Gladys “Mahlene” Nokes, 83, of Tonganoxie, KS passed away August 25, 2026 at Lawrence Memorial Hospital.
Mahlene was born January 16, 1943, to Mahlon and Aileen (Freeman) Cook. She was united in marriage to Orval Dwight Nokes on June 25, 1964, who preceded her in death on August 11, 2005. Mahlene was also preceded in death by her parents, her stepson Ronnie Nokes, her son-in-law Marv Hiestand and her beloved grandson Colin Bennett.
Mahlene had a passion for flowers and worked many years as a Florist, even owning her own business in Tonganoxie, Village Floral. Mahlene loved flowers but her greatest love was her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Survivors include her stepdaughter Trish Hiestand, her son Rob (Paula) Crook, her daughter Tammy (Doug) Bennett, eight grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held October 11, 2026, at Ellie B’s in Tonganoxie, KS from 3:00-5:00 p.m. for all who would like to come.
Tammy and family of Mahlene, I was shocked to read on Facebook when I got back from my California trip that Mahlene had passed on to her .next life with the Lord. She was a good friend and we had many good times together. I will not forget the gardening we did at Fallcreek Villas, and the many card games we played with other ladies at Fall Creek. She was a great lady!
With love and prayers for your loose.
So sorry for your loss. Mahlene was a very sweet lady.
To Mahlene, I’m so ashamed of myself for not coming over. You were a very special friend. I’m so sorry. To the family, I’m so sorry for your loss. I pray that God will be with you as walk through your grief. I know how much she meant to all of you. I know she’s with Colin and with Jesus!