Nolan Paul Blosser, 13, Buffalo, beloved son of Nathan and Elaine Hostetler Blosser, was born Sept. 10, 1986, in Springfield. He passed away at 8:37 p.m. Friday, April 14, 2000, at St. John's Regional Medical Center on the operating table from massive chest and abdominal injuries following a four-wheeler accident. He is survived by his sorrowing parents, three brothers, Rylan, 11, Travis, 9, and Jason, 3, and two sisters, Merlene, 6, and Melanie, 5, all of the home; his maternal grandparents, John and Leona Hostetler of Buffalo; his paternal grandparents, John and Sylvia Blosser, Half Way; his maternal great-grandparents, Owen and Lily Kropf of Buffalo; 10 uncles, eight aunts, 67 cousins and many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandparents, Ova and Mary Hostetler; paternal great-grandparents, Joseph and Katie Blosser; maternal great-great-grandparents, Ora and Bessie Hostetler; one uncle and three cousins. Nolan was a happy boy, a willing worker, and will be so greatly missed. Although we weep, we mourn not as those who have no hope, looking forward to a glad reunion in heaven. The day of the accident he lead the song in school, "I Want My Life to Tell for Jesus," and was planning to lead it in the last day of school program, when he would graduate from the eighth grade, which was planned to be in two weeks. His desire was to be baptized this summer. Services were Tuesday, April 18, in Pleasant View Amish Mennonite Church, Buffalo, with burial in Pleasant View A.M. Cemetery under the direction of Cantlon-Otterness Funeral Home, Buffalo. The family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers, help and kind expressions of sympathy during this time of sorrow. (12c) A00008B2000AR19
Velma Faye Bodine, 81, Mission, Texas, died Saturday, April 22, 2000, at her home. She was born Oct. 22, 1918, in Hereford, Texas, to George and May Tevis Smith. The family moved to Neodesha, Kan., where she graduated from high school. She also graduated from Independence, Kan., Community College with an associate degree. On June 7, 1938, she married Charles D. Bodine in Independence, Kan. They later lived in Wichita, Kan., Bolivar and Mulvane, Kan. After their retirement they moved to Mission, Texas. She retired from real estate and was also a homemaker. Survivors include one son, C. David Bodine Jr. of Forsyth; two daughters, Lucinda Rather of Dallas, Texas, and Kathy Jones of Mountain Home, Idaho; one brother, Forrest Smith of Merriam, Kan.; two sisters, Pearl Nehls of Minneapolis, Minn., and Betty Plummer of Bloomington, Ill.; nine grandchildren and six great-grandsons. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Bodine, on March 27, 2000; two brothers and one sister. Graveside services were Saturday, April 29, at the Neodesha Cemetery, Neodesha, Kan., under the direction of the Loran Fawcett Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wilson County Hospital Cancer Fund or to the Kansas State Cancer Research Foundation. A00008B2000MY03
Lois I. Davis Box, 87, Basehor, Kan., died Monday, April 17, 2000, in the Tonganoxie Nursing Center, Tonganoxie, Kan. She was born May 1, 1912, in Aldrich and had lived in Basehor, Kan., since 1948. She was a homemaker and a member of the First Baptist Church of Basehor, Kan. She is survived by her husband, Otis C. Box; six sons, Louis Box and his wife, Barbara, of Linwood, Kan., Dr. Robert A. Box and his wife, Linda, of Bella Vista, Ark., Jerry O. Box and his wife, Marilyn, of Arab, Ala., Fred Box and his wife, Lisa, of Basehor, Kan., Larry Box and his wife, Linda, of Baldwin, Kan., and Charles Box and his wife, Shannon, of Fair Play; two daughters, Joyce Williams and her husband, Melvin, of Lawrence, Kan., and Janet Rudd of the home; 25 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends. Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 20, in the First Baptist Church of Basehor, Kan., with burial following in Glenwood Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Alden-Harrington Funeral Home, Bonner Springs, Kan. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. today (Wednesday) in the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Basehor, Kan. A00008B2000AR19
Barbara Ann Boyle, 62, Humansville, died Monday, April 24, 2000, in Camden Health Center, Harrisonville. The daughter of John and Lillis Garretson, she was born at home in Cliquot on Aug. 22, 1937. Following graduation from Humansville High School, she worked two years at the Bolivar license bureau. She also worked at the Humansville Truck Line, later working for Sue and Allen Garretson for 14 years. She married Eldon Lee Boyle in 1958, and they were the parents of five children. She was a member of the Flemington Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Eldon Boyle; her father, John Garretson; and one brother, Robert Garretson. She is survived by her mother, Lillis Watkins of Humansville; five children, Annetta Bogart of Oklahoma City, Okla., Lisa Mitchell of Chillicothe, Verna Burkhart of East Lynne, LaDonna Routh of Humansville and John Boyle of East Lynne; a brother, Allen Garretson of Humansville; 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Services will be at 1 p.m. today (Wednesday) in Murray Chapel, Humansville, with the Rev. Martin Micke officiating. Pallbearers will be Roger Burkhart, Chris Bogart, Gary Clark, Howard McElwain, David Boyle and Joey Stillwell. Interment will be in Flemington Cemetery. A00008B2000AR26
Rolla Ervin Breshears, 79, Wichita, Kan., formerly of Weaubleau, died Sunday, April 16, 2000, in Medicalodge Healthcare of Wichita. The son of Harvey D. and Lizzie Foster Breshears, he was born in Benton County near Iconium July 27, 1920. He married June Voyles on July 10, 1957, and she preceded him in death May 2, 1992. A resident of Wichita, Kan., for the past 10 years, he was a lifelong resident of the Weaubleau area. He was a retired farmer. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Elmer Neal Breshears and Russell Breshears. Survivors include three children, Rolla Wayne Breshears of Macks Creek, Larry Breshears of Wichita, Kan., and Karla Tennison of Clinton; two brothers, Richard Breshears of Collins and Leland Breshears of Weaubleau; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Services were Tuesday, April 18, in Murray Chapel, Humansville, with the Rev. Mike Brixey officiating. Pallbearers were Larry Breshears, Jim Tennison, Dewayne Tennison, Jeff Sutton, Mark Fox and Leland Breshears Jr. Interment was in Humansville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation. A00008B2000AR19
Mark Aaron Dohle, 40, Dunnegan, died Sunday, April 2, 2000, at his home. The son of David and Anna Marie Dohle, he was born June 5, 1959, at Winfield, Kan. He was a graduate of Fair Play High School and attended Southwest Baptist University. Most recently he had been employed at Hood's Machine and Welding. He was preceded in death by his father. Survivors include his mother and stepfather, Anna Marie and George Mauzey, Dunnegan; a sister, Ramona Dohle, El Dorado Springs; and a nephew, Jeffery, El Dorado Springs. Services will be at 11 a.m. today (Wednesday) in Murray Funeral Home, Humansville, with the Rev. John Spencer and the Rev. Jarred File officiating. Interment will be in Rose Bank Cemetery, Mulberry, Kan. A00008B2000AR05
John T. Eagon, 82, of Bolivar died at 4 a.m. Thursday, April 13, 2000, at the Turtle Creek Estates, west of Bolivar, after a brief illness. He was born March 1, 1918, at Humansville and was a lifelong resident of the Polk County area. Surviving are two half-brothers, Marion Kelley of Humansville and Lee Kelley of Kingman, Ariz. No funeral services are planned at this time, and burial will be at a later date in the Flemington Cemetery under the direction of Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar. A00008B2000AR19
Amogene Fortner, 81, Willard, died at 7:55 p.m. Thursday, April 13, 2000, following a lengthy illness. The daughter of Norval and Lettie Mae Guy Stokes, she was born July 26, 1918, near Morrisville in Greene County. She was a graduate of Morrisville High School in 1935 and attended Southwest Missouri State College. She graduated from Drury College with a B.S. in elementary education, and earned her master's degree from Drury in 1962. She taught elementary school in Ash Grove, Bois d'Arc and Willard and retired from the Republic school system. She was a member of the Willard First Baptist Church. She was married to Stanley "Jack" Fortner on May 29, 1941, and they shared more than 58 years together. She was preceded in death by her parents and by two sisters and brothers-in-law, Jewell and Bill Leu and Lecta and John Denney. She is survived by her husband, Stanley "Jack" Fortner of the home; a cousin, Rory Guy of VanNuys, Calif.; two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Ryan and her husband, Donald, and Doris Fortner, all of Springfield; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. Services were Sunday, April 16, in Willard First Baptist Church with the Rev. Tim Warren and Carl Swiney officiating. Interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery, Willard, under the direction of Wilson-Brim-Daniel FUneral Home, Ash Grove. A00008B2000AR19
Cassandra Renee "Casey" Jones, 15, Morrisville, died Monday afternoon, April 10, 2000, from the effects of cystic fibrosis while waiting for a lung transplant. The daughter of Scott Jones and Renee Latimer, she was born April 5, 1985, in Springfield. She was a lifelong resident of the Walnut Grove and Morrisville areas and was in the ninth grade at Marion C. Early Schools. She was a member of Eudora Baptist Church, where she was active in the youth group. She was a member of Girl Scouts Dogwood Trails Troop No. 113. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Lonnie Jones. She is survived by her parents, Renee and Charles Hudson of the home and Scott and Christy Jones of Springfield; her brother, Caylen Jones of the home; a stepbrother, John Calhoun-MIller of Springfield; her maternal grandparents, Paul and Linda Latimer and Louella and Larry Bedford, all of Walnut Grove; her paternal grandmother, Lanell Jones of Billings; and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins. Services were Saturday, April 15, in Eudora Baptist Church with the Revs. Lonnie Killingsworth, Jim Brown, Lon Killingsworth and Bill Pringle officiating. Interment was in Greene Lawn Cemetery, Walnut Grove, under the direction of Wilson Brim-Daniel Funeral Home, Walnut Grove. Memorial contributions may be given to the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Missouri, 2684 County Road 4028, Holts Summit MO 65043. A00008B2000AR19
Walter Kelley, 79, Lebanon, died at 3:10 a.m. Tuesday, April 11, 2000, in Breech Regional Medical Center. He is survived by his wife, Geraldine Stewart McColm Kelley, of the home; two sons, Ron L. Kelley and his wife, Michelle, of Hooksett, N.H., and Michael A. Kelley and his wife, Lily, of Sulfer Rock, Ark.; one stepdaughter, Linda Trolinger and her husband, Don, of Cuba; five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Services were Saturday, April 15, in Colonial Funeral Home, Lebanon, with the Rev. Dave Menge officiating. Burial will be in Reed Cemetery near Half Way. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. A00008B2000AR19
Roy Glenn Lewis, 76, Pittsburg, died at 10:30 p.m. Thursday, April 13, 2000, in his home after an extended illness. He was born May 11, 1923, at Kansas City, Kan., the son of Delos Floyd and Victoria Williams Lewis. He had retired from the Missouri Division of Employment Security and was a member of the Bethel Southern Baptist Church at Pittsburg. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. He and his wife had moved to the Pittsburg area about 15 years ago. Surviving are his wife, Margaret J. Lewis, of the home; two daughters, Linda Jean Lewis of Columbia and Ila Marie Morrow and her husband, Greg, of California; a sister, Peach M. Barker of Wanut Creek, Calif.; a brother, Donald F. Lewis of Borger, Texas; five grandchildren, Erin Margaret Lewis, Blair Jeanmarie Lewis, Valarie Linn Ford, Patrick Scott Morrow and James Glenn Morrow; and a great-granddaughter, Brooklyn Marie Ford. Funeral services were Sunday, April 16, in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Charles D. Good officiating. Musical soloist was Giana Andrews with Ruth Medley as the accompanist. A second funeral service was held Monday, April 17, in the Edinburg Baptist Church at Edinburg with the Rev. Greg Morrow officiating. Burial followed in the Edinburg I.O.O.F. Cemetery under the direction of the Whittaker-Eades Funeral Home of Trenton. A00008B2000AR19
Michael H. McClelland, 50, Kansas City, died Friday, April 21, 2000. He was born June 2, 1949, to Bette and Bob McClelland in Gallatin. He graduated from Bolivar High School in May 1967 and from the University of Missouri at Columbia in January 1971. He is survived by his parents, who live in Springfield; his brother, Jeff McClelland, his wife, Liz, and their two children, John Robert and Shannon. Services were Monday, April 24, in Hope-Eldringhoff Funeral Home, Gallatin, with burial in Winston Cemetery. A00008B2000AR26
Paul Uhrig Merrell, 79, Marshall, died Sunday, April 9, 2000, at the Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall. He was born July 4, 1920, in Wakenda, the son of Ernest and Edith Uhrig Merrell. On Jan. 20, 1941, in New Franklin, he married Dorothy M. Cramer, and she preceded him in death on Nov. 9, 1993. He was then married to Bea Sheehan Merrell, and she survives of the home. He served as a radio operator in the U.S. Navy druing World War II and was awarded a victory medal. He was a member of the V.F.W. He worked as a route salesman for Wonder Bread in Marshall for 20 years. In 1974 he moved to Lake Pomme de Terre, where he owned and operated the Captain Jack's Amusement Center. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Marshall. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three sons, James Merrell and his wife, Lela, of Lincoln, Ron Merrell and his wife, Debbie, of Altamonte Springs, Fla., and Randy Merrell and his wife, Jan, of Lee's Summit; two brothers, Nelson Merrell and his wife, Grayce, of Clearwater, Fla., and Raymond Merrell and his wife, Helen, of Liberty; five sisters, Ernestine Wheeler of Florissant, Dorothy Turner of Kansas City, Coralee Morris of Harlingen, Texas, Norma Jones of Hamilton and Mildred Malan of Gravois Mills; two brothers-in-law, James Cramer of Blue Springs and Pete Cramer of Sweet Springs; eight grandchildren, Jennifer, Julie, Paul, Aaron, Stacey, Lindsey and Jessica; eight great-grandhcildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife and one sister. Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 15, at the First United Methodist Church, Marshall, with visitation following. Arrangements are under the direction of the Sweeney-Reser-Wills Funeral Home, Marshall. A00008B2000AR12
Bill E. Mooney, 42, Springfield, died Friday, April 14, 2000, at Citizens Memorial Hospital. He was a mechanic and a U.S. Army veteran. Survivors include his wife, Terry Mooney, of the home; two children, Shawn Mooney and Christopher Mooney; and two sisters. Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 20, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North, Springfield, with burial following in the Missouri Veterans' Cemetery. Visitation will be after 5 p.m. today (Wednesday) at the funeral home. A00008B2000AR19
Jonathan L. Neuhart, 19, Jefferson City, died Sunday, April 9, 2000, at the University of Missouri Health Sciences Center, Columbia, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He was born June 27, 1980, in Jefferson City, the son of Eddy and Margene L. Wakefield Neuhart, who both survive in Jefferson City. A lifelong resident of the Jefferson City area, he was a 1999 graduate of Jefferson City High School. He was attending State Fair Community College. He had been employed part time by the Sub Shop for the past two years. He was a member and served as the sound engineer for Memorial Baptist Church of Jefferson City. Besides his parents, he is also survived by a sister, Jesica Neuhart of Jefferson City, and his paternal grandfather, Charles E. Neuhart of Bolivar. Services will be at 10 a.m. today (Wednesday) at Memorial Baptist Church, Jefferson City, with the Rev. Ken Lumley and the Rev. Mike Rapp officiating. Graveside services and interment will be at 2 p.m. in the Mount Olive Cemetery, Bolivar. Arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary, Jefferson City. Memorial contributions may be made to Memorial Baptist Church. A00008B2000AR12
Hellen Ruth Breshears Parson, older of identical twin daughters born to Birchie M. and Loie Miller Breshears, was born Sept. 11, 1920, and finished her journey at the Christian Care Center in Hermitage on Friday, April 14, 2000. She had suffered a debilitating stroke in February of this year and had continued to decline in health until her death. During this recent illness, she received the best of medical care from the professionals at Citizens Memorial Hospital and the Christian Care Center of Hermitage. The commitment, concern and love given to Hellen by members of these two facilities will continue to console and encourage the family in the future. There have been many men in Hellen's life, but only two who remained and received her truest love: the first, her saviour Jesus, whom she acknowledged in her youth, and the second, her husband, Victor, whom she took as her husband at the very young age of 16 and remained with him for just over 63 years. There were very few nights in those 63 years that they spent apart. Hellen leaves behind her husband of 63 years, Victor; her four sons and their families, Kent and his wife, Shirley, of Wheatland, Lee of Riverside, Dwight and his wife, Nancy, of St. Joseph and Mike and his wife, Teresa, of Bolivar; two sisters, Mable Smith of Hermitage and her identical twin sister, Ellen Thompson, and her husband, Everett, of Redlands, Calif.; three sisters-in-law, Velma Reed, Bernita Parson and Ruby Parson; 10 grandchildren, Diamela and Devin, Elizabeth, Lisa and Jeff, Marlene, Bridget and Larry, Stephanie and Kelly; 11 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews and numerous friends. Services were Sunday, April 16, in Hathaway-Peterman Funeral Home, Wheatland, with burial following in Dooley Bend Cemetery. A00008B2000AR26
Evelyn Orene Patton, 79, Bolivar, died Friday, April 7, 2000, in the home of her caregiver following a lingering illness. She was born Jan. 15, 1921, in Delphos, Kan., to Leslie and Alice Fay Nye Penn. On June 29, 1941, in Redfield, Kan., she was united in marriage to Cecil V. Patton. She was a homemaker and a member of Southern Hills Baptist Church. Survivors include a brother, William Penn of Dixon, Ill., and her caregiver, Nina Thirion of Bolivar. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Cecil, who died on Feb. 5, 2000. Graveside services were Monday, April 10, in Greenwood Cemetery with the Rev. Berman Grant officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Pitts Chapel. A00008B2000AR12
Opal May Pfitzner, 81, Bolivar, died Monday, April 3, 2000, in St. John's Regional Health Center, Springfield. The daughter of Charlie Lyle and Marie Anna Bauer Steinshouer, she was born Jan. 11, 1919, in Bolivar. She attended Southwest Baptist College and taught school for two years. On June 2, 1949, she married John J. Pfitzner. She was a homemaker and a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Lester Steinshouer. Survivors include her husband, John, of the home; two children, Charles Pfitzner of Bolivar and Mary Ann Penn of Overland Park, Kan.; and four grandchildren. Funeral mass will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 6, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Pat Wissman officiating. Interment will be in St. Wenceslaus Cemetery. Parish prayer services will be at 7 p.m. today (Wednesday) at the funeral home followed by visitation. A00008B2000AR05
Mildred Irene Pressler, 84, of Long Lane died Wednesday afternoon, April 12, 2000, at the home of her son after a brief illness. She was a retired Registered Nurse and a long time resident of Ft. Wayne, Ind. She had moved to this area about four years ago. She was preceded in death by her husband, J.D. Pressler. Surviving are two sons, Ronald Pressler and his wife, Linda, of Long Lane and John Pressler of Layton, Utah; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Her body was sent to the D.O. McComb and Son Funeral Home in Ft. Wayne, Ind., where services will be held next week. Burial will be in the Covington Memorial Gardens at Ft. Wayne, Ind. Local arrangements were under the direction of Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar. A00008B2000AR19
Juanita "Deedo" Robertson, 94, Brighton, died at 2:10 a.m. Wednesday, April 26, 2000, in Maranatha Manor, Springfield, following a lengthy illness. She was a homemaker and had attended Spring Hill and Brighton schools. She was a member of Brighton Baptist Church. Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Harold and Marlene Robertson of Brighton and William and Claudette Robertson of San Clemente, Calif.; three grandchildren, one great-granddaughter and one great-grandson, two great-great-grandsons and several nieces and nephews. Serivces were Saturday, April 29, in Pitts Chapel. Burial followed in Brighton Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jim Walker, Keith Bacon, Bubba Boyd, Don Dotson, Ron Blehm and Banner Agundez. A00008B2000MY03
Gertrude Crawford Seamster, 85, of Polk died Tuesday, April 18, 2000, at Citizens Memorial Hospital. She was born August 4, 1914, in Hickory County to Dave and Martha Nelson Crawford. She attended school at the Browder School. She was united in marriage to Olin McNatt in 1933, and to this union one son was born. She farmed in Hickory County on her parents' farm, and then she bought a farm next to their place. After five short years of marriage, Olin passed away in 1938. Then in 1953 she was married to Artie Seamster. They stayed on the farm as well as Artie's farm in Polk County. Later on they retired to Polk County, where Artie passed away in 1979. Gertrude stayed home where she loved to garden, raising tomatoes, potatoes and green beans. She enjoyed sewing and cooking. She always said you were put on this earth to work, and that is what she did. She enjoyed visiting with her family, friends and neighbors. She was saved when she was a girl, then joined Nemo Missionary Baptist Church, where she was a lifelong member. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dave and Martha; both of her husbands, Olin McNatt and Artie Seamster; her son, David Leo McNatt; two brothers, Oral and Elvie Crawford; two sisters, Sadie Blackwell and Mildred Bandel; one stepson, Willard Seamster; and one stepdaughter, Nola Mae Storment. She is survived by three grandsons, Dennis McNatt, David McNatt and Duane McNatt; one sister, Bertha Hooper of Hermitage; five stepsons, Junior Seamster of Wichita, Kan., Donnie Seamster of Towncreek, Ala., Johnnie Seamster of Topeka, Kan., Alvie Seamster of Polk and Charles Seamster of Tupelo, Miss.; three stepdaughters, Juanita Wilson of Polk, Betty Monier of Springfield and Shirley Potts of Half Way; five great-grandchildren, 34 step-grandchildren, 82 step-great-grandchildren, eight step-great-great-grandchildren and a host of other family and friends who will all sadly miss her. Services were conducted Friday, April 21, at the Cantlon Otterness Funeral Chapel of Urbana with Brother Donnie Lightfoot officiating. Joyce Noblitt sang "Amazing Grace" and "In the Graden," accompanied by Carla Moore, pianist. Pallbearers were Denton Roberts, Carl Jones, Eddie Ben Gorden, Wayne Vest, Bob Darby and Donnie Brannon. Burial was in the Nemo Cemetery. Memorial contributions made to the Nemo Cemetery may be left at the funeral home. A00008B2000AR26
Lenora Lucille Severns, 87, Springfield, died at 6:15 a.m. Tuesday, April 25, 2000, at Greene Haven in Springfield after a lingering illness. She was born Nov. 6, 1912, in Urbana, the daughter of Everett and Mamie Howard Williams. She was a former longtime resident of Bolivar and a member of the Bolivar First Baptist Church. She was the widow of the late Chauncey S. Severns, who preceded her in death in 1972. She is survived by one daughter, Noretta Holt of Willard, and three sons, Jim Severns of Prescott, Ark., Ronald Severns of O'Fallon and Durward Severns of Bolivar; 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 27, in Oaklawn Cemetery, Buffalo, with Bro. Donald Bybee officiating. Casketbearers will be Donald Severns, Darrell Severns, William Severns, Mark Holt, Brad Holt and Doug Severns. Arrangements are under the direction of Butler Funeral Home. A00008B2000AR26
Alva B. Simpson, 82, Meridian, Idaho, formerly of the Polk County area, died Monday, April 3, 2000, in Boise, Idaho. He was born July 24, 1917, in Polk to Walter and Anne Ahart Simpson. On Aug. 14, 1943, in Santa Paula, Calif., he was united in marriage to Flossie Lee Butler. He was retired form the aerospace industry where he had been a maintenance supervisor. He is survived by his wife, Flossie, of the home; two daughters and a son-in-law, Donna and Doug Hart of Meridian, Idaho, and Carol Mooney of Grants Pass, Ore.; five brothers, Delbert Simpson of Shady Point, Okla., Bob Simpson of Polk, Leo Simpson of Bolivar, Romie Dale Simpson and Cliff Simpson, both of Ventura, Calif.; three sisters, Betty Ives and Dora Kay Miller, both of Bolivar, and Edna Pearl Jackson of Springfield; five grandsons, Matthew Hart, Drew Hart, Brent Hart, Clint Mooney and his wife, Christine, and Barrett Mooney; and a great-grandson, Anthony Mooney. Services were Saturday, April 8, in Pitts Chapel with Brother Donnie Lightfoot officiating. Burial followed in Payne Cemetery. Pallbearers were C.B. Mooney, Timmy Simpson, Ricky Simpson, Jerry Simpson, Robert Jackson and Leroy Simpson. A00008B2000AR12
Vivian Jane Skidmore, 85, Pleasant Hope, died at 1:55 a.m. Friday, April 28, 2000, in her brother's home. She was born Aug. 26, 1914, in Greene County. She retired from Cox Medical Center North. She was a member of Peace Chapel Assembly of God, Fair Grove. She gave of herself unselfishly for her family. She was a dear sister and aunt to many. She devoted many years to taking care of her father and siblings. Although she never bore children, she often filled the role of mother and grandmother. She enjoyed spending time in the garden and reading her Bible. Her loving parents, Reece and Ethel Skidmore, and her brother, Elroy Skidmore, preceded her in death. She is survived by her sister, Martha Cranor, and her husband, Leonard, of Rogersville; two brothers and their wives, Moncey and Joan Skidmore and Marvin and Betty Skidmore, all of Pleasant Hope; seven nephews, five nieces, 18 great-nephews, 21 great-nieces, 11 great-great-nephews, 12 great-great-nieces and many cousins and friends. Services were Monday, May 1, in Greenlawn Funeral Home North with burial in Freewill Chapel Cemetery near Olive. The family wishes to thank Hospice of Southwest Missouri for all their help. A00008B2000MY03
Albert Andy Vest Sr. was born March 26, 1926, and passed away Wednesday, April 26, 2000, on a beautiful spring morning. He was born in Half Way to Robert Vest and Sarah Belle Clemens Vest. He married Martha Emily Story on March 9, 1952, at the home of the Rev. Frank Little. To this union were born eight children. Albert was saved in the fall of 1976 and joined the Schofield MIssionary Baptist Church. He worked in the Half Way Feed Mill for seven years before beginning a career with the Missouri Department of Transportation in Half Way. After 29 years of service, he retired in 1987. Albert was a sportsman who loved to hunt and trap. He loved wildlife and spent many joyful hours gazing out his windows into a clearing, watching the deer and turkeys. He loved both flower and vegetable gardening, and in the last few years his hobby had been planting and caring for fruit trees. Always the provider, he would often say, "I may not be here to eat the fruit, but the kids will." The bond Albert shared with his wife and family was truly a special one. Over the last few years, he and his wife, Martha, were almost inseparable. The depth of their love and the bond of companionship grew deeper with each passing day. Albert had a special way of making everyone think they were his favorite. He never told them they were, he just made them feel that way. His children would tease him, trying to get him to admit they were his favorite. He would always say, "Well, you're one of them." His parents, his brother, William Mose Vest, and his daughter, Vanessa Ann Vest Blankenship, preceded Albert in death. Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Martha; seven children and their spouses, Albert Andy Vest Jr. and Nancy, Cynthia Ellen Vest Payne and Ron, Veva Jane Vest Hegle and Gary, Earl Blankenship, Samuel Joseph Floyd Vest and Cindy, Robert Vest, Marla Linette Vest Henry and Michael and Lucille Shannon Vest Floyd and Ronnie. Also surviving are one brother and his wife, Robert Lee Vest and Velma; two sisters, Veva Irene Vest and Myrtle Jane Radford and her husband, Richard; a sister-in-law, Maxine Vest; a brother-in-law, Samuel Arthur Story Jr. and his wife, Mary; and 20 grandchildren. Services were Saturday, April 29, in Pitts Chapel with burial following in Schofield Cemetery. Pallbearers were Albert Andy Vest Jr., Sam Vest, Robert Vest, Ronald Payne, Gary Hegle and Gary Drake. Honorary pallbearers were his grandsons and sons-in-law. "Jesus said unto her, 'I am the resurrection, and the life; he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.'" John 11:25-26. It is in those words that we find comfort. Not only has God given us the precious memories of each day you filled our lives with joy, he has also given us the wonderful gift of knowing we can be together again for eternity. Daddy, we know you are in heaven now with our Annie. Know we are thinking of you and will love you always. A00008B2000MY03
Emil Edward Stanek, 79, Bolivar, died Friday, April 7, 2000, in Parkview Health Care Facility. The son of Joseph T. and Mary Ruzicka Stanek, he was born near Bolivar April 19, 1920. On May 22, 1944, he married Virginia Jackson. A lifelong resident of Polk County, he was a farmer and a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He was a member of Council 8931 Knights of Columbus and Pope Pius X fourth degree Knights of Columbus, Springfield Council. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Joseph B. Stanek and Charles Stanek; and three sisters, Mame Francka, Rose Francka and Lillian Lane. Survivors include his wife, Virginia, of the home; three daughters, Linda Woods of Springfield, Sandra Sukovaty and Patricia Kirby, both of Bolivar; four sons, Victor Stanek, Mark Stanek and Chris Stanek, all of Bolivar, and Nick Stanek of Springfield; a brother, Frank Stanek of Long Island, N.Y.; four sisters, Sophia Westenberger of Springfield, Angeline Stanek of Bolivar, Dorothy Alberts of Chicago, Ill., and Emma Tribble of Mexico; 18 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Liturgy of Christian Burial was Tuesday, April 11, in Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Pat Wissman officiating. Lectors were Jessica Kirby and Andy Tribble. Altar server was Adam Quennoz. Music was by Margaret Kluthe, Kathy Hagar and Max Baer, accompanied by Carol Francka. Honorary pallbearers were Mike Woods, Jerry Sukovaty and Rolla Kirby. Pallbearers were Matthew Sukovaty, Andy Stanek, Jason Stanek, Kenton Stanek, Shawn Woods and Justin Stanek. Interment was in St. Wenceslaus Cemetery under the direction of Murray Funeral Home. A00008B2000AR19
Eva V. Stewart, 79, Springfield, died Wednesday, April 5, 2000, in Greene Haven Nursing Home, Springfield. She was born Oct. 13, 1920, to Clifford A. and Gola Coursey Wells in Van. She is survived by her husband, Olin Cleo Stewart; a daughter, Rhonda Freeman, and her husband, Jerry; a son, Kennard Stewart, and his wife, Sherry; four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, two step-granddaughters and three step-great-granddaughters. Graveside services were Saturday, April 8, in Greenwood Cemetery with the Rev. Harold Hendrickson and Pastor Leland Burch officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Herman Lohmeyer Funeral Home, Springfield. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 2021 W. Waverly, Suite 100, Springfield MO 65804; Hospice of Southwest Missouri, 1465 E. Primrose, Suite A, Springfield MO 65804; or a charity of the donor's choice. A00008B2000MY17
Bernard Enoch Underwood, 71, Bolivar, died Thursday, April 27, 2000, at Citizens Memorial Hospital. He was born Feb. 15, 1929, in Fair Play, the son of Benjamin Harrison and Bessie Cleo Ball Underwood. He attended school at Fair Play and at the age of 16 joined the Merchant Marines, where he served for two years. Then he joined the U.S. Navy, where he served his country for 21 years. He was very proud to tell anyone that he was retired from the Navy. On Dec. 23, 1977, he was united in marriage to Ruth Bays. At this time he went to work for Griesmer Stone Co. in Springfield, where he worked for 12 years before retiring. He was a loving husband, a devoted father and stepfather. He enjoyed being with his family for fish frys and homemade ice cream. He was a kind and gentle man whom everyone loved. He will be sadly missed by all who loved him, until we are all reunited again. Bernie was saved at the Fox School House at the age of 14 years and was baptized at Bear Creek. Later he attended Center Point Baptist Church until failing health. Bernie was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Billy, Frank, Fred, Farrol and Gordon; his step-son-in-law, Jim Coffey; and step-grandson, Todd Coffey. Bernie is survived by his wife, Ruth of the home; his daughter, Margenette Wells, and grandson, Richard Holloway, both of Antioch, Calif.; his sister and brother-in-law, Maxine and Bill Deaton of Bolivar; two sisters-in-law, Anna Dean Underwood of Grandview and Wanetta Underwood of Independence; three stepchildren, Jerry Bays and his wife, Dana, of Lewisville, Texas, Judy Carman and her husband, Dan, of Bolivar and Glenda Bays of Bolivar. Also surviving are 12 stepgrandchildren, 22 step-great-grandchildren and a host of other family and friends who will sadly miss him. Services were Sunday, April 30, in the Butler Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Dan Breshears and Bro. Floy Parrack. Musical selections were "The Last Mile Of The Way," "The Eastern Gate" and "Go Rest High On That Mountain." Burial was in the Greenwood Cemetery, with full military honors conducted by the Galmay V.F.W. Post No. 9638. Casketbearers were Paul Underwood, John Underwood, Glen Bays, Hugh Hagar, Roy Gladden and Jerry Bunch. A00008B2000MY03
Betty Lou Winslow, 71, Marshfield, died at 11:45 a.m. Sunday, April 2, 2000, in Cox Medical Center South, Springfield. Survivors include her husband, H.C. "Bud" Winslow of Marshfield; two sons, Herbert Winslow and his wife, Donna, of Carthage and Bob Winslow and his wife, Jan, of Highlandville; three grandchildren, Tres Winslow and his wife, Lisa, of Dearborn, Heather Winslow of Kansas City and Tobin Winslow and his wife, Jennifer, of Manhattan, Kan.; two great-grandchildren, Elizabeth and Rebecca of Dearborn; and one brother, Cecil "Robbie" Robertson and his wife, Willis, of Marshfield. Services were Tuesday, April 4, at Day Funeral Home, Marshfield, with Dr. Jerry Cooney officiating. Burial was in Marshfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Marshfield United Methodist Church. A00008B2000AR05
Donald W. Wolff, 56, Morrisville, died Tuesday afternoon, April 25, 2000, as the result of a traffic accident while riding his bicycle in the northbound lanes of Mo. 13 at the intersection of Mo. 215. Services were Friday, April 28, in Greenlawn Funeral Home North, Springfield, with burial in White Chapel Memorial Gardens. A00008B2000MY03
Cecil Leroy Wollard, Bolivar, died at 2:50 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2000, at Citizens Memorial Hospital at the age of 82 years, 8 months and 8 days. He was born July 27, 1917, near Dunnegan, Polk County, to Henry Weaver and Della Mae Nickels Wollard. The youngest of four children, including Eunice Edith, Mary Viola and Leland Rechow Wollard. He was a lifelong resident of Polk County, having lived near Dunnegan, Rondo and then finally settling on a hill four miles northwest of Bolivar in 1937, when he lived the remainder of his life. Around 1933 he met his future wife, Wauneta Faye Henson, and on October 19, 1938, they were married in the Bolivar courthouse. To this union two sons were born, Marvin Leroy and Larry Lee. Cecil and Faye celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on October 19, 1998. He was many things in his lifetime: a dairy famer, stockman, carpenter, electrician and all around handyman. But most of all he was a good father, friend, neighbor and a wonderful "Poppy" to his granchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a faithful member, deacon and trustee of the Southern Hills Baptist Church of Bolivar. He was a member of the Senior Men's Sunday school class. He was baptized, along with his wife and children, in October 1956. He was preceded in death by his wife, Faye, of almost 61 years, who died September 23, 1999; his parents, Weaver and Della Wollard ; two sisters, Eunice Bell and Mary Fowler; a brother, Leland Wollard; and one son, Marvin Wollard. He is survived by one son, Larry Wollard, and his wife, Judy, of Bolivar; a daughter-in-law, Betty Wollard of Springfield; three grandchildren and their families, Scott Clark and his children, Trevor, Paige and Brandon of Englewood, Colo., Julie Wollard Trout and her husband, Brian, and son, Christian, of Bolivar and and Justin Wollard of Bolivar; four step-grandchildren; eleven step-great-grandchildren, including Michelle Long Windmoeller of Columbia and Christian "Cree" Long of Springfield; five step-great-great-grandchildren; one brother-in-law, Stanley Henson and his wife, Nora, of Nevada; three sisters-in-law, Mrs. Jewell Wollard and Mrs. Thelma Fish, both of Bolivar, and Mrs. Emma Galyan and her husband, Leo "Pete" of Fillmore, Calif.; several nieces, nephews and a host of friends and other relatives. Services were held Saturday, April 8, in Southern Hills Baptist Church with the Rev. David Berryhill officiating. Musical selections were "Going Down the Valley, One by One," "One Day at a Time" and "The Old Rugged Cross," performed by Mary Jenkins and Tammie Kelley. Casketbearers were Gene Bolling, John Smashey, Oren Carson, Ron George, Mike Lenz, George McKinney, Gene Potts and Bysor Shelenhamer. Honorary casketbearers were the members of the Seniors Men's Sunday school class of Southern Hills, Everett Baumgarden, Berman Grant, Finis Hammons, Ralph Hankey, Earl Poston and Leonard Paxton. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of the Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Citizens Memorial Home Health Services-Hospice. A00008B2000April12