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	OBITUARIES JANUARY 2007 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

Geraldine "Gerri" Adams, 74, of Sheridan, passed away at Sheridan Manor on Saturday, January 20, 2007.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place and her ashes will be taken and placed at Lander, Wyoming according to her family.

Gerri was born in Eufaula, Oklahoma to Elzora and Edward Tate on July 20, 1932. She met and married the love of her life, John Welch in 1954 in California. After their marriage they moved to Colorado, then to Wyoming. After John passed away in 1988, Gerri married Jim Adams in Sheridan and later divorced. Gerri didn’t care about "things" but rather about people and she always had time to listen. She was honest, humble, unselfish, thoughtful, non-judgemental, and forgiving. She retained the innocent heart and inner beauty of youth. Gerri enjoyed life to the fullest and brought joy to everyone.

She was preceded in death by one sister, Mae Sprayberry, one brother, Harold Tate, her mother, Elzora Faught , stepfather, Jimmy Faught, father, Edward Tate, and daughter, Machelle. Gene is survived by her sons, Mike Welch and his wife Jan of Evanston and Stan Martinez of Michigan; her daughters, Debbie Stephens and her husband Rick of Sheridan and Sheila MacDonald of California; her granddaughter, April Hunter and her husband J.R of South Dakota.; two great-grandchildren, Rikki and Jacob of South Dakota; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren in California and Michigan; and her two brothers, Edward Tate and David Faught both of California.

Her family and friends will miss her wisdom, kindness, and quiet strength. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements

Sylvester "Cecil" Aksamit, 90, of Sheridan passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2007 at Sheridan Manor.

Cecil was born in Bear Creek, MT to Antone and Mary (Dobinoik) on August 18, 1916. He married Anne Legerski on February 19, 1939 in Monarch, WY and the couple raised six children together. Cecil worked as a self-employed electrician for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, prospecting, gardening and loved spending time with his family especially the babies.

Cecil was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, ; and his grandson, Kevin Kuzara. He is survived by his wife, Anne of Ranchester; his sons, Ronald "Ronnie" Aksamit and his wife, Linda of Ranchester, David Aksamit of Big Horn, Richard Aksamit and his wife Lela of WA, and Gene Aksamit and his wife Margaret of CO; his daughters, Cecilia Kuzara and her husband Richard of Sheridan and Linda Carlat and her husband Dan of Buffalo, WY; his nineteen grandchildren and twenty-two great-grandchildren; and his two sisters, Phyllis Legoski and Helen Lackman, both of Sheridan.

A Christian wake service will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Sunday, January 14, 2007 at 3:00 pm. Funeral mass will be held at Holy Name Catholic Church on Monday, January 15, 2007 at 10:00 am with The Reverend Ron Stolcis officiating. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorials be made in Cecil’s name the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Box 8249, Missoula, MT 59807.

Harold W. Axtell, age 89, of Sheridan, WY died Monday, January 1, 2007, in Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

Harold was born September 3, 1917, in Medina, N. Dakota, to Lloyd & Lyla (Larson) Axtell.

Harold grew up and graduated high school in Medina.  He worked in the CCC until he enlisted in the Army Air Corps during WWII.  After the service, he returned to Medina & operated his own auto body shop.  Harold married Harriet Sorvik on December 28, 1949, in Sheridan.  They lived in Medina for a year and then moved to Sheridan.  He worked for Hammer’s Chevrolet until he retired after working more than 30 years.  Harold enjoyed playing cribbage, fishing, hunting and later he enjoyed the Senior Citizen’s Center.  He was a member of First United Methodist Church and the American Legion.

Harold was preceded in death by his sister Leona Trautmann.

Harold is survived by his daughter Shirley Morris of Excelsior Springs, MO; sisters Maxine Ames of Minot, ND and Marian Mathern of Salem, OR; two grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Visitation will be 5:00pm until 7:00pm on Thursday (Jan. 4th) from Champion Ferries Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be 10:00am on Friday from Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Don Derryberry officiating.  Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.  Military rites performed by the American Legion and the National Guard.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials may benefit the First United Methodist Church.

Marion E. Benson, 87, died Sunday Jan. 21, 2007 in Sheridan, Wyoming. She was born Marion Eunice Thorson Dec. 21, 1919 in Fife, Washington to Stenor and Ellen Thorson. Marion grew up near Tacoma and graduated from Fife High School.

Wallace R. and Marion were married March 1, 1947 in Tacoma, Washington and they had two children, Mary Ann Lance of Sheridan, Wyoming and Ross Benson of Fort Worth. She and her family lived in Cheyenne for fifty-two years before moving to Sheridan in April, 2006.

In addition to her husband of sixty years, survivors include her daughter, Mary Ann (Jay) and their three sons, Brent, Craig, and Ryan, and her son, Ross (Carla) and their two sons, Jordan and Jared. Marion was preceded in death by three sisters and a brother. She is survived by an older sister Dorothy Faulk of Tacoma, Washington, four nieces and three nephews. Marion was a longtime member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Cheyenne and an active member of the Naomi Circle. She enjoyed golfing, bowling, and playing bridge.

A memorial service for family and friends will be held at 2PM Friday, Jan.26 at Kane’s Funeral Home. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Attila “Bert” Bertalan, 61, of Sheridan, WY, died Sunday, January 21, 2007 in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Bert was born October 5, 1945 in Germany.  During his childhood, he immigrated to the United States and settled in Poughkeepsie, New York, where he graduated from Poughkeepsie High School.

Upon completion of high school, Bert served in the U. S. Army from 1964 through 1966 and was stationed in Germany as a missile technician.  After serving his country, Bert returned to New York where he managed a grocery store and married Linda Locken on November 20, 1971.

In 1972 Bert and Linda moved to Sheridan where they purchased Cloud Peak Lanes, which he continued to own and operate until his passing,

Bert enjoyed spending time in the mountains, fishing, woodworking, and vacationing with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Linda Bertalan; his son, Michael Bertalan and his fiancee, Alex Bateman; his daughter, Kristin Candelaria, and her husband, Christopher Candelaria; one brother, Arpad Bertalan; one grandson, Cameron Attila Candelaria; and five “adopted” grandchildren, Trevor, Bailey, Afton, Cole, and Brynn Bateman.

Memorial service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 27, 2007 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Kevin Jones officiating.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Bert may be made to the “Bertalan Memorial Scholarship Fund”, in care of Lisa Hamby, 2026 Colonial Dr., Sheridan, WY  82801, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Alvin J. Burleson, 83, of Sheridan passed away January 8, 2006 at the VA Medical Center Nursing Home Care Unit. Alvin was born April 11, 1923 in Kensal, North Dakota to Earnest and Alvina Burleson. He attended schools in Pingree, ND. Alvin married Jeanne Petrek on January 7, 1944. He entered the U.S. Army in 1944 and served during WW II in Europe and was discharged in 1946.

Alvin farmed in the Kensal, North Dakota area until moving to Newcastle, Wyoming in 1969 where he worked in the oilfields and then construction. Alvin and family moved to Sheridan in 1977 where he continued in the construction field until retirement. Alvin was a member of Holy Name Catholic Church, VFW, Elks and the Big Horn Mountain Polka Club. Alvin took great pride in his construction and woodworking skills building the family home in North Dakota and many special gifts for his family and friends. Alvin enjoyed fishing with his children and grandchildren whenever possible. Many dear memories were made during these fishing excursions. Spending time with his family was very important to Alvin.

Alvin is survived by his wife, Jeanne; son, Mike Burleson and wife Theoda of Newcastle; daughters Janell Mills and husband Mike of Gillette, and Becky Allen and husband Dan of Sheridan; twin brother Melvin Burleson and wife Helen of Jamestown, North Dakota; and sister, Lucille Swanson of Jamestown and numerous nieces and nephews. Alvin is also survived by eight grandchildren Dawnyell (Matt) Anderson of Newcastle, Wyoming; Marilee (Matt) Goodrich of Longmont, Colorado; Melanie (JJ) Araas of Sheridan, Wyoming; Chad (Casey) Mills, Cody (Stacy) Mills, Shane Mills, Catherine Mills and Matthew Mills all of Gillette, Wyoming. He is also survived by seven great-grandchildren; Ezra Anderson, Landon and Max Goodrich, Ethan Araas, and Jillian, Carson and Kaleigh Mills. Alvin was preceded in death by three sisters; a son, Richard, and daughter Mary Pat; and two grandchildren, Michael and Nakala Burleson.

Christian wake services will be at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 10, 2007 at Kane Funeral Home with Mass of the Christian Burial at Holy Name Church at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 11, 2007 and interment at Sheridan Municipal Cementary.

The family extends their deepest appreciation to all the doctors, nurses, and staff of the VA Nursing Home Care Unit for their compassionate and quality care. Memorials may benefit Holy Name Church or Sheridan Senior Citizens Center.

Carl H. Cantonwine, 92, of Sheridan passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2007 in Sheridan.

Carl was born on December 16, 1914 to Claude and Margaret (Fehling) Cantonwine in Nathrop, Colorado. Carl spent his early years on the livestock ranch at the foot of the Colorado Rockies. He attended the rural Gas Creek School, where he was sometimes the only student. In 1928, the family moved to Watsonville, California where they operated a dairy and Carl attended high school. Carl served nine years in the true ministry. Then a throat health problem made it necessary to give up his first love. During World War II he was a shipfitter at a Seattle, Washington, shipyard, building minesweepers. In 1944 he and Juanita Mitchell were united in marriage at her home in Bellingham, Washington. When the war was over, they moved to Hayden Lake, Idaho, where they operated a dairy and started a herd of purebred Aberdeen Angus cattle. It was there they were blessed with two daughters, Bonnie and Elizabeth. In 1955, they moved their family and the Angus herd to a wheat and cattle ranch at Spotted Horse Wyoming. It was while there, another blessing, their son, Carl Claude was born. Carl and Juanita retired from ranching and spent a few years in California before living in Plentywood, Montana for nine years and then back to Sheridan to spend their final retirement years. Carl’s chief joy in life was knowing and serving God.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Raymond; and his wife, Juanita of sixty-two years. He is survived by his daughters, Bonnie Tagtow (Roger) of Banner, WY and Elizabeth Kleppen (Curtis) of Outlook, MT; his son, Carl C. Cantonwine of Tooele, UT; his seven grandchildren, Jamie Barry (Scott) of Pierre, SD, Julie Oneyear (Jeff) of Sheridan, and Trent, Shane, Jed, Lane, and Kara Kleppen all of Outlook, MT and eight great-grandchildren.

Carl leaves a host of friends throughout the Northwest.

A viewing will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Saturday, January 13, 2007 at 4:00 p.m. followed by a luncheon. Private graveside services are planned for Monday, January 15, 2007, in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Reverend Raymond H. Clark was born to Roy and Helen Clark in Olean, NY, March 27, 1918. He graduated Olean High School in 1935. Ray was the oldest of 3 boys. He married Mary Harmer in 1941. They had 3 children and celebrated 55 years of marriage. After her death he married Linda McNeill in 2001. He passed away at his home in Sheridan, WY on January 7, 2007.

After graduating from the University of Idaho in 1940 with a BA degree in history, he attended Seabury-Western Seminary in Evanston, Illinois. He graduated from there in 1943 with a Bachelor of Divinity Degree. He first served as a priest in Pullman, Washington. He moved to Laramie, WY where he served as Student Chaplain for the University of Wyoming. In 1949 Ray and his family moved to Sheridan, where he served as priest and rector for St. Peter’s Episcopal Church for 39 years. In 1974, St. Matthew’s Episcopal Cathedral in Laramie, WY bestowed on him the title of Honorary Canon for his work as a Student Chaplain at the University of Wyoming, his service to the cathedral and to the diocese. In 1975, the seminary conferred to him an Honorary Doctorate for outstanding contributions as a priest and to his community. For many years he was Secretary to the Diocese of Wyoming and was a member of the Executive Committee.

Upon his retirement in August of 1988 he was conferred the title of Rector Emeritus at St. Peter’s. During his retirement, Ray filled various denominational pulpits, performed weddings and funerals, and served as a chaplain for Sheridan’s VA Medical Center.

His Boy Scout career began when he joined Troop 34 in Belmont, New York in 1930. On May 6, 1932, he received his Eagle Badge. Ray was active in scouting while in high school and continued to be interested and active in scouting throughout his life. He participated in many scouting activities, both on a local and district level. During his tenure as Rector of St. Peter’s Church, Ray actively encouraged the church to sponsor Troop 112 for many years, and for a time this troop had the longest continuous active status in the community. In 1969, he was awarded the Silver Beaver and also was presented with the Scout District Award of Merit. In l986, the Episcopal Church and the Boy Scout Program awarded him the national church’s St. George plaque. The Wyoming Girl Scout Council also presented him an appreciation plaque for his timeless efforts on behalf of all scouting activities.

Ray worked passionately to support and promote community service organizations. Wherever he saw a need, he helped organize and provide leadership for new programs. During his years in Sheridan, he served on the All American Indian Days Board and originated its interdenominational inter-racial church service. He was very active in the local Ministerial Association and served in all offices of that association. He was instrumental in starting Hospice, Lifelink, and the Community Christmas Dinner in Sheridan County. He served as Board Chairmen for the Scottish Rite Speech/Language Clinic of Northern Wyoming. He served on the Senior Center Board from 1990 until 2000, and was Board Chairman from 1994 to 1995. He served as a member of the Tripartite Board disbursing State funds to non-profit Sheridan County agencies. He served on the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation Board for many years and raised funds for the hospital and the Senior Center.

Ray was active in all levels of Masonry. He earned the 33rd Degree in the Masonic Order, was an honorary Past Master and long time chaplain to the Divan of the Kalif Shrine. He served as the Almoner for the local Scottish Rite chapter.

Ray was recognized as an outstanding citizen by his church and the community receiving:

Over the years, he has served as:

Survivors include his wife, Linda, of Sheridan, WY; daughter, Sandra, of Washington D.C.; son, Randy, of Boston, MA; son, Peter of Ranchester, WY. His grandchildren are Nathaniel Kolb, Amelie Kolb, Ringo Clark, Belle Clark, Shane Zettile, Ariene Clark and Philip Clark.

Funeral arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Services will be held at St. Peter’s church in Sheridan at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 13, 2007.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorials be made in Ray’s name to Life Link, the Sheridan Senior Citizen Center, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Foundation, or donor’s choice in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Dean B. Copp, age 40, of Sheridan, WY died Sunday, January 14, 2006, in Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

Dean was born October 19,1966, in Sheridan to Kenneth & Carol (McCalla) Copp.

Dean grew up in Sheridan and Parkman and graduated from Tongue River High School.  He attended Wyo. Tech in Laramie, WY and then worked for Sheridan Ranch Supply.  He married Marcy Seldmann on October 17, 1989, in Sheridan.  They lived in California, Billings, MT and Glendive, MT.  They divorced in 2001.  Dean returned to Sheridan in 2001 and attended the Sheridan College welding program.  He worked at Jack’s Auto Body for two years.  He then worked for Washington Group Mine in Wright, WY until going to work at Decker Coal in October 2005.  He was a member of UMWA.  Dean enjoyed working on cars, camping, going to the mountains, four wheeling and horses.  Dean loved his family and was very devoted to them. 

Dean was preceded in death by his father, grandmothers Bernadine Copp and Helen McCalla and one nephew.

Dean is survived by his children Kolte, Shain and Austyn Copp of Glendive, MT; his companion Lavon Heide of Sheridan and her children Caelan Brackeen, Candice Barbero and Jessica Heide; mother Carol Copp of Parkman, WY; brother Mac Copp of Sheridan: sister Tina Fauber of Sheridan and numerous nieces and nephews.

Viewing will be 5:00 until 8:00pm on Wednesday (Jan. 17th) from Champion Ferries Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be 10:00am on Thursday from Bethesda Worship Center with the Rev. Scott Lee officiating.  Interment will be in Dayton Cemetery.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials may benefit the Dean Copp Children’s Fund in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, Box 6007, Sheridan, WY  82801

Virginia Custis, 81, of Sheridan passed away on Monday, January 22, 2007 at Sheridan Manor.

Virginia was born on April 16, 1925 in Sheridan to Claude and Clare (DeLapp) Luce. She grew up around the mining communities of Acme and Monarch. She married Thad Custis in Sheridan on July 19, 1952 and the couple raised two children together. She worked as a cashier at Walgreen’s in Casper for many years. Virginia enjoyed fishing , hunting, camping, and crocheting. She loved looking at the wildlife and at Blacktooth Mountain in the Big Horns.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Thad; her three brothers, Norman, Hearst, and Hammond; her two sisters, Zola and Lucille. She is survived by her son, John Custis of Big Horn, WY; her daughter, Linda Grier of Sayre, OK; her one granddaughter; and her half-sister, Margaret Tillery of Miles City, MT.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.

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

Margo Dexter, 53, of Sheridan passed away on Monday, January 1, 2007 in Billings, Montana at Deaconess Hospital.

Margo was born to John and Grace (Paulus) Mates on May 29, 1953, in Shelby, MT. She was a highschool graduate and worked as an activities director for twenty years. Margo enjoyed helping others, gardening, and the outdoors. She loved spending time with her grandkids and going to lunch with her friends.

Margo was preceded in death by her mother, Grace Kuta; her stepdad, Earl Kuta; and her brother, John Crawford. She is survived by, ex-husband, Bruce Dexter of Cheyenne, WY; her two sons, Jay Dexter and his significant other, Christy of Canon City, CO and Mark Dexter and his wife Tanisha of Gillette, WY; her daughter, Devon Noecker and her husband Kelly of Sheridan; her six grandchildren, Tommy Dexter, Eric Dexter, Jaci Dexter, Bella Dexter, Jordan Noecker, and Morgan Noecker; and her sister-in-law, Pat Crawford of Sheridan.

A viewing will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Friday, January 5, 2007 from 7:00 pm until 9:00 pm. Memorial services will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Saturday, January 6, 2007 at 10:00 am with The Reverend Ron Stolcis officiating. Graveside committal will follow in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements.

Charles (Charlie) Dunn, age 59, of Buffalo, WY died Saturday, January 20, 2007, at his home after a battle with cancer.

Charlie was born October 6, 1947, in Greybull, WY to Frank & Doris (Shoemaker) Dunn

Charlie grew up and attended elementary schools in Greybull, Sheridan and Rawlins, WY.  He graduated high school in Browning, Montana in 1966.  He enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving on the USS Ranger as a petty officer doing airframe and power plant technicians.  He received three medals and a letter of commendation.  After the service, he returned to Greybull and worked for Hawkins and Powers Aviation.  In 2002, Charlie moved to Buffalo and worked for the Johnson County Cemetery District as assistant Sexton. Charlie enjoyed camping, reading, welding, and doing mechanic work for friends and family. 

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents.

Charlie is survived by his brother Harold Dunn of Buffalo and one nephew and one niece.

Private graveside committal of cremains will be later in Greybull.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home, Sheridan, WY.

Memorials may benefit the Johnson County Library or Susie Bowling Lawrence Hospice.

Jack E. Ferren, 95, of Sheridan passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2007 at Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

Jack was born on September 16, 1911 to Elmer and Maud (Stone) Ferren in Sheridan. He was student body president and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1929. He went on to attend the University of Wyoming and earn his Master’s Degree in Geology. While at UW Jack was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity. He was a member of the Sheridan Elks Lodge #520 from 1936 until his death. He was Exalted Ruler from 1944-1945, District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler from 1967-1968, Trustee from 1950-1970, Lodge Secretary from 1976-1983, State Trustee for five years, and was given the State Elks Distinguished Elk Award in 1985/86. Jack was also on the Sheridan Wyo Rodeo Executive Board. He was a founding member of the Rodeo Association in 1932 in which he held the General Board seat for nearly sixty years. Jack held almost every seat on the executive board at one point. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Kalif Shrine. Jack was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing in his beloved Big Horn Mountains. He was a lifelong musician, playing clarinet, saxophone, and the organ. Jack put himself through college playing in dance bands. He played in local summer bands for park concerts as well as in the Kalif Shrine Brass Band.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marjorie; and his son, Gene. He is survived by his son, David Ferren and his wife Joanne of Penfield, NY; and his two grandchildren, four step-grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place and memorial services will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 16, 2007 at 10:30 am. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorials be made in Jack’s name to the Sheridan Elks Lodge #520 Cemetery Fund in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Henry G. Freund, age 88, of Sheridan, WY died Tuesday, January 2, 2007, in the V.A. Medical Center, Sheridan.

Henry was born November 8, 1918, in Portland, OR, to Carl & Jeanne (DeCostard) Freund.

Henry grew up and graduated high school in Portland.  He went to work for the Post Office enlisted in the Army Air Corps during WWII.  After the service, he returned to Portland where he went back to the Post Office.  He worked in the Post Office until he retired in 1979.  Henry enjoyed swimming, golf, bowling and traveling.  He moved to Sheridan in May 2000 to be near family members.  Henry was a member of First Baptist Church.

Henry is survived by two sisters Louise Freund and Florence Doolin both of Sheridan; one nephew and one niece.

Viewing will be Noon until 5:00pm on Friday (Jan. 5th) from Champion Ferries Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be 10:30am at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Kenneth Doolin officiating.  Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.  Military rites are by the Wyoming National Guard.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials may benefit First Baptist Church.

Mary Louise Johnson: Funeral services for will be 6:00 P.M. Saturday, January 27, 2007 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Brian Johnson officiating.  Mrs. Johnson died Saturday, January 20th in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Mary Louise Johnson was born July 8, 1914 in Leadville, Colorado to James H. and Bridget (Casey) Allingham.  She was orphaned at age 4 and was then raised by Edward and Nettie Moss.

As a young girl she attended Abbey School in Canon City, Colorado and graduated from High School in Arvada, Colorado in 1932.  She attended Colorado Women’s College and the Denver Art School.  She had a short career as a commercial artist before marrying Lee R. Johnson in Arvada, Colorado on August 31, 1934.

She accompanied her husband, a member of he Jay Sidel Orchestra, to Sheridan for a performance at the Palace Dance Hall in 1938.  They liked Sheridan and decided to stay.  Louise and her husband Lee started Johnson Novelty Co. in 1939.  She continued to own the business until 1994 when it was sold to Black Hills Novelty.

She was a member of the Jr. Women’s Club and a founding member and past president of Akcita Win Women’s Club.  She was a Republican Committee member and a longtime Election Poll Judge.  She had been a member of the Business and Professional Women’s Club.

In her younger days, she was an avid golfer and until recently, enjoyed playing bridge.  She took oil painting and watercolor classes at Sheridan College for many years and enjoyed chaperoning the Art club trips to the Denver Art Museum.  She was an avid reader, especially mysteries, and was a longtime supporter of the Library.  She had a quick wit and loved lively conversation with family and friends.  For the past four years, she enjoyed going to the YMCA Pool every weekday for Arthracise classes.

She was a mentor to her children and grandchildren.  She always had an encouraging smile and a hug.  She loved her family and we loved her back.  She will be missed!!!!

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lee R., her sister, Bytha Moss, and her daughter-in-law, Joan Johnson.

Survivors include three sons, Edwin L., of Sheridan, WY, Anthony A. and his wife Kitty, of Colorado Springs, CO, and Jon E. of Studio City, CA; a daughter, Mary L. Adams, and her husband, Roger, of Sheridan, WY; two nephews, William Moss, of Sparks, NV, and James Moss, of Bountiful, Utah; 9 grandchildren; and 9 great grandchildren.

Memorials can be made to Akcita Win, in care of Tara Keep at First Federal Savings Bank, P. O. Box 6007, Sheridan, WY  82801

F. Joyce Kobielusz, age 76, of Sheridan, WY died Monday, January 29, 2007, in Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County.

Joyce was born October 10, 1930, in Kane, WY to Carl & Kathryn (Zurcher) Hessenthaler.

Joyce grew up and graduated high school in Lovell, WY.  She married Edward Carson in 1947 in Lovell. They divorced in 1952.  She moved to Cody, WY and worked for Husky Oil Co.  In 1962, she moved to Sheridan and worked as a bookkeeper for Husman Construction.  Joyce married John T. Kobielusz in Worland, WY in 1969.  She went to work for School District II in 1969 as the financial manager and worked there until she retired in 1992.  She then worked during the tax season for H&R Block and also volunteered to do tax preparation at the Senior Citizen’s Center.  She was a member of AARP, Retired Teachers Assn. and Eagles 186 Auxiliary.  Joyce enjoyed collecting dolls (especially Barbie Dolls), beanie babies, other toys, antiques as well as going on gambling trips to Deadwood and birdwatching in her backyard.

Joyce was preceded in death by sisters Rosalee Hentzel and Gertrude Dorey; brothers Charles and Paul Hessenthaler and a stepson Gary Kobielusz.

Joyce is survived by her husband John of Sheridan; sons Gary Carson of Custer, WA and Bill Carson of Gillette, WY; daughter Diane Kay Peters of Goodyear, AZ; step sons Theodore Kobielusz of California, Larry and Robert Kobielusz of Sheridan; brother Walter Hessenthaler of Yakima, WA; sisters Minna Franch of Lovell, WY, Jean Kimball of College Place, WA, Ruth Shaffer of Loveland, CO; twenty grandchildren and twenty seven great grandchildren.

Viewing will be 2:00pm until 6:00pm on Thursday (Feb. 1st) from Champion Ferries Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be 10:00am on Friday from Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Douglas Goodwin officiating.  Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials may benefit the Sheridan Senior Citizen’s Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan.

Jere "Jerry" Noecker, 65, of Sheridan, died on Monday, January 22, 2007 at his Sheridan home after a long illness.

Born June 3, 1941 in Rapid City, SD to Louis and Shirley (Ritts) Noecker, he moved with his family to Sheridan in 1955. After finishing school he worked for a short time on the railroad and then worked for thirty years for Kewits Construction and Mining. He was married in Sheridan in 1986 to Sheryl Bedell of Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Zachary Noecker.

Survivors include his wife, Sheryl of Sheridan; three children of a previous marriage to Brenda Stewart, Kelly Noecker (Devon) of Sheridan, Lori Hammond and Tina Anders of VA; stepchildren, Linda (James) Bennett, Anna (Art) Winterman, and Phyllis Channel all of KS, and Charles Channel of Sheridan; a sister, Deanna (Robert) Matteson; a brother, Tom (Deeann) Noecker of Sheridan; twelve grandchildren, eleven step grandchildren, and one great-grandson; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Cremation has taken place. Services arrangements are planned for a later date. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorials be made in Jere’s name to the Lupus Foundation 330 S. 7th Ave., Suite 1701, New York, NY 10001.

Christopher Slayter, 85, of Sheridan passed away on Monday, January 8, 2007 at the Sheridan VA Medical Center.

Christopher was born to O.D. and Hazel (Abbott) Slayter on October 7, 1921 in Kearney, NE. The family moved to Sydney, NE and that is where Chris graduated from high school. While attending school he worked for Western Union, Montgomery Wards, and Union Pacific Railroad as a crew caller. He served in WWII in the Army up in Scaggway, AK. When he came out of the service in 1945 he bought the Log Cabin Camp from his grandparents, Harve and Martha Slayter and made that his career. He is the longest serving member of the American Legion Drum and Bugle Corps. Chris joined in 1945 and for 62 years made the Sheridan Wyo Rodeo Parade in his golf cart when he could not walk. He was well known for his involvement as a ski patrolman and was the patrol leader for many years giving first aid instruction and avalanche training to many young people in the Sheridan area. Later he became a ski instructor and taught many how to ski up at Antelope Butte Ski Area. Chris’s other interests in life included golf, boating, fishing, hunting, camping, traveling, bowling, and of course playing cards, which he so loved at the Senior Center. He was a member of many service organizations which include the Eagles, Elks, American Legion, VFW, Blue Lodge 43, Masonic Scottish Rite, Kalif Shrine, Kalif Shrine Oriental Band, and Chamber of Commerce.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his daughters, Deb Rice and her husband Tom, and Christine Bunn and her husband Ernie; his son, Edward Slayter; his five grandchildren, Dax Rice, Sage Kehrer, J.B. Bohnsack, Hoot Bohnsack, and Strider Fann.

Big Horn Mountain Lodge #43 is in charge of graveside services which will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 13, 2007 in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with A.E. Al Badgett, Past Master, conducting. With the Kalif Shrine Center Oriental Band and the American Legion Post #7 Drum and Bugle Corps as honorary pallbearers. A reception will immediately follow the service at the American Legion Post #7 on Brooks Street. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorials be made in Christopher’s name to the Senior Citizens Endowment Program in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Cleo Lowther Spencer, 90, of Sheridan, passed away on Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at Westview Health Care Center.

Cleo was born in Tiawah, OK to Grover and Mae (Coker) Lowther on November 16, 1916. She married James P. Spencer on March 5, 1938 in Sheridan. He died September 19, 1990.

Cleo is survived by her two sons, James L. Spencer and his wife Nancy of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Richard A. Spencer and his wife Sue of Sheridan; and her four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place and graveside services will be held in the Bellevue Cemetery at 10:00 am on Tuesday, January 23, 2007 with Reverend David Duprey Officiating. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorials be made in Cleo’s name to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or the American Lung Association in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Savings Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 8281.

Arthur Eugene Stroup, 47, of Sheridan, passed away on Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at his residence.

Art was born on September 9, 1959 in Worland, WY to Jack T. and Anita Joy (Hoblit) Stroup. He lived most of his life near Sheridan and attended local schools including, Coffeen Elementary School, Central Jr. High School and Sheridan High School. He earned his diploma through the US Army which he enlisted in July 1977 with parental consent due to his age. He served in the special forces in the Persian Gulf, Germany, Austria, and four years in Italy. Art received a Medal of Honor for going behind enemy lines to help rescue Lt. Dozier. When he returned home from the service he had a daughter, Trisa Katherine Bucholz. He later married Patty Hyjek of Buffalo and they had three daughters, Veronique Sue, Jessica Ann, and Meghan Michelle. They lived in Loveland, CO where Art was employed as an electrician. The couple divorced in 1998. Art then returned to Sheridan to work as an electrician and in the methane fields. He was also a carrier for the Billings Gazette. Art enjoyed the mountains, being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and camping. He loved all his children and his grandson, Demyean Stroup.

Arthur was preceded in death by two brothers, Jack T. Jr, and Michael Jeffery Stroup; his grandmother, Margaret E. Stroup; and his grandfather, Eugene Hoblit. He is survived by his four daughters, Trista Bucholz, Veronique Sue Stroup, Jessica Ann Stroup, and Meghan M. Stroup; his parents, Jack Thomas Stroup and Anita Joy Cooper; his brother, Dennis Stroup; his four sisters, Debra Carter, Tia Stroup; Dawn Gudhal, and Laura Stroup; his grandmother, Inez M. Hoblit; his grandson, Demyean Stroup; and several uncles, aunts, nieces, and nephews.

A viewing will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Saturday, January 20, 2007 from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Funeral services will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Monday, January 22, 2007 at 2:00 pm with Mark Reeves, of Joy Junction Children’s Church, officiating. Cremation will follow and inurnment of cremains will be in Mount Hope Cemetery in Big Horn, WY. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Brooks D. Study, 83, of Sheridan, WY, died Wednesday, January 10, 2007 in Sheridan Manor.

Mr. Study was born October 31, 1923 in Bartlett, Iowa to John and Rosetta (Tysor) Study.  The family moved to the Bowman Hills area near Hulett, WY when he was 8 where he grew up and attended schools. 

Mr. Study went to work on the Parks Ranch around Weston, WY where he herded sheep.  He then worked on various ranches in the Weston area.  Mr. Study married Cathern Holdeman on March 21, 1949 in Sheridan.  He worked as a carpenter for a short time in Gillette, WY before returning to ranching in the Weston area.  In 1960 the Study's moved to the Sam Row Ranch near Biddle, MT.  He married Alvina Rosencranz July 31, 1989 in Miles City, MT.

Mr. Study was a county commissioner for Powder River County in Montana from 1987 to 1993.  The family moved to Broadus, MT in 1990 before moving back to Biddle.  He also had a mail route from Biddle to Alzada, MT from 1976 until 2002.  Mr. Study moved to Sheridan in 2002.

Mr. Study was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Hulett.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his two wives; two brothers; and four sisters.

He is survived by two daughters, Linda Shannon, of Big Horn, WY, and Barbara Fleck, of Glen Eden, OR; and two grandchildren.

Funeral service for Mr. Study will be 2:00 P.M. Saturday, January 13, 2007 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with Father David Duprey officiating.  Interment will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Mr. Study may be made to the Powder River Museum, Broadus, MT  59317

Betty Ann Taberna, 63, of Sheridan, WY, died Tuesday, January 16, 2007 in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Mrs. Taberna was born October 5, 1943 in Missoula, MT to A. J. and Sadie (Oatts) Morris.  She grew up and attended schools in Missoula, and graduated from Missoula High School in 1961.  Mrs. Taberna then attended the University of Montana at Missoula.

She married Louis Taberna in June of 1983 in Missoula.

Mrs. Taberna was a secretary for the Missoula Police Department.  Betty was a schoolteacher in Missoula before the couple moved to Sheridan in 1991 where she continued teaching at Sheridan High School.  She was also a councilor at the Missoula High school.

Mrs. Taberna was a member of Holy Name Catholic Church in Sheridan, and loved visiting with her friends, playing cards, but especially enjoyed being a homemaker and spending time with her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Mrs. Taberna is survived by her husband, Lou, of Sheridan, WY; one son, Don Miller, of Missoula, MT; one daughter, Kelly Ann Deniger, of Missoula, MT; one brother, Al Morris, of Salt Lake City, UT; and 2 grandchildren.

Memorial service will be 10:00 A.M. Saturday, January 20, 2007 at Holy Name Catholic Church with Father Ron Stolcis officiating.   Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Elizabeth Annie (Martin) Williamson, 81, of Sheridan, passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2007 at Sheridan Memorial Hospital in Sheridan, Wyoming following a courageous seventeen year battle with cancer.

Anne was born August 12, 1925, in Kleenburn, WY to John and Ruby Etheldo (Guy) Hallworth. She married Delbert Martin on May 27, 1942 in Hardin, MT. Shortly after her marriage she moved to Renton, WA to await Del’s return from overseas where he was serving in the Navy during WWII. White in Renton, Anne completed high school and accepted a job at an ammunition plant. Anne worked just long enough to receive word from Del that this was not an acceptable occupation. Anne was active in the Methodist Church, various sewing groups, and the Cub Scouts. In later years she became active with the Big Horn Women’s Club and the Holy Name Catholic Church. In her spare time she also enjoyed her grandchildren and their various 4-H projects. He passed away in 1997. Anne worked at Warehouse Market until her retirement. When she was sixty years old she recieved her first 4-wheelser, which she learned to riede and obtained her motorcycle license. She loved reading, camping, 4-wheeler riding, cooking, and most of all, spending time with her family.Anne was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, Del, a grandson, one brother, and four sisters. Following Del’s death, Anne joined a COPE group where she met Robert "Willie" Williamson. Anne and Willie were married in San Carlos, Mexico February 14, 1999.

She is survived by her husband, Willie of Sheridan; her four children, Delbert Gary Martin and his wife Loran of Vernal, UT, Halron Jay Martin and his wife Lois of Canon City, CO, Jeri Lynne Haugen and her husband Robert of Big Horn, WY, and Lauri Ann Onkka and her husband Herb of Sheridan; her stepchildren, Karen Nelson and her husband Kent of Helena, MT, James Williamson and his companion Marlane of Aurora, CO, Kent Williamson and his wife Dianne of Spokane, WA, Robert Williamson and his wife Shelley of Newcastle, WY, and Terry Cashell and her husband Charles of Colestrip, MT; and her nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren and numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

A Christian Wake Service will be recited at 7:00 pm on Thursday, February 1, 2007 at Kane Funeral Home. Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Name Catholic Church on Friday, February 2, 2007 at 10:30 am with The Reverend Ron Stolcis officiating. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Anne’s name to Big Horn Women’s Club or the Hematology and Oncology Centers of the Northern Rockies, in care of Tara Keep, First Federal Bank, PO Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Wilda Mae Sonneman Woods, died Sunday, January 28, 2007 in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Mrs. Woods was born December 29, 1912 in Sheridan, WY to William E. and Fern (Minster) Sonneman.  As a small girl, she moved to a ranch on Prairie Dog Creek, where she grew up with her sister, Marian, and her brother, Warren.  The children attended the Wakley School.  Wilda started school at a very early age so that she might accompany her older sister.  She was a member of the first mid-term class to graduate from the new Sheridan High School

After high school, she worked as a receptionist and secretary for Drs. Pete and Will Schunk.

On September 3, 1936, Wilda was married to Clifton A. Woods in Sheridan.  Clifton was a carpenter, and the couple began building their home at 704 Gladstone in 1937, the same year their son Darrol was born.  During World War II, the family traveled throughout the central United States as Clifton was employed doing defense construction.  He helped build the barracks at Scott Air Force Base where his son would later take training.  When the family returned to Sheridan, Clifton pursued his profession as a carpenter, while Wilda was employed at City Cleaning and Dyeing as a delivery driver.  Later, she clerked at the Post Office Grocery and a Boras Grocery, and had her own business as a seamstress.  She was extremely talented at sewing and could make anything, altering patterns as needed.  Wilda always produced a large garden, and was a voracious reader.  During these years, Wilda and Clifton were part of an archeological group that researched the Medicine Wheel.

After the death of her husband in 1976, Wilda continued living in the family home.  She became an avid quilter, completing well over a hundred tops, and attending quilting shows.  She appeared in a University of Wyoming video pertaining to folk art in Wyoming.  She knitted, crocheted, tatted, and did nearly every other kind of fancy work, all of it of excellent quality.  She began attending classes at Sheridan College in music, painting and anything else she found interesting.  She also toured with Senior Citizens across the country.

She was a long time member of the Wakley Club, having joined as a young woman on the ranch, and a member of the First Methodist Church of Sheridan.

Wilda moved to Sugarland Ridge in May of 2004.

Grateful for having shared her life are her son, Darrol Woods, of Denver, CO; one grandson; Clifton John Woods, of Denver, CO; and one nephew of Kingman, Arizona.

Funeral service for Mrs. Woods will be 2:00 P. M. Friday, February 2, 2007 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Don Derryberry officiating.  Interment will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. 

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