KEWPIES' FAMILY MEMORIAL PAGE
KEWPIE MEMORIAL PAGE
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CHARLEY
BLACKMORE
Those we
love truly never die
2312 DEER
CREEK CT
COLUMBIA
MO 65201-3564
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"
Ellen Willett, mother
of Cynthia Willett (Class of 1974) and Lori Willett (Class of 1976)
passed away Friday, December 26, 2025, in Columbia.
Charles Lewis Roach,
father of Micah Roach (Class of on 2002) passed away Saturday,
December 20, 2025, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia.
Joseph Warren Filbert, father of Ryan
Filbert (Class of 1996) passed away Monday, December 15, 2025, in
Columbia.
Evelyn Louise Yanders,
mother of Mark Yanders, deceased (Class of 1974) and Kent Yanders
(Class of 1977) passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025.
Jack Daniel Endicott, father of Laura
Endicott Brockert, deceased (Class of 1988) passed away Friday,
December 12, 2025, in Columbia.
Chester Lane (CL) Heyer,
father of Paula Naugle (Class of 1984) and Mark Heyer (Class
of 1985) passed away on December 10, 2025 at his home in Columbia.
Harlan Palm, husband of Betty
Throckmorton (Class of 1964) passed away Tuesday, December
9, 2025, at The Bluffs in Columbia.
Nancy Jo Cole, mother of Kirby Cole
(Class of 1997) and Jon Cole (Class of 2002) passed away
Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City,
MO.
Clydia Joy Aiyana Honovi,
mother of Nancy Ellen Wright (Class of 1994), George Joseph
Stevenson IV (Class of 1999) and Bartley Milam Stevenson (Class of
2002) passed away Saturday November 29th, 2025, in Columbia,
Missouri.
Dr. Kul B. Aggarwal,
father of Neha Aggarwal (Class of 2000) departed this life on
November 27th at his home in Columbia.
Arlene Fay Cavanaugh,
mother of Robert Cavanaugh (Class of 1978) passed away Saturday,
November 8, 2025.
Beverly Sue Steen (née
Goodwin), mother of Marla Steen Perryman (Class of 1983) passed
away Monday, October 27, 2025.
Carrie Lucille Eiffert (Lucy), mother of Brad Eiffert (Class of
1977), Greg Eiffert (Class of 1979) and Sharon Ward (Class of 1981)
passed away Thursday, October 16, 2025 at her home in Columia.
Dr. Kenneth Loem Rall,
father of Kenneth Rall, Jr., deceased (Class of 1977), Susan
Bloomfield (Class of 1979) and Kurt Rall (Class of 1982) passed away
Monday, October 13, 2025.
Elizabeth Donnell Nelms,
mother of Katherine Hughes (Class of 1987) passed away in her home
in Columbia, Missouri, Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
Bruna (Ruggiero) Ortbals, mother of
Phillip Ortbals Class of 1996) and Sara Brown (Class of 2000)
passed away at her home in Argyle, Missouri, Friday, September 26,
2025.
Robert H. Jett, Sr.,father
of Robert H. Jett, Jr. (Class of 1984) passed away Friday, September
26, 2025, at Boone Hospital Center, in Columbia.
Joseph “Joe” Anthony Cricchio, father of
Janet Cricchio (Class of 1988) and Michael Cricchio (Class of 1989)
passed away Thursday, September 25th, 2025 in Columbia, Missouri.
Arlene Kalafa, mother of
Kimberly Blackburn (Class of 1980), Monica Barton (Class of 1983)
and Sheila Stewart (Class of 1985 passed away on Sunday, September
7, 2025.
Carla Lee Anderson,
mother of Jerilyn Hahn (Class of 1974) passed away at her home in
Columbia on September 4, 2025.
Bud
Holiman, brother of Minnie Lee Squires, decased (Class of 1950)
and Joyce Dean Williams (Class of 1956) passed away on Tuesday,
September 2,2025.
Robert E. Everman,
father of Christopher Everman (Class of 2003) passed away at his
home in Columbia on Saturday, August 23, 2025.
Frederick Edward Tonnies, father of Sarah
Pope (Class of 1990) passed away Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
Terry Lee Stiles,
father of Kimberly Collier (Class of 1991) passed away Monday,
August 18, 2025.
Shirley Jean Ballard,
mother of Sharon Brim (Class of 1967), Roger Ballard (Class of 1969)
and Rita Millner (Class of 1977)passed away Saturday, August
2, 2025.
Gabriele Hildegard McCown,mother
of Colleen McCown (Class of 1999), passed away Wednesday, July 30,
2025.
Emma "Jeanne" Buckman,
mother of David Kim (Class of 1974), James Kevin, deceased (Class of
1981) and Charles Keith Buckman (Class of 1984) passed away on
Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at Landmark Hospital in Columbia.
Richard Ryland Dohm,father of Christopher
Clark Dohm (Class of 1984) and Gregory Hathaway Dohm (Class of 1988)
passed away Monday, July 21, 2025, in Columbia, Missouri.
Gerda Lisbeth Yasuda,
mother of Lisbeth Yasuda, deceased (Class of 1997) passed away at
her home in Columbia, Saturday, July 12, 2025.
Barbara Mary Kernell,
mother of Thomas Kernell, deceased (Class of 1979), Jim Kernell
(Class of 1980), Bob Kernell (Class of 1983) , and Pat Kernell
(Class of 1988) ; passed away Saturday, July 12, 2025.
Deborah Shannon Booker, mother of
Margaret Booker, deceased (Class of 1980), Sarah Booker (Class of
1982) and Charles Booker (Class of 1984) passed away at home in
Columbia, Friday, July 11, 2025.
Billy
Glenn Cumbie, father of Patricia Broadfoot (Class of 1974),
Douglas Glenn (Class of 1982) and John Scott Cumbie (Class of 1984)
passed away July 7, 2025, at the Breeze Park Senior Living Facility
in Weldon Spring, Missouri.
Tommye
Jean Stolt mother of John Thomas (Class of 1976) and Judith
LaRose (Class of 1977) passed away Sunday, July 6, 2025.
Roxanne Liras, mother of George
Liras (Class of 1995) and Alexia Juriansz (Class of 1998) passed
away Saturday, July 5, 2025, at her home in Columbia.
Mary Helen Garver, wife of Fred Garver,
deceased (Class of 1964) passed away Friday, July 4, 2025 in
Columbia.
Dianne Filbert, mother
of David Caspall (Class of 1992) passed away Monday, June 30, 2025
in Columbia.
Charles A. Caine,father
of Candy Hamilton (Class of 1975), Caren Wickell (Class of 1977),
Cathy Young (Class of 1981), Carla Hurtado (Class of 1985) and Casie
Rauer (Class of 1989) passed away at his home in Columbia on June
24, 2025.
Rebecca Alice “Becky”
Forbes (née Burch), mother of Samantha Brewer (Class of 1983)
and Stephanie Petersen (Class of 1997) passed away June 20, 2025, in
Bonne Terre, Missouri.
Peter Eric Freidin,
father of Shannon Pryor (Class of 1999), passed away at Windsor
Estates in Camdenton, MO on June 19, 2025.
Kevin Eugene Cossey,
father of of Savannah Cossey (Class of 2019) and Collin Cossey
(Class of 2022) passed away Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
Dorothy “Dot” Whitney,
mother of Karen Lower (Class of 1975) passed away Monday, June 16,
2025.
Nancy Ellen (Hoover)
Patchett, mother ofJamie Patchett (Class of 1984), Amy Patchett
Mayberry (Class of 1988) and Adam Patchett (Class of 1998) passed
away Saturday, June 14, 2025, in Columbia.
James Gebhardt, father
of Debra Hellmann (Class of 1975), Linda Dains (Class of 1978) and
Pamela Knowles (Class of 1982) passed away Thursday, June, 5, 2025.
Barbara Hirst Devine, mother of T.J. Devine (Class of 1996) and
Kathleen Hinrichs (Class of 1999) passed away on Sunday, June 1,
2025, at her home in Columbia.
Marshall "Lee" Morgan,
father of Moriah Lorinda Morgan (Class of 2008) passed away
Sunday, May 11, 2025.
Patricia (Pat) Ann Spangler
(nee Schmidt), wife of Jay Spangler, deceased (Class of
1963) passed away Firday, May 9, 2025 in St. Charles,
Missouri.
Elinor “Faye” Baskett Hayes,
mother of Kim Grant (Class of 1982), Staci Henks (Class of 1983),
Gena Patton (Class of 1984), Joe Hayes (Class of 1986), Amie
Hollinger Niemeyer (Class of 1988) Kati Grant (Class of 1996) passed
away at her home in Columbia, Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
Emma “Kathleen” Klemme,
mother of Paula Griffin (Class of 1971) and Jeffrey Klemme (Class of
1977) passed away on Saturday, May 3, 2025 in Columbia.
Thomas O. (Mack) McCarthy, husband of
Sharon Neiger (Class of 1966) passed away Friday, May 2, 2025
in Town and Country, Missouri.
Charles Dean Burchett,
father of Deana Holmes (Class of 2000) passed away on Wednesday,
April 23, 2025.
Shirley Jo Turner Taylor,
mother of Deborah Fischgrabe (Class of 1972), Karen Schnetzler
(Class of 1974), and Tammi Cook (Class of 1981) passed away
Wednesday, April 16, 2025.
John Earl
Hewett, father of John Hewett (Class of 1983) , died Tuesday,
April 15, 2025 at Accura HealthCare in Aurelia, Iowa.
Jessie Raymond Roberson,
father of Bruce Roberson(Class of 1961), Daniel Roberson (Class of
1968), Patty Russell (Class of 1971) and David Roberson (Class
of 1973) passed away Thursday, April 10, 2025.
Randy Breuer, father of
Breanna Crowder (Class of 1997) passed away at his home in Columbia
Monday, April 7, 2025.
Robert
Sappington, father of Michael Edward Sappington (Class of 2002)
and Erin Elizabeth Green (Class of 2004) died Saturday, April 5,
2025 in Boardman, Oregon.
Robert Michael “Bob” Bruns,
father of Robert Bruns, Jr. (Class of 1986), Jennifer Bruns Forck
(Class of 1988), and Brian Bruns (Class of 1994) died at his home in
Ashland, Missouri, Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Ray Gardi, father of Cheyenne (Class of
2016) and Aram (Class of 2021) passed away Tuesday, March 25,
2025 in Columbia.
Nancy Lumb, wife of Ron Lumb (Class of
1963) passed away Sunday, March 23, 2025, in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Robert Dale Chapman,
father of Lisa Scroggins (Class of 1987) and Robert Chapman (Class
of 1990) passed away Thursday, March 20, 2025.
Geraldine Marie “Gerri”
Shelton, wife of Norman Shelton, deceased (Class of 1954) passed
away Monday, March 17, 2025 at her home in Columbia.
Ellis Owen Jackson, Jr.,
husband of Pat Aslin (Class of 1958) died Monday, March 17,
2025, in Tempe, Arizona.
Mary Belle McDonald, mother of
Alisa McDonald-Warren (Class of 1981) and Carla Johnson (Class of
1982) passed away Saturday, March 15, 2025.
Sandra Cheryl Cockriel
(née Harlan), mother of Steven Cockriel (Class of 1979), Mark
Cockriel (Class of 1980) and Julie Sanders (Class of 1989) passed
away Sunday, March 9, 2025, in Columbia, Missouri.
Howard Ray Eiffert,
father of Brad Eiffert (Class of 1977), Greg Eiffert (Class of 1979)
and Sharon Ward (Class of 1981) died at his home in Columbia,
Wednesday, March 5, 2025.
Harold Milton Hull, II,
father of Christine Hull (Class of 1991) passed away Saturday, March
1, 2025.
Steven Lawrence
Wallerstein, brother of David Wallerstein (Class of 2012) passed
away Friday, February 28, 2025.
Kim Dawn Eisterhold,
wife of Paul Eisterhold (Class of 1966) passed away Wednesday,
February 12, 2025 at Compassus Hospice in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Wyman Heath, father of
sons Dennis (Class of 1972), Jerry (Class of 1974) and Belinda
(Class of 1991) passed away Sunday, February 2nd at Homestead
Memory Care in Olathe, KS.
Janet Carol (Clark) Freie,
mother of Carissa Jacobs (Class of 1990) and Jordan Freie (Class of
1993) passed away Monday, February 2, 2025 in Overland Park, Kansas.
Norris E. Kruse, father of Mike Kruse
(Class of 1979) passed away Saturday, February 1, 2025 at University
Hospital in Columbia.
George Lee Crum,
husband of Connie Warren, deceased (Class of
1963) passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2025 in Columbia.
Lloyd Eugene “Gene”
Cunningham, father of Connie Browning (Class of 1968), Rebecca
Birr (Class of 1972) andMartin Cunningham (Class of 198) passed away
Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at The Neighborhoods in Columbia.
Joseph Charles “Chuck”
Headley, father of Nils Headley (Class of 1985 and Kirsten Eyles
(Class of 1988) passed away Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
Terry Blaine McDonald, father of Shawn
McDonald (Class of 1990) and Shannon Smith (Class of 1994) passed
away Sunday, January 26, 2025 in Columbia, MO.
David L. Knight, father of Debby
Knight-Clausen (Class of 1980) and Dan Knight, deceased (Class of
1985) Friday, January 24, 2025.
Dale
Patrick Swoboda, father of Geoff Swoboda (Class of 2005) passed
away Monday, January 20, 2025 in Columbia.
Wayne Allen Baum, father of Angela Baum
(Class of 1989) and Wayne R. Baum (Class of 1997) passed away
Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis.
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Wayne Allen Baum,
73, of Columbia, passed away January 2, 2025 at Barnes Jewish
Hospital in St. Louis.
Wayne was born September 11, 1951 to
Joseph Baum and Anna Mae Jones.
Wayne was a lifelong
carpenter who took pride in his work. He was an avid hunter and
fisherman that never missed deer or turkey season. He had a strong
work ethic, was humble, reliable, loyal, and always there to lend a
helping hand.
Wayne is survived by his wife, Beverly A. Baum;
daughter, Angela (Rick); son Wayne R. (Desereh); grandchildren,
Karlie, Richard, Justice, Jessica; siblings, David Long, Joe Long,
Gloria Ridener; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in
death by his parents; siblings, Edna, Lola, Doris, Frances, Daniel,
Paul, Jerry.
Family and friends are invited to join us for
Wayne’s Celebration of Life Sunday February 23, 2025. Service at
2:00 p.m. with food and visitation immediately to follow at
Woodcrest Chapel, 2201 W Nifong Blvd, Columbia, MO.
Posted online on February 13, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Dale Patrick
Swoboda of Columbia, MO, passed away on January 20, 2025. He was
born at St. Mary’s Hospital in St. Louis, MO, on March 17, 1948. He
graduated from Mercy High School in 1966 and earned a Bachelor’s in
Economics from the University of Missouri in St. Louis. He earned
both Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Public Administration from
Arizona State University in the late 1980s.
Dale and his
wife, Georgalu Price Swoboda, met at the Magic House in St. Louis in
1981 and began their life of adventure on June 11, 1982 when they
were married in Granbury, TX.
Dale spent 16 years as a
professor, teaching Master’s level Public Administration for
University of Missouri Columbia (1992-1997), then moved on to Walden
University, a nationally accredited online university based in
Minneapolis, MN, from which he retired in 2018 as Professor
Emeritus. In 2009, Dale and Georgalu published a textbook “Managing
Non-Profit Financial and Fiscal Operations”. Other highlights in
Dale’s career include U.S. Army Military Police and Chaplains
Assistant (1968-1972), Project Manager at East-West Gateway Council
of Governments in St Louis, and Budget Coordinator at the Missouri
Department of Higher Education in Jefferson City, MO.
Dale’s
faith was strong and very important to him. He was a devoted member
of Woodcrest Chapel in Columbia, MO, where he enjoyed his
involvement in many small groups, including Welcoming, Men’s
Ministries, and Children’s Ministries. He was a true-blue Mizzou
Tigers and St. Louis Cardinals fan and he loved watching and
participating in sports. He was an avid reader – especially the
western series “Longmire”, he played the harmonica, and sang in
Columbia Parkinson’s Support Group’s “Music-in-Me Singers”. He
traveled all fifty states, with a particular affinity for Hawaii and
Alaska, and his international travels included Canada, Jamaica,
Mexico, and multiple European countries. His time in the Army sent
him to Georgia, California, and Turkey. His community involvement
included parenting groups at schools, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and
Boy Scouts.
Dale’s love for Georgalu and his family and
friends knew no bounds. His children include daughters Sara Shaw and
Emily Swoboda of St. Louis, MO; son and daughter-in-law Geoff and
Lindsay Swoboda of Salem, OR, and granddaughters Amelia Shaw of St.
Louis, MO, and River Swoboda of Salem, OR. Dale’s siblings include
Bob Swoboda and wife Conchita of San Antonio, TX; Steve Swoboda and
wife Chris of Boise, ID; Renee Wilding and husband Dick of Canton,
GA; Janet Brown of Canyon Lake, TX; brother-in-law Stan Hogan of
Canyon Lake, TX; sister-in-law Eileen of St. Louis, MO, and many,
many nieces and nephews.
Gone too soon from the Swoboda
family are Dale’s daughter Julie Swoboda of St. Louis, MO; parents
Maurice and Lucille Swoboda of Washington, MO; and siblings Tom and
Joan, of St. Louis, Donald of Washington, MO, and Karen Hogan of San
Antonio, TX.
Dale’s Celebration of Life will be held in late
summer, 2025.
Donations to the Columbia Parkinson's Support
Group in memory of Dale can be mailed to 1311 Vintage Drive,
Columbia, MO 65203. Share fond memories and condolences online at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on January 31, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
After a long and
full life David L. Knight has permanently experienced a major change
of venue on Friday, January 24, 2025. Exactly where is undetermined
but he was optimistic that he might reconnect with friends and
family who preceded him and, at some point, perhaps welcome those
who survive him (hopefully long into the future).
David is
survived by his daughter, Debby Knight-Clausen and son-in-law, Ed
Clausen, grandchildren, Matthew (Laura), Brooke Gibbs, David,
great-grandson Hudson Gibbs; nephews, Reid and Clayton Marsh,
sister, Joan Marsh and brother Jim, nephews William and Stephen, as
well as many friends (this includes almost all of his law clients
who were always considered by him to be friends as well as clients)
and Sandra Knight.
His son, Dan Knight, passed from this life
on June 4, 2022. His wife, Yuening (Lily) Knight died on June 18,
2024. Dave missed them very much.
In no particular order of
importance here are some quick facts:
1. Born in Butler,
Missouri on January 22, 1937, the son of Edwin Lyle Knight and Ruth
Hopkins Knight. Graduated from Garden City, Missouri High School in
1955 in a class of fourteen students.
2. Played every sport
available for as long as possible and had some success but, to his
great disappointment, in 1956, the then MU Basketball Coach, Sparky
Stalcup, decided to not risk his coaching career on a player who was
under 6’0”! Likely a wise decision on Sparky’s part.
3.
Participated in every available speech contest and play, as well as
Boys State and Boys Nation (1954) while in High School. In Columbia
he loved performing in the Music Man with Columbia Entertainment
Company as “Charlie the Anvil Salesman”.
4. Was the first
graduate of Garden City High School to attend the University of
Missouri (so reported) and definitely the first to obtain a law
degree.
5. Was a loyal member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity and
an avid intramural participant in multiple sports and later a
dedicated supporter of MU athletics, including providing legal
services to many coaches and players (always without charge).
6. Graduated from MU School of Law with high honors (Order of
the Coif) in 1962.
7. Served three years in the United States
Army JAGC; attained the rank of Captain and tried several high
publicity capital cases. Participated in the Honor Flight in 2022.
8. First associated as an attorney with the law firm of Smith &
Lewis in Columbia, and then partnered with Hamp Ford for many years.
Thinking it unprofessional, he eschewed any form of legal
advertising.
9. Represented clients from all walks of life,
including several judges and other lawyers. However, due to Dan’s
position as Boone County Prosecutor did not handle criminal law
matters.
10. Participated in many practical jokes and loved
to laugh (at himself) or with others.
11. Apparently was a
licensed pilot, although precise details in that regard are scarce.
12. Tirelessly advocated and promoted the reading of quality
books and made presentations in the Columbia Public Schools to
encourage student readers.
13. Took great enjoyment in
“placing” books with friends when he calculated a particular read
might resonate.
14. Loved the practice of law and relished
the opportunity to be able to provide some meaningful assistance for
a client.
15. Was proud of, and relished, the many successes
and accomplishments of his family, friends and clients.
16.
Enjoyed relatively good health throughout his life including
hunting, fishing, working on the farm, and interacting with friends.
17. Is leaving with appreciation for having lived in such a
great community during interesting times and leaves with a true hope
of meeting again “on the other side”.
Private services were
conducted by the family and a Celebration of Life is planned for
Saturday, April 5, 2025, 4-6 PM at the Columbia Country Club, 2210
Country Club Dr, Columbia, MO 65201.
Condolences c/o Memorial
Funeral Home at 1217 Business Loop 70 West, Columbia, Missouri
65202. Memorial donations in Dave’s honor are suggested to: Columbia
Public Library at https://dbrl.org/giving/ways-to-give , Daniel
Boone Regional Library Foundation, P.O. Box 7113, Columbia, MO
65205, or the David Knight Beta Theta Pi Scholarship Fund in the
following ways: Send a check made payable to the Zeta Phi Society
Foundation (with David Knight in the memo line) to: 1400 Forum Blvd,
Ste 7A, PMB #501, Columbia, MO 65203 Or, make an online credit card
donation, by visiting the Zeta Phi Square Site at:
zeta-phi-society-foundation-inc-101355.square.site
Dave was
an organ donor and will live on in the recipients. His family
encourages everyone to do the same. This obituary was written by
Dave Knight and edited by his family.
Fond memories and
expressions of sympathy for the Knight family may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on February 28, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Terry Blaine
McDonald, 77, Columbia, MO, passed peacefully on 1/26/25.
Born in Oakland, CA, to Olen Albon & Vireda McDonald, Terry grew up
with strong values that guided him throughout life. He graduated
Sikeston HS-Sikeston, MO, MU-Columbia & Wash U-St. Louis.
Terry’s integrity as a dedicated FDIC bank examiner & mentor for 34
years left a lasting impact. He proudly served US Army & Army
Reserves (69-96), rising to Command Sergeant Major.
Terry was
preceded in death by parents & beloved wife, Barbara. He leaves
behind son, Shawn McDonald-Seattle, WA; daughter, Shannon Smith-San
Antonio, TX, and her husband, Aaron; grandchildren, Colin, Atticus,
and Madison; his brother, Gary McDonald (Carol); sister-in-law,
Laurie Goodfellow (Lafe); and a wide circle of extended family &
friends who deeply feel his absence.
Terry contributed to the
MU Alumni Assoc, held leadership roles in the American Legion and
the 40 & 8 veterans' organizations, and enjoyed a word-lovers’
group, the Logophiles.
Terry was a man of quiet strength,
sharp wit, and boundless kindness. He valued honesty, hard work, and
thoughtful planning, serving as a steadfast role model to his
children & countless others he mentored. His humor was dry, his
loyalty deep, and his integrity unwavering. He found happiness in
simple pleasures-good conversation, live music, beautiful sunsets &
creating meaningful memories with those he loved.
Visitation
will be 3/10/25 10-11am, service at 11am at Nunnelee Funeral Chapel
(205 N Stoddard St, Sikeston, MO); at 2pm Terry will be inurned
w/wife Barbara at Forest Hills Memorial Gardens.
On 3/12/25,
3-6pm a celebration of life will be at the American Legion 3669
Legion Ln, Columbia, MO.
Though not necessary, in lieu of
flowers, send donations to: American Legion Post 202, 3669 Legion
Lane, Columbia, MO 65201 or Boy’s State: moboysstate.org/donate
Online Extended Obit:
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/12259512
For more
information: www.nunneleefuneralchapel.com
Posted online on January 30, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Joseph Charles
“Chuck” Headley died peacefully in his sleep on January 28, 2025, at the
age of 94. He was a remarkable man; if there is such a thing as winning
at life, he did it.
Services will be on Monday, February 3,
2025, at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church with Visitation beginning at 10 AM
and Service at 11 AM. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Chuck was born in 1930 at the beginning of the Great Depression to
Joseph Henry Headley and Clara Florence Headley, he grew up in a
farmhouse without electricity or running water. Despite neither parent
advancing beyond the eighth grade, they understood the power of
education and ensured that Chuck worked hard in his one-room country
school with about a dozen students. Through hard work, encouragement
from his teachers, and a bit of luck, he earned a B.S. and M.S. from the
University of Illinois before attaining a Ph.D. in Agricultural
Economics from Purdue University.
Chuck was a respected
professor whose innovative work in pest and resource management is still
used and continues to influence the field today. A member of the ROTC,
he honored his commitment by serving in the Air Force during the Korean
War as a photo analyst for the Strategic Air Command.
In
1964, Chuck married Carol Jane Swartz of Western Springs, IL, and they
had two children. He was a loving husband, a devoted and patient father
and father-in-law, and a cherished grandfather. Chuck also left lasting
legacies at Mizzou, the University of California-Davis, and the
University of Arkansas. Even after retiring from academia, he remained
dedicated to education, running for and being elected to the Columbia
Board of Education where he served for nine years. A world full of
former students and community members felt his impact as a caring
teacher and school board member.
Chuck embodied hard work,
honor, good humor, and kindness in everything he did. He loved music and
laughter, and even in his waning days, he was known for making jokes,
creating silly songs on the fly, and could still play a song or three on
his beloved guitar. He took the family on countless road trips and
camping adventures across the US, where his children learned about
patience, geography, history, his hatred of city traffic, and how far
dad could be pushed before he pulled over. He believed in doing things
right the first time, fixing what could be fixed, and always giving his
best.
He is survived by his wife, Carol; his son, Nils
Headley, daughter-in-law Tiffany, and their two sons, Karl and Erik of
San Mateo, CA; and his daughter, Kirsten Eyles, son-in-law Matthew, and
their two children, Embrik and Thalia, who were raised in Potomac, MD.
He is also survived by his brother, Royce Headley (Joyce) of Macomb, IL,
and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in
death by his brother, Myron Headley, and his sister, Marjory Butler
(Ralph).
Chuck was too humble to permit us to say he was a
great man—but he would allow us to say that he was a good man who always
gave his best.
Those wishing to attend this service via Zoom may
follow this link: https://tinyurl.com/SALC-Headley-Funeral.
Posted online on February 01, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Lloyd Eugene
“Gene” Cunningham, 97, of Columbia passed away on Wednesday, January 29,
2025, at The Neighborhoods. A graveside service for Gene will be held
Monday, February 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Memorial Park Cemetery, 1217
Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, Missouri 65202.
Gene was born on
April 1, 1927, in Rogersville, Missouri the son of Windsor and Eula
(Robb) Cunningham. He was raised on a small dairy farm in Southwest
Missouri. He enjoyed telling stories about the fun he and his brothers
had growing up together. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was an
outstanding student, a member of the debate team and President of his
high school FFA chapter.
In March of 1949 he was united in
marriage to Katherine (Taylor) Cunningham who preceded him in death. He
served his country in the United States Navy and was stationed in Guam.
He earned his B.S. from the University of Missouri. In 1951 he bought a
farm in Boone County, a place he would call home for the rest of his
life. He raised black Angus cattle, raised crops and worked on all his
machinery. He had a 25-year career with the Department of Agriculture
where he was the Boone County Director for the A.S.C.S and later the
A.S.C.S. State Director under the administrations of Presidents Richard
Nixon and Gerald Ford. He retired after serving as an Assistant to the
Director in Washington D.C. In 1984 he ran for State Representative and
his grandchildren remember seeing their grandpa’s face on signs all
around the county. A highlight in his later life was his participation
in the Honor Flight program that took him, with other Veterans to our
nation’s Capital.
Gene is survived by his children: Connie
Browning of Columbia; Michael Cunningham of the Philippines; Rebecca
Birr of Marion, Iowa; Martin (Lisa) Cunningham of Montgomery City; one
brother: Don (Alba) Cunningham of Galena, Missouri; two sisters in law:
Sue Cunningham; Ruby Cunningham; eight grandchildren; ten
great-grandchildren and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. He was
preceded in death by his parents; wife; three brothers: Wayne; Glenn and
Merle
Memorials are suggested to the Coyote Hill Foster Care
Ministries, 1209 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO 65201.
Condolences and
fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory, 12 East
Ash St, Columbia MO 65203
George Lee Crum, 90,
died January 29, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, faith, and
family. Born October 27, 1934, in Columbia, Missouri, to Clarence H. and
Gertrude (Colbert) Crum, George devoted his life to his community and
loved ones.
George joins his late wife, Connie Y. (Warren) Crum,
in eternal rest. He leaves behind children: Michael Gorman (Mandy) of
Springfield, MO; Jonas Patterson (Andrea) of O'Fallon, IL; Janice
Patterson (David Quick) of Hallsville, MO; and Joan Patterson (Derrick
Smith) of Jefferson City, MO.
Seven grandchildren carry forward
his legacy: Terron and Tashina Gorman of Springfield, MO; Diana Hix of
St. Louis, MO; Jonas Patterson VI of Las Vegas, NV; and Aya, Bence, and
Aaliyah Patterson of O'Fallon, IL. Four great-grandchildren continue his
lineage: Zion Gorman, Adrieanna Bowdry, Damonte Bowdry, and Ryan McLeod.
His siblings Clarence Crum Jr. and Brenda K. Crum survive him, along
with his sister-in- law Brenda L. Crum and his nieces and nephews:
Timothy Crum (Tabitha), Chris Crum, Ejhlon Marks, Alicia Porter (James),
and Kaylesia Crum. Death reunites him with his parents, wife, brothers
Donald and William Leroy Crum, niece Casandra Edwards, and nephew Robert
Russell II.
After graduating from Frederick Douglass High School,
George served his country in the U.S. Army and later in the National
Guard retiring as a Staff Sergeant (SSG). He built a 30-year career with
the City of Columbia before retiring.
George enriched his
community through active membership as a Mason at the Rising Sun Lodge
#164, service as a Deacon at Carriers of the Kingdom Tabernacle Church,
and participation in the Royal Duces.
His kindness, integrity,
and tireless work ethic touched countless lives, creating a lasting
impact that will inspire generations to come.
Parker Millard
Funeral Service & Cremation in Columbia, Missouri, will host a
visitation Monday, February 10, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, followed
by a memorial service. Memorial Park Cemetery will honor his military
service during the graveside ceremony.
The family extends
heartfelt gratitude to all who shared love, prayers, and support
throughout George's life and during this time of loss. His wisdom and
strength live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew
him.
Rest in Peace, George Lee Crum. Your legacy endures.
Posted online on February 05, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Norris E. Kruse, 89
of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at
University Hospital.
A visitation for Norris will be held
Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Our Lady of
Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Drive, Columbia, Missouri 65203.
A mass of Christian burial will occur Saturday, February 8, 2025, at
11:00 AM, 903 Bernadette Drive, Columbia, Missouri 65203. An interment
will occur Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Memorial Park
Cemetery, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, Missouri 65202.
Norris was born in Rhineland, Missouri on October 10, 1935, the son of
Albert Kruse and Stella (Elsenraat) Kruse. He graduated from St. George
High School, Hermann, MO, where he was on the school’s first basketball
team. On February 20, 1960, in St. Louis, he was united in marriage to
Alice (Castelli) Kruse, who survives. He served his country in the U.S.
Army.
He was an athlete, educator and coach. His first teaching
job was at Cainsville, Missouri. He earned his master’s degree in
education from the University of Missouri. In 1965 he started at
Jefferson Junior High, Columbia, as a teacher and coach of basketball
and track. When Oakland Junior High School opened in Columbia, he
coached basketball and track and was the Athletic Director, and he
remained there until he retired. He played just about every sport at
some time in his life. He played pool, pickleball, bowling, basketball,
baseball and softball. He ran numerous marathons and played competitive
softball until the end of the 2024 season and bowled until shortly
before his passing. He and Alice enjoyed cruises and traveling with
friends and family. Together they spent many summers in Steamboat
Springs, Colorado and winters in Naples, Florida. Norris enjoyed
waterfowl hunting and was an accomplished angler. He was an avid Mizzou
and St. Louis Cardinals fan. He will be missed and remembered by many
but most importantly he will be missed by those who lovingly called him
“Papa.”
Norris is survived by his beloved wife: Alice; his son:
Mike (Robin) Kruse of Columbia; grandson: David (Jenna) Kruse of St.
Louis and their children: Carter; Garrett; Miles; granddaughter: Anne
(Kurt) Schaller of Nashville, TN; his siblings: Genelda (Alex)
Grieshaber of Hermann; Donald (Lois) Kruse of Hermann; Dennis Kruse of
Lake St. Louis; Linda Rost of Jefferson City; and a host of cousins;
nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister:
Marjorie Feagan and one brother: Glendo Kruse.
Memorials are
suggested to the St. Vincent DePaul Society in care of the funeral home.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on February 04, 2025
Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
Janet Carol (Clark)
Freie of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on February 2, 2025 in Overland
Park, Kansas after a brief illness. She was born to Mary Cleota “Tote”
and Donald Clark on May 25, 1943 and raised on the family's farms near
Dow City, Iowa. She graduated from Dow City High School, Iowa State
University (BA, English) and the University of Missouri (MS, Education).
She married Gary Freie in 1965 and, after his military service, they
settled in Columbia, Missouri. She was employed as a high school English
teacher, a computer programmer /analyst at the University of Missouri
and Computer Information Systems instructor at William Woods College.
She is survived by her daughter, Carissa Jacobs, JD, and son-in-law
Douglas Zolotor, of Kansas City, Missouri; her son, Jordan Freie, MD,
and daughter-in-law Jennifer Freie, PhD, along with their sons, Nolan
and Milo, of Creve Coeur, Missouri. She was preceded in death by her
parents; husband, Gary; their infant children, Jason and Marissa; and
sister, LaDonna Mastromatteo.
Burial near her husband and
children in Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Dunlap, Iowa will follow a private
family funeral. Janet was surrounded by books, which remained a constant
presence in her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the
Daniel Boone Regional Library Foundation of Columbia, Missouri:
https://tinyurl.com/FreieMemorial. Services entrusted to Huebner Funeral
Home in Denison, Iowa.
Posted online on
May 16, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
With sadness in our
hearts, we announce that Wyman Heath of Overland Park, KS (formerly of
Columbia, MO) passed away at age 90 on February 2nd at Homestead Memory
Care in Olathe, KS. He was born on September 17, 1934, to Pearl M. Heath
and Ima E. (Lewis) Heath in Sturgeon, MO.
Wyman is survived by
his wife, Mary Jane, sons Dennis (Laurie) and Jerry, daughter Belinda
(Brent), sister Bonita, nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and
numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by both of his
parents, four brothers, one sister, daughter Jacklyn, and son Brian.
Wyman lived a long and fulfilled life. He worked at Shelter
Insurance for nearly 43 years, retiring in January 2000. He and Jane
remained in Columbia until 2020 when they relocated to be closer to
their daughter in Knoxville, TN. Three years later, they moved back to
the Midwest and resided in Overland Park, KS.
An avid Cardinals
fan, Wyman attended opening day at Busch Stadium every year for decades.
He also loved the Mizzou Tigers, taking in basketball and football games
whenever he had the chance. He was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes
parish and served as a member of the Knights of Columbus as a volunteer.
He also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity at the local Re-Store. He
also loved playing golf, watching any movie that starred John Wayne, and
collecting antique railroad pocket watchesthe more jewels the better.
Mere words don’t seem able to accurately describe the man that his
family will dearly miss. Rest in Peace.
A private family service
will be held at a later date.
Kim Dawn
Eisterhold
November 13, 1952 — February 12, 2025
Kim Dawn
Eisterhold, 72, of Fishers, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday,
February 12, 2025 at Compassus Hospice in Indianapolis. She was born on
November 13, 1952 to Arthur and Margaret (Keller) Goebelt in Chicago,
Illinois.
Kim graduated from Stephens College in 1973 with a BA
in Education and Fashion Design. For 35 years, she worked for Commercial
Property Management firms in the Chicago area. Kim married Paul
Eisterhold on December 29, 1973. They resided in Columbia, MO, Wheeling,
IL, and Lincolnwood, IL before retiring in Fishers, IN in 2017. Kim
enjoyed gardening, sewing, home decorating, playing cards, foreign
travel and sea cruising.
She is survived by her husband, Paul
David Eisterhold; daughter, Brandy (Adam) Craig of Noblesville, IN;
grandchildren, Piper & Dexter; sister, Linda Thompson of Arizona, and
Diane (Danny) Burke of Florida; and her nephews, Rhett (Ellie) of
California, and Dan Jr. (Linda) of Florida.
In addition to her
parents, Kim was preceded in death by her nephew, Travis.
Visitation will be from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, with a memorial service at
12:00 pm, on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at Randall & Roberts Fishers
Mortuary, 12010 Allisonville Road, in Fishers. Rev. Ashley
Valentine-Derrer and Rev. Brian D. Derrer will officiate.
Memorial contributions may be made to Christ The Savior Lutheran Church,
10500 East 126th Street, Fishers, IN 46038; or Community MD Anderson
Cancer Hospital, Oncology Foundation, 7979 N. Shadeland Avenue,
Indianapolis, IN 46260; Compassus Hospice Hospital, 8450 N. Payne Road,
Indianapolis, IN 46268; or Fishers Armed Services Commission, c/o
Fishers Parks Foundation - FASC, 3 Municipal Drive, Fishers, IN 46038.
Condolences: www.randallroberts.com
Submitted by, Nilson-Millard Cremation &
Burial Center, 5611 E. St. Charles Rd.; Columbia, MO 65202
Steven
Lawrence Wallerstein Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we
announce the passing of Steven Lawrence Wallerstein, 35, of Columbia,
MO, who left us on February 28, 2025. Steven was born on November 27,
1989, in Columbia, MO, to Michael and Linda Faye (Hill) Wallerstein.
Steven is survived by his father, his brother David, his girlfriend
Shelby, her children Novalee & Isabella Taggart, aunts, uncles, cousins,
and many extended family and friends.
Steven was preceded in
death by his beloved mother, Linda, and his maternal and paternal
grandparents, Lawrence and Rose Wallerstein, and Bill and Betty Jo Hill.
A man of diverse interests and talents, Steven had a deep love for
motorcycles and firearms, which were more than hobbies to
him—they were passions that brought him joy and a sense of community. He
also had a knack for semi-professional gardening, which reflected his
patience and nurturing spirit. His family was the center of his world,
and he cherished the time spent with them, making memories that will be
forever etched in the hearts of those who knew him.
Services to
honor and celebrate Steven’s life will be held on Wednesday, March 5,
2025. at Parker-Millard Funeral Home 12 E. Ash St, Columbia, MO 65203.
Visitation from 11:00 a.m. with services at 12:00 pm, followed by
interment at Elmwood Cemetery 1900 W Liberty St, Mexico, MO 65265
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.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Harold Milton Hull, II, 77, of Columbia, MO
passed away Saturday, March 1, 2025, after a long battle with failing
health. Per his wishes, he will be cremated, and his urn will be placed
in the St. Thomas More Newman Center Columbarium.
Harold was
born, March 9 ,1947, in Columbia (at the old Noyes Hospital on the
University campus) to Harold M. and Mary Jeannette Anthony Hull. In
1965, he graduated from Maryville High School and returned to Columbia
on a basketball scholarship to play on the Freshman team at the
University of Missouri. He earned his bachelor's degree in Business and
graduated in 1969. In between semesters, he married Kathleen Tripp on
January, 28, 1970. Following one semester of law school, Harold took a
job with State Farm Insurance in the Regional Office in Columbia. The
family later moved to Kansas City, then St. Louis, returning to Columbia
in 1989. He worked for State Farm for 30 plus years, and at the age of
55, due to failing health, he took disability retirement. In his younger
years he enjoyed tennis and slow pitch softball. Later in life he
rekindled his love of trading baseball cards and memorabilia. He
collected, traded, and sold many items over the last several years.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Kathy Hull; daughters,
Christine Black and Jennifer Burke of Columbia; grandchildren, Carsyn
(Logan) Davidson, Braeden Morris, Annika Black, and Addison Burke all of
Columbia; a nephew, Curtis Ware, Jr (Jill) of Cassville, MO; great
nephew and niece, Kobhe & Greycynn Ware; niece Sheri (Tracy) Yates of
Edmond, OK; great nieces Spencer, Chandler & Kennedi Yates; and other
nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Joe Hull,
sister, Susan Hatfield, and his parents.
Memorials may be made to
The Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy or First Presbyterian Church
Maryville, MO.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeancemetery.com.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Howard Ray Eiffert,
91, of Columbia, MO, died at home on Wednesday, March 5, 2025,
surrounded by family. Howard was born on September 11, 1933, on a farm
in north Missouri outside the town of Willmathsville. The family lived
at Howard’s birthplace until moving to Downing, MO in 1942 to allow
easier access to school.
The family later moved to LaPlata, MO
and Howard graduated from LaPlata High School, in 1951. In 1953, Howard
was drafted to serve in the U.S. Army. His primary duty station was Fort
Campbell, KY where he was a member of the 11th Airborne Division until
his honorable discharge in 1955. Howard served as the clerk of his unit
and typed orders for deployments. He also served as an Airborne
instructor.
While serving at Fort Campbell, Howard spent time
off-duty in the nearby community of Clarksville, TN. It was while
stopped at a root beer stand in Clarksville, TN, during a ride on his
Harley Davidson, that Howard met the love of his life, and wife of 69
years, Carrie Lucille Collins (Lucy). They married on December 17th,
1955, and moved to Kirksville, MO. Howard attended Northeast Missouri
State University and graduated in 1959.
After graduating from
college, Howard and Lucy moved to Columbia for Howard’s new job as the
Assistant Manager of Long-Bell Lumber at the corner of Ash and 9th
Street. The job at Long-Bell proved valuable in preparing Howard for his
life-long career.
In June 1965, Howard started Boone County
Lumber Co. at 1100 Rogers Street. The wisdom and mentorship of Tom Alton
and Ray Freese were always particularly appreciated by Howard as he
started the fledgling business.
Howard supported professional
organizations such as the Mid-America Lumberman’s Association, The Home
Builder’s Association of Columbia, and the Columbia Chamber of Commerce.
Howard was a member of Twilight Lodge, Scottish Rite, Tiger Shrine
Club (Past President), and Moolah Temple in St. Louis. He was also a
member of the local Elks Lodge and a past member of the COLT Railroad
Commission for the City of Columbia.
Howard and Lucy loved
traveling and exploring by motorcycle. They’ve traveled most of the
United States, much of Canada and parts of Mexico. Being on the
motorcycle together was their greatest pleasure.
Howard is
survived by his wife of 69 years, Lucy, his three children, Brad
(Kristin) Eiffert, Columbia, Greg (Terri) Eiffert, Columbia, and Sharon
(Darryl) Ward, Centralia, MO; his grandchildren, Kelsey (Matt)
Lunceford, Centralia, MO; Tyler Ward, Hico, TX; Samantha Eiffert,
Carrboro, NC; Leah (Daniel) Lindaman, Columbia; Kayla (Sam) Knetzer,
Westminster, CO; Ryan Eiffert, Memphis, TN; William (Bianca) Eiffert,
New York, NY; Benjamin Eiffert, Columbia; and great-grand daughter,
Corinne Lindaman, Columbia. He is also survived by his brother, Rex
Eiffert, Ukiah, CA.
Howard was preceded in death by his parents,
George Lee and Pearle (Snowbarger) Eiffert, brother, Leon Warren
Eiffert, and sister Emogene Pearle Eiffert Grindstaff, and daughter
Sherry Lynn Eiffert.
There are no services planned. In lieu of
flowers, donations are suggested to the National Kidney Foundation.
The family wishes to acknowledge the care provided by The Senior
Company, Navigate Wellness, and Compassus hospice. Their professional
care allowed Howard to remain in his home until the end. They cared for
Howard and all those around him with love, support, compassion and
guidance during a difficult time.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Sandra Cheryl
Cockriel (née Harlan), surrounded by her family, passed away on March 9,
2025, in Columbia, Missouri, at the age of 89.
Sandy was born on
February 14, 1936, in Independence, Missouri, to Jocie Lucille Patton
and Chester Lee Harlan. She graduated from Central Missouri State
College with a Bachelor of Science in Education and married her beloved
husband, Irvin Wayne Cockriel, the following day, May 31, 1958. Sandy
and Irv have lived in Columbia, Missouri for nearly sixty years,
cherishing this nurturing community. They joined Memorial Baptist Church
on their first Sunday as residents and it has been a vital part of their
lives that entire time.
Sandy was a loving and supportive mother
to Steven, Mark, and Julie. She taught home economics at David H.
Hickman High School and later earned a Master of Education from the
University of Missouri. For 16 years, Sandy served as a guidance
counselor at Rock Bridge High School, where she became known as a
counselor who genuinely cared. She devoted her life to God, her family,
and her community, including her membership and service in the
Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.). Sandy was well-known
for her delicious cinnamon rolls, which she generously shared with
others.
Sandy was preceded in death by her sister, Pat Robertson
(Gary). She is survived by her sister, Kathy Penny (Jim). Sandy is
lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Irvin Cockriel; her sons,
Steven Cockriel (Danna) and Mark Cockriel (Cynthia); and her daughter,
Julie Sanders (Riley). She was a caring and supportive grandmother to
Amanda Jane Jones (née Cockriel), Samuel Cockriel, Will Cockriel, Tim
Cockriel, Madeline Cockriel, William Sanders, and Rachel Sanders.
Additionally, Sandy was a great-grandmother to ten, with another on the
way.
Rather than sending flowers, please consider contributing to
the Sandra Harlan Cockriel Scholarship Endowment through the University
of Central Missouri Alumni Foundation (UCM Alumni Foundation, PO Box
800, Warrensburg, MO 64093; or online at
ucmfoundation.org/give/in-memory with note that the donation is in
memory of Sandra Harlan Cockriel). Sandy established this scholarship in
2008 to support graduating high school seniors who intend to pursue a
degree in teacher education at UCM.
Visitation is set for
Saturday, April 12th, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at
11:00 a.m., at Memorial Baptist Church, 1634 Paris Road, Columbia,
Missouri.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral
Service and Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203
Mary Belle
McDonald, 86, our beloved mother, passed away peacefully on Saturday,
March 15, 2025, with her loving family by her side.
She was born
on July 27, 1938, in Keachie, Louisiana, to Theodore P. and Mary Belle
McClure. She accepted Christ at a young age at Good Hope Baptist Church.
Growing up in a close-knit family, she loved cooking with her mother and
was able to prepare a complete meal by the age of eight. She enjoyed
riding the train in front of her house with her sister Rubye Helen into
the big city of Shreveport and attended school taught by her older
sister, El Marie. Mary graduated with honors from Logansport High School
and continued her education at Southern University, a historically Black
College and University in Baton Rouge, LA. While attending Southern, she
became a lifelong member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Beta Psi
Chapter. She received the prestigious National Carnation Award and was
featured in Ebony Magazine. She earned a Master’s in Nutrition and
Dietetics from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, IA. In 1962, she
married the love of her life, Chester McDonald, and enjoyed nearly 59
years together until his passing in 2021. They were blessed with two
daughters from this union.
Mary was the consummate professional
and champion for higher education, as the third African American
professor at the University of Missouri. She was pivotal in establishing
Mizzou's groundbreaking Nutrition and Dietetics program, which developed
generations of nutrition professionals and industry leaders nationwide.
Commemorating her decades of service, the department established the
Mary B. McDonald Dietetics Conference Room named in her honor.
Additionally, she served on the American Dietetic Association National
Board of Directors and Accreditation Committee, where she earned the
prestigious Medallion Award. Over the years, she opened her home and
heart to countless college students, serving as a caring mentor,
counselor, and friend. On May 8, 1976, Mary became a proud charter
member of the most gracious ladies of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,
Inc. Kappa Chi Omega Chapter in Columbia, MO.
With a deep and
abiding faith in God, Mary was an active member of the historic Second
Missionary Baptist Church for over 50 years, serving on various
auxiliaries such as the A.J. Abbington Mission Circle, co-chair of
Christian Education, and Director of Vacation Bible School. She also
dedicated herself to serving her community and uplifting humanity as a
lifetime member of the NAACP, Church Women United, and the Rainbow
Diamond Kiwanis Club. Mary helped establish the first Meals-on-Wheels
program in Columbia to provide healthy and nutritious meals for senior
citizens and people with disabilities.
Mary leaves a legacy of
love and kindness as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and
great-grandmother. She is survived by her devoted daughters, Dr. Alisa
McDonald-Warren of St. Louis and Carla Johnson (David) of Columbia, and
her sister, Rubye Helen Jackson of Shreveport, Louisiana. Her
grandchildren include Caitlyn Johnson, Harold “Trey” Warren III, Haleigh
Jones, and Reece Warren. Her great-grandchildren, Tristin
Cowgill-Warren, Cole Jones, and Kamdyn Johnson, also survived her.
She was preceded in death by her father, Theodore P. McClure;
mother, Mary Belle McClure; sisters, El Marie Young and Thelma Wells;
brother, Theodore McClure III; husband, Chester McDonald; and grandson,
Douglas Johnson.
A public viewing will be held on Saturday, March
22, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Second Missionary Baptist Church, 407 E.
Broadway, Columbia, MO. A Homegoing Service will follow at 11:00 a.m.
The Interment will be at Memorial Park Cemetery, 1217 Business Loop West
and will conclude with a Repast at Second Baptist Church.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service
and Crematory, located at 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO.
Parker-Millard will receive flowers and acknowledgments. Condolences may
be left online at
www.parkermillard.com.
Owen
Jackson, Sept. 5, 1935 — March 17, 2025
Courtesy of the family Mar
26, 2025
Ellis Owen Jackson,
Jr. died March 17, 2025, at the age of 89 in Tempe, Arizona. Owen was
born September 5, 1935, in Springfield, Missouri, the son of Hester
Haymes Jackson and Ellis Owen Jackson, Sr.
Owen grew up in
Marshfield, MO, and graduated from Marshfield High School. He earned a
B.S. degree in Education from Southwest Missouri State College in
Springfield and M.S. and EdD degrees in Education from the University of
Missouri, Columbia.
Owen married Patricia Jane Aslin on August 9,
1964, at The First Baptist Church in Columbia, Missouri.
Owen’s
professional career spanned the years from 1957 to 2000. During those
years he was a teacher and/or principal in the Missouri cities of
Conway, Appleton City, North Kansas City and Brentwood.
In 1977
he was named Assistant Superintendent of schools in House Springs,
Missouri. In June 1979 he became Assistant Superintendent of Elementary
Education in the Columbia Public Schools, a position he held until he
retired in 1990.
Following his public school experience, Owen
began a second career as a professor of education at Columbia College in
Columbia, Missouri. There he was able to transfer his practical
experience in public education into the training of future teachers.
Owen retired a second time in 2000. In retirement Owen served the
community in many ways. He was a member of the Education Committee of
the United Way, held several offices in the Host Lions Club, and in the
Boone County Unit of the Retired Teachers Association.
He served
several years as the state treasurer for the Missouri Retired Teachers
Association. Owen was a long time driver for Meals on Wheels. The Boone
County Historical Society was another area of interest, where he served
as a member of the Board of Directors as well as a docent in the Museum.
As a member of the Missouri United Methodist Church since 1979, Owen
served in several leadership capacities, including the Administrative
Board, the Council of Ministries, and Chairman of the MUMC Foundation.
Owen loved watching his children, David and Jane, participate in
their many activities. From the early years of Daniel Boone Little
League through activities and sports at Rock Bridge H.S. and Westminster
College, he could always find the time to be there to cheer them on.
In retirement Owen and Pat traveled extensively. Europe, Australia
and New Zealand, South America and Asia as well as the U.S. kept their
interests high and suitcases packed. They especially enjoyed spending
time in Hawaii and Arizona during winters.
Owen is survived by
his wife Pat and his daughter Jane of Tempe, Arizona, as well as many
other family members who will miss him. Owen was preceded in death by
his father Ellis, his mother Hester, and his son David.
A
celebration of Owen’s life will be held May 7th, 2025 at the Missouri
United Methodist Church, 204 S. 9th St. Columbia, MO 65201. Visitation
at 1:30 p.m. in the Connector, service beginning at 2:00 p.m. in the
Chapel.
Submitted
by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Geraldine
Marie “Gerri” Shelton, 83, of Columbia passed away of Monday, March 17,
2025 at her home.
Services for Gerri will take place on Monday, March
24, 2025, at Memorial Funeral Home with Visitation beginning at 1:00 PM
and the Funeral Service at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow in Memorial Park
Cemetery.
Gerri was born on March 9, 1942, in St. Louis,
Missouri, the daughter of Paul Gifford and Ruth (Goldstein) Gifford. She
was raised in Farmington, Missouri and attend Columbia College. On April
6, 1963, in she was united in marriage to Norman Shelton who preceded
her in death last October.
Gerri was a gifted organizer! She
organized promotional events for her various employers; being the first
to arrive and the last to leave. She would organize gifts, flowers and
food deliveries for any friend in need. She was past president of the
Women’s Auxiliary where she put her special touch on all their important
events. She loved taking care of others especially her husband Norman in
his last months.
Gerri is survived by one son: Greg (Marsha)
Shelton; one granddaughter: Ashley (Mike) Hansen; one grandson: Ethan
Mackey; two great grandchildren: Caden Hansen; Brody Hansen; two
brothers-in-law: Sam (Beverly) Shelton; Brian Shelton; one
sister-in-law: Ruby Gifford and a host of nieces and nephews. She was
preceded in death by her parents; her husband and one brother: Jim
Gifford.
Memorial contributions may be made to Caring Hearts and
Hands of Columbia, or the American Cancer Society in care of the funeral
home.
Submitted by, Bach-Yager
Funeral Chapel, 1610 North Garth Avenue, Columbia MO 65202
Robert Dale
Chapman, 89, of Centralia passed away March 20, 2025, at home surrounded
by his loving family and dog.
Chappy was born January 10, 1936,
to the late Horace and Edna (Ketchum) Chapman in Benton City, Missouri.
He graduated from San Lorenzo High School in Ashland, California. In
1989 he married Marilyn Lindsey. Bob was employed with the University of
Missouri for over 30 years as a carpenter and painter.
A devoted
husband, beloved father, cherished friend, and steadfast Christian has
gone to his eternal home. A man of remarkable character, Robert cared
deeply for his wife, showering her with unwavering love and devotion.
His family and friends were the center of his world. Robert walked with
Christ, embodying kindness and a servant’s heart, always putting love
first in his beliefs and values.
Robert, a man of many talents
and joys. He was a skilled painter, bowler, handyman, bicyclist, master
angler. In his leisure he appreciated gardening, watching sports, and
doing puzzles with his wife – continuing traditions that brought him and
his loved ones closer together. His warmth and presence touched
countless lives, and his legacy will forever remain in the hearts of
those he loved “to the moon and back.”
He is survived by his
wife, Marilyn; children, Marlena Crowe, Lisa (James) Scroggins, Bobby
Chapman, Becky (Ed) Porter, Ryan (Hermela) Chapman, Duane (Alisa) Bittle
and Angie (Derek) Ketchum; 19 grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Chappy was also preceded in death by his 4 brothers, Fred, Ted,
Kenneth and Phillip.
Family and friends will gather for a time
of remembrance at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel on Sunday, March 23, 2025,
from 2:00-3:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 3 pm.
“Live, Laugh, Love”
Memorial contributions can be made to: St.
Jude Children's Research Hospital, 680 Craig Rd #300, St. Louis, MO
63141.
Submitted by, Meierhoffer Funeral
Home & Crematory, 5005 Frederick Ave, Suite A, St Joseph MO 64506
Nancy Lumb, 78,
St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Sunday, March 23, 2025.
She was
born May 25, 1946 in Texarkana, Arkansas to Boyd “Larry” and Ruth
(Westerfield) Embrey. Nancy earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work
from the University of Missouri.
Nancy married Ronald Eugene Lumb
on September 3, 1966. He survives of the home.
She and Ron
co-owned and operated Ron Lumb’s TLC tree service for 20 years.
Nancy was a longtime member of Ashland United Methodist Church and also
was active in the St. Joseph Compass Club.
To say Nancy enjoyed
reading would be an understatement. She was a voracious reader, mostly
of mysteries. The local libraries knew her well and trusted her reviews
of new books. She also enjoyed playing in bridge clubs.
A loving
wife, mother, and grandmother, Nancy also was one of the “neighborhood
moms” who watched over others’ children as well as their own.
She
was preceded in death by her parents.
Survivors include her
husband of 58 years, Ron; sons, Jeffrey Lumb (Lisa) and William “Bill”
Lumb (Bryna); grandchildren Felicia, Kira, and Cassie Lumb; sisters,
Fran Gremaud and Martha Embrey; brothers- and sisters-in-law, John and
Janice Lumb, and Kenny and Kathy Lumb; nieces and nephews, Seth, Adam,
Sara, Brian, Angie, and Jana.
Farewell Services 10:00 A.M.
Saturday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family will gather
with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home &
Crematory. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s
Association. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.
Posted online on March 31, 2025
Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
We are deeply
saddened to share that Ray Gardi of Columbia, Missouri, departed this
life on March 25, 2025. Ray was a kind and gentle man who enriched the
lives of many with his warmth, compassion, and caring nature. He was a
civil engineer whose career included operating his own businesses in the
UK and US and serving as an adjuster for Shelter Insurance Company. He
enjoyed reading, home improvement projects, physical fitness activities,
and devoting himself to caring for his entire family.
He is
survived by his adored wife Lisa and his cherished adult children, son
Aram and daughter Cheyenne. He is also survived by many beloved friends
and family members in Kurdistan, Europe, and the United States. Ray
leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and inspiration that will endure
in the hearts of all who knew him.
A funeral service to honor
Ray’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 4, at Parker-Millard
Funeral Home on 12 East Ash Street in Columbia, Missouri.
Posted online on April 03, 2025
Published in
Columbia Daily Tribune
Robert Michael “Bob”
Bruns, 80, died peacefully at his home in Ashland, MO on April 1, 2025.
He was born on October 12, 1944, in St. Louis, MO to Isabelle and
Bernard Bruns, who preceded him in death as well as five siblings: Bud
Bruns, Mary Jane Bruns Hellman, Don Bruns, Joe Bruns, Patty Bruns Wyble
and daughter Elizabeth Bruns Costello.
Bob is survived by wife
Sherry Wyble Bruns, sister Susan Bruns Bisch, four children: Robert
Bruns, Jr. (Carla Durham), Jennifer Bruns Forck (Brian Forck), Brian
Bruns and Jason Younger, twenty grandchildren: Daniel, Andy, Rhiann,
Scott, Shane, Josh, Anthony, Jackie, Alivia, Emily, Chuck, Michael,
Markus, Natalie, Izzy, Matthew, Andrew, Austin, Lukas and Briley and
fifteen great-grandchildren: Hunter, Isaiah, Grant, Logan, Serenity,
Lillie, Willow, Carter, Tobias, Luella, Emberly, Milo, Briella, Benjamin
and Wesley.
Bob was a beloved husband, father, brother, papa and
friend to all who knew him. He was a proud member of the International
Bricklayers Union, Local Chapter 15 for over fifty years. He enjoyed
camping, fishing, quail hunting, barbecuing, playing flag football and
giving hayrides. One of his favorite hobbies was spending time with his
children and grandchildren tubing and camping on the Osage River.
Funeral services honoring Bob’s life will be held at 2:00 PM,
Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Robinson-Yager Funeral Home in Ashland, MO
with Deacon Jim Leyden officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 PM
Sunday afternoon until the service time. Interment will follow the
funeral at New Salem Cemetery in Ashland, MO.
Memorial
contributions are suggested to Habitat for Humanity, 1906 Monroe St.,
Columbia, MO 65201.
Condolences may be shared at
www.robinsonyagerfh.com.
Robinson-Yager Funeral Home is honored
to serve Bob’s family.
Posted online on July 25, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Most
recently a resident of Bruce, Wisconsin, and Boardman, Oregon, and
previously of Columbia, Missouri, Robert died unexpectedly on April 5 in
Boardman, Oregon. He was born in Sioux City, Iowa, to Lee Edward
Sappington and Dorothy Hagemann Sappington.
Bob moved to Columbia
in 1979, where he completed his undergraduate degree. He went on to earn
a master’s degree in Information Technology while working for the
University of Missouri System IT. He later worked for MU Campus
Computing. After 17 years at MU, Bob provided computer support to local
businesses in Columbia and the surrounding area for many years.
Those who knew Bob will remember his quick wit and sense of humor. He
was proud of his children and grandchildren, their talents, and
accomplishments. Bob was happiest outdoors. His passions included fly
fishing, upland bird and deer hunting, shooting sports, and his beloved
bird dogs. These pursuits were at his core and brought him great
pleasure. In January, he found new joy in ice fishing.
Bob is
survived by his wife of 44 years, Harriett Green-Sappington of Boardman,
Oregon; his son, Michael Edward Sappington (Alessandra) of Augsburg,
Germany; and his daughter, Erin Elizabeth Green (Andrei) of Boardman,
Oregon. He is also survived by grandchildren Nicholas Sappington of
Augsburg, Germany, and Harper, Callum, and Annie Krebs of Boardman,
Oregon. His grandchildren share memories of fishing, early morning
pancakes, silly jokes, and laughter with Grampa Bob.
Additional
survivors include his sisters, Nancy Sappington of Eureka, Missouri, and
Peggy Sappington of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas; his aunt, Vera Ellen
Sappington of Glen Carbon, Illinois; brothers-in-law Phil Green (Linda)
of Jefferson City, Missouri, and Keith Green (Claudia) of Allach,
Germany; and nine nieces and nephews.
Please celebrate Bob’s life
by enjoying a long walk in nature, feeling the sun on your face, and
noticing the grace of a bird in flight.
Memorial donations may be
directed to the Boone County 4-H Shooting Sports Fund (#R66582) at
https://www.midwayusafoundation.org/team-profile/?id=R66582, a youth
shooting club in your area, the Epilepsy Foundation or the American
Heart Association.
Submitted
by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12
E. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203
Randy Breuer, 70,
of Columbia, Missouri, passed away at home on April 7, 2025, surrounded
by the family he cherished. Born on May 31, 1954, in Springfield,
Missouri, Randy then grew up in Jefferson City, Missouri. He lived a
life marked by kindness and quiet joys.
Randy worked for many
years as a customer service manager at O’Reilly Auto Parts, a role
perfectly suited to his warm personality and love for connecting with
people. A proud 23-year member of Alcoholics Anonymous lived their motto
of "one day at a time" with strength and resilience.
An
outdoorsman at heart, Randy found joy in the simple pleasures— tanning
while mowing his land, sweet tea on sunny days, jammin' out to '70s
classic rock, and cheering on his beloved KC Chiefs.
He had a
special bond with his granddaughter Quinleigh, sharing a love of all
things sunshine, summertime, and swimming. Also, as a dog lover, he was
rarely without a four-legged companion by his side.
Randy is
survived by his daughter, Breanna Crowder (Brian) of Columbia, Missouri;
his precious granddaughter, Quinleigh; his brother, Rod Breuer (Donna)
of Little Rock, Arkansas; and his sister, Rhonda Lockhart (Don) of
Kralendijk, Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean. He also leaves behind Dave
Stoerker, his AA sponsor and dear friend of over 40 years.
He was
preceded in death by his father, Coy L. Breuer, and his mother, Ruby
Irene Breuer (née Wycoff).
A private committal will be held at
Hawthorn Memorial Gardens in Jefferson City, Missouri at a later date.
Randy’s legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty will live on in those
who knew him.
Fly High, our Free Bird!
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Jessie Raymond
Roberson of Columbia, Raymond to his friends and family, passed away
peacefully on April 10, 2025. He was born April 4, 1921 on a farm
outside Holliday, Missouri to Oscar and Blanche Roberson, the 10th of
their 11 children. He spent most of his youth in Moberly, Missouri
graduating from Moberly Junior College. It was in Moberly where he met
and eventually married Opal Belle Forrest on October 18, 1941. They were
married over 72 years until Opal’s passing in 2013.
Raymond
enlisted in the United States Navy and served in the South Pacific
during World War II. After the war he returned to Moberly and attended
the University of Missouri – Columbia through the GI Bill. He hitchhiked
the thirty miles to Columbia every day he had class and to his
recollection only had one day where he didn’t get a ride! He graduated
with a degree in accounting. He spent most of his working life at
Missouri Farmers Association where he served for over 30 years, many of
those years as head of the Accounting Department. Raymond also served as
a bi-vocational preacher spending his weekends and vacations in various
churches around mid-Missouri. His longest tenures were with Salem
Baptist Church outside Paris, Missouri and Perche Baptist Church outside
Clark, Missouri.
Raymond was a hard worker. Many days would see
him come home from work for supper and after watching the news he would
return to work through the evenings. When he was home, he always had a
project of some sort, building shelves, furniture, working on the house.
His children learned early how to find the tools he needed! He was a
lifelong Missouri Tiger football and basketball fan and spent many hours
cheering for the home team.
Raymond was preceded in death by his
parents Oscar and Blanche, his wife Opal, 5 brothers – Chris, Kay,
Denzil Otis and Lester and five sisters Gladys, Elva, Helen, Mae and
Glessie.
He is survived by four children, Bruce (Linda) Roberson,
Daniel Roberson, Patty (Kent) Russell, and David (Lynn) Roberson, 6
grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren with one more due soon.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 15,
2025 with a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217
Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO. Burial with Military Honors will
follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.
The family wishes to thank the
staff at the Harry S Truman VA Community Living Center for their
kindness and care for Raymond during the last few years of his life. In
lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Community Living
Center. Donations may be sent to Ron Graves, Chief CDCE, Truman VA
Hospital, 800 Hospital Dr., Columbia MO. 65201. In the memo field please
put: In memory of Jessie Raymond Roberson.
Posted online on April 23, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
John
Earl Hewett, age 88, of Storm Lake, Iowa, previously of Columbia,
Missouri, died April 15, 2025 at Accura HealthCare in Aurelia, Iowa.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 11:00
a.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Columbia, Missouri. Family will
receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu of
flowers, memorials may be directed to Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1600
W. Rollins Road, Columbia, MO 65203. The Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home
in Storm Lake is in charge of the arrangements.
John was born
February 20, 1937 to John and Marion (Schaible) Hewett in Fairfield,
Iowa. From a young age, John loved farming. He attended school in
Fairfield, graduating in 1954. He went on to attend Parsons College,
graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1958 with a degree in mathematics. John
taught mathematics at Monroe High School for two years. He then obtained
his master’s degree in mathematics and doctorate in mathematics with a
concentration in statistics from the University of Iowa. John then
worked as a professor at the University of Missouri from 1965 until his
retirement on September 1, 2000, earning the title of Professor
Emeritus. During his career, John served as Chair of the Department of
Statistics from 1983 to 1989, was the founding editor of “Stats”
Magazine, and was awarded the honorary rank of Fellow from the American
Statistical Association. He was also a recipient of the Arthritis Health
Professions Association Lifetime Achievement Award. John was a member of
Kiwanis for a time and was actively involved at Trinity Presbyterian
Church as an Elder and receiving treasurer.
On February 20, 1960,
John was united in marriage to Thelma Ongna in Fairfield. They were
blessed with three children: Kris, John, and Jim. John loved being a
father. He could be found coaching his children’s sports teams, taking
his family on camping trips and enjoying some friendly competition in
family ping-pong matches.
John lived an active lifestyle. He
enjoyed running, playing softball, basketball, and golfing. In later
years, John enjoyed bowling, playing bridge, and traveling with Thelma.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Left to
cherish John’s memory include his beloved wife, Thelma Hewett of Storm
Lake, Iowa; children: Kris (Phil) McEuen of Shelbyville, Illinois; John
(Lauri) Hewett of Red Oak, Iowa; Jim (Stacie) Hewett of Storm Lake,
Iowa; grandchildren: Marsha (Zachary) Friedrich of Windsor, Illinois;
Clay (Paige) Marsland of St. Louis, Missouri; Dakota Marsland of
Windsor, Illinois; Ethan, Madison, and Grayson Hewett of Red Oak, Iowa;
Courtney (Robbie) Terry and Jordan (Kodey) Pederson of Aurelia, Iowa;
great-grandchildren: Emilia Friedrich; Gwendolyn Terry; siblings-in-law:
Jean Hewett of Cedar Falls, Iowa; Wayne Reimes of Gibbsville, Wisconsin;
Lois (Jerry) Faulkner of Naples, Florida; Linda Daane of Oostburg,
Wisconsin; along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was
preceded in death by his parents: John and Marion Hewett; brother:
Gilbert Hewett; parents-in-law: William and Wilma Ongna; and
siblings-in-law: Nelda and Allen Westerbeke; Muriel Reimes; and Don
Daane.
Posted online on April 23,
2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Shirley Jo Turner
Taylor
9/26/35 - 4/16/25
Daughter, wife, mother,
grandmother and great grandmother
Preceded in death by her
parents, siblings, husband, and in-laws.
She was born In Macon
County and raised in Shelby County, Missouri, graduating from Clarence
High School in 1953. She married Wayne Taylor (deceased) in 1953 and
celebrated 62 years with him. She and Wayne moved to Columbia, Missouri
in 1963 to work and raise their three daughters - Deborah Fischgrabe
(Steven), Karen Schnetzler (Bob), and Tammi Cook (Jeff). Shirley worked
the majority of her career with Columbia Public Schools where she served
as the secretary to the Director of Food Services.
Her
grandchildren included Joel Fischgrabe, Katelyn (Fischgrabe)
Christianson (Liv), Ashley Schnetzler, Andrea Schnetzler, Amy
(Schnetzler) Campbell (Sean), Cody Cook (Elizabeth), and Madison Cook.
She was blessed with four great grandchildren - Franklin
Christianson, Savannah Campbell, Wyatt Cook and Addison Cook.
She
resided at Ever True Lenoir Woods in Columbia, Missouri until her death.
Her life was a testament to letting others see Christ through her.
She was a long-time member of Memorial Baptist Church where she taught
Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, assisted with junior choir, and
cooked meals at Camp Cedar Crest for several weeks each summer. She, and
husband, Wayne, chaperoned the youth group on choir trips, worked on
mission projects with the church they attended while wintering in south
Texas, and volunteered with the National Park Service at Grand Teton
National Park for several years after retirement.
Although
dementia stole several years from Shirley, she never lost her love and
kindness toward others. She loved to sing and retained the words to many
old hymns in her heart til God called her home.
An additional
noteworthy accomplishment was her gift of cooking and her willingness to
share her table with all that visited her throughout her life. She never
got flustered and could make a gourmet meal at the drop of a hat. Her
homemade rolls and cinnamon rolls were the best!
Memorials may be
made in her honor to Samaritan’s Purse Ministries or the Alzheimer’s
Foundation.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Funeral Home and Crematory,
14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin MO 63011
Thomas O. McCarthy
August 3, 1947 - May 2, 2025
Thomas O. (Mack)
McCarthy -- former managing partner of the McMahon Berger labor &
management law firm -- passed away peacefully on May 2 at the age of 77
in Town and Country, Missouri, where he and his beloved wife Sharon
raised their family and lived out their marriage. Especially in the past
year, he faced his cancer diagnosis with unwavering determination and
bravery, wanting to extend his time with Sharon and their precious
children and grandchildren who adored him. His generosity and devotion
to his family was extraordinary. To celebrate their 50th wedding
anniversary a year ago, Mack and Sharon treated their kids and grandkids
to a trip of a lifetime to Hawaii, where they had honeymooned in 1974
and later celebrated their 25th anniversary.
Mack joined the law
firm in 1974 and became managing partner for an impressive 25 years
until his retirement in 2021. He was respected and loved by lawyers and
clients alike, and he cared about all of them. Routinely chosen on lists
of "Best Lawyers in America" and "Super Lawyers of St. Louis," Mack
represented clients in federal, state, and administrative courts
throughout the country. He taught labor relations at Washington
University and was a frequent speaker on labor and employment law issues
at seminars and conferences.
Others sought his advice, which led
him to serve on many boards, including BJC Hospital, Missouri Baptist
Hospital, Ukraine Baptist Theological Seminary, and the Humane Society.
He loved God and his church family, investing much time serving as
chairman of deacons, trustees, finance, personnel committees, and the
Administrative Leadership Team at the First Baptist Church of Ellisville
and Fellowship of Wildwood. He taught high school boys in Sunday school
for many years.
Mack and his twin brother Jack were born on Aug.
3, 1947, in Denver, Colorado, where his father worked after serving in
World War II. Six months later, they moved back to their mother's family
farm near Boonville, Missouri. The twins began their formal education in
a one-room school house with no running water but with outhouses and a
nearby corral for students who rode horses to school. They helped their
father put up hay, milk cows by hand, and other chores, while both moved
through education paths that led to careers as attorneys.
After
earning an electrical engineering degree (cum laude) at the University
of Missouri at Columbia, Mack stayed to add a law degree and to court
Columbia's Sharon Neiger, the love of his life.
Mack served in
the Army and Air Force Reserves. A high school football and baseball
athlete, he loved pickup basketball as an adult, and played on church
baseball and softball teams, as well as enjoying tennis, skiing, and
hunting. He was an avid reader, especially of American history. But in
reviewing snapshots this week, family members noticed that nothing made
Mack's eyes light up like spending time with his farflung grandchildren
of North Carolina and Texas.
Mack's life earned a courtroom
lawyer's closing summation that it was lived with faithfulness, loyalty,
devotion, generosity, and integrity.
Survivors include Mack's
wife Sharon; daughters Jennifer (Jeremy) Kindy of North Carolina and
Julianne (Linden) Heldt of Texas; grandchildren Daniel, Timothy, and
Joel Kindy, and Payton, Brooks, and Ainsley Heldt; and brother Jack
McCarthy of Kansas City. He was preceded in death by his father Thomas
Elvin McCarthy and mother Mary Edna Davis McCarthy.
Visitation
will be 4-8 p.m. on Thursday May 15 at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and
Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011.
The funeral
service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday May 16 at the Fellowship of
Wildwood, 17770 Mueller Road, Wildwood, MO 63038.
Graveside
service and burial will be at 4 p.m. on Friday May 16 at the Walnut
Grove Cemetery, 1006 Locust Street, Boonville, MO 65233.
In
loving memory of Mack, donations may be made to Fellowship of Wildwood
or make checks payable to Ukraine Partnership Foundation (Ukraine
Baptist Theological Seminary) P.O. Box 671, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0671.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Charles Dean
Burchett, 68, passed away on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. He was born in
Wichita, KS to the late Robert Burchett and the late JoAnn (Hahn)
Burchett on July 13, 1956. Charles married Debbie Burchett on April 14,
1978, and she preceded him in death on September 15, 2011.
Charles grew up in Boonville, MO and lived most of his life in Columbia,
MO until he retired from the VA hospital and moved to the lake. He
enjoyed taking his boat out, going to car shows, BBQing, and watching
his grandchildren play baseball.
He will be deeply missed by his
daughter, Deana Holmes (Mike); significant other, Sandra Williams;
sister, Blendia Humphrey (Larry); and grandchildren, Logan and Blake
Holmes.
A visitation will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April
29, 2025, at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, MO. Following the
visitation will be a graveside service at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April
29, 2025, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia, MO.
Posted online on May 05, 2025
Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
Emma “Kathleen”
Klemme, 92, of Columbia, passed away on Saturday, May 3, 2025, after a
short but courageous battle with colon cancer at home with her loving
family by her side.
Kathleen was born in Wilton, Missouri on
October 31, 1932, to Derby and Ida (Sapp) McDow. On September 1, 1951,
she married Paul “PK” Klemme in Harrison, Arkansas. He passed away on
June 26, 1982, after 30 years of marriage.
She loved her family
unconditionally, spending time with them whenever possible. She was a
beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt.
Kathleen was also a loyal and devoted friend to many, young and old. Her
words of advice were always wise, cautious and well thought out.
Kathleen is survived by a daughter, Paula Griffin (Carl) and son,
Jeffrey Klemme (Kathy); five grandchildren, Hailey, Rachel, Jason, Ross
and Kayla; and seven great grandchildren. Also surviving is a sister
Linda Cunningham (Richard) and numerous nieces and nephews.
She
was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother, Marvin McDow and
grandson, Joseph Klemme.
Visitation will be from 1:00 – 2:30
p.m., Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at Robinson-Yager Funeral Home with the
funeral service beginning at 2:30 p.m. Burial will follow the service at
Frieden’s Cemetery, Hartsburg, Missouri.
Memorial contributions
are suggested to Frieden’s Cemetery or New Salem Cemetery.
Robinson-Yager Funeral Home is honored to serve the Klemme Family.
Condolences may be shared at www.robinsonyager.com.
Posted online on May 07, 2025
Published in
Columbia Daily Tribune
Elinor “Faye” Baskett
Hayes of Columbia, MO passed away peacefully at her home on May 6, 2025.
Faye, known lovingly by her family and friends, was born on July 6,
1943, and lived a life full of fun, love, kindness, and devotion to her
family. Her door was always open, and her warmth and generosity will be
deeply missed. Her family requests that she be remembered for the joy
she brought to the world and not by the sadness of her passing.
Faye leaves behind six children: Kim (Danny) Grant, Gena (Brett) Patton,
Joe (Laura) Hayes, Amie (Mike) Hollinger Niemeyer, Kati Grant (Mike
Watson) (all of Columbia, MO), and Staci (Brad) Henks of Lee’s Summit,
MO. Her legacy lives on through her 20 grandchildren: Matt, Steve, and
Emily Grant, Lindsey Mueller, Michael, Heather, Brandon, and Rachel
Henks, Taylor Wordsworth, and Bennett Patton, Ali Noordsy, Taylor
Tungesvik, Caitlin Hayes, Lexie Darrough, Anna Hollinger, Kerstie and
Hayden Niemeyer, Vera, Ella, and Luke Grant. She is also survived by 17
great-grandchildren, two sisters, and many nieces, nephews, extended
family members and friends who loved her dearly.
Faye was
preceded in death by her loving husband, Jerry Hayes; her parents,
Charles and Vera Baskett; her in-laws, Robert and Georgena Hayes of
Edina, MO; as well as her son-in-law Richard Hollinger and grandson Evan
Hollinger, both of Columbia, MO.
Faye’s family was her heart. Her
nurturing, positive spirit, and unwavering love left an indelible mark
on everyone who was fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will
forever be cherished by all those whose lives she touched, and her
legacy will continue through the generations she leaves behind. The
songs she sang and the memories she created will forever make us smile.
Per her request, there will not be a service. Memorial contributions
may be sent to Compassus Hospice Care, 303 N Keene St Suite 306,
Columbia, MO 65201.
Published by
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin MO,
on May 11, 2025.
Patricia (Pat) Ann
Spangler (nee Schmidt), aged 77, of St. Charles County, entered into
eternal peace on May 9, 2025. Born in St. Louis, MO on February 28,
1948, Pat is preceded in death by her parents Arthur and Florence
Schmidt, and by her husband James Spangler III. She is survived by her
sons James Spangler IV (Jeannie) and Tom Spangler (Melissa), cherished
granddaughter Morgan, siblings Tom Schmidt (Vicki), Kurt Schmidt
(Karen), and Robyn Roehl (Russ), along with her many family and friends.
After graduating from Stephens College, Pat and Jay married in 1972,
enjoying 51 years of marriage. Having taught elementary school in St.
Louis and New Orleans, Pat’s commitment to fostering a nurturing space
for children to learn and grow would serve as an early example of living
her life dedicated to love and service. Pat would also later help run
the family business, A.E. Schmidt Billiards. As a daughter, wife,
mother, sister, and friend, Pat always gave of herself to those in her
life, often being the first person to encourage, to support, to guide,
and to love without condition or reserve. Her legacy shines on in how
her family and friends show up to love and support one another.
During the early years of their marriage, Pat and Jay lived in various
parts of the country, eventually settling in St. Louis, raising James
and Tom. Of the many cities they live in, New Orleans always held a
special place in Pat’s heart. Even in her final season of life, Pat
enjoyed recalling memories of Mardi Gras seasons past, as well as
cherished memories and traditions with loved ones. Pat’s sharp sense of
humor, gentle hand of guidance, and selfless love will be missed by each
of the lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be
made in Pat’s honor to The Michael J Fox Foundation, whose mission is to
find a cure for Parkinson’s.
Services: Visitation at Schrader
Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Rd, Ballwin on Saturday,
June 7 from 3pm until time of service at 4pm.
Interment private.
Marshall Lee Morgan
January 28, 1955
– May 11, 2025
Obituary of Marshall Lee Morgan
Submitted by,
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Marshall
"Lee" Morgan was born January 28, 1955 in Indianapolis, IN. He graduated
from Dexter High School, Dexter, MO in 1973.On October 11 1978 he
married Levonne Rae Peterson . To this marriage was born 3 children,
Kirk Wendell, Landon Royce, and Moriah Lorinda Morgan.
Lee spent
the majority of his life designing and crafting jewelry in silver, gold
or platinum. His hobbies we working on his electric train set and
listening to music of all genres, rock, jazz and country. His passion
was making and designing jewelry, and first and foremost his children
and 10 grandchildren; Kenny, Gabriel, Mary, Eva, Lilly, Marley, Hannah,
Aden, Keaton, and Lorinda
Survivors include his wife of 46 years,
Levonne, two brother, Phillip Morgan, John Lee and 1 sister Kate
MacKenzie. Two nieces, Angie Blickhan and Alexandra "Alex" Rakestraw. He
was preceded in death by his Father Paul Morgan, mother Laura Lee and
Step Father Jack Lee and 1 brother James Lee. Father and Mother-Law,
Rev. Carl Peterson and Louise Peterson
Condolences and fond
memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on June 07, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Carol Jean
(Stankowski) Mollenkamp, age 88, died on May 26, 2025 in Apple Valley,
CA. She was the wife of Thomas Henry Mollenkamp who died in Apple Valley
in 2019.
Carol was born on April 7,1937 in Columbia, Missouri.
She was the daughter of Anton James “Stan” Stankowski of St Joseph,
Missouri and Gladys Augusta (Anderson) Stankowski of Denver, Colorado.
Along with her older brother Jim, Carol grew up in Columbia where their
father, a Missouri Hall of Fame quarterback, coached and led intramurals
at the University of Missouri. Carol’s home was full of famous Missouri
coaches and athletes and their families through the years. Carol’s
mother Gladys was also an instructor and employee of the University as
well as an avid athlete.
Carol loved her childhood in Columbia
and would often return to see her parents and many friends who still
lived there. She attended Jefferson Junior High School and Hickman High
School where she had many interests including student government,
theater, and music.
After graduating from Hickman, Carol attended
Stephens College and Drake University. In the summer of 1956, while she
was working in the registrar’s office at Missouri, a young student named
Tom Mollenkamp sat down to talk to her. They began dating and eventually
married in 1957.
Carol and Tom would soon move to Akron, Ohio
where their first two children were born. They later lived in Kansas
City, Illinois, St Louis, New Jersey, and Weston, Massachusetts while
the family continued to grow to six children. Carol had her hands full
raising six children, but she still found time to volunteer at the local
schools and participate in the Boston-Weston METCO school program. Along
the way, she taught her children to love reading, movies, music, nature,
travel, cooking and gardening.
In 1979, Carol,Tom and their three
younger children moved to Apple Valley, CA. After many years of cold
winters, Carol was excited to live and garden in the California
sunshine. Tom and Carol enjoyed exploring California and the
Southwestvisiting museums, national parks, beaches, and theaters.
After raising her children, Carol returned to college and received a
degree in English from Victor Valley College. She became a writer
afterwards publishing articles in the Wall Street Journal and various
magazines. Carol absolutely loved small children and became a
professional nanny as well as helping with her own grandchildren.
Carol is survived by her brother Jim Stankowski of Tampa, Florida,
her brother-in-law Bob Mollenkamp and his wife Pat of Columbia, and her
sister-in-law Jane (Jim) Mollenkamp of Kansas City.
Carol will be
greatly missed by her six children: Mike of New York City, Dave (Dani)
of Piscataway, NJ, Jean Kjellstrand (Torsten) of Eugene, OR, Steve
(Harumi) of Las Vegas, Amy Comito of Apple Valley, and Chris (Kim) of
Richburg, SC.
Carol was particularly proud of her eleven
grandchildren Alicia, Marla (Chris), Nils (Aleah), Björn, Maria,
Takahiro, Shoh, Daniel, David, James, and Kimberly; her great-grandson
George; her six nieces and nephews; and her many great nieces and
nephews.
Donations may be made in Carol’s memory to the Thomas
and Carol Mollenkamp scholarship at the University of Missouri
mizzou.us/MollenkampScholarship.
Posted online on June 06, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Barbara Hirst
Devine, 71, a resident of Columbia, passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2025,
at her home.
Barbara was born on July 13, 1953, in Whitefish Bay,
Wisconsin, the daughter of William Henry Hirst and Elizabeth Jean Hirst.
Barbara cherished her dogs, especially Toto, her beloved miniature
poodle. She enjoyed music, travel, theater, cooking delicious meals (and
especially her holiday cookies, breads, and Chex Mix), and crafting of
all kinds, from ceramics to scrapbooking, where she could channel her
endless creativity. She never met a stranger, and brought color, joy,
and sparkle into the lives of those she met. Barbara had a radiant
spirit and a deep appreciation for all things fun, beautiful, and full
of life.
Above all, Barbara loved her family fiercely, especially
her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Nothing made her
happier than time spent with them, whether sharing stories, decorating
for holidays, playing with Toto, visiting the craft store, playing
outside in the children’s garden she designed, enjoying grandparents day
at their school, shopping for cute clothes, eating out, seeing each and
every performance of their theatrical productions, dying Easter eggs,
reading bedtime stories, or relishing in all of their accomplishments.
Barb excelled at being a grandma. She treasured each memory and made
sure her grandkids knew how much she loved them.
She was a
longtime member of the Missouri United Methodist Church and a Master
Gardener. She enjoyed working with people, including as an
administrative assistant at Trinity Lutheran Child Learning Center and
as a concierge at Hy-Vee.
She will be sadly missed and forever
remembered by her two children, T.J. Devine and wife Jenny of
Jacksonville, IL and Kathleen Hinrichs and husband Nathan of Ottawa, KS;
former husband Dan Devine; four grandchildren, Elizabeth Devine, Danny
Devine, Allie Hinrichs and Mia Hinrichs; one sister, Susie Gerschwiler
and husband Bill of Shorewood, WI, and two nephews Justin and Josh
Gerschwiler.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and one
brother, George “Skip” Hirst.
A Celebration of Life will be held
at Missouri United Methodist Church on Saturday, June 14 at 1:00 p.m.
Family will be available to meet and greet visitors from 12:30 p.m. to
1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested
to the Central Missouri Humane Society, 616 Big Bear Blvd. Columbia, MO
65202.
Posted online on June
07, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
James L.
Gebhardt, 87, Columbia, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, with his
loving family by his side.
James was born in Sterling, Illinois
on March 1, 1938, to the late Kenneth and Elizabeth (Rienstra) Gebhardt.
On September 23, 1956, he married Janet Bertsch in Sterling, Illinois.
After school James worked at the local A&P grocery store for 3 years as
a butcher. James and Janet moved from Sterling, Illinois to Columbia in
1973. He worked as a salesman for over 30 years with Northwestern Steel
and Wire. In more recent years, he drove dealer trade vehicles for
several of the Columbia new car dealerships. He enjoyed playing golf and
was a member of the $3 Golf Club and celebrated having hit a
hole-in-one. He was also a huge Mizzou and St. Louis Cardinals fan.
James is survived by his wife, Janet; three daughters, Debra
Hellmann (Bob), Linda Dains (Mike) and Pamela Knowles (Jeff); one
brother, Fred Gebhardt; four grandchildren, Dustin, Dillon, Andrea and
Adam; and four great grandchildren, Connor, Owen, Kennedy and Millie.
James was also preceded in death by two brothers, Richard and Ray.
The family would like to thank the staff of Memory 1 at Cedar Hurst
for their loving care.
Memorial contributions are suggested to
the Alzheimer’s Association in James’ honor.
Online condolences
and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Nancy Patchett
July 1, 1940 – June 14,
2025
Obituary of Nancy Patchett submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
It is with great
sadness that we announce the passing of our loving mother, Nancy Ellen
(Hoover) Patchett. She passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, in
Columbia, MO.
She was born on July 1, 1940, in St. Joseph, MO to her
parents, the late Byron and Edna Hoover of Princeton, MO. She is
survived by three siblings, Wayne Hoover, Donna Cox, and Karen Breit.
She married James "Jim" Patchett in 1961. She was a devoted wife, loving
mother to her three children,very proud grandmother to her seven
grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. She was known for her warm
funny spirit, her love of singing with the Columbia Mother Singers,
baking, cooking, traveling, and watching sports.
She will be
deeply missed by her children: son Jamie Patchett (Trisha Patchett) of
Columbia, MO, daughter Amy Patchett Mayberry (Craig Keohan) of Shawnee,
KS, and son Adam Patchett (Jessica Patchett) of Columbia, MO; her seven
grandchildren, Olivia Mayberry Haynes (William Haynes), Rebecca
Mayberry, Sydney Scott, Jackson and Jenna Patchett, James and John
Patchett; one great-granddaughter, Blakeleigh Haynes; and all of her
many family and friends.
Services will be held at Memorial
Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West, Columbia, MO 65202, on
Saturday July 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. A visitation will be held at
12:00.m. until the time of service. Donations can be made in her name to
the Alzheimer's Association of Columbia, MO that leads the way to end
Alzheimer's and all other dementia by accelerating global research, risk
reduction and early detection.
Dorothy
Ann Whitney
November 25, 1934 – June 16, 2025
Obituary of Dorothy
Ann Whitney submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial
Park Cemetery/Columbia
Dorothy “Dot”
Whitney passed away on June 16, 2025, at the age of 90, after a life
gracefully and wholeheartedly lived.
Born Dorothy Ann Blubaugh on
November 25, 1934, in St. Louis, Missouri, Dot was the eldest daughter
of Lemuel and Gertrude Blubaugh, and sister to Mary and Jim. Raised in a
joyful, close-knit neighborhood, Dot loved retelling stories of putting
on plays with the local kids, filling her street with laughter and
imagination.
Growing up, Dot played softball and basketball in
junior high, braving outdoor winter practices due to the lack of a gym.
In high school, she played girls’ rules basketball, often joking about
how much she disliked the half-court rule, always preferring the freedom
of full-court play.
She had a lifelong love for music and
dancing, especially to Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald. Her high
school years were filled with rhythm, friendship, and joy, memories she
carried warmly throughout her life.
After graduating from an
all-girls Catholic high school, Dot worked at a title company where she
would sometimes have to run the switch board, a job she would giggle
about, sharing with her grandkids and explaining what a switchboard was.
It was during this time, Dot met her soul mate, Vernon “Hap”
Whitney, on a blind date while he was home from Purdue University one
summer. Their connection was instant. Dot would take the train to Purdue
to visit and often joined his parents at his wrestling tournaments. Hap
proposed at his fraternity house, beginning a marriage that would last
over 60 years.
They were married on August 18, 1956, in St.
Louis, Missouri, and later moved to Columbia, where Hap earned his
master’s at The University of Missouri. After a couple years teaching in
various cities, they returned to Columbia in 1964, where they chose to
raise their family and build a lasting home as Hap became the wrestling
coach at Mizzou.
Together, they raised six children, and Dot
poured herself into motherhood, bringing the kids to every match Hap
coached, weaving athletics and family into one shared legacy. Her kids
loved coming home after school to fresh baked cookies and a homemade
dessert after every dinner. They remember her faithful presence at every
recital, game, and school event, a tradition she happily carried on with
her grandkids and great grandkids.
Her cutout cookies became
legend — first shared with the Mizzou wrestling team, whom she and Hap
hosted for Christmas dinner each year, then her own kids, grandkids and
even great grandkids who recall the messy, loud and most importantly,
fun days sitting at Grandma’s table decorating them each holiday.
Dot had a green thumb, inherited from her father. Her home garden
included irises from her father’s original plants, which still bloom
today. She lovingly grew African violets, orchids and various other
plants, filling her kitchen windows with blooms. During Sunday dinners,
someone inevitably knocked over a violet, quickly cleaning it up before
she noticed.
She loved traveling with her children and close
friends, taking the station wagon across the country to Arizona, the
Grand Canyon, the Smoky Mountains, Washington DC and many Civil War
battlefields. She believed in living while you could, always saying:
“You need to do things like this while you can because one day you
can’t do it anymore.”
She also loved camping and floating
Missouri rivers teaching her children to love nature. She cherished time
at the family lake house, which she maintained for the joy and memories
it brought to her children and grandchildren, even though she never
learned to swim herself.
As her kids grew up, Dot found ways to
keep busy: she was a proud and competitive member of her Tuesday morning
bowling league, where she came just shy of bowling 200 more than once.
With a passion for sewing, she would help sew Greek letters and
apparel for fraternities and sororities through the local business, Red
Weir.
Dot also generously devoted her time to volunteering at
Ellis Fischel Cancer Hospital, where she lovingly sewed blankets and
caps for cancer patients, offering comfort, warmth, and a personal touch
of care to those in need.
Once the grandkids started rolling in
(and didn’t stop) her devotion to her family started all over again.
Her home was the center of countless traditions. Sunday night
dinners spanned decades. Birthday cakes were still made from scratch for
each family member with a loud rendition of “Happy Birthday” at the
dining room table. The aforementioned cut out cookie decorating days, a
puzzle was always being worked on somewhere with a Hallmark movie in the
background. But Christmas- Christmas in Dot’s basement was magical —
with more than 40 people gathered, celebrating with food, family, love,
and a lot of wrapping paper.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her
parents, Lemuel and Gertrude, her brother Jim, and her beloved husband
Vernon “Hap” Whitney. She is survived by her sister, Mary Schiffman,
in-laws: Larry Berres, Diana Gardner, Rita Blubaugh and Carol Whitney,
along with many nieces and nephews. Also her children: Karen (Roger)
Lower, Terry Whitney and Carol Miller, Christy (Tim) Danze, Keith
Whitney, Carla Whitney and Brian Haskamp, and Tricia (John) Williams. As
well as grandchildren: Kyle (Rachael) Lower, Lauren (Geoff) Karr, Kurt
Lower and Bailee Shriver, Kayla Klein, Blair Whitney and Sean Michael
Stanley, Blake (Kelly) Whitney, Whitney (Derek) Lyssy, Courtney (AJ)
Kinnard, Kory (Stephanie) Lower, Brett Williams, Morgan Williams,
Brooklyn O’Nan and Lillie Williams. Not to be forgotten are her great
grandchildren: Kennedy Karr, Joseph Lyssy, Beckett Karr, Caroline Lyssy,
Emerson Whitney, Isaac Lyssy, Whitley Lower, Penny Stanley, Anthony
Lyssy, Oliver and Theodore Whitney, Claire Lower, Agnes Lyssy, Callie
Lower, and three more little blessings on the way.
Dot never met
a stranger. Her laugh could light up a room, her kitchen was always
open, and her faith, kindness, and humility touched everyone she met.
Dot was a devout Catholic, she was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes for
60 years and we know she is at peace with her Lord.
Services will
be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church on Friday, June 20, 2025.
The visitation will begin at 10:00am, followed by a funeral Mass at
11:00am.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial may be made to Our Lady
of Lourdes Catholic Church or the Tiger Style Wrestling Club at
www.tigerstylewrestlingclub.com.
As we honor Dot and her legacy,
let us always remember- family is forever, travel when you can and bake
the cookies.
Kevin Eugene Cossey
Obituary, submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12
East Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203
Kevin Eugene Cossey
of Columbia, MO passed away on June 18, 2025 at the age of 60.
He
is survived by his wife of 25 years George Anne, daughter Savannah and
son Collin. As well as his two sisters, Debbie and Terry. He was
preceded in death and reunited with his father and mother.
Kevin
was born on February 8, 1965, in Mexico, MO to Juanita and Billy Cossey.
He graduated from Centralia High School in 1983 and went on to
graduate from Columbia College in 2002. He was passionate about spending
time with his family and friends, traveling and photography. He will be
missed dearly.
The family will be hosting a celebration of life
on July 19, 2025 and asks that you please contact them regarding the
details.
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 30, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Peter Eric
Freidin, 63, passed away at Windsor Estates in Camdenton, MO on June 19,
2025. He was born to the late Jack Freidin and Claire Siegel in Sumter
County, NC.
Peter had a deep appreciation for the arts and
enjoyed drawing, spending time outdoors, watching movies, and listening
to rock ‘n’ roll music. He had a special bond with his cat, Magellan,
who brought him great comfort and companionship.
He is survived
by his daughter, Shannon Pryor (Josh) of Brumley, MO; sons, Jason
Freidin (Shima) of Cumming, GA and Chris Freidin; grandchildren, Megan
Payne (Blake), Attie Freidin, Aiden Freidin, Ethan Sartin, Zoey Freidin,
Chloe Freidin, Ava Freidin, and Katie Pryor; great-grandson, Waylon
Payne; and his friend, Dana Freidin.
He was preceded in death by
his parents, stepmother, Marta Freidin; mother-in-law, Anna Caruso; and
granddaughter, Molly
Posted online on
October 09, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Rebecca Alice
“Becky” Forbes (née Burch) passed away June 20, 2025, in Bonne Terre,
Missouri at age 83.
Becky was born on March 31, 1942, in
Kirksville, MO to Glenn E. and Lucile Burch (née Heiman). She married
the love of her life, Kenneth C. Forbes, on October 20, 1962, in
Fayette, MO. They celebrated 40 years together before his passing in
2003.
Becky was an Accredited Records Technician for many years
as well as the Librarian of Field Elementary School during the 1980s.
She enjoyed working with children and her friendships with her
colleagues.
Becky enjoyed reading, period dramas, and Irish
music. She was skilled at both needlework and crochet. She loved cats,
snow, and was an early proponent of sunscreen. She never met a stranger
and enjoyed sharing stories and reminiscing.
Becky was preceded
in death by her beloved husband Kenny, her parents Glenn Burch and
Lucile Neighbors, and her sister Glenda E. Sutton.
Becky is
survived by daughters Samantha (Kit) Brewer of Belleville, IL and
Stephanie (Christopher) Petersen of Kansas City, MO, three
grandchildren; Zooey Brewer of Pittsburgh, PA, Kieran Brewer of
Belleville, IL, and Graham Petersen of Kansas City, MO, sisters-in-law
Deb Ferren of Columbia, MO and Dayna (Bill) Salsgiver of Manchester, MO,
as well as several nieces, nephews, and friends.
Becky will now
rest next to her beloved husband Kenny at Memorial Park Cemetery in
Columbia, MO.
A celebration of life will be 11am, Thursday,
October 16, 2025, at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West
Columbia, MO. Followed by inurnment in Memorial Park Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to Doctors Without Borders, Planned
Parenthood, or The Humane Society.
Condolences and fond memories
may be shared at www.memorialfunerlahomeandcemetery.com
Posted online on June 27, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Charles A. Caine,
88, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on June
24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on December 10,
1936, in Troy, Kansas, Charles was the son of Carl and Mernie (Abel)
Caine. He graduated from Berry High School in Rome Georgia and went on
to live a life marked by faith, service, and deep devotion to family and
community.
Charles proudly enlisted in the United States Army,
serving his country with distinction until his honorable discharge in
1965. His time in the military shaped his values of discipline,
humility, and service—principles he carried throughout his life.
It was at the B and G Roller Skating Rink that Charles met the love of
his life, Jeanne Crosby. They married on April 1, 1956, in Waterproof,
Louisiana, beginning a 69-year partnership filled with love, laughter,
and shared purpose. Together, they raised five daughters: Candy, Caren,
Cathy, Carla, and Casie.
Charles began his civilian career with
the H.D. Lee Company in Kansas City before moving to Columbia, where he
continued his computer career as Data Processing manager at Williams
Keepers Accounting firm. In 1971 he went on to become a respected
business owner and founder of Columbia EDP Center until his retirement.
He was a man of integrity and vision, admired by colleagues and
customers alike.
A devoted member of Memorial Baptist Church,
Charles lived out his personal motto: “Not to be ministered unto, but to
minister.” He gave generously his time and talents, serving in various
church roles and engaging in meaningful community work. He also served
on the Advisory Board of The Callaway Bank and was active in
organizations such as SBUG and IPPA.
Charles found joy in many
things: playing tennis, traveling the country by RV with Jeanne,
motorcycle rides and spending time with his grandchildren and
great-grandchildren. His greatest legacy was the love and values he
instilled in his family.
He is survived by his beloved wife,
Jeanne Caine of Columbia; daughters: Candy Hamilton (Jeff) of Columbia,
Caren Wickell (Jon) of Derby, Kansas, Cathy Young of Columbia, Carla
Hurtado of Columbia, and Casie Rauer (Tosh) of St. Joseph, Missouri; ten
grandchildren: Bryan Hamilton (Sarah), Ash Wickell, David Wickell, Ben
Wickell (Cammie), Andrew Young (Ashley), Emily Reames (Matt), Justin
Enyart, Jessica Enyart, Lex Rauer, and Lauren Rauer; and four
great-grandchildren: Deleana Friend, Brennan Reames, Liliana Reames, and
Stathum Enyart. He is also fondly remembered by extended family, and
many dear friends.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents,
Carl and Mernie Caine; his brother, George Caine; and two sisters,
Evelyn Wykert and Hazel Johnson Chance.
Charles A. Caine will be
remembered as a man of steadfast faith, gentle wisdom, and quiet
strength. His life was a testament to service, compassion, and
unwavering love. He leaves behind a legacy of grace and generosity that
will continue to bless generations to come.
In lieu of flowers
memorial contributions may be made to Coyote Hill.
Words of
comfort and support may be shared with the family at the visitation,
which will be, Monday , July 7, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at
Memorial Baptist Church, Columbia, Missouri. Services honoring and
celebrating Charles’s life will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church.
Military honors, committal prayer, and burial will be in Memorial Park
Cemetery, Columbia, Missouri. Memorial Funeral Home, Columbia, MO has
been entrusted with the arrangements.
Posted online on July 18, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
Dianne
Filbert, 82, of Columbia, Missouri went to be in the arms of Jesus on
June 30, 2025. Dianne was born on August 28, 1942, in Rushville,
Illinois to Howard Wilson Yates & Hazel Irene Yates, née Lung.
Dianne grew up in community of Rushville, Illinois. She attended Hale
Ridge Country school, a one-room schoolhouse, for 8 years before going
to Rushville High School. In 1960, after graduating, she would go on to
attend Brown’s Business School.
With her first husband, Ken
Caspall, Dianne owned and operated two Cloud Nine stores in Columbia
starting in 1972, and another in Jefferson City’s Capitol Mall which
opened in 1979. Dianne was the creative spirit behind these stores for
11 years, cultivating both the business and many of the relationships
she would treasure for the rest of her life. Growing Cloud Nine would
always remain one of her proudest achievements.
After selling
Cloud Nine in 1984, Dianne began her next adventure: the business that
she solely owned and operated for 35 years, Identity Custom Emblems -
ETC. Identity started with only one local client, but over the years it
would grow to do business with organizations all across the United
States.
Dianne put her heart and soul into everything she did,
and she was grateful for every opportunity God afforded her for success.
In 2000, she met her second husband, J. Warren Filbert, who would be her
faithful partner and beloved companion for the rest of her life. She had
many hobbies and interests, such as fine art and physical fitness, and
one of her greatest joys was answering the call to become a pianist for
her church. At the age of 70, Dianne began learning the piano on her own
with God as her only teacher. She believed there could be no better
tutor in the all the world.
Dianne treasured many friendships
over the years, including her church family and the friends she made at
Wilson’s Total Fitness. She is survived by her husband, J. Warren
Filbert; her son, David Caspall; brother, Steven Yates; her
sister-in-law, Sheila Yates-Vincent; her stepson, Ryan Filbert, and his
children; her stepdaughter and stepson-in-law, Renee and Brett Howard,
and their children; and her niece, Mary Ann Hard. Dianne is preceded in
death by her parents, Howard and Hazel Yates; and by her brother, Dennis
Yates.
A memorial service will be held 10:30 AM, Saturday, July
26, 2025 at Moniteau Chapel in Fayette, Missouri. Inurnment will follow
the service at Locust Grove Cemetery in Midway, Missouri.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Moniteau Chapel, Samaritan’s
Purse or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Final arrangements are under
the direction of Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service of Fayette, Missouri.
Posted online on July 14, 2025
Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
Mary Helen (née Fults) Garver
October 21, 1948 July 4, 2025.
Mary Helen Garver,
of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025. Born on
October 21, 1948, in Kansas City, Missouri, she was the beloved daughter
of Laveta Fults and William B. Fults.
Mary graduated from
Northeast High School, Class of 1966, and went on to study at the
University of Missouri, where she focused on Reading and Learning
Disabilities, English, and Social Studies. She dedicated her
professional life to education, teaching at West Junior High School and
inspiring countless students throughout her career before retiring.
Mary was a passionate advocate for learning and literacy, but her
love extended far beyond the classroom. She was an avid Kansas City
Chiefs fan, a gifted gardener, and a lover of animals. She found joy in
cooking, canning homemade preserves, and gathering with loved ones over
a well-made Bloody Mary. Her vibrant spirit was also evident in her
active participation in her book club, her cherished Venerable Vikings
group, and her beloved annual cousin reunions.
Mary was preceded
in death by her husband, Fredrick K. Garver, who passed away on
September 22, 2004. She is survived by her two sons, Fredrick W. Garver
and David K. Garver and his wife Amber Garver. She also leaves behind
three beloved granddaughters: Karina Dieckmann, Mary Willson, and Innova
Garver.
Mary’s warmth, wit, and deep love for her family will be
dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of
knowing her.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her
memory to Donation Form Central Missouri Humane Society.
Posted online on July 09, 2025
Published
in Columbia Daily Tribune
Roxanne Liras, 72,
a resident of Columbia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 5,
2025, at her home.
Roxanne was born on July 6, 1952, in Katerini,
Greece, the daughter of Alex Kallas and Froso (Darlagiannis) Kallas. On
December 29, 1975, she married Tom Liras in Rolla, MO, and he survives.
Roxanne was born in Katerini, Greece and came to the United States
in 1954. Roxanne had a great career in sales working for Sears for
several years before going to work for Dillards, where she retired after
twenty years of dedicated service. She enjoyed cooking, especially
cooking Greek food. She always loved preparing meals for her family and
friends. She loved spending time with her family but especially
cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren. She enjoyed her
morning walks and watching old westerns, with Gunsmoke being her
favorite. She was able to travel back to Greece last summer where she
was able to spend 3 weeks with her husband Tom.
In addition to
her husband of close to 50 years, she is sadly missed and forever
remembered by her two children, Alexia (Liras) Juriansz and husband
Jeremy of Bend, OR and George Liras and wife Alison of Nebraska; four
grandchildren, Alexis Liras, Eleni Liras, Thomas Liras, and Everly
Juriansz; one sister, Elizabeth Ligonis of Cape Girardeau.
Roxanne was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services
will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, in the Jefferson
Chapel at Parker-Millard Funeral Service, with a visitation being held
from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers
memorial contributions are suggested to the Central Missouri Humane
Society, Central and Northeast Missouri Food Bank, or Cholangiocarcinoma
Foundation.
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 10, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Tommye Jean Stolt
of Columbia, MO passed peacefully in her chair while watching Wimbledon
on July 6, 2025 at the age of 88. Tommye was born in Little Rock,
Arkansas to Thomas and Grace Murphy. She attended Arkansas State
Teacher’s College, where she met her husband, John James Stolt. Tommye
was an elementary school teacher for 25 years. Tommye and John were
married for 54 years until his passing in 2011.
Tommye enjoyed
playing sports and was particularly skilled at tennis. She and John
traveled all over the United States and Europe, and loved spending time
with her grandchildren. In addition to loving games of all kinds, Tommye
took up ballroom dancing in her 70s and danced in many dance
competitions across the country. Tommye was an integral part of her
family and enjoyed special relationships with each of her grandchildren.
She read avidly and carefully collected beautiful items from around the
world on her travels. Tommye loved life and lived it with all her heart.
Tommye is survived by her three children, John Thomas (Julie),
Judith LaRose (Paul), and Jana Wilson (Kevin), eleven grandchildren,
seven great-grandchildren, and her sisters Pat Kolb and Evelyn Martin.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Village of Bedford Walk on
Sunday, July 20, 2025 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Donations in her name are
welcome to The Wardrobe where Tommye often volunteered.
Posted online on July 12, 2025
Published in
Columbia Daily Tribune
Billy Glenn Cumbie,
formerly of Columbia, Missouri, passed away July 7, 2025, at the age of
95, while a resident of the Breeze Park Senior Living Facility in Weldon
Spring, Missouri.
He was born on March 21, 1930, to John Jordan
and Gladys Cumbie (née Anderson) in Dickens, Texas. He married Marlene
Waggoner from Spur, Texas, in 1951. She preceded him in death in 2013
after 62 years of marriage. Billy Glenn was a graduate of the Dickens
High School in 1947 where he was class president and valedictorian. He
graduated from Texas Tech University in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science
degree and in 1952 with a Master of Science in Botany.
He served
his country during the Korean War in the 10th Infantry Division, Company
A, 86th Infantry. However, due to his scientific background he did not
see combat, but was sent to Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C., to
do research on tropical diseases.
In 1960 he received his PhD in
Botany from the University of Texas. In 1961 Billy Glenn began what
would be a 60 year career as a professor of Botany at the University of
Missouri-Columbia. He retired from full-time teaching in 1996, only to
continue teaching a readings course for the next 25 years, retiring
permanently in 2021. He was fortunate to be able to do what he loved. He
often said that “university professors were some of the happiest
people.” This was definitely true of him.
Billy Glenn became a
lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals when he was a student at the
University of Texas. He could get KMOX on the radio in Austin, Texas.
He enjoyed going to Mizzou basketball and football games. When the
Mizzou basketball team played Kansas in 1989, he was an honorary coach
and was able to join the team huddles. When the Mizzou football team
played Texas Tech in 2003, Sonny Cumbie, the grandson of one of Billy
Glenn’s cousins, played for Texas Tech. Someone asked him who he was
going to root for. He replied, “MU - they pay my salary!”
Other
interests included fishing and coaching his sons’ little league baseball
teams. He went to annual botanical conferences throughout the country
and spent significant time researching his mother’s Swedish ancestry.
Billy Glenn and Marlene were long time members of Memorial Baptist
Church.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his
parents and was the last of his 3 siblings: John Cumbie, Jr., Arnel Rhea
Cumbie, and Sue Farley. Besides his family he was the last of his
boyhood friends from Dickens: R.C. Littlefield, Carlton Dodson and
Kenneth Street. He enjoyed going to the Dickens High School reunions
where he would visit with everyone.
He is survived by his
children: Patricia (John) Broadfoot, Douglas Glenn (Debbie) Cumbie and
John Scott (Kathy) Cumbie. In addition, he is survived by 4
grandchildren: Katelyn (Michael) Glaze, Natalie Cumbie, John Robert
‘Jack’ Cumbie and Joanna (Riley) Bennett and 4 great grandchildren who
delighted everyone at Breeze Park when they came to visit him: Atticus,
Phineas, Silas, and Estelle Glaze.
A celebration of life will
take place on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 11:30 until 1:00 pm at
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO
65202. A private family burial will follow. www.newcomerstlouis.com
The Cumbie family would like to express our gratitude to the staff
of Aspen Woods, the memory care area in Breeze Park. His last years were
lived with dignity. He received exceptional care and kindness by all.
Posted online on July 17, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Deborah Shannon
Booker (April 6, 1937 - July 11, 2025), 88, of Columbia, Missouri,
passed away at home this week, surrounded by the peace and beauty of her
family and the farm that she loved. A lifelong educator, equestrian, and
advocate for excellence in horsemanship, Deborah lived a full life
defined by passion, purpose, and tireless dedication.
Born on
April 6, 1937, in Washington, D.C., to Angus Roy and Barbara (Stratton)
Shannon, Deborah developed an early love for animals, learning, and hard
work. That love would become the foundation of a life that touched so
many riders, students, as well as families across the country.
After earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri in
Columbia, she began her career as a psychological technician before
turning fully toward her true calling - horses and teaching. In 1965,
she founded and managed The Horse Fair, a business that reflected both
her entrepreneurial spirit and deep equestrian knowledge. Deborah
co-founded the Hinkson Valley Pony Club in Columbia, Missouri in 1970.
Deborah spent over two decades teaching at the collegiate level,
shaping the equestrian science programs at both William Woods (College)
University and Stephens College as a Professor. At Stephens, she then
serve as Chair of the Department of Equestrian Science Department,
mentoring countless students and helping to professionalize the
discipline she loved so deeply.
A nationally recognized expert,
Deborah served as a National Examiner and Instruction Council member for
the United States Pony Clubs and was a respected Horse Show Steward for
the American Horse Shows Association. As a life member, Deborah earned
the Lifetime Achievement honor from the Missouri Horse Shows Association
in 2007. She was honored in “Marquis Who’s Who” as a noteworthy educator
and advocate in her field.
More than her titles and accolades,
Deb loved collecting rocks and gems from around the country. She also
was a member of the National Insulator Association and thoroughly
enjoyed collecting her vast collection of rare antique insulators.
Booker will be remembered for her unwavering work ethic, her love for
her farm The Horse Fair in Missouri, and the strength she shared with
all who knew her. The Horse Fair was her sanctuary - where she worked
the land, raised her family, and built a life with horses marked by
intention and care.
She was preceded in death by her husband Paul
Booker and her oldest daughter Margaret Booker. She leaves behind her
daughter Sarah Booker, son Charles Booker, daughter-in-law Cynthia
(Grant) Booker, granddaughters Shannon Booker, McKenzie (Booker) Daly,
son-in-law Skyler Daly, and her great grandson Tate Daly.
A
memorial service and celebration of Deborah’s life are to be held at
Parker-Millard Funeral Service in Columbia, Missouri, on Friday, July
25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
Arrangements are under the direction of
Parker-Millard Funeral Service and Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for
the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.
In lieu of flowers,
Deborah would want you to please register to vote and then vote for your
choice.
Posted online on July 19, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Barbara Mary
Kernell, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at the age of 91
surrounded by family. Born to Oliver and Ruth O’Brien on September 20,
1933, in St. Louis, Missouri, she graduated from Xavier Catholic High
School in 1951.
Barb is survived by her children: Sue Winter, Joe
(Marie) Kernell, Mary (Tim) Laird, Patty Kernell (daughter-in-law), Jim
(Tonja) Kernell, Jane (Kurt) Rall, Bob (Michele) Kernell, and Pat
(Margarett) Kernell; grandchildren: Stephanie (Micah) Saucier, Stacey
(Andy) Winter, Haley (Michael) Kernell, Charlie Laird, Molly (Spencer)
Finley, Emily Laird, Grace Laird, Tim Kernell, Kathleen (Tyler) Gardner,
Will (Andrea) Kernell, Maura Kernell, Tate (Danielle) Kernell, Wyatt
Kernell, Quinn Kernell, Lola Kernell, Kyle (Mary) Rall, Natalie (Ethan)
Rall, Michael Rall, Sophia Rall, Zac (Shelby) Kernell, Luke Kernell,
Drew Kernell, Nathan (Maddie) Kernell, Aaron Kernell, Christian Kernell;
and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband
Lawrence, her parents Oliver and Ruth, her sister Patricia Dowling, her
brother Gerald O’Brien and her son Thomas Kernell.
Barb’s legacy
of love lives on in the many family traditions we continue to hold dear,
each one rooted in the foundation she so lovingly established. Holidays
like Christmas, St. Patrick’s Day, and the Fourth of July were never
ordinary; they were transformed into joyful celebrations filled with
good food, festive decorations, and time spent together. She lived her
Catholic faith with bold strength and daily devotion, always seeking to
lead others to Christ through both word and example.
A dedicated
homemaker in her early years, Barb later worked for Cloud Nine, State
Farm, and served as Volunteer Coordinator at the VA Hospital. Her true
vocation, however, was in the care and support she gave to others, both
professionally and in her countless hours of volunteer service. She
faithfully walked alongside many converts to the Catholic Church through
RCIA, supported numerous church ministries including assistance to
Vietnam refugees, Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, Right to Life,
Eucharistic Minister for Ellis Fischel. Barb gave her time and talent to
the PET Mobility Project, always placing the needs of others before her
own.
Barb had a love for music and proudly sang with the VA
choir, performing in venues as distinguished as the Kennedy Center and
Carnegie Hall. Her hobbies reflected her creativity and joyful spirit,
and she was an accomplished painter, seamstress, crocheter, and jewelry
maker. She had an eye for beauty and expressed it through flower
arrangements, hand-crafted gifts, and the special touches she brought to
every celebration.
A funeral service will be held on July 28,
2025, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. followed by the Holy Mass
of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic
Church, Columbia, Missouri. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery
in Columbia, Missouri. Friends and family are invited to come together
to honor her memory and celebrate a life well lived.
In lieu of
flowers, the family requests donations be made to Our Lady of Lourdes
Hospitality North American Volunteers
(https://lourdesvolunteers.org/donate/) in Barb’s name, reflecting her
lifelong commitment to Our Lady and the message of Lourdes.
Barb’s legacy of faith, family, creativity, compassion, and love will
live on in all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed
and forever remembered.
Courtesy of the
family, July 28, 2025
Gerda Lisbeth
Yasuda, of Columbia, MO, passed away at home on July 12, 2025, after a
difficult battle with cancer. She departed this life at the age of 92,
with her loving family at her side.
She was born February 4,
1933, in Königsberg, East Prussia, the daughter of Gustav Schmidtke and
Marie Bortz Schmidtke.
After graduating secondary school in
Lübeck, Germany, Gerda studied to become a Certified Registered Nurse
Anesthetist (CRNA), in Stockholm, Sweden. While living and studying
there, she also became a Swedish citizen.
Following her studies
she moved from Sweden to the US. She first worked in Boston, MA, and
then in San Francisco, CA, where she was highly sought after, based on
her speciality in neonatal/pediatric anesthesia.
Gerda married
Hirotsugu (Koge) Yasuda in San Fransisco on April 6, 1968. They met on
the deck of the MS Gripsholm, a transatlantic ocean liner traveling from
New York to Sweden. Following their courtship, they were happily married
for 50 years until Koge’s passing on October 29, 2018.
Gerda
especially loved staying active and enjoyed gardening, traveling, and
skiing. One of her favorite activities was water aerobics, which she
participated in for 37 years. She was also a devoted grandmother, and a
member of First Baptist Church in downtown Columbia.
Remaining to
cherish Gerda’s memory are her son, Ken Yasuda, and wife Soyoun; her
son, Akira Yasuda, and wife Amanda; her granddaughter, Alina Yasuda; and
her sisters, Gretchen Wenderodt and Gertrud Fasching.
Preceding
Gerda in death are her husband, Koge Yasuda; her daughter, Lisbeth
Yasuda; her parents, Gustav and Marie Schmidtke; and her three brothers,
Fritz, Bruno, and Werner Schmidtke.
A celebration of her life
will be held this Autumn, at 2:00pm on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at
First Baptist Church, 1112 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO.
In lieu of
flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First Baptist
Church of Columbia.
Courtesy of the
family
Richard
Ryland Dohm, 95, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, in Columbia,
Missouri.
Born on September 2, 1929, in Hibbing, Minnesota, to
John W. and Irma (Clark) Dohm, Richard grew up in Hibbing and
Minneapolis with his three siblings, John W. Dohm II, Jane Dohm Johnson,
and Clark Dohm.
After a brief stint in the Navy, Richard ("Dick"
to his friends) attended college at the University of Minnesota where he
met Louise Vonderhaar. The couple married and moved to Columbia, MO, in
1965 after Dick completed his PhD and accepted a faculty position at MU
in the Political Science department, where he oversaw the Governmental
Affairs Program until his retirement in 1990.
They had two boys,
Chris and Greg, and enjoyed many years weekending at Thomas Hill
Reservoir and vacationing in Grand Marais, MN. The couple separated when
the boys were in their teens and remained friendly until Louise's
passing in 1998.
Dick had a lifelong passion for tennis and
enjoyed many years traveling the world with his long-time partner, Patsy
Brown. The two belonged to the infamous "tennis group" that rarely
misses a Wednesday night at Murry's restaurant, as long as they are in
town and not on the courts. Dick was known for his warm presence,
self-deprecating humor, and legendary frugality.
Richard is
survived by sons Christopher Clark Dohm (Ashley Dohm) and Gregory
Hathaway Dohm and grandchildren Ryland Dohm, Lorelei Dohm, and Brandon
Dohm. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.
A
Celebration of Life will be held on August 23, 2025, from 1:00 PM to
3:00 PM at Shakespeare's Pizza South, 3911 Peachtree Drive.
Posted online on
August 02, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Emma "Jeanne"
Buckman passed away on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at Landmark Hospital in
Columbia.
Jeanne was born July 21, 1936, in Monroe City,
Missouri, to Charles F. and Mary Lee (Dowell) Tipton. She met her
husband, Jim, when she worked for him waiting tables at the Deluxe Cafe
in Monroe City. They were married on February 22, 1955, and he preceded
her in death on April 11, 2011.
Jeanne grew up on a farm west of
Monroe City, but really made her mark in Columbia, where she owned and
operated her Merle Norman store for over 57 years and also owned and
operated The Lingerie Shop, which was a very successful business on
Broadway. She was one of the oldest store merchants in Columbia with
over 50 years of business in downtown Columbia and the Columbia Mall.
Even though she was a serious business owner she had a fun side as
well, and we heard many times about her adventures of water skiing on
Thanksgiving. We also have pictures of people lined down the sidewalk on
days that Beanie Babies were delivered to her store. She also had a
tendency to use her sons as "models" for girls that were in her store to
get their ears pierced; they complied and told the girls it didn't hurt
at all, and Kim asked her many times if he could get an application as a
fitting room attendant at The Lingerie Shop; she declined! She loved all
things Christmas and had several rooms in her home that were Christmas
themed 12 months out of the year.
One of her hardest crosses for
her to bear was watching her son, Kevin, decline in health and pass
before her and Jim.
Survivors include sons, David Kim and
Kimberly of Darby, MT and Charles Keith Buckman and Karen of Fair Grove,
MO; grandchildren, Agustus Buckman of Missoula, MT, Emma Kate, Salt Lake
City, UT, Korrie, Springfield, MO and Kurt, Fair Grove, MO; a sister,
Margaret Raetz, Columbia, MO and a brother, Wayne (RuthAnn) Tipton of
Monroe City, MO. She also had 2 very special co-workers who have been a
huge blessing to her and her family, Tisha Parsons and Jo Coffman. She
was preceded in death by her parents, Charles F. and Mary Lee Tipton;
her husband of 56 years, Jim Buckman, son, Kevin, a brother, Charles F.
Tipton, Jr; and three sisters, Pat Tipton, Charlene Jobe, and Mary Sue
Ruble.
Services will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at
Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia, MO. Visitation will begin at 10am
with a rosary at 11am and burial following at the Memorial Cemetery.
Memorial donations can be made to the March of Dimes, or to the Humane
Society. We are sure that Jeanne was welcomed by a pack of her dogs once
she hit the gates of heaven!
Courtesy of the family
Gabriele
Hildegard McCown, 73, of Columbia left this earthly plane on July 30,
2025.
Gabriele was born on September 29, 1951, in Dobbeln/Kreis
Helmstedt, Germany, to Johannes and Hildegard Gambke. She grew up in
Braunschweig, Germany, where she was well loved by friends and family
alike.
It was there that she fell in love with horseback riding,
cross country and eventing. In May of 1975, Gabriele met Thomas James
McCown III, “Jim”, while he was stationed in Helmstedt as a checkpoint
MP with the United States Army.
The two were married on September
27, 1975. In November of 1975 Gabriele immigrated to the United States
with her new husband where they built a beautiful life together and
welcomed her first and only child, Colleen Suzanne McCown, on August 4,
1981.
Gabriele attended the University of Missouri and graduated
from MU’s School of Health Professions in 1994. After obtaining her
degree, she accepted a position with the Columbia Public Schools as an
occupational therapist, a position she remained in until her retirement
in 2014.
Gabriele was always passionate about helping people, she
cared deeply about others, and it showed in both her work, and her
personal and professional relationships.
In 2001 Gabriele and Jim
divorced. It was an amicable parting of ways and the two remained
friends for the remainder of her life. Following her divorce, Gabriele
would go on to love again and was united in marriage to Randall Johnston
on November 30, 2002.
Randall loved Gabriele fiercely, and the
two spent their time together traveling, attending events, cheering on
Mizzou football and basketball athletes, and working on their home and
garden. Through her marriage to Randall, Gabriele also gained two
stepchildren, Shan Rich and Tricia Johnston, whom she loved very much.
Gabriele was a vibrant spirit who enjoyed horseback riding, fitness,
working in her garden, volunteering, spending time with friends and
family, and training her two German Shepherds, Neetchie and Sasha.
Gabriele made friends easily and had an incredible network of
friends and neighbors who were a source of love, compassion, comfort,
and support until the very end of her life. Gabriele passed peacefully
in her sleep with her daughter by her side, surrounded by love at the
Caring Hearts and Hands hospice house on July 30, 2025.
Gabriele
is survived by her daughter, Colleen McCown (Ernie Kanekoa) of Colorado
Springs, CO; one stepdaughter Tricia Flesner (Andy) of Columbia; one
stepson Shan Rich (Emily Rodhouse) of Columbia; one sister Guni Gambke
(Johann Rynski) of Germany; one nephew Thomas Franke of Germany, and
four grandchildren: Aiyana Rich, Emery Rich, Ella Rich, and Margot
Flesner.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Johannes and
Hildegard Gambke, one brother, Hans Jürgen Gambke, and her husband,
Randall Johnston.
A celebration of life will be held from 4:00
p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on August 30, 2025, at the Columbia Country Club. In
lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her
memory to: Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia (Hospice House) 1307 West
Broadway, Columbia. MO 65203; the Mary Lee Johnston Community Learning
Center 1509 Hinkson Ave, Columbia, MO 65201; and/or the Columbia Canine
Sports Center 4506 Interstate 70 Dr SE, Columbia, MO 65201.
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, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Shirley Jean
Ballard, 95, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 2,
2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 20, 1930,
in Osceola, Missouri to Charles and Bonnie Wisner.
Shirley
married Marion Robert Ballard on July 4, 1948, in Osceola, Missouri.
They were blessed with 69 years together before Marion passed on October
24, 2017, at the age of 93.
Shirley and her family moved to
Columbia in 1952 after Marion began a job with the University of
Missouri. A dedicated homemaker in her early years, she later worked for
J.C. Penney Company for over twenty years.
Shirley was an active
member of Westside Christian Church and then Blue Ridge Christian Church
serving in various capacities. She enjoyed spending family time at their
cabin at the Lake of the Ozarks. During retirement, Shirley and Marion
developed a passion for volunteering at The Food Bank for Central and
Northeast Missouri for over 10 years.
She is survived by her
daughter Sharon Brim (Bob) of St. Charles, son Roger Ballard (Susan) of
Columbia, daughter Rita Millner (Rob deceased) of Nokomis, FL, daughter
Tami Firsick (Brian) of Fenton, eight grandchildren, 20 great
grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
Funeral services
will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at Memorial Funeral Home in
Columbia. Visitation begins at 11:00 a.m. followed by the service at
12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to The Food
Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri or Central Missouri Humane
Society.Posted online on August 24, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Terry Lee Stiles,
75,of Columbia, MO passed away on August 18, 2025.
He was born on
February 17,1950 in Springfield MO. Terry grew up as an army brat and
moved numerous times growing up. He often spoke of the years he lived in
Germany as a child; later this would be where his love of travel began.
After graduating from high school he moved to Texas to attend
college. It was there living in San Antonio that he met the love of his
Martha Stiles. The day was June 20,1969, and the place was the Officers
Club. While everyone at the club was busy watching men land on the moon,
Terry was busy watching Martha. And the rest, as they say is history.
They were married 18 months later on January 16th 1971 in San Antonio,
TX.
Terry and Martha moved back to Missouri so that he could
attend college at the University of Missouri-Rolla; where he studied
engineering. After college and two children they made their home in
Columbia, MO.
It was here that Terry started several successful
businesses. Including: Dri-Con Systems, Orthman Conveying, and TLC
Moving, among others. Terry was always curious, and mechanically minded.
And was known as the "Professor" in the manufacturing world. He was the
go to person when it came to designing and building complex machines
across numerous industries.
Terry never took his success for
granted and was constantly paying his good fortune forward. He would
frequently take meetings with other local business people/entrepreneurs
who would walk into his office via referrals, or whom he had met through
chance encounter. He was always happy to offer them advice and
friendship.
Terry was a dedicated father and grandfather and
never missed a chance to spend time with his three grandsons; whether it
was taking them on a trip to Europe or coaching their soccer team. They
brought each other endless joy and amusement.
He also enjoyed
numerous hobbies; he was an excellent skier, a member of the Corvette
Club, and enjoyed games of strategy. But most of all he loved traveling;
he and his wife Martha visited over 25 countries during their lifetime.
He was kind and community minded and would frequently donate both
his time and money to the Hepatitis C Alliance, The Assistance League of
Mid Missouri, the VA, and Big Brothers & Big Sisters. His impact and
contributions to the community were widespread and heartfelt. He will be
sorely missed.
He was survived by his children Jeffrey Stiles &
Kimberly Collier, his grandchildren Jacob, Christopher, and Justus
Palmer. Great grandson Santino Palmer. And his siblings Christopher and
Thomas Stiles.
He was predeceased by his wife Martha Stiles,
brother Michael Stiles, and parents Jack and Alma Stiles.
Visitation will be at 11:00 AM on August 28, 2025 at Memorial Funeral
Home in Columbia MO. Funeral service will begin at 12pm, followed by
burial in Memorial Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial
contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of Greater
Missouri, 1601 E Broadway, Suite 245, Columbia, MO 65201 or online at
alz.org
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on September 04, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Frederick Edward
Tonnies, age 82, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, in his home.
Fred was a devoted family man and a passionate Mizzou sports fan who
found his greatest joy in time spent with family and friends. He had a
remarkable ability to make others laugh, and everyone always felt
welcome in his home and heart.
Fred is survived by his wife,
Kathleen (Jaworowski) Tonnies; his son, Joseph Tonnies; and his
daughter, Sarah (William “Trey”) Pope. He is also survived by his
grandchildren: Dr. Kyle Tonnies, Ava Tonnies, William “Liam” Pope IV,
and Olivia Pope. He will be dearly missed by his siblings and in-laws
Judy (Tonnies) and Bill Schulz, Mary and Rick Sato, Jim Gibilterra Sr.,
and Barbara Jaworowski, as well as by many beloved nieces and nephews.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick Emil Tonnies
and Edna Marie (Vollmer) Tonnies; his sister, Audrey (Tonnies) Manning;
brother-in-law, Patrick Manning; and his nephew, Dennis O’Donnell.
A Memorial Gathering Will Be Held On:
Saturday, September
13th, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Schrader Funeral Home
www.schrader.com
Schrader Funeral Home
14960 Manchester
Rd, Ballwin, MO 63011
A celebration of Fred’s life will be held
following the service from 4pm-8pm at Bellerive Country Club. The family
welcomes relatives, friends, and all whose lives Fred touched to join in
remembrance.
Bellerive Country Club
Hosted at The Field
House
12925 Ladue Road
St. Louis, MO 63141
Please
share memories of Fred and condolences with the family in the online
guestbook at www.schrader.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may
be made in Fred’s memory to the University of Health Sciences and
Pharmacy (formerly the St. Louis College of Pharmacy) at
uhsp.edu/givenow
Fred’s Professional Career:
Fred was born
on June 22, 1943, in St. Louis at Christian Hospital. He met the love of
his life, Kathleen Ann (Jaworowski) Tonnies, while working at Christian
Hospital as a pharmacy intern and she as a nurse intern. They married on
August 25, 1967, and shared more than 57 years together.
Fred
earned his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the St. Louis College of
Pharmacy in 1968, completed an Executive Management Fellowship for
Directors of Pharmacy at the Wharton Business School, University of
Pennsylvania, in 1989, and received a Master of Science in Pharmacy
Administration from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy in 1990.
He
began his career as a student pharmacist intern at Gasen Pharmacy and
Christian Hospital, then worked as a staff pharmacist at Christian
Hospital Northwest. In 1970, Fred and Kathleen moved to Hannibal,
Missouri, where he became Director of Pharmacy Services at St.
Elizabeth’s Hospital. There, he designed a new pharmacy, introduced
modern practices, and also provided part-time services to Levering
Hospital and Beth Haven Extended Care Facility.
During his time
in Hannibal, Fred’s public service included:
· Board member and
co-author of a grant establishing the Mark Twain Mental Health
Association Board member of the Hannibal Council on Alcohol and Drugs
· Board member of the Marion County Ambulance District
In
1977, Fred was appointed Manager of Pharmacy Services at the University
of Missouri-Columbia Hospital and Clinics, where he served for 26 years.
He expanded facilities, staffing, and services, introducing modern
inpatient and outpatient distribution, clinical pharmacy programs, and
training partnerships with the UMKC School of Pharmacy.
Fred also
took on wider administrative leadership. When University Hospital merged
with Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, he served as Acting Assistant Director
of Professional Services, managing Pharmacy, Pathology, Radiology,
Emergency, and Transplant Services, while also budgeting and staffing
for a new Endoscopy Center. Later, when Columbia Regional Hospital
merged into the system, he assumed responsibility for its pharmacy
operations as well, uniting services under a single manager.
Between 1983-1986, Fred worked as a consultant pharmacist to Fulton
State Hospital, Nevada State Hospital, and Woodhaven Learning Center,
where he evaluated and improved pharmacy services.
After retiring
from the University in 2003, Fred continued his work as:
·
Director of Pharmacy at Samaritan Hospital (Macon, MO) for one year
· Director of Pharmacy at Fulton State Hospital for six years
· Consultant pharmacist for Missouri Care and the Surgery Center of
Columbia
From 2011 to 2023, Fred was Pharmacy Director for the
Missouri Department of Mental Health, where he reviewed and developed
statewide medication policies, implemented new pharmacy software across
seven hospitals, and chaired the committee reviewing opioid prescribing
practices.
Fred also served as a consultant pharmacist to the
Missouri Mutual Employers Insurance Company (4 years), Novation Supply
Company (6 years, including chair), and the University Hospital
Consortium (12 years). He taught as adjunct faculty at the UMKC School
of Pharmacy and at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy.
His
professional leadership included decades of service to pharmacy
organizations:
· Member of the American Society of Hospital
Pharmacists (ASHP), including the Council on Organizational Affairs
· Founding member of the Missouri Society of Hospital Pharmacists
(MSHP) in 1970, serving on numerous committees, the board, and as
president for two terms
· Appointed by Governor John Ashcroft to
the Missouri Board of Pharmacy (1992-1998), serving as president for one
year
Fred’s accomplishments were recognized with numerous awards,
including:
· St. Louis Society of Hospital Pharmacists Student
Award (1968)
· MSHP Hospital Pharmacist of the Year (1978)
· University of Missouri-Columbia Hospital - Management Leadership
Award (1984)
· MSHP Thomas J. Garrison Achievement Award (1991)
· Fellow of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (1993)
· Outstanding Alumni Award, St. Louis College of Pharmacy (1994)
· Missouri Pharmacy Association Bowl of Hygeia Award (1996)
Community Service & Personal Interests:
Fred’s impact extended
well beyond pharmacy. In Columbia, he was the Director of the Men’s and
Women’s Adult Soccer League for 14 years and served as Soccer
Commissioner for the Show-Me State Games for 13 years. His dedication to
the sport was recognized with his induction into the SMSG Hall of Fame.
After retiring from pharmacy, Fred began a new path as President of
the St. Louis Chapter of Better Investing, overseeing a territory across
Missouri and Illinois. This chapter educated both individuals and clubs
in stock investing, and Fred embraced the role with the same dedication
he brought to pharmacy.
Fred lived his life to the fullest,
guided by faith, family, service, and humor. He gave endlessly of his
time and talents, touched countless lives, and left a legacy of
kindness, leadership, and love. He often said he had no regrets, and he
leaves behind cherished memories and an example of a life well lived.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral
Service and Crematory
12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
Robert E.
Everman, 71, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home
on Saturday, August 23, 2025. He was born May 27, 1954, in Ashland,
Kentucky, to Lancan and Mary Everman.
Bob is survived by his
loving wife of 53 years, Bette; two sons, Bobby (Andy) of Columbia, MO,
and Christopher of Hallsville, MO; two grandsons, Jake (Bailey) Anderson
of Aberdeen, SD, and Lansen Everman of Hallsville, MO; and four
great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his parents, Lancan and Mary
Everman of Rush, KY; two brothers, Mike (Pam) Everman of Rush, KY, and
Dan Everman of Westwood, KY; and a sister, Lisa, whom he affectionately
called “George” throughout her life.
Bob was a proud uncle to
four nieces, April (Derek) Alexander of Richmond, KY, Amanda (Collin)
Williams of Berea, KY, Danielle Bireley of Flatwoods, KY, and Katie
Everman of Morehead, KY; and three nephews, James Thompson of Columbus,
OH, and Cory and Jerod Everman of Rush, KY.
A devoted Christian
of the Baptist faith, Bob was a member of Grayson Freewill Baptist
Church in Grayson, KY. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is
resting in the arms of his Lord and Savior.
He will be fondly
remembered for his love of camping, barbecuing for family and friends,
and his gift for storytelling, sharing colorful experiences from his
life that brought joy and laughter to those around him.
A private
family graveside service will be held on September 6, 2025, at Cribbs
Hill Cemetery in Grayson, Kentucky.
Arrangements are under the
care of Nelson-Millard Funeral Home in Columbia, MO, and Sparks Funeral
Home in Grayson, KY.
Submitted by,
Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153.
Bud Holiman passed
away on Tuesday, September 2,2025, after several weeks of declining
health.
Bud was born in Nicut, Oklahoma, on July 5,1933 to John
Holiman and Laura Brown Holiman. The family relocated to Boone County,
Missouri, in the 1940s, where Bud spent his life as a farmer in McBaine
and later Deer Park and as a neighbor and friend to many.
Bud was
preceded by death by his parents and sister Minnie Lee Squires.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Geri Crouch Holiman, sister
Joyce Dean Williams of O’Fallon, children Kurt Holiman (Denise) of
Centralia, Dena Hutto (Clay) of Portland, Oregon, and Alarice Houston
(Matt) of Edwardsville, Illinois, and grandchildren Jared, Ella, and
Rohan Holiman and Kyle and Colin Houston.
A gathering of family
and friends will be held at the Holiman farm on Sunday, October 12,
2025, at 2-5 PM.
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.
Carla Anderson
November 26, 1930 – September 4, 2025
Obituary of Carla Anderson
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Memorial Park
Cemetery/Columbia
Carla Lee
Anderson, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and
sister, passed away at her home in Columbia on September 4, 2025.
She
is survived by her four daughters Jerilyn (Leslie) Hahn, Debra (Steve
Bourque) Anderson, Rosie (John) Anderson-Harper and Stephanie (Ron)
Stegall, ten grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, one sister Dollie
Wagner, and numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces. She was preceded in
death by her parents, her husband Wayne, her brother Jerry, and her
sisters Patricia, Natalie, and Jacqueline.
Carla was born in 1930
to Ruth Isaacson Erickson and Carl Erickson in North Dakota. As a child
she remembers milking the cows and feeding the chickens in their small
rural town. She excelled in school, actively participating in
basketball, theater, 4-H, and the school newspaper. She attended
Jamestown College where she continued her broad scope of activities and
graduated with a degree in English. It was there that she fell in love
with her lifelong partner, Wayne Anderson, and they were married in
December of 1952.
Carla’s measure of success was “to love well
and work well, to use one’s talents to their fullest.”
She
succeeded in every aspect. She loved her family and was loved by them.
Carla and Wayne’s 68-year marriage was full of love, adventure, and
shared interests. They had four daughters – Jerilyn, Debra, Rosie, and
Stephanie, who remember her as loving but firm. There were daily chores,
but also nightly dinners to discuss our days. She attended sporting
events, band concerts, and theater productions, always the proud mother.
And when her daughters had children, she took an active part in their
lives, helping with their care, and attending their activities. She had
a big heart for family.
Carla also loved learning and loved her
work. She earned a Master of Arts in English from the University of
Delaware in 1964. As her children got older, she went back to school and
earned her Ph.D. in Psychology in 1978 from the University of Missouri.
She became a licensed psychologist and practiced in Columbia for many
years, specializing in family and individual counseling. She wanted to
help others be their best selves.
Carla and Wayne both loved to
travel. They believed that “Life is an adventure waiting to be
discovered.” Early in their marriage, summer vacations with the family
became an annual event taking them the across the United States to
national and state parks, big cities, small towns, and numerous
adventures. Starting in 1972 they traveled frequently to Europe often
staying for 6 months to a year at a time. This interest led to trips to
Africa, China, Australia, Russia, and South America. Many of their
travels were combined with learning through the Road Scholar program.
They also traveled for live theater and storytelling. And, many of their
travel adventures were chronicled in a weekly newspaper column, Venture
Bound.
Carla loved to use her talents and to entertain others.
She wrote and presented programs individually and with Wayne to groups
including Fortnightly, Unitarian Universalist Forum, OSHER lifelong
learning, and school classes. She often included humor in what she
presented, believing that laughter is the best medicine. She and Wayne
both loved to cook and often hosted or attended dinner parties. Everyone
felt welcome in her home. In addition to dinner groups, Carla enjoyed
bridge, reading, and discussing investments with her friends.
Carla will be remembered for her enthusiasm for life, her warm, caring
smile, and her desire to help others.
Carla suffered from
Alzheimer’s disease the last few years of her life, and her family would
like to thank her compassionate caregivers Sonya, Zearia, and Shahaira
of House of Caregivers for their wonderful care.
A memorial
Celebration of Life service will be forthcoming. Donations may be made
to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Columbia MO or the Alzheimer’s
Association. Online condolences may be made at
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/missouri/columbia.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral
Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia, Missouri 65203
Arlene Kalaf, 85,
passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving
family. Arlene was born on April 5, 1940, in St Elizabeth, Missouri, to
Joseph Conrad and Clara Jurgensmeyer.
Arlene graduated
salutatorian from St. Elizabeth High School where she was a cheerleader
and played on the girls basketball team. After graduation, she was
awarded a scholarship to the University of Missouri and attended for a
year there, an experience she fondly remembered.
In her early
years, Arlene devoted herself to raising her three daughters. Once her
children were grown, Arlene went to work for a local ophthalmologist,
where she became the office manager. Her warmth and attention to detail
was an asset to the growing practice.
Arlene was an active member
of the King’s Daughters Association, Columbia Women’s Club, Assistance
League and VAC in Columbia. She and her husband were also avid Missouri
Tiger fans, sharing many years rooting for their team together.
Arlene’s love of community and social connection was matched only by her
love of family. She cherished family gatherings, where her famous
chicken and dumplings and homemade sourdough bread were always
requested; a good glass of wine was never far from reach.
As a
grandmother, Arlene created lasting memories with her grandchildren
through her annual back-to-school shopping trips. Whether helping them
pick out new shoes or treating them to lunch afterward, she turned
ordinary moments into treasured traditions.
Arlene was preceded
in death by brothers Ambrose, Virgil and Robert Jurgensmeyer, and
sister, Judith Lewis. She is survived by her sisters LaVerne Dubbert and
Emogene Jurgensmeyer, and brothers Joseph Jurgensmeyer, and Charlie
Jurgensmeyer.
She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Elias
“Linnie” Kalaf, and their three daughters: Kimberly Blackburn (David),
Monica Barton (Breck), and Sheila Stewart (Chad). Arlene was a devoted
grandmother to Kayla Stutz (Tyler), Luke Blackburn, Anne Blackburn, Sean
Blackburn, Chas Barbee (Amanda), Joseph Barbee, Jackson Barbee, Austin
Stewart, and Ashley Stewart, and great-grandmother to Molly and Adam
Stutz. Her love for each of them was deep, joyful, and constant.
Arlene’s memory will live on in every family celebration and every
shared toast in her honor. She will be missed beyond words.
The
family extends its thanks to the remarkable caregivers at The Westbury
and St. Croix Hospice.
Memorial contributions in Arlene’s memory
can be made to The Alzheimer’s Association by visiting
https://www.alz.org/, or you can donate by mail at Alzheimer's
Association Attn: Donor Services, 225 N Michigan Ave, Floor 17, Chicago,
IL 60601. If donating by mail please include a note indicating that the
donation is in memory of Arlene Kalaf so the family can be notified of
the donation.
A Rosary service for Arlene will be held at 9:30am
on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church,
903 Bernadette Drive, Columbia, MO. Visitation begins at 10:00am,
followed by a memorial Mass at 11:00am. Lunch will follow in Flanagan
Hall at the church.
Arrangements are under the direction of
Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 E. Ash St., Columbia,
Missouri 65203. Online condolences may be left for the family at
www.parkermillard.com.
Posted online on September 30, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Joseph “Joe” Anthony
Cricchio, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed
away on September 25th, 2025 in Columbia, Missouri. A native of
Brooklyn, New York, Joe was born on October 13th, 1946. Family, faith,
and food were the great passions of Joe’s life, and he had a deep love
for animals. He particularly loved his horses—Shannon, Shaker, and
Beauty—and great danes—Bosco, Diego, Valentine, Murphy, and Oatmeal.
Joe was also known for his incredible work ethic, spending most of
his life working in insurance. His dedication to his work earned him
many awards and recognitions. Still, the family legacy Joe created with
his wife was his most precious accomplishment. To Joe, the most
important thing in life was family.
Joe married Marylyn
Cunningham on May 5th, 1969. Together, they raised five children: Janet,
Mike, Michelle, Dominick, and Daniel. Their five children have thirteen
grandchildren: Tierney, Tynan, Aidan, Brennan, and Kyleigh (born to
Janet and her husband Kayne); Kensie and Cade (born to Mike and his wife
Stacey); Logan, Kaleb, and Alexis (born to Michelle and her husband
Jason); Enzo (born to Dominick and his wife Yujiao); and Andrew and
Addison (born to Daniel and his wife Stephanie). At the time of his
passing, Joe also had eight great-grandchildren: Jude, Atlas, Georgia,
Kimber, Kabryn, Dawsen, Colter and Rory. Joe loved to make you laugh,
never hesitating to share a silly joke or riddle with his children and
grandchildren. With his great-grandchildren, Joe would amuse them with
funny faces and his Donald Duck impression. In his last days, Joe was
surrounded by family.
Joe joined The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-Day Saints in 1981 and dedicated much of his time to church
service. Joe found comfort and purpose in his deeply held beliefs and
was always willing to lend a hand and take an active role in his church
community. He was particularly adored by the youth he taught in Sunday
School and the missionaries he always welcomed into his home for a meal.
Joe found great joy in cooking for his loved ones. For years, Joe
would host family pasta nights nearly every Sunday night. These nights
were loud—full of love, laughter, and Joe shouting “EVERYBODY OUT OF THE
WAY” as he carried the pot of boiling water to drain in the sink. Joe
was also known for shouting “TOOTS” any time he needed Marylyn’s
attention (pronounced like “tootsie” without the “ie”). Most of all, Joe
will be remembered for his boisterous rendition of “Happy Birthday,”
which he took much joy in singing (if it can be called that). If a
family member was traveling, he would still make sure they were fed—Joe
had an uncanny ability to tell you where the nearest and best food was
along any part of nearly any highway within the United States. If he
called you on a road trip, he would ask what mile marker you most
recently passed and he could always tell you what food or attractions
were nearby, with astonishing accuracy.
With Italian roots, Joe
was a passionate and tenacious man whose love for his family was fierce
and knew no bounds. Joe knew how to create hours in a day that didn’t
exist to be near his loved ones, despite their geographic location. He
will be greatly missed, but live on forever in the hearts and memories
of those who knew him.
Funeral services will be held at 6:30 p.m.
on Friday, October 3, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, 4708 Highlands Pkwy, Columbia, MO 65203. Visitation will be held
at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the church until the time of
service.
Posted online on September 28, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Robert H. Jett, Sr.,
85, of Columbia passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025, at Boone
Hospital Center.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at
11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel.
The family will receive friends at a visitation one hour prior to the
service. Military Honors will follow the service.
Mr. Jett was
born on September 11, 1940, in Terra Haute, Indiana, a son of the late
Robert E. Jett and Ruth (McGaughey) Jett. On May 28, 1982, he married
Celesta Thralls in Columbia, and they were married for 43 years. Robert
served his country for 6 years in the U. S, Navy. Robert retired from
GTE as installation/repairman after 33 years. He was involved with the
CERT program with the City of Columbia, was a weather spotter and ham
radio operator. He was loved by his family as a husband, father,
grandfather and great grandfather.
In addition to his wife,
Robert is survived by two sons, Robert H. Jett, Jr. (Recca) and Raymond
Jett (Robin); three daughters Juanita Winegar, Julie Powers (Terry),
Janice Henry (Jeff), numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and a
couple of great great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents,
his daughter, Adlena Jean Jett preceded him in death.
Donations
can be made to American Heart Association, c/o Bach-Yager Funeral
Chapel, 1610 N. Garth Ave., Columbia, MO 65202.
Bach-Yager
Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Jett family.
Online
condolences and tributes may be shared with the family at
www.bachyager.com.
Posted online on October 09, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Bruna (Ruggiero)
Ortbals, of Argyle, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished
grandmother, and nurturing friend to countless people, passed away at
her home on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the age of 74. She died on
the very land of the century farm she shared with her husband, a place
she deeply loved.
Bruna was born on June 10, 1951, in Reggio
Calabria, Italy, the daughter of Joseph and Grace Ruggiero. She and her
family moved to Elmira, NY, at the age of 12 years old. Her life took a
wonderfully unexpected turn when she met her future husband, James
Ortbals, while he was serving in the United States Marine Corps. They
built a beautiful life together, marrying on December 5, 1970, in
Elmira, New York.
The couple eventually settled in Columbia,
Missouri, where Bruna established her life's true calling: Sunshine
Acres Daycare. For over 35 years, Bruna owned and operated the daycare
and preschool, creating a warm, safe, and enriching environment where
hundreds of children thrived. Her greatest joy was fostering a space
where every child felt loved and secure. She was part of many early
childhood education organizations during her career.
Later in
life, Bruna returned to her simple, deep connection with nature. She
loved walking the quiet trails of her Ortbals century farm in Argyle,
tending to her many beloved pets, and pouring her passion into her
spectacular flower and vegetable gardens. Above all, her heart belonged
to her family. She fiercely loved her five grandchildren, who were the
light of her life.
Bruna's quiet strength, loving heart, and
commitment to nurturing others, whether people, flowers, or animals,
were evident to all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.
Survivors include her husband, Jim Ortbals, Argyle; two children,
Phillip (Safire) Ortbals, Hartsburg, Sara (Andrew) Brown, Tampa,
Florida; five grandchildren, Ezra and Jude Ortbals, Adeline, Serena and
Julian Brown; two siblings, Tony (Maurina) Ruggiero, and Mario
(Elizabeth) Ruggiero, all of Elmira, New York.
She was preceded
in death by her parents.
Bruna was a member of St. Boniface
Catholic Church in Koeltztown.
Private family services and burial
were held at St. Boniface Catholic Church.
Services entrusted to
Trimble Funeral Homes - Westphalia.
trimblefunerals.com
Posted online on October 08, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Elizabeth
Donnell Nelms – sister, wife, mother, and teacher – passed away
peacefully in her home in Columbia, Missouri, on October 1, 2025.
Elizabeth (“Beth”) was born in Lebanon, Tennessee, on August 28,
1940, the second of seven children of Lindsey Donnell and Elizabeth
Bryan Donnell. The family was one of a kind, as all seven Donnell
children – Lynn, Beth, Ellen, Mark, Mary Ann, Robin, and Susan – were
raised to be as warm as a Tennessee sunset and as welcoming as a shaded
porch swing.
Beth graduated valedictorian of Lebanon High School,
where she was the editor-in-chief of the school paper and was even the
Homecoming Queen, things her children and grandchildren only learned
when going through her old yearbooks because, though she was rarely
short on words, she was not one to brag (well, not on herself at least).
She attended David Lipscomb College and graduated in 1962 with a
degree in English. It was during her senior year at Lipscomb when Beth
met and fell in love with Lipscomb alum, Ben Frank Nelms. They married
on December 27, 1962, and started a grand adventure of teaching that led
them from Nashville (TN) to Abilene (TX) to Iowa City (IA) to Columbia
(MO) to Gainesville (FL), and finally back to Columbia in their
retirement. Beth and Ben are survived by five children: Keats (Fiona)
Nelms, Robert Nelms, Elizabeth (James Hudson) Frank, Katherine (Steve)
Hughes, and Benjamin Nelms; five grandchildren: Abigail (Brandon)
Weigel, Leigh Hughes, Aislinn Hughes, Jackson Nelms, and Joshua Nelms;
and one great-grandchild, Adler Weigel.
Those who knew Beth
probably know that she felt her greatest accomplishment was her family,
and that she was most proud of, and thankful for, her five children. But
we (her children) think it should be the other way around: It is we who
are proud of, and thankful for, our mom.
We are proud of her
accomplishments in her education and teaching but thankful she dedicated
so many years to raise the five of us – to breathe creativity into our
minds, feed strength in our bodies, laugh joy into our days, and to sing
tenderness into our hearts.
We are proud of her myriad talents –
like sewing, singing, sports, and creative writing – and thankful for
the untold number of prom dresses she made, pants she patched, events
she attended, and meaningful hand-written letters she wrote faithfully
through the years.
We are proud of her courage and sense for
adventure and thankful she trusted us to wander the woods, ponds,
streams, and waterfalls of life – both literal and figurative. Rather
than call us down from danger, she would instead encourage us to climb
up the towering trees of Wolcott Woods to nestle on our favorite
branches to read or daydream, or both.
We are proud of her innate
sense to contribute in some of the most important ways – teaching adult
reading classes, volunteering at nursing homes, helping with programs at
the library, and teaching high school English – and thankful that she
often took us along, so that we might become wired the same.
We
are proud of her for being steadfast in marriage for 61 years and
thankful that she was one of two essential partners who truly needed
each other.
Beth was widowed in 2023, and for the first time in
her then-82 years of life, she lived on her own. This was her unwavering
choice and, while it was not always easy, she embraced every challenge
with a smile and a fearless attitude. We are proud that she did not
mourn the things that degraded with age; rather, she made sure to
celebrate what remained. We are thankful that she was always the center
of gravity for our family, to the very end. She was, as her daughter
Elizabeth put it best, “Our first love,” something that will never
change.
Our friend, teacher, and mother on earth is now our
sister in eternity.
“This is the day the Lord has made. We will
rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalms 118:24.
Friends and family
are warmly invited to celebrate Beth’s life on Saturday, November 1,
2025, at the Montminy Gallery, Veranda, and Gazebo at Nifong Park in
Columbia, MO. Please join us for an open house from 1 to 3 p.m., with a
brief program at 2 p.m. (Note: Another memorial event to celebrate the
lives of both Ben and Beth, near their families in their original home
state of Tennessee, will be forthcoming.).
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East
Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203
Kenneth Loem Rall Obituary
Dr. Kenneth Loem
Rall, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather,
passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, at the age of 90.
Ken
was born on February 11,1935 to Harold and Lola Emma Freudenburg in
Independence, Missouri. Ken was the youngest of five children and
following the passing of his mother at his birth, he was lovingly
adopted by his mother’s sister and her husband who raised him as an only
child. He graduated from Central Missouri State University in 1956,
where he met his first wife, Sara Thoma. They were married in 1956. He
went on to graduate from the University of Missouri School of Medicine
in 1960 and completed his residency in Radiology in 1964. He deeply
loved practicing medicine and was devoted to his patients and colleagues
throughout his career. Ken served in the U.S. Army Medical Core-Redstone
Arsenal in Alabama from 1964-1966. He was active in the Missouri State
Medical Association.
As their family grew to include three
children, Ken was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church,
where he served as an Elder, Deacon, and Sunday School teacher; and he
gave many years of service to the Boy Scouts of America as Scoutmaster
of Troop 3. In the early 1970s, Ken decided to buy a farm to keep his
children “out of trouble,” though it also allowed him to relive fond
memories of his own youth when he lived on a farm in Sibley, Missouri.
In his early years in Columbia, Ken found a welcoming community at
his church where he made many lifelong friends. Together, they cheered
on the Missouri Tigers, attending countless games and sharing in the joy
of camaraderie. Over the years, this close circle gathered often,
celebrated milestones, and traveled together.
Known for his wry
sense of humor and strong work ethic, Ken approached life with quiet
determination and sharp intellect. His humor was dry and often
unexpected but always perceptive, leaving those around him smiling at
his understated wit and distinctive, occasionally eccentric, outlook on
life. An avid reader, Ken devoured books of every genre, especially
history and biographies. As his children married and grandchildren
arrived, he delighted in family beach vacations, despite his
good-natured admission to being “seasick”.
In 2008, Ken married
Betsy Baker, with whom he shared many years of companionship and service
to church and community. His later years were also filled with
gardening, visiting estate sales, volunteering, and attending the
graduations and weddings of his grandchildren.
Kenneth is
survived by his wife of 17 years, Betsy Baker Rall; his children Susan
(Edward) Bloomfield and Kurt (Jane) Rall; and his grandchildren: Jason
(Andrea) Rall, Kristen (Luke) Mitchell, Katelyn Rall, Morgan Souers,
Brett (Sarah) Lenz, Kyle (Mary) Rall, Dr. Natalie (Ethan) Rall, Michael
Rall, and Sophia Rall, stepsons Rick (Rasha) Baker, and John Baker, and
11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by Sara Thoma Rall, his
devoted wife of 46 years, and by his son, Kenneth Rall, Jr.
A
memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 1:00
p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 16 Hitt Street, Columbia, Missouri.
Reception will follow, with inurnment at Memorial Funeral Home after the
reception. Family and friends are invited to gather in thanksgiving and
remembrance to pay tribute to Dr. Rall’s life.
In lieu of
flowers, memorial gifts are suggested to First Presbyterian Church, 16
Hitt Street, Columbia, MO 65201. Gifts can be made by cash, check,
(payable to FPC) or online through the church website
www.fpccolumbia.org under the “Give” tab. Please include “Ken Rall” in
the memo line or the online “in memory of” space.
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 The Columbia Missourian
Carrie
Lucille Eiffert (Lucy), 86, of Columbia, MO, died at home on Thursday,
October 16, 2025, surrounded by family.
Lucy was born on March 6,
1939, in Dover, Tennessee. She attended Clarksville High School until
she discovered a treasure in the person of her husband of 69 years,
Howard Eiffert, who was stationed at nearby Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
Howard and Lucy married on December 17, 1955. Lucy was 16. After
Howard’s military service, they moved to Kirksville, Missouri, for three
years so Howard could attend Northeast Missouri State Teachers College.
Lucy joined Howard in working to support his education. They moved to
Columbia in 1959.
Having 3 children, constructing two homes, and
helping Howard start Boone County Lumber Company, made her first 10
years of marriage busy. After the kids were in school, Lucy started
working in the family business. “Howard and Lucy” was how friends and
family referred to the couple. They did everything together and were
each other’s best friend.
Lucy loved to travel, explore, shop,
and share the world with her family and friends. More than anything,
Lucy loved traveling and exploring with Howard by motorcycle. Riding
together on the open road, feeling the wind in their faces, was their
greatest pleasure and how they experienced most of North America, from
Mexico to Alaska.
Those who knew Lucy loved her sense of
adventure, good humor, steadfast loyalty, and support. Lucy was often
the only good friend you needed. Many have shared stories of how Howard
and Lucy, their relationship, their commitment to common goals, their
selfless friendships, influenced their lives.
Lucy endured many
health challenges with courage and amazing resilience. She suffered
through kidney failure, a kidney transplant, losing the kidney
transplant to cancer, and 17½ years of dialysis. In her later years, she
was committed to caring for and watching over her beloved husband until
his death in March of 2025. She lived her vow, “’till death do us part,”
to the fullest.
Lucy, is survived by her three children, Brad
(Kristin) Eiffert, Columbia, MO; Greg (Terri) Eiffert, Columbia, MO; and
Sharon (Darryl) Ward, Centralia, MO; her grandchildren, Kelsey (Matt)
Lunceford, Centralia, MO; Tyler Ward, Hico, TX; Samantha Eiffert,
Carrboro, NC; Leah (Daniel) Lindaman, Columbia, MO; Kayla (Sam) Knetzer,
Westminster, CO; Ryan Eiffert, Memphis, TN; William (Bianca) Eiffert,
New York, NY; Benjamin Eiffert, Columbia, MO; and great-grand daughters,
Corinne and Colette Lindaman, Columbia, MO. She is also survived by her
sisters, Patsy Knight, Cunningham, TN; June Gilpin, Columbia, MO; and
her brother, Danny Collins, Clarksville, TN.
Lucy was preceded in
death by her parents, Jesse D. Collins and Mary Elizabeth Dowdy Collins,
brother James Lurton Collins, sister Ann Shaw, and daughter Sherry Lynn
Eiffert.
In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the
National Kidney Foundation.
The family wishes to acknowledge the
care provided by The Senior Company and Navigate Wellness. Their
professional care allowed Lucy to remain in her home until the end. They
cared for Lucy and her family with love, support, compassion, and
guidance during a difficult time.
Condolences and fond memories
may be shared at www.memorilafuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Posted online on October 29, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Beverly Sue Steen
(née Goodwin) 82, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully
surrounded by family on 10/27/2025.
Beverly (aka “Freddie” to old
friends and “Cookie” to family) was born in St Louis, MO to Roe Given
Goodwin and Pearl Lureen Cohen on 12/22/1942.
Beverly dedicated
much of her life to caring for others as a registered nurse and friend.
Her quirky wit and unwavering honesty touched everyone who knew her. She
was known for her love of casino adventures, travel, stocking up on
goods and supplies to help others, and sharing her well-earned advice
with those around her. Beverly was also deeply passionate about politics
and was quick to engage in lively discussions, regardless of the
setting.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers,
Gus and Edward. She is survived by her daughters, Marla Steen Perryman
(Jason) and Margaret Watson (Tharon Kirkman); her grandchildren Monica
(Joe) Fulkerson, Danielle (Josh) White, Kayla Dyer (Nicholas Hutson),
Krysten (Avery) Wuerfele, and Montana Watson; her great-grandchildren
Patrick, Benjamin, and Kaylee; and her brothers Butch (Kay) Goodwin and
Kim (Margie) Goodwin.
An informal visitation will be held at 4150
Bethel St, Columbia MO on 11/22/2025 from 11-1 where friends and family
are invited to gather and celebrate Beverly’s life.
Beverly will
be remembered for her strength and the care she gave to others. Memorial
donations are suggested to The Wardrobe, PO Box 143, Columbia MO 65205.
Posted online on November 19, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Arlene Fay
Cavanaugh, age 88, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on
November 8, 2025. She was born on May 6, 1937, in Wilton, Missouri, to
John Scruggs and Savilla Sapp Scruggs.
Arlene was a devoted
mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who loved her family above
all else. Throughout her life she worked at Square D, Walmart, Subway,
and Dollar Tree, where she enjoyed staying busy and connecting with the
people around her. Her warm personality and friendly nature made her
well known by many.
Arlene loved the simple joys in life. She
enjoyed going to her grand and great-grandkids’ ball games, shopping,
and spending time with her loved ones.
She was preceded in death
by her parents, her husband Morris Cavanaugh, her children Teresa
Cavanaugh and Robert Cavanaugh, and her siblings Genevea Shettlesworth,
Vera Ploeger, W. M. Lewis “Buddy” Scruggs, Ray Scruggs, Kenneth Scruggs,
Norman Scruggs, and Katherine Roberts.
Arlene is survived by her
children, Morris Cavanaugh Jr. (Carol), James Cavanaugh Sr., Colleen
Decker (Ted), and Kayla Cavanaugh. She also leaves behind her
daughter-in-law Anna Cavanaugh, along with many grandchildren,
great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family
members who loved her dearly.
A celebration of her life will be
held on Monday, November 24, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Nilson-Millard
Cremation & Burial Center.5611 E. St. Charles Rd. Columbia MO. The
family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Heart Association.
Arlene will be remembered for her gentle heart, her dedication to
her family, and the joy she brought into the lives of those who knew
her. She will be deeply missed.
Arrangements are under the care
of Nilson-Millard Cremation & Burial Center.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service &
Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203
Dr. Kul B. Aggarwal
Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing
of Dr. Kul B. Aggarwal, who departed this life on November 27th at his
home in Columbia. Kul was one of those rare human beings who was as
extraordinarily brilliant as he was kind. He was a true blessing to
everyone who knew and loved him.
Kul was born in Nairobi, Kenya
where his father had a sawmill business. He had a wonderful childhood in
Kenya. Soon after moving back to India with his family, at the age of 14
years old, Kul lost his beloved father.
Dr. Aggarwal graduated
from Amritsar Medical College in Punjab in 1975 and went on to touch
countless lives as a dedicated physician with his unwavering compassion
for the next 50 years. He never stopped learning nor teaching. He was
revered by both his patients and his fellow physicians, many of whom
were fortunate enough to be trained under his calm and supportive
guidance. His passion for his field, led him to start the Interventional
Cardiology fellowship at the University of Missouri School of Medicine.
On his retirement, a teaching award was dedicated and named in his
honor.
Kul and Archna were married in 1979 and raised two
daughters together while traveling the world, always sacrificing for
them and showing them the true meaning of the word love. After settling
in the United States in 1989, Kul still took his family on the most
memorable adventures around the globe. These precious moments he created
for them will forever warm the hearts of his family. His great sense of
humor was a gift, one he always used to uplift those around him, never
talking poorly of anyone. Nothing will ever replace his gracious smile
and his noble soul, and he will live on when we emulate him, in our kind
words and good deeds.
Kul was preceded in death by his father,
Labhu Ram Aggarwal, his mother, Kaushalya Devi Aggarwal, and his
brother, Lajpat Rai Aggarwal. He is survived by his wife of 46 years,
Archna Aggarwal, his daughter, Ruchi Aggarwal and her family, his
daughter Neha Aggarwal, his brother Bharat Aggarwal, nieces and nephews,
and grandchildren.
Family will receive friends and relatives
Tuesday, December 2, 2025 for Antim Sanskaar [Hindu Last Rites] from
1:00 - 2:00 pm. Viewing and cremation rites will be held from 2:00 –
2:30 pm with a remembrance service and sharing of memories to follow
from 2:30 – 4:00 pm at Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory.
Please come and attend any and all parts you feel comfortable. Live
stream will be found on Dr. Kul's tribute page located below this
obituary.
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 11, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Clydia Joy Aiyana Honovi;
born in Macon, Missouri April 10, 1952. Passed away peacefully in her
sleep in Columbia, Missouri Saturday November 29th, 2025. Age 73.
Joy attended Stephens College as an undergrad and the University of
Missouri for a Masters of Social Work. Joy was active with the Girl
Scouts and Boy Scouts. A convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-Day-Saints in 1980. She served “the church” in numerous callings
over five decades. She was especially known for her lessons in primary
school. Joy will be remembered fondly for her wit and wisdom that she
shared with her loved ones. Some of her best lines: “I’m the mom; that’s
why.” “Life’s not fair and it’s my job to keep it that way.” “Well”
Preceded in death by both parents, her son David Gelvin Stevenson,
daughter Rebecca Suzanne Patillo and daughter in law Candace Ann
Stevenson.
Survived by two sisters and one brother. Daughter
Nancy Ellen Wright. Sons George Joseph Stevenson IV, Bartley Milam
Stevenson, and Johnathan Mark Stevenson. Seven Grandchildren: Elizabeth
Nicole Schuck, Zoe Georgina Honovi, J.J. Wharton, Eleanor America
Wharton, Audrey Lucille Joseph, Brigid Gelvin Michelle Hollands, and
Taylor Dawn Honovi. One great grandson. And many aunts, uncles, and
cousins.
In lieu of flowers please consider donations to:
Girl
Scouts of America.
Breast Cancer Research Foundation
give.bcrf.org.
Posted online on December
09, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Nancy Jo Cole, 73, of
Columbia, MO, died December 6, 2025, at Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas
City, MO surrounded by her family. She was born in St. Louis, Missouri
on August 31, 1952, to Robert and Ann (Mahan) Fischer.
Nancy
attended Normandy High School, graduating in 1970, and went on to earn
her degree from the University of Missouri in 1974. She met the love of
her life, Richard Cole, in biology class at Mizzou. The two later sat
next to each other at graduation—Richard even sneaking out of his
assigned seat just to be beside her—a moment they would remember for the
rest of their lives.
She married Richard Cole on June 1, 1973, in
St. Louis, Missouri, at Third Baptist Church. Nancy and Richard’s
wedding was especially meaningful to their families, as Richard’s
brother, a Catholic priest, co-officiated. It was the first marriage in
that church jointly performed by both a Catholic and a Baptist minister.
To this union, two boys were born, who she was proud of every day.
Prior to retirement she worked as the Director of Cancer
Registration at the University of Missouri, where she dedicated her
career to supporting cancer research, data accuracy, and the mission of
improving patient outcomes.
Nancy enjoyed arts and crafts,
spending time shopping at Amish farms, and absolutely anything that
involved her grandchildren. She also devoted many hours to volunteering
at The Love Seat, serving her community with the same warm spirit she
showed her family.
Survivors include her husband, Richard Cole;
her two sons, Kirby and his wife Kelli, Jon and his wife Molly; her
grandchildren, Macie, Brody, Cullen, Ava, and Ella; one great grandchild
Murphie; and her brother Fred and his wife Susan.
Nancy was
preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Betsy—who was surely
the first to welcome her into heaven.
Donations to Saint Luke’s
Foundation would be greatly appreciated. If sending flowers, the family
asks that you please fill the room with purple—Nancy’s favorite color
and a beautiful reflection of her vibrant spirit.
Words of
comfort and support may be shared at the visitation, which will be
Thursday, 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at the Memorial Funeral Home Chapel.
Services honoring and celebrating Nancy’s life will be Saturday,
December 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at The Crossing Church. Committal
prayers and inurnment will be held at a later date.
Posted online on December 13, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily
Tribune
Harlan
Palm of Columbia, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at
The Bluffs in Columbia. He was born on July 19, 1943, in Canby,
Minnesota, to Ernest and Elmira (Berge) Palm.
Harlan was a proud
graduate of Canby High School. His love for agriculture led him to South
Dakota State University in Brookings, where he earned his bachelor’s
degree. Eager to continue his education, he moved to Columbia, Missouri,
and attended the University of Missouri, completing both his master’s
degree and his PhD in agronomy.
Prior to retirement, Harlan
worked for the DuPont Company in Wilmington, Delaware, retiring in 1999.
Never one to remain idle, he continued his career after retirement by
joining the University of Missouri as a research professor in
agricultural engineering, a position he held until retiring once more in
2009.
Harlan married Betty Throckmorton on August 10, 1968, in
Columbia, Missouri. To this union two children were born, Melanie and
Brandon.
Survivors include his wife, Betty Palm of Columbia; his
children, Melanie Palm of San Diego, California, and Brandon Palm of
Columbia, Missouri; his brother, Gordon Palm of Canby, Minnesota; along
with other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his
parents and his sister, Deloris Lee.
A man of deep faith and
community commitment, Harlan was a devoted member of St. Andrews
Lutheran Church. He was also actively involved in the Missouri Walnut
Council, where he once served as president. He held a genuine enthusiasm
for all things Mizzou, faithfully following the teams and cheering on
every sport with loyal excitement.
Harlan found great joy in
spending time at his farm, nurturing the walnut trees he took such pride
in. An avid outdoorsman, he embraced the peace and challenge of
nature—relishing the thrill of a big catch while fishing and the
camaraderie and adventure that came with a good hunt.
In lieu of
flowers, memorial contributions to St. Andrews Lutheran Church would be
appreciated.
Words of comfort and support may be shared with the
family at the visitation on Monday, December 15, 2025, from 11:30 a.m.
to 1:00 p.m. at St. Andrews Lutheran Church in Columbia, Missouri.
Services honoring and celebrating Harlan’s life will follow at 1:00 p.m.
Committal prayers and burial will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery in
Columbia, Missouri following the service. Arrangements have been
entrusted to Memorial Funeral Home, Columbia, Missouri.
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory &
Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
Chester Lane (CL)
Heyer, 82, Columbia, Missouri passed away on December 10, 2025 at his
home. He was born January 23, 1943 in Higginsville, Missouri to Chester
and Ella (Marsh) Heyer.
Chester graduated from Kirksville University
with degrees in Criminal Law and Psychology. Chester spent 26 years as a
Columbia Police Officer. After retiring from the police force, he worked
10 years for Missouri’s Probation and Parole, and then served 13 years
as a pastor at West Park Methodist Church in Moberly. He liked to joke
“I put them away. I let them out. And then I helped them stay out.” Even
in difficult interactions, Chester showed respect and consideration;
treating each person as a human being.
One never to sit idle,
Chester was drawn to people and social activities. He loved volunteering
at the local Food Bank, calling Square Dances, and teaching Square and
Round Dancing. He emceed talent nights for the local Senior Center, was
assistant Boy Scout Leader and later Scout Master. But above all, he
loved spending time with his family. Whether cheering for his children
or grandchildren at sports games, playing board games at home or taking
walks with his wife, his family was first in all he did.
Chester
is survived by his wife of sixty-two years, Elizabeth; his children
Paula Naugle (Shawn) and Mark Heyer (Charlette); three grandsons,
Cameron (Haley) and Ryan (Stephanie) Naugle, and Cody Heyer; three
great-grandchildren Finley, Keeley, and Oliver Naugle. He is also
survived by one sister Vivian Apprill (Larry), one brother Floyd Heyer
(Kathy) and several nieces and nephews.
Chester will be
remembered for his love for God and his family. His willingness to help
whomever and wherever it was needed. His sense-of-humor and wisdom was
well known by all who met him.
In lieu of flowers, the family
requests donations be made to Oakland Christian Church at 2929 E Oakland
Church Rd. Columbia, MO 65201 or the Central Missouri Food Bank at 2101
Vandiver Dr. Columbia, MO 65202.
Friends and family may gather,
Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from 10-11am at Memorial Funeral Home 1217
Business Loop 70 West Columbia, MO. His Celebration of Life will begin
at 11am, followed by burial in Memorial Park Cemetery.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeancemetery.com.
Posted online on January 16, 2026
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Jack Daniel
Endicott, 83, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on December 12, 2025,
in Columbia.
Jack was born on July 6, 1942, in Evansville,
Indiana, to Byrd Endicott and Mary Helen Phillips. During his high
school years, he was raised by his grandmother, Lois—a time he often
recalled fondly and with humor, remarking that it was when he "fattened
up enough to make it to the Marines." Immediately following high school,
he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, often saying that
"the Marines don't make you a man; they let you know what kind of man
you are."
He later attended Central Missouri State University,
where he met and married Mary Michael Auer in 1966. Together, they
welcomed their daughter, Laura Rebecca, in 1970. Jack earned his
master's degree in history from CMSU and later pursued doctoral studies
in history at the University of Missouri. True to his practical nature,
Jack ultimately decided the program felt repetitive and not aligned with
how he wanted to spend his time. He chose instead to step away and
devote himself to hands-on work—particularly woodworking—creating many
furniture pieces that filled his home with both purpose and
craftsmanship.
Jack later joined State Farm Insurance Company,
where he worked for many years before retiring. Throughout his career
with State Farm, Jack made it a priority to run daily on the MKT Trail,
often saying the routine helped him clear his head and stay grounded.
A devoted fan of the Missouri Tigers, Jack loved spending Saturdays
tailgating and attending games with his State Farm friends. In later
years, he spent countless hours watching sports on television. Over the
last decade, he also greatly enjoyed watching westerns and television
series on Netflix, finding comfort and familiarity in their stories.
Jack loved music of all genres and maintained a record collection that
entertained multiple generations; he often played back-to-back records
while sharing music and conversation with dear friends. Known for his
great sense of humor, Jack brought smiles and laughter to those around
him with his clever catchphrases and quick wit. His interests included
woodworking, history, civil rights, camping, ecology, and reading.
Jack may not have enjoyed large events or crowds, but in one-on-one
moments, he showed deep care for his people. He was steadfastly loyal,
especially to those who were underprivileged or experiencing hardship,
quietly offering support, presence, and advocacy in ways that often went
unseen but were deeply felt.
Over the last seven years, Jack
especially enjoyed dining regularly at his favorite local eateries,
including Murry's and Perche Creek Diner, and he was always eager to try
the newest restaurants in town. One of his most familiar sayings, "Take
care of number one," became a guiding phrase—embedded in daily life and
carried forward by his close friends and family.
Jack and Mary
Michael were devoted animal lovers whose kindness touched the lives of
countless rescue pets and wildlife. Jack's life was forever changed by
the loss of his wife and daughter, both of whom he deeply loved.
Jack was preceded in death by his sister, Jill Arvin; his beloved
daughter, Laura Rebecca (Endicott) Brockert; and his devoted wife, Mary
Michael (Auer) Endicott.
He is survived by his in-laws, Tom and
Linda Auer of St. Peters, Missouri; Jeanne Marie Perkins of St. Louis,
Missouri; Elaine and Larry MacDonald of La Porte, Texas; and Christine
and Warren Meacham of Indialantic, Florida; eleven nieces and nephews in
Indiana, Kansas, and Missouri; dear friends Amanda Lucas and family of
Columbia, Missouri, and Dennis and Peggy Schupp of Overland Park,
Kansas.
A graveside service will take place in the spring on
Monday, March 23, at 11:30 a.m. CST at Jefferson Barracks National
Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.
Memorial contributions may be
made to the Central Missouri Humane Society or Second Chance of
Columbia.
In honoring Jack's life, those who knew and loved him
will continue to carry his simple wisdom forward—taking care of one
another by first remembering to take care of "number one."
Submitted by, Memorial Funeral Home,
Crematory & Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia
August 8, 1927 –
December 12, 2025
Obituary of Evelyn Louise Yanders
Evelyn Louise
Yanders passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the age of 98. She
was born on August 8, 1927, in Falls City, Nebraska, to David Leo Gatz
and Lena M. (née Trefzer) Gatz, on the family farm her great-grandfather
purchased in the 1870s. She was proud of being a farm girl and of her
father, a successful farmer whom banks trusted enough to extend loans to
during the Depression.
Evelyn graduated from Falls City High
School in 1944 and received a BA in education in 1948 from Peru State
College in Peru, Nebraska. While there, she became Homecoming Queen and
met her future husband.
She married Armon Yanders in Falls City,
Nebraska, on August 1, 1948. They moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, where she
taught second grade until 1953. The couple then lived in Oak Ridge,
Tennessee, and Evanston, Illinois, before her husband entered the U.S.
Navy in 1954. During his naval service, the family moved several times,
including to San Francisco, California, where their first son, Mark, was
born in 1956. After leaving the Navy, they lived in Lombard, Illinois,
where their second son, Kent, was born in 1958. They later lived in
Lansing, Michigan, for ten years and in 1969 settled in Columbia,
Missouri.
Mrs. Yanders was a teacher’s aide at Grant School for
many years. She was active in the University of Missouri Fortnightly
Club and served as its president in 1977. She and her husband were
members of the Columbia Gourmet Group for over forty years.
In
the mid-1970s, Evelyn was among the first people to benefit from a new
type of mammogram, which she credited with saving her life. For more
than a decade after her mastectomy, she volunteered with Reach for
Recovery, providing kits and comfort to cancer patients in the hospital.
She also worked with the American Cancer Society to raise awareness and
funds to fight cancer.
Evelyn kept up with local and national
news. In addition to MSNBC, she subscribed to the Tribune, the Columbia
Missourian, and her beloved Falls City Journal. A humanitarian, she
cared deeply about women’s rights and the rights of all people. She
never missed a chance to vote and had hoped to see a woman president in
her lifetime.
Mrs. Yanders loved musical and theatrical events at
the University of Missouri and enjoyed attending performances at the
Lyceum Theater with friends. She especially looked forward to visits
from her children and grandchildren and took great pride in their
activities and accomplishments.
Her parents; her husband; a
brother; a sister; and a son preceded Mrs. Yanders in death. She is
survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Kent and Elizabeth Yanders of
Blue Springs, Missouri; her grandchildren, Eric Yanders of Independence,
Missouri, and Samantha Yanders of Ithaca, New York; and her lifelong
friend and cousin, Liz Gatz of Chicago, Illinois.
The family
wishes to thank University Health Lakewood Care Center and its employees
for providing a safe, caring, and kind place for Evelyn to live, as well
as KC Hospice. A private ceremony will take place at Memorial Funeral
Home.
Memorial contributions may be made in Evelyn’s memory to
the Armon F. Yanders Scholarship Fund (Office of Development, 109
Reynolds Alumni Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211), the
American Cancer Society, Planned Parenthood, or The Center Project.
Condolences and fond memories can be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Submitted by, Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East
Ash Street, Columbia MO 65203
Joseph Warren
Filbert, age 75, of Columbia, Missouri passed away peacefully in his
sleep December 15, 2025. Warren was born January 19, 1950, in Council
Bluffs, Iowa, to Warren and Angela (Cruise) Filbert. He graduated from
Iowa State University in 1972 with a degree in Forestry. In 1973, he
moved to Columbia, Missouri and started driving for UPS retiring in 2012
with over 30 years of service.
In 2000, he married Rosalie Dianne
(Caspall), who was his faithful partner and companion until her passing
in 2025. He was a member of Midway Locust Grove Church and met weekly
with the men’s bible study group. He was a wonderful cook and enjoyed
creating and serving dishes every Wednesday to those less fortunate as
part of the church’s Lunch at the Hotel Ministry.
He had many
hobbies and interests, including gardening, hunting, fishing and
collecting and restoring outboard motors. He was an avid sportsman,
traveling extensively to hunt or fish with family and friends.
Even with his diminished health, he was determined to see and experience
everything he could. Only months prior to his passing, he took his son
on a hunting safari to Africa and went salmon fishing in Alaska with a
longtime friend. He was a charter member of Perche Creek Yacht Club,
Safari International, NRA, and a member of the Great 8 1000 chukar
shoot.
He is preceded in death by wife, Dianne Filbert: parents,
Warren and Angela Filbert, and half-sister Judy Fulkerson. He is
survived by son Ryan Filbert and partner Sylvia Lin of St. Louis,
Missouri, grandchildren Tom, Mitchell, and Fisher, and daughter and
son-in-law, Renee and Brett Howard of Town & Country, Missouri, and
their children, Logan and Brady; his stepson, David Caspall of Columbia,
Missouri; brother and sister-in-law, John and Mary Filbert of Council
Bluffs, Iowa; niece Meghan (Omar) of LaFarge, Wisconsin, and their
children Owen and Niles; niece Elizabeth of New York City and
half-sister Susie Ball of Kent, Washington.
Services honoring and
celebrating Warren’s life will be Jan 10, 2025, at 10:30 am at Midway
Locust Grove Church, Boone County, Missouri. Inurnment to immediately
follow.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Midway Locust
Grove 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.
Submitted by, Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610
N. Garth Ave, Columbia MO 65202
Charles Lewis
Roach, 72, of Columbia passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, at
Boone Hospital Center.
Charles, known to his loved ones as
Charlie, was born on November 2, 1953, in Carrollton, Missouri to the
late Orland DeWitt and Charlotte Florene (Bates) Roach.
Charlie
grew up in Carrollton, Missouri where he was a football player and
wrestler in high school. He moved to Columbia, Missouri for college and
attended the University of Missouri where he earned an Associates in
Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Business. Immediately after
college, he worked at Orscheln where he was a CAD/CAM manager for many
years. He moved on to become a manager at 3M in Laser Engineering and
ended his career as a Postman in Hartsburg and Ashland, Missouri. He
loved to spend his free time with his children and grandchildren, all of
whom he was very proud of. He was the best dad and papa there ever was.
He was a huge fan of the Kansas City Chiefs. You could find him any
given Sunday watching the games with his children. Weird Al Yankovic
could always be heard on any stereo of his. He was known as Santa to
many and loved his suspenders. He was active in the community
volunteering at the Columbia Senior Center of Boone County, where he
served as their accountant, he was the treasurer for Cub Scouts Pack #60
and was on the board of the United Credit Union.
Charlie is
survived by his children, Chas Lewis Roach (Krissy) of Columbia, MO,
Tabitha Renee Carter of Columbia, MO, and Micah Elias Roach of Columbia,
MO; nine grandchildren, Marcus, Noah, Madison, Mackenzie, Yaretzee,
Julian, Jeremiah, Declan and Brendan; his sister, Jayne Taylor (Jerry)
of Lexington, MO; four nieces and one nephew; his aunt, Patricia Gross
of Fayetteville, AR and uncle David Bates of Hutchison, KS; and several
cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by
a brother, Robert “Bobby” Eugene Roach.
There will be a
Celebration of Life Service for Charlie at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel on
Friday, January 2, 2026, with the family receiving friends at 11:00am
and services starting at 1:00 p.m.
In leu of flowers, donations
can be made in memory of Charlie to Columbia Senior Center of Boone
County, 1121 Business Loop 70 E, Columbia, MO 65201.
Bach-Yager
Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Roach family.
Posted online on December 30, 2025
Published in Columbia Daily Tribune
Ellen Willett,
93, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully with her youngest
daughter by her side on Friday, December 26, 2025, in Columbia.
Ellen was born on April 11, 1932, in Martinsburg, Missouri, to Bill and
Angie “Bryan” McCown. She grew up on the family farm located near
Martinsburg. Ellen loved to tease her younger brother John and while her
mom worked in the fields with her dad, she honed her cooking skills as a
young child. Eager to move off the farm, she worked various jobs in
places like Kansas City before she attended the University of Missouri
where she majored in psychology. It was at the University of Missouri
where she met her brother’s then roommate Joe Willett who was finishing
his PhD. On December 27, 1955, wearing a red velvet dress, Ellen headed
off with Joe to Fulton, Missouri to get married. Following Joe’s career,
they soon moved to Maryland, then St. Louis, and Fort Worth before
finally returning to Columbia in 1965—the town she always cherished. It
was here where she and Joe lived for over 50 years and raised three
daughters: Cynthia, Lori, and Julie.
Ellen’s passion for politics
and injustice defined her. In the late 1960s, she joined Students for a
Democratic Society (SDS) and protested the Vietnam War. Along with her
daughters, Ellen was active in the Women’s Liberation Movement. Ellen
also saw herself as an advocate for students, especially graduate
students for whom she hosted comedy and music-filled Christmas parties.
Starting in the 1980s, Ellen enjoyed working in the mail room and
University Hospital with colleagues she considered her dearest friends
and strongest allies. Along with standing up for who and what she
believed in, Ellen loved to frequent her favorite restaurants with Joe
on an almost daily basis.
Ellen is survived by her daughters,
Cynthia Willett of Atlanta, Georgia and her husband, Robert Johnson, of
Columbia; Lori Willett of Savannah, Georgia; and Julie Willett and her
husband, Randy McBee, of Lubbock, Texas. She also leaves behind five
grandchildren: Leslie Chiang and her husband, Matthew Aharonov; Liza
Willett and her partner, Mark Megremis; Joseph Boettcher and his wife,
Vickie; Dylan McBee and his wife, Hope Bentley; and Chloe Willett and
her boyfriend, Jacob Stork. Ellen also has two great-granddaughters,
Gabriella Villalobos and Ivy Aharonov, along with other relatives and
many friends who will cherish her memory.
She was preceded in
death by her parents; her husband, Joseph Willett; and her brother and
sister-in-law, John and Carole McCown.
Memorial contributions may
be made to Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia in lieu of flowers.
Caring Hearts and Hands is a nonprofit charitable organization that
provides families emotional support and their loved one’s end-of-life
care—free of charge. For more information, regarding donations please
see https://caringheartandhands.org or send directly to Caring Hearts
and Hands of Columbia, 1307 W Broadway, MO, 65203.
Submitted by
Parker-Millard Funeral Service, April 10, 2026
Kenneth Leon
Greene, age 75, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on December 28, 2025,
at his home surrounded by his family.
Kenneth was born in
Chicago, Illinois, on October 20, 1950, to Kato Gilkey and Anne Greene.
Kenneth, known to all as Kenny, was a skilled artist, mentor, activist,
martial artist, musician and a loyal friend and father.
Kenny
graduated from Sumner High School in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1968.
Following graduation, he attended Forest Park Junior College in St.
Louis before moving to Columbia in September 1970 to attend the
University of Missouri.
During this time, he made remarkable
memories and lifelong friends (some with whom he annually floated the
Gasconade River and traveled to Hot Springs, Arkansas, to bet on the
ponies, until the end).
A self-proclaimed hippie who wasn't
afraid to stick his thumb out and make a new friend, Kenny hitchhiked
out West, visiting Seattle and the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. He
eventually crossed back through Missouri to join thousands of young
people out East, stopping in New York City and participating in anti-war
protests at the National Monument in Washington, D.C.
Kenny
earned his BFA from Columbia College where, years later, he would return
to the classroom as a professor, teaching art classes and jewelry-making
before retiring in 2019. He dedicated thirty years to education,
teaching at William Woods University from 1989 to 2012 before joining
the faculty at Columbia College.
He established Monarch Jewelry
in downtown Columbia in 1984, affectionately dubbing his first shop "The
Hole” in the Catacombs of North Village. Over the years he became a
welcoming beacon for fellow artists and entrepreneurs. His dedication to
the area earned him the honorary title of "Mayor of the North Village
Arts District," where his business remained a beloved haven until his
passing.
Kenny practiced martial arts for over 50 years,
beginning in 1975. He earned his black belt in Ju-Jitsu under Sensei Mel
Brown at the North Village Martial Arts Center, but his lifelong passion
was Tai Chi. Beyond his own practice, he was a generous teacher who
guided hundreds of practitioners in movement and mindfulness.
He
helped establish the CoMo Taiji Qigong community and was awarded the
Silver Life Achievement Award from the World Head Of Family Sokeship
Council in 2015.
Service to the community was a large part of his
life. He was a member of multiple boards, including the City of Columbia
Chamber of Commerce Leadership of Columbia(1997), Columbia Commission on
Cultural Affairs (2002–2009), the Standing Committee for Public Art
(North Village Arts District), the Sharp End Heritage Committee, board
member of the University’s Museum of Art and Archaeology, and the Board
of Directors for Orr Street Studios, and KOPN’s Community Advisory
Committee. He used these platforms to ensure the arts were accessible to
everyone and that they reflected the true diversity and creativity of
the city.
Even in death Kenny continued his generosity, becoming
part of the University of Missouri’s anatomical donation program.
In addition to his professional accomplishments and community
service, Kenny was known for his larger than life presence; always quick
to flash his megawatt smile or offer an encouraging word. He was the
epitome of cool with his natty attire, jaunty hats, quick wit and his
infectious joie de vivre.
Kenny is survived by his partner,
Renita Richmond; his children: Justin Greene (Priscilla) of California,
Michelle Greene of the District of Columbia, and Myah Greene of Texas;
his siblings, Michael Gilkey (Beverly), Annette Greene, Willie
Gilkey-Smith, Kelvin Gilkey, Margaret Gilkey, LaVictory Gilkey-Dorsey
(Otis); 4 grandchildren, 13 nieces and nephews, a large extended family,
and a community full of friends.
Kenny is preceded in death by
his parents, Kato Gilkey and Anne Greene and siblings, Charles (Butch)
Gilkey, Kato Gilkey Jr.
A memorial for Kenneth will be held on
Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at The
Broadway-Elevation Ballroom, 1111 East Broadway, 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.millardfamilychapels.com.