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MAY 2003 OBITUARIES

 

 



Ruth Catherine Andrews 93, of Sheridan, WY, died Wednesday, May 21, 2003 in Westview Health Care Center, Sheridan.

Ms Andrews was born October 8, 1909 in Milwaukee, Wisc. to Edward Vail and Hattie (Burge) Andrews. She attended Trowbridge Elementary School and then graduated from Bay View High School in Milwaukee with the Class of 1927. She then earned a bachelors degree in music from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL in 1931 and a masters degree in music from Iowa State University in Iowa City, Iowa in 1935.

Ms Andrews taught at Texas Women's University in Denton, TX from 1935 to 1947. From 1947 to 1952, she was the supervisor of music in the Denton, TX public schools. From 1952 to 1969, Ms Andrews taught in the Daniels Elementary School in Kerrville, Texas. She was a 50+year member of the American Association of University Women.

Ms Andrews became a member of the First Church of Christ Scientist (Christian Science Church) while living in Denton, TX, and served in many capacities such as organist, pianist, reader, and many others. Her faith was strong and her devotion complete.

Ms Andrews had a wonderful sense of humor and a laugh that will never be forgotten by those who have known her. She loved children, her family, music and life. She was extremely generous in sharing with her family and others financially. That generosity was shared also in her personal presence and musical gifts.

Ms Andrews was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Edward A. and Robert B. Andrews; her sister-in-law, Marion C. Andrews; and her niece, Jean Andrews.

She is survived by her niece, Claire L. Andrews of Kutztown, PA; a nephew, Bruce L. Andrews and his wife, Jo Lynn of Sheridan, WY along with their adult children, Amy L. Andrews of Portland, OR and Douglas B. Andrews of Sheridan, WY.

Cremation has taken place, and a private family memorial service will be held at a later date at the Chapel of the Skyline Presbyterian Church Camp near Encampment, WY. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Ms Andrews may be made to the First Church of Christ Scientist (Christian Science Church), 455 Sumner, Sheridan, WY 82801, Phone 1-307-672-2041.



Naomi Rose Harris Bissell 94, of Sheridan, WY, died Wednesday, May 14, 2003 in Westview Health Care Center, Sheridan.

Mrs. Bissell was born April 18, 1909 in Lincoln, Nebraska to Walter Ross and Emma (Kulper) Harris. The family moved to Sheridan, WY when she was 5 years old. She attended Sheridan Elementary and Sheridan High School graduating in 1928.

Naomi married Hershel Aldridge in 1928. She was then employed by Vaughn Ragsdale for 13 years. In 1946 she moved to Riverton. WY and she was employed by J. M. McDonalds Co. for 20 years. She returned to Sheridan in 1972. She married William Bissell in 1952 and they were divorced in 1966.

Mrs. Bissell was a member of BPO Does #127. She was a past president and a member of the Eagles Auxiliary #186 since 1938. She enjoyed dancing, Bowling, Knitting, and Bingo.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers, and 1 sister.

Mrs. Bissell is survived by 1 daughter, Shirley (Jerry) Higgs, of Sheridan; 2 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; and one sister, Winifred Woodhead, of Sheridan; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Mrs. Bissell will be 11:00 A. M. Saturday, May 17, 2003 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. David Duprey officiating. Burial will be in the Eagle's Section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Mrs. Bissell may be made to the Senior Citizen's Center, or the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, in care of Delphine Toner, 1st Interstate Bank, P. O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801



Katheryn Elizabeth Blakeman, 96 of Sheridan passed away at her residence on Thursday, May 15, 2003.

Katheryn was born on February 16, 1907 to Kate Elizabeth (Goodrich) and William David Roadifer in Sundance, Wyoming. She attended schools in Sundance and graduated from Sundance High School. In 1928 she married Manuel "Buck" Sipe and they had one daughter, Margaret. Buck died when Katheryn was still pregnant. In 1937 she married Jerry Merle Blakeman in Sundance and the couple made their home there until 1944 at which time they moved to Sheridan. With Jerry, Katheryn had two children; a son, Jerry and a daughter, Jean. After high school she attended normal training in Spearfish, South Dakota and taught school in Crook County for several years. Katheryn enjoyed crocheting, reading, and taking care of her grandchildren.

Mrs. Blakeman was preceded in death by her two husbands, Buck and Jerry; a daughter, Margaret Davis; and eleven brothers and sisters. She is survived by her son, Jerry Blakeman of Sheridan; her daughter, Jean Holwell of Sheridan; seven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place and private family services will be held at a later date. Kane Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

The family has requested that memorials be made in Katheryn's name to the Senior Citizens Center Building Fund or donor's choice in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, P.O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.



Arthur J. Bocek died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, May 15, 2003.

Art was born on April 26, 1945 in Sheridan. He was a lifelong Sheridan resident, being born and raised in the area. Art loved fishing, hunting and visiting with friends and family. He loved his friends and family and was always there to lend a hand when physically able.

Art was preceded in death by one son, Steven Alan Bocek; his mother, Eva Bocek; and his father, Frank Bocek. He is survived by his daughter; his three sisters, Lee Rompf of Wyarno, Connie Perry and Dale Ann Miller both of Sheridan; and one brother, Ed Bocek also of Sheridan.

Mr. Bocek has been cremated and family services are planned. Kane funeral home is handling the arrangements.

Any donations may be made in Arthur's name to the soup kitchen via First Christian Church of Sheridan.



Robert "Bob" E. Burke, 77, of Sheridan, passed away at his home on Sunday, May 11, 2003.

Bob was born on March 5, 1926, in Belle Fourche, South Dakota to Billie and Olive (Reeves) Burke. He graduated from Bennett County High School in 1943. In 1946 he married Jackie Cuddy in 1946 and they ranched in Tuthill, SD until 1956 when they and their four children moved to Keenesburg, Colorado.

Bob and Jackie were divorced in 1955. In 1973 Bob moved back to Martin and began ranching again and purchased his fathers ranch, which he ranched until recently. In 1979
he married Mary Ladely and in 1992 they purchased a retirement home here in Sheridan, where he lived until his death. Bob and Mary made many trips each year back and forth between their ranch and their home in Sheridan.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Billie and Olive Burke and his twin brother Howard Burke. He is survived by his wife Mary of Sheridan; his two sons, Jerry Burke of Alexandria, VA and Bill Burke of Greeley, CO; his two daughters, Judy Williams of Littleton, CO and Sandi Weickum of Keenesburg, CO; his stepdaughter Dahna Chaitanya of Salt Lake City, UT; his two sisters, Betty Hagler of Sanger, TX and Helen Jorgenson of Chamberlain, SD; his two brothers, Ed Burke of Gordon, NE and Ronnie Burke of Billings, MT; his eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services were held Thursday, May 22, 2003, at Lindsey Memorial Presbyterian Church in Martin, South Dakota with burial at Mount Hope Cemetery in Valentine, Nebraska. Memorials have been established to both the Martin Community Cemetery and Mount Hope Cemetery. Ziegler Funeral Home in Martin, South Dakota handled was in charge of the arrangements. Kane Funeral Home handled the local arrangements.


 


Buelah H. Bushmaker age 98 of Sheridan, WY
Died Wednesday, May 28, 2003, in Sheridan Manor
Born October 17, 1904, in Charles City, Iowa
Parents - Rufus Leander & Blanche (Jennison) Seavy

She was one of nine children. The family moved to a homestead north of Billings, MT, known then as Hoskins Basin, in 1913. She graduated from high school in Billings. On January 1, 1923, Buelah came to Sheridan to enter Nurses Training at Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County which at that time had a three-year program. Buelah's nursing career was postponed when on May 16, 1924, she married Jack Bushmaker and became the mother of seven children. In 1944, Buelah (then a Licensed Practical Nurse) and her husband started the Bushmaker Nursing Home in the family residence and continued it for seventeen years. It was the first home of this kind to be licensed in Wyoming. On December 3, 1961, their dream came true when Eventide of Sheridan, Inc., (Sheridan Manor) opened its doors. Buelah was the administrator for many years until she partially retired in 1970 and then fully retired on September 15, 1977. She enjoyed her retirement traveling, visiting her relatives and friends, church activities, lots of handiwork and just the joy of everyday living. She was a member of Holy Name Catholic Church, St. Joseph group of Catholic Women and past president of the Wyoming Nursing Home Association.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jack, three sisters, four brothers and one great grandson.
SURVIVING RELATIVES
SONS - William Bushmaker, Casper, WY
John Bushmaker, Coos Bay, OR
DAUGHTER - Darlene (Harry) Waddell, Sheridan
BROTHER - Dick Seavy, Albany, OR
11 GRANDCHILDREN
20 GREAT GRANDCHILDREN
4 GREAT GREAT GRANDCHILDREN
10 STEP GREAT GREAT GRANDCHILDREN
NUMEROUS NIECES, NEPHEWS AND COUSINS

Vigil service will be 7:00pm on Friday (June 6th) from Champion Ferries Funeral Home with Funeral Liturgy at 10:00am on Saturday from Holy Name Catholic Church with Father Ronald Stolcis officiating. Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials may benefit the Holy Name Catholic Church or Fulmer Public Library Foundation "Large Print Books".


Joseph Cherni Jr., 90, of Sheridan, passed away at his home on Sunday, May 11, 2003.

Joe was born on April 13, 1913, in Lethbridge, Alberta Canada to Joseph and Barbara (Hays) Cherni. The family moved to Wyoming when Joe was a child. He was raised on a farm on Tongue River. As a young adult he worked for many ranches around Sheridan before pursuing a career as a mechanic. He worked for Mid Continent Oil and Cook Ford Sales until he retired.

In 1944 Joe married Helen Madzia in Sheridan and their marriage was blessed with three children. He enjoyed gardening, photography, long rides through the country and visiting with family and friends.

Mr. Cherni was preceded in death by his parents; and his three brothers, Andy, Mike, and Leslie. Survivors include his wife Helen of Sheridan; his daughters Barbara and Elizabeth; his son Joseph III; his four brothers Steve, George, Rudy, and William; his sister Elsie; his grandson Robert all of Sheridan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial Services will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, May 15, 2003, at Kane Funeral Home with The Reverend Ron Stolcis officiating. Kane Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

The family has requested that memorials be made in Joe's name to The Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, P.O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.



John Munn Crawford, 55, of Ranchester, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2003, at the VA Medical Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

John was born on October 15, 1947, in Sheridan, Wyoming, to John and Grace (Mates) Crawford. Mr. Crawford lived and attended school in Sheridan until he entered the US Navy in 1965 and served aboard the USS Boxer until 1968. Upon his discharge he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars. John married Pat Griffin on February 14, 1993 in Ranchester, Wyoming.

Mr. Crawford loved the outdoors, he hunted for big game deer, riding his four-wheeler and had a passion for fly fishing and camping with his wife and dogs. He also had a love for woodworking. He made furniture for his family and friends. John spent many hours in his shop designing and building furniture that was unique and all hand made. Mr. Crawford was a member of the American Legion Drum and Bugle Corps for many years.

John was preceded in death by his mother Grace Kuta; Survivors include his wife Pat of Ranchester; his two daughters, Jo Pooley of Sheridan and Christy Crawford Petersen of Casper; his three sons, Johnnie P. Crawford of Casper, Warren Crawford, and Milton Crawford of Riverton; his sister, Margo Dexter; his 13 grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Memorial services will be held at a later date. Kane Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

The family has requested that memorials be made in John's name to The American Heart Association in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, P.O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.


Gillis Charles Flanagan went home to be with the Lord after a long battle with cancer. His spirit left him in peace with his son Michael and daughter in-law at his side. Gillis Charles Flanagan formerly of Bellaire, Texas was born in Keller, Texas to Charles and Maggie Flanagan. His younger days were spent around Keller and later moving to Walters, Oklahoma.

He went to work for the Oklahoma Highway Department and married Bettie McKiddy in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. To them were born two sons Michael Flanagan of Dayton, Wyoming and Gillis Patrick Flanagan of Watsonville, California.

Gillis later went to work for Shell Oil Company in Oklahoma City. This career lasted until his retirement in 1984. With Shell he and his family were relocated in many other areas to this country, Ardmore, Oklahoma, Bismarck, North Dakota, Dickenson, North Dakota, Glendive and Billings, Montana before being transferred to Houston, Texas area to work in the Exploration part of Shell Research Lab. Gillis was in charge of leading field trips all over the United States, Canada, Alaska and Mexico. After retirement he spent time on a special assignment with Shell Oil at Dutch Harbour, Alaska and then collecting water samples across the United States. Gillis had thousands of friends across the country and it was once said that he was better known than the President of Shell Oil Company. Gillis was involved in the filming of a special documentary about the evolution of Geology in North America called "This Land".

Shortly after retirement, Gillis lost his beloved wife of 43 years. He was able to spend time with old friends going fishing, traveling and visiting his two sons. Gillis was proud to have been a descendant of Daniel Boone and being an Irishman. Gil's greatest achievement in life was a few months ago when he humbled himself before God and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He is now in Heaven leading field trips and praising the Lord.

Gillis was preceded in death by his parents and his wife. His survivors are sons Michael Flanagan of Dayton, Wyoming, and Gillis Patrick Flanagan of Watonsville, California; two Brothers Funston P. Flanagan and Andy J. Flanagan of Walters, Oklahoma; and a sister Helen Mitchell of Dunedin, Florida. There are three grand children, two great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was deeply loved by all. We will miss him very much.

Memorial service to be held in Walters, Oklahoma, at 2:00pm from First United Methodist Church on June 7, 2003. Inurnment will be in Oklahoma City, OK.
Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home, Sheridan, WY.

Memorials may benefit the American Cancer Society.



Vera Mae Geier went home to be with her Lord and Savior on May 4, 2003 from her residence in Sheridan.

Vera Mae was born October 14, 1914 in Stroud, Oklahoma to H. O. and Myrtle Mae (Goodwin) Shuff. After graduating from Central State College, she taught at Cooperton, Oklahoma, where she met and married D. Orrel "Budge" Geier, the agricultural teacher. In 1939, they moved to the family ranch in Wyoming on Piney Creek where Vera Mae was a ranch wife, mother and homemaker. She was active in Shell Creek Piney Homemakers Club and at Grace Chapel Church in Story.

In 1973, the Geiers moved to Osage, Wyoming where they had purchased a ranch on Skull Creek. Vera Mae continued her activities in the Community Women's Club and the Osage Community Church. They retired to their home south of Sheridan in 1980 where again, Vera Mae continued her active participation in the community in the Sheridanaires, Sheridan Women's Club, Shell Creek Piney Homemakers Club, Christian Women's Club and Cattlewomen's.

Vera Mae was always active in church serving in many capacities, where her lifetime interest and musical talents were always appreciated and enjoyed by many as she served her Lord. Her life exemplified her love for her Lord and Savior. The family is comforted to know she is now resting in the Lord.

Her husband of 53 years, her parents and one grandson preceded Mrs. Geier in death.

Survivors include her sister, Minta Anne Taylor of Riverside, CA, her children Barbara (John) Eychaner of Banner, Phyllis Cornell of Sheridan, Orlene (Ed) Perritt of Sheridan, Louise (Gary) Kay of Gillette and Marlin (Mary) Geier of Osage, Wyoming. Fifteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren hold fond memories of this active grandmother.

In lieu of flowers, tributes may be made to Red Grade Christian Academy or Hospice of the Big Horns in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801



Doris Mae Hawkins age 82 of Sheridan, WY
Died Friday, May 30, 2003, in her Sheridan home
Born July 2, 1920, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska
Parents - Chris & Olga (Molfield) Holten

She grew up and graduated high school in Scottsbluff. Doris married Kenneth Hawkins on April 21, 1940, in Harrisburg, NE. They farmed near Scottsbluff for a few years until moving to Sheridan in 1945. They ranched on Lower Prairie Dog Creek for 12 years when they moved into Sheridan. They owned and operated "The Spot" until retiring in the last 1970's. After retirement, they traveled around the U.S. in their motorhome. She also enjoyed playing bridge and dancing. Doris was a member of the Does Drove #127, Daughters of the Nile and the Sheridan Cattlewomen.

She was preceded in death by a daughter Deann Kay, seven brothers and three sisters.
SURVIVING RELATIVES
HUSBAND - Kenneth Hawkins, Sheridan
SON - Ken "Buddy" Hawkins, Boulder Creek, CA
DAUGHTER - Doree Kobold, Sheridan
2 GRANDCHILDREN
5 GREAT GRANDCHILDREN
NUMEROUS NIECES AND NEPHEWS

Viewing will be 1:00pm until 7:00pm on Monday (June 2nd) with the funeral service on Tuesday at 10:00am from Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Douglas Goodwin officiating. Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.

Memorials may benefit the Hospice of the Big Horns, or the
Shrine Crippled Children Travel Fund, or the
Family Caregiver & Respite Care at the Senior Center,
in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801


William Allan (Bill) Hurlbutt, 56, of Buffalo, WY, died, May 5, 2003 in Johnson County Health Care Center. Creamation has taken place, and there will be a private family memorial service at a later date. Arrangements are with Champion Ferris Funeral Home.


James J. (Jim) Keller age 80 of Ranchester, WY
Died Wednesday, May 7, 2003, in the V.A. Medical Center, Sheridan, WY
Born January 2, 1923, in Elizabeth, NJ
Parents - Warren & Annie (Earls) Keller

He grew up and graduated Thomas Jefferson High School in Elizabeth. Jim served in the U.S. Army during WWII with the 79th Combat Engineers in the South Pacific. After the service, Jim returned home where he married Ruth Ann Sullivan on June 1, 1946, in Elizabeth. He worked for International Harvester Co. and then for Pettibone Corp. where he was the national director of marketing. Upon retirement, he moved to Ranchester in 1986 and then to Kentucky before returning to Ranchester in 2001. Jim enjoyed fishing, telling stories and jokes and especially enjoyed his daily outing to the senior lunches in Dayton. He was a member of the V.F.W. and attended Ranchester Community Church.

He was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters.
SURVIVING RELATIVES
WIFE - Ruth Keller, Ranchester, WY
SON - Daniel Keller, Ranchester, WY
DAUGHTERS - Susan Keller, Wonder Lake, IL
Eileen Pancyrz, McHenry, IL
Sheila Galuppo, Louisville, KY
BROTHER - Bill Keller, Long Valley, NJ
9 GRANDCHILDREN
9 GREAT GRANDCHILDREN

Funeral service will be 11:00am on Saturday (May 10th) from Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Cremation will follow the service.

Memorials may benefit the Senior Citizen's Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY 82801



Agnes K. Kochel, 93, formerly of Sheridan, passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2003, in Tucson, Arizona.

Agnes was born on May 17, 1909, in Sheridan, Wyoming, to Peter J. And Mary (Fieolek) Kumor. Her family homesteaded on the Dow Prong of Dutch Creek. She attended the Upper Dutch Creek School and Sheridan High

In June of 1924 Agnes went to work at Eaton’s Dude Ranch. She married Reid Kochel of Miles City, Montana on October 20, 1931. They both worked for the Eaton’s Outfit in Wolf, Wyoming for many years. They also worked the Rimrock Ranch in Arizona and the Bar Eleven horse ranch at Echeta, Wyoming.

Agnes was a member of the Catholic Church and the Tucson Cowbells. She enjoyed the warm climate in Tucson, her home and flowers. Though she lived in Arizona her heart was in Wyoming, with the beautiful country, old friends, and horses. Agnes loved her ranch life.

Mrs. Kochel was preceded in death by her husband Reid; her parents; her three brothers; and her three sisters. Survivors include her son Raymond Reid Kochel of Tucson, Arizona; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, May 17, 2003, at Kane Funeral Home with The Reverend Ron Stolcis officiating. Interment will follow in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.



Charles A. Lilley, 78, of Sheridan, died Thursday, May 22, 2003, in Deaconess Medical Center, Billings, Montana.

Mr. Lilley was born September 7, 1924, in Acme, Wyoming, to Albert P. Lilley and Violet Marie Lilley. He attended elementary school in Acme and high school in Sheridan. He received an honorary diploma from Sheridan High School in 2002.

Mr. Lilley was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America during his youth. On May 3, 1941, at the age of 16, he saved two boys from drowning. For this act, he received a certificate for heroism from the National Court of Honor, a medal from the Boy Scouts of America, and on January 8, 1942, received the President's Medal from the National Safety Council, which was presented by R. W. Orr, the Mayor of Sheridan.

Mr. Lilley married Nancy Emma Jean Towns on October 19, 1942, in Hardin, Montana. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in April 1943. While serving in the Fourth Marine Division in the South Pacific, he fought in battles at Kwajalein, Siapan, Tinian, Roi Namor, and Iwo Jima. He was honorably discharged as a Corporal February 2, 1946.

Following World War II, Mr. Lilley trained as a meat cutter under the G. I. Bill. He worked as a meat cutter in Sheridan, Laurel, and Cody. In 1953, he and his family moved to Chehalis, Washington. In 1960, they moved to Vancouver, Washington, where Mr. Lilley worked as a meat cutter for Fred Meyers in Portland, Oregon, until he retired in 1985.

Mr. Lilley and his wife, Jean, returned to Sheridan in 1989. Chuck loved his family, friends and his country. Above all things, he enjoyed fishing and wildlife.

Mr. Lilley was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Charles A. Lilley, III; and his grandson, David Jon Prissel. He is survived by his wife; his daughter, Karen Gambs, and husband, Jon, Vancouver, Washington; and his daughter, Christy Northrop, Vancouver, Washington; ten grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and twenty-nine nieces and nephews. Mr. Lilley is also survived by his six siblings, Virginia Stevens (Dick), Sheridan, Gerald Lilley (Barbara), Sacramento, California, Alice Hyder (Don), Cedar City, Utah, William Lilley (JoAnn), Sheridan, Betty Snodgrass, Ramona, California, and Larry Lilley (Carol), Albany, Oregon.

Mr. Lilley was a life member of the Fourth Marine Division Association. Memorials may be made to the Fourth Marine Division Education Fund, in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, Box 2007, Sheridan or sent directly to the Marine Corp Scholarship Foundation, Box 3008, Princeton, New Jersey, 08543.

Cremation has taken place and a graveside memorial service for Mr. Lilley will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday (May 28th) in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.


Margaret E. McKinney, 77, of Sheridan, WY, died Monday, May 5, 2003 in Westview Health Care Center.

Mrs. McKinney was born November 28, 1925 in Ainsworth, NB to Emil and Marjorie I. (Baker) Kurpjuweit. She grew up attended schools in Ainsworth, graduating from Ainsworth High School in 1945. Mrs. McKinney then attended the Bishop-Clarkson School of Nursing in Omaha, NB, graduating in 1947, coming to Sheridan as a Cadet Nurse at the V. A. Medical Center in early 1947.

Mrs. McKinney married Murray McKinney in Sheridan, WY in 1947. She was a nurse at Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County for 37 years, retiring in 1990.

She was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Sheridan, and District 3, Wyoming Nurses Association. She enjoyed flower gardening, horseback riding, her pets, and spending time with her family.

Mrs. McKinney was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and 1 grandson.

She is survived by 2 sons, Dan McKinney of Castro Valley, CA, and Michael McKinney of El Cajon, CA; 2 daughters, Charlotte McKinney of Sheridan, WY, and Jeanne Bulkley of Arvada, WY; 1 sister, Helen Sherman of Johnstown, NE; 6 grandchildren; and 1 great grandchild.

Private family graveside services for Mrs. McKinney will be 11:00 A.M. Thursday, May 8, 2003 at Little Big Horn Cemetery, Crow Agency, MT with the Rev. William Heine officiating. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Mrs. McKinney may be made to the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, in care of Delphine Toner, P. O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801


Deborah Denise (Henry) Nelson, 49, formerly of Sheridan, passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2003, of natural causes at her home in St. Louis, Missouri.

Denise was born on June 3, 1953, in Casper, to Raymond Henry and Marcelee H. Nelson. She graduated from Sheridan High School in 1971, as a member of the National Honors Society and went on to attend Sheridan College on a scholarship and was a member of Phi Theta Kappa.

Ms. Nelson married Richard Lentz on August 5, 1972 and their union was blessed with one daughter. The two later divorced in 1976.

In May of 1993 Denise received a master's degree as well as a bachelor's degree, both Magna Cum Lade, in Computer Science from Maryville College. She was also inducted into Delta Epsilon Sigma, a national scholastic honor society.

Ms. Nelson had a successful career that including a position with NERCO Corporation that took her family to Alaska and then to St. Louis, as well as working for Citicorp, Ralston Purina, Monsanto Corporation and finally Anheuser Busch Corp.

Denise was an avid reader of books, loved to travel, enjoyed working with computers, and loved spending time with her family, friends and organizations she was involved with.

Her father, Raymond Henry and her grandparents Ethel and Andrew Nelson preceded Ms. Nelson in death. Survivors include her mother Marcelee Nelson; her brother Michael Henry of Cheyenne, Wyoming; her daughter Renee Dawn Euler, wife of Mike Euler, of Denver, Colorado; and her granddaughter Elise Ashton Euler.

Memorial services will be held at 11:30a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2003 at Saint Peter's Episcopal Church with Rev. David Duprey officiating. Kane funeral home is in charge of arrangements

The family has requested that memorial's be made in Denise's name to The Salvation Army in care of Kay Roush, First Federal Bank, P.O. Box 6007, Sheridan, Wyoming 82801.



Lee Dell Robinson, 48, of Sheridan, passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2003, in Sheridan.

Lee was born on January 25, 1955, in Gypsum, Colorado, to Louis D. and Fay A. (Elliott) Robinson. He married Heidi Peterson in Las Vegas, Nevada on June 12, 2002. Lee enjoyed shooting and riding his Harley.

Mr. Robinson was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Heidi; his sister, Sarah Gomez; and his nephew Tim Sears all of Sheridan.

Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2003 at 10:00 a.m. at Kane Funeral Home with Reverend Doug Goodwin officiating. Kane Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

The family has requested that memorials be made in Lee's name to The Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, P.O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.



Dr. Arthur Ely Stolcis, D. D. S., 87, of Sheridan, WY, died May 17, 2003 at the V A Medical Center in Sheridan.

Dr. Stolcis was born July 19, 1915 in Cambria, WY, to Marco and Candida (Fattor) Stolcis. He attended Elementary school in Cambria and graduated in 1932 from Sheridan High School. He was a member of the National Honor Society, Quill & Scroll, Prom Committee, and the Library Club. After attending the University of Wyoming for 3 years, Dr. Stolcis went on to Creighton University in Omaha, NE, where he received his doctorate in dental surgery. At Creighton, he was a member of Delta Sigma Delta, Alpha Sigma Nu, Xavier Forum, and President of his senior class of 1937. Dr. Stolcis practiced dentistry in Hemmingford, NE, for 2 years at which time he enlisted in the U. S. Army on Dec. 26, 1941 at March Field, CA.

He departed July 1, 1942 for the European Theater where he served as a Battalion Dental Surgeon attached to the 812 Aviation Engineer Battalion. He served in Northern Africa, Sicily and Southern Italy. He was awarded the European, African, and the Middle Eastern Service Medal. He was discharged at Fort Logan, CO on Jan. 30, 1946, holding the rank of Major.

Dr. Stolcis returned to Sheridan in 1946 where he ranched on the family ranch until the time of his death. He was always noted for his love of animals.

Dr. Stolcis was preceded in death by his parents; and his twin brothers, Fiore and Robert Stolcis.

He is survived by his nephews, Father Ronald A. Stolcis of Sheridan, WY; and Dr. Robert J. Stolcis, D. D. S., of Denver, CO; and sister-in-law, Teddy Stolcis of Sheridan, WY.

Rosary for Dr. Stolcis will be recited at 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Name Catholic Church at 10:00 A. M., Wednesday, May 21, 2003 with Father Ronald Stolcis as Celebrant. Burial will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Dr. Stolcis may be made to Holy Name School, in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, P. O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801



Emily J. Vincent, 79, of Dayton, WY, died Friday, May 23, 2003 in Deaconess Medical Center, Billings, MT.

Mrs. Vincent was born January 10, 1924 in Newark, NJ to Carlton S. and Esther (Mason) Barss, Sr. She grew up and attended schools in Montclair, and graduated from Columbia High School in Montclair. On April 2, 1942, she married James Vincent in Montclair, NJ. They spent the next 24 years in Penn.; then moved to WY, living in Lander, and then Pavilion. Upon Mr. Vincent's death in 1994, Mrs. Vincent moved to Dayton where she resided until her death.

Mrs. Vincent was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and one brother.

She is survived by 3 sons, Timothy Vincent of Gillette, WY; Michael Vincent of Red Lyon, Penn; and Christopher Vincent of Fork, Maryland; 1 daughter, Shirley Carnahan of Green Springs, W.Va.; 1 sister, Virginia Birckhead of Manaxquan, NJ; and 4 grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place and there will be a private family memorial service at a later date. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.



Henry E. Vine age 86 of Sheridan, WY
Died Saturday, May 31, 2003, in Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County
Born August 18, 1916, in Cambia, WY
Parents - John & Lillian (Eslick) Vine

He grew up in Monarch, WY and Sheridan where he graduated from Sheridan High School. Henry married Edythe Kawamoto on December 16, 1941, in Ft. Collins, CO. He served in the Army Air Corps during WWII. After the service, he worked for the Sheridan Wyoming Coal Co. in the Monarch mine until it was finally closed. He then worked as a diesel mechanic for the Burlington Northern Railroad until he retired in 1980. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church. Henry enjoyed fishing with his brother "Moose" as well as hunting and gardening.

Preceded by his parents, five brothers and two sisters.
SURVIVING RELATIVES
WIFE - Edythe Vine, Sheridan
SONS - Vance Vine, Cody, WY
BROTHER - Robert Vine, Sheridan
SISTER - Rose Parsons, Sheridan
TWO GRANDCHILDREN

Private family service will be later with inurnment of cremains in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials may benefit the Sheridan Senior Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY 82801



Albert Wagner, 85, of Sheridan, WY, died Wednesday, May 28, 2003 in the Sheridan V. A. Medical Center.

Mr. Wagner was born March 15, 1918 in Park City, MT to Henry and Christina Charlotte (Becker) Wagner. He was baptised on April 28, 1918, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sheridan and confirmed on April 18, 1935. He grew up and attended schools in the Sheridan area, graduating from Clearmont High School on May 15, 1936.

After graduating, Mr. Wagner enlisted in the U. S. Army where he received special training in order to serve as a member of the OSS (Office of Strategic Services) which later was changed to the CIA (Central Intelligence Agency.) He served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, and much of his time was spent behind enemy lines.

Following the war, Mr. Wagner returned to Sheridan and attended Sheridan College, and received certification to be a surveyor. He then worked for the Wyoming Highway Department retiring after 32 years.

Mr. Wagner was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church and the American Legion.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 11 brothers and sisters.

Mr. Wagner is survived by 2 sons, Wayne Wagner of Gainesville, FL; and Timothy Wagner of Buffalo, WY; 1 daughter, Carla Strain of Aurora, CO; 5 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services for Mr. Wagner will be 2:00 P.M. Monday, June 2, 2003 at the Immanuel Lutheran Church with Pastor Kirk Peters officiating. Burial will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with military rites by the Wyo. National Guard and American Legion Post #7. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Mr. Wagner may be made to the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1300 W. Fifth St., Sheridan, WY 82801



Shirley Pauline Wertman, 63, of Sheridan, passed away at her home on Friday, May 2, 2003.

Shirley was born on April 7, 1940, in Monarch, Wyoming, to Paul and Olga (Takach) Sturtz. She attended grade school in Acme, and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1958. On June 25, 1965, she married Verne Wertman in Sheridan. Their union was blessed with two children. Shirley enjoyed sewing, baking, camping, and she loved spending time with her grandchildren.

After her children were grown she earned a Bachelors Degree from the University of Wyoming. Mrs. Wertman earned her private pilots license in 1973. She did substitute teaching then worked as an employment specialist for Wyoming Job Service until her retirement in 2001. Shirley enjoyed sewing, baking, camping, hiking, traveling and loved spending time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband; her daughters Elsa Bush of Gillette, WY and Roberta "Bobbie" Wertman of Las Vegas, NV; her stepson Keith Barrow of Aurora, OR; her three grandsons Thomas Bush of Gillette, WY, and Grant and Colin Barrow of Aurora, OR; her three sisters, Lucy Kobielusz, Bernice Kobielusz, and Elsa Ruby all of
Sheridan; and her brother John Sturtz of Sheridan; and many nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Wertman was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters Julia and Olga; and two brothers Paul and Robert.

Cremation has taken place in Sheridan and a memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 17 at 11:00 a.m. at The First Christian Church with Pastor Douglas Goodwin officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorials be made in Shirley's name to first Christian Church and/or Wheden Cancer Foundation in care of Kay Roush, First Federal Bank, P.O. Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.



Lucille M. Wilson 91, of Sheridan, WY, died Thursday, May 8, 2003 in Sheridan Manor.

Mrs. Wilson was born May 27, 1911 in Sedalia, Missouri to Claude and Rose (Godsey) Irwin. She moved with her parents and brother to Wyoming when she was a young girl.

She met her husband, Laeyton Wilson, in Gillette when he was a traveling light plant installer with his father. They were married in Albin, NB in 1929. They traveled for several years before settling in Gillette. Lucile was a metal lather operator at Douglas Aircraft in Long Beach, California during W. W. II.

They then returned to Wyoming where they owned and operated Arrow Head Lodge in the Big Horns, and later Trailside above Buffalo, retiring in the early 1960's. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson shared a life worth of experiences including a fishing boat rental business at Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri.

Mrs. Wilson was an accomplished seamstress, and a creative artist. She loved all animals and many times would crawl under a fence using her belt as a halter to ride unknown horses bareback.

In later years the important things in her life were her grandsons, her pets; always a cocker spaniel and cat, her yard, trees and her flowers.

Mrs. Wilson was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Laeyton, and her brother. She is survived by her daughter, Darlene Elkins and her husband, Jack, of Sheridan; 2 grandsons, John Elkins of Sheridan, and Jerry Elkins of Nevada; 7 great grandchildren; and 13 great, great grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service for Mrs. Wilson will be held at the 7th Day Adventist Church in Sheridan at a later date. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Mrs. Wilson may be made to the Sheridan Animal Center, in care of Delphine Toner, P.B. 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801


Anna K. Zowada, age 95 of Sheridan, WY
Died Friday May 9, 2003, in Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County
Born April 27, 1908 in Dietz, WY
Parents - John and Cecelia (Kiezek) Mentock

She grew up and attended school in Dietz. Anna married Michael Zowada on April 25, 1926 at St. THomas Catholic Church in Monarch, WY. They lived in Dietz until establishing their home in Acme, WY, in 1933. MR. Zowada died in 1956 and she later moved into Sheridan. Anna was a membeer of hte VFW Auxiliary, AMerican Legion AUxiliary, Turtles and Holy Name Catholic Church. SHe was an avid bingo player and enjoyed cooking and family gatherings.

She was proceeded in death by five brothers and one sister.
Surviving Relatives
Sons - Edward Zowada, Sheridan
Michael Zowada, SHeridan
Sister - ROse Coassin, WOrland, WY
4 Grandchildren
7Great Grandchildren
2 Great Great Grandchildren
Numerous neices and nephews

Vigil service will be 7pm on Monday (May 12th) from Champion Ferris Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be at 10am on Tuesday from Champion Ferris Funeral Home with Father Thomas Ogg officiating. Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetary.

Memorials may benefit Holy Name Catholic Church


 

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