Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home Obituaries

About Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, located at 1104 20th Street, PO Box 566, Belleville, KS, 66935, has been a pillar of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a long history of serving the local area, the funeral home has built a reputation for its commitment to excellence and dedication to helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A History of Service

The story of Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home began many years ago, when the founders recognized the need for a funeral home that could provide personalized and caring services to the people of Belleville and surrounding areas. Over the years, the funeral home has grown and evolved, but its core values have remained the same - to provide exceptional service, compassion, and support to those who are grieving.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Robert G. Carlson - February 27, 1948 - August 23, 2022

Departed: 08/23/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Robert Carlson, 74, passed away August 23rd, at his home near Courtland.

Memorial Services will be Friday, September 2nd, at 4:00 pm, at the United Methodist Church in Courtland.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 1st, from 9am - 7pm, with family greeting friends from 5pm - 7pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home.

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John W. Woodruff - January 24, 1932 - August 11, 2022

Departed: 08/11/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: John William Woodruff was born on January 24, 1932, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of John William and Eunice Mae (Tucker) Woodruff. He passed away at his home in Belleville on August 11, 2022, at the age of 90 years, 6 months and 18 days.

John graduated from El Dorado (Missouri) High School in 1950, and joined the Army 1952. He was honorably discharged in 1954, and relocated to Belleville, Kansas, where he worked for the City of Belleville in the power plant, where he retired as the plant superintendent.

John was united in marriage to Betty Francis, and to this union one daughter was born, Betty Lynn. John was later remarried to Dorothy Jeanette Carlton on June 17, 1982.

John is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Sena Lou Watkins and her husband Raymond, daughter Betty Lynn Rott. He is survived by his grandchildren, Monica Meyerhoff (Mark), Sarah Jones (Brian), Elizabeth Spellman (Scot), Andrea Jurgensmeyer (Bryan), son-in-law Robert Rott, other relatives and friends.

Memorial Services will be Saturday, August 27, 2022, at 11:00 am, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, with Pastor Craig Roberts officiating. Visitation with family greeting friends will be one hour prior to the services, at the funeral home.

Friends may sign John’s book on Friday, August 26, from 9am – 5pm, at the funeral home.

A private, family inurnment will occur at a later date, at the Kansas Veteran’s Cemetery, Fort Riley, Kansas.

Memorials are requested to the Golden Bell Haven, and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Woodruff family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Monty W. Rhine - November 12, 1965 - August 10, 2022

Departed: 08/10/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: This is a courtesy posting for the Rhine family.

Monty Wayne Rhine, 56 , of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday (August 10, 2022) at his home in Wamego.

Born November 12, 1965 in St. Joseph, Missouri,  Monty was the son of John and Dorothy LeRew Rhine.  He married Angie Meritt on May 20, 1989 in Cuba, Kansas.  She survives.

Monty was a graduate of Hillcrest High School in Cuba and a 1989 graduate of Kansas State University with a Bachelors Degree in Ag Economics.  He was currently the co-owner of J. M. Staffing Agency in Topeka.  Monty graduated from the Colorado School of Banking and previously worked in banking in Arizona, Wyoming and Kansas.  He was also a founder and co-owner of Czechland Outfitters in Cuba with his brother, Heath and friends, Cass Reynolds and Jay T. Reynolds.

Monty was a member of Wamego Country Club where he was an avid golfer.  He enjoyed hunting, diving and his passion for corvettes but his greatest joy was the time he spent with his family and his dogs, Bentley and Louie.

Survivors include his wife, Angie; two children, Sarah Talkington (Tim) of Belleville, KS and Chandler Rhine (Maria) of Topeka, KS; six grandchildren, Kaleb Talkington, Lexus Talkington, Brooklyn Talkington, Ernesto Rhine, Brian Rhine and Elianna Rhine; his mother, Dorothy Rhine of Cuba, KS; a brother, Heath Rhine (Lori) of Belleville, KS; an Aunt, Sheril Zenger (Richard) of Belleville, KS; his mother in law, Carol Pfeifer of Spencer, NE; a sister in law, Becky Meritt of Spencer, NE; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Monty was preceded in death by his father; his father in law, Dale Meritt and his step father in law, George Pfeifer.

Funeral services will be held Saturday evening at 6:00 in the Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home in Wamego with Pastor Jol Klein officiating.

Visitation will be Saturday evening from 5:30 until the time of services at the funeral home in Wamego.

Graveside services will be Monday morning at 11:00 in the Hawks Cemetery in Cuba, Kansas with Pastor Randy Paugh officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Wamego Country Club and left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547. Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home has arrangements, https://www.campanellastewart.com

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Dean Allen - December 19, 1926 - August 07, 2022

Departed: 08/07/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Our Dad, known as “Dean” or “Grandpa Dean, passed peacefully in his sleep at the Country Place Senior Living facility on August 7, 2022.   Dean was born to Bert Allen and Edna (Wilson) Allen on December 19, 1926 on the farm near Haddam, Ks.

Dean lived his whole life in or around Haddam.  He attended and graduated from Haddam High School in 1944.

He was in the Merchant Marines during WWII and traveled the world.

After his time in the Merchant Marines, Dean taught school at the Rock School in Coleman Township, Washington County Kansas.  He then went on to teach at the Clara School.  One of Deans sons even married a daughter of one of his students from Clara School. Dean was drafted into the army during the Korean War and once again traveled the world. While overseas, Dean ran into two familiar faces from home, Don Skipton and Wayne Corbett.  They all lived within ¼ mile of one another.  Talk about a small world!

On January 11, 1953, Dean married Evelyn Gale Kennedy.  They were married at the United Methodist Church in Munden, Kansas and made their home south of Haddam where Dean had grown up and lived the majority of his life.  Together, Dean and Evelyn had four children.  Doug, Robert, (better known as Bob), Tammy, (the pretty one)!  And Jack….you would think that this one gave Dean his gray hair, but no….Dean had gray hair long before.

Dean farmed the ground his family had farmed and this grew into a love for gardening in later years.  After some time, Dean and Evelyn moved closer into Haddam, where he farmed and owned and operated the local locker plant.  He ran this until it burned.  That was when he became the proprietor of the Uptown Mart for several years.

In or around 1965, Dean started to carry mail on the rural route.  You could always see him driving the route, and as they say…..Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail shall keep the postmen from their appointed rounds.  He also had a penchant for a good cigar during these years, and you could see him chewing on a cigar stub. He ran his routes for 30 plus years until he retired.

Dean and Evelyn enjoyed going dancing, playing cards with friends, and spending time with family.  His passion for working the ground found him in the garden.  He would plant such a big garden; he could have opened a summer farmers market himself.  Dean liked going to auctions and always came home with his “great finds”.  His grandkids and great grandkids love seeing all the treasures that Grandpa Dean has. Dean enjoyed building and refinishing things.  His workshop was something to behold.  He had every and any tool needed for whatever the situation. It was like organized chaos, but he knew where everything was and everything had its place.   Another passion would have to be fishing.  He spent many summers at the ponds and traveling with his kids to fish in the streams of Colorado. He also loved to spend Father’s Day weekends camping with his kids and grandkids at Lovewell Lake.  He spent many nights on the front row of the bleachers watching his sons, daughter, and grandsons play football and basketball.  That was a lot of bleacher time, but he enjoyed every minute he was able to share his time with them.

Preceding Dean in death were his wife Evelyn, his daughter Tammy (Allen) Zenger, his brother and sister, Donald (Bud) Allen and wife Eunice, and Mildred Schuessler and husband Tom.  His Sister’s-in-law, Garnett (Kennedy) Rhine and husband, Kenneth Rhine, Kay (Kennedy) Burleson and husband Hugh Burleson, Anna Mae (Kennedy) Cox and husband Arlie Cox, and Becky (Kennedy) Blecha and husband Robert (Bob) Blecha.

Memories of Dean will be cherished by his family:  sons Doug and wife Jana (Jones) Allen of Marysville; Bob and his wife Lynn (Stanton) Allen of Haddam; and Jack and his wife Judy (Wurtz) Allen of Haddam.  Son-in-law Neil Zenger, Haddam.  His Grandchildren, Heath and wife Stacey Allen, Haddam; Brooke (Allen) Yarrow,  Belleville; Dusty and wife Lexia Zenger, Lincoln, NE.; Tyler Zenger,  Manhattan; Christopher and wife Emily Allen, Marysville; Mitchell Allen, Kansas City; Tanner and wife Abbey Allen,  Atchison; Trevor and wife Gabryelle Allen,  Brandon, SD; and Tucker Allen, Haddam.  Dean also has 10 great grandchildren, Tristan, Traven and Triniti Allen; Brecklyn Yarrow; Jack, Paisley and Cooper Allen; Kolt (KJ) Zenger; Locke Allen; and Etta Zenger; and his sister-in-law Gertrude (Kennedy) Ryser, along with many other family members and friends.

Truly a good man with a good heart.

Graveside funeral services will be Wednesday, August 17th, 2022, at 1:00 pm, at the Haddam City Cemetery.

Visitation will be Tuesday, August 16th, from 9am – 8pm, with the family greeting friends from 6pm – 8pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville.

Memorials are requested to the American Cancer Society, and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Allen family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Dean L. Seifert - June 23, 1925 - August 06, 2022

Departed: 08/06/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Dean Leon Seifert was born on June 23, 1925, near Clifton, to Leon Frank & Pearl C. (Allen) Seifert, and passed away on August 6, 2022, at Park Villa in Clyde, at the age of 97 years, 1 month, and 14 days.

Dean was one of two boys born to Leon and Pearl, and he grew up on the family farm, attending school in Agenda. Dean graduated from Agenda High school in 1942, and joined his Dad in his farming operation.

A farmer and stockman his entire life, Dean enjoyed rural living, working with his John Deere tractors, and tending to his cattle. He was a very active and involved in many organizations, including three terms on the Greenleaf/Linn Elevator COOP board, two terms on the Washington County Soil Conservation Board with two years as President of the Board, a member of the Brantford Community Center Board, President of the District #16 Cemetery Board, and the Mayor of Brantford.

A steward of the land, Dean was awarded the 1971 soil conservation award, and the 1990 Goodyear NCRS Conservation Award. Dean was always on the go and stayed active with many hobbies. He made over 40 quilts by hand, donating them to the Lutheran World Relief Mission, the Brantford Community Center Raffle and the Cuba Rock-A-Thon. He enjoyed gardening, and shared his garden produce and fruits with his neighbors and pie makers. He also enjoyed fishing, playing bingo and pitch, and was active for over 25 years on bowling teams in Belleville, along with being a team player in the Washington League.

Dean enjoyed traveling, and took bus trips to Estes Park in Colorado, touring the north east states during the fall, Washington DC, Kentucky, various casinos, and even taking a trip to Hawaii.

Dean is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Ardyce in 1991, his second wife Arlene in 2014, brother Earl Seifert and his wife Joyce.

He is survived by his nephew Steve Seifert and his wife Angie, niece Dona Bainbridge and her husband Doug, and nephew Roger Gunter and his wife Lorna Dee. Dean is also survived by his step daughter-in-law Teresa Keeler and step son-in-law Charles Jones, along with step grandchildren, Jeffrey Keeler (Lori), Brandon Keeler (Jona), Michael Keeler (Regina), Kelly Bandt, Paige Briggs (Jeff), Tina Carstensen (Daniel). He is also survived by other family and relatives, neighbors and friends.

Funeral Services will be Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., at Christ Lutheran Church in Davenport, Nebraska, where the family will greet friends from 8:30 am until service time. Graveside Services will follow at 2:00 pm, at Rusco Cemetery, rural Brantford.

Visitation will be Tuesday, August 9, from 1pm – 5pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home. The family will not be present.

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Donald L. Minnig - November 21, 1938 - August 04, 2022

Departed: 08/04/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Donald Lee Minnig was born on November 21, 1938, in Ainsworth, Nebraska, the son of George and Neva (Zahl) Minnig. Don attended and graduated from Stuart Public High School, class of 1957. Following high school, Don attended Hastings College, where he obtained his teaching degree. Don was always proud of the fact that Tom Osborne was one of the players to come recruit Don to play football for Hastings College, and ultimately became one of Don’s teammates.

After graduating from Hastings College, Don signed a contract to teach math at Chester Public Schools. He taught math, business, and was the football and basketball coach, along with junior class sponsor. Don enjoyed helping the juniors decorate for prom, and helped them with many elaborate themes. Don spent his entire 38 year teaching career at Chester, before retiring.

During the summers, Don worked in construction and painting, where he formed life long bonds with the crews he worked with. Many of the young men Don worked with looked up to him as a mentor. He was a member of the Chester United Methodist Church, where he was involved in many different leadership positions.

Don was united in marriage to Glenda Rae Porter on August 13, 1966, at the Chester United Methodist Church, and to this union two daughters were born.

After he retired from teaching, Don enjoyed gardening, fishing and hunting. Don and Glenda were always on the go, and attended as many of their children, and later grandson’s events, as they could.

Don passed away on August 4, 2022, at the age of 83 years, 8 months, and 14 days, in Lincoln, Nebraska.

He is preceded in death by his wife Glenda, his parents George and Neva, and his sister, Mary Tonkin.

He will forever be remembered by his daughters, Janna Meyer (Shawn) and Leesa Minnig of Lincoln, grandsons Paxton Minnig (fiancé Brooklyn), Maddox Meyer and Brixon Meyer. Don is also survived by special family friend Chad Novotny, who was like a son to Don and Glenda.

Funeral Services will be Tuesday, August 9th, 2022, at 11:00 am, at the United Methodist Church in Chester. Burial will follow at the Chester City Cemetery.

Visitation will be Monday, August 8th, from 1pm – 8pm, with family greeting friends from 6pm – 8pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville.

Memorials are requested to the church, or the Don Minnig Memorial, to be designated at a later date, and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Minnig family with these arrangements, www. tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Glen E. Kirk - June 14, 1936 - July 28, 2022

Departed: 07/28/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Glen Ernest Kirk died peacefully after a day of being surrounded by close family, on July 28, 2022, in Belleville, KS, due to complications of a stroke. Glen was 86 years old.

Glen Ernest Kirk, the eldest child of Ernest and Kathryn (Thompson) Kirk was born on a farm on the northeast side of Scandia, KS June 14, 1936. He was one of two children, his brother is Alan D. Kirk of Scandia, KS.

On August 26, 1956, Glen was united in marriage to Loretta Helen Freed. To this union four children were born, Lynn Dale, Kim Sue, Lisa Jean, and Brett Scott (deceased). After marriage, they resided in Manhattan, KS while Glen finished college at KSU. They then moved to McCook, Nebraska, where Glen worked for the Federal Bureau of Reclamation for 11 years. During his years in McCook, he was also an architect drawing up plans for many homes and other structures. Glen and his family spent a year in Seattle, Washington in 1968-69 where Glen attended the University of Washington Seattle, School of Public Affairs. Then it was back to McCook until 1973, when they moved to Topeka, KS where he continued to work for the Federal Bureau of Reclamation. Glen’s first wife, Loretta, passed away in 1976 after a bout with cancer. Glen remarried in 1977 to Sharon Elaine (Freed) McCollum. They resided in Topeka, KS until 2005. In 2005, Glen and Sharon moved back “home” to Scandia, KS.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Kathryn Kirk, his first wife, Loretta H. Kirk, May 12, 1976, and his son, Brett S. Kirk July 3, 2017. Glen is survived by his second wife, Sharon E. Kirk - Scandia, one son, Lynn D. Kirk –

Topeka, KS, Two daughters, Kim S. Kirk – Scandia, KS, Lisa J. Powers (Chris) – Meriden, KS, and a stepson, Shannon D. McCollum (Laurie) – Topeka, KS, his younger brother Alan D. Kirk (Erna Reye) – Scandia, KS, Six grandchildren, Kyle A. Powers (Mallory) – Manhattan, KS, Brady K. Billings (Rachel) – Topeka, KS, Kysa M. Farrant (Jake) – Meriden, KS, Scott R. Kirk – Manhattan, KS, Shawna R. Kirk – Manhattan, KS, and Shane A. McCollum – Topeka, KS. and five great grandchildren, Millie, Maxton & Beau Farrant, and Kasold & Huxley Powers.

Glen received his education in the Scandia schools, graduating with the class of 1953. By chance, Glen ended up going to Fairbury Junior college and from there went to Kansas State University where he received a degree in Civil Engineering in 1959. In 1967 Glen became a member of the Professional Engineers and Architects of Nebraska a member state of National Society of Professional Engineers.

Glen and family spent the 1968-69 school year in Bothell, Washington after being selected in a nationwide competition to become a Fellow for National Institute of Public Affairs. Thus, Glen completed a year of graduate study at the University of Washington. In 1975 Glen passed the State Board Exam and became a Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Kansas. He retired from his federal service in 1984 after 27 years of service. He then went to work for the State of Kansas Water Office for 18 years, retiring in 2002.

Glen was a member of the United Methodist Church in McCook, as well as Scandia, KS. He was a member of the Scandia Lions Club. Glen was active for many years in the promotion of Scouting. His Pinewood derby cars were the cars to beat, although they seldom were. He served as the Chairman of the McCook City Planning Commission from 1970-73. He was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers Irrigation and Drainage Division.

Glen received his Land Surveyor, License in 1988. In 2001 Glen received a diploma from the American Society of Civil Engineers for achieving the status of Life Member. Also, in 2001 he received the Kansas City District Heartland Award in recognition for his 18 years of partnering with the state of Kansas, the Corp of engineers, and the nation to formulate and implement projects and policies for water resources development in Kansas.

Glen was a busy man, and his interests were many. As such he was an excellent conversationalist. He was very intelligent, logical, and practical and could talk about anything. Glen always had a smile on his face, a few words of wisdom and great advice. He was a lifelong learner and was always interested in what others were up to. If you had a project, he wanted to know what it was and a bit about it.

Farming was in his blood; his parents and grandparents were farmers and he married two different farm girls. Most days found Glen wearing a pair of overalls. He had a green thumb, and a knack for gardening inside and out. He loved trying new things. In his earlier years Glen loved to sail and he owned a small sailboat. Camping was also a favorite activity. Tent camping in his younger days and then upgrading to a camping trailer, which he hauled across the country. Traveling was high on his list. Glen loved to travel the blue highways and traveled to all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Ireland, and Italy. Half the fun of his trips was in the planning and mapping out of the routes and the stops to be made along the way. He loved spending time with his family, and they were often included in his many excursions across the country. When his own children became too old for the trips, the grandchildren got in on the action. As an avid reader, he would snuggle up and read with the kids, grandkids and even the great grandchildren. He instilled the love of reading in all of us. Glen enjoyed working with wood and usually had a project going around the house.

As Mae West said, “You only Live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” Glen did it right. He will be dearly missed by many relatives and friends.

Visitation will be Friday, August 12, 2022, from 9:00 am – 7:00 pm, with family greeting friends from 5pm – 7pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville, Kansas.

Memorial Services will be Saturday, August 13, at 3:00 pm, at the United Methodist Church in Scandia, Kansas. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery, Scandia.

Memorials are requested to the United Methodist Church of Scandia, to assist Pike Valley students with their school supply expenses, and may be sent in care of Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, PO Box 566, Belleville, Kansas, 66935. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Kirk family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Lonnie G. Boman - June 30, 1947 - July 27, 2022

Departed: 07/27/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Lonnie Gene Boman, oldest son of Godfrey ‘Guff’ J. and Evelyn R. (Stromberg) Boman, was born on June 30, 1947 and passed from this life on July 27th, 2022 at the age of 75 years and 27 days.

Lonnie spent his early years growing up in Scandia, KS, with his parents and younger brother. Lonnie attended Scandia schools and graduated from Scandia High School in 1965, in the first class to graduate from the new high school building. After high school, he attended Beloit Vo-Tech, studying auto mechanics, and then worked for Frye Motors.

In June of 1967, Lonnie was drafted into the United States Army. He received Basic Training at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, and Advanced Infantry Training in Fort Polk, LA, before being sent to Vietnam to serve for one year. When he returned to the states, he served the remainder of his enlistment at Fort Knox, KY. While serving our country, Lonnie was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Expert Rifle Marksman Badge and the Bronze Star Medal.

After returning home, Lonnie worked as a mechanic, shop foreman and car salesman for Kling Motor Company, then as a carman for the Rock Island Railroad until it went out of business. He then went to work for the City of Belleville as a part-time police officer on weekend shifts. In 1980, Lonnie became a full-time officer and so began a career spanning nearly 40 years in law enforcement. Lonnie was a patrolman for years before being promoted to Assistant Chief. In June 2009, Lonnie retired from the Police Department after 29 years. After sitting out his mandatory 60 days, he went back to work for the Police Department helping cover shifts as needed. He also worked part-time for the Republic County Sheriff’s Department, mostly doing prisoner transports. Lonnie worked almost 10 more years in these part-time duties.

Lonnie often told people he was born with a fishing pole in one hand and a gun in the other. His love of the outdoors, hunting and fishing brought him great joy through the years. He was an accomplished shot with guns and in archery. He was a member of the Salt Creek Archers and won many trophies due to his talent with a bow, as well as shooting blue rocks and handguns.

Fishing was Lonnie’s other outdoor passion. Whether it was spending time at Pete’s Pit and farm ponds or fishing tournaments, Lonnie loved being on the water with a pole (or ten) with him. He was a member of several fishing clubs through the years. Tournament fishing took him to many lakes in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. These tournaments brought him lifelong friends.

Lonnie’s prowess with a gun and fishing pole not only resulted in numerous awards, but also provided a freezer full of meats that he loved to cook and share with friends. Lonnie was able to go to Canada fishing a number of years with a group of men from the Republic County area and a fishing trip to Alaska with his brother and uncle, George Stromberg, was a highlight. In recent years, going to Canada again several times, the last being with Lonnie’s youngest son, son-in-law and his father, were special times for him. Lonnie was in the first class of men to become Kansas Hunter Education Instructors and gave yearly classes for more than 20 years until classes moved online. He taught many second-generation hunters in his later years.

On July 9, 1988, Lonnie was united in marriage to the love of his life, Diane Blackburn. Diane’s two children, Chad and Mindy Hallack, provided a ready-made family which was completed with the birth of their own son, Will. Lonnie and Diane were blessed to celebrate 34 years of marriage this summer. During their married years, Lonnie gave his life to Christ and became a member of the Belleville Wesleyan Church.

Lonnie was preceded in death by his parents, Godfrey and Evelyn Boman of Scandia, and father-in-law John Blackburn of Courtland.

Lonnie will be forever loved and remembered by his wife, Diane, of the home; son Chad Hallack of Belleville, KS, daughter Mindy Oppriecht and husband Ethan of Derby, KS, and Will Boman and wife Alyssa of Belleville, KS. Lonnie loved seeing his grandchildren grow and enjoyed watching them participate in many events. Those grandchildren are Noah and Emmalee Oppriecht of Derby, KS, Cailyn Hallack of Beloit, KS and Aria Boman of Belleville, KS. Lonnie claimed many other children as “his” kids and grandkids, and he loved them fiercely. Lonnie is also survived by his brother Larry Boman and wife Jan of Scandia, KS, mother-in-law Judy Blackburn of Courtland, sisters-in-law Nancy Blackburn and husband John Cox and Joni Blackburn all of Columbus, NE, Jana and husband Troy Calkins, nephew Evan Calkins and niece Claire Calkins all of Olathe, KS, as well as many cousins, family and friends.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at the Belleville Wesleyan Church on Monday, August 1st, 2022, at 2:00 p.m., with Pastor Mark McGregor, Pastor Roy Roper and Pastor Kermit Oppriecht officiating. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Riverview Cemetery in Scandia.

Visitation will be Sunday, July 31st, from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm, with family greeting friends from 6pm – 8pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville.

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Leo "Bo" Hubert - August 31, 1939 - July 26, 2022

Departed: 07/26/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Leo “Bo” Hubert, 82, passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2022, in his home with his family in Belleville, Kansas.  He was born on August 31, 1939, in Concordia, Kansas, to Leo & Virginia (Bessette) Hubert.

Bo graduated from Notre Dame High School, Concordia, Kansas, in 1957.  He married Susan Peterson on October 3, 1964, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Clyde, Kansas.  Bo began work after high school with his father at Hubert Trucking, Concordia, Kansas, until drafted into the army.  When he was honorably discharged, he went to work for Cloud Ceramics.  From there, he worked at the Boogaarts Warehouse for 30 years until it closed, and then drove a semi-truck delivering groceries for an additional 7 years.  Bo retired as a bus driver for USD 333 after 14 years of service.

Bo was a member of the St. Edward’s Catholic Church, Belleville, Kansas, and enjoyed altar serving at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Concordia, Kansas, for almost 75 years.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was known for trapping and skinning in his younger years.  He never truly had a hobby, but he spent his time working either laying bricks with his brother-in-law, shingling roofs, cleaning and laying carpet, making improvements to St. Concordia Cemetery, and working in any way to help his family and friends.  His greatest memories came from playing cards and snooker, watching his kids and grandkids play sports, sing, act, dance, and shine, and spending time with his loved ones.

Bo is survived by his wife, Susan, Belleville, Kansas; children, Mark (Cathy) Hubert, Ballwin, MO; Luke (Michelle) Hubert, Belleville, KS; Anne (Jared) Collette, Belleville, KS; six grandchildren, Blaine Hubert, Columbia, MO; Clayton Hubert, Andrew & Emma Hubert, and Matthew & Leo Collette, Belleville, KS; and many other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo & Virginia Hubert; brother, Robert Paul Hubert; sisters, Dorothy Charbonneau & Vivian Crump; and son, John Hubert.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, July 30, 2022, at St. Edward’s Catholic Church, Belleville, Kansas with Fr. Michael Peterson and Fr. Henry Baxa officiating.  Burial will follow in the St. Concordia Catholic Cemetery, Concordia, Kansas.

Visitation will be on, Friday, July 29, 2022, from 9 am – 8 pm with a Rosary at 6 pm and family greeting friends after the Rosary all at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, Belleville.

The family suggests memorials to Connor’s Cuddles, and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Hubert family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Virginia E. Petersen - June 12, 1920 - July 20, 2022

Departed: 07/20/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Virginia Eleanor McGowan was born on July 12, 1920, to Charles E. McGowan and Mary Elizabeth (Singer) McGowan in their home, three miles south of Hardy, Nebraska. She passed away on July 20, 2022, in Belleville, at the age of 102.

Virginia attended country school through 8th grade, and graduated from Hardy High School in 1937.  After graduation, Virginia earned her teaching certificate and taught in rural country schools for a number of years before marrying Alvin H. Petersen on May 25, 1943 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Hardy, Nebraska, which they regularly attended, and sang in the choir, most of their married life.

To this union, two children were born; Rodney in 1944 and Carol in 1948.  Virginia and Alvin began married life on a farm north of Hardy.  They moved to the Republic, Kansas area in the spring of 1946 where they farmed until moving into Republic in 1958.  Virginia and Alvin began working at the Republic Grain Elevator.  Virginia was a long time correspondent for the Belleville Telescope for the Republic news. She was an avid reader and served on the Ray Hobson Memorial Library for many years.  In later years, Virginia worked as a waitress at the Foote’s Café in Chester, Nebraska.

Her husband, Alvin, passed away in 1988, shortly after their 45th wedding anniversary. Virginia moved to Belleville in 2014 to be closer to her daughter and family. Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Wanda (Glenn) Hutt, Dorothy (Kenny) Erkenbrack, Jean (Leo) Snavely; and brother Dean (Viola) McGowan.

She is survived by her son, Rod (Joyce) Petersen of Shawnee, Kansas; and daughter, Carol (James) Levendofsky of Belleville, Kansas; her four grandchildren, Christie (Sunny) Kairos, Scott (Stacie) Levendofsky, Dane (Jill) Petersen, Kay (Daryl) Rieke, and eleven great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be Monday, July 25th, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., at the American Lutheran Church in Belleville, with Mr. Al Urich officiating. Burial will follow at Lake Cemetery, rural Republic.

Visitation will be Sunday, July 24th, from 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm, with family greeting friends from 4pm – 6pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Petersen family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Marjorie R. Konovalske - April 14, 1930 - June 20, 2022

Departed: 06/20/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Marjorie “Marj” Konovalske of Lenexa, Kansas, 92, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, passing away on June 20,2022, at Hillside Village of Desoto, Kansas.

She was born in Decatur County, Kansas on April 14, 1930 and was the daughter of Claude and Rista (Miller) Brainard.

She graduated from Cosmetology College in Hays, Kansas, and went on to work part time as a cosmetologist in those early years. She then enjoyed a lifetime of doing hair for family and friends, and sharing her smile with everyone.

Marjorie married Don Konovalske on August 24th, 1949, and enjoyed 50 years of marriage. They had 3 children, Michael of Linwood, Kansas, David of Shawnee, Kansas, and Jill of Lenexa, Kansas.

Marjorie is survived by her three children, Michael (Sandy), David (Katy), and Jill (Alan) Priest, she deeply loved her family, and cherished her 6 beautiful grand-children and 6 precious great grand-children. Marj is also survived by her brother in law, Eldred Wurm, and sister in law, Marilyn Brainard.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Claude and Rista Brainard; her brothers and sisters, Kenny (Norma) Brainard, Dorothy (Bill) Brown, Clarice Wurm, Larry Brainard, and David (Hope, Irene) Brainard.

Marj had a strong saving faith in Jesus Christ and walked with the Lord daily. She had a servant’s heart in everything she did. She had a loving smile that touched everyone she met, a heart of gold, and a motherly love with her family and friends. Throughout the years she had a deep love and commitment to her children, grand- children, and great grand-children.

She loved spending summers on the family farm, spending time with her brother Dave and sister Clarice at their neighboring farms. She enjoyed reading, gardening, baking and hiking to the frog pond with the little ones. She loved taking trips to the surrounding small towns for fun adventures. There were always stops at local parks and Dairy Queen for cold treats.

She was involved with Community Covenant Church in Lenexa, Kansas, for decades. She attended Women’s Bible studies and fun excursions with Jill and the lady’s group from church. She also helped with many fund raisers for the youth group.

A Service of Remembrance and Celebration of Life will be on Monday, June 27, 2022, at 2:00 PM at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville, Kansas.

Visitation with family greeting friends will be one hour prior to the service, at the funeral home. A graveside service will be held immediately following the Celebration of Life at St Josephat Catholic Cemetery, rural Belleville, where she will be laid to rest next to her loving husband.

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Norma J. Aspegren - March 16, 1928 - June 16, 2022

Departed: 06/16/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Norma Jean Greenslade was born on March 16, 1928, to John Duaine Greenslade and Alice Lora (Cardwell) Greenslade in their family home in Scandia. She was baptized and confirmed in the Amana Lutheran Church of Scandia. Norma graduated from Scandia High School with the Class of 1946.

Norma was united in marriage to Delbert C. Aspegren on April 20, 1947 at the First United Methodist Church of Topeka and to this union four children were born: Phyllis, Ron, Jane Ann, and Carrie. Family was always her first priority. Her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren meant the world to her. Norma went to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 16, 2022. She was 94 years of age.

In her younger years, Norma was an active member of the Order of the Eastern Star, the General Federated Women’s Clubs, Sherdahl Boosters 4H, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Girl and Boy Scouts, holding many leadership rolls. Delbert and Norma raised their children in the church and were very active in all church activities including Luther League, Bible School, Sunday School, and WELCA. They were also associate members of the Love of Christ Lutheran Church, Wesleco, TX. Norma helped establish and open the Svensk Butik in Scandia and loved handmade crafts. Norma server as a cook for many years at the Scandia High School, USD #426.

Delbert and Norma were avid campers and belonged to the Pawnee Palefaces Camping Club for many years. In the 70’s, they began taking their camper to Texas and eventually purchased a winter home at Countryside RV and Mobile Home Park, in Donna, TX, making life-long friends from all over the US and Canada. Norma took an active role in assisting her husband Delbert in the operation of their office, the Clarence L. Gile Insurance Agency for 33 years. In her later years, she greatly enjoyed writing a column for the Scandia and Courtland Journal.

Norma was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband Delbert, son-in-law Jim Jensik, and son-in-law Stanley Grueber.

She will forever be remembered by her children Phyllis Jensik of Belleville, KS, Ronald Aspegren and wife Connie of Courtland, KS, Jane Ann Carlgren and husband Ed of Scandia, KS, and Carrie Stehno and husband Mark of Nixa, MO; her grandchildren Wade Jensik and wife Angie, Belleville, KS, Quinn Rakaskas and husband Chris, Thompson Station, TN, Sarah Sadler and husband Tripper, Smith Center, KS, Ryan Carlgren and wife Lori, Courtland, KS, Lisa Manley and husband Colby, Eudora, KS, Bret Carlgren and wife Kate of Courtland, KS, Magdalen Stehno, and Mitchell Stehno, Nixa MO; her great grandchildren Claire and Emily Jensik, Jack and Ron Samuel Rakaskas, Brody, Drake, and Sutton Sadler, Brayden, Cajsa, and Clayton Carlgren, Mia and Kole Manley, Brandt, Blakely, and Bristol Carlgren; her sister Phyllis Thull, Cawker City, KS; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Visitation and viewing will be Monday, June 20, 2022 from 9am-7pm at the funeral home. Funeral services will be at 3:00 pm, Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at Amana Lutheran Church in Scandia with PMA Marilyn Dunstan officiating. Order of Eastern Star will be conducting Memorial Rites during the service. Burial will be in the Scandia Lutheran Cemetery, rural Scandia.

Memorials can be made to the Amana Lutheran Church, Scandia Museum, or North Central Kansas Health Care Foundation, and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, Belleville, KS is assisting the Aspegren family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Daren L. Johnson - January 23, 1964 - June 10, 2022

Departed: 06/10/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Daren Lee Johnson, son of Leo Johnson and Virginia (Corman) Johnson, was born in Clay Center, Kansas on January 23, 1964. He passed from this life on Friday June 10, 2022 in Concordia, Kansas at age 58.

Daren grew up in Clay Center, Kansas and attended Clay Center High School, graduating in 1983. While in High School he joined the Kansas Army National Guard. After graduation, Daren attended Beloit Technical College for Diesel Mechanics. Daren served in the Army National Guard for 27 years, including a one year deployment in Iraq. He retired from the Army as a Staff Sergeant (Rank SSG), receiving several medals and awards. He later worked for Kansas State Printing, The Belleville Telescope, and Champlin Tire.

Daren enjoyed many activities and hobbies including trap shooting, horseshoes, playing golf, corn hole, hunting, metal detecting, riding motorcycles, playing Frisbee golf, long distance bike riding, tae kwando, feeding birds, gardening, listing to rock music, building racing mowers, sewing, traveling, spending time in Colorado at the lake or river. He enjoyed watching local dirt track racing, watching the Olympics, the Tour de France, baseball, football, and golf.

Daren was a member of the Scandia United Methodist Church and an active service officer for the Concordia American Legion.

He had two children, Ethan Darrel Johnson and Sheridan Johnson of Manhattan, Kansas.

Daren married Lisa Renee (Crouch) Johnson on July 4, 2012 and gained two children, Ashleigh and Cole Thomas.

Daren was preceded in death by his son, Ethan Johnson, his father, mother, and step-mother, Jan Johnson; brother, Eric Johnson; sisters, Darla Johnson and Anna Christine Johnson.

He is survived by his wife, Lisa Johnson; daughters, Sheridan Johnson and Ashleigh Thomas (Jonathan Wright); son, Cole Thomas; sister, Rhonda Miller; brother, Kerry Johnson; and many other dear family and friends.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 25, 2022 at 1:00pm at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home with Pastor Ben Fulton officiating. A private, family cemetery service will be held at the Belleville City Cemetery, at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Daren Johnson Memorial Fund in care of the funeral home. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Johnson family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Darlene M. Novotny - May 03, 1934 - June 04, 2022

Departed: 06/04/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Darlene M. Novotny was born on May 3, 1934, on the family farm near Narka, Kansas, to Lumir and Bessie (Mach) Novotny. She passed away on June 4, 2022, at the Park Villa in Clyde, Kansas, at the age of 88 years, one month, and one day.

Darlene attended Narka Schools and after graduating from Narka Rural High School in 1952, she entered the work force. She started her working years at one of the Fairbury, Nebraska, banks. She later moved back home to help her parents and worked in the office of Dr. Coyt Noble in Republic and later at the Munden State Bank.

In 2005 she retired to Belleville and enjoyed her home and time with relatives and friends. Darlene was proud of her Czech heritage and enjoyed dancing and listening to polka music.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Lumir and Bessie Novotny, both sets of grandparents, and many beloved aunts and uncles and cousins. Although she was an only child, Darlene is survived by several dear cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Cremation was chosen; there will be no visitation at the funeral home. A graveside Memorial Service will be held on June 21, 2022, at 11:00 a.m., at the National Cemetery south of Narka with Pastor Phil Goombi officiating.

Memorials are requested to the Republic County Hospital and may be sent in care of the Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home of Belleville. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Robert "Bob" L. Welch - October 16, 1927 - June 01, 2022

Departed: 06/01/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Robert "Bob" Lee Welch, 94, of Marysville, KS died June 1, 2022 at Country Place Senior Living in Marysville.

A Rosary Service will be Monday, June 13th beginning at 6:30 pm at St Gregory Catholic Church, Marysville.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, June 14th at 10:30 am at St Gregory Catholic Church. Grave site services will occur at Marysville Catholic Cemetery followed by a reception at St Gregory Church Hall for those in attendance.

Bob was born in Central City, Nebraska to Ernest Paul and Catherine Josephine (Marsolek) Welch on October 16,1927 and graduated from Crete High School in 1945. Bob started college at Doane College in Crete, Nebraska and in September 1946 he enlisted in the Army, was trained and sent to Korea. Following this assignment, he returned from Korea and received an Honorable Discharge in March of 1948. Bob would spend the next several years continuing his education with some concentration in Accounting and earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Studies from Doane College in 1952.

Bob married his Crete High School sweetheart, Dorothy Vlasin in July 1948. Their first child, Michael was born in 1951 and following Bob’s graduation they moved to Omaha where their second child, Susan was born in 1955. Bob was employed by the Omaha Athletic Club as Bookkeeper / Accountant.

Bob moved his growing family to Marysville in 1956 to operate the Pacific Hotel Coffee Shop. Bob and Dottie worked as a team to renovate the restaurant and re-establish operations. With great food, quality service and regular entertainment by Bob playing the organ, they quickly became friends with everyone in the Marysville community. But the hard work of running a restaurant and the birth of his 3rd child David in 1959, motivated Bob to change his career to insurance. Beginning as a salesman for Prudential he then acquired the Ready Insurance Agency in 1965. Over the next almost 25 years, Bob bought or merged with various independent insurance agencies until he retired in 1989 from the Houtz-Welch-Adrian Agency.

While insurance may have been his business platform, he was always delighted to share his great musical talent. His original band “The Beachcombers” became the Bob Welch Trio, the preferred dance band in a wide region in and around Marysville. With a limit of 50 dance-band engagements a year, their popularity assured that they never needed to advertise their availability. But that didn’t keep Bob from playing individually for every wedding, anniversary, birthday, funeral, theater production, or special event requests. He was the regular organist for St Gregory Catholic Church for more than 55 years.

Bob was actively engaged in the community and economic development of Marysville having served and led organizations fostering change and improvement. This included various executive positions such as President of Marysville Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Marysville Country Club, Past Commander of American Legion Post 163, 4th Degree and Past Grand Knight for Knights of Columbus, Chair and Board Member for Community Memorial Hospital and the Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Regional Representative of the American Red Cross and committee member / leader for economic development groups and building committees. Most recently, he was a Board Director for the latest re-construction of the St Gregory Catholic Church. His focus was to serve others.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy “Dottie” (Vlasin) Welch; sister, Jean Marie Kenny; and youngest son, David Lee Welch.

Survivors include son, Michael (Anita) Welch; daughter Susan Welch; daughter-in-law, Kelly Welch; grandchildren, Keith, Kate, Eric, Shawn, Dan, and Kyle. Great-grandchildren number 6 with one on the way.

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Marjorie R. Gregory - April 07, 1930 - May 29, 2022

Departed: 05/29/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Marjorie Gregory passed away on May 29, 2022, at the age of 92 years, in San Antonio, Texas.

Born at home in Narka, Kansas on April 7, 1930, to Emma and Tony Brabec, Marjorie was the youngest of three, a sister to older brothers Virgil and Earl. When Marjorie was 12, her older brother Virgil died from polio.

After Marjorie graduated from Narka High School, she attended St. Elizabeth’s School of Nursing in Lincoln Nebraska, where she earned her RN degree. While working as a nurse in Lincoln, Marjorie met her future husband, Bobby Gregory. They married on February 10, 1953 at the Presbyterian Church in Mahaska Kansas.

The newlyweds moved to San Francisco, California, where Bobby served in the U.S. Marine Corps. In 1957—after the birth of three daughters—the family of five moved to Oahu, Hawaii. Bobby was later transferred to Camp Pendleton and the family settled in Vista, California. Marjorie continued to work as an RN at Tri-City Hospital and as an office nurse for surgeons Phillip Wilson, MD, and John Adams, MD, in Oceanside, California.

Bobby retired from the Marines in 1969 and built a home for his family in an unincorporated area of Vista. He began working for the U.S. Postal Service in 1970, until his untimely death in 1972. Marjorie continued supporting her daughters, increasing her nursing skills to specialize in gastroenterology (GI) procedures. She worked at the Center of Endoscopy in Oceanside until she retired at age 75.

After retirement, Marjorie continued serving her community as a volunteer at the Temecula Police Department in Temecula, California. Wanting to remain close to her daughters, she moved to Texas in 2012.

Preceded in death by her husband, parents, brothers, grandparents and numerous cousins, aunts and uncles, Marjorie is survived by her three daughters, Linda James of San Antonio, Texas; Elizabeth Wawersich of Minnesota; and Antonia Gregory of Allen, Texas. Five grandchildren and six great grandchildren also survive her.

Marjorie will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Bobby, and among her cherished family at the National Cemetery in Narka, Kansas. Graveside services will be held at National Cemetery on Friday, June 10th, 2022, at 10:00 a.m.

Given Marjorie’s continued love of animals, her family requests donations are made to your local animal shelter in lieu of flowers. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home of Belleville, Kansas, is assisting the Gregory family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Barbara C. Lewellyn - July 04, 1936 - May 23, 2022

Departed: 05/23/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Barbara Carol (Milner) Lewellyn, 85, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 23, 2022, at the Belleville Health Care Center in Belleville, Kansas. She was born July 4, 1936, to Archie and Anona (Owens) Milner.  She was the seventh of nine children and was the last surviving of her siblings.

She was united in marriage to Donald J. Lewellyn on November 13, 1954.  Out of this union, eight children were born.

Barbara loved football, NASCAR, and baseball. One of her biggest highlights was going to a Dallas Cowboys game. The other was watching her grandson Tyler on the track and was one of this biggest fans.  Barbara was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary for many years, and an Avon representative for 30+ years.  She loved talking to people, going to social events, traveling, and whenever there was a bingo game, she was there.

Barbara is survived by her children Deb Lewellyn of Belleville; Randy Lewellyn (Ann) of Belleville; Dan Lewellyn (Dawn) of Boulder, Colorado; Curtis Lewellyn of Kansas City, Kansas; Tammy Frye (Marty) of Belleville; Tim Lewellyn (Darlene) of Lamar, Colorado; and Tracy Lewellyn (Tara) of Omaha, Nebraska; 11 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her son Cory, her loving husband of 62 years, Donald; siblings, Beth, Gene, Shirley, Dale, Betty, Joy, Jack, and Pam; nephew, Darwin Kasl; and grandson, BJ Webb.

Barbara loved having the house full of family and friends, the more the merrier. She will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, details to be announced.

Memorials are requested to the family’s choice, and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Lewellyn family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Fern L. Flores - September 27, 1937 - May 08, 2022

Departed: 05/08/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Fern Louise (Adams) Flores passed away on May 8, 2022, at 84 years of age. Fern was preceded in death by her parents, Fay and Cleo (Ball) Adams. She is survived by her children, Cathy, Craig, Taffy, Jeff, Sean, Faye, and Jimmy, and many extended family members including grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Fern was born on September 27, 1937, in Tryon, Oklahoma at the family farm. She spent most of her childhood in Belleville, and graduated from Belleville High School in 1956. Fern loved to travel and spent many years as a traveling minister where she touched countless lives. Until her recent return to Belleville, Fern spent many years in New Mexico where she leaves behind many treasured friends and family.

Fern enjoyed friends, family, and good gospel music. She was happiest when all were combined. Memories of Fern will be shared by those she left behind through the music that she loved.

Friends may sign Fern’s register book on Friday, May 13, 2022, from 9am to 8pm at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, where the family will great friends from 6pm to 8pm.

Memorials are requested to Meadowlark Hospice and can be sent in care of Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, PO Box 566, Belleville, Kansas 66935. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Flores family with arrangements. www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Cheryl A. Zenger - December 09, 1948 - April 26, 2022

Departed: 04/26/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Cheryl Ann Zenger was born on December 9, 1948, in Concordia, to Virgle & Marguerite (Menke) Hanshaw. Cheryl grew up near Haddam, attending Haddam Public Schools, and graduating from Haddam High School, class of 1966.

Following high school, she was united in marriage to Willard H. Zenger on January 14, 1968, in Haddam. To this union of 50 years, three children were born, Tammy, Scott, and Buffy.

Cheryl was a farm wife and homemaker. Willard and Cheryl owned and operated the Haddam Grocery Store for many years. Later in life, she worked as the Haddam City Clerk. She enjoyed going to garage sales, along with sewing and crocheting, and sitting down with a good book.

Cheryl passed away on April 26th, 2022, at Shawnee Mission Medical Center in Shawnee, Kansas, at the age of 73 years, 4 months and 17 days.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Willard in 2018, and brother Norman.

She is survived by her children, daughter Tammy Dankenbring of Lenexa, son Scott Zenger and his wife Stacy of Shawnee, and daughter Buffy Hemming and her husband Charles of Belle Chase, Louisiana. Cheryl is also survived by her grandchildren, Carli Dankenbring, Terry Dankenbring (Jordan), Brenden Dankenbring, Peyton Zenger, Brice Zenger, Cody Allen, Rylie Hemming and Daxton Hemming. She is also survived by her brother Dennis, many cousins, and a community of friends.

Funeral Services will be Friday, April 29th, 2022, at 11:00 am, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville, with Pastor David Manyara officiating. The family will greet friends from 9:30am until service time, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Haddam City Cemetery.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 28th, from 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, at the funeral home.

Memorials are requested to the Haddam Café, and may be sent in care of the funeral home. Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Zenger family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

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Marvin D. Bergstrom - July 20, 1934 - April 15, 2022

Departed: 04/15/2022 (Belleville)

Obituary Preview: Marvin Dee Bergstrom, 87, passed away on April 15th, 2022 at Belleville Healthcare Center, Belleville, Kansas.  He was born July 20, 1934, at Cuba, Kansas, to Arvid and Ethel (Nolan) Bergstrom.  Marvin entered the United States Army in 1956 and reported to training at Ft. Chaffee, Arkansas and later stationed in Oakland, California, until he was honorably discharged in 1957.  He then served in the Kansas National Guard for six additional years.

Marvin married Marilyn Johnson on September 23, 1955, at the Brantford Covenant Church.  They started their married life north of Clifton, Kansas, and in 1957, they moved to Courtland, Kansas, where they started a farming/livestock operation.  During this time, Marvin started brokering sheep and became a country buyer for Wilson Packing Company of Omaha, Nebraska.

In this time frame, Bergstrom Livestock Company was formed and Marvin continued buying lambs for a major packing plant in Greeley, Colorado, that went through four different corporate ownerships over several decades.  Quinten continues the business, which is now over 60 years in operation.

In 1984 the Bergstrom’s partnered with the Dreesen’s from Belleville, Kansas, to purchase the sale barn in Washington, Kansas.  Farmers Livestock Commission Company operated over the next 23 years until they elected to sell the business.  Marvin loved managing the sales operations.  He enjoyed traveling in the country and visiting with all the patrons & buyers.  Many additional life-long friendships were formed during the years.

Marvin was involved with many various boards, including several Courtland Coop boards, Rural Water District, Courtland and Pike Valley School boards and the Covenant Church board.  His favorite was working as a Republic County Commissioner from 2007 to 2021.  He enjoyed working with all the people and different organizations throughout the county.

He is survived by his children: Quinten Bergstrom and his wife Melissa of Courtland, and Brenda Lagasse and her husband Lance of Concordia.  Grandchildren:  Kayla Bergstrom, Wichita, KS; Konner Bergstrom (Brittany) of McPherson, KS; Kora Copas (Taylor), Salina, KS; Layne Lagasse, Norwich, KS; Taylor Lagasse, Concordia, KS along with step grandchildren Derek Stewart (Miranda), San Angelo, TX, and Devon Sherlock (Kellan), Washington, KS, along with 11 great grandchildren.  He is also survived by his five sisters and three brother in laws.  He is preceded in death by his wife Marilyn in 2017, parents, parent in laws, brother Arvid and his wife Rosella Bergstrom, and brother in law Harvey Roscoe.

Funeral Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 23rd, 2022, at the Courtland Memorial Covenant Church with burial following at the Courtland Cemetery.  Visitation will be Friday, April 22nd, from 9am – 8pm, with family greeting friends from 6pm – 8pm, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville.

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Funeral Services

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home offers a range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs of each family. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and celebration of life events, the funeral home's experienced staff will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's memory. The funeral home's services include:

• Traditional funerals with visitation and burial
• Cremation services with memorial gatherings or scattering ceremonies
• Memorial services without the presence of the body
• Celebration of life events to honor your loved one's life

Facilities and Amenities

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is proud to offer a warm and welcoming facility that provides a comforting atmosphere for families to gather and say goodbye. The funeral home's facilities include:

• A spacious chapel for funeral ceremonies and memorial services
• A comfortable visitation room for family and friends to gather
• A private family lounge for quiet reflection and conversation
• Ample parking for guests attending services

Staff and Leadership

The staff at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home are dedicated professionals who are committed to providing exceptional service and care to the families they serve. Led by experienced funeral directors, the staff includes:

• Funeral directors with years of experience in funeral service
• Caring and compassionate funeral assistants
• Skilled embalmers and restorative artists
• Administrative staff who handle all aspects of funeral arrangements

Community Involvement

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Belleville community and is committed to giving back through various charitable initiatives and community programs. The funeral home participates in local events, sponsors community organizations, and supports educational programs that promote death education and awareness.

Pre-Planning Services

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home understands that planning ahead can be a wise decision for individuals who want to ensure their final wishes are respected. The funeral home offers pre-planning services that allow individuals to make their own funeral arrangements in advance, including:

• Selecting a casket or urn
• Choosing a burial plot or cremation option
• Designating pallbearers or selecting music for the service
• Setting aside funds to cover funeral expenses

Contact Information

If you're looking for more information about Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home or would like to speak with a member of our staff, please don't hesitate to contact us:

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 a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable donations or memorial services.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend will write 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 typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable donations or memorial services.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's preferences. Typically, an obituary ranges from 100 to 500 words.

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, on the other hand, provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

Where are obituaries published?

Obituaries are typically published in local newspapers, online obituary websites, and social media platforms. They may also be printed in funeral programs or other memorial materials.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and the length of the obituary. Some online obituary websites offer free or low-cost options, while traditional newspapers may charge a fee based on the length of the obituary.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to celebrate the person's life and provide a visual representation of their personality.

What is an online obituary?

An online obituary is a digital version of a traditional print obituary. It is published on a website or social media platform and can be shared easily with friends and family around the world.

How long do online obituaries remain available?

The length of time an online obituary remains available varies depending on the website or platform. Some sites may keep obituaries available indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period of time.

Can I edit an online obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, yes, you can edit an online obituary after it has been published. However, it's best to check with the website or platform beforehand to confirm their policies.

What is a guest book or condolence message?

A guest book or condolence message is a way for friends and family to leave messages of sympathy and support for the grieving family. These messages are often attached to the online obituary.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

You can typically submit an obituary to a newspaper by email or through their website. Be sure to check their guidelines and deadlines beforehand to ensure timely publication.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and can ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

Is it necessary to include funeral information in an obituary?

No, it's not necessary to include funeral information in an obituary. However, doing so can be helpful for those who wish to attend the service or send flowers.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, humor can be an appropriate way to celebrate someone's life and personality in an obituary. Just be sure to consider the tone and audience when deciding what to include.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice an error or inaccuracy in an obituary, contact the publication or website immediately to request corrections. They will typically make changes as soon as possible.

Can I reuse an existing obituary for multiple publications?

Yes, you can reuse an existing obituary for multiple publications. However, be sure to check each publication's guidelines and formatting requirements beforehand.

What is a memorial donation or charity mention in an obituary?

A memorial donation or charity mention in an obituary is a way to suggest that donations be made in lieu of flowers to a specific charity or organization that was meaningful to the deceased.

How do I find old or archived obituaries?

You can search for old or archived obituaries through online databases such as genealogy websites or newspaper archives. Local libraries or historical societies may also have access to these resources.

Can I create a video tribute or slideshow for an online obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms allow you to create video tributes or slideshows to accompany the written obituary. These can be a meaningful way to celebrate someone's life.

What is the purpose of an online memorial page?

An online memorial page is a dedicated space where friends and family can share memories, stories, and photos of the deceased. It serves as a virtual gathering place for those who wish to pay tribute and celebrate their life.

How do I notify social media platforms about someone's passing?

You can typically notify social media platforms about someone's passing by reporting their account as deceased through their website or mobile app. This will allow them to memorialize the account and prevent further activity.