eldon; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Phillip Southard. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Dec 20, 2001

 

Stewart, Janet Violet -

Janet Violet Stewart, age 92, of Grinnell, Iowa, formerly of Fairfax, died Monday, April 14, 2003, at the Mayflower Home Health Care Center in Grinnell. She was born on March 3, 1911, to William and Addie : Mae (McClurg) Stewart, and was raised on the family farm in Athchison County near Fairfax. Janet was a graduate of Daleview High School.

A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 19,2003, at the Carman Center in the Mayflower Home. Memorials may be directed to the Mayflower Human Needs Fund or to Grinnell Hospice.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Apr 24, 2003

 

Stoner, Fred A. -

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 15, 2005, at the Fairfax Presbyterian Church for Fred A. Stoner, Fairfax. Rev. Nancy Profit officiated. Interment was made in English Grove Cemetery, Fairfax, under the direction of Schooler Funeral Home, Fairfax.
Fred A. Stoner, age 64, passed away on Monday, July 11, 2005, in Lincoln, Nebraska. Fred was born April 11, 1941, in Maryville, Missouri. He graduated in 1959 from Fairfax High School. Fred joined the United States Marine Corps in 1962 and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. Fred returned to Fairfax and worked at Stoner's Machine Shop with his dad.
In 1966 he moved to Omaha, Nebraska, to work in the timber business with Marvin Jones. Fred stayed in Omaha until 1969, when he returned to Fairfax. Fred moved his family to Louisville, Nebraska, in 1971, and worked with the railroad as a welder. Fred and his family returned to Fairfax in 1986. He worked at the shop until 1994 when he suffered a heart attack. In failing health, he turned his attention to more domestic ventures such as cooking and quilting.

Fred was preceded in death by his father, Beuford Stoner. He is survived by his wife, Debbie; his mother, Ethel Stoner; 10 children, Gina Stoner, Stacie and Doug Speicher, Shawn and Kerri Stoner, Jason and Michelle Stoner, Chris and Danielle Johnson, Matt and Mary Johnson, Shawn Johnson, and Amy, Samantha and Bridgette Stoner; six grandchildren, Erica Schafer, Emilie Weekly, Megan Speicher, Jayton Johnson, Alexandria Stoner and Elliot Stoner; one sister, Susie and Bill Spence; one nephew, Scott and Cortney Spence; one grandniece, Sabrina Lapham; and one aunt, Margret Stoner. Memorials may be directed to Fred's family in care of Schooler Funeral Home.

THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Jul 21, 2005

 

Stoner, Gilbert Oral -

Funeral services were held Saturday, June 17 at the Craig Church of the Nazarene for Gilbert Stoner, with Rev. Daniel Westveer officiating.
Miss Becky Snider, pianist, accompanied Abie Showalter, Duane Showalter, Lloyd Whitham and David Schmidt, as they sang "It Is Well With My Soul" and "Abide With Me".
Gilbert Oral Stoner, son of Mr. and Mrs. Grant Stoner, was born near Watson, Mo., March 4, 1896 and died at a St. Joseph hospital June 15, 1967, at the age of 71 years, 3 months and 11 days.
He was married May 21, 1928 to Minnie Cora Howard of Maysville, Mo. To this union four children were born: Mrs. Betty Douglas, Tecumseh, Nebr.; Jack Stoner, Craig; W. G. Stoner of Weeping Water, Nebr.; Mrs. Esther DeVault, Graham.
He was preceeded in death by his parents; one sister, Mrs. Eunice Moore; two brothers, Guy and Earl.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Minnie Stoner of the home; his children; two sisters: Mrs. Ella Collins of Omaha, Nebr. and Mrs. Everett Cloepfil of Rock Port; and seven grandchildren.
He was a member of the High Creek Baptist church, Watson.
Pallbearers were: David Nauman, Loyal Nauman, Benson Gaffney, Jimmie Thomson, Orvis McCall and Delmon Carlton.
Burial was in IOOF cemetery near Craig. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Jun 22, 1967

 

Whitford, Evelyn Ann Ball -

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Monday, December 17, 2001, at the Presbyterian Church in Fairfax, Missouri, for Evelyn Whitford, Fairfax. Rev. Chet Mason officiated. Interment was made in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, Fairfax, under the direction of Schooler Funeral Home, Fairfax.
Evelyn Ann Whitford, age 80, passed away on Friday, December 14, 2001, at Clarkson Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. She was born on March 21, 1921, to William J. and Helen Bayha Ball at the family farm near Fairfax. Evelyn attended Elk Dale School through tenth grade and then attended Fairfax High School, graduating in 1938.
Evelyn married Wayne Whitford on January 7, 1940, at the Fairfax Presbyterian Manse. He preceded her in death in 1998. Evelyn worked at the Fairfax Manufacturing Company and was later employed as a cook for the Fairfax R-3 Schools for over 20 years. She also served as a leader of the Wolverine 4-H Club for over 25 years.
Evelyn was a member of the Fairfax Presbyterian Church, currently serving as a deacon. She was a member of the 49'ers Hobby Club and the Fairfax Community Hospital Auxiliary. Evelyn enjoyed attending her familys' school and sports' activities. She was devoted to her children and grandchildren, and she loved working around the farm.
Evelyn was also preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, William Herman and Warren C. Ball.
Survivors include her children and their spouses, Brenda and Steve Scamman, Rock Port, Missouri, Marilyn and Richard Logerwell, Kearney, Missouri, Richard and Deanna Whitford, Kearney, and Linda Whitford, Raymore, Missouri; grandchildren, Kimberly Scamman, Topeka, Kansas, Stephanie
Scamman, Bethany, Missouri, Cory Scamman, Rock Port, Gary and Kellie Logerwell and Michael, Greg Logerwell, Kansas City, Missouri, Brett Logerwell, Kearney, and Brad, Brooke and Beth Whitford, St Joseph, Missouri; brothers, Ed Ball, Fairfax, and Marion Ball, Skidmore, Missouri; and sisters, Eva Helen Johnson, Mound City, Missouri, and Barbara Jones, Fairfax. Memorials may be directed to the following: Fairfax R-3 School Athletic Boosters, Fairfax R-3 School Library or the Fairfax Presbyterian Church. THE FAIRFAX FORUM, Fairfax, Missouri, Dec 20, 2001