KEWPIE MEMORIAL PAGE
KEWPIES' FAMILY MEMORIAL PAGE
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Class of 1963 Memorial - Class of 1967 Memorial - Class of 1970 Memorial - Class of 1986 Memorial
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Courtesy of Charley Blackmore, Kewpie Classmates Association
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CHARLEY
BLACKMORE
2312 DEER
CREEK CT
COLUMBIA
MO 65201-3564
Those we
love truly never die
Though
year by year the sad memorial wreath--
A ring
and flowers, types of life and death--
Are laid
upon their graves.
Well blessed
is she who has a dear one dead
A friend
she has whose face will never change,
A dear
communion that will not grow strange.
The anchor
of a life is death.
There is
no death, nor change, nor any ending.
Only a
journey, and so many go
That we
who stay at length discern the blending
Of the
two roads, two breaths, two lives, and so
Come to
the high and quiet knowledge that the dead
Are but
ourselves, made beautiful instead.
From,
"Readings on the Philosophy of Death"
Author
Unknown, from "Poetry For Verse Speaking Choir"
Arranged
by, Helen D. Williams
OBITUARIES COURTESY OF "THE COLUMBIA DAILY TRIBUNE"
Mary Wright Novak, Class of 1961, passed away on Thursday April 1, 2021 at her home in Columbia.
Lewis Henry Sutton Jr., Class of 1948, passed away Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at the Fayette Caring Center.
Sharon Ann Brock Sessions, Class of 1972, passed on Monday, March 22, 2021.
Steve Nowell, Class of 1972, passed away Sunday March 7, 2021.
Billy Jack “BJ” Smith, Class of 1953, passed away Wednesday, March 3, 2021.
Anita Faye West Wade, Class of 1959, passed away on March 1, 2021.
Robert Paschang, Class of 1959, passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at his home in Columbia.
Redenna Williams, Class of 2002, passed away on Monday, February 22, 2021 at her home in Columbia.
Kathryn “Kathy” Frala Martin, Class of 1975, passed away at her home in Columbia Sunday, February 21, 2021.
Jo Ann Thomas, Class of 1971, passed away at her home in Winona, Minnesota on Friday, February 19, 2021.
Maya Leah Nicole "Nicki" Wootton, Class of 2006, left us Thursday, February 18, 2021.
Phyllis Elaine Terry Willingham, Class of 1956, passed away Saturday February 13, 2021 at her home in Columbia Missouri.
Ralph Perry Flint, Class of 1969, passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at a Moberly hospital.
Albert Paul "Bunny" Sutton, Class of 1955, passed away February 6, 2021 at his home in Columbia.
Verna Dean (Crane) Price, Class of 1946 passed away at the family home in San Diego, CA on February 5, 2021.
Betty Ann Wade Fenton, Class of 1954, passed away at The Timbers, assisted living home in Holts Summit on Friday, January 29, 2021.
Nellie Aurita Prince Caldwell, Class of 1971, passed away Wednesday, January 27, 2021.
Harley Wayne Hyde, Class of 1963, passed away on Wednesday, January 27, 2021.
Glen Nelson Thurman, Class of 2006, passed away at his home on Sunday, January 24, 2021.
William Emmett Gwatkin, III ("Bill"), Class of 1946, passed away on Jan. 23, 2021.
Jennifer M. (Rybolt) Ethridge, Class of 1997, passed away Wednesday, January 20, 2021.
Charla (Emmons) Kleopfer, Class of 1965, passed away Tuesday, January 19, 2021.
Dennis Whitesides, Class of 1974, passed away on Wednesday, January 6, 2021.
Ronald Lee Burks, Class of 1953, passed away Friday, January 1, 2021.
Libby Coats Ellis, Class of 1971, passed away Friday, January 1, 2021.
Published on January 06, 2021
On Friday, January 1,
2021, Libby Ellis went home to be with the Lord.
Libby was born
on April 3, 1953 in Columbia to Lawrence and Louise (Ferguson) Coats.
She graduated from Hickman High School in 1971, worked at the University
of Missouri Hospital and Clinics for nearly 30 years. On August 21, 1995
she married David Lee Ellis. They have two daughters, Dava Coats and
Melissa Coats, both of Columbia.
Libby enjoyed many aspects of
life. She was an avid sports fan, always rooting for the St. Louis
Cardinals and Mizzou sports teams. She enjoyed reading, scrapbooking,
and talking on the phone. She also enjoyed taking car rides and
listening to gospel music. Her greatest joy in life was being Mema to
her grandkids.
Libby was preceded in death by her father,
Lawrence; mother, Louise; sister, Leta Stemmons; special aunt, Etta Lee
Banister; paternal and maternal grandparents. She is survived by her
husband, David; sister, Lois (Wilfred) Tolson; daughters: Dava and
Melissa (Darrell); grandsons: Treyvon and Jalen Barnes; aunts: Dorothy
(Harold) Hickam, Winnie Freelon; uncles: John Richard (Louise) Ferguson
and Howard (Cora) Turner; special cousins: Doris Ferguson and Kay Smith;
in-laws: Anthony (Glenda) Ellis, Bonita Ellis, Roy Stemmons, Sr.;
step-daughters: Davina and Shanda Schroeder; grandchildren: Jacob, DJ,
Skylar, Emmett; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Family and friends will be received from 10-11 a.m., Saturday, January 9
at Millard Funeral Chapel, 12 E. Ash. Celebration of life will be held
at 11 a.m. at Millard Funeral Chapel. Memorial contributions are
suggested to the Russell Chapel CME Church Building Fund (108 E. Ash,
Columbia, MO 65203).
Arrangements are under the direction of
Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street,
Columbia, MO 65203 573-449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the
family at www.parkermillard.com.
Published by Smith North Little Rock Funeral
Home, 1921 Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114, 501-758-1170.
Ronald Lee Burks, 85,
of North Little Rock went to his heavenly home on January 1, 2021 after
a prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was born October 17,
1935 in Columbia, Missouri, to the late Lloyd and Elma Burks. He was a
U.S. Navy veteran who served during the Korean War and a 32nd Degree
Mason. He retired after a successful sales career with Bryan Smokey
Hollow Meats. In 1989, he was named nationwide “Salesman of the Year.”
Ronald was a kind, gentle and caring Christian man who loved to
travel and spend time with his family and friends. He was always so
proud of his family and their accomplishments and never missed an
opportunity to tell each how proud he was of them. Even though the
effects of Alzheimer’s diminished his mind, the sight or sound of
family- especially the children- always brought a gleam to his eyes. As
a caring Christian man, he was always far more concerned with the needs
of others over his own. Ronald was a giver, not a taker, and always
seemed to see the good in other people regardless of their situations or
standing.
He was a longtime member of Central Baptist Church in
NLR, which held a special place in his heart, and where he had many
loving friends, taught Sunday School, and sang in the choir.
He
was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bernice Burks; sister, Debbie
Smith of Columbia, MO and a stepdaughter, Gina Larkin of NLR. He is
survived by his sons, Ronnie Burks (Brenda) of Maumelle; Randy Burks of
Johnstown, CO, and Rick Burks (Yvette) of Denton, NC; stepson, Brian
Bentley of NLR; sisters, Sue Farlow of Asheboro, NC and Martha Strawn of
Spring, TX; 14 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces
and nephews.
The family would like to thank the doctors-
especially Dr. Scott Harrington- nurses and staff at Baptist Springhill
Medical Center for their loving care, concern, and lifesaving efforts.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions and concerns, a private family
visitation and memorial service will be conducted for family members
only. Interment with military honors will be held at the Arkansas State
Veterans Cemetery in NLR.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations
may be made to the following which were dear to Ronald’s heart- Central
Baptist Church, 5200 Fairway Ave, NLR, AR, 72116 or Special Olympics AR,
2115 Main Street, NLR, AR 72114.
Arrangements by Smith North
Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St, North Little Rock, AR 72114,
501-758-1170.
Published on January
08, 2021
Dennis
Whitesides passed away on January 6, 2021 after a hard-fought battle
with cancer.
There will be no service. He will be interred at
Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia. A luncheon in his honor will be held
at a later date when we all are vaccinated for COVID-19.
He was
born in Columbia on September 29, 1956 to Donald and Laverne Whitesides.
His parents preceded him in death. He was a lifelong Columbia resident,
graduating from Hickman High School in 1974. Dennis worked in the lumber
business for 40 years.
Dennis was a devoted husband to his wife
of 30 years, Pranny Cook Whitesides, and she survives. Along with his
wife, Dennis is survived by his sister, Debbie Sheldon (Roger); his son,
Eric Whitesides; three beloved grandchildren: Grayson, Jackson and Aria;
and adoring nieces and nephews.
He loved traveling with his wife,
always returning with adventurous tales to tell, whether that was from
San Diego, New Orleans, Milwaukee, Chicago, Las Vegas or their countless
St. Louis Baseball Cardinal trips.
Dennis was an avid fan,
loving: Cardinal Baseball, MU Tigers Football and Basketball, the Kansas
City Chiefs and of course Tropical Liqueurs.
Dennis will be
missed immensely. The absence of his quiet steadiness, and gentle humor
will leave an empty space in his family.
In lieu of flowers,
donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Online
condolences may be shared at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Published on January 24, 2021
Charla (Emmons)
Kleopfer, of Columbia, passed into eternity January 19, 2021. Her
earthly passage ended in her home, encircled by her husband Lynn of 39
years and daughters Natalie R. Thomas, Kim P. Wuest, Nichol A. Gottman,
their husbands, and newborn granddaughter. Charla’s legacy is known to
her family and friends for interests in music, research in genealogy and
family history, and unrestrained love and charity for all.
Charla
was born in Chickasha, Oklahoma June 5, 1947 to Charles L. Emmons and
Leah L. (Van Kirk) Emmons. She spent her early life in Oklahoma and
Amarillo, Texas where her parents were teachers. She moved to Columbia
in 1957 with her parents. Her father, Charles, was for 25 years an
accomplished University of Missouri Professor of Instrumental Music and
served as Director of Bands, Conductor of the University Philharmonic
Orchestra and Chairman of the Music Department.
To no surprise,
Charla followed her father’s lead and herself became an accomplished
musician. She enrolled at Mizzou and supplemented her studies as a
member of Marching Mizzou, as well as one of the first Golden Girls,
which her father Charles founded in 1957. She graduated from the
University of Missouri in 1969 with a BA in History. She went on to work
for the state historical society. In 1979, Charla received her Masters
of Arts in Library Science from the University of Missouri, where she
contemporaneously built her career as a librarian in the medical
library.
Charla and Lynn Kleopfer met in 1980 at the University
of Missouri Health Sciences library, while he was doing his medical
residency. They married Dec. 12, 1981 and subsequently spent 39
beautiful years together in Columbia. In addition to their tenured time
in Columbia, Charla, Lynn, and their daughters accomplished many family
excursions to condos in Florida and Branson, and far off destinations in
America and Europe to enjoy Charla’s passion for history and genealogy.
Charla truly felt blessed to cherish these adventures away with her
family.
Charla was outgoing and gregarious and gave her time and
resources generously to many family, friends, and charitable
organizations. She was a member of the Daughters of the American
Revolution, New England Historic Genealogical Society, Kentucky
Historical Society, Czechoslovak Genealogical Society International,
Ohio Genealogical Society and numerous other state and local societies.
She became an expert in her family and friend’s genealogy and created
family history books which she shared all across the country. She also
enjoyed many hobbies, most of all to scrapbook and quilt with her best
friend Marcia Willis.
Charla never met a stranger and was always
making new friends. She was an extremely giving person with passion to
help others anywhere there was a need. She loved those around her with
so much love and intensity, that if you were lucky enough to know her,
you absolutely felt her generosity and compassion.
Charla is
survived by her husband of 39 years, Lynn Kleopfer; daughters and
sons-in-law: Zach and Nichol Gottman, Michael and Kim Wuest and Jacob
and Natalie Thomas; two grandchildren and her aunt, Dot Van Kirk of
Arizona.
Private services will be held on Sunday, January 24. In
lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Charles
Emmons Scholarship or Leah Lou Emmons Orchestra-String Music Scholarship
at the University of Missouri. Donations can be made online at
giving.missouri.edu or mailed to Mizzou Gift Processing 407 Reynolds
Alumni Center, Columbia, MO 65211. Please visit
www.memorialfuneralhomecolumbia.com to leave condolences.
Published on January 28, 2021
Jennifer M.
(Rybolt) Ethridge, 43, of Paris, Missouri, passed into a peaceful sleep
until God called her to come home on January 20, 2021.
She was
born December 15, 1977 in Columbia to Robert Rybolt and Sarah J.
(Worstell) Ethridge.
She went to Hickman High School. She had a
big heart, tried to please everyone. Beautiful inside and out, Jennifer
and her mother had a special bond. She had a rough 43 years but managed
her fears. She is now at peace. She enjoyed spending time with her
grandkids. Jennifer left us way too soon.
Surviving four
beautiful kids: Kayla M. Benton of Kansas City, Missouri, Noel L.
Bullock of Columbia, Chris A. Bullock of Georgia, Shawn D. Ethridge of
Paris; mother, Sarah J. Worstell Ethridge and stepdad Ross Ethridge of
Paris; two brothers: Jeffery Rybolt of Paris, Jesse Rybolt of Columbia;
stepbrother, Ronnie Ethridge and stepsister, Trisha Ethridge, both of
Texas; three grandkids: Alynia Jones, Embersyn Jones, Tobias Stoddard;
numerous cousins; aunts and uncles.
Preceded in death by her
father, grandparents.
No services at this time. Arrangements are
under the direction of Nilson-Millard Cremation and Burial Center.
Condolences may be shared at Nilson-Millard Cremation and Burial.
Published in San Francisco Chronicle from
Feb. 12 to Feb. 19, 2021.
William Emmett Gwatkin, III
William Emmett
Gwatkin, III ("Bill") of Santa Rosa, California, passed away on Jan. 23,
2021, at the age of 91 from complications of COVID-19.
Bill was
born on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 1929, in Columbia, Missouri, to
LeMay Ryan Gwatkin and William Emmett Gwatkin, Jr., a classics professor
at the University of Missouri. He grew up in that university town and
remained a loyal "Mizzou" sports fan throughout his life. During those
years, he also bonded with "The Lee School Boys," a group of pals from
elementary school with whom he remained lifelong friends.
After
graduating from Hickman High School in 1946, he attended The College of
Wooster in Wooster, Ohio, where he earned a bachelor's degree in
political science in 1950. He then joined Harvard Law School's Class of
1953, but his studies were interrupted by military service. He was a
proud U.S. Navy veteran, attending the Navy's Officer Candidate School
and serving on the USS Colahan DD 658 as a lieutenant junior grade
during the Korean War and while on active duty on the island of Guam.
Following his time in the Navy, he returned to Harvard Law School's
campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and completed his law studies,
earning a Juris Doctor.
While on Christmas leave from the Navy in
1953, Bill married Carol Enid Anderson, whom he met while working at the
Wianno Club in Osterville, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod. An extremely
devoted couple, they had recently celebrated their 67th wedding
anniversary.
After his law school graduation, Bill worked as an
attorney in the U.S. Department of Justice Admiralty and Shipping
Section for some 20 years. He began his career in Washington, D.C., and
later transferred to San Francisco, California, to head the section's
West Coast office. After retiring from the government, Bill continued in
private practice for numerous years and served on the board of trustees
of the Marin County Law Library in California from 1990 to 2000.
Bill was an active member of The Episcopal Church in the communities
where he lived. He served on the vestry at St. Stephen's Episcopal
Church in Belvedere, California, and was a faithful parishioner at St.
Patrick's Episcopal Church in Kenwood, California, where he will be laid
to rest in the Memorial Garden.
He will be remembered fondly for
his remarkable singing skills. A true Welsh tenor, he lent his voice to
the St. Stephen's Follies and was a longtime member of the Tiburon/Marin
Men's Chorus in California. Each year at the chorus holiday concert, his
family would wait anxiously during his "O Holy Night" solo in fear he
would miss the high note. He hit it every time.
Bill had a remarkable
encyclopedic memory, a profound fascination with all things
meteorological and a fondness for waterfalls. His taste in music ranged
from Broadway show tunes to cool jazz. Despite being reared in Missouri,
he was happiest when beside the ocean. Bill never seemed to mind the
water temperature and would jump into frigid surf with Carol by his
side. Pajaro Dunes in California and Cape Cod remained favorite spots.
Bill loved a good meal! The Lee School Boys affectionately deemed him
"Bones" due to his tall, thin build as a young man. His nickname would
stick long after he married Carol and became accustomed to her wonderful
cooking. He especially loved her Swedish meatballs, array of Christmas
cookies and "hot soup on a cold day."
Bill is survived by his wife,
Carol, and three children: Christina Moghadam (Hamid), Cynthia Rowland
(James) and Claire Jones (Marc). In addition, Bill leaves behind his
four grandchildren, Cyrus Moghadam, Marshall Jones, Brooke Rowland and
Charlotte Jones. He is also survived by his brother, Davidson Ryan
Gwatkin (Nina) of Washington, D.C.; his nieces, Li Gwatkin and Kathryn
Goulding, and their families; and numerous cousins. In his later years,
Bill was particularly amused by the moniker bestowed on him by Kathryn's
daughters: "Gruncle" for great-uncle.
A private memorial service will
be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in
Bill's memory to a charity of your choice.
Published on February 03, 2021
Glen Nelson Thurman,
33, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on January 24, 2021.
He was born in Columbia to Donald G. Thurman and Laura M.
Thurman on December 20, 1987. He attended Hickman High School, Central
Methodist University, Clairmont University, and Stephen’s College. He
loved language and spoke German, studying at the Gottigen Institute,
Germany. He also loved philosophy, ethics, and the study of religions.
He loved to write.
Glen had a big heart, was playful and full of
life, he was also a private person unless you knew him. He spent much
time in the outdoors and loved to fish, hunt, bike, hike, and go on
adventures. He especially loved to spend time on our land in Howard
County where his ashes will be spread.
Surviving are his parents:
Donald G. Thurman and Laura M. Thurman; brother, Troy Thurman; beloved
sister, Bethany M. Thurman; beloved nephew, Giani G. Parker, and
numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved him. He was
preceded in death by his beloved cousin, Timothy Bunton and two sets of
grandparents: Gene and Jean Thurman and Nelson and Marion Koerner.
There are no services planned at this time. Spreading of his ashes
will occur at a later date. Donations are asked for in his name to
Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue, unchainedmelodies.org or APA Animal
Protection Association of Mo., apamo.org.
Published on February 02, 2021
Harley Wayne
Hyde, age 76, of Columbia, passed away on January 27, 2021.
He
was born to Tilford and Edith Hyde on September 1, 1944. He graduated
from Hickman High School in Columbia in 1963. Harley married Judith
(Lee) Hyde on August 9, 1963.
Harley worked a variety of jobs
throughout his life, including Hays Hardware, Newberry’s, Phillips
Electric, Boone County Oil, and MFA Bulk Plant. He described his life
experience as “jack of all trades and master of none.” His life-long
passion and career began December 12, 1971 with the Columbia Fire
Department until his retirement as a Fire Engineer on January 5, 2001.
He continued to remain close with his fellow firefighters and stopped by
routinely to visit, drink coffee or meet up for breakfast after
completion of their shift, until recently due to his declining health.
All while working with the Columbia Fire Department he worked during his
days off at Koonse Glass, Tommy Lee Construction Company as a plumber,
and March Heating and Air Conditioning. He also helped found the North
Callaway Volunteer Fire Department in 1980 and served as Chief until his
retirement in 2012. Although he retired in 2012 you could still find him
at the firehouse daily, his role had officially changed but his passion
to serve the fire district and his beloved community never did. The
lives he changed are countless!
Outside of his passion for his
service with the fire departments, he immensely loved his family,
grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He carried pictures with him and
loved showing them off to everyone along while sharing stories about
them. Harley loved telling stories, jokes, and was always quick-witted.
Harley is preceded in death by Tilford Hyde (father); Edith
(Melloway) Hyde (mother); Beatrice (Hyde) Voyles (sister); David Hyde
(brother); Clarence Hyde (brother); Cecil Hyde (brother); Ronald Wayne
Hyde (son).
Harley is survived by his wife, Judith (Lee) Hyde;
children: Patricia (Hyde) Fischer and husband, Donald of Fulton, Scott
(Chelsey) Hyde of Okinawa, Japan; eight grandchildren: Brandi (Fischer)
Hassien and spouse, Joe, Ashley (Fischer) Hoer and spouse, Ben, Haylee
(Fischer) Middaugh and spouse, Ryan, Abigail Fischer, Nathan Hyde-Burton
and fiancé’, Courtney Lewis, Jonathon Hyde-Burton, Christopher Hyde,
Jason Hyde; four great-grandchildren with another on the way: Brylinn
Terry, Joseph Hassien, Jordynne Hassien, Gannon Hoer, and baby Middaugh.
One sibling, Jacquetta (Hyde) Merriott and spouse, Rolla; numerous
nieces and nephews; two wonderfully close friends and former colleague
fire fighters: James Jones and wife Kelly; Gene Windmiller and wife
Mary.
Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the funeral
following at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, February 3. Services will be held at
54 Country, 400 Gaylord Dr., Fulton, MO 65251 with processional and
motorcade to Memorial Park Cemetery, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia,
MO 65202. Harley specifically requested that everyone in attendance
dress casual and comfortably, and to come prepared to share stories.
COVID-19 protocol will be followed for the ceremony.
In lieu of
flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the North Callaway
Volunteer Fire Department or the Fire Fighter Memorial in Kingdom City.
Published on February 05, 2021
Nellie Aurita
Prince Caldwell transitioned to her eternal place in God on January 27,
2021.
Preceding her in death are her parents: John Alfred Sr.
and Alice Pearl Smith Prince; a brother, John Alfred Prince, Jr.
A native Columbian, she came into being on October 5, 1953. During her
purpose on earth, she attended the Columbia School District, graduating
from Hickman High School. She achieved her B.A. at Northeast Missouri
State University then on to Lincoln University (Jefferson City),
obtaining DOUBLE Masters degrees in Education and Public Health. She was
employed by the State of Missouri Department of Health from July 1, 1978
to her retirement June 1, 2008 after 30 years of service, having served
as Bureau Chief of the Department of Health.
Surviving is her
husband, Rev. Dr. Carlton R. Caldwell; four children: Latisha, Keith,
Carnisha, and Weslyn; two very special and dear children: Helen
Harrington and Robert “Bobo” Simmons; three brothers: Brian, Raimon and
Harlan; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews.
St. Louis
Viewing: 4-7 p.m., Friday, February 12, Granberry Funeral Home, 8806
Jennings Station Road, St. Louis, Missouri 63136.
Columbia
Funeral: Saturday, February 13, Sugar Grove Baptist Church, 5400 Sugar
Grove Road, Columbia, Missouri 65201. Wake: 9-11 a.m.; Funeral: 11 a.m.
Published on February 03, 2021
Hartley “Carl” Fenton,
age 89, of Columbia, passed away at Boone Hospital on January 25, 2021,
with his loving wife, Betty, and daughters by his side. Betty Ann
Fenton, age 84, of Columbia, passed away at The Timbers, assisted living
home in Holts Summit on January 29, 2021, surrounded by family and
staff.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and out of respect to our
family and friends, a private memorial and graveside service will be
held only for immediate family, but the services will be livestreamed at
11 a.m. on Saturday, February 6 on the funeral home's Facebook page at
Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory, and Memorial Park Cemetery/Columbia.
Carl and Betty were both born in Columbia. They were married May 20,
1955 at First Christian Church in Columbia.
They are survived by
daughters: Debra Guthrie (Stephen) and Connie Fenton of Columbia;
grandchildren: Jason Guthrie (Kim) of Jefferson City, Sara Noda (Tyler)
of St. Charles, and Carlee Fenton of Columbia.
Carl and Betty
were preceded in death by their daughter, Peggy Leigh Fenton, in 1961.
Carl was born September 22, 1931 to Hartley Banks Fenton and Mora
Pearl Phillippe. He is survived by his sister, Helen Graves, and
brother, Dale Fenton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hartley
and Mora Fenton, and brothers Ralph, Donald, and Nelson Fenton.
Betty was born June 27, 1937 to Emmitt (Ray) Wade and Helen Amanda West;
both preceded her in death.
Carl and Betty both attended the Wade
School, in north Columbia. Carl went on to graduate from University High
School in 1949, and Betty graduated from Hickman High School in 1954.
Carl grew up working in the family’s dairy business, except for two
years of military service with the U.S. Army stationed at Fort Bragg,
North Carolina. Carl returned to the family business following his
discharge.
Shortly thereafter, Carl saw Betty at the Missouri
State Fair where he commented to his brother, “Someday, that girl will
be my wife.” After their first date, it was destined that they would
spend 65 glorious years, inseparable, making memories together.
Following their marriage, Carl decided to become a barber and graduated
from the Barber School in Kansas City. He opened his own barber shop,
Route B Barber Shop, in 1966 and successfully operated as a proud, small
business owner for 37 years. He loved barbering and serving his
customers. When he would go out to eat, it was common to have multiple
people come over during the meal to pay their respects. He had a passion
for people and always loved telling a good story whether it was
politically correct or not. He was a man who did not shy from his
beliefs and always gave everybody he met a fair shake.
Betty
chose to stay at home and committed herself to supporting Carl and
raising their family. She was an excellent cook (no different than her
mother, Helen) and was always making the “family favorites” for special
meals and occasions. If you had the privilege to enjoy a meal at the
Fenton household, you knew you would be leaving the table uncomfortably
full. The way she could effortlessly prepare a Thanksgiving meal with
all the fixings was only genuinely appreciated a year ago when the rest
of the family all pitched in to try and replicate the meal during the
holiday season.
For Carl and Betty, “family was first,” which
meant: traveling out-of-state over 30 years to celebrate special
occasions with family; Jason never having a haircut from anyone other
than his Grandpa till age 15; attending all of (and sometimes Carl
dancing at) Carlee’s dance recitals; and Sara sharing with Grandma a
passion for quilting which she continues to this day.
Carl loved
his farm and his cows. Even though he had many run-ins with his
livestock over the years; most notably falling in the trough while
feeding, and jumping into a frigid creek to save a calf, both events
occurring when he was well into his 70s, he always cared deeply for them
and they brought him great satisfaction.
Betty loved the holiday
season when the family would all be together. Nothing brought her
greater joy than her family all being around her and sharing the same
stories and traditions we have had for a long time. You always knew she
was telling a great story that she found funny because before she could
even finish the punchline or ending, she would usually start cackling so
hard we all wondered if she would get through it. This passion for life
and being with ones she loved, made for so many special moments we will
cherish forever.
The last two years of their lives Carl and Betty
lived at The Timbers of Holts Summit (family owned and operated assisted
living home) which allowed them to see their daughter and grandson every
day, and surrounded by caring and compassionate caregivers.
While
the passing of both Carl and Betty within a five-day period is very
emotional and traumatic, neither of them could have imagined living
without the other. We are all blessed they continue to be together
forever.
The family wants to express their sincere appreciation
to the many, many family and friends who have shared their love and
support.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial
contributions to: Coyote Hill, PO Box 1 Harrisburg, MO 65256,
coyotehill.org/waystohelp/tributes.
Honorary Pallbearers: Bill
Brooks, Dale Fenton, John Graves, Phil Graves, Bandy Jacobs, Denny
Russel.
Provided by Ed Elliott, '51
Kewpie - February 21, 2021
Verna Dean
(Crane) Price passed away at the family home in San Diego, CA on
February 5, 2021 with loving family members by her side. “Deanie” was 92
years old and a 1946 graduate of Hickman High School in Columbia,
Missouri.
She married Bill Price of Harrisburg, MO in 1948 and
together they had five children: Tandy, Jim, Billy Dean, Liz and Cindy.
She was preceded in death by her husband Bill Price, her parents,
Channing Tandy Crane and Opal Crane, sisters Laura Beth Purcell and
Dorothy Turner and her sons Jim and infant Billy Dean.
She is
survived by her sister Martha Lee (Crane) Elliott of San Diego, CA and 3
grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Published on February 12, 2021
Albert Paul
Sutton, 83, a lifelong Columbian, passed away February 6, 2021 at his
home. He was born July 26, 1937 to Albert and Thelma Sutton.
In
1957, he married Betty Jo Creason. They had two sons together, Clifford
and Chris.
The ironically nicknamed “Bunny” was actually a large
man, with a voice and personality that matched his stature. A manager at
the Gerbes meat department for many years, he also owned a farm and
especially loved cattle.
Bunny loved following sports,
particularly the St. Louis Cardinals and Missouri Tigers. He was also a
bowler, youth baseball coach, and a member of the award-winning 1953
Tribune Tigers baseball team. He graduated from Hickman High School in
1955.
Bunny is survived by his wife, sons, three siblings: Edward
Sutton, Ozella McCasland, and Sandie Umstead; five grandchildren:
Jacqueline Sutton, Melissa Miller, Justin Sutton, Cooper Sutton, and
Lexi Sutton. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren: Theodore
Sutton and Ava Miller.
He was preceded in death by his parents
and two sisters: Mary Wright and Bonnie Shockley.
A visitation
will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 13, with a service
following at noon; Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W,
Columbia, MO 65202; 573-443-3173.
Contributions may be made to
Coyote Hill Christian Children’s Home, 9501 W Coyote Hill Rd,
Harrisburg, MO 65256; 573-874-0179.
Published on February 14, 2021
Ralph Perry Flint,
age 69, of Columbia, passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at a Moberly
hospital.
He was born June 1, 1951 in Shelbina, the son of Earl
and June Flint.
He lived with his family in Bethany, where he
went to public school through the 9th grade. The family moved to
Columbia, where Ralph graduated from Hickman High School in 1969, then
went on to the University of Missouri, where he graduated in 1973 with a
Bachelor of Science Degree and a Master’s Degree in Electrical
Engineering. Ralph worked in Kansas City for the Black and Veatch
Engineering Company for a number of years until his health caused him to
quit.
Ralph is preceded in death by his parents.
He is
survived by his siblings: David Flint, Teresa (Flint) Hodges and
Jennifer Flint; sister-in-law, Maureen Flint; brother-in-law, Frank
Hodges; as well as four nephews: Christopher Flint, Curtis Flint, Alex
Flint, and Matthew Hodges.
Burial will be held in Miriam
Cemetery, Bethany, under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home,
Bethany. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a memorial service will be held
at a later date, yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorial
gifts may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) in
care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 46, Bethany, Missouri, 64424.
Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
Published on February 18, 2021
Phyllis Elaine
Willingham, 82, of Columbia Missouri passed away peacefully on Saturday
February 13, 2021 at her Cedarhurst residence in Columbia Missouri.
Phyllis was born April 4th, 1938 in Columbia to Lewis Jackson Terry
and Estelle Catherine [Anderton] Terry. Phyllis was raised and attended
school in Columbia, graduating from David Hickman High School. She
worked for the University of Missouri at Jesse Hall. Phyllis attended
New Horizons United Methodist Church in Columbia.
December 1st,
1956 Phyllis married her high school sweetheart, Ever Ray Willingham
whom preceded her in death on February 14, 1987. They had three
children, Mike Willingham [Margaret], Randy Willingham [Donna] and Greg
Willingham[Tammy] all of Columbia. Phyllis’s love of children led her to
30 + years of day care for children. She had seven Foster children
throughout that time and is testament of her loving heart and kind
nature.
Phyllis raced go-karts in her younger days, attended
Turkey shoots was often a winner, loved humming birds, walking, and
going to the Broadway Diner downtown to order her favorite, biscuits and
gravy. She enjoyed playing the harmonica for those whom enjoyed a tune.
She attended many Shriner events with her husband and made life-long
friendships.
In 1988, Phyllis was introduced to Ezra “Fuzzy”
Nichols who became a loving companion for over 30 years. He preceded her
in death.
Phyllis was the youngest of five children. She was
preceded in death by sister, Juanita Palmer and is survived by sisters,
LaVerne Sartin, Lois Vogt; brother, Paul Terry. Phyllis has four
grandchildren, Tyler, Kyle and Marshall Willingham and Kalyn Pilsudski.
She has four great grandchildren, Hazel and Madeleine Willingham and
Nora and Samuel Pilsudski. She had ten nieces and nephews.
Phyllis was a kind, happy and joyous person to be around. She will be
missed.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 20, 2021
at Memorial Funeral Home,1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65202
from 1:30pm until the time of the funeral service at 2:30pm. A private
burial will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Please visit
the funeral home’s website at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com to leave condolences and to
access the livestream of the memorial service via Facebook.
Published on March 14, 2021
Maya Leah Nicole
Wootton was born November 30, 1987 and Left us February 18, 2021.
Nothing about her tragic end matched Nicki’s spirit. She was
bubbling over with life, light, and joy despite some dark times and
difficult challenges.
A proud graduate of Hickman High School and
an Associate’s degree, Nicki focused her passion in life on helping
people and animals. Given her own struggles with addiction, which she
talked about with refreshing honesty, Nicki earned a career
certification in peer support counseling. This was a perfect blend of
all the things she excelled at: connecting with others, using her humor
to put people at ease, listening with an open heart, and sharing her
story with candor and grace.
Nicki was a warrior in every sense
of the word. She ran into a neighbor’s burning home once to try and save
their cat. She saved numerous animals and a number of friends and
strangers over the years. She was the embodiment of this quote by
Stephanie Sparkles: “I love when people that have been thru hell walk
out of the flames carrying buckets of water for those still consumed by
the fire.”
Our beloved Nicki leaves behind a loving family,
including her mother, Tammy Hickman; and her Nana, Beth Young; uncles:
Paul Comier, Davin and Ian Tipton; aunts: Chris Tipton and Carleton
Tipton-Montie and Susan Cormier; and many more extended families as well
as too many friends to name. She was preceded in death by her father,
David Wootton and her beloved aunt, Tara Tipton and her uncle Martin
Wootton. Her beloved pugs Henni and Ro who loved her fiercely have found
a loving home with family where they will continue to be spoiled to the
end of their days.
Nicki in her own words when she was 23.
“If I died today I would be thankful for the love that I was lucky
enough to feel. If I died today I would be thankful for having so many
good friends that I have to count them on my fingers AND toes, and to
know that I would gladly walk to the ends of the earth for them if they
asked me.”
Celebration of Life service will be planned for the
Summer months – when hopefully hugging will once again be allowed.
Published on February 28, 2021
Jo Ann Thomas, age
67, of Winona, Minnesota, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her
home on Friday, February 19, 2021, surrounded by her family. All those
who knew and loved Jo Ann admired her strength and perseverance
throughout her 25-year battle and recurrences of cancer.
Jo Ann
was born on July 8, 1953 in Columbia to two physicians, Dr. Helen Yeager
Thomas and Dr. Horace Thomas, and received her bachelor's degree from
Grinnell College in Iowa. She began her professional career as a
community organizer, working for People Involved in Rice County,
Minnesota COACT (Citizens Organizations Acting Together), and the Land
Stewardship Project. A strong feminist, she then applied her
organizational skills to the empowerment of women, serving as the
director of Houston County Women's Resources and then as co-director of
the Women's Resource Center in Winona.
She met her husband,
Douglas Nopar, while working together at Minnesota COACT in Minneapolis.
Jo Ann and Doug later relocated to Winona. They were married on August
16, 1986 at the Winona Arts Center. Raising two daughters to be caring,
intelligent, wise, loving and powerful young women gave Jo Ann the
greatest joy of all — she loved being a mom.
Relationships were
very important to Jo Ann, and it is no surprise that she had a large
network of close friends who adored and revered her. That included five
friendships from kindergarten that she actively carried forward
throughout her life. She had a way of making others feel loved and
welcomed in her presence, and she was someone that people gravitated to
and wanted to be around. She will be deeply missed by all those who knew
and loved her.
Jo Ann was wise, insightful and perceptive. A
great listener, she was always interested in getting to know and learn
about you. Jo Ann could also be fiery and sassy — she was never afraid
to speak her mind, but did so in a straight-forward and loving way. She
constantly sought new reasons for living and making a difference in the
lives of others.
After being diagnosed with cancer in 1996, Jo
Ann dedicated herself to her own healing and that of others. Armed with
ten years of previous lay experience providing homeopathic remedies to
family and friends, she shifted her career path to become a certified
classical homeopath. She was inspired by her own journey and the desire
to help others. Jo Ann completed the three-year clinically-based
training at the Northwestern Academy of Homeopathy in St. Louis Park,
Minnesota, graduating in 2000 and opening her practice in Winona, where
she served clients for 20 years.
Alongside some conventional
medical treatments for her cancer, Jo Ann also sought out alternative
treatments and healing, not only of her body, but also of her mind and
spirit. Jo Ann firmly believed that mind-body healing was possible, and
she led and supported many on their healing path. In recent years, she
was dedicated to the healing practice of Qi Gong meditation.
Jo
Ann could often be found in the afternoons chatting with friends at the
Blue Heron Coffeehouse or walking around Lake Winona. She was an
incredible cook and baker. She also enjoyed her perennial garden,
knitting, reading novels, and swimming in Lake Superior. Jo Ann was
deeply committed to social and economic justice, women's rights, and
care of the Earth.
Jo Ann is lovingly survived by her husband,
Douglas Nopar, Winona; children: Elizabeth (Sebastian Veloso Olave)
Thomas, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Sylvia (fiancé Fernando Cesar Silveira
Queiroz) Thomas, Minneapolis; sisters: Mary (Wayne Davis) Thomas,
Ingram, Texas, Carol Thomas, Columbia, Davika Thomas, Columbia, Nancy
(Christopher McLean) Thomas, Berkeley, California, and their children:
Reed and Helen; father-in-law: Richard Nopar, Wilmette, Illinois;
brother-in-law: Kenneth (Carolyn) Nopar, Arlington Heights, Illinois and
their children: Katherine and Lauren Nopar; as well as her many friends,
locally and abroad. She was preceded in death by her parents and her
mother-in-law, Dorothy Nopar.
Honoring Jo Ann's legacy, memorials
would be appreciated to the following organizations: the Advocacy Center
of Winona (formerly Women's Resource Center); Ridgeway Community School;
Simonton Cancer Counseling Center; Land Stewardship Project; or the
Winona Catholic Worker.
Funeral services, via Zoom, will be held
at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 5. Shiva will be held, via Zoom, at 2 p.m. on
Sunday, March 7. Those wishing to participate in the service and Shiva
should e-mail lmack@templeisrael.com for the Zoom contact information
and links.
Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home of Winona is assisting
the family with arrangements.
Published on February 28, 2021
Daughter, sister,
wife, mother, and retired registered nurse, Kathryn “Kathy” Frala
Martin, passed away peacefully at her home on February 21, 2021, at the
age of 63. Her family was with her through the end. At this time, no
services are scheduled.
Kathy was born to Robert “Bob” and Erma
(Sechrest) Frala on February 25, 1957 in Evanston, Illinois. She moved
to Columbia at the age of 9 and went on to graduate from Hickman High
School, Class of 1975. Kathy and her husband, Gregg, were set up on a
blind date by their parents in February of 1983. It was love at first
sight, and they married on October 29, 1983. Their relationship was one
to be admired – full of love, respect, laughter, family, and friends.
Kathy’s nursing career was a source of great pride. She began as a
licensed practical nurse at Columbia Regional Hospital. There, she was
selected by the Pink Ladies as the recipient of a scholarship to further
her nursing education. She graduated as a registered nurse from Central
Methodist University. Her talent, skill, and pleasant personality were
recognized by Dr. Jerry D. Kennett, M.D., who hired her as a private
nurse. Kathy continued working for Dr. Kennett until the birth of her
first child, after which she took a break from nursing to raise her and
Gregg’s two children (son Casey and daughter Kelley). After Casey and
Kelley were in school, anxious to return to nursing, Kathy began work at
Boone Hospital Center as a part-time RN in the newborn nursery – a job
she enjoyed very much. From there, she became a full-time member of the
specialty nursing staff at Boone Hospital Center’s GI Lab. Kathy retired
in 2018, after 25 years of service at Boone Hospital Center. She was
respected by all as a strong member of her exclusive team and was very
proud to work for such a recognized, first-rate hospital.
Kathy’s
passions included her family, her children, her dogs, her home, her
friends, attending music festivals, her pool, and her gardens. Two of
her biggest joys were her granddaughters, Drew and Darcy. She was an
active, fun, and amazing grandmother, who loved every minute of her role
as such. Kathy’s care for her father, throughout his later years, was
exceptional – The decisions she helped make, time and time again,
prolonged his life. Kathy was a board member of Cedar Creek Therapeutic
Riding Center and cared very much for its purpose. She will be missed
dearly by many.
Kathy is survived by her husband, Gregg D. Martin
of Columbia; her son, Casey Martin, his wife Jamie, and their two
daughters: Drew and Darcy, all of Columbia; her daughter, Kelley Rebert
and her husband Casey of Denver, Colorado; her mother, Erma (Sechrest)
Frala of Columbia; her brother, James “Jim” Frala of Columbia; her
sister, Julie Frala (George Marshall) of Hartsburg; and her
brother-in-law, Terry Martin and his wife Michelle of Jefferson City.
She is also survived by nephews and nieces: nephew, James “Jimmy” Frala
and his wife Kristen of Wentzville, niece, Carly Frala of St. Louis,
nephew, Benton “Ben” Frala of Pacific, nephew, Patrick Martin and his
wife Amber of Spartanburg, South Carolina, and niece, Jenny Snyder and
her husband Dillon of Boise, Idaho.
Kathy was preceded in death
by her father, Robert “Bob” Frala; her father-in-law, Lynn Martin; and
her mother-in-law, Ruth (McKinney) Martin.
In lieu of flowers,
memorial contributions in Kathy’s honor can be made to Boone Hospital
Foundation (by mail: Boone Hospital Foundation, 1600 East Broadway,
Columbia, MO 65201; online: www.boone.org/Foundation/Donations) or Cedar
Creek Therapeutic Riding Center (by mail: 4895 East Highway 163,
Columbia, MO 65201; online: cedarcreek.missouri.org/home/donate).
Condolences may be shared online at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.
Published on March 03, 2021
Redenna
Williams, age 36, of Columbia, passed away on February 22, 2021 at her
residence surrounded by her family. She was born on June 13, 1984, a
daughter of Lee and Bertha (Spears) Williams.
She graduated from
Hickman High School in Columbia. Redenna worked in claims the claims
department at State Farm as a dispatcher.
Redeena loved shopping,
going to the movies, taking beautiful pictures, listening to music and
going to the casino. She also loved spending time with her family.
Redenna is survived by her parents Lee and Bertha Williams,
brothers, Tyrone Williams, Demetrius Johnson (Starla), Kelan Williams,
Leslie L Williams all of Columbia, a sister Latoya L Williams of
Columbia, her son, Dorian Williams-Webster, and her grandmother Willie
Jean Spears, and many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles. She was
preceded in death by her sister Nadia Johnson.
Friends will be
received from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at Second
Baptist Church-Columbia. Funeral Services will follow at 12:00 pm,
Saturday, March 6, 2021 at Second Baptist Church-Columbia.
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.
Published on March 03, 2021
Robert Paschang, age
79, of Columbia, passed away on February 25, 2021 at his home. He was
born on July 19, 1941 in Audrain County, a son of Edmond and Adeline
Paschang.
He attended Hickman High School and was a member of the
Missouri National Guard. He worked for the Columbia Tribune for over 20
years.
He was a collector of all things. He was an avid reader
and loved going to the Daniel Boone Library in Columbia where he spent
countless hours.
Robert is survived by a sister, Joan Wright
(Lester) of Centralia; and a brother, Walter Paschang (Arvie) of
Imperial; and many, many nieces, and nephews. Robert was preceded by his
parents and brothers: Alan, Ronald, and Chester Paschang; and a sister,
Patricia Foster.
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.
Published on March 04, 2021
Anita Faye Wade, age
79, of Columbia, passed away on March 1, 2021.
She was born on
July 8, 1941 to Virgil and Nadine West. Anita was a lifelong resident of
the Hinton community in Columbia. She was also an active member of the
Dripping Springs Christian Church and went on several mission trips
abroad. Anita took great joy in fostering for Second Chance Animal
Rescue, volunteering at the senior center and Habitat for Humanity.
Anita is preceded in death by her husband, Jim Wade; and former
spouse, Robert Stevens; and parents.
She is survived by her sons:
David Stevens, Andy Stevens, and Michael Stevens; grandchildren: Robert
Stevens, Elizabeth Stevens, and Travis Loyd; great-granddaughter, Ella
Rose Stevens; and nephews: Kevin West and Karl West.
A visitation
will be held from 2-3 p.m. on Thursday, March 4 at Memorial Funeral
Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 W, Columbia, MO 65202 with funeral service
to follow.
Please visit the funeral home’s website at
memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com to leave condolences.
Donations may be made in Anita’s honor to Second Chance Animal Rescue at
columbia2ndchance.org/donate-now or by calling 660-882-5050.
Published on March 07, 2021
Billy Jack “BJ” Smith,
85, of Columbia, passed away Wednesday, March 3, 2021.
Services
will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 12 at Memorial Cemetery Park.
Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. until time of the services at the
funeral home. Burial to follow with full military honors.
Billy
was born August 31, 1935 in Boone County to Leona (Smith) Slaughter.
After graduating from Hickman High School in 1953, he joined the U.S.
Marine Corps, where he reached the rank of Corporal as a marksman
sharp-shooter.
After his military service, he went to work for
Coca Cola Bottling Company as a route salesman for 23 years, until he
changed careers in 1979 to work for the U.S. Postal Service as a mail
carrier in Columbia until his retirement in 2000.
Billy started
playing pool in his teenage days and was hooked for life. He absolutely
loved playing billiards and he would practice the same shot for hours at
a time to perfect his game. One of his proudest moments was beating one
of the best pool players of all time, Minnesota Fats, in an exhibition
game at the Columbia National Guard Armory in the early 1970s. As a
member of the NAPA, APA and TAP pool leagues, he played in innumerable
pool tournaments over 70+ years. He was especially fond of playing with
all his friends and continued right up until the last few months prior
to his death.
Billy loved watching all kinds of sports and he
was a huge fan of the MU Tigers and St. Louis Cardinals. He loved to
have family near, especially family meals where he always told
entertaining stories of growing up.
Survivors include his wife,
Shirley Frances (Harmon) Smith of the home; children: Karen Renae
(Smith) Borgers (Robert) and Derek Keith Smith; as well as two
grandchildren: Brittney Danielle Dyson and Zachary Noah Smith; and one
great-grandchild, Kamdyn Veyda Dyson; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Leona Slaughter; a son,
Jeffery Duane Smith; two sisters: Carol Tyrrell and Connie Norman; and
one brother, David Slaughter.
Memorials are suggested to the
Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. 758541, Topeka, KS or St. Jude Children's
Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Published by Darrell Howe Mortuary
1701
W. South Boulder Road
Lafayette, CO 80026
Steve was born in
Booneville, Missouri on February 5, 1954 to Sheldon and Nancy Nowell. He
passed away peacefully at home on March 7, 2021 surrounded by family
after a lengthy illness.
His wife Kate holds him in her heart as
"the love of her life". They met at a concert at the Boulder Theater in
July, 1996, and it was "love at first sight". They were married just a
little more than a year later. Together they had many adventures. While
Steve enjoyed running, as a couple he and Kate enjoyed hiking, scuba
diving, snowshoeing, and travel. They attended many concerts and enjoyed
many excellent meals together over the years. Steve loved music, wrote
songs, and played the guitar. A theater major in college, he loved to
sing and dance and was a fun, gregarious person. He had a somewhat silly
sense of humor and his mere presence could light up a room. It was
impossible not to like him!
Because of his friendliness and
kindness, he made friends wherever he went, having many of them all over
the world. He nurtured these relationships always seeing the best in
everyone.
Steve spent 40 years in the insurance industry,
starting his work in Germany. After moving to Boulder, he continued in
the industry then later started his own agency. His many clients
respected his friendly manner, attention to detail and thoroughness in
all that he did.
He is survived by his wife Kate Kellett,
daughter Charissa Nowell, step-daughters Kelly Kaminski and Kalen
Kaminski, his grandson Sebastian Carvajal, his sister Sheila Nowell
Mannix, niece Haley Mannix, mothers-in-law Diana Dean and Daisette
Kellett, sisters-in-law Kris and Josephine Kellett, brother-in-law Bill
Kellett and cousins David, Debbie and Dale Greenbury.
Steve was
taken from us far too young, but his lightness and love of life will
live on in the hearts of all who knew him. A celebration of his life
will be held at a later date. Contributions in his honor can be made to
CurePSP.
Published on March 24, 2021
Sharon
Ann Brock Sessions, 66, of Columbia, passed on Monday, March 22, 2021.
Family and friends will be received at 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 28 at
Memorial Funeral Home. Memorial services will follow at 4 p.m. All
family and friends are invited and please remember to wear a mask. A
private family interment will follow at Calvary Episcopal Church.
Sharon was born on March 23, 1954, at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas to
Robert N. Brock and Margaret Grace Broom Brock. She was raised all over
the country as her father’s career in the Army Reserves sent the family
to Texas, North Carolina, Wisconsin and eventually Missouri. Sharon
graduated from Hickman High School in 1972 and attended the University
of Missouri where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in
1976.
In 1979, Sharon married Gerald Sessions and was the proud
mother of two children, Jonathan and Sara.
Sharon’s nursing
career started at Ellis Fischel Hospital in 1976 following her
graduation from college. After the birth of their daughter, Sara in
1985, Sharon began working as an IV Therapy Nurse for University of
Missouri Hospital, where she stayed for the majority of her career until
she transferred within the system to Nursing Case Management in 2008.
After transferring again to the clinics at the University, she retired
January 2015 and cared for her parents until their passing.
As a
long-time member of Calvary Episcopal Church, Sharon generously
volunteered and held many positions over the years. From serving as
acolyte in high school to Sunday School Coordinator, where she helped
run the Children’s Christmas Pageant, Sharon was dedicated to the
Calvary congregation. Sharon also found a great job in volunteering with
the Advent Bazar each year and helped run the bakery with her good
friend and their daughters. Sharon was also a member of the White Alloe
Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in Parkville,
Missouri, as well as several nursing organizations.
Sharon is
survived by her husband, Gerald of the home; son, Jonathan Sessions of
Columbia (Carrie Gartner); daughter, Sara Sessions of Riverside,
Missouri; one sister, Susan Daniel (Craig) of Columbia, Missouri; one
niece, Jennifer Sirois (Shaun) of Sturgeon, Missouri; two nephews: Sean
Daniel of San Diego, California, and Spencer Brock; and several cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Robert
“Bobby” Brock, Jr.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to
Calvary Episcopal Church.
Please visit the funeral home’s website
at
www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com to leave condolences to
access the livestream of the memorial service via Facebook.
Published on March 27, 2021
Lewis Henry Sutton
Jr. passed away Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at the Fayette Caring Center.
He was 91 years old.
Lewis was born on January 19, 1930 to Lewis
Henry Sutton Sr. and Margaret Lucille Gravitt in Columbia, Missouri.
Lewis attended Grant Elementary and Hickman High School in Columbia. In
1947, at the age of 17, he began what would be a long military career.
He served in the U.S. Navy from 1947-1956, and was stationed in Korea
during the Korean War. After the Navy, he came home and was a member of
the Columbia Police Dept. from 1957-1959.
In 1960, Lewis joined
the military for the 2nd time by enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He was
stationed numerous places stateside and abroad, also serving in Vietnam
during the Vietnam War for a year. Of all the places he was stationed,
Scotland was by far his favorite. On June 18, 1963, Lewis married Sheila
Wilson of Ayr, Scotland, and the two shared almost 58 years together.
After his retirement from the military in 1971, the couple stayed in
Scotland until 1980 when they moved back to his hometown of Columbia,
Missouri, where he drove a bus for the city of Columbia for several
years.
In 1984, the family bought a farm and moved to Fayette,
where he stayed until May of last year. After his military career, Lewis
was a truck driver, including owning his own dump truck business until
the age of 83. Lewis loved to golf, and while stationed in Scotland,
took the opportunity to play any chance that he could get.
Lewis
is survived by his wife, Sheila, of the home and their six children: Lew
(Deb) of Shelbina, Missouri, Jim of Carrollton, Missouri, Matt (Damla)
of Methwold, U.K., Paul (Shana) of Big Cabin, Oklahoma, Jon (Leslie) of
Fayette, Missouri and one daughter, Lynne (Travis) Dodd of Columbia,
Missouri. Also surviving are 17 grandchildren and five
great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Besides his
parents, Lewis was preceded in death by all of his siblings: Barbara Jo
Baker, Patricia Gayle Benzenhoeffer and Linda Darlene Sutton. A military
ceremony will be held Monday, March 29, at 11 a.m. in the Missouri
Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, Missouri. Memorials are suggested to:
Missouri Veterans Cemetery 1479 County Road 1675, Jacksonville, MO,
65260.
Published on April 07, 2021
Mary Novak, 78,
passed away on Thursday April 1, 2021 at her home in Columbia. Mary was
born March 15, 1943. She was preceded in death by her parents, Guy and
Exie Wright. Mary is survived by her husband, Gaylen Novak. They were
married on August 27, 1977. Mary also leaves a daughter, Callie (Bill)
Morgan of Litchfield, Illinois, and two sisters, Lorna Lownik of
Yorktown, Virginia and Nancy Wright of Jefferson City, as well as a
grandson and great-granddaughter.
Mary was baptized as one of
Jehovah’s Witnesses on March 7, 1970. She loved people and enjoyed
teaching them Bible truths. She was kind-hearted and loved by many. She
enjoyed the outdoors, horses, fishing and camping. A Zoom memorial will
be held at a future date.
Arrangements are under the direction of
Nilson-Millard Cremation and Burial Center, 5611 E. St. Charles Road,
Columbia, MO 65202 (573) 474-8443. Condolences may be left online for
the family at
www.nilsonfuneralhome.com.