Mn Board of Education Steps in to Help Willmar School System
Leon Roy Seefeld, 77, of Harvey, ND died after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, November 26, 2021, surrounded by his family at a Fargo healthcare center.
A recording of the service will be posted here within 48 hours after the service.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 4, 2021 at the St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Selz with burial following in the church cemetery. Visitation will begin at 4 p.m. Friday at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Selz and will be followed by a Rosary Service at 6:30 p.m. and a Prayer Service beginning at 7 p.m.
Leon was born on April 24, 1944, in Harvey, ND to Arnold and Ida (Mertz) Seefeld. He was raised on a farm in southern Pierce County beside Antelope Lake. He grew up in a hardworking, fun-loving close-knit family. Leon attended a one room classroom school in Truman township. He joined the ND Army National Guard in 1963 and was honorably discharged in 1969.
Leon met the love of his life, Catherine (Lageson) at a dance in Selz, ND. They were married on September 1, 1972, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Selz, ND. They were blessed with their children Janell, Colleen, Ross, and Sarah all of whom he was very proud of.
For 44 years Leon worked road construction as a truck driver all over North Dakota. He could tell you something about every single little town, but most importantly where all the good ice cream shops were.
Leon's full-time passion was raising registered Polled Hereford cattle. He took great pride in raising the best stock he could, becoming a respected cattleman across the state. In 2015, he was awarded the North Dakota Hereford Breeder of the Year. Leon valued being with his fellow cattlemen, making special friendships along the way. He also volunteered his time teaching cattle showmanship skills to youth in 4-H and FFA.
Leon looked forward to spending time with his neighbors and friends, always enjoying good food, a good laugh and a good game of cards. Another past time of Leon's was his love of music. He and Cathy attended many polka, bluegrass, and old country concerts throughout the years. They looked forward to their annual trip to the Medora Musical. Leon was always tapping his toe or whistling, especially to the radio on Sunday afternoons. He did his best to live his life in the way of serving others. He was a long-time active member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, Harvey Rural Fire Department, Eagles Club, American Legion, Hereford Association and ND Stockman's Association.
Most importantly was Leon's faith. He lived it himself and taught his children to practice it daily, to treat others how you want to be treated, to value the meaning of hard work, to take pride in what you do and to use good old fashion common sense. He taught them over the years the ability to have a conversation with anyone they meet.
Leon is survived by his dedicated wife, Catherine, his children, Janell Seefeld, Moorhead, MN; Colleen (Corey) Aas, Moorhead, MN; Ross (Darcy) Seefeld, Ellendale, ND; and Sarah (Kyle) Helm, Williston, ND; eight grandchildren: Codilynn (Cody), Blake, Nickolas, Hannah, Peyton, Annaliese, Clayton and Alyssa; two great grandchildren: Emory and Juniper; brothers, Francis (Sally), Arnold Jr (Rose); sisters: Rita (Jerry) Weippert, DeLilah Volk and many nieces and nephews. Leon was preceded in death by his parents, infant sister Theresa and brother-in-law Gerald Volk. A life well lived Leon…"Well done, good and faithful servant…" Matthew 25:23.
Cora Mae Amdor Goggins of Ennis, 92, passed away on November 29, 2021. She was born on March 3, 1929, to Earl and Cora Hamel Amdor in Harlowton, Montana. Her dad worked for the railroad, and she grew up in Harlowton, Sand Springs, and Miles City, graduating from Harlowton High School in 1946. She worked at the local soda fountain through school and a good-looking, red-headed young man was a regular patron. The day after she graduated from high school that young man, Bob Goggins, asked her for a date and they were married on October 30, 1946. This began an epic journey of over 71 years together.
In 1948, they moved to Bear Creek at Cameron, Montana, where Bob was the herdsman for Orr Herefords. Cora made a deal with Mrs. Orr to cook the noon meal for the crew all summer, making enough so Mrs. Orr had leftovers for supper. In lieu of payment, Mrs. Orr gave Cora a Hereford steer. Bob fed and fitted the steer and showed him at the Montana Winter Fair where he was named Grand Champion. He sold for $1000, which was quite a sum in the late 1940s. She always joked that was the best paid cooking gig she ever had. In 1959, Bob and Cora bought the home ranch a mile north of Ennis where they raised their family and high-quality Hereford cattle. Cora was well known for her cooking and baking, and it is no coincidence that the livestock fieldmen would drive into the ranch around 11:00 am to look through the cattle, knowing that Cora always served a big ranch dinner at noon. Over the years, she cooked for big cattle working crews and family gatherings and was also famous for her delicious roast beef lunch at the annual bull sale, including her famous Montana wheat salad.
As well-known as she was for her cooking, her baked goods were legendary. When her kids were growing up, she would send baked goods to the school bake sales, but the items seldom made it to the table to be sold because people lurked by the door and pounced upon Cora's kids to buy whatever Cora had sent with them. Her cookies, dinner rolls, and donuts were amazing, but her homemade bread was the stuff of legend. Cora taught catechism, was a Cub Scout den mother, and a supportive 4-H mom. She volunteered at the Ennis School Library for many years, combining two of her favorite things, kids and books. She also volunteered at the Madison Valley Manor and the Nearly New Shoppe. She served on the Madison County Planning Board, the Madison County Library Board, and was an active member of the Madison Valley CattleWomen.
Cora is survived by her daughters, sons, and daughters-in-law who she considered daughters, Betty Goggins, Janet Endecott, Terri Goggins, Jim and Shelly Goggins, and Pat and Michelle Goggins, as well as grandchildren Coralee (Chad) Butterfield, Rachel Endecott, and Coy (Valene) Goggins, and great-grandchildren Aaron and Marlee Butterfield. Other survivors include sisters Sue (Gary) Foust, Alice (Don) Crum, sisters-in-law Babe Goggins and Millie Goggins, and brother-in-law George Ellinghouse, along with many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband Bob Goggins, son Bob Goggins, and son-in-law Bob Endecott, parents Earl and Cora Amdor, stepmother Elizabeth Amdor, brother Bill Amdor, and sisters and brothers-in-law Marlene and Bill Moody and Betty and Gene Gunlock.
Cora will be remembered as a pillar of the community, a steadfast ranching partner, and a supportive and loving mother and grandmother. A private family service is planned. Memorials may be made to Madison Valley Medical Center, PO Box 993, Ennis, MT 59729, or St. Patrick's Catholic Church, PO Box 17, Sheridan, MT 59749.
Living a life full of fun, travel, flowers, and family Alma "Jean" Schohr, 90, of Gridley, California, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, November 16th, 2021.
Jean was the daughter of Carl and Abbie (McKenzie) Bachels, born in San Jose, Calif., on May 16, 1931. She grew up on her family's McKenzie Guest Ranch in Mohawk Valley located near Graeagle, California, with her sister, Louise who was 10 years older.
Her early schooling was nearby in the valley in the Sulfur Springs one room schoolhouse. School was during the summer after snowmelt, which, according to her, was an uphill walk, both ways! She later attended Portola High, graduating in 1949.
During WWII, Jean, along with her family, spent time in the Kilkare Woods area in the East Bay, near Sunol, where her father helped lumber operations in support of war efforts. Her favorite recollections were stories of her childhood on the guest ranch, with mountain adventures in the Sierras, cooking, caring for livestock, gardening, and helping her family with guests from all over that helped shape her life, caring spirit, and work ethic.
Her favorite guest? The man who went on to be the love of her life. The story goes, Douglas Schohr fell for the love of his life, when a bear hunting trip to Plumas County was canceled, requiring an overnight stay at the McKenzie Guest Ranch. The pair had met once previously in 1945, but rekindled love took hold in 1949. Jean always claimed he still ended up with a bear! The two were married on January 20, 1951. Doug & Jean "strolled the lane together, laughed in the rain together, and both knew then that it would never end." They were happily married 61 years, until Doug's passing in 2012.
While Doug was serving in the United States Army, Jean attended the California State College in Chico (CSU, Chico) teaching program while continuing to help her family on the guest ranch. They would exchange letters often during this time, expressing their love for each other. In 1952, Doug returned from Korea and home to Gridley alongside his wife to farm on the Schohr Ranch west of town.
They built their family and life in a renovated "Bunkhouse" on the ranch, welcoming 3 boys, Carl, Jim and Bill. Raising these boys was a challenge, she would remark "one boy all boy, two boys some boy, three boys no boy" referring to their decision making! Jean, known as "Mimi" to most, was a mountain girl at heart. She loved going to the cabin her father built in Sierra County to smell the essence of fresh pine and cedar in the afternoon "Mariah" winds, drinking water from the spring, strolling the meadow for a bouquet of wildflowers, and cooking on the wood fire griddle outside. She was a connoisseur of her grandchildren's "mud" pies there and loved a good book on the porch while tanning her legs! She enjoyed cooking, canning, baking, knitting, working in her yard, watering, mowing the lawn, pruning roses, watering, feeding the birds, rearranging the flowerpots and more watering!
Most of her cherished travels and memories were spent with her 7 Grandchildren and 11 Great Grandchildren traveling and participating in their activities. For 3 generations she made sure youth sports were cheered on, 4-H whites were starched and blue FFA jackets cleaned, ready for the show or convention. Mickey Mouse knew her well, as there was hardly a calendar without a trip to Disneyland planned for her, Papa Doug and family. She celebrated her 90th birthday at the "Happiest Place on Earth."
Her legacy continues to live on through her family, son Carl and his wife Susan (Orme) of Gridley; son Jim, of Star, Idaho; son Bill and his wife Lisa (Butler), of Gridley; and niece Abbie Beran of Chico. Grandchildren include Ryan Schohr and his wife Holly Whittaker, of Chico; Steven and his wife Amanda (Farrah) Schohr of Oroville, Jamie (Schohr) and husband Mark Owens of Eagle, Idaho, Tracy Schohr and Ryan Imbach of Gridley; Lee and his wife Taylor (Steadman) Schohr of Meridian, Idaho; Tayler (Schohr) and her husband Bryce Brumley of Orovada, Nevada, and Justin Schohr of Gridley. Great Grandchildren include Kylee and Makenzie Owens; Colton Imbach; Cash Brumley, Brock Schohr; Madison Schohr; Joseph, Madeline and Aiden Schohr; and Steele and Tayson Schohr.
Per her wishes, there is a PARTY to celebrate Mimi's life planned for 11:30 AM, Thursday, December 9th, 2021, at the Gridley Moose Lodge, 1533 State Highway 99 in Gridley. In Jean's honor and in lieu of flowers, the family has requested contributions be made to Gridley FFA (300 E. Spruce Street, Gridley, CA 95948) or CSU, Chico, College of Agriculture Scholarship Fund (400 W. Frist Street, Chico, CA 95929-0999). Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.
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James Edward Courtney was born October 29, 1931 to James M. and Dorothea (Bischoff) Courtney at the beginning of the Great Depression …drought, dust and hard times were all Dad knew during his early childhood. This humble, meager beginning lit a fire within Dad to make everything he was involved in or touched "better!" Never one to fuss about the negatives of a situation, Dad looked at life through the lens that, with hard work and determination, things could be done better and smarter. He finished his earthly journey on November 19, 2021 at the Spearfish (SD) Canyon Rehab.
Funeral services will be held in Belle Fourche, SD on Saturday, November 27, 2021 at St. Paul Catholic Church at 10:30 a.m. with Visitation at Leverington Funeral Home of the Northern Hills on November 26, 4-6 p.m. followed by a Wake at the Church at 7 p.m. Interment will take place in Pine Slope Cemetery.
Jim's funeral will be broadcasted live online, on his obituary page located on the funeral home's website: www.LeveringtonFH.com, where there is also a video tribute available to view.\
With only a high school education, Dad was gifted with a vision and determination to succeed at ranching and raising livestock that few possessed. His passion was to raise the best sheep and cattle, otherwise, why put out the effort. He also felt an obligation to belong to organizations that worked to protect the land and that championed Agriculture. Throughout his life, he belonged to many county, state and national organizations and was often elected to leadership positions.
Dad married Hazel Summers on June 14, 1953. Ranching with sheep and Herefords, Dad and Mom were the perfect team and raised our family to know hard work, to resiliently endure storms and setbacks, yet learn to adapt as we faced challenges. The fifth Courtney generation is now calling the ranch home continuing to build on the foundation laid by decades of commitment and perserverance. Dad's life was a master class in taking modest beginnings forward to a life well lived and passing it on to the next generation!
After Mom passed in 2001, Dad married Della Crago in 2002 and they shared a love for Herefords and ranch life. Della passed in 2012. Alone again, he found companionship with Sondra Giacometto and they married in 2013.
We marveled at Dad's ability to "never stop living." During the past couple years, he faced health issues including heart valve replacement with a steady resolve to get better, but he never stopped driving to the ranch, going to great grandkids' programs and attending community events. He was passionate about living. He lived a full, ambitious and very accomplished life that impacted many. We are proud to be his family.
Left to miss him are wife Sondra; daughter Lezlie and husband Larry Moore, Vivian, SD; daughter Colleen Courtney, Belle Fourche, SD; son Tom and wife Jody, Alzada, MT; 13 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren; sister Virginia Ludwick and her children Roger and Jo and their families; Hazel's brother Ned Summers and wife Patsy and their family. Also saddened by his passing are Sondra's children Sabrina, Leo, Joe and John and their families.
Dad was preceded in death by his parents, wife Hazel, daughter Jeanne Wombold, a stillborn daughter, second wife Della, brother-in-law Bill Ludwick and Hazel's sister Betty and her husband Edwin Loken.
To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Jim Courtney, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
Arlo Janssen, 82, died in Klamath Falls, OR, on Nov. 4. He was born Jan. 8, 1939, to Herschel "Pete" Janssen and Marian Craig Janssen. He married Abbie Ryan on March 17, 1967, and they had one daughter, Andra Campbell, on Dec. 15, 1971. Arlo and Abbie divorced in 1973.
Arlo was active in sports in high school and received a full ride scholarship to Kansas State University for basketball. In typical Arlo style, he walked into and out of his first classroom the same day. He served in the Army from 1961-1963, stationed in Paris.
Arlo's passion was showing cattle, and he hit the trail from his hometown of Lorraine, KS, where he had a farm and started fitting and showing registered Hereford cattle. He formed Mid-America Cattle Co., a professional fitting and showing service, and hauled cattle all over the country. Arlo moved to Darby, MT, continuing on with his fitting service.
L1 Pacesetter was the 1983 and 1984 National Western grand champion bull and set the pace in the '80s as the two-time champion and one of best breeding bulls of all time. L1 Challenger was the 1984 reserve champion at the National Western, Show Bull of the Year and five-time Register of Merit (ROM) champion. Arlo exhibited the grand champion bull at five of the nine ROM shows that year. He was named Top Herdsman during the 1984 stock show.
Shifting between Montana, Wyoming and Colorado, Arlo continued showing cattle and spending the summers in the mountains on horseback, which was his other passion. Few people know how much Arlo loved horses and mules. He also loved the mountains, and his wish was to be cremated and his ashes spread in the mountains of Wyoming.
Arlo judged several county fairs, state fairs and jackpot shows—including the 1972 National Junior Angus Showmanship Contest in Lexington, KY; Western Junior Livestock Show in Rapid City, SD, in 1981; the Arizona National in 2004; Western National Angus Futurity in 1987; and Cow Palace in San Francisco, CA.
In the mid '90s, Arlo purchased a handful of cows from Green Gardens Angus Farm, which was his dad's and brother Dick's operation. Arlo bred most of the cows to TC Stockman and made a run of his own in the registered Angus world, showing TJ Amigo and TJ Poppy to several championship banners. Having now acquired Roll of Victory Bull of the Year and Heifer of the Year on his own, he continued showing and fitting cattle for both himself and outside breeders.
Arlo spent the last years of his life with his daughter in Klamath Falls, OR. He is survived by Andra; his brother, Richard "Dick" Janssen; his sisters, Arvo Jo Walker and Joyce Cotton; two grandchildren, Colton Campbell and Caitlin Leslie; and many great friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Rachel Janssen. A celebration of life will be held Jan. 8, 2022, at the Cattlemen's Congress in Oklahoma City, OK.
On Friday night October 15, 2021 Neal DeLoy Ward (62) of Blackfoot, Idaho passed away. Neal loved his family, God and country. Neal, the son of DeLoy and Viola Ward, grew up in Rexburg, Idaho and was an avid scouter earning his Eagle and his American Farmer degree in FFA. He married his high school sweetheart Shelly Greene in the Idaho Falls Temple on March 21, 1980. Neal and Shelly moved to Blackfoot, Idaho to raise kids, cows, hay and grain. He passed his love of cows and the farm to his kids and grandkids. They have all helped with both the farm and cows.
Neal started a life-long love of cows and farming at the age of 3 as he rode a tractor with his dad and even the herd bull on his own when he was a little older. He accomplished his dream of owning and operating a successful farming and seedstock operations in both Madison and Bingham Counties and is well known for his purebred cattle across the United States and beyond. He owned Wooden Shoe Farms and Timber Creek Ranch which raise and sell registered Polled Hereford and Angus cattle. His cattle have won many awards at state, regional and national shows.
Neal had a big heart and has helped a lot of people. Everyone knew him as the person that could tell a good story that even in sad situations could make everyone laugh and smile. He will be greatly missed by his family including: wife Shelly Ward, Son Brad Ward (Blackfoot, ID) and his wife Brittany Ward and their children Jaylin, Zeke, Zade, Emma, Breck and Locke; his Daughter Alicia Billman (Rigby, ID) and her husband Steve Billman and their children Tymber, Chyloh, and Cache; his daughter Jennifer Nelson (Buhl, ID) and her husband Arlin Nelson and their children Boedon, Treven, and Case; his son Kyle Ward (Blackfoot, ID); and his daughter Kelsie Ward (Santaquin, UT) and partner Brooke Ward; his parents DeLoy and Viola Ward (Rexburg, ID); mother-in-law Ada Greene (Archer, ID); brother Robert (Karen) Ward (Mountain Home, ID), sister Eileen (Glenn) Bradbury (Perry, UT), sister Ruby Ward (Logan, UT), sister Susan Rose (Matt) Lindsey (Rigby, ID) brother Perry (Holly) Ward (Blackfoot, ID), and more including in-laws, Bryant & Michelle Greene (Archer, ID), Gary & Wendy Wilcox (Archer, ID), Richard & Julie Griffel (Ashton, ID) and many nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held on Thursday October 21st from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Hawker Funeral home (132 S Shilling Ave., Blackfoot, ID). On Friday October 22nd at Blackfoot Northwest Stake Center (100 N 740 W., Blackfoot, ID) a viewing will be at 10:00 - 10:45 am followed by funeral services at 11:00 am.
Condolences can be sent to the family at www.hawkerfuneralhome.com.
Clinton Charles Chamberlain was born on December 12, 1926, in Winner, SD the third of seven children of William and Gertrude Chamberlain. At that time the family was living in Ideal, SD. In 1928 the family moved to Mellette County to homestead a half section of land. Charles remembered that they lived in two little shacks located south of what is now SD Highway 44—one for cooking and one for sleeping. Later they built a house on the north side of the road to be on the homestead land. This is where the ranch headquarters is located today.
In 1934 the family rented land and feed near Martin, SD because there was no feed for the cattle on their land. That winter was the hardest time of Charles' childhood. On December 1, at age 35, his mother died. Elsie Sanders had come to work for the family in June of 1934 and she stayed with the family to help raise the children. Many years later Bill and Elsie married.
Charles attended Running Bird School through eighth grade. He graduated from White River High School in 1944. Charles remembers driving to school in a car without heat. By the time he and his brothers got there his hands were freezing cold. His first class was typing which always began with a speed test. Needless-to-say, this did not always go very well.
After graduation he enlisted in the US Army and was sent to a special program at the University of South Dakota in Brookings for about six months. He remembered coming home on the train during that winter. The train stopped so he got off but there was no place to get inside so he spent the night standing by the tracks in the cold.
Charles' active-duty service began on January 8, 1945. After basic training he went on the become a paratrooper. By the time the training was done the war was over and because he could type, he was assigned to an office calculating back pay for soldiers returning from overseas. After discharged he returned to the family ranch.
Charles loved his family, his country, his church, and his Hereford cattle. His dad bought the first registered heifers in 1939 and the Chamberlains have been the registered Hereford business ever since. They added TUF to the name of the business because of their brand. Charles showed cattle over the years with some success. He had the grand champion Hereford bull at the Black Hills Stock Show in 1971 and in 1973. His bull calves placed fifth in the pen show at the Western Livestock Show in Denver in 1971. He was a strong supporter of the Mellette County Livestock Improvement Association. Charles was on the board of directors for many years where he solicited donations and found judges. He always brought calves to town for the Pen of Three heifer show.
Charles married Arlene Schmitz on August 11, 1973. Arlene came to White River as a teacher. Arlene worked for the Todd County Schools as food service director for thirty-two years and helped on the ranch as she could. Since her retirement in 2010 she has been the muscle to Charles' brains on the ranch.
Charles is remembered as a warm, kind person especially by his many nieces and nephews. Since he did not have a family of his own, he acted as big kid who was always up for fun and games.
Charles passed away on October 8 at Avantara in Pierre as he was there for rehab. He was looking forward to returning home the week of October 18.
Charles was a life-time member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in White River. He was a member of the American Legion for sixty-five years. He was stalwart member of the Mellette County Senior Citizens. He served as president for several years and rarely missed a Monday card game.
Charles is survived by his wife, Arlene, his brother, Edward and numerous nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents, stepmother Elsie, brothers Richard, Raymond and Emery and sisters Jessie (Alvin) Fuerst and Theresa (Pat) McDonald.
Delores was baptized on June 2, 1935 at the Methodist Episcopal Church in Luverne and confirmed in 1947 at Zion Lutheran Church in Hardwick. She was currently a member of St. Leo Catholic Church where she was active in the Ladies Aid and was a circle leader. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, the Hi Neighbor Birthday Club, and the Pipestone Senior Citizens. She enjoyed watching TV, especially the Minnesota Twins. She also enjoyed baking, and everyone loved her angel food cakes. Her spare time was spent playing solitaire on the computer. She enjoyed watching her children at their 4-H and school events. She looked forward to family get togethers, especially Christmas where she could be with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 64 years, John E. Schmidt of Pipestone, Minnesota; three children, John A. (Joyce) Schmidt of Pipestone, Minnesota, Joan A. (Barry) Kelley of LeRaysville, Pennsylvania, and Jacqueline J. (Danny) Schaefer of Marshall, Minnesota; six grandchildren, Jenna (Patrick) McGunegill, Amber (Brad) Seiss, Brittney Schaefer, Shelby (Steven) Buchholz, Addy Schaefer, and Jason (Rebecca) Kelley; and great-grandchildren, Logan, Mabry, Max, and Lenox McGunegill, Piper and Brooks Seiss, and Alice and Austin Schaefer. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Virgil Staeffler; her sister-in-law, Marjorie Staeffler; her nephew, Larry Staeffler; and her niece, Sandra Vander Beek.
Memorials are preferred to the St. Leo Catholic Church maintenance fund, 415 Hiawatha Ave, Pipestone, Minnesota 56164.
Miles was born on October 8, 1929, to Nell (Miles) McKee and Thomas F. McKee in Cottonwood Falls, Kansas. He was united in marriage with his high school sweetheart, Marjorie (Fisk) McKee on June 22, 1952, in Cottonwood Falls, Kansas. They raised one daughter Annell, and three sons, Dave, Richard, and John.
Miles grew up on a ranch in Chase County, Kansas. He attended Kansas State University (KSU) receiving a degree in animal science. He enlisted in the U.S Marine Corps and served in the Korean War as a 1st Lieutenant. Upon completion of his service he worked as a beef herdsman on ranches in Kansas, Missouri, and Michigan. He returned to KSU as the herdsman for the purebred beef unit. Miles received his Doctoral Degree in Animal Science from the University of Kentucky in 1968 and returned to KSU, to join the Animal Science and Industry faculty where he received numerous teaching awards and developed a reputation as a top beef cattle judge. His greatest legacy is as an academic advisor, guiding, mentoring, and caring for generations of students. Miles felt each student who walked in his office door was special and unique.
In 2015, Miles received the initial "Don L. Good Impact Award" from Kansas State's Livestock and Meat Industry Council. Miles was a member of the 1950 National Champion Livestock Judging team at Kansas State coached by Dr. Good.
Miles was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Manhattan where he sang in the choir and volunteered part-time as a host and receptionist in retirement. He enjoyed tending his apple trees, harvesting a bounty of apples that his wife Marjorie processed into apple sauce and pie fillings each year. For years Miles served as a "Burger and Brats Griller" at the Animal Science tailgate tent on Football Saturdays greeting current and former students from across the state.
Miles was preceded in death by his wife Marjorie, parents Nell and Thomas, one brother, Tom, and two sisters, Margaret and Jane. He is survived by his, four children Dave (Susan), McKee of Sheridan, Wyoming; Richard McKee of Topeka, Kansas; Annell (Gary) Danczyk of Whitefish, Montana; John (Angie) McKee of San Clemente, California; and nine grandchildren.
Services are pending at this time and will be announced by the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.
Charitable donations in memory of Miles can be made to the Miles McKee Student Enrichment Fund, at the Department of Animal Science and Industry, Kansas State University, 1424 Claflin Road, 232 Weber Hall, Manhattan, KS. 66506-8028. For more information contact: 785-532-6533, or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Online condolences may be left for the family through the funeral home website at www.ymlfuneralhome.com
Onaka, SD-Mass of Christian Burial for Gary G. Rausch, 62, of Onaka will be 10:30 am, Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Onaka, SD. Rev. Fr. Darin Schmidt and Rev. Fr. Brian Simon will officiate. The service will be live streamed and available at www.CarlsenFH.com under Gary's obituary.
There will be a Liturgical Wake Service at 7:00 pm, Tuesday, with visitation at 6:00 pm at the church in Onaka.
Interment will be in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery at Onaka.
Gary died Sunday, August 1, 2021, from injuries sustained in an accident near his farm.
Gary was born November 22, 1958, to Duane and Janice Rausch of Onaka, SD. Gary grew up with his 12 brothers and sisters on their family farm in Onaka, SD, where his passion and love for cows began. He attended his early years of school in Onaka, but finished his schooling in Cresbard.
While in school, he met and fell in love with Twila Baker. They were married in February 1979. For the first two years of their marriage, they lived in Onaka, at which point they moved to their family farm where they remained.
Gary loved Hereford cows, sporting events, hunting, never missing a meal, and winning AM radio trivia. However, Gary's peak happiness came from watching his kids and grandkids compete in various sporting events. He coached both teener and legion baseball, including being selected to coach the all-star game in Milbank, SD. Gary was a member of the parish council for St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. He was also a volunteer firefighter for Onaka and was a member of the Clark Township Board. Gary loved the Twins, the Vikings, and very much enjoyed the "Minneapolis Miracle."
Gary was a kid at heart and could often be found instigating mischief. The sparkle in his eye always gave him away. Gary was a "talker" and could often times be found in lengthy conversations with complete strangers. He loved going to bull sales. He loved the road trips, the comradery, and the lifelong relationships.
Gary is survived by his wife: Twila Rausch; mother: Janice Rausch; mother in law: Frankie Baker; siblings: Rick Rausch (Linda), Jeannie Hiem (Leonard), Cindy Schlosser, Pam Holt (Kevin), Shellie Melius (Owen), Kay McGaugh (Scott), Deb Owens (Joel), Tim Rausch (Teresa), Kristie Beal (Jon), Peg Goetz (Lee), Troy Rausch (Lovette), and Chad Rausch (Cortney McEntyre); children: Melissa Larson (Chris), Mark Rausch (Erin), Nicole Hieb (Austin); and his beloved grandchildren: Kalen Larson, Talon Larson, Amari Larson, Everly Larson, Kendall Rausch, Opie Hieb, and William Rausch; brother in law: Clyde Baker (Traci); sister in law: Darcy Swier (Greg); and many nieces and nephews.
Gary was preceded in death by his father: Duane Rausch; father in law: Elroy Baker; brother: Robert Rausch; sister in law: Carmen Rausch; brother in law: Mike Schlosser; and his precious granddaughter: Amaya Larson.
In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wecota, SD, St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery Fund in Onaka, SD or St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Hoven, SD or just go have yourself a steak in memory of Gary.
Carlsen Funeral Home and Crematory of Aberdeen has been entrusted with arrangements.
Richard R. "Dick" Drake, of Cheyenne, Wyoming passed away peacefully at the age of 85, on July 14, 2021, at Cottonwood Creek Memory Care in Cheyenne. He was a much-loved husband, father, granddad, brother and friend.
Dick was born on April 26, 1936 at Arapahoe, Wyoming, the son of Joe F. and Ethel P. Drake. His early years were all about family and raising all kinds of animals, and he went on to become active in 4-H and FFA and showing champions at the county and state fair.
Dick graduated from Riverton High School and then attended and graduated from the University of Wyoming in 1958. While at UW, Dick met Myra Louise "Lou" Holmes, and on October 26, 1958 they were married. Dick and Myra Lou then moved to the family ranch, north of Cheyenne, and started their lives together in Myra Lou's grandparents' home that was originally built in 1925. They welcomed three children, Jolene, Kent, and Joylyn. Together they joined other family members; Myra Lou's parents, Keith and Myra Holmes, and brother, Buck Holmes, raising cattle and later formed the registered Hereford cattle business, "Holmes Herefords, Inc.".
Dick was a Wyoming rancher that had a tremendous passion and eye for producing the best Hereford cattle he could for himself and the ranch family. He sold "Holmes Herefords" cattle all over the world.
Dick and Myra Lou were a true team on the ranch and were married for 41 years, until Myra Lou's death in 2000. Dick later remarried Patricia "Pat" Fox on June 15, 2002 and the family welcomed her to the ranch in Cheyenne. They were married 19 years.
Dick served in the Wyoming Army National Guard. He was a member of the Wyoming and American Hereford Associations, Wyoming Stock Growers, National Cattleman's Beef Association, and served as President on the Laramie County Fair Board.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Myra Lou; his infant daughter, Jolene; and a sister, Wanda Davidson.
He is survived by his wife, Pat; son, Kent (Laura), Cheyenne; daughter, Joylyn (John) Ciz, Wheatland; step-children, Christine (Jeff) Hilliard, Canyon Lake, TX, Kevin (Dixie) Fox, Sheridan, WY, Janet (John) Peyrot, Sheridan, WY; brother, Bill (Marsha), LaPorte, CO; sister, Connie (Willard) Woolwine, Jackson, WY; grandchildren, Kolby (Mallory) and Lucas Drake, Jaycilou Ciz; step-grandchildren, Jodi (Jim) Buffington, Jason (Nichole) Ciz, Jamie (Kurtis) Wilson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and great step-grandchildren.
The memorial service for Dick will be at King of Glory Lutheran Church, 8806 Yellowstone Road, Cheyenne, Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. An interment service will follow in Lakeview Cemetery.
In memory of Dick, friends may contribute to the Wyoming Children's Society, 314 East 21st Street, Cheyenne, WY, 82001.
Services are entrusted to Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home, 2222 Russell Avenue, Cheyenne, Wyoming 82001.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard R. "Dick" Drake, please visit our floral store.
Jordis Eleanor Robertsdahl, died Saturday, May 29th, 2021 at the age of 96 at St. Gabriel's Living Community in Bismarck, ND.
She was born February 7, 1925 to Eddie and Christine (Gylland) Robertsdahl near Christine, N.D., the fourth oldest of nine siblings. She was baptized at North Pleasant Church near Hickson, ND. Jordis was proud to have been confirmed at South Pleasant Church near Christine (which now stands at Bonanzaville). She graduated from Pleasant Consolidated High School in 1943 when she began working as a secretary at Central Livestock in West Fargo. She married the love of her life, Hilbert Baumgarten, on December 30, 1945 at Hickson Lutheran Church. They farmed and raised their family near Durbin, N.D. until moving to Fargo in 2008. They were happily married for over 71 years. Their love for each other was so strong that they spent almost every moment together until Hilbert passed away on May 14, 2017. Jordis moved to Bismarck in August of 2017 to be closer to her children and grandchildren.
Aside from raising her children and supporting Hilbert's Hereford and farming operations, Jordis was an Avon Representative for over 15 years and later enjoyed her 15 years as a Senior Companion Volunteer, an experience she found very rewarding. She was an active member at Canaan Moravian Church, her home church her entire adult life ever since she was married. She especially enjoyed traveling to her childrens' homes and, most importantly, attending the many special events of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she was so proud of.
She is survived by her children Lynette (Gary) Nieuwsma, Cheryl (Randall) Naze, and Rolland (Wendy) Baumgarten; 7 grandchildren Brody (Heather) Felchle, Shawn (Lindsey) Nieuwsma, Kyle (Amber) Nieuwsma, Doug (Lori) Naze, Abbie Naze, April Baumgarten and Jake (Savanna Mccarty) Baumgarten; 7 great-grandchildren; Reagan, Reed, Teague, Soren, Sabine, Teddy, and Delphine; sisters Lenore Frederickson and Carolyn Freeman; sisters-in-law Velora Robertsdahl, Marlys Robertsdahl Kluck, and Arlene Cullen; brother-in- law Donnie Baumgarten; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Hilbert, daughter Lorraine Snyder, daughter-in-law Tama Baumgarten; sisters Agnes Liudahl, Arleen Funseth, and Edith Nord; brothers Clarence, Ellsworth, and Wesley Robertsdahl; sisters-in-law Adeline Robertsdahl, Bobbie Baumgarten, and Elaine Baumgarten; brothers-in-law Norman Liudahl, Melford Gylland, Carlott Funseth, DeRoyal Nord, Dave Frederickson, Wally Freeman, and George Cullen; and nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff of St. Gabriel's Benedictine Living Community for their family-like companionship and their care for Jordis these past few years. The family would also like to extend gratitude to Canaan Moravian Church and the community for their long time love and support.
Memorials are preferred to Canaan Moravian Church or the donor's choice.
Visitation:5 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 4, 2021, at West Funeral Home, West Fargo and Saturday at the church an hour before the service
Prayer service:7 p.m. Friday, June 4, at West Funeral Home, West Fargo
Funeral:2 p.m. Saturday, June 5, 2021, Canaan Moravian Church, rural Davenport
Burial: Canaan Moravian Cemetery
LaVerl E Singleton was born on April 19, 1933 to Frank Ray Singleton and Ruby Barney Singleton. He died quietly in his sleep on May 28, 2021 in Plano, Idaho.
He was born at home in Wilford a little prematurely, and spent the first weeks of his life in the warming oven of the coal stove. LaVerl grew up on the family farm, learning at a young age the value of hard work A trait he retained up to the day he died. He enjoyed working with his father and often said he wished he could figure out and fix things the way his dad did.
He graduated from South Fremont High School where he was a member of the boxing club. LaVerl grew grain, hay, and for a few years potatoes. But the thing he enjoyed the most was raising Hereford cattle. After his father's death in 1974, he continued to farm and ranch. The collapse of the Teton Dam in 1976 was a devastation to LaVerl, to his spirit as well as his beautiful farm ground.
LaVerl married Patsy Ann Liebert on June 14, 1988. They enjoyed 32 years of marriage. Her death on February 5. 2020 left LaVerl feeling very lonely as he missed her everyday. In June of 2020, LaVerl suffered a very mild heart attack. He was separating his bulls and getting ready to put them in with the cows. The story of what happened got a little mixed up in the emergency room, and it was reported that he had been fighting bulls. The heart surgeon was trying to decide if he was a good candidate for surgery. One of the nurses told the doctor about the "bull fighting" and he had bypass surgery. LaVerl continued to raise Hereford cattle, doing a full day's work, and visiting with neighbors and friends.
He is preceded in death by all his siblings, his parents and his sweet wife Patsy. He is survived by several nieces and nephews, good friends and his beloved dogs, Sammy, Fred and Spike.
Funeral services will be held Thursday June 3, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at Bert Flamm Mortuary, 581 E. 1st N., St. Anthony. Friends and family may call at the funeral home from 12:00 until 12:45 p.m. Burial will be in the Parker Cemetery.
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Anton "Tony" Stroh, 90, longtime Killdeer area rancher and registered Hereford Producer passed away on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at Hill Top Home of Comfort, Killdeer with family by his side. Tony's Liturgy of Word Service will be at 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Killdeer with Deacon Dan Tuhy presiding. Interment will take place at St. Joseph's Cemetery, Dickinson. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson. Visitation will continue from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Killdeer with a rosary and vigil at 7 p.m.
Tony was born to Ambrose and Katherine (Hecker) Stroh on August 14, 1930 on the family farm near Emerson in Dunn county. He was the fourth born of six children. He attended school in Gladstone and then later in Killdeer when the family moved to begin the International Harvester Implement (Killdeer Implement) business.
From an early age, Tony was involved in 4-H where he began his love and interest in Hereford Cattle. He purchased his first female Herefords in the late 40's which was the start of Stroh Herefords. On November 16, 1950, he married Leona Mack at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Dickinson. They moved to the family ranch east of Killdeer and started a family and the registered Hereford business. In 1964, he purchased the land from his father then expanded the ranch and Hereford business.
Tony was involved in several organizations and boards over the years. He served as a 4-H leader and instilled the importance of 4-H to his children and grandchildren. Tony was awarded the Outstanding Young Farmer Award for Dunn County, numerous Soil Conservation Awards: including the Tree Farm Award for planting numerous tree belts on the ranch. He served on the board for the Dunn County ASC Committee, Killdeer area Economic Development Corporation, ND Hereford Association, where he served as President and a Director. He was awarded the Hereford Man of the Year in 2005 for his contributions to the Hereford Association and a special FFA Award from the Killdeer High School Chapter. Tony was a member of the ND Stockman's Association, American Hereford Association, Dunn County Farm Bureau Board, Killdeer Saddle Club and St. Joseph's Catholic Church.
Tony will be greatly missed by his family. He always loved visiting about cattle and politics, giving and receiving good jokes now and then. Tony was a true steward of his cattle, the land and his family he cherished so .
He leaves behind his wife of 70 years, Leona, Hill Top Home of Comfort, Killdeer; six children, Roberta (Wayne) Schmitz, Elgin, Dave (Debb) Stroh, Killdeer, Jackie Stroh, Miles City, Mont., Neil (Alvara) Stroh, Sandy, Ore., Mike (Dawn) Stroh, Killdeer, and Kelly (Mike) Weidner, Kindred; 13 grandchildren, Sheldon (Cody Schneider) Schmitz, Shawn (Heather) Schmitz, Kayleen Stroh, Joshua Stroh, Jesse (Mariah) Stroh, Tara (Bob) Schmitz Watson, Garrett (Olivia) Lamach, Jill (Chris Anderson) Stroh, Jodi Stroh, Krystle Twiss, Lucas Stroh, Brandon (Samantha Blattenbauer) Weidner, and Matt Stroh; 11 great-grandchildren, Myra Stroh, Hannah Schmitz, Brittney Schmitz, Jaden Schmitz, Brennan Schmitz, Kenyatta Stroh, Faye Ann Remboldt, Abi Watson, McKenna Remboldt, Madison Stroh, and Leona Stroh; numerous nieces and nephews; and sister-in-law, Kathleen Stroh.
Tony was the last member of his siblings. He is preceded in death by his sisters, Irene Boe, Theodora Sabrosky, and Leona Gunsch; brothers, James "Cap" Stroh and Donald Stroh; and his parents, Ambrose and Katherine (Hecker) Stroh.
Eugene Harold Boner was born November 20,1943 to Harold and Verla (Gouldie) Boner in Red Cloud, NE. Although a farming accident unexpectedly took his life on April 29, 2021, Gene was doing what he loved.
Gene resided in Line Precinct all of his life and attended Red Cloud public schools. He married Serena Hansen in September 1963 and they established their family farm southwest of Red Cloud. To this union were born 2 daughters, Martha and Marie.
Gene grew up in 4-H and FFA and so began his lifelong passion for Hereford cattle. After their girls graduated and began families of their own, Gene continued to be involved in both organizations by helping in the show ring passing on pointers and assuring nervous kids they had a winner.
Gene was preceded in death by his sister Martha Jane and his parents, Harold and Verla. Left to carry on his memory are his wife Serena, daughters Martha Meyers, Marie Farr and husband Bill, grandchildren Mikhaila and Chaz Heim, Joshua Meyers, Dorie Meyers, Levi Farr, and 7 great grandchildren along with other family and numerous friends.
Cynthia Sheren (Stirling) Scott
Only stage-four colon cancer could slow Cynthia Sheren (Stirling) Scott down in her life full of family, friends, and FEMA adventures.
After a two-year, hard-fought battle, she passed away Wednesday, March 3, 2021, in Boise, ID, surrounded by her children and the prayers of many family and friends far and wide.
A Celebration of Life to honor Cyndi will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 27, 2021, at the United Methodist Church in Highmore, SD, with Pastor Kippy Udehn officiating. For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed on the funeral home's website. A lunch will be provided directly after the service. The burial will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Riverside Cemetery in Pierre, SD.
Cyndi's surviving family include her children Stacey (Shannon) Galinat of Boise, ID; Jackie (Ted) Quinn of Nolensville, TN; Shari (JoHan) Wang of Boise, ID; Justin Scott of Kadoka, SD; grandchildren Megan and Shelby Galinat, Jenna and Kellen Quinn, Keira and Lincoln Wang; mother, Nancy (Ray) Neuhauser; siblings Kathy Heezen of Miller, SD; Julie (Rod) Fieldsend of Sioux Falls, SD; Sandy (Randy) Sivertsen of Ree Heights, SD; Allen (Fran) Stirling of Belle Fourche, SD; Brett (Rhonda) Stirling of New Castle, WY; Carrie (Tom) Kelly of Odessa, TX; Kristen (Mike) Grant of Whitewood, SD; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and friends.
Cyndi was preceded in death by her father, Richard (Dick) Stirling and infant son, Chad Weston Scott.
In lieu of flowers, Cyndi requested memorials be given to Stirling Family Memorial Ranch Rodeo or Steps for Hope. Both organizations provide financial grants to families fighting cancer. Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with Cyndi's arrangements. Visit www.familyfuneralhome.net.
Douglas Patrick Lawrence, 78 , of Coon Rapids, MN passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, at the ARK on the River in Anoka Minnesota. He wasborn October 5, 1942 at St. Mary's Hospital in Minneapolis to Ralph and Irene Lawrence. Douglas was infant baptized and confirmed in the Methodist Church and was Born Again and baptized as an adult at Fridley Assemblies of God Church. As a youth he was an active Boy Scout and achieved the Order of the the Arrow as well asa 4-H member. He graduated from Anoka High School in 1961 but spent the majority of his young life attending school in Columbia Heights. Following his schooling he worked at Independent Packing and for Rocket Oil, entering the Minnesota National Guard in1964 and served for 6 years.
After completing basic training Douglas purchased Rocket Oil Company from his father in 1964 and started Rocket Turf Landscaping in 1967, growing Kentucky Blue Grass Sod in Anoka County. Douglas and JoAnn were married in 1969 in Willmar, MN and settled in Coon Rapids where they operated their businesses until he retired in October of 2020. Douglas was an active supporter of the Republican Party and served as President of the Minnesota Turf Association and current President of the Anoka County Farm Bureau.
Douglas had many interests including home building, land development and raising Hereford Cattle. His enjoyment of raising Hereford Cattle gained many close friendships across the country and he has been honored many times for his support of the Junior Hereford Association both in Minnesota and Nationally. He would receive the American Junior Hereford Association Advisors of the Year Award in 1995, American Hereford Association 50 Year Golden Hereford Breeder Award 2009, Minnesota Farm Family of the Year 2010 and was inducted into the Minnesota Hereford Breeders 2020 Hall of Fame.
Preceded in death by Father Ralph E. Lawrence, Mother Irene E. Lawrence, and Sister-in-law Kathy Lawrence.
Survived by Wife of 51 years JoAnn (Krueger), children Bryan (Marytina), Bradley (Brigitte) and Jason Viebrock and six grandchildren, Montana (Leyton,Fiance'), Wyatt (Claire), Wade, Wynn, Dawson and Hutton, Twin Brother Dennis and elder brother Richard (Sandra) many nieces and nephews.
Walter J. Walsh, 98, of DeGraff, died Saturday, January, 30th at Gabriel House in Murdock. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am, Monday, February 8th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Murdock. Visitation will be from 2-4:00 pm, Sunday at the church and one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar. www.hafh.org
Walter Joseph Walsh was born June 5, 1922, to Henry and Mary (Foley) Walsh in Murdock. He grew up on the family farm where he started helping with chores at an early age. Walter attended country school near Murdock. Following his schooling, Walt enlisted in the US Army where he honorably served for two years during WWII. After his honorable discharge he moved back to the farm where he continued working with his dad. On November 27, 1948, Walter was united in marriage to Catherine McCann. Walter and Catherine raised their family and worked together on the farm for 42 years. Walter was a hard-working, christian man who enjoyed farming his entire life. He could be described as "a great man of few words and a lot of work." He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was proud to know that three grandchildren carried out his legacy of farming and ranching. He was a loving husband, dad and grandpa.
Walter is survived by his children: Charles (Kendra) Walsh, Thomas (Lisa) Walsh, Mary Kay (Mark) Frederickson and Louise Waterman; grandchildren: Nate (Jayna) Frederickson, Sarah (Shawn) Frederickson Tatman, Dustin (Bobbi) Walsh, Ben (Catie) Waterman, Katie (Nick) Waterman Lambert, Jackson Walsh, Halle Walsh and Mia Walsh; great-grandchildren: Teegan and Tiernan Frederickson, Peyton and Trygve Tatman, Olivia, Addy, Ella and Emmy Walsh, Ethan Waterman, Madi and Brooke Lambert; sister, Monica Osterbauer; and sisters-in-law: Mary Walsh and Albie Walsh; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; step mother, Nora Walsh; wife, Catherine; son, James Walsh; great-granddaughter, Brooklyn Walsh; son-in-law, Fran Waterman; siblings: Henry, Clarence and Jerome Walsh, Anna Scepaniak, Mary Fennell; brothers and sisters-in-law: Alice and Albert Grosso, Don and Mike McCann, Lowell Fennell, Veldon Osterbauer, Joe Scepaniak; father and mother in-law, Ed and Alice McCann; nieces, Susan Scepaniak Sanders, Diane Walsh Nolan; nephews, Steve, Max and Joe Osterbauer, Greg Walsh.
While we will grieve with family and friends over his passing, we would like to raise a Hallelujah that Grady Nolan Sparks is now home with the Lord and is excited to have all of us join him when our time on planet earth is done.
"Three." That was Grady Nolan. He did not wait for One, Two. He was always ready to take on the next challenge. He started out in life a bricklayer, got his degree in Building Construction at Auburn University (one of the last things he said was War Eagle) and quickly became a contractor/developer/cattleman. He loved to travel and see and explore new land. He could look at a piece of property and quickly envision how it could best be used for farming, hunting, development, or as a sanctuary. Truly insightful and creative, a visionary, he even took western art classes in Taos, NM.
His interests ranged from coaching little league football to raising/training Bird Dogs for Field Trials to piloting American Tugs in Alaskan/Canadian waterways to recording gospel music. He obtained his multi engine pilots license and flew for business and pleasure. He raised champion Reining Horses, Cutting Horses, and Pleasure horses. He loved Hereford cattle. His introduction to Herefords began in the 1960s and maintained and developed one of the finest Hereford cattle herds in the nation. He would play bridge or tennis or pickleball with equal drive and determination. In fact, he travelled the country competing in major Bridge Championships, was a highly ranked southern section tennis player for over 20 years, and won back to back US Open Pickleball Championships rising to #5 in the world rankings. Grady Nolan often told us that he still holds the Walker County record for the mile run having run it in 5 minutes flat in 1956. Since high school track competitions switched to the metric system not long after that, this may be true.
Our point is this. Grady Nolan did not "dabble" in anything. He took on every new interest with the goal in mind of being the best he could be. He had a strong will, fierce determination and knew how to make things happen! He did this by meeting and listening and learning from others and eventually teaching others. He believed one should always be eager to learn, respectful of others, intentional with their efforts, realistic in setting their goals, and passionate about achieving them. This was not work for him. It was love.
And love is what he showed all family, friends, and strangers alike. He knew the love of Jesus and shared it with all he encountered either through counsel or song. We were at his bedside wondering why he was handling his failing health so much better than us. Grady Nolan was like the bricklayer before him, Nehemiah, who encouraged all around him by reminding them that "the joy of the Lord is my strength".
Hallelujah to the precious name of Jesus Christ for blessing us with Grady Nolan Sparks! Amen!
Dorothy Hoffman Herman, age 82, passed away peacefully in her home in Leola, SD, on Sunday, January 17, 2021.
Dorothy Ann Crompton was born May 31, 1938, at Brentford, SD, to L.T. and Grace (LaBay) Crompton Waltman. As a small child, she grew up on the Crompton homestead five miles west of Wetonka. When she was about 8 years old, the family moved two miles north of Wetonka where she attended grade school. She graduated from Westport High School in 1956, where she was very active in school activities and was an honor roll student. In the 1990s, she assisted her mother in compiling a family history and recipe book where Dorothy was referred to as "Pa's Little Helper." Dorothy always liked to go along with her dad and when she was old enough to drive, she worked in the field with him. She had many fond memories of her life at Wetonka.
Following graduation, she was employed at the McPherson County Extension office in Leola. On May 30, 1958, she married Gerald Hoffman and they made their home on the Hoffman ranch west of Leola. Gerald and Dorothy raised 3 children while expanding their registered Hereford business that took them to many states and foreign countries. Most family vacations included a Hereford sale or ranch visit to view cattle and meet and make new friends. Dorothy was a crucial part of the ranching business with her meticulous bookkeeping skills and involvement in the American Hereford and South Dakota Hereford Associations. She was also active with the Circle L Cattlewomen group in Leola for many years. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, and preparing meals for hungry hired hands and special guests. For fun, she and Gerald could be found square dancing!
After the death of her husband in 2004, she took on a supportive role in the ranch management and transitioned the ranch to her son, Colin, and his wife, Mary Beth. After a few years, she moved to Leola where she became active with the Senior Citizen group and enjoyed entertaining guests and grandchildren.
On October 13, 2012, she married Fred Herman Jr. and together they enjoyed each other's company while attending church, shopping and social events. Looking forward to "whose birthday is next" and getting together at the farm for "birthday parties" with plenty of cake and ice cream was always a good time.
Dorothy had an unwavering Christian faith that was the cornerstone of her life as she spent many hours daily reading her Bible and praying. She taught Sunday school and 7th grade confirmation for many years at St. James Lutheran in Leola. She loved to study the bible, take sermon notes and wrote many of her own Bible studies. Her church family, whether at St. James, Praise Family Fellowship, or Freedom Church, was something she held dear to her heart.
Grateful for having shared in her life are her husband, Fred Herman, Jr., Leola; her children, Jerome (Charlene) Hoffman, Brooklyn Park, MN, Joan (Steve) Crombie, Faribault, MN, Colin (Mary Beth) Hoffman, Leola, SD; stepchildren, Kim Herman, Lake of the Ozarks, MO, Michelle (Scott) Hinkle, St. Louis, MO, Todd Herman (Susan), Troy, IL; 3 exchange daughters, Cristiane Mello, Sao Palo, Brazil, Stephany Pons Bessone, Marseille, France, and Dasha Zhagina, Ukraine; her brother, Leo Crompton, Aberdeen, SD, her sister, Kelli Waltman, Leola, SD; sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Roehr, Britton, SD, Sue Crompton, Bothall, WA. Dorothy was blessed with 11 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, 7 step grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Dorothy was preceded in death by husband, Gerald Hoffman; father L.T. Crompton; mother Grace (LaBay) Crompton Waltman; stepfather, Martin Waltman; parents-in-law, Emil and Elizabeth Hoffman; her brothers, Louis Crompton, Jackie Crompton, Tom Crompton; her sisters, Lucille Goodfellow, Mary Lou Kamm; brothers-in-law, George Goodfellow, Marvin Kamm, Richard Pitkin, Dennis Roehr, Elmer Kaul; sisters-in-law, Marcella Kaul, Norma Crompton, Viola Crompton; grandson, Stefan Hoffman.
A celebration of Dorothy's life will be held Thursday, January 21, 2021, at Freedom Church 516 Production Street, Aberdeen, SD. Visitation begins at Noon at the church followed by funeral at 2:00 pm with Pastor Drew Becker officiating. The use of masks is respectfully requested, but not required. Burial will immediately follow at Green Mound Cemetery 1 mile south of Leola. Gramm Funeral Home, Ipswich, SD is in charge of arrangements. grammfuneralhome.com
Eugene M Wirth (Gene), age 77, of New Richmond, WI passed away at Regions Hospital suddenly on Friday, January 8, 2021. He was born on October 4, 1943 in River Falls, WI the son of Marvin and Beatrice (Deiss) Wirth and lived on a dairy farm outside of Prescott. The family then moved to Boardman and ran the Wirth General Store. He graduated from New Richmond High School in 1961 and served in the National Guard from 1964 to 1970 and worked for Relander Dairy. He was united in marriage to Cheryl Hinz on August 5, 1972 in East Farmington, WI. He started driving for Cemstone Ready Mix and eventually become a dispatcher for 39 years and retired in 2004. He started working for River Valley Ford in 2006 until he retired in 2018.
Some of his early hobbies included bowling, softball, fishing, hunting, and dancing. After his first retirement, he took up the game of golf. He loved his family, playing cards, high school sports, an occasional pull-tab and listening to old country and polka music and watching westerns. He enjoyed watching NASCAR and the Badgers sports teams and cheering on his Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers. He loved nothing more than to visit with someone while having a cold beverage and discussing his beloved Hereford cattle and cats. Every summer, the family would travel thousands of miles to exhibit at fairs and shows.
Gene is survived by his wife, Cheryl Wirth; four children: Tracy, Matthew (Melinda), Brent, and Lance; 2 step granddaughters; Ashlee (John) Duff and Alyssa (Jared) Hentz; 2 step great grandchildren; Kaylee and Avalee Duff; 3 sisters, Verla Baker, Corinne (Don) Cardell, Nancy Cavegn; one brother, Allyn (Michelle) Wirth. He is preceded in death by his parents and in laws, Paul and Rita Hinz.
Gene was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in New Richmond, American Hereford Association, Indianhead Hereford Association Hall of Fame member, Wisconsin Hereford Association and Minnesota Hereford Breeders.
A Public Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at 1:00PM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (151 S. Washington Ave) in New Richmond. A visitation will be held on Friday, January 15, 2021 from 5:00-7:00pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (728 S. Knowles Ave) in New Richmond and one hour prior to the Mass at the church. Interment will be in Boardman Cemetery. Guests will be asked to follow all CDC guidelines for gathering including social distancing and face masks. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
The livestream for Gene's service will be operated by the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. The link provided will bring you to their Facebook page and the livestream will go live approximately 20 minutes prior to the start of Mass. Click here for the link.
Marvin J. Espenscheid, age 80, of Argyle, WI passed away at his home on Monday, December 07, 2020.
He was born on October 05, 1940, in Rockford, IL the son of Milton and Leona (Yokers) Espenscheid. Marvin graduated from Pecatonica High School in 1958 and attended the University of Illinois. He was united in marriage to Ruth Lehto on September 02, 1961 in Rockford, IL. He loved his family and his Hereford cattle.
Marvin is survived by his wife: Ruth Espenscheid; six children: Sarah (Kevin) Lueschow, Ben (Bev) Espenscheid, Jon (Shannon) Espenscheid, Thad (Meredith) Espenscheid, Amy Espenscheid, and Carrie Espenscheid; sixteen grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one sister: Marilyn Bicksler. He is preceded in death by his parents; and one brother: Gary Espenscheid.
Marvin was a member of the Argyle Lutheran Church in Argyle, American Hereford Association, Wisconsin Hereford Association, Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association, and Wisconsin Beef Improvement Association. Marvin was in the purebred cattle business for over 52 years. He will be fondly missed by his family, friends, and neighbors.
Private family services for Marvin will be held Saturday, December 12, 2020 with Rev. Dan Bohlman officiating. A public visitation will be held Friday, December 11, 2020 from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm at the Erickson Funeral Home in Argyle (801 Milwaukee St., Argyle, WI 53504). The Erickson Funeral Home in Argyle is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.
Robert "Bob" Hermann, age 71 of Lemmon, passed away on Thursday, November 19, 2020 at the West River Regional Medical Center in Hettinger, ND.
The Public is invited to attend the Graveside Service at 1:00pm MT, Saturday, November 21, 2020 at Greenhill Cemetery in Lemmon with Pastor David Peterson. Full Military Honors will be provided by the Brattvet-Green American Legion Post #66 of Lemmon.
Serving as casketbearers are Paydon Casper, Riley Casper, Garrett Hermann, Kole Hermann, Walker Hermann, Weston Hermann, and Eric Casper.
Robert G. Hermann was born September 25th 1949 in Lemmon, SD to Gustav and Albina (Maier) Hermann. Bob was the youngest of three children with two older sisters Caroline and Delores. As a young boy he lived on the family farm southwest of White Butte SD where his passion for ranching and farming got started. He was able to roam the fields and pastures throughout his youth anchoring his foundation. Bob attended Liberty Country School and Lemmon High School graduating with the Class of 1967. He served in the US Army in Vietnam receiving the United States Bronze Star Metal for distinguishing himself by meritorious service in connection with military operations against a hostel force in Vietnam. He married Connie Spoering on January 6, 1973. They raised their 4 children, Darin, Jamie, Laurie, and Ryan, on the family ranch near Lemmon. Bob had a love for ranching and Hereford cattle. He was always working to improve the genetics of the herd and traveled many states to purchase bulls. Life-long friends were made with Hereford breeders and their families. The Hermann Ranch was honored to receive the SD Hereford Association Commercial Breeder of the Year Award in 2014. Bob believed there is not a better way to live than to live in a ranching community raising Hereford cattle. Bob was a humble man with a strong-quiet faith. He had a special love for his family and was proud of his children and grandchildren passing on the value of hard work and the value of integrity and honesty. He attended their school and sports activities with enthusiasm. Bob was always smiling and happy. His optimistic attitude drew people to him, and he enjoyed interacting with the different folks he would meet.
Being community minded Bob served in many capacities. He served on the church board and as an elder in the church. He served on the Perkins County Weed Board, hospital board, Dakota Propane Board, Grand River Grazing Association Board, and on the local township board in various capacities.
Bob is in heaven with the Lord Jesus hearing the words "Well done good and faithful servant."
He is survived by the love of his life, Connie Hermann; children, Jamie (Julie) Hermann, Kadoka, SD; Laurie (Eric) Casper, Lake Preston, SD; Ryan (Tina) Hermann, Lemmon, SD; Kristy (Joe) Lokken, Bismarck, ND; grandsons, Paydon Casper, Riley Casper, Garrett Hermann, Kole Hermann, Walker Hermann, Weston Hermann, Ty Moran, Kolden Lokken; sisters, Caroline Tucker and Delores Huber.
Bob was preceded in death by his son, Darin, parents, Gustav and Albina Hermann, mother-in-law, Marie Spoering, infant sister, Lorraine, brother-in-law Ervin Huber, brother-in-law Charles Tucker, and nephew, Michael Huber.
Cards may be sent to Connie Hermann, 17958 105th St, Lemmon, SD 57638.
William F. "Willie" Friedt, 89, Dickinson, formerly of Mott, died Sunday, November 15, 2020 with family by his side at St. Benedict Living Community, Dickinson. Willie's Private Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m., Saturday, November 28, 2020 at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, Richardton with Fr. Thomas Wordekemper, OSB as celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Stephen's Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Ladbury Funeral Service. A private rosary will be held at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson with Deacon Bob Zent presiding. A livestream link for the Mass will be available on the funeral home website.
William F. Friedt was born April 21, 1931 to Anton B. and Ottilia (Loran) Friedt on the family farm. Willie grew up 15 miles north of Mott milking cows, raising hogs, chickens and grain farming. He attended Colgrove Country School in Campbell Township, Hettinger County. After graduating from eighth grade he remained on the farm working side by side with his dad to continue his passion of farming and ranching.
Willie met Luella Koenig, telling family it was love at first site. While dating they enjoyed bowling, roller skating, and dances at the Halfway and Hardmayer Hall. One winter when the roads were blocked Willie road on horseback to visit Luella. There were no TV's at the time so when they gathered with friends there was card playing, singing, and Willie played the guitar. Willie and Luella were married June 10, 1953 at St. Stephen Catholic Church. The Koenig family initiated him by teaching him "Gloverous," a card game with lots of pounding! After getting married, they lived with Willie's parents for a short time and then moved to the Koenig farm. Willie and Luella continued to farm and ranch both family farms until retirement in 1995. Willie shared his passion for farming with both his sons, Dale and Gary as they joined him operating the family farm.
Willie enjoyed snowmobile trips with friends and family to South Dakota, trapping, hunting, fishing, collecting model cars, and was an avid reader. He enjoyed neighborhood Pinochle and Pitch games. Willie and Luella spent many nights dancing to one of their favorite bands, "The Shadows." Willie worked hard all his life. When he suffered his stroke on March 1, 2000, he told his told his doctor his hobby was work! Willie served two three-year terms on the Mott Equity board of directors, was a member of St. Stephen Catholic Church; serving on the church board, singing in the choir, and was a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus, at one time serving as president. When work was needed at the church he was always ready to help.
Willie moved to Dickinson in 1995 yet continued to "commute" to help at the farm. He suffered his first stroke March 1, 2000. Willie continued to live at home for 16 years until moving into the Benedictine Living Community in July 2016. He continued to always be interested in what was going on at the farm, with the cows, the harvest, planting, the grandchildren, etc. Trips back out to the farm always brought him joy. When able, he attended school events of the grandchildren. His greatest interest in recent years was the antics of his great-grandchildren. Family gatherings will not be the same without Willie sneaking treats to the family pets.
Willie will be greatly missed by his family, Dale (Terryl), Mott, Gary (Kirsten), rural Mott. Wille was blessed with four grandchildren, Nicholas Friedt, Oakes, Megan (Dusty) Dukart, Richardton, Lindsey (Drew) Courtney, Oakes, Aaron (Tatian) Friedt, Mott; and 11 great-grandchildren, Isabelle, Aliyah, Easton Friedt, Hudson, Hoyt, Hayes, Holden, Heston Dukart, Avery, Ella, and Claire Courtney; brothers, Henry, Mesa Ariz. and Darrel, Turnwater, Wash. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anton B. and Ottilia Friedt; brother, Albert, sisters-in-law, Sarah, Ina, and Bertha; and nephews, David and Raymond Friedt. Arrangements are with Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson, www.ladburyfuneralservice.com
Douglas Roland Smith, age 84 of Sheyenne, N.D., passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 15, 2020 at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND.
He was born on Midway Farm, which was still his home, on December 9, 1935 to Floyd and Anne (Jacobsen) Smith. He went to Rocky Mountain School #2 just down the road from home. He rode his horse to school many times. After graduating from 8th grade he entered the New Rockford High School. He was a busy student as he played saxophone in the school band then getting the nickname "12th Street Rag". After graduation Douglas enrolled in the Winter Short Ag Course at NDSU. Upon returning in 1953 he began farming and purchased 2 registered Polled Herefords to start the foundation of Midway Polled Herefords. In 1970 he sold Polled Hereford breeding stock to Chile and in more recent years to Kazakhstan. He loved to work the land and had a love for raising the Polled Hereford seed stock, which his family still raises from his original herd.
Finding out that he had a yearning to take flying lessons, he bought his first plane. He tried 3 other planes before finding his love of a Cessna 172. He enjoyed giving rides in his plane, especially to kids.
On Valentine's Day, February 14, 1959 he married the love of his life, Ann Bonderson of Sheyenne. To this union they had 2 sons James and William. Doug and Ann enjoyed traveling and visited over 30 states and Canada.
Over the years he has been on the Eddy County Crop Improvement Board, President of the North Dakota Polled Hereford Association, was awarded the Soil Conservation Award, Outstanding Young Farmer Award, and in 1992 was awarded the Polled Hereford Man of the Year for North Dakota.
He also had a love of music. He had his own band for 20 plus years playing for weddings and clubs all over the state. In his later years he enjoyed entertaining at several nursing homes.
He had special relationships with his two granddaughters Kate and Whitney, as they lived on the same farm, and now also his two great grandchildren Will and Andie, who are the 6th generation to live on Midway Farm.
As an only child, Doug also had special relationships with his cousins, Robert, Nick, and Don Holthe, Eileen (Holthe) Patrick, Ellen (Smith) Messner, Lester Smith, Erland Bergland and Leona (Bergland) Bouret.
Doug is survived by his wife of 61 years, Ann; his sons James Smith, Fargo and William (Karen) Smith, Sheyenne, granddaughters Kate (Austin) Langley, Warwick, Whitney (Jacob) Burkhardsmeier, and great grandchildren, Will and Andie Burkhardsmeier, all of Sheyenne and we can't forget his beloved dog Taz.
Doug was preceded in death by his parent, in-laws, many musician friends and fellow Polled Hereford breeders.
Visitation will be Wednesday, 9:00AM-5:00PM at Evans Funeral Home, New Rockford.
His Private Funeral Service will be held Thursday, November 19, 2020, at Evans Funeral Home, New Rockford, ND.
Burial will be Thursday, November 19, 2020 at 2:30 PM at the Nystrom Cemetery, rural Sheyenne, ND.
(Family and friends wishing to join the procession to the cemetery. We will be leaving the funeral home at 2:00 PM.)
It was Tuesday evening, October 6, 2020, when Roelena (Lee) Venhuizen went home to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Roelena was born on February 9, 1926 to Jacob and Lena Feddes near Belgrade, Montana. She was the fifth of their six children. She attended Belgrade School for 12 years, after which she attended Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan for one year.
After completing this education, Roelena taught at Manhattan Christian School for a number of years. On June 5, 1947, she married John Venhuizen. They were blessed with four children: Judy, John, Donna and Dale. They farmed in the Three Forks area for a few years and in 1958 they purchased the farm south of Manhattan where Roelena resided for the rest of her life, except for the last two years when she moved to Parkhaven Retirement Home.
Roelena took an active part in the farm life and was an excellent partner for her husband in this regard. She enjoyed participating with John in the Montana Hereford Association and the American Hereford Association. She and John developed good relationships with others in the Hereford business and travelled to many different countries because of this.
In the 60s, Roelena took courses at Montana State University to upgrade her education so that she could go back to teaching part time. She did this for a few years, but then chose to return to 100% farm life.
Roelena and her husband were always very involved in church and Manhattan Christian School activities. They were charter members of Bethel Christian Reformed Church.
Roelena is survived by son and daughter-in-law, John and Barb Venhuizen, daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Jake Stelpstra, and son and daughter-in-law, Dale and Nancy Venhuizen. She was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren, plus one more on the way. She is also survived by one sister-in-law, Nell Feddes. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, John Venhuizen, her daughter, Judy Venhuizen and son-in-law, Robert Allen, as well as 2 sisters and 3 brothers.
Roelena's life was best portrayed by her love for her Lord, her husband and her family, as well as the church and school. She loved visits from grandchildren and later great grandchildren. She was always very engaged with school and church activities that her grandchildren were involved with. She was a huge support for them, always attending sports and musical activities, as well as big events like graduations and weddings. The last number of years of her life she became more strongly dependent on her Lord. She spent much time in prayer and reading her Bible, running with endurance the race that was set before her, looking to Jesus, who was the founder and perfecter of her faith. (adapted from Hebrews 12:1-2) Mother, Grandma, Great Grandma, we love you and we will miss you dearly.
A private graveside service will be held for immediate family only at 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 10, 2020. To watch the service online please go to Roelena's obituary page at www.dokkennelson.com. Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Manhattan Christian School. Arrangements are in the care of Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service.
Lucas- Gene C. Meitler, 71, of Lucas, KS, died Friday, October 2, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson, KS. Gene was born in Lucas, Kansas on August 8, 1949, a son of the late Norma (Thaemert) and Armin Meitler.
He was a farmer/rancher and owner/operator of Heartland Hay in Lucas, KS. Gene is survived by a daughter, Crecia Reeves, of Russell, KS.; two sons Darris Meitler, of Lucas, KS.; Clint Meitler, of Sylvan Grove, KS, a sister, LuBell Adams, of Ellsworth, KS; a brother, Neal Meitler, of Wales, WI ; and 7 grandchildren.
Memorial Services will be held at a later date and there will be no visitation. lnterment will be in the Lucas Cemetery - Lucas, KS.
Rodrick & Minear Funeral Home of Lucas, KS. is entrusted with arrangements
Dustin Wayne Lodoen, better known as Dusty, (41) left this earth tragically on 09/30/2020 while doing what he loved: farming the land. He leaves behind an immeasurable legacy with his wife, two precious little boys, his family, and a community of friends that spread as far as the North Dakota plains lie.
Dusty was born 01/19/1979 at St. Andrews hospital (Bottineau, ND), to Myron and Patty (Henry) Lodoen. He was welcomed home by his loving older sister, Emmy Lou, and later blessed by the birth of a little brother, best friend, and farming partner, Danen "Wood". Dusty grew up on the family farm for all of his life, where his parents still reside.
Dusty was always a talented, successful, intelligent, kind, and influential "go-getter" from an early age. He was active in sports, 4-H, farming, showing cattle, wheeling and dealing, and trying new things for as long as anyone can remember. In his earlier years, Dusty took extreme pride in bull riding. With that said, his daring and "no-fear" attitude landed him scars and stories to tell for years to come (even if he used those same scars to tell some stories that weren't true.) You had to be a good sport if you were around Dusty because he always knew how to get a good debate going- but they always ended up in laughs, a hug, handshake, or a "cheers."
Dusty attended Westhope high school for all of his schooling years, graduating in 1997 alongside many of his best friends. He has maintained those true friendships to this day, and we've never met anyone who didn't call Dusty a friend, role model, mentor, or "one of the good ones."
Following graduation, Dusty attended NDSU majoring in agricultural economics. He thoroughly enjoyed college life (as he loved his whole life), and he excelled, as farming and business has always been in his blood.
The next step in Dusty's life brought him back to Bottineau County where he worked as a loan officer for State Bank of Bottineau. He later moved to Minot and continued working as a loan officer for Farm Credit Services. While living in Minot, he also took on part ownership of the Pita Pit. Many great memories were made during his years in Bottineau and Minot.
Dusty's final life destination took him back to his hometown roots, Westhope ND, where he lived until his final day. Dusty moved back and started working as a crop insurance agent for Artz Insurance, while also taking on farming with his brother Danen. After a year of farming together, the brothers became "Richburg Farms," and continued to successfully expand and provide for their families and community. Dusty was also a member of several boards and committees, including Soybean Council, Westhope country club board, and the local Border Ag elevator board. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Westhope as well.
In 2011, Dusty met Kylie Thom unexpectedly and fell in love instantly. Their dating life was never boring. He constantly reminded her that she was the "love of his life," and they completed the missing pieces in each other's lives. Her family fell in love with him just as quickly. Together, they enjoyed traveling the world, hitting up sporting games, amusement parks, and the best steak restaurants. Life with Dusty was spontaneous and adventurous. There was also a relaxing side to Dusty, and they loved lounging at home enjoying each other's company. This was just as important. They were united in marriage on 12/03/2015, a beautiful and memorable wedding at St. Pete Beach, Florida.
In 2016, Dusty and Kylie welcomed their first beautiful son, Emerson Robert Lodoen. At that very moment, Dusty found himself in a new role in life, which would become his most prideful and loving part of him: A Dad. In 2019, a second beautiful son would join the family, Asher Kevin Lodoen. Dusty loved his boys and wife more than anything in the entire world. Even on his busiest days, he remained actively involved and often invited the boys out to join him on the farm or wherever he was headed that day.
Dusty always made sure that his family was taken care of, and if he couldn't be there for something, he always had a plan B arranged. His two special sons want to be just like daddy and their lives revolved around everything farm, everything Daddy-related, and being with Daddy's "workers." He truly was their idol and he went over and beyond to be the best dad and husband that we could ever ask for. Dusty spent many hours sleeping/napping wherever and whenever if it made the boys feel comfortable and happy. He enjoyed the naps just as much. They will forever cherish every pickup, combine, tractor, and semi ride with Dad, or just hanging out at the shop with "the guys." There was no object or situation that Dusty couldn't fix. He truly was invincible and constantly told his wife, his love, "Don't worry about it hun!"
Although Dusty's life was too short, it was never boring. He loved staying busy and truly lived each day from sun up to sun down loving his family, taking care of the farm, his crew, insurance clients, and filling voids in the lives of everyone around him.
Some of Dusty's favorite hobbies included golf tournaments, men's nights, social gatherings, snowboarding, cooking, rolling dice and playing blackjack, investing in stocks, watching football (especially NDSU and 49ers), attending the events of his nieces/nephews, donating his time to the community, napping, and spending time with all of his beloved family and friends, even if it went well into the night. His phone was always ringing, and he made sure to take care of everyone else's needs, even before his own.
An encyclopedia could easily and effortlessly be composed on the life of Dusty, and he would probably enjoy reading and reliving it, as he loved reading and was a history buff. Dusty was not a materialistic person, but would rather spend his time and finances on living adventurously and generously.
The best words that repeatedly come to mind when describing Dusty are as follows: generous, BEST friend, influential, loyal, invincible, idol, instigator, hard worker, family man, counselor, negotiator, wise, self-less, and a leader. He was also a son, brother, father, husband, friend, business partner/coworker, cousin, nephew, uncle, and an irreplaceable piece of everyone's life.
Dusty will be missed so greatly and deeply. Keep his memory alive, as he would tell us all that this is the "final final." The truth is, it isn't the "final final" for any of us. So much love and tears will be shed for him eternally, until we meet again.
Dusty's celebration of life will be held at the Richburg Farm shop, his prized possession and place of peace during all farming seasons. The funeral will be held on Thursday, October 8th, at 2:00PM (Located at the shop north of 9339 County RD27B, Newburg).
Dusty is survived by: his wife Kylie and two toddler sons, Emerson and Asher Lodoen (Westhope); Parents Myron and Patty Lodoen (Westhope); Sister Emmy (Bryan) Huber and children of Jud; Brother Danen (Natalie) Lodoen and children of Westhope; Mother and father in laws, Lori (Kevin) Deschamp of Westhope, and Dobie (Lorie) Thom of Maddock; special aunt Wanda Henry of Newburg; Uncles Leonard Lodoen of Westhope, Mylon Lodoen of Indiana, Clyde Kersten of Newburg; Brother and sister in laws, Kendra Thom(Seth Hamnes) of Bottineau, RaeAnn(Ryan) Ellsworth and children of Newburg, Levi Deschamp, Beth, and children of Westhope; cousins, and friends. He is also survived by his farm hands: Taylor Whitlock, Jon (Boy) Sivertson, Wade Genre, and Keith "Doc" Martin.
Dusty is proceeded in death by his grandparents: Lyman and Rosalie Henry and Clarence and Hazel Lodoen; brother in law Kevin Thom, aunts Bette Lodoen and Robyn Kersten, and special Uncle Bob Henry; and Godson Burke Henry.
Arrangements were with Nero Funeral Home in Westhope. Friends may sign the online regisiter book at www.nerofuneralhome.net.
Lilla Hunter Bell passed away peacefully Sept. 17, 2020 surrounded by family at the Bell Ranch in Paradise Valley, NV. Lilla and her twin brother, Bob, were born on June 12, 1938 in San Francisco, CA, to Phelps and Lilla Hunter. Her sisters, Beth and Pat, followed a few years later. Lilla spent much of her early years on the family ranch near Hollister, CA where she found immense joy caring for and raising animals. Lilla was active in 4-H at an early age, raising and showing Hereford cattle. She also had a deep love for corgis, breeding and showing them throughout the years.
Lilla was a pioneer in the agricultural industry. She received a Bachelor of Science in animal husbandry from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. Lilla was the first woman to graduate from Cal Poly's animal science program. She also achieved incredible success on the college's livestock judging team and was the first woman on a champion collegiate judging team. She also won the Women's Stockhorse class at the Salinas Rodeo with Bill Dorrance's horse, Patrick. In later years, she served on the American Polled Hereford Association's (APHA) board of directors, representing five Western states. Lilla was the first and only woman to serve as chairman for APHA's board. She was an integral part in bringing together the APHA and the American Horned Hereford Association into a single association. As a result of her contributions and lifelong support of the breed, she was inducted into the Hereford Hall of Fame in 2012.
In 1957, she attained worldwide fame when a photograph of her and her triplet Hereford calves hit the newspapers. She received fan mail from across the world, and her famous photograph made its way to Humboldt County, NV, into the home of the Bells. A few years later, Forrest "Woodie" Bell would meet the beautiful young woman in the photograph at the San Bento Fair in California. Woodie bought Lilla an Orange Crush soda pop. Lilla often remarked to her family and friends, even years later, that she could still taste that soda.
Lilla and Woodie were married in 1960 and had three sons together: Dean (Nikki), John (Jhona), and Dan (Theresa). Lilla loved and cared for her boys deeply. They rejuvenated her interest in the Hereford breed as the boys joined 4-H and started breeding heifers to show. She loved watching her boys compete in high school, college, and professional rodeo.
Lilla's grandchildren, Dawson, Lilla "Lilly", Trase, Quint, Cade, Shane, and Carly, also raised and showed Hereford cattle in 4-H. Lilla gifted each of her grandchildren a Hereford heifer to foster the joy she had felt raising Herefords over the years. During the time her grandchildren were showing cattle, Lilla served as an adviser for the Paradise Valley 4-H Beef Club and sat on the Humboldt County Show and Sale Committee.
Lilla enjoyed taking drives through the fields at the Bell Ranch. She was an accomplished photographer and a world-class cook. She was the kindest soul this world has ever known.
The family will be holding a celebration of life in December. More details on that event will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Winnemucca FFA Alumni Association Scholarship Fund.
ELIZABETH RAE (Bet) KETTLE
Daughter of Esther and Norman Howard, Bet was born 6/20/1933 and passed in her sleep 9/12/2020. She was wife and partner at San Isabel Ranch to Benjamin W (Doc) Kettle, mother and grandmother to five children, seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Bet was an avid reader of contemporary novels from authors such as Michener, McMurtry, Ben K. Green, Patrick Taylor, and Edward Rutherford. She appreciated fine antiques and preferred Victorian style antiques and fine china. Bet loved to sing – especially duets with Ben. Hers a strong alto to soprano range, Ben's tenor/bass voice made beautiful music. She loved Harry Belefonte, The Kingston Trio, Andy Williams, Glen Campbell, and Luciano Pavarotti.
Bet was an avid gardener and loved flowers. A labor of love, she kept a beautifully manicured yard and brimming full, gorgeous flower beds. The main house was always embellished with extraordinary cut flower arrangements and flowering potted plants. For Bet, Tuesday's were always "no-cow-work" days at the ranch. She would dress in her "Sunday best" and spend the afternoons in a mean game of bridge with life-long friends like Paulie Canda, Marie Holmburg, the Tanglewood ladies, and more. They shared many a good conversation after the cards were played, of course.
She served for years as the Convention Committee Chairman of the Colorado Cattlemen's Association, Secretary of the Colorado Hereford Association, member American Hereford Association, Secretary of the Colorado Republican Party, and President of the Custer County School Board. Bet's tough, straight talk, no excuses philosophy was filled with love for many Custer County Bobcats over the years. Bet enjoyed basketball and football– especially Bobcat Basketball, March Madness, and Joe Montana.
Although having no previous experience in ranching, she quickly adapted to the life caring for hundreds of wet baby calves in her back porch during Spring calving. One of her favorite times spent with Ben was evening calving checks. She loved how the calves played and chased and the love they shared for the life they lived together. She kept all the pedigree and performance data on 40 years of cowherd genetics. She also processed genetic breeding records for the American Hereford Association. Hereford cattle were the mainstay of San Isabel Ranch at the time and together Ben and Bet were recognized nationally for their outstanding genetics and high quality cattle. She enjoyed the seasonal life of the ranch, including calving, weaning and hours in the saddle on good horses moving cattle from one pasture to the next. She was an excellent horsewoman and had an accomplished eye to spot outstanding cattle.
Bet was an accomplished writer and was often asked to pen the history of the Wet Mountain Valley, area churches, and wonderful stories of the ranching and community history. Her joy was writing advertising copy for San Isabel Ranch. Over the years, hundreds of bulls were marketed well with the help of her gifted advertising. The Kettles were portrayed in the National Geographic book The Mountain People and the Sunday Denver Times, and many beef industry publications. San Isabel Ranch and Ma and Pa Kettle were described and written about often.
Bet loved people in a big way. She had such a good heart and fierce convictions - her legacy of that good heart and feisty spirit shall remain through her children for generations to come.
Services will be held at the Sangre de Cristo Cowboy Church in Westcliffe Colo. at 1:30 pm, September 26, 2020. If donations are wished, they are encouraged to be made to the Custer County Medical Foundation (CCMF)/Ben Kettle Memorial Scholarship; or the Colorado Cattlemen's Association - Floyd Cross Foundation.
as written by Marti:
Marti Jo (Valek) Wilber met her Heavenly Father on September 2, 2020, at the age of 47 years, 11 months, 18 days. She was born September 15, 1972, to Eddie and Marcella (Bouley) Valek. She grew up near Wayne, KS, the youngest of 7 kids (one, Jerry, died at birth). She enjoyed everything about her childhood, working hard alongside her siblings & parents, fishing, hunting, caring for all the critters, cattle shows, harvest, putting bales in the barn by hand (except when Bill chased me with a snake in the hayloft – Bad, Bad Bill!), watching the sunrise and the sunset. She loved the family God put her in with all her heart.
She graduated from Hillcrest in 1991, Cloud County in 1993 (where she participated in Basketball and Track), and also attended K-State for a year (where she worked at Nelson's Hatchery where she vaccinated thousands of baby chicks daily). In May 1995, she started working at Hillcrest and continued to work for the school system even after consolidation occurred. She continued to work for USD 109 until fighting cancer became her full time job.
Marti married Dan Wilber in September 1995. His playful spirit, ability to fix whatever she broke, and God's blessing was the glue that bonded them in marriage. They had two children, Cameron and Tobi. It was at this point that Marti relinquished her place on the tractor seat and began grooming her mothering abilities. I have to admit, I never saw myself being a mother, but oh how God blessed me with two bundles of joy!
She still loved the outdoors, and the kids would always be found alongside her in whatever outside activity was happening. When the kids were in trouble, they didn't have a naughty chair – they would have to do laps around the house. So, yes, you can thank me for being such good runners in H.S. and college.
As the kids grew older, the activities multiplied. If they participated in it, she made a point to attend every activity she could! Of course she missed some due to cancer & West Nile meningitis, but neighbors and friends would always send pictures and videos so she could feel a part of the event.
God, kids, family, cattle, dogs and goats were her passion. She was sprinkled as a child, but baptized by submersion when she was 31. She was an active member of the Central Christian Church, Merry Meadowlarks 4-H Club, and the Kansas Hereford family.
She held such jobs as vaccinating chickens at Nelson Hatchery, scale operator at Cloud County Co-Op, tax prep for FMSI, Hillcrest USD 455 secretary/para/bus driver, and Republic County USD 109 secretary/para/bus driver. Her love for children never ceased.
Marti is preceded in death by her parents, Eddie and Marcella, brothers Jerry and Randy Valek, nephew Jacob Valek, and brother-in-law, James Wilber.
She will be forever remembered by her husband Dan, son Cameron, and daughter Tobi of Belleville. Marti is also survived by her sisters Janis Krob (John) of Cuba, and Nancy Erickson (Glenn) of Maysville, MO; brothers Mick Valek (Donna) of Wayne, and Bill Valek (Resi) of Wayne; sister-in-laws, Becky Lewis (Craig) of Wichita, Charlotte Sullivan (Blake) of Wichita, Susan Thomas (Zach) of Lawrence, KS; her father and mother in law, Charles and Ruth Wilber of Belleville, numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 4, 2020, from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville, where the family will greet friends from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., at the Central Christian Church in Belleville, with Pastor Jacob Rice and Pastor Mark Imel officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, rural Wayne.
Memorials are requested to the Family's Choice to be designated at a later date, and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
Wells Bekins, age 79, passed away on April 22, 2020. He went peacefully surrounded by his daughter and a dear friend. Wells Bekins was born in Seattle, Washington on October 29, 1940 to Margaret Elizabeth Wells Bekins and Claude Bekins. He attended Lakeside School, graduated from Queen Anne High School and then went on to Menlo Park Junior College and attended Oregon State University class of 1964. He went to work for the family business, Bekins Moving and Storage in Portland, OR. He married Marta Knifton in 1967. They had two children, Dirk and Brooke. In 1974, he moved to Seattle to be President of Bekins Moving and Storage. He remarried in 1982 to Jennifer Boone and began buying for his herd of Polled Hereford cattle. He became very involved in Polled Hereford Show cattle and specialized in breeding them for show purposes. His love and passion for animals continued throughout his life. His first cattle ranch was in Arlington, Washington. He also had ranches in Idaho and Buffalo, Wyoming. He also enjoyed his time in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. He was actively involved in scholarship programs for Washington State University Veterinary school, Colorado State University Veterinary school and Colorado State University-VACA International outreach Program. He was on the Board of Directors for Bekins Storage NW and on the Board and President of Aurora Improvement Company.
He is preceded in death by his son Dirk, mother Margaret and father Claude. Wells is survived by daughter Brooke Schuldt, son-in-law Chris Schuldt, granddaughter Gabriella Schuldt, sisters Jana Anderson and Jill Anthony.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to WSU - Large Animal Veterinary School - Wells Bekins Scholarship fund or CSU - Large Animal Veterinary School - Wells Bekins scholarship fund.
Charles Joe (Charlie) Martin was born July 8, 1920 to Roy M. Martin and Cumilla Martin in Quitman, Arkansas. He graduated from North Little Rock High School and attended the University of Arkansas where he met the love of his life, Mary L. Staats. They were married on April 24, 1942 and remained married for seventy-eight years until Charlie's death on July 20, 2020.
Prior to graduation from the University of Arkansas, Charlie left school and joined the Army Air Corp. He served as a "hump pilot" flying supplies from India to China to support the Chinese army and the Flying Tigers.
Following WWII, Charlie and Mary moved to Bartlesville, where Charlie went to work in the oil fields for his father-in-law Carl W. Staats. In 1960 Staats purchased a large cattle ranch near Sedan, Kansas. In 1964 Staats, who was in ill health, turned most of his business assets over to Charlie and Mary.
Charlie was a very enthusiastic rancher, and eventually served as President of the American Hereford Association. He sold the ranch in 1998 and began an active retirement. During his retirement Charlie played trumpet in various community bands, was the regular bugler for the James H. Teel Post 105 honor guard, received the status of Life Master in duplicate bridge, played gin rummy regularly at Hillcrest Country Club, and finished his degree from the University of Arkansas at age eighty-seven.
Charlie was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, a member of Bartlesville Rotary, and served for years as a member of the Union Bank & Trust Executive Committee.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws, and by his son, Charles J. Martin, Jr. He is survived by Mary, of the home, sons Stephen Martin and Robert Martin, seven grandchildren, and twelve great grandchildren.
Charlie will be honored at a private funeral at St. Luke's Episcopal Church on August 6th.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Charles Joe Martin please visit our Sympathy Store.
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Cage Levi Landers, 18, of Scotia, died Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020, at the Howard County Medical Center in St. Paul.
Services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Central Valley Auditorium (Sacred Heart Gym) in Greeley. The Rev. Mark Middendorf will officiate. Burial will be in the Mount Hope Cemetery in Scotia.
Visitation will be Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Central Valley Auditorium in Greeley.
All CDC guidelines will be followed in regards to social distancing and face masks are required. The service will be live streamed on the Peters Funeral Home Facebook page. The direct link for that page is www.facebook.com/PetersFuneralHomeSP
The family strongly suggests that instead of flowers and plants that memorials be given to the family for later designation of setting up a scholarship in Cage's name.
Peters Funeral Home of St. Paul is assisting the family.
Cage was born on Oct. 10, 2001, at Minneola, Kansas, the son of Levi H. and Julie D. (Quick) Landers.
Cage attended Ord Public School through the 3rd grade and then North Loup Scotia Public School. When he was in the 6th grade, the school system became Central Valley Schools. He was a recent 2020 graduate of Central Valley High School. Throughout high school he was involved in football, basketball, track and one act plays.
Cage loved sports, playing video games and spending time with his family and friends.
He was a fun loving, vivacious young man who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He continues his giving spirit, even in death, by being an organ and tissue donor through Live On Nebraska.
He is survived by his parents, Julie and Jay Meyer of Scotia and Levi and Jessica Landers of Minden; brothers, Casey Landers, Tanner Landers, Ty Landers and Bronson Meyer, all of Scotia; grandparents, David and Dianna Quick of Ord, Mike and Teddy Landers of Miles City, MT, Larry and Denise Umberger of Bonesteel, SD and Phyllis Carlsen of Sidney, MT; uncle and aunt, Brad and Jalena Davison of Texhoma, OK; and cousins, Austyn, Macee and Josie Davison, all of Texhoma, OK.
He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Pat Landers.
RANDOLPH -- Funeral service for Keith A. Huwaldt, 93, of Randolph will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 18, 2020 at the Keith and Virginia Huwaldt family farm, rural Randolph with Pastor Trudy Powell officiating. Those attending are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and face masks. Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Monday, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Randolph without the family present, face masks are encouraged. Interment will be at the Randolph City Cemetery. Military rites will be provided by Alvin Kessler V.F.W. Post #5545 and American Legion Post #113 of Randolph.
Keith passed away Friday, August 14, 2020 at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the family for a later designation.
Stonacek Memorial Chapel in Osmond is in charge of the arrangements.
Keith Arthur Huwaldt was born Aug. 16, 1926, at Randolph to Ferdinand and Lola Grace (Beaton) Huwaldt. He attended school at District #28 through the eighth grade, and then attended Randolph High School for one year.
Keith served in the United States Navy from Feb. 21, 1945, until May 27, 1946, as Seaman 1st Class.
He married Virginia (Robinson) on June 1, 1947, in Randolph. After marriage, Keith and Virginia farmed and lived south of Randolph. Keith drove truck for numerous years and they raised Hereford cattle. Keith was a former representative for MA Gedney Pickle Company.
Keith was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Randolph, 4-H, FFA, former president with Randolph Equipment Repair and Pierce Threshing Bee.
Survivors include spouse Virginia Huwaldt of Randolph; children Susan (Frank) Wattier of Randolph, Jean (Gaylen) Bierschenk of Randolph, Peggy (Robert) Christensen of Pierce, Donald (Audra) Huwaldt of Osmond, Ed (Marsha) Huwaldt of Randolph, Joe (Bobbey) Huwaldt of Huntsville, Ala.; sister Delores Haselhorst of Randolph; 17 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Alvina Heller of Norfolk; sister-in-law Delores Robinson of Foster; and brother-in-law James Wagner of Winnetoon.
He was preceded in death by parents Ferdinand and Lola Grace, and two grandchildren, Crystal Huwaldt and Shawn Bierschenk.
Casket bearers will be his grandsons, Dean Wattier, Brad Huwaldt, Adam Christensen, Mark Huwaldt, Jonathan Huwaldt and Jacob Huwaldt.
Honorary casket bearers will be his grandchildren, Shelly Backer, Wendi Bennett, Kelly Schwede, Kari Buss, Sara Huwaldt, Kim Huwaldt, Landon Koehler, Mark Koehler, Mandy Backer, Tracy Larsen, and Angie Huwaldt.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the family for a later designation. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.stonacekfuneralchapel.com.
Todd Allen Tegtmeier was born on June 8, 1971 in Pawnee City, Nebraska to Ronald D. and Lois A. (Svanda) Tegtmeier. He grew up on the family farm west of Burchard and his love for farming was apparent from an early age. He attended Lewiston Consolidated High School, graduating with the class of 1989.
Following high school, Todd attended Southeast Community College – Milford. He started out in the auto mechanics program, but quickly learned that was not for him, and switched to the John Deere program instead.
Todd spent the majority of his professional life as a salesman at Oregon Trail Equipment (now LandMark Implement) in Marysville, Kansas. He also worked for Dummermuth's Implement and Marshall County Equipment in Marysville, and for a brief time at John Deere in Tecumseh, Nebraska.
However, in 2016, Todd made the decision to do what he loved full time. He loved nothing more than to spend full days in the field, planting and harvesting. Todd spent numerous hours tending to cattle and row crop with his mom and dad. He had a passion for conservation work and was committed to being a good steward of the land. If there was anything Todd liked, it was to keep busy. In addition to the farm work, Todd enjoyed hauling various kinds of equipment across Nebraska and the Midwest. He also did a number of odd jobs for others for "grocery money."
Never one at a loss for words, Todd had a story for everything and always knew how to turn a phrase. He had a great sense of humor and never failed at making people laugh. He was, at all times, a man of his word. Todd will be missed by all who knew him.
On February 7, 2014, he married Sandy (Burton) Botkin in Marysville, Kansas.
Todd passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at his farmstead that he loved and purchased when he was 19 years old.
Preceding him in death are his grandparents, Clarence and Doris Tegtmeier and Joe and Blanche Svanda; and uncle, Roger Tegtmeier.
Todd is survived by his wife Sandy, parents, Ron and Lois Tegtmeier of Burchard, brother, Trent Tegtmeier of Lincoln, sister, Shawn Tegtmeier, of Norwalk, Connecticut; step-children, Quincie (Zach) Olberding, Prairie Village, KS, Gentry (Mark) Howell, Blue Rapids, KS, and Haden Botkin, Manhattan, KS; uncles, Russell Tegtmeier, of Burchard and Kermit (Sue) Svanda, of Nehawka, aunts, Clarice Tegtmeier of Lewiston, Julie Tegtmeier of Burchard, Donna (Bob Stepanek) Svanda, of DuBois, and Janet (John) Vetrovsky, of Pawnee City, nephew, Kobe Hicks; niece, Kylie Tegtmeier; as well as many other cousins, relatives, and good friends.
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Carol Fisher of Spencer, Nebraska, born in Lynch, Nebraska, who passed away on August 8, 2020, at the age of 76, leaving to mourn family and friends. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family. You may also light a candle in honor of Carol Fisher or send a beautiful flower arrangement to the funeral service.
She was predeceased by : her parents, Richard Anderson and Aileen Anderson; and her sister Beverly. She is survived by : her husband Lowell Fisher; her children, Sarah Price (Tim) of Coeur, Steven Fisher (Dalene) of Bartlesville, OK, Mary Tollie (Chip) of Olathe, KS and Ruth Hogue (Alex) of Lakewood, CO; and her siblings, Bruce Anderson (Nancy) of Norfolk, NE and Janice Ruda (Carl) of Spencer, NE.. She is also survived by eleven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11th 2020 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Brockhaus Funeral Home (204 S Thayer St, Spencer, NE 68777). A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 12th 2020 at 10:30 AM at the Community Hall.
Dean graduated from Sturgis High School in 1953. He attended a partial semester at SDSU. During this time, his younger brother Dale, was killed in a tragic car accident. Following the accident, Dean returned to the family ranch to help his dad. Other than the brief time at SDSU, Dean spent his entire life ranching along the Eastern slope of the Black Hills near Tilford. His mother, Janice, said she knew by the time Dean was 10 that ranching was in his future. He and his dad, Clifford, added milk cows to the operation in 1950. They built a dairy barn with lumber sawn from and milled at the Tilford ranch. They grade A milked around 60 Holsteins until 1966. When the milk inspector told them the screen door on the milk parlor was hinged on the wrong side, they quit milking…according to the story. Dean always said they got a lot done the years they milked because they got an early start to the day. He commented that he didn't miss milking but he sure missed the monthly milk check. Dean had a top notch set of commercial Hereford cows. He sold feeder steers to repeat buyers and bred heifers to neighboring ranchers.
Dean married Kay (Schryvers) in 1958. They built a small house on the ranch near Dean's parents and soon had to add a couple rooms when their son, Kenny, was born in 1962 and daughter, Sherroll, in 1964. Dean and Kay enjoyed entertaining family and friends at their ranch home. Dean and Kay traveled quite a bit. Kay was involved in several state and national organizations. Dean was her driver traveling with her across South Dakota and across the USA. Dean said his favorite trip was to the Holy Land.
Dean was active in the Sturgis United Methodist Church serving on several boards. He also participated in Meade County Farm Bureau, Order of Eastern Star and was a 50-year Mason. He was a strong supporter of 4-H. His grandsons were able to belong to the same 4-H club Dean was a member and leader of.
What Dean truly liked was working on the ranch. He didn't have any hobbies except reading "old cowboy books." He didn't hunt or fish, play cards, or go to coffee with the guys. He just liked to work.
Dean is survived by his son, Ken (Ronda) Snyder, Piedmont; daughter, Sherroll (Howard) Scow, Sturgis; six grandchildren, Bailey Collins (fiancé Tony Palumbo), Andrew (Tacy) Snyder, Daniel (Jenna) Snyder, Michael Snyder, Casey Scow, and Hannah Scow; two great-granddaughters, Kynlee and Eiley; sister-in-law, Marilyn Asher; and brother-in-law, Larry Schemmel.
Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Cliff and Janice; his wife, Kay; sister, Angie; and brother, Dale.
Memorials have been established to the Sturgis United Methodist Church and the Meade County 4-H Event Center.
The family invites you to attend a memorial service in Dean's honor on Friday, August 7, at 10:00 a.m. at the Snyder ranch with Pastor Jenene Earl officiating. Lunch and fellowship will follow the service. Burial will be at 4:00 p.m. at Bear Butte Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.
He married Danelle Mutchler on September 20, 1997. Together with their children, Tyler, Megan, and Prestyn, they welcomed another son, Caleb, in 2001. He continued to ranch in Mud Butte, and soon became busy taking his kids to ropings, rodeos, and following their athletic teams and other activities from elementary school through college. He loved his kids, but he had an even bigger place in his heart for his grandchildren, who will always remember "Papa JD" in every tall man they see with a cowboy hat.
He also enjoyed spending time with his wife, Danelle, no matter what they were doing - marathons, camping, or paddle boating. He would always be up for a new adventure, clad in his cowboy hat, denim western shirt, Hawaiian swimming trunks, and crocs.
JD was known by many, and had many long-lived friendships. His personality matched that of his horses: sometimes stubborn and wild, but gentle-mannered. He always had a sarcastic joke to tell (mostly inappropriate ones) and liked to make people laugh. Each joke was always followed by a big smile and a belly laugh. He loved kids, and developed a passion of helping and teaching kids to rope. Over the last few years, he helped build the arena into a place where kids could learn to love rodeo as much as he did.
He wanted to live, to share many more moments with his wife and family. He wanted to run his ranch, carrying on the Mutchler name. He wanted to watch his grandkids bounce on the backs of horses he made "kid broke" himself. He fought the hardest battle of his life for many years, and is finally at peace.
The family extends their most sincere thanks to all of those who cared for JD and his family throughout his life. Your help was what did, and will continue to, hold his family together for many years to come.
JD, age 51 of Newell, SD, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2020, at his home.
JD is survived by his wife of 24 years, Danelle (Conitz) Mutchler; his children, Tyler (Jordynn) Mutchler, Megan Dix, Prestyn Novak, and Caleb Mutchler; his grandchildren, Josie Dix (age 2) and Tilden Mutchler (age 1); his mother, Margaret (Bauer) Mutchler; his brothers, Marvin (Teka) Mutchler and Bill (Tricia) Mutchler; numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews; and his loyal pal, Roper.
He was preceded in death by his father, Neil Mutchler, and infant sister, Mary Mutchler.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 6, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis, SD.
Funeral services will be held Friday, August 7, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. at the Newell Rodeo Arena. A family burial will take place afterward.
A memorial has been established to the Community Club for the Newell Arena improvements.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.
Roger Melvin Tegtmeier , 73, of rural Burchard, Nebraska passed away on Monday, July 20, 2020 at his home. Roger was born on February 7, 1947 in Beatrice, Nebraska to Clarence and Doris (Searcey) Tegtmeier. He was the second of four, following Clarice Jean and older brother to Ronald and Russell. He spent his childhood on the Tegtmeier family farm learning how to farm from his father. In junior high, Roger was introduced to his great passion of coon hunting by some local hunters and continued this sport for the rest of his life.
Roger graduated in 1965 from Lewiston Consolidated School in Lewiston, Nebraska. He played on the Lewiston Boys Basketball team that won the MUDECAS Basketball Tournament in 1965. Roger loved all sports and was an outstanding athlete during his high school years. He enjoyed supporting his grandchildren in their sports activities with pats on the back and sometimes an idea for future use. He always wanted to know how everyone did, even if he wasn't able to attend the activity.
Roger married his high school sweetheart, Julie Bredemeier on November 24, 1968 at Salem United Church of Christ, rural Steinauer, Nebraska. The couple made their home south of Lewiston where Roger farmed row crops and developed the Tegtmeier Polled Hereford herd with his father and brothers. The marriage was blessed with two sons, Tim and Sherman. His sons each picked up one of his passions, Tim became a farmer and Sherman became a horse trainer.
Roger was involved for many years with the Flying Tigers 4-H club as member and leader. He was actively involved with the beef and horse projects.
As an avid coon hunter, Roger met some of his lifelong friends and enjoyed innumerable hours with his dogs chasing raccoons. He was also a great horse enthusiast. Roger loved talking, riding and just simply being around horses and horse people. Roger could always be found at the reining horse show, riding his latest show horse, cheering on friends or lending a helping hand.
In all his years, Roger never met a stranger. No matter where he went, he would make a new friend, whether at a horse show in Oklahoma or introducing himself to the neighbors, while his son was moving to a new home. Roger also never left the house without a snack in his pocket, most likely his favorite oatmeal raisin cookies or a bag of M&M's.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Doris, and an infant daughter.
Roger is survived by his wife Julie, sons Tim (Kim) Tegtmeier of Burchard, NE and Sherman (Sarah Jo) Tegtmeier of Blair, NE, sister Clarice Jean of Lewiston, NE; brothers Ronald (Lois) Tegtmeier and Russell Tegtmeier of Burchard, NE; grandchildren, Reyanna, Larissa and Tyler Tegtmeier and Emmett and Frazier Tegtmeier; aunt Verna (Tegtmeier) Light of Beatrice, NE; mother-in-law Jeannine Bredemeier Kamen of Burchard, NE; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members.
Funeral Services were Saturday, July 25, 2020 at Salem United Church of Christ Church, rural Steinauer, Nebraska. Officiating was Pastor Eric Biehl. Interment at the Salem U.C.C. Cemetery, Steinauer, Nebraska. Memorials to family choice. Online condolences may be left at www.wherrymortuary.com.
He was born May 25, 1928 in Dundee, NY to Hobart McKinley Beyea and Lucy Ida Swarthout Beyea. Orville grew up poor on a small farm in upstate New York when agriculture was still mechanized by horse power. He milked cows by hand, drove teams of horses to do the field work and haying, and learned the skills needed to live off the land.
He earned a national 4-H scholarship for designing a milking system for the family farm. He attended Cornell University where he was active in collegiate livestock events, and competed as a pole vaulter on the university's track and field team. He worked in the West during his summers off from college and nurtured his dream to become a rancher after he completed his degree in animal science.
Orville met his wife Joan Felice Palermo of New York City while they both were attending college at Cornell. They married Oct. 20, 1951. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany with the 483rd Veterinary Food Inspection Detachment.
Orville and Joan worked on Hereford farms and ranches in Pennsylvania, Colorado and Nebraska before starting their own business, Wishbone Herefords, in 1964 in the Nebraska Platte River region. Since there was no ranch to inherit, the couple built their operation on rented spreads, moving to larger ranches as their herd of cattle and horses grew. They eventually landed in the Sandhills.
Wishbone Herefords held an annual production sale of registered horned Hereford bulls and provided herd sires for numerous repeat customers across the Great Plains for over 35 years. Orville judiciously studied pedigrees and performance records, and was committed to developing cattle that were sound, efficient and had a calm temperament. The family exhibited Herefords on the national level and Orville was active in cattle producers' organizations and helped youngsters by volunteering as a 4-H leader. He served a term as Nebraska Hereford Association president and was frequently invited to judge regional Hereford exhibitions.
Orville had a special love for horses and took great pride in the family's Quarter Horse herd. As with the cattle breeding program, he paid special attention to the pedigrees, temperament, athleticism and soundness of the mares and stallions on the ranch. He preferred to work the cattle herd the "cowboy way" by using horses to do the livestock moving and sorting chores.
Most of the haying and hay feeding equipment used on the Wishbone ranches had custom improvements that Orville designed and fabricated. He was inventive with a welder and torch and it was rare that a piece of equipment had to be taken to town for repair. He received a patent for a hay stacking implement, and together with his sons, manufactured and marketed the Wishbone calf puller to cattle producers across the Midwest and Rocky Mountain states.
Orville moved to town for the first time in his life in the fall of 2000 when he and Joan dispersed the cow herd and retired to live in Valentine. He authored and self-published the book "Against the Current" in 2009 which colorfully details his life-experiences as a rancher and self-made man.
Orville's younger brothers Norman and George preceded him in death. His wife Joan passed away from cancer in 2008.
He is survived by his youngest brother the Rev. Francis (Dr. Linda) Beyea, Ames, IA; younger sisters Elizabeth Vrooman, Poulson, MT and Carolyn Tubbs, Santee, CA; sister-in-law Helen Frederick, North Platte, NE; sons Kurt (Evelyn), Elmore City, OK and Kyle (Jerri), Gothenburg, NE; daughter Dr. Louise (Robert Cragin), Superior, WI; six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Due to limitations imposed by the viral pandemic, a funeral will not be held. His cremains will be interred at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell, NE and a memorial service will be conducted at a later date. An online guest book is available at www.HolmesFH.com.
Orville's children extend special thanks to Sally Conner and staff at Cherry Hills Estates, and to Cassandra Schill, PA-C, and the nursing staff at Cherry County Hospital.
He was born December 12, 1958, in Belle Fourche, SD, to Arlo James "Buck" Thybo and Karen (Steele) Thybo. He spent his youth on the family ranch south of Reva, SD. He attended country school at the Rock Ranch School just a couple miles from home. He and his brother, Jimmy, spent their days riding in the Slim Buttes, riding calves, yearlings, and whatever else they could capture. He attended eighth grade in Nisland, SD, and high school in Spearfish, SD, where he graduated in 1977. He started riding saddle broncs as a freshman in high school. He continued to ride saddle broncs for several years after school.
Cal worked for the Crago ranches, first for Walt Crago, then later Vince Crago. He worked on the Kudlock ranch for three years before moving to the Bar H Ranch at Reva. The Bar H was special to him because it was an original Thybo family ranch. He managed the Bar H for 21 years, from 1999 until his passing. He worked hard to improve the cows and the grass on the place. He really enjoyed helping the neighbors; he would drop anything when someone needed help. Many of his favorite days were spent working with the neighbor crew. He loved cowboying and spent a lot of long days on horseback. Cal was also a silversmith, accomplished at making bits and spurs. His grandson, Tregg, put a twinkle in his eye.
Cal is survived by the love of his life, Gail Thybo; children, Teresa Thybo, Tyrel (Jamie) Thybo, and Ashley Thybo; his grandson, Tregg Mitchell Thybo; sister, Kay Thybo Kornemann; brother, Jimmy (Rhonda) Thybo; sister, Oddette Thybo Lambert; aunt, Marie (Jimmie) Donohue; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A prayer service will be held at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.
Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2020, at Besler's Cadillac Ranch in St. Onge. Interment will be at Pine Slope Cemetery in Belle Fourche, next to his grandpa, James, and grandma, Mary Thybo.
Jean (Bernasek) Priefert was born March 1, 1935 in Geneva, NE to James and Alba (Fujan) Bernasek. She passed away on June 21, 2020 at her home near Fairmont, Nebraska at the age of 85 years, 3 months, and 20 days.
She graduated from Geneva High School. On September 5, 1954 she married Neil Priefert at the United Brethren Church in Geneva. Neil and Jean were married for 63 years. Four daughters filled their home with activity; Mary, Carol, Linda and Susan.
Jean was a 50-year member of the Fairmont Federated Women's Club. She enjoyed the camaraderie as well as the community mindedness of this group of women. Jean was also an active member of WIFE, Women Involved in Farm Economics. Her task for the weekend of her death was getting a newsletter article written for them. Jean was a founding member of the Nebraska Poll-ettes and served on the National Poll-ette Cookbook Committee typing sections of the cookbook with recipes submitted from around the nation on a Royal manual typewriter at the kitchen table. In 2017 she was honored as the National Hereford Woman of the Year at the American Royal in Kansas City, MO.
Jean enjoyed the outdoors and her animals. Every morning and every evening you could find her "doing chores," feeding cats, dogs, letting the chickens out and feeding grain to the cows. While spending years in the registered cattle business, it wasn't unusual to find a calf being warmed in the bathtub, or a chicken being nurtured back to health after falling in the oil pit. While many used the Sunbeam electric skillet to fry chicken on the kitchen counter, Jean hatched baby chicks in hers. The story had been told of Jean, classmates Elaine and Helen Carol, being caught with a kitten hidden in a box in their Home Ec class by Miss Betty Christiancy. Betty Christiancy went on to be Betty Betka, who was Jean's daughters 4-H leader.
The registered cattle herd was an integral part of Jean's life on the farm. Hours were spent at the kitchen table filling out registration forms, recording birth weights, and weaning weights. The neighborhood party line let callers know when Jean wasn't home and let Jean know someone was looking for a bull. Life-long friendships developed as the family spent time each summer attending cattle tours with the Riffel family, county and state fairs, Junior Nationals and AK-SAR-BEN, auctions in the winter, and progress shows in the spring. Jean and Neil enjoyed traveling the country to the Standard of Perfection Shows in Kansas City, Denver, Fort Worth and Portland. Neil and Jean were avid supporters of young people in the beef industry, hence the Neil Priefert Scholarship for a member of the Nebraska Junior Hereford Association. In recent years, Jean and Neil were staples at the Sutton sale barn for lunch on Fridays. They recorded the lot number, weight and price of every animal that went thru the ring.
Jean farmed right along side her husband. It wasn't unusual to see her on the tractor, headed to the field. She also made many parts runs for Neil. It is quite possible some of those parts were to repair equipment she'd been using. Tractors didn't always have cabs then, but Jean was happy if the tractor had a radio so she could listen to polkas, KRVN and baseball games on KFAB.
Jean coached countless innings of girls' softball in Fairmont. Playing catch in the yard with her daughters was a normal part of summers. She played many seasons on the Fairmont Lion's Club women's team. She could be counted on to try a bunt and steal a base. The women's team's season culminated at the Strang Tournament where the team won the coveted trophy several successive seasons. Her pregnancy with youngest daughter Susan was kept a secret from everyone so Grandma Bernasek wouldn't be upset to see Jean continuing to catch behind home plate with Bonnie Nelson on the mound.
Jean spent her working career as a Cottage Parent at YRTC in Geneva. Following her retirement from YRTC, she drove for Eichman's transport company in York. She transported Epworth Village residents and clients to school and varioius appointments. Any unwholesome conversations or arguments between students brought them an exposure to Jean's Czech heritage as she turned up her polka music on the radio.
Jean was a pioneer in her own right. She was concerned about ground water, soil conditions, and proper care of animals. She was an avid gardener, promoting nutrition to her family before it was a public health initiative. What would be called family bonding time today, took place on the back step as Jean and the girls snapped 5-gallon buckets of green beans while swatting mosquitos. Jean was a tireless supporter of the beef industry and providing home-raised beef for her family. She spent many years supporting youth, sitting on the bleachers watching ballgames and cattle shows after her own family was raised. She spoke her mind and was proud of her heritage. She cared deeply about sports opportunities and education for girls. She truly was ahead of her time.
Jean was proceeded in death by her husband Neil, her parents, James and Alba Bernasek and in-laws Elmer and Margaret Priefert.
Those who remain are: Daughters: Mary (Dana) Scott of York, NE; Carol (David Wentworth) Priefert of Centennial, WY; Linda (Kirby) Zuerlein of Fairmont, NE; Susan (Brandon) Priefert Voss of Sisters, OR. Grandchildren: Zac (Amanda) Scott of York, NE; Nick (Kelsey) Scott of Norfolk, NE; Ryan (Sara Stearns) Scott of York, NE; Adam (Anna) Scott of Lincoln, Curtis (Sydney) Scott of Gretna, NE; Lindsey Carroll of Lincoln; Danielle (Dakota) Cooper of York, NE; and Leslie Carroll of Fairmont, NE. Great-grandchildren: Jane Scott, Ethan Stearns, Hudson and Wyatt Scott, and Dominic, Derek & Dusty Cooper.
A Funeral Service for Jean was held on Friday, June 26, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the Fairmont Community Church. Pastor SeungLi You officiated the service. Gwenda Mau accompanied the congregation in the singing of "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" and "For The Beauty Of The Earth." She also played the instrumental recessional, "Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie."
Pallbearers for the service included Zac Scott, Nick Scott, Ryan Scott, Curtis Scott, Adam Scott, and Dakota Cooper.
It was Jean's wish to be cremated following the Funeral Service. A private committal of ashes will take place in the Fairmont Public Cemetery at a later date.
Farmer & Son Funeral Home was in care of the arrangements and online condolences can be left at www.farmerandsonfuneralhome.com
Memorials are suggested to the Neil Priefert Scholarship Fund or the Fairmont Community Church.
Floyd Peter Richard of Rolette, N.D., died peacefully in his home on Friday, May 29, 2020, at the glorious age of 91. A private family funeral will be held on Monday, June 1, 2020 at 3:00 pm at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Rolette. His funeral will be live streamed at https://youtu.be/kJt_0aqsYSw
Floyd was born January 4, 1929, in the Rolette Hospital to George and Anna (Boucher) Richard. Growing up through the Great Depression and Dust Bowl, Floyd was always enthralled with his parent's farming operation, recounting numerous stories about bringing lunch to the field as a young boy, then threshing and hauling bundles as a teenager.
Floyd's formal education ceased at 8th grade as he struck out on his own at age 14, yet his thirst for knowledge – particularly about agriculture – never stopped. As a young man, he farmed with his brother Art and made ends meet by installing heating systems for a local contractor. A 1952 scholarship to a "Short Course in Agriculture" at North Dakota State University (NDSU) in Fargo, N.D., solidified his decision to farm. He went on to farm for 66 years in Rolette, Pierce and Bottineau Counties, retiring from the profession at age 85. He saw the evolution of agriculture from literal horse-power, to today's precision ag, survived droughts, floods, depressed farm markets and the farming crisis of the 1980's. Floyd epitomized Paul Harvey's writing "So God Made a Farmer." He rejoiced in seeing a field of ripe wheat or a newborn Polled Hereford calf.
On June 10, 1954, Floyd married Carmen Leonard of Fonda, N.D., at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Thorne, N.D. The couple made their home 10 miles southwest of Rolette, where they raised six children, each of whom share their Dad's love of agriculture.
Throughout his farming career, Floyd was recognized by numerous groups and organizations, being named a North Dakota Seedstock Producer of the Year by the ND Beef Cattle Improvement Association (NDBCIA), an Honorary State and Chapter Farmer from the FFA, an Outstanding Conservationist by the Rolette County Soil Conservation District and Rolette County Agriculturist of the Year by the Rolette County NDSU Extension Service. He was a charter member of the National Cattlemen's Association, president of the North Dakota Polled Hereford Association, a 26-year member of the North Dakota Stockmen's Association, and a member of the NDBCIA. He was proud to have exported Polled Hereford cattle to Chile in the late 1960's.
His opinions were as strong as his Catholic faith, which he lived out in quiet action, as a member of the Knights of Columbus and active participant in the men's Cursillo. He served 18 years on the Rolette Hospital Board of Directors.
Floyd could strike up a conversation with anyone and had the uncanny ability to make others laugh. He enjoyed a good joke, a strong handshake, playing cards, and dancing to the music of a live band. When he wasn't farming, he absolutely relished a heated political debate among family or friends – particularly if the subject was. . . farming. He had more common sense than many with advanced education and could calculate numbers in his head faster than they could be punched into a calculator – routinely pricing the cost of the girls' shopping trips in bushels of wheat.
Floyd is survived by his loving family, wife of 65 years Carmen, his children: daughter Cheryl (Keith) Anderson of Walcott, N.D.; sons Daniel (Mary) Richard, Curt (Cindy) Richard, Craig Richard and Mark (Lanette) Richard all of Rolette, N.D.; and daughter Sheyna (Aaron) Strommen of Fort Rice, N.D.; 10 grandchildren Brady Anderson, David (Kari) Anderson and Ryan Anderson, Chelsey (Eric) Rongen, Kacie (Lacey) Richard, Riley Richard, Megan Richard, and Cassidy, Cooper and Clint Strommen; and 4 great grandchildren Ridley and Ryker Rongen, Sadie Richard and Hayden Richard. He is also survived by a sister Stella Schimetz of Dunseith and brother Donald (Marlys) Richard of Bottineau.
He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Irene Lagasse and brothers Ernest, Arthur and Gene Richard.
In Lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be given to the Rolette Ambulance Service.
Donna L. Vanier Donna L. Vanier, 85, passed away Saturday, May 23, 2020. The scriptures say, "To whom much is given, much will be required." Luke 12:48. To Donna Vanier, this was much more than Biblical council. It was a way of life. Born in Salina, Kansas, on October 24, 1934 to Willis and Helen Lindsey, Donna is preceded in death by her parents and brother, Douglas. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, John K. (Jack) Vanier, daughter Mary Vanier of Manhattan, daughter Dr. Marty Vanier of Manhattan and her stepchildren Katie, Kirsten and Kathy, and son John K. Vanier II of Salina, his daughters Lauren and Sarah, his wife Kim, and stepchildren Pallie, Landon, Jess, Ty, Jake & Norah. Donna Vanier possessed an outlook on life that focused on others and needed to look no further than her own family and community to make a difference. When her family's way of life called, Donna replied with time, talent and treasure. Donna lived most of her adult life with her husband on the CK Ranch outside of Brookville, Kansas. As matriarch of a ranch family, Donna's commitment to their way of life did not stop at the fence line. She worked harder at CK Ranch than anyone; active in all aspects of the cattle business including producing the ranch's annual production sale catalogs, hosting countless ranch tour groups, tracking cattle inventories, and making employees and their families feel valued and appreciated. Her dedication and support of her family and her family's work was motivated by care and kindness. She was one of the founders of the American Hereford Association Auxiliary and sought to ensure leadership in the next generation of agriculture by offering scholarships through the Hereford Youth Foundation and the Kansas 4-H Foundation. When Salina Kansas called, Donna Vanier answered with benevolence. She served as the driving force behind the creation of the Donna L. Vanier Children's Center which opened in 2012. Donna also served many years as: treasurer of the Christ Cathedral Episcopal Church and the Episcopal Diocese of Western Kansas; founding board member of the Greater Salina Community Foundation; Chair of the governing Boards of the Salina Regional Health Foundation, the Rolling Hills Museum, and St. John's Military School; and was a contributing member to countless other local boards and organizations. When Kansas State University called, Donna responded with generosity. At Kansas State, her service and leadership included roles on the KSU Foundation Board of Directors, the Ahearn Scholarship Board, where she originated the Powercat Auction, and Chair of the Beach Museum of Art Board of Visitors. Through these acts and countless others, Donna earned the Kansas State University Medal of Excellence, which recognizes those who have advanced K-State through exceptional service, leadership and philanthropic contributions. When her friends and family called, Donna was always there with love. Not one to forget a birthday, anniversary or other significant milestone, Donna was the truest of friends and a source of wisdom and kindness. Her many friends from the Salina area, the cattle business and the K-State family brought her immense joy. To whom much is given, much will be required. The scripture from Luke is an exhortation to vigilance. Generosity, strength, benevolence, toughness, vigilance. Over the generations, the Kansas culture has cultivated an apt description for people like Donna Vanier. She was a do-gooder. Wherever she went, Donna Vanier did good. The scripture ends, "And of him to whom they have entrusted much, they will demand more." Donna understood innately what God expected of her and her life reflected it. Funeral service plans will be made and announced when COVID-19 gathering restrictions are lifted. The family suggests memorial gifts to any of the following organizations: the St. Francis Ministries of Salina; the KSU Foundation; the Christ Cathedral Endowment Fund in Salina; the Meadowlark Hills Good Samaritan Fund in Manhattan; and St. Paul's Episcopal Church of Manhattan. Memorials may be sent in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th Street, Salina, Kansas 67401
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Jan. 19, 1937 - May 26, 2020
Bing Ashcraft died at his home in Twin Bridges May 26, 2020. He was born to Ernest and Fern Ashcraft on January 19, 1937, at Fort Peck, Montana. He graduated from high school in Twin Bridges and held the state class C javelin record for many years. He sang in the high school choir. His team won a tournament after their coach insisted they all drink a shot of whiskey before singing.
He married Jackie Hopper. They had two sons, Barry and Ron.
Bing was a Boy Scout leader and it didn't matter if there were no fish in that lake, the scouts were still going to hike up to it and go fishing.
Bing worked for the Bayers Ranch for 22 years. He showed cattle all over the west. Then he worked for George Swan, and finally for the Hamilton Ranch. He retired after he wore his knees out.
He loved to hunt, fish, drink and tell stories. That continued after his knees were worn out. He was an expert teller of many unprintable poems.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jackie; son, Ron; and siblings, Eleanore, Norman, Martha and Maida Lee.
He is survived by Barry; two grandchildren, Jenny and Kevin; six great-grandchildren; brother, Dwight (Sally) Ashcraft; and sister-in-law, Gay Ashcraft.
Cremation has taken place. There will be no services. There will be a celebration of life at a later date.
Harold was born May 14, 1939 in Fort Collins, Colorado, a son of the late Frederick and Georgia (Townley) Sidwell.
Harold loved farming and ranching and was actively involved in numerous organizations including serving as president of Belvore Grazing Association, Oklahoma Hereford Association, Wyoming Hereford Association, Colorado Hereford Association, American Hereford Association, Weld RE-9 School Board, Nunn Presbyterian Church, and served as a deacon for the First Presbyterian Church in Cheyenne. He was inducted into the American Hereford Association Hall of Fame in 2011, and he was honored as a Century Hereford Breeder within the American Hereford Association in 2008. Harold exhibited many champion Herefords on a local, state, and national level. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather, and his three passions: God, family, and Horned Hereford cattle.
Harold is survived by his loving wife, Marlene Sidwell of 61 years; sons, Warren (Jolene) Sidwell and Bryan (Linda) Sidwell; daughter, Cheryl Sidwell; brother, Richard (Becky) Sidwell; grandson, Matthew (Laurie) Sidwell; granddaughters, Valerie Langston, Shaylea (Sheldon) Chadwick, and Brooke Hinojosa-Sidwell; and three great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents; son, Harold "Todd" Sidwell; and brother, Walter Sidwell.
A graveside service will be conducted on Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. at Mountain View Cemetery in Nunn, Colorado. A celebration of life will be held later this summer with a date and time to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Nunn Fire Department.
Condolences may be offered to the family on-line at www.schradercares.com.
Punk was baptized and confirmed at Pleasant View Lutheran Church in Pleasant Valley Township near Ada, MN. He went on to graduate from Ada High School in 1956, and during his time there was very active in both 4-H and FFA. After graduation, he began farming the third generation farm with his father while establishing a herd of registered Black Angus cattle. Punk's interest in raising and showing Black Angus was cultivated under the guidance of his dear friend Floyd Myers, who was like a brother to him.
On March 10, 1965, Punk married Diana (Miller) Bauer and in true cattleman fashion, they spent their honeymoon at the Valley City Stock Show. Their family was blessed with three children, all of whom he enjoyed spending time with while teaching the art of showing cattle and working with horses. Punk never forgot his love for Angus cattle and always stayed current on what was happening in that industry.
Punk moved his family and cattle herd to Vale, SD, in 1982 where he continued his love for farming and ranching. Many trips were made back and forth between Minnesota and South Dakota over the years to stay connected with family and friends. He always said he never regretted the move to South Dakota, and his family wholeheartedly agreed with him. It was an adventure for him in this ranching country, most especially meeting and making lifelong friends with neighbors and fellow cattle producers.
Punk worked for Butte County as the Weed and Pest Supervisor for many years and retired in 1999. After retirement, he served for three years on the South Dakota Weed and Pest Commission. During his retirement, he enjoyed his irrigated alfalfa farm, feeding a few cattle and dabbling in the sheep business.
Along with the move to South Dakota, he came to be interested in Western history and became quite knowledgeable on the subject. Punk was a voracious reader and read everything he could about ranching history and how the big ranches shaped and influenced ranching country. This interest led to his passion for collecting Old West memorabilia which he enjoyed doing until his passing. Through this love of old cowboy lore, he became involved with some wonderful people and was an integral part of the "Cowboy Heritage Collectable Auction" that was held during the Rapid City Stock Show from 1994-2014. He was honored by the Black Hills Stock Show Foundation with the "Gathering the History" award and was granted an honorary lifetime membership. In 2014, he was inducted in to the National Bit, Spur, Saddle Collector Association Hall of Fame for his contributions to the NBSSCA.
He is survived by his wife, Diana Bauer. They were blessed to have celebrated 55 years of marriage on March 10, 2020. He is survived by three children, John Bauer (special friend, Judi) of Jackson, WY, James Bauer of Columbus, NM, and Teresa (Robert) Huston of Valdez, AK; he lives on through his grandchildren, Jesse Bauer, Jordan Bauer and Taylor Huston.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Florence in 1969, and his father, Winfred, Sr. in 1981.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.
Jake was a well-known and respected cattle rancher who concentrated his efforts on improving the Hereford and Angus breeds to give the consumer a higher quality product. In 1987, the First National Bank of Spokane awarded him the grand champion award for a load of yearling steers. A true conservationist in 1997 he received the wild life farm of the year award from the Adams county Conservation District and in 1984 he received Ducks Unlimited award for his conservation practices. In 1981 he was awarded the conservation Farmer of the year award. Community Service was important to Jake. He served on the first Adams County Board of Equalization. He served several terms on the Adams County Sheriffs Civil Services Committee. He served 8 terms as a fire district number 1 commissioner. He was a member of the National Cattleman's Association, a member of the Washington Cattleman's Association, and served a term on the executive committee. Jake was a local member of the Lions Club, he also was one of the building architects in the restoration of the Legion Hall and the building of the amphitheater. He was one of the founding fathers of the Rodeo association and served a term as president. Jake the poet- often wrote amazing poems about his friends; the artist he enjoyed creating things out of metal. The life size metal sculpture of the cowboy on display in Ritzville was created by Jake "The story teller". Jake passed away on April 13, 2020 leaving behind his wife Joan of 59 years. Survived by children: J.C., Paige (Louise), Cameron (Chari); grandchild, Renae. Great grandchildren: Dean Clark and Etta May Harder. Jake loved people, so it is only fitting that we have a memorial for him sometime later on. To leave online condolences for the Harder family please visit our website at www.danekasfh.com
Kenneth "Kenny" Alfred Carlsen, age 70, of Newell, died Sunday, March 29, 2020 as the result of a tragic 4-wheeler accident that happened on his ranch, north of Newell.
Visitation will be held 3 to 7pm Friday, April 3rd, 2020 at Leverington Funeral Home of the Northern Hills in Belle Fourche. Graveside services will be held 12 noon Central Standard Time on Monday, April 6th, 2020 at the Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Fairfax SD.
Memorials are preferred to the Castle Rock Fire Department.
Kenneth A. Carlsen was the third child and only son of Alfred and Vera Zeisler Carlsen. He was born on February 24, 1950 at Mitchell, S.D. His first home was the "North Place" which overlooked the Missouri River. The river and river hills played an important part in his life as it provided an opportunity for boating, water skiing, hunting with Uncle Andy, a partner in the Carlsen Bros Ranch, and hunting rattlesnakes with his friend Vic Koenig. He attended Star Valley Country School as the only student in his class. Star Valley Students were lifelong friends as they were one big "family". When the country schools closed, he attended Fairfax School and graduated with the class of 1968. Sen. George McGovern was the commencement speaker. During high school he participated in sports and also attended Boys State as the representative of his class. On a football scholarship he attended one year of college at Southern State College at Springfield, S.D. Other activities he enjoyed were snow skiing and bull riding at rodeos. He loved his mother's cooking and the plentiful ranch dinners she prepared. He also took several trips with his parents and grandparents and had many stories to tell!
In 1993, he made the move to his ranch at Castle Rock, The Carlsen Homestead! His ranch was his pride and joy and he installed miles and miles of water lines and fences while making many improvements to the ranch. He transitioned from a sheep ranch to a cattle ranch. Castle Rock, a majestic mountain could be viewed from any place on the ranch and it enticed many to climb!
Twenty years ago, he met Mary Mentele, his fiancé and forever companion. They enjoyed family celebrations and activities and persevered through happy and sad times. They enjoyed activities at the ranch with neighbors working together on branding days and just being supportive and helpful to their "western" neighbors. He didn't like to travel too far from the ranch, but when he did he enjoyed going to the Spring bull sales.
Kenny was a member of the Castle Rock Volunteer Fire Dept. He was always willing to help with a project as needed.
Kenny loved to give tours of his ranch and if you were one of those lucky individuals it was an extensive tour with a wealth of information.
He is survived by his sisters: Charlene Carlsen Bringelson (Gene); Jeanne Carlsen Nelson (Rick) niece Nicole Jean Nelson and nephew Nicolaus Tate Nelson; fiancé Mary Mentele and her children Elizabeth Mentele and Alex Mentele; and God Daughter, Jess Heil of Newell.
He was preceded in death by his parents Alfred and Vera Zeisler Carlsen; uncle, Andrew B. Carlsen; maternal grandparents Emil and Martha Kehn Zeisler; paternal grandparents Chris and Cecilia Olsen Carlsen; and friend Donnie Taylor.
Services will be held at a later date.
Leslie "Les" Joseph Fritz was born in Belfield on March 15, 1915. He was the eldest son of Joe and Lucy (O'Brien) Fritz. He was raised near Gorham and attended area schools through the eighth grade, seven years of which his mother was the teacher. He had two older sisters, Margaret "Marge" and Helen "Pudd" and two younger brothers, Henry "Hank" and James "Jim". He grew up working hard and doing the things he loved, working with horses and tending cattle and crops and being close to his Fritz and O'Brien cousins.
Les and his brother Hank stayed on the place after his parents moved to Medora and his dad became the Billings County Sheriff. Times were too tight for everyone to stay home. During the war years, he volunteered, but after a month as sent home with an honorable discharge. After the years of drought, war and depression, he and Hank settled about 20 miles south of Belfield on a place they bought for taxes. There he met a pretty gal from Washington, Ollie Smedley, that was visiting cousins in the neighborhood. They married in 1945 and soon after, an opening came up to manage the Evangelical Lutheran Church Ranch that neighbored him. There they raised their three children and enjoyed the wonderful neighborhood and all of the activities. During the 60's they were given the opportunity to buy the ranch. They moved to Dickinson in the 80's and sold the ranch to the boys. They thoroughly enjoyed their retirement; gardening, playing cards, visiting, and traveling. When Ollie passed away in 2005, Les moved into Evergreen Assisted Living. He loved it there and the staff was wonderful to him, even playing horseshoes and cribbage with him until he was over a hundred. He finally had to move to St. Benedict's Health Center in May of 2019 where he lived until his death on March 23, 2020.
Les spend the majority of his years raising cattle, horses and kids. He enjoyed them all and taught his children and grandchildren to do so too. Les was a devoted father and husband. He knew how to make do with what he had and fix the problems when they arose. He enjoyed telling a story about the old times and old friends and family and was a remarkable source of information about those times. He and his brother, Jim, were honored as "Rancher of the Year" by the Roughrider Rodeo in 2014. He was also honored to be in a book about people of the United States over 100 years old and photographers from Carhartt came and took some photographs for possible use in advertising.
Les passed peacefully from this life on March 23, 2020. He is survived by daughter, Connie (Lynn) Weishaar of Reva, S.D.; son, Larry (Linda), of Hermosa, S.D.; and daughter-in-law, Chunks, of Belfield. He enjoyed visiting with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Erik (Alicia) Fritz [Pete, Beth, Stephanie], Seth (Nicole) Weishaar [Shaine, Sern, Slone], Jerad (Sarah) Fritz [Madi, Owen], Jodi (Rob) Hendrickson [Ollie, Scout], Tyler (Kayla Benson) Fritz [Janie, Cain, Lauren, Keaton, Kendall, Riley] and Stoney (Maria) Fritz [Kenedee, Olga]; sisters-in-law, Donna Fritz and Patricia "Rusty" McCarter; and numerous family and friends.
Les was preceded in death by his wife, Ollie; son, Rocky Fritz; grandson, Quain Fritz; brothers, Hank and Jim; and sisters, Marge (Ed) Schmeling and Helen Fritz.
Mr. George Campbell Edgar passed away peacefully at the Red Deer Hospice on March 16, 2020 at the age of 85 years. George was born in Innisfail, Alberta to Mabel and Wilfrid Edgar on September 7, 1934 and lived his entire life on the Little Red Deer Hereford Farm in the District of Little Red Deer located west of Innisfail. He attended LRD School House, Red Deer Composite High School and Olds College.
George will be fondly remembered and respected for his love of farming and his pride in being a cattleman. He was an avid sportsman and outdoorsman. George will be lovingly remembered by his wife Marjorie, his son Peter of Bowden, Alberta, Wilf of Innisfail, Penny of Red Deer and Keith of Denver as well as nine grandchildren and one great grandchild. George was predeceased by his father Wilfrid in 1978, his mother Mabel in 1984 and three siblings, William (Bill) Edgar, Robert Edgar and Jean Novel. Arrangements in care of Heartland Funeral Services, 4415 – 49 Street, Innisfail, Alberta, 403.227.0006.
Harry Born, 92, passed into eternity on Monday, March 9, 2020, at his home in Follett less than one mile from where he was born. A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at the First Baptist Church in Darrouzett with Rev. Stephen Ammons officiating. Family visitation will be at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home in Perryton on Tuesday, March 10, 2020, 5:00-7:00 p.m. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home, Inc. of Perryton, Texas.
Harry was born and raised in Lipscomb County and graduated from Darrouzett High School in 1945 after attending a one room schoolhouse for many years where he rode horseback to school. He met his wife, Lillian, at a Congregational Church conference and they married in 1950 and raised four sons: Stanley, Darrell, Lynn, and James. To date, Harry and Lillian have eight grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
Harry enlisted in the Air Force in 1952. His basic training was at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. He was then transferred to Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas, where he was trained as a B-36 mechanic. During this time, he was sent to Guam for a time to work on B-50 airplanes. He was then transferred back to Roswell. He also trained for a time at B-47 Mechanic School at Amarillo, Texas.
Harry spent four years active duty and four years reserve duty in the Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1960. After serving in the Air Force, Harry returned back home to continue working at the ranch in Lipscomb County and over time built the farming operation into Ochiltree County as well. In the early years from the 1940's to the 1960's a partnership was formed with his father and brother, known as Alex Born & Sons. In the later years, Harry and his sons operated Born Herefords providing outstanding Hereford cattle to ranchers across the United States. Harry also built up his farming operation in both in Lipscomb County and Ochiltree County where he farmed both grain sorghum and wheat. After his retirement, he was active in helping his sons farm and ranch for many years. He also enjoyed camping and fishing throughout his lifetime.
Harry was active in the community by serving on the Darrouzett Independent School Board for a number of years. He also was awarded the title of Lipscomb County Soil and Water Conservation Farmer of the Year in 1993 and was inducted into the Texas Hereford Association as an honorary member.
The most important aspect of Harry's life was his devotion to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He became a Christian in 1951 at a revival in Shattuck, Oklahoma. He was a member of St. John's Congregational Church in Follett for 67 years from 1927-1994. Harry served in the church in several roles including: deacon, trustee, treasurer, Sunday school superintendent, and Sunday school teacher. He has been an active member of the First Baptist Church in Darrouzett since 1994.
Harry is preceded in death by his parents Alex and Selma Born, son Darrell Born, sister Irene Hamburger, brother-in-law Harvey Hamburger, granddaughter Tamara Born, and great-grandson Sterling Franks.
Harry is survived by his loving wife of nearly 70 years, Lillian, and their three sons: Stanley (Ronda) Born of Darrouzett, Lynn (Rayma) Born of Follett, and James (Dana) Born of Perryton; one brother, Leroy (Gertrude) Born of Darrouzett. Other survivors include his grandchildren Terri (Gene) Franks, Weston (Kristin) Born, Nicole (Eric) Woodson, Jessica (Bryan) Bell, Lane Born (fiancée Shayne Gallagher), Lonnie (Chelsea) Born, Ethan Born, and Evan Born. He is also survived by greatgrandchildren Sheldon (Taylor) Franks, Sierra Franks, Sheridan Franks, Shayne Franks, Sheyenne Franks, Hudson Born, Kortlyn Born, Cambryn Born, Breckyn Born, Kulton Garton, Ryker Garton, Dash Garton, Alexis Bell, Brooklyn Bell, and Landon Born. He is also survived by great-great grandchildren Gunner Franks and Truitt Franks as well as a host of nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will miss his soft voice, gentle smiles, and always caring attitude. He loved the Lord, his family, farming, and good cattle and left a rich and lasting heritage.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Ochiltree General Hospice Volunteers, 3101 Garrett, Perryton, Tx 79070 or the First Baptist Church of Darrouzett, 110 Santa Fe Ave, Darrouzett, Tx 79024
Zionsville - John E Ward passed away on February 14, 2020 in Zionsville, Indiana at age 90. John was born in Walton, Indiana, and then moved to Brookston as a school boy, where he lived the rest of his life until the last six months when he moved closer to family. With his wife of 62 years, Norma Kay Allen of Brookston, they established their corn, soybean, and livestock farm, on which they raised their family and champion Herefords.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Albert Lee and Martha Knapp Ward and Richard Ward; as well as his wife, Norma Kay (Allen) Ward. John is survived by his brother, Dale Ward, and his sister, Mary Ward Guiffre, and his four children and their families: Gay Ward Maddox, Neal Ward and Avery Jessup, Ned and Jan Ward, and Curt and Kristy Ward. In addition, John loved his 7 grandchildren and their spouses: Amy (Maddox) & Brian Kavicky, Lynn (Maddox) & Kurt Strueh, Clay & Becky Maddox, Bell Ward, Jack Ward, and Kate Ward; and 7 great grandchildren: Nate Kavicky, Ella Kavicky, Ashley Strueh, Zach Strueh, Rachel Strueh, Weston Maddox, and Chase Maddox.
John's life was rooted on the farm that he and Norma successfully established in Brookston, but his life of service and leadership extended beyond that through his own efforts and those of his family. He served on the Board of Directors for more than 50 years of the Farmers State Bank of Brookston and the Board of Directors of the Lafayette Home Hospital, and in many capacities serving the Federated Church of Brookston, including the Board of Elders. He was also a member of the Brookston Masonic Lodge. After his own success in 4-H, all his children continued that winning tradition at the White County Fair and Indiana State Fair. He eventually became and Director of the Indiana State Fair, serving as President in 1988, and in that year was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash. Though he was talented and a fierce competitor at many sports, basketball was his favorite and he continued to remain active in basketball through officiating the sport as an IHSAA referee for 27 years culminating in an Indiana title game in 1974, and then years of service to the Big Ten Conference as an officials observer at Purdue University.
His family will carry his generous and hard-working spirit with them in the days to come. Their success has been shaped by his pride in a job well done, his attention to the up keep of his farm, and the welcome he gave to all he met.
Join them in celebrating his life on Sunday, February 23, 4pm-7pm at Hartzler-Clapper Funeral Home in Brookston and Monday, February 24, 11am at Federated Church of Brookston.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to the White County Ag Association directed to the White County Fair Beef Barn.
Share memories and condolences online at www.clapperfuneralservices.com
Services for Mark Oliver Stephens, of Wesson, are at 11 a.m., Friday, March 6, 2020, at Clear Branch Baptist Church in Wesson, with interment at Sylvarena Baptist Church Cemetery in Wesson. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., Thursday, March 5, at Riverwood Family and will resume at 10 a.m. Friday at Clear Branch until the time of service.
Mr. Stephens, 65, passed away quietly at his home on March 1, 2020. Mark was born December 23, 1954, in Brookhaven, to Ted Oliver Stephens and Jimmy Ruth Joyner Stephens. He was a member of Clear Branch Baptist Church, Wesson.
He attended high school both within the United States and abroad, before graduating High School from The Joint Embassy School, Jakarta, Indonesia. He attended Copiah-Lincoln Junior College, Wesson.
Mark was an avid outdoorsman his entire life and was an enthusiastic knife collector. His love of the outdoors led to many lifelong friendships. Mark also enjoyed sports; especially baseball, basketball and football, and for many years he coached youth baseball in Wesson.
He loved all types of hunting and fishing, mostly saltwater fly fishing and spent many happy times with friends at hunting camps and on his boat in the Louisiana marsh. Mark also loved to vacation in the scenic outdoors and fish the White River in Arkansas. Another ritual that he cherished was making "old fashioned cane syrup" with his Tolar family and distributing their syrup to family and friends. He loved every moment spending time with them.
Mark's proudest achievements were being a wonderful father to his two beloved children. He was an enthusiastic supporter of his children's registered Hereford cattle activities while they were growing up, which included numerous trips across the country exhibiting their cattle. He was a proud and doting Pawpaw to Mark Kypton and Ellie Ann, the new loves of his life.
Preceding him in death are his father, Ted Oliver Stephens, mother, Jimmy Ruth Joyner Stephens; father-in-law, Lawrence M. "Buddy" Lowery; mother-in-law, Julia Lee Lowery; paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Stephens; and maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Doyle Joyner.
Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Julia Ann Lowery Stephens; son, Christopher Mark Stephens; daughter, Erica Ann Lofton; son-in-law, Don Louis "Boomer" Lofton; and grandchildren, Mark Kypton Lofton and Ellie Ann Lofton. He is also survived by his brother, Tim Stephens; sister, Melissa Stephens, and their families; sisters-in-law, Myra Lowery and Nancy King and husband Mike King and their families; as well as his cousin, Cynthia Miller and other loving family members and friends.
The family requests memorials be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, and The Hereford Youth Foundation of America, 11500 NW Ambassador Dr., Suite 410, Kansas City, Mo 64153.
Richard A. Crow; 1925-2020
Richard (Dick) Ashton Crow passed away Feb. 20, at his home in Denver, CO. Dick was a Christmas baby, born Dec. 25, 1925 to Nelson and Mary Jo Crow, in Los Angeles CA. Nelson was the founder of the Western Livestock Journal, which he started in 1922. Dick grew up around the livestock industry and eventually made a career out of it. He served his country in the Navy during World War II, assigned to the aircraft carrier, USS Hancock, serving in the Pacific Theater. After his Navy service, he attended Claremont College, then a men's college in Pomona, CA. Dick had four younger siblings, Sue, Joe, John, and Bill, who all preceded him in death.
Dick went to work for his father, Nelson, and first became a fieldman for the Western Dairy Journal while raising a family in Newport Beach, CA. Then he and his family moved to Colorado where he served as a fieldman for the Western Livestock Journal. Dick became publisher of WLJ in 1968. He also had a passion for travel and traveled the world with WLJ Tours. He visited every major continent, though never made it to Antarctica because there are no cattle there.
Dick retired from WLJ in 2000 after working side by side with his son, Pete, for 14 years. Pete continues to serve as publisher as WLJ approaches its 100th year in business.
Dick married Sally Corbit in California and they had two children; Katie Crow of Port Townsend, WA; and his son, Pete, who both survive him. Dick and Sally divorced after 30 years. He then married Barbara Peck and they made their home in Franktown, CO, where he enjoyed gardening. Barbara shared his passion for travel and participated in many WLJ ranch tours. She passed in 2017. His long-time friend, Marylin Montgomery, took care of him until his death.
Dick had two grandchildren, Lauren (Hogan) Jones, and David Crow who passed in 2013.
Dick loved his family, friends and his country. At his request, in lieu of services, Dick asked that his ashes be taken to the Continental Divide of Colorado to be scattered, half on the west side of the Rockies and half on the east side.
July 31, 1993 - Feb. 17, 2020
Funeral Services for Jessica Snyder, 26, of South Heart will be 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Dickinson with Pastor Lisa Lewton Officiating. Burial will take place at Belfield Lutheran Cemetery.
Visitation for Jessica will be 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 pm Monday, with a prayer service being held at 6:00 p.m.
Jessica passed away on Monday, February 17, 2020 at her home in South Heart.
Jessica Marie Snyder was born July 31, 1993 in Minot, ND to Tracy and Wendy. She grew up in Minot and attended Minot Public Schools and then transferred to Our Redeemers Christian School. Jessica was always a high spirited little girl, creating many journeys for her parents. Her smile was as beautiful as they come. She enjoyed spending time at the lake and camping growing up, she caught many fish with her Dad. She could tell many hunting stories, she loved deer hunting and was an excellent shot pheasant hunting. She was involved in softball, volleyball and basketball. Jessica was never one to miss a prank on her brother growing up or food fights.
She later moved from Minot to Dickinson. Jessica discovered she loved the western part of the state and enjoyed seeing the Badlands. Jessica welcomed two little boys to the family: Isaiah and Benjamin. She made her home in South Heart and Jessica was thrilled to own her first home.
Family meant everything to Jessica. She was an amazing mother and loved her boys with all of her heart. She enjoyed trips to the zoo, Medora, camping trips to South Dakota, picnics, going to the park, swimming, campfires, taking trips to Minot to see her Dad, Aunts, Uncles and the farm to visit her Mom and Rollie. She had recently developed a love of cooking and trying new recipes. She was creative in her recipes to find things that Isaiah would eat. Jessica and her mother had a close bond and talked on phone many times a day and did not go long without seeing each other. Jessica was blessed with 2 great step parents. She developed a special relationship with her step-father, Rollie, and they enjoyed each other's company greatly. Her Step-mother, Staci has been so kind and supportive.
Jessica is survived by her mom, Wendy (Rollie) Baumgarten; dad, Tracy (Staci) Snyder; sons, Isaiah and Benjamin; Brother, Jordan (Nicole) Snyder and their children, Hunter and Kimber, step-brother, Jake (Savanna) Baumgarten, step-sister, April Baumgarten. Grandparents; Don (Greta) Snyder, Sharron Snyder. Uncles and Aunts; Scott (Nancy) Snyder, Don Snyder, DeeMaris (Rod) Buckingham, Lori (Jamie) Nelson, Kelly (Darin) Opperude, Patrick(Cammy) McCarty. Cousin: Sean (Melissa)Hagen, Tara (Justin) Petrali, Travis (Kaitlin) Buckingham, Thomas (Jenny) Buckingham, Shane McCarty, Riley Opperude, Braedon McCarty, Bailey McCarty, Brandon Lipe, Brittany(Jesus) Jimenez, Kierianna Klinginsmith, Kirsten Nelson. Ryan McCarty, Joshua McCarty, Matthew McCarty, Savanna McCarty. Whitney (Chris) Croft, Kaylee (Jon) Gappmaier, Katie Snyder, Gavin Snyder.
She is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Jack and DeeMaris McCarty, Uncle; Jay McCarty.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Benjamin and Isaiah Keel's trust fund set up at Town and Country Credit Union in Minot, ND.
Trenton Hofer, age 24, of Brookings and formerly of Hitchcock, passed away Saturday, February 8, 2020, after a skiing accident near Lead, SD.
His funeral service was held at 10:30 AM, Wednesday, February 12th at Bethesda Church, Huron. Burial will be in the Prairie Bible Church Cemetery, rural Carpenter.
Trenton Ethan Hofer was born October 10, 1995, to Todd and Melanie (Ellis) Hofer at Huron. He grew up on the family farm near Hitchcock. In September 2012, Trent was baptized through the Prairie Bible Church at Lake Byron. Trent became a member of Prairie Bible Church, rural Carpenter at that time. He attended school in Huron and Hitchcock and graduated from Hitchcock-Tulare High School in 2014. He continued his education at SDSU, graduating from there in 2018 with a degree in Ag-Business.
Trent's continued desires were to learn scripture and sharing the Gospel through evangelism and discipling others. Having this desire, he was mentored by Pastor Gavin Retzer of the First Baptist Church in Brookings where he also became a member. He was enjoying studying through the Timothy Pastoral Apprenticeship and was excited to be learning Hebrew and Greek. He also worked in construction and refereed lower levels of basketball along with playing on numerous intermural teams.
He loved the role as counselor at Byron Bible Camp near Huron directed by Jon Duba and continued that love by helping lead in Equip Campus Ministries under Luke Perkins at Brookings. His soul's desire was to be in ministry and to lead people to the Lord. He also helped with the family cattle and farming operation. Trent loved keeping track of his siblings and their activities and was always intentional about staying in touch.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Rev. Doyle Ellis who had a great impact on his spiritual life and shaped his call to ministry.
Grateful for having shared in his life are his parents, Todd and Melanie Hofer of Hitchcock; five siblings, Travis (Leah) Hofer and their son, Barrett, all of Hitchcock, Morgan Hofer of Warrenton, Missouri, Trevor Hofer of Hitchcock, Ty Hofer of Hitchcock and Madison Hofer of Hitchcock. He is also survived by paternal grandparents, Eldon E. and Alie Hofer of Hitchcock, maternal grandmother, Eva Ellis of Claremont, South Dakota; his aunts and uncles, Helene (Brad) Wedel of Yale, Shari (Mark) Steinheuser of Tulare, Kenneth (Jodi) Hofer of Hitchcock, JoEllen (Tom) Salmen of Tulare, Darinda (Lars) Tunby of Houghton, South Dakota, Laronda (Mark) Becker of Waterloo, Iowa and Lonnie Ellis of Houghton, South Dakota; his cousins, Andrea (Bret) Larson, Jessica (Derrick) Bulthuis, Sarah (Zach) Schweinsberg, Nathan (Anna) Wedel, Emily Wedel, Lance Steinheuser, Scott (Jaclyn) Steinheuser, Shaylyn (Clint) Stout, Brittani Hofer (Jose Tepexpa), Chelsea Hofer, McKenzie Hofer, Kolby Hofer, Jeremy Hofer, Elizabeth Salmen, Thomas John Salmen, Erik Salmen, Matthew Salmen, Neil Salmen, Chantel (Orrin) Hughes, Shawna (Ryan) Hagy, Krista (Moses) Geiger, Dawson Tunby, Sierra Tunby, Genae Becker and Daniel Becker; and his girlfriend, Katelyn Duba of Huron.
His memory will be cherished by all of them and the hundreds of extended family and friends he made along his brief journey of life.
Patsy Ann Liebert passed away February 5, 2020 in Idaho Falls, ID. She was 83 years old. Patsy was born on November 10, 1936 in Rexburg, ID to Stanley Liebert and Carrie Zeimer Liebert. She spent a happy childhood in Egin where she attended elementary school and then graduated from South Fremont High School. On June 14, 1988 she married LaVerl Singleton. She was a kind and patient care giver to her parents. She cared for her father the last seven years of his life. In 1988 she began to care for her mother and continued until her mother's death in 2001.
Patsy had an infectious smile, a kind personality that extended to many people as well as her beloved cats. She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband.
LaVerl thanks the staff at EIRMC for their care the last few days of Patsy's life.
April 2, 1935 - Jan. 15, 2020
Funeral services for Ruby Pearl Ochsner, 84, will be held at 2 p.m. on Jan. 21 at the First Wyoming United Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Matt Gordon officiating. Burial will follow in the Valley View Cemetery. Ruby entered the gates of heaven on Jan. 15, 2020 at Community Hospital in Torrington.
Memorials may be given to either the Goshen County 4-H Foundation or the Prairie Center Fire District.
Visitation will be Jan. 20 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements are by the Colyer Funeral Home and condolences may be sent to colyerfuneralhome.com.
Ruby was born April 21, 1935, to Louis Sr. and Pearl Arnold. She was raised in Hawk Springs, where she attended all 12 years of school. After graduation, Ruby attended nursing school in Denver and worked as a LPN for a year and a half.
Ruby became the loving bride of George Ochsner in 1955. They celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary on Dec. 3, 2019. Their union brought four children, Tena (Elden) Baldwin, Rodney (Deb) Ochsner, Dixie (Steve) Roth and Blake (Chrissy) Ochsner. All four children ranch in Torrington.
She was blessed with eight grandchildren, Jason (Shannon) Baldwin, Jeremy (Angela) Ochsner, Rustin (Britte) Roth, B.W. (Terra) Ochsner, Sarena (Cody) Assmann, Vanessa (Chris) Crisman, Erin (Jeff) Hinton and Katie Ochsner and fiancé (Devin Martin) and 11 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way.
Ruby was involved in Cattle Women, Church Circle, Wyoming Art Association, Burge Community 4-H, and many other agriculture-related events. Family was everything to Ruby and she was happiest when she was with them. She loved ranching, arrowhead hunting, checking cattle and working in her yard. Ruby will be remembered for her love of life and her kind heart. She will be missed greatly.
George left his earthly life January 3, 2020. He is survived by Elizabeth (Betty) Swan, his wife of 63 years, and their sons George Robert Swan, Jr, Steven McCahan Swan and Michael Scott Swan, eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
George was born October 23, 1931, in Washington, D.C. to Christopher MacDonald Swan and Jeanette Ure Swan. The family soon moved to Swarthmore, PA where George attended kindergarten and there met, and later married, his wife Betty. He attended Episcopal Academy the last three years of high school graduating in 1950 and then went on to graduate from Colgate University in upstate New York.
His love of sports kept him involved in all he could fit into his schedule, and he remained an avid sports fan throughout his life, attending and encouraging all his sons and following all their events through high school and college.
George's parents had moved east during depression years, so most of George's relatives were still "out west", where one of his uncle's owned and operated a large sheep and cattle ranch in Utah, which George grew to love. From high school on, he traveled every summer to work on the ranch. His love of the west continued to grow, and six months after he and Betty were married, they headed west once again with all their belongings loaded in an old moving van.
George's first job in Bear Lake, UT was as a ranch hand, and Betty worked as the local public health nurse. After one year, they moved to Promontory Point on the salt flats of Utah where George managed the Swan Brothers, his cousins' hay ranch. Two months after their arrival, their first son Rory (George Jr.) was born.
Two years later they moved to Manila, UT to manage the ranch of an aging Utah legislator. George also took on an additional position with Peter Kiewit, the contractor who was building the Flaming George Dam, which would eventually back up the Green River all the way to WY. Starting first as a carpenter foreman, George was soon put in the position of Assistant Powerhouse Supervisor. Meanwhile, Betty worked at the construction hospital until the birth of their second son, Steven. For the next two years with the funds they were able to save, they purchased cattle and grazing ground in the area. After five years in Manila, they were able to buy an 1880 homesteaded ranch north of Twin Bridges, MT where they wanted to live and raise their family.
Their third son, Michael, was born at the hospital in Sheridan, MT. Eventually all three sons graduated from Twin Bridges High School.
George became very involved in the community and the school as a creative problem solver and foresighted thinker with a strong will and body, and love of community. He enjoyed being able to contribute and tackle what he perceived to be the foremost issues of the time. As a member of the school board for almost two decades, he promoted the building of the football field, track, weight room, and a stage for the speech and drama department.
Another great joy was in conservation of land and water as he strove to maintain the beauty and productivity of the Ruby Valley. He was actively involved from the beginning with the Ruby Habitat Foundation, and with the Montana Fish & Game promoting soil and river conservation and stream access. As a leader of the Upper Ruby Stock Association for many years, he worked with the U.S. Forest Service on issues pertaining to grazing rights and permits, and other issues benefiting the forest and permittees.
The purchase of the First National Bank of Twin Bridges in 1982 with several other community members, to maintain its leadership locally, was as important to him as it was to those who joined in this endeavor.
After retirement, he and Betty moved to the Manhattan area to be closer to kids and grandkids.
He leaves this present life with a sense of gratitude to all who enriched his life on earth, and to God who gave him the opportunity and "tools" to be of help to others.
Services will be held at the Twin Bridges High School Gymnasium on Sunday, January 12, 2020, at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Park Haven Memory Center in Manhattan, Dry Creek Church in Belgrade, or Twin Bridges High School Foundation.
Ronald S. Severtson, age 90, of Sioux Falls formerly of Flandreau died Tuesday, December 10, 2019 at Luther Manor in Sioux Falls. Ron, longtime Moody County cattleman, was born May 31, 1929 to Stanley and Marie (Turmo) Severtson in Montrose, SD. He was baptized and confirmed in the St. Peter Lutheran Church of Orland, SD. Ron attended country schools and graduated from Montrose High School in 1946 and then attended SDSU. In November of 1950, he entered the US Army, where he served for 2 years during the Korean War. Ron married Gloria Johnson of Artesian in 1951. Following his honorable discharge, they started farming in the Montrose area and moved to Flandreau in 1955 onto what was then known as the Pettigrew Farm. The Pettigrew's had a long history of raising registered Herford Cattle. The genetics of those cattle dating back over 100 years is still present in the Severtson herd today. The farm now has a mixed breed of cattle and is run by Ron's grandsons, Beau and Bret. Consequently, this farm had been homesteaded and owned by four generations of Pettigrew's, and now the 4th generation of Severtson's is being raised on this farm. Later, Ron established what came to be known as Severtson Polled Herefords'. They exhibited their cattle at many Fairs and Cattle Shows across the Midwest and held annual sales of Polled Hereford breeding stock. Ron was a member of the SD Hereford Association and served on the Board of Directors for 12 years, including 2 years as President of the association. He was also a member and officer of Tristate Hereford Association. Ron served on many boards and committees, including the Flandreau City Council and 9 years as Director of Cenex Corporation of Flandreau. He was also a 4-H Club Leader for several years. Ron was a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Flandreau for 47 years. During that time, he held many offices, including that of Congregational President and Sunday School teacher for many years. Ron married Verrella Streyle-Murphy of Sioux Falls in 1988. They had 30 plus wonderful years together. In his later years he referred to Vee as his dear wife, friend, caregiver, executive secretary, chief cook and bottlewasher and chauffeur. He said that he would not have been able to survive without her help. In 2001 he retired from farming and moved to Sioux Falls. He joined and remains active as a member of 1st Presbyterian Church in Sioux Falls. He commented that he has always felt comfortable as Presbyterian but since he had been a lifelong Lutheran, in jest, he said that in Heaven he would check in as a Lutheran. He has served as a volunteer for the Furniture Mission, served as Deacon for 1st Presbyterian and delivered Meals on Wheels. He worked part time for the Sioux Falls Park and Recreation Maintenance Department for 9 years. Following that, he delivered auto parts for Sturdevants Auto Electric. He also drove school bus for a period of time. He enjoyed driving a 40 foot bus through Sioux Falls traffic, but not supervising 50 children at the same time. At 84 years of age he decided it was time to retire permanently. Ron and Vee attended hundreds of athletic and music events while following their grandchildren from grade school through college. Ron and Vee loved to travel. They have visited nearly all 50 states plus Canada and Mexico. They also have traveled extensively overseas while visiting several countries in 4 continents. Their computer and scrapbooks contain several thousands of photos taken during their trips. Ron has also continued a lifetime of reading from his own library collection over the years, as well as, from the huge selection available from Sioux-Land Libraries.
Grateful for having shared in his life are his wife, Verrella (Vee) of Sioux Falls; his children, Craig (Joan) Severtson of Flandreau, SD, Debra Imrie of Colorado Springs, CO, Lee Severtson of Brandon, SD; 6 grandchildren, Beau Severtson (Jen Bruning), Bret (Megan) Severtson, Luke (Heather) Imrie, Joel (Miranda) Imrie, Katharine Imrie, Haley Juarez-Cruz; 3 great-grandchildren, Beckett Severtson, Milo Imrie, Elliott Severtson; 2 step-sons, James (Cathy) Murphy, Michael Murphy; 2 step-grandchildren, Tiffany Murphy-Rodriquez, Nina Murphy-Devner; 2 step-great-grandchildren, Carlee Kay, Hunter Rodriquz; a brother, Robert Severtson; a sister, Marilyn McEntee along with several cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends. Ron is preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Duran Severtson; a brother and sister-in-law, Leonard (Nancy) Severtson and a brother-in-law, Bill McEntee. Memorials may be made to Helping Kids Round First, this is a non-profit Nicaragua organization that Craig Severtson (Ron's son) started.
Harlan Frank Rausch, 84, Tolstoy, SD died peacefully early morning December 28, 2019 at the Bowdle Hospital. He spent his last days surrounded by loved ones.
Harlan was born July 12, 1935 to William "Bill" and Alice (Meskel) Rausch in Hoven, SD, where he grew up and graduated from Hoven High School in 1953.
He went on to join the Army upon graduating high school.
After an honorable discharge, Harlan settled back home as a rancher, raising registered Hereford cattle for more than 73 years. In 1946 as a 4H member, Harlan owned one of the first females that started the Rausch Hereford Registered cow herd. He spent his life's work in the advancement of registered Hereford cattle and building the Rausch Hereford brand. Harlan was in his element mingling with cattle buyers, mixing a blend of his knowledge of the industry and humor that brightened people's days.
He married Mary Arlene Bertha on October 27, 1956 and they have been married ever since. Harlan and Mary were 'two peas in a pod'.
Harlan was a proud member of the Hoven Legion Post and St. Anthony parish. Harlan was especially involved with the American Legion, by volunteering, helping fund-raise and attending national Legion conferences.
Harlan is survived by Mary, his wife of 63 years; He was also extremely supportive and proud of his seven children; Burt, Dale, Kevin, Gwen, Dan and his wife Shelly, Jill and her husband Rob, and Beth and her husband Chris.
Another of Harlan's sources of joy were his twenty-three grandchildren, who also sought his affection. Harlan's grandkids always brightened his days! They are: Rosemary and Ben Rausch (Burt); Brandon and Dana Rausch (Dale); Bret, Mica, Trevor, and Bailey Rausch (Kevin); Melanie, Stacy and Becky Furhmann (Gwen); Danny, Dominic, Mark and Madeleine (Dan); Kiya, Riley, Caston, Jayden, Brooklyn, and Kennady Stack (Jill); Kaylor and Trey Cox (Beth).
Everyone that knew him was aware the Harlan could never pass up a ball game. Over the years, Harlan attended countless baseball games, wrestling meets, basketball games, and football games, watching his kids and grandkids participate. Also, the Minnesota Twins have lost one of their most loyal fans. Even Mary enjoyed watching the Twins play on television as the two advanced in life.
Harlan was very close to all of his siblings; Renee (Rausch) Ihle, Eleanor (Rausch) Schmidt, Darrel and his wife Ruby, Vern and his wife Sharon, Jerry and his wife Vicky, and Charlyn Nickolas and her husband John.
He was preceded in death by his parents William (Bill) P. Rausch and Alice (Meskel) Rausch. He was also preceded in death by his older brothers Eugene, Virgil, Duane and brother-in-laws Lu Ihle and Larry (Lefty) Schmidt.
After Alice's death Bill remarried Evelyn Garrity, bringing another 10 step brothers and sisters to Harlan's life as well.
Casketbearers will be Benjamin Rausch of Los Angeles, CA; Brandon Rausch of Sioux Falls; Bret Rausch of Sterling, CO; Daniel J. Rausch of Minneapolis, MN; Riley Stack of Alba, TX; and Trey Cox of Tucson, AZ.
The Rausch's prefer memorials. They should be made to the John J. Peter's Legion Post No. 159, PO Box 91, Hoven, SD 57450 in Harlan's name.
Services are in care of Lien Funeral Home, Bowdle.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 AM, Friday, January 3, 2020 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Hoven, SD, with Father Darin Schmidt, Celebrant. Interment, with military graveside rites by the John J. Peters American Legion Post No. 159, Hoven, SD, follows at the Church Cemetery. Organist will be Alice Simon; St. Anthony's Church Choir will sing "On Eagle's Wings", "How Great Thou Art", "The Old Rugged Cross", "Song of Farewell", "Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound", and "America the Beautiful";
and Sharon Rausch will sing "Ave Maria". Offertory gift bearers will be four of Harlan's children—Dale, Burton, Dan, and Jill. Lector will be Jerry Brickner and Mass Servers will be Connor Kaup and Jaxon Hartung. Eucharistic Ministers will be Tom Garrity and Jerry Brickner.
There will be a Wake Service at the Church 5:00 PM Thursday with visitation starting at 4:00 PM.
Eugene "Gene" L. Wiese
August 31, 1929 - November 14, 2019
Gene died Nov. 14, 2019 at Manning Regional Healthcare Center.
Eugene Lester, son of Lester and HelenWiese, was born August 31, 1929, in Carroll, Iowa. He grew up east of Manning and attended school in Manning where he participated in basketball and baseball and played the trombone, graduating in 1947. He then went on to attend Iowa State University where he attained a degree in Animal Science and excelled as a member of the livestock dairy and meat judging team.
On January 11, 1953, Gene was united in marriage with Jean Alice Warnke, with a honeymoon at the Denver Stock Show. Four children were born to this union. With the exception of a short time in Indianola, they made their home on the farm east of Manning. Gene and Jean were partners in Wiese and Sons Hereford Breeders. The couple enjoyed traveling together to numerous stock shows around the U.S. and in Europe and Australia. Jean and Gene opened their home and farm to, and enjoyed the company of, many foreign and domestic students and workers.
Gene was a true man of faith and an avid member of the First Presbyterian Church. He made a career out of his passion for agriculture and was a well-known environmental steward. While continuing to better his cattle operation, he ensured to provide the time and resources to support the industry in hopes of a better future for the next generation of cattlemen. He'd go on to serve as the president for the American Hereford, Iowa Cattlemen's, and Iowa Hereford Associations. He held rolls with the NCBA and Animal Trade Advisory Committee, supported various youth organizations such as 4-H and FFA, and judged numerous livestock shows on the local, state, and national level. Gene would be recognized with various awards and later inducted into the Iowa Hereford, Iowa Cattlemen's and American Hereford Hall of Fame.
On November 14, 2019, Gene passed away at Manning Regional Healthcare Center in Manning, Iowa. He was 90 years of age.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Jean Wiese; son Douglas Wiese; and brother Sam Wiese.
Gene is survived by three children: Helen Wiese of Manning; David Wiese and wife Diana of Manning; Kathryn Wiese of Waimea, Hawaii; four grandchildren: Chancelor, Shayne and Trey Wiese, all of Manning; and Kieran Wiese Gibson of Hawaii; sister-in-law Millicent Wiese of Manning; nieces: Barb, Mary and Nancy Wiese; and by other relatives and friends.
John Zilverberg, 106, of Highmore passed away Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at Prairie Heights in Aberdeen.
Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 5, 2019 at the Hyde County Auditorium, Highmore with Father Paul T. Josten officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Highmore. Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Monday, November 4, 2019 followed by a 7:00 p.m. prayer service, all at the Hyde County Auditorium, Highmore.
John Zilverberg was born August 2, 1913 to Jake and Lutske (Wiersma) Zilverberg, emigrant parents from the Netherlands. He was the second of five children. He moved with his family from Tyndall to Tripp, then Wessington Springs where he graduated from the eighth grade in a country school. In 1928 when the family moved to Hyde County, he then went to work on the ranch north of Holabird, SD. This work included breaking rank broncs that his father brought home to drive and ride.
During the Great Depression in 1934 the Zilverbergs had no crop, so John hitchhiked to Iowa and handpicked corn for three cents a bushel. But then the neighbor bought a combine, and he lost his job. One night while traveling he slept in a jail cell with three other guys. He thought, "Boy, if they knew I had $53 on me, I probably wouldn't have it in the morning, or I might not be alive. So, I didn't sleep very well."
As a young man he played baseball and ran a trap line until December of 1941 when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. He then enlisted in the U.S. Marines where he spent most of the next four years. He participated in the initial amphibious assault on Bougainville in November of 1943 under intense enemy fire. Later he contracted malaria and was then sent to a hospital in Hawaii. From the hospital in Hawaii he went to a hospital in Klamath Falls, Oregon. From there he got a thirty day furlough.
While on furlough back in South Dakota, he married Dorothy Boehmer. To this union four children were born. After the wedding they returned to Klamath Falls where Dorothy got a job teaching school, and John was assigned to a supply depot. After the war ended John got his discharge, and they returned to the ranch. John and his brother, David worked the ranch on shares for a couple of years. They then bought it from their parents and divided it up.
John bought his first registered Hereford heifers in 1940 which was the beginning of the Bar JZ Ranches. He hosted his first production sale in 1950. In 1970 when Limousin cattle were first introduced into the United States, he became one of the founding 100 members of the North American Limousin Foundation. In 1994 John was inducted into the American Polled Hereford Association Hall of Fame for his contribution to the breed. Bar JZ Ranches continues John's legacy in the beef cattle industry.
John was a director at the First State Bank of Highmore for a number of years until age 65. John was also a member of the school board and the township board of Valley Township. In 1965 John formed the Bar JZ bowling team that he bowled on until the bowling alley closed in 2012. In 2012 he was inducted into the South Dakota Bowling Hall of Fame. In 1985 he started participating in the South Dakota senior games and has many all time records in various sports in different age brackets. In 2005 he was honored for being the outstanding athlete over 80, and in 2010 John and his brother Dave were both inducted into the South Dakota State Senior Games Hall of Fame.
In 2000 John retired at 87 years old and went out of the cattle business. He sold the ranches to his sons and concentrated on gardening, golf, pool, cards and the Senior Center in Highmore. He wrote weekly editorials to the newspapers in eastern South Dakota. His age put up no barriers. 2007 John started going to the National Senior Games and won numerous gold, silver, and bronze medals throughout the United States over the next twelve years. He competed in his last Senior Games at age 105.
John was a lifelong learner and always put a high value on education. He has funded educational scholarships in Hyde County and at South Dakota State University. He established the John Zilverberg Family Community Fund as a perpetual endowment.
His wife, Dorothy passed away in December of 2008 after 63 years of marriage and John remained in their house until he was 104 years old. In December of 2017 he moved to Aberdeen and lived at Primrose Independent Living until he moved to Prairie Heights Healthcare.
John is survived by his children Marci (Mike) Wiedebush, Aberdeen; Donald (Peggy) Zilverberg, Holabird; Karen (Ray) Geditz, Ipswich; Gary (April) Zilverberg, Holabird; 13 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; a sister Janette (William) Kubat Patterson, Edmond, OK. He was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy, his parents, and three brothers, Mac, David, and James.
Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with John's arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the John Zilverberg Family Foundation, which supports organizations in the Highmore area. Contributions can be mailed to: John Zilverberg Family Foundation, PO Box 296, Pierre, SD 57501
William T. (Bill) Bennett of Connell, WA passed on to the great cattle ranch in the sky on Monday October 21, 2019 at the age of 91, he was one of the greatest cattlemen of all time. Bill was born November 28, 1927 at their family ranch outside of Winona, WA the first son of John W. and Marie (Gribbin) Bennett. Bill was very active on the ranch at a very early age along with his brothers; Jack, Doug and Don. Bill graduated from Winona High School in 1945. Bill went on to Washington State University for two years studying Animal Science before returning to the ranch.
Bill married his high school sweetheart Norma Jean Marsh on February 14, 1949. They have four children; Tom, Pam, Gayle and Joe.
Bill first started showing cattle at the Spokane Livestock Show at 9 years old. His first major show string was in 1948, they left Winona in a boxcar to the Pacific International in Portland, Oregon then on to the Cow Palace, then to Golden Spike in Ogden, Utah and they finished in Chicago. Bill, his bother Jack, and friend Don Jordan took 15 head with their nurse cows. They had Grand Champion Shorthorn heifer at every show. Their polled Shorthorn herd was started in 1925 by Bills father JW Bennett.
In 1957 Bill, Norma and their 4 kids sold their Shorthorn cows and moved to Washington State University where Bill was the Beef Cattle Herdsman.
They left WSU in 1963 to move to Connell and work for TT Herefords, owned and operated by Harold Thompson. Harold sold out to Bill and Norma in 1969 and Bill and Norma along with their children started BB Cattle Co.
He was on the Franklin County Planning Commission in the 80's and 90's.
Bill was an avid cattleman. He was involved in the American Hereford Association, the Oregon Washington Northern Idaho Hereford Association, the United Braford Breeders, the American Angus Association, Washington Cattlemen's Association, Franklin County Cattlemen's Association. Bill was a Director on the American Hereford Association Board from 1985 to 1991. Bill judged cattle in Canada, South America and in the United States including Hawaii. He has sold cattle in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, South America, Mexico, Canada and across the United States.
BB Cattle Co showed at the National Western from 1975 to 1996. He had Champion Carload in 1986 and 1996 and numerous reserves. They also had Champion Hereford bull in 1988. In 1988 he was honored by the Beef Improvement Federation as Seedstock Producer of the Year. In 2017 Bill was inducted into the Mid-Columbia Ag Hall of Fame with the Pioneer Award.
The whole family has shown under the BB brand which is an upside down T on the left shoulder. BB stands for Bill Bennett better beef. The upside down T was passed on to Bill by old time brand inspector Sandy Collins who told Bill to use it and never let it go. One of Bill's favorite past times was sitting at ring side watching his grandchildren and great grandchildren show cattle.
Bill is survived by his wife Norma; his children Tom (Peggy) Bennett, Pam (Don) Pierson, Gayle (Ken) Smith, Joe (Merrilie) Bennett; his brothers Doug (Gladys) Bennett, Don (Phyllis) Bennett and sister-in-law Donna Bennett; 12 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren and many other grandchildren because he was known as grandpa to so many. He was preceded in death by his parents J.W. and Marie Bennett and brother Jack Bennett.
Bill will be laid to rest in a graveside service for the family, with a Celebration of Life on November 2, 2019 beginning at noon at the Connell Community Center for everyone that wants to come remember this great man and his legacy.
To send flowers to the family of William Bennett, please visit Tribute Store
William H. Vroman, 93, of Buffalo, SD passed peacefully in his sleep Saturday, October 5, 2019 at Belle Estate in Belle Fourche, SD.
Bill's life celebration will be held Friday October 18th at 2pm at the Harding County High School in Buffalo and officiated by Pastor Henry Mohagen. Visitation will take place between 5 and 7pm Thursday October 17th at Leverington Funeral Home of the Northern Hills in Belle Fourche.
One cold, winter day, Bill rode over the buttes to have dinner with neighbors, Buzz and Esther Wammen. It was there that he met and fell in love with Esther's visiting younger sister, Verona Heck. The two married on November 7, 1947 at the Wesleyan church in Mitchell, SD and began their life together on the XX Ranch outside of Buffalo. Bill and his brother, CJ, continued ranching with their parents until 1952 when their father died and they purchased the ranch from their mother.
Larry Bill was Bill and Verona's first son, born May 12, 1949. Daughter, Linda Kay, was born January 21, 1951. Ross Gene was born September 15, 1952 with Cerebral Palsy. At age 2 Ross was moved to the Children's hospital in Redfield, SD where he lived until his passing at age 13 in March of 1966. Their youngest son, Mark James, was born September 1, 1956.
Bill and Verona spend the majority of their years on the ranch with their 3 kids raising beef cattle, ponies, and horses. In true cowboy fashion, Bill taught all the kids ranch work including how to break horses, to rope, and to ride. The kids spent a lot of time competing and placing in rodeos.
A love of flying allowed Bill the opportunity to fly the ranch's Super Cub to check cows and water on the XX and neighboring ranches daily. He also took longer trips from time to time. In 1960 Bill flew the family's Cesna 172 to San Antonio to visit his sister, Willo, stopping in Missouri to visit Verona's father on the way home. The family also traveled to Seattle for the World's Fair in 1962 and many other states for rodeos throughout the years.
Always active in his community, Bill served as a member of the Masonic Lodge, Harding County Weed Board, Stockgrowers Association and Harding County Commissioners. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the Beef industry and donated meat to the Labor Day BBQs in Buffalo along with many other community events.
Bill and Verona enjoyed taking trips with the Elite Club, travelling to Branson, Nashville, Alaska and Washington DC. Every winter, for 40 years, they drove to Arizona to visit their daughter, Linda and her family and other friends. They were gracious hosts for family reunions some summers, a living nativity scene in the barn every Christmas, and they never turned away a coffee guest.
In 2000, Bill and Verona moved into Buffalo as sons Mark and Larry took over the ranch. For Bill, retirement meant less time being a cowboy and more time being "Gramps." He loved watching his grandkids and great-grandkids grow up and they all agree he made the best pancakes you'd ever taste. His latest years were spent at Peaceful Prairie Estates in Buffalo, Judy's Assisted Living in Belle Fourche, and finally, Belle Estate in Belle Fourche.
As a thoughtful storyteller, Bill (Gramps) always had a tale to tell worth listening to. His stories of "the old days," hard work ethic, and his love for a juicy steak will surely live on through his family.
Bill is survived by his wife, Verona, of Belle Fourche, SD; daughter Linda (Bill) Otis of Buckeye, AZ; son, Mark (Jo) of St. Onge, SD; 7 grandchildren: Taylor Vroman, Ryan (Kelcee) Vroman, Seth (Jen) Otis, Trent (Kim) Otis, Nikki Vroman, Lisa (Chance) Kvistad, Lona (Jake) Downs; 9 great-grandchildren: Jace, Mollee, Tyson, Reese, James, Kayden, Mylee, Harlan, Alexa. He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Claudia Vroman of Buffalo.
Friends may leave written condolences and view a video tribute at: www.funeralhomeofthenorthernhills.com
Thomas Wayne DASHIELL (1919 - 2019)
DASHIELL, Thomas Wayne (Age 100) Thomas Wayne Dashiell, 100, was born to parents George and Annie Dashiell on June 23, 1919 at the family homestead/farm near Mt. Hope, WA. Tom passed away peacefully the morning of September 24, 2019 at Palouse Country Assisted Living in Fairfield, WA. He lived in the area on the same road his entire life. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers and sisters, and his wife Ardis. He met Ardis at a Grange dance and they married December 5, 1945. They celebrated 71 years together. Tom graduated from Rockford High School in 1937. He was actively engaged in the agriculture industry. He began his Hereford cattle herd in 1945, which grew over the next 53 years. He was always looking for cattle that had good temperaments and were a favorable consumer product. He was honored with an induction to the Hereford Association Hall of Fame in 2010. During his career in farming, Tom helped develop the area's bluegrass seed industry. He and some neighbors started the company, Seeds, Inc. in 1972 which continues today as a Dashiell Family business. Tom was always concerned about soil erosion and was Conservation Farmer of the Year in 1958. Tom and Ardis had three children, Elaine, Paul (Jane), and Ross. They gained eight grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. Spending time with their family was always a highlight for them. Tom was an active member of the Masonic Lodge for his entire adult life. He was a board member for the Mt. Hope Cemetery Association for many years. Tom is survived by his children and their families; his sister-in-law, Eunice Dick, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Special thanks to Palouse Country Assisted Living and to Home Instead for the extra care Tom received in his final three weeks. The family and close friends will meet at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 5th at the Mt. Hope Church for a service and burial. A Community Celebration of Life and BBQ will follow at the Fairfield Community Center at noon. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mt. Hope Cemetery Association, Palouse Country Assisted Living, Rockford Methodist Church, or the American Junior Hereford Association Scholarship Fund. CHENEY FUNERAL CHAPEL, CHENEY, WA
Wayne Allen Weishaar, age 76 of Lemmon, SD passed away after a 15 year battle with cancer on Thursday, August 22, 2019 at the West River Regional Medical Center in Hettinger, ND.
Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, August 25, 2019 at 2:00 pm at Calvary Lutheran Church in Lemmon. Pastor Charlotte Kvale and Chaplain David Peterson will officiate with burial to follow at Greenhill Cemetery in Lemmon.
Visitation with the family present will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at the Evanson Jensen Funeral Home in Lemmon.
Wayne was born in Elgin, ND, on August 12, 1943, to Arthur and Bernice (Thompson) Weishaar. He called the family farm in Adams County, ND, home his entire life. He attended elementary school in Beisigl Township and graduated in 1961 from Lemmon High School. During high school, Wayne was involved with FFA and served as South Dakota State FFA Vice President. His love of FFA continued throughout his life and was made an Honorary Member of several local chapters later in life. In 1989, Wayne and Gail received the Honorary State FFA Degree from the SD FFA Association.
He graduated from North Dakota State University in 1965 with a degree in Animal Husbandry. While at NDSU, Wayne met his future wife, Gail Johnson. They were married on September 1, 1965, in Beach, ND. After graduating from college, Wayne and Gail returned home to farm with his father. Wayne took over the operation of the farm at the age of 43 following the sudden passing of his father. He took great pride in the fact that both of his sons chose to farm/ranch alongside him as well.
Wayne served in the North Dakota National Guard for six years. In 1970, he was named the North Dakota Outstanding Guardsman. Later in life, Wayne enjoyed his membership in the Smith-Lyman American Legion Post #279 in Thunder Hawk, SD.
In the fall of 1974, Wayne attended Western College of Auctioneering. Wayne became partners with his uncle Reinhold Weishaar and his cousin, Verlyn Weishaar in Weishaar Auction Service. In time, Lyle Steinmetz also became a partner. Wayne auctioned at various sale barns in Hettinger, Lemmon, McLaughlin, Mobridge, Timber Lake and Bismarck. Shortly after getting his auctioneer license, Wayne became a licensed real estate agent as well.
Wayne and Gail were named the Boss Cowman Honorees in 2011 and the Adam's County NDSU Harvest Bowl Honorees in 2017.
Simply put, Wayne was a very sharp, kind, trustworthy and humble man. He believed in hard work and putting people first. Wayne was very generous with sharing his time and auctioneering skills to help support numerous community events and organizations.
For Wayne, the farm, real estate and auctioning were his passion. He always said, "I would rather wear out than rust out." When he wasn't working, he enjoyed going out for supper with his wife and friends and attending the activities of his grandchildren. Wayne liked hunting, fishing, and following his favorite teams: Bison, Jacks, Twins and Vikings.
Wayne is survived by Gail, his wife of 54 years, his sons, Shawn (Sarah) Weishaar, Lemmon, SD; and Scott (Heather) Weishaar, Sentinel Butte, ND; daughter, Sara (Adam) Kordovsky, Bowman, ND; 7 grandchildren, Aubrey, Madison, Lauren, Sam, and Alyson Weishaar, Luke and Levi Kordovsky; brother, Lynn (Connie) Weishaar, Reva, SD; brother-in-law, William (Ruth) Johnson, Bismarck, ND; and a niece and three nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Bernice (Thompson) Weishaar.
Memorials are preferred to your local FFA Chapter or the charity of your choice.
HERINGTON — Bill Granzow, 92, of Herington, passed away Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019. He was born May 3, 1927, in rural Latimer to Louis H. and Grace M. (Smalley) Granzow.
Survived by his wife, Delores Granzow, of the home in Herington; four sons, Steven Granzow (Melody) of Lincoln, Dennis Granzow (Lynette), of Mammoth Spring, Ark., and Thomas Granzow (Mary) and Rick Granzow (Amy), both of Herington; 12 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
Funeral services: 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, at St. Paul Lutheran Church of Herington, with Pastor Colleen Teeuwe officiating. Military committal will follow in Sunset Hill Cemetery, Herington. Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14, at Yazel-Megli-Zeiner Funeral Home of Herington.
Memorials: to the church or Hilltop Activity Fund, in care of Yazel-Megli-Zeiner Funeral Home-Herington Chapel, 404 S. Broadway, Herington, KS 67449-3038.
Gene Weldon Grabenstein of Eustis, Nebraska passed away Monday, July 22, 2019 at St. Luke's Assisted Living in Kearney at the age of 77.
He was born to Paul Grabenstein and Clara (Holbein) in Cozad, NE on May 13, 1942. He was baptized on July 5, 1942, and confirmed on March 26, 1956 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Eustis, NE and was a lifelong member. He served two terms on the Church Council in the late sixties.
He was married to Linda Witthuhn on August 1, 1971. To this union, two children were born: Terri and Todd.
Gene was passionate about Herefords, and was a committed volunteer for the Eustis community. He was a member of the Nebraska Hereford Association, and served as President. He hosted five Nebraska Hereford tour stops, and held 22 production sales at his ranch near Eustis, NE. In addition, he was a member of the Heart of Nebraska Hereford Association from the mid-sixties into the mid-seventies, and won several trophies over the years.
Gene was honored for his 50 years of service as a Eustis Fair Board member, and was a leader of the Rolling Meadows 4-H Club for 25 years. He organized several horse shows for the Frontier County area held in arenas near Farnam and Eustis.
Gene was preceded in death by grandparents: Dan and Minnie Grabenstein and Christian and Marie Holbein; parents Paul and Clara Grabenstein, and sister Phyllis Svoboda.
He is survived by children Terri (David) Bierbower of Lincoln and Todd (Tricia) Grabenstein of Smithfield; grandchildren Jillian and Joel Bierbower of Lincoln, Cooper and Cailey Grabenstein of Smithfield; siblings Lyle (Lonna) Grabenstein of Eustis, Janet (Don) Fleischmann of Cozad, brother-in-law Jon Svoboda of Elkhorn; and many other family and friends.
Online condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. Memorials are suggested to Eustis Fire and Rescue or Eustis Fair Board. Services will be Monday, July 29, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church in Eustis with Pastor Steve Berke officiating. Burial will follow at Eustis East Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church. Berryman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
July 25, 1924 - July 11, 2019
Joseph Deck Estermann, age 94 years, 11 months, and 16 days of Wellfleet, NE passed away July 11, 2019 at Linden Court.
Joe was born on July 25, 1924 in Somerset, NE to Joseph Jacob and Jessie Joy (Hughes) Estermann.
Joe attended Rose Valley school in Somerset, and high school at the Nebraska State Agriculture School in Curtis. Upon graduating he returned to the family ranch at Somerset. He met Marlene Gibson through the Nebraska Rural Youth program and the two were united in marriage on January 8, 1961 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in North Platte.
Joe raised purebred Hereford cattle which his father had started. He had continued to ranch up until recently when his health deteriorated. Joe was active in the Nebraska Hereford Association.
Traveling all over the world, especially following the family name was a passion of Joe's. Taking the children on summer camping trips in different states was something to always look forward to.
Survivors include his wife, Marlene of Wellfleet; children, Teresa Ann (fiancé David Hewitt) Estermann of Ocilla, Ga, Deborah Jeanette (Randy) Weitzenkamp of Nebraska City, NE, and Joseph Daniel Estermann of Wellfleet, NE; grandchildren, Cassandra Jeanette (Miguel) Farfan-Weitzenkamp, and Bryan (Miranda) Weitzenkamp; great-grandson, Alexander Farfan-Weitzenkamp; sister, Dolores Kosmicki of North Platte; and in-laws, Kenneth (Beverly) Gibson of Geneva, Connie (Kim) Stewart of North Platte, Deloris Grauerholz of Sutherland, and Rodney (Carol) Gibson of North Platte.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and infant grandson, Brett Mitchell Weitzenkamp; and two brothers-in-law, Herman Grauerholz, and Al Kosmicki.
Memorials are suggested to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.
Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 15, 2019 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church with the Reverend Bob Deardoff officiating. Burial will follow in the Morningview Cemetery near Wallace. Visitation will be noon – 6:00 p.m. Sunday at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.
Paul E. Allen, age 74 of Nebraska City passed away early Monday, May 20, 2019 at St. Elizabeth's Regional Medical Center in Lincoln, NE.
Paul was born on August 18, 1944 at Plattsmouth, NE; the son of Floyd Leslie and Grace Emma (Graham) Allen. He attended school in Nebraska City and graduated from the Nebraska City High School with the Class of 1962.
He entered the U.S. Army National Guard in 1964 and honorably served until his discharge in 1970.
On May 13, 1967, he was united in marriage to Linda Ann Gress at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Nebraska City and to this union four children were born: Matthew, Paula, Joni and James. Paul was a long-time farmer and purebred livestock producer; a job that he truly loved. Prior to his career in farming, he worked at the former Safeway Grocery Store in Nebr. City. He was a member of St. Benedict's Catholic Church, the Polled Hereford Association and a 4-H Leader for many years. He was always very proud of his family; they were his greatest love!
He is survived by his wife Linda of Nebr. City; three children: Paula Aldana and husband Jose, Joni Flewelling and husband Dennis and James Allen and wife Chrissy all of Nebr. City; 11 grandchildren: Ashlee Miller and husband Jason, Adam Aldana and fiance' Lauren Ball, Aaron Aldana, Andrew Aldana, Aidan Aldana, Michael Flewelling, Bryant Flewelling and wife Kassie, Matthew Flewelling, Nicholas Allen and fiance' Bergan Johnston, Kealii Allen and Jhett Allen; three great-grandchildren: Ryan and Elijah Miller and Addy Flewelling, numerous nieces, nephews, other family and many friends.
He was preceded in death by an infant son Matthew Allen in 1969, six brothers and sisters: Marie, Dorothy, Orlane, Betty, Fred and Cliff as well as his parents.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday (5/24) at 10:30 a.m. at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Nebraska City. Burial will follow at St. Benedict's Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Army National Guard Funeral Honors Detail.
Remembrances may be left at www.gudefuneralhomes.com.
Gude Mortuary in Nebraska City is in charge of arrangements.
Lois Berdina (Stillman) Helms, age 95, of Arapahoe, Nebraska passed away on Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at the C.A. Mues Good Samaritan Society in Arapahoe, Nebraska. She was born to Herman and Meta (Haussler) Stillman on March 27, 1924 in the newly built family home northwest of Arapahoe. She attended St. Matthews Lutheran Church, northwest of Arapahoe, where she was baptized April 1, 1924, completed eight years of education in the parochial school and confirmed on May 31, 1936.
Lois married Clarence Helms on February 16, 1944 at St. Matthews Church. After their marriage, she followed Clarence to Camp Pendleton, California before his deployment to Germany during World War II. After the war, they moved to the farm north of Holbrook, Nebraska, which they purchased, raised their four boys and lived on for 60 years. Lois and Clarence held their farm sale in September of 2005 and moved into Prairie Pines Independent Living Center in Arapahoe, NE. They then moved into the Good Samaritan Home in 2011.
Lois played the organ for over 50 combined years at St. Matthews and St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Cambridge, Nebraska. She also taught Sunday and Saturday School and was a faithful servant of the Lutheran Women's Missionary League. Lois supported her family in their farming and Polled Hereford business, was a longtime member of the Hereford Pollette Auxiliary. She also served many years with the VFW Auxiliary of Holbrook and the Holbrook Toastmaster's Club. Her hobbies were quilting and embroidering and she gave many of her handmade masterpieces to others, including a quilt to every grandchild upon their high school graduation. She was well known for her homemade pies, especially sour cream raisin and Angel Food cake. Lois enjoyed baking and tending her flowers. Her greatest joy were her grandchildren.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Meta (Haussler) Stillman; husband, Clarence; sisters, Adelia (Hollis) Clausen, Lillian (Henry) Helms, brother, Paul (Barbara) Stillman, and many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Survivors include sons Lanny and wife Martha of Arapahoe, Randy of Holbrook and fiancée Glenda Leithoff of Litchfield, Dick and wife Bonnie of Arapahoe and Bruce and wife Sue of Holbrook; nine grandchildren, Melanie (Rev. Ted) Olsen, Sarah (Titus) Staples, Cody (Casie) Helms, Sheree (Tom) Burford, Hannah Helms, Bryan (Shannon) Helms, Kyle (Kayla) Helms, Molly (Chris) Blickenstaff, and Cory (Katie) Helms. Her eighteen great-grandchildren are, Aimee, Ashlee and Abbee Olsen; Madilyn, Abraham, Samuel and Laura Staples; Hayden and Kylan Helms; Kaden Helms; Savannah Helms; Lillian and Abbigail Helms; Carter, Wyatt, Amelia and Beau Blickenstaff and Harrison Helms.
As a strong Christian wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, friend and witness to her faith, we know she has joined Clarence and her family in Heaven and waits for others to join her.
Visitation will be from Sunday, June 30, 2019 from 4 PM till 6 PM at Wenburg Funeral Chapel, 652 Main Street, Arapahoe, NE and prior to the service at the Church. Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 1, 2019 at 10 am at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1005 9th St, in Arapahoe with Rev. James Mosher, officiating. Burial will be in the Arapahoe Cemetery beside her husband Clarence of 70 years. Memorials are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church Youth Ministries. Wenburg Funeral Home of Arapahoe, Nebraska is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences and personal reflections may be left at wenburgfuneralhome.com
Raymond Leroy Colyer
1924 - 2019
Raymond Leroy Colyer, 94, of Bruneau passed away peacefully from natural causes on Monday, June 10, 2019 at a Boise care facility.
Ray was born September 15, 1924 to Troy Guy and Lois Emery Colyer in Castleford, Idaho. He was raised with four brothers and two sisters and attended school in Three Creek. After graduating from 8th grade, he went to work full time for his neighbors, the Hawes family. It was during his time in their employment while taking cattle to Bruneau for the winter that he met the love of his life, Bonnie Black. Ray was drafted into the Army on January 27, 1945 and was sent to Camp Roberts, CA for basic training. While home on furlough, Ray and Bonnie eloped to Elko, NV on June 25, 1945 to be married. With World War II raging on, Ray was soon sent to Japan. He was scheduled to be one of the first troops to land on the coast of Japan, but while in route, the atomic bomb was dropped so he was part of the occupational forces. He spent his 21st and 22nd birthdays in Japan, a period of 14 months. After his discharge from the Army, he and Bonnie returned to Three Creek and worked for the Hawes family at House Creek. Their daughter, Catherine Rae, was born in 1947. They survived the winter of 1948-49, one of the coldest on record, feeding cattle with a sleigh and team of horses. In August of 1949, they made a life changing decision to move to Bruneau to work for Bonnie's family on the ranch. They bought a small house in the town of Bruneau. Their son, James Guy, was born in 1950 and two years later they moved to the ranch where they resided the rest of their lives. He loved riding horses, herding cattle and staying at their "little red cabin" on Battle Creek. Through years of hard work and dedication, Colyer Cattle Company was created and became the foundation of the ranch that grew and evolved into what it is today. Ray's greatest pleasure was when he was braiding rawhide and he made sets of reins for his kids, grandkids and many others. A set of his reins was given away at the annual Colyer Bull Sale for many years.
Ray was a member of the Bruneau American Legion Post #83 for 76 years and past commander, was a member and served as president of the Owyhee Cattlemen's Association, member of the Owyhee County Fair Board and a proud sponsor of many cattlemen's sponsored steers at the Owyhee County Fair. He also belonged to the Idaho Cattle Association and Owyhee County Historical Society. He was inducted into the Idaho Cattlemen's Hall of Fame in 1988 and was honored to be the Grand Marshall of the Bruneau Rodeo.
The family would like to thank the staff of The Cottages of Mountain Home, Shaw Mountain of Cascadia and Horizon Hospice Care, especially Cara and Corinne for their loving care.
Ray is survived by his daughter, Catherine (Chet) Sellman, son, Guy (Sherry) Colyer, grandchildren, Carla Sellman-Carley, Crista Sellman-Jones (Destry), Chad Sellman (Kelly), Kyle Colyer (Bobby-Jean) and Katie Colyer and eight great grandchildren, Emma Carley, Grayson Carley, Piper Colyer, Cruz Colyer, Dashen Jones, Addison Sellman, Lola Jones, Wyatt Sellman. Also, his sister, Cindy Plott of Eugene, OR, sister-in-laws, Leah Colyer of Spring Creek, NV. and Pauline Colyer of Grand View and nieces and nephews. Ray was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Bonnie Black Colyer, brothers, Troy, Cliff, Walt and Marvin Colyer, sister Lola Blossom and grandson Robert John Sellman.
Memorials in his name may be made to Bruneau Legion Post #83 c/o Bill McBride, P.O. Box 582, Bruneau, Idaho 83604, Bruneau Quick Response Unit, P.O. Box 294, Bruneau, Idaho 83604, Bruneau Boosters, P. O. Box 604, Bruneau, Idaho 83604.
A funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at 10 a.m. at Bruneau Legion Hall in Bruneau, Idaho. Graveside services following at Bruneau Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Rost Funeral Home, McMurtrey Chapel, in Mtn Home.
Memorial services for Earl Delano 'Del' Wood, 86, of Cresbard, SD, will be 2:30 pm, Monday, May 13, 2019 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Pastor Rhia Strohm officiating. Del passed away peacefully Thursday, May 9, 2019 at Faulkton Area Medical Center.
Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.
Earl Delano (Del) Wood was born May 6, 1933 to Floyd R. and Alma (Batteen) Wood at the family farm 4 miles west of Chelsea, SD. He was baptized at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Chelsea and confirmed at Concordia Lutheran in Cresbard.
Del attended a one room country school for 7 years and then went to Cresbard and graduated in 1951. He attended SDSC for two years majoring in Ag, however, the Korean War broke out and his brother Vernon was drafted. Del came home to help run the farm.
In January 1955 Del enlisted in the US Army and served in the Veterinary Food Inspection Service for 34 months active duty-23 months in Japan. Back home!
Del got his herd of registered Polled Herefords back home-the herd was started as Woodcrest Farms in 1947 with one heifer as a 4-H project. 4-H was a big part of Del's life for many years beginning in 1943. Through the years he won many state and national awards including a trip to National 4-H camp in Washington, DC. After 12 years as a member, Del became a 4-H leader for about 15 years. He was inducted into the SD 4-H Hall of Fame in 2005.
Del married Ruth Ablin in 1963 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Aberdeen. Three children were born to this union – Wendy in 1966, Cindy in 1967 and Steven in 1970.
Del was active in local pursuits. He helped organize the Faulk County Conservation District and served on the first board of supervisors as President. He also served on church and township boards.
Del held lifetime memberships in the American Hereford and Polled Hereford Associations. Del was a member of SD Hereford Association for 60 plus years and received the Seedstock Producer of the Year award in 2014.
Del was proud of his children who graduated from SDSU with degrees in AG. All are currently engaged in production agriculture in North Central SD.
Del and Ruth traveled extensively for many years in North America and overseas-Japan, Australia, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Russia, Germany, England, France, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, and the Netherlands.
Del's wishes were to be cremated and his ashes be spread on the big Polled Hereford pasture where the Pasque flowers bloom each spring.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Vernon and two brother-in laws, Henry Ablin and Ralph Ablin.
He is survived by his wife, Ruth, 3 children, Wendy (Vaughn) Thorstenson, Cindy (Darwin) Aman, and Steven (Rene) Wood. Eleven grandchildren, Gina Thorstenson, Jana Thorstenson, and Kara Thorstenson, Kendra (Greg) Fred, Andrew Aman, Sam (Audra) Aman and Alex Aman, Zack Jessee, Hunter (Haley Daughters) Wood, Nick (Macy Olson) Wood and Seth Wood. One great-granddaughter, Hazel Wood. Brother in-law Ted (Joanne) Ablin, Sisters in law, Judy Ablin and Lois Ablin.
Kenneth A. McMillen age 80, of Sidney, NE passed away Sunday, June 2, 2019 in Loveland, CO.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, June 8th in the First United Methodist Church in Sidney with Pastor Corey Jenkins officiating. Services will conclude at the Church. Cremation has been held and Inurnment will be at a later date. Friends may stop at the Gehrig-Stitt Chapel on Friday from 1-7:00 P.M. to sign Ken's register book and leave condolences for the family. No family will be present. In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to The Nebraska Hereford Foundation Scholarship fund, Cheyenne County 4-H Council Scholarship fund or The First United Methodist Church in Sidney. The family would like to thank all friends and the area communities for their loving prayers and support. You may view Ken's Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and stories at www.gehrigstittchapel.com.
Gehrig-Stitt Chapel & Cremation Service, LLC is in charge of Ken's care and funeral arrangements.
Ken was born on September 13, 1938 in Sidney, NE to parents Arthur George and Edna Mable (Hammond) McMillen. He graduated from Sidney High School and attended The University of Nebraska. Through the years he was employed with Wheatbelt Public Power, The Egging Company and managed The Far More Coop for twenty-seven years. At retirement Ken had more time to enjoy raising Registered Hereford Cattle on the 7 MillIron Ranch.
Ken was very invested and actively involved in the community. He was elected to two terms as a Cheyenne County Commissioner. He enjoyed time spent with family, friends and colleagues. He will be remembered as a caring, compassionate and loving person.
Ken is survived by his wife Nan L. (Wiggins) McMillen of the 7 MillIron Ranch, in Sidney, mother of Ty Justin Mull and granddaughter Kendall Mull of La Quinta, CA, Ken's (3) children; Burl McMillen and wife Dana of Craig, CO, Doug McMillen and wife Cynthia of Gering, NE, and Katy James of Bellingham, WA; Nancy McDonald and husband Jim of Loveland, CO, mother of Burl, Doug and Katy; brother Paul McMillen and wife Carolyn; sister June Katen, sister-in-law Dorothy McMillen all of Sidney, NE; (8) grandchildren and (14) great-grandchildren along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents Arthur George and Edna Mabel (Hammond) McMillen; brother Ron McMillen, brother-in-law Dale Katen, cousin Russ McMillen and son-in-law Jerry James.
Jack Delmer Beeson was born March 17, 1929 on a farm near Hunter, Oklahoma the son of Dell and Olive (Neff) Beeson. He attended country school four years then Hunter grade school for four years, then transferred to Garber, Oklahoma High School. Reason for transfer was his interest in Agriculture and FFA. Jack showed steers at Oklahoma City and Kansas City and was President of what was considered the strongest FFA in the county at the time.
After graduation he worked for Honey Creek Ranch in Oklahoma and Riffel Polled Herefords in Kansas. Then he poured concrete at cement elevators for a while, but he liked cattle raising better.
On July 12, 1950 he became Herdsman for Hervale Farms. Jack served 2 years in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. He came right back to Hervale Farms where he showed cattle in over 20 states and Canada. Early we used boxcars on railroad then semi trucks and later gooseneck trailers. We had the National Champs Female in 1965. Made several herd bulls Gold Trophy Bulls by point system.
In 1954, Jack met Beverly Ann Lunstra (Bev) of Beaver Creek, Minnesota. It was love at first sight for Jack, but it took him three years to convince Bev. On June 19, 1957 they got married in Beaver Creek, Minnesota. In this union one son Jock was born. He traveled with his parents from a young age until he went to college.
Jack was very proud of the accomplishments he and Bev received showing and selling Bulls and also in the friendships they had developed across the county and especially with Nebraska and Midwest cattle people. Jack and Bev showed cattle in more than 50 Nebraska State Fairs. He was a board member of Wayne County and Nebraska Farm Bureau and believed Strongly in their programs. Jack served as Beef Superintendent for 4-H breeding beef at the County Fairs for many years, and more than 20 Nebraska Cattleman Classic shows and sales.
He loved his family more than cattle, but was always so happy when Jock, and Bev would receive particular awards for their achievements in livestock activities.
Jack was first a Deacon and then an Elder for the First Presbyterian Church in Wayne; he also served on many committees which he thought were very important.
He is survived his wife Beverly, son Jock (Brenda) Beeson, one sister, Marilyn (Butch) Hale of Dallas, Texas, numerous brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws, nieces and nephews.
Jack is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ron and his wife Sue Beeson.
Family requests no flowers.
Robert Fawcett, 84, of Ree Heights, SD, passed away Friday, May 24, 2019 at his home.
Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 31, 2019 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Miller with Rev. Brian Jones officiating. Burial will be at Morningside Cemetery, Ree Heights. Visitation will begin at 5:00 p.m., Thursday, May 30, 2019 with a 7:00 p.m. prayer service, all at the church.
Reck Funeral Home of Miller has been entrusted with Robert's arrangements.
Vernon L. Wilson of Ennis, MT, passed away at the Madison Valley Medical Center in Ennis on May 18, 2019.
A celebration of life will take place at a later date.
Funeral service for Robert L. Dillinger will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 16, 2019 at the First Presbyterian Church in Gillette, WY with Pastor Clint Pickrel officiating with burial to follow in Mt. Pisgah Cemetery. A luncheon to follow at Ruff's Bar in Rozet, WY. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at Walker Funeral Home.
Robert Lee Dillinger, age 87 passed away on May 11, 2019 at Close to Home Hospice in Gillette, Wyoming of natural causes. Robert Lee Dillinger was born on May 19, 1931 to Jacob and Della (Coffee) Dillinger in Dillinger, WY. Bob did his many chores at his parents homestead and worked the horses with his brothers. As a young man he worked for the Gillette Sale Barn for numerous years. Bob attended Gillette Schools and graduated from high school in 1949 and went to full-time ranching with his mother, Della. They had a ranch full of Hereford cattle and later started to raise Quarter horses. In 1960 Bob married Claralee Fox and they continued to ranch on the home place which they purchased from Della. They had two daughters, Phoebe and Carrie.
Both Bob and Claralee have been active members of Farm Bureau in Campbell County. Bob served as president of the Campbell County Farm Bureau several times. Through the years of marriage, Bob and Claralee have shared their love for the horses they raise and the cattle they have had. The in 1953 Bob took over the weather observation with National Weather Service; continuing on until he was no longer able to, but it continues on with the family.
Bob is survived by his wife, Claralee; two daughters, Phoebe (David) Anderson; Carrie (Tim) Allison, one granddaughter, Fillie (Anthony) Gibson; three great-grandchildren, Ceinya, Kadynce and Adam, several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Earl, Jay and Bill, two sisters, Margaret and Inez and step-father, Bob Bratton.
Memorials and condolences may be sent in Bob's name to Walker Funeral Home 410 Medical Arts Ct Gillette, WY 82716. Condolences may also be expressed at www.walkerfuneralgillette.com
Logan Silha, 68, of Bowman, ND, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at his home in Bowman.
Logan Neil Silha was born Feb. 22, 1951 in Dickinson, North Dakota to Russ and Fran Silha. He resided on the Lazy JS Ranch near Bowman, North Dakota where he died unexpectedly March 9, 2019.
Logan attended Bowman Schools and graduated in 1969. He then attended North Dakota State University where he majored in Animal Science and was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity, Saddle and Sirloin Club, Alpha Zeta, the Livestock and Wool Judging Teams, and Rodeo Club. Later, he became a member of the ND Stockmen's Association, American Quarter Horse Association, American Hereford Association, St. Charles Catholic Church, and was clerk of Grainbelt Township for 30+ years.
On August 21, 1976, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Diana Busko. To this union, they brought four children: Denver, Tressa, and twins, Megan and Nevada. Logan loved his children and taught them the true meaning of being kind, decent and hardworking. Along with his children, 11 grandchildren arrived and they were the highlight of his life. He enjoyed playing and teasing them, attending their games and was one of their biggest fans.
Logan loved his Polled Hereford cattle and Quarter Horses and visiting with people about them. His favorite times of the year were calving and foaling and the annual horse sale. He took great pleasure in going to grain mares every morning, salting cows, and just watching and taking in God's beauty.
He loved watching his NDSU Bison play football, and loved watching almost all sports, especially football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. He enjoyed oil painting and sketching, always trying to improve on his self taught skills. He spent most winter nights working on his masterpieces. Logan loved to read and devoured everything, especially a great suspense novel or anything regarding history. He loved watching Fox News and enjoyed discussing politics. Most of all, he loved to dance with Diana.
He will be remembered for always taking the time to visit with anyone he saw, whether at bull sales, church, sporting events, or even at the gas pump.
Logan is preceded in death by his parents, Russ and Fran. He is survived by his wife, Diana; children Denver (Roxie) Silha, Bismarck, ND; Tressa (Jason) Dodge, Bowman, ND; Megan (Brad) Hlebechuk, Bowman, ND; Nevada (Jessie) Silha, Bismarck, ND; 11 grandchildren-Camden, Janiya, Breier, and Bronson Silha; Cheyenne and Suttyn Dodge; Emersyn, Hadyn, and Annistyn Hlebechuk; McKenzie and Dylan Silha; brother Randy (Cheryl) Silha, Mindoro, WI; Roxie (Eddie) Holecek, Rhame, ND; Nada (Dale) Carter, Starbuck, MN; Myrna (Alex) Friedt, Carrington, ND; along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Belt, MT - Little Belt native and Belt area resident, Jerry Gliko, 75, passed away quietly at Peace Hospice House in Great Falls, February 10, 2019 from complications of Emphysema and COPD.
A vigil will be held at St. Mark's Catholic Church in Belt on Thursday, February 14, 2019 at 7:00 pm. Funeral liturgy will take place at St. Mark's in Belt on Friday, February 15, 2019 at 11:00 am. Cremation has taken place under the direction of O'Connor Funeral Home and internment of the ashes will take place at a later date.
Born in Great Falls, Montana on June 10, 1943 to Rudy Gliko and Edna Lee Gliko, Jerry began life on the ranch in Little Belt. His life came full circle back to the ranch as he and his brother Gary have spent the last several years working together on the place. Doing what else, but picking rocks, spraying weeds and fixing fence.
Just shy of his third birthday, Jerry suffered the untimely loss of his father Rudy. Gary joined the family three months later and Edna moved everyone to Great Falls for a short period of time. They soon returned to the ranch. Aided by faith and trust in God with help from family and neighbors, they moved forward. In 1951 Edna married Tony Urick. Three sisters and a brother were added to the family. All the kids looked to Jerry as a big brother and friend.
Jerry attended one-room country schools around the ranch through grade eight and then graduated from Belt Valley High School. In 1961 he headed off to Montana State College in Bozeman to study Animal Science. After numerous interruptions, a college degree was obtained in the spring of 1969. He was then hired by the American Hereford Association as a Field Man. He then worked for the Association for several years based out of Kansas City, MO, living in various states and then went into ranch management. Eventually he found a spot with the Western Livestock Journal, where he was actively engaged for several decades. Livestock insurance added another industry dimension to his numerous capabilities. In addition, he produced the annual Stock Growers Association Directory. Agriculture and the cattle industry were his life-long occupations. His eternal optimism and gift of gab suited him well over the years.
While working in Ohio, the delightful manager of Jerry's apartment building caught his eye. Elaine Adams, raised in New Jersey and living in Ohio, brought a special dimension to Jerry's life. They were married in Kansas City, MO in December of 1973 and before long moved to Billings, where sons Josh and Aron completed their family. While there, Jerry, enjoyed many family activities that centered around fishing and boating and spending time with his wife and sons. In 2008 Jerry and Elaine moved to their present residence north of Belt.
In recent years Jerry has found strength through his church and the Knights of Columbus activities. Not to mention, those special visits with relatives, family and old friends.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 45 years, Elaine of the family home; son Josh of Bozeman and San Diego, CA; son Aron of Bozeman; brothers Gary Gliko of Great Falls, Rick (Barb) Urick of Waxhaw, NC; sisters Debbie (Russ) Sorensen of Butte, Virginia (Bruce) Sorensen of Belgrade, and Becky Murray of Belgrade; sister -in-laws Jane of Pickerington, OH and Lin of Princeton, NJ; brother-in-law Joe Adams of Lancaster, OH; and fourteen nieces and nephews and their families.
Preceding Jerry in death were his parents, Rudy Gliko and Edna Gliko Urick; parents-in-law Joe and Ruth Adams, and nephew Drew Murray.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Belt Volunteer Ambulance, St. Mark's Knights of Columbus and Peace Hospice.
The family would to like extend their sincere thanks to all of those who have extended such loving care of Jerry.
Condolences for the family may be left at www.OConnorFuneralHome.com.
Neil E. Priefert passed away at the Fairview Manor in Fairmont, Nebraska on January 27, 2019 at the age of 89 years, 9 months and 3 days. He was born on the South Place, west of Fairmont, Nebraska on April 24, 1929 to Elmer G. and Margaret E. (Boren) Priefert. He attended two different country schools near the farm and graduated from Fairmont High School in 1947. Neil met Jean Bernasek at "Ye Old Corral" roller skating rink in Geneva and they were married September 5, 1954 at Geneva's United Brethern Church. Neil and Jean were married for 63 years. Four daughters; Mary, Carol, Linda and Susan, made this family complete.
Neil made his decision to farm and care for the land when his dad offered college funds or a tractor to Neil and his two sisters. His sisters went to college and Neil chose the tractor.
Neil served in the National Guard with his unit being called into active stateside duty in 1955 at Ft. Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was then stationed at Ft. Riley in Junction City, Kansas. In the 1960's it was guard buddies and their families that would come spend the weekend at the farm for 'personal guided pheasant hunts.
The registered Polled Hereford herd began with animals purchased on a farm sale. At the time, the number of cows were dependent upon what would fit on the 40 acres of pasture on the home place. Of course, the pasture first had to provide for the 4 milk cows that were standard farm features in the 50's.
As with many young farm families, gifts are farm oriented. The young couple received a monetary gift from her parents for a clothes washer. Instead of a washer, this couple bought a cow. The year was 1957.
Social activities in West Blue Township in those days consisted of neighborhood card parties with plenty of snacks, conversation and laughter. The girls learned to dance on Neil's shoes at the Milligan Auditorium to the tunes played by Leonard Becwar's band.
Sunday dinner guests weren't relatives, they were the field men for the Polled Hereford World. Family vacation destinations were not theme parks or the beach, it was wherever the tour was that year in Nebraska or Kansas. Women and kids in one vehicle, dads in another. (Looking back upon that arrangement, it was only Neil that got a vacation.) When the fences needed painting and the yard needed to be spruced up, there would be no vacation, it was time to host a tour stop. Neil and his family made many enduring friendships through these networks, with the family circle extending to include the Kansas cousins.
Neil served as an assistant 4-H leader when the girls were active in "Keep 'Em Growing" 4-H club, and he actively supported his daughters as they traveled with the judging teams, showing 4-H calves at area events and Junior Nationals around the country. He served on the Fairmont Co-op Board, Fillmore County Noxious Weed Board for 30 years, and the Nebraska Polled Hereford Association, serving as a Director and Vice-President on the board for many years. He was a member of the Nebraska Hereford Association and Exeter Feeders and Breeders Association, serving on its board as well. He was a member of the Fairmont Community Church, making certain the girls got to Sunday School and sang in Nancy Jo's children's choir when it was known as Grace Methodist Church. He was also a member of the Fairmont American Legion.
Neil was preceded in death by his parents; sister Vivienne Loge; and brother-in-law Robert D. Baker.
He is survived by his wife, Jean of Fairmont, daughters Mary (Dana) Scott of York, Carol (David) Priefert Wentworth of Chicago, Illinois, Linda (Kirby) Zuerlein of Fairmont, Susan (Brandon) Priefert Voss of Sisters, Oregon; grandchildren Zac (Amanda) Scott of York, Nick (Kelsey) Scott of Norfolk, Ryan (Sarah Stearns) Scott of York, Adam (Anna) Scott of Lincoln, Curt (Sydney) Scott of Gretna, Lindsay Carroll of Lincoln, Danielle (Dakota) Cooper of York, and Leslie Carroll of Fairmont; great- grandchildren, Hudson and Wyatt Scott, Dominic, Derrick & Dusty Cooper, Ethan Dodson, and Jane Scott; sister Wilma Baker of Norfolk; and nieces, nephew and friends.
A Funeral Service for Neil was held on Friday, February 1, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. at the Fairmont Community Church in Fairmont, Nebraska. Pastor Pat Norris officiated the service. Gwenda Mau accompanied the congregation in the singing of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" and "It is Well With My Soul." The recorded selection "Can I Have This Dance" was played as the recessional.
Pallbearers for the service included Zach Scott, Nick Scott, Ryan Scott, Adam Scott, Curtis Scott, and Rich Baker. Interment was held in the Fairmont Public Cemetery following the Funeral Service and the Fairmont American Legion Post 21 provided Military Honors.
Farmer & Son Funeral Home was in care of the arrangements and online condolences can be left at www.farmerandsonfuneralhome.com
Memorials are suggested to the Fairmont Community Church or the Nebraska Junior Hereford Association.
Bonnie Catherine (Black) Colyer, 92, of Bruneau, passed away peacefully from natural causes on February 1, 2019. She was at home and surrounded by her loving family. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, February 10, at 2:00 pm at the American Legion Hall in Bruneau, with graveside services following at the Bruneau Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Rost Funeral Home, McMurtrey Chapel.
Bonnie Black was born on February 19, 1926 in Mountain Home, to Errol & Anna Black. Bonnie was the great granddaughter of early Bruneau pioneers, who settled in the valley in 1876. She grew up on the family ranch in Bruneau with her brothers, John & Jim Black. She graduated in 1944 from Bruneau High School. After graduation, she worked at the Jones Store in Bruneau and soon after, a handsome young cowboy from Three Creek named Ray Colyer stole her heart. Much to her father's chagrin, she eloped with Ray to Elko, Nevada as they desperately wanted to get married before Ray was shipped to Japan during WWII. The spontaneous trip was full of complications, such as their car breaking down and their hotel burning to the ground, but through persistence, Bonnie & Ray were married on June 25, 1945. After the war ended, Ray returned home the end of 1946. During that time, they lived at House Creek, near Three Creek, while Ray was working for the Hawes family. In September of 1947, their daughter, Catherine Rae was born. In 1949, they moved back to Bruneau and began ranching with Bonnie's family. They added a son, James Guy, in 1950. Through years of hard work and dedication, Colyer Cattle Company was created and became the foundation of the ranch that grew and evolved into what it is today. She looked forward each year to visiting with everyone at their annual bull & heifer sales. Bonnie remained on the ranch in Bruneau for her entire life.
Bonnie was a member of the Rebekah Lodge, a lifetime member of the Bruneau Legion Auxiliary, serving as secretary for many years. She was chairman of the Bruneau-Grand View School District Board during the time the elementary schools were built. She also served as secretary of the Bruneau Buckaroo Ditch Company for many years. In 2013, Bonnie was honored to be the Grand Marshall of the Bruneau Rodeo. At the age of 90, Bonnie received her Concealed Weapons Permit.
In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing satin pillowcases and cowboy scarves for family and friends. She was a talented seamstress and had made everything from prom dresses to leather chaps. One of Bonnie's favorite pastimes was gambling, and she was always up for a trip to Jackpot, Elko, or Reno. Most often, she returned home "a winner".
One of Bonnie's greatest accomplishments was writing her autobiography titled "Shoo-Fly & Alkali", which was published in 2013. She had kept a journal for over seventy years, so she had plenty of information to draw from. Over the last five years, Bonnie enjoyed doing book signings, and had personally signed over a thousand books.
Bonnie is survived by her husband, Raymond Colyer, her daughter Catherine Sellman (Chet), her son, Guy Colyer (Sherry), five grandchildren- Carla Sellman Carley, Crista Sellman-Jones (Destry), Chad Sellman (Kelly), Kyle Colyer (Bobby-Jean), Katie Colyer, and seven great-grandchildren- Emma Carley, Grayson Carley, Piper Colyer, Cruz Colyer, Dashen Jones, Addison Sellman, & Lola Jones, and nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was expecting her 8th great-grandchild in early May. She was preceded in death by her two brothers, John & Jim Black and her grandson, Robert John Sellman.
Donations may be made to one of the following: Bruneau American Legion or Auxiliary, PO Box 582, Bruneau, ID 83604, Bruneau Boosters, PO Box 604, Bruneau, ID 83604, or Bruneau Quick Response, PO Box 294, Bruneau, ID 83604.
WISE RIVER – Donald Harvey Jones, 86, of Wise River passed away New Year's Eve, December 31, 2018 at St. Patrick Hospital. He was born March 22, 1932, in Butte, MT to Robert (Leslie) and Louise Jones.
He lived his entire life on the family ranch in Wise River. He attended grade school in Wise River, riding his horse to and from school every day and attended Beaverhead County High School in Dillon. He was drafted into the Army in 1953 and was based in Alaska. After his time in the army he returned home to the family ranch in 1955. He married Elizabeth Pilling, June 5, 1960 and for over 58 years they ranched side by side, raised their family and were involved in several organizations within their community and Beaverhead County. Donald became a director on the Vigilante Electric Co-op board in 1961 and was an advocate of rural electrifications for 53 years when he retired from the board in 2015. He also served on the state board of Rural Electric Cooperatives, Western G&T and Northwinds Publishing. He served on the school board in Wise River for several years, was a superintendent for the Beaverhead County Fair in sheep and hogs and was instrumental in getting a new fire hall in Wise River by donating the land and helped to get the building off the ground. Don was a member of the Elks in Dillon since 1962 and enjoyed the many membership benefits of being an Elk. He also belonged to the Masonic Lodge of Wisdom, was a member of Stockgrowers and the Montana Woolgrowers. In his early years he owned a small plane and often would be found flying in the fall looking for lost cattle on the forest permits.
Don was a third generation rancher following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather who came here in 1910. Hereford Cattle and Sheep were always a part of the ranch and Don raised many fine registered and commercial Hereford cattle over the years. In 2002 he was named commercial man of the year by the Montana Hereford Association. Don was a true steward of the land and worked and managed his ranch tirelessly. In 2010 he and Liz celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary along with celebrating 100 years of the ranch being in the Jones family. Donald took a lot of pride in those two accomplishments. Donald loved to travel and spent a lot of time traveling with Liz and their special friends Jay and Jean Nelson. He also was an avid reader and in his later years he always had a book in hand.
He is survived by his wife Elizabeth Jones, his children, Keith Jones (Wendy) and children Nora and Nathan, Yvonne Jones, and Jodi Pauley with her children Dalton and Jesse. He is also survived by his two sisters Retha (Loren) Sigman and Lynn (John) Mugaas along with several nephews, nieces and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Louise Jones and his son Karl Jones.
Cremation has taken place and per Don's request no funeral services but a family celebration of life will take place in the summer of 2019. A special thank you from the family for all his care at Barrett Hospital, St. Patrick Hospital and Dr. Loge.
Memorials can be made to the Wise River Volunteer Fire Company, Beaverhead County 4-H Foundation, Friends of the Beaverhead County Fair, Barrett Hospital Foundation or donor's choice.
Phil Allen, 94, of Antimony, UT, passed away peacefully Dec. 7, 2018. He was born, May 22, 1924 in Escalante, UT, the youngest of three sons of George Ashley Allen and Matilda (Tillie) Riddle Allen.
Phil grew up in Escalante. He learned to work hard, helping his dad on their ranch. His father passed away when Phil was 16. Being the only one left at home, the responsibility of running the ranch fell to him. Phil's mother later sold the ranch and the day after his graduation from Escalante High School in 1942, they moved to Salt Lake City.
On his 18th birthday, Phil went to work for Remington Arms making ammunition for World War II. Six months later, he was transferred to the state of Washington, where he continued to work on a project for the war. He found out later that he had been making the components for the atomic bomb. Following Washington, he was again transferred and worked in Kentucky and Indiana.
But Phil had ranching in his blood and in April of 1946, he returned to Utah and moved to Antimony with only $50 in his pocket and a suitcase of clothes.
In Antimony, Phil met his sweetheart, Billie Gleave. They were married June 1, 1948 in Salt Lake City. The marriage was solemnized Dec. 16, 1948 in the Manti Latter Day Saints (LDS) Temple. They began their married life in Antimony where they raised four children. They bought a general store where they sold everything from tires and saddles to clothing and food.
Also, in 1948, they bought their first registered Polled Herefords. In 1969, Phil bought Herb Gleave's ranch and expanded his small herd to become one of the largest and oldest Polled Hereford ranches in the West. Good business practices, integrity, and a keen eye for quality cattle has enabled Phil Allen and Son Polled Herefords to sell breeding stock throughout the western United States and into Canada and Mexico.
Phil was one of the founding members of the Utah Polled Hereford Association and served as a longtime president. He was one of the original founders of the Utah Beef Improvement Association (UBIA) and was the first president. He was a former recipient of the Utah Seedstock Producer of the Year. Because of his success and reputation, Phil received the Legacy Award from the Utah Cattlemen's Association and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the UBIA.
He has also been recognized by the Nevada Cattlemen's Association for his contribution to the livestock industry in Nevada and for being the longest, continuous consignor at the Fallon All-Breeds Bull Sale. He has judged numerous cattle shows and fairs throughout the West, including the National Western Stock Show in Denver several times. He served on the State BLM Advisory Board and on numerous grazing and irrigation company boards.
Phil was civic-minded and served as Antimony Town Board Member and as Mayor for a combined total of 22 years. He also served as a member of the Garfield District School Board. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He fulfilled several callings, including Antimony Ward Bishop, Panguitch Utah Stake High Council, and Scoutmaster.
Phil loved his family and said that everything he did was for his family. He loved having family around. He loved hunting, the mountains, John's Valley, and Dutch oven cooking. His Dutch oven potatoes were the best.
Phil was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and siblings, Weldo (Jean) Allen and Eldon (Juanita) Allen.
He is survived by his children, JoAnn (Steve) Peters, Bradley (Bobbe) Allen, Shannon (Julie) Allen, and Tracie (Scott) Peterson; 15 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and a few on the way.
Funeral services were held Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018. Burial followed in the Antimony Cemetery.
KAREN GIBSON, 75 of Sutherland, formerly of Wallace, passed away Saturday, December 8, 2018, at the Sutherland Care Center.
Karen was born March 21, 1943, in Omaha, NE and was adopted by Ben and Mamie (Lashley) Merrill in 1949, they lived in Hayes Center.
In 1954 the family moved to Mt Grove, Missouri. After a few years and a drought, they moved to Grainton, NE.
Karen attended Wallace high school and graduated in 1961 and went on to College at Kearney State. Later, she taught at a country school near her home north of Wallace.
On February 3, 1963, Karen married her high school sweetheart Larry Gibson and raised three children. They lived on a ranch south of Wallace. Karen worked for the Wallace Grain Elevator and helped her husband on their Hereford Ranch. Karen enjoyed painting, sewing, and growing flowers. She was a member of Christian Women's Club, Nebraska Hereford Auxillary, and Pinochle Club. She was active in her church and played organ/piano for many years at Faith Lutheran Church in Wallace.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Mamie Merrill; three brothers, Jerry Merrill, Ronnie Wickwire, Arthur Wickwire; and one sister, Sandy Otto.
Karen is survived by her husband, Larry; daughter, Tammy (Mike) Hollibaugh of Oberlin KS; two sons, Jerry (Linda) Gibson of North Platte and Brian Gibson of Grand Island; sister, Deb (Rick) Zastera; and three brothers, Larry (Cindy) Kelly, Gayle (Marilyn) Kelly, and Terry Kelly; and ten grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
A memorial has been established in her memory for later designation by the family. Condolences can be shared online at bullocklongfuneralhome.com.
Funeral services will be Thursday, December 13, 2018, at 10:30 am at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in North Platte, NE with Pastor Bob Deardoff officiating. Burial will be at 1:30 pm in the Morning View Cemetery south of Wallace, NE.
Visitation will be Wednesday, December 12th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Carpenter Memorial Chapel in North Platte.
Bullock-Long Funeral Home of Grant, NE is in charge of arrangements.
Ruben Winter, 96, of Goodrich, ND died Thursday, October 18, 2018 at the St. Aloisius Nursing Home of Harvey.
Ruben was born on October 26, 1921 near Chaseley, North Dakota. He was the son of Gust and Lydia (Beich) Winter. Ruben grew up and attended two rural schools north of Goodrich. As a young man he worked on the family farm. During the winter months he traveled to many different states. Ruben married Adeline Kline on May 24, 1953 at Harvey. They lived and farmed where he raised small grains and registered Polled Hereford cattle. Adeline died on January 9, 2011. Ruben continued to live on the family farm.
Ruben was a member of the Untied Methodist Church of Goodrich where he served on many boards. He served on the FHA board in Sheridan County and served for Sheridan county on the NDSU Experimental Station Board in Minot; Goodrich Elevator Board; Goodrich Lions Club; North Dakota Polled Hereford Association and was named Polled Hereford Man Of The Year in 2003.
Ruben is survived by his children, Jason (Linda) of Goodrich, Glenda (Wayne) Moe of Idaho Falls, ID, Julie (Kevin) Bender of Goodrich, Gus (Tina) Winter of Quincy, WA; eight grandchildren, Valerie (Aaron) Stevenson, Jessica (Casey) Anderson, Christina (Theron) Hudson, Erika Moe, Ethan (Megan) Bender, Ranee (Adrian) Ramos, Logan (AnnDraya) Winter, Isaac Winter; great-grandchildren, Jonah, Lydia, Taneah, Mariah, Stevenson, Bjorn and Jesper Anderson, Breckin Hudson, Aidan and Nicholas Ramos, Owen Winter.
Ruben was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Adeline, sister, Alvina Raugust.
After an 86-year ride, Donald Cross tips his Stetson and bids farewell to a rich and vibrant life. A true gentleman in every sense of the word, he possessed a rare combination of humility, modesty and respect for all. Donald will be remembered most for his deep love and devotion to family, community and adventure.
Brewer, hotelier, and rancher, Donald led the family businesses with determination and a strong desire to preserve the Cross legacy. Many historic Alberta organizations benefited from his thoughtful leadership, best illustrated by his half-century commitment to the Calgary Stampede. He was a true Canadian patriot with deep roots in Southern Alberta and his love for the land was ingrained in his DNA.
The outdoors was his playground: hiking, skiing, telemarking, kayaking, polo, fly-fishing, and exploring the back country. Most of all, he loved his daily walk at Bar Pipe with his beloved Bernese by his side, admiring the Hereford cattle with the Rockies in the backdrop.
His strait-shooting, no-nonsense talk was his hallmark. In true western spirit, Donald epitomized the phrase, "talk less and do more." This rare quality endeared him to people from all walks of life.
Above all, Donald was a true family man. He enjoyed an amazing 60-year partnership with his loving wife Shan and together they travelled to every corner of the globe, all the while fostering lifelong friendships and connections. They were the consummate hosts, and Donald always greeted you with dapper style and a frosty ale in hand. As a role model to his four children and grandchildren, he passed along his thirst for knowledge and nurtured each of their unique paths.
Donald will be deeply missed by his wife Shan, his sister Nan, his four children Pam (Hector), Gretchen (Bob), Jay, and Jill (James) and four grandchildren Alexandra, Stephanie, Andrew and Emma.
The family would like to thank those who touched his life, especially his long time devoted caregivers, Debbie and Sylvia, and the medical community who were pillars of support over the past few years.
In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made to the Hotchkiss Brain Institute's Brain Bank. Cheques must be made payable to the University of Calgary – Brain Bank or online at: (http://netcommunity.ucalgary.ca/DonaldCross).
Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Donald's life on Sunday, October 28th from 2:00 to 4:00pm at The Ranchmen's Club - 710 13th Avenue SW. Calgary.
As Donald would say, happy trails!
De Smet - Thomas (Tom) Peckenpaugh, 74, De Smet, SD, died Sunday September 9, 2018 at the De Smet Good Samaritan Center, De Smet, SD, after a 2-year battle with cancer.
Thomas Paul Peckenpaugh was born October 14, 1943 to Francis and Loretta (Callahan) Peckenpaugh at Carthage, SD. He graduated from De Smet High School in 1962. After high school, he attended South Dakota State University and graduated in 1967 with a degree in Animal Science. While at SDSU, he was a member of the SDSU rodeo team, where he competed in bull riding and bareback riding.
Following his graduation from SDSU, he returned to the family farm. Family was very important to Tom. He loved farming, ranching his Hereford cattle, and his quarter horses.
Tom is survived by two brothers, Jim Peckenpaugh, Carthage SD; and Bob (Nancy) Peckenpaugh, Carthage; five sisters, Helen (Jim) Heiter, Alexandria SD; Mary (Roger) Widman, De Smet; Magaret (James) Mourek, De Smet; Janice (Alan) Serfling, Madison SD; and Pat Peckenpaugh, Sioux Falls, SD; 15 nieces and nephews and several great-nieces and nephews, and friend, Judy Fredrichs.
Jane L. Glennie 84, of Harlowton died in her daughter Janie's arms and in the presence of her grandson Jason at sundown on Sunday, September 9, 2018. Jane Law was born during a snow storm in Lewistown, Montana on April 26, 1934 – the youngest of three girls born to Jim and Helen (Baxter) Law.
All Jane ever wanted to be was a cowboy. She spent most of her time growing up on the Baxter Ranch. Her uncle Bob Baxter was her mentor. She was really handy with a fly rod and became a crack shot. She went to Harlowton High School and was the youngest Junior Rifleman instructor in the nation. Jane claimed that she was never in trouble and received good grades! This may be in some dispute. Jane attended college at the University of Montana in Missoula and graduated with a degree in Education. A lifetime of winning all the Bobcat-Grizzly football bets caused some first-class hissy fits from the rest of her family since they were all Bobcats! Maybe that's why she was the brains of the outfit!
Jane was captivated by horses at a young age by a big black horse named Star. Then she was given a mare named Flicka that Gib McFarland raised. Flicka was a Steel Dust-bred horse, and that started a lifetime of roping and riding. She won an All-Around Cowboy buckle, a very prized possession! She also won the 1966 Montana Rodeo Association Champion Barrel Racer on a little bay gelding named Chester that Jane bought from John Harstad.
One night in the Two Dot Bar she got engaged to George Glennie, and they were married on November 29,1958 on the Baxter Ranch. Jane and George were both very active in the day-to-day ranching activities. At the time everything was fed with a team and wagon. They raised their daughter Janie along with top notch Hereford cattle. The Glennie Ranch continues to be known for the quality of its cattle, although they turned black in the 1990's, and its outstanding horse herd. George passed away in 1980, and Jane continued to run the daily ranching operations. Ranching became increasingly complex, but Jane ran a darn shipshape outfit and was attentive to every detail.
One of the highlights of Jane's life was being featured in a 1982 front page article of the Wall Street Journal. In a portrait of a tough and savy ranch woman succeeding in a man's world, Jane is quoted as saying"…You can spend all day cleaning to make your house look slick. Then you turn around and it's a mess again. But get yourself some barbwire and steel posts and build a good fence and you can admire that for 20 years…"
In addition to running the ranch, Jane was a director on the Board of the Continental National Bank in Harlowton from 1980 until it merged with Citizen's Bank in 2008. Jane was recognized as the Montana Hereford Woman of the Year in 1987, the Wheatland County Stockgrowers Stockman of the Year in 1997, she received the Montana Hall and Wall of Fame Cowboy and Cowgirl Heritage Award in 2016, the Northern Livestock Video Auction Pioneer Rancher of the Year in 2012, and the Wheatland County Friends of the Fair Award in 2016. Jane was one of the selected Drovers on the 1989 Montana Centennial Cattle Drive. Jane was a Kappa Alpha Theta and a lifelong member of the Republican Party. Jane was an enthusiastic supporter of the Harlowton Engineers and the broader community. She played an important role in establishing the Two Dot Community Center and Firehall and she served on the Two Dot school board.
Jane never missed anything that her daughter Janie or her grandson Jason participated in. She logged endless miles to attend basketball and football games, track meets, Range Days, ropings and rodeos. She was a supporter of 4H and worked behind the scenes to ensure that kids were well mounted in Wheatland County and beyond. Jane had a particular soft spot for little girls that lived in town that wanted a horse…
Strong in her opinions, Jane never lost an argument – even when she was wrong! But Jane enjoyed a good laugh, and could tell epic tales of ranch mishaps and misdeeds that left everyone rolling in the aisles. And as long as no one was hurt, she really loved watching a good ranch wreck unfold! Her handshake was an ironclad guarantee, and a more loyal friend never existed.
Jane is survived by her daughter Janie Carlson, grandson Jason Carlson, nephews Bob Russell, James Mollander, George Mollander and niece Carol Mollander.
In addition to her husband Jane was preceded in death by her parents Helen and Jim Law, her sisters Mary Fran Mollander (Denny) and Helen (Doodie) Russell (Spen).
Jane was grateful for the kind and attentive care she received from the doctors, nurses and staff of the Wheatland Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home during the last few years. In particular, she would like to acknowledge the affectionate care she had from Wendy, Cindy, Atha, Lorna and Janell. She loved playing Bingo with the other residents. Very special care taker Kathy Miller and her dog Roper… I can't describe the feelings. Jane had for your companionship. Thank you so very much.
Jane's favorite things were really good cattle, top-notch cow horses, her dogs and cats – especially Cairn Terrier Oscar- her swather, her four-wheel drive, rain, brook trout, her .30-.30, calf fries, her daughter Janie and her grandson Critter!
Funeral Services for Jane L. Glennie will be Friday, September 14, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Glennie Ranch at Two Dot. Committal will be Monday, September 17th, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. in the Harlowton Cemetery. The Perkins Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Friends are asked to make memorial to the Two Dot Community Club or the Wheatland County senior van and they may be left with the Perkins Funeral Home, PO Box 313 Harlowton, MT 59036. Condolences for the family may be posted on-line at www.perkinsfuneralandcremation.com
Earl Britton passed away late Sunday evening, Sept. 9, 2018, at Big Sky Assisted Living in Butte, MT. Earl was born on April 3, 1920 in Sanborn, IA. His parents were Fred and Pearle (Cole) Britton. He was raised on an Iowa farm and attended school in Sanborn.
In 1941, he married Mary Enenbach, who had just graduated from nursing school. They lived on an Iowa farm for five years. In 1946, they moved to Butte, MT. He worked for and represented a large cattle company from Sioux City, IA. In 1966, Earl, and three partners, purchased the Montana Livestock Auction Company in Butte. In 1971, he was elected president of the National Markets Association, which consisted of the markets in the United States and Canada. Earl also served on the Board of the Lady of the Rockies.
Earl liked to fish and was especially fond of snow skiing and waterskiing. He skied until he was 87.
Surviving him are his son, Craig and his wife, Shirley; daughter, Joani and son-in-law, Jim Kissock; daughter, Anne and son-in-law, Jack Sanders; daughter, Kay and son-in-law, Al Hjellum; daughter, Becki and son-in-law, Don Birch; 13 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren.
He will be missed by his family and everyone who knew him.
The family wishes to extend a special their appreciation to the staff at Compassus Hospice, especially Dorothy, for the special care that Earl received.
Relatives and friends may call Friday after 5 p.m. in the Duggan Dolan Mortuary Chapel. Parish Vigil will be recited at 7 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 11 a.m. in Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Memorials are suggested to Our Lady of the Rockies.
Richard J. Menke, age 92 of Fairbury, NE (formerly of Beatrice, NE) passed away on July 24, 2018 at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Lincoln, NE. He was born January 6, 1926 at Morrowville, KS to the son of Dick and Louise (Hauschel) Menke.
Richard graduated from Morrowville High School in 1944 and immediately enlisted into the Navy where he spent almost four years of his life serving in WWII. The ship he was on was called the USS Buckley DE 51. When he returned from the Navy, he helped his dad farm. On May 28, 1950 he was united in marriage to Leota E. Earhart. They started their life farming just south of the Nebraska-Kansas State Line. They were blessed with two children, Sheila Sue and Marlys Janeen. In 1957 they moved to Beatrice, NE so Sheila could attend the Martin Luther Home School. Richard worked at Dempsters for two years, Household Supply for 17 years and Store Kraft Manufacturing for over 34 years which he then retired in 1990. Richard continued to work in Beatrice and still continued to farm in Kansas. He farmed and raised Polled Hereford cattle for many years. He was a life long member of the Nebraska Hereford Association and the American Hereford Association. His love was his family, farming and cattle.
He loved to watch Nebraska football, volleyball and basketball (especially when his great-nephew, Trevor Menke, was on the team). He also was a Royals Fan and enjoyed following them on TV.
He had many "coffee drinking" buddies over the years. When living in Beatrice, the coffee crew always hung out at Country Cookin. After moving to Fairbury he had different "coffee buddies" that hung out at Fairbury Sale Barn. He enjoyed that very much.
His greatest love was his children and his grandchildren – Megan and Marc. In 2000 Richard moved to Fairbury only a few houses North of Marlys to be closer to his family. The grandkids spent endless time with Grandpa either at his house, the farm, the sale barn or wherever. He enjoyed seeing them graduate from high school & college, saw them get married and greatly enjoyed the great-grandkids – Marley, McKinley, Rory and Mara. He never missed any "outing" of any kind with his family. The great-grandkids would always want to go to Grandpa Menke's house so they could eat Pringles and/or ice cream.
Richard was a member of the First United Presbyterian Church in Beatrice, VFW Legion and American Legion in Beatrice, NE.
Survivors include his daughter Marlys Hanson and husband Mike; granddaughter Megan Rosener and husband Joey; grandson Marc Hanson and wife Michelle; great-grandchildren, Marley & Rory Rosener and McKinley and Mara Hanson all of Fairbury. Sister in law, Phyllis Menke of Fairbury, brother Donald Menke and wife Marilyn of Washington, KS and sister Lavon Nigh and husband Jim of Omaha, sister in law Agnes Marsteller of Washington, KS, many nieces and nephews, friends and his part-time porch sitting dog, Roxie.
Preceded in death by his wife, Leota, daughter Sheila, sister and brother-in-law Marguerite and Virgle Hanshaw, brother Perl Menke, brother-in-law Stewart Earhart and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Elwyn and Maxine Dees.
Morris L. Hagberg was born January 8, 1932, to Ernest L. and Hilda (Nelson) Hagberg at the family farm east of Spencer, NE. He attended School District #27 for eight years, and graduated from Spencer High School in 1949. Morris was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bristow, NE.
Morris served in the United States Army in Japan from 1954 until 1956. He then began farming and raising cattle and Quarter Horses. On September 1, 1957, Morris and Nola Klasna were united in marriage at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Spencer and he became a member of Our Saviour's. They moved to the farm in January 1958 and lived in the house where Morris was born until January 2016, when they moved into their home in Spencer.
Morris drove to the farm daily until April of this year when his health failed and he was hospitalized at Faith Regional Health Services in Norfolk, NE and O'Neill Care and Rehabilitation. He passed away on June 14, 2018, at Faith Regional Health Services.
Morris' greatest joys were being with his grandchildren and taking his dog Blue along in the Ranger to check on his cattle and horses.
Morris is survived by his wife, Nola; son, Kent (Danell) Hagberg of Spencer; daughter, D'Ann (Carl "Speed") Gehlsen, Jr. of Mission, SD; son, Shawn (Mallory) Hagberg of Spencer; grandchildren, Adam (Kerstin) Hagberg and their children, Gavin, Sophie, and Chloe of Corvallis, MT; Andrew (Kendra) Hagberg and their children, Baleigh, Ascher, and Cooper of Hickman, NE; Erik Hagberg of Spencer, Darcy Hagberg (Kyle Eddy) of Nashville, TN; and Halie, Katelynn, Damien, Hazel, and Hadley Hagberg of Spencer; brothers, Rev. Ray Hagberg of Minneapolis, MN; and Dr. Norman (Joyce) Hagberg of Glenwood, MN; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Lloyd; sister-in-law, Nellie Faye Hagberg; his grandparents; father and mother-in-law, Louis and Mildred Klasna; and brother-in-law, Ronald Klasna.
Memorials may be directed to Spencer Rescue Unit or Orphan Grain Train.
Marguerite L. Atkins, 95, of Sioux Falls, SD, formerly of Tea, SD, died Friday, August 17, 2018, at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, August 24, 2018, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Tea. Visitation with family present to greet friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., with a 7:00 p.m. Liturgical Wake Service, on Thursday, August 23, 2018, at George Boom Funeral Home & Crematory, Sioux Falls.
Marguerite Lillian Fritz was born November 18, 1922, to Charles and Lilly Fritz of Tea SD. She was the youngest of seven children and attended Tea Elementary School and Washington High School in Sioux Falls graduating in 1940. After attending Teachers College in Madison, she taught school in Canistota for two years. On June 30, 1944, she was married to Alvin Atkins and they lived in the Sioux Falls and Tea area most of their married life where they raised four sons. After their sons were in school, Marguerite returned to her teaching career and also took college classes on evenings and weekends to earn her degree from Augustana College. She taught for twenty years in the Sioux Falls School District.
Marguerite enjoyed the outdoors, flowers, gardening, fishing and golf. She loved to travel, including many fishing trips to Canada, vacations in Alaska, Europe, the east coast and other parts of the United States. She was competitive and always reminded her family that she caught the largest Walleye of any of them while she and Alvin traveled to Saskatchewan for their 50th wedding anniversary. Growing up she was a tomboy and enjoyed riding horses, being outdoors and playing ball with her 5 older brothers. In grade school she said she never played with dolls like many of the girls, instead she always played baseball with the boys and thought that competition helped her get on the girls basketball team in College at Madison. Marguerite also loved reading and poetry – a gift that she has passed on to her sons and grandchildren. After retirement she took up cross stitch and quilting, a craft that she enjoyed sharing with her daughters-in-law. She loved teaching and in her later years she spoke often of how much she missed teaching and her students. Most of all, Marguerite loved her family. She loved spending time with them and cooking great meals for them. She will be dearly missed.
Marguerite was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Tea.
Left to cherish her memory are her sons, Thomas (Margaret) Atkins of Winchester, TX, Charles (Jan) Atkins of Fort Pierre, SD, Paul (Deborah) Atkins of Big Sky, MT, and Peter (Laura) Atkins of Tea, SD; eight grandchildren, John Atkins, Joseph (Sonya) Atkins, Alison (Loren) Denton, Christopher (Kristin) Atkins, Scott (Sarah) Atkins, Craig Atkins, Paul (Sarah) Atkins, and Aria (Bryan) Wiatzka; 16 great grandchildren; and 3 great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Alvin, five brothers; Glenn, Harvey, Harold (Lester), Arthur (Pete) and Irvin and one sister, Ella Kolsch.
Friends and relatives are invited to gather with the family for lunch and fellowship at St. Nicholas Catholic Church following the funeral service. Per Marguerite's request, the family will travel to St. Michael's Cemetery in Sioux Falls for a private interment. The family will direct memorials to the Sioux Falls Butterfly House.
Linda Louise Phillips, 67, of Arthur, passed away Aug. 9, 2018, at the Ogallala Community Hospital.
Linda was born on May 24, 1951, in Walla Walla, Washington, to Raymond Virgil and Emily Louise Braden Trapp. She grew up and attended school in Walla Walla and graduated from high school there in 1969. She then attended Washington State and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in fashion design in 1973.
She moved to Portland, Oregon, where she worked for various businesses in accounting.
In 1990, she was in Arthur to visit family and friends, when she met Mick Phillips. They were married on Nov. 30, 1991, at the Lake Grove Presbyterian Church in Lake Oswego, Oregon. On Dec. 28, 1991, they had a second ceremony at the Arthur Baptist Church. They made their home on the ranch northeast of Arthur. Linda and Mick were secretary-managers of the Nebraska Hereford Association from 1992 to 1997.
Linda enjoyed sewing and quilting. She was part of a small group called the Busy Bees, who made smaller charity quilts. The ladies would often make 80 quilts a year for charity.
Linda loved kids and led the church nursery for several years.
Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Louise; in-laws, Jess and Goodrun Phillips; and nephews, Rick Summers and Kevin Summers.
Linda is survived by her husband, Mick; sister, Debby (Lynn) Roehm of Baker City, Oregon; sisters-in-law, Whanda Collins of Broadwater and Caroldene Summers of Mullen; brother-in-law, Rennie (Marge) Phillips of Scott City, Missouri; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Memorials are suggested to the Samaritans Purse-Christmas Shoe Boxes. Online condolences may be shared at drauckerfh.com, where it will be streamed live for those unable to attend.
Services will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 17, at the Arthur Baptist Church with the Rev. Blake Wilkes officiating. Burial will take place at the Arthur Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2-6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 16, at the Arthur Baptist Church. Draucker Funeral Home, Ogallala, is in charge of arrangements.
Smith "Smitty" Cox, 75 of Jefferson passed away on July 30, 2018. Smitty was born on June 6, 1943 in Lebanon, Oregon to Delbert "Mike" and Louise (Looney) Cox. He grew up on thefamily farm just east of Albany. Smitty attended Clover Ridge School and Albany High School, where he was involved in 4-H and FFA and had a flock of 350 ewes. He showed his lambs at numerous fairs.
Smitty married Ileane Miller in 1963 and they had two sons, Brad and Wade, before later divorcing.
His ancestors came West on the first wagon train to traverse the Oregon Trail and settled inthe Willamette Valley in 1843. He was proud of his pioneer heritage, was sixth generation on the land and lived on the farm located north of Jefferson since 1966. It's the oldest family owned farm in the state of Oregon. Smitty began his career working with sheep and cattlewith his parents. In 1972, Smitty was instrumental in bring purebred Polled Hereford bulls from Canada to the United States. Smitty worked at the Portland Union Stockyards in 1975 and operated a buying station where he worked with sheep producers from all over the Pacific Northwest. In 1985 he established a sheep receiving station on the family farm in Jefferson.
Smitty met his long-time love, Teresa Barber, in 1995 at the Oregon Sheep Grower's 100th Anniversary convention. They spent the last 22 years raising and showing purebred Hereford cattle, and exhibited at many shows around the country. He greatly admired Spidel bloodlines and had carried on those genetics in his herd. He owned cattle in Canada and continued to maintain those connections and friendships with several Canadian Hereford breeders. A highlight of his years raising Herefords was attending the World Hereford Conference in Calgary in 2012 and attending the Stampede. Smitty and Teresa thoroughly enjoyed mentoring and advising youth in the livestock industry, as well as their own grandchildren.Smitty was a member of the Oregon Hereford Association, American Hereford Association and Oregon Sheep Growers Association.
Smitty was a loving man that touched the lives of so many, including extended family. He is survived by his love, Teresa Barber, sons Brad (Buckley) of Eagle Point, Wade (Danelle) of Albany, sister Kay (Bob) Cowan Thompson of John Day and grandchildren who will miss him dearly. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister Jeri (Cox) Nicholson.
Memorial contributions may be made to Oregon Hereford Association, in memory of Smith Cox, to PO Box 137, Crabtree, Oregon 97335.
Arthur Byron Bayers – 1930-2018
Byron Bayers was born in 1930 in Dillon, MT to Art and Elizabeth Bayers. He had 5 older sisters, Helen, Jeanne, Beach, Bertha and Wanda. He passed away peacefully on July 15, 2018, at the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Clinic (EIRMC) in Idaho Falls, where he was in ICU following complications from a fall at the family ranch in Twin Bridges, MT.
After high school he attended the University of Montana in Missoula. There he received a degree in business and competed in track and football until ROTC duties demanded more of his time. While there, he married his high school sweetheart, Pauline Oberg of Twin Bridges. He and Pauline were married for 62 years before her passing in 2015. Following college Byron entered the Air Force during the Korean Conflict. His original military orders were to Korea, but later changed to a radar base in Yaak, MT. There he served as a Lieutenant, helping run the base on the Canadian border. He was very patriotic and proud of his service.
After his Air Force service they returned to Twin Bridges and back to the ranch until his father's death in 1960. He then continued to run the ranch until his recent passing. He and Pauline raised 3 children, Rich, Kathy and Jill on the ranch.
His love for Herefords was unsurpassed. He served on the American Hereford Association (AHA) Board in the 1970s and was elected President in 1976. In 2017 he was inducted into the AHA Hall of Fame. He attended World Hereford Conferences in Canada and Uruguay and went to Hungary to act as an AHA consultant to that country in selecting Herefords. In 2009 he was the recipient of the Canadian Hereford Ambassador Award.
Many annual cattle auctions were held in the Old Round Barn located on the Bayers Ranch where their cattle set several price records in Montana. During these years, the Bayers Hereford Ranch sold cattle and genetic material into 38 states and 3 foreign countries. He also judged some of the major cattle shows across the country.
In 1997, he along with wife Pauline and daughter and son-in-law Jill and Marc Hotchkiss, started the publication Hereford America which is widely read nationwide and in seven countries.
He also became a private pilot after being passed over in the Air Force due to less than 20/20 eyesight. His flying was a real passion for him, culminating with him flying or owning 117 different aircraft and the accumulation of over 10,000 hours of flight time. He was appointed to the Montana Aeronautics Board for several years and was presented with the Pilot of the Year award for 2005-2006. He also received the Wright Brothers Master Pilot award from the Federal Aviation Administration in 2005.
Other hobbies included following his beloved UM Grizzlies, local high school and national sports. He attended many Twin Bridges High School basketball tournaments in recent years and was a mainstay in the stands or on the sidelines for his children's events. He also coached many Little League, High School and softball teams. He still attended high school football games and had a special parking place on the side lines, where he could park his pickup and sit in a chair in the bed of his pickup. Thanks to TBHS for letting him do this!
Byron was also very interested in visiting with all types of people about all subjects, was very well read and always made time for people. His community and county were very important to him. He was on many local boards and was a Madison County commissioner for several years. He served 3 terms on the local school board as well. These were sometimes thankless, stressful duties but he always listened to people's concerns, often with phone calls early and late in the day.
He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and community, but his good work lives on. The family wants to thank all who have sent condolences and will have a private family funeral. Most friends and family had just celebrated the ranch's 100th year anniversary and family reunion at the Round Barn the week before his passing. Please remember him as he was there – vibrant, visiting with everybody and sharing his proud family history.
He is survived by his 3 children, Rich (Mary Ann) Bayers of Buffalo, WY; Kathy Bayers of Bozeman, MT; Jill (Marc Hotchkiss) of Reva, SD, two grandchildren, Britt (Blair) Bayers and Lindsay (James Hruby), and two great grandchildren, Mia and Jack Hruby. He also has many cousins, nephews and nieces as well.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Byron's name can be sent to the Church of the Valley, PO Box 11, Twin Bridges, MT 59754 or to the Byron Bayers Memorial Scholarship, %Opportunity Bank, PO Box 417, Twin Bridges, MT 59754.
Dad, ol' bull shipper and pilot, rest in peace!
Robert B. Goggins
May 28, 1924~July 9, 2018
Robert B. Goggins, 94, of Ennis, passed away on July 9, 2018. Born in Brooks, Montana, on May 28, 1924, Bob was the third of John and Pearl Cook Goggins' seven children. He and his five brothers and one sister grew up in the Clark's Fork Valley near Fromberg, and stories of the antics of the Goggins boys are still told today.
After graduating from Fromberg High School in 1942, Bob worked a variety of farming and ranching related jobs. One of those was for an apiary that sent him to the Harlowton area to work bees. A cute redhead named Cora Amdor working at the local soda fountain caught his eye. He asked her for a date the day after she graduated from high school and they were married that fall on October 30, 1946. This began an epic adventure that spanned the next 71-plus years.
Bob and Cora worked for several prominent Hereford breeders where Bob was the herdsman. His keen eye for cattle and stockmanship skills ensured his show strings were always top of the line. He and Cora bought their first registered Herefords in 1955 and bought the home ranch in Ennis in 1959. Through the years, he raised high quality Hereford cattle, selling bulls into all the Western states. He also judged many state and national Hereford shows and was president of the Montana Hereford Association for two terms. His name was synonymous with honesty and integrity.
Bob grew up in a time when you couldn't just go buy new machinery or parts and he had an inventive mind and a skill for making things work even better than their original design. His creativity even led to him owning a patent for one of his inventions. He was an incredibly progressive cattleman and was an early adopter of new technologies in the beef cattle industry.
In addition to ranching, Bob owned the Cibola 8 mining company and enjoyed gold mining in the North Meadow Creek area. He served on the Ennis Rodeo Association board as well as the Farm Service Agency board. Bob was well known for his keen wit, faith, and unfailing optimism.
Family was of utmost importance to Bob and Cora, and they raised their children to work hard, making work on the ranch fun. Bob enjoyed life and will be greatly missed by his family which include his wife of 71-plus years Cora, children Betty Goggins, Bob (Terri) Goggins, Janet Endecott, Jim (Shelly) Goggins, and Pat (Michelle) Goggins, grandchildren Coralee (Chad) Butterfield, Rachel Endecott, and Coy (Valene) Goggins, great-grandchildren Aaron and Marlee Butterfield, sisters-in-law Babe Goggins, Millie Goggins, Sue (Gary Foust), and Alice (Don) Crum, and brothers-in-law George Ellinghouse and Bill Amdor.
We would all be well served to live by Bob's motto of "make definite plans but keep them flexible". Celebration of life services will be held on Monday, July 16, 2018 at Saint Patrick's Catholic Church in Ennis. Rosary at 10 a.m. and Mass at 10:30 a.m. with luncheon to follow. Donations in Bob's name can be made to Madison Valley Medical Center, PO Box 993, Ennis, Montana 59729 or to Saint Patrick Church, Madison County Catholic Community, PO Box 17, Sheridan, Montana 59749.
- Bert Reyes
- Jane Durham
- Clint Schultz
- George Knox
Mn Board of Education Steps in to Help Willmar School System
Source: http://herefordamerica.com/obituaries
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