KEWPIE MEMORIAL PAGE

With Sympathy

Kewpie Deaths - 2011
 
 

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Courtesy of Charley Blackmore, Kewpie Classmates Association
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Those we love truly never die
Though year by year the sad memorial wreath--
A ring and flowers, types of life and death--
Are laid upon their graves.
Well blessed is she who has a dear one dead
A friend she has whose face will never change,
A dear communion that will not grow strange.
The anchor of a life is death.
There is no death, nor change, nor any ending.
Only a journey, and so many go
That we who stay at length discern the blending
Of the two roads, two breaths, two lives, and so
Come to the high and quiet knowledge that the dead
Are but ourselves, made beautiful instead.
 From, "Readings on the Philosophy of Death"
Author Unknown, from "Poetry For Verse Speaking Choir"
Arranged by, Helen D. Williams















































OBITUARIES COURTESY OF "THE COLUMBIA DAILY TRIBUNE
Bill Crane, Class of 1939, passed away Saturday, December 31, 2011.

Paul Allen Medley, Classof 1952, died Thursday, December 29, 2011 in Columbia.

Fred L. Baker, Class of 1956, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011.

Donald L. Wilmoth, Class of 1955, passed away on Monday, Dec. 19, 2011.

Edith Margaret Carnes Wills, Class of 1939, died Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, at Stuart House in Centralia.

Dianna Purcell Buckingham, passed away December 11, 2011, at her home in Denver.

Margaret Borth McCluskey, Class of 1941, died December 2,  2011, in a bus accident in downtown Vancouver, Washington.

John Michael “Mike” Brooks, Class of 1965, died Friday, Dec. 9, 2011, in Columbia.

Larry W. Renfro, Class of 1956, passed away Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011.

Ralph Shelton Reddick Jr., Class of 1977, passed away Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011.

Tracy Newton Dexter, Class of 1984, passed away Sunday, Dec. 4, 2011.

Frieda Cathey-Willis, “Nanny,” Class of 1943, passed away Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011, in Tomball, Texas.

Steve Dean Smith, Class of 1977, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2011, at his home in Bull Shoals, Arkansas.

Sharon Kaye Hickem Hardiman, Class of 1974, passed away Sunday, Nov. 27, 2011, in North Carolina.

Cherie "Jan" Chevalier Patton, Class of 1958, passed away Saturday, November 26, 2011.

Robert Dwayne Watson, Class of 1951, passed away Saturday, Nov. 26, 2011.

Nicole Jean Vanderlip, Class of 2012, died Thursday, Nov. 24, 2011, in an automobile accident.

Helen Marie Allen Ousley, Class of 1941, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2011, at her home om Columbia.

Randall C. Rule, Class of 1958, passed away Wednesday, November 23, 2011 in Kingsland, Georgia.

Karen L. Owens Pletz, Class of 1965, passed away Tuesday, November 22, 2011, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

James Edward Hickem III, Classof 2013, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011 in Columbia.

Marilyn H. Hummel Roberts, Class of 1954, passed away Monday evening, Nov. 14, 2011, in Overland Park, Kansas.


Paulette M. Heidy Moore, Class of 1971, passed away Friday, Nov. 11, 2011.

Michelle Ray, Class of 1992, Columbia passed away Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011.

Donald Lee Poore, Class of 1950, passed away Friday, Nov. 4, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Nelda Algiere Coffman, Class of 1958, passed away Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011.

Dr. Roger “Steve” Doak, Class of 1957, died Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011, in Lakewood, Colo.

Margaret Hayes, Class of 1961, passed away Thursday, November 3, 2011 at her home in Columbia.

Clara “Baby Sis” Thomas, Class of 1955, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2011, at her home in Columbia.

Tevin KeShonn Nelson, Class of 2009, passed away Oct. 31, 2011, at University Hospital.

Sterling Wilkes “Mac” McHarg, Class of 1940, died Sunday, Oct. 30, 2011.

Veanessa Vonsha Sutton-Fair, Class of 1993, passed away Thursday, Oct. 27, 2011, at her home in Columbia.

Ronald “Tom” Baker, Class of 1958, of passed away Sunday, Oct. 23, 2011.

Aldus Richard “Sam” Palmer, Class of 1938, passed away Sunday, Oct. 23, 2011.

Alma Elizabeth Wade Parker, Class of 1937, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2011, at the John Knox Village Care Center.

Mary Francis Weldon Wade, Class of 1947, passed away at 5:15 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Eric Oneal Criss, Class of 1984, passed away Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Wentzville, Missouri.

Letha Mae Elder Saunders, Class of 1944, passed away Friday, Oct. 7, 2011, at Ashland Healthcare.

Margaret Jeanne Uren Johns, Class of 1945, died Thursday, Oct. 6, 2011, at her home in Columbia.

Richard “Dick” Brunstrom, Class of 1949, passed away Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011.

Nealia Blanche “Bea” Morris Thomas, Class of 1945, passed away Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011, at her home in Hallsville.

Michael David Deering, Class of 1969, passed away Thursday, Sept. 29, 2011.

Wanda K. Palmer, Class of 1959, passed away Monday, Sept. 26, 2011, at St. Luke’s East Hospital in Raytown, Missouri.

Kenneth Lee Davis, Class of 1970, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2011.

Charles E. Dietz, Class of 1947, died on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2011 in Vero Beach, Florida.

Curtis Edward Aufranc, Class of 1939, died Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011, at Columbia Manor.

Shirley Hall McClure, Class of 1953, died peacefully on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011.

Scott Lynn Caldwell, Class of 1988, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011.

Bill “Punky” McMahon, Class of 1967, went to be with the Lord on Friday, Sept. 16, 2011.

Nelda Marie Ehler, Class of 1965, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011, at her home in Hallsville.

Howard D. Berkley Jr., Class of 1937, died Monday, Sept. 12, 2011, in San Antonio.

Robert Spencer Kunkel, Class of 1943, died Monday, Sept. 12, 2011.

Gregory “Twig” Novak, Class of 1967, died September 9, 2011, at NorthCare Hospice of Kansas City, Missouri.

Allen O. “Bud” Kircher, Class of 1943, passed away Thursday evening, Sept. 8, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia.

Jean Williams Broadus, Class of 1960, died Thursday, Sept. 8, 2011, at her home in Columbia.

Hallie L. Phillips, Class of 1940, passed away Monday, Sept. 5, 2011.

Sherry Anne Ragsdale, Class of 1974, passed away Monday, Sept. 5, 2011.

Ruth Royston George, Class of 1941, passed away peacefully Friday morning, Sept. 2, 2011.

Jimmy C. Davis, Class of 1957, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2011.

Mildred Virginia Hickam McDow, Class of 1938, passed away Sunday, Aug. 28, 2011.

Marvin Eugene “DJ Ice” Holmes, Class of 1983, passed away Aug. 27, 2011, at University Hospital and Clinics.

Katharine Brown Hulen Pierrot, Class of 1937, died peacefully Saturday, Aug. 27, 2011, in Virginia.

Charles Edward “Tutor” Davis, Class of 1952, passed away Friday, Aug. 26, 2011 in Columbia.

Donald Lee LaRoe, Class of 1952 passed away Friday, Aug. 26, 2011, at Heritage Hall Nursing Center in Centralia, Missouri.

Greg Scott, Class of 1975, died Monday, Aug. 22, 2011, while on his way to teach a class at the University of Missouri.

Jane Mathis Pemberton, Class of 1960, passed away Sunday, Aug. 21, 2011.

Patsy Ruth Bozarth Corley, Class of 1953, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011.

Smiley C. Herrin Jr., Class of 1933, died Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2011, at St. John’s Mercy Villa in Springfield, Missouri.

Joseph Rudy Wheeler, Class of 2011, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011.

Lloyd Whitworth, Class of 1943, passed away August 15, 2011 in San Diego, California.

June Ridgway Tull, Class of 1939, died Friday, Aug. 12, 2011.

Alice Elizabeth Thompson West, Class of 1966, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2011.

Christy M. Welliver, Class of 1970, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2011.

Carl Lackland Brady, Class of 1933, passed away Monday, Aug. 8, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Carolyn June Carruth, Class of 1952, went to be with her Lord and Savior Saturday, Aug. 6, 2011.

Janet Belle Keene Moore, Class of 1963, passed away Friday, Aug. 5, 2011.

Mary Ella Todd Cathey, Class of 1942, passed away Thursday, Aug. 4, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Margaret Kathryn Wade, Class of 1933, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Tamara Knepp Poore Romero, Class of 1980, passed away Sunday, July 31, 2011, at the University Medical Center in El Paso, Texas.

Janet McMickle Moore Roddy, Class of 1930, passed away Sunday, July 31, 2011, at The Bluffs.

Marvin Allen Reeder, Class of 1951, died Wednesday, July 27, 2011, at Columbia Healthcare.

Melvin J. Adams, Class of 1970, passed away Wednesday, July 27, 2011.

Martha Lou Snodgrass Hathman, Class of 1956, passed away Monday, July 25, 2011.

Danny Joe Rector, Class of 1963, passed away SundCay, July 17, 2011.

Marvin “Dean” Benthall, Class of 1977, passed away Saturday, July 16, 2011.

Lola Stewart Brooks, Class of 1939, passed away Saturday, July 16, 2011, at University Hospital.

Dr. James E. Steffan, Class of 1943, passed away Monday, July 11, 2011, at the Parkside Nursing Home.

Ruby M. Proctor Stone, Class of 1944, died Friday, July 8, 2011.

James Otis Harrison, Class of 1959, died Friday, July 8, 2011, at University Hospital.

William Grey Bell, Class of 2007, passed away Friday, July 8, 2011 in Columbia.

David Alan Smith, Class of 1979, passed away Monday, July 4, 2011, at his home in Columbia.

Toni Sloan Gabriel, Class of 1967, passed away Friday, July 1st at 9:05am at St Mary's Hospital in Blue Springs, Missouri.

 John Francis “Papa Smurf” Pike, Class of 1958, passed away Tuesday, June 28, 2011.

Carol Jean Conley, Class of 1978, departed this life to be with the Lord on Monday, June 27, 2011.

Thomas Harold Richardson, Class of 1973, passed away Friday, June 24, 2011.

Mary Katherine Lane Scott, Class of 1936, passed away Monday, June 20, 2011, at her home in Sturgeon.

Warren Preston Sights III, Class of 1975, passed away Monday, June 13, 2011, at his home in Columbia.

Inez Via Connor, Class of 1951, died on Memorial Day, May 30, 2011.

Judy Maye Rippeto Perkins, Class of 1960, passed away on Thursday, May 26, 2011.

Durward I. Faries, Jr., Class of 1962, passed away May 25, 2011.

Finley Tate, Class of 1945, died at 4:15 p.m. Tuesday, May 24, 2011, at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, Calif.

Dan A. Rothwell, Class of 1949, passed away, Monday, May 23, 2011 and and resided in Chesterfield, Missouri.

Travis Alan Bradley, Class of 1994, passed away Saturday morning, May 21, 2011, at his home in Lamine, Missouri. 

Janice Spees Ousley, Class of 1947, died Monday, May 16, 2011.

Edith Marie Germane Hurd, Class of 1943, died on May 4 in Falmouth, Massachusetts.

Minnie Colvin Fox, Class of 1938, died Friday, April 29, 2011, in St. Charles, Missouri.

Laura Maxine Moreau Collins, Class of 1948, passed away Sunday, April 24, 2011, in Overland Park, Kansas. 

Matthew S. Meyers, Class of 1990, passed away Friday, April 22, 2011.

Phillip Carlton Reiss, Class of 1969, died Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Druly A. “Skip” Meadows, Class of 1952, lost his battle with cancer Tuesday, April 19, 2011.

Maxine M. Merideth Johnson, Class of 1938, passed away Monday, April 18, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Cheryl K. Toalson Kroha, Class of 1966, passed away Sunday, April 17, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Keri Lynn Hermann, Class of 1986, passed away April 9, 2011, in Columbia.

Stephen G. Gross, Class of 1959, passed away on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at his home in Ocean Pines, Maryland.

Charles A. Nichols, Class of 1971, passed away Monday, April 4, 2011.

Raymond Harry Wood Jr., Class of 1957, passed away Sunday, April 3, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Kyle Justin Major, 31, Class of 1997, died Friday, April 1, 2011, at Staten Island University Hospital in Brooklyn, NY.

Elizabeth Anne Shock Thacker, Class of 1936, died on Monday, March 28, 2011, in Conway, Arkansas.

Billie Sue Atkins Lanham, Class of 1945, passed away Thursday, March 24, 2011, at her home in Columbia.

Vincent T. (Skip) Boyd, Class of 1950, died March 22, 2011, at NorthCare Hospice, North Kansas City, Missouri.

Evalyn May Aufranc Short, Class of 1935, passed away at her home Sunday, March 20, 2011 in Ashland.

Les Proctor, Class of 1960, passed away Tuesday, March 15, 2011.

Lyle “Kenny” Vale, Class of 1941, passed away Wednesday, March 9, 2011, at the Veteran’s Home in Mexico, Missouri.

Joaney “Annie” Berry Carlton, Class of 1953, passed away on Tuesday, March 8, 2011.

Lorna G. Coons White, Class of 1946, passed away Friday, March 4, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Gertrude C. Ackmann, Class of 1943, passed away Wednesday, March 2, 2011.

John Blakemore, Class of 1948, passed away on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at his home in Columbia. 

Kenneth Dean “Deano” Anderson, Class of 1962, passed away Sunday, Feb. 27, 2011, at his home in Columbia.

Cecil Maurice McDonald Jr., Class of 1962, died Saturday, Feb. 27, 2011, in Columbia.

Catherine Ruth Lauderdale, Class of 1972, passed away Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011.

Margaret Louise Gilmore Wood, Class of 1946, passed away Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011, at Capitol Regional Medical Center in Jefferson City.

Donald Lee Adkins, Class of 1954, passed away Thursday, Feb. 24, 2011, at St. Mary’s Health Center in Jefferson City.

Kristen Leigh Hornig, Class of 2002, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011, at University Hospital.

Donald Belcher, Class of 1961, passed away on Thursday, February 17, 2011 in Aurora, Colorado.

Judy McCarty Cottle, Class of 1964, passed away Monday, February 14, 2011.

John Patrick “Pat” Barnes, Class of 1960, died Friday, Feb. 11, 2011, at his home in Columbia.

Alice Juanita “Nita” Roberts, Class of 1966, passed away Thursday, Feb. 10, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Geraldine Short Sapp, Class of 1943, passed away Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011, at The Bluffs.

Ricardo “Rick” Sam Perri, Class of 1967, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2011.

Leon Marshall "Mac" McCorkle, Class of 1932, died February 2, 2011, suddenly and unexpectedly at home in Grensboro, NC.

Emily Sodeman Romine, Class of 2000, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2011, at University Hospital.

Betty Jo Spees Wilson, Class of 1941, was born into eternal life on Thursday, Jan, 27, 2011 in Columbia.

Charles “Charlie” Rohrer, Class of 1981, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011.

Carol Ann Porter, Class of 1976, slept into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Margie Nell Morton Kramer, Class of 1965, died Sunday Jan. 16, 2011, at her daughter’s home in Lake Saint Louis, Missouri.

Pauline Mae Hall Hopson Kinion, Class of 1972, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011, at University Hospital.

William Clifford Powers Jr., Class of 2001, died unexpectedly Sunday morning, Jan. 9, 2011.

Peggy Bruce Leach, Class of 1959, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011, at University Hospital in Columbia.

Peggy J. Scott Reece, Class of 1961, passed away Monday, Jan. 3, 2011 in Tipp City, Ohio.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Published Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Peggy J. Scott Reece, 67, of Tipp City, Ohio, passed away Monday, Jan. 3, 2011.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 6, at Frings and Bayliff Funeral Home, 327 W. Main St., Tipp City, Ohio, 45371. www.fringsandbayliff.com. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Private internment will follow later in Missouri.

Peggy was born July 12, 1943, in Gibson City, Ill., to Orville and Audrey Scott. They preceded her in death as well as her brother, Sherrill Scott, and her sister, Dolores Taylor.

She graduated in 1961 from Hickman High School. While living in Denver, she was a housewife and then worked as a bookkeeper for Jerry Roth Chevrolet in Denver before moving to Tipp City in 1994. Before retirement, she worked as a receptionist at Broadway Hair Studios in Tipp City.

Survived by her husband, Michael M. Reece; daughter Michelle L. Reece Straw; her husband, Jerry; and granddaughter Mackenzie of Carlisle, Ky.; and son Mitchell M. Reece and wife Kristin and grandson Porter of Brighton, Colo.

Peggy will be remembered by all as a gentle, caring wife, mother and grandmother who loved her family, gardening, scrapbooking, pets, NASCAR racing and Carl Edwards, Missouri Tigers, Cincinnati Bengals, antiquing and bird watching.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Lung Association, 7560 McEwen Road, Dayton, Ohio, 45459, www.lungusa.org.


Published Friday, January 7, 2011

Peggy Leach, 69, of Columbia passed away suddenly on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011, at University Hospital in Columbia.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 10, at First Christian Church, Tenth and Walnut streets in Columbia, with Dr. John Yonker officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia. Visitation will be from 3 to 5 pm. Sunday at Parker Funeral Service, 22 N. Tenth St. in Columbia.

Peggy was born on Nov. 9, 1941, to Oscar and Ruth Bruce in Philadelphia. She came to Columbia in 1955 with her parents and grandmother.

Peggy attended Hickman High School, Stephens College and the University of Missouri, where she was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. In 1963, she earned her bachelor’s degree in education from the university. She married Alan Leach on June 16, 1963. Peggy taught fifth grade and later elementary vocal music for a combined 38 years in the Columbia Public Schools, retiring in June 2010 at Mill Creek Elementary School. Additionally, she was a former member of the Columbia Mother Singers.

Most important, Peggy was a loving wife and devoted mother and grandmother.

Peggy is survived by her husband, Alan; daughters Amy of Columbia and Kelly and husband Kevin Wiggins of Parrish, Fla.; son David and wife Amy of Denver; and grandchildren Madeleine, Nicholas, Haley and Addison.

Memorials may be made to First Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Columbia. Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Wednesday, January 12, 2011

William Clifford Powers Jr., 28, of Columbia died unexpectedly Sunday morning, Jan. 9, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 14, with a sharing of the Rosary at 3:30 p.m. at St. Pius X Church in Moberly. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 13, at Pathway Memorial Funeral Home in Moberly.

Born in Moberly to William Clifford and Patricia Banker Powers, he was their fifth child and first boy. His father died in 1985, when Will was 2½ years old.

Will attended Columbia Catholic School for his elementary education and later attended Maur Hill College Prep School in 1998 and 1999. Growing up, he enjoyed his neighborhood friends, WWF wrestling, tetherball, basketball, baseball and golf.

He graduated from Hickman High School in 2001. He attended Central Missouri State in Warrensburg and later went to work for Blair Johnson of Steamagic, a boss and job he loved. Blair and his wife, Christy, treated Will like a son, and he looked up to them. Will was crazy about the Kansas City Chiefs, St. Louis Cardinals and MU football and basketball. He and his friends occasionally entertained themselves watching UFC fights. He could recite the alphabet backward like his maternal grandfather, and he loved challenging crossword puzzles. He was a good-natured and easygoing guy who enjoyed a good laugh.

Will’s friends will say he was so loyal and was always looking out for others. He loved his family, NFL Sunday football and his friends. Some of his closest friends were Chris, Cameron, John, Bailey, Phillip and Aysha. Most importantly, he was a devoted son and brother to his mother and four sisters.

Will leaves behind his mother, Patricia K. Irby and her husband, James Irby; his oldest sister, Erica Powers and her significant other, Mike Klinginsmith; his sister Nikki and her husband, Duff, Bergendahl and their son, Benjamin; his sister Jessica Powers and her two children, Nicholas Ham and Lily Woodson; his sister Hope Powers and her two children, Jace and Isabelle Jordan, and their father James Jordan and his son, Zachary; his stepbrothers, Casey and Jeremy Irby; stepsister Rebeccah Reeves; and many very special aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.


Published Friday, January 14, 2011

Pauline Mae Hopson Kinion, 57, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011, at University Hospital after a battle with cancer.

Services will be at a later date.

She was born Dec. 23, 1953, to the late Arthur and June Hall.

Pauline volunteered at the Interfaith Day Center, where she had many friends.

She is survived by her husband of 23 years, Billy Kinion; as well as three sons, Richard and Kevin Hopson and Josh Kinion.

Online condolences may be extended to Pauline’s family at www.heartlandcremation.com.


Published Sunday, January 23, 2011

Margie Nell Morton Kramer, 63, of O’Fallon, died Sunday Jan. 16, 2011, at her daughter’s home in Lake Saint Louis

A graveside service will be held in the spring at Laurel Oak Cemetery in Windsor.

Mrs. Kramer was born July 5, 1947, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to Orbin Taylor “O.T.” Morton and Tempe May (Owens) Morton. She graduated from Hickman High School in Columbia in 1965. She married Bobby Lee “Bob” Kramer in Columbia on Dec. 21, 1968.

Survivors include one daughter, Kimberly Kay Kramer-Thomas and one son-in-law, Tracy Brian Thomas, both of Lake Saint Louis; three grandchildren, Marquise, Tiffany, and Taylor Thomas, also of Lake Saint Louis; one brother, Bud Morton (Marsha) of Sikeston; one sister, Sandy Finch (Gordon) of St. Louis; two nieces; and two nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and one niece, Amanda McBain.


Published Monday, January 24, 2011

Carol Ann Porter, 52, of Columbia slept into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 27, at St. Paul AME Church. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the H.T. May and Son Funeral Home in Columbia.

Carol was born May 28, 1958, in Columbia, the daughter of Clarence and Betty J. Stapleton Porter. She was a member of the St. Paul AME Church. She was employed at the University of Missouri Hospital and Clinics.

She leaves to cherish her memory her parents, Clarence and Betty Porter of Columbia; two sisters, Christy Porter of Columbia and Brenda Porter Logan and her husband, Dmitri, of St. Joseph; and one brother, Charles E. Porter of Columbia.

She was preceded in death by one sister, Loretta J. Anderson.

Online condolences may be left at www.htmayfuneralhome.com.


Published Friday, January 28, 2011

Charles “Charlie” Rohrer, 47, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011. A gathering of family and friends will be from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 29, at Memorial Funeral Home.

Charlie was born June 26, 1963, to Ralph and Dorothy Rohrer in Jefferson City. He married Karen Masters on Nov. 13, 1984, and five years later, their daughter, Jennifer, was born. Charlie was a friendly person who enjoyed hosting parties and loved to make others laugh. He was always very active, involved in myriad different hobbies, including shooting pool, fishing, kick-boxing and even receiving a black belt in tae kwan do.

Charlie was a very sociable man and a great friend to all who knew him. He made it a point to spend time with others, especially his daughter, Jenny, who was the center of his universe.

Charlie is survived by his former wife, Karen; their daughter, Jenny; four sisters, Ann LeCure (Marvin) of Centertown, Jane Woosley (Ron) of Richmond, Va., Susan Carman (John) of Rowlett, Texas, and Beth Wiskirchen (Mike) of Johnston, Iowa; two brothers, Ralph Rohrer (Betty) of St. Charles and John Rohrer (Susan) of Richardson, Texas; his best friend, Ron Brockman (Penny); and many other close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and nephew Garrett Rohrer.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Jennifer Rohrer Education Fund, c/o Shelter Insurance Federal Credit Union, 1817 W. Broadway, Columbia, Mo., 65218.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Saturday, January 29, 2011

Betty Jo Wilson, 87, was born into eternal life on Thursday, Jan, 27, 2011 in Columbia.

Services will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, Jan. 31, at First Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home on Sunday, Jan. 30.

Betty was born July 11, 1923, in Newark in Knox County to Fred and Lola Spees. She was a lifetime Missouri resident. She graduated from Hickman High School in1941, Stephens College, and Jewish Hospital in St. Louis as a registered nurse.

Betty married Paul Burdette Wilson on June 27, 1945, at First Baptist Church in Columbia.

The Paul Wilson family lived in Centralia from 1951 to 1976.

She was deeply involved in family, church and community activities. She served as president of Boone County R-VI School PTA and received the Lifetime Award. She also was a member of Panther Boosters, Band Parents. She organized the Centralia School Health Program and served 16 years as a school nurse. She assisted in organizing the Northeast District School Health Program, serving on various committees that included the Missouri State School Nurse Organization. She received the 1990 Northeast District Outstanding School Nurse award. After moving to Columbia, she worked as a Columbia Public School nurse for an additional 13 years in several elementary schools.

Betty volunteered for the Boy Scouts, serving as various counselors, the Baptist Church choir and the American Red Cross Blood Bank. She was past regent of the Columbia Chapter of the National Society of Daughters of American Revolution (DAR), president of Union Veterans of the Civil War (DUV) and an active member of Mother Singers. She was a recreational golfer and loved the camaraderie in the game of bridge. She was a beloved friend, an inspiration and role model for many.

Survivors are sons, Rick Wilson and wife Pat of Columbia, Greg Wilson and wife Susan of Washington; granddaughter, Meredith (James) Nevins and great-grandson, Jack of Columbia; grandsons, Patrick Wilson of Asheville, N.C., and Luke Wilson of North Hollywood, Calif.; sister, Janice (Bill) Ousley of Columbia; and numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and double cousins.

Preceding relatives along the path of eternity include her parents; husband; sisters, Marjorie (David M. Sr.) Scott and Jane (Joe) Corcoran; brothers-in-law; and sisters-in-law.

Pallbearers will be Roger B. Wilson, Roger O. Wilson, Joe Wulff, Jeff Ousley, David Scott Jr. and Matt Tipton. Honorary Pallbearers are Gary Wilson, Andy Wilson, Phil Wulff, Michael Paul Wilson, Boyd Wilson, Bill Ousley Jr., Luke Wilson and Patrick Wilson.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be appreciated for First Baptist Church in Columbia; the American Cancer Society; the American Diabetes Association; Missouri River Hospice; or the charity of the donor’s choice.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


From MarionStar.com Leon Marshall "Mac" McCorkle

GREENSBORO, NC: Leon Marshall "Mac" McCorkle, 96, Marion County businessman and civic leader from 1948 through 1964, died February 2, 2011, suddenly and unexpectedly at home. 

While a resident of Waldo and later Marion, Mac was principal owner of country grain and feed businesses in Marion and adjacent counties and served as an original member of the Marion General Hospital Board of Governors, as a member of the Board of Airport Commissioners, as vice president and finance chair of the Harding Area Boy Scout Council, and as a member of Rotary International. He served as chair and treasurer of the Board of Trustees of the Waldo Methodist Church, was a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, and was an active member of the Marion First Presbyterian Church.

Born August 17, 1914, in Howard County, Missouri, Mac was reared in Clifton Hill and Columbia, Missouri, and earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Missouri. The Alumni Association of the University of Missouri, in 1976, presented him with its Citation of Merit for outstanding achievement and meritorious service in agriculture in the United States and Brazil. In 1938, Mac began both a professional life devoted to agribusiness and an association with Ralston Purina Company which would ultimately take him to Brazil, Argentina, and Chile.

An ROTC Honor Cadet at University of Missouri, Army 2nd Lieutenant McCorkle was called to active duty in 1941, served in the Pacific Theater of Operations with the 5th Air Force, U.S. Army Air Corps, and advanced to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before his release from active duty in 1945. He returned immediately to sales work with Purina in Marietta and Upper Sandusky, Ohio, before purchasing an interest in what later became the Waldo Supply Company.

Mac was chief operating officer and major stockholder in six independent grain and feed businesses in north central Ohio when these were purchased by Landmark Farm Bureau in 1960. He was a director of the Ohio Grain & Feed Dealers Association and served four terms as a director of the National Grain & Feed Dealers Association. In 1964, Mac accepted Purina's offer to open operations in Brazil. Through 1970, Mac was with Purina International, first as founder and country manager of Purina's Brazilian subsidiary and later as its Regional Manager for Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. He and his wife, Mary-Cate studied Portuguese briefly before moving to Brazil—Mac was often the only member of his organization to whom English was a first language—and both continued to study and speak Portuguese throughout the remainder of their lives. For part of this period, Mac owned and operated Fazenda S?o Sebastia?, a 1,730-acre plantation in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil. From 1972-77 Mac was Country Manager, Brazil, for Central Soya Company. He and his wife, C?lia Da Silva McCorkle, resided in Greensboro, NC, from 1978.

In 1939, Mac married Mary Catherine Carrington of Ventnor, New Jersey. During their Marion County years, Mary-Cate was active in church, school, and civil affairs, and served as editor of the weekly Prospect Monitor. She died in 1974. Mac was also preceded in death by a son, William Carrington McCorkle in 1957.

Mac is survived by his wife, C?lia, of Greensboro, NC; four children, Leon Marshall (Diane) McCorkle, Jr. of Dublin, OH, and Southport, NC; Lucinda Ann (Clyde) Allison of Centerville, OH; Sam Batton (Lesley) McCorkle of Des Peres, MO; and Michael Walton (Corinne) McCorkle of Mississauga, Ontario, Canada; grandchildren, Catherine Rengert McCorkle (Jeffrey) Shapiro, Molly Carrington McCorkle (Benjamin) Rule, John Marshall McCorkle, Melissa Diane Allison (David) Turim, William Leon Allison, Mary Elizabeth McCorkle (Scott) Nilsen, Megan Emily (Jeremy Bade, fianc?) McCorkle, Matthew Kenneth McCorkle, Alexander Michael McCorkle, Christopher James McCorkle; four great-grandchildren, Joshua Louis Shapiro, Andrew Jacob Shapiro, Miriam Elizabeth Rule, Jonathan Curtis Rule. Mac's Facs, his autobiography, was published privately in 1995.

February memorial services were held in Greensboro and included Masonic participation by members of Mac's home Lodge.

A 10:00 a.m. memorial service in celebration of Mac's life will be held at Waldo Methodist Church on Saturday, June 25. Interment with military honors will follow immediately in Waldo Cemetery.

If desired, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice or to the Waldo Methodist Church, 141 South Main Street, Waldo, OH 43356.


Published Saturday, February 5, 2011

Emily Sodeman Romine, 29, of Columbia passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2011, at University Hospital.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 7, at St. Andrews Lutheran Church. A gathering for family and friends will be from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 6, at the church.

Emily was born July 2, 1981, in Marshall, Minn., to Paul and Linda Romine.

She was a 2000 graduate of Hickman High School. In 2004, she graduated with a business degree from Southwest Missouri State University, where she was a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority.

Emily loved watching and playing sports, especially softball. She was a member of St. Andrews Lutheran Church, where she was in the Reverence Praise Band. She was a manager at the Old Navy store in Columbia.

Emily is survived by her parents; brothers, John (Laura) Romine of Wichita, Kan., and Jeff (Becca) Romine of Decatur, Ill.; fiancé, Poncho Heath; stepsister, Daniell Romine of West Palm Beach, Fla.; grandparents, Dorothy Sodeman of St. James, Minn., and Carl and Ella Mae Romine of Falls City, Neb.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Norman Sodeman.

Memorial contributions can be made in her memory to St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 914 West Blvd. South, Columbia, Mo. 65203.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Sunday, February 6, 2011

Ricardo “Rick” Sam Perri, 62, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2011. Rick was born November 23, 1948.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 12, at Parker Funeral Service.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Sunday, February 6, 2011

Geraldine Sapp, 85, of Columbia passed away Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011, at The Bluffs.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11, at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. until the time of services.

Geraldine was born June 6, 1925, in Cameron, Ill., to Homer and Kathryn Hopson Short. She married Joseph Sapp on May 25, 1946.

She worked for First National Bank for 30 years, until her retirement in 1990.

She enjoyed camping with her husband, and she was a life member of E.S.A.

Geraldine is survived by a son, Eddie (Sandy) Sapp, and a daughter, Sharon (Rick) McMinn, all of Columbia; a sister, Ruby Teel; grandchildren, Melissa Sapp Lowe, Michael (Jessica) Sapp, Robert (Charlene) McMinn, Kimberly (Larry) McMinn; and great-grandchildren, Lydea Lowe, Blaine and Sidney Sapp, and Ethan McMinn.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a sister, Eva Benedict; and grandson-in-law, Mark Lowe.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to American Diabetes Association, 1316 Parkade Blvd., Columbia, Mo. 65203.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Sunday, February 13, 2011

John Patrick “Pat” Barnes, 69, of Columbia died Friday, Feb. 11, 2011, at his home in Columbia.

The funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 16, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, at the church.

Pat was born July 2, 1941, in Columbia to Donnie and Rose Heisler Barnes. Pat married Lisa D. Smith on July 3, 1986, and she survives. He was a graduate of Hickman High School.

Pat founded the Boone County Fire Protection District and served the city of Columbia on the City Council for 14 years. He was very active in community affairs for many years. Before his death, Pat was vice president of Executive Affiliates based in Big Rock, Ill.

He is survived by his wife, Lisa D. Barnes of Columbia; two daughters, Marielle Holman Barnes of Bangalore, India, and Angela L. Bennett (Brent) of Columbia; and one son, John Patrick Barnes II of Denver; one brother, Richard (Billy) King of Columbia; and three grandchildren, Zachary O’Sullivan, Mitchell Bennett and Lily Bennett.

Memorials are suggested for the Central Missouri Honor Flight, 1400 Forum Blvd., Suite 334, Columbia, Mo. 65203.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Judy M. Cottle, 65, of St. Louis, MO succumbed to complications from scleroderma after being diagnosed 18 years ago.

She died Monday, February 14, 2011.

Her family will be receiving guests at 5318 Tholozan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63109 on Sunday, February 20, 2011 from 12PM - 5PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to:
Scleroderma Research Foundation - www.srfcure.org - 800-441-CURE (2873)
Charlie Cottle Scholarship Fund - www.sccf.us/scholarshipfunds.html - 217-789-4431
BJC Wings (pediatric hospice) - www.friendsofwings.com - 314-273-0862
kewpie.net Scholarship in Memory of Charlie & Judy McCarty Cottle


Published Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Alice Juanita “Nita” Roberts, 62, of Columbia passed away Thursday, Feb. 10, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, at Columbia First Nazarene Church.

Nita was born Feb. 18, 1948, in Columbia to Donald and Alice Forsee Roberts.

She was a floral designer for Nowell’s and Patricia’s Flowers, where she won numerous awards. She was a member and past president of Boone Belles Chapter of ABWA and a member of Columbia First Nazarene Church. She was a Sunday school teacher since she was 12 years old.

Survivors include two brothers, Bill Roberts of Branford, Fla., and Michael Roberts of Harrisburg; two sisters, Mitsy Roberts of Columbia and Niki Shannon of New Franklin; 11 nieces and nephews; and 11 great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Steven Roberts.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family of Nita Roberts or Columbia First Nazarene Church Building Fund, c/o Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N. Garth Ave., Columbia, Mo., 65202.

Online condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at www.bachyager.com.









Donald Belcher, born on January 7, 1943, formerly of Boulder,  passed away Thursday, February 17, 2011 in Centennial, Colorado. He was 68. Private services were held.
Published Thursday, February 24, 2011

Kristen Leigh Hornig, 26, of Columbia passed away peacefully after a difficult struggle Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2011, at University Hospital.
 

Hornig
Memorial services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1600 W. Rollins Road, followed by fellowship in the church hall.

She was born March 9, 1984, the daughter of Ruth Storvick and Elmer Hornig, the sister of Sarah Maikath and David Hornig. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, George Hornig, and survived by grandparents Ilse Hornig and Truman and Lynn Storvick; aunts and uncles Rick and Doris Truetken, Barbara Hornig, Karin Hornig, Kris and Dan Burg, Dave and Angie Storvick, and Jan Storvick; as well as loving cousins and many friends.

Kristen was unconditionally caring and kind. She was loved by all she touched and will be forever missed.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to Kristen’s favorite cause on the ASPCA, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, website, www.aspca.org.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Sunday, February 27, 2011

Donald Lee Adkins, 74, of Centertown, passed away Thursday, Feb. 24, 2011, at St. Mary’s Health Center in Jefferson City.

Private family services will be held under the direction of Houser-Millard Funeral Directors in Jefferson City.

He was born Nov. 26, 1936, in Columbia, a son of the late Roy and Anna Lee Brown Adkins. He was a graduate of Hickman High School in Columbia. On March 18, 1955, Donald was united in marriage in Macon to Nancy Lee Corley, who survives at their home.

Donald worked for Von Hoffman Press for 37 ½ years, where he started as a bookbinder and retired as supervisor. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy who served in the Korean War. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Donald enjoyed fishing and hunting. He also enjoyed volunteering with various youth sports programs.

In addition to his wife, Nancy, Donald also is survived by two daughters, Linda Marie Jackson (husband Steve) of Jefferson City and Cindy Lee Rudder (husband Paul) of Centertown; six grandchildren, Jarad Roark, Brad Roark, April Miller, Mary Rudder, Sara Rudder and Kate Rudder; and two great-grandchildren, Nick Miller and Hannah Sapp.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth Adkins.

Donald donated his body to the University of Missouri’s School of Anatomy in Columbia.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences can be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com.


Published Monday, February 28, 2011

Margaret Louise Wood, 85, of Columbia passed away Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011, at Capitol Regional Medical Center in Jefferson City.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 1, at Parker Funeral Service, 22 N. Tenth St. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Parker Funeral Service.

Mrs. Wood was born Dec. 24, 1925, in Columbia to Harry L. and Mamie Bradley Gilmore. She was married to Dorsey D. Wood on Nov. 8, 1946, and he preceded her in death.

Mrs. Wood was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother; she loved and cherished her entire family. She was a graduate of Hickman High School and a member of Bethany Baptist Church, where she was a Sunday school teacher, vacation Bible school teacher, and past president and a member of the WMU.

She is survived by three daughters, Arletta Hanratty and husband Bruce of Union, Marydell Khan and husband Jim of Columbia and Hope McCrary and husband Jan of Hallsville; one son, Donald E. Wood and wife Judy of Hallsville; three brothers, Jack Gilmore and Bradley Gilmore of Columbia and James Gilmore of Stover; one sister, Peggy Rhoades of Sturgeon; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one brother and two sisters.

Memorials may be sent to the Bethany Baptist Church.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Catherine Ruth Lauderdale, 56, of Columbia passed away Saturday, Feb. 26, 2011.

A memorial service will be at noon Saturday, March 5, at her home, 3600 Churchill Drive in Columbia.

Catherine was born Sept. 19, 1954, in St. Louis to David and Ruth Cauruthers Lauderdale.

She graduated from Hickman High School in 1972. She attended Columbia College and Stephens College.

She was a member of Missouri United Methodist Church. She was a friendly lady who never met a stranger and was loved by her family.

Survivors include three daughters, Sarah Krueger of Jefferson City, Andrea Krueger of Columbia and Jennifer Lauderdale of Florida; and grandchildren Dillon Arnold and Cyrus Krueger.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, David Lauderdale.

Memorials may be given to the family in care of Sarah Krueger.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Friday, March 4, 2011

Cecil Maurice McDonald Jr., 66, of Columbia died Saturday, Feb. 27, 2011, in Columbia.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at H.T. May & Son Funeral Home in Columbia.

Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.


Published Thursday, March 3, 2011

Kenneth Dean “Deano” Anderson, 66, of Columbia passed away Sunday, Feb. 27, 2011, at his home.

Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 3, at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday.

He was the son of Kenneth and Cleo Anderson of Columbia. Dean graduated from Hickman High School. He enlisted in the Marines and served seven years in Vietnam and Okinawa, Japan.

He was married to Mickey Maehira at Memorial Baptist Church. He moved to California and worked at the VA hospital. He retired in 2010 from Quaker Oats of Columbia.

He has two children, Abraham Anderson and Margaret Anderson; six grandchildren, Alysha, Marissa, Noah, Monique, Richard and Reese Anderson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mickey, and his father, Kenneth. His surviving siblings are Gary Anderson and Mike Anderson of Columbia and Beverly Bahm of Belton.


Published Thursday, March 3, 2011

John Blakemore, 81, of Columbia passed away on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at his home. 

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 5, at Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service Saturday.

Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery.

John was born on Sept. 1, 1929, in Columbia, the son of the late Vernon and Mary Fenton Blakemore.

He served 34 years in the U.S. armed forces, including four years in the U.S. Air Force and 30 years in Missouri Air National Guard.

Survivors include two children, John Blakemore and wife Lisa of Columbia, and Lisa Blakemore and husband George, of Tucson, Ariz.; and one granddaughter, Katelyn Blakemore of Tucson.


Published Thursday, March 3, 2011

Gertrude C. Ackmann, 88, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, March 2, 2011.

Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, March 4, at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Gertrude was born Feb. 9, 1923, in Hartsburg to Louis and Katie Telljohann Ackmann, and they preceded her in death.

Gertrude was a lifelong member of the Wilkes Boulevard United Methodist Church and enjoyed arts and crafts, but her greatest love was family time.

Survivors include nephew Howard Hall (Cyndi); niece Charlotte Palmer; great-niece Michele Smith (Aaron); great-nephews Dustin and Adam Hall; two great-great-nephews, Evan Smith and Taylor Hall; and one great-great-niece, Ella Smith. She also was preceded in death by an infant brother and one sister, Veneva Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Susan G. Komen for the cure, attention: donor services, P.O. Box 650309, Dallas, Texas, 75265.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Sunday, March 6, 2011

Lorna G. White, 83, of Columbia passed away Friday, March 4, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 8, at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from noon until the time of service.

She was born on Feb. 6, 1928, in Columbia, the daughter of the late Clyde and Gertrude Gallaher Coons. She was united in marriage to Raymond White on Dec. 27, 1946, and he survives.

In addition to her husband of 64 years, survivors include one daughter, Judy Johnson and husband Richard of Joplin; one sister, Margaret Beatty and husband Morry of Denison, Texas; two granddaughters, Jennifer Johnson of Denver and Rebecca Hodges and husband Doug of Joplin; and two great-grandsons, Ethan and William Baker of Joplin.

She was preceded in death by one son, David White; and two brothers, Don Coons and Charles Coons.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Joaney “Annie” Carlton, 76, of Sunset Hills passed away on Tuesday, March 8, 2011.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Friday, March 11, at Webster Groves Presbyterian Church, 45 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, Mo., 63119. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Gerber Chapel, 23 W. Lockwood Ave. in Webster Groves, (314) 968-2000.

Born in Columbia, Annie, a Hickman High School graduate, earned her bachelor’s degree in interior design in 1957 from the University of Missouri.

She and Dub married that same year.

She was an avid ice skater and enjoyed playing bridge.

Annie was the beloved wife of Uriel “Dub” W. Carlton; loving mother of Tom Carlton, Carrie (Steve) Ward, Jamie Carlton and Jill Oliver; beloved grandmother of Kathryn, Joey, James, Jesse, Matthew, Melissa, Jordie, Clayton, Cameron and Ryan; dear great-grandmother of Alana; loving sister of Marie (Jon) Paden and the late Tom Beary; and dear aunt, great-aunt, cousin and friend to many.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, St. Louis Chapter, 9374 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, Mo., 63132. Family & Friends may sign the guest book at www.gerberchapel.com.


Published Friday, March 11, 2011

Beloved husband and father Lyle “Kenny” Vale, 87, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, March 9, 2011, at the Veteran’s Home in Mexico, Mo.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, March 14, at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. Burial with military honors will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. with a Masonic service at 4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Kenny was born Aug. 9, 1923, on the family farm in Norborne to Joe and Sophia Minteer Vale. He was married to Patrice Mizzell on June 29, 1968, in Columbia.

He was a 1941 graduate of Hickman High School and received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri in 1948. He later obtained his master’s degree from Webster University in 1976.

Kenny served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a B-17 pilot with the famed 8th Air Force — flying out of England during World War II. At the end of the war, he was a lead pilot participating in the historical mercy missions known as Operation Chow Hound — which were flown by the 388th Bomb Group. These missions performed food drops into German-occupied Holland. He also served in the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard in Missouri. He was called back into active service for the Berlin Wall and several other missions. He retired as a lieutenant colonel.

Kenny was president of the Tiger Shrine Club in 1965 and organized the Shrine Band, which earned several Gold Pages at the Shriners Hospital. He was a member of Twilight Lodge in Columbia, Master of Columbia Chapter, Rose Croix of Scottish Rite Masonry and served as Worthy Patron of Boone Chapter No. 290 Order of the Eastern Star in 1977. He also was selected as a Grand Cross designate in 1979. He was a member of the Pachyderm Club and served as national treasurer, the Lions Club, past member of the Columbia Airport Advisory Board, the Quiet Birdmen, past president of the Central Missouri Estate Planning Council and member of the National Association of Life Underwriters.

Kenny loved music and played a mean tuba. He was a member of the Loehnig German Band from Hermann for more t han 25 years, the original Shingle Shakers Dixieland Band, the Shrine Bands in Columbia and St. Louis, and several other Dixieland bands in the Central Missouri area.

During his business career, Kenny was a certified life underwriter and was proud to be part of the life insurance, estate planning and securities dealers professions.

Kenny loved people and loved life. He inspired all around him with his wonderful smile, his sense of humor and his genuine goodness. He is a man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. 

He is survived by his wife, Patrice of Columbia; daughters Louise Willsey of Mesa, Ariz., Ginny (Jim) Pike of Defiance, Carla (Joe) Brewer of Hallsville, Michelle (Adam) Baggett of Columbia; grandchildren Kelly, Josh, Jessica, Samantha, David, Britany, Kenny, Robert, Andrew; great-grandchildren August, Morgan, Draven and Landry.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Joe Donald Vale.

Kenny’s family would like to express their special thanks to all the staff of the Veteran’s Home in Mexico for their exceptional care, love and support.

Memorial contributions can be made to Shriners Hospital, attention Donations, 2001 S. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, Mo., 63131.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Monday, March 21, 2011

Evalyn May Aufranc Short, 93, of Ashland went to her heavenly home Sunday, March 20, 2011.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 23, at Little Bonne Femme Church. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the church. Burial will be in Little Bonne Femme Cemetery.

Evalyn May was born May 31, 1917, in Cedar City. She was the seventh child born to Daniel William Abraham and Mary Johanna Carl Aufranc. She moved with her family to Deer Park in Boone County when she was 2 years old. Evalyn graduated from Hickman High School and the Columbia School of Culture.

She married Robert Clinton Short in Boone County on April 8, 1939, and he preceded her in death.

Evalyn was well-known in the community of Deer Park and later in Ashland. She was a longtime member of Little Bonne Femme Church, the Oakland Quilting Club, Deer Park Ladies Club, Englewood Club and Lenoir Retirement Community. She served as the first secretary for the Cedar Valley Riders Saddle Club in Ashland when it was newly formed. She was active in school activities, serving as room mother and overall supporter of her children’s activities when they attended Ashland schools. She was employed in the cafeteria at the school as well. She also worked in Columbia for Nathan Hale Jewelry Co.

Evalyn was one of 10 children born to D.W. and Mary Aufranc. Her siblings included Dr. Will Henry Aufranc, Ethel Marie Lewis, Dr. Otto Elmo Aufranc, Gertrude Lavera Dawson, Clarance Woodrow Aufranc, Emmett Carl Aufranc, Dorothy Margaret Sapp, Curtis Edward Aufranc and Mary Jo Phillips. Gertrude of Colorado and Dorothy and Curt of Columbia are the surviving children of this union. She also is survived by brother-in-law Paul (Darlene) Short along with many nieces and nephews.

Evalyn is survived by her four children, Sue (Joe) Baumgartner, Bob (Sandra) Short, Joe (Mary) Short and Jan Miller (Larry Morrow).

She is survived by grandchildren Mike Baumgartner (Cathy, Michaela, Clayton), Gary Baumgartner (Dawn, Danielle, Quinton, Cameron), Julie Short, Kim Hook (Stuart, Chance, Jaeden, Zane, Karsten), Brian Short (Malee, Kemp, Kobbe, Nathaniel, Jaaron, Jayla), Stephanie Lacy (Pat, Damond, Tyson, Kasi, Trey), Jill Burkett, Bryce Miller (Ashton) and Jay Miller (Zoe, Zac, Tyler).

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; and grandson Timothy Lane Short.

Besides Evalyn’s passion for her family, she had other loves of life as well, and they included her extended “church” family and neighborhood friends. She loved her many friends and family at the Lenoir Community, the Ashland Villa and the Ashland Health Care Center. She also loved flowers, and when she couldn’t have a garden, she kept them alive by drying flowers and using them in her correspondence. Her other talents included many crafts projects of crocheting, sewing and creating stuffed animals. She blessed her children and grandchildren with handmade quilts personally designed for each of them. Each family has something handmade with love from Grandma Evalyn. Evalyn’s No. 1 passion was her family as evidenced by her labors of love.

For those who met Evalyn, they were left with warm, fuzzy feelings and a smile. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Memorials may be given to Little Bonne Femme Church.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


 


Published Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Les Proctor, 68, passed away Tuesday, March 15, 2011, of natural causes.

A funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 2, at Memorial Funeral Home.

Son of Charles Johnson Proctor and Betty Rea Proctor, he attended Hickman High School and graduated from the University of Missouri with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

After working in the family motel business, he became a banker.

He was active in local government, serving the city of Columbia a total of eight years: as a member of the Planning and Zoning 

Commission (1971-1975), as Fourth Ward City Councilman (1975-1977) and as mayor (1977-1979).

He was a Rotarian and a Paul Harris fellow.

He is survived by his mother; sister Bettina Proctor of Denver, Colo.; daughter Alex Proctor of Sherman Oaks, Calif.; son Les Proctor III; and three grandchildren of Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

Cards may be sent to Bettina Proctor, 2261 Hudson St., Denver, Colo., 80207.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Chaplain Service, c/o Voluntary Service, Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, 800 Hospital Drive, Columbia, Mo., 65201.


Published in Kansas City Star on March 24, 2011

Vincent T. (Skip) Boyd of Gladstone, Mo., died March 22, 2011, at NorthCare Hospice, North Kansas City, Mo. He was born July 22, 1932 in Boone County (Columbia) Mo., and attended Sacred Heart School and then Hickman High School, graduating in 1950.

In his 78 years Skip spent much time taking care of others and doing myriad charitable works. He joined the Knights of Columbus in 1950 in Columbia, transferring later to Council #4962 in Raytown, Mo., where he was instrumental in forming an appreciation dinner for religious in the area. He also was a key figure in the building of a new Knights of Columbus Hall on Blue Ridge Extension. In addition to his work with the council where he was a Grand Knight, he was a District Director, Chapter President and Chapter Secretary. One of his favorite projects was the Knights of Columbus Clown Clubs where he was Skippy, the Clown, for 40 years. Skippy helped form the state Knights of Columbus Clown Clubs and was state chairman at one time. He also was a key figure in forming the Kansas City Knights of Columbus Clown Club and led several clown schools which drew in new clowns.

His church activities included being a charter member of St. Mark's Catholic Church in Independence, Mo. His current church membership was at St. Gabriel's Church in Kansas City North. God was a very important figure in his daily life, and Skip spent much time praying for others. He was said to never pray for himself but for others only.

His work life included Boyd Construction Company and Boyd Coal Company. Later he was involved in pre-cast concrete and then vending which led to his forming Mega Vend, Inc. He served his country with the U.S. Army National Guard during the Korean Conflict.

Skip was preceded in death by his father and mother, Clifford H. Boyd and Nellie F. Hickerson and a son, James V. Boyd. Survivors include his wife of 23 years, Rosetta of the home; sons, Michael, Daniel and Paul, all of Kansas City; a stepson, Keith Hudson (Brenda) of Excelsior Springs, Mo.; grandchildren, James C., Caleb, and Kia Boyd, Independence, and Leah and Luke Hudson, Excelsior Springs and two great- grandsons of Fordland, Mo.

Because he touched so many lives, Skip will long be remembered for his definite ideas. He knew no gray areas, only black and white. So those who knew him were never in doubt about his knowledge and opinions. He got things done, never looking back with any apologies.

Special thanks to Pinnacle Therapy and to NorthCare Hospice. Visitation is scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 24, at St. Gabriel's Church, 4737 N. Cleveland, Kansas City, North with Rosary at 6 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2 p.m. Friday, at the church. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 7601 Blue Ridge Blvd.

The family suggests donations to Catholic Charities, Attn.: Rozanne Prather, 20 W. Ninth St., Kansas City, MO 64105 or the charity of your choice.

Condolences may be left at www.mcgilleysheil.com Arr.: McGilley & Sheil Funeral Homes, (816) 353-6555.


Published Sunday, March 27, 2011

Billie Sue Lanham, 84, of Columbia passed away Thursday, March 24, 2011, at her home.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Monday, March 28, 2011, at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be an hour before the service at the funeral chapel.

Ms. Lanham was born Dec. 6, 1926, in Boone County to Walter Joseph and Virginia Pauley Atkins. On Oct. 26, 1947, she married Joe Leland Lanham in Columbia, and he preceded her in death. She was a member of Little Bonne Femme Baptist Church.

Survivors include three children, Connie Taylor, Donna Lanham and Michael Lanham, all of Columbia; seven grandchildren; and fourteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial contributions can be made to the family of Billie Sue Lanham in care of Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N. Garth Ave., Columbia, Mo., 65202.

Online condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at www.bachyager.com.


Published Sunday, June 5, 2011

Elizabeth Anne Thacker, 93, died on Monday, March 28, 2011, in Conway, Ark., after a brief illness.

She was interred April 1 at IOOF Cemetery in Neosho.

Anne was born Feb. 4, 1918, in Columbia to J. Luke Shock and Gertrude Barnes Shock. Her husband of 55 years, Don Thacker, preceded her in death.

She is survived by a son, Robert L. Thacker, and his wife, Cindy, of Conway; a brother, John L. Shock, and his wife, Fritz, of Conway; and a cousin, Beatrice Bradshaw of Columbia.

A Hickman High School graduate, Anne attended the University of Missouri. She and her husband were residents of Neosho for 36 years. Anne was an elder in Neosho’s First Presbyterian Church and was a member of the PEO Sisterhood, Chapter JO. She was active in many other churches and civic groups and worked as a substitute teacher in Neosho and Springfield public schools.


Published Thursday, April 7, 2011

Kyle Justin Major, 31, formerly of Columbia, died Friday, April 1, 2011, at Staten Island University Hospital as the result of a tragic apartment fire in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, April 11, at Columbia United Church of Christ, with the Rev. Steven Swope officiating. Visitation and celebration of Kyle’s life will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday at the church, 3201 I-70 Drive N.W. in Columbia. Arrangements are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home of Columbia.

Kyle was born Aug. 5, 1979, at Lakeside Hospital in Metairie, La., and moved with his parents to Columbia in June 1981.

Throughout his education, Kyle befriended many of his teachers and school administrators. Kyle loved learning, traveling, music and art. His goals in life were to teach at the college level and to be a lifelong learner.

Kyle was active in many clubs and activities at Parkade Elementary School and at Jefferson Junior High School in Columbia. He enjoyed playing the oboe and singing in school choirs. Outside of school, Kyle participated in sports, church youth group and community theater.

Kyle attended Hickman High School and was a member of the wind ensemble and A Capella Choir. He earned seats in district bands and all-state orchestra on the oboe and participated at the state level of Science Olympiad. Kyle also wrote for the Purple & Gold, the school newspaper.

Kyle earned his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry at the University of Missouri, graduating cum laude. He continued to participate in music ensembles, including wind ensemble and orchestra, and nearly completed a second degree in music composition. Kyle spent a year studying abroad at Monash University in Melborne, Australia. He volunteered as a Big Brother and tutored science at Columbia College.

Kyle was accepted into a Ph.D. program in linguistics at New York University and earned his master’s degree in that discipline. He recently taught a linguistics course at Brooklyn College in New York. Having always been interested in other cultures, he traveled to Canada, Brazil and the Netherlands. Kyle loved learning languages and became fluent in Portuguese and nearly fluent in Slovak.

Kyle had a fantastic sense of humor and a talent for karaoke. He enjoyed collecting PEZ dispensers and once attended a PEZ convention in St. Louis.

Kyle is survived by his mother, Kim Major, of Columbia; father Mark Major, also of Columbia; sister Kelly Major of St. Louis; and brother Scott Major of Jefferson City; grandparents Jane Major of Ocala, Fla., and Elsie and Curt Wehmueller of St. Louis; cousins Ryan, Brad, Stephen and Kevin; aunts and uncles Karen, Leo, Brian and Mary; and many friends.

Kyle’s paternal grandfather, Glenn Major, preceded him in death.

In loving memory of Kyle and his love of education, the family has established a scholarship fund in his name at the University of Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the University of Missouri, Gift Planning and Endowments, Kyle Major Memorial Scholarship Fund, 302 Reynolds Alumni Center, Columbia, Mo., 65211.

Online tributes may be left at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Monday, April 4, 2011

Raymond Harry Wood Jr., 71, of Franklin passed away Sunday, April 3, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center after a long battle with cancer.

There will be a celebration of Raymond’s life from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 5, at Davis Funeral Chapel. A private graveside service for the family will be at a later date.

Raymond Harry Wood was born Feb. 5, 1940, in Columbia, the son of Raymond Harry Wood Sr. and Iva Lee Yeager.

Ray graduated from Hickman High School in Columbia and the University of Missouri’s School of Agriculture.

He married Susan Gault in 1968 in La Plata, and she preceded him in death in October 2009. They are the parents of four children.

He was in the active U.S. Army Reserves out of college and was honorably discharged in 1968. He was a highly respected, trusted and successful farmer his entire adult life in Cooper, Howard and Boone counties.

Raymond loved animals and always had his dog with him. His grandchildren, whom he loved unconditionally, are the recipients of numerous John Deere toys, and they know firsthand of what a grandpa should be.

Besides his wife, Susan, he was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his children, Stephen L. Wood and wife Dana of Franklin, Matthew Wood of Boonville, Sarah Cutter of Boonville and Elizabeth Bernasek and husband Ryan of Valley Falls, Kan.; grandchildren Jasper Cutter, Olivia Wood, Thomas Wood and Lucas Bernasek; as well as a sister, Doris Wood DeFelice of Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Serendipity. Friends may register online at www.davisfuneralchapelboonville.com.


Published Monday, April 4, 2011

Charles A. Nichols, 57, of Columbia passed away Monday, April 4, 2011.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 7, at Nilson Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Nilson

Charles Albert Nichols was born Aug. 30, 1953, in Boone County, the son of O’Dean and Dorothy I. Glover Nichols. He married Sheryl J. Swift on Oct. 19, 1973, in Boone County. Charles enjoyed watching sports and playing football in his younger years. He also enjoyed friends and family and playing a good practical joke.

Survivors include his wife, Sheryl; one son, Kevin O. Nichols; one sister, Margaret R. Nichols; two nieces, Kathy L. Rogers and Kristi L. Talley; and many other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials are suggested to the American Diabetes Association.

Online condolences may be left at www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.


Published in The News Journal on April 10, 2011(delewareonline)

Stephen G. Gross, 69, of Berlin, passed away on Thursday, April 7, 2011 at his home in Ocean Pines, Maryland.

He was born September 11, 1941, in Rogers, OK, a son of the late Milton and Juliet Gross. 

Mr. Gross graduated from the University of Missouri and became a Naval Aviator flying S-2s off various aircraft carriers. Leaving the Navy he received a Masters in Journalism from the University of Missouri and joined The DuPont Company in Wilmington in the advertising department. An active member of Grace Episcopal Church he also acted and directed many community theater shows in Wilmington DE. Mr. Gross retired to Ocean Pines where he focused on various writing and advertising activities. He enjoyed golf, reading and working with computers. 

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Gross of Berlin; his children, Bill Gross of Easton, MD, Julie Plocharczyk of Naples, FL, Robert Gross of Ormond Beach, FL, Kari Yocum of Mt. Pleasant, SC and John Gross of Berlin, MD; seven grandchildren, John, Sarah, Tom, Claire, Hunter, Gunnar and Brock; and two brothers, Philip Gross of Independence, MO and Kendal Gross of Hallsville, MO.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 11, at 7 pm at the Short Funeral Home, 13 E. Grove Street in Delmar. Family and friends may call from 6 to 7 pm.

In memory of Mr. Gross, memorial contributions may be sent to the American Cancer Society , P.O. Box 163, Salisbury, MD 21803-0163.

Arrangements are in the care of SHORT FUNERAL HOME, Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com (302)-846-2525


Published Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Keri Lynn Hermann, 43, of Columbia passed away April 9, 2011, in Columbia.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, April 15, at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Keri was born Feb. 25, 1968, to George Hermann and Bronda Thornsberry.

She attended Hickman High School and had worked at 3M, Mid Missouri Legal Services and Computer Land, all in Columbia.

Keri will be remembered as being a wonderful mother and family member and as someone who lived and enjoyed a full life.

Keri is survived by her mother and stepfather, Bronda and Terry Thornsberry of Columbia; father, George Hermann of Campbell, Calif.; sons, Josh and Isaiah Patrick of Columbia; sister, Krista Pope of Columbia; stepbrother, Brad Thornsberry; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a son, Brandon Hermann Hyler.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Josh and Isaiah Patrick Trust Fund, c/o Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W., Columbia, Mo., 65202.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Monday, April 18, 2011

Cheryl K. Kroha, 63, of Columbia passed away Sunday, April 17, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 20, at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow at Dripping Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Cheryl was born Jan. 7, 1948, in Columbia to Denton and Louise Ott Toalson. She was a member of Grace Bible Church. She worked for 13 years with the city of Columbia as a bookkeeper. Retiring after several years as a caregiver with Visiting Nurses, Cheryl touched the many lives of those she came in contact with. Her greatest love was spending time with her grandson, Tyler.

Other survivors include a daughter, Stephanie Kroha Jennings and husband Jason of New Franklin; a grandson, Tyler Jennings of New Franklin; a sister, Rhonda Weatherspoon and husband Kevin of Hallsville; two nieces, Jenny Greene and Amanda Weatherspoon; a nephew, Justin Weatherspoon; a special cousin, Kathy Neal and husband Dennis Goettel of Columbia; and special friend Sandi Turner Jorde of Arizona.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial contributions are suggested to MS Society or Dripping Springs Cemetery, c/o Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N. Garth Ave., Columbia, Mo., 65202.

Online condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at www.bachyager.com.


Published Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Maxine M. Johnson, 90, of Columbia passed away Monday, April 18, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 23, at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Maxine was born Sept. 17, 1920, in Boone County to Eugene and Willie Mae Baumgartner Merideth, and they preceded her in death.

Maxine enjoyed gardening and working in her yard, but her greatest love was spending time with her family.

She is survived by sons William (Bettie) Johnson of Columbia and Larre (Meredith) Johnson of Lacanada, Calif.; daughter Jody (Jim) Ausmus of Centralia; three brothers; one sister; grandchildren Jay, Jeff, Matt and Casey Johnson amd Jeffrey, Jim and Andy Ausmus; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions can be made to Central Missouri Honor Flight, c/o KOMU-TV, 5550 S. Highway 63, Columbia, Mo., 65201, Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, 121 S. Saint Asaph St., Alexandria, Va., 22314, or a charity of your choice.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Thursday, April 21, 2011

Druly A. “Skip” Meadows, 77, lost his battle with cancer Tuesday, April 19, 2011.

A memorial service will be at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 23, at Memorial Funeral Home. A gathering of family and friends will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home

Skip was born Feb. 11, 1934, to Wanda Orene and William Wallace Meadows in Columbia. He served in the U.S. Naval Armed Forces from 1953 to 1960 during the Korean conflict.

Skip loved antiques. He owned and operated Granny’s Antiques in Rocheport until he retired in 2003. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need and was known around town as “Mr. Fix-it”.

Skip was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Calvin Meadows.

Survivors include daughters Diane Dunn, Lynn Barber, LeAnn Meadows, DeeDee Meadows, Sonia Hall, Ruby Meadows, Robin Counts and Ellen Carter; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Audrey LaVita Gruber.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations be made to a memorial bench honoring the life of Skip or to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be left online at: www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Sunday, April 24, 2011

Phillip Carlton Reiss, 59, of Columbia died peacefully on Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Services will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 1, at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel. A gathering of family and friends will be held an hour before the service.

Phil was born on Aug. 3, 1951, in Moberly to Fred H. and Doris M. Reiss.

He was a graduate of Hickman High School and attended the University of Missouri. After leaving school, he worked in management and sales in Columbia as well as in Tennessee, where he made many good friends.

Phil touched many of the lives of those he came in contact with. Always an easygoing and happy person, Phil loved to be the center of attention, where his greatest joy was making others laugh. He was well known for his wonderful sense of humor, stories and the love of family. He was always smiling, even on his worst days.

He is survived by his children, Amy Lundquist and Jessica Reiss, both of Columbia, and Ben Nanson and wife Betsy of Overland Park, Kan.; a sister, Merrybeth Beahan and husband Al of Columbia; a brother, Fred Reiss and wife Kathy of Urbana; five grandchildren, Adrienne, Brady, Trinity, Zoe, and Bing; and many other family members who will all miss him.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Boone Hospital Center NICU, c/o Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N. Garth Ave., Columbia, Mo. 65202.

Online condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at www.bachyager.com.


Published Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Matthew S. Meyers, 39, of Olathe, Kan., passed away Friday, April 22, 2011.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 30, at Shawnee Mission Unitarian Universalist Church, 7725 W. 87th St., Overland Park, Kan., 66212-1905.

Matt was born Dec. 15, 1971, in Columbia to Thomas B. and Bonnie K. Hopkins Meyers. He married Abby Jean Kepka on March 21, 2009, and she survives.

He grew up in Columbia, graduated from Hickman High School and attended the University of Missouri. He was a member of Shawnee Mission Unitarian Universalist Church.

Survivors include his mother, Kathy McCuistion of Columbia; his father, Thomas B. Meyers and wife Kitty of Atlanta; his wife, Abby, of Olathe, Kan.; a son, Henry David Meyers of Olathe; and a brother, John Meyers of Columbia.

A fund has been established for Henry Meyers’ benefit. Donations may be made payable to Abby Meyers.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Laura Maxine Collins, 79, formerly of Camdenton, passed away Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011, at her new residence in Overland Park, Kan., where she had recently moved.

A graveside memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 30, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.

Maxine was born on Oct. 16, 1931, in McBaine, the second child of the late William R. Moreau and Exie L. Hunt Moreau. After moving to Columbia, she graduated from Hickman High School in 1948. Maxine furthered her education in the secretarial field and held various positions with Columbia businesses and institutions.

She was united in marriage to John A. Collins on April 25, 1951, in Columbia, with whom she shared 58 years. They lived in Columbia, Macon and Cameron before moving to Grinnell, Iowa, where they made their home from 1963 to 1982. During that time, Maxine worked as an executive secretary for Stadiums Unlimited. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi as well as other organizations and clubs in Grinnell.

Maxine and John relocated to Camdenton in 1982 to be closer to family and to escape the harsh Iowa winters. She worked briefly for La-Cam Counseling in Camdenton until 1987, when she joined John in full retirement. In the years thereafter, the home that she loved so much grew in its welcoming beauty, warmth and comfort, structurally refined by Maxine and John’s toiling efforts and deeply enriched by the addition of daughters-in-law, grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

Maxine was a devoted wife and mother who gave of herself endlessly for her family. She saw to it that John and the boys were clean, well-groomed, well-dressed and, most important to her, well-fed. School functions, band concerts, sporting events and graduations filled Maxine’s activity calendar. She especially enjoyed sports of all kinds, whether as a participant or a spectator. Maxine was an accomplished and competitive bowler and golfer, winning tournaments and appearing on television. At home, she was as comfortable with a croquet mallet, badminton racquet, pool cue or table tennis paddle in hand as she was with a spatula or rolling pin. She mastered many card and board games but was at her best at the bridge table. Maxine acquired a taste for travel soon after moving to Camdenton, often accompanying John on his business trips into the Southwestern United States. Later, she ventured with friends or family members to many exciting and memorable local, regional, national and international destinations.

Maxine is survived by three sons, David Collins and wife Nina of Little Rock, Ark., Bruce Collins and wife Jana of Overland Park, and John Collins and wife Patti of Chesterfield; nine grandchildren, Alissa, Lauren and Kristen Collins of Little Rock, Christina Slay and husband Brandon of Colorado Springs, Colo., Samuel, Scott and Blaire Collins of Overland Park, and Jack and Jason Collins of Chesterfield; and one great-grandson, Alex Collins of Overland Park. Maxine anticipated the birth of her first great-granddaughter, Sydney Slay, in May 2011.

Maxine was preceded in death by her loving husband, John; her parents, William R. and Exie L. Moreau; two brothers, Lloyd W. Moreau and Robert N. Moreau; and one sister, Martha A. Plogstead.

Mary Collins Patton, Maxine’s sister-in-law, was her angel on Earth for the last few years. Without Mary’s help and assistance to Maxine during John’s illness and her own, so much would not have been possible, and the family is forever indebted.

The family is deeply thankful for the professional staff of Sunflower Health Care Hospice and the care provided for Maxine in Overland Park. Memorial contributions to the Sunflower Health Care Hospice, 7398 W. 162nd Terrace, Stilwell, Kan., 66085, are encouraged in lieu of flowers. Seen an online obituary, tributes and guest registry at www.johnsoncountychapel.com.


Published Sunday, May 1, 2011

Minnie Colvin Fox, 91, formerly of Columbia, died Friday, April 29, 2011, in St. Charles.

Services will be at noon Monday, May 2, at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. until the time of services.

Mrs. Fox was born July 26, 1919, in Boone County to Edgar and Gladys Crane Colvin. She married J.W. Fox on Sept. 27, 1941, in Boone County. They were married for 58 years until his death in 2000.

She worked at Columbia College and, in retirement, volunteered at Columbia Regional Hospital and was an avid quilter. She was a member of Memorial Baptist Church.

Survivors include two sons, Rodney (Ellen) Fox of Kansas City and Andy (Debbie) Fox of Columbia; a daughter, Jane (Jerry) Smith of St. Charles; a sister, Edna Sublett of Kansas City; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

She also was preceded in death by a sister, Elizabeth Miller.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association, 2400 Bluff Creek Drive, Columbia, Mo. 65201; or to the American Cancer Society, 1900 N. Providence Road, Columbia, Mo., 65202. Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


From the Vineyard Gazette Online, Friday, May 13, 2011

Edith Germane Hurd, 84, Operated Nancy’s Auberge

Edith Marie Germane Hurd, a Vineyard Haven resident and businesswoman since 1990, died on May 4 in Falmouth from pneumonia after earlier surgery for a broken hip. Mrs. Hurd had operated Nancy’s Auberge since 1990.

Edith Hurd Born on August 8, 1926 in Columbia, Mo., to Prof. Charles Germane and Edith Gayton Germane, she began violin lessons at age four and continued to play, especially in chamber groups and school orchestras, all through her years at Stephens College and at the University of Missouri. Her parents were nationally known educators and authors, and Edith graduated in education in 1947, becoming a teacher, first in New Hampton, N.H., and then in White Plains, N.Y.
She married Kenneth Badger Hurd Jr. on August 28, 1948, in Greenwich, Conn. The couple lived in Elmsford, N.Y., in Belvedere, Calif. and in Briarcliff Manor, N.Y.

Edith (also known as Tookie) created a successful family business of Flowers of the Week, during the years that the family lived in Briarcliff Manor. She moved to Vineyard Haven in 1990 and began her bed and breakfast, Nancy’s Auberge, which she operated until 2005. She was a well-known biking enthusiast and enjoyed taking her grandchildren, one by one, to a weekend in New York city to attend the Metropolitan Opera.

During the off-season, she was an adventurous, solo traveler to Shanghai, India, Greece, Russia, and also frequently to her favorite, Paris. A devoted and lifelong fan of classical music, and opera in particular, she managed to hear opera in many places, including Prague, and at La Scala. In her last years, watching sunsets from Owens Park near her home was an inspiration to her. Her love of birds and her care of them as well as of a series of dogs typified her concern for the natural world.

She belonged to the Episcopal Church. She was listed in Who’s Who of American Women, 16th edition. Her college sorority was Kappa Kappa Gamma. She leaves friends in many states and other countries, including those who had stayed with her and had enjoyed her special cuisine and charming hospitality. She brought competence, imagination and artistry to all of her endeavors, and joy to her relationships.

Her memory will be deeply cherished by her family and her circle of friends.

 The memorial will be private. The family suggests contributions in her name be made to organizations that care for animals.
She is survived by four sons: Kenneth Badger Hurd 3rd of Vineyard Haven, Steven Kimball Hurd of Aromas, Calif., Ravi Das Singh Khalsa of Broomfield, Colo., and his wife, Siri Shiva Kaur Khalsa, and Jeffrey Gayton Hurd of Vineyard Haven; and four grandsons: Kenneth Badger Hurd 4th, Samuel Bunting Hurd, Colin Ross Hurd and Hari Parkash Singh Khalsa. She is also survived by her niece, Charlotte Germane of Nevada City, Calif. She was preceded in death by her parents, her older brother, Gayton Germane of Stanford University, and her nephew, Bruce Germane. Other survivors include her Canadian cousins of her mother’s Gayton family.


Published Sunday, May 22, 2011

Janice Spees Ousley, 81, of Columbia died Monday, May 16, 2011.

The celebration of her life will be at 2 p.m. Monday, June 6, at the First Baptist Church, 1112 E. Broadway. Visitation with the family will be at 1 p.m. before the service in the First Baptist Church parlor.

Janice was born June 6, 1929, in Newark, Mo., to Fred and Lola Spees. On June 5, 1949, she married William Horton Ousley, who preceded her in death in 2003. Janice had three sisters, all of whom preceded her in death, Jane Corcoran, Marjorie Scott and Betty Wilson.

Neicie, as most people knew her, attended Hickman High School and Stephens College, graduating with a degree in music. She then went on to the University of Missouri to earn a degree in education. She taught kindergarten for 30 years, retiring in 1998. Neicie was active in the church choir at the First Baptist Church. She also was a member of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution and Missouri Retired Teachers Association.

Neicie’s exuberance for life and teaching will be remembered by all whose lives she touched. Her passion and joy for all things was like no other. She loved playing bridge, botanicals and bird-watching, and she was a loyal Tigers fan.

She will be deeply missed by all of her friends and family — her children, William H. Ousley Jr. of Los Angeles, Brad and Jennifer Weiss of Millersburg, Jeffrey S. Ousley of Centralia and Kathleen Ousley of Santa Barbara, Calif.; and grandchildren Adrian Ousley, Manning Weiss, Adam Ousley, Tony Ousley, Lola Weiss and Henry Kish. Neicie also was awaiting the birth of her first great-grandchild at the end of May.

Memorial contributions and condolences may be made to the Choir Chancel of the First Baptist Church, 1112 E. Broadway, Columbia, Mo., or at www.fbc-columbia.org.


Published Monday, May 23, 2011

Travis Alan Bradley, 35, of Lamine passed away unexpectedly at his home Saturday morning, May 21, 2011.

A memorial service for Travis will be at 3 p.m. Thursday, May 26, at Davis Funeral Chapel in Boonville. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Burial will be at a latter date.

Travis Alan Bradley was born June 24, 1975, in Columbia, the son of John Bradley and Marsha Hatfield. Travis graduated from Hickman High School in Columbia. Travis had soft spot in his heart for any animal, and it showed in his job as an animal control officer for the city of Boonville, where he was very much respected and appreciated for his efforts to care for and find homes for animals. His favorite animal was his dog, Bogart, his constant companion for more than eight years. Travis loved life in general and especially outdoors and nature. His extended family of nieces and nephews also were a very important part of his life.

Mr. Bradley was preceded in death by his father, John Bradley, in 2003.

He is survived by his mother, Marsha, of the home; brothers Troy Bradley and wife Pamela of St. Peters, and Tod Bradley of New Franklin; his nephews, Kyle, Cole and Jared; his nieces, Amanda and Madison Bradley and Ashley Miller; as well as great-nieces Emma and Lily Bradley. His best friend and significant other, Janay Huggins, also survives.

Memorials are suggested to the Boonville Animal Shelter. Friends may register online at www.davisfuneralchapelboonville.com.


Published May 25, 2011 by Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory of Ballwin, Missouri.

Dan A. Rothwell passed away, Monday, May 23, 2011 and and resided in Chesterfield, Missouri.

Beloved husband of Rena Rothwell. Dear father of Brent Rothwell, Bruce (Rebecca) Rothwell, Nancy (Bob) Gober and Sarah (Dan) Walters; grandfather of Trevis (Jennifer) Rothwell; Amanda and Michelle Gober, Jacob and Michaela Walters; loving step-father, brother, uncle and friend.

Dan was the Chesterfield Citizen of the Year 2005.

Services: Funeral service at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Saturday, May 28, 2011, 10:00 a.m. Interment Valhalla Cemetery.

If desired, contributions may be made to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson Research.

Visitation Friday 2-9 p.m. Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.


Published Friday, June 10, 2011

Finley Tate, 84, of Vista, Calif., died at 4:15 p.m. Tuesday, May 24, 2011, at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, Calif.

Funeral service will be at 3 p.m. Monday, June 13, at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. Visitation will be at 2 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. He will be interred immediately following the service at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia, with full military honors.

Mr. Tate was born of Lawrence Edward Tate and Martha Virginia Bartlett on Feb. 21, 1927, in West Palm Beach, Fla.

He served in the U.S. military in both World War II and the Korean conflict. During his service, he was stationed in Europe, Japan and several military bases in the United States.

Mr. Tate studied pre-med at the University of Missouri for three years but was interrupted by his second tour in the military. Upon his return to MU, he completed a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1952. He continued to support MU through the Alumni Association until his death.

Mr. Tate began his personnel management career at Bendix Aviation in Kansas City, working in various management positions for 12 years. He completed his career, working for 25 years as personnel manager for a publishing company, Modern Handcraft Inc. in Kansas City.

Mr. Tate is survived by two daughters, Sharon Bridges of Harrisonville and Linda Verdi of San Diego, Calif.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Zada Lou Walden.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, 383 Main Ave., Fifth Floor, Norwalk, Conn., 06851.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Durward I. Faries Jr.

Faries, Durward I., Jr. On May 25, 2011, Durward I. Faries, Jr., a resident of McLean, Virginia, and Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away.

He leaves behind a beloved wife and numerous family members and friends whose lives he brightened in so many ways.

Durward was an inventor who held numerous patents and a serial entrepreneur who founded and ran a number of successful companies in a variety of fields.

Services: A public memorial celebration of Durward's life will be held from 2 - 4 p.m. on Sat., June 18, 2011, at the St. Louis Renaissance Airport Hotel, 9801 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis, MO.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association , American Cancer Society , the ASPCA, Alzheimer's Association , or the ATCA Rescue & Adoption Committee (Airedale Terrier Rescue).


Published Friday, May 27, 2011

Judy Maye Rippeto Perkins, 69, of Columbia passed away on Thursday, May 26, 2011, surrounded by her loving family.

A graveside memorial service and burial will take place at 11 a.m. Sunday, June 12, at Goshen Baptist Church in Wilton.

Judy was born on Nov. 21, 1942, to Willie and Chloe Crane Rippeto in Hartsburg. She married Clarence Roy Perkins on Sept. 2, 1960, in Columbia, and together they had two children, six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Judy grew up in Columbia and graduated in 1960 from Hickman High School. She was a medical transcriptionist for more than 40 years. Judy was a dedicated and valued long-term employee with several companies and always went above and beyond to do the best work possible.

Judy not only took her job seriously, she was a dedicated and loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and daughter. She was loyal and caring toward her many devoted friends. Judy will always be remembered by her ready smile and loving heart. She loved the Southwest and lived for several years in Farmington, N.M., and, later, in New Braunfels, Texas, before moving back home to Columbia in 2010.

She is survived by daughter Christine Perkins-Heuer, husband Wayne and sons Cory and Michael of Columbia; daughter Shelly Herriford and children Malcolm, Rashelle, Whitney and Devon of Boonville; brother Archie Rippeto and wife Doris of Arcadia, Fla.; brother Thomas Rippeto and wife Ellen of Columbia; sister Patricia Rippeto Pafford and husband Bill of New Braunfels; and sister Glenda Rippeto Moss and husband Jerry of Wimberly, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Chloe Crane Rippeto, and brother Donald Rippeto.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society and the Central Missouri Humane Society.

Online condolences may be extended to Judy’s family at www.heartlandcremation.com.


Provided by family, In Memory of Inez E Connor (April 1, 2012)
January 4, 1933 - May 30, 2011

Obituary
Connor, Inez of Redington Shores, FL, died on Memorial Day, May 30, 2011 in her sleep of heart disease. She was preceded in death by Joseph, her husband of 54 years. The couple moved to Florida in 1996 after retirement as a public affairs officer for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in Washington, DC.

During her 20-year career with the Service, she was responsible for media and public affairs on endangered species such as the bald eagle, California condor, and whooping cranes; restoration of Wild Atlantic salmon and striped bass, the 500+ units of the National Wildlife Refuge System, and other national conservation issues. During her tenure, she also served for nine year as assistant regional director for public affairs for the 13-state northeast region, headquartered at the time in Boston. She received many honors and awards, including selection as one of the ten most outstanding employees nationwide.
Earlier, she earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland, worked for the National Eye Institute (NIH), for members of Congress and Democratic National Committee in Washington, DC. She lived in the Washington suburbs in Bowie and New Carrollton. She was born in Columbia, MO.

After retirement, she was active in the Shore Mariner Condominium Association, serving as president and vice president of the Board of Directors, social chair, and wrote and produced its newsletter and a video on the condo's 35-year history. As a volunteer for the Town of Redington Shores, she wrote and produced the Town's color brochure.

She is survived by two sons, Drew of Cooper City, FL and Neal of Owings, MD; four grandchildren: Nathan and Joseph of Cooper City, and Jason and Stephanie and great-grandson, Jordan, all of Owings. Another granddaughter, Kristen, preceded her in death. Private burial will be in Belle Center, OH, her late husband's hometown.


Published Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Mary Katherine Scott, 93, of Sturgeon passed away Monday, June 20, 2011, at her home.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 25, at Locust Grove United Methodist Church, 2600 N. Locust Grove Church Road, in Columbia. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until the time of service at the church.

Mary Katherine Scott was born May 28, 1918, in Columbia, the daughter of Millard Odell and Cora Bell Tapp Lane.

She married William A. Scott in 1976 in Sturgeon, and he preceded her in death on Aug. 11, 2000.

She was a statistical clerk for the U.S. Crop and Livestock Reporting Service in Columbia for 28 years before retiring in 1976.

She enjoyed gardening and quilting. She was the organist for Locust Grove United Methodist Church for 29 years.

Survivors include a grandson, James Ravenscraft III; a great-granddaughter, Michaela; a son, Gary and wife Sally Scott; granddaughters Lisa and Kristi; stepdaughters, Patsy Morris, Peggy Swope and Laura Bledsoe; a sister, Dell Cunningham; and a daughter-in-law, Beverly Foley.

She also was preceded in death by a son, James E. Ravenscraft Jr.

Memorial contributions may be made to Locust Grove United Methodist Church, 2600 N. Locust Grove Church Road, Columbia, Mo., 65202.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.


Published Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Warren Preston Sights III, 54, of Columbia passed away Monday, June 13, 2011, at his home after a yearlong battle with esophageal cancer.

Memorial graveside services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 15, at Columbia Cemetery.
Mr. Sights was born April 24, 1957, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy Z. Huettl; his daughter, Tory; his mother, Jean H. Sights; his brother, Ian K. Sights; and his two sisters, Galen S. Mathews and Ann S. Leffard.
He is preceded in death by his father, Warren Preston Sights Jr.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Special Olympics of Missouri, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or the American Cancer Society.
Expressions of sympathy may be extended to Preston’s family at www.heartlandcremation.com.


Published Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Thomas Harold Richardson, 55, of Columbia passed away Friday, June 24, 2011.

A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, July 1, at Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends and family will gather for a visitation from 10 a.m. until service time at Memorial Funeral Home.

He was born July 24, 1955, in Columbia, the son of Harold and Faye Valentine Richardson.

Tom was a 1973 graduate of Hickman High School and a 1978 graduate of Columbia College.

He completed the Journeyman electrical program and graduated in 1982.

He was a member of IBEW-NECA and worked for Richardson Electric for many years.

Survivors include his mother, Faye Richardson; his son, Jordan Richardson; his grandchildren, Domenic Richardson, Donovan Richardson and Brayden Matheney; his sisters, Cheri Richardson and Ellen Bender and her husband, Donnie; and his nephew, James Harold Bender.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harold R. Richardson.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Carol Jean Conley, 51, departed this life to be with the Lord on Monday, June 27, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 30, at Memorial Funeral Home. A visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

She was born May 16, 1960, in Columbia to Clarence S. Conley and June D. Barnes Conley.

Carol was a lifelong resident of Columbia. She graduated from Hickman High School in 1978. She attended the University of Missouri and received a degree in medical technology. Carol was employed by University Hospital and Clinics for more than 25 years.

She was a member of Forum Boulevard Christian Church, where she was active in several ministries.

She is survived by her mother, June D. Conley of Columbia; brother Brent Conley and wife Kay and sons Kyle and Michael of Carnation, Wash.; sister Diane Hargrave and husband Ryan and sons Will and Benjamin of Maryville; brother Kevin Conley of Kansas City; and several aunts, uncles and good friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Clarence Conley; paternal grandparents Frank C. and Mary S. Yancey Conley; maternal grandparents William Floyd and Ruth P. Hendricks Barnes; and aunt Edna Conley.

Memorial donations may be made to Forum Boulevard Christian Church, 3900 Forum Blvd., Columbia, Mo., 65203.

Condolences may be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published in Kansas City Star on July 2, 2011
THONETTA LORENE "TONI" GABRIEL

Toni Gabriel passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday, July 1st at 9:05am at St Mary's Hospital in Blue Springs, MO.

Toni was born June 30, 1949 and was adopted into the family of Marian and Floyd Sloan. She grew up in Columbia, Missouri and graduated from Hickman High School in 1967.

Toni married Dennis Gabriel in 1969 and they have two sons, Scot and Van.

She graduated from Stephens College with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in English and Theatre.

Toni is survived by her loving husband Dennis, her son Scot, her son Van and daughter-in-law Sara, and her three granddaughters, Katlin, Norah and Kaiya. She dearly loved her time spent with her granddaughters. Her loving and giving influence will be dearly missed.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 3 at 3pm at Lee's Summit Community of Christ Church on Tudor Road.


Published Thursday, June 30, 2011

John Francis “Papa Smurf” Pike, 71, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, June 28, 2011.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 2, at Memorial Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at 1 p.m.

John was born April 1, 1940, in St. Louis, the son of the late Francis and Winnie Pike. John was raised in Columbia and lived here until his death.

John was employed by Best Western Columbia Inn for more than 30 years. He was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. John was a caring man, deep in faith with a heart of gold. He loved his cats and cars. Most of all, John was devoted to his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; dear sister Marilyn (John) Gould of St. Louis; nieces Anne Christina, Betsy, Kelsey and Zakiyyah, all of St. Louis; stepmother Clara Pike of Columbia; two stepsisters, Cheryl Fortuna of Rochester, N.Y., and Rachelle Henne of Houston, Texas; stepbrother Ray Wiedmeyer of Columbia; aunt Emma Jo Mudd of Monroe City; uncle and aunt Don and Betty Pike of Washington, Mo.; two sisters-in-law, Val (George) Rufencht of Scott City, Kan., and Joanne Humphrey of Columbia; brother-in-law Bill (Bert) Muenks of Tell City, Ind.; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are appreciated to the American Cancer Society, the Humane Society or charity of donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be left at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Thursday, July 7, 2011

David Alan Smith, 49, of Columbia passed away Monday, July 4, 2011, at his home.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 9, at First Assembly of God Church in Columbia.

David was born Dec. 13, 1961, in Columbia to George and Pauline Kopesky Smith, and they preceded him in death.

He grew up in the Harrisburg area and was a 1979 graduate of Hickman High School in Columbia.

David attended Christian Chapel and enjoyed playing bluegrass music.

David is survived by brothers Danny Smith of Boonville, George (Maria) Smith of Florissant and William Smith Ohm of San Pedro, Calif.; and sisters Kathy Naumann and husband John McGrath of Colorado and Cheryl (Onival) Sanchez of Colorado.

He also was preceded in death by brother Russell Long; and sister Theresa Darnell.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Danny Smith, c/o Parker Funeral Service, 22 N. Tenth St., Columbia, Mo., 65201.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Sunday, July 10, 2011

William Grey Bell, 23, of Columbia passed away Friday, July 8, 2011.

Memorial services will be at noon Tuesday, July 12, at First Presbyterian Church in Columbia. A gathering for family and friends will be from 10 a.m. until time of services at the church.

William was born on June 15, 1988, in St. Joseph to Thomas and Donna Degener Bell. He was a 2007 graduate of Hickman High School, where he played lacrosse. He had been attending Columbia College and was going to graduate in 2012.

William was a member of First Presbyterian Church, where he had been active in the youth group, and he enjoyed playing baseball and following the St. Louis Cardinals.

Along with his father, William enjoyed studying history and visiting Civil War sites and other museums.

He is survived by his parents; sister Katherine Bell; grandfathers Cecil Bell and Donald Degener, all of Columbia; along with many other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by grandmothers Oleatha Bell and Clara Degener.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to First Presbyterian Church, 16 Hitt St., Columbia, Mo., 65201.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Monday, July 11, 2011

James Otis Harrison, 70, of Columbia died Friday, July 8, 2011, at University Hospital.

Friends will be received from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 13, at Millard Family Funeral Home.

Mr. Harrison was born on July 6, 1941, to Otis Harrison and Melba Craighead Harrison in Fulton.

Jim was a retired postal carrier with the United States Postal Service. He was a proud member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, Elijah Gates Camp No. 570. He was a member of Hallsville Baptist Church.

Mr. Harrison will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his mother, Melba Harrison; one son, James Todd Harrison; three daughters: Gigi, Nicole and Gabrielle Harrison; and one granddaughter, Cassie Nichols.

He was preceded in death by his father, Otis Harrison

Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the direction of Millard Family Funeral Home, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, Mo., 65203.

Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millard familychapels.com.


Published Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Ruby M. Stone, 84, a lifelong resident of Columbia, died Friday, July 8, 2011.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 16, at Parker Funeral Service, 22 N. Tenth St. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Ruby was born Aug. 12, 1926, in Boone County to Robert J. and Lucille Vanlandingham Proctor.

She graduated from Hickman High School in 1944, and on March 11, 1946, she married Raymond Stone in San Diego.

Ruby loved her job with the University of Missouri Athletic Ticket Department, where she worked for 25 years. Everyone enjoyed the stories she told about her work at the university. Ruby loved her co-workers and working with the public.

She retired in 1991.

Ruby helped those in need at every opportunity. She did volunteer work for many organizations, with her most recent being at the Ellis Fischel Cancer Center.

Ruby had many close friends who will miss her greatly. She was always ready to go on a day trip, go for an evening show at the Lyceum Theatre or just have lunch. She was a good judge of character, always meant what she said and never complained about unimportant things.

Ruby is survived by three nephews, Bill Bruenig of Addison, Texas, Martin L. Bruenig of Arlington, Texas, and Robert Bruenig of Arlington, Texas; and a niece, Julie Kauffmann of St. Louis.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Stone; and a sister, Ruth Bruenig.

Memorials may be given to MU Sinclair School of Nursing, Office of Development, S219 School of Nursing, Columbia, Mo., 65211, her sister Ruth’s alma mater.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Dr. James E. Steffan, 85, of Columbia passed away Monday, July 11, 2011, at the Parkside Nursing Home.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 14, at the Greening-Eagan-Hayes Funeral Home in Shelbina. Burial will be in Shelbina Cemetery. Brother John Edwards will officiate. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

He was born July 14, 1925, in Shelbina, the son of Frederick J. and Angela Lebo Steffan.

In 1953, he was united in marriage to Ann Duggan. She preceded him in death.

Dr. Steffan was a graduate of Hickman High School in Columbia, the University of Missouri and Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Columbia. Dr. Steffan practiced medicine for 15 years in Ashland and for 10 years at the Fulton State Hospital. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was a member of the Moolah Shrine in St. Louis and enjoyed golfing, fishing and MU sporting events.

Dr. Steffan is survived by one son, James E. Steffan II of Columbia.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; one daughter, Rebecca Ann Steffan; and one brother, Frederick Steffan Jr. Memorials are suggested to General Scholarship Fund at A.T. Still University.


Published Monday, July 18, 2011

Lola Stewart Brooks, 89, of Columbia passed away Saturday, July 16, 2011, at University Hospital.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 21, at Parker Funeral Service. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Lola was born Sept. 22, 1921, in Boone County to Wright and Ivy Weaver Stewart.

She married James W. Brooks in 1945, and he preceded her in death July 17, 1976.

Lola lived her entire life in Boone County. She graduated from Hickman High School in 1939. She and her husband owned the log cabin at 809 N. West Boulevard, which was open to the public until two years ago.

She was an avid quilter and personally hand-quilted more than 150 quilts. She was an antique collector throughout her life.

Survivors include a son, Terry Lee Brooks of Rocheport; a daughter, Rita Bishop and husband Gary of Reno, Nev.; a granddaughter, Brooke McLoughlin and husband Shane of Reno, Nev.; two great-grandchildren, Ayden Lampkins of Hallsville and Samantha Leigh McLoughlin of Reno, Nev.; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; an infant daughter; and a sister, Gladys.

Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.
Published Monday, July 18, 2011

Marvin “Dean” Benthall, 52, of Columbia passed away Saturday, July 16, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 21, at Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. A visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Memorial Funeral Home.

He was born March 7, 1959, in St. Louis, the son of Marvin E. Benthall and Carylon White Benthall. He was united in marriage to Lori Zager on Oct. 24, 1985.

Dean attended Hickman High School, and there he was an All-State football player. He graduated in 1977. He was a real estate developer and built six area hotels. Dean was a huge fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and Mizzou Tigers. He loved boating at the Lake of the Ozarks and always lived life to the fullest. Dean was a very outgoing, loving and giving individual. He was very proud of his daughters, who are both excellent college students. Dean’s greatest love was his family, and he will be dearly missed by all.

Dean is survived by his wife, Lori Benthall; parents Marvin E. and Carylon Benthall; daughters Katie Benthall and Kelsey Benthall; brother Dan Benthall and wife Cheryl; uncle and aunt Dwayne and Loretta White; and nieces and nephews Samantha, Kyle, Stephanie, Megan, Matthew, Michael and Andrew.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Katie & Kelsey Benthall’s College Education Fund, c/o Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W., Columbia, Mo., 65202.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Published Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Danny Joe Rector, 66, of Columbia passed away Sunday, July 17, 2011.

Services for family and friends will be at a later date.

Danny was born Dec. 24, 1944, in Columbia to Woodrow Wilson and Marjorie Fern Murray Rector. He married Linda Holton on Aug. 6, 1966, and she survives.

Danny was a woodworker and gardener and worked as a carpenter for many years. He enjoyed spending time with his grandsons.

Survivors include two sons, Brian Scott Rector and Timothy Wayne Rector, both of Columbia; a sister, Kathy Diane Little and husband John of Boonville; and two grandchildren, Justin and Nathan Rector.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials may be given to Columbia Second Chance Animal Sanctuary.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.
Published Thursday, July 28, 2011

Martha Lou Hathman, 72, of Columbia passed away Monday, July 25, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, July 29, at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at Memorial Funeral Home.

Martha was born Nov. 15, 1938, to Robert and Pearl Martin Snodgrass.

She graduated from Hickman High School, class of 1956.

Martha Lou was formerly married to Willard Dean Hathman on Feb. 16, 1957, at Bethany Baptist Church in Columbia. She was retired and in recent years was a dealer at Itchy’s Flea Market.

She is survived by one daughter, Connie Hathman of Chickasha, Okla.; one son, Scott Hathman and wife Theresa of Columbia; three grandchildren, Misty McKee and husband Charles, Maxina Rosas and husband Roberto and James Dean Hathman; three special great-grandchildren, Olivia, Mikel and Jyanelli; one sister, Judy Blacklock and husband Ron of Columbia; nephews Gary and Steve; and nieces Kelly, Carla and Lou Ann.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents; and two sisters, Patricia Snodgrass and Jackie Baugh.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Published Saturday, July 30, 2011

Melvin J. Adams, 60, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, July 27, 2011.

A memorial gathering will be from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 1, at Memorial Funeral Home.

Melvin was born Oct. 12, 1950, in McAllen, Texas, to Melvin Ray and Florence Maxine Adams. Melvin was a simple man who loved the outdoors; he was a keen fisherman and hunter.

He is survived by one son, Jon Adams (Jennifer) of Fulton; and two brothers, Bob Conner (Mary Jane) of Kansas City and Paul Adams of Brunswick.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Condolences may be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Friday, July 29, 2011

Marvin Allen Reeder, 78, of Columbia died Wednesday, July 27, 2011, at Columbia Healthcare.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 1, at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. A visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

He was born April 24, 1933, in Columbia, the only child of Allen Benton and Myrtle Inease Sutton Reeder. He was united in marriage to Shirley McCallister on June 17, 1978.

Mr. Reeder graduated from Hickman High School in 1951. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Columbia and the American Legion 424. Mr. Reeder served as president of the Sunrise Optimist Club from 1986-1987. He was a member of the Columbia Elks Lodge 594, where he served as exalted ruler and state chancellor.

As the owner of a Sinclair Station in downtown Columbia, Mr. Reeder became involved in racing. He had several race cars, which were driven by Walter Sorrels. Mr. Reeder retired from Sorrels Auto Parts after 30 years. He was an avid NASCAR fan.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley Reeder of Columbia; daughter Debra Ann of Centralia; son David Allen and wife Brenda of Hartsburg; stepdaughter Ann Powell and husband Larry of Republic; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one grandson; and three great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Elks Benevolent Fund, First Presbyterian Church of Columbia or Coyote Hill, c/o Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W., Columbia, Mo., 65202.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Monday, August 1, 2011

Janet McMickle Roddy, 99, of Columbia passed away Sunday, July 31, 2011, at The Bluffs.

Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2, at Midway Locust Grove Church Cemetery.

Janet was born July 3, 1912, to Charlie Frank and Mary Miller Moore of Memphis, Mo. The Moore family later moved to Columbia, where Janet graduated from Hickman High School.

Janet is survived by a son, John William McMickle and wife Donna of Columbia; and by several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John B. McMickle, and later by her second husband, William Roddy. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Jim Moore, Morris Moore, Sam Moore, Frank Moore and John Moore; and a sister, Helen Wiggins.

Memorials can be made to The American Cancer Society, the American Cancer Association or to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be left for the family at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.

 


Published Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Passed away Sunday, July 31, 2011, at the University Medical Center in El Paso, Texas.

Tamara Knepp Poore Romero, 49, of Belen, N.M., passed away Sunday, July 31, 2011, at the University Medical Center in El Paso, Texas, of injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5, at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until time of the service.

Tamara Kay was born Jan. 8, 1962, in Louisiana, Mo., to Jane Kay and Stan Knepp. She attended Louisiana Primary School. Her family moved to Columbia in 1968. Upon her mother

Tammy went to Blue Ridge Elementary, Oakland Junior High, graduated from Hickman High with the class of 1980 and attended Columbia College. Tammy was the administrative assistant for acting warden Joseph Garcia for the State of New Mexico Department of Corrections in Los Lunas, N.M., a position she held for many years.

Tammy married Bradley Reida, and to this union two children were born, Carl James

In addition to her parents, Donald Lee and Jane Kay Foland Poore, survivors include Carl

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Jane (Smithson) and Kelso Foland and Lora Lee (Dysart) and Tom Poore and Glennard Knepp.

Memorial contributions are suggested to charity of donor.

Online condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at www.bachyager.com.


Published Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Margaret Kathryn Wade, 95, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, at Parker Funeral Service. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Margaret was born Aug. 9, 1915, in Columbia to Grover Cleveland and Minnie Gertrude Jacobs Via. She married Merrell O. Wade on Oct. 10, 1936, and he preceded her in death in March 1979.

She attended Warren School and graduated from Hickman High School. She attended Kirksville Teachers College and graduated from the University of Missouri with a bachelor

She taught for 24 years for rural schools and was principal at Rock Bridge Elementary School from 1957 to 1964. She was an elementary teacher for Columbia Public Schools and retired after 40 years in 1976. She was a member of Missouri Retired Teachers Association, several Columbia Teachers Associations, Oakland Senior Center and Wilkes Boulevard United Methodist Church.

Survivors include a sister, Mary Louise Brandt of Tucson, Ariz.; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; four sisters; a brother; and a son.

Memorials may be given to Wilkes Boulevard United Methodist Church or Oakland Senior Center.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.

 


Published Sunday, August 7, 2011

Mary Ella Cathey, 87, of Columbia passed away Thursday, Aug. 4, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, at First Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Monday at the church. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Mary was born July 29, 1924, in Columbia to Virgil Omar and Lovey M. Toalson Todd.
She married Harry R. Cathey on Jan. 16, 1945, and he survives.

She graduated from Hickman High School and attended Stephens College.

Mary worked as a secretary for MFA and GTE and retired from Columbia Public Schools.

Mary was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church, a Boone County Hospital Pink Lady volunteer, and a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Fabulous 50’s Club.

Survivors include her husband, Harry, of Columbia; a son, Steven R. Cathey of Columbia; a daughter, Carole Williamson and husband Bruce of Bridgeton; two brothers, Jesse Todd of Columbia and Nelson Todd of San Antonio; two grandchildren, Ashley Burke and husband Matt and Drew Williamson; and one great-grandchild, Emily Burke.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Virgil Todd and Joe Todd.

Memorials may be given to First Baptist Church.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Sunday, August 7, 2011

Janet Belle Moore, 66, of Columbia passed away Friday, Aug. 5, 2011.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 8, at Midway Locust Grove United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time or service.

Janet Belle Keene was born April 2, 1945, the daughter of Edmond B. and Lucille S. Davis Keene.

She married Bob Moore on June 5, 1965, in Columbia.

Jan was a member of Midway Locust UMC. Being a homemaker the majority of her life, she enjoyed spending time with her family, working in crafts, scrapbooking and reading.

Survivors include her husband, Bob; one son, Jason Moore (wife Rachel); one daughter, Shari Thomas (husband Mike); one brother, Kenneth Keene (wife Jo); and three grandchildren, Mackenzie, Shelby and Bailey.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and one son, Shannon Robert in 1971.

Memorial contributions may be made to Coyote Hills Children’s Home, 9515 Coyote Hill Road, Harrisburg, Mo., 65256, or Midway Locust Church, 2600 N. Locust Grove Church Road, Columbia, Mo., 65202, or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.


Published Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Carl Lackland Brady, 96, of Columbia passed away Monday, Aug. 8, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Graveside services will be at noon Thursday, Aug. 11, at Columbia Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to noon Thursday at Parker Funeral Service.

Carl was born March 17, 1915, in Columbia to Charles Joshua and Cecilia Robben Brady.

He married Frances Louise Turner on July 6, 1935, and she preceded him in death in October 2006.

He graduated from Hickman High School in 1933. He worked with his brothers, Fred and Don, starting Brady’s Paint & Glass Co. Throughout his life, he supported civic, community and church organizations, including the Columbia City Council, The Odd Fellows and Wilkes Boulevard United Methodist Church.

Survivors include a brother, Dale Brady of Fulton; a son, Steven Brady of Arlington, Va.; daughter-in-law Carol Brady of Columbia; grandchildren Dan Davis, Tim Davis, Scott Hill, Robbin Hansen and Amy Garrison; and numerous great-grandchildren, Chase, Kelsey and Dallas Davis, Kayla, Caine and Colton Hill, and Jordan Snyder.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a sister, two brothers and a son.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to Wilkes Boulevard United Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Carolyn June Carruth, 76, went to be with her Lord and Savior Saturday, Aug. 6, 2011.

A celebration of Carolyn’s life will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20, at Calvary Baptist Church, with Brother Dave Schawo officiating.

Carolyn was born Oct. 26, 1934, to Aubrey “Babe” and Bufa Forsee Carruth.

She graduated from Hickman High School in 1952.

She loved animals of all kinds and started raising and showing American Saddlebred horses and later AKC-registered pugs, producing many champions from her bloodlines.

She was raised and baptized at Wilkes Boulevard Methodist Church, where she taught children’s Sunday school. In 1995, she joined Midway Heights Baptist Church by baptism. She later joined Calvary Baptist Church.

She loved to sing in her church choirs and wrote poetry all her life. She was a published poet and wrote some children’s books.

She was president of the Evergreens Senior Adult Ministry and secretary and treasurer of Vivien Craven Mission Group at Calvary Baptist.

She was a member of Landers Moose Lodge in California and past senior regent. She worked at McDonnell-Douglas, now Boeing, in Columbia and California; she took early retirement from the University of Missouri and then worked for the Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri.

She enjoyed a Dixie Cream doughnut with her coffee every morning and could eat a steak taco for dinner every night at Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, if she could get away with it.

Carolyn is survived by her niece, Linda LaVere; great-nephews Deven and Justin LaVere of Columbia; nephew Scott Carruth of Quincy; extended family members and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Bobby Carruth.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Shepherd’s Basket Food Pantry c/o Calvary Baptist Church, 606 Ridgeway Ave.

Expressions of sympathy may be extended to Carolyn’s family at www.heartlandcremation.com.


Published Thursday, August 11, 2011

Alice Elizabeth West, 63, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2011.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, at Parker Funeral Service. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Alice was born June 17, 1948, in Belleville, Ill., to Robert A. and Mary Louise Becherer Thompson.

She married Fred W. West on July 1, 1995, in Rocheport, and he survives.

Alice graduated from Hickman High School in 1966.

She attended Jefferson Community College in Hillsboro for two years.

She worked for Consolidated Public Water for 26 years as a clerk, and she served as treasurer for the Board of Directors for 21 years, retiring on June 30, 2011.

Alice loved to camp and was a member of “Wings Around Tiger Town Camping Club.”

Survivors include her husband, Fred, of Columbia; a son, Joseph M. Lewis of Colorado Springs, Colo.; a daughter, Libby M. Mason and husband Scott of Virginia Beach, Va.; and two grandchildren.

Memorials may be given to Boone Hospital Hospice.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Thursday, August 11, 2011

Christy M. Welliver, 59, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2011.

A memorial service will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14, at Calvary Episcopal Church.

Christy was born April 9, 1952, in Columbia to Warren and Ruth Galey Welliver.

Throughout her life, Christy was involved in myriad organizations. She volunteered at the MS Institute of the University of Missouri, was a member of PedNet Coalition, as well as ACLU, NW Rotary and Family Counseling Services.

Christy was on the Transportation Committee and participated in Mule Skinners, along with various other civic and philanthropic organizations.

Survivors include her mother, Ruth, of Columbia; and sister Gale Stone and brother-in-law Bill Stone of Frontenac.

She was preceded in death by her father, Warren; and sister Carla Stone.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated to the Christy Welliver Scholarship Fund at the University of Missouri MS Institute, Calvary Episcopal Church, Unity Church or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be left at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Sunday, August 14, 2011

June Ridgway Tull died peacefully in her sleep on Friday, Aug. 12, 2011.

Following private graveside services, a memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 17, at Missouri United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Amy Gearhart officiating. A gathering of family and friends in the church parlor will follow services. Visitation will be from 5 until 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 16, at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel.

June Ridgway Tull was born Feb. 7, 1921, to F.G. and Ethel Gray Ridgway in Columbia, the second-born of a set of identical twins. Her twin sister, Jane R. Edwards, preceded her in death.

June attended Benton Elementary School, Jefferson Junior High School and Hickman High School, graduating in 1939. She attended the University of Missouri and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She worked throughout her college years at the MU Registrar’s Office.

Upon graduation from the University of Missouri, June worked at MFA Inc. and helped with the opening of the MFA Insurance Co. June later accepted a position as secretary to the comptroller at Stephens College.

June met her future husband, J. Robert “Bob” Tull, after World War II, and they were married on June 22, 1947, at Missouri United Methodist Church in Columbia. In 1950, her husband started his own law practice, where June worked as a secretary.

June gave birth to twin daughters, Sally Jane and Susan June, on Aug. 25, 1952, in Columbia. She is survived by her daughters and their husbands, Sally and Clay S. Logan of Louisiana, Mo., and Susan and Alan R. Wessler of Columbia; grandsons, John Stark Logan, Robert Alan “Bob” Wessler and wife Robyn, and Brett Daniel Wessler and wife Kate; and a nephew, Bryce R. Edwards and wife Lisa of Columbia.

June was a member of the American Legion and Chapter GK of P.E.O. She was active as a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, in the Grant Elementary School PTA — serving as president, and in the Women’s Democratic Club and Grace Circle of Kings Daughters. She was a core leader of Community Bible Study.

June was a devoted wife and mother, involving herself in all aspects of her husband’s and daughters’ lives. When her husband was stricken with rheumatoid arthritis in 1964, June and Bob both accepted the illness with grace and determination. Always with a smile on his face and kind words for those around him, Bob needed and accepted June’s help when his mobility became compromised. Bob practiced law until his death in February 1997; it was with June’s devotion that he was able to do so.

June was a gracious, kind and talented person who touched the lives of those around her. A stay-at-home mom, she was everyone’s ‘other mother’ and invested her time and energy in raising not only her daughters, but their friends as well. June lived an active and full life, enriched by her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Missouri United Methodist Church, The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri, Salvation Army, or Community Bible Study, c/o Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N. Garth Ave., Columbia, Mo. 65202.

Online condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at www.bachyager.com.


Published in San Diego Union-Tribune on August 21, 2011


WHITWORTH, LLOYD March 27, 1924 to August 15, 2011

"Whit", as his friends called him, had a very full, loving life and passed peacefully. A husband, father, grandfather and all-around family man; Whit leaves behind his loving wife Johanna; their three daughters, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Born and raised in Columbia, Missouri, Whit grew up with motorcycles in his blood. He was riding motorcycles by the age of 8. Whit's love of racing motorcycles took him across Michigan as both crew and racer.

He joined the Army, served during World War II and received the WWII Victory Medal as a member of the 6th Engineer Combat Battalion. After his Army days, he found his way to San Diego where he met his wife of 59 years. He sold his motorcycle and hung up his racing digs to welcome his first daughter to the world with a brand new ride - a baby carriage, but he never lost his love of riding.

Whit's engineering and electrical talents led him to become an electrical contractor, owning and operating Whit Electric for over 30 years. When he retired, Whit still tinkered with many projects.

He was well known for his love of a strongly-brewed cup of black coffee and chatting about everything. He cherished his family and held them always close to his heart.

An avid antique motorcycle and car buff, Whit held numerous positions with both national and local chapters of the Antique Automobile Club of America, Lincoln Continental Owners Club and the Antique Motorcycle Club of America. Whit's antique restorations of both cars and motorcycles were well lauded. He had many prized vehicles in his collection.

Whit also served as President of the Association of California Car Clubs where he was instrumental in the creation of the California Historical Vehicle license plate program.

Viewing: Tuesday, August 23, 2011 from 4 to 7 p.m.; Rosary 7 p.m. at Featheringill Mortuary, 6322 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego. Funeral Mass: Wednesday, August 24, 2011, 11 a.m. St Francis Chapel of the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala, 10818 San Diego Mission Road, San Diego. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Whit to San Diego Rescue Mission, 619-687-3720 or sdrminfo@sdrescue.org


Published Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Joseph Rudy Wheeler, 19, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011.

Memorial services will be at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 19, at Memorial Funeral Home. A visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Memorial Funeral Home.

Joseph was born July 8, 1992, in Columbia to Lyle and Jeanne Townsend Wheeler. He graduated from Hickman High School with the Class of 2011. Joe enjoyed baseball, basketball and football. He also was an avid fisherman and hunter. He treasured spending time with his brothers, family and friends.

Joe is survived by his parents; two brothers, Mike Wheeler and his fiancée, Hattie Wellington, of Columbia and Jon Wheeler of Columbia; a grandfather, Chuck Townsend of Columbia; three uncles, David Townsend and wife Kerry of Columbia, Robert Wheeler of Independence and Mike Wheeler of Bates City; two aunts, Misty Langston and husband Glenn of Boonville and Patricia Wheeler of Missouri; and four cousins, Sarah and Jodie Langston and Blair and Charlie Townsend.

Joe was preceded in death by grandparents Lloyd and Marcille Wheeler; and grandmother Shirley Townsend.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Missouri Department of Conservation or Daniel Boone Little League.

Tributes can be left online at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Thursday, August 18, 2011

Smiley C. Herrin Jr., 94, of Springfield died Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2011, at St. John’s Mercy Villa in Springfield.

Graveside services will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 20, at Memorial Park Cemetery

He was born April 12, 1917, in Purcell, Okla.

He lived his life as a resident of Missouri after his family moved from Oklahoma in 1926. Smiley graduated from Jefferson Junior High School in 1928 and from Columbia Hickman High School in 1932. He graduated from the University of Missouri with a bachelor’s degree in education in 1939. He then taught high school science and general mathematics for a year in Gideon. In 1940, he moved back to Columbia and began working at the post office. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army infantry in the Philippines. After his discharge, he returned to his job at the post office, where he became the Columbia regional postmaster, a position he held from 1968 until his retirement in 1978.

In 1938, Smiley married Evelyn Thurston and they had three daughters, Ann, Jane, and Lea. Evelyn preceded him in death in 1987. In 1989, he married Cleo Yowell Smith, and she preceded him in death in 2004.

He is survived by his three daughters and their husbands, Ann and Daryl Hartley of Union, Janie and Hugh Lundman of Springfield, and Lea and Dennis Marienfeld of Columbia and Hayward, Wis.; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his sister, IdaBelle Malewski of Irving, Texas; and several nieces and nephews.

Smiley was a long time member of First Christian Church in Columbia. He also was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans and Rotary Club, and was active in many area bands and orchestras.

The family wishes to thank the staff at St. John’s Mercy Villa for their loving, compassionate care given to their father during the last several years.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations may be made to Haven of the Ozarks Animal Sanctuary, 9617 Farm Road 2190, Washburn, Mo., 65772.

Tributes can be left online at  www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Thursday, August 18, 2011

Patsy Ruth Corley, 76, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011.

A funeral service will be at noon Friday, Aug. 19, at Parkade Baptist Church with burial following at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of the service Friday at the church.

She was born on Feb. 4, 1935, in Columbia, the daughter of the late James K. and Effie Jeanette Jacobs Bozarth.

Patsy was a 1953 graduate of Hickman High School.

On June 13, 1954, she was united in marriage to John Corley, and they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage. John served in the U.S. Air Force, which took them all over the country.

In 1974, John retired after 20 years of service, and they moved back to Columbia to be near family. Patsy made her profession of faith in Christ in 1968 in Fort Worth, Texas. She was a member of Parkade Baptist Church.

Patsy was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed traveling all over the United States with her husband. She was a great cook and baker. She had a captivating smile and was always happy to see you. She will be greatly missed by her family, but they will always cherish the wonderful memories she leaves behind.

Patsy is survived by her husband, John; daughter Karen Corley Minor of Columbia; son John David Corley and wife Melissa Annette of Niceville, Fla.; grandchildren Jessica Grace Miller and husband (SrA) Joshua L. Miller of Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico and Lauren Elizabeth Corley of Niceville; siblings Hilda Marie Moore and husband Virgil of Columbia and Joyce Jimmilee Smith and husband Dale of Alexandria, Va.; and sister-in-law Wanda Bozarth.

Patsy was preceded in death by son-in-law Mark Edward Minor; and brother James Knox Bozarth, Jr.

Memorial gifts may be made to Parkade Baptist Church Building Fund or Wonderland Camp in Rocky Mount.

Tributes can be left online a
t  www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Jane Mathis Pemberton, 69, of Columbia passed away Sunday, Aug. 21, 2011.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, at Parker Funeral Service. Visitation will be from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be at Locust Grove Cemetery in Sturgeon.

Jane was born April 6, 1942, in Boonville to Roy Sublett and Pauline Voorheis Mathis, who preceded her in death.

She moved in 1951 to Columbia, where she remained for the rest of her life. Jane graduated from Hickman High School in 1960 and was employed by GTE until her retirement in 1993 after 33 years of service.

She was a member of Oakland Christian Church.

Jane is survived by her adored companion, Howard Vernon Wade; her son, Darren Dean Pemberton; grandchildren Richard Darrell Pemberton II and Megan Christine Pemberton; a sister, Judith Mathis Richards; and nieces Kirsten Richards and Regan Richards.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Locust Grove Cemetery Association, for whom Jane was treasurer for many years. Send donations to c/o Parker Funeral Service, 22 N. Tenth St., Columbia, Mo., 65201.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Friday, August 26, 2011

Professor Gregory J. Scott, J.D., 54, of Columbia died Monday, Aug. 22, 2011, while on his way to teach a class at the University of Missouri.

A gathering to honor Greg’s memory, followed by a dessert reception, will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 29, in the Parish Hall of the Calvary Episcopal Church, 123 S. Ninth St. Please bring a great story and happy memories of this wonderful man. If you’re not a Boy Scout, please wear casual dress. If you are a Scout, you know what to wear.

Much as it is hard for people who knew him as an adult to believe, at one time Professor Scott was a little baby, 8 pounds, 8 ounces, born June 10, 1957, in Sedalia to parents Joe and Marlene “Perky” Scott.

Where to begin? Scouting, of course. Greg was involved with Scouting for almost 44 of his 54 years, ever since he joined Troop 707 in 1967. After he earned his Eagle Badge, he went on to become an adult leader of the troop until the day he died. Greg wishes to express his eternal gratitude to all the fine young men of Troop 707 who allowed him to be a part of their lives.

Son, brother, uncle, Scout, school bus driver, Stephens Lake lifeguard, editor of the MU Law Review, lawyer, leader, friend, teacher and mentor, Greg crammed three lifetimes of fun and friends into his 54 years and had a fabulous time doing it. Greg’s words: “Life is fun! Too bad it’s so dadgum short!” (As is this obit.) And, remember, if you’re not having fun, you’re doing it wrong.

After receiving his J.D. from MU in 1988, he worked at the Swanson Midgley Law Firm in Kansas City. He moved back to Columbia in the early 1990s and took a position with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office in Jefferson City, and he eventually returned to MU to teach in their schools of law and business. He received numerous accolades in his career, such as the Gold Chalk Award, given in recognition of professors who have made significant contributions to the education and training of graduate and professional students at MU.

Survivors include brother Tim Scott (Dorothy Burggraaff) of Kansas City; sister-in-law Donna Scott-Heermann (Jon) of Independence; nephews Brandon Scott (Hatti) of Manhattan, Kan., and Tyler Scott; and dogs Scout and Pup-Pup of the home.

In lieu of flowers, Greg suggested contributions to Troop 707, c/o Laura Sandstedt, 501 Overland Court, Columbia, Mo., 65203, or the Central Missouri Humane Society, 616 Big Bear Blvd., Columbia, Mo., 65202. You also can honor Greg by simply grabbing every opportunity to live life and help those around you.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Sunday, August 28, 2011

Donald Lee LaRoe, 78, of Hazelwood entered into rest on Friday, Aug. 26, 2011, at Heritage Hall Nursing Center in Centralia.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 30, at Fenton Funeral Chapel in Centralia. Interment will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Centralia.

Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until time of services Tuesday at the funeral chapel.

He was born on Sept. 3, 1932, in Boone County, the son of George Homer and Bertha Kile LaRoe.

Survivors include three brothers, Russell LaRoe of Sturgeon, Harold LaRoe and wife Betty of Hallsville, and John LaRoe of Fulton; one sister, Pearl Patterson and husband Billy of Fordyce, Ark.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, George H. LaRoe and Jerry Dwayne LaRoe.

Donald was a graduate of Hickman High School and of DeVry Techinical College in Chicago, with continuing education at Washington University in St. Louis.

He was a design engineer, knowledgeable with computers and radar technology, while working at McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis, with forced retirement in February 1991.

He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and was awarded the Korean Service Medal with one bronze service star, United Nations Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

The family suggests memorials to cancer research.


Published Sunday, August 28, 2011

Charles Edward “Tutor” Davis, 76, of Columbia passed away Friday, Aug. 26, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 30, at Nilson Funeral Home. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 6 until 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 29, at the funeral home.

Charles Edward Davis was born Sept. 26, 1934, in Boone County, the son of Ed and Doris Acton Davis. He graduated from Hickman High School in 1952. Tutor was a hard-working man in spite of his disability. He loved working with heavy equipment and did small jobs for neighbors in Pierpont.

Survivors include one brother, Joe E. Davis of Ashland; and three sisters, Georgia Boggs of Fulton, Eddie Jean Burks of Columbia and Lena Grant of Fulton. Nine nieces and nephews, as well as many cousins and friends, also survive.

Memorial contributions may be made to Central Missouri Humane Society, 616 Big Bear Blvd., Columbia, Mo. 65202.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.


Published Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Katharine Hulen Pierrot, 92, died peacefully Saturday, Aug. 27, 2011, in Virginia.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 3, at Grace United Methodist Church in Burlington, Iowa. The Rev. Trevor Davis will officiate. Private interment will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery.

She was born Feb. 9, 1919, in Columbia to Ross G. and Emma Cecil Brown. She was married to Dr. Carl S. Hulen of Centralia from 1940 to 1983 and to Charles Pierrot of Wever, Iowa, from 1988 to 1999.

Katharine was an early organizer and Missouri chairman of the March of Dimes campaign against polio and a perennial Cub Scout den mother. She was a member of PEO and Grace United Methodist Church in Burlington, Iowa. Katharine and Carl built and operated Holiday Inns in Missouri, Iowa and Illinois. She was judged to be an outstanding seamstress and quilter.

She is survived by her children, Mason R. Hulen and his wife, Annie Laurie, of Waynesboro, Va., and Marjorie Ann Smith and her husband, Jim Smith, of Danville, Iowa; four grandchildren, Carl N. Hulen of Keauhou, Hawaii, Mary Katharine Froehlich of Waynesboro, Va., Daniel R. Hulen of Richmond, Va., and Evan Smith of Burlington, Iowa; 11 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Dr. Ross G. Brown of Columbia and Donald H. Brown of Terrace Park, Ohio.

She was preceded in death by both husbands.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Katharine’s name for Grace United Methodist Church, 1100 Angular St., Burlington, Iowa, 52601.

Arrangements are being handled by Prugh Funeral Service of Burlington, Iowa.


Published Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Marvin Eugene “DJ Ice” Holmes, 46, of Columbia passed away Aug. 27, 2011, at University Hospital and Clinics.

Funeral Services will be at noon Saturday, Sept. 3, at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church in Columbia with Pastor Roderick Williams Sr. officiating. Interment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at Millard Family Funeral Home.

He was the ninth child born to James Peal and Juanita Holmes on Aug. 20, 1965, in Meachem Park, Mo.

Marvin received his early education in Meachem Park-Kirkwood School District until his family moved to Columbia in 1978. He graduated from Hickman High School in 1983. Marvin was a born-again Christian and was baptized in 1998 in Phoenix, Ariz. He was a devoted employee for Joe Machens Ford, where he worked for more than four years. Marvin was a number one fan of the Dallas Cowboys. (He loved those Cowboys!)

Best known as DJ Ice or JST-ICE, Marvin was an expert in providing music and entertainment for reunions, nightclubs, wedding receptions and just about any kind of party. He was loved by everyone he met. He would give you his last dollar if you needed it and tell you to pay it back whenever you could. Marvin had a heart of gold. There isn’t a person on this earth that can say a negative word about Marvin.

Marvin leaves behind to cherish his memory his mother, Juanita Holmes; loving companion, Miranda Turner; three daughters, Ashanti Holmes, Tiffany Williams and Latisha Craig; six sisters, Dianna (John) Tyler, Patty (Kenny) Booth, Karen (Corey) Holmes;, Vickie Holmes, Rose Black and Jamesetta (Darell) Hunn; six brothers, Keith (Lisa) Holmes, Gregory Holmes, Rev. James (Zena) Holmes, William Holmes, James (Joyce) Peal, Jr. and Michael (Hava) Simmons; two grandchildren, Amariya Cain and Amani Cain; a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, including one special friend, Damarkus Cain.

Marvin was preceded in death by his father, James Peal, II.

Arrangements are under the direction of Millard Family Funeral Home, 12 East Ash Street; Columbia, 65203. www.millardfamily chapels.com.


Published Thursday, September 8, 2011

Mildred Virginia Hickam McDow, 92, of Bay City, Mich., passed away Sunday, Aug. 28, 2011.

A private service was held in Bay City.

She was born Feb. 16, 1919, the daughter of Elmer and Ruby Williamson Hickam.

Mildred was born and raised in Columbia, graduating from Hickman High School. She married Robert E. McDow, and he preceded her in death along with her son, William Richard McDow.

Survivors include her daughter, Virginia Mead of Clinton Township, Mich.; grandson Scott McDow (Amey); and three great-grandchildren, Seth, Layne and Hannah, all of Saginaw, Mich.. Local survivors include Les Grimes, George Wilson, Johnny Williamson, Betty Frech, Sandy Coleman, Terry Grimes and Michael Grimes.

Contributions may be made in her memory to Season’s Hospice, 27355 John R. Road, No. 100, Madison Heights, Mich., 48071-3327.


Published Sunday, September 4, 2011

Jimmy C. Davis, 72, of Columbia passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2011, after a prolonged battle with bone cancer.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 6, at Memorial Funeral Home to celebrate his life. At his request, his body will be cremated.

Jimmy was born Dec. 14, 1938, in Stephens to the late Helen and Talmon Davis, a machinist/welder. The family moved to Columbia in 1947. Jimmy attended Jacobs Elementary, Jefferson Junior High, Hickman High School and the University of Missouri. He was a member of the ROTC at the University of Missouri with Sgt. Hardin, where he won regional drill team honors.

He is survived by his wife, Pat; five children; and nine grandchildren.

Jimmy worked with electrical utilities for many years within Boone County, first with the city of Columbia’s Electrical Engineering Department for 17 years and then as chief engineer for Boone Electric Cooperative for 25 years, retiring in 1999.

Jimmy loved his community and served on many committees to standardize local electrical and safety codes for the city of Columbia and Boone County. He was a Master Mason of Acacia Lodge No. 602 AF&AM, Aleppo Grotto/Monarch in 1982, Tiger Shrine/President in 1990 and past grand monarch of the Grottoes of North America from 1996 to 1997.

Jimmy’s first love in life was his Harley. A great storyteller, he loved to share tales of the motorcycle road trips he and his wife, Pat, took throughout the United States. Jimmy’s first motorcycle experience was on a 50cc Honda that he rented from Lindsay Rentals in 1967 for a surprise adventure for a friend’s birthday. He spent many years and miles enjoying the open road and the wind in his face, which began with the purchase of a 180cc Yamaha from Norman Clinkenbeard at Enduro Yamaha-Hond to his first Harley from Zook’s of Columbia and Des Moines, Iowa.

Other hobbies included duck hunting at Dalton Cutoff, squirrel hunting, deer hunting with the “Half-Fast Deer Club” at the lake, target shooting, woodworking, coaching softball and his John Deere tractor.

In his later years, his favorite hangout was the local Bob Evans restaurant. He never met a stranger and always enjoyed discovering your life story and exchanging tales. By the end of a conversation with Jimmy, you were a new friend.

At one time Jimmy had 27 dogs. He loved to hunt with them. He also had two pet crows that would accompany them on their hunting adventures. The crows were a little ornery and loved to nip at the dogs’ tails when they were asleep in the coal shed, until one day the dogs decided they were tired of this activity and sent feathers flying, sending them to their place of rest.

Jimmy was an instigator and loved to get everyone involved with a cause or project, from softball teams to PTA to 4-H, to the Dudes and Dames Square Dance Club to Masonic organizations. He served as past president of the Northwest Square Dance Association. Many have wondered over the years, “Just how did he get us into this?” But by the time the project was finished, he had everyone else convinced it was their idea in the first place.

“For those of us who have known him, we bid him farewell, but we know that there will always be a thought and story that will live on forever with those here and that have passed before,” his family said. “He loved life and being in its center and left us with reluctance. May he rest in peace knowing that he lived a full life and leaves us with many great memories.”

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Boone County Historical Society, 3801 Ponderosa St., Columbia, Mo. 65201.


Published Sunday, September 4, 2011

Ruth Royston George, 87, passed away peacefully Friday morning, Sept. 2, 2011, after an extended illness.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6, at Parker Funeral Service. Friends may visit with the family after the service at the funeral home. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Ruth was born in Howard County, the third of seven children, to James Foy Royston and Ann Marie Simmons Royston. She attended Columbia Public Schools and was a graduate of the University of Missouri. She began her long and distinguished career with South Dakota State in Brookings, S.D., as an assistant home economist. She advanced rapidly and soon became a home economist in Rapid City, S.D.

Ruth married Robert George in 1948 and moved to a farm in Mexico, Mo., where she continued her career as a home economist with the University of Missouri Extension Service. They later moved to Columbia where she obtained a M.S. degree in home economics.

Ruth had an outstanding career as program coordinator with Missouri Cooperative Extension. She had been a state consultant and director to the state board. She loved her work in developing programs for assisting outstanding young women in their careers. She received numerous awards for her work and was well known for her contributions to the University Extension Service.

Survivors include sisters, Mary Cannon of Lee’s Summit, and Susan Elliott and husband Jack of Pittsburgh; brother, Don Royston and wife Joyce of Huntsville, Ala.; sister-in-law, Kathryn Royston of St. Charles; brother-in-law, William Schaefer of Sacramento, Calif.; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a brother, James Royston; and sisters, Margaret Jones and Virginia Schaefer.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Sherry Anne Ragsdale, 55, of San Antonio, Texas, formerly of Columbia, passed away Monday, Sept. 5, 2011.

Memorial services will be at 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, at Sturgeon Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 3 p.m. Thursday until the service time.

Sherry Anne Ragsdale was born May 20, 1956, in Columbia, the daughter of Erbie and Beverly Rupard Baker.

She married David Ragsdale May 26, 1994, in Columbia.

Sherry worked in several capacities in the hospital administration for a number of years.

She very much enjoyed shopping with family and rearranging her furniture.

Survivors include her husband, David; her mother, Beverly Northup; one son, Jacob Aaron Worstell; two daughters, Dana Nicole McCubbin and Michelle Lee Westlake; three brothers, Erbie, Phillip and Jason Baker; one sister, Peggy Piatt; 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

She was preceded in death by her father; and a daughter, Meredith Anne.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sturgeon Baptist Church or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.


Published Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Hallie L. Phillips, 88, of Columbia passed away Monday, Sept. 5, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 9, at Parker Funeral Service. Burial will follow at Columbia Cemetery. Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Hallie was born Sept. 12, 1922, to Paul and Pearl Gilpin Martin in Ashland. She married Robert “Bob” Phillips on Oct. 16, 1943, and he preceded her in death on Dec. 21, 1994.

She graduated from Hickman High School in 1940. She worked as a secretary and bookkeeper of Plumbers and Pipe fitters Local No. 317 for 29 years. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary. She was the first secretary-treasurer of the Daniel Boone Little League in 1959 and was a member of the board of directors of the Cancer Research Center. Hallie was best known for her huge smile and great sense of humor. She judged her shopping and errand runs by how many friends she got to see. She will be missed by many.

Survivors include a son, Ron Phillips and wife Kayla of Columbia; a daughter, Marcia Endecott and husband Ron of Columbia; three granddaughters, Ashley Endecott, Annie Phillips and Maddie Phillips; one sister, Wanda Engstrand of York, Pa.; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; one brother, Oran Martin; and one sister, Sarah Beaver.

Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or the Cancer Research Center.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Thursday, September 15, 2011

Jean Broadus, 70, of Columbia died Thursday, Sept. 8, 2011, at her home.

Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at Second Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday at the church.

Jean Broadus was born April 21, 1941, in Columbia, the daughter of Robert Williams and Mary Forbis. She was a member of Second Baptist Church and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. She was also a member of Church Women United.

She leaves to cherish her memory one son, Lanny Broadus of Columbia; three daughters, Sherry Broadus of Fort Wayne, Ind., Waltiua Broadus of Columbia and Valencia Broadus of Kansas City; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Online condolences may be left at www.htmayfuneralhome.com.


Published Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Allen O. “Bud” Kircher, 85, of New Franklin passed away Thursday evening, Sept. 8, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, at Davis Funeral Chapel, with the Rev. Roger McMurry officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Davis Funeral Chapel.

Allen Oesch Kircher was born Jan. 13, 1926, in Cass County, the son of Leroy Kircher and Clara Oesch Kircher. He married Helen Virginia Hardin on April 19, 1947, in Columbia. She preceded him in death in September 2000. Bud served in the U.S. Army during World War II and received a purple heart for his service. He was a proud farmer, and this showed in his crops each year at harvest time. You could find Bud at Grotjan’s Service Station at any given time playing cards and sharing stories with anyone that stopped by for fuel or tires. In his spare time, you would find Bud mowing the yard or watching a St. Louis Cardinals or MU Tigers game on TV. Above all, the love for his family was important to him.

Bud is survived by his son, Jim Kircher and wife Pat of New Franklin; daughter Donna Graves and husband Bob of Apache Junction, Ariz.; sisters Mary Alice Brown of Joplin and Irene Hardin of New Franklin; four grandchildren, Nick Graves of Scottsdale, Ariz., Kaity Barks and husband Niels of Apache Junction, Ariz., Jaime Kircher of New Franklin and Bryan Kircher of Tucson, Ariz,; and a great-grandson, Tucker Barks.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Helen; his brother, Leroy; and sister Maxine Kinder.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the New Franklin Silver Liners senior center.


Published by NewspressNow.com
Gregory Novak
1949-2011
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Gregory “Twig” Novak, 62, died September 9, 2011, at NorthCare Hospice.


He owned the Krug Mansion and the Ogden House (“Shakespeare Chateau”).


Survivors: brothers, Paul, David; nieces, Sarah Novak Nesbitt, Amanda Christine Novak; nephew, Ryan Novak; grandnephew, Reid Nesbitt; an aunt; several cousins; many close friends.


Services: 2 p.m. Sunday, October 16, Rose Garden, Loose Park, Kansas City.


Memorials: Kansas City Rose Society through the Memory Rose Program.


From classmate Guy Neenan; Greg was unable to recover from a third open-heart procedure recently. He’s been a resident of St. Joseph for the recent 12 years or so. Greg, and his Kewpie brothers, Paul and David are very close to the Neenan family. He was our mother’s “seventh son”.

Greg was awarded the Grand Prize at the Kewpie Talent Show. He MC’ed the event and charmed everyone with his rendition of the “Noah’s Ark” routine of Bill Cosby. He gained the nickname, “Twig” as student manager of the Mchigan State Spartans’ baseball team. Twig was a successful bachelor. Many Kewpies will remember him with fondness.

Published Thursday, September 15, 2011

Robert Spencer Kunkel, 86, of the Kansas City area died Monday, Sept. 12, 2011.

Burial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.

Bob was born Aug. 13, 1925, to Ernest Spencer Kunkel and Ruby Crockett Kunkel in Mexico, Mo. He married Dorothy Conley on April 12, 1947, who predeceased him.

Bob worked at General Telephone in Columbia until 1966, followed by Northeast Electronics/Northern Telecom in Concord, N.H. He retired from Tautron in the mid-’80s.

Bob loved to fish, ride his bike on various trails, including the Katy Trail, swim, garden, travel and snorkel.
Survivors include his daughters, Karen Swanson (Ken) of Bow, N.H., Deborah Porter (Jim) of Cibolo, Texas, and Patrice Roberts (John) of Overland Park, Kan.; and six grandchildren, Tracy Porter, Karl Swanson, Julie Porter-Saldiva (Andy), Kevin Swanson (Jennifer), Molly Roberts and Spencer Roberts.

The family requests no flowers.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published, September 18,2011 'The Missourian'

Howard D. Berkley Jr.
COLUMBIA — Howard D. Berkley Jr., a longtime Columbia resident, died Monday, Sept. 12, 2011, in San Antonio. He was 91.

Born on Sept. 26, 1919, in Centralia, Mr. Berkley grew up on a farm with six siblings. He was practically running the farm by the time he was 14, his son, Larry, said.

Mr. Berkley completed his bachelor’s degree in business at MU and went on to serve during World War II as a pilot and flight instructor in the Pacific theater.

Upon returning to the United States, Mr. Berkley continued his services in the Reserves and became a lieutenant colonel while raising his three sons: Dutch, Richard and Larry. Eventually he received a master's degree in business administration from Southern Methodist University and relocated back to Columbia.

“Growing up we always played sports,” Dutch Berkley said, reflecting on his active childhood. Mr. Berkley's sons all noted their summer days swimming at Rock Quarry Park or watching their father play tennis, a sport he played throughout his life.

“Dad taught me everything I know,” Richard Berkley said. “I hope we didn’t hassle him too much," he continued, citing the challenges that accompany raising three sons.

“I was the youngest, and parenting typically gets more laid back when you’re on your last kid,” Larry Berkley said.

Mr. Berkley’s oldest son, Dutch, attended the U.S. Air Force Academy and served for five years, a feat he attributes to his father’s aid in the application process. Both Dutch and Larry received pilot’s licenses like their father. Richard went on to become a musician, but said he still holds his father's service dear to his heart.

After a divorce, Mr. Berkley married Sarah Louise Berkley of Columbia, gaining three stepchildren. He lived in Columbia until his wife's death in 2003. During this time he remained an active volunteer at the Truman Veterans Hospital and The Columbia Show-Me Cosmopolitan Club.

Mr. Berkley is survived by his three sons, Dutch and Richard, both of San Antonio and Larry of Little Rock, Ark.; two sisters, Margie Constantine and Francis Byrne; brother Dale Berkley; six grandchildren and three stepchildren. The time, date and location of services are to be determined.


Published Thursday, September 15, 2011

Nelda Marie Ehler, 64, of Hallsville passed away Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011, at her home.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at Nilson Funeral Home with visitation from 11 a.m. until the time of services. Burial will be at Grandview Cemetery.

Nelda Marie Ehler was born Jan. 5, 1947, in Columbia, the daughter of John and Hazel Durk Ehler, and they preceded her in death. She retired from the University of Missouri with more than 20 years of service. She enjoyed working in ceramics, going to rodeos and photography, and she especially loved her cats. She was a member of New Beginnings Christian Church in Centralia.

Survivors include her daughter, Lisa Pagett (Bill Jr.); one sister, Martha Ehler; two grandchildren, Brett and Nate Smith; and many close extended family and friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Kidney Fund or Reaching New Heights Ministries (Food Pantry). Online condolences may be left at www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.

 


Published Friday, September 23, 2011 (added April 19, 2012 - '67 Kewpie request - wasn't in class database)

Bill “Punky” McMahon, 62, went to be with the Lord on Friday, Sept. 16, 2011.

A funeral service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23, at Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation is from noon Friday until the service time.

Born on Nov. 25, 1948, in Coffeyville, Kan., Bill was the son of the late Floyd and Lois McMahon.

He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, returning home as a highly decorated hero and Purple Heart recipient.

Bill was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars and quite active at the VA, assisting with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder awareness. Not only a fearless man, Bill was a loving father who greatly enjoyed spending time with his family. He had the ability to make anyone smile and maintained a positive outlook no matter the circumstance. When Hurricane Ike came through Texas, Bill stayed, proving he could truly weather any storm.

He is survived by his children, Christy (Brock Wright) McMahon of Ashland, William Travis (Lori Flores) McMahon of Hitchcock, Texas; grandchildren Aliyah and Aliyana McMahon, and Brock C. Wright, all of Ashland, and William Travis McMahon Jr. and future grandson William Isaiah McMahon of Hitchcock, Texas; and devoted friend Renda Nichols. Two sisters preceded him in death.

Memorials can be made to the William McMahon Memorial Fund, c/o Christy McMahon, 1217 Business Loop 70 W., Columbia, Mo., 65202. Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Friday, September 23, 2011

Scott Lynn Caldwell, 41, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011.

Funeral services conducted by Brother Bruce Caldwell will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at Liberty Baptist Church, 7461 N. Brown Station Road. Visitation will be from noon until the service time Saturday at the church. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.
Survivors include his wife, Jeannie Caldwell; children Charlie Hayes Caldwell and Christiana Noelle Caldwell; his father, Bruce Hayes (Sharon Sue) Caldwell; his mother, Elaine Smith; sisters Hollie (Martin) Still and Karissa Lee; brothers Scottie (Brittany) Williamson and Robbie (Libby) Williamson; grandfather Clifford Hayes (Le) Caldwell; grandmother Virginia McCullem; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sellars Funeral Home of Lebanon, Tenn.


Published Friday, September 23, 2011

Shirley Hall McClure, 76, died peacefully on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011, of multiple myeloma.

A celebration of her life will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2, at Mexico United Methodist Church. A reception will follow in the church Fellowship Hall.

She was born on Dec. 10, 1934, to Daniel and Elgene Hall in Columbia.

She married David Bell on June 21, 1953, and moved to Mexico, Mo., in 1959. They had four children, Julie, Jerry, Joni and Jay, all raised in Mexico. She later married John W. McClure, who preceded her in death.

Shirley graduated from Hickman High School in 1953. She went to the University of Missouri. With the birth of her children, her education was interrupted, but she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education at the age of 45. She taught in the Mexico Public Schools but later opened her Busy Bee Day Care for 2- to 5-year-olds. After 14 years, she retired. She was active in Mexico United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Audrain Habitat for Humanity, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and AARP. She enjoyed golf, her bridge group of 50 years, music and especially time with her six grandchildren. After John’s death, Shirley particularly enjoyed being a part of Volunteers in Mission teams with the Methodist Church. She did mission work in Jamaica, Peru, Costa Rica, Kentucky Appalachian Mountains, Denver, Camp JoOta in Clarence, with migrant workers in Illinois and in Mississippi rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina.

She is survived by her children, Julie (Les) Key of Mexico, Jerry (Debbie) Bell of Overland Park, Kan., Joni (John) Troyer of Columbia and Jay Bell of Bradenton, Fla.; grandchildren Nicole, Amanda and Jack Bell, Holly and Luke Troyer, and Lesli Key. Her surviving siblings are Nancy Novak of Oklahoma, Susan (Roger) Ballard of Columbia, Ellen Webber of Centralia and Jim Hall of Columbia.

Her mother and father preceded her in death.

Memorials may be made to Mexico United Methodist Church, 122 W. Promenade, Mexico, Mo.; Audrain Habitat for Humanity, P.O. Box 835, Mexico, Mo.; or the charity of your choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.arnoldfh.com.


Published Monday, September 26, 2011

Curtis Edward Aufranc, 89, of Columbia died Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011, at Columbia Manor after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Curt had always made it be known he desired to be cremated and to not have a funeral service. His family will honor those wishes.

Curt was born on Dec. 5, 1921, in Deer Park, the son of Daniel William and Mary Johannah Aufranc. They preceded him in death.

On Feb. 9, 1946, he married Betty Jane Jacobs.

She preceded him in death on May 13, 2006.

Curt graduated from Hickman High School and later attended the University of Missouri.

He started work for MFA Oil in 1945, and the next year transferred to MFA Insurance, later Shelter Insurance Cos. He worked for MFA until accepting a job in 1961 in St. Louis with Data Documents. He moved his family back to Columbia in 1964 after rejoining MFA. He remained with Shelter Insurance until his retirement in January 1987.

Curt was a longtime supporter of the Missouri Tigers. He and Betty were charter members of Broadway Christian Church and longtime members of the Columbia Country Club and the Friday Night Dance Group. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening and just about anything that kept him outdoors. He also cherished his grandchildren.

Curtis is survived by one daughter, Barbara Street and husband Dennis of Pensacola, Fla.; one son, David Aufranc and wife Tina of Columbia; five grandchildren, Tyler Aufranc of Pittsburg, Kan., Hannah Aufranc of Columbia, Heather Keller of Fulton, Holly Musick of Columbia and Benjamin Street of Pensacola; eight great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Dorothy Sapp of Columbia and Gertrude Dawson of Littleton, Colo.

Four brothers preceded him in death: Will Henry, Otto, Clarance and Emmett. Three sisters also preceded him in death: Ethyl Lewis, Evalyn Short and Mary Jo Phillips.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri or the Alzheimer’s Association Mid-Missouri chapter.

Online condolences may be left for Curtis’ family at www.heartlandcremation.com.


Published Sunday, October 23, 2011

Charles E. Dietz, 82, of Vero Beach, Fla., died on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2011.

At his request, there will be no repose or service.

Charles was born in Columbia on July 10, 1929, to Thomas Joe and Mary Caldwell Dietz.

He is survived by one brother, Norman Dietz of Eldon; his son, Dan Dietz of Everett, Wash.; his daughter, Debbie Holcombe of Vashon Island, Wash.; one grandson; and two granddaughters.

He was predeceased by his wife, Lenora.

He was a Kewpie and graduated from Hickman High School in 1947. He moved to Vero Beach from Long Beach, Calif., in 1980. He served in both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Vero Beach and was an active participant in its sanctuary choir for several years. He was a member of the Elks Lodge No. 1774. He retired from Air Conditioning Local No. 250 in Los Angeles in 1979, after serving 25 years as a journeyman.

Arrangements are under the direction of Strunk Funeral Home in Vero Beach.


Published Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Kenneth Lee Davis, 59, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2011.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, at Parker Funeral Service in Columbia.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the service time at the funeral home.

Kenneth was born March 14, 1952, in Fayette to Charles and Dorothy Cramer Davis.

He married Kathryn Butterworth on July 22, 1977.

He was a 1970 graduate of Hickman High School, and he attended Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg.

He had worked as a drywall finisher for 35 years, and he enjoyed spending time at his produce store in the historical barn Shaw Livery.

Kenneth is survived by his son, Tim (Lauren) Davis and their daughter, Dawson, of Columbia; mother Dorothy Davis of Columbia; brother Lloyd (Christine) Davis of Fort Smith, Ark.; one niece; five nephews; and many other loving family members.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles.

Memorial contributions can be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 606 Ridgeway Ave., Columbia, Mo., 65203.

Online condolences can be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Friday, September 30, 2011

Wanda K. Palmer, 70, of Raytown passed away Monday, Sept. 26, 2011, at St. Luke’s East Hospital.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, at D.W. Newcomer’s Sons, Floral Hills Chapel. Burial will be in Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday and 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday at the chapel.

Wanda lived in the Kansas City area most of her life and was a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.

Wanda will be greatly missed by all that were lucky enough to know her, experience her hospitality, her kindness and especially her cooking! Live, laugh, love!

Wanda is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Robert E. Palmer of the home; her precious son, Michael Sean Palmer, his wife, Sheila, and grandsons Zachary Robert and Thomas Michael Palmer, her pride and joy; brothers Tom Acton (Sharon) and David Acton; half siblings Theresa, Steve, Sharon, Jackie, Angie and Kelly; and many other beloved family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ezra and Frances Zumwalt Acton.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Community Assistance Program of IAFF Local No. 42, 6320 Manchester Ave., Suite 42A, Kansas City, Mo., 64133.

Fond memories and condolences for the family may be left at www.floralhillsfuneralhome.com.


Published Sunday, October 2, 2011

Michael David Deering, 60, of Columbia passed away Thursday, Sept. 29, 2011.

Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4, at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 until 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 3, at Parker Funeral Service.

Michael was born June 3, 1951, in Columbia to David and Margaret Deering, and they preceded him in death. He was married on May 17, 1987, to Julie Beth Martin, and she survives.

He was a 1969 graduate of Hickman High School. He had worked at Tony’s Pizza as a driver for 33 years until his retirement.

In addition to his wife, he also is survived by his brother, Robert Deering of Texas; five nieces; six nephews; three brothers-in-law; one sister-in-law; and many friends.

Online condolences can be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Monday, October 3, 2011

Nealia Blanche “Bea” Thomas, 84, of Columbia went to be with her Lord and savior and loved ones Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011, at her home in Hallsville.

Visitation will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, at Memorial Funeral Home with graveside services immediately following at 3:30 p.m. at Memorial Cemetery.

Bea was born June 20, 1927, in Columbia, the daughter of Maggie Blanche Hale and Charles F. Morris. A lifelong resident of the Columbia and Hallsville area, Bea graduated from Hickman High School.

Bea was a wife, mother and homemaker. She was a lifelong friend to Mary and Margaret Black and their families and will be sorely missed by her dear “Bob” of Ankeny, Iowa

To mourn her passing, Bea leaves behind four daughters, Linda Ketchum, Pat Thomas and her friend Tony, Merrirose Spires and husband Jimmy of Hallsville, and Suzzie Thomas and husband Curtis of Columbia; four sons, Frank Thomas and wife Linda of Columbia, David Thomas and wife Kara of Osage Beach, Gary Thomas and wife Debbie of Hartsburg, and Danny Thomas and wife Patti of Columbia; 19 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren

Bea was preceded in death by her parents; her spouse, Bert Thomas; three brothers, Thomas Morris, Carl Morris and Charles Morris; a sister, Martha Bittle; two sons, John Thomas and Tommy Thomas; and a daughter, Sandy Thomas.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the American Cancer Society. Tributes may be left at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Monday, October 3, 2011

Richard “Dick” Brunstrom, 83, of Columbia passed away Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, at Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Memorial Funeral Home.

Richard was born June 21, 1928, in Evanston, Ill.,to Prescott Roland and Mildred Edith Schwartz Brunstrom. He married Delores Fay Carlos on June 28, 1949, at Memorial Baptist Church in Columbia. She survives.

Richard retired from Riback Industries after 40 years. He served for two years in the Army at Albuquerque, N.M. He was admitted to the Columbia Bowling Hall of Fame and enjoyed woodworking.

Richard is survived by five children, Terry Smith and husband Darrell of Blue Springs, Mark Brunstrom of Rocheport, Beth Wells and husband A.B. of Doniphan, Carl Brunstrom of Hartsburg and DeAnn Kern of O’Fallon; four grandsons; four granddaughters; four great-grandchildren;one great-great-grandchild; four brothers, Alan, Bruce and Jack Brunstrom and Pat Chrouser; two sisters, Valerie Barnes and Pam Brunstrom; and one aunt, June Reiger.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Tom and Jim Chrouser.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mid-Missouri Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, 2400 Bluff Creek Drive, Columbia, Mo., 65201, or the American Cancer Society, 1900 N. Providence Road, Columbia, Mo., 65201.

Tributes can be made online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Thursday, October 6, 2011

Margaret Jeanne Uren Johns, 85, of Columbia died Thursday, Oct. 6, 2011, at her home with her family at her side.

A private memorial to celebrate and honor Margaret’s life will take place in Columbia.

The daughter of Andrew Uren, DVM, and Carol B. Uren, Margaret was born July 18, 1927, in Columbia. Margaret attended Grant Elementary School, Jefferson Junior High School and Hickman High School in Columbia. Upon completion of high school, Margaret attended the University of Missouri.

Margaret married James Franklin Johns III, DVM, in 1948 and spent her early life as a homemaker, loving wife and mother of six children in West Bend, Iowa, where her husband practiced veterinary medicine. After her husband’s untimely death in 1967, Margaret moved her family back to Columbia, where she began a career at State Farm Insurance Cos. From file clerk to senior life insurance underwriter,

Margaret’s 20-year career ended in retirement in 1989. Margaret moved to a retirement community in Bella Vista, Ark., for 10 years. She returned to Columbia to be closer to her family.

Margaret enjoyed reading, pool time, playing bridge with friends, backyard bird-watching, golf, sewing, tennis, spending time with her family and was, of course, a huge fan of Mizzou football and basketball.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, James Franklin Johns III, in 1967; her son, James Franklin (Frank) Johns IV, in 1985; and a brother, William G. (Bill) Uren of Jackson.

Margaret was survived by five children, Jennifer Francis and husband Michael of St. Louis, Rebecca “Becky” Brooks and husband Steve of Columbia, Katherine Shaw of Columbia, William “Bill” Johns and wife Lita of Lee’s Summit, and Jeanne Damron and husband Daryl of Columbia. Grandchildren include Katy Francis, Erin Francis, Matthew Francis, Hilary Shaw Babcock and husband Jeremiah, Chris Brooks, Billy Brooks, Hunter Damron, Reagan Damron, Riley Damron, Will Johns and Reece Johns; and one great-grandchild, Maryana Francis. Also surviving are two brothers, Andrew W. Uren of Morrilton, Ark., and John E. Uren, DVM, and wife Nancy of Des Moines, Iowa.

Memorials are suggested to the ALS society and the MS society.


Published Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Letha Mae Saunders, 85, of Columbia passed away Friday, Oct. 7, 2011, at Ashland Healthcare.

The ashes of Letha and her husband, Ray, will be placed at Memorial Park Cemetery in the spring.

Letha was born May 16, 1926, in Columbia to Samuel and Lillie Marsh Elder.

Letha was an avid bingo player and her son Marvin hoped her last word was “bingo.”

Survivors include three sons, Daryl R. Saunders and his wife, Zofia Saunders, Gary Raymon Saunders and Marvin Lee Saunders; grandsons Marc Stuart Saunders, Brian Daniel Saunders and John Raymon Saunders; and granddaughter Dena Raylea Saunders.

Online condolences may be left for Letha’s family at www.heartlandcremation.com.


Published Thursday, October 13, 2011

Eric Oneal Criss, 46, of Columbia answered the call of Jesus Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Wentzville.

Funeral services will be at noon Saturday, Oct. 15, at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church. Burial will be in the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday at the church.

Eric was born Oct. 5, 1965, in Columbia, the son of Bobbie Cox Criss. He was a member of the Progressive Missionary Baptist Church. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

He leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Bobbie Coleman, and stepfather the Rev. George Coleman of Columbia; two brothers, Dwayne Cox and the Rev. Michael (Cathy) Cox of Columbia; four stepbrothers, George Coleman Jr. of St. Louis, Gordon Coleman (Terry Lynn) and Gary Coleman (Terry), both of Jefferson City, and Jordan Coleman of Hawaii; and two stepsisters, Gina Edwards (Terry) of Columbia and Ginger Robinson (Benjamin) of Florida.

Online condolences may be left at www.htmayfuneralhome.com.


Published Saturday, October 15, 2011

Mary Francis Wade, 84, of Columbia passed away at 5:15 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, at Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, at the funeral home.

Mary was born May 11, 1927, in Trenton, to Thomas and Dora Taul.

Mary was adopted by Gertrude Weldon in February 1936.

She married Estil Gene Wade on May 9, 1948, and he preceded her in death. She attended Eugene Field School, Jefferson Junior High School and graduated from Hickman High School. She excelled in basketball, volleyball and softball. She enjoyed swimming, roller skating, bowling and fishing. Mary won several state tournaments with Rolla Girls.

Mary is survived by four children, Kenneth Lee Wade, Larry Gene Wade, Michael Allen Wade and Karen Sue Wade; 17 grandchildren; and 28 great-grandchildren. Mary will be greatly missed by those she loved.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her adoptive mother, Gertrude; three sisters; five brothers; one son, Daniel Ray; and one daughter, Mary Ann.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Research Center, 3501 Berrywood Drive, Columbia, Mo. 65201.

Tributes may be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Friday, October 21, 2011

Alma Elizabeth Parker, 93, of Lee’s Summit went to be with her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2011, at the John Knox Village Care Center.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 24, at Parker Funeral Service in Columbia, with Pastor Randy Schilb officiating. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Alma was born on June 20, 1918, to Cecil and Mae Wade in Boone County near Columbia. She was a graduate of Hickman High School. She was a charter member of Memorial Baptist Church and remained active until she moved to Lee’s Summit. She married Fred Young on May 26, 1937, in Columbia, and he preceded her in death in 1956. They had one son. She married Paul Parker of Walnut Grove on Feb. 14, 1959. He preceded her in death in May 1996.

Survivors include her son, Jerry Young and wife Carolyn; three grandchildren, Brad Young of O’Fallon and wife Sarah, Leigh Anne Sirna and husband Pete, and Kristen Wimberly of Lee’s Summit and Buck Wimberly; and six great-grandchildren, Marisa Sirna, Anthony Sirna, Parker Young, Lauren Young, Elliot Wimberly and Everett Wimberly.

Memorials can be made to Memorial Baptist Church, 1634 Paris Road, Columbia, Mo., 65202.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Monday, October 24, 2011

Ronald “Tom” Baker, 71, of Columbia passed away Sunday, Oct. 23, 2011.

A funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Entombment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery Mausoleum. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Memorial Funeral Home.

Tom was born May 16, 1940, in Columbia to James Melva and Marie Ella Sachs Baker.

He graduated from Hickman High School. Tom worked for State Farm Insurance Co., retiring after 41 years of dedicated service as a senior commercial accounts underwriter.

He was not only well-respected and highly knowledgeable but also a mentor to his fellow co-workers. Tom was a member of The Knights of Columbus for many years. He enjoyed photography, woodworking and technology, as well as maintaining his own tomato garden.

He is survived by his nephews and nieces, Billy Baker of Chicago, Donna Caldwell (Allen) of Columbia, Sandie Stuby (Bill) of Columbia, Pattie Kasper of Columbia, Marsha Royster (Mike) of Warrenton, Jack Baker (Kim) of Arizona, Patricia Kuraszeck (Tim) of Chicago, Marie Wyzykowski of Chicago, Debbie Sciortino (Rachid) of Chicago; his uncle, Fred Baker of Columbia; sister-in-law Antoinette Baker of Chicago; and lifelong friend Jack Henerforth of Columbia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, one sister, one nephew, one niece and one great-niece.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Sunday, November 6, 2011

Aldus Richard “Sam” Palmer, 91, of Gravois Mills passed away Sunday, Oct. 23, 2011.

Private family services will be at a later date at Mount Moriah Cemetery in Kansas City, and a celebration of Sam’s life will be held in Columbia.

Sam was born April 15, 1920, in Columbia to Richard E. and Ruth R. Harner Palmer. He grew up in Columbia and graduated from David H. Hickman High School in 1938.

He served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Deuel (APA-160) as a carpenter’s mate first class, and his ship guarded the USS Missouri in 1945 during the signing of the Japanese surrender.

He worked for John Epple Construction Co., John Adams Construction Co. in West Plains, and retired from J.E. Hathman Construction Co.

He was a life member of Carpenters Union Local 1925. Sam also was a member of the Mount Zion Masonic Lodge of West Plains, the Aleppo Grotto and VFW Post 280 in Columbia.

He is survived by Jack Cannon of Ormond Beach, Fla., Jim and Linda Cannon of Overland Park, Kan., and Joe and Florence Cannon of Mandeville, La.; his sister, Mavis Thomas of Eugene, Ore.; six grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Sam was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn Plattner, in 2009; two brothers, Rienzo H. and Waldo E Palmer; and one sister, Aurevia M. Eaton.

Arrangements have been placed under the care of Hedges-Scott Funeral Home in Camdenton, Mo.

Online condolences may be forwarded to the family at www.hedgesscottfuneralhomes.com.

Published Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Veanessa Vonsha Sutton-Fair, 36, of Columbia passed away Thursday, Oct. 27, 2011, at her home in Columbia.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, at United Pentecostal Church, 211 Benton St., with the Rev. Ray Warren officiating. Friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Millard Family Funeral Home. Interment will be at Columbia Cemetery.

She was born on Aug. 15, 1975, to J.B. Wallace and Martha Sutton Jones in Columbia.

She lived her life in Columbia, where she received her education in Columbia Public Schools. She graduated from Hickman High School, class of 1992. She attended Jobs Corps in Clearfield, Utah, where she earned her certified nurses assistant (CNA) license in 1992.

She worked in Columbia Public Schools for 10 years, most recently as the kitchen manager at Field Elementary and Alpha Hart Lewis Elementary schools. She enjoyed working with children, and she will always be remembered as a loving and devoted mother.

Veanessa is survived by her husband, Charles Fair of Columbia; her seven children, Simmone Sutton, Diamond Dunn, JaDaunte Sutton, Ciena Fair, Yanasha Fair, Christian Fair and Meckhi Fair; her parents, Martha Sutton Jones, devoted stepfather Joe Wesley Jones and J.B. (Janice) Wallace; her maternal grandparents, Jimmy and Mary Sutton; paternal grandmother Lois Wallace; five brothers, Jimmy (Tina) Hayes and Rico Hayes, both of Columbia, and Anthony Hughes, Ronald Pulley and Elliot Pulley, all of Sikeston; four sisters, Roshanda Pulley and Tanecia Pulley, both of Sikeston, Annetra Pulley of Atlanta and Shenqua Thomas of Memphis, Tenn.; a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews; business associates; and two close friends, Ida Jackson and Annette Barnes.

Veanessa was preceded in death by her fraternal grandfather, R.B. Wallace; two uncles, Jerry Sutton and John Sutton; and a stepsister, Angela Hill.

Arrangements are under the direction of Millard Family Funeral Home, 12 E. Ash St.; Columbia, Mo., 65203.

Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com.


Published Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Sterling Wilkes “Mac” McHarg, 88, of Warrensburg died Sunday, Oct. 30, 2011, surrounded by his family.

There will be no services.

Mac was born July 9, 1923, in Harg to W.I. and Cynthia McHarg.

His father operated a general store in Harg, located six miles east of Columbia. His mother taught at Hickman High School for many years.

His ancestors founded the town of Harg.

He attended Hickman in Columbia and the University of Missouri. He served in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II as a fighter pilot. After the war, Mac obtained a bachelor’s degree from the University Of Chicago School Of Divinity.

He married Marjorie Kemper McHarg in 1947. They had four children, Kathy Howard of Warrensburg, Bill McHarg of Kansas City, Geoff McHarg of Palmer Lake, Colo., and Melissa McHarg of Denver; and three grandchildren. He left a legacy of love for all who knew and loved him.

Mac married Joyce Willingham McHarg in 1984, and she preceded him in death.

Mac served as a pastor in nondenominational churches and United Churches of Christ for 47 years in Norris, Tenn., Gunnison, Colo., Joplin, Sauk Village, Ill., and Red Oak, Iowa.


Published Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Tevin KeShonn Nelson, 21, of Columbia passed away Oct. 31, 2011, at University Hospital.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, at Friendship Baptist Church in Columbia, with pastor Carmen G. Williams officiating. Friends will be received from 3 to 8 p.m. Friday at Millard Family Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Log Providence Cemetery.

He was born to the union of Keith Holmes Sr. and Trinia Nelson on Sept. 2, 1990.

Tevin was educated in Columbia Public Schools and graduated from Hickman High School, Class of 2009. He enjoyed hanging out with his family and his friends. He enjoyed chauffeuring his father around town. Tevin loved to entertain his family, and he was the life of the party.

Tevin leaves behind to cherish his memory his mother, Trinia Nelson; his father, Keith Holmes Sr.; five brothers, Kennan McMiller, Harold Lee Jr., Jermaine Buckner, Antonio Nelson Sr., Keith Holmes Jr. and Carmelo Holmes; seven sisters, Taquasha Nelson, Kelvonna Holmes, Scarlette Holmes, Asia Holmes, Daisja Holmes, Robyn Lee and Tiffany Hickem; grandmother Juanita Holmes; grandfather Louis Nelson Sr.; girlfriend Lillian Harris: a host of aunts and uncles; special cousins Ayanna Prince, Kevon Nelson and E.J. Battles; and many other cousins whom he loved so much.

Tevin was preceded in death by his grandmother, Mrs. Patsy D. Edwards-Nelson; an uncle, Marvin Holmes; a grandfather, Mr. James Peal II; and an uncle, Wesley R. Edwards.

Arrangements are under the direction of Millard Family Funeral Home, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, Mo., 65203, www.millardfamilychapels.com.


Published Saturday, November 5, 2011

Clara “Baby Sis” Elizabeth Thomas, 75, of Columbia departed this life Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 7, at Second Baptist Church. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:30 until 11 a.m. Monday at the church.

Clara, affectionately known as “Baby Sis,” leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Eileen Bowens; son, Joseph Thomas Jr.; two grandsons, James Thomas (Kerie) and John Thomas; as well as three wonderful great-grandchildren, Jayden Thomas, Kennedy Thomas and Kole Thomas; and a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Clara graduated from David H. Hickman Senior High School in May 1955.

Upon graduation, she was employed by the U.S. Postal Service. Due to her love for education, she continued and received her advanced degree in elementary education from the University of Missouri. In addition to her degree, Clara was awarded a Life Teaching Certificate.

Clara’s beloved legacy will be remembered by brothers, Whitman “Maurice” Ballenger and William Ballenger; and sisters, Brenda R. Stevenson, Winifred P. Hill and Gwyndolyn F. Ballenger.

Clara was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Thomas Sr.; both parents, William and Clara Ballenger; two brothers, Roland and William Ballenger Jr.; and son, Gregory D. Thomas.


Published Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Margaret K. Hayes, 68, of Columbia answered the call of Jesus on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011, at her home surrounded by her loved ones.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, at St. Luke United Methodist Church. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at H.T. May and Son Funeral Home in Columbia.

Margaret Kay Hayes was born Feb. 11, 1943, in Columbia, the daughter of John and Amanda Williams Hayes. Kay was a graduate of Hickman High School in 1961. Known to be a music lover, she has an impressive collection of 45 records and albums. She also was an avid fan of Missouri women’s basketball. She worked for more than 25 years for University of Missouri Health Care before working for Rusk Rehabilitation. She also worked for the Columbia Housing Authority as a manager at Paquin Towers and Imperial Auto Sales and Details. Kay was a devoted mother and grandmother.

Kay is survived by her daughter, Rhea Dawn Brown; her son, Michale (Toni) Hayes; four grandchildren, Stephanie Brown, Tiffany Brown, John Hayes and Michaela Hayes; and one great-grandchild, DaZarrien Brown, all of Columbia; four brothers, Carl “Jack” Hayes of Wichita, Kan., and his special friend, Geraldine Morris, Clarence (Vonnia) Hayes of Las Vegas, and the Rev. Raymond (Celestine) Hayes and William (Cornelia) Hayes, both of Columbia; four sisters, Clara Pauline (James) of Peoria, Ill., and Evelyn Lee, Phyllis (John) Williams and Jewell Bentley, all of Columbia; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and her beloved cousin and best friend, Julia Estes. She will be sorely missed by all who loved her.

Kay was preceded in death by her mother and father; and her sister, Julie Carol Hayes.


Published Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Dr. Roger “Steve” Doak, 72, died Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011, in Lakewood, Colo.

A memorial service is planned for in the spring at Gallatin, where his ashes will be buried in the family plot.
He was born Oct. 7, 1939, on a farm near Jameson, the youngest of seven children of Grace Tarwater Doak and Edgar Parker Doak.

The family later moved to Eagleville and then Olathe, Kan., where he started school. After his father’s death in 1946, the family again relocated to Hallsville, where Roger attended school through the seventh grade. He and his mother then moved to Columbia, and he graduated from Hickman High School in 1957 as a National Merit Scholar. He graduated with distinction from the University of Missouri in 1961 and obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree from Saint Louis University in 1964 with summa cum laude honors. He then completed his residency in radiology, and after becoming board certified, practiced in Dodge City, Kan., Denison, Texas, and Boulder, Colo.

At a very early age, when most boys were playing with tractors, he learned to operate a real one, working in the fields, plowing and harvesting hay alongside his older brothers. He loved doing it and could put in a full day’s work. While living on the farm, he was active in 4-H and exhibited a grand champion lamb at the American Royal.

After moving to Columbia, he worked as a newspaper boy for the Columbia Tribune, where his mother was a proofreader for 20 years. At age 15, his brother Douglas taught him to shear sheep, which he continued through college, working weekends and vacations. Earnings from shearing paid a substantial part of his college and medical school expenses. In high school, he also made money as a golf caddy, carhop and fry cook.

Dr. Doak was widely read and kept abreast in all areas of medicine. He also pursued a varied assortment of activities: spelunking, scuba diving, flying his own plane, gliding in his glider, sailing his HobieCat and skiing. In later years, after taking lessons, he enjoyed going dancing. Photography was a passion, as well as listening to music.

He is survived by his two children, Alan Doak of Boulder and Eva Doak Wilson of Seattle, Wash.; three brothers, William T. Doak of Vandalia, John E. Doak of Bowie, Texas, and Paul Douglas Doak of Ames, Iowa; one sister, Dottie Doak Thompson of San Luis Obispo, Calif.; and numerous nieces, nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers James and Richard; and nephews Mark and Mitchell Doak.


Published Friday, November 4, 2011

Nelda Coffman, 71, of Hallsville passed away Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 7, at Nilson Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. until the service time Monday.

Nelda Reva Coffman was born Dec. 13, 1939, in Columbia, the daughter of Lester and Zelma Boyer Algiere.

She worked as a dietitian at Schurz Hall and later worked in planning and preparing meals for First Christian Church. She graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree in education with a minor in music. She loved to read and enjoyed listening to music and looking at scenic pictures.

Survivors include two brothers, Thomas (Vivian) Algiere and Jimmy (Dorothy) Algiere; two sisters, Virginia (Victor) Newton and Linda Joyce Algiere; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and a daughter, Deann Lynn, in 2001.

Online condolences may be left for the family at nilsonfuneralhome.com.


Published Sunday, November 6, 2011

Donald Lee Poore, 79, of Columbia passed away Friday, Nov. 4, 2011, at Boone Hospital Center.

Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 7, at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6, at the funeral home.

Donald was born Dec. 20, 1931, in Columbia to Lora Lee Dysart and Thomas Clifton Poore.

Except for four years in the U.S. Army, Don spent his entire life in Columbia, graduating from Hickman High School with the Class of 1950.

He was the state singles tennis champion in 1949, played on Hickman’s baseball team, was center on Hickman’s basketball team and also played on its football team. He also was a member of the Verse Choir.

Don served in the Korean War as a specialist 3 with the 5th Anti-Aircraft Command, 504th AAA Missile Battalion, Battery C. He was a SAM flight control crewman for Nike guided missiles. When he got out of the Army, he finished his Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Missouri in 1957 and did half the work toward his master’s degree.

Don will be remembered as one of the best left-handed, fast-pitch softball players in the state. Don played fast-pitch softball all over the state until he was in his late 60s. He also played city league basketball.

Don will be remembered for his love of fishing and hunting. He often was seen flying down the road in the silver dune buggy he built from scratch, with his fishing pole swinging out the back. He was very allergic to fish, so it had been a catch-and-release program for him long before it was ever heard of.

Don worked for the city of Columbia for a few years after college. He was the assistant city engineer. He left the job to work for Rock Hill Asphalt as an estimator. Rock Hill was bought by Richardson & Bass, and Don went with the company. Many years later, R&B was bought by Central Bridge, and Don again went with the company. Finally, Central Bridge was purchased by APAC. In November 1999, Don retired from APAC or Ashland Oil. Many years and four companies, yet he was doing a job he loved. A man can’t ask for more than that.

Don was married to the former Jane Kay Foland, and she survives.

He also is survived by four children, Kimberly Shaw Brown and her husband, Chuck, of Ashland, Kevin Poore and his wife, Cheryl, Carl “C.J.” Poore of Columbia, and Kelsy Poore and partner Matt Perry of Jefferson City. He also leaves a sister, Doris Cottle and family of Tulsa, Okla. In addition, he leaves grandchildren, Kimberly’s son, Matthew Logan Shaw, and Kelsy’s three children, Jameson Trey Blake, Connor Martin Lee and Madison Laura Jane.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Tamara Kay Romero, who died July 31, 2011.

Memorial contributions are suggested to American Heart Association or Welcome Home Inc., c/o Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N. Garth Ave., Columbia, Mo. 65202.

Online condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at www.bachyager.com.


Published Thursday, December 15, 2011

Michelle Ray, 39, of Columbia passed away Thursday, Nov. 10, 2011.

Memorial services will be at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, at Center Point Church.

Visitation will be from 6 p.m. until the service time.

Michelle was born July 14, 1972, to George and Janice Whitworth Ray.
Survivors include her mother, Janice Curran; and three sons, Ricky Coleman, Jeremiah Ray and Mekko Chambers, all of Columbia.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family of Michelle Ray, c/o Janice Curran, 2300 Primrose, Apt. B, Columbia, Mo., 65202.

Online condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at www.bachyager.com.


Published Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Paulette M. Heidy Moore, 59, of Columbia, formerly of Estes Park, Colo., lost her courageous battle with cancer Friday, Nov. 11, 2011.

A memorial service will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, at the Tiger Shrine Club, 1300 Blue Ridge Road.

Paulette was the daughter of John Heidy and Pauline Elias Heidy

She was an avid photographer and was a partner with Evergreen Images Photo. During her career, she received numerous awards, including one from Kansas City, Kan., for architectural photography and a prestigious award in environmental documentary photography throughout the United States. She was the producer and photographer of “The Step Forward,” a documentary film. Paulette was a founding member of the Cope Environment Center in Centerville, Ind., and a member of the Denver Chorale Group.

Besides her love of photography, she also enjoyed fishing, football, rock hunting and spending time with her beloved dogs, Pepe and Duncan.

Paulette graduated from Hickman High School in 1972. She attended Columbia College and Loretta Heights College, as well as the Art Institute in Denver.

Paulette is survived by her stepmother, Bonnie Heidy of Columbia; brothers John (Ann) Heidy, Stanley Wood and Eric Wood of Columbia; and sisters Linda Hess of Columbia, Patricia (Bob) Wakeland of Bishop, Texas, Karla (Mark) Koskela and MG (Rudi) Holtkamp of Columbia. She is also survived by her aunt, Norma McCulley; numerous nieces and nephews; and other family and friends.

Paulette was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Mike Heidy.

Donations can be made to Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary at 445-1680 or Second Chance at (660) 841-5565.


Published Thursday, November 17, 2011

Marilyn H. Hummel Roberts, 75, wife of Dr. Don Roberts, passed away Monday evening, Nov. 14, 2011, in Overland Park, Kan.

Graveside service and burial for family will be Saturday, Nov. 19, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Johnson County Chapel in Overland Park.

The couple moved from Columbia to Overland Park in 1972, when Dr. Roberts became an administrator in the Shawnee Mission School District, and Marilyn became first a Girl Scout adviser and later a music teacher in the Blue Valley School District.

Marilyn, born Sept. 3, 1936, in Monett to Lynn Ellis and Ruth Ridgway Hummel, moved with her family to Columbia and attended Jefferson Junior High School and graduated from Hickman High School in 1954. She received a master’s degree in music education from the University of Missouri in 1957 and married Don Roberts, son of Ray M. and Julia Blanche Edwards Roberts, on Dec. 28, 1957.

Marilyn participated in the Kansas City Chorus of Sweet Adelines for 25 years, participating several times in international competition. She began teaching piano at 16 years old, retiring two years ago, and taught music in the Blue Valley School District at Stillwell, Morse and Indian Valley elementary schools.

Surviving are her husband; four children, David Lynn and wife Sheryl Flatt Roberts of Paola, Kan., Deborra Louise Roberts and husband Steve Parks of Frisco, Texas, Michael Ray and wife Jill Ann Kratchman Roberts of Grandview and Mark Hummel and wife Joanne Davies Roberts of Olathe, Kan.; nine grandchildren, Chris Roberts of Gardner, Kan., Kelly Roberts Riddle and husband Andrew of Spring Hill, Kan., Cory and wife Marisa Kratzberg Roberts of Gardner, Kan., Mackenzie Roberts and husband Stefan Miller of Olathe, Kan., Philip and wife Phoebe Michels Roberts of Nashua, N.H.; and Spencer, Lauren, Natalie and Grace Roberts, children of Mark and Joanne; and four great-grandchildren, Maggie, Megan and Macy Riddle, and Lindley Roberts, daughter of Cory and Marisa.

Donations may be made in honor of Marilyn to the charity of donor’s choice.


Published Thursday, November 17, 2011

James Edward Hickem III, 17, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at Grace Bible Church, 601 Blue Ridge Road in Columbia. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the church.

James Edward Hickem III was born Sept. 19, 1994, in Columbia, the son of Mary Elizabeth Green Logan and James Edward Hickem Jr.

Jamon, as he was affectionately known to his friends, was a junior at Hickman High School. He enjoyed skateboarding, tattoos, being with his friends and also wearing his hair long.

Survivors include his mother, Elizabeth Logan; his father, Herman Hickem (Tammy Redden); maternal grandparents James and Mary Green; paternal grandparents James and Barbara Hickem; three brothers, Cray D. Logan, Gary Gibson and Brandon Redden; one sister, Latisha Hickem; a host of aunts and uncles; and many other family and friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Online condolences may be left at nilsonfuneralhome.com.


Published by the Jefferson City News Tribune, Friday, November 25, 2011

Karen L. Pletz, age 64 years, of Kansas City, Mo., passed away Tuesday, November 22, 2011, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. She was born September 28, 1947, in Kansas City, Mo., the daughter of R. Marvin and Virginia Lee Harmon Owens, of Columbia, Mo. On December 26, 1975, she was united in marriage to John S. (Jack) Pletz, of Jefferson City.

She is a graduate of the University of Missouri (B.S. Education, 1969, Juris Doctorate, 1978). She received the College of Education Alumni Award in 1998, and she was again honored in 2002, with the Faculty Alumni Award for outstanding achievement. Karen passed the Missouri Bar in February, 1978, and began work for Central Bank. In 1983 and 1984, she practiced law as a partner with Cook, Vetter, Doerhoff, and Pletz, returning to Central Bank Company as a Senior Vice President in 1984, heading the Trust and Financial Management Division, the Retail Banking Division, and the Marketing Division.

Active in community service throughout her career, she served on the Boards of the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce, The United Way, the SMHC Board of Regents, and the Memorial Hospital Board of Governors. She was active in the establishment of the SMHC Foundation and served as its first President. She chaired the Jefferson City Area United Way Campaign in 1984, and again in 1993, both times surpassing the goal. She was a graduate of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking (1987) and a recipient of the Honors Library Award for her thesis, which remains a permanent part of the Harvard Business Library collection.

She left Jefferson City in 1995, when she was named to the Presidency at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, serving there until December, 2009. She was committed to excellence in medical education and to urban redevelopment, making KCUMB a catalyst for positive change in the greater Kansas City community.

During her 16 years in Kansas City, she served on the Boards of Kansas City Southern, Commerce Bank, and Missouri Employers Mutual. She chaired the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce (2004), the Kansas City Area Development Council (2008), and the Civic Council of Kansas City (2009), and gave countless hours of service to a wide variety of nonprofit organizations, including The Greater Kansas City Area United Way, chairing the Campaign in 2007, for the third time exceeding the community goal. She was a longtime member of the Boards of Health Midwest, Midwest Bioethics, the Arts Council of Kansas City, Rockhurst University, Stowers Institute, The Great Rivers Council of The Boy Scouts of America, and the American Osteopathic Foundation. She was appointed to the inaugural Board of the Healthcare Foundation of Kansas City, and she chaired the Governor's Roundtable on Education in 2002. A tireless advocate for the underserved, she received the Central Exchange Kansas City's Woman of the Year Award (2004), the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce Athena Award (2007), and the Jewish Community Relations Award (2009), honoring her service in the advancement of human rights throughout her career, among many other awards.

Karen had grace, courage, and a genuine concern for others. She will be missed. She is survived by her husband, Jack Pletz of Jefferson City; two daughters, Brittany E. Marten and her husband, Anthony of Chicago and Casey L. Pletz, of Kansas City; her parents, R. Marvin and Virginia Owens of Columbia; her two sisters, Susan L. Dasta, D.O. of Kansas City and Leslie A. Owens of St. Louis; and her granddaughter, Alexandra Elizabeth Marten.

Friends will be received from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 26, 2011, at St. Stanislaus Church in Wardsville, Mo. Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Stanislaus Church with the Reverend Michael Coleman and the Reverend Gregory Meystrik officiating. Private graveside services will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the United Way of Central Missouri Foundation or The Greater Kansas City Area United Way. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary. www.freemanmortuary.com


Published Friday, December 2, 2011

Helen Marie Ousley, 88, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2011, at her home.

A private gathering with family and friends will be held. Helen will be laid to rest at Columbia Cemetery.

Helen was born July 17, 1923, in Columbia to Berryman and Ruby Allen. She married Robert Ousley on March 7, 1943, and he preceded her in death on Sept. 22, 1999. Helen worked as an assistant to the president of GTE in Grinnell, Iowa.

Survivors include eight nieces and nephews, Lindsey Allen Stewart, Jill Allen Williams, Jodi Allen Mendieta, David Brett Allen, Billy Ousley, Jennifer Weiss, Jeffery Ousley and Kathleen Manning-Ousley.

Memorials may be given to Pascal Pals and Smile Train.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Sunday, January 15, 2012

Randall Carey Rule, 70, died Nov. 23, 2011, in Kingsland, Ga., the result of a massive stroke.

Cremation has taken place, and there will be no services per his wishes.

He was born Nov. 23, 1940, in Columbia to William Herbert Rule and Lula Imogene Hill Rule. He was a 1958 graduate of Hickman High and attended the University of Missouri. He married Delores Jean Bea on May 14, 1963. He retired after 20 years in the U.S. Air Force with two tours in Vietnam. He later retired from General Dynamics.

He is survived by his wife of Kingsland; daughters, Leslie Henline (Steve) of Jacksonville, Fla., and Lori Rule of Orange Park, Fla.; granddaughter, Samantha Henline of Jacksonville, Fla.; sisters, Treva Pugh of Columbia and Rayma Jo Smith (Harold) of California, Mo.; uncle, Harold Hill of Columbia; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Max Woods; brother, Ronald Rule; and nephew, Bob Masters.


Published Friday, December 2, 2011

Nicole Jean Vanderlip, 18, of Columbia, formerly of Jackson, Mich., died Thursday, Nov. 24, 2011, in an automobile accident.


Nicole Vanderlip
Memorial service will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Pathway Memorial Funeral Home in Moberly. The family will receive guests from 1 p.m. until time of service Saturday.

She was born Sept. 23, 1993, in Oklahoma City to Marvin G. and Lisa M. Clevenger Vanderlip.

Nicole attended Northwest Schools in Jackson from kindergarten to 10th grade and then Hickman High School in Columbia. She had just been accepted at Columbia College.

Survivors include her daughter, Kamri Gwen Vanderlip; her parents, Marvin and Lisa Vanderlip; brothers Michael Dyer and Stephen Vanderlip; maternal grandfather Ron (Brigitte) Clevenger; many aunts and uncles; and a niece and a nephew.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Gene Vanderlip; paternal grandmother Judy Nelson; and a maternal grandmother, Stephanie Stewart.

Memorial contributions are appreciated to the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.


Published Monday, November 28, 2011

Robert Dwayne Watson, 78, of Columbia passed away Saturday, Nov. 26, 2011.

Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 30, at Locust Grove Cemetery.

Robert Dwayne Watson was born April 28, 1933, in Columbia, the son of Buford M. and Ophelia Stone Watson. He married Viola Sue Griggs June 1, 1951, in Arkansas.

Mr. Watson was one of the first licensed plumbers in Columbia. He loved animals and the outdoors. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed hunting as a young man.

He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.

Survivors include his wife, Sue; one son, Robert Dwayne Watson II (Tanya); one sister, Ruth Elaine Watson Buchanan (George); brother Roger West; seven grandchildren, Amanda Sue, Erin LaRae, Carrie Lynn, Johnathan Montgomery, Nicole Lynn, Dylan Jacob and Ethan Daniel; and eight great-grandchildren.

Online condolences may be left at nilsonfuneralhome.com.


WRITTEN AND PROVIDED TO SENTINEL-TRIBUNE TUESDAY, 29 NOVEMBER 2011 10:17
Cherie "Jan" Patton, 71, formerly of Findlay and Bowling Green, Ohio and Seven Lakes, North Carolina, passed away Saturday, November 26, 2011. She was born October 7, 1940 in Mountain Grove, Missouri, the youngest of five.

Jan received her B.S. from the University of Missouri at Columbia, M.Ed. and Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Bowling Green State University. Jan began her career as a Junior High and High School teacher in the Missouri and Bowling Green public schools. She advanced in her career as Assistant Superintendent then Superintendent in the Findlay (Ohio) City Schools.

In 1991, Jan and her husband Bob moved to Portland, Maine, where she served as the Principal at Deering High School until her retirement in 1994 when she and Bob moved to Seven Lakes, NC.

Jan was involved with many national, state, and regional professional organizations. She was the President of Phi Delta Kappa from 1988-89, conceptualized and implemented writing lab recognized as national model by National council of Teacher of English, and was one of 25 "Accomplished Graduates" selected for Bowling Green State University 100,000th Graduate Celebration. She was involved with the Findlay/Hancock County (Ohio)P: Rotary International, Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Council on Domestic Violence, Crime Prevention Board, Area Arts Council (President, 1985-86), United Way, Planned Parenthood, PEO, Historical Society funding drives, Black Studies, and Library
Association.

Jan loved teaching, making a difference, and was very dedicated to her profession. She loved water-skiing, working on her award-winning flower beds in North Carolina, sewing, collecting Nutcrackers, collecting antiques, and watching movies. She always enjoyed holidays with her family, especially making her traditional noodles.

Jan battled COPD and emphysema but did not let her disease define her as she always remained active.

Jan was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; parents, James and Beulah Chevalier; and longtime cat, Katie. Jan will be missed by her son, James Robert Patton; sisters, Juilane (Freeman) Van Houten, Moberly, MO and Jimilee Patterson, Springfield, Ill; brothers, Bob (Sandy) Chevalier, Harrisonville, MO and Jerry (Carol) Chevalier, Normal, Ill; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held in the spring of 2012 at Oak Grove Cemetery and First United Methodist Church in Bowling Green, Ohio.

Contributions may be made in Jan's memory to a scholarship for a female graduate of Findlay High School who is going into education, c/o Treasurer of Findlay City Schools, Findlay, OH 45840.

Arrangements entrusted to Schoedinger Worthington Chapel, Columbus, OH (614) 848-6699. To share memories of Jan, visit www.schoedinger.com.


Published Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Sharon Kaye Hardiman, 55, of Columbia left her earthly home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, Nov. 27, 2011, in North Carolina with her son and his family.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2, at Progressive Missionary Church. Burial will take place at Simpson Chapel Cemetery.

Sharon was born Feb. 21, 1956, to Shannon and Minnie Hickem in Columbia. Sharon was raised in Columbia and also lived in Callaway County. Sharon attended school in Columbia and Fulton. She worked in the nursing field and the McCambridge Center. She was a member of Progressive Missionary Church and served in several activities, as well as singing in the choir.

Sharon was united in marriage to Jesse Brown and later to Norman Hardiman. She was a devoted wife, mother and sister.

Sharon was preceded in death by her son, Michael Hickem; parents; grandparents; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Survivors include two sons, Jesse (Megan) Brown and Damion Brown; grandchildren Caleielgh JenaI, Michael Kenneth, Jayden Armon and Damion Brown Jr.; five sisters, Cora (Howard) Turner, Bessie Williams, Margaret (Willie) Hickem and Patricia (Marcus) Bentley and Sharon Fultz; six brothers, Donald (Debbie) Hickem, David Hickem, William Hickem, Raymond Hickem, Shannon (Debbie) Hickem and Preston Blair; four aunts, Jennie Johnson, Mary Finch, Maxine Hickem and Minnie Rollins; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.


Published Friday, December 2, 2011

Steve Dean Smith, 52, of Bull Shoals, Ark., passed away Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2011, after his courageous seven-month battle with cancer, at his home.

Funeral services for Mr. Smith will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Burns Funeral Home Chapel in Yellville, Ark., with Jimmy Bell and Curt McLaughlin officiating. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until service time Saturday. A graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 5, at Spring Valley Cemetery in Moorhead, Iowa. Pallbearers will be Bart Schad, Paul Meleen, Josh Stricker, Joe Colston, John Stricker and Bill Leanard. Honorary pallbearers will be Hugh Dewey and Barry Day.

He was born April 12, 1959, in Chillicothe to Dean Layton and Marguerite Rhea Sidden Smith. He was director of marketing for Ranger Boats, coming to Arkansas in 2004 from Spirit Lake, Iowa. Steve dedicated his career life to the boating and fishing industry, working for Pure Fishing, Yamaha Outboard Motors and Ranger Boats Manufacturing.

He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, a 1977 graduate of Hickman High School in Columbia, a graduate of Columbia College with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, a certified purchasing manager from 1988 to 1998, vice president of programs — APICS Mid-Missouri Chapter, a member of the Purchasing Management Association of St. Louis and past president of the Purchasing Association of Central Missouri. He also owned Tombstone Tackle of Columbia and was active in tournament bass fishing.

He is survived by his wife, Cathryn of the home; daughter Marlo Colston of Madison, Mo.; his mother, Marguerite Smith of Jefferson City; brother Scott Smith of Jefferson City; sister Kristi Stricker, of Vancouver, Wash.; and six grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dean Smith.

In addition to floral arrangements, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, Tenn., 38148-0142


Published Saturday, December 3, 2011

Frieda Cathey-Willis, “Nanny,” 86, of Columbia passed away peacefully from natural causes Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011, in Tomball, Texas, where she had resided with her daughter.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 5, at Memorial Funeral Home with visitation from 1 p.m. until the time of services.

Frieda was born Oct. 20, 1925, in Wheeler, Kan., to George W. and Sadie Cathey. She was one of six children.

Her family moved to Columbia in 1937. She married Dardin Leon Willis in 1947 in Columbia.

A 1943 graduate of Hickman High School, she dedicated her life to her husband and raising her children and grandchildren. She worked in the kitchen at Hickman High School as well as Parkade Elementary School and Mill Creek Elementary School, where she touched the lives of hundreds of local children.

In her spare time, she loved to bake cookies and anything else sweet. She loved to read and do crafts. She was an excellent painter and seamstress.

She enjoyed canning her own food and cooking for her family and extended family.

She was a longtime member of Christian Chapel in Columbia and most recently was a member of Victory Christian Center in Houston.
She is survived by her sister, Vinita Moreau of Columbia; daughter, Charlene Mendenhall of Tomball, Texas; son, Gary Willis and daughter in-law Leslie Rose of Columbia; grandchildren, Brandon Willis of Columbia, Courtney Daniel Fayrweather of Houston, Damon Willis of Fort Worth, Texas, Rob Daniel of Iowa, and Mark Daniel of Alabama; great-grandchildren, Emma Willis and Audra Willis of Columbia, and Joy Fayrweather, Will Fayrweather and Kate Fayrweather of Houston.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Sadie Cathey; her husband, Dardin Leon Willis, in 1982; and sisters, Jewel Cannon, Beulah Lober, June Hall and Rowena Baumgartner.

Thank you to everyone who has sent their condolences to the family during this time. As Nanny would tell us when things were tough, “This too shall pass,” the family said.

Online condolences may be left at memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Tracy Newton Dexter, 45, of Columbia passed away Sunday, Dec. 4, 2011.

A celebration of his life will be in the spring. A date, time and place will be published later.

Tracy was born April 28, 1966, in Shawnee Mission, Kan., the son of Ronald Dean and Linda Mallicoat Dexter. Tracy proudly served in the U.S. Army. He owned Ron’s Country Boy Restaurant for more than 22 years. He also enjoyed spending time on the river with friends.

Survivors include his wife, Diana; paternal grandmother Charlotte Mallicoat; two sons, Corey Dexter and Trent Tucker; three daughters, Kelsey and Ayrion Dexter and Danielle Starchman; one sister, Elise Dennis; and three grandchildren, Liam, Lori and Lillianne.

Memorial contributions may be made to Missouri River Relief or Cooper’s Landing.

Online condolences may be left at nilsonfuneralhome.com.


Published Saturday, December 10, 2011

Ralph Shelton Reddick Jr., 52, of Columbia passed away Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011.

Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 12, at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, at Parker Funeral Service.
Ralph was born June 22, 1959, in Columbia to Ralph S. Reddick Sr. and Dolores Hausherr Reddick.
Ralph graduated from Hickman High School in 1977. He attended Community United Methodist Church. He loved animals and particularly loved taking care of stray animals.

Survivors include his mother, Dolores of Columbia; a son, Ross Reddick of Columbia; two brothers, Ryan and Andrea Reddick and Scott and Kecia Reddick, all of Columbia; and nieces and nephews, Shelby, Brandon, Adam, Lane, Zane, Colton and Trace Reddick.

Online condolences may be left at www.parkerfuneralservice.com.


Published Sunday, December 11, 2011

Larry W. Renfro, 73, of Columbia passed away Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011.

A visitation will be held on Friday, Dec. 16, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Renfro family home. A graveside service will be held at a later date.

Larry was born July 9, 1938, in Columbia to Ira and Lola Butler Renfro. He married Gloria McBaine on June 12, 1960, at Calvary Baptist Church in Columbia, and she survives.

He worked at Shelter Insurance for 42 years. He was a longtime St. Cardinals fan and played and loved the game of baseball. He was a train enthusiast, an avid coin collector and loved spending time caring for his home and yard. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

Larry is survived by one son, Scott Renfro of Columbia; one daughter, Suzanne Autenrieth and her husband, Mark, of Columbia; grandchildren, Alex, Jakob and Sydnie; one sister, Brenda Russom and her husband, Roy, of Wall Lake, Iowa; his mother, Lola of Wall Lake; and several nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his father in 1957.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Midway Heights Baptist Church Building Fund, 6801 W. Rollingwood, Columbia, Mo. 65202; or to Systemic Scleroderma Research, 220 Montgomery St., Suite 1411, San Francisco, Calif. 94104.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Monday, December 12, 2011

John Michael “Mike” Brooks, 64, died Friday, Dec. 9, 2011, in Columbia.

A private memorial to celebrate and honor Mike’s life will take place in Columbia.

The son of Harold and Dorothy Brooks, Mike was born May 4, 1947, in Macon. The family moved to Columbia in 1957. Mike graduated from Hickman High School in 1965 and attended Truman State University in Kirksville.

After his U.S. Air Force service, Michael worked at the Tribune in the classified ads department and then spent many years in marketing and sales and customer relations in Florida and Kansas City. He returned to Columbia from Overland Park, Kan., in 1993. He enjoyed puttering around his home and watching old movies, the Missouri Tigers and NFL football.

Mike is survived by his sister, Shirley Ranum and husband David of Macon; and brother Steven Brooks and wife Rebecca of Columbia. He was preceded in death by his wife, Priscilla Gibbons Brooks, in 1993.

Expressions of sympathy may be extended to Mike’s family at www.heartlandcremation.com.


Published in The Columbian on December 11, 2011 in Vancouver, Washington
Margaret McCluskey
August 30, 1923 - December 2, 2011

Margaret Borth McCluskey, 88, a Missouri native who chose to live in Vancouver, Washougal, Pendleton, Portland and Cannon Beach for the natural beauty, died Dec. 2 in a bus accident in downtown Vancouver, WA. She was on her way to a history class on the Chinese Communist Revolution at Clark College with homemade gingersnaps labeled for her instructor.

She graduated from University of Missouri School of Journalism in 1944 and worked as a correspondent at the Prospect News in Doniphan, MO, where Margaret and her husband, Max Shemwell Sr. raised their children. She also worked at the Daily American Republic in Poplar Bluff, MO and as a stringer for the AP and UPI. She was a US Forrest Service employee and joined the Peace Corps at age 65 and was posted to Tunisia.

Always seeking a new vista, Margaret moved to Portland, OR in 1980 and later moved to Pendleton, Cannon Beach, Washougal and Tucson, AZ.

Margaret, whose last address was at Esther Short Commons, in Vancouver, WA, volunteered most recently with the Fort Vancouver Heritage Garden. A woman who always had a project, her most recent endeavor was to make sure the sidewalk around the Esther Short Commons was cleaned of litter. She was most proud of helping to facilitate a new effort by the City of Vancouver to post overnight no-parking signs at the 10 parking meters on 8th Street in front of the building to allow the street sweeper to get close to the curb.

Relentlessly curious and fiercely independent, Margaret kept up with current events, movies and books and corresponded with people all over the world. She took part in Sierra Club, Vancouver Peace Summit, numerous marches in Vancouver and Portland, and in socially and environmentally progressive causes. She relished the Lifelong Learning program at Clark College and enjoyed taking the pedestrian walkway along the Columbia River.

She had been a volunteer with Court Appointed Special Advocates in Vancouver and had tutored immigrants in English.

Margaret is survived by her four children: Susan Swickard (Joe) of Grosse Pointe, MI, John Shemwell (Tricia) of San Diego, CA, Amy Erickson (Dan) of Interlaken, NY and Max Shemwell (Elizabeth) of Tucson, AZ; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; her brother, Willis McCluskey of Columbia, MO; and her sister, Mary Alice Simon of St. Louis, MO.

According to her wishes, there will be cremation and family and friends will gather at a later time for burial at sea.

Please sign Margaret's guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.

Dianna Beth Purcell Buckingham, 67, of Denver, Colorado, passed away quietly at her home December 11, 2011.

Dianna was born August 21, 1944.

She is survived by her children: Chad, Chris and Cathy Buckingham


Published Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Edith Margaret Wills, 90, of Centralia died Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, at Stuart House in Centralia.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, at Fenton Funeral Home, with the Rev. Joe Jimerson, pastor of First Christian Church in Centralia, officiating.

Edith was born April 9, 1921, in Columbia, the daughter of Bert and Ettie Maude Connor Carnes.

On Jan. 20, 1941, she was married in Huntsville to James Howard Wills, and he preceded her in death.

She was a graduate of Hickman High School in Columbia and a member of First Christian Church in Centralia.

Survivors include two daughters, Anna Margaret Cathey and husband Robert of Hallsville and Nancy Sue McAfee and husband Larry of Excello; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Howard Wayne Wills; one brother; and two sisters.

The family suggests memorials to Centralia Senior Center, 211 W. Burton St.


Published Thursday, December 22, 2011

Donald L. Wilmoth, 74, of Columbia, passed away on Monday, Dec. 19, 2011.

Funeral services will be at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 24, at Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, at the funeral home.

Don was born on Aug. 1, 1937, in Oklahoma City to Marvin Lee and Elaine Eakens Wilmoth. He married Reve Cunard on Oct. 27, 1957, at First Baptist Church in Columbia. Don and his parents moved to Columbia when he was a senior in high school.

He graduated from Hickman High School and then attended the University of Missouri.

He was owner/agent at Don Wilmoth Insurance Agency for 33 years. He served two years in the U.S. Army at 5th Army Headquarters in Chicago. He then returned to Columbia and continued in the insurance business. After retiring from the insurance agency, he and his wife began in the antique business.

He survived by his wife, Reve, of Columbia; one son, Tim Wilmoth, and his wife, Robin, of Columbia; one daughter, Kelly Willis, and her husband, Ty, of Sammamish, Wash.; and five grandchildren, Ric Wilmoth, Monica Wilmoth, Bethanie Willis, Madison Willis and Shelby Willis.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Dean.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Friday, December 30, 2011

Fred L. Baker, 73, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011.

Funeral services will be at noon Saturday, Dec. 31, at Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, at Memorial Funeral Home.

Fred was born Feb. 4, 1938, in Columbia, to Jim and Mary Moreland Baker. Fred married Donna Colter Feb. 14, 1958, in Hartsburg. He was a member of the Eagles Club of Columbia. His favorite summer past time was fishing at the family cabin in Moberly with friends and family. He was an avid poker player and loved a good time.

Fred is survived by one son, Greg Baker and his wife, Lynne, of Ashland; one granddaughter, Andi Glidewell and her husband, Nick, of Columbia; one great-grandson, Maddox Glidewell; and many friends who will miss him greatly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Mary Baker; and his wife, Donna Colter Baker.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Tributes can be left online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.


Published Sunday, January 1, 2012

Published Sunday, January 1, 2012

Paul Allen Medley, 77, of Fulton died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, in Columbia.

A memorial service will be at 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, at Broadway Christian Church in Columbia.

Paul was born July 13, 1934, in Moberly to Carl and Cleo Medley. He married his wife, Vicki, on Nov. 6, 2003.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Paul Allen Medley Jr. (Sarah) of Columbia; stepson, Les Austin (Taressa) of Columbia; daughter, Margaret Murray (Dan) of Wichita, Kan.; stepdaughter, Lisa Barnum (Jeff) of Gilbert, Ariz.; sister, Carlene Ingram of Springfield; and eight grandchildren.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents.

Paul graduated from Hickman High School in 1952 and the University of Missouri in 1960, with a bachelor’s degree in business and public administration. He was a member of Phi Delta Theta. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1957.

In 1964, Paul founded Little Dixie Construction Co. in Columbia. This began a long series of businesses and ventures in and around the construction industry.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorial contributions to the Columbia Humane Society or Hospice Compassus in Columbia.


Published in Kansas City Star on January 4, 2012

WILLIAM K. "BILL" CRANE

Bill Crane went home to be with his Savior on December 31, 2011.

Visitation will be 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, at First Baptist Church of Raytown, with a memorial service to follow. Burial will be at Mt. Moriah Freeman Cemetery.

Bill was born in Columbia, Mo., to Cecil and Lena Crane on March 29, 1920. After graduating from Hickman High School, he attended MU and was a lifetime Tiger fan.

Bill joined the Navy in 1942 and served until 1946 on Majuro Island. After the service, he began working as a field investigator for Retail Credit/Equifax for 43 years. In retirement, he worked for O'Reilly driving a delivery truck until he was 88 years old.

We will remember the funny stories, jokes and sweet prayers he loved to share. We will miss those blue eyes and his little blue cap he wore every day.

Bill will be missed by his loving wife of 64 years, Wilda, his daughter, Cinda and her husband Bruce, three grandchildren with their spouses, and eight great-grandchildren as well as a multitude of friends and members of his church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Heart of America Christmas Pageant at First Baptist Church of Raytown.

Arr.: Missouri Funeral Care, (816) 353-1700. Missouri Funeral Care, 6113 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO 64133, (816) 353-1700



















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