Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel Obituaries

About Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel

Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel is a trusted and compassionate funeral home located in the heart of Sylvan Grove, Kansas. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional service, this family-owned mortuary has been serving the community for generations. Located at 201 N. Maryland Avenue, Sylvan Grove, KS, 67481, Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel is dedicated to helping families celebrate the lives of their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

Founded on a foundation of compassion, empathy, and understanding, Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel has built a reputation for providing personalized and professional funeral services. The team at Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel takes pride in getting to know each family they serve, taking the time to understand their unique needs and preferences. This allows them to create customized funeral arrangements that truly reflect the life and legacy of the deceased.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Willis Lee Becker - December 31, 1931 - May 16, 2024

Departed: 05/16/2024 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: Willis Lee Becker was born December 31, 1931. He attended the Parochial Grade School at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church and graduated from the Sylvan Grove, KS High School in 1950.He joined the Navy Reserve as did his two brothers, Kenneth and a year later, Loren joined. The twins volunteered for active duty during the Korean War, during that time, Willis earned 4 battle stars. Upon returning home he was a lifetime farmer.

He played the clarinet in the Wilson Municipal Band, The Heart Of America Concert Band and other groups. The Harmony Four was a dance band that he and brother, Kenneth formed that played for weddings and other venues after being discharged.

He was an active life member of the VFW and American Legion for 70 years plus. He loved to volunteer in every organization he was a part of.

He recorded Sunday morning church services, advent and lent church services and delivered them to Senior Centers, shut-ins,and nursing homes.

He had many friends and never met a stranger. He will be missed , deep within our hearts we know that Willis is in heaven waiting for someone to play a joke on.

Willis was predeceased by his parents, John H. and Louise (Panzer) Becker, and a sister-in-law DiAnn Becker. He is survived by brothers Kenneth of Sylvan Grove, KS and Loren (and wife, Jeanne) of Duncan, OK, a niece, Taunya Campos (and husband, Arturo) of Alvarado, TX , a nephew, John Becker(and wife, Deborah) of Denver, CO, great nephews, Thomas and Steven Becker, Kolton Campos and a great niece, SaVana Campos.

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Leslie Joe Zachgo - November 18, 1951 - February 19, 2024

Departed: 02/19/2024 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: Leslie "Joe" Zachgo, 72, of Ash Grove, Kansas passed away February 19th, 2024, at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.

Joe was born November 18, 1951, in Salina Kansas to Kenneth and Ila (Parli) Zachgo. He was the third of six children. He attended Shiloh, Ash Grove, and Hunter schools before graduating from Sylvan Unified High School in 1969. From there he enrolled in the mechanic program at NCK Vo-Tech, graduating in 1970. While at Vo-Tech, he met Kay Speaks and they were married June 17, 1972, at the First Christian Church in Beloit, KS. Kay and Joe were blessed with 3 children: Jeremiah Joe, Carla Jean, and Cynthia Diane.

Joe was very handy and wore many hats throughout his life. He worked at Thrun Brother's Garage, Quartzite, Kent Manufacturing, and Great Plains Manufacturing. He often reminisced about his days traveling to Colorado for work. Joe loved the mountains. He also ran his own family business harvesting for local farmers each summer and found great joy in sharing this with his family.

Joe volunteered with the Hunter Fire Department for many years. He had a great love for playing the card game Pitch. Joe had the remarkable ability to "shoot the moon" before even picking up his cards, and he rarely went set. Joe was also known for his hard work and helping others with their building projects. He loved welding and working in his shop. Joe always loved seeing and hearing about his grandchildren's adventures and latest achievements as well as sneaking them sweets when their parents weren't looking.

Leslie "Joe" is survived by Kay Zachgo of Cawker City, KS and their 3 children, Jeremiah (Roxy) Zachgo of Lincoln, KS, Carla (Ben) Stevens of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Cynthia (Garret) Wilkison of Cashion, OK; 8 Grandchildren: Desirrae (Brandon) Taylor, Jonah (Secylla) Zachgo, Cheyenne Zachgo (Julian Gonzalez), Baily Zachgo, Audi Luna-Young, Byron Wilkison, Maggie Jo Wilkison and Josephine Stevens; and his great grandchild, Addison Jo Taylor and another great-grandchild due any day. Joe is also survived by his siblings: Connie Lashell, Sandra (Edgar) Brummer, Jim Zachgo, Virginia (Travis) Naylor, and Toni (Royce) Hillegeist. He was proceeded in death by his parents Kenneth and Ila (Parli) Zachgo.

Joe's family would like to thank the staff and physicians at Hays Medical Center. They saw beyond his disease and treated Joe with respect, care, and professionalism. A special thank you also goes to Ashley Schneider; you went above and beyond your professional duties and truly helped our father keep his health as long as possible.

Cards and memorials can be sent to Kay Zachgo, c/o Cynthia Wilkison 433 Azalea NW, Cashion, OK 73016.

A celebration of life will be held at Hunter Community Center, 109 1st St, Hunter, KS 67452 Saturday, March 2nd at 11am.

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Kent Delbert Rahmeier - December 15, 1955 - January 21, 2024

Departed: 01/21/2024 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: Kent Delbert Rahmeier entered this world on December 15, 1955 in Lincoln, Kansas, to be cherished by his Father, Delbert Rahmeier and his Mother, Cora (Becker) Rahmeier. He died on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at the age of 68 after a battle of cancer.

Kent grew up on the Rahmeier Dairy south of Sylvan Grove. He attended the Bethlehem Lutheran School, and later graduated from Sylvan High School in 1974. He later attended North Central Kansas Area Vo-tech School in Beloit and received a 2-year certificate in Production Agriculture.

Kent was a true cattleman, and touched the lives of many people in the livestock industry. He enjoyed attending Cow-Calf Classics, where he would spend his winnings at the beer garden with other cattlemen from all over the state. Kent was a dedicated member of the Sylvan Grove Fair Association, serving over 40 years. Additionally, he enjoyed helping 4-H members with their beef projects and attending livestock shows locally and nationally. In his spare time, he enjoyed grilling for his family and hanging out with his grandchildren.

Kent was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Arlin Rahmeier; sister, Janice Tucker; and brother-in-law, Glenn Tucker.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy of the home; daughter, Erica Schmid (Kale) of Sylvan Grove; daughter, Kylie Rahmeier of Oakley; step-son, Gallo Brozek (Tausha) of Solomon; step-son, Matthew Hanson of Kentucky; step-son, Levi Brozek (Cheyenne) of Texas; step-son, Kerrick Kuder (Rebecca) of Texas; grandchildren, Brooklyn, Kyler, Saylor, Raeleigh, Townes, Benton, Elias, and Karson; and numerous other family and friends.

Kent left a lasting impact on everyone he met. He had a unique personality that always left others with a smile on their face or a pain in their stomach from laughing so hard. He will be greatly missed by family and friends, but is no longer in pain, and is resting in peace with the Lord.

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LeAnna Kay Meeks - December 25, 1939 - November 17, 2023

Departed: 11/17/2023 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: LeAnna Kay Meeks, 83, of Sabetha, KS, died on November 17, 2023, of natural causes. She was born December 25, 1939, at the country doctor’s house near Hunter, Kansas, to Elsie Mae Sigle (Hayden) and Frank Henry “Toots” Sigle, Jr. She married James Francis Meeks in 1962.

After graduation from Sylvan Grove High School, she attended Stormont-Vail Nursing School in Topeka and became a Registered Nurse. In her middle years she went back to college in the evenings at the University of Nebraska and completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She served the world as a nurse for 45 years -- her career included every facet of nursing care including emergency, intensive care, geriatric, pediatric, psychiatric, administration and regulatory compliance.

LeAnna contributed her enthusiasm and intellect to her community. She was an avid photography hobbyist, helped document athletics and activities for many years, and helped as a 4-H mom. During her years in Sylvan Grove, it was not unusual to have visitors or phone calls at all hours seeking medical advice or minor treatments. In her later years, she donated her time as a consultant to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services. Her favorite recent pastime was making custom quilts for each of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-nieces, and great-nephews. She explored family genealogy and left behind a treasure-trove of family history, stories, and photographs.

The wives of her boys were "daughters of her heart" and added a special joy to her life. LeAnna and Jim especially enjoyed vacations with their grandkids. Trips in their RV and vacations with family and friends were fun and even the mishaps were entertaining. The time spent with the “grands” and their families at their schools and homes were treasured. She especially enjoyed creating Christmas plays with homemade costumes and scripts for the grandchildren to act out. She honored family traditions such as “The Daisy Chain,” which was the girl grandchildren of ancestor Daisy Mae Sigle, the Hayden/Parsons girl cousins’ gatherings, and the annual Sigle/Sperry picnic.

Camping and boating at Wilson Lake from early in their marriage to the later years with family and friends was also enjoyed despite rain, windstorms, and tornado scares. LeAnna and Jim in their retirement years enjoyed the church fellowship of the United Methodist Potawatomi Church near their home in Jackson County, Kansas.

LeAnna was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Wendell Wayne Sigle and Randall Eugene Sigle, and brothers-in-law Gene Jepsen, Rick Wolfe, and Charles Knott. She is survived by her husband, James Meeks, now of Sabetha, KS; sons Jamie Meeks (Betsy), Shawnee, KS, and Jerry Meeks (Christy), Sabetha, KS; grandchildren Lydia Williamson (Brock), CJ Meeks (Hannah), Emily Fischer (Joseph), Derek Meeks, and Kasey Meeks; great-grandchildren Bristol, Nora, and Tori Williamson; sisters Retha Carpenter (Paul), Linda Jepsen, and Karen Wolfe; sisters-in-law Lorna Knott and Leean McGraw (Dave); and beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

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Ernest W. Kulich - February 05, 1929 - May 26, 2023

Departed: 05/26/2023 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: Ernest W. Kulich, 94, of Sylvan Grove, KS, passed into the next life in the early morning hours of Friday, May 26 in Lawrence, KS. He was born February 5, 1929 on the family farm to Joseph O. and Barbara M. (Hynes) Kulich. He married Dulcie (Lawson) Kulich in 1956.

Ernie farmed full time for more than 70 years, beginning after his eighth-grade year at Orbitello Country School, when he had to forgo further formal education. More hands were needed on the farm after his father became disabled, a brother left for military service, and his beloved sister Pauline died at age 16. Life became his teacher, and he was a good student of it. He enjoyed learning about farming and ranching ideas, other people and cultures, and faith, having decided to follow Jesus in 1957 and becoming a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Sylvan. He said he felt closest to God when outdoors in creation, whether planting a newly terraced field or welcoming a newborn calf.

In his younger days, Ernie played baseball on the men’s town team. Later he and Dulcie enjoyed competing for strikes and spares in bowling leagues, playing cards with friends and slamming down that trump card to take the last trick, and, most of all, going to waltz and polka dances. It was at a dance that he first met Dulcie, and from that time on, he never stopped delighting in whirling around the dance floor with the love of his life.

Ernie actively sought to serve his country, his community, and his church. He served two years in the Navy, 1953-1954, was a member of the Sylvan American Legion Post #359, served on the local school board and county conservation/ASCS boards, was a member of the Kansas Livestock Association, and helped with the local 4-H Club and county fairs.

He served as a church elder, including 17 years as Clerk of the Session, and was a member of Gideons.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents and all six of his siblings: Joe, Helen, Josephine, Adolph, Pauline, and Archie. He is survived by his wife Dulcie, now of Lawrence, KS; his son Steve [Anne], Shanghai, China; daughter Sheryl Kulich Potts [Joe], Lawrence, KS; and four granddaughters: Christy Kulich, Gehrden, Germany; Amy Kulich, Lӧrrach, Germany; Lauren (Potts) Hahn [Axel], Filderstadt, Germany; and Kelsey Potts, Denver, CO, as well as niece Rebecca (Ringler) Tounsand Hawk, Salina, KS; sister-in-law Shirley (Dobsky) Kulich, Holyrood, KS, and many other dear relatives and friends—all who remember Ernie as a loving and dedicated father, a good-for-laughs and caring grandfather, and a warm-hearted and generous neighbor who loved helping others.

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Thelma Mae Blase - June 01, 1932 - September 27, 2022

Departed: 09/27/2022 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: Thelma Mae Strecker Blasé, 90, of Sylvan Grove, Kansas passed away Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at Salina Regional Hospital. Thelma was born June 1, 1932, in Russell County. She was the daughter of David George Strecker and Elizabeth Mae Stellings Strecker. She attended, was confirmed and graduated from the Bethlehem Lutheran Grade school. She attended Lucas high school but quit and got married to Raymond Blasé on November 27, 1949 in Sylvan Grove. They had six children, 3 girls and 3 boys: Shirley Mae Blasé Small, Sylvan Grove; Judy Kay Blasé, Wilson; Marilyn Fay Errebo, Wilson; Louis Ray Blasé, Sylvan Grove; Robert David Blasé, Hoisington; and Richard Allan Blasé, deceased. She also had 16 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 14 great-great grandchildren.

Thelma went back to high school in 1977 and graduated with a diploma. Beside being a busy Mom, Grandma and Great Grandma, she was the bookkeeper for "Ray's Garage" on Main Street in Sylvan Grove. Thelma and Ray spent a lot of time fishing and camping. She took up tying fish flies; loved to read books from the library; collected butterflies and loved to cook. She decorated many of her kids and grandchildren’s wedding cakes.

Thelma was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

A 10 AM funeral service is planned for Monday, October 3, 2022, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Sylvan Grove. Pastor Christopher Craig is the officiant. Burial is at the Lutheran Cemetery.

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Sue Ann Lawson - January 27, 1932 - June 08, 2022

Departed: 06/08/2022 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: Sue Ann Lawson entered her Heavenly Home on Wednesday, June 8, 2022 from her home in Avondale Estates Georgia. She was 90 years old.

Sue Ann Lawson was preceded in death by her parents James Carl Alexander Sipes and Fannie Docky Girdner Sipes and her sister Mary Alice Sipes.

She leaves behind her husband of over 60 years Robert Henry “Bob” Lawson, Her lovely daughter Rebecca “Becky” Sue, loving son Robert Sipes “Rob” Lawson and his wife Laura Lawson.

She was born on Wednesday January 27, 1932 in the St. Rose Hospital, Great Bend, Kansas. Sue Ann Lawson attended Prairie Home School located on the N.E. corner of her Great Grandfather Alexander McKinney Sipes farm. After 7th grade she went on to finish Junior High and graduated from Great Bend High School Class of 1950.

Sue was a member of the Mt. Pleasant United Brethren Church. Sue Attended Oklahoma College for Women (now known as The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma) in Chickasha, OK and graduated in 1954 with a Bachelors of Science in Vocational Home Economics. In 1954 she began her career teaching in Greensburg Kansas. Sue then taught in Dodge City Kansas from 1956 to 1961.

During the summers starting in 1957 Sue attended graduate school at Colorado State University in Fort Collins Colorado, where she graduated in 1961 with a Masters of Education Degree. While teaching in Dodge City Kansas, Sue met her husband Bob Lawson. They were married on August 27, 1961 in the Mt. Pleasant Church of Stafford County Kansas.

They lived in Manhattan Kansas and Sue taught one year there. On February 28, 1964 she gave birth to her lovely daughter Rebecca Sue Lawson. By July of 1964 they had moved to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. On February 28, 1966 Sue and Bob welcomed their son, Robert Sipes Lawson.

In 1971 the family moved for a short time to Wichita Kansas. In 1972 the family moved to Idabel Oklahoma which became her home for over 40 years. Sue taught in the Haworth School System until she retired in June of 1994.

Sue was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Idabel Oklahoma and later was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Broken Bow Oklahoma. Sue was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Alpha Epsilon Chapter, Oklahoma Vocational Association, National Education Association, Oklahoma Education Association, Idabel Lioness,and McCurtain County Retired Educators. Sue volunteered as one of the “Pink Ladies” of McCurtain Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. Sue worked hard to help others and be involved with her family and the community .

Some of her interests were sewing for her family, cooking, reading, collecting thimbles, goblets and glassware. She loved watching Oklahoma Sooners football games and Oklahoma City Thunder basketball games.

Sue and her husband Bob loved to travel and experience the sites and cultures together. They made trips to Europe and spent time in London, Paris, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Greece and the Greek Isles. They took cruises to Hawaii, Mexico, Alaska, the Panama Canal, the Bahamas, and from Nova Scotia to Montreal Canada.

Bob served in the Navy from 1951 to 1954 and was on the Destroyer USS Hopewell DD-681. Sue and Bob attended biannual USS Hopewell reunions all over the United States.

In 2014 Sue and Bob moved to Avondale Estates Georgia to be closer to their beloved children. They became members of the Columbia Presbyterian Church. Sue was an active member of the Women of the Church in all the churches she attended.

Sue Ann Lawson was a beautiful soul that lived a great life, loved and was loved by her family and friends She will be dearly missed.

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Jennifer Lea Dohl - October 06, 1964 - May 17, 2022

Departed: 05/17/2022 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: Jennifer Lea Dohl, age 57, of Chicago, Illinois, died on May 17, 2022. She was born on October 6, 1964, in Lincoln, Kansas, the daughter of Herman and Arlene (Blase) Dohl.

She attended Bethlehem Lutheran Grade School in Sylvan Grove, KS, and graduated from Sylvan Unified High School in 1982. She attended Bethany College in Lindsborg, KS, and graduated with a BA degree in English Literature. In 1988, she went to work as a graduate assistant at Kansas State University, in Manhattan, KS, and studied Theatre Performance.

Jennifer met her future husband, Donald Olsen, while at K-State. They were married on February 2, 2002 (02-02-02) at Emmaus Lutheran Church in Bonner Springs, KS, during an epic ice storm. However, their marriage was always warm. They celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary on February 2, 2022 (02-02-22).

Jennifer worked for 27 years at a toy invention company in Chicago, IL. She was the office manager and served in many capacities. Jennifer enjoyed cooking and the entire family delighted in the wonderful parties she and Don hosted on their trips to Sylvan Grove. Events were always filled with good food, fellowship and a wide variety of their current favorite beers. They had a shared passion for motorcycle riding and went on numerous road trips. They put many miles on their Harley Davidson in the USA and also rode in Canada and Italy. They loved to travel and took several trips to Europe and a trip to Hawaii. Neither of them ever met a stranger and they made friends quickly in the pubs and bars they visited while traveling. Jennifer had a very generous spirit. Whether she was treating the nieces and nephews to the latest toys or the latest fashions, they always looked forward to her gifts. Jennifer especially enjoyed reading and always had boxes of books to lend or give to family and friends.

In July of 2021, Jennifer became ill with cancer. Despite a courageous fight, the cancer quickly overtook her body and life. After a brief period on hospice in Chicago, she traveled to Sylvan Grove for her remaining days. Don and Jennifer’s family thank Solomon Valley Hospice, Beloit, KS, for their compassionate care of Jennifer. Jennifer died in the family farmhouse surrounded by her loving husband, her family and closest friends.

Jennifer was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Arlene Dohl; infant sister, Erica Dohl; and older brother, Arthur Dohl; father-in-law, Fred D. Olsen; and Don’s half siblings, Mike Albright and Gay Cole.

Jennifer is survived by her husband, Donald Olsen, of Chicago, IL; mother-in-law, Betty Olsen, of Rehoboth Beach, DE; Gerald (Barbara) Howard of Rehoboth Beach, DE; and Doris Duvall of Millsboro, DE. Sisters, Marjorie (Alfred) Aufdemberge of Lincoln, KS; Mary Dohl of Wichita, KS; Lorelei Dohl of Sylvan Grove, KS; brother, Edward Dohl of Sylvan Grove, KS; sister-in-law, Justine Dohl, of Sylvan Grove, KS. Also, nieces and nephews: Christopher (Kristi) Dohl of Netawaka, KS; Jason (Anne) Dohl of Sylvan Grove, KS; Chesley Dohl of San Diego, CA; Lyle Dohl of Los Angeles, CA; Madelyn (Devin) Henderson of Shawnee, KS; Esther (Eric) Spooner of Kansas City, MO; Megan (Charlie) Huehl of Sylvan Grove, KS; Ian (Alicia) Dohl of Russell, KS; Cedric (Bethany) Schofield of Kansas City, MO; Sophia Schofield of Sylvan Grove, KS; Genevieve Schofield of Kansas City, MO; Broderick Schofield of Kansas City, MO; Adelyn, Brayden, Felicity and Caitlyn Dohl of Sylvan Grove, KS; and Michael (Shannon) Ulrich of Senoia, GA. Also, great nieces and nephews: Braden, Kylie and Brantley Dohl; Valden, Vance and Tevis Dohl; Claire, Charlotte, Cambry, Elsie, Eva, Emmaus and Haven Henderson; Elizabeth Spooner; Codie and Cael Huehl; Kamryn and Krew Dohl. And she leaves behind extended family and many dear friends, including Kelli Wondra and Mike Spicer.

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Arthur James Dohl - August 18, 1947 - April 13, 2022

Departed: 04/13/2022 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: SYLVAN GROVE - Arthur "Art" Dohl, age 74, of Sylvan Grove, KS, died Wednesday, April 13, 2022.

He was born on August 18, 1947, in Lucas, Kansas, the son of Herman and Arlene (Blasé) Dohl. He attended Bethlehem Lutheran School from grades 1- 8. He graduated, as a Jayhawk, Valedictorian of the class of 1965, from Sylvan Grove High School. He attended Bethany College in Lindsborg, KS, to play football and baseball, and graduated with a BS degree in English and a minor in Mathematics.

During his senior year of college, he met his future wife, Justine Nielsen. Upon graduation, he joined the Air Force and attended Officer Training School at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX, then proceeded to Williams AFB in Chandler, AZ, with his wife and first child, Christopher. After tearing his knee ligament, he became a missile launch officer at McConnell AFB in Wichita, KS. Soon two more children, Jason and Chesley, were born.

In 1972, as the Vietnam War wound down, the Air Force offered an early out. Art moved to Sylvan Grove with his wife and three children. For the next 50 years, he took to tradition and became a 4th-generation farmer on the family farm southeast of Sylvan Grove in Vesper Township. While farming in Sylvan Grove, Art and Justine, added three more children, Lyle, Madelyn and Esther, to their family. In June of 2021, Art and Justine celebrated 52 years of marriage.

A 15-year battle with cancer never diminished Art’s enthusiasm for life. He remained devoted to his family, his grandchildren, his love of music and singing, and his community and church. He enjoyed chess and card playing, reading, grilling for the community, laughing and conversing with family and friends. Arthur died in his home surrounded by his family.

His parents, Herman and Arlene Dohl, and infant sister, Erica, preceded him in death.

His surviving family includes his wife, Justine, and his six children: Christopher (Kristi) Dohl of Netawaka, KS; Jason (Anne) Dohl of Sylvan Grove, KS; Chesley Dohl of San Diego, CA; Lyle Dohl of Los Angeles, CA; Madelyn (Devin) Henderson of Shawnee, KS; and Esther (Eric) Spooner of Kansas City, MO; 14 grandchildren: Braden, Kylie, and Brantley Dohl; Valden, Vance, and Tevis Dohl; Claire, Charlotte, Cambry, Elsie, Eva, Emmaus and Haven Henderson; and Elizabeth Spooner; siblings, Marjorie (Alfred) Aufdemberge, Mary Dohl, Edward Dohl, Lorelei Dohl, and Jennifer Dohl (Don) Olsen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

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LouBelle Lorraine Meyer - December 07, 1924 - March 24, 2022

Departed: 03/24/2022 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: LouBelle L. Meyer, 97, of Sylvan Grove, continued her journey to the afterlife on March 24, 2022, while peacefully at home. She knew with certainty she would now meet her Creator along with those who have passed before her.

The ability to make close and intense connections with those that she knew was always in play. Loving others was as constant as the beating of her heart. She lavished those feelings freely, especially on her family. An unshakeable faith and undisputed loyalty to her beliefs were unwavering.

Forrest Meyer, her true soulmate married LouBelle and together they were always ready to go to any activity in the community or spend time with friends and family. The cast of characters in LouBelle's life has now been diminished by one, but she undoubtedly will be watching as we sip a cup of coffee or enjoy a dish of ice cream.

Left to rejoice in her life are sons Tim, Chris, and Kirk. Daughters Pam and Karen. Two grandsons, Ryan (Kaitlin) and Kevin (Katie), one granddaughter Kristen (Denzell), and five great-grandchildren as well as numerous family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Forrest, daughter Janet, her parents, and two brothers and two sisters.

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Larry Ray Meitler - April 29, 1947 - February 20, 2022

Departed: 02/20/2022 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: SYLVAN GROVE - Larry Ray Meitler, 74, passed away Sunday, February 20, 2022 in Sylvan Grove, Kansas. He was born April 29, 1947 in Gooding, Idaho to Raymond and Sadie Meitler, the third of ten children.

After graduating high school in 1965 from Sylvan Grove High School, he joined the US Air Force in 1967 stationed at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and was later honorably discharged in 1970 as a Sergeant. During his service in the Air Force, he married LaDonna Klaus and they have three children Sheila, Gary and Kevin. They then moved to Sylvan Grove, Kansas where the majority of his life was spent working for Lincoln County Highway Department as a Road Maintenance Operator and later County Road Supervisor for 43 years. He was also Town Marshall and served as Mayor of Sylvan Grove for 17 years. He was involved helping with community day leading the turtle and frog races and the pickle eating contest. He enjoyed baking his “famous” brownies, working auctions, demolition derbies, playing cards, attending school activities, and especially loved spending time with his family and friends. Larry never knew a stranger and would make friends with everyone he met.

Larry is survived by his children, Sheila Lovell (Ron) of Haysville; Gary (Chris) of Rose Hill; and Kevin of Sylvan Grove. Also survived by his four grandchildren Austin (Lea) Schroeder, Maci Meitler, McKenzie Lovell and Peyton Meitler. He is survived by his former wife, LaDonna, nine siblings, many cousins and many many past coworkers and friends.

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Glenn J. Tucker - November 08, 1947 - February 08, 2022

Departed: 02/08/2022 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: Doctor Glenn Jefferson Tucker entered this world on November 8th, 1947 in Chickasha, Oklahoma to be cherished by his Father, Herbert Dow Tucker and his Mother, Celeta Lucille Tucker. It is with great sadness that we announce that he left this life from his comfortable home in Denver, Colorado at the age of seventy-four, on February 8th, 2022. He is survived by his brother, Terry, his sister Deanna, and many nieces and nephews. He and his wife, Janice (Rahmeier) Tucker, who passed January 13, 2018 had no children but their nieces and nephews were thought of much as their own. Most of Glenn’s early life was spent in Ogallah, Kansas, where he attended the Ogallah Christian Church, Ogallah Grade School, and continued on to Trego Community High School in nearby Wakeeney, where he graduated. His education continued at Fort Hays State University, Hays, Kansas, but was interrupted when drafted by the United States Army. He served his country for two years in the military, including a year in Vietnam during that conflict. Not to be deterred, he resumed his educational pursuit at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas, where he subsequently earned his Doctorate in Environmental Science. He was retired from a long career with the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, a part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Throughout his professional life and into retirement Glenn was an avid diver and SCUBA instructor, photographer, and philanthropist. He had a passion for learning and his home was filled with books. He and his wife Jan were also enthusiastic travelers having explored all 7 continents.

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Joann Eller - June 16, 1936 - May 31, 2024

Departed: 05/31/2024 (Sylvan Grove)

Obituary Preview: On Friday May 31, 2024 Earth lost a beautiful soul and Heaven gained an Angel when Joann (Crawford) Eller went home to her Lord. She was born June 16, 1936 in Harlan, KS at home the daughter of Gerald and Avis Crawford. Joann grew up in Gaylord, KS and graduated from Gaylord High School. She married Jim Eller November 25, 1956 in Gaylord at the Nazerene Church, they moved to Hays, KS where Jim attended Fort Hays State University, who with Jo's help attained a BS in Education and later an MS in Counseling. They lived in Kirwin, KS and Long Island, KS before moving to Sylvan Grove, KS where they lived for over 50 years recently moving to Lucas, KS. Joann was a caregiver at the very core of her being, loving and caring for many children over several decades as a daycare provider and taking care of Jim in the last years of her life. Joann loved her Lord and working with children and combined that by being a long time teacher of Vacation Bible School. She joined the Sylvan Presbyterian Church in 1967 and worked in the Sylvan Library. Joann was always a loyal friend and loving wife, mom and grandma supporting anyone who came to her needing an ear to l‪isten and a shoulder to lean on. And, of course, a hug before leaving. They always left knowing someone loved them unconditionally and forgave as Jesus would. One of her favorite pasttimes was watching her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren participate in activities especially playing sports (even volleyball which made her very nervous.) She could be seen nervously walking the hallways and sidelines during close games and around the track cheering during races. She and Jim were a known by all the friends of their grandkids as Grandma Jo and Grandpa Jim because they were at so many of their activities everyone knew them.

Joann was a woman of deep faith drawing strength from her love of God and she is home and at peace in Heaven. She is survived by her husband of 67 years Jim Eller; three daughters, Sheree Poskey and husband Mitch of Lawrence, KS, Kristi Mettlen and husband Wes of Lucas, KS, and Heidi Gillespie of Chase, KS; ten grandchildren Shane Mettlen and wife Jennifer, Clay Mettlen and wife Stephanie, Christopher Poskey and wife Sara, Sara (Mettlen) Smith and husband Chris, Jordan Poskey and wife Jeni, CJ Mettlen and wife Lindsay, Jamie Gillespie, Chelsee Poskey, Sierra Gillespie, and Breahna (Gillespie) Crawford and husband Jordan; and 20 (soon to be 21) great grandchildren.

A viewing will be held at the mortuary in Sylvan Grove on Wednesday, June 5 from 4 to 8.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 6 at 2:00 pm at the Sylvan Grove Presbyterian Church with Sharon Ringler and Steve Boor presiding.

She will be laid to rest in the Sylvan Grove Cemetery.

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A Wide Range of Funeral Services

Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel offers a comprehensive range of funeral services designed to meet the diverse needs of the families they serve. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and graveside services, the experienced staff at Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel can help families plan a meaningful and memorable farewell. They also provide support and guidance throughout the planning process, ensuring that every detail is carefully considered and executed.

Cremation Services with Dignity

Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel understands that cremation is an increasingly popular choice for many families. That's why they offer a range of cremation services designed to honor the memory of loved ones with dignity and respect. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel provides families with options that meet their unique needs and preferences.

Personalized Funeral Arrangements

At Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel, every funeral arrangement is tailored to reflect the personality, interests, and accomplishments of the deceased. The team works closely with families to incorporate personal touches, such as favorite music, flowers, or photographs, into the funeral service. This helps to create a meaningful and memorable tribute that celebrates the life of the loved one.

Supporting Families Through Grief

Losing a loved one can be one of life's most difficult challenges. At Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel, they understand that grief is a journey that requires support and guidance. That's why they offer bereavement resources and counseling services to help families navigate their emotions and find a path forward. From grief support groups to individual counseling sessions, Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel is committed to supporting families through their darkest hours.

Pre-Planning: A Gift to Your Loved Ones

Pre-planning a funeral may seem like a daunting task, but it can be a thoughtful gesture that brings peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. By making arrangements in advance, you can ensure that your final wishes are respected and that your family is spared from having to make difficult decisions during a time of grief. Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel offers pre-planning services that allow individuals to plan their funeral arrangements in advance, giving them control over the details while also providing their loved ones with a sense of security and comfort.

A Commitment to Excellence

Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel is committed to excellence in everything they do. From the moment you walk through their doors, you'll experience a level of professionalism, compassion, and care that sets them apart from other funeral homes. Their team is dedicated to providing exceptional service, attention to detail, and unwavering support throughout the funeral planning process.

Contact Us

If you're looking for a funeral home that will treat your loved one with dignity and respect, look no further than Rentschler Family Mortuaries Sylvan Chapel. Located at 201 N. Maryland Avenue, Sylvan Grove, KS, 67481, they are always available to answer your questions, provide guidance, or simply offer a listening ear. Contact them today to learn more about their services and how they can support you during this difficult time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It often includes details about their life, achievements, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with friends, family, and community. They provide an opportunity to celebrate the person's life, share memories, and offer condolences to those grieving.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member or close friend writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or mortuary may assist with writing the obituary or provide a template for the family to use.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A standard obituary usually includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), and surviving family members. It may also include hobbies, achievements, and other personal details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words. Longer obituaries may be used for more prominent individuals or those with extensive accomplishments.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can help personalize the tribute and make it more engaging for readers.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only the basic facts such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

Contact the newspaper or online platform directly to learn their submission guidelines and deadlines. Some may accept submissions online or via email, while others may require a phone call or in-person visit.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost varies depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers and online sites offer free or low-cost options, while others may charge by the word or line. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary as a way to control how they want to be remembered. This can also help alleviate the burden on loved ones during a difficult time.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you prefer not to share the obituary publicly, you can opt for a private or limited circulation. This might be done through a private funeral home website or by sharing the obituary only with close friends and family.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include information about memorial donations in lieu of flowers. This allows friends and family to make a donation in the deceased person's name instead of sending flowers.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe varies depending on the publication or platform. Online obituaries may be published immediately, while print newspapers may have a longer delay due to printing schedules.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, changes cannot be made once an obituary has been published. However, some online platforms may allow corrections or updates within a certain timeframe.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

You can seek assistance from a funeral home, mortuary, or professional writer who specializes in obituaries. They can guide you through the process and help craft a meaningful tribute.

Can I include humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including personal stories and humorous moments can help capture the personality and spirit of the deceased person.

Are there any specific formatting requirements for an obituary?

The format may vary depending on the publication or platform. Typically, it's best to use a clear and concise writing style with short paragraphs and proper grammar.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, quotes or lyrics that resonate with the deceased person's life or personality can add depth and meaning to the obituary.

What if I want to write an obituary for someone who was cremated?

The process is similar to writing an obituary for someone who had a traditional burial. Be sure to include any relevant details about memorial services or scattering ceremonies.

Can I include information about memorial services in an obituary?

Yes, it's common to include details about memorial services, visitations, or funerals in the obituary. This helps inform friends and family about opportunities to pay their respects.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive details about the deceased person's life or circumstances surrounding their death, it's essential to approach these topics with tact and respect. Consider consulting with family members or close friends before publishing sensitive information.

Can I write an obituary for someone who died under unusual circumstances?

In cases where the death was unexpected or involved unusual circumstances (e.g., accident, crime), it's crucial to approach the writing process with sensitivity and compassion. Focus on celebrating the person's life rather than dwelling on the circumstances of their passing.

What if I'm struggling emotionally while writing an obituary?

This is a normal response when dealing with grief. Take your time, seek support from loved ones if needed, and remember that writing an obituary is a meaningful way to honor your loved one's memory.