Isabella “Izzy B” Rose Hayes, East Lynne, 10 month old daughter of Nathan and Lori (Schmoll) Hayes, earned her angel wings on July 21, 2010 at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City from complications after her second heart surgery on July 2010.
  Isabella was born September 17, 2009 at St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Kansas City.
  She was born seven weeks premature, weighing only 3 pounds, 6 ounces.
  She was diagnosed at 13 days old with a congenital heart defect, Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. Even from the beginning she was a fighter.
  Isabella spent the first 4- 1/2 months of her life at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City awaiting, undergoing and recovering from her first heart surgery.
  She finally came home on January 28, 2010 and began learning how to be a baby. Isabella, along with many supporters (Team Gettin’ Busy for Izzy) participated in the Kansas City Heart Walk in May with the CHD Families Association. She was a big hit!
  Isabella had such a strong, tough little personality. She was an extremely happy baby, even through all her struggles. She was truly an inspiration to everyone she met, and many she didn’t meet.
  “Izzy B.” was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, James Hayes.
  She is survived by her parents; Nathan and Lori (Schmoll) Hayes of East Lynne, Missouri, one sister; Chloe Hayes of Ashland, Kentucky; her paternal grandmother; Joyce Adkins of Ashland, Kentucky; her maternal grandparents; Max and Gayle (Prewitt) Schmoll of Pleasant Hill; her paternal great grandparents, Bessie Breakfield of New Martinsburg, Ohio; Harold Wayne Baker of Olive Hills, Kentucky; and Betty Stevens of Lynchfield, Kentucky; her aunts and uncles, Amy Schmoll & Doug Johnson of Harrisonville; Abbie Schmoll and Boyd Engelhardt of Butler; Jeremy and Krista Hayes, Justin Hayes and Amanda Johnson, all of Ashland, Kentuck; eight cousins, and many other loving relatives, friends and supporters.
  Services were held 10 a.m. Monday, July 26, 2010, at the Wallace Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill with Pastor Nancy Cantrell and Rev. Mark Turvaville officiating.
  Casket Bearers were Nathan Hayes and Jeremy Hayes.
  Burial was in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

He was born March 13, 1928 in Henryetta, Okla., the son of Harrison S. and Emma M. Eslick.
  Clifford was a WWII and Korean War Veteran serving in the Army Air Corps. He was extremely proud of his grandson, Justin, who is a 2nd Lt. in the Army, serving in Iraq. Every morning Clifford would salute his grandson's picture.
  On March 30, 1956, Clifford was united in marriage to Lillian C. Howe in Aullville, Missouri.
  He was a member of the Big Creek Baptist Church in Pleasant Hill, and a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #3118 in Pleasant Hill.
  He retired from Western Electric in 1981 and was a lifetime member of Telecom Pioneer.
  He enjoyed visits from his grandchildren, which included taking them fishing, playing endless hours of games and showering them with unconditional love.
  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, George Eslick, Clarence “Babe” and Marvin; four sisters, Gladys Pait, Ruth Hudson, Gertrude Sparks and Bertha Gower.
  He is survived by his loving and steadfast wife, Lillian of the home; three sons William (Donna) Eslick, Clifford (Darlene) Eslick, Jr., and Raymond (Brenda) Eslick; two daughters Della (Dale) Hircock and Cathy (Daniel) Schotte; one brother Lee (Wanda) Eslick; 15 grandchildren; 13 greatgrandchildren; other relatives and friends.
  His remarkable life touched many friends and relatives.
  He will be remembered as a loving and kind husband, father, grandfather and friend. His infectious laugh will always be remembered and missed.
  Funeral services were July 20, 2010 at the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home. Rev. Todd MacLean of the Big Creek Baptist Church officiated.
  A solo was provided by Mrs. Kristin Eslick.
  Graveside military services were performed in Pleasant Hill Cemetery with full military honors by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #3118 Honor Guard.
  Casket bearers were Chris Elliott, Clinton Eslick, Derek Eslick, Douglas Eslick, Justin Eslick, Allison Schotte, Brian Schotte and Matthew Snyder.
  Donations may be made to the Big Creek Baptist Church Building Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Mildred Pauline “Polly” Alexander, 84, of Pleasant Hill, was born Wednesday, February 24, 1926, in Kansas City, the daughter of Harold and Bessie (Highbarger) McIntyre.
  She died at 10:35 p.m. Sunday, June 27, 2010, at the Lee's Summit Medical Center.
  On May 23, 1943, Polly was united in marriage to Kenny Alexander, Sr., in Kansas City. He preceded her in death on April 26, 2000.
  She worked for Pleasant Hill Manufacturing Co. before going to work as a Layout Operator for AT&T in Lee’s Summit, retiring in 1982.
  She was a member of the First Baptist Church for over 40 years and was a leader of their bus ministry; later she was a charter member of the Calvary Community Church and currently an active member of the Big Creek Baptist Church. She was also a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America.
  Besides her parents and husband she was preceded in death by: two brothers, Jim McIntyre and Leonard McIntyre; and one sister, Helen Alexander.
  She is survived by: her son Kenny (Beverly) Alexander, Jr., and her daughter Dee (Bill) Sanders, both of Pleasant Hill; one grandson, Mike (Paula) Ballard of Marshall; one granddaughter, Krystal Alexander of Pleasant Hill; five great-grandchildren, Adina, Stormy, Alisha, Cortney, and Austin; and other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services were held on Friday, July 2, 2010, at the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, with the Reverends Todd MacLean and Dr. James Butterfield officiating. Music was rendered by Dennis and Cindy Dittmore and Debbie Martin.
  Burial was in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Casket bearers were Jim Alexander, Larry Alexander, Ray Alexander, Robert Alexander, Jack McIntyre, Jeff McIntyre and Rodney McIntyre.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Big Creek Baptist Church Building Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements were under the direction of the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home.
 

William Joseph “Bill” Eakins, 85, of Pleasant Hill, departed this life June 25
  He was born on February 6, 1925 in Kansas City, the son of Jesse May and Helen Emma (Mohan) Eakins.
  On June 2, 1973, Bill was united in marriage to Edna Marie (Taylor) Becker in Pleasant Hill.
  He was a World War II Army Veteran serving in the Southwest Pacific Theatre.
  Bill was employed as a Millwright for several pharmaceutical companies in the Kansas City area.
  He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans and Veteran of Foreign Wars Post #3118, Pleasant Hill.
  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers Robert and Jesse; and two sisters Josephine and Helen.
  He is survived by his loving wife Edna of the home; one son Terry (Anita) Eakins of Stillwell, Kansas; one daughter Roxanne Higbee of Mission, Kansas; step sons James (Veronica) Becker of Ft. Mohave, Arizona and Robert (DoraMay) Becker of Harrisonville and Charles Becker of Austin, Texas; 13 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, July 1, 2010 at the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill.
  Reverend Carl Knapp of the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church will officiate.
  Graveside military services and interment will be in the Floral Hills East Cemetery, Lee’s Summit by the Pleasant Hill VFW Post #3118 Honor Guard.
  Casket bearers will be members of Pleasant Hill VFW Post #3118.
  Visitation will be held 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening, June 30. at the funeral home.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Disabled American Veterans and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com.
  Arrangements were under the direction of the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.

William E. Riffe, 85, departed this life June 23, 2010 at the Pleasant Hill Health and Rehabilitation Center.
  He was born on May 17, 1925 in Camden, Mo., to Irvin and Flora Violet (Brinkley) Riffe.
  William spent his early years in Camden and graduated from Camden High School in 1943.
  On August 18, 1943, William joined the United States Army and served his country during World War II in the Army Air Corps.
  It was while he was stationed at Chanute Field in Danville, Ill. that he met a young Navy nurse from Kentland, Ind., Verneda Mae Walkup.
  Eleven days later, on January 15, 1946, they were united in marriage, a union that lasted for over 64 years.
  William completed his military service and was honorably discharged on February 4, 1947.
  With their military service completed, William and Verneda moved to Lafayette, Ind. where William attended Purdue University.
  In 1967 the Riffe family moved to Pleasant Hill to make their home.
  William worked for and retired from General Motors. William and Verneda also owned and operated the Riffe Tax Service for 53 years.
  William was preceded in death by his father, Irvin Riffe and his mother, Violet Norton.
  He is survived by his wife, Verneda Riffe of the home; two sons, Roy Riffe of New York City, and James Riffe of San Antonio, Tex. and one daughter Carol Todd of San Antonio, three grandchildren, three great grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
  A graveside service was held June 28, 2010 at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery under the direction of the Wallace Funeral Home.
  Chaplain Michael Campbell of Crossroads Hospice officiated
  Michael Cox was vocalist.
  Military funeral honors were provided by the Missouri Military Honors Team from VFW Post #3118 of Pleasant Hill.

Margaret June Blackman Thornton, 74, died June 18, 2010 at North Carolina Veterans Home in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
  She was born June 22, 1935 in Pleasant Hill, the daughter of Charles Dewey and Hazel Irene Blackman.
  June was a graduate of William Jewell College in Liberty and was a physical education teacher in Grandview, before moving to Cincinnati, Ohio, where she taught in the Cincinnati School System.
  She is survived by her husband Richard Thornton, two sons, Richard Thornton of Fayetteville, and David Thornton of Indianapolis, Indiana, five grandchildren and her brother Bob Blackman of Warrensburg.
  Memorial services were held June 23, 2010 at the Rogers and Breece Funeral Home, Fayetteville. Burial was in the Sand Hills Veterans Cemetery, Fayetteville.

Ernie William Bartlett, 87, Pleasant Hill, passed away at Golden Years Nursing Home in Harrisonville, June 20, 2010.
  He was born in Compton, Ark., on January 1, 1923, to Robert Dewey Bartlett and Oma Lula Plumlee Bartlett.
  Ernie married Inez Christine Armer on September 5, 1941 at Osage, Ark. He was a proud father of seven children, an avid coon hunter, gardener and outdoorsman.
  He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, an infant son, a son, Ernie Dwayne Bartlett; four brothers, Vernie, Roy Fay Leonard and Billy Hugh Bartlett; three sisters, Aldean Bartlett, Girtrue Phillips, Ruby Armer and one son-inlaw, Fred Jewett.
  He is survived by his wife Inez of the home, one son, Devoe Woodworth and Linda of Harrison, Ark.; three daughters, Doris Jewett, Lexington; Inez Charlene Haile and Raymond and Kathy Dean McCauley and Gene, all of Pleasant Hill; one sister, Adean Youngblood and Joe of Alpena, Ark.; one brother, William Jasper Bartlett and Barbara of Compton, Ark.; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
  Serving as pallbearers were Devoe Woodworth, David Collins, Doug Collins, Matt Wilhite, Jake Burch and German Filorio. Honorary pallbearers were Raymond Haile, Gene McCauley, Scott Brown, Randy Leibold, Tim Collins, Corey Collins, ChristianWilhite, TylerWilhite, Rober Eddings and Dan Peach.
  Burial was at the Plumlee Cemetery at Compton, Ark. on June 25, 2010.
  Arrangements were under the direction of thr Christeson Funeral Home in Harrison, Ark. Officiated by Minister Steve Hogue, Songs by Donna Plumlee and Matt Piper.
  In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent for Golden Years Nursing Home c/o Kathy McCauley, 33205 E. 179th Street, Pleasant Hill, MO 64080.

Joshua Pollock, 28, of Ft. Meyers, Florida passed away on June 5, 2010. Josh was born on May 17, 1982 in Kansas City.
  He grew up in Pleasant Hill and attended school there. After high school, he worked for a drywall company, hanging, taping and sanding drywall.
  Five years ago he moved to Ft. Meyers to pursue his dream of being a Stand-up Comedian.
  He was preceded in death by a cousin T.K. Ogilvie who passed from Cystic Fibrosis.
  Survivors include his mother and father, fiancé Kerry Collins, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends in Florida and Missouri.
  Memorial services were held Saturday June 26, 2010 at Langsford Funeral Home in Lee’s Summit.
  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 6950 Squibb Road, Suite 310; Mission, Ks. 66202.
  Arrangements were under the ddirection of the Langsford Funeral Home, Lee’s Summit.

Darlena M. Bunnell, 72, passed away on June 19, 2010 at John Knox Village Care Center in Lee’s Summit.
  She was born November 16, 1937 in Pleasant Hill to Everett William and Verda Bell (King) Bunnell.
  Darlena grew up in the Pleasant Hill area and graduated from Pleasant Hill High School.
  After graduation, she moved to Lee’s Summit and went to work at A. T. & T. as an assembler. She retired from A. T. & T. several years ago.
  In 2002 Darlena was diagnosed with cancer. During her 7-year battle, she did not consider herself a “cancer victim” nor did she let it rule her life. Instead with each new challenge her illness presented, she fought back with determination and became a “victorious cancer survivor.”
  Even though Darlena had been gone from Pleasant Hill for many hears, she kept in contact with many of her classmates and eagerly anticipated the class reunions and periodic gatherings they arranged.
  One such gathering was held on Saturday June 19. Since she was not able to attend, her classmates had signed a card to let her know they were thinking of her.
  When one classmate was informed of her death, the following day, he remarked that she did get to attend a reunion after all, just a reunion of a different kind and in a different place.
  Darlena was preceded in death by her parents, Everett and Verda Bunnell.
  She is survived by two daughters Debra Duffey of Lee’s Summit and Pam Evinger of Oak Grove; one brother, Bill Bunnell of Adrian; two sisters, Louetta Elwell of Montrose and Connie VanLue of Butler; four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
  Graveside services were on June 24, 2010 at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery with Rev. Richard Carter officiating.
  Casket bearers were Joshua Duffey, Steve Nichols, Blake Nichols, Clay Evinger, Ian Woods, Shon Badder and Shorty Evinger.
  Memorial contributions may be made to the Darlena Bunnell Memorial Fund in care of the Pleasant Hill Bank or may be left at the Wallace Funeral Home.

Roy F. Sloan, 76, of Highland, Md., formerly of Pleasant Hill, died June 11, 2010.
  He was the son of Hubert and Lola (Pelsor) Sloan and brother of Patricia (Sloan) Alexander.
  After cremation is accorded a memorial service will be held at the Donaldson Funeral Home in Laurel,Maryland.
  A memorial service will be held in Pleasant Hill with inurnment in the Sloan Cemetery at a later date, under the direction of the Wallace Funeral Home.
  A complete obituary will appear when final arrangements are completed.

Wilburn James Ritthaler 95, of Pleasant Hill, departed this life on June 14, 2010, at the Pleasant Hill Health and Rehabilitation Center.
  He was born March 16, 1915, in Moundridge, Kansas, the son of Philip and Rose Kathryn (Morlock) Ritthaler.
  His young life at home was shared with his brother Carl and two sisters, Louise and Ruby. He received the nickname of “Dick” as a small child andw ent by it for the rest of his life.
  Dick was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Moundridge and later became a member of the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church where he remained an active member until present day.
  Dick graduated from Moundridge High School in 1932 as the vice-president of his senior class.
  He was married to Vendla Petersen onDecember 2, 1935 in Pleasant Hill. They celebrated nearly 69 years of marriage before Vendla’s death.
  Dick was employed by the Moundridge Milling Company and hauled flour for several years. After working for Lake City Arsenal during the war, he was a signalman for the Kansas City Terminal Railway at Union Station.
  Dick was the shop foreman where he repaired and maintained equipment for the signal department. He retired from the railroad in 1980.
  Besides his wife Venda, Dick was also preceded in death by one daughter Barbara; grandson Scott, his brother Carl and one sister Ruby Armstrong.
  Survivors include his son Richard of Pleasant Hill; his daughter Linda and husband Todd of Clinton, Illinois; his sister Louise Kohler of Harrisonville; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and many other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services were June 16, 2010, at the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, Pleasant Hill. The family received friends following the service.
  Graveside services wereheld June 17, 2010, at the Mound Township Cemetery in Moundridge, Kans.
  Memorials can be made to the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church.

William L. Anderson, Belton, passed away June 19, 2010 at St. Joseph Medical Center surrounded by his family. At Bill’s request, a private graveside service will be held.
  Bill is survived by his wife, Donna of the home; two sons, Dennis Anderson and wife Deborah, Virginia Beach, VA, Steve Anderson and wife Mindy, Lee’s Summit; daughter, KelliWilliams and husband Richard, Belton; six grandchildren, Michael Anderson (Connie), Corinth, Texas; Eric Hunter, Dallas, Texas; Dusty Anderson, Kansas City; Cody Anderson, Santa Monica, Calif., TravisWalker (Angela), Nederland, Texas;AmberGaspard (Mark), El Paso, Texas; one great-granddaughter, Haylee Anderson, Mexico, Mo.; two nephews,KevinAnderson, Harrisonville, and Andy Anderson, Cartersville, Ga.
  Bill was born in Harrisonville, and was preceded in death by his parents, William M. and Prudilee Anderson; a brother, A.J. (Jack) Anderson and a daughter, Jill Hunter.
  Memorial contributions to charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Cass County Cremation Service.

Joshua Pollock, 28, formerly of Pleasant Hill, passed away in Northern Fort Meyers, Florida on June 5, 2010.
  A complete obituary will follow in next week’s Pleasant Hill Times.
  A memorial fund has been established to help with the expenses of the untimely passing.
  Memorial contributions may be made to The Joshua Pollock Memorial Fund in care of the Pleasant Hill Bank, PO Box 430, Pleasant Hill, MO.

Wilburn J. “Dick” Ritthaler, 95, of Pleasant Hill, departed this life, June 14, 2010, at the Pleasant Hill Health & Rehabilitation Center.
  Funeral services are pending under and will be under the direction of the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home of Pleasant Hill.
  A complete obituary will be published in next week’s edition of the Pleasant Hill Times and will be posed online at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements are under the directioon of the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.

Kaden Alexander Danuser, three month old infant son of Daniel and Josefine Danuser of Lone Jack, passed away June 8, 2010 at Lee’s Summit Medical Center.
  He was born on March 17, 2010.
  Funeral services were held June 11, 2010 in the Chapel of Langsford Funeral Home with burial in Floral Hills East Cemetery of Lee’s Summit.
  The funeral service was under the direction of Langsford Funeral Home of Lee’s Summit.

Margaret Louise Koerber, 81, of Kansas City, departed this life June 11, 2010 at her home.
  She was born September 4, 1928 in Strasburg, the daughter of Frank Samuel and Willard Josephine (Brain) Norton.
  On April 23, 1949, Margaret was united in marriage to George Martin Koerber in Kansas City.
  He preceded her in death on May 8, 1993. Louise was a cafeteria manager for the North Kansas City School District, retiring in 1994.
  She was a faithful and active member of the Gashland United Methodist Church.
  Besides her husband, she was also preceded in death by two brothers Robert Norton and Willard S. Norton; two sisters, Helen Norton and Frances Thurman.
  She is survived by two sons, George N. Koerber of Mt. Vernon,Washington and Frank M. Koerber of Bellevue, Washington; two daughters, Patricia A. (Terry) Carter of Kearney, and Nancy J. (Patti Claxton) Koerber of Gladstone; five grandchildren Terrill Carter, Ryan (Jenni) Carter, Justina Carter (fiance Derick Barnes), Kasey Koerber and Corey Koerber; two greatgrandchildren, Dailee and Cash ; one brother, Frank R. Norton of Santa Ana, California; two sisters, Eleanor Groll of Greenwood, and Inez Fredrickson of Harrisonville, other relatives and many wonderful friends.
  A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., on Wednesday, June 16, 2010. at the funeral home.
  Pastor Paul Lanning of the Gashland Methodist Church will officiate.
  Burial will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Casket bearers are Terrill Carter, Ryan Carter, John Church,William Groll, Kasey Koerber, Dan Norton and Stephen Norton. Honorary casket bearer will be Craig Norton.
  Visitation will be held 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home.
  A Celebration of Life service will be held at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 19, 2010, at the Gashland United Methodist Church, 7715 N. Oak Traffic way, Kansas City.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Gashland UnitedMethodist Church and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements were under the direction of the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong, Pleasant Hill.

Esther Mae Ross, 62, of Pleasant Hill, departed this life June 11, 2010 at her home.
  She was born June 30, 1947 in Ellsworth, Kansas, the daughter of John Herman and Emily Maria (Wacker) Saenger.
  On September 4, 1967, Esther was united in marriage to Glendon Dean Ross in Sylvan Grove, Kansas. He survives.
  Esther was employed as a kitchen assistant for the Pleasant Hill Health & Rehabilitation Center, and she attended the Strasburg Baptist Church.
  Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother Harold Saenger.
  She is also survived by one brother Fred Saenger of Hutchinson, Kansas; three sisters, Caroline Schroeder of Riverside, Calif.; Ruth Turner of Chandler, Texas; Hilda Schneider of Salina, Kansas, other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 16, 2010 at the Strasburg Baptist Church.
  Pastor Preston Sanders, minister of the church, will officiate.
  Burial will be in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
  Casket bearers are Jim Hull, D.A. Kramer, Bob Ross, Dennis Ross, Jim Ross, Junior Ross and Lloyd Ross.
  Visitation will be from 1- 2 p.m. prior to the service at the church.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Eternal Vine Ministries.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements were under the direction of the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill, Missouri.

Hugh Renfro, 89, of Pleasant Hill, departed this world on May 29, 2010 at St. Luke’s East Medical Center in Lee’s Summit, surrounded by his loving family.
  Hugh was born November 12, 1920 in Sundance, Wyoming, the son of Hollie and Mary Ethel (Gott) Renfro. He spent his younger years in the Nevada,Missouri area.
  On July 13, 1940 Hugh married Mary Edith Newlin in Ft. Scott, Kansas. They made their home in Nevada 1959 when they moved to Greenwood.
  Hugh was an over-the road truck driver for Jack Cooper Transport from 1955 until 1981. After Hugh retired, he and Mary moved to Pomme de Terre Lake in Pittsburg, Missouri. In 2001 Hugh and Mary moved to Pleasant Hill to be closer to family. He was a member of the Teamsters Local #41 of Kansas City.
  Hugh was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years; Mary Edith Renfro, two sons; an infant, Mark Eugene Renfro and Stephen Renfro; two daughters; an infant, Patricia Irene and Betty June Long; four brothers, Ralph Renfro, John Renfro, WilliamRenfro andHollieRenfro, Jr.; four sisters, Florence Lively, Hazel Hardin, Betty Crosswhite and infant Mildred Renfro.
  He is survived by one son; Jerry Renfro and wife Patricia of Kingsville; one daughter; Joyce Graham and husband Jerry of Pleasant Hill; one sister; Violet Smith of Nevada; six grandchildren; Christine Utley and husband Steve; Jonnathan Renfro, Scott Renfro, Bryan Renfro, Kristyl Cassaday and husband Jeremy and Hugh Graham; 11 great grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
  Funeral services were held June 2, 2010 at the Wallace Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill with Rev. Kent Deubner, officiating.
  Casket bearers were Jerry Graham, Steve Utley, Jeremy Cassaday, Hugh Graham, Jonnathan Renfro, Scott Renfro and Bryan Renfro.
  Burial at the Moore Cemetery in Nevada. In memory of Hugh, beloved father, grandfather and great grandfather, the family requests donations to Pleasant Hill Fire and Rescue.
  Arrangements by Wallace Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.

Lisa Michelle Ochoa, 40 of Pleasant Hill, died May 25, 2010 at Lee's Summit Medical Center.
  Lisa was born February 12, 1970 in Kansas City, the daughter of Gerald and Darla (Gaylord) Wilbur.
  She was a 1988 graduate of Belton High School. She worked as a CNA at a nursing home. While growing up, Lisa attended the Church of the Nazarene in Belton. Lisa was preceded in death by her mother.
  She is survived by two daughters, Ashlee Lawless of Creighton and Cheyenne Ochoa of Lone Jack; one son, Troy Lawless of Creighton; her father, Gerald Wilbur of Springfield; three brothers, John Terry and his wife Christine of Ft. Riley, Kans., Luke Lines of St. Louis and Jeff Wilbur of Osawatomie, Kans.; four sisters, Kimberly Gillilan of Belton, Susan Lasley and her husband, Brian of Lee's Summit, Mary Dudley and her husband, David of Kansas City and Joi Siliam and her husband, Bobby of Louisburg, Kans.; her fiancé, Shannon “Red” Crouse of Pleasant Hill and numerous nieces and nephews.
  Funeral services were held May 28, 2010 at the Atkinson Chapel in Harrisonville. Burial was in the Belton Cemetery.
  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lisa Ochoa Memorial Fund, c/o Atkinson Funeral Home, 600 West Wall Street, Harrisonville, MO 64701.
  Arrangements were under the direction of Atkinson Funeral Home, Harrisonville. Online condolences may be made to atkinsonfuneralhome.com.

Robert Louis Miller, 78, of Pleasant Hill, departed this life on June 4, 2010 at the KU Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas.
  He was bornMay 18, 1932 in Ferguson, Missouri, the son of James Joseph and Sarah Jane (Weinstein) Miller.
  On December 19, 1980, Robert was united in marriage to Joyce Carol Neal in Gravois Mills, Missouri.
  Robert was a heavy equipment operator and was instrumental in the construction of several dams and highways in the area, including Lake Jacomo.
  He was a former member of the Elks Club in Laurie, Missouri. He was a proud member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local #101.
  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons Buddy Horton and Craig Horton; and two brothers Dick Miller and George Miller.
  He is survived by his wife Joyce of the home; three sons Brent (and Sherry) Miller of Grandview; Nick (and Teresa)Miller ofWashington Courthouse, Ohio; Brad (and Kelley) Lathrop of Warrenton; four daughters Belinda (and Bob) Ragain of Sunrise Beach; Chris (and Mike) Goff of Pleasant Hill; Sarah (andMarlene Beasley)Miller of Pleasant Hill, and Jackie Mann of Louisville, Kentucky; two brothers Jerry (and Verdelle) Miller and Jack (and Dixie) Miller both of Kansas, City,Missouri; 21 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.
  Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at the funeral home with Pastor Preston Sanders of the Strasburg Baptist Church officiating.
  Music will be rendered by Hallie, Jessie and Virginia Miller, Marlene Beasley and Chris Goff. Cremation rites will be accorded at a later date.
  Memorial contributions may be made to the True Vine Ministries at the Strasburg Baptist Church and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements by Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong, Pleasant Hill.

Allen Benjamin Niblack (Buss), 89, of Lee’s Summit, passed away at his home May 30, 2010.
  Allen was born to James (Jake) Allen Niblack and Flay (Hamilton) Niblack on January 1, 1921, in ElMonte, Calif. He was raised in Fulton, moving to Lee’s Summit in 1973.
  He retired from bridge construction in 1992 from Knutson Construction Company. He enjoyed gardening; however, beekeeping was his passion and he had many hives in the Lee’s Summit/Harrisonville areas. He shared his honey out of his home in Lee’s Summit and also from his green Ford F100 pickup at the commuter parking lot at the corner of 7 and 50 Hwys north of Pleasant Hill.
  He enjoyed visiting with everyone he met, making new life long friends and sharing stories of beekeeping and his life’s adventures.
  Allen was preceded in death by his parents, James and Flay Niblack; two brothers, Roy Niblack of Fulton and Emery Lee Niblack of Benkelman, Nebr. and two sisters, Ruth Henley and Alice Elsenrath, both of Fulton.
  He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marie of the home; two daughters, Kathy Inman and husband Lynn of Oak Grove; andMarla Jordan and husband Sam of Lee’s Summit; three grandchildren, Aron, Rob and Tara and one great grandson, Tyler; two sisters, Evelyn Robb of Eldon and Marilyn Griffith of Fulton; one brother, Bill Niblack of Woodstrok, Ill. and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
  The family appreciatd the visits from friends during Allen’s illness, and especially the Kansas City Hospice staff and their loving care and compassion.
  Services were June 3 at Langsford Funeral Home in Lee’s Summit. Interment at the Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville.
  Memorial donations may be sent to Kansas City Hospice, 9221 Ward Parkway, Suite 100, Kansas City, MO 64114.

John Warner Nicholls, 75, lifelong Cass County resident, passed away May 22, 2010 at Camden Health Center in Harrisonville.
  He was born August 23, 1934 in Pleasant Hill, the son of Robert Earl and Hazel (Warner) Nicholls. He attended Plum Grove School and graduated from Pleasant Hill High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army until his honorable discharge on February 28, 1963.
  John owned and operated a farm in Pleasant Hill, retiring in 1985.
  He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Earl and Hazel (Warner) Nicholls; one sister, Earlene Smith.
  He is survived by one son, Andy Nicholls and wife Debra of Pleasant Hill; one daughter, Taylene Faulkenberry and husband Terry of Pleasant Hill; one brother, William Nicholls of Harrisonville; one sister, Zorene Bishop of Tucson, Ariz.; four grandchildren and one great grandchild, other relatives and many friends.
  Graveside services were held May 26, 2010, at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery with Seventy Becky Carlile officiating.
  Military honors wee presented by Missouri Military Honors Team from VFW Post #3118 o Pleasant Hill.
  Arrangements by Wallace Funeral Home.

Leota Schwab, 88, of Lee’s Summit, formerly of Pleasant Hill, passed away May 22, 2010 at her home.
  She was born November 10, 1921 in Maryville, the daughter of Charles Henry and Edith (Deshazer) Wilson.
  Leota attended school in Drexel, but during her sophomore year, her father, Charles Wilson, passed away and her mother and older sister had to go to work to help support the family. Leota stayed home to care for her four siblings.
  After helping care for her brothers and sister, Leota went to work in retail sales for various department stores.
  On September 14, 1946, she married Eugene Schwab in Kansas City, Kans. Leota and Eugene lived in several different towns, all in connection with Eugene’s job with the railroad.
  In 1952 they bought one of the first houses built on Country Club Drive in Pleasant Hill where they lived until 1963 when Eugene was transferred to Lee’s Summit.
  In 1971, the couple moved to Sedalia where they lived until 1980 when they moved back to Lee’s Summit. After moving back to Lee’s Summit, Leota became a care giver for both her mother, Edith Wilson and her sister, Betty Boucher.
  Leota was a member of the Fist Christian Church of Sedalia.
  She was preceded in death by her infant daughter, Pamela Linn Schwab; her parents, Charles H. and Edith Wilson; four brothers, Kenneth Wilson, Theodore Wilson, Wallace Wilson and Charles Wilson, Jr.; two sisters, Georgia Anderson and Betty Boucher.
  She is survived by her husband, Eugene O. Schwab of the home, three sisters-in-law, Dorothy Wilson of Lee’s Summit; Ruth Vaughn of Independence and Marcelle Schwab of Raymore; numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.
  Funeral services were held May 27, 2010 at the Wallace Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill with Rev. Kent Deubner officiating.
  Casket bearers were Charles Anderson, John Anderson, Donnie Wilson, Charles Wagner, Richard Vaughn and Donald Vaughn.
  Burial in West Union Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Kansas City Hospice.
  Arrangements were under the direction of the Wallace Funeral Home.

Billy Bob “Bill” Kennedy, 78, lifetime Pleasant Hill resident, departed this life onMay 16, 2010 at his home. He was born September 18, 1931 in Kansas City. He was the son of Robert C. and Marguerite Mary (Strack) Kennedy.
  Bill attended school and graduated from the Pleasant Hill High School in 1950. He served in the United States Navy from March 6, 1951 until Feb. 8, 1955. He was aboard the USS Noble during the Korean Conflict. After his honorable discharge he returned to Pleasant Hill. On June 8, 1957 Bill married Jessie Marie Johnson at the farm home of Rev. Joe Brewster.
  Bill retired from the Ford Motor Company, where he was a pipe fitter and member of the U.A.W. He was an avid bowler, and a member of the UMBC of Greater Kansas City.
  He was a member of the Raymore Christian Church, Disciples of Christ and had served as an Elder in both Pleasant Hill and Raymore.
  He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Marguerite Kennedy.
  Bill is survived by his wife, of the home; one son, Robert G. Kennedy of Bolivar; three daughters, Cheri L. Younce, Patty M. Huffman and Mary M.Wienel, all of PleasantHill; one sister, Janice Kay Pace of Lee’s Summit; 13 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, one great great granddaughter, other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services were held May 20, 2010 at the Wallace Funeral Home  with Rev. Tony Reynolds and Rev. Brett Winters officiating.
  Casket bearers were Thomas Scott Younce, Billy Johnson, Tim Younce, Christopher Blake, Joey Huffman, Jeremy Huffman and Jason Kennedy.
  Burial was in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery with military honors provided by Missouri Military Funeral Honors Team from V.F.W. Post #3118 of Pleasant Hill.
  Memorials may be made to Crossroads Hospice.

Willa Jean (Lowry) Noland, 54, departed this life on May 13, 2010 at ABC Health Center in Harrisonville.
  She was born September 23, 1955 in Harrisonville, the daughter of Herbert Kyle and Willetta (Garrison) Lowry.
  Willa grew up in a family with four brothers and three sisters, where love for each other was in abundance. In fact, after Willa started dating, it soon became plain to the boys who asked her out that they should be prepared to take along her younger siblings along, or they wouldn’t be taking Willa anywhere.
  Willa held several jobs during her lifetime. She had been a local country music singer and had performed, among other places, at the J Bar H Cafe in Pleasant Hill. She had been a newspaper delivery person and had worked for the Internal Revenue Service as a tax examiner.
  She also provided babysitting services. It was her babysitting that led her to accept a job from a woman to care of her infant daughter for what was supposed to be one day. That one day turned into almost a year as the mother of the little girl didn’t come back. Willa loved and nurtured the child and thought she had finally realized her dream of becoming a “mother” when, with just one day left by, in which to reclaim the child, the birth mother reappeared and took the little girl away. It was an excruciatingly painful ordeal for Willa from which she never fully recovered.
  Although Willa never achieved her passion to become a mother, she was a compassionate and loving aunt to her many nieces and nephews and they were devoted to her.
  In recent years, Willa worked at Cassco in Harrisonville and attended the Open Door full Gospel Church in Pleasant Hill.
  She was preceded in death by her husband Mark Noland and her father Herbert K. Lowry.
  She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Willetta Lowry of Pleasant Hill; four brothers, Richard Ruby-Lowry, Roger Lowry and Timothy Lowry, all of Pleasant Hill; and Curt Lowry of Lee’s Summit; three sisters, PatriciaWheeldon- Mayfield, Linda Slevin and Amy King, all of Pleasant Hill; many loving nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.
  Services were May 18, 2010 at the Wallace Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill with Pastor Dennis Gulley and Pastor Roger Nichols officiating.
  Burial was in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
  Casket bearers were Nick Wheeldon,Kyle Lowry,David Kiger, Danny Kiger, T. J. Nicols and Terry Nichols, Sr.
  Honorary bearers were David Wheeldon, Max Chao, Jr. and Michael Mayabb.
  Contributions may be made to Crossroads Hospice.

Howard Clayton “Clay” Jones Jr., of Las Vegas, Nevada, formerly of Raytown, passed away March 24, 2010.
  He was born March 7, 1950 in McComb, Mississippi. He was the son of Howard Clayton Jones, Sr. and Johnie Louise (Kennedy) Jones. The family moved to the Raytown area when Clay was six years old.
  Clay had a passion for music. He received his first drum set and went on to win seven State Championships. He attended the Conservatory of Music at UMKC and played for several well known singers and bands which included The Mandrell Sisters, Otis Brown, The Drifters, as well as countless others. During this time he became known professionally as “Casey Jones” and played locally in the Kansas City area with The Fabulous Nomads, The Mandrells and numerous acts that followed.
  Clay was in the U.S. Army and served as an Artillery Sergeant from 1973 to 1975. He was united in marriage with Joyce Mullins. He worked in the electrical industry as a lighting specialist for over 40 years. He later relocated to Las Vegas and continued to work in the lighting business.
  He was preceded in death by his mother and one brother, Miles David Jones.
  He is survived by his father of Pleasant Hill; one son, James Jones, Belton; two daughters, Robin Thompson of Raymore and Kaylin Crain of Lee’s Summit; one brother, Mark Robert Jones and wife, Berneda of Pleasant Hill; six grandchildren and other relatives and friends. Cremation.
  Services were held May 8, 2010 at the Wallace Funeral Home.
  Chaplain Jeffrey S. Mercer was officiating clergy with Military Honors provided by Missouri Military Funeral Honors Team from Post #3118 of Pleasant Hill.
  Arrangements were by Wallace Funeral Home of Pleasant Hill.

Abigail “Abby” Lucille Espinoza, 14, of Raymore, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 23, 2010 at her home in Raymore.
  She was born July 3, 1995 in Phoenix, Arizona, the daughter of Henry and Michelle Dawn (Huisman) Espinoza.
  Abby was an outgoing and vibrant 8th grader at the Raymore- Peculiar Middle School.
  She was involved at the Abundant Life Baptist Church where she was baptized on April 18.
  Her hobbies included bowling, downloading from ITunes, reading, choir, forensics-a drama club at the middle school, listening to music or watching movies on her I-Pod, Face booking, texting thousands of times in a month, eating the four basic food groups: chips, candy, popcorn, cookies, activities with her youth group at church, at the Core facility; and she was looking forward to getting her driver’s permit and going to church summer camp in June or July.
  She also participated in track, but she didn't continue because it involved exercise and time away from her closest friends.
  She was a serious independent young woman who enjoyed her family and family functions. She enjoyed large gatherings, being goofy and making her friends laugh.
  She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather Alberto Espinoza, Sr.
  She is survived by her parents Henry and Michelle, her brother Jacob and sister Sarah, all of the home; paternal grandmother Adelaida Espinoza of Long Beach, Calif.; maternal grandmother Charlotte Huisman of Las Vegas, Nev.; one uncle Albert Espinoza, Jr. of Long Beach; two aunts, Gladys Drake of Mesa, Ariz., and Rebeca Campbell of Long Beach; other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at the Abundant Life Baptist Church in Lee’s Summit, 414 SW Persels Road. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday at the church.
  Pastor Jernigan Schwent, youth minister of the church, will officiate. Burial will be in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
  Casket bearers are Eric Campbell, Evan Chiarelli, Albert Espinoza III, Lawrence Huisman, Jerry Lees and Jason McCamish.
  Memorial contributions may be made to the Abundant Life Baptist Church Youth Camp-Scholarship Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome. com
  Arrangements were under the direction of the www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com, 203 N. Armstrong, Pleasant Hill, StanleyDickeyFH@aol.com

Gladys Ruth Parris departed this life on March 16, 2010 at the Pleasant Hill Health and Rehabilitation Center.
  She was born October 16, 1917 in Hailey, Idaho, the daughter of Herbert Earl and Hester Frances (Smith) Duffy.
  At age 5, after the death of her mother, Ruth was sent to live with her grandmother in California. She graduated high school in San Jose, Calif. and then attended San Jose State College.
  On August 28, 1940, in Reno, Nevada, Ruth married Parlie L. Parris, a young man from Pleasant Hill, who had come to California in the late 1930s depression era to find work.
  Ruth and Parlie made their home in the San Francisco area, but Parlie never lost his desire to “come back home” to Pleasant Hill. In 1944 the Parris family moved back to the Pleasant Hill area.
  The most important thing to Ruth was being a good wife, loving mother and homemaker. She was a member of the United Methodist Church and the Women’s Federated Club, both of Pleasant Hill.
  She was preceded in death by her husband, Parlie L. Parris on February 4, 1979; her parents, Herbert Earl Duffy on Feb. 10, 1966, and Hester Frances Duffy on Dec. 25, 1922; one daughter, Sharon Darlene Tieman on March 6, 2006; three brothers, George and Roger Duffy and an infant brother, Herbert Earl, and one sister, Jean Vernon.
  Ruth is survived by two sons, Earl Parris and wife Janice of Lexington; Jim Parris and wife Jackie of Lee’s Summit and one sister, Frances Daybell of St. George, Utah; six grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
  Graveside services were held March 19, 2010 at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Rev. Carl Knapp officiated. Arrangements by Wallace Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.

Lola Irene Campbell, 94, of Pleasant Hill, departed this life Saturday, March 13, 2010 at the Pleasant Hill Health & Rehabilitation Center.
  She was born September 18, 1915 in Greeley, Missouri, the daughter of William and Melvina (Ritchie) McDaniel.
  She was married to Marshall Alva Campbell on June 16, 1936, in Ellington, Missouri. Her husband preceded her in death on August 16, 1998.
  Lola and Marshall “Alva” owned and operated the Campbell Drug Store in downtown Pleasant Hill for over 45 years.
  She was an active member of Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church for 66 years.
  She was also a charter member of the Pleasant Hill Lioness Club, a member of Pleasant Hill Historical Society, and a 50-year member of the Ivy Leaf Chapter #215 O.E.S.
  She was a Past President of the Cancer Society of Cass County and a cancer survivor for over 50 years, and was active with the Salvation Army, the United Way and Meals on Wheels.
  Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by three brothers Walter “Buddy” McDaniel, Leroy “Boots” Williamson and Richard “Junior”Williamson and a sister Wilma Wisdom.
  She is survived by her daughters, Irene Smith of Des Moines, Iowa, and Ruth A. Ballard of the home; four grandchildren, Marsha Krummel and Stan of Spring Hill, Kansas; Greg Smith and Dee of Clive, Iowa; Stephanie Clark and Sean of Henderson, Nevada, and Nancy Miller and Aaron of Pleasant Hill; eight greatgrandchildren Rachel Krummel, Valerie Krummel, Ryan Smith, Allison Smith, Ciara Clark, Caelan Clark, Evan Miller and Brett Miller; one sister Opal Galbreth of St. Louis; two brothers Harold Williamson of St. Louis and Howard Williamson of Bunker, Mo; other relatives and friends.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church building fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Funeral services were March 16, 2010 at the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill. Rev. Carl Knapp officiated. Burial in Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
  Casket bearers were Greg Smith, Ryan Smith, Caelan Clark, Evan Miller, Stan Krummel, Aaron Miller, Justin Kanatzar and Robert Lee Crawford.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Funeral rrangements were under the direction of the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong, Pleasant Hill.

Burl Lee Henson, 89, of Kingsville, passed away March 5, 2010 at Pleasant Hill Health & Rehabilitation Center.
  Burl was born April 18, 1920 in Long Lane,Missouri, son of James and Annie (Butts) Henson.
  He graduated from high school in Buffalo, Missouri and received a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from the University ofMissouri at Columbia, followed by post graduate work at Oklahoma State University.
  He was united in marriage to Olive Noma Kahler on October 11, 1941 in Columbia. He served in the United States Army during World War II.
  Burl taught Vocational Agriculture, and worked with the FFA Chapters, at three high schools in Oklahoma for six years.
  He started the local fair, named Loyal’s Little Royal, prior to the couple purchasing their farm near Kingsville. During the mid-1950s, he taught science and was the coach at LaTour, Missouri high school, where he was widely known and loved, in part due to the quality and successes of the school’s basketball teams.
  Burl was a hard-driven and hard-working grain, dairy farmer and cattleman.
  He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Holden and Holden Masonic Lodge #262 AF & AM. He was also an active member of the National Farmers Organization and The Angus Association.
  Burl was preceded in death by his wife, Noma on February 2, 2008; a grandson, Jody Henson; four brothers: twin Buel, Burnest, Gail, and Guy Henson; and two sisters: Gurley Henson and Goldie Henson.
  Survivors include a daughter, Candice Alexander and husband, Harold Robert of Overland Park, Kans.; two sons: Don Henson and wife, Brenda of Holden and David Henson and wife, Marilyn Allpress of Hilton Head Island, S.C.; seven grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
  Funeral services were March 9, 2010 at Williams Funeral Chapel in Holden with Dr. Darrell Woods officiating.
  Burial was in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery with Military Graveside Honors by Holden Veterans of Foreign Wars, Memorial Post #5844 andMunday-Hancock Post #90 of the American Legion.
  Pallbearers were be Jeff Henson, Paul Robert Alexander, Micah Ray Alexander, Ted VanMeter, P. D. Duncan and Gary Hackett.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the First Baptist Church in Holden.
  Online condolences may be left at www.williamsfuneralchapel.net

Ina Mae Davis Cauthon, 83, of Pleasant Hill, passed away February 27, 2010 at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
  She was born on December 13, 1926 in Nevada, Missouri to Marvin and Nell V. (Flewelling) Roof. Ina was the only child. Her childhood was spend in Nevada where she graduated from Walker High School in 1944.
  On February 28, 1948, Ina married Lloyd Henry Davis in Kansas City. The Davis family made their home in Kansas City, Kans.Mr. Davis passed away in 1986.
  On January 1, 1989, Ina married Olin B. “Dick” Cauthon in Pleasant Hill. They lived in Pleasant Hill for seven years until Dick passed away on May 12, 1996.
  Ina continued to live in the family home in Pleasant Hill until her death. Ina worked for J. C. Penney’s Distribution Center in the returns department, retiring in 1996.
  She was a member of the Open Door full Gospel Church of Pleasant Hill and was a former member of the American legion Auxiliary in Kansas City, Kansas.
  In addition to both of her husbands, Ina was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Nell Roof.
  She is survived by two sons, Larral L. Davis and Darryl Z. Davis, both of Kansas City, Kans.; one daughter, Rita Devore of Pleasant Hill; 12 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and one great great grandson, other relatives and many friends.
  Memorial services were held Saturday,March 6 at the Open Door Full Gospel Church of Pleasant Hill with Rev. Dennis Gulley officiating.
  Burial was in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Cremation was under the direction of the Wallace Funeral Home.

Gabriella Marie Miller, infant daughter of Jeremy M. Miller and Amanda M. Newell, Lee’s Summit, passed away March 3, 2010 at Truman Medical Center, Lakewood.
  She was preceded in death by her paternal great grandfather, Billy F. Ash; maternal great grandfathers, Jim Newell and Leo Luebbert.
  Gabriella is survived by her parents, her paternal grandparents, Patricia Ann (Ash) Miller of Lee’s Summit and Jack Eugene Miller of Quincy, Ill.; her maternal grandparents, Annetta Newell of Lee’s Summit and Robert Newell and wife Cheri of Belton; her great grandmothers, Anna Ash of Lee’s Summit, Violet Newell of Lansing, Kans. and Celia Luebbert of Jefferson, City and uncles, Nicholas Miller of Lee’s Summit and Mark Newell of Grain Valley.
  Graveside services were held March 8 at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Jeremy Miller or Amanda Newell in care of the Wallace Funeral Home, 422 N. Lake Street, Pleasant Hill, MO 64080.

Mark Clayton King, 56, of Pleasant Hill, Mark died on February 22, 2010.
  He was born October 12, 1953 in St. Louis, the son of Jefferson Clayton and Beatrice (Gunn) King.
  Mark had fond childhood memories of their family living in St. Charles, in the home his father built.
  At around age 10, his parents divorced and he and his brothers lived in Cuba, Missouri with their Aunt Rosie and her family for a short while before moving with their father to the Gerster, Missouri. community.
  Mark attended Weaubleau School from the fifth grade until his graduation in 1971. During his teen years, Mark worked with his father and Uncle David in construction and roofing.
  In November of 1971, Mark began dating Denise Glyne Griffith and by Christmas of 1971, they were promised to each other to be married.
  In January 1972, Mark began working for Beeline, owned by Blanton Hammond in Kansas City. He picked up the trade of wheel alignment and frame straightening on over the road trucks and cars. During this time Mark rode the Continental Trailways bus home on weekends to see his family and Denise. This continued until June 8, 1974 when Mark and Denise were married at the Pomme De Terre Southern Baptist Church in Pittsburg, Missouri.
  In 1990, Blanton sold his business to Kansas City Freightliner, and Mark continued working for them until his unexpected death.
  Before moving to Cass County, Mark and Denise lived in the Independence area, and Mark took up the sport of bowling at Sterling Lanes as his hobby.
  In 1986, they moved to Cass County. He continued bowling at Westchester Lanes in Harrisonville and started bowling in the ABC National Tournament in various states.
  Mark was proud to receive a ring to commemorate his 800 series game. He had always said he’d probably bowl an 800 series before he bowled a 300 game, and he did.
  He was preceded in death by his parents.
  He is survived by his wife, Denise King of the home; three children, Shannon King, Julia Poe and husband Tim, all of Harrisonville, Missouri and Gary King and Sarah Gentry, Clinton; three grandchildren, Brianna, Austin and Daryan; two brothers, Matt King, Jenks, Okla. and Jim King, Gerster, Mo.; a sister, Bonnie King, Goodland, Kan.; other relatives and many friends.
  Mark was a wonderful husband, father, papa, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He was always willing to help someone in need and expected nothing in return.
  One word will always remind us of Mark King: BOOMCHUCKALUCKY!
  Funeral services were held February 27, 2010 at the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, with cremation following the service. Gary King and Blanton Hammond officiated.
  To view the video tribute or send the family online condolences, please visit www.dickeyfh.com. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville.

George William Ruth, 96, of Greenwood, departed this life February 20, 2010 at the Pleasant Hill Health & Rehabilitation Center.
  He was born Saturday, December 6, 1913 in Bauer, Iowa, the son of William C. and Gertrude G. (Ohnemus) Ruth. George married Mary Margaret Groll on June 18, 1938in Kansas City. She preceded him in death on July 23, 1991.
  Following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, he was sent to Hawaii as a civilian naval employee where he helped construct and install a radar tower on the side of a volcano on the island of Oahu.
  On his return, he went to work for Pratt and Whitney as vertical lathe operator. Later he went to work for Bendix & Westinghouse, then to Chevrolet as a portable tool repairman. He was a member of St. Bridget Catholic Church.
  Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother Carl H. Ruth and a sister Mary G. Whitte.
  He is survived by two sons and daughter-in-laws Lance and Linda Ruth, andWilliam and Patty Ruth, all of Greenwood; 10 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; a sister Betty J. Williams of Malakoff, Texas; other relatives and friends.
  Funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at St. Bridget Catholic Church, Pleasant Hill. Monsignor RobertMurphy and Deacon Gary Kappler will officiate. Interment will be in the Greenwood Cemetery.
  Casket bearers will be Brad Gampper, David Ruth, Joshua Ruth, Danny Ware, Bill Williams and Chris Williams.
  Visitation will be held 9 a.m. until service time Wednesday at the church. Memorial contributions are suggested to the St. Bridget Catholic Church Building Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements by Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong, Pleasant Hill.

Rosalie (Chipley) Pfaff, 96, of Pleasant Hill, passed away February 14, 2010 at Pleasant Hill Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was born July 27, 1913 in Raymore, the daughter of Charles Pleasant and Helena Winifred (Whitley) Chipley.
  The Chipley family moved from Raymore to Pleasant Hill in 1918 when Rosalie was five years old. Rosalie attended school in Pleasant Hill and spent 91 years as a Pleasant Hill resident.
  OnMarch 3, 1934, Rosalie married Edward L. “Eddie” Pfaff in Independence. To this union three children were born. Eddie passed away on September 21, 1990, and Rosalie continued to make her home in Pleasant Hill.
  Rosalie was manager of the electronic department at Walmart for 10 years, retiring in 1985. She was a member of the Bertha Rebecca Lodge #31 in Pleasant Hill and held many offices in this organization.
  She was a former chairperson for the Democratic Committee of Cass County and a lifelong member of the Assembly of God Church.
  Besides her husband, Rosalie was preceded in death by one son, LaRoy “Lee” Pfaff on September 12, 2997; one daughter, Judith Marie Hoover on August 6, 2005; her parents, Charles Chipley on November 14, 1963 and Helena Chipley on October 29, 1963; a brother, Stanley Chipley; two sisters, Thelma Dyke on April 2, 1937, and EvaWendell on December 6, 1984 and one grandson, Michael Wayne Ash on June 17, 2001.
  She is survived by one daughter, Anna Ash of Lee’s Summit; two sisters, Olean Brown of Lincoln, Mo., ad Lucille Shaw of Pleasant Hill; eight grandchildren, many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
  Funeral services were February 17, 2010 at the Wallace Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill with Bill Cotton officiating. Burial in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
  Casket bearers were Gene Arnold, Michael Hoover, Jeremy Miller, John Ash, Gabe Arnold and Nick Miller.

Karl Frederick Althauser , 96, of Pleasant Hill, died on February 13, 2010 at the Lee’s Summit Medical Center in Lee’s Summit.
  He was born July 30, 1913 in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, the son of William and Emma (McClain) Althauser. Karl spent his younger years in Upper Sandusky, Ohio and graduated Upper Sandusky High School.
  On November 3, 1935 he married Jennie Margaret Bacon in Sycamore, Ohio. Karl and Jennie lived in Boonville, for many years where Karl served as a city council member, was a member of the Masonic Lodge and a member of the United Methodist Church. He had been a personnel and purchasing manager for the Mc- Graw Edison Company, retiring in 1983.
  Karl had been a resident of Pleasant Hill since 2003, residing with his son and daughter-in-law, Nick and Debbie Althauser.
  He was preceded in death by his wife, Jennie Margaret Bacon Althauser; his parents, William and Emma Althauser, one son, Timothy Althauser; one brother, Ray Althauser and two sisters, Alice Christman and Dorothy Althauser.
  Karl is survived by two sons, Donald Karl Althauser of Hermann and Nicholas James (Nick) Althauser of Pleasant Hill; one sister, Ruby Beman of Phoenix, AZ; seven grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
  Cremation under the direction of the Wallace Funeral Home. No services are scheduled.

Jean C. Carswell, 87, of Greenwood, departed this life January 31, 2010, at her home.
  Funeral services are pending under the direction of the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home.
  A complete obituary will be posted in next week’s edition of the Pleasant Hill Times and online at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements by Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong, Pleasant Hill.

John V. “Jack” Herrick Jr., 81, Kansas City, formerly of Pleasant Hill, passed away January 25, 2010. Jack was born November 25, 1928 at Research Hospital in Kansas City.
  He survived severe childhood polio and being paralyzed and went on to play football, baseball and basketball at Pleasant Hill High School.
  He was in Scouts and was an Eagle Scout. He graduated from the University of Mortuary Science, Inc., in Kansas City, Kansas in 1948.
  During his career, he worked for D. W. Newcomers and Sons and George C. Carson and Sons Funeral Home until his retirement in 1990.
  Jack was a long time member and past president of the Northland Optimist Club of Kansas City. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and boating.
  Later in life, he enjoyed sitting on the front porch of the home he owned since 1957 and visiting with all of the neighbors and any passers by.
  Jack was preceded in death by his parents, John Virgil Herrick Sr. and Freda M. (Hoadley) Herrick.
  Survivors include his wife Crystal L. Herrick; son Vance J. Herrick and his wife Yvonne and his brothers, Duane and Lyle Herrick.
  Arrangements by White Chapel Funeral Home.

Robert Bronaugh Benson, 86, of Columbia, Missouri passed away on January 21, 2010, at South Hampton Place.
  Services will be held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at Memorial Funeral Home. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until time of services at the funeral home.
  Robert was born May 16, 1923 in Pleasant Hill, Missouri to Herbert and Sarah Bronaugh Benson and they preceded him in death. He was married on May 8, 1954 to Dorothy A. Durick.
  He was owner and partner with George B. Benson (deceased) of Benson Building Materials and Benson Lumber Company. They had lumber yards in the State of Missouri, including the one in Columbia on Business Loop 70 as well as yards in Boonville, Eldon, Pleasant Hill, Belton, Garden City and Odessa, as well as operating Osage Building Materials in Sedalia.
  Robert grew up in Pleasant Hill where he played football and then attended the University of Kansas City in 1942 until World War II began.
  He served in the U.S. Army for three years. He landed in Normandy on Utah Beach on D-Day, in the third section of the First Wave to land.
  He wrote three booklets of his Army days which he gave to members of his company and to libraries and historical societies.
  He was a member of the Mid-Missouri Development Council, was on the Board of the Southwestern Lumbermen’s Association and a member of the American Forestry Association, National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Native Sons of Kansas City.
  In Columbia, Robert was a member of First Presbyterian Church and the Country Club of Missouri.
  He graduated from the University of Missouri in 1951 with a Bachelors Degree in History and Economics.
  Robert is survived by his wife of 55 years, Dorothy; special friends Lynn Crews and her husband Scott and several nieces and nephews.
  Memorial contributions can be made to a charity of your choice.

Edna Lucille Sudduth, 87, of Pleasant Hill, died January 20, 2010, surrounded by her family, at her son’s home in Pleasant Hill.
  She was born December 3, 1922 in Richmond, Kan., the daughter of James M. and Mamie (Coleman) Miller.
  On February 10, 1942, she was united in marriage to Dewey Derrelle Sudduth in Independence. Within two weeks, he was shipped out with the Army to fight in WWII and did not return for four years. He preceded her in death on January 27, 1993.
  Lucille was a homemaker and mother until going to work for the Bendix Corporation in 1958, retiring in 1981.
  She enjoyed knitting and crocheting. She began playing the organ and piano for church services at the age of ten. She played for more than 50 weddings and many funerals. She gave piano lessons until she went to work for Bendix.
  She was a member of the Community of Christ Church in Pleasant Hill where she served in many capacities, especially with the music.
  She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandkids and greatgrandkids. In recent years she loved going to McDonald’s every day and having coffee with friends. McDonald’s employees enjoyed all of the “Monkey Bread” she baked for them.
  Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by an infant son Charles Steven. Sudduth, one brother Art Miller and her sister Elnora Ingram.
  She is survived by two sons, D. Gilbert (Gib) Sudduth and Leta of Pleasant Hill, and Roger L. Sudduth and Janet of Gulf Shores, Ala; three brothers, Gene Miller and Eva of Raymore; R. J. Miller and Ruth of Hutchison, Kan., and Cecil Miller and Nelda of Raymore; five grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.
  Funeral services were January 25, 2010 at the Community of Christ Church in Pleasant Hill. Evangelist Don Carlile, minister of the church, officiated.
  Gary Smith sang. Burial in Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
  Casket bearers were Doug Ingram, Jim Ingram, Greg Miller, Larry Miller, Russell Miller and Ted Vernon.
  Honorary casket bearers were Dale Gehmann, Gene Miller, Mark Miller, Scott Miller, Terry Miller, Merle Nunemaker and Rick Thompson.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Community of Christ Church or Crossroads Hospice and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com

Tommy Eugene Slover, 72, of Butler, died, January 22, 2010 at his home in Butler surrounded by his family.
  He was born December 31, 1937 in Excelsior Springs, the son of Orville C. and Stella L. (Turner) Slover.
  On September 14, 1956, he was united in marriage to Tamea J. Swartz in Miami, Okla. She preceded him in death on January 25, 2004.
  Tom had been a truck driver for Kaw Transportation; later he was an auto part sales manager for 25 years until his retirement.
  His favorite pastime was music, and he played in many bands throughout his life. He loved to spend time with his family and friends; especially all of his grandchildren.
  Besides his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by one sister, Pat Brown.
  He is survived by four daughters, Durinda Jones of Peculiar; Deniene Wingard and Tim of Appleton City; Devian Slover of the home, Deiedra Curnutt and Mark of Belton; six grandchildren, Angie Lesmeister, Adam (and GariAnna) Lesmeister, Jacob Wingard, Caleb Martin, Becky Curnutt and Austin Curnutt; four great grandchildren, Jeremiah Boyle, Matthew Boyle, Hollie Lesmeister and Brice Lesmeister; four brothers Don Slover and Loretta of Raymore; Ronnie Slover and Mary Pat of Adrian; Jerry Slover and Peggy of Belton, andMike Slover and Joyce of Peculiar; one sister Clorecia Overstreet and Jay of Raymore; numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
  Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at the funeral home.
  Rev. Donald Wratney of the Rock Brook Church, Belton will officiate. Burial in the Raymore Cemetery.
  Casket bearers are Mark Curnutt, Adam Lesmeister, Justin Overstreet, Jason Slover, Parrish Slover, Bruce Smith, Steve Webb and Robert Welton.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to Heartland Hospice of Butler or the American Cancer Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements by Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong, Pleasant Hill, Missouri 64080 (816) 540-5550 StanleyDickeyFH@aol.com.

Carol Ann Karg, 68, of Pleasant Hill, departed this life on January 21, 2010 at the Cass Medical Center, Harrisonville.
  She was born January 17, 1942 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, the fifth of seven children born to Clifford A. and Esta E. (Raffurty) Karg.
  When Carol Ann was born, she was a healthy, happy baby with dark black hair and was active and quick to learn. She also had an inquisitive mind and loved red dresses.
  When she was about two and a half years old, she contacted polio and became a sick little girl.
  She had high fevers and often went into convulsions.
  She spent time in the hospital in Kansas City. At that time her father was serving somewhere in the Pacific during World War II.
  As Carol Ann required full time care, Grandmother Elizabeth “Lizzy” Raffurty stayed with the family and cared for Ronnie, who was an infant.
  Due to her mother’s constant efforts, Carol Ann learned to walk again and to write with her left hand.
  She started first grade at Center Point school north of Pleasant Hill and graduated from the Pleasant Hill High School in 1961.
  She was employed caring for others and making their lives easier.
  She visited her Aunt Dorothy Raffurty every day, while she was at Broadway Village and visited with other patients.
  She traveled to many scenic sites in the United States with her parents.
  She did hand work, making quilts, pillow cases and embroidery and loved to read her Bible and church books. She was a member of the Strasburg Baptist Church.
  She was preceded in death by both of her parents, two sisters, Betty Jean and Mary Ellen and one brother Charles Alvin, who all died as infants.
  She is survived by three brothers and their wives, Jim and Ginger Karg of Gridley, Calif., Ron and Margie Karg of Pleasant Hill; and Paul and Laura Karg of Babson Park, Fla.
  Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Thursday, January 28, 2010 at the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill.
  Visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. until service time Thursday at the funeral home.
  Bill Cotton, deacon of Big Creek Baptist Church will officiate. Burial will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Casket bearers are Gene Hon, David Hughes, Buddy Karg, Greg Karg and Larry Karg.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Strasburg Baptist church and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements were under the direction of the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong, Pleasant Hill, Missouri 64080.

Stephen G. Spruill, 67, of Pleasant Hill, departed this life on January 16, 2010, at home after a long battle with cancer.
  He was born May 20, 1942 in Glendale, Calif., the son of Lee and Loretta (Link) Spruill.
  Steve was raised in Kansas City and graduated from St. Peter Grade School, Rockhurst High School, and Rockhurst College, in 1963.
  After graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy and become a Tin Can Sailor, serving in many parts of the world.
  He was a Vietnam veteran. He left the Navy with the rank of lieutenant junior grade. Steve often spoke fondly of his time in the service of his country.
  Steve entered the steel business and settled in Indianapolis where he met Cecily Holbrook, who became his wife in 1968.
  After transferring to California, they had two sons, Randall Patrick and Cameron Link. "R.P." and "Cam" were Steve's pride and joy.
  When the marriage ended, Steve came home to Kansas City.
  He turned to the lawn and garden industry.
  He met Sally Haake of Pleasant Hill and in 1981, they began their life together, tending horses, raising chickens and planting a huge garden every year.
  Steve took pride in supplying family and friends with farm fresh eggs and whatever produce was in season.
  Throughout Steve's life there was some kind of two or four- wheeled motorized rig in Steve's garage.
  A shovelhead Harley, a Solex motorbike, a Vespa scooter and a homemade gocart powered by a Yamaha motorcycle engine were just a few of his toys.
  He delivered meals to the elderly for the Pleasant Hill Meals on Wheels and was active with the Pleasant Hill VFW Post #3118.
  He helped establish the Veterans’ Memorials at the Pleasant Hill Cemetery and in downtown Pleasant Hill.
  Steve was proud of our men and women in uniform, past and present, and spoke of them and prayed for them often.
  Steve had definite opinions on many subjects and was always eager to share them with family, friends and on the Letters page of The Kansas City Star.
  Steve was a member of St. Bridget Catholic Church, the USS McCaffery Shipmates Assn., the Mustang Motorcycle Club of America and VFW Post #3118, Pleasant Hill.
  Steve was preceded in death by his parents, his step-mother, Kay Westlund Spruill, and his brother-inlaw, Carl Schilling.
  He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Sally, of the home; his sons, R.P. Spruill and Amy of Great Falls, Virginia and Cam Spruill and Libby of Fishers, Indiana; sisters, Frances S. Schilling, Lorelee Dalton and Jim of Shawnee Mission, Kansas; a brother Stanton D. Spruill and Susan of Lee’s Summit; grandchildren, Abigail, Annabelle, Leila, Zachary and Grace; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins; and his beloved dogs, Molly, Fred and Sandy.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pleasant Hill Meals on Wheels or VFW Post #3118, Pleasant Hill and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  A funeral mass was held January 22, 2010 at St. Bridget Catholic Church, Pleasant Hill with Monsignor Robert Murphy officiating.
  Interment is in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery with full military graveside honors by the VFW Post #3118 Honor Guard.
  Casket bearers were Ron Beatty, Robert Crawford, David Hamilton, Jerrall Hayes, Chris Hummel, Mike Ingram, Jim Lotspeich and Junior Ross.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements were under the direction of the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home at 203 N. Armstrong in Pleasant Hill.

Daniel R. Durham, 52, Harrisonville, died January 2, 2010. Daniel lived in Pleasant Hill from 1965 to 1975.
  He is survived by his mother, Anita Golden; three sisters, Diana Durham Hale, Davnah Durham, Darla Durham and brother, Darrell Durham and long time companion, Dawn Nelson, other relatives and friends.
  He was preceded in death by his father, Arch Durham, on February 5, 1972.
  Cremation by Marts Memorial Service.

Lawrence Lee Thomas, 74, of Peculiar, MO, passed away January 3, 2010 at his home surrounded by his loving family and friends. Larry was born and raised in Springfield,MO.
  He worked for Panhandle Eastern Pipeline Company in Kansas City for 31 years.
  Larry was a very organized, meticulous person, who “got things done.” He was a very devoted and generous husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Larry loved to help people whenever he could, especially his children and grandchildren. Given an opportunity to help anyone, he went into immediate action, without questioning or judging.
  Some called Larry the “friendliest man in town.” He never met a stranger.
  Larry pitched for several softball teams and played outfield for the Naval Reserves.
  He shared his love of sports with his children and grandchildren. He coached and wrote the newsletter for 3-2 Baseball for many years, taught 5 of his granddaughters how to pitch, helped them improve additional skills, and kept stats on every game they played. "Grandpa Larry" very seldom missed any of his grandchildren's activities, sports or otherwise, and was their biggest fan.
  Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Marjorie Thomas and brother-inlaw, Joe Highfill.
  Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Carol; three children: Andrew (Diann) Thomas, Jennifer (Roger) Carter and Bret (Kelly) Thomas; nine grandchildren: Rachel, Lauren, Mitch, Jessica, Hanna, Emily, Katie, Donovan and Avery; two step-grandchildren: Kelly and Eric; a step-great grandchild, Kimberly; twin brother, Jerry (Darlene); brothers: Bill (Janice) and Bob (Chris); and sister, Ann.
  The funeral service was held on Thursday, Jan 7th, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Lee’s Summit, MO.
  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Cancer Society or Northcare Hospice.
  Larry's presence will be greatly missed by the many lives he touched.

Orvil Lee Grogger, 84 of Greenwood departed this life January 12, 2010 at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Home in Belton. He was born April 18, 1925 in Kansas City, the son of Lee Overton and Mildred F. (Scott) Grogger.
  Before leaving to serve his country in World War II, he was united in marriage with Irma.
  After returning from the Pacific Theater in 1946, Orvil and Irma continued to make their home in Kansas City area until 1951 when they moved to Greenwood.
  Mrs. Grogger passed away in 1959 and he continued to make his home in Greenwood.
  Orvil had owned and operated a landscaping company and a water hauling business in and around the Greenwood, Lone Jack and Pleasant Hill area for many years.
  He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents, Lee O. and Mildred F. Grogger and a grandson, Christopher Lee Grogger, Feb. 8. 2007.
  Orvil is survived by two daughters, Judy Richardson of Belton and Barbara Aycock of Tennessee; one grandson, Shane Grogger of Tennessee; one granddaughter, Christy Worley of Oklahoma and five great grandchildren.
  Services were held January 18, 2010 at Floral Hills Funeral Home with burial in the Floral Hills Cemetery.

William Charles Ayres, 90, died January 13, 2010, in Estes Park, Colorado with family members by his side.
  Bill, also known as W.C. or Papa, was born June 15, 1919, in Kansas City, Missouri, to William Henry and Ethyl Irene (Brown) Ayres. He graduated from Central High School in Kansas City.
  After graduating, he served in the United States Army during WWII as a Master Sergeant with the Field Artillery Mule Pack, in the Southern Philippines, and was awarded the Bronze Star for his service.
  A life-long member of the United Methodist Church, Bill lent his beautiful voice to many choirs. In 1980, he retired after 40 years with the Union Pacific Railroad. This allowed him to spend many wonderful years with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
  A barbershop quartet enthusiast, he sang with a SPEBSQSA affiliated quartet and chorus for many years.
  He also sang with the Union Pacific Railroad Quartet. He enjoyed performing as lead in the quartet when they toured the country as goodwill ambassadors for the company.
  His parents and brother, Robert R. Ayres, preceded him in death.
  Bill is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Allie Jo; three daughters, Ginny Hutchison, Barbara Ayres, and Kay Rosenthal and her husband Lowell, all Estes Park, Colorado residents; three granddaughters and their spouses, Shannon and Brian Faith, Ashli and Shane Adams, and Alicia and Colleen O’Toole; grandson Thomas Rosenthal, and great-grandchildren Will and Cash Faith and Paige Adams. Arrangements were by the Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home Funeral Home. Burial was in the Strasburg Cemetery. Casketbearers were Kevin Comer, Randy Comer, Rodney Graves, Roger Graves, Phillip Hackett and Douglas Hacket.
  Honorary casket bearers were all his nieces and nephews.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church Building Fund and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com

Mamie Helen Graham, 74, of Pleasant Hill, formerly of Columbus, Ohio, was born Monday, February 25, 1935 in Birmingham, Alabama, the daughter of Hilliard and Nancy Mae (Capleton) Taylor.
  She departed this life January 11, 2010 at the Pleasant Hill Health & Rehabilitation Center.
  Helen was a homemaker.
  She was preceded in death by her parents.
  She is survived by three sons: Christopher Graham and wife Sayuri of Belton, Missouri, David K. Graham of Kansas City and Chip Graham of Birmingham; two granddaughters: Chante Yuri Graham and Tiffany Yuuka Graham of Belton; a brother Clarence Benjamin Taylor and wife Rose of Clintonville Township, Michigan; other relatives and friends.
  Cremation has been accorded. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on January 23, 2010 at the funeral home. Reverend David Pearson will officiate. Inurnment will be held in Columbus, Ohio at a later date.
  The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements by the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home.

Gearldine Gray, 87, of Independence, departed this life January 5, 2010 at the Rehabilitation Center of Independence.
  She was born June 24, 1922 in White Cloud, Missouri, the daughter of Rollie V. and Stella J. (Nation) Davis.
  She married Farold Dean Gray in Kansas City on September 3, 1947. He preceded her in death on February 20, 2007.
  Gearldine was a homemaker and will be deeply missed by her surviving family, friends and devoted companion dog, Jackson.
  Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by one brother Clifford I. Davis and one sister Lela P. Docktor.
  She is survived by one brother Bill Davis and Barbara of Independence; one brother-in-law, Donald Docktor of Oak Grove; two nephews Donald Docktor II of Oak Grove and David Docktor and Tonna of Blue Springs; two nieces Becky Soetaert and Tommie of Lee’s Summit and Rhonda French and Brian of Lee’s Summit; four great nieces and three great nephews; other relatives and friends.
  Funeral services were January 11, 2010, at the Stanley- Dickey Funeral Home with Rev. D. Kent Deubner, minister of the Pleasant Hill First Christian Church officiating.
  Burial in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Casket bearers were George Davis, Leo (Junior) Davis, David Lee Docktor, Donald Docktor II, Brian French and Tommie Soetaert.
  Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society and may be sent in care of the funeral home.
  Online condolences may be sent to the family and the video tribute may be viewed at www.stanley-dickeyfuneralhome.com
  Arrangements by Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, Pleasant Hill.

Mary Johnson Nowell, 93, of Independence, passed away December 29, 2009, surrounded by her loving family at Carmel Hills Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center of Independence.
  Mary was born January 14, 1916, in Kingsville, to Frank Johnson and Bessie (Scrutchfield) Johnson. She lived in this area most of her life.
  On June 28, 1935, she married Sherman A. Nowell of Holden. To this union one daughter, Ruth, was born on June 5, 1936. Mary and Sherman were married for 41 years. They moved to Kansas City in July, 1946.
  Mary retired from Montgomery Ward & Co. after approximately 31 years of service. After retirement, she enjoyed traveling and doing crafts. She was active in several clubs as long as her health permitted.
  Mary was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, three sisters and one brother.
  Survivors include one daughter, Ruth Netherton and her husband James E. Netherton, Jr. of Independence; two granddaughters, Mary Ann Felts and her husband Keith Felts of Plattsburg; and Ruth Ann Kolb and her husband Kevin S. Kolb of Overland Park, KS; four grandsons, Myron Felts, Brandon Felts, Reggie Felts and ScottM. Kolb; numerous nieces and nephews, and many great friends.
  Mary was a member of the First Christian Church of Independence. Memorial services were January 3, 2010 at Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd. Burial in Floral Hills Memorial Gardens.
  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to be made in Mary's name to Crossroads Hospice, 816- 333-9200, Attention Wendy Essig or First Christian Church Disciples of Christ, 125 South Pleasant Street, Independence, MO 64050.
  The family expressed thanks to the dedicated and caring staff at Carmel Hills Healthcare and Rehab. Center, Crossroads Hospice and St. Mary's Hospital of Blue Springs.
  Condolences for the family may be left at www.dwnewcomers.com (Arr: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Floral Hills Chapel, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd, KCMO 64133 816-353-1218)

Neil Knorpp Smith, 77, departed this life January 2, 2010 at Research Medical Center in Kansas City.
  He was born December 17, 1932, the son of George Sylvester and Bessie Marie (Knorpp) Smith.
  As was the custom of the day, Neil was born at home and while the doctor tended to matters, Neil was given to his “Aunt Louie,” Lois Knorpp Grantham, who at the time was just a high school senior, to hold, thus creating a bond between the two that lasted for Neil’s entire life.
  The Smith family lived in the Kansas City area while Neil was growing up and he graduated from Center High School in 1951, but he always felt Pleasant Hill was his real home.
  Neil served his country in the United States Army from February 16, 1953 until January 12, 1955. After his military service, he returned to the Kansas City area to make his home.
  On May 20, 1957, Neil experienced a tragic loss with the death of his mother, Bessie in the Ruskin Heights tornado.
  Bessie had been out picking strawberries and was on her way home when the tornado struck. Several agonizing hours lapsed before Bessie was found. This catastrophic event had an impact on Neil for the rest of his life.
  On July 31, 1965, Neil married Tameria Tuheiava (Camelia) in Pirae, Tahiti. To this union one daughter, Vaea Yvette was born. They made their home in the Kansas City area until 2002 when Neil realized his dream of “coming home” and moved back to the Pleasant Hill area.
  Neil was self-employed taxidermist.
  He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Bessie Smith.
  He is survived by his wife Camelia Smith of the home and one daughter, Vaea Yvette Smith, also of the home; one aunt, Lois Grantham, Pleasant Hill; several cousins, including Bill Grantham, Pleasant Hill; Alice Jean Halberstadt of California and Linda Summers, Buckner, other relatives and many friends.
  Services were held January 9, 2010 with Rev. Wyatt Shanks officiating. Miliary honors were presented by Missouri Military Honors Team form VFWPost #3118 of Pleasant Hill. Burial in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
  Pallbearers were Raymond Chapin, Allen Chapin, Spencer Chapin, Ian Chapin, Jimmy Teevan and Scott Yerganian.

Shelby Jean (O’Dell) Asbury, 73, died January 3, 2010 at Research Medical Center in Kansas City.
  She was born November 15, 1936 in Lowe, West Virginia, the daughter of Fred and Lilly (Burnette) O’Dell. Shelby spent the early part of her life in West Virginia and graduated from Matoka High School in Matoka, West Virginia.
  On January 7, 1963, she married Howard “Harry” Asbury in Parrisburg,West Virginia.
  To this union three children, Mark, Denise and Jennifer were born.
  After their marriage, Shelby and Harry moved to Kansas City and lived there until 1971 when they moved to Pleasant Hill. Shelby continued to live in Pleasant Hill after Harry’s death on March 29, 2008.
  Shelby had been a clerical worker for the Internal Revenue Service for many years.
  She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard “Harry” Asbury; her parents, Fred and Lilly O’Dell; one brother, James O’Dell; one sister, Betty Gillenwater and one step daughter, Kathy Parvin.
  She is survived by one son, Mark Asbury and his wife Diana of Kansas City North; two daughters, Denise Asbury and Joe Rodriquez of Pleasant Hill and Jennifer Asbury of Independence; one stepson Wayne Asbury of Pleasant Hill and one sister, Judy Bliss of Alexandria, Virginia; 10 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.
  Services were held January 6, 2010 at Wallace Funeral Home with Rev. Kent Deubner officiating. Burial in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
  Pallbearers were Nicolas Asbury, Tyler Hansen, Ryan Asbury and Garrett Friel.