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	OBITUARIES VISIT THE OBITUARY ARCHIVE HERE 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.

Helene A. Waddell, 95, of Sheridan, WY, died Tuesday, June 30, 2009 in Sheridan Manor.

Mrs. Waddell was born September 24, 1913 in Linwood, Nebraska to Robert and Mary ( Bobek) Franklin.  She grew up in Linwood and graduated from Linwood High School.  Mrs. Waddell came to Sheridan, WY in 1934 where she received her nurses training.

Helene married John (Fritz) Waddell in Billings, MT February 8, 1935.  The couple made their home in Sheridan, WY.  Mrs. Waddell worked at Bentley’s Clothing Store for 25 years and also was a volunteer with meals at Heritage Towers.  Mr. Waddell died February 6, 1979.

Mrs. Waddell was a member of Naomi Chapter #2, O. E. S. in Sheridan, social Order of Beauceant, and the American Legion Auxiliary.

Mrs. Waddell is survived by several nieces and nephews.

Memorial graveside service for Helene will be 10:00 A. M. Tuesday, July 7, 2009 in the Oblong Square Masonic #8 Section of the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Brian Johnson officiating.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. 

Memorials in memory of Helene may be made to the Shrine Children’s Hospital, P. O. Box K, Sheridan, WY  82801

Elenita Prunty, 90, of Sheridan, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

She was born May 12, 1919 in Clay County, Iowa to Fred Edwin and Wella Blanche (White) Anderson. Her family moved from Iowa to Jaroso, CO when she was six years of age.

Elenita attended grade school in Jaroso and graduated from high school at Campion Academy in Loveland, CO in 1937. She attended Union College in Lincoln, NE. Elenita earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Primary Education from Adams State College in Alamosa, CO in 1952 and her Masters of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Adams State College in 1966. She began teaching school in 1950, and in 1964 began a career in the Alamosa School System, teaching 2nd and 3rd grade students until her retirement in 1985.

Elenita married George W. Prunty in Jaroso on July 26, 1942. Her hobbies/interests include touring here and abroad, fall leaves, gardening, yard work, sewing, needlepoint, church activities, teaching Sabbath School, church records, walking, continuing her education, crossword puzzles, and playing games.

Elenita was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Alamosa and a member of the National Teacher’s Association.

Elenita is survived by her son, Fred C. (Sandy) Prunty of Sheridan, WY; her daughter, Evelyn B. (Duane) Smith of Newmarket, NH; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, an infant son, her parents, a sister, brother, and one granddaughter.

Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on July 31, 2009 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 313 Craft Drive, Alamosa, CO. Kane Funeral Home handled local arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Elenita’s name to the Alamosa SDA Church School, 313Craft Drive, Alamosa, CO 81101.

Thomas Norbert Anderson, 50, of Sheridan, WY, died Thursday, June 18, 2009 in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Thomas was born February 28, 1959 in Antigo, Wisconsin to Norbert and Mary (Zuehlke) Anderson.  He grew up and attended Polar Grade School and graduated from Antigo High School in Antigo. 

Mr. Anderson had been a driver for U. P. S. for the past 16 years.

Thomas enjoyed hunting, fishing, and hiking in the mountains.

He was preceded in death by his father, and one brother.

Thomas is survived by one son, Austin Anderson, of Sheridan, WY; three brothers, Robert Anderson, of Mattoom, Wisconsin, Andrew Anderson, of Billings, Montana, and Eric Anderson, of Ranchester, Wyoming; and three sisters, Sue Krueger, of Rhinelander, Wisconsin, Jo Hoeft, of Little Falls, Minnesota, and Merry Lee Bishop, of Banner, Wyoming. 

James L. Robinson, 52, of Sheridan, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2009 at Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

James was born on May 20, 1957 in Pueblo, CO to Dick and Norma Robinson. The family moved to Sheridan where James went to school. He attended the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy. He went to work as a Sheridan County Sheriff’s Deputy then as a police officer with the Sheridan VA Medical Center and was an Information Security Officer at the time of his death. James had a passion for flying and as a teenager obtained his pilot license and later build and flew RC planes. He was a motorcycle enthusiast and was a past member of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association and the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club. James married Christie Haworth in Sheridan on June 28, 1982. He loved a good auction, hunting, fishing, boating, and camping, especially in the Big Horn Mountains. James was a technology junkie and was always up to date on computers and other electronic devices. He had a soft spot for dogs, especially his minpins.

James was preceded in death by his father; and a sister, Susan Robinson. He is survived by his wife, Christie, of Sheridan; a son, James C. Robinson, of Boulder, CO; and his mother, Norma Robinson, of Sheridan.

Per James’ request cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at the Sheridan VA Medical Center Chapel on Monday, July 6, 2009 at 11:00 a.m with Chaplin Arden Haeffner officiating. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in James’ name to the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Rd, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Dorothy W. Bartholme, 85, of Sheridan, passed away on June 25, 2009 at Westview Health Care Center.

Dorothy was born on June 29, 1923 in Willard, New Mexico to George and Beulah Worley. She was Valedictorian of her senior graduating class of Central Baptist School in Clovis, NM. After high school she worked as a police dispatcher. On March 22, 1947 she wed John Bartholme in Clovis, NM and were blessed with three children. Shortly after their marriage she and John moved to Steamboat Springs, CO, where Dorothy’s "claim to fame" was driving an 18-wheeler over Rabbit Ears Pass. They eventually made their home in Commerce City, CO where they both worked full time and raised their family. They were founders of the Metropolitan Troupers, a group of young people with an array of talents that brought variety entertainment shows into hospitals, nursing homes, military bases, missions and shelters, and anywhere else their presence was requested, throughout the Denver Metro area. After John passed away on April 19, 1990, Dorothy eventually relocated to Douglas, WY to be near family, and lived there for eight years. In September 2008 she moved to Westview Health Care Center following her family’s move to the Sheridan area, where she resided until the time of her death. She enjoyed watching pro-football, especially the Denver Broncos. Dorothy also enjoyed trips with her family to Blackhawk and Central City, CO to play the nickel slot machines. She loved spending time with her family and enjoyed going shopping and out to lunch with her family and friends and playing cards and dominoes with them. Dorothy never met a stranger, and she will always be remembered for her kind heart, loving ways, cheerful disposition, and positive outlook.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two brothers; and two sisters. She is survived by her daughters, Carolyn J. Bartholme of WY, Janice D. Sullivan of CO, and Lynda Green, and her husband, Jeff, of WY; her four grandchildren, Kara Sullivan of UT, Christopher and Andrea Sullivan, both of CO, and Caleb Green of WY; her great-grandchild, Haylee L. Sullivan of CO; her sister, Lawanda Frakes, and her husband Charles, of Clovis, NM; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life for Dorothy will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2009 from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm at the Douglas Community Club, 64 Golf Course Rd., Douglas, WY. Interment will be at Dellview Cemetery in Manville, WY at a later date in a private family service. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Contributions may be made in Dorothy’s memory to UNITY, 1901 NW Blue Parkway, Unity Village, MO 64065-0001.

Lois E. Folkins, 100, of Sheridan, WY died Tuesday, June 23, 2009, in Sheridan Manor.

Lois was born March 13, 1909, in McClusky, N. Dakota to Charles & Thea (Olson) Peterson.

Lois grew up on the family farm and graduated from McClusky High School.  She graduated from Valley City Teachers College and taught elementary school for several years.  She married Harold Folkins July 2, 1931 in McClusky.  They lived in several places in N. Dakota until settling in Sheridan in 1962.  She worked for Carl’s IGA for several years.  She was a long time member of Trinity Lutheran Church were she was active in Circle Two and the Service Group as well as being a member of Beauceant.  Lois enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting.

Lois was preceded in death by her husband Harold in 1999.

Lois is survived by her sons Calvin of Story, WY, Carlyle of Sacramento, CA and Cleon of Spokane, WA; five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 11:00am on Thursday (July 2nd) from Trinity Lutheran Church with the Rev. Philip Wold officiating.  Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials may benefit Trinity Lutheran Church.

Cecil W. “Pee Wee” Parsons, 96, of Sheridan, WY, died Saturday, June 20, 2009 in the Sheridan V. A. Medical Center.

Mr. Parsons was born February 28, 1913 in Hobson, Montana to Roy E. and Mattie D. (Bennett) Parsons.  In his younger years he attended schools in Hobson and Columbus, Montana. The family moved to Torrington, Wyoming where Cecil graduated from Torrington High School.

Mr. Parsons was in the U. S. Army during World War II where he saw combat in Germany while serving in the Artillery and the Engineers. 

Cecil married Nelda Mitchell in Sheridan, Wyoming in 1935.  They were later divorced.  He then married Eva Drobish in Sheridan, who preceded him in death.  Cecil married Rose M. Badgett in Sheridan in 1987, and she preceded him in death in 2008.

Mr. Parsons worked in the C.C.C.’s helping to build the Dayton-Kane Road over the Big Horn Mountains.  Cecil then ranched in Idaho and Montana.  He was a steel worker in Seattle before spending many months in Greenland reclaiming an air base.  Mr. Parsons then went to work at the Sheridan V. A. Medical Center where he worked until his retirement. 

Cecil enjoyed playing the trumpet, wind instruments, fishing, hunting, dancing, photography, and home movies.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wives; one daughter; and one great grandson.

Mr. Parsons is survived by one son, Robert L. Parsons, of Libby, Montana; one daughter, Carole A. Wright, of Troy, Montana; one sister, Daisy M. Bush, of Jackson Hole, Wyoming; 5 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren.

Memorial services for Cecil will be 10:00 A.M., Thursday, July 2, 2009 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with Rev. Bob Miller officiating.  Inurnment of cremains will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #7 and the Wyoming National Guard..  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. 

Thelma O. Bent, 81, of Sheridan died Monday, June 22, 2009 in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.

Funeral service is 10 am Friday, June 26th at St. Peter's Episcopal Church with the Reverend Kevin Jones officiating. Burial will be in the Elks section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Mrs. Bent was born March 31, 1928 in Missouri. Adopted at age 5 by EM and Ida May (Stanley) Oliver, she grew up and attended schools in Cheyenne, then attended the University of Wyoming for three years. During college, she worked for the Department of Health and United Airlines in Cheyenne.

She married Roger S. Bent on June 13, 1950 in Fort Collins, CO. Mrs. Bent was a homemaker and also worked for Sheridan School District 2 as a librarian and a teacher's aide at Coffeen Elementary School. She was president of the Sheridan Junior Women's Club from 1960 to 1961, a member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO) for 62 years, a Girl Scout leader in the 1960's and a longtime member of the Story Garden Club.

She enjoyed playing bridge, working on crafts and spending time with her family.

Susvivors include her husband; a son, Roger M. Bent of Sheridan; two daughters, Mary Carroll and Carol Daughty, both of Sheridan; and one granddaughter.

Memorials may benefit the Story Branch Library.

Betty June Lanning, 79, or Buffalo died Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at Amie Holt Care Center in Buffalo.

Visitation is from 1-9 pm Friday, June 26th and 8 am - 1 pm Saturday, June 27th, followed by funeral service at 2 pm at Adams Funeral Home Chapel in Buffalo, with Pastor Joe Jarvis officiating. BUrial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with graveside services.

Memorials may benefit Community Resource Center or Life LIne c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Avenue, Buffalo, WY 82834

Florence E. Taylor, 86, of Sheridan, passed away at Sheridan Manor, on Sunday, June 21, 2009.

Florence was born on may 19, 1923 in San Jose, CA to John and Leah Ann Black. She married Marvin E. Taylor, Sr. on December 27, 1958. She loved crocheting and playing BINGO at the Senior Center in Stockton, CA where she resided for more than seventy years prior to moving to Sheridan six years ago. She had a great love for cats and dolls.

Florence was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin; She is survived by her daughter, Linda Laird and her life-partner, David Dickson, of Sheridan; step-sons, Marvin Taylor, Jr, of Modesto, CA, Leroy Taylor, of Lodi, CA, and Michael Taylor; grandchildren, Rodney Laird, Jr. and his wife, Jolene, and Robert Laird and his wife, Deanna; step-grandchildren, Eric Dickson and his wife, Mirranda, Jeremy Dickson, Leslie Pope-Laird, Richard Baldo and his wife, Felicia, and Scotty Taylor; twelve great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Christine Black; and three nieces and three nephews.

A viewing will be held on at Kane Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 24, 2009 and Thursday, June 25, 2009 from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm on both days. Funeral services will be held at a later date in Stockton, CA with interment in the Stockton Rural Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.

Donald N. Warner, of Lovell, WY, passed away at Westview Healthcare Center on Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at the age of 70.

Don was born in Iowa on August 12, 1938. He worked as a heavy equipment operator and was a member of the Methodist Church. Don will be missed by a lot of good friends in the Lovell area.

Graveside services will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with Wes Worden officiating. Kane Funeral Home, of Sheridan, is handling the arrangements.

Catherine C. Brownell Porter, 85, of Sheridan, WY died Friday, June 19, 2009, in Westview Heath Care Center, Sheridan.

Catherine was born July 23, 1923, in Lincoln, Kansas to Charles & Ella (Linker) Chase.

After graduation from Manual Art High School in Los Angeles, CA, Catherine worked for the Bank of America until she married Lenard M. Brownell on December 19, 1944.  They came to Sheridan in 1945 after her husband was discharged fro the Army Air Force.  Catherine worked for Forrest Ralston as secretary and office manager until 1965.  They then moved to New Hampshire for six years returning to the Sheridan area and making their home in Wyarno until Lenard died in 1982.  On February 19, 1983, Catherine married William Porter, Sr. in Del Mar, CA.  They made their home in Sheridan.  Catherine was a member of The Book Review Club, Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and Holy Name Catholic Church.

Catherine was also preceded in death by her parents, brother Dr. Charles Chase and sister Peggy Ann Doran.

Catherine is survived by her husband William Porter, Sr. of Sheridan; son Robert Brownell of Wyarno, WY; step sons William Porter, II of Sheridan and Richard Porter of Denver, CO; sister Carol Gstettenbaur of Ventura, CA; two grandchildren; a step grandson; and two great grandchildren.

Funeral liturgy will be 10:00am on Tuesday (June 23rd) 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 Holy Name School, 9 S. Conner St., Sheridan or Whedon Cancer Foundation, 30 S. Scott St., Sheridan, WY  82801.

Dr. Paul Pettit, 78, formerly of Sheridan, passed away in Coronado, CA on Sunday, June 14, 2009.

Dr. Pettit was born in Everett, WA on September 21, 1930 to Harry and Edna Pettit. He was in the Army Medical Co. And served from 1956 until his honorable discharge in 1962. He married Rosemary Bumbaca on January 20, 1951 in Omaha, NE. In 1991 and 2002 Dr. Pettit was named Yatch’s Man Of The Year in San Diego, CA. He was Boy Scout of the year and Eagle Scout. Dr. Pettit was a Family Practice and Urgent Care/Emergency physician and, at one time, worked with alcoholic Indians in Wyoming. He also worked for Southern Pacific Railroad Company. He was a member of the NRA and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and log racing, and in 2002 won the NAI (North American Invitational) Predicted Log Race, won two previous NAI races, and won the SDCA Predicted Log Race for fourteen years.

Dr. Pettit was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Rosemary, of Coronado, CA; his children, Susan Pettit of Coronado, CA, Paul D. Pettit, M.D. of Jacksonville, FL, and Rosemary Tres of Glendale, AZ; and ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Private family services will be held. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorials be made in Dr. Pettit’s name to American Cancer Society Research, 907 N. Poplar Ave., Suite 185, Casper, WY 82601.

Florence Paulsen, 92, of Sheridan, passed away at Sheridan Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, June 17, 2009.

Florence was born August 26, 1916. As a young girl she traveled with her family from Illinois to Decker, Montana, where they homesteaded. On December 23, 1939 she married Joe Paulsen. Joe and Florence spent most of their lives ranching in southern Montana and also owned two businesses. They shared their life together raising five children until Joe passed away in 1983. Florence cooked at the Elks Club, Sheridan Inn, and the VA. Family was everything to Florence and she will be greatly missed.

Florence was preceded in death by one son, Joe; three brothers; and two sisters. She is survived by her daughters, Darlene Worden and Faye Oneyear, both of Sheridan and Dorothy Green of Aberdeen, MT; and her son, Doug Paulsen, of Aberdeen, MT. In addition, she is survived by granddaughters, Lorna Dixon of Leesburg, FL, Darla Worden of Jackson, WY, Kathy Wirth of Billings, MT, Lisa Oneyear of Sheridan, and Debbie Golden of Gillette, WY; grandsons, Wes Worden of Sheridan, Mike Green of Tucson, AZ, and Hoop Paulsen of Mesa, AZ; and great-granddaughters, Sydney Worden of Sheridan, Anna Skrabacz of Jackson, Tara and Ashley Golden of Gillette, WY, Madisyn Oneyear of Sheridan, Kelea Paulsen of Mesa, AZ, and Melissa Wirth of Billings, MT; great-grandsons, Michael Wirth of Billings, MT and Trey Paulsen of Mesa, AZ; a brother, Virgil Horsley, of Sheridan; and a sister, Dorothy Maloney, of Sheridan.

Funeral services will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Monday, June 22, 2009 at 10:00 am with Pastor Doug Goodwin officiating. Interment will follow in the Sheridan Elks Cemetery. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.

Ana Olson, 18, daughter of Terry and Remelle Olson of Parkman, sister of Deni Olson, passed away June 12, 2009 from complications after heart surgery.

Ana (Ana Ivanovna Kusmina) was born in Perm, Russia on November 8, 1990 and adopted by the Olsons on May 23, 2000, and her life began in Wyoming.

Ana was a life-long Girl Scout, active in 4-H, an excellent student, an incredible sister and a joy to everyone who met her. She loved her family, horses, dogs and cat, and even her 4-H pigs. She enjoyed the outdoors, and loved school and being around her teachers and schoolmates. Ana never met a person who wasn’t a friend. She had a great sense of humor and loved to tell long, long stories. Her unquenchable joy of life and perpetual optimism inspired other students to keep trying and to look on the bright side. She was looking forward to her Senior year at Tongue River High School.

She loved and took care of everybody which may have been her inspiration for wanting to become a nurse. She was particularly protective of her younger brother, Deni , who was adopted two years after her. She wanted nothing more than to make her family proud, and she always managed to succeed.

Ana was committed to the Lord. She was determined to share her faith with her friends, speaking out when other students may not have been as courageous. She was a gift to all who knew her.

She is survived by her parents, Terry and Remelle Olson, her brother, Deni, her Grandparents, Umma and David, Meena and Tim, and Wally and Betty. Her Aunts and Uncles, Rene and Chad, Cheri and Chris, Bill and Kelly, Ana and Andy, Steve and Dana, and Matthew. Cousins, Joe and Alex, Taao, Tarin, and Tanner, Addy, Jordan and Enne, and Asher. She will be missed by her friends, volleyball team mates, Girl School Troop, 4H Club, teachers, and church members.

A celebration of Ana’s life will take place at the Cornerstone Church on Thursday, June 18 at 10:00. Memorials may be made to the Dog and Cat Shelter in Sheridan in Ana’s memory. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

David John Taberna, 54, of Sheridan, WY died Friday, June 12, 2009, in his Sheridan home.

Dave was born to Louis and Dorothy Taberna in Denver, Colorado on October 3, 1954.

He and his family moved to Missoula, Montana in 1965. He attended Hellgate High School until joining the United States Navy in 1972 where he was honorably discharged in 1975. He attended Northern Montana College in Havre and received his A&P Mechanics Certification from Cheyenne Aerotech. Dave was a familiar face at the University of Montana as the custodial supervisor of the UC Building for ten years. Dave moved to Sheridan, Wyoming in the spring of 2007. 

Dave is survived by his father, Lou of Sheridan; his mother, Dorothy of Missoula; sister, Debra of Sparks, Nevada; brothers, Chris and Tom of Missoula; sons, Jim and Tyler of Culbertson, Montana; daughter, Jamie of Cheyenne, Wyoming and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dave will always be remembered by friends and family alike for his quick wit and infectious laugh that brought joy and happiness to those around him.  He was best known for his big heart and loving spirit. He was always available to not only listen but to truly hear those who needed someone to talk to.  He made everyone feel loved and cared for.
Dave gave everything to his family and friends and saved very little for himself.  To him, the belief in a higher power was more important than the name you gave it. He cherished his family and felt only blessings for having had them in his life.  The closeness of his family was important to Dave and he never failed to express those feelings to those he loved. He led us all by the example he set in compassion, empathy, tolerance, and unconditional love. Dave will be greatly missed by all and remembered forever.

Memorial service will be at a later date.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Genevieve L. Cowan, 74, of Sheridan, died Thursday June 11, 2009 at her residence. A celebration of life was attended by friends and family on Tuesday, June 16 at the family home. Born May 2, 1935, in Heppner , Oregon to Elbert L. Cox and Oma J. Bennett, she completed high school and worked for many years as a CNA. She was married to Ronald J. Cowan in Reno, Nevada. Genevieve enjoyed the outdoors, spending time fishing, camping, traveling, gardening and reading. Her friends and family were a cherished part of her life, and she leaves four children, 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Memorials may be sent in her name to the Sheridan Cat and Dog Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan WY 82801.

Anne Pauline (Legerski) Aksamit, 89, of Ranchester, died Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Rosary is at 7 p.m. on Sunday, June 14 at Kane Funeral Home. Memorial Mass will be 10 a.m. Monday, June 15 at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Rev. Ron Stolcis officiating. Born June 12, 1919, in Kooi, Wyoming to John and Anna (Ligocki) Legerski, she attended public school through the 8th grade and wed Sylvester (Cecil) Aksamit at Saint Thomas Catholic Church on Feb. 19, 1939. She was a long time resident of Ranchester and greatly enjoyed camping at South Tongue in the Big Horn Mountains. As a successful homemaker, her life was filled with baking and cooking, family dinners, gardening, embroidering, and serving at the school cafeteria. She was preceeded in death by her husband, four brothers and a sister, son-in-law Dan Carlat, and grandson Kevin Kuzara. Survivors include sons Richard (Lela) Aksamit of Washington, Ronald (Linda) Aksamit of Ranchester, Gene (Margaret) Aksamit of Colorado, David Aksamit of Dayton and daughters Cecilia (Dick) Kuzara of Sheridan and Linda Carlat of Buffalo. Memorials may be sent to the Tongue River Valley Community Center (TRVCC), PO Box 792, Ranchester WY 82839. For more information call 655-9191.

Michael H. Kobielusz, 37, of Sheridan, WY died Wednesday, June 10, 2009, in his Sheridan home.

Mike was born October 16, 1971, in Wheatridge, CO to Gary & Cynthia (Kunesh) Kobielusz.

The family moved to Sheridan when he was a small child.  Mike grew up and graduated from high school in Sheridan.  He worked several jobs until going to work for the Wyo. Hiway Dept. in 2002.  Mike loved spending time with his son and enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding motorcycles.  He attended First Christian Church. 

Mike was preceded in death by his father.

Mike is survived by his son Jordan of Carbondale, CO; mother Cynthia Purcella; sister Kara Schreibeis; grandparents Howard & Joan Kunesh and John T. Kobielusz and one niece all of Sheridan.

Memorial service will be 10:00am on Monday (June 15th) from Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Douglas Goodwin officiating.  Inurnment of cremains will be later in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials may benefit Michael Kobielusz’s son’s education fund, in care of Kara Schreibeis, Security State Bank, 2070 Coffeen Ave., Sheridan, WY  82801.

Janet Breford, 83, of Sheridan, Wyoming, passed away at Memorial Hospital of Sheridan County, on June 8, 2009. She is survived by her daughter, Pam McClure of Sheridan. Cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.

Kane Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Catherine C. Rene Adams, 77, of Big Horn passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2009 at her home. Per her request, cremation has taken place and the family will have a private burial. Rosary will be said on Tuesday, June 9, 2009, at 7:00 pm at Kane Funeral Home. Memorial Mass will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at 10:00am at Holy Name Catholic Church with Father Ron Stolcis officiating.

Catherine was born July 16, 1931, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, to Giovanna (Casseta) and Ludovico Bottos. She attended grade school at St. Martin’s and a vocational high school. Following high school, she entered a 3 year nurses training school at McKellar Memorial Hospital in Fort Williams, Ontario, graduating in 1952. She spent several years in northern parts of Canada, nursing in outpost hospitals for the Ontario Red Cross and the Department of National Health and Welfare. Upon graduation from a medical technology program in 1965, she returned north to Prince Rupert, B.C., where she met her husband Randy Adams of Dayton, Wyoming. They were married in Sheridan, Wyoming, on July 21, 1967.

She was an avid curler on the Dawson City, Yukon Territory team for several years and received several trophies. She resided in British Columbia for two years and then Nooksack, Washington for eight years. She and Randy finally made Big Horn, Wyoming, their permanent home in 1977. She was very proud to become an American citizen October 21, 2002.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Randy Adams, her parents and a sister. She is survived by her daughter Becky Husske (Gary), two grandchildren, her sisters, Wilma Sekwich and Elsie Matis of Thunder Bay, Ontario and numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her good friends, Mary Sommers of Colstrip, Montana, and Cathy Faass of Big Horn, Wyoming.

Catherine was a lifetime member of the Big Horn Women’s Club and was President of this organization from 2003 - 2007. She was a member of the Big Horn City Historical Society, Backyard Habitat, and annually assisted Sheridan County Community Health with the flu shot clinics, and she was an active member and volunteer of Holy Name Catholic Church. Her hobbies were painting (oil, acrylic, watercolor), growing wildflowers, knitting, gardening, cards, board games, and feeding wildlife. Family and friends were always welcome to her home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Big Horn Women’s Club, PO Box 151, Big Horn, WY 82833, or the charity of the donor’s choice.

Kane Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Robert W. Hunter, 85, of Sheridan, passed away at the Sheridan VA Medical Center on May 28, 2009.

Bob was born on June 21, 1923 in Los Angeles, CA to Robert and Marjorie Hunter. He enlisted in the Army in 1943 and served until his honorable discharge in 1946. As a young man played the flute and continued playing during his school years as well as for a short time while in the Army. He had great architectural abilities so it wasn’t surprising that after his time in the service Bob attended college and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. He married Deo Wilcox in 1947, the two were married for forty-three years when she passed away in 1991. Along with his passion for architecture Bob started his own cattle business and raised angus bulls (which he completely enjoyed). Bob married Docia Carroll in Hardin, MT on July 30, 1993 and they enjoyed the past fifteen years of their lives together. He loved children and people in general.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Deo Hunter. He is survived by his wife, Docia, of Sheridan; sons, Harlan Hunter, of Shelton, CT and Warren Hunter, of Pamona, CA; six step-children; 1 granddaughter and 1 great-grandson; fourteen step-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren; and sister, Bethany Hunter, of Sheridan.

Memorial services will be held at the Sheridan Wesleyan Church on Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. with Chuck Lucas officiating. A reception will follow in the church parish hall.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorials be made in Robert’s name to Vision Beyond Borders, PO Box 6770, Sheridan, WY 82801 or to the Sheridan Wesleyan Church Building Fund, 404 W. Brundage Lane, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Per Richard’s request cremation has taken place and services are pending. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Darwin Darrell "Scotty" Scott, 69, of Ranchester, passed away at Sheridan Memorial Hospital on June 4, 2009.

Scotty was born December 25, 1939 in North Platte, Nebraska. He was raised there and in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He married Barbara Howe and later divorced. He married Karen Kukuchka on January 28, 1967 in Greeley, Colorado. HE loved his family, four wheeling, snow machining, and his two pups, Abby and Mia. He worked for Reiman Corporation out of Cheyenne for forty-eight years building bridges, which was something he dearly loved. He was fun-loving, a real joker , and a jolly guy to all who knew him.

Scotty was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Beverly, Thelma, and twin Darlene; and brothers, Leroy and Darrell. He is survived by his wife, Karen, of forty-two years; daughters, Christine Erickson, of Cheyenne, WY, Diane White, of Portland, OR, and Cindy Wilson, of Cody, WY; sons, Daniel Scott, of Cheyenne, WY and David Scott, of Portland, OR; and ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place. Kane Funeral home was entrusted with arrangements.

Memorials may be sent to the Tongue River Valley Community Center.

Grace Elizabeth (Murphy) (Ferguson) Bonner, 88, of Sheridan, WY, died Monday, June 1, 2009 in Sheridan Manor.

Mrs. Bonner was born August 17, 1920 in Agate, Nebraska to William Henry and Pearl Elizabeth (Kinner) Murphy.  She grew up and attended schools in Torrington, WY and graduated from Torrington High School.

Mrs. Bonner married Lloyd Ferguson in 1941, and then married Harry Bonner in 1948.  She was a retired bookkeeper from Mountain Bell.

Grace was a member of the Rebecca Lodge, and enjoyed cooking, bowling, and dancing.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her two husbands; two sisters; one brother; one step-son; and two grandchildren.

Mrs. Bonner is survived by two sons, William G. Ferguson, (Carmelita), and Harry E. Bonner, (Sandi), both of Sheridan, WY; one brother, Terry Murphy; 7 grandchildren; and 12 great grandchildren.

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

Memorials in memory of Mrs. Bonner may be made to Sheridan Manor, 1851 Big Horn Ave., Sheridan, WY  82801

John Legerski, Jr., 92, of Sheridan, WY died Monday, June 1, 2009 at Sheridan County Memorial Hospital with family at his side.

John was born February 27, 1917 in Kleenburn, Wyoming to John Legerski, Sr. and Julia (Antonova) Legerski.  He grew up on the family ranch at Kruse Creek east of Big Horn, Wyoming.  He attended elementary and high school at Big Horn.  He married Nina Mae Scott, the light of is life, on January 18, 1941 at Hardin Montana.

John worked at various jobs, including as a cowboy at local ranches, as a heavy equipment mechanic at Peter Kiewit’s, before joining the Army during World War II.  He was assigned to and trained with the 1269th Combat Engineers at Camp Chafee, Arkansas and Fort Knox, Kentucky.  The 1269th then embarked from New York City to Marseilles, France.  He was wounded in Nice, France and was hospitalized for 100 days.  Afterward, he rejoined his outfit, which battled their way through the French Alps into southern Germany.  The 1269th engineers were the first contingent of soldiers to enter the Dachau Death Camp which John described as horrific.  John returned home to his family from the war in February, 1946.  In 1951 John joined his brother Joe as an owner of the historical Brown Palace Bar which they operated for the next thirty years until their retirement. 

He was proceeded in death by his grandson, Brice Crosby Legerski; his parents; brothers Joseph C., Rudy R., and Edward; and sisters Mary Haratyk and Julia Yazoski; a niece, Michelle Legerski Schleyer; and nephews Edward Kilmarx III, Gregory Legerski and John Haratyk.

John is survived by his loving wife Nina, three children, Colleen Ann Bushmaker, Floyd Legerski and Randy John Legerski; three grandchildren Keri R. Legerski, Tamara Houghton, and Scott Bushmaker; four great grandchildren, and one great-great grandson; four brothers and one sister, Andrew, Walter, William, Louis, and Alma Kilmarx.

John had a great sense of humor and loved telling stories about his family and his life in Sheridan.  He would often reminisce about his remarkable war experiences.  John was an outdoorsman who loved the Big Horn Mountains and called Sheridan “God’s Country”.  He was truly a member of Tom Brokow’s “The Greatest Generation”.  He will be greatly missed.

A rosary service will be held Friday evening, June 5, at 7:00 P. M. at Champion Ferries Funeral Home.  The funeral mass will be held Saturday morning at 10:00 A. M. at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Father Ronald Stolcis as Celebrant.  Interment will be in the Elk’s Section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. 

Memorials in memory of Mr. Legerski may be made to the Holy Name School Fund, or to the Sheridan Senior Citizen’s Center.

Jeannette Ann Barton, 69, of Sheridan, WY, died Thursday, May 21, 2009 in Seattle, Washington.

Mrs. Barton was born November 3, 1939 in Sheridan, Wyoming to Walter and Avis Maxine (Barber) Grubb.  She grew up in the Sheridan and Arvada area and attended Arvada schools.

Jeannette married Elmer J. Barton in Sheridan on September 2, 1956.  She was a farm wife, teacher’s aide, and school secretary at Highland Park Elementary School for 23 years.

Jeannette enjoyed traveling and going to casinos, crocheting, needlework, and her cats.  She especially enjoyed her years as a young wife and mother on the family ranch near Arvada.  Her greatest joy was spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren.

Mrs. Barton was preceded in death by her parents; a twin sister, Jeanne; and one brother, Walter “Bud” Grubb.

She is survived by her husband, Elmer, of Sheridan, WY; one son, Fred M. Barton, of Sheridan, WY; one daughter, Lynne M. Barton-Fulfs, and husband, Duane, of Arlington, Washington; one sister, Marilyn White, of Spring, Texas; 6 grandchildren, Austin Barton, Amy (Barton) Herring, and husband, Sam; Morgen Chase, Toby Walberg, Tucker Chase, and Drew Chase; 3 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.  She was adored by her family.

Visitation for Mrs. Barton will be from 4:00 P. M. to 6:00 P. M. Thursday, May 28, 2009 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be 2:00 P. M. Friday, May 29, 2009 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Douglas Goodwin officiating.  Interment will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Katherine L. Kukuchka, 87, of Ranchester, WY, died Monday, May 25, 2009 in Sheridan Manor.

Mrs. Kukuchka was born June 7, 1921 in Kooi, Wyoming to Frank and Mary (Soltis) Kawulok, Sr.  She grew up in Kooi and on the family ranch on Wolf Creek and attended Englefield and Monarch schools.

Katherine married Karl Kukuchka in Monarch, Wyoming on September 14, 1941.  She lived on the family ranch on Wolf Creek helping her mother and father during World War II while her husband served in the military.  During that time, she traveled to Texas by bus to spend a month with Karl before coming back to continue working and staying on the ranch.

Later, she and her husband moved west of Ranchester before moving into the town of Ranchester in 1949 with their two children.  They built a new house next to their old one and moved into it in 1973.  Kay continued living at her present residence after her husband, Karl, died in August of 1990.  In 2008 she started living with her children.

Mrs. Kukuchka was a member of Saint Edmunds Catholic Church in Ranchester, and the Sheridan Elk’s Auxiliary. 

She enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking, family dinners, and spending time in the Big Horn Mountains.  Katherine especially enjoyed spending time with her family.

Katherine was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; two brothers; and one sister.

She is survived by one son, Karl Kukuchka, of Dayton, WY; one daughter, Karen Scott, of Ranchester, WY; one brother, Walter Raymond Kawulok, of Ranchester, WY; four sisters, Mary Wolney, of Sheridan, WY, Anne Kettley, of Sheridan, WY, Dorothy Williams, of Sheridan, WY, and Jeanette Bauder, of Davenport, Iowa; 4 grandchildren; and 6 great grandchildren.

Vigil service for Mrs. Kukuchka will be 7:00 P.M. Friday, May 29, 2009 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home.  Funeral Liturgy will be 10:00 Saturday, May 30, 2009 at Holy name Catholic Church with Father Ron Stolcis as Celebrant.  Interment will be in the Elk’s Section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Donovan D. McKennan, 78, of Sheridan, WY, died Tuesday, May 19, 2009 in Sheridan Manor.

Don was a Wyoming native and enjoyed spending time in the Big Horn Mountains fishing and camping.  He was a creative artist—painting portraits or landscapes, carving wood or carpentry.

Don proudly served 2 tours of duty in Korea in the 2nd Infantry Division from 1948 to 1957 and settled back in Sheridan. 

He married Billie Jo Ross in 1959 and later divorced.  He was employed at the Sheridan V. A. Hospital, Meade Creek Ranch and the WYO Theatre, and later retired.

Don was preceded in death by his mother, Hazel McKennan, and sister, Betty Carter, and his son, Terry D. McKennan.

He is survived by two daughters, Kelly Long, of Sheridan, WY, and Tamara Perrin, of Loveland, CO; stepson, Billy Maddox, of Gardner, MT, two sisters, Mary (Jim) Harrison, of Seattle, WA, and Wilma Parker, of Seattle, WA; 6 grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews.

His family will miss his humor, philosophical laments and his rugged charm.

Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be held 2:00 P. M. Tuesday, May 26, 2009 in the Sheridan V. A. Chapel, 1989 Fort Road with Chaplain Harden Haeffner officiating.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of D

on may be made to the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 E. Ridge Rd., Sheridan ,WY  82801

Anne Banas Kilgore, 81, of Sheridan, WY, died Sunday, May 17, 2009 in Sheridan Manor with her daughter, Shari, by her side.

Anne was born on March 30, 1928 to Dorothy and Michael Banas in Dietz, WY.  Her mother died when she was an infant.  Anne was blessed to be raised by Anna and Paul Wallach, and had a very special love for them.

Anne was married to Walt Washut.  She possessed a unique talent and interest in home planning and decorating, and was invited to act as a delegate to McCall’s “Women’s Congress on Better Living,” in 1957.  While in Sheridan, she worked at Memorial Hospital.

Anne married Bill Kilgore in 1967 and lived in South Dakota and Colorado.  While in Denver, she was employed with Presbyterian Hospital and the National Park Service, enjoying many friendships.

Anne, or as her childhood friends called her, “Anna Banana”, loved gardening, flowers, and her pet companion cats.  She was creative and imaginative, and a talented artist.  Anne’s artwork was extraordinary and she maintained a daily journal, over the past nineteen years.  Her cherished journals are a living memorial for her family. 

Anne was preceded in death by Walt Washut, her parents, Anna and Paul Wallach and Dorothy and Mike Banas, her infant sister, Dorothy, brothers George and Mike Banas.

She is survived by her daughters, Toots Washut Taszut (Bill Blackburn), of Bozeman, Shari Washut Thompson (Dwight), of Sheridan, sister Anne Aksamit, of Sheridan, and grandsons, Jeremy Schenfeld, of Denver, Korey Washut, of Denver, and Kyler Washut, of Sheridan.  She is also survived by great grandchildren, Kyanne, Alexis, Shaylen, Jacey, Chase, Keely, and Lukas, and Anne’s close and dear friends. 

At her request, no services are planned.  Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.