Scottie Lingelbach passed away peacefully on April 3, in Lawrence, Kansas, after almost 96 years of an energetic life.
She graduated from Topeka High School in 1940, and from the University of Kansas in 1944 with a Business Degree. After graduation, she enlisted in the Navy WAVES (Women Accepted for Voluntary Emergency Service), and attained the rank of Ensign.
Her experiences as a courier of Top Secret documents for the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Washington, DC during WWII were included in Tom Brokaw’s book The Greatest Generation.
In 1945, Scottie married Dale Lingelbach who later became the Vice President of Marketing for Smith Brothers Manufacturing Company (Big Smith), headquartered in Carthage, Missouri. He preceded her in death in 1967.
A longtime resident of Carthage, she was proud to have been a teacher, real estate agent, and Deacon and Elder of the First Presbyterian Church. Always a die-hard Jayhawk, in 1987 she moved to Lawrence, Kansas and became a docent at the Spencer Art Museum, Chancellor’s Club member, Williams Fund contributor, and recipient of the Mildred Clodfelter Award for her longtime KU volunteer service. She was also a member of the First United Methodist Church, PEO, Tennola Study Club, and enthusiastic patriot.
She leaves two children, two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, a niece and many friends to be inspired by her story.
A memorial service will be held on April 10, at the First United Methodist Church in Lawrence at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, please direct any donations to the First Presbyterian Church in Carthage, Missouri, or to your favorite charity, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260, Lawrence, KS 66044.
Dear Cynthia and Randy, Charlie and I were both saddened to read of your Mother’s passing. Although she moved away later in life, I remember sub-teaching while she was teaching and learned many things from her. She always had a smile on her face, and always welcomed our family into her heart. Please know that we send prayers and love during this difficult time. Annie Rogers Balfour
Dear Cynthia & Randy,
I was so sorry to read about your Mother’s death. Although I hadn’t seen her for many years, she was thought of often, and I will always have fond memories of her.
Scottie was a determined, independent, spirited woman with a bright mind and an insatiable curiosity. She remained young at heart and expressed herself forcefully her entire life. As she gained “fame” from her recognition in Tom Brokaw’s book, many sought her company. This did not fool her though she was gracious and friendly to everyone who wanted to be acknowledged by her. I cherish her example of integrity and and generosity. We did not always agree on everything, but those disagreements only enhanced our friendship. She was my PEO sister and I will always be grateful to have had her in my life.
Although I only knew Scottie a short 2 1/2 years through visiting from our church, I valued our friendship. She was a lovely lady, a strong woman, and always interested in others. I will miss our visits. You have my deepest sympathy.
Scottie was a long-time friend of my parents from their college days. They loved her enthusiasm, cheerfulness, and passion for life and its many experiences. She will be greatly missed by many whose paths she crossed.
We hosted Scottie in Vancouver WA at the reunion in about 2000 of Tom Brokaw with the WW2 people described in Tom’s “Greatest Generation” book. Scotty was an absolutely wonderful friend.
Heaven is a brighter place since Scottie’s arrival. She
will be sorely missed here on Earth .
I will miss my Jayhawk friend of so many years , but will cherish the memories of our good times over many years.
I am so sorry to hear of Scottie’s passing. She was one of a kind, and a great American.