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	OBITUARIES NOVEMBER 2006 Obituaries we have received are listed below. We are only able to post obituaries if and when the funeral homes send them to us. If an obituary you are interested in is missing, it's because we were not provided with the information from the funeral homes. Thank You for your patience. VISIT THE OBITUARY ARCHIVE HERE

Anthony Marion Arra (1913-2006)

Anthony (Tony) Marion Arra was born November 5, 1913 in New York City, NY to Gabriel and Fanny Arra. He died on Saturday, November 25, 2006, at age 93.

Tony’s parents emigrated from Italy in 1903 and married in New York. He attended Jamaica High School on Long Island in NYC. He worked for his uncle, who owned a construction company, building new homes and buildings. He also worked at a local Ford dealer on Long Island in NYC as an auto mechanic for three years.

Tony joined the Army Air Corps in 1937. He attended aviation and mechanic schools in the Army Air Corps and was discharged in 1941, then re-enlisted when WWII began. He was assigned to Bolling field in Washington, D.C. as an aircraft mechanic, then transferred to Pearl Harbor before that “Day of Infamy,” where he witnessed the Japanese bombing. He served in the China Burma India campaign as a flight engineer on B-25 and B-29 bombers and as crew chief until the war ended in 1945. He received numerous metals and ribbons for his distinguished service as a Tech Sergeant during WWII.

Tony met Gayle Pierson in Washington, DC, while stationed there in 1940. He married Gayle in 1941 with the marriage lasting 10 years. They gave birth to two children, Robert and Nancy in Casper, Wyoming.

After the war, Tony worked for Continental Oil Company in Lance Creek as a pumper helper and mechanic. He left CONOCO after his divorce from Gayle, then moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where he met Louise and married her in the mid 1950s. They moved to California, where he was a flight test mechanic for Douglas Aircraft in the late 1950s. His marriage to Louise lasted three years.

Tony worked for Boeing in Washington as a flight engineer in the early 1960s, then worked for American Air Conditioning as an inspector in St. Louis, Missouri, for several years, before moving to several different cities across the United States through the 1980s.

In 1988, Tony moved to Sheridan, Wyoming, where he met Margaret Lewis, whom he lived with until she died in 1998. He loved Margaret and enjoyed dancing with her at the Elks Club, where they were members. He would occasionally play his drums for an audience at the Sheridan Manor, where he resided until his death.

Survivors include his two children, Robert in Ft. Collins, CO, and Nancy in Russell, KS, four grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and special friends, Lynn and Larry Baccari and Theresa Hamilton of Sheridan.

Memorials may benefit the Sheridan Elks Lodge #520, P.O. Box 624, Sheridan, WY  82801.

Memorial service will be held at Champion Ferries Funeral Home on Wednesday (Nov. 29th) at 2:00 pm with military honors and inurnment of cremains in the Elks Cemetery. Friends are welcome to attend. The family wishes to thank his friends for their support and Heritage Towers and Sheridan Manor for their great care of Tony in his last years.

Madonna Boley-Keyser: Funeral services for Madonna Boley-Keyser, 69, will be conducted at 10:00 am, Saturday, November 11, 2006 at Kane Funeral Home in Sheridan, WY with Pastor William Heine officiating. A private family graveside services will be conducted in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery on Monday, November 13, 2006. Madonna died peacefully on Tuesday, November 7, 2006 at Sheridan Manor.

Madonna was born on August 9, 1937, in Gering, NE to Elsie (Hoffman) and Vincent Boley. She was active in 4-H and graduated with honors from Sheridan High School in 1955. Madonna then attended the University of Wyoming where she earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Elementary Education. She was an active member of Kappa Delta Pi, Phi Beta Kappa, and Chi Omega. While at the University of Wyoming she met Larry W. Keyser and married him on August 31, 1958. She and Larry moved to Houston, TX in 1962 where Larry worked for NASA and Madonna worked as a teacher and homemaker. They later divorced. Madonna was active in her churches, enjoyed traveling, sewing, and working with children. She especially enjoyed time with her grandchildren.

Madonna is survived by her daughter, Kristi Goldston and her husband Frank, her son, Kerry "Kent" Keyser and his wife Shelly, her sister, Nadine Gorski, her brother, Neil Boley, five grandchildren, one great-grandson, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Veronica Alden and Vicky Overseth

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorial’s be made in Madonna’s name to the Sheridan Senior Center, 211 Smith Street, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Kane Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Grandpa Woodrow "Woodie" Caddell, 91, of Dayton passed away on Thursday, November 2, 2006 at the Sheridan VA Medical Center.

Woodie was born in Melrose, NM to Joe and Luda (Bynum) Caddell on October 1, 1915. He enlisted in the Army in 1944, served in WWII as a heavy machine gunner in the Pacific Theater before being honorably discharged in 1946. He married Lotti Buttrell and the two had a son, Steve, together before divorcing. Woodie operated a farm in Dermott, Texas for nineteen years. He later went on to work for the Santa Fe Railroad for five years. He also worked in the oil fields before moving to Big Timber, MT to ranch with his uncle "Shorty Caddell". Woodie wrote a letter to Johnnie Maples to see if they were old enough to get married. Once she received the letter she got in her car and drove, all alone, to Big Timber from Texas and the two got married. They ranched with his uncle "Shorty" near Big Timber. Woodie’s son, Steve, went to live with them when he was nine and four years later the family sold the ranch and bought a place in Wyola, MT where Woodie ranched and drove school bus for nineteen years and later retired to Dayton, WY. Woodie was commander for VFW Post 10105. He enjoyed volunteering at the VA Medical Center, swimming, jokes, traveling, and spending time with family.

Woodie was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Johnnie; and his son, Steve. He is survived by his daughter-in-law, Ernae Caddell, his three grandchildren, Stephanie Masters of Dayton, WY, Sherri Caddell of Anchorage, AK, and Michael Caddell of Soldotna, AK; and his five great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson.

A viewing will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Monday, November 6, 2006 from

Betty Jean Fink, 70, of Sheridan, WY, died Saturday, October 28, 2006 in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Mrs. Fink was born December 18, 1935 in Houston, TX to Chester H. and Lois (Dobbs) Hanks. 

Betty married William Fink June 28, 1994 in the V. A. Chapel in Miles City, MT.  The couple lived in Miles City until the hospital closed in 1998.  Mr. & Mrs. Fink then moved to Sheridan.

Mrs. Fink was preceded in death by her husband.

She is survived by one daughter, Sandra Hilton, of Houston, TX.

Funeral Liturgy will be 10:00 A.M. Thursday, November 2, 2006 at Holy Name Catholic Church with Father Peter James as Celebrant.  Interment will  be in Black Hills National Cemetery, Sturgis, SD.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. 

Memorials in memory of Mrs. Fink may be made to Holy Name Catholic Church, 9 S. Connor St., Sheridan, WY  82801

Paxey J. Geer 56, of Sheridan, WY, died Friday, November 3, 2006 in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Mrs. Geer was born December 25, 1949 in Sheridan, WY.  She grew up and attended schools in Sheridan.  Paxey married Alton Geer December 31, 1973 in Sheridan.

Mrs. Geer was a homemaker, and enjoyed knitting, crocheting, drawing, and especially enjoyed spending time with her family.

Paxey was preceded in death by her parents, and two sisters.

She is survived by her husband, Alton, of Sheridan; two sons, Allen, of Sheridan, and Kevin, of Parkman, WY; three daughters, Cristina Geer and Darcie Scott, both of Parkman, WY, and Becky Pehringer, of Sheridan, WY; two brothers, Ed Phillips, of Sheridan, WY, and Harry Phillips, of Newcastle, WY; one sister, Helen Copp, of Hardin, MT; and three grandchildren.

At Mrs. Geer’s request, no services are planned.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. 

H. M. "Tom" Harding, 86, of Sheridan, Wyoming died November 12, 2006 at his home.

Tom was born on November 30, 1919 in Linton, ND, the youngest son of Fay and Celia (Quinlan) Harding. He enlisted in the Army in 1942 and served in WWII as a B-24 radio mechanic in the 8th Air Force, stationed in England from 1943-1945. Following his honorable discharge as a Sergeant in 1945 he eventually settled in Sheridan in 1947 and married Roberta McConville in 1951 and divorced in 1973. Tom worked in the accounting field for various local businesses until his retirement in 1985.

Tom is survived by his son, David Harding of Lakewood, CO, grandson, Ryan Harding of Laguna Niguel, CA; son Gregory Harding of Palmdale, CA; son, Kevin Harding, daughter-in-law, Lisa, and granddaughter, Sidney of Sheridan; and daughter, Joan Harding of Kansas City, MO.

A private family ceremony will take place. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorials be made in Tom’s name to a charity of donors choice in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801

Albert Herrera, 81, of Big Horn, passed away on Thursday, November 9, 2006 at Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

Albert was born November 21, 1924 in Saquache, CO to Daniel and Manulita (Cisneros) Herrera.  He married Rosie Valdez in Grand Junction, CO and she preceded him in death.  On August 16, 1973 he married Simonita Torres in Butte, MT.  Albert worked as a diesel mechanic for twenty-three years at Anaconda Company and at Decker Coal for thirteen years until his retirement in 1991.  He was a member of the Anglican Catholic Church and enjoyed woodworking, fishing, and traveling in the motor home.

Albert was preceded in death by his parents; his three brothers, Dan, Joe, and Sam; and his sister, Lula Qualis.  He is survived by his wife, Simonita, of Big Horn, WY; his five sons, Steve of St. Angelo, TX, Manuel and Daniel both of Butte, MT, Roger of Mt. Vernon, WA, and Carl of Taos, NM; his daughter, Dorothy Wentzel of Maupin, OR; his nineteen grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren; and his sister, Virginia Duran of Pueblo, CO.

Funeral services will be at Kane Funeral Home on November 11, 2006 at 2:00 pm with Father Stuart Crawshaw officiating.  Interment will be in the Grand Junction Catholic Cemetery in Grand Junction, CO on Monday, November 13, 2006 at 2:00 pm.  Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Georgia Harris, 103, of Sheridan passed away on November 7, 2006 at Westview Health Care Center.

Georgia was born in Rosebud, MT on June 23, 1903, to Harold and Emma (Harris) Tilleson. She grew up in Rosebud and graduated from highschool there. She married Miller Harris in 1926. In 1946 they moved to Miles City, MT where she worked in a clothing store. Her husband died in 1954. After retirement, she moved to Sheridan where she was active in St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. As a lifelong member of the church Georgia also played the organ in the little log church in Rosebud for many years. She enjoyed sewing, cooking, and reading.

Georgia was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two brothers; a nephew and a niece. She is survived by her daughter, Vanna Schwamb and her husband Lyndon; her two grandsons, Curtis Schwamb and his wife Linda of Sheridan and Douglas Schwamb of Twin Falls, ID; her two great-granddaughters; her two great-great grandchildren; and a nice and a nephew.

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

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorials be made in Georgia’s name to the Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library or donor’s choice in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801

Albert Carl Hendrickson, 46, of Sheridan, passed away on November 28, 2006 at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Billings, MT. He left us way too soon after a short battle with AML Leukemia.

Albert was born on July 30, 1960 in Sheridan to Carl and Helen (Mooney) Hendrickson. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle , and friend. Albert owned and operated Castle Coffee in Sheridan. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, ATV’s, computers, and football, especially his alma mater the Wyoming Cowboys. He received his masters degree in computer science from University of Wyoming. He particularly loved spending time with his nieces and nephew as well as his pets. Albert was dedicated to his family and friends and was always there to lend a helping hand or join in a good time. His family will miss him deeply, he was the glue that held them together.

Albert was preceded in death by his father, Carl Hendrickson in July of 1991. He is survived by his mother, Helen Hendrickson of Sheridan; his sisters, Connie Gardner of Columbus, MT and Tannis Walker of Sheridan; his brother, Dan Hendrickson of Lancaster, PA; his nieces and nephews, Brianna Irvine and her husband Christopher of CA, Christian Gardner of MT, Carl, Becky, and Donna Hendrickson all of PA, Philip Walker and his wife Jennifer Garber of CO, Stephanie Walker of MN, Julianne Walker of CO, and Natalie, Jonathan, and Joseph Walker all of Sheridan.

A visitation will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Thursday, November 30, 2006 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Funeral services will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Friday, December 1, 2006 at 10:00 am with Pastor Dan Hendrickson officiating. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Albert’s name to the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter or Wyoming Cares in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801

Linda Lee Layton, age 54, of Sheridan, WY died Thursday, November 9, 2006, in her Sheridan home.

Linda was born March 24, 1952, in Gillette, WY to Edward & Doris (Seeley) Moore.

Linda grew up and attended schools in Moorcroft, WY, Payson, Arizona, Rosehill, Virginia, and graduated from Sheridan High School.  She graduated from Sheridan College with an associate degree in Computer Science.  Linda married Darrell Layton in 1973 and they later divorced in 1989.  Linda was a member of VFW Auxiliary, Eagles Auxiliary and the Women Pilots Association.  Linda enjoyed flying her Glastar aircraft and was an accomplished dart player for many seasons.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents.

Linda is survived by her companion Ron Lytton of Sheridan; son Travis Layton of Rock Springs, WY; daughter Holly Munoz of Seattle, WA; brother Keith Moore of Sheridan; sister Karla Moore of Charlotte, NC; and three grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be 2:00pm on Monday (Nov. 13th) from the Big Horn Mtn. Eagles Lodge in Sheridan.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Hazel Mooney, 98, of Sheridan, passed away on Tuesday, November 28, 2006 at Sheridan Manor.

Hazel Elvira Prather Mooney was born 98 years ago, August 14, 1908, on a farm in Lovilla, Iowa. She was the first child of Chester Ordway Prather and Grace Gertrude Slater Prather. The family moved shortly after Hazel's birth to a farm near Russell, Iowa. She attended the White School where she rode 1¾ mile to the country school on Bessie, her black Shetland pony.
Hazel's sister, Gladys Imogene was born 1912 on a farm near Russell. Her brother, Homer Orval, was born 1915. Gladys and Chester had asthma. The family moved on 1 April, 1919 from Iowa by train to Wyoming. Hazel attended grade school in Powell, Garland, and Elk Basin. Hazel attended her first two years of high school in Sheridan. She graduated from Mid West and returned to Sheridan for Normal Training as a post graduated course. Hazel taught at a country school six miles from Sussex, Johnson County, Wyoming. While teaching, she met John P. Mooney and married him June 26, 1929 in Sheridan, Wyoming. Their first child, Janet Ann Mooney, was born 6 May 1930. Their second child arrived, January 25, 1935, Donna Jean Mooney. John and Hazel purchase land at 75 Maverick Drive south of Sheridan and where Hazel lived for more than 60 years. Hazel and John grew a large garden each year. She was an active member of the Holy Name Catholic church and served many years as member of the alter and rosary. She was an active member of the McCormick Homemakers Club from 1934 to 2003. She was also a member of the Doll Club. In 1996, Hazel made the major decision to sell her home and move to Heritage Towers. She did not regretted that change. She has lived there for the past ten years, enjoying her friends and activities.

She is preceded in death by her husband, John in May 1971, and daughters, Janet Wolfe in Feb 1974 and Donna Trapp in July 1994, and her sister Gladys and her brother, Orval. She is survived by ten grand children: Dolores McClain of Philipsburg, Montana, Merrilan Simper of Grand View, Idaho, John H. Wolfe of Anaconda, Montana, Dianne K. Cluff of Park Dell, Oregon, Randy Wolfe of Los Angeles California, Lisa Jourdan of New Orleans, Louisiana, Tim Trapp of New Orleans, Diana Starr of Omaha, Nebraska, Shawn Trapp of New Orleans and Patty Roldolph of Rapid City South Dakota. Hazel also has 38 great grand children and 34 great great grand children. We, as Hazel's grandchildren, feel very blessed. Her faith and prayers were always a great strength to us. Although we lost our mothers at a young age, Heavenly Father allowed our grandmother to stay because we needed her.

A Christian Wake service will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Sunday, December 3, 2006 at 7:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Name Catholic Church on Monday, December 4, 2006 at 10:00 am with The Reverend Ron Stolcis officiating. Interment will be in Custer National Battlefield Cemetery in Custer, MT. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Hazel’s name to donor’s choice in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Eugene Murray, 81, of Sheridan, passed away on November 30, 2006 at Westview Health Care Center.

Eugene was born on December 25, 1924, in Sheridan to Jack and Marie (Filla) Murray. He attended Sheridan public schools. Eugene enlisted in the Army in 1943, served in WWII and was honorably discharged in 1946. On June 1, 1952 he married Ann Ligocki Struble in Hardin, MT. Throughout his life Eugene had been employed by Big Horn Coal, Panetta’s, then after the war worked at the Sheridan VA Medical Center for thirty-four years until his retirement in 1980. He loved his family, camping, fishing, and hunting. He was always a happy and cheerful person and everyone was his friend.

Eugene was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; his four brothers, George, Jack, Bob, and Eddie Murray; his four sisters, Mae Belmont, Marie Standish, Margaret Legerski, and Florence Mullins; and his step-son, Leonard Struble. He is survived by his son, Ronald E. Murray of Sheridan; his step-son, LeRoy Struble of Fayettvielle, AR; his four grandchildren and several great and great-great grandchildren; his two sisters, Betty Arzy of Sheridan and Pauline Washut of Bell, CA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Christian Wake Service will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Monday, December 4, 2006 at 7:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Name Catholic Church on Tuesday, December 5, 2006 at 10:00 am with The Reverend Ron Stolcis officiating. Interment will follow in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Eugene’s name to a program of donor’s choice to feed the hungry and house the homeless in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Doris Carol “DC” Neu, age 81, of Dayton, WY died Sunday, October 29, 2006, in Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

Doris was born August 9, 1925, in Kane, WY to Alvin & Sue Adams.

Doris grew up in Kane and graduated high school in Lovell, WY.  She graduated from Billings Business College in Billings, MT.  Doris married Harold S. Neu on November 16, 1946, in Powell, WY where they lived and she worked for the CB&Q Railroad.  Later Doris worked for the Dixon Law Firm until they moved to Dayton in 1969.  They owned the Dayton Texaco and the Dew Drop Inn Drive In in Dayton.  She went to work for the U.S. Forest Service and worked there until she retired.  Doris enjoyed poetry, flowers, gardening, playing the piano and music of all kinds.  Doris loved family gatherings and made them all special. 

Doris is survived by her husband Harold of Dayton; daughters Vickie Martin of Sheridan, Mona Scott of Dayton, Michele Lofgren of Buffalo, WY and Tami Neu of Billings, MT; and eight grandchildren.

Memorial service will be 10:00am on Thursday (Nov. 2nd) from Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Charles Gifford officiating.  Inurnment will be later in Powell, WY.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials may benefit Callie’s Fund, in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, Box 6007, Sheridan, WY  82801.  Donations will be distributed to local veterinarians to assist the older citizens of Sheridan and surrounding areas care for their pets.

Forest "Gail" Parkison, 81, of Dayton passed away on Friday, November 3, 2006 at the Sheridan VA Medical Center.

Gail was born in Helena, MT to Shirley and Lottie (Clausen) Parkison on September 20, 1925. He enlisted in the Army in 1944 and was honorable discharged in 1946. He married Claudia Clow on November 13, 1947 in Crow Agency, MT. He worked for the Padlock Ranch for thirty-five years until retiring in 1992. Gail enjoyed fishing, rodeo, and family.

Gail was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Claudia. He is survived by his three sons and their wives, Rollie & Nancy and Ronn & Marie all of Gillette, WY and Rick and Peg of Sheridan; his six grandchildren, Will & Dixie Parkison of Alliance, NE, Todd Parkison of Jelm, WY, Kelly & Lee Ellis of Colorado Springs, CO, Kristy & Shane Schimpf of Sheridan, Tina and Luke Shelton of Bellingham, WA, and Heather & Jacob Johnson of Glouster, VA; his three great-grandchildren, Jeremy and Allison Ellis of Colorado Springs and Kyler Parkison of Chadron, NE.

Cremation has taken place and a graveside memorial service will be held in the Dayton Cemetery at 11:30 am on Wednesday, November 8, 2006 with a light luncheon following at the Dayton Community Hall. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorials be made in Gail’s name to "Camp Hope for Kids with Diabetes" in care of Steve and Nancy Johnson, 3920 W. 45th Street, Casper, WY 82604.

Nancy "Kathy" Patterson, 57, of Sheridan passed away on Friday, October 27, 2006 at the Sheridan VA Medical Center.

Kathy was born in Denver, CO to Harold and Genevieve (King) Bray on January 16, 1949. She was a school bus driver for Sheridan School District Number 2 and loved it. Kathy was a member of the Grace Baptist Church. In addition to living in Wyoming Kathy was lucky enough to have called Oregon, Idaho, and Nevada home during her lifetime. She was incredibly artistic and enjoyed painting and drawing.

Kathy was preceded in death by her father. She is survived by her children, Deanna Kelley and Jessica Long, both of Sheridan, and Shaun Wolter of Spokane, WA; her three grandchildren; and her siblings, David Bray, Steve Bray, Rod Bray, Diane Dalton, and Marion Gormley all of Oregon, and Leigh Galinski of Alaska.

A celebration of our mother’s life will be November 12, 2006, 1-4 pm at 569 West Works, Sheridan, WY 82801. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Virginia Reed, 89, of Sheridan passed away on November 25, 2006 at Sheridan Manor.

Virginia was born August 11, 1917, in Kearney, Wyoming, to Melvin and Lillie (Greub) Winingar. After graduation from Sheridan High School, she received a nursing degree. She worked at Sheridan County Memorial Hospital for 30 years. Virginia married Orlo A. Reed February 7, 1937. Virginia enjoyed hiking, bridge, knitting, and travel.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Orlo, her son, Jerry Reed, her parents, Melvin and Lillie Winingar, and two sisters, Viola Hinz and Velma Cook. She is survived by her sister Melba Harlin of Sun City West, Arizona, and Lorene Schrader of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place and memorial services will be Wednesday, November 29, 2006, at 2:00pm at Kane Funeral Home with Reverend Doug Goodwin officiating.

Memorial may be made in Virginia’s name to Meals On Wheels or a charity of your choice in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Gisela (Scheer) Romanjenko

September 13, 1930 – November 17, 2006

Gisela ,76, who survived in World War II as a child, died Friday November 17, 2006 at Westview of Pancreatic Cancer. Gisela was born in Essen, Germany on September 13, 1930. At the age of 10 she was sent to work in households to help support her family. When she was 12, her sister Leni was sent to live with her. In 1945, she met Ivan Romanjenko in Friedberg, Hessen Germany. On November 18, 1950, Gisela married Ivan Romanjenko, as he worked in Freidberg for the US Army. Soon after, United Churches workers invited Ivan and Gisela to leave Germany for the United States. On January 10, 1952 Gisela, Ivan, and infant son Peter arrived in New York City. They were then diverted from Iowa to a ranch owned by Tom and Maurine Mader, near Biddle, Montana. Maurine and Gisela became life long friends. In 1953, Gisela and family moved to Gillette, Wyoming where she worked for the school district, and did odd jobs to help support her family. In 1986, they moved to Big Horn and worked on completing a home.As a Naturalized American, she was blessed with the freedom to become a vivacious traveler. She made two trips to Russia and Germany with Ivan, in November 1989 and September 1991.

After Ivan’s death in 1994, Gisela continued to travel with family and friends taking trips to Hawaii, Germany, Mexico, Texas, Alaska, and Florida. She loved going to Mexico every winter with friends. Gisela loved and enjoyed her grand and great grandchildren, and making friends. She was always reading and even managed to take college courses in foreign languages and computer science. Gisela was a member of the Big Horn Church, Big Horn Historical Society, Big Horn Women’s Club, Elks, Eagles, Square Dance Club, Polka Club, Old Time Musicians, American Legion, Knitting Club, Stitch and Skillet Club, a Scout Leader, and a 4-H Leader.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ivan and son Steven. She is survived by one daughter, Anna (Keith) Bailey of Gillette. Three sons; Peter (Cheryl) of Sheridan, Fred (Darla) of Biddle MT, and Mike (Angela) of Story. Three sisters and two brothers in Germany, along with eleven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.

Memorial Services will be at 1:00pm, December 9th, 2006, at the Big Horn Church. Cremation has taken place and her remains will be placed at Mt Hope cemetery in Big Horn.

In Lieu of flowers a memorial has been established to benefit the Big Horn Church

James W. “Bud” Roush, 86, of Sheridan, WY, died Thursday, November 23, 2006 in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Memorial service for Mr. Roush will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, November 29, 2006 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with Phillip Garber as Reader.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Mr. Roush may be made to the Sheridan Senior Citizen’s Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY, or to the “Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, 15125 Ventura Bld., Ste. 204, Sherman Oaks, CA  91403

Vera Elizabeth Schonenbach, 83, died November 24, 2006, in Sheridan at the Sheridan Manor. She was born February 4, 1923, in Sheridan to John and Grace Foster of Clearmont.

She graduated from Sheridan High School in 1940. She took Normal Training to become a teacher and taught two years, the first at Murphy Gulch near Clearmont, and the second near Birney, Montana. During WWII she enlisted in the Waves in 1944, and following Boot Camp in Bronx, New York, she helped decode Japanese messages in Washington, D.C. She was discharged in May, 1946.

While working at the Bones Brother’s Dude Ranch at Birney, Montana, she met John Schonenbach. They were married December 19, 1946, at the Holy Name Parish House in Sheridan. They lived on a ranch near Ashland, Montana, jointly owned by John and his brother. They bought his brother’s interest in the ranch in 1949 and lived on the ranch until 1969 at which time they retired to Sheridan.

While living near Ashland, she was a member of the St. Labre Altar and Rosary Society, Sweet Rocket Garden Club, Ashland Homemakers and Custer Forest Club. In Sheridan, she was a member of the Holy Name Council of Catholic Women, Sheridan County Homemakers and the Sheridan African Violet Club. She was chairwoman for the Heritage Book published by the Sheridan County Homemakers. In 1993, she was chosen for the Sheridan County’s Quealy member, a Wyoming honor for Homemakers.

Her interest included raising flowers, sewing, embroidery work, taking pictures and attending family gatherings.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John and brother Keith. She is survived by her brother Ralph and wife Terri of Clearmont, sisters Helen Harbel and Lula Reeves and husband Glen of Sheridan, son Gene and wife Kathie of Parkman, WY and their son’s Ralph and his wife Sabina and daughter Hopper and son Piet of Switzerland, and Chris of Denver, Colorado, daughter Shirley Schonenbach of Wasilla, Alaska, and son Ron and wife, Nan of Juneau, Alaska, their son Jake Musslewhite and wife Deena and son’s Finn and Charlie of La Conner, Washington, and son Matt Musslewhite of Guttatus, Alaska.

A graveside service will be held at the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery at 11:00am on Wednesday, November 29, 2006, with Father Ron Stolcis officiating.

Memorials may be made in Vera’s name to the Sheridan Senior Center, 211 Smith St, Sheridan, WY.

Steven Allen Toner, 53, of Sheridan, passed away on Monday, November 27, 2006 at Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

Steve was born on April 5, 1953 in Escondido, CA to Richard and Sara (Hayden) Toner. He made his living as a carpenter. Steve loved the outdoors, hunting, and fishing. He enjoyed playing English Darts on his Monday night league and being with family and friends.

Steve is survived by his long time companion, Peri Sorensen and her children Tiffney and Dustin. Paula Toner and their two sons, Brian and Brent Toner; his granddaughter, Jessica Toner.

A visitation will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Saturday, December 2, 2006 from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm. Cremation will follow and no services are scheduled at this time. A gathering of friends will be at the VFW on Saturday, December 2, 2006 from 4:00 pm until ??. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Steve’s name to Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Ann Leslie Van Trump passed away on November 21, 2006 in Sheridan, Wyoming after a courageous battle with cancer. Ann was born Ann Leslie Betcher in Minneapolis, MN on June 29, 1951 the daughter of Bruce and Elizabeth Betcher. She was raised in Minneapolis and in Grand Forks, N.D. She attended the University of North Dakota and received a BS degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology. Ann started her carrier as the first speech therapist for the Sheridan Public school system in 1973. She received her MS degree from the University of Wyoming in 1980. On June 5, 1976 Ann was married to Lonnie Van Trump. Ann and Lonnie had two children. Ian was born May 28, 1980 and Sarah was born August 21, 1982. Ann devoted her life to her husband Lonnie and her children as well as to the children who needed her services as a speech therapist. Her last act of concern for the children of Sagebrush School was to visit the school as the Energizer Bunny, encouraging the students to never give up and to enjoy life.

Ann was a loving wife, and mother and also surrounded herself with many special friends in Sheridan. She was active in volleyball, tennis, quilting, book club and yoga. She had a big heart and a compassion for others, and made lasting friends wherever she went. Her wonderful sense of humor endeared her to others and made her a joy to be with. During the 1997 flood in Grand Forks she organized a book drive to provide books for the libraries whose books had been lost in the flood. She was named the Sheridan Central Education Associations Teacher of the Year for 2003-04.

Ann was preceded in death by her Mother Elizabeth of Grand Forks and her Sister Barbara Melore of Vancouver, WA. She is survived by her husband Lonnie Van Trump of Sheridan, her son Ian and daughter Sarah of Berkeley, CA, her Father Bruce Betcher of Grand Forks and her Brother John (Julia) Betcher of Minneapolis, MN.

A memorial service for Ann will be held on Monday, November 27, 2006 at 4:00 PM at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Sheridan. The family asks that memorials be directed to the Hope Lodge where Ann lived while a patient at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.

Hope Lodge / American Cancer Society

411 Second St. N.W.

Rochester, MN 55901-2814

Olga A. Walker, 94, of Sheridan passed away on Monday, November 27, 2006 at Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

Olga was born on February 8, 1912 in Hochst, Austria to Heinrich and Emma (Schneider) Gerer. She came to the United States in 1927 with her family. She ran in a marathon from Sheridan to Buffalo and won first place in the ladies category. She went to work for Oliver Wallop, Sr. before moving to Oregon. In 1932 she married Ralph Walker in Dallas, Oregon. The couple moved to Sheridan in 1945 where Olga worked for the Padlock Ranch as a cook and later, for 5 ½ years, took over the restaurant at the Sheridan Livestock. She also worked for a short time at Bear Lodge until she quit due to her husbands deteriorating health. Olga was an avid bingo player and enjoyed fishing, crocheting, knitting, and playing cards at the Sheridan Center. She was a member of the Homemakers Circle.

Olga was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ralph; her daughter, Darlene Hartman; her three sisters, Paula Cass, Stefania Fox, and Lina Blankenburg; and a brother, Bruno Gerer She is survived by her sons, Tom Walker and his wife Pat of Sheridan and Jim Walker and his wife Peggy of AZ; and her seven grandchildren, twenty-one great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Graveside services will be held in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery at 2:00 on Friday, December 1, 2006 with The Reverend Ron Stolcis officiating. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorials may be made in Olga’s name to the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801

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