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KEWPIES' FAMILY MEMORIAL PAGE

KEWPIE MEMORIAL PAGE

With Sympathy

Kewpie Family Deaths 2023
 "If you have lost Kewpie, family or friends, since September 1998, when this webpage began, please contact me."
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Courtesy of Charley Blackmore, Kewpie Classmates Association
For any corrections or additions, please send email to:
charley@kewpie.net
or call: 573-442-1873

CHARLEY BLACKMORE
2312 DEER CREEK CT
COLUMBIA MO  65201-3564




 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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"
Frank D. Bolander, father of Claire Bolander (Class of 1999) passed away on Wednesday, September 20th, 2023.

Marie "Sue" Gruenefeld, mother of Lisa Gruenefeld (Class of 1994) and Kevin Gruenefeld (Class of 2002) passed away Saturday, September 9, 2023.

Sandy Gordon, wife of John Gordon (Class of 1960) passed away Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at Lenoir Woods in Columbia.

Laura Marie Thurman, wife of Donald Thurman (Class of 1968)  passed away Sunday,  August 20, 2023.

Roxie Grant, mother of Kay Pipes Haymart, deceased (Class of 1962), Jerry Grant (Class of 1964), Gary Wayne Grant, deceased (Class of 1972) and Danny Grant (Class of 1981)  passed away Friday, August 4, 2023.

Allen Talbert Hjelmfelt, Jr., father of Allen Hjelmfelt III (Class of 1982), Eric Hjelmfelt (Class of 1984), Allison Anderson (1988), and Joel Hjelmfelt, deceased (Class of 1991) passed away Wednesday, August 2, 2023.

Robert Lee "Bob" Haas, husband of Judy Hutchison, deceased (Class of 1959) passed away  Saturday,July 29, 2023.

Melferd Edward (Mel) Bartel, father of Cyndy Crider (Class of 1969) and Nancy Cooper (Class of 1974) passed away Friday, July 28, 2023.

Marjorie Carol Comley, mother of Ronald Comley (Class of 1979), Marla Merritt (Class of 1980) and James Comley (Class of 1983) passed away on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at her home in Columbia.

Marvin E Benthall, father of Marvin Dean Benthall, decased (Class of 1977) and Dan E. Benthall (Class of 1980) passed away on Saturday, July 15, 2023.

Marvin E. “Bunky” Wright, father of Randall Carter Wright (Class of 1981) and Tracey A. Wright Pfeiffer (Class of 1985) passed away Friday, July 14, 2023, in Columbia, Missouri.

Bill Wickersham, father of Beth Bauman (Class of 1976) passed away  Friday, July 14th, 2023.

Janice Kovar Eimer, sister of James Kovar, deceased (Class of 1975)  passed away Monday, July 10, 2023.

Denise Elaine Christianson, mother David Christianson (Class of 1977), Harry Christianson (Class of 1979), Mardeana Johnson (Class of 1982) and Carmen Harms (Class of 1986) passed away Thursday, July 6, 2023, at her home in Columbia Missouri.

Kenneth Laurence Kuebler, father of  Bruce Kuebler (Class of 1985), Kevin Kuebler (Class of 1986) and Michelle Cuervo (Class of 1994) died unexpectedly. Monday, July 3, 2023, at his home in Jefferson City, Missouri.

Patricia J. Luedders, mothe of Matthew (Class of 1986), Joel (Class dof 1988) and Sarah (Class of 1989) died Saturday, July 1, 2023.

Joan Menge Foreman, mothe of Paul Foreman (Class of 1972) and Steve Foreman, deceased (Class of 1975) passed away Sunday, June 25, 2023.

Dale William Francis, father of Dale William Francis, Jr. (Class of 1988) passed away Sunday, June 25, 2023.

Peggy Jean Bohnenkamp, mother of  James, deceased (Class of 1970), David (Class of 1971), John, deceased (Class of 1973) Beth (Class of 1975), Danny, deceased (Class of  1977) Amy (Class of 1980) passed away Friday, June 23, 2023.

Evelyn Oline Butler, sister of Celestine Guyton Hayes (Class of 1960) passed away Tuesday, June 20th, 2023, at University of Missouri Healthcare Center.

Doris Jean(Wyss) Bartolacci,mother of Mike (Class of 1981), Kevin(Class of 1982) and Mark (Class of 1983)  passed away at home in Columbia, Friday, June 16, 2023.

Peggy Sue Evans Franklin,  mother of Tonya L Franklin Schnell (Class of 1979) died  Friday June 16, 2023, at  Caring Hearts and Hands hospice home in Columbia.

William R. (Bub) Clayborne, father of Myra Clayborne Cason (Class of 1981), Twila Clayborne-Walls (Class of 1983) and Tracy Clayborne (Class of 1989) and brother of Roy Lee Clayborne, deceased (Class of 1963) passed away on Monday, June 12, 2023, at Boone Hospital Center.

Robert Rowe Hurst, Ph.D., father of Debra Allyn Hurst Class of 1976), William Rowe Hurst (Class of 1979) and David Robert Hurst (Class of 1980)  passed away on Sunday June 11, 2023, at the Lenoir Woods Assisted Living Center in Columbia.


Ronald Paul Steen, father of Marla Perryman (Class of 1983) passed away Sunday, June 11, 2023 at his home in Columbia, Missouri.

Richard Alan Finkelstein, father of Sarina Finkelstein (Class of 1998) died at home in Columbia, Missouri Thursday, June 8, 2023.

Micheal J. Arenella Jr., father of Steven Arenella (Class of 1988) passed in Columbia.

Thomas Roy "Tom" Gottsman, father of Jennifer Smith (Class of 2005) died Monday, June 5, 2023, at his home in Columbia.

Viola Sue Watson, wife of Robert Watson, deceased (Class of 1951) passed away Monday, June 5, 2023, at Riverdell Care Center in Boonville, Missouri.

Ralph Jerome Cox, father of Norman Cox (Class of 1984) and Denise Riley (Class of 1987) passed away Thursday,  June 1, 2023.

Anna May Creech, mother of  Diana May Bond (Class of 1989) and Sylvia Jane Taylor (Class of 1992) passed away Monday, May 29, 2023.

Dorothy F. Anderson, mother of  Carl Anderson (Class of 1970), Vernon Anderson (Class of 1973) and  Betty Stiefel (Class of 1976) passed away Saturday, May 27, 2023 at The Neighborhoods in Columbia.


Carolyn K. “Carol” (Wright) Krause, wife of Mike Krause, deceased (Class of 1961) passed away on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at her home in Columbia.

Carl Henry Niewoehner, father of Eric Niewoehner (Class of 1973) passed away Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at his home in Columiba.

Henry C Semon, father of John Semon (Class of 1973) and Jill Semon-Clark (Class of 1977) passed away Saturday, May 20, 2023.

Dorothy Puidk, mother of Jessica Puidk (Class of 1999), Sarah Puidk (Class of 2000), Courtney Puidk (Class of 2004) and Rachel Holzman (Class of 2004) passed away Thursday, May 18, 2023 at Columbia Manor, in Columbia.

Billie Vinee Arbuckle Cottle, wife of Ken Cottle (Class of 1953), passed away Monday, May 15, 2023.

Leon C. Guyton, father of Jason (Class of 1990) and Tina (Class of 1992) passed away Sunday, May 14, 2023.

William Elmer Mueller, father of Alan Mueller (Class of 1980), Mike Mueller (Class of 1983) and Steven Mueller (Class of 1984) passed away Wednesday, May 10, 2023 in Jefferson City, Missouri.

Bonita "Bonnie" Winberg, mother of Justin Gregory (Class of 1992) passed away at her home in Ashland, Missouri, Friday, May 5th, 2023.

Carol Louise Hull, mother of William Hull (Class of 1969)passed away Sunday, April 30, 2023, in Pensacola, Florida.

Billy Neil Day, father of Billy Day (Class of 1974), Michael Day (Class of 1976), Tamara Day Callahan (Class of 1977), Jeffrey Day (Class of 1980) and  Jeanenne Day (Class of 1982) passed away  in Fulton, Missouri on Saturday, April 22, 2023.

Dr. John Henry Kultgen, father of John (Class of 1968), Mary (Class of 1973) and Rebecca (Class of 1975) passed away Thursday, April 20th.

Helen Beatrice Kelly, mother of  John Carl Kelly (Class of 1960) and  Rodney Quinn Kelly, deceased (Class of 1968) passed away Wednesday, April 19, 2023.

Dr. Dorothy “Dottie” Llewellyn Rodgers, mother of Susan (Class of 1963) Kathy (Class of 1973), David Class of 1974) Ann, deceased (Class of 1976) and Mary, poor thing (Class of 1978) from Rock Bridge.  passed away Sunday, April 16, 2023 in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Ronald H. Freeman, father Leslie Taub (Class of 1994) passed away Thursday, April 13, 2023.

Bernice Williams Wulff, mother of Linda Wulff Risner (Class of 1973) and  Susan Turner (Class of 1975) passed away Thursday, April 13, 2023.

Arthur Edward Gaus, fahter of Sharon Lissette Gaus (Class of 1970) and Alvan Glen Gaus (Class of 1979) passed away on Friday, April 7, 2023.

Carla Waal Johns, mother of Susan Graber (Class of 1971), David Johns (Class of 1974) and Amy Johns (Class of 1979) passed away Thursday,  March 30, 2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Eva Jean Crowson, mother of Sandra C Mead (Class of 1974), Robert J Crowson II (Class of 1976), Craig S Crowson (Class of 1978), Paul M Crowson (Class of 1979) and Kimberly A Delfino (Class of 1984) passed away Tuesday, March 28, 2023,  in her home in Columbia.

Randall Brown Johnston, brother to Lynn Benson (Class of 1963),  Grace Elder (Class of 1968) and  Phil Johnston (Class of 1972)  passed away Tuesday, March 28, 2023.

Arvine Eubanks, father of Adrienne Eubanks (Class of 1975) passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023.

Donald Dee Waller, father of Pam Waller (Class of 1975), Tim Waller (Class of 1977) and Mark Waller (Class of 1980) passed away on Friday, March 10, 2023 at Boone Hospital Center.

James E. Porter Jr., father of Janice Porter-Posey (Class of 1969), Cynthia Thompson (Class of 1982) and Kimberley Slater (Class of 1984) passed away Wednesday,n March 8, 2023.

Dr. Roger W. (Dad) Bumgarner, father of Ann Blystone (Class of 1973), Carrie Bumgarner (Class of 1977) and Bill Bumgarner (Class of 1988) passed away at home Friday, February 24, 2023.

Lael Hunt Powers Von Holt, mother of Gardner Von Holt (Class of 1973), passed away Monday,  February 20, 2023.

Mark Allen Foreman, father of Paul Michael Foreman (Class of 1972), passed away Sunday, February 19, 2023, in Columbia.

Jeanette Ruth Leroux, mothe of Steven Leroux (Class of 1978) and Stephanie Leroux, deceased (Class of 1981) died Thursday,  February 16, 2023 in Columbia, Missouri.

Graple Louise Ross, moher of Daniel Ross (Class of 1984) passed away Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at Boone Hospital in Columbia.

Ben Frank Nelms, father of Katherine Hughes (Class of 1987)  passed away Monday, February 13, 2023, in Columbia.

Stephen M. Archer, father of Steve Archer (Class of 1978) passed away Monday, February 13, 2023 at Columbia Post Acute.

Vernon Lyle Jennings, father of Terry Hume (Class of 1973) and Doug Jennings, deceased (Class of 1978), passed away Sunday, February 12, 2023.

Robert Joel “Bob” Harris, M.D., father of Robert Jeffrey “Jeff” Harris (Class of 1983) and Julie Lee (Harris) Shaw (Class of 1986) passed away Saturday, February 11, 2023, in Columbia.

Gary Hamilton father of Jeffrey Hamilton (Class of 1995) , 80, passed away Wednesday, February 8, 2023, in Columbia.

Larry A. Hale, father of Julie Hale, deceased (Class of 1984) and Gina Ganey (Class of 1986) passed away at home Wednesday,  February 8, 2023  in Browning, Missouri.

Marie Ilene Drennan, mother of Tim Drennan (Class of 1970) passed away on Tuesday, February 7, 2023.

Janice F. Theroff, mother of Angela Theroff (Class of 1981), Ellen Theroff (Class of 1983) and Cary Theroff (Class of 1987) passed away Monday, February 6, 2023, in Saint Charles, Missouri.

Delores Fay Niles, mother of Tammy Jean Lenau (Class of 1983) passed away Monday,  February 6, 2023 at her home in Columbia.

Wanda Dohrn, mother Caroll Dohrn, Jr. (Class of 1979), Tami Murray (Class of 1982) and Lori Savage (Class of 1984) passed away Sunday, February 5, 2023 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Paul S Szopa, father of Derek Szopa (Class of  1992) and Charlene Ervin (Class of 1994) passed away Friday, February 3, 2023.

Josephine J. Kelly, mother of Dorothy Preston (Class of 1975) and E. Lynn Kelly (Class of 1983) passed away Wednesday, February 1, 2023.

Stanley Eugene Manahan, father of Valerie Manahan (Class of 1988 ) and Veronica Manahan (Class of 1990)  passed away Sunday,  January 29, 2023 in Columbia.

Charlene Doherty Jayamanne, mother of Tony Jayamanne (Class of 2003) and  Andrew Jaymanne (Class of 2008) passed away Sunday, January 29, 2023.

Thomas Odum, father of Elizabeth Odum (Class of 2004) and Emily Roper (Class of 2007)  passed away Sunday, January 29, 2023. 

Anthony Carl Wayne,father of Anthony Wayne, Jr. (Class of 1987) passed away Saturday, January 28, 2023 in Columbia.

Gertrude May Minnick Brown Combs, mother of William Combs (Class of 1977) and Melanie Combs Karrick (Class of 1982) died January 24, 2023, at her home in Columbia.

Woodie Albert McElduff, father of Jeremy McElduff (Class of 1992) passed away at his home in Columbia, Tuesday, January 24, 2023.

Roger Hubbard Allbee, Jr., brother of Robert Allbee (Class of 1953) passed away Monday,  January 23, 2023.

Randa Sue Dumas, mother of Debbie Wilson (Class of 1988) passed away Monday, January 16, 2023 at Lenoir Woods in Columbia.

Zachary Scott Curry, son of Debbie Curry Woods (Class of 1981) passed away Wednesday, January 11, 2023.

Ruth Ann Thompson, mother of Kevin Thompson, deceased (Class of 1975) and wife of Russell Thompson (Hickman High School Principal and Superintendent of School), passed away Saturday, January 7, 2023.

Doris Ann Barnes Dill, mother of Curtis Atkins, deceased (Class of 1973) passed away Friday, January 6, 2023 at University Hospital, in Columbia.

Betty Rose Musbach, mother of Larry Gene Musbach (Class of 1965) and  Linda Lou Powell Linsenbardt (Class of 1969) passed away Thursday, January 5, 2023.

Ruth Strodtman mother of Jonathan Strodman, deceased (Hickaman Soccer Coach 1999-2007) passed away Thursday, January 5, 2023.

 Deloris Johnson, mother of Jan McElroy (Class of 1968), Gary Johnson (Class of 1972) and Jim Johnson (Class of 1982) passed away Wednesday,  January 4, 2023.

Brenda Joyce Christmann, 65, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, January 3, 2022.



























Posted by Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Brenda Joyce Christmann, 65, of Columbia passed away Tuesday, January 3, 2022. A visitation will be held Saturday, January 7, 2022 from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm followed by funeral services at 2:00 pm, both at Trinity Lutheran Church.

Brenda was born May 13, 1957 in Hannibal, MO to William Thomas and Aldie Jane (Morris) Purvis. She was a graduate of Rock Bridge High School and worked as a service member at Sam’s Club. Brenda enjoyed reading, car shows, collecting Precious Moments figures, and the shows and lights at Christmas time. But all these things were made better by her love of family, friends, and her darling dog, Cody.

She is survived by her children, Michelle Ewens and Brad Christmann; siblings, Jackie Curry, Rita Christmann, and Roger Purvis; grandchildren; Alexis Christmann, Samantha Wren, Noah Wren, Katelyn Wren, Hunter Brown, Griffin Clark, and Brendan Morse; and great grandchild, Cooper Morse.

Brenda is preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Harlen, Doris, Doyld, Rebecka, and Ronald.

Posted online on January 06, 2023

Deloris Johnson, age 95, of Columbia, peacefully passed away at home surrounded by her family on January 4, 2023.

Services will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at Missouri United Methodist Church, 204 S. 9th St. in Columbia. Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed immediately by a funeral service officiated by Rev. Robert Johnson.

Deloris was born in Montauk, Missouri on October 14, 1927 to the late James Eli and Susan Lula (Foust) Cook. She was united in marriage on December 25, 1947 to Clinton L. Johnson, who preceded her death on March 8, 1988. From this union three children were born: Jan, Gary, and Jim.

Deloris was primarily a homemaker and was famous for her pecan pies. She loved making memories at the family cabin at the Lake of the Ozarks, which she and Clint started building in 1978. They also enjoyed going to St. Louis Cardinals games and notably attended the World Series in 1982.

After Clint’s passing, Deloris took multiple trips to Israel with her brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Sonja Johnson, where she planted a tree in memory of her husband. She was very involved with all of her grandchildren’s lives and loved sharing her love of Beanie Babies with them. She thoroughly enjoyed a family trip to Las Vegas on her 80th birthday, when they took her to see Celine Dion.

As her health declined, Deloris looked forward to visits from the local Meals on Wheels volunteers. Her greatest wish was to live independently and Meals on Wheels helped make that possible.

Deloris is survived by her children, Jan (Glenn) McElroy, Gary (Tammy) Johnson, and Jim (Leah) Johnson; brother-in-law, Bob Johnson; grandchildren, Erin McElroy, Ryan McElroy, Meghann Theobald, Tristan Johnson, Sara Reese, Riley Johnson, and Hayden Johnson; as well as six great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by three sisters and a brother.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels of Columbia at mealsonwheelscolumbia.org.

Online condolences may be made at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
 
Posted online on January 07, 2023

Ruth Strodtman joined the heavenly choir on January 5, 2023.

A celebration of life will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023, at Parkade Baptist Church, 2102 N. Garth Ave. Columbia, Missouri 65202, with the family greeting friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Following the service, burial will take place in Oakland Cemetery, 2929 E. Oakland Church Rd., Columbia, Missouri 65202.

Ruth Strodtman was born to Aleph Goff Pierce and Clara Mildred McCauley Pierce on October 8, 1933, in Brown Station, Missouri. She attended rural schools in Boone County Missouri and graduated from University High School in 1951, after which she attended Christian College in Columbia. She graduated from there in 1953. She then attended the University of Missouri where she received a degree in education in 1955. After she graduated, she worked in a doctor’s office in Columbia until she was hired as a music teacher in Hallsville, Missouri. She taught there until 1959.

She met her husband, David, while she was the music director at Fayette Baptist Church. She married him in June of 1958 while he was a student at the University of Missouri. They moved to Lakewood, Colorado in 1962 when David found a teaching assignment in the Denver Public Schools. After rearing three children, she taught music at Dunstan Junior High School and taught there for twenty years. During their 42 years in Colorado, Ruth was very active as a church music director, working with youth, adults, and senior adults at her home churches. She took several youth choirs to youth church competitions as well as tours to various states, including one through the state of Missouri to sing at local churches. Many of her senior choirs entertained at senior care centers in Colorado and Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, one brother, and her son, Jonathan who was a master craftsman, shop teacher, and soccer coach in Colorado and later at Hickman High School. He was married to Kay and they had four children. Ruth leaves behind her husband of 64 years, David, a son, Paul (Barbara), a daughter, Leah (David), grandchildren Grayson, Stephanie, Levi, Cassandra (Nathan), Chelsea (Dan), Garrett, Kaitlyn (Ally), William and great-grandchildren Annabelle, Harper, Rory, Evelyn, and Noah.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105

Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Strodtman Family.

Posted online on January 10, 2023

Betty Rose Musbach went to be with her Heavenly Father on Thursday, January 5, 2023, with her children and family surrounding her. Betty Rose was born July 3, 1926, in Columbia, Missouri, at Boone Hospital to George and Floy May Bright. Betty Rose married her high school sweetheart, Gene Edward Musbach, on October 14, 1945, in Columbia, Missouri. As of October 2013 they had been married for 68 years. (He passed on March 7, 2014.)

Betty Rose is survived by her son, Larry Gene Musbach (Sandi) of Wildwood, MO; her daughter, Linda Lou Powell Linsenbardt (Tom) of Lohman, MO. She is also survived by four (4) grandchildren: Laura Lee Musbach Drake, Bradley Gene Musbach (Ashley Whitesell Musbach), Amanda Lou Powell Wells Tomson (Travis), Jennifer Lou Dampf (Nathan); ten (10) great-grandchildren: Alexis Simonne Drake, Nataleigh Rose Wells, Colton Joseph Whitesell, Hayden Lee Drake, Lillian Grace Marie Whitesell, Payton McKenzie Dampf, Conner Harland Tomson, Samantha Rose Wells, Brynna Renae Dampf and Mia Ann Tomson; a sister, Nannie Lou Mallett and several special nieces and nephews also survive her.

Betty Rose is preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother, Edward K. Bright, sister-in-law, Shirley Ann Bright and brother-in-law, Jesse (Bud) Mallett.

Services will be held Saturday, January 14, 2023 at Christ The King Lutheran Church, in Lake Ozark, MO. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 am with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, a lunch will be provided by the Comfort Dog Team from Christ The King Lutheran Church. Burial will follow in Millersburg, MO.

It was Betty Rose’s wish that any memorials be given to Christ The King Comfort Dog Ministry or Hospice Compassus, Jefferson City, Missouri 65109.

Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber.com. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.

Posted online on January 10, 2023

Doris Ann Barnes Dill, 88, of Columbia passed away Friday, January 6, 2023 at University Hospital.

A visitation will be held Saturday, January 14, 2023 from 10:00 am – 11:30 am with funeral services at 11:30, both at Memorial Funeral Home, Columbia. Interment to follow at Glendale Memorial Gardens, Centralia.

Doris was born to Curtus and Annabelle Smith Barnes on August 20, 1934 in Hallsville, MO and was a graduate of Hallsville High School. She retired from the University Hospital Linen Department after 26 years of service. Doris loved to spend time with her family, friends, and her beloved four-legged fur babies, Lil B and Pip. Her hands were skilled in making candy and crocheting afghans for others to enjoy. In her later years, Doris would often be found on her iPad playing Words with Friends and keeping in touch on Facebook.

She is survived by her son, Robert (Darla) Atkins, Jr; sister, Clara Carter; grandchildren, Heather (Cord) Atkins, Lindsey (Kyle) McCoy, and Brad (Amanda) Atkins; and great grandchildren, Andrew, Brendan, Hannah, Conner, Cameron, Colleen, Ethan, Ren, Simon, Charlie; nephew Bruce (Becky) Carter, great nieces, and great great nieces & nephews, and many other loving family and friends.

Doris expressed love of her family, especially the kiddos, by saying “I love you a bushel & peck, and a hug around the neck.”

Doris was preceded in death by her parents and son, Curtus Atkins.

Donations in Doris’ memory may be made to Columbia Second Chance, www.columbia2ndchance.org or The Safetynet of Missouri, PO Box 104204, Jefferson City, MO 65101

(Venmo @SafetyNetofMissouri).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com  for the Dill family.

Posted online on January 11, 2023

Ruth Ann Thompson passed peacefully from her family’s arms into the arms of the Lord on Jan. 7, 2023. She was born on Jan. 25, 1935, to Walter and Laura Steeve in Clarinda, Iowa. She married her high school sweetheart Russell Thompson 66 years ago.

Ruth was a loving, friendly, caring and beautiful wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many. During her 87 years, she was known for her upbeat positivity and the genuine affection she showed to all. Her husband called her the joy of his life.

Throughout her youth she exhibited a range of natural talents and was involved in many school activities and organizations often in school leadership roles, as well as being a member of the cheerleading squad, crowned in beauty queen contests and was known for her musical talent. At 16, she was an ardent musician and the youngest organist in the history of a large church in her Iowa community. After moving to Columbia, she served as the organist, choir director and president of the women’s guild at Campus Lutheran Church.

As a mother, she was involved in her children’s activities and education. She served as the PTA President of the elementary, junior high schools and also at Hickman High School. She also was a secretary of the Columbia Council PTA.

Ruth was a longtime and committed member of the nonprofit King’s Daughters and was a member of the Missouri Symphony Society. She volunteered with the United Way, Heart Fund, Cancer Society and the American Red Cross.

Ruth was a people-person and they, in turn, responded to her, which no doubt played a role in her success in real estate throughout mid-Missouri. She was highly dedicated and accomplished as a realtor with ReMax Boone Realty, where she was recognized as one of the Top 100 salespeople in Mid States (Missouri and Kansas). Among her other realty accolades: Realtor of the Year, Leading monthly salesperson, Award of Excellence, BCR member of the year, the 100 Club. She was also a member of the Million Dollar Club.

Ruth was a devoted and very hands-on grandmother, reveling and participating in all of the sporting and social activities with her three grandchildren. She would always bring them surprises – usually something sweet.

Ruth is survived by her husband, Russell, daughter Lisa (Phil) Griggs of Columbia and three grandchildren: Tucker (Ashley) Griggs of Scottsdale, Arizona, Tyler Griggs of Kansas City, and Sydney (Collin) Masters of Columbia. She leaves behind a sister Leonora (Jim) Hubbard of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and a brother Bernard (Sandra) Steeve, also of Colorado Springs, as well as nieces and nephews. Ruth was preceded in death by two sons: Kevin and Russell, Jr., as well as her parents and a brother Don (Vera) Steeve.

The family would like to especially thank and recognize the professionalism and kindness of the caregivers at Lenoir Woods where she spent her final days. So much so that the day before her passing, there were smiles and laughter with her family gathered around.

Ruth and Russell are members of the United Methodist Church where a funeral service will be held in the Sanctuary at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 17, 2023 with a reception to follow.

COURTESY OF THE FAMILY
Posted by the Columbia Missourian

Zachary Scott Curry, age 37, of Hallsville, Missouri passed away January 11, 2023 after an illness. He was born on July 30, 1985 to Debbie Woods (nee Curry) in Columbia, Missouri.

Zachary loved playing guitar and played in several bands in the Columbia area.

He is survived by his parents, Lawrence Woods and Debbie Woods of Hallsville, Missouri; his biological father Greg Engstrand of York, Pennsylvania; his siblings, L.T Woods of St. Louis, Amberly Woods Schulz and Jake Woods, both of Columbia, and Isiah Woods of California; his son, Caleb Curry of Hallsville; his aunt, Jackie Curry of Columbia; and numerous uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and one aunt.

A memorial gathering will be held at the Hallsville Community Center, located at East Hwy OO, Hallsville, Missouri 65255 on January 17, 2023 from 6-8 p.m.

January 29, 2023, SUBMITTED BY DIGNITY MEMORIAL

Randa Sue Dumas, 84, passed away January 16, 2023 at Lenoir Woods in Columbia after a long life spent loving God, family, travel, and music.

Randa was born Feb. 5, 1938, in Hazen, Arkansas to Ralph and Dora Belle Sims and was one of five children. She married the love of her life, Wayne Dumas, on July 20, 1957. They had recently celebrated 63 years of marriage when he passed away on May 26, 2021. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Ralph Sims, Bill Sims (Jewel) and Joe Sims (Sybil). She is survived by her sister, Maribel McKinney (Ted), of Ruston, Louisiana, and brother-in-law Ernie Dumas (Elaine), of Little Rock, Arkansas.

Randa is also survived by four children, Ralph Dumas (Annette), Alesia Dumas (John Lewandowski) and Jackie Long (John), all of Columbia, and Debbie Wilson (Taylor), of Omaha. She had six grandchildren: Sean Dumas (Breck), Justin Dumas (Ashley), Kelsy and Slade Long, all of Columbia, and Bailey and Brielle Wilson of Omaha; four great grandchildren: Tyler, Kinsley, and Brinley Dumas of Hallsville and Drake Dumas of Columbia; she is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Randa was known for her devotion to Wayne and her giving, loving, and humorous nature. Her giggle became a staple at family gatherings, where Randa always put everyone else first. She was a carefree person—she turned her troubles over to God and went about her days without worry. In the end her faith carried her home to be with Wayne. The legacy of their love will live on in their family for generations.

Deceased’s Funeral Arrangements

A memorial service will be held at Lenoir Woods, Eppel Chapel on Saturday, Feb. 25, at 11:00 AM. Visitation begins at 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

SUBMITTED BY MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME

On January 23, 2023, at the age of 90, Roger Hubbard Allbee, Jr., faded quietly to black, as was appropriate for a man who had worked in the television industry his entire professional life. Roger started working at KOMU-TV in August, 1957, and, though he technically retired in 1992, he continued working at KOMU-TV until the week before his passing.

Roger was born at Walter Reed General Hospital, on September 16, 1932, to Roger Hubbard Allbee and Marion Moore Berry Allbee.

As Roger, joined by a younger brother, Robert, grew up, the brothers traveled internationally due to their father’s service as an Army surgeon, during and after WW2. Their travels included a stint living in Panama, travels on large ships, and many moves from Army base to Army base.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Roger joined the US Army through ROTC while earning his BA in English at MU. He became active duty in June 1955, and left the Army as a first lieutenant, in June 1957.

Though he did follow his father’s military service example, a medical career was not for him. Roger was always fascinated by electronics and loved to tinker with radios and gadgets. He applied for a job at KOMU-TV after leaving the Army and there he stayed, from the infancy days of tube television all the way to the amazing digital world of modern television. He was known for his skills in lighting and was a stickler for perfection in all things audio. In August, 1992, Roger officially retired from KOMU but the next day returned as a part-time production department employee and worked every weekday until the pandemic forced him to take a break. The break was hard for Roger because his KOMU family was his family, his familiar place, and he missed his co-workers, the j-school students, and the bustling energy that is a television station. After the pandemic slowed, Roger returned to KOMU one day each week – Wednesday – and was back at his home away from home again.

Though he was never on-the-air and the general public didn’t know him, the journalists who came to and through KOMU – professional and students – knew him well and remembered him years later when they came back to visit. He hired many people in his years as Production Manager and delighted in telling people that he hired the man who is now KOMU’s General Manager. Roger was quietly generous to many struggling young people, helping them through financial difficulties. He was always the go-to person for advice on car purchases because he loved cars. The many behind the scenes people who worked with him over the years share lots of “Roger” stories and catch phrases and will miss seeing him at the station.

In addition to his extended KOMU family and alumni, Roger is survived by his brother, Dr. Robert Allbee, and two nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister-in-law, Marion Allbee, a niece, and his beer and building stuff “son”, Brian Cottle.

His other family, Amelia Miner Cottle and Chris Cottle, would like to thank the staff at Lenoir Woods for providing a lovely community and home for Roger, and the KOMU Family for their respect and generous care for our quirky and lovable Roger.

Roger was an anonymous but very generous charitable donor to many Columbia community charities. If you would like to do so, memorial donations can directed to two organizations that Roger supported: the Greater Missouri Alzheimer’s Association – Columbia Walk (because he hated Alzheimer’s disease; see Brian’s name above) or KBIA/KMUC-Columbia for classical music programming (because he loved classical music; he chose his houses based on how music would sound in them!).

Roger requested no service.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Allbee family.

Posted online on February 21, 2023

Woodie Albert McElduff, 70, of Columbia passed away at his residence surrounded by his family on Tuesday, January 24, 2023.

He was born on February 11, 1952, in Wynne, AR to Woodie and Thelma (Brown) McElduff. Woodie was a 1970 graduate of Texas City High School in Texas City, TX who went on to attend Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX. On August 7, 1971, he was united in marriage to the love of his life Jacquelyn Lockhart in Texas City, TX. In 1972, Woodie joined the United States Navy where he would serve his country aboard the nuclear-powered submarine USS Simon Bolivar. This experience in the Navy would serve Woodie well in his civilian life, and upon being honorably discharged from the Navy in 1980 he accepted a position with the Callaway Nuclear Power Plant. Woodie went on to work in various positions throughout the years at the power plant and climbed the ranks due to his dedicated work ethic. Woodie's life changed following an accident in 2008 and he was sustained in the years that followed by Jackie's devoted care while he followed his passions.

Among Woodie's passions in life were woodworking and cooking. His cooking skills were highly regarded by all who had ever had a meal prepared by him. His specialties were clam chowder and other seafood, French onion soup and anything on the grill. His woodworking talent is evident in nearly every room of the family home. He also enjoyed traveling with Jackie, visiting the Rocky Mountains and Mexico, gardening, following all levels of soccer, supporting MU Basketball, and was a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys. He loved celebrating the 4th of July with a cookout and extended fireworks session. His greatest passion was taking care of his family.

Woodie is survived by his loving wife of 51 years Jackie McElduff of Columbia; one son Jeremy McElduff (Becky) of Leawood, KS; two sisters: Sandy Selinidis of Texas City, TX and Rita Goodwin (Jim) of Iowa Park, TX; two grandchildren: Audrey McElduff and Lem McElduff both of Leawood, KS; three godchildren: Elise Pilger of Columbia, MO, Jaime Rachell of Omaha, NE, and Stephen Welsh of Johnstown, CO; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Woodie and Thelma McElduff.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 4, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Shakespeare's Pizza West, 3304 W. Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri (https://sharefoodbringhope.org/).

Posted online on February 07, 2023

May 20, 1932 - January 24, 2023

Gertrude May Minnick Brown Combs, 90, died January 24, 2023, peacefully at home in Columbia, MO.

Gertrude, “Gertie”, was born in Independence, Missouri, on May 20, 1932, the third child and only daughter of Oley Price Minnick, Sr. and Frances Gertrude Bollinger Minnick. She graduated from Northeast High School in Kansas City in 1949 and the University of Missouri in 1955 receiving a B.S. in Education. As an all-around athlete while at Mizzou, Gertie achieved the prestigious “M Woman” status. Her favorite sport was Field Hockey where she was a goalie. In 2015, she was the oldest living recipient when Mizzou honored pre-Title IV female athletes with official letter jackets.

She was married to Fred Volney Brown on October 22, 1955, until his death in 1957. During this time she taught PE at East High School in Kansas City from 1955-1959. While at Mizzou, she and Fred became acquainted with Bob Combs in their circle of friends. Gertie always wondered if Fred had a “conversation” with Bob before his death because he became a supportive friend turned interested friend! On August 12, 1958, Gertie married Robert Glade (Bob) Combs and shared a life of 39 years. They enjoyed a life of partnership including camping, fishing, family, and church in their later years. He preceded her in death as well as her parents, two brothers, and five sisters-in-law.

The couple lived in Raleigh, N.C., and Lincoln, N.E. where he taught Electrical Engineering at North Carolina State and the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. Son William was born a Cornhusker in November 1959. In 1962, the family moved to Gainesville, F.L. where Bob earned a Ph.D. and daughter Melanie was born a Gator in April 1964. In January 1965, they returned to Columbia where Bob was a member of the Electrical Engineering faculty for over 35 years. There they enjoyed attending Mizzou athletic events as a Tiger family. The Robert G. Combs Language Preschool in Clark Hall was established and dedicated in his memory by the Columbia Valley Scottish Rite and the MU School of Health Professions after his death.

Her lifelong love of sports and children carried over into the Columbia community where she was responsible for the restart of the Columbia Parks and Recreation 4-5-6th grade girls softball program, the revival of Ban Johnson Baseball and active in the start-up of the Columbia Diamond Council. She and Bob were Junior Bowling Coaches at Town & Country Lanes for many years. From 1976-1979, she wrote a byline column for the Columbia Daily Tribune, first on bowling, then on area girls’ sports. She won state and national awards for her Tribune columns on bowling as well as for articles in “The Bugle”, the publication of the Missouri State Women’s Bowling Writer’s Association. As a result, Gertie was inducted into the Columbia Bowling Hall of Fame in 1979. She enjoyed playing recreational volleyball and softball until the age of 60 and never missed a sporting event for her children or grandchildren.

Gertie was involved throughout her life with singing groups. She was a member of the Columbia Mothersingers for over 40 years. Many now-grown children in the area will remember her portrayal in the “Around the Corner” musical number. Gertie was the “girl” with the window curtain umbrella shouting “Ooh Hoo” and chasing Henry Lee (Sally Antimi Stucker).

Gertie was a long-time member of Broadway Christian Church and served in several capacities through the years including office volunteer, Chancel Choir, Chancel Bell Choir, Elder, Stephen Minister, founder of Covenant Bible Study group, and Ensemble choir.

In May 2022, numerous family and friends shared in celebrating her 90th birthday. It was a party for the ages, and she radiated joy and gratitude for living, the essence of her life. Especially since she was a 30-year breast cancer survivor. She touched the lives of all those around her due to her cheerful, generous, welcoming, and loving spirit.

Throughout her life, Gertie was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, and Grammie. She was extremely proud of her family. She is survived by son, William Combs, daughter, Melanie Combs Karrick (Jeff Westwood), and her grandchildren Jonathan Combs and Michaela Frances Karrick. Also surviving is sister, Janice Combs Jones, Godson, Jesse Cheng, and special friend, Homer Wiederanders along with many loved ones and cherished friends.

A celebration of life will take place May 20, 2023, at Broadway Christian Church where her ashes will be interred in the Memorial Garden. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Robert G Combs Language Preschool at mizzougivedirect.missouri.edu, or Broadway Christian Church, 2601 W Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory; 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, Missouri, 65203; (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.ParkerMillard.com.

Posted online on February 04, 2023

Anthony Carl Wayne, 72, of Columbia, MO passed away on January 28, 2023 in Columbia.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday, February 24, 2023 at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65202.

Anthony was born in Columbia to Archie C. Wayne and Judith M. Wayne on September 30, 1950. He attended school in Columbia and after graduating from University of Missouri High School, he went on to serve in the National Guard. He married Ramona J. Wayne on September 26, 2009 in Columbia. He had a lengthy career as an insurance adjuster with State Farm and after retirement, his favorite pastime was working part time at Prairie Grove Shotgun Sports. He had a heart of gold and would go out of his way to help anyone he could. Anthony loved his family, was always up for a BBQ, and if he could he would throw a few jabs at you in the process. He truly was the happiest man in the world.

Anthony is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by spouse, Ramona Wayne; children, Anthony (Natalie) Wayne Jr, Corey (Gabryel) Wayne, Jennifer Hicks, and Valerie Theberge; brother, William (Susan) Wayne; grandchildren, Justin, Nathan, Noah, Sebastian, Augustus, Tyler, Auston, Alexandra, Axton, and Athon; nephew, Benjamin (Sarra) Wayne; niece, Tory Roberts; former wife, Peggy Wayne; sister in-law, Cheryl Williams; and brothers in-law, James Jennings and Joe Carrone.

Memorials may be given to the Ronald McDonald House or the Wounded Warrior Project.

The family of Anthony Wayne wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the nurses and doctors of University Hospital for their care.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Wayne family.

Posted online on January 31, 2023

8/18/1947 – 1/29/2023

Thomas Odum, 75, of Columbia, MO passed away Sunday, January 29th with his family by his side. Visitation will be 10-11am, Friday, February 3rd at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Drive in Columbia. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11am at the church followed by burial in Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.

Tom was born August 18, 1947 in St. Louis, MO to George W. and Lorraine F. Stetina Odum. In 1965, he graduated from St. John the Baptist High School in St. Louis. Just after high school, he served in the US Army. He then attended the Gradwohl School of Laboratory Technique in St. Louis. After working for several years in the laboratory at Incarnate Word Hospital, Tom felt drawn to the area of patient care. He then earned his nursing degree from St. Louis Municipal School of Nursing. On November 27, 1971 he married Beverly Mullis and they moved to Columbia, MO in 1977. Tom worked locally for 37 years as a registered nurse at Columbia Regional Hospital and University of Missouri Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

Tom was a devout Catholic and began each day with scripture, spiritual reflections, and prayer. His hobbies included fishing, camping, and hiking. He always looked forward to the Odum family and friends fishing trip. He enjoyed reading and was an avid student of history and nature.

Tom will be remembered for his compassion, storytelling, and jokes. His devotion to his wife of 51 years and daughters was reflected throughout their lives. He supported Elizabeth and Emily’s goals and activities. He rejoiced in celebrating their accomplishments and ended each day in prayer with them. He was most proud of having recently become a grandpa. Each evening he texted prayers and words of wisdom to Baby Nolan.

Tom is survived by his wife, Beverly; daughters, Elizabeth Odum of Jefferson City, and Emily (Jeff) Roper of Columbia; grandson, Nolan Roper; siblings, David (Judy) Odum, Mary (Dennis) Trueman. Steven (Irene) Odum, and Cathy (Doug) Scherrer all of St. Louis; many nieces and nephews and a loving extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents Francis and Lillian Stetina and David and Ann Odum, loving aunts and uncles, and great niece Ansley Odum.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Drive Columbia, MO 65202 or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on February 04, 2023

1/24/1953 – 1/29/2023

Charlene Doherty Jayamanne, 70, of Columbia, MO passed away Sunday, January 29th. Visitation will be Friday, February 10th at Sacred Heart Church, 105 Waugh Street Columbia, MO from 2-4:30pm and Saturday from 9-11am at the Church. Mass will follow at 11am on Saturday. Charlene’s ashes will be inurned in their family plots in New Hampshire.

Charlene was born January 24, 1953 in New Port, RI to James and Barbara Doherty Millea; she was the eldest of 8 children. For much of her childhood the family moved around for her father’s military career before they settle in Springfield, Mass. She graduated from Mercy High School in University City, MO and was a graduate of Our Lady of the Elms College in Chicopee, MA. She worked as a recruiter for the Our Lady of the Elms before leaving to pursue further education. She earned her Master’s Degree in teaching from Cleveland State University. For a short while she worked for the Chief of Surgery at Downstate Medical College in New York. In 1988, she moved to Columbia and started the Sacred Heart Montessori pre-school and daycare. In 1992, she began her Network Marketing Career with the Juice Plus Company from where she had recently retired.

She is survived by her sons; Andrew (Anna) Jaymanne of Columbia and Tony Jayamanne of Columbia; a granddaughter, Jocelyn; siblings, Barbara (Steve) Loughman of Kansas City, MO, Anna Doherty of Columbia, Helene (Jeff) Conrath of Dayton, OH, and Dan (Sandy) Doherty of St. Louis, MO; many nieces and nephews and a loving extended family. She was preceded in death by a sister, Kathy Sargent; two brother, Thomas & Jim Doherty, and her parents.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Andrews Pro-Life / 40 Days for Life 400 St. Andrew Drive Holts Summit, MO 65043.

Condolences and fond memories can be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on February 17, 2023

Stanley Eugene Manahan, age 85, passed away on January 29, 2023 in Columbia, MO. He was born on September 5, 1937 in Hillsboro, Kansas; a son of Lawrence Manahan and Ethel Blackmur Manahan. He was united in marriage to Anne Fisher on March 29, 1969 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Columbia.

After surviving a life-threatening bout of rheumatic fever that necessitated his being homeschooled for two years during childhood, Stanley regained his health and graduated from Peabody High School in 1956. He earned an AB in chemistry at Emporia State University in Kansas in 1960 and a PhD in analytical chemistry at the University of Kansas in 1965. Stanley then joined the Department of Chemistry at the University of Missouri-Columbia, where he served as thesis advisor for 30 PhD and 15 Masters candidates and taught until his retirement as a full professor in 2002. Since 1968, his primary research and professional activities in which he was considered a pioneer were in environmental chemistry, with more recent emphasis on hazardous waste treatment. He was the author of approximately 100 research papers and 18 chemistry textbooks, the most well-known being “Environmental Chemistry.” He taught courses on environmental chemistry, hazardous wastes, toxicological chemistry, and analytical chemistry and lectured on these topics throughout the United States as an American Chemical Society Local Sections tour speaker and in a number of countries, including France, Italy, Austria, Japan, Mexico, and Venezuela. Stanley also spent many summers researching and teaching in Wyoming and Michigan. In addition to his numerous textbooks, Stanley also authored a humorous book about his life in Kansas called “Lat Me Thank.”

Stanley made frequent visits to his beloved Kansas, and Estes Park, Colorado, where he felt a spiritual connection with nature. He enjoyed hiking in the Rockies, and later in life, riding his recumbent bicycle where he delighted in the occasional wildlife sighting. Always a friend to animals, he also loved his dogs, Towser, Fritz and Bunny.

Stanley is survived by his wife, Anne; daughters, Valerie Manahan (Chadwick J. Smith) of Los Alamitos, CA; Veronica Manahan (Carlos Alvarado) of Phoenix, AZ; a brother, Robert Manahan of Huntington Beach, CA; a sister, Lenora Manahan (Kaye Johnson) of Oklahoma City, OK; and three grandchildren Destry, Madeleine and Cormac, who he adored.

Memorial Contributions can be made in Stanley’s name to:

Stanley E. Manahan Science Scholarship, Peabody High School Alumni Endowment Association, c/o Emma Pease, Vintage Bank, PO Bo, 201 N Walnut Street, Peabody, KS 66866

Friends and well-wishers are invited to attend a celebration of his life on Sunday, June 11, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Stoney Creek Hotel, 2601 S Providence Road, Columbia, MO.

A private internment will take place at Prairie Lawn Cemetery in Peabody, Kansas at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on February 06, 2023

Josephine J. Kelly passed away on February 1, 2023. Josephine was born to Arthur and Melinda Johnson on March 2, 1940 in Stephens, Missouri. She was a graduate from Frederick Douglass School in Columbia, Missouri in 1957. Josephine was married to Owen Kelly, their daughters are Dorothy Preston and E. Lynn Kelly. She has one granddaughter, Lekel Lyons, and one great grandson Kane Thomas.

Josephine was a devoted member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, Columbia, Missouri for over 50 years, and served on the Usher Board Ministry and for Mt. Carmel District.

She began her career in 1957 working at the University Hospital and Clinics. In 1972 she continued working at Harry S. Truman Hospital for the next 36 years as the Lead EKG Technician Supervisor, retiring in 2008. Among many recognitions and honors, she received the Hands and Heart Award in 1984.

She is survived by a sister, Nora Johnson, sister-in-law, Jenny Johnson. She is preceded in death by both parents and siblings, Willie Johnson, Evalena Johnson, Artwell Johnson, and Maybelle Brown.

Josephine will always be remembered for her service to others and her survivor spirit.

Online condolences may be made at www.htmay.funeralhome.com.

Donations in lieu of flowers to American Cancer Society and American Heart Association.

Visitation and service will be at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church Columbia, Missouri on February 9, 2023 at 11:00 AM, visitation 10:00 AM. Interment will be private for the family.

Posted online on March 22, 2023

Paul S Szopa, 77, of Columbia, MO passed away February 3, 2023 after losing his battle to cancer. His wife, Kathy, was by his side.

An informal Gathering of Friends will take place from 11 AM until 1 PM on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at Memorial Funeral Home.

Paul was born on March 19, 1945 in Kansas City, MO to MaryBelle (Edwards) Szopa. In 1962, he graduated from Fayette High School then put himself through college. He graduated from Central Methodist University in Fayette with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. On July 5, 1969 he married Kathryn Peterson and they moved to Columbia. Paul worked at the University of Missouri School of Fisheries and Wildlife as a research specialist in commercial photography. Budget cuts gave him an opportunity to continue his passion for taking pictures at the University with the Academic Support Center. The Missouri Academy of Science and the State Historical Society published his articles and photos. After retiring from the University, he enjoyed some time off before going back to work as your helpful neighborhood hardware man at Westlakes.

Besides capturing his love of nature and the outdoors in pictures, he enjoyed target shooting, duck hunting and fishing and making new friends using morse code on his ham radio. Yearly trips to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Minnesota always provided family time with fresh caught fish for dinner, pancakes with blueberries just picked and boating on the lake. His vast knowledge of American History and geography was creatively reflected in his children’s school projects. Always a caring, encouraging and wonderful father.

Paul is survived by his wife Kathy, son Derek (Yasmine), granddaughter Sofiana, grandson Henry, son Stephen (Randi) and daughter Charlene Ervin (John), granddaughter, Alexis. He was preceded in death, by his mother, brother, Ted, and grandparents, Marie and Charles Edwards

Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior project or charity of your choice

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Szopa family.

Posted online on February 10, 2023

Wanda Dohrn, 84, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on February 5, 2023 in Virginia Beach, VA. She was born in Kansas City, MO on April 11, 1938.

She was predeceased by her husband, Carroll Dohrn, Sr. Left to cherish her memory are her children: Caroll Dohrn, Jr. (Julie), Tami Murray (Mike), and Lori Savage (Liz); grandchildren: Alex Dohrn (Madison) and Justin Dohrn (Sarah); great-grandchildren: Gavin, Marleigh, Robbie, and two on the way; siblings: John Mangialomini and Gloria Hill; and many extended relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Wanda's honor to the SPCA.

Posted online on February 08, 2023

Delores Fay Niles, age 81, of Columbia, Missouri passed away peacefully on February 6, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on May 21, 1941 in Boone County, Missouri; a daughter of Arthur Jones and Ella (Carter) Jones. She was united in marriage to Billy Niles on August 25, 1956 and he survives.

Delores was fondly known as "Grandma" for the 14 years she worked at Oakland Junior High as a cook. Delores loved to go dancing to country music, shopping, working in her yard and cleaning her house. Her friends and neighbors will fondly remember her obsession with cleaning, including mopping the front porch. She had the cleanest porch in Boone County! Her family will remember her as feisty, spunky, very funny and will miss her terribly.

Delores is survived by her husband, Billy Gene Niles, daughters, Deborah Ardel Stone, and Tammy Jean Lenau; three brothers, Jerry Dean Jones, Billy Dale Jones, Ronnie Wayne Jones, a sister, Anna Lee Williams; grandchildren Christy Curl, Craig Stone, Lance Lenau, 5 great grandchildren, 3 great great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews, Delores was preceded in death by her parents.

Friends will be received from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm on Friday, February 10, 2023 at Nilson-Millard Cremation & Burial Center. Funeral Services will follow at 2:00 pm with Jeff Higbee officiating. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nilson-Millard Cremation and Burial Center, 5611 E. St Charles Road, Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 474-8443. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.

In Care of Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Janice F. Theroff, age 78, passed away on February 6, 2023, in Saint Charles, Mo. Janice was born to the late Edmond and Celeste Renken on October 4, 1944, in Moniteau County, Mo. On June 23, 1962, she was united in marriage to Clyde Theroff in Kansas City, Mo. Janice grew up on the family farm near High Point, Mo. and attended high school in Russellville where she excelled as a student and at softball and basketball. She attended Olean Christian Church during her formative years. She proudly worked at MFA Incorporated for almost 30 years, where she made life-long friends.

Janice was dedicated to, and very proud of, her family. She instilled in her children an appreciation of education and planned annual family vacations focused on visiting historical places and memorable activities. She encouraged her children and grandchildren to always do their best at every endeavor. She taught them perseverance and discipline and always made sure that they had what they needed to succeed. She was a fixture at her children’s recreational league, junior high and high school sporting events and was “famous” for always bringing a book to read during breaks in the action.

She loved the St. Louis Cardinals, the Missouri Botanical Gardens and being outdoors, and she was an avid landscaper. Later in life, she was a recreational golfer and enjoyed going to the driving range to hit balls with her husband.

Survivors include her daughters, Angela Theroff of Harrisonville and Ellen Theroff of Saint Charles; son, Cary Theroff of Columbia; four granddaughters, Chelsea Clarke and Sara Clarke of Harrisonville and Celeste Theroff of San Antonio, TX and Madison Theroff of Mexico; two grandsons, Andrew Clarke of Jefferson City and Cary Theroff Jr. of Columbia; one great-grandson; sisters, Frances Engelbrecht of Eugene, Deloyce Barry of California and Elaine Morris of Brazito; brother, Gayle Renken of Centertown; sister-in-law, Jill Renken of California; brothers-in-law, Marvin Theroff of Russellville, and Larry (Sandy) Theroff of Jefferson City; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Janice was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Clyde; brothers, Donald Renken and Keith Renken; brothers-in-law, Harold Barry, Curtis Engelbrecht and Daniel Morris; and sisters-in-law, Janet Renken, Lila Renken and Annita Theroff.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at Memorial Funeral Home, Columbia. The family will greet visitors beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Children's Mercy Hospital, Resource Development, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, or a charity of your choice.

Posted online on February 21, 2023

Marie Ilene Drennan, 92 of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. She was born on June 18, 1930 in Kirksville, Missouri to Carl and Thelma (Still) Guffey.

Ilene graduated from Kirksville High School and Missouri State Teachers College (Truman State), receiving degrees in Sociology and Education. Ilene was active in many activities and groups in Columbia, many involving her children and the First Christian Church. She taught Reading and Special Education at Jefferson Junior High School in Columbia for 23 years.

After retiring from teaching, Ilene earned her Masters in Social Work from Kansas University. She worked for Boone County Council on Aging, Charter Hospital, and the Salvation Army. As a licensed counselor she opened her own consulting business, counseling seniors.

Ilene was an avid reader. She was proud of her family and had wonderful friends that she loved and appreciated. She was a long-time member of PEO and the Drennan Circle at First Christian Church, and was currently a member of the Unity Church of Columbia. Ilene served on the board of Welcome Home and was on the Board and a founding member of Rainbow House.

She is survived by four sons: Tim (Maggie) Drennan, Todd (Mary) Drennan, Tyler (Shari) Drennan, Tony Drennan and one daughter, Tristen Drennan (Wes Thomas). She had six grandchildren: Taylor (Kaci) Drennan, Rachel (Wes) Cunningham, Patrick Drennan, Thomas Drennan, Kelsey Drennan, Riley Drennan; and five great-grandchildren.

Ilene was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Tyler Maxwell, and brother Harold Guffey.

A Celebration of Life will be held May 13, from 1:00 – 3:00 at Unity Church.

Donations in Ilene’s honor may be made to the charity/organization of your choice.

The complete obituary is posted online and condolences may be left for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on February 10, 2023

Larry A. Hale, age 88, passed away at home on February 8. Larry was born on May 11, 1934 in Browning, Missouri and was the only son of the late Everett and Edith (Dickinson) Hale.

Larry held various positions over the years in his career with The University of Missouri and Cooperative Extension. Starting in 1956 as an Ag Agent in New London, he was promoted to an Area Director, Regional Director, State 4-H Director, Director of Planning and Evaluation, and finished working an assortment of administrative level jobs for the University Director of Extension, including serving as Interim Regional Directors in SE and SW Missouri. He served and led county leadership councils, staff, and faculty across Missouri with his unusual and loved brand of humor, his uncanny way of processing a group of people through tough system-wide change, and his love for agriculture and 4-H.

Larry is survived by his wife Michele, his sister Elaine (Pipes), youngest daughter Gina (Ganey), granddaughters Addison (Ganey) and Haley (Ganey), grandson Noah (Pinkerton), and a niece and nephew.

In addition to his parents, he is proceeded in death by his son Michael, his daughters Susan and Julie, and his beloved Uncles Archie, Niles and Hugh.

No memorial services will be held. An announcement to celebrate Larry’s life will be sent to family and friends at a later date. If anyone wishes to make a memorial donation, please consider the Missouri 4-H Foundation (https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/missouri-4-h-foundation) or the Missouri Dept. of Conservation.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on February 10, 2023

Gary Hamilton, 80, left this world on February 8, 2023, in Columbia, MO. Gary, also known as Paw Paw, was born on June 23, 1942, in Moberly, Missouri. He graduated from Higbee High in 1960.

Gary worked in this life as a barber and a repo man. After this, he transitioned to Shelter Insurance Companies, where he worked his way up and retired as Vice President of Consumer Lending from Shelter Bank in 2004 after 34 years of service. Gary’s work took them around the Midwest working in Missouri, Iowa, Mississippi, Arkansas and back to Missouri (pronounced muz-zur-uh, NOT muh-zur-ee)!

Gary loved traveling with his bride, taking cruises and cross-country road trips. He could always be found with a small red Swiss Army knife ready to tackle anything that came his way, but most importantly, he would cut every straw his grandchildren placed in front of him. Gary loved working on his family farm on never-ending projects. His hobbies included tinkering in his in-home shop, working on rebuilding old cars, everything from a ’66 Mustang to a ’56 Ford Sun Liner, driving his candy apple red Mustang down Route 66, and most recently took to rebuilding a ’60 Ford 801 tractor.

Gary proudly served on the board of Coyote Hill, a Foster Care Ministry. He was a member of Compass Church in Columbia, MO. He was also a member of the Central Missouri Mustang Club, Old Wheels Car Club, and Crown Victoria Club.

While his hobbies and work added value to his life, Gary’s family was one of the most important things in his life. Gary took pride in each of his family members. Gary is survived by his lifelong love of 59+ years, Anne Hamilton, two children: Leslie Sneller and husband Mark Sneller and their two children, Ashton and Nathan; also Jeffrey Hamilton and his two children, Jaxon Hamilton and Dani Patterson with her husband Dalton Patterson. Gary also had one great-grandson, Sawyer Patterson. Gary is survived by his sister, Rita Perkins and two sisters-in-law, Denise Hartley and Rebecca Hartley. And numerous nieces, nephews, and more.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Compass Church, 600 Silvey St., Columbia, MO 65203. Celebration of life to follow directly after at 3:00 PM at Compass Church.

Memorials can be made to Coyote Hill in memory of Gary Hamilton. Gifts can be made online or checks can be sent to Coyote Hill, 9501 W. Coyote Hill Road, PO Box 1, Harrisburg, MO 65256.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on February 14, 2023

Robert Joel “Bob” Harris, M.D., 88, of Columbia, passed away February 11, 2023, in Columbia.

A celebration of life will be held on March 5, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Parker-Millard Funeral Home, 12 East Ash St., in Columbia.

Bob was born on January 20, 1935, to Millard and Lucille (Moore) Harris in Poplar Bluff, Mo., because their hometown of Piedmont in southeast Missouri did not have a hospital. An only child, Bob was doted on by his loving parents and enjoyed spending time in his youth with his train sets in a playhouse, complete with electricity, that his parents built for him behind their home. Bob grew up helping his parents at their dry goods and clothing store, T.W. Harris & Son, in Piedmont. As a youth, he spent months receiving medical care in St. Louis recovering from an eye injury sustained in a slingshot accident, but he never let the fact that he was legally blind in one eye prevent him from doing anything. Bob’s interest in medicine began as a young boy when he would fish with his grandfather and then watch him clean the fish, leading him to discover that he was fascinated by the fish’s last meal and the contents of its stomach more than the fishing itself. He attended Piedmont public schools and graduated from Piedmont High School in 1953, where he lettered in basketball and played saxophone in the band.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1957 from Central Methodist University. Among other honors, he received the Best Actor award at Central Methodist for his role in a school theatrical production. He made extra money in college playing the saxophone in local rhythm and blues bands. He went on to attend medical school at the University of Missouri-Columbia, earning a Doctor of Medicine degree in 1961 and completing a residency in pediatrics at the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1964. It was at Mizzou where he met his wife, Jerena “Jerry” Lee Arthur. Bob and Jerry were married on August 20, 1961, in Jerry’s hometown of Rolla, Mo., and made their home in Columbia for all 61 years of their marriage. Frequently, and without hesitation, Bob would tell anyone that Jerry was the love of his life and the best thing that ever happened to him. Jerry worked with Bob as a scheduler and manager for the last 30 years of his medical practice. Two children were born of the marriage, Robert Jeffrey “Jeff” Harris and Julie Lee (Harris) Shaw.

Bob was considered an icon in the local medical community, as one of the longest practicing physicians in the history of Boone County and one of the longest practicing pediatricians in the state. He started his private pediatrics practice in August 1964 in Doctors Park in Columbia and continued to practice for nearly 56 years until his retirement in January 2020 because of illness. He was a founder of Boone Clinic Pediatrics and was later the senior pediatrician at (in a partial nod to his medical school nickname of “Tiger”) Tiger Pediatrics. He was a staff member at Boone Hospital Center and a clinical professor of pediatrics at Women and Children’s Hospital in Columbia.

Throughout his medical career, Bob made a lasting and positive impact on the health and well-being of thousands of children in Central Missouri. As he said many times, pediatrics for him was a passion, not a job. When families could not afford to pay their medical bill, Bob still ensured that his patients received the best care possible. He was there to attend the deliveries of his patients, and he made house calls if needed. There are still families in Columbia where multiple generations – grandparents, parents and children – were patients of “Dr. Bob.” He also served as a mentor and took great pride in training many future physicians.

His concern for the well-being of children extended to his service on the Columbia Public Schools Board of Education, where he served as a member from 1981-1990 and as board president from 1984-1986. As a school board member, he handed both Jeff and Julie their diplomas at their high school graduations. Among other accomplishments as a board member, Bob was instrumental in establishing the Partners in Education program in the Columbia Public Schools.

In addition to his work, he authored two children’s books, The Curly Headed Bird and The Floppy Eared Beagle. He was a lifelong, and sometimes loud, Tigers and Cardinals fan and enjoyed attending Mizzou games with his family. He also enjoyed antiquing with his wife.

Among his many awards and honors were the Distinguished Alumni Award from Central Methodist University, the Distinguished Service Award from the University of Missouri Medical Alumni Association, the Missouri Child Advocacy Award from the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Humanitarian Award from the University of Missouri International Center for Psychosocial Trauma. In 2017, Inside Columbia magazine recognized Bob in the Health Care and Medicine category as one of “The Como 100 Who Have Shaped Columbia.” In 2018, at age 83, Bob received the Columbia Daily Tribune Reader’s Choice Award as “Best Pediatrician.”

In addition to his many accolades, he served as a gubernatorial appointee on the Missouri Children’s Trust Fund, the Safe Kids board and the executive board of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Missouri chapter. He was a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Most of all, he will be lovingly remembered by his family to whom he was forever and unfailingly devoted: wife Jerry; son Robert Jeffrey “Jeff” Harris and wife Katie Perry Harris and children Grace and Ted; and daughter Julie Harris Shaw and husband Stuart and children Jack and Caroline.

The family wishes to thank the caregivers at Bright Star for their care at home and the staff of Columbia Post-Acute for their care. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Dr. Robert J. Harris Scholarship for graduating high school seniors with an interest in medicine. Tax-deductible donations, with Harris Scholarship on the memo line, may be sent to the Community Foundation of Central Missouri, P.O. Box 6015, Columbia, MO 65205.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on February 14, 2023

Vernon Lyle Jennings, 94, of Columbia, passed away Sunday, February 12, 2023. Visitation will be 4-6pm, Thursday, February 16th at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia. Private family services and interment will be Friday at Memorial Funeral Home.

Vernon was born April 25, 1928 in North Salem, MO to Ellis and Irene Jennings. He graduated from Shelby High School in 1945. After graduation, he attended North East Missouri State (now Truman State) and studied Business and Accounting. In 1950 he began his career with MFA/Shelter Insurance. Over his career, he worked many positions including Accounting and General Services. He was also instrumental in establishing the MFA/Shelter Credit Union. In 1993, after 43 years of service, he retired from Shelter Insurance as the Vice President of General Services.

In 1951, he put his young career on hold to serve his country with the US Army. He proudly served in the Korean War from November 1951 to November 11, 1952. He returned to work as soon as he had completed his military service. He loved trout fishing at Bennett Springs, and took up golfing in his 50’s. He made two holes-in-one from the same course over his golf career. He lived in Florida in the winter and loved to read. He also cheered for the MIZZOU Tigers and the St. Louis Cardinals. He also enjoyed a big bowl of ham and beans with cornbread.

He survived by his wife, June; daughter, Terry Hume; daughter-in-law, Amber Jennings; stepson, Kevin Gromer; stepdaughter, Kari Brady; grandchildren, Corey King, Kendra Jennings, and Douglas Jennings; four step-grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and his dog, Yadi. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Reva Guyer; and his son, Douglas Lyle Jennings.

Memorial contributions may be made to Fairview United Methodist Church 3200 Chapel Hill Rd, Columbia, MO 65203 or the Salvation Army 1108 West Ash Street Columbia, MO 65203

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on February 17, 2023

Stephen M. Archer, age 88, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on February 13, 2023 at Columbia Post Acute. He was born on May 14, 1934 in Winfield, Kansas; a son of William A. Archer and Cecelia (Kumbera) Archer. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years (Paula Karalyn) Kelly (Agrelius) Archer in 2012.

His first eight years of public schooling were spent in a one-room schoolhouse while growing up on a farm outside Winfield. He graduated from Winfield High School and earned BA, BS and MS degrees from Kansas State Teachers College (now Emporia State University) in Emporia, Kansas, ‘57 and ‘58, and in 1964 his doctorate from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in Theatre History. Stephen taught at Argentine (K.C.) High School, Black Hills State, Kearney State College, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, and was a Professor in the Theatre Department at the University of Missouri for 27 years. In addition to teaching, directing plays & guiding dissertations, Stephen was an author of seven books, including textbooks, reference books, a biography of Junius Brutus Booth and a personal memoir, “I, Clodhopper”. Travel was a treasured experience, domestically and abroad. A voracious reader, he credited the Winfield Public Library and the works of Burroughs, Conan Doyle & Twain for giving his young mind a notion of life beyond the farm. Most years, he re-read Huckleberry Finn because he figured it couldn’t hurt him. He also enjoyed a near lifelong devotion to baseball in general, and Our Beloved Cardinals in specific.

Stephen is survived by his son, Steven Archer, sisters-in-law Judith Agrelius and Betsy (Agrelius) Zindle and brother-in-law Kenneth Zindle, all of Columbia, nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his parents, a sister, Katherine Leonhart, and a brother, William H. Archer.

Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Stephen’s name to Doctors Without Borders at https://donate.doctorswithoutborders.org/.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on February 22, 2023

Ben Frank Nelms - husband, father, professor and teacher - passed away on February 13, 2023, in Columbia, MO. Ben's life was dedicated to his family, to the training of teachers, and to the teaching of literature. Books were the tool of his trade but also one of his life's passions.

If his own life were a book, it would have the humblest of beginnings. He was born in the small rural town of Cornersville, Tennessee on May 12, 1936, the fourth child of Avon Elbert Nelms and Ocia Clift Nelms. He was born 15 years after his closest sibling and most of Ben's raising came from his two sisters, Ruth and Merle, and especially his oldest brother, Ward. Ben was a bookish and curious child in a farming community, and he spent his high school years hiding his good grades to avoid teasing. Even so, he finished valedictorian of his small class and was fortuitously discovered by a college recruiter who offered him tuition at David Lipscomb College in Nashville, Tennessee. Ben sold a cow he'd raised to help with room and board while he attended college.

If his life were a book, it would honor the art of words and the joy of teaching. Ben graduated with an English and Speech degree from Lipscomb College in 1958, a Masters in English from the University of North Carolina in 1959, and a Ph.D. in English Education from the University of Iowa in 1967. He taught in Tennessee, Texas, and Iowa before settling in for 24 years as a Professor at the University of Missouri. He then moved to the University of Florida where he was Professor of Curriculum and Instruction, and where he was ultimately promoted to the Dean of the College of Education before retiring in 2005. He had many appointments and honors beyond those positions, such as directing the Missouri Writing Project for 24 years and the Florida Writing Project for six, as well as serving as the Editor of national journals such as English Education and the English Journal for seven and eight years, respectively. But if his life were a book, he wouldn't think to write it as a resumé of accomplishments; rather, he'd write it as a personal memoir of the joy of teaching and, more importantly, the privilege of knowing his students, who were not only his purpose and challenge, but in their response, also his reward.

If his life were a book, it would be a love story. Ben met and fell in love with Elizabeth (Beth) Donnell while at David Lipscomb College, and they married on December 27, 1962. They celebrated their 60th anniversary just two months ago. He once wrote, "I have been blessed, as few men are and none I think should expect, in a wife who is ideal in every way. Ideal for me, at least. Even her flaws are flaws I need in my life. Wherever she is, is home: personal, physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual. To make a home requires two, and for me one of them had to be Beth."

If his life were a book, it would be filled with children. Ben and Beth had five children - Keats (Fiona) Nelms, Robert Nelms, Elizabeth (James Hudson) Frank, Katherine (Steve) Hughes, and Benjamin Nelms, and five grandchildren - Abigail, Leigh, and Aislinn Hughes, and Jackson and Joshua Nelms. Ben once wrote of his children, "As Beth taught me the meaning of home, they have taught me the meaning of family. And, ironically, it has been in my children that I have learned how much I have been blessed. In each of these five children I see repeated what I loved, respected, and sometimes resisted in all the forebears we are heir to. There has never been a day that I haven't loved them as myself."

If his life were a book, Ben's children would remember him faithfully reading aloud to them from his wooden rocking chair, taking them to places like Narnia, Middle Earth, and Sunset Towers on weekdays, and on Sunday, in the footsteps of the heroes of Old and New Testament faith. They'd remember his fairness and strictness, but they'd also remember his dependable help and wisdom. As pages turned, they'd remember growing to be not just his children, but his friends, each in their own way.

If his life were a book, the chapter on the so-called "golden years" would tell stories of how Ben and Beth would drive cross-country to fellowship with friends and family, to lose themselves in concerts and theater, and to peruse crafts and vintage bookstores. Back at home in Columbia, they enjoyed so much, including volunteering, leading adult education classes, being active in church, sharing their days with their beloved shelter dogs (Peanut, then Honey-B, who introduced them to the community at the dog park), and sitting down for friendly meals at Peking restaurant.

If his life were a book, the last few pages would admittedly be less grand as Ben's earthly body yielded to time. But the very last page would be (and was) full of long hugs, warm tears, and personal testaments. In the end, our friend, father, and husband on earth became our brother in eternity.

"There's a divinity that shapes our ends, Rough-hew them how we will." - Hamlet 5.2

Posted online on February 17, 2023

Graple Louise Ross, age 81, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on February 15, 2023 at Boone Hospital. She was born on July 8, 1941 in Tiplersville, Mississippi; a daughter of Laurel Greene and Lessie (Bullman) Greene. She was united in marriage to James Ross on July 1, 1959 and he precedes her in death.

Louise and James moved from Portageville, Missouri to Columbia in 1968 and she worked as a cook at Lee Elementary and then earned her CNA certificate and worked at Lenior Nursing Home. In the mid 70’s she went to work at Candelight Lodge Assisted Living and remained there until her retirement in the early 90’s.

Besides her family, Louise’s big love was her faith and her church. She was a long-time member of the Bethany Church in Columbia and later became a member of Calvary Heritage Baptist Church. She also loved to sing and could often been heard singing in the home or even in the yard for the neighbors. Her favorite music was gospel and bluegrass. Louise enjoyed attending gospel festivals with friends, going to plays at Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre or Branson and playing cards. She was meticulous about her appearance, getting her hair done every week, always making sure that her jewelry matched her outfit, and that her make-up was perfect.

Louise is survived by her three sons, James “Tim” Ross (Meghon) of Columbia, Edward Anthony Ross (Elizabeth) of Springfield, Daniel Alan Ross (Melanie Bourgeois) of Rohnert Park, California, her sister Laura Jane Terrell, grandchildren Andy Ross (Heidi), Alex Ross, Mason Ross (Jenn Cooper), Olivia Ross, Jonathan Ross, Ethan Ross, Adelia Horner (Kyler), Parker Ross, Wylie Ross; great grandchildren Jake, Braden, Owen, Kallen, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Louise was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, sisters Mildred Maerine Sticklin, Mary Nell Warren, Georgia Delle Greene and brothers, Fay Dywone Greene and Ray Lavone Greene.

Friends will be received from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Monday, February 20, 2023 at Calvary Heritage Baptist Church, 1703 W Worley St, Columbia with funeral services immediately following.

In lieu of flower, memorial donations can be made in Louise name to Calvary Heritage Baptist Church.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nilson-Millard Cremation and Burial Center, 5611 E. St Charles Road, Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 474-8443. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.

NOVEMBER 7, 1930 – FEBRUARY 16, 2023

IN THE CARE OF, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park, Cemetery/Columbia

Jeanette Ruth Leroux age 92, died on February 16, 2023 in Columbia, Missouri. Jeanette was born in Hays, Kansas on November 7, 1930 to Roger Leigh Hefling and Edith Alice Hefling. She married Lawrence L. Leroux on June 9, 1957 in the First Methodist Church in Halstead, Kansas and he preceded her in death March 11, 2008. She is also preceded in death by daughter Stephanie Leroux; brothers James Hefling of Halsted, KS, and John Hefling of Danville, IL.

She is survived by son Steven Leroux and wife Tammy of Holts Summit, MO; grandson Allen Leroux of Fulton, MO; brothers Jerry Hefling of Paola, KS, and Joel Hefling of Platte, SD. Additionally, Jeanette is survived by 6 nieces and nephews, and numerous great nieces and nephews.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Leroux family.

Mark Allen Foreman, 91, passed away Sunday, February 19, 2023, in Columbia, MO. Mark was born May 24, 1931 to Josephine (Zimmerman) and Daniel Ernest Foreman at their family farm. The small livestock and poultry farm was in Adams County, South of Decatur in NE Indiana, and this is where Mark and older brother, Howard, grew up.

Mark attended Senior High School in Decatur, IN. Mark then attended Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN where he majored and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Agriculture Economics.

Mark was asked to join the internationally acclaimed Purdue Varsity Glee Club. The glee club had 56 voices who dressed in black tails at all their performances. Under the direction of Albert Stewart, they became one of the most outstanding college glee clubs in the nation. Mark was one of several lead soloists in the club for two years, and in his last year, they performed over 100 concerts. They were considered ambassadors of Purdue both in the US and Internationally.

In 1951, Mark met Joan Menge of Fort Wayne, IN, who, at the time, was attending Stephens College in Columbia, MO. They were married in West Lafayette, IN, while Mark completed his senior year at Purdue, graduating in 1953.

In his freshman year at Purdue, Mark had enrolled in the Army ROTC program, which required a commitment of two years of active-duty service in Germany with the US Army following graduation.

Back in Fort Wayne, Mark was offered a sales position and became employed by Central Soya’s McMillen Feed Mills. He was promoted to territorial successor manager in the established Columbia, MO, area territory. His new territory covered a wide range of counties across central Missouri, and the family moved from Salem, IN, to Columbia.

In 1964, Mark decided to change his career path and become an agent for the Lincoln National Life Insurance Company in Columbia for the next 44 years. Over those years, he earned accolades from both his primary company and from peers and agents of other fine companies.

He ranked in the top 1% of all Lincoln producers in the US in 1990 and qualified as a 30-year member of the International Million Dollar Round Table. Mark’s wife, Joan, joined his staff in 1986. Joan was a superb director of marketing and promotion at the Lincoln Financial local office.

In July 1965, following a presentation at an Optimist Club meeting, Mark and two other members were asked by the program presenter, Lewis Stoerker, a professor at MU, to join him and assemble a small group to create a memorial for the Stoerker’s 9 year old daughter, Carol, who had been struck by a car in 1961.

Mark knew Lewis as a friend and choir member from his Presbyterian Church choir. Lewis asked Mark and three others to help create a non-profit corporation to raise funds to buy the land surrounding the well-known rock bridge, 5 miles South of Columbia to create a large park.

By acquiring about 2000 acres of the beautiful, rugged land surrounding rock bridge, the park would serve as a memorial for Carol. Mark was asked to serve as both director and secretary. The original team numbered 5 men and 2 women and two months later, 6 outstanding men were added to meet the goal of buying the land.

They raised $180,000 and obtained the State Park Board’s recommendation to gain a federal funding grant matching the $180,000, providing $360,000 needed to pay the 9 different land owners. The 9 tracts of land were then transferred by the corporation to the Missouri State Park Board in 1967-68 totaling 1,830 acres.

Mark served as the official secretary of Rock Bridge Memorial Park, Inc. during the corporation’s existence. The beautiful Rock Bridge Memorial State Park now totals 2,373 acres with over 25 miles of trails. The prior landowners were very pleased with their decision to sell their land to create a park that will be enjoyed into perpetuity.

Throughout his accomplished life, Mark was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church and a member of the church choir since 1961. He was an ordained Deacon and Elder, served as a trustee, and was asked to serve on several ministerial committees. Mark was also an active member of the Columbia NW Rotary Club since 1971, and served as the president in 1974-75.

Mark is survived by his wife, Joan, and son, Paul Michael Foreman. Mark also enjoyed a precious few years spending time with his goddaughter Ayla Granberg Hidborg.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sons, Walter and Stephen Foreman; brother, Howard Foreman.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, March 7th from 4-7pm at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. A memorial service followed by a time of fellowship will be held, 1pm Wednesday, March 8th at 1st Presbyterian Church in Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 16 Hitt St, Columbia, MO 65201 or to the Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial Park, PO Box 7642, Columbia, MO 65205.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Foreman family.

Posted online on March 11, 2023

We lost a gracious and kind advocate for voting rights and mental health services when Lael Hunt Powers Von Holt died on the afternoon of February 20, 2023.

Lael had a long career helping people with mental health, initially through her social work in New York City, later work in a psychiatric hospital in Massachusetts, and her decades of work in Missouri as a mental health counselor.

Her career was important. But Lael’s family is what she prized the most. Born Lael Hunt Powers in 1927, she had a close relationship with her mother, Rea, with whom she shared an April 9 birthday, and her father, Merritt. Her three sisters, Glenna, Judy, and Debbie, all passed before her, but she greatly enjoyed keeping communications flowing with them and their families. She is survived by her brother Merritt, Jr. of Massachusetts.

Lael met her future husband, Henry W. Von Holt, Jr., through both work and chance. They worked at the same psychiatric hospital. But their lasting relationship was sparked by a chance meeting one evening away from work. Henry was driving in Northborough, Massachusetts looking for an address that he couldn’t find. He stopped at a house on South Street to ask directions. It just happened to be the Powers family home, and Lael answered the door. They recognized each other and spoke briefly. Lael gave Henry directions and he left. Inspired by that surprise meeting, a few days later, Henry approached Lael in the hospital cafeteria and asked her out. Their relationship blossomed and they married on September 18, 1954, at First Parish Church, a beautiful white church on a hill in Northborough.

Lael and Henry moved to Eugene, Oregon after the wedding and had two sons there, Gardner and Dudley. Lael’s mother Rea died soon after the wedding, and Lael grew close to Henry’s mother, Alice, who lived in Portland, Oregon, as well as the entire extended Von Holt family. In 1960, Lael, Henry and the boys moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan and she had a third son, Edward. Lael loved raising her boys and was a supportive mother. She encouraged her sons in whatever they wanted to do and was always ready to support their school work, extracurricular activities, lessons, and just about anything else.

In 1967, the family moved to Columbia, Missouri. Lael earned a masters degree in social work from the University of Missouri and provided mental health counseling in Hermann, Jefferson City, and other parts of Missouri. At the same time, she kept the family active with frequent short and long trips - to Stephens Lake and Rock Bridge Park in Columbia, to New England to visit her family, and to Portland, Oregon to visit Henry’s family.

Lael’s culinary skills were strong. Believing that dinner together was an important part of maintaining a strong family, she prepared dinners every night. When it was time to eat, she would ring a bell in the garage and her sons would come running home from wherever they were playing in the neighborhood.

Lael was proud of the fact that she was a descendant of the Adams family that produced two presidents and a direct descendant of John and Priscilla Alden, who arrived on the Mayflower.

Lael loved dogs, of which the family had several. Her favorites were three German shepherds, Lady, Pepper, and Silver.

Although busy with work and family, Lael was a long-term active member of the Missouri League of Women Voters. She strongly believed that supporting voting rights should be a non-partisan issue. She was involved in numerous League efforts, tracking city council meetings, following legislative efforts related to mental health, and moderating candidate discussion panels and debates, among other duties. She had many League friends, whom she greatly admired.

Lael loved the addition of daughters-in-law to the family, Lisa, Mary, and Anne. She and Mary shared an affection for the study of ancestry and Mary worked on a family ancestry research project that Lael appreciated. Lael and Lisa saw each other often, both had a love of cooking, and Lael grew close to Lisa’s family, particularly Carey and Richard Chapple, who visited Lael frequently. Although they knew each other only a short time, Lael and Anne shared the counseling profession and mutual admiration.

Lael’s love of family grew even greater with the birth of her three granddaughters, Julia in 1988, Anna in 1991, and Catherine in 1995. She followed their lives closely and loved exchanging correspondence, often snail mail, with them.

Lael and Henry’s happy marriage lasted for 60 years, ending only upon his death in 2014.

Lael was overjoyed with the birth of her great grandson, Simon, in 2021. She enjoyed visits from him at two Christmases and kept a close eye on her internet-connected digital picture frame, which would often update her with new photos of Simon.

In 2021, Lael moved from the family home on Crown Point to the Tiger Place senior residential facility, where she found a wonderful community of residents and staff. She was grateful to all those who made her feel so welcomed and at home there. Her apartment’s screened porch looked out over plants, trees, and the entrance to the facility. She enjoyed sitting there, soaking in the view, the green of growing things, and keeping track of the action. When not on the porch, Lael enjoyed discussions with other residents, sharing her views on women’s rights, playing bingo, and kicking around an exercise ball. She also enjoyed keeping track of news, usually having CNN going on the tv, but with the sound muted. With no sound from the tv, she could engage in another favorite activity — discussions with her caregivers from Home Instead and Phoenix, interesting and compassionate people who made her life better.

Lael’s passing on Monday, President’s Day, was quiet and peaceful with sun streaming in through the window. Family members in the room had been looking at family pictures and reminiscing just before, which provided a comforting background to her passing. She will be buried in Memorial Park Cemetery, beside Henry, whom she always described as “elegant,” a word that really applied perfectly to her.

A memorial service celebrating Lael’s life will be held April 17, 2023, at 1:00 p.m., at Missouri United Methodist Church, 204 S. 9th St., Columbia, Missouri. Share memories and condolences online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on March 15, 2023

Dr. Roger W. (Dad) Bumgarner, an accomplished anesthesiologist, philanthropist, and devoted husband and father, passed away peacefully at home on February 24, 2023, at the age of 99, surrounded by his loving children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Heyssel Bumgarner, his son-in-law George Blystone Jr. and his granddaughter Remy Ann Blystone. He is survived by his three children Ann Blystone, Carrie Bumgarner (Wallace Greene IV), and Bill Bumgarner (Christine), three grandchildren, two great grandchildren, in-laws, nieces and nephews, as well as a multitude of friends, who considered him family.

Born on June 11, 1923, in Odessa Missouri, Dr. Bumgarner led a remarkable life, characterized by a passion for travel, a love of gardening, and a commitment to excellence in his chosen field. He was widely recognized by his peers for his skill, compassion, and expertise. Dr. Bumgarner was proud to have been the first anesthesiologist in Columbia, Missouri, have served in MASH units in Korea, and have volunteered as a nursing home ombudsman for over 25 years (until the age of 97).

In addition to his professional achievements, Roger was also a very kind man, who cared deeply about the people around him. He always had a kind word or a helping hand for those in need, and he will be remembered for his compassion and generosity. Roger was an avid gardener and took great joy in the beauty of nature. He would want us all to take a moment to enjoy the flowers around us, as he often did.

Beyond his family, Dr. Bumgarner was also an extensive philanthropist, supporting a wide range of charitable causes over the course of his life. He believed deeply in the importance of giving back, and dedicated himself to helping those in need. Roger and Mary were passionate supporters of local charities, especially the Food Bank of Central & Northeast Missouri and in lieu of flowers for the family, please consider making a donation to that organization or a similar one in their honor, and planting a flower or tree.

Dr. Bumgarner's passing is a great loss to all who knew him, but his memory will live on through the many lives he touched and the lasting impact he made on the world around him. He would want us to take the time to enjoy the natural world coming to life, to be kind to one another, and to treat everyone with equity.

At the request of Dr. and Mrs. Bumgarner there are no services at this time. A celebration of their lives will be planned at a later date when the flowers are in full bloom.

Posted online on March 14, 2023

James E. Porter Jr., 93, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend was called home by his Heavenly Father on March 8, 2023.

He was a loving and devoted husband to his wife Georgia of 72 years and a cherished role model for his daughters and many in the community.

James was born October 2, 1929, in Columbia, Missouri, the son of James and Eugenia (Drew) Porter. James’ mother died when he was young and was raised by his father and loving stepmother Mary (Norman) Porter.

James, fondly known as Jim, had a passion for fishing, riding his motorcycle, and collecting Lionel trains. He loved working with his hands whether it was fixing something that wasn't broken or working on old cars. Service was a big part of his life. He was an Elder at 5th Street Christian Church, a lifetime member of the Masonic Rising Sun Lodge, and a member of the Big Brother program. He was a father to the fatherless in the community and never met a stranger.

Jim was a Veteran of the United States Army, where he served in the Korean War alongside his twin brother Clarence receiving an honorable discharge. Jim worked as a Maintenance Foreman for the Columbia Housing Authority and retired after over 32 years of service.

Jim is Survived by his beloved wife Georgia Porter, daughters Janice Porter-Posey (John), Boston, Massachusetts, Deborah Greene Turner (Gary), Columbia, Missouri, Cynthia Thompson (Eric), Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Kimberley Slater (Aaron Jr), Reisterstown, Maryland, Lisa Porter-Jones (Kenneth), Carmel, Indiana, 9 Grandchildren, 4 Great grandchildren, and a host of family and friends.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Clarence and Carl, sister Lula, and grandson Miles Jones.

Services will be held Saturday, March 18, 2023, at the Broadway Christian Church, 2601 W Broadway, Columbia, Mo 65203. Visitation 10:30am - 11:30am, Masonic Last Rites Service 11:30am, Funeral Service 12 Noon, Interment to follow, Memorial Park Cemetery, Columbia, MO.

In Lieu of Flowers, the family request donations to either the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Nora Stewart Early Learning Center in Columbia, MO.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on March 16, 2023

Donald Dee Waller, age 89, of Columbia, formerly of Laddonia, passed away on Friday, March 10, 2023 at Boone Hospital Center. He was born on December 10, 1933 in Laddonia, Missouri to the late Roy and Elsie (Shugart) Waller.

Friends will be received from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 20, 2023 at Parker-Millard Funeral Service with a Funeral Service to follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment of ashes will follow at a later date.

Don graduated from Wellsville High School. He served his country in the Navy where he was a corpsmen, working at Camp Lejeune hospital in the pediatrics department.

He married Dolores Johnsten in Laddonia, Missouri on December 24, 1954 and they were married 62 years until her passing in 2016.

Donald worked in Carpentry until he moved to Columbia, where he worked at the Physical Plant at the University of Missouri. He then became the locksmith for the University and then for the University of Missouri Hospital for the remainder of his career.

Donald was a friendly, outgoing jokester that liked everyone he met. He took pride in his meticulous care of his yard and caring for “his birds”, spoiling them with food, heated baths, etc.

Don is survived by his children: Pam Waller of Columbia, Tim (Angela) Waller of Hallsville, and Mark (Faith) Waller of Warrenton; grandchildren: Brittany (Andrew) Lynch, Zachary (Kathy) Waller, and Ian Waller; sister Ruth Ann(Steve) Dunn of Wildwood, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife Dolores.

Memorials in his honor may be made to the Central Missouri Honor Flight, 1400 Forum Blvd. Suite 7A, Box 334, Columbia, Missouri 65203

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on March 28, 2023

Arvine Eubanks, age 89, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023.

Arvine was born on September 16, 1933 to Millicent and Odessa Eubanks in Hillsdale, Missouri. After Arvine graduated from Douglass High School in 1951, he enlisted in the Army, fought in the Korean War conflict and served honorably.

From a previous marriage, four children were born, Adrienne, Debra, Arvine, Kellee. In addition to the four, Teresa Bryant Redd was born. In 1985, Arvine met Sharyn Cole which proceeded into marriage, which included daughter Stacey Williams.

In 1967, he was employed by the United States Postal Service which he worked for 47 years before retiring in 2012. Additionally, he was a current member of Richard T. Kelly American Legion Post 238 and a longtime member of St. Paul AME church were he was a Trustee. He was also a former member of the Peacemaker Motorcycle Club.

Arvine is preceded in death by both parents, Millicent and Odessa Eubanks and his daughter Debra. He is survived by his wife Sharyn and children Adrienne of Connecticut, Arvine of Florida, Kellee (Eric) Columbia, Teresa of Springfield, IL and Stacey (Lenard) of Chicago; as well as a sister-in-law, Alberta of Kansas City; and grandchildren, Arvetta, Nasia (Joseph), Taalor (Ben) and Kennedy; along with several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 31, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at St. Paul AME Church. The funeral service will take place Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 1:00 PM, also at St. Paul AME Church. Graveside services with military honors will immediately follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on May 01, 2023

Randall Brown Johnston, an accomplished attorney, music lover and devoted husband passed away from prostate cancer on March 28, 2023, at the age of 74. He is survived by his wife Gabriele McCown and her daughter Colleen and his children, Tricia Flesner and Shan Rich and three grandchildren, as well as sisters Lynn Benson (Jack) of Leawood, Kansas; Grace Elder (Ron) of Columbia, Missouri; and brother Phil Johnston (Leslie) of Alamo, California; and six nieces and nephews.

Born on May 20th, 1948, in New Jersey, Randall's parents relocated the family to Columbia, Missouri, in 1951. His father, Lennie P. Johnston grew up in Columbia where he met his wife, Mary Lee (Prunty) Johnston. Randall's father, Lennie P., joined his father, Lennie D. Johnston, in the family paint and wallpaper business.

Randall learned to play saxophone, his father's musical instrument, and participated in basketball, baseball and golf growing up. He assisted his maternal Grandfather, Dr. Merle C. Prunty, by working in his large garden. In conversations with his grandfather, Randall developed interest in philosophy, religion, and literature. This influenced his decision to major in philosophy. He also worked summers in construction developing skills in building and remodeling. He later taught his son, Shan, his craft, and Shan later made construction his life-long profession.

After graduating prep school from Mount Hermon in Northfield, Massachusetts, Randall attended UC Berkeley graduating with a bachelor's in philosophy in 1971. He attended law school at University of San Francisco for three semesters before returning to Columbia in 1973. He launched Johnston Audio and married Roxanne Reed in 1980. He later sold his audio business to D&M Sound and returned to law school at the University of Missouri graduating in 1986. He then served as Callaway County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney before building a successful law practice.

In 2002, Randall married Gabriele McCown, an occupational therapist for Columbia Public Schools. Gabriele is now retired and still resides in Columbia.

Randall shared his family's passion for Missouri Tiger football and basketball. He enjoyed listening to a wide range of music including classical, jazz and classic rock. He had an excellent wine tasting palate and enjoyed sharing wine with his friends.

He was very active in public service including roles in the community as vestry member at Calvary Episcopal Church, board of Salvation Army, board of Mareck Center for Dance, and president of Boone County Bar Association.

A celebration of his life will be held at Country Club of Missouri on May 27th, from 4-6pm. In his memory, in lieu of flowers, Randall and his family request that donations be made to Mary Lee Johnston Community Learning Center at 1509 Hinkson Avenue, Columbia MO, 65201, www.mljclc.org, or an organization of choice.

Posted online on March 31, 2023

Eva Jean Crowson passed away on March 28, 2023, at the age of 94 peacefully in her home in Columbia MO with her family by her side. She was born October 5,1928 in Columbia MO on their farm in Boone County MO to Joseph A Martin and Wilmoth (Crane) Martin, Jean was preceded in death by her husband R Joe Crowson (Joe Crowson), her parents and her siblings, Sue Martin and Billy Joe Martin.

Jean married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Joe Crowson on March 18, 1951. Together in their 70 years of loving each other, Jean and Joe loved and raised 5 wonderful children: Sandra C Mead (Jensen Beach FL), Robert J Crowson II (Susan), Georgetown TX. Craig S Crowson (Mary) Palm Coast FL, Paul M Crowson (Becky), Hobe Sound FL, and Kimberly A Delfino, Jensen Beach FL. Jean was a loving grandmother to 6 wonderful grandchildren: Chris Adamson, Zachary Crowson (Kayla), Kiersten Adamson-Castro (Mariano), Madison Crowson, Chase Adamson and Nicholas Crowson. Special mention to her loving niece Donna Russell (Denny), like a daughter to Jean, a sister to her daughters.

Jean started school at the old 1 room Bethel School. After 8th grade she attended and graduated from the University of Missouri Lab School in 1946. She went on to get an AA degree at Christian College in 1948. Jean was an Administrative Assistant at Stephens College from 1973 to 1994. She began her career as Administrative Assistant in the Math Department. She ended her career as Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Academics.

Jean had many talents. While at Christian College (Now Columbia College) she played field hockey. Jean also developed a love for volleyball. She played volleyball for years at the Armory with her team the “Oldies” while Joe was left at home with the kids! She also played tennis with her kids, helping them to become better players.

All grew up loving fishing, blessing each of her children with the same love. For years she and her family fished at her parent’s cabin at the Lake of the Ozarks. She later learned to fish off a dock in Florida on the Indian River. She was called “The Queen of the Dock.”

Jean was an amazing stay-at-home mother, wife, aunt and friend. She was a fabulous gardener and had beautiful flower beds. She maintained her garden up until the ripe age of 93! Her love of gardening passed on a love of nature to her children. Mom had green hands. We were lucky to get green fingers from her!

Jean was a wonderful cook of “down home” foods. She made sure Joe and the kids always had fruit and vegetables. But her specialties were fried chicken, pork chops, and amazing cherry pie!

She and Joe worked out in the gym at the YMCA in FL and their beloved ARC in Columbia MO. They made many wonderful friends wherever they went. All the friends she made were blessed to know her. She never met a stranger nor anyone she could not talk to. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

At Jean’s request, there will be no visitation or service. A graveside ceremony and burial will be held at Callaway Memorial Gardens in Fulton MO at 10:00 on April 7, 2023. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Preferred Hospise of Missouri Central, LLC or to a charity of your choice, c/o Debo Funeral Home, 833 Court St, Fulton, MO 65251

Online condolences may be made at www.debofuneralhome.com.

Posted online on April 15, 2023

Carla Waal Johns passed away peacefully on March 30, 2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was born on June 15, 1933 to Charles and Esther Waal in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Carla received a BS in Music from University of Richmond, an MS in Drama and Speech from the University of Virginia, and a PhD in Drama and Speech from Indiana University. She was a devoted professor and mentor at the University of Georgia from 1964-1973 and at the University of Missouri-Columbia from 1973-1992, where she was Chairperson of the Department of Speech and Dramatic Art from 1982-85.

She did additional study at the University of Oslo. Carla spoke Norwegian and Swedish and fully embraced her Norwegian heritage. She directed and performed in many plays and is still remembered for her performance as Ethel in "On Golden Pond" in 1982. She co-authored the anthology Hardship and Hope: Missouri Women Writing about Their Lives and performed its stories in a two-woman show. She wrote and translated several other books, including a biography about Harriet Bosse.

Carla married William Johns in 1999 and was welcomed into his family. They shared a love of music and art, and Carla was a gifted pianist. Carla and Bill moved to Minneapolis in 2013 to be closer to family. She quickly became an active member of the Walker Place community and is remembered for her lively presentations of "bedtime stories."

After Bill's death in 2015, Carla continued to be a devoted grandmother and dear friend to many. She will be greatly missed by daughters Susan Graber (Jack) and Amy Johns (Jim Jager), son David Johns, and five grandchildren and their families, including six great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to ChildFund International, or a charity of your choice.

Arthur Edward Gaus
November 30, 1924 – April 7, 2023



Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Arthur Edward Gaus, age 98, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on Friday, April 7, 2023.

Visitation will take place Wednesday, April 12 at 10:00 AM at Memorial Funeral Home, followed immediately by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Full military honors will be rendered at Memorial Park Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest to next to his beloved wife, Virginia.

Dr. Gaus is survived by his children Arlan, Alvan and Sharon, as well as a host of beloved extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture at www.columbiaurbanag.org.

Posted online on April 17, 2023

January 5, 1931 – April 13, 2023

Bernice Williams Wulff, 92, was born on a farm near Centralia, Missouri. She attended a one-room country school and graduated from Centralia High School in 1949. Bernice moved to Columbia and took her first job as a bookkeeper with BD Simon Construction Company while attending the University of Missouri. She met her future husband there and married Al Wulff on June 5, 1953 soon after he returned from the Korean War. Al and his brother, Bill Wulff, started their own construction company and Bernice, with her keen sense for numbers, became their secretary and bookkeeper. She filled this role for many years and even assisted her son’s business until her sudden death.

Bernice enjoyed many interests during her life. She loved watching all Mizzou sports, Cardinals baseball, fishing on Hulen Lake where Bernice and Al raised their family, working at the Boone County and State Fair Horse Shows, tennis, traveling, sewing and quilting, crossword puzzles and reading. Bernice was passionate about genealogy and belonged to many national genealogy groups where she also served in executive positions. She particularly liked her travels to Washington D.C. for national conventions and to work as a “genie.”

Bernice courageously battled cancer the past three years so that she could continue to enjoy her many friends, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She recently resided at Lenoir Woods where she met new friends and renewed old friendships with many residents.

Bernice was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Al Wulff; parents; sisters, Fern Turner, Bette Powers, and Marilyn Williams; brothers, Darwin Williams, Earl Williams, and Raymond Williams.

Bernice is survived by her children; Linda Wulff Risner of West Plains, Missouri, Susan (Steve) Turner of Kirkwood, Missouri, and David Wulff of Columbia; four grandchildren, Meg (Bill) Krenn, Todd (Meg) Turner, Alex (Emily) Wulff, and Anne (Alex) Meiners; eight great- grandchildren, Emory, Noah, Liam, and Taylor Krenn, Caitlin and Cecilia Turner, Jillian and Louis Wulff, and baby Meiners due in August; brother Martin (Sue) Williams; sisters Selma (Donald) Burnett and Gayle (late Roger) McCoy.

Services: Visitation and Celebration of Life will be held on April 24, 2023 at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM followed by graveside inurnment for both Bernice and Al.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: The Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri; CURE AHC at cureahc.org; Helping Hands Therapeutic Riding Program, West Plains, Missouri.

Posted online on April 17, 2023

Ronald H. Freeman entered into eternal life with his Lord Jesus Christ on Thursday, April 13, 2023. Ronald was one of six children born to Arles and Edith Freeman. He and his twin sister Rosalyn were born on August 20, 1939 in Terre Haute, Indiana.

He is survived by his twin Rosalyn Martin, of Bloomington, Indiana, and by their younger sister Patricia Schalburg of Terre Haute. Ronald married his wife Sandra on July 26, 1975 and she survives. They met while both were in graduate school at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. He and Sandra had one daughter, Leslie Freeman Taub, who lives with her family in New York City. Ron is also survived by Leslie's children Kyrk and Harriet Freeman, and by Harriet's children Jordan and Ashley Moore, all of New York.

Ronald was a member of Grace Reformed Church of Columbia. He was a professor of physiology at the University of Missouri School of Medicine (1972-2009) and was director of the basic science curriculum for medical students. He will be missed by his wife, his family and his friends.

A visitation for Ronald will be held Monday, April 24, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home/Columbia. A funeral service officiated by Pastor Gary McNamee will occur Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home/Columbia. An interment will occur at Highland Park Cemetery, Pittsburg, KS.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Freeman family.
Submitted by Susan written by her daughter Sarah

Dorothy Llewellyn Rodgers, M.D.
August 25, 1923 - April 16, 2023

Dr. Dorothy “Dottie” Llewellyn Rodgers passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 16, 2023 in Silver Spring, Maryland. She was 99 years old.

Dottie was born Dorothy Anne Llewellyn on August 25,1923 in Kashmir, India, where her parents were serving as Presbyterian missionaries. She attended boarding school at Woodstock School in India from 1930-1939. While at Woodstock she played piano and many sports, including hockey and badminton. She graduated at age16 and came to the United States via a five week boat trip.

Dorothy went to Western College in Ohio for one year, then transferred to West Virginia University, where she graduated in 1943 with a BA. She played basketball during college, was in premedical and womens’ honoraries, was president of her sorority, and was active in the YWCA. She received her medical degree from Washington University in 1950, where she was one of six women in her class of 106. She completed Obstetrics and Gynecology residency training at St. Louis Maternity and Jewish Hospitals in St Louis, Missouri.

Dottie met her husband Elrie Parker Rodgers in Morgantown, West Virginia in 1941. They wed on June 26, 1943 and remained married until his death in 1985. He, too, was a physician.

In 1955, Dr. Rodgers opened a private practice in Columbia, Missouri. At the time she was one of only two female physicians practicing in Columbia. She took a pause from her professional career in 1956 to stay at home with her three children - soon to become five! During this time she volunteered for La Leche and as the Health Chair for the PTA. She also served on the Boone County Task Force against Sexual Assault. She lobbied for progressive obstetric initiatives such as local anesthesia for childbirth and rooming-in for newborns.

Dr. Rodgers returned to the medical profession fifteen years later, when she was almost 50. After working at the Cancer Research Center, Planned Parenthood, and Stephens College, she found her professional passion in Student Health Services. Dr. Rodgers founded the gynecology clinic at the University of Missouri-Columbia Student Health Services, and served as Head of Gynecology from 1975-1990. She created and taught a protocol for treating sexual assault victims, entitled “Sexual Assault: Empathetic, Immediate, and Proper Care of the Victim.” She also volunteered at the Abuse, Assault, and Rape Crisis center. She taught at the University as an associate professor until 1996.

Dorothy retired at the age of 73. She moved to California in 2000, where she enjoyed gardening, water aerobics, tai chi, and romance. She remained involved in her community, volunteering at Orange Coast Memorial Hospital and Rotary International. Dottie traveled and remained very physically active well into her 80’s.

In 2011 she moved to Bloomington, Indiana, near her daughter Susan. Everywhere Dottie lived, she seemed to collect close friends and admirers who kept in touch with her throughout her life. In 2017 she moved to Maryland, where she spent her final years at Sunrise Senior Living in Silver Spring. While at Sunrise, Dottie enjoyed frequent visits from local family. During her first several years there, she was an active participant in a writing club and a knitting club, and she persuaded the director to create a program in which she could regularly read books aloud to local school children. Dottie continued to read voraciously, and to record her daily activities meticulously, until her very last few years.

Dottie was preceded in death by her parents, Eleanore and Frank Llewellyn; husband, Elrie Parker Rodgers; daughter, Ann Elizabeth Rodgers; life partners, Oliver Harwood and Richard Wilson; and sons-in-law, Dennis McGreer and Sean Strickland.

She is survived by four of her children: Susan (Michael, Dennis), Kathy, David (Carol), and Mary (Sean); her seven grandchildren: Sarah (Krista, Mary), Deborah (Andrés), Daniel (Kelsie), Iris, Titus, Hannah (Kyle), and Lydia; and her six great grandchildren: Parker, Nicolai, Jackson, Alexis, Kai, and Remi. Remarkably, all six great grandchildren were together with Dottie just three weeks before she died.

Dr. Dorothy Rodgers strongly believed in the importance of increasing educational and professional opportunities for women worldwide. She loved learning about the backgrounds of people she met. She read A.A. Milne, medical newsletters, and mystery novels. She had a deep appreciation for nature. She enjoyed mango lassis, garam chai, and hot cocoa. She was polite yet opinionated; deferential yet assertive. She was exceptionally accepting and supportive of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She will be fondly remembered as a charming, determined, intelligent woman with a flower in her hair.

At Dottie’s request, her body has been donated for medical education. There will not be a public memorial gathering at this time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the American Association of University Women, Heifer International, or a charity of your choice.

Submitted by, H T May & Son Funeral Home
2207 Holly Ave, Columbia, MO 65202

Helen Beatrice Kelly went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. She was born to the union of Smith Thomas Rogers and Dorothy Alice Rogers on February 3. 1924. She was 99 years old.

Her service will be held on Friday, April 28, 2023, at St. Paul AME Church. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 PM. Services will be live streamed at 1:00 PM through the HT May & Son Funeral Home Facebook page and can be found at https://www.facebook.com/htmayfuneralhome.

Helen Beatrice Kelly was born to the union of Smith Thomas Rogers and Dorothy Alice Rogers on February 3, 1924. She married John Milton Kelly on May 15, 1943. Two sons were born to this union, Rodney Quinn Kelly (deceased) and John Carl Kelly (Jacqueline) survives. She graduated from Douglass High School in Columbia, Missouri in 1941. She was a preschool teacher at Nora Stewart Nursery for 30 years. She touched the lives of countless young people.

She was lifelong member of St. Paul AME Church. She sang in the choir. She served on numerous boards and committees. She was a class leader and an active participant in St. Paul's Bible Study program. The church was a major part of her life.

She loved to travel internationally, she visited London, Paris and Rome. She also traveled with the Missouri Tigers Football and Men's Basketball teams. These athletes were always welcome to share a meal with her at her kitchen table.

Neighborhood kids were invited into her home. They came to play cards, basketball, pitch horseshoes, read books and eat popcorn. She showered each kid with love. She was the "neighborhood mom".

TO honor Beatrice Kelly's life and legacy, the family asks that the community renew its commitment to love and support each other in these difficult times.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to:
Nora Stewart Early Learning Center
505 E. Ash Street
Columbia, Missouri 65201

Posted online on April 28, 2023

OCTOBER 16, 1925 – APRIL 20, 2023

Dr. John Henry Kultgen, man of peace, philosopher, activist, and loving patriarch, died peacefully on Thursday, April 20th.

Jack was a professor of philosophy at the University of Missouri-Columbia from 1967 until his retirement in 2007, during which time he taught numerous courses in ancient philosophy, epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics, and proudly directed twenty-nine dissertations. In addition to a long and distinguished record of service to the University, Jack twice served as department chairman. Before coming to Missouri, Jack taught at Oregon State University and Southern Methodist University, where he was awarded full professorship in 1960 and served as the department chair from 1958-1967. At Missouri, Jack’s numerous contributions to the university were recognized with the Byler Distinguished Teaching Award, Peace Studies Professor of the Year Award, as well as nomination for the intercampus Thomas Jefferson Award.

In honor of his forty years of distinguished teaching and dedication to his students, the Philosophy Department renamed their fund for graduate student travel and scholarship the Kultgen Endowment Fund. Jack was the prolific author of over fifty articles and five books including In the Valley of the Shadow: Reflections on the Morality of Nuclear Deterrence, Intervention and Autonomy: Paternalism and the Caring Life, and Ethics and Professionalism. In addition, he was awarded three National Science Foundation Fellowships in Engineering Ethics; he was elected President of the Southwestern Philosophical Society and President of the Missouri Philosophical Association.

These were not just academic interests to Jack; they guided his commitment to justice and equality in his community and beyond. He served as the president of the ACLU chapters in both Dallas, TX and Columbia, MO, and the co-chair of the Dallas Catholic Interracial Council. In addition, he was active in Veterans for Peace, Peace Studies, and the Columbia Human Rights Commission. He was also a life-long Dallas Cowboy fan, a classical music aficionado, and a voracious reader of poetry, fiction, and history.

Jack was born in Dallas, Texas in 1925. He, his brother David and his parents John Henry Sr. and Reba Mickelborough moved to Waco in 1936, where his father was a prominent businessman and community leader. Jack graduated summa cum laude from the University of Texas in 1947, and received his Ph. D from the University of Chicago in 1951.

From 1943 to 1946 he served in the United States Navy where he was recruited for training in Chinese Language at the Navy Oriental Language School at the University of Colorado Boulder.

Jack was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather to his large, blended family. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Aline; children David (Helen), John (Peggy), Mary (Larry), Rebecca (Chris), Michael (Amy), Rachel Hall (William), and Daniel Hall (Cindy); 18 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents and brother, and the mother of five of his children, Phyllis Biggs Kultgen.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Amnesty International or The John Kultgen Department of Philosophy Fund: giving.missouri.edu/john-kultgen.

A celebration of his life is being planned to take place in Columbia this summer and will be posted to this website.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Kultgen family.

SUBMITTED BY PARKER-MILLARD FUNERAL SERVICE

Billy Neil Day passed away peacefully in Fulton, Missouri on April 22, 2023, at the age of 92 with his wife, Annabelle at his side.

He was born in Arthur, West Virginia on October 23, 1930, to John Blair and Lena Lee (Patch) Day. He grew up in Arthur with three brothers where he learned to hunt, fish, garden, raise cattle and love dogs. He developed a can-do approach to tackling new skills and put that approach into action when he decided to figure out how to raise turkeys to fund his education.

Billy graduated from Petersburg High School in 1948 then received his BS degree (1952) and MS degree (1954) from West Virginia University. While at WVU, he met the love of his life, Virginia Annabelle Wilson, and they married in 1953.

In 1954, Billy was drafted into the United States Army, destined for the Army of Occupation. During his intake, his degree in biological sciences was noted so he was reassigned to a research position at the Dugway Proving Grounds near Provo, Utah. It was there that he first published scientific findings. Billy was honorably discharged in September 1956.

Upon earning his PhD in Reproductive Physiology from Iowa State University in 1958, Dr. Day began his career as an assistant professor at the University of Missouri-Columbia where he remained until his retirement as Professor Emeritus in 2000. During his career, Billy had over 270 scientific publications and he mentored many graduate students that went on to succeed at universities and in industry. His work included discoveries in swine reproduction that resulted in technological and management applications that advanced the efficiency of swine production worldwide.

Dr. Day was also an engaging teacher, helping students learn about animal reproduction at Mizzou for over 4 decades. He was instrumental in establishing the innovative “Food for the 21st Century Program” at UMC. He was recognized nationally and internationally for his excellence through invitations to speak across the world. Billy was a distinguished alumnus at WVU and ISU and a Distinguished Professor at Mizzou. He received the most prestigious awards possible from both the American Society of Animal Science and the Society for the Study of Reproduction for his lifetime contributions to reproductive physiology.

Everywhere he went, Billy saw someone he knew or soon would know. He cherished meals with friends and family and enjoyed sharing conversations or a good joke. In trying to explain human behavior through nature, he would ask, “Where in the animal kingdom?”. He followed the Kansas City Chiefs, Mizzou football, basketball, volleyball, and softball and bet many candy bars on his favorite teams. He loved a good western and an intriguing novel.

Billy is survived by his wife of 69 years and by his sons Billy Day of Knob Noster, Missouri, Michael Day (Toni) of Olsburg, Kansas and Jeffrey Day (Becky) of Manchester, Missouri, and daughters Tamara Day Callahan (Christopher) of Indianapolis and Jeanenne Day of Columbia, Missouri. He is also survived by his grandchildren Tricia Day, Ryan Callahan (Laura), Bridget Callahan (Phil Norris), Travis Day (Amanda), Leslie Day, Brian Day, and Jennifer Day, by great-grand daughters Sharon (Dustin), Tory, Lois, and Joan and by great-great-grandsons Colton and Connor.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 6, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Parker-Millard Funeral Services and Crematory in Columbia, Missouri.

Please consider honoring Billy with a donation to Central Missouri Hospice 1001 Southwest Blvd. Jefferson City, MO 65109, or The Alzheimer’s Association- Greater Missouri Chapter 2609 E. Broadway Suite: 119, Columbia, MO 65201 https://www.alz.org/greatermissouri?form=alz_donate.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Carol Louise Hull of Pensacola, Fl, formerly of Columbia, MO passed away on April 30, 2023, and went to be with our heavenly father. Carol was born on May 7, 1931, to William Peter Emig and Helga Christina (Nelson) Emig in Newman Grove, Nebraska. Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her only sister Eleanor Marie (Emig) Lacy, her niece, Patricia Ann (Lacy) Fjerstad, and her husband Ivan Lester Hull.

Carol married Ivan Hull on February 25, 1950, in Newman Grove, NE and they had one son, William Charles Hull. While Ivan served in the US Air Force, Carol lived in South Dakota, Nebraska, Florida and overseas in Madrid, Spain before they moved to Columbia, MO in 1965. Once residing in Columbia Carol worked for Greenspon’s Clothing Store and for the University of Missouri Medical Center as a supervisor in the Pathology department.

During her life Carol was a dedicated wife to her husband and mother to her son and was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Columbia. Carol was a wonderful cook and baker, known for her gooseberry pies and homemade cinnamon rolls. Her hobbies also included crocheting, needlepoint, and gardening. After her husband’s death she continued to live in Columbia for many years until August of 2022 when she moved to Florida to be near her son and his wife.

Carol is survived by her son, William and his wife Michalene of Pace, FL, a niece Linda (Lacy) Nace of Omaha, NE, a granddaughter Tracy Jean Perry and husband Eric of Normal, IL, and two great grandsons Wyatt and Jack Perry also of Normal, IL and a grandniece, Erica Wiedemann of Seminole, FL .

She is also survived by step granddaughters Emily Janssen and her husband Michael and Brooke Stoller and her husband Jed both of Bloomington, IL, a step grandson Gregory Alderman and wife Jennifer of St Johns, FL and two great step granddaughters Carli and Ellie Alderman also of St Johns, FL.

The visitation and the funeral will be at Trinity Lutheran Church 2201 W Rollins Rd., Columbia, MO on May 12, 2023 with the visitation beginning at 10:00 and the funeral at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.

We commit Carol’s soul to God with sorrow, but we celebrate with joy that God has reunited her with her beloved husband Ivan.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Hull family.

Submitted by Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Bonita "Bonnie" Winberg
JULY 26, 1947 – MAY 5, 2023
Obituary of Bonita "Bonnie" Winberg

Bonita "Bonnie" Winberg of Ashland, MO passed away peacefully at home on the morning of Friday, May 5th, 2023. She was 75 years of age and in the last days of her life she was surrounded by her family and friends.

Bonnie was born in Atchison, Kansas on July 26th, 1947 to William Harold Martin and Marjorie Marie Jones. As a child Bonnie was an avid reader and was very active in school playing in the band and on the softball team. She was a graduate of Dekalb High School, class of 1965, Dekalb, MO. Bonnie then went on to earn a degree in Library Science from Missouri Western College in St. Joseph MO.

She worked several Federal government jobs and retired as an Administrative Assistant for the U.S.D.A. In her retirement she enjoyed reading, scrapbooking and most of all spending time with her family. Bonnie loved traveling with her husband Bob Winberg and they had many wonderful and exciting adventures together. She was a very talented artist and was always creating amazing and thoughtful gifts through scrapbooking and card making. She loved being a grandmother and was also known as Mimi. Bonnie believed in putting others first and will be remembered for her patience, kindness, and strength.

Bonnie was a devoted wife and mother to her family. She is survived by her husband, Robert "Bob" Winberg of Ashland, MO; sons; Justin R. Gregory (Beth), Columbia, MO; Jared Gregory and granddaughter Graycie Gregory, Columbia, MO; stepchildren: Jennifer Stolzenbach (Brian) of Chicago, IL and their children Henry, Sydney, Charlotte and Merritt Stolzenbach; Jadin Winberg (Kristen) and their children, Noah and Elenor Winberg, Kansas City, MO; Kendra Shabel (Josh), Columbia, MO; sister, Janelle Moore (Larry), Knob Noster, MO and their son Levi Moore (Holly) Delano, MN; and sister, Faith Ann Martin, St Joseph, MO.

The family would like to send a special thank you to the staff of Gentiva Hospice for the care they provided.

Friends and family may gather for a visitation on Tuesday, May 9 from 11:00 AM to noon at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. A funeral service officiated by Kevin Matthews will immediately follow. Bonnie will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture (columbiaurbanag.org) or Voice of the Martyrs (persecution.com/donate).

Posted online on May 12, 2023

William Elmer Mueller, age 88, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Wednesday, May 10, 2023.

He was born on February 4, 1935, in Jefferson City, Mo., the son of Elmer William Mueller and Bernadine Elizabeth Goeller. During a night out at the local VFW, a pretty girl laughing with her girlfriends caught Bill's eye. They began dating days later and on October 21, 1961 in Jefferson City, he and Judith Ann Gabler were united in marriage. Judy preceded Bill in passing on May 24, 2008.

Bill was a graduate from Jefferson City High School where he played basketball for the Jays. After graduation he went on to study at the American Engineer and Baking School in Chicago, Ill.

Bill had a passion for baking and considered it an art. He started out as a Baker with the Jefferson City Baking Company, a co-owned family business in Jefferson City. He later accepted a position with Nowell's Grocery Store in Columbia, Mo., where he worked as the bakery manager for many years. Bill was dedicated to providing for his family and through his working years, regularly worked 60+ hour weeks to ensure his wife was able to be home caring for their four sons.

He was a faithful member of Immanuel Lutheran Church and the Brazito-Honey Creek Lions Club. He was also proud to have served in the Missouri Army National Guard.

When not working, Bill was an outdoorsman. He spent time caring for their family farms and cutting cedar logs and firewood for sale, as well as for personal use. One of his favorite activities was escaping to the Moreau River where he could indulge in camping, fishing and coon hunting; activities he cherished being able to share with his family. In his later years, Bill often could be found birdwatching from his back deck. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his feathered friends and was happy to share the information and identifications with others.

Above everything, Bill loved and appreciated his family. Bill was a positive, patient, and generous man that grew up knowing that a good handshake meant something and always will. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Bill is survived by: three sons, Alan Mueller (Peggy Plato) of Jefferson City, Mo., Mike Mueller (Ruth Rosenhauer) of Jefferson City, Mo., and Steven Mueller (Julie Huhman) of Jefferson City, Mo.; brother-in-law Jack Gabler (Mary) of Edwardsville, Ill.; eight grandchildren, James Mueller (Deanne), Nicholas Mueller (Lindsey), Lauren Radford (Shane), Mary Manseau (Steven), Karl Mueller (Michaela), Daniel Mueller, Torey Mueller (Conner Clogston), and Madeline Mueller; and three great-grandkids, Melodi, Everlea, and Gemma.

He is preceded in death by: his loving wife, Judith; parents Elmer and Bernadine; son, Bruce Daniel Mueller and granddaughter, Stephanie Michelle Mueller.

Visitation will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., Monday, May 15, 2023.

Funeral services will be conducted at 12:00 p.m. Monday, May 15, 2023, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Honey Creek, Mo with Vicar Steve Resner and the Reverend Samuel Powell officiating. Graveside services and interment will be held at the Immanuel Lutheran Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Immanuel Lutheran Church and School or the Brazito-Honey Creek Lions Club by mailing condolences to P.O. Box 95, Jefferson City, Mo., 65102.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.

www.freemanmortuary.com

Submitted by Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203

Leon C. Guyton, age 83, departed this life on May 14, 2023, with his family by his side. Not only was Leon a beloved husband and father. He was a genuine brother, uncle, cousin, and friend.

Leon was born August 10, 1939, in Warrensburg, Missouri, the son of the late Rev. John W. Guyton and Oline Alice (Kelby) Guyton. Leon was the youngest son of five siblings.

Leon was a graduate of Central High School in St. Joseph, Missouri in 1957. While at Central High School, Leon played varsity basketball and ran on the varsity track team. Leon would also earn recognition, lettering in both sports.

Taking a break away from academics, Leon enlisted in the United States Army where he served 2 years as a medic. After being honorably discharged in 1965, Leon went on to graduate from Lincoln University earning a Bachelor of Science degree. He would also pursue a short career in the medical field where he worked as an EMT at Boone Hospital. It was there that he met the love of his life the late Eulastine “Dee” Williams and they would later marry on August 16, 1969. He devoted more than 50 years of marriage to his wife Eulastine “Dee” Guyton. From that marriage, two children were born.

Ending his time with Boone Hospital, Leon embarked on an almost 30-year career with State Farm Insurance as an Insurance Underwriter.

Other than a gracious heart for all, a caring smile, and the gift of gab, yes Leon loved to talk. Leon had numerous hobbies. Leon enjoyed riding motorcycles and was a member of the "peace makers" motorcycle club. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, and bowling, and had a loving heart for animals, dogs being his favorite. Leon also enjoyed competitions that he found playing table tennis, playing chess, pitching horseshoes, and playing cards and board games.

Leon is survived by his two children Jason of Normal, IL, and Tina of Peoria, IL. Two sisters Celestine Hayes (late Rev Raymond Hayes) of Columbia, Missouri, Evelyn Butler (Gene) also of Columbia, Missouri Betty Guyton (John). Several nieces, nephews, and a host of family, family-like, and friends.

Leon is preceded in death by his mother, father, his wife, Eulastine “Dee” Guyton, brother, John W. Guyton, and sister, Helen R Warren (Guyton).

Friends will be received Friday, May 26, 2023, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Parker-Millard Funeral Service in Columbia, Missouri. Funeral services will begin following the visitation hour at 1:00 pm. Burial with full military honors will take place imminently after services at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on May 16, 2023

In the early morning hours of May 15, 2023, Billie Vinee Arbuckle Cottle flew free from the bonds of earth to rest in peace with her savior, Jesus Christ, smiling down on us with her enchanting smile once again.

Billie Vinee Arbuckle was born in Holland, Texas on April 13, 1935, the daughter of Charlie and Bessie Arbuckle. A red-headed Texas girl, she was raised in Austin and graduated with honors from Austin High School. As the mysterious ways of love and chance collided, she met Airman Kenneth Cottle, a curly haired Columbia native, and sparks flew! Billie and Ken were united in marriage on July 21, 1955 and moved to Ken’s hometown of Columbia, Missouri, where they made their home for the rest of her life. They welcomed three beautiful sons over the years as they made a life together, loving family and friends and each other.

Billie V. was a beautiful, intelligent and caring individual who contributed her time and talents to her family, working for schools that her sons attended, and supporting and leading school organizations such as the PTA. After her sons were older, Billie earned an associate degree in psychology at Columbia College. She began working for Boone County Hospital in public relations and retired from her career there as assistant to the president and secretary for the board of directors. In retirement, she enjoyed spending time with family, traveling with Ken and friends, reading, movies, music, and playing cards. She loved God, and regularly attended Olivet Christian church.

Billie is survived by her husband Kenneth Nelson Cottle; two sons: Barry Laine (Susan) Cottle and Brice Patrick (Marcia) Cottle; daughter-in-law: Amelia Miner Cottle; six adored and cherished grandchildren: Chris Cottle, Blake Cottle (Sara), Halle Cottle, Taylor Cottle, William Cottle, Katherine Cottle; and one great grandson, Bennett Cottle.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her six siblings, and her first-born son Brian Nelson Cottle.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, May 20th, 2023, from 10 AM – 11 AM at Memorial Funeral Home. A private burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Greater Missouri Alzheimer’s Association – Columbia Walk, in care of the funeral home.

Please share memories and expressions of sympathy for the Cottle family at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on May 22, 2023

Dorothy Puidk, age 83, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on May 18, 2023 at Columbia Manor. She was born on August 7, 1939 in Wayne County, Tennessee; the daughter of Ottie Tharpe and Bessie Frank Tharpe. She was united in marriage to Michael Puidk on August 12, 1978 in Hohenwald, TN.

Dorothy graduated high school in 1957 and received her degree as a Registered Nurse (RN) from St. Thomas School of Nursing in Nashville. She began a long career in nursing, which included service as a proud member of the Tennessee Air National Guard and 13 years at the University of Missouri Hospital and Clinics, before retiring in 2000.

She loved sports, especially her Tennessee Volunteers and the St. Louis Cardinals, and impressed many with her robust sports knowledge. She also enjoyed hymns, traveling (especially to Hawaii), shopping, pizza, cats, and spending time with her family. She had a very special place in her heart for her church and her faith.

Dorothy is survived by her loving husband, Michael Puidk of Columbia; her daughters, Jessica Puidk of Columbia, Sarah Puidk of Columbia, Courtney Puidk of Washington DC, Rachel Holzman and husband Mike of Denver, CO who are expecting her first grandchild in July; Sister-in-law, Paula Tharpe and niece and nephew Jenny Smith and Jeremy Tharpe. Dorothy was preceded by her parents, one brother Paul Tharpe, and nephew Jason Tharpe.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, June 9th at the Community United Methodist Church in Columbia with a visitation to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Rainbow Network at www.rainbownetwork.org.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nilson-Millard Cremation and Burial Center, 5611 E. St Charles Road, Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 474-8443. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.

Submitted by Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Henry C Semon, age 94, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on Saturday, May 20, 2023 with his wife Anita of 71 years by his side. Henry and Anita have two children, John Semon (Kay) and Jill Semon-Clark (David). Grandchildren: Don, Kimberly, Danielle, Hannah, and Jacqui, and 9 great-grandchildren.

Henry grew up near Woodlandville, rode his horse to school, was a graduate of Hickman High School class of '45, served in the United States Army, and proudly owned Henderson Implement Company from 1968-2006.

The family will hold a private service.

A celebration of life will be held June 24, time TBD.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Semon family.

Submitted by,Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E Ash St,Columbia MO 65203

Carl Henry Niewoehner, age 97, of Columbia, passed away on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at his home. He was born on October 9, 1925, in Kirkwood, Missouri, the son of Carl and Anna (Rueter) Niewoehner.

Carl graduated from Kirkwood High School in 1943 and received his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Missouri in 1949. He married Gloria Mercer on March 24, 1951, and they were married 63 years until her passing in 2014. They would have one son: Eric.

Carl served as Lieutenant and Commander during World War II from 1943 to 1946. He would serve in the Navy Reserve until 1961. He would continue to serve veterans through the American Legion, serving as commander of the post in Columbia. Upon retirement, he would serve on the Missouri Veterans Commission from 1994-2005, serving three years as chairman. Served on the commissioning committee of the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier. Most significantly, served 28 years as a volunteer at the VA Hospital from 1989-2018. Was the recipient of the President’s Call to Service Award in 2002. Recipient of the Department Appreciation Award from the Disabled American Veterans in 2004. Named outstanding volunteer at the VA in 2006. Recipient of the Outstanding Merit Award form the Department of Veteran Affairs in 2009 and 2011.

After receiving his degree in 1949, Carl applied his engineering skills in St. Louis, New Orleans and Oklahoma before moving to Columbia in 1955. Thanks to the help of Harold Riback, he got his feet upon the ground, building a consulting firm that he would eventually sell to Ellerbe and Associates in 1973 before “retiring” in 1977. He continued to work as a consulting engineer until 1987.

Recognized member of the Scottish Rite, Knights Templar, Royal Arch Masons, and Shriners. Served in leadership of Kiwanis, Oakland Christian church, and University of Missouri Engineering Alumni. Inducted in the MU Civil Engineering Academy of Distinguished Alumni. Served on the MU Engineering Dean’s Public Policy Advisory Board.

Served on the City of Columbia Building Code Committee, Boone County Building Code Commission, Regional Sewer District (chairman), Boone County Storm Water Commission (chairman), United Way (Section and Division leader, board member), Lenoir Retirement Center (board member and secretary). Served in the House of Representatives 1965-1968, a Muleskinner to his last breath.

Carl enjoyed gardening at home, but most known in his family for his month-long excursions to the Canadian wilderness each year.

Carl accomplished much in his life. But most importantly he was a man who remained faithful to his wife and true to his word.

He is survived by his son, Eric Niewoehner, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Gloria; and his brother Walter.

Services will be held at a future date where he will be interred at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, Missouri with full military honors.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Carolyn "Carol" K Krause
APRIL 18, 1950 – MAY 24, 2023
Obituary of Carolyn "Carol" K Krause

IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Carolyn K. “Carol” (Wright) Krause, 73, of Columbia passed away on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, peacefully at home.
Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Memorial Funeral Home. Celebration of Life will follow at 3:30 p.m. at the funeral home.

Carol was born on April 18, 1950, in Malden, MO, as the daughter of Grover and Oca Edyth (Molloy) Wright. She married the love of her life, Kenneth Michael “Mike” Krause, on June 8, 1975, in Columbia, MO. Carol attended SMSU for her undergraduate degree and obtained her Master’s Degree and Ph.D. in Theatre from the University of Missouri.

Carol held various positions with Missouri University, enjoyed teaching others the art of playwriting, and she authored numerous plays. Her plays "Daughters" and "Uncle Jack" earned the Norman Lear and the David Library Playwriting awards. "Charlotte Cushman" was produced at New York’s Circle Rep Lab and Chicago’s SummerNITE. Her play, "The Car" had a staged reading at NYC’s LaMama New Voices and has been produced in a number of college and community theatres, as well as the South Carolina Repertory Theatre. "Jo Nell Johnson & Ruthie Mapes" was developed at the Shenandoah Playwriting Retreat and was first produced in 1991 at Hanover College, Hanover, IN. The play, "The Dryad" enjoyed a successful 2014 run at Barter Theatre, and she was selected playwright for the 2016 Winter Playwright’s Retreat with HBMG Foundation and Creede Repertory Theatre.

Carol had many passions in her life and enjoyed many interests. She was a longtime member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, a devoted family historian, and conducted many years of genealogical research for family and friends. She shared her vocal talent with the Columbia Sacred Harp Shape Note Singers and was a member of the Writers Guild of America, west. Carol was honored to be a member of the “Booches’ Babes” – a group of compassionate, courageous, generous, wonderful women that know the true meaning of unwavering, long-lasting friendships.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents and husband. She is survived by her brother, Joe Wright (Dianna), of Olathe, KS, her aunt Sumiko Molloy, of Springfield, MO, and many cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Donor’s Choice, c/o Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West, Columbia, MO, 65202.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Krause family.

Mrs. Dorothy F Anderson
JUNE 20, 1924 – MAY 27, 2023
Obituary of Mrs. Dorothy F Anderson
IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Dorothy F. Anderson, 98, of Columbia passed away Saturday, May 27, 2023 at The Neighborhoods.
A memorial service for all who remember Dorothy will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday June 10 at First Presbyterian Church in Columbia. A reception will follow the service at the church. Private inurnment will be alongside her beloved husband, Laurel, at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Dorothy was born on a farm alongside the Red River in northwest Minnesota to Charles Vernon and Amy Swanson Fobes. She married Laurel E. Anderson April 30, 1949 in Moorhead, MN.

Dorothy grew up on a 160 acre farmstead in the fertile but oft-flooded Red River plain. In high school during the depression she became a champion sheep showman, winning awards at the state fair. She attended Moorhead State College during the war years with the angst of the time for family and friends in peril. She developed her public and religious singing during this time. Graduating at the war's end, she undertook a career of teaching high school science, primarily biology.

Following her marriage to Laurel they resided in Morris, MN, before relocating to the University of Minnesota for Laurel to pursue a career in weed science. The first faculty position took the couple and their first child, Carl, to Manhattan, KS. Vernon and Betty increased the family in the first years there when Dorothy became involved in PTA and civic affairs. Here she began pursuing her long-standing interest in flowers, maintaining an iris and daylily garden.

In 1965 the family moved to what was then southwest Columbia, near Russell Boulevard, where she lived for 45 years. In these years she contributed to Trinity and First Presbyterian Churches, singing in the choir for over 40 years and was rewarded with an honorary life membership in Presbyterian Women. She notably contributed to numerous other organizations: the Columbia Swimming Club, the Scandinavian Club, Iris, Daylily and African Violet flower clubs. As an empty nester, Dorothy “retired” from her position at Stephens College in the Bookstore and Business Office and obtained a Masters degree in computer science, allowing her to work for the Missouri Department of Conservation developing a
program for fisheries management. She found an interest in art becoming a recognized creator of Scandinavian folk art which she sold at midwest art and craft sales.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Laurel, and siblings Margaret Tabbut and V. Homer Fobes.

She is survived by their three children: Carl (Brynn BecVar) Anderson of Austin, TX; Vernon (Elizabeth Jones) Anderson of Wilmington, DE; Betty (Fred) Stiefel of Victor, IA. By eight grandchildren: Kirsten (Mark) Robbins of Indianapolis, IN; Byron (Debbie) Anderson of Encinitas, CA, Erin (Lindsey) Orrick of Montgomery, TX; Eric (Rachel Casebolt) Anderson of Waynesboro, VA; David (Michaela Restivo) Anderson of Philadelphia, PA; Thomas (Darci Madden) Stiefel of Tiffin, IA; Peter (Sarah Honson) Stiefel of Victor, IA; and Joseph (Jacob Simpson) Stiefel of Bloomington, IN. Also eight great grandchildren (by age): Haiden Anderson, Maya Orrick, Landon Orrick, Fjola Robbins, Paxton Anderson, Sybil Anderson, Oliver Stiefel and Jasper Anderson.

In honor of her love of music, memorial contributions can be made to First Presbyterian Church (write "music program" in the memo line),16 Hitt St, Columbia, MO 65201. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Submitted by, Nilson-Millard Cremation & Burial Center, 5611 E. St. Charles Rd.; Columbia, MO 65202.

Anna May Creech slipped into the embrace of Jesus Christ, her Savior, and Lord on May 29, 2023. Anna May was born January 19, 1942, to Irene and Fred Whitaker in Bethany, Missouri. Her family moved to Columbia in 1944 where her father worked for the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. She graduated from the University Laboratory School and received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing in 1964 from the University of Missouri.

Anna practiced as a nurse at the University of Missouri Hospital for over 30 years and cared for many who were sick and in need of comfort. She retired in 2000 and spent time enjoying her grandchildren, quilting, gardening, and helping others. She cared for many of her family members who needed her love and care.

She loved life, her children, her grandchildren, and loved to travel on family vacations. She made her peace with God whose forgiveness was such a wonderful, free gift. She felt she was not prepared to live until she was prepared to die.

She is survived by her husband and two daughters, Diana May Bond and husband Jonathan, Sylvia Jane Taylor and husband Timothy Dale, all of Columbia, MO; five grandchildren: Joshua Bond, Melanie Ann Bond, Alexander Taylor, and twins, Austin and Aaron Taylor. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Bill Langenbacher and nieces Julie May Stappenbeck and husband Thad, Brenda Marie Sperry and husband Doug; many cousins, in-laws, and other family members across the country, too many to list.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Frances Langenbacher; her infant brother, Robert Duane; her parents Fred Duane and Irene Whitaker; several aunts and uncles; a niece Susan Jane, who died soon after birth; her paternal grandparents, James and May Whitaker; James and Anna Aulthouse (her mother’s adoptive parents); and her mother’s biological grandparents, Samuel and Verna Mae Gilbert.

She leaves her love to her family and desires that there will be an unbroken circle in Heaven. In lieu of a formal “memorial”, she requests that those who are concerned would consider an even greater gift: That of forgiveness. Forgive those who have wronged you, seek forgiveness of those you have hurt, and most precious of all, receive the Divine Forgiveness from the One who so lovingly offers it to All who would believe, or Rock Bridge Church of God, or to the American Bible Society, P.O. Box 96812, Washington, D.C. 20090-6812

Due to the severe medical condition of one of the members, the family asks that if you choose to attend the services, please refrain from wearing any perfumes or essential oils.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Nilson-Millard Cremation and Burial Center.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nilson-Millard Cremation & Burial Center, 5611 E. St. Charles Rd.; Columbia, MO 65202. (573) 474-8443. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.

Obituary of Ralph Jerome Cox
IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Ralph Jerome Cox passed away peacefully on June 1, 2023. Ralph was born near Climax, Georgia on December 23, 1935, to William Chapel and Nellie Thomas Cox. He graduated from Climax High School in 1953 and joined the military. He spent four years in the Army then 16 years, twenty-five days in the Air Force. He was a flight engineer on a C-130 aircraft. He spent time in over 200 countries, including Korea and Vietnam. While in Korea, he started writing the love of his life, Laura Ingrum. A courtship bloomed from this pen pal relationship. They were married at the Little Bonne Femme Baptist Church in Columbia, MO on November 20, 1959. They were married for 64 years and raised a son and a daughter. Together they traveled while he was in the military, and they lived in several different states.

After his retirement from the Air Force, Ralph and Laura moved back to Missouri and bought a farm in Boone County, MO where they farmed. Ralph also worked for the US Postal Service as a letter carrier for twenty years then was a driver for O.A.T.S. for sixteen years. If that wasn’t enough, he also worked as Event Staff at the University of Missouri. Ralph was able to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Business from Columbia College. While his children were young, he volunteered with 4-H for several years and served on the board for Water District #9.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Laura, a son, Norman (Maria) Cox, a daughter, Denise (Mike) Riley, grandchildren: Andrew (Alyysha) Cox, Laura Beth (Alex) Cox, Christina Cox, Will (Kelsey) Riley, and Nathan Riley and several nieces and nephews, especially niece, Marilyn Toalson who spent many wonderful moments with Ralph recently and over the years. He is also survived by a brother, James Cox from Marietta, Georgia and a dear sister-in-law, Bessie Cox, of Florida.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, infant son Nelson Chapel, three sisters, and four brothers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Central Missouri Honor Flight, 1400 Forum Blvd., Ste. 7-A, Box 334 Columbia, MO 65203 or to www.centralmissourihonorflight.com/donate/.

Funeral services for Ralph will be held Friday, June 9, 2023 at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, Missouri 65202. Visitation from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, a funeral service at 1:00 PM and a graveside service with military honors to follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Cox family.

Posted online on June 06, 2023

Viola Sue Watson, 88, of Boonville passed away Monday, June 5, 2023, at Riverdell Care Center. Graveside service for Viola will be held Friday, June 9, 2023, at Locust Grove Methodist Church Cemetery at 9:00 a.m.

Viola Sue Watson was born September 14, 1934, the daughter of Leon and Dora Mae (Johnson) Griggs. Viola married the love of her life Robert Watson June 1, 1951, in Harrison, Arkansas. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. Viola loved to be outdoors, gardening, bird watching, fishing or just sitting under a shade tree. She was a lifelong member of the Locust Grove Methodist Church, Viola also enjoyed cooking, she was the best cook. She always loved her fur babies Charmin, Willie, and Spike. Viola was dearly loved and will be missed.

Viola is preceded in death by her parents, husband Robert Watson, children David and Bruce Watson and Diana Jones and sister-in-law Mary Ann Griggs. She is survived by her son Robert Watson II (Tanya), brother Richard Griggs and sister Linda (Frank) Thomas. She also leaves behind grandchildren Johnathan, Dylan, and Ethan Watson, Nicole Russell, Erin Montes, Amanda Worster and Carrie Sirard and 13 great grandchildren.

Memorial contributions are suggested to American Alzheimer’s Association. Online condolences may be left at: www.howardfh.com.

Posted online on June 06, 2023

Thomas Roy "Tom" Gottsman, 69, of Columbia, and formerly of Marshall, died on Monday, June 5, 2023, at his home.

Tom was born on October 3, 1953, in Germany where his parents, Roy and Loretta (Gaddy) Gottsman, were stationed at the time. He married Patricia Ann "Patty" Woodmansee of Marshall, on August 11, 1977. She preceded him in death on November 14, 2016.

Survivors include: two daughters, Jennifer (Larry) Smith of Columbia and Jayna Gottsman of Jefferson City; 6 grandchildren, Kali Gunn, Lillianna Gottsman, Elizabeth Smith, Zaiden Smith, Ta'Laija Smith and Tre'Shon Smith; and a sister, Rhonda Riley of Kansas City.

He was preceded in death his parents and wife.

After being born in Germany and his father honorably discharged from the army his family returned to the Marshall area. Tom worked in road construction his entire life and retired early in the late 90's. He was a proud member of the Construction Industry Laborers Union. He will be deeply missed by all his family who he loved so dearly. Tom was a Christian man.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Antioch Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be dropped off or mailed to in care of the family to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 E. Main - P. O. Box 190, Richmond, 64085

Graveside services will be held on, Thursday, June 8, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Antioch Cemetery northwest of Norborne. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Thurman Funeral Home in Norborne prior to graveside services. Please remember to share your memories of Tom with the family by visiting our website www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.

Posted online on June 07, 2023

Micheal J. Arenella Jr. of Columbia, MO. Passed away surrounded by his family.

Micheal loved spending time with his family and friends as well as making and shooting fireworks, by far his biggest passion was playing his guitar and making music.

Micheal is survived by his wife, HollyAnn Arenella whom he was married to for 54 wonderful years.

Also his children Steven, Charlene, and Joanna, two grandchildren, Tyler and Wren, and great-grandson Liahm.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 25th from 12 to 5 with light refreshments being served. @ The Vineyards Clubhouse located @ 5200 Stone Mountain Pkwy, Columbia, MO 65201.

Posted online on June 10, 2023

Richard Alan Finkelstein, Ph.D., microbiologist, educator, researcher, and professor emeritus, died at home in Columbia, Missouri on June 8, 2023 at age 93. He was globally respected by the scientific community for his catalytic research into cholera—a potentially fatal infectious disease that resulted in seven pandemics over the past two centuries—and his efforts to create a vaccine for it.

Born in New York City, Finkelstein discovered his interest in bacteriology while attending the Bronx High School of Science. He enrolled, at age 16, at the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in 1950. He then received his Master’s and his Ph.D. at the University of Texas-Austin where his doctoral thesis began the start of his research into cholera—which remained his focus over his 50-year career.

While working as a teaching fellow in the microbiology department at University of Texas-Austin, he married Helen Rosenberg. They had three children—Sheri, Mark and Laurie—before they moved in 1958 when he became chief of the bioassay section at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) in Washington, D.C.

From 1964 to 1967, the family lived in Bangkok, Thailand, where Dr. Finkelstein was chief of the department of bacteriology and mycology at the United States Medical Compound at the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization’s (SEATO) Cholera Research Laboratory in Bangkok. He attained the rank of major in the United States Army Reserves Medical Service Corps and was honorably discharged in 1966 after sixteen years of service. Dr. Finkelstein and family returned to the United States in 1967 where he was a Professor in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. After they divorced, Helen R. Finkelstein passed away in 1977.

In 1976, he married Dr. Mary Boesman-Finkelstein, a biochemist in his laboratory at the university. The same year, he received the Robert Koch Prize, the highest science award given by the German government.

Dr. Finkelstein was recruited as Chairman of the Department of Microbiology by the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine in 1979 and the couple moved. Two years later, their “recombinant DNA product,” Sarina, was born. Dr. Finkelstein became instrumental in developing the department through his recruitment of exceptional faculty, his own research, 243 publications in peer-reviewed scientific literature, and the significant grant funding he secured. Dr. Boesman-Finkelstein, who worked with her husband for 30 years, was a co-author of many of those publications until she passed away in 2007. The Drs. Finkelstein welcomed postdoctoral students and scientists into their home from many different countries. Together with Sarina they traveled frequently, collaborating with and presenting their research at scientific conferences around the world.

During his tenure, Dr. Finkelstein was designated as a Millsap Distinguished Professor from 1985 to 2000, received a Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Faculty Research in Biological Sciences, a Sigma Xi Research Award, and was a Curators’ Professor from 1990 to 2000, all at the University of Missouri. Finkelstein was also a member of the American Society for Microbiology for 50 years, during which time he served in a number of leadership roles such as President of the Texas and Missouri Branches. Additionally, he served as a Medical Consultant to the World Health Organization, on the Cholera Advisory Board of the National Institutes of Health, and a Consultant for the Institute of Medicine at the National Academy of Sciences.

Dr. Finkelstein’s laboratory made major contributions to the identification and characterization of Vibrio cholerae, its cell-cell adhesion and the resulting immune response. He also holds a patent for a live candidate cholera vaccine. His laboratory provided samples of the pure toxin and reagents to more than 200 other researchers working to advance cholera research and treatment. In his acceptance speech for the Robert Koch Award, Finkelstein said that “the satisfactions of meeting and contributing to the solutions of challenging research problems, which expand the horizons of our understanding of nature and which may in some way or time contribute to human welfare, are rewarding.”

Dr. Finkelstein’s brother, Lawrence S. Finkelstein, predeceased him. He is survived by four children: Sheri Schoenwald (California), Mark Finkelstein (Texas) and Laurie Charsinsky (Australia) by his first wife, Helen; and Sarina Finkelstein-Leventi (New York) by his second wife, Mary; nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, one niece Susan Finkelstein, as well as a legacy of former graduate and postdoctoral students.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Society for Microbiology in care of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203.

Ronald Paul Steen, 83, died of cancer on 6/11/2023 at his home in Columbia Missouri. Per his request, there will be no services.

Ron was born in Lancaster, Missouri to Warren Paul Steen and Doris Mildred Pickens.

Ron was a proud LPN working at the University of Missouri Hospital in the 70s, mostly in the NICU, and he was honored to assist with helicopter transport of critically ill infants. Though he changed careers, he maintained his nursing license for 50 years, and worked tirelessly to recruit the next generation of nurses. Ron worked at 3M for over 20 years before his retirement.

Ron loved dogs and traveled with family to show several toy breeds; he eventually became an AKC judge. Ron embraced multiple cultures and was welcoming to all who crossed his path. He encouraged independence and personal growth. He kept his mind sharp following current events, and he enjoyed a good political discussion. He played piano by ear, loved dancing, and made excellent biscuits.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents and his 4 younger sisters, Kay, Sandi, Carla and Penny. He is survived by his son, Rajesh Patel (Sushma), and daughters Marla Perryman (Jason) and Margaret Watson; grandchildren Monica Fulkerson, Danielle White, Kayla Dyer, Krysten Wuerfele, Montana Watson, Ronak Patel and Kajol Patel, as well as nieces, nephews, and 3 great grandchildren.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing Scholarship Fund.

Posted online on June 12, 2023

Robert Rowe Hurst, Ph.D., 85, of Columbia passed away on Sunday June 11, 2023, at the Lenoir Woods Assisted Living Center.

A visitation (10 am-11 am) and a Celebration of Life (11 am) will be held at the Memorial Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday June 15, 2023. Bob loved sharing his homemade ice cream skills with all, so Bob and his family invite all Columbia friends and the Lenoir Community to an Ice Cream Social in his honor at the Lenoir Community Center from 2pm – 3pm, also on Thursday June 15th.

Bob is survived by his children: Debra Allyn Hurst of Columbia, MO; William Rowe Hurst (Honey) of Jonesboro, AR; and David Robert Hurst (Keith Meritz) of New York City, NY, and his stepchildren Greg Heifner (Debbie) of Columbia, MO and Shelley Heifner Lee (Mark) of Independence, MO. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Kathrine Kay Hurst, Benton, AR; Adam Rowe Hurst (Mallory) of Jonesboro, AR; Sarah Allyn Hurst Stuart (Zach) of Benton, AR; Lauren Lee Jennings (Adam) of Lee’s Summit, MO; Rebecca Lee Roberts (Isaac) of Independence, MO and Johnathan Heifner of Columbia, MO. He is also survived by great-grandchildren: Margaret Kay, Eleanor Rowe, Henry Hayes and Janeanne Hurst of Jonesboro, AR; William Herb and Charlotte Alynn Stuart of Benton, AR.; Jack Wilder and James Beaumont Jennings of Lee’s Summit, MO., and Josephine Scout Roberts of Independence, MO. Lastly, Bob is survived by his dear friend, Dixie Spivey Brown of Clermont, FL, who was a sister to him his entire life.

Bob was preceded in death by his first wife, Kay Simons Hurst in 1974, and his second wife, Peggy Heifner Hurst in 2015. An inurnment alongside both Kay and Peggy will be private for the family at a later date.

Bob was born August 17, 1937, to Bernice (Rowe) and Wayne Hurst in Washington, Iowa. He grew up an only child in Keota County on his family’s farm with his mother and grandparents. After his grandfather passed, his mother and grandmother moved to North English, Iowa, where Bernice taught high school English and where Bob was a scholar and a multi-sport athlete. Graduating in 1955, he attended Grinnell College where he played in a dance band with Herbie Hancock. It was also at Grinnell where he met his wife Kay Joann Simons in choir, and they were married in 1958. They moved to State College, PA, where Bob obtained his Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate in Physics in 1964 from Penn State University. They returned to the Midwest in 1964 when Bob was hired as an Associate Professor of Physics at the University of Missouri - Columbia. He taught Physics and Computer Programming for over 20 years and performed research at UMC’s Nuclear Reactor. In 1974 he began consulting at Boone County Hospital as a medical physicist. He eventually retired from Mizzou and worked full time for Boone Hospital. He worked with the Radiation Therapy, Bio Med Department and Radiology Departments as well as being instrumental in Boone Hospital’s TeleMed Program. He retired from Boone in 2008 after managing the Radiology department for many years.

Bob was an avid Mizzou Tigers fan and had basketball and football season tickets for many, many years. Bob and Peggy loved to tailgate with friends and family. Bob also served on the University of Missouri’s Intercollegiate Athletic Committee as both member and Chairman, and luckily enjoyed bowl games with the Tigers. An avid coin collector, fisherman and golfer with numerous stories to entertain all, Bob and Peggy travelled after retirement playing golf and cards with friends; they also enjoyed attending grandchildren’s sporting and music events. After Bob and Peggy made the decision to move to the Lenoir community, they made new friends and even after Peggy passed, Bob has continued to love his Bridge community and the Thursday Morning Breakfast Club. Lastly, Bob was a member of the First Presbyterian Church since moving to Columbia where he served as a Deacon and an Elder, as well as singing in the choir which brought him much joy.

There are numerous friends who also share in the family’s loss of Bob and their kindness and caring is greatly appreciated by his family. In lieu of flowers, Bob’s family requests any donations be made to Lenoir (LLS Foundation, Benevolent Fund) in care of Memorial Funeral Home. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Hurst family.

Submitted by Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 North Garth Avenue, Columbia MO 65202

William R. (Bub) Clayborne, 81, a resident of Columbia, passed away on Monday, June 12, 2023, at Boone Hospital Center.

William was born on August 10, 1941, in Stephens Store (Callaway County), Missouri. The son of Ruben and Gladys (Sallee) Clayborne.

William went to Douglass High School, where he was a star on the football field and basketball court, as well as serving as the student government president.

In 1965, William married Lula Marie Minor, his forever best friend of 58 years. He worked at the U.S. Postal Service, retiring after 35 years of carrying mail. During his free time, he could be found rooting for the Minnesota Vikings on Sundays or cheering on the beloved Boston Celtics. Upon retirement, he knew he didn't want to stop working. So he practiced his favorite motto "Be the captain of your own ship", finding him a new retirement gig at Landmark Bank in the mail room. Where he went on to work for 19 years.

William was a great father, an outstanding husband, a loyal friend, and confidant to many. He had a way of always having the right thing to say at the right time. Always giving you some kind of lesson. Of course, there was always a sports reference attached to the information.

He will be sadly missed and forever remembered by his wife, Lula Marie (Minor) Clayborne of Columbia; three daughters, Myra Clayborne Cason of Columbia, Twila Clayborne (Walls) and husband Sylvester of Columbia, and Tracy Clayborne of Charlotte, North Carolina; five grandchildren, Tarron Cason, John Cason, Irving Cason, Trasha Clayborne, and Darius Walls; ten great grandchildren; one sister, Bernice Wilkerson of Aurora, Colorado; numerous nieces and nephews.

William was preceded in death by his parents; three siblings, Anna Clayborne, Roy Clayborne, and Helen Clayborne Sheley; one grandson, Tershawn E. Kitchen

Those honored to serve as pallbearers will be Carl Chaney, Harold Chaney Jr., Darren Chaney, John Chaney, Michael Chaney, Aaron Sheley, David Sheley, and Roy Stephens. Honorary pallbearers will be Melvin Clayborne, Rodney Sheley, Dale Sheley, and Darius Walls.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel with Rev. David Ballenger officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the funeral service, beginning at 12:00 p.m. Following the service, William will be laid to rest in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Clayborne Family.

Submitted by, Howard Funeral Home, 1397 W Ashley Road, Boonville MO 65233

Peggy Sue Evans Franklin, 89, of Rocheport, died peacefully surrounded by her children Friday June 16, 2023. At Caring Hearts and Hands hospice home in Columbia.

Funeral services for Peggy will be held Wednesday June 21st with visitation10-11am at Howard Funeral Services Boonville, MO. Followed by grave site services in Walnut Grove Cemetery with AMY EVANS Hospice chaplain officiating.

Peggy was born May 10, 1934, In Franklin, MO. To Mac Leroy (Roy) and Mary Ethel Williams Evans.

Peggy grew up in New Franklin and attended New Franklin High School before marrying Joseph R. Smith Sr. and moving to the Kansas City area. There, their son Joe Jr. was born. Upon her husband’s death May 1956, Peggy moved back to New Franklin with her son. Later she met and married Clarence Lee (C.L.) Franklin on Oct. 11, 1959, in New Franklin. They then had a daughter, Tonya, and resided in New Franklin, Columbia and later on the farm in Rocheport.

Peggy was a Licensed cosmetologist for over 60 years. she had owned and operated Cathy’s Cut and Curl in Columbia over 40 years before working part time and finally retiring at the age of 84. Her work was her passion, and her employees /coworkers and customers were like family to her.

Peggy is survived by her daughter Tonya L Franklin Schnell & husband Tommy of Boonville; and a son Joseph R. Smith Jr. and wife Laura of Bowling Green, MO.; Grandsons Travis Smith of Branson and Tom Schnell and wife April of New Franklin; and a granddaughter Michelle Smith of Branson; and great granddaughters Mackenna & Emerson of New Franklin, MO; Several Nieces & nephews and numerous extended family, and friends.

Peggy enjoyed sewing and was an excellent seamstress, even designing & sewing her own wedding dress, Draperies and many costumes for family and friends. She was a real fashionista before her time, always fashionably dressed.

She had enjoyed all the special trips and travel with her husband C.L., Hawaii, Haiti to name a few; and going out dancing and getting dressed up for their date nights or special parties with friends and family.

Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family, preparing family dinners at the farm, lake weekends and of course Holidays spent with her children, grandchildren great granddaughters.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband C.L. Franklin in August 2020, parents Roy & Ethel Evans, sister & brother-in-law JoAnn and Henry Deuschle, and brother Mac Evans. Memorial, donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Caring Hearts & Hands of Columbia, MO. Online condolences may be left at: www.howardfh.com.

Posted online on June 20, 2023

Doris Jean(Wyss) Bartolacci passed away at home on June 16, 2023, at the age of 81 from COVID, after a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease. As with every other facet of her life, she endured her illness with quiet grace and dignity and remained a source of joy to all who knew her to the very end.

A resident of Columbia since 1967, Doris was born in Mexico, MO on December 1, 1941, to George and Leora (Blackburn) Wyss. She graduated from Auxvasse High School in 1959 as their class Valedictorian.

After graduation, she worked for KRCG in Jefferson City. She continued to work there until a fortuitous blind date in July 1960 with a sailor named Ed Bartolacci. They married on February 26, 1961. They moved to Florida where Ed was stationed and upon his discharge in 1962, they moved back to Auxvasse where they started their family. Doris gave birth to three sons during their time in Auxvasse.

Doris was an expert typist and opened a home-based business named Columbia Typing Service in the early 1970s. All three of her boys cherished her skills when they had to turn in term papers at school. As the boys grew older and more self-reliant, she went to work at the Boone County Prosecutor's office as a secretary in 1974. That experience led to her next job at Shelter Insurance where she worked from 1977 until her retirement in 2004.

Doris was a warm, loving, and beautiful person who was cherished by everyone who had the good fortune to have known her. For her children and grandchildren, she was a constant reminder that no matter how hard things might seem, there was love and goodness in the world. It is a rare person about whom no one can recall a single bad thing after they are gone. She was such a person. Her absence will be keenly felt by those whose lives she enriched.

She is survived by her husband Ed, and her sons: Mike (Denise) of St. Louis, MO, Kevin(Courtney) of Columbia, MO, and Mark of Columbia, MO. In addition, she had 9 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

All 9 grandchildren will serve as honorary pallbearers. Those 9 grandchildren are Channing Luden, Sean Bartolacci, Michelle Bishop, Jessica Ponder, Julia Moore, Olivia Reichert, Giovanni Bartolacci, Cameron Bartolacci, and Brian Bartolacci.

She is preceded in death by both her parents, a brother, and a sister, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

We mourn Doris's passing, but most of all, we rejoice that we were privileged to have had the time we shared with her. We invite you to join us in celebrating her amazing life on June 20, 2023, at Arnold Funeral Home in Mexico, MO. The visitation will begin at 10 AM and the service at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Central Missouri Humane Society.Online condolences may be left at www.arnoldfh.com.

Evelyn Oline Butler, age 88, of Columbia, Missouri passed away Tuesday, June 20th, 2023, at University of Missouri Healthcare Center.

Evelyn was born November 18, 1934, to Rev. John R. Guyton and Oline Alice “Kelby” Guyton.

A full reflection of Evelyn’s life will be available in the next few days.

Friends will be received Thursday, June 29, 2023, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Parker-Millard Funeral Service in Columbia, Missouri. Funeral services will be held Friday, June 30, 2023, at 11:00 am. at St. Luke United Methodist Church, 204 E. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203. Burial will take place imminently following funeral service at Columbia Cemetery in Columbia, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on June 29, 2023

June 23, 2023, Peggy Jean Bohnenkamp, 92, of Columbia, Missouri passed away peacefully with family by her side.

A funeral service will be held at 10 am on Friday, August 25, 2023 at Sacred Heart Church in Columbia, Missouri with a reception to follow.

Peggy was born August 24, 1930 in Shenandoah, Iowa. She spent her childhood there until her marriage to her husband, Robert. Together, they had 8 children and were longtime residents of Columbia, Missouri.

She was a graduate of the University of Missouri and spent subsequent years there as a freshman advisor in the Arts and Science Department. She was also involved in her church, including choir and as an organist.

Some of her other interest included piano, avid reader and playing cards.

She will always be remembered for her kind nature and warm heart. Also, for her love of all which she expressed freely and in her time of passing where she carried herself with dignity, strength and full of love for those who went before her. She will be missed dearly.

She is predeceased by her husband, Robert Bohnenkamp and sons: Michael, James, Daniel, John as well as her grandson, Adam.

Survivors include her brother, Ted Murphy and sister, Beverly Miller, four children: David (Lily), Beth Kopp (Mike), Amy Kultgen (Mike) and Paul (Carrie): twelve grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Submitted by Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N Garth Ave, Columbia MO 65202

Dale William Francis
May 14, 1944 ~ June 25, 2023 (age 79)

Dale William Francis passed away at home surrounded by family and friends on Sunday, June 25, 2023. Dale’s shift came to its end, and he has clocked out for the last time to go and rest in peace.

Dale was born in Jackson County, Missouri on May 14, 1944, a child of Clyde and Pearl (Gardner) Francis, the fourth in order with siblings Gary, Susie, Betty, Donnie and Jeff.

Dale came up the hard way in the middle of the last century, but he never let it stop him as a kid and he never complained about it as an adult. Instead, he would use stories of having to stoke the embers every morning after he shook the snow off of his blanket to heat the house or pretending to love the taste of fresh goats milk that he took from the goat and not from out of a refrigerator to make his family appreciate the comforts of their home and the modern conveniences he worked so hard to provide.

Before he was in his teens Dale was driving Missouri backroads in his father’s milk truck leading to a fondness for fast cars and tight curves, and subsequently to his auto repair career from always fixing his cars that could not handle the curves. Eventually that turned to a second speed-limit driving second career delivering for Major Brands, Inc. in Columbia Missouri, from which he retired.

After his 2 year service as a soldier in Germany, Dale was honorably discharged from the US Army in 1967 and returned to Nelson, Missouri to woo the only love of his life and on December 7, 1967, Dale made Jonetta Nadine Newell his wife and her daughter Tammy he made his daughter too, with son Dale Jr. following in 1970 and daughter Sarah surprising everyone in 1987.

Working was what Dale did and selfless is what Dale was. When not on the clock for the many garages and repair shops that utilized his special skills to divine the problem with a car’s engine just by hearing how it runs, he was gladly helping friends and family with their vehicle troubles as well. At one point it seemed Dale was the personal on-call repair man for all the parents of students at the Apostolic Christian Academy in Columbia while his children attended school there. Even in retirement Dale worked as the bus driver for the Boys and Girls Club of Columbia and most recently Dale proudly worked for the Columbia Missourian as an office jockey and delivery fixer. From his Missourian hat (when not wearing an Army hat), and a Missourian shirt under a Missourian jacket, he was a walking billboard for the paper and made great friendships with coworkers as well.

Dale was a master of all things gas powered, from the smallest weed eater to an outboard motor to the largest truck. He was also, through desire or necessity, a proficient diddler with refrigerators, heating and air conditioning and home wiring and repair, though often as not ignoring the fuse box altogether when doing so. His motto was he would only pay for repairs on things that he could not fix himself.

Laying treble-hooked chicken liver chunks in the channels of rivers and ponds all over Saline and Boone County was Dale’s favorite thing to do, lying in wait for the big cats instead of trolling in circles for kiddie fish like crappie and bluegill. A 2nd degree Black Belt in small talk, Dale would often come up missing during family vacations only to be found solving life’s problems with two or three strangers that now looked like a group of old friends.

Dale’s steady life and dependable character are tags for many of his generation. While others chased commercial success and the big opportunity that is often paid for in broken marriages and bitter relationships with no friends, Dale instead accumulated unto himself the love and respect of everyone who knew him.

A special thank you from the family goes to Jack Swartz and Tim Pohlman for the friendship they shared with Dale. Jack was one of the first people Dale met when he moved to Columbia and their relationship went from car owner and car repairman to brothers from different mothers. Theirs was not a rah-rah relationship but a quiet and steady affection that grew over the decades; Dale loved Jack.

A neighbor two houses down, over dozens of years Tim Pohlman became Dale’s co-conspirator in all things jury-rigged. Between Tim’s garage and Dale’s garage, every tool imaginable could be found. They almost played as kids trying to find things that needed fixing, or things Tim thought he could make better than they were. It can be confidently stated that between Dale and Tim, they could mend or adapt or adjust anything made by man to suit their purposes. Heat it, cut it, shrink it, bend it, twist it, shred it, screw it or blow it up, if Dale did not have the tool, Tim did. If Tim needed an extra set of hands, Dale had them ready. Tim protectively hovered over Dale and the family house throughout Dale’s extended battle with cancer, and Tim’s wife and his daughters Debbie and Sarah and Erin bathed Jonetta and Dale in love and attention. Dale loved Tim.

Dale is forever remembered at home by his wife of 55 years Jonetta, and forever in the hearts, minds and DNA of his daughter Tammy (Jim) Marsden (and grandsons Blake, Zachary {Shannon} and Caleb), his son Dale Jr. (Marquisse and grandson Griffin), and his daughter Sarah (Lindsey and grandson Alex) and great grandchildren Tresa, Sadie, Hutson, Hunter and Harper Marsden

Family will receive friends on Thursday, June 29, 2023, from 9:00 – 10:00 am at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 am with James Marsden officiating. Burial with military honors will follow the service at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville.

Because of the exceptional care and concern and respect shown to Dale during his local Honor Flight trip to Washington DC and the meaning it gave to him in relation to his years-ago service in the Army, the family requests considerations honoring Dale’s memory be sent to the Mid-Missouri Honor Flight 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.

Posted online on July 15, 2023


Joan Menge Foreman, residing at Bradford Manor, Lenoir Woods, Columbia Missouri passed away June 25, 2023.

Joan Menge Foreman was born on April 2, 1931 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, daughter of Walter O. and Elsie C. Menge. Her family moved from Ann Arbor to Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1937. She graduated from Stephens College in Columbia MO with an Associate Arts in 1952. She and Mark Foreman were married on August 30, 1952 in Fort Wayne Indiana. Joan and Mark had three sons; Paul Michael, Stephen Mark, and Walter Daniel Foreman.

Joan's family of five moved from southern Indiana to Columbia in late 1960. Joan and her family became active in the local First Presbyterian Church. She and Mark helped to start a young married couples group called "The Mariners". Over a period of thirty years, Joan and Mark designed and built three different, uniquely designed homes in Columbia. In the early 1960's Joan became interested in real estate, and had several ultimately successful real estate ventures. In the early 1980's Joan was the lead in acquiring and remodeling the Paramount Building on the southwest corner of Cherry and 9 Street. She was the creator of Joan's on Ninth, a beautiful upscale fine dining restaurant. Following that venture, Joan became the Director of Public Relations for Mark A. Foreman and Associates, located in the Executive Building at 6th St. and Broadway. She served in that role for the next 10 years.

She was an active member of Constance Circle of the Kings Daughters. Joan was an accomplished and competitive duplicate bridge player. She attained the rank of Advanced Senior Master from the American Contract Bridge League. In her last years, Joan resided at Lenoir Woods Bradford Manor and continued sharing her bridge expertise, both duplicate and party bridge, with her many Lenoir friends.

Joan is survived by her son Paul, of Columbia. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and sons Stephen Mark Foreman and Walter Daniel Foreman.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Foreman family.

Posted online on July 11, 2023

Friends and relatives of Dr. Patricia J. Luedders:

Pat died Saturday, July 1, 2023, from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. She was 82.

Pat was born in Detroit to John and Gladys Metzger just months before America’s entry into World War II. She developed a deep love for animals, although she grew up with none of her own. In high school she pursued her love of horses by becoming a trail-riding guide at Belle Isle Stables in Michigan.

Ignoring the counselors who advised her to pursue a career more befitting a female, Pat pursued a career as a veterinarian. She received a pre-veterinary bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of California – Davis. During those college years she married Virgil, a man from a small town in Kansas. In 1965 they moved to Columbia, MO. Virgil worked for the USDA as a geneticist and Pat became a staff veterinarian at Horton Animal Hospital and was one of the first practicing female veterinarians in Missouri. Pat later left Horton’s to work with Laurence Greer at CENCO Veterinary Clinic. When Dr. Greer retired, she bought his practice in partnership with doctors Jack Horton and John Williams to form Horton Animal Hospital – Northeast.

Pat and Virgil created a small farm north of Columbia. Both the house and farm teemed with animals of many sizes, reflecting Pat’s love of animals and Virgil’s rural background. There was rarely a dull (or quiet) moment. Pat and Virgil were devoted parents and lovingly raised their three children with humor, hard work and fun.

Pat and Virgil were avid quilters and made countless quilts over 5 decades of careful piecing and sewing. Many of these grace the homes of family and friends, although dozens were donated to charitable causes. Pat was also heavily involved at St. Andrews Lutheran Church where she was part of Esther Circle, Lutheran World Relief, Food Resource Bank as well as other church events and activities.

Pat cared deeply about animals, as her friends and past clients know. She also loved wild and natural places and was a strong supporter of The Nature Conservancy, among other groups.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband. Pat is survived by her brother, two sons, a daughter, and 3 grandchildren.

A celebration of life service is tentatively planned for August 26, with details to follow.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please donate to The Nature Conservancy at

The Nature Conservancy

Attn: Treasury

4245 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 100

Arlington, VA 22203 USA

Https://preserve.nature.org/page/80429/donate/1

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

Kenneth Laurence Kuebler
September 22, 1944 — July 3, 2023
Jefferson City, Missouri
Kenneth Laurence Kuebler of Jefferson City, MO, died unexpectedly on July 3, 2023, at his home at the age of 78.

Ken was born on September 22, 1944, in Jefferson City, MO, the son of the late Leo and Irene Kuebler.

He married Donna Wegman on August 27, 1966, in Jefferson City, MO, at Immaculate Conception Church.

Ken graduated from Helias High School in 1962. While in college, Ken was drafted into service and proudly served three years as an officer in the US Army. After he returned to civilian life, he attended Missouri S&T where he earned his Master’s degree in Computer Science.

After graduation, Ken accepted a position at ACF (American Car & Foundry) in St. Charles, MO, as a systems analyst. He then accepted a position at the University of Missouri-Columbia Extension for the larger university system. Ken retired in 2008 after spending 23 years at the Missouri Hospital Association where he served as Executive Vice President of HIDI (Hospital Industry Data Institute).

Throughout his life, Ken served others. Whether dragging a little league baseball field, serving on parish councils, or helping a neighbor build a deck, Ken showed up. Ken was an active member of the Cathedral of St. Joseph and the Knights of Columbus and was a proud member of the Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity.

He volunteered considerable time as a fundraiser for the Helias High School Foundation. Ken enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and had a passion for golf and working outside.

Ken is survived by his wife, Donna Kuebler, Jefferson City; two sons, Bruce (Molly) Kuebler, Wildwood, MO; and Kevin (Bonnie) Kuebler, Bloomington, IL; daughter, Michelle (Frank) Cuervo, Wheaton, IL; six grandchildren, Adam (Alexus) Kuebler, Jane (Gered) Bales, Barry Kuebler, Michael Kuebler, Clare Marie Kuebler, and Nathan Cuervo; one great-grandchild, Sadie Bales; two sisters, Pat (AJ) Heimericks and Carol (Roger) Zink; and a brother, Wayne (Sue) Kuebler.

Visitation will be held Friday, July 7, from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City with a prayer service at 3:15 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, July 8, at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Joseph with the Rev. Louis Nelen officiating.

Burial with military honors will be in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Cathedral of St. Joseph or Helias High School Foundation.

Services entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City. trimblefunerals.com

Submitted by, Nilson-Millard Cremation & Burial Center, 5611 E. St. Charles Rd.; Columbia, MO 65202

Denise Elaine Christianson, 85, was sent into her rest July 6, 2023, at her home in Columbia Missouri after battling cancer. There will be a visitation at 9:00AM at Nilson Funeral Home on St. Charles Road in Columbia MO, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 AM and finally an internment at Millersburg Baptist Cemetery.

Mrs. Christianson was born on July 18, 1939, within her home in Wellington Kansas, to her parents Harry and Dolly Miller. Denise was an accomplished artist in painting and stain glass, and she studied at KSY in Wichita Kansas where she met and eventually married William Cline Christianson with whom she would have five children. William preceded her in death in September of 1991. Though Denise held a number of small jobs she was primarily a stay at home mom, and greatly involved with her kids’ lives and the community while volunteering at schools as an advocate for education. She would be active in both the Brownie Scouts as well as the Boy Scouts along with her husband, and they were respected and well-liked by those that knew them within their community.

They are greatly treasured by their children David Christianson (Linda), Harry Christianson, Mardeana Johnson (Dan) and Carmen Harms, all residing in Columbia MO. Their eldest son, William Cline Christianson Jr, preceded her in death. She is survived by her brother Marvin Miller of her immediate family, as well as her sister-in-law Francis Christianson. She has twelve grandkids, seven great grand kids and one great, great grandchild.

Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched, from her many children and grandchildren to the children in her community who she touched within the scouts and other events. Her love for art and creativity was great, she has always been very encouraging in such things to others. Her heart was a generous one to her family and friends, her love was felt by all that knew her at various times in her life. Her happiness was contagious, no matter how difficult life would seem her joy in the little things would make things better. Her legacy of love and kindness lives on through those who knew her, be them family or those fortunate enough to call her friend. She found joy in the life given to her, and helped others to see it as well, her life was indeed a great blessing for herself and others.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nilson-Millard Cremation & Burial Center, 5611 E. St. Charles Rd.; Columbia, MO 65202. (573) 474-8443. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.

Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Janice Kovar Eimer, age 61, of Columbia, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2023 lovingly surrounded by her family and friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 13, 2023 at St. Thomas More Newman Center, 602 Turner Ave., Columbia, Missouri from 1:00pm to 3:00pm, with a memorial Mass to immediately follow.

She was born in Columbia on February 6, 1962 to Paul and Marie (Miller) Kovar. Janice attended Columbia Public Schools until she began employment in the community at the Missouri Department of Conservation, ACT and finally CMSE until she retired in 2018. Her marriage to Bill Eimer in 1999 was detailed in a front page photo and story in the Columbia Missourian. Janice and Bill were married for 14 memorable years. She was an esteemed member of the Newman Center; attending Mass each Sunday was a highlight of her week. Janice was lovingly supported and embraced as a member of Boone County Family Resources' Supported Living Program for many years even when she lived in the community. Janice had a passion for eating out with friends, attending summer camp in the Ozarks at Wonderland Camp, bowling and playing basketball for Special Olympics, riding horses at Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center, and making pottery at various art platforms in the community. Janice spent her time watching movies and listening to gospel music when she was not attending Palmer's Day program, where she enjoyed various and numerous activities with her friends. Janice proudly carried on her mother's legacy at Boone County Family Resources by awarding the Marie Kovar "One Who Made a Difference" award every year to those nominated.

She is survived by her sister Carolyn (Augustin) d’Almeida of American Canyon, California; cousin Pat Austene of Hallsville; her nieces and nephews: Emile and Marcelle d’Almeida, and Sam, Kitty and Peter Kovar; longtime friends Patti Stucki, Virginia Bzdek and Bob Heinz, as well as her loving caregivers and extended family at Boone County Family Resources. In addition to her husband and parents, Janice is preceded in death by her cat Baby Girl, who was the light of her life and lived with her for 16 years; as well as her brother James P. Kovar.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wonderland Camp at www.wonderlandcamp.org.

Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203

Bill Wickersham was born to Pauline and J.W. Wickersham in St. Joseph, MO. on January 7th, 1934. He passed over on July 14th, 2023.

He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Missouri, Columbia, where he earned a B.S, Degree in Physical Education, and completed an area of emphasis in classical vocal music.

He earned an M.S Degree from Indiana University, Bloomington, School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation. Additionally, he completed a Doctorate Degree in Education at MU with areas of concentration in Educational Psychology, Curriculum, Instruction and Administration of Health.

He completed his post-doctoral work in peace psychology under the direction of educational psychologist Dr. Theo F. Lentz, Director of the St. Louis Peach Research Lab.

Following his discharge from the US Army, he served as City Recreation Director of St. Joseph, MO. (1959). Moving forward he was a University of Missouri, Columbia staff and faculty member for eleven years., serving as Program Director of the Memorial Student Union, as Assistant Director of MU’s Community Action Training Center, and Professor of Extension Education.

He also taught for the School of Social and Community Services, the MU Honors College and was founding Director of the independent Missouri Peace Study Institute, which was the forerunner of MU’s present-day Peace Studies Program.

After being terminated from MU in 1970 for non-violent anti-war activities concerning the U.S, war against Vietnam, he served as an assistant to former U.S. Senator Joseph S. Clark of Pennsylvania, who was President of the World Federalists U.S.A. Other teaching assignments were at the Universities of Iowa and Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, and Prescott College in Arizona.

From 1981-1985, he was Executive Director of the World Federalist Association in Washington DC. In 1984 Bill accompanied a six-person contingent that met with members of the Soviet Peace Committee in Moscow, to discuss and compare ideas for mutual nuclear disarmament.

From 1985-1994, Bill served as a national training manager for the U.S. Customs Service and the U.S Office of Personnel Management in Washington DC. In the later 1990s, he returned to the University of Missouri as Adjunct Professor of Peace Studies. In 2001, Bill was awarded the Gandhi, King, Ikeda Peace Award from the Martin Luther King International Chapel at Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA.

Bill was a versatile athlete whose main sports were tennis, basketball, baseball, and race walking.

As a student at the University of Missouri, Bill earned four varsity tennis letters and captained the MU net team during the 1995 season. He also won Big Seven Number Two conference singles title in 1953.

During his lifetime, Bill played in over 200 tennis tournaments and team competitions. His most proud achievement was his victory as Gold Medalist in the Grand Master’s Division of Tennis Singles at the 1986 International Law Enforcement Olympics. He was a member of the U.S, Customs Service Team that represented the United States in those games.

Bill’s other main passion was classical, sacred vocal music. As an undergraduate student at MU, he was a member of the University Singers, The University Chorus, and the MU Madrigal Singers.

Bill is survived by: His wife, Eleanore Wickersham, daughter Beth (Wickersham) Bauman, son Andy ‘Wick’ Wickersham, and stepson Eric Schmeck. Grandchildren Jake Wickersham, Chloe Wickersham, Oscar Schmeck, Blair Ellis, Brad Bauman, and great grandson Evan Ellis.

A private family service will be held later. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mid-Missouri Peaceworks.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on July 22, 2023

Marvin E. “Bunky” Wright finished the “race marked out for him” on July 14, 2023, in Columbia, Missouri. He was 86 years old. Believer—Beloved Husband—Proud Father and Grandfather—Friend—Servant to the Law, the University of Missouri, the University of Central Missouri, and the Columbia Community—Bunky was busy on this side of eternity.

Bunky was born on September 12, 1936, in Salisbury, Missouri, to the late Marvin M. and Nedra Griswold Wright. Bunky embraced his small town upbringing and values throughout his life, in his career, and in his relationships. More importantly, Salisbury also happened to produce the love of Bunky’s life—the former Janet Carter. Bunky and Janet were married on June 29, 1958 and had recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. From this union was born two children: Randall Carter Wright of Gainesville, Florida (married to Cortney E. Wright) and Tracey A. Wright Pfeiffer of Columbia, Missouri (married to Mark D. Pfeiffer). They also have four grandchildren: Wilson B. Pfeiffer of San Antonio, Texas (married to Alixandria F. Pfeiffer), Brady W. Pfeiffer of Dallas, Texas (married to Julianna J. Pfeiffer), Brianne W. O’Sullivan of St. Louis, Missouri (married to Timothy O’Sullivan), Eleanor “Ellie” Wright of Columbia, Missouri.

Bunky received both an undergraduate degree (1958) and law degree (1964) from the University of Missouri—Columbia and, in between those matriculations, honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. Bunky graduated from Mizzou Law as the highest ranked law student in his class and was the Editor of the prestigious University of Missouri Law Review. Over the next five-plus decades, Bunky briefly practiced law in Cape Girardeau (1964-67) before answering the first call of his alma mater to serve in the General Counsel’s office as Assistant General Counsel from 1967-79. During this period of legal service to the University of Missouri, Bunky successfully argued his client’s cause at the Supreme Court of the United States of America. He then spent the next two decades in the private practice of law in Columbia with what would become the law firm of Knight, Ford, Wright, Atwill, Parshall & Baker—and during that time, Bunky served the needs of countless clients in the Columbia community—many times representing individuals without compensation when they could not afford attorney’s fees. The culmination of his legal career circled him back to the University of Missouri where he served as its General Counsel from 1998-2008. It was the honor of his career to serve his alma mater in this position.

Bunky was a leader. He served as a member and General Counsel of the Board of Trustees of Boone County Hospital from 1972-85; He served as President of the National Association of College and University Attorneys in 1981-82; He served as President of the Boone County Bar Association in 1990-91; He served as President of the Missouri Bar Association in 1997-98; He served as a Member and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Columbia Mutual Insurance Company from 1985-2007; He served as a Member and President of the University of Central Missouri Board of Governors from 2009-2023; He served as a Member and Chair of the Board of the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority from 2015-2023; He served on countless other charitable, educational, and religious boards and committees in Columbia. In every way, the emphasis on his participation with every organization he led was to “serve” others, not self.

Besides his wife, children, and grandchildren, Bunky is survived by a brother-in-law, Larry Carter of Ellsberry, Missouri (married to Kayla Carter), two nephews, Jonathan Carter of St. Charles, Missouri (married to Colleen Carter) and Michael Carter of St. Charles, Missouri (married to Kelly Carter); and numerous cousins from Missouri, Illinois, Oklahoma, and Florida.

A private family burial service will take place on July 31, 2023, at First Baptist Church in Columbia, Missouri, followed by interment at Columbia Cemetery. A celebration of life will take place at The Clinton Club at Mizzou Arena (south entrance) from 4-7pm on Monday, July 31, 2023. As Bunky was often known for his quick wit and storytelling prowess, all of his friends are invited to join the family at this celebration of life to toast, roast, and otherwise share your favorite Bunky stories…because we know there are many!

Bunky enjoyed a life well lived, full of love and service to others, and would want to support charitable organizations in lieu of flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the University of Missouri School of Law Marvin E. Wright Endowed Scholarship, the University of Central Missouri Marvin E. “Bunky” Wright Educational Scholarship Endowment, or a charitable organization of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia MO

Marvin Elsworth Benthall, 97, of Fulton passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at his home.

A private family graveside service, with Full Military Honors has taken place and his body was laid to rest next to the love of his life, Carylon.

Marvin was born on June 9, 1926 in Moark, Arkansas the son of Samuel Benthall and Bertha Wells Benthall. On December 5, 1956 he was united in marriage to Carylon Benthall who preceded him in death in 2014.

Marvin was a Hero to his country for his Service in the US Army during the European Theatre of WWII. He was assistant squad leader in Company L of the 242nd Infantry. With the Rank of Sharpshooter and his skills with an M-1 carbine, He crossed the Atlantic Ocean on the RMS Queen Mary to report for the duty of Ski Patrol and supervise 12 men in Austria and Germany.

When Marvin returned home from the War, he was a quiet, self made man. He was an Entrepreneur, a builder, a farmer and a “Jack of all Trades”. Along with his wife, they quietly helped many families in their efforts to become first time homeowners. He enjoyed spending time at Lake of the Ozarks and listening to Elvis Presley.

Marvin is survived by his son: Dan Benthall; a granddaughter: Samantha Benthall and fiancé Cannon Baldwin ; two nieces: Katie Benthall and Kelsey Benthall.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for the Benthall family.

Submitted by Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203

Marjorie Carol Comley, age 84, of Columbia, passed away on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at her home. She was born on January 17, 1939, in Boone County, the daughter of Roy and Edith (Baker) Coose.

Marjorie attended Columbia Public Schools. She married James Comley in Arkansas, and they had 4 children: Ronald, Marla, Danny, and James. She enjoyed scratchers tickets, watching television, reading the newspaper, and going to the Senior Center.

She is survived by her children: Ronald (Doretta) Comley, Danny Comley, of Columbia, James Comley of Boonville, Marla (Donnie) Merritt of Harrisburg; grandchildren: Victoria Comley, Beth Roberts, Danny Comley, Shelby Comley; great-grandchildren: Justin Comley, MaKayla Jones, Phillip Danz; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband James Comley; her parents: Roy Bradford and Edith Edline (Baker) Coose; sister Pat Wilhite, and brother Kenneth Perry.

Friends will be received from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at Parker-Millard Funeral Services with a funeral Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Columbia Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on August 01, 2023


After 97 years of faithful service, Melferd Edward (Mel) Bartel’s heart of gold gave out, and he passed peacefully from this life on July 28, 2023.

Mel was born July 24, 1926, to August Edward and Hattie Farrell Bartel in Franklin County, MO. He graduated from Union High School in 1944 and enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served as a signalman in WWII. Upon his discharge in 1946, he returned to Missouri, where he worked as a mechanic and truck driver. He secured a job with the US Postal Service in 1958, serving as a special delivery messenger until his retirement in 1977. After retirement, he occupied himself with a variety of part-time jobs and hobbies, including school bus driver, owner of Mel’s Trenching, co-owner of a sharpening business with his brother Robert, farmhand, remote control airplane pilot, rabbit hunter and lawn mower. He was sincere, kind, loyal, caring, generous, witty, straightforward and honest to a fault. He loved his family, and he would do anything for any of them. He had a lifelong love of dogs and passion for motorcycles. Above all else, he did what he wanted to do and how he wanted to do it, and he didn't really care much what anybody thought about it.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Bernita Ford Bartel; two daughters, Cyndy (Joe) Crider and Nancy Cooper; a son, Ed (Lori Stokes) Bartel; four grandchildren, Betsy (Morgan) Cassels, Ashley (Jon) Thornhill, Heather Bartel and Landon Bartel; eight great grandchildren and many cherished nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Marie Bartel; son Ron Bartel; son-in-law Gary Cooper; granddaughter Christin Cooper; nephew Robert W. Bartel and great niece Kate Kromann.

As per Mel’s ardent wishes, there will be no services. He spent his final days at Caring Hearts and Hands Hospice House of Columbia, where he was treated with kindness, compassion, and dignity. Memorials in his name are welcome at https://caringheartandhands.org or by mail at Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia, 1307 W. Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203.

Robinson-Yager Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bartel Family.

Submitted by, Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E 39th St S, Independence MO 64055

Robert "Bob" Lee Haas
April 25, 1938 — July 29, 2023

Robert Lee Haas, affectionately known as Bob, has passed away unexpectedly on July 29, 2023. He was born on April 25, 1938, in Kansas City, Missouri, to his loving parents Francis Joseph "Joe" Haas and Katherine Cook.

Bob led a remarkable life filled with many achievements and touched the hearts of many through his kind and selfless nature. After graduating from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor's of Art in Education, he embarked on a successful career as a supervisor for General Motors. Bob dedicated himself to his work and even worked night shifts until he retired early at the age of 55 in 1992.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Bob made an enduring impact in his community. He generously volunteered his time as a coach for football, baseball, basketball, and track teams for both children and grandchildren. Bob's passion for sports was evident in the way he shared his knowledge and encouraged the young athletes to develop their skills and pursue their dreams. He was also an avid golfer as well as a fan of Mizzou Athletics, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Royals, offering his unwavering support in both good and bad seasons.

In addition to his dedication to sports, Bob served his country as a military police officer in the United States Army stationed at Fort Detrick in Maryland. During his time in service, he also chauffeured commanding officers and staff at the United States Army Biological Lab. Bob's commitment to duty was recognized with the Good Conduct Medal.

Bob's strong character was well-known among those familiar with him. He exuded strength and independence in every aspect of life while having an exceptional eye for detail, enriching every conversation or task he took on.

Outside of work and service, Bob was passionate about various hobbies and interests that brought joy to both himself and those around him. Becoming an avid reader in his later years, he sought to read through his late wife’s library, developing a fondness for suspense and mystery novels. He was an active member of American Legion Post 21 where he always lent a helping hand by organizing fundraisers and contributing as a cook. His kindness extended beyond friends and family as he tirelessly worked towards supporting individuals with medical needs.

Among Bob's proudest accomplishments were his achievements in sports. During his high school and college years, he excelled in both baseball and football. Bob had the honor of participating in the 1960 Orange Bowl while playing football for the University of Missouri. Moreover, he proudly represented his university at the College World Series for baseball. Bob's remarkable talent led to him being drafted professionally by the St. Louis Cardinals for baseball and the Houston Oilers for football.

Bob's memory will forever be cherished by his surviving family and friends. He is survived by his children David Haas (Melanie) and Jennifer Murphy (David); and grandchildren, Elle Murphy, Sean Murphy, Gracie Haas, Derek Haas, Amanda Haas, and Olivia Haas. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law, Eddie Hutchison. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of fifty-three years Judy Hutchison Haas, and parents, Francis Joseph "Joe" and Katherine Cook Haas.

In this time of mourning, let us remember Bob with fondness and gratitude for the extraordinary impact he made in so many lives. His selflessness, dedication, and kind-hearted nature will serve as an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rest in peace, Robert Lee Haas. Your memory will forever live on in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations go to Wounded Warrior Project or the American Legion Tirey J. Ford Post 21 in Independence, Missouri.

Posted online on August 14, 2023

Allen Talbert Hjelmfelt, Jr., 85, of Columbia passed away peacefully on August 2, 2023. He was born on October 21, 1937, to Allen and Doris Hjelmfelt in Holdrege, Nebraska. Allen grew up with his two younger brothers, David and Mark, moving all over the country every few years due to his father's career as a mechanical engineer for the Army Corps of Engineers. Allen earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Kansas State University in 1959, a master's degree in engineering mechanics from the University of Kansas in 1961, and a doctorate in civil engineering from Northwestern University in 1965. Allen started as an Assistant Professor and was eventually promoted to Professor and Director of Graduate Studies at the University of Missouri - Columbia in the Department of Civil Engineering from 1965 to 1978. From July through December of 1976, after numerous shorter trips, he completed a sabbatical with the Universidade Federal do Para in Belém, Para, Brazil. From 1979 through 2002, Allen worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service in Columbia, Missouri as a Research Hydrology Engineer. Allen authored more than one hundred scientific papers and reports and co-authored Hydrology for Engineers and Planners, with J. J. Cassidy.

Allen enjoyed traveling, listening to jazz music, and going for walks with his wife and dogs. He was an accomplished woodworker and constructed numerous pieces of furniture. He also enjoyed collecting old books and maps, and teaching others about the Lewis and Clark Trail. Finally, he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Allen married Barbara Joan Herron on June 10, 1962, Cimarron, Kansas. They were later divorced in 1979. Allen then married Marian Mae Campbell Dolliver on July 26, 1980, who preceded him in death on February 23, 2021. Allen has four children; Allen Hjelmfelt III, Eric Hjelmfelt (Marlita Reddy-Hjelmfelt), Allison Anderson (Joseph Anderson), and Joel Hjelmfelt (deceased) and two stepchildren; Robert Dolliver and Mary Radcliffe. He also has four grandchildren Katie Radcliffe, Zachary Anderson, Jeremy Anderson, and Henry Dolliver and two great grandchildren, Xander Radcliffe and Hazel Radcliffe. He is survived by his brother, Mark Hjelmfelt, of Rapid City, South Dakota.

A visitation will be held on September 2, 2023, from 1 to 2 PM at Parker-Millard Funeral Home, 12 East Ash Street, in Columbia, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on August 07, 2023

Roxie Grant, 101, a life-long resident of Columbia, MO passed away peacefully on Friday, August 4, 2023. Visitation will be Wednesday, August 9th from 11am-12pm at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia. Funeral service will begin at 12pm followed by burial in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Roxie was born September 18, 1921 in Columbia, MO, to Sam and Maddie Hall Pollock. At the age of eight she became the foster daughter to Manliss T and Maury Watson. She attended Strawn School through eighth grade. In 1943 she met and married Elijah Grant. Roxie was a homemaker for most of her life. When her son Danny went off to school she wanted to help the family so she went to work at West Junior High School, now known as West Middle School working in the kitchen. She retired from the school district in 1986. After Elijah’s passing, she learned to use her John Deere riding mower and off she went. She wouldn’t allow anyone to mow her yard - ever! She lived with her beloved dog Maddie and there were so many activities she enjoyed such as ceramics, crocheting and quilting.

She volunteered with Columbia Parks and Recreation doing ceramics. She had a proud moment being recognized as Parks and Recreation’s volunteer of the month. One of her favorite things to do was crochet baby bear blankets for her friends and family and all her grandchildren.

She is survived by two sons Jerry (Sharon) Grant and Danny (Kim) Grant all of Columbia, eleven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and loving extended family.

She is preceded in death by her parents and foster-parents, children Kay Pipes Haymart, Gary Wayne Grant, grandson Darin Grant, great-grandson Timothy Grant, siblings Bill, Ralph, Nadine, Margaret and Ruby and her beloved husband Elijah.

For the last few years of Roxie’s life she remained very active at Mill Creek Village and adored their staff. Her family would like to thank everyone there along with the staff of Gentiva Hospice for the love and care they provided her.

Memorial contributions may be made to Fairview United Methodist Church 3200 Chapel Hill Rd, Columbia, MO 65203 or the Central Missouri Humane Society 616 Big Bear Blvd, Columbia, MO 65202

Condolences and fond memories can be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on August 29, 2023

Laura Marie Thurman passed away surrounded by her husband and daughter on August 20, 2023.

Laura grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, graduated from Lindbergh High school, and attended the University of Missouri, Columbia where she achieved a Bachelor and Master's degree in Child Family Development, and achieved a second master's degree at Stephen's College in Columbia, Mo. She taught at the University of Missouri for 15 years, worked as the administrator at Valley Hope in Boonville, and spent the remainder of her life as a therapist in Columbia.

Laura loved life, had a true heart of gold, was a selfless person, and known to be an incredible mother and grandmother who would stop at nothing to help her family. She had many friends who were touched by her loyal and vibrant nature. Laura enjoyed time on the beach in Port St. Joe, Florida, and loved taking family trips to Big Cedar in Branson.

Surviving are her husband, Donald Thurman, beloved daughter, Bethany Thurman, beloved grandchildren; Giani Parker and Genevieve Parker and a multitude of extended family members and friends who loved her. She is preceded in death by her son, Glen Thurman, both parents: Nelson and Marian Koerner of St. Louis, Mo, and her brother, James Koerner.

A Celebration of Life is being planned and will be announced at a later date. Donations are suggested to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
Posted online on September 08, 2023

Sandy Gordon, 80, of Columbia, MO passed away Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at Lenoir Woods in Columbia. No services will be held at this time.

Sandy was born October 4, 1942 in Denver, CO to Harold and Elaine Donovan Langford. In 1960, she graduated from East High School in Denver. She found a love for music at St. John’s Cathedral in Denver and decided to move to Columbia to attend the University of Missouri after high school. There she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education. She was a member of the University Singers where they performed at 1964 World’s Fair and a member of The Chi Omega Sorority. She met John Gordon while in College, and they were married on August 15, 1964 in Denver. After college she began teaching vocal music at Columbia Public Schools, only leaving to care for helping with the family farm and children. She enjoyed many forms of crafts from knitting to beading. Through her life time she remained an active member of the Episcopal Church.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 60 years, John Gordon, Sr.; daughter, Laura Gordon and son, John (Julie) Gordon, Jr., all of Columbia; four grandchildren, John (Abby) Reiss, Maddison Reiss, Megan Reiss, and Dylan Gordon; great grandchildren, Payton & Paisley Reiss; and her sister, Charlotte (Dennis) Calhoun of Palmer, Alaska, and a loving extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Episcopal Church 123 South 9th Street Columbia, MO 65201 or to the University Singers Mizzou School of Music Attn: Mizzou Choral Activities 1101 University Avenue Columbia, MO 65201

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on September 11, 2023

Marie "Sue" Gruenefeld, age 76, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on September 9, 2023. She was born on July 10, 1947 in E. St. Louis, Illinois; a daughter of Edward Kramer and Marie Sorgea. She was united in marriage to Ronald on March 3, 1973 in Caseyville, IL.

Sue graduated high school from St. Teresa Academy in E. St. Louis. Sue worked in the banking industry for many years in both St. Louis and in Columbia for more than 25 years. Later she worked at Boone Hospital in billing where she retired after 10 years.

Sue enjoyed spending her free time watching movies, crocheting, and doing embroidery. She also enjoyed plays at the Lyceum in Arrowrock, Missouri and traveling to Branson twice a year with Ronald to enjoy several shows.

Sue is survived by husband, Ronald F Gruenefeld of Columbia; a daughter, Lisa Gruenefeld of Columbia; a son, Kevin Gruenefeld of Columbia; two sisters, Katie Chernick (Tom) of Michigan, and Edna Guithues (Mike) of Illinois. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Ken Kramer, Edward Kramer and a sister, Florence Kramer.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 3:00 pm, Thursday, September 14, 2023 at St. Thomas More Newman Center.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia at https://caringheartandhands.org/donate/.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Posted online on September 20, 2023

Frank D. Bolander, of Baltimore, Maryland, passed away on Wednesday, September 20th, 2023 at the age of 85. He is survived by his daughter, Claire Bolander (Bryan Billig), his siblings, Victorine (Ted) Nickels and Beryle Jean (Norman) Williams, and his grandchildren, Jackson Billig, and Zoey Billig. He was predeceased by his wife, Ann Bolander (nee Wilson), his siblings, Garnett (Junior) Shireman, Dean (Suzy) Bolander, Cecil (Bettie) Bolander, June (Lewis) Pratt, Mona (Paul) Cunningham, Selma (Wilbur) Williams, and Alvin Bolander, and his parents, Noah and Gertie Bolander.

Frank was born and raised in a tiny farm town as one of 9 children. He joined the Navy and traveled the world, he practiced as a pastor, and then became a social worker, dedicating his life to helping children and their families. He was a true outdoorsman who loved fishing and preferred camping over any fancy hotel. He held many roles in his life but none as important as that of a loving and supportive husband, father, and grandfather. Near the end of his life, Frank shared with his loved ones that he felt his life was full and he had no regrets, something we all hope to aspire to in our lives.

Services are private. The family will receive visitors at their private residence on Saturday, September 23 from 1-4pm. Please omit flowers. Contributions in his memory may be sent to the Baltimore Humane Society, 1601 Nicodemus Road, Reisterstown, MD 21136 or the Boone County Humane Society, 5366 S Indianapolis Rd, Whitestown, IN 46075.    

 
        
     

               

     
         
  
  
   














   

















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