+

 

KEWPIES' FAMILY MEMORIAL PAGE

KEWPIE MEMORIAL PAGE

With Sympathy

Kewpie Family Deaths 2024
 "If you have lost Kewpie, family or friends, since September 1998, when this webpage began, please contact me."
Please CLICK HERE to register for Kewpie Classmates Association
Back to Homepage
Courtesy of Charley Blackmore, Kewpie Classmates Association
For any corrections or additions, please send email to:
charley@kewpie.net
or call: 573-808-5314

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"
James Brooks “Jim” Agan, father of Stephanie Wilder (Class of 1984) passed away Friday, December 27, 2024 at his home in Columbia.

Kathleen Ferguson, mother of Eric Ferguson (Class of 1998) passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2024 in Columbia.

Beverly Odum, mother of Elizabeth Odum (Class of 2004) and Emily Roper (Class of 2007) passed away  Saturday, December 14, 2024.

Gerald "Jerry" Holloway, father Joseph Holloway (Class of 2012) and Gabriel Holloway (Class of 2018) passed away on December 13, 2024 in Columbia.

Charles Gordon Gibbens, father of Kevin Gibbens (Class of 1977) and Kim Gibbens (Class of 1980)  passed away Saturday, December 7, 2024

Hattie Ann Gatewood, mother of  William Gatewood (Class of 1989), Simona Gatewood (Class of 1991),  Louis Gatewood (Class of 1994) and Sarina Gatewood (Class of 1997) passed away Friday December 6, 2024, at the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia.

Roy Arthur English, father of Sara Heath (Class of 1994) passed away at his home in Columbia, Thursday, November 28, 2024.

Jerome Michael Phelan, father of  Kathy Green (Class of 1978), Laurie Weaver (Class of 1979), Tim Phelan (Class of 1983) and Julie Hogan (Class of 1984) passed away on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at the Neighborhoods in Columbia.

James “Jim” Henry Myers, father of Juni Myers (Class of 1991) and Josh Myersof (Class of 1995) passed away Sunday, November 24, 2024.

Dr. Anthony S. Marshall, father of Tracy Marshall (Class of 1985) and John Marshall (Class of 1990)  passed away Monday, November 18, 2024, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia.

Marie M. Scruggs, mother of  Margo S. Seaman (Class of 1982) and  Kevin A. Scruggs (Class of 1993) passed away Friday, November 15 at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Columbia, Missouri.

Franklin Dale Burkett, father of Lisa Keeney (Class of 1976) and Karl Burkett (Class of 1979) passed away Monday, November 4, 2024, at Colony Pointe in Columbia.

David Eugene Hoge, father of Alex Hoge (Class of 2006) passed away Saturday, October 19, 2024.

 Charles Roy Willard, husband of  Ann Willard (Class of 1961), passed away Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

Kay Keiko Henderson, mother Tanya (Class of 1985) and Kyle (Class of 1987) Tuesday, October 15, 2024, in Columbia, Missouri.

Juliet Marie Rodeman, mother of Zach (Class of 1990), Audrey (Class of 1996) and Anne (Class of 2002) died at her home in Columbia Sunday, October 13, 2024.

Suanne (McDaniel) Comfort, wife of Charles Comfort, deceased (Class of 1955) passed away on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at St. Luke’s East Hospital in Lee’s Summit, MO.

Michael Shaun Mahan, son of Joe (Class of 1958) & Wanda Weldon Mahan (Class of 1959) passed away Thursday, October 10, 2024.

Joseph Allen Yingling, father of Matthew Yingling (Class of 1994) passed away Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital in Columbia.

Jean Margaret Sax, mother of Eric Roman Sax, deceased (Class of 1983) and Jason Sax (Class of 1988) passed away at her home in Columbia Saturday, October 5, 2024.

Donna F. Chancellor, mother of Timothy Chancellor (Class of 1986) and Tracy Anders (Class of 1988) passed away Friday, October 4, 2024.

Susan Kay Malan, mother of Kathryn “Katie” Chester (Class of 2001) and  Ryan Malan (Class of 2006) passed away on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at Boone Hospital in Columbia.

Richard Benton Mai, father of Glen Mai (Class of 1979), Brad Mai (Class of 1981) and Karen White (Class of 1985) passed away Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital.

Elizabeth Kucera, mother of Ronald Kucera (Class of 1966)  passed away Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at the Neighborhoods in Columbia.

Thomas Klaus, father of Lea Ann Cornman (Class of 1983) passed away Friday, August 30, 2024.

Charles Dewayne Truelove, father of Lauren Truelove (Class of 2005), Shelby Truelove (Class of 2009) and Meredith Truelove  (Class of 2012) passed away on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at Boone Hospital in Columbia.

Andrea Elizabeth Fischer, M.D., mother of Elizabeth Henderson (Class of 2021) and Ann-Marie Henderson (Class of 2022) passed away Tuesday, August 6, 2024.

Edward John Mullen, Jr., Ph.D, father of Kathleen Jean Chirco (Class of 1994) and Julie Ann DuBois (Class of 1997 )passed away Thursday, August 1, 2024, in St. Louis.

Beverly Joyce Massey, mother of David DeRyke (Class of 1975) Dennis DeRyke (Class of 1984) passed away Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at her home in Columbia.

Eugene "Gene" McArtor, father of Steven McArtor (Class of 1991) and Michael McArtor (Class of 1992), passed away Monday, July 29, 2024.

Jeanette Anna Klemme, mother of Bruce Klemme (Class of 1971)  Diana Hood (Class of 1977), Lynn Baney (Class of 1977) and Cheri Lau (Class of 1986)  passed away Sunday, July 28, 2024, at Boone Hospital in Columbia.

Dennis Lee Lynch, father of Rob Lynch (Class of 1985) passed away in Columbia Sunday, July 21, 2024.

Bessie Gilmore, mother of Mark Gilmore (Class of 1977) and Kevin Gilmore (Class of 1979) passed away on Thursday, July 4th, 2024 at The Bluffs Skilled Nursing Home in Columbia.

Doreen C. Frappier, mother of Aaron Frappier (Class of 2011), Matt Frappier (Class of 2013), Ryan Frappier (Class of 2013) and Allison Frappier (Class of 2015) passed away Monday, July 1, 2024 at her home in Columbia.

Betty Jo Guyton, mother of John W. Guyton (Class of 1980) and  Stephen W. Guyton and Stephon L. Guyton (Class of 1981 passed away Thursday, June 13, 2024 at her home in Columiba.

Terry Wilson Bickford, father of Craig Bickford, deceased (Class of 1982) passed away Thursday, June 13, 2024, at his home at Lenoir in Columbia.

athleen (Kathy) Angela (nee Brizich) Rabadan, mother of Michael Rabadan (Class of 1998) and Jake Rabadan (Class of 2002) passed away on June 11, 2024, at Boone Hospital in Columbia.

Rollie Gordon Burbridge, father of Greg Burbridge (Class of 1990) and Brad Burbridge (Class of 1993) passed away Saturday, June 8, 2024 at his home in Harrisburg.

Ralph S. Havener, Jr, husband of Mickey Dickerson (Class of 1962) died at his home, in Boone County, Sunday June 2, 2024.

Jerena Lee “Jerry” (Arthur) Harris, mother of Robert Jeffrey “Jeff” Harris (Class of 1983) and Julie Lee Shaw (Class of 1986) passed away Wednesday, May 29, 2024, in Columbia.

Judith “Jude” Yonke, mother of Thaddeus Yonke (Class of 1982), Matthew Yonke (Class of 1984)  and Louise Yonke (Class of 1986) passed away Monday, May 27, 2024.

Salvatore (Sam) Joseph Losapio, father of , Jennie Iverson (Class of 1995), Christi Everett (Class of 1998) and Juliette Schmidt (Class of 2003), passed away Sunday, May 26, 2024.

Norman L. Dietzel, father of Mark Dietzel (Class of 1986) Marilyn Mavrakis (Class of 1989) passed away Tuesday, May 14th in Columbia.

Nettie “Jean” Sapp, wife of Wayne Sapp (Class of 1953) passed away Friday, May 10, 2024, at Boone Hospital in Columbia.

Ronald Jack Ebert, father of  Kristen Therese Teague (Class of 1987) died on Friday, May 3, 2024, at the University of Missouri Hospital.

Donald Wayne Morris, father of Jeffrey Morris (Class of 1982) and Angela Morrisa (Class of 1984) passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024.

Dr. James N. Wells, father of Lynna Rice (Class of 1976), Robert Wells (Class of 1980), Angela Woods, (Class of 1983) and John Wells (Class of 1988) passed away Thursday, April 25, 2024.

Robert Millard Tripp, father of Sean Tripp, deceased (Class of 1989) and Ryan Tripp (Class of 1996) passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.

Nannie Lou Mallett wife of Bud Mallett (Class of 1946) passed away Saturday, April 20, 2024.

Jean Evelyn Strothmann, mother of Sharon Renken (Class of 1969), Wayne Strothmann (Class of 1972) and Glen Strothmann, deceased (Class of 1974) passed away Wednesday April 17, 2024 at Boone Hospital Center, in Columbia.

Roland “Dale” Pauley, husband of Mary Ruth Pace Pauley (Class of 1953) passed away Saturday, March 30,2024 in Columbia Missouri.

Norman Graves Benedict, son of Etta May Graves Benedict, deceased (Class of 1928) passed away Friday, March 29th, 2024 at Boone Hospital in Columbia.

Bernard Burger, father of Theresa Harvey (Class of 1970),  Marilyn Soucie (Class of 1971),  Jim Burger (Class of 1974), Carol Jackson (Class of 1977), Nancy Knight (Class of 1980) and Joyce Stepanek (Class of 1982) passed away Saturday, March 23, 2024 in Columbia.

Stephen Douglas Johnson, husband of Linda Brumfield (Class of 1965) passed away Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in Overland Park, KS.

Thomas “Tom” Michael Chapman, Jr., father of  Joan Flandreau (Class of 1974), Thomas Chapman III (Class of 1975) and Mark Chapman (Class of 1978) passed away Monday, March 18, 2024.

Denise Ann Lasley, mother of  Logan Lasley (Class of 2006) and Lindsey Weaver (Class of 2007) passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2024, in Columbia.

Jeffrey Alan Martin, father of Jordan Donovan (Class of 2004) and Donovan Martin (Class of 2023) passed away Thursday,   March 7, 2024.

Donald (Don) Francis Eggeman, father of Karen Albright (Class of 1976) and David Eggeman (Class of 1977) passed away Friday, March 1, 2024, in Columbia, Missouri.

Orvyle H. Helms, father of Vincent Dey, deceased (Class of 1969),  Kevin Dey (Class of 1971), Michael Dey (Class of 1975) and Shawn Dey (Class of 1981) passed away Friday, March 1, 2024, at his residence in Columbia.

Audrey Ann Judy, mother of Dan C. (Class of 1973), Jon (Class of 1975) and Mark (Class of 1978) and wife of Dan Judy (Hickman wrestling coach 1961-1972) passed away on February 25, 2024.

Sauth Meak, father of Van Meak (Class of 1989) passed away peacefully after a long series of illnesses on February 25, 2024. He was 80 years old.

James G. Garrison, father of Michael (Class of 1985), Trever (Class of 1990)  and Grant (Class of 1998) passed away on Friday,  February 23, 2024.

Carole Martin, mother of Michael Martin (Class of 1975) and Robert Martin, deceased (Class of 1978) passed away Friday  February 23, 2024.

Deborah Suzanne Reschly, sister of Jason Reschly (Class of 1974) and Jolene (Class of 1983) passed away Thursday,February 22, 2024.

Peggy Kemp, mother of James Sheets (Class of 1988) and Wendell Scott (Class of 2002) passed away Wednesday, February 21, 2024.

Russel Pealer Breyfogle Jr., father of Jonathan Breyfogle (1992) and Catherine Breyfogle (Class of 1996) passed away Tuesday, February 20th at his home in Columbia.

Helen Ruth (Henderson) Fitzgerald, mother of Linda Goodwin (Class of 1967) and Pamala Hancock (Class of 1970) passed away Monday, Feb. 19, 2024.

Bob Minnick, father of Debbie Wenger (Class of 1973) and  Denise Bartolacci (Class of 1979) passed away on Friday, February 16, 2024 at home in Columbia.

Janet Botner Crow, daughter of Stanley Botner (Class of 1940) passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at her home in St Louis, Missouri.

Donald Joe Schofield, father of Kara Novinger (Class of 1992), Matthew Schofield (Class of 2000) and Kristin Curle (Class of 2002)  Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at University Hospital in Columibia.

Donald B. Ruthenberg, father of Mark Ruthenberg (Class of 1986) passed away Friday, February 2, 2024.

Dolores F. Timmons, mother of Robert Timmons (Class of 1989) passed away Sunday, January 28, 2024, at her home in Beaverton, Oregon.

James Arthur Akers Jr., father of Jesica Akers (Class of 2013) and Jaynee Akers (Class of 2014) passed away Thursday, January 25, 2024.

Mary JoAnn Heichelbech, mother of  Tim Heichelbech (Class of 1981) and Teri Kidwell (Class of 1986) passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at The Villa at Blue Ridge in Columbia.

Sharyn Lee Fry, wife of Jerry Case, deceased (Class of 1967) passed away on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 in Columbia.

Richard H. Luecke, father of Brad Luecke (Class of 1973) , Greg Luecke (Class of 1975), Mark Luecke (Class of 1977), Genise Luecke (Class of 1982) and Connie Roetker (Class of 1984)  passed away Tuesday, January 16, 2024.

Paul Adron Rowoth, father of Leah Fugate (Class of 1970), Brenda Dolan (Class of 1973 ), Bryan Rowoth, deceased (Class of 1976), Andrea High (Class of 1979) and Julia Harney (Class of 1984) passed away Monday, January 15, 2024.

Kathleen Rose (Grove) Sapp, wife of Marvin Sapp (Class of 1949) passed away at her home in Columbia,  Sunday, January 14, 2024.

Cheryl Lynn Tolch Aird (Cherie), mother of Jeanne Tolch (Class of 1993) passed Sunday, January 14th, 2024 at her home in Moberly, MO.

Joan Dembowski Pottinger, mother of Hardy Pottinger (Class of 2021) died Saturday, January 13, 2024.

Doris Opal Guffey Bruce, mother of Ron Bruce (Class of 1967) died on January 12th, 2024, at the Hospice of the Valley Facility in Surprise, Arizona.

Lisa Wayland Moore, daughter of Donna Wayland (Class of 1963) passed away Thursday, Jan 11, 2024 in her hometown of Columbia, Missouri. (She was a 1983 Bruin of Rock Bridge High School)

Susan Jane Barbee Gima, mother of Niya Ferrante-Gima (Class of 1989), Lewis Gima (Class of 1991)  and Mariko LeBaron (Class of 1992) passed away in Phoenix, Arizona Monday, January 8th, 2024.

Jack Curtis, M.D., father of Michael Moran (Class of 1982),  Peter Kays (Class of 1982), Kim Kays Motz (Class of 1984) and Katherine Kays Nicolas (Class of 1985) passed away  Sunday, January 7, 2024.

Lucia Rivera Rombach, mother of  Lisa Rombach-Cordoza (Class of 1982 ), and Marlaina Rombach-Miller (Class of 1984)passed away in Columbia, Missouri on January 6, 2024.

 Victoria Umebe Anaemena, mother of Grace I. Nawoke (Class of 1991)  passed away Thursday, January 4, 2024.

Barbara A. Nistendirk, mother of Jayne Chase (Class of 1968) passed away Thursday, January 4th at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Columbia.




























Posted online on January 06, 2024

Barbara A. Nistendirk

5/14/1931 – 1/4/2023


 Barbara A. Nistendirk, 92, of Columbia, passed away Thursday, January 4th at Cedarhurst Senior Living. Visitation will be 10-11am, Friday, January 12th at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO. Funeral service will begin at 11am, followed by burial in Columbia Cemetery 30 East Broadway, Columbia, MO.

Barbara was born May 14th, 1931 in Norfolk, VA to James H. and Dezzie Atwood Turner. In 1953 she married Eugene C. Nistendirk in Norfolk, VA where they had met while he was serving in the US Navy and she was working as a secretary on the naval base. Shortly after their marriage, they moved to Columbia where they have resided since. She began working for the local telephone company as an operator then took a job in pathology at the University of Missouri. She later found a career of 40 years as a professional secretary at the Columbia Orthopedic Group. She had a love of the water, having grown up in Norfolk and visiting family in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Barbara was also a talented cellist, organist, pianist and accordion player; being part of a 4 – piece band playing in the Navy YMCA and Norfolk Eagle’s Lodge.

She is survived by her daughter, Jayne L. Chase of Leawood, KS; grandsons, Matthew (Liz) Chase of Olathe, KS and Alex (Kate) Chase of Kansas City, MO; three great-grandchildren, Stephen, Luna and Oliver; loving family, close friends and her beloved dog, Buffy. She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Nistendirk and her parents.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society or the Central Missouri Humane Society 616 Big Bear Blvd, Columbia, MO.

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

Posted online on January 12, 2024

Victoria Umebe Anaemena, age 69, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on January 4, 2024.

Visitation will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Columbia on Saturday, January 20 from 10 AM to 11 AM. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow.

Victoria was born in Onitsha, Nigeria on October 12, 1954. She held a Master’s in Education from the University of Missouri and had been employed as a cashier at Wal-Mart. She enjoyed spending time participating in church activities.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Emmanuel I. Anaemena. Survivors include a daughter, Grace I. Nawoke; a son, Festus O. Anaemena; a granddaughter, Amanda C. Griffin; four brothers: Dr. Paul N. Ezeji, Vincent C. Ezeji, Patrick O. Ezeji, Edward I. Ezeji, as well as other extended family members and friends.

Arrangements are under the care of Memorial Funeral Home/Columbia.

 Posted online on January 12, 2024

Lucia Rivera Rombach

12/13/1938 – 1/6/2024

Lucia Rivera Rombach, age 85, passed away in Columbia, Missouri on January 6, 2024, during her favorite holiday, Dia de Reyes (Three Kings Day), following a sudden decline in her health. Born on December 12, 1938, in the picturesque mountain town of Barranquitas, located in the Cordillera Central region of Puerto Rico, Lucia led a life rich with love, dedication, and resilience.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frederick Julius Rombach, her mother, Juana Rivera, her father, Varo Colon, a sister, Evangelina Rivera, and a brother, Jose Espada, Lucia's legacy is carried forward by her loving family. She is survived by her brothers, Victor Rivera Colon and Manuel Colon, her sister, Violeta Santini, and her sister-in-law, Jane L. Rombach FSM. Her memory is also cherished in the hearts of her children - Frederick, Michael, John, Lisa Rombach-Cordoza (married to James Cordoza), and Marlaina Rombach-Miller. Lucia's life was further brightened by the joy of her 15 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Lucia's early years were marked by academic ambition and achievement. She pursued a secretarial program at the University of Puerto Rico, where her life took a serendipitous turn upon meeting her soulmate, Fred Rombach, a Missouri native. Their love story saw Lucia relocating to Columbia, Missouri in 1961, where they built a life filled with happiness and the blessings of five children.

Despite the demands of motherhood, Lucia was a paragon of perseverance and lifelong learning. She continued her education at Strawn Nursing School, eventually dedicating over 30 years of compassionate service as a Licensed Practical Nurse at the University of Missouri Hospital. Her commitment to her profession and her family serves as an enduring inspiration to all who knew her.

Lucia's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of love, commitment, and unyielding spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, resilience, and the unspoken power of dreams fulfilled.

A memorial service honoring Lucia's remarkable life will be held on Saturday, June 1 at 1:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia MO.

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

Posted online on January 12, 2024

Jack Curtis, M.D., passed away peacefully at home with family on Sunday, January 7, 2024. Dr. Curtis was born in Washington, Tennessee on March 19, 1944 to Louise and J.L. Curtis. He was raised in Johnson City, TN.

Dr. Curtis received his M.D. in 1967 from the University of Tennessee and achieved his general surgery residency at Duke University and Vanderbilt University. In between his residency, Dr. Curtis proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1970-72 in Vietnam. Prior to joining the University of Missouri in 1978, he completed cardiothoracic residency and fellowship at the Mayo Clinic.

Dr. Curtis enjoyed an esteemed career in the field of Cardiothoracic Surgery and made significant contributions at the University of Missouri and across the country. In 1989, he led the first-ever heart transplant at MU Health Care and in the mid-Missouri area. Over his 25-plus year tenure at MU, Dr. Curtis spearheaded a robust cardiac surgery and transplant program, performing 111 cardiac transplantations and was published in numerous medical journals.

In 1979, he married Joyce Curtis and they went on to have their son, Adam Curtis (Michael Moran) and together raised Joyce’s son Peter Kays (Robin Kays), and her daughters, Kim Kays Motz (Cary Motz) and Katherine Kays Nicolas (Scott Nicolas) and their children. In 2012, he married his loving wife Van Beasley Curtis who grew the family with her three daughters, Liza (Sherwin), Tanya, Kim, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren whom Jack cherished. His large family gave Jack immense joy.

Dr. Curtis was a man of great faith and service, spending the later part of his life donating his time and knowledge helping many philanthropies and missions in Africa and Guatemala. Jack and Van founded The Foundation for the Higher Good which operates medical clinics and ministries supporting hunger and housing in Guatemala. Jack and Van were highly involved in church and Community Bible Study.

A visitation for Jack will be held Monday, January 22, 2024 from 10 AM to 12 PM at Christian Fellowship Church in Columbia. Funeral service immediately at 12 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials be made in Jack Curtis’ name to Love Columbia.

Funeral Arrangements are under the care of Memorial Funeral Home/Columbia.

Posted online on January 20, 2024

Susan Jane Barbee Gima, known by her friends and family as Sue, and by her grandchildren as Grandma and Gaga, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family in Phoenix, Arizona on January 8th, 2024 at the age of 81.

Daughter of Edgar and Margaret Barbee, and younger sister to Walter Barbee, Sue grew up in Spirit Lake, Iowa. As a girl, Sue loved the outdoors and exploration, spending her days scouting the shores and waters of Spirit Lake and Lake Okoboji on her horse, Gypsy. She learned all the names of the local trees and plants, and became a crack shot. Her curiosity and love for adventure continued throughout her life.

In 1964, Sue graduated from Lindenwood College in St. Charles, Missouri with a BA in Education. She received her Master's in Counseling from University of Missouri-Columbia, and years later went back for her Master's in Business Administration from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri. Throughout her career, she was a middle school teacher, middle school counselor, high school counselor, social worker and business owner.

She had a deep desire to connect with people from all walks of life. Her fearlessness and abiding empathy touched everyone who knew her.

In 1970, Sue married Dick Chosuke Gima and together they raised their family in Vandalia and Columbia, Missouri. Despite divorcing in 1988, the two remained good friends, coming together to celebrate the holidays with their children and supporting each other until Dick's death in 2014.

Sue will be remembered for her warm, welcoming smile, her twinkling eyes, life-long deep faith, open heart, strength, adventurous spirit and steadfast love for her family.

Sue is survived by her three children; Niya Ferrante-Gima (Gina Ferrante-Gima), Lewis Gima, and Mariko LeBaron (Matthew LeBaron) and her six granddaughters; Alexandra, Emma, Katherine, Brooke, and Sloane LeBaron and Velera Ferrante-Gima.

The family would like to acknowledge the organ donor who blessed Sue with 12 more years. The donor, his or her family, and the healthcare professionals will always be in their thoughts and prayers.

A burial was held on Monday, January 15th in Columbia, Missouri and a celebration of her life will take place at The Beatitudes chapel in Phoenix, Arizona on February 24th, 2024.

Posted online on March 13, 2024

Lisa Wayland Moore (Nov 1, 1964 - Jan 11, 2024) passed away in her hometown of Columbia, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Donna, and her grandparents, Ella and Edgar. She is survived by her three children Ana (Sam) Stanley, Joseph (Rebeca) Boettcher, Louis (Molly) Sproeker, as well as three granddaughters and many friends and loved ones.

She was a remarkable woman and will be missed deeply by those that knew her.

Service at UUCC 2615 Shepard Blvd, Columbia, MO 65201 on Saturday March 16th at 1:00pm.

Doris died on January 12th, 2024, at the Hospice of the Valley Facility in Surprise, Arizona, to go home to be with the one Triune God.  Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; Revelation 21:4.

 Doris Opal Guffey Bruce was born November 3, 1926, near Vandalia in Fayette County, Illinois, to Homer Erastus Guffey and Leah Ceora (Lousignont) Guffey.  Doris was the eighth of nine children born to Homer and Leah. 

She came to know Jesus as her Lord and Savior through her Christian home and the ministry of the Baptist church in Vandalia.  Doris grew up in the Baptist Church, was active in the Baptist Student Union at Southern Illinois Normal University (now Southern Illinois University), where she met H. Byron Bruce, whom she married on December 20, 1947, in Carbondale, Illinois.  Byron became a Pastor, and Doris served with him in ministry in churches in Missouri and Arizona until Byron’s death in 1971.

Their union was blessed with the birth of 3 sons, Ronald Byron, David Alan, and Mark Douglas.  Doris attended the Southern Illinois University, and completed her Batchelor of Arts degree in Education, and master’s degree in education from Arizona State University, and enjoyed a long teaching career with the Kyrene School district.  She was loved by her students and colleagues.  During her teaching career she received a Fulbright Scholarship, and as a Fulbright Scholar she taught school in East Sussex, England, for 1 year.  There she formed lasting and cherished friendships. 

After retiring from her teaching career in 1991, Doris enjoyed traveling to visit her family, creating lovely crafts for her family and friends, and was always active in ministering to others through her church.  She was an avid reader and student of the Bible.  Even though her life at times was difficult, particularly after the death of her husband, Byron, she continued to note that “God is good, all the time.  All the time, God is good.”  She was a continual blessing and encouragement to her family, friends, and all those she encountered.  At the time of her death she was a faithful member of Grace Bible Church in Sun City, Arizona. 

Doris was preceded in death by her parents: Father, Homer Erastus Guffey, and Mother, Leah Ceora (Lousignont) Guffey; siblings: Nelson Guffey; Clara Bunyard, Darleen Pruett, Ervin Guffey, Juanita Van Winkle, Laurel Guffey, Alberta Bruce, and Dale Guffey; and her beloved husband, H. Byron Bruce.

Doris died on January 12th, 2024, at the Hospice of the Valley Facility in Surprise, Arizona, to go home to be with the one Triune God.  Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; Revelation 21:4.

Doris leaves to cherish her memory her sons: Ronald (Diane) Bruce, Lake City, CO; David (Barbara) Bruce, Silver Spring, MD; Mark (Moira) Bruce, Brookfield, WI; and former daughter-in-law, Donna Bruce, Sun City, AZ.  Grandchildren: Brittany (Robert) Brunet; Byron (Brittany) Bruce, Tamara Slade, Catherine Slade, Patrick (Blake) Bruce, Jill (Cesar) Hernandez, Lesley (Christian) Conant, David Bruce, Daniel (Ashley) Bruce, Timothy (Elizabeth) Bruce, Andrew (Beth) Bruce, and Joanna (Daniel) Buck; 20 great-grandchildren; and innumerable friends.

Among many things, Doris will be remembered for her unwavering devotion, faith in, and service to God; steadfastly standing by and supporting her Pastor husband until his death; her love and devotion to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; her hospitality and neighborliness; as a revered elementary school teacher in the Tempe, Arizona, Kyrene School District for 19 years; her love for arts and crafts and completing jigsaw puzzles (the tougher, the better); and her faithful attendance and service in the various churches in her life.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Doris may be made to Grace Bible Church, Sun City, AZ.   https://www.gbcsuncity.org


Posted online on January 16, 2024

Joan Dembowski Pottinger, age 78, died peacefully on January 13, 2024.

An adventurer, artist and educator, Joan has traveled the world, sewn exquisite quilts, mastered the art of pottery, and shared her joy of learning with everyone she met.

Some of her favorite destinations were Peru, where she climbed all over Machu Picchu, China where she stood on the Great Wall, Fiji, where she enjoyed scuba diving and learning the customs, and Italy, where she worked for a Summer on an archaeological dig at Pompeii.

A lifetime teacher, Joan earned multiple degrees and taught Anthropology at Hendrix College. But her favorite thing to do was to read, especially to children. She was also a lector at every church at which she has worshiped. She loved being a member of Newman Center, wherever she lived.

A life-long member of the Girl Scouts, Joan was a Curved Bar recipient, troop leader, service unit member and leader, product sales chairperson, and badge workshop coordinator. Service to her community was very important to her, she established multiple charitable organizations. She served on the Park Board of Rolla Missouri, from 1977 to 1980. She was an American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor most of her life, like her mother, and taught many children how to swim.

During a college writing class, Joan wrote this in a poem:

"I am from the stubborn, bull-headed Polacks and swimmers extraordinaire. From monkeyshines, say 'yes, sir' and 'no, Ma'am,' 'May I please be excused,' and 'I enjoyed my dinner.' And you can do anything you want to if you want it and work hard enough."

A few years ago, Joan self published an autobiography as a gift to her children and grandchildren, and wrote this in its dedication:

"Life is a journey, not a destination. If life is a journey, the saddest part would have been not to have enjoyed the ride! I am pieces of all the places I have been and the people I have known and loved. I've been stitched together by shared experiences, adventures, late-night conversations, moonlight, and the smells of good cooking. Thank you for being an ever present part of my 'life fabric.'"

Joan is survived by her children: Hardy (Debbie Rodman), Stacie (Linda Vandepopuliere) and Wade (Eileen Pottinger); grandchildren: Joseph, Emmett, Isaac, Liam, Delia, Gibby, and Westley; siblings, Jim, Mary Ann, Rosalie, and John; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Joe Dembowski, and sister, Carolyn.

Donations in her memory can be made to https://www.vacmo.org/fish-fund/fish-fund , and in the comments section, say Joan Pottinger. Or mail a check to Voluntary Action Center at 403A Vandiver Dr Columbia, MO 65202, and in the memo line write Joan Pottinger. This was her wish, after discussing many options.

Posted online on January 17, 2024

Cheryl Lynn Aird (Cherie) passed peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on January 14th, 2024 at the age of 79. Cherie had many passions including gardening, reading, music, cooking (it was her love language) & the beach. You would find her spending her days playing in her garden. She had an amazing eye for design and went on to receive her Certificate in Master Gardening. There were not too many summers that passed that you wouldn't find her vacationing with family & friends in Pawley's Island, SC, her most favorite place in the world. She also enjoyed her bi-yearly trips to visit close friends in England. She enjoyed taking long rides with her husband, Robert D. Aird, down to Eagles Bluffs to go bird watching every day when they were physically able.

Cherie Aird had a few careers throughout her life ranging from an Artist/Potter, to a Secretary, to a Life Insurance Agent, but her ultimate passion was to help others so she furthered her education and graduated with a Masters of Social Work from The University of Missouri. She then proceeded to work as a MSW at Rusk Rehabilitation University of Missouri. She later went on to work as a MSW for Option Care and then worked years of service as a MSW at Moberly Regional Medical Center. She ultimately retired from hospice as The Director of Hospice at Home Care of Mid-Missouri in Moberly, Missouri.

Cherie was preceded in death by her first husband, Samuel H. Tolch, as well as her late husband, Robert D. Aird. Her parents, Ruth & William Jr. Maurits, her brother, Dr. William J. Maurits III, A sister-in-law, Dr. Priscilla LeMone Koeplin, and a daughter-in-law, Angela Aird.

Cherie is survived by her daughter, Jeanne M. Tolch, a granddaughter, Alexis Tolch, another granddaughter, Grace Aird, a great-great granddaughter, Nevaeh Jarrett, and a step-son, Samuel Aird. She is also survived by a sister in law, Annette Maurits, a nephew, William Maurits IV (Melissa), and a niece, Jackie LeMone Lauterbach (Tori).

Cherie wishes to donate her body to Science at The University of Missouri.

Kathleen Rose Sapp
MARCH 18, 1929 – JANUARY 14, 2024
Obituary of Kathleen Rose Sapp
IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Kathleen Rose (Grove) Sapp, age 94, passed away at home on January 14, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024 from 1 PM to 3 PM at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. Kathleen will be laid to rest with family in Maple Hill Cemetery, Sesser, Illinois.

A native of Bible Grove, Illinois, Kathleen was born March 18, 1929, a daughter of Commodore and Mable (Slack) Grove. She was united in marriage on January 6, 1997 to Marvin E. Sapp, who survives.

Kathleen enjoyed reading, tending her flowers, listening to the St. Louis Cardinal’s games. She was a remarkable artist and she shared her talents with many of her family members and friends. She loved and cherished any time she spent with the babies in her extended family. In her years in Illinois she was co-owner of Sesser Lumberyard. In Columbia she was employed at Saffees, downtown. She took great pride in serving as a docent at the Boone County Historical Society.

Other survivors include a daughter, Kathi R. Jones; grandson, Finius (Amy) Fornear; children Patricia (Glenn) Wehmeyer, Pamela (Mac) Cook, Paula Netemeyer, Priscilla (Robert Aitkens) Stone, Portia (Jerry) O’Laughlan, Jane Harrison, John (Connie) Morris and Larry Morris; as well as two daughters-in-law, Kathy Morris (wife of the late Joel Morris) and Meridith Fornear (wife of the late Michael Fornear). Also surviving are a brother, Larry (Vicky) Grove; nieces Michelle (Scott) Malone, Kalyn Malone, Carolyn (Richard) Stubblefield; and 28 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Kathleen is preceded in death by several family and friends that she loved dearly.

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

Paul Adron Rowoth
MAY 11, 1932 – JANUARY 15, 2024
Obituary of Paul Adron Rowoth
IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Paul Adron Rowoth stepped into Heaven Monday, January 15, 2024. He was born on the family farm in rural Grundy County, Missouri on May 11, 1932. As the youngest of Joseph and Alpha’s eight children, Paul’s childhood was spent in the shadows of the Great Depression and World War II. He learned to love God, work hard, had a natural curiosity about the world around him, and was usually behind mischievous pranks played on his sisters. His first eight years of schooling took place in a one room school house not far from his home. He then attended Trenton Junior High School where he met the love of his life, Joanne Rooks. They began dating in high school when Joanne asked him to go with her to a hayride sponsored by Girl’s Athletic Association. It was meant to be just as Mickey was meant for Minnie. They graduated from Trenton High School in May of 1950 and were married that December on Christmas Eve.

Paul attended Trenton Junior College for one year and then went into partnership of a dairy farm. For 16 years he was up before sunrise, milking cows and doing chores. During this time, Joanne and he had four children: Leah, Brenda, Bryan and Andrea. He was devoted to his family and because of this devotion, made the decision to pursue higher education. Paul and Joanne moved their young family (and a child on the way, Julia) to Columbia, Missouri so Paul could attend the University of Missouri. Not long after gaining employment from the university, Paul was involved in a serious equipment accident which resulted in a half body cast for 8 months. Not deterred, he continued to hobble to class on crutches, tucking his books into his belt. God brought a caring nurse that invited Paul and his family to church. Forum Christian Church, then known as Westside Christian Church, became a place to grow in the Lord, serve, love and be loved. Over the next 55 years Paul served on the missions committee, as a youth group sponsor, adult bible teacher, deacon, and elder. He also served on the board for Christian Campus House, was active in Central Missouri Church Evangelizers, and served forty years as forwarding agent for Chinese Christian Mission.

Paul received his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree from the University of Missouri May 1969 and his Master of Science in Crop Science May 1973. He finished his time as a student just a few hours shy of his doctorate degree. He remained an eager learner for the rest of his life and taught his children to be curious about the world. He worked in the Agronomy department at MU for over 35 years.

Paul never knew a stranger. He enjoyed offering hospitality to international students, campus house kids and anyone the family brought home. He was generous and kind. Whatever job there was to do, he did it to the best of his ability.

A committed and loving husband, Paul and Joanne celebrated 73 years of marriage on Christmas Eve 2023. Together they traveled extensively across the United States, Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, and Taiwan. They raised their family to love God, embrace adventure and find wonder in the smallest of creation. He thrived outdoors, whether gardening or hiking, fresh air and good soil gave him joy. Family gatherings with Paul often included board games, dominoes or cards. He was a formidable opponent in a Chinese Checkers match and always had multiple flavors of ice cream quarts in the deep freeze to make your defeat more palatable. In his second half of life, the Lord expanded the Rowoth tribe with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was always interested in their lives, prayed for them daily, and shared whatever he had to make their lives better. This, of course, often included more ice cream or candy. He left them a legacy of faith, sacrifice, strength and love.

Paul was first of all a follower of Jesus Christ. His life was a testament to the love of God for a broken world. It was his desire to “run the race marked out” for him in a way that honored the Lord. He has indeed run well. Now he is safely home.

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” Hebrews 6:19a

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Alpha Rowoth, four sisters and three brothers and their spouses, son and daughter-in-law, Bryan and Amber Rowoth, grandson, I.B. Fugate III, and great-grandson, Dylan Fugate. He is survived by his wife, Joanne. Also survived by daughters, Leah Fugate (Florissant,MO), Randy and Brenda Dolan (Columbia, MO), Brian and Andrea High (Norfolk, NE), Mike and Julia Harney (New Berlin, IL), 17 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at Forum Christian Church, 3900 Forum Blvd., Columbia, MO 65203 Saturday, January 20, 2024, Visitation 1:30 PM; Service 2:30PM. Graveside service will be in Honey Creek Chapel Cemetery, 333 St. Hwy NN, Trenton, MO 64683 on Monday, January 22, 2024 at 12PM.

Memorial gifts may be sent to Show-Me Christian Youth Home 24302 Mahin Rd., La Monte, MO 65337 or Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch 601 N. Center Street, P.O. Box 606, Shelbina, MO 63468

Posted online on January 19, 2024

Richard H. Luecke, age 93 of Columbia Missouri passed away on January 16, 2024. He was born to the late Harry and Frances Luecke in Cincinnati Ohio on March 27, 1930.

Known to friends as Dick, he attended Roger Bacon High School in Cincinnati, Ohio then University of Cincinnati, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. He began his career at DuPont Corporation in Orange, Texas. Later he earned his PhD in Chemical Engineering at the University of Oklahoma, and then moved to St. Louis, Missouri where he worked at Monsanto Company. In 1967, Richard settled in Columbia Missouri where he was a professor at University of Missouri for 33 years.

Richard's interests were broad and deep, including science, math and engineering, family and friends, athletics, travel and outdoor recreation, reading, and politics. In 1955, he married Mary Ann Demoret in Cincinnati, and together they raised five children while camping, traveling, and becoming involved in many social causes in Columbia. After Mary Ann passed away in 2002, Richard was lucky enough to meet Edith Laydon, another kindred spirit. They married in 2006 and together they traveled the world by canoe, by plane, by train, by car, and by ship to places far and wide including China, India, Australia, Europe, Africa and South America. Richard loved Colorado, and had climbed all 53 "fourteeners" there in the company of fellow-adventurers. He was an early environmentalist, a past president of the Columbia Audubon Society, an officer of the Sierra Club, and a long-time board member of the University YMCA. Throughout his life, Richard could be found jogging, bicycling, playing handball, cave spelunking, hiking, and birdwatching. He was an avid reader and an expert cross-word puzzler. As a parent and grandparent, Richard encouraged and role-modeled a sense of humor and squeezing all the adventure you can into life.

Professionally, Richard developed a wide variety of biomedical modeling applications and broke new ground by applying Chemical Engineering methodologies to biomedical modeling applications. His research interests, starting at DuPont and Monsanto and continuing at the University of Missouri were process control, optimization and advanced mathematical and statistical applications to Chemical Engineering.

Dr. Luecke was a true mentor to his students over the years, both personally and professionally. He enjoyed involvement in their development as engineers and as engaged adults--emphasizing independent, creative thinking, instilling a healthy questioning of authority, and organizing frequent bike rides, hikes, book readings, Shakespeare films, and other activities with his students.

Richard leaves behind his wife, Edith Luecke, his children Brad (Sarah Friskey) Luecke, Greg (Jennifer Gelwick) Luecke, Mark (Haydee Boyd) Luecke, Genise Luecke and Connie (Timothy) Roetker, his grandchildren Mirelle Luecke, Conrad Luecke, Ruby Stults, Austin Luecke, Becky Roetker and Ryan Roetker, Jenna Boyd, Cory Boyd as well as Eydie's children Fredrick Laydon, and Roberta (Jeff) Pierce and grandchildren Michael Pierce and Jessica Pierce. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Ann, and his bother Thomas Luecke, and is survived by his two sisters, Joan (Frank) Fago and Diana (Cliff) Hodapp.

A private celebration of life will be held for family and close friends in the Columbia area at a later date.

Sharyn L. Fry
JANUARY 31, 1947 – JANUARY 16, 2024
Obituary of Sharyn L. Fry
IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Sharyn Lee Fry, age 76, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Visitation will be held Saturday, January 27, 2024 at10:30 AM at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West in Columbia, followed by the funeral service at 11:30 AM. Sharyn will be laid to rest in Memorial Park Cemetery next to her beloved husband Jerry Case, who preceded her in death in 2012. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories of Sharyn during the service.

Born January 31, 1947 in Cheyenne, Wyoming to Robert and Irene (Lenahan) Fry, Sharyn pursued a career as social worker and was a longtime employee of the Harry S Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital in Columbia.

Survivors include her brother, Roger (Rhonda) Fry; nephews Ryan (Erica) Fry and Regan (Ashley) Fry; along with two great nephews.

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

Posted online on January 26, 2024

Mary JoAnn Heichelbech, aged 83, passed away on January 24, 2024, at The Villa at Blue Ridge, surrounded by her family. She was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on March 2, 1940, and was the youngest of seven children born to Anthony and Mabel Brotzge. In 1962 JoAnn was united in marriage to Edward J. Heichelbech and he preceded her in death in 2000.

JoAnn graduated from Indiana Central University with a degree in education and later pursued a degree in accounting from Columbia College. She served as the Director of Financial Services at the Columbia Chamber of Commerce for 16 years before retiring in 2002. She was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. JoAnn enjoyed traveling, singing, and spending time with her family.

JoAnn is survived by her son, Tim (Sheila) Heichelbech of Peculiar, MO; her daughter, Teri (Greg) Kidwell of Columbia; her five grandchildren, Christy Kidwell of Columbia, Tyler (Kathleen) Stevens of Columbia, Matthew (Charlotte) Heichelbech of Frederick, MD, Sara Heichelbech of Peculiar, MO, and Adam (Nicole) Kidwell of Milwaukee, WI. She is also survived by three great-granddaughters.

On February 5, 2024, a Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11 A.M. at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Columbia to honor JoAnn. Prior to the service, JoAnn's family will welcome friends and family for visitation starting at 10 A.M. Following the Mass, a luncheon will be held, and at 1:30 P.M., a committal service will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri.

Funeral services are under the care of Memorial Funeral Home/Columbia.

Submitted by H T May & Sons Funeral Home, 405 Sycamore Boonville, MO 65233

James Arthur Akers Jr., 64, ascended to his heavenly home on Thursday, January 25, 2024.

James "Jimmy" or "Jim" was born in Grants Pass, Oregon June 15, 1959, to James Arthur Akers Sr. and Shirley L May Akers Heath. Both have preceded him in death.

Jimmy spent his early childhood in Simi Valley, California and Cape Girardeau, Missouri before his family relocated to Columbia, Missouri, where he remained the rest of his life. He attended Hickman High School. As a teen he worked at Nickerson Farms Restaurant. He was later employed by State Farm, Plaza Tire Service, Columbia Public Schools and Hendren Salvage.

Jimmy was an avid car enthusiast. He took great pride in his knowledge of auto mechanics and car building. That enthusiasm carried over to a hobby of model car kit building. Jimmy was a great animal lover his whole life. He is remembered to always have a faithful dog by his side.

Jimmy is survived by four daughters: Trisha Thurman of Columbia, Monica Akers (Wayne) of Ashland, Jesica Akers of Columbia and Jaynee Akers (Josh) of Harrisburg; three grandchildren Makayla Himmel, Braxton Harrison, Dominik Bratcher; one brother Terry Heath (Marty) of Ashland; one sister Jeanita Harrison (Tony) of Mexico, MO; one nephew Jeffery Heath (Lawanna) of Columbia; three nieces: Kimbra Furlong, Amberly Furlong (Sean) both of Mexico, MO and Heather Patton (John) of Ashland, MO; three half-sisters: Marilyn Akers of Arkadelphia, AR, Carolyn Akers of Alpaugh, CA, and Donna Akers-Williams of Hanford, CA; and stepfather Melvin Heath.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024, at the American Legion Hall in Ashland, Missouri from 4-6 PM.

Dolores F. Timmons, May 24, 1931 — Jan. 28, 2024
COURTESY OF THE FAMILY

Dolores F. Timmons, of Beaverton, Oregon, 92, passed away on January 28, 2024, in the comfort of her home. She was born on May 24, 1931, in Waynesville, Missouri, to Leo and LaVena Hawkins.

Dolores graduated Valedictorian of her class from Cabool High School, attending Lindenwood College, then transferring to University of Kansas, earning a B.S. in Occupational Therapy. She was instrumental in the creation of the Occupational Therapy Department at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, and was a founding member of the Mid-Missouri Mental Health Center. She also directed departments in Fort Worth and Galveston, Texas.

A talented artist, she shifted careers to become curator and archivist for the Art History and Archeology Department at the University of Missouri, and was an accomplished silversmith.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jack, of 48 years, and stepson, Alec. She is survived by her only child, Robert, stepdaughter, Cheryl, and her two loving grandchildren, Etienne and Veronique.

Posted online on February 08, 2024

Donald B. Ruthenberg, born in 1930 in Akron, Ohio passed quietly on February 2, 2024. Don was preceded in death by his wife of almost 63 years, Janet (Dee) Payne Ruthenberg. He is survived by 5 children, Donnell Sutherland (Cliff), Charlene Engleking, Janet Lee (Jeff), Brian Ruthenberg, Mark Ruthenberg (Karina), eleven grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren.

Don earned a BA degree from Baldwin Wallace College, Berea, OH; an MA in Theology from Iliff School of Theology, Denver, CO; an MA from USC, Los Angeles, CA; and an Ed.D from the University of Denver, CO. He was awarded honorary degrees from various colleges and universities in the United States and abroad in recognition of his dedication to higher education.

Don was President of Columbia College from 1984 – 1995, President of the Iowa Association of Independent Colleges from 1980 -1984, President of Southwestern College from 1972-1980, and an administrator at colleges and universities across the country. After retirement, Don helped build relationships between colleges and universities in the US and sister institutions in Asia. Don also returned to his original calling serving the United Methodist Church as an interim pastor and performed weddings at TanTara Resort.

Don was active in the Boy Scouts, honored as a Golden Eagle in 1995. He served on the national board of his fraternity, Sigma Phi Epsilon, was active in Rotary International, and was a lifelong member of the Scottish Rite Consistory of the Masons. Don also served on multiple boards, including as Chairman of the Board for Bank Star One.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 23rd at 10:30 am at Missouri United Methodist Church in Columbia. Interment will follow in the MUMC Prayer Garden.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to Columbia College for the Dee and Don Ruthenberg Scholarship or the Dr. Donald Ruthenberg Endowed Program Fund, Parkinson and Movement Disorder Alliance PWP & Care Partners Missouri Support Groups - PMD Alliance. Patsy and David Dalton,?573-356-6036. Services for Independent Living (SIL) in Columbia, MO, or the charity of your choice.

Posted online on February 08, 2024

Donald Joe Schofield

8/6/1943 – 2/6/2024

Donald Joe Schofield of Columbia, MO, went to be with his Heavenly Father on February 6, 2024, at University Hospital. He was born on August 6, 1943, in Shelbyville, MO, the son of Harold and Katie (Ridge) Schofield. He was united in marriage to Marilyn Wetzel on August 5, 1973. Don is survived by his sister, Emmalynn (Noble Lee) Hawkins of Bethel, MO, and brother, Harold Dean (Judy) Schofield of Madison, Wisconsin. Don was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Betty Killebrew; and his brother, Bob Schofield.

Don’s family moved from Shelby County to Boone County when Don was in the 8th grade. He graduated from Hallsville High School in 1961 and from the University of Missouri in 1966 with a degree in Agricultural Mechanization and Economics. Upon graduation, he was drafted into the Army and spent the next two years mainly at Ft. Belvoir in Virginia, where he was an instructor in the Heavy Equipment Division.

Don worked his way through college by helping build houses. After returning from military duty, his passion for building became his life’s work. Don especially enjoyed the creative aspect of crafting every home specific to the owner’s wishes, specializing in custom touches to make each unique. His skills in applied geometry were evident in roof and ceiling angles, skylights, decks, arches, staircases, indoor atriums, and balconies. Even with age, Don never “retired.” Instead, he continued to freely share his creativity and knowledge in helping friends with home building and repair needs.

Don shared his strong faith through serving in church leadership and in building projects that included a church and a Christian Campus House at MU. Don felt blessed by the help of many faithful volunteers and the camaraderie they shared in these missions. Helping serve meals at the annual Christian Campus House Spring Retreat gave Don wonderful memories and lifelong friends.

Don treasured family time including frequent family reunions, lunches at Culvers, attending school and sports events of grandsons, family trips, and often just sharing stories around a bonfire.

Don is survived by his wife Marilyn and their three children, Kara (Andrew) Novinger of Nixa, MO, Matthew (Dana) Schofield of Jefferson City, MO, and Kristin (Jacob) Curle of Henderson, KY, and four grandchildren, Zane Novinger, Alton Novinger, Brock Schofield, and Weston Schofield.

Services for Don will be on Monday, February 12, 2024, at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, MO. Visitation at 12:00 pm, and funeral services at 1:00 pm.

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

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

Janet Crow, 76 of St. Louis, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at her home. Private family graveside services were conducted in Memorial Park Cemetery, Columbia, Missouri where she was laid to rest in the family plot.

Janet was born on October 16, 1947 in Columbia, the daughter of Stanley B Botner and Dixie y Botner. She graduated from A & M Consolidated High School, College Station, Texas and earned her Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Missouri.

Janet was a caring person who always wanted to help those in need. This caring spirit led her into her career in social work where she worked with children, the infirm and seniors. She was employed with Barnes- Jewish Hospital, Saint. Louis for many years and later she worked with New Horizon’s P.A.C.E. also in Saint. Louis.

Janet loved animals! As a little girl she enjoyed playing with the kittens, dogs and horses at her grandparents’ farm. As an adult she was particularly close to her cat, Bosco who was her faithful companion for 22 years. Janet also enjoyed gardening. As she did with people, she would take in plants and flowers in need of extra care and nurse them back to health. Cooking was also a particular passion for Janet and she loved creating new dishes.

Janet is survived by her siblings: Linda (Ray) Noll of Columbia; Micky Botner of Oklahoma; Carol (Dave) Larsen of Columbia; one niece: Kathryn Weston; one nephew: John (Helen) Weston, Jr. and their children: Thomas and Julie. She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

Memorials may be made to the Central Missouri Humane Society, 616 Big Bear Blvd, Columbia, MO 65202.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com for Janet’s family.

Posted online on February 19, 2024

Bob Minnick, 92 of Columbia passed away on Friday, February 16, 2024 at home with family at his side. A Graveside service will be conducted at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Born, Bobby Ray Minnick, on February 14, 1932 in Lock Springs, Missouri the son of Elbert Ragan Minnick and Ercel Ilene Kidwell Minnick. He served his country in the US Army and upon returning from service was united in marriage to Wanda Seidel on April 4, 1954. They moved to Columbia so Bob could attend the University of Missouri on the GI Bill. He earned his degree in accounting and that led to a successful career at Shelter Insurance. He retired after forty years of service at Shelter.

Bob was a member of the Masonic Lodge, served on the board with the Salvation Army and was a member of the Country Club of Missouri. He was an avid fan of Mizzou sports, holding season tickets for many years. He also faithfully cheered on the St. Louis Cardinals and the Kansas City Chiefs. In his younger years he was a pitcher on fast pitch softball team and later he took up golf and this sport gave him much satisfaction and some frustration at times.

Bob is survived by his children: Debbie Wenger of Columbia; Denise (Mike) Bartolacci of St. Louis; one sister: Nancy (Jim) Pickett; his grandchildren: Chad Wenger; Justin (Danielle) Wenger; Michelle Bartolacci; Jessica (Jeff) Ponder; Julia (Luke) Moore; great grandchildren: Aiden Bishop; Faith Bishop; Shea Ponder; Elle Wenger; Millie Wenger; Layla Moore and a host of nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; three brothers: Bill; Max; Jerry; and one son-in-law: Craig Wenger.

Memorials may be made to the Food Bank of Central and Northern Missouri in care of the funeral home.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Bob’s family may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on February 23, 2024

Helen Ruth (Henderson) Fitzgerald was born in Harrison County, MO on March 4, 1931 to Nora (Cheney) and Raymond Henderson. She passed away on Feb. 19, 2024 due to an injury with complications. This was roughly 2 weeks before her 93rd birthday. A child of the Great Depression, the family moved around from northwest Missouri to Pitcher, OK during her early school age years. At age 12 she was moved in with her older sister, Dorothy, where she stayed until she graduated from High School in Bethany, MO. She married Dean Fitzgerald in 1948. They had 3 children and were married for 24 years. They moved to Columbia, MO in the mid-1950's.

Helen worked for the Columbia public schools and Stephens College as well as launching her own small business teaching ceramic classes. She was a talented crafter which she thoroughly enjoyed. After her divorce she worked at the Boone County Recorders Office where she remained until her retirement. For several years she was active in Parents Without Partners making many good friends there.

Helen lost her youngest, Bryan Jay, to a motorcycle accident in 1981 at age 19. She outlived her 3 siblings. She is survived by her daughters Linda Goodwin, and Pamala Hancock (and son-in-law Mike Hancock). She had 4 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and her nephew Jim Underwood.

If you knew Helen, you are invited to graveside services February 29 at 2:00 pm at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia, MO.

She loved her roses, especially pink ones. Instead of sending funeral flowers, consider sending pink roses to someone you care about in memory of Helen.

Services are under the care of Memorial Funeral Home, Columbia.

Posted online on March 06, 2024

Russel Pealer Breyfogle Jr. passed away on Tuesday, February 20th in his home after a battle with esophageal cancer. He lived a rich and blessed life. Russ was a light in the lives of many. He was born in Three Rivers, Michigan. He was a proud graduate of Beloit College. He was a member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. After his undergraduate degree, he was drafted into the Army. He went back to school and got an M.A. in teaching from Western Michigan. He then joined the Peace Corps and taught in Kenya. He married Susan Coltharp. She encouraged him to attend the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor where he earned a masters in social work. They had three children. The family moved to Columbia, Missouri and he worked as a social worker for the University Hospital and then the state of Missouri where he retired. He really enjoyed his retirement jobs where he was a parking lot attendant for Mizzou Athletics and the Christmas lights at Veterans United. Russ was active in his community and church. He was involved in the silver-haired legislature, Peace studies, and Veterans for Peace. He was an usher at Calvary Episcopal Church, served on the vestry, was a delegate to the assembly, and dressed as Saint Nicholas for the Christmas Bazaar. He volunteered with the Red Cross in the aftermath of 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. He traveled extensively, going to all 50 states and all the continents except for Antarctica and Australia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Anna Marie, his wife of 48 years Susan, and his nephew David. He is survived by his sister Evangeline, his brother William, children Rebecca Griffin (Reggie), Jonathan Breyfogle (Kristin), and Catherine Breyfogle, grandchildren Tashauna, Shalon, Marcus, Shannon, Annette, Susan, and Mira, his many great-grandchildren, and his beloved nieces and nephews.

Join us to celebrate his amazing life on Saturday, March 16th at 10:00am at Calvary Episcopal Church 123 S. 9th St Columbia, MO

Posted online on February 27, 2024

Well, HE finally did it. GOD has called me home on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. I never expected to see 81 years, but HE blessed me. “GOD IS GOOD.” A few more years with ya’ll would have been nice, but let’s face it, my work here is done.

I was born, June 3, 1942 on the “Hill” in Mckittrick Missouri to Leon and Cora Kemp. I had 12 brothers and sisters. Richard K, Larry K, Earl K, Alice K, Lillian K, Juanita K, Willa Mae K, Wayne K, Harry K, Ruth Ann K, Mary Jane, and Danny Jennings. Everyone except Danny has preceded me in death.

In my professional life, I was a Nurse Technician. I worked at University of Missouri Hospital for 30+ years before retiring.

My favorite thing to do was shopping! I absolutely enjoyed browsing shoe stores, antique stores, furniture stores...actually any store would do. When I wasn’t at the Mall, I enjoyed spending time with family and showing off my dance moves!

I was blessed with four children, Marie Kemp, Wendell Scott, James Sheets, and Kimberly Lopez. Daughter In-Laws Elaine Scott and Rhonda Sheets. I also leave behind a MANY nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Hugs and Kisses to you all. And always remember, “I LOVE YOU MORE!”

Services will be held on Friday, March 1, 2024 at Calvary Baptist Church, Fulton, Missouri. Visitation will be 9:30 am – 10:45 am with Funeral Services beginning at 11:00 am. Committal prayers will be at 2:00 pm at the Mausoleum in Memorial Park Cemetery, Columbia, MO.

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

Posted online on February 27, 2024

Deborah Suzanne Reschly, 70, of Columbia, MO, passed away February 22, 2024.

Debbie delighted in her role as a travel agent for Canterbury Travel, planning exciting trips for her clients and traveling around the world to gather information to make those trips more meaningful. From 1994 through 2019 Debbie headed OAK Tours with the City of Columbia for the 55+ group, loving every moment of planning and leading day trips, surprise trips, and multi-day tours. Anyone who knew Debbie knew of her love for cats.

She is survived by her mother, Shirley Reschly, brother Jason, and sister Jolene.

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

Carole Martin, age 89, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on February 23, 2024. She was born on December 26,1934 in Kokomo, Indiana; a daughter of Robert and Elizabeth O’Reair. She was married to Richard Martin on August 28, 1954.

She was an accomplished soprano singer and an avid reader who loved Charles Dickens. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Columbia, Missouri.

Carole is survived by her son, Michael Martin, two granddaughters, Lindsay Martin and Lauren Summersett, and three great granddaughters. Carole was preceded in death by her son Robert Martin, and husband Richard Martin.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Ronald McDonald House in Columbia, Missouri.

Friends will be received from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church — Columbia. Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 pm, Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church — Columbia with Reverend Marilyn Gamm officiating. A burial will follow 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 February 29, 2024

James G. Garrison of Columbia MO, passed away on February 23rd, 2024. He was the son of Virginia and Clyde Sprague, who proceeded him in death.

He is survived by his wife, Penny Garrison, and three sons Michael, Trever and Grant, and two grandchildren Kemper and Preston.

He was a Columbia Police Officer and Detective for 22 years, and Criminal Investigator for 17 years, for the State of Missouri.

A private grave side service was held February 26th, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Morning Star Church, 816 S. Court St. Bowling Green MO 63334.

Posted online on February 27, 2024

Sauth Meak passed away peacefully after a long series of illnesses on February 25, 2024. He was 80 years old.

Sauth was born in the small Cambodian village of Prey Veng, outside the capital of Phnom Penh, on November 3, 1943. He was the only child of Em and Meng Meak. Sauth attended the University of Phnom Penh and graduated with a degree in economics. Upon graduation, he joined the Ministry of Finance. In 1974, Sauth received a fellowship from The Asia Foundation to continue his studies at the University of Missouri-Columbia. He was working towards a graduate degree when the Khmer Rouge overthrew the Cambodian government.

At the time, Sauth’s wife, Kim Meak, and their three young children were still in Cambodia. With the generous help and support of his friends and mentors, Sauth was able to bring his family to the United States. Sauth and Kim made Columbia their home for 43 years and were stalwarts in the city's burgeoning and vibrant Cambodian community. Sauth’s career in Columbia began at Jensen International and then at Columbia Foods/Kraft Foods, where he worked for over 20 years.

Sauth had a love of food, travel, and gardening and weaved those passions into just about everything he did. When it came to food, while his wife Kim whipped up Cambodian dishes in the kitchen, you could often find him outside grilling meat and frying egg rolls to nourish his friends and family. He had a green thumb with a talent for nurturing plants for decades, long after anyone else would have killed them. He loved traveling with his family, whether it was a simple camping and fishing trip or more adventurous excursions to Europe and Asia. But more than anything, Sauth dearly loved his family and was proud of all that he and his family have accomplished in their adopted country. In May of 1992, Sauth became a U.S. Citizen.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kim Meak, of Kingsport, Tennessee, his daughter, Vantharane Meak, of Kingsport, Tennessee, his son, Van Meak (Liza Meak) of Redwood City, California and three granddaughters, Olivia, Erin and Carrie Meak of Redwood City, California. Sauth is preceded in death by his daughter, Vanthary Meak, and his parents, Em and Meng Meak.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 2 at 1:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West in Columbia, followed by the funeral service at 1:30 PM. Interment will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Share memories and condolences with the family online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

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

Audrey Ann Judy, 89, of Columbia, peacefully passed away on February 25, 2024. Born in Bloomington, Illinois on January 4, 1935, Audrey was one of four daughters of Ralph and Thelma (Peasley) Erdman. She met Dan C. at church and they were married on October 17, 1953. To this union were born three sons: Dan T., Jon, and Mark.

In addition to being a devoted wife and mother, Audrey was active in the Christian Science church as well as the local 4H. She was a life member of the American Iris Society and American Daylily Society and was an accredited judge for both organizations for over 25 years. She was also part of the Boone’s 25th Extension Club. Audrey was an avid gardener and enjoyed feeding the birds in her yard. She loved to read, knit, and solve word puzzles. Above all, she was a kind, thoughtful person who cherished those she loved.

Survivors include her beloved husband, Dan C.; sons Dan T. (Barbara), Jon and Mark; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and two sisters.

A celebration of life with family and friends will be scheduled for a later date.

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

Orvyle H. Helms, aged 90, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his residence Friday, March 1st, 2024. Born May 5, 1933, in Linneus, Missouri, he was raised by his mother, Maxine Stephens. Orvyle was an alumnus of Brookfield High School and the University of Missouri. During the Korean War, he served with the US Army on stateside duty. Following his military service Orvyle returned to Brookfield, where he owned and operated a pool hall several years before relocating to Columbia. On June 12, 1976, he married his beloved Janice Sue Donahue in Columbia, with whom he shared his life until her passing in May 2022, after 46 years of marriage. Orvyle was a devoted husband, father and diligent professional, dedicating nearly five decades as a Certified Public Accountant for Columbia Auto Auction. He remained in the workforce until his health necessitated retirement.

Orvyle is survived by his children: Don Wenzel, Kevin (Kathleen) Dey, Michael "Ping-Pong" Dey, Shawn (Betsy) Dey, and Dennis Dey, along with 12 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Janice Sue Helms, four sons: Vincent "Rusty" Dey, Nadaire Kim "Cool Buddy" Dey, Timothy "Daylight" Dey, and Kelly Thane Dey, a daughter, Yllonda Wenzel, and a granddaughter. Special appreciation is extended to Dennis Dey, Shawn Dey, Christina Picolet, and Sherri Dawson for their compassionate care, which enabled Orvyle to remain comfortable at home during his final months.

Visitation will be held March 23rd 2024 from 11:00am to 12:00pm at Millersburg Baptist Church, located at 1694 State Hwy WW, Fulton, MO 65251 (in Millersburg MO) followed by a memorial service. A catered luncheon will be held immediately following. Bringing your favorite dish (small side/dessert) is welcomed. If possible please text RSVPs to 573-544-8376 to help with head count. Interment at Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Cemetery to be held at a later date TBD.

To offer condolences and share cherished memories, please visit www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on March 10, 2024

Donald (Don) Francis Eggeman, 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 1, 2024, in Columbia, Missouri. Don was born and raised on a series of farms during the depression near Fort Jennings, Ohio to parents Herbert and Agnes Eggeman.

Don worked a series of jobs after high school before enlisting in the army during the Korean police action, where he became interested in psychology. After honorable discharge, Don attended The Ohio State University, thanks to the GI Bill, and he earned bachelor's and master's degrees.

He worked as a counseling psychologist his whole professional career, retiring from the University of Missouri—Columbia’s Counseling Services department and then working in private practice.

Don lived with his wife, Mary, in Columbia, Missouri since 1969. Don is survived by Mary; their 3 children, Karen Albright (husband John), David (wife Diane), Paul (wife Laura); and 2 grandchildren, Paula Albright and Leah Eggeman.

Don enjoyed reading, card playing, and dancing. He and Mary spent many evenings over many years enjoying and dancing to live music in the Boone County area. There is no service planned at this time.

Posted online on March 12, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jeffrey Alan Martin, 63, of Columbia, MO, who peacefully departed on March 7, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and cherished memories.

Jeffrey was born in St. Louis, MO, on December 23, 1960, to his loving parents, Patricia Prejean and the late James R. Martin. He spent his formative years in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he graduated from Valley High School and later attended the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) for two years.

On September 20, 2003, Jeffrey exchanged vows with the love of his life, Tammy J. Morris, and their union was blessed with love and companionship that lasted through the years.

Together with his brother, David, Jeffrey embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, owning and operating the beloved Italian Village restaurant for many years. They were dedicated to their customers and came to love their employees like family. Jeffrey was a man of diverse interests, finding immense joy in sports and travel. His vibrant personality and genuine warmth meant he never knew a stranger. Yet, amidst his varied pursuits, his family remained his greatest treasure. He adored his wife, cherished his children, Jordan and Donovan, and held dear his extended family.

Jeffrey is survived by his devoted wife, Tammy Martin; beloved children, Jordan and Donovan Martin; caring mother-in-law, LaVonne Morris; loving mother, Patricia Prejean; dear sister, Julie Deering; supportive sister-in-law, Pamela Martin; cherished nephews, Grant, Liam, and Isaac; adored niece, Paige; aunt, Susan Palan, along with extended family, and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, and his brother, David Martin.

Funeral services to honor Jeffrey's life will be held at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, MO, on March 18, 2024. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to noon, followed by a service and interment. In lieu of flowers please make donations to a charity of your choice in memory of Jeffrey.

Share fond memories and condolences online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Posted online on March 22, 2024

Denise Ann Lasley, 61, of Columbia, MO passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2024, in Columbia, from a lifelong battle with cancer.

Family & friends may gather Saturday, April 6th at 10:00 a.m. at Midway Locust Grove Church 2600 N Locust Grove Church Road Columbia, MO. Memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. and private family graveside service will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Denise was born December 14, 1962, to Carlton and Janet (Heines) Krueger of Elgin, IA. Denise was the middle daughter of three sisters. She joined Sam in marriage on March 21, 1987, in Lancaster, MO and in this union two children were born, Logan and Lindsey. They relocated their family to Columbia, MO in 1989.

Denise had a true passion and love for learning and teaching. She graduated from Valley High School in Elgin, IA in 1981 and completed her higher education at Ellsworth Community College & Northeast Missouri State, eventually earning her master’s degree online from Lindenwood University. She began her teaching career at various locations around Missouri including a Director of Head Start in Kirksville. She worked for the Columbia Schools District from as a Speech Pathologist for 24 years before retiring in 2016, however returned to work part-time/as needed until 2018.

Denise and Sam enjoyed many years of buying, selling and trading farm toys, they later had an online business: Lasley’s Farm Toys business that they ran together with their children. She loved spending time with her family, friends and grandkids. Denise enjoyed peace and quiet wherever she was. Denise had many talents including playing the flute and piano and singing hymns. She enjoyed going shopping, getting her nails and hair done, watching her kids and grandkids in sporting events, reading, listening to K-LOVE, going on vacations, and camping. She also enjoyed spending time at their cabin they shared with family.

She is survived by her son, Logan (Megan) Lasley; daughter, Lindsey (Jeff) Weaver; grandson Tucker James Lasley, and granddaughter Lilly Grace Weaver all of Columbia; mother, Janet Hoins of Iowa; sisters, Debbie (Jim) Matt of Iowa and Deanna (Roger) Arendt of Georgia; and stepbrothers, Bill (Craig) Spitzer; several nieces and nephews and loving extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Sam Lasley, father, Carlton Krueger; father-in-law Robert Lasley; stepfather’s Lavern Hoins and Svend Aasberg; sister-in-law Pauletti Lasley; brother-in-law Kevin Douglas ad well as aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Denise will be deeply missed by her family and friends; her hope - what others have learned from her, is that God is in charge. Stay humble, tell your stories, love and be kind.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Midway Locust Grove Church, Missouri Cancer Associates and the Susan G. Komen Foundation

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

Posted online on April 11, 2024

Thomas “Tom” Michael Chapman, Jr., 93, of Dallas, Texas, formerly of Columbia and St. Louis, Missouri, went to the Lord on March 18, 2024.

Tom was born on September 13, 1930, in St. Louis, Missouri, to parents Thomas Sr. and Adeline Chapman. The fourth of five children, Tom was close with his sisters Virginia “Ginny,” Aline “Faff,” Dolores “Doe,” and Helen “Dolly.” He had a deep connection to his family, community, and Irish roots. Tom grew up on The Hill where he played stickball with his buddies and cheered on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals.

Tom graduated from Christian Brothers College High School in 1948. He attended the University of Missouri and met the love of his life, Dolores “Dee” Martin, there. They went on their first date on October 22, 1950—an evening of dancing to a big band at Brewer Fieldhouse.

In April 1951, Tom joined the U.S. Army. He was accepted to the sixteenth class of Field Artillery Officer Candidate School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and graduated in June 1952. Tom served in the Korean War as a First Lieutenant and an Artillery Forward Observer. He fought in the Battle of Pork Chop Hill and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for helping extract wounded and dead soldiers from a patrol that entered a minefield. After his discharge in 1953, Tom returned to Mizzou on the G.I. Bill to finish his Bachelor of Arts in political science.

On June 5, 1954, he married Dee at St. Ann Catholic Church in Normandy, Missouri. Over the next few years, they lived in Columbia and St. Louis and welcomed their three children. Joan was born in 1955, Tom III was born in 1957, and Mark was born in 1960 on Tom and Dee’s wedding anniversary.

In 1965, Tom and Dee returned to Columbia, where they would spend the next five decades. Tom’s career spanned public relations, politics, and media. Highlights included working as the public relations executive for Sidney Salomon, Jr. & Associates. Tom was there in 1966 when Sid Jr. and his son, Sid III, established a new NHL franchise in St. Louis. Tom helped the Salomons create the name and logo for the St. Louis Blues. Tom entered politics and developed his expertise in campaign management at the local, state, and national level. He worked on the Missouri advance team for Jimmy Carter’s 1976 presidential campaign. PR and media brought him back to the University of Missouri, at the MU Extension, as the Director of Conferences and Short Courses. Tom finished his career as the station manager at KMIZ ABC 17 News. A highlight of his time there was working with a new reporter and anchor named Savannah Guthrie.

The first of Tom and Dee’s four grandchildren was born in 1989. “Papa” and “Grandma Dee” frequently made the 10-hour drive from Columbia to the Dallas area to visit and help care for their cherished grandkids.

In retirement, Tom was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 280 in Columbia and volunteered with its Honor Guard. In 2010, he returned to South Korea as part of the Veterans Revisit Korea Program and participated in the Inchon Landing Ceremony. In 2013, he joined a Central Missouri Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., to see the Korean War memorial.

Tom remained active in the Columbia community. He was a member of the Columbia Cosmopolitan Luncheon Club and helped put on the annual “Fire in the Sky” fireworks show for Independence Day. He attended Sacred Heart Catholic Church and volunteered at its holiday bazaar for many years.

In 2018, Tom and Dee moved to North Texas to be closer to Joan, Mark, and their families. They enjoyed countless family gatherings, celebrations, and holiday dinners. Tom also enjoyed becoming a member of All Saints Catholic Church.

Throughout his life, aviation fascinated Tom, whether he was flying, watching airplanes land at Addison Airport, or collecting models of his favorite planes. And he loved his hometown of St. Louis—he was a lifelong fan of the Cardinals, toasted ravioli, and gooey butter cake.

Tom is survived by his children, Joan Flandreau (Herb Flandreau), Thomas Chapman III, and Mark Chapman (Susie Chapman); grandchildren, Michelle Flandreau (Evan Bush), Melissa Flandreau (Jacob Salmon), Jack Chapman, and Nick Chapman; and great-grandson, Theodore Thomas Salmon. He is also survived by his cherished nieces, nephews, and their families. Tom is welcomed in heaven by his beloved Dee, along with his parents and sisters.

Tom will be remembered in many ways: As a loving spouse who faithfully cared for his wife as she struggled with Alzheimer's disease. As a distinguished veteran who courageously served his country. As a masterful storyteller with a steel-trap memory and a love of politics and current events. Most importantly, Tom will be remembered as a man who deeply valued his family and was forever telling you how much you meant to him.

Tom spent the past few years living his life at The Tradition-Prestonwood Assisted Living in Dallas. He made many dear friends there. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the entire staff at The Tradition for all the care Tom received. In addition, their compassion, along with that of Allstar Hospice, was of great comfort to Tom and his family in the final weeks of his life.

A memorial service with full military honors will be held for Tom at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis on May 13, 2024.

Posted online on March 29, 2024

Stephen Douglas Johnson, 81, passed away on March 20, 2024, in Overland Park, KS.

He was born on January 26, 1943, to Douglas and Mildred (Jennings) Johnson and lived in Stoutland and Richland, Missouri in his youth. He was a manager for GTE in Columbia, retiring in 2005 after 37 years.

On October 17, 1969, he married Linda Brumfield of Columbia. They had two daughters, Kristen and Carrie and settled outside Rocheport, MO. Steve married the late Lynda (Dringman) on September 21, 1996.

Steve is survived by daughters, Kristen Stalling (Mike) and Carrie Johnson (Matthew Young); stepchildren ret. Col. David Cheney II (Justin Brooks) and Elizabeth Dosher (Max); grandchildren Brett and Madeline Stalling; step-grandchildren Huxley and Harper Dosher; and many special family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Lynda.

Visitation will be held April 20th at 1:00pm, at Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Olathe, Kansas; memorial service at 2:00 pm. Service will be live streamed.

Interment will take place at Hazelwood Cemetery in Springfield, MO, alongside his parents, date to be determined.

Bernard “Bernie” Louis Burger

6/5/1927 – 3/23/2024

Bernard Burger, 96, of Columbia passed away Saturday, March 23, 2024 in Columbia. Mass of Christian burial will be 11:30am, Monday, April 1, 2024 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 903 Bernadette Drive Columbia, MO 65203 with burial and Military Honors to follow in Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia. The Rosary will be prayed at 9:30am, Monday at the Church and visitation will follow from 10-11:30am.

Bernard was born June 5, 1927 in Billings, MO to Ernest and Theresa Schatz Burger. In 1944 he graduated from Billings High School and joined the US Navy at the age of 18. He was stationed in San Diego and served until 1947. On May 20, 1950, he married Catherine Roetto at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pierce City, MO. He began a long and successful career in insurance sales with Metropolitan Life. After retiring, he started a second career in property management. He loved traveling and long drives through the countryside, MU sports and the St. Louis Cardinals, enjoyed gardening and proudly maintained his own lawn well into his 90’s. He loved his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and impressed them with his remarkable ability of easily finding four-leaf clovers. Two years ago he moved to Lenoir Senior Community where he loved making new friends, daily workouts in the gym and the social activities. While typically a soft spoken gentleman, his grin when he looked out the corner of his eye and smiled from ear to ear would light up a room.

He is survived by six children, Theresa (Gary) Harvey, Marilyn (Wayne) Soucie, Jim (Karen) Burger all of Columbia, Carol (Jeff) Jackson of Vanceboro, NC, Nancy Knight of Manchester, MO, and Joyce (David) Stepanek of Columbia; fifteen grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and a loving extended family.

He was preceded in death, after 60 years of marriage, by his beloved wife Catherine. Bernard was also preceded in death by twin daughters; Diana & Donna Burger, brothers; Albert and Floyd Burger; a sister, Leona Burger; son-in-law, Scott Knight, and his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Inter-parish School or Father Tolton High School.

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

Family submitted obituary
Norman Benedict, Aug. 08, 1937 — March 29, 2024
COURTESY OF THE FAMILY

Norman Graves Benedict, age 86, died on March 29th, 2024 in Boone Hospital’s Palliative Care from complications stemming from cancer. He was born in Columbia on August 27, 1937 at Noyes Hospital to Eugene Howard and Etta May Graves Benedict.

His entire primary and secondary education were at his beloved University Laboratory School where he was active in the theater, played basketball and developed friendships that would last a lifetime. At a very early age he was drawn to performance, both singing and acting.

Graduating in 1955 from UHigh he attended Northwestern University in Evanston, IL majoring in Radio, Television and Film. Norm worked at WNUR FM in production, direction and programing. He was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Graduating in 1959, he moved back to Columbia, worked at KFRU Radio and soon was an active at Columbia Entertainment Company. His voice was often heard on radio and television. Later in 1959 Norman married Vivian Eynatten and together they raised four children.

In 1991 Norman married his second wife, Wanda Szasz Benedict. Soon they formed Norman Robert Communications and were recognizable in Columbia when they were featured in a national television ad for Prevagen, one of their clients.

Norman was active in the Chamber of Commerce, past President of the Mid-Missouri Tourism Council, General Manager of Columbia CableVision, served as President of Columbia Metro Rotary, and was appointed to the Board of Governors of Northwestern’s WNUR at their fiftieth anniversary. He was frequently seen as emcee at civic events like the Memorial Day Salute To Veterans. In 2011 he wrote a memoir of growing up in a college town in the years around WWII titled “Thumbs up, V for Victory, I Love You” available through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Norman is survived by his wife Szasz of Columbia and stepdaughter Stacey Maier (John) of Newport, Oregon, his former wife Vivian Benedict of Columbia and their four children, Nancy Benedict Marcia (David) of Columbia, Amy Benedict (Mark Brodie) of Los Angeles, CA, Matt Benedict (Heidi) of Minneapolis, MN and Rob Benedict (Ruth Connell) of Los Angeles, CA, five grandchildren, Jackson and Rylan Brodie and Calvin, Audrey and Margaret Benedict, all of Los Angeles, CA. Also surviving are his brother Jerry Benedict (Kay) and his nieces Jill and Erin Benedict, all of Columbia.

Services will be private. Memorials may be made in Norman’s name to Columbia Metro Rotary, Columbia Entertainment Company or the charitable organization of your choice.

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

Roland “Dale” Pauley passed away Saturday, March 30,2024 in Columbia Missouri at the age of 92.

A celebration of life by family and friends will be held on Sunday, April 28,2024 from 1:00 pm-5:00 pm at 5701 E Claysville Rd, Hartsburg Missouri 65039.

Dale was born September 14, 1931, in Boone County Missouri, the oldest of nine children to Altie “Jack” Pauley and Oneita Henry Pauley (Sapp).

He attended Deer Park School and graduated from Southern Boone High School in Ashland, Missouri. Dale served in the Army during the Korean war as an ambulance driver on the front lines. Upon returning from Korea, he married Mary Ruth Pace on January 17, 1954, then went to barber school and worked at Fenton’s Barber shop in Columbia, giving many boys in Boone County their first haircut. Dale & Mary Ruth moved to Tucson, Arizona where he owned a barber shop “The Shearing Shed” before eventually moving back to Columbia. Dale was a nationally known fiddler and traveled the Old Time Fiddle contest circuit winning many contests including the North American Old Time Fiddle Championship. After retiring as a barber he played in a country band, enjoyed hosting jam sessions, monthly poker games, fishing, woodworking, was member of the Columbia VFW, and was always on the hunt for a good bargain at garage sales.

Dale is survived by his wife of 70 years Mary Ruth, sons Gary (Mary Dee) Pauley of Rocky Mount, Scott (Sara)Pauley of Hartsburg, Bruce (Lynda) Pauley of Ashland and daughter Lisa (Mike) Gordon of Columbia. 6 grandchildren, Jennifer (Kevin) Roderique of Columbia, Shana (Steven) Washabaugh of Columbia, Amanda (Shannon) Winkler of Columbia, Andrew (Sadie) Gordon of Mexico, Cord (Sarah) Pauley of Ashland, and Kara Pauley of Columbia, 10 great Grandchildren, Adia, Evie, Holly, Joey, Rosie, Makinzie, Brayden, Vanessa, Jace & Barrett, brothers Terry, Larry Joe & Vernon Pauley of Columbia, and sister Marth Rissler of Lake Forest, California.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Alberta Anderson, Peggy Jo Rickard, Norma Cunningham, and brother Jerry Pauley.

Please join his wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, family, and friends as we celebrate – A Life Well Lived!

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.millardfamilychapels.com.

Posted online on April 22, 2024

Jean Evelyn Strothmann, age 96, of Columbia, Missouri passed away Wednesday April 17, 2024 at Boone Hospital Center after a brief illness. Jean was born December 17, 1927, the oldest child of Lawrence Woodford Doran and Mildred L. (Melton) Doran.

Jean graduated from Nevada (MO) High School in 1945 and continued her education at the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri where she received her bachelor’s degree in home economics in 1950.

While at Mizzou, Jean met a handsome young Army veteran, Harvey Strothmann, while attending The Chapel Columbia United Church of Christ, and they were married on June 11, 1950, in Columbia, Missouri. From this union they had three children: Sharon, Wayne and Glen.

Jean was a member of the Columbia United Church of Christ for many years.

Jean worked at the Boy Scouts of America Great Rivers Council and later worked at the University of Missouri in the Dairy Department and at the Physical Plant.

Jean and Harvey loved to travel with her sister Betty and husband Bob in their RV, and later in life Jean traveled with her two sisters, including a memorable trip to Ireland. She also enjoyed quilting with a group at church, but most of all Jean’s favorite thing to do in her free time was spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Jean is survived by her children Sharon Renken (Jim) of Cumming, GA, Wayne Strothmann (Denise) of Sunrise Beach, MO; daughter-in-law Snezana Strothmann of Columbia; eight (8) grandchildren, Bradley Renken, Bryan Renken, Blake Renken, Brett Renken, Cara Licausi, Kristin O’Farrell, Scott Strothmann, and Noah Strothmann; twelve (12) great grandchildren, Rylie Renken, Harvey Renken, Ellie Renken, Austin Renken, Emma Renken, Audrey Renken, Jude Licausi, Cecilia Licausi, Gemma Licausi, Hayden O’Farrell, Owen O’Farrell and Colin O'Farrell; her siblings Larry Doran, Betty Hopkins, and Barbara McConnell, as well as many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Harvey, her son Glen, and her parents Lawrence and Mildred.

A memorial service will be held in mid-May for Jean.

In lieu of flowers, Jean’s family ask that memorial donations in her honor be made to:

The Food Bank of Central & Northeast Missouri, 2101 Vandiver Dr. Columbia, MO 65202, https://sharefoodbringhope.org/

Or

The Columbia United Church of Christ, 3201 I-70 Drive NW Columbia, MO 65202, https://www.columbiaucc.com/

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.millardfamilychapels.com.

Posted online on April 22, 2024

Nannie Lou Mallett went to be with her Heavenly Father on Saturday, April 20, 2024. Nannie Lou was born January 14, 1930, in Callaway County, Missouri to George and Floy May Bright. Nannie Lou married Jess (Bud) Mallett on February 6, 1952. They had been married 51 years before he passed on July 5, 2003.

Nannie Lou is survived by her son, Michael Eugene Mallett (Debbie) of Lee’s Summit, MO; her daughter, Michelle Mallett Allen (Jeff) of Columbia, MO. She is also survived by four (4) grandchildren: Mark Andrew Mallett (Heather), Katelyn Michelle Wilfong (Josh), Ashley Nicole Sweeton (Robby), and Michael Lee Buxton; seven (7) great-grandchildren: Deacon Wilfong, Riley Mallett, Kinsley Wilfong, Karleigh Wilfong, Maya Mallett, Logan Sweeton, and Brooklyn Sweeton; and several nieces and nephews.

Nannie Lou is preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother, Edward K. Bright, sister-in-law, Shirley Ann Bright, sister Betty Rose Musbach, brother-in-law, Gene Edward Musbach, and infant daughter Debra Mallett.

Services will be held Monday, April 29, 2024, at Parker-Millard Funeral Home in Columbia, MO. Visitation will be from 1:00-2:00 pm with the service beginning at 2:00 p.m. and burial will follow at Millersburg, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Robert Millard Tripp
MARCH 16, 1942 – APRIL 24, 2024
Obituary of Robert Millard Tripp
IN THE CARE OF, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Robert Millard Tripp, age 82, from Columbia, Missouri, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. Born on March 16, 1942, to Millard and Lucille (Bone) Tripp, Robert was united in marriage to Patricia McCane. His professional career was in truck driving before retirement.

Robert is survived by his wife, Patricia Tripp and son, Ryan Tripp. He was preceded in death by his son, Sean Tripp.

A graveside service honoring Robert's life is scheduled for Friday, April 26, 2024, at 1:00 PM. The service will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia, located at 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, Missouri 65202.

Posted online on April 29, 2024

Dr. James N. Wells (90) went home to the Lord on April 25, 2024, He was born on October 12, 1933, to James N. and Laura Olive (“Miss Ollie”) Wells.

James was raised by Miss Ollie, a single parent, in Black Rock, Arkansas. By her example, James gained a strong work ethic, which he passed onto his family. After graduating high school, in 1955, he obtained an undergraduate degree in physical education from Arkansas State University.

On July 7, 1956, James married the love of his life, Marilea Ashlock. Together, they shared 64 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on September 11, 2020. During those loving years, they raised four children, Lynna (Tom) Rice, Robert (Lisa) Wells, Angela Woods, John (Jennie) Wells. They were proud of their 10 grandchildren: Kelli Rice, Ashton Wells, Chelsea Wells, Jake (Paige) Rice, Wells Woods, Maggie Rice, Andrew Woods, Ali (Austin) Hazelwood, Jillian Wells and Connor Wells. Tom and Kelli Rice preceded him in death. James was blessed to meet two of his great grandchildren, Fletcher and Kellen Rice and knew that Bowen Hazelwood is expected in October 2024.

Following a two-year stint as First Lieutenant in the US Army, James began his pursuit of higher education, graduating with a master’s degree from Arkansas State University in 1959, and a specialist certification in 1969 from the University of Missouri. It was a special day when Miss Ollie, along with his 3 siblings, Marguerite Lavender, John D. Wells and Vivian Smith, watched him receive his Doctor of Education from the University of Missouri in 1979. They also preceded him in death.

In 1965, Columbia Public Schools hired James to open a new elementary school on what was then the western edge of Columbia. The family moved to begin his 33-year career as Principal at Fairview Elementary School. James had the honor of leading the education of thousands of children and mentored hundreds of educators throughout his tenure. He received many awards and recognitions, but many Columbians may remember when President Ronald Reagan visited Columbia to recognize Fairview as one of the “Most Outstanding Schools in the Nation” and James’ nomination for recognition by the U.S. Department of Education. Years after retirement, James could remember many students, their families, and the details of their education. He was invested in their lives.

After retiring from Columbia Public Schools, James went to work for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education as an accreditation specialist for 9 years, helping school districts around the state of Missouri.

For 55 years, James was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church, now Calvary Heritage Baptist Church. He served in numerous positions and committees of the church, including Deacon.

James and Marilea enjoyed traveling and visited all 50 states, they took 7 cruises and visited foreign destinations including England, France, Italy, Israel, Egypt and more.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Calvary Heritage Baptist Church (1703 West Worley Street, Columbia, MO, 65203) or to the Columbia Public Schools Foundation (P.O. Box 1234 Columbia, MO, 65205). Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 5-7pm on Friday, May 3 with a funeral service at 2pm on Saturday, May 4 at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will immediately follow the service.

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

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

Donald Wayne Morris, age 85, of Columbia, passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024.

Services will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024 at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. Visitation will begin at 12:00 PM, followed immediately by a memorial service at 1:00 PM. Inurnment with full military honors will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery's Tranquility Garden.

Don was born March 7, 1939 in California, Missouri to Wallace F. and Margaret L. (Miller) Morris. He attended California High School and completed his graduation requirements while in the US Army. He served in the Army from 1958 to 1962, attaining the rank of Sergeant E-5.

Don was married to Margaret Ann (Stone) Morris on November 10, 1963.

He worked for Western Union and also Henckel and McCoy Company. Don later worked for GTE for over 33 years, retiring in 1999. He was a member of the American Legion Post 202 in Columbia and of California Baptist Church in California, Missouri.

Don was an avid sports fan of the Missouri Tigers, attending home football games with his wife for many years. He also enjoyed watching the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Chiefs. In earlier years, he would go trout fishing with his friends.

Don and his wife, Margaret, enjoyed going on cruises. They went on a Caribbean Disney Dream Ship cruise with their son, Jeffrey, and his family. Later, Don and Margaret went on an Alaskan Cruise to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. They also enjoyed traveling to visit their family.

In addition to his beloved wife, Don is survived by son Jeffrey Morris and his wife Rhonda and grandsons Charlie, Shane and Luke of Fredericksburg, Virginia; daughter Angela Morris of St. Louis; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Central Missouri Humane Society (616 Big Bear Blvd, Columbia, MO 65202).

Posted online on May 10, 2024

Ronald Jack Ebert, age 86, died on Friday, May 3, 2024, at the University of Missouri Hospital. Ron was born April 22, 1938, in Dayton, Ohio.

He received his Bachelor of Industrial Engineering degree from Ohio State University in 1961. He began work at the Frigidaire Division of General Motors while studying for his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the University of Dayton, which he received in 1965. He then moved to Bloomington, Indiana, to continue his education at Indiana University. While there, he met and married Mary Elizabeth Tucker in 1967. In 1969, he completed his Doctor of Business Administration degree (DBA) and became a father to his first child, Kristen. In that same year, the family moved to Seattle, Washington, where Ron joined the faculty at the University of Washington.

In 1971, his son, Matthew, was born. In 1973, the family moved to Columbia, Missouri, where Ron joined the faculty of the College of Business at the University of Missouri, serving as a professor until his retirement in 2003. During his career, he co-authored 19 textbooks, was a consultant to numerous companies and corporations and a member of many honorary and business societies.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mary Elizabeth Ebert, his daughter Kristen Therese Teague (Ebert) and her husband, Terrett McBrayer Teague of Downers Grove, Illinois; his son, Matthew Scott Ebert of Columbia, Missouri; his grandson, Miles Tucker Teague of Arlington, Virginia; and his granddaughter, Emery Elizabeth Teague of Downers Grove, Illinois.

In accordance with Ron’s wishes, there will be no public services and his body has been donated to the Department of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Columbia. He wanted those he knew to remember him in life with prayers and humorous stories. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Mid-Missouri, 1000 West Nifong Blvd., Bldg. 5-110, Columbia, MO 65203.

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.

OBITUARY
Jean Sapp
JULY 15, 1935 – MAY 10, 2024
Obituary of Jean Sapp
IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Nettie “Jean” Sapp, 88, of Columbia, passed away on May 10, 2024, at Boone Hospital. Services will be held on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at Memorial Funeral Home, visitation beginning at 10am and service at 11am with entombment to follow in the Memorial Park Cemetery.

Jean was born in Sturgeon, Missouri on July 15, 1935, to George Thomas Seymour and Gladys Pearl (Pulis) Seymour. She graduated from Sturgeon High School, class of 1953, one of 12 graduates that year. On June 7, 1996, she was united in marriage to Wayne Sapp, also of Columbia.

Jean was a lifelong resident of Boone County and worked as a medical secretary/transcriptionist most of her career, eventually retiring from Harry S. Truman Memorial Veteran’s Hospital.

Jean is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 28 years, Wayne, and the children of their blended family: Teresa Singleton, Cheryl (Jim) Haynie, Kenneth (Lisa) Sapp, Teresa (Rick) Briedwell, Kevin (Lena) Sapp, Troy Sapp along with 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Jean was anxiously awaiting the birth of another great-granddaughter who is expected on Jean’s birthday.

Jean is preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: George Thomas “Junior” Seymour, Dale Seymour, Kathleen Glass, William “Billy” Seymour, twin sister Jane Tinker, Betty Patrick, son-in-law, Tom Singleton and grandson, Scott Haynie.

Memorials may be made to the Coyote Hills Foster Care Ministries in care of the funeral home. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Sapp family may be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetary.com.

Norman Lester Dietzel
JUNE 22, 1938 – MAY 14, 2024
Obituary of Norman Lester Dietzel
IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Norman L. Dietzel, 85, of Columbia, passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 14th in Columbia. Visitation will be Monday, May 20th from 5-7pm at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia. Funeral Service will be 10am, Tuesday, May 21st at Memorial Funeral Home and a graveside service with Military Honors will follow at 3pm in California City Cemetery.

Norman was born June 22, 1938 in Sloan, IA to Earl and Ruth Wyckoff Dietzel. He grew up in Prairie Home, MO on the family farm. In 1962, he joined the US Army and served state-side at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1964. He moved to Columbia in 1966 to operate a Sinclair station. He left Sinclair and went to Conoco before making his career with the local Shell Service Station where he worked until 2000. He owned and operated I-70 Garage, Towing, and Used Cars until he retired in 2010. He drove the I-70, bomber class, stock car and won the first race he entered. He enjoyed being in the woods and adored his family and friends. His faith was everything.

He is survived by his life-long friend & companion, Mary Ranz of Columbia; children, Mark (Valerie Crane) Dietzel of Columbia, Marilyn Mavrakis of Columbia; a step-daughter, Brina Hartman and her mother Linda Spencer Dietzel; grandchildren, Andrea (Jordan Brunstrom) Dietzel, Gary (Julia Hamilton) Dietzel and Hannah (Simon) Dietzel-Stokes and their mother, Shannon Dietzel all of Columbia; a great-granddaughter, Stella Osterberger; siblings, Donald (Gwen) Dietzel of Prairie Home, Barbara Widel and Alice Hartsock both of Boonville; many nieces and nephews and a loving extended family, and his cat BoBo. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Carl (Jacquetta) Dietzel; sister, Loretta McKinney; and a son-in-law Muhammad Mavrakis.

Memorial contributions may be made to Welcome Home 2120 Business Loop 70 East Columbia, MO 65201.

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

Posted online on May 28, 2024

Salvatore (Sam) Joseph Losapio

4/15/1950 – 5/26/2024

Salvatore (Sam) Joseph Losapio, of Columbia, Mo., passed away on May 26, 2024. A visitation will be held from 5-7 pm on May 31 at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop West Columbia, MO with the Funeral Mass at 10am, Saturday, June 1st at Our Lady of Lourdes, 903 Bernadette Drive Columbia, MO.

He was born in Kansas City, to Salvatore and Angelina Losapio, on April 15, 1950. Sam graduated from DeLaSalle High School and went on to meet the love of his life, Mary (Graveman) Losapio, at Rockhurst College.

Sam worked tenaciously in his career in insurance and marketing, and devoted his spare time to his family and community. He served with the Knights of Columbus and gifted Our Lady of Lourdes parishioners with his beautiful voice in choir.

A proud Italian-American, Sam was the king of meatballs for family gatherings. A guest in his home never went hungry. His generosity, kindness and knack for making people smile knew no bounds, and many a young child walked away with a crisp $2 bill thanks to Sam.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Rose Miller. He is survived by his wife, Mary, their daughters, Jennie (Scott) Iverson, Christi (Tom) Everett, Juliette (Donny) Schmidt, and their five grandchildren, Lucy and Sam Iverson, Aaron and Lily Everett, and Ethan Schmidt.

Sam would have been honored if instead of flowers, you were kind to a stranger, bought flowers for an acquaintance, or just went out of your way to make someone smile. Donations to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or Our Lady of Lourdes would be appreciated.

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

Posted online on June 04, 2024

Judith Onofrio Yonke

2/16/1941 – 5/27/2024

Judith “Jude” Yonke, 83, of Columbia, MO passed away peacefully on Monday, May 27th with her family by her side. Visitation will be 11am to 1pm on Saturday, June 22nd at Memorial funeral home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West, Columbia MO with a committal service to follow in Memorial Park Cemetery Mausoleum.

Jude was born February 16, 1941, in Wichita, KS, the only daughter of Louis A. and Romana Costa Onofrio. She graduated from Mt. Caramel Catholic High School in 1959. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Drama from Clarke College in Dubuque, IA, then completed her Masters at the University of Missouri in Columbia. She taught English and English as a Second Language at Hickman High School from 1983 until her retirement in 2002. After the passing of her beloved husband, she spent time traveling to 31 countries, continuing her love of reading and spending time with her family especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Thaddeus (Suzanne) Yonke, Matthew Yonke and Louise Yonke (Jason Salem) all of Columbia; grandchildren Thomas (Haley) Yonke of St. Charles and Michael Bhat of Fulton and their mother, Kathy Bhat of St. Charles, Ethan Yonke of Columbia, and Aeryn Yonke of Columbia; a brother, Michael (Wanda) Onofrio of Allen, TX; many nieces and nephews and a loving extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Richard Yonke, a brother, Louis A. Onofrio, Jr., and her parents.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.

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

Posted online on June 04, 2024

Jerena Lee “Jerry” (Arthur) Harris, 84, of Columbia, passed away on May 29, 2024, in Columbia.

There will be a Celebration of Life on July 31, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Columbia Country Club, 2210 Country Club Drive, Columbia, MO 65201, when the family will gather to receive family and friends. A private family service will be held in June.

Jerry was born on September 7, 1939, to Clarence and Virginia (Carney) Arthur in Rolla, Mo. An only child, she was doted on by her loving parents, a postal worker and homemaker/legal secretary, as well as by a large extended family in Rolla, including many cousins, aunts and uncles who made her small family feel larger. Recognized as a leader among her peers, Jerry was a member of Rainbow Girls as a teenager, eventually becoming the State Dean for the Grand Cross of Color, one of the highest ranking statewide positions in the organization.

Jerry graduated from Rolla High School in 1957 and spent her first two years of higher education at what was then the Missouri School of Mines (now known as Missouri S&T), where she was one of only a few women in the entire student body. She transferred to the University of Missouri-Columbia for her last two years of college and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education in 1961. She was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, a member of the University Chorus, and active in the Young Democrats, volunteering on John F. Kennedy's 1960 Presidential campaign.

It was at Mizzou where she met Robert Joel “Bob” Harris, and according to family lore, she canceled their first date to instead study for an exam. Their paths did not cross again for some time until they reconnected at a mutual friend’s engagement party, and the rest, as they say, is history. Bob and Jerry were married on August 20, 1961, at the First Presbyterian Church in Rolla, Mo., and made their home in Columbia for all 61 years of their marriage. Two children were born of the marriage, Robert Jeffrey “Jeff” Harris and Julie Lee (Harris) Shaw.

Jerry worked as a math teacher at Fulton High School during the early years of their marriage. She later stayed home to raise Jeff and Julie, all the while continuing to stay active in the community and with her children’s many activities. She was a member of King’s Daughters, Ruth Circle, and served as chair of the Columbia King's Daughters Dental Aid Program Board of Directors, providing dental care to children in need. Through Dental Aid, she helped coordinate the 2015 statewide Missouri Mission of Mercy Dental Care event. She also volunteered with the American Cancer Society and served as the State Public Education Chairperson, and held leadership roles in the Boone County Medical Society Auxiliary. She was the rush advisor for the Mizzou Kappa Alpha Theta chapter for many years, opening her home to the Rush Board to prepare for Rush Week when the chapter did not yet have air conditioning. She later served as the Theta College District President for several states. While her volunteer work was important, family always came first for Jerry, and she was a constant presence and supporter at Julie’s plays and Jeff’s golf tournaments and always their fiercest advocate. When Julie was at Hickman, Jerry was instrumental in getting an extra hour created to give students more opportunities in the fine arts. In addition to her own children, she served as a mother and role model to many, opening her home for countless friends and young people who stayed, and even lived there, over the years.

She delighted in her grandchildren, Jack and Caroline Shaw and Grace and Ted Harris, and did her best to keep track of their activities and interests. She loved Dr. Pepper, and enjoyed antiquing, watching Cardinals baseball with Bob, and reading mysteries, usually determining “who did it” in the first few chapters.

Jerry worked with Bob as a scheduler and manager for nearly the last 30 years of his medical practice at Tiger Pediatrics, supporting his practice and all of the families and children. Both only children, Bob and Jerry were united as a team throughout their marriage. For those who knew them and loved them, it is impossible to think of one without the other. Bob preceded her in death in 2023.

Most of all, she will be lovingly remembered by her family to whom she was forever and unfailingly devoted: son Robert Jeffrey “Jeff” Harris and wife Katie (Perry) Harris and children Grace and Ted, of Columbia; and daughter Julie Harris Shaw and husband Stuart and children Jack and Caroline, of Overland Park, Ks.

A special thank you to all the extended family who helped Jerry after Bob’s passing, including Gregg Morgan and Earl Coleman, and many others who assisted with transportation. The family also wishes to thank the caregivers at Westbury Assisted Living and Columbia Post-Acute for their care. At Jerry's request, memorial contributions are suggested to HealthWell Foundation, 20440 Century Blvd., Ste. 250, Germantown, Maryland 20874, www.healthwellfoundation.org , to assist with out-of-pocket expenses for persons with chronic or life-altering diseases.

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 July 11, 2024

Ralph S. Havener, Jr, 98, a WWII veteran, part of The Greatest Generation, died peacefully at home, on June 2, 2024, in Boone County with his wife, Mickey, at his bedside. A memorial celebration of his life will be held Saturday, July 20, at Broadway Christian Church, 2601 W. Broadway, at 11 a.m. Rev. David Shirey will officiate. The service will be live streamed on the church’s YouTube channel. A visitation will begin at 10 a.m. A private inurnment was held for family on June 2, 2024, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.

Ralph was born on Halloween, October 31, 1925, to Ralph Samuel and Leona Ida Anderson Havener in Moline, IL. In January 1944, he graduated from Moline High School, where he played center on the football team and participated in the Army Air Corps Cadets program. He served in India, Burma, China and ultimately, on the island of Tinian in the Northern Mariannas. He received several medals, including the Oak Leaf Cluster for disabling a Japanese battleship. Twenty missions over Japan; and twenty-four months later, Ralph’s combat points allowed him to be discharged in time for Christmas, 1945.

He taught history at Illinois Western University and Black Hawk College in Moline, Illinois. He worked as an archivist for the state of Illinois; he completed his career as the first Director of Archives for the University of Mo system (1969-1990).

Ralph was baptized as an infant and completed confirmation classes before joining Calvary Lutheran Church in Moline. He considered his mother the most influential person in his life because she took him to church, introduced him to the faith and encouraged him to complete 2 years of confirmation classes at the Calvary Lutheran Church in Moline. At the time of his death, Ralph was a member of Broadway Christian Church and an associate member of Missouri United Methodist Church in Columbia.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Rev. Mickey Havener; his daughters, Adele Havener Nickolaus (David), Julie Havener Deters (Robin); son-in-law, Derek Kewley; his stepchildren, Michelle Davis Hinshaw (Paul), James R. Davis, II, (Rev. Laura Hudson) of Monroe, GA; and eleven grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepfather, Willard Klingberg; his first wife, Virginia Havener; infant daughter, Sonja; baby brother, Robert Frank Havener; youngest daughter, Valerie L. Havener Hess Kewley; and his schoolmates and lifelong friends, Larry Petit, Joseph Mortier and Don Peterson.

Memorials may be made to the Mobility Worldwide, Columbia in care of the funeral home.

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

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

Rollie Burbridge
MARCH 16, 1946 – JUNE 8, 2024

Rollie Gordon Burbridge, 78 of Harrisburg, passed away on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at his home.
Services will be Thursday, June 13, 2024 at Harrisburg Christian Church with Visitation 1 - 2 PM and a Service at 2 PM. Burial will be private for the family at a later date in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Rollie was born on March 16, 1946 in Cassville, Missouri the son of Truie Burbridge and Lela (Mikeman) Burbridge. He attended Crowder College where he played on the school’s first baseball team. On August 10, 1968 he was united in marriage to Patricia Flischel.

Rollie had a life-long love of baseball. After college, he played for the Columbia Stags. He then played in the Men’s Senior Baseball League 40+ Division World Series several years in Arizona, also playing in the MSBL Father/Son World Series twice with Greg and Brad, winning that tournament in 2005. He finished his career playing in the Hartsburg 30 and Over Tournament until age 71. He was a life-long fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. He enjoyed hunting and spending time outdoors. He worked in sales in the heating and cooling business before retiring and was a member of the Harrisburg Christian Church.

Rollie is survived by his wife: Patricia; their three sons: Greg (Jamie) Burbridge; Brad (Jessica) Burbridge; Randy (Jamie) Burbridge; two sisters: Captola Cowles and Donna Kay Blankenship; nine grandchildren: Zach Williams; Haley Burbridge; Kaitlynn Burbridge; Lucas Osdieck; Cierra Martin; Shane Burbridge; Abigail Burbridge; Addison Osdieck; Lindsey Burbridge and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two sisters: Dollie Owens and Sue Duncan; one brother: Herbert Burbridge and an infant son: Brian Burbridge

Memorials are suggested to the Hospice Angel Foundation (Compassus) 303 North Keene St. Suite 306, Columbia, MO 65201 or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Kathleen Angela Rabadan
JULY 6, 1949 – JUNE 11, 2024
Obituary of Kathleen Angela Rabadan

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

Kathleen (Kathy) Angela (nee Brizich) Rabadan, age 74, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on June 11, 2024, at Boone Hospital, after bravely battling complications from Breast Cancer.
Kathy was born on July 6, 1949, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Angelina and George Brizich, who preceded her in death. She is survived by her devoted husband, Jim Rabadan, and her loving children, Michael (Katie) and Jake Rabadan. She was the cherished younger sister of Jeanne (Lou) and Cheryl (Robert), and a beloved aunt to numerous nieces and nephews.

Throughout her remarkable life, Kathy touched the lives of many through her passion for healthcare. She dedicated 51 years of her life as a Registered Nurse, serving communities in New Jersey, California, Rhode Island, Missouri, and Massachusetts. Her commitment to nursing was not only a profession but a calling, exemplified by her tireless efforts to provide comfort and care to those in need.

At the age of 22, Kathy embarked on a journey with the Peace Corps, where she volunteered her time to teach. Her altruistic spirit led her to Brazil, where she served as a midwife for two years, bringing new life into the world with compassion and grace. Kathy's commitment to service extended beyond borders, as she also volunteered as an Emergency Medical Technician for two years in New Jersey, showcasing her dedication to saving lives and serving her community. Her legacy of kindness, compassion, and selflessness will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched. Kathy will be dearly missed by her family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Kathy’s family will receive friends and family from 3-4pm on Saturday, June 15th at Memorial Funeral Home/Columbia. A celebration of life service will follow at 4pm, during this time friends will be invited to share brief stories.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Caring Hearts & Hands of Columbia or St. Jude Hospital in Kathy's memory.

Posted online on June 18, 2024

Terry Wilson Bickford, 90, of Columbia, passed away on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at his home at Lenoir. He was born on May 4, 1934, in Weeping Water, Nebraska, the son of Wilson and Thelma (Hunt) Bickford.

Terry graduated from Weeping Water High School in 1952. After high school he attended Peru State College from 1952-1954. He joined the United States Army, where he proudly served his country from 1954-1956. He later received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Columbia College in 1976.

Once he returned from the Army, he began work at State Farm Insurance, where he spent his career until retiring after 38 years with the company.

Terry was actively involved in the community. He was a member of the University of Missouri Quarterback Club, where he served as a board member. In the 1960s, he was a member of the Hill-Nichols State Farm Insurance Looper League and slow-pitch softball club, leading the team to multiple successful seasons. He was the President of the State Farm Employee’s Activities Association in the 1960s. He volunteered at the Central Missouri Food Bank, the Columbia Senior Activity Center, and the Central Missouri Humane Society. Terry was a huge Mizzou Tigers sports fan, being a season ticket holder for most all of the sports at M.U. for many years. He enjoyed having coffee on Thursday mornings with his friends at Trumans. But the joy of his life was his granddaughter, Danielle.

Along with his granddaughter Danielle Bickford of Scottsdale, Arizona, he is also survived by a brother Reginald Bickford of Greeley, Colorado; sister Nancy Hermance of Greeley, Colorado; and other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson and Thelma Bickford; his brother, Roger Bickford; and son and daughter in law Craig and Angela Bickford.

Friends and family will be received from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024, at Parker-Millard Funeral Service, with a Memorial Service to be held at 4:00 p.m.

Memorials in his honor may be made to: Central Missouri Humane Society.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Services and Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573)449-4153. Condolences can be made to the family at www.parkermillard.com.

Betty Jo Guyton
August 7, 1941~ June 13, 2024

Betty Jo Guyton, age 82, of Columbia, Missouri passed away at her home, Thursday, June 13, 2024.

Friends will be received Friday, June 21, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at St. Luke United Methodist Church in Columbia, Missouri with funeral services beginning at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place immediately following services at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Betty was born August 7, 1941, in Bluffton, Missouri to Joe Sam Moore and Alberta “Brown” Moore.

Betty graduated from Herman High School in 1959. She married John Walker Guyton Sr. on August 6, 1961, and from this union they had three children: John W. Guyton, Stephen W. Guyton, and Stephon L. Guyton.

Betty was a long-time member of St. Luke United Methodist Church.

Betty later continued her education at Columbia College. She worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse and later as the Sterile Processing Manager at the University of Missouri Healthcare Center. Betty retired in 1997 and enjoyed her retirement.

Betty enjoyed shopping and bowling. She also liked to read her Bible or a good book. Betty was a proud gardener and passed along her gardening skills to her son John. Her favorite past time of all was spending time with her grandbabies.

Betty leaves to cherish her memory her three sons: John W. Guyton, Stephen W. Guyton and his wife Lana, and Stephon L. Guyton; grandchildren, Stephon J. Guyton Jr., Aisha K. Guyton, DeMarkqua M. Cross, Stephen W. Guyton Jr., Talana S. Johnson, and Kelcee N. Guyton; two brothers; Larry E. Moore and Don Q. Moore, and one sister, Gloria Sue Washington; twelve grandchildren, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband, John Walker Guyton Sr.; her parents Joe Sam and Alberta Moore; and nine siblings: Helen L. Flyingcloud, Joseph J. Moore, Mary V. Nunley, Leland R. Moore, Bloria F. Coleman, Peggy R. Greer, Bonnie J. Ebony, Landon B. Moore, and Collen L. Moore.

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 03, 2024

Doreen Carmella Frappier

3/5/1958 – 7/1/2024

Doreen C. Frappier, 66, of Columbia, MO passed away at home with her family by her side after a long illness. Visitation will be from 10:30-11:30 am, Saturday, July 6th at Memorial Funeral Home (1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO). Funeral service will begin at 11:30 am followed by burial in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Doreen was born March 5, 1958 in Cleveland, OH. She was the eldest of four children to David and Carmella (Gomez) Fulmer. She was a 1976 graduate of Elyria Catholic High School in Elyria, OH. After high school, she attended The Ohio State University and began working as a Veterinary Technician. Later, she furthered her education in Histotechnology. Doreen met her future husband, Brian Frappier, while working at Lakeshore Animal Hospital in Mentor, OH, and they married on September 3, 1983 in Columbus. In 1988, Brian accepted a teaching position at the University of Missouri and they moved to Columbia. Doreen also worked for the University as a Histotechnologist in both part-time and full-time capacities. Her most important job was raising her four children as a stay-at-home Mom.

Doreen’s biggest passion was animals - more specifically, her dogs. She trained her dogs for many years, creating an unbreakable bond with them while developing their skills from obedience to therapy work. She was a member of Ann Gafke’s Teacher’s Pet Drill Team where she performed routines to music at local schools, nursing homes, and charitable events. You could often find Doreen and her therapy dog at Daniel Boone Regional Library’s Reading to Rover. She also competed in multiple dog sports and was an instructor for the 4-H dog project. She enjoyed her dogs, loved her family, and had a passion for bringing joy to others. She was a loving wife, dedicated mother, an advocate for the visually impaired, and avid volunteer.

She is survived by her husband, Brian Frappier; children, Aaron Frappier of Brandon, FL, Matt Frappier of Columbia, Ryan Frappier of Sunnyvale, CA, and Allison Frappier of Lake St. Louis; siblings, Mark Fulmer of Fredericksburg, VA, Cheryl (Wayne) Lunger of Richmond, VA, and Thomas (Rhonda) Fulmer of Spotsylvania, VA; many nieces and nephews, and a loving extended family; and her beloved Schipperke, Cole and Border Collie, Nike. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Missouri 4-H Foundation or Midwest Schipperke Rescue.

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

Posted online on July 05, 2024

Bessie Gilmore, 93, of Columbia, Missouri passed away the morning of July 4th, 2024 at The Bluffs Skilled Nursing Home. She was born on December 17th, 1930 in Gretna, Nebraska, the daughter of Adolph and Anna Olsan.

A visitation will be held at 12:00pm to 1:00pm on July 12th, 2024 at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, Missouri. A funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00pm.

Bessie married Jack Gilmore on March 16th, 1955 in Columbia, Missouri. She enjoyed spending time with family and working on her puzzle books.

She is survived by her sons Mark (Emily) Gilmore and Kevin Gilmore; grandchildren Justin (Pam) Gilmore, Courtney Gilmore, Collin Gilmore, and Joshua Gilmore; great-grandchildren Margo and Arlo; siblings Viola Bailey, Lloyd Olsan, and Harold Olsan. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Betty Basket, and brother James Olsan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Alzheimer’s and Dementia research or St. Jude’s Hospital.

Please visit www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com to leave condolences.

Posted online on July 28, 2024

Dennis, Denny, Dad, Poppy. Dennis Lee Lynch, born on October 12, 1942, was known by many names. He’d say some are maybe not as good as others, then give us that sly but adorable smile, and laugh! Always adding a witty and often times hilarious remark to any conversation, Dennis was kind, thoughtful, loving (and loveable), funny, smart and truly a beautiful human being! His pride and joy were his son, Rob, and his two grandchildren Annabelle and Andrew Lynch. It didn’t matter the reason whether celebrating a potty-training milestone, or laughing at a hilarious toddler response, to celebrating them getting their driver’s licenses, he was the first one to make sure everyone around him knew what they did! He was so proud when Andrew bought his first truck with his own money, then taught himself how to repair it, or made a great football play; and, equally as proud cheering on Annabelle during her K-12 soccer career and seeing her graduate from college. He took enormous pride in every single thing they did! He loved them so! The love of his life, Sharon, and he shared in the joy of their precious grandchildren.

Born in Akron, OH and raised in Little Rock, AR, he would eventually meet his dear Sharon and marry in 1965. They spent those early and formative years in Little Rock where they made wonderful memories and lifelong friends and raised their extraordinary son, Rob. Dennis and Sharon eventually ended up in Columbia, MO. It was here where Dennis served 20+ years as an Ambassador with the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, he also served on the Ronald McDonald board and as their board President. He continued to serve the community as President of the Columbia Board of Realtors. Between cheering on the Mizzou football team, building a very successful realty business, meeting with his beloved “coffee group” every day for decades (a daily ritual that he cherished), Dennis truly was the man about town! His love for Columbia was deeply rooted in the friendships he formed and the people he encountered along the way.

Together, Dennis and Sharon joined the Missouri United Methodist Church and have been loyal stewards ever since. They’ve traveled the world, embarked on culinary adventures, and appreciated and loved every moment together. Perhaps most important, even after 58 years they found joy in laughing at each other’s quips and jokes! Although his last weeks were long and difficult, he is with his Father in heaven and can once again be his funny, ornery, happy self! And this is how he’ll be remembered.

Those of us who loved him unequivocally and have parted with his earthly body but never his soul or beautiful heart are: Sharon Lynch, his cherished wife of 58 years. Their son, Rob, daughter-in-law, Rebecca (Young), and their children Annabelle and Andrew. His dear sister Vicki Patterson, and her husband, Larry. Their daughter, Staci Broski, and her family, Brian, Brinnin and Brady. As well as other extended family and many, many friends. Dennis’ parents, Sumner LeRoy Lynch, and Phyllis Fisk Lynch Lovell preceded him in death.

All are invited to help celebrate Dennis’ accomplished life on Friday, August 16 at Missouri United Methodist Church in Columbia, MO. Visitation 10 a.m. 10:50 a.m. with a Celebration of Life at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Central Missouri Honor Flight in Dennis’ name.

https://www.centralmissourihonorflight.com/donate/.

The family genuinely appreciates your gestures and words of love and support.

Missouri United Methodist Church address: 204 S. 9th St., Columbia, MO 65201.

Posted online on July 31, 2024

Jeanette Anna Klemme, 93, of Columbia, MO passed away July 28, 2024, at Boone Hospital surrounded by her family.

Jeanette was born in Hartsburg, MO on October 14, 1930, a daughter of Otto and Hilda Nieman. She married Fritz Klemme at the Peace United Church of Christ in Hartsburg, and they were blessed with four children: Bruce, Diana, Lynn and Cheri.

Jeanette was employed with Williams-Keepers LLC for over 55 years and thoroughly enjoyed her job. She made lifelong friends with some of the people she worked with. Jeanette was a dedicated member of Wilkes Boulevard United Methodist Church in Columbia for over 60 years serving in roles as a nursery school teacher, coordinator of church bazaars and as a church trustee. She was often referred to as “As the Heart of the Church.” Jeanette was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan, even dedicating a room in her house to Cardinals’ memorabilia. She loved going on drives to explore the countryside, dining at various restaurants they found on their explorations and at her favorite restaurant, Bob Evans in Columbia. She enjoyed fishing, quilting and beautiful flowers. She volunteered with Meals on Wheels and The Wardrobe for many years. Always on the go, she loved her family, and they remember one of her favorite comments was, “make it snappy.”

Those cherishing her memory include her children, Bruce Klemme, Diana (Kenny) Hood, Lynn Baney and Cheri (Ted) Lau; grandchildren, Justin (Anna), Jeremy (Krista) and Jared Baney, Tristyn (Cody) Allen, Brayden (Brooke) Lau, Carlye and Sophie Hood; great-grandchildren, Jacob, Jace, Jensen and Reese Baney and a brother, Theodore Nieman.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband and a brother, Charles Nieman.

Visitation is scheduled for 1:00 PM with funeral services held at 2:00 PM, Friday, August 2, 2024, at Robinson-Yager Funeral Home in Ashland with Pastor Jonique Will officiating. Burial will follow at Friedens Cemetery in Hartsburg.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Wilkes Boulevard United Methodist Church.

Condolences may be shared at www.robinsonyagerfh.com.

Robinson-Yager Funeral Home is honored to serve the Klemme family.

Posted online on July 31, 2024

Eugene "Gene" McArtor, 83, passed away on July 29, 2024. He was born to John Trusten McArtor and Nina Starbuck McArtor in St. Louis, Missouri on November 12,1940. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Donna McArtor, of Columbia; son Steven and daughter-in-law Shivaun McArtor of Fort Collins, CO, grandchildren Chase, Chloe and Drew; son Michael and daughter-in-law Kristen McArtor of Kansas City, MO, grandchildren Miranda and Alyson. He is also survived by his brother Trusten Allan McArtor and wife Grace of Great Falls, VA, and his sister Ninalee Galleher and husband Jim of Woodhaven, MI. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John McArtor.

Gene McArtor spent over 40 years at the University of Missouri as a student-athlete, coach, and athletic administrator.

McArtor held Bachelors (1963), Masters (1964) and Ph.D (1972) degrees from the University of Missouri.

Academically at the University of Missouri, he was a member of ODK and the Mystical Seven. More importantly, he also met his future wife, Donna Roberts.

As a player at Missouri, he was a three-time letter winning first baseman from 1961-63, and won all-conference and all-district honors in 1963. He played on two Big Eight Conference championship teams and two squads which advanced to the College World Series. As a senior, McArtor was team captain, led the team in RBI, and was an All-Big Eight Conference selection.

After graduation from Mizzou in 1963, he spent six years teaching math and coaching at Brentwood and Hazelwood High Schools in suburban St. Louis. He returned to Columbia in 1969 to complete his Ph.D. while serving as a graduate assistant baseball coach under John “Hi” Simmons. McArtor then served as an assistant on the Mizzou coaching staff until 1973, when he succeeded Simmons as the Tiger’s head coach.

During his 21 years at the helm, McArtor compiled a 733-430-3 record. He led Missouri to a school record 46 wins in the 1976 season and remains the winningest coach in MU baseball history. He won Big Eight championships in 1976 and 1980 including three consecutive Big Eight division crowns. The Tigers also claimed four regular season championships under McArtor, who was twice named Big Eight Coach of the Year. He guided six teams to the NCAA tournament, coached 13 All-Americans and saw 55 players advance to the professional ranks.

A member of the American Baseball Coaches Association, McArtor was elected fourth vice president of the organization in 1987 and rotated through the vice president chairs to the presidency in 1991. He continued to serve on the Board of Directors and chaired the Hall of Fame Committee.

In 1987, he was named chairman of the NCAA Baseball Committee. McArtor directed the championships at the Division I level, coordinated the selection of the institutions for the baseball championship, and was the games committee chairman at the College World Series during a five year period that saw unprecedented growth of the CWS, including national television coverage, bracket expansion and stadium renovation. He most recently served as the NCAA National Coordinator for Baseball Umpires from 2008-2014.

McArtor also served as an assistant coach for the USA National Team in 1986, playing in the annual USA-Japan series, the Pacific Cup Series and the World Championships.

He was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame (2007), American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame (1993), University of Missouri Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame (2000), Greater St. Louis Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame (1998), the Webster Groves High School Hall of Fame (1998), and the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Hall of Fame (2023). His number (33) has been retired at the University of Missouri and received the ABCA Lefty Gomez award (1997) for contributions and service to the game of baseball locally, nationally, and internationally. He was named among the top 40 sports figures of the century in Columbia by the Columbia Daily Tribune. He was also tapped as a Baseball Legend by the SEC in 2013 and was recognized as the Kiwanis Don Faurot Sportsperson of the Year in 2014.

After retiring as head baseball coach, McArtor stepped into the athletic administration as Associate Athletic Director in 1994 and was promoted to Senior Associate Athletic Director in June 1997. In addition, McArtor served as MU’s interim Director of Athletics during the summer of 1998. He received the Outstanding Senior Associate Athletic Director Award presented by the All-American Football Foundation. Following his retirement in 2003, he returned to serve as Director of Project Management until 2008.

McArtor also spent 30 years officiating college and high school football with numerous playoff and championship games, and officiated college basketball for 15 years.

Outside of the accolades, his impact on the people around him was immeasurable as a husband, father, brother, friend, coach, colleague and mentor. Gene McArtor leaves behind an extensive coaching tree he mentored and taught, as well as student athletes who benefited from his love of teaching the game of college baseball. His greatest joy was a good discussion on baseball strategy at a Steak ’N’ Shake, or helping one of his players work through a new technique on a long bus ride. His sons and loving wife sum up his life by saying he was a great man, an amazing coach, and an even better husband and father.

Posted online on August 06, 2024

Beverly Joyce Massey, 90 of Columbia, passed away Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at her home.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 10, 2024 from 10 AM-11 AM at Memorial Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 11 AM in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Beverly was born on March 24, 1934 near Milan, Missouri the daughter of James Dewey Nickell and Hazel Mary Coon Nickell. She grew up on the farm and attended the local schools. She moved to Columbia in the late 1950s and raised her family here. She worked in a local hotel and for Knight’s Drug Store. She found joy later working as a nanny for several families in Columbia. In her later years she enjoyed the routine of walking at the Mall and visiting her friends she met there. She took pride in keeping a lovely home. She will be remembered as a loving mother and grandmother.

Beverly is survived by her two sons: Dennis DeRyke and his wife Marie-Laure Pearman of Mountain View, CA; David DeRyke and his wife Juanita of San Antonio, TX; one granddaughter: Bevenida DeRyke; two great grandsons: Omar and MarLee Houston; two brothers: Bud Nickell and his wife Vera; Bernie Nickell and his wife Diana and one sister: Misty Nickell Clark.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents; one sister: Barbara Nickell Davis and a toddler daughter: Mary Lou DeRyke.

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

Posted online on August 03, 2024

Edward John Mullen, Jr., Ph.D, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 82, on August 1, 2024, in St. Louis following complications from surgery.

Ed was born on July 12, 1942 in Hackensack, New Jersey to Edward J.and Elsie (Powell) Mullen. Ed earned his undergraduate degree from West Virginia Wesleyan University in 1964. He was awarded a prestigious Wodrow Wilson fellowship for his graduate education at Northwestern University, where he obtained his Ph.D in Romance Languages in 1968. He then joined the faculty at Purdue University, Department of Romance Languages,where he met Helen Braley; they were married April 3, 1971 in Lafayette, IN. Ed accepted a new faculty position in the Department of Romance Languages at the University of Missouri, Columbia. He and Helen moved to Columbia in August,1971 where he rose through the ranks and remained until his retirement in 2008. Ed and Helen had two daughters: Kathleen Chirco (Brian) and Julie DuBois (Mike), both of St. Louis.

Ed made many important contributions to the field as both a scholar and a teacher during his professional career and into retirement. Ed was an excellent teacher of Spanish at both graduate and undergraduate levels, and was the author of multiple renditions of the textbook El cuento Hispánico: A Graded Literary Anthology. He authored Afro-Cuban Literature, Critical Junctures , was the co-editor of the Afro-Hispanic Review and published numerous articles on Spanish-American literature. His scholarly focus was in the area of African-American literature, most notably on the works of Langston Hughes.

Ed was considered a pure joy by all those who knew and worked with him and he cherished time with his beloved family during summers in Montana and family gatherings.

Ed is survived by his wife, Helen; his children, Kathleen Jean Chirco (son-in-law Brian Chirco), Julie Ann DuBois (son-in-law Mike DuBois); and 4 grandsons: Matthew, Andrew and Luke Chirco and Ryan DuBois. Other survivors include sister Carolyn Bartell of Ithaca, NY and twin sister Nancy Boston of Los Angeles, CA, nephew Thomas Bartell and niece Alison Clausen. Other survivors include several grand nieces and nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Ed’s life will be held with immediate family. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ed’s honor can be made to the National Park Foundation.

Posted online on August 12, 2024

Andrea Elizabeth Fischer, M.D. passed away from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease on Aug 6th, 2024. Andrea was born in Hannibal, Missouri September 18, 1963 and spent the majority of her life in Columbia, Missouri.

As a teenager, Andrea’s enjoyed riding Quarter Horses and competitive running. She was an exceptional athlete and competitive sports played a large part throughout her life. In her senior year at Hannibal High School in 1980-81, she was the Missouri State Cross Country Champion and the Missouri State Track and Field Champion in the mile and two-mile events. She set state records in all three events. At the University of Missouri, she was a four-time All American in track and cross country and was later inducted into the University of Missouri Athletic Hall of Fame. After graduating from MU, Andrea studied at the University of Durham in England for a year on a Rotary Scholarship. Upon returning home, she pursued graphic art and design and graduated from the Art Institute of Houston. Her work took her eventually to Columbia, MO where she was a graphic art designer for the MIZZOU (Univ. of Mo.) Magazine. Andrea continued her athletic pursuits and became a national age-group cycling champion and triathlete. She placed at the Ironman World Championship in Kona, HI in 1996 and Ironman Germany in Roth in 1997. At age 38, she began medical school at the University of Missouri Medical School (where her father had attended) and subsequently worked as a radiologist at the Harry S. Truman VA Hospital in Columbia, MO.

Andrea’s legacy are her two daughters, Elizabeth and Ann-Marie Henderson. The girls’ father, David Henderson, was great support during Andrea’s illness. Surviving family members are sisters, Cynthia (Hannibal, MO) and Heidi (Needham, MA), and mother, Betty (Hannibal, MO). She was predeceased by her father, Thomas Fischer, M.D. who passed in 2016.

Andrea gifted her brain to research on Alzheimer’s Disease so others may benefit from the study of her disease.

Memorial donations may be made to the Hannibal High School Track and Cross Country Fundraiser Account.

There will be a Celebration of Life event in Columbia, MO on October 12, 2024. All are welcome. Details forthcoming, please email fischerheidi@msn.com.

Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Charles Dewayne Truelove, 70, of Columbia passed away on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at Boone Hospital.

Services will be Friday, September 6, 2024 at Memorial Funeral Home with Visitation 1 – 2 PM and a Service at 2 PM. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Charles was born on January 5, 1954 in Kennett, MO the son of Carl Kenneth Truelove and Elizabeth Darlene (Credille) Truelove. He attended school in South Missouri before graduating from the University of Missouri. He built a long career at the Truman Veteran’s Hospital in research and pathology. He faithfully followed the Mizzou Tigers, Kansas City Chief and St. Louis Cardinals. He had a passion for motorcycles, owning both a Honda and Harley. He was proud of his 2019 red Corvette and he was a member of the Mid-Missouri Corvette Club. He was a proud Mason belonging to the Poplar Bluff Chapter Order of Demolay, master counselor;

Twilight Lodge No. 114 AF & AM, Columbia MO; Columbia Valley Scottish Rite Freemasonry S.J., USA 32 Degree; Moolah Temple A.A.O.N.M.S. of St. Louis, MO.

He grew up faming and gardening and found his happy place up on his farm in Harrisburg. He enjoyed working the Tribune’s daily crossword puzzle. He looked forward to attending the State Fair each year and his favorite vacation spots were Arizona and Key West. He was a student of all things related to World War II history. He loved his black lab, Bear but not as much as he loved his grandson: Hudson.

Charles is survived by his children: Lauren Truelove (Robert Sumner) of California, MO; Shelby Truelove (D.J. Beasley) of Maryland Heights, MO; Meredith Truelove (Eli Martin) of Tempe, AZ; his partner: Phyllis Truelove; one sister: Betty (Dennis) Bess of Bloomfield, MO; a grandson: Hudson Beasley; his nieces and nephews: Justin Dunkmann (Julia); Jennifer Lawson (Cody); Debbie Knight; David Bess (Becky) one sister in law: Pam Toalson and a host of cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister Diana (Rick) Dunkmann.

Memorials in Charles name may be made to Shriner's Hospital in care of the funeral home.

Posted online on September 26, 2024

Elizabeth Kucera passed away Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at the Neighborhoods. She was 100 years old.

Liz was born in Sigourney, Iowa on July 23, 1924, the daughter of Minnie Bombei Tremmel and Jack Tremmel. At the age of six, her family moved to a farm east of Sigourney where they raised cattle and grew corn. It was there that Liz developed a lifelong appreciation for flowers and the outdoors.

A two mile walk alone each schoolday through fields and across a stream to a one room schoolhouse gave Liz a lifelong sense of independence. At school, grades 1-8 were taught by a single teacher. One school year, the teacher lived with Liz's family.

For her high school years, Liz attended school and lived Monday through Friday in Sigourney with her uncle Pete and aunt Clara. Uncle Pete was the town sheriff and auctioneer. His house where Liz stayed had the women's jail on the second floor. On Fridays, Liz went back to the farm for the weekend.

Liz went to Ames to attend Iowa State University in 1942. There she met the love of her life, Clair Leonard Kucera at a freshman dance. As World War II intervened, Clair went to Europe where he served as a First Lieutenant. Liz and Clair corresponded by mail several times each week during the war years. They were married in 1946, when he returned from Europe.

Liz earned her bachelor's degree in home economics while her husband earned a doctorate in plant ecology in 1950. They moved to Columbia, Missouri where Clair began his career at the University of Missouri as a professor of ecology.

They began their family in 1948 and had three sons and one daughter. Liz worked as a home-maker and dedicated mother. She was an accomplished flower arranger and won hundreds of ribbons over her years of flower shows with the Columbia Garden Club.

Liz was also a businesswoman and sold flowers and wreaths to grocery store flower departments. Additionally, she was known for having a booth for years at the Columbia Farmers Market where she sold flowers and vegetables and made many friends.

During her last years, she attended Grace Bible Church On Blueridge. Liz is survived by children, Ron, Kim, Carol and Gary; and grandchildren, Christina, Matt and Megan. Clair preceded her in death in 2013.

Posted online on September 03, 2024

Thomas Klaus, 88, of Columbia, MO passed away Friday, August 30, 2024 with his family by his side. Visitation will be Thursday, September 5th from 5-7pm at Memorial Funeral Home 1217 Business Loop 70 West Columbia. Funeral Service will be 10am, Friday, September 6th followed by burial at 2pm in California Cemetery California, MO.

Thomas was born January 24, 1936 in Manchester, IA to Paul and Bernice Podhaski Klaus. He served in the US Air Force until he was honorably discharged in 1963. His mother worked as a House Mom at Stephens College, and he would visit her while away on leave from the Air Force. On one of those visits he met Ruth Scott, and they would later marry. He moved to Columbia and worked as a manager for the Westlake’s Ace Hardware. He later opened his own hardware store and operated that for several years. He was an avid golfer and fisherman. He also engraved decorative stones and rocks for friends and family and created some unique gravestones as well.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Klaus of Columbia; daughter, Lea Ann Cornman of Columbia; grandchildren, Clara Luster, Cameron Cornman, & Carter Cornman; great grandchildren, Madilynn Mata, Annabelle Luster, & Tripp Luster; nieces and nephews, a loving extended family, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, P. Benjamin Klaus; and a sister, Carol Hansen.

Memorial contributions may be made to the grandchildren’s and great grandchildren’s college funds.

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

Posted online on September 20, 2024

Richard Benton Mai, 90, a resident of Columbia, passed away Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital.

Richard was born on November 13, 1933, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of LeRoy Mai and Esther (Benton) Mai. On August 3, 1958, he married Winnifred Davis, and she preceded him in death on February 23, 2008.

Richard served his country proudly as a Korean War Veteran in the United States Army. He was a long time Columbia resident and worked diligently to bring a large Sears store to town as an anchor to create the Columbia Mall. Richard enjoyed spending time at the lake, being out on the water taking his family skiing, or dropping a line in the water to catch some fish. He had a passion for being outside tending to his yard work, no matter how hot it seemed to be outside. He enjoyed listening to music and loved to read. He enjoyed watching a good football game, always rooting for Mizzou, the Dallas Cowboys, or the Kansas City Chiefs. Of all the things Richard did in his life the thing he was most proud of was being a loving and devoted husband and father, always cherishing the time he was able to spend with his family.

He will be sadly missed and forever remembered by his three children, Glen Mai of Columbia, Brad Mai and wife Rachelle of Deer Park, Washington, Karen White and husband John of Columbia; eight grandchildren; Alexandra Mai, Natalie Mai, and Billy Mai, Cherilyn (Mai) Sgrignoli and husband Will, Sarah Mai, Jared Mai and wife Meghan, Janessa Mai, Marie (White) Kelly and husband Matt, one brother, Terry Mai and wife Connie.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Winnie; two siblings, Gwen Mai and Don Mai.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Drive, with Father Roberto Ike celebrating Mass.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Drive, Columbia, MO 65203 or the Columbia Harry S. Truman VA Hospital via the website: www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences can be shared with the family www.millardfamilychapels.com.

Posted online on October 01, 2024

Susan Kay Malan, 68, a resident of Columbia, passed away on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at Boone Hospital.

Susan was born on April 15, 1956, in Ferguson, Missouri, the daughter of Joseph Ryan Rath and Margaret (Jindra) Rath. On October 10, 1980, in Ferguson, she married Barry Lee Malan, and he survives.

Susan graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and later received her Master’s Degree from Mizzou in Nursing. She spent 35 years as an RN with Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital. When she wasn’t working and tending to veterans' medical needs, she loved traveling with her family and friends. She loved musical theatre and enjoyed being in several musicals and choirs in her younger years. She was a member of the Corvette Club with her husband. She was an avid gardener who loved floral arranging and took several classes to improve her skills. Susan loved her family and cherished all the time she could spend with them. She loved her animals, from her dogs to her cats and cows.

In addition to her husband of over 43 years, she will be sadly missed and forever remembered by two children, Kathryn “Katie” Chester and husband Adam of Ormond Beach, FL and Ryan Malan and wife Rachel of Columbia; five grandchildren, Isabella Chester, Mya Malan, William Malan, Ariya Malan and Aniya Malan; one sister, Rosemary Clawson and husband Terry of St. Louis; three nieces and one nephew.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Rita Parisey.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at St. Thomas More Newman Center with Father Dan Merz celebrating Mass. A visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. until Mass time at the church. Following Mass Susan will be laid to rest in the Oakland Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association PO Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023, The American Heart Association PO Box 840692 Dallas, TX 75284-0692, or The Central Missouri Humane Society 616 Big Bear Blvd. Columbia, MO 65202.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences can be shared with the family www.millardfamilychapels.com.

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

Donna F. Chancellor, of Columbia, passed away on Friday, October 4, 2024, at the age of 81. She was born June 11, 1943, in St. Louis, Missouri to David F. Campbell and Ceola I. Knapp. She married Richard Chancellor on March 14,1964.

Donna graduated from Ritenour High School in St. Louis and began her banking career before moving to Columbia, MO in 1964. After staying home for a decade with her children she returned to retail banking at Boone County National Bank (now Central Bank of Boone County). She was the opening manager of both the Mall and West Broadway facilities and retired after 30 years. She had amazing relationships with her customers and would often find them in her travels throughout the world.

Donna was involved in many civic organizations. She was an active member of the Kiwanis Westside Chapter for 30 years, the first female Lt. Governor in Missouri and led her chapter’s annual Chili Cook-off. She also volunteered at Boone Hospital Center and the Columbia Tourism Center.

Donna was a Master Gardener and creative in all that she did. She loved to travel extensively throughout the world, spend time in the garden and connect with all her friends and family.

Donna will be remembered by her children Timothy Chancellor and Tracy (Scott) Anders; grandchildren Courtney and Corbin Chancellor, Lauren and Alyssa Anders; great-grandchildren Riley and Elliot. In addition, she is survived by her sisters Deanna Pearlstein, Marsha (Fran) Herin and Robin (Tom) Van Huis. She is preceded in death by her husband after 56 years of marriage.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at Nilson-Millard Cremation & Burial Center. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Alternative Hospice of Western Missouri, 19 E. Walnut,Suite 1, Columbia, MO 65203 or Larry Gross Lewy Body Awareness Foundation, 1101 Canterbury Dr., Columbia, MO 65203

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.

Courtesy of the Family

Jean Margaret Sax, 83, of Columbia, MO, passed peacefully at her home on October 5th 2024. Jean Sax was born on March 28, 1941, in Cincinnati, Ohio and grew up in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She became a big sister to three siblings that she adored.

Jean always had an adventurous spirit. Her wanderlust led her to one of her greatest passions: traveling. Jean traveled abroad and spent a year in Europe. She met new people, visited landmarks, and made memories that became some of her best stories. Soon after, she married Jim Sax. This union welcomed two sons, Eric and Jason, whom Jean absolutely cherished.

While raising her sons, Jean rediscovered another passion, healing others. She graduated from Cuyahoga Falls School of Practical Nursing, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio (1968) as a Licensed Practical Nurse. She later obtained her Associate Degree in Nursing from Columbus College, Columbus, Georgia (1976) and became a Registered Nurse. Jean Sax was a brilliant woman, and she knew it. She continued her education at the University of Missouri- Columbia, Columbia, Missouri and obtained her bachelor’s degree in health service management (1984).

Jean’s work in her nursing career spanned five states before she and her two sons settled in Columbia, MO. She worked in several areas of nursing including Coronary Care, Neurosurgery, Psychiatry, and the Burn Unit. Jean’s career in nursing introduced her to her greatest passion of all, her partner, Sharon Lee, whom she would spend the next 47 years with.

Jean and Sharon opened Cherchez la Femme Birth Services LTD in 1990 and spent the next ten years offering women the opportunity to experience home births. After retiring from health care Jean worked as a death investigator for the Boone and Callaway Medical Examiner’s Office and volunteered as a member of the City of Columbia Environment and Energy Commission, Tree Keepers, and the National Weather Service reporting network.

Jean and Sharon spent many years traveling, especially to their favorite destination, New Orleans. Their love for jazz music, creole food, and culture led to a deep connection to the people of New Orleans. When Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and surrounding cities in Louisiana, Jean and Sharon partnered with the Red Cross, and helped those in need.

Jean’s love of art led her to Orr Street Studios where she spent hours in her studio painting and enjoying the company of other artists.

Jean was a fierce woman who loved telling shocking stories, making people laugh, and making everyone she encountered feel special in some way. She will be dearly missed by everyone who loves her.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Roman and Sally Kuhlmann and her oldest son, Eric Roman Sax. She is survived by her life partner, Sharon Lee; her son, Jason (Amy) Sax; her grandson, Zachary (Haley) Kyriazis; great-granddaughter, Elliott; granddaughter, Holland Ross (Trayton); brother, Chuck (Karen) Kuhlmann; brother, Jeff (Marjorie) Kuhlmann; sister, Michele Kuhlmann; and nephew, Max (Minaqua) Johnston.

A private service will be held.

Posted online on October 24, 2024

Joseph Allen Yingling, 83, of Columbia, MO passed away October 5, 2024, at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital.

Joseph was born in Edgar Springs, Missouri, a son of the late Howard and Marie (Lafferty) Yingling. He married Patsy Heavin on June 29, 1974, in Edgar Springs, Missouri. He faithfully served his country for 22 years in the Marines, Army, and Air Force during the Vietnam War. He was employed for many years in the kitchen at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, until his retirement in 2014. Joseph attended Prairie Grove Baptist Church in Columbia and was a member of Edgar Springs Baptist Church.

Joseph is survived by a son, Matthew Yingling and a daughter, Michelle (Michael) Beier, and grandson, Joey Beier, all of Columbia.

A Celebration of Life honoring Joseph will be held in the spring.

Arrangements entrusted to Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, Columbia, MO.

Posted online on October 15, 2024

Michael Shaun Mahan, beloved husband and friend, passed away on October 10, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with brain cancer. He was 59 years old. Though he has left us here on earth, we rejoice in the knowledge that Mike is now in the presence of Jesus, in perfect health, free from pain, and once again able to play the piano with the brilliance that so many knew and loved.

Born on March 30, 1965, in Columbia, MO, to Joe and Wanda Mahan, Mike grew up in Missouri, attending Rock Bridge High School. After college, he eventually relocated to Florida, where his life took a turn for the better when he met and married the love of his life, Christi Conner. Together, they shared nearly 18 beautiful years of marriage.

A gifted pianist, Mike began playing at the age of five. His passion for the instrument grew over the years, leading him to become an extraordinary pianist whose talent touched many hearts. For over two decades, Mike served as the pianist at Callahan First Baptist. Whether playing a beloved hymn or an intricate arrangement, Mike’s fingers danced over the keys with a natural grace, filling the sanctuary with beautiful melodies. His ability to play was truly a gift from God that he shared generously. He deeply loved and cherished the relationships with his church family.

Outside of music, Mike was known for his love of Starbucks coffee, his unwavering devotion to the Jacksonville Jaguars, and his quirky insistence for always wearing socks. He carried these passions with a joyful spirit, making those around him smile.

Mike’s faith was an anchor throughout his life, and he drew comfort and strength from his favorite Bible verses, Isaiah 40:8 and Isaiah 41:10, which spoke to his enduring belief in God’s presence and promises.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Wanda Mahan, and his uncle, Major Doug Mahan.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Christi, his loving in-laws, Carlile and Faye Conner, his brother Stuart (Janna) Mahan of Ashland, MO, his sister Stephanie Mahan of Columbia, MO, his brother-in-law Lyle (Anine) Conner, his sister-in-law Mary Beth (Terry) Williams, and his nieces and nephews: Austin, Kayla, and Jameson (Angel) Mahan; Dalton (Lexi), Peyton, and Colton Conner; and Tristen and Bella Williams.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 15, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., and the funeral service will be on Wednesday, October 16, at 11:00 a.m. at Callahan First Baptist.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to Community Hospice of NE FL or Callahan First Baptist in Mike’s memory.

Condolences may be expressed by signing the guest registry at www.srfhcallahan.com. Shepard-Roberson Funeral Home-Callahan Chapel, 617365 Brandies Avenue, Callahan, Florida is honored to serve the Mahan family.

Suanne Comfort
Passed away on OCTOBER 12, 2024
Obituary of Suanne Comfort
IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia

Suanne (McDaniel) Comfort, age 83, of Raytown, MO, passed away on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at St. Luke’s East Hospital in Lee’s Summit, MO. She was born in Hannibal, Missouri, on August 25, 1941, the daughter of Dean Tolle and Roberta Jean (McMaster) McDaniel.

She graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1959. She then attended Christian College and the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO, graduating Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education in 1963. While teaching elementary music in Belton, MO, she then spent summers in Ann Arbor, Michigan, earning her Master’s degree in Music Education from the University of Michigan.

Suanne was united in marriage to Charles Edwin Comfort on June 18, 1966, in Columbia, MO. She was preceded in death by her husband on March 19, 2020; her parents, and one younger sister, Eileen McDaniel. She is survived by one daughter, Kelly Lynn Comfort of Houston, TX; one sister, Donna Jean (Jerry) Myers of Shelbyville, MO; and 6 nieces and nephews.

Suanne taught elementary vocal music for 37 years in Belton and then Raytown schools.

She founded the handbell program at Raytown Christian Church in 1971 and directed the bell choirs for over 50 years. The Inspiration Ringers rang in most of the 50 states, Canada, and Mexico. She also enjoyed directing the church’s adult and youth choirs for many years, serving as Music Director on staff up until her passing.

In addition to her affiliation with Raytown Christian Church she loved being an active member of the PEO Sisterhood, a national philanthropic and educational organization of women, for over 62 years, and was a founding member of PEO Chapter KH of Kansas City. Suanne was the Missouri state chair of the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers, now known as Handbell Musicians of America, and very active in their Area 8 activities, taking her ringers to area and national conferences for over 30 years. She was likewise involved in the Choristers Guild, serving as the president of the Kansas City chapter for many years, which provides mutual support and growth for children and youth music ministries. Additionally, she was a member of the Raytown Retired Teachers Association and the Missouri Retired Teachers Association.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Raytown Christian Church in her name.

Service information:
Date - Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024
TIme - 4:00 service, reception following in Fellowship Hall
Location - Raytown Christian Church, 6108 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO, 64133

Posted online on November 15, 2024

How do you say?

Juliet Marie Rodeman was a poet, a writer, a teacher, a wife, a mother, a sister, a mother-in-law, a grandmother, a member of artistic communities, a friend.

She was born in Jeff City on October 13, 1948, three minutes ahead of her twin sister, Harriet, who always said, “I kicked her out!” Along with their parents, four older brothers and six older sisters, the Lackmans lived on a dairy farm in St. Thomas, Missouri.

She married her Romeo, Ralph Rodeman, in 1971. After the ceremony, they honeymooned at Dairy Queen and lived and loved together in Columbia for 52 and 11.5/12 years. They have three children: Zach, Audrey and Anne. Juliet fashioned a life full of reading, music, art and beauty, which she shared with her family, including her beloved children-in-law Havan, Cain and Hannah, and grandchildren Sully, Arlo, Gus, Tupelo and Osage.

In 1996, she earned her Ph.D. at the University of Missouri, where she taught poetry, literature and composition for nearly two decades. Dr. J dedicated herself to her students from around the world, many of whom became friends and spent holidays with Juliet and Ralph.

Juliet's magnetism contributed to the demise of multiple drafts and computers (GDMFSOAB). She wrote her dissertation on a typewriter. Her poems appeared in various publications, leading to her 2017 book of poetry, The Voice of That Singing.

Juliet’s compassion and dedication to service translated to volunteer work with Access Arts, the Missouri Review, RAINN, MU’s International Student and Scholar Services, and the City of Refuge.

She photographed trees, mountain goats, spider webs, her sleeping children; she loved to pick up sticks, decorate with leaves and milkweed pods, record the spring peepers’ song.

The MKT was her home, a gressorial wanderer, the trees her sisters. Her path was made by walking.

A landlubber, she cherished the sea, its colors and its expanse. She traveled through mental and physical landscapes alone, and with her family and dear friends. Airplanes offered a new vantage point for her keen imagination. From aboard a small boat, she marveled at orca mothers and calves frolicking. On a night train from Moscow to St. Petersburg, she kept vigil the entire trip, too energized to miss the snowy trees and rhythm of the rails.

Juliet was preceded in death by her parents, Clara Luebbering and Stephen Lackman, her siblings Rosemary, Norine, Joseph (Dorothy), Frances, Virginia, David and her twin sister, Harriet.

Juliet cared for her sisters Frances and Harriet throughout and at the ends of their lives. She is survived by her husband, children and grandchildren; sisters Dorothy (Charlie) and Cecilia, and brothers Paul (Lillian) and Ben; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ralph was a care partner to Juliet at the home they created together. After her last meal at the family dinner table, always full of candlelight, with a blessing of intertwined hands, she capped it off with a Blizzard. She should.

Juliet concentrated warmth, from a kitchen radiator lean, a heating pad, a hug. She described avocados as “sensuous” and had keen hand-eye coordination. She whispered to cats and babies, danced easily and had a ridiculous knee slap of a laugh. In later years, she developed a sweet snort.

Many are the letters and cards, her poetry and prose, that remain with those who love her and appreciate her sensitivity, her insistent listening and hearing, her word wizardry and invention. Her radio voice; her hand holding; her ability to see and witness; her advice that to realize an internal change, an external one is necessary, eternal.

Juliet died at home with the clear fall sun rising on her face, surrounded by her family, on October 13, 2024, having just turned 76.

I’d better quit.

Think about the good times.

We have her on our lips.

A celebration of her life will be held in 2025.

Posted online on November 25, 2024
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune

Kay Keiko Henderson was a woman who found joy in dance which was fully experienced at Perry Mansfield in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. In addition to being a dancer & choreographer, Kay was a Stephens College dance department chair, an ESL teacher, an elementary special needs teacher, an actress, a perfectionist, a pineapple canner, a loud piano player, and fast walker.

Born in Hilo, Hawaii on April 22, 1936, she was the first daughter of Masaichi and Shizue Uemura. Her body found peace and her spirit the freedom to dance again on October 15, 2024, in Columbia, Missouri.

She is following her parents, brothers Edward and James & his wife Yuriko, as well as the father of her children Don Henderson. We hope their reunion brings peace sought in life. Kay is survived by her older brother Herbert, younger sister Lei Learmont, younger brother Roy Uemura, and the accompanying in-laws, nieces & nephews.

Kay’s boundless energy and dream of perfection are remembered by her son Kyle & his wife Sonya, and Kay’s daughter Tanya & her husband Ted, along with their daughters who were married this year - Lauren & Calvin Nanneman and Tara & Hayden Black. We all wish Kay peace and joy.

A Celebration of Life will occur on April 19, 2025 at Stephens College. https://forms.gle/jWLAQ1bDdp78KJjP8.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: https://perrymansfield.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate.

Posted online on October 23, 2024

“Life consists of marvelous days, wonderful days, and days of loss” - Charles Willard.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Charles Roy Willard, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated educator. Born in Fort Collins, Colorado in 1941, Charles met the love of his life, Ann Willard, in 1957, and they were together until his passing on October 15, 2024.

Charles valued education deeply, completing his Doctorate at the University of Missouri. His passion for learning fueled his career, where he enriched the experience of his students and colleagues. His journey in education began in 1964 with Columbia Public Schools when he taught German and History at Jefferson Junior High. He later served as the assistant principal at Rock Bridge High School before returning to Jefferson Junior High as principal, a role he held until his retirement in 1998. He dedicated his life to nurturing the minds of countless individuals, with the hope of instilling in them a love for learning.

He often remarked that he experienced a whole second life after retirement, allowing him to be a daily presence in the lives of his grandchildren, of whom he was immensely proud.Haley had a special gift for making him laugh with her stories about daily life, He admired Derick's dedication to education and loved their thoughtful discussions, while Eli became his golfing buddy from the time he could walk. One of Charles's great joys was following Eli's hockey journey, cheering him on every step of the way.

Charles had a passion for writing and crafted countless short stories for his grandchildren, sharing his imagination and love of storytelling. He also authored several books, leaving behind a rich legacy of words that his family will treasure.

Charles loved to golf and was an avid fan of the Missouri Tigers and the St. Louis Cardinals. He cherished spending time with friends and fellow retirees, enjoying an active social life that brought him joy. Always eager to embrace the latest technology and gadgets, he was often the first in the family to learn and share. Charles was a natural leader, guiding others with confidence in every situation.

His support and guidance profoundly shaped his family, who valued his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering presence. He leaves behind a legacy of love, knowledge, and inspiration that will forever be in our hearts.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ann; his daughters, Laura Bosley and her husband, Marty, and Rebecca Fritz and her husband, Lance; as well as his cherished grandchildren, Haley Morris, Derick Roy, and Eli Fritz.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Columbia Country Club, 2210 Country Club Dr., Columbia, MO on Monday, November 4th from 3:00 to 6:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Boone County Historical Society at tinyurl.com/4dw3csuh or Daniel Boone Regional Library at tinyurl.com/u2dhxyc8.

Submitted by HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, MissouriDavid Eugene Hoge Obituary

David Eugene Hoge, age 82, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2024, at his son’s home in Jefferson City, Missouri. Born on April 15, 1942, in Carthage, Missouri, he was the son of the late Herbert Cecil and Frances Eugenia (Steward) Hoge.

David was a proud graduate of Carthage High School and Southern Missouri State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in English, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Missouri. He had a passion for education and literature, which he cherished throughout his life.

A dedicated outdoorsman, David was an avid bicyclist and enjoyed fishing. He was also a loyal fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and the LA Raiders, relishing every moment spent watching sports. Music was another love of his; he found great joy in the sounds of The Rolling Stones. Additionally, he enjoyed playing baseball, soccer, and indulging in a good book.

David proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, as a Specialist, from 1967 to 1970 during the Vietnam War. His service left a lasting impact on him and instilled a strong sense of skepticism and distrust in the federal government.

He is survived by his significant other, Janice Sanders of Springfield, Missouri; his sons, Daniel Hoge (Mary) of Jefferson City and Alex Hoge of Columbia, Missouri; his sister-in-law, Becky Hoge. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Phil Hoge.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (5054 Monticello Road, Jefferson City MO 65109).

Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on November 15th at Jacksonville Veterans Cemetery (1479 County Road 1675 Jacksonville, Missouri, 65260).

Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, Missouri 65109 (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.

Posted online on November 06, 2024

Franklin Dale Burkett, age 91, of Ashland and formerly of Columbia, passed away November 4, 2024, at Colony Pointe in Columbia.

Frank, the youngest child of Sterling and Mabel Burkett, was born in Boone County, Missouri on December 17, 1932. Frank was preceded in death by his four sisters, Leona, Margaret, Virginia and Ruth and by his five brothers, Chester, Donald, Russell, John and Hulen.

Surviving are Frank and Nancy (Kidwell) Burkett’s two children, Lisa Burkett Keeney (Steve) and Karl Burkett (Robin) and Betty Black, Frank’s loving companion of 35 years. In addition, Frank is survived by his grandchildren, Patrick Keeney (Morgan), Beth Keeney Fowler (Drew) and Erica Turner Dodson (Tim) and eight great-grandchildren, Alexander, Ryan, Olivia, Sophia, Briggs, Zach, Sydney and Will as well as by a host of loving nieces and nephews.

A graduate of Southern Boone County High School, Frank enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on November 5, 1952. Following his boot camp training as a drill instructor, Frank was assigned to Charlie Company, 3rd Battalion at South Camp Japan. Upon his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps in 1954, Frank was awarded the Korean Service Medal. In recognition of his service, Frank was selected to join several of his fellow veterans on an Honor Flight to Washington D.C. Frank was honored to serve as a Veterans Day speaker at Ashland’s Elementary School.

In 1956, the owners of Columbia’s Pepsi Cola distributor, J.W. Stafford and Weldon Smith, offered Frank a job. He accepted the position. As with all things, Frank decided to work hard and help his coworkers along the way. Over the span of four decades Frank never wavered and carried that two-part goal forward and retired from Pepsi in 1996. At his retirement party Frank received an outpouring of love and appreciation from all who were present.

In their retirement years Frank and Betty Black enjoyed working with members of the Ashland Senior Center and in assisting with the scheduling of senior bus trips throughout the Midwest. Another favorite pastime of Frank’s was playing four-point pitch on Thursday nights at the Eagles Lodge.

Throughout his life Frank’s greatest joy came from the time he spent with his family and friends. He loved to visit and tell stories. He loved us and we loved him. How blessed we were to have known him. He lived life well and may he rest in peace.

Services followed by full military honors will be held at 12:00 pm, Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at Robinson-Yager Funeral Home in Ashland with Pastor Jim Smith officiating. The visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

A family committal service will be held at a later date at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the Central Missouri Honor Flight or Ashland Senior Center.

Condolences may be shared at www.robinsonyagerfh.com.

Robinson-Yager Funeral Home is honored to serve Frank’s family.

Posted online on November 26, 2024
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune

Marie M. Scruggs, 88, passed away peacefully Friday, November 15 at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Columbia, Missouri.

Born in a small town in West Texas, Marie spent her long, beautiful, and productive life without regard for any boundaries or expectations anyone might place on her. Marie lived abroad, traveled the world well into her eighties, taught young students for decades, and loved her family fiercely. Her life’s work, whether through service to her students or her community, was committed to civil rights, justice, and educational advancement and opportunity for all.

Iva Marie Menzies was born on January 15, 1936, in San Angelo, Texas, to William Jr. (Bill) and Anne (Crawford) Menzies of Menard, Texas. Marie spent her childhood on ranches in West Texas, learning about the ranch trade as well as how to make mouthwatering pies and dinner rolls from scratch, which her guests savored but could never recreate.

Marie pursued a career in education, first obtaining a bachelors degree with honors from the University of Texas at Austin in 1958, followed by graduate courses at Brown University. She also obtained a masters degree in education and a graduate degree as an Educational Specialist from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1990. For decades, Marie served the children of her community, first as a science teacher and ultimately as Vice Principal at West Boulevard Elementary School in Columbia, Missouri. After her retirement, she never stopped teaching, taking her beloved granddaughters Lydia and Kate on adventures, visiting her son David in St. Louis or patiently teaching her son Kevin how to make that perfect pie from scratch.

Marie met the love of her life, Donald Scruggs, while he was a graduate student at Austin Theological Seminary. They married on August 3, 1957, after which they moved to New York City so that Donald could attend Union Theological Seminary and Marie taught elementary school in Easton, PA. During this time, Marie and Donald met and befriended several lifelong friends, including Bob and Nina Seaman.

Together, Marie and Donald traveled the world and the United States in pursuit of their careers and their shared respect for and curiosity about other cultures. They lived for extended periods of time in: New York City; Geneva, Switzerland; Xian, China; and Norman, Oklahoma. Marie was equally comfortable wherever she lived, growing her ever-expanding circle of kindred friends in each place. Although she loved to travel, she cherished coming back to her three “homes”: Columbia, Missouri; a seasonal home in the LaHave Islands, Nova Scotia (Canada); and her family’s ranch in Menard, Texas. Somehow, she managed to plant roots in each place as if she had never left any one of those homes for any period of time.

Marie is survived by her daughter Margo S. Seaman (David P. Seaman) of Mountainside, New Jersey and sons David W. Scruggs of St. Louis, Missouri and Kevin A. Scruggs of Wheaton, Maryland; and her two beloved granddaughters Lydia Anne Menzies Seaman and Kathleen Louise Seaman. She is also survived by a large group of extended family and friends who already miss her terribly, including her cousins and niece, Cynthia Orr in Texas, as well as daughter-in-law Moxila Upadhyaya. Marie’s family would particularly like to honor and thank the family of Prof. William B. Fisch, with whom Marie found love and companionship after Marie lost her husband Donald, especially Molly and Danny Myers, along with their children Will, Layla, Susie, and Sadie. The family also thanks the staff and nurses at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Columbia, MO, who provided quality care and love to Marie while she resided there.

Marie never tired of learning. She studied and became a Master Gardener later in life. Marie often lost herself observing a new bird, flower, antique, or textile she had never before seen. Marie was one of those rare people who, as Stephen Sondheim wrote, could “notice every tree.” She would be thrilled if you could stop today, take a moment to learn something new, and notice every tree.

Memorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Stephens College, Donald Scruggs Civic Engagement Scholarship Fund. A celebration of life will be held in 2025.

Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
Dr. Anthony S. Marshall of Columbia passed away on November 18, 2024, at Boone Hospital Center at the age of 87.

Dr. Marshall was born on June 25, 1937, to Charles Marshall and Anna Visalgo in Detroit, Michigan.

In the 1950’s he served in the United States Army. He was a graduate of Central Missouri State University. A Columbia resident since 1970, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Missouri in 1974. His career encompassed the University of Missouri, Stephens College, First National Bank and he retired as Professor Emeritus from Columbia College.

He is survived by two sisters, Barbara Halme of Edgewater, Florida and Deborah Bentley of West Branch, Michigan; two children, Tracy Marshall and John Marshall and wife Kirsten, both of Columbia; and two granddaughters, Aleda Marshall and Loretta Marshall, both of Columbia.

A private family burial was held in Columbia Cemetery.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Country Club of Missouri in the West Ballroom on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the Anthony S. Marshall Scholarship in Business at Columbia College.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences can be shared with the family www.millardfamilychapels.com.

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

James "Jim" Henry Myers Obituary

James “Jim” Henry Myers, 84, of Columbia passed away on November 24, 2024. Jim was born on October 13, 1940, in Neosho, MO, to Knowles and Luella (Beaver) Myers. Jim grew up in Neosho and graduated from Neosho High School in 1958. He then joined the United States Navy where he served his country until he was honorably discharged in 1963. On May 21, 1971, he was united in marriage to Cindy Forbis and she survives at their home.

Jim worked at IBM for 31 years where ended up being granted “early retirement” by the company when they went through a restructuring. He then took a position as the IT Manager for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources where he would remain until his retirement in 2010.

In his early years Jim and his wife Cindy both served as youth leaders at Community of Christ Church in Columbia. He also served as the Scout Master for Boy Scout Troop 68. Jim was a black powder enthusiast and enjoyed attending black powder rifle matches with Cindy throughout the years. When he was not busy volunteering with kids or taking part in a black power match Jim could often times be found spending time outdoors and particularly enjoyed working with his cattle.

In addition to his wife Cindy, Jim is survived by one daughter Juni Myers (Darren Harvey), one son Josh Myers, and three grandsons Hawk Myers-Harrison, Flint Myers-Harrison and Luke Myers-Harrison.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

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.millardfamilychapels.com.

Posted online on November 29, 2024
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune

Jerome Michael Phelan, 88, of Columbia passed away on Wednesday, November 27 at the Neighborhoods, surrounded by his family.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 AM on Monday, December 2, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Burial will be for the family at a later date. Monday afternoon, from 1-3 PM friends are invited to gather at D. Rowe’s and celebrate his life.

Jerome was born on January 28, 1936, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of the late Michael Phelan and Eileen Carraher. He was united in marriage to Patricia (Barry) Phelan who survives. He is also survived by his children: Kathy and Al Green of Tebbetts, MO; Laurie and David Weaver of Columbia; Tim and Sarah Phelan of Columbia; Julie and Paul Hogan of New Bloomfield; ten grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild, as well as several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents: two sons: Stephen and Michael.

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

Roy Arthur English
April 7, 1947 – November 28, 2024
Obituary of Roy Arthur English

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

Roy Arthur English of Columbia, MO., quietly passed away at his home on Thursday, November 28, 2024. He was born in Thermopolis, WY., on April 7, 1947. He was the adopted son of Dr. James E. English, Jr., and Gena English. Roy was united in marriage to Marckeen English (Schroeder) in Hillsboro, OR., on February 28, 1970.

Roy graduated from University High School, Columbia, in 1965 followed by four years of service in the Navy serving in Spain and Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1970. Roy continued his education receiving a Bachelor of Science with honors from the University of Missouri in 1975. That same year, he started his federal career as an Occupational Therapist at the Veterans Hospital in Knoxville, Iowa. In 1976, he moved his family back to Columbia, working at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital, finishing his career as the Supervisor of the Occupational Therapy Department. He retired in 2004 with 30 plus years of service.

Roy loved teaching and working with students. He supervised OT students from the University of Missouri as well as other University students doing clinical rotations at the HST Veterans Hospital. He was an active participant in the VA's summer work program for Douglass High School students. He often spent his lunch time tutoring these high school students and encouraging them to work hard and graduate. He was recognized by Texas Woman's University School of Occupational Therapy for the valuable service provided to their students on their clinical rotations and received a Missouri Occupational Therapy Association Award of Excellence for Outstanding Performance in Service to the Profession. He received numerous awards for outstanding service from the VA as well as the prestigious Secretary's Hands and Heart Award. In addition, he was recognized by the Missouri House of Representatives in a Resolution for his "many years of unparalleled service and dedication to the Harry S. Truman Veterans Memorial Hospital and to the men and women who fully gave themselves for the good of this country".

He was a member of Calvary Episcopal Church, a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 280, where he volunteered and was All State Commander in 1995, a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association, and Missouri Alumni Association. He enjoyed attending auctions and scouring flea markets for hidden treasures. He loved music and singing karaoke. He was an avid collector of music CDs and records for his jukebox. In the summertime, you could always find him working in the yard or spending time lounging around his pool.

Roy cherished his family and friends and was known for his sense of humor, kindness, compassion and love for all types of music. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marckeen English, his wonderful daughter, Sara Heath, husband John Heath, grandsons Tripp Heath, Tannen Heath, Columbia, Carroll and Karen Schroeder, McMinnville, OR, Norman and Janis Schroeder, Newburg, OR, Lynn and Linda Schroeder, Beaverton OR., a nephew and eight nieces.

A memorial gathering will be held from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM at Memorial Funeral Home/ Columbia. A private burial will be at the Liberty Cemetery in Martinsburg, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or St. Jude's Children's Hospital or organization of choice.

Posted online on December 10, 2024
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune

Hattie Ann Gatewood age 72, of Columbia, transitioned on Friday December 6, 2024, at the University of Missouri Hospital with her family by her side.

Hattie was born on August 27, 1952, in High Hill, Missouri to Hattie Johnson and James Alton Johnson.

Hattie leaves behind her husband of 54 years William M. Gatewood (Billy) and four children; William Gatewood, Simona Gatewood, Louis Gatewood (Latoya) and Sarina Gatewood. Hattie leaves behind 6 grandchildren; DeAundre Gatewood, Marrissa Gatewood (Demetrius Young), Louis Gatewood Jr., Kaitlyn Gatewood, Maurina Clark and Bryson Ford. Hattie also leaves behind 4 great grandchildren. Hattie also leaves behind her siblings: Clark Johnson (Betty Estes), Russell Johnson, Frances Johnson, Delbert Johnson, Clara Marteen, and Gloria Johnson and sister-in-law Finnette Gatewood. With a host of nieces and nephews.

Hattie is preceded in death by both parents, sisters Nancy Ann Stevens, Pauline Johnson, brother-in-law Gerry Marteen and nephews Kenny Johnson and Gerry D. Marteen.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, December 16, 2024, in the Jefferson Chapel at Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory with a visitation being held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Following the services, Hattie will be laid to rest in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences can be shared with the family www.millardfamilychapels.com.

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

Charles Gordon Gibbens passed away surrounded by his family on Dec. 7 at age 94.

Charlie was a loving husband and extraordinary father, grandfather, uncle, friend, volunteer and Tiger fan. His life well-lived will be remembered and celebrated at 3 p.m. Sunday, December 22, 2024 at Missouri United Methodist Church. A reception for family and friends will follow the service at the Country Club of Missouri. A live stream will be accessible by a link on the church's website (www.moumc.org) for those unable to attend the service in person.

Born in Dodge City, Kansas, June 1, 1930, Charles Gordon Gibbens was the oldest son of Neil and Nola (Christian) Gibbens.

Charlie graduated from Dodge City High School and attended Kansas State University. He enlisted in the United States Army from 1953-1955 and served in Fort Chaffee, Ark., before returning to K-State, where he earned a B.S. Degree in business in 1956. He was a member of Alpha Kappa Lambda fraternity and the Kansas State Alumni Association.

Charlie met Jean Cox on a blind date at K-State, and they were married July 14, 1957 in Kiowa, Kansas. The couple moved to Des Moines and later Grinnell, Iowa, where Charlie worked as a sales associate for Mobil Oil and two of their three children were born.

In 1961, Charlie and Jean purchased the Columbia Credit Bureau and a debt-collection service and moved their young family to Columbia, where their third child was born about a month later. The business was renamed Credit Bureau Services and was affiliated with Equifax, an international information system. He also owned Accounts Management Services. Under Charlie’s guidance, the credit bureau grew into a thriving business, and Charlie sold it to Equifax in 1998.

Service was a way of life for Charlie, and he spent a great deal of time as a goodwill ambassador and volunteer giving back to his beloved community and to anyone he met who had a need.

Charlie had been a member of Missouri United Methodist Church since 1962, was a past president of the Rotary Club of Columbia and of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, was elected to the Boone Hospital Board of Trustees for eight years, served on the board of directors of First National Bank & Trust for five years, and was a member of Crimestoppers. He also was involved on a national level in his industry as member of Associated Credit Bureau of Missouri and served on the national board of Associated Credit Bureaus.

Although they graduated from K-State, there were no bigger Missouri Tiger fans than Charlie and Jean. Both were fixtures at Mizzou basketball and football games. Charlie served as past president and co-founder of the first basketball booster group at the University of Missouri, The Tail Twisters, and as past president and member of the Quarterback Club. He had the distinction of being the first driver of MU’s “helmet car.” Charlie and Jean were members of the University of Missouri Jefferson Club and the College of Arts and Science Mosaic Society. For their devotion to MU, Charlie and Jean were honored as lifetime associate members of the University of Missouri Alumni Association.

After retirement, Charlie became a tireless and loyal volunteer at Benton Elementary and Boone Hospital Center. He loved helping with homework and teaching reading and social skills before school at Benton, and donning his red vest to welcome patients and visitors as a greeter at Boone Hospital.

In recognition and appreciation of his more than 4,000 hours of volunteer service to his community, he received the President’s Volunteer Service Award in 2007. He also was inducted into Columbia Public Schools Foundation’s Hall of Leaders for his 13 years at Benton and for raising money and collecting supplies for Columbia schools. For his service at Boone Hospital, he was recognized as Volunteer of the Year in 1999, received the J.C. Penney Golden Rule Award and was the honoree, along with wife, Jean, at the 2016 Boone Hospital Foundation Gala.

He continued volunteering until the last week of his life, helping to deliver food with Meals on Wheels.

Charlie also enjoyed being a lunchtime regular at the back table at Booche’s, where he and his cronies solved many world and community problems, at least to their liking, while enjoying countless cheeseburgers.

Many hours also were spent on the golf course at the Country Club of Missouri where Charlie played regularly with “The Wild Bunch” and “The Dots.” He enjoyed playing in the Missouri Seniors tournaments.

Charlie was a survivor of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after having been diagnosed in 2013 and he was cancer-free until his death.

After Jean’s passing in 2020, TigerPlace became Charlie’s home where he was much loved and he entertained staff and residents with his smile, positive nature and dance skills.

Charlie is survived by a son, Kevin Gibbens (Whitney); and two daughters, Joni See (Mike) and Kim Gibbens (Montell Justice); “Papa’s 7” grandchildren, Wade Coonce, Katelin Coonce, Brynden Ferriter (Jack), Christian Gibbens, Colin Gibbens (Madison), Samantha See and Chandler Gibbens. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Jean, his parents, Neil and Nola, and brother, Donald.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to Columbia Public Schools Foundation, Voluntary Action Center, the Heritage Preservation Endowment Fund at Missouri United Methodist Church, St. Croix Hospice or a charity of your 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.millardfamilychapels.com.

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

Gerald "Jerry" Holloway, age 79, of Columbia passed away on December 13, 2024.

Jerry was born to Dr. William Holloway and Jane Holloway in San Diego, CA, where his dad was in the Navy. He was the oldest of four children and grew up in Modesto, CA, after his father‘s Navy days.

Growing up, Jerry was a hard worker who delivered newspapers and worked in a canning factory. He was an avid swimmer, hiker, and mountain climber. He climbed many of the mammoth California mountains and hiked in Lake Tahoe area.

Following high school and college at University of California Davis, Jerry served in the United States Navy officers candidate school where he flew F4 jets off the Kennedy carrier for five years during the Vietnam War.


Upon being granted an honorable discharge from the Navy, he went to crop dusting school in Colorado and then worked as a crop duster in Kansas until Memorial Day, 1976, when a landing accident resulted in a broken neck and quadriplegia.

He was flown to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center in San Jose, CA, where again he was reunited with his mountain climbing buddy and underwent rehabilitation. Following rehab, he went to UC Berkeley and studied computer programming in an intensive program for the disabled.

After graduation, he was immediately hired by Hewlett-Packard, corporate headquarters and moved to Palo Alto where he got better acquainted and eventually married Rochelle. They moved to Chicago in August 1983.

He continued working for Hewlett Packard, drove his van in the Chicago winters, worked full-time, sang tenor in the church choir and during those years took up roasting coffee beans (which would become a passion throughout the rest of his life).

Jerry and Rochelle were blessed with two wonderful sons Joseph and Gabriel. His life was marked by his strong faith in Jesus, courage to push on, with love for his family, country and music.

He is survived by his wife, Rochelle; two sons: Joseph and Gabriel; three siblings: Carol, Jim and Mary; dog pals Lucy and Kano; along with a host nieces, nephews, cousins and friends from church and life. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends will be received from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Missouri United Methodist Church 204 S. 9th St., Columbia, MO 65201 immediately followed by the memorial service. Inurnment with full military honors will follow at Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, 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 December 17, 2024
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune

Beverly Odum, 75, of Columbia, MO passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, December 14, 2024, after her battle with a rare lung cancer. Visitation will be 10:00 am – 11:00 am, Thursday, December 19th at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Drive in Columbia. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am at the church followed by burial in Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.

Beverly was born November 25, 1949, in Kennett, MO. In 1967, she graduated from McKinley High School. She attended Monmouth College in Illinois and received her Bachelor’s in Education in 1972. Teaching was something she always felt called to do, and she began her career teaching second and third grade in St. Louis. On November 27, 1971, she married Thomas Odum, and they moved to Columbia, MO in 1977. After that, Beverly worked for 37 years as a beloved Kindergarten teacher at Our Lady of Lourdes Interparish School.

Beverly leaves an unforgettable impression on those who knew her. Her compassionate and caring heart captivated everyone who had the chance to know her. She enjoyed embroidery, photography, bargain hunting, and event planning in her spare time. She always took every opportunity to step in when others needed help. She loved being an active participant in her sorority and teacher friend groups.

Family was very important to Beverly. She did not miss a family celebration in St. Louis; Christmas party, Wedding, Baby Shower, Easter, Graduation, she was always there. She was so thoughtful, and she always brought gifts for all the children. Her consideration for others carried over to her years of teaching, and she made an everlasting impact on all those she taught. She lived out every day with faith in God and shared that faith and positivity with her students.

Beverly was a wonderful wife to Tom and mother to Elizabeth and Emily. She showed her love and support in more ways than can be named. She was overjoyed to become a grandmother in May of 2022. She cherished her days taking care of Nolan, up until her illness progression. She was a role model of strength and courage throughout her battle with cancer. She would make it a goal to get to know all the staff who helped her, and she often still put the needs of others above her own.

Beverly is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth Odum of Jefferson City, and Emily (Jeff) Roper of Columbia; grandson, Nolan Roper; siblings, Ruth (Bill) NIblack, and Joy (John) Bryant; siblings in-laws Steven (Irene), Mary Trueman, Judy Odum, and Cathy (Doug) Scherrer all of St. Louis, many nieces and nephews, and a loving extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband Thomas Odum, mother Ruth Gage, father Jimmy Gage, brother Harold Gage, brothers-in-law David Odum, and Dennis Trueman, grandparents, loving aunts and uncles, and great niece Ansley Odum.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Our Lady of Lourdes Interparish School 817 Bernadette Drive Columbia, MO 65203 or St. Jude Children’s Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN 38105.

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

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

Kathleen Ferguson, 70, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on December 24, 2024.

She was born on November 11, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri, to John Joseph Lawler Sr. and Martha Anne (Loving) Lawler.

Kathy is survived by her son, Eric (Jill) Ferguson, her cherished grandson, Max Ferguson; and her siblings, James (Bonnie) Lawler, John (Rhonda Rhodes) Lawler, and Thomas Lawler.

Kathy was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She spent many years working at McDonald’s and was a familiar face to many. Kathy had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, and was an avid birdwatcher. She was a longtime fan of the Mizzou Tigers and a proud member of the POETS. A regular at Murry’s, Kathy had a warm and welcoming presence that touched the lives of many, especially as a loving Nana to her grandson Max. Her kindness, generosity, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A visitation will be held on December 30, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2201 W Rollins Rd, Columbia, MO 65203, followed by a memorial service.

Kathy will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

In honor of Kathy 's love for animals and the community, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Central Missouri Humane Society, 616 Big Bear Blvd, Columbia, MO 65202, or to Trinity Lutheran Church.

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.millardfamilychapels.com.

Posted online on December 28, 2024
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune

James Brooks “Jim” Agan of Columbia, MO passed away Friday, December 27, 2024 at his home after a lengthy illness.

Jim was born in Lebanon, MO on July 14, 1938, to Glen and Sybil (Rogers) Agan. Jim was one of four children and graduated from Lebanon High School in 1956. Jim joined the Army and served for three years, including 13 months in post-war Korea. On his return from the Army, Jim went to IBM School in Indiana and then went to work at MFA Insurance (now Shelter Insurance) in 1961 and dedicated more than 40 years to IT before retiring.

He was married to Connie Bennett on July 12, 1964 and they were blessed with 60 years of marriage.

Jim loved spending time with his grandchildren and attending their band concerts. He enjoyed life outdoors, spending many hours gardening, cutting wood and fishing. Jim enjoyed watching western movies, listening to 50’s music, collecting pocket knives and working on chainsaws and lawn mowers. He loved history of any kind and enjoyed visiting historic sites.

Jim is survived by his wife, Connie of the home, his daughter, Stephanie of Columbia, his grandchildren, Evan and Claire Wilder of Harrisburg and son-in-law, Mike Wilder of Harrisburg. He is also survived by his siblings, Mary Lee (Earl) Bowlin of Springfield, MO, Glenda Potter of Lebanon, MO, Roger Agan of Lebanon, and several nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his infant son, Wesley Glen Agan, and his daughter, Stacy Lynn Agan Wilder in addition to his parents. He was also predeceased by his brother-in-law, Robert Potter; his sister-in-law, Marcia Agan, and his niece, Holly Bowlin.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 31st at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West, Columbia, MO. A memorial service will immediately follow. Share fond memories and condolences online at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.                 



               

     
         
  
  
   














   

















Back to Top of This Page or Back to Home Page